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This is my timeline in full. It starts off pretty slow but picks up pace after the Clan War
So ask yourself...
What if History went a little different...
3040
Cyclops, Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser
Unexplored Deep Periphery System
96 Light-years Core-ward Cirincus Federation
14th August 3040
Exploring deep space was part of parcel with being part of ComStar’s Explorer Corps some of the things that were found in deep space were amazing and some finds were so much different from others. Captain Isabelle Cain had been a merchant JumpShip Captain once upon a time but ComStar had bought her JumpShip and her service, she’d begun serving as a Explorer Corps officer commanding the Merchant-class JumpShip, Spirit of the Periphery, and a ComGuard Union-class DropShip, the Blessed Mission, with one spare Docking Port for a civilian DropShip which would help the JumpShip blend in as a regular vessel prowling the space lanes. Luckily for them on this particular jump they were not transporting a civilian vessel on this mission and they could keep this find a secret for ComStar‘s eyes only.
The Spirit of the Periphery had jumped into the system with the Blessed Mission attached and almost immediately been surrounded by small craft, fighters and DropShips of various pirate bands. The near defenceless JumpShip had been ordered to surrender to Queen Jennifer Briton II the leader of the Cyclops. Not knowing what this was and being totally surrounded by the pirates the ComStar Explorers had no choice but to surrender with Captain Isabelle Cain taken into custody aboard the Cyclops.
Following nearly a week in custody inside the unknown pirate base, known as Cyclops, which appeared to be a massive uncharted Spacestation likely cobbled together from space junk Isabelle Cain had been able to finally meet Queen Jennifer Briton II, a beautiful woman in her early thirties with a beautiful well kept body and striking long black hair. “Captain, it is so nice to meet you.†Jennifer said moving slowly, although this area had stronger gravity than the area Isabelle had been held in it was still less than one standard gravity in strength, she was dressed in a long red and black dressing grown, which perfectly fit her trim figure, her long dark hair flowed over her shoulders.
“Queen Briton, it is nice to meet you.†Isabelle said quietly “very interesting indeed.†She said again
“Likewise captain, it appears that you are not the merchant your papers claim you are†she said rounding her desk looking at Isabelle Cain, who hadn’t cleaned in a week and was still dressed in her standard well worn merchant jump-suit uniform, all part of her cover she had nothing to show she was from ComStar.
“We are explorers as well as merchants, there were rumours that the Star League Defence Force had come this way when they destroyed the Rim Worlds Republic during the Reunification War, I take calculated risks in our journeys to see if they left any relics behind.†Isabelle said keeping generally to her cover story.
“And who would you report these finds to? Captain, the Star League has been gone for centuries, no-one cares where their army is now or what they did back then before we were just figments of our mother’s wrenched imaginations. We care about the here and now. Now here and now you have delivered me a new JumpShip and a new DropShip both in near perfect condition, even with the recent discoveries from the Helm Memory Core at NAIS, and across the Inner Sphere, these are very rare finds, especially for people like me.â€
“You’re base is a rare find for me also.†Isabelle said without thinking, knowing she’d stepped over her bounds slightly she knew she’d have to say more. “You are correct Queen Briton we are not purely merchants, though we do make a side profit on such things our main work is more complex. I work for an organisation that is interested in exploring space, we chart new worlds for colonisation, Star League finds and worlds that have previously fallen off the grid. We could use a base such as this.â€
“This base has been in my family’s name since we found it centuries ago, it will be ours as long as we bring breath to our lungs, no-one will ever take it from us.†Jennifer Briton said suddenly there was an edge to her voice, she was angry. From the way she spoke of the base and the lighter than norm gravity Isabelle knew they were on a ship or space station but little else.
“Of course, we would never want to control this station, it is yours and you are quite welcome to maintain control over it and the system, our resources and expertise do not stretch that far. However, we would be interested in perhaps using it as a supply base? Perhaps an information centre as well? We could come up with some arrangement I’m sure…†Isabelle said her voice drifting away inviting Jennifer to make the next move.
“Yes, we could perhaps, but what would be in it for me and my family?â€
“Well I’m guessing that this station is a relic of the old Star League?†Isabelle asked Jennifer didn’t speak so Isabelle continued along those lines “and I’m guessing you cannot find as many spare parts as you once could?†Jennifer nodded briefly “my organisation has access to Star League-era parts, supplies and other essentials. You allow us to use this base as a re-supply base and information gathering point and we will bring a constant flow of parts allowing you to keep this base operating for generations to come, we could also assist you with dealing with threats to your station.â€
“We have no enemies.†Jennifer said proudly and confidently “the man who found this place and built this base from its bare bones, my great-grandfather Paul ‘Mad Dog’ Briton knew that the only way this place could survive was if everyone respected its neutrality, his control over the station and this system and the Station’s status as a free port. We have maintained this for centuries it is the number one rule of the Cyclops, no-one except my people have weapons on board this station and anyone who tries to use their ships weapons does not last long. Your organisation would be held to the same rules.â€
“Rules we’d happily follow, having a base in this region and an ally would be very helpful for us in our explorations.â€
“We are not allies†Jennifer warned “we are business partners, nothing more. I owe you no loyalty and you owe me none either.â€
“I think we can deal on that†Isabelle said quietly she knew that ComStar had the resources to take most objectives it needed, but that would mean showing more of their cards than they were ready to. With access to this base they wouldn’t have to spend resources on it.
“Or something like it.†Jennifer said smiling “now I think it is time to show you and your people around.†She said stepping forward pulling Isabelle to her feet “and perhaps get you a bath.†Jennifer continued a smile appearing on her face. They then headed over to the windows where Isabelle was treated to a wonderful, amazing sight. They were in space as she thought onboard a space station of some description on one of the Gravity Decks rotating around a long core, with dozen of DropShip Collars and around them there were several other Gravity Decks all of various different sizes and dimensions, obviously more had been added over the years.
“Amazing†Isabelle whispered looking out, around them in space there were several DropShips, several of designs and names that Isabelle knew by sight some deadly enemies but at peace here. “Unbelievable.â€
“I almost say the same thing.†Jennifer said quietly, “you are right, this used to be a Star League creation†she said beginning to explain a little of what this place was. “The Cyclops formerly known as the SLS Cyclops was recalled from mothball to serve the SLDF during the Reunification War. It was an unlucky ship, some called her a cursed ship, however she served with distinction during the conflict right up to the point when Stefan Amaris staged his Coup de etat against the Star League and Alexandr Kerensky decided that Terra would be his next target. The Cyclops jumped beginning its long journey home when its core overloaded and killed half the crew and passengers. A week later SLDF found her rescued the crew they decided that the Cyclops was unsalvageable removing what they could to repair other vessels in their battered fleet. Suicide charges were set but never exploded, for the first time in its history the Cyclops was lucky. Several pirate bands used it but none had an idea what to do, Mad Dog came along with a plan, taking control he stripped what he didn’t want and began down the path we are still on today.â€
“Amazing, it’s a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser†Jennifer said finally seeing the vessel for all its worth under all the additions the pirates had added, one of the largest SLDF vessels in mass production capable of transporting twenty-five DropShips at once they were the backbone of transporting the Star League‘s massive Corps formations.
“Not any more, it’s our base of operations and the one free port in this region.â€
“Well, Queen Briton, I can guarantee that my organisation will want to use this base for its operations and that your station will greatly benefit from out little arrangement.†Isabelle said, within a week more ComStar vessels had arrived. These vessels were under various cover names and false companies that all answered to this exploration firm Isabelle Cain claimed to work for. In fact these vessels carried higher ranked Explorer Corps and ComGuard officers that could speak for ComStar and agree to Queen Briton’s terms they signed off on agreements that the people they sent to the station would cause no trouble and would pay over the odds with equipment and supplies for the exclusive use of three DropShip collars and for permanent residency of one DropShip at the Station for support personnel. They also agreed to begin supplying the station with upgrades and spare parts that could fit a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, fortunately ComStar had always maintained one such vessel in their secret WarShip fleet, like the Cyclops a hold over from the Star League.
With new supplies and capabilities opening on the station new partners quickly began to arrive as word spread of the station’s new capabilities and facilities the Cyclops Station experienced a new lease of life as business once again picked up for the Free Port. Meanwhile ComStar had a base to strike out deeper into the Periphery in search of other mysteries of the Periphery.
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3040-3049
Inner Sphere and Clans
All
As per canon the nations of the Inner Sphere continue to rebuild from their decades of war with the Gray Death Legion’s discovery of a Star League Memory core fuelling rebuilding efforts. For the Clans the Crusaders constant call for invasion of the Inner Sphere falls on deaf ears until the Outbound Light appears in the Huntress system.
3049
WarShip True Vision (Congress-class Frigate)
Before Operation Revival Invasion Trials
Deep Periphery, Clan Fleets
22nd January 3049
Following an encounter with the ComStar vessel Outbound Light over the Clan Smoke Jaguar Homeworld of Huntress deep in the Kerensky Cluster, the territory claimed by the Clans descendants of the original Star League Defence Force Exodus Army, the Clans were hit by a revelation the Inner Sphere was beginning to rebuild their armies and rediscover technology, soon they would be able to resist the Clans and the formation of the Federated Commonwealth super state, which covers half the Inner Sphere. They soon realise that only way to ensure the Clans held the advantage in an Invasion would be to attack now. Following a lengthy debate the invasion is planned to begin in 3050 with trials taking place in deep space between various Clans all vying for their position in the Invasion.
The Clans were split in two camps the Crusaders and the Wardens. The Crusaders wanted to invade the Inner Sphere crushing the Succession Lords and Periphery States rebuilding the Star League in their image, while the Wardens wanted to return to the Inner Sphere and present themselves as the reborn Star League prepared to guide, teach and serve the Inner Sphere on how to live honourably and in peace.
The Crusaders with all of the most powerful Clans included within their number and the dwindling resources of the Clan Homeworlds won the disagreement and an invasion was planned. Now in deep space all the Clans who wanted to join the invasion gathered ready to strike. Waiting for ilKhan Leo Showers to order the attack to begin, already they had swept aside several deep range and pirate colonies that had opposed their march towards the Inner Sphere.
The leaders of Clan Nova Cat Khan Severn Lervoux and saKhan Lucian Carns are ready to submit the Nova Cats to the force and engage in trials to see when they would attack the Inner Sphere. The Nova Cats had always been one of the strongest Clans and the two Khans wanted to keep them there, with the resources of the Inner Sphere supporting them the Nova Cats could maintain their position and become ilClan by conquering Terra while the other Clans fought each other. However, just as they are ready to leave to join the other Clans aboard the Clan Wolf Flagship Dire Wolf, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, Oathmaster Biccon Winters arrives in system aboard the Nova Cat’s Flagship True Vision, Congress-class Frigate. Within the Nova Cats the Oathmaster had always been the ‘third’ force within the Clan because they translated the visions of the Clan’s warriors and had visions of the Clan’s future. The Nova Cats have always believed in the power of visions driven from the purity of their spirit, powerful experiences they had and a higher power that gave them the strength to see the future for a short spell. Of all the Clans the Nova Cat’s belief in visions is the closest any have to a belief in a higher power or something beyond the material world, only the Goliath Scorpions belief in visions comes close and they use drugs to bring on their delusions.
Biccon Winters informed the Khans that she has had a vision and it has told her that if the Nova Cats invaded the Inner Sphere they would cease to be as a Clan. Following a heated discussion between the Khan’s, their Galaxy Commanders and the Oathmaster the Nova Cats chose to embrace their past as they look to the future and withdraw Clan Nova Cat from the Invasion Forces, despite widespread condemnation from the Crusader Clans and several outright threats from Clans Smoke Jaguar and Jade Falcon, however others soon realise this as their meal ticket into the Inner Sphere without the Nova Cats there is less competition for inclusion in the initial invasion and more chance they will have access to the resources of the Inner Sphere quicker. Biccon reveals that the Nova Cats have a different path than the other Clans and now they must find it.
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3050
Operation Revival
Inner Sphere
Mid-Late 3050
The Clans launch a surprise blitzkrieg on the Inner Sphere taking the technological inferior Inner Sphere by total surprise. As the Inner Sphere do not even know who or what the Clans are and do not recognise their strange Mechs, their alien looking Battle Armour and massive WarShips. Fear that the Clans are an Alien Invasion force quickly spreads throughout the Inner Sphere an many panic driven units run at even the mention of a Clan attack. Although the rumours of Alien Invasion are soon quelled however these rumours and battle reports of constant defeat at the hands of the superior enemy forces help to constantly break the Inner Sphere’s morale helping the invasion continue unrelenting with dozens of units shattered in their wake.
Clan Jade Falcon invades the Free Rasalhague Republic/Federated Commonwealth (Lyran-side) zone almost capturing Heir-designate Victor Steiner-Davion of the Federated Commonwealth on Twycross when his unit is temporally trapped on world. Victor’s escape and the subsequent damage done to the Jade Falcon forces by his unit during the escape is one of the things that proves to the Inner Sphere can defeat the Clans.
Clan Wolf gains the central invasion corridor encompassing only Free Rasalhague Republic space, this is seen as a slight against the Wolves because of their strong warden leanings and because their Khan, Ulric Kerensky is against the invasion, the only reason the Wolves are here is because they are the chosen of Kerensky and their place in any invasion was almost a given from their foundation. The Free Rasalhague Republic are the weakest of the Inner Sphere States and the Wolves make the most rapid progress of all the Clans. During the opening attacks Clan Wolf captures Phelan Kell, son of the legendary Morgan Kell founder and owner of the Kell Hounds Mercenary Regiments. Although many of the other invading Clans baulk at the capturing of a freeborn warrior Khan Ulric Kerensky puts Phelan to work and Bondsmen Phelan, as he is known, helps the Wolves to their early successes.
The Ghost Bears gain an invasion corridor that offers more resistance the Free Rasalhague Republic/Draconis Combine border. The Bears make slow but steady progress crushing the Draconis Combine’s District of Alshian as they progress forward deeper into the Inner Sphere.
The final front-line invading Clan is the Smoke Jaguars they gain the Draconis Combine corridor exclusively and although they find stern resistance from the samurai warriors of the Draconis Combine they make steady progress towards their first target, Luthien, the Draconis Combine’s capital. Within the Smoke Jaguars there is a worry that their Clan is heading for ruin with the invasion as they are stripping their Homeworlds territories of all front-line warriors and are taking heavy casualties in the fighting. ilKhan Leo Showers leads his Clan forward regardless continuing to ship captured Inner Sphere equipment to the Homeworlds forces to bolster their forces while taking more and more Homeworld warriors to the Inner Sphere.
3051
Inner Sphere Occupation Zone
Operation Revival
November 3051
The First Wave of the Invasion was a resounding success with over two hundred worlds captured by the unstoppable Clan Juggernaught. The Free Rasalhague Republic reduced to a mere handful of worlds from over a hundred. In late 3050 however a Rasalhague fighter piloted by Kapten Tyra Miraborg rammed the Dire Wolf, the Clan Wolf WarShip leading the Clan Invasion. Normally such an attack from a single fighter would pose little threat to the multi-thousand ton WarShip, however, fate would smile on the Inner Sphere as the ramming attack penetrated the armour causing a hull breach killing the Clan War Leader ilKhan Leo Showers and injuring or killing several more of the prominent Khans. Almost immediately operations against the Inner Sphere stopped as the Clans withdrew all of their Bloodnamed warriors to the Clan Homeworlds to vote for a new ilKhan and to fight Trials for new Clans to replace those lost.
Following the election of Clan Wolf Khan Ulric Kerensky to the post of ilKhan the Clans returned almost exactly a year after they had left. Natasha Kerensky, the infamous Black Widow of the Wolf’s Dragoons, rejoins Clan Wolf following the recall order retaking her position within the Clan. Natasha is the only member of the former-Clan Wolf’s Dragoons Mercenary Brigade to return to Clan Wolf the rest of the warriors are now fully assimilated into the Inner Sphere and have no wish to return to their previous lives of servitude. Natasha fights a trial against Wolf Warriors wanting to test her skills against ’proper’ warriors before allowing her to return to the position of a Clan front-line warrior. Natasha repeats her first Trial of Position taking down four Wolf Mechs making her an instant Star Colonel.
With Ulric gaining the position of ilKhan, leader of the whole Clan Invasion. Even with her status as a former member of the Dragoons and all her time in the Inner Sphere Natasha Kerensky proves she is still worthy of being a Clan Warrior and claims the position of Khan of Clan Wolf. Soon after this captured Inner Sphere bondsmen Phelan Kell, of the famed Kell Hounds Mercenary Unit captured during the original invasion, gains his Bloodname, of Clan Wolf’s Ward bloodline and becomes saKhan of Clan Wolf. All three are stanch wardens dedicated to the preservation of the Inner Sphere however they find themselves leading the Clan Invasion of the Inner Sphere. Despite their Warden leanings the three Clan Wolf Khans continue to push their Clan faster against the Inner Sphere than any other Clan Khan.
This time the original invaders, Clans Wolf, Jade Falcon, Ghost Bear and Smoke Jaguar are joined by two more Clans the Steel Vipers partnered with the Jade Falcons attacking the Lyran-half of the Federated Commonwealth, an alliance of the Federated Suns and the Lyran Commonwealth that controlled half the Inner Sphere. And the Star Adders partnered with the Smoke Jaguars attacking the Draconis Combine helping the struggling Smoke Jaguar Clan which had taken heaviest losses of all the Clans so far. Even with the assistance and training provided by Wolf’s Dragoons and superior technology available the Inner Sphere’s militaries following intense research/development and reverse engineering the Inner Sphere’s armies are still ineffectual against the Clans winning few battles. The Inner Sphere also begins debuting their first generation Battle Armour designs field testing them against live opponents. The new Battle Armour quickly proves to be one of the greatest accomplishments the Inner Sphere has made in fighting the Clans as now Inner Sphere Infantry can fight on a closer level to their Clan Elemental opponents. Unfortunately the Inner Sphere lacks sufficient production capacity and understanding of the suits to produce significant quantities of the armour and Inner Sphere soldiers are still not as powerful as their Clan cousins limiting the effectiveness of these suits.
Although the initial batch of suits are welcomed by the units engaging the Clans quickly the units testing the Battle Armour return to the designers pointing out flaws that are limiting the designs these are soon corrected making the Battle Armour more effectual and allowing the Inner Sphere Standard suit to go into full production. Although this suit is one hundred years behind the Clan’s Elemental it is a welcome sight to any unit fielding them for the first time.
The Gray Death Legion Mercenary Regiment decimated by the Clans in their first Battles are among the units to be used to test the Battle Armour suits by the Federated Commonwealth. The Legionaries are known for their use of infantry against BattleMechs and are seen as perfect test subjects for this powerful new weapon. The Gray Death Legion soon return to the Federated Commonwealth’s NAIS Research Division with improvements for the design and construct two unique sub-variants of the design for their use. Hand-building these suits at their Glengarry base in the Lyran half of the Federated Commonwealth on a case by case basis keeping the Gray Death Legion well stocked in Battle Armour for years to come.
Meanwhile on the Clan front Clan Smoke Jaguar almost secures the capture of Heir-designate Hohiro Kurita of the Draconis Combine however they do not immediately realise who he is and throw him in prison. An intervention by Victor Steiner-Davion saves Hohiro’s life and marks the first time the Federated Commonwealth and Draconis Combine have openly cooperated in centuries.
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3052
First Battle of Luthien
Draconis Combine
14th January 3052
In January the Inner Sphere was rocked when Clan Smoke Jaguar and Clan Star Adder launch a full scale invasion of and conquer Luthien, the capital of the Draconis Combine and home to House Kurita. Even with help from the Federated Commonwealth hired mercenary regiments the Wolf’s Dragoons and Kell Hounds the defenders of Luthien are defeated with both Kell Hounds and Wolf’s Dragoons taking heavy losses and are forced to retreat from Luthien.
Before the DCMS can retreat four Combine BattleMech Regiments are decimated and broken, the DCMS’ largest loss in the entire invasion campaign. On the throne world both the Combine’s leader Coordinator Takashi Kurita and, his son/heir, Kanrei Theodore Kurita are missing presumed dead, Theodore’s son Hohiro Kurita is whisked from Luthien on the orders left by his father and is named Coordinator (Pro-tem) of the Draconis Combine until either Takashi or Theodore can be found or their bodies identified.
Second Battle of Luthien
Draconis Combine
13th March 3052
Following two months of planning and many backroom deals between the Draconis Combine and Federated Commonwealth Warlord Hohiro Kurita leads a multi-national task force against Luthien. Liberating the world in six weeks of heavy fighting. Which devastates Luthien and dozens of regiments taking several of the Inner Sphere’s front-line units off the battle roster for months. This victory does however prove to many that the Inner Sphere can work together as a single force if they put their differences behind them. The only force missing from the battle is ComStar, who although invited to participate in the battle refused. It soon becomes apparent the ComStar has its own plan for the Clans.
When everything done several units are devastated including the Wolf Dragoons Beta and Delta Regiments. On the Clan side the Smoke Jaguars and Star Adders are bloodied with the Smoke Jaguars loosing their entire Beta Galaxy in the fighting and the Star Adders loosing their WarShip Eagle, an Essex-class Destroyer, that had been supplying ground troops when a pair of Capellan Confederation DropShips engaged and eventually rammed the vessel when its engines had been destroyed and the crew could do nothing else. Both ships are destroyed in a fireball that tore through the Draconis Combine‘s Capitol‘s atmosphere impacting on one of the Dragon‘s Tears Islands rendering the island uninhabitable with a massive fireball and explosion.
Following the battle Takashi and Theodore Kurita are found dead in the ruins of the Imperial Palace, suspiciously they have both been stabbed in the back. Following a full examination it appears they were killed by an ancient scimitar but neither the weapon or possible murderer are ever found. ISF officially declare it was a member of the Clans who killed them then fled following the Liberation of Luthien by Inner Sphere forces however they keep both cases open just in case something comes up.
Battle of Tukayyid
Tukayyid, Free Rasalhague Republic
June 3052
Finding out that the Clans intend on fighting their way to Terra in the centre of the Inner Sphere conquering it then the rest of the Inner Sphere ComStar stops assisting the Clans with communications and intelligence. Then Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht, commander of the ComGuard, challenges ilKhan Ulric Kerensky to a Trial of Possession between the ComStar and the Invading Clans on the world of Tukayyid in what little remains of the Free Rasalhague Republic. If the ComGuards win the Clans stop their invasion where they stand and do not continue their invasion for another fifteen years. If they loose the ComGuards surrender to the Clans, ComStar turns Terra over to the Clans and ComStar becomes sub-servant to the Clans, or at least that is the deal.
After some convincing on both sides the Trial is set and after a monumental effort by ComStar to get its forces from Terra and the Periphery to Tukayyid, and to evacuate the population of the world, approximately fifty ComGuard Divisions meet the front-line Galaxies of the six invading Clans supported by several small forces from other Clans who have yet to invade the Inner Sphere but want to test themselves against the Inner Sphere‘s force. After several weeks of heavy combat the Battle ends with heavy damage to all of the ComGuard Divisions, with some destroyed, and entire Clan Galaxies destroyed the battlegrounds slowly all fall silent. As the tallies are done the Clans are declared the losers with only two Clans causing serious damage to the Clans and/or secured their objectives. Defeated the Clans must honour the fifteen year truce bought by ComGuard blood and are forbidden to move anywhere closer to Terra until the Truce ends. The Clans angry at what has happened begin to strike against each other in the Occupation Zone and at home in the Clan Homeworlds, the Inner Sphere Militaries drop into a defensive posture and begin to rebuild and develop new technologies to fight the Clans in the future.
Following the Battle Primus Myndo Waterly launches Operation Scorpion in an attempt to crush the Inner Sphere and Clans but it fails by killing their leadership and severing all communications. Several of the commands under her refuse to carry out their orders or are thwarted by the Inner Sphere of Clan forces, on at least one occasion by the two working together. Soon after ComStar is split in two with a small amount of leaving to form the Word of Blake, a ComStar (in-Exile) hidden deep within the Free Worlds League. While the majority stands as ComStar ready to defend the Inner Sphere from any further Clan threat. One factor that does hamper ComStar is that the combined failure of Operation Scorpion and the defections to the Word of Blake cripple ComStar’s intelligence service the ROM blinding ComStar to most threats until they are right in front of them. Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht initiates a wide range of programs to gain ComStar more acceptance among the Inner Sphere following the lost respect from Operation Scorpion which causes more defections.
Just days after the end of the Battle of Tukayyid First Prince Hanse Davion of the Federated Commonwealth passes away in his sleep on New Avalon, in the Federated Suns half of the Commonwealth. Leadership passes to his son Prince Victor Steiner-Davion. However, Victor is unwilling to take the crown and instead names his mother, Hanse’s wife, Melissa Steiner-Davion as leader of the Federated Commonwealth as he continues to wage war against the Clans. Melissa promises to pass on leadership when Victor asks for his throne back while proving that she is as able a leader as her husband was concentrating on the people of her nation instead of the troubles along their borders. Across both halves of the Federated Commonwealth Melissa Steiner-Davion proves to be a symbol of hope and prosperity.
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3053
Wolf’s Dragoons Training Sibko Training
Outreach, Chaos March
28th February 3053
Being former Clansmen the Wolf’s Dragoons had brought many machines and customs with them when they had joined the Inner Sphere as a mercenary force. Their winning of Outreach from the Federated Commonwealth following the Fourth Succession War had given them room and the necessary secrecy to build things the Inner Sphere could only dream about.
One of these such creations was a small Genetic Repository and Iron Womb facility on Outreach were the Dragoons could literally breed new warriors that would fill their ranks in the future and provide the Dragoons with Clan-styled Elemental Warriors for infantry operations. This facility located near the Dragoons’ own factory was a top secret facility that no-one outside top level Dragoons were ever allowed to enter allowing the Dragoons to keep their programs a total secret.
With this facility was a Clan Sibko-style training school where newly bred warriors were trained from birth to become the ultimate warrior, much like Trueborn Clan Warriors. One of these new generation Dragoon warriors was Brian, a communications expert and talented warrior. Soon after his graduation Brian quickly won the Honour name of Cameron, becoming Brian Cameron, in a process similar to the Clan’s Trial of Bloodright.
Assigned to the Alpha Regiment of the Dragoons Brian Cameron was assigned to the rebuilding Regiment following the Battle of Luthien. With several captured Star Adder and Smoke Jaguar warriors added to the ranks of the Dragoons, captured as Bondsmen during the Second Battle of Luthien, the Dragoons had a resurgence of life and were ready for duty. Unfortunately because of Kantov's Battalion, of the Wolf’s Dragoons, defaulting on a contract and the damage done to the Dragoons at Luthien the Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission (MRBC) on Outreach had placed a year long ban on the Dragoons taking any legal contracts. With Colonel Jamie Wolf unwilling to take contracts out with the MRBC, as he had pioneered the organisation’s rebuilding and the honest mercenary trade especially on Outreach, the Dragoons were stuck on Outreach rebuilding and training.
Wolf Dragoons Command, Harlech
Outreach, Chaos March
18th March 3053
With the return of the Dragoons from Luthien there was trouble brewing with the various commands and the new adoptees taken from the Clans on Luthien. Some of the major hotspots of trouble within the Dragoons ranks comes from Elemental warrior Elson Nova Cat. Although captured from the Smoke Jaguar Clan Elson continues to cling to the Clan of his birth, the Nova Cats, now free of the Clans bearing over him he has elected to retake his Nova Cat heritage. Inspirational and charismatic Elson wins a lot of support within the Dragoons willing to speak out against Colonel Jamie Wolf and other commanders of the Dragoons. One of Elson’s major supporters, and mouthpieces, within the Dragoons is Jamie Wolf’s own estranged grandson Alpine Wolf. Although he is unhappy with the moves being made against him Jamie Wolf continues to martial his forces and stand ready but does not make any moves against either Elson or Alpine, hoping to avoid any real fight.
Meanwhile within the Dragoons a new warrior begins to raise through the ranks Captain Maeve of the Wolf Spider Company. A trueborn warrior born on Outreach at the Dragoon’s own Iron Womb facility few know that Maeve is an exact clone of Jamie Wolf, even Jamie Wolf himself does not know, Maeve continues to impress commanders within the Dragoons on exercises.
3055
Charity Event
Tharkad City, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Federated Commonwealth
19th June 3055
The fragile Federated Commonwealth Alliance is rocked when at a charity event on Tharkad Archon Melissa Steiner-Davion and Morgan Kell’s wife are killed and Morgan is crushed alive under the rubble by a bomb-blast that destroys the charity conference building they were staying in. Days later Morgan is recovered alive but with one arm crushed beyond repair, the Grand-Duke of Arc-Royal returns home to command his Kell Hound‘s mercenaries in their continuing struggle to maintain the Lyran border against Clan Jade Falcon. Even with extensive surgery Morgan loses his arm and is unable to pilot a Mech, instead Morgan begins to concentrate on larger issues such as running Arc-Royal, his families land hold.
Following the death of his mother Victor Steiner-Davion officially takes over the leadership of the Federated Commonwealth becoming Archon-Prince of the largest of the Succession Lord States. Hanse Davion’s and Katrina Steiner’s dream of uniting half of the Inner Sphere under one banner finally comes into being. Unfortunately the Federated Commonwealth is not a happy place, the Federated Suns half of the nation is peaceful and undamaged by the recent conflicts however it has been stripped of many premier fighting units sent to fight the Clans, while the Lyran Commonwealth half is battered on one side by the clans and attacked from within by separatists movements. Added to this is Victor is a combat veteran not a politician making beginner mistakes which make things even more complicated.
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3056
Skye and Solaris VII
Skye Province, Federated Commonwealth
April 3056
On Solaris VII Victor Steiner-Davion’s aide and Katherine Steiner-Davion’s lover Galen Cox is apparently killed by a bomb-blast in a Solaris Hotel Katherine barely gets away from the attack with her life. In fact Galen escapes death with the aide of a Loki agent who informs him that Katherine ordered his death. On that day Galen Cox dies and Jerrard Cranston takes his place beside Victor Steiner-Davion, it takes several years for anyone to think Jerrard Cranston is anything but what he says he is, some wonder about him however because Victor seems to trust Jerrard implicitly. The truth is that Galen is Jerrard and the swap was made to make everyone believe Galen’s assassin had succeeded. Victor neither denies or promotes this helping hide Jerrard‘s exact identity.
Four days later on Skye Duke Robert Steiner is killed by a sniper. The assassin is never caught although the rumour is that either Katherine or Victor Steiner-Davion ordered Robert‘s death to stop Free Skye launching another damaging rebellion while the Lyrans were barely holding things together against the Clans.
Cyclops, Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser/Space Station
Unexplored Deep Periphery System
96 Light-years Core-ward Cirincus Federation
14th July 3056
For sixteen years ComStar had used the Pirate controlled Cyclops Space Station in the deep periphery as a base for their Explorer units in the Core and Rim Exploration areas to great effect. The break away Word of Blake had taken several of these finds, mainly ex-SLDF bases, when they broke from ComStar in 3051 but the resources and Intel available at Cyclops had remained in ComStar hands. With the revealing of the ComGuard Navy and Ground forces Queen Jennifer Briton II, owner and ruler of the Cyclops, had amended the deal with ComStar and the ancient vessel-turn-space station had began extensive upgrades in weapons, although ComStar had been able to keep naval grade weapons out of the pirates hands. The pirates and ComStar also had maintained the non-aggression treaty that had made Cyclops such an effective free port, even when the true power and the secrets of ComStar had begun to be revealed, the peace ensured and Cyclops ensured.
It was early morning local time, late evening Terra-standard time, onboard the ComStar registered Union-class DropShip Marathon. Over the years the ship had been extensively modified and now housed over a hundred ComStar Explorer Corps personnel and was the hub for local Explorer Corps missions. Alongside the Marathon was two more Explorer Corps DropShips waiting for the pick-up call by a JumpShip. Instead of this call however it was another that was awakening the ComGuard crew aboard the Marathon and every pirate on-board ships in the area. “Attention this is Demi-Precentor Karl T. Lockhart of the Word of Blake, we are under orders to take custody of the DropShips Marathon, Lonely Quest and Cargo Jumper, all registered with the Heretics of ComStar and the ComGuard. We will not be leaving without these vessel and will use force if necessary.†The Word of Blake officer had said over an open frequency naming all three ComStar Explorer Corps vessels, before Adept Hanna Stocker, the Marathon’s commander, could reply another voice came onto the comm. frequency.
“Precentor, you have one minute to turn your DropShips around or you will be in violation of Cyclops Sovereign territory and will be destroyed.†Queen Jennifer Briton II said into the comm. channel across the Cyclops fighters and DropShips were launching.
“Our trouble is with ComStar, not you Queen Briton†Lockhart said showing he knew who she was, on the video screen Jennifer did not look amused with his knowledge.
“I have a problem with anyone with a gun in my space, leave now.†She warned one last time.
“That will not be happening, Peace of Blake be with you.†Lockhart said suddenly all three of his DropShips began launching fighters and powering weapons, the last move any of them would ever make. Already launched and already in position all local pirate forces, some from the station other not, dropped on the Word of Blake forces destroying fighter after fighter within minutes all the Word of Blake Fighters were destroyed while the three DropShips were under heavy fire from the combined DropShips of the fighters and the Cyclops’ own extensive weapons suite. The Word of Blake Achilles-class assault DropShip was swiftly destroyed, followed quickly by the Leopard CV-carrier DropShip and finally the Hamilcar being disabled and captured by Pirate marines from the station, a brand-new Free Worlds League design was quite a catch as were the eight BattleMechs in its cargo hold.
After a few minutes of silence as various ships and EVA pilots were recovered Hanna Stocker was able to get onto the video comm. channel with Queen Jennifer Briton II. “Queen Briton, the Explorer Corps are in your debt.â€
“Nonsense, the Word of Blake broke the non-aggression treaty we maintain in this system, I had to destroy them or anyone would feel they could violate the treaty and Cyclops would be destroyed or badly damaged in the cross-fire. The Laws of the Cyclops will always apply here.†Jennifer explained herself and their actions, the Word of Blake had been destroyed due to their own stupidity, Hanna liked that.
“Still, I think that perhaps we can help you out in some ways and ensure if this happens again, perhaps against a bigger threat, then the Cyclops will be able to defend herself.â€
“I’m interested Adept Stocker, shall we meet in six hours, in my private suite?†Briton suggested although it would still be early morning on ComStar’s clock Hanna was ready for that and agreed to the plan. During the meeting Hanna negotiated the rates of the Explorer Corps docking fees would be lowered and the Cyclops would receive weapons upgrades on all weapons and tracking systems ensuring it could meet any threat up to a full naval assault. Hanna was able to keep naval grade weaponry out of the Pirate Queen’s hands so ComStar would always have that advantage if it was needed.
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3057
New Avalon Institute of Science, Avalon City
New Avalon, Crucis March,
Federated Commonwealth
September 3057
While receiving treatment for Leukaemia Joshua Marik, son of Free Worlds Leader Captain-General Thomas Marik, dies at the NAIS, the premier research facility in the Inner Sphere. Instead of informing the Captain-General of his son’s death Archon-Prince Victor Steiner-Davion chooses to replace him with a duplicate knowing that if Thomas was to break the agreement he made with Victor’s father to supply the Federated Commonwealth with weapons for their treating Joshua the nation may cave under intense Clan pressure.
Thomas Marik soon exposes Victor’s plot and launches an assault against the Federated Commonwealth’s Sarna March, an attack the Capellan Confederation happily supports gobbling up several of the Sarna March worlds they lost in the Fourth Succession War, this attack split’s the Federated Commonwealth back into its two separate halves. Horrified by her brother’s actions Katherine withdraws the Lyran-half using an emergency escape clause in the Federated Commonwealth Alliance Agreement forming the Lyran Alliance. She also recalls all Lyran troops home, while the FedCom personnel in the Lyran Alliance are stripped of their transport assets and trapped in the Alliance by the new Archon. The recall of the Lyran troops causes the Sarna March to disintegrate into the Chaos March a lawless region of space in the centre of the Inner Sphere.
Refusal War
Clan Occupation Zones
Wolf and Jade Falcon Territory
September-December 3057
Following charges of genocide against the Clans with the Truce of Tukayyid stopping an entire generation of warriors experiencing a real invasion or test by Clan Jade Falcon. Clan Wolf fights the Refusal War against Clan Jade Falcon, the Jade Falcons attempt to absorb the Wolves in the fight turning it into a Trial of Absorption. Under Ulric Kerensky’s leadership the Wolves bid their entire force and engage the Jade Falcon in their own territory much to the surprise of the Jade Falcons. Although it causes the life of Ulric Kerensky and Natasha Kerensky the Warden element of Clan Wolf, dedicated to the defence of the Inner Sphere, travels into the Lyran Alliance under the command of Khan Phelan Kell, Kerensky creating the Kell Bloodname for Phelan, and they become the Wolf (in-Exile) Clan settling on Arc Royal the land hold of the Kell family.
Following the battles, and a temporary absorbing of Clan Wolf by the Jade Falcons the Clan High Council meet in the Homeworlds and officially abjure the Exiled Wolves and vote Smoke Jaguar Khan Lincoln Osis as their new ilKhan. Many of the Khans see this as a hollow position now that the Invasion is over however there has been an ilKhan since the foundation of the Clans and the Smoke Jaguars take great pride in having the position of ilKhan back within their ranks despite their weakened state and their internal problems.
Many Inner Sphere people call for a strike against the Wolves and the Jade Falcons in their weakened state however the leader of the Inner Sphere are nowhere near ready to strike back against a Clan alone and none are willing to put the centuries of war behind them to combine their militaries to fight back against the Inner Sphere.
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3058
Hall of the Khans
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
12th January 3058
“My Great Khans†Star Colonel Thomas Perez said standing in front of all the Khans of the Clans. The Twenty Clans had been formed by Nicholas Kerensky, son of Star League Defence Force Guardian/Commanding-General Alexandr Kerensky, the Clans formed from the remnants of the Star League Army following the break out of hostilities by factions of the army loyal to the Inner Sphere States. Strana Mechty and the other Homeworlds were located roughly one hundred thousand light-years from the Inner Sphere and were settled in two groups the Pentagon Worlds, the first five worlds settled by the Star League army, and the Kerensky Cluster, centred around Strana Mechty these worlds numbering over twenty were the core holdings of the Clans. “For years the Smoke Jaguar Clan has treated its lower castes with disdain and mistreatment.†Thomas continued “within the Clan there has been an element that fought against these practices, however our leadership have kept us quiet through the same such treatment used against the civilians by calling for a Trial of Annihilation against us. I have defeated our Khans in combat in a Trial of Grievance stopping our Annihilation, but we are still subject to Smoke Jaguar laws and treatment. I now call on you, the Khans of all the Clans, to allow us our independence.†He said the Khans looked to each other and a quiet murmuring filled the room, the two Khans of Clan Smoke Jaguar Lincoln Osis and Brandon Howell never moved or wavered on their gazes at Thomas Perez, their eyes full of pure hate, the only reason they were even here because Thomas had defeated both Khans in single combat stopping the Jaguar Touman from annihilating them all, now the decision was in the hands of all the Khans and it could go either way, the Smoke Jaguars had plenty of enemies. In an attempt to stop this break away faction Lincoln Osis stood up.
“My fellow Khans if you allow a faction to break from the Smoke Jaguar and form their own ‘clan’ you will invite factions from within all the Clans to act towards forming their own Clans. Our united front against the Inner Sphere will be broken and the Inner Sphere will take us apart piecemeal.†He said from the reactions of the other Khans Osis could see that some of the Khans were swayed by his words but others saw it for what it truly was, a desperate attempt to stop people breaking from the Smoke Jaguar Clan.
“I do not think that will happen, the rest of the Clans understand their lower castes and deal with them in the appropriate way, it is only the Clans who are unable to control their people and cater for their needs that have to worry.†Khan Severn Lervoux of Clan Nova Cat said standing briefly “I motion for a vote on the formation of this new Clan and that any Smoke Jaguar that wishes may join, also to ensure the civilians and warriors of other Clans do not feel mistreated any warrior or civilian who wishes to join this new Clan will be allowed a trial against a senior member of his, or her, own Clan winning will allow them to leave and join the new Clan.†He said before sitting back down again there was stunned silence in the grand hall for several moments, although none was willing to admit it this motion could set off several trials in every Clan weakening them all.
“I second the motion†Khan Barbara Sennet of Clan Diamond Shark said standing briefly then sitting again before Loremaster Kael Pershaw, the Jade Falcon Loremaster and currently speaker of the grand council could speak, the Diamond Sharks and Nova Cats had been allies for centuries and out of all the Clans they used and understood their civilian castes best so it wasn’t a great shock these Clans had voted to free the Smoke Jaguars who had been brutalized under that Clan. Neither the Nova Cats or the Diamond Sharks feared loosing people or resources because their Clans were unified unlike the Smoke Jaguars who brutalized their lower-castes and often cut down their own warriors for minor offences, one of the many reasons the Nova Cats and Smoke Jaguars hated each other.
Over the course of the next hour the Khans of the seventeen remaining Clans voted over the fate of Thomas Perez and his people.
Being the nominating Clans the Nova Cat and Diamond Shark Khans voted first with ‘Yes’ votes.
Clan Smoke Jaguar being the defensive Clan voted next with a resounding ‘No.’ Clans Wolf, Jade Falcon and Star Adder followed suit each with ‘No’ votes stacking things against Perez and his people.
Clan Blood Spirit smallest of the Clans was next with a ‘yes’ vote anything to weaken their stronger brethren increasing their chances of survival brining the total to three for and four against.
The Clan Cloud Cobra Khan voted next and as an ally of the Nova Cat and Diamond Shark Clans the Cloud Cobra Khan voted ‘yes’ bringing the votes equal.
The Khan of Clan Fire Mandrill, Garret Sainze, stood next “although many observers would say that Clan Fire Mandrill is a divided Clan we put our differences behind us and can not understand why other clans cannot do the same as such we will not vote on the break up of another clan, but we will not stand in their way. Clan Fire Mandrill abstains.â€
“The great monkey fails to make a decision once again†Lincoln Osis said quietly making fun of the Fire Mandrill Clan‘s animal totem and the Clans legendary reputation for being unable to make a major decision without fighting among themselves first, it was enough for the Fire Mandrill Khan to challenge Osis to a Trial of Grievance but the Fire Mandrill Khan remained silent.
“The vote is tied with four votes each and one abstention†Kael Pershaw said “Clan Coyote will vote next.†The Loremaster said the Khan of Clan Coyote stood.
“The Coyotes vote yes†the Coyote Khan, Sullivan Koga, said traditionally the Coyotes were the Wolves allies however politically the Wolves were Crusaders, hated and looked to destroy the Inner Sphere, and the Coyotes were Wardens, looking to live with and defend the Inner Sphere, so this could have a say in the decision by removing elements of the Smoke Jaguars they weakened the Crusader viewpoint.
The next two votes the Ghost Bears and the Goliath Scorpions both followed suit with ‘yes’ votes. The Hell’s Horses voted next with a ‘no’ vote trying to counter their enemies, the Ghost Bears. Clan Burrock voted next with an abstain, their Khan never even bothered to stand it was as if the Burrock Khan cared nothing for this entire Grand Council, an insult to all the Khans and to the Founder, Nicholas Kerensky, none of the other Khans challenged the Burrock leadership to a Trial of Grievance but there was several angry glances from around the table, this would not be the end of their retribution.
Following this was the Ice Hellions who also voted ‘no’ brining the vote to seven votes for and five votes against with only the Snow Ravens and the Steel Vipers to vote. The Snow Raven Khan Lynn McKenna the Khan stood “Clan Snow Raven abstains from this vote, we have nothing against the Smoke Jaguars and we are not interested in their petty struggles.†Sitting down Thomas Perez looked at the Snow Raven Khan he would have hoped for support from them but it had not come.
The last Khan stood, Perigard Zalman, Khan of Clan Steel Viper who smiled looking at the Jade Falcon Khan and the Smoke Jaguar Khan two rivals of his Clan “Clan Steel Viper votes Yes†he said sitting back down a wicked smile crossed his face.
“The votes are complete with eight votes for, seven against and three abstains. Thomas Perez you and your people are freed from Clan Smoke Jaguar. Any warrior willing to join you will be forced to fight one of the Khans in a Trial of Grievance before being able to join you. Your new Clan will be given the Avalon base in the De Chavilier Valley of Strana Mechty and a grace period of one year. In this time you will only be forced to fight trials of your own choosing. This grand council meeting is over.†Kael Pershaw said standing, the Khans chanted in one ‘Seyla’ there was a moment of silence then the Khans began moving out.
Lincoln Osis approached Thomas Perez “Star Colonel, enjoy this year because after it you will be dead as will your upstart Clan.†Thomas Perez turned to leave but the Smoke Jaguar Khan grabbed his arm “trust me, Thomas Perez, you and your people will be dead one year from now.â€
“We will never be Smoke Jaguars again†Thomas Perez said walking off leaving Khan Osis alone in the Grand Council chambers. Four days later Thomas Perez was voted Khan of Clan Stone Rhino, the newest of the great Clans.
Last part for today - only minor changes so far, the Clan War I didn't have huge problems with just a few minor changes set things off towards the future
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Battle of Coventry
Coventry Province, Lyran Alliance
March-April 3058
The Lyran Alliance is invaded by Clan Jade Falcon who fight their way to Coventry before being stopped and bogged down by a combined Lyran defenders supplemented by a Mercenary force made up of the Eridani Light Horse, Wolf‘s Dragoons and several smaller units. After a slight delay caused by Archon Katherine Steiner-Davion, her brother Victor Steiner-Davion arrives with a multi-national force to turn back the Jade Falcons. In a surprise move Victor offers the Falcons Hegira, the clan term for honourable retreat, which the Jade Falcon Khan Marthe Pryde accepts and returns her forces to the Occupation Zone. Some Inner Sphere experts believe that the Jade Falcon Khan just wanted to prove the metal of her Clan and blood the youngest members of her military however this proves to the Inner Sphere that they can work together during an Invasion or during a time of peace leading to plans for the First Whitting Conference to take place on Tharkad, the Lyran capital, to discuss further alliances.
During the battle Katherine Steiner-Davion meets with the leader of Clan Wolf when her transport is intercepted as she tries to reach the Smoke Jaguar Khan for a secret meeting. Katherine secretly agrees to hand the Inner Sphere to the Wolves once the Truce of Tukayyid has passed when the Wolves invade the Lyran Alliance will aide them. Khan Vlad Ward warns her that if she has not secured her position in the Inner Sphere by 3068 then he will come for her and she will be his bondsman. Katherine believes she has won a great victory however in fact she has sold her soul to the devil.
Raider’s Roost
Tortuga Prime, Tortuga Dominions
4th August 3058
Over the last couple of weeks reports suggesting there was a new pirate band walking the six worlds of the Tortuga Dominions annihilating everything that stood in their path. Some reports had suggested that it was the Federated Suns coming to finish what they stated in 3042 and bring the Tortuga Fusiliers to justice for the crimes they had committed. Twyla ‘The Major’ Sameral, commander of the Fusiliers, and pirate queen of the Tortuga Dominions had recalled all her troops to Tortuga following the first report and now they were dug in around Raider’s Roost.
The capital city of Tortuga, Raider’s Roost, was the only real city in the Tortuga Dominions and roughly six of the nation’s ten million inhabitants resided in the city, many as slaves to the Fusiliers but some who had gained their freedom or arrived showing the Fusiliers there was more they could do than slave work. Over the years high rise accommodation, the only examples of such buildings in the Dominions, had been erected. However without equipment and the correct skills to maintain them they had begun to fall apart, Twyla had always intended to search out some engineers in the Federated Suns or the Taurian Concordat she could abduct and bring to Raider’s Roost and sort things out but she had never gotten around to it “shoulda, woulda, coulda, didn’t, end of story†Twyla often said about it. Sometimes people who had run away from the Fusiliers slave pens would hide in the buildings but no-one with any brains would go near them. The Fusiliers used them as look out points however the constant landing of multi-ton BattleMechs on their roof’s had made the buildings even more unstable.
The BattleMech was the primary weapon of the modern era. Ranging from twenty to one hundred tons they could reach speeds of over one hundred kilometres per hour and travel over any terrain in any weather, some were equipped with Jump Jets allowing them to ascend buildings and cross hindering terrain. All were armed with a variety of lasers, missiles, autocannons and Particle Projection Cannons (PPCs) and were capable of levelling an entire city block alone. Generally only a bigger Mech could take out a Mech however in recent years with the development of other units on the field that rule was beginning to change. Regardless BattleMechs were the kings of the battlefield with their mix of speed, armour and firepower seeing a Mech on the field put the fear into any common foot soldier.
Then two days before the JumpShips at the Zenith and Nadir points, recharging their Kearny-Fuchida Jump Engines, which would allow the Tortuga Fusiliers to escape the system if things went bad, went dark refusing all communications from Tortuga. JumpShips were the lifeblood of interstellar travel and even for pirates they were off limits as targets. A JumpShip could jump up to thirty light-years in one jump leaving the orbit of one star and entering the other. After every jump they recharged their K-F Drives using solar energies with massive jump-sails and then jumped on to the next planet. Some advanced, and expensive, JumpShips had a Lithium Battery which allowed them to store two Jump Charges at one giving them an effective range of sixty light-years per jump, none of the Fusiliers’ JumpShips were equipped with such devices however. Most of the time JumpShips remained in high orbit over a Star collecting solar energy, and radiation, for their next jump while their passengers travelled in system with Small Craft and vessels known as DropShips. DropShips were capable of travelling into a system, something JumpShips were completely incapable of during due to their tiny station keeping drives, DropShips were also heavily armed and armoured and capable of carrying troops onto a planet. Between them there were hundreds of thousands of JumpShips and DropShips travelling thought the Inner Sphere on a daily basis keeping nations together, worlds stocked and armies marching. Lately combat JumpShips known as WarShips had begun to reappear in the Inner Sphere armies these heavily armed, heavily armed vessels could do everything that a JumpShip could do and could travel in as system and wage war against other vessels.
With contact lost to her JumpShips Twyla had set-up her battalion of thirty-eight BattleMechs and regiment of conventional foot infantry around the city, they were now dug in twenty-four hours a day ready for an attack. The Mechs were old but reliable and the pilots all trained by Twyla herself, while the regiment of infantry were little more than armed citizens and would be little more than cannon fodder. In the air the sixteen Aerospace Fighters of the Tortuga Corsairs flew near constantly waiting for an attacker. Aerospace Fighters were capable of space and atmospheric operations making them extremely valuable, having the pilots flying constantly and in the atmosphere was dangerous and expensive but it gave the Fusiliers extra firepower when the enemy arrived, they might even be able to stop the enemy DropShips landing allowing the Fusiliers to push them back and destroy them in space.
“Major, we have enemy DropShips†Cameron ‘Hot-Seat’ Kline reported high above the city just before several, sixteen, smoke trails was seen criss-crossing the city, the Tortuga Corsairs were no-more.
“Dig in people, you know what to do. Jumpers, set-up as many canyons as possible, everyone else we are the bait we get them in then the canyon kills them. Scalphunters, any infantry or vehicles are yours, anyone from Raider’s Roost who interferes is a target as well. You see any disabled Mechs, kill the pilot and the Mech is yours!†Twyla said addressing her troops, the Jump capable Mechs ascended to the highest possible buildings giving them increased range and visibility while the ground-bound Mechs disappeared into the city streets, the Scalphunters or infantry forces began setting up traps throughout the city streets giving them the incentive of capturing and keeping a Mech would make the infantry do anything for her, most would die in the battle but infantry were cheap and you never know one or two might actually get a Mech out of this fight.
Once the Tortuga Fusiliers were set-up there was silence for several minutes “where are they?†One warrior said quietly, his Mech high on one of Raider’s Roost’s many decrepit high-rise buildings. Twyla often wondered how the building remained standing after all these years of neglect her Fusiliers were not engineers and would never stoop to doing repair work, she had always wanted to capture an engineering team and get them to fix the city but they had never found the personnel.
Suddenly everything happened at once from every imaginable direction Aerospace fighters of a type Twyla did not recognise dived in over the city targeting the jump capable Mechs on the rooftops. In less than a minute all but a couple of her canyon Mechs were falling from the rooftops, the warrior so interested in where the enemy were was among them. Twyla was scared, the enemy had hit with such pace and hitting power, but she knew the fight was not over. The only way they could take Tortuga was to take Raider’s Roost and only Mechs with full Infantry and armour support could do that. “Drop to the ground people! We will drop them when they enter the city. We can still survive this, we do or it is prison for the rest of our lives!†She shouted, they were all pirates and criminals they knew what the price of failure was. She saw two surviving Mechs from the canyon forces drop to the ground “you two Panther warriors attach yourselves to my lance†for a light Mech the Panther was a slow but hard hitting design and they would be helpful. The two Panther pilots had other ideas turning tail and running into the city Twyla lashed out with her Awesome’s full PPC battery, the three weapons each fired a bolt of man-made lightning at the retreating Panthers but missed widely instead hitting a small building blowing it to pieces “you cowards!†She screamed slamming the controls as her assault Mech overheated.
Just then things went from bad to worse Mechs dropped into the city all over the place, the enemy was not approaching the city on the ground instead they were dropping from their DropShips high in the sky. Twyla watched one of her warriors target one Mech and hit it with an autocannon blast the enemy Mech lost control and slammed into a building, which exploded as the Mech hit, the entire building crumbled in on itself on top of the emeny Mech. With the enemy Mechs Twyla could see something else as her Awesome regained control, dropping to the ground were smaller targets that looked like tiny Mechs at this distance but as Twyla magnified in on one of the landed troopers she could see that they were Clan Elemental Warriors in Battle Armour.
The Clans operated Elemental Warriors which, from what Twyla knew, were walking walls of muscle and flesh each standing over eight foot tall they operated in squads of five and were deadly to anything from conventional infantry right up to BattleMechs. To make the Elementals even worse each trooper was armed with a laser, a Short Range Missile (SRM) Rack with four missiles, a Battle-claw and an anti-personnel weapon allowing them to seriously damage BattleMech grade armour and conventional infantry soldiers alike. The suit also gave the warriors jump jets allowing them to bound up to thirty metres and armour capable of resisting everything up to a PPC or medium autocannon.
“The Clans…†Twyla said disbelieving her people had come here to avoid the Clan Invasion, they had become pirates by breaking their mercenary contract in an effort to avoid the Clan’s unstoppable invasion forces and now here they were on Tortuga, Twyla was sure they were coming for her a reckoning of some sort. “This cannot be happening†she said watching as five Elemental warriors swarmed over one of her Mechs tearing the Mech to pieces then dragging the pilot out of his Mech’s cockpit throwing him to the ground killing him. It was a favourite tactic of Elementals to leap up onto a Mech and tear into the armour disabling systems forcing the pilot to surrender before they got to him and killed him, Twyla had heard that some Elementals killed surrendering MechWarriors for the simple reason that they could it was the last thing she wanted for her or any of her people. As far as she had known there were no Clan forces anywhere near Tortuga, none. This just confirmed Twyla’s thought that ComStar the shadowy organisation that controlled most of the Inner Sphere’s communications never could be trusted and now her band would pay for their mistake.
Loosing her temper she struck the weapons console firing all three PPCs again the three bolts of man-made lighting soared into the sky and struck an enemy aerospace fighter. The fighter lost control and slammed into the ground exploding, perhaps these Clansmen were not so indestructible Twyla thought as her Mech overheated again, unable to hit the override quick enough the Awesome over heated and shut down. All Twyla could think about was killing as many Clan warriors as possible before they killed her but then felt her assault Mech rock violently as something hit it, in its shutdown immobile state she could do nothing. Then again, and again three more times Twyla Sameral thought someone was shooting her without looking her in the eye but that was not the case, she knew that a single weapons barrage would have knocked her Mech on its back drawing her personal pistol she steadied herself for her greatest fear and Elemental assault.
Outside on the Awesome were five Elementals, one tore open the hatch and broke into the Awesome’s cockpit ignoring Twyla’s weapons fire physically ripping the pilot’s chair from the Mech’s head and throwing it on the ground. The impact of falling almost ten metres and landing on her bottom crushed Twyla’s spine and broke several ribs causing internal organ damage, she was helpless as the Clan Elementals surrounded her massive hulking soldiers that looked like walls of steel in their thick battle armour. The Elementals removed her from the seat and then removed Twyla from all her clothes leaving her naked in the street, how she had left so many like this since taking control of Tortuga. Forced her to her feet, which was painful and difficult Twyla was dragged through the streets as the slaughter of the Tortuga Fusiliers continued for the next hour. By the end of it Twyla barely conscious and tied up in one of the courtyards naked, beaten and in massive amounts of pain from her injuries, she now knew what all those people she had put through similar procedures felt like, she felt sick not only from her injuries but from what she had done once she had been an honourable mercenary but fear had driven her to lash out at others, if she had remained the honourable Mercenary she may have died just the same and a lot quicker but she would have felt better about herself when it happened. She was joined by three other survivors from the Fusiliers and several hundred civilians in the courtyard as the fighting still continued in some areas of the city no doubt some of her troops trying to escape and being hunted down by these demon Clan warriors.
One Elemental spoke up, its voice amplified by the suit’s speakers giving it a mechanical alien sound. “For crimes against humanity, we the warriors of Clan Nova Cat find you guilty.†As one Elemental fired a single shot into one prisoner’s head killing him instantly. The Elemental stepped back and another stepped up behind the next prisoner “For killing Khan Severn Lervoux of Clan Nova Cat, we find you guilty.†The warrior said firing a single shot again killing the prisoner and again stepping backwards for another Elemental to step forward all along they were getting closer to where Twyla knelt.
Twyla sitting at the end of the row tried to compose herself but burst into tears, this morning she had been Pirate Queen of this city and the surrounding cities and worlds and had been feared by everyone in the Tortuga Dominions, the Taurian Concordat and the Federated Suns Periphery Regions. Now she was battered, naked, humiliated, beaten and about to die. “For killing saKhan Lucian Carns we find you guilty.†The next Elemental said killing the next prisoner, Twyla was now the only prisoner remaining alive. “For forcing us to fight in the city risking civilian and collateral property damage†the Elemental said “and causing destruction on your own subjects†The warrior said Twyla closed her eyes and tried to remain calm as the armoured Elemental raised its arm.
“No please, I can help you, I can control the people, I can point out targets, I know where resources are, please don‘t kill me!†Twyla said rapidly begging for her life as she tried to look over her shoulder at the Elemental.
“We find you guilty†the Elemental said, the voice totally devoid of emotion or hesitation, firing a single shot, the rifle round caught Twyla in the left side of the head, the bullet travelled across her brain and out the other-side of her head killing the pirate queen instantly the last thing to go through Twyla‘s head was relief it was all over. “Anyone resisting Clan Nova Cat will be dealt with quickly and harshly. We are beginning a curfew at 17.00 Hours make sure you are home by then or you will be dealt with. Your queries will be dealt with in time. Now go about your lives!†The Elemental said to the crowd releasing them from the courtyard, several of the civilians looked at the bodies of the executed prisoners then hurried away not wanting to be next, these Clan warriors were in charge there was no question about that in anyone‘s mind. By the end of the day the Nova Cats were in control of the city and everyone knew who they were and who was their new masters, although some of Tortuga’s Fusiliers were unaccounted for the pirates who had been in charge had effectively ceased to exist. The Nova Cats released the Fusiliers slaves and ordered them to get inside somewhere by the beginning of the curfew, most were too shocked to try anything silly and crawled into one of the hundreds of open, abandoned Raider‘s Reach buildings.
At 17.00 Hours the Nova Cats began patrolling the streets, anyone found outsider after the beginning of the curfew was taken to a public square and tied up for the night outside with no provisions or shelter, if they survived the Nova Cats would let them go but with a warning, ‘get caught again and they would get a bullet instead of humiliation.’ After the first night the Nova Cats found very little people willing to try the Nova Cat’s new rules of law and order. For the most part people welcomed the change from raping, murder and pillaging to the peace under the gun policy of the Nova Cats.
Hope you enjoy comment's questions welcome
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Whitting Conference Centre
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Alliance
1st October 3058
The Succession Lords, leaders of the five main Inner Sphere states and two minor states had gathered together within four walls, a sight not seen in hundreds of year not seen since the fall of the first Star League and the departure of their army. Now they were together looking towards the possibility of forming a Second Star League, this League would be used against the invading Clans stopping their invasion once and for all. Standing at the podium Archon Katherine (Katrina) Steiner-Davion leader of the Lyran Alliance. “Leaders of the Inner Sphere, Welcome to Tharkad. Today is perhaps the most important day that any generation has faced in hundreds of years, instead of planning our next war against our neighbour or each other today we can plan a future of peace under the banner of a new Star League. Today we all have to work together to ensure future generations never face a Succession War on the scale of the generations before, we have to ensure that the Inner Sphere has an answer to the Clan threat and the possible threats we have to each other. Thank You.†She said stepping to one side sitting on a chair behind the House Steiner section of the Table.
From the other side of the table Archon-Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, Victor was the Federated Commonwealth and technically the Lyran Alliance. Katherine, his younger sister, had stolen the Lyran half of his realm and so far he had left her to it concentrating on rebuilding the Federated Commonwealth’s battered defences. “Some of us are enemies, we will always be enemies†Victor said with all of his usual tact, he was a MechWarrior first and a politician a far second, “however, we all face a far more deadly enemy than each other. When the Clans invaded in 3050 they steamrolled almost every unit we threw at them and although now we have more advanced technology capable of competing with the Clans, are rebuilding our armies and are more capable in resisting their forces we still face five first-rate Clans. All Clans deployed in the Inner Sphere are intent on destroying our militaries and turning our people into mindless followers like their own. According to intelligence there are over ten more Clans waiting to join them we must resist and we must act together, if we show them we are strong they will think again before attacking again. I urge each of you to join the Federated Commonwealth in voting for the reformation of the Star League Defence Force (SLDF). Thank You†He said sitting back down, Thomas Marik Captain-General of the Free Worlds League moved to stand however Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao of the Capellan Confederation stood first looking menacingly at Victor.
“I like you all see the benefits of having a Second Star League, however, this new League will need a First Lord and a Commanding-General. I would like to submit that Victor Steiner-Davion is suitable for nether post, he had shown a lack of respect for other nations borders and he has shown a willingness to use force when diplomacy was a better tactic.†The Capellan leader said sitting back down. Duke Kai Allard-Liao at the St Ives table stood, beside his mother, and the leader of St Ives Compact, Duchess Candice Allard-Liao, Sun-Tzu’s aunt. The St Ives Compact’s fifteen worlds had once been part of the Capellan Confederation and had broken free with Federated Commonwealth help during the last Succession War, the Fourth, a Succession War the Federated Suns had nearly destroyed the Capellan Confederation.
“Sun-Tzu, Victor is quite possibly the most capable leader of men, and women, in this room and could fight circles around any of us on the open battlefield. Along with his personnel experience against the Clans I would submit that if the Star League was to be formed and that Victor was not named First Lord then that he should be made the first Commanding-General, in our fight against our common foe - the Clans.†Kai said sitting down he exchanged looks with Victor both men had been friends for years, even serving together in the Tenth Lyran Guards fighting the Clans and the St Ives Compact owed its independence to Victor’s father, Hanse Davion, Kai would support his friend and ally anyway possible.
“Of course the son of a Davion spy master would say that!†Sun-Tzu said remaining seated Kai‘s father Justin had been a deep cover agent for House Davion during the Fourth Succession War and his efforts had helped House Davion destroy and capture over half of the Capellan Confederation.
“Never speak of my father again Sun-Tzu if you do my Lancers will hit Sian and you will not have a Confederation.†Kai said naming the Capellan Capital World, the St Ives Lancers led by Kai, who was considered to be the best warrior of his generation, could do a lot of damage to the Confederation although conquering them was probably not possible for the tiny breakaway state it was still a threat worth worrying about for Sun-Tzu who could little afford the renegade parts of his family returning to Sian to haunt him.
“You threaten me on this auspicious day, young duke, do you try and spark another Succession War with your words?†Sun-Tzu said trying to goad Kai into a response, Candice Liao laid a hand on her son’s hand holding him down and trying to calm him.
“Gentlemen, this gets us nowhere. We are here to re-establish the Star League not bicker, I suggest a thirty minute recess.†Thomas Marik said several of the delegates nodded, Sun-Tzu immediately left not waiting for the meeting to be abjurned.
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Hall of the Khans
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
2nd October 3058
Meanwhile the Khans of the remaining seventeen Clans sat together on the Clan Homeworlds far from the Inner Sphere, this was their first council in several weeks and the first time that many had been on the same planet as each other. Over the time since their creation following the Exodus Civil War centuries before three Clans had fallen, the Not-named (Wolverines) annihilated from Clan records due to their use of Nuclear weapons against Clan Snow Raven‘s Genetic Repository and their wish to use democracy over the Clan rules established by Nicholas Kerensky. The Mongoose and Widowmakers absorbed by larger Clans that wanted more space to expand and found smaller clans in their way. When it came to invading the Inner Sphere the others were divided over Crusader and Warden lines, those who wanted to conqueror the Inner Sphere and those who wanted to join the Inner Sphere protecting and guiding it in a golden age of humanity. At present with five Clans holding territory in the Inner Sphere gained through combat the Crusaders held a far larger hold in the Clan Council.
“My Khans we have encountered many hurdles but we still stand firm.†ilKhan Lincoln Osis, the Khan of Clan Smoke Jaguar and the current elder of all the Clans, Osis glanced around the room and then spotted an oddity the Hall of the Khans was for Khan and saKhan, the two leaders of any Clan, at the Clan Nova Cat table sat a Galaxy Commander, Karl Devalis, and the Nova Cat Oathmaster, Biccon Winters. Despite the oddity of Clan Nova Cat in general and their recent switch from Crusader to Warden Politics the Nova Cats knew that at least one of the Khans had to be present. “I see the Nova Cat’s Khans have not deemed to appear to us. Are we the Khans of their fellow Clans not worthy of their presence? Speak now or face our Grievance.†He said looking over at the two present Nova Cats, the Galaxy Commander began to stand however Biccon Winters stood instead. The Nova Cat Oathmaster was like the ilKhan an Elemental warrior, however following her gaining of a Bloodname, surname, she had become the Nova Cat’s spiritual leader instead of pursing a life as leader of the Clan.
In the Clans the only true surname a warrior could wear, other than the Clan name, was a Bloodname. The Bloodnames had been created to honour the two hundred warriors that had fought with Nicholas Kerensky following the formation of the Clans. Each Clan had access to their own set of Bloodnames plus a limited access to other Clan’s Bloodname houses. All Bloodnames were won by Trials of Bloodrite, one-on-one combat trials.
“My honourable Clans, I am Oathmaster Biccon Winters, I regret to inform you that during their return from an inspection of deep space observation and scientific installations our Khan’s vessel miss-jumped and is missing presumed lost, with all hands. Until replacement Nova Cat warriors prove themselves strong enough for Khanship we†she said opening her arms to include the Galaxy Commander “will represent Nova Cat interests at this Council.†The Nova Cats could not afford to allow any of the Clans to know the real reason the Khans were dead. If the Nova Cat dealings in the Tortuga Dominions became public knowledge among the other Clans the Nova Cat’s tiny force remaining in the Clan Homeworlds would find itself the target of retribution and the Clans may attempt to attack the Nova Cats in the Tortuga Dominions and surrounding periphery, for now the Nova Cats had to keep secrets, their survival depended on it and although it was dishonourable the Nova Cat had to survive.
“I can accept their presence and I have a question for the Nova Cat representatives†the Ice Hellion saKhan Sellen Cage said, she was quite a striking woman in her late twenties her massive bulk of muscle and her tremendous height showed her to be a genetically bred elemental Warrior however she actually piloted an OmniMech, also unlike many elementals she looked completely normal a large factor in this was that she kept her golden hair long. “Where is the Nova Cat Touman and Merchants? We were always visited by at least one of your Clan’s Merchant Carracks and we used to engage Nova Cat forces on a regular basis in training and in minor trials that benefited both our Clans. Now you have disappeared almost like the Burrocks or Blood Spirits†she said making references to two of the smaller Clans. Looking at the Nova Cats before Biccon could answer Galaxy Commander Karl Devalis stood and bowed slightly to the Khan.
“saKhan Ice Hellion†he said respecting her rank and Clan as they did not know each other personally, normally Khans would speak to each other using their first names to save miscommunication from many warriors with the same Bloodname. By using the Clan name instead of hers Karl was ensuring there was no miss-communication. “The Nova Cat Touman has been and always will be where it has to be to answer any challenge and any threat to our population, our Merchants have been maintaining links with our allies†the Khans of Clans Diamond Shark, Snow Raven and Cloud Cobra all nodded their heads in agreement, the Nova Cats had maintained strong links with each of those Clans keeping their power base and support in the Homeworlds while moving their forces from the Homeworlds, however not even the Nova Cat’s allies knew what they were up to. “Perhaps the Merchant Caste overlooked your base on Babylon this trading cycle. I will ensure that they are informed of this oversight and it will be corrected immediately you have my word on this matter, no offence was intended.†The Ice Hellion Khan nodded and sat down smiling in Karl‘s direction.
“I also have a question, Galaxy Commander†Lincoln Osis said looking at Karl “during the last several months the Nova Cats have initiated thirty-two Trials of Possession against various Clans. Although your Clan has won the majority of these I notice the Nova Cats have withdrawn almost completely to Dagda, Circe and their posts here on Strana Mechty. Your territory in Clan space is not large enough to house your entire Clan and your forces. You did not compete for or win a place in Operation Revival so the Inner Sphere cannot be your destination. Also Clan Smoke Jaguar’s Watch intelligence suggests that over three quarters of your Naval Forces are missing. Where are your forces and your lower castes?â€
“As our Clan is without a Khan or saKhan at present, I feel it would be wrong of me to divulge critical information, especially when other Clan may try to gain advantage of the situation. All I am willing to say is that the territory held by the Nova Cats violates no Clan law and that we have not attacked a single Inner Sphere world or moved our forces into any of the Inner Sphere occupation zones. Star Colonel Santin West is travelling from Dagda to join the other candidates for Khanship at an undisclosed location, once he has arrived the Trials will begin and you will have your answer within two weeks.†Biccon said standing beside Karl, Biccon was an Elemental like the Ice Hellion Khan so she dwarfed the MechWarrior however it was Karl who had their attention, as the most junior warrior present, they were all assessing him.
“I am the ilKhan, you will divulge this information now.†Lincoln Osis said, Biccon looked to Karl, who nodded, Biccon sat down and looked over at the Galaxy Commander despite the fact she was sitting she was still as tall as Karl.
“ilKhan, allow me to speak plainly as is my Clan’s custom, you are the war-leader of the Clan Invasion of the Inner Sphere a post won and hold well.†Karl said Lincoln smiled at this praise, not often he heard such praise from anyone let alone his Clans biggest rival and enemy, ilKhanship had its perks. “However, you are also a member of Clan Smoke Jaguar and no Smoke Jaguar will hear of Nova Cat affairs until they need to be aware of the Nova Cat crashing into their Den.†Karl said Lincoln looked like he would explode as Karl sat back down alongside Biccon.
“Do not threaten me or my Clan, Devalis, if you do your entire Clan will face my wrath.†Osis said looking down at Karl.
“I meant no offence ilKhan, however, the Nova Cats have felt a Smoke Jaguars wrath before, the Nova Cat have always survived and always will survive. If you wish to test our resolve then that is your choice, however I would not want your Clan overstretching itself.†Karl returned immediately the entire time he remaining seated not moving, Osis moved onto his next topic. Looking at the ilKhan Karl guessed Lincoln was enjoying the limelight before he and the Smoke Jaguars were knocked off of power, from the look on the ilKhan‘s face the part of ‘overstretching‘ the Smoke Jaguar power had hit a cord, perhaps the Smoke Jaguars were overstretched. A weakness the Nova Cats could exploit?
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Raider’s Roost Spaceport
Nova Cat Occupied Territory
Tortuga Prime, Periphery
13th October 3058
After a long trip aboard the Black Lion-class WarShip Thunderbolt Star Colonel Santin West arrived on the Nova Cats new Homeworld, known as Tortuga Prime the world had been a pirate world since its colonization but now the old Nova Cat Khans had chosen this world and the six surrounding it as their new home. Due to the Clan/ComStar agreement following the ComGuard victory on Tukayyid, which stated no Clan forces could cross the Tukayyid Truce line for fifteen years, the Nova Cats had kept their movements and presence completely secret, even the other Clans knew nothing about their movements.
As the Sacred Rite, a Noruff-class assault DropShip, landed Santin looked out the observation windows at the desolate world, strange place to make a new home he though silently. He also noted that at least a cluster of troops were on guard around the spaceport and more Nova Cats were patrolling the streets keeping control of a curfew. Once the DropShip had been grounded a MechWarrior boarded the DropShip and appeared before Santin “Star Colonel West†it wasn’t a question but Santin nodded acknowledgement anyway, “I am MechWarrior Zane. I was sent to take you and your command point to the base.â€
“Why do I need a Mech for transport? Surely an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) would work just as well and be a far more effective mode of transport and resources, Quineg?†He said using the interrogative, Clansmen used ‘Quineg’ when they thought the answer to a question was no and ‘Quiaff’ when the thought the answer was yes.
“Neg, Star Colonel, there has been some insurgency forces operating in the city. The other worlds have been hostile to us but Tortuga is causing us the most grief at present. So much so we have moved our Civilians out of the city. We have them camped outside the capital where they are being protected by the majority of our forces. The Command Base is in one of these bases, around fifteen minutes by Mech.â€
“Very Well, I will suit up and you can take me on a little tour of this world.†He said intentionally omitting the name Zane had used as far as he was concerned the word Tortuga did not exist anymore, as soon as he won the Khanship that would be the first thing to change.
“Aff Star Colonel, my Arctic Cheetah awaits.†Zane said proudly turning leaving the DropShip cargo ramps and making his way over to his Mech, the Arctic Cheetah was a thirty ton machine and was the most popular light class OmniMechs used by Clan Nova Cat’s front-line forces. An OmniMech was an advanced version of a standard BattleMech generally they were more expensive and used more cutting edge tech than standard machines but they also had one distinct advantage, they could change weapons and equipment configurations within the spell of a few hours meaning a front-line brawler in the morning could be a sniper or fire-support Mech in the afternoon.
Half an hour later Santin West and his entire bodyguard point were suited up in their Elemental battle armour. An OmniMech was designed to carry five Elemental suits as if it was an APC carrying Mechanized Infantry, like the ground based APCs carrying Mechanised Infantry the OmniMech did not suffer from any disadvantages while carrying five Elementals. Moving out the five suits lit their battle armour’s jump jets and all leapt up onto the of the Arctic Cheetah, MechWarrior Zane adjusted the OmniMech’s balance to compensate for five extra tons of Battle Armour cargo and then without pause or communication accelerated the OmniMech to its top speed of one hundred-and-thirty kilometres per hour (kph). The highly trained Elementals moved into positions and anchored themselves to the Arctic Cheetah’s back keeping low so not to effect the OmniMech’s performance.
Running out of the spaceport Santin could see from his vantage point on the Mech that the streets were almost empty. With the Nova Cats out in force no-one was venturing out of their homes. Running down the streets Zane glanced at the sensor display, which was augmented by an advanced active probe, something was wrong twice he had seen something large moving but there were no Nova Cats deployed in this area. Normally he would not be bothered but on the back of his Mech was possibly the next leader of their Clan. “Star Colonel West, hang on†he said glancing at the sensors he saw something again, igniting the Arctic Cheetah’s six leg and back jump jets launching the Mech one hundred-and-eighty metres into the sky, the Mech’s speed carried it forward and out of the path of two PPC bolts which ripped through the space they had just been occupying, the man-made lighting struck a building crumpling an entire wall as the energy tried to dissipate. That kind of attack would have crippled or destroyed the Arctic Cheetah ripping through the rear armour like paper and damaging internal systems, the Elemental riding ‘piggy back’ would also have suffered grievous damage maybe death.
Instead of picking a crippled Mech up off the ground Zane landed the Arctic Cheetah nimbly “Star Colonel West dismount, cover ninety, Echo†he said directing them to the right, into a small shop they could use for cover. The genetically-engineered Battle Armoured infantrymen moved quickly crashing into the building, Zane turned his OmniMech he saw a pair of damaged thirty ton Panther’s, a popular light BattleMech in the Draconis Combine and with pirates. These Panther’s both bore the Tortuga Fusiliers insignia of a Goblet with a pair of dice, they were among the last survivors of the Nova Cats invasion. Looking at the Mechs Zane realised that neither was as fast as his Arctic Cheetah however both together weighted in at twice the weight of the Arctic Cheetah and even with their obsolete technology they heavily outgunned the light Mech. Both enemy Mechs were however damaged “a fare fight then†he said “I MechWarrior Zane…†he began as one of the Panther’s opened fire with its PPC missing by a hair “as you wish, Stavag dogs, you shall die with no honour.†Zane said opening fire with two Extended-Range Medium-class lasers and a single Medium Pulse Laser on each target, the heat level inside the Mech’s cockpit raised significantly but Zane could handle it and slapped an override.
Engaging multiple targets was against Clan fighting traditions however these people had attacked without attempting to engage in honourable combat, they were below such an honour to fight a Clansmen in combat, they were dezgra and would be treated as such with no quarter given. The lasers struck both Mechs, one of the lasers hit the left hand side Mech on the head flooring the Mech but not killing the warrior outright or destroying the Mech he would be back, the other three lasers did light damage to both Mechs. The other Panther stunned by his assault and the fate befalling his companion turned and ran trying to escape, Zane glanced at the downed Mech decided it was no threat and he charged after the retreating Mech.
Further down the road the retreating Mech was too slow to escape and Zane caught up with a brisk walk, pressing down on the weapon triggers pulse laser and standard lasers converged and slammed into the back of the Panther vaporizing the minimal armour protection there and damaging the Panther’s fusion engine causing it to explode in a ball of flame destroying the Mech in an instant, the warrior tried to eject however the fireball consumed him and the seat flew into the sky ablaze.
Back down the street a family cowered in their shop watching the battle unfold, the pirates that had destroyed their lives and taken what they wanted when they wanted but these Clansmen had arrived and destroyed all that, now these alien Elementals fully clad in Battle Armour sheltered in the front of their store. The owner of the store grabbed a double-barrelled shotgun and stood up “get out of my shop!†he shouted firing at one of the suits striking the Elemental’s left arm, doing some superficial damage. The suited solider turned around on the fore of its helmet sat a dark-blue circle and a yellow sunburst.
“No, do not fire!†he said to the Elementals, the four troopers stepped back “I am not your enemy, the Nova Cats are not your enemies the pirates who destroyed your life are your enemy. We Nova Cats will deal with them and they will never threaten you again, you have my word.†The damaged Elemental said out loud raising his arms. Swapping over to internal communications West spoke to the other Elementals “We must end this, time to bring down that Panther, we must permanently end this threat to the city, and then we can see to mending old wounds.†Then all five troopers ran from the building running straight at the fallen Panther just as the Mech began to regain its feet. At around sixty metres the Elementals opened fire with their SRM backpacks rocking the Panther and causing damage all over the Light Mech but nothing that would disable or destroy it. The warriors then ignited their suit’s jump jets rocketing up onto the pirate Mech.
On the BattleMech the five Elementals manoeuvred around the Panther firing their arm mounted lasers and attacking with their battle claw arms cutting armour. Santin West was almost on the Mech’s helmet/cockpit within less than a minute, the warrior was obviously not used to battle armour and had barely put up a fight against the Elemental’s assault waving his arms around doing little to dissuade the Elemental’s movements. Once on the cockpit West opened fire with his laser damaging the armour already damaged by the Arctic Cheetah’s laser then with one fluid movement he slammed the Battle Claw through the window and grabbed the warrior inside. West’s own impressive strength was augmented by the suit and the Battle Claw and it easily pierced the MechWarrior’s coolant vest and his bare chest underneath, skin broke followed by bones and organs. With one fluid movement West pulled the warrior through the smashed canopy and threw him to the ground below, the Panther ceased moving its pilot and brain gone. Santin West stood on the Mech’s head as the MechWarrior bleed out below, activating his suit’s loudspeakers as the Arctic Cheetah moved back down the street.
“Inhabitants of this City, the old Raider’s Roost is gone. The Tortuga Fusiliers are destroyed and will never return, if any other pirate lands here they will die. We are Clan Nova Cat descendants of the great Alexandr Kerensky’s Star League Army, we have come here to begin a fresh, outside the corrupt Inner Sphere and away from the in-fighting of the Clans. However, we cannot do this alone.†He said around the street people began moving out of the surrounding buildings even as more Nova Cat forces arrived, “to build a new Dominions and a new prosperous Clan Nova Cat we need you. Now there are two ways, either we can maintain a constant curfew and kill any that challenges us or we can maintain the peace together, it is your choice.†He said moments he, and his bodyguard point, jumped up onto the Arctic Cheetah and out of the city they rode reaching the Nova Cat base within a couple of minutes even before the salvage/security teams collected the pirate‘s equipment and got to work boarding up damaged buildings, techs took the names of the citizens with damaged property.
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Whitting Conference Centre
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Alliance
14th October 3058
As the Conference reached the end of its second week Anastasius Focht, Precentor-Martial (Military leader) of ComStar, stepped up to the podium to address the Succession Lords. ComStar controlled the Hyper-Pulse-Generator (HPG) Grid that allowed communication throughout the Inner Sphere as well as an not so insignificant military force that had held back the Clans in 3050. Although ComStar no longer controlled Terra, at the centre of the Inner Sphere, the fighting prowess of the ComGuard fighting the Clans on Tukayyid winning a fifteen year peace for the Inner Sphere had gained them entry as a non-voting member of the new League.
“Honourable Lords†he began, Anastasius hailed from the Steiner realm so he had a slight Germanic accent but his time with ComStar had dulled it slightly. “Originally ComStar had pledged to see this Star League formed and form the core of its military as we seek to hold back the Clan threat. Today however I bring you something more, two days ago ComStar received the location of Huntress, Homeworld of Clan Smoke Jaguar from a member of that very Clan. This Clan has conquered Luthien we threw them back but they will come again unless we deal with the threat they pose.†There was a murmur throughout the room at this news, so far no Inner Sphere organisation had found the location of any of the Clan Homeworlds, although several expeditions had been sent.
“And what are we to do with this information? There are more Clans based solely in the Homeworlds, we would be hard pressed to push them out of the Inner Sphere let alone destroy them in their Homeworlds. This information changes nothing.†Sun-Tzu Liao said waving his arms in disgust at the information presented.
“It changes a lot, Sun-Tzu†Victor said quietly not even looking at the Capellan leader, his eyes were fixated on the ComGuard Precentor-Martial “we have successfully shown the Clans that the Inner Sphere can beat them in combat and using misdirection Tukayyid, Coventry, Luthien and Wolcott.†He said naming the four most famous Inner Sphere victories against the Clans, there were more but these were the ones that stood in the minds of the peoples of the Inner Sphere. “With the location of one of their Homeworlds we can strike back and force them to come to our the peace tables.†He said continuing without loosing a beat “I believe that the new Leagues first business should be to end the Clan threat by assaulting and taking one of their Homeworlds.â€
“I believe the Star League should contain the Clan threat no-more. To assault their Homeworlds would only bring them down on our nations even more.†Elected-Prince (Regent) Christian Mansdotter leader of the Free Rasalhague Republic said, no shock that he wanted to contain the Clans his nation had been reduced to seven worlds by the Clan Invasion of 3050 and the only reason the nation was still independent was due to the presence of a large portion of the ComGuards in the Republic based on Tukayyid.
“If we only contain the Clans then in the long run we could loose even more worlds to the Clans, we have lost enough. It is time for the Clans to suffer a blow closer to home.†Hohiro Kurita leader of the Draconis Combine said, the Combine had almost lost Luthien, its capital, and Hohiro had lost his father and grandfather during the failed first defence of that world. His nation had only reclaimed the world with help from the entire Inner Sphere.
“I suggest we call for a vote of a new First Lord before we choose what the new army should do.†Thomas Marik said standing behind the Free Worlds League table, despite his advanced age and his scared face Thomas Marik still abounded with confidence and stature.
“Agreed, the St Ives Compact nominates First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion.†Candice Liao said using the old title of the Federated Suns instead of the title of the Federated Commonwealth. Despite the ending of the alliance the Federated Suns half of the Commonwealth held onto hope and Victor still held the old FedCom rank of Archon-Prince and the Federated Suns was still officially known as the Federated Commonwealth.
“Does Archon-Prince Victor Steiner-Davion accept this nomination?â€
“I do, chairperson†Victor said quietly.
“I do not†Sun-Tzu Liao said from the Capellan Confederation table, no surprise the Capellan Confederation had been cut in half by the Federated Suns, with the power of the Star League Victor could finish what his father started.
“Unfortunately, if another seconds Victor Steiner-Davion’s nomination all you can do is vote against him, Chancellor.†The chair person said.
“I second Victor Steiner-Davion’s nomination, despite our disagreement with the suggested course of the New SLDF, Victor has shown his worth in operations against the Clans before and will do so in the future.†Christian Mansdotter leader of the Free Rasalhague Republic said, again not a shock the Free Rasalhague Republic had been crushed by the Clan assaults Victor had shown a capability and a willing to face the Clan threat.
“With two nominations Victor Steiner-Davion of the Federated Commonwealth is put forward for the position of First Lord of the new Star League. Is there a challenger?†The chairperson said.
“I nominate Thomas Marik, Captain-General of the Free Worlds League.†Katrina Steiner-Davion said there was a collective breath from the audience boxes high above and a couple of the tables around the room, anything to get in Victor’s way she would pounce on Katrina wanted the position herself but in a straight fight between them Victor would likely win, Thomas Marik was the elder statesman of the Inner Sphere respected by all and with the Free Worlds League his leadership had become the model way of leadership in the Inner Sphere while Victor was known for his warrior skill not his politics.
“I will second this†Sun-Tzu said from his table looking over to Thomas Marik who nodded his thanks, they had allied with Theodore Kurita to counter the Federated Commonwealth Alliance before the Fourth Succession War there was no reason for them not to be allied again.
“Captain-General Thomas Marik do you accept this nomination?â€
“I humbly do.â€
“Unless there is a third nomination, no-one spoke up, there will be a short recess before the vote is taken.†The chairperson said leaving the chamber. “The two leaders nominated for the position of First Lord are Archon-Prince (First Prince) Victor Steiner-Davion of the Federated Commonwealth (Suns) and Captain-General Thomas Marik of the Free Worlds League. This session is at an end, reconvene in one hour.†The Chairperson said breaking up the council for now. Katrina sat looking watching Victor leave, she could not allow Victor to gain power in the Star League he might use it to regain control over the Lyran-half of his realm.
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Hall of the Smoke Jaguar
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
14th October 3058
Sitting in the Great Hall of his Clan ilKhan Lincoln Osis looked over at his saKhan Brandon Howell, although he was a Smoke Jaguar the ilKhanship set him aside from leadership duties of the Clan so he could concentrate on overall clan matters he was still a Jaguar Warrior. “We need to find out what the Nova Cats are up to†he said looking at his deputy.
“ilKhan, the Nova Cats have shown they have no interest in the invasion and have just lost both Khans. They are insignificant to our Clan’s plans for the Inner Sphere and Terra.†Khan Brandon Howell said, reporting the basic Nova Cat position as stated by the Nova Cat Khans before the Invasion Began.
“Are you so sure†Osis said looking to the saKhan, “every Clan has a secret ambition to conqueror Terra whether they are Warden or Crusader, I believe the Nova Cats are using their sudden Warden leanings as a shroud to cover their true movements. in the last few months the Nova Cats have initiated over a dozen trials, to their allies the Diamond Sharks, Cloud Cobras and Snow Ravens they have lost with little loss other than the trial objective. Against their enemies they have fought hard and cost their enemies heavy damage especially those Clans who have invaded the Inner Sphere and those with a need to concentrate on other areas. The Nova Cats are up to something find out, direct all Watch efforts to finding them. Have our Homeworld sources check all Nova Cat strongholds, I want to know numbers and positions. And get me a full run up on Karl Devalis, the Galaxy Commander on Strana Mechty, I want to destroy him in the next council meeting instead of being made to look like an idiot again.â€
“ilKhan, the Watch has been directed to the Inner Sphere War effort, the Draconis Combine and Free Rasalhague Republic populations have proven difficult to subdue.†Brandon said outlining the situation in the inner sphere, the civilians of the Inner Sphere worlds captured had not welcomed the Clan forces but had opposed them venomously with several underhand tactics, guerrilla tactics, car bombings and assassinations were common and taking their toll on the invasion forces.
“I do not care about the inner sphere!†Osis shouted at the saKhan “they will fall in line once we control Terra and we are declared ilClan. The Nova Cats are a potential threat to that plan, order the Watch to find them now!†He said completely loosing his temper. Both Khans were taken aback by this outburst but neither spoke as orders were drawn up to recall units and agents of the fledgling Clan Intelligence agency.
Khan Trials, Nova Cat Command Base
Nova Cat Occupied Territory
Tortuga Prime, Periphery
14th October 3058
After a short period to adjust Star Colonel Santin West waited anxiously for the Trials to begin, he had fought several trials in his lifetime however none were as important as this, today he would fight for leadership of the Nova Cat Clan. Behind him stood MechWarrior Zane, the warrior who had save him from ambush “MechWarrior, I ask you one thing. What do you think of our current path?â€
“It secures our Clan’s future in the short term, however, we are close to the borders of the Federated Suns, one of the stronger Successor States. Even with our fleet defending these systems we are venerable. At present we only have the Clan Homeworlds Factories producing Mechs, Battle Armour and fighters, if we were attacked our supply lines would be stretched. Also these worlds are not the promised land we had come to expect from worlds closer to the Inner Sphere. In many ways they are like many worlds in the Kerensky Cluster before terra-forming efforts.†Zane said summing up their situation quite quickly although these former pirate worlds secured their future in the short term they had little potential for a long term future.
“I agree. MechWarrior Zane of what house are you?†Santin asked querying the Bloodhouse the warrior belonged, in the Clans Bloodnames mattered more than rank in many places, becoming the holder of a Bloodname was the ultimate goal of warriors it showed they were the elite of the elite and it meant their genes would eternally survive in the Clan Eugenitics Program.
“Carns†Zane said quietly naming Wolf Bloodhouse, the Nova Cats only held one position in the Carns Bloodhouse a position they had won centuries before, which Lucian Carns the previous Khan vacated upon his death, the Nova Cats would need to defend their claim to the place.
“Zane you saved my life, you will get your chance for that Bloodname if I survive, victorious or not, I promise.†He said glancing over at the MechWarrior who smiled briefly then returned to attention “now leave me, I must prepare.â€
“Good Luck, OvKhan†Zane said regarding Santin as his superior although not a true Khan, not yet OvKhan was a word for respect and of those destined for a higher purpose and rank. Without another word Zane moved out of the room leaving the Star Colonel alone.
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Whitting Conference Centre
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Alliance
14th October 3058
The chairperson stood in front of the House Lords as the vote for the First Lordship was about to begin “We will begin with the Lyran Alliance Vote and continue around until all members have voted, in event of a tie ComStar will have the deciding vote as the neutral force present. Archon Steiner you vote please†He said looking at Katrina’s table, the Lyran ruler stood and nodded briefly at him then turned to her fellow House Lords and the gathered audience above.
“As I nominated Thomas Marik for this position I will vote for the Captain-General†she said nodding to Thomas “I believe that Thomas is a more capable and stable leader than my brother will ever be and that his military are one hundred percent reliable unlike those of the Federated Suns.†She said twisting the dagger as much as possible, several Lyran house units were in the Federated Commonwealth (Suns) and several Federated units were in the Lyran half of the fractured Commonwealth loyalties were being tested every day by their Lyran superiors and by Katherine herself. Although some regiments had agreed to serve Katherine other openly opposed her and even though they all had helped keep the Lyran Alliance alive by their actions and their sacrifices against the Clans and against internal enemies of the Alliance they were often treated as enemies of the state by the Lyrans.
“Thank you, Lady Steiner.†The Lyran Chairperson said showing where his loyalties and beliefs resided, even if it was only to Katherine. “Next is Chancellor Liao of the Capellan Confederation, Chancellor pleaseâ€
“Of course we will vote Marik also, none of Hanse Davion’s Spawn will ever hold the First Lordship as long as I stand alive.†The Capellan leader said not even bothering to stand or acknowledge the chairman both Victor and Katherine gave Sun-Tzu nasty looks, Hanse Davion was one of the most accomplished modern leaders, as well as being their father he deserved their respect if not love.
“With two votes caste the vote stands with Thomas Marik on two votes and Victor Steiner-Davion on none. Next vote to be caste is Duchess Candice Liao leader of the St Ives Compact.â€
“Commonality†Sun-Tzu whispered the Compact‘s old Confederation name, Candice ignored her nephew’s comment and stood gracefully bowing to the Chairman.
“The St Ives Compact will vote for the Federated Commonwealth leader, Victor Steiner-Davion. As has been pointed out already Victor has faced the Clans in combat personally, and won, this League is being formed specifically to combat the threat they pose. We need a leader who knows how to fight them.†She said sitting Kai Allard-Liao gave Victor the thumbs up, Victor smiled and nodded his thanks.
“Coordinator Kurita, will the Draconis Combine please place its vote.â€
“The Federated Suns has long been the Combine’s enemy, however against the Clan Invasion they have been steadfast allies and kept every word that Hanse Davion gave my Family on Outreach.†He said referring to the several months all the Succession Lords had spent on Outreach training to fight the Clans on the Homeworld of the Wolf Dragoons Mercenaries, former clansmen themselves. “However, the Free Worlds League has kept the militaries of the Inner Sphere standing while the Juggernaut of the Clans stormed through our worlds. In my view both of the men nominated are worthy of this prize and I am not willing to choose one over the other with a simple flick of the wrist. The Draconis Combine Abstains.†Hohiro said sitting down, he and Victor had fought together and respected each other and Victor had become romantically involved with Hohiro’s sister Omiko during the Clan conflict, however, showing such allegiance at the Star League could still up trouble at home and in the Combine’s fragile state he could not afford that. Victor understood this well, the Federated Suns own Draconis March hated the very idea of Victor being friends with the Kuritas let alone his suspected involvement with Omi and the current alliance between the two nations.
“The Draconis Combine Abstains†the Chairman said “the vote is two-to-one in favour of Thomas Marik with one vote to be placed. Elected-Prince Mansdotter could the Free Rasalhague Republic please finish this vote please.â€
“Of course, I believe Victor is the man to led us to victory over the Clans, the Free Rasalhague Republic vote for the Federated Suns.†He said, that was it a stalemate all eyes turned to Anastasius Focht, Precentor Martial (Warlord) of ComStar’s ComGuard forces and the organisation that was likely to be the primary force of the new Star League.
“Can ComStar please cast its vote and decide the First Lord of the Second Star League? Anastasius Focht the floor is yours.â€
“I thank your chair person.†Focht said standing “I have watched the Inner Sphere scurry against the Clans and I have marshalled the ComGuard to victory against them. However, the Star League will not be formed to only counter the Clans, we are looking to create a second Golden Age of the Inner Sphere with the recreation of this body. ComStar will vote for Thomas Marik, the Free Worlds League is a template for the Inner Sphere a collective body working together in harmony. ComStar would however request that Kai Allard-Liao’s previous call for Victor Steiner-Davion to be the first Commanding-General of the new League stand and be honoured by the new First Lord†slowly Thomas Marik stood not waiting for the Chairman to call him fourth as the victor.
“This would be agreeable. Victor, commiserations on your loss, would you be willing to serve as my Commanding-General of the Star League?â€
“I would be willing to serve the Star League, First Lord Marik, I accept. And may I be the first to congratulate you on this victory. Secondly I have prepared this list of units that is required for Star League service, all member states are to please provide this force or an equally corresponding force when called to.†He said handing an orderly pads with requisition forms which were passed to each leader. Katrina Steiner-Davion stood immediately looking at Victor angrily.
“Commanding-General, this is unacceptable! You have asked for the entire Federated Suns contingent to be withdrawn from the Clan border leaving the Alliance completely undefended from the Clan threat. This League has been created to hold the peace not for your political manoeuvring! How is the Star League supposed to defend us if half the defenders arrayed against the Jade Falcons are being withdrawn?â€
“Katherine, the forces formerly belonging to the Lyran Alliance are already en-route to replace them, which has left the Federated Suns already weakened for several weeks. Once the rest of your ‘reliable’ forces have returned then my forces will return home, not before. Additionally the Federated Commonwealth Corps will be disbanded and the Lyran-born warriors will be give the choice whether to return to their homeland or serve the Federated Suns. The Tenth Lyran Guards, the Davion Assault, Heavy and Light Guards and First Kathil Uhlans will all immediately begin training for upcoming service against the Clan threat. However, if and when they return to your borders they will be Star League not Commonwealth, Suns or Alliance and they will be under my command. And Katherine†he said using her true name “for the Alliance this is a none negotiable requirement.†Katherine turned to Thomas Marik who looked at both Steiner-Davions.
“The Tenth Lyran Guards RCT are a Lyran House unit, you cannot expect me to allow them to remain under your command. If you want a Lyran command to serve you directly I will give you one of my choosing, the Tenth deserve some rest and refit before being thrown into another fight, you have led them in some of the worst fighting the Inner Sphere has faced this century and cannot expect them to continue just because you want to keep them.†The Tenth Lyran Guards, also known as ‘The Revenants’ were Victor’s personal command robbing him of them would be a gut punch and would give the Lyran Alliance an Elite unit to play with despite their political leanings, perfect cannon fodder troops.
“You cannot have things all your way Commanding-General, a House Lord is allowed to give any unit they deem able to fit the mission profile and withdraw any force they do not want to participate.†Thomas Marik warned Victor however Victor raised his hands in surrender, he had expected this.
“Of course First Lord, that is why before I left the Federated Suns Marshal James McFarland and Leftenant General Reinhart Steiner, the commanders of the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT sent me a letter along with their resignation and their entire RCT’s notice for resignation of commission in the Lyran Alliance and Federated Commonwealth Armies, they enrolled their command in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns are now undergoing training. By the time I return home they will be ready to act.†He said sitting down Katherine was about to complain but Thomas Marik broke the two Steiner-Davions argument up.
“The Commanding-General has overview over military forces deployment. The resignations of the Tenth will have to be confirmed by an independent source, I would suggest ComStar or the Word of Blake, otherwise the Lyran Alliance has no leg to stand on. Archon Steiner, please comply with the new Star League‘s orders.†He said to Katrina, the Steiner Lord looked as if she might explode as she slipped quietly back into her seat.
“We will reconvene in twelve hours to discuss how the Star League Defence Force will be used.†He said “this session is at an end.†He said, everyone began to move out barring Sun-Tzu Liao who watched Victor Steiner-Davion leave. As he left the chambers he turned to Sang-rang-jun Talon Zahn, his military Warlord inside the Capellan Confederation.
“How did we not know the Commonwealth was moving so many troops†Sun-Tzu asked in rapid Mandarin.
“Chancellor, as far as we know the Federated Suns has made no new troop movement other than the normal routine. The only major new developments was the deployment of the Fox, Indomitable and Intrepid, the first three Fox-class Corvettes on Trials. One vessel is deployed in each March, any movement we made would face at least one WarShip with another six under production.â€
“So we cannot take advantage of this?â€
“None more than what we are doing in the Chaos March.†Talon said mentioning the former FedCom March shattered just before the Lyran Alliance broke away. Many of the Strana March worlds had been Capellan and on the orders of Sun-Tzu Liao the Confederation was retaking them one-by-one, the development of the FedCom Fox-class Corvette was the first Inner Sphere designed and built WarShip in almost three hundred years, had slowed this progress, however, it was continuing as even the active FedCom WarShips could not be everywhere. And the only other groups to field WarShips were the ComStar and their splinter-faction the Word of Blake two organisations more busy with working against each other and against the Clans than countering the Succession States. As far as Sun-Tzu was concerned WarShips were a waste of money and resources and although he had kick-started the Capellan’s own program it was a PR program only as far as he was concerned, they were still years from producing a vessel capable of combat.
WarShips were combat JumpShips, heavily armoured and armed they could do everything a regular JumpShip could do and they could travel in systems and manoeuvre in combat, even the smallest WarShip was able to destroy a DropShip with a single shot of their main guns and were capable of attacking planetary targets as well. The only way to destroy a WarShip was with massed fighter and DropShip attacks, a costly endeavour or with a bigger WarShip.
“What about the Taurians? Could we use our Trinity Alliance Allies to cause trouble and a distraction?†Sun-Tzu asked looking at Talon, the recent deal with the Magistracy of Canopus and the Taurian Concordat had given the Capellan Confederation allies with the two biggest Periphery realms and a much needed boost in manpower and in the case of the Taurians, cannon fodder.
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Mars Colony and Titan Shipyards
Sol System, Chaos March
15th October 3058
The Word of Blake had heard all about the new Star Leagues birth and despite their possession of Terra and doing their part in the Battle of Tukayyid, while part of ComStar, none of their members had been invited to the Conference. Instead ComStar had been invited and treated like the saviours of the Inner Sphere while the Word of Blake were ignored and slighted as religious fanatics. Soon however that would change and the Word of Blake would get their due. Precentor-Marital Trent Adrian and his Executive Officer Precentor Suzanne Malvarney had come up with their own plan. Trent Adrian had taken their sole operational WarShip and several assault DropShips with heavy fighter support to the Titan Shipyards near Saturn’s largest moon with a sole duty to engage and destroy or capture the defenders of the ComStar held Facility while Malvarney had taken two Divisions of troops to Mars to capture the training and gunnery ranges there, during the invasion of Terra they had tried to capture these facilities but failed now she would ensure that the job was completed with overwhelming force, despite ComStar‘s reinforcements.
Commanding from the front Suzanne piloted a seventy ton Grasshopper firing her centre torso mounted Extended Range Large Laser into a twenty ton Wasp, the laser struck the light Mech’s left leg breaking just above the knee the light Mech fell on its face. Suzanne finished the Mech off with a pair of Short Range Missiles (SRM) from the Grasshopper’s head launcher, as the two missiles struck the target they exploded into balls of flames covering the Mech in Inferno napalm jelly. With the MechWarrior unable to eject it was a death sentence, nothing more than a ComStar Warrior deserved in her view. The battle had been ongoing for two hours so far and the Word of Blake assault forces had lost ten Mechs so far however the ComGuards had lost twenty-eight and as many vehicles they were in full retreat. It was only a matter of time before they were destroyed and soon the Word of Blake would control the Recharge Stations, Venus, Terra and Mars, hopefully Titan would join them and the entire Terran System would be under their control.
Deeper in the Terran System near the Shipyards Trent Adrian stood on the bridge of the Blake's Sword, a McKenna-class Battleship the most powerful WarShip class currently in service with any Inner Sphere state. Ahead was the Titan Shipyards one of only a dozen in the Inner Sphere capable of producing WarShips, inside four of the bays were WarShips either under construction or under repairs, alongside them was a Dante-class Frigate and a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser and several dozen DropShips.
“Sir, the vessels are moving into a defensive posture†the ship’s sensor operator said.
“Battle Stations. Open communication systems†he said a tech nodded signalling the system was active “Titan Shipyard Facility this is Trent Adrian, Precentor Martial of the Word of Blake, while your own Precentor Martial acts as a diplomat to the Star League we have come. It is time the Heretic ComGuards released you of the burdens they have placed on you and for you to see the enlightened path. Tell them you have no wish of their presence and we will allow them to leave without harassment.â€
“This is Precentor Benjamin O’Brien, commander of the CSWS Blake’s Strength, overall commander of the Titan shipyards we have authority over this facility and this system.†It was true that ComStar had held the Terran system for centuries, ever since the fall of the Star League but now they had fallen under a Heretic’s grasp and were unbelieving in the teachings of Blake Trent Adrian thought quietly as the ComGuard Commander continued. “Neither the Blake’s Strength or the Narbonne will be leaving this system without a fight.†The ComGuard Commander said as both ComStar vessels launched fighters and attack DropShips.
“So be it†Trent said looking at the range finder, they were just in range, “fire.†He said eight Naval-class Lasers and four AR-10-class Naval Missile launchers fired launching White Shark Capital Missiles the missiles struck two DropShips shattering both ComGuard vessels under the massive firepower of weapons designed to attack WarShips.
“You Blakist bastard†the ComGuard commander said as the DropShips broke-up under the weapons fire, the Blake’s Strength returned fire with five of its own Naval launchers, a mix of Barracuda and White Shark missiles launched from the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser. All five missiles struck the Blake’s Sword, however the massive Battleships armour absorbed the fire without pause.
“Bring us twenty degrees to port, I want a broadside line-up on that Dante.†The Blake's Sword commander said as the Blake’s Strength opened fire with missiles again, the larger ComStar vessel was obviously trying to get the Blake‘s Sword‘s attention however the Blake‘s Strength‘s commander had eyes only for the smaller ComStar vessel if they could destroy the Narbonne the Blake‘s Strength would soon follow.
The Narbonne accelerated to its maximum speed closing on the Blake’s Sword, the Dante weighed less than a third of the Battleship’s mass but the captain was charging forward intent on closing the range, no surprise the McKenna-classes biggest asset was its broadside arcs which each held twenty-four Heavy Naval PPCs.
The Dante continued to close as the McKenna turned, the Frigate’s forward armour was going to take the entire brunt of the Blake’s Sword’s Broadside. The Dante was firing all the way damaging locations all over the front of the Battleship doing limited armour damage “How long?†the commander asked as the battleship turned, the massive ship was heavily armoured and armed however it was not the most manoeuvrable vessel in the deep.
“Thirty seconds Captain, gun emplacements report all weapons ready for a broadside.†The sensor operator said “the Narbonne is continuing to close, their weapons are starting to make holes in our armour, no critical damage yet. Fighters and DropShips are incoming.†Against most WarShips fighter and DropShip attack was just as lethal as another WarShip because most of a WarShip’s guns could not track a target as small as a fighter and to use WarShip-grade weapons against a DropShip was serious case of overkill. Massed DropShip and fighter assaults had been the downfall of the largest type WarShip which was why many larger WarShips used their own Fighters and DropShips for close-defence.
“Have our own DropShips and Fighters cover our assault, prepare for a broadside on my mark†he said looking at the sensor screen the smaller Dante was closing quickly, this fight was about to get messy. In the space around them the Blake DropShips and Fighters were engaging their ComGuard counterparts in a no holds barred battle, another two ComStar DropShips - an Achilles and a Fury - exploded under heavy Blakist fighter attack but more than a dozen Blake fighters were destroyed in the assault giving the ComGuard fighters more freedom.
“We are in position†the helm officer said, there was a brief pause, the Narbonne continued to close firing all the way causing damage to non-critical areas of the McKenna.
“Fire†the commander said moments later the gunners fired all twelve broadside Heavy Naval PPCs, one of the most powerful weapons a WarShip could carry, it was a devastating barrage for any vessel to survive. The cannons converged on the Dante’s forward prow, this single volley was enough to penetrate the frigates armour and burn its innards to a cinder gutting the ComStar vessel from stem-to-stern. The Narbonne continued on its ballistic course past the Blake's Sword the stricken frigate, which was now missing half its nose, missed the Blake‘s Strength by only a couple of hundred metres. Smaller individual weapons along the Dante’s side continued to fire but for the most part the vessel was dead, as the crew began to realise this and evacuate the vessel escape pods and lifeboats began launching off abandoning the vessel to space. “Nice, very nice. Good work people†the Precentor Martial said smiling as he watched the vessel spin away into the void he was tempted to say they should take out the escape pods as well but just then he was knocked off his feet as the vessel was battered by ten Naval Autocannons and six Naval missile launchers from the other side of the Blake's Sword. “Blake’s Blood! What the hell was that?†He cursed pulling himself back to his feet.
“It’s the Blake’s Strength, she sneaked up behind us. We have lost six PPC banks with that attack, they are moving position and continuing to fire, staying in our damaged arcs.†The sensor officer said as the ship shuddered from several more hits with the Blake’s Strength staying inside their damaged areas only a minimum of the Blake’s Sword’s guns could hit the Battle-cruiser sustaining its life long enough for its heavy naval autocannons to cause significant damage. “Hull breach deck twelve, docking collar six destroyed, Barracuda-missile auto-loading off-line.â€
“Switch to manuals†Trent Adrian said, he was not a naval officer but all around him the flagship of the Word of Blake Navy Militia was being picked apart by a vessel half its size.
“Bring us to three-point mark four.†The ships commander said regaining control of the situation, the Blake’s Sword continued to turn as the Blake’s Strength continued to move and fire causing severe damage to several systems on the McKenna including taking out another two Naval PPC batteries and a second Barracuda Capital Missile Launcher. “Roll us one hundred-and-eighty degrees, have all remaining PPCs ready to fire.†The massive Blake’s Sword began to roll over onto its back making it look upside-down compared to the Blake’s Strength in space everything was relative and vessels upside down or right-side up was the same thing still it looked slightly strange for observers and the combatants. By rolling the Blake’s Sword could bring its undamaged weapons into play against the Black Lion aggressor. The Blake’s Strength moved out of the PPCs arc of fire and continued to fire on the massive McKenna causing more damage including two hull breaches which the Word of Blake crew and automatic bulkheads quickly sealed. With his ship taking more and more damage under the Blake‘s Strength’s fire the vessel‘s commander made a choice, which would save his ship probably at the cost of his own life. “Rig for maximum speed, order all DropShips and fighters to form up on us, we will collect them on our egress.â€
“What are you doing?†Trent screamed from the back of the bridge “one volley will destroy them! We can take this facility.â€
“Not without losing this ship, Precentor Martial. Helm begin acceleration, weapons tactical defensive fire only.†The ships commander said, the Blake’s Sword continued to fire however it was far less than it had been and was only targeting targets close to the vessel it was the ComGuard Blake’s Strength calling the shots with capital-missiles striking all along the Blake‘s Sword‘s rear hull, the Battle-cruiser did not pursue ending the battle. Several Blakist DropShips were destroyed by the Blake’s Strength’s second volley of missiles as they retreated out of range this battle was over for now, and for now the Shipyards were still ComStar‘s possession.
“Captain, we need to talk, in private.†Trent said walking from the bridge, the captain knew he had probably signed his own death warrant but he‘d saved his crews life which was most important.
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Hall of the Khans, Karl Devalis Personnel Quarters
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
15th October 3058
“Where is your Clan?†Sellen Cage asked holding Karl Devalis down against the bed, Karl countered using the Elemental’s size and weight against her Sellen fell onto the bed and Karl slipped her grasp pinning her to the bed, both were naked and since their first meeting in the Hall of the Khans the two had spent six nights together. For Clan warriors this was almost unheard of, both were trueborn warriors bred for combat in the Clans Iron Wombs, very rarely did Clansmen engage in long term romances and sex was just another activity, a release from regular happenings. Neither the Ice Hellion Khan or the Nova Cat Galaxy Commander had made any indication of breaking this off, and so far no-one had said anything regarding their activities.
“Where it has always been, saKhan Ice Hellion†Karl said smiling, Sellen stopped putting up a fight and he slipped from her grasp lying on top of her locked in what seemed to be a never-ending embrace. Two weeks ago Karl had been in a field base with the Khans preparing for the Nova Cat’s secret Exodus now he was in the Hall of the Khans, in bed, with the Ice Hellion Khan a Clan the Nova Cats were neither friend or enemy.
Three hours and a bend/broken bed later the two lay on the stone floor of the quarters. Karl quietly cursed the builders and designers for not including carpets in this ancient building, he had thought about putting some in however what was good for the Founder was good enough for the present and he would make do. Karl had however installed a rug made from a slain Ghost Bear, during his early days as a warrior Karl had gained entrance to the Clawing Rite of Clan Ghost Bear.
The Clawing Rite was a sacred ritual where warriors were abandoned in the frozen wastes with little more than light clothing, a spear and a survival pistol. Their task was to survive the elements, track and kill a Ghost Bear with the spear. Although he had been abandoned by his team early on Karl had not only survived the ordeal but also succeeded where many had failed and many more had perished, he also became the first outsider to slay a Ghost Bear much to the annoyance of many Ghost Bears.
“Seriously Karl where are the Nova Cats, the ilKhan wants to know and he will find out one way or another†she warned.
“Are you interrogating me? Trying to find something ilKhan would want so the Ice Hellions have a bargaining chip?†Karl said playfully rolling over back onto Sellen.
“I would think you know me better than that pussy cat†the Elemental said equally playfully countering flipping him over again pinning Karl, the impact on the stone floor was barely cushioned by the rug. “All I want to know is where the Nova Cats are and would they oppose me taking over the rest of Dagda barring their enclave?â€
“Would we…?†Karl whispered looking into the distance thinking then turned back to Sellen “well that could be a very expensive proposition, saKhan Ice Hellion†he said smiling.
“Okay, how many more times will I have to sleep with you?†She asked from the look in her eyes Karl could tell she was joking, but both knew it would cost her more than that as they settled down for sleep on the floor, at least it wouldn’t break.
Khan Trials, Nova Cat Command
Nova Cat Occupied Territory
Tortuga Prime, Periphery
16th October 3058
Three successful trials had put Santin West one place from Khanship, against him was Leon Rosse, a Star Colonel like West Rosse was a MechWarrior and an ardent Crusader. If Rosse was victorious the Nova Cat Touman would strike the Inner Sphere, probably the Federated Suns the most powerful Successor State. Not only would that shatter the Nova Cat Touman and endanger their civilian population, but their secret base would be compromised something Santin West could not and would not allow.
A second Elemental emerged through the doorway of Santin’s quarters “Star Colonel, the Trial is ready to begin.â€
“Understood, I will be along presently†he said quietly not moving from his position.
“Aff, OvKhan†the elemental said stepping out of the room, Santin West moved slowly standing. Turning he left the small room and walked down a short corridor through the doors and down a small ramp exiting the DropShip and across the open area where large amounts of warriors were gathered. In the arena stood around fifty warriors inside the circle stood Leon Rosse dressed in a light Gray suit, Leon Rosse was tall for a MechWarrior making them almost the same height but he was also he gangly man with little muscle, the typical MechWarrior.
Standing in front of Leon, Santin bowed slightly, “Honour†Leon said.
“Seyla†Santin said Leon copied him and both men dropped into combat poses over the next ten minutes both punched, kicked and threw each other. Neither man was ready to fall, despite their near equal height Santin was still stronger his genetically developed muscle gave him an advantage, unfortunately Leon was faster and both men had superb stamina.
Another ten minutes past before Santin made a critical error allowing Leon to get him in a submission pose holding him down, Leon tried for almost a minute to get the pinned Elemental to give up however Santin had another idea, the only thing that sapped strength and stamina more than a submission move was actually holding the downed person. After a minute of being in the dirt Santin used his superior strength to push against the ground forcing both men up, then in a fluid move he flipped them over and held down the MechWarrior after a minute in one position Leon had no response and with Santin’s bulk crushing him the fight was soon over soon after the Circle of Equals was brought to a close and Santin West was declared winner.
In front of all the Warriors and Civilians present Khan Santin West is unveiled to the Nova Cats, now the Nova Cats had a new home and a new leader, it was time the Clan found its feet and strode into a brighter future.
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Federated Commonwealth (Suns) Wing
Whitting Conference Centre
Tharkad, Lyran Alliance
16th October 3058
Sitting in the Federated Commonwealth’s offices in the Whitting Conference Centre Victor looked at reports from around the Inner Sphere, the Clans still held lots of territory in the Inner Sphere, even more than the entire Capellan Confederation. The Star League had been formed to turn back the Clan threat however now he read a new report that placed the Word of Blake as a bigger problem. The Splinter-faction of ComStar had assaulted Mars and the Titan Shipyards in the Terran System, ComStar had lost Mars, two divisions of ground troops and then at Titan they had lost a WarShip in the fighting luckily the ComGuard still held the Shipyards. The report went on that Word of Blake’s only operational WarShip had suffered heavy damage in the fighting making the likelihood of another strike was very small. Although the Word of Blake had heavy support from Thomas Marik’s Free Worlds League Victor doubted that the new First Lord would support the Word of Blake’s assaults against ComStar which provided the new Star League with most of its forces.
There was a knock at the door and Victor looked up at the door, being the new Commanding-General of the Star League he was going to have to get used to this. “Come in†he said, the door swung open and Brevet General Ariana Winson, commander of the three regiments of the Eridani Light Horse Mercenary Brigade, walked into the room “ah, General Winson, it is good that you chose to come to the conference and I am glad you decided to accept my invitation.†Victor said rising from his seat.
“Thank you Commanding-General Davion†she said moving over accepting Victor’s handshake.
“Please take a seat General†Victor said, Winson sat down on the chair opposite the table and Victor retook his seat and began to speak. “General, your unit is a direct descendant of the original Star League and although you have served as a mercenary for centuries you have upheld your traditions and beliefs that the Star League is the best way forward for the Inner Sphere.†He said the general nodded but remained silent, why disagree with one of the highest comments you could be given? Victor continued “Because of this I would like to invite your force to rejoin the Star League Defence Force as full time members. Your people would form the core of the planned SLDF Corps.†He said the General looked quite shocked but maintained her cool, her Light Horse were one of the strongest Mercenaries in the Inner Sphere, with three ground force regiments, an Aerospace Regiment and full transport and support. They were also one of the few Inner Sphere units to be associated with the original Star League and still honour the fallen organisation with the Cameron Star flying at all their major encampments.
“I am flattered Prince Davion†Winson said “however, the Light Horse have been mercenary for many years, I will have to consult with the other Light Horse commanders and our civilian population before we decide whether or not to take up this calling.â€
“I fully understand General, I will be leaving Tharkad in six days, you will be able to contact me through command on New Avalon after that.â€
“I understand Commanding-General, I will speak to you again†the Light Horse General said standing up and leaving the room. Victor sat back down again and returned to the information reports, this one concerning the Federated Suns half of the Commonwealth and the lowered amounts of pirate activities along the periphery borders.
Whitting Conference Centre
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Alliance
17th October 3058
The Succession Lords came together once more in the great hall but now their focus was on something entirely different. Now that a new First Lord and Commanding-General had been elected it was time for them to decide on how this new Star League and the Star League Defence Force that would be formed with it would be used. The room was darkened and Thomas Marik was the first to step into the lights.
“I call the Star League into session.†Thomas Marik said as First Lord “Commanding-General Victor Steiner-Davion has the floor†he said nodding to Victor as the spotlights moved to Victor’s position there was a collective gasp, Victor was dressed in the green uniform of a Federated Suns Marshal minus every decoration he was entitled other than that of the insignia of a Marshal and the SLDF‘s Cameron’s Star.
“Thank you First Lord†Victor said he noticed the others surprise at his dress “my fellow lords, we have reformed the Star League.†He said looking at the others “now a decision must be made regarding how the Star League Army will be used in defence at home stopping our armies in conflict against each other and in defence against the Clans, or offensively against the threat of the Clans.â€
“I believe it is impossible to hold back the Clan force once the Tukayyid Truce ends they will attack en masse. Only a show of force will show them that we are able to defend ourselves and if they push we have the ability to strike back.†Kai Allard-Liao said standing at the St Ives table beside Victor’s Federated Commonwealth.
“However, if we fail we could weaken our defences so when the Clans attack next they will have no trouble in reaching Terra.†Sun-Tzu said his nation, like the Federated Suns and Thomas Marik’s Free Worlds League, was in the ‘south’ of the Inner Sphere below Terra and far from the Clan threat.
“With Clan Wolf (in-Exile) defending the Lyran border and the Wolf Dragoons, Kell Hounds and Northwind Highlanders supporting them on the Lyran and Combine borders were should not fear the Clans that badly. With these elite mercenary units and these Clansmen, who have seen the correct way to protect the Inner Sphere, we have little to fear of major retaliations.†Katherine Steiner-Davion said, Victor personally disagreed with her the mercenaries perhaps counted a combined strength of twelve BattleMech regiments against the Clan threat they would be destroyed wholesale without massive amounts of house troop support something he was sure that Katherine would withhold. She would not mind much if all three Mercenary brigades were destroyed all had ties to the Federated Suns and the Kell Hounds currently commanded the Arc-Royal Defence Cordon within the Lyran Alliance, an area that the Lyran High Command had no control over. The Kell Hounds and Clan Wolf (in-Exile) officially held this area in protest over Katherine removing the Lyran Alliance from the Federated Commonwealth and it was a dagger at the heart of the Lyran Alliance which Victor could use if he ever wanted to unseat his sister. It was something Victor had though about a couple of times but never been willing to act upon, to do so would weaken the Lyran Alliance and the Clan borders allowing the Jade Falcons to capture massive amounts of territory while the Inner Sphere’s backs were turned.
“If we were to form a task force and were to strike the Clans now we could hurt them badly.†Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht said, “I am willing to put ComStar’s entire military at such a Task Forces disposal. With the location of Clan Smoke Jaguar’s Homeworld in our grasp we can strike a deathblow to a whole clan.†There was a collective gasp at that ComStar fielded roughly fifty divisions of ground troops which was the equivalent of one hundred regular combine arms regiments, in space they fielded a navy of thirty-nine WarShips with enough JumpShips and DropShips to transport all ground troops a superior capacity to that of any Inner Sphere state.
“A Clan that shares an Occupation Zone with Clan Star Adder, a far stronger Clan and one we do not know its Homeworld.†Katherine said “the Jade Falcons on the other hand are weakened by their recent conflict against Clan Wolf, we could destroy their Inner Sphere force far easier and possibly even strike the Wolves as well. Taking out not one but two Clans.†She said, the Jade Falcons held large swaths of Lyran territory no shock that Katherine wanted rid of that Clan instead of the Smoke Jaguars.
“Despite the Jade Falcons weakened strength they are still one of the stronger Clans, they showed that with their strike on Coventry. Also we would not want to strike at a weakened Clan, this would be a sign to the other Clans that we will only strike the weak. From my discussions with Khan Phelan Kell, of the Wolf (in-Exile) Clan the other Clans will see this as a weakness and strike us again, hard.†Victor said, he still had scars of that little conflict, a conflict he had only stopped by the offering of Hegira to the Jade Falcon Khan. Hegira was the Clan word for the withdrawal with their entire force intact and no loss of honour, he knew that would not work again and if they struck the Jade Falcons it would be extremely costly to all concerned.
“I would agree with the Commanding-General also, however, not because I believe the Smoke Jaguars are weaker, but because of the symbolism the Smoke Jaguars currently hold in the Inner Sphere.†Hohiro Kurita said quietly raising to his feet “they were able to seize and hold the Capitol world of one of the Successor States, my own. Although we were able to push them back the Jaguars have shown they are strong enough to do things the other clans only dream of and their Khan is currently ilKhan of all the Clans, we need to show them that the Inner Sphere does not shirk away from big targets. The Smoke Jaguars make a perfect target also need I remind you of Turtle Bay.†He said naming the city that the Smoke Jaguars had razed to the ground with Orbital Weapons fire because the population fought back against their oppressors.
“The Free Worlds League agrees with the Draconis Combine, the Smoke Jaguars make a better, also any unit that is taking part in this conflict would have the support of the Free Worlds League and would receive full upgrades for conflict against the Clans.†All the succession lords barring Victor gasped giving full upgrades to an entire Regiment or more of troops would cost billions of C-Bills. “I call for a vote on Defence or Offence for the new League. The Free Worlds League will begin with a call for Offence.â€
“The Federated Suns votes Offence†Victor said he scanned the faces and saw their surprise not only had Victor worn the Federated Suns uniform for surprise factor now he had resurrected the nation of his Father lost when he married Melissa Steiner of the Lyran Commonwealth. With the Lyran based Federated Suns forces en route back to the Federated Suns and vice versa the Federated Commonwealth would soon cease to exist.
“The Lyran Alliance vote Defence†Katrina said keeping her eyes locked on her brother “Instead of pursuing combat like the mindless clansmen we should defend the territory we still hold.â€
“The Free Rasalhague Republic calls for Defence, we have lost enough.â€
“As does the Capellan Confederation, all we want is peace.†Sun-Tzu said obviously trying to stop Victor and Thomas’s first call, although Sun-Tzu had supported Thomas over Victor to the post of First Lord he would not give the Free Worlds League leader too much support.
“The Draconis Combine calls for Offence. The Clans invaded our territory claiming it was theirs because they descended from the first Star League, we must show them that the first League co-existed with the Inner Sphere Noble Houses.†Hohiro Kurita said again it was a tie, three against three, and again ComStar would have the deciding vote.
“ComStar will break this deadlock and also vote offence, the ComGuards sacrificed much on Tukayyid, it is time the Clans sacrificed something.†Anastasius Focht said, the first bill of the new league had past, just.
“Now a call for a target†Thomas Marik said. Over the next six hours the Succession Lords argued over a target, finally agreeing to target the Smoke Jaguars. It was decided that two forces would be formed one Task Force Bulldog, it would be the larger of the two and would assault the Inner Sphere holdings of both Clans Smoke Jaguar and Clan Star Adder with an aim of annihilating or driving both Clans out of the Inner Sphere. The second would be Task Force Serpent and would strike the Clan Homeworlds, specifically Huntress the Homeworld of Clan Smoke Jaguar. In the following days it was decided that in the next two years they would prepare the Inner Sphere for a major assault against the Smoke Jaguars then in early 3060 they would strike the Jaguars form all sides.
Task Force Serpent would be formed first on the Davion world of Defiance and be place under the command of Morgan Hasek-Davion Marshal of Armies of the Federated Suns. Task Force Serpent would leave the Inner Sphere in late 3059 and arrive around Huntress around the same time as Task Force Bulldog launched assaults against the Smoke Jaguar forces in the Inner Sphere. Their overall aim would be to completely destroy the Smoke Jaguar Clan.
With the major decisions made they would now disperse back to their home nations and would next meet at the next Whitting Conference in four years, a conference that would take place on the world of Marik or Atreus inside the Free Worlds League.
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Headquarters and Planning Room
Irece, Clan Smoke Jaguar Holding
Clan Occupation Zones, Inner Sphere
18th October 3058
Smoke Jaguar Star Colonel Ayden Moon surveyed the compound that his Jaguars held, there were roughly four trinaries worth of troops on planet, roughly a Cluster of ground troops, arrayed alongside them were almost double the amount of Star Adder forces. For the last three weeks the Star Adders had been making comments about the Smoke Jaguar forces and had been moving in Smoke Jaguar areas of the planet, as far as Ayden was concerned it was time for that to change. “Order Star Captain Calvin Kotare to take his Nova into Star Adder territory and challenge their Stavag commander to a trial of possession for the BattleMech Factory. Have Star Captain Rebecca, to similarly challenge the forces at the Spaceport. I will led Trinary One against the Adder ground base, and with one strike we will rid this entire planet of Adders.â€
“A dangerous move, but a bold one.†Star Commodore Sara Wimmer commander of the orbiting Smoke Jaguar WarShip, a Fredasa-class Corvette named Dark Mist, one of the smallest vessels in use by the Clans but still a WarShip it would defend the Jaguar ground forces from any space-borne predator “my WarShip stands ready to defend you from the Star Adder backlash however, it is only a corvette.â€
“The Star Adders only have four WarShips in the Inner Sphere, if the others plan their attacks accordingly we should be able to overwhelm the Star Adders and push them from the Inner Sphere before they are able to react, this will be a great day for the Smoke Jaguars.â€
“And if we fail then we will be consigning the Smoke Jaguars to the long trek back to the Homeworlds.†Sara said warning of the dangers of their failure to defeat the Star Adders.
“We will not fail then.â€
“Seyla!†The Smoke Jaguar commanders chanted together.
Khan Santin West’s Command Outpost
Nova Cat Command
Tortuga Prime, Periphery
19th October 3058
In the four days since the Trial, Khan Santin West had made a dozen decisions the first was to move his command post inside the Sacred Rite to the spaceport and his second was to order his Clan to make a full survey of the planet and the former capital city. The rest of his decisions had been regarding the Nova Cats future path, first of all they would not be making Tortuga Prime their new capital the world was far too dry and arid to be a suitable staging world let alone a permanent settlement.
Bringing together several of the Nova Cat Galaxy Commanders and Star Admiral Jan Jorgensson, commander of the Nova Cat Naval forces, this was the first time since his ascension to Khanship they had been together and now it was time to make some choices. “Tortuga Prime is unsuitable for permanent colonisation by our civilian population, Khans Severn Lervoux and Lucian Carns chose the Dominion as our new home, however, the capital of the Dominion will not be our new capital planet.†He noticed several strange looks from the Galaxy Commanders and from the Star Admiral present. “I believe is that there is a world nearby that will be our new home, we must first find it. Star Admiral, I want you to select five WarShips that we have on hand to make double jumps out with the six planetary we control. Every system you enter a ground force team will be dispatched to any habitable planet with orders to make full surveys of possible habitation zones, Chi Provisional Galaxy will be assigned to your WarShips for ground survey and support†he said looking to Galaxy Commander Angelique West commander of the Galaxy, she nodded a slight disgusted look covered her face a scientific survey was hardly honourable work. “Also if you find any unidentified space borne finds I want them fully recorded and investigated in case they can be added to our current forces, or in case they pose any threat to our position here. Any active threats are to be dealt with accordingly, Mercenary or Pirate forces can be annihilated any force of the Federated Suns should be captured if possible as it is a possible intelligence asset on the nearest Inner Sphere state and the general state of the Inner Sphere.†Star Admiral Jorgensson and Angelique West wrote down notes as he spoke and looked up after a moment then nodded, both women seemed to have no trouble with the orders. Turning back to the others “I want each of you to select a cluster that would be available to be transferred to another command I plan on forming.â€
“A new command?†Star Colonel Jal Steiner asked, he was aide to Galaxy Commander Elianna Deleportis commander of Xi Provisional Galaxy, all eyes turned on the Star Colonel.
“Aff, Star Colonel, many of the current Nova Cat Front-Line Galaxies are near full strength. I want to slim down these Galaxies and form at least one new Galaxy. This will spread out our units but also make transportation of full Galaxies and internal Galaxy coordination easier.†He noticed several warriors were unhappy about the idea of loosing troops and prestige that came with commanding more troops, however, most looked happy enough with the arrangement.
“My Khan, a question†Kelly Hardo commander of the Cat’s Sigma Galaxy stood up.
“Please Galaxy Commanderâ€
“My Khan, what are our ground forces to do? At present we have almost eight Galaxies worth of troops on six worlds, even with your proposed plans we are still going to be crammed together and with no combat. Tempers may become frayed and our combat edge could suffer.†She said Santin West had looked at this as well, nearby there was the Federated Suns, Taurian Concordat and the Outworlds Alliance as well as dozens of independent worlds however he did not want to attack any of these targets, as it would tip other factions of the Nova Cat presence before the Clan was secure and ready.
“Galaxy Commander Hardo, I fully agree with you that an isolation stance would turn the Nova Cat Clan into nothing but a glorified version of the Blood Spirit Clan. I will not allow that to happen. Once we have re-organised our Clan I will rotate more units back to the Homeworlds to support Delta Galaxy and further our position there, at least on a temporary basis until we have secured our position here. Also I want you all to select targets which we can strike, no underhand tactics, however I want nothing that can be traced back here.â€
“How far can we go?†Galaxy Commander Carl Lenardon, commander of Omicron Galaxy asked.
“Preferably the periphery regions, and areas closer to Clan space however if you can draw up further plans I will listen carefully. Also be mindful of your visions they have guided us this far and shall continue to do so.†Santin said with that he stood up and left the room leaving his Galaxy Commander’s with a new task each moved out slowly.
Plains of Death, Trial of Position
Nova Cat Command Base
Tortuga Prime, Periphery
22nd October 3058
Following several days worth of discussion and after several trials had been fought it was decided that four clusters would be transferred to the new command which would be known as Tau Galaxy. Now all that was required was a commander the Star Colonels of each Cluster and other selected Star Colonels were offered the chance to participate in Trials of Position for command of this new Galaxy.
After several trials it came down to Star Colonel Jal Steiner and Star Colonel Ajax Drummond in a Trial of Position, Jal’s forty-five ton Shadow Cat against Ajax’s fifty Huntsman. The pirates had called this area the Plains of Death because pirate Lords consigned mutineers and their enemies to death by marooning them in the dunes with no water, food or shelter.
The two Nova Cat Star Colonels approached the area from opposite sides inside their Mech’s, Jal’s Shadow Cat was faster, more manoeuvrable and harder to hit than the Huntsman due to its lower sense of gravity. However, Ajax’s Mech was more heavily armoured and carried more weapons. “Star Colonel Ajax Drummond, I Jal Steiner challenge you for command of Tau Galaxy, this Trial is a solemn matter may no other interfere.â€
“Star Colonel Jal Steiner, I Ajax Drummond accept your challenge, Seyla†Ajax said in reply, short and simple.
“Seyla†Jal said both warriors triggered their long range firepower Steiner fired two Extended-Range Large Lasers while Ajax returned fire with its light LB-autocannon and ten-tube Long Range Missile (LRMs) rack. The two lasers of the Shadow Cat were far more accurate than the Huntsman’s weapons at range and so the heavier Mech took more damage.
With their initial assaults over the two warriors moved, Jal accelerated his Shadow Cat to the left and into the dunes while Ajax Drummond took his Huntsman right over more solid ground. After several hundred metres of travel both warriors ignited their Mech’s Jump Jets launching both medium OmniMechs into the air. Jal Steiner continued his assault firing one of the Shadow Cat’s Large Lasers in mid-air causing more damage to the Huntsman however Drummond held his fire, upon landing the Drummond let loose his Huntsman’s full fury firing both the Mech’s Large Pulse Lasers, the LB-autocannon and the LRMs. The LRMs went wildly wide however both pulse lasers and the autocannon struck home, Drummond focused his attack on the Shadow Cat’s left leg, that much damaged in one hit blew out the Shadow Cat’s left knee actuator dropping the Shadow Cat off its legs sprawling the lighter Mech over the ground. Drummond savoured his impending victory by turning his Mech slowly, Jal Steiner rolled his Mech over and with his cockpit facing straight into the sky the downed Star Colonel fired both his Large Lasers, whether it was a reflex shot or a simple lucky shot one of the Lasers struck the Huntsman’s head. Although it was not enough to decapitate the Mech it was enough to breach the cockpit either destroying the controls or injuring the pilot. The Huntsman suddenly lost all sense of balance and fell to the ground Jal struggled with his Mech brining it back to its feet, seeing the Huntsman was down and not moving with damage to its Head Jal held his fire he did not want to kill the Nova Cat warrior stepping slightly closer to gain a better look, that pause was all Ajax Drummond was waiting for triggering all his Huntsman’s weapons the pulse lasers, autocannon and missile fire breached the Shadow Cat’s torso armour pulping the stabilizing gyro taking the Mech out of the fight permanently. Sitting in his command chair Jal listened as Khan Santin West congratulated Ajax Drummond on his victory and his command of Tau Galaxy, it had been an underhand tactic that had been used to win but Jal decided he would not challenge the victory, it was not his day.
Hours later Star Colonel Jal Steiner sat around the flames of the camp fire, he wondered why his Clan had come here to this barren world. Of course they were following a vision but so far he had seen nothing on this world to warrant the Clan’s warriors missing out on the Invasion of the Inner Sphere. “You look trouble Star Colonel, Quiaff?†a deep voice said, Jal recognised the voice but remained focused on the flame.
“Aff, I wonder why we are here. On this world, in this former pirate kingdom, we should be out there conquering the Inner Sphere like our other brethren.â€
“I have wondered this also†the man said sitting down opposite Jal “You fought well today and were unfortunate not to win†it was Khan Santin West.
“My Khan, I meant no disrespect, it was only a question.â€
“Aff, I have asked this question also, many times I have wondered why the Khans chose to come here, to these six little insignificant worlds. The answer still is a mystery to me, however that is not why I came here tonight.â€
“Of course, how may I serve my Khan?†Jal Steiner said his eyes were still drawn to the flames but he was now paying far more attention on Khan West as well.
“I plan on sending Sigma and Xi Galaxies back to the Homeworlds, you are assigned to Xi, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, but why tell me, I am but a Star Colonel.†He said thinking back to the Trial once more, the chance to command a Galaxy did not come around a lot, Jal silently wondered if he would ever receive such a chance again.
“Aff, but even a Star Colonel can serve his Clan and his Khan Quiaff?†Jal Steiner nodded “there is a MechWarrior named Zane on this very world, he is a member of the Carns bloodline. I want you to be his sponsor in his Trial of Bloodright. And I would like you to pass this letter to Galaxy Commander Karl Devalis, the commander of Delta Galaxy.†He said holding out a letter just above the flames Jal looked at the letter for a moment held in his Khan’s outstretched hand, it was a wonder the document didn’t burst into flame, reaching out he took the letter. As he took the letter he could feel the fire on his hand, the Khan did not let go immediately “Karl Devalis is the only man who you are to give this letter to, Quiaff?†He said the flames licking both men’s hands, the envelope remained curiously untouched.
“Aff†Jal said regarding the letter with slightly more reverence as he placed it into his jacket pocket “I will guard this with my life, and this MechWarrior Zane will retain the Carns Bloodname for Clan Nova Cat’s stewardship.â€
“I am sure you will, now I leave you to your meditation.â€
“Blessed Path My Khan.†Jal said quietly, the Khan did not speak again as he withdrew from the fire.
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ComGuard Command Centre
Titan Shipyards, Titan Orbit
Terra System, Chaos March
24th October 3058
Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht stood in the CIC (Command-integrated-Control) Centre of the CSWS Invisible Truth, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser and the command ship of the ComGuard Naval Armada. Beside him stood Precentor-Naval Allan Beresick, overall commander of the navy and commander of the Invisible Truth “so they will form their task force on Defiance? A fools errand without our naval support†Beresick said looking at the Precentor-Martial, who simply nodded. “However with the Word of Blake at our door can we afford to go off gallivanting to Huntress?â€
“We must†Anastasius said “if we do nothing then all the ComGuard lives sacrificed on Tukayyid, and if the Word of Blake was more enlightened they would see the Clans for the threat they are instead of following their own agenda. If we fail to support the new Star League then every sacrifice we have given in defence of the Inner Sphere will be for nothing and the respect the Succession Lords afford us will evaporate. By annihilating a Clan and throwing another out of the Inner Sphere we can send a message to the Clans that the states of the Inner Sphere stand together when threatened with destruction. They will think again before assaulting our territory on the scale they have previously.â€
“That won’t stop individual Clans gaining a foothold, and we cannot afford to annihilate them all. The forces the Clans have if combined is staggering especially in naval assets, and considering how off our figures could be…†He said trailing off ComStar’s ROM agency had theorised that the Clans could have anywhere from one hundred to five hundred WarShips at their Homeworlds either active or in mothball, the Inner Sphere had maybe thirty and almost all of those were in ComStar’s stewardship.
“True, assuming the Inner Sphere States continue their commitment to the new Star League and continue to build their WarShip fleets over the coming year we will still need to commit six-to-eight WarShips for the Inner Sphere operation.â€
“At least eight heavy WarShips.†Beresick said quietly outlining the cost of this operation.
“And another three to the Huntress expedition.â€
“Four, I would suggest the Invisible Truth and three destroyers or corvettes.†Beresick said “at least half our active fleet will be committed to this fight. However, we will need at least four to six WarShips in the Free Rasalhague Republic just in case Clans Wolf and Jade Falcon decide to invade while we are distracted.â€
“Can we field that many WarShips at once?†Focht asked although ComStar held control over nearly fifty WarShips they did not have crews to fully man half that many.
“The Rasalhague force will be undermanned as will the defenders here, also the WarShips assigned to this Shipyard will be lighter elements.â€
“We can do this?â€
“We can†Beresick said in a low voice.
“Then make the arrangements, I will leave for Defiance in a few days time our Star League Serpent contingent can join me there.â€
Khan Santin West’s Quarters
Tortuga, Nova Cat Command
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
30th October 3058
Just outside the gravity well of Tortuga Prime the final elements of Sigma and Xi Galaxies were joining nine Nova Cat WarShips and almost twice that many JumpShips about to begin a long trek back to the Clan Homeworlds. It was a large force to be sending back to the small amount of territory the Nova Cats held in Homeworlds however they had a lot to do once they returned to the Homeworlds.
On the ground Khan Santin West sat inside the Sacred Rite which had become his command base on Tortuga, yesterday they had renamed the Dominions the Nova Cat’s Den by popular vote, not original but at least it was better than the Tortuga Dominions. Looking at a new set of reports Khan West began to understand why the Nova Cat Khans had chosen this region of space, the Nova Cat fleet had discovered four habitable worlds including one idyllic world that Khan West saw as their new Homeworld, however that was not the most important find. In another system they had found an abandoned but fully functional Olympus-class Recharge Station, the fleet had not investigated further but so far things were looking promising.
Looking up he looked at Star Admiral Jan Jorgensson and smiled “your people have done well Admiral. Now we need to go one step further, broadcast the co-ordinates to the WarShips ensure they return to the right world. Then we will move the population of Tortuga to New Barcella, our new home.†He said looking up at the Admiral who looked slightly confused, then realised what the Khan was talking about.
“The natives may not want to leave.â€
“They will be welcome to stay, we will maintain a garrison on planet and in the system, Tortuga has many feature we can use for training purposes and weapon testing. Also if any pirate forces enter the Den they are likely to look at Tortuga as the entrance, as it used to be for the Dominions, we will not cut off this source of intelligence so quickly.â€
“Agreed, I have a WarShip that could hide in this system. It has the firepower and speed to serve as a decent picket if need be.†Jorgensson said quietly, it was not the most honourable task but the ship would serve where it was sent that she was sure, also she would ensure that no WarShip assigned to this duty was there for more than two months at a time ensuring the crew did not feel like they were being punished.
“Good, begin as soon as possible. I will talk to the people of Tortuga.â€
More soon, hope you enjoy
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Smoke Jaguar Battle Line
Irece, Clan Star Adder Territory
Clan Occupation Zones, Inner Sphere
3rd November 3058
The Smoke Jaguars had attacked the day before and so far the Star Adders had lost the ruined BattleMech Factory, the abandoned Land-Air-Mech (LAM) plant and the Spaceport however the Jaguars had been late assaulting the Star Adder main base and so the Adders had reinforced their position, now the two forces were of almost equal strength and in space a Star Adder WarShip was en route. “We must hold for an additional day, the Black Adder has been destroyed by the Smoke Jaguars and the Exodus Ranger is en route but she will not arrive until tomorrow.†Star Colonel Andrea Guidice the Adder Commander said to her surviving two Star Captains.
“We will try Star Colonel, however, the Smoke Jaguars have planned this for quite a while, we are outgunned and they have better support than us.†Star Captain Karen said
“Have all OmniMechs outfitted with laser weaponry only, and have ammo reserved for conventional vehicles, aerospace fighters and BattleMechs.†Andrea said “we hold better position than the Smoke Jaguars and we hold less territory so we can concentrate our forces better. These Jaguars have been over bold with their assaults striking too soon, before they have sufficient forces. If we hold them and frustrate them we can beat them.†She said trying to improve their moral, they had been on the losing side for too long and Adder warriors did not like defensive work but it was the hand they had been dealt and that was all they could do.
Raider’s Roost
Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
5th November 3058
The Nova Cat civilians had begun moving off Tortuga and the leaders had broadcast an invitation to all citizens of Tortuga come to the central square of Tortuga for an address by the Nova Cat Khan. Up on a podium the Nova Cat Khan, Santin West was in the middle of a speech regarding their way forward “…the Tortuga Fusiliers are dead, the other pirates of the Periphery are no threat, the marauders of the Inner Sphere are not a threat. We control each system of the former Tortuga Dominions and wish to build on it, we have found four additional systems that can support life and plan on moving our civilians there instead of trying to eke out a living on this barren world. I would like to invite you to come and live with us, and with us build a world that we proudly call our capital…†West was saying just as someone broke in.
“So we will swap being slaves to the Pirates to being slaves of Clan test-tube babies no thanks!†There was a quiet laughter from the gathered crowd. Several of the Nova Cats armoured Elemental Warriors moved around the crowd their weapons raised, the Nova Cat warriors did not like having the Eugenitics program insulted they way it just had been.
“Hold your position†Santin said into the comm. frequency, the Elementals backed off but their weapons were still raised, still ready. “You will not be slaves†West said “as far as I am concerned you can remain here on this barren rock and try to live in freedom or you can come to New Barcella. We will maintain a military force on this planet but Raider’s Roost will not be occupied, if you want to stay away from us you can. But if you come to New Barcella you will be treated as equals with our own civilians and you will be able to move beyond this squalor you call home.â€
“What will we do? Clean your houses while you go off to fight, just as the pirates did.†Another person from the crowd asked.
“If you want you can attempt to join the Nova Cat military Touman, you will have to prove your worth but we will be willing to accept the worthy candidates. Others can do what they want, plant crops, build housing, weapons or heavy equipment, open shops. It will be up to you, as long as you do not interfere with the operations of the Nova Cat Touman or endanger our civilians then we will not interfere with you. However, if you endanger us you will be treated accordingly.†He warned “I leave it up to you, in twenty hours time not a single Nova Cat civilian will remain, the choice is in your hands.†Khan West said leaving the podium, there was general chatter from the crowd as the Nova Cat Khan and his Elementals left the area. Deeper in the city BattleMechs and Vehicles were moving out as well, as the Nova Cats began a general withdrawal from Tortuga.
-
Nadir point
Transfer Facility 4
Near Draconis Combine Periphery
6th November 3058
The convoy of Nova Cat WarShips had arrived in a system that should be unpopulated according to records however the WarShip’s sensors detected a Clan Smoke Jaguar JumpShip at the Zenith Point, below the sun, and three DropShips moving through the system. Normally the Nova Cats would ignore such a threat, however, the Nova Cats had missed battle for several months and even the tiny force defending this supply facility were a viable target.
“Bidding will begin at two Binaries†Galaxy Commander Kelly Hardo said to the six gathered Star Colonels. “The cut-down for this fight is a single star of BattleMechs.â€
“I will bid two Binaries minus all aerospace support.†Star Colonel Jos Keating said.
“I will offer a counter bid. A single Nova of ground forces†Jal Steiner said there was several moments of quiet, the forces at the Smoke Jaguar base was three Stars of ground troops a single Nova was a Star of Mechs and a Star of Battle Armour.
There were no other bids Kelly Hardo looked at Jal Steiner “a bold move Star Colonel, your first bid is the last, hope that this battle is not your last. Good hunting†she said, Jal Steiner nodded “Seyla†she said everyone else followed suit “Seyla†ending the bidding.
Jal Steiner left the room and immediately returned to his DropShip and saw that his warriors were waiting together for his return with the results of the Batchall “I was successful with the Batchall, we will engage the Smoke Jaguars with a single Nova of forces.†He looked over his forces and noticed MechWarrior Aaron still had his arm in a sling following a personal honour duel several days before, although honour duels should have been non-injury the fight had gotten slightly out of hand and Aaron had ended up with a dislocated shoulder. “Aaron you are out of this fight†Aaron looked disgusted and walked off, looking over the bay he noticed MechWarrior Zane was in the corner “Zane!†He called the Bloodname hopeful looked up “you are taking Aaron’s place, think you can take that?†He said pointing to the sixty-five ton Ebon Jaguar, Aaron’s Mech.
“Aff, Star Colonel, gladly†Zane said moving over to the group.
“Star Commander Kor your Star is with us on the ground, get your men transferred aboard. We detach in three hours.â€
“Aff Star Colonel, we will be ready within the hour.â€
Star Adder Battle Line
Irece, Clan Star Adder Territory
Clan Occupation Zones
7th November 3058
After several days worth of defensive fighting the Star Adders had tired the Smoke Jaguars of their fighting spirit, the Star Adders energy only weapon configurations was also brining fruit as the Smoke Jaguars heavier hitting, but ammo dependant weapons began running out of ammunition. In low orbit the York-class Destroyer/Carrier Exodus Ranger had arrived and was providing the Star Adders with air superiority something the Smoke Jaguars lacked.
Star Captain Karen leading her forces moved forward her Timber Wolf D was the lead Mech of ten against an equal amount of Smoke Jaguar Mechs and after days of defensive fighting the Star Adders were finally moving forward regaining some of their lost territory. Now they were moving close to the Spaceport reaches, the Smoke Jaguars had captured this territory early on in their campaign and now the Star Adders were getting some revenge.
“Continue to press them, they cannot hold this up for long†Karen said as autocannon and missiles rang out from the Smoke Jaguar’s defensive line but Karen’s forces held their fire closing, although some of them fielded weapons that had even better range they were under orders and held fire. Moving forward the Star Adders reached optimal range for their weapons and as one opened fire it was a risky strategy but also a brutally effective one, over six hundred tons of Mech fired everything available to them destroying all ten Smoke Jaguar Mechs in a brutal assault, although the last Smoke Jaguar downed a few Star Adders the Smoke Jaguars in this area were effectively defeated. “Elemental Star Bravo Four move up and secure downed Mechs and prisoners as Isorla. Battle Binary Zeta One move onto objective epsilon.†Karen said into the comm. surveying the sight four Smoke Jaguar Heavy Mechs and an Assault lay on the ground most were missing limbs and one was missing its head, that was how brutal the fighting had become, no quarter asked none given.
From a downed Warhawk Assault OmniMech Star Captain Rebecca fought back the pain and activated her communication systems “This is Star Captain Rebecca, Striker Trinary, Star Adder forces have broken Spaceport defences.†She said closing the communication system down, she was unable to move in her seat, behind her on the backdoor of the Warhawk’s cockpit a pool of blood was slowly growing, by the time Star Adder Security Elementals arrived to take here as a bondsmen the Smoke Jaguar commander would be dead.
Clan Smoke Jaguar Base
Transfer Facility 4
Near Draconis Combine Periphery
9th November 3058
As they descended in ablative-cocoons Star Colonel Jal Steiner opened up the communication frequency for the Jaguars to hear “Smoke Jaguar force this is Star Colonel Jal Steiner of the Nova Cats, First Garrison Cluster, Xi Galaxy. We are here to fight a Trial of Possession over your goods and equipment.†He said, the Nova Cats didn’t want the facility but with three DropShips at the facility they could gain valuable supplies and equipment and cause the Smoke Jaguars much trouble.
“This is Galina Perez, Star Captain, commanding Puma Garrison Trinary. We will defend this facility with our full Trinary.†The Smoke Jaguar said over the comm.
“That is fine with us Star Captain, meet us on the plains to the south if you wish to defend your claim to the DropShips and their cargo.†Jal said as the first pods arrived on planet “please advise the commanders of the DropShips that your JumpShip at the Zenith Point is in Nova Cat hands and that a convoy of nine Nova Cat WarShips and two Galaxies of troops are in system.â€
“Nine WarShips…!†someone gasped over the comm.
“Understood, Star Colonel†Galina said over the comm. “none of the DropShip commanders have any intention of interfering in the battle or attempting to flee we can deal with you Nova Cats ourselves.†The Smoke Jaguar said from the ground base three stars of BattleMechs began moving out of the base, from sensors Jal could see they were all second-line or Inner Sphere designs except one which was a front-line ninety ton Kingfisher, a state of the art OmniMech.
“Kingfisher, this is Jal Steiner, I challenge you to a battle of warriors.†He said accelerating his OmniMech forward to one hundred-and-thirty kilometres per hour.
“This is MechWarrior Zane to the Atlas pilot, I challenge you to a fight of warriors†he said seeing the ominous skull of the one hundred ton Inner Sphere Assault Mech. All around the Nova Cats were calling out challenges, the Smoke Jaguars out-numbered them so some were going to have to wait, if they were honourable Clan Warriors they would wait if not then the Nova Cats were in trouble.
Zane cut left and opened fire with his Ebon Jaguar’s Ultra-class autocannons and both fifteen-tube LRM launchers the two autocannons ripped small chunks off the Atlas’ left arm and the missiles engulfed the torso of the Atlas. The mighty assault Mech continued forwards not firing Zane took a couple of seconds to scan the assault Mech a bit more. Looking at the data he noticed it was a 3025-era Atlas, a Mech which carried technology thirty years our of date. Zane almost laughed the Smoke Jaguars must be really desperate for technology to use this Mech. Triggering both autocannons again he closed on the Jaguar Mech, seeing no reason to use only the Ebon Jaguar’s long range firepower. Normally this configuration of Mech only carried long range firepower with only short-range missiles (SRM) for back up but Zane had modified it mounting two pairs of medium lasers in place of some of the SRM ammo and smaller SRM racks, that was the wonder of OmniMech technology.
Zane cut left then right as the Atlas pilot opened fire with its twenty-tube LRM launcher, the Inner Sphere missiles were less effective than Clan missiles and only two hit the Ebon Jaguar, Zane smiled relishing true combat firing both autocannons his shots hit the Atlas’s upper torso while the thirty LRMs ripped up more torso armour. Checking the range he noticed that his lasers and SRMs were now also in range, triggering his third trigger all four Extended-Range Medium Lasers and eight SRMs ripped into the Atlas. Following such an onslaught the Atlas pilot tried and failed to maintain his Mech’s footings but the one hundred ton Assault Mech fell backwards onto its back, snapping the knee joint as it fell. Although disabled due to the leg damage Zane triggered all four lasers and both SRM launchers targeted on the Atlas’s torso section breaching the assault Mech’s armour eating away at the engine shielding and gyro ensuring the Mech would remain out of the fight.
Deeper in the battle zone five Elementals brought down a sixty-five ton Inner Sphere-built Catapult using a swarm-attack. A swarm attack was five Elemental warriors working together disabling the Mech with laser attacks at joints and with attacks on weak armour spots over the Mech. The Elementals then leapt clear leaving the Mech in a heap of metal and myomer. Looking around not a single Nova Cat warrior had been taken down.
The Shadow Cat of Star Colonel Jal Steiner engaged the Kingfisher a Mech twice is size, Jal triggered his Shadow Cat’s two arm mounted Extended-Range Large Lasers cutting away armour the Kingfisher returned fire with its own three large lasers, only one struck the Shadow Cat’s left leg causing some light armour damage. Jal Steiner cut left then triggered his OmniMech’s six jump jets leaping over the Kingfisher, turning mid-air Jal opened fire with his Streak SRM launcher. Streak SRMs would not fire if they were not guaranteed a lock the launcher fired and all six missiles slammed into the Kingfisher’s aft armour causing severe damage but luckily, for the Smoke Jaguar warrior, no armour breach.
The Kingfisher began to turn but Jal Steiner was already moving, not waiting for the assault Mech to continue its attack, the Kingfisher’s medium ultra autocannon opened fire. Ultra-class autocannons fired twice the speed of normal autocannons but the warrior’s skill was not up to the cannon’s firepower, the autocannon ripped up the landscape where the Shadow Cat was originally standing. By the time the Kingfisher had adjusted their sights Jal Steiner triggered both lasers and the Streak SRM launcher causing more damage to the Smoke Jaguar assault Mech, the Kingfisher tried to adjust again but Jal Steiner fired his lasers and missiles again causing more damage to the assault Mech. The Smoke Jaguar warrior fired the Kingfisher’s three lasers and autocannon again this time all three lasers went wide but the autocannon did not, the depleted-uranium shells ripped into the torso and left arm armour causing no heavy damage. Cutting right Jal flicked a control that set the Streak SRM launcher on auto-fire, as soon as the launcher acquired a lock the missiles would fire. Moving he triggered his lasers destroying the Kingfisher’s autocannon, at the same time the SRMs launched striking the Kingfisher with six high powered explosive missiles. The Kingfisher tried to return fire however the warrior was not skilled at concentrating shots one laser struck the torso while another struck the undamaged right leg, Jal Steiner struck back with both lasers and missiles causing more damage, the lasers broke through the Kingfisher’s torso causing internal damage. The Kingfisher staggered not for the first time, this fight was nearing its end and it had only just begun.
Walking through the battlefield Zane looked for another target just then the comm. frequency crackled “Ebon Jaguar pilot, this is MechWarrior Camilla piloting the Owens. I challenge you to a battle of warriors.†The voice sounded like she was young Zane turned on the Jaguar Mech making a quick scan the Owens, a newer Inner Sphere OmniMech design built in the Draconis Combine. This one had been upgraded with Clan technology making it a more powerful foe however it weighed only thirty-five tons and should still not cause Zane‘s heavy Mech trouble.
“I accept your challenge MechWarrior†Zane said firing the Ebon Jaguar’s arm mounted autocannons one completely missed but the other hit the left arm. The Owens accelerated to near one hundred-and-thirty kilometres per hour, the Owens opened fire with twin five-tube LRM launchers two tight groupings of missiles slammed into the Ebon Jaguar’s right side and the Owens pilot continued forward firing both medium lasers and a single small laser hitting the Ebon Jaguar’s back and leg armour. “Nice move†Zane said as the Owens disappeared into the fight Zane could not fire without risking hitting someone else breaking duelling rules. Instead of firing Zane followed the Owens movements with his eyes and scanners, the light Mech dodged and ran then turned and began closing on the Ebon Jaguar again launching ten more LRMs, again tightly packed missiles slammed into the Ebon Jaguar indicating that the Owens carried advanced Artemis IV Fire Control Systems (FCS) for its missiles increasing their accuracy. Zane opened fire with both of his own Mech’s LRM racks, this time his weapons did telling damage with well over half the thirty LRMs striking the Owens.
Amazingly the Owens pilot remained upright and continued to close hitting the Ebon Jaguar with both medium lasers, Zane triggered another autocannon and an SRM pack striking the Owens the light Mech staggered but continued to come. The Owens passed behind the Ebon Jaguar firing its medium and small lasers again Zane twisted the Mech’s torso left tracking the travelling Owens and struck out with both autocannon and both SRM racks showering the Owens in fire, once again the Mech seemed to be walking on so Zane opened up with his LRMs as well knocking the Mech down. The Owens hit the ground and ran across the ground on its chest. The Mech stopped moving but Zane decided that if the warrior survived she would be his bondsman, she had proven herself worthy of being a Nova Cat warrior. Turning looking for another target he noticed that there were no Smoke Jaguars still standing, the Trial was over the Nova Cats had been victorious. This was how battles should be fought and won, fast and with honour, Zane immediately moved to the Owens to see if the Mechs pilot had survived.
-
Smoke Jaguar Hall
Strana Mechty, Hall of the Khans
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
11th November 3058
ilKhan Lincoln Osis looked at his saKhan, Brandon Howell “two days ago the Nova Cats took our supply base at Transfer Facility Four, just outside the Inner Sphere Occupation Zone. They overran our garrison force, captured three DropShips, a JumpShip and six warehouses of supplies destined for the Inner Sphere.†He said pacing back and fourth “and you thought they were no threat to our plans?â€
“A mistake, what retribution shall we take?â€
“Something simple…†the ilKhan said quietly “but something clear and to the heart.†He said thinking closer to home “like the BattleMech factory on Barcella, we will take it from the Nova Cats, that factory is their primary factory of front-line OmniMech Factory in the Homeworlds.†Wherever the Nova Cats had gone they could not afford such a loss and their front-line forces would be crippled by loosing such a factory.
“We have no front-line Clusters in the Homeworlds, the only units in fighting shape are your Bodyguard and the Jaguar’s Den Command Trinary, my unit, neither is large enough to take a primary factory and I would not like to rely on Second-Line forces from Huntress.†Secretly the Smoke Jaguars had replaced most of the Second-Line forces on Huntress with captured Inner Sphere Mech, some had Clan weapons but mostly the warriors were old and inferior to any Front-Line MechWarrior or Elemental, they were piloting inferior Mechs making them totally unreliable in anything but defence, perhaps even that.
“The Jaguar’s Rage is in the Homeworlds isn’t it?†Osis said mentioning the Texas-class Battleship, the Clan’s flagship, the saKhan nodded the vessel was orbiting Huntress receiving supplies “good I believe the Anna Rosse, the Nova Cats precious York-class Destroyer, and the True Vision, their flagship Congress-class Frigate, are both still in the Homeworlds. Send a message to Galaxy Commander Karl Devalis and inform him that in six days time the Jaguar’s Rage will challenge the Anna Rosse and the True Vision to a Trial of Possession for the Barcella OmniMech factory. If no-one is there waiting for them the factory will be ours by default.†He said confident that the Smoke Jaguar navy crew could defeat their Nova Cat kin despite the Nova Cat’s inherent naval skill, which rivalled the Snow Ravens.
Near Orbit
Barcella System, Clan Space
Clan Homeworlds, Kerensky Cluster
14th November 3058
The Jaguar’s Rage moved through the New Barcella system the Texas-class Battleship was one of the biggest vessels available weighing in at just over one-and-a half million tons the vessel was the largest of all Clan Smoke Jaguar deadly in all situations just like the Clan and the animal it was named for. Ahead hung the two Nova Cat WarShips the Anna Rosse, a York-class Destroyer/Carrier, and the True Vision, a Congress-class Frigate and laughingly the vessel the Nova Cat Navy called their Flagship. The Jaguar’s Rage weighed more than both vessels put together. As the Nova Cat vessels closed four DropShips and sixty fighters launched from the capital ships in retaliation the Jaguar’s Rage launched her own six DropShips and forty fighters it would be a tough fight between the support craft but the superior size of the Jaguar’s Rage should prevail in the battle.
The Anna Rosse came at the Jaguar’s Rage travelling at near flank speed her fighters and DropShips close the ship closing head on presenting the smallest possible target for the Jaguar’s Rage’s gunners. The Texas’ however needed only a small target for her primary armament to cause damage, the four Heavy Naval PPCs mounted in the Jaguar’s Rage’s bow lashed out first with three striking the front armour of the destroyer but the Anna Rosse continued to close firing Medium Naval PPCs and Lasers causing light damage. The True Vision was completely out of sight uninvolved in the battle leaving the Anna Rosse to face a vessel twice her size, the Jaguar’s Rage crew became fixated on the rapidly closing York-class Destroyer/Carrier forgetting about the Congress.
The Killer Whale Capital Anti-ship Missiles of the Jaguar’s Rage lashed out one struck a Nova Cat DropShip and the vessel exploded into flame killing all hands aboard in an instant, that was generally what happened when a DropShip attacked an enemy WarShip, the capital weapons on board a WarShip were no use against an aerospace fighter however against DropShips they were devastating. The Anna Rosse and her fighters continued forward the Jaguar’s Rage’s own fighters and DropShips charged forward in an attempt to break-up the Nova Cat formations however the Nova Cat’s advantage in numbers and the Anna Rosse’s tightly packed anti-aerospace fighter guns took down many Smoke Jaguar fighters before one Nova Cat fighter could be destroyed significantly tipping the balance in the Nova Cat favour, if the WarShips could survive long enough for the fighters to take out the Smoke Jaguar auxiliary craft then the Nova Cat fighters could win the battle as the Jaguar’s Rage lacked significant anti-fighter weapons and was very vulnerable to fighter attacks.
As the Texas charged its Heavy Naval PPC’s once more the Anna Rosse banked sharply to port immediately the guns along the York’s sides opened up putting a broadside of Heavy Autocannon and Lasers into the front of the Jaguar’s Rage ruining the Battleship’s forward armour, the Jaguar’s Rage’s own forward Naval PPCs now charged ripped into the Anna Rosse’s starboard flank destroying armour and two naval laser batteries. The Jaguar’s Rage followed the PPC assault up with Naval Missiles and as the vessel turned pitting broadside against broadside the Jaguar’s Rage unleashed a full barrage of twelve class-55 Naval Lasers over half slammed into the York’s side armour. The Anna Rosse’s armour crumpled under the onslaught and almost immediately there were internal explosions inside the Anna Rosse as systems aboard the vessel began to fail.
The Nova Cat crew aboard the Anna Rosse fired again once more before the magazines buried deep inside the vessel cooked off completely and exploded ripping through the destroyer blowing the once proud vessel to pieces. There was a cheer aboard the Jaguar’s Rage as the vessel exploded they had defeated the Nova Cats now all they had to do was destroy some fighters and this battle was over. The cheer was short-lived however as the True Vision opened fire with its own barrage of Naval Autocannon and Missile fire slamming into the Jaguar’s Rage‘s rear armour and engines.
Mounting heavier and more numerous Autocannons than a standard Congress the True Vision supported by the Anna Rosse’s surviving fighters and the surviving Nova Cat DropShips had taken care of the remaining Smoke Jaguar fighters and now together they attacked the Jaguar’s Rage. The True Vision’s fire ripped into the Jaguar’s Rage destroying Naval lasers and causing hull breaches however the mighty Battleship refused to give up absorbing the damage with its thick armour. Now the only chance of victory the Smoke Jaguar crew had was to destroy the True Vision before the Nova Cat fighters and DropShips began causing heavy damage. As the mighty Texas turned the crew returned fire on the True Vision with its Heavy Naval PPCs, missiles and lasers causing damage across the Congress, the Jaguar’s Rage’s gunners were unable to concentrate their fire, although damaged the True Vision was still fully operational and it seemed that the Nova Cat Congress mounted heavier armour on top of the weapon modifications, perhaps it was not such an insignificant threat.
Surviving the onslaught from the Texas the Nova Cat frigate had given a new lease of life continued to close, with the Jaguar’s Rage turning the True Vision took the risk of crossing the Jaguar’s Rage’s bow. The Jaguar’s Rage crew attempted to hit the Congress however all they did was hit empty space and one of the Nova Cat DropShip, sending the crew spiralling to their deaths. The True Vision opened fire hitting the Battleship’s forward armour where the Anna Rosse had already caused so much damage, heavy Autocannon and capital missiles slammed into the Texas‘ bow. Suddenly without warning Jaguar’s Rage’s forward armour failed as two Killer Whale Capital Missiles fired from the True Vision’s forward launchers slammed into Texas’ forward facing reinforced Ferro-glass view ports. The first missile damaged the Battleship’s forward armour, the second missile went straight through the ports entering the innards of the mighty vessel. Travelling deep inside the Jaguar’s Rage the missile exploded setting off the Battleship’s own ammunition which ripped through the massive vessel tarring it apart, two nearby DropShips were caught in the explosion and destroyed by the debris.
With the Jaguar’s Rage destroyed the remaining fighters and DropShips were swiftly taken by the Nova Cats as Isorla, spoils of battle. On the ground the BattleMech factory was safe and secure in Nova Cat hands and on Strana Mechty ilKhan Lincoln Osis was not the happiest Clan warrior alive as he was given news of yet another defeat his forces had suffered at Nova Cat hands.
-
Strategic Planning and War Room
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
15th November 3058
As Commanding-General of the Star League all nations of the new Star League were required to submit forces to Victor before any action would be taken. Far inside the Federated Suns its own First Kathil Uhlans, two Rabid Fox Special Forces teams in Battle Armour and two Fox-class Corvettes were confirmed however so far no other nation had sent any force or word of what forces they would send to the Smoke Jaguar Homeworld of Huntress.
Standing there looking at the map Victor missed Marshal of Armies Morgan Hasek-Davion as he walked into the command room, buried under the Davion Palace, behind him was a familiar face General Ariana Winson commander of the Eridani Light Horse Mercenary Brigade. “Victor†Morgan said quietly, Victor turned and noticed Ariana Winson standing there her presence indicated to Victor that their forces would join the new Star League but Victor need to hear it from her directly “General, welcome to New Avalon and to a room that few mercenaries have ever stepped.â€
“Thank You, First Prince†Ariana said testing the ground only recently Victor had worn the uniform of the old Federated Suns, now she tested to see if Victor had adopted the old rank of that nation instead of Archon-Prince the rank of the leader of the united Federated Commonwealth, Victor nodded “Sir, the Eridani Light Horse Regiments would like to accept your invitation to rejoin the Star League and would like to volunteer all three Regiments for duty on Huntress. Also I bring word from the Northwind Highlanders they are willing to place McLeod’s Regiment, the First Ghurkhas Infantry Battalion and a special company under your command for an extremely modest price, for mercenaries.†She said handing Victor the Highlanders mercenary contract glancing over it Victor smiled having the Highlanders, one of the oldest and most elite Mercenaries available in the entire Inner Sphere. Having them support the reborn Star League would add more strength to the force and more legitimacy, the old First Lord‘s bodyguard - the Black Watch Regiment - had originally been close to the Highlanders with many, many warriors of that famous regiment from Northwind, the Highlanders Homeworld.
“Sir, the Nadir Point Recharge Station reports that eight ComStar WarShips and twelve JumpShips just entered the system all IFF (Identification-Friend-or-Foe) are for the Star League. They say they have the Second Division and four WarShips for Serpent and Invader Galaxy supported by four WarShips for an Opposition Force (OppFor) for training purposes.†One of the rooms tech’s said from the Deep Space Sensor and Communication Station, Victor smiled.
“More troops for me, good to know it won’t just be me an the Uhlans.†Morgan said Ariana turned to look at Morgan. “General, some might say the Federated Suns are lording over Task Force Serpent and Bulldog and perhaps we are however I would like to show the Inner Sphere that we include the whole Inner Sphere in the command structure. Will you serve as my deputy commander? You do after all bring the largest force to the Task Force and plan on permanently serving the SLDF.†Morgan said looking to the former mercenary General and now the Star League General, Ariana Winson nodded her agreement and extended her hand shaking Morgan‘s and then Victor‘s hands in acceptance.
“What of the ComGuard? They will not like being left out of command decisions.â€
“Already sorted, Precentor Allan Beresick will become Commodore Beresick and will command the Naval Contingent of the force, being that you are likely to encounter Smoke Jaguar WarShips on the other side it made sense to have a seasoned WarShip commander in the hot-seat.†Victor said Ariana and Morgan both nodded.
“Sire, we are receiving a communication feed from Luthien via HPG it is Coordinator Hohiro Kurita.â€
“A live-feed?†Victor asked the tech nodded “it must be costing the Combine a fortune with ComStar.†Victor said under his breath interstellar communications was conducted by HPGs most were controlled by ComStar, although the Word of Blake apparently controlled several as well, maintaining a live-feed meant dozens of HPG stations on as many worlds had to be active at once costing millions of C-Bills. Very few people could afford such an expense and so only nations did it, and even then it was rarely “Put him through on the main screen.†the Tech nodded again and within a few moments Coordinator Hohiro Kurita’s face appeared on the screen. “Coordinator, it is good to see you in fine healthâ€
“I thank you, Victor-san†Hohiro said giving a slight bow, they had become friends on Outreach. “Because much of the DCMS will be fighting in Bulldog (Inner Sphere Operation Codename) I cannot give you a BattleMech regiment.†Hohiro shifted as he noticed Victor’s displeasure at this, the only way they would be victorious would be if they had the full support of both Serpent and Bulldog. Victor had expected full support from the Draconis Combine and prayed his friend had not abandoned the new Star League at the first operation. “Instead I have made available a Kyushu-class Frigate, four assault DropShips and three Draconis Elite Strike Teams (DEST) outfitted Kage Armour, the most advanced Battle Armour we can field. They are currently on the Combine side of our borders awaiting clearance to enter Federated Suns territory, where shall I direct them?†Victor involuntary glanced at Morgan despite their alliance under the Star League a Combine WarShip in Federated Suns space without escort was almost unthinkable.
“Hohiro, I cannot allow your frigate to enter Federated Suns space unescorted†he noticed Hohiro’s expression turn sour “if the frigate entered our space unescorted I could not guarantee its safety, I’m sure you understand.†Victor pause glancing at a nearby screen pretending to take in the data “the WarShip Intrepid will be in the Breed…†he glanced at Morgan who nodded, the Fox-class Corvette was undergoing trials throughout the Draconis March “…in the Breed system in two days, from there the Kyushu will be allowed entrance and safe conduct to the Defiance system.†Although the Corvette would stand no chance against a Frigate it still gave the impression that the Federated Suns was guarding itself against the possible threat from the Draconis Combine.
“I understand Prince Davion, old rivalries die hard†Hohiro said nodding slowly, he looked slightly disappointed but understood. The two men could become friends in combat against a mutual enemy but nations would take longer to heal old wounds. “the Haruna will wait for your signal.†Hohiro said cutting the link.
“This might actually work†Ariana said quietly.
“Maybe†Victor said turning from the video link back to the map. “Morgan make sure the Intrepid’s skipper takes them nowhere near Kentares, as the Coordinator said ‘Old Rivalries Die Hard’†Victor said walking from the room, Kentares IV had been a black spot in the history between the Combine and the Federated Suns for centuries. During one of the Wars that had ravaged the Inner Sphere a Combine leader had been killed there and in retaliation the Combine commander had ordered the death of the entire population, eighty-five percent of the population had been killed before the Federated Suns had regained control of the world.
Throne Room
Forbidden City, Sian
Capellan Confederation
14th November 3058
Sang-iang-jung Talon Zahn Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao’s military Warlord stood in front of the Chancellor’s throne off to the side was Duchess Isis Marik, Sun-Tzu’s long term fiancé and the daughter of Thomas Marik, “Sir, Kingston’s Legionaries have mustered and are ready to leave to join the Star League force.†Talon said naming the token Capellan unit Sun-Tzu had selected the Legionaries were a former-Mercenary Unit that Sun-Tzu had brought under the Capellan banner, they were a Regular-rated Regiment and known for questionable tactics. A perfect token unit for the new League and their suicidal strike against the Smoke Jaguars, Sun-Tzu nodded, what was better was the Legionaries commander believed it was a great honour to be chosen.
“Good, clear them to leave and tell Colonel Kingston he has my full support and I wish to see his troops return safe and well.†He said quietly thoughtlessly “can we do anything to take advantage of the rest of the Inner Sphere’s pre-occupation?â€
“Our Chaos March operations could be accelerated and your Xin-Sheng operations could perhaps be brought to the fore.â€
“Good, what about St Ives?â€
“St Ives Compact is a sovereign State of the Star League, any operation against them will turn the Inner Sphere against you Sun-Tzu†Isis said as Talon raised one hand to his earpiece.
“What is it Zahn?†Sun-Tzu said quietly giving Isis a ‘quiet’ look, her input was not required.
“Sir, I have House Master Shiao-zhang Rachel Moore of Warrior House Lu Sann at the main gates. She is requesting an audience immediately, she says it regards the Star League and the Capellan’s standing in the Inner Sphere.
“A bit melodramatic.†Isis muttered quietly moving off to one side, Talon tracked her movements with a frown on his face.
“Chancellor, I have known Rebecca Moore for several years and although she is young for a House Master and prone to quick choices she is one hundred percent loyal to House Liao and you, she certainly is not melodramatic.†Talon said glancing angrily at Isis “she is good at seeing opportunities when others do not.†Talon Zahn said quietly, Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao nodded and Talon raised his hand to his ear once more “send House Master Moore in.†He said into the comm. within a few minutes Rebecca Moore arrived in the Throne Room, Rebecca Moore was twenty-nine years old and had shot through the Warrior House ranks to lead on of the Confederation‘s most elite formations despite her none Capellan ancestry.
“Chancellor, I will come straight to my point. I wish to take my House to Huntress as part of the SLDF, we will bring honour to the Capellan Confederation and ensure the SLDF bring Clan Smoke Jaguar to its knees.†Rebecca Moore said
“House Master, I thank you for your straightness now allow me to be equally as blunt the mission to Huntress is a suicide mission. Any unit that goes to Huntress will die.†Sun-Tzu said looking at the House Master, she never flinched looking directly at Sun-Tzu who looked to Talon Zahn who fought for a moment then nodded. “As you wish House Master, Kingston’s Legionaries is preparing to leave for Davion space your force is to join them. I will order Colonel Kingston to report to and support your House in all ways.â€
“Of course Chancellor†Rebecca said quietly “we will destroy the Smoke Jaguars and bring great glory to the Confederation.†She said saluting before leaving the throne room. Sun-Tzu waited for the House Master to leave then turned to Talon Zahn.
“Ensure our forces and our plans are adapted to one less Warrior House.†The Chancellor said to his Warlord who grimly nodded “and send a message to the First Lord Marik and Commanding-General Davion of the forces we have put forward to Task Force Serpent.†Talon nodded once more and moved out of the Throne Room.
“What if they complete their mission?†Talon dared to ask Sun-Tzu looked at him then at Isis, her rebellious streak was rubbing off on his aide now as well, that would have to stop. Sun-Tzu ignored the question got up and headed for the exit.
“He truly see this as an impossible task doesn‘t he?†Isis asked Talon once the Chancellor had left, Talon rolled his eyes at Isis then left himself, more than ever since coming to Sian Isis felt alone.
-
Ioto Galactic Enterprises and Bowie Industries
Port Sydney Shipyards, Alarion
Alarion Province, Lyran Alliance
16th November 3058
The Alarion shipyards have been around since the era of the First Star League, during its height the shipyards could produce six WarShips at once and produce various other DropShips, fighters and JumpShips. During the Succession Wars this capacity had diminished to only a couple of JumpShip lines with the occasional DropShip and fighter line being added with no more WarShips for centuries. During the Lyran alliance with the Federated Suns Prince Hanse Davion had concentrated on upgrading the Galax, New Syrtis and Kathil shipyards in the Federated Suns slowing the development of the Lyran WarShip Program. Luckily Archon-Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, during his short rein, had diverted funding to Alarion just before the Lyran Secession and now the first WarShip the Fox-class LAS Katrina Steiner was nearing completion as was a second shipyard construction line. Sitting in the gravity-deck of the Corporate Headquarters for Ioto Galactic Enterprises, primary fundraiser and owner of the Alarion facility, Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood, Head of the LAAF Admiralty, looked out at the WarShip under construction. Soon the vessel known as the Katrina Steiner would be her command, behind the Admiral stood Duke Anatoly Serfass, Noble leader of Alarion and a major fundraiser of the refurbishment of the Shipyards, he stood near the complementary drinks bar.
From the side door Duke Clarence Vanderzham, owner of Bowie Industries, and Seamus Zuiderwyk, CEO of Ioto Galactic Enterprises, entered with two aides. Both Anatoly Serfass and Lyn Hood both turned to greet them “What is going on gentleman? Khan Phelan Kell of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) was willing to give me a tour of his command ship, the Werewolf, a McKenna-class Battleship. That would have given us a great insight into Clan WarShip construction and operation, instead I am here looking at a vessel that is still not complete.â€
“I understand your frustration, Fleet Admiral however, we have discovered something rather exciting that we think could turn the Lyran WarShip Program on its head.†Duke Clarence Vanderzham said smiling as he moved to the drinks bar, he was quite youthful for the CEO of one of the Alliance’s biggest and most profitable enterprises.
“Fleet Admiral Hood, what do you think the Archon would say if we could give her two fully operational seven hundred-and-fifty thousand ton Heavy Cruisers in two years?†Seamus Zuiderwyk said walking over to the windows leaning on the window frame. He had a right to be pleased with himself, if they could deliver on this promise then they would be giving the Alliance two WarShips that were three times the size of the Fox-class a WarShip a vessel worthy of the title of Lyran Alliance Flagship.
“I would say that you have been drinking Mr Zuiderwyk.†Lyn said smelling the glass in front of her, the alcohol was not that strong, “it will take us at least six years to complete one Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser and in the meantime we will have two perhaps three Foxes. The Lyran Alliance has not the money or the resources to begin constructing another WarShip class, the design costs would cost billions alone, it’s something we can not afford.†Lyn said she left out the fact that the Lyran Alliance military budget was mainly concentrated on upgrading ground forces and the defences alone the Clan borders not on constructing WarShips which could cost as much as a whole planets gross yearly profit.
“The cost of designing the new vessel will cost you nothing. All it would cost is the upgrading of another shipyard and the cost of weapons and labour. The labour I am sure we could find on Alarion, with the Duke‘s support.†Clarence Vanderzham said taking a drink over to the planetary duke, the fleet admiral and the other CEO.
“Alarion would happily support such a venture†the Duke said having the system here was a boon for his people but he had to ask “How can you make such a promise?†Duke Anatoly Serfass asked “your companies have not nearly enough money to spend on research or construction of a base hull let alone two.â€
“Ah, but Duke you forget the planetary asteroid belt hides much of the rest of the system. Beyond the belt there are four planets in this system.†Seamus Zuiderwyk said “eight days ago we were looking at records damaged during the Succession Wars and we found an interesting file and sent out a DropShip to investigate the claim. We thought we might find some resources or information instead we found something far more exciting.†He said pressing a button a large plasma screen lowered out of the roof the screen brought up two long thin vessels being moved by several smaller Tug-class DropShips. “we found these around the last planet the asteroids and radiation had masked their presence for centuries. They have no weapons and some structural damage from meteor hits and age, however with a little work we can have them fully operational once more. We even have full schematically data on the class in our computers found along with their approximate location.†He said as the screen changed to a breakdown of each vessel’s basic performance statistics and armament.
“All we need is funding and a go-ahead to continue.†Clarence Vanderzham said, Lyn Hood looked to Serfass who nodded his support then turned back to the men.
“I will need to talk to the Archon.†the Fleet Admiral said, after six hours of conversation with the Archon and several other advisers she returned “please proceed as soon as possible gentleman. The Archon is very pleased at your initiative at looking for the ships and said that both your companies will be well rewarded once they are in service. Only one question what are their names and the class name so she can broadcast the find the nation?â€
“The vessels are known as the Athens and the Cairo, they are the last examples of the Hyperion Heavy Cruiser-class an escort vessel of the great Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser. They served the Lyran Commonwealth throughout the Star League-era.â€
“Well hopefully the Athens and Cairo will soon escort the Mjolnir-class into battle and will be the standard bearers of the Lyran Navy into the next century.†Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood said raising her glass briefly toasting the others in the room. The presence of these craft would significantly boost the power of the Lyran WarShip fleet.
Hall of the Khans, Nova Cat Hall
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
18th November 3058
Sitting behind his desk Karl Devalis looked at Star Colonel Jal Steiner and the document in front of him, still unopened. “Why are you here with this and not one of the two Galaxy Commanders that are on planet with this information?â€
“The Khan gave me this, he asked me to give you it once we arrived in the Homeworlds, it is unopened and now I will travel with MechWarrior Zane to the Carns Bloodname Trial on Tranquil.†He said looking to the seated Galaxy Commander.
“The Khan?†He asked the Nova Cat WarShips had maintained communication silence on their approach to the Clan Homeworlds.
“Khan Santin West, Galaxy Commander.â€
“Khan Santin West…very good Star Colonel, dismissed†Karl said quietly a small smile crossed his lips, Jal was unsure if he was acknowledging what the Jal Steiner had said or giving Santin West his congratulations from afar. Jal Steiner turned to leave and motioned for the doors “and Star Colonel wish MechWarrior Zane my best and inform him that I expect him to return victorious.†Steiner nodded and left the room. Karl reached forward to the sealed envelope and opened it, from the inside Karl removed an envelope and two matching insignia Karl gasped as he read the new Khan‘s orders.
A standard hour later he sent a message to the Khans of Clans Diamond Shark and Snow Raven, both Clans assistance would be needed for this plan to succeed. A few hours later Karl moved from the Nova Cat’s Hall and headed for the Diamond Shark’s Hall, there he met up with both Khan Barbara Sennet, Clan Diamond Shark, and Khan Lynn McKenna, Clan Snow raven. “Galaxy Commander, how can we assist the Nova Cats at this time?†Barbara Sennet said as he entered then she noticed his new insignia “my apologies saKhan Devalis, how we assist?†She asked indicating to the seats Karl sat down as did the two Khans.
“Your Clans control the Samarkand Naval Brian Cache located off Point Alpha Six in the Delios system the Nova Cats require access to the vessels within it.†Karl said getting straight to the point both Khans exchanged looks, rarely did the Clans activate more of their stored WarShips, unless they had a major operation planned.
“saKhan Devalis, why do the Nova Cats require another WarShip or several WarShips?†Lynn McKenna asked, the Snow Ravens controlled a sizable fleet of active WarShips and liked to keep tabs on the other Clans naval forces, and since the Nova Cats already had a sizable navy she was obviously worried at the Nova Cats activating more naval forces.
“Recently the Anna Rosse was destroyed and the True Vision, our flagship, was crippled over Barcella by Clan Smoke Jaguar‘ Jaguar’s Rage. We have decided to renovate several SLDF-era vessels and create a new class of WarShip that will act as the Nova Cat’s new flagship and command vessels for future operations.â€
“An expensive prospect saKhan, how does the Nova Cats plan to do this? Your Clan controls no Shipyards.†Lynn McKenna said, traditionally the Nova Cats traded with the Snow Ravens or the Diamond Sharks for assistance in any major retrofit operation.
“Our Clan has obtained new resources in the last few months, information will be forthcoming when we know exactly what we have.†Karl said keeping his answers guarded, so far the Nova Cats had told no-one of their new home, not even their allies knew of the Nova Cat’s Den. “On the table I place these WarShips in trade, how you deploy them up is up to you, in exchange we want three Avatar-class Cruisers.†He said placing a computer pad on the table Khan Barbara Sennet reached out and took the pad and began looking over the information.
“Interesting you are willing to exchange four transport/merchant vessels and two destroyers for three cruisers, a very militaristic approach, what are the Nova Cats up to?â€
“All will be revealed soon, Khan Santin West will be returning to the Homeworlds in approximately eight weeks, he will explain all then.†Karl promised, in his order Khan West had said he would return to the Homeworlds but not when, all Karl was interested in was securing the three Cruisers.
Barbara Sennet looked to Lynn McKenna “the possession of another two Carracks and another Merchant would be helpful to our trade, the Snow Ravens could take the third Carrack and both Lola-III destroyers increasing your own trade fleet and your WarShip forces.†The Diamond Shark Khan said, it was obvious from her tone that a trade was definitely on the cards.
“I would agree with that, and what of the Colossus DropShips? The more interesting side of the deal.†The Snow Raven Khan said, the Colossus were ancient and not in use by any Clan, as far as either Clan was aware none had survived to see the Exodus, the Nova Cats certainly had found some new resources.
“The depending on their condition I believe I can convince the Goliath Scorpions to purchase both vessels they are always interested in relics of the Star League, split the proceeds fifty-fifty.†Barbara said, Lynn nodded Karl who had remained silent the decided to speak.
“So we have a deal?†He asked at the system’s jump point the Nova Cat WarShips were waiting if necessary the Nova Cats were willing to fight a trial over the vessels.
“Aye, saKhan Devalis we have a deal, have your people deliver these WarShips to the Cache and they can take possession of the three cruisers.†Barbara said standing Lynn McKenna and Karl both followed suit, with a slight nod Karl left the room. “What are the Cats up to?â€
“Unknown, up until recently they have had only a single Galaxy based in the Homeworlds with the Nova Cats consolidating their forces in only a few positions. However, I have reports of at least two more Galaxies have arrived back in the Homeworlds with the Nova Cat trade fleet, it appears they have secured their new home and decided to return in strength, from what we can tell none of their forces appear battle damaged.†Lynn said.
“Perhaps they have colonised more worlds, like they did during the Golden Century†Barbara suggested, during that however the Nova Cats had worked closely with the Snow Ravens and the Diamond Sharks this time neither had been consulted on any colonisation efforts “Where is this new home?†Barbara asked.
“Unknown, reports we received suggested they were moving through the Draconis Combine Periphery and they hit several Smoke Jaguar positions costing the Jaguars heavily. Which is why the Smoke Jaguars attacked and destroyed the Nova Cat vessels over Barcella.â€
“The Nova Cats have always had mystical leanings and have always taken strange paths, however they have always been strong allies when they have been needed in peace or war, I will support them.†The Diamond Shark Khan said, the Snow Raven Khan remained silent she did not have such faith in the Nova Cats but for now they were little threat to her Clan.
-
Battle Armour Bay One
Deep Space Research Centre
Smoke Jaguar controlled Deep Periphery
20th November 3058
Although clad in his Clan’s newest Battle Armour Trooper Kennel felt angry, three years ago he had been injured in battle, the injury had healed but lowered his combat effectiveness enough to stop him from taking part in front-line combat. Now while other warriors his age were fighting Inner Sphere troops he was stuck on a research base with members of the scientist caste, there was no chance of him ever winning rank or a Bloodname on this rock and with his injury there was no chance of real combat at all. “That was good Elemental Kennel, another run like your that and we should have the data we need.â€
“Another run…†Kennel said warily “yes, Scientist-General†he said closing the faceplate of his suit. Moving out of the bay he crossed the small parade ground, exited the base and climbed a small hill entering the firing rage “I am in position Scientist-General.â€
“Very good Elemental Kennel. Begin, all weapon systems and tracking are active†the Scientist said Kennel smiled, the active weapons had not tracked him well in the last four test runs, the Battle Armour‘s prototype stealth armour was very effective if a little dishonourable.
Ducking down low Kennel ran forward accelerating forward, the suit soon reached its top running speed of just over thirty-two kilometres per hour. The stealth armour shielding it from longer range weapons, the laser turrets and long range missiles were useless. Kennel laughed although the suit was less manoeuvrable than standard Elemental suits they were fast along the ground and were harder to hit due to the stealth characteristics of their armour. Crossing between a group of turrets the suit’s darker stealth armour disappeared from the turret sensors and allowed Kennel to reach the end zone, triggering the extended-range small laser twice Kennel struck and destroyed both targets in quick succession.
“Base this is Kennel, test complete†he said into the internal communication system built into the suit. All he got was static over the comm. “base this is Kennel do you receive? how did is do?†Still nothing turning around he looked back at the base, everything looked normal enough so he started out perhaps it was a problem with his communication systems.
Reaching the base a few minutes later Kennel realised that everything was not normal the gates had been kicked in by something. Rounding the gates he saw an Inner Sphere built Panther, a thirty ton BattleMech, standing in the parade ground with a pair of flatbed vehicles close. With a deafening blast the Panther opened fire with its main weapon a Particle Projection Cannon. The lightning bolt from the PPC slammed into the research centre doors which held up to the blast. The facility had been built to sustain attack and could sustain some hits but not a constant barrage, the Panther fired again the doors continued to hold for now.
“Stavag, bandit caste this is Kennel, of Clan Smoke Jaguar, you shall die for your actions.†He said charging forward grabbing the Panther’s leg with his suits battle claw. The pilot was obviously experienced enough to try and shake him clear however Kennel was having none of it climbing the Panther’s humanoid body firing his laser cutting into the leg armour of the BattleMech, moving up the Mech he leaned off the Panther and fired at one of the flatbed trucks, the laser hit the fuel tank of the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and the vehicle exploded killing six people around it. The Panther pilot continued to shake about trying to knock him clear but Kennel ignored it, climbing higher up the Mech he fired into the back of the Mech, damaging the Mech’s lighter back armour causing more damage. The Panther stumbled forward then the pilot followed the MechWarrior’s best defence against Battle Armour, deliberately falling forward the pilot rolled the Mech onto its back Kennel barely got out of the way. “Ha! Stavag you cannot beat me, I am Kennel Smoke Jaguar. You will never beat me†suddenly in the heat of combat he felt wonderful his old injury causing him no trouble at all.
“But I will†someone said over the comm. looking at his sensors Kennel noticed something else had moved onto his sensors “break off Joachim, I will handle this little pest.†The Panther moved off, Kennel turned around to see a fifty-five ton Vapour Eagle (Goshawk) its weapons raised in his direction. “Smoke Jaguar warrior I give you a choice surrender or die.â€
“I will not surrender to you Stavag dark caste outlaws, this is a Smoke Jaguar facility you are attacking, I am sworn to defend it, your actions here will not be forgotten…†Kennel said triggering the suits laser once more destroying the second flatbed just as another two rounded the corner it was a punitive attack but Kennel felt better. The Vapour Eagle warrior opened fire with his Mech’s four heavy machine guns mounted in one arm and large pulse laser mounted in the other. The machine guns ripped the battle armours armour with hundreds of bullet hits and the large pulse laser destroyed all remains of the suit killing Kennel giving him the warrior’s death he had craved for years.
“Of course they will, this is a tiny base that no-one cares about.†the Vapour Eagle pilot said over an open frequency walking forward his weapons trained now on the facility “you have one minute to surrender or we kill you.†He said into the comm. the scientists inside were out of the building within thirty seconds. The remaining ground troops herded the scientists together while other new arrivals removed all equipment from the base “rig explosives beside the power station, make it look like an accident, take the scientists and the techs, we might need them later.†the Vapour Eagle pilot said moving out, on the left leg of the Mech was the insignia of Clan Burrock, the remaining two flatbeds now loaded with equipment and scientists followed as did the Panther, moments later the entire base was engulfed in an explosion from the main power plant.
Carns Bloodname Trials
Tranquil, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
24th November 3058
MechWarrior Zane looked up at his Arctic Cheetah as techs moved over the OmniMech changing weapons systems giving the Mech an entirely new profile and combat stance. Sitting in the cockpit was Bondswoman Camilla, the Smoke Jaguar Owens pilot he had taken in the periphery raids, “Camilla, will the Mech be ready?†He asked, the former-Smoke Jaguar looked at him then over the Mech.
“Aye, MechWarrior Zane†she said “the Mech will be ready†she said dismounting the Mech, luckily the Arctic Cheetah was of low stature and she was able to quickly move to the deck unaided. “Are you ready Zane?†She asked quietly, Camilla was a year older than Zane and despite her status as Zane’s bondswoman, and her history as a former Smoke Jaguar, the two had become friendly over their brief time together.
“Aye, I have a Wolf warrior named Alaric first. He pilots a Hankyu, forty-five tons heavier armour but it is slightly slower nothing I can’t handle.â€
“The Wolf warrior has probably looked at the terrain and been over ever inch of it a hundred times†she noticed Zane’s query look “the Trial my forbid such an action but the Wolves want the Nova Cats foothold out of the Carns Bloodhouse permanently.†she explained Zane nodded the Wolves hated the Nova Cats for their ownership of a Wolf Bloodname, the odds of success would be stacked against Zane.
“You will need your rest, I would get some sleep before you face Alaric, I will ensure you are woken before the trial.†Camilla said, Zane nodded and moved to leave “and you will succeed MechWarrior Zane.†Zane looked back briefly smiled and left the Mechbay, Camilla watched Zane leave then turned back to the Arctic Cheetah.
That afternoon Zane in his Arctic Cheetah walked onto the Trial area, roughly three hundred metres of open ground with some light trees and a few large rocks an almost perfect duelling area. At the other side of the trial area a sixty-five ton Hellbringer entered the area “this is MechWarrior Alaric of the Wolf Clan, I challenge you to a duel of warriors for the right of the Carns Bloodname.†Zane listened to the Wolf warrior, it was the right man but the wrong Mech the Wolves had substituted Alaric’s Mech for a Mech twenty tons heavier. MechWarriors were trained in various but most decided on a single class and specialized in it over all others, Zane could only hope Alaric was a Medium pilot and unfamiliar with the larger Hellbringer.
“This is Zane of the Nova Cats, I challenge you for the honour of this Bloodname.†Zane said keeping it simple, he looked at the sensor readout on the Hellbringer, although the twice the size of his Mech, the Hellbringer was slower and it’s armour was sub-standard for a heavy which would give Zane a chance. Looking at the Hellbringer’s armament he noticed a Gauss Rifle, an LB-autocannon and a pair of six-shot SRM racks a powerful opponent and a popular duelling design.
From across the plain a Gauss flew out missing the Arctic Cheetah by metres, the autocannon followed and struck home but it was a mere cluster shot which shattered over the Arctic Cheetah’s forward torso armour. Charging forward Zane immediately accelerated to one hundred-and-thirty kilometres per hour the Arctic Cheetah shot forward the Hellbringer’s Gauss Rifle and autocannon cycled, one hit from the Gauss Rifle would be enough to cripple the Arctic Cheetah.
Zane had also gone with a more aggressive weapons load an Extended-Range PPC in the left torso on a shoulder mount, two Extended Range Medium Lasers and a single small laser in the right torso. Zane opened fire with his PPC scoring a hit on the Hellbringer’s right arm just as Alaric fired again, this time with the distances shortening the second the autocannon missed however the Gauss Rifle struck home ripping the Arctic Cheetah’s left arm in half with a single supersonic slug Zane compensated for the loss maintaining his Mech’s balance but it was a warning of what the Hellbringer could do. Holding fire for a couple of seconds more he triggered the Arctic Cheetah’s six jump jets launching the OmniMech skyward on the climb the two Extended-Range Medium Lasers struck out stripping the left arm of the Hellbringer of all armour, the long muzzle of the rifle melted under the massive heat of the lasers, robbing the Mech of its best offensive weapon, amazingly the Gauss Rifle didn’t explode. Alaric obviously not ready for the attack stepped back but was able to trigger both SRM launchers peppering the Arctic Cheetah with missile Zane fought the Mech’s movements and landed the Mech upright but between a pair of trees.
Alaric turned triggering the autocannon again ripping into the rear armour of the Arctic Cheetah, the light OmniMech wailed at the hit and the stabilising gyro registered damage. Zane engaged his jump jets again, Zane launched the Mech backwards in one of the most difficult manoeuvres a MechWarrior could try. The Arctic Cheetah flew behind the Hellbringer once more and Zane triggered both medium lasers, the small laser and the PPC in mid-air ripping into the Hellbringer’s rear armour the heavy Mech stumbled forward and Zane noticed it fall just as the Arctic Cheetah landed. The Arctic Cheetah’s lightly armoured legs couldn’t handle such a move and the left leg broke in two just below the knee Zane was slammed back into his chair and found himself looking straight at the ceiling as the Mech slammed into the ground, the rear armour was breached again causing some engine damage flooding the cockpit with warm air “Stavag!†Zane cursed, Alaric would get a free strike on his downed Mech, fighting the Arctic Cheetah Zane fought his Mech and tried to raise it on one-and-a-half legs. Looking at the Hellbringer Zane saw the Wolf Mech still hadn’t stood up “did I just win?†Zane whispered just as the comm. system crackled.
“With MechWarrior Alaric’s Mech disabled due to damage the victory goes to MechWarrior Zane of Clan Nova Cat.†Zane couldn’t believe it, his PPC and lasers had caused heavy enough damage to disable the heavier Hellbringer.
An hour later Zane was back in the Mechbay with Camilla “what did you do to my Mech?†She said looking at him, she had watched the trial she knew well and fine what had happened but she was trying to show her frustration “it took me near six hours to get that Mech working in good shape and in six minutes you go and break it. How am I expected to keep Mech’s in the field with attrition like that?†She said her clothes were covered in grim and by the look on her face she expected more, looking at the Arctic Cheetah Zane could see why she was annoyed the left leg was severed below the knee, the armour was pitted back and front and the lasers in the left hand here fused after Zane had used that arm to prop up the Mech during the battle.
“You won’t have to keep my Mech working any longer Camilla†Zane said Camilla turned towards him questioning, as a bondswoman she was expected to be his tech/general servant and the only way out of that was for the Bondsmaster to cut her loose “give me your wrists†Zane said drawing his knife Camilla raised her hands, Zane reached forward and cut the bonds which fell to the ground. “Camilla you were formerly a Smoke Jaguar warrior, my Clan’s deadly enemy. However over the last couple of weeks you have become a sounding board and an excellent Tech for my clan, as a result I return you to MechWarrior status effective immediately. Speak with the quartermasters as soon as you get a chance for a uniform and a Mech assignment.†Camilla stood looking at the cut bonds the looked up and smiled looking to Zane with a brief nod she turned and walked away rubbing her wrists smiling, all warriors taken as bondsman dreamed of one thing to return to MechWarrior status.
Stellar Serpent (Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser)
High Orbit, Avon
Smoke Jaguar Occupation Zone
12th December 3058
“This is Galaxy Commander Erica Hazen of Clan Star Adder’s Beta Galaxy in response to attacks carried out by Clan Smoke Jaguar forces on Irece we have come. You will surrender this world to us or you will die for it.â€
“This is Star Colonel Paul Moon of Clan Smoke Jaguar, we refute your claim to this world. We have a full Galaxy on planet and will defend with all forces at our disposal.â€
“What no Trial of Possession? Have the Jaguars been that seduced by the Inner Sphere that they cannot follow our ways of combat.â€
“This world is of vital importance to the Smoke Jaguar Clan Galaxy Commander, we have thousands of tons of supplies on planet and will defend this with our full force. If there is to be a Batchall our first bid is four clusters of ground troops, two Aerospace trinaries and the York-class Carrier Lioness with full DropShip and fighter support, our final bid is the same.â€
“The Lioness? We see no WarShip, perhaps you should rethink your bid.†Hazen said just as sensors began to detect the Lioness coming around the planet. Sensors reported a Titan-class Carrier DropShip attached giving the WarShip even more fighters to throw into the fray.
“We stand by our bid Galaxy Commander, what is your bid?†Hazen had a choice she could order her troops to attack and face heavy damage and possibly defeat or she could retreat, lose face and invite a challenge from other members of the unit. The Galaxy Commander stood there for several moments then switched the communication system back to transmit.
“So be it Star Colonel Moon, do you wish to select a battleground for the trial?â€
“A battleground? We choose the planet and the space around her, no safcon will be given†Moon said telling Hazen that the Star Adders would receive no safe passage to the planet for their ground troops, this battle would be very bloody. Just then the Lioness began launching fighters, DropShips and arming her weapons including painting the Star Adder WarShips with full offensive sensors.
“Hell†she said turning to the vessel’s commander “destroy the Lioness, and ensure our DropShips make landfall.â€
“Gladly Galaxy Commander, sensors paint that York with full offensive firepower, helm prepare for full combat manoeuvring. Galaxy Commander I would be pleased if you and your DropShips could get off my ship, things are about to get busy up here.†He said Hazen nodded and moved towards the exit, soon he would lead the Star Adders to victory on the ground below them and WarShip Combat was way above his pay grade or experience, leave it to the experts.
Hall of the Khans, Karl Devalis Personnel Quarters
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
15th December 3058
A Khan’s quarters was not guarded on Strana Mechty as no Khan would ever attack another outside a trial. Karl Devalis had just returned to Strana Mechty from the Nova Cat holdings on Barcella, the new Nova Cat OmniMech under development there was progressing well. Walking down the corridor inside the heart of the Nova Cat halls he notice that the doors to his rooms were ajar, Karl pushed the door open slowly moving into the room. As soon as he was clear of the door a pair of hands grabbed him and his body was thrown onto the bed, the door slammed behind him and Karl rolled over onto his back looking for his attacker who was on him in seconds “well I am glad to see you too†Karl was able to get out as Sellen Cage landed on top of him on the bed.
Two hours later they were lying together on the floor wrapped in the Ghost Bear rug, the bed a crumpled heap behind him “why is it always my bed that gets crushed?â€
“Because your Khan isn’t here to complain about the noise, he is wherever the rest of your clan is, somewhere beyond the Outworlds Alliance claimed space.†She said Karl glanced her direction for a moment then tried to act innocent “so it is true, if Osis knew that he was right…â€
“How the hell did you find that out?â€
“The Smoke Jaguars had a member of their Watch on a Snow Raven WarShip which saw one of your trading fleets moving in that area. We in turn have a Watch operative in their Watch.†Karl shook his head ten years before today the very mention of the Clans spying on each other with agents inserted into each others Touman’s would have caused a massive amount of trials and possible full scale war. Seeing Karl’s reaction Sellen continued “Lincoln Osis wants your Clan in his grasp, he will do anything to get the Nova Cats where he wants you.â€
“Lincoln Osis wants a lot of things but like a spoiled freeborn child he can not have everything.†Karl said quietly, the comparison of Osis and a freeborn child was quite amusing but very appropriate, then again all Smoke Jaguars were like spoiled children to the other Clans. He turned back to Sellen “Why are you telling me this?†Karl asked so far she hadn’t asked for anything from Karl or the Nova Cats but she had given away some very important information.
“I think… I think I’m falling in love with you.†Sellen said quietly, rarely did Clan Trueborn warriors fall in love even rarely did Khans of different Clans fall in love, if other Khans or even warriors within their own Clans found out there would be trouble, big trouble.
“You love me…â€
“I think so†Sellen said, she had probably never been in love before Karl knew he hadn’t, all they had known was being good warriors now things had changed. Both warriors remained lying on the rug together for hours in silence, neither moved or made a single sound. Neither really knowing how to proceed or deal with these strange alien emotions.
Smoke Jaguar Hall
Hall of the Khans, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
16th December 3058
SaKhan Brandon Howell felt worried, reading the reports of the recent fighting on Avon angered him greatly however Howell worried how ilKhan Lincoln Osis would react when he found out. Suddenly with a large bang Osis walked into the room with a grand smile on his face “what are you so pleased about, ilKhan?†Brandon asked he never used Lincoln’s first name, they weren’t that close.
“The Watch have found the Nova Cats, or at least have a general location on their forces.â€
“Where are they?â€
“We suspect they are closer to the Inner Sphere than any other Clan near the Draconis Combine and Outworlds Alliance borders or in the nearby periphery.â€
“How did we find that out?â€
“A Watch/Merchant Operative was on a Snow Raven Merchant ship two days ago that ship detected four Nova Cat Carrack Merchants, a single Nova Cat Lola-III destroyer and their three newly acquired Avatar-class Cruisers heading for the inner sphere heading for the Outworlds Alliance area of space.â€
“What are they doing out there?â€
“Unknown, however it is possible that by now they are below the Tukayyid truce line. The Inner Sphere would not like that.†Lincoln said quietly pondering something, then he noticed Brandon’s worried look “what is the matter Howell? We have found out at least something about the Nova Cats, your not worrying about the Inner Sphere civilian problems again are you? We can handle the Inner Sphere problems after we handle the Nova Cats.â€
“The Nova Cats are not a threat to us, ilKhan, it is the Star Adders following Irece they have been causing trouble for us in the Inner Sphere Invasion corridor.â€
“Good for them, we will crush them if they attack us†Osis said.
“They attacked us four days ago†Brandon said handing the information to Osis and see the ilKhan’s face drop “although we destroyed their WarShip, the Stellar Serpent (Aegis-class), and devastated their Beta Galaxy we lost three clusters worth of troops and around ten thousand tons worth of supplies either destroyed or captured by the retreating Star Adders and the Lioness has been heavily damaged, we may even have to scuttle her.†Not for the first time recently the ilKhan exploded with rage.
-
Star Adder Hall
Hall of the Khans, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
16th December 3058 (the Same time)
Khan Cassius N’Buta sat in his small but very function office, he too was looking at the situation in the Inner Sphere however across from him was not another Star Adder warrior, instead Khan Thomas Perez of the newest Clan, the Stone Rhinos, sat opposite the Star Adder Khan. “Khan Perez, I have been impressed with how your Clan has worked over the last seven months, you have struck at targets you Clan can succeed in taking and have held what you have fought for. However, this cannot continue, the grace period will be over in five months and then the wrath of the entire Smoke Jaguar Clan will be upon you.†The Star Adder Khan said Perez remained completely neutral, the Jaguars were several times larger than the Stone Rhinos a single Galaxy of Jaguars supported by WarShips should be more than sufficient for the task of the Stone Rhino destruction.
“If the Smoke Jaguars come for us they will pay with ten lives for every Stone Rhino they kill.†Thomas said Cassius smiled, this man was filled with rage and correctly directed they could cause the ilKhan more trouble than he’d wish to count.
“Khan Perez, Thomas, I would like to make you an offer that will change your Clan’s future and bring the Smoke Jaguars to their knees.â€
“Perfect for a deathblow strike.†Thomas said, his eyes sparkled with the idea of the Smoke Jaguars end. “So what is you idea, Cassius?†Thomas asked using the same familiarity as the Star Adder Khan.
“Recently my Clan has struck at several of the Smoke Jaguar’s Inner Sphere holdings however the Star Adders cannot continue to make these strikes alone. I would like to make you an offer regarding joint operations against the Smoke Jaguars.â€
“The other Clans will never allow the Stone Rhinos to take Inner Sphere territory.†Perez said, the Clans had to fight trials for the honour to invade the Inner Sphere, the Stone Rhinos had done nothing.
“Neg, they will not allow you to enter the Inner Sphere as Stone Rhino flagged units. However we could offer you a chance to fight under Star Adder colours†he noticed Perez begin to raise, he had no wish for his Clan to become the Star Adder’s indentured slaves. “Khan Thomas, you would be under Contract not under Star Adder control. My suggestion would be for the Stone Rhinos to take over the Star Adder’s Periphery Holdings maintaining our supply lines and freeing up Star Adder forces for Inner Sphere work.â€
“The Periphery colonies would be a prize worth our notice, however, I want something else.†Perez said, Cassius smiled at least the Stone Rhino Khan was open to the idea.
“What did you have in mind?â€
“The Stone Rhinos will take your Periphery Colonies and hold them from all aggressor, maintaining your supply lines. However certain Stone Rhino units under contract with the Star Adders will operate in the Inner Sphere, any Inner Sphere territory we win will immediately become Star Adder territory however the Stone Rhino’s will take any bondsmen or material gains from our trials.†Cassius' smile never left his face, the Khan of the Stone Rhino Clan knew how to negotiate, by offering to fight under the Star Adder flag he would gain his Clan materials they would need to survive the inevitable Smoke Jaguar counter attacks and the Planets captured would benefit the Star Adders in the long run.
“Agreed, how much forces would you be willing to supply us?â€
“Our entire Touman, Seventeen Ground Clusters and two WarShips.†Thomas said, Cassius was shocked, the Stone Rhinos held territory on Strana Mechty and Dagda in the Homeworlds.
“What about your Homeworlds Territory?â€
“We can hold our territory at home and away well enough, you are unlikely to need all of our forces at once.â€
“Perhaps I can help with that, three weeks ago we discovered three ancient Essex Mk I-class Destroyers in a Brian Cache on the fringes of the Pentagon worlds. The vessels are obsolete by Clan standards however your Clan could have them to shore up your forces, the Smoke Jaguars still have several WarShips that could cause you serious damage.â€
“Very generous, Cassius. A chance to strike at the Smoke Jaguars is a worthwhile one, I agree. When do we begin?â€
“Soon, very soon.â€
Fairview (Avatar-class Cruiser)
Draconis Combine Periphery near Columbus Base
18th December 3058
En Route to the Nova Cat’s Den (Tortuga Dominions) the trading Star of Nova Cat WarShips, a Nova Cat Lola-III-class Destroyer and four Merchant Carrack-class Transport vessels, found two ComStar vessels sitting near the nadir point, one was an Essex-class Destroyer the other a Faslane-class Repair/Yardship. The Essex began moving to attack however when the three newly acquired Nova Cat Avatar-class Cruisers arrived the ComGuards began charging their Jump Drives attempting to escape alongside the Faslane. Both Essex and Faslane vessels quickly aborted their jumps as the Nova Cat WarShips closed within their jump radius and ordered them to stand-down. A WarShip attempting to jump while in close proximity to other vessels normally ended in only one way, the destruction of both vessels, the manoeuvre was known as a Crazy-Jane because only the craziest, or desperate, commanders ordered it on their crews most of the time the commander would just order the escaping vessel‘s destruction but obviously the Nova Cat commander wanted them alive.
Instead of boarding the vessels however the Nova Cat flotilla commander Star Admiral Fredrick Bavros opened up the comm. system and asked to speak to the ComGuard commander. “ComGuard commander, we do not wish your destruction. I want to talk to someone I can negotiate with over your release.†He said from the led Nova Cat vessel there was several minutes of dead silence then the comm. channel crackle with the ComGuard reply.
“Who do you want to talk to and why?†a female voice asked, communication trace signals pointed to the Essex.
“I want to talk to someone willing to talk to a clansmen instead of a shoot first approach, perhaps Precentor Padraig O’Bhaoil of Columbus Base†he noticed the ComGuard commander’s surprise “yes, we know all about the base and if we have to we will start looking for it however we would prefer a negotiation for the ceasing of hostilities between the Nova Cats and ComStar.â€
“We will need to leave the system to get within communications range of a ComStar base.â€
“No need, we have on-board HPGs on our vessels. Give us communication frequencies and locations of receivers and we will put you in communication.â€
“Those are classified†another voice said.
“Someone from your vessel is welcome aboard our vessel†Bavros said calling their bluff, the ComStar vessels were not getting out of here without paying the Nova Cats something in return, within an hour a ComGuard officer was aboard the Nova Cat WarShip.
Main Briefing room, Main Gravity Deck
CSWS Invisible Truth (Cameron-class Battle-cruiser)
New Avalon System, Federated Suns
20th December 3058
When he had come to the New Avalon system to talk to Victor Steiner-Davion, as commander of the new Star League Defence Force, Anastasius Focht had thought that he would be able to concentrate on operations against Clan Smoke Jaguar, instead the ComStar Flagship Invisible Truth had received word from ComGuard units in the Periphery and things had changed.
Focht sat in the Invisible Truth’s largest briefing room looking at what was a nightmarish scenario a Clan, the Nova Cats, had cornered two ComStar vessels in the periphery and was holding them ransom. Although Focht knew it could be worse, the Clanners could have destroyed the vessel outright. The Nova Cats were an unknown, none of their forces had been deployed in the Inner Sphere although Focht had encountered their Khans on the Wolf Flagship, the Dire Wolf, in 3050. Then Khans Severn Lervoux and Lucian Carns had been two of the quietest leaders of the Clans abstaining from many votes but opposing the Smoke Jaguars at ever opportunity. Looking through the report it placed eight Nova Cat capital ships just beyond the Draconis Combine periphery and less than two jumps from Columbia Base, ComStar’s deep space base and the base of all ComStar Explorer Corps operations.
The Invisible Truth was linked to the ComStar HPG network of the Federated Suns which in turn was linked to the Draconis Combine’s network and the Columbus Base as well as four other ComGuard WarShips, it was costing billions to maintain the link but it allowed Focht and Columbus base commander Precentor Padraig O’Bhaoil to speak in person. “What is your thoughts on the Nova Cat problem?â€
“The commander of the Deathblow couldn’t give us details on the exact make up of the Nova Cat force but I would guess that there are at least two major vessels and several cargo vessels.†Padraig O’Bhaoil said, he was a seasoned Explorer Officer but he was not a naval officer, a WarShip Commander and Anastasius didn’t want another opinion.
“Precentor, we are planning operations against the Smoke Jaguars, the last thing we need is trouble with another Clan. The Nova Cats are looking for an exit from hostilities, do you think we can come to a compromise with them?â€
“Maybe, it depends on what they bring to the table… all I would be looking for is safe return of the Deathblow and the Rosslare and their crews, they are my responsibility, they are Explorer Corps.â€
“I understand Precentor, however if we need to open a dialogue with the Cats, we cannot afford another Clan invading the Inner Sphere, not now.â€
“Yes, Precentor Martial, I shall take the Avenging Sword and enter the system, a single WarShip should not threaten the Nova Cats and show that ComStar can compete on an equal level with the Clans if necessary.†O’Bhaoil said, the Avenging Sword was an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser and formerly a Star League vessel, hopefully the Clans would respect that..
“Good Luck Precentor†Anastasius said before the link died, now all he could do was wait and pray the Nova Cats did not turn hostile, if they did this could cost the ComGuards and the Explorer Corps a lot in personnel and resources.
Command Bridge
Fairview (Avatar-class Cruiser)
Draconis Combine Periphery near Columbus Base
22nd December 3058
Standing on the bridge of the Fairview Star Admiral Fredrick Bavros watched as an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser entered the system painted in ComStar colours, a plain white. “Which vessel is that?†Fredrick asked, the Aegis was an old class but so was the Avatar, both the Nova Cat and ComStar vessels had served previous masters under the Star League Defence Force flag, the Fairview still held that name and Fredrick wondered what vessel the ComGuards had dragged up for this little meeting.
“It is the SLS Pride of New Earth†the sensor operator said, ever WarShip had their telltale signs that gave them away to other WarShips, especially ships that had been around in the deep for a long period.
“Hail them under that name, weapons if they turn a weapon towards us they are dead, Quiaff?†Fredrick said quietly, the weapons officer nodded “copy to both other cruisers, this order includes the Essex and that other vessel.â€
“Sir, they have answered and are sending over a shuttle to negotiate.â€
“What have the Stavag ComGuard’s called her?â€
“The Avenging Sword, sirâ€
“The Avenging Sword… inform their shuttle to dock at airlock sixteen have an Elemental point meet them there and escort them to Hall Four. Station the rest of the Elementals in adjacent corridors.†Bavros said quietly, he had heard of the Inner Sphere’s use and embracing of back stabbing tactics and dishonourable bombings as far as he knew ComStar had never resorted to such tactics but one could never be so sure.
An hour later the shuttle had docked and the Fairview, the ComStar delegation was escorted through the Nova Cat WarShip into an expansive briefing room inside the Fairview’s main gravity deck. Fredrick entered through an auxiliary entrance other than the Elementals stationed at each entrance he was the only Nova Cat in the room. Sitting at the table Fredrick looked over at the three members of the ComStar delegation, two women and a man one of the women wore a Draconis Combine uniform the other plain ComStar togs with a Free Rasalhague Republic dragon on the cuff. “Welcome aboard the Fairview, I am Star Admiral Fredrick Bavros, commander of this flotilla.†He said from his end of the table, he made no attempt to approach the ComStar personnel.
“I am Precentor Padraig O’Bhaoil, commander of ComStar’s Columbus Base and of the Periphery Operations of the Explorer Corps.†The male ComGuard officer said standing “those vessels out there are under my command, my responsibility. I have been authorised by Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht to negotiate with you.â€
“Good, let me be blunt and straight to the point Precentor, we have scanned the WarShips out there and we want the smaller vessel.â€
“The Essex?†Padraig asked, out of the ComGuard vessels the Essex was the shortest of the vessels if not the lightest, Padraig also prayed they didn‘t want the Faslane-class ship, ComStar only had six of the repair ships and with the Word of Blake in the Terran System the Faslanes would be invaluable.
“Neg, the other vessel, the construction ship.†Fredrick said smiling, he could see the faces of the ComGuard officers drop.
“Why would you want such a vessel?†the woman with Draconis Combine uniform said “surely the Clans have repair and construction vessels.â€
“We do, however the Nova Cats control none exclusively and none of the other Clans control mobile vessels such as the one out there†Fredrick said.
“What are you willing to part with for the rights to the Rosslare?†Padraig said regaining his voice.
“Something you may be interested in†Fredrick said sitting down “out there you probably noticed the three Avatar-class Cruisers with their weapons trained on your vessels.†Fredrick said rubbing it in just how badly he had the ComStar troops cornered “however what you may not have noticed was the Lola-III and the four Carrack-class Merchants, you see that is why we were out here in the first place searching for possible trading partners.†He lied “the Carrack Merchant is a modified Military Transport vessel, its naval weapons have been removed to make way for larger cargo bays and more anti-fighter defence weapons. We would be willing to trade an empty Carrack Merchant for your Rosslare.â€
“An empty under armoured transport for a construction vessel, are you attempting to insult us? I would rather led my fighters against you†the female ComGuard officer said.
“Then again, a WarShip for a repair ship is a good way to start the negotiations†Padraig said glancing at the female warrior.
“Of course my apologies†she immediately said getting Padraig’s meaning, any fight would be death for the ComGuard personnel.
“I also apologise for my companion’s reaction, however I must also refuse the offer. If I returned to ComStar without the Rosslare and with only a single Carrack-class vessel I would be stripped of my rank. ComStar only control six Faslane-class vessels as it is.â€
“The trade fleet is an important part of the Nova Cat Clan, especially considering the recent invasion of the Inner Sphere and the expansion of our trading routes.†Fredrick had to try and cover the real reason the Nova Cats were here.
“We have never seen Nova Cat vessels in the Inner Sphere†the female Combine officer said not a shock since no Nova Cat vessel had entered the Inner Sphere.
“Then with respects you have not looked hard enough, our vessels and our crews work closely with Clan Diamond Shark forces. If I remember correctly no Nova Cat vessel has engaged an Inner Sphere vessel however.†Fredrick said “I can offer you two Carrack Merchants empty of cargo and without their DropShips.†He said losing two Merchants would be a pain however if the ComGuards refused and went for a fight he could loose one of the newly acquired Avatars of even all the Merchants if the ComGuards attacked the non-combatants. Also in the long run it was better for the Nova Cats if they remained on good terms with the ComGuards.
“Two Carrack Merchants…†the Combine officer whispered Fredrick could see he was getting somewhere.
“Allow me to put it one other way we would like good terms with ComStar, however, we would also like the Rosslare. You will agree to these terms or in one hour the Merchants will leave and we will destroy the Avenging Sword and the Essex and take the Rosslare anyway we have to. Then because of the trouble you have caused we will look for Columbus Base and destroy it and every ComGuard there, then in the future we will destroy every ComStar vessel without restraint, you will be united like mercenary or pirate dezgra (dishonoured).â€
“May we contact the Precentor Martial? Losing a Faslane-class vessel will severely hamper Explorer Corps operations and I need the go ahead from someone more senior.â€
“Aff, you may contact anyone you wish via that terminal, the ships HPG will transmit your message. You may only send messages and we will check the message before sending to ensure you have not encoded it with a call for reinforcements.â€
“Agreeable†Padraig said, a call for help could be sent in many ways and if he thought the Precentor-Martial would send more ships he would have used the Avenging Sword’s own HPG, vessels with the Merchant‘s cargo capacities could be useful. Following four hours and over two dozen messages back and fore between the Fairview and Precentor-Martial Focht the decision was made and the ComGuards began emptying the Rosslare of extra cargo and the Nova Cats began emptying both Carrack Merchants before the exchange.
-
Command Centre, Fox’s Den
New Avalon, Davion Mountains
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th December 3058
It was Christmas Day and even in the thirty-first Century, in a time of constant war, people still celebrated Christmas. Victor Steiner-Davion was normally enjoying sometime off on Christmas Day, especially when the Federated Suns was not at War. However, today for a couple of hours it would be business as usual, he had a job that needed done and of all the officers under his command Victor had found the perfect man and the perfect unit for the job.
Captain Ross McKinnon, of the Seventh Crucis Lancers and commander of the Fox’s Teeth, entered the Fox’s Den command room his uniform was the Federated Commonwealth‘s blue with the Federated Suns Starburst and the Captains Bars replacing the Commonwealths fist-and-starburst and Hauptmann’s bars Victor made a note to ensure all regiments received Federated Suns Uniforms as soon as possible. His sister had destroyed the Commonwealth by seeding the Lyran half of the realm now all Federated Suns born units were back it was time they received proper uniforms.
Ross McKinnon’s unit the Fox’s Teeth were a special operations unit that, although attached to the Seventh Crucis Lancers RCT, were often called upon to undertake particularly dangerous missions on their own away from the Seventh Crucis Lancers. This would be one such mission and Victor hated that it had to be handed out today, of all days. The RCT or regimental combat team was the centre of almost every Federated Suns unit with one Mech Regiment, four armour regiments and six infantry regiments as well as aerospace fighter support. Throughout the Inner Sphere the RCT had been copied by the other Succession States in one way or another but no nation combined so much firepower together than the Federated Suns does. During the FedCom Alliance the Lyran-half of the Commonwealth introduced RCTs as well however it never gained as much respect in the Lyran realm as it has in the Davion realm.
“Captain, welcome back to New Avalon. I’m sorry I have you in here on Christmas.â€
“It’s fine sire, all the family are on New Avalon. I promised that I would drop in on them before I leave if it is possible.â€
“I’m sure it will Captain, you shouldn‘t be required to leave for a couple of days at the earliest.†Victor said he noticed that McKinnon although pleased that he would not have to leave straight away was slightly uncomfortable with the new rank, up until recently it had been Hauptmann McKinnon. “Captain, the Tortuga Dominions has been very quiet recently. According to intelligence analysts too quiet.â€
“Fuchida’s Fusiliers, could have just sealed their borders again.†McKinnon suggested using the Tortuga Fusiliers original designation. Fuchida’s Fusiliers had originally been a mercenary command under Federated Commonwealth contract however when the Clans had arrived the Fusiliers had turned their backs on the contract, raided a FedCom Supply Depot and disappeared into the Periphery. Once inside the Tortuga Dominions they had sealed the Dominions for an entire year while they imposed their own rule on the tiny bandit kingdom becoming the Tortuga Fusiliers, any warrior of this unit captured was tried as a mercenary who had broken their contract first then as a pirate as well by the Federated Suns.
“Possibly however none of our spies have reported in and none of our agents in other pirate bands have reported anything about the Fusiliers at all.â€
“The Fusiliers counter-intelligence can’t be good enough to get all our agents.†McKinnon said realising where Victor was going with this, another nation could have taken the Dominions over and could use it as a base against the Federated Suns lightly protected belly. “What would you like me to do?â€
“Your company is being outfitted with the best equipment we can field, including a couple of experimental weapons and we have been able to capture a pirate Union-class DropShip for transport. Your job will be to enter the Tortuga Prime system, land and attempt to contact our agents on the ground in Raider‘s Roost. Failing that you are to gain all the Intel you can on the goings on Tortuga and then get back out and report in. To assist you I will be sending three squads of Rabid Fox troopers with Infiltrator Battle Armour.†Victor said McKinnon nodded, they would be very helpful the Rabid Fox were the Federated Suns most accomplished special forces troops around, and were amongst the most elite in the entire Inner Sphere, and the Infiltrator Battle Armour was the Federated Suns newest Battle Armour with built-in stealth characteristics, the Clans Battle Armour was far more advanced than the Inner Sphere‘s however they shunned stealth technology giving the Inner Sphere some room to work and build their own effective Battle Armour forces. The Infiltrator Mk I was a First Generation Battle Armour suit and the scientists at NAIS predicted it would take the Inner Sphere ten to fifteen years before they had suits that were nearly as effective as their clan counterparts.
“Understood, when do we leave?â€
“Can’t wait to go, Captain?†Victor said teasing he noticed the Captain begin to back out however he stopped, he would leave now if Victor ordered it. “You leave in four days time, go spend Christmas with your family Ross, the Federated Suns will call you when you are needed.†Victor said, Ross McKinnon smiled then snapped to an salute which Victor matched, the Captain turned and marched out of the Fox’s Den. Alone except for a couple of operators Victor looked briefly at the maps then decided he too would enjoy Christmas. Upstairs his younger sister Yvonne and younger brother Arthur as well as more than fifty other relatives were waiting for their First Prince, he would not leave them waiting any longer.
Gwithian Base
Star Adder controlled Deep Periphery
26th December 3058
The transition between Star Adder and Stone Rhino troops inside the Star Adder controlled Periphery was going well. On Gwithian a small agricultural colony controlled and used as a R&R point for combat troops and a cargo way point for Clan traders. The colonists of Gwithian were a peaceful bunch and did not bother the Clansmen one bit the Twenty-third Assault Cluster of Clan Stone Rhino were taking over from the Twenty-ninth Battle Cluster of Clan Star Adder, the last Star Adder Broadsword-class DropShip was just taking-off and Star Colonel Malik watched the aerodyne DropShip take off from his Gargoyle’s cockpit. Turning away from the landing zone Malik walked his eighty ton OmniMech along the main street of the colony moving back to the colony base, even though it was a Garrison unit he enjoyed piloting a Front-Line machine, the Gargoyle was the same Mech he had taken from the Smoke Jaguar Clan when he left to join the Khan Perez and the Stone Rhinos.
Walking the Mech down the street Malik noticed something moving and turned left all that moved was a pair of civilian vans and a twenty ton APC neither was big enough to get his attention. “Malik to base, anything to report?â€
“Nope the Star Adders cleared this place out quite thoroughly, plenty of room for our equipment and plenty more besides.†Someone at the base said over the comm. obviously they were not thinking about the same things as Malik.
“On the sensors Talia†Malik said scanning right something was going on, moving forwards he noticed confirmed blips on the sensors “Talia, this is Malik, I have two incoming bogies. Do we have any troops in the field?â€
“Aff, two conventional infantry points are in the colony market.†Talia said after a moments notice “we also have a pair of APCs moving around, one should be near your location.†She said Malik nodded he had seen the APC moments before.
“I’m looking for something bigger than that†Malik said “I have two incoming bogies, no confirmed ID, I think they are Mechs any support available?†Suddenly without warning a PPC blast slammed into his Gargoyle’s upper right torso followed by a large pulse laser blast which cut into the same area of the assault Mech’s torso. “Base I am under attack, unknown assailants using Mech-grade weaponry†he said accelerating forward the Gargoyle was fast for an assault Mech capable of reaching a top speed in excess of eighty kilometres per hour. Charging forward he noticed an Inner Sphere built Panther and a Clan Vapour Eagle “I have a pair of enemy Mechs, one Panther one Vapour Eagle.†Malik said opening fire with both LB-class Autocannons one on each target, using cluster munitions the autocannons were like large Mech-sized shotguns and both volleys hit the enemy Mechs, the shots blasting over the Mechs causing little but widespread damage. The Panther cut right and the Vapour Eagle went left forcing Malik to choose which target to chase choosing the heavier Clan-built Vapour Eagle he ignored the retreating Panther.
The Vapour Eagle was travelling at just over sixty kilometres per hour a leisurely walk, for that machine was, it did however force Malik’s Gargoyle into a brisk run just to keep up with the target. Triggering both Autocannons again at long range he was rewarded with a hit against the Mech’s left leg, that turned the Mech around and the enemy Mech charged forward pulse lasers lashed out burning and melting armour plating all down the Gargoyle’s legs Malik’s Mech stumbled forward but maintained its feet. The Vapour Eagle charged forward accelerating over ninety kilometres per hour “oh no you don’t, Stavag, you‘re not getting away that easy.†Malik said his normal refined Clan speech stained with his use of contractions. Firing the Autocannon ammo selection down to solid shot he opened fire with both cannons again, this time the solid shells slammed into the Vapour Eagle’s chest tearing armour plate the fifty-five ton machine continued forward pulse lasers flashing again and again, as the Mech closed the other arm raised and the heavy machine guns armed there fired hundreds of machine gun rounds slammed into the Gargoyle’s armour causing more damage.
Malik’s response was to fire both autocannons and both six-tube SRM launchers fired, the autocannons struck first one tore into the torso armour again exposing internal structure while the other tore at the left arm, the elbow actuator of the arm exploded in a flash disabling the arm locking it in position the weapons now uselessly pointing to the ground, the other autocannon smashed into the head of the Vapour Eagle the medium Mech stumbled as the pilot was thrown around in the cockpit, just as the Mech began to regain its balance the twelve missiles slammed into the Mech, exploding all over the Mech’s body the force of the hit dropped the Vapour Eagle to a ground. Malik wasted no time in firing both autocannons into the Mech several more times making sure it wouldn’t be getting back up again “respond… I repeat Star Colonel this is base we have two Mechs with Battle Armour en-route they will be with you in one minute. Please respondâ€
“Base I hear you, situation under control one Mech down one Mech retreating, have the teams…†just then the Gargoyle was hit from behind by a PPC blast, normally the armour there could sustain a hit from an Inner Sphere PPC, the type normally found on a Panther, however this was not a normal PPC. The blast ripped into the back of the Mech vaporising the armour there and chewing into the internal structure and equipment at the heat of the assault OmniMech. Already managing a damaged Mech and unprepared for an attack from behind Malik was thrown forward smashing into the ground armour smashed and Malik was thrown into his instrument panels his nose broken by the impact, with the assault Mech sprawled over the ground Malik attempted to right the machine pushing the arms forward to lift the eighty ton machine up however just as it began to regain it feet another PPC blast slammed into the Mech’s back and the Gargoyle was thrown down again. Malik noticed on the sensors the enemy Mech was close so he rolled the Gargoyle onto its back he would try and shoot the Panther from a prone position, the Panther was standing less than thirty feet away it fired its secondary weapons, a four-tube SRM pack. These missiles normally wouldn’t cause heavy damage however just before they hit they exploded covering the Gargoyle with napalm jelly, the damaged Gargoyle moaned under the massive increase in temperature and Marik had to fight the heat none of the Mech’s weapons caused a lot of heat but nevertheless this was not pleasant.
Marik triggered both autocannons and SRM launchers however he couldn’t tell if anything had hit, the Mech’s sensors knocked out by the massive sudden heat increase. “MechWarrior, I will not leave you to burn that is not a MechWarrior‘s death, however it is time for your to die†the Panther pilot said over the comm. Moments before the Panther’s foot smashed through the cockpit crushing Malik under it’s thirty ton mass, by the time the other Stone Rhino reinforcements arrived there was nothing left but a burning headless Gargoyle and a wrecked Vapour Eagle. Further examination of the destroyed Vapour Eagle however discovered a Clan Burrock insignia, the Stone Rhino’s would have their vengeance and they now had a new target.
Observation Lounge, Olympus-class Recharge Station
Varnay System, Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
31st December 3058
Although uninhabited this system could prove to be the most important of the Newly formed Nova Cat’s Den, with the recovered and refurbished Recharge Station the system had unveiled its secrets and they were many. Standing in the Recharge Station’s primary gravity deck Khan Santin West looked out into space at the vessels that had just arrived, it was not what he had expected instead of three cruisers, a destroyer and four merchant ships they had only two merchant ships and a new unknown vessel. Looking at the vessel Khan West could see a ComStar insignia on the fore-port flank of the vessel, whatever this was the flotilla commander had better have an explanation. Just then Star Admiral Fredrick Bavros entered the room “Star Admiral, I hope you have a good explanation why we are missing two vessels and why a ComStar vessel is in our space.â€
“Khan West, we encountered this vessel in the periphery with an escort vessel. When we realised what it was I saw its potential worth to our Clan and offered ComStar a chance to escape with their lives.â€
“ComStar stopped the invasion of the Inner Sphere by the Crusader Clans, they are a mortal enemy to all Clansmen. What is this vessel and why did you see its potential?†The Khan asked Fredrick knew that he had to be careful now, his life depended on it.
“It is a construction and repair ship, ComStar call them Faslane-class Yard-ships, they can accommodate over one hundred thousand tons of cargo and more importantly they have a two million ton capacity repair facility. I thought that since we have a new home and new vessels it would be prudent for us to have repair facilities as well.†Fredrick said he noticed the Khan’s mood change and he decided to continue “the ComGuards called on a more senior member of their order who negotiated for two of our Merchant Carracks in exchange he gave us the Rosslare and we parted ways. My Khan†Fredrick said “the ComStar Officials were from Columbus Base.†West spun to look at him, the Nova Cat Watch had delivered a report on a possible ComStar vessel in the deep, to have Columbus confirmed was possibly worth more than the new addition.
“The loss of two Merchants is a loss as is ComStar’s knowledge of our Clan in the deep, however, with the gained valuable intelligence and the new vessel. It seems you have done well by our Clan today Star Admiral. I will not be calling you out for a Trial of Grievance, instead I have a new job for you. Star Admiral, I want you to take command of this station and stewardship of the Varnay system.â€
“The Varnay system?†Bavros asked he knew of no system with that name.
“This is the Varnay system, Star Admiral.†Khan West said, the name Varnay was vaguely familiar to Fredrick but it was not a name from Nova Cat of even from general Clan history or the Exodus before. “I see you are struggling with the name we have given the system, understandable, you see Star Admiral when you were away we discovered something about this system about a week ago.†Khan West announced walking over to the windows. “Between the seventh and eight worlds of this system there is an asteroid field, I sent out a DropShip to survey the field for mining viability. When conducting their survey the team discovered a WarShip hidden in the field.†Bavros was shocked to have a non-Nova Cat WarShip that close to the Nova Cat’s Den was indeed worrying. “Initially the team retreated in-case they were spotted, however, when the Transcendent Star arrived to deal with this threat we found that the WarShip had been abandoned centuries ago, its engines and weapons are all off-line and there are several hull breaches.â€
“So it is a wreck, it was destroyed by Transcendent Star, Quiaff?†Bavros asked Transcendent Star was Star Admiral Jan Jorgensson’s personal command it had six WarShips including the Thunderbolt, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser and three Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, that kind of firepower could ruin anyone’s day and could easily deal with a wreck.
“Neg†Khan West “they looked over the wreck and reported their findings, it took us a couple of days however we found out where it was from. It is originally a Federated Suns vessel and the former command ship of David Varnay†Bavros recognised the name, before the first Star League had been formed the Varnay family had attempted to wrest control of the Federated Suns from the Davion family. This had led to a bloody civil war the Varnay family had been defeated and their ships destroyed, or so everyone had thought. “The ship was once the Thunderchild.†Bavros shook his head what a find, the Nova Cats truly were on a path to glory, with the three new cruisers and the Thunderchild the Nova Cat Clan was destined for greatness. “I want the Thunderchild, recovered and made space worthy, make it airtight and get its engines online. Leave the weapons we will sort that later, at the same time as recovery efforts on the Thunderchild, I want to begin the refurbishment of one of the cruisers out there, there should be space and all the parts we should need are on the Carrack Merchants, this station and assuming you did not give the ComGuards full Carracks the Rosslare should have full cargo bays as well.â€
“They are bursting at the seems with cargo my Khan, the Carrack‘s carry significantly more cargo so there is cargo in the corridors of all the ships out there, we made do with what we had available.â€
“Good, then you have plenty to keep you busy.†Khan West said leaving the observation lounge, five minutes later the small Scout-class JumpShip docked with the station undocked then jumped away returning to the Nova Cat capital system from there he would travel back to the Homeworlds, so far as Nova Cat Khan he had yet to meet any of the other Khans and he had to supervise the evacuation of more Nova Cats from the Homeworlds, also there was the Oathmaster, Biccon Winters, who had yet to join the Clan in the Nova Cat‘s Den.
Ending 3058, hope you enjoyed the full version
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Into the next year
3059
Command Room
Columbus Base, Deep Periphery
3rd January 3059
The tracker aboard the Rosslare had finally began it transmissions, the vessel’s jump-drive had obviously been offline for a couple of days before the Nova Cat’s had taken it to the final destination. Precentor Padraig O’Bhaoil had expected to be able to give the Precentor-Martial information on a Nova Cat world in the Clan Homeworlds, instead they had the location of a system in the deep periphery near the Tortuga Dominions!
What were the Nova Cats doing there, so close to a bandit kingdom and below the Tukayyid Truce line? Transmitting the data Padraig imagined that the Precentor-Martial would have even more trouble believing the data than Padraig had, and he was the one who supervised the transmitter’s installation and programming the technology didn’t lie. The Nova Cats were in the Tortuga Dominions, ready to strike the backs of the Federated Suns, the Inner Sphere had not faced such a grave threat since the initial Clan Invasion.
Davion Royal Retreat
New Avalon, Davion Mountains
Crucis March, Federated Suns
5th January 3059
A day before the Righteous Fury, a ComStar registered Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, had arrived in the New Avalon system via a pirate point and a Fortress-class Assault Ship had begun burning towards the planet. The ComStar WarShip broadcast that Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht was on the DropShip and he desperately required to speak to Commanding-General Victor Steiner-Davion, the fact they had called for Victor as Commanding-General made it clear that it was a matter for the Star League and not just the Federated Suns, something that would effect the entire Inner Sphere in time or right now when only time would tell.
Two Davion Avenger-class Assault DropShips had met the Fortress just outside New Avalon’s gravity well and they had escorted the ComStar vessel to a secluded landing zone in the Davion Mountains. From there a heavily armed convoy escorted by elements of the Elite First Davion Royal Guards Regimental Combat Team (RCT) had escorted Focht and his aides to a small cottage situated in a small clearing in the mountains. A Federated Suns RCT was one of the most effective formations in the entire Inner Sphere it combined, one Mech Regiment, up to twelve conventional regiments and aerospace support all permanently assigned together to form an effective combined-arms assault force capable of taking on a variety of different tasks. The First Davion was one of the most Elite in the entire Federated Suns and was the most prestigious as it was responsible for the defence of the Davion Royal Palace, the Fox’s Den and New Avalon on a near permanent basis.
Victor sat with several members of the Federated Suns High Command on the porch even though they were miles from the Davion High Command‘s normal seat of power deep within the Fox‘s Den under the Davion Mountain Range they could still determine every move the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns (AFFS) made from here, this innocent looking cabin. All the Federated Suns officials moved off when Focht approached “Precentor-Martial, ComStar has been warned about entering the New Avalon system in a WarShip, we may not field vessels of such mass or firepower however we have weapons capable of brining them down.†Victor said raising from his chair and walking to meet Focht several metres from the cottage.
“My apologies Victor, however, ComStar has come into worrying information that you need to be made aware of immediately.†Focht said Victor had met Focht several times and as a strategist and a leader of combat troops he respected him so he ignored the Precentor-Martial’s use of Victor’s first name, technically Focht should have used one of Victor’s titles. There was also some other ties between Focht and Victor however those were not for public discussion, perhaps in their memoirs when the other was dead.
“What information?†Victor asked, he knew Focht would not come here, in such grand fashion, without good reason.
“We believe that one or more Clans have breached the Tukayyid Truce line and are ready to strike deeper into the Inner Sphere than anyone could have ever imagined.â€
“Where are they? Have they breached the Lyran, Rasalhague or Combine borders?†Victor asked naming the three nations with Clan borders.
“None of those, or any other state.†Victor gave Focht a confused/explain yourself look. “In mid-December Clan Nova Cat cornered two ComGuard vessels in the periphery, however, they did not strike. Instead the Nova Cat commander negotiated a trade for one of the ComStar vessels for two of their merchant vessels, he said the Nova Cats wished not to make enemies of the Inner Sphere.â€
“This is a good thing, at least some of the Clans are willing to negotiate and work with us instead of attempting to destroy us outright.†Victor said, at least ComStar had met such people he had not been so lucky.
“True we thought the same, however, we bugged the vessel we traded with the Clansmen.†Victor’s face darkened ComStar’s action could endanger the peace they had brokered “we thought it could led us to another Clan Homeworld. The results were not promising however.â€
“Where did the vessel turn up?â€
“A jump, perhaps two, outside the Tortuga Dominions.â€
“Tortuga†Victor whispered thinking of the Fox’s Teeth company en route to that very bandit kingdom.
“Yes, you can now understand our rush to enter the New Avalon system†Victor nodded “if the Nova Cat force there is a recon force for the rest of the clan then we have nothing to worry about however if they are an assault, or invasion force your nation could be in grave danger. Also if the Nova Cats are this far around the Inner Sphere it could mean that there are Clan colonies in the deep Rimward Periphery that we know nothing about.â€
“Could be, however, we have no concrete information Precentor-Martial. The Star League Council has planned to move against the Smoke Jaguars and we know where their Homeworld is. I have already deployed a unit to Tortuga.†It was Focht’s turn to look confused “Tortuga has been quiet we wanted to know what was going on. They should arrive on Tortuga posing as a Pirate force wanting to join the Fusiliers in a couple of days, perhaps a week. For now we will continue to prepare against the Smoke Jaguars, however I will move certain forces to protect our Periphery borders as well. If the Nova Cats make their move against us then we will respond but for now they have struck no Inner Sphere world, harmed no Star League citizens the Smoke Jaguars annihilated an entire city from orbit, they are a greater threat. Please keep the information on the Nova Cats a closely guarded secret, I do not want to panic the Federated Suns population with such information.â€
“Of course, we will all monitor the situation and pray the Nova Cats do not share their brethren’s wishes to see us all destroyed.†Focht had spent time with the Clans before the Battle of Tukayyid, he knew that not all the Clans shared the so-called Crusader bent of the Invading Clans hopefully the quiet Nova Cat Clan was not one of the more aggressive Clans.
Victor and Focht spoke for more than an hour then the ComStar Precentor-Martial left returning to the Righteous Fury before that vessel left the New Avalon system. Victor returned to his High Command meeting, just before they broke up he turned to his cousin Marshal Jackson Davion “Jackson, I would like you to travel to Hadrian’s Command and have them step up the reactivation process on their charges.â€
“Why what has happened?†Jackson asked, normally Victor would not explain such an extreme action but, Jackson was family so he answered.
“There is a Clan in the Periphery near Tortuga, we could need a little extra firepower, in the next couple of months, take all the resources you need just get the job done Marshal.â€
“Of course, sire†within an hour Jackson had contacted the Department of Military Intelligence (DMI), the same command of the Rabid Fox, and within two hours he was aboard a MI3 (Electronic Information Gathering) DropShip on his way to the Federated Suns most secret base in the entire Federated Suns.
Hall of the Khans
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
8th January 3059
In everyone’s lives there were firsts some you enjoyed and they enhanced your lives, others could spell the end of your life if they went wrong. Standing up in front of his fellow Khans Thomas Perez looked around the room, he had faced them before however he had been a Star Colonel then and now he was a Khan, a peer, at least that was the theory. The fellow Khans looked back at him judging his ever movement and rating every word. “My fellow Khans, on 26th December on the occupied Periphery Colony of Gwithian Stone Rhino forces took over stewardship of this world, working under a contract with Clan Star Adder…â€
“Khan Perez, I know you are knew at this but the Grand Council does not have to be called every time your Clan makes a deal with another.†ilKhan Lincoln Osis said, there was a couple of discreet laughing in the room mostly from the Smoke Jaguar saKhan. The Smoke Jaguars would do everything to discredit the Stone Rhinos.
“ilKhan, I was not bringing this contract to your attention or any of the other Khans as I was confident that your Watch and the other Clan’s Watch Agencies knew this already, I was just setting the scene for the facts.†Thomas said now there was a little more laughter this time from saKhan Karl Devalis of the Nova Cats and the Wolf Khan Vlad Ward, Thomas made a note that once again the Khan of the Nova Cat Clan was not present. “As I was saying Clan Star Adder vacated Gwithian the Stone Rhinos moved to secure the planet. Almost immediately the Twenty-eighth’s Assault Cluster’s commander Star Colonel was assaulted by two Mechs and killed, these Mechs made no official Batchall or challenge.â€
“It is a dangerous area of space, Jade Falcon garrison forces are attacked on a regular basis, these people have no respect for our superior warriors, technology or our ways of combat.†Khan Marthe Pryde, leader of Clan Jade Falcon, said her Clan controlled a sizable portion of the Clan occupied areas of the Inner Sphere.
“We are well aware of the lawlessness of the region, Khan Jade Falcon, however these Mechs are the reason for my bringing this to your attention. If I may direct you to the plasma screen†Perez said as a screen lifted up from inside the Stone Rhino desk, the building may be traditional but the technology used by the Khans was state-of-the-art. The screen split into two sections one showed a running Mech which any warrior in the room could identify as an Inner Sphere Panther, the Mech looked in good condition and was unmarked other than some light damage on the torso and upper left leg. The other half of the screen was taken up with a Vapour Eagle, this Mech was similarly in good condition. “These are the Mechs that assaulted and killed our officer.†Perez noticed saKhan Brandon Howell of Clan Smoke Jaguar raise and whisper something in the ilKhan’s ear, the ilKhan looked at the saKhan for a moment then addressed the Khans.
“I have just been informed that these Mechs assaulted a Smoke Jaguar research and development station in mid-November of last year.â€
“Why was this council not informed?†Khan Cassius N’Buta asked, the ilKhan stared angrily at Howell for a moment then turned back to the Khans.
“These forces destroyed the base and took everything, we assumed it was the Dark Caste and have been attempting to track down the culprits, we would have informed this council of their existence then.â€
“We were able to destroy the Vapour Eagle.â€
“Good for you, shame you could not bring down the Inner Sphere Panther too.†Khan Marthe Pryde said angrily.
“That Mech has been modified, it was faster than a standard Panther and carries heavier weaponry. However this is no the gem of the information we received.†Perez said smiling looking at the Clan Burrock Khans “when we analysed the Vapour Eagle’s wreckage we found Clan Burrock insignia on the Mech’s armour and inside the Mech’s cockpit. I would like an explanation.â€
“This Mech was obviously stolen from our Clan, we would never have dealings with the Dark Caste.†the Burrock Khan said, there was a murmuring around the room “and if you make any such allegations Khan Stone Rhino, you will face me in a Trial of Grievance.â€
“I have no evidence, I only produced this to find out if such a Mech was missing or if you had seen these units before.â€
“We have not, and I have no available knowledge of a missing Vapour Eagle, if we were to recess for a few hours I could find this information.â€
“Hardly a reason to involve us all, Khan Burrock you will bring this information to Clan Stone Rhino Khan, if this is all I have a journey to the Inner Sphere to look forward to and will take my leave.†Khan Vlad Ward said, the Khans of the Invading Clans spent most of their times travelling between the Homeworlds and the Inner Sphere, a six month trip each way.
“It is this council is over, safe journey to the Inner Sphere Khan Ward†Kael Pershaw the council Loremaster said, the Khans began shuffling out. Khan Peres smiled, the presentation meeting had not gone too badly.
Khan Thomas Perez Office
Clan Stone Rhino Hall, Strana Mechty
Clan Homeworlds, Kerensky Cluster
11th January 3059
Thomas Perez had waited for three days for information from Clan Burrock but nothing had arrived, maybe the Burrocks thought the Stone Rhinos were too small to be recognised, if they tried this with the Wolves or Jade Falcons they would find themselves facing a Trial of Grievance, or Absorption by the larger Clan. Now Perez was forced to make a choice martial his forces against the Burrocks and risk stretching his Clan too thin, or ignore the Burrock threat and show the Clans the Stone Rhinos were just playing at being Clan warriors. SaKhan Kirsten Kotare entered the room silently and sat opposite him, she had been a member of the Jaguars once like him and had been one of the first to flow to his banner, however Kirsten was also a Crusader and often advocated striking the Inner Sphere first and the other Clans a far second. “The Burrocks still have not answered our calls for information on the Dark Caste attacks.â€
“Did you expect them too? I said we should challenge them when they did not answer straight away, but you wavered…â€
“Are you challenging me Kirsten?†Thomas asked immediately recognising her tone and the direction the conversation was going.
“Neg, however I believe that perhaps we should take another route in dealing with the Burrock threat.â€
“What type of other route is there? We ignore them or we call them out for a trial.â€
“Or we use the Watch…†She said
“We have no Watch.â€
“Not true, my Khan†Kirsten said quietly “two months ago I and Loremaster Warren Corbett discussed the fact we had not formed a Watch and we chose to designate a Cluster as a Watch unit, the Twelfth Black Lancer Cluster.â€
“I did wonder why the unit made such a name change, and why they did so when you were there. Why was I not informed Kirsten Kotare?â€
“It was a minor change in designation, the Cluster’s duties have not changed thus far, although we have plans to give them further training we have not yet begun.â€
“Then why would we use them, if they are untrained in Watch matters then they will not be much use.â€
“I was thinking of using them as a regular unit with a surprise in the tail.â€
“Explainâ€
“The Star Adders I believe have a small trading outpost on Tathis, we ask them if we can drop the unit onto Tathis with one of their trading expeditions.â€
“The Star Adders will want something in return…â€
“We offer them a quarter of the Tathis Mech production for the next year, they will settle for a third, we can afford to loose that much equipment.â€
“True, and another production plant would be helpful especially with the Stone Rhino program almost ready for production.â€
“Almost ready?†Kirsten asked surprised Project Stone Rhino had only been started following the Stone Rhino’s independence from the Smoke Jaguars, the program aimed to deliver a totem Mech for their Clan, to give their warriors something to be proud about and rally behind, within a year.
“Aff, the designers say that the tests have gone well and they are ready for the prototype stage. Perhaps the Dark Caste/Burrock attacks were meant to be.â€
“You are sounding more Nova Cat every day†Kirsten said raising “I will make arrangements for the Twelfth Black Lancer to move out.†She said before he could answer considering they were both former Smoke Jaguars being compared to one of the Smoke Jaguars main rivals was not a nice thing to say despite the Stone Rhino’s severing of the ties between the two Clans.
Burrock Controlled Territory
Mech Production Facility, Tathis
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Space
17th January 3059
The Star Adders had agreed to shuttle the Twelfth Black Lancer Cluster to Tathis with their next trading convoy which left a couple of days later. Six days later they had arrived on Tathis and the Stone Rhino’s were ready, saKhan Kirsten Kotare had decided that she would include her command star as part of the Cluster. Walking her one hundred ton Dire Wolf forward Kirsten watched as her Star line up on her left, glancing right she noticed Star Colonel Jessica and her command star and behind them there were two more trinaries of Clan Stone Rhino’s troops.
“Clan Star Adder force this is Star Colonel Drake of Clan Burrock, please explain why you are in our territory.†A voice asked over the comm. as they approached, of course they were Star Adders Kirsten thought, why would the dezgra Burrocks think anything less. “Star Adders please respond… all forces we have three under strength Trinaries inbound on our western approaches, thought to be Star Adders prepare for hostilities.â€
“This is saKhan Kirsten Kotare of Clan Stone Rhino, we are here to declare a Trial of Possession for the BattleMech facility and the nearby enclave in response to Clan Burrock’s dealings with the Dark Caste and the dishonourable attack on the Gwithian Colony. My first bid for the Batchall is two Trinaries and two stars, all troops are rated as elite, this is my entire force and I am willing to send you are combat information, respond.†Kirsten said as the Burrocks began to assemble, they might as well know who their executioners were.
“saKhan Kotare, Clan Stone Rhino? What are you doing here? Why do you sully the Burrock name by linking us to the Dark Caste?â€
“I have no wish to talk Star Colonel Drake, I want your defending force or should we just count your entire force as a legitimate target?†Kirsten asked as the Stone Rhinos fanned out in a battle-line, they were all ready for a fight.
“My forces are three trinaries of Mechs and Battle Armour, two Stars of Combat Vehicles and a single star of conventional infantry. I am willing to transmit their codex information†Drake eventually said, a Warrior’s Codex was a record of his or her history as a warrior, they included every fight they had been in and the result of the battle as well as a sample of the warrior’s DNA and Bloodhouse.
“Transmit to my Mech.†Kirsten said slowing her Mech’s speed, auxiliary monitors were filled with information on the Burrock defenders, they were green to regular at best typical garrison troops. Kirsten opened a private comm. channel to Star Colonel Jessica giving her the data as well “Jessica, your bid including my Star?†She asked giving Jessica the right to decide which of her warriors would fight today.
“A single Trinary plus your Star and my own.†She said Kirsten looked at the data again and at the update Jessica had sent her.
“We bid a single Trinary plus two Stars.†Kirsten said activating her general comm. system. “I will send you an update on which warriors will fight.â€
“We bid away our conventional infantry and vehicles.†The Burrock commander said, it was traditional for Clan commanders to find the smallest amount of troops he or she could defend with against an opposing force, the smallest force brought the biggest honour however if they lost they were seen as reckless and dangerous to the Clan.
“I will deploy my Trinary as a Binary with both Stars remaining intact, overall two binaries of Stone Rhinos remain.†Kirsten said reviewing the data.
“We will deploy one of our Trinaries as a single Star and the other two at full strength.†Drake said, he was bidding away the most green rated troops of his command protecting them from the Stone Rhinos assault. The Burrocks still outnumbered the Stone Rhinos however Kirsten felt confident she could take them with the troops she had.
“What do you think Jessica?†Kirsten asked opening a comm. to the Star Colonel again.
“I would not want to deprive any more of my people of combat, the Burrocks have bid away their most green troops, assuming they fight using Zellbrigen it should be a fair fight.†The Star Colonel said Zellbrigen was the Clan traditional duelling rules of one-on-one combat, one MechWarrior against another in honourable combat, for Battle Armour five troopers of a point counted as one unit.
“Agreed†Kirsten said swapping back to general comm. “Done, Burrock Commander select a battlefield for this trial.â€
“You are standing on a good enough spot saKhan Kotare, we will meet you and assemble one kilometre from your present location.â€
“Agreed, Seyla†she said ending the Batchall.
“Seyla†Drake said in response. Kirsten and Jessica separated out the forces that would fight in the battle, those warriors not included in the Trial would stand ready, Clan Trial Rules allowed a commander to recall his last bid into battle if he was desperate for the victory in Kirsten’s case that would be another full star of warriors. The others would form a perimeter ensuring no-one interfered in combat.
The two Clans forces arranged opposite each other Kirsten stepped forward and opened the comm. “I saKhan Kirsten Kotare of Clan Stone Rhino declare this Trial of Possession for the Tathis BattleMech facility and the Clan Burrock enclave to the south-east. I bring two Binaries of troops to this battle.â€
“I Star Colonel Drake defend this facility, I bring two Trinaries and a single Binary of troops to this battle.â€
“Seyla†she said ending the Ritual of Battle.
“Seyla†Drake said then after a moments pause a ninety ton Supernova charged forward and Drake spoke again “saKhan Kirsten Kotare I declare a Circle of Equals with you, may no other enter.†As individual challenges and battle calls began to be called out across the battlefield Kirsten answered the Call and the two began to fight.
The Supernova was a second-line garrison BattleMech most often seen in the Clusters of Clan Nova Cat, its armament included six arm mounted Extended-Range Large Lasers giving it massive long range striking power. Unfortunately for the Supernova its heat sinks could not dispense that much heat and if the Supernova pilot fired all its weapons at once the assault Mech would overheat and be unable to fight for a short time, on the Battlefield even a short term of being unable to fight were deadly. Drake was not an idiot, only four of the six lasers lashed out at extreme range two struck Kirsten’s Dire Wolf, striking the left leg meting away nearly a ton-and-a half of armour. The Dire Wolf was the Clan’s biggest OmniMech and it carried a massive amount of firepower and armour, Kirsten was not worried about the hit. Instead she stopped her Dire Wolf moving and placed her OmniMech’s legs squarely on the ground, targeting the Supernova she opened fire with the Left Arm weapons pod twin Extended Range PPCs lashed out and tore into the Supernova’s right leg, the Supernova stopped for a moment, obviously Drake had not banked on Kirsten piloting a Dire Wolf using the uncommon B Weapons Configuration. As Drake’s Supernova began to move again Kirsten punched down on the second joystick trigger, four light Ultra-class Autocannons roared into life above Kirsten’s head, although the weapons did little damage individually they fired fast and together they could cause a lot of damage. The autocannon shells tore into the Supernova, Kirsten made sure her weapons all struck the exact same point as before tearing into the right leg ripping armour clear exposing the structure.
Drake returned fire with all six lasers, the damaged they dealt together was devastating, all six struck the Dire Wolf overloading systems all over the Mech, if Kirsten hadn’t been standing still the mighty assault Mech would have likely fallen under such an assault. Kirsten checked her systems, one of the yet unused left arm pulse lasers was damaged possibly destroyed but otherwise her Mech was still fully operational. Looking across the battlefield she could see the Supernova was not in such good shape, the Mech had overheated badly with the use of all six lasers, switching to Infer-red (IR) targeting mode she could see the Supernova burned white as it tried to fight back the heat. “Wrong move†Kirsten whispered, using the time she charged forward taking the Dire Wolf on a run, accelerating up to around fifty-four kilometres per hour, the Mechs to speed. Just as Drake began to regain control of his Mech she was in range for all her remaining weapons, Kirsten looked at the Supernova for a second then without another thought she triggered all her Dire Wolf’s weapons in a classic ‘Alpha Strike’.
The left arm paired PPCs and single pulse laser tore into the Supernova’s torso stripping the Mech of two tons of armour. The Ultra autocannons roared into life tearing armour all over the Burrock Mech as Kirsten ‘walked’ the autocannons over her target. Finally the only weapon Kirsten had not used roared into life a LB-X class autocannon in the right arm fired, Kirsten had selected solid shot for the oversized shotgun and the shot out the Dire Wolf striking the Supernova’s head, although head-shot strikes were frowned upon she had not meant to strike the Supernova’s head so Kirsten felt no remorse. The Supernova reeled under the hit but surprisingly it did not fall, instead Drake obviously knocked about by the attack maintained control of the ninety ton machine and kept it on its feet only retreating four of five steps in an effort to maintain balance. Kirsten cursed as she saw the Warriors’ impressive display and watched as her weapons cycled, the fastest weapons were the single pulse laser and the over shoulder autocannons which she hammered down again. As the weapons lashed out she noticed the Supernova lift off, the Supernova’s one real advantage over her Mech was its three powerful jump jets. The Supernova leapt ninety metres left just as Kirsten’s autocannons and pulse laser struck the place the Burrock Mech had been standing. “Stavag!†Kirsten screamed twisting her Mech’s torso trying to track the Supernova, as the Dire Wolf’s torso twisted the Supernova fired all six lasers one more time.
The blast of pure destructive power from the Supernova sent Kirsten’s Dire Wolf reeling, the entire left arm was separated from the Dire Wolf as the mighty OmniMech was sent spiralling to the ground, Kirsten slammed her nose against the control panel as the Dire Wolf hit the ground breaking her nose and covering her in blood, Kirsten screamed, not in pain but pure anger. Now it was a test of speed, could Kirsten pick her Mech up before the Supernova had cooled? Kirsten doubted it so instead she rolled the Mech onto its side crushing the right arm’s remaining armour but thankfully not damaging the autocannon there. Then with every ounce of fight and energy she had left the she slammed down on the Dire Wolf’s weapons triggers, all four Ultra autocannons and the single LB-X-type autocannon fired in unison and to Kirsten’s delight everything hit the location she had planned on hitting. Lying on its side the Dire Wolf’s weapons were in a direct line to the Supernova’s legs, the five autocannons tore into the already damaged right leg causing it to collapse. Even if the Supernova hadn’t been overheated the Burrock Mech would have fallen under such damage, but as such the assault Mech fell without control. Drake was unable to do anything as his Supernova’s head slammed into the ground crushing the cockpit as the weakened armour took ninety tons of Mech landing on it.
Kirsten picked her Mech up careful not to damaged the right arm autocannon as she used that arm to lever the Mech up, it was possible to pick a Mech up without using the arms but it was time consuming and in the heat of battle no warrior wanted to waste time or show weakness and a prone Mech was a sitting duck literally. Looking around she could see the battle was going well for the Stone Rhinos, over half of the Burrocks were already down. Searching she noticed the Stone Rhinos had incurred one casualty however, Star Colonel Jessica’s Mech sat on the ground its head a burning mess. Kirsten vowed on the death of the Stone Rhino Star Colonel that she would win today however just as she turned her damaged Dire Wolf around ready to challenge one of the Burrocks who had yet to fight an opponent a freak gauss slug from one of the other battles slammed into her cockpit beheading the Dire Wolf and consuming saKhan Kirsten Kotare death was instant and Kirsten had no time to react, just the way war went sometimes.
A less disciplined command may have broken at this point however the Twelfth Black Lancer Cluster showed why they had been selected by the deceased saKhan to be Watch warriors. Star Captain Lucian took command of the force, informed the Burrocks he was brining in saKhan Kotare’s last bid and the Stone Rhinos surged forward. Six hours later the Burrocks surrendered to the remaining Stone Rhinos, six warriors, the remains of the Burrock Garrison Cluster were taken by Star Captain Lucian as Isorla, spoils of war and the Stone Rhinos moved to secure their position and hold over the BattleMech Factory and the nearby Enclave.
Oathmaster Biccon Winters’ Sanctuary
Nova Cat Delta Command Base
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
21st January 3059
The Nova Cat Enclaves on Barcella were like ghost towns now that the majority of the Clans civilians had left Clan space. The Enclave on Barcella used to be the Clan’s Homeworld Capital, a hive of activity, now the only activity was Nova Cat Delta Galaxy security teams searching the enclave for stragglers and search teams marking up things the Nova Cats would be taking with them. Soon the Nova Cats would abandon Barcella as well, their new home beckoned them. Oathmaster Biccon Winters sat alone in her sanctuary on the top floor of the largest building in the command firebase, about six floors high, she often came here to meditate on the days goings on and wonder what the future entailed for her Clan. When the recent Trade Convoy had arrived the Merchants had brought her a correspondence from Khan Santin West, he wanted her to join the Clan in the Nova Cat’s Periphery holdings, although he would be returning to the Homeworlds soon he wanted her on the Nova Cats new Capital.
Biccon had decided soon after the Nova Cats began leaving the Homeworlds that she would not see the Nova Cat’s new home, and she had found a replacement. There was a knock on the door breaking the silence “Enter, Star Colonel Jal Steiner, and have a seat.†She said softly, although an Elemental by birth she did not have the deep voice many of the giant infantrymen had. The doors opened, the light from the doorway flooded into the darkened room, Star Colonel Jal Steiner entered the room and sat down cross-legged across from him.
“I received word that you were looking for me, Oathmaster.†Jal Steiner said he had not even returned to Xi Galaxy, the message had caught up with him less than an hour after Zane’s Trial of Bloodright and a call from the Oathmaster demanded attention.
“Zane was successful.†She said in a slightly out worldly voice lighting a candle.
“Aff†Jal said quietly, he didn’t know what was going on but, considering the Oathmaster’s hushed tone he decided quiet was best.
“Good, I’m sure the Wolves are happy.†She said, Jal Steiner had known Biccon Winters since his capture from Clan Cloud Cobra almost nine years before, and he had never heard her speak using contractions. “Jal Steiner, your influence in the Xi Galaxy has been… dramatic.†Xi Galaxy had taken to the Rossei Cloister beliefs which mirrored the Nova Cats mysticism greatly, they had also changed their camouflage to a swirling mess of colour designed to show their devotion to their beliefs and to show an enemy they had no fear of anything.
“All I did was show them how similar the Nova Cat’s belief in visions and mysticism is similar to that of the Rossei Cloister’s beliefs.â€
“They seem to understand it quite well and have embraced Nova Cat and Rossei beliefs full heartedly, perhaps even more so than any other group in the entire Nova Cat Touman.†Biccon Winters said quietly.
“Why am I here, Oathmaster?†Jal asked he uttered the title with great reverence, the other Clans didn’t have an Oathmaster instead they relied on a Loremaster to guide them and to officiate Clan customs. The Oathmaster of the Nova Cats was however special over all Loremasters, not only could an Oathmaster change the destiny of the Clan with one vision the Nova Cat post of Oathmaster was the first of its type in any of the Clans.
“I am dying…†she said with but a whisper, it was a statement of fact from the Oathmaster almost as if she knew exactly when.
“Dying, how do you…?†He asked confused.
“How does anyone? The Nova Cats are moving on, they have found a new home and are embracing their future. With this I believe the Nova Cat Clan requires a new Oathmaster…†Her voice trailed off, the only way a new Oathmaster could be elected was if the present Oathmaster died or if they were defeated in the Grand Melee, an annual tournament that would decide who was the best candidate for the position.
“The Grand Melee is not for several months†Jal said.
“There is a rarely used clause, if an Oathmaster dies in office their personal journals are consulted and if a successor is named that person takes over until a Grand Melee can be convened. I want to name you as my successor.â€
“I do not understand, I have not even undertaken a Rite of Vision of my own yet let alone watching over others and helping guide our Clan.â€
“That is another reason I asked you hear tonight, look into the flame and concentrate.†She said, she would conduct his vision here and now, traditionally warriors chose when to do their visions themselves picking times in their life that suited them. At Jal’s side was a small vineer pouch, inside were his collected souvenirs of battle, in a Rite of Vision these were sacrificed in an effort to conjure an image or a message that would guide their life’s or even their Clan’s path. Jal closed his eyes as he drew the pouch forward then opened his eyes looking into the small flame.
Suddenly without warning the flame expanded to three times its size, Jal could see an image in the flames. Focusing on the image he saw a dead nova cat, as the image became more focussed Jal noticed that the nova cat’s paws were bloody, but there was no nearby enemies. This image quickly faded and was replaced with another this one was of a nova cat full of life leaping through a star field, the nova cat landed on an island inhabited by what looked like human skulls the nova cat grabbed the skulls with its teeth and threw them from the island then began shaping the island in its own way, making a home. As the nova cat began to feel comfortable a dagger appeared behind hit, just before the dagger struck the nova cat turned on the dagger and shredded it before tossing the remains from the island. Seconds later a long sword appeared and struck the nova cat from a distance, the animal tried to defend itself blunting the sword but was struck down mortally wounded as it crawled away the cat was killed by a group of animals. This disturbing image disappeared and another appeared this one featured a vigilant nova cat catching the dagger in its jaws but instead of destroying the small weapon the nova cat returned the dagger to the sword and both sides came to an understanding the nova cat bowing to the lowered sword.
The image disappeared and the flame became smaller returning to normal “what do you make of that?†Biccon asked Jal noticed that his vineers had mysteriously disappeared, neither of them had moved during the entire encounter.
“The Nova Cats are in trouble†Jal said quietly “a dagger is nearing the Nova Cat’s Den, and when it strikes the Nova Cats will retaliate by destroying it. The Sword will then kill the Nova Cat and the Nova Cat’s enemies will destroy us.â€
“And what does that mean, too you.†Biccon asked, she had seen the images he had but wanted to know what Jal made of the images himself, she wanted him thinking of anything but the dead nova cat they had seen first.
“The Nova Cat’s new home is the Nova Cat’s Den†he said, she nodded “the dagger…†he said thinking “the dagger is a small sword, the Federated Suns has been linked with the sword throughout its history. The Federated Suns has sent a force, or will send, a force to the Nova Cat’s Den. After they discover our Clan is there they will turn on it and destroy us, our enemies will strike us and kill us?â€
“What can we do?â€
“We have to capture the force, intact if possible and return it to the Suns.â€
“And who can do this?â€
“The Khan, I need to speak to the saKhan immediately†he said rushing out the door without another word. Biccon smiled Jal Steiner would make a good Oathmaster, she extinguished the candle and moved to her bed for the last time. Her Clan had discovered a new home and they were safe, but she would not see her Clan’s new home or their future, she had seen to it.
Hall of the Khans
Karl Devalis Personnel Quarters
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
21st January 3059
“What the hell?†Karl was awoken by a constant beeping.
“It has been beeping for the last couple of minutes, I did not know what it was so I left it.†Sellen said rolling over to look at him, she was a saKhan she should have known what it was but Karl ignored the comment.
“It is the priority comm.†he said quietly slipping out of the bed, for once he and Sellen had remained in the bed. Sellen sat up as he crossed the room and entered the adjacent office. “Receive†he said the image of Star Colonel Jal Steiner appeared “Star Colonel, it is three o’clock in the morning here, this had better be good.â€
“I received a vision†Karl sat down, if any warrior came to him with a vision he would take note when a Star Colonel came to him with a vision at three in the morning he really took note.
“Was the Oathmaster with you, Quiaff?†although any vision was taken seriously only ones officially recognised by the Oathmaster were completely followed, after all some visions changed the path of the entire Clan.
“Aff†Jal said “the Oathmaster confirmed it “the Federated Suns are a danger to our home.†He said Karl glanced over his shoulder and noticed Sellen was not in the bedroom, she had probably gone to the bathroom. “I need to contact the Khan, our people are in danger from the sword, the only way we can defend our people is to capture the dagger.†Karl was in circles but Jal Steiner seemed intent in his belief, in a Clan of beliefs he would take her serious.
“The Far Vision is in the Barcella asteroid belt, take a DropShip from Barcella Spaceport under my authority and rendezvous with the Corvette. The WarShip should be able to reach communication range with the Khan within a couple of jumps.†The Star Colonel immediately broke the link just as Sellen entered. “You heard?â€
“I heard something about a sword, a dagger and a threat to the Nova Cat people, in other words trouble.†Sellen said entering the office Karl raised to meet her and they locked in an embrace “you okay?â€
“I will be, with some more sleep†he said smiling he noticed the look on her face “let’s get back to bed.†A small contraction in his voice gave away the tension in his voice, hopefully Jal Steiner had seen something in the Nova Cat’s distant future, at the moment the Khan was en-route to Clan space only the Galaxy Commanders were in the Nova Cat’s Den. This could be delicate and he hoped his people in the Clan’s new home were ready, the entire clan knew that when the Inner Sphere found out about the Nova Cats in the former Tortuga Dominions that there would be trouble, that day had arrived sooner than they had expected.
Avalon Base, Avalon Valley
Strana Mechty, Clan Homeworlds
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Space
25th January 3059
Khan Thomas Perez looked out over the Proving Grounds seeded to his Clan by the Ground Council, today they would be the scene of a Stone Rhino’s elevation to the position of saKhan. Although it was traditional for a Khan to find a saKhan themselves following saKhan Kirsten Kotare’s actions in forming the Watch behind his back Khan Perez had decided to allow any warrior above the rank of Star Colonel, or the equivalent naval rank, to compete for the right to the saKhan post. Beside him sat Khan Cassius N’Buta who had requested the right to be here, although Thomas had no idea why. Out in the Proving Ground the Loremaster was beginning the ceremony that would begin the first trial announcing the combatants, auxiliary monitors activated in front of Perez and N’Buta giving them close up images of the action.
“Khan Perez if I may I would like to talk to you about the Burrocks.â€
“They have enraged my Touman Khan N’Buta by killing our saKhan the Stone Rhino’s are calling for blood.â€
“I was wondering if you might hold off on attacking the Burrocks.â€
“Hold off, why?â€
“The Star Adders have acquired information about the Burrocks that will prove their actions involving the Dark Caste. We will bring this to the council and call for a Trial of Absorption but not yet, if your Clan was to hold off its attacks then I could ensure that the Stone Rhinos were well rewarded for their assistance to the Star Adders.â€
“So the Star Adders would absorb or destroy the Burrocks and the Stone Rhinos would still benefit? Quiaff†Cassius nodded “I could perhaps sell this to my people, but I would need something in return, another target perhaps.â€
“How about the Smoke Jaguars? You can target three of their Inner Sphere worlds, if you take them you can hold them until the Star Adders have the resources to take custody. During this time you can take anything you want from the Smoke Jaguar defenders and the planets themselves.â€
“Agreeable, I would like to take a chunk out of the Smoke Jaguars, upload the information and I will move my Clan to deal with the Smoke Jaguars. Deal with the Burrocks.†As they had been talking Star Colonel Elizabeth Radick had won her first trial, the first of eight she would win that day and the saKhanship of Clan Stone Rhino.
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Hall of the Khans, Grand Council Meeting
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
4th February 3059
At the next Clan Grand Council meeting Khan Cassius N’Buta wasted no time in bringing forward information on Clan Burrock’s involvement with the Dark Caste. By near unilateral vote Clan Star Adder were given complete rights to a Trial of Absorption against Clan Star Adder with only Clan Blood Spirit voting against the Star Adder claim.
Clan Burrock Territory
Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
14th February 3059
The Star Adders assaulted the Burrocks ten days later on a wide front. In orbit over the Burrock capital the Burrocks small WarShip fleet was eliminated quickly the vessels barely putting up a resistance, the Warriors of the Clan claiming they had no idea of their Khans dealing with the Dark Caste and death or Absorption by the Star Adders was better than remaining as Burrocks. On the ground the Adders quickly moved on the Burrock holdings on all six worlds the Burrocks held territory.
Star Adder Territory (Formerly Burrock Territory)
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
23rd February 3059
On the 16th February during the Absorption Battles between Clan Burrock and Clan Star Adder Clan Blood Spirit attacks the Star Adder and Burrock forces. Following this the Burrocks remaining in battle and undefeated by the Star Adders assault the Blood Spirits. Following seven days of heavy fighting the remaining Blood Spirit forces are driven back to their capital holdings on York by the combined Burrock/Star Adder forces.
Freedom’s Price, Scout-class JumpShip
Filtvelt, Nadir Point
Crucis March, Federated Suns
24th February 3059
“This is not the best way to begin a mission.†Ross McKinnon said quietly thoughtfully, the old pirate JumpShip had sprung a seal and vented nearly all its oxygen into space. Thankfully no-one had been hurt or killed and there was a reserve that had kicked in and the DropShip had been able to help replenish the JumpShip’s supply however this was not the best way to start a mission. The incident had been reported to command and they had directed a nearby Challenger Systems JumpShip to their location, Challenger Systems were long term contractors with the AFFS and had brought the Congress-class Frigate to the Federated Suns during the Star League-era and currently brought them Monolith-class JumpShips from their small shipyard in the Panpour system.
When the Challenger Team had arrived they had told the JumpShip captain that the problem was far worse than had originally suspected and that to be safe they would need two months at a shipyard, Ross had persevered with them and told them that the ship needed to last one mission and roughly six jumps (three there, three back) and then it could be dropped into the nearest sun. The Challenger Team leader, a Dr Keith Penshaw, had grumbled about something and using the HPG on Filtvelt had gotten clearance from AFFS High Command to hold the Fox’s Teeth for six days as his team did as much as possible to make the ship safe. Leftenant Rachel Montgomery, the Rabid Fox commander entered “this is not the best way to start an operation†she said echoing his very words “six days stuck in this tube is not my idea of productive time.â€
“You have an idea?â€
“The Rabid Fox always have ideas Captain.†She said with a dazzling smile “the local Filtvelt Garrison can do more if they move about, we could give them a release. Let them check out the other planets around here make sure we are not walking into anything nasty on Tortuga.â€
“We will only be here for six daysâ€
“If we land on Filtvelt it is six days there and back plus some ground time. If you were to comm. them then they could take off tomorrow and we could begin the burn out of here tonight. It would give us some time to see how our people work together and work out some of the kinks.â€
“The good Doctor could have extra time on the deck too†Ross said, the mission was already running late there was no reason why he couldn’t take some liberties with his orders. “I’ll contact ground base and we will figure something out, have our people ready to leave in four hours.â€
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Far Vision, Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette
Unnamed System, Deep Periphery
25th February 3059
Star Colonel (Oathmaster) Jal Steiner was nervous, sitting in the rear of the Far Vision, one of Clan Nova Cat’s Vincent Mk 42-class Corvettes he looked out into the blackness of space. Two days ago they had received a message from saKhan Devalis reporting that Biccon Winters was dead by an apparent suicide. Her will and testament had said she wanted Jal Steiner to take her place and she had confirmed his vision however many onboard the Far Vision were wary of Jal Steiner because he was not a warrior born of the Nova Cat Clan, he had been the last one to see Biccon alive and they were following his vision which outlined deep trouble for the Nova Cats.
The Far Vision was an old ship, that had once served the original Star League like many of the Clan’s WarShips, and so it featured windows on the main bridge giving for spectacular views of the surrounding space. Newer bigger vessels had their Bridge or Command Centre deep inside the WarShip affording the command crew greatly increased protection, this was not what worried Jal Steiner however as he looked into the nothingness ahead of the WarShip, the corvette was pointed away from the only interesting thing in this system the massive star at its core. Behind the corvette between the WarShip and the star hung the massive JumpSail nearly invisible against the blackness of space.
The only way a vessel was able to travel between the stars was by collecting energy from the stars of solar systems, with the JumpSail, and using that collected solar energy to power their massive Kearny-Fuchida Drives which would use the power to rip a whole in space and in an instant cross the blackness of space to the orbit of another star and then the process would start again. Some vessels, most Clan WarShips and some priority JumpShips, carried a Lithium Fusion Battery which allowed them to store a second charge allowing the vessel to make two jumps at the price of one.
When saKhan Devalis had said the Far Vision would need to make two jumps to reach communication range Jal had assumed that he meant a single double-jump using the Far Vision’s Lithium Battery. The corvette’s commander had put him straight however, the Far Vision would have to make two double-jumps which would take a total of four days. At the end of the second double-jump the vessel would be in extreme range of the Occupied Periphery Colony of Nouveaux-Paris, the newly built HPG on Nouveaux Paris colony would have to transmit a message to the WarShip Chronicle, which was deploying an HPG Booster in the Deep Periphery far from any colony or trade route. This Booster would then have to transmit a message to the Khan’s WarShip, the Thunderbolt, using maximum power just to reach the vessel which was somewhere near the Outworlds Alliance. The Thunderbolt would then have to travel for four days to reach communication range with New Barcella within the Nova Cat’s Den. In total they would have to wait eighteen days to communicate with the Clan’s new Homeworlds.
Clan Burrock/Star Adder Territory, Clan Space
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
27th February 3059
Clan Star Adder have defeated all Clan Burrock forces, all Clan Burrock’s remaining warriors, equipment, resources and civilians are absorbed wholly by the Star Adders making Clan Star Adder the strongest Clan in the Homeworlds, even with many troops in the Inner Sphere, and one of the strongest Clans overall.
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Clan Star Adder Territory
York, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
8th March 3059
Following their disastrous defeat during the trials between Clan Burrock and Star Adder Khan Karianna Schmidt leads her Clan Blood Spirit wholly to York, their capital holding, keeping only the Strana Mechty holdings out with York. During several bloody trials the Khan leads her Blood Spirits to victory evicting Clan Jade Falcon and Clan Snow Raven forces from York securing the entire world for her Clan. In orbit the Clan’s four WarShips also take up defensive positions securing the planet meaning anyone wanting to land would have to have a full assault force with them. Even with their entire force there the Blood Spirits still look very weak to the outside eye, and the Blood Spirits have many enemies.
ISF Listening Station Zulu 4
Avon system, Clan Occupation Zone
10th March 3059
The Draconis Combine Internal Security Force technicians monitoring the Clan forces received a comm. from several of their agents a new Clan, the Stone Rhinos, had entered the Occupation Zone controlled by Clan Star Adder and Clan Smoke Jaguar three days before. These forces had hit Smoke Jaguar holdings of Richmond, Idlewind and Rockland. In several bloody trials the Stone Rhinos had secured the systems completely destroying the Smoke Jaguar WarShip Razor Cat, a Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette, although reports suggested a Stone Rhino vessel was also destroyed in the battle. The Stone Rhino Clan was a complete unknown to their intelligence assets none of the ComStar data on the Clans said anything about the Stone Rhinos. Using a Black Box transmitter they sent the data to the ISF headquarters for analysis.
The Black-Box was like a miniature HPG capable of sending short messages over short ranges, the technology had been developed before proper HPGs had been developed the Federated Suns and Lyran Alliance used the technology most however the Draconis Combine had several modules salvaged from the Federated Suns and Lyran Forces during the War of ‘39, after reverse engineering the Draconis Combine also fielded the devices in a limited quantity keeping Draconis Combine secrets away from ComStar but keeping Draconis Combine troops in constant, if a little limited, contact.
Nova Cat Watch Base
Tortuga Prime, Raider’s Roost
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
12th March 3059
For many in the Nova Cat Clan Touman the Watch was seen as a joke, a job for the has-beens and the failures. Which was why Canin Rosse’s request to join the Watch’s newly formed Special Operations Trinary was even more surprising a MechWarrior who had won his Bloodname just before his twentieth birthday, less than one year before, he had won his Trial of Bloodright before winning a Trial of Position, a sign to many he was a ristar, rising star, in the Nova Cat Clan. When he had only defeated a single opponent in his initial Trial of Position some saw it as if he had peaked early however he was still in line to join one of the Nova Cat’s front line Galaxies perhaps even one of the Galaxy Command Trinaries or one of the Nova Cat Keshiks (Personnel Bodyguard of Khans and Galaxy Command units). Instead he had requested assignment to the Watch Special Operations Unit based on the nearly abandoned Tortuga Prime.
The Special Operations Watch unit was something that would probably never function as a ‘Special Operations’ unit because the Clans did not conduct back handed operations, there was no chance of winning honour if you didn’t face your opponent in a face-to-face fight. The unit had only been created as a test project and now served the Nova Cat Scientist Caste in testing new designs and weapons, the warriors assigned to the unit would be lucky to ever see real combat, Canin Rosse had killed his career as a Nova Cat Warrior before it had ever begun. Walking around on Tortuga Canin wondered if his decision to join this unit had been the right one, the Watch controlled the Tortuga Fusiliers main base of operations fifteen warriors inhabiting a base designed to house a full regiment. A vision had pointed him to the Watch and to the Nova Cat’s new home so he had travelled here with the original Nova Cat expedition to the Dominions, the Watch Trinary had struck with Alpha Galaxy, however when Khan West had ascended to the Khanship he had said Tortuga would no longer be their capital and moved the Clan’s civilians and almost all the military forces to a new world which would be their capital.
Now the Watch had been forgotten once more sent to Tortuga to guard the people who had decided to remain, mainly original Tortugan inhabitants. The Tortuga inhabitants had ignored the Watch and the Nova Cat civilians despite the Clan’s attempts to repair damage done in the invasion and from the insurgent forces. Canin thought it was fine if they wanted to ignore the Nova Cats, he wanted as little to do with them as possible as well. Canin did not know why he had asked for this assignment only that this was where he had to be within the Nova Cat Touman, for the good of himself and his Clan.
Freedom’s Price (Invader-class JumpShip)
Lucky Chance (Union-class DropShip)
Nadir Point, Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
18th March 3059
At last the mission was beginning Ross McKinnon was aboard the captured Lucky Chance DropShip and burning towards the Pirate World known as Tortuga Prime the world at the centre of the Tortuga Dominions and one of the worst planets in the entire periphery. Through some clever navigation they had arrived one day ahead of their delayed schedule, a small mercy for a destroyed schedule.
As the DropShip burned in system moving away from the Freedom’s Price, the captured pirate JumpShip, the vessel’s commander watched the vessel disappear. Now all they had to do was wait here for a week, perhaps more, and remain undetected. Originally the vessel would have jumped away however given the vessel’s recent history and damage the plan had changed and the vessel would now remain in the system. “Well how crowded is it?†He asked Tortuga Prime was the Tortuga Dominions main system, at least one of the Tortuga Fusiliers estimated three operational JumpShips should be in system.
“Captain our sensors read nothing at the zenith point either.â€
“Nothing?†the ships commander said quietly “where are the Fusiliers?†He asked quietly recent raids on the Federated Suns periphery borders had dropped by almost sixty percent.
At the other side of the planetary star the Nova Cat Fredasa-class Corvette Spirit Sight observed the JumpShip’s arrival and the DropShips burn in-system. “Allow the DropShip to travel in system, prepare forward weapons and a firing solution against the JumpShip, I want them disabled not destroyed. As soon as we come around the sun send an message to Tortuga about the DropShip inbound.†The Fredasa accelerated forward moving into the JumpShip’s six o’clock position behind the main jump said, the vessels forward weapons came on-line the weapons officers targeted the Corvette’s conventional weapons on the JumpShip, they wanted it captured not destroyed. The Nova Cat Khans wanted all vessels entering the Tortuga system captured, if they were pirates they would be executed, if they were explorers or ComStar they would be imprisoned on Tortuga until something could be done with them and if they were Federated Suns they would be interrogated for information. The JumpSail would be hide them from the JumpShip’s basic tracking system right until now. The Fredasa’s forward paired Gauss Rifles and quad array of Extended-Range Large Lasers, the Gauss Rifles hit the JumpShips rear section right on the JumpSail connections and the four large lasers ripped into the JumpShips main communication array restricting the vessel to short range communications only. To ensure the vessel’s crew did not try and charge their K-F Drive with the vessel’s fusion engines the Spirit Sight helm officer moved the corvette in close, if the JumpShip tried to escape now both vessels would be destroyed.
Onboard the JumpShip the ships commander and his crew only knew there was something wrong when the first impacts were registered and the JumpSail began to separate from the vessel’s hull. “What the hell was that? Tell the DropShip we are under attack!†He said as four high powered lasers incinerated the JumpShip’s communications system.
“Hull breach deck three, communications gone, jump engine destroyed.†The ship’s navigator said just as the Spirit Sight moved into the front view ports. “Clan WarShip dead ahead†he said looking out the view ports, although he could not tell the design class he knew it was one used by the Clans, they were in trouble. The WarShip began launching fighters which surrounded the ship.
“Evacuate Deck three and broadcast our surrender on the low-band tell them to stop firing before they blow us up.†the commander said, he knew that there was no point in resisting a single Clan fighter let alone a WarShip supported by fighters.
“What if they want us destroyed?†One of the crewmen asked.
“We’d be dead already.†As it turned out the commander was right and Clan Elementals boarded the vessel soon after.
City Outskirts
Raider’s Roost, Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
22nd March 3059
The DropShip landed on the outskirts of Tortuga Prime’s only city Raider’s Roost, although the planet had a spaceport there were reinforced landing pads all around the planet. On the DropShips decent Ross McKinnon had noted that there were three DropShips at the Spaceport and a further four around the city, so someone was at least home. So far there had been no communications from the ground or any space borne forces which was strange, traditionally at least one veiled threat was thrown at incoming forces from either people leaving or the ground controllers.
Inside the city the Nova Cat Watch waited watching the Union land, the WarShip had informed them and they had days to secure this area of the city for the arrival of the DropShip all civilians had been moved and their properties boarded and protected as best the Nova Cats could, although none had been happy when they were ordered to move several had noted the Nova Cats were ‘gentler’ than the previous landlords, Fuchida’s Fusiliers would never have taken these precautions.
The Watch were spread out surrounding the area five OmniMechs, mostly weighing seventy tons or more, flanked by ten Vehicles, of various weight, and twenty-five Battle Armoured Elementals, a full Trinary. A Union could normally carry a company of Mechs, twelve, meaning the Nova Cats would outnumber their opponents however the Watch Commander had already said Zellbrigen would not be honoured against these pirates. Although the warriors had been ordered not to go for cockpit hits, they wanted prisoners.
Ross walked his old battered Centurion out of the DropShip, everything was quiet, maybe too quiet. Behind him Rachel Montgomery and her Battle Armour were hidden in the shadow of the DropShip bay, although they were ready to assist the plan was for them to wait and only attack if Ross of the other MechWarriors were attacked, no point in showing they were not pirates. “Okay people, we’re just scum here lets not be too accommodating.†He said walking forward protocol on Tortuga dictated that anyone landing reported to the Fusiliers and stated their business if Ross was going to the spaceport he was taking his Mechs in full support, it wasn‘t below the Fusiliers to seize equipment and people from visitors to Tortuga. The next Mech of his command lance, an equally ancient Catapult walked down followed by a Dervish and an Enforcer the only one not common in the area of space was the Catapult but they were either mercenaries or pirates so it wouldn’t be questioned.
Sitting in his Timber Wolf’s cockpit Canin Rosse scanned each enemy Mech a fifty ton Centurion which looked like it had been extensively modified, followed by a forty-five ton Blackjack with massive laser arms, Canin looked at the other Mechs a fifty-five ton Dervish, with missile launchers but these were in the chest and the Mech’s arms had SRMs and lasers in the paddle-like arms the fourth Mech was an fifty ton Enforcer with an autocannon in one arm and a heavy laser in the other. In Canin’s opinion he could take down all four alone, none were a threat to the Timber Wolf, this would be a slaughter.
Over the course of the next few minutes eight more Mechs moved out and took defensive positions around the DropShip, Ross looked at his Mechs then to the waiting city, something was very wrong he could feel it. “Command Lance your with me, Striker and Recon you have Homefort duties. Move out†he said his command lance began to move out they got about one hundred metres before the trouble Ross had feared reared its ugly head, a seventy ton Summoner landed about two hundred metres from his Centurion, the Mech had obviously jumped down from a nearby building, from the look of the Mech it was in good condition and repair. The Clan OmniMech was outfitted in its most common weapons configuration a PPC in one arm a heavy autocannon in another arm and LRMs over the shoulder, it was painted black with dark blue highlights on the Mech’s left knee and upper left torso was a strange insignia a black cat against a orange and red supernova, Ross had read every report on the Clans, this was not one of the original invading Clans. Either someone had captured a Clan OmniMech intact or this was a new Clan right on the Federated Suns back-doorstep. “McKinnon to DropShip prep for take off we could be in serious trouble here…â€
“Unidentified force I am Star Captain Mathis identify yourself immediately and your reason for being inside the Nova Cat’s Den.†The Summoner pilot said over an open comm. channel behind him several more Mechs, vehicles and Battle Armour were arriving from what Ross could make out a full Trinary of Clansmen, they were in trouble.
“DropShip get out of here, forget us, inform the Federated Suns of this threat. We will buy you time to escape.†Ross said in his private comm. to the DropShip he noticed Rachel Montgomery and here people were on the ground, the Rabid Fox would stand with the Fox’s Teeth in what would probably be their deaths.
“Understood†the DropShip commander said as the doors began to close “good luck… oh my god! Not possible…†he trailed off as the first of ten Nova Cat OmniFighters flew overhead at barely one hundred metres from the deck, if the DropShip took off they would be destroyed in a single volley from the combined firepower of the fighters.
Sitting in his Timber Wolf’s cockpit Canin listened as the led enemy pilot identified himself as Ross McKinnon, a Captain in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns and Commander of the Fox’s Teeth. Behind the Mechs Canin could see small black armoured troopers they were obviously a type of Battle Armour but Canin hadn’t seen them before, the capture of one suit alone would be an intelligence coup. Mathis told them they were enemies of the Nova Cats and should be prepared for combat, Canin was shocked, the Nova Cats were supposed to capture Federated Suns troops not kill them. “One, Four, we should capture them. We have them outnumbered and outgunned, the stand no chance.â€
“Silence Four! Just because you hold a Bloodname does not mean you can question my orders, I still hold rank over you. Prepare to fire…â€
“Neg†Canin said accelerating his Timber Wolf forward as Mathis powered his weapons, just as Mathis fired Canin’s Timber Wolf walked over the line in fire. The Summoner’s LRMs, LB-class Autocannon and PPC struck the Timber Wolf causing some heavy armour damage to the left torso and leg but nothing critical.
Sitting inside his Centurion preparing for the assault from Summoner Ross McKinnon was shocked as the Nova Cat Timber Wolf crossed the Summoner’s firing line and turned its back on the Federated Suns troops “hold your fire everyone, let’s see what these Clanners are up to.†He said as the two Nova Cat warriors began to talk on an open comm.-link.
“ROSSE!†Mathis screamed into the comm.-link “what do you think you are doing!? Remove yourself from the firing line pending a Trial, you are not fit to fight in this Trinary or this Clan!†Mathis continued on an open frequency, everyone could hear them.
“Neg, Star Captain Mathis, by order of the Khan we are to take all Federated Suns troops prisoner, not kill them on sight. They posse no threat to us and with our fighters and WarShip in the air they cannot escape.â€
“I have made my choice, they are a clear an present danger to our Clan‘s position on this world. Stand down and get out of the way.â€
“Neg, Star Captain Mathis, you are looking for personal honour and combat not what the Clan needs. I challenge you to a Trial of Position for your rank and command of this Trinary.â€
“You cannot challenge me, you have no grounds.â€
“You are unfit to command this unit as you are refusing to carry out the Khan’s orders. Captain McKinnon, I am MechWarrior Canin Rosse, do you accept my offer of your unconditional surrender? You have my word your people will not be mistreated.†Canin said still on an open comm. if he could secure the Federated Suns troops surrender that would win over the rest of the Trinary quickly and weaken Mathis position.
“We accept your offer Rosse, we don’t want to be your bondsmen but we don’t want to die either.†He said ‘defend your men’ he thought, this Canin Rosse seemed to be his best bet at survival.
“Perhaps I can guarantee neither happens.†Canin said quietly then turned back to his commander “Star Captain, I have secured their surrender, you owe me a trial.†Canin said the Star Captain had other ideas however and opened fire with autocannon, PPC and LRMS, amazingly only the LRMs struck home causing armour damage on the left arm and leg still nothing to threaten the Timber Wolf‘s impressive armour protection. “Fine, this is a Trial of Position, may no other enter†Canin said quickly as he triggered both his Timber Wolf’s twenty-tube LRM launchers, the forty missiles engulfed the Summoner’s chest. Not giving Mathis a chance to recover Canin opened fire with his Mech’s arm mounted Extended-Range Large and Medium Lasers savaging the other Mech, the Timber Wolf was a far superior Mech to the Summoner its only advantage over the Timber Wolf was the five Jump Jets in its legs and torso, something Mathis hadn’t used in this fight, and something Canin would give him no chance to take advantage of.
The Lasers exposed holes in the Summoner’s armour created by the LRMs causing heavy damaged, Mathis stumbled his Summoner forward unable to control the Mech, Canin took advantage and triggered both LRM launchers again engulfing the Summoner in fire, the seventy ton Mech went down fast not moving. “You are defeated surrender.â€
“Never, these Spheroids are as good as dead.â€
“Then so are you†Canin said walking around the Mech stepping on the Summoner’s cockpit crushing Mathis. “Watch Trinary, this fight is over I declare myself victor any who wishes to challenge this step forward." When no-one stepped forward Canin turned back to the Federated Suns troops, the Fox’s Teeth. “Fox’s Teeth, you are now guests of Clan Nova Cat, follow us or be destroyed.†Without further argument Ross and the Fox’s Teeth moved in line behind the Nova Cat Mechs the Vehicles followed and the Rabid Fox Battle Armour was escorted by the Elementals. On the way back to base they received a download from the Khan’s WarShip which had just entered the system, none of the Federated Suns troops were to be killed before the Khan spoke to them.
Nova Cat Watch Base
Raider’s Roost, Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
23rd March 3059
Big decisions demanded consequences, that was the way the world went around, Canin Rosse had know this for years and taking out Star Captain Mathis the way he did had kept Canin alive following the Trial however as soon as the Federated Suns troops had been corralled and held in custody Canin himself was taken into custody by the units two remaining Star Commanders, if Canin had taken Mathis prisoner there would not have been a problem but Canin had killed Mathis following the fight and in many warrior’s eyes that was crossing the line of honour. Now Canin Rosse’s fate laid with Khan Santin West who had landed on planet a little over an hour ago.
Khan Santin West entered the small office and Canin rose from the small seat he had been sitting on. “MechWarrior Rosse what the hell do you think you were doing?â€
“Star Captain Mathis wanted to execute the Federated Suns troops, I challenged him to honourable combat, he refused and attacked. I intercepted the attack, challenged him again, which he refused, and then defeated Mathis in the following battle. We then escorted the Fox’s Teeth and the Rabid Fox troops to this base.†Canin said filling Santin West in on the events, he noticed the Khan take specific notice of the two special names the units used obviously they were significant but that the Khan didn‘t listen to the details of what had happened, it was like he knew what the events were and what had happened many within the Clan believed that Santin West was blessed with visions as many other Nova Cats were Canin had never believed such talk a Nova Cat warrior would be lucky to receive one vision let alone the two Santin West claimed to have received.
“And Mathis is dead†it wasn’t a question but Canin answered anyway.
“The Star Captain told me that the prisoners were as good as dead if he survived. The only way we are going to survive here is if we are careful.†Canin said quietly “if we kill the Federated Suns Special Forces Team and the Federated Suns comes looking for it our forces will be annihilated by the Inner Sphere, with little territory in the Homeworlds we cannot survive. If we were to return the team to the Federated Suns then perhaps we could find a way to co-exist. Because Mathis was against this plan I eliminated him from the equation, I stand by my decision.â€
“Not the Clan Way, MechWarrior, the Clans take what they need to survive or they die.â€
“That is the way of the Clans in the Homeworlds, this is the Inner Sphere, we live with them or we utterly destroy them. If we try to take from the Federated Suns without completely establishing ourselves here in the ‘Den, they have far more resources than us and can call in the rest of the Inner Sphere for support, the other Clans will not help us. We would die.â€
“I agree, Star Captain†Santin said to Canin after a few moments, promoting him without another word Canin Rosse was the perfect man to help Santin West take the Nova Cats forward although some may challenge this promotion and question Santin‘s methods the Khan knew that only Nova Cats within the Watch would be a threat to Canin as no warrior would willingly move into the Watch. “The Inner Sphere is a far more dangerous place than the Homeworlds. Here in the Periphery I believe we can do what we want but if we were to take liberties with the Federated Suns, the closest Successor State, then we would evoke the wrath of the whole Inner Sphere. We need to be careful. Where are the Federated Suns forces?â€
“We have them secured in the old pirate base inside one of the canteen areas. We have secured all exits, although they have tried to escape several times none of them and no Nova Cat personnel have been harmed.â€
“Good work, Star Captain, we will leave them for a few days. Continue to feed them and ensure they are joined by the DropShip crew and are given their proper uniforms from their vessel.â€
Proving Grounds, Nova Cat Territory
Barcella Alpha Plant, Barcella
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
28th March 3059
‘I shouldn’t be doing this’ saKhan Karl Devalis thought he felt out of place, the Khan had been supposed to be brining this new unit into the Touman but was stuck on Tortuga. The rest of the Clans knew that the Nova Cat Khan had been planning on overseeing this ceremony however for some unknown reason saKhan Devalis had instead taken over the duties, now every Clan was asking questions about where the Nova Cat Khan and the majority of the Clan were.
Today however the Nova Cats were answering no questions, instead they were providing the rest of the Clans with something else to think about. Today Clan Nova Cat debuted the Nova Cat OmniMech, a new heavy design that had been in development for three years, although not the heaviest or fastest design over half of its seventy tons was dedicated to weapons and equipment. On the field were three Nova Cat OmniMechs outfitted in several different weapons configurations, opposite them were three opposing Mechs common with the other Clans and with the Inner Sphere. “Allow this Trial to be fought with honour and skill†Karl said into the communication system “begin.â€
The three Nova Cats selected their targets, under standard clan battle tactics and Zellbrigen the Mechs would fight one-on-one battles. The first Nova Cat was outfitted with what the scientists planned to be the Primary weapons configuration two Extended-Range PPCs in one arm and three Extended-Range Large Lasers in the other, this gave the Mech massive ranged firepower and no chance of running out of ammunition. The only problem with the Mech was that it could not vent all the heat produced by the weapons fire meaning that if a warrior fired without thinking they would shutdown their Mech from excessive heat. The MechWarrior at the controls targeted a charging eighty ton Gargoyle Assault OmniMech popular with Clan Wolf. The Nova Cat opened up with it’s three lasers which burned armour over the OmniMech, the heavier assault Mech stumbled under the fire the MechWarrior stunned by the assault the moment lapse allowed the Nova Cat to fire both its PPCs removing the Gargoyle’s left arm. The Gargoyle pilot returned fire with its remaining ranged weapon a medium-class LB-class autocannon, the autocannon shells tore up the Nova Cats torso but did little critical damage due to the Nova Cat mounting most of its weapons in the arms and due to the OmniMech‘s thick armour. The Nova Cat seemed to weigh up the Gargoyle for a moment then in an instant all five weapons on the Nova Cat blazed at once striking both the Gargoyle’s left and right leg, both legs lost all armour in an instant and the pilot lost control of the Mech following the loss of almost four tons of armour. The Gargoyle slammed into the ground, the Nova Cat walked over to the downed Gargoyle but did not fire, this fight was over another volley from the Nova Cat would be a death sentence to the Gargoyle pilot something that may happen on the field but never when it was Nova Cat against Nova Cat. “Impressive, however the Gargoyle is not what I would call an impressive design, it is too under armed for an assault Mech.†Karl said to the led scientist “also the Nova Cat pilot was obviously an extremely good shot.â€
“He took the Gargoyle down in three volleys, that OmniMech is ten tons heavier than the Nova Cat.â€
“As I said impressive, although not as impressive as it would have been against a more capable opponent†he said, the Gargoyle was not the most impressive OmniMech fielded by the Clans still the Nova Cat had done well “next please.†He said, the Nova Cat’s performance was quite impressive and the OmniMech had been able to cope with the heat quite well, although the finally volley had pushed the design to its limit, Karl was sure. That kind of ranged firepower would make the Nova Cat a powerful sniper/support design. However the slow speed of the design would be a hindrance the Nova Cat only had a top speed of sixty-five kilometres per hour compared to speeds over eighty-five kilometres per hours with most Clan Heavy OmniMechs.
The next Nova Cat walked forward, instead of attacking another Mech however it was joined by an eighty-five ton Warhawk, the same type of Mech Karl piloted. Ahead of the two Mechs was a series of targets of decreasing size and increasing range, the Nova Cat and Warhawk began taking out the targets in sequence Karl noted that the Nova Cat was able to hit its targets at a longer range than the Warhawk although the Warhawk did more damage, the Nova Cat was using four Extended-Range Large Lasers while the Warhawk used four Extended-Range PPCs. The final targets were behind a barrier and the Warhawk was forced to move around one hundred metres to hit the target effectively. The Nova Cat launched itself skyward on jump jets, its lasers lashed out in mid-air destroying the target moments before the Warhawk destroyed its target, the telling fact was the Nova Cat landed a mere two metres from its starting point and the Warhawk was nearly one hundred-and-twenty metres away. “Again I am impressed although I am curious why did the you use a Warhawk? The Targeting Module on the ‘hawk gives it quite an advantage.â€
“The Nova Cat Alpha uses a targeting computer module as well as Jump Jets and lasers.†Karl nodded the Nova Cat’s ground speed matched the Warhawk’s and the targeting computer matched the assault Mechs module, the only advantage the eighty-five ton Mech had was the PPCs were more powerful than the lasers, which was countered by the laser’s superior range. The Warhawk also mounted Long Range Missiles as a back up and for indirect fire support but the Nova Cat made up for that by using jump jets something Karl had always found lacking in the Standard Warhawk OmniMech, which was why he had personally modified his own OmniMech to allow for the incorporation of Jump Jets if the situation required them. Although it was not an easy modification to make Karl was pleased his techs had been able as it gave the Warhawk unparalleled uses with little sacrificed for the vastly improved capability.
“A very nice combination. What of the third configuration?†He asked seeing another Mech enter the field a newly captured Draconis Combine seventy ton Avatar. “Why a Inner Sphere design?â€
“This is one of their newest OmniMech designs. The Diamond Sharks were able to acquire one from the Star Adders, we were able to acquire it for research purposes.â€
“Why compare this Mech to a Clan Mech?†In Karl’s eyes anything Inner Sphere was inferior to their Nova Cat counterparts the new Inner Sphere OmniMechs were included in this assessment. The Avatar looked like a bigger version of the Clan-built Mad Dog, or Vulture, to Karl the OmniMech did not impress him and even though it was heavier than the Clan Mech it was still inferior in speed and weapons.
“The Avatar has the same ground speed as the Nova Cat and the Avatar Beta Configuration is designed to do the same as the Nova Cat Beta†he said Karl’s reaction “we have no idea how this is possible, however, as this test will prove how inferior Inner Sphere technology is to that of the Clans.†The scientist said as the two Mechs began firing the Nova Cat fired a total of ninety Long Range Missiles per salvo while the Avatar fired only seventy and finally the two Mechs rounded off with laser blasts from medium lasers, the Nova Cats struck with more power and range. “Our Mech has better endurance than the Avatar, there is better heat dispensation capabilities on the Nova Cat and back up weapons are superior as is the armour protection. The only two things the Avatar is able to do is match out new Mech’s speed and each of it‘s missile launchers have advanced fire control.â€
“Well I am impressed it will make a worthy addition to our Heavy Mech stars, although the use of an Avatar here today was perhaps a mistake.†Karl said noting several scientists of other Clans watching and at least one high flying Aerospace Fighter. “I am glad to welcome the Nova Cat into our Clan‘s Touman, congratulations doctor it is an impressive design.â€
“Thank you, saKhan, it is a shame the Khan could not make it.â€
“He will see the capabilities of the Nova Cat in time. What of the Nova Cat‘s sister design?†He asked when the Nova Cat Development project had begun two designs were planned to come out of it, the first would be the Nova Cat, pride of the Touman, the second would be its back-up and together they would command Nova Cat units into the future.
“Still in development, saKhan, we are looking at having a working prototype before the end of the year. The Nova Cat is ready for production.â€
Comments and questions are always welcome
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Nova Cat Watch Base
Raider’s Roost, Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
1st April 3059
‘As jail cells went this one isn’t half bad’ Ross McKinnon thought quietly it was a large recreation room possibly a canteen of some sort, the whole company was still together as were the Rabid Fox troopers and the crew of the DropShip. The Nova Cats had provided them with their uniforms from the DropShip and given them plenty of food and water on demand. So far none of the Federated Suns personnel had been interrogated and the only Nova Cats anyone had seen were the Elementals who guarded each door and the techs when food was delivered. “We can’t find anything boss.†Rachel Montgomery said walking over to Ross, the Rabid Fox troopers prided themselves at being able to get into or out of anything, since their incarceration the Rabid Fox troopers had prized open a dozen panels in the floor, the roof and each of the walls they had found nothing. “Whoever built this didn’t build it to allow people to get out.â€
“Great, well I guess all we can do is sit and wait, at least the companies not bad.†He said smiling at Rachel.
“Whatever you say boss but I’m not good at waiting.†Rachel said returning his smile he hadn’t noticed just how beautiful she was before, military life had kept him single for years, maybe it was time to begin to consider something else, but not right now after all this was over if, no when they were back on New Avalon, he promised himself he’d get to know Rachel Montgomery better.
“I’m not sure any of us are… why the hell are the Nova Cats here? As far as I could tell there are no remaining pirate forces in system but the Clanners have a little over a Trinary here on planet, at least visible to us. How the hell could they take an entire regiment of pirates with a Trinary? Clan tech is better than ours and certainly vastly superior to the pirates equipment but still a Trinary against a Regiment?â€
“They could have pulled a Turtle Bay, I heard one of the troopers mention a WarShip in orbit.†Rachel suggested Ross thought about it for a moment then dismissed it the majority of Raider’s Roost looked no better now than it had when he’d been here four years previously some damage both nothing extensive. Orbital Bombardment, even surgical strikes, left a lot of mess Ross had seen the scars left on some worlds centuries after the original attack and stills of the devastation on Turtle Bay in the Draconis Combine after the Smoke Jaguar attack.
“The planet look’s the same as last time I was here four years ago†Ross said he noticed Rachel’s questioning glance “my first job with the Teeth, only we weren’t known by the name back then. Just a simple company giving the pirates a very bad day.†He said with a smile on his face, an easier time.
“I think that might be all the forces they have on planet. After we landed and the Nova Cats took you away we scanned all the DropShips on planet, see what we could get away with,†the DropShip commander said moving over “all the vessels on planet bar-one are completely powered down and uninhabited. The planet is barley inhabited maybe three hundred soles remaining on world.â€
“Tortuga has over eight million soles where are the rest of the population?†Ross asked quietly.
“Unknown, but the Aerospace…â€
“Omni†Rachel corrected, “the Clans use mostly re-configurable Fighters much like their Mechs.†Clan technology was so far in advance of their Inner Sphere it was staggering and although they looked similar to standard models there was a distinct difference.
“Whatever†the captain said dismissing it, he couldn’t give a damn what they were, he was a Mech commander not a fighter jock “anyway the fighters we saw ascended to orbit instead of landing.â€
“They could have been waiting in orbit saving fuel just in case you tried to run†Rachel said.
“Maybe but we were held for more than twelve hours before they brought down the DropShip crew, how many aerospace fighter pilots do you know that have waited in orbit for more than six hours let alone twelve. No new DropShips?â€
“One, but it carried some heavy looking guns and didn’t look like a carrier vessel of any type, more like an assault or scout ship.†Just at that moment the doors opened and in walked two Elementals the suits without their SRM launchers although Ross couldn‘t be sure it looked like heavy machine guns were mounted in their arms, they were purely anti-Infantry troopers. Each warrior stepped to either side of the doors and stood to attention, two more Elementals walked-in and crossed the room and took up positions across from the door guards from their positions they could cover the entire room with their machine guns and didn‘t have to worry about hitting each other due to their thick battle armour suits.
“Something’s up, get your people ready.†Ross said levering himself to his feet moving across the room to the MechWarriors, if they got the chance they would try to break out. Just then another Elemental entered, this warrior wore no armour and was only little taller than a regular man instead of a mountain like most Elementals. Normally Ross would have taken him for a tall man however he had a massive upper body that someone could only gain through the genetic engineering used to create the Elementals. His uniform had only the Nova Cat crest on it’s left breast and no indication of rank, at his hip he wore a pistol of some type and a dagger and in his mouth was a smoking cigar under a bushy moustache.
“I am Khan Santin West, leader of Clan Nova Cat. Who is in charge here?†The new arrival said Ross was shocked. Although he knew little about the Clan culture he knew that inside individual Clans a Khan was as powerful as the First Prince of the Federated Suns, if the Nova Cat Khan was here the Federated Suns was in grave danger and possible immediate attack.
“At the moment you are†he said defiantly “but normally I’m in charge.†He noticed the Nova Cat Khan smile briefly as Ross continued on “I am Ross McKinnon, Captain, commander of the Fox‘s Teeth, an independent company of the Seventh Crucis Lancers RCT, of the Federated Suns.†Ross said stepping forward he expected the Elementals against the walls to grab him and drag him away but none of the Elementals moved. Santin West stepped forward and extended his hand Ross met the man‘s grip and felt his hand nearly crushed by the Elemental as they shook.
“Nice to meet you Captain, I assume your people have been treated adequately, Quiaff?†He asked, almost immediately he noticed the Captain’s confusion “they have been treated well?†He asked again clarifying his question.
“Well enough Khan West, however, we are slightly confused why is your Clan here and where are the Tortuga Fusiliers?â€
“Our Clan is here and throughout the nearby systems to build a new home for our people. The Tortuga Fusiliers are dead and the population of Tortuga have mostly joined the Nova Cat population on our new Homeworld, New Barcella.†Khan West said Ross' head was spinning as he listened to the Nova Cat Khan, Rachel must have noticed because she stepped forward.
“If I may Khan West? I am Leftenant Rachel Montgomery commander of the Rabid Fox Platoon assigned to Captain McKinnon‘s company.†She said West released Ross' half crushed hand Rachel noticing Ross massage his hand braced herself only to find the Khan had a delicate touch as he shook her hand.
“Glad to meet you lass†Khan Santin West said, he was amazingly informal with them and spoke to them as equals not a captor to his prisoner very, very strange Rachel had heard of warriors captured by the Clans being made into their bondsmen forced to work as labourers until the captors deemed them good enough to join their Clan, they never returned home but the Nova Cats had never done that never even mentioned it once.
“When you say the Fusiliers are dead you mean here on Tortuga, you drove them off?†West shook his head “you destroyed them completely?†West nodded once “and the population have joined you on New Barcella, which is where exactly?â€
“Hidden from prying eyes.†West said quietly, as far as he was aware no-one had ever discovered the world the Nova Cats now called New Barcella, with eighty percent of all Nova Cat civilians there, he was not ready to give up that location yet. “Understand me when I say the Nova Cats are here to make a new life I mean our entire Clan. At present we have approximately seven Galaxies of ground troops with full support and between twenty and twenty-five WarShips spread over eight worlds as well as over ten million Civilian Soles. The Nova Cats are here to stay permanently.†Both Ross and Rachel shared a glance, if the Federated Suns ever found out about this then they would wish they had not. No Inner Sphere State could answer a threat of that kind of firepower, not even the strongest Successor State which for a long time had been the Federated Suns, and given the Nova Cats had their civilians with them they would fight as if every fight was their last, anyone who attacked them would pay a hefty price. “Now, to the reason I have come here today. The Nova Cats have no wish to cause the Federated Suns or any other state trouble, at least for the time being. We are looking to open a dialogue with your leadership.†Ross and Rachel shared another glance both wondering if they were in koo-koo land, or if the Nova Cat Khan was. “To start with we have set aside an entire building of this compound for your exclusive use, no Nova Cats will bother you during your time in this building. Now I must warn you there are no weapons in this building and that the entirety of Clan Nova Cat’s Alpha Galaxy just landed on planet. In orbit there are two WarShips and one of those has naval-class autocannons locked onto that very building so escape will be suicide, also all DropShips on planet are within weapons range of those vessels and the WarShips are under orders to shoot first and ask questions later in the event of an unauthorized take-off.â€
“Why give us our freedom if we cannot leave the planet and there is no chance of escape?†Ross asked, saying those words made him feel wrong the Fox’s Teeth had never been beaten in battle, he didn’t like feeling helpless.
“You will have full access to this base and its personnel as well as the city beyond, not many people still live there but there are regular Nova Cat patrols that move through the city ensuring the remaining civilians are living a decent lifestyle. We want to show you that the Clans can create as well as destroy and that we are building a life here not staging for conquest.â€
“Show us New Barcella and we might believe you, a whole new world you have colonized instead of conquered, that would be nice to see.â€
“In time…†West said turning to the door “Star Captain Rosse, take care of these people please, I must begin the long trip to the Homeworlds.â€
“The Homeworlds? The Clan Homeworlds?†Ross said “Khan West, if I may be so bold to say†West nodded “if you want to prove you are peaceful take me to the Clan Homeworlds, I will act as a bondsmen does to you no-one will know.â€
“I am afraid that is not possible Captain. We found several transmitters in all of your equipment and your personnel effects, the Inner Sphere’s capabilities in covert operations is obviously far in advance than that of the Clans. I cannot risk you having an implanted device or training on how to operate long range communications, anything that will give away the location of the Homeworlds.†Ross understood the Khan’s words and was tempted to say the Inner Sphere already knew the location of one Homeworld and was planning an assault. “Perhaps once trust has been gained. The Star Captain will cater to your needs.†West said leaving without another word, Ross looked at Rachel and shrugged his shoulders it had been worth a try another Clan officer entered as the Elementals and Khan West moved out, this left the Clan Star Captain alone with nearly three dozen Federated Suns personnel Ross made no move so no-one else did.
“I will show you to your new quarters.†The man said, he was perhaps twenty years old, four years younger than Ross, but held the same rank, or at least an equivalent one to his Federated Suns Captaincy, and his voice was familiar he noticed Rachel thought the same thing. As they walked Ross nodded to Rachel who moved alongside the Clan officer.
“Star Captain Rosse, don’t think I’m coming on to you or anything but do we know each other?†She ventured it was the worse line in the book but the only thing she could think of.
“Coming on to?†Canin wondered out loud then shook his head dismissing it as unimportant, he turned to Rachel briefly “Aff, we have met†Canin said continuing to move forward.
“When and How?†She’d fought few battles against the Clans and never against the Nova Cats perhaps he hadn’t been born within the Nova Cat Clan.
“We met on the field of battle, when you landed on this planet.†Rachel shot a glance at Ross “understand I did this out of following orders not out of any feeling I have towards you or your unit.†Rachel dropped back to Ross' level behind Canin.
“Won’t be inviting him home to the parents then.†She said in a low voice to her astonishment Canin looked over his shoulder smiled then continued forward ‘bloody Clanners’ she thought.
Their quarters were spartan and nearly none of the computers/electronics worked but it was far better than the canteen they had been held in. There was running water an area for storing and preparing food. The Nova Cats also stuck with their promise with no-one baring Star Captain Rosse being anywhere near, when Ross asked him if they could be alone the Nova Cat Star Captain moved off leaving the Federated Suns personnel completely alone.
“Better get comfy people, this building might be ours but it’s surrounded on all sides by some heavily armed guards, they’re keeping their distance and we’re being left to our own devices but they’re there.†One of the Rabid Fox troopers said returning from a quick recon of the building.
“Rachel, Set up a guard watch that rotates ever four hours, the rest of you find a bunk and get some shut-eye, we will figure out what we are going to do in a couple of days.†Ross said, no point in rushing things, none of them had a decent nights sleep in the canteen a proper rest would put things in perspective.
Crossing the courtyard again Canin re-entered the command building Khan West was there “My Khan our guests are settling in.â€
“Good, keep them comfortable and afford them all considerations. If you have trouble deal with it how you feel is appropriate. You are in command here on Tortuga until I return.â€
“What about Alpha Galaxies commanders?â€
“They are coming with Alpha Galaxy an me to the Homeworlds. The only change to my plans are I will be taking only the Thunderbolt, Blood Oath and Bond with me to the Homeworlds, the rest will remain to maintain the threat of orbital bombardment if necessary. There is a civilian engineering detachment due on Tortuga in three days, its security detail can support you if necessary. And the WarShips in orbit have fighters and their weapons trained on this base.â€
“The only way they can help is by flattening this base. Another test for the Watch Quiaff?â€
“What better way to prove yourselves than to prove it with one of the most Elite unit’s the Inner Sphere can offer. Good luck Star Captain†Santin West said then walked off, less than an hour later the Sacred Rite took off and left, soon after the Thunderbolt left orbit rejoining the other WarShips, three of the vessels left the system while the other three remained at the Zenith and Nadir points and the Spirit Sight remained in high orbit over the base. Canin was left wondering about the Khan’s comment ‘one of the Inner Sphere’s most Elite?’ from what Canin had seen the so-called Fox’s Teeth and Rabid Fox were anything but elite.
Hall of the Khans
Stone Rhino Hall, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
5th April 3059
“Your Stavag troops should not be in the Inner Sphere! Your Clan never even existed when we decided to invade the Inner Sphere! You have not fought trials or gained the right to enter the Inner Sphere! Why have your troops taken three Smoke Jaguar Worlds?â€
“We are there by request of another.â€
“Explain!†Lincoln Osis screamed Thomas smiled, the Smoke Jaguar Elemental seemed to get smaller and smaller as the days went on.
“Khan Cassius N’Buta contracted several of the Stone Rhino’s Clusters and WarShips for a modest price, originally this was for Periphery Garrison duty only however this has changed and now we are being moved forward. The Stone Rhinos in the Inner Sphere are officially under Star Adder colours and command, so my Clan has broken no rules or laws. Anything else ilKhan?â€
“Yes, my Watch officers inform me your Clan has built an Omni-QuadMech is this true?â€
“Aff, the Stone Rhino is our Clan’s newest design. Would the Smoke Jaguars be interested in trading for it or fighting a trial for the design.â€
“Only a Trial of Annihilation. It like your Clan is an affront to our culture. Not that it matters Perez, in just over a month your grace period is over and your entire Stavag Clan will be dead.†Osis said over his shoulder as he stormed out the office, Perez smiled sending a message to Khan N’Buta concerning the ilKhan’s anger over the situation.
Mechbay, Nova Cat Watch Base
Tortuga Prime,
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
10th April 3059
The Federated Suns personnel had been on their best behaviour working with the Nova Cats in everything from relief missions to the city, to decommissioning the DropShips left over by the pirates to some hand-to-hand combat exercises. Today Ross McKinnon had awoken to find a message left by Star Captain Canin Rosse although younger than Ross he had found the Nova Cat Star Captain very insightful and interesting they two had already spent at least two nights drinking till dawn exchanging stories and Ross had taught the Nova Cat Star Captain how to play poker, apparently the Clan training program did not include card games. The message said only one thing - come to the Mechbay - up until now the Mechbay had been off-limits to the Federated Suns personnel however as Ross stepped out he found a Nova Cat tech who agreed to take him into the bay just in case someone was looking for one of the Federated Suns personnel to make a mistake.
The Mechbay was a massive structure with several metres clearance over the Mechs held inside allowing the techs to have massive cranes and winches inside making refit of Battle and OmniMechs easier and faster. Some Mechbays were built into mountains for extra protection and on a planets surface they were one of the most valuable things a commander could have, although you could use a DropShip’s Mechbay a purpose built Mechbay was better equipped and roomier. Inside the Mechbay Ross saw several of the Rabid Fox troopers demonstrating a pair of Infiltrator Mk I suits to a group of Elementals and techs, in the back the Nova Cat scientists were with the Federated Suns techs looking over an Elemental Battle Armour suit. The Nova Cats were just giving them the intelligence that would have taken years of expensive reverse engineering to unlock, so far the Nova Cats had allowed them to maintain their rank structure and left them fully autonomous and now they were sharing scientific secrets, maybe the Nova Cats did walk the peace path.
“Captain over here!†Canin shouted, the Nova Cat Star Captain was descending from what looked like Ross' Centurion, closing Ross wondered if the Mech could ever be called a Centurion again.
“What have you done to my baby?†Ross asked looking at the Mech that had been his ride since joining the AFFS, the fifty ton machine looked nearly completely different. The Autocannon on the right arm looked longer and more lethal, the torso mounted Long Range Missile launcher had an extra five launch tubes attached making a total of fifteen, there seemed to be a enhanced rangefinder laser attached to the launcher as well and the centre torso lasers were both facing forward instead of one forward one back.
“One of the scientists thought your tech looked a little out of date and asked if they could tinker about with it, I did not have a problem with it so I okayed the project, your Command Lance has been fully enhanced and the rest are nearing readiness.â€
“Enhanced how?†Ross didn’t like hearing his unit’s tech being called sub-standard as every one of the Mechs was less than five years old, but then compared to the Clan technology the unit probably did look a little dated.
“Well we do not have an on-planet factory so we could not do anything structurally or with the engine so you are stuck with factory specs on speed and skeleton strength however the weapons we have up-gunned a little.†Canin said stepping closer to the Mech Ross followed “the LB-type autocannon on the arm is nice and flexible weapon, low heat and nice punch but we gave it a proper gun a Gauss Rifle now you can head-cap the biggest assault Mech at about a maximum range of six hundred-and-sixty metres.†Ross felt his mouth uncontrollably drop open, he’d seen Gauss Rifles in operation an they were lethal to the heaviest design but Inner Sphere models were not practical on Light or Medium designs like the Centurion, weight demanded the design made too much compromise, now the Clans had put one on his Centurion like it was nothing. “The techs wanted to put a Extended-Range PPC on it instead and give you proper firepower but that would compromise the Mech’s cool running so I over-ruled them.†Ross nodded the Clan Extended-Range PPC was perhaps the most lethal weapon known to man with range and strike power in abundance unfortunately it produced an equally massive heat spike on any Mech it was mounted, the scariest sight Ross had ever seen was a Smoke Jaguar Warhawk outfitted in its Primary Configuration for the first time. The Four Extended-Range PPCs mounted on that beast were absolutely lethal, no question on the Mech‘s or the Weapon‘s power. “The LRM launcher has been upgraded to a fifteen-rack and an artemis fire control system has been added giving you a heavier more accurate bite at long range.†Canin said indication to the left torso “both the Rifle and the Launcher are fed with two tons of ammo each which has been protected by CASE†Canin said CASE stood for Cellular Ammunition Storage Equipment, if a Mech’s ammo bay was breached by weapons fire the CASE tech prevented the subsequent explosion totally engulfing the Mech killing the pilot. “Finally we upgraded the two lasers to Extended Range variants and swapped both forward. Better range and better punch up front a proper back up when you run out of ammo.†Ross smiled ’and every time I fire them and move the Mech’s heat will sky rocket so much for keeping this a cool-running Mech’ he thought quietly. “we also upgraded your heat sinks to double strength†Ross nodded double heat sinks got rid of double the heat hence their name, Inner Sphere double heat sinks were far bulkier than their Clan counterparts which was why they had been left of the original design Clan tech had allowed them to be fitted, their inclusion would restore the Centurion‘s cool-running. “Oh and with the saved tonnage we stuck some more armour on the back, you can take a laser hit to the back now and still have some armour if your lucky. What do you think?â€
“It looks nothing like it did before but I like it, not that it will ever see combat under its true colours.†Ross said glancing at the Federated Suns insignia on his jumpsuit.
“Why not? What would you do if I said that you could take that Mech and your company out there and fight under full Federated Suns colours again.â€
“I mean proper combat, not an exercise.â€
“No exercises Captain. Four hours ago the WarShips detected a JumpShip entering the system it dropped four DropShips and they are inbound, none are Federated Suns registered as far as we can tell. I asked the WarShips to drop out of sight and deal with the JumpShip once they were gone. Now if we can get your company upgraded then we could give the pirates a little surprise, say a company of Federated Suns Mechs meet them on the field of battle and then we give them a little bite from behind as well.â€
“You would trust us with armed Mechs?â€
“Why not? You are in the middle of the Den, on a near deserted planet with roughly eight Galaxies of troops in the surrounding systems. Also your JumpShip is disabled and we have WarShips capable of destroying any DropShip with a single shot in system. Even if you took out my Trinary you would have nowhere to go but your own graves. Before we enter combat I will inform the WarShips of our plans, when it returns it will get a specific code from me or it will destroy the surface of this planet and every DropShip it detects.†Ross nodded, when it was put that way he could see why the Nova Cat Star Captain would allow it but why under Federated Suns colours instead of Nova Cat or even a pirates, Ross decided that it would wait as the thought of being back in a Mech took over.
“Agreed, how long do we have?â€
“Seventy-Two Hours approximately, and in that time we have eight Mechs to finish and twelve Mechs to paint up, your toy-robot Battle Armour could do with some painting too but I will leave that up too you.†Canin said smirking, every single Nova Cat had made a comment about the inadequacies of the Infiltrator Mk Is design, compared to the Elemental the Clans did not class the Infiltrator Mk I as a Battle Armour design just a play toy.
“The Rabid Fox like their black, but I’ll talk to Leftenant Montgomery and see what she thinks. Lets get to work then.†Ross said shaking Canin’s hand.
Khan Thomas Perez Office
Stone Rhino Hall, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
11th April 3059
Sitting opposite his saKhan Elizabeth Radick Khan Thomas Perez had a Cheshire-cat smile on his face “what is it? Thomas†In the short time she had know him she had gotten good at predicting when he wanted to say things even when they were blatantly obvious like now.
“I have seen a potential gain for our Clan.â€
“What potential gain would this be?â€
“Dagda.†He said naming one of the Pentagon Worlds, the first worlds settled by Aleksandr Kerensky’s army before Exodus Civil War and the founding of the Clans by Nicholas Kerensky.
“What about Dagda?â€
“The Nova Cats hold approximately two percent of that world. They have nearly abandoned it, reports suggest that only two Trinaries defend that world.†Thomas said, it made a very tempting target indeed.
“Why would we want it?†Two percent of something was nothing compared to what other clans held, the Stone Rhinos could potentially gain the territory but a bigger Clan would likely move in and take the territory from them just as quickly.
“Well the Smoke Jaguars have a small town nearby to Nova Cat territory and the reports I have read suggest that the Nova Cats have no interest in the world.â€
“It is the Homeworld of the Nova Cat, their Clan’s totem they will defend it.â€
“They have nova cats on other planets, as do all Clan Totems, in-case they loose position on a certain world. If we were to take the Dagda territories we could hit the Smoke Jaguars as well an really ruffle up the ilKhan.†Thomas said, realising that the stone rhino was only bred on Strana Mechty, something his clan would need to rectify for the species to survive, although it was unlikely anything would happen to the Stone Rhinos on Strana Mechty is was not below the other Clans to attack another Clans totem through genetic means as a way of demoralising a Clan‘s warriors.
“What is on Dagda that the Smoke Jaguars would care about?†Elizabeth asked Thomas Perez paused at that then he realised that Elizabeth Radick was not a former Smoke Jaguar, she had been a Wolf before being captured by the Stone Rhinos and proving her real worth.
“The Smoke Jaguars try to hide it but they have a back-up Genetic Respitory on Dagda and an Aerospace training Sibko there.†The Sibkos were the lifeblood of the Clans, they held the future warriors of each Clan before their first Trial, if a Clan lost control of their Sibkos then they would loose the best their training programs could offer in home-grown warriors. “If we capture the Nova Cat territory we could capture those targets as well, it would boost out own Genetic pool and give us a group of future warriors to raise perhaps another full cluster.†Thomas said “and it would piss-off the ilKhan a lot perhaps even pushing him to weaken the Inner Sphere forces to battle us.â€
“We should be careful my Khan, the Smoke Jaguars are still far bigger than us and have more allies. And our main ally just absorbed another Clan, one that had been around since the Foundation, what would stop them going after another Clan? Especially if it was the weakest of all the Clans. Also our grace period is almost over, in one month the other Clans will see our position and strike back.â€
“We will be fine where is your Wolf fighting spirit? The Star Adders will take control of the Inner Sphere worlds in the next two weeks, three on the outside. Our troopers will return home with massive amounts of material gains and we will be able to reinforce out periphery gains as well. Our future is secure.â€
“My Wolf fighting spirit is just fine Khan, however, a Wolf also picks its targets carefully and only strikes when the odds of success out-weigh the odds of failure.†She said cautiously, she knew what was a good target and what was not, soon they would see if this was a good idea.
Nova Cat Watch Base
Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
12th April 3059
The four DropShips made landings at the spaceport and immediately deployed their troops seizing the spaceport and the surrounding streets. Ross sat in his Centurion’s cockpit waiting for the word, a small light lit up on the control panel, Ross punched the control “your Fox’s Teeth ready Captain McKinnon, Quiaff?†Canin Rosse asked through the comm. system.
“Affirmative†Ross answered, he’d heard the Nova Cat warriors talk now and understood their interrogatives.
“Good, they are still unidentified however we estimate they have a battalion of Mechs supported by vehicles and infantry. No fighters detected and one of the DropShips is a civilian design.†Ross sat up straighter why would someone have a civilian DropShip on a raid against a pirate stronghold.
“Civilian?â€
“Aff, it looks like a Monarch-class no armaments, should not be a threat.â€
“A Monarch is a civilian liner, we could have civilian dependants involved here.†Ross said thinking he didn’t like attacking if there was a possibility of a strike against a barely armoured civilian vessel full of civilians.
“If they get dug in at the Spaceport we will not have a chance of prizing them clear without a major fight and possibly WarShip support. I am willing to attack with just my men Captain but I would rather we stuck to the plan.â€
“Neg, I have an idea. We send the Rabid Fox in behind them to secure the back area of the spaceport and the Monarch, their Battle Armour should be able to deal with standard infantry.†He didn’t mention the Battle Armour’s grenade launchers were useless against any armoured targets, something the Clansmen had pointed out at least a dozen times already.
“Along the enemy Mechs will eat them alive.†Canin said not insulting the Battle Armour directly but inferring that even the Rabid Fox troopers, who had impressed several of the Elementals, would be overpowered by any BattleMechs in their Infiltrator suits.
“Aye but if I move my command Lance to the gates and ask them to surrender they will take notice, if they don’t bite I will try to drag them out of the spaceport. If they don’t bite the Rabid Fox will withdraw and we will launch a full out assault.†There was silence over the comm. for several minutes as the Nova Cat commander weighed up the options, Ross hoped that Canin Rosse was one of those Clansmen who wanted to protect the Inner Sphere and not destroy it.
“Agreed, we will try to save the DropShip, I will move my Battle Armour behind the main perimeter walls, if they break free from the port my Elemental’s will be in a prefect position to assist you.†Unlike the Rabid Fox Infiltrator Mk I Battle Armour the Clan Elemental Suits were more than capable of taking out a Mech.
Twenty minutes later Rachel Montgomery had her twelve battle armoured Rabid Fox troopers in position below and around the Monarch the suits stealth armour had hidden them from the enemy sensors, their improved sensors had already proved there were over four hundred soles on-board - the ship was loaded to more than double capacity - if it hadn‘t been for the Infiltrator’s improved scouting capabilities they would never have known about the ships precious cargo.
Ross McKinnon moved his command lance to the main gates and opened a comm. channel to the Spaceports newest owners. “I am Captain Ross McKinnon, Fox’s Teeth Company, Seventh Crucis Lancers Regimental Combat Team, Armed Forces of the Federated Suns. Identify yourselves and why you are on Federated Suns controlled ground.†For the duration of this battle Canin Rosse had agreed that Tortuga Prime would be a Federated Suns world.
“Federated Suns? This is the Tortuga Dominions! You are not in charge here Captain, now drop the act and send out Twyla Sumeral, we need to talk about ownership of this god forsaken rock.â€
“Neg, this is Federated Suns held territory, Twyla Sumeral is dead and I demand you identify yourselves.†Ross said, as a light autocannon burst flew past his cockpit the enemy pilot had been a good shot firing at near extreme range and still only missing by a hair “son-of-a-bitch†Ross cursed firing his Mech’s newly fitted Gauss Rifle, the Mech shuddered slightly under the launch impacting the led Mech, a hunched over eighty-five ton Stalker, square centre in the chest. Because the Mech’s head was low on the body the Gauss slug ripped through the cockpit killing the pilot and dumping the Mech to the ground marking Ross' easiest ever kill.
“What the hell…†someone said as the other Mechs and vehicles froze, Ross acted.
“Rachel secure that DropShip best you can, I want nothing near it. Command Lance continuous fire, drop as many as we can.†With that all four Mechs of the command Lance opened fire together. Subaltern Franklin Thomas’s Dervish fired twenty Long Range Missiles into an enemy Phoenix Hawk, Ross supplemented that with fifteen of his own LRMs, the forty-five ton Machine staggered under the attack but did not go down returning fire with a wildly shot large laser blast. Subaltern Louise Geddes weighed in with her Enforcer’s dual firing Ultra series class-10 heavy autocannon and large pulse laser flooring a sixty-five ton Exterminator, a second burst from the autocannon took that Mech out of the fight permanently. Finally Subaltern Lewis Bradley launched his Blackjack into the air firing his paired Extended-Range Large Lasers taking the leg off a fifty-five ton Shadow Hawk flooring the Mech, as the Blackjack landed he triggered both six-tube streak SRM launchers peppering an enemy Raven with twelve short range missiles, the light Mech went down hard as its armour gave way in several places. “Okay fall back people, let them come to us.†Ross said backing his Mech off, the Command Lance continued to fire taking down another two Mechs as they walked backwards, the enemy troops decided that charging them was a better idea than hoeing up and waiting to be pecked off piece by piece.
As the enemy force began clearing the spaceport Ross watched in horror as the Nova Cat Elementals stood like statues, his mind raced thinking the Nova Cats had suddenly decided to abandoned them but then just as he flicked his comm. system to transmit ready to call in the rest of the company the Nova Cat Elementals acted. Swarming and destroying four enemy Mechs in less than a minute. The enemy troops panicked slightly, Ross' command lance took advantage opening fire with another volley taking down another two enemy Mechs with combined fire. The loss of two more Mechs drove the enemy Mechs crazy and they charged away from the Elementals and from the Command lance straight into a crossfire between the Fox’s Teeth’s scout Lance and the Nova Cats Vehicle Star. Several more Mechs fell however this time there was a price Leftenant Stella Carter’s thirty-five ton Firestarter was torn to pieces by an eighty ton Awesome and a forty-five ton Hatchetman beheaded the Subaltern Calvin Rodriguez’s Commando killing both pilots two of the Nova Cat‘s Svantovit Infantry Support Hovertanks were destroyed in the cross fire. The enemy Mechs charged on into the city firing wildly as they went however trouble was not far away, Canin Rosse and his command star supported by the Fox’s Teeth’s heavy lance comprised of 6 Heavy Mechs and three assault Mechs put the breaks on the invaders. Six Mechs including the assault-class Awesome and were felled in their combine fire several of the enemy vehicles raised their weapons to the sky and shutdown their weapons systems showing they were ready to surrender however the Nova Cats continued to fire, Ross realised as far as the Clansmen were concerned that these invaders were as good as dead unless he did something. “Nova Cats, this is Teeth One, they are ready to surrender hold your fire.â€
“Teeth One, this is Watch One, Neg this is a Trial of Annihilation, they invaded our realm like honourless dogs. If you step in our fire you will be considered enemies of the Nova Cats as well.†The Nova Cat fire had lessened as they spoke and the invading force had ceased firing almost completely, their fate was in the hands of Canin’s and Ross' discussion.
“Watch One, for the duration of this Trial Tortuga is Federated Suns territory. As I have the decision regarding their fate and I say we take prisoners, Quiaff?†Ross said carefully using the Clan interrogative there was dead silence for several minutes as Canin thought through his options, the Clansmen inside him said he should continue to fire but a deal was a deal Ross was right.
“Aff, they are your prisoners Captain, were do you want them?â€
“We return the equipment to one DropShip and the pilots and vehicle crew to another DropShip.†Ross said thinking on the fly, the DropShips could try to escape but the Nova Cat WarShips would destroy them so they made the perfect temporary prison.
“Agreed, enemy force move out or you die. If you power weapons you die, if you stray from the path you die. Move out†Canin said over an open comm. the surviving reinforced battalion of vehicles and Mechs moved out under the guns of the Nova Cats and the remaining Fox’s Teeth.
At the spaceport things hadn’t gone so well the twelve Rabid Fox troopers had assaulted what they thought was a small number of infantry only to find an entire battalion of infantry. The Infiltrator Mk I’s armour had protected them from the murderous return fire but now they were pinned down inside a small hanger their grenade launchers were keeping the infantry at bay but ammo was beginning to run short. “Keep low people, hopefully the Mechs will be back soon and we can drive eliminate these fools.†Rachel said just as a wall exploded trooper Claire Rennie was caught in the explosion and when the other troopers rolled over her body they found half the suit armour had caved in killing the young trooper.
“They better come soon, that was a towed PPC boss, one shot will kill any of us.â€
“Great†Rachel said looking through her suit’s view-port the room was filled with boxes. “Get behind the box’s and away from the walls.â€
“We won’t be able to cover the doorsâ€
“We’re dead if we stay here†she said, the remaining eleven troopers moved behind the boxes and into cover positions just as another PPC blast ripped into the building collapsing another wall narrowly missing one of the Rabid Fox troopers “hell. Teeth One this is Black Box One, we are pinned at the spaceport do you receive?†Rachel asked, since the beginning of the engagement there had been near silence on the comm. channels, it was like they were completely alone. Just then the back wall of the building exploded.
“Holy Shit! We got incoming!†One of the troopers screamed as all the Rabid Fox turned towards the new attacker. Just then ten Elementals walked thorough the hole.
“You Boxes need support?†Star Commander Justin Winters asked as the Elementals entered the room.
“Just a couple of infantry out there, they have set up support weapons.†Rachel said as another PPC blast ripped into the building.
“Very good, this is how you use Battle Armour.†Justin said turning to the Elementals after about thirty seconds five Elementals of the assembled star (twenty-five) stepped forward and into the breach setting up a safe zone outside the building by firing everything they had, Short Range Missiles and Laser blasts tore from the Elementals weapons ripping into the enemy infantry however the return fire killed four of the five troopers, the rest of the Elementals charged forward covered by the first five troopers. Once outside the remaining Elementals walked slowly forward firing their weapons cutting down every assembled enemy trooper Rachel led her remaining troopers out of the building to find utter carnage. On the ground there were over two hundred dead infantry troopers and five dead Elementals, four from the breach-head force and one from the rest of the troopers, the Spaceport control building was a blaze and the Elementals were moving towards the assembled DropShips, all four vessels were beaming their immediate surrender on all channels. Rachel ran up beside Justin Winters.
“Why did only five troopers breach the building?†She asked over the private command channel.
“They were all aging troopers, this was a chance for them to die with honour and in battle before they become to old for front-line duty.†Justin said Rachel suddenly felt quite sick, the Nova Cats had sacrificed four troopers lives just because they were becoming too old to fight, according to what she had read the Nova Cats looked after their old troopers but still it seemed like a cold arbitrary way to end life.
“And what of the surviving trooper?â€
“Elemental trooper Kirsten will be given the chance of a Trial of Position.†Justin said, because she had risked her life to forward the goals of the unit and survived she had proven she was still useful to the Clan, Rachel wondered if she would ever understand the Clans.
Just then the enemy Mechs and vehicles began re-entering the spaceport grounds Rachel was ready for another fight but behind them she could see Star Captain Canin Rosse’s Timber Wolf and Captain Ross McKinnon’s Centurion and she relaxed. The Mechs and Vehicles were herded into the landed Fortress-class DropShip, two points of Elementals moved in as well and, after a could of minutes the pilots and vehicle crews were led out and into another DropShip, a Gazelle. Over the next several minutes the crews of the other vessels were headed into the Gazelle leaving only the Monarch untouched. “Did you discover what is inside the Monarch Leftenant?†Justin asked Rachel over their shared comm.
“Aff, Star Commander.â€
“Good, at least your Battle Armour is not totally useless.†Justin said moving out Rachel thought he was just being an arrogant Clansmen but then realised the Clansmen had just given her Infiltrator a complement, Inner Sphere Battle Armour was around two hundred years behind Clan Battle Armour and a Clansmen had just seen a use for an Inner Sphere Battle Armour design.
After several hours of interrogations the survivors had revealed everything, the enemy force was a mercenary company that had been thought destroyed during the initial Clan invasion nine years before. They had in fact escaped into the deep periphery only to get stuck light-years from everything. Able to finally find their bearings they had planned to enter the Inner Sphere via the Federated Suns after brining down the Tortuga Fusiliers and presenting them to the Federated Suns as a sweetener, mainly to save them from being cashiered by the Federated Suns. According to the survivors the Monarch was filled with the units civilian dependants, something the Clan Elementals had confirmed while onboard.
As the Trial was over their fate was in Canin Rosse’s hands, initially he had wanted to execute them all as a threat to all that invaded the Nova Cats new territory however following a long talk with Ross McKinnon things were being to change in the Nova Cat commander’s mind. “If you put them against a wall and execute them you will be proving only that the Nova Cats are no more civilized than the rest of the Clans and that you are a threat to the Inner Sphere as long as you are here.â€
“I didn’t plan on putting them against a wall, Captain, they would be given a Trial against our forces. If they won they would be allowed to live, if they lost they would be dead already.â€
“Their Mechs are very basic designs, Star Captain, it will be an execution and what of the civilians they cannot fight against your men.â€
“What would you suggest I do?†Canin asked after several minutes Canin answered.
“Tortuga is nearly deserted however there are still some inhabitants. Give the mercenaries and their civilian dependants a choice either they fight a Trial of Execution†Canin shook his head not amused at the name, there was no type of trial, “against your men or they become citizens of Tortuga under Nova Cat stewardship and try to make something of this world.†Ross said, Tortuga was a barren wasteland with little more than five hundred people living there since the Nova Cats had arrived, the inclusion of the mercenaries would give the planet a chance of surviving as an inhabited planet instead of just being a testing ground for new Nova Cat weapons of war.
“I will give them this chance Captain.†Canin said leaving the room. Although none of the mercenaries liked the idea of giving up their weapons none liked the idea of facing the Nova Cats again either, eventually the mercenaries agreed and they were released along with their civilian castes. The Nova Cats offered them supplies however the former mercenaries only took what they could carry in the five flat-bed trucks they had inside their DropShips, the former mercenaries set up camp in several streets on the other side of the city far from any Nova Cat patrol.
Trial of Possession
Stone Rhino Territory, Dagda
Pentagon Worlds, Clan Space
14th April 3059
Thomas Perez had been right about the Nova Cats on Dagda, almost as soon as the Stone Rhinos landed and declared their intentions for the Nova Cat territory the Trinary of troops walked out of their base and the Nova Cat commander asked to speak to the Stone Rhino commander. After an hour of discussion the Nova Cats had accepted a four Stone Rhino BattleMechs and a single Stone Rhino Quad-OmniMech in exchange for their territory, the Nova Cat force had then left the planet without a fight.
Khan Perez’s Overlord-class DropShip landed outside the firebase, the Nova Cats had left virtually nothing in the base, they had obviously been planning to leave for a while and were looking for an excuse, perhaps giving them a Stone Rhino for the base hadn‘t been a good trade, then again it also gave the Stone Rhinos a perfect opportunity to strike the Smoke Jaguars. As the Stone Rhinos moved through the base more troops exited the Overlord, the Khan’s DropShip carried an entire Cluster of Mechs and Thomas saw a need to use this force. Looking out across the plains he could see the Smoke Jaguar territory he spied for take over. Estimates placed an entire cluster at the base and the town nearby, a single cluster to protect a major training facility and a town over twenty percent of the planet, the Smoke Jaguars were far to complacent in their defences or were chasing the dream of the Inner Sphere by neglecting their Homeworld positions. Either way that base would be Stone Rhino by nightfall.
The Jaguars Galaxy Commander broke the Trial into two halves one for the base one for the town. The first trial for the base was drove down to a single star verses star battle Khan Perez wondered why the Smoke Jaguars had lowered the batchall so low but the Stone Rhinos fought and won the battle only to find a group of abandoned buildings, the Smoke Jaguars had obviously abandoned this base several months before. The Trial was a lot larger and harder with the Smoke Jaguars fielding a full Trinary ground troops with a star of fighters in support, the Stone Rhinos fielded a full Binary of Mechs, a Star of Artillery and a four pointed star of aerospace fighters. In a twelve hour battle the Smoke Jaguars had eventually caved as three Stone Rhino, Quad-OmniMechs broke the Smoke Jaguar line by shattering their assault Star.
Observation Lounge
Dock Alpha One, New Syrtis WarShip Shipyards
Capellan March, Federated Suns
16th April 3059
Standing in one of the carnivorous gravity decks at the New Syrtis WarShip Shipyards Victor Steiner-Davion was transfixed inside the bay, beside an under construction Fox-class Corvette, was the Kerensky’s Blues a Clan-built Fredasa-class Corvette. This vessel was not under Clan control however instead this vessel belonged to the recently returned Blue Star Irregulars Mercenary Command. Formerly under the control of Clan Jade Falcon the Kerensky’s Blues had fallen to the Blue Star Irregulars and the Hell’s Black Aces Mercenary Aerospace Regiment in 3055. The Irregulars had kept the Kerensky’s Blues as part of their payment, now with the Federated Suns withdrawing their house forces from the Lyran Alliance the Blue Star Irregulars had also been recalled. With them they had taken the Kerensky’s Blues which the Federated Suns had promised to renovate as best they could. “It’s a shame we couldn’t postpone the assaults on the Smoke Jaguars and Star Adders for a couple more months, having that beauty along would be helpful.†Morgan Hasek-Davion said from the bar in his hand was a small glass of scotch, the Terran variety not the Northwind.
“We should be ready to launch again by the end of the year Marshal, in time for Bulldog if not the initial Birddog Operations.†Colonel Lwai said “although returning us to the Federated Suns only to be thrown at the Smoke Jaguars is a strange way of gratitude.†The Blue Star Irregulars commander like most of the Inner Sphere new nothing of Morgan’s real target - Huntress, Homeworld of the Smoke Jaguars. As far as the rest of the Inner Sphere was concerned Morgan controlled the back up force to Victor’s Task Force Bulldog.
“Actually I have other plans for your Irregulars, Colonel Lwai.†Victor said breaking his eyes away from the Fredasa’s curved armour.
“Sire?â€
“I’m sending you back to the Lyran Alliance/Jade Falcon border with three other mercenary regiments and three Federated Suns RCT making a total of six Mech regiments plus support.†Victor said quietly.
“Sire, forgive me I don’t understand why return us to the Federated Suns if all you plan to do is send us back to the Lyran Alliance.â€
“Several reasons, Colonel. First is your regiments have been stuck on the Clan border for years and deserved a break. Second we are returning all Federated Suns personnel and afflicted Mercenaries to the Suns for rest and refit before we make our next move. Thirdly when you return to the Lyran border it will be under Star League Defence Force contract not Federated Suns or Lyran Alliance.†The Colonel shot Victor a glance, the Blue Star Irregulars had been Star League before the Exodus of Aleksandr Kerensky’s Army, they had chosen to stay and try to defend the principles of the Star League.
“First Price, we have been afflicted with the Federated Suns for centuries, why turn us away with a flick of the wrist?â€
“I have not turned you away Colonel, officially you will be under a year contract with the Star League with an option to become full time Star League Defence Force warriors.†Victor said he noticed the Colonel’s eyes lighten at that obviously it appealed. “Unofficially you will still be under Federated Suns Contract, when the year is up your people will return to the Federated Suns with a land-grant waiting, assuming you agree to these terms?†Victor asked producing a small data pad handing it to the Colonel, who read it carefully the Federated Suns rarely handed out land-grants to mercenaries, unless they were in disputed territories such as Outreach for the Wolf’s Dragoons, but Lwai read it a couple of times if they chose not to rejoin the SLDF then they would be given a permanent Homeworld in the Federated Suns and a world to build on their already impressive size. If they chose to join the SLDF they would also receive a permanent base world protected under the orders of the Star League.
“This is a very generous contract, although the terms are quite high.†The Colonel said.
“Not really if you think about it. The Clan technology your regiments have is high cost to maintain despite the higher damage levels they hand out, we are offering the highest Inner Sphere substitutes. For Clan BattleMechs and OmniMechs we are willing to offer two or three Inner Sphere designs in return, up to and including the latest OmniMech designs. Your command could raise the Avatars of Painful Death from the grave the Jade Falcons sent them to.†Victor said he noticed the Colonel wince, the Blue Star Irregulars had once had three regiments of Mechs, now with the disbanding of the Avatars they were just two with full support of each.
“I will need to contact the other senior members of the Irregulars, First Prince Davion. I cannot give away so much hard won gains just on this offer.â€
“Of course the offer will be open indefinitely. And either way we will fully renovate the Kerensky’s Blues ensuring you are ready for your next spell on the Clan border.â€
“I thank you again First Prince, if you will excuse me.†Victor nodded and the Colonel left the room.
“That was quite an offer.â€
“The benefits outweigh the costs Morgan, any mercenary would jump at the chance. Even if you bring back an entire Regiments worth of Clan tech from Huntress it will be damaged by long battles against your forces. This way we get fully operational Clan weapons and hopefully some Clan bread Omni and BattleMechs we can take to NAIS and reverse engineer, soon the Federated Suns will have OmniMechs that can rival that of the Draconis Combine.†So far the Federated Suns had concentrated on upgrading its vast amount of BattleMechs however the other Successor States all had their own OmniMech programs up and running and the Federated Suns had been forced to buy from them giving potentially hostile nations capital that could be used against them. “Also while we are repairing and renovating the Kerensky’s Blues we can have a look at how the Clans build WarShips improving future Federated Suns projects such as the Durendal or any other project.†He said thinking of the planned Federated Suns Destroyer that had never gotten off the paperwork although as he thought of it more the Federated Suns had another option which would likely sink the Durendal project permanently.
“The warrior comes of age, your father would be proud†Morgan said laying his hand on Victor’s shoulder. Victor had always been a MechWarrior and battlefield commander first, a politician and leader a distant second. This had won him massive support in the militaries of the Federated Suns and the Lyran Alliance however it had broken the Federated Commonwealth by giving his sister Katherine the chance to take the Lyran half of the realm.
“No he wouldn’t Morgan, his dream was the Inner Sphere, the Federated Commonwealth was the beginning of his dream realised now it is dead.†Victor said looking again out the window at the Fredasa - the Clans really did know their technology.
“The Star League could be a vessel for that dream.†Morgan said, the idea of using the Star League to forward his own goals had already come to Victor a couple of times but he could not let that happen. If he used the Star League then others would and it would be worthless and tarnish the honour of the first League turning the Clans even more against them.
“No, I will not use the Star League more than I have. Things will go the way they were supposed to from now on. If others use the Star League in the wrong way then we will be able to take the high ground against them.â€
“You think others will use it?â€
“Aye, if Katherine or Sun-Tzu gets hold of the First Lordship then we will have trouble.†Victor said putting one of his family members in the same sentence as Sun-Tzu Liao was hard but Katherine was trouble, that he was sure, if he had to her downfall would be his next war. For now there was the Smoke Jaguars and Star Adders.
“Any news on the Fox’s Teeth and Tortuga?†Morgan asked, he had been on Defiance for the last six months with Serpent it was possible he didn’t know about the Fox’s Teeth current status however unlikely, he was still the Federated Suns Marshal of Armies.
“Nothing out of Tortuga at all, no raiding parties, no grand announcement of McKinnon’s capture not a word.â€
“Anything on ComStar’s claim?†Morgan asked, he knew of ComStar’s claim that the Nova Cats were in Tortuga but had a tough time believing it, what would a Clan want with the Tortuga Dominions or anything in that region of space.
“Nothing. Jackson is at Hadrian’s Command and he says things are ahead of schedule, even though things here and at Galax are over a year behind because of it.â€
“I think having Hadrian’s Charges to defend New Avalon will make us all feel better, from what ComStar has provided on the Nova Cats they are a powerful naval Clan.â€
“Aye, what ComStar has provided…†Victor said Morgan detected something in his voice, the Prince had always been quite vocal in his support for ComStar and his friendship with the current Precentor Martial.
“What is it?â€
“I’ve been thinking about ComStar’s past. They have manipulated the Inner Sphere for centuries then they have a realisation, a group splits from their cause and they decide to provide the Inner Sphere with anything it asks for.â€
“And that’s a problem?†Morgan asked looking around “Fredrick knows what he is doing and I don’t think he would do anything to betray us or even Katherine.†Morgan said mentioning Victor’s cousin, rarely did they speak about it but Anastasius Focht was actually Fredrick Steiner Victor’s distant cousin. Fredrick had been thought dead during the Fourth Succession War but in a deal made between Fredrick, Theodore Kurita and ComStar he had become ComStar’s Military Warlord and successfully stopped the Clans on Tukayyid becoming a hero across the Inner Sphere.
“Perhaps it is beyond his control. Think about it, if we had turned Serpent against Tortuga and found only pirates there Sun-Tzu would have stirred up the Taurian Concordat and Magistracy of Canopus saying that the Star League was looking to conqueror the Periphery for the Inner Sphere which would have ignited another Reunification War which would have devastated the Star League and the Federated Suns, perhaps the Free Worlds League if the Canopians decided to punish them as well.â€
“The rest of the Inner Sphere would devastate both periphery realms…†Morgan said quietly seeing ComStar’s strategy to destroy two Successor States and the two most powerful Periphery realms.
“And anyone that didn’t get involved would still have the Clans holding down their forces allowing ComStar to do what it wanted, Fredrick disappears and ComStar easily seizes the Free Rasalhague Republic - things spiral out of control ‘the breakaway’ Word of Blake return to the fold and the Inner Sphere is in serious trouble.†Victor said outlining the doomsday scenario he had been thinking about, he noticed his Marshal of Armies eyes widen as he explained what he though could happen if things went wrong, very wrong. “We cannot act against Tortuga unless we find proof of trouble there, the Fox’s Teeth whatever has happened to them are on their own. Once Serpent and Bulldog are over with maybe we can look at the Tortuga situation but make it a Federated Suns operation only, complete deniability if things go wrong or we find nothing.â€
“Hadrian’s charges?†Morgan asked the charges had more than enough firepower to defend New Avalon or be used offensively and no-one knew anything about
-
“Perhaps but for another day, you need to get back to Defiance and I need to begin meeting with Bulldog’s commanders, it is time we brought the Smoke Jaguars to their knees, good luck my friend.†Victor said shaking Morgan’s hand the big man smiled.
“Thank you sire and good luck to us all.†both men turned to the Fredasa one last time “and Victor, your father would be a very proud man.†He said as both men left the observation lounge. Fourteen days later the Blue Star Irregulars signed the contract with the SLDF and the Federated Suns and the long process of rebuilding their units began. The Irregulars would keep hold to roughly two companies of Clan machines for command Mechs and the rest would go to the Federated Suns, in all around six companies of Clan machines and over two thousand tons worth of weapons and spares, in return the Irregulars would get around double as much of the most advanced Federated Suns tech including several brand new Rotary Autocannons, a purely Federated Suns invention that could fire six shots in the time it took a regular Mech to fire one.
-
Command Integrated Control Centre (CIC)
CSWS Invisible Truth (Cameron-class Battle-cruiser)
Defiance, Crucis March, Federated Suns
1st May 3059
Standing at the back of the bridge of the Invisible Truth Morgan Hasek-Davion watched the ComStar crew carry out their duties as the eight hundred-and-sixty ton Cameron-class Battle-cruiser approached the Nadir point of the Defiance system. “Sir, all ships in position ready for jump on your command.†Commodore Allan Beresick said walking across to Morgan it had been Precentor Beresick until a few months ago, and probably would be again following Serpent, but for now Beresick was commander of the Task Forces naval contingent.
“Very good, Commodore inform the Flotilla when we are ready to jump and start the clock.†Morgan said Looking at the screens he saw eight WarShips, twenty-two JumpShips, one hundred-and two DropShips and countless thousand ground troops were ready to begin their year long trek into the deep and journey to the Clan Homeworlds. The longest strike behind enemy lines ever in the history of man, not counting the Wolf Dragoons undercover spy mission against the Inner Sphere since they worked for the Inner Sphere and eventually turned away from the Clans helping the Inner Sphere stop the invasion.
“Signal the fleet, Ready to jump†Beresick said then with a moments pause “jump in sequence†the order was given first were the Ranger, a Lola III-class Destroyer and the Starlight and Emerald, two Essex-class Destroyers they would be the forward recon force of the fleet and would hold off any enemy force if one was encountered. The rest of the force jumped in small groups soon after beginning Serpent’s year long journey to the Clan Homeworlds.
Observation Lounge, Gravity Deck
FSS Intrepid (Fox-class Corvette), Nadir Point
Luthien, Draconis Combine
13th May 3059
Standing aboard the FSS Intrepid Commanding-General Victor Steiner-Davion watched as several JumpShips disappeared jumping to nearby systems. Entering the Clan Occupation Zone’s via pirate points and drop onto the occupied planets setting up resistance cells and preparing for the initial invasion to begin in seven days. Named Operation Bird Dog this none of the units involved were bigger than company in strength and each was armed with the latest Clan and Inner Sphere OmniMechs.
“Soon the Clans will see what they have awakened, the Dragon and its allies still have a strong bite.†Hohiro Kurita said, his presence onboard the WarShip marked a special point in history, he was the first member of the Draconis Combine royal family ever to be on a Federated Suns WarShip, at least as a guest and not a prisoner.
“The Star League Defence Force is where the Clans originate from they will understand that the Inner Sphere means business.†Victor said, he just hoped that the Ghost Bears, Wolves and Jade Falcons did not join the fleet or things would turn very bloody quickly. It was worrying enough that they were taking on two possibly three Clans if news of the Stone Rhino involvement was found to be true.
“I have total confidence in the people selected for this battle and the person chosen to led this battle. Victor, the entire Draconis Combine is behind you.â€
“And hopefully behind me also†another said from behind, approaching was Anastasius Focht ComStar’s commander and deputy commander of this Operation, and Kai Allard-Liao, Duke of St Ives.
“Of course, we are behind ComStar Precentor Martial, we have total confidence in your troops also. Duke Allard-Liao I assumed you were involved with Bird Dog.†Hohiro said turning to Kai, he was the youngest one here and also perhaps the most gifted MechWarrior in the entire Inner Sphere, a former Champion of Solaris VII he was also a strong friend to Victor.
“I am, Coordinator, I just came to see the Commanding-General and to wish him luck. I’ll see you on the other side Victor.â€
“And you Kai, keep safe my friend.†the two shook hands and Kai left the command deck of the Intrepid.
ilKhan Lincoln Osis Office
Hall of the Khans, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
18th May 3059
Unfortunately for the ilKhan the Smoke Jaguars were not taking their revenge on the upstart Stone Rhinos as he had planned, and the Smoke Jaguars had still failed to find the Nova Cats new Homeworlds. Instead the Smoke Jaguar’s Inner Sphere Occupation Zone was in turmoil with at least a dozen Inner Sphere companies stirring up problems on several worlds. Thousands of tons of supplies had been destroyed and two Inner Sphere worlds had completely revolted over Smoke Jaguar occupation. The ilKhan was having to commit more and more of his Clans troops to crowd control instead of planning strikes against the Star Adders or against the Inner Sphere.
Operation Bulldog Wave One
Smoke Jaguar/Star Adder Occupation Zone
Draconis Combine
20th May 3059
The Military might of the Inner Sphere turned on the Clans like a whirlwind striking the Draconis Combine Mustard Society (DCMS) ground forces alone targeted five of the Clan occupied worlds Hyner, Port Arthur, Tarazed, Kiamba and Asgard. While SLDF units from throughout the Inner Sphere targeted a further nine controlled by the Star Adders.
The Star Adders put up a far stronger resistance than the Smoke Jaguars and the SLDF were thrown from all but two of the worlds. Two ComStar WarShips, the Strength Through Adversity a Lola-III class destroyer and the Hammerstrike an Essex-class Destroyer were destroyed over Teniente by the Star Adders at the cost of the Vicious Fang, a Fredasa-class Corvette and the Pompeii, a Volga-class transport.
The Draconis Combine lost two vessels the Night of Agony and the Swiping Claw both Inazuma-class Corvettes over Tarazed while disabling the Smoke Jaguar Fire Crest, a Congress-class Frigate long enough for SLDF Battle Armoured Marines to board the vessel overpower the crew and secure the Fire Crest as an SLDF vessel.
Three days into Bulldog the First Sword of Light Regiment of the DCMS had secured Hyner destroying the Third Jaguar Cavaliers in the process. Port Arthur, Tarazed and Kiamba fell within a week to DCMS troops with support from the Wolf Dragoons, Clan Wolf (in-Exile) and ComStar. Only Asgard put up any resistance however it too fell by the 27th May.
The other seven planets previously targeted were hit again by the SLDF/DCMS forces however the fighting bogged down and Wave One did not end until June 4th by this point the SLDF had captured all Wave One worlds but at a cost - six regiments worth of BattleMech troops destroyed mostly by Clan Star Adder forces.
-
Clan Hell’s Horse Territory
Eden, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
14th June 3059
Throughout the Clan Homeworlds in both the Kerensky Cluster and the Pentagon worlds there had been reports of increased bandit activity and bandits using a mix of inner sphere and clan technology as well as new types of Mechs and armour never seen before. Three days before a Hell’s Horses research colony had been sacked, over a dozen scientists had been taken and three years worth of work had been taken.
In response the 412th Strike Cluster of Kappa Galaxy had been deployed to hunt down and destroy these dark caste dezgra, dishonoured. The 412th was mainly a garrison unit with combat vehicles, Elementals and standard infantry as the norm supported by a single star of light Mechs. The Three trinaries searched for two full weeks and found nothing in Hell’s Horses territory.
Gaining rights to search nearby Wolf territory they were crossing Radick Bridge which crossed a canyon into Wolf territory when the mysterious raiders attacked. Instead of attacking the Hell’s Horses directly they attacked the bridge’s supports on the Hell’s Horses side with their Battle Armour forces while combat vehicles kept the Hell’s Horses cluster back. On the Wolf side a star of Mechs led by an Inner Sphere built Panther attacked and destroyed four of the five defending Wolf Mechs and pushed the other Mech over the edge of the canyon. With the Hell’s Horses cluster pinned on the bridge the raiders detonated charges around the support of the bridge dropping it into the canyon killing everyone of the Hell’s Horses troopers. The Raiders did not even bother to take salvage from the battle instead they launched several volleys of missiles into the canyon ensuring there were no survivors then left the area without another word.
In the Clan council Clan Hell’s Horse and Clan Wolf came to blows over the loss of the Hell’s Horses Cluster as the truth over the 412th’s destruction was deliberated. Only gun camera footage salvaged from one of the destroyed Wolf Mechs proved that the Wolves did not attack the Hell’s Horses troops.
Harvest Trials, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
1st July 3059
In an effort to boost troops assigned to the Inner Sphere Clans Jade Falcon, Wolf, Smoke Jaguar and Ghost Bear begin to fight a series of trials against the Homeworld Clans. Every one of these Harvest Trials decides the fate of several hundred troops of the Homeworld Clans, if the Invading Clans win these troops become members of the Invading Clans weakening the Homeworld Clans but strengthening the Clans. If the Homeworld Clans lose the Homeworld Clans gain something from the Invaders - mainly resources from the Inner Sphere or Warden troops.
Operation Bulldog Wave Two
Smoke Jaguar/Star Adder Occupation Zone
Draconis Combine
4th July 3059
The leaders of the SLDF Coalition met aboard the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) WarShip Werewolf, a McKenna-class Battleship. The Werewolf had not gotten involved directly in the fighting and was unofficially there to support the SLDF forces just in case something went seriously wrong. The Clans were barely restrained with the Wolf (in-Exile) Clans adjournment from Clan Society and the Homeworlds. If the Clans believed that the Wolf (in-Exile) Clan was helping the Inner Sphere annihilate them one by one the Wolves in the Lyran Alliance would find themselves under heavy attack.
“Wave One was a success, we captured all our targets and the Smoke Jaguars are barely putting up a fight as we expected Bird Dog destroyed large swaths of their support structure and the infighting between the Jaguars and Star Adders has taken much of their fight.†Marshal Arden Sortek of the Federated Suns said, Arden had been Victor’s friend and ally for years, he’d known his father Hanse Davion before and that loyalty had transferred, however the two were also close friends as well, a bond created through combat. In recent years Arden had served as the Federated Commonwealth, then the Federated Suns, representative to the Star League Defence Force Advisory Council.
“The Star Adders are putting up a far stronger fight than expected however.†Kai said, his First St Ives Lancers had lost an entire Battalions worth of their troops, a full third of their strength, although Battlefield salvage would give them back roughly two companies of equipment warriors were harder to come by.
“How much of a delay are we looking at?†Victor asked
“We are looking at a week delay until most regiments are close to combat readiness†Hohiro Kurita said.
“A week at least, two of our WarShips have been sent back to Terra for major overhaul. It will take a few days for us to reorganise the fleet to cover our ground forces more effectively.†Anastasius Focht said, the loss of two WarShips in wave one had made ComStar far more cautious not to mention ComStar were seriously worried about security of the Terran shipyards as well.
“So we will post-pone Wave Two for ten days.†Victor said pushing the timetable back slightly was not great but it gave the troops time to re-arm and refit, his own Tenth Lyran Guards RCT had lost only a company but other troops hadn’t been so lucky.
Operation Bulldog Wave Two
Smoke Jaguar/Star Adder Occupation Zone
Draconis Combine
15th July 3059
The next wave began on the new schedule with SLDF and DCMS forces surging forward once more. Turtle Bay and Almunge were left undefended by their Clan Occupiers and fell without battle to DCMS forces. Avon however was another story. In orbit they found the destroyed twisted remains of an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser and a scuttled York-class Destroyer/Carrier showed the Inner Sphere that the Clans had fought long and hard over this world and would continue to do so.
Cutting back on the amount of worlds targets in this wave Victor Steiner-Davion moved his own Tenth Lyran Guards RCT, the First and Second Genyosha and the Twenty-second Benjamin Regiments of the DCMS, the Northwind Hussars, Wolf’s Dragoons Spider Battalion and three ComStar Divisions to Avon ensuring victory for the SLDF forces. The DCMS Second Genyosha was forced to retire from battle with heavy damage and the Northwind Highlanders lost nearly a full battalion of troops however the most devastating losses was the Twenty-Second Benjamin Regulars Regiment which were destroyed nearly to the man and the Ninth ComGuard Division which was folded into other units following the loss of their commander. Later it would be decided that the Division would remain deactivated for the foreseeable future.
Caripare another Star Adder/Smoke Jaguar world fell in fourteen days in orbit a Fredasa-class Corvette, the Broken Claw, belonging to Clan Smoke Jaguar was disabled. The Smoke Jaguars quickly withdrew from battle instead of being destroyed.
Byesville and Hanover were both hit by heavy SLDF and DCMS forces and quickly captured as the Smoke Jaguars withdrew quickly and the Star Adders fought honour duels for their territory - this was only possible following an intervention by Khan Phelan Kell of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) who informed the Star Adders that the SLDF wanted to fight honourable battles limiting damage to both sides.
Yamarovka, Virentoften, Nykvarn and Labrea were tough battles not a single Smoke Jaguar warrior escaped these worlds fighting to the death a total of two Galaxies. Six clusters of warriors, nearly fifteen hundred Clansmen and women died on these worlds taking with them Kinston’s Rangers, a Capellan Regiment on Nykvarn and the Sixth An Tang Legion, a Draconis Combine Regiment on Labrea.
-
Werewolf (McKenna-class Battleship)
Smoke Jaguar/Star Adder Occupation Zone
Itabaiana, Draconis Combine
25th July 3059
When the Werewolf had entered the Itabaiana system on the 22nd July the two Star Adder WarShips defending the system moved to engage, however, Khan Phelan Kell informed them he wanted to speak with Khan Cassius N’Buta only and if the Star Adders attacked they would be met with deadly force and the entire Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Touman would mobilise against them with the Star Adders treated as dezgra. The Star Adder Khan arrived the next day with the Absolute Truth, a Nightlord-class Battleship, the vessel was as powerful as the Werewolf. The Star Adder’s were taking no chances, although the other two WarShips did jump away to assist other worlds.
“My Khan, the Star Adder Khan is willing to talk.†One of the bridge techs said on the bridge Phelan Kell crossed the bridge and activated the communication system, Khan Cassius N’Buta appeared “Khan N’Buta, thank you for answering this call promptly.â€
“Khan Ward, may we speak privately?†N’Buta asked raising a headset over his head Phelan did the same. “Khan Ward, I wonder why your Clan is here with these Spheroids. This is a battle between them and us why are you here?†He said, Phelan noted he still used Phelan’s official Bloodname and not his Inner Sphere family name. Officially Phelan although born in the Inner Sphere had been able to win a Bloodname, the Ward Bloodname due to a strong link between the Kell and Ward families during the Star League-era. When he had been sent to the Inner Sphere with the Wardens of Clan Wolf by then-ilKhan Ulric Kerensky the Clan grand council had stripped him of the Ward Bloodname, Ulric had already foreseen this and as ilKhan had created the Kell Bloodhouse, although no other Clan acknowledged it and there was only one member.
“My Clan’s mandate is to protect the Inner Sphere. The Smoke Jaguars were willing to use orbital bombardment to control the Inner Sphere, and once the Tukayyid Truce is over the Clans will assault the Inner Sphere en masse once more. This fight is designed to show the Clans that if you assault the Inner Sphere en masse and if you use weapons that even the Inner Sphere have outlawed then you will pay the price.†Phelan said he could see Cassius N’Buta think about it for a moment then dismiss it.
“So you would destroy another Clan just to prove your point? That the Inner Sphere is not scared of the Clans any longer.â€
“No, the Inner Sphere will always be afraid of the Clans. We would do this to prove there is a line that the Clans cannot cross, and if they do there is a price.†Kell said “let me put it this way Khan N’Buta, the Inner Sphere does not want to fight more than one Clan in this battle. The Smoke Jaguars are the target, they always have been, I am here to offer your Clan honour battles against the Inner Sphere factions. If you win you will be able to maintain your foothold in the Inner Sphere, if you lose you will leave, Safcon will be guaranteed to all your troops.†Cassius looked at Phelan and realised something.
“Khan Phelan Kell†he said using Phelan’s birth name for the first time “you are here without the Inner Sphere’s knowledge, Quiaff?â€
“Aff†Phelan said, there was no point in denying it, he had come here on his own without support and without informing the rest of the SLDF force.
“Why?â€
“It was the honourable way to do it, would you rather negotiate with a surat like Victor Steiner-Davion?†Phelan asked he tried to keep as much venom in his voice as possible while he spoke about his cousin like that but it was not easy it surprised him in the past such venom would have come so easy.
“Neg, I am honoured that you would personally come here and inform me of your plans.†He noticed Phelan’s confusion “do not try to deny it Khan Kell, you have your own plans for the Inner Sphere. You play their saviour now but the Wolf that Ulric Kerensky saw in you is not dead, it is just biding its time.â€
“Perhaps, do we have a deal?â€
“Neg†Cassius said Phelan’s heart sank, this had been for nothing. “I have a better idea, you want to do this the honourable way, Quiaff?†Phelan nodded “then your command trinary meet mine on this systems planet in six days. If you win the Star Adders will withdraw from all worlds the Smoke Jaguars gifted to us and will withdraw from all words we hold in the Inner Sphere without battle. If I win the Star Adders will not only resist but actively start hunting down these Stavag Spheroid dogs. And your forces will withdraw from battle.†Phelan was silent for a moment, perhaps talking to Victor about this would have been a good idea. He thought quietly, a chance to throw the Star Adders out with one battle was too much to pass up however, all he had to do was win.
“Agreed. I will transmit my command’s equipment and codex information.†Phelan offered, it was Clan tradition.
“Aff, and I will transmit mine. It is good to see the Exiled Wolves have not lost their cunning in the Inner Sphere. Now lets see if they still have their bite.†And with that he was gone, the Absolute Truth began to turn and head for the planet.
“Helm officer, follow the Absolute Truth to the inhabited planet of this system. Communications find me Victor Steiner-Davion.†He said raising from the console. The Werewolf began to follow the Nightlord, two of the most powerful vessels ever created by man travelling through the deep they looked relatively harmless.
Within minutes the Werewolf HPG operators had found a ComStar vessel in communication range of Victor Steiner-Davion and set up a link between the Commanding-General’s command and the Wolf flagship. “Commanding-General†Phelan greeted, Victor seeing Phelan still wearing a headset picked up one of his own.
“This is quite a surprise Phelan, is there a problem?â€
“Possibly.†If I lose, which isn’t going to happen, he thought “I just talked with Cassius N’Buta, Khan of Clan Star Adder. We arranged an honour trial that will decide the Star Adders involvement in all future battles.â€
“Give me a location and I will have the best troops I can there as soon as possible.â€
“Neg, Victor, the trial is Khan N’Buta’s command Trinary against my own. If I win the Star Adders will cease all resistance on the planets they are fighting and withdraw to the worlds they hold solely.â€
“And if they win?â€
“The Star Adders will intensify their resistance and they will begin launching full counter-strikes. And my forces will withdraw fully from Bulldog.â€
“You better not lose, Phelan, or your Wolves could find themselves in trouble in the future.†Victor warned Phelan making sure that Phelan realised that if he lost and the Star Adders resisted the whole Bulldog Operation could fail and thousands could die, infuriating the Inner Sphere enough for them to turn on Clan Wolf (in-Exile) in the Lyran Alliance.
“I know what will happen if I fail, and that will not happen.â€
“Good luck my friend.â€
“Thank you Commanding-General, Werewolf out.†Phelan said and the techs cut the communication system, Phelan headed out to find his command Keshik, time to tell them the weight of the Inner Sphere was on them.
Smoke Jaguar Counter-strike
Pesht Capital City, Pesht District
Draconis Combine
28th July 3059
With the Star League Defence Force troops resting from combat just before the start of Wave Three of Operation Bulldog Clan Smoke Jaguar made one last desperate throw of the dice launching their own counter-offensive not only at worlds they had lost but also at new targets. Five worlds of the Draconis Combine came under fire Pesht, a district capital, McAlister, a major supply base, Matamoras, Meinacos and Lonaconing.
Here on Pesht the Smoke Jaguars had not even looked to engage the SLDF troops instead they had gone to ground almost immediately in cities across the planet and were fighting close-quarters battles across the planet using scorched-earth tactics in a desperate attempt to break the planets will to resist. The DCMS Elite Seventh Sword of Light Regiment and Ryuken-san were joined by the First Kell Hounds Regiment First Battalion and Clan Wolf (in-Exiles) Second Wolf Legion Cluster while in orbit a pair of Smoke Jaguar Vincent Mk-42-class Corvettes, the Simas Osis and the Vulture Beast, faced off against ComStar’s Lola-III Destroyer, the Blake’s Vision, and Clan Wolf (in-Exile’s) Valiant, another Vincent Mk-42.
On the ground at Pesht the Kell Hounds and Wolf Legion stood up to the Smoke Jaguars while the two Elite DCMS regiments surrounded the Smoke Jaguars and annihilated them to the man, eighteen city blocks and nearly ten thousand civilians were killed in the fighting. In orbit the two Smoke Jaguar vessels were disabled in a short but bloody battle with the Blake’s Vision destroyed and the Valiant loosing its K-F Core and unable to leave the system, Clan Wolf (in-Exile) was already looking to salvage one of the disabled WarShips for compensation because everyone else was heavily involved in battling the ground forces no-one stopped the Exiles salvaging the Corvette.
On McAlister the Smoke Jaguars did considerable damaged briefly holding the world before the Davion Heavy Guards of the Federated Suns, First Genyosha of the DCMS and First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry of the Capellan Confederation arrived and crushed all Smoke Jaguar resistance.
On the other worlds the SLDF was able to contain the Smoke Jaguar force stopping major damage and stopping the Jaguar counter-strike.
Operation Bulldog, Star Adder Occupation Zone
Plains of Itabaiana, Northern Continent
Itabaiana, Draconis Combine
31st July 3059
Walking his Linebacker OmniMech over the battlefield Khan Phelan Kell surveyed the destruction. Following six hours there was little left of either the Star Adder Trinary or his own Keshik. Wolf and Adder medical teams and security Elementals had arrived and were evacuating any survivors. Phelan glanced at the downed ninety ton Kingfisher, the Mech of Khan Cassius N’Buta. Phelan normally piloted a light Mech but because of the Star Adder’s choice of Mech he had picked the heavier sixty-five ton Linebacker, a popular OmniMech inside the Wolf (in-Exile) Touman.
The fight had gone well for the Wolves, the entire trial had been fought using full Zellbrigen duelling rules, with both Clan forces respecting each other and fighting until they risked shutdown of their Mechs. Cassius N’Buta had signalled out Phelan early on damaging the Wolf Mech’s left leg impairing the Mechs movement, however the lighter Wolf Mech still had the edge in manoeuvrability and Phelan had been able to keep to massive Adder Kingfisher at long range as he sniped away at the assault OmniMech with PPCs and LRMs. Even when the Kingfisher had been able to close it had been easy for Phelan to finish off the Adder Mech with a full alpha strike.
Dismounting from his Linebacker Phelan pulled on some coveralls and walked over to the Adder Mech Cassius N’Buta was leaning against the assault Mech’s left foot as a medic attended to his injuries. “That was well fought Khan N’Buta, you did your Clan proud today.†Phelan said Cassius shooed the medic away, this would concern only them.
“And you Khan Kell, you did your Clan well today as well. If I had beaten you I believe you would make a grand Adder Warrior, however we have seen what happens when a Spheroid joins the leadership of a Clan.†Cassius said standing up, pain crossed his face and he reached up to his left shoulder with his right hand.
“I am a Wolf warrior, Khan N’Buta, there is no other path for me. This trial is at an end, you and your warriors are free to return to your Clan.†Phelan said, he noticed Cassius surprise, traditionally the victor of a Trial could take bondsmen from the looser improving their Clan by absorbing superior warriors. “If I take the Star Adders here today as bondmen to Clan Wolf then our agreement would not carry much weight at the ground council. I am willing to allow you to take your warriors and your equipment and rejoin your WarShip in orbit, assuming our agreement stands.â€
“It stands Khan Phelan Kell. Your people fought like true Clan warriors today, I cannot fault your prowess on the field. I will order all Star Adders to withdraw from the worlds we hold solely and those held with the Smoke Jaguars as agreed.â€
“Seyla†Phelan said.
“Seyla†Cassius muttered quietly. Phelan nodded to the Star Adder Khan then headed back towards the Linebacker. “Khan Kell!†Phelan turned to look at the Star Adder Khan “this is not the end of the Star Adder Clan and its dealings with the Inner Sphere, we will be back.â€
“I would be disappointed if it were the end of the threat you pose the Star Adders are a powerful adversary. I would hate to think you would give up on this fight so easily, we will meet in battle again this I am sure.†Phelan said returning to the silent Linebacker.
“And we are not completely gone yet either†Cassius said quietly smiling, although he had agreed to leave worlds held by the Star Adders he had said nothing about the worlds the Stone Rhino’s held in stewardship, the Star Adder foothold in the Inner Sphere was still intact even with the result of this trial.
-
Wardroom
Absolute Truth (Nightlord-class Battleship)
Star Adder/Smoke Jaguar Occupation Zone
3rd August 3059
The evacuation of Clan Star Adder forces was going well with little trouble erupting between Clan forces leaving and Inner Sphere forces arriving, this had been made easier by the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) forces landing with the Inner Sphere troops officially taking the worlds from the Star Adders, Cassius hated to admit it but the Clan Wolf troops worked extremely well with their Inner Sphere counterparts. Clan Stone Rhino’s Khan, Thomas Perez, had agreed to hold the three worlds his Clan controlled until all the Star Adders left then allow the Star Adders to return and reclaim them all easily, this allowed the Star Adders to for fill the trial requirements but maintain a foothold in the Inner Sphere. IlKhan Lincoln Osis however had not been so gracious and ordered the Star Adder Khan to explain to the Grand Council why his forces were abandoning their positions.
This had led to this HPG conference of the Grand Council. The entire Wardroom screen was filled by ilKhan Lincoln Osis face, which looked redder than normal “Khan Cassius N’Buta in your own time please explain to this Grand Council why your troops are abandoning their positions and the Clan they were activated to support!†Cassius failed to suppress the smile on his face. “And please explain what you find amusing and why I should not declare a Trial of Grievance against your entire Clan.†Cassius tried to re-establish his calm.
“Three days ago my Command Trinary and the Command Trinary of Khan Phelan Kell of Clan Wolf…†Cassius began only to be interrupted by Khan Vlad Ward, leader of the true Clan Wolf.
“That Stavag dog does not represent Clan Wolf Khan Star Adder, surely you have made an error!â€
“Aff, I apologies Khan Wolf†Cassius said rephrasing what he was going to say “three days ago I met the freebirth Khan of the Exiles, Phelan Kell, in battle. Phelan informed me that this Trial the Inner Sphere had launched against our occupation was directly targeted on Clan Smoke Jaguar and that if I wished I could excavate the Star Adder forces with a single trial.†Cassius paused “I informed the Exile that if the Star Adders were victorious then the entire Inner Sphere would feel our retribution and that his Exiles would withdraw from combat, unfortunately the Exiles were victorious.â€
“So this is not a battle against all the Clans, Quineg?†Marthe Pryde, Khan of Clan Jade Falcon asked.
“Neg, they have selected the Smoke Jaguars due to their brutality and their use of Orbital bombardment to control their occupied population. As far as the Inner Sphere is concerned this battle is to show that if we break the rules we will pay the price. The Smoke Jaguars brutalized their population for centuries causing the Stone Rhinos to split, now they have done the same in the Inner Sphere and become a target of the Inner Sphere’s Retribution. Since the Star Adders have been caught up in this fight they have given us an opportunity of Safcon, I as Khan of Clan Star Adder have taken it.â€
“It is as we have been saying Lincoln Osis, this is on your Clan’s head not ours. We will not throw our forces at the Inner Sphere meat grinder just to save your sorry behinds.†Vlad Ward said smiling leaning back in her chair.
“I am the ilKhan of the Khans you will answer to my orders Khan Ward.â€
“Neg, we will not, the invasion of the Inner Sphere ended when the Clans failed at Tukayyid, we need no ilKhan.†Marthe Pryde said there was a call from the Ghost Bear, Wolf, Stone Rhino and Nova Cat Clans supporting this call, the Smoke Jaguars would loose this debate. Although the ilKhan fought his case, and his Clan’s case, for another six hours the decision was nearly unanimous. The Smoke Jaguars would fight and live or die alone at the hands of the Inner Sphere.
Operation Bulldog Wave Three
Smoke Jaguar Occupation Zone
16th August 3059
With the Smoke Jaguar Counter-Assaults contained, resistance from isolated Smoke Jaguars contained on worlds already liberated and Star Adder forces moving out of the Inner Sphere without a fight due to their agreement with Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Task Force Bulldog moved quickly onto its third wave.
This wave however was proving to be the toughest, the Smoke Jaguars had received reinforcements from their Homeworlds and the occupied periphery more WarShips had also arrived. The first evidence of this was shown on the 12th August. The Third Davion Guards RCT, the 208th ComGuard Division and the DCMS Ryuken-roku Regiment were tasked to take a supply dump from two garrison clusters of Clan Smoke Jaguar on the planet Luzerne, this assault already a month behind schedule used a pirate point in the system to enter closer to the planet however as the assault force entered the system they were confronted by two Smoke Jaguar vessels a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser and a Fredasa-class Corvette.
The Escorting DCMS Inazuma-class Corvette DCS Winds of Heaven, the Kyushu-class Frigate Draconis Rift and the Federated Suns Fox-class Corvette FSS Indomitable all broke into attack. While the Black Lion engaged the WarShips the Fredasa ignored them broke through the WarShip’s defensive line with its superior speed and engaged the three ground forces regiments DropShips while still in transit towards the planet over half of the troops were destroyed or disabled in space before they could even land with twenty-two DropShips disabled or destroyed in space by the Corvette, its fighters and DropShip.
Although in the coming battle the Indomitable was able to destroy the Fredasa, all three vessels were able to force the Black Lion to flee after heavy damage the Winds of Heaven was destroyed in the encounter and both the Draconis Rift and the Indomitable received a pounding in the battle forcing both to withdraw from the system and the field of battle completely until major repair and refit operations could be carried out at a major shipyard.
Upon hearing of this debacle Victor Steiner-Davion deployed another Division of ComStar, the Davion Light Guards and two Regiments of the DCMS Night Stalkers Regiments. Unfortunately even with these reinforcements arriving the SLDF force found itself facing an entire Elite Front-Line Galaxy of Smoke Jaguar troops looking for blood. The Battle of Luzerne would be the bloodiest of the entire Bulldog campaign with the Third Night Stalkers completely destroyed and both the Third Davion Guards and the 208th ComGuard Divisions both taking over fifty percent non-recoverable losses each, both units were stood down on Luzerne until the end of the campaign.
Main Briefing Hall
Werewolf (McKenna-class Battleship)
Turtle Bay, Draconis Combine
28th August 3059
The rest of Wave three continued almost as planned however as Smoke Jaguar resistance broke down the Smoke Jaguar Commanders ordered a full withdrawal from the Inner Sphere leaving every single world in the Smoke Jaguar Occupation Zone empty and four of the worlds completely untouched by battle, this enabled two full Galaxies of Smoke Jaguars to escape with two WarShips in support. Commanding-General Victor Steiner-Davion called a meeting with all major commanders in the SLDF on-board the Wolf (in-Exile) flagship Werewolf to discuss the SLDF’s next move.
“Here’s the situation. With just two reinforced Galaxies of Battle Hardened troops plus WarShip support heading back to Huntress we have only one option. We must follow the Smoke Jaguars to Huntress to relieve Morgan’s task force.†Victor said there were several nods from around the table.
“Forgive me if I am wrong, but Morgan has not even reached Huntress yet, could we not intercept his force and join forces?†House Master Fah Li Shei of the Capellan Warrior House Dai Da Chi asked.
“Morgan’s task force are in deep space, looking for them would be like looking for a needle in a haystack.†Danai Centrella, heir to the throne of the Magistracy of Canopus said, her battalion had unofficially attached itself to Victor’s Tenth Lyran Guard RCT for the duration of this campaign. Although the Magistracy was allied with the Capellan Confederation and that alliance was the only reason she was even here she had chosen to remain with the Revenants instead of remaining with the Capellans. Danai seemed not too impressed with the Capellan’s performance and certainly was not giving the warriors or their commanders an easy ride.
“She is right, my vessels have the Exodus Road co-ordinates, however, Morgan’s fleet is travelling off the Road by several light years to avoid detection. We would be shooting blind-folded if we went looking for Morgan in deep space.†Phelan Kell said, the Wolves (in-Exile) would never lead the Inner Sphere to Huntress anyway, they may have pledged to defend the Inner Sphere but like Wolf’s Dragoons they would never betray the location of the Homeworlds to an aggressor. Phelan knew this meant he’d probably never see the Clan Homeworlds but to be honest what he’d seen and heard of them he wasn’t missing much.
“We know Morgan’s target and that will be ours as well. I will take only regiments that are available and at full strength. If possible I want to take this fight to the heart of these Clanners. We will relieve Morgan’s force then we head for Strana Mechty.†There was a collective gasp across the room, the capital of the Clans was not originally even near the target list let alone considered as a viable target.
“You want to invade Strana Mechty? Victor, the Clans will annihilate any invasion force that enters that system. Hell you could spark an invasion by ALL the Clans!†Anastasius Focht said raising from his seat he knew the Federated Suns leader was an accomplished war leader and was always looking for bigger targets but Strana Mechty was too big even for the whole of the Inner Sphere.
“I don’t plan to invade the system, Precentor-Martial. From Huntress we should be in communication range of the Grand Council from Huntress.†Victor said glancing at Phelan who did the math in his head then nodded “we will send a message to the Grand Council challenging them to a Trial. If we are victorious the collective invasion of the Inner Sphere ends. If we loose well we know where we stand with them and the Inner Sphere will have to be ready for more heavy combat.â€
“A Trial of Refusal?†Phelan said quietly “it could work and would limit the casualties on each side. If you challenged the Khans and their Bodyguard Keshik you could force them to fight an honour match, the SLDF has proven itself the Clans equal by destroying the Smoke Jaguar invasion force.â€
“What about the forces still in the Draconis Combine?†Hohiro Kurita asked, there were still three worlds under Clan Stone Rhino control and one Smoke Jaguar world as well as small trinary sized Jaguar commands across the former Occupation Zone.
“We will leave plenty of force to take care of them.â€
“Who goes?†Kai Allard-Liao asked, it was obvious that as far as he was concerned he was in. Over the next hour a relief force was assembled with the Tenth Lyran Guards and their attached Magistracy Battalion, the First Genyosha Regiment of the DCMS under command of Coordinator Hohiro Kurita himself, Kai’s First St Ives Lancers First Battalion, ComStar’s Invader Galaxy, the Free Worlds League Second Knights of the Inner Sphere First Battalion, the Capellan Confederation’s Red Lancer Regiment, the Free Rasalhague Republic’s Third Drakons and the Lyran Alliance’s First Royal Guards Regiment. Would travel to Huntress then maybe Strana Mechty afterwards, escorting them would be four ComGuard WarShips, two Federated Commonwealth WarShips and two Draconis Combine WarShips. Khan Phelan Kell would take command of the Inner Sphere mop-up operation.
Victor sent a message to his sister Yvonne back in the Federated Commonwealth giving her regency on New Avalon and control over the Federated Commonwealth until he returned and Hohiro Kurita gave regency to his brother Minoru then Task Force Bulldog left the Inner Sphere in pursuit of the Smoke Jaguars.
Titan Shipyards
Terra System, Chaos March
30th August 3059
Barley two full days after Victor Steiner-Davion led the Star League Army in pursuit of Clan Smoke Jaguar’s Occupation Force ComStar’s spectre from the past struck. As the ComGuard attempted to run-down the remaining Smoke Jaguars and secure the Clan borders ensuring none of the other Clans attempted to take advantage of the situation the World of Blake struck ComStar hard and fast hitting the Titan Shipyards with the Blake’s Sword, freshly/secretly repaired at a Free World’s League shipyard, the Deliverance, an Essex-class Destroyer, and the Blake’s Redemption, a Vincent Mk-39 Corvette. Defending the shipyards were the Alacrity and Resilience, two ComGuard Vincents, and the under-crewed Hollings York, a ComGuard Congress-class Frigate. In the repair bays were another four WarShips, two from combat damage and another two still in mothball from the era of the first Star League.
In a short battle the Alacrity was destroyed quickly by a broadside from the Blake’s Sword the enemy vessel‘s weapons tearing the light Corvette’s armour to pieces the ships magazines doing the rest completely destroying the vessel leaving no survivors. The Hollings York was disabled the Blake’s Redemption by the Blakist crew targeting its engines and cargo bay doors causing loss in power and several explosive decompressions. To add to the Hollings York’s bad day the Resilience joins the battle by firing Naval Autocannon and Capital Missiles into the frigate, the ComGuard Vincent then sent a group of marines over to the Hollings York capturing the vessel and the crew turned both vessels over to the Word of Blake commander. With the end of this battle the Titan Shipyards and the entire Terra system were surrendered by the ComGuard to the Word of Blake. With many of the Inner Sphere’s leaders out of the Inner Sphere and the remnants of the Smoke Jaguars still causing trouble for the SLDF there was little anyone could do about the Blakist’s move.
-
Nova Cat Hall, Hall of the Khans
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
16th September 3059
Khan Santin West felt slightly strange, although he had been Khan of Clan Nova Cat for over a year he had never set foot in the Grand Hall of the Khans nor had he been in the Nova Cat Hall. Walking through the main entrance he noticed the two Delta Galaxy Elementals snap to attention upon noticing his insignia. Santin smiled and stepped into the Hall then turned around briefly “Warriors where is saKhan Devalis?â€
“His personnel Quarters, My Khan†one of the warriors said his voice enhanced by the Elemental Suits microphone and speakers. “Would you like me to call him?â€
“Neg, I will find him myself.†Santin said, no-doubt Karl knew he was on his way. The Khan stepped away and into the building, the two Elementals exchanged looks then returned to their guard duties.
As the Khan walked the corridors of the hall there was near silence, no surprise since other than the Khan, the saKhan and three techs/cleaners the hall was entirely abandoned. While some Clans has their entire Command in the Hall during various duties the Nova Cats had never had that many in their Hall, or on Strana Mechty even, and now since the Nova Cats had moved most of their Clan to the former Tortuga Dominions the Hall had become nearly a ghost building.
Stopping in front of Karl’s quarters the Khan knocked on the door once, there was no answer. So West hit the door harder, hard enough to make the door rattle. “I’m coming you stavag dog!†Karl screamed from inside his voice sounded ragged and was full of contractions. The door swung open Karl was dressed only in a towel and was covered in sweat. “What do you want…!?†He asked looking straight ahead straight at Santin’s forehead.
“Hello, Karl, a bad time?†Santin asked Karl looked down and realized who it was.
“My Khan… I’m… I am sorry, I was not expecting visitors.†He said standing there Santin looked at his attire with a questioning glance. “I was sparing with a member of the Ice Hellions after the Council.†He said, Clan Coyote had challenged the Nova Cats to a Trial of Possession over the Nova Cat OmniMech and failed to win the Trial when they had tried to salvage a Nova Cat from the Battlefield the rest of the Nova Cats had entered battle costing both sides nearly a Cluster each. Clan Coyote claimed the Nova Cats had broken the rules of the Trial but the Nova Cats had proven that the Coyotes were the ones in the wrong and the Nova Cats had gained the Coyote‘s brand-new Advanced Tactical Missile (ATM) Launcher technology in return.
“Well, I just came to inform you that I was back in the Homeworlds and that we should talk with the Oathmaster at the earliest convenience.â€
“Of course, Star Colonel, apologies Oathmaster Jal Steiner is currently residing on Barcella. According to reports he hasn’t left Biccon Winters sanctuary in eight days.â€
“How is he in the position?â€
“It is interesting my Khan, sometimes Jal Steiner fit’s in the position like a hand in a glove. Other times he is like a fish out of water… may I get dressed?†Karl asked, he still was standing in just a towel.
“Of course, we will meet in my office in an hour.†Santin said looking past Karl for a moment before leaving, he noted that Karl lived in a squalor and that he wouldn’t be in charge of cleaning anything ever.
Karl turned back into the room and looked a Sellen Cage still naked hidden partially behind a broken bed. “That was close†Karl said climbing over the bed, “we got an hour.†He said Sellen smiled and climbed back onto the bed, from now on they would have to be careful although relationships between members of different Clans was not banned and sexual relations between warriors was common, when leaders of Clans go involved there was sometimes trouble.
Biccon Winter’s Sanctum
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
20th September 3059
Upon hearing of the new Oathmaster’s actions Khan Santin West decided it was time to see the one time Star Colonel once more. Both Santin and Karl travelled to Barcella while Alpha Galaxy troops deployed across Clan space, when they were deployed Delta Galaxy would withdraw to Strana Mechty and escort the next batch of civilians to the Inner Sphere. This trip would also take the Nova Cat’s last scientists and an entirely disassembled factory to the Nova Cat’s Den, it would be the biggest Nova Cat move in months and the other Clans would notice it.
Soon the Clan Homeworlds would be alight with the Homeworld Clans declaring trials over the former Nova Cat territory. Travelling up the stairs of the command building of Delta Galaxy on Barcella Santin West had always wondered why Biccon Winters had chosen to have her sanctum so high off the ground, she had been an Elemental like Santin, there was no need to be this high off the ground in his opinion.
Knocking on the door all the Khan’s heard was silence, Khan West was beginning to get annoyed, instead of waiting any longer he opened the door and stepped in. Inside the sanctum the two Khans found near total darkness, but from what they could tell the room was completely empty barring the Oathmaster sitting cross-legged in front of a group of three candles. “Oathmaster†West said addressing Jal Steiner’s lifeless form.
“Khan West†Jal finally said still not moving “please enter, I believe we have much to discuss.†The two Khans moved into the room, the door mysteriously closed itself behind them “please sit†Jal said in a hushed voice, both Khans sat opposite the Oathmaster, from what they could tell Jal Steiner wore a simple black jumpsuit with no rank insignia, Clan insignia or weapons. Beside him was a small leather pouch which held his vineers.
“Oathmaster…†West began.
“Khan West†Jal interrupted “you believe that I hold this position wrongly.†it was not a question Jal had gained the position without competing in the Grand Melee or in front of the Clan Council and since his ascension he had not said a word to anyone and barely left this sanctum. “Biccon Winters believed that this position needed new eyes for a new future, but she knew that neither you nor the saKhan would accept her wish to resign or retire from being Oathmaster and that even if she did the rest of the Touman would still look to her instead of me for guidance.â€
“And with respect Oathmaster, they would be right to do so, Biccon Winters had been Oathmaster for over ten years. She had been Oathmaster for longer than you have been a member of this Clan.†West said, within the Nova Cat Touman the position of Oathmaster was always a respected one but Jal Steiner had not respected his Clan since accepting the position as Oathmaster, he had barely said a word.
“Well Khan West I have a revelation for you to ponder.â€
“What is it?†Karl asked, he had been silent up until now.
“This year the fates of the Clan’s will change.â€
“Change how?†West asked, despite his dislike of how Jal Steiner had reached his position, he was still the Oathmaster and deserved some respect.
“The Jaguar will be fatality struck from the well travelled Serpent, the Bears have followed another’s path and have almost finished their great journey, but may need help at home, the Bulldog and Prince will rise and the war will end.†Jal Steiner said quietly looking at the flame “now I am ready to rejoin our Clan my Khan.†He said raising to his feet.
“What?… you can not tell me things without meaning then wonder off!â€
“That is all I have seen, and all I wish to see.†Jal said leaving the room, as the Oathmaster walked out of the sanctum the candles winked out one-by-one and the rooms main lights came back on.
“He is certainly as creepy as any Oathmaster I have ever been around.†Karl said giving the Khan a weak smile. But the Khan was lost in thought “what is it?â€
“The Jaguar will be fatality struck from afar by the Serpent†the Khan said repeating the Oathmaster’s words. “He must mean the Smoke Jaguars, the only Clans that have a snake as their totem is the Steel Vipers who are far away and are more interested in the Jade Falcons and the Star Adders, who although are angry at sharing an Occupation Zone with the Smoke Jaguars are close not afar. Do any of the Inner Sphere realms use a snake to identify themselves?â€
“Neg, the closest is the Draconis Combine, they use the Dragon although I have heard them referred to as Snakes before by House Davion bondsmen captured by the other Clans I think it is a derogatory term.†Karl said.
“Could the Draconis Combine strike at the Smoke Jaguars?â€
“According to intelligence reports alone the Draconis Combine could not strike the Smoke Jaguars the Clan invasion and the various little wars the Inner has fought has destroyed nearly their whole touman, military. However, the Inner Sphere have reformed the Star League and have struck at the Smoke Jaguar/Star Adder Occupation Zones.â€
“When did this happen?†West asked turning on Karl, he had been out of communication for nearly six months, even with their communication boosters the Nova Cat communications with the Homeworlds were still far from perfect.
“The last few months, the Star Adders informed us that Khan Phelan Kell of the Wolves (in-Exile) had informed them the Inner Sphere was exacting penance on the Smoke Jaguars for mistreatment of prisoners and for the Orbital Bombardment of Turtle Bay. The Steel Adders have withdrawn to three worlds on the edge of the Inner Sphere.â€
“The Jaguar will be fatality struck from afar by the Serpent†the Khan said repeating the words again “could the Inner Sphere strike the Smoke Jaguars here in the Homeworlds?â€
“The Homeworlds! The Stavags would not be so bold, if they struck the Clans in the Homeworlds all the Clans would retaliate. It would destroy the Inner Sphere.â€
“Would we? The Clans are fragmenting, and we all see the Smoke Jaguars are rash in their actions, how many of the Clans would support the Smoke Jaguars?†West asked thinking out loud then answered his own question. “The Wolves are more interested in holding their inner sphere territory and preparing the next stage of the Invasion drive toward Terra, the Jade Falcons and Ghost Bears are the same. If the Star Adders have been driven back then they will not help the Smoke Jaguars.†He paused briefly looking at the smoke raising from the candles “we would not help them, our oldest enemy, even if we could and the rest of the Clans would be more interested in winning the former Smoke Jaguar territories here in the Homeworlds than risking their warriors helping save the Jaguars. I think the Inner Sphere is planning a strike on the Smoke Jaguars here in the Homeworlds. The Inner Sphere will strike Huntress, soon.†Santin said looking to Karl, there was stunned silence for several minutes.
“The Bears have followed another’s path and have almost finished their great journey, but may need help at home,†Karl said repeating the Oathmaster’s second-line. “We have moved our population in secret to the Nova Cat’s Den, could the Ghost Bears have done the same? Moved their entire Clan to their Occupation Zone without anyone realising following the Nova Cat Path?â€
“You have been in contact with the Homeworlds more than me, could they?â€
“Our Watch reports have recorded the Bears winning Trials against the Snow Ravens and Diamond Sharks for JumpShips and DropShips but loosing territory at every turn. Our reports suggest however their defences are as strong as ever.â€
“Are we so sure of that? Look at what we have done or over a year, surely the Ghost Bears could do the same. Have our Watch and Merchants in the Inner Sphere visit the Ghost Bears and enquire about possible trading opportunities. We will see how they react. And the Bears still control five percent of this world?†Karl nodded “a Trial will see if they still have the heart to defend this territory.â€
“We are withdrawing ourselves, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, but Barcella is still our major holding in the Homeworlds. I would like to keep a foothold here especially after loosing Dagda.†Although the withdrawal from Dagda had been planned and the Clan got something out of loosing the territory without loosing much in return it hurt the Khan that the Nova Cats had lost the Homeworld of their totem animal. “the Bulldog and the Prince will rise and the war will end†the Khan said repeating the last line.
“I know nothing of the Bulldog but “the Prince†has to be Victor Davion we’ve all heard of him being called that especially by the Falcons. Surely he has already risen? He leads the Federated Commonwealth.†Karl explained the other nodded in agreement “the war will end†That can only be in reference to the Invasion of the Inner Sphere, but the only way for that would be for the Inner Sphere to destroy all the Clans…†Karl said confused, although he could see the Inner Sphere destroying the Smoke Jaguars he could never imaging them destroying all the Clans, together the Clans were far too superior to the Inner Sphere in technology and support, the centuries of warfare that had plagued the Inner Sphere had taken their toll on the Inner Sphere’s armies. If the Inner Sphere tried to stop all the Clans they would be signing their own death warrants.
“Or they could strike at the head, killing the grand council or challenging the Clans to a Trial of Refusal could stop the joined Invasion of the Inner Sphere.â€
“The only way to stop the Invasion completely would be to kill the ilKhan.â€
“Not much of a waste if you ask me. Karl we have work to do, prepare Delta Galaxy for the journey as planned but we will send the Oathmaster in command instead of you.â€
“The Oathmaster? My Khan, Delta Galaxy is my command, I have been in command for over a decade. I will not turn over command just because the new Oathmaster makes a prophecy. I will fight for my right to command if need be.†Karl said West understood his desire to command Delta, it was still the most powerful of the Clan’s Galaxies despite his creation of Tau Galaxy. The Nova Cat’s Delta Galaxy was also one of the most prestigious units in the entire Homeworlds, over the centuries since its creation Delta Galaxy had never been deactivated and had always caused the opposing force heavy crippling damage.
“Neg, saKhan, I will not strip you of command. Traditionally the Oathmaster has held the position of aide to the saKhan in command of Delta Galaxy, Quiaff?â€
“Aff†Karl conceded.
“Good, then the Oathmaster will command the Galaxy and take it back to the Nova Cat’s Den ensuring there is an element of our command in the new Homeworlds. Your command Trinary will remain on Strana Mechty just in case the Inner Sphere comes, I will leave the Blood Oath at a pirate point in the system as support.â€
“The other Khans will not like that.†The Clans rarely left WarShips in the Strana Mechty system, normally they arrived dropped their cargo and left ensuring no WarShip combat took place in the system.
“But they will do nothing. I will take command here for now and secure the Ghost Bear territory. Not to worry my friend you will leave the Homeworlds by March if nothing happens, you have my promise.â€
“I will hold you to that my Khan, what of the new Oathmaster?†Karl asked as they both raised to their feet, it was time to get to work, as they left the Khan answered.
“He will do.â€
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Harvest Trials
Clan Homeworlds/Pentagon Worlds
Clan Space
15th November 3059
By this point the Harvest Trials launched by the Invading Clans against the Homeworld Clans have ended. Each of the Invading Clans have gained several clusters of troops from their Homeworld brethren, mainly crusader warriors desperate to have a bite out of the Inner Sphere, or equipment to equip their toumans with new technology for their own warriors. The only Invading Clan to really suffer from these Harvest Trials was the Smoke Jaguars who actually lost an entire Cluster of troops divided between the Blood Spirits and the Stone Rhinos and control of an entire Merchant DropShip squadron to the Diamond Sharks hampering their transport capabilities.
Battle of Trafalgar
Invisible Truth (Cameron-class Battle-cruiser)
Unnamed Star System, Deep Periphery
18th December 3059
During their journey towards the Clan Homeworlds the Ranger, Task Force Serpent’s Lola III-class Destroyer discovered four Clan Ghost Bear WarShips escorting six JumpShips. Unable to allow the Ghost Bears to make it to the Inner Sphere and warn the other Clans of the Task Force’s existence the Invisible Truth, Starlight, Haruna and Antrim all jumped in to join the Ranger in the battle.
In the biggest Naval Battle experienced by warriors from the Inner Sphere in centuries that historians would call Trafalgar after the naval battle won by Admiral Horatio Nelson on Terra during the age of sail. During the battle the four Ghost Bear WarShips were tied to defending their JumpShips and the heavier Inner Sphere force quickly began to gain the upper hand despite heavy damage caused to the Ranger in the early part of the battle. The Serpent WarShips quickly encircled the Ghost Bears as the DEST troopers aboard the Haruna took two NL-42 Battle Taxis and boarded the Ghost Bear’s Fire Fang, a Whirlwind-class Destroyer.
Commodore Allan Beresick noticed the battle develop the Inner Sphere WarShips were concentrating on the two Ghost Bear Whirlwinds and the Vincent Mk 42 while the Congress pulled back and hit them with capital missiles and autocannon from long range, Allan was ready to take the Invisible Truth against the Congress and crush the Clan frigate however at the corner of the battle he noticed something. The bridge techs magnified the image and the Holo-tank in the centre of the room zoomed in on the image a pair of small fast moving DropShips a tiny Claymore-class assault ship and a larger slower Hamilcar-class troopship, the only faction to share such disparate vessels were the Eridani Light Horse. “Get the skipper of one of those ships on the phone now†Allan said looking at the ships, far from the battle they were headed for one thing, the Congress.
“Sir, I have the Captain of the FSS Sharpened Blade.†The comm. officer the Holo-tank updated showing the names of the two DropShips, the smaller Claymore was the FSS Sharpened Blade, one of the Kathil Uhlans escort DropShips. Allan looked to one of the auxiliary screens to see Marshal of Armies Morgan Hasek-Davion’s face.
“Marshal what are you doing aboard that ship?â€
“Protecting an asset†Morgan said as the Sharpened Blade made some strong evasive manoeuvres out manoeuvring a Clan Broadsword-class DropShip cutting the ship to pieces with a devastating strike, the Hamilcar then opened fire as well finishing off the Clan vessel.
“Explain please, sir you are an asset as well.â€
“Aye, but on that Hamilcar carries Rear Admiral David Natale, commander of the Eridani Light Horse JumpShip and fighter fleet, he said he wants a WarShip and was going after one.â€
“The DEST troopers are at this moment taking control of one of the Ghost Bear’s Whirlwind class Destroyers.†Allan said as the Ghost Bear Vincent Mk 42 exploded, the Holo-tank zoomed back out and then focused on the Ranger.
“Commodore, the Ranger is ablaze on several decks, main batteries are out, landing bays destroyed.â€
“Have them withdraw from battle, weapons full covering fire for the Ranger, order the Ranger not to use here jump drives until we are able to check them out.†Allan said turning back to Morgan “Marshal, as I said the Whirlwind will be ours any minute, the Light Horse can have here. I cannot cover your advance, we have people dying over here.â€
“Understood Commodore but the Light Horse want their own ship, I support them. Take care of your people I’ll take care of the Light Horse.†Morgan said and the image disappeared.
The Battle seemed to go into turbo charged mode with things happening all over the battlefield, first the Fire Fang, the boarded Whirlwind went completely dark with its weapons seizing their fire and the sensors being disabled. Then the other Whirlwind exploded leaving only the Congress which also quickly went dark, the battle fizzled out as the Fire Fang then the Shining Claw (the Congress) both declared for the Star League Defence Force with Rear Admiral David Natale declaring himself commander of the newly captured Frigate. The small JumpShip fleet now devoid of their defence force quickly surrendered and the fleet found themselves in a predicament, onboard the JumpShips and their adjoining DropShips were over three thousand civilians and on the two WarShips there were over five hundred captured Ghost Bear Warriors, the Star League force could not allow them to continue on to the Inner Sphere as they would inform the Clans of Serpent‘s target but killing nearly four thousand people in cold blood didn‘t sit well with the Spheroids.
As overall commander Marshal Morgan Hasek-Davion made the decisions, he offered the Bears a choice swear a blood oath to the Star League and be accepted as abtakha or be marooned on the nearest habitable planet. Enough of the crews of both the Shining Claw and the Fire Fang accepted and they were added to the vessels crews as labourers keeping the vessels operational. The rest along with the Ghost Bear civilians and several Stars of ground troops from their DropShips were marooned on a habitable world with the promise from Morgan that the Star League would return them to Clan Ghost Bear after the conquest of the Smoke Jaguars. The Star League Armada then jumped away closer to Huntress with two extra WarShips.
In another system it was decided because of the damage sustained to the Ranger, half her weapons were destroyed and over half of her fighter bays were out of commission, that the vessel would retire from battle and return to the Inner Sphere (roughly a three month journey to Columbus Base). A volunteer crew was selected from the ComGuards on the other vessels and the Ranger disappeared on its lonely journey back to the Inner Sphere never to be seen again.
In the meantime the Eridani Light Horse got to grips with command of a Congress-class Frigate with help from the remaining Ghost Bear crewmen willing to join them and from several members of the ComGuard crews on the three remaining ComStar vessels. Delaying the fleets next jump by approximately one week.
Ending 3059, hopefully you enjoyed the expanded version of this AU
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Into 3060...
3060
Clan Ghost Bear Hall
Hall of the Khans, Strana Mechty
Clan Homeworlds, Kerensky Cluster
2nd February 3060
Khan Bjorn Jorgensson stood in his command room looking at various reports, the integration of Clan Ghost Bear and the native conquered population of the Free Rasalhague Republic was going well, the rest of the Clans, except the Snow Ravens, knew nothing about the Ghost Bear withdrawal from Clan Space the stage was set for the biggest announcement the Clans had ever experienced. Loremaster Laurie Tseng entered the room just behind him “what is it Loremaster?†He asked not moving an inch, he had known here for years and knew how she moved and what it sounded like.
“My Khan, the last of our civilians have left Clan space, although there are reports that Gamma convoy did not reach the Occupation Zone it may be they have been delayed. And the Nova Cats have secured our territory on Barcella, as ordered we offered only token resistance and collateral damage was kept to a minimum.“
“Very good, have the convoy’s scouts search surrounding systems just in case there is a more serious problem.â€
“What about the Grand Council? When do we inform the Khans of our actions?â€
“We wait until our civilians are safely away from any retribution and until the Snow Ravens have fully deployed to take advantage of the situation, we will not ignore our allies now.â€
“Of course my Khan, I shall inform Beta Galaxy to continue the withdrawal to Arcadia and Strana Mechty?â€
“Aff, but make sure we continue with out presence on all worlds, we will not give the other Clans any indication that we have left Clan space until it is too late.â€
“Aff, my Khan.†the Loremaster said leaving the room.
Task Force Serpent Fleet
Unnamed System, Deep Periphery
14th February 3060
Waiting to jump into the Huntress system and begin the conquest of Clan Smoke Jaguar’s Homeworld the fleet encounter something quite spooky, dubbed the Voice of Kerensky. This radio frequency was sent by Aleksandr Kerensky, Commanding-General of the First Star League Army as they landed on the Clan Homeworlds and sent back to the Inner Sphere.
“To all citizens of the Inner Sphere do I, Aleksandr Kerensky, send greetings. Know that I have taken the remnant of the Star League Defence Force which has remained true to its purpose beyond the boundaries of the Inner Sphere, beyond the Periphery. I have done this, neither out of disappointment with those whom we leave behind, nor out of spite or disdain, as some will say. We have left the Inner Sphere because we love it too much to see it destroyed. In the wake of the Usurper’s coup and the long, bitter fighting that has followed, I fear that my forces will be used to do incalculable, possibly irreparable, harm to our society. We have sworn to ward the Star League and its subjects, not destroy it.â€
“Thus we have left the only homes we have ever known to place the destructive capability of this armada beyond the reach of those who would use it, not for defence, but for conquest. Perhaps, with the might of our Mechs and ships out of their reach, the leaders who now grapple with one another will relinquish their dreams of subjugating their neighbours and learn to live in peace with them.â€
“Perhaps, one day, should mankind step back from the brink of the abyss, we, or our children, or our children’s children will return, to once more serve, protect and guide the Star League’s in mankind’s quest for the stars.â€
“Farewell.†And with that the voice cut off, some of the troops saw this as a bad omen for the mission others saw it as a good omen, as the true Star League were going to stop the abomination Aleksandr’s son Nicholas had created. Never the less during the time the SLDF Fleet are in the region dozens of copies of the message are recorded by various parties many intent on distributing them when they return home to the Inner Sphere exploiting this unique point in history for their own gain. For the most part the commanders within the fleet allow this as long as it does not interfere with their duties, they see little need to stop people making money off of the Clans.
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Jaguar Command Centre, Mount Szabo
Fang’s Mountain Range, Huntress
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Space
2nd March 3060
On March 2nd Operation Serpent began with the first Inner Sphere troops landing on Huntress. On February 28th the Kyushu-class Frigate Haruna jumped into the Huntress system at a pirate point beaming the Identification, Friend or Foe (IFF) Frequency of a Jaguar York-class Destroyer. Then a Clan Broadsword captured from Clan Ghost Bear at Trafalgar brought the assault team in system, the assault team the thirty DEST troopers was dropped onto the Fang’s Mountain Range with a direct mission, capture or destroy the Smoke Jaguars command, control and space defence centre.
Surprisingly the DEST troopers found the mountain top command centre lightly defended only guarded by twenty-five Smoke Jaguar Elementals, a single star. Although the Elemental suit was generally better than the Kage Battle Armour used by the DEST troopers the Inner Sphere troops outnumbered the Elementals and were far more skilful. Eight hours into the fight and the facility was secured, knowing they could not hold the facility indefinitely the DEST troopers set of explosives completely collapsing the mountain tunnels the base was built in. The DEST troopers then headed East towards the capital, the plan being the DEST troops would stay hidden until the rest of the Star League force arrived and attacked the Smoke Jaguar defenders.
Nadir Battle Site/Ground Battle
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
12th March 3060
Task Force Serpent arrives in the Huntress system full heartedly once in the system they discovered the Smoke Jaguars had three WarShips, a Sovetskii-Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, the Pouncing Fury and a pair of Vincent Mk-42-class Corvettes, Bronze Jaguar and Gold Jaguar, Clan Smoke Jaguar, defending the system. Against Task Force Serpent’s powerful naval contingent they were quickly overpowered however at the cost of the FCS Rostock, one of the Fox-class Corvettes assigned to the fleet, and heavy damage to the Starlight, one of ComStar’s Essex-class Destroyers. Following this battle the SLDF ground troops move into the system and invade the Smoke Jaguar’s capital.
On the ground the 151st and Twenty-First Regiments of the Eridani Light Horse attacks a major MechWarrior training centre near the planetary capital Lootera.
The Seventy-First Eridani Light Horse strikes the Smoke Jaguar’s Main Genetic Repository a gigantic pyramid structure.
The Rabid Fox Teams equipped with Standard Inner Sphere Battle Armour moves into the Eastern Mountains to watch over the Clan Jade Falcon Base, the Falcon Eyrie, and ensure that the Clan did not get involved.
The First Knights of the Inner Sphere, Kingston’s Legionaries and Warrior House Lu Sann engages the training base on the outskirts of New Andery.
While the Northwind Highlanders, their infantry the First Ghurkha and the Royal Black Watch Company engages the defenders of the factory complex near Pahn City.
The Eleventh Lyran Guards assaults a training base near the city of Bagera taking on the crop of the Smoke Jaguar‘s next generation and their instructors.
The Second St Ives Lancers and the Fourth Drakons attacks a training base on the continent of Abysmal.
Finally the First Kathil Uhlans seized the factory complex near the city of Myer and the Second Division of the ComGuards would seize the remains of the Szabo Command Complex and then act as a mobile reserve supporting any force that needed it.
Some of the forces faced little opposition however the Kathil Uhlans took damage from a particularly strong defence force and calls in support from the Second Division as did the Second St Ives and the Fourth Drakons.
The Northwind Highlanders encountered something entirely different - ProtoMechs. A new combat unit developed by Clan Smoke Jaguar these super-Elementals or half-sized BattleMechs were something entirely new, some were as fast as BattleMechs and could take larger weapons than Elementals but they fought like Elementals ganging up on the Serpent warriors in points of five. The Highlanders took heavy damage in the fighting but were able to take their target three days longer than was originally planned. The Lyran Guards and Knights of the Inner Sphere are also attacked by heavy forces and after being repulsed three times, with casualties mounting the SLDF commander Marshal Sharon Bryan of the Lyran Guards was forced to call in orbital weapons fire support from the orbiting Shining Claw. The two units however still took nearly seventy percent non recoverable losses in material and warriors either injured or killed.
The Orbital Bombardment broke the Jaguar defenders who retreated waiting for reinforcements from other Jaguar holdings and the remains of their Inner Sphere Occupation Zone.
Ground Battle
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
16th March 3060
As the Star League Defence Force destroy all Smoke Jaguar factories, command centres, training bases and any facilities that could be used for military means by the clansmen the units of Task Force Serpent begin to refit their forces as much as possible preparing for the next trouble. General Ariana Winson is killed when a Star of Clan Smoke Jaguar Assault Mechs charge the Eridani Light Horse command base near the Genetic Repository. The Seventy-First Eridani Light Horse temporarily withdraw from the Genetic Repository however the Smoke Jaguars did not remain on site for very long abandoning one of the most sacred places on the planet, a very un-clanlike move that allowed the Seventy-First returned to their position.
On Strana Mechty ilKhan Lincoln Osis convenes the Grand Council of the Khans and tries to convince the other Clans to intervene and help the Smoke Jaguars repel the Inner Sphere troops claiming that the Inner Sphere troops would not stop with one Clan. The Wolves, Star Adders and Jade Falcons counter that by saying the Inner Sphere had already informed the Clans through the Star Adders that this was against the Smoke Jaguars not the rest of the Clans. Once the Smoke Jaguars were destroyed the Inner Sphere would cease military operations against the Clans in the Clan Homeworlds. They also point out that because the Clans were defeated on Tukayyid joint Clan operations are a thing of the past, the Smoke Jaguar Clan will stand alone.
Following a call that the defence of Huntress would be down to the Smoke Jaguars the ilKhan, his command trinaries and the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser Streaking Mist returned to Huntress.
Nadir Battle Point
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
22nd March 3060
The bulk of the Smoke Jaguar Occupation force arrives with a Liberator-class Cruiser and two Vincent Mk-42-class Corvettes and the equivalent of two Galaxies of ground troops in the Huntress system with full DropShip and Fighter Support. The first battle of the Huntress system occurs in deep space with the three Smoke Jaguar WarShips attacking the Star League WarShips as soon as they enter the system, which allows the ground forces to get past the SLDF WarShip blockade and head for Huntress. The previous Battle discipline shown by the Clans is gone from the Smoke Jaguars now they are just desperate to save their Clan and kill anything that they consider a threat.
The Invisible Truth and Bordeaux both take heavy damage but are battle ready. Also damaged, but not as heavily, are the Antrim, Haruna and the Fire Fang but all were still battle ready. The most horrifying loss is ComStar’s Starlight already damaged in previous battles the destroyer rams one of the Smoke Jaguar Vincent Mk 42-class Corvettes. The kinetic energy, previous battles and the impact destroys both vessels in a horrifying explosion, none of the crewmen on either vessel escape the follow on destructions. To compound the loss of the Starlight the Emerald, the other ComStar Essex-class Destroyer is abandoned and scuttled due to heavy damage.
Fortunately the SLDF vessels are able to rally their forces destroying the Smoke Jaguar Liberator and disabling the remaining Corvette. In a move uncommon with the Clans the Smoke Jaguar crew aboard the Vincent set off their scuttle charges refusing to become bondsmen or have their vessel captured by the SLDF or an opportunistic Clan.
Ground Battle Site
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
26th March 3060
Warned that the Smoke Jaguars were inbound the Eridani Light Horse controlled Congress-class Frigate Shining Claw engages the incoming Jaguars. Although the Shining Claw is able to destroy several DropShips and a large portion of the Jaguar fighter support it is unable to stop the bulk of the ground forces making it to Huntress and withdraws before damage from the swarms of DropShips and fighters could take its toll on the vessel.
As the Jaguars were burning in system the Serpent’s Ground Force itself had been busy dividing into three commands Marshal Morgan Hasek-Davion himself took command of the main force comprised of the Eridani Light Horse, ComGuards and Second St Ives Lancers and was tasked with defending the capital city Lootera, the main spaceport, the Genetic Repository and the mountain top Szabo command centre covering a large portion of the northern continent. The second force the Kathil Uhlans, Warrior House Lu Sann, the Knights of the Inner Sphere and the Northwind Highlanders would hold the factories and the plains near Lake Osis to the southwest. And finally the relief force consisting of the remains of the heavily under strength Kingston’s Legionaries, the Fourth Drakons and the Lyran Guards were left on the barren continent of Abysmal, previously used as a proving ground for by the Jaguars, the force was left with as many DropShips as might be needed to transport the whole force of any of the other forces needed assistance they could move rapidly to assist them.
The following battles were devastating for both sides with the Smoke Jaguar commander Star Colonel Paul Moon informing the Star League forces that they were landing on the Plains of Lootera and that if they wanted to win Huntress in one glorious battle they would meet him there.
Marshal Morgan Hasek-Davion saw this as the chance to crush the last of the Smoke Jaguars and set up massive artillery forces around the area, the Smoke Jaguars however did not stop or even pause under the fire and charged straight into the northern army crushing the Second St Ives Lancers and the ComGuards before Leftenant-General Andrew Redburn, commander of the Kathil Uhlans arrived with the bulk of his own second force after abandoning the factories and plains to save the main force. Standing side-by-side in their two captured Dire Wolf Clan Assault OmniMechs Andrew Redburn and Morgan Hasek-Davion help hold the line and push the Smoke Jaguars back to their DropShips and onto secondary landing zones.
Unfortunately for the SLDF survivors during the battle Smoke Jaguar saKhan Brandon Howell, his command trinary, and the survivors of the original defenders of Huntress attacked the SLDF relief force on Abysmal shattering the Kingston’s Legionaries by killing their commander Colonel Samuel Kingston. The Legionary survivors are folded into the other commands as they hold back the Smoke Jaguars with the aid of orbital weapons fire from the newly repositioned Shining Claw, saKhan Brandon Howell dies in this savage, desperate throw of the dice by SLDF forces which in turn shatters the morale of the Smoke Jaguars and drives them into full retreat.
Ground Battle Site
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
28th March 3060
Deeper in the Huntress system the Streaking Mist with ilKhan Lincoln Osis on-board the Streaking Mist, the last known operational Smoke Jaguar WarShip, arrives at a pirate point to avoid the SLDF fleet detaching all four of its DropShips with the last of Clan Smoke Jaguar‘s Touman, the Khan‘s Bodyguard and the Smoke Jaguar garrison of Strana Mechty. The Khan’s four DropShips burned towards Huntress while the Streaking Mist heads for the SLDF fleet in one last act of defiance for Clan Smoke Jaguar’s navy.
With the arrival of the ilKhan the Smoke Jaguars go back on the offensive attacking the remaining ComGuards at the planets main Spaceport near Lootera. The Smoke Jaguars single-mindedness and target fixation on the white Mech’s of ComStar was their undoing however as the Eridani Light Horse charge the flank of the attacking Smoke Jaguars allowing the remaining Level III, roughly a battalion, of ComGuard troops to escape the bloodbath. The Smoke Jaguars withdraw however they withdraw straight into the Northwind Highlanders. The Highlanders hold the Smoke Jaguars firm and in a bloody close quarters battle more than a cluster of Smoke Jaguars are killed, however, this battle costs the Highlanders with Colonel William McLeod being killed when his Huron Warrior was destroyed by a charging Smoke Jaguar Masakari (Warhawk). Captain Neil Campbell commander of the Black Watch Company take over command of the entire Highlander contingent at the behest of the other Highlander commanders, the captain take a field promotion in the Star League Defence Force to Major from Morgan Hasek-Davion.
During this battle the Jade Falcons decided now would be a good time to declare a Trial of Possession against the Smoke Jaguars for the newly debuted ProtoMech technology the Rabid Fox troopers, who had sat waiting/watching while their friends died fighting the Jaguars, unaware the Jade Falcons were moving against the Smoke Jaguars acted.
“Captain, the Jade Falcons are moving towards my position†Leftenant Samuel Ford reported his squad of Battled armoured troopers were hunkered down watching as an entire Trinary of Jade Falcon OmniMechs began to start up.
“Understood prepare for plan alpha, do not engage the OmniMechs directly and keep out of sight as much as possible, we don’t want to piss off another Clan.†Captain Roger Montjar said over the comm. from his position further up the mountain Samuel nodded Serpent was barely holding back the angered Smoke Jaguars another Clan would kill them and doom the Inner Sphere‘s effort to kill the Smoke Jaguars and end the Clan Invasion, this required some finesse.
Samuel waited several moments then detonated explosives they had laid throughout the Eastern Mountains sealing the paths through the mountains but not harming a single Jade Falcon warrior. The Jade Falcons opened fire with every weapon in their arsenal making the landslides even worse but not harming Samuel or any member of his team as they expertly climbed the mountain. “Haa Haa!†Samuel shouted in delight “Fox One, we got’em boss, alpha worked a treat!†Samuel said into the comm. There was no response “Captain respond†Samuel said looking into his HUD (Heads-Up-Display), he saw the Captain and his team on the HUD they had been crushed by a landslide created by the Jade Falcon weapons fire. Samuel just hoped the Falcons had killed them before they were crushed by thousands of tons of rubble. “Shit, all Fox units on me, now we go kill some Jaguars!†He said taking command the remaining Rabid Fox then withdrew from the mountains and rejoined the main Serpent force near Lootera.
Nadir Battle Point
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
31st March 3060
The Streaking Mist engaged the SLDF WarShips with only its OmniFighters in support. As the command WarShip of the entire Smoke Jaguar Clan the WarShip was the most elite in the entire Touman supported with the most elite fighters and the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser was no push over on a normal day with rows of heavy Naval Autocannons supported by sever naval missile launchers. Commodore Allan Beresick watched as the Smoke Jaguar Black Lion opened fire and with one volley destroyed the Antrim, the remaining Federated Commonwealth Fox-class Corvette, in the first volley naval missiles first striking then followed by heavy autocannons that ripped the armour of the corvette to pieces. Not one escape pod or lifeboat exited the vessel and Allan made a mental not that the Antrim was a total loss, unfortunately it was not the first and it wouldn‘t be the last. “Turn all guns on that vessel!†He ordered into the comm. which in turn was transmitted to all the SLDF vessels the Invisible Truth fired almost immediately hitting the Black Lion with its remaining Heavy Naval PPC, the Black Lion’s thick armour shrugged off the hit and continued forward as the captured Whirlwind, Fire Fang, fired with autocannons and Light Naval Gauss Rifles fired tearing up more armour on the massive Streaking Mist. Follow up attacks from fighters and DropShips caused even more damage to the Battle-cruiser.
Unfortunately the Streaking Mist nor her fighters stopped under the barrage and continued forward towards the Whirlwind. Beresick expected to see the captured Ghost Bear vessel explode under the weapons of the heavy Smoke Jaguar weapons however the Streaking Mist turned at the last moment opening fire with a full broadside into the Bordeaux, the ComGuard Dante-class Frigate, at near point blank range. The heavy naval autocannons tore into the Dante’s armour from stem-to-stern causing hull breaches all over the place emptying the vessel to space. As he watched Allan knew that even with the pressure doors automatically sealing that there was little chance the majority of the ComGuard trained crew aboard the vessel would survive and he was helpless to help any of them. “kill that Black Lion now!†He screamed as the Haruna, Invisible Truth and Fire Fang all reached perfect firing position at the same time and fired together again. A second barrage of fire on the Battle-cruiser was too much even for the powerful Clan vessel and it finally ended the threat posed by the Streaking Mist, the last vessel of the once proud Clan, was destroyed in an ever expanding ball of flame as its fusion engine containment let loose blowing the WarShip to tiny pieces that covered the entire battle area. The Smoke Jaguar fighters continued to fight on until their weapons ran out of ammunition or they were destroyed, any fighter that remained untouched was captured but inside the techs found the Smoke Jaguar pilots dead by their own hands unwilling to serve with another Clan, the Star League or the Dark Caste.
Allan Beresick sent a message to Morgan Hasek-Davion informing him that Clan Smoke Jaguar’s Naval forces were officially defeated. Sitting in the command room of the Invisible Truth he wondered to himself at what a cost. All three of his remaining WarShips were heavily damaged and the area was covered in the wreckage of five other friendly WarShips and four Smoke Jaguar vessels which would endanger Space going vessels for days if not weeks. Commodore Beresick recalled the Shining Claw from Huntress orbit seeing the need for more on-hand firepower robbing the ground forces of their heavy fire support, then again if the WarShips fell the SLDF ground forces would be trapped on Huntress at the mercy of all the Clans.
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Jaguar’s Fangs Mountain Range/Plains of Lootera
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
3rd April 3060
Hearing of the recent assault by the Streaking Mist and seeing the damage the Smoke Jaguars were still capable of Marshal Morgan Hasek-Davion took his remaining forces deep into the mountains concentrating his entire force in one place, even with space bound superiority the Task Force Serpent had gone from aggressor to the hunted.
The SLDF troops travelled for days through the mountains, their forces little more than three damaged but over strength combined-arms regiments. The Smoke Jaguars however knew their capitol world well and outflanked the SLDF troops by using a secret passageway through the mountains known only to the highest and oldest members of the Clan.
Once in position the Smoke Jaguars attacked causing untold destruction, as far as the Smoke Jaguars were concerned this was their last battle as a Clan, this battle they won or they died. The SLDF troops saw this battle as a one way affair as well, if they lost the Smoke Jaguars would destroy them in their anger no prisoners would be taken by either side.
In a battle that could only be described as epic the SLDF and Jaguars fought for almost eighteen hours with many warriors fighting until their own Mech’s exploded under the intense wear-and-tear of constant fighting. The Smoke Jaguars continued to push constantly causing the Serpent survivors trouble until about three in the morning on the 3rd April 3060 when the Smoke Jaguars disappeared and the fighting stopped giving the Serpent survivors respite. Three hours later one of the Rabid Fox troopers that had been hidden in Lootera reported to the base camp, another Clan, the Stone Rhinos, had arrived - fearing the worse Morgan Hasek-Davion ordered Serpent to withdraw even deeper into the mountain range.
Clan Stone Rhino had arrived in system through the same pirate point the Streaking Mist had used. However as the Stone Rhino Khan landed it became obvious that the Stone Rhinos were not interested in helping the Smoke Jaguars as Khan Thomas Perez stepped from the DropShip in his OmniMech and challenged the Smoke Jaguars to a Trial of Absorption.
The Smoke Jaguars, even with their Capitol invaded and under siege were unable to turn down such a challenge from another Clan met on the field of battle, both sides were near equal in strength. “This is ilKhan Lincoln Osis of the Smoke Jaguars, we will defeat you today Thomas Perez and bring your rebel companions back into the Smoke Jaguar Clan, and together we will destroy the SLDF forces assembled. I bring to this battle four full clusters.â€
“This is Khan Thomas Perez of Clan Stone Rhino, it if funny how things have changed ilKhan, Quiaff? You threatened my Clan with annihilation, now I am absorbing the remains of your pitiful Clan.†Perez said in reply “I bring three clusters of troops†he said by undercutting the Smoke Jaguars he would gain great honour for his Clan if successful, and even if he was unsuccessful the damage done to the Smoke Jaguars would take all the fight from them for the SLDF to finish them off easily ending the threat of the Smoke Jaguars forever.
The two Clans began fighting the traditional Clan battle a stand up battle with long range duelling, some of the most elite troops either Clan could muster fought each other for twelve hours neither side willing to break, with approximately a two full Trinaries down on both sides a new element arrives on the scene.
With their base on Huntress isolated and the troops unable to react the Jade Falcons went to the Grand Council with information that the Inner Sphere were fighting the Smoke Jaguars on Huntress and the Stone Rhinos had arrived and challenged the Smoke Jaguars to a Trial of Absorption during this Trial. Following hours of debate in which the Smoke Jaguars and Stone Rhinos had pounded each other the Grand Council voted without them and in favour of allowing the Trial between the Inner Sphere and Smoke Jaguars to continue until one force was destroyed or absorbed.
With half the warriors dead on the field the Nova Cat’s Thunderbolt, the Snow Raven’s Nightlord-class Battleship Snow Raven, Clan Wolf’s Texas-class Battleship Touman, the Jade Falcon Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser White Aerie and the Star Adder’s Absolute Truth arrived in system near the remaining Inner Sphere vessels.
Following a brief stand-off of silence Commodore Allan Beresick was ready to offer his force’s immediate surrender, none of his vessels were ready for a fight with one of the Clan vessels arrayed against them let alone all five. Just as he opened up communications to surrender the Clan commanders broke their silence and informed the Inner Sphere forces that they wanted to see the outcome of the Inner Sphere/Smoke Jaguar Trial of Annihilation and by order of the Grand Council the Stone Rhinos were to vacate Huntress. The two Clans stopped their Trial almost straight away but not before one final twist of the knife by the Smoke Jaguars, a Smoke Jaguar Mech fired a PPC just at the end of the battle, the powerful energy weapon engulfed Khan Thomas Perez’s OmniMech cockpit killing the Stone Rhino Khan dead. With the other Clans and the Serpent forces watching the Stone Rhinos were forced to take their salvage and ProtoMech technology and go, the Smoke Jaguars lived for another day. Picking through the remaining salvage the Serpent forces salvaged a Stone Rhino Quad-OmniMech deemed as unrecoverable salvage by the two Clans.
As the Serpent repaired their Mechs and prepared for the final onslaught from Clan Smoke Jaguar forces, however Clan Smoke Jaguar was barely keeping itself operational because of the damage the SLDF had done while in control of Huntress, virtually none of their manufacturing and repair facilities were on-line. Finally the Smoke Jaguars marched from Lootera onto the Plains, the remains of Task Force Serpent stood at the other side of the fields ready to stand and die fighting the last of the Smoke Jaguars, shortages of supplies and medical equipment had forced them to come looking for their DropShips, mostly parked at the Spaceport. Then to everyone’s surprise, and to the Inner Sphere forces, the miracle everyone had been waiting for happened.
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
6th April 3060
The Task Force Bulldog relief force commanded by Victor Steiner-Davion arrived in the Huntress system, seeing the Clan WarShips and the remaining Serpent WarShips standing side-by-side and not fighting made the Bulldog commanders hold their fire saving everyone from horrors of the biggest naval bloodbath in centuries.
Seeing an opportunity to end the fighting everywhere Victor Steiner-Davion challenged the Khans of all the Clans to a Trial to end the Clan War once and for all. IlKhan Lincoln Osis on Huntress refused and ordered the Clan WarShips to eliminate the Inner Sphere WarShips then help the Smoke Jaguars mop-up the remains of the Serpent forces on Huntress. The other Khans on-board their WarShips saw things differently they informed Lincoln Osis that his Clan were now facing another six regiments of warriors in a Trial of Annihilation, and unless he accepted Victor’s challenge they would release the task force for immediate combat against the Smoke Jaguars.
After consulting with his remaining commanders Lincoln Osis regrettably agreed to the terms laid down by the other Khans. The Khans gave Victor’s task force fourteen days to repair the forces on Huntress then join them for a Trial on Strana Mechty. The other Khans then left the system and returned to Strana Mechty, Lincoln Osis concentrated his forces in Lootera while the SLDF began caring for the survivors of the Serpent operation.
Refusal War
Various, Strana Mechty
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
20th April 3060
Across Strana Mechty the scene was set for a series of trials to determine if the Crusaders invasion of the Inner Sphere would continue or be ended. In a surprising turn of events the Warden Clans led by Clan Ghost Bear and Clan Nova Cat refused to compete claiming that they had no grudge against the Inner Sphere and that they would night fight to maintain a war of aggression.
To limit damage it was agreed that a single company of warriors from each would compete from the Inner Sphere led by the most senior two people from each faction. The Clans would field a Binary plus the two Khans of each Clan. The side that accumulated the most wins would be declared winner.
The first trial was the Smoke Jaguars led by ilKhan Lincoln Osis himself against the Tenth Lyran Guards representing the Federated Commonwealth with Archon-Prince Victor Steiner-Davion commanding, backing up Victor was Leftenant-Colonel Archer Christifori, Leftenant-General Andrew Redburn of the Kathil Uhlans and Danai Centrella along with eight of the most elite Mech pilots in the Tenth Lyran.
After a long fought battle on the desert plains of Strana Mechty the Smoke Jaguars were defeated with particular honour going to Archer Christifori who single handily destroyed three Smoke Jaguar Mechs, saving the trial from being a loss, before being badly injured when a Smoke Jaguar Kingfisher smashed into the side of the Colonel‘s Penetrator knocking it to the ground.
The second trial took place in the forests west of Strana Mechty’s Capital, and the Capitol of the Clans, Katyusha City the St Ives Compact’s Elite First St Ives Lancers commanded by Duke Kai Allard-Liao against them were Khan Vladimir Ward, leader of Clan Wolf, and his command Keshik one of the best the Clans fielded. In a massive battle, that boiled down to a duel between Vlad and Kai, which Kai won just, the two sides could not be separated and the trial was deemed a draw.
The third trial was grudge match that needed to be settled or trouble would erupt. The Star Adders, commanded by Khan Cassius N’Buta in his Kingfisher, against a Draconis Combine company from the First Genyosha led by Coordinator Hohiro Kurita. In another tough battle the two sides dragged out a draw as the Draconis Combine lost almost all its Mechs but the Star Adders lost Khan Cassius N’Buta when a laser blast from Coordinator Hohiro’s Dire Wolf penetrated the cockpit killing the Star Adder Khan.
Following two draws the trial was still only one Inner Sphere victory to none on the clan side after three trials. The fourth trial was another grudge match although this one was a lot older than the Star Adder/Draconis Combine one. This battle featured the Jade Falcons and the ComGuards the Jade Falcons, led by Khan Marthe Pryde in her Summoner, OmniMech were looking for blood from the ComGuards of Invader Galaxy looking to repay the ComGuards for the ComGuards defeat of Clan forces on Tukayyid in 3050.
Blinded by rage the Jade Falcons charged in close negating their range advantage and were torn to shreds by the coordinated and controlled ComGuards. The Warriors of Invader Galaxy had specifically been trained to fight like the Clans. This victory took the score to two-to-nothing in favour of the Inner Sphere.
The fifth trial was the Blood Spirits against the Free Worlds League’s Second Knights of the Inner Sphere under the command of Colonel Sir Paul Masters, commander of the First Knights currently still on Huntress with the majority of Serpent. In a short deadly battle the Blood Spirits proved that although they were not the biggest Clan they were still far from docile eliminating nearly every Free Worlds League Mech before the end of the Trial. This Clan victory took the scores to two-to-one in favour of the Inner Sphere.
The sixth trial took place in the just inside Strana Mechty’s artic circle in the far northern reaches of the planet. The Capellan Confederation against Clan Fire Mandrill, in another short but equally brutal battle the Red Lancer company of the Capellan Confederation handed the Clan Fire Mandrill binary, led by their Khan Amanda Carrol, another Clan defeat. Three-One Inner Sphere.
The seventh trial featured Clan Hell’s Horses against the Free Rasalhague Republic’s Fourth Drakons. In the only trial to feature vehicle vs. vehicle combat instead of purely battle armour and Mech battles the Hell’s Horses superior technology edged the Clan to victory defeating the Fourth Drakons in a classic tank/cavalry battle. Three-Two Inner Sphere.
The eighth trial was important to this either the Clans won it or the Inner Sphere was victor before the ninth trial had even begun. Clan Stone Rhino claimed the honour and the hopes of all the Clans. Led by the newly risen Khan Elizabeth Radick the Stone Rhino’s faced a company from the Lyran Alliance‘s First Royal Guards RCT, the Stone Rhinos proved to everyone they were a Clan to be reckoned with by handing the Lyran force a resounding defeat losing only one Mech to the Lyran force‘s complete decimation. Three-Three with one Trial remaining.
The penultimate trial was Clan Ice Hellion against the twelve warrior of Task Force Serpent representing the Star League Defence Force. Commanded by Marshal Morgan Hasek-Davion supported by Major Neil Campbell, of the Royal Black Watch, the entire company was painted up in the colours of the Star League and displayed the Cameron Star with no nation symbols. At the sight of this, and especially the Royal Black Watch insignia on Campbell’s newly repaired Highlander the Ice Hellions went crazy charging in with reckless abandon. Following this reaction any strategy went out of the window and the battle became a deadly point blank battle quickly. In a close run affair the battle ended when Morgan’s Dire Wolf brought down the Ice Hellion Khan’s Visigoth OmniFighter and Neil Campbell crushed saKhan Sellen Cage’s disabled Linebacker. The Ice Hellion saKhan refused to surrender and continued to fire at Inner Sphere Mechs she could see so Neil Campbell crushed the Mech’s head under the foot of his Highlander ending the threat posed. Four-Three Inner Sphere with two draws, the Inner Sphere had defeated the Khans of the Clans in a Trial of Refusal and shown all the Clans that they were an adversary worth respect.
Refusal War
Hall of the Khans, Strana Mechty
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
23rd April 3060
Following three days of trials by the Clans the leaderships of several clans had changed, some due to necessity with their leaders dying in battle, others through pure need for change. Commanding-General Victor Steiner-Davion was allowed into the Hall of the Khans with Kai Allard-Liao and Marshal Morgan Hasek-Davion as his escorts. Victor reputed the Clan’s combined war of aggression against the Inner Sphere and called for an immediate end to Operation Revival, the Clan Invasion of the Inner Sphere. IlKhan Lincoln Osis countered by saying the Inner Sphere forces had only been victorious with their use of Clan technology in almost every trial, Victor countered by saying that it was his belief that superior warriors had won the day a sentiment supported by the Clan Diamond Shark and Clan Ghost Bear Khans.
Lincoln Osis challenges Victor to a trial involving Victor and Lincoln alone. Victor chooses the location as the Hall of the Khans and the armaments as swords. The two fight Victor using his own Katana, gifted to him by Hohiro years before, and with Lincoln using a short blade. For the first time ever blood is spilled on the floors of the Hall of the Khans as Victor expertly removes the ilKhan’s head ending the Clan Invasion of the Inner Sphere once and for all. Victor addresses the Clan leaders and warns them that if the Clans come to the Inner Sphere again looking for trouble the Star League will answer them and that if the Clans commit crimes against humanity like the Smoke Jaguars did then they would pay for it with their deaths.
Over the next several days the Clans agree to allow an Inner Sphere garrison to remain on Huntress in the capital Lootera with an official Star League Ambassador to the Grand Council, Victor selects Colonel Sir Paul Masters, who graciously accepts and becomes the first Ambassador. For his first act Paul Masters informs Khan Bjorn Jorgensson of his marooning of Ghost Bear civilians in the periphery and saKhan Karl Devalis challenges Colonel Neil Campbell over the Royal Black Watch, although the real reason is Karl is angry at Sellen’s death. Campbell defeats Karl and the issue is set to rest, for now. The Inner Sphere forces return to Huntress and after a few days leave Clan space on the long trek back to the Inner Sphere leaving the First and Second Knights of the Inner Sphere on Huntress to guard the newly established Star League Consulate. The post would change guard every three years with a new SLDF unit replacing the last, only proper full-time SLDF Units not mercenary or House units under SLDF Flag would be allowed to guard the Consulate.
Hall of the Khans, Strana Mechty
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
27th April 3060
Khan Bjorn Jorgensson informs the Khans of all the Clans that Clan Ghost Bear have moved their abandonment of almost all the Homeworlds territory and the moving of their entire civilian population out of the Clan Homeworlds into their Occupation Zone, which from now on will be known as the Ghost Bear Dominion.
Following this announcement there is widespread call for the Ghost Bears Adjournment over this however Khan Santin West, in conjunction with the Khans of Clan Snow Raven and Diamond Shark are able to sway the vote in the Ghost Bears favour saving the Clan from heavy damage and any serious retribution from the other Clans reminding the Khans that the Ghost Bears had only done what the Great Father and the Founder said they should eventually do - return to the Inner Sphere.
The Survivors of Clan Smoke Jaguar are absorbed into the other Clans as a mass of trials erupts over Clan space, which will last for the next year, all about claiming all Smoke Jaguar and Ghost Bear territories at the same time Clan Nova Cat abandons its Circe holdings causing even more wildfire trails to be set off. Clan Nova Cat saKhan Karl Devalis leaves the Homeworlds with the majority of the Mystic Naval Star, four of the six WarShips lowering the Nova Cat Homeworld WarShips to five vessels, also along are almost all the Nova Cat civilians remaining in the Homeworlds and more importantly the WarShips also carry copies of all genetic legacies held by the Nova Cat Genetic Repositories on Strana Mechty and Barcella. This move alone signals the Nova Cats biggest step towards completing their move to the Inner Sphere, not only are they moving all civilians but they are taking their Genetic Legacies, signalling a complete withdrawal and an abandonment of the Clan Homeworlds by the Nova Cats.
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Third Federated Commonwealth Corps RCT Command Meeting
Argos City, Glastonbury Continent
New Aragon, Federated Suns
8th May 3060
Meanwhile back in the Federated Suns something was happening that would spoil Victor’s victory on Strana Mechty. When he had officially ended the Federated Commonwealth and revived the Federated Suns Victor had given the warriors of the six remaining Federated Commonwealth Corps RCTs a choice remain in the Federated Suns and be reassigned, return to the Lyran Alliance and enrol with the LAAF or resign your commission and leave the AFFS. The Third FedCom Corps had been a problem unit for some years, ever since they were thrown off Sarna during the Marik/Liao Invasion of 3057 a world they had formed a bond with during the years and was now on the brink of being captured by the Capellan Confederation. Sarna and a nearby world, Sakhalin, had formed the Sarna Supremacy following the AFFC withdrawal and amazingly although surrounded on all sides they had found mercenaries and support from some AFFS Generals and the St Ives Compact and been able to resist Capellan take over. Unfortunately they could not hold up forever, unless they got professional help Hauptmann General Charles Finnigan, the Third still retained their FedCom Rank structure, stood in front of his people “The First Prince made a choice, one which I respect, I could serve the AFFS and be proud. However I know this unit and its desire to return to Sarna, my desire is to return to Sarna and defend the people we failed. I will not stop anyone resigning or try to influence anyone else’s decision however I will be leaving as soon as it is viable. Your opinions, speak now, nothing will be said.â€
“Sir†Leftenant General Fred Perry, commander of the Aerospace Brigade’s two wings spoke up “I have spoken to my people, many of them have spoken of Sarna and our failure, even some of the new recruits. All of them agree that if you are going they are going and they are going to right past wrongs even if it means they will be labelled criminals and even though they could die trying.â€
“My people said similar things, although I will not be joining them, the AFFS is my home and I will remain.†Leftenant General Shaw Perry was one of the most experienced officers in the entire RCT and the commander of the two Armour Regiments said, the loss of the such an experienced armour officer hurt but no-one said anything, he had made his choice.
“Almost all our infantry will come I think perhaps a regiment at the most will remain, many of the Capellan March recruits want to fight the Confederation and see this as a perfect opportunity, the veterans want payback for our previous failures.†Leftenant General Jessica Mao commander of the six infantry regiments said, that was a serious force and they included an entire Battalion of Battle Armour troopers outfitted in Cavalier and the new Infiltrator Mk. II Battle Armour making them a major player on any field of battle.
“What of our Mech force?†Charles asked his Aide Kommondant Pat Rutherford, the most junior member present.
“A couple of the new pilots won’t come, they are straight out of boot and still ingrained in the AFFS Mentality. So we will probably be minus a company or two on the Mech front but still two reinforced Battalions is a serious force, the Capellans will get a nasty shock.â€
“Right then it is settled, let’s do this properly. Anyone wanting in on our little adventure into the unknown resigns from the AFFS and AFFC effective immediately. They also check their kit onto a DropShip and we take off in six hours before anyone can stop us. Shaw as the most senior person staying you will be in your right to demand we leave our equipment…â€
“Not going to happen sir, I am still a member of the Regiment whatever happens.†Shaw Perry said breaking in. I will get a message sent to New Avalon in a couple of days saying you took most of the regiment on manoeuvres and haven’t come back, the troops left behind will say the same. You will be considered a rogue and a thief but there is little I can do about that. And the High Command are unlikely to send a force after you so deep in enemy territory.†The Sarna Supremacy was several jumps inside the Capellan Confederations borders, the Third would be in danger with every jump.
“Thank You, Major-General Perry.†Charles said walking around the table giving Shaw an on the spot promotion “and don’t worry about it being rescinded. I promoted everyone a month ago†he said with a sly smile on his face “when I came up with this hair brained idea. Anyone who looks at my logs will see that anyone that has remained carried out the duties of a superior rank to their full ability so no promotions will be rescinded although they may be resented by some of their pears they are Members of the Third in Heart at least and I am sure you can handle it.†He said looking to Shaw who nodded before Charles turned to the rest of the command staff “Now to Sarna.†Charles he said, six hours later almost all nine regiments of the Third FedCom lifted off in DropShips heading away to join their JumpShips, little more than a Battalion remained of the RCT. Major General Shaw Perry as acting commander of the Third would report the that the RCT was missing in action three days later just after the JumpShips left.
Although the AFFS declared the members of the Third thieves and rogues for taking their equipment and abandoning their posts no charges or bounties were placed on any of the troops by the High Command. The remaining battalion of the Third Federated Commonwealth Corps RCT was similarly not charged with failing to protect AFFS assets from theft and was folded into the First New Aragon Borderers, the planet‘s home grown unit. With Shaw Perry being made Regimental commander of the unit and the Borderers gaining permission to increase to RCT status.
Philip Drummond City
New Barcella, Primary Spaceport
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
12th June 3060
As the massive egg-shaped Overlord-class DropShips dropped through atmosphere of the Nova Cat’s Capitol World towards their new capital city Oathmaster Jal Steiner, MechWarrior Zane Carns and MechWarrior Camilla looked out the view ports and each made an involuntary gasp, New Barcella was a beautiful world. From this altitude all you could see was water and a tiny landmass in the northern continent, as the DropShip approached the ground the vessel orientated its nose to the sky allowing the vessel to land at the planets massive Spaceport, in the last year the Nova Cat civilians had done a wonderful job, the Rosse Spaceport was an expansive ultra-modern facility with bays for dozens of DropShips. To make up for the limited landmass about half the facility was built over the water on reclaimed land.
Stepping onto the tarmac the tree warriors looked around, just beyond the spaceport was the Nova Cat’s capital the Philip Drummond City, a sprawling metropolis named for one of the Nova Cat Founders, and home to nearly four million of the Nova Cat’s on planet population of six million population. The Nova Cats had modelled the city loosely on the Capital city of all the Clans, Katyusha City on Strana Mechty.
The City was at its core a five pointed star splitting the city into five sections, or quarters, of order and caste. The Northern section was the Warriors, the Eastern section was dedicated to the Clans Scientists, the south-eastern section was Merchants section, while the south-western section was the Labourer’s section while the Western section was dedicated to the Clans Technicians. From orbit the city looked like a massive Star crossed by several man-made rivers. In time it was likely that in time the areas between the caste sections would be filled by habitats of all castes as the Nova Cat population grew but for now it was perfect. In the centre of the city the Nova Cats were building a massive Neo-Gothic building which would tower over all others, this would be the Clan’s new Primary Genetic Repository once they transferred the Clan’s Genetic Legacies from Strana Mechty.
To the far north of the City there was a massive one hundred kilometre national park, the Way’s of Seeing’ which extended right to the most Northern ocean coast. This park is the most important thing to the whole of Nova Cat society, here was where Bloodname trials and the Oathmaster’s Grand Melee would take place, as well as being home to dozens of Nova Cats transplanted to New Barcella from their Homeworld of Dagda. The Way’s of Seeing Park was for now guarded by an entire Cluster of Elementals taken from ever Cluster in the Nova Cat Touman and for now would be sealed until both Khans and the Oathmaster were on New Barcella then the Nova Cats held there would be released and the whole Clan would be able to enjoy this Clan treasure.
The other four million Nova Cat civilians was spread out over the other six planets of the Nova Cat’s Den. “Star Commander Carns, ensure our equipment is offloaded and stored somewhere appropriate. I am going into the capital, I want to see the city up close.†Jal Steiner said wandering off out of the regional spaceport in the Warrior Section.
“Aye, Oathmaster, do you want an escort, Quineg?†Zane didn’t think the Oathmaster would need an escort on the Nova Cat Capital but being part of his bodyguard Keshik he had to be certain.
“Neg, I will be fine, keep out of trouble.â€
“Aff, Oathmaster, you too†Camilla said turning walking back into the DropShip, although she lacked rank or Bloodname her Smoke Jaguar arrogance sometimes showed itself through.
“Camilla, I think we need another talk.†Zane said walking up behind the former Smoke Jaguar, the recent news of the demise of her old Clan had not dulled her feelings or attitude much at all.
Celestial Throne Room
Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City), Sian
Capellan Confederation
13th June 3060
When Sun-Tzu Liao found out Victor Steiner-Davion, Hohiro Kurita and Kai Allard-Liao had been out of the Inner Sphere fighting the Smoke Jaguars he began to plan his conquest of the St Ives Compact, knowing that this is his chance to attack when most of his major political enemies are gone from the Inner Sphere. The Blackwind Lancers seem to be the perfect key for this lock and Sun-Tzu begins to turn the lock cutting back on all Chaos March activities as the Confederation prepares to crush the breakaway state.
Clan Occupation Zones
Clan Wolf/Ghost Bear Territory
14th June 3060
Clan Ghost Bear initiate three Trials of Possession for worlds in the Clan Wolf Occupation Zone. Following three fast brutal Trials Clan Ghost Bear emerges victorious and welcomes three new worlds into the newly christened Ghost Bear Dominion. Clan Wolf remain completely silent following this with Khan Vlad Ward having eyes for only one goal not wasting forces in tiny Trials instead waiting for their long term target, the Conquest of Terra.
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Lot of reading to do!
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Lot of reading to do!
One of the reasons I held off posting the whole thing in the past, there's a lot to follow which was why I stuck to bullet point timeline for as long as I did.
Hopefully it's enjoyable like this? And easy enough to follow?
Here's July...
Sirius/Procoyn
Chaos March
15th July 3060
In 3057 the Free Worlds League had reclaimed half of the Sirius Concordance during Operation Guerrero however Thomas Marik refused the right to reclaim the other two worlds. As a result Sirius and Procoyn fell into the Chaos March and under the influence of the insane Alexander Gyrn a former ComStar Adept.
In 3060 the three Sirius Regiments acted against Free Worlds League Militia orders when reports of atrocities being committed on both worlds by a former ComStar Adept Alexander Gyrn. Following a quick battle and victory General Helen Thrall overall commander of the three Sirian Lancer Regiments became de-facto Primus and Military Governor of the four Sirius Concordance worlds.
First order of duty was to expel all ComStar and all Word of Blake personnel along with anyone thought to have links to either organisation. This effectively cut the Sirius Concordance off from the Inner Sphere. All three Regiments then began rebuilding their shattered worlds while keeping a look out for any FWLM incursions. Helen Thrall dispatches orders to all her units that any FWLM unit is to be considered hostile but not fired upon unless they fire first or try to arrest the Sirian Lancers.
Deep Space Recharge Point
Forward Observation Deck
FSS Intrepid, Fox-class Corvette
19th July 3060
Now totally clear of Clan Space and heading back to the Inner Sphere Commanding-General First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion stood in the main observation deck aboard the Intrepid, the Fox-class Corvette that currently served as his Flagship and the vessel he’d taken to Huntress then Strana Mechty to rescue Task Force Serpent and end the Clan invasion. Beside his stood Federated Suns Marshal of Armies Morgan Hasek-Davion, his left arm bandaged heavily after a heavy fall during the final battle on Strana Mechty during the Refusal War, the two men stood in silence looking out over the depths of space. This part of space was probably the busiest in known space at present and was filled with almost a dozen WarShip and well over a hundred JumpShips not to mention the hundreds of attached DropShips or the thousands of warriors. Most were members of Task Force Bulldog’s rescue army while others were survivors of Task Force Serpent and the hell-hole that was Huntress, the members of Serpent were in a minority but also garnered the greatest respect of the entire task force. Victor hadn’t asked Morgan of the Huntress Campaign, he hadn’t needed to, he’d seen the casualty list that had been enough the Smoke Jaguars had fought to their last breath and taken many warriors from Serpent with them, maimed dozens more and traumatised many more some would never leave that world because what had happened but Victor would make sure all were honoured for their sacrifices. “Sire, what are you thinking?†Morgan asked, seeing Victor was lost in thought.
“I was thinking how long will it be until the next crisis.†Victor said, his voice sounded slightly weary, Morgan could understand why. Since the start of the Clan War Victor had been fighting constantly either the Clans or internal problems of the Federated Commonwealth. Since his father’s passing in 3051, then his mothers assassination in late 3055, he had been in charge of the entire Federated Commonwealth as well and had been thrown into the political arena, something he was never prepared for something he had always put off till tomorrow then tomorrow was there in front of him. Morgan had supported Victor as much as he could but he knew his First Prince regretted so much of the past because of mistakes he made through inexperience. Then his sister had taken away half the realm, shattering his father’s dream, following the Marik/Liao Invasion in the late 3050s an invasion caused by another of Victor‘s mistakes. Morgan silently wondered if his First Prince was not looking to the next crisis but his next mistake? A thought he could not entertain.
“Well, I can think of three possibilities.†Morgan said quietly Victor nodded for him to continue. “Number one, is unfortunately from the family, your sister Katherine. She would do anything to gain the Federated Suns as well as the Lyran Alliance. You weakened her position by returning all Federated Suns Armed Forces from the Alliance space but she may still try to use the dozens of Lyran born nationals in the army against you.â€
“Katherine will do anything barring a full scale invasion.†Victor agreed, it was a shame his sister had turned against him, what would his father have thought? “What’s number two?â€
“That there†Morgan said pointing out the window with his right arm at the DCS Takashi, the Kirishima-class Cruiser, the vessel presently served as the flagship of Hohiro Kurita, Coordinator of the Draconis Combine.
“Morgan, I thought you were past such things. Hohiro is a friend and the DCMS is hardly in a position to seriously threaten the Federated Suns and according to DMI reports it will be that way for the next five to ten years. The Kurita family is not like the Liaos, they do not make silly choices over war and the Draconis Combine still have a Clan baring down on them in the Ghost Bears, which is arguably the strongest of the Clans in the Inner Sphere.†Victor said, the Draconis Combine was still an enemy of the Federated Suns but the Smoke Jaguars had taken a lot out of them, they were little threat, and although the Draconis March in the Federated Suns could be a problem looking for an enemy to strike now the Clans were not breathing down the Inner Sphere’s neck Victor did not consider the Draconis Combine to be his biggest threat.
“I do not mean the Draconis Combine, sire†Morgan said respectfully “I mean Hohiro Kurita. He may be your friend and comrade-in-arms, however, your relationship with his sister could start a war between our realms or a civil war within our own. It is not my place to say you are wrong to follow your heart but Omi and you can never be together as long as you are First Prince of the Federated Suns, and even if you were not First Prince you would still be shunned by society within the Combine and the Federated Suns because of the histories of our families.â€
“I know Morgan, there is little I can do about my feelings for Omi. Hohiro knows where I stand on that subject, I spoke to Omi before I left for the Homeworlds. I will not see her again.†Victor said his voice full of regret, he loved Omi and possibly always would but their relationship could never blossom to anything permanent. That had happened before and had come close to causing a major war between the Federated Suns and the Draconis Combine before the First Star League had stepped in the way. The Star League of today could not step in and stop a full scale war between the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine and Victor would not push his nation against him or cause a war perhaps more devastating than even the Clan war by pursuing a relationship that could never work.
“It may feel wrong now, but it will be proven correct in the long run.†Morgan said quietly as the doors opened and someone else entered, if it had been a member of the crew or the Tenth Lyran or any of the surviving Uhlans on board they would have noticed Morgan and Victor and left, this person stayed in the room but at a respectful distance, both men quickly realised it could be only one person.
“And the third possible crisis?†He asked quietly so the new person could not hear.
“Just walked in the door†Morgan said in an equally hushed voice “excuse me my lord but this old warrior needs his beauty sleep.†Morgan said excusing himself passing by the newcomer. Victor turned to watch him leave and pondered the Marshal of Armies words before looking at the newcomer, Danai Centrella. Danai bowed deeply, despite her blood granted her equal footing to Morgan, if not Victor, she respected Morgan and she wanted to show him that. The Marshal nodded his thanks before continuing out of the room.
Although Victor was unsure of his feelings for her it was quite clear she liked him a lot and over the last year and a half the two had become very close friends although nothing had happened between them. A relationship with Danai was almost as bad as one with Omi, although the Magistracy of Canopus had never been on a war footing with the Federated Suns, and Victor was sure that the only time they had ever fought was centuries before during the Reunification War with Davion units under SLDF colours. The Magistracy had become very close to the Capellan Confederation lately and Danai was heir apparent for the Magistracy throne, although her sister Naomi was apparently quite capable as far as Danai was concerned. Victor crossed the room and the two crashed down on one of the decks couches in deep conversation that lasted for nearly eight hours, Victor had turned one love away he was not ready to turn another possible suitor to the side with a casual thought.
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Fox’s Teeth Block, Mess Hall
Nova Cat Watch Base, Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
12th August 3060
Although they were not one of the main planets of the Nova Cat’s Den or a planet of the Inner Sphere Tortuga Prime had gathered a lot of information on the Inner Sphere in the last few months with the aid of the Fox’s Teeth, who were still technically the Nova Cat’s Prisoners. From Tortuga Prime’s HPG, and the occasional bandit raid they had gathered a lot of information on the current state of the nearby Periphery, the Taurian Concordat and most importantly the Federated Suns. The news coming out of the Federated Suns worried the members of the Fox’s Teeth and the Rabid Fox, the population were worried Victor was not returning from the Homeworlds and that they would be stuck with the inexperienced Yvonne Steiner-Davion, a woman who had never even been a member of the AFFS. The only other people capable were Arthur Steiner-Davion, Yvonne’s younger brother a Cadet in the AFFS and Katherine Steiner-Davion, Victor’s opponent, leader of the Lyran Alliance and the woman who had broken up the Federated Commonwealth. Technically there was a fourth option in Peter Steiner-Davion however he was in isolation at some monastery in the Lyran Alliance and out of touch with the people of the Federated Suns, although he was a seasoned combat officer.
To make matters worse things across the border with the Capellan Confederation were degenerating with raids common and the Capellans slowly taking each world of the Chaos March, the unclaimed territory around Terra in the centre of the Inner Sphere.
Ross sat across from Canin Rosse in the Federated Suns block of the Watch base, since the Nova Cat warriors were warriors first and not cooks, since they had been given more leniency on the base they had become the entire bases cooks. “Things aren’t, sorry, are not†Ross corrected himself, the Clansmen did not like contractions, after all this time you would think he would remember. To Canin’s credit the Nova Cat Star Captain did not utter a word. “Things are not good in the Federated Suns, they think the Clans have stolen their First Prince, or their First Prince cares more about defending their former enemies than his own realm.â€
“I know little about the Federated Suns, other than what your people have taught me, but I have heard Victor’s name several times and each time it is mentioned it is in victory in battle. He is apparently a great warrior, even for a Spheroid†Canin said, Ross smirked every time he heard the term the Clans used for citizens of the Inner Sphere he smiled. “Victor will return from the Clans, this I am quite certain.â€
“And what of the Federated Suns?â€
“There is nothing we can do.â€
“Yes, there is. You could release us, the return of the Fox’s Teeth would boost morale in the realm and the knowledge of your Clan here would focus the Federated Suns.â€
“And make us a target?â€
“I do not believe that would happen. The Fox’s Teeth would never fight against the Nova Cats, you know us better than that by now? Quiaff?†Canin nodded “with the Fox’s Teeth as your ambassadors the Federated Suns will not strike you just like that, not to mention the power of the Nova Cat Clan and the concentration of your forces. If anyone came attacking the Nova Cats they would find an entrenched force, something no-one wants to fight.†Canin nodded but it still looked like he was sceptical about the plan.
“I can not authorise that, we need something from the Khan or the saKhan.â€
“Neither of whom are in the Cat’s Den, who makes the big choices when they are gone?†Ross asked recently all the Fox’s Teeth had been shortening name and Canin had heard several Nova Cats do the same, he did not know if he liked it or not.
“The Oathmaster returned with Delta Galaxy. According to reports from New Barcella the saKhan will be back in the Den around December, the Khan in late 3061.†Canin said then realised he had just used the shortened name as well.
“Wait, all the Nova Cat leadership will be here in the Den, isn’t that dangerous, what if something major happens in the Homeworlds.â€
“It will not, besides when the saKhan arrives the Oathmaster will return to the Homeworlds†Canin said.
“Can I go to New Barcella?â€
“We have been over this about a million times, you are a member of a potential enemy of my Clan. I can not endanger our position until the time is right.â€
“Canin, I class myself as your friend, as many of the other members of my command do. I promise you I will not compromise your Clan, can I show you something?†Ross asked, that marked the first time Ross had used Canin’s, or any Clansmen’s, first name.
“Aff†Canin said.
“We need to be in space, and at a certain co-ordinate in this system.†Ross said looking at Rachel who sat across the room she nodded, Canin followed his glance at the Leftenant then looked back to Ross.
“I will call a shuttle down from one of the WarShips in the morning. If it is a trick you die Captain, then I return here and kill all your men. They will be given no chance to defend themselves and be executed like dogs.†Canin was deadly serious, he was in no mood for a trick by the Spheroids who had become his friends but were still enemies of the Nova Cats.
“It is not a trick.†Canin rose to his feet and the two men shook hands before Canin moved to the exit, Ross had made a choice that would compromise Federated Suns intelligence for years but he didn‘t care his men came first.
“You can come as well if you wish Leftenant.†He said before walking out the door.
“Indeed, Star Captain, I will be there.†She said then moved over to Ross' position “you know what you are doing, Quiaff?†she asked using the Clan interrogative without thinking Ross looked at her and she realised what she had said “we need to get the hell off this rock before we are more Nova Cat than Federated Suns.â€
“I think it is too late for that Rachel. The Nova Cats have allowed us to maintain our ways however we have been here for over a year, we know them almost as well as we know ourselves. The Nova Cats want to set us free, I can tell, they don’t want to make an enemy of the Federated Suns.â€
“So you will tell them all the locations?â€
“Yup, We will all the locations we know.†Ross said, the chances of them ever being able to put more to replace them were slim but it would be a massive step towards freedom and that was more important to Ross.
“I just hope we are getting combat pay for all this, I might be able to retire after this little tour. Not that I would mind you, but it would be nice to know I could.â€
“Wouldn’t be the same without you, Leftenant.†Ross said touching her hand, Rachel twisted her own hand and placed her palm face up linking fingers with Ross, things between them were changing as well as their beliefs and even the Nova Cats wouldn’t understand them.
Chronicle (Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser)
Deep in Tortuga system
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
14th August 3060
The shuttle had picked the three warriors up and taken them into orbit, in standard Tortuga Prime orbit the Chronicle, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, had waited for them. Ross had provided the vessel’s commander with information and coordinates in each of the former Tortuga Dominions systems and directed the Nova Cats to investigate.
Almost twenty-four hours later Canin Rosse was in the gym inside one of the Chronicle’s gravity decks, he hated space travel and found the only way he could stop himself from throwing up constantly was to stay in constant motion and stay on the gravity decks as much as possible. Because the vessel was moving it was not too bad as there was a semblance of gravity across the vessel, but as soon as the vessel’s main engines cut the gravity would go also. Then there was a communication from the bridge “Star Captain Canin Rosse to the bridge, Star Captain Canin Rosse report to the bridge immediately.†The vessel commander said. Canin got off the machine and headed for the bridge.
Arriving about five minutes later he found Ross and Rachel had been summoned from their secure quarters as well, behind them were two Elemental guards in full battle armour minus their SRM launchers which were far too bulky for use within the WarShip and too dangerous even if they were not bulky. Even minus the backpack launchers the Elementals still looked uncomfortable in the confined area most modern Clan WarShips were designed to accommodate Elemental Battle Armour in all areas but the Aegis-class was a design that dated back to the first Star League and the Chronicle itself, as with all Nova Cat Aegis-class Cruisers, had served SLDF Commanding-General Aleksandr Kerensky‘s Exodus Army all those centuries ago. “We have arrived Star Captain, what now?†the vessel commander asked.
“Captain, Leftenant, you heard the skipper. What now?†Canin asked. Ross produced a small piece of paper and handed it to Canin, looking at the paper all he saw were numbers. “What is this?â€
“Have your sensors modulated to this frequency and have communications broadcasting as much static as possible in the immediate vicinity. This will lower the stealth systems of a nearby Davion communication’s satellite, I’m surprised no-one has come looking for it by now but obviously the War against Clan Smoke Jaguar has everyone’s attention.†Ross said quietly the DMI were normally quite methodical about their check ups on the systems but this one had obviously slipped through the nets.
“And once it is detectable?â€
“Its sensors will shutdown, the hard drive memory cores will wipe and then the satellite will self destruct.â€
“How do we capture it?†The ships commander asked.
“We cannot, sir, you have to be on a special vessel to access the files needed to safely deactivate the security protocols, the satellite has no communication gear of its own, only sensors. Mission Standard Operations has a JumpShip with the code jump in at a pirate point every six months transmit the code, get the information and jump out before anyone can react.â€
“Transmit the code and make sure we are broadcasting as much static as possible.†Canin said looking at the vessel’s commander who looked shocked that he was going along with them.
“You cannot trust them! They are members of a foreign nations army.â€
“I trust them, the people on the ground are dead if they lie and then the Federated Suns will have a whole new problem.†Canin warned neither Federated Suns warrior made any move or looked away from Canin. Five minutes later the Chronicle’s crew was ready and they broadcast the signal, a small satellite became visible on the sensors roughly fifty metres from the Chronicle then within thirty seconds its core exploded destroying the satellite.
“No transmissions detected†the communications officer said.
“Sir, we were able to scan the satellite it had no communications just as we had been advised.†the sensor operator said, that did make the two Federated Suns officers look at each other, neither had expected the Chronicle’s sensors to be that quick, not that they were hiding anything.
“Ross, are there anymore in this system?â€
“Unknown, that satellite was our link, it is the same one I have used a dozen times on previous missions to Tortuga. I can show you where the rest of the satellites are in the other systems if you would like. And Rachel can show your sensor operators how to scan for that specific model.â€
“I thought it had stealth systems.â€
“Your sensors are better than we thought.†Rachel said. No point in lying now, they had just betrayed the DMI and the Federated Suns by betraying the satellite network.
“Transmit the information to the other WarShips, I want a full scan of the system. Then take us to the next system, I want to disable this net.â€
“With them onboard?â€
“Aff, they have not betrayed us yet and their life is still forfeit if they do anything stupid. We carry on, and with them things will go far quicker.†Canin said, technically the decision was not his to make but the ship captain did not complain and the Chronicle began making jump preparations “thank you†Canin said to the two Federated Suns officers, the WarShip jumped on the start of a thirty day cruise round the former Tortuga Dominions disabling a total of eighteen satellites in the six systems. The Nova Cats also checked the New Barcella and the Varnay systems just in-case there was anything there, they found nothing.
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Chronicle (Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser)
Deep in New Gascony system
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
22nd September 3060
The Chronicle was heading back towards the Jump point of the New Gascony system to recharge its jump drive after taking out the last of the spy satellites, not a single satellite had been checked in the last six months the Nova Cats had gotten lucky, when the WarShip Righteous Return, a Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette, appeared in the system via a pirate point. The ship immediately sent over a shuttlecraft with an important visitor aboard, Oathmaster Jal Steiner.
Canin was awoken in the early hours of the morning by a big enamoured elemental warrior “sir, you are needed in Gravity Deck Alpha immediately.â€
“What time is it?â€
“3am, sir.â€
“You are joking Quineg?†Canin said sitting up he knew the answer already as the elemental looked completely confused by his question “alright tell them I am on my way. Why have we no gravity?†He asked noticing that nothing was dragging him towards the deck.
“The main engines have stopped.â€
“Stopped? What are we doing sightseeing?†He asked irritated, the New Gascony system was inhabited by just over two hundred thousand people, the Nova Cats had looked through the system several times and found virtually nothing they could use there for military purposes but that the ground on New Gascony would be perfect for food production so ninety percent of the people on the planet were now learning to be farmers and the other ten percent of the population were scientists trying to come up with new methods of making better crops.
Dressing Canin headed for the gravity deck in the zero-gravity environment, by the time he got there he was feeling very sick. At the doors a pair of Elementals in full Battle Armour escorted him to the briefing room. Walking inside Canin found Oathmaster Jal Steiner, Ross McKinnon and Rachel Montgomery in deep discussion. “What is going on?â€
“Star Captain, please join us†Jal Steiner said, Canin crossed to room to the coffee machine and poured himself a strong cup then took up a position at the other end of the briefing room. “Star Captain, as I have just been explaining to our Federated Suns guests I experienced a vision last night on New Barcella.†That got his attention but Canin continued to drink his coffee, he’d need several more drinks before he‘d be fully awake.
“As soon as I experienced the vision I contacted the saKhan and he authorised me to take this action, Star Colonel.†Jal Steiner said looking at Canin who put the cup down “as of now you are promoted to rank Star Colonel Canin Rosse, and authorised to raise the Watch strength to full cluster.â€
“Congratulations†Ross and Rachel said immediately both looked totally surprised but genuine in their congratulations, this is not what they had been talking about.
“Why?†Canin asked, there had been no Trial of Position to gain this rank and as far as he knew the Watch would not be doing anything special.
“Star Colonel, I do not know if you realise but when I became Oathmaster I also took over direct command of the Watch.†Canin nodded officially the Watch were under the Oathmaster’s office, but that still didn’t explain why he was being promoted without trial or why the Watch were being raised in strength, although it did occur to him that this change would allow him to try out a new idea he had been playing about with recently.
“I did realise, Oathmaster. But why the promotion? The increase in strength? And why are you here? What did the vision tell you?â€
“The promotion because you have been able to put your crusader ambitions and beliefs to one side to follow our Clan’s path.†Jal said, Canin had been one of the more vocal cadets that the Nova Cats should have fought in the Trials against the other Clans to earn the right to enter the Inner Sphere during Operation Revival. Since becoming a warrior he had been quieter and although he would still consider himself a minor Crusader he was also a minor Warden warrior following his time with the Fox‘s Teeth. “The increase in strength? Firstly because a promotion means a bigger command and secondly because it is time the Nova Cats begin acting in the Periphery, we have secured the Den, it is time to stretch our claws. Why am I here? The vision sent me here†he said an turned to the two Federated Suns officers “it sent me here to you.â€
“To us?†Ross asked stunned, in all his time with the Nova Cats he had never understood the visions they experienced and believed in.
“Aff, your nation although powerful is uncertain, it could turn anywhere for strength, it could strike us here or it could turn to its worse enemy. My vision told me this, the only way we can defend our position here is if we have a strong ally beside us and the only way we can strengthen the Federated Suns is if we give them a gift and return some missing heroes.â€
“Us?†Rachel asked.
“Aff, I have discussed it with saKhan Karl Devalis who is on-board a WarShip en route to the Nova Cat’s Den. He has agreed to allow me to carry out these orders. Star Colonel, your unit will escort the Fox’s Teeth to the New Avalon system, and with you, you will take the Varnay-class Battleship Thunderchild.â€
“Varnay?†Ross and Rachel both said at the same time, they knew that name, it had been a throne in the Federated Suns sides for centuries and had caused millions of deaths in a bloody civil war.
“Oathmaster, the Thunderchild is the biggest find in centuries, we cannot turn over the vessel and surely you cannot mean use it in anger, the Nova Cat techs can not have restored it in such a short length of time.â€
“Neg, the vessel is still barely capable of making the trip but we can and we must turn it over to the Federated Suns.†Jal Steiner said “we have not enough resources to upgrade the Battleship, and it will show the Federated Suns we mean no harm to them.â€
“Or it will tare the nation apart.†Ross said, the two Nova Cats looked to Ross “the Varnay family are not popular in the Federated Suns. If it is made public knowledge that the flagship of that family exists, it could cause trouble lots of trouble, it could even spark another Civil War.â€
“Then what would you suggest?â€
“We enter the New Avalon system in two places, one WarShip, a large Nova Cat one enters at the Nadir point in clear view and turns over the Fox’s Teeth. Then once a dialogue has been established we take the Thunderchild to one of the Federated Suns shipyard’s quietly out of the limelight.†Ross said “I have codes that should get us past the New Avalon Jump Point defences.†The codes were out of date but should still work, at least Ross hoped they would.
“Fine, take them to the WarShip holding area. Take the Severn Lervoux, her presence alone should be enough to give anyone a second thought about attacking.†The Oathmaster said Canin smiled and the Oathmaster raised and left the room, the Severn Lervoux was the Nova Cat’s newest WarShip, the newly refitted Avatar-class Cruiser had been re-commissioned and codenamed as a Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, the Nova Cats honouring one of the earliest leaders of the Clan.
“Understood, we will return to Tortuga and collect the other Fox’s Teeth, the Severn Lervoux can join us there.†Canin said, no point in revealing what assets the Nova Cats had in the Varnay system he certainly decided not to tell the Federated Suns people the system‘s name following what he had heard about the Varnay family.
Hustaing, Capellan Confederation
Sian Commonality
26th September 3060
Under the influence of a Capellan Agent the St Ives Blackwind Lancers Regiment go rogue and cross the St Ives/Capellan Confederation Border and struck at the world of Hustaing, because they had been led to believe Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao was on planet. In fact the only person on planet was Duchess Isis Marik, the Chancellor’s fiancée. The Blackwind Lancers briefly secure the world but following a push by Capellan forces the Lancers begin to crumble. Although they are able to overpower the Duchess’s Death Commando Guards and decimate Warrior House Hiritsu Battalion securing Duchess Isis Marik.
Instead of bargaining for her safe return Sun-Tzu shows his true feelings for the Duchess and drops the Third McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry Regiment onto the planet along with the Dynasty Guards Regiment with orders to crush all enemy opposition. The Blackwind Lancers are soon on the back-foot and in full retreat.
Star League HPG Conference
Inner Sphere
29th September 3060
Following attacks against her nation from another Succession State, and one that was part of the Star League at that, Duchess Candice Allard-Liao requested a Star League Emergency Conference via HPG, only First Lord Thomas Marik, Elected-Prince Regent Christian Mansdotter, Regent Yvonne Steiner-Davion and Duke Minoru Kurita answer. Looking at the screens Candice could see the other Succession Lords she realised that this was not a true conference with so many of the Inner Sphere’s leaders missing or not bothered to attend, but she would pled her case anyway. “My fellow lords, three days ago the Blackwind Lancers broke the Capellan Border and assault Hustaing for unknown reasons. During the fighting they were able to safely secure most of the word and drive back its defenders however the Capellan Confederation has driven off all JumpShips and DropShips and they are unable to leave. I have sent a recall order and they still refuse to allow the Lancers to leave. If you were to allow my troops to come home, the Blackwind Lancers will be stricken from the roles of the St Ives Compact and all survivors will be dropped one rank.†She said it was a tough thing to do but it was the only way she could think that would safeguard her people and her nation.
“Duchess Allard-Liao, forgive me but, it was your forces that crossed the border illegally. If they are now trapped then it is your responsibility to rescue or reinforce them.†Minoru Kurita said quietly, so quietly Candice had to strain to hear the young Kuritan Duke.
“Duke Kurita my forces have paid a heavy price for their actions, and will pay a heavier one when they return, but we will have gained nothing from this. If I reinforce them then this Star League will be faced with its first full scale war between two states.â€
“Without Star League forces on hand there is little we can do.†Christian Mansdotter said, the entire SLDF was either in the Clan Homeworlds or still in the Draconis Combine fighting the remnants of Clan Smoke Jaguar and apparently Clan Star Adder forces on some worlds.
“The First Lord has the power to badge house units as Star League to hold the peace.â€
“Something I will not do, the only forces close enough are of Lyran or Federated Suns in origin, neither of whom the Capellans will hesitate about firing on.†Thomas Marik said, Candice reached for another piece of paper, her final throw of the dice.
“In the first strikes the Blackwind Lancers engaged a Capellan Warrior House, the Hiritsu, and some Death Commandos. Under their protection they found Duchess Isis Marik. She was injured and is now under the care of the Blackwind Lancers, the Capellans are out for blood, I cannot guarantee Isis safety.†Candice saw the pain on Thomas’s face, he had other children but Isis was still his daughter even if she had chosen to stay with a man who cared nothing for her.
“There is nothing this Star League can do, now we all have affairs of state to take care of. Excuse me.†Thomas Marik said and cut his line, the other Succession Lords each gave their condolences, although Yvonne pledged that the forces inside the St Ives Compact under her command would remain for the foreseeable future helping secure the Compact.
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Hustaing, Capellan Confederation
Sian Commonality
1st October 3060
Hearing of his daughter’s plight Captain-General Thomas Marik launches an audacious raid against the Capellan Confederation. Led by the WarShips Karelia, a Zechetinu-class Corvette, and the Menelaus, a Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser, the First and Second Free Worlds Legionaries and the First Free Worlds Guards Regiments cross the border. Two days later all three regiments drop onto Hustaing and go too work destroying both Capellan Confederation Units on planet while keeping the Blackwind Lancers at bay without attacking the Lancer base camp. The two WarShips maintained positions in orbit keeping all Capellan DropShips military or civilian at a respectful distance.
Following eight hours of solid fighting and a near complete sterilisation of the planet of all hostile Capellan Confederation forces the Blackwind Lancers turn Isis over to the Free Worlds League forces without firing a single shot unwilling to fight people they do not consider enemies to the St Ives Compact.
The FWLM units and their WarShip support then escorted the Blackwind Lancers out of the system back to the St Ives Compact while they escorted Isis Marik to Solaris VII, although Thomas did not want to see her dead he doesn’t want her back in the Free Worlds League either. From Solaris VII Isis used her access codes to bank accounts in the Free Worlds League and Capellan Confederation and caught a one-way travel pass to Luthien, capital of the Draconis Combine. It was time to look up an old friend. Following the border breach, invasion of one of his planets and assaults against his forces Sun-Tzu Liao lodges a formal complaint against the St Ives Compact and the Free Worlds League with the Star League Council. When this gets nowhere he is unwilling to push the matter against either state, instead returns forces to regaining the worlds lost in the Chaos March.
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
27th October 3060
Following an agreement between the Khans of the two Clans the Hell’s Horses assault three Clan Wolf worlds seizing them in three fast relatively bloodless Trials. The idea behind it is Khan Vlad Ward is using the Hell’s Horses greed for the resources of the Inner Sphere and their hatred of the Ghost Bears against them creating a barrier between the Ghost Bear Dominion and the Wolf Occupation Zone.
Capellan Confederation
Inner Sphere
9th November 3060
A failed assassination attempt against Capellan Confederation leader Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao, the perpetrator is never identified although the Capellans blame it on the Federated Suns, St Ives Compact, the Free Worlds League and the Star League. Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao orders his Maskirovka Intelligence Agency to purge the security at the Forbidden Palace and throughout the Forbidden City cumulating in a total of six hundred-and-forty-two Capellan deaths. He also orders Chaos March agents to increase their work and agents on the Federated Suns of Tikonov to increase their activities.
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Bridge, LAS Athens (Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser)
Nadir Jump Point, New Avalon System
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th December 3060
Archon Katrina (Katherine) Steiner-Davion sat in the rear of the LAS Athens bridge, she was strapped into the chair as the Athens lacked a gravity deck, something she had cursed during this journey, the WarShip had been created in a time when the Lyran Commonwealth (as the Lyran Alliance had been known then) needed a WarShip with no frills, capable of heavy combat, now however it would have been nice to have a gravity deck or two.
Soon however that would be over the WarShip shuddered as the Compact K-F Drive activated and the WarShip appeared in the New Avalon system, capital of the Federated Suns, her brother’s no her father’s realm.
“Archon Steiner†Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood asked, she had decided that the Athens made a far better flagship than one of the new Fox-class Corvettes still under construction. ‘Archon-Princess Katrina quietly corrected, technically she would be Archon-Prince if her plan went ahead perfectly. Since she would be the saviour of the Federated Commonwealth, brining both nations under one leader once more, she could decide on what the title was and perhaps she would make sure all her descendants were Archon-Princesses, male or female, she smiled quietly to herself she liked the idea of her son or daughter being a Princess whatever happened, then again having a son or daughter was a long way off.
Katrina had been close to three men the first Galen Cox, who had apparently died alongside her mother in a terrorist bombing, although Katrina knew that Galen had survived in Jerrard Cranston, a close friend and advisor to her brother Victor. The second had been informally Thomas Marik, he had been a friend and confidant before Katherine became Archon of the Lyran Alliance but now Thomas had remarried and was a political rival nothing more. The third man had been possibly the best, but definitely the most dangerous of the lot, Khan Vladimir Ward of Clan Wolf. Following her capture by Clan Wolf during a secret mission she was on to speak with the Khans of Clan Smoke Jaguar. During that encounter she had encountered Khan Vlad Ward and they had come to an arrangement, an arrangement she was running out of time on, they had also become close personally and still exchanged messages secretly each informing the other of potential threats to their rule or respected nation.
“What is it Fleet Admiral?†Katrina asked breaking from her thoughts, the Fleet Admiral usually allowed her to think alone without disruption.
“We have entered the New Avalon System, two Federated Suns Fox-class Corvettes are inbound, they will escort us in.â€
“Good, take us in then.†Katrina said the Athens began to slowly accelerate, then suddenly the seven hundred-and-fifty thousand ton vessel turned strongly to the port. “What the hell?!†Katrina screamed as the air was knocked out of her lungs by the suddenly enforced gravity by the move.
“Report!†Lyn Hood shouted regaining her feet.
“Enforced avoidance manoeuvre, mam†the helm officer reported.
“Kowalski I’ve told you a thousand times its Admiral or Sir not mam. What were we avoiding? I don’t see anything out there.â€
“A vessel entering the system, sir†the sensor officer said “It’s a big one too!â€
“The Federated Suns has begun building the Avalon-class Cruiser, could they be miles ahead of schedule and putting on a show for our Archon’s benefit?â€
“Possible, sir, it’s a big one that’s coming in the K-F Frequency makes it as big as us, if not bigger.â€
“The Avalon’s are twenty thousand tons heavier than the Hyperion.†Hood said remembering the basics of the Avalon-class cruiser as the vessel shimmered into existence “that is no Avalon†she said as the massive eight hundred-and-thirty thousand ton, Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, Severn Lervoux appeared and began deploying its fighters and DropShips. “Oh Hell!†She whispered looking at the massive black vessel “report!†she shouted regaining her composure.
“Unknown class, unknown configuration, closest Warbook places it is a Avatar-class Cruiser fielded with the first SLDF, the Clanners turned it into the Liberator, but that isn’t no Liberator, sir.†The sensor analyst said incredibly in control of his emotions Lyn made a mental note to keep an eye on the young officer, he could be one to watch in the future.
“Multiple contacts, I count four DropShips, two Titans, two Carriers, all are deploying fighters as is the WarShip!†The second sensor operator “two DropShips a pair of Overlord-Cs still connected to target.â€
“Give me the hard facts†Lyn Hood said looking at her screens wave after wave of Nova Cat fighters were launching from all four DropShips and the WarShip. She knew that the Titans carried thirty fighters each, the Carriers carried a further ten each that made eighty in total from them alone, double the Athens’ fighter complement of thirty-six fighters and twelve shuttles. While the two Overlords could be carrying a Cluster of troop each, once the Aerospace Fighters had secured space in the New Avalon System the two Clusters could drop on the planet and cause heavy damage to the defending units and with air supremacy the force could move its WarShips into orbit and bombard Avalon City into dust without cause of concern.
“One WarShip, bigger than us. Four Deployed DropShips, to our none. And thirteen stars of fighters giving them one hundred-and-thirty fighters when fully deployed and ready to fight to our thirty-six, still in the tubes. Both Foxes are six minutes away at top speed.†Lyn felt her heart drop the WarShip had deployed fifty fighters itself on top of the DropShips’ own complement they were in trouble, hell Lyn didn‘t think they could win this even with both Federated Suns Corvettes and every DropShip civilian or not in the system the enemy WarShip and auxiliary craft were far to powerful.
“Prepare to deploy all fighters, tell the Corvettes to come in firing.†Lyn said.
“Belay that, Helm get us out of her! Plot an immediate jump clear of the system.†Katrina said moving into the front area of the bridge “this is not our nation, my brother severed those ties.â€
“Archon…†Lyn said her voice trailing off, the two Overlord-Cs could have two full clusters aboard and if they were elite clan troops then New Avalon would receive a heavy pounding, they could delay them allow the Federated Suns to call in reinforcements.
“Do it.†Katrina said, there was total silence in the room “now Admiral or you’re relieved.†The Fleet Admiral turned back to her crew and gave the order, the Athens shimmered out of the system.
Strategic Planning and War Room
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th December 3060
Yvonne Steiner-Davion watched as the Athens, with her sister onboard, disappeared and her heart sank. “Did they just destroy the Athens?â€
“Negative Regent, the Athens jumped away.†Yvonne curses, ‘always looking for number one’ she’d trusted Katherine to come here to help but it looked as though all she was after was a foothold in Victor’s realm and as soon as it got too hot she ran. They were alone with two Fox-class Corvettes all that stood between them and an unknown WarShip and whatever forces it brought to bare. “recall the WarShips to New Avalon and have them co-ordinate with our ground forces aerospace forces. And order the Recharge Stations to issue their surrender. Then signal Marshal Jackson Davion, we are going to need his people as soon as we can get them.†She said, she just hoped the people at Hadrian’s Command had been able to do something with the secrets held there.
“What’s that WarShip doing?†Admiral Andrea Petin asked, she was in command of the Federated Suns small navy. She knew that by now a WarShip’s sensors had cleared and they had as good a picture as the people here, if not a better one. Star League-era technology, which this vessel was of, and Clan technology, the people who probably controlled her, was far better than that available to any of the Succession Lords only ComStar came close and even then in military technology it wasn‘t as close as anyone would like.
“Nothing Admiral†the sensor operator said after a couple of minutes.
“They deploy four DropShips and over one hundred fighters then do nothing? What are they up to?†Andrea muttered quietly.
“Send them a message, asking who they are and what they are doing in my system.†Yvonne said, it was the only thing she could think to do, the WarShip at the jump point could destroy everything the Federated Suns could field and then some without the Lyran WarShip for assistance the Federated Suns needed help or it needed to talk its way out of trouble.
C&C, Severn Lervoux (Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser)
Nadir Jump Point, New Avalon System
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th December 3060
The Nova Cat WarShip had briefly detected a large WarShip in the system and feared that the Federated Suns had somehow found a vessel that could challenge the Severn Lervoux, however the vessel had jumped away almost as soon as the Nova Cat DropShips and fighters had launched. Now both Recharge Stations, all JumpShips and all DropShips anywhere near the jump points had surrendered to the Severn Lervoux almost immediately, it was standard practice in the Inner Sphere for Recharge Stations to survive an assault forces arrival as the force could use the stations to recharge their own JumpShip K-F Drives. Then they received a message from New Avalon, directly from the Davion Palace, Regent Yvonne Steiner-Davion wanted to speak to them.
Inside the Servern Lervoux’s C3 Centre (Command, Communications and Control Centre), or CIC, which was located deep within the vessel like a modern WarShip with monitors giving clear outside views. Standing near the central Holo-tank Star Admiral Anders McKenna, the vessel’s commander, turned to Star Colonel Canin Rosse, as commander of the mission, who in turn turned to the two Federated Suns officers at the back of the command centre with two Elemental Guards for security.
“She is your leader, Captain.†Canin said signalling for the Federated Suns officer to step forward.
“Victor is my leader, she is just a Regent†Ross corrected “but she will do for now.†He said stepping up to comm. system and the Nova Cat tech showed him what to do. “This is Ross McKinnon, Captain, Commander Fox’s Teeth Company, Seventh Crucis Lancers RCT, Service Number FS10...1997-FT-CL.†He said just remembering his service number, he hadn’t used it for over a year. “Regent, you are invited to join us aboard the Severn Lervoux, to begin negotiations for our release and to discuss future relations.†He said the message was transmitted directly to the Davion palace. The reply took several minutes to come.
“Captain, this is Yvonne Steiner-Davion, who controls the vessel you are aboard?†The Severn Lervoux had yet to be painted up with Nova Cat insignia or colours, the hull was still mostly a deep Star League green although the Cameron Star featured on all SLDF vessels was missing from the Severn Lervoux and all Clan WarShips.
“I am not at liberty to discuss over an open channel.†He said although he knew that every succession state had at least one spy on New Avalon it would take time for them to discover it was the Nova Cats, there was no point in telling the entire system who the Severn Lervoux was commanded by. “Although I can guarantee your safety, and New Avalon’s security, there is no offensive intent here.†He said as if on cue the Nova Cat fighter’s began to dock with their mother ships, although all four deployed DropShips would remain deployed ready to drop their fighters and one full star of OmniFighters would remain deployed from the Severn Lervoux at all times maintaining a perimeter for security purposes it wouldn‘t be below the Inner Sphere states to ram a WarShip with several DropShips if their WarShips were not up to the task.
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Strategic Planning and War Room
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
19th December 3060
“We believe the Severn Lervoux is a Clan Nova Cat vessel.†Field Marshal Christian Robert McCarthy overall commander of House Davion’s DMI agency.
“Clan Nova Cat? Why would you say that? We are nowhere near a Clan border.†Yvonne said, she had never even heard of Clan Nova Cat, why was Victor not here now?
“Before the beginning of the Star League operations against Clan Smoke Jaguar ComStar informed the First Prince that Clan Nova Cat forces were near the Tortuga Dominion. A few weeks before that we had sent the Fox’s Teeth to the Tortuga Dominion. We have received no word from the Tortuga Dominions or the Fox’s Teeth since they landed on Tortuga Prime over a year ago.†Christian said continuing his briefing. “It seems that ComStar may have underestimated how many Nova Cats were in the Periphery we must assume that the Nova Cats are in control of Tortuga.â€
“Or they have signed a pact with the Tortuga Dominions and are planning a strike at our periphery borders.†Field Marshal Killian Reason, Director of the Department of Strategy and tactics said.
“Unlikely since they are sitting at New Avalon’s Nadir point after slipping through the entire Crucis March. Also Clansmen don't deal with Pirates other than with a gun, they barely negotiate with the Inner Sphere.†Major General Stephanie Hoover, Director of Intelligence on the AFFS General Staff said, the others took it on board and there was several moments of silence as they thought about what she had said. New Avalon was nearly at the centre of the Federated Suns but there had been not one message from any force, listening post or civilian about an unidentified WarShip or even a strange looking JumpShip, moving through the Federated Suns. “Where is Field Marshal Jackson Davion?†She asked, Jackson although not a senior member of the High Command was the Commander of the Davion Royal Brigade of Guards, the overall commander of New Avalon’s ground defences and he was family which right now she would like, especially with Katherine running at the first sight of the Severn Lervoux ‘so much for her coming to help me!’ she thought quietly.
“He is on detached duty from the Davion Guards.†Yvonne said looking at Christian, he nodded his agreement, there was no point in getting people’s hopes up over Hadrian’s Command. “So should I go to the Nova Cat vessel?â€
“No, Regent, with your brother still out of the Inner Sphere we cannot afford to loose you.†Christian said immediately, surprising almost everyone in the room. “Although, the Nova Cats obviously want to remain anonymous if we were to direct them to pirate point Zulu, it would hide them from all eyes except us. Then we could invite the Nova Cats here…†Christian said quietly then waited for the uproar, at least four members of the High Command stood up in protest but Yvonne signalled for them to sit “…if the Nova Cats are talking peace then they come here. Ross McKinnon is one of the most able young commanders in the AFFS if he believes the Nova Cats then I would be inclined to believe him. Also there were Rabid Fox troops with the Fox’s Teeth, unless they are dead I do not believe that they would betray us to danger, not that we could resist at present the Severn Lervoux could destroy every space borne vessel we have in system alone without its extensive support assets.†Christian continued, the rest of the High Command were not looking in his direction favourably but Christian knew that even if Hadrian’s Command paid off they would struggle to defend against the Severn Lervoux, and if the Nova Cats could travel that far inside the Federated Suns with one WarShip why could they not do the same with the rest of their fleet, and the Clans had far more WarShips available then the Inner Sphere states.
C&C, Severn Lervoux (Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser)
Nadir Jump Point, New Avalon System
Crucis March, Federated Suns
19th December 3060
The commander of the vessel Star Admiral Anders McKenna and the commander of the mission Star Colonel Canin Rosse looked at the command centre Holo-tank examining the co-ordinates the Federated Suns High Command had given them. At the back if the bridge Ross McKinnon and Rachel Montgomery stood looking at the tank. “We could be there in two days. There does not appear to be any space defences in that area†Anders said.
“Good, it appears they trust us enough to remain in the system but not for their Regent to come up here†Canin said “we‘ll work on that in the next communiqué.â€
“They don’t fully trust you Star Colonel†Rachel said drifting forward, one of the Elemental Marines moved forward with her, the ship’s crew didn’t fully trust the Federated Suns personnel, only Ross and Rachel were allowed off the DropShip. Canin waved off the marine then Anders followed suit and the Armoured Elemental backed off.
“What do you mean Leftenant?†Canin asked.
“The defenders of New Avalon have a staging base on this moon, although it is not in direct launching position now, in three days time the moon will have orbited to this position†she said pointing to a place in the system near the point. “from there DropShips will be able to launch and attack within six hours. Although this might not be their intention, it could be one of their contingency plans.†She said, Anders cursed quietly but Canin simply nodded, he could see how that could be the Severn Lervoux was a major threat to the system.
“Is there somewhere else we could go?â€
“Not that I know of, we use this point to enter the system quietly and land on the moon without anyone knowing.â€
“I know of another point†Ross said “one no-one else knows of.†He said quietly, it was risky and foolhardy and would only be possible if the crew were extremely good and their timing was excellent.
“There is a point behind Galahad†he said naming one of the system’s outer planets. “every twelve hours there is a thirty minute window at a specific point of entry or exit. You have to make it perfect and it clouds your exit strategy to only once every twelve hours.â€
“That is suicide!†Rachel said, every system had such points created when a major gravity mass moved, if they failed the vessel would be crushed by the planet’s gravity.
“Or it is perfect, can your people plot that jump?†Canin said looking to Anders.
“If the Captain gives us the specifics, aye.†The Nova Cat Star Admiral said, trust a space jock to be ready to prove himself in a minutes notice.
“Good, then you jump in, release us and jump away immediately. We drop off the Fox’s Teeth and see how things go, if they go well you jump in at the point they suggested, if not use your own discursion in dealing with New Avalon.†Canin said Anders nodded, they would jump away and rendezvous with the Thunderchild and its two escorting Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, if everything went wrong then all four WarShips would jump back in and they would conqueror the New Avalon system both escort Cruisers carried three Clusters of ground troops each, New Avalon‘s defenders wouldn‘t have much chance against that kind of firepower. “Make preparations for jump, Star Admiral, we are returning to the DropShip.†Canin said heading to the exit both the Federated Suns officers motioned to move with the Star Colonel.
“Aye sir, Captain, could you provide us with these details please. And make them accurate I do not want the gravity to rip us to shreds.†Anders said turning to Ross who remained on the bridge and gave the Nova Cats the details as much as he could remember, this was one of the most tightly held secrets of the New Avalon system and he was giving it to the Nova Cats like they were the closest allies, which Ross knew was not true but he also knew what having a Clan as an ally could do for them.
Strategic Planning and War Room
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th December 3060
The High Command met again to as the Severn Lervoux had disappeared completely following its jump “perhaps they ran off, unwilling to start a war following the way we’ve dealt with the Smoke Jaguars.†Killian Reason suggested.
“I don’t think so, the Nova Cats are a Clan. Once they find a target and lock on they hunt it until it is dead.†Christian McCarthy said, “where ever they are they are close.†Just as he spoke alarms sounded and the screens changed to an Overlord C-class DropShip making a fast burn into the atmosphere straight towards the Davion Royal Palace.
“It appears you were correct Field Marshal, the Nova Cats seem to have evaded our contingency plans and our orbital defence patrols.†She said cursing the WarShips in Orbit and two Aerospace Wings deployed from the ground had been totally useless, if the High Command got through this in one piece they‘d have to review the entire defence system of the Capital World. “Have the control tower guide them to the ground†Yvonne said, she noticed several members of the High Command ready to protest but she continued on “have the First Davion Guards meet them, full force is authorized however if they do not attack then we give them a chance.â€
Almost thirty minutes later the Overlord-C was coming into a landing, on the ground was an entire Battalion of the First Davion Guards BattleMechs supported by an entire Battalion of over two hundred-and-fifty Battle Armoured troopers. In the surrounding hills there was the rest of the Regimental Combat Team, a total of eight Regiments, in the air there were three aerospace wings.
The main doors of the Overlord-C opened and the Mechs of the Fox’s Teeth exited the DropShip followed by the troopers of the Rabid Fox in their Infiltrator Mk. I Battle Armour and then finally two trinaries worth of Nova Cat warriors. “This is Captain Ross McKinnon, we are here to see the Regent and the High Command.â€
“Captain, this is Marshal Bishop Sortek, you are ordered to stand aside and allow us to guard our guests until something can be done.†The First Davion Guards commander said.
“Negative, Marshal†Ross said.
“Captain, I am a Marshal, you are a Captain. You follow orders now move or we take you down alongside your new friends.â€
“With respect, Marshal Sortek, that is a negative. The Nova Cats could have take us as bondsmen and tried to turn us into members of their Clan instead they allowed us to remain members of the AFFS and keep our structure and discipline. We will not abandon them now, we will also warn you that an offensive move against the Nova Cats is a move against us.†Ross said there was no way he was leaving the Nova Cats now.
“The Rabid Fox also stand with the Nova Cats and the Fox’s Teeth.†Rachel Montgomery said the Infiltrators moving alongside the Nova Cat Elementals. For several minutes there was a tense stand-off then Sortek came back on the comm.
“Captain McKinnon, you and Leftenant Montgomery are invited to escort the Nova Cat commander to the Regent. The rest of your commands will be cleared to remain here and ensure nothing happens to our guests.â€
“Agreed.†McKinnon said after a moments pause, his modified Centurion moved forward as did Rachel’s Infiltrator Mk I squad. Then a Timber Wolf stepped forward as well, five Elemental Warriors launched into the air on their backpack jump jets and landed on the Timber Wolf’s back, the Clan commander was taking security with him. Marshal Sortek moved his own one hundred ton Devastator forward, looking at the Clan-built Timber Wolf Sortek thought of the OmniMech’s Clan, the Mech really did look like a hunter, just like the name suggested, hunched over heavy laser arrays in both arms, and over shoulder missile launchers then a heavy machine gun and pulse laser array in the torso.
A small APC moved forward and collected Rachel’s Infiltrators, the and the group moved out, as they did the command lance of the First Davion Guards following the group to the meeting point.
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Davion Royal Retreat
New Avalon, Davion Mountains
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th December 3060
The small contingent of troops arrived at the Royal Retreat, Canin Rosse dismounted from his Timber Wolf and pulled on a sold black jumpsuit with the Nova Cat insignia on the left breast. As he dressed Ross McKinnon and Rachel Montgomery both joined him, both wore similar jumpsuits with gold Federated Suns on the left breast. The Elementals deployed around Canin’s OmniMech as the three walked up to the retreat. There they were met by Marshal Bishop Sortek, Field Marshal Christian Robert McCarthy and Field Marshal Jackson Davion, who had only just landed on New Avalon himself. Ross and Rachel both snapped to salutes which the three Marshals returned but remained silent leading them inside past a pair of Rabid Fox troopers in brand new Infiltrator Mk II Battle Armour.
Stepping inside the retreat was like changing worlds. Led through a small entrance way they entered a large room which was well decorated and had a roaring fire, sitting in a chair near the fire was Regent Yvonne Steiner-Davion standing near her was Barron Tarncred Sandoval, the Baron of Robinson. “Please come in†she said the three Marshals bowed slightly then moved to the far side of the wall standing behind one of the sofas while Canin, Ross and Rachel stood near the door. Both Federated Suns officers snapped to attention but Canin continued to stand at ease “at ease, before you strain something.†she said both Ross and Rachel stood easy “and who is this?â€
“Regent, allow me to introduce…†Ross said but Canin stepped forward interrupting Ross.
“Star Colonel Canin Rosse, Clan Nova Cat, Clan Watch.†Canin said bowing heavily, Ross noticed Christian McCarthy take a heavier notice of Canin as the Watch was mentioned.
“Star Colonel, welcome to New Avalon.†Yvonne said bowing slightly "words I never thought I'd utter" she whispered slightly flushed. She did not recognise the Watch designation but from the look on McCarthy’s face it probably was intelligence. Canin remained bowed for a moment then stood up straight, Yvonne approached until they were standing centimetres apart. “Now please tell me why you are here in the Federated Suns, why the Nova Cats are below the Tukayyid Truce Line and why you have been on/near the Tortuga Dominions?†She said giving Canin some quick-fire questions.
“We are here to return the Fox’s Teeth and their Rabid Fox Battle Armour Support. And we are here to inform you of a gift we have for the Federated Suns. We are below the Tukayyid Truce Line because we were not on Tukayyid and we did not lose to the Inner Sphere forces. Also we have never acted aggressively to the Inner Sphere. We have occupied the worlds around Tortuga Prime as that area has become our home, the Nova Cat’s Den, we have ninety percent of our civilians and the majority of our ground forces and our Naval forces.†Canin said not moving out of the corner of his eye he saw Baron Tarncred Sandoval look at the Marshals who each looked to each other with deep worry, the Federated Suns was weak in their Periphery Regions.
“Wait, you have taken over the Tortuga Dominions? Why?†Yvonne asked stepping away looking slightly stunned, the revelation there was another Clan on the Inner Sphere’s fringes and worse they were right beside the Federated Suns.
“We needed a home closer to the Inner Sphere, but we did not want to assault a legitimate state. A vision pointed to the Tortuga Dominions as a perfect target, and since moving there we have found plenty of interesting extras.†Canin said Yvonne looked directly at him but Tarncred spoke up first.
“Star Colonel, sorry to interrupt but a vision told you to go there?â€
“Aff, the Nova Cats are deep believers in visions, we followed a Khan’s vision and the Nova Cat’s Den has risen from the ashes of the Tortuga Dominions.â€
“And what of the people of the Tortuga Dominions.†Christian McCarthy asked looking at Ross for an answer, he did not trust the Clansmen.
“From what we could tell the Nova Cats have treated the civilians extremely well. Large portions of the population have joined the Nova Cats on New Barcella, the Nova Cat’s new capitol world.†Ross said Canin glanced in his direction and nodded slightly his agreement with what was said.
“New Barcella?†Tarncred asked, he knew of no such world.
“A world we discovered and colonised, it is named for our Homeworlds Capital. We mean the Federated Suns no threat, which is why no Nova Cat unit has attacked the Federated Suns and why we have returned your people unharmed by Nova Cat arms.â€
“You have returned them after almost two years of captivity.†Field Marshal Jackson Davion said.
“We were not harmed†Rachel said immediately in defence of the Nova Cats, the Federated Suns personnel all exchanged glances with each other and the Regent, they were surprised that two of their most trusted young officers would rise to the Nova Cats defence so quickly.
“And our Mech’s have been upgraded with Clan weapons technology, making the Fox’s Teeth far more effective.†Ross said backing Rachel’s play.
“Not to mention the fact the Nova Cats were very open with their knowledge of weapons technology and Battle Armour technology.†Rachel added as Canin looked to the two officers wondering why he had bothered to come, ‘we should have just sent these two in the Thunderchild with Nova Cat Public Relations written on the side’ Canin thought quietly to himself.
“Never the less you did hold AFFS personnel and property illegally and you have occupied worlds below the Tukayyid Truce Line against the ComStar/Clan agreement.†Yvonne said pushing the fact that the Nova Cats had been aggressive by simply occupying Tortuga Prime and holding McKinnon’s command prisoner on Tortuga Prime.
“We have not touched the Inner Sphere, but if you want us to we can." Canin threatened, if the Federated Suns did not want peace the Nova Cats would bring war "we have the capability and many of our people would happily act like Wolves or Falcons and invade the Inner Sphere with no mercy, Our WarShip fleet could do twenty Turtle Bays a week if necessary.†Canin said very coldly all the Federated Suns Marshals looked very worried at that idea and Yvonne looked visibly moved by the threat, not his intention to scare them but he could see he had exactly that affect. “However, Clan Nova Cat are more interested in securing our new home and cultivating relations with our neighbours.†Canin said there was far more threat to his voice and his words, if the Nova Cats turned back to their Crusader values the Federated Suns would be more vulnerable than they could imagine
“Regent the Nova Cats do not lie, even with the little we have seen of their strength I have been able to count eight WarShips alone.†Ross said, now he was back in the Federated Suns he had a duty to report to his superiors, he looked to Canin but the Nova Cat Star Colonel was focused on the Marshals and Baron Sandoval standing nearby.
“Intelligence suggests the Nova Cats have something like twelve to sixteen WarShips, like most other Clans they have a fleet of vessels consisting mostly of old Star League-era designs.†Christian McCarthy said looking at Canin who didn’t flinch.
“We have thirty-two WarShips of various size and strength, our fleet is the third strongest of all the Clans and while many are newer designs you are correct most are of Star League construction.†Canin said looking at the Marshal “and we are fully capable of using all of them.†He said, there was an edge to Canin’s voice that neither Ross or Rachel had heard very often it turned the normal calm, almost welcoming Clan Star Colonel into a very dangerous sounding man.
“Are you threatening us?†Baron Sandoval asked.
“Neg, we came here to return your property, personnel and give the Federated Suns a gift now do you want to try and capture me, and enrage the Nova Cats, or would you like us to give you your gift?â€
“My apologies Star Colonel, we did not think. What does Clan Nova Cat want to give the Federated Suns?†Yvonne said stepping closer to Canin trying to make the Clansmen focus on her and not the Marshals and Baron.
“It would be easier if we showed you.†Canin said “we have something held in an unpopulated system of the Federated Suns we do not have the resources to renovate the vessel, maintain our fleet and build our new home so because the vessel originated here in the Federated Suns we are willing to return it to you.â€
“Vessel?†Bishop Sortek said quietly “you are giving us a DropShip or a JumpShip?â€
“A WarShip to be exact. You could turn it against us but in its present condition we would destroy it easily, also since we have far more vessels with far more experienced crews we are confident we could destroy it even if you were able to repair it fully. We can not field it and it originated here.†Canin said turning his head to the Marshal.
“A WarShip. What type is it?â€
“A…†Ross began but Canin interrupted.
“A vessel that originated here in the Federated Suns. You will have to come see it before I will tell you what it is.â€
“What are your conditions?†Yvonne asked, she liked the idea of adding another WarShip to the fleet, and cultivating friendly relations with one of the Clans it would show her brother that the Clans were not just a threat to be destroyed, something she had said from day one despite reports to the contrary.
“No conditions Regent, you may come aboard the Severn Lervoux, or you may take one of your own vessels.â€
“How many?†Jackson Davion asked “I mean how many vessels could we take?â€
“The three vessels that came into the system with you should be sufficient Marshal. I did not know the Federated Suns still fielded Davion-class Destroyers, they are a very old class of vessel I am impressed they are still operational. You know we have records of the Whirlwind-class Destroyer used by the SLDF, Quiaff?†He asked before carrying on not waiting for an answer “that vessel is a direct upgrade of your Davion.†Canin said, everyone of the Federated Suns AFFS personnel present and the Regent looked shocked Canin had just spoken of the Federated Suns most secret piece of equipment like it was a nothing element. “The Severn Lervoux and her fighters could destroy your entire fleet in system without much sweat, but we do not want a war.†Canin boasted, he actually wondered if it would be possible but the Regent stepped forward to speak they were getting closer and closer and Canin was beginning to feel slightly hotter.
“I will be safe aboard your vessel?â€
“Entirely, you have my word and the word of all of Clan Nova Cat, we do not want a war.†Canin said promising her they looked into each others eyes for a second then Yvonne turned to the AFFS personnel.
“I’m going with the Star Colonel.†she noticed the three Marshals and the Baron ready to protest. “You know where they are based, and my brother should be on his way back to the Federated Suns by now. If I go missing then you know what to do. Jackson you will remain here on New Avalon just in case. Field Marshal McCarthy I need a protection detail, a squad†she turned back to Canin “is that alright?â€
“Aff, although the Leftenant Montgomery’s troopers should be plenty not to mention the Fox’s Teeth.†Canin said, the presence of more Federated Suns personnel wouldn’t be a problem but Canin couldn’t see why they were needed.
“They will not be coming, you have returned them to the Federated Suns. Now they need time to be debriefed and for them to see their families, we believed them dead.†Yvonne said, so that was why the extra protection was needed this was where the Nova Cats and their guests were split up. Canin nodded and turned to the two people in the room he considered friends.
“Take care of yourselves and of each other my friends, we will see each other again.†He said turning to leave.
“You sure of that Star Colonel, Quiaff?†Ross asked, in the corner of his eye Canin noticed the other Federated Suns personnel uncomfortable with Ross using the Clan talk and smiled broadly, this would not be a easy time for either of them.
“Aff, I believe we will all see each other again.†Canin said then turned looking over his other shoulder directly at Yvonne, who had once again moved closer to Canin, “Regent, my DropShip will wait six hours for you and your guards to arrive. If you do not arrive we will rejoin the Severn Lervoux. Please do not be startled when you see the vessel approach, they are only here to collect us.†He said and with that he was gone, the Star Colonel walked straight out and returned to his Timber Wolf then within minutes the Elementals were back on the Mech’s back and he was away with the three First Davion Guards Mechs in escort.
“I’m going.†Yvonne said all four Marshals and Baron Sandoval stepped forward raising their concerns but she raised her hand “I’m going, no arguments. Jackson you will remain here, and assume the position of Regent if I do not return, just in case the Nova Cats are lying…â€
“They are not†Ross said quietly under his breath, everyone noticed.
“We will soon see, Captain. Christian, I need four of your best men with me on the Severn Lervoux.â€
“Done Regent†the head of the DMI said confidently.
“What about us?†Rachel asked quietly again all eyes turned on them.
“You have been out of contact and in enemy hands for almost two years. You units will be placed under house arrest until we can assess how much you have been affected by the experience. Please ensure they do not resist, Marshal Sortek’s men and women do not want to engage your units but there is an entire RCT in these mountains ready for a fight.â€
“Understood, none of us have anything to fight for or anything to hide from. We will not resist.†Ross said looking to Rachel who immediately nodded her agreement, they had spoken about this in length already they knew that the DMI and the High Command would want to fully debrief both units, it would be a long and hard process.
“Yvonne, allow me to come with you. I can be your escort the Nova Cats will not object to one more passenger.â€
“No they probably won’t Baron Sandoval but I will not give them a potentially more important prisoner than me. If this is a trick then only I will fall for it.†Yvonne said to the Baron, the two had become close over the last year and there was the beginnings of a romantic relationship there despite the age gap. She thought it was sweet that he would risk his life for her but she would not let him endanger himself, this was her gamble. “Marshal Sortek, please have an escort for my car. Don’t want to leave the Nova Cats waiting.â€
“Yes, Regent†Bishop Sortek said leaving the room for a moment, within thirty seconds twelve medium and light Battle and OmniMechs arrived in front of the building. “Your escort has arrived.†The marshal reported and Yvonne travelled to the Nova Cat DropShip alone, once there the car was joined by four troopers in Infiltrator Mk II Battle Armour and all were escorted inside by the Nova Cats. Once all Nova Cats were aboard the vessel took off leaving New Avalon. The Fox’s Teeth and their Rabid Fox Infiltrator Mk I troopers were surrounded by the First Davion Guards and escorted away.
Several Hours Later near pirate point
New Avalon System
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th December 3060
It was approaching midnight and the Nova Cat DropShip was approaching the Severn Lervoux which had moved closer to another pirate point in the system, the two Fox-class Corvettes and the three ancient Davion Block I Destroyers had moved into escort positions around the Severn Lervoux. Even with their superior numbers they looked insignificant to the massive Nova Cat’s Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser and her fighter screen. There was a knock at the door which roused Yvonne from a restless sleep, she had been given the vessel commander’s quarters to rest in as the DropShip approached the Severn Lervoux “what is it?â€
“Regent, Star Colonel Canin Rosse to see you.†One of her Rabid Fox bodyguards said, on the DropShip the ship’s commander had told them in no uncertain terms that they would not wear their battle armour, for a start it would be impossible for them to travel through the doors of the DropShip and with the battle armour one wrong move could cause serious damage to the DropShip‘s innards. Although the Nova Cats had given them pulse laser rifles to allow them to protect themselves and the Regent. Yvonne scrambled from her bunk in the low gravity and pulled on a pink dressing gown.
“Send him in please†she said quietly and the door slid open, the Nova Cat officer stepped in, now in his full uniform a charcoal coloured suit with patterned leather shoulder pads rimmed in gold, he looked rather dashing for a Clan barbarian. “Can I help you, Star Colonel?â€
“I wanted to inform you that we were approaching the Severn Lervoux, and I wondered if you would like to join me in the observation deck.?†Canin said Yvonne noticed he looked her over fully before noticing she had seen him, his cheeks were going slightly red but he made no effort to make an apology. The Nova Cat Star Colonel was around her age maybe a little older than her twenty-one years, he was slightly taller and very athletic, definitely a MechWarrior, he had a small scar on his left jaw and another below his right eye but otherwise he was an extremely attractive young man.
“Yes, I would. Can you give me a couple of minutes to get ready?â€
“Aff, I will wait outside†Canin said leaving Yvonne changed. About five minutes later she stepped from the room in a long form fitting blue dress. On New Avalon or Tharkad she would have worn make-up or a more flamboyant dress however today she had gone for something simple, something the Clansmen would understand also anything flamboyant would get in the way on a star ship. Canin nodded appreciatively and offered his arm for support, Yvonne was shocked by the gesture but graciously accepted and they walked along together the two Rabid Fox troopers maintained a sizable distance allowing them some privacy.
“It seems like although the Clans improved on technology they did not in living conditions inside these tin cans.†She said quietly Canin smiled broadly once more, she did like his smile, the Clan warrior looked down to the deck and remained silent as they walked along together.
Entering the Forward Observation deck Yvonne looked out and saw the three Davion Block I-class Destroyers reactivated after centuries of storage in the secret Hadrian’s Command Anchorage. The boxy vessels each weighed in at just over half a million tons but from the information she had heard on the Severn Lervoux none could match the massive Nova Cat Battle-cruiser, a vessel which she still had not seen. “Where is the Severn Lervoux?†Yvonne asked searching the surrounding space.
“Below us†Canin said “the DropShip needs to spin on its axis to dock with the WarShip.†Just as he spoke there was a klaxon informing the crew that the main engines were about to be cut, suddenly any gravity they had been experiencing was gone. Yvonne lost her balance and grip and began to drift away towards the centre of the room Canin showed he was the more experienced spacer and grabbed her pulling the Federated Suns Regent back in close “you alright, Regent?†Canin asked as he held her firmly an arm wrapped around her waist they were only a couple of centimetres apart looking right at each other.
“Yes, thank you, Star Colonel†Yvonne said looking away grabbing the wall balance bar her eyes never wavered from Canin‘s face. “You know I think you should call me Yvonne, soon my brother will return from Clan space and I will just be his sister.â€
“Oh no, Yvonne†Canin said trying it out “I think you are far more than just Victor Steiner-Davion’s sister. Use my first name also, please, we Nova Cats enjoy simple words.â€
“I thought the Clans prized your second names? They carry great honour don‘t they your surnames, there are few of themâ€
“Aff, there are few only ten-to-fifteen per Clan. We do not have a surname we inherited from parents or relatives, for Trueborns like myself the Bloodname is the closest thing we will ever get to having a surname as you call it. I won the Rosse Bloodname a while ago and I am one of only twenty in the Bloodhouse.â€
“What of your parents?†She asked Yvonne had heard of the Clans genetic engineering process but was playing the stupid Inner Sphere noble she though the Clans saw her and many of the Inner Sphere people as, hiding her true intelligence would give her another advantage if she needed it.
“I do not know who my genetic parents were, I was born from an Iron Womb, I was created from the combined genetic materials of two of the Nova Cat’s greatest bloodnamed whoever they were. I grew up in a Sibko, school for trainee warriors, with about fifteen others who were born of the same blood as myself only three of us continued into the warrior‘s life and so far I am the only one who has become an officer and a Bloodnamed Warrior.â€
“Well I am sure they would be very proud if they knew what you had accomplished.†Yvonne whispered as one of the Rabid Fox troopers appeared in the doorway “I am fine.†She said waving off the man.
“I thank you, Yvonne†Canin said, he didn’t know why he had said such a thing but it seemed appropriate “and now for the grand entrance.†Canin said quietly as the DropShip rotated there was a silence between them and the Severn Lervoux appeared in the view port, because the vessels were so close the massive Battle-cruiser blotted out the surrounding space.
“Wow!†Yvonne exclaimed, she had seen the Federated-Boeing’s Floating Tower Space station in the Galax system but the Severn Lervoux was something to behold. Yvonne had seen long range photos of the vessel while on New Avalon but seeing the massive Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser was a sight to behold.
“Allow me to introduce Clan Nova Cat’s newest vessel, the flagship of the fleet the Severn Lervoux.†Canin said quietly as the vessel closed on the vessel up front they could see a heavy array of four Heavy Naval PPCs and six class-35 Naval Lasers backed up by conventional arrays of lasers and missile launchers for defence against fighters. Then along each side of there was AR-10 Multi Purpose Capital Missile Launchers backed up by turreted Naval Autocannons class-25, Naval Lasers class-55 and more Heavy Naval PPCs which were in turn backed up by more standard lasers and missiles for anti-fighter defence. Alongside these were fighter launch bays and three DropShip collars, Yvonne realised that this was just one side of the vessel, on the other side there was exactly the same firepower very impressive and slightly scary.
“It’s amazing.†Yvonne said as the DropShip docked with the Severn Lervoux with a bump Canin protectively held onto Yvonne ensuring she would not drift away from the bar.
“It is only a WarShip†Canin said quietly into her ear “amazing is something people do for each other, come on I will show you this vessel and then you will see something amazing.†Canin said moving away leading Yvonne into the WarShip. At the same time the deployed DropShips began recalling their fighters and then they began docking with the massive WarShip. After the four DropShips were docked the Severn Lervoux’s own fighters docked and the Federated Suns WarShips moved off to a safe distance.
“Prepare for immediate jump†Anders McKenna said over the intercom once the fighters were back aboard his vessel Canin and Yvonne were still in one of the lifts raising towards the command and control room. Canin drifted out onto the bridge first past the pair of Elemental guards, Yvonne followed glancing at the massive Elementals as she passed, suddenly she understood why the people of the Inner Sphere thought the Clans were aliens when they first invaded. The Elemental soldiers in their full Battle Armour were like living mountains, the V-shaped visor made them look completely un-human. Canin reached back to her and pulled her into the Command and Control Room holding onto Yvonne one arm around her waist the other holding her hand. Yvonne’s face was close to Canin’s and she could feel the warmth radiate off the Nova Cat Officer, Star Admiral McKenna looked to them and specifically to Canin who nodded “jump!†He ordered the K-F Drive compressed and there was a surge of energy then the massive vessel disappeared from the New Avalon system appearing in the dead of space with nothing anywhere near the massive Battle-cruiser.
“Where are we?†Yvonne whispered in Canin’s ear, stranded in dead space the vessel could be centuries from habitation.
“Wait for it†Canin whispered holding her tightly, Yvonne liked the way it felt as they drifted together in the zero-g environment. Canin continued to hold her as the vessel’s K-F Engine fired again, there was a surge of energy and the Severn Lervoux jumped for a second time using the vessel’s Lithium Fusion Battery Engine to supercharge the Jump Engine into a second jump most WarShips had a Lithium Battery as it allowed them to engage targets at far greater distances than normal.
This second jump brought them into a system near a small dwarf star, a pair of Nova Cat Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers and the Thunderchild were recharging their drives nearby. “Now we have arrived.†Canin said allowing Yvonne to drift off before turning to her to face him. Yvonne looked at the screens uncertain what she was seeing, it looked like three more Nova Cat WarShips all loaded to bear, all within striking range of New Avalon. “Come on I want to show you this with your own eyes.†Canin said leading her from the Command Centre to one of the Severn Lervoux’s Gravity Decks, which provided about a quarter gravity giving them some control other than the use of the wall, floor and roof bars.
“What the hell is this?†Yvonne asked she was angry Canin had been nice to her, he’d seemed interested in her not her position, and now the Nova Cats were in position to launch a massive assault on the Federated Suns. She recognised the two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, it was one of the most common vessels in circulation with the Clans each was loaded with four DropShips, the larger vessel looked like nothing she had ever seen before.
“This is our gift to your people.†Canin said Yvonne slapped him, the Clansmen looked angry but it soon disappeared.
“An invasion force? I thought the Nova Cats wanted to be our allies.â€
“We do, this is not an invasion force.†Canin said defensively but not at all aggressively. “The vessels out there are just an escort for the Severn Lervoux and our gift to the Federated Suns. Look at the large vessel, does it look at all familiar?†Canin said Yvonne turned and looked at the vessel Canin noticed she was not recognising the vessel “how about the name Varnay?†Yvonne turned on him like a flash for a second Canin wondered if she was going to hit him again.
“What connection do the Nova Cats have to that family? What is this?†She repeated her question.
“That vessel is the FSS Thunderchild, a Varnay-class Battleship and command vessel of the Varnay family during the last days of the Davion Civil War. This is the Nova Cat’s gift to the Federated Suns.â€
“My god! Where did you find her?†Yvonne asked immediately recognising the name spinning to look at the vessel.
“Rusting out in an asteroid belt, we don’t have the resources to upgrade her to current standards but the Federated Suns does. We mean your people no harm.†Canin said quietly Yvonne’s eyes were all over the ancient Battleship.
“No harm?†Yvonne said quietly “no harm? The presence of this vessel could split the Federated Suns, the Varnay family could regain some of their prestige. How can this vessel not cause harm?â€
“Yvonne, we have given the Davion family the vessel, you do not have to mention that you have a Varnay-class Battleship it could be renovated at the same place you renovated the Davions in the New Avalon system. Or you could sneak it into the shipyard at Galax the Federated Suns have far more resources than us.†Canin said taking a leap of faith, the Davions had to be renovated somewhere after centuries of Warfare it was unlikely they had three WarShips fully operational. And in the first Star League-era the Galax system was home to a massive Port Sydney construction facility, since it was deep in the Federated Suns he guessed it was still there.
“True, so what happens now?†Yvonne said taking the bate.
“There is a Nova Cat crew aboard the Thunderchild at present, however as soon as the Federated Suns is able to put a crew on the Battleship we will evacuate and leave it to you.†Canin said.
“I have no people with me, other than some Rabid Fox troopers still stuck on the DropShip. The nine of us cannot command the Battleship alone.â€
“Of course, we have an HPG transmitter and receiver on board, you can contact the AFFS High Command on New Avalon or anywhere else anytime. We have no intention on making this difficult.†Canin said Yvonne was impressed the Clansmen were by no-means mindless foot soldiers of crazy men. Canin must have noticed she was thinking something.
“What?†Canin asked quietly, it was almost a whisper.
“You are not the normal Clansmen.â€
“I am what?†Canin asked surprised, he did not know if he should feel insulted or pleased, no-one had ever said such a thing about him.
“You are not the normal Clansmen.†Yvonne repeated, “normally the people of the Inner Sphere sees the Clans as people with insane commanders and mindless footmen. You Nova Cats seem nothing like that.â€
“We are human. The Nova Cat Khans trust the Nova Cat within each of us, we trust our Khans, our Oathmaster and the Nova Cat.†Canin said Yvonne looked slightly confused but said nothing and Canin gave her no further explanations the Fox‘s Teeth would explain the rest.
Over the next two days the Nova Cats waited for the Federated Suns recovery team to arrive finally the FSS Invincible, a Fox-class Corvette, arrived with five Octopus Tug-class DropShips and several engineering teams. The Nova Cats evacuated to the three surrounding WarShips and then with one final goodbye between Canin and Yvonne the Nova Cat WarShips left heading back to the Nova Cat’s Den. Yvonne remained with the Invincible for a couple of days thinking of her time with the Nova Cat Star Colonel, he had opened her eyes to something more than the life she had been leading up until now.
Detroit
New Colony Region, Periphery
24th December 3060
Protector Jeffery Calderon, leader Taurian Concordat, and Magestrix Emma Centrella, leader Magistracy of Canopus, are taken hostage on Detroit in the Periphery Region between their realms and the Capellan Confederation, dubbed the New Colony Region. It emerges that Sherman Maltin commander of the Colonial Marshals, a defence force for the New Colony Region run by both the Taurian Concordat and Magistracy of Canopus, has declared himself President of the Independent New Colony Region and that the only way the leaders will be released is if the New Colony Region is Recognised.
Hope you enjoyed 3060
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into 3061, hope you are all enjoying this expanded version
3061
Various Worlds
St Ives Compact
27th January 3061
The Capellan Confederation takes advantage of the Inner Sphere’s pre-occupation with the threat of the Clans and with the Magistracy of Canopus and the Taurian Concordat in support they launch a full attack on the St Ives Compact. Although outnumbered two-to-one on most worlds the St Ives defenders hold their ground against the invaders. Federated Suns units including the First Capellan Dragoons, the First Kittery Borderers and the disbanding Seventh Federated Commonwealth RCT are all attacked by the invaders while defending the St Ives Compact although the AFFS Command refuse to get further involved supplying only their own forces. Capellan WarShips attempt to blockade the Milos and the Nashur systems attempting to starve out the St Ives forces however two Fox-class Corvettes arrive with assault DropShips in the Nashur system during a supply run of the Seventh FedCom RCT.
Detroit
New Colony Region, Periphery
9th February 3061
Following a stalled negotiation process Naomi Centrella, second-in-line to Magistracy of Canopus throne, leads an Elite Capellan force to the New Colony Region killing ‘President’ Sherman Maltin and almost all the rebelling Colonial Marshals. Unfortunately during the fight Protector Jaffrey Calderon of the Taurian Concordat and Magestrix Emma Centrella are both killed in the crossfire. With no information on the fate of Task Force Serpent or the Bulldog Reinforcements Naomi Centrella is named as Magestrix of the Magistracy of Canopus and Lord Grover Sharplen assumes Taurian Concordat Protectorship.
Throne Room
Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City), Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
20th February 3061
Following a month of battles with the forces defending the St Ives Compact the Capellans had only secured one world out of the six initially invaded on the 27th January. Talon Zhan was not looking forward to his report to the Chancellor. “So Talon how is our little War going?†Sun-Tzu asked Talon hated it when the Chancellor used his name instead of his rank but there was little he could do without it, the Chancellor was a living God to the Capellan people.
“Not as we planned Chancellor†Talon Zhan reported the Chancellor’s facial expression changed immediately suddenly the Chancellor began to look more dangerous “the St Ives people have rallied behind the troops loyal to your Aunt and are resisting our ruler ship anyway they can without taking up weapons.â€
“Damn them, what of the Federated Commonwealth forces?â€
“The three Federated Suns Units?†Talon corrected quietly there was no reaction from the Chancellor. “They have resisted us at every turn and the Murmansk and Indefatigable, two Fox-class Corvettes, both resisted us in the Nashur system. As per your orders the WarShip Xizang did not fire on the AFFS vessels and retreated from the system.†The word that one of his WarShips had retreated from the forces of House Davion flew Sun-Tzu into a full blown rage, the Capellan Confederation forces had retreated from Federated Suns forces once before and it had cost the Liao family half their realm. Once the Chancellor had calmed down Talon asked one last question “what shall I order our troops to do? Continue into the St Ives Compact or hold their ground?â€
“Full War. Send in more troops secure all worlds and then prepare for a full blown invasion of the St Ives worlds. No quarter given, same treatment to the Federated Suns forces kill them. If our WarShips encounter their vessels again destroy them.†The Chancellor said quietly three hours later the Capellan Confederation declared War on the St Ives Compact.
FSS Intrepid, Gravity Deck Lounge
Nadir Point, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
20th March 3061
Standing inside the biggest lounge on the Intrepid’s Gravity Deck the leaders of the Star League Defence Force celebrated their successful campaign against Clan Smoke Jaguar and their safe return to the Inner Sphere. Coordinator Hohiro Kurita dressed in full Draconis Combine uniform with a Star League Cameron Star attached “Victor, you have done this, ending the Clan threat to the Inner Sphere and my nation at least for now. It would be a great honour if you, as Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force, would spend sometime on Luthien as a show of our unity in the face of a common enemy.†He said bowing to Victor.
“I am afraid I cannot.†Victor said Hohiro and many of the other people looked stunned, it was an insult as if Victor had slapped the Draconis Combine Coordinator, “I cannot land on Luthien as Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force, as soon as we arrived back in the Inner Sphere I ceased to be Commanding-General of the SLDF although I was still Task Force Commander until we arrived in the Luthien system.â€
“Why? This is your greatest victory!†Danai Centrella said, she was dressed head to toe in a dark green form fitting dress, although it lacked Magistracy insignia it still had an Cameron Star.
“No, it is Morgan’s victory. I only challenged the Khans to a Trial, it was Morgan and the Warriors of Serpent who won the War against the Smoke Jaguars they scored the blows that killed the Clan. They gained us the respect we needed to get the trial in the first place. It is their victory.†Victor said all eyes turned to Morgan Hasek-Davion the Federated Suns Marshal of Armies looked completely stunned “Morgan, I offer you the post of Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force.†Victor said Morgan just looked blankly at the First Prince “Morgan?†Victor prompted his stunned Marshal.
“I accept.†Morgan said, his voice choked with emotion he had never expected anything like this all his thoughts had been on returning to New Syrtis. There was so many things they needed to discuss but at least for now Morgan Hasek-Davion was the official commander of the SLDF and the Marshal of Armies of the Federated Suns making him the commander of two of the most important military organisations in the Inner Sphere.
“Good, then as Slayer of the Clans you will join me on Luthien?†Hohiro said turning to the newly appointed Commanding-General, being the first nation to parade the Commanding-General to the crowds would be a massive political coup.
“Of course†Morgan said, he would be returning to the Federated Suns a little later than he had planned.
“Victor-san you are invited also†Hohiro said quietly as other began congratulating Morgan’s ascension to the position of Commanding-General. Hohiro’s offer was tempting to Victor but if he landed on Luthien the Draconis March could cause bigger problems at home than he already had and he could see Omi Kurita which would be awkward for both of them.
“No, Hohiro-san, I cannot.†Victor said “the Federated Suns has changed since I left to end the Clan threat. My nation needs me, you have a good man there as Commanding-General, just make sure nothing happens to him.â€
“You have my word†Hohiro said bowing deeply disappearing into the crowd, the Draconis Combine leader understood why Victor had refused and was probably glad he had. The Combine’s own Black Dragon Society could cause just as much problems for Hohiro as the Draconis March could for Victor who left the lounge and headed for a small briefing room the corridor. Halfway there he noticed Danai in one of the other rooms huddled over a computer console the screen blank.
Victor knocked on the door and Danai turned round and Victor could see tears running down her cheeks, stepping into the room he closed the door behind him, Danai raised from her chair and ran into his arms something had happened while they were gone. They stood there for several minutes Danai quietly crying into his shoulder before Victor was able to lower her onto a sofa.
As he cradled Danai Victor finally found out why she was upset. While they had been fighting the Clans Danai’s mother had been killed in the New Colony Region and her sister, Naomi, had taken over the Magistracy of Canopus Throne. Although she could return home and fight for the Throne that was legally hers Danai knew in her heart that her sister Naomi would make a worthy Magestix and that it would cause unneeded trouble for her to return home now.
Danai was effectively without a home and when Victor invited Danai back to New Avalon to give her time to think Danai accepted without much thought. The FSS Intrepid began leading the remnants of the First Kathil Uhlans and the Tenth Lyran Guard RCT back to the Federated Suns, half of the Uhlans survivors (roughly two companies) chose to remain as Morgan‘s bodyguard and as did Leftenant-Colonel Archer Christifori, of the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT. Archer a hero of the Refusal War and had received a Star League Medal of Honour for his efforts on behalf of the Star League during the battle on Strana Mechty. Archer had accepted Morgan‘s request that the he accept a promotion to Colonel and command of the First Royal BattleMech Regiment, the first SLDF Regiment to be formed in centuries and a unit that would be formed from mainly Task Force Serpent survivors.
A few days later Isis Marik arrives in the Luthien system and stays at the Imperial Palace with Omi Kurita, an old friend following the end of her relationship with Sun-Tzu Liao. Walking the rooms of the Imperial of Palace of the Kurita family Isis tried to console her thoughts and work out what she wanted to do, she was not welcome in her own realm by her father and now her fiancé had thrown her out as well. Omiko Kurita was a very welcoming and understanding person but allowed Isis her own time and space a fact possibly compounded by her recent break-up, with Victor, although Isis did not know the specifics she did know it was because of politics and not because they no longer loved each other. Although some news services and Scandal-Vids were going crazy since Victor had been seen a lot with Danai Centrella recently and Danai had been invited back to New Avalon instead of returning to Canopus to claim her throne.
Gravity Deck
Observation Lounge, Recharge Station
Atreus, Free Worlds League
25th March 3061
Leader of the Free Worlds League and current First Lord of the Star League, Captain-General Thomas Marik, stood in the Recharge Station’s biggest gravity deck looking out at the two ComStar Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers and the tiny vessel they were escorting. Precentor Martial Anastasius Focht moved alongside the Captain-General “welcome to the Atreus system Precentor Martial, I was surprised when I heard you wanted to enter the Free Worlds League but not when you brought WarShips, so what can I do for you?â€
“I came on behalf of the Star League Captain-Generalâ€
“I am the First Lord of the Star League and I did not give any order, nor would I to ComStar.†The Captain-General was not the real Thomas Marik, the real Thomas Marik had been killed in an explosion years before, the current Captain-General and First Lord was in fact a ComStar spy.
Thomas Marik, or at least the man who stood in front of Anastasius now, had turned from ComStar to help the Free Worlds League. When the Word of Blake had broken from ComStar he had helped them, giving their faction a home in the Free Worlds League. Now even after the Word of Blake had captured the entire Terran system the Free Worlds League still aided them.
“This mission is a ComStar Mission but on behalf of the Star League, Captain-General. That vessel out there is an Artemis-class Diplomatic Vessel, new class designed by New Earth Trading Company. In conjunction with ComStar we have built two such vessels and plan to build two more a year until all the Succession States and ComStar have two each. They are among the fastest WarShips ever build capable of over 5Gs, perhaps more, they would give even the fastest DropShips a run for their money. The vessels carry a primary conventional armament and are designed to escort a diplomat in hazardous territory, such as a war zone or a mission to Clan Space or the Periphery. Their Lamellor Ferro Carbide Armour is almost as thick as some Star League-era WarShips. First Lord, we present you with the SLS Unity City to do with as you see fit, until your term of office is over then the vessel will be turned over to the next First Lord.†Anastasius Focht said turning to leave.
“And what of the second vessel?â€
“ComStar will keep the Terra for its own purposes.†Anastasius said walking off.
“Always covering your bases†Thomas said as Focht left the gravity deck, at that same time Precentor Cameron St Jamis of the Word of Blake entered via another hidden door watching the Precentor Martial disappear from sight.
“Are we ready?†With one word the three Free Worlds League WarShips and the single hidden Word of Blake vessel could pounce on the ComGuard vessels and behead ComStar’s military.
“Negative, the Master’s plans are far from ready.†Cameron said quietly watching as the ComGuard’s Precentor Martial returned to his WarShip.
“Well does the Word of Blake have something for the new Star League to counter the ComGuard gift?â€
“The Star League will see the Word of Blake’s generosity in time, all we have to be is patient. Soon we will start but first there are some obstacles I need to take care of.â€
“Obstacles?â€
“Nothing concerning you or your people. Just continue to give the Word of Blake what it needs and your position will not be compromised Captain-General.†Cameron giving the leader of the Free Worlds League a mock bow as the two ComStar Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers left the system. Thomas Marik looked at the Vessel the ComGuard force had left, the SLS Unity City, ComStar had made a beautiful sleek vessel which would make quite an entrance when the delegates arrived on Marik. Not only would Thomas Marik be escorted by the Royal Black Watch now he had a Star League vessel as well. Now all he had to do was prepare for the arrival of the leaders of the Inner Sphere into his Home system, the Unity City would take him from the Free Worlds League Capital to his Family’s home.
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Clan Occupation Zones, Inner Sphere
Clan Steel Viper/Clan Jade Falcon
3rd April 3061
Clan Steel Viper launches an all out assault on Clan Jade Falcons Inner Sphere Occupation Zone in an effort to evict the Falcons from the worlds held. Although the Falcons are taken by surprise by the Steel Viper Assaults the Falcon defenders are stronger in resistance and the fight lasts far longer than the Steel Vipers expected.
Clan Occupation Zone, Inner Sphere
Clan Stone Rhino Occupation Zone
9th April 3061
Clan Star Adder returns to the Inner Sphere landing on the three worlds the Stone Rhinos have held in stewardship for them since August 3059. The Stone Rhinos withdraw in short order from the Inner Sphere with eight Mule-class DropShips full of supplies taken from the three worlds and from Inner Sphere forces that had raided the territory they claimed. Because the Star Adders withdrew from the Inner Sphere and because Cassius N’Buta is dead the Star League Defence Force and Clan Wolf (in-Exile) complaints of the Star Adder return fall on def ears.
House Steiner Throne Room
Tharkad, Royal Palace
Coventry Province, Lyran Alliance
29th April 3061
Following their retreat from New Avalon the LAS Athens and its cargo, Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion leader of the Lyran Alliance, had returned to Tharkad, capital of the Lyran Alliance. Because the trip to New Avalon had been kept secret the Athens had remained in total communication black out conditions. Katrina expected to arrive back in the Lyran Alliance and find that New Avalon was now under control of an occupying force, likely one of the Clans considering the size of the vessel encountered. Instead she had found out that the vessel had not attacked, and that the New Avalonian government was claiming no vessel even existed and that her brother, Victor, had returned and reclaimed his throne.
Not only that Victor had arrived on New Avalon with Danai Centrella and she had been accepted by the Federated Suns people without problem. Katrina could get to Omiko Kurita even on Luthien but Danai Centrella would be another problem, then again she was a MechWarrior and MechWarriors died.
“So my brother returns as ‘Slayer of the Clans’, or whatever the hell it is they are calling him, and turns it over to Morgan Hasek-Davion. Everyone thinks he is being gracious but they seem to forget that Morgan Hasek-Davion is one of Victor’s closest lackeys! I thought the plan was for our agent to eliminate him near or at Huntress. Why is Morgan Hasek now the reborn Commanding-General of a Star League that is gaining power and personnel by the day? Neither of us can operate as we wish if this is the case.†Katrina asked looking at her guest who looked more preoccupied with Katrina’s newest additions to the Throne Room.
Traditionally a pair of Griffin BattleMechs stood guard over the throne, her brother had changed that to a Crusader and a Marauder to reflect the Federated Commonwealth Alliance when Katrina had declared the Lyran State independent she had changed the guard again to something far more symbolic. Standing in the expansive room flanking her throne and House Steiner’s mailed-fist flag, stood two factory new ninety ton Hauptmann OmniMechs painted in Steiner-blue with gold stripes down each sides and on the weapon barrels they looked very impressive however these OmniMechs were not there for show both Hauptmanns were fully operational and piloted by the best close-quarters fighters in the First Royal Guards RCT, Tharkad’s primary defenders, and in a moments notice they were ready to act in defence of the throne.
“Agent Pentrose attempted to kill Morgan Hasek-Davion twice but unfortunately he failed both times and was unwilling to end his own life completing the task, he was killed when Adriana Winson of the Eridani Light Horse shot him onboard the Invisible Truth.†The white cloaked figure answered quietly.
“Sounds like an excuse Precentor†Katrina said.
“I have spoken to the Precentor ROM and Precentor St Jamis, they have both expressed their regrets about the continued survival of the Duke and your failure to gain control of the Federated Suns.†The cloaked figure said reminding Katrina of her failure in her own throne room was dangerous but bold and an easy way to even the scores.
“So what is our contingency plan?â€
“We will have to move more slowly, for now you are on your own, Archon.†He said turning walking away towards the exit.
“Guards seize him!†The Archon shouted, the two Hauptmanns turned towards him, weapons ready, while two Standard Battle Armoured Guards seized the Precentor’s arms. “You are wrong Precentor Kesselring, it is you who is all alone. The Molehunters at the LIC (Lyran Intelligence Command) will be very interested in knowing I have uncovered a Blakist spy on Tharkad. And then once they are done pulping your mind for information we will turn what’s left of you over to ComStar’s ROM and they can have fun with you.â€
“You cannot do this, we had a deal.†Kesselring said unimpressed by the guards and totally unfazed, he thought he still had standing in this.
“I have cancelled it.†Katrina said and the guards dragged off the angry screaming Word of Blake spy. Katrina was steadily running out of allies and her deal was quickly running its course, she would make sure there was little left of Kesselring to turn over to ComStar, nothing would point to a deal between Katrina and the Blakists but the tapes would show a direct link between Kesselring and the Word of Blake ROM agents ComStar knew about in the Lyran Alliance and ComStar would help the Lyrans destroy the Word of Blake inside her realm. Perhaps there had been something the Lyran people got out of the alliance Katrina thought quietly, privately. She then turned to another report that informed her of higher than normal recruitment due to the disbanding of the Federated Commonwealth Guards in the Federated Suns by her idiot brother. Looking at the numbers Katrina could see the troops would be easily enough in quantity to warrant the formation of another Regimental Combat Team (RCT), the Sixth Alliance Guards, she though pencilling that in. Since the rest of the Alliance Guards had been formed when the Lyran Alliance ceded from the Federated Commonwealth Alliance it seemed appropriate that the troops disbanded from the last remnants of the Federated Commonwealth benefited the Lyran people. Katrina also read a report that the Federated Suns was creating several new RCTs by upgrading their last few standard BattleMech regiments to RCTs. She made notes suggesting that the Lyran High Command followed a similar pattern increasing the strength of the Lyran Alliance Armed Forces and improving communication and battlefield cohesion between units, although the Lyran Military Command did not like the Federated Suns RCTs they were more effective in battle.
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Clan Occupation Zones, Inner Sphere
Clan Steel Viper/Clan Jade Falcon
1st June 3061
Following two months of constant assaults Clan Jade Falcon led by Khan Marthe Pryde herself counterattacks the Steel Vipers inside the Occupation Zone, the fighting is widespread and brutal severely damaging both Clans in the process.
Sandhurst, England
Terra, Chaos March
6th June 3061
On Terra Word of Blake Precentor Martial Trent Adrian and his Deputy Suzanne Mulvanery are killed when a terrorist bomb destroys their vehicle just outside Sandhurst, the Word of Blake Militia‘s command base on Terra. Straight away Precentor Cameron St Jamis, a member of the Sixth of June sub-faction of the Word of Blake, is sworn in as the Word of Blake’s new Precentor Martial. Following a Sixth of June Members rising to the position of Precentor ROM just weeks before the Sixth of June is quickly proving to be a powerful faction of the Word of Blake, as well as being the most radical. The Word of Blake seal the Terran System including restricting use of the Nadir and Zenith point recharge stations to only their trusted allies.
Throne Room, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
12th June 3061
After being away for over two years First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion arrives back on New Avalon, with him is Danai Centrella. Following a triumphant return parade led by the First Kathil Uhlans and the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT Victor returns to the Davion Royal Palace on Mount Davion which dominated Avalon City, the capital of New Avalon and of the Federated Suns.
Walking up the stairs and through the main doorway Victor entered the Throne Room his sister Yvonne raised from the throne and ran across the room rapping her arms around him while his youngest brother Arthur stood just off dressed in his AFFS cadet uniform. “Welcome home!†Yvonne said not wanting to let Victor go.
“Thank you, it is good to finally end the travelling and be here, home at last. Good to see you Arthur how goes training?â€
“Well, brother, the Sandoval family have been very supportive. Congratulations on your campaign to eradicate the Smoke Jaguars.†Arthur said looking over his bother’s shoulder “who is this?†He asked with a smirk noticing Danai standing just outside the room.
“Thank you, Arthur†he said breaking from his sisters hug shaking Arthur’s hand, although seven years Victor’s junior the young man had a powerful handshake and was already taller than the First Prince, which Victor if hones knew was not difficult. Victor turned to Danai.
“Allow me to introduce Danai Centrella, Commander of the First Canopian Cuirassiers, Duchess of Canopus my very dear friend.†Victor said stretching out his arm drawing Danai into the room, Yvonne embraced and hugged Danai like a life long friend but Arthur gave a very formal bow.
“Welcome to New Avalon†Yvonne said.
“Thank you, thank you. It is a very beautiful world and this is amazing, more than I ever imagined†she said raising her arms looking around the Davion Throne room.
“You haven’t seen the best, come on, I will show you around.†Yvonne said leading Danai off, Danai glanced in Victor’s direction and he gave her a cheerful wave as Yvonne dragged her off.
“So brother out of the Drac-Snake Queen and into the Canopian Carnival Princess, you do get around…†Arthur said chuckling quietly at his own joke Victor grabbed his brothers wrist and spun the younger man into a wall his hand under Arthur’s chin despite his size Victor was showing Arthur exactly who was in charge. Victor’s captured Elemental Bondsmen/Bodyguard Tigret looked in from their door positions and noticed there was no problem.
“Listen to me, I don’t care what you think about my relationships or my companions. I thank you for my welcome home, now don’t you have training to get to?†Victor said Arthur remained totally silent nodding. Victor released Arthur from the grip “then get to it, Cadet.†He said dismissing his own brother, Arthur nodded saluted crisply and left.
Victor headed up to the throne chairs he still saw the paired thrones as his parent’s thrones not his own. “Welcome Home, sire†a deep voice said Victor turned and saw Field Marshal Jackson Davion.
“Jackson!†Victor said moving over to the elder Davion hugging the man, the Field Marshal was slightly surprised by his First Prince’s reaction. “what are you doing back here? Hadrian’s?†He asked firing rapid fire questions at Jackson as they moved closer to the thrones stopping at the foot of the steps leading up to them.
“Hadrian’s Charges were ready and used in defence of New Avalon.†Jackson said he saw Victor’s face drop, how wrong had he been about the possible Nova Cat threat? Where were the signs of battle?
“What happened?â€
“A Clan Nova Cat Battle-cruiser, a big massive buggering thing, biggest thing we’d seen for a very long time, entered the New Avalon system and offered us a gift. They then executed a inter-system jump, an impressive manoeuvre to a location that most our experts say was impossible to get to, then a pair of Nova Cat Overlord-C landed near the mountain retreat above the Fox’s Den.â€
“The Nova Cats were on New Avalon! How did this happen?†The thought of Clansmen loyal to the Clans being on New Avalon sent shivers down Victor’s spine, now he began to understand how Hohiro Kurita must have felt when Smoke Jaguars and Star Adders were on Luthien. “Our WarShips have been built specifically to counter that.â€
“The Nova Cat vessel and its fighters could destroy our in system fleet alone and according to NAIS even if Katherine had stuck around to help we would still have lost. You would have likely returned to a world governed by a Clan. According to Yvonne and the sensors on the Invincible the Nova Cat‘s back-up force was too strong for the entire AFFS Navy to take.â€
“Katherine?†Victor asked sitting down on his throne he hadn‘t listened to the rest only that his sister had been here! Victor was surprised the Federated Suns was still here and this throne still waited for him.
“There was some trouble, partially caused by Katherine, partially caused by Sun-Tzu Liao. Yvonne was alone she called on Katherine for help, can't really blame the girl" he added defending Yvonne's choice "and the Lyran Archon arrived with one of the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruisers they found near Alarion. Just as her WarShip was entering the system so did the Nova Cat vessel. The Lyrans got spooked and ran for it and we haven’t heard from Katherine since.†The elder Davion explained chuckling as he thought about Katherine’s reaction.
“So the Nova Cats landed on New Avalon, what happened then?†Victor asked, he felt sick thinking the Lyran people had forgotten past loyalties so quickly. Although he attributed most of that to Katherine’s influences.
“The Nova Cats returned the Fox’s Teeth and the Rabid Fox Platoon we sent to Tortuga all unharmed and with upgraded BattleMechs. Then they invited Yvonne on a little joyride, there they presented her with another gift.â€
“Wait, Jackson please slow down they returned the Fox’s Teeth?†Over the next hour Jackson informed Victor of all the things that had happened during his journey to Clan Space and back again. The information on the Nova Cat’s Severn Lervoux scared him but the fact the Clanners had returned the Fox’s Teeth and Rabid Fox troopers with Clan Weapon equipped BattleMechs had surprised him. But the big story, other than the entire Nova Cat Clan was in the former Tortuga Dominions and that the Nova Cats had given the Federated Suns via his sister Yvonne the FSS Thunderchild, a Varnay-class Battleship. A vessel they had not seen for centuries and a vessel that had been the command ship of the rebel Varnay family during the Civil War. Jackson informed him the vessel had been sneaked into the Galax system Shipyards and it was currently in deep mothball at a heavily guarded shipyard until they worked out what they were going to do with it. “Where is the Fox’s Teeth? I want to speak to Captain Ross McKinnon as soon as possible†Victor said.
“Field Marshal McCarthy took them and the Rabid Fox troopers that was with them to some secret facility here on New Avalon. Even I have not had access to them. Their equipment has been taken to NAIS and taken to pieces by the techs there.†Jackson said, Victor could feel his blood begin to boil although he respected the commander of the DMI he found the man a little to paranoid and willing to take to many decisions himself. McCarthy’s decision to hold the personnel annoyed Victor straight away he worried about the Fox’s Teeth, they were heroes to the Federated Suns and should be treated as such, not only that he had sent them on the mission that had robbed them of almost two years of their lives.
“Get McCarthy and his guests here now.â€
“At once, sire.†Jackson said walking off leaving victor alone in the Throne Room, ‘so much for an easy life’ he thought silently.
Now Victor had a Clan at his back-door he started to know how the Lyran Alliance and Draconis Combine felt.
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Guest Quarters, Davion Royal Palace
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
12th June 3061
Leading the way Yvonne took Danai on a tour through the Davion Palace, every step Danai was filled with a sense of awe, although she had grown up in the Magistracy of Canopus Royal Palace, which was truly a beautiful and magnificent building, it was nothing like this. “So what do you think of New Avalon?†Yvonne said walking into the Guest Quarters of the Davion families personal quarters.
“It’s beautiful, from what I saw in our decent New Avalon reminds me of Canopus during the summer. You can see as far as the horizon on a clear day…†her voice trailed off it was sad to think she would never see Canopus again but Danai had made her choice she would not lead the Magistracy into Civil War by challenging Naomi and she would not leave Victor‘s side either, here in a foreign realm she would build a new life.
“How long has it been since you were home?†Yvonne said sitting on a small sofa.
“Home†Danai said quietly sitting beside Yvonne “for me home has been the battlefield, or quarters on a DropShip for the last few years. I haven’t been to Canopus in almost six years my mother sent me to the Capellan Confederation to command our forces stationed there, with our allies. Then when the SLDF formed I took a battalion of our people to join your brother’s force, I suppose you could call the Intrepid as my recent home.†She said naming Victor’s Flagship during the entire campaign.
“When was the last time you had a night out, the last time you let your hair down and relaxed?†Yvonne asked Danai looked slightly surprised.
“I went to the dinner before Operation Bulldog and the celebration of the End of the Clan War.†Danai said after a moment, Yvonne moved closer.
“When was the last time you went out just being yourself, not caring about tomorrow’s battle or the politics of the Inner Sphere?†Yvonne asked taking Danai’s hand in her own.
“Honestly, never, I have always been groomed as the next leader of the Magistracy. Everything has been a test, a hoop I had to jump through.†Danai said slightly resigned.
“Then we need to go out and enjoy ourselves while we are young and unattached.†Yvonne said standing Danai raised to her feet as well.
“What will I wear? All I have is my travel clothes.â€
“This is New Avalon, honey, anything you want you can get. Until your settled you can borrow anything of mine, I‘m sure we‘ll find something that will fit and suit you. I’ll let you get cleaned up and come by in an hour with some things you might like.†Yvonne said moving towards the door, Danai snagged her arm.
“Yvonne, thank you†Danai said giving her a weak smile.
“Trust me, tomorrow morning you will thank me, and then you will regret going out and hide in bed all day.†Yvonne said giggling then throwing Danai a wide smile Yvonne left leaving Danai alone. Danai walked over to the bed and crashed out thinking about all the things that had happened, in all her dreams she had never expected to be here in the Davion Royal Palace ‘what a crazy life’ she thought.
Meeting Room
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th June 3061
It took Field Marshal Christian Robert McCarthy two days to arrive at the Royal Palace, by that time Danai Centrella had made her self at home on New Avalon and along with Yvonne was setting New Avalon’s press alight with rumour and stories as they frequented almost every high-class bar in Avalon City in the space of forty-eight hours. Victor tried to ignore the press stories instead he sat in a briefing room adjacent to the throne room looking at pictures of the Severn Lervoux surrounded by the Federated Suns WarShips, the Nova Cat vessel dwarfed the Federated Suns ship and the massive fighter screen the vessel was surrounded by was more than all five Federated Suns WarShips could field without DropShip support. It was scary to think that anyone could be near the Federated Suns with that kind of firepower and not be under his command.
Beside him Field Marshal Jackson Davion also was looking over the pictures, a day before Morgan Hasek-Davion had left Luthien and was on his way to New Avalon, although Morgan was still officially the Federated Suns Marshal of Armies Victor had asked Jackson if he wanted the job, Morgan would soon be far too busy to do both jobs. Victor had also sent a message to Tukayyid recalling Marshal Arden Sortek, the Federated Suns member of the Star League Advisory Council, Victor had a more important job for his father’s old friend.
“An impressive vessel†Victor said quietly.
“Even with the Davions we would have been hard pressed to resist it without the fighters but with the fighters and the DropShips our 'experts' suggest the Severn Lervoux alone could have gained control of the entire system within a couple of hours.†Jackson said, he wasn't entirely convinced about that idea, it was more than a little scary that the single Clan WarShip could eliminate nearly every WarShip in the Federated Suns navy alone. The design was a complete unknown Victor just hoped the vessel was so new that no other Clan had access to it, the Nova Cats only had one and it appeared they had no inclination to use it against the Federated Suns. The doors opened and someone entered Victor did not turn round the newcomer stopped several metres away.
“Field Marshal, where are the members of the Fox’s Teeth and their Rabid Fox support?†Victor asked not taking his eyes off the pictures.
“Holding, bottom floor†McCarthy said assuming he was talking to him and not Jackson. The bottom floor of New Avalon Palace was a high security prison and interrogation chamber, as far as Victor knew it had not been used in centuries.
“Let’s go†Victor said breaking from the pictures walking out the door, both Marshals were quickly behind him. Down on the lowest floor Victor walked straight past the DMI guards and into Ross McKinnon’s Room. Although clean it was very minimal on decorations with a bed, a chair and a table no windows and only a single light. Ross was wearing one of the black jumpsuits the Nova Cats had given him and in his hand was a small pin with the Nova Cat insignia on it. At the sight of Victor, Ross snapped to attention. “At ease, Captain†Victor said Ross barely moved “Captain McKinnon, did you or any of your people betray the Federated Suns during your time with Clan Nova Cat in the Tortuga Dominions.â€
“Once†Ross admitted truthfully Victor felt slightly worried of what Ross was about to say but remained quiet allowing him to explain their actions that led to the betrayal. “We showed the Nova Cats where the intelligence satellites were inside the Nova Cat’s Den… pardon me the Tortuga Dominions. We caused them to self destruct instead of downloading any information. I did this to facilitate my unit’s extraction from the Nova Cat’s Den, sire, nothing more.†Victor looked at the Captain carefully for a moment, the loss of the satellites was a blow but in Ross' position Victor may have done something similarly. He then looked over his shoulder at the Field Marshals.
“Field Marshal McCarthy, Captain McKinnon his men and all their support staff are to be released to their families immediately. As are the Rabid Fox troopers and the transport crews from both DropShip and JumpShip.†He said, the Field Marshal’s face wore a look of total shock, Ross saluted Victor then moved from the room releasing the rest of his people “Jackson, I want to go to Galax there is something there that needs to be seen.†Victor said picking up the Nova Cat pin Ross had left on the table.
“Yes sire.†Jackson said looking to McCarthy who was still in total shock.
“Looks like the Nova Cats are here to stay, now let’s see what they have given us.†He said pocketing the pin leaving the room and the floor.
-
Clan Occupation Zone, Inner Sphere
Clan Jade Falcon/Clan Steel Viper
4th July 3061
In a successful military campaign Khan Marthe Pryde leads Clan Jade Falcon to victory on the world of Waldorff, following this defeat Clan Steel Viper accept Clan Jade Falcon’s offer of Hegira and begin the orderly withdrawal from the Inner Sphere.
Montgomery Residence
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
29th July 3061
It felt good to be back on New Avalon, the Nova Cat accommodations had been decent for prisoner quarters but nothing beat the comfort of her own bed. Rachel Montgomery had been given extended leave from the AFFS and had relaxed in the family home for weeks. She wondered quietly what had happened to the Fox’s Teeth and Ross McKinnon, all nine survivors of the Company had disappeared quickly. She had tried to get in contact with Ross several times but there had been no response to her messages.
Outside a storm howled with rain being blown into the side of the house but every now and again she heard a small tap on the window. Thinking it was a branch or something Rachel rose from her bed, all she wore was a pair of white panties to bed, had done ever since she joined the military and needed to be ready to get dressed quickly. Walking over to the window in the darkness she looked out and saw no branches or anything turning round she began to move back to her bed where there was another tap. Rachel spun round and for some reason decided to open the window and looked out, as she did the wind blew into the room, the curtains on either side of the window flew up and Rachel was suddenly freezing.
Looking out the window she saw Ross McKinnon standing there smiling, Rachel looked back and smiled back then realised she was virtually naked, Ross was getting an eyeful of her body but she didn‘t care. “What are you doing here?†She shouted.
“I came to see you! You are not an easy lady to find!†He shouted back “can we talk?â€
“Sure, I’m on my way down!†She said disappearing into the room
“hold on, I’ll come up!†Ross shouted back sprinting over to the wall and beginning to climb.
“What are you doing?†she asked as he got closer, within a couple of minutes he was hanging outside her window. With a little help Ross fell in the window on top of Rachel, he was absolutely soaked and freezing. “What are you doing?â€
“Something crazy, but something I should have done as soon as we got back†he said leaning forward to kiss her, Rachel met him half way, and they locked in an embrace breaking off Ross whispered “will you marry me?†just as the rooms door swung open.
Standing in the doorway stood a huge balding man “Who the Hell are you? And What are you doing on top of my daughter?†He shouted.
“Daddy, this is Captain…â€
“Major†Ross said, Rachel smiled and leaned forward and kissed him forcefully.
“Congratulations!†She said as they broke off “daddy, this is Major Ross McKinnon, my fiancé.†She said kissing Ross again.
“Fiancé?†Rachel’s father said quietly stepping up straight “Fiancé?†he said rolling the word around in his mouth “When did you get engaged?†He wondered out aloud, then noticed they were all over each other and paying no attention to him “never mind, we’ll talk in the morning. Shut that window, and get him out of those freezing cold he’ll catch a death of cold. We’ll talk in the morning.†He said closing the door behind him, they didn’t need much more encouragement and enjoyed the best night of their relationship ever.
Press Studio
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th August 3061
Across Avalon City, the capital of New Avalon and by extension the entire Federated Suns, people were arriving home and preparing to watch the latest edition of Avalonian News a current affairs/news program broadcast across the planet. Tri-Vid players across the capital projected the show directly into peoples homes.
“Good Evening, I am Gillian Ford, welcome to Avalonian News.†The presenter said, Gillian Ford was possibly them most popular person on New Avalon at this time of the night, nearly sixty percent of Avalon City, and roughly fifty percent of New Avalon as a whole, watched the show. “Tonight, we have exciting international news on the new Star League Defence Force and the Capellan Confederation/St Ives Conflict, we also have several stories leaked out of the Davion Palace and sports news on Jenson Sortek’s meteoric raise to glory on Solaris VII in the Mech Arena.†She said opening the show glancing to her co-presenter, and long term replacement the beautiful Rebecca Lawson.
“Good Evening, I’m Rebecca Lawson, first tonight we have a treat for you†the image changed to an Overlord-class DropShip bearing the Star League’s Cameron Star “yesterday morning Marshal of Armies Duke Morgan Hasek-Davion arrived on New Avalon in his official capacity as Commanding-General of the newly reformed Star League Defence Force. Following a mammoth meeting with the AFFS High Command and First Prince Victor Davion, deep inside the Fox’s Den, Duke Hasek-Davion announced that effective immediately he would be stepping aside as Marshal of Armies of the Federated Suns to concentrate on forming the Star League Defence Force. The First Prince wasted little time in naming Field Marshal Jackson Davion, commander of the Davion Royal Brigade of Guards as the next Marshal of Armies. Victor also made a startling announcement, the Third Davion Guards RCT will merge with the ComGuard’s 208th Division to form the Second Royal Regiment of the new Star League the First Prince said that it was by popular vote that the two units would merge and join the new League as the Second Regiment, the First already being formed by the survivors of Task Force Serpent.â€
“In related news on the Royal Family the Prince’s sister Yvonne Steiner-Davion and, the Prince’s friend, Danai Centrella former heir to the throne Magistracy of Canopus made a stir last night. At twenty-three hundred hours Avalon City local time the two, along with their bodyguard detachment from the First Davion Guards RCT, entered Stringfellow’s of New Avalon. The popular bar/club was as always packed however Yvonne and Danai stole the show from all-comers, including the club’s dancers. Neither Yvonne or Danai were escorted by male companions which has fuelled rumours that Danai Centrella and the First Prince are involved, although some have suggested it may be Yvonne and Danai who are involved…â€
“That’s only every teenage boy’s favourite dream, Gillian†Rebecca said smiling the very idea of the planet’s two most famous and eligible women together could bring a smile to anyone’s face, “following Duke Morgan Hasek-Davions announcement of his stepping aside as Marshal of Armies he brought the Federated Suns some good news. The world of Kittery, nestled between the arms of the St Ives Compact will become the new Star League’s primary base of operations and state-of-the-art training and barracks will be built on the world. Under lease agreements with the Federated Suns, AFFS troops will also be given full access to the facility. The First Kittery Borderers, the planets primary defender currently on assignment to the defence of the St Ives Compact, will remain as the planets AFFS defending force and act as the official Opposing Force for the Star League troops.â€
“The Commanding-General also informed us that a partially completed Kirishima-class Cruiser gifted to the Star League by Coordinator Hohiro Kurita, as thanks to the SLDF for their efforts against Clan Smoke Jaguar, will be refitted at the New Syrtis Shipyards, deep inside the New Syrtis system, creating jobs and a steady income for the Capellan March.â€
“Also in military news tonight we have more reports on strange goings on in the Avalon Mountains. Following reports of foreign WarShips in the New Avalon system, an amateur photographer pictured this vessel landing a couple of months ago†a grainy two-dimensional image of an Overlord-C class DropShip “our military experts confirm that this is an Clan-designed Overlord-class vessel capable of transporting up to forty-five BattleMechs, official representatives from the Fox’s Den have said that this DropShip was the first vessel of the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT to land on New Avalon, and that this particular vessel was captured from Clan Smoke Jaguar. However no identification markings can be seen to confirm this.†Gillian said as the picture disappeared and returned to the studio.
“The Capellan Confederation was handed a severe defeat on the world of Sarna today as rogue elements of the Third Federated Commonwealth Guards RCT landed on the worlds of the Sarna Supremacy and announced their intentions to resist any attempt by the Capellan Confederation to retake the two planets in the Sarna Supremacy. The former Third’s members drove the Capellans back to their DropShips in six hours of brutal close quarters fighting. The Third has always been close to Sarna and following their previous failure to keep the world under the Federated Commonwealth flag there has been little surprise they broke orders and jumped the borders from most military experts. No official word on reaction to the Third’s actions has come out of New Avalon although the Capellan Chancellor has vowed to kill every member of the former Third FedCom RCT.†The show continued into the night and eventually touched on every topic effecting New Avalon, the Federated Suns and the Inner Sphere as a whole up to and including the take-off of the First Prince’s Excalibur-class DropShip, onboard was First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, SLDF Commanding-General Duke Morgan Hasek-Davion and it was rumoured Danai Centrella as well as an entire Battalion of the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT. The DropShip taking off the next morning heading to join a WarShip in the system which would take Victor and the SLDF Commanding-General to the Whitting Conference on Marik in November. At the conference on the Marik Family Homeworld a new First Lord would be voted into office.
-
Near Jump Point
New Syrtis System
Capellan March, Federated Suns
21st October 3061
The New Syrtis system was the capital of the Federated Suns Capellan March and home to the Hasek family. Also inside the New Syrtis system were two shipyards, the first was a JumpShip and DropShip construction facility near the system’s jump points the second was a WarShip and aerospace fighter construction yard deep inside the system. As such it was one of the most important systems in the entire Federated Suns and warranted guarding by two of the AFFS Admiralty’s Fox-class Corvettes, the FSS Indomitable and the newly launched FSS Robinson.
Strapped into the captain’s command chair Officer of the Watch Leftenant Gerardo Mathews sat looking through reports on the status of the Robinson, soon this vessel would be travelling to the Robinson system and become the command ship of the entire Draconis March, and personal transport for the Duke of Robinson, it would not be proper for the vessel named for a March Capital not to be ready.
“Leftenant, sensors detect a vessel entering at the Nadir point. Profile suggests a WarShip of some type.†The night watch sensor operator said Mathews looked up then down at his reports checking if anything was due in and noticed one possibility.
“It is likely the SLDF Kirishima.†He said unbuckling his belts he felt the zero gravity raise him up off the chair. “But bring us to combat readiness just in-case†he said quietly the war in the Capellan Confederation had put everyone on edge. “Inform the Indomitable of the disturbance.†He thought quietly this could be trouble, even if it was a single hostile WarShip the two Fox-class Corvettes could find themselves in trouble, neither had DropShip support and their aerospace fighters were inexperienced defending, or attacking, WarShips. The vessel’s commander, Vice-Admiral Wolfgang Rossum, entered the command room and Gerardo informed him of the situation.
The two Foxes moved closer together so they could provide support for each other if necessary, even if this was just the SLDF vessel it was good practice for the crews of both vessels to work with other WarShips in mock combat trials. Because the WarShip service was only now beginning to become a mainstream profession in the AFFS, with the first WarShips launched in the early 3050s, most of the crew were old DropShip commanders or fresh from the academy green warriors.
“Sir, the surge is increasing vessel entering the system.†the day-shift sensor operator newly out of their bunk said, she like many of the command-crew were half dressed woken from the alert message, Wolfgang shook his head, they would have to get better before the Robinson left the New Syrtis system. Just then a massive eight hundred-and-twenty thousand ton, eight hundred-and-three metre long WarShip entered the system and immediately launched three DropShips before the Foxes could react then twenty-four aerospace fighters began launching from ventral launch tubes. This was not the SLDF Kirishima or a Capellan WarShip of any known design, this was someone, something, else.
“Prepare for combat, sensors I want everything from that vessel, find out who the hell they are. Helm intercept course, full acceleration speed.†There was various ‘ayes’ as the crew carried out the orders, the enemy vessel cut loose its thousand metre diameter JumpSail and opened fire with its first volley, not targeted at the WarShips but the Shipyards behind them.
Four Killer Whale Capital Missiles flew past the two Foxes, the Corvette’s point defence weapons totally ineffectual against the weapons Wolfgang decided that if he survived this he would be having a long talk with the designers of the Fox about that fact alone. The missiles flew true missing the first outer shipyards but hitting two factories in the centre of the facility. As the missiles hit their Nuclear Warheads exploded engulfing the entire area in fire damaging everything and destroying all four central based factories.
“WarShip-killers!†The weapons officer screamed as the Robinson was hit by the radiation shock wave from the missiles, thankfully the radiation hit the WarShip’s engines which were shielded against powerful radiation and neither Fox suffered any damage.
“Return fire, burn those bastards stem-to-stern†Wolfgang ordered both Foxes opened fire with Naval Lasers, Autocannons and Capital-class Barracuda Missiles. The massive enemy vessel seemed to absorb the hits without even flinching. As the enemy fighters engaged the Foxes, and their fighters, the three enemy DropShips joined the fray adding their weapons fire causing damage directly to the two defending Corvettes. “Broadside weapons target those DropShips fore and fore-quarter weapons continue to target the WarShip!†The two Corvettes continued to close on the massive enemy vessel which weighted in at nearly double the weight of the two Federated Suns vessels put together.
The WarShip opened fire again with its missiles again striking the shipyards, this time the four nuclear tipped missiles were enough to destroy the entire facility, cripple JumpShip Production for years and end twenty-five thousand Federated Suns lives. The two Foxes destroyed the three DropShips and most of the fighters in short order but then the enemy WarShip turned bearing its broadside-arc on the two vessels. First a single White Shark Missile was fired between the vessels and detonated just inside a kilometre of each vessel blinding their sensors and destroying most of the Federated Suns fighters, then four heavy Naval Autocannons ripped into the Indomitable tearing the Corvette’s armour to shreds breaching the hull and killing most of the crew. The Robinson alone continued forward, continuing to fire everything it had, the Fox was travelling at maximum speed and was intent on ramming the enemy vessel. Unfortunately the aggressor’s crew had another idea, the four autocannons turned from the Indomitable’s wreckage onto the Robinson and with a second single volley the second Federated Suns Fox’s armour was holed in multiple places venting the atmosphere across the ship, escape pods began launching and the Fox listed sickly to port, its helm completely dead, the vessel now uncontrollable, the crew helpless. A second autocannon volley ended the ship’s fight for survival and ended the lives of the crew.
Retrieving its detached JumpSail the vessel took its time recharging its jump drives, destroying three AFFS DropShips and a JumpShip during this time, before leaving the system six hours later. AFFS Recovery teams arrived in force with several WarShips in support hours later recovering every piece of wreckage as they looked to find a clue to who the aggressor was.
Gravity Deck Alpha, Conference Room
FSS Alexander Davion (Davion Block III-class Destroyer)
Epsilon Indi System, Chaos March
22nd October 3061
First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Commanding-General Duke Morgan Hasek-Davion had been in deep conversation with the New Avalon High Command for the last eighteen hours ever since the New Syrtis System Recharge Stations had reported several Nuclear detonations in the system near the JumpShip Construction Yards. The partially completed SLDF Kirishima-class Cruiser had arrived in system seven hours after the report, it had been en route for refit anyway, once there it had informed the AFFS High Command on New Avalon of the attack and the destruction of the Shipyards and two of the Federated Suns Fox-class Corvettes. The AFFS had then sent a message to Victor’s WarShip the newly refitted FSS Alexander Davion, one of the three Davion-class Destroyers that bolstered the New Avalon system during the Nova Cat Crisis. Now in the Epsilon Indi system in the centre of the Chaos March, one of the most volatile areas of space surrounding Terra, the Alexander Davion was on high combat alert while Victor decided whether or not to return to New Avalon or continue on to the Star League Conference.
“Do we know who this was?†Victor asked looking at the screen, he had to wait several minutes as the HPGs between New Avalon and Epsilon Indi relayed the message.
“Negative First Prince, we must consider our new neighbours†Marshal of Armies Jackson Davion said Victor hoped not the Nova Cats had been interesting neighbours until now, he hoped they had not become new enemies. Also he had never heard of the Clans using Nuclear Weapons, why would they need to? Their whole philosophy was set around capturing territory to become the most powerful Clan, capable of conquering Terra destroying
“Perhaps not†someone else said in the room.
“Who was that?†Victor asked not recognising the voice, he had been out of the Federated Suns for a while but the High Command hadn’t changed while he destroyed the Smoke Jaguars.
“Leftenant Jack Ryan, sire, aide to Marshal Darwith, head of MI2 Analysis and Speculation of DMI†Jackson said ready to move on.
“Jackson let’s hear Mr Ryan out, so Ryan, who do you believe this is?†Victor asked.
“Sire, the Nadir and Zenith Jump Point Recharge Stations in the New Syrtis System were untouched by the aggressor…†Ryan began to say if the Stations had been destroyed it may have been an even bigger loss than the factories.
“Not a surprise, attacking forces often use defenders Recharge Stations to charge their own jump-drives.†Morgan said quietly “this isn’t new information, or surprising.†Morgan was getting angry even though he was no longer Marshal of Armies in the Federated Suns he was still Duke of New Syrtis and his world had just been attacked indirectly by whoever was causing troubles. The High Command stirred ready to move on.
“…no sir, not surprising that they allowed the Jump Recharge Stations to survive. But surprising that they did not use the Recharge Stations.†The young analyst said continuing with his information. “By the reports from the SLDF vessel and from the Recharge Station itself the station had a full jump charge available, only one conclusion can be drawn from this, they wanted witnesses of the attack. When you factor in the fact that Nuclear weapons were used in the attack it leads you to the Taurian Concordat the only nation that has not signed the Ares Conventions and still counts Nuclear Weapons as a viable weapon of War.â€
“The Taurians have no WarShips to threaten us with, how could they destroy a Shipyard and two WarShips without their own WarShip to launch Nuclear weapons?†Field Marshal Christian Robert McCarthy asked, this man was part of his command, if not his direct subordinate, and he did not like being made to look like a fool.
“Sir, I cross referenced the information listed by the Jump Stations, with the possibility the Taurians may be involved and that a WarShip capable of deploying WarShip-Killer Missiles would be needed. After searching for six hours the Computers at NAIS found this.†The image on New Avalon then the image inside the Alexander Davion changed to a picture of a flat Delta-ray shaped vessel. “It is a Colt-class Battle-cruiser fielded by the Taurian Concordat in the waning years of the Reunification War. During this conflict five such vessels were constructed the Achilles, Perseus, Jason, Theseus, and Heracles. During the final Battle of the Horsham Shipyards the Achilles, Perseus, Jason and Theseus are all confirmed kills destroyed by the SLDF Navy. The Heracles, one of the last Taurian WarShips remaining, attacked and disabled the Yamoto, the Texas-class SLDF Flagship, when the rest of the SLDF armada returned fire on the construction platform surrounding the Heracles there was a massive blinding explosion leaving no trace of the vessel. Star League Intelligence Corps (SLIC) staff arrived and following an eighteen month investigation they believed that the Heracles had been destroyed by the fusion reactor of Horsham being self destructed by the defiant Taurian defenders. I looked over the data surviving at NAIS on the incident, sire, there is not concrete proof that the Heracles was destroyed. Also the Taurian Nuclear Weapons Count has never been verified.â€
“Why would they wait until now? If they had such a vessel they could have struck New Avalon a dozen times during the Succession Wars and there would have been little we could do.†Jackson pointed out.
“Yes, Jackson, they could have if the Heracles was operational. However the Federated Suns has proven that the Succession States could hide WarShips and renovate them when necessary and when technology was ready.†Victor said, he was standing inside one such vessel.
“But the Taurians have no such capability. Their ground forces are barely operational as it is.†Christian McCarthy said, the Intelligence chief was still not convinced.
“Unproved, we have only ever been able to penetrate certain areas of the Taurian Concordat and with the Taurians new alliance with House Liao who knows what technologies they have gained. Also I read somewhere just before Serpent that they have links to the Word of Blake, Jackson?†Morgan said quietly despite now being out of the chain of command he still knew a lot about the Federated Suns and their neighbours.
“Correct, Commanding-General†Jackson said confirming he had read the same report “the update also suggests that since they secured their position in the Terran System the Word of Blake influence has increased inside the Free Worlds League, Capellan Confederation, the Magistracy of Canopus and the Taurian Concordat.†The Word of Blake was becoming stronger and more dangerous by the day, they could be a problem in the future.
“True, Field Marshal McCarthy have Captain Ryan compel a list on where the Taurians could have hidden any WarShips safely.†He said giving the young analyst an on the spot promotion. “Admiral Petain as soon as the Avalons have been launched I want them defending New Syrtis, Galax and Kathil it looks like they want to destroy our WarShip capacity.†At present there were three Avalon-class Cruisers being built with several more planned, as soon as the three vessels were complete Victor wanted them visible and defending the most important systems of the Federated Suns Navy. “Jackson, as soon I am back, we will go looking for this hidden anchorage. In the meantime keep everyone on their toes, it could be any day now but I am willing to bet that if the Taurians were behind this they will launch another attack and soon.â€
“That could start a War.†Jackson said warning Victor of the consequences.
“As far as I am concerned, Marshal of Armies, they started this War, we are going to end it. I will see you in a few months.†He said cutting the link with New Avalon.
“Sire, I must warn you that if the Federated Suns goes to war against the Taurian Concordat the Star League may intervene.†Morgan said quietly, this action could put them on opposite sides of conflict with Morgan just in the job.
“No you could not, Morgan, the Taurians are not members of the Star League you could not intervene. Trust me Morgan the people of New Syrtis will be avenged.†Victor said he could see that although Morgan was upholding his duties as Commanding-General the attack on New Syrtis Shipyards had claimed many lives of people from New Syrtis.
“Thank you, sire.†Morgan said quietly, he wanted revenge as much as, if not more, than Victor up until Serpent the Capellan March had been his responsibility and New Syrtis was still his world, his system, someone had conducted a devastating attack on him, soon they would pay the price.
-
Second Whitting Conference
Marik, Marik Commonwealth
Free Worlds League
10th November 3061
The Whitting Conference had been delayed for several days because of Victor and Morgan’s delay following the attack on New Syrtis. Because Thomas Marik was the current First Lord the Conference had moved to Thomas Marik’s Homeworld inside the Free Worlds League when Victor and Morgan arrived no-one commented on their lateness or the attack, no-one wanted to be associated with it.
One thing that had been commented on was Danai’s presence at Victor’s side and the transport used to bring the Federated Suns leader to the conference. So far there had been more questions about Victor’s Davion III-class Destroyer than Katherine/Katrina’s Hyperion or Thomas Marik’s Artemis-class SLS Unity City. Victor had rebuffed most questions regarding the vessel and its sister ships still under refit in the Federated Suns, at the same time he quietly wondered what would have happened if he had turned up in the Thunderchild and smiled, ‘then they would have been running scared.’
He also noticed Danai watching the Magistracy of Canopus group moving around with the Capellan Confederation delegation at the other side of the room. Victor was not Danai’s keeper, and he did not consider them to be in a relationship - not yet, she could do what she wanted but the Duchess seemed content standing at Victor‘s side much to the annoyance of the Capellan Chancellor. It was also something the entire Inner Sphere would be talking about for weeks to come which Victor enjoyed immensely.
A couple of hours before there had been a small informal meeting between Victor and Hohiro Kurita the Draconis Combine leader had expressed his displeasure Victor had dropped his sister for a Periphery slut. Years before Victor would have lashed out at the Draconis Combine leader but this time he had just walked off.
Victor realised that Hohiro was a friend looking out for his little sister and if the tables were turned and Hohiro had been seeing Yvonne, or even Katherine, Victor may have had the same reaction but he could not say that to Hohiro and decided that he would give the Draconis Combine and the leading family of that nation a wide berth from now on. The Federated Suns and Draconis Combine were no longer the allies they had been during the initial Clan Invasion, the ties were slowly being cut. Only the Star League and the damage they had done would keep the two nations from tearing into each other just like they had done before the Clan Invasion. If it was down to people like Victor’s brother Arthur or the hardliners in the Draconis Combine the two nations were be at war again Clans or no Clans, Victor hoped they would be able to avoid it but if they came to blows he would not stop until honour had been satisfied, he understood he Combine Samurai culture as best any outsider could and knew that if war came the Federated Suns would have to get their attention to stop the conflict spiralling out of control.
At the first council meeting Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion announced that the newly formed Second Royal BattleMech Regiment and its support were on Kittery and were ready for deployment. He also announced that because of Capellan Confederation actions the SLDF would be required in the St Ives Compact to stop the war escalading. Also Morgan announced, much to the shock of the Succession Lords, that Kittery would become the SLDF’s new Headquarters with additional training bases on Warlock, in the St Ives Compact, and at the Focht War College on Tukayyid, in the Free Rasalhague Republic. Katherine Steiner-Davion and Sun-Tzu Liao both looked particularly annoyed at this development.
There was a buzz to the air. New Star League rules dictated a Succession Lord could be First Lord once every cycle, meaning Thomas Marik could not be First Lord again until all other Succession Lords had been First Lord once. Also invited to this conference were the leaders of the Taurian Concordat and Magistracy of Canopus at the insistence of the Capellan Confederation. Various ComStar and Word of Blake Adepts and Acolytes were moving around although neither organisation had any power at this conference.
Although Danai Centrella and her sister were both on Atreus and had even been in the same room for much of the day. Danai never strayed far from Victor’s side and Naomi never left Sun-Tzu Liao’s side meaning the sisters never spoke. It was sad but a way of the Inner Sphere and of politics.
Ross McKinnon’s Flat
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
12th November 3061
Lying in bed for almost three days straight may sound lazy, but Ross McKinnon and his fiancée, Rachel Montgomery, were together for the first time in three months following duty assignments. Now they were making up for lost time and making wedding arrangements, so far they had decided that the wedding would be on New Avalon and that it would be a large affair. Looking down the list of possible guests Ross stopped and looked to Rachel “what is this?†He said pausing on one of the names, Star Colonel Canin Rosse. “You want him to come?†Ross had no objections for the Nova Cat Star Colonel coming to the wedding, he just had no idea how it would happen or even if the Star Colonel would be willing to attend.
“He is responsible for us being together.†Rachel said, she wanted the perfect wedding, in her mind if it had not been for the year-and-a-half the Fox’s Teeth and her Rabid Fox had been trapped on Tortuga with the Nova Cats then Ross and her would never have gotten together. “I would also like to see his unit there to.†She said going down the list, leaving the details in Ross' hands.
“I could… nah maybe not†Ross whispered trying to think of a way to get this to work there was only one option in his mind and he highly doubted it would be allowed, an entire Trinary of Clan Nova Cat warriors deep in the Federated Suns.
“What was that honey?†Rachel said not looking up from her position.
“Nothing dear†Ross said, this was his job, he’d figure something out or this wedding could be dead before it got off the ground.
Second Whitting Conference
Marik, Marik Commonwealth
Free Worlds League
14th November 3061
It was time to vote for a new First Lord however Thomas Marik had one last thing to announce as First Lord. “My assembled Lords, my time as First Lord has been one of great success for the Star League Defence Force.†He said despite the Free Worlds League military actually doing little during Bulldog they had been instrumental in Serpent’s success and in the establishment of the Embassies on Huntress and Strana Mechty, which they still guarded today. “In an effort to bolster the Star League and show that the Free Worlds League gives its full support to the organisation I host this Conference, I am here today to take part in this vote and announce that the Fusiliers of Oriente, Fifth Brigade have asked to return to their SLDF designation and rejoin the Star League Defence Force as the Twenty-eighth Hussar Regulars. Assuming the Commanding-General agrees to this transfer I have granted this request.†Thomas said there was a low murmuring around the room, none of the Succession Lords had expected any house to allow any former SLDF units to return to the nascent league.
Standing Morgan Hasek-Davion addressed the Succession Lords “Captain-General, the Star League Defence Force would be glad to welcome any former SLDF unit back into its arms. The Twenty-eighth Hussar Regulars are more than welcome, as are any unit, I would personally like to thank you for your support and your successful time as First Lord.†As Morgan sat there was a rousing applause for his words and Marik’s gift to the SLDF. Morgan sat down with a smile on his face whatever happened it was a good day.
It was time for the vote for a New First Lord. Thomas Marik as exiting First Lord had first vote. “One Clan has been taken care of, perhaps it is time the Star League was used to take care of a second. I nominate Archon Katrina Steiner for the position of First Lord.†Morgan shot a glance at Victor, Katherine and Thomas Marik, perhaps there was a way to mess up the day he thought coldly.
“Does the Lyran Alliance leader agree to this nomination?†The chairperson asked looking at the Lyran leader who wore a long dark low-cut Steiner blue dress that showed plenty of her cleavage not that Katherine was interested in winning the attention of any of the Succession Lords, she just knew that if she had it she should flaunt it.
“I graciously refuse the nomination†Katherine said quietly, there was widespread shock in the room, Katherine had made no effort to ever hide her desire of being First Lord however no-one had ever thought anyone else would ever nominate her. “It is not time for another war against the Clans, it is time for peace in the Inner Sphere. I will not lead an organisation that is solely formed to annihilate the Clans.†Almost all eyes turned on Morgan and Victor, they sat closely together but not at the same table, one had to speak Morgan began to stand but Victor beat him to it. “It is time for the Star League Defence Force to better all of the Inner Sphere.â€
“I agree with my sister, Katherine†Victor said using her full name as he raised from his table, everyone in the room looked surprised except Danai Centrella who looked at Victor with pure pride in her eyes he had not gone aggressive and lost votes like many had expected instead he had played the same game as Katherine, only time would tell if he had been right to do so. “The first Star League was formed to bring in a golden age for humanity, an age where the peoples of the Inner Sphere put aside their differences to better life for everyone. The Clans distracted us with their Invasion, however we have shown them we can hold them back and if necessary to defeat them on their own ground. Now it is time for the peoples of the Inner Sphere to improve life for all. To show there is no bad blood brought to this Conference, I nominate Coordinator Hohiro Kurita leader of the Draconis Combine for the post of First Lord.†Again there was widespread shock, the Federated Suns and the Draconis Combine were traditional enemies not allies Victor knew this could cause trouble at home for him and in the Combine for Hohiro with people on both sides of the border hating the two leaders were getting on but he hoped most people would see it exactly for what it was, a political game to stop his sister‘s ascension to the position of First Lord.
“I will second this†Katrina said standing looking at Victor and no-one else, she had planned this to be an attack on Victor, show that he was the warrior and nothing else however Victor had spun everything on its head and thrown it back in her face.
“I agree chairperson, and allow me to thank the First Prince and Archon the Draconis Combine will treasure this moment.†Hohiro said not moving to stand a smile crossed his lips, in Hohiro’s eyes Katrina had just committed political suicide. At the SLDF table Morgan Hasek-Davion was also smiling however he’d just seen Victor beat Katherine at her own game.
“I nominate Elected-Prince Christian Mansdotter†Sun-Tzu Liao said quietly “the Free Rasalhague Republic could use any support it is given, especially with the ComGuards so badly mauled during the campaign against the Smoke Jaguars.â€
“I second this motion†Precentor-Marital Anastasius Focht of ComStar said, although ComStar were still only a military force because of the threat posed by the Word of Blake ComStar had been given some provisional voting rights, although they still could not nominate people they could second votes.
The votes went around the room Victor, Katherine, Candice Liao and Thomas Marik voted for Hohiro while Sun-Tzu Liao and Anastasius Focht, voted for Christian Mansdotter four-two in favour for the Draconis Combine leader. Christian Mansdotter was the first to congratulate Hohiro Kurita before leaving the room.
“I’m impressed brother, I was not expecting you to support the Draconis Combine, perhaps your nation has moved on from beating people over the head when you don‘t get what you want.â€
“Thank you Katherine†he said using her given name “but please don‘t forget when we see a threat we can still hit it over the head.†He said smiling back at his sister picking up a couple of papers, he had just implied that the Draconis Combine posed no-threat without saying it directly. “I brought with me five Regiments from the Federated Suns for SLDF Contract make sure they are treated well.â€
“I will I promise you. I visited my sister on New Avalon when you were away†she said pausing to see if Victor showed any reaction but the next comment came from behind.
“And we heard you ran away as fast as you could when there was a half finished Kirishima in-bound on its way to the New Syrtis Shipyards.†Morgan said quietly Katherine shot the Commanding-General a glance.
“Your sure it was a Kirishima? Seemed larger than a simple Draconis Combine Cruiser.†She said following Victor’s lead in insulting the Draconis Combine, this time their WarShip design.
“I’m quite sure Katherine, the people of New Avalon were quite shocked when they heard that you had neglected to even stay in case of a major attack. Thankfully the Kirishima did not launch an attack and is now safely in the New Syrtis system WarShip Shipyards which survived the attack by the mystery vessel.†Morgan said stepping forward supporting Victor, he knew little of the attack or the enemy vessel they were taking about but noticed Victor was wanting it kept a secret.
“I was sorry to hear about the attack on your system Duke Hasek, are you sure you should be here and not tending to your people. Victor, there is no-way that vessel was a Kirishima, what little surprise did you bring back from Clan Space?â€
“The First Prince needs no Clan surprises to defend the Federated Suns from threats, Archon, the people of New Avalon know that he fully believes in the Federated Suns and that he was able to bring home all of his people from the Lyran Alliance reuniting dozens of families. The Lyran people also believe in Victor because he reunited their people also, we can only hope that these nations realise that you have led the Lyran people down the wrong path and re-forge the Federated Commonwealth.†Danai said changing the subject as she raised to her feet, she wore a full length red dress and with her long dark hair worn up she was in complete contrast to Katrina’s short blond hair and blue dress.
“Ah, Duchess Centrella, I was sorry to hear about your mother.†Katherine said smiling “a great loss…†Katherine said just as the Capellan leader broke in.
“An even greater loss when a sister and daughter will not even return home to see her mother’s grave and pay her respects, instead she remains with her toy boy lover in a foreign realm.†Victor was about to reply but Morgan beat him to it.
“Sun-Tzu Liao†Morgan said, not even using the Chancellor’s rank of position which was protocol, the Haseks had always faced over the border to the Capellans, Morgan would show the man no respect. “By order of the Star League Defence Force I order you to withdraw your force.â€
“I will not, and there is nothing you can do, this is an internal dispute. The only way you can interfere is if we break international borders. Only the Federated Suns has done so, three of its units are in the St Ives Commonality as we speak.†Sun-Tzu said trying to put the blame on the Federated Suns for his little war.
“You’re dead wrong Chancellor†Morgan said emphasising the ‘dead’ part to show his feelings, as Commanding-General he should be neutral however he knew what the Capellans were like during war. “The Federated Suns is defending St Ives Constitutional rights that state that any Federated Suns units based in the St Ives Compact are allowed to defend themselves, their allies and their bases from any foreign force including the defenders of St Ives themselves if trouble arises. Also before she left Duchess Candice Liao sent me this†he said handing Sun-Tzu a letter, a few people looked around an noticed the entire St Ives and the Draconis Combine delegations were already gone and the Free Rasalhague Republic group was leaving. The First Whitting Conference had lasted nearly two months the Second Conference had lasted less than a week. “This is an official call for Star League Defence Force Support in pushing back your marauding hoards. Now unless you want to face the SLDF in battle I suggest you pull back.â€
“I will not, the St Ives Commonality belongs to the Capellan Confederation, I do not abandon my people or my friends.†Sun-Tzu said looking accusingly at Victor, who had all but abandoned the Lyran half of the Federated Commonwealth at the First Whitting Conference.
“Then Sun-Tzu your people better be ready for trouble, because it is coming your way.†Victor said the group broke up and within the hour the Second Royal BattleMech Regiment of the SLDF had crossed the Federated Suns border and joined the defenders of St Ives. The newly joined Twenty-eighth Hussar Regulars had been sent a message to move to the St Ives Compact as had two Regiments of the Eridani Light Horse and the SLS Shining Claw, the Ghost Bear Congress-class Frigate used by the ELH.
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In-system Burn
Milos, St Ives Compact
15th November 3061
Although officially the Second Royal BattleMech Regiment had only been together for six months in fact they had been together since the Battle of Luzerne over two years before, they had faced the Smoke Jaguars as part of the SLDF even though they were from different organisations. The two were now one, under the Star League Defence Force every DropShip, Fighter, Mech, Armoured Vehicle and Infantry trooper carried a Cameron Star on their uniform.
The Second Royal BattleMech Regiment was actually four Regiments, One Mech, One Armour, One Infantry and One a mixed bag of units they were all supported by an entire wing of fighters and an entire squadron of Assault DropShips making it the strongest unit in the entire SLDF. Although the First had the experience and technology advantage the Second had pure numbers. Lieutenant-General Marguerite McCafee sat in her Stone Rhino BattleMech’s cockpit waiting for the Drop, the Mech she piloted now was a captured Smoke Jaguar design one of the few operation Clan Mechs in the unit, the rest were mostly refitted Inner Sphere designs that dated back centuries although a couple were brand-new OmniMechs gained from the Draconis Combine. The although the Clans called the Mech Behemoth the Inner Sphere had called it Stone Rhino as there was a tank named the Behemoth. The Stone Rhino weighed in at one hundred tons it carried a heavy array of paired large pulse lasers, Gauss Rifles and an overhead mounted Extended-Range Large Laser. Although slow with a top speed of only fifty-four kilometres per hour the Mech mounted heavy armour and three jump jets for extended mobility.
Marguerite opened up her command frequency the comm. signal spread to all the ships, about twenty DropShips in all. “Okay people here we go again, No WarShips to worry about this time†she tried to make a joke out of the last drop they encountered over Luzerne but even she could not smile under the Davion and ComGuard flags her troops had suffered greatly under the guns of Clan Smoke Jaguar. “The defenders of Milos have been resisting the Capellans for almost two years, they are outnumbered and outgunned but they haven’t given up. I don’t know about you, but this sounds familiar to me.†She said, everyone on the DropShips knew what she was still thinking about Luzerne, for some of them it would never leave them, the Smoke Jaguars had outnumbered and outgunned them for months and had WarShip support cutting off their exit, so far the Capellans didn‘t have WarShips but the situation on Milos was eerily similar. “We are going to give the Capellans a chance to surrender on the drop and when we hit that turf any Capellan that hasn’t run back to his mommy is getting a gauss slug.†She imagined she could hear a cheer run through the ships from her troops ready to finally get back into the fight “the Second St Ives Lancers know we are coming, they have pulled their regiment’s forces and the attached militia back to their bases so everyone we see on the ground is a target. Good hunting and I’ll see you on the ground.†She said cutting off the transmission, then she cried in the silence of her captured Clan BattleMech the Lieutenant-General cried, it was getting too much. Every night she thought of Luzerne, every night she saw friends and comrades cut down by the Smoke Jaguars, hopefully this fight would put those nightmares out of her mind.
Breaking through the atmosphere the fighters of the Fifty-first Crucis Interceptor Wing engaged the few Capellan fighters that had been sent up to resist the twenty-four strong DropShip force of the Regiment. Supported by an assault DropShip squadron specifically tasked with clearing our enemy DropShips and major ground based installations the Capellans retreated from the sky with the Second not loosing a single DropShip in the landing phase although the Fifty-first did loose a squadron‘s worth of fighters. With this attack on the DropShips Marguerite passed the word that the Capellans were now considered hostile to the SLDF. She then passed the word to the Aerospace commander to attack all targets in the area as long as ordinance and fuel permitted.
The escorting fighters and assault DropShips broke from formation and drove on the Capellan ground forces. The Fifty-first Crucis was formerly a House Davion unit inherited completely from the Third Davion Guards, however supporting them were an entire squadron of six Chippewa Assault Fighters which had served the 208th ComGuard Division, this gave the Fifty-first a powerful bite. The fighters flew over the area attacking any Capellan unit that moved allowing the DropShips to land unmolested, they then escorted the assault DropShips to the local spaceport and helped them secure the airspace around the landing zone, a Jump Infantry Battalion and a Battle Armour Battalion Dropped from the DropShips and secured landing zones for the DropShips and the Fifty-first Crucis’ Fighters.
Stepping her Stone Rhino from the Fortress-class Tremor, that served as the Second’s command base Marguerite spied her first targets, a lance of Capellan Heavy-Assault Mechs. Not even waiting for her whole lance to form up Marguerite charged forward accelerating the Stone Rhino to its top speed of fifty-four kilometres per hour. In range she triggered the over head large laser then both torso mounted Gauss Rifles knocking a Capellan Atlas on its back with one attack, the Mech was not out but she‘d slowed it. Switching her targets she was ready to fire again when all three standing Capellan Mechs opened fire at once all targeting her Mech, angry that she‘d have the audacity to attack a lance alone and surprised with the Mech‘s ferocity seeing it as a major threat.
A seventy-five ton Lao Hu opened fire with its own large laser and fifteen LRMs, the laser burned the Stone Rhino’s left leg while the LRMs struck near the torso mounted gauss rifle but causing no lasting damage. Then a seventy ton Cataphract opened fire with its dual autocannons tearing into the Stone Rhino’s legs again, Marguerite fought for control of the Clan assault Mech and charge on triggering both large pulse lasers in defiance damaging the Cataphract’s left arm. The sixty-five ton Junggau fired its Gauss Rifle blowing a massive chunk of armour off the right arm while the fourth Capellan Mech a ninety ton Yu Huang opened fire with its Extended Range PPC and massive assault LB-class Autocannon. The PPC missed by a hair fizzling the air alongside the Stone Rhino’s cockpit while the Autocannon blasted flak all over the torso of the Stone Rhino causing little but widespread damage over the assault Mech.
Now in close to her targets Marguerite went to work, both Large Pulse Lasers cut into the side of the Cataphract then the left arm smashed into the seventy ton Mech, the Capellan pilot not expecting the savage attack lost control and crashed his Mech into the dirt. Twisting the Stone Rhino’s torso to the left Marguerite triggered both gauss rifles, the weapons normally suffered from being so close but this time the flew true and straight into the Junggau, the first slug tore off the Mech’s left arm while the second crushed the knee actuator. Marguerite never even waited to finish off the Mech launching the Stone Rhino up into the air on its Jump Jets she sent the Assault Mech backwards landing just behind the Lao Hu allowing Marguerite to fire the large laser straight into the Mech’s weak rear armour causing some penetration and some gyroscope damage. The heavy Mech unable to balance without its gyro working at full power fell forwards slamming into the ground crushing the cockpit on a large bolder killing the pilot.
The enemy Yu Huang turned, it was now the only undamaged Mech and the most dangerous. Marguerite braced for the hit, but just as the Capellan warrior was preparing to fire the Yu Huang’s back exploded as the Tremor, fired it’s nose mounted Long Tom Artillery Cannon providing support for the ground troops now the DropShip was fully grounded. It wasn’t a direct hit but it was close enough and knocked the Capellan’s shot off meaning that only the Yu Huang’s PPC hit causing some torso damage. Marguerite exploited the Capellan’s misfortune and blasted the Yu Huang with both Large Pulse Lasers, both Gauss Rifles and the overhead large laser, she then triggered both yet unused medium pulse lasers as well. The heat inside the Stone Rhino was unbearable but as Marguerite slapped the override she saw the Capellan Yu Huang slam backwards into the ground its head a burning ruin. As the rest of Marguerite’s Command Company arrived the three surviving Capellan Atlas and crippled Junggau surrendered, knowing if they resisted they would be committing suicide. Marguerite walked her Mech back to the Tremor and into the DropShip’s cargo bay, even taking on an entire Lance of Capellan Mechs had not released her, she would need to overcome these feelings soon or people around her would begin to die.
Isis Marik’s Guest Quarters
Imperial Palace, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
15th December 3061
The winter had come early to the Draconis Combine’s capital, or at least that was what the locals said, Isis cared nothing for the weather she had been here for almost six months and still she did not know what she should do or more importantly what she wanted to do. The doors opened and Omiko Kurita entered “Omi?†Isis asked surprised Omi rarely came to see her normally she waited for them to ‘bump’ into each other, in fact Isis saw Omilko’s brothers Minoru and Hohiro more than she did Omi herself.
“Isis, how are you?â€
“Fine I guess, I’m lost Omi, I don’t know what I want to do.â€
“Perhaps I have a solution for your problem.â€
“You do how?†Isis asked, she had thought Omi was looking after herself and allowing Isis to do the same but really she had been thinking of Isis all along, she was a true friend.
“I was thinking about your problems and the situation you have found yourself in, I was looking for a solution for it†Omi said stepping away looking out the window but looking at the ground outside.
“Omi what is it?â€
“You must forgive me, Isis, I have intruded in your personnel life… I only searched for meaning to help you, forgive me.†Omi said stepping away back towards the doors as if realising she had done something wrong.
“Omi, wait†Omiko Kurita stopped immediately but remained turned to the door. “What did you find that could help me? You found something or you would not have come.â€
“I found someone that has found themselves in the same position as you. Unsure about the path they are walking an lost to the world.â€
“Who?†Isis asked, she could not think of anyone as hard off in life as her disowned by her father and dumped by the man she loved for another woman.
“Victor’s brother, Peter†Omi said, she still said Victor’s name with a smile as she turned to face Isis. “Peter was a promising officer in Victor’s army but others used him for their purposes. Lost without his parents and with his brother struggling with his own problems he sought out Morgan Kell who took him to Saint Marinus House on the world of Zaniah in the Lyran Alliance. Although he may not be able to help you the people there may help you find answers, as may a change of scenery.â€
“You want me to leave?†Isis asked, she had not expected Omi to ask her to go.
“No, no, Isis stay as long as you want. I want to see you get better, to live and enjoy your life. Stuck here in this room, in this palace, hiding from the world is no way for you to live. Think about it please, and accept my apologies for the intrusion.†Omiko said leaving the room quickly before Isis could speak again. After several days of seclusion Isis searched out Omi and thanked her for her help then two days later found passage to Zaniah, she would try her friends idea, it could do her no worst than remaining in seclusion on Luthien.
Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission
Contract Negotiations Offices
Outreach, Chaos March
21st December 3061
Although most things were winding down for the Christmas and New Years celebrations the Mercenary trade rarely stopped, especially on Outreach home to the Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission (MRBC) and home to Wolf’s Dragoons the most powerful Mercenaries in the Inner Sphere. Wolf’s Dragoons were originally a Clan intelligence operation that had entered the Inner Sphere posing as mercenaries, after decades of service to the various Inner Sphere realms, including stopping an entire Draconis Combine Invasion of the Federated Suns during the Fourth Succession War, an act that had won them Ownership of the world of Outreach from Hanse Davion, they had turned on their Clan masters and refused a recall order just before the Clan invasion.
Now Wolf’s Dragoons rarely took contracts content to protect Outreach with their formerly Clan owned WarShip fleet and their massive ground forces, the Dragoons maintained their edge by fighting every new Mercenary unit on the block and maintaining a technological advantage over all their opponents employing massed formations of Elemental Battle Armour amongst their infantry and clan weapons technology on their Mechs, vehicles and aerospace fighters.
Outreach had been the centre of the legitimate mercenary trade in the Inner Sphere for the last twenty years and this brought Wolf‘s Dragoons great prestige and a steady income without risking themselves. Although they had fought in both the First and Second Battles of Luthien costing them an entire Regiment of troops which had brought massive respect from around the Inner Sphere and even the Clans, who generally despised the Dragoons for everything they stood for, the Dragoons still refused to take regular contracts happy to remain on Outreach in relative peace watching for trouble that could threaten their position in the Chaos March or the position of any of their allies.
Colonel Harry Sanders, commander and founder of the Stalwart Support Regiment, had not expected a contract negotiation to begin this late in the year however the source was highly creditable and interested him so he had gone along to the MRBC Hiring Hall on Outreach, the Stalwart Support were still on New Canton, a world in the Chaos March and a world they had been on for the last ten years in garrison duty.
Entering the room Harry saw that he was not being fooled around with, the man he had been told would be here was sitting behind the desk, Commanding-General Duke Morgan Hasek-Davion commander of the SLDF. Harry immediately stood up straighter and walked up to the desk, Morgan raised as the Colonel approached “sire, it is a great honour to meet you.†Harry said saluting, Morgan was not his Duke or anywhere near Harry’s chain of command but his reputation and standing in the Inner Sphere demanded great respect. Morgan immediately returned the salute and offered Harry his hand, something which Harry took with great respect and gave Morgan an solid handshake. Morgan directed Harry to sit and the Colonel sat down opposite Morgan.
“Colonel, I heard your unit was thinking about leaving New Canton and finding a new contract?â€
“We are experiencing more combat than expected and our employers are unwilling to match the pay we expect. We have begun trying to bring the MRBC into the negotiations, if they do not progress then we will be looking for something new, the SLDF wouldn’t like to hire and Infantry Regiment would they?†Harry said smiling half jokingly, the Stalwart Support Regiment were almost entirely made up of conventional infantry troopers with some artillery and some VTOL support added.
“Maybe†Morgan said, Harry was floored, he hadn’t expected Morgan to be offering the Stalwart Support a contract with the SLDF. He had to be careful he’d heard horror stories of Infantry attacking the Clans and being massacred by their Elementals and BattleMech Mounted Anti-Infantry Pods, Harry would not allow his men to be massacred so easily. “What the SLDF is really looking at is an entirely new type of unit. Something we could use in the Chaos March for garrison duty and as peacekeepers and a unit that could equally be put up against the Clans or another front-line unit and give them a bloody nose.â€
“My Regiment have been on Garrison Duty on New Canton for the last ten years, however recently we have been tackling much heavier opponents. With respect General I will not allow my unit to be used as anyone’s plaything or rat-test case especially not against the Clans, I‘ve heard enough horror stories of PBIs (Poor Bloody Infantry) against them to last a lifetime.â€
“And I would not expect the Stalwart Support to for fill such duties, your reputation is far greater than that kind of treatment deserves. In fact I would like to use your unit as a training unit for a new Battle Armour Corps I want to form.â€
“Battle Armour Corps?†Harry asked astonished he‘d never heard anything about such a thing but it intrigued him “but the Stalwart Support have no Battle Armour to speak of!†Harry said, he’d dreamed of upgrading his regiment to Battle Armour troops but they had never the money to pull off that kind of transfer and probably never would, still it was a dream and sometimes they came true.
“I am aware of that Colonel, that is why I was wondering if your troopers would be interested in permanently signing up with the Star League Defence Force. Would the Stalwart Support be interested in forming the core of the Battle Armour Corps under the command of Lieutenant-General Harry Sanders?†Harry was gob smacked, he couldn’t believe what he had just heard.
“You’d want to buy my unit and turn us into a Battle Armour Regiment under my command? I‘m a bit old to become a Battle Armour trooper.†Harry was only in his late fifties but he hadn’t been in the field for years tied up with contract negotiations and making the nobles of New Canton happy with his regiment‘s work.
“That’s right, allow me to be completely straight forward with you Colonel. The Chaos March is a mess, one way I want to tackle it is by having a peacekeeper force on every planet, at the core of each force will be a Battle Armour Battalion supported by VTOLs and artillery and maybe Mechs later. What I need is a well trained infantry force that can transfer to battle armour. I need and infantry force that can work with artillery and VTOLs. And I need a commander who is able to deal with planetary and city leaders with enough finesse. Tell me what other unit meets those criteria?†Harry sat there dumbfounded he didn’t know what to say. “Colonel?â€
“Sir†Harry said standing up saluting, Morgan slowly raised to his feet and returned the salute. “I think we can deal, where do you want to form this Corps of yours?â€
“Well Lieutenant-Genera†Morgan said using Harry’s new rank for the first time seriously “I was thinking we could go to New Canton and see if they would be interested in having a permanent Battle Armoured SLDF presence replace their mercenary defenders.†Morgan said shaking Harry’s hand Harry burst into laughter as they walked to the exit. Over the next few days the Stalwart Support Regiment were officially bought from Colonel Harry Sanders by the Star League Defence Force. Normally this would have made the owner of the regiment a rich man but the Stalwart Support were in so much debt so Harry got out with little profits and sacrificed being his own boss for working for someone else something he said he’d never do. Then again every one of his troopers including Harry could now rely on a constant wage from the SLDF something mercenaries could not rely on, that was they could rely on a constant wage after they agreed to join the SLDF something he was sure few warriors would refuse.
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3062
Khan Santin West’s Office, Alpha Galaxy Command
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
12th January 3062
The Phillip Drummond City was well under construction as was the Clan’s new Genetic Repository, Clan Nova Cat was completely secure on New Barcella, Khan Santin West had heard that some of the civilians from Tortuga were also becoming productive members of the Clan’s civilian castes helping the Nova Cats begin to explore the thousands of islands that were scattered across the planet’s massive ocean. Today was not about New Barcella however today Khan Santin West would meet with the Clan’s scientists to discuss the progress they were making terraforming the former Tortuga Dominion worlds into liveable worlds unlike New Barcella, which was a near paradise, worlds like Tortuga Prime, Morgan’s Holdfast and Fletcher’s Feast all undeveloped former pirate worlds were struggling to find their feet and support their populations. For the last two years Nova Cat scientists had been trying to Terraform the worlds into more Terra-like habitats.
Looking out his sixth floor office Khan Santin West looked at Philip Drummond City roughly a kilometre away, he was beginning to understand Biccon Winters decision to have her office so high up, the view was breathtaking. In the other direction Santin could see the boundaries of the Ways of Seeing National Park, over one hundred square kilometres of untouched land, it was there several prides of nova cats were being bred by the Scientist Caste, soon they would be released to explore the rest of the land of New Barcella. Just then there was a knock at the door “enter!†Santin called and a pair of female scientists entered “please take a seat and begin when you are ready†Santin said over his shoulder.
“My Khan†the first and older woman said “we have endeavoured to terraform the three worlds and have made great steps towards gaining out goal…â€
“These steps are?†Santin asked breaking in cutting the woman off, he still looked out the windows.
“Higher oxygen content on all worlds, better ground nutrients and on Tortuga we have discovered an underground water supply that we are hoping to bring to the surface to create the planets first river linking the two largest bodies of water.â€
“Good work, how long until we see results?â€
“With current supplies six years to a decade†the younger woman said.
“Six years…†Santin said quietly that was longer than he had expected, perhaps the Nova Cat Clan would have to move some of its population back to the Homeworlds or conqueror some more habitable planets.
“We have another solution…†The younger woman said
“No Miranda†the older scientist said.
“Speak, what is this alternative?â€
“Although our isolation has brought us security while we colonised the Nova Cat’s Den we have ignored our allies. Some of us believe it is time we included our allies in terraforming these worlds. During the Golden Century the Nova Cats worked closely with the Diamond Sharks…â€
“I know our history, Scientist Miranda, if we were to include the Diamond Sharks how quicker would things go?†He asked, he had been thinking of informing the Diamond Sharks of the Nova Cat situation for a while anyway, perhaps it was time the Nova Cats gained some help, the Clan’s dealings with the Inner Sphere were at an end for now anyway.
“Assuming all things went to plan the time scale would be three-to-five years until the worlds were more comfortable for sizable civilian populations.†Miranda said
“A fifty percent reduction†Santin West said turning “why do you oppose this?†He asked turning to face the older woman.
“It would compromise the Nova Cats security and the time scale is dependant on whether or not things go to plan.â€
“Security is my concern time scale with work how it always does fluidly. Scientist Miranda, you will leave for the Homeworlds with the next trade convoy in six days, once in the Homeworlds contact Galaxy Commander Kelly Hardo, Sigma Galaxies commander, she will contact the Diamond Sharks for you.â€
“Me?†The younger woman asked surprised, she was the more junior scientist.
“It is your idea, your project, Good Luck Scientist General, dismissed†Santin said turning back to the view, in the distance a DropShip was taking off and in the air several aerospace fighters were conducting manoeuvres.
The Clan’s future here was secure for now but they had to constantly look to the future, Santin had spotted on the maps a possible place for expansion of the Nova Cat’s Den that would be their next task. An hour later Galaxy Commander Ajax Drummond, commander of Tau Galaxy, and Star Colonel Canin Rosse, commander of the Watch Trinary arrived Santin had a job for them, the first of many the Nova Cats would act on. In deep space another group of Nova Cats were also preparing to act, beginning Santin’s long term plans. When the new Scientist General left Oathmaster Jal Steiner joined her, in the Homeworlds he would be attending the proposed Clan Cloud Cobra Babylon Religious Diet on Babylon, it would be the first meeting of Inner Sphere and Clan religious leaders ever and the Nova Cats unique mysticism would not be missing for any reason.
Antares System, Inner Sphere
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
21st January 3062
Two days after their arrival on the Jade Falcon/Lyran Alliance Border the Blue Star Irregulars launched their first probing strike against the Jade Falcons. The Blue Star Irregulars were under SLDF contract for the next year and their job was not to keep the Clan menace contained but to constantly probe the Clan’s defences and look for weaknesses, because they were new to the border and many of the junior warriors had not met the Clans in battle the Irregular Commanders had chosen Antares as the target, a small border world the Jade Falcons had three clusters on planet and a Vincent Mk-42 Corvette in the system.
The mercenaries mission was two fold, train their junior warriors and damage the Vincent, enough to force the Jade Falcons to withdraw the vessel from the Inner Sphere. If possible there was a third part to the mission, liberate the planet but that was only a distant secondary objective.
The three Mech Regiments went in first with the Fredasa-class Corvette Kerensky’s Blues leading the DropShips, six hours behind them followed the majority of the armour and half of the infantry from each brigade (the rest were back on the Blue Star Irregular’s base world guarding their civilians.) The plan was simple the Kerensky’s Blues and the fighters support would gain orbital and atmosphere superiority while the Mechs dropped to the ground, the MechWarriors would secure a beachhead on the planet for the armour to land and secure the landing zones. Once secure the Mechs would move on the Jade Falcon positions.
Unfortunately plans never lasted past contact with the enemy. Inside the Antares system the Jade Falcons did not have a Vincent Mk-42-class Corvette like Lyran Alliance Intelligence has said they did instead a Whirlwind-class Destroyer, the Emerald Tornado, was inside the system. A Whirlwind was a far superior vessel than the Vincent expected and more importantly a far superior vessel than the Kerensky’s Blues.
With this fact changed the Blue Star plan went from offence to defence as the entire force aborted the mission and looked to escape the system with the Kerensky’s Blues, half a dozen DropShips and the Blue Star Irregular’s entire Aerospace Fighter Group engaging the Emerald Tornado, four Jade Falcon DropShips and roughly an entire cluster of aerospace fighters.
After a duel lasting nearly six hours the Blue Star Irregulars seemed to be winning the battle, the entire ground force contingent had escaped as had two of the DropShips that had attacked the Emerald Tornado, however it was at a cost the Kerensky’s Blues was heavily damaged with the K-F Drive badly damaged and almost all the aerospace fighters were destroyed. Unable to jump and unwilling to surrender the Kerensky’s Blues, a vessel that had once been a Jade Falcon WarShip. The vessels commander ordered the Kerensky’s Blues forwards at full speed the forwards guns fell silent as the crew began evacuations. The Emerald Tornado not expecting such a moved was unable to stop the Fredasa striking the Whirlwind in the starboard mid-ship area, the fast moving corvette smashed through the outer decks crushing weapons, armour and crew, then it seemed to stop the two vessels locked together drifting in space each vessel had fires on several decks.
Blue Star Irregular evacuation DropShips rescued what crew had escaped the Kerensky’s Blues before the collision then rendezvoused with the last couple of JumpShips leaving the system just as the ammunition onboard the two WarShips was reached by fires, engulfing both vessels in a massive fireball destroying both vessels and leaving no wreckage bigger than suitcases, the Blue Star Irregulars first mission under SLDF contract had not gone well but it had hurt the Jade Falcons which was the point of the mission.
Upon returning to the Lyran Alliance they were met by both Khan Phelan Kell and Duke Morgan Kell, commander of the Kell Hounds Mercenaries, in a secret deal any operations conducted by the Blue Star Irregulars would receive full support from the Kell Hounds and Khan Kell’s Clan Wolf (in-Exile). The Blue Star Irregulars also cut all ties to the Lyran Intelligence Corps (LIC) as it was sure they LIC had been directed to give the SLDF troops faulty Intel due to their ties to the Blue Star Irregular’s ties to Katherine’s brother Victor Steiner-Davion, it was well known that Katherine was not pleased at Victor removing all Federated Suns troops from the Lyran Alliance. The other two Federated Suns House Units assigned under SLDF flag had also been contacted and moved within the so-called Arc-Royal Defence Cordon (ARDC) at least there they would receive the support they needed.
The ARDC was an area within the Lyran Alliance stretching from the world of Arch Royal to the Clan Jade Falcon Border, inside this area no unit loyal to Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion operated, instead units loyal to Morgan Kell and the troops of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) operated maintaining the Clan border defence and a knife poised at Katherine’s throat if she over stepped herself. Although not officially Independent the eight worlds inside the ARDC took no order from Tharkad or the Lyran Government.
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Griffin Base
Stalwart Support Base
New Canton, Chaos March
4th February 3062
The Stalwart Support Regiment had been recalled from their bases across New Canton much to the anger of Count Balantine, leader of the world who had informed the Stalwart Support three times that they were moving closer and closer to being charged for breach of contract. Lt. Colonel Wu Tsen Lo, the unit’s executive officer, had tried to smooth the Count by deploying small amounts of the Regiment over the night ensuring the cities and firebases were secure from the frequent raider/pirate attacks, however the Count was getting angrier and angrier at the lack of numbers being provided by the mercenaries. Just as the Count Balantine‘s limousine pulled up in front of the assembled regiment of over eight-hundred men, twenty-four Artillery pieces and twelve Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft. “ATTEN-SHUN!†Wu Tsen Lo screamed the entire regiment snapped to attention.
“Lieutenant-Colonel†Balantine said walking up to Wu, the Count always liked to remind him he was not a Full Colonel and did not command the unit. “I would like to know where your Commander is and why your regiment is here standing about, in parade formation, looking into the sky…†he said turning around following their gaze, in all his anger he had missed the massive Overlord-class DropShip dropping down on the firebase, the DropShip was bigger than any building in the Firebase and blotted out the sun as it landed. “Lieutenant-Colonel, who is that?†The Count asked as the DropShip’s doors began to open.
“The CO, Count Balantine, he has just been to Outreach to see if there are any other Contracts we could for fill. He said he was coming back with the Regiment’s new employer.â€
“…new employer? New employer? You are leaving?â€
“I don’t know Count, we will soon find out, the CO has the details.†Wu said seeing the confusion on the Count’s face Wu barely kept the smirk from his face, he loved it when nobles looked stupid or dumbfounded. Moments later he felt stupid and dumbfounded as a Clan-built Shadow Cat OmniMech with Kathil Uhlans camouflage and a Cameron Star. The Shadow Cat was followed by a one hundred ton Devastator also clad in the same camouflage and Cameron Star, ten more Mechs followed the two Mechs all were clad in the same camouflage all wearing the Cameron Star on their torsos and legs.
“Who are they?†Ignoring the fact he could see the Kathil Uhlans camouflage and the Cameron Star, the only unit that would carry that colours was the SLDF’s Commanding-General’s escort honouring where they had come from and what they now stood for.
“I don’t know but I think I like them, yip, I think I like them a lot.†Wu said as one final Mech walked out, this Mech was a Clan Dire Wolf one hundred tons of the most advanced tech available to MechWarriors “they are also scaring me a lot.†He whispered as five troopers in Elemental Battle Armour leapt from the Dire Wolf’s back, one warrior seemed to have some trouble landing but soon all five troopers were standing in front of the Stalwart Support. Then as one the thirteen Mechs and the five Battle Armour troopers saluted the infantry troopers raising their left arms into the air. “Regiment Salute!†Wu screamed the entire Regiment returned the salute of the BattleMechs. “At ease!†He screamed after a count to ten no point in the infantry standing out in the morning sun at attention longer than necessary. Wu stepped forward pasting the Count who still stood mouth open gawping at the Company of BattleMechs. One of the Elementals stepped forward “welcome to New Canton, I’m Lieutenant-Colonel Wu Tsen Lo Executive Officer of the Stalwart Support Regiment.â€
“I am well aware of who you are Lieutenant-Colonel†the Elemental said, the voice was distorted by the Battle Armour’s external speakers but seemed familiar. “And Colonel, you can make that a full Colonel and shove that rank straight down the Count’s throat†the visor opened to reveal Harry Sanders inside “after I get out of this suit. How the hell the Clanners fight in these things is beyond me!†He said Harry was covered in sweat and perspiration Wu stood there totally shocked, who were these people and why was Harry in Elemental armour? This was going to be a very strange, very wonderful day.
An hour later Harry was out of the Elemental suit and the commander of the Mechs and the Star League Defence Force, Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion, had joined them in the Stalwart Command Bunker along with Count Balantine. “So Colonel how is it you have returned with Elementals, a Davion Duke and a Company of BattleMechs? Most of them Clanner design.†Count Balantine asked completely ignoring Morgan sitting across the table beside Harry. The Federated Commonwealth controlled New Canton before the Marik-Liao Offensive in 3057 which shattered the Sarna March and created the Chaos March now New Canton was in a lawless area of space where the people were prayed upon by pirates, raiders and the forces of the Succession Lords surrounding and people of power had claimed more power.
“The Duke here is no longer a House Davion man he is Commanding-General of the SLDF and that alone demands your respect, Balantine!†Harry said turning on the Count, if Balantine did not like his tone then they would go somewhere else to make this unit but it was happening whether he liked it or not.
“Of course, my apologies†he said to Morgan the SLDF Commanding-General remained quiet “now, Colonel, why are you here with them?†His voice still full of contempt for Morgan and anything else associated with House Davion.
“Well for a start Count, I am here to inform my command that I have sold the Regiment.†Harry said Wu looked sick and felt just as bad, the only reason the Regiment held together was because of Harry Sanders owner and founder of the unit now without that the men would disband either joining a house, another mercenary company or be forced to take early retirement, the independence and home the Stalwart Support had built here would disappear and New Canton would become lawless once more. All the blood they had spilled here was for nothing, Wu felt his anger begin to rise he needed to know why this was happening?
“You’ve sold the unit? So we’re out of a job?â€
“Your welcome to join my militia Lieutenant-Colonel, perhaps we could make that a full Colonel.â€
“He’s already a Full Colonel.†Harry corrected Balantine, “I cut the orders the day I agreed to end the independence of the Stalwart Support. Wu, the reason the Commanding-General is here is because he bought the unit, the equipment and all our contracts. I have accepted a new post, and rank, with the SLDF and we are here to offer the entire unit contracts and promotions.â€
“Contracts and Promotions for the SLDF? Why would the SLDF need an infantry regiment?†Wu asked the Count looked helpless sitting there are there was a whirlwind of conversation around him. He was suddenly realising that all his contract renewal postponing with Harry Sanders had caused this and the services of the only true peacekeeping force on New Canton.
“We don’t need an infantry regiment, we need a Battle Armour Corps. And I want the Stalwart Support to accept SLDF contracts then begin training in Battle Armour operation before operations begin towards the end of the year. Now Lieutenant-General Sanders has accepted command of the First Battle Armour Corps, so I have a commander.†Wu Tsen Lo leaned over the table and slapped Harry on the shoulder offering his congratulations to his commander and friend. “On the DropShip I have over two hundred Battle Armour Suits of various Inner Sphere designs, tomorrow a JumpShip will arrive at a pirate point and drop off another three DropShips each carrying an additional eight hundred suits. Now all I need is troops and a training ground, which is why we have come here to New Canton. The Stalwart Support seem to be an excellent training ground for troopers and I would like to make New Canton as a permanent SLDF Training and Command Base, which is where you Count Balantine come into the picture.†Morgan said outlining his Plan.
“Me?†The Count said surprised, he had not expected to be involved in this at all he now looked at Morgan feeling subservient, it was just like when House Davion moved in following the Fourth Succession War but this time he seemed to have better cards, only time would tell.
“Yes, you control a large portion of this world and General Sanders has said some interesting things about you and this world.†The Count turned to Sanders who remained completely passive to Balantine’s stare, what exactly had Sanders said about him? How many of the Count’s skeletons had he seen?
“General?†Balantine said, his voice but a whisper wondering what exactly Harry had said about him. “I will of course be able to give you some pointers in New Canton’s political landscape.â€
“And an area for training and a base for major deployments, this base is a nice start Count†Harry said Balantine glared at Harry.
“You want Griffin Base?†He asked not surprised it was the best equipped and defended base on the entire planet. Not quite a Star League Castle Brian but still a formidable position with a capability of garrisoning over a thousand men and a Battalion of BattleMechs here if need be. “I’m sure we could work out something.†Balantine said smiling, having a permanent SLDF force on planet would change things on New Canton and Balantine’s personnel plans, he’d have to use the SLDF to work for him.
“Well then onto the troops and a new job, Colonel, let’s go see our men†Harry said the two Stalwart Soldiers moved out of the room leaving the Commanding-General and the count to talk alone. Over the next eighteen hours almost every single Stalwart Soldier signed up to the SLDF’s new First Battle Armour Corps those who didn’t take the job got generous pay-offs from their contracts or became administrators of Griffin Base for the SLDF keeping the Stalwart family almost totally intact. They then began making room on the base for the SLDF’s new equipment and personnel that the DropShip had brought. The word that more equipment was on its way had given then entire base a buzz, word that everyone was in line for promotions had gotten around and that was helping things a lot.
During their time on New Canton however the Commanding-General and his staff heard about the trouble the Blue Star Irregulars had faced on the Clan border while under SLDF contract. Although Morgan immediately sent his condolences to the Blue Star Irregulars, he would have liked to head to the Clan Borders straight away but the St Ives troubles were more pressing at the moment.
Lost City, Nowhere
Draconis Combine/Periphery Border
Pesht Military District
18th February 3062
En Route from the Clan Homeworlds for the last four and a half months, and still looking at another two months journey until their destination Clan Nova Cat’s Kappa Provisional Galaxy under the command of Galaxy Commander Gwen Winters was preparing to act upon orders laid down by Khan Santin West before he left the Homeworlds.
The orders stated that any Nova Cat unit travelling in the deep would strike out at targets of opportunity between Clan Space and the Nova Cat’s Den, the Khan had stated that the Nova Cat’s new home was secure now it was time for the Nova Cat’s enemies to feel its wrath.
The first such target was the world of Nowhere, just inside the Draconis Combine, the unit honoured for this was Kappa Provisional Galaxy. Because it was an Inner Sphere realm they were attacking an because of the recent assaults against the Smoke Jaguars Kappa has repainted its Mechs for this battle using every single type of standard camouflage known to the Nova Cats there was also several Inner Sphere camouflages, such as the Davion Guards Parade Camo and the Wolf Dragoons Black-and-Red, none of the Mechs displayed the Nova Cat or any Clan insignia, other than the insignia of the destroyed Clans the Smoke Jaguars, the Mongoose, the Widowmaker, the Burrock and the Not-named Clan were all represented, mostly on the Nova Cat Elementals or on the backs of the Mechs.
Officially, to the rest of the Inner Sphere and Clans, they would not receive the recognition for the battle but inside the Nova Cats victory would assure the warriors of Kappa Galaxy a great honour. As it was an Inner Sphere world that was the target there would be no bidding for battle the whole Kappa Provisional Galaxy would partake in the battle. In the early hours of the 18th February 3062 Kappa Provisional Galaxy landed on plains north of the capital and marched on the capital, their goal to annihilate the defenders and take whatever supplies/bondsmen they were able to. Some warriors had complained that they were acting like dezgra pirates or mercenaries Galaxy Commander had met each in a Circle of Equals and so far this battle had claimed the lives of two Kappa MechWarriors and one Elemental and that was before a single shot had been fired.
The defenders of Nowhere consisted of the Fifth Ghost Regiment of the DCMS supported by some armour, infantry and minimal aerospace support. In less than ten minutes the Nova Cat aerospace fighters had driven the Fifth Ghost fighters from the air and herded the DCMS unit into a controllable area, their only retreat was through the capital city. To the credit of the Fifth Ghost they remained in their dug in positions firing at the Nova Cats with what limited long range armaments they had. In an effort to flush out the Fifth Ghost from their positions the warriors of Kappa Galaxy charged the dug in positions costing the Clan force just under three Trinaries, a quarter of their strength. In close quarters the Fifth Ghost’s weapons were far more effective costing the Nova Cats more, the Fifth broke relatively quickly though as Galaxy Commander Gwen Winters herself dispatched the Fifth’s commander’s Avatar with the assistance of her fellow Elementals. The DCMS Ghost regiment broke and began retreating towards the city looking for cover inside the built up area, the Nova Cat’s long range weapons turned on the retreating DCMS forces cutting them down as the weapons cut through the lightly armoured backs of the enemy.
Entering the city the Nova Cat warriors of Kappa Galaxy first destroyed the B-class HPG on Nowhere cutting the planets interstellar communications, the ComGuard Level I (a reinforced lance with six units instead of the standard four) defending the base were little threat and were dispatched quickly, the local ComGuard techs put up no resistance and were left unharmed while the Nova Cat Elementals destroyed all the equipment and then the building with satchel charges. Without communications the planet was at the mercy of the Nova Cats, instead of terrorising the planet as the population expected the Nova Cats withdrew from the city and salvaged every piece of military hardware they could from the battlefield. They then went to the Fifth’s base and took over a battalion’s worth of spare parts and several scientists/engineers as bondsmen. Two ancient Vulture-class Infantry DropShips and a Fortress-class DropShip were also made flyable and taken by the Nova Cat warriors as Isorla, then sixteen hours after their arrival the Nova Cats left Nowhere heading for the Nova Cat’s Den.
It wouldn’t be until the 21st March that Luthien heard of the trouble on Nowhere or the destruction of the Fifth Ghost Regiment, and even then it was only because ComStar checked on their HPG and personnel. The DCMS chalked it up to a pirate attack however the ComGuards thought there could be a larger problem and began checking all nearby systems for similar troubles, when none was found the Explorer Corps was directed to watch the nearby area for the foreseeable future. A ROM Contingent was also added to Columbus Base personnel over and above the standard complement, this personnel were tasked with specifically watching the surrounding area for unknown forces and possible Clan incursions.
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Brotherhood of Randis Command
Hope City
Randis, Periphery
21st February 3062
Grand Knight Lucas Beckett looked across the table at Brother Galahad Frews, the former leader of the Brotherhood of Randis, defenders of the world and a beacon of hope in the Periphery. The world of Randis was situated roughly five or six jumps from the Federated Suns, four jumps from the Taurian Concordat, eight jumps from the Pirate Haven Star Cluster home to one of the worst pirates in the entire periphery, and four jumps from the Tortuga Dominions another traditional hive of scum and villainy although recently they had not been causing Randis or any world in the area much problems, Lucas had been tempted to investigate however other things had gotten in the way and so the Tortuga Fusiliers were spared the Brotherhood‘s wrath for now.
“We don’t know who they are?†Galahad asked quietly, he was older than Lucas by almost twenty years and had lead the Brotherhood for twenty-three years before the arrival of Lucas Beckett and another warrior from the ashes of Clan Smoke Jaguar. Lucas had impressed the Brotherhood and been able to gain control of the Battalion and ruler ship over Randis but in the last two years Lucas had kept Galahad in the loop, the news he was passing on now was big news. Sixteen hours ago the early warning towers on the nearby mountains had detected ten inbound DropShips, only a major nation or mercenary force could field that type of force in this area, finally someone had taken notice of Randis.
“We have no idea who is behind the force. Although six hours ago we received a communication signal from one of the merchant JumpShips at the Zenith Point they said there were three JumpShip at the Jump Point in close formation and that the largest was an Odyssey-class vessel.†Lucas said quietly “the Odyssey is a clan class of vessel, they could be coming for the small population of former Smoke Jaguars that have settle here, they could be coming here for me. I could…†His voice trailed off.
“You could what? Give up to them and hope your former brethren leave us be, unlikely brother, although your fellow brothers would be touched by the sentiment. The Clans like stand-up fights don’t they?â€
“They do, as do the Brotherhood. Unfortunately their weapons would tare us apart, even with the Star League-era tech we have and the OmniMechs Carson and I brought with us from the Clans we cannot hope to match them for firepower.†He said, the unit had two former Smoke Jaguar OmniMechs, Lucas’s Kingfisher and Carson’s Warhawk, both were assault OmniMechs and in good repair but against an entire unit of Clan Mechs they would be picked apart in a very short time.
“No we cannot but we know the terrain far better, how many troops do you think they could have?†Galahad asked taking charge of the discussion, it had been a while but it felt real good.
“Depends on the DropShips they have, they look small and fast from the sensor images we have been able to gather so I would say they could all be Broadswords or Carriers. That would give them an entire Cluster of OmniMechs or BattleMechs and an entire Star of Fighters. Although the Carrier could be a Titan then it would be entire Trinary of fighters.†Lucas said thinking of the worst case scenario, Galahad wished he hadn’t.
“Right so we challenge them to meet us in Trimmer’s Valley, it’s closed in and their weapons will have the same limitations as ours.â€
“It depends what Clan we are facing some will attack without challenge they see us as Dezgra, the dishonoured, we are worse than Inner Sphere warriors.â€
“We will just hope to meet an enlightened Clansmen then, because if they attack in full force with full aerospace support we are dead men. Send the signal to the incoming force then we will go see the men and prepare them for some heavy fighting.†Galahad noticed Lucas was still unsure “Lucas, we can survive this, anywhere else I’d say we were dead but we can defeat them on home soil.†Lucas pressed down the transmit button of the long range communications system built into the situation table.
“Incoming vessels, this is Grand Knight Lucas Becket, I am commander of the Brotherhood of Randis the defenders of this world and the defenders of any injustice raked upon them by the harshness of space. We welcome you to Randis however if you plan hostilities we will resist you with our entire Battalion of BattleMechs. If you prefer a stand up battle I am transmitting a location that would be suitable now.†He said pressing another control “we off this area for a Trial to limit the damage done to the people of Randis by any possible conflict that my arise between our peoples.†The lead target vessel replied exactly six minutes later, the incoming DropShips were requesting clearance to land at the capital’s spaceport and they were not interested in hostilities. Following a brief discussion Lucas transmitted clearance but warned them the entire Brotherhood would be waiting for them and trouble would be met with a fight.
Hope City, Spaceport
Randis, Periphery
24th February 3062
Three days later the incoming force arrived in near orbit, instead of all nine DropShips landing at the same spaceport however they landed three at each of the planets three spaceports with one DropShip, the Carrier, orbiting over the capital with an entire star of aerospace fighters.
The Brotherhood of Randis began moving to cover all three Spaceports however by the time they were on the outskirts of the capital the first three DropShips were down and enemy troops were on the ground. Grand Knight Lucas Becket tried to martial his troops but the loose Brotherhood were beginning to scatter and were all receiving communications from all over the planet. “Hold your fire unless they attack†Lucas said into the Kingfisher’s comm. grid. “Brother Carson, take two lances to Randis City, same orders against these people.â€
“Aff†the clan warrior said his Warhawk leading away seven more Mechs.
“Brother Galahad take your lances to Camelot City, same orders.â€
“Understood Grand Knight, people move out.†Galahad said moving out with his group of eight warriors. That left fourteen warriors and Lucas to defend Hope City, ahead of them were three Broadsword-class DropShips, their doors still sealed. Walking forward Lucas addressed the Clan vessels using his Mech’s loud speaker system.
“Clan vessels this is Grand Knight Lucas Becket, commander of the Brotherhood of Randis. Identify yourselves and your reason for being here.†The doors opened on all three DropShips simultaneously, several of the Brotherhood Mechs moved from side to side worried about the firepower the DropShips could be about to release.
Instead of Mechs leaving the DropShips however it was Elementals, Battle Armour! Something no-one was expecting and something Broadswords could not normally carry any type of Battle Armour and the Brotherhood had never encountered Battle Armour before, this could be bad. Next to exit the Broadsword was a pair of Svantovit Infantry Fighting Hovertanks then a pair of Ares Medium Tanks again a Broadsword didn’t normally carry. Instead of being more worried however Lucas was feeling more confident, vehicles were weaker than Mechs and Battle Armour was less mobile. Looking out over the battlefield he saw thirty Elementals and twelve vehicles, of which most were light or medium designs, perhaps they would be able to resist this and the other forces. “I am Lucas Beckett, identify yourself or be prepared to meet resistance.†Lucas said again unfortunately the DropShips were not finished offloading their cargo, from each DropShip a single OmniMech stepped down, on either side stood a Dire Wolf and a Warhawk while in the middle stood a design Lucas had never seen before. It was lighter than the other two but looked well armoured and each arm was heavily laden with weapons, the Mech reminded Lucas of the Night Gyr fielded by the Jade Falcons.
These three Mechs would be the biggest threat and Lucas labelled them as Primary targets and transmitted the data to the other Brothers, if they came to blows the Brotherhood would drop usual fighting rules and combine fire on the three Clan Mechs brining down the biggest targets first. “I am Lucas Becket…†He began again only to be interrupted by another voice.
“By the Great Father we heard you the first and the second time, what do you think we are deaf? Quineg? Becket is a Bloodname and that is a Clan Mech, you are a Clan warrior?†The mystery voice asked the enemy force remained standing in position, Lucas’s Mech detected targeting sweeps from all the Battle Armour, Vehicles and Mechs they were more than ready for a fight. Lucas searched his memory trying to place the accent, although the Clans were nearly devoid of accent speaking nearly perfect English some Clans had slight variations that could only be noticed if you looked carefully. During his time with the Clans Lucas had begun to write a paper on just that, but since leaving the Clans he had stopped no longer seeing a point.
“Neg, I do not think you are deaf, but that was quite an entrance. I was worried you might have missed my welcome. I was Clan, this Mech served me in the Clans and serves me now. I am no longer Clan.†Lucas said to the point, there was no point in lying to the Clansmen, to do so would give them a reason to fire. “Who are you?â€
“You were Clan? You are Dezgra? Which Clan did you serve? Why did you leave?†The voice asked continuing on his line of questioning, if the Clans though Lucas was dezgra they would destroy everything in sight.
“I am no longer Clan. I do not consider myself or the warrior that I serve with to be dezgra. I served the Cloud Cobras originally but was captured by the Smoke Jaguars and served them as a Star Commander. I left because my Clan was destroyed. Now I must ask who are you? Without an answer I must consider this to be an invasion.â€
“What do you and your companions do?†The voice asked again refusing to identify themselves “this world does not appear on our records as an inhabited world but all three cities appear well developed and in good repair, is this a secret Succession Lord world? Or an ancient forgotten Star League world?†The voice sounded more and more inquisitive, Lucas started to wonder if it was a Goliath Scorpion Warrior, one of those drugged up Seekers who searched for forgotten relics of the Star League.
“I do not know the history of this world well. All that I know is that is was founded after the fall of the Star League as a pirate world. As the centuries passed the Brotherhood of Randis was formed to defend this world and the surrounding Periphery from any bandit force and improve the way of life for all citizens of the Periphery.â€
“We also wish to improve the area around our home†the warrior said quietly Lucas’s mind was racing, there were no Clan occupied planets in this region that he knew about. Could this be members of the Dark Caste or maybe rumoured remnants of the Annihilated Not-named Clan? If they were either it was his duty to destroy them, Lucas primed his weapons.
“You interest us Brotherhood. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Star Colonel Canin Rosse.†The MechWarrior said, the unknown type of Mech stepping forward slightly. Lucas took his fingers off the firing triggers Rosse was a Nova Cat Bloodname and most Dark Caste warriors dropped any Bloodname they held when they became Dark Caste. Technically Lucas was a member of the Dark Caste but he did not consider himself to be dishonourable or a bandit.
“A Star Colonel? Of what Clan, and how can you claim to have territories in this area? The Homeworlds are far from here.â€
“I am Star Colonel Canin Rosse, Commander of the Watch Cluster of Clan Nova Cat. I claim this planet is near my home because we have occupied the area surrounding the world of Tortuga Prime, it has become the Nova Cat’s Den, the new Homeworlds for our Clan.†Lucas’s mind was spinning, the Nova Cats had occupied the Tortuga Dominions and the area surrounding it? He thought Randis was far from the Clan threat but in fact they had followed him into this area and now were poised for another invasion.
“You plan to strike at Terra from here?â€
“Neg, we plan to live here, improve the worlds we occupy and build a home. For now nothing less or more.â€
“But you still maintain links to the Homeworlds? Quiaff?â€
“Aff, we are Clan.†Canin answered, the Nova Cat warrior took that particularly bad for someone who had just admitted they were moving into a new home away from the other Clans.
“So what do you want with our little insignificant world?â€
“We are building relations with forces around us, some we deal with, some we open negotiations. We dealt with the Tortuga Fusiliers but we are talking to you.â€
“With respect, Star Colonel, we will call you†Lucas said using a saying he had picked up from the people of Randis “if we need or want to talk to you we will send out word, I assume you will not be difficult to find?â€
“Come to Tortuga and we will be waiting†Canin said there was no point in Canin’s mind of pursuing the matter and he did not have the forces to prosecute the Nova Cat case, he was sure they would be back to Randis but not today. The Nova Cats packed up into their DropShips and began the long burn back to their JumpShips.
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Gravity Deck Executive Lounge/Bar
Federated-Boeing Reserve Shipyard Omega
Galax, Crucis March, Federated Suns
1st March 3062
On their way back to New Avalon Victor Steiner-Davion had directed the crew of the FSS Alexander Davion to the system of Galax, current home to the Davion Heavy Guards and to the Federated Suns largest and oldest Shipyards. As the WarShip had burned to the shipyards the two DropShips with nearly all the personnel from the WarShip and Victor’s escort had left heading for Galax itself, officially they were going to spend a couple of days exercising with the Heavy Guards while the Alexander Davion received some slight overhaul work.
The real reason was that Victor wanted as little people around to witness Victor travel to the most outer shipyard in the entire Galax Shipyards. Approaching the shipyard had brought over a dozen fighters and several assault DropShips to warn them off until the shuttle was identified and even now the entire facility was crewed by less than six hundred personnel, in a facility that could hold over three thousand.
Looking out the windows Victor looked at the Federated Suns big secret and wished he had been here when it had been gifted to them by the Nova Cats. If he had been here then he could have sneaked it to Hadrian’s Command and hidden it there for the next hundred years, now it was here and there was little he could do but use it or he’d feel like an idiot when the Federated Suns went to war with nothing bigger than the Avalon-class an impressive design in its own right but weak compared to other designs fielded by the Clans and on the design table of the other Succession Lords. Looking at the vessel Victor realised the Federated Suns would have one vessel bigger than the vessel in front of him but it would not be ready for nearly a decade, the Pegasus was currently hidden at Hadrian’s Command under refit the Davion-class refits had taken precedence because they could be completed quickly, Pegasus would be completed now that work was being spread around more evenly.
Admiral Andrea Petain entered the Lounge with a team of designers and engineers, over the next several hours they showed Victor what they wanted to do to the vessel. At the end of the process the FSS Thunderchild would be transformed into a completely new type of WarShip and a completely different vessel. Victor liked that idea, it would no longer be a Varnay-class vessel, there would be nothing for them to latch onto and use against his family, searching Victor found the perfect thing that would complement these changes. As the engineers and designers were finalising details Victor named the class as the First Prince-class Battleship because its power would instil the Federated Suns Navy with the strength of their First Prince and that the vessel would be named the FSS Hanse Davion, named after his father, originally an Avalon-class Cruiser had been slated to bear his father’s name but this vessel would be far more appropriate for his father and prove the Davion family could always supplement the Varnay family and beat them even their ancient legacies. Victor also confirmed Andrea Petain’s promotion to Fleet Admiral, the Federated Suns now had over a dozen WarShips, it was time the Admiralty received a commander of sufficient rank for the job.
Following the meeting Victor had returned to viewing the Hanse Davion, every time he viewed the vessel he noticed something new. As he watched the vessel the doors opened, Victor knew it could be only one person. “Welcome back to the Federated Suns Field Marshal†Victor said turning to look at the newcomer, Arden Sortek, the Field Marshal immediately saluted Victor, despite the fact they had known each other since almost the day Victor was born Arden still recognised him as the First Prince of the Federated Suns and his Commander-in-chief first and foremost a friend and fellow warrior a distant second. Victor returned his friends crisp salute with his own equally crisp salute before enveloping Arden in a hug. Arden had been one of Victor’s father’s closest friends and even though Arden was now well into his sixties Victor considered him a friend also, he was definitely a man you‘d want at your side when trouble was arise.
“Thank you, sire. I have been back for a while, on extended leave by your order. Why?†Arden asked Victor couldn’t help but smile “sire, I might be getting old but I am not ready for retirement yet.†Arden said defensively.
“Good, because I have a job for you.†Victor said immediately “Field Marshal you were once Field Marshal for the entire Crucis March, how would you like to be again?†Arden asked, he had been removed from that position just before the formation of the Star League to become the Federated Suns personnel representative on the Star League Advisory Council, a decision that had been made by Victor himself, Victor had wanted someone he trusted at the Star League and someone he knew would do their best by the Federated Suns.
“I thought that twit Gallagher was in charge.†Arden said it wasn’t anger just disgust at his replacement’s abilities. Simon Gallagher was a former Lyran High Command officer and did not know one thing about the Federated Suns way of doing things. Victor had removed him, refused to give him another post and suggested he return to the Lyran Alliance, he had not been seen since.
“My mistake and I removed him as soon as I returned from the Clan War. I need you back Arden, we all need you back.†Victor said quietly.
“You don’t have to lay it on that thick, you had me when I landed†he said with a chuckle.
“It’s good to have you back old friend.†Victor said shaking Arden’s hand and grabbing shoulder.
“Less of the old.†Arden said looking out the windows “She’s beauty isn’t she? Surprising the Clanners just gave us her.†Victor shot him a glance only active members of the High Command and the First Davion Guards escorting the Nova Cats were supposed to know about that. “I’ve been around too long for me to miss that, oh look a new Battleship that just popped out of the sky right. Although the boat you sailed in on was a surprise.†He said thinking back to the surprise he had when the Alexander Davion and her sister ships had appeared.
“Ah well, glad to know we still have some surprises.†Victor said quietly.
“I hear you have quite a beauty with you as well, Victor.â€
“You’re not going to tell me to be careful as well are you? Morgan was the first at that…†He started but Arden raised a hand silencing Victor. To any other man, well maybe not Morgan, but to most men Victor would have taken offence an officer trying to tell the First Prince of the Federated Suns to, for lack of a better term, shut-up. Instead he listened to Arden for advice it could never hurt.
“You love her?†Victor looked into space then back at Arden and nodded silently “then don’t let her go not for anyone.†Arden said looking away back at the Hanse Davion.
“How’s Cadent and the kids?†Victor asked quietly.
“She’s happy to be back on New Avalon and the ‘kids’ as you put it are all doing fine but you should know better than me, they are all in your command at some level.†All six of Arden’s children had joined the AFFS or Federated Suns Government while Arden’s extended family also served the Federated Suns on some level his second-cousin Field Marshal Bishop now commanded the entire Davion Royal Brigade of Guards since Jackson Davion‘s elevation to the rank of Marshal of Armies. “I think I like the name.†Arden said finally quietly in silent reverence to his old friend, Victor’s father, “certainly is a good name.†He said the two men stood there looking at the vessel under renovation in the shipyard, soon the Hanse Davion would serve the Federated Suns Navy just as the man it was named after would have wanted.
Following the meeting Arden returned to New Avalon while Victor headed directly to Galax itself and joined the Tenth Lyran Guards, the Davion Heavy Guards and Danai Centrella for some ground manoeuvres and some rest and relaxation after all the travel of late it was nice to be back in his Dire Wolf Prometheus and with the warriors he had fought with during the Clan War. Although when he returned from the Clan Homeworlds Victor had wanted peace now he began to wonder, he was a warrior and warriors fought wars. The DMI and MIIO had found out several locations of possible secret Taurian Shipyards, perhaps it was time House Davion went looking for some trouble. But first Victor had another idea, the Federated Suns needed to be secure from attack from the mystery WarShip that was plaguing the realm and Victor had an idea to end this threat once and for all.
Various Locations/City-states
Novo Franklin, Franklin Fiefdoms
Periphery
3rd March 3062
When Khan Santin West had deployed the Watch Cluster and Tau Galaxy it had not been together nor had it been at the same target. While the Watch would have a possible friendly encounter on the world of Randis with the Brotherhood who resided there Tau Galaxy had been sent on a mission of pure military value and orders. Outside the Federated Suns/Outworlds Alliance borders there were two tiny nations of planets who fought their own wars and were the prey of pirate attack/bases to be used by nations inserting agents into nations. The first target would be the Franklin Fiefdoms a single planetary system several light-years from the Federated Suns and the Outworlds Alliance the world was made up of a group of rival city-states. The mission was simple destroy all defenders/pirate forces discovered in the system then give the population of the planets a choice to return to the Nova Cat’s Den and help build the Nova Cat nation or live and possibly die on these worlds.
From orbit around Novo Franklin, the first targeted world, the commanders of Tau Galaxies four Clusters and Galaxy Commander Ajax Drummond stood aboard the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Remembrance, the WarShip had been temporally attached to the Galaxy for additional transport and support if necessary however Ajax saw no need for the later mission, no-one used WarShips in this area of space mainly because there was nothing here to defend or attack. As far as Novo Franklin was concerned there were seven cities on the planets surface each in different states of advancement and repair, or disrepair, Ajax had already decided on the forces that would be used to take this tiny world.
“From each of our forces we will select a force amount suitable to gain honour and give the defenders an adequate chance of defending themselves. Vision Keshik will take One Heavy Star of OmniMechs from the three available and attack the Fiefdom of Galus†he said, the other warriors looked quite happy with his forces but not the target, Galus was the most powerful target fielding an entire company of BattleMechs and would prove to be the best place for honour to be won. “Star Colonel Bavros your forces for use against the Harn Fiefdom?†Ajax asked the commander of the Galaxies newest Cluster, the Second New Barcella Guards.
“One Star of mixed forces. My OmniMech, one Black Hawk, three points of Elementals and two Hachiman Fire Support Tanks.†He said the others nodded impressed that he would attack with such a force considering the Second were such a new unit.
“Star Colonel Bel, your forces from the Twelfth Nova Cat Regulars?â€
“The Celt Fiefdom is barely a force to be bothered with†the young woman said quietly “the have the equivalent to a single Star of BattleMechs available so I will match their force and offer their warriors honour duelsâ€
“Against your OmniMechs that is hardly a challenge†Ajax said, he did not want his people getting killed on this insignificant world but he at least wanted them to show some respect for those they would fight.
“We will not use OmniMechs, we will pilot standard BattleMech designs and each Mech will be one weight class lower than its expected opponent.†That brought with it some significant nods from the other commanders and from Ajax. Using standard BattleMechs took away the ability to custom their Mechs for the battle and using a lighter force gave the technological weaker enemy a chance of causing some damage with their limited weapons.
“Better.†Ajax said Bel blushed slightly having to be told what was a decent force and what was not had not been part of the plan. “Star Colonel Otis your forces?†Ajax continued onto the warrior commanding the One Hundredth Striker Cluster, Khan Santin West’s old command.
“New Saar Fiefdom fields a Lance of Mechs and some light vehicles, I will take a single Elemental Star into combat. The Elementals will be selected randomly from the three Trinaries I have available.†A purely Battle Armour vs. Mech fight would certainly give the Nova Cat warriors a harder time, the Battle Armour’s weapons were limited to short range only.
“And finally Star Colonel Jullamon Lossey?†He said announcing the commander of the 274th Battle Cluster, of all the assembled Star Colonels she was most likely to challenge for command of Tau Galaxy having previously served as part of Delta Galaxy.
“Two OmniMechs, my own and one other warrior of my choice.†She said the Trellis Fiefdom only fielded six Mechs on a good day and even then the two Nova Cat OmniMechs could probably handle them without problem.
“Good well bargained and done. Have your forces prepared for an immediate drop. Good Hunting!†Ajax said then in unison they chanted as one ‘Seyla’ there was a moment of silence then they broke up and prepared for their assignments.
Four hours later the five Nova Cat attack groups dropped near their targets and began issuing challenges, there was no attempt to hide who they were or what their objectives were. The fighting was fast and brutal, of the defenders not a single enemy Mech, Vehicle or infantry trooper that faced the Nova Cats was still alive, none had survived or surrendered to the Clansmen. The various Warlords of the cities were warning the Nova Cats they would feel their wrath however the Nova Cats were not scared and salvage teams began dropping, standing orders was for all technology to be salvaged where possible. Ajax Drummond commanded the remaining Nova Cats, possibly the highest ranking command in the entire Nova Cat Touman, casualties had been light but heavier than Ajax had predicted. The battle had cost the Nova Cats five Elementals, one Hachiman Fire Support Tanks and Star Colonel Jullamon Lossey, killed when an defending Atlas fired its large bore autocannon at her Mech’s cockpit at point blank range. Even with the loss the remaining Nova Cats still numbered a Galaxy Commander, three Star Colonels, two Star Commanders and nearly another forty Nova Cat warriors.
The commanders of Tau Galaxy were gathered together inside one of the Nova Cat’s grounded DropShips while they waited to work out their next move, the cities although undefended by Mech forces were still high walled and none were likely to accept the Nova Cats with open arms. Instead Ajax had decided the only way to break the people was to execute all leaders in all five cities and if necessary hold the populations under martial law conditions, he knew that meant the Nova Cats could take ever mounting losses but he needed to talk to the people and the only way he could do that was if the warlords that ran the city were out of the way and the population was controlled. “Galus is our biggest target and has the largest population, we have to bring the leader of this city under control and eliminate his command before we can begin moving against the others. If we eliminate him then the other cities may see that there is little point to resist and surrender†he noticed some sceptical looks from the other warriors “it is a long shot but our only option. Star Colonel Bavros have the Second New Barcella Guards land and provide security here. Once they have arrived to protect our DropShips we will go into the city and make sure everyone understands we mean business.â€
“What are the rules of engagement?†Star Colonel Otis asked.
“If attacked we return fire with maximum force.†Ajax said, although if asked he would say he was a Warden member of the Clans, wishing for the Clans and the Inner Sphere to live and work together, if any of his warriors were attacked he expected them to return fire with deadly force. Although they had eliminated most of the worlds defenders some scattered infantry forces and unaccounted for vehicles or light Mechs could still cause a lot of damage if the Nova Cats were not willing to destroy all opponents without reservation.
Warlord of Galus ‘Throne’ Room
Novo Franklin, Fiefdom of Galus
Franklin Fiefdoms, Periphery
3rd March 3062
The Warlord of Galus, Robert Galus, paced his throne room angrily the BattleMech forces that were so prized by the people and by his military leaders had failed totally and now all his city had remaining was a couple of hundred conscripted infantry forces and a pair of Goblin Infantry Fighting Vehicles he had scrounged from a down-on-their-luck mercenary force that visited a few months back, they were effectively completely defenceless against the Clan force. “I thought it was guaranteed that no Clan force would ever come into this region! You won that victory years back that had them stuck where they were! Why are they here now and why have your forces not acted?!†He screamed at the white robed individual, on his left shoulder was a sword set downwards against a black rectangle.
“It was not my organisation that won that victory, it was ComStar.â€
“You are ComStar!â€
“We were ComStar.†The white robed individual said agreeing with him “we are the True ComStar and now you can see that the lies the Heretic ComStar have been telling are just that lies†he said calmly.
“Who cares if you are the True ComStar or the Heretic ComStar? Who cares about truths or lies? We have a Clan force on this planet! They will kill us all!â€
“Perhaps, and perhaps not.†The white robed figure said “unfortunately I believe it is time for us to part ways.â€
“What do you mean part ways? You have a duty to defend this city, I guaranteed you a place here, and your training camps are well underway. If it were not for me you would not be in control of Terra. I want what was promised to me!â€
“Of course, it was wrong of us to withhold your reward for so long.†The robed figure said stepping forward raising his arm, instead of a data-pad or a weapon however only a hand appeared from the robe.
“What is this?†Galus asked even more angry now, the Word of Blake, or True ComStar as they called themselves, always played these little games. Suddenly across the room both guards at the main entrance were shot dead with a high powered rifle, a figure in a strange stealth cloak lowered himself to the ground. The cloak was constantly changing to match the surrounding area making them hard to see and distinguish from the background, how long had they been on the roof?
The other robed figure’s hand still outside the cloak split open between the second and third fingers, there was no blood, instead a blade moved out several centimetres and locked into place. “What are you?†Galus asked looking at the man his mind racing as the robed figure lashed out and the blade penetrated Galus’ chest.
“The future†the robed man said as Galus died on the blade the last thing Galus saw was the man‘s deep red eyes as he slid off the blade crumpling to the floor in a bloody heap.
“Have our forces withdraw to the DropShips, it is time we left.†He said to the sniper in the mimic cloak.
“And our new recruits?â€
“Release them to the population, it will provide plenty of a distraction and keep these Clanners occupied while we leave.†He said then both Word of Blake men left the throne room. On the far side of the city over one hundred men and women were released from holding pens, all had been cybernetically enhanced with various weapons and devices, some had been driven insane by the implants and as soon as they left their pens they immediately grabbed the nearest weapons then charged into the city attacking anything that moved including each other. At a nearby airfield three Triumph-class DropShips began to lift off, the vessels were registered as civilian vessels but combined they could transport an entire division of ground troops that was now was attempting to escape.
At the city gates the Nova Cats were approaching the city, sitting inside his newly repaired Huntsman’s cockpit Ajax Drummond watched as twenty-five Elementals leapt the cities outer walls and prepared to detonate the main gates, at the same time the orbiting WarShip informed him that its fighters had interdicted an enemy JumpShip which had entered the system near the planet. The JumpShip crew had detonated the vessel instead of being captured by the Nova Cat Elementals and OmniFighters. “Understood, Star Commodore, it is likely they were attempting to retrieve a DropShip. Continue to scan for incoming DropShips. As soon as you detect them fire for effect, these stavag cowards obviously have no will to fight us or even attempt to become our bondsmen.â€
“Aye, Galaxy Commander†the Remembrance’s commander said just as the Elementals detonated the main gates, Ajax’s ad-hoc command moved into the city. There was widespread panic inside the city with armed groups attacking each other, the Nova Cats were receiving little attention.
“Something is wrong.†Ajax murmured “all forces there is something going on here that we have either started or walked straight into. Anyone who targets us or unarmed civilians is a target, we are here for civilian defence and for territorial capture. Go to work†he said into the comm. The Nova Cats began going to work targeting the armed forces with BattleMech class weapons was heavy overkill, but it was all they had.
The three Triumphs, began heading across the city trying to escape Ajax keyed his communications to the WarShip however the Remembrance’s gunners were far ahead of him. There was a thunderous explosion as the Remembrance’s weapons entered the atmosphere. Anti-WarShip Capital Missiles and heavy Naval Autocannons impacted all across the first Triumph shattering the DropShip into a thousand little pieces in a single volley some of the rounds went straight through the wreckage and slammed into the city causing massive damage to the surrounding city. The second volley followed the same routine with the Triumph destroyed but massive parts of the city set ablaze by the extra weapons fire killing dozens. The third volley was a complete catastrophe the missiles struck the DropShip heavily damaging the vessel but the autocannon fire completely missed the vessel eighteen autocannons tore into the city killing thousands of innocents combined with the other missed weapons fire and the crash of the damaged DropShip into the city they destroyed a good third of the city. Ajax looked out of his Mech’s cockpit and shook his head this had not been part of the plan, the gunners should have waited until the DropShips were away from the city before firing, then again he had said ‘fire for effect‘ and they had done exactly that, it was done now nothing he could do about it except move on.
At the city gates Ajax felt the explosions and the impacts of the WarShip guns, he felt sick, the mission had not called for his troops to target civilians. Now the Nova Cats had followed the course the Smoke Jaguars had taken and WarShip weapons had struck the city killing civilians, the Smoke Jaguars had been annihilated after targeting civilians with orbital weapons fire Ajax hoped the Nova Cats did not follow the same course, it had been a mistake the Nova Cat‘s had not meant for it to happen unlike the Smoke Jaguars who deliberately targeted civilians, then again the location of the world mattered as well, when the Nova Cats were done there would be no-one living here and no Succession Lord claimed this territory. Ajax acted quickly calling down all remaining ground troops to bring order to the planet and offer humanitarian aid to the planet’s shell-shocked population.
Deep inside the Fiefdom of Galus Louise Fenton felt strong, she did not know where she was or why she felt the way she did but she felt good and strong and ready to kill something. ‘No, I don’t want to kill someone, why did I think that?’ she wondered walking down the street, everything was a blur around her, people running and fighting, things exploding. ‘How did I get here?’ she wondered, last thing she remembered was walking down the streets of Geneva, on Terra, after a night out with friends from work. She had been celebrating the engagement of a friend, someone she worked with, then something had happened and she was here. She raised a hand to her face, the left side of her face felt fine, dirty but fine, the right side however felt wrong.
Turning to look into a shop window she saw what was wrong, the right side of Louise Fenton’s face was covered by a metal plate, her right eye was encased in a strange looking device. Realising this she saw the read-outs moving in front of her eye and tried to remove the device, it wouldn’t budge and she felt pain when trying to remove it, the pain felt good. Backing off from the building he looked at the rest of her body, Louise was naked head to toe, she wore nothing, although she was not a vain person Louise had always been pleased with the way her body looked.
In College she had been a star athlete and won several medals, her body was in good condition, her ample breasts had always brought admiring gazes from men and women and Louise was happy to see they looked as good as ever. Her normally shaved pubic regions were overgrown suggesting she had been here for weeks if not more, wherever here was, looking over her body she noticed scars on her legs she ran her right arm down the scars, they were not painful suggesting they were old but she could not remember them. Then she noticed the biggest thing that was wrong with her body, her right hand had been removed and replaced by a three fingered claw, like one seen on military battle suits! Moving the three fingers Louise could feel them moving like her fingers normally would, there was no difference to her real hand! Something was wrong! Something was very wrong! She thought, the anger was beginning to build within her, Louise could feel the anger build it felt good, it was time she found whoever had done this to her and why she was here and not at home with her family. Down the street she spied her target for her anger, an alien creature with a single V for an eye and massive bulky armoured plates covering its inhuman body.
Down the street a point of five Elementals were moving taking down anyone with a weapon while controlling any unrest from the civilians, because there was only their point for this street they were widely spread meaning help would take a while to come however none of the Nova Cats saw a problem, this was simple crowd control.
Point Commander Katriona commanded from the front, although she hated crowd control missions she was honour bound to complete the orders given to her by her senior officers. Suddenly out of the corner of her eye Katriona noticed something odd a naked woman charging at her, at amazing speed, Katriona turned to face the threat. Even though Katriona was in prime condition the Elemental seemed to turn in slow motion as the woman attacked, Katriona triggered her left arm mounted support machine gun, the chain gun tore into the woman’s chest however it seemed to have no effect. The naked woman was suddenly on her screaming tearing at the Elemental Battle Armour, Katriona saw no threat in the woman, she was injured and naked unarmed, there was no-way an unarmed woman could harm an Elemental normally let alone while they were in Battle Armour. Trying to flick her off however Katriona found this woman had somehow dug her arm into the short range missile pack disabling the weapon Katriona cut the backpack loose and both it and the woman dropped to the ground.
Looking at this crazy naked woman Katriona could see her chest was torn open by the machine gun but there was no blood “what are you?†Katriona asked with her suit’s loudspeakers. The woman only answered by charging again Katriona opened fire with the machine gun again this time tearing off the woman’s left arm, most targets would fall at this however this target continued forward, the attacker drew in close then with one swipe buried her right arm into Katriona’s chest breaking the armour and smashing Katriona’s rib cage crushing a lung in the process. Katriona immediately began to go into cardiac arrest and heart failure however in her death gasp she pulled the machine gun trigger sending over two hundred rounds into this crazy naked woman killing her. By the time the rest of the Elementals arrived from their own areas of the street all they found was Katriona’s corpse and the torn remains of another woman.
Word reached Ajax Drummond of the Elementals encounter with this mysterious warrior and he heard reports of other troopers encountering stronger opposition in Galus than had been expected with nearly a stars worth of Nova Cat troopers reporting damage. Following sixteen painstakingly slow hours the Nova Cats had secured Galus and began Ajax began splitting up his troops two Clusters were rendering full humanitarian aid to Galus trying to save as many people from the destroyed city as they could while the other two clusters were deployed to the other three cities. Taking no chances Ajax ordered the cities neutralised one by one with full force. Harn Fiefdom surrendered in eight hours the Warlord of Harn had died fighting the Nova Cats in the opening trials. The people of Harn Fiefdom also showed great compassion accepting groups of civilians from Galus. The Nova Cats left a star of vehicles and a star of Elementals to guard Harn then moved onto the next city Celt Fiefdom, the smallest city-state fell in less than two hours with no organised defenders to speak of, the Nova Cats left two points of Elementals and began to make plans to move the population from Celt Fiefdoms. Trellis Fiefdoms fell next in almost four hours, the resistance of this small city was bolstered by the appearance of a ninety ton Awesome which destroyed three Nova Cat Mechs and two armoured vehicles before being taken down, the warrior was taken as a bondsmen by the on scene Nova Cat commander.
The final Fiefdom New Saar was approached by nearly two Trinaries of Nova Cat troops who immediately encountered heavy weapons fire from turreted weapons systems which encircled the New Saar city. Following eighteen hours of hard fighting the Nova Cats were no nearly in breaking the New Saar perimeter defence loosing nearly a full binary of troops before Star Colonel Otis called in WarShip support. Unlike the weapons fire in Galus this weapons fire was far more effective and far more surgical, the naval autocannons slammed into all six major New Saar turrets destroying all in a blaze of fire. An hour later the Nova Cats were walking the streets of New Saar and completely in control.
Over the next week to month the Nova Cats would begin broaching the idea of taking the population off planet and offering them a better life with the Nova Cats. Most of the population resisted at first but eventually they agreed to leave Novo Franklin for a better standard of living.
A slightly darker twist to Periphery life, a legacy of the canon timeline
Hope you enjoyed
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Guest Quarters, House Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
12th March 3062
Following the Alexander Davion’s inspection was complete, some training and some R&R on Galax Victor Steiner-Davion, Danai Centrella and their bodyguard units had returned to New Avalon. As always there had been mass parades to welcome them back to the capital city of the Federated Suns, the people celebrated the return of their First Prince and of his guest Danai felt really strange, even in the Magistracy of Canopus her home nation, she had rarely felt so much from and for a worlds population.
Even though she was a guest on New Avalon and not officially an officer in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns she was still a MechWarrior and the commander of the Battalion of Magistracy warriors that had accompanied her to the Clan Homeworlds and into exile and she tried to spend as much time with these people as possible ensuring that she never forgot where she came from and the people that had followed her were happy.
Danai had chosen to retire early in the night, although there was a growing relationship with Victor she still received her own quarters in the massive palace because of her status as a visiting royal dignitary. Around midnight there was a knock on the doors Danai was awake almost immediately, a knife from under her pillow ready, old habits of battlefield readiness died hard. Looking around she noticed no-one was there but there was a quiet knock again there was someone outside, Danai replaced the knife climbed out of her bed and pulled on a dark green dressing gown with golden edges. “Enter!†She called the door crept open and light seeped into the room, Danai switched on a bedside light brightening the room. At the door stood Yvonne Steiner-Davion dressed in her own nightgown “Yvonne?â€
“Danai, are you awake?†Yvonne asked peering in she was a lot like Naomi, Danai’s sister, when they were younger on Canopus Naomi would come to see her when she was nervous about something or wanted to get advice.
“I am now†Danai whispered as Yvonne stepped into the room “what’s wrong?â€
“I needed to ask you a question, just one†she said Danai smiled, Yvonne was acting like a child asking for one more cookie after eating half the tin.
“Go on then†Danai said, there was no point in refusing, because now she was up there was no chance of her sleeping without answering the question. Yvonne moved across the room and perched on the edge of the bed.
“I was wondering, have you ever been in love? I mean really, really been in love?†Yvonne asked, at twenty-two years old Yvonne had been in love before but this was a question about true love.
“Did your brother put you up to this?†If she had asked that to anyone else they would have probably looked at Danai and wondered if she was on another planet, of all the people in the Inner Sphere Victor Steiner-Davion was the last person you’d expect to play these kind of games but in the short time Danai had known him she knew Victor was far happier playing soldier games than being polite and proper, which fit in with most Davion men from history.
“None of my brothers put me up to this, what have they got to do with it?†Yvonne asked thinking about all three of her brothers Arthur had returned to Robinson with Tarncred, Victor was down the corridor, up the stair and she hadn’t seen Peter in four years following his self-imposed exile.
“Nothing, have I ever been in love?†Danai asked quietly “yes, I have been.â€
“Was it love at first sight?†Yvonne asked obviously she had found someone.
“I thought you were going to ask one question!†Danai said teasing, she found it funny that they were both grown up women and were discussing this in a bedroom after midnight, the fact it was in a palace made it even funnier.
“You asked me a question so I get another, that's the rule you know?†Yvonne said a small smile creeping onto her face, she had never been this close with Katherine and her brothers were always more interested in combat.
“No, it wasn’t love at first sight. The man I fell in love with was in love with someone else.†Danai said thinking of the first time she had seen Victor away from the battlefield, he was the man she was in love with and the reason for not returning to the Magistracy even with her mother gone. “Are you in love Yvonne?†Danai asked in return, she knew Yvonne would keep asking questions now but she was interested and while she had become attached to Victor she was becoming attached to his life and his family as well.
“I think I am†Yvonne said, her voice was but a whisper “do you believe in love at first-sight? You know as soon as you see a person there is a connection and all you can do is think of them and see yourself with them?â€
“Two questions†Danai said smiling but she continued anyway, since first meeting Yvonne Danai had felt welcome and they had enjoyed some good times together, with her Danai felt totally accepted and almost like part of the family. “I believe in love at first-sight but you have to follow it up and make sure that buzz doesn’t die before you can make the feelings true and proper. I know what it is like to see someone and see your entire life with them, it has happened to me…†Danai said quietly thinking of Victor, she sometimes wondered if the Federated Suns First Prince felt the same way. Before they left for Clan Space Victor was close to Omi Kurita but since returning he hadn’t spoken to the Draconis Combine Princess, or Keeper of House Honour as the Dracs called it. The Clan War had changed Victor and somehow Danai had become part of his life.
“You should tell the person your in love with how you feel.†Yvonne said seeing Danai was thinking about herself at the same time as answering the questions.
“So should you.â€
“That’s the hard bit, his home isn’t quite down the road…â€
“You can travel anywhere in the realm Yvonne, if you feel strongly about someone don’t let it slip away.†Danai said Yvonne nodded and rose to her feet.
“I’ll let you get back to sleep, night Danai†Yvonne said moving off towards the doors.
“Good Night Yvonne†Danai said as Yvonne closed the doors Danai stayed silent for a couple of moments then extinguished her own lights going back to bed.
Reception Halls, House Davion Royal Palace
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th March 3062
The rumour mills on New Avalon had being going critical with a rumour that Victor would be leaving in a couple of days so Major Ross McKinnon still on leave from the Seventh Crucis Lancers, like the rest of his unit, had headed for the Royal Palace intent on requesting an audience with the First Prince. After four hours Ross had been taken into an auxiliary reception hall, which was smaller but no less impressive as the main hall, to find not Victor but Yvonne, the former Regent of the Federated Suns and Duchess of New Avalon. “Major, it is good to see you again, fully recovered from your dealings on Tortuga?â€
“Aff†Ross answered he cursed himself silently for using the Clan answer but Yvonne made no action that she had noticed as he continued “I am doing well Duchess, actually that is the reason for my being here today.â€
“How so?†Yvonne asked sitting down on a small comfortable sofa Ross sat on the other side without being asked Yvonne only smiled.
“During our time on Tortuga, I became close with the MI6 Detachment Commander Leftenant Rachel Montgomery.â€
“I remember her, the Leftenant is doing well I hope?â€
“Rachel is doing very well, thank you†Ross said smiling broadly thinking about her always brought a smile to his face. Rachel had just been promoted to Captain and would soon be returning to Rabid Fox duties meaning their wedding plans had been derailed and pushed back several months. “During our time on Tortuga we also became close to the on planet commander, and we were wondering if he could come to our wedding?â€
“You’re getting married to Leftenant Montgomery?†Ross nodded “Congratulations!†Yvonne said hugging Ross, who felt slightly embraced by the Duchesses actions, he had always had a good relationship with superiors but being hugged by Royals wasn't covered in most training books. “Now having a Nova Cat inside Federated Suns territory again? I do not know how that would be received.â€
“I know it is risky, Rachel actually wanted Canin’s entire unit invited but I convinced her it would be tough enough to get Canin invited alone, then we have to convince the Nova Cats to let him come if the First Prince allows it. I never knew a wedding could be this difficult.â€
“I will tell you this Major, I will talk to Victor for you and see what can be done, I am sure we can figure something out.†Yvonne said smiling, maybe this was the opportunity she had been looking for, it was the perfect excuse for her to go to Tortuga and find this Nova Cat in his natural habitat.
“You think so?†Ross asked, he was astonished Yvonne would be so willing to help so quickly, he was expecting this could cost him his promotion or more.
“Ross, this is the Federated Suns anything is possible, watch this space.†She said and with that she raised and left the room, Ross was left sitting on the sofa dumbfounded not sure he had just experienced what he had experienced. Maybe this wedding was possible.
-
First Prince’s Office, House Davion Royal Palace
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th March 3062
It had been a long day, hell it had been a long week, for Victor. He had not been able to spend much time with his sister or Danai Centrella and he hadn’t been inside his Mech and with his troops since Galax nearly two weeks before. So when the doors of his office opened and Yvonne entered, wearing a two piece dark blue suit with a short business skirt replacing trousers, Victor immediately took notice. Rarely did Yvonne dress in such a business manner, that was more Katherine’s style “Yvonne, I’m sort of busy, I rendezvous with the Melissa Davion later and everything has to be sorted before I leave.†He said the FSS Melissa Davion, the Federated Suns first operational Avalon-class Cruiser, had entered the system eight hours ago at a pirate point. Once he joined them they would have a four month journey to their destination before negotiations which could take just as long, he wanted to make sure everything was set on New Avalon before he left, he felt bad about leaving the Federated Suns again but he knew that only a member of the ruling line could complete this deal.
“This won’t take long†Yvonne said formally walking over to the desk sitting on one of the guest chairs crossing her legs, she was totally confident and it was obvious to Victor she wanted something important.
“What is it?†He asked briskly professionally, “that’s not right, sorry†he apologised almost immediately this was his sister not some diplomat of foreign dignitary, although she was acting like one “Yvonne, what's going on? How can I help?†He said more softly putting down what he was looking at giving her his full attention.
“My Prince†she said sending Victor into an even higher sense of alert, Yvonne never addressed him by his title “I want to go to Tortuga.†She said, Victor almost choked with surprise and reached for a glass of water downing half of it before looking back at her.
“You want to what?†He asked wanting to ensure he had heard her right.
“I want to go to Tortuga to see the Nova Cats there.†He had heard her right, Yvonne had not been part of his planning why would she want to go? How could she know of his plans?
“Why?†He asked leaning back in the chair.
“A few days ago Major Ross McKinnon came here looking for you, unfortunately you were in a meeting and I took the meeting.†She said, Victor had known about this but not the reason for the Major’s appearance at the Palace. “You see Ross is getting married to the commander of the Rabid Fox contingent that was on Tortuga with him, a Captain Rachel Montgomery. As part of their wedding plans they wanted to request Star Colonel Canin Rosse the Nova Cat Commander on Tortuga was allowed to attend, assuming he was alive.†She said ‘good she understands the Clanner may be dead, knowing the Clans’ Victor thought silently as he listened, 'the way this is going I hope he is' he continued.
“You didn’t promise them anything did you?†Victor asked quietly, his plans did not include Nova Cats setting foot on Federated Suns soil, not yet.
“No I did not, I just said I would do what I could.†Yvonne said raising from her chair “now over the last two days I have spoken to several members of the High Command that know about the Nova Cats inside Tortuga, their so-called Nova Cat’s Den, and they have all told me that you were planning on going to Tortuga. So Victor†she said standing then perching herself on the edge of the table “I will go to Tortuga as your representative and you can take care of things here on New Avalon, the people need you.â€
“Absolutely not, firstly no-one should have revealed those plans†Victor said showing his annoyance. “Yvonne, the Nova Cats might not even see me, they might take out the Melissa Davion or worse capture me and turn on the Federated Suns…†Victor said outlining his worst fears, if the Nova Cats turned on the lone Avalon with substantial force then the Cruiser would stand little chance it was a risk but one he knew he had to take.
“Exactly for that reason I should go. Victor if you are killed or capture the Federated Suns will have lost a leader and since you haven’t got any heir’s the throne would fall to me or Arthur. I am not comfortable with that responsibility and Arthur is becoming more and more anti-Combine, he would lead us to war.†Yvonne hated having to outline things in such black-and-white terms but it was true Arthur had become a rallying point in the Draconis March, and the call for war against the Draconis Combine was growing daily. “The only other person that could take over, and she happily would, is Katherine.†Yvonne said she noticed Victor take these words like body-blows and remembered that if it had not been for the arrival of the Nova Cats Katherine would be in charge of New Avalon right now because of her invitation to her elder sister.
“So what would you do? Turn up and tell the Nova Cats you wanted to invite one of their Star Colonels to a wedding and by the way the Federated Suns would like to get to know you a bit better?†Victor asked throwing his arms in the air.
“Something like that. What were you planning?†Yvonne asked realising the rumours coming from the High Command had been right, Victor was planning on going to Tortuga to see the Nova Cats, soon.
“I was going to turn up and ask them for assistance in finding and destroying the WarShip that destroyed New Syrtis JumpShip yards.â€
“And how would they be able to find them?â€
“It was a Taurian WarShip, I was thinking of painting the picture of a dangerous Nuclear capable WarShip on the prowl. Pointing at the Taurian Concordat and sending in the Nova Cats.â€
“As shock troops?†Yvonne asked she was quite shocked, the Nova Cats she had met were nothing like the Clan troops Victor described fighting before.
“They are Clansmen, Yvonne, all they are bred for is combat.â€
“Then why did the Severn Lervoux negotiate with us instead of attack, or the Nova Cat forces negotiate with ComStar for one of their Yardships when they could have fought for it?†She had read the reports when Victor was away and it looked like she could have to fill the hot-seat permanently if he didn‘t come back someday ‘good‘ Victor thought quietly knowing that people who became First Prince of the Federated Suns didn‘t always live long lives. "These Clansmen are not the same as the Jaguars" she pointed out.
“I don’t know.†Victor admitted, he hadn’t thought about why they had negotiated only that they were a clear and present danger to his realm, just like the Taurian WarShip.
“Well they are more like Phelan’s Wolves†she said from what had happened so far she saw the Nova Cats akin to their cousin Phelan Kell’s Warden Wolf (in-Exile) Clan than the Crusader Jade Falcons or the destroyed Smoke Jaguars. “Tell me did they fight in the Great Refusal on Strana Mechty?†She asked, Victor shook his head Yvonne had read the after action reports and knew the answer already but wanted Victor to see what she saw. “Intelligence places the Nova Cats as one of the stronger Clans, with a powerful navy and a capable ground force, yet instead of invading the Inner Sphere they found another place to gain territory and make a home. They destroyed a pirate threat that we ourselves created†Yvonne said, during their father’s time Fuchida’s Fusiliers a mercenary regiment had been ordered to engage the Clans despite having far inadequate technology or training to face such a threat. Fuchida’s Fusiliers had refused, broken their contract, then raided several Federated Suns weapons depots on their way to becoming the Tortuga Fusiliers. “According to the Nova Cats the Fusiliers had been annihilated and the Nova Cats were taking care of other threats in the area.â€
“So we should leave them where they are and invite them to a wedding?†Victor asked shocked that he had just said what he had said.
“No we should give them an opportunity to operate against Inner Sphere targets.†Yvonne said smiling Victor looked at her surprised but remained quiet interested in what she had to say. “We inform them that a rouge WarShip is operating in the area and is armed with Nuclear weapons. We give them the information we gathered from the New Syrtis attack and ask them for assistance in defending Galax, Kathil and the remains of New Syrtis Shipyards so we can hunt down this vessel. The Nova Cats gain the right to assign three WarShips to our territory, these vessels are to stay out of sight but be ready to act if needed. During their time we will keep them fully supplied and keep their warriors from becoming bored, we will also give their officers tours of the three shipyards and see what information we can get from their people.â€
“We seem to be getting a lot from this deal and they seem to be getting little.â€
“They get intelligence on the WarShip and a look at our shipyard facilities more than any of the other Succession states could dream of. We feed them intelligence on the Inner Sphere and make sure it is decent not eight months out of date as we do with most exchanges†Yvonne said walking around the room, Victor smiled he had never seen her like this before “we also give them the right to station a single Cluster in our space and ask for it to be commanded by this Star Colonel Canin Rosse for the first rotation. During their time in the Federated Suns the Nova Cats will be allowed to train against any unit in the Federated Suns they wish and they will be allowed to fight in St Ives, assuming the fighting is still on-going, and the Chaos March. This gives the Nova Cats real combat experience against real targets something they are probably lacking in the periphery.†She said outlining her plan, Victor was impressed that she had done this without any help, it was likely that Jackson and maybe Ardan had helped her in some places, but still even with help Victor was impressed with his little sister’s accomplishments.
“And what do you get out of this? Yvonne you have never been interested in combat, war or the military. Why the change?â€
“I get the knowledge that I have helped two of our citizens make their wedding perfect. For once I help my big brother with a problem and I get to do something other than be a face for our family on New Avalon. And I‘m finally growing up, it‘s time to take some responsibility in my life.†She said Victor could see how that could be the reason but she had to have another reason, one she wasn’t willing to share with him.
“You want this?â€
“I doâ€
“I guess you had better be on the Melissa Davion then.†Victor said surrendering, if she wanted this then he would give her the chance. Yvonne’s face immediately brightened as if a hundred pains had been lifted, Victor knew she wasn’t telling him everything that had driven her to this but he would let her keep her own council for now. “Anything else before I show you through all this?â€
“Yes, one or two other things…†she said telling Victor of her conversations with Danai the night before, she had done some guessing work that Danai had been talking about her brother that night and now she wanted to know about how he felt for Danai.
After several hours of deep conversation Victor fully admitted he was falling in love with Danai and he told Yvonne of Morgan’s concerns, especially considering the Magistracy’s connection to the Capellans. Yvonne reminded Victor that Danai had not returned to the Magistracy since arriving back from Clan Space and that Danai did not trust the Capellan influence over her sister Naomi. As far as Yvonne and her womanly instincts were concerned Danai was falling more and more in love with the Federated Suns and was forgetting about home and her rights as heir to the Centrella throne. Before Yvonne left she told her brother to follow his heart with Danai before he drove her away and out of the realm through neglect. Also just before she left Yvonne sent Ross McKinnon and his bride, to-be, a message asking them to hold off getting married until 3063, she might have a surprise guest for them, this message was carried by one of Yvonne’s personnel aids and was destroyed as soon as it had been read and understood by Ross and Rachel.
The next day the Melissa Davion left the Federated Suns heading for Tortuga, on board Yvonne Steiner-Davion Victor’s personal representative. As far as the population of New Avalon knew Yvonne was away to see her brother Peter at Saint Marinus House on Zaniah in the Lyran Alliance and would be gone for several months before returning, hopefully with Peter in tow. Victor just hoped the media would stay off Zaniah and not start looking for Yvonne there.
Uninhabited Island
New Avalon, New Hebrides Isles
Crucis March, Federated Suns
27th March 3062
In the early spring morning Danai Centrella had awoken early in her guest quarters inside the Davion Royal Palace and went for a run. She had expected to find Victor for breakfast but he was nowhere to be seen probably in some meeting. Yvonne had left a couple of days before. For the first time since coming to New Avalon Danai felt alone, Danai was tempted to skip breakfast and go see the Magistracy troops on the field with the Tenth Lyran, she could feel like she was home or on the battlefield when she was with them much like when she had first met Victor, and seen him as the man who was more comfortable being the warrior and the leader of the troops than a state leader and career politician. Deciding against skipping breakfast, the most important meal of the day, her mother had called it. She sat down to breakfast in the main hall, the table was huge and she felt crazy being in this room alone just for breakfast. One of the house servants had given her a note from Victor. On the note had been written:
Danai, my apologies for not joining you for breakfast
there are affairs of state that need my attention.
Give this to the pilot on the roof and get in, leave the guards.
See you soon Victor x.
As long as she had known him Victor had never signed messages with an ‘x’ although it was definitely a message from Victor written in the scrawl he called hand-writing. So Danai had finished her breakfast quickly and headed up onto the roof, sitting there was a Lexan Oceanic Series IV Luxury Helicopter. The Lexan Oceanic was an expensive aircraft starting at 1.1 million C-Bills in cost, Danai hadn’t been aware of any one New Avalon, the Series IV was sixty tons in weight, had two massive sets of main rotors and was capable of landing in water. Looking over the aircraft Danai moved near the front of the craft. “I was told to give you this†she said nervously handing over the note to the pilot.
“Understood, I can take you there now Duchess, please climb aboard†the pilot said as he and his co-pilot climbed into the cockpit. Although she had no idea where ‘there’ was Danai climbed in the rear cabin. The Series IV’s main section was effectively a fully sized room fitted with every comfort that travellers would ever need with plush seating area, a large flat-screen video sets and a small but very functional bar area. Pouring herself a fresh orange-juice Danai settled into one of the large chairs as the aircraft lifted off and began to fly over Avalon City before heading out over the ocean. Over the ocean the aircraft accelerated to top speed, nearly two hundred kilometres per hour, Danai had noticed just how quiet the aircraft was as it skimmed surface of New Avalon‘s busy oceans, although travel by sea was not as popular as it once had been on ancient Terra there was still companies that used sea going tankers to transport raw materials instead of using expensive DropShips, it was slow but still got the job done at a fraction of the price.
For nearly six hours the aircraft flew over open oceans, Danai had drifted off to sleep and was still asleep when she was wakened by the Lexan Oceanic’s extending of landing gear as the aircraft landed. The pilot leapt from the cockpit and ran around the aircraft and opening the doors allowing her to exit onto a soft sand beach, leading her clear he returned to the aircraft and the aircraft was gone again into the darkening sky, there was total silence within about thirty seconds as the aircraft disappeared. Danai looked around the beach and wondered if Victor was playing a prank on her, the island looked totally abandoned. Then she began to smell something burning, walking along the beach she removed her shoes within a couple of steps the sand was so soft. Walking barefoot around a group of large stones she felt like a child on an adventure holiday anxiously waiting the next thrill. Ahead she could see a small camp “Hello!†She called as she walked around the single tent to find a raging fire and a barbeque. Standing at the barbeque was Victor Steiner-Davion in a pair of red sandals, a pair of sky-blue shorts, a dirty white apron and a pair of dark sunglasses in his sandy blonde hair, he looked quite a picture especially without his shirt, “you should have told me! I would have brought a camera, I could have made a killing when I got back to Avalon City just by selling one picture.†She said amongst the giggling that was taking over her as she closed, walking off Victor gave her a betrayed look “I’m sorry it’s just this is so unexpected.†She said noticing an icebox with a dozen or so beers in it, this was beginning to remind her of the Victor she had met fighting the Clans a man who cared little for appearances, cared everything for his men and the moment, not the future.
“Have a drink and dinner will be served as soon as I can get it off this thing without burning my fingers.†Victor said struggling with the food, Danai crossed to the icebox and sat on one of the loungers looking out over the beach, in the background she heard Victor yelp as he burnt something on the barbeque. The light was beginning to fade and the fire was silhouetting everything, looking out over the sea she could see for miles upon miles and not a person in sight it was perfect.
“It‘s beautiful here!†Danai called over her shoulder, so he could hear her over the fire, but Victor was already appearing in front of her.
“Dinner is served†Victor said dropping down on the other lounger with a pair of plates full of food, some of it was a little over done and some of it was more like charcoal than food but Danai made no comments as they ate and enjoyed the scene.
“How did you set this up?†She asked eating a mouthful hamburger, although it was slightly burned it was gorgeous, the First Prince of the Federated Suns was a good cook as well as an impressive general, a learning statesman, a strong leader of men and a good man.
“I’m the First Prince of the Inner Sphere’s most powerful nation, anything is possible.†Victor said eating his own burger keeping tight-lipped about how he had done this, but Danai wasn‘t ready to give up on it yet.
“But how can you be here, out of communication with the High Command, with everything? What if something happened?â€
“It won’t.†Victor said confidently “and if something was to happen†he took a swig of his own beer “I’m the First Prince and this is New Avalon, if they wanted me it wouldn’t be difficult.†He said biting into his burger again. Danai continued to eat her own food, Victor certainly had made a lot of food, something that shouldn’t really have shocked her. When they had first met Victor and the Tenth Lyran, his Revenants, were resting after a major battle on the Smoke Jaguar front and were tucking into a meal just like this one there had been so much going around Danai‘s entire unit had been invited along with all the tech support from both units. Although Victor had been wearing more that time than he was now and he hadn‘t cooked the meal it brought back fond memories for both of them. “How’s your food?â€
“Good†she said her mouth full of food, they both burst into laughter, all their noble training gone they were just two people enjoying the scene, good food and each others company. “Why did you do this?†she asked clearing her mouth. Victor continued to eat smiling, again this was the Victor she had fallen for in the field the warrior, the comrade-in-arms and the joker.
“For you, for me†he finally said “for New Avalon, for the Federated Suns†he took another drink “for the Inner Sphere, , for humanity even the Clans†he continued followed by another drink from the bottle “for the galaxy, for history…†she had seen him like this before and knew he could go on for a while, the only way the members of the Tenth Lyran were able to stop him when he was in this kind of mood was to tackle him. So Danai launched herself at him pushing Victor back onto his lounger kissing him deeply in thanks “for that†he said quietly they both burst into laughter “and that!â€
“Would you stop that!†She said again pushing to the deck, for now he was not a First Prince and she was not a visiting Duchess, they were just man and woman. Their instincts took over laughed and remembered what it was like just to live Victor leaned forward and kissed her back they were locked like that holding each other and kissing for what seemed like hours.
“And for, this…†Victor whispered reaching into the sand behind them as they kissed, he couldn’t find what he was looking for so he kissed her again then reached into the sand on the other side again nothing so he kissed her again before reaching back to the original spot again this time finding the object, he retrieved a blue diamond ring with one blue diamond in the centre and four green diamonds surrounding it “…this is for you.†He said holding it in front of Danai who was mesmerised by it as he started to put it on her finger, her wedding finger, Danai began to weep “we don’t have to… I mean I want… but if you… Danai I love you.†He said stuttering around not knowing what to say as he saw the tears run down her cheeks, he was slightly shocked by her reaction. “If this is too much…†He hoped she would not say it was he‘d finally admitted he was in love with her and now he prayed she felt the same.
“No†she said, wiping the tears from her cheeks, Victor’s heart sank “this is wonderful†she said looking around and back to Victor then to the ring “all of this, you, are wonderful†she said kissing him “I love you with all my heart.â€
“Then what’s wrong?â€
“Nothing, I just wish my mother was here to see it.â€
“I’m kinda glad your mother and my mother are not here to see this†Danai looked at him shocked he would say such a thing his mother had been dead for years killed by an assassin’s bomb, and her mother was only newly deceased, how could he say such a thing. “I mean look at us, we are on a beach, I’m half naked, your hopefully going to be naked soon, then two naked people together well things happen…†His voice trailed off as both he and Danai struggled to keep a straight face “… and well if our parents were here then, that would just be embarrassing, and I think illegal in most parts of the world, especially this world since I'm the Prince and…†He said continuing to rattle off information. So Danai, borrowed the Tenth's method again, pinned him to the lounger again in a long deep kiss. “…so is that a yes?†He asked as they broke off Danai remained silent lying on top of him she drew back slightly, Victor held her close gently Danai didn’t resist just relaxing into his grasp. When she remained silent Victor spoke again “Danai, I will love you whatever your answer, but I must ask Danai Kyalla Centrella will you be my wife and marry me?â€
“With all my heart I must say…†there was a pause in her voice that went on for an eternity, Victor was sure for a moment she was going to say she couldn’t but then there it was “yes, I will marry you, Victor Ian Steiner-Davion.†Victor launched himself to his feet brining Danai to her feet at the same time as he began dancing around the fire, he grabbed Danai and although he was not the tallest person showed he had the strength of many men carrying her around the fire as they danced locked in an embrace they entered the tent for a very long loving night, one that would be the first of many.
-
ROM Headquarters
Mars, Terran System
Chaos March
12th April 3062
The Word of Blake ROM, Intelligence Branch, was one of the most effective in the whole of the Inner Sphere and Clans. When they had split from ComStar the Word of Blake had taken nearly ninety percent of ComStar’s ROM personnel and they had transferred seamlessly to the Word of Blake command on Terra. Since the liberation of Mars from ComStar’s Occupation forces the Word of Blake had turned Mars into a hive of research labs and ROM outposts. From Mars the ROM could spy on any of the Successor States using the powerful intelligence networks ComStar had built over the centuries it controlled the Terran System.
Rarely did Precentor-Martial Cameron St Jamis travel to Mars normally he expected anyone who wanted to see him to come to see him on Terra or wherever he was in the Inner Sphere. Precentor ROM Alexander Kernoff had requested that Cameron come to Mars however, as Kernoff was a member of the Toyama Sect of the Word of Blake leadership and a member of the Sixth of June Cameron had appeased him. The Word of Blake unlike the corrupt ComStar believed in a mix of leaders and styles so there were several sects within the Word of Blake Ruling Conclave including: the Counter-Reformists, the Expatriates, the True Believers, the Shunners and the Toyama. Until recently the True Believers had held the power in the Word of Blake however with the deaths of Precentor-Martial Trent Adrian and his aide Precentor Suzanne Mulvanery to a suspected terrorist bomb and the raising of Cameron to the post of Precentor Martial the more radical Toyama were gaining more and more power with Kernoff the leader of the Sect and St Jamis in a powerful position as well. The Sixth of June were an even more radical group inside the Toyama, although an unrecognised one, within the Word of Blake many believed that it was the Sixth of June and not ComStar that had killed Trent and Mulvanery to elevate their leader Cameron St Jamis to the post of Precentor-Martial. This gave what effectively was a terrorist organisation control of the Word of Blake Militia.
Cameron entered Kernoff’s command dome on Mars, instead of one massive structure on the Martian surface the Word of Blake had built hundreds of self-contained domes compartmentalising everything and keeping everything buried beneath hundreds of layers of secrecy, on top of this there was only one communications station on Mars and that was only linked to one place, a WarShip in high orbit, everything coming out of Mars was controlled and anything going into Mars was rarely heard of again. “Kernoff this had better be important.†Cameron said immediately dispensing with the pleasantries, Kernoff was an old man in his seventies at least he had lived twice as long as Cameron but made no comment on the Precentor-Martial’s abruptness.
“Oh it is, Cameron†Kernoff said quietly, inside the Word of Blake Alexander Kernoff was the only one who called Cameron by his first name, he was also probably the only one who could get away with it. “We found the CSWS Ranger in deep space. Well actually it was a ComStar Explorer Corps group that did but they turned the information over to me.â€
“The Ranger?†Cameron said quietly thinking the vessel was a Lola-III-class Destroyer “you called me to Mars to tell me we found a destroyer in deep space? We have a dozen of those already, another Battleship would have been worth the call but not a Destroyer.†He went on the Word of Blake had built an impressive navy but every ship helped Kernoff thought he’d be happy about such a find especially since it was a ComStar vessel.
“Not quite. We have also lost contact with Novo Franklin base, our first level Soldiers were undergoing indoctrination and first level implantation there.†Kernoff said now Cameron was going from being angry about being called here for nothing to worried that someone had discovered their forces training in the Periphery before the coming of the Third Transfer.
“Damn. What of our forces in Tortuga?†Their agents on Tortuga Prime had been turning the Tortuga Fusiliers to the Word’s call but suddenly just over a year before all contact had been lost.
“We have still not heard from them. It is possible the Fusiliers turned on us but we would have heard something if that was the case, we have heard nothing from the Tortuga Dominions.â€
“What about ComStar have they anything to do with this?â€
“Possibly, they have assigned additional forces to Columbus following an attack on Nowhere in the Draconis Combine, and one of their Faslane-class vessels is missing. It also appears they are reorganising their fleet following the losses during Bulldog and Serpent.â€
“So what is our losses on Franklin, consider it a total loss.†Cameron asked reorganising the Word’s plans in his mind working around the loss of Franklin.
“A total loss?†Kernoff said surprised the Precentor-Martial would turn them loose so easily it would drive half the projects on Mars months behind schedule, “an Entire Division of Regular Troops, the Sixth Division. Special Operations troops nearly as many, another full division and months of research down the drain, I'd call it a complete debacle, and now answers to the reason.â€
“Damn. Move all our operations away from that area of space, something is wrong there.†Kernoff nodded, normally Cameron could make those orders himself but this was special projects and fell under Kernoff’s purview, at least officially and at least for now.
“What of the Heracles?â€
“Recall it here before the Davion’s decide to invade the Taurian Concordat looking for it, find it and blow it up, the way our luck is running we may need the vessel here.â€
“They might do that anyway before it can get here.â€
“And without evidence of a preparatory vessel they will have launched an illegal war against a sovereign state which will turn the Inner Sphere against the Federated Suns and work in our favour. Make sure the vessel returns via our hidden network in the Capellan Confederation, that should hide it from all eyes.â€
“Wouldn’t be the first time the Federated Suns has done something against public opinion knowing that in the long run it would benefit them, the Fourth Succession War for example.â€
“Perhaps but Victor does not seem the type to rush into decisions.†Cameron said thinking quietly ‘Victor is useless for our plans, Arthur and Katherine are far more useful’ he decided to move up other operations. “Increase our operations in the Capellan Confederation, Free Worlds League and push the timetable forward for the Marian Hegemony and Cirincus Federation.â€
“What of the Taurians?â€
“What of them? Forget them, for now Sharplen is crazy enough without our help.â€
“And Kali?â€
“Authorise Kali to inform her people that it is time to reunite the Capellan Confederation and for them to bring the defenders of St Ives to their knees.†Cameron said smiling thinking about all the carnage sweet Kali and her minions were about to unleash on the tiny little rebellious state. He actions would be a nice test for the future gauging the reactions of the Inner Sphere by unleashing the things they feared most on St Ives was a good way to test something.
Command Deck, Snow Raven (Nightlord)
Brim Shipyards, Brim
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
14th April 3062
From the bridge of the Snow Raven, Clan Snow Raven’s Nightlord-class Battleship, entered shipyards at Brim. From there the vessel would undergo a period of upgrading bringing the vessel back the title of being the most lethal WarShip fielded by the Clans. Over time the Nightlord had been surpassed by other WarShips so Khan Lyn McKenna had ordered her Clan’s scientists to upgrade the Nightlord and make it a more effective fighter. Over a year later they had come back with a redesign of the Snow Raven’s weapons configuration and the Khan had immediately approved the changes, now the Snow Raven was entering the Brim Shipyards for and eight month refit. Because of the sheer size of the vessel, the largest built by the Clans in numbers, the Snow Raven took over an entire ‘dry-dock’ at Brim causing several delays and a great cost for the Snow Ravens and Diamond Sharks. In the Snow Raven’s opinion however the cost was worth it.
The Brim Shipyards were amongst the largest and most advanced in existence, they even out paced the three of the biggest Inner Sphere yards Port Sydney Yards, the Federated-Boeing Shipyards at Galax and the New Samarkand Shipyards but not quite the Titan Shipyards in the Terra system. The Brim Shipyards were co-administered by Clan Snow Raven and Clan Diamond Shark and there WarShips, DropShips and Fighters were constructed and modified by the two Clans. The other Clans often contracted the two Clans for maintenance of their vessels.
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Second Royal BattleMech Regiment
Command Tent, Milos
St Ives Compact
2nd May 3062
Following nearly five months of heavy fighting the Capellan Confederation Forces were beginning to fall back from the St Ives Compact worlds, Chancellor Sun Tzu-Liao finally seeing that his forces could not stand against the combined might of the St Ives Armed Forces, the Star League Defence Forces and the Federated Suns forces still based in the St Ives area.
Against her best efforts Lieutenant-General Marguerite McCafee, commander of the Second Royal BattleMech Regiment, was still alive struggling with the horrors of battle on St Ives and with her past demons. Some of her most trusted warriors had suggested that she should retire, that there would be no dishonour in stepping aside after all she had heard and seen. Marguerite had slammed them down, harder than she had meant, they had no right to tell her what she should and should not do since then she had drifted away from people she considered to be close allies people she had bled with against the Clans and Capellans and trained with her entire career. Once thing she knew was she needed to find an out before the Commanding-General arrived, Morgan Hasek-Davion had been in the Chaos March for the last couple of months forming the First Battle Armour Corps however now he was on his way to the St Ives Compact with ComStar Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht, they would call for a meeting with the Capellan Chancellor and bring the conflict to an end and end any chance of her ending her life in combat.
A young Infantry Lieutenant entered the command tent and saluted “Mam, there is an local mayor’s aid at the gates asking to speak to you. He said he brings news of Capellan atrocities committed against civilian targets in his town.
“Have him brought here†the infantry man saluted and rushed off to get the civilian visitor “Captain Markesan assemble your company. If the intelligence is accurate I want to catalogue it first hand and drive off the Capellans before they can try and cover anything up.â€
“Yes, Mam†Captain Nicole Markesan said leaving the tent just as the infantry man returned, it was a good five minutes from the gates to the tent so the man must have been allowed onto the base without authorisation, the Lieutenant had got it right this time but Marguerite would have to drill the units personnel on correct procedure.
“Welcome to the Second BattleMech Regiment Command Post, I am Lieutenant General…†Marguerite began just as the civilian flipped off the cloak she had been wearing, the Woman’s head had been shaved and her eyes were wide and bloodshot, she was muttering something silently under her breath and around her waist was ring upon ring of explosives and small glass canisters filled with liquid and surrounded by ball-bearings “this is how I die†Marguerite said her voice but a whisper just before the woman detonated her suicide bomb which engulfed the whole command tent killing almost ever senior member of the Second’s command staff. With the explosion there was a gas that filled the immediate area taking nearly another battalions worth of troops before they could enact NBC protocols.
Throughout the St Ives Compact Thuggee Terrorists loyal to the insane Kali Liao, sister to Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao, carried out similar attacks killing thousands of innocent civilians and members of the St Ives Armed Forces included in these deaths was Mandrinn Tormano Liao leader of the Free Capella Resistance Group. Although he did not authorize these attacks Sun-Tzu Liao did take advantage of the confusion caused by the attacks and launched another offensive against the St Ives Compact including a raid on St Ives itself following a Thuggee attack on the Spaceport and another near the Royal Palace. These attacks would become known as the Black May attacks. Calls for Kali Liao’s immediate arrest are heeded by Chancellor Liao and Kali is taken under arrest by Capellan authorities until she can be tried for her crimes, Kali was imprisoned on the World of Highspire, the world she would eventually be sentenced to life imprisonment. The Second Royal BattleMech Regiment and its support assets are withdrawn from the St Ives Compact returning to their base world, Kittery, until a new command staff could take charge.
Former-Franklin Fiefdoms
Novo Franklin, Periphery
5th May 3062
Although some people resisted leaving their homes for a start there was little left of Novo Franklin that was worth them remaining and most realised that the Nova Cats did not want to leave the world populated, although they would leave a garrison if anyone chose to leave, knowing this they chose to make life easier on the new landlords and move to the Nova Cat‘s Den. From Tortuga the people would be screened and watched by Nova Cat Watch personnel before being moved on to other planets. Because of what had been observed on Novo Franklin none of these people were to be permitted anywhere near New Barcella or the Varnay systems.
The second target for Tau Galaxy, the Mica Majority, would be left for now as Tau Galaxy begins rotating to New Barcella. By the end of June Tau Galaxy would be the new defenders of New Barcella while Alpha Galaxy and Xi Galaxy would be ready to move to the Homeworlds supporting military actions there and brining them up to standard against proper Clan opponents. En Route they would deploy another HPG Relay Station in the deep periphery completing the link between the Homeworlds and the Nova Cat’s Den. Once the two Galaxies arrived in the Homeworlds in December Sigma Galaxy, the Current Homeworlds garrison, would rotate back to the Nova Cat’s Den on its way back the Galaxy would check both HPG Relays to ensure they were operating at peak efficiency.
Meanwhile Delta Galaxy under the command of saKhan Karl Devalis also leaves the Nova Cat’s Den heading for Astrokaszy on a long range reconnaissance mission to the distant Free Worlds League Border world. With two Nova Cat WarShips, the Lucian Carns, the second Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser to enter service, and the Vision Quest, one of the Nova Cat’s powerful Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, and supported by two Carrack Merchant-class Transports from the Merchant Caste the Galaxy is more than prepared to meet the most well equipped force in the Periphery region.
The Nova Cats are not on a peaceful mission however they plan on searching Astrokaszy for any Star League Depots that have not been plundered by raiders over the centuries and eliminate any bandit force that attempts to stop them. The Nova Cats also plan on contacting the Niops Astronomy Consortium to see if this colony has survived the Succession Wars as an independent world, Niops was colonised by the Star League centuries before and is in the same area of space. The Niops Consortium was made up of some of the Star League’s top Astronomers and had some of the best technology defending them from bandit attacks on this remote outpost. Hopefully they will have valuable research data and Astronomical data the Nova Cats can use in future operations.
Sirius Concordance
Sirius, Free Worlds League
15th May 3062
In 3062 all three Regiments of the Sirian Lancers begin to a purge their ranks of all non-Sirian born personnel in direct violation of FWLM Rules and Regulations. The Free Worlds League deploy the Fourth Free Worlds League Legionaries and the Thirty-seventh Marik Militia to the Sirius Concordance worlds of Sirius and Procoyn however the Sirian Lancers refuse orders to stop purging their ranks of warrior not born within the Sirian Concordance.
With public opinion behind the Lancer regiments the Fourth and Thirty-seventh do not impede the Sirian Lancers instead wait for orders from Atreus, in the meantime the two units try to mend bridges burned when the FWLM refused to liberate Sirius and Procoyn.
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Bridge, FSS Melissa Davion (Avalon-class Cruiser)
Nadir Point, Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
29th June 3062
After three months of travelling alone through the Federated Suns Crucis March and into the Periphery the FSS Melissa Davion entered the Tortuga Prime system a world that once was a hive of pirate activity now resided in the Nova Cat’s Den an unknown amount of planets that was claimed by Clan Nova Cat. Entering this system with a vessel as large as the Avalon-class Melissa Davion was dangerous but it also showed the Nova Cats that they could field powerful vessels without having to rely on Nova Cat gifts such as the Thunderchild.
Sitting at the Nadir Point the Avalon-class Cruiser scanned the system, the Avalon was an impressive feat of engineering seven hundred and seventy thousand tons in mass it was just over eight hundred metres in length. Along the each side of the vessel were long tubular sections that tapered away to cone shaped engine shields in the rear. In the centre of these tube sections was a broad central area covered in weapons emplacements and sensor towers including one in the centre of the vessel. Under this main hull were six DropShip Collars and twelve launch bays for the vessels two aerospace squadrons. One thing that did mark the Avalon as a Federated Suns vessel was the hull, the entire ship was painted in a deep red with black lines highlighting some areas and ringed the vessel. On the main tower was the Federated Suns sword-and-sunburst insignia and on the aft upper hull the Davion family crest was painted.
“Nothing in immediate vicinity, Duchess†Admiral Victoria Napier, the Melissa’s commander, said turning to Duchess Yvonne Steiner-Davion commander of the mission who stood at the rear of the bridge, although the Avalon-class followed modern design with the command centre near the centre of the ship far from the hull and any windows the Federated Suns navy still followed traditional designations such as bridge for the command centre, these terms were a hold over from blue navy vessels of ancient Terra centuries before when man was restricted to Terra alone amongst the stars.
“The Fox’s Teeth said the same.†Yvonne said “there was nothing out of the ordinary or anything that would set off alarm bells. Begin to broadcast our message of peace and begin the burn in system.â€
“Weapons and auxiliary craft status?â€
“Weapons in hot-standby mode, either a squadron of fighters or one DropShip outside at anytime. If a DropShip has fighters they can launch one flight at a time for two hour periods.†She said the Admiral nodded and seemed content with that heading off to hand out orders. The Melissa Davion’s engines roared into life and Yvonne began to feel gravity pull her down to the deck, it wasn’t like planetary gravity but it was constant and it was far better than the zero gravity they had been experiencing. Under the ship six fighters launched and began patrolling the area around the Melissa, just in case the Nova Cats thought they were the vanguard of an attack force. On every communication frequency known to the Federated Suns the Melissa Davion was piping out that they were on a mission of peace and trade not war, hopefully the Nova Cat’s were listening.
As the massive unknown WarShip began to move the Fredasa-class Future Triumph watched the silently before activating its own manoeuvring drives, so far the star’s radiation had hidden them but soon that would not help. The Future Triumph had sent word to the rest of the Clan of this incursion and was ready to act on its own to delay the intruder until the bigger vessels arrived however that would not be necessary the Nova Cat Khans on New Barcella believed the vessel’s story it was on a peaceful mission and the Future Triumph quickly received word that two WarShips were en-route to act as an escort for the new vessel to the planet. The Future Triumph had been ordered to reassume its recharge position and support the other Nova Cat vessels if there was unexpected trouble.
“Jump Radiation signature!†the sensor operator announced on the starboard side of the bridge deep inside the Melissa Davion.
“Jump Radiation signature!†the port side operator announced almost at the same time.
“Vessel exiting the star’s corona, a Fredasa-class Corvette†another member of the bridge crew announced. As two vessels entered the system near the Melissa Davion, the vessel shuddered slightly as one of the vessels entered closer than normally accepted.
“That one was right on top of us!â€
“Seems damn hostile to me†Victoria Napier said looking at Yvonne who remained totally passive.
“If we launch your ships could get caught in their jump wake correct?â€
“Yes†Napier surrendered the Duchess who wasn’t even a member of the military had pointed out a basic fact of interstellar space travel, two vessels close together during a jump was deadly to everything surrounding including both vessels involved.
“What are the vessel’s out there?†Yvonne asked. As the radiation cleared already she knew there was a Fredasa, one of the Clan’s smallest vessels.
“A pair of Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, each weights twenty thousand tons less than us, we could destroy them at range but at this close…†Victoria said quietly “one of them could kill us easy. And between them they carry far more fighters and DropShips than we could ever hope to launch.â€
“So if we could launch you would you?†Yvonne asked moving closer to Napier who shook her head, the Melissa was brand-new her crew inexperienced, she would not throw her people’s lives away.
“Then let’s see what the Nova Cat’s are saying.†Yvonne said they crew activated the communication systems on the Melissa’s bridge the message the Nova Cat’s were playing was played to the bridge.
“This is Star Colonel Canin Rosse, commander of the Watch forces in this system and guardian of the Tortuga system,†Yvonne smiled just the man she wanted to see, “under the authority given to me by the Khan’s of Clan Nova Cat I am authorised to seize your vessel and your crew.†He said Victoria looked at Yvonne who continued to remain as passive as possible, ‘perhaps the Nova Cats are not so friendly’ she thought quietly. “However, we have received your message and the WarShips Bond and Blood Oath will escort you to Tortuga. You are authorised to fly one squadron of fighters or a DropShip during the journey, just to keep the air jocks happy, however I must ask you keep your weapons un-powered.†On the screens the two WarShips had moved into escort positions, Yvonne noticed no DropShips on either vessel however fighters were launching from both Heavy Cruisers. “Authorize on same channel and I will see you on Tortuga.†Canin continued Yvonne nodded to Victoria who carried out the order the three vessels began the slow burn to Tortuga. The Fredasa moved into a higher orbit of the star but remained in position, the two Aegises were overkill at this range already.
Nova Cat Watch Base
Raider‘s Roost, Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
7th July 3062
The burn in system to Tortuga was uneventful the Melissa Davion moved into orbit of the planet while the two Nova Cat Aegis remained in a higher orbit, now the Federated Suns cruiser was trapped, even if the Avalon wanted to leave now it would have to break orbit before even trying to activate its jump drive, a manoeuvre that would be suicide at the moment. Leaving was not high on the agenda however, from the Melissa Davion’s ventral hull a single Excalibur-class DropShip detached and began descending towards the planet surface with an entire squadron of six Federated Suns Aerospace fighters escorting.
Once inside the planet’s atmosphere they were joined by ten Nova Cat OmniFighters, all weighing seventy-five tons or more, below one hundred metres the Federated Suns fighters were instructed to break off and return to the Melissa Davion while the Nova Cat Fighters broke off just after them also returning to their vessels in orbit.
On the ground the DropShip was met by several groups of ground forces, a pair of Federated Suns OmniMechs, a fifty-five ton Men Shen and a ninety ton Sunder, exited first providing security for the DropShip. Although painted in Federated Suns colours these Mechs were actually of Capellan and Draconis Combine origin, the Men Shen captured in a raid on the Capellan Confederation, the Draconis Combine Sunder built under licence in the Federated Suns, they were still powerful designs that could provide basic protection if trouble erupted although considering the Nova Cat‘s Naval support options any trouble or resistance would be short lived. Yvonne’s Armoured Limousine exited the Excalibur’s lower cargo bay next and stopped just ahead of the two guarding OmniMechs waiting for the next pair of escort Mechs.
The first of the second pair of Mechs was a seventy-five ton P1 Perseus from the Free Worlds League, the OmniMech was the only one owned by the AFFS and by order of the First Prince had been added to this detail, the next Mech to exit the DropShip was another OmniMech this time a Lyran-built ninety ton Hauptmann, one of the most hardy and effective Inner Sphere OmniMechs. Normally that would be the end of it however the AFFS command had one last surprise for the Nova Cats. The fifth OmniMech was brand-new and had never seen real combat, this actual Mech was the first of its type to leave the Kathil Assembly Lines in the Capellan March, and was the Federated Suns first and so far only home-grown OmniMech an eighty-five ton Templar.
Sitting there the Federated Suns reinforced Lance surrounded Yvonne’s Limo protectively as the Nova Cats stood waiting for orders. An unknown Clan OmniMech moved forward and the communication system in all the Federated Suns units crackled to life “I am Star Colonel Canin Rosse, please follow me, be warned there is over a cluster of Nova Cats at this facility and more units in the city.†He said the first Nova Cats moved out an OmniMech, four OmniVehicles and two points of Elementals. Next was the five Federated Suns OmniMechs and the Yvonne’s car in the centre. Canin Rosse’s Mech moved silently along side it as did two vehicles on either side, behind them were two Armoured Personnel Carriers. Rounding out the convoy was another Mech, four armoured vehicles and two more APCs.
As the moved through the city Yvonne looked out the windows at the former pirate city, Ross McKinnon’s report had placed only around five hundred civilians in the city however Yvonne could see significantly more population moving around and engineering teams working on several of the buildings, obviously the Nova Cats had not abandoned the city completely as they had when the Fox’s Teeth were held here.
Yvonne also looked at Canin’s Mech during the journey, although not a member of the military she had seen pictures of many Clan Mechs and this one looked like none she had ever seen before. The Mech was the same as most others built around a humanoid body with two legs and two arms. It looked like a heavy or assault Mech from it’s size and from the thickness of the armour and it easily kept pace with the convoy as they moved at roughly fifty kilometres per hour. Yvonne suspected that the Nova Cats had developed this design here and that it was one of a new breed of Clan OmniMechs and made a point to ask the Star Colonel more about the design if negotiations went well.
They arrived at the base within about thirty minutes and although some of the Nova Cats remained on guard duty, mostly Elementals in Battle Armour of various types, most of the Nova Cats moved to a massive Mechbay that looked quite new and out of place in the generally old base. The Fox’s Teeth had reported the Nova Cats had made little effort to repair the base and were still using the former pirate bases as their own. Yvonne stepped out of her limousine, she was dressed in a cream one piece jumpsuit with her long blonde-brown hair tied up in a bun, as soon as she stepped clear of the vehicle Yvonne could feel the warm, dry Tortuga air wrap her and the sun quickly made her began to sweat. The five guarding OmniMechs remained standing guarding their torso’s in constant movement watching the area for potential threats. A female Nova Cat officer flanked by two Elementals approached “I will show you to the command bunker.†She said abruptly, Yvonne could not tell if she was just like that all the time or if she did not care.
“What of the Mechs? I could be here a while.†Yvonne said hopefully, the woman made a strange face then turned to one of the Elementals.
“Once you are comfortable the MechWarriors will be taken to a more comfortable waiting place.†The Nova Cat officer said Yvonne nodded, there was little point arguing the Nova Cats out numbered the Federated Suns troops by quite a bit, Yvonne signalled she was ready to follow. The Nova Cat officer moved off without another word and Yvonne followed the two Nova Cats smartly turned as Yvonne passed and followed at a distance.
“I noticed there was quite a lot of work going on, the last time any of our people were here the city was abandoned.â€
“Aff, there are more here now.†Was all the woman said she did not look interested but Yvonne did not let it go that easily.
“I’m Yvonne Steiner-Davion, Duchess of New Avalon.†She said extending a hand in offer of a hand-shake.
“I am Star Commander Jennifer, nice to meet you Yvonne.†The Nova Cat said, Yvonne noted that she had no Bloodname but then she was also very young, by Yvonne’s guess work Jennifer looked like she was still a teenager, it was also evident that the Nova Cats had no respect for her name or title.
“I hope you’re not offended but can I ask how old are you? You look very young to be a warrior.
“Neg, I am not offended, the only thing that offends me, other than you not being a bondsman to our Clan, is your use of Contractions. Speak using full words and speak plainly to gain our respect. I am eighteen years old in two months.†Jennifer said, she was only seventeen years old and already drafted into the military! Yvonne did not know if that was Clan custom or if the Nova Cats were desperate for troops to recruit teenagers into their forces. The continued to walk the entering a large office the two Elementals remained outside as the two women walked in. “Star Colonel Rosse will be in soon, if you need anything ask the guards, other than that make yourself comfortable.†Jennifer said walking out of the room leaving Yvonne alone as the doors closed.
Yvonne had a look around the spacious office it was a very plain sight the only two things that stood out was the Clan Nova Cat insignia on a flag on one side of the centre window and a large cartoon character picture on the other side inside an expensive looking wooden frame. The cartoon was badly faded but it appeared to be a yellow character with some sort of waist coat and a hat, there was a metal plate on the bottom of the fame which was slightly dirty. Yvonne began cleaning the plate revealing the name as the side door of the office opened Yvonne continued to clean the plate revealing two words, ‘Top-cat,’ she assumed it was the character’s name.
Turning around satisfied she had cleaned it as much as she could she saw the half naked Star Colonel Canin Rosse wriggle into a black shirt, although slightly embarrassed she was still seeing him dress Yvonne did notice that the Nova Cat Star Colonel was well muscled and had multiple scars on his body despite his young age. “Now where were we?†Canin asked sitting down on the chair behind the desk as if nothing had happened since their last encounter. Yvonne took the seat opposite “it is good to see you again Regent Yvonne.†Canin said showing he had remembered him.
“It’s…†she began then caught herself “it is just Yvonne now, Star Colonel, Victor returned safe and well from the Refusal War in Clan Space.†She said opening the door for him to use her first name as he had done so when they were together last.
“I heard, and please it is Canin while we are alone.†He said taking up her offer with his own. “You have arrived with something far more impressive this time than we encountered in the New Avalon system, you have come far.â€
“The Avalon was in production before you arrived, if you had come to New Avalon a couple of months later there would have been three of them as well as the other vessels.†She said then realised she had just given him some tactical information without receiving anything in return, this could be a long costly day.
“Well we would have arrived in more force if that was the case, a few of our nine Aegis should have been sufficient.†He said quietly thinking, Yvonne involuntarily smiled he had given her something in return, the Nova Cats were being friendly or Canin was as bad at negotiating as she was. If the Nova Cats did have nine Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers they had little to fear from the Federated Suns three Avalons she caught herself a moment later the Nova Cats had given them a Battleship.
'Given!' she thought why would they ever have anything to fear from three cruisers if they were willing to give away a Battleship? She had to remind herself that although the Nova Cats were playing nice they were as powerful as any other major Clan and any of the Successor States and could cause a lot of damage to the Federated Suns. “So down to the reason for your visit. ‘peace and trade’ I believe your message said. We have peace established and now you want trade? This is quite a relationship we are developing.†He said smiling.
“Well first we wanted to give you something in return for your gift last time.†She said referring to the Thunderchild.
“Unnecessary, we could not utilise it so it was an open trade. The only thing we could do with it is destroy it or break it down for parts and the Clans hate waste.â€
“Well our gift is similar. On board my DropShip we have twenty-four ProtoMechs developed by Clan Smoke Jaguar on Huntress. My brother was able to secure them from the SLDF when he arrived in Clan Space and was able to secure the ProtoMech pilots as well. We have been unable to reverse-engineer them like we have other Clan technologies and the it is unlikely the pilots would ever be accepted in the Federated Suns so we turn them and their bond oath over to the Nova Cats and hope that you can use them and their technology.†She said Yvonne personally liked the symmetry the Nova Cats did not have the resources to renovate the Thunderchild so they gave it to the Federated Suns the Federated Suns could not use the ProtoMech technology so they had given most of it away, two ProtoMechs remained on New Avalon at NAIS as the scientists there tried to make sense of them and a way to counter them before the next Clan push against Inner Sphere holdings.
“Thank you, that is quite a gift.†Canin said, he was impressed that these Inner Sphere barbarians would give anyone anything especially a people they considered to be mortal enemies of the Inner Sphere, the Nova Cats had never expected something to be given as payment for the Thunderchild and had given it away lessen the load on the Nova Cat‘s limited resources, the Tortuga worlds had more resources than the Clan Homeworld Territories but it was still limited compared to the size of the Nova Cat‘s ever growing population. "I am sure the former Smoke Jaguars will be very pleased to be in Clan Nova Cat's care" he said smirking but not expanding, Yvonne wondered what she had just dropped those warriors into.
“I have one other gift for you, Caninâ€
“Something else?†Canin asked surprised as if ProtoMechs was not enough.
“It is personnel, from Major Ross McKinnon and Captain Rachel Montgomery.†Yvonne said handing Canin a small note, Canin was happy to hear they had been treated well and been promoted upon returning to the Federated Suns. He opened the note which said:
‘Star Colonel Canin Rosse, Clan Nova Cat Watch Cluster
You are cordially invited, with your unit, to attend the formal wedding reception of
Major Ross McKinnon, Fox’s Teeth Company, Third Crucis Lancers RCT
And
Captain Rachel Montgomery, Department of Military Intelligence, MI6 Branch
To be held at an unset time and location
We really hope you can attend, we would not be together without you.’
The Nova Cat Star Colonel fingered the not then looked to Yvonne slightly stunned “I was their captor not a guest for their wedding.†He said Yvonne nodded it was probably the biggest case of Stockholm Syndrome in history, the entire Fox’s Teeth and Rabid Fox detachment believed the Nova Cats could do no wrong.
“I would agree but Ross McKinnon went directly to the First Prince and was quite forward with his wishes. The wedding will likely be on New Avalon either at the end of this year or near the beginning of the next.â€
“New Avalon? How am I supposed to make the wedding on New Avalon, it is the capital of a foreign realm, your realm.â€
“You reached the capital of a foreign realm quite easily before.†Yvonne said it felt strange speaking of the Federated Suns in such a way, and she did not feel comfortable pointing out how easily the Nova Cats had slipped in before. “However I may have a way that allows you and your unit to be there officially.†Canin looked interested “the second reason for my visit. The Federated Suns would like to officially invite a detachment from Clan Nova Cat within our borders. You would be allowed to train against any unit in the AFFS you wished, have full access to our training facilities and be able to operate covertly within AFFS units involved in combat against the Federated Suns enemies in live-fire real combat.†Canin blinked shocked, this had not been expected, the Khan had guessed the Federated Suns would be looking for trade of Clan OmniMechs or Battle Armour for the latest Inner Sphere technology nothing like this had ever come up.
“And what would we have to pay for this?â€
“The services of three Nova Cat WarShips for non-combat guard duty of the three Federated Suns WarShip yards.†She noticed Canin’s confusion “you heard of the nuclear attack against New Syrtis JumpShip yards?†Canin nodded “we are afraid of similar attacks. For additional security for one year we would fully support your WarShips and give them full access to our facilities if needed as well as tours of any Federated Suns WarShip they wanted.†Canin was shocked, the Federated Suns really wanted the use of the Nova Cat’s WarShip fleet and for what could be a non-combat mission they were willing to give a lot back to the Nova Cats. To Canin it was a good deal however he would contact the Khan before giving Yvonne an answer.
“I think I must confer with New Barcella before I can say anymore. I will have a tech take you and your MechWarriors on a tour of the facilities we have here on Tortuga, and I will catch up with you in an hour.†Yvonne nodded and left the room by the main exit Canin activated the laser communication system with one of the orbiting WarShips which in turn would contact New Barcella and the Khan.
After almost two hours of talking to the Khan on New Barcella Canin had gone looking for the Federated Suns group finding them in the MechWarrior Virtual Centre, the five Federated Suns MechWarriors were in five of the pods while Five Nova Cat MechWarriors faced them Yvonne was standing in the observation booth. Watching from the entrance of the room Canin was surprised to see her there instead of in a pod with the troops then realised he had never seen her in a Mech or even a combat vehicle. Walking into the booth Canin browsed the monitors seeing that the techs had loaded the statistics of the five OmniMechs the Federated Suns troopers had taken with them into the machines, the five Inner Sphere OmniMechs were facing five Nova Cat Omnis including one pilot using a Mech of the same type as Canin’s new ride. “Who is winning?†He murmured looking at the screens within minutes he could tell that although it was close the Nova Cat warriors were winning having already taken down two Federated Sun Mechs and lost none of their own, he was pleased to see that both sides were adhering to traditional Clan duelling rules.
“They are both fighting well, but I believe your men are winning today.†She said not looking from the screens, she was constantly looking from one screen to another keeping in touch with the ever changing situation.
“Not tempted to suit up yourself, Duchess?†Canin asked, he was curious and it opened the door.
“I have never formally trained as a MechWarrior, wouldn’t…†she corrected herself again “I would not know where to start. In time of war I am afraid to say I would be quite useless.†Canin was impressed that she was catching on so quickly and making an effort. When the Fox’s Teeth had been here none had tried to fit in with the Nova Cats as much as Yvonne was.
“I am sure that is not true. Being a MechWarrior is simple, tell me did you ever play MechWarrior games when you were younger?â€
“Yes, with my brothers, I was not very good neither was Katherine†she said, when they had been very young they had spent sometime together as a real family then as they grew up they travelled around the Federated Commonwealth going to different schools and not seeing each other for months maybe even years Yvonne missed those times and wondered if her parents had realised that their separation would end up destroying the Federated Commonwealth as they all had plans of their own and one of them was willing to sacrifice all the others to get what she wanted.
“Well just because you were not very good then does not mean you could not be a MechWarrior now.†Canin said “there is an auxiliary training room in the other side of the base, we could…†his voice trailed off as he noticed Yvonne’s interest growing “I can inform the techs here to bring the MechWarriors to us when you are done.â€
“I would prefer if we met them away from a simulator. I am not sure it would do my image any favours if they saw that the first time I was in a real Mech simulator was in on a Clan base in Clan territory.â€
“Fine with me, I will have them taken to the mess where we will meet them later before continuing negotiations.†He said offering her his hand leading her from the room, Yvonne wrapped her arms around his as they walked. “Are you cold?†He asked quietly as they walked through the near abandoned halls of the Nova Cat base.
“A little†she said in but a whisper Canin reacted by removing his black jacket and wrapping it around her, Yvonne continued to put the jacket on fully as they walked and Canin made no complaint or effort to stop her, the jacket's material seemed to be some sort of leather but was very warm and extremely comfortable to wear, not at all how she expected it to feel. If the Federated Suns troopers would not think much of her in a Clan simulator then what would they think of her in a Nova Cat uniform? Canin wondered silently as the entered the next room, there were no simulators just Mechs. “What is this?†She demanded suddenly feeling vulnerable alone with the Nova Cat Warrior.
“Best way to learn is from up there.†Canin said pointing up to a nearby eighty-five ton Crockett Yvonne had seen the same type of Mech in Federated Suns and Lyran Alliance colleges for years.
“I have never spent a minute in a real Mech simulator let alone a real Mech, how can I pilot a Mech just like that.â€
“Have faith and believe that you can do it.†Canin said holding both her hands in his.
“But…†she said softly
“Trust me, you can do it.†He said softly she nodded, she would at least try. “Good, now we need to get you stripped.â€
“Excuse me!†Yvonne said surprised grabbing Canin‘s black jacket closer to her, she hadn’t expected him to go that quickly to get her naked.
“What you have on is good for being outside but inside a Mech cockpit is like being in a furnace, the less you have on the better. Trust me†he said quietly Yvonne nodded so Canin led her over to the changing and shower area which was thankfully empty. Yvonne disappeared behind a screen.
“What should I keep on?†Yvonne’s muffled voice asked.
“Underwear and or a light top, then we will get you into a coolant suit.†Moments later Yvonne emerged wearing only her underwear Canin was taken aback, she was gorgeous, even though he had seen naked women his entire life Yvonne looked stunning and something to behold and admire.
“Yeah, deal with the heat right and put on a show.†She said quietly Canin snapped out of it.
“Sorry, Duchess, but you look great.†He stammered Yvonne smiled embarrassed, she hadn’t expected such a straight answer. “Here put this on†he said giving her an Advanced Clan Coolant suit, the suit was made up of dozens of tubes that circled the suit around the chest and down the arms. Yvonne struggled into the suit.
“I can not believe I’m doing this.†She managed as she dressed, Canin joined her behind the screens and quickly removed almost all his clothes dressing just a pair of shorts and a suit similar to her own one.
“Trust me, you will be fine.†He said leading her over to the Crockett a small two man lift rose until it was alongside the Crockett’s cockpit which opened as soon as they were close.
“Oh my lord!†She exclaimed looking into the cramped cockpit and all the controls, then she noticed the Mech had been modified with a second seat in behind, the second seat had almost the exact same controls as the front controls. “You are coming with me?†She asked relieved Canin nodded, he would get her started but would do little else once she was started.
“Climb in†Canin instructed Yvonne climbed onto the Crockett and squeezed into the cockpit Canin followed her inside, with the two of them there it was very cramped even with the second console “you comfortable, anything rubbing uncomfortably?†Canin asked Yvonne shook her head “good I am going to tighten these harnesses, they will be hard but they have to be combat can throw you around a bit.†Yvonne nodded nervously Canin climbed into the front of the cockpit resting on the controls right in front of her. Half standing he reached over Yvonne and pulled the back belts and pulled them down her front locking them into a central lock between her legs. Canin then reached around the sides and locked the two side ones as well. “How is that?†He asked looking at her Yvonne tried to move and it was tight but she still had some movement and both her arms and legs were free to reach the controls “good†Canin said reaching down to her side pulling up a group of three tubes “this is the coolant feed, I am going to attach them now.†He said showing her as he screwed them onto her suit and locked them. “Now, when I switch this on you are going to feel a chill that will run the length of your body, it will be like nothing you have ever felt before but it will pass.†He said activating the coolant feed, coolant fluid ran into the suit that circled Yvonne’s body, as it ran the course of her body Yvonne reached out and snagged Canin’s hand “are you okay?†He asked Yvonne nodded after a few seconds as she began to adjust to the coolness of the fluid “trust me you won’t be cold for long.†He said she released his hand as he brought down the last part of the puzzle a Light Clan Neuralhelmet, Yvonne had seen some inner sphere models which were two or three times the size. “This needs time to set to your brain patterns, the more still you are the quicker it will be†he said lowering it onto her head and connecting the under chin strap, he then raised the visor so there was nothing in front of her eyes, if she had to eject this would close and protect her eyes from the ejection blast. “I am going to be in the back connecting up†he said passing by her into the rear chair, a seasoned veteran MechWarrior Canin was connected up in less than two minutes, he instantly brought the Mech’s Fusion power plant up to eighty percent power and the cockpit was filled with heat “How is that?†He asked.
“I can see why you need the suit.†Yvonne said back activating the helmet comm. instead of shouting like many rookie pilots. This Mech had been captured by Kappa Galaxy a couple of months before an because of the general Clan disdain for multiple cockpit Mechs it had ended up here with the Watch, two undesirable elements together, Canin had never been in a multiple Mech in his life so this was completely new to him as well. There was a constant tone from Yvonne’s neuralhelmet informing them that she was connected to the Mech Canin felt a new pull to the controls as the Mech tried to decide who was in command.
“Ready?â€
“No†Yvonne said honestly “but let’s go for it.†She said
“Alright I have control†he said brining the fusion engine up to one hundred percent and standing the Crockett up fully away from the Mechbay wall. The Mech took its first steps as a Clan Mech as Canin carefully guided the Mech clear of the gantries and out of the building, because Yvonne was in front he had to use monitors that fed images from cameras placed around the Mech.
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Firing Range Beta
Nova Cat Watch Base, Tortuga
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
7th July 3062
Ten minutes later they were on the Mech exercise yards, the rest of the Nova Cats were on other duties today so the range was completely abandoned “ready for control?†Canin asked Yvonne nodded then shakily answered.
“Yes, I’m ready.†Canin keyed in Yvonne’s brain pattern to the Crockett’s controls the Mech rocked slightly as the gyroscope adjusted to a new pilot.
“You can take the controls now†Canin said releasing his joystick Yvonne took her own set of controls “now the legs have been locked in position so we are going to get used to torso movement first.†Canin said as Yvonne pushed the stick forward carefully the Crockett’s torso tipped downwards so they were looking at the floor then pulled it backwards so they were looking into the sky. She then turned the stick left, the Crockett twisted left slightly then the entire torso section of the Crockett twisted left.
“Wow, did I do that?†Yvonne asked turning the stick back then to the right the same happened to the right “cool†Yvonne said quietly moving the Mech’s torso around.
“Now, we will add in some movement the accelerator on your left hand side, control to you†Canin said Yvonne reached for the T-shaped accelerator and moved it forward the Crockett lurched forward, the BattleMech groaned as it moved but unlike the first step of many MechWarrior in simulators or real Mechs Yvonne kept the Mech standing quickly she accelerated the Mech forward into a thirty kilometre per hour walk. Without prompting Yvonne twisted the Mech’s torso left then right then back to centre in one fluid motion.
“Nicely done†Canin said, the Mech was slightly wobbly but felt stable enough “the foot pedals…†he began as Yvonne pushed the right pedal turning the Crockett right she then pushed down on the left pedal turning the Mech back to centre. “You sure you have never been in a Mech before.â€
“Never, but it feels great.†Yvonne said, she felt so powerful almost like she could go anywhere and do anything she was beginning to understand the attraction to being a MechWarrior. Now she was accelerating the Mech closer to its top speed and constantly turning the Mech from left to right and twisting the Mech’s torso. Canin was feeling a little sick, he wasn’t used to not being in charge of the Mech he was riding in.
“Well I think you have mastered the basic controls, straighten the Mech out then hit both foot pedals with a sing jolt then hold it for a couple of seconds.†Canin said Yvonne did as she was told and activated the Mech’s three feet and torso jump jets. The eighty-five ton Mech soared into the sky and Yvonne screamed with surprise releasing the stick Canin grabbed his controls and kept the Mech from tumbling. “Grab the controls! You have to keep it straight and under control or it won’t be nice landing!†The jump jets cut out and the Mech began to fall Yvonne grabbed her stick and with some help from Canin brought the Mech into a half controlled landing, the eighty-five ton giant stumbled as it landed but the combined efforts of them both kept the Mech standing.
“When did it get so hot in here?†Yvonne asked she was sweating nearly non-stop as she slowed the Mech to a walk, soon the Mech’s double heat sinks brought the Mech back under control.
“Running and using the Jump Jets will heat the Mech up gradually over time, most of the time the heat sinks can cope with it but sometimes you don’t notice the heat has risen until it is unbearable. You want to try some weapons testing as well?â€
“Can we?†She asked surprised, Canin released the sticks again an the Mech was moving again fully under Yvonne’s control, for someone who claimed to have never piloted a Mech she was doing an amazing job, Canin wasn’t very surprised it just proved the Nova Cat belief in visions was the correct belief.
“Once again a vision is proven right†he said quietly.
“What was that about right?†Yvonne asked turning the Mech right towards the weapons test range.
“I said turn right, but you seem to have found the range, throttle us to a stop. We will begin weapons testing from a stop for a start.†He said, Yvonne quickly slowed the Mech to a standstill. “Weapons controls are on your right hand side, the joystick.†Yvonne grabbed the other stick “now ever Mech can be configured differently on how to use its weapons. This one was set up as a training Mech so every weapon is on a single trigger, or TIC (Target-Interlock-Control). The one under your index finger controls the main guns, the top buttons control your secondary weapons. If your unhappy with the set up a tech can change them before each mission, or you can change them during combat if you are experienced enough.†He said they were leaving them for now because Canin had no idea how to change this Mech’s weapons firing controls. If this was a Timber Wolf or Nova Cat, let alone his new state-of the-art Dragon Cat, he could have changed the weapons quickly and easily but this Crockett was ancient.
“So what am I firing at?†Yvonne asked, the range has several targets of various size, shape and range.
“Fire at your discretion, one at a time.†He said captioning her against an alpha strike, one of the most effective by dangerous manoeuvre a MechWarrior could do, it involved firing everything a BattleMech had at once.
“Firing One†she said pulling the Mech’s first TIC trigger firing the Extended-Range Laser in the right arm at the nearest target
which she missed by a fraction. “Damn it†she cried out aloud. Instead of waiting for the laser to recharge she activated the second TIC triggering the left arm Large Pulse Laser, this weapon was heavier and had less range but made up for it by being a far more accurate weapon and the target disintegrated.
“Nice shot, next target†Canin said watching the heat bar raise dramatically following the discharge of both lasers.
“Sure†Yvonne breathed triggering the next TIC on top of the joystick a flight of six Short Range Missiles shot out of the tubes and guided by an advanced fire control system the missiles buried themselves in the target and gutted it. Heat was becoming an issue now and the Mech was beginning to sag and overheat Canin watched the override, of it got much closer to the redline he would shut the Mech down. “Next on our list today†Yvonne said there was little humour in her voice as she triggered the next TIC launching ten Long Range Missiles again they were guided by an advanced fire control but they sailed past their target. Yvonne was about to fire the next trigger but Canin overrode her and the Mech shut down. “What… happened?†She asked looking back in the cockpit as all the controls locked up and the Mech shut down.
“Overheat, this Mech is designed to train a MechWarrior how to use different weapons and control their firing, you didn’t control you heat and this happened.†He said smiling, he could see Yvonne was not amused, “as a trainer I had to show you what can happen in combat.†He said the cockpit was cooler now and the Crockett came back to life. “Next targets and weapons.†He said the first weapon used was a LB 5-X- class medium autocannon firing cluster munitions, although using cluster munitions was more accurate it generally did less damage, Yvonne fired off the shot and despite it being a long range shot the cluster shot went straight through the target. “Impressive.†Canin muttered just loud enough for her to hear, he was impressed. The next shot was not so impressive the Mech’s last ranged weapon an Ultra class-5 autocannon similar to the other weapon but if fired faster. Again it was a long range shot but hittable. The double firing autocannon went well wide however. Yvonne pulled the last trigger and there was a large ‘bang!’ but nothing happened so she pulled the trigger again another large ‘bang.’
“A malfunction?†She asked
“Neg, you just activated the Anti-Personnel Pods on the legs, they are this Mech’s point blank defence against attacking infantry and if we were under attack by infantry then you would have just killed a platoons worth. I personally do not like them and would prefer some machine guns, but we have no choice with this Mech.â€
“Ready to put some movement into your firing?†He asked.
“I don’t think so, Star Colonel†she said her tone had changed, it seemed more subdued “I think I am ready to go back now†she said without another word she turned the Mech around and walked it back to the base. Lowered from the Mech she went over to the changing area had a very fast shower dressed and left before Canin had finished shutting down the Mech.
Canin Rosse’s Office
Nova Cat Watch Base, Tortuga
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
7th July 3062
After finishing shutting down the Mech Canin pulled on his uniform, he noticed his jacket was still missing but walked back to his office not bothering to look for it. Reaching the office he found the door slightly ajar and entered more carefully than normal, sitting on the guest chair was Yvonne staring into the space in front of her, she was still wearing his jacket. Canin returned to his chair in front of her “so Star Colonel, what did your Khan have to say?†She asked immediately slipping into the conversation they had been in before the trip in the Crockett.
“Yvonne…â€
“Please, Star Colonel, these are critical negotiations, I would appreciate it if we kept this formal.†She said leaning forward her hands rubbing together nervously. Canin stood up but Yvonne failed to follow him and only noticed he had moved when he pushed the desk in front of her out of the way and leaned on it.
“Yvonne, what is wrong?†He asked taking her hands in his, the Duchess grabbed them tightly.
“I just realised…†she struggled out, Canin slipped off the desk and with a gentle kick made room for him to kneel in front of her. “I just realised when you said you just killed a platoon of men that, that was what we were doing. Training to kill.†She said “I’ve never even thought of killing someone before and there I was enjoying it!â€
“There is nothing wrong with that.†Canin said quietly he noticed Yvonne’s horrified look “what I mean is that you were training to kill, you are totally right, but you were also training to stay alive. I am not saying that you should go out there and kill everyone who does not agree with you or the Federated Suns, because then I could be on that list†he said that brought a smile to her lips. “But what I am saying is that it is alright to train to defend yourself, your people and your friends. And if you ever need to you can, you proved that today.†That seemed to cheer her up slightly.
“But you were there as well…â€
“The only bit I helped on was the jump, the rest was all you, you did it Yvonne and for someone who has never controlled a Mech before you did very well and I am very proud of you anyone would be.†He said smiling.
“I just realised…†she said quietly “we really stink!†She said struggling to keep a straight face both burst into laughter and Yvonne dropped to her knees and hugged Canin, who didn’t know what to do for a start then decided just to copy her. “Thank you.†She whispered into his ear as they knelt there.
“It was my pleasure.†Canin said quietly “now if you want to clean up properly there is a shower in the next room we can use.†Yvonne pulled away suddenly standing, Canin wondered if he had said the wrong thing.
“Are you suggesting we share a shower?†She asked her voice was full of shock, Canin hadn’t meant they use it at the same time and tried to explain.
“No, I meant you could use it then I would, then we could get back to this.†He said spreading his arms standing to meet her. “I would never suggest we share a shower…†he never got to finish as Yvonne moved closer.
“But I would†she whispered leaning into kiss him passionately, they stood there for a few minutes locked in embrace but otherwise not moving, for a start Canin barely moved with the kiss then as Yvonne didn‘t stop he got into it and wrapped his arms around her. Then they struggled through to the shower and got cleaned up and got to know each other a little more closely and personally.
An hour later Leftenant Daniel ‘Frank’ Coots arrived at the office “Duchess, sorry for the interruption, I just wanted to see things were alright. You have been gone a while.â€
“I am quite well Leftenant. The negotiations are almost complete, I will contact the Prince to confirm things but assuming there are no problems we will be leaving in a couple of hours. When the DropShip crew get here please have them look at our new DropShip and have your MechWarriors bring the Nova Cats up to speed with your Mechs.â€
“Our Mechs?â€
“As part of the negotiations I have traded your OmniMechs for Clan models. Star Colonel Rosse has informed his people of the transfer and five Nova Cat OmniMechs are on their way as replacements and we will be taking one last Mech with us.†Yvonne said, the Leftenant was a little shocked to say the least but nodded and left without another word. First Prince Victor said he agreed to the terms, the Nova Cats would deploy four clusters in the Federated Suns along with their three WarShips in return the Federated Suns got the services of the Nova Cat WarShips for one year although if the Nova Cat vessels were needed to defend the Nova Cat’s Den the Federated Suns would not stand in their way.
An hour later the DropShip crew arrived and transferred to a Nova Cat Lion-class DropShip on board they loaded a sixty ton Mad Dog, a fifty ton Huntsman, Canin’s old seventy-five ton Timber Wolf, forty-five ton a Shadow Cat and a factory-new seventy ton Nova Cat. The last Mech to be loaded was the Crockett Yvonne had piloted although neither Canin nor Yvonne commented on the Mech as it was loaded aboard the DropShip. When all the Federated Suns personnel were aboard leaving only Yvonne and Canin together they locked eyes for a moment. “Well Star Colonel, I will see you soon?†She asked smiling.
“Within the month my Cluster will enter the Federated Suns with the first WarShip, the rest will follow presently.†He said.
“Three months to New Avalon then?†she asked.
“Aff†Canin said doing the math quickly, he was not a spacer but got the general principle behind space travel the jumps were instantaneous but then they had recharge times so it would probably take about three weeks for them to make it to the Federated Suns capital system.
“Then I will see you then.†She said jabbing him in the stomach with her hand. She then realised she was still wearing his Nova Cat uniform jacket, none of the Federated Suns troopers had mentioned it and she realised she was entirely comfortable in it. Yvonne began to take it off, the jacket was Canin‘s and the Nova Cat‘s property.
“Keep it, you look better in it and out of it than I do anyway.†Canin said stepping backwards smiling, Yvonne burst into laughter “three months†he said holding up three fingers.
“Three Months†she whispered copying the movement as she walked up the ramp they had started something here only time would tell how far it would go.
-
Cyclops Incorporated, Skye
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
12th July 3062
In the early hours of the Twelfth Mechs and vehicles painted in the colours of the Fifteenth Dieron Regulars attacked the Lyran Alliance world of Skye, capital world of the Skye Province, although they did little damage to the defending First Skye Jaegers the DCMS troops were able to raid several warehouses belonging to Cyclops Incorporated and escape the system before the Skye Jaegers could mount an effective defence. Bloodied, shamed and demanding vengeance the Skye Jaegers packed up their equipment and headed for the Fifteenth’s Headquarters and Base World Ko, a Lyran World the Draconis Combine holds in auspices of the SLDF. The DCMS reported that none of their forces had been involved but the Skye Jaegers could not be stopped and the Skye Authorities made no attempt to stop them.
Reception Hall
Saint Marinus House, Zaniah
Freedom Province, Lyran Alliance
21st July 3062
Instead of relying on Omiko Kurita or anyone else Isis had chosen Civilian transport from Luthien to Zaniah, it had been quite an adventure but Isis felt good about the journey and arriving at Saint Marinus House she felt a real sense of achievement. She had read many stories about the mountain top House, it was apparently a quiet reflective place where anyone from any place in the Inner Sphere or beyond could come and try to clear their head. Isis felt strange standing in the reception hall less than two jumps away she would have been back in the Free Worlds League for the first time in nearly six years but instead of going home and grovelling to her father, who cared nothing for her, she had come here where ‘People who were Something became Nothing until they learned to be Someone.’ She did not really understand it but looking around she could see the Chinese and Tibetan influences in the building all the exposed wood and real woollen rugs made the place feel homely a roaring fire kept the place warm even when someone opened the doors to come in from the snow topped mountain.
One of the Monks, did they call themselves Monks? She didn’t know but would find out until then they were officials she thought silently. One of the Officials came up to her with a steaming cup of tea which he passed onto her “drink, please†he said, his face was hooded and as soon as she took the cup his hands disappeared into the robes “come†he said leading her towards a comfortable wooden bench with red cushions. Isis began to drag her bags, on Luthien she had sold almost all her possessions as they had arrived from Marik and Sian she had decided they were of the past she needed a future. The three bags were all she had in the world “leave them†the man said Isis looked at him then at the bags “they will be taken care of, let go†he said. Isis looked at the bags one last time then released them and moved over to the seat which the man sat on the edge of, Isis sat down beside him and nearly immediately crossed her legs as she had done since she was a child then stopped herself looked at the man who made no motion either way so she crossed her legs anyway. “Why did you come here?â€
“I came…†she started then stopped why was she here to ask someone she had never seen before what the meaning of life was, yeah right “I came here on the advice of an old friend who said this was a place where I could find myself and figure out what I can do with my life.â€
“A friend suggested I come here also†the hooded figure said “when you enter those doors and climb the stairs you leave your life, Isis Marik disappears and Isis comes to the fore, your name and status mean nothing within these walls.â€
“My family name means nothing to me, my status no longer matters†Isis said honestly, her life really did suck.
“Then I welcome you to Saint Marinus House Isis, I am Peter†the man said extending his hand and removing the hood to reveal Peter Steiner-Davion. Third born in the Hanse and Melissa Steiner-Davion’s five children behind Victor and Katherine he shared Victor’s sandy brown hair and Katherine’s piercing blue eyes. She had seen picture of him on the way here in them he always looked alive and angry but this man looked older, wiser and calmer than any picture Isis had ever seen of him.
“Nice to meet you Peter, I am Isis†she said calmly shaking his hand, her life started again here.
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Fifteen Kilometres North Jarlton (Planetary Capital)
Ko, Lyon’s Thumb, Disputed Territory
1st August 3062
Following the attack on Skye by the Fifteenth Dieron Regulars, a DCMS Regiment, the Lyran Regiment First Skye Jaegers attack the Fifteenth’s current base world on Ko, a Lyran world defended by the ‘SLDF Peacekeepers’ the Fifteenth Dieron. Executing a two gravity burn in on the planet the Skye Jaegers do not give the Fifteenth time to muster and in the midst of a massive planet-wide dust storm, something very common on Ko, they land and immediately go on the offensive. During their attacks the Jaegers break the Fifteenth’s defensive lines four times before surrounding and destroying the remains of the DCMS regiment with one final fifth break. After an extensive search of the wreckage the survivors from the Fifteenth are taken prisoner and put into a makeshift prison just outside their former base camp now controlled by the Jaegers.
Unwilling to back the Skye Jaegers commander Colonel Steve Pitcher the Lyran Alliance High Command orders the Skye Jaegers to return to their posting, Pitcher refuses to leave Lyran citizens and citizens of the Isle of Skye to the mercy of the DCMS.
Forbidden City
Sian, Capellan Confederation
6th August 3062
The Trinity Alliance is officially signed between the Capellan Confederation, Magistracy of Canopus and the Taurian Concordat when Protector Grover Sharplen and Magestix Naomi Centrella come to the Forbidden City on Sian, the Capellan Capital. This allows troops from each nation to be based in their allies territory and allows the Capellans to issue orders to their allies troops. The Capellans also have a duty to help the two periphery realms upgrade their military forces.
Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao immediately deploys the Taurian and Canopian troops on hand to the St Ives war front using these troops specifically against the Federated Suns and Star League forces as any Capellan unit attacking them would be inviting war with the Star League. Sun-Tzu feel little wrong with using his periphery warriors as cannon fodder.
Jarlton (Planetary Capital), Ko
Lyon’s Thumb, Disputed Territory
8th August 3062
The Seventeenth Skye Rangers acting under orders from Skye Province Duke Robert Kelswa-Steiner arrives to reinforce the First Skye Jaegers and secure Ko. The DCMS officially lodge a complaint with the Star League Council calling for sanctions against the Lyran Alliance. When there is no response from the Council First Lord and Draconis Combine Coordinator Hohiro Kurita orders his troops serving as peacekeepers in Lyon’s Thumb to secure all the worlds as Draconis Combine holdings. Ko remains in Lyran hands however the seven other worlds of Lyon’s Thumb are seized by the Draconis Combine. Although a heroes to the Skye people Colonel Steve Pitcher and the First Skye Jaegers are seen as pariah by the Lyran High Command although no official charges are ladled against the Regiment or its personnel.
Milos
St Ives Compact
12th August 3062
The Second Royal BattleMech Regiment was recalled from St Ives following the Black May attacks, which claimed most of its command staff, the Fist Royal BattleMech Regiment has now completed the journey from Tukayyid in the Free Rasalhague Republic. Supported by two ComGuard WarShip and two ComStar Divisions all under SLDF banner the SLDF troops under the command of Colonel Archer Christifori immediately attack the Taurians and Canopians and any Star League forces that get in the way.
The SLDF units report a high amount of terrorist activity on each world attributed to the Thuggee Terrorists and pro-Liao Zhanzheng de Guang terrorists. Not trained in anti-terrorist operations Archer Christifori makes a request to Commanding-General Morgan Hasek on Kittery. Morgan sends word to New Canton for a Battalion of the First Battle Armour Corps the former-Stalwart Support troopers are fully trained in anti-terrorist operations. The Pathfinders of the Eridani Light Horse also show their worth in this situation proving General Ariana Winston‘s decision to form the company right.
Solaris VII, Freedom Theatre
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
15th August 3062
A battle between pro-Federated Suns/Anti-Katherine Steiner MechWarrior Michael Searcy and Lyran National/Pro-Katrina Victor Vandergriff erupts into widespread riots across the planet when their battle breaks out of the Steiner Stadium. Quickly battles between random warriors breaks out the damage across Solaris quickly mounts into the millions of C-Bills. ComStar’s local garrison a Level III, roughly a battalion, of the 394th Division of ComStar’s fifth army try to hold the line however even their neutrality can not stop Mech-bands forming across the planet and the riots causing more and more damage. The Lyran Authorities call for support, as Solaris is an open world no house troops are based on the planet so the Lyran Alliance sends Group W a mercenary regiment of long term employ with the Lyran Alliance based on nearby Lyon. Group W are due on planet by the end of August.
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Davion Throne Room
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
21st August 3062
Today was an important day for Victor five days before the Wolf’s Dragoons owned WarShip Beowulf, a Congress-class Frigate, had entered the New Avalon system and detached a DropShip. On board this vessel was Wolf’s Dragoons founder, owner and Supreme Commander Jamie Wolf. Victor had first met him in the 3051 when Wolf’s Dragoons revealed their true identity as former Clansmen and offered the Succession Lords technology and tactical training on Outreach to allow them to better defend against the Clan attacks. During the months long training, Victor had received his Dire Wolf (Prometheus) as a gift from Jamie Wolf in an effort to forward the Federated Commonwealth’s fight against the Clans on a more even footing. Since then Jamie had fought off a civil war within his own ranks to maintain control over the Wolf’s Dragoons and the Outreach system. The Wolf’s Dragoons had not been taking contracts in the past few years rebuilding and upgrading their equipment. Since the Dragoon Civil War, as it was known to outsiders Victor had heard of Jamie travelling off world only twice. Once was to retrieve the Wolf’s Dragoons WarShips which had hidden in the periphery in 3005 when they arrived in the inner sphere and recovered only when a ComGuard Explorer Corps vessel discovered them and the other time was to briefly attend the First Whitting Conference on Tharkad, even then he had not stayed the full time returning to Outreach.
“Supreme Commander Jamie Wolf, Wolf’s Dragoons, Colonel Elizabeth Nicole, Wolf’s Dragoons Epsilon Regiment and Colonel J. Elliot Jamison, Wolf’s Dragoons Zeta Battalion†the Infiltrator Mk II Battle Armoured door guard announced. Victor signalled for them to allow the Dragoons in and noticed Danai had arrived at his side just behind the twin thrones, despite their engagement she refused to sit on the throne until after they were married Victor had allowed this to continue at her wish, he would not force her to take something she thought she did not deserve or was ready for.
Now they watched as the Wolf’s Dragoons Supreme Commander entered proudly although he was past his prime Jamie Wolf was still an impressive man nearing eighty-two years old he still walked like a man twenty years younger and according to rumour still piloted his ancient Archer on a regular basis. “Welcome to New Avalon, Supreme Commander, Colonels†Victor said greeting them from his throne.
“Hello, First Prince, it’s been a while. Nice to see New Avalon is still as beautiful as I remember, despite the new management.†Jamie said, the last time he had been on New Avalon was just after the Fourth Succession War when Hanse Davion had been First Prince. At that time Hanse had just seeded Outreach to the Dragoons setting the Dragoons up for the rest of time. If it had been anyone else Victor would have been offended, some of the Succession Lords might have even had them locked in chains, however with Jamie Wolf he let it slide, at least the Supreme Commander was not addressing him as Vicky-boy as he did when they first met.
“What is your business today? Supreme Commander.†Victor asked raising from the throne and walking down so he was level with the Dragoon’s commander, something Jamie seemed to appreciate. If the Dragoons wanted work all they had to do was walk out their front doors on Outreach and a hundred people would try to sign them up, they did not have to go all the way to New Avalon unless they wanted something.
“Well I wanted to congratulate you and the Duchess there who is trying to hide from an old man.†He said Danai walked out from behind the throne with a smile on her face, like Victor she had an AFFS uniform on but it was devoid of any rank only the SLDF Cameron Star and the Federated Suns Sword-and-Sunburst.
“You lost me, Supreme Commander.†Victor said, neither he nor Danai had made their engagement public knowledge deciding to wait a little while and enjoy this period. Victor also wanted to tell his family when as many were present as possible, although in hindsight Danai having worn an AFFS uniform was asking for more questions.
“Well the ring on the finger is a dead give away.†Jamie said in a hushed voice standing closer to Victor. Neither Victor nor Danai wore their engagement rings, which had been bought in secret from two of New Avalon’s most expensive jewellers.
“We don’t have any rings.†Victor said in an equally hushed voice a small smile creeping onto his face.
“Well then guess its faulty Intel from WolfNet again, have to kick them into shape when I get back.†Jamie said extending his hand to Victor then Danai, the handshake was not an apologetic one but firm and a congratulatory one, somehow WolfNet, the Wolf Dragoons impressive Intelligence Division, had found out about their engagement. Victor trusted Jamie and his officers to keep it quiet until Victor and Danai were ready to reveal the news to the Inner Sphere. “The other… the real reason for my visit actually was not to see you. It was more to see the boys at Federated-Boeing on Galax. You see we heard off the grape vine that they had developed an upgraded version of the Congress-class Frigate and were preparing to present plans to the AFFS High Command to bring the Congress back to the Federated Suns fleets.â€
“I wouldn’t know, they are an independent company.†Victor smiling as he lied, he knew fine that Federated-Boeing had developed a new Congress Upgrade, three of the vessels were in production for the Federated Suns all hidden at Hadrian’s Command again WolfNet had impressed him, nothing surprising from the Wolf‘s Dragoons. He secretly wondered if Jamie Wolf was aware of even Hadrian’s Command? Not that he worried that the Dragoons would ever strike at the facility only that someone else knew where it was.
“Of course†Jamie said, he knew how the game was played “well I wanted to get them to upgrade the Beowulf, assuming our vessel was acceptable. But they said I had to clear things with you before they could open up a Shipyard for our vessel. And since I guessed I would need to pay you as well as them I picked up some support.†He said looking over his shoulder at the two Dragoon officers. “Here is our offer, Epsilon Regiment and Zeta Battalion sign a contract for six months to a year with the Federated Suns. The Federated Suns through Federated-Boeing upgrade the Beowulf to this newly developed ‘Block II’ version of the Congress.†Victor was slightly stunned although Epsilon Regiment was not the strongest or most prestigious of Dragoon Regiments they were still a Reinforced Regiment of Veteran troops, and they were Wolf’s Dragoons trained and bred, while Zeta Battalion, or Zeta Cluster as it was sometimes referred to, was a Dragoon unit that had returned fully to the Clan organisation structure and was one of the Dragoons most Elite units, them alone would have been enough to make Victor consider the offer. “These troops will be able to Cadre duty, train them to fight the Clans or anybody in the Inner Sphere, they can do raids, covert or real, or standard garrison duty. All I ask is that they are allowed to have a minimum of a Battalion on Galax guarding the supplies and the Beowulf’s crew, not that I don’t trust the Davion Heavy but I would rather my troops looked after my troops.â€
“Of course. I can do better than that.†Victor said thinking about having an extra regiment and an extra battalion of troops to play with Federated-Boeing had done him a great favour by turning down Jamie‘s first offer. “Assuming I would agree to your terms†Jamie nodded “I could give Epsilon Regiment sole garrison duty on Galax and allow them access to the Federated-Boeing Factories and first dibs on their newest tech after the AFFS.†Again Jamie nodded “It would be garrison, research and development and maybe a little cadre duty with passing units. In the meantime Zeta Battalion would be attached to the Davion Heavy Guards as a trouble-shooter for the RCT. Zeta would be independent of the Davion Heavy Command chain but would be expected to join the Heavy Guards in any mission they were asked to undertake, whatever the risk.â€
“That is Zeta’s job anyway.†Jamison said quietly smiling.
“Some cadre duty couldn’t hurt my troops and neither could seeing into the Federated-Boeing factories.†Elizabeth Nicole said Jamie glanced at his two Colonels then back to Victor.
“You’d think I’d retired already.†He whispered so only Victor and Danai could hear properly, the Dragoon unit commanders had been well trained, but Jamie was not ready to go just yet. “I think you have a deal First Prince, however I would like to amend the deal slightly.†Victor looked at the Wolf’s Dragoons commander with a sceptical eye, rarely did the Dragoons mess around with negotiations especially when they were almost over.
“What do you want?â€
“A ride home, I came on the Beowulf but it’s about to be pulled apart.†Jamie said, although the Dragoons had JumpShips they were assigned to the ground troops as integral transport assets.
“I think I can arrange that, the FSS Reynard Davion, should be able to rotate through on its way to the next patrol, we can amend its movement to include Outreach.†He said naming the second Davion Block III to enter service "I'm sure word of an FSN Destroyer in the Outreach system will drive Sun-Tzu nuts just at the thought of what is going on."
“You’re a gent, First Prince Davion†Jamie said broadly smiling shaking his hand again then Danai’s smiling again as he looked at the two of them together there was a little nod, they had past his inspection. “Right boy’s and girls hope you have everything off Outreach†Jamie said to his two Colonels “because the Prince here is your new boss, don’t get used to it though soon enough you’ll be back with me.†He said the two Colonels exchanged glances then saluted Jamie before shaking his hand, the old Dragoon left the throne room on his own and without another word to anyone of them he had returned to his DropShip and within the hour the vessel was taking off.
Victor quickly contacted the FSS Reynard Davion and ensured it would be in system in time to meet the Dragoon’s Supreme Commander, it just wouldn’t be right for him to be left waiting. Once Jamie was gone Victor deployed Epsilon to Galax but retained Zeta Battalion on New Avalon, springing the Dragoons loose on the Tenth Lyran RCT and the First Davion Guards RCT. Once Epsilon had reached Galax and been briefed by local commanders the Davion Heavy Guards RCT would travel to New Avalon and Zeta would travel with the Heavy Guards to their next assignment.
Solaris VII, Freedom Theatre
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
31st August 3062
The mercenary regiment Group W land on Solaris VII and in an eighteen hour moving battle Group W eliminate nearly three regiments worth of troops in company to battalion strength. This takes out so many championship candidates from the Game World’s various stables officials announce that there will be no championship this season. Group W remain on planet to maintain order, gamers who surrendered to Group W are eventually released over the next few weeks however Solaris has lost over half their competitors and the cost of damage to the planets infrastructure was in the millions of C-Bills. Construction of the new Star League Stadium in Silesia, the planetary capital, was delayed for at least another four years because of the damage done to Solaris and the stadium construction sight.
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First Babylon Diet
Babylon, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
5th September 3062
With peace secured between the Clans, at least for now, Clan Cloud Cobra sponsored the First Babylon Diet. The Diet was a gathering of all religious and spiritual leaders of the Clans and the Inner Sphere. Although some of the Clans were openly hostile to the presence of so many Inner Sphere citizens in the Clan Homeworlds there was no trouble arriving.
Nova Cat Oathmaster Jal Steiner had travelled back from the Nova Cat’s Den specifically for this event with him stood, the newly promoted, Star Commander Zane Carns and Camilla Nova Cat. “Well a good showing for the Cloud Cobra gathering, do you not think so Oathmaster, Quiaff?†Zane said quietly.
“Aff, Star Commander, keep your eyes alert and your mind open.†Jal said walking off, the Oathmaster was in his element, many of the people around were from the Cloud Cobra Clan, the Oathmaster’s first Clan.
“Eyes alert for what? Mind open for mystical mumbo-jumbo.†Zane whispered hopefully low enough for no-one to hear. The Diet had taken on top of a massive mesa on Babylon’s southern continent. All around the buildings were one hundred foot cliffs and the only way up were by three narrow entrance ways which were guarded by Cloud Cobra Elite Guards. Only a fool would attack this conference.
“You could help me for something…†Camilla said quietly Zane looked over at her “unless you are too wrapped up to conduct some Nova Cat mysticism.†Zane was puzzled Camilla never had accepted the Nova Cat way of believing in visions and had often distanced herself from Nova Cat visions and beliefs. Although it would limit how high she could ever raise in the Nova Cat touman that did not seem to bother her.
“What do you mean?†Zane asked then he noticed that Camilla was wearing a Vineer pouch, the small leather pouch hung at the side of her uniform. Traditionally Nova Cats carried vineers, or souvenirs of battle, in the pouch and once they felt they were ready they conducted a Rite of Vision trying to find some insight into the future. Zane had been collecting his vineers for years and still felt he had some time to go before undertaking his Rite of Vision. “I thought you did not believe in visions.†Zane said closing on her, his voice but a whisper.
“I don’t†Camilla answered quite quickly “but I have been collecting little things ever since I met the Nova Cats and I think I am ready to have a clear out and why not try to be a Nova Cat for once in my life.â€
“I will tell the Oathmaster…†Zane said stepping away but Camilla snagged his arm.
“No, Zane, I would prefer it if the man who brought me into the Clan and my commander to e the man who watches over my vision.†Camilla was talking about Zane in both positions.
“It will carry little credence with the other Nova Cats without the Oathmaster present.†Zane warned, visions could change the path of a Clan which was why the Oathmaster or a major member of the Clan like a Khan or Galaxy Commander was present at most if not all visions.
“I do not care… Zane, I am a Smoke Jaguar, who was given another chance by the Nova Cats, my most hated enemy from birth, to make a difference. Any vision I have will be for the people I trust implacably and me.†She said Zane looked at Camilla carefully, he had thought she had forgotten her life as a Smoke Jaguar and embraced the Nova Cats and their path, perhaps it would just take longer. He nodded his agreement and walked off to find the Oathmaster excusing himself and Camilla from the proceedings for the next two days, they then both went down to the Mechbay and collected some survival gear and stowed it in their Mechs then less than an hour later they left Zane’s Arctic Cheetah following Camilla’s old Owens. They would find a quiet spot of Camilla’s choosing and conduct her Rite of Vision.
Meeting Room, First Babylon Diet
Babylon, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
7th September 3062
The Babylon Diet was also being used by certain factions within the Clans and the Inner Sphere delegations to negotiate trade, intelligence gathering and begin new treaties. The new Scientist-General of the Nova Cats, Miranda, had chosen this opportunity to approach the Diamond Sharks and negotiate with the Nova Cat’s long term allies about the possibility of help terraforming several worlds in the Nova Cat’s Den. Before she had left the Nova Cat’s Den she had been uploaded a great deal of information regarding the Diamond Sharks and what the would want from the negotiations. After pouring over the records for several days Miranda had sent a message to the Diamond Shark Loremaster Semi Kalasa and the on planet Merchant-Leader Carmen asking for a meeting. Oathmaster Jal Steiner had joined them so a senior member of the Clan could give extra information or stop Miranda giving something she had no power to give.
“Merchantman Miranda, you asked for this meeting, how can we help you?â€
“Last time I looked at the Chatterweb the Diamond Sharks were in possession of several oxygen reclamation units and other terraforming equipment.†Miranda said start with what she wanted. The Chatterweb was an inter-clan intelligence sharing and trading network run by the Diamond Sharks and used by all the Homeworld planets, some inner sphere worlds had been tied into this system as well.
“Aff, we still have the oxygen unit from the Golden Century.†Carmen said “I think they are inside the Kraken. Why would the Nova Cat‘s need them?â€
“They are needed for several of our new colonies, they are liveable but we want to make them more comfortable.â€
“I did not know the Nova Cats had techs capable of operating this equipment.†Miranda looked at Jal Steiner who nodded, Carmen already knew she would need Diamond Shark scientists but wanted to make it appear she knew less, it would make the Diamond Sharks more comfortable in dealing with her.
“We do not, we will need techs and trained scientists as well.â€
“And what would you want in return for this equipment and a contract for techs and scientists to operate it?†Carmen looked to Semi Kalasa who pointed to two points on a list of things Carmen nodded.
“Firstly we would like to be included in the Nova Cat’s little exploration and exploiting of new resources, which would mean Diamond Sharks with Nova Cats on exploration duties.â€
“We are not involved in exploration duties. Our new Homeworlds are conquered worlds.†Miranda said the Diamond Sharks looked to each other with surprise, there had been no Nova Cats in the Inner Sphere that they knew of and none of the other Clans had reported Nova Cat invasion forces in their Occupation Zones.
“Where are your people?†Semi Kalasa asked looking at Jal Steiner.
“The Nova Cat’s Den.†Jal Steiner said smiling “the systems formerly known as the Tortuga Dominions and several surrounding systems.†There it was the secret was out, the Nova Cats were below the Tukayyid Truce Line and were within range of striking the Inner Sphere.
“Why?†Semi Kalasa asked, she was shocked perhaps more so than the merchant.
“A visionâ€
“If the Inner Sphere knew you have broken the Truce Line, if the other Clans knew.†Semi said quietly beginning to realise why the Nova Cats had remained silent about their activities of late. “Could we set up a trading post in your territory, a base where we could keep the Diamond Sharks safe and together between assignments?â€
“That is possible, however the Diamond Sharks must maintain absolute secrecy about the Nova Cat’s new home. We are not hiding our presence to exploit massive amounts of resources, as we are sure many of the Clans think, we are hiding our new home to keep our people and the original citizens of Tortuga safe from retribution from the other clans and the Inner Sphere, we saw what they did to the Smoke Jaguars…â€
Over the next eighteen hours the Nova Cats and Diamond Sharks negotiated an agreement that suited both Clans. The Nova Cats would gain the Diamond Shark promise of silence over the Nova Cat’s Den’s location, the use of one hundred Diamond Shark Scientists and techs for one year, the terraforming equipment and have access to the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser Kraken.
The Diamond Sharks would gain Intelligence on the area surrounding the Nova Cat’s Den, the right to station a Cluster of troops on Tortuga Prime, the right to station the Kraken in the Nova Cat’s Den and rights to build the Nova Cat OmniMech and Stone Rhino Quad-OmniMech.
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Grasslands
Babylon, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
8th September 3062
After searching for days Camilla had found the place she wanted to hold her Rite of Vision Camilla and Zane had built a small fire and sat on opposite sides looking at each other and the fire. “What should I do?â€
“Do what feels right at the time, allow the emotion to run over your body and wait. There may be no vision or you might see the smallest thing.†Zane said quietly. One by one Camilla retrieved her vineers from the pouch. The first was a small bracelet with a small clasp attached.
“I found this after my first battle in the Inner Sphere as a Smoke Jaguar, I thought it was pretty so I kept it.†She said casting it into the fire, there was a small glow to the fire as the bracelet entered but little else. “My bond-cord, the symbol of my greatest failure and the beginning of a new path.†She said dropping the next item into the fire, the bond-cord was still severed in the same place it had been when Zane had severed it. The third and final Vineer was a chocolate bar “I got this soon after arriving on New Barcella.†She whispered quietly, “I realised I was happy where I was and that I was home.†She said casting the chocolate into the fire the bar immediately melted filling the air with a pleasant sweet smell. Nothing seemed to be happening but then Camilla noticed something “do you see that?†She whispered as the image began to grow.
“Yes†Zane whispered seeing the image grow with his own eyes. The image was of a charging smoke jaguar, the beast was a female of the species, ran with reckless abandon until a smaller but stronger nova cat pinned and captured the animal. The smoke jaguar was covered by a nova cat skin and the two nova cats moved together working together against many foes including a solitary wolf. They then encountered a coyote leading several hell’s horses and ice hellions against the cloud cobras who protected a group of men in white atop a mesa. The two nova cats waded into the fight however as the fight wore on the smoke jaguar broke loose of the nova cat concealing it but continued to fight with the nova cat taking down many enemies until a hell’s horse knocked it down. As the battle wore down the nova cat defended the smoke jaguar until its death. Camilla shot to her feet and the image disappeared Zane stood “Camilla…†he began but could not form the words, she had just witnessed what could only be her death.
“This is happening now.†Camilla said “we need to go.â€
“Wait!†Zane shouted leaping the fire grabbing her “you cannot go, we just saw your death…â€
“You cannot fight destiny, Zane.â€
“But visions allow us to change our destinies, make them better…â€
“I’ll watch out for the Hell’s Horse with my bullet and try to avoid him. Let’s go.†She said her voice was ragged but she broke free of Canin’s grip and before he could say a thing was running to her Owens.
First Babylon Diet
Babylon, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
9th September 3062
Following several days of quiet grumbling over the presence of Inner Sphere citizens on one of the Pentagon worlds Clan Coyote Loremaster Calarissa Jerricho led elements of Clan Coyote’s Omicron Galaxy and elements of Clan Hell’s Horses and Clan Ice Hellion against the First Babylon Diet. Clans Cloud Cobra and Diamond Shark defended strongly on all fronts however one of the defence forces guarding one of the three access ramps to the mesa was beginning to break when two Nova Cat light Mechs arrived, an Arctic Cheetah and an Owens. The Cloud Cobras recognised them as friendly and Mechs that had left days before and watched as the two light Mechs tore into attacker after attacker. Two light Mechs alone would not normally cause a large force like this trouble however Zane had an idea on their travel here considering the disparate nature of the attackers the enemy force would have no co-ordination and it would be unlikely that they would be working fully together so they would play on that fact and sow as much trouble as possible. Approaching they noticed that Clan duelling rules were not being honoured and it was a free-for-all. Cloud Cobra lines were beginning to break. “What plan boss?†Camilla asked firing her Mech’s shoulder mounted Extended-Range PPC killing a Coyote thirty-five ton Jenner IIC with a cockpit hit, at this extreme range was extremely impressive.
“Wolf Pack, we get in hit them and sow as much trouble as we can. We keep moving whatever happens. Constantly shift targets, it will take down our kills but give us a better chance†he said triggering his own Extended-Range Large Laser hitting damaging a Hell’s Horses tank “a better chance of surviving this. Do not challenge anyone and keep moving…†he said triggering the laser again, the Arctic Cheetah’s heat jumped but Zane ignored it “…stay away from the Hell’s Horses†he said remembering the vision.
“Yes mum†Camilla said charging into the fight nearly constantly firing her PPC, when she got close enough she triggered the PPC the four machine guns her customised Owens mounted when she got to point blank range to vehicles she lashed out with kick and punch attacks. The Clans generally disdained physical combat on Mech scale but Canin remembered the Smoke Jaguars often lost control in combat and sometimes lashed out physically at each other and vehicles. Zane was constantly firing his Arctic Cheetah’s single large laser and three heavy lasers, one medium and two small. The Arctic Cheetah’s heat scale was constantly raising but he continued to slap the override and keep fighting, every now and then he would trigger the Mech’s six jump jets and take a look at the battle on a larger scale but for the most part he concentrated on damaging as many aggressor Mechs as possible.
It seemed that no-one could touch his Mech or Camilla’s Owens today, neither of them had been struck by a single weapon the entire fight until Zane’s Arctic Cheetah was rammed in the back by a suicidal Hell’s Horses hovercraft. The thirty ton Mech went down under the impact and Camilla moved to cover Zane’s recovery gunning down the hovercraft remains with a hail of machine gun fire killing the crew. Zane regained his feet and turned ready to give Camilla into trouble for wasting ammo and lives for no reason, to disable the craft would have been enough, when a Hell’s Horses Ares Medium Tank struck out at them with a hail of Long Range Missiles. One of the missiles struck the Owens head and the thirty-five ton machine went down in a heap, Zane had no time to check on Camilla launching into the air with his Mech’s Jump Jets he brought the Mech down on the Ares in a classic Death-From-Above attack, a manoeuvre the clans hated but Zane did not care, this was a day for the Clans to forget.
For the next twenty minutes Zane warded the downed Owens without thinking about anything but protecting his downed sub-ordinate, starmate and friend. Zane constantly checked the downed Mech but it made no movement after going down. After the battle was long over Zane still stood in his Mech watching the Owens as Cloud Cobra med-techs removed Camilla’s broken body from the OmniMech’s cockpit. Later they had said she had died immediately but Zane remembered the vision well, Camilla had known she would die and still returned to fight. After informing Jal Steiner of what he had witnessed the Oathmaster promised that Camilla although lost to the Clan’s genetic records, because she lacked a Bloodname, would receive a passage in the Nova Cat remembrance for her actions on the field that day and would live eternally in the written word of their Clan. Zane promised himself and Camilla’s memory that he would never forget the Smoke Jaguar who became a Nova Cat when its Clan died only to return to the Smoke Jaguars when it died, to guide the Smoke Jaguar’s lost souls with its new found wisdom. Zane also realised that he had begun to believe in an afterlife, perhaps the Diet had been worthwhile after all.
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Celentaro, Predition, Logan’s Land
Taurian Concordat/Federated Suns Border
21st-29th September 3062
With Wolf’s Dragoon’s Epsilon guarding Galax the Davion Heavy Guards returned to New Avalon. After a few days of training with Zeta Battalion and the on planet AFFS units Victor Steiner-Davion deployed the Heavy Guards and Zeta Battalion to the Taurian Concordat following Taurian attacks on Federated Suns troops in the St Ives Compact and the attack on New Syrtis Shipyards earlier in the year. With the FSS Lucian Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser, in support the Davion Heavy Guards RCT and Wolf’s Dragoon’s Zeta Battalion are ordered to raid several Taurian Concordat worlds along the Taurian border and eliminate as many Taurian troops as possible showing the Taurian’s that they are fighting in the big leagues by joining the Capellans in the St Ives Conflict.
The Heavy Guards and Epsilon pick three worlds along the Federated Suns border with the Concordat Celentaro, Predition and Logan’s Land. On Celentaro they found the battalion of local militia troops was supported by the Black Angus Boys a mercenary battalion, and a unit known for questionable tactics and dealings with employers. Colonel Jamison requested to Marshal Ann Adelmana, the Heavy Guards overall commander, to engage the force with his Zeta Battalion alone because he considered the Black Angus Boys an affront to the Mercenary trade and wanted to make an example of them to other commands. Adelmana agreed to the Colonel’s request and following the FSS Lucian Davion and the Davion Heavy Guards securing of all Taurian Aerospace Fighters and DropShips, either through forced surrender or destruction of all offensive units, the Wolf’s Dragoons landed on the Taurian world.
Landing three kilometres from the target the Wolf’s Dragoons began to march on the assembled Black Angus Boys and their Taurian Militia support who believed that they were facing a standard raiding force. When Zeta Battalion crested the ridge painted in standard black with the Wolf’s Dragoon insignia on the left torso of each Mech and Battle Armour. Jamison offered the local Taurians a way out by surrendering, they refused because of the Wolf’s Dragoons contract with the Federated Suns, without further warning Zeta Battalion went to work.
The heavier hitting Zeta Mechs with more advanced technology allowed them to drop half the militia and several Black Angus Boys Mech’s in the first salvo. As the brave, foolhardy, Black Angus Boys moved forward attempting to at least damage some of the Dragoons one of Zeta’s Clan-style trinaries flanked left while another flanked right. Jamison had ordered his troops not to kill locals if possible so Zeta’s Mechs carefully disabled the militia while the Elementals and vehicles kept the Black Angus Boys busy, this allowed the Black Angus Boys to close and bring all their weapons into play however even with combined-fire they could not down any of Zeta’s Clan and Inner Sphere OmniMechs only able to force one Mech to retreat and disable a couple of vehicles. With the Militia disabled Zeta turned on the Black Angus Boys with a vengeful fury taking out every Black Angus Boy in a total of three salvos. Although most of the militia walked away from the fight with mostly destroyed equipment, cuts and bruises only five Black Angus Boys walked from their Mechs alive. Jamison took the strange decision of taking all five MechWarriors as bondsmen to the Wolf’s Dragoons intent on training them how to be proper mercenaries. This action and the death of Colonel Angus Black effectively killed the Black Angus Boys as an independent mercenary command. Zeta left the local militia with the broken remains of their own forces and the Black Angus Boys allowing them to rebuild over time. Zeta then returned to their DropShips and rejoined the Davion Heavy Guards and the Lucian Davion and headed for the next target.
On both of the next worlds Predition and Logan’s Land Zeta Battalion took the back-seat as the Davion Heavy Guards engaged the Third Taurian Lancers on both worlds. Because of their superior training and technology advantage the Davion Heavy Guards deployed a reinforced Mech Battalion, two armour regiments and two infantry regiments to each world allowing the full Regimental Combat Team to gain experience. Mixing forces the Guards set up a broken firing line made up of three echelons, attack groups, offering each other supporting fire. The Taurians on the other hand had no discernable strategy, on Predition, the First reinforced Mech battalion supported by the units double company of armoured vehicles and the two battalions of infantry approached the Davion Heavy’s most forward echelon and tried to stand up to fight the Heavy Guards as if they were equal in skill and technology to the Davion unit, something they were not one either, the entire defence force of Predition was destroyed in less than thirty minutes with the fanatical Taurian Lancers refusing to stand down to the superior Davion unit. On Logan’s Land it was an entirely different story the four companies of the Taurian Lancers attacked from different directions at different times. If there had been communication and any sort co-ordination between the companies it may have been effective and they may have caused some light damage unfortunately because there was no communication and no centralised command between the various Taurian companies they were cut to shreds peace-mail by the Davion Guard’s many echelons and the Taurians caused no damage to a single Davion Mech or vehicle and only killed two infantry soldiers one due to a stray autocannon blast and one due to a miss-fired tank gauss rifle and shrapnel killing a trooper guarding the vehicles flanks.
With all three worlds defenders disabled the Davion Heavy Guards RCT and Zeta Battalion informed the Taurians that if their leadership continued to support the Capellan Confederation then the attacks would continue they then left Taurian space heading for nearby New Syrtis for training against the Davion Light Guards RCT and the Eighth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT.
Throne Room
Forbidden City, Sian
Capellan Confederation
4th October 3062
Word of the Federated Suns assault had reached Taurus a few days later and Protector Grover Shaplen had immediately put in an HPG call to Sian demanding to speak to Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao who was awakened from his bed. The palace servant responsible for wakening Sun-Tzu and Naomi Centrella had been executed on the spot by the Death Commando guards on order of the Chancellor.
“What is it Grover?†Sun-Tzu asked, he had little time for the man or his troops but they acted as good cannon fodder protecting his true Capellan troops from the worst their enemies could throw at them.
“A few days ago House Davion and Wolf’s Dragoons destroyed one of my BattleMech Regiments and several conventional regiments and a mercenary unit under my employ! I must recall the regiments I have deployed in the Capellan Confederation to safe-guard my nation against the Davion Hoards!†He said the man was being irrational and was more scared than any man Sun-Tzu had ever seen in his life, finally after centuries of standing waiting for the Federated Suns to invade and now that they had the Concordat was in a panic. Sun-Tzu had expected this, he had heard of Victor Davion’s order and of the contract with the Dragoons a few days before and had been waiting for them to attack him somewhere. Trust Davion to pick the weak link, Sun-Tzu could not afford to loose three Mech regiments, perhaps one regiment.
“Protector if you recall your troops then that will violate the Trinity Alliance agreement.†Sun-Tzu warned, the Capellans had been giving the Concordat economic upgrades and support as well as military not to mention the upgrades they were doing to their secret WarShip, the TCW Vadenberg.
“I need warriors capable of defending my borders, you have three of my regiments.â€
“Then I will send you one of mine, the Second McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry†he said naming the mercenary regiment that had only recently signed on with the Capellan Confederation’s Armed Forces (CCAF) along with the rest of McCarron’s Brigade.
“One regiment for three? How does that give me the troops I need?†Shaplen may be a fool and the partnership the Confederation had signed with him was becoming more and more a liability but Sun-Tzu needed them for now.
“The McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry are fully upgraded troops and are battle hardened they are worth eight of your regiments!†Sun-Tzu screamed at Shaplen, if the Taurian leader wanted to be scared then Sun-Tzu would give him something to be scared of. “However, I will also send upgrade kits for an entire Battalion of your BattleMech forces with McCarron’s forces and a full platoon of Battle Armour forces for your Taurian Guards.†He said, the Battle Armour and upgrades would go straight to the Protector’s first line of defence, not the Taurian Concordat’s defenders.
“And they will arrive within the next couple of months?â€
“As soon as possible Protector, goodbye.†Sun-Tzu said cutting off the link.
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Time for some 'combat'
Open Ground, Near Firebase
New Scotland, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th October 3062
“By the numbers people, we do not want these folks thinking we are here to cause trouble but we do want to drop in the usual way. DropShip commander over to you†Canin said as the Nova Cat DropShips entered the atmosphere over New Scotland, New Avalon’s most northerly and least populated continent. Canin’s Watch Cluster was the first Nova Cat unit to enter the Federated Suns and the WarShip assigned to the unit, the Congress-class True Vision had secretly slipped into the Galax system two days before while the Nova Cat JumpShips had continued to New Avalon and released the ten DropShips of the Watch Cluster.
Over the last six months the Watch Cluster had developed a new way of dropping onto the ground, while the aerospace fighters from the unit’s Carrier, along with the Carrier itself, maintained a high Combat-Air-Patrol (CAP). The rest of the DropShips would orbit low over the landing zone while two DropShips would drop in release their cargo then take off, the sequence would continue until all nine Broadswords had released their Cargo then the ground forces would secure the Landing Zone (LZ) for all ten DropShips and the fighters to land. Although it was in line with the Nova Cat High Risk Insertion Techniques it was experimental much like the make up of the Watch Cluster.
“Drop Zone is hot†the DropShip commander said into the entire unit’s communication frequency, the hot part of the landing zone was the BattleMechs and vehicles of the Tenth Lyran Guards, although they would not fire real weapons at the Nova Cats and their DropShips they would engage the Canin’s people with simulated weapons fire.
As the DropShips reached their insertion level a wing of Tenth Lyran fighters attempted to interdict them however the massed firepower of nine Broadsword A1-class DropShip, the official classification of the Watch DropShips because of their modified weapons and cargo capacity, the massed simulated firepower brought down ten of the twenty Tenth Lyran Fighters forcing the others into a massed retreat. “Insertion Secure. Lervoux and Bavros, you are clear for grounding.†The overall DropShip commander Star Commodore Eric Bavros said naming the first two DropShips, all the Watch Cluster DropShip were named for the Nova Cat Bloodname Houses.
From several hundred metres away Victor Steiner-Davion watched as two Nova Cat Broadswords dived down over the area Lyran and Davion units reported heavy simulated damage as the two DropShips fired constantly on their drop. In all his fighting during the Clan War Victor had only ever encountered the Clans using their DropShips to secure a landing zone twice and on both occasions the Inner Sphere force had received heavy damage. As the first two DropShips landed more DropShips appeared in the lower atmosphere diving quickly on the battlefield, they looked like huge aerospace fighters conducting strafing runs an extremely dangerous move.
“What on earth?†Marshal of Armies Jackson Davion exclaimed as the new DropShips strafed the ground one of the vessels, nearly identical to the landing vessels, soared over their position, all of Victor’s command group reported damage then as the DropShips were raising Victor’s own Dire Wolf, Prometheus, rocked heavily as a flight of missiles slammed into the Mech’s back forcing Victor to fight the controls just to keep the one hundred ton monster still standing. On the ground the first Nova Cats led by an unknown type of Mech was approaching the assembled troops.
“Let’s introduce ourselves.†Victor said “Reinhart your company on me, Arden if you want to come you are welcome. Jackson hold back and join the First Davion.†Victor said throttling his one hundred ton OmniMech forward. Beside him Danai Centrella’s seventy-five ton Falconer and Arden Sortek’s Atlas were keeping pace with him. Further along the line General Reinhart Steiner’s Warhawk led a company of the Tenth Lyran Guard’s most experienced troopers stood providing long range sniper and support fire as they closed. Behind them stood a company from the First Davion Guards, their commander Marshal Bishop Sortek and Jackson Davion and beside them were the Fox’s Teeth Company, newly outfitted in the latest OmniMechs, under the command of Major Ross McKinnon. In the surrounding hills were the majority of the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT and a large portion of the First Davion Guards, these forces were partially there to ensure no New Avalon citizens wandered onto the field but also were there in case the Nova Cats decided they wanted to cause some trouble all the support forces were armed with live weapons just in-case the clan force did cause real unscheduled trouble.
“Damn†Reinhart muttered.
“What is it Reinhart?†Victor asked, the General had fought with Victor throughout the Clan War and was his distant cousin on the Lyran half of the family.
“Admiral Richards informed me that the Nova Cats have deployed fighters in the upper atmosphere and the DropShips are using massed long range weapons to keep her other fighters at bay. We will be doing this without any aero-support.†He said Rear Admiral Lisa Mae Richards commanded the RCT’s four Aerospace wings, for this fight two wings had been deployed and now Reinhart had informed him that all forty fighters had been intercepted, not a good start to the battle.
“Well hopefully the Nova Cat fighters will decide not to interfere, we are having enough fun with their DropShips†Arden Sortek said his Atlas firing lasers and LRMs at the DropShips in a vain attempt to keep the strafing Broadswords at bay. Unfortunately they had no idea how many DropShips the Nova Cats had as all the Broadswords were painted identically, because of the set up of the exercise Victor had said he didn’t want to know how many Nova Cat DropShips were inbound, on top of that thick cloud cover over New Scotland was limiting visual identification. For all its beauty Arden hated this continent because of the weather, apparently it was almost exactly the same here as the original Scotland on Terra.
On the ground clear of the DropShips Star Colonel Canin Rosse looked at the situation, fifteen Mechs were inbound mostly with Tenth Lyran Guards markings and most in the Heavy or assault category. The Mech’s class and the muddy ground was slowing them considerably however Canin noticed that the Lyran Mechs were constantly looking to the air in anticipation of a DropShip attack. Canin keyed in his comm. channel to the DropShip commanders “remember low over those troops keep their heads down.†He said as the Elementals and vehicles of his star arrayed around him. From the other DropShip Jennifer’s star made up of similar units to his were arriving. “We hold this landing zone.†He said as the two DropShips took off one headed straight for the incoming Lyran company while the other circled once then hit the company on the hillside before ascending to a higher altitude. Just as the DropShips disappeared another two were coming into land and another two were beginning strafing runs.
“Damn them†Victor muttered the Nova Cat ground forces were holding station and laying out heavy fire despite their small number, combined with the constant overpasses by the DropShips was making closing on the slow going. As the second pair of DropShips landed doubling the Nova Cats number Victor activated his comm. channel “Jackson, we are going to need you. Have the Fox‘s Teeth go around and try to flank them.†He said as more Nova Cats began joining the firing line, Victor only saw a total of four Mechs but there was four times as well as vehicles and ten times as many Elementals giving them a lot of firepower. Walking forward he triggered all four of his Extended-Range Large Lasers missing the intended Unknown class of Mech and hitting one of the taking off DropShip.
Canin saw the laser blast at the last moment and stepped out of the way, two blasts struck the ground while another two slammed into the DropShip behind him. Spinning around he could see the aggressor the charging Dire Wolf, lead Mech of the Lyran Guards “Capture a Clan Mech and think you can fight like a Clan Warrior?†Canin muttered quietly, before the fight he had told his warriors not to issue challenges to the Davion troops time to break that rule. Accelerating forward Canin activated the Dragon Cat’s wide spectrum communications system allowing everyone in the area to hear him. “Dire Wolf pilot, this is Star Colonel Canin Rosse, Watch Cluster, Clan Nova Cat. I challenge you to a circle of equals may no other enter.â€
Watching as this strange Mech approach the Lyran Guards alone Victor held his fire, mainly because the Dire Wolf was badly overheated, then he was shocked that the Nova Cat commander and he wanted to fight a one-on-one fight, momentarily forgetting it was the Clans he was fighting. “Star Colonel Canin Rosse, this is First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, welcome to New Avalon and the Federated Suns. I will accept your challenge, if you tell us what class of BattleMech you are piloting.â€
“This Mech is a Dragon Cat it is an OmniMech not a BattleMech. May no other enter.†Canin answered quickly finishing the ritual, he realized that he had picked the perfect target taking out the First Prince would certainly make an impression on the Federated Suns Military.
“May no other enter†the Prince repeated, Victor had fought the Clans often enough to know the Clan Warrior would not accept his challenge if he did not say on an open channel that no-other warrior would break their so-called circle of equals.
“Seyla†Canin said then after a slight pause the Dragon Cat accelerated to eighty-four kilometres per hour suggesting the Mech was a heavy design. Victor held his fire and tried to track the Mech and line up his shot but Canin did not wait. Triggering the Dragon Cat’s arm mounted large pulse laser and two medium pulse lasers first tearing into Victor’s Dire Wolf’s left arm armour. Then the Clan Star Colonel followed up with its missile launchers on the other arm, the Dire Wolf’s computers registered twelve high-explosive missile impacts also on the left arm disabling one of the large lasers. Victor returned fire with the assault-class ultra autocannon, the Dragon Cat was moving too fast and only the first shells slammed into the OmniMech tearing up armour high on the torso causing heavy simulated damage. Rosse’s Dragon Cat did not pause to count damage and returned fire almost immediately with two pearl coloured heavy medium lasers slicing into the Dire Wolf’s torso, the two powerful weapons pierced the armour and damaged the Dire Wolf’s fusion core. The cockpit temperature inside Victor’s Mech raised several degrees.
Returning fire with the twenty-tube LRM launcher Victor watched as the Clan MechWarrior turned his Mech violently causing most of the missiles to go wide so only five missiles flew towards the Dragon Cat only to be cut down by the Dragon Cat’s central mounted anti-missile system ‘this guy is good’ Victor thought as the Dragon Cat lashed out again with its pulse lasers, missiles and then heavy lasers. The pulse lasers again damaged the left arm knocking out another one of Victor’s large lasers, the twelve missiles did more damage than SRMs of Victor assumed they were the Clans new Advanced Tactical Missiles (ATMs) and the heavy lasers did twice the damage of normal weapons cutting deep holes in the left leg‘s simulated armour the computers registered all the damage as real and Victor was once again fighting for control.
Triggering both remaining lasers Victor caught the Dragon Cat square in the chest with his fire however the Clan OmniMech shrugged it off showing it had strong armour as well as speed and hitting power. The Clan warrior did not stop his assaults opening up with its missiles and heavy lasers this time cutting into the Mech’s left leg, the battle computers registered a damaged knee actuator and a damaged foot actuator, the Dire Wolf stumbled to one knee Victor barely kept the Mech upright as he used both arms to stabilise and pick up the Mech. The computers registered the left leg was destroyed and he was barely keeping the one hundred ton Dire Wolf standing. Victor twisted the assault OmniMech’s torso left tracking the Dragon Cat which once again was travelling at speed Victor fired the LRMs and the assault-class autocannon, the LRMs went horribly wide but the autocannon tore into the left arm disabling the limb and the weapons there. The Dragon Cat pilot controlled the Mech trough the hit and twisted his own Mech to bring the ATM launcher into play the computers registered nine missile hits each tore into Victor’s autocannon disabling it. Canin then followed it up with both heavy lasers more armour was registered as gone, a real hit would have boiled off over a ton of armour off the Dire Wolf‘s right torso the computer also registered another hit to the assault Mech‘s fusion engine again, the Dire Wolf stumbled even more as Victor began struggling with a heavily damaged fusion engine and damaged legs.
Returning fire Victor tied the two remaining large lasers, LRM launcher and four torso mounted medium pulse lasers into a single trigger the lasers hit the Dragon Cat’s left arm again unfortunately the computers registered the limb as gone and the lasers did no damage, the LRMs all headed towards the torso the Dragon Cat’s anti-missile system cut down over half of the missiles so only six of the missiles struck the Dragon Cat causing little damage. The pulse lasers struck the Dragon Cat’s torso causing the heavy OmniMech damage all over the Mech and two armour breaches. Finally the autocannon struck the Dragon Cat as well finally finishing the Mech’s fight as the shells tore into the central armour and disabled the fusion engine, however Victor’s assault Mech was in no condition to continue the fight, it could barely move so the rest of the fight would continue without either commander.
For the next hour and a half the Nova Cats continued to struggle along without their commander with near constant DropShip attacks keeping the Federated Suns troops and at a safe distance but eventually the combined Lyran and Davion Guard force charged the Nova Cat lines, at the same time the Fox’s Teeth attacked from behind mobbing the Nova Cat landing zone forcing the Clan force to surrender. The damage simulation computers released the Mechs from their damaged state returning them to full combat effectiveness and the Nova Cats were allowed into the nearby firebase.
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Nova Cat Staging Base
New Scotland, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th October 3062
The staging base House Davion had given the Watch Cluster was large enough for a unit twice its size but was very basic in the utilities, it suited Canin fine. The Lyran and Davion Guards along with the Fox’s Teeth backed off as the Nova Cats got settled. With his troops secure and all ten DropShips landed Canin ordered the gates opened and Victor’s command lance closed on the firebase. Reinhart Steiner and Bishop Sortek commanders of the two Regiments had stayed in the field marshalling their troops into DropShips, a battalion of First Davion Guards would remain in the area watching the Nova Cats just in case the Nova Cats decided to attack or cause trouble and keep all non-authorised personnel at a distance of twenty-five kilometres. Regular aerospace patrols would keep atmospheric guests clear and the FSS Fox would watch the space over New Scotland, the Fox-class Corvette drew plenty of attention but kept everyone at a distance as well.
With Elementals on the walls and two Athena Heavy Tanks on the main doors Victor’s command knew that they were in hostile territory, even though the Nova Cats were here to work with them. Victor’s Dire Wolf, Danai’s Falconer, Jackson Davion’s Battlemaster, Arden Sortek’s Atlas, Ross McKinnon’s Black Hawk-KU and a modified Crockett were escorted into six slots in the Firebases Mechbay. There Nova Cat techs were already overhauling the equipment making them ready for the next patrols or duties. The group were shown to a clean up area and all, except Victor, were shocked to see Yvonne Steiner-Davion exit the Crockett along with a First Davion Subaltern. “Yvonne? I was not aware you piloted†Arden said Yvonne looked over at the young officer then back to Arden.
“You give me too much credit Subaltern Thompson was the my chauffer today. I just came along to observe the battle and to see how our guests were welcomed.†She said each of the senior members nodded their acceptance of the young MechWarrior took cursory glances at the Crockett then wandered off following a Nova Cat elemental out of his Battle Armour.
“Subaltern†Victor the young officer walked off and snapped to attention “how much did you do?â€
“Very little sire, although your orders were for us to remain out of the fight. When your Mech was disabled following your fight with the Clan commander Yvonne… I mean the Duchess†he stammered, Victor could understand him using her first name at present they had just finished combat together so he nodded for him to continue “she said that it was not right for a Davion to be on the field and not in the fight. She released the weapons controls to me and closed to firing range.â€
“Any kills?â€
“I think I got the kill shot on a Nova Cat Hovercraft but I am not sure. Not enough to claim a kill.†He said, they had entered the fight late and the modified Crockett’s weapons were not concentrated like other designs it was a pure training Mech.
“Very good, get cleaned up and watch over the Mechs. Have a look around if the Nova Cats will let you.†Victor said jogging along to catch up with the rest of the party who were almost out of the Mechbay.
“Grilling my pilot for no good reason?†Yvonne whispered with a smile on his face.
“Just wanted to make sure he followed my orders and kept you out of the fight.â€
“We were fine enough.†Yvonne said quietly, Victor nodded his sister seemed to have a natural flare for piloting, he wondered how it had been missed for so long and if she would use the talent but that could wait for now the Nova Cat commander was waiting.
Upstairs in the main building Victor and his party were led into a large amphitheatre, probably the biggest briefing room in the entire base capable of briefing an entire regiments worth of MechWarriors. They each made their way down the steps and joined Canin Rosse who stood at one end of a large table, Victor was unsure if the table was there before or not. “Star Colonel Rosse, Welcome to the Federated Suns and New Avalon.†Victor said giving Canin a slight nod Canin remained silent and returned the nod. “Allow me to introduce my people†He said moving from person to person “Marshal of Armies Jackson Davion, commander of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns. Field Marshal Arden Sortek, Head of the Crucis March the area of the Federated Suns you are currently in. Duchess Danai Centrella, Clan War Veteran and personal friend.†Each nodded to Canin as their name was mentioned Canin noticed a slight smile on the Duchess’s face as Victor described her. “And the last two people you know Duchess Yvonne Steiner-Davion, my sister, and Major Ross McKinnon.†A smile blossomed on Canin’s face when that was read out.
“Congratulations Major on the promotion and your upcoming wedding. Did I not say we would meet again?†Canin said stepping past Victor to shake Ross’ hand it was a total breach of diplomatic protocol but Canin did not care he knew Ross and Yvonne he didn’t know the others they could wait.
“Aff, how do you know I am getting married? sir†Ross said, Canin noticed both Marshals shift uneasily at Ross calling Canin ‘sir’ Victor did not seem to notice.
“Well it is one of the main reasons for us being here. It is not often the Watch get asked to go somewhere. Your invite was very generous.â€
“My invite?†Ross was confused and now Canin was getting angry, if he wasn’t wanted at the wedding why did Yvonne have the invite, he looked at Yvonne.
“My fault, Major, you never gave me any invites before I left so I made one up for the Star Colonel and his unit.†Yvonne said explaining things to Ross, Canin‘s anger was beginning to evaporate but he didn‘t like the deception.
“We are wanted, Quiaff?†Canin asked looking back to Ross.
“Aff, I just never realised that the Duchess would make it formal, or that your unit would be so large.â€
“Well a Star Colonel rank demands the troops to match.†Canin said smirking turning to Victor “I hope our entrance was not too over the top. Quineg?†He asked looking back to the First Prince.
“Neg, Star Colonel, the flare of your entrance and the use of your DropShips in the strafing runs was a surprise but a welcome one. I believe it made us all re-evaluate your unit’s worth to this contract.†Victor said, the tactics used only really worked when there was large open spaces for the DropShips to manoeuvre and act like massive aerospace fighters, you also needed the pilots to match the skill required, but he wasn’t about to knock back a complement. “Where are the rest of your troops?†Three Nova Cat WarShips and three ground clusters were expected.
“The True Vision, a Congress-class Heavy Frigate, is waiting in an uninhabited system for clearance to enter the Galax system. Next month the Blade and Remembrance, two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, with the First Nova Cat Guards and the Fifth Nova Cat Regulars will arrive and be ready for assignments.†Victor nodded, he had hoped for another look at one of the Nova Cat’s new ships but the vessels provided would do very nicely especially the True Vision, combined with the data being gained from the Wolf’s Dragoon’s Beowulf the information on the Congress would be very interesting and helpful for the Federated Suns admiralty‘s future plans. “Our original deployment plan calls for one WarShip to be deployed at each of your three shipyards, they will be hidden from public view but fully supported during their stay. The three clusters will exercise with Federated Suns troops throughout the Federated Suns. One Cluster per Federated Suns March sounds good to me.†Victor nodded it would keep the Nova Cats apart if they decided to cause trouble and would allow more of his troops to work with the Clan force.
“You understand the need for secrecy means that any Nova Cat force deployed in the Federated Suns will not be able to publicly wear its own insignia, or formally act as Clan troops.†Victor said, if the other realms suspected the Federated Suns was working with any Clans there would be a heavy price to pay for the Federated Suns and for the Nova Cats.
“Aff, all our troops have been briefed and that is one of the reasons for the delay some of our warriors want nothing to do with the Federated Suns unless they are facing them in battle. The other two clusters are moving other troops into positions currently filled by these troops.â€
“And your own troops?â€
“They are Watch personnel, First Prince, they have to learn to deal with people they do not like.†Canin said bluntly he had not checked his own troops but knew of at least four who would like nothing more than to enter this room and gun them all down, at one point the would have included himself in that but recently he‘d began to question some of his decisions, they did not like the path the Nova Cats were on and saw their presence here as allies to the Federated Suns as a corruption of the Clan way.
“Well, we will give you a few days to settle into the base then your unit will be invited to the Major’s wedding on the Rostock continent, near Captain Montgomery’s home town. At the request of Major McKinnon you will be able to bring a Trinary’s worth of equipment and two OmniFighters will be allowed to join the First Davion fighters for a flyby.†Jackson Davion said Canin nodded his agreement to the terms but little else.
“I will inform my people.†Canin said to Jackson and Ross then turned back to Victor “when is the first exercise?â€
“Well your first exercise is tonight Star Colonel, at the Davion Royal Palace, we will give you a proper welcome.†Victor said “I will send a VTOL to collect you, best dress please. No need to hide who you are tonight everyone will know who you are and why you are here.†Canin nodded, little did Victor know what the Nova Cat’s traditional best dress was, for a second he was tempted to wear that but ultimately he would wear a standard uniform with a couple of additional adornments ensuring he passed for normal for the night, he had never personally liked the traditional dress uniform anyway it was too over the top for him despite Clan tradition.
“The first exercise for your people will be a training session at the Albion Academy. Outside Avalon City†Arden Sortek said “we have a piloting and gunnery range there your people may find interesting and some MI6 troopers are wanting to challenge you Elementals with the new Infiltrator Mk. II.†Canin found the idea of his troops being tested before combat annoying but said nothing, this was their playground he would comply with whatever they laid down for him and his people.
That night Canin was dressed in a charcoal-Gray full body suit with leather collar, shoulder pads and cuffs, the shoulder pads were branded with the pattern of Nova Cat fur. On the left breast sat the Nova Cat insignia while on his collar there were three pins. The first was a full moon pin which designating him as Point One in his Star, the second was a yellow-sunburst set against a blue circle designating him as a Star Colonel while the final pin was a red daggered-star which said he was a MechWarrior, technically Canin didn’t need the final pin, because he was no longer a just a MechWarrior but it felt right to wear it as a reminder of what he was first and foremost a MechWarrior then an officer and member of the Watch so he continued to wear the pin. Finally his pouch of vineers was attached to the left side of his uniform. Following his vision of a woman who was not a warrior came from the people of warriors and became one in front of his eyes, which Canin believed could only be Yvonne Steiner-Davion, the vineers were depleted however as was the Nova Cat way he would begin collecting them again. As he waited for the Federated Suns VTOL, which they could hear in the distance, Star Commander Jennifer appeared at his side.
“You should not be going to this party, it is not right we socialise with them.â€
“Your opinion Jennifer, not mine.†Canin said quietly “we followed our Khan’s vision, our Clan is prospering.â€
“Away from the other Clans, we are straying from the teachings of the Founder.â€
“No we are embracing his vision, we have returned to within striking range of the Inner Sphere and Terra.†Canin said quietly, his voice but a whisper as the Federated Suns VTOL appeared “do you know that right now, we are the closer to Terra than any Clansmen other than the traitorous Wolf’s Dragoons have ever been?†He said as the VTOL circled, Jennifer looked at him surprised she had not thought he believed in that kind of talk anymore. “And did you know that everyday, every contact we make gives us a better picture of how the Inner Sphere is set out and where would be best to strike?†He asked as the VTOL landed “for example at present we know there are four WarShips under construction at the Galax Shipyards and two defending vessels?†He asked walking towards the aircraft, Jennifer was left stunned despite outwardly appearances her commander was still gaining intelligence for their Clan in preparation for resumed operations against the Inner Sphere. Even though she was totally against the Nova Cats association with the Federated Suns or any other state this relationship was perhaps beneficial after all. The VTOL lifted off with Canin and began heading for Avalon City, never know he may even pick something interesting up there as well, only time would tell.
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Main Dining Hall, Davion Royal Palace
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th October 3062
The Federated Suns had gone to every effort to ensure Canin was welcomed by everyone important he may encounter in the Federated Suns baring the most important people of all, the Regimental Commanders. Instead of them there was the Sandovals of Robinson, the Haseks of New Syrtis and the Sorteks of New Avalon. Victor’s younger brother a cadet with the AFFS had been recalled to meet him and there was various Brigade and regimental commanders, luckily for Canin there was enough military personnel in the room to keep him sane and Yvonne Steiner-Davion had attached herself to his arm which was a pleasant and welcome distraction anytime, anywhere. He was also pleased to see Ross and Rachel had been invited as had a good portion of their personnel.
“So Star Colonel, how do you find New Avalon? Better than what you may be used to I guess?†Arthur Steiner-Davion asked as they ate, Canin cleared his mouth before speaking his manners shocking everyone he was sure.
“Aff, New Avalon is a beautiful planet it reminds me of Barcella in the Kerensky Cluster during summer. I do prefer the simpler battlefield of war, however, leave politics to leaders and wars to the rest of us. War is easier to get around and you know who your enemies are, this is beautiful†He said raising his arms slightly and glancing at Yvonne beside him “but it is complicated and not what I would describe as…†He paused looking for the words “normal†he finished brining a could of giggles from around the table, including one from Yvonne, Canin could see Victor, Tarncred Sandoval, Arden Sortek, Jackson Davion, Reinhart Steiner and Bishop Sortek all nodding or smiling approving of his choice, he wasn’t really surprised House Davion had always been the most militaristic of the Succession States with the Davion Family had always been involved throughout the military this was possibly one of the unseen reasons the Nova Cats had chosen to talk instead of invade, respect between warriors went a long way for any of the Clans and House Davion was a warrior culture to the bone.
“I thought we were all friends here.†Arthur continued “you are here to assist us?†He said obnoxiously Canin’s expression went a little sour at his attitude. Canin did not like Arthur’s thought that the Nova Cats were nothing more than hired help the Nova Cats had more than enough power to fight off the Federated Suns if need be and although it would likely destroy the Nova Cat Touman it would also decimate the AFFS and probably dozens of worlds leaving the Federated Suns wide open for assault by its neighbours.
“We are allies, that does not mean we are friends. Because the Field Marshals…†he said indicating to James Sandoval, George Hasek and Arden Sortek, “…control areas of the Federated Suns would you say they are your best friends, First Prince Victor?†Victor looked to them all in turn knowing he‘d successfully found a chink in the Federated Suns armour, politics. Canin could tell that Victor’s brother and perhaps another couple of people around the table would be a problem.
“We do our best, but not always.†Victor said smiling as he agreed with Canin who nodded his thanks “people could be allies and not friends. But I prefer to think that we will be allies and friends.†Victor said nodding slightly to Canin remained impassive for a moment then mainly out of politeness he also nodded ‘keep them happy and ignore the little brat’ he thought silently seeing the look on Victor‘s face, the First Prince understood diplomacy Arthur didn‘t that was for sure.
“That was an interesting insertion method this morning Star Colonel, is that standard among the Watch?†Reinhart asked changing the subject to things more recent and more tangible Canin noticed Arthur was angry but Victor was happy with the switch in topic and was ready for his answer.
“Neg, if I am honest the entire idea of a Watch Cluster is not standard either. The Nova Cats are the only Clan, as far as I know, that has an armed force permanently attached to the Watch. Most if the other Clans treat the Watch with complete disdain and assign old warriors to the task, the Watch gets little new technology and is left to do a job most of the Clans care little about. I was the only Bloodnamed warrior to volunteer for duties within the Watch. Khan West was impressed by the Special Forces of the Inner Sphere, mainly the Draconis Elite Strike Teams, of the Draconis Combine, and your own Rabid Fox troops, he wanted a force of his own so the unit was formed just before your Fox’s Teeth arrived†he said looking to Ross and Rachel. “If we had not been present then they would have faced a regular Battle Cluster and a whole different problem. The insertion technique we used was something completely new, our pilots were only assigned the Broadsword A1 very recently so they were a little rusty. They will improve as they get more practice.†Canin noticed the Federated Suns senior military commanders around the table look slightly surprised and worried at that thought and suppressed his smile he didn‘t need to worry them he needed to gain their trust.
“Well if you could please pass onto them, from me and the Tenth Lyran, that it was impressive.†Reinhart said Canin nodded his thanks, the insertion method like the unit was completely new and untested in battle Canin was pleased to receive a plaudit from a successful military commander like the Lyran commander, the Tenth‘s Clan War exploits were well known among the Clans.
“I will second that, and if I may the First Davion Guards Aerospace Forces and DropShip commanders may borrow some of your pilots for a spell?†Bishop Sortek asked to get such an ask from the Davion Family’s Elite House Guard was a major step forward.
“My pilots would be happy to pass on what they know and how it could be adapted to your DropShips and units.†Canin said having the Watch pilots train with the pilots of the AFFS could never be a bad thing, this was a major step whatever happened. The rest of the meal went relatively quietly there was a couple of questions about the Nova Cat Clan and life as a Clansmen all of which Canin was able to answer easily. Barring one from Tarncred Sandoval who had been watching him and Yvonne carefully all night.
“So Star Colonel are you involved with anyone at present?†Tarncred asked Canin noticed Arthur smirk Canin took that to mean romantically involved with someone, which officially he wasn’t.
“If you are asking am I having sex with someone on a regular basis†Canin said bluntly a couple of people coughed or choked with surprise at his bluntness not something someone would normally say at this sort of gathering, ‘good‘ Canin thought smiling it was time to show what he truly was and see if they would accept a Clan Warrior being a Clan Warrior in his truest form not some sort of diplomat. “The answer is no†he noticed the people gathered that had not dealt with Clan personnel looked shocked including Yvonne. “We approach relationships differently than you do, in the Clans our military Toumans do not grow naturally most of our warriors are born in Iron Wombs, using genetic engineering.†Several of the people around the table knew this of course they had fought the Clans and Victor’s head of security Tigret was a former Smoke Jaguar Warrior captured during the destruction of that Clan. “This has made relationships redundant among our front-line warriors, some warriors are looked down on with disdain for forming lasting relationships and within other Clans a warrior could even face adjournment because of a romantic involvement. The Nova Cats are not so strict but relationships are just as uncommon within my Clan as others many wonder what is the point as their children, if it was even possible, would be looked down on by other members of the Clan for not being Trueborn. The genetic life of our clan is very important to the Nova Cats as it is with all the clans.â€
“So your single for your whole life, I can see a bonus in that, especially in my class!†Arthur said Tarncred, Victor and the senior Sandoval Duke James Sandoval all gave Arthur ’you idiot’ looks but it was Yvonne who spoke up.
“You’re sick Arthur, this is not something to discuss on the dinner table with the leaders of any Succession State, more like on the battlefield between drunken warrior of the lower-class or in a Capellan hoar-house.†She said storming out Danai Centrella left the room moments later as did a couple of the other women. Arthur did not look bothered in the slightest but Victor looked like he was going to beat Arthur into a pulp, Canin‘s thoughts mirrored Victor‘s but he made sure he kept his thoughts buried under the surface, no weakness no emotion would be showed.
“Damn Star Colonel, you made quite an impression†Ross whispered leaning in close Canin nodded, he didn’t really care what kind of impression he made on a social level, he cared about making an impact on the martial level. Looking at the door in which Yvonne had left through he did feel some regret, maybe he had been a bit too blunt. The rest of the night went smoothly and Canin was soon standing on the side of the palace on one of the many VTOL landing pads waiting for the aircraft to arrive.
“You’re going to be waiting a while I’m afraid the last ride of the night doesn‘t arrive for a while.†Yvonne said walking out the glass doors her appearance brought a smile to his lips then he noticed the jacket he had given her on Tortuga was in her hands “I’m returning this†she said holding it out to him.
“It is yours, Yvonne†Canin said refusing to touch the jacket, he would not accept it back, he had given it to her.
“Star Colonel, I do not want to be just another notch on your bedpost.†She said Canin didn’t really get what she was meaning but took a step closer she took a step back towards the building doors.
“Yvonne†he noticed her flinch “listen to me, what we shared was something to be cherished by both of us. I have never felt like that about anyone I have ever been with. I don’t know how you felt but I really enjoyed being with you the whole time we were together and tonight when we were together. I would like to perhaps explore it further†he said his voice drifting off as the VTOL started to land Yvonne looked at the aircraft and Canin moved in closer, this time she did not retreat “whatever you feel about me, keep the jacket, you look better in it than I ever will.†He said kissing her on the cheek before turning away and moving to the landed aircraft. With one last look at her then at the surrounding palace he climbed aboard the VTOL and within seconds the aircraft was airborne whisking him away.
The combination of the VTOL rotors and the cold midnight air made Yvonne feel cold so without thinking she pulled on the Nova Cat uniform jacket and zipped up the front it felt warm and smelled of Canin even though he had not worn it in months. Walking back inside she headed to her quarters still wearing the jacket Yvonne saw the Sandovals moving up one of the staircases towards the guest quarters, Victor had invited them, George Hasek and the Sorteks to remain for a couple of days while the Nova Cats moved through Albion training ranges. Tarncred Sandoval noticed her and hesitated for a moment waiting for her then noticed the jacket, so far Yvonne had told no-one of the Star Colonel’s gift, although it had no Nova Cat insignia on it the jacket was of the same design as the one Canin had worn tonight even down to the three pins on the left collar. This was the first time she had worn it since returning to the Federated Suns and now that it was on there was no-way she was removing it just because Tarncred had seen her wear it the Baron nodded and then followed his father up the stairs silently, they had a budding relationship before she had met Canin, when the Nova Cats turned over the Fox‘s Teeth and the Thunderchild, she had drifted away from him and now he knew why. Yvonne did not like the idea of being just another one of Canin’s conquests as Arthur had made it sound but she did not think that was what was going on with the Star Colonel, only time would tell.
Mech Piloting Training Range, Albion Academy
South Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
11th October 3062
After watching the cadets go through the obstacle course the Nova Cats were ready for their turn. Canin’s Command Trinary were here today and he was up first. For this he had the Nova Cat techs reconfigure the OmniMech’s weapons to the Alpha configuration, which gave him a massive Gauss Rifle, three Heavy Medium lasers, a six-shooter SRM rack and a TAG laser, one of the vehicles in his command star also carried Arrow IV Artillery Missiles and the TAG was aligned to its frequency. The Dragon Cat Alpha also had five jump jets giving Canin unparallel manoeuvrability compared to the standard design, it was time to show off. For today’s exercise the Dragon Cat and the whole command Trinary had been repainted in the Watch Parade colours an all-black base coat with silver highlights on the knee, elbow and head assemblies and blue marking the weapon ports.
“Time to see just how our Star Colonel handles himself†Victor said looking at the assembled gathering “Arthur your lance went through here earlier what was your time?â€
“Four Minutes, twenty-three seconds†Arthur said proudly “I was within the top two percent of cadets this morning and beat all but two of the instructors in the medium weight class.†He said continuing to boast, Arthur had recently been given his first permanent BattleMech, a gift from Duke James Sandoval, a brand-new fifty ton Enforcer III.
“Well let’s see if the Star Colonel…†Victor said drifting off as Danai and Yvonne both entered, he noticed Yvonne wore a black jacket similar to the one Canin had worn the night before where she had got it was a mystery to Victor, but one he would investigate. “…let’s see if the Nova Cat Commander can do any better.â€
“Unlikely†Arthur whispered Victor could not wait until Arthur was gone, his time on New Avalon had not been productive.
“Especially unlikely since the Star Colonel ordered the range techs to set the artificial targeting systems to their hardest settings. I think the Star Colonel will be lucky to walk his Mech clear of the range.†The range Commandant said Victor saw Arthur smile but thought that the Star Colonel was more likely to do something a little more impressive than lose to a computer program.
“Star Colonel Rosse, you may begin when ready†Victor said into the comm.
“Aff†Canin replied, the Dragon Cat shot forward towards the first obstacle a tunnel with a laser turret at the far end. Crossing the mouth of the entrance the laser fired but missed the seventy ton OmniMech, crossing a second time Canin fired a blast of heavy laser fire into the tunnel the three opal coloured laser beams vaporised the turret in an instant. Still in the entrance way Canin ducked the Mech to avoid the dying breath laser blast from the turret and charged down the entrance way, as he exited the tunnel Canin stomped down on the Mechs floor pedals and launched the Dragon Cat skyward the laser trap set outside the tunnel fired but missed the flying OmniMech burning the walls of the tunnel instead. Twisting the Mech in mid-air Canin launched a gauss slug at one turret and a flight of SRMs at the other. The gauss slug destroyed its target while the SRMs disabled the turret mechanism shutting down the weapon. Showing he was an expert pilot Canin twisted the Mech in mid-air again completing a full 360 turn before bringing the Mech into a controlled landing and running on.
“Wow!†Arthur exclaimed watching the Nova Cat Star Colonel control his Mech, Victor smiled perhaps now his younger brother would understand why the Nova Cats were here. The Dragon Cat continued on blasting three more turrets in quick succession before reaching the last area. Four turrets arranged in a semi circle right in front of the observation windows “there is no-way he will get past this without a fight, two turrets cover the sky and one cover each entrance, we all took damage doing this part.†Arthur said, his own Enforcer III had lost its Ultra-class autocannon in this fight but the large pulse laser had brought him through the fight.
The Dragon Cat appeared at the entrance and then dodged out of the way narrowly missed by a autocannon blast. The second time he launched over the small gap using the Dragon Cat’s jump jets twisting the OmniMech’s torso he cut off a gauss rifle slug destroying the closest turret as a pair of PPC blasts and an LRM salvo flew past. Now with the gap clear Canin stepped into the breach as the three turrets attempted to track his Mech a laser blast destroyed the laser turret, an SRM salvo destroyed the PPC turret and then Canin began running around the LRM turret, the Inner Sphere-tech LRMs unable to track the fast moving OmniMech “what’s he doing? It has over ten tons of ammo. He’s wasting time!†Arthur said as the Dragon Cat twisted its torso still running at full speed “finally!†Arthur exclaimed expecting Canin to fire, instead the Dragon Cat launched skyward way from the turret turning in mid-air “Fire!†Arthur shouted, Victor felt slightly embarrassed by his brother Arthur was like a kid watching the display but Victor realised was barely stopping himself screaming the exact same thing.
“Com’on Canin†Yvonne whispered just as the turret was hit by a missile from directly above, the turret was engulfed in a massive explosion just as the Dragon Cat landed its arms spread wide.
“Time†the range supervisor said as the Dragon Cat with arms spread wide appeared to take a bow Victor often marvelled at how lifelike the Clan Neurohelmets could make Clan OmniMechs look even with all these years with his Prometheus the technology still surprised him. “Three minutes, fifty-eight seconds a new course record for the heavy class.â€
“And within the top percent of the medium times†Victor said looking at the display “you see why the Nova Cats are here? Arthurâ€
“The last shot was not from the Mech†Arthur said, “he broke the rules of the course†he had to find some sort of fault with an excellent performance although Victor was curious to hear where the weapon had come from himself.
“We will hear from the Star Colonel when he arrives†Victor said as two Nova Cat Elementals and a small vehicle arrived at the Dragon Cat’s feet. The Elementals remained guarding the Mech while the vehicles took Canin up to the observation deck. Canin entered the deck wearing a black jumpsuit, his face and short hair was covered in sweat a towel was around his neck and shoulders. “Well done Star Colonel, a very impressive score I’m sure it will take a while for our cadets and perhaps even the instructors to beat that time.â€
“Thank you, First Prince Davion, it was quite an impressive course and challenges many aspects of Mech piloting with plenty of gunnery challenges to keep things interesting. However there are a couple of changes I would suggest starting with…†Canin began but Arthur interrupted.
“Hold it Colonel, how did you destroy the last target? It looked a lot bigger than one of your SRMs.†Arthur said accusingly.
“Arthur…†Victor whispered, he wanted his brother to drop it, this wasn’t the time, if there ever was a time for this not now.
“It is alright First Prince Davion, Duke Davion†Canin said addressing Arthur with his title the young man seemed to like that further lowering him in Canin’s ratings “before the exercise began I checked with the course supervisor on the rules of the course. He said that during the exercise they wanted to see MechWarriors fully utilising their Mechs and their personal abilities.â€
“That doesn’t explain why you called in artillery support†Arthur said looking at the data, the explosion could only have come from an Arrow IV Artillery Missile even Victor looking at the information had to agree with his brother, Canin had cheated which left him with a slightly sour taste in his mouth.
“I am afraid you are wrong, Duke, you see the Dragon Cat carries a Light Targeting Accusation (TAG) Laser specifically tied to Arrow IV Missiles, one of the Epona Pursuit Tanks in my Star has an Arrow IV System currently fitted. I simply used my OmniMech’s capabilities and my Star Mates capabilities, as any good commander does. Now if there is nothing else I could suggest some improvements…†Canin said Arthur remained silent as both Victor and the Commandant Major General Fredrick Hastings both slowly nodded their approval to the unorthodox tactic Canin walked off with Victor and the Commandant . Across the College training grounds for the rest of the day Nova Cat warriors set records on every course they stepped on. Arthur was on his DropShip a couple of hours later heading back to Robinson with one clear message ‘The Nova Cats are way better than us.’ It wasn’t a defeatist thought but more of a task Arthur would take on, before the Nova Cats left the Federated Suns he would beat them.
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Robinson Battle Academy
Beuller, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Suns
18th October 3062
Merely days after Arthur and the Sandoval family had returned from New Avalon unknown Draconis Combine troops arrived. The Draconis Combine troops made a direct line to the Robinson Battle Academy and destroyed the prestigious facility, destroying the Robinson Training Battalion in the process and heavily damaging the Second Battalion of the Second Robinson Rangers. The only reason Arthur survived the attack was because he was on a training exercise with Baron Tarncred Sandoval and the First Battalion of the Robinson Rangers on the other side of the planet, they arrived a few hours after the last Draconis Combine Mech had been taken down. None of the Combine MechWarrior survived the attack, any who survived their Mech’s destruction committed suicide instead of being captured. Two days later the worlds of Breed, New Ivaarsen and Royal all Draconis March worlds report attacks by unidentified units of the Draconis Combine again all captured warriors committed suicide but are all Japanese of origin.
Over the next few days the Draconis March demand retribution for these attacks. With the Draconis Combine unwilling to apologies or even admit responsibility Victor Steiner-Davion authorises a punitive strike. The Federated Suns will take seven Draconis Combine words in retribution for the Draconis Combine raids, just like the Combine did with the Lyran Alliance’s Lyon’s Thumb following Lyran attacks on Combine troops. Victor releases five additional units, including the Davion Heavy Guards RCT with Wolf’s Dragoons Zeta Battalion supporting, the Fourth Davion Guards RCT, the newly commissioned First Federated Suns Lancers RCT, the First NAIS Training Cadre and the Second Crucis Lancers RCT. Along with these troops Victor assigns two Fox-class Corvettes the Invincible and the Brest to the strike. But he also warns the ‘Old Duke James Duke’ Sandoval that if the Draconis March over steps the mission boundaries he will come down on them just as hard. With units moving towards the Draconis March the assaults won’t begin until late December.
Alshain, Ghost Bear Capital
Ghost Bear Dominion
19th October 3062
Hours after the unauthorised attack against Robinson and on the other border of the Draconis Combine another attack was well underway the four regiments of the Alshain Avenger Brigade supported by the DCS Dragon’s Last Tear, a Tatsumaki-class Destroyer were in position to launch an attack on their Homeworld of Alshain, occupied by Clan Ghost Bear for nearly twelve years.
The Alshain Regiments had been infiltrated by members of the Black Dragon Society at every level and under their own initiative had organised this assault alone out with regular command levels. The Black Dragon Society was an underground movement within the Draconis Combine comprised of politicians, business men and members of the military who believed that the spawn of Theodore Kurita, including current leader Hohiro Kurita, were unfit to run the Draconis Combine. The attack by the Alshain regiments was seen as a way for the Black Dragon Society to force the DCMS to send more troops to secure Alshain and the worlds around it beginning the end of the Ghost Bear occupation of their Homeworlds.
Unfortunately for the Alshain Regiments Clan Ghost Bear had made Alshain their capital world, in orbit they found an expansive shipyard facility defended by the Nightlord-class Battleship Ursula Major. The vessel tore into the Dragon’s Last Tear gutting the destroyer in less than twenty minutes, the Tatsumaki-class Destroyer remains slammed into Alshain’s southern plains before the Alshain Regiments made landfall. The Ground Regiments were attacked in space with a third of their number destroyed before they even made landfall, on the ground the regiments met three Galaxies worth of Ghost Bear troops. Although they fought valiantly and took down three clusters of troops they were overrun and destroyed after eight hours of fighting.
Following this unwarranted attack the Ghost Bear Dominion officially declares war on the Draconis Combine and begins launching attacks all along the border, DCMS commanders redeploys units from Federated Suns, Lyran Alliance and periphery borders to counter this threat. Even with these redeployments by the end of the month the Draconis Combine are under assault on ten worlds and have lost control of three worlds.
Wedding Day, Banchory
Rostock, New Avalon,
Crucis March, Federated Suns
31st October 3062
Although not religious Star Colonel Canin Rosse a trinaries worth of troops attended Ross’ and Rachel’s Wedding on the Rostock Continent. Instead of going into the church building the Nova Cats stood guard around the entire facility the equipment was all painted in Fox’s Teeth colours covering their identity. About half the way though the morning a convoy of vehicles arrived and Victor Steiner-Davion, Danai Centrella and Yvonne Steiner-Davion arrived. Even with wars breaking out all around them and with the entire Draconis March reading for an invasion of the Draconis Combine Victor was showing he still looked after his people. With so much Clan equipment on hand there was a lot of media attention however when Victor arrived with Danai and his sister the media attention went through the roof.
In the surrounding area Canin’s five MechWarriors, twenty-five Elementals and ten vehicles, the same type of Trinary Canin had commanded on Tortuga during the time the Fox’s Teeth were there, remained in position the entire day receiving the whole wedding service though their communication systems.
Following the service the media went crazy again as first with the married couple leaving under the escort of two points of Elementals until they were clear of the town. Before the media decided to leave completely Victor Steiner-Davion made an announcement to the press. “Ladies and gentlemen of the press, people of New Avalon and of the Federated Suns in the greater beyond. Today we have seen a beautiful ceremony and the beginning of a marriage I hope lasts until death parts them. Witnessing this has moved me to make an announcement†he said reaching back behind him snagging Danai’s hand pulling her forward “I have asked Duchess Danai Centrella to be my wife and she has accepted.†The cameras went mental in front of them as Victor and Danai sealed the announcement with a kiss. Another three points of Elementals had maintained an exit corridor, no-one willing to challenge the massive armoured warriors to break the wall. “Further details will be announced as time moves on†Victor said before he and Danai escaped the media to their armoured limousine, again Elementals escorted them clear of the small town then once clear two Nova Cat armoured vehicles in Fox’s Teeth colours escorted them further away. With such a big announcement there was very little coverage of the fact the whole Fox’s Teeth was deployed with their commander getting married and that all their equipment was Clan made.
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ProtoMech Trial of Possession
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
2nd November 3062
During a Trial of Possession for ProtoMech technology and a group of former-Smoke Jaguar scientists who worked on the project Clan Coyote Khan Sullivan Koga is killed during combat with Clan Star Adder. Although the Coyotes are able to secure ProtoMech Technology and the scientists they have lost one of their most brilliant minds, following the loss of their Loremaster during the ill-fated attack on the Babylon Diet the Coyotes withdraw to their holdings as they lick their wounds. Five days late after fighting off trials from several senior Galaxy Commanders saKhan Silas Kufahl becomes the new Khan of Clan Coyote.
Sirius
Sirian Concordance Worlds
Free Worlds League
6th November 3062
Tensions between the Sirian Lancers and the Free Worlds League Militia had been high since 3061 when the Lancers broke all ties from the FWLM and travelled home. To the Sirian Concordance, first liberating the remaining two worlds of the Concordance and setting their leader, General Helen Thrall, as Primus of the Concordance. The three Lancer Regiments had began cashiering out or transferring non-Sirian born warriors against FWLM regulations. The FWLM under direct orders of Captain-General Thomas Marik had deployed the Fourth Marik Legionaries and the Thirty-seventh Marik Militia to the worlds in an effort to bring the Lancers to heal and being humanitarian aid to the population of the ravaged worlds.
On the third November a brawl in a bar sparked the beginning of a fight that would eventually encompass all four worlds of the Concordance and break a relationship. A Sirian MechWarrior had been in a bar following a long patrol and two Marik Legionaries along with two more cashiered Lancers had entered and assaulted the warrior, putting the MechWarrior in a coma and near death. The Sirian bar staff and punters had taken offence to one of their own being attacked by the ‘outsiders’ and attacked the Legionaries and the cashiered warriors which resulted in the death of two men and the kidnapping of the other two. General Adiss Sullivan had ordered her troops to lock down all Sirius towns and block all off-world travel including humanitarian efforts until her men were released.
On the Fifth the two kidnapped men were found executed with the words ‘Independent Sirius Now’ burned onto their chests. On the Sixth the three Sirian Lancer Regiments deployed with the Fourth Legionaries and Thirty-seventh Marik Militia on all four worlds as they began a hunt for the perpetrators and a total lockdown including widespread arrests. The Sirian Lancers under direct orders from General Helen Thrall lined up with the two FWLM regiments but never went a step further, at almost the same time on all four worlds the Sirian Lancers attacked the FWLM units and General Helen Thrall sent a message to Atreus, the Free Worlds League capital, ‘Sirian Concordance declares independence, you are no-longer welcome here.’
In a whirlwind campaign that lasted six days the Sirian Lancers destroyed the two FWLM Regiments, at the cost of the Third Sirian Lancers the least experienced or desirable Lancer Regiment. In total they captured nearly one thousand prisoners. To ensure there was no immediate retribution for these action General Helen Thrall sent a message to Northwind contracting the Stirling’s Fusiliers Regiment of the Northwind Highlanders for additional firepower and sent a message to New Canton requesting SLDF Humanitarian Aid and Protectorate Status saving them from retribution from the Free Worlds League.
Lieutenant General Harry Sanders of the SLDF on New Canton immediately deploys the Fourth and Fifth Battalions of the First Battle Armour Corps to the Sirian Worlds without authorisation from the First Lord or Commanding-General. The SLDF troops begin humanitarian aid as soon as they arrive.
Disputed Territory
Schuyler, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine/Ghost Bear War Front
23rd November 3062
During the battle for this world the Warlord of the Pesht Military District Tai-Shu Teyasu Ashona fell in battle battling Ghost Bear saKhan Aletha Kabrinski. Twp days later Tai-sho Tomoe Sakade, the low-born wife of the old Draconis Combine Coordinator Theodore Kurita was elevated to the position by Theodore’s son Hohiro, the current Coordinator. Although no regiment had fallen, other than those of the stricken Alshain Avenger Regiments, all DCMS troops on the Ghost Bear lines were now taking heavy damage at the hands of the enraged Ghost Bear forces. Six worlds Maulang, Yamarovaka, Kanowit, Kiesen, Schuyler and Luzerne had all fallen to the Ghost Bears with another ten worlds under attack. The Star Adders who still controlled three worlds of the occupation zone they once held with Clan Smoke Jaguar had also claimed Turtle Bay for their own however they appeared to be turning against the Ghost Bears instead of the Draconis Combine.
Constance
Ghost Bear Dominion
25th November 3062
Following a successful trial against the Draconis Combine for ownership of the world of Turtle Bay, a world made infamous by the Smoke Jaguars for their Orbital Bombardment tactic, the Star Adders decided to leave the Draconis Combine to the Ghost Bears instead turning back on the Ghost Bears striking Jarett, Constance and Thule in quick succession. This move took the Ghost Bears by complete surprise however the Ghost Bear rage soon turns on the Star Adders as they enter other systems the Star Adders find far stronger resistance including the WarShip Bear’s Den, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, in the Pinnacle system.
After vaporising the Eleventh Armoured Cavalry Squadron (Cluster) of the Star Adder’s Alpha Galaxy with a barrage of Naval Autocannons while the ground troops were still in their DropShips the Bear’s Den brutalises the Exodus Ranger, a York-class Destroyer. The Ghost Bears claim the WarShip as their own and return it to Alshain for repair and refit. Following this display the Star Adders hold their assaults into Ghost Bear territory and attempt to fortify their positions content with the new territory they have gained. The Bears return their anger to the Draconis Combine, the Star Adders will wait for now, the Bears will to continue fighting the Draconis Combine is beginning to diminish.
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Imperial Palace
Luthien, Pesht Military District
8th December 3062
Despite the war threatening her realm Omiko Kurita knew there was nothing she could do, she was not a warrior at least not one that could affect the course of a battle more like a war. She was Keeper of House Honour and she was head of the Order of the Five Pillars, a shadow intelligence organisation hidden so deep within the Draconis Combine that nearly no-one outside was aware of its even existence. Omi had directed the OP5 to assist the Draconis Combine’s ISF as much as they could but there was little they could do against the Ghost Bears, the Clan wanted revenge for an attack on their realm, their capital Alshain a captured Combine world. Omi understood their mindset and had tried to explain things to her two brothers before they had left Luthien to fight against the invading Clansmen however they did not listen. Now Omi was reading reports of another potential problem the Federated Suns was preparing to attack, she had not expected Victor to authorise such an attack but according to the report he had assigned additional troops to the operation.
Reading through the reports Omi was engrossed, although she did not interfere with military matters and would not know where to start fighting a war she found the psychology involved interesting and complex. Omi was so engrossed she did not hear the attack outside her room which killed her two ISF guards or the assassin slipping into her room. Just before he struck she sat up straight “why do you do what you do?†She said making no move to defend herself or look at her attacker.
“My boss wants to hurt someone†he said his voice muffled thought the mask as he leaned over her and brought the knife up in one swift movement slitting Omiko Kurita’s throat, as she died he held her for a moment “and because she pays good.†He whispered before slipping out of the room leaving Omi in a pool of blood. Within an hour a palace servant had found Omi’s body and gotten the word to the ISF who immediately took care of the servant killing her and killing any chance of the word leaking out. The Palace was locked down by the ISF and everyone who worked there was arrested and taken to secure holding. Within six hours the word had reached Hohiro and Minoru on the front-lines.
By the end of the day the entire DCMS aerospace force from WarShips to DropShips to aerospace fighters was active and the borders were secured, vessels trying to leave were stopped and arrested. Although Hohiro remained on the front with the Genyosha Regiment and the Royal Black Watch of the SLDF, protecting him as First Lord of the SLDF, he did loan the SLS Unity City, the First Lord’s personnel vessel to Minoru he set out to find and eliminate the assassin who killed Omiko.
Federated Suns Retribution Strikes
Draconis Combine Proserpina and Irurzun Prefectures
22nd December 3062
In a move reminiscent of Hanse Davion and the Federated Suns of the Fourth Succession War Baron Tarncred Sandoval leads six House Davion RCTs, one Robinson Ranger regiment, two mercenary regiments and two mercenary battalions supported by two Fox-class WarShips across the border into the Draconis Combine in retribution for the attacks against Robinson and three other Federated Suns worlds.
Like the Fourth Succession War attacks Sandoval drops units on all seven targeted worlds Marduk, Paris and Tripoli, in the Irurzun Prefecture, and Fellanin II, Sheat, Kathandu IV and Prefecture Capital Proserpina, in the Proserpina Prefecture at once overwhelming the Draconis Combine defenders with the sheer speed and power of the assaults. On all targeted worlds the Davion forces neutralise communications first surrounding the ComStar HPG centres first without actively interdicting the sites, to avoid ComStar’s wrath.
The only three worlds to put up any real fight are Fellanin II, Proserpina and Marduk, the DCMS has recalled most units to the Ghost Bear border to deal with what they saw as a greater threat. On Fellanin II the Second Crucis Lancers RCT and Wilson’s Hussars, a mercenary regiment of low technological and experience value but under Federated Suns employ, encounter the First Shin Legion protecting a BattleMech factory and warehouses. Surprised to find a Veteran DCMS Regiment the Second Crucis Lancer prepare for a long fight against the DCMS troops, unfortunately their mercenary allies charge in and are destroyed to the man in a fast brutal battle. The Second Crucis Lancers ready for a long battle were surprised when the Shin Legion offered them a stand up battle, they were ready to die like true samurai. The Second Crucis Lancers met them on the plains south of the capital city and in a four hour battle the Shin Legion was destroyed as was a regiment of armour and a regiment of Infantry from the Crucis Lancers, the world was now in Federated Suns hands.
On Proserpina the First Robinson Rangers, Davion Heavy Guards and Wolf’s Dragoons Zeta Battalion encounter both remaining Proserpina Hussar Regiments the First and Fourth. In Proserpina’s hostile environment, caused by centuries of war the two sides clashed several times over a week of fighting before one massive battle to end all battles two kilometres outside the capital Conqueror’s Pride. In an epic battle of sixteen hours both Draconis Combine Regiments are devastated and destroyed, although roughly a battalion of Battle Armour escape into hiding following a mix-up between the Davion Heavy and Zeta Battalion.
With the battle over and a Draconis Combine Prefecture Capital in their grasp the Federated Suns forces take stock of what they have captured a prefecture capital and two major defence industries for the Draconis Combine. The cost however also hits home the First Robinson Rangers, Pride of the Draconis March, is destroyed Baron Tarncred Sandoval sends the survivors back to Robinson with one other casualty. During the heavy fighting Leftenant Duke Arthur Steiner-Davion’s Lance and the adjoining company had been singled out by a Battalion of the Fourth Proserpina Hussars, somehow they had found out Arthur was there. The entire company is destroyed and the surviving MechWarriors beheaded, Arthur is found hours later when a Robinson Ranger force arrives and secures the area. Arthur is still inside his Enforcer III killed by a stray autocannon shell that had penetrated the cockpit.
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One comment I'll make before posting the next bit, I know Clan Nova Cat and the Federated Suns get a lot of coverage in these early years. There's big reasons:
number 1) I needed to build up a few characters within these two realms, Danai Centrella, Yvonne Steiner-Davion, my own character's Canin Rosse and Zane Carns (who is based off the canon character Zane from Path of Glory) and surprisingly Victor Steiner-Davion and Morgan Hasek-Davion, the first who is now cast as a working First Prince instead of the wandering warrior and the second who survives Serpent to become the first SLDF Commanding-General
The establishment of these characters in their differing roles from Canon I saw as important markers in where the story was going
number 2) the rest of the factions have a quiet time around now rebuilding mostly, and they get plenty play in the future, I realized myself that they had less development in the story than I intended (they are fully developed in my notes but less so in the posted stories.
Enough of that, hope you enjoy and back to the story
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Very interesting DC, I gotta go back over this one again.
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Very interesting DC, I gotta go back over this one again.
Glad you like it, I've always written the timeline out like this, just always thought it was too big for the Forums :S so plenty more to come
Into the next year...
3063
Robinson (Federated Suns)
Ghost Bear Front (Draconis Combine)
1st January 3063
On Robinson hearing of Arthur’s death in combat and the success of the strike in general Duke James Sandoval calls for further assaults but Victor orders the troops to hold their ground in the captured territory and begin efforts to integrate the worlds into the Federated Suns Draconis March.
On the Draconis Combine leader Hohiro Kurita, fighting the Ghost Bears, agrees that he has lost the worlds to the Federated Suns and for now he cannot recapture them refuelling the Black Dragon Society Movement within his realm. He asks for Star League Observers and Star League troops to be sent to the region to ensure that Draconis Combine citizens and officials and any prisoners of war are allowed to return to the Draconis Combine.
Draconis March Militia Base
Bennet III, Draconis March
Federated Suns
8th January 3063
An unknown reinforced Battalion of BattleMech and Battle Armour forces with heavy aerospace support assault the Federated Suns world of Bennet III presumably for the Federated Suns annexing of Proserpina months before. During the fighting the enemy forces destroy everything in their path destroying large portions of the spaceport and the March Militia.
Leftenant Jean Graves a skilled MechWarrior, graduate of the demanding and controversial Point Barrow Academy and a graduate of Officer Candidate School lead her company, The Graves’ Dancers, through the fighting against orders to a Union-class DropShip forcing the vessel’s commander to take off and get them off the world. Although Jean says she does not remember what happened ever member of the unit tells the same story that Jean Graves knew exactly where every single shell was going to land during the chaos and saves ever single one of them from joining the rest of the militia in their deaths that night. Their commandeered DropShip burns to the jump-point where they commandeer a Merchant-class JumpShip and force its commander to take them out of the system.
Following the end of the battle and the enemy forces retreat from Bennet III the AFFS Draconis March Command on Robinson declare Jean Graves and her unit a threat to national security and charge them with Disobeying a superior’s orders, being Absent Without Leave, Damage to National Property, Theft of Property Belonging to House Davion, Damage to Property Belonging to House Davion and kidnapping of the DropShip and JumpShip crews placing a One million bounty on Jean Graves head.
Star League High Command
Kittery, Capellan March
Federated Suns
15th January 3063
SLDF Commanding-General Morgan Hasek Davion recalls the Third Brigade of the SLDF, the Twenty-eight Hussar Regiment plus attached units, to Kittery. Attaching the Second Battle Armour Battalion, formerly attached to Second Brigade and the Second BattleMech Regiment, Morgan sends the Third Brigade to the captured worlds to ensure an orderly transferral of power. The SLDF contract Group W Mercenary Regiment to assist in operations in the St Ives Compact following the end of their current Lyran contract on Solaris IV.
Morgan Hasek-Davion sends a message to New Avalon and Robinson informing Victor Steiner-Davion and Duke Sandoval of the move, Victor announces approval for the inclusion of SLDF Peacekeepers while James Sandoval is not amused that the Draconis Combine do not believe his son Tarncred would not treat prisoners properly and lodges a formal complaint but allows the move.
On Robinson Arthur Steiner-Davion’s body arrives, following approval from Victor his brother will lie in state on Robinson for a period of two months before being buried in the Robinson Royal Cemetery as per his wishes. The Draconis March see this as a great honour and his body is visited by over one million inhabitants of the March. Victor travels to Robinson with his sister Yvonne Steiner-Davion and in a private ceremony they say goodbye to their brother. Archon Katherine Steiner-Davion is invited to say goodbye to her brother but refuses to enter the Federated Suns and Peter is unreachable on Zaniah.
Illyrian Palatinate/Marian Hegemony
Periphery
19th January 3063
On the orders of his father Caesar Sean O’Reilly his son and heir to the thrown Julius O’Reilly leads a quarter of the Marian Hegemony Legions to the Illyrian Palatinate conquering the tiny group of worlds in just six months of heavy fighting. Surrender June 30th 3063. Although the more and more unstable Caesar had hoped this might get his son killed it actually rallied more support to Julius than he already had.
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Training Grounds near Castle Barcella
New Scotland, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
21st January 3063
With Victor and Yvonne both off planet visiting their brother’s body on Robinson Danai Centrella had decided that she would leave them to it, she had not known Arthur well and so had remained on New Avalon deciding to go and see the troops that had come with her from the Magistracy. These troops had come through the Clan War and to the Federated Suns into exile, sometimes she thought she didn‘t spend nearly enough time with them.
Being back in her Falconer and with the Magistracy troopers felt good there was none of the politeness of the palace just the troops and their equipment. She had chosen to exercise on the New Scotland continent, as far from the First Davion and the Tenth Lyran Guards as she could get, they were near the visiting Nova Cats but she knew the Clanners would not interfere in the exercise without an invitation. “Battalion battle-line north point four†she ordered the battalion formed up on her position but were so slow, even with better equipment, they had allowed things to slip when she was away. “Com’on people battle-line south six†she ordered again the battalion turned and formed up “east eight†she said turning the Battalion again, they were beginning to show the speed they used to have. Danai noticed the emergency communication channel for the First Davion was lit. She keyed in the channel “this is Danai Centrella†she said completely forgetting who she was talking to, when she was with her troops she dropped the ‘Duchess’ and any rank, they were her people.
“Duchess, this is Field Marshal Bishop Sortekâ€
“Go ahead Marshal†she said the day-to-day battalion commander was continuing the drill.
“Duchess, a group of DropShips bearing Capellan Confederation markings is burning towards your location. They have destroyed the WarShip Murmansk and have avoided the Fox. I have troops mobilising now but the will not get there in time.†The fact the two Fox-class Corvettes defending the system had proven ineffective would trouble the Federated Suns admiralty for a while, and Danai would have quite a bit to say about it, if she survived this.
“How large a force?â€
“At least a regiment.â€
“We will hold†she said, if it was a full regiment they could be in trouble, why would the Capellans want to attack New Avalon now? And why would they be coming after her?†Danai noticed another comm. frequency activated, an outside channel. “Hold on Field Marshal, I someone else on the line keying you in.†She said crossing the frequencies “this is Duchess Danai Centrella.â€
“Duchess Centrella, good to hear you are in good health and with your men and not the others prepare to surrender and join our forces.†A male voice said as the DropShips prepared to land, the thickly accentuated English was decidedly oriental.
“Who are you and what do you want? This is Federated Suns territory and you provoking a War by attacking us.â€
“I am clearing up some family issues you have and rescuing you from the Davion Hoard.†The voice said as the first of four Overlord-class DropShips landed.
“I have no family issues and will not be surrendering.†Danai said switching to open bandwidth communications “this is Duchess Danai Centrella of the Federated Suns" she stated clearly showing where her new loyalties laid "to the DropShips landing three kilometres north of my location on the New Scotland continent of New Avalon. You are ordered to stand-down, surrender your personnel and equipment to my forces and submit to interrogation.â€
“We will not!†the voice said, his voice now taking on a even more mandarin sounding accent, very Capellan.
“Then you are considered enemies of the Federated Suns prepare to be destroyed.†She said “Field Marshal Sortek, having you people here would be good as quickly as possible.†She said in the other frequency then switched over to her own troops before the First Davion commander could manage. “Head south people, they outnumber us at least three to one, let’s not make this easy for them.†She noticed another comm. frequency flashing “what is it?!†She shouted activating the comm. channel. As the Battalion began to turn and move away from the incoming enemy troops.
“Duchess, this is Star Colonel Canin Rosse Watch Cluster, can my people assist?†Canin Rosse asked, Danai had completely forgotten about the Nova Cats based on this remote continent.
“We are under assault by an unknown regiment of troops who have already assaulted the Federated Suns naval defence forces in system and plan to land just north of my position.†She said moving with her regiment south as the fastest elements of the enemy force charged forward. Danai could see the regiment looked very Capellan in its make up and the lead light Mechs all had the stylised skull of the Capellan’s Elite Death Commandos she said just as a pair of Aerospace Fighters carrying Capellan Confederation insignia flew past. “They appear to be the Capellan Confederation’s Death Commandos.â€
“Understood bring them to the co-ordinates I am transmitting and leave it to us.†Canin said cutting the frequency Danai read the co-ordinates they were two kilometres south east near the mouth of a deep canyon.
“People turn south east drive towards the canyon†she said her battalion began a fighting retreat targeting the Capellan light Mechs as they got close, Danai herself sent a Gauss Rifle slug and several laser blasts into a forty ton Snake disabling the Mech as the lasers weakened the left leg and the gauss slug ripped the limb clean off. ‘If they are all like that I can take them myself’ she thought as they retreated, now heavier enemy Mechs were arriving led by a fast moving fifty-five ton Men Shen OmniMech.
On the OmniMech’s back were four Fa Shih Battle Armour troopers who launched from the Capellan Mech onto her Falconer. After fighting the Clans Danai and all her MechWarriors knew how to deal with Battle Armour as they began cutting into her Mech’s armour Danai forced her Mech into a controlled fall and immediately rolled over crushing three of the four Fa Shih troopers under seventy-five tons of moving BattleMech. Picking herself she watched as one of her MechWarriors piloting a brand-new Templar OmniMech, the Federated Suns had gifted the battalion as a welcoming gift, die as a Death Commando Ti Ts’ang buried its massive axe in the Templar’s cockpit the Assault OmniMech fell backwards off the axe its cockpit nothing more than a gaping hole.
Danai turned on the sixty ton Capellan Mech firing her Gauss Rifle, PPC and four lasers into the Mech as the Falconer’s weapons burned armour and the Endo Steel Skeleton of the Ti Ts‘ang so much damage near the Extra-Light Fusion Engine was too much and the Mech exploded turning sixty tons of equipment and a pilot into a crisp. Although compromised with an overheating Mech Danai’s Mech was still faster than most Inner Sphere heavy Mechs and made it to the mouth of the canyon, there were no Nova Cat’s present. “Star Colonel Rosse, we are here†she said there was no reply as she watched the Capellans fanned out three Battalions of Mechs and another battalion of Battle Armour. The Capellans slowed to a walk as if savouring their victory “Star Colonel, we could really use your help here.†She said more desperately still no response “damn, damn, damn!†she cursed the Capellan’s had tricked her, they had somehow faked up the Nova Cat commander’s voice and now her troops were stuck, how the Capellans had even known about the Nova Cat presence on the planet was a complete mystery. Their only chance was to run into the canyon and hope there was an exit “in the canyon now!†She ordered the Magistracy troops retreated into the narrow canyon although it would allow the Capellans to move above them and behind the Magistracy Battalion would always have a way out at the far end for an hour they evaded the Capellans until they reached a box-canyon, the end of the road a few of the Magistracy troops could use their Mech’s jump jets, Danai included, to escape the Canyon but that would leave the others to be slaughtered and although the Magistracy troops could probably hold the Capellans in the canyon they could not hold the troops moving above the canyon. They only thing they could do is try to survive until the First Davion or Tenth Lyran arrived to break the Capellan unit.
Meanwhile the Jiang-jun Michael Hyung-Tsei was thinking this was his easiest job ever, whoever this Star Colonel the Canopian whore was talking about he wasn’t turning up and the inept periphery troops had driven themselves into a box canyon which although gave them good cover soon his troops would have surrounded them. There was suddenly a scream on the Death Commando comm. frequency from some of the outlaying elements then dead. “Report!†the commander screamed the Davions could not have gotten here yet their agents in Avalon City had disabled over dozen DropShips and ground transport was notoriously bad on this planet. More of his troops disappeared from the screens someone was attacking them, probably just a passing Davion patrol or Aerospace forces on runs but he couldn’t see them or get an accurate picture of what was going on. This left one thing for him to do “FOR THE CHANCELLOR!†He shouted driving his ninety ton Yu Huang forward at full speed into the box canyon “full assault I want the Duchess secured or dead now!†The other Death Commandos quickly moved with him faster Mechs charging into the Canyon slower Mechs following him in.
“Victor, I love you†Danai whispered her Gauss Rifle was down to the last three shots and many of her troops were completely out of ammo there was no help for them only for them to stay at the back of the Canopian lines and when the Capellans moved into melee range try to engage them in hand-to-hand combat. As the next wave of Capellans moved forward Danai fired her last few shots then waited for the slaughter with only her PPC and three active lasers for defence most Medium Mechs would overpower that kind of armament and even her jump jets were now offline damaged in one of the running battles they had fought in the canyon and left unnoticed and unused Danai switched them to idle ensuring they would not be triggered in the damaged state which could end up killing her by her own battle educed mistake.
Above Star Colonel Canin Rosse was ready for his big entrance however, the Duchess’ battalion had moved faster than he had expected and the Capellans had pushed them further into the canyon so he had to reorganise. They were finally ready, the fighters and DropShips had gone to attack the Death Command DropShips on the ground and defenceless while his armour troops had began to systematically take out the two battalions deployed above the canyon. Activating their jump jets Canin led a team of five Mechs and fifty Elementals launched into the canyon, using controlled bursts they landed just ahead of the Canopians “Battle-line now! No-one gets through, full push move!†Canin said the Nova Cats certainly did go to work led by five heavy and assault OmniMechs the fifty Elementals began swarming every Mech they could get close to, five troopers per Mech. “Sorry we are late Duchess, stay behind me.†Canin said triggering both Heavy Large Lasers, the oversized opal-silver beams sliced into a Death Commando medium Mech like a knife in hot butter, they were the centre armament of the Dragon Cat Charlie Configuration and although they produced a lot of heat Canin liked them, guided by the Dragon Cat‘s standard targeting computer they could be used to their full potential and the oversized laser beams produced one of the highest damage ratios in all the Clans. Against Clan opponents the Heavy Laser suffered from a lack of range however against the Inner Sphere most of the time they were equal in range leaving it down to the skills of the pilot to win the fight and Canin knew that ninety percent of the time Inner Sphere pilots had not chance in matching him or any of the other Nova Cats.
“Better late than never, although I did begin to wonder†Danai replied tears were running down her cheeks, as she watched the Nova Cat Elementals and Mechs go to work she began to understand why Yvonne and the McKinnons trusted the Nova Cats so much. She had seen the Clans fight on dozens of occasions during the Clan War and every time they had frightened her, this time included. Unlike the Jade Falcon or Smoke Jaguars the Nova Cat Elementals did not sadistically move from cockpit to cockpit killing downed pilots who refused to surrender but their shots, especially their laser shots, were deadly accurate with almost every shot disabling a weapon or actuator on an enemy picking them to pieces.
The new OmniMech the Nova Cat Star Colonel certainly did the job it was asked to she though watching as twelve missiles launched from deep within the Mechs chest and fire blossomed over the next Capellan Mech with twelve successful hits, she wondered if Victor could secure a couple of Regiments of them, that would give our enemies something to worry about she thought as the Dragon Cat tore another medium Capellan Mech to pieces with its lasers, these Nova Cats were not adhering to the duelling rules of the Clans, Zellbrigen, which made them even more dangerous.
“Well we had a little trouble finding a good point to make a real entrance, you certainly do move quickly.†Canin said triggering only one Heavy laser and one Extended-Range Medium laser to allow the heat sinks deal with the heat his Mech had built up from the first couple of salvos “also I had to direct some forces to their DropShips, would not want any of these dezgra escaping†he said looking at the comm. frequency it was set to general broadcast so the Death Commandos could hear as well ‘good’ Canin though keying in his Light TAG laser, the Dragon Cat was designed to be a command Mech and came with all the perks that involved including lots of electronics.
Moments later an Arrow IV Missiles slammed into a Capellan Emperor flattening the Assault Mech. Watching the Emperor explode the Jiang-jun Michael Hyung-Tsei heard this so-called Clansmen say the DropShips were under attack and began to pull back his forces, they were fanatically loyal to their Chancellor but being captured on New Avalon had not been part of the plan. Four DropShips destroyed fighting the Murmansk was more than enough to capture this Canopian bitch.
“We have them on the run, kill them all†Canin roared seeing the Capellan retreat driving forward firing at multiple targets as he went, the DropShips and fighters were under orders to disable or destroy the DropShips then hunt down every enemy Mech they detected, as far as the Nova Cats were concerned this was a Trial of Annihilation against the invading force. Canin spotted a large Capellan Mech, about ninety-to-ninety-five tons he charged at the Mech firing both Heavy Large Lasers then both Extended-Range Medium lasers then both six-tube ATM launchers, the attack devastated the Capellan Mech although it did not fall instead as Canin’s Mech overheated and began to shutdown the Capellan Mech moved forward closer its big left arm raising, Canin was sure this was his end that he would be beaten in the background he could hear Danai Centrella and several other Nova Cats scream warnings but the Dragon Cat was severely overheated there was nothing Canin could do as the Capellan Mech finished raising its weapons to firing position he closed his eyes ready for the end.
The pilot of the lead Clan Mech that had landed in front of Danai Centrella had charged forward and devastated the Jiang-jun Michael Hyung-Tsei’s Yu Huang however he had also overheated his own Mech as the Death Commando raised his massive assault autocannon to fire he took his time savouring the moment. Just then the front of the assault Mech was engulfed in a massive explosion as a large missile slammed into the Mech.
Canin felt his Mech buffeted by an explosion and was sure that was the Death Commando Mech firing however then there was nothing instead the Mech came back alive and Canin looked at the sensors of the cooled Mech, the Yu Huang lay dead on the ground “who the hell killed that Mech?†He asked, his Mech had been in the way of a clear shot.
“You did†Danai said “the TAG your Mech carries was still active†she said Canin looked at the Light TAG laser, the Dragon Cat’s systems showed the laser was dead damaged earlier in the fight. “The loss of that Mech broke their backs the Capellans are in full retreat and I have word that elements of the First Davion and the Tenth Lyran are en-route and being directed to their DropShips by your armour forces.†Danai said as she moved her Falconer up alongside Canin’s Dragon Cat. “Thank you for the save Star Colonel, I can see why you have so many admirers among the people here, I just became one of them.†With their DropShips disabled by the Nova Cat fighters and DropShips the Capellans had nowhere to run. Thirty Death Commandos were captured over the next two hours, eight of them captured by the Nova Cats. Two enemy warriors remained unaccounted for.
Front Lines
Ghost Bear/Draconis Combine War
23rd January 3063
The Draconis Combine strikes at four Ghost Bear Dominion worlds Stemwerde, Ardoz Kernice and retakes Kiesen securing all in fast Trials of Possession. Coordinator Hohiro Kurita standing on Stemwerde two jumps from Alshain sends the Ghost Bear capital a message via HPG that he wants to end the conflict began with the dishonourable actions of his troops. The Ghost Bear Khans reply saying they will stop the conflict when they see fit and attack the world of Byesville, DCMS troops on planet hold firm.
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Zi-jin Cheng, Forbidden City
Sian, Capellan Confederation
25th January 3063
The Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation was not pleased the Death Commandos, his ‘elite’ guard had failed to secure one person from the clutches of the Federated Suns and his nemesis Victor Steiner-Davion. To make matters the St Ives Compact was still holding out even with the Trinity Alliance support and the Capellan WarShip fleet.
For now it was damage control looking at the Tri-Vid recorder he nodded and the tech switched on the recorder “In response for the accusations levelled at the Capellan Confederation that Death Commando troops invaded the Federated Suns, and even the capital system of that planet New Avalon, I prove to you this is a lie.†He said stepping over to four guards all in Death Commando uniform “this is Jiang-jun Michael Hyung-Tsei commander of the Death Commandos†he said at the first man, who looked nothing like the Death Commando commander but then Death Commando identities were kept secret. “As you can see he is here with three of his men defending the Forbidden City from Davion spies and would-be assassins. This evidence the Federated Suns claim to have is obviously fabricated and I welcome Star League Observers to Sian to see the Death Commandos in their splendour.†He said as the Tri-Vid recorder cut our, the Red Lancer Regiment was at this very moment repainting its equipment down stairs. “Package that and post it following the Davion claims of the Death Commando raid.†Sun-Tzu said glaring the tech nodded and took the recorder away “get out!†Sun-Tzu shouted suddenly at the four Red Lancers dressed like Death Commandos. “Zahn!†he shouted at the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces field commander.
“Yes, excellency!†Talon Zahn said stepping from behind the throne.
“Strike the Death Commandos from the rolls permanently. Burn all reference to them and form a new guard.â€
“What shall this new guard be called?â€
“The Anti-Victor Steiner-Davion Squad†Sun-Tzu said Talon didn’t question the name as he walked towards the exit, the Capellan Chancellor would change it when he saw fit, for now the name would be a state secret. “On second thought†Sun-Tzu said “call it the Centrella Black Guards.†Sun-Tzu said as Naomi Centrella entered in a beautiful silver dress.
“What’s this?†The Magistracy of Canopus leader asked hearing her family name, she knew nothing of the Death Commando raid.
“The new name of my Death Commandos, the Centrella Black Guards†Sun-Tzu said walking up to her wrapping his arms around her waist “you like?†He asked.
“Yes†she said as he kissed her “Talon, you can leave†Naomi said it wasn’t a question Talon Zahn nodded and left, he didn’t like getting bossed about by the Periphery leader but had decided months before that there was no point in fighting the inevitable, Naomi Centrella and Sun-Tzu would marry and Naomi would become his boss, at least she would be more sane than Sun-Tzu sometimes was, then again recently Naomi had shown she had her own sadistic streak Talon stopped for a moment thinking about Naomi as worse than Sun-Tzu a shudder ran down his spine as he began hurrying along, that was a scary thought. Sun-Tzu’s denial of Death Commando attack launched two days later when Victor Steiner-Davion complains to SLDF and increases Federated Suns presence in St Ives Compact to five Regiments increasing the resistance given to the Invading Capellan Forces.
SLS Covenant, Bridge
Nadir Jump Point
Sirius, Sirian Concordance
28th January 3063
Morgan Hasek-Davion could feel he was getting too old for this constant travelling between planets, no sooner had he arrived on Proserpina with the Twenty-eighth Hussar Regiment and Third Brigade had a message caught up with him requesting his presence in the newly christened Sirian Concordance, a breakaway state of the Free Worlds League. The Sirians were requesting immediate aid from the SLDF and in return they were willing to allow SLDF troops to be garrisoned on the Sirian Concordance worlds permanently. This was an opportunity that Morgan could not allow to slip through his grasp so he had begun travelling to Sirius.
En route he had been joined by the SLS Covenant, the Star League’s newest WarShip, the former Kirishima was now modified to Star League needs and Morgan had named it Covenant just before he had left Kittery. The ship modified at New Syrtis shipyards and was near completion when Morgan had been asked to deploy forces to the Draconis Combine/Federated Suns border. The ship’s new commander Commodore Anders Hellenic had put the ship into service and they had followed Morgan’s JumpShip, when Morgan had gotten detoured they had changed course and intercepted now he would arrive in the Sirius system in style.
Now on the final leg of the journey the Covenant entered the Sirius system only to be confronted by a Free Worlds League Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser. As alert sirens sounded throughout the ship Morgan moved to the bridge, despite his journey to and from the Clan Homeworlds he was still uncomfortable moving in zero-gravity. Reaching the Covenant’s bridge Morgan took quick stock of the status screens and at the holo-tank which gave them a full three dimensional view of the surrounding space with the Covenant dead centre. “Visitors, have they hailed us?†He asked moving to the holo-tank.
“Negative, as soon as we dropped in system they deployed all four of their DropShip, all Assault craft, and a squadron of fighters. No sensor screens or weapon lock-ons. I have DropShips ready and pilots in their fighters but nothing launched.†Anders Hellenic said, Morgan could see the Commodore’s hand hovering over the comm. frequency one word from Morgan would launch everything the Covenant had and then they would be in a real stand-off. Looking back to the holo-tank there was four medium-sized blips near the Agamemnon representing the DropShips and six smaller aircraft moving around in a large circular pattern.
“Okay so they want us to play the first ball.†Morgan said from what he could remember of the Agamemnon’s firepower it outgunned the lighter Covenant, had more DropShips and the same amount of fighters but lacked armour to survive drawn out combat and lacked speed to keep up with an opponent. “They want us to hover here in a stand-off, there are people on Sirius that need our help. All ahead full.â€
“Aye, sir. Weapons status and fighter status.â€
“We are not here to make war Commodore. All weapons stand-by, as soon as we reach flank speed stand-down your fighters and the DropShip crews.†Morgan said Anders did not look convinced but gave the orders and the Covenant’s massive drive engines roared into life quickly accelerating past 1G, 2G reaching 2.5G its safe cruising flank speed if need be the Covenant could accelerate up to 4G however that kind of speed could stress the engines and was very uncomfortable for crew and passengers.
As the vessel was passing the Free Worlds League Heavy Cruiser at under five hundred metres the crew held a collective breath if the Agamemnon wanted to attack now would be the time. The Covenant accelerated past the vessel the Free Worlds League WarShip Skipper unwilling to start an interstellar incident held fire and the Covenant continued to accelerate. Within the hour the Covenant was deep in the system and the Agamemnon was leaving the system, the Free Worlds League would have to rethink their strategy with the Sirius Concordance.
Primus Helen Thrall’s Office
Lost Hope, Sirius
Sirian Concordance, Chaos March
30th January 3063
Three days later the Covenant established orbit over Sirius IV and Morgan Hasek-Davion’s DropShip dropped down on the battered world of Sirius IV-a, the moon of the planet. Of the three settlements in the system Sirius IV-a was the most habitable and most populous and the location of system and Concordance government. Landing Morgan could see that the moon colony was in bad shape and before he had even reached the government buildings he had decided that this would be a protectorate.
Entering the building Morgan heard the door pressurise behind him before he, his bodyguard and two clerks were allowed in the main building, even with the breathable atmosphere the buildings were still pressurised due to the low pressure outside. Looking at the living condition and standard of life reports on the system Morgan had wondered why anyone would want to live there then read deeper into the report although the system had nearly no heavy industries it made more gross national profit (GNP) than some of the Succession Lords major planets. This was due to the massive natural resources the planets of the system had. Because life was so harsh in the system its full potential had never been tapped out like so many other core worlds of the Inner Sphere.
Clearing the airlock Morgan saw General Helen Thrall standing there waiting for them since the liberation of the Sirian Concordance worlds she had been holding political office however she remained in her military uniform effectively forming a military dictatorship. “Welcome to Sirius Four Alpha, Commanding-General. I hope our shadow did not interfere with your entrance†she said obviously referring to the WarShip. As Morgan entered she indicated for them to walk.
“They did not interfere, I think they realised who we were and what was going on, and thankfully they did not have orders to interfere with a Star League vessel.â€
“I am glad, perhaps you will be able to stay and see exactly what our needs are, and this is only the Sirius system.â€
“I will be here for as long is necessary. On board the Covenant we have supplies that the DropShips will begin to bring down and the Battle Armour Battalions can distribute.†He said Lieutenant-General Harry Sanders had deployed two Battalions of Battle Armour to the Sirian Concordance for humanitarian and security. So far from reading reports Morgan feared that the entire SLDF could be based here and still it would take decades to sort out. “On top of that I want to officially make the Sirian Concordance a Star League Protectorate and declare an immediate state of emergency. As soon as possible I will call for the Advisory Council to direct full SLDF support to these worlds.†He said as they entered an office.
“We have not even begun negotiating yet†Helen Thrall said surprised sitting down behind the desk which was covered in reports.
“You asked Lieutenant-General Harry Sanders for Protectorate Status I have confirmed it, now the SLDF troops based here are legally based here the Free Worlds League cannot say we have over-stepped our boundaries. Now we can begin to negotiate.â€
“What should we negotiate over? I wanted protectorate status and you have given it to me, I wanted Star League support and you have given that to us as well. What more could I want?†Helen Thrall said, she was obviously happy Morgan was giving her everything for nothing and now was looking for a catch.
“How about membership in the reborn Star League?†Morgan said getting straight to the point.
“Membership? The Concordance is far to small, too new a nation for such a move.†She said the Concordance was four worlds, at present the smallest Star League nation was the St Ives Compact with seventeen worlds.â€
“It would not be full membership, you or any leader of the Concordance could not be First Lord. However your military would be eligible for inclusion in the Star League. The Star League would be forced to garrison your worlds and maintain your troops.†Morgan said, he was looking to gain the three Sirian Lancer Regiments in the Concordance for his SLDF. They would not be combat capable for another decade but it would increase the size, strength and prestige of the Star League making it a bigger force in the Inner Sphere and would allow him to concentrate forces making bigger better impacts in Inner Sphere politics.
“My troops are fiercely loyal to their homes, they would not make good international organisations.â€
“I have not heard one bad report about them working with my Battle Armour Battalions.†Morgan pointed out, the reports actually said that the Sirian Lancer Regiments were going out of their way to accommodate the SLDF troops. “And there would be provisions for your regiments. They would not be deployed away from the Sirian Concordance until all are brought up to full strength a process I am told will take a minimum of six years. Even when they are deployed away from the Concordance one Regimental Brigade will always be left in the Concordance. The Sirian Division will be commanded by a Sirian Concordance born where possible. And if the Sirian Lancer regiments do not want someone in their unit, that person will be transferred into another unit with no question asked and no posting on that persons SLDF Record.â€
“You have obviously thought about this for a while Commanding-General†Helen Thrall said quietly thinking.
“Allow me to take your troops off the wage bill and resource drain and you can put your full attention to rebuilding your worlds and if the Free Worlds League or anyone else decides to cause trouble the Star League can put its full force behind defending you.†He said the argument was promising and two days later the Sirian Lancers and the Sirian Concordance as a whole accepted Star League membership. Morgan Hasek-Davion made the announcement to the entire Inner Sphere of the step forward the Inner Sphere had taken today and welcomed the Sirian Lancer Regiments into the SLDF placing all three Regiments in a separate Division from the other SLDF Units Morgan’s first act was to announce General Helen Thrall as commander of the Division. His second act was to warn the Free Worlds League and any other nation to stay away from the Sirian Concordance unless they were delivering humanitarian supplies and he calls for the Star League Council to immediately offer aid to the Concordance worlds.
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Yes this is Great Book time
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Yes this is Great Book time
;D Here's more
Half-forgotten, half-buried Supply Depot
Astrokaszy, Periphery
5th February 3063
After spending months jumping from system-to-system avoiding Inner Sphere and Periphery forces Clan Nova Cat’s Delta Galaxy under the command of saKhan Karl Devalis arrives in orbit of the pirate world of Astrokaszy with four Nova Cat WarShips in support Delta Galaxy secure spaceborn supremacy in the system quickly and begin scanning for a specific signal. Buried deep in the vaults on Strana Mechty the Nova Cat Khans found something when they were looking at the Periphery near the Inner Sphere as a new home. The desert world Astrokaszy used to be used as a weapons proving ground by the first Star League and so on the world there were hundreds of weapon vaults. One in specific the Nova Cats wanted to find intact and deal with themselves quickly and efficiently.
After six hours of scanning and fending off three attacks by groups of fighters and DropShips the Nova Cats discover what they are looking for. A depot directly below a large pirate encampment although interrogating the depot’s defence systems proves the base is still secure the Nova Cats cannot take the chance that it will remain so. The whole of Delta Galaxy drop on the pirate base, four Elite Clusters of troops go to work annihilating an entire combined arms regiment of troops calling themselves the Order of the Faithful and a Cluster of former Clansmen who had been attracted to the area by the signal and began unearthing the place with the aid of hundreds of slaves. Evacuating the slaves the Nova Cats pull back to a safe distance while the Lucian Carns, Clan Nova Cat’s second Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, moved into position. With thunderous destruction and accuracy the Lucian Carns Naval Lasers cut a path directly to the depots heavily armoured doors. SaKhan Karl Devalis keys in the correct code and the doors spring open. Inside they find a Divisions worth of Nighthawk XIX Power Armour (Light) Suits once used by the special forces of the original Star League Defence force.
These suits although a bonus are not the main target with the Nighthawks are two hundred nuclear warheads each capable of doing massive damage to military or civilian targets. Karl Devalis orders his troops to initiate ‘Nova Cat General Order 000’ and order that has existed since the Not-Named Clan used a Nuclear weapon to level the Snow Raven Genetic Repository Centuries before.
As the Nova Cats load the weapons onboard one of their Overlord-class DropShips an unknown force, at battalion strength, piloting advanced BattleMechs, vehicles and battle armour all painted white attack and try to seize the DropShip. With most of Delta Galaxy securing the Nighthawks and the nuclear weapons saKhan Karl Devalis leads his command Keshik and the 119th Striker Cluster against the force intent on holding the enemy force back the Cluster takes severe damage. When a laser penetrates Devalis’ OmniMech’s head injuring the saKhan, this drives the Nova Cat Cluster into a frenzy eliminating the entire force although it destroys the remains of the cluster.
Once all warheads are aboard the DropShip and the Nova Cats have loaded all the Nighthawk suits they offer as many of the slaves as possible a chance at a better life, three hundred-and-fifty accept the call. The Nova Cat DropShips leave the planet and the entire force heads for the systems sun. En Route saKhan Karl Devalis dies onboard the DropShip carrying the nukes, his wish is for his body to be buried aboard the nuclear DropShip.
Three days later near the star the Nova Cats evacuate the DropShip carrying the Nukes and send it on a course to impact with the star - General Order 000 is the destruction of all Nuclear, Biological and Chemical weapons ever discovered by a Nova Cat force. The one of the Carrack Merchant-class ships that had accompanied Delta Galaxy, the Pathfinder accompanies the vessel to the star where it will evacuate all Nova Cat personnel and shoot down the DropShip burning it and its deadly cargo up in the Star‘s fiery core.
For six hours the journey goes smoothly then trouble erupts when a Riga-class Frigate enters the system and tries to intercept the DropShip. The Pathfinder although not a proper combat WarShip engages the Frigate trying to buy the DropShip crew time as they gun the engines and try to destroy the DropShip and themselves. The Pathfinder is destroyed in a single volley from the Riga’s main guns and the Frigate moves in on the DropShip intent on capturing the vessel and its deadly cargo. Although there is little hope the DropShip crew continue towards the star setting a direct collision course and smashing all control that could turn the vessel around.
The Riga soon catches the Overlord and marines quickly board the vessel killing the skeleton Nova Cat crew and detonating charges around the ship engines cutting thrust long enough for the Riga to move in for the capture. Unfortunately for the Riga that gave the Lucian Carns time to close in with its massive fighter screen fully deployed the mighty Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser obliterates the Riga in a very one sided fight and then the Lucian Carns sends the DropShip into the Star with the enemy marines still aboard destroying the destructive cargo and the would be thieves.
At its heart the Lucian Carns although transformed into the Anna Rosse-class by the Nova Cats was still an Avatar-class Cruiser that had served the first Star League checking thought records the Nova Cats find the enemy vessel was registered as the Red Angel. Knowing of only ComStar and the Word of Blake to field Star League-era vessels the Nova Cats declare the ComGuards and the Word of Blake as Rogue agencies and declares that any Nova Cat force that encounters them is to destroy them on sight. As far as Delta Galaxy survivors are concerned a State of War exists between the Nova Cats and both ComStar and Word of Blake.
Detroit
New Colony Region
Periphery
13th February 3063
Following heavy raider activity, rumours of heavy combat on Astrokaszy, a degenerating relationship with the Taurian Concordat and the New Colony Region making noise about their independence the Magistracy of Canopus garrisons Detroit the site of a Capellan BattleMech factory situated inside the New Colony region. The Taurians protest however the Capellans support the move making Taurian wants and needs a distant noise.
Snow Raven Controlled Space
Lum Shipyards, Lum
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
15th February 3063
After over a year of refit Clan Snow Raven’s Nightlord-class Battleship Snow Raven slips out of the Snow Raven’s Lum Shipyards in the Kerensky Cluster, the shipyards the largest in known space are reputed to be the best in human space. The Snow Raven immediately fights and wins several trials against the Snow Ravens neighbours showing the new Nightlord II’s potential. The other Clans that field Nightlords immediately attempt to gain favour with the Snow Raven Clan hoping to gain access to this new upgrade or attempt to fight trials for the plans. Unusually for the Snow Ravens they flatly refuse to help any other Clan with their upgrades of WarShip fleets, or use of their shipyards, instead keeping to themselves and putting extra resources into hiding their own movements forcing the other Clans to fight trials over the use of the shipyards and for the redesign.
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First Prince‘s Office, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
23rd February 3063
Following the Death Commando attack Victor had returned to New Avalon and was relieved to see that Danai was fine, although the battalion of troops that had accompanied her from the Magistracy had been devastated by the battle. Without reinforcements from home there was little choice but to fold it into the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT. Fortunately as the Tenth was also a unit far from home the merger of the two units brought the Revenants back up to full strength. Following a DMI report on the battle Victor had been surprised to hear that the Nova Cats who had been instrumental in protecting Danai had only taken some Capellan Mech salvage and six of the Death Commando pilots as bondsmen as a reward, also two Magistracy MechWarriors had asked to join the Nova Cat Watch Cluster and Star Colonel Canin Rosse had accepted them as Nova Cat abtankha warriors, loosely translated as "adopted warriors." Talking to Danai and other members of the AFFS on New Avalon Victor began to see that despite all the fighting of the Clan War, even she had accepted the Nova Cat troops.
Sitting in his work office above the throne room was reading various reports on the newly captured Draconis Combine worlds, which had switched hands dozens of times over the centuries, seemed to be adjusting the Federated Suns rule well. The presence of SLDF troops had ensured there was no trouble from either the population or the Federated Suns troops. The Davion Heavy Guards and Wolf’s Dragoons Zeta Battalion were continuing anti-insurgency missions as there was still several platoons of Draconis Combine battle armour loose on the planets.
The office doors opened and his aide Leftenant Carmen Ibanez stepped in “sire, General Steiner to see you.†She said Victor nodded and Carmen fully opened the doors allowing Reinhart Steiner into the office. With the commander of The Revenants in the office Carmen closed the door behind her.
“How can I help you Reinhart?†Victor asked as Reinhart moved closer to the table but remained at attention.
“Sire, the Tenth Lyran Guards are proud to have served you and will continue to do so†Reinhart started Victor nodded, he didn’t know where this was going and remained silent. “We are also very proud of our traditions and history, the Tenth Lyran have traditionally been the Guard unit of the Lyran Archon, it was the main reason you joined us in the first place.†Victor nodded he had been brought up to be Archon-Prince of the united Federated Commonwealth, because of his Lyran education he had been assigned to a Lyran RCT, the Tenth Lyran was the unit of Lyran Nobility, unfortunately his birthright as Lyran Archon had not panned out the way he'd wanted largely to his own mistakes.
“You should be proud Reinhart, the Revenants have a long tradition of service and I am very proud you have chosen to remain with me following the Clan War.†Victor said, the last thing he wanted was for the Tenth Lyran to decided that they wished to return to the Lyran Alliance to serve the Archon.
“And we will gladly continue to serve the Federated Suns, this is our home now†Reinhart said for a Steiner Victor could see the pain it caused Reinhart to admit that the Lyran realm was no longer home. He wondered quietly if Frederick Steiner had thought something similar in the past but that wasn't for Reinhart's ears. “Its just the Lyran designation reminds us of our failure to the Lyran realm" he continued "and sets us apart from the other units of your… our realm.†He stammered, in all the time Victor had known his Reinhart Steiner did not stammer or become flustered so immediately Victor knew how much this troubled his friend.
“It is not your failure Reinhart. If anything it is mine†Victor admitted, it had been his choices that had opened the door and allowed Katherine to take control of the Lyran realm forcing Victor and the Tenth Lyran into exile. “The High Command have been discussing the Tenth Lyran, especially since the RCT is over strength there has been talk of cashiering the unit†he notice Reinhart did not like the idea, the Revenants were like family to each other with most of the unit originating in the Lyran realm they held each other together and fought best together. “However, I put an end to those plans the Revenants will never be broken up as long as I am First Prince.†Victor promised “leave this with me Reinhart and I will find a solution personally.†Victor said standing behind the desk Reinhart nodded saluted, with a traditional Lyran open palm salute to the forehead then left, Victor returned the salute, using the traditional Suns salute finger-tips to the forehead, then watched the Lyran general leave he sat back down.
To be honest Victor had thought of this before and there were a few different solutions, with one that Victor personally liked, first thing he did was recall Marshal of Armies Jackson Davion to the Palace then recall Field Marshal Bishop Sortek from the First Davion Guards. After six hours of discussion Victor recalled Reinhart Steiner to the palace with him Marshal James McFarland the overall commander of the Tenth Lyran RCT also came. They were joined by Leftenant-General Russell Payne, commander of the New Avalon Militia. “You came to me and asked for a solution to the Revenants solution.†Victor said raising “so I have decided to merge the Tenth Lyran with the New Avalon Militia effectively forming a double Mech regiment.†Reinhart, James McFarland and Russell Payne looked at each exchanged glances. “We will then split the unit into two Regimental Combat Teams which will be named the First and Second New Avalon Guards RCTs. Both units will be risen to full strength and be directly attached to the Davion Royal Brigade of Guards, they will also share duties with the First Davion Guards RCT in defending the Royal Palace and other locations on New Avalon.†The officers all looked at each other. “James, I need you to take command of the Second RCT with Russell here commanding your Mech Regiment.†He said turning to the Tenth Lyran commander, James McFarland, James had been Victor’s choice for command of the Revenants when he left and the previous commander retired he was the perfect RCT commander good in the field and perfect in administration. James looked to Russell shook his hand and saluted Victor without saying a word. “Reinhart Steiner, congratulations†Victor said stepping forward in front of the General “when you talk to your father next make sure to mention it is Marshal Reinhart Steiner who is calling†Victor said handing over the epaulets and the Marshal baton making him commander of the First New Avalon Guards RCT. Reinhart’s promotion, at twenty-eight years old, made him the youngest Marshal, outside the Royal family, in the history of the AFFS the fact he was a Steiner by blood made it even better as far as Victor was concerned.
“Thank you, sir, I won‘t let you down†Reinhart said looking at the shoulder epaulets each with four bars and the marshal baton. Reinhart had been happy commanding the Tenth Lyran Guards Mech Regiment but knew he was ready for command of a full RCT.
“I know, I’m certain that both New Avalon Guards RCTs will prove to be some of the best units in the AFFS. You all have my full support. The Tenth Lyran Guards RCT will be removed from the rolls of the AFFS, but it will not be forgotten.†He promised, all the officers in the room saluted the Tenth's banner as it was rolled closed for the last time.
Avalon Hussar Command, Fox’s Den
Davion Mountains, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
26th February 3063
The Fox’s Den was the command centre of the whole AFFS, the hub of all activity in the Federated Suns, named for Hanse ‘the Fox’ Davion was the command centre the Fourth Succession War was planned and controlled from and where the Federated Suns received all data on the Clans from during the Invasion in 3050. Although there were command centres in the Draconis March and Capellan March and there were individual commands in Regional Command Centres, normally covering every six to ten worlds, the Fox’s Den was the centre of all command near the Davion Royal Palace the Fox‘s Den received orders first and distributed it throughout the Federated Suns and beyond.
Inside the Fox’s Den each Regimental Brigade was represented and many of the overall Brigade Commanders. Inside the office of the Avalon Hussar command Field Marshal Roger William Waters sat reading the report delivered to each brigade commander from the First Prince, Waters had commanded the Avalon Hussars for nearly a decade and was probably the most secure of all the AFFS High Command members.
The document covered news relating to the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT. The Lyran Regiment, that had accompanied Victor almost since the beginning of his career and had chosen the Federated Sun over the Lyran realm, was to be merged with the New Avalon Militia and then broken into two brand-new veteran commands under the name First and Second New Avalon Guards. Because of the name Field Marshal Waters expected the regiments to fall under his Brigade Command. The Avalon Hussars had seven Regiments each building to Regimental Combat Teams, roughly five were now RCTs, to have two more RCTs would have made the Avalon Hussars the biggest, most powerful and most prestigious in the entire AFFS.
Reading further Waters noticed that Reinhart Steiner, the upstart from the Lyran Alliance half of Victor’s family had been promoted to full Marshal and would command one RCT while Victor’s lackey Marshal James McFarland would control the other RCT meaning the First Prince would have a lot of command and sway over both units. Then Waters noticed the last part just as an applause entered the main command room, the two RCTs would fall under the Davion Royal Brigade’s purview and would be commanded by Field Marshal Bishop Sortek!
Looking out he saw that Bishop Sortek was taking his applause well, Waters refused to join the applause remaining within his office the formation of two new RCTs under the Avalon name and not placed under the Avalon Hussars command was a direct affront to the Brigade and him. The Avalon Hussars were one of the oldest and most professional military organisations in the entire Federated Suns if not the entire Inner Sphere and now the First Prince was shutting them out of a new development, this wouldn’t be the last thing that would be heard about this.
Kraken, Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser
Tortuga Prime, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
12th March 3063
The first wave of Diamond Shark ground troops and scientists arrived in the Nova Cat’s Den and the Tortuga system one of three systems that the Diamond Sharks would help the Nova Cats terraform and the world they would at least temporarily land a garrison on.
The Kraken and the Potemkin-class vessels like it were designed as a Troop Carrier for up to twenty-five DropShips and over one hundred thousand tons of cargo. The Star League had used them like massive spaceborn cities during their travel to the worlds that would become the Pentagon Worlds, the first worlds colonized by the Star League Army in Exile. The Clans had modified them back to their Troop Carrier configurations and Clan Diamond Shark controlled the most of the vessels. The Kraken still carried equipment that the Clans used in the first major terraforming work done on the Pentagon Worlds just after the Star League had arrived.
SaKhan Angus Labov and Star Colonel Hanna Coston, commander of the Seventy-sixth Strike Cluster, stood on the observation deck as they watched a Nova Cat Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser enter the system joining the Fredasa-class Corvette already in system. “Our shadow†the saKhan muttered watching the Aegis extend its jump-sail.
“Cannot blame the Nova Cat for wanting to defend their new home, especially considering the location.†Hanna Coston said “I will take a the cluster down to Tortuga, set up our base and start work on Tortuga. In a month we will begin on another world then a month after that we will move to the last world.â€
“Very good Star Colonel, stay good friends with the Nova Cats on planet, the more information we can get from them the better position we will be in for the long term. Kraken will be available. I am going over to the Nova Cat JumpShip and then onto the Nova Cat capital, apparently they will not give even us the location of the world.â€
“Paranoia, you would almost expect this to be the Blood Spirits or Fire Mandrills instead of Nova Cats.†Hanna said Angus sort of understood it, the Nova Cats had everything out here they were very exposed. The Diamond Sharks would never betray the Nova Cats but he understood their reluctance to allowing others into their capital system.
“Good Luck Star Colonel†Angus said, an hour later she was on her way in-system with four Diamond Shark DropShips beginning their work in setting up a terraforming station and setting up a small base for their cluster and their scientists.
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Farstar Colony
Periphery
21st March 3063
Travelling to the Nova Cat’s Den from the Clan Homeworlds was the Nova Cat’s Sigma Galaxy. Originally the Diamond Shark Kraken would have accompanied them but the vessel was called to do a job for the Sharks before being handed over the Nova Cats. Because the WarShip would need clearance one of Sigma Galaxies two WarShips had been called away to escort the Diamond Shark Potemkin leaving only a the Vincent Mk-42 Corvette Righteous Return in escort duty. There was little worry with the Draconis Combine fighting the Ghost Bears none of their WarShips or military units would be searching the far periphery borders and Sigma Galaxy were far closer to the Draconis Combine this time than they were last time, far from Columbus Base.
Galaxy Commander Kelly Hardo, commander of Sigma Galaxy, was in one of the Righteous Return’s zero-gravity gyms that had been set up in the vessels carnivorous cargo bay because the gravity deck was small on the Vincent. Bondswoman Kamesota walked up to her, she was short but strong with strong Japanese features, she had been taken captive when the Galaxy was travelling the other way from the Nova Cat’s Den to the Homeworlds when they had encountered a small DCMS Explorer Corps vessel, Kamesota had adapted well to the Nova Cat way. “What is it Kamesota?†Kelly asked not angrily but harsher than she would have meant.
“Sumimasen†she said in her native Japanese it meant ‘I am sorry’ but it annoyed Kelly when she reverted to Japanese, mainly because Kelly did not speak the language herself “Galaxy Commander, my apologies the ship’s commander sent me down to see you. The Righteous Return detected a small vessel watching us, when our fighters gave chase it ran.â€
“Where did they come from there are no vessels in the system, no inhabited systems on record.â€
“Exactly.†Kamesota said quietly.
“From your time in the Explorer Corps did you know of any deep space colonies or anything strange happening in the deep?â€
“Columbus is the obvious one, but we are several light years from that system.†Kelly smiled Kamesota knew where Columbus was but has refused to tell the Nova Cats the exact location just confirm they were right about the general area.
“Anything else?â€
“Antallos, is a pirate colony nearer the Outworlds Alliance and another world named Razek’s Hole another pirate world. Both I have locations of this is neither.â€
“Anything else?†Kelly asked she was not surprised the samurai still in Kamesota was willing give up pirate locations.
“There is…†she muttered quietly then shook her head “nothing concrete.â€
“On what?â€
“A House Davion run facility on a planet named Farstar presumable because of its distance to the Federated Suns. Although set-up to appear like a civilian the base is used by the Federated Suns to infiltrate the Draconis Combine and Outworlds Alliance and was a launch off point for the search for the Clan Homeworlds before Operation Bulldog and Serpent.â€
“How long until the JumpShips have recharged their K-F Drives?â€
“I do not know the Star Commodore did not elaborate other than to come and tell you what he had found.â€
“Fine tell him we are going to investigate the little ship. Tell him to tell the JumpShips to continue to recharge their drives and that we will be back in a couple of days. We will burn in-system for one day check things out then if there is nothing we will come back.†Kelly said getting back to her exercises tightening the hair bobble she wore another trophy from the encounter with the DCMS Explorer Corps vessel. Unlike other warriors who took vineers that would allow them to see a vision Kelly took things she could use. The bobble kept her long golden hair under control while she exercises and when she was in her Mech.
“Yes, Galaxy Commander, sorry for the interruption.†She said giving Kelly a short bow before rushing off, Kelly had stopped asking her to stop bowing before she left and using Japanese because it seemed that they were ingrained in Kamesota‘s very being and to change it would change her. Kelly had taken her as a Bondswoman to the Nova Cat Clan because she fought so passionately for her crews safety before surrendering to the Nova Cats even though her JumpShip was no match for the Nova Cat WarShips and DropShips. Kamesota had a chance of being a decent Nova Cat Naval Warrior she just needed time.
As it turned out she would have a couple of days more time, the JumpShips still had over a week to recharge their depleted Jump-Drives. It was strange that JumpShips and WarShips could jump system-to-system in a blink of an eye but before that they had to wait for days recharging their engines with the solar power of the star they orbited.
The Righteous Return would, with its two DropShips holding a Cluster of Sigma Galaxies elite warriors including Kelly’s own command Keshik, burn in-system and scan for the unidentified craft and any colonies. If they discovered anything Kelly would lead an investigation of the planet.
After two days of burning into the system they were ready to give up when Kamesota, observing the crew on Kelly’s order, noticed something a low frequency radio signal. Closing on the fifth planet the Righteous Return found that the Farstar Colony was in the centre of a massive meteor stike crater on the fifth planet. Landing with Sigma Galaxies Command Keshik the colony surrendered to Kelly Hardo exactly six minutes after landfall, as the first Nova Cat BattleMech entered the colony. After a quick batch of interrogations Kamesota’s belief that it was a Davion spy colony was confirmed and Kelly Hardo decided that the best way to contain the threat posed by the Nova Cats striking a potential allies colony was to transport the whole population off planet then level the colony. Fourteen hours later the three hundred colonists/Davion Intelligence Staff were transported aboard the Righteous Return making for a cramped journey back to the JumpShips. The Righteous Return then levelled the colony sight with Naval Autocannon and Capital Missile fire before leaving the colony. The data gained on Farstar was worth about eight years of spying the Nova Cats could have done and they gained accurate information on both Razek’s Hole and Antallos setting up Sigma Galaxies next operation.
Razek’s Hole/Antallos
Vance Razek’s Estates
Periphery
28th/31st March 3063
Working on intelligence data gained on Farstar Colony and from interrogations of captured Davion personnel Clan Nova Cat’s Sigma Galaxy strike Razek’s Hole and then three days later Antallos’ city state Port Krin. On Razek’s Hole the Nova Cats encounter significant resistance. On their first landing they encounter a company of BattleMechs all of Draconis Combine manufacture and all using advanced weaponry. Supporting these Mechs are two Battalions of armoured vehicles. These forces put up a brave fight but a quickly dispatched costing the Nova Cats two trinaries from the 179th Striker Cluster and one star from the Lachesis Keshik. Galaxy Commander Kelly Hard orders her troops to salvage as much as possible and search the compounds for intelligence data. During the search the Nova Cats are attacked by a group of white Mechs and Battle Armour, at least Battalion strength, supported by white aerospace fighters, at wing strength. This shatters the 179th Striker and the Lachesis Keshik killing Galaxy Commander Kelly Hardo in the process. The rest of Sigma Galaxy descend on the enemy force looking for blood, after six hours of bloody fighting the Nova Cats take no prisoners but do net themselves nearly a battalion of Inner Sphere Mechs and some of the latest Inner Sphere Battle Armour designs. From the salvage and the bodies of their attackers the Nova Cats are able to positively them as Word of Blake forces.
Three days later the Nova Cats attack Antallos striking the city state of Antallos there they destroy Vinston’s Vigilantes defending the city and destroy the rest of Vance Razek’s forces, including Vance Razek himself, along with roughly a battalion of other pirate forces spread throughout the city costing Sigma Galaxy the 189th Battle Cluster in the process. They leave Antallos after eighteen hours leaving Port Krin a free city for the first time in decades. Sigma Galaxy then intent on avoiding all contact with further Periphery troops heads into the Deep Periphery before returning to the Nova Cat’s Den three months later. Because of losses there is talk of disbanding the Galaxy however Khan Santin West chooses to merge Omega Provisional Galaxy with Sigma Galaxy bringing the unit back up to full strength.
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Damn Blakies are everywhere. Those surats have to be destroyed. Seyla
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Damn Blakies are everywhere. Those surats have to be destroyed. Seyla
Wait for April Fools...
Draconis Combine/Federated Suns Border
Proserpina and Surrounding Worlds
Draconis March, Federated Suns
14th-21st April 3063
With the Ghost Bear Dominion still attacking their borders three regiments worth of rogue Draconis Combine troops operating in Battalions attack the seven worlds seized by the Federated Suns the year before. Although they do light damage and have no chance of recapturing the worlds it appears these attacks were a smoke screen for the Combine’s real move against the Federated Suns.
On the 18th the Federated Suns Fox-class Corvette FSS Invincible is attacked and destroyed by the Tatsumaki-class Destroyer DCS Lair of Mighty Wyrms in the Marduk system allowing the Draconis Combine raiding party to capture over a Battalions worth of equipment from the planetside factories. On the 21st the Fox-class Corvette FSS Brest is attacked and destroyed by a Tatsumaki-class Destroyer in the Proserpina system again a large quantity of equipment was captured although the Davion Heavy Guards was able to bring down one of the raiding Rose-class DropShips, which exploded on impact. The Tatsumaki was later confirmed as the Lair of Mighty Wyrms.
Although they Federated Suns was able to hold onto the worlds it had captured the less than stellar performance of the Fox-class Corvette in this conflict, in Operations Bull Dog and Serpent and in the recent Death Commando attack on New Avalon worried the AFFS High Command and Admiralty. On the order of Fleet Admiral Andrea Petain all work on the all four Fox-class Corvettes under construction was halted with crews transferred to other Projects until designers could look at the Fox design and make it a more effective fighter a process that would take well over a year.
Davion Royal Palace, First Prince’s Office
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
13th May 3063
It seemed that every time Victor attempted to get some work done in his office he got interrupted either by one of his officers or by an event to hit the Inner Sphere, then again at the moment his reading was grim the Admiralty had suffered a humbling defeat in the worlds taken from the Draconis Combine and the St Ives Conflict seemed to have no end. This time his interruption came from Star Colonel Canin Rosse, although the Watch Cluster were due to leave New Avalon the Star Colonel had requested an audience before leaving. Walking into the office Canin was supremely confident, analysing the reports his troops had come up with a near full proof plan to help the Federated Suns end some trouble along their borders. Now all he had to do was convince the First Prince to go for the plan.
“Star Colonel this is quite a surprise, I thought you would have been getting tired of New Avalon, ready to take on the Federated Suns best.â€
“We are. However I came here to make a request.â€
“A request?â€
“Aff, when the deal was initially made the Nova Cats were given rights to be involved in Federated Suns operations against its neighbours if the situation fit.†Canin said Victor had been dreading this trust the Clanners to want real combat.
“The situation has not fit, Star Colonel, your presence here is Top Secret. If you had been involved in the Draconis Combine Strike something would have been noticed.â€
“Aff, I was not thinking about that mission.†Canin said he noticed Victor was confused “your troops are involved in St Ives defence. We have the firepower to end that fight.â€
“End that fight? How so? We have been fighting a holding action since day one. To do more would invite all out war a direct violation of the Star League Agreement.†Victor said, he had been looking for months to find a way to end the St Ives Conflict, several of his regiments were under near constant attack as was the St Ives Compact a close ally. Technically the presence of the AFFS forces in St Ives were a violation of the Star League but they’d been there since the signing of the agreement and Victor wasn’t ready to withdraw them yet.
“If you were to attack it would be a direct violation. If we were to attack then it would not.â€
“How would you attack them? Your technology and Mechs put you as a definite Clan force.â€
“Last year a Draconis Combine periphery world was attacked by an unknown foe†Victor nodded he had read the report an entire Combine unit had been wiped out. By an unknown raider force using Mechs painted in the various colours of the Inner Sphere states and major mercenary units.
“That was the Nova Cats.†Canin admitted immediately noticing Victor’s scientism “it was not the Watch Cluster, just a Nova Cat unit. We would use the same strategy and cover they did.â€
“The Capellans have a WarShip fleet that has threatened action against all forces involved in St Ives how will you prevent your unit being annihilated by a chance encounter by a Capellan WarShip?â€
“We will need to borrow one of the Nova Cat WarShips defending your shipyards. The Blade would make the perfect vessel.†Canin said naming the Aegis guarding Kathil shipyards.
“Can you guarantee the success of this mission?â€
“Nothing is guaranteed in life First Prince, sometimes you just have to roll a hard six and lash out†Canin said using one of the phrases he had learned while in the Federated Suns, he had no idea what it meant but it sounded good.
“How long will you need to prepare?†Victor asked, he wasn’t about to stop the Clansmen trying to kill some Capellans.
“We are ready now. My DropShips are loaded and ready for lift off. We will begin the burn to our JumpShips if you will send us data on Kathil allowing us to jump in close to the Blade then we will hit the Capellans. The next time you hear from us will be when we have returned to Federated Suns territory after a successful mission.†Canin said confidently.
“Good luck Star Colonel.â€
“We make our own luck First Prince†Canin said leaving the office Victor shook his head maybe after the Capellans gave the Nova Cats a bloody nose the Clansmen would listen to him, they could not fight everyone.
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Hustaing
Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
26th May 3063
After rendezvousing with the Blade the Nova Cats had chosen their target, the world that had started the St Ives Conflict, Hustaing just over the St Ives/Capellan border. After repainting all their equipment including JumpShips and the Blake’s identification markings the Nova Cats entered the system.
Burning in fast and hard the ten DropShips and the WarShip had encountered no naval presence in the system but on planet they detected there was a major unit on planet the Capellan Confederation’s Sixth Reserve Cavalry. From the records provided by the Federated Suns intelligence the Sixth was a Regimental command with a regiment of armour and a battalion of infantry giving them a huge number advantage over the Nova Cats but according to the intelligence reports the Sixth had never faced the Clans and mostly fielded technology from the Succession Wars giving the Nova Cats a serious firepower edge. As the approached Canin opened up a communication frequency to the planet in traditional Clan manner “this is Khan Kane Kotare of the Star Nova Galaxy Mercenary Regiment what forces will defend this world?†He asked Kotare was an actual Clan Bloodname, just not a Nova Cat one, if the Capellans checked or had records on such things.
“This is Sang-shao Ni Tehn Do commander of the Hustaing Reserve Cavalry, you are who?â€
“I have told you who I am, what is your bid to defend this world. Shall I need to use my WarShip or not?†He asked being as dramatic as possible, he’d seen some of the Khans do similar things and hoped he was being effective enough.
“WarShip…?†The man asked shocked.
“Are you completely deaf or are you just being this way because you are an idiot? Since we detect no WarShips we will leave the Bloodcovered-Talon in orbit with its four assault DropShips ready to shoot down anyone who tries to run.†He warned in fact if anyone ran the Nova Cat DropShips were under orders to get a close as possible and fire wildly at the DropShips but cause as little damage as possible allowing them to spread the word of trouble. “I will take my ten DropShips to the location we are transmitting now and you will meet us there or we will run rampant in your cities.†Canin said cutting the comm. off turning back to the Nova Cats “how was that?â€
“For being completely crazy and over the top you would do the Smoke Jaguars proud.†The ships commander said Canin nodded not sure whether that was a complement he was pleased to have.
“Maintain a high-orbit over their capital, we won’t be long, but keep an eye out for Capellan WarShips.â€
An hour later the Nova Cat ground forces had landed and the nine Broadswords and single Carrier were circling high in the atmosphere with the Nova Cat’s ten OmniFighters. So far the Capellans had not sent up a single aerospace fighter to try and stop them and Canin wondered if the Capellans would put up any defence looking out he began to see Capellan Mechs and vehicles, roughly a regiment of troops move onto the plains. “Hawk-Eye One do you have a fix on their command?†Canin asked the aerospace commander.
“Aff, we have three bases around the city, ready for the command.â€
“Are they away from civilian areas?â€
“Aff†the pilot said continuing to circle.
“Good stand-by†Canin said switching to general broadcast “Ni Tehn Do this is Khan Kotare, I am glad you decided to come and face us. Now order your bases evacuated before I bomb them with fuel-air bombs.†He said “Hawk-Eye flight clear to proceed, bomb in four minutes.†He said in the air two Sabutai OmniFighters broke formation and headed for the bases, under their wings they carried four low yield fuel-air bombs each. It was not Clan practice to bomb an enemies base but they needed to prove they were not Clan just mercenaries with lots of Clan technology.
“You can’t†Ni Tehn Do said his voice but a whisper.
“I can and will†Canin said looking at the range-finder to the Capellan battle-line normally an Inner Sphere force would be firing by now but these Capellans had not fired a shot meaning they were scared or did not have the technology to answer to the Nova Cats. “All Star Nova Galaxy forces fire at will†Canin said as the entire Nova Cat Battle line erupted Canin saw four Capellan Mechs fall before he fired a single shot. High in the sky the remaining eight fighters and DropShips began diving preparing for their attacks.
“All forces attack! Kill these Clan Bastards†Ni Tehn Do said his own Mech Canin’s targeting computers identified as a seventy ton Grasshopper. Canin took his time lining up the shot, the Grasshopper engaged its jump jets Ni Tehn Do trying to make his Mech a difficult but as it raised all it did was make itself a target, one of the diving Nova Cat OmniFighters put a Extended-Range PPC blast and a Gauss slug unto the flying Mech. The man-made lighting and the supersonic slug knocked the Mech off balance and as it landed the seventy ton Mech landed on one foot, all the weight on one leg broke the limb in half sending Ni Tehn Do to the ground. Moments later an Arrow IV Artillery Missile slammed into the downed Mech obliterating it and the pilots inside. Just at that moment the two Nova Cat OmniFighters began their bombings taking out all three bases in quick succession they then did a low pass over the Capellan Battle-line dropping their last two fuel-air explosives on the Reserve Cavalry’s ground troops. The bombs were devastating against ground troops wiping out the infantry and almost the a whole battalion of vehicles. When the smoke cleared Canin could see three standing Mechs remaining out of a regiments worth of troops, none were firing, looking at the chronometer he noticed that exactly eight minutes had gone by. His ammo bins were full his lasers still cool.
“Khan Kotare this is Soa-wei Carol Wade, I am the most senior officer remaining and I am willing to offer our immediate surrender†one of the Capellans said over the comm. as two of the three Mechs fell under Nova Cat fire “I said we SURRENDER!†She screamed “please hold your fire!â€
“All Star Nova Galaxy units hold your fire.†Canin said.
“Thank you Khan Kotare.†Carol said “what are your terms?â€
“No terms Soa-wei just a message we would like you to give your Chancellor. The St Ives Conflict ends or the next time we do real damage to a world, and a unit, he actually cares about. Take care of your people. Star Nova Galaxy Move out.†Canin said the DropShips were already landing in the nearby fields.
“You wiped us out to give us a message?†Carol Wade asked shocked “you have killed over eight hundred people and all you want to do is give us a message.â€
“We do what our employers tell us.â€
“And who are your employers?†Wade asked she was getting confident now seeing the Nova Cats leave Canin stood his Smoke Jaguar-Gray coloured Dragon Cat on the hill and looked at the only remaining Mech a forty ton Snake very similar to the one he had killed on New Avalon.
“The St Ives Compact, they are tired of your Chancellor’s war and you gave us no sport. Next time we will not be so lenient.†Canin said firing both his twelve-tube ATM launchers twelve missile landed either side of the Snake “this is the big leagues and your tiny nation is nothing to us.†Canin said as the first Nova Cat DropShips began to take off, they had been on planet for a total of thirty minutes. Canin turned around and walked back to his DropShip taking off.
Two days later the Blade was out of the system, the Nova Cats made a point in jumping into a couple of St Ives systems on the way back to the Federated Suns ensuring the Capellans noticed realising they would be watching. By the end of the week five days after the Nova Cat attack the Capellan Chancellor had recalled all his troops from the St Ives Compact and signed the peace agreement, the Watch Cluster had just ended the war with a single threat. Davion Intelligence places the entire Capellan WarShip fleet in orbits around Sian, Liao and the manufacturing world of Victoria for nearly a whole month. The Sixth Capellan Reserve Cavalry are stricken from the Capellan rolls for their dishonourable defeat that had cost the Capellans their war.
Clan Wolf Command
Tamar, Occupation Zone Capital
6th June 3063
Deep in Clan Wolf’s Occupation Zone Khan Vladimir Ward welcomes Khan Malaveri Fletcher leader of Clan Hell’s Horses to the Inner Sphere. Khan Ward manipulates the Hell’s Horses hatred for the Ghost Bears to convince the Clan’s Khan to attack the Ghost Bear Dominion telling the Hell‘s Horses Khan that the Ghost Bears are over confident in their hold over their territory and that the Draconis Combine attacks are causing heavier damage than is actually being reported.
Khan Ward has already allowed the Hell’s Horses to gain three Wolf worlds along the Ghost Bear border and wants to increase the size of the border protecting his Wolves as he attacks the Jade Falcons and plans to invade the Inner Sphere.
Across the Inner Sphere there is a spate of terrorist attacks all claimed by the Sixth of June organisation. Although none of these attacks cause major casualties or damage they do heighten tensions in the Inner Sphere and cause trouble where there was none.
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Parade Grounds
Wernke/Talon System
Capellan March, Federated Suns
22nd June 3063
Following a year in the Lyran Alliance under Star League contract the Blue Star Irregulars returned to the Federated Suns in style landing on Wernke in the Capellan March all three Regiments were welcomed by the First Prince, Marshal of Armies Jackson Davion and Capellan March commander Field Marshal George Hasek. Within the Federated Suns High Command there was high hope that the Blue Star Irregulars would accept Victor’s offer of becoming house units following the loss of their WarShip during the one year they served as SLDF troops on the Jade Falcon Border.
The Blue Star Irregulars landed a single Union-class DropShip and three massive Overlord-C class DropShips all captured from Clan Jade Falcon, one even had the Jade Falcon emblem a Jade Falcon clutching a sword against a green rectangle, still on the hull. The Blue Star Irregular commander Colonel Wu Sen Tang exited the Union piloting a captured Jade Falcon Turkina assault OmniMech. The Mech reminded Victor of a big Mad Cat with big weapon arms and over shoulder missile launchers, just like the heavy OmniMech except the Turkina came in at a whopping ninety-five tons and could match Victor’s Daishi for firepower. The Turkina stalked up to their observation dome and the Colonel lowered himself from the assault Mech dressed in a Star League Uniform, the Blue Star Irregulars had made their choice, this was just a courtesy call on their part. Victor had wondered why all three Regiments had not travelled from the JumpShips this was why. The Blue Star Colonel presented himself to Victor and saluted, Victor noticed he had Lieutenant-General rank tabs on his uniform “General? Welcome to Wernke.â€
“Thank you First Prince Davion, I am sorry I did not tell you this before landing but the Blue Star Irregulars have chosen to travel to Kittery and join the SLDF. The Commanding-General confirmed my promotion on the way here and authorised our detour and gift.â€
“Gift?†Jackson asked surprised.
“Aye, Marshal, the Blue Star Irregulars have decided to honour the Federated Suns for the years they have trusted us to get the job done despite our Mercenary Status.†He said raising a small communicator to his lips “command one, begin†he said quietly the doors on the three DropShips opened and Mechs began rolling our. From the first DropShip there were about thirty Clan Battle and OmniMechs and a couple of dozen Elemental Battle Armour suits followed by three flatbed trucks full of parts. Then out of the other vessels walked Hauptmann OmniMechs, followed by an Artic Fox and finally a Stiletto OmniMech all Lyran designs, all designs the Federated Suns had been barred from buying by Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion because of her hostile relationship with Victor. The Hauptmann was one of the most impressive Inner Sphere OmniMechs while the Stiletto was brand-new, the first only walking off Coventry Metal Works Assembly Lines at the start of 3063, and the Artic Fox was limited to the Kell Hounds Mercenaries and Clan Wolf (in-Exile).
“What is this?†Victor managed.
“One moment sire†Tang said raising the communicator one more time “surprise package†he said at that moment two Fafnir Assault Mechs walked clear of one DropShip and two captured Clan Scytha OmniFighters were towed out by trucks. The Fafnirs were factory new with just a grey base coat and were examples of one of the Lyrans most deadly BattleMech designs carrying two Heavy Gauss Rifles in their torsos they were slow but could floor any Mech with one hit from the rifles. While the Scytha was one of the heaviest and deadly Clan OmniFighters in existence this was more than an impressive gift it was beyond that.
“A gift from us and your friends in the Lyran realm.†Tang said continuing when no-one said anything, “The Stilettos come courtesy of Duke Bradford of Coventry, he didn’t want them falling into the hands of Katherine so he bought the first run himself and sent them to Morgan’s ARDC with a note saying you needed to get a companies worth. While the Artic Foxes are from Phelan Kell, the Wolf Khan just wanted to make sure you realised his Clan were contributing and to make sure you remembered that next time the Jade Falcons came knocking.†Victor smiled trust the Kells “while the DropShips and the Fighters come courtesy of the Jade Falcons they just like giving us stuff.â€
“The DropShips too?†George Hasek said astonished.
“All except the Union, that’s mine†Tang said, the Blue Star Irregulars really were becoming SLDF troops if they were giving away so much so easily, any Merc unit in the Inner Sphere would kill to have that tech.
“Well on behalf of the Federated Suns I accept, but you must accept something from me also.†Victor said turning to Jackson “Jackson release the first three Conquistadors to the SLDF to the Blue Star Irregulars specifically. George give them a company of Templars.†Victor said the next generation of command DropShip and the first Federated Suns OmniMech were worthy gifts but Victor felt small giving so little.
“Thank you sire†the Blue Star Commander said saluting Victor.
“No, thank you General†Victor said offering the man his hand as they shook “and good luck.†Victor said and he actually meant it. Although having the Irregulars added to the AFFS would have been a bonus they had just done the Federated Suns a great service.
FSS Hanse Davion (First Prince-class Battleship)
Federated-Boeing Shipyards, Galax
Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th July 3063
Standing inside the command bridge of the newly commissioned FSS Hanse Davion high above the hull of the First Prince-Battleship in a specially armoured and defended Command Bridge Victor Steiner-Davion stood beside Jackson Davion, Fleet Admiral Andrea Petain and Danai Centrella in front of the entire Federated Suns press. The announcement that this vessel had been constructed has set the media crazy with questions such as where the vessel had come from and how long the Federated Suns had been developing and building it and how the money spent on the project had been hidden. To their credit Jackson Davion and Andrea Petain had deflected most of the questions however when Victor had announced that he would personally launch the vessel in the Galax system there had been calls for it to be as public as possible. Now standing in front of the media Victor wished he had not invited them aboard, Danai Centrella stepped up beside him and offered him her hand which he took gratefully she then leaned in and kissed him on the cheek sending the media tri-vid cameras wild, the first public kiss of the engaged couple. Some of the media began asking questions immediately about their planned wedding, but Victor began to speak about the launch instead.
“If I could have your attention.†He said the room went silent almost immediately, there were some perks to being the First Prince in a crowded room, despite their personal feelings towards Victor good or bad he was their First Prince, their leader, and in the Federated Suns that alone demanded respect. “Thank you. This vessel was constructed in secret at the same location the Davion-class Destroyers were completed the basis of this design and who designed it are a closely guarded secret. This vessel is designed to show the people of the Federated Suns that we are taking great steps forward in naval technology and as a warning to our enemies that if you attack us you will face this vessel and the best crew the Federated Suns can field.†Victor paused “when the Federated Suns began taking the great step back into constructing WarShips the first vessel was named the Fox for my father’s famous nickname.†He said including his father as much in this as possible would garner the respect the occasion, and the vessel, merited. “When naming this vessel and its class I decided what better way of honouring the man who delivered us Victory in the Fourth Succession War and the all too brief Alliance with the Lyran realm was to name a vessel after him. So ladies and gentlemen of the press and the people of the Federated Suns allow me to reveal to you the FSS Hanse Davion, the first vessel of the First Prince-class Battleship to enter the AFFS Admiralty.†He said again the press went crazy with questions however Victor raised his hands instead of speaking he pulled back a ribbon on the back wall of the bridge to reveal the name and class name. The Media cameras went crazy, Victor gave them a few pictures then turned back to the press. “I will now take some questions†he said the media went crazy but Victor pointed out one Maria Clarkson of the Avalon Gazette, not really a naval or even a military newspaper but still a face he recognised, the Public Relations team had always said go for someone you know first so Victor had picked about four he knew relatively well and picked them at random first for every press conference, some media studies had noticed this and claimed the First Prince was showing favouritism to certain papers but no-one had mentioned they were unhappy with this so he continued.
“Sire, although this vessel is very impressive and we are very glad to welcome this vessel into our military. I have a personal question, if I may?†She asked Victor fought the urge to roll his eyes ‘typical press‘ he thought, Victor glanced at Danai Centrella who smiled, Victor turned back to the cameras and nodded. “We were wondering if you and Duchess Centrella had set a date and a location for your wedding?â€
“We have and it will be on New Avalon†Victor said turning to another reporter Charles Gunn of the Kathil Post a proper military paper. “Charlie†Victor said hopefully he would change the subject.
“Sire, I was wondering what your reaction was following the end of the Capellan St Ives Conflict?†Victor almost said ‘no comment’ but decided he had something he wanted to say so said it.
“I am glad that the St Ives people have been allowed their freedom from the Capellan Marauders. I am glad that the Confederation has decided to stop using Biological Weapons, a direct violation of the Ares Conventions which the Confederation originally spearheaded, and I am glad that the Capellan Chancellor saw sense in stopping his ill-planned war. We re-created the Star League to create a new age of peace, I am unhappy that one of the Succession Lords almost tore down all our hard work, some say the Federated Suns is the warmonger of the Inner Sphere. I believe people should look beyond our borders every now and then.†Victor said another military newspaper Frank Adams of the Admiralty Choice Magazine on Galaxy “Frank†Victor said looking directly at him perhaps someone would actually ask something about the FSS Hanse Davion.
“Sire, I was wondering what your reaction was to reports that a mercenary regiment fielding a WarShip stopped the St Ives Conflict and that they did so by threatening Sian with attack from orbit.†Once again the press had pressed a button that Victor had no intention on touching on, instead of digging deeper into the vessel they were standing on they wanted to push for answers about things that had almost nothing to do with the Federated Suns. Considering the true origin of the Hanse Davion Victor silently thanked them, if the truth ever did come out that would be a dark day indeed.
“The only mercenaries that I know fielding a WarShip are the Wolf’s Dragoons and at present all baring one of their vessels are in the Outreach system, the other vessel is here under refit.†Victor paused “I do not know who these mercenaries were. Only that they were not under Federated Suns employ and that they are not registered with the MRBC on Outreach. If they were to enter the Federated Suns, our navy led by the FSS Hanse Davion would be ready for them.â€
“Thank you ladies and gentlemen, I think that is enough for now, let’s get this ship in space. Fleet Admiral Petain please.†Jackson said stepping forward pushing Victor out of the way slightly allowing the Admiral forward, Andrea Petain had been in charge of the Navy since the FSS Fox had been launched and was the most experienced space officer the AFFS had, now her navy had some proper teeth to meet threats to the Federated Suns.
“Helm, confirm we are clear of the docks and bring engines to one-quarter thrust.†Admiral Petain said the helm officer nodded he was ready “engage main engines†Petain said the Hanse Davion’s massive engines stroked into life and the massive battleship creped forward clear of the bay officially entering service, outside an aerospace fighter flew past at high speed dropping a bottle of champagne against the vessel as was customary, the bottle shattered on impact showering the hull with champagne, completing the ceremony. As the vessel safely cleared the dock two flights of fighters flew acrobatic displays over and below the vessel detonating fireworks. Around the Shipyards were DropShips and other stations with photographers taking pictures that would be broadcast across the Inner Sphere. Across the Inner Sphere naval experts were trying to work out where the vessel had come from and what its capabilities could be as no-one else had any vessel that even came close to matching its size or possible power.
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Abandoned Block, Downtown
Kazenjov, Kazenjov Prefecture
Draconis Combine
23rd July 3063
After months of tracking and with assistance from every intelligence agency in the Draconis Combine and Star League Intelligence Duke Minoru Kurita tracks down the assassin who killed his sister Omiko. Finally finding the man on the world of Kazenjov near the Outworlds Alliance border, the assassin trying to buy transport out of the Draconis Combine.
After several hours of torture and interrogation the unnamed assassin admits he was hired by Duchess Margaret Aten of the Lyran Alliance’s Skye Province, for a one-off job to kill Omiko in retaliation for the Draconis Combine’s seizing of Lyon’s Thumb. With the information they wanted from the beginning Minoru kills the man with his personal Katana. The very next day the abandoned tower block is levelled with high explosive charges making room for a new shopping complex, the assassins body is never found. Using the SLS Unity City once more Minoru returns to Luthien, on Minoru’s return trip word is broken to the public that Omiko Kurita is dead murdered on Luthien and the Draconis Combine enter a national state of mourning. The Internal Security Force (ISF) breaks news two days later they have captured the assassin responsible on Luthien and expose a member of the Black Dragon Society for Omiko’s death. The framed man is publicly executed on Luthien for his crime against the Draconis Combine and the ISF begin a clamp down on the Black Dragon Society.
In fact the assassin was hired by Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion and killed Omiko Kurita to hurt Victor Steiner-Davion but the Draconis Combine never find this out. When he hears of Omi’s death Victor is hurt by the news and sends his personnel condolences to the entire Kurita family but following the recent hostilities between the nations he is unable to visit Omi’s grave to pay his respects to the first love of his life.
Command Base
Third FedCom Guards RCT
Sarna, Sarna Supremacy
29th- 31st July 3063
The final Federated Commonwealth Guards RCT is destroyed on the world of Sarna by angered Capellan Confederation troops. Unable to conqueror the St Ives Compact they turn on the two worlds of the Federated Commonwealth’s Sarna March that they have never been able to conqueror. Even with the former members of the Third FedCom Guards RCT protecting them and regular drops of aid from friendly units in the Federated Suns the RCT and the two regiments of troops raised on the Supremacy’s other world Sakhalin are destroyed in three days of heavy fighting. Marshal of Sarna Supremacy Charles Finnigan dies defending his troops outside his command base on Sarna.
Two days after the conquest Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao arrives on planet and personally executes the leaders of the breakaway Supremacy, sending a clear message ‘Leave the Capellan Realm and you will die.’
Caesar’s Palace, Nova Roma
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
8th August 3063
Instead of returning to a hero’s welcome Julius O’Reily is almost assassinated by his father’s Legio (Legion) I Household Guard. Julius’ Elite Legio II veterans of the llyrian Palatinate eliminates most of Legio I easily brushing them aside using their superior skills and battle cohesion to totally outclass Legio I. Not one of the Legio I MechWarriors surrender to Julius’ forces dying to the man. Julius then kills his father Sean in the Caesar’s Palace in the capital city Nova Roma on Alphard. Julius proclaims himself Caesar of the Marian Hegemony and begins reorganising his forces.
Proving Grounds
Talon, Wernke System
Capellan March, Federated Suns
12th August 3063
During manoeuvres with the newly reformed First Kathil Uhlans Regiment Clan Nova Cat’s Watch Cluster is interrupted as an Excalibur-class DropShip lands in between the two units. General Andrew Redburn, commander of the Uhlans called an end to the exercise and the two units line up either side of the DropShip as Victor Steiner-Davion’s Dire Wolf, Danai Centrella’s Falconer, Capellan March Field Marshal George Hasek’s Templar all exit. “Atten-shun!†General Redburn said into the comm. both units snapped their Mechs, Battle Armour and vehicles as the three visitor Mechs turned to face the Nova Cat line up, battered and bruised after their trip to the Capellan realm and after several days exercise on the frozen ball that was Talon the Nova Cats looked a right state.
Victor walked his Dire Wolf forward in front of Star Colonel Rosse’s Dragon Cat “Star Colonel Canin Rosse of the Watch Cluster Clan Nova Cat.†He said on the general frequency, everyone on Talon knew who they were and what they were doing here the Nova Cats had already helped techs at Talon’s Kallon Industries solve several problems with their next OmniMech Design advancing the project several years closer to completion. “It is my honour to award you and your unit the Limp Sword Award for service against the Capellan Confederation.†Victor said as another Mech, a Capellan-built Snake walked from the DropShip, painted in a mishmash of Capellan Camouflage patterns attached to the Mech’s back was a flagpole with a drooping sword held by a smashed Mech hand set against an inverted orange triangle with a black-background.
“Uhlans honour detail!†Redburn shouted in precession three Uhlans Mechs walked forward raised their left arm and fired the weapons mounted on each Mech in three synchronised blasts.
“This is not how the Nova Cats celebrate a victory.†Canin said for a start, Victor thought the Clansmen may refuse the Award for a moment but then he spoke up again “however, we will respect your ways and this award. I thank you on behalf of the Cluster. However, you must allow us to show you how we celebrate.â€
“It would be my honour†Victor said after a moments hesitation slightly worried what the Clansmen might have in mind. “May the others join us?†Victor asked it felt strange asking for something while on one of his own worlds but this was the Nova Cat’s party and he’d respect their wishes.
“Of course, however I would ask we do this on the other planet, it is rather cold outside and we need fresh air in our lungs and time to prepare. I would suggest six days time on the other planet.†Canin said thinking quickly, six days should be plenty of time for the Watch to find a location and make preparations, assuming they were allowed to do things their own way.
“Six days time on Wernke, then we can present you and your men with the other awards as well.†Victor said, Canin shook his head the Inner Sphere was like the other Clans they did like drab awards to symbolise victories. Canin had not even considered the battle against the Capellans to be a true victory for his troops, it had barely been a fight before it was over. None of the Nova Cats had wanted to take vineers from the battle and he would have not allowed it if they had.
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Nova Cat Camp, Chronicle of Battles
40 Kilometres from anything, Wernke, Wernke system
Capellan March, Federated Suns
18th August 3063
In six days the Nova Cats had turned a square kilometre of Wernke’s Vesper continent. In those six days the Nova Cats had completely locked down the area not allowing a single Federated Suns citizen in civilian or military, noble or commoner, no-one had been allowed in. During this time the Nova Cat warriors of the Watch Cluster and the DropShip crews had constructed a mammoth bonfire with a raised platform several metres above it, on top of this platform was a huge drum.
During the preparation time Victor had been told by Canin Rosse to come in comfortable clothing, so he had ordered everyone else to do the same. No-one wore anything formal and all the Federated Suns personnel were excited about something, it varied from person-to-person but for Victor it was everything. From his initial contact with the Clans in 3051 a year after they first arrived all he had done was fight them, he’d never been allowed into there society without forcing his way in. He understood some of their military traditions and beliefs and even had a group of Smoke Jaguar Elementals who had pledged their loyalty to him, following the defeat of their Clan, forming a bodyguard point attached to him at nearly all times
But he had never seen the Clans socially, this would be very interesting even from this distance, some five hundred metres away he could smell and feel the heat from the fire. On the surrounding hills the Nova Cats had erected a wooden wall and at even intervals stood Elementals in full Battle Armour painted black with blue highlights their V-shaped visor was coloured in a deep red when he had first saw them Victor had been taken aback by the ferociousness of the paint scheme, it looked threatening and deadly.
The Federated Suns party consisting of: Victor, Danai, George Hasek, Andrew Redburn, half a dozen officers from the First Kathil Uhlans and Tigret, Victor’s former Smoke Jaguar elemental Bodyguard, all were allowed in the main entrance by two armoured Elementals. As they walked towards the fire Victor turned to Tigret. “Have you ever heard of this before?â€
“Aff, the Nova Cats call this either the Ritual of Battle or the Chronicle of Battle, I am not sure which. It is a regular occurrence and unique to their Clan.†She said after a moments thought, her eyes alert ready for trouble she had wanted to bring her own armour or some personnel weapons but Victor had refused trusting the Nova Cats tonight was one more way of getting close to them.
“Anything else?â€
“No†Tigret said quietly not surprising since her Clan had been the Nova Cat’s greatest enemies. Just then an unamoured, barely clothed male elemental raised up onto the platform above the flames with a massive jousting stick used for elemental hand-to-hand combat training, Victor had seen elementals train with them and felt their strike they were heavy pieces of kit. The elemental began smashing the drum in a timely fashion with complete ease. Victor counted twenty beats before the elemental lowered himself from the platform. Other than the crackling of the fire there was near total silence, the Federated Suns group stood together several meters from the raging fire.
“Do you hear that?†Danai whispered to Victor, Victor listened more closely it was music something resembling Scottish bagpipes, a saxophone and a dozen other instruments all playing together all playing the same tune but it sounded so strange so foreign to hear these instruments together.
“What the hell is this? Look at them, they all look like they are in some kind of trance, I thought you said they didn‘t take controlled substances.†George said Victor and Danai looked around and saw the Field Marshal was right the entire Cluster of Nova Cats, and the DropShip crews, were all around them they had appeared from nothing. Some were dressed in uniform, others in white gowns while yet others wore a mishmash of clothes, most wore very little it was quite a sight and reminded Victor of the Festa Piepa, Festival of the People, celebrated by Roman Catholics on New Avalon every year however he decided to leave that little analogy out of this night.
Victor looked to Danai and noticed she had her eyes closed and a smile on her face “are you alright?†he whispered moving closer to her, the heat was immense he hoped it was not overpowering her.
“Fine, wonderful…†she said quietly her eyes never opening “just let yourself relax, stop thinking of things that are happening and let them happen†she said her voice becoming a whisper. He guessed she recognised this from something of her childhood in the Magistracy of Canopus where social gatherings were ’fluid’ to use a polite word. Victor closed his eyes and tried to relax, he was just beginning to relax when the beats began again, this time the beats did not come from the drum but from recordings from every single Elemental suit’s loud speakers the beats were in perfect time with each other, Victor could feel them penetrate him, move him the beats were oddly relaxing. Then as soon as they had began, they ended and a voice appeared Victor’s eyes shot open as did others of the Federated Suns party who had shut their eyes. Victor looked around for the voice and saw that the Nova Cats either still had their eyes closed or were looking up at the platform, there stood Canin Rosse dressed in his full uniform with a long leather cloak behind him and a full fur Nova Cat headpiece.
“And so we remember the Father’s children and the Founders creation†the Star Colonel shouted, his voice could be heard everywhere but Victor saw no microphones of speakers or anything. “Tonight is a time of remembrance, telling of battles and secrets. We remember the Cloud Cobra, the Coyote, the Fire Mandrill, the Ghost Bear, the Goliath Scorpion, the Hell’s Horse, the Ice Hellion, the Jade Falcon, the Mongoose, the Nova Cat, the Sea Fox, the Smoke Jaguar, the Snow Raven, the Star Adder, the Steel Viper, the Widowmaker, the Wolf and even the Not-Named, the Wolverine. We honour them all.†As Canin spoke each name there was a drum beat, each signifying one of the twenty Clans originally formed by Nicholas Kerensky all those many centuries before. “We remember! Seyla!†Canin shouted, in unison the Nova Cats all replied in one voice “Seyla!†Victor looked around for Tigret looking for clarification of what he was witnessing however she was gone, looking around Victor noticed her with the Nova Cat warriors even though they were of different Clan, enemy Clans, Tigret seemed to fit-in and be accepted by the other clansmen immediately.
“From Kerensky’s Stars came the eight hundred, Beneath a banner of Truth and Righteous Light To Lift up those who had suffered and to smite down with fearful vengeance those who had ruled in the name of Vanity and Greed. The thunder of their BattleMechs’ feet, the lightning from their weapons and the blood spilled in their name. Created the Clan Spirit, the forge on which we have fashioned ourselves to be the weapon. Of the resurrected Star League, honed to a razor’s edge by the Trials, By the Remembrance and by the word of the Great Kerenskys, our sires, our saviours.†Canin said quoting a passage from the remembrance he had committed to memory when he was a small child. All at once together the Nova Cats chanted “Seyla!â€
“The Great Father planned for his Army, his people, to live on the Pentagon Worlds in peace away from the corrupt Inner Sphere a Star League in Exile.†Canin said Victor realised that Canin was talking about something that had happened centuries ago before the Clan had even formed just as the First Star League’s Army had reached the worlds that would become Clan Space. He had read about the events that followed the Exodus Armies flight from the Inner Sphere but never directly from a Clansmen, even Tigret had never spoken of those events. “Unfortunately the people of the Exodus would not let go of the Inner Sphere and fragmented. The Founder led the warriors that would become the Clans to the new Homeworld and formed the twenty Clans†Canin said pausing again the twenty beats were played to the same timing and rhythm, every time they played Victor felt new, reborn, refreshed it was a strange feeling. “The twenty Clans returned to the worlds we would know as the Pentagon Worlds twenty years later. The Nova Cat, Mongoose, Snow Raven and the Not-Named were tasked together to wipe Circe clear of all that opposed our order. On the planet we found a devastated world bombed and destroyed by every weapon mankind had ever devised to harm another. We found hundreds of men and women claiming to be warriors of the nations of the Inner Sphere and even more others claiming to be from nations they had created for themselves in this ravaged war-torn world. We found our way on the world led by our Founder and found great success. All were enemies of the Clans, all were destroyed with no quarter offered or given.†Canin said as Victor listened he realised, he was hearing of how the Clans killed hundreds of enemy troops without taking a single prisoner of war it was shocking but something he could believe considering what the Clans were and what they had been originally formed to do - conqueror the Inner Sphere. Again the Nova Cats chanted as one “Seyla!†Victor looked into the bonfire still raging below Canin and thought he could see Mechs, ancient Mechs battle scarred and beaten being torn apart by Mechs that looked brand-new undamaged and deadly. It reminded him of when the Clans had first returned to the Inner Sphere. The armies of the Inner Sphere battle ravaged and beaten by centuries of Succession Wars once more torn apart by the armies of the Clans.
“Over time the Clans took their own path. Some chose the Crusader path deciding that the Founder created the Clans to teardown the nations of the Inner Sphere and reform the Inner Sphere in our own image. Others Chose the Warden path choosing to seek peaceful paths back to the Inner Sphere, to make alliances and guide the Inner Sphere nations to a better standard of life.†As Victor listened to the Nova Cat Star Colonel he wondered what path the Nova Cats were on, it looked like they were a Warden Clan but several of the Nova Cats harboured crusader viewpoints and a deep hatred for the Inner Sphere, all it would take was for one to topple the current leadership and the Nova Cats would be poised at striking the Federated Suns weakly defended periphery belly. In the Tortuga Dominions the Nova Cats were in a perfect position to play both games. As if Canin was thinking the same thing “The Nova Cat was destined for greatness, the Touman was ready to participate in Operation Revival but the Khans foresaw our destruction with the other Clans and a white light, we now know to be ComStar, so the Nova Cat refused Revival and instead have walked a different path transporting nearly everything they had from Clan Space into the depths of the Periphery where they have begun clearing up the trash of the Periphery and making contact with the Inner Sphere. Only time will tell how far the Nova Cats and the Inner Sphere will walk together. The Other Clans so strongly believed in Revival that they continued on despite the Nova Cat warning only to be stopped by the white Mechs of ComStar. The Inner Sphere States reformed the Haloed Star League and used it to strike back at the Clans showing the Crusaders the folly of their course killing the Smoke Jaguar Clan. Now the war has ended but soon it will begin again, how it will end no-one will know but only that our way must survive.†Canin said there were several moments of silence then as one everyone present, Nova Cat and Federated Suns Officer alike chanted “Seyla!†By the time Victor looked back up at the podium Canin was gone from the platform. All around the Nova Cats began dancing wildly with little coordination as the music that had been in the background came to the fore and the Warriors followed the music. Tigret was lost in the sea of Nova Cats, she would find her way back but for now she was with her own people fellow Clansmen and in her element. Several members of the AFFS party were moving on the spot slowly, Victor realised he too was swaying back and fourth. Canin appeared beside Victor from nowhere “First Prince†he said bowing slightly, it was a polite acknowledgement nothing more.
“This is quite something†Victor said watching as the officers of the Uhlans and Danai were swept up by the Nova Cat dance “it’s almost hypnotic.â€
“Aff†Canin said quietly he was not looking at Victor instead deep into the flame “some Nova Cats use the fire to concentrate on their quest of a vision, it is not unheard of warriors to ascend the podium and cast their vineers into the fire I doubt that will happen this far from home but it may, the flames have a strange power.â€
“Vineers?†Andrew Redburn asked quietly watching the dance, he to was swaying slightly, beside him stood Field Marshal George Hasek who did not look impressed with the proceedings although Canin could see his right foot tapping on the ground as he followed the music, his mind may not approve but his body did.
“Our vineers are our Souvenirs of Battle, unlike the other Clans and the Inner Sphere nations we do not take decorations for our achievements, our rank, names and vineers are enough. Following a battle or a significant event in a Nova Cat warriors life they take something from the scene, something that will invoke an emotion during their Rite of Vision.â€
“You have done this?†Victor asked curious by the whole idea as he watched Danai dance, she was enchanting, her pure while dress spinning as her body twisted and turned she was as happy with these Clansmen as he had ever seen her adapting so easily with so much fluidal it made Victor slightly envious.
“Once before, just before Yvonne arrived in the Nova Cat’s Den†Canin said naming Victor’s sister. Recently Victor had noticed Canin and Yvonne almost constantly referred to each other in first name terms neither had said anything about it but Victor had noticed.
“May I?†Victor asked indicating to the platform, he wanted to climb it and get a private moment with the Nova Cat Star Colonel.
“Aff, it will support two people comfortably, the fire should have dimmed by now.†Canin said glancing at the fire, from what Victor could see the fire had not changed from when he had first seen it.
“Sire, I do not think that is wise…†George said quietly.
“Nonsense, Star Colonel Rosse and I will be fine.†Victor said walking off with Canin, within a few minutes they were at the very top of the podium above the dimming fire, they could see for miles all around “amazing†Victor said looking out they were higher than the tallest BattleMech and their view was totally unobstructed. Looking down he saw how smartly the Nova Cats had built this site the walled perimeter was a prefect circle around the fire which was placed in the lowest part of the base ensuring that the fire could not escape the area the Nova Cats had set up. “You do this often?â€
“The Chronicle of Battles takes place every month, a different story is told each time and warriors are free to tell their own stories as they dance. I have told the story I told tonight before but thought it would be appropriate again due to your involvement.†Canin said, he had sat down on the wooden podium and crossed his legs, his eyes half closed “shall we talk now First Prince Davion? Quiaff?†Cain asked quietly and slightly more formally.
“What is going on between you and my sister, Yvonne?†Victor asked as he turned back to Canin deciding a direct and simple approach was easiest, he knew the Clansmen would appreciate that.
“I do not know†Canin said honestly.
“You don’t know?†Victor said walking back and fore on the platform, it was sturdily built but creaked and moved every time he took a step. “When I read the reports about your first visit I thought you were playing a game with Yvonne taking her on a little joyride, but then I discover that you continued in the same manner when she traveled to the Nova Cat’s Den, letting her pilot a Mech when she has no previous experience, and you gave her one of your uniform jackets.†Victor said sitting down “then I hear you believe you had a vision about her before she arrived on Tortuga†he saw Canin about to protest that he had a vision not specifically about Yvonne just a vision and he raised his hand. “It was about Yvonne†he said looking at Canin who nodded “now since a vision put your Clan on Tortuga in the first place I would like to know where this is going.â€
“I gave her the jacket on Tortuga†Canin admitted plainly “I have feelings for Yvonne, strange, confusing and wonderful emotions that I have felt for no other in my life. And I had a vision about her.†He said confirming the vision Victor believed he had experienced.
“What was the vision?†Victor asked, he barely believed in the Nova Cat visions but after what he thought he saw in the fire earlier and the obvious complete belief in visions amongst the Nova Cats he thought he would indulge Canin.
“In the vision I met a woman from a nation of metal warriors, but she was not a warrior herself.†Canin said trying to explain it to someone other than the Oathmaster was strange, to Victor the description matched a thousand women on a thousand worlds throughout the Inner Sphere, very thin ice to proclaim it was his little sister. “During our time together we became close and she proved that she was a warrior, just a reluctant one.â€
“Is that it? You saw that my sister had raw MechWarrior talent and thought that meant something more?â€
“Neg, after this was revealed the female warrior and the nova cat in my vision merged into one and two Nova Cats came from the merging, both with swords instead of claws. Tell me First Prince Davion who is the nation of the sword?†Canin asked opening his eyes looking at Victor who took a step back in surprise, the Federated Suns had always been the nation most closely associated with the sword, the King Arthur Camelot legend and the ancient belief that MechWarriors were modern day knights, although the Word of Blake and the Free Worlds League had both tried to cash in on the beliefs the Federated Suns still held the strongest, longest claim to the heritage. In the AFFS there was a medal, the Medal Excalibur, which was the highest medal anyone could gain and had only been awarded thirty-four times in history it was directly associated with the sword and there was the title Knight of the Realm again associated with swords and knights of ancient Terra.
“So what will you do?†Victor asked, it was obvious to Victor that Canin felt something for his sister and from what he had seen the Clan commander was an honourable man worthy of his sister.
“Nothing, I am a Clan Trueborn Warrior she is a Federated Suns Duchess, we are from two alien cultures both human but far different. There would be no future for either of us in pursuing it.â€
“Never believe that, Canin†Victor said using the Star Colonel’s first name for the first time, he was now considering this Clanner to be a real human being not just an enemy to be destroyed “if you feel strongly about Yvonne and she feels the same way don’t allow politics to get in the way. I did and now I have lost her forever.â€
“Duchess Centrella is happy with you.†Canin pointed out.
“And I am happy with her, but before Danai there was another woman whom I was very close with. She was recently killed by an assassin. I would never consider Danai to be a replacement or a substitute they are totally different women and I love them for different reasons but I will never know if the other relationship would have worked because of politics. Don’t allow yourself to fall into the same pit.†Victor then lowered himself from the platform without another word and sought out Danai, Victor and Canin did not speak for the rest of the night until right before the Federated Suns party left when Victor presented Canin with a St Ives Diamond medal and George Hasek presented him with a Syrtis Medal of Honour. Canin accepted both as medals for the unit instead of for himself, if he had taken them he would have only destroyed them in a Rite of Vision, at least now they would last as long as the cluster lasted.
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Precentor-Martial Cameron St Jamis’ Office
Sandhurst Military Academy, Terra
Chaos March
22nd August 3063
The Word of Blake hear of attacks by foreign troops on their staging bases in the Draconis Combine and Federated Suns periphery. Following news on the attack on Astrokaszy Cameron St Jamis orders the Word of Blake militia troops based in the periphery to give no enemy unit a wide-berth to instead destroy on sight.
Within twenty-four hours of this order two WarShips one ComStar vessel, the Brandenburg Crusader an Essex-class Destroyer, and a Draconis Combine WarShip, the DCS Dream of Kessel, a Kyushu-class Frigate are destroyed in the Draconis Combine Periphery or just beyond Draconis Combine space. Salvage found near the destroyed Dream of Kessel suggests the vessel that destroyed the Draconis Combine vessel was the Hidden Meaning a known Word of Blake Essex-class Destroyer. This is confirmed when the Hidden Meaning is found two jumps away destroyed by a miss-jump.
Following the recovery of a Draconis Combine black-box recorder from one of the downed fighters belonging to the Dream of Kessel and a fragment of an HPG message from the Brandenburg Crusader both Draconis Combine and ComStar declare the Word of Blake a rouge organisation however with Clan Ghost Bear causing trouble and ComStar’s forces wrongly placed throughout the Inner Sphere the choice is made not to make a move against the Word of Blake on Terra.
Instead ComStar begins re-arming three ancient Intrepid-class Troopships hidden at a secret base for centuries, this is seen as the first step toward curbing Word of Blake activities and a step towards the invasion of Terra. The Word of Blake know nothing of Intrepid-class vessels and publicly challenges ComStar to face them in combat if they believe the Word of Blake is in the wrong, because ComStar refuse to take the bait the Word of Blake believe they have won Public Relations victory although they get little support from any Successor state other than the Free Worlds League.
Clan Blood Spirit Holdings
York, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
28th August 3063
In the early hours of the 28th August Clan Star Adder and Clan Stone Rhino launch full scale attacks on the world of York, Homeworld to Clan Blood Spirit and that Clan’s only holding. For a start it appears that the two Clans have arrived at the same time and the Blood Spirits have only the Star Adders their biggest enemy to fear. However mistake is soon realised when the Stone Rhinos join the Star Adders in attacking the Blood Spirit WarShip fleet near York.
Although it costs the Star Adders the Pegasus, a Vincent Mk-42-class Corvette, and the Stone Rhinos the Red Rhino, a Essex-Mk I-class Destroyer, the four vessels of the Blood Spirit fleet are swiftly destroyed or disabled. The Stone Rhinos with less resources available to them spend time salvaging the Ensanguine, a heavily battered Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser and the Stooping Kite, a similarly battered York-class Destroyer/Carrier significant boosts to their tiny WarShip fleet. As a result the Star Adders lead the first assaults on the world of York at the cost of almost their entire Gamma Galaxy, later folded into other unit’s, the Star Adders land a force on York and secure an area of the planets surface to begin operations.
Unable to resist the two Clans landing more troops on York Khan Karianna Schmitt contacts the Star Adders and Stone Rhino commanders. She is surprised to find that both Star Adder Khan Stanislov N’Buta and Stone Rhino Khan Elizabeth Radick are both present with the invading forces. The message from both Khans is clear they are here to absorb or annihilate the Blood Spirit Clan, there will be no trials or bidding the entire Blood Spirit Clan is threatened. Faced with this prospect and two Clans bearing down on her Clan Karianna Schmitt attempts to contact the other Khans on Strana Mechty and find support somewhere the Invading Khans are however all in the Inner Sphere and their Clans are unwilling to interfere, the Hell’s Horses, Diamond Shark, Snow Raven and Nova Cat Khans are similarly missing for various reasons and the other Homeworlds Clans are unwilling to get involved lest they become the Star Adders next target. The Blood Spirits are alone.
In the first forty-eight hours Beta, Sigma and Tau Galaxies of Clan Blood Spirit are all destroyed by the Star Adders Alpha and Delta Galaxies at heavy losses, it appears the Blood Spirits legendary tenacity will allow them to hold on for at least a short time. The Stone Rhinos land two days later with two full Galaxies of troops, the Blood Spirits brace themselves for the end however it never comes, the Stone Rhinos instead begin securing the captured Blood Spirit Infrastructure.
Delta Galaxy Command, Port Royal
New Port Royal
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
29th August 3063
Arriving on New Port Royal Khan Santin West could see that the Nova Cats of Delta Galaxy who occupied this base had lowered their Galaxy Flag to half mast, this was an ancient tradition to honour the fallen, although the Clans did not generally honour their dead this way he did not look down on the tradition and would not order it ignored.
The Khans motorcade entered the firebase, four APCs were ample protection on this world which the Nova Cats had turned over to food production and almost nothing else. This was partially due to New Port Royal’s moisture rich atmosphere, which although perfect for food production caused a nightmare for anything technical, the Nova Cats had also chosen this world for food because of the strain having their entire population here together in the Nova Cat’s Den was causing on the Nova Cat Economy.
Stepping clear of his APC the Khan had expected saKhan Karl Devalis to meet him instead Star Colonel Cassin Drummond commander of the Forty-forth Nova Cat Guards “Where is the saKhan?â€
“Khan West we assumed you had been told.â€
“Told what?†He asked, his DropShip’s long range communications were down so since entering the New Port Royal System he had received no news.
“The saKhan was killed.â€
“Killed? How when?â€
“On Astrokaszy we were ambushed by a force of White Mechs and Battle Armour. The saKhan led his Keshik and the 119th Cluster against them and they were able to hold off the aggressor until we had cleared the NBC weaponry and moved to support. Unfortunately the saKhan was injured during the fight. He died en route Astrokaszy’s star, his body was aboard the DropShip when we dropped it into the star along with its Nuclear cargo.†West nodded, the loss of the saKhan was a hard blow to take, Karl Devalis had been his saKhan for three years and would be a hard man to follow. West moved onto his next line of trouble he had noticed on the way in.
“I only noticed one Carrack Merchant, where is the other?†Santin asked beginning to think the worse of the situation he had seen at the Jump Point.
“On our way to the Jump point a Riga-class Frigate we identified as a Star League registered vessel jumped in and destroyed the Pathfinder, the missing Carrack Merchant, they then attempted to steal the nuclear cargo aboard the DropShip however we were able to intercept them and kill them.â€
“The cargo was destroyed, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, along with the enemy Marines aboard the DropShip. The saKhan declared that ComStar and the Word of Blake are enemies of the Nova Cat before he died.†West nodded, ComStar and the Word of Blake both fielded Star League-era equipment and from what intelligence the Nova Cats had gained from Tukayyid and from other sources ComStar used a white paint scheme.
“And we will honour his order as you have honoured him†West said looking up at the flag briefly “now the Nova Cat must move forward. I want you to go to the jump-point and take the Lucian Carns to New Avalon.â€
“The Federated Suns capital why, to attack, Quineg?â€
“Neg, enter New Avalon via a pirate point and send a message to their high command using the frequencies we used before. I want you to find the Watch Cluster and return Star Colonel Canin Rosse to New Barcella. The Watch Cluster is to temporarily folded into the First Nova Cat Guards and Star Colonel Kalvin Rosse’s command. Do you understand?â€
“Aff, what if we are challenged or attacked by Federated Suns units?â€
“That should not happen but avoid conflict at all costs, the Federated Suns is currently home to nearly a Galaxy of our troops and three WarShips. I do not want them isolated and destroyed, we cannot afford those kind of losses. I want Star Colonel Canin Rosse here as soon as possible.â€
“Aff, my Khan I will leave at once.â€
Tall Trees, Saiph, New Canton
Saiph Triumvirate, Chaos March
31st August 3063
Following successful operations in the Sarna Supremacy the Capellan Confederation drops onto the three worlds of the Saiph Triumvirate. In three hours Tall Trees is conquered in six hours Saiph is under control and New Canton puts up no resistance after being held in check by the presence of the SLDF’s First Battle Armour Corps. Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao arrives the next day and after executing the leaders of the various states on New Canton, minus Count Balantine protected by the SLDF. He announces that he would welcome the SLDF remaining on the world maintaining order and offers to permanently cede the world to the SLDF.
Lieutenant-General Harry Sanders commander of the First Battle Armour Corps accepts for the SLDF ensuring the Capellan occupiers do not trouble the worlds population for leaving the Confederation during the Fourth Succession War. The populations of Tall Trees and Saiph are not so lucky with the SLDF troops on both worlds ordered to leave by Capellan troops. The SLDF units retreat to New Canton Lieutenant-General Sanders unwilling to push a conflict by using the Racicre River Raiders Regiment, Second Brigade, First Division to force the issue with the Capellans.
Sun-Tzu Liao travels to Tall Trees and Saiph to welcome the new worlds into the Capellan Confederation and deal with their leadership. Meanwhile Count Steven Balantine becomes Duke of New Canton under SLDF command with him seeing to running the planet and forming a government while the SLDF see to the defence of the world. The Racicre River Raiders and the three Battle Armour Battalions keeping orders and security, several raids are reported and dealt with by the SLDF troops. These raiders are using Capellan and Davion tech however that is no shock considering where they are and there is no proof to show who is responsible for the raids.
Three days later the Styk Commonality, two worlds ‘next door’ to the Saiph Triumvirate falls to the Capellan Confederation with little resistance. Again the Capellan Chancellor oversees the execution of the leaders of these two worlds. Although the entire Inner Sphere and SLDF speak out against these executions nothing is done about them.
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New Avalon Rivers Football Team
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
4th September 3063
While most of the Inner Sphere and even the Federated Suns called the game Soccer due to the amount of football teams in common usage the population of New Avalon and Avalon City called the game by its traditional European name, Football. Jacob Varnay held shares in one of Avalon City’s biggest teams The Rivers, although he held those shares under an assumed name, the Varnay family had not been popular in the Federated Suns since the failed coup and following Civil War in the late Twenty-fifth Century. First Prince Alexander Davion the leader of the Federated Suns following the Civil War had tried to eliminate all Varnays but he had been unsuccessful. Over time the Varnays had began to rebuild their strength and power but were still hated by the vast majority of the Federated Suns population, only the influx of Lyrans and money into the Federated Suns had opened more doors for the Varnay family, something Jacob would be eternally thankful to Hanse Davion for.
“I was wondering if you saw the new ship that Victor launched last month?†His contact said as they watched the game unfold it was a Cup Game The Rivers against a tiny team from New Scotland, The Celts.
“No I didn’t. You called me here to talk about one of the pint-sized prince’s new toys?†He said mocking Victor’s short height at the same time as showing his anger, he had not expected to be called down here for something so small.
“Well no, I was hoping your daughter would be here, Tera is so much easier to talk to her than her old man, and is far better to look at.†Jacob did nothing, Tera his eldest daughter was on assignment inside the Eleventh Avalon Hussar RCT under an assumed name. According to Tera, the Hussars were not happy at the current Princes policies or changes he was making to the military.
“Tera, is busy Franklin. Although when I see her I will tell her you were looking for her. Now business.†He said as The Rivers scored their first goal, the stadium with over twenty-four thousand people inside went crazy, fortunately their box was insulated from noise.
“As I was saying the Hanse Davion, was launched last month by Victor.†The man said “all very patriotic enhancing his image as a family man and such. Thing is the ship used to be the FSS Thunderchild, don‘t know where they got it…â€
“Wait a minute! The Thunderchild! The Thunderchild is my families flagship missing for almost six centuries! Are you certain?â€
“Oh yes, a salvage crew found it, apparently the new merc unit the Star Nova Galaxy group brought it in. Scared little Katherine away when they jumped in system at the start of the year with it.†He said as The Rivers scored their second “the Thunderchild was taken to Galax and given a substantial upgrade and some cosmetic changes to hide its real heritage and then re-launched to an unsuspecting public.â€
“Unbelievable!†Jacob exclaimed as The Rives scored another in as many minutes the crowd went crazy again covering his shouting “Victor, the pint-sized prince has just given me another weapon to use in his own downfall. Is there anyway we can get people onboard it?â€
“It is possible, for the right price.â€
“Anything, I want that ship. And contact Field Marshal Waters again, see if he is interested in my proposal. At least one of his RCTs have fallen for Tera’s charms…â€
“Not difficult†the other man said Jacob ignored him, he knew his daughters reputation before secretly joining the military and it wouldn‘t surprise him if she had continued to use her unique charms to get what she wanted.
“…having the oldest AFFS units on our side will confirm our right to the throne and a new Golden Age for the Federated Suns.â€
“It’s possible, and you won’t forget your friends.â€
“I never forget my friends, Simon, it‘s bad for business and my name makes that hard enough as it is.â€
“Of course, sire, I meant no disrespect.†He said smiling, Jacob and his entire family were the perfect tools. Simon Gallagher would report this to his Archon and she would be very pleased by how things were proceeding. If things went well the Varnays would attempt to gain control only to be beaten by Katherine and troops loyal to the Federated Commonwealth. Victor Steiner-Davion and his brood would be dead and Simon would be back in charge of the AFFC as he was destined to be. A week later Simon contacted Field Marshal Roger Waters and found the commander of the Avalon Hussars was very happy to help Simon and his client deal with Victor, he was also quite confident that the entire brigade of seven RCTs would be strongly behind their cause. Seven well equipped and trained Regimental Combat Teams and a Battleship were not bad place to begin.
Uninhabited Island
New Hebrides Isles, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th September 3063
Knowing that there would be a media and public frenzy around their wedding ceremony Victor and Danai had decided to hold a small private ceremony on the island he had proposed to her just over a year and a half before. Because they were both military officers they had both chosen dress uniforms for the ceremony although Danai had worn a long dark green dress under her uniform jacket and skirt and she had a Vail covering her face as was tradition. As was the tradition of the Davion family Victor wore the full dress uniform of the reborn AFFS green jacket with gold cuffs, and gold piping highlights decorations on the left breast and rank insignia on the shoulder epaulets, because there was no rank for First Prince Victor had chosen Field Marshal ranking strips. Danai’s jacket was exactly the same as Victor’s except it had Marshal rank epaulets and less campaign ribbons.
The guest list for the ceremony was wide and pan Federated Suns there was the Haseks of the Capellan March and the Sandovals of the Draconis March had joined them as had Arden Sortek and his wife as representatives of the Crucis March and personnel friends of Victor. The commanders of the Tenth Lyran Guards, Victor’s Revenants, were also here in the same uniforms they had worn during the Clan War this would be the last time they would be able to wear these uniforms before officially transferring to the New Avalon Guards units. Marshal of Armies Jackson Davion was here as was a couple of other members of the High Command. Danai had invited her sister Naomi but she had refused. So from outside there was the Allard-Liao family Candice, Duchess of St Ives Compact, Kai, heir to St Ives Compact and Cassandra, with her fiancé Tamas Rubinsky of Rubinsky’s Light Horse a long-term Mercenary Regiment of the St Ives Compact. Beside them stood Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion of the SLDF, here as a Hasek of the Capellan March and as a friend to Victor and Danai. And finally standing beside Yvonne at the front was Star Colonel Canin Rosse, dressed in his Black embroidered Nova Cat dress uniform with full insignia and cape, although the head-piece was missing. Victor had not been planning on inviting the Star Colonel, maintaining the secrecy surrounding the Nova Cat involvement in the Federated Suns however Yvonne had invited him and demanded he be allowed to be a Nova Cat, since there were no reporters present and the entire area had a fifteen kilometre seclusion zone around it. Danai had agreed with Yvonne and Victor had finally agreed with them.
The St Ives Compact delegation and Morgan had to be let in on the relationship the Federated Suns had began to form with the Nova Cats much to their shock, and slight horror, although after Victor explained exactly what the Nova Cats were doing and what they had done in St Ives/Capellan Confederation Conflict they had calmed down dramatically. With the St Ives Compact dependant on the AFFS to hold their independence against the Capellan Confederation and the Star League basing its biggest training base on a Federated Suns base plus Morgan being a former AFFS Marshal of Armies and a Ducal leader of a Federated Suns world Victor and the others were confident that they would remain quiet about the secret arrangement. Although peace rained between the guests and the Canin all were wary of the Nova Cat Warrior. Yvonne had shown her feelings for Canin however and the two had been together throughout hands linked, Canin for his part had taken Victor‘s advice to heart and had barely taken his eyes off Yvonne.
As the ceremony got underway, a traditional wedding ceremony despite the guests and the location, Victor felt strange looking at Danai, there was something not right. He would have liked more family to be here but that wasn’t it, there was something wrong.
At his seat Canin took his eyes off Yvonne for the first time since arriving, they were together now and although he wasn’t sure what was going on between them or what the future held he knew he wanted to be with her always, Canin looked straight up and suddenly Canin stood up, there was a gasp from all around Victor looked at him angrily. But then before anyone could say a word two Aerospace Fighters flew overhead with a shuttle between them. The shuttle landed behind the tree-line and a few moments later the occupants of the vessel arrived Peter Steiner-Davion, his surviving brother in full AFFC Dress Uniform, and to Victor’s surprise holding his hand Isis Marik who was dressed in a beautiful dark blue dress with her hair tied up. On Outreach during their training to fight the Clans Victor had been interested in Isis but found her slightly too arrogant and too naïve of Inner Sphere politics to seriously consider her as a potential mate, his father had liked the idea of Victor and Isis together and their marriage would have brought the Free Worlds League into the Federated Commonwealth but as far as Victor was concerned that was never on the cards and something between Victor and Isis could never have worked. “Peter!†Yvonne shouted running grabbing her brother, it had been ten years since they had seen each other. Victor broke from Danai and walked over to his brother.
“Sire, it is good to see you again†Peter said bowing slightly “sorry for my lateness, but finding out you where you were being married was not the easiest thing ever. I also have to apologies for the uniform, it isn’t my fault things changed when I was on leave†he said with a boyish smile on his lips, Victor was barely keeping a straight face himself and grabbed his brother hugging him “it’s good to see you too!†Peter said returning the embrace. As they broke Peter pulled Isis forward into the group as Danai joined them as well linking arms with Victor “please allow me to introduce, my wife Isis Steiner.†He said smiling as Victor looked dumbfounded as Isis curtseyed deeply. Danai noticed Victor wasn’t going to say anything so she spoke up.
“Peter, Isis, welcome to New Avalon. I am glad you could make it. Now dear†she said turning to Victor “I don’t want to rush you but we are supposed to be getting married ourselves.†Victor looked to her and turned her to face the priest who had re-appeared at their side.
“Victor Ian Steiner-Davion do you take Danai Kyalla Centrella as your lawfully wedded wife?â€
“I do†Victor said smiling looking deeply into Danai’s deep green eyes
“Dania Kyalla Centrella do you take Victor Ian Steiner-Davion as your lawfully wedded husband and accept to be the wife of the First Prince of the Federated Suns and to honour him and the nation.†The last bit was because she was from another realm Dania had not liked its addition to the proceedings but decided to forget it, she knew what she was doing and what she wanted.
“With all my heart, I do†she said.
“Then with these witnesses present…†The priest said as more fighters passed overhead and another shuttle began to land.
“Finnish it†Victor whispered “before something else goes wrong.†Victor said angrily.
“… and with the power invested in me I now pronounce you man and wife†the priest said “you may kiss the bride.†He said Victor raised the Vail and kissed Danai in a long embrace before breaking to see who the newcomer was. Three individuals approached keeping a distance off, two were in Elemental Battle Armour while another was in standard Nova Cat Uniform, Victor glanced at Canin who nodded and headed over to them. After several minutes of discussion Canin returned.
“First Prince Davion, Duchess Centrella, I am sorry for the intrusion however it appears that I must leave the Federated Suns earlier than previously planned.â€
“Leave?†Victor asked quietly
“Leave…†Yvonne said in but a whisper she was shocked and hadn‘t expected this day to come but not today of all days.
“Aff, the saKhan of the Nova Cats has been killed in combat and Khan West wants me to return to New Barcella immediately. There is a WarShip in system waiting to collect me. My cluster will fold with the First Nova Cat Guards for the rest of their mission here, Star Colonel Kalvin Rosse will be your new Nova Cat Liaison.â€
“I’ll be sorry to see you go, thank you for your time and skill Star Colonel.†Victor said. Canin nodded and turned to Yvonne.
“Duchess, I am sorry things between us were not realised sooner†he said kissing her gently on the cheek “I hope to see you again. Unfortunately, I do not know when that may be.†He said
“I do not want you to go†she said tears running down her cheek lowering her head.
“And I don’t want to leave†he said smiling as he used a contraction deliberately to make her more comfortable. "But I am a Clan Trueborn warrior and I have duties to follow." Tapping her cheek he smiled and she returned it then without another word he turned to leave walking off to join the other Nova Cats walking back to the shuttle.
“Victor†Yvonne said Victor and Danai turned to face her as did just about everyone else “I love you and I hope you are so happy, Danai make my brother happy, goodbye†she said kissing both her brother and his wife then turning to Peter “great seeing you again Peter, I hope you found what you were looking for and are happy†she said enveloping her brother in a hug “he’ll need you, congratulations†she said kissing Peter on the cheek then rushing forward as fast as her dress could carry her shouting at Canin.
“Yvonne…†Victor said, his own voice a coarse whisper, as her sister reached Canin there was few word spoken between them before Canin lifted her up and twirled her around before kissing her, the other Nova Cats looked completely shocked and did not know what to do. Canin lowered Yvonne to the ground and with a wave to the wedding party they began to disappear into the wood “…be happy†Victor finished glancing down at Danai giving her a long kiss.
“Okay, are we the only ones here totally confused?†Peter asked quietly glancing at Isis who looked just as confused “what is a Clanner doing on New Avalon? And why is Yvonne going away with them?â€
“That Clanner as you call him, saved New Avalon from Katrina’s machinations when I was fighting the Smoke Jaguars, saved Danai when the Capellans tried to kidnap her and ended the St Ives War.†Victor said looking at Peter who was beginning to realise how stupid his question had sounded, warranted but stupid. “He deserves our respect.†When the Nova Cats had first agreed to come to the Federated Suns and Victor had first thought he would never respect a Clansmen or count them as an ally they were just a tool he could use in the here and now something he could get rid of when the time came however, Canin Rosse was his ally and friend. He also realized that if things continued to blossom between his sister and the Nova Cat Star Colonel that they’d also be related.
“And Yvonne is going with him because she is in love with him, and he loves her.†Danai said as the Nova Cat Drop-Shuttle took off and began to climb. Victor leaned in and kissed her again as the Nova Cat vessel disappeared.
“Now let’s celebrate and catch up!†Victor said as a mammoth beach party began on the island, Victor only hoped Yvonne had made the right choice. The Lucian Carns was soon spiriting Canin and Yvonne clear of the Federated Suns and back to the Nova Cat’s Den.
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Okay a Flag on the Play. ::) :P Wow this is great and more surats are coming out the woodwork. I knew that IceQueen Bitch was up to something but the Varnays.
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Floating Tower
Federated Boeing Shipyards, Galax
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th October 3063
Just over a week after Canin and Yvonne had left New Avalon it was time for the Nova Cat Contract with the Federated Suns to end. There had been no further attacks on the shipyards and eighteen Federated Suns Regiments had gained valuable experience in fighting a Clan opponent. Before they left Victor called the Nova Cats all to Galax for one final goodbye. There at Galax he presented Star Colonel Kalvin Rosse commander of the First Nova Cat Guards with the first Conquistador-class DropShip to come off the assembly line. Victor had ordered this one specifically modified to transport the Watch Cluster as payment for their actions in the St Ives Compact. Kalvin promised Victor that the Watch would receive the unarmed hull and would arm and use it as they saw fit. And with that the entire Nova Cat Force began the steady withdrawal from Federated Suns space.
In the meantime Victor had been catching up with his brother Peter and Isis. Although they had known each other only a short time Victor had to admit they were a good couple together, far better a match than Victor and Isis could ever have been. Peter seemed calmer and far more in control now than he ever had and he seemed to be able to analyse things with just a split second thought, similar to what his father used to do and Isis seemed far more knowledgeable of the Inner Sphere, politics and people, than the last time they had been together. Peter explained to Victor privately that it was the Lyran priest on Zaniah that had proclaimed Isis Steiner that he had not asked her to forgo taking his full surname. Victor understood it fine and quietly told Peter that he thought it was good they were playing up his Steiner heritage as it would make Katherine constantly look over her shoulder.
Victor had offered Peter a position in the AFFS at least on a temporary basis until he and Isis worked out what they wanted to do, Peter had accepted and Victor had given him a commission as a Captain, one rank above his previous. Peter’s first assignment would be to be Victor’s eyes and ears in the Fox’s Den, it was not a great job but it would give Peter valuable experience at high level command material, Peter would be Victor’s Prince’s Champion. The Prince’s Champion was one of the most coveted positions in the entire AFFS and in some cases was equal to the Marshal of Armies second only to the First Prince, Peter had resisted since he had been out of the loop for so long but Victor convinced him that it was for the best to accept this position, at least for now. He also assigned Peter one of the Mechs the Blue Star Irregulars had delivered from the Lyran Alliance, initially he had wanted to give Peter a Hauptmann OmniMech however Peter had said he would prefer one of the Fafnirs which Victor had no problem with. As far a Victor was concerned it was only a matter of time that Peter would be ready to challenge Katherine for the Steiner throne and with Isis at his side the Lyran people would see someone who could deal with the Clan threat personally, mend the wounds caused with the split of the Arc-Royal Defence Cordon and with Isis they would see a leader who could provide the Lyran People with an Heir, something which Katherine could not promise.
Davion Family Dining Room, Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th October 3063
The Davion Royal Palace had several dining areas however the one favoured by the Prince was one on the first floor adjacent to his work office, it was small and simple and easily fit Victor, Danai, Peter and Isis without it feeling too big. As they ate Victor noticed Danai had hardly eaten her meal but had a smile on her face. “Are you alright?â€
“Sort of†she said, that wasn’t an answer Victor liked so he put down his drink and looked at her deeply, she seemed fine.
“What do you mean ‘sort of?’†He asked reaching out laying his hand on hers.
“It’s not a bad thing really, it’s just I won’t be able to pilot my Mech for a while and then there will be the lack of sleep but I’m sure I can handle that…â€
“What are you talking about?†Victor asked he was beginning to worry now, there must be something wrong with her for her to be talking about things she couldn’t do. “Is there something wrong with you?" No answer "Danai, are you alright?†he asked kneeling in front of her, he prayed she was, in Danai he had found someone he could act as he wanted and would be totally accepted, she was his sole mate in so many ways. Across the table Peter and Isis had both stopped eating Peter gently holding Isis outstretched hand as they waited for possibly bad news.
“I’ve never been better†Danai said slipping off her chair kneeling beside Victor “I’m pregnant!†She whispered to him smiling kissing him gently, Victor was shocked for several moments he did nothing and Danai began to get worried. “Are you alright? You're not mad… I think this is great but we have talked about this…†she said thinking that maybe Victor didn’t want kids of his own, he was First Prince of the realm but technically he could name anyone to be his successor for as long as she‘d known him he was a man of action not really the homely type, but he was her sole mate and she would support him with whatever he wanted.
“Mad? Mad?…†Victor said quietly then noticed Danai’s shock in his reaction “No, no, no! A baby†he said lifting her chin with his hand “US! A baby!†he said smiling kissing her “you and me…†he said his voice full of wonderment. Suddenly he was on his feet pulling Danai to her feet as he looked at Peter and Isis “we are having a baby!†He virtually shouted despite them being less than a metre away.
“Congratulations, I‘m…†Peter began as Victor leapt into the air punching the air “…happy for you both.†He said still holding Isis hand tightly.
“We both are, very happy, for both of you†Isis said reaching out to squeeze Danai’s hand. Victor was not listening though he walked into the corridor and grabbed one of the two guards, both guards immediately thought there was a problem.
“I want you to be the first to know†he then looked at Peter and Isis “well third and fourth to know†he said looking at the two troopers pulling them in close putting an arm around them as if he was back in the field heading for the bar “we†he said pointing to Danai then himself “are having a baby!†He said knocking their helmets off messing up both men’s hair, both men tried to maintain their discipline however neither could stop themselves smiling “com’on†Victor said slipping out from the guards grabbing Danai’s hand the half walked half ran down the corridor with Peter and Isis in hot pursuit along with both Royal Guard troopers. Victor and Isis came out of one of the palace’s many balconies. “You want this? Don’t you?†Victor whispered to Danai.
“With all my heart, yes†she said rubbing her belly, there was nothing there but she felt a strange sense of energy and growth.
“Then Duchess, I believe it is time that we told the world that†he said quietly looking at her smiling, Danai broke into a broad smile as they linked both hands and looked into the sky then they both shouted together.
“WE ARE HAVING A BABY!†They shouted together before embracing each other tightly, the future started here. Peter, Isis and the two guards looked on with a slight sense of bemusement and a slight feeling of awe, the future started here and they were witnessing it unfolding. Within the hour the whole of Avalon City knew about Victor and Danai’s happy news, by the end of the day the whole of New Avalon knew and by the end of the week the entire Federated Suns and beyond knew that Danai was pregnant and that Victor would have an heir. Soon the entire Inner Sphere knew as well and messages of encouragement began flooding in from people all around the Inner Sphere. Even Victor’s sister Katherine sent them a message of congratulations but from the way it was worded and written Victor knew it wasn’t Katherine that had written the message either an aide or member of the LAAF had sent it to allow the Lyran Alliance to keep face. Although Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao sent a message as well Victor saw it he deleted it he had not interest in what a Liao wanted to say, he was almost tempted to share that information with the Haseks, it might get them off his back, then he thought about sending the entire AFFS after the Capellan leader another thing that would make the Hasek family happy, he and Danai would have to be extra careful from now on.
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Lucian Carns (Anna-Rosse-class Battle-cruiser)
In System Burn, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
14th October 3063
Since leaving New Avalon Canin and Yvonne had been together nearly constantly officially Canin had passed off her presence as the Nova Cat’s First Official Ambassador to the Federated Suns. Some of the crew had resented having a ‘Spheroid’ in their midst’s and when they had been told to take Canin to New Barcella they had suggested dropping Yvonne off somewhere. Canin had almost challenged them to a Trial of Grievance however Yvonne had beaten him to it and challenged the warriors herself, to the surprise of all Canin included she won all three trials - one Mech battle, one chess game and one arm wrestle, these successes had gained her acceptance and respect with the Nova Cat crew something Canin could have never won for her, he was immeasurably proud of her actions.
Walking Canin and Yvonne into the Lucian Carns’ forward observation lounge hand-in-hand they looked at the planet below “welcome to New Barcella, the home to the Nova Cat Clan.†Canin said Yvonne released Canin’s hand and looked down at the globe. In high orbit ahead of the Lucian Carns there was a big Nova Cat WarShip standing guard and what looked like an under construction naval yard which were the first two things Yvonne saw and found herself immediately impressed, already there were two construction yard slips each large enough for the largest WarShip and another four under construction, none were filled with vessels but Yvonne wondered how long that would last. She looked down at the planet below and saw a planet covered almost entirely in water with only a small landmass.
“Oh my lord!†Yvonne exclaimed looking down at the planet as Canin stepped up, from orbit they could see everything through the crystal clear atmosphere including the outline of Philip Drummond City the planets largest land based settlement, from orbit it looked like a massive star reaching out of the planet’s crust, at sea the Borealis Settlement, a water based settlement was under construction twenty kilometres from Philip Drummond City, its sheer size clearly visible from orbit against the blue back-drop of the ocean. “It is beautiful!†She exclaimed looking at Canin who smiled looking at the Nova Cat’s Homeworld, it certainly was a wonderful world.
“Nearly eleven million Nova Cats reside there.â€
“Eleven million… eleven million Nova Cat Warriors and little me.†Yvonne said looking into space, she had wondered several times if she had made the right choice, Canin looped his arm around her back.
“Hey, you have me†he said quietly kissing her on the cheek. Once she had gotten past the cold warrior exterior that surrounded Canin she had found a romantic and warm man, something no-one could have thought looking at a Clansman. “And they are not all warriors. The only warriors on New Barcella are Alpha Galaxy, around four clusters of troops, the rest are trainee warriors, scientists and the lower castes.â€
“And you just found this world?â€
“Aff, we spread out from Tortuga and this gem laid for all to see. Sometimes I think it found us.†He said, an hour later with the Lucian Carns in high orbit Yvonne and Canin were on their way down to the planet. Their DropShip landing Philip Drummond City’s massive spaceport, since colonisation the spaceport had grown with the city and was now almost eight square miles, a quarter the size of the city and more than capable of holding more than twenty DropShips and an entire Galaxy of Aerospace Fighters with over a dozen landing pads and six criss-crossing runways. From their DropShips they were collected by a multipurpose land vehicle and taken down town. Because they had built this city from the ground up and not had to use another city as a template everything was ultra modern and clean and organised. Although the city was based on Katyusha City on Strana Mechty the Nova Cats had allowed the castes to mix more freely which had improved the Clan’s workings.
Unlike the approaches to the Davion Palace which was several kilometres outside Avalon City the Nova Cat Clan Hall in the centre of Philip Drummond City. Across from the front of the building was a statue of Nicholas Kerensky, founder of the Clans, while at one side was a statue of Philip Drummond, one of the Nova Cat founders, on the other side was a statue of Anna Rosse, the other Nova Cat founder, while behind the building was a statue of Alexandr Kerensky, Commanding-General of the Star League‘s Exodus Army that had become the Clans. The building itself was surrounded by a square kilometre of knee level hedge rows, there was no surrounding walls or fences only a pair of armoured Elementals at the front door. The Hall itself was about six stories high and had a neo-gothic feel to it.
Canin and Yvonne stepped out of the vehicle and looked around them “this is amazing†Yvonne said “it’s beautiful!†She said spinning around her long blue dress spinning around her.
“You sound surprised†Canin said, Yvonne closed on him and kissed him lightly on the lips.
“I am sorry, it is just I never expected anything like this on a Clan world. The Clans always seem so clinical and cold.â€
“We admire beauty, it is just we are also practical.†He said holding her hand he led her inside past the two guarding Elementals who stood straight like statues allowing the two to enter the Hall. Immediately inside the doors were another pair of armoured Elemental warriors these with their SRM racks removed from the Battle Armour. Walking inside the room they were immediately taken aback and Yvonne was flooded with memories of the Royal Throne Room on Tharkad. Standing behind the Khan’s desk were two massive statues of Mechs one a Nova Cat, the pride of the touman, and the other the Dragon Cat, sister design to the Nova Cat and personal ride of Canin Rosse. The similarities to Tharkad’s two BattleMech guards was startling however the Lyrans had real manned Mechs defending their throne and these Nova Cat Mechs were only marble statues. As they closed Yvonne marvelled at the detail seen on the Mechs, it was so detailed right down to individual nuts on each panel. Between them hung the insignia of Clan Nova Cat on a massive twelve metre tall banner.
“Beauty of the Mech, practicality of the statue†Yvonne said smiling “I like it†she said looking over the Mechs as Khan Santin West entered from one of the side doors.
“My Khan, you called†Canin said addressing Santin, he looked at Yvonne then to Canin slightly confused. “Allow me to introduce Duchess Yvonne Steiner-Davion, sister of First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion.â€
“Your bondsmen, Quineg?†Santin asked looking at Yvonne he saw no bondcord as was tradition for anyone captured and taken as abtakha and Canin had used her full name again against tradition.
“Neg, she came here as my guest and unofficially as ambassador to the Federated Suns.â€
“Officially?†Santin asked, he didn’t want anymore connections to the Inner Sphere power, things were moving too fast an ambassador was far too official for him.
“Officially I would like to join the Nova Cat Clan.†Yvonne said speaking before Canin could, Canin looked over at her surprised, she had never said such a thing before. “Khan West, I have been impressed with the warriors of your Clan and by Star Colonel Rosse especially. I have chosen to come here by my own free will to join Canin here on a permanent basis, and if the only way I can do this is to join the Nova Cat Clan and give up all my previous ties I am willing. I can fight if you wish however I am better at administration, I will do as you wish.†She said bowing slightly Santin looked to Canin.
“You are involved with this woman?†Santin said asked reading the situation almost straight away there was no disdain in his voice only a little surprise.
“Aff†Canin said there was no point in denying it he loved Yvonne and if it meant losing his rank and being abjurned from the clan he would take it.
“We will see how you do in a trial of position, if you pass then we will see where we can find a place for you, Yvonne Nova Cat†Santin said accepting her into the Clan stripping her of title and family names. “Star Colonel Canin Rosse, in the meantime I have a new duty for you. With Karl Devalis dead I need a new saKhan, I want to offer you command of Delta Galaxy and the position as saKhan.â€
“Should there not be a Trial of Position for the position? Quiaff?†Canin said Yvonne had a huge smile on her face. Canin would soon be saKhan second-in-command of the entire Clan!
“Aff, I cannot say with absolute certainty that you will not be challenged for the position, however, I need someone that I can trust and that knows the path our Clan is on. I believe you are such a man. Do you accept, Star Colonel?â€
“On one condition, my Cluster joins me in Delta Galaxy as my command Keshik.â€
“A cluster as a Keshik?†West said quietly mulling it over for a moment, it certainly would surprise anyone who engaged the Keshik, he nodded his agreement and extended his hand. Canin shook the Khan’s outstretched hand and in an instant became Clan Nova Cats next saKhan.
Ways of Seeing
New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
21st October 3063
After a few days wandering around Philip Drummond City Yvonne was beginning to wonder why she was here with the Nova Cats. Canin had been sent to see Delta Galaxy on New Port Royal leaving her very much alone. She had discarded the few items of clothing she had taken from the Federated Suns and wore a simple green jumpsuit adding the jacket Canin had given her when they were on Tortuga. In the morning of the third days Khan Santin West had come to her quarters and asked her if she could pilot a hovercraft, she had said she could and he had given her the keys to a Savannah Master Hovercraft. At first Yvonne had been surprised to see the five ton Inner Sphere built Hovercraft and wondered what Santin West’s giving her one had signified, did he want rid of her so badly? Instead Santin had said she could use the craft to get around the city and the surrounding area on her own and that he was recalling her escort guard giving her full freedom.
At first Yvonne had driven around the city fully exploring the Nova Cat Capital however after a week in the city Yvonne had decided to travel north of the city into the Ways of Seeing National Park. The Nova Cat warriors that had heard she was heading there alone thought she was crazy however Santin West had authorized it giving her a laser pistol and a vibro-blade for personnel protection and making sure she had full provisions with her.
Now several kilometres from the city Yvonne felt completely free, something she wondered if she had ever been, even on New Avalon she could never have been this free and alone it felt very liberating. Slowing the Savannah Master to a stop she climbed out of the small vehicle and looked around, she was totally alone. Hearing water down a small hill and baking in the heat Yvonne decided to climb down the hill ‘what’s the worse that could happen’ she thought - famous last thoughts. Leaving most of her things in the Savannah Master Yvonne had climbed down to find a that she was beside a lake connected to the seas, on all sides there were trees hiding it from everything, if she hadn’t stopped she would never have seen it.
In the baking New Barcella heat Yvonne stripped off her jumpsuit, her senses were screaming ‘what are you doing, someone may be watching’ but she really did not care diving in the water she laughed and enjoyed swimming in the warm water of the cove it was wonderfully relaxing and liberating to be able to swim surrounded by such beauty and not have to worry about anyone seeing her, who would care? After swimming for half an hour she climbed out and dressed back in her jumpsuit, without a towel it made the clothes slightly damp but the sun’s heat would soon dry her. As she dressed Yvonne turned startled seeing something out the corner of her eye, she was not alone! Someone had seen her! Someone was still watching her! “Hello!†She called “Who’s there?†She shouted suddenly there was a growl from behind her.
Spinning around Yvonne saw a black cat the size of a Terran Lion which was growling and snarling at her, as it growled at her its mane stood on end making its entire head look like a sun going nova. Yvonne quickly realised that this was a nova cat, she knew the Nova Cats had released them on the world but never expected to come across one, this was why the Nova Cats thought she was crazy. Bending down slowly she pulled on the black Nova Cat uniform jacket she'd kept since Canin gave her it, if she had to run for it she would be taking everything she could with her. The animal seemed to see something in the jacket and almost in an instant stopped acting aggressively, it leapt down from the rock it was mounted on and as it landed its mane lowered disappearing in it’s black hair. Yvonne stood completely still as the nova cat walked around her mewing like a domesticated cat as it sniffed her, from what she had read the nova cat was not an aggressive animal but it was a predator and it did eat meat so she kept an eye on the cat. However her concern was unwarranted as the cat growled one last time then disappeared into the trees, when she had read about the nova cat it was not a forest animal, why was it hear hunting her or anything else? Perhaps the species was changing to match the new environment of New Barcella.
Deciding to count her lucky stars and not ask questions Yvonne began heading back to the Savannah Master. After about ten minutes she realised she was not any closer to the vehicle, had she made a wrong turn or was she just further away than she had thought? With darkness beginning to close in Yvonne began to worry, everything was back in the hovercraft. Suddenly there was a growl behind her turning she saw the nova cat, or at least a nova cat she had no idea if it was the same one that had watched her before. The nova cat walked past her and into the woods, Yvonne’s first reaction was to walk the other way but the nova cat turned and growled at her. She decided to follow the beast, whether it was the right choice or not she would soon know. For nearly an hour she followed the animal every time she thought of changing her direction the cat growled, deciding to keep it happy she continued to follow. Nearly another hour passed and with near total darkness enveloping the area Yvonne though everything was lost when the nova cat leapt out of the trees onto the track right beside Yvonne’s Savannah Master. Yvonne ran to the hovercraft touching it to make sure it was real then looked back towards the nova cat to see it was gone, she had no idea where it had gone but there was no trace of the animal.
Yvonne climbed back in the craft and headed straight back to Philip Drummond City. When she arrived it was completely dark, she stored the vehicle then made her way into the command building heading for her guest quarters. Reaching the top of the stairs she saw Khan Santin West leave his office. “My Khan†she said quietly heading past the massive elemental, seeing Elementals around all the time had been strange to her for the first day or so but now she could see them as people it was perfectly normal.
“You are up late Yvonne, been on an adventure, Quiaff?†He asked closing the door walking with her down the corridor.
“Aff, I went to the Ways of Seeing Park as I planned and discovered a secluded cove, I went for a swim then as I headed back to my hovercraft I encountered a nova cat.â€
“A nova cat. Are you sure?†he asked quietly stopping.
“Aff, a black cat slightly smaller than a Terran lion with a mane that stands on end when it is angry.†She said describing the cat she had seen, Santin nodded it was a nova cat she had encountered, “it walked around me then disappeared.†She said continuing “I headed back to my hovercraft but I seemed to loose my bearings and after half-an-hour I was lost. I didn’t know what I would do, or what would happen. Then the cat reappeared it snarled at me then led me around for a couple of hours before leaving me beside the Savannah Master. I turned…†she stopped smiling slightly embraced “…I was going to thank it or something, but when I looked I saw it was gone, I do not know if it leapt back into the trees or disappeared into the night but there was no trace of it. So yes you could say I had an adventure.†She said smiling then noticed Khan West had a strange look on his face and in his eyes “what is it my Khan?â€
“We only released the nova cats held in captivity a day ago and that site was over twenty kilometres from here, you travelled only a few kilometres?†She nodded “how did it travel that far and find you?†He asked his voice filled with wonderment “I think perhaps you experienced a living vision.â€
“A what?†She asked, she had heard all about Nova Cat visions and doubted that she would ever experience one of her own, she was an outsider in the clan and possibly would be forever. Canin had said that it would take time for her to fit but if she wanted to it would, she was willing to give it time for her love for him was strong.
“You know of Nova Cat beliefs and visions, Quiaff?†Yvonne nodded “a living vision is very rare, when a nova cat is lost mentally or physically they give themselves over to the nova cat within them and it guides them back to the right path. I have only met one person my entire life who has experienced one†he reached out and touched her chest closing his eyes. Removing his hand he opened his eyes “perhaps Rosse saw more in you than your beauty. Goodnight Yvonne.†He said walking off smiling as he lit a cigar, in the week she had been here she had never seen Santin West smile. Nova Cat inside her or not Yvonne was tired and headed to bed, she would sort this out later.
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Nova Cat Command Base
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
12th November 3063
At the yearly Oathmaster’s grand melee Oathmaster Jal Steiner stuns the applicants by refusing to stand for the position of Oathmaster telling the applicants that he believes that if he continues any longer than the four years he has served he will loose his objectivity and be unable to guide the Clan effectively. He returns to his previous rank of Star Colonel, however has no current assignment. After a gruelling five days of combat and testing Star Commander Zane Carns becomes the new Nova Cat Oathmaster, in his acceptance speech he vows to step down like Jal Steiner did when he believes he has outlived his usefulness as Oathmaster, he then moves into a weeks worth of seclusion on Barcella.
Ghost Bear Dominion
Clan Occupation Zones
17th November 3063
With Clan Ghost Bear attacking the Draconis Combine Clan Hell’s Horses strike them from behind the Hell’s Horses quickly seizing Spittal, Goito and Radstadt destroying the 566th Provisional Garrison Cluster, of Clan Ghost Bear’s Xi Galaxy, which was tasked with defending those worlds. The invasion stalls however when Khan Malavei Fletcher leads an attack on Predlitz a world defended by a single Ghost Bear Trinary led by Star Captain Jake Kabrinski. The Ghost Bear warriors find help from the local population during the Hell’s Horses invasion, something they had not experienced on other worlds, and the Hell’s Hoses themselves quickly bogged down. The Hell’s Horses route when Star Captain Kabrinski engages and kills Khan Malavei Fletcher in personal combat despite his Elemental suit being lighter than the Khan’s Gnome Suit. Unable to continue without Fletcher’s drive and passion/hatred for the Ghost Bears the invasion stalls.
Trial of Position
New Barcella, Dagda Continent
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
28th November 3063
After training on various Clan OmniMechs and some BattleMechs Yvonne had chosen to use a ninety ton Kingfisher. The Kingfisher was an old Mech but a solid one. Looking at the standard weapon configurations available Yvonne had asked for and gained permission to fully customise the OmniMech to fight like she wanted it to. In the right arm she mounted an Extended-Range Large Laser while in the left arms she mounted an Extended-Range PPC. The left torso was home to a pair of Extended-Range Medium Lasers while the centre torso mounted a Streak SRM launcher with six-tubes and finally jump jets were fitted on the Mech’s back, a feature not common to the design.
Across the Circle of Equals stood a ninety ton Supernova BattleMech, the Khan had explained that because Yvonne was not another Clan Warrior and admitted herself she had no command experiance that she would fight one opponent in combat. Victory would grant her a place in the Clan, failure would be her death. Although the Supernova was a standard design the Mech easily had three times the Kingfisher’s long range firepower with a blistering array of six Extended-Range Large Lasers. Before the fight Canin had told her the only chance she would have was to get in close and make the Supernova pilot to fire his weapons too often causing the Mech to overheat.
“I, Yvonne, call this circle of equals and challenge for the right to serve within Clan Nova Cat. May no other enter.†She said into the communication system beginning the traditional trial.
“I, Star Colonel Neil commander of the First New Barcella Guards Cluster, refute your challenge to enter the Nova Cat Clan. This is a solemn task, may no other enter.†Her challenger said then they both chanted together “Seyla!†into the comm. system beginning the trial.
After a brief pause the trial began with the Supernova pilot, Neil, launching his BattleMech into the air towards Yvonne’s location. Yvonne ran her Mech forward as well firing both the PPC and the large laser the PPC slammed into the Supernova’s left arm while the laser went slightly wide. The Supernova, still mid-flight, struck out with three of his own large lasers however the blast of the PPC threw the shot off-line and Neil barely controlled the Mech’s landing. Yvonne knew she had a chance keeping the pace up she opened fire with both the PPC and the laser again, the Kingfisher’s heat sinks dealing with the heat produced easily. This time both weapons struck low on the Supernova’s right leg melting away most of the armour there. Neil returned fire with the Supernova’s six large lasers four slammed into the Kingfisher throwing Yvonne around as the Mech lost over two tons of armour. The Kingfisher slammed into the ground and Yvonne could hear armour being crushed by the impact of ninety tons of Mech hitting the ground. Rolling over she tried to pick the mighty OmniMech up, she had trained doing this a lot and was able to raise the mighty machine in one try. Turning she was pleased to see that the Supernova was locked in position overheated from constant firing. Triggering the Streak SRM launcher and both torso mounted medium lasers she was pleased to see the laser carve into the Supernova’s left torso while the SRMs struck all over the Mech. As the Supernova began to cool and power back up Yvonne launched the Kingfisher skyward over the Supernova, clear of the Mech she cut the jets and landed, as the ninety ton Mech landed there was a slight stumble but she was able to keep control turning around she noticed the Supernova was now almost fully powered up raising its arms looking for her Kingfisher. Aiming low on the Supernova’s back Yvonne triggered the PPC, Large and medium lasers and the SRM rack in the classic ‘alpha-strike.’ Every single one of the weapons slammed into the Supernova’s back the lasers melting what little armour was mounted there then the SRMs hit burrowing deep inside the Mech taking out the Mech’s gyroscope. Without the powerful piece of balancing equipment to keep the Mech upright the Supernova keeled over disabled.
“MechWarrior Yvonne, you are victorious today. Welcome to Clan Nova Cat!†The comm. system announced, it took Yvonne several moments to realise it was Canin speaking “I am proud of you.†He added then the signal went dead. Yvonne nodded looking at the downed Supernova ‘that wasn’t too difficult, but I don’t want to do this with the rest of my life’ she thought, she wasn't a warrior at heart, probably never would be.
Merchant Sector Administration
Philip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den
30th November 3063
Although Yvonne had been accepted as a freeborn warrior in the Nova Cat Clan and had proven her worth in a Mech she had made it clear to even Khan West that she was not a warrior by heart. To her surprise, Khan Santin West had respected her position and had her removed from active service in the Nova Cat Touman almost immediately, instead of being a warrior she was transferred to the New Barcella Civilian Administration in the Merchant Sector of the city. From there Santin explained that she would be able to oversee all operations on New Barcella and that she would be in charge of making sure the lower castes stayed out of his way and out of the way of his troops. “Wait I’m in charge here? I just arrived.†She said looking over at the Khan, the rest of the civilian castes looked shocked that she a lowly worker was questioning their Khan’s wishes and with contractions.
“First drop the contractions. Second you ran the Federated Suns for a whole year, I am sure you can run this planet. There is a mountain of paperwork in that office†he said pointing to a closed wooden door “it was mine it is now yours. Any major plan you have gets cleared with myself or the saKhan is that understood, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, my Khan†Yvonne said quietly lowering her eyes in acknowledgement.
“Good, saKhan Rosse will be your liaison with me, I am sure he will be able to cater to your every need.†Santin said lifting a cigar to his mouth lighting it to cover the smile that had slowly appeared “I shall take my leave†he said stepping out of the room “saKhan?â€
“I will remain a while and ensure she has everything that is needed, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, I shall see you in the morning. Do not keep him up too late Yvonne†he whispered bursting into laughter as he walked down the corridor, Canin shook his head slowly surprised at the Khan's reaction to recent events. Yvonne walked into the office Santin had indicated to as they opened the door some paperwork fell off the table joining the massive pile of paperwork currently covering nearly all the floor of the room.
“Great, looks like I am in for an all-nighter†she said stepping into the office, it was only about three o’clock in the afternoon, that was the scale of the task ahead of her. Despite the technology of the Clans it appeared that paper followed everything, it also appeared the Khan had no time for it. Picking up a letter she noticed the date on it “this is dated 3061 it has sat here unopened for two years! Has the Khan not heard of delegation?†She asked looking at Canin as he closed the door behind him, a small smile crept onto his face. “What?†She asked looking at him standing up straight “What is so funny?â€
“You†he said “most Clansmen would look at this and have a heart-attack. I think West ignored it for so long because of that reason.†he said stepping into the room over a pile of letters “you look at it and say ‘it will take all night’ you are amazing†he said kissing her forehead.
“You know everything to say†she said kissing him back “you know your people can see us?†she said nodding her head to the glass panel windows and the six open mouthed clerks.
“Let them watch†he said lowering his head to kiss her, Yvonne returned his kiss but broke off after a couple of seconds “What is wrong? Had enough of me now you have a new job?†Yvonne punched his arm playfully then kissed him on the cheek and whispered in his ear.
“The Khan gave me a job and you are getting in the way. So either help or go.†She said turning to the papers picking some up shifting though them.
“Yes, wife. I will get some coffee then we can get started.†He said, Yvonne froze in space “something wrong?†He asked walking up behind her placing both hands on her shoulders “Yvonne?†He asked getting no response.
“What did you call me?†She whispered softly.
“It was nothing, I am sorry.†He said breaking off realising his joke was the wrong type of one to make. He’d heard men in the Inner Sphere say that all the time when given an order by a woman they were involved with but perhaps his use of the words was wrong.
“Would you marry me?†She asked still staring away from him into space.
“Are you proposing?†He said jokingly stepping to the door opening it leaning out, “we need a pot of strong coffee and several boxes.†He said to one of the civilian clerks, she nodded and rushed off, it wasn’t every day a saKhan gave them orders. When Canin turned around Yvonne was standing right there pushing him into the door closing it.
“If I was proposing, would you marry me?†She asked again, Canin took a deep breath and looked away. Yvonne broke off and stepped into the room “so that is what I am to you a plaything from somewhere far away.†Canin stepped into the room behind her and grabbed her arm spinning her to face him, tears were running down her cheeks.
“There has not been a Trueborn involved in a marriage for centuries not since the earliest days of the Clans has such an event happened. It goes against hundreds of years of tradition.†He said trying to rationalise it Yvonne’s tears became denser and denser.
“So that’s it then? We’re done. Because if you want nothing more then I need to be alone, I need to find a way to fit. I left everything to be with you, Canin!†She shouted throwing down a bunch of papers as she broke loose from his grip turning away clearing space on the desk by brushing everything to the floor, she was crying pretty constantly now, her entire life had revolved around being with Canin and now that seemed very unlikely, she didn‘t even want to look at him.
“Ask… Ask me again…†Canin stammered sounding unsure of himself and what he was saying.
“Ask you what saKhan?†She asked formally wiping her face clear, she still refused to look at him.
“Yvonne, will you marry me, Quiaff?†Canin said in an equally formal voice, now steady, confident. Yvonne turned to face him Canin was looking right at her a tear running down his own cheek. There was a slight nod between them confirming that he was serious. “You want to get married?â€
“Aff, I will marry you†she said stepping forward kissing him long and passionately, Canin broke off.
“I do not know if the Khan will let me marry you, he has allowed us to remain together as lovers, I do not know what his reaction to a formal arrangement will be. Santin West is unpredictable and Clan Law leaves little support for us.â€
“But you are seriously committed to this?†She asked whispering.
“If you are, I am one hundred percent committed to this, one hundred percent committed to you.â€
“Then that is all I needed to hear, let them do their worst.†She said kissing him again the clerk came in put down the steaming pot of coffee and the four boxes and left again and they never broke off the kiss, no doubt their involvement would be around New Barcella‘s civilian castes in a matter of hours. They finally finished sorting the documents eight hours later splitting them into the four different boxes separated by year and by category i.e. City Business and Non-City Business on New Barcella. The saKhan declared victory Yvonne knew differently, it would take weeks to sort through everything and no doubt more paperwork would follow, but she had to agree it was a start.
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Clan Nova Cat Hall
Philip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den
31st November 3063
When Canin informed the Khan of what had happened the night before following his departure the Khan had laughed not believing something like that could have happened, an hour later he was not laughing. “You are the saKhan of this Clan! You cannot get married like some freebirth!â€
“I cannot and will not abandon or ignore my feelings. I love Yvonne.â€
“What of the Nova Cats? Your loyalties to your Clan, to me, mean nothing because you have met some freebirth woman?â€
“Every fibre of my being believes in our Clan, but every fibre also believes in my love for Yvonne. I will fight anyone who challenges me over this my Khan and I do not care if this causes my Bloodname, rank and place in our Clan. I will be a Nova Cat in heart and soul even if you caste us out.†Canin said passionately Santin West looked into his eyes and could almost see the Nova Cat spirit trying to break out of the saKhan, rarely did he encounter a warrior that embodied the Nova Cat spirit so much.
“We would have to rationalise this†West said quietly sitting down behind his desk, the last thing he wanted was to loose another saKhan it would add support against him and possibly put the Nova Cats down a more dangerous path. “You said to me you had a vision on Tortuga that said you met a woman from a nation of warriors and that she was a warrior as well, but she was not a warrior of heart.†Canin nodded barely believing that Santin West was thinking about allowing this to go on “you forgot to mention that at the end of the vision you and this woman merged as one and had offspring who guided the Nova Cat Clan into a difficult but prosperous future.†He said, Canin had seen none of this. "And you forgot to tell me that Biccon Winters witnessed this and confirmed this path before you met Yvonne and Winters died."
“My Khan… I cannot…†Canin began not knowing how to word it but West beat him to it.
“You will do as I say!" West shouted raising to his feet "you love Yvonne?†Canin nodded, that he was sure of “her ties to House Davion make a powerful ally for our Clan, one I cannot afford to lose. If I was to cast you and her out then I would create a powerful enemy. You got me into this position, you are going to help me control it or by the Kerensky's I will make you and her suffer." West threatened his anger steadily growing, turning away from Canin he looked out the window. "You experienced the full vision that I laid out. And when I am gone you will be the one to lead our Clan into the future and your offspring with Yvonne will mark the beginning of a new generation, a new way of life for Clan Nova Cat.†Santin West said Canin’s head was swimming, could what Santin was saying work? And had he just suggested they have children? Freeborn children who would be symbols of the Clan? The other Clans would caste the Nova Cats out for such actions, his own Clan could caste them out! West's plan was a dangerous one, Canin wondered exactly what he'd gotten himself and Yvonne into by accepting her into the Clan.
An hour later Santin West was announcing it to the Clan via HPG informing the Clan of a vision experienced by Canin and witnessed by Santin that Canin was destined to be with Yvonne for the rest of his life and that by a Decree of the saKhan Canin Rosse and Yvonne had a right to be married. The Nova Cat civilian population, mostly freeborns lauded over by Trueborns all their lives, went slightly wild with celebration of this change in Nova Cat philosophy while the Warrior population were convinced to hold their reservations for now because of the vision, one confirmed by an Oathmaster. How long that lasted was in the eye of the beholder. Santin also authorised Yvonne to send a message to New Avalon via courier vessel informing her brother of her impending marriage and inviting a small party to New Barcella for the big event.
Imperial Palace
Luthien, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
15th December 3063
Unable to find a way to turn around the Clan Ghost Bear aggression and with the DCMS loosing ground on several worlds Tai-shu Tomoe Sakade commits seppuku unable to live with the dishonour of her failures. Coordinator Hohiro Kurita temporarily takes over the position of Warlord of Pesht District. The DCMS successfully push the Ghost Bears off Luzerne reclaiming the world. Hohiro Kurita contacts the Ghost Bears and offers them a way to end the War with on honourable fight. The Ghost Bears agree and the world of Courchevel is chosen if the Bears win they will keep Courchevel but return all territory gained and be returned all territory lost and vice versa. One stipulation by both sides is that every unit involved in the fighting send a group of warriors to the battle meaning that every unit has its honour and martial prowess acknowledged for all to see.
Trial of Possession
Courchevel, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
22nd December 3063
Following a gruelling battle which batters all forces involved the Ghost Bears win the Trial of Possession for the world of Courchevel. As agreed the Ghost Bears retain the world but return all other territory and equipment, including two WarShips, to the Draconis Combine. The Combine similarly return all territory and personnel to the Ghost Bears. The Ghost Bears turn their full attention on the Hell’s Horses who have struck at their other border.
Eagle’s Nest Watch point, Jade Falcon Territory
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
31st December 3063
With most of their assets deployed in the Inner Sphere Clan Jade Falcon weaken their defences of a small enclave on Barcella, gained when the Smoke Jaguars retreated to Huntress before their demise. Believing that no-one will notice this they leave a second-line cluster, the 109th Striker Cluster of Zeta Galaxy, in charge and abandon the outpost moving critical assets to their Inner Sphere Occupation Zone and other more secure Homeworlds territory.
The Nova Cats notice this move, however, and newly elevated Oathmaster Zane Carns leads the Ninety-ninth Battle Cluster of Upsilon Galaxy and his Bodyguard Trinary against the defenders. The Jade Falcon commander, Star Colonel Fresic Irons, angry that his unit has been abandoned on a worthless piece of territory deep in the Barcella mountains broaches a deal with Oathmaster Carns. He will fight a one-on-one battle with Zane Carns, if he wins the Ninety-ninth Battle will become Jade Falcons and they will leave the territory. If he looses his 109th Striker will become Nova Cats and the Nova Cats will secure the territory. Either way the Nova Cats secure a significant portion of Barcella and over four million inhabitants, many former Nova Cats lost when the Smoke Jaguars and then Jade Falcons secured the territory.
Zane agrees to the battle then defeats Fresic Irons’ Summoner in one-on-one combat. The 109th Battle Cluster becomes part of Upsilon Galaxy serving the Nova Cats much to the anger of the Jade Falcons, however since it was within Clan rules and law there is nothing they can do about it.
In other places in the Homeworlds the Star Adders loose the 212th Battle Cluster of Epsilon Galaxy and the 884th Gatekeeper Cluster of Kappa Galaxy while the Stone Rhinos loose the Twenty-eighth Striker and the Forty-first Battle Clusters of Alpha Galaxy defeating the five clusters of Clan Blood Spirits Upsilon and Sigma Provisional Galaxies. Following the battle the Stone Rhinos accept the reformed Blood Spirit 181st Crimson Guards Cluster as abtakha while the Star Adders take the Eighty-eighth Crimson Guards, this is a Trial of Absorption not annihilation.
The end of 3063 hope you enjoyed
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into 3064
3064
Draconis Combine Staging Base
Harrow’s Sun, Matsuida Prefecture
Galedon Military District, Draconis Combine
4th January 3064
In the early morning on the northern continent the Graves’ Dancers Company under the commander of renegade Federated Suns officer Jean Graves launches an unprovoked attack on the DCMS Garrison killing the mainly armour and infantry force to the man taking no prisoners or salvage from the battle. Observers of the battle claim that Jean Graves’ Penetrator BattleMech takes not a single hit during the battle and every time her unit appears to be boxed in or walking into a trap they suddenly turn unexpectedly throwing their opponents into complete disarray. The unit, now officially classified as a pirate unit, leaves Harrow’s Sun within an hour of the beginning of the attack rejoining their Merchant-class JumpShip leaving the system.
This assault threatens to start a second border skirmish between the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine however negotiators on both sides are able to avert further crisis a bounty is placed on Graves’ Dancers as a unit and Jean Graves as a person.
Trial of Position
Engadin, Hell’s Horses Territory
Clan Occupation Zones
15th January 3064
Following the death of their Khan Malavei Fletcher on Predlitz during the offensive against Clan Ghost Bear’s Dominion Star Colonel James Cobb beats all comers to become Clan Hell’s Horses new Khan. He immediately begins preparing his Clan for the inevitable Ghost Bear counter-attack finding that the support the Hell’s Horses have been receiving from Clan Wolf has dried up.
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Proving Grounds, General Motors
District City, Kathil
Federated Suns, Capellan March
22nd January 3064
Unlike the other nations of the Inner Sphere the Federated Suns had been dedicated to upgrading all its conventional BattleMech force instead of creating many brand-new OmniMechs giving them a larger overall upgrade percentage to Mechs than other nations, only outstripped by the Free Worlds League. The only reason the Templar, the nation’s first OmniMech, had came into being was because of Field Marshal George Hasek’s desire for an OmniMech designed and built in the Federated Suns and had been willing to spend his own families money to give the Federated Suns the Mech. Following this debut two years before First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had authorized more national money and resources transferred to the OmniMech development. Kallon Industries, creators of the first OmniMech had received more money and resources, however so had their rival General Motors of Kathil had gained more tech and resources with some help from the visiting warriors and techs of Clan Nova Cat had finished their initial project two years early.
“Field Marshal Hasek, Marshal of Armies Davion, you presented us with a challenge to provide the Federated Suns with a unique OmniMech that would be a worthy successor to the Templar. As a base we decided that we did not want another assault Mech, the Templar is already a worthy entrance to this class†Hoban Cobb, Chief Executive Officer of General Motors said giving Kallon Industries credit was difficult but well deserved in his opinion. “With the Federated Suns tradition of mobile warfare and a recent study of the AFFS which showed they were them most popular class of Mech we chose an entrance to the medium-class. This was a difficult but worthwhile…â€
“Get on with it Mr Cobb.†Jackson said, trust a CEO to make things sound a million times more difficult that they were, all he was interested in was seeing if the Mech they had paid millions for already was worth it.
“Of course†he said reaching over to the communication system “bring out the X-1†he said. The first Mech moved clear of the factory.
“It’s a Stealth!†George Hasek shouted “we were looking for the new OmniMech Cobb, don’t waste our time!â€
“Yes, sire it is†Cobb said he did not seem that bothered by the Field Marshal’s distaste for the Mech, the Stealth BattleMech had been debuted almost ten years before. He saw that Morgan Hasek-Davion’s son was not amused at the company had shown them a decade old BattleMech and carried on forward “the Stealth is one of the Inner Sphere’s most successful BattleMechs it is fast, manoeuvrable and carries a decent array of weapons for a design of its size.†He said touching the comm. system “bring out X-2 and X-3†he said two more Stealths walked out they all looked physically similar but had different weapons. “The X-1, 2 and 3 Designs all use the weapons configurations already seen on the various Stealth BattleMechs.â€
“No offence intended Mr Cobb but we wanted an OmniMech not a Mech that could emulate our successful BattleMech design. Now if you are unable to give us an original design perhaps we should have gone with Kallon as the Field Marshal suggested.†Jackson said, although impressed with the Stealth in general he had expected something more than a simple upgrade of a current design. It was exactly like the original Draconis Combine OmniMechs all copies of successful Clan or Inner Sphere BattleMechs.
“Marshal Davion, that is the first three configurations, all designed to be test beds for the design and to give MechWarriors a touchstone with the design. Also on the field an enemy would not know if he was facing the same Mech in three engagements or facing three different designs, allowing a unit to hide its numbers at least in the short term.†Cobb pointed out Jackson nodded seeing some worth in the design after all, but still it was not as impressive as he was hoping “also we have three new design configurations all showing a new aspect to the Stealth design.†Cobb said smiling touching the comm. system again “bring out X-4, X-5 and X-6†he said three more Stealths walked out, normally a company made two or three prototypes not six this showed General Motors commitment to the design. “This first makes use of the new C3 Master computer making it an effective company or lance Mech we combine that with five brand new Extended-Range medium lasers, the second uses the smallest of the new Rotary Autocannons with plenty of ammo and the third uses an experimental light autocannon, a four-tube SRM rack, a Slave C3 unit and a targeting computer module. Mixing this with the Stealth’s inherent features these all make the Mech a very effective OmniMech design.â€
“Nice idea, if a little premature on the NAIS’s new light autocannons, I was not aware NAIS cleared them for deployment.†Hasek said admiring the six Mechs, all were a variation of the Stealth BattleMech, thinking about what Cobb said he was right the Stealth was an impressive design already giving it OmniMech characteristics made the design even better, even more impressive.
“They haven’t, but I know someone†Cobb said boasting before he realised who he was boasting too “the light autocannon is a decent weapon and on the Stealth it shows that it makes a decent fast attack weapon on a medium design.â€
“No weapons on the arms†Jackson said looking over the Mechs arrayed in front of him.
“There is space, but we chose to keep to the Stealth’s basic structure with fully useable arms on each OmniMech, arms are something you don’t see a lot on OmniMechs, we aim to buck that trend and it gives us a unique aspect to an OmniMech.â€
“I like it and it will be a proud addition to the Capellan March armies.†George Hasek said smiling proudly.
“You mean it will be a proud addition to the Federated Suns Armed Forces Field Marshal?â€
“Of course, I just meant it is nice to see that we are keeping on the cutting edge and that with the deployment of the Capellan Men Shen we will need this Mech more than the other Marches, this Mech should make a nice foil to the Capellan OmniMech.†He said, Jackson nodded the new Stealth would match the Capellan OmniMech quite well and had little to oppose it from the other armies of the Succession Lords, the new Stealth may even challenge the Clan Shadow Cat.â€
“I agree, a nice addition.†Jackson said “from a shaky start Mr Cobb you have produced a worthy design and I will happily welcome the Stealth OmniMech into the AFFS.â€
Command Deck, White Cloud (Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser)
Outworlds Alliance, Baliggora, Periphery
18th February 3064
Scouting the periphery regions of the Inner Sphere’s Draconis Combine and Outworlds Alliance Clan Snow Raven had found several colonies which had been scoured of all life, attacked by an enemy. The commander of the WarShip White Cloud, Star Admiral Shu, entered the Outworlds Alliance against Clan orders with the intent on gaining intelligence on the Outworlds Alliance by capturing one of the periphery nations JumpShips. Encountering an Outworlds Alliance vessel in the Baliggora system the Star Admiral contacted the JumpShip’s commander and arranged a trial. Two Snow Raven fighters would fight against two Outworlds Alliance fighters, if the Snow Ravens won they would take the JumpShip its crew and both attached DropShips as Isorla if they lost the Outworlds Alliance crew would be free to go and would gain one of the Snow Raven’s Titan-class DropShips.
In a reversal of fortunes the Snow Raven pilots were defeated by the Outworlds Alliance flyers and the Snow Ravens lost the trial. Handing over the Titan to the periphery victors the Snow Ravens were intrigued by these ‘barbarian’ flyers from the periphery and gained a massive amount information from the Outworlds Alliance crews as they took over command of the vessel. Star Admiral Shu contacted Khan Lynn McKenna and related his pilots failures and his intrigue caused by the contact with the periphery warriors. Lynn McKenna informed Shu that she wanted the White Cloud crew to contact the Outworlds Alliance leaders and open a dialogue with the nation as it seemed that they valued the aerospace fighter and the naval arts just as the Snow Ravens did.
York, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
28th February 3064
Clan Star Adder and Stone Rhino conqueror York with Star Adder Khan Stanislov N’Buta killing Blood Spirit Khan Karianna Schmitt in personal combat. Clan Stone Rhino absorbs the entire Omega Galaxy almost without a shot being fired however during the fighting against the Blood Spirits Alpha Galaxy the Star Adders loose the 193rd Dragoon Cluster of Epsilon Galaxy and the Eighty-fifth Adder Cavaliers Cluster of Alpha Galaxy while the Stone Rhinos loose their entire Gamma Galaxy.
After taking their salvage and a large amount of on-hand equipment from the planet the Star Adders make the most surprising move of all, they turn the entire planet of York over to the Stone Rhinos almost doubling the Stone Rhino population.
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Secret Fleet Anchorage, ComStar Controlled
Location: Somewhere in Lyran Alliance
4th March 3064
In response for increased Word of Blake activities ComStar activated the first Intrepid-class Troopship in a hidden anchorage inside the Lyran Alliance. The Saratoga, as the vessel was named, would move secretly to ComStar’s Ross 248 Anchorage and exercise with the fleet based there before joining one of the ComGuards Armies and working with them. With the launching of the Saratoga ComStar take a massive step towards retaking Terra without the Word of Blake knowing a thing. Because this is such a militaristic move ComStar do their best to hide the vessel’s activation from the rest of the Inner Sphere powers and even their own people keeping the existence of the Intrepid-class a guarded secret for as long as possible.
Draconis Combine/Lyran Alliance Border
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
14th-24th March 3064
In retaliation for the assassination of Omiko Kurita in 3062 and the assassins subsequent admission that he was hired by Duchess Margaret Aten of the Lyran Alliance’s Skye Province the Draconis Combine attacks several worlds along the border. The Worlds of La Blon and Rigil Kentarus fall in quick succession however on Port Moseby the Draconis Combine troops led by the newly formed Third Genyosha Regiment, commanded by Duke Minoru Kurita, slam head long into the LAAF’s Third Royal Guards RCT and the Twenty-sixth Lyran Guards RCT two veteran commands. The battle soon bogs down and threatens to spiral out of control as both sides commit more forces.
On the 18th, the fourth day of the battle for Port Moseby, the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser LAS Cairo engages the Combine Kyushu-class Frigate DCS Draconis Rift while escorting the Seventh Alliance Guards RCT, a newly formed regiment formed from the ashes of the Federated Suns FedCom Corps. In a six hour battle the two vessels are heavily damaged and both retreat allowing the Seventh to make landfall.
On the 20th, sixth day of the battle, the Draconis Combine land the Elite Ryuken-Go Regiment on the planet after they enter via a pirate point deep inside the system avoiding Lyran Defence Patrols.
On the 21st, seventh day of battle, Archon Katherine Steiner-Davion calls on the Star League Defence Force to intervene and stop this uncalled for aggression by House Kurita, although she publicly points out that with Hohiro Kurita serving as the current First Lord she expects no help to be forth coming. Coordinator Hohiro Kurita publicly says he will not use SLDF troops to accomplishes his goal, and will not stop the SLDF deploying on Port Moseby as peacekeepers, he also releases information that Duchess Margaret Aten hired the assassin to murder his sister and that although it was not the Lyran Alliance who killed Omiko it was one of their citizens and the nation would pay.
Following the Lyran Archon’s call for support and the First Lord’s declaration that he would not stop SLDF troops being deployed to Port Moseby Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion of the SLDF deploys the 151st Light Horse Regiment or the Eridani Light Horse, based on Dieron, to Port Moseby on the 24th. The 151st orders are to render humanitarian aide where possible and to stop the Lyran and Draconis Combine troops from fighting in urban areas, they are not to interfere with open country battles. The Light Horse arrive on the 26th by that time the Twenty-sixth Lyran Guards RCT have ceased to exist and have been folded into the Seventh Alliance Guards RCT and Third Royal Guards RCT.
With SLDF troops arriving on Port Moseby the Draconis Combine’s Forty-fifth Dieron Regulars strike at the Mobile Fire Mercenary unit based on the world of Accrington, within a jump of Port Moseby. Officially this is in response to several raids by the Mobile Fire Mercenaries. The Draconis Combine troops give no quarter to the Mobile Fire troops and although it destroys the Forty-fifth Dieron Regulars Mobile Fire are forced off the world with less than a single battalion of troops, from two regiments and a battalion. The Combine troops quickly secure the world cutting Port Moseby’s Lyran defenders off from further support. Star League Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion calls for end to fighting.
Federated Boeing Shipyards
Port Simon Shipyards, Galax
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th April 3064
After a year of upgrading the Wolf’s Dragoons Congress-class Beowulf launches from Galax shipyards beginning a months trials which end with the Beowulf, accompanied by Epsilon Regiment and Zeta Battalion, return to Outreach ending the year long contract the Dragoons held with the Federated Suns. The Beowulf passes all marks set leading to an acceleration and broadening of the Federated Suns plans for the Congress Block II-class.
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York, Clan Stone Rhino Holdings
Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
24th April 3064
Clan Steel Viper becomes the first Clan to strike at York since Clan Stone Rhino assumed full control over the world they are beaten back by the Stone Rhinos troops on planet including entire stars of former Blood Spirit Warriors serving their Clan. The Stone Rhinos begin building a Primary Genetic Repository on York intent on making York their new capital. By the end of the month Clans Cloud Cobra, Goliath Scorpion and Snow Raven have all challenged for and lost areas of York.
Arboris and Genoa
Chaos March/Federated Suns Borders
4th May 3064
With First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion seemingly unwilling to act and the Draconis March busy ensuring the territory they have seized from the Draconis Combine is safe Field Marshal George Hasek of the Capellan March orders his troops into action along the Chaos March borders. The Lexington Combat Group, a three regiment mercenary unit, and the Illician Lancers Mercenary Brigade, four regiments plus support, drop onto the worlds of Arboris and Genoa two worlds sandwiched between the Federated Suns and the Capellan Confederation.
The Lexington Combat Group encounters the Heavyhell Raisers on Arboris a battalion strength mercenary command with known Capellan Confederation ties. Following a warning from the LCG’s commanders the Heavyhell Raisers attempt to wage a guerrilla campaign with aide from Capellan-sponsored Terrorist Organisations however against three elite regiments with full support the Heavyhell Raisers are no-more by the end of may and Arboris is mostly pacified and under Federated Suns, Capellan March, control. On Genoa the Illician Lancers encounter Little Richard’s Panzer Brigade and an unidentified Battalion of troops, the mercenary unit and its supporting Battalion both refuse to surrender the world declaring that it is Capellan territory. The four regiments immediately take the capital then over the course of the rest of the month destroy the Little Richard’s Panzer and the Battalion which are later identified as Bloody Hands Terrorists by Federated Suns DMI analysts. Like Arboris Genoa is accepted into and added to the Federated Suns Capellan March. The MRBC of Outreach take both Merc units off the books declaring them dead. During these battles both the LCG and the Illician Lancers field two Stealth OmniMechs each, although it is believed that these OmniMechs are still under AFFS control and undergoing combat trials, none are lost in combat and all prove the design’s worth.
Lyran Alliance/Clan Jade Falcon Border
Inner Sphere
10th-14th May 3064
Clan Jade Falcon strike over their Occupation Zone borders at the Lyran Alliance striking several worlds inside the so-called Arc-Royal Defence Zone as a diversionary tactic to keep the Kell Hounds and Wolf (in-Exile) Clan busy and off balance their real target become apparent when on the 12th the Jade Falcons launch and all out invasion of the Melissa Theatre taking control of Barcelona, Newton Square, Mogyorod and Kikuyu in several quick trials. The Sixth Donegal Guards RCT are quickly beaten on Kikuyu forced into retreat to Melissa the theatre capital while the Fourteenth Donegal Guards RCT are routed when their commander Leutnant-General Adam Steiner, Katherine Steiner-Davion’s cousin, is felled in combat to the Jade Falcon assault forces.
Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion orders her troops to abandon Port Moseby to the Draconis Combine and push back the Jade Falcon attackers, at the same time she asks for SLDF aid and opens a dialogue with Duke Morgan Kell for his aid.
Star League Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion deploys the 151st Eridani Light Horse currently on Port Moseby to the border and calls on the Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment from Dieron as well, with no Lyran or SLDF troops to oppose them the DCMS secure Port Moseby.
On the 14th Clan Wolf (in-Exile) go on the offensive with Khan Phelan Kell leading the charge in a whirlwind attack his Clan’s Alpha Galaxy liberate the worlds Antares, Graus and Blair Athol from the Jade Falcons. With the Exiled wolves only one jump from their Occupation Zone capital and more Lyran troops, and the SLDF, entering the fray the Jade Falcons stop their incursion for now securing the worlds they have taken.
Clan Occupation Zone
Ghost Bear Territory
18th May 3064
Free of combat against the Draconis Combine the Ghost Bear Dominion turn their whole offensive might against the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone retaking the three worlds lost to the Clan and all three worlds the Hell’s Horses occupied in the Inner Sphere annihilating the Hell’s Horses Gamma Galaxy in one short week. The three Hell’s Horses WarShips assigned to the Inner Sphere are driven off all with heavy damage. The Ghost Bears begin reprisal strikes against the Wolves striking Hermagor, Dawn, Nox and Balsta all worlds along the Wolf/Ghost Bear borders. The Wolves hold Nox but loose all other three worlds to the determined Ghost Bear warriors.
Just when the Wolves believe they have weathered the storm the Bears strike once more with Star Colonel Ragnar, former Elected-Prince of the Free Rasalhague Republic, present commander of the First Rasalhague Bears leads an attack against and quickly secures Rasalhague the former capital of the Free Rasalhague Republic. With four worlds lost and eyes on the Jade Falcon OZ Khan Vlad Ward negotiates a cease-fire with the Ghost Bear Dominion, the Bears are more than happy with seven new worlds for their Dominion.
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Devil’s Advocates Mercenary Command
Caph, Chaos March
12th June 3064
The Devil’s Advocates a company sized Mercenary unit had been sent to Caph in late 3059 under contract with the Lyran Alliance. Their job there was to defend what interests the Lyran nation had in the world, very little they just wanted the world, and resist any other interested parties efforts to take the world. With the Word of Blake Militia units on planet and rumoured Capellan sponsored Mercenaries the Devil’s Advocates disappeared into Caph’s wastelands, devastated during the Succession Wars by the various states trying to secure the strategically spaced word near Terra at the centre of the Inner Sphere. The Devil’s Advocates continued to resist the Word of Blake and other forces on the planet until summer 3064 when their contract was up with the Lyran Alliance, because they lacked JumpShips or DropShips of their own they sent out a message to their employers and asked for immediate pick-up.
The Lyran Alliance under siege by the Draconis Combine and the Jade Falcons ignored the Devil’s Advocates plea for assistance leaving the company to fend for themselves. Devil’s Commander Captain Charlene Cypher signed a temporary contract with the Caph Resistance continuing to use Caph’s uninhabited wastelands to hide from and strike the other numerically superior forces on planet.
Draconis March Militia Base
Royal, Raman PDZ, Draconis March
Federated Suns
23rd June 3064
Following their attack on Harrow’s Sun in the Draconis Combine Graves’ Dancers Pirate Company arrives back in the Federated Suns dropping on the lightly defended insignificant border world of Royal. The Dancers prove just how badly defended the world is by first destroying the company of Mechs and Battalion of defending Infantry then raiding their base for munitions and spare parts for the BattleMechs. Again following the battle survivors report that once again Jean Graves Mech takes not one hit during the battle and they easily avoid the traps set up by local militia causing heavy damage in return. The Department of Military Intelligence begins to look at the Graves’ Dancers Case more closely. Interested mainly in Jean Graves phenomenal abilities. However since the unit disappears as soon as they have their munitions and spare parts studying them becomes more difficult.
Briefing Room, Steiner Royal Palace
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Alliance
4th July 3064
Rarely was Archon Katrina Steiner able to find complete privacy on Tharkad, there was so much worry that there would be an assassination attempt on the Lyran leader, today however she had been able to get two hours alone in one of the briefing rooms. After Lyran Intelligence Personnel had scanned the room ensuring there were no bugs in the room she had been left alone in the room. There was a click behind the Archon as Kommandant Konstantin Wolff-Ploetig entered the room via a secret passage way in the palace that she had shown him. Konstantin was the commander of an Ultra Secret unit within the LAAF that reported directly to her. Although technically a ceremonial guard unit they were in-fact her personnel enforcer unit in the LAAF and carried out dirty missions that the regular LAAF or LIC could have no involvement in, just in-case it became public. If they were ever caught then Katrina would deny they even existed. “Kommandant, good to see you again, how are your people.â€
“Good, you have a mission for us, Archon?†He asked straight to the point, this was one of the reason Katrina trusted him and his people as much as she did they asked little questions and did the job.
“Yes, there is a problem in the Skye Province that needs sorted. I need the nation concentrating on the Jade Falcons not bickering with the Draconis Combine.†She said handing over a pair of documents “these three people need eliminated.â€
“Any specific way?†He asked looking at the picture, he recognised all three people instantly, the fact they were Lyran nationals made no difference to him.
“The Draconis Combine has to be responsible.†She said smiling, if she could blame the Draconis Combine then for such an act then they would be shamed into stopping their attacks on the Lyran Alliance, she might even get a couple of worlds back.
“Collateral Damage limit?â€
“None. If you need to destroy a whole building full of bystanders to crush them with it I don’t care, people are cheap a nation is not!†She said, she was shouting before she even realised it. “Although I would prefer if there was as little damage done to defence bases and systems just make sure the Combine are responsible.†She said more calmly gaining complete control back.
“Of course Archon†Konstantin said his voice still completely calm and controlled. “I will reform the Unit and we will leave immediately. We will need to make a raid into the Combine to gain supplies first to make things completely authentic†he said quietly Katrina did not bat an eye-lid at that thought. “If that is all.â€
“At present, once you have completed the mission I will have something else for you.†Katrina said turning back to her stack of paperwork Konstantin nodded then slipped back into the secret passageway without another word.
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Phillip Drummond City
Tortuga Prime, Nova Cat’s Den
14th July 3064
With wedding plans progressing between Canin and Yvonne Khan Santin West had asked Yvonne if she wanted any of her family at the ceremony, when she had said she would messengers had been sent out and arrived at New Avalon inviting them to New Barcella. The Federated Suns WarShip carrying them had been allowed into the New Port Royal system while the DropShip was carried by a Nova Cat WarShip the last jump to New Barcella. Now escorted by an entire binary of Nova Cat aerospace fighters the Excalibur-class DropShip had been allowed to land at the sprawling spaceport, the sword-and-sunburst proudly displayed on the side of the vessel’s ovoid hull. The class chosen had not been lost on the Nova Cats, a class of vessel named after a sword from the nation of the sword.
A luxury hover limousine carrying the Federated Suns party departed the vessel and was escorted by a full star of OmniMechs through the city looking out the windows Isis Steiner, sitting beside Peter and across from Victor and Danai, was first to say anything since they had landed “hard to believe we are in the heart of Clan held territory, this reminds me of a hundred worlds†she said looking back to Peter who nodded silently.
“Are you alright?†Victor whispered leaning closet to Dania as she shifted uncomfortably in her seat, she was heavily pregnant and Victor had asked her not to come but she had insisted she would be fine and she would not miss Yvonne’s wedding.
“Yes, just tired, it has been a long trip.†She whispered back kissing him gently as the limo pulled up beside the Clan Hall.
“Wow, talk about making a statement.†Peter said quietly. At the front of the hall an entire star of twenty-five Elementals stood their armour painted from total black-to-white. As the doors opened five more Elementals stepped clear of the building completing an unbroken line wall-to-wall.
“Maybe they don’t want us inside.†Isis suggested
“I let them in the Royal Palace, they could show us the same respect.†Victor said slightly annoyed about the idea of not being allowed inside. Their fears were unnecessary however as the line of Elementals broke into two lines of fifteen flanking the main entrance way to Hall with perfect precision. A single Nova Cat Clanswomen walked down path to the limo, she was dressed in an all white jumpsuit with her blonde hair tied up.
“Welcome to New Barcella and the Nova Cat’s Den. If you would like to follow me, I will lead you to the Khan.†She said as Victor and Peter cleared the vehicle.
“Danai and Isis will continue onto our accommodations if that is alright, it has been a long trip and my wife is tired.†Victor said the Nova Cat Clanswoman raised a small communications device to her lips and informed the escort commander of the plan and the lead Mech began to move out. She then headed off towards the Clan Hall Victor and Peter said their goodbyes then closed the limo door and the vehicle moved out following the Mechs.
“Do you feel as exposed as me?†Peter asked as he and Victor walked between the two rows of Elementals towards the hall.
“Not really†Victor replied calmly as they reached the steps in front of the hall “from my dealings with the Clans, and the Nova Cats especially, I’ve come to realise they are a deeply honourable people ninety percent of the time. And if they want us dead they will give us a weapon of equal or greater strength than their own before trying anything.†Ascending the stairs they entered the hall and both almost immediately noticed the two statues of OmniMechs standing inside the Hall “reminds me of Tharkad†Peter said looking at his brother, Victor nodded the Steiner influence in the buildings interior was unmistakable perhaps somewhere in the Nova Cat‘s clan history there was some Steiner blood somewhere. The clanswomen guiding them led the two men between the two statues under a massive Nova Cat banner and into the back office area where they saw several techs working on computer screens and the Khan and saKhan overseeing them.
Although he noticed their entrance Santin West chose to ignore the two visitors from the Federated Suns, for now he had too much other things to consider. An hour before a Buccaneer-class DropShip carrying two thousand tons of equipment and twenty-eight Nova Cat crew had been forced to make an emergency landing in the ocean following a mechanical error. DropShips were not designed to land on oceans and the DropShip had immediately began to sink despite the crew sealing all hatches before they evacuated. Now the DropShip was underwater and the crew were inside six small rafts the Nova Cats lacking any major naval vessels were using VTOLs and small hydrofoils they had captured from periphery worlds. “Have the First Guards VTOL Star push through and find them then the Hydrofoils can go directly to them.†Santin said his voice showed complete calm.
“There is a storm brewing out there, Khan West, the hydrofoils and Hovercraft are finding it hard going.†From behind Victor looked at the monitors and realised what the Nova Cats were doing, on any Inner Sphere world facing a crisis like this with limited resources there would be an element of panic but the Nova Cats were barely flinching. Victor was unsure if that was because they didn’t care if the DropShip crew made it out of this or not or if it was because of superior training.
“Inform them that they are the DropShip crews only hope of survival.†Santin said coldly, there was no encouragement or despair in his voice, what happened would happen.
“What we need is some Undine Armour†One of the techs was saying to Canin “if we had them and calm seas the Elementals could take down metal wires, attached to a hovering DropShip, attach them on strategic points around the downed vessel and haul it up.â€
“Put it up on the main holo-tank†Canin said turning to face Victor and Peter, Canin nodded once to both of them then pushed past activating the holo-tank which showed the Buccaneer lying in almost a thousand metres of water. “Tech, where are our Undine armour?â€
“Upsilon Galaxy, saKhan, and we do not have the blueprints to manufacture more here in the Den.†The tech answered after a moments checking records Upsilon Galaxy was one of their Homeworlds Garrison Galaxies and it would take months to get the suits to the Den.
“Do you have regular breathing gear?†Peter asked quietly Canin gave him a cold look, as if to warn him to keep out of this, then nodded.
“Aff, but it is not rated deeper than eight hundred metres.â€
“We have Remote Operated Vehicles, ROVs, in the Federated Suns. They can go that deep.†Victor suggested.
“We have such vehicles as well, just not here.†Khan West said quietly “welcome to New Barcella First Prince Davion, intresting circumstances we find ourselves in.†He said turning nodding once to Victor then looking at the holo-tank.
“In more ways than one Khan West. I am curious you do not have any major naval vessels, considering the planet’s vast ocean.â€
“The Clans have little in the way of blue-water navies. The Undine Battle Armour is the newest and probably the most advanced blue-ocean weapon we have and that only caters for one person.†Khan West said gravely, sometimes he wondered if living on New Barcella was worth the resources it cost the Nova Cats. The Borealis Colony, being built on the sea, was costing the Clan every month and was months from completion. “We also have specifications for Star League Defence Force submersible vehicles but none have been built.â€
“We have such vessels in the Federated Suns, they could get you started.†Victor suggested, he was interested in increasing the trade with the Nova Cats if possible strengthening the alliance they had begun to form.
“That would interest me, what would you want for such a trade?â€
“We would be able to provide you with two Rapier-class Patrol Destroyers and a Persecutor-class Hunter-Killer Submarine immediately possibly more in the future if it was needed.†The Khan nodded “in exchange I was wondering if the Nova Cats could assist the Federated Suns with something?â€
“I am listeningâ€
“Khan West, rescue teams report they have recovered the rafts all DropShip crew accounted for. They are going to land on Borealis until the storm has passed.†One of the techs said.
“Good news.†West said “this way†he said turning back to the two Federated Suns people leading them back into the main room, Canin followed them quietly. “You we saying you would need help with something?â€
“In the centuries since the fall of the Star League†Victor began both Santin and Canin were slightly shocked at where he had started mentioning the Star League to the Clans normally brought to mind the notions of the ilClan, the number one Clan, and the stavag new Star League that the other Clans wished to destroy. “There has been an organisation in the Inner Sphere that has controlled nearly all the Interstellar communications.â€
“ComStar†West said, ComStar had approached the Clans with open arms only to stab them in the back when they discovered the Clans target, Terra, the ComGuards defeated the invading clans on the world of Tukayyid ending the invasion ending any chance of there being an ilClan in most current warrior‘s lifetimes.
“Yes, that is right ComStar.†Victor said “recently a second organisation has emerged, the Word of Blake. Khan West, I trust neither organisation fully but am dependant on them for communication with my nations planets.â€
“We cannot base Nova Cats on every Federated Suns planet, or even in every region. We do not have that many technicians ourselves. And the other Clans or Inner Sphere states would notice such a deployment.â€
“Of course not, Khan West†Victor said nearly immediately he did not want Nova Cats permanently in the Federated Suns, that would be bad for the Federated Suns and for the Nova Cats if and when the rest of the Inner Sphere found out about it. “If the Nova Cats could give us the specifications for a Star League-era HPG, how to operate it and build replacement parts then that would forward our plans by several decades.â€
“That is all you want?†West said slightly shocked, he had not realised the Inner Sphere nations were that badly off when it came to HPG technology.
“Perhaps the half dozen members of the Nova Cat technician and science castes to get us really started. We could take a couple to NAIS to see how far the Federated Suns are along with its own research and a couple to Savonburg.†Peter suggested, NAIS was well known for its attempts to break the HPG codes held by ComStar part of the reason Hanse Davion had poured so much money into the university was to break open the HPG, making the Federated Suns independent of ComStar and in the process improving the Federated Suns way of life. Savonburg was a complete unknown however officially it was the Federated Suns only periphery university giving the people of the Outback (Federated Suns controlled Periphery) high class education. Unofficially Savonburg was also home to half a dozen research labs one dedicated to breaking open HPGs and other secrets.
“I could authorize this.†West said to Victor’s surprise “I can give you the information now then in a couple of months send the Guiding Vision, one of our Merchant Carrack-class vessels into the Federated Suns. On board I will place fifty scientists and fifty technicians all of whom have HPG experience, once in the Federated Suns their deployment will be up to you. While the Merchant vessel will go on a tour of the Federated Suns, you may place a security force aboard to endure it does not go anywhere that my compromise your nation.†West said, allowing Davion intelligence staff aboard was a risky move but the Federated Suns was little threat to the Nova Cats if they attacked or tried to steal the vessel the entire Touman could mobilize against them, something Santin knew the Federated Suns was not prepared for and even feared.
“What will this merchant vessel do?â€
“What merchants do Prince Davion, trade. It will start with a full cargo of clan technology and two DropShips also with Clan tech†one of those vessels would be full of fighters and Elementals West though but no need to tell them that “the vessel will travel into your Draconis March into major systems. Travel into the centre of the Inner Sphere around the Chaos March?†West said unsure of the correct name “then into the Capellan March and finally the Crucis March. On each stop they will be required to trade for at least one item unique to that region.â€
“Why would you risk losing one of your merchant vessels in such a journey? If a Clan vessel was discovered travelling through the Inner Sphere and near Terra then some of the other nations of the Inner Sphere may take offence and try and destroy or capture it and the crew.â€
“One of the reasons I suggested you have some of your people aboard, they will know danger spots where we should avoid, and they should know good places for us to set up trade opportunities.†He said, at the same time he was seriously thinking of brining the Diamond Sharks in on this as well, they were far more merchant based than the Nova Cats.
“Done†Victor said reaching out with his hand Santin’s massive hand completely swallowed it in a strong grip “now were we not here for a wedding?â€
“Aff, Yvonne should be finished by now, I think she said she was going to the guest quarters to see you afterwards.â€
“Afterwards? Finished? What do you have our sister doing?†Peter asked looking at Canin with accusing eyes, he did not want his sister doing menial tasks for the Nova Cats.
“Although she proved herself a warrior in our Touman she decided she did not want to be a warrior and asked to be reassigned.†West said Victor and Peter looked back between the Khan and saKhan.
“Okay so what is she doing?†Victor asked slowly.
“She is head administrator of New Barcella, she handles all civilian matters on this world allowing us to deal with Clan problems. According to her staff they have never seen anyone who works so hard or so well under pressure. In the last six months she has gotten several projects back on schedule by better organisation than the person who was doing it previously.†Canin said
“What happened to the guy who was doing it before?†Peter asked.
“That would be me.†Khan West said lowering his head “your sister is quite an asset to my Clan.†He said bowing his head even more briefly “the saKhan will take you to see her while I select techs, merchants and scientists for the exchange.†Khan West said turning around heading into the rear office. Once he was gone Peter was the first to speak.
“It takes a big man to admit that someone else is better than they are at something.†Peter said Canin was already leading Victor out another exit this one to the rear of the building. Standing there were three OmniMechs. “Now that is what I call transport, we should have taken our own Mechs Victor.†Peter said looking at the Mechs a pair of Nova Cats and a Dragon Cat, Canin’s Mech.
“You would allow us to take live Mechs through your capital?†Victor asked looking at Canin who was already heading over towards a changing area.
“The damage you could do is negligible Prince Davion, throughout the city there are Nova Cat units either on routine patrol or on special assignments ensuring there are no problems with our visitors, some of our citizens are former Tortuga civilians and harbour grudges against your people. Also both your Mechs weapons arrays are disabled at present, I have the activation codes if you need to defend yourselves, however you will have to trust me for the most part.†Neither Victor or Peter were completely comfortable with that concept but had little choice, apparently Yvonne had belief in these people.
-
Ways of Seeing National Park
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
20th July 3064
Because none of the Clansmen were religious and Yvonne was not a practicing catholic, and hadn’t been for years, Canin and Yvonne had chosen a simple ceremony that they would run themselves. A small clearing about four kilometres from Alpha Galaxy command had been chosen standing there was Canin, Yvonne, Victor, Peter, Isis and Danai although Danai hadn’t been well since she arrived she had insisted on coming. Finally Khan Santin West had also decided to make an appearance as had the commanders of the Watch Cluster now returned from the Federated Suns. Around a wide perimeter Elementals of the Watch Cluster stood Guard just in case something someone tried something stupid, a possibility due to the controversy of what they were doing.
“Yvonne, I love you and I love our Clan. Will you accept that I will always love both with all my heart? And accept to be my wife?†Canin asked speaking loud enough for all to hear.
“I accept.†Yvonne answered.
“Then I will accept you as my wife.†Canin completed his half of their ceremony.
“Canin, I love you but I will always have ties that are not of our Clan. Will you accept that I will always love you with all my heart and that I will always have links to the past? And will you accept to be my husband?†Yvonne asked also speaking so all could hear.
“I accept†Canin answered.
“Then I will accept you as my husband.†Yvonne said.
“In front of these witnesses we are married.†Canin said then they embraced just then there was a growl from the crowd and a nova cat calmly walked through the crowd. The Nova Cats were in awe of the animal’s confidence and grace as it passed through the crowd while the Federated Suns party stepped away. Yvonne smiled kneeling down in front of it as the animal approached.
“Yvonne…†Victor said under his breath, the last thing he wanted was his sister to be eaten by big cat on her wedding to a member of the cat clan.
“It is okay, Victor, this is an old friend.†She said glancing at her older brother then back at the nova cat “I was wondering if I would see you again, thank you, you saved my life.†The cat walked around her sniffed once then licked her face before turning growling at the gathering then running through the crowd disappearing into the Ways of Seeing Park. Yvonne stood up to see Canin looking at her gob smacked, looking around she saw all the Nova Cats including Santin West were standing mouths open “what? It is tradition for old friends to visit during a wedding†she said smiling she leaned forward kissing Canin.
“Oh dear!†Danai shouted loud enough to force Canin and Yvonne to break off “look at my dress†she said looking to Victor then Yvonne “sorry Yvonne.â€
“Are you hurt? Did the cat harm you?†Victor asked as Danai sat down on her chair.
“No Victor, she’d doing the womanly thing that women in her condition do†Isis said calmly taking Danai’s hand seeing Victor’s confusion/shock “you’re going to be a daddy, very soon.â€
“What here?†Victor said “in a park? We are not even in the Federated Suns†he said sounding slightly panicked as he looked to Santin West who had stepped closer a smoking cigar in his mouth.
“Just as well I took a VTOL, this way.†He said leading the way as Peter and Victor picked up Danai and hurried after Santin West followed by Isis. “Congratulations saKhan! Or whatever the hell it is they say!†Santin shouted.
“Had to happen today didn’t it?†Yvonne said looking to Canin, they were both routed in the same spot they had married on.
“You want to go with them?†Canin asked, by now almost the entire gathering had broken up leaving them alone.
“Well since I am keeping in contact with my family before joining the Clan technically this will be my first niece or nephew. Never know maybe they will come to stay on the summer holidays.†She said giggling leaning in to kiss him, Canin returned her kiss as he thought about it.
“Never know maybe, just maybe we will have a playmate for him or her by the time they are old enough to come see us.†Canin whispered breaking the kiss briefly.
“You want children?†Yvonne asked, neither Canin nor herself had ever spoken about having children of their own. Yvonne knew that freeborn children in the Clans were not treated as well as the genetically engineered trueborns like Canin, and that many trueborns didn’t want children.
“If it is possible, I do not see why not†Canin said as the VTOL took off heading for New Barcella “many trueborns are sterile so I don’t know if it will be possible, but if it is why not?â€
“But they would be freeborn, I though the trueborns didn‘t like freebirths.â€
“They generally do not, but I am not your normal trueborn. And the Nova Cats are no longer your normal Clan. Ever since we came here the Clan has been changing your acceptance and this wedding are just the first steps. If you want kids than I am more than willing to be the father and allow them to become warriors or whatever they want when they are old enough.â€
“I guess I do want kids, I just never thought of it before. I’ve been so busy.†She said her mind racing she really hadn’t though about children of her own but now that she was married she guessed that would be the next step. “Guess we better make our own way back to the city.†She said looking around a small 4x4 vehicle was parked at the corner of the clearing.
“Guess so.†Canin said taking her hand “then again, we don’t have to go now…†he said smiling at her. Alone in the wilderness they remained that night, on the 4x4 they found a tent and bed rolls, the bedrolls came in handy but the tent was soon discarded as the newly weds spent their first night together under the New Barcella stars.
By the time they returned to New Barcella the next morning they discovered that Danai had given birth to a healthy boy which she and Victor had named Burton. Plans for their own family would be their secret for now, Yvonne and Canin had each other. Victor, Danai, Isis, Peter and baby Burton all left New Barcella a few days heading back to the Federated Suns.
Spaceport
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
31st July 3064
Eleven days after his wedding to Yvonne Canin was ordered to take his Watch Cluster to Clan Space to secure a new resource for the Nova Cats. Standing looking at the newly commissioned Vanguard-class DropShip Canin could not help but wonder looking at the vessel. The Vanguard was based on the hull of a Conquistador-class DropShip the Federated Suns had given the Watch Cluster before they left. It could carry the entire Watch Cluster including air support and a ProtoMech Star. At over sixteen thousand tons the vessel was huge and a big target but now the entire Cluster could be transported by a single DropShip instead of using ten DropShips.
Khan Santin West walked over to him and looked over the vessel “the Federated Suns said they wanted the vessel to go directly to your unit saKhan Rosse, you must have impressed someone. Now you have to impress our whole Clan by gaining our prize in the Homeworlds.â€
“Aff, we will not fail Khan West.â€
“Of course, I have one last thing for you to do. Protection duty for a member of our lower castes who will evaluate our resources on Barcella, in Clan Space and work out what can be of use here in the Den.†Santin said, the last thing Canin wanted was civilians on-board but he nodded “protect her please, a valuable civilian resource for our Clan†Sanin said stepping aside to reveal Yvonne standing there a bag thrown over her shoulder. Canin had left Yvonne in the city centre hours before and not expected to see her for over a year but now the Khan was sending her with him “enjoy yourselves.†Santin said walking off. An hour later the Vanguard took off and rendezvoused with the Spirit Sight, a Fredasa-class Corvette, in high orbit beginning their eight month journey to the Clan Homeworlds.
-
General Harry Sanders’ Office
First Battle Armour Corps Command
New Canton, Capellan Confederation
4th August 3064
Sitting in his New Canton office General Harry Sanders looked at the most recent reports on the situation on New Canton the Capellan Confederation’s control had changed little on New Canton especially with the SLDF units on planet keeping order and protecting the rulers of the world’s cities. Today was a special day for Harry he’d recalled the Third Royal Battle Armour Battalion to New Canton and called Lt. Colonel Wu Tsen Lo to his office.
The Lieutenant Colonel had been Harry’s executive officer when they were mercenaries in the Stalwart Support and they both knew each other very well and considered each other as friends. With their joining the SLDF and with the formation of separate Battalions of Battle Armour he had taken command on one of the units and become the SLDF’s trouble-shooters on New Canton and in the surrounding worlds of the succession states and the Chaos March. Now however Harry had a new job for his former XO. Wu entered the room dressed in full SLDF uniform and snapped to attention seeing Harry sitting there. “Reporting as ordered General, congratulations on your recent promotion.â€
“Thank you, Lt Colonel, It’s strange gaining a promotion while doing little to deserve it however the Commanding-General said he needed a General to command a Corps so here I am. And here you are.†He said pushing a box across the table Wu bent down and opened the small box, inside he found two small blue circles with white stars in the centre. Colonel insignia. “Congratulations!â€
“What’s this for?â€
“I’m giving you command of the Second Battle Armour Corps.â€
“Second… when did it form?â€
“It hasn’t formed yet, Colonel, we are sending a set up group to Fletcher to begin setting up a primary base.â€
“Fletcher? The Lawless world? We do like picking endangered places don’t we?†He said looking at Harry. Fletcher had no HPG and no-one ruled the world, it sat on the Federated Suns border with the Chaos March and was frequented by pirates and down-on-their-luck mercenary troops.
“When the Commanding-General hired me I told him I was dedicated to protecting people in trouble in the Chaos March. New Canton was just the start, now the original plan was for our Battalions to be deployed in the Chaos March as peacekeepers but little wars have gotten in the way. I am hoping that your Corps will be able to specialise in peacekeeping and anti-terrorist operations in the Chaos March, but we never know. Do you accept?â€
“Aye, I’ll take my Battalion there in support of the engineering crews and hopefully bring Fletcher back into the civilized word.†He said smiling, the very idea of dropping onto Fletcher and facing all the troubles that lonely world faced would be a challenge before they even got to form the Corps.
“I know you’ll get the job done Colonel, good luck to you and your men.â€
The Cave, George Hasek’s Office
New Saso, New Syrtis Command
Capellan March, Federated Suns
4th August 3064
Deep under the frozen tundra of New Syrtis lay the Cave Headquarters of the Federated Suns Capellan March, from there George Hasek could wield power over the whole Capellan March giving orders to dozens of units based in the March. Now the DMI Liaison assigned to his command was delivering a report that the Star League’s Battle Armour Corps was about to begin forming a Second Corps and that it would be on the world of Fletcher. If the Star League controlled the world it would stall Federated Suns manoeuvres in the Chaos March worlds and make it difficult for them to operate in retaking the rest of the worlds. The Star League already controlled the Sirian Concordance worlds near the Free Worlds League and New Canton in the Capellan Confederation, George did not want them controlling a Federated Suns world as well. The First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry were still on Ziliang one jump from Fletcher guarding the venerable Ziliang Salient ‘above’ the Capellan Confederations borders blocking House Liao’s charge into the Chaos March. George would deploy a Battalion from the First Armoured to secure the world then back them up by sending a regiment of the Twelfth Vegan Rangers Mercenary Brigade currently under Federated Suns contract. When the SLDF arrived the world would welcome them with open arms to a Federated Suns world and the Capellan March would have rights over the world.
Secret Fleet Anchorage, ComStar Controlled
Location: Somewhere in Lyran Alliance
8th August 3064
Almost five months after the launch of the first Intrepid-class vessel the ComGuards launch the second vessel of the class, the Reliant. The Reliant’s launch is secret just like the Saratoga’s was and the vessel heads for the Luyten 68-28 Anchorage to join the First ComGuard Naval Fleet based there. With two out of the three vessels undergoing trials the ComGuards are even closer to being ready for a strike against the Word of Blake. The ComGuards also officially bring the 473rd Division online bringing the Seventh Army back up to four Divisions of strength, this green unit begins practicing hard hitting moves against units using ComStar’s organisation structure despite most of ComStar’s assets being deployed against the Clans.
-
Press Deck, Gravity Deck Beta
Challenge Systems Shipyard, Panpour
Crucis March, Federated Suns
16th August 3064
Panpour was an out of the way world in the Federated Suns Crucis March, in fact it bordered on the Periphery boundaries, the only reason it gained any attention was because there was a JumpShip Shipyard there producing valuable Star Lord-class JumpShips. The Federated Suns New Avalon Press had been surprised when they had been invited to Panpour by the Federated Suns Royal Court, however they were guaranteed two events that would change the face of the AFFS and the Federated Suns. For six hours they had been cooped up in a Gravity Deck Press Hall looking out at the spectacular sight of three under construction JumpShips, everyone of them hoped they were not here to see the launch of a JumpShip but none of these vessels looked ready for service anyway.
First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Peter Steiner-Davion entered, there had been a slight media frenzy with Peter’s return but that was old news. The fact that Victor had made him the Prince’s Champion was likewise popular but old news. Victor took the small podium looking well rested and happy, rarely did Victor approach the press with a smile but today he was smiling quite broadly, he was also without dress uniform wearing only a day-to-day uniform even though it was a nationwide broadcast. Maybe the news would be of Victor’s tardiness in front of the cameras!
“Ladies and Gentlemen, allow me to be the first to thank you all for coming today to and interesting and very joyous event. We are once again at one the Federated Suns shipyards which even as we speak building JumpShips that will serve our nation.†Victor said looking out at the under construction JumpShips there was some light polite applause from everyone in the room and Victor turned back to the gathered people. “This is not why we are here however. I would like to introduce Deniss Sona the CEO of Challenge Systems and the woman who was the brainchild of the current project.†There was more polite applause as the woman in her early forties took the stand and Victor stepped to one side standing beside Peter.
“Ladies and Gentlemen if I could direct you to projection tank.†She said as a holo-tank raised out of the floor in front of her, it was impossible to miss it anyway. The holo-tank activated and showed open space then a small vessel moved onto the display. The holo-tank zoomed into the vessel and then brought up its schematics “allow me to present the Congress Block II-class Frigate the centre of our current development project and the reason you are here today. The Congress II features a completely upgraded weapons suite, featuring the latest technology such as Kraken Teleoperated Capital Missiles and Rotary Autocannons. It can carry twice as many DropShips and twice as many fighters as the original Congress and carries a vastly improved sensor suite ensuring it can stay in contact with any battle.â€
“What’s she called?†Charlie Gunn of the Kathil Post asked.
“It’s called the Jason Hasek, named for one of the Founding fathers of New Avalon.â€
“Is it the only one or are there more?†Frank Adams of Admiralty’s choice asked.
“That’s classified information however we are hoping that the AFFS will choose to fully support the project now it has been made public.†Deniss said as Duchess Isis Steiner entered the room a couple of the more gossip orientated tabloids took pictures of the young duchess as she walked up to Peter Steiner-Davion and gave him a kiss on the cheek before whispering something in Victor’s ear. Maria Clarkson looked at her Tri-Vid camera operator and thought ‘at least we have something interesting to put in tomorrow’s paper, their paper the Avalon Gazette would put this story in about page fifty in a corner column that no-one would read or be interested in. Victor then retook the podium and now wore a full born smile on his face, or maybe we‘ll get something more Maria thought quietly.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, that is part one of our news for today. I am sure that all of you will be glad to thank Deniss Sona and her people for bringing another WarShip into the AFFS Navy ready to defend our borders.†This time there was more rousing applause from the military papers and magazines, ‘sure they will be happy the have a full magazine worth of stuff from this’ Deniss though shaking her head. “Now for part two.†Victor said smiling even more as Danai Centrella-Davion entered carrying something, the First Prince really was happy, something the Federated Suns did not see very often, he had a beautiful smile something the Tri-Vids would enjoy pasting over every paper tomorrow. “Ladies and Gentlemen allow me to introduce Danai Centrella-Davion, my wife, and Burton Davion my son, and heir to the Federated Suns throne!†Victor said bringing Danai and Burton up onto the podium his arm protectively around them both parents were all smiles but baby Burton was fast asleep, as if nothing had happened.
Now he had all their attention and a rousing applause from the entire room, everyone had known about Danai’s pregnancy and everyone had talked about it but no-one had expected this. Now everyone could go home happy and with full magazine, hell full book deals, Maria was jotting down notes like crazy as her camera man took as many Tri-Vid stills and film as he could. She tried to take everything from the dreary start to the day to the launch of the Jason Hasek to the revelation of Federated Suns recent history. Victor Steiner-Davion had given the Federated Suns exactly what was needed, an heir and clear line of succession. Today he, Danai and baby Burton were all heroes to the Federated Suns.
Colonel Wu Tsen Lo’s Office
Second Battle Armour Corps Command
Fletcher, Federated Suns
18th August 3064
Wu Tsen Lo slouched in his office chair on the newly secured world of Fletcher. His command had taken over one of the old governmental administration office blocks after they had landed, it wouldn’t be a permanent move but would do for now. All the excitement had gone from this assignment. When he had arrived with the Third Royal Battle Armour Battalion he had expected trouble straight away and maybe even a fully fledged fight. Instead he had found elements of the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry already in charge of the capital and a regiment of the Twelfth Vegan Rangers Mercenaries burning in system behind him, the Twelfth Vegan were a known Federated Suns mercenary brigade. The Federated Suns would control this world and he would have to put up with their rules and officials.
Already the First Armoured Cavalry had presented him with the Broadstreet Bullies commanders, the Bullies were a known rogue mercenary Battalion that he had expected to face on New Canton and take in himself but the First Armoured had beaten them into a pulp and now gave them to him allowing the SLDF to claim the bounties held on their heads. The First Armoured commander General Rudolf Chapman had said it was a peace offering because they had done the job the SLDF wanted to do. Wu Tsen Lo had accepted the prisoners and would collect the bounties but it wasn’t the point. He sent a message to General Sanders informing him of the changes on Fletcher then decided there was nothing else he could do but to get on with it and begun forming his Corps.
-
HPG Compound
299th ComGuard Division Headquarters
Caph, Chaos March
8th September 3064
The entire 299th ComGuard Division of ComStar was arrayed around the HPG compound on Caph they were preparing to move out to their DropShips and evacuate Caph. Two days before the Caph Provisional Government had asked the Word of Blake to assume control over Caph’s interstellar communications. The ComGuard personnel had gotten exactly one hundred metres before an entire Division of Word of Blake troops had arrived and surrounded them Precentor Peter Fedt ordered his ComGuards to retreat back to the compound until they could assess the Word of Blake’s intentions. Sitting in the cockpit of his fifty ton Raijin looking at the white BattleMechs of the Word of Blake Fedt felt nervous, the Word of Blake Mech, vehicles and battle armour all stood weapons powered targeting systems active. There were no equipment trucks or anything, this force was not going to take over garrison duties. His communication gear bleeped nearly constantly Fedt keyed it in and Minister of Culture Joseph Coz appeared on the auxiliary monitor, Fedt hated the man he was always manipulating things changing things for his benefit. “Minister, how can I be of service?â€
“Precentor Fedt, I want your people off my planet why are you still here?â€
“Minister Coz, Duke Gustafuson gave me seventy-two hours to clear Caph and now my forces have been confronted by forces of the Word of Blake.â€
“Yes, that is correct, however Duke Gustafuson passed away last night. I have been made Duke pro-tem and if you are not off Caph within the hour then I have been given assurances by the Word of Blake that you will not leave Caph alive.â€
“Minister…â€
“Duke†Coz corrected
“Whatever†Fedt said “the only way my forces can be off Caph in an hour is if we abandon our supply vehicles and make for the Spaceport now abandoning over eighteen million C-Bills worth of equipment and our personnel belongings. You cannot expect us to abandon such supplies.â€
“You will abandon these supplies or I will order Precentor Yoshizumi to kill you.†Fedt looked out at the Word of Blake BattleMechs seeing a kneeling Exterminator BattleMech on each vehicle and Mech, this was the Word of Blake First Division the most elite of the whole Word of Blake Militia his troops were veteran quality and would put up a valiant fight but they had HPG techs and equipment to defend, they would be easy pickings.
“You mean he can try to kill us. Minister, if you take this action against us then ComStar will never let it stand.â€
“They will never know, Precentor, all they will hear will be that you resisted the Word of Blake occupation of your base and attacked them.†The First Minister said smiling, moments later the entire Word of Blake line opened fire beginning a sixteen hour battle in which the Word of Blake unit destroyed the entire ComGuard Division and took the ComStar HPG techs and support staff as prisoners of war.
Within an hour of the end of the battle First Minister Coz sent ComStar command word that the 299th Division had attacked the Word of Blake Division taking over from them and their support staff had been killed in the cross-fire. Coz also claimed that heavy damage had been done to the south side of Caph’s capital and that he would be claiming damages. The HPG techs and support staff were taken off planet and shipped to the Word of Blake ROM Headquarters on Mars for indoctrination in the Word of Blake‘s beliefs, the few who did not turn were thrown in prison two kilometres under the Martian surface. ComStar log an official protest with Caph’s government and with the SLDF but nothing real happens for now.
Devil’s Advocates Mercenary Command
Caph, Chaos March
12th September 3064
The Devil’s Advocates Mercenary Command are able to get another message off Caph by using what little contacts they have on Caph. Instead of contacting the Lyran Alliance again they choose to contact the MRBC direct on Outreach using a merchant JumpShip man and what little capital they have left. They claim to have proof that the Word of Blake attack on the ComGuard Division was unprovoked and that the Word of Blake are attempting to gain control of the whole planet.
Jump Station Avellar’s Hope
Alpheratz, Zenith Point
Outworlds Alliance
14th September 3064
Ninety percent of the time the Jump Station that served the Outworlds Alliance capitol system was a boring place where traders traded what little they had with passing businessmen and Alliance officials. Shop Owner Robert ‘Bob’ Gibbs was a Alpheratz national who had always dreamed of going to the stars and making his fortune. He had tried at the Outworlds Alliance Military Corps (AMC) twice and been rejected twice, they said his hand-eye coordination was nowhere near high enough for him to be in the military. Instead he had bought a shop on the JumpShip Recharge Station and tried to make a living for five long years. Little happened there and Bob was ready to give up when in 3060 Cassius Lawson made contact with him and offered Bob another way to make money. Cassius served ComStar, or so he said, and ComStar was a well trusted agency in the Outworlds Alliance so Bob had been interested. The job was simple Bob kept an eye on who was entering the system and reported anything unusual back to his contact, in return he got three hundred C-Bills a month tax free even if he reported nothing. This arrangement technically made Bob an agent of an outside organisation but he didn’t care it allowed him to stay in space and it hurt no-one.
The morning of the 14th however something interesting happened the AMC security guards arrived in force and locked down the station beginning intense questioning of everyone. After about sixteen hours they released the lock-down but kept a high presence. Near midnight the reason for the sudden increase of scrutiny became apparent as a new type of JumpShip entered the system, everyone was talking about the vessel then it started to move in-system something JumpShips couldn’t normally do. Bob knew exactly what it was when he had been a child his parents had bought him dozens of space books many spoke of leviathans of the deep that travelled into systems and could fight in space, they were known as WarShips. Bob had never seen a WarShip before but as the vessel moved into the system he knew that was what he had seen a WarShip, a shiver ran through his body the AMC would never be able to afford one of these titans or have the strength to field one, who owned it? And what were they doing here?
The AMC security folk didn’t seem bothered by the vessel’s appearance and joined it heading in system and soon left the station. An hour after they left Bob transmitted his information to his contact and by the end of the week the organisation he believed was ComStar knew of the vessel’s appearance in the system. In fact Bob was working for the Word of Blake since the two organisations worked the same way the man from the Periphery never knew he was betraying his nation to a foe that could potentially harm them.
Across the Alliance and Alpheratz Inner Sphere Intelligence Agents soon got hold of information similar to what Bob had reported confirming the information and letting the entire Inner Sphere know there was an unknown WarShip in the Outworlds Alliance.
As far as the government of the Alliance was concerned this was a great day, the beginning of a new friendship and alliance with Clan Snow Raven, the WarShip Clan. By the end of the week the Alliance Government had agreed to supply the Snow Ravens from several worlds in exchange the Snow Ravens would help them hunt for pirate forces and help the Outworlds Alliance build its first OmniFighter the Corax.
Devil’s Advocates Mercenary Command
Caph, Chaos March
16th September 3064
The Devil’s Advocates do not have to wait long for a reply from the MRBC, Wolf’s Dragoons deploy the WarShip Beowulf to secure the system’s Jump Point and a pair of Wolf’s Dragoons JumpShips enter via a pirate point landing elements of Wolf’s Dragoons Alpha Regiment on the planet and help the Devil’s Advocates evacuate.
The Word of Blake claim the Devil’s Advocates are criminals and pirates and that they have been found guilty by the Caph Government of crimes against humanity. When Wolf’s Dragoons commander Colonel Maeve Wolf refuses to release the Devil’s Advocates the Word of Blake force attacks the mercenary force on planet. The Wolf’s Dragoons fight a rearguard mission while the Devil’s Advocates load aboard Dragoons DropShip’s and escape the Dragoons then follow suit and evacuate the planet. Two days later the Word of Blake broadcast images of the white units of the First Division destroying the Wolf’s Dragoons Alpha Regiment claiming they defeated the Dragoons when the mercenaries tried to invade the planet expanding their empire centred around Outreach. The Devil’s Advocates travel to Outreach intent on charging the Lyran Alliance for breach of contract and to try and figure out a way to pay back the debts owed to the Wolf’s Dragoons. The Dragoons meanwhile begin to see the Word of Blake for what they truly are and Supreme Commander Jamie Wolf begins to take steps to end the threat posed by the Word of Blake to the free worlds of the Chaos March, because the Dragoons do not trust ComStar almost as much as they hate the Word of Blake the Dragoons take actions totally independent of ComStar.
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The Outback (Periphery)
Federated Suns, Crucis March
28th September 3064
The Nova Cat Guiding Vision, a Carrack Merchant-class Transport, entered the Federated Suns full of supplies with the vessel is the Pathfinder, another Carrack-Merchant, the Nova Cats say the Pathfinder is carrying security personnel and more supplies the Nova Cat Merchants will want to trade with the Federated Suns. The truth is more shocking however the Pathfinder, used to be a Nova Cat vessel, now it is a Diamond Shark vessel. The Diamond Sharks have entered into a secret pact with the Nova Cats and will keep the dealings with the Federated Suns secret like the Nova Cats are, in turn the Diamond Sharks are able to sample further Inner Sphere markets increasing the possible markets they have available to them. The two Clans keep the information secret from the Federated Suns in fear that they would not accept two Clans being in their territory.
Small World
Federated Suns, Capellan March
5th October 3064
Following months of secret negotiations with the Federated Suns Capellan March the Duchy of Small, two worlds on the Chaos March/Federated Suns border, agree to return to Federated Suns rulership. Current leaders of the worlds the Hasiendorfs are as promised made Federated Suns nobility, although they are looked down upon by other nobles because of their former status as citizens of the Chaos March. Field Marshal George Hasek moves Alpha Regiment of the Twelfth Vega Mercenary Brigade to Small World and Ingress to ensure there are no troubles during the transfer of power. A slight skirmish against an unknown mercenary force is reported on Ingress but the force slips away and is not seen from after the first engagement.
Royal Compound
Tian-Tan, St Ives
St Ives Compact
10th October 3064
On the first leg of what would be a whirlwind tour of the Inner Sphere Precentor Martial, of ComStar, Anastasius Focht had travelled to St Ives the capitol system of the St Ives Compact. Arriving at the Royal Compound he had been accepted in the Royal Palace by the Allard-Liao family and been taken to an auxiliary meeting room in the Palace as he waited for Duchess Candice Allard-Liao, Prime Minister of the St Ives Compact to arrive.
The Duchess of St Ives arrived in the room about thirty minutes later with her son Duke Kai Allard-Liao standing beside her although in her late-seventies but every time Anastasius met Candice Allard-Liao he was in a slight awe, Candice had aged very gracefully and held herself with a great amount of dignity. “Precentor-Martial I am pleased to see you again, and glad we do not have Confederation forces breathing down our necks this time.†She said greeting him, the last time he had been here was to negotiate the end of the St Ives/Capellan Confederation Conflict, every day he had been here the fighting had continued until the last where the Confederation surprisingly left. According to reports a St Ives hired mercenary unit had executed an attack against the Confederation and threatened to do the same to Sian, although the Compact had publicly denied any knowledge of such a force or threat Focht guessed they know something about what had saved their fate. Anastasius had not been made aware of the attack or the force involved and had never been shown exactly what forces had been used.
“We are, however, concerned by the forces you have in system Precentor, four WarShips, it looks awfully like an invasion force.†Kai said cautiously remaining behind his mother who didn’t look amused at her son’s tone.
“No need to worry Duke Kai, ComStar have no invasion plans for the immediate future†Anastasius said smiling, ‘wait a couple of years and you’ll see what an invasion looks like’ he though silently. “The First Circuit believes I need a protection ring around me, with the Word of Blake becoming ever more adventurous, so I have three WarShips nearly permanently attached to my side. That is why we have such a force in system.â€
“But there are four vessels in your party. Are you saying that the fourth vessel is not ComStar?†Kai asked becoming worried.
“I am, however, you do not need to worry about the fourth vessel. It is a St Ives Compact vessel, the Geneva.†Anastasius said smiling broadly seeing their confusion “three years ago ComStar presented the Star League Defence Force with the Unity City, an Artemis-class Diplomatic Escort Vessel, now keeping with our promise we are presenting the St Ives Compact and the Free Rasalhague Republic with such vessels as well.â€
“We cannot accept†Candice said much to Kai’s horror “we have no facilities for such a vessel nor would I want a vessel of war in our realm. We are dedicated to our own defence not conquest.â€
“I understand that fully, Duchess, however payment for the vessel can be arranged for as long as you wish. ComStar is willing to offer full maintenance for the vessel and a crew temporarily until you are able to train up sufficient crew of your own. Also the Artemis-class is not designed for conquest, in a military capacity its best use would be courier or scout, it has little capital weapons that could threaten a major WarShip. We present this vessel to allow you to travel the Inner Sphere in perfect safety and to allow you to escape this world should anyone come looking to harm you.†Anastasius said, if they took this vessel to war it would be suicide when faced with another WarShip. If the St Ives Compact did not want the vessel then he would offer it to the Federated Suns, they were nearby and more than likely to accept a WarShip as a gift.
“Mother, we should accept, it would take our military closer to the other Inner Sphere nations and it would secure your travel arrangements for the foreseeable future. We will have to work out maintenance and repairs with ComStar but I believe we need this vessel.†Kai said moving forward standing alongside his mother.
“Very well†she said to Kai then turning to Anastasius “we accept the Geneva into the St Ives Compact Military, ComStar has our thanks. Now would you like to travel with us to the Star League Conference?†She asked, if they left soon they would reach Luthien in plenty of time for the next Whitting Conference and the next election of the First Lord.
“Yes, I have the Terra with me to take for my journey back and most of the way we will have my other escort vessels as well, we should be plenty safe. And I will be able to show you around your new nations vessel.†Anastasius Focht said an that was it, no ceremony or messing around, just a simple hand-over the details could be worked out later.
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Parliament Buildings
Orestes, Free Rasalhague Republic
15th October 3064
Five days later Precentor Tharkad (Lyran Alliance) Gavin Dow arrived in the Free Rasalhague Republic capitol system and gave the Free Rasalhague people their first WarShip the Hilton Head. Elected-Prince Regent Christian Mansdotter accepted the vessel from ComStar and praised the organisation for its continued dedication to the defence of the Free Rasalhague Republic and his people. He then proceeded to hold Gavin Dow on Orestes for a further five days as they hammered out the full contract for maintenance and training of a crew for the vessel and then he presented the Precentor Tharkad to the public of Orestes, who were normally slightly hostile to ComStar personnel, today they gave him and the vessel he was presenting them with a rousing cheer.
Aten Royal Residence
New Glasgow, Skye
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
2nd November 3064
With the Star League Conference about to start on Luthien the citizens of Skye roused up by the Free Skye Movement stage a Pro-Independence March in the capital city of New Glasgow. This march although completely peaceful in nature is massive and it takes the whole attention of the Thirty-sixth Lyran Guards RCT which had been redeployed to the planet from Hesperus II following the Skye Jaegers move to Ko in the Lyon’s Thumb worlds.
With most of the Thirty-sixth deployed securing core manufacturing, government and military instillations a twenty ton military APC drives straight into the gates of the Aten family’s Royal Residence. Although the APC fails to breach the gates it does bring a lot of attention to the front gates allowing a group of four soldiers dressed in Kage Battle Armour to cross the gates and enter the residence.
Once over the wall the Kage armoured troopers were methodical entering each room of the palace and opening fire with Support Machine Gun fire. The Guards who had been looking at the crashed APC were all instantly killed when the APC detonated itself destroying the vehicle, the gate house and thirty guards in a massive fireball. The assassins found Duchess Margaret Aten in her bedroom killing the Skye leader with a burst of ten machine gun rounds. Duchess Ilse Aten, Margaret’s eldest daughter, was killed in the corridor running to her mother with a snapped neck. Unable to find the third target the assassin team left the residence without further incident, the only reason they were ever discovered was the residence security cameras and sensors.
Upon hearing the news Skye began a national state of mourning and were thankful for the survival of Harmione Aten, the youngest of the Aten family, attending the opening of an art exhibit at the other side of the capital. The people of Skye turn on the Thirty-sixth Lyran Guards blaming them for the attack on the palace, before the camera footage is made public, the Thirty-sixth initiate a martial law order on the planet of Skye until the public have calmed down.
Third Whitting Conference, Star League Council Chambers
Imperial City, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
7th November 3064
With the attack on Skye filtering through the Lyran Delegation refuse to attend the opening day of the Third Whitting Conference as Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion continued to receive information on the attack and suspected attackers. The Lyran Authorities outside her inner circle suspect Draconis Combine involvement, none not know that she is the one responsible for the attack.
Instead of the normal opening speeches of the Conference Colonel Neil Campbell, commander of the Royal Black Watch Regiment, announces the Royal Black Watch has begun expanding beyond Regimental strength. He announces that during the fighting against Clan Ghost Bear, with First Lord Hohiro Kurita, he felt that his regiment was lacking in certain areas. So the Royal Black Watch will add a Battle Armour Battalion, similar to other units of the Star League, and an Aerospace Wing. These changes are to help the Royal Black Watch cover all threats to the future First Lords. He also announces that the Royal Black Watch will now begin actively defending the First Lord’s family as well as the First Lord, following the assassination of Omiko Kurita.
With these changes and the ever increasing Strength of the Star League Defence Force Chancellor Sun Tzu-Liao brings up the question of funding and Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion confirms that the Star League will expect the Succession Lords to make a minimal increase of funding for the League to be able to complete these increases in strength. Sun Tzu-Liao suggests that instead of further draining the current members of the Star League dry of capital that they increase the size of the Star League and nominates the Magistracy of Canopus for Star League Membership. The Free Worlds League leader, Thomas Marik, seconds this call and adds the Word of Blake for Star League Membership and the Free Rasalhague Republic points out that ComStar has been defending the Inner Sphere since the start of the Star League nominating them. Because the Lyran leader is missing the official vote for new members is postponed for three days.
Imperial Palace Gardens
Kurita Family Grave, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
9th November 3064
Leaving the guest quarters of the Royal Palace Victor Steiner-Davion had taken his Bushido Katana and Wakazashi, ceremonial weapons of the Draconis Combine with him he rarely wore these nowadays. Gifted to him on Outreach all those years ago when Theodore Kurita, father of present leader Hohiro, named Victor and Kai Allard-Liao Samurai following their actions against the Clans to protect all the Inner Sphere. Since that day he had worn the blades only twice, the leader of the Federated Suns could not wear such pro-Draconis Combine weapons publicly at home and expect to be leader the next day.
Today however was special he was in the home of the bushido and the samurai and he was paying respect to a fallen member of the Kurita family. At first the guards standing over the Kurita family’s resting place would not allow him to enter, especially since they knew who exactly who he was, Victor thought it almost laughable that once upon a time he'd been welcome in this house. Hohiro Kurita soon arrived and found Victor sitting in one of the courtyards adjacent to the graveyard area in silence minus any guards completely trusting in the Kurita Household. Sitting opposite Victor Hohiro looked over at the First Prince, Victor had been tactful and not worn AFFS uniform or anything that promoted his realm instead a simple black business suit, now he sat his bushido, the katana and wakazashi, held in his hand in front of him, his eyes only seeing the blades. “Why did you come here Victor?â€
“Someone I loved has died, I wanted to pay my respects to the fallen.†Victor said his eyes never leaving the blades.
“She was of Kurita blood, you could have never had a future with her, you knew that you could not be with her which is why you married someone else.†Hohiro said not even mentioning Danai’s name, it didn’t seem appropriate, especially considering the topic, although Hohiro had dissuaded the relationship between Victor and Omi he had been very surprised and slightly angry Victor had been able to move on so quickly following the end of the Clan War and the couples break-up.
“I know there was no future between myself and your sister, Omi…†His voice drifted off as he looked up at Hohiro, although the Draconis Combine Coordinator wore a blank stare he could see the hurt in his eyes. “…we both knew there was no future. But we loved each other, we would have been life long friends even if our nations came to blows. And even though I thank the universe for every day I have with Danai, I curse everyday that Omiko is no longer with us. May I pay my respects to your sister?†Victor asked raising lowering the swords to his side.
“You may†Hohiro said quietly “the guards will not stop you this time.†He said as Victor began to move “I see you still carry the bushido.†He said observing Victor for a moment.
“Your father honoured Kai and myself on Outreach, I would not dishonour his grave by appearing without the honour he bestowed on me.†Victor said moving past Hohiro quietly entering the graveyard. Victor stood in front of Omiko’s grave for several minutes his head lowered muttering quietly, Hohiro watching from the gates was unable to hear what he said but Victor then moved to Hohiro‘s father‘s grave and gave the grave deep samurai style bow before standing up straight and leaving the grave. Hohiro watched the First Prince leave and realised that this was not the same Victor Steiner-Davion he had fought with during the Clan War, the First Prince of the Federated Suns seemed far older now than he had ever seemed during those battles. Hohiro wondered silently if he would show such respect to Victor’s family graves if he ever saw them before today he probably would not have however Victor had shown respect Hohiro would return this someday.
Third Whitting Conference, Star League Council Chambers
Imperial City, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
10th November 3064
The Succession Lords began the vote for increasing the size of the Star League. First the Free Worlds League voted the Word of Blake for status which was quickly seconded by the Capellan Confederation securing the Word of Blake a position in three years if all checks passed inspection.
Next the Capellans nominated the Magistracy of Canopus which the Free Worlds League seconded returning the Capellan support with the Word of Blake.
The Free Rasalhague Republic then voted ComStar into a position as well intent on balancing out the Word of Blake seat the Draconis Combine, another long term ally of the ComGuards, supported the Free Rasalhague Republic’s nomination.
The three new organisations/organisations would have three years to prove that they deserved to be accepted as a full-term member of the Star League. During those three years Star League Intelligence Command (SLIC) would check into all three ensuring that they were not acting against the best interest of the Star League or the Inner Sphere as a whole.
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Third Whitting Conference, Star League Council Chambers
Imperial City, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
11th November 3064
Nominations began early in the day with Victor Steiner-Davion nominating Duchess Candice Allard-Liao, or the St Ives Compact, for position as First Lord surprising everyone in the room. The St Ives Compact was the second smallest of the Succession States and under constant threat from the Capellan Confederation, having the Star League’s backing would defend them against all foes their neighbours could field against them. For a start there was no other nominations and it appeared that Candice would win an uncontested march to First Lordship. Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion however had other ideas nominating the Free Rasalhague Republic leader Elected-Prince Regent Christian Mansdotter for the position. Katrina eloquently pointed out that the Republic had been nearly swallowed by the Clans and that since the Truce of Tukayyid was quickly approaching its end and soon the Free Rasalhague Republic would face the full threat of Clan Wolf and Jade Falcon as the race for Terra renewed among the Crusader Clans. With no-more nominations it would be a straight battle between the St Ives Compact and the Free Rasalhague Republic.
Because he nominated them Victor Steiner-Davion put the Federated Suns vote behind the St Ives Compact.
Not wanting his aunt to gain power before he had a chance at the crown Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao placed the Capellan vote behind the Free Rasalhague Republic.
Always wanting the Capellans to be watching their back Captain-General Thomas Marik put his support and the Free Worlds League support behind the St Ives Compact brining the St Ives Compact into the lead at two-to-one.
A St Ives victory was not to be however as both Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion and Coordinator Hohiro Kurita placed their support behind the Free Rasalhague Republic brining the vote to 3-2 in favour of the Republic and making Elected-Prince Regent Christian Mansdotter the third First Lord of the Second Star League.
Third Whitting Conference, Star League Council Chambers
Imperial City, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
12th November 3064
With a new First Lord elected as leader of the Star League the Third Star League Conference was almost over however there were a couple of things that still needed to be addressed. First was information concerning the attack on Skye just before the beginning of the Conference and the assassinations of Margaret and Ilse Aten. Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion stood at her table and addressed the other Succession Lords “Lords of the Inner Sphere Lyran Intelligence has uncovered evidence that the assassins that attacked the noble house on Skye, inside the Lyran realm were either members of, or sponsored by, House Kurita.†There were several shocked expressions around the table, however, Coordinator Hohiro Kurita made no move of shock or surprise. Allowing Katrina to continue. “The LIC have analysed the Internal Camera footage of the Aten Household and the sensor logs of four Mechs from the Thirty-fourth Lyran Guards who were en-route to deal with the attack.†She said holding up a still picture of four black Kage Battle Armour suits walking down the inside of a building gunning down everyone in their path. “As the Draconis Combine leader was First Lord when this attack was conducted. I call for immediate action to be taken against House Kurita and the DCMS.†Christian Mansdotter raised his hands slightly and Katrina shut up hoping for action from the Rasalhague leader, his tiny nation needed all the help it could get, siding with her would strengthen his position as First Lord and show the Star League had some power.
“We will wait for Coordinator Kurita to answer these claims before making any judgment.†Christian Mansdotter said he realised that Katrina was trying to use the Star League to harm the Combine and although he was tempted to agree with her he wanted to try and flex his muscles First Lord slightly by giving the DCMS leader a say in the proceedings. “Coordinator Kurita, if you would like to answer these claims please do.â€
“Thank you First Lord. First I would like to point out that the Draconis Combine has sold several dozen Kage suits over the years, these could be in use with one of these customers†Hohiro knew that was unlikely almost all the mercenaries who used Kage Armour still worked for the Draconis Combine. “And I would ask how the Lyran leader can live with her people’s actions and then support them at this council?†Hohiro said Victor Steiner-Davion and Morgan Hasek-Davion both chuckled slightly seeing Katrina’s face when Hohiro spoke. Hohiro did not, however, allow the Lyran Archon to speak “one of her nobles strikes down an innocent of another noble family, from another realm at that, and she ignores it. Then when someone strikes back she attacks.†Hohiro picked up a document “in this document there are receipts and explicit instructions to kill my sister. These are signed and dated†Katrina quelled a small smile the assassin she had sent to the Draconis Combine to kill Omiko Kurita had no such documents “they are signed by Margaret Aten herself and dated three weeks before the assassination was conducted here on Luthien. ISF have also been able to track the assassins trip into the Draconis Combine via the Free Rasalhague Republic using a commercial transport under ComStar’s colours. As the leader of a State are responsible for the actions of their military and citizens, their especially nobility, I would ask if the Star League Council will also be charging the Lyran Alliance and ComStar for hiring and transporting the assassin?†Katrina stared at Hohiro angrily she could not claim she knew the assassin contract documents and transport documents were fabricated because the other leaders would know she knew more about it than she claimed, her brother may even use it to claim control of the Lyran Alliance back, that she could not afford.
“Archon Steiner?†Christian Mansdotter repeated Katrina realised he had said her name twice already as she was lost in thought she closed her eyes composing herself then looked to the First Lord.
“Yes, First Lord?â€
“Do you wish to continue actions to call for a vote in brining charges against the Draconis Combine?†he left out ‘and ComStar and the Lyran Alliance’ because he knew that Hohiro would immediately call for such a vote which would throw out the entire argument.
“No, First Lord, the Lyran Alliance withdraws their charge against the Draconis Combine and offered its sincere apologies to House Kurita.†She said sitting down angrily.
“If that is all?†Mansdotter asked, there were no more questions “then this Star League Council is ended. I hope to see you all alive and well at the Fourth Whitting Conference in three years on Orestes inside the Free Rasalhague Republic.†He said, as was the new tradition of the Star League the conference would move around the Inner Sphere until Terra was returned to Star League control, an unlikely possibility with the Word of Blake in firm control of the Sol System.
SLS Covenant (Covenant-class Heavy Cruiser)
Luthien System, Nadir Point
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
16th November 3064
As soon Morgan Hasek-Davion arrived back on his WarShip sitting at the Nadir point of the Luthien System he began drafting orders for the Twenty-first Rim Worlds Regimental Brigade and the Avatars of Death Brigade, both were part of the newly formed Blue Star Irregulars Division (Third Royal Division). These orders moved both units to the Lyran Alliance/Draconis Combine border. He also drafted orders for the Eridani Light Horse Regiments based on Dieron to prepare to move in case of major trouble.
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Jade Falcon Occupation Zone/Lyran Alliance Border
Arc-Royal Defence Cordon
Pandora Theatre, Lyran Alliance
19th November 3064
To everyone’s surprise Clan Jade Falcon renew their incursions into the Lyran Alliance a bare six months after the end of their last incursion. This time it seems they are only after reclaiming the lost territory from the first Incursion. Jade Falcon units attack the three words the forces of Duke Morgan Kell and Khan Phelan Kell liberated. They land the Jade Falcon Guards on Graus who face off against the Sixteenth Wolf Guards Cluster of Clan Wolf (in-Exile). In a titanic battle in which neither Clan force uses Clan duelling rules the Sixteenth are effectively destroyed by the Jade Falcon Guards its survivors taken as bondsmen to Clan Jade Falcon.
On Blair Atoll the Jade Falcons encounter the Twenty-third Arcturan Guards RCT a veteran unit only recently relocated there by Morgan Kell. After a decade and a half of combat against the former-Federated Commonwealth RCTs the Jade Falcons are well aware of the destructive potential of an RCT, especially a combat blooded one such as the Twenty-third Arcturan Guards. The Jade Falcon Khan leads the attack taking her own Turkina Keshik, the First Falcon Hussars Cluster and the Ninth Talon Cluster to the world with three WarShips in support.
Khan Marthe Pryde initiated a Batchall as it the tradition of the Clans and the traditional minded Jade Falcons in particular. “This is Khan Marthe Pryde, commander of the Turkina Keshik, vanquisher of Wolves and Steel Vipers. We are here to reclaim the territory that was taken from us. Who occupies this world and its population?†Not expecting a reply she ordered the WarShips sitting just outside orbit to destroy anything that tried to run from the planet.
“This is Major General Nadine Killson commander of the Twenty-third Arcturan Guards Regimental Combat Team of the Lyran Alliance Armed Forces. We DEFEND this world and its Lyran population and will do so with our full force. Any attempt to land on this world will be resisted and safcon will not be recognised. If you want to face us in combat the RCT is based at the southern polar region, far from any civilian area to minimise collateral damage and any unneeded waste.†The Lyran ground commander replied a few minutes later just as the DropShips were entering the atmosphere. Already two aerospace fighter wings containing thirty six fighters were engaged with the Jade Falcon fighters and DropShips. On the sensor screen Marthe could see three Leopard CV-class Aerospace Fighter DropShips and two Claymore-class Assault DropShips closing on the battle quickly. This would a tough battle however she would answer the General’s reply.
“Major General Killson, you honour us with your choice of location, you will make a good bondswoman when I have defeated your forces. The Turkina Keshik, with one Elite Trinary, the First Falcon Hussars Cluster and the Ninth Talon Cluster, both containing three Veteran Trinaries each, will soon be with you.â€
“Well Khan Pryde, I have eight regiments of hurt waiting for them.†Killson replied “and I won’t be your bondswoman, if anything you’ll be mine. Killson out.†Nadine Killson replied almost immediately, Marthe Pryde was beginning to like this woman for a freebirth she certainly had spirit. She keyed in a communication to all the Jade Falcons under her direct command today “Jade Falcons, they do not wish to fight us honourably. We will have to fight to a landing zone and expect them to be waiting as we land. Do your Clan proud and watch as the Lyrans scream with terror as they hear the Jade Falcon shrike!†She said shutting down the system and without another word head to the Mechbay and her OmniMech, a seventy ton Summoner (Inner Sphere Designation: Thor).
Nearly thirty minutes later the surviving Jade Falcons were landing on the frozen tundra of Blair Atoll. They had lost on Union-C-class DropShip carrying a full Trinary of the Ninth Talon and over half of their fighters fighting off the Lyran Aerospace defenders but the Jade Falcons had emerged victorious and landed on Blair Atoll.
Sixteen hours later the battle ended with Marthe Pryde’s limping Summoner was one of the few OmniMechs still moving under its own power. Both Jade Falcon Clusters had been devastated with close to seventy percent material loss and eighty percent warrior cost. The Jade Falcons took the remains of the Twenty-third Arcturan including a badly injured Major General Nadine Killson as Bondsmen and women making up for some of their losses and the Inner Sphere tech salvaged from battle would serve the Jade Falcons greatly in their second-line forces. The saddest thing about this battle was just as the battle was ending several DropShips tried to make a run for it and ran straight into the Jade Falcon WarShip blockade. The WarShips mercilessly gunned down the DropShips, which were all civilian and included two Monarch-class Passenger Liners with families on-board, and marked them down as casualties of war.
In the Antares system the Jade Falcons experienced their worse losses. They expected to find the Nineteenth Striker Regiment of the Eridani Light Horse in the system so they dispatched the First and Third Swoop Clusters of Alpha Galaxy with the Jade Solahma Cluster there to provide support if it was required. Also included in the force was the WarShip Lightning Strike, a Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette, although not the most imposing vessel ever the Corvette‘s guns could easily swat aside the incoming Transport DropShips.
Instead of only the Nineteenth Striker they encountered the Nineteenth Striker Regiment, the 244th Division of ComStar’s Seventh Army and the Eridani Light Horse Congress-class Frigate SLS Shining Claw. The Lightning Strike quickly found itself hopelessly outgunned by the heavier and better armed Shining Claw and was quickly dispatched by the Star League WarShip. The three Jade Falcon Clusters charged towards the planet hoping to outrun the Star League WarShip and hoping that it would not use naval weapons fire on their ground forces.
On the ground the Jade Falcon commanders immediately called the Jade Solahma Cluster into action as well and immediately got to work on the two defending units concentrating on the lesser experienced unit the 244th they soon reduced it to a mere skeleton form of what it was. This fight did however expose their flanks allowing the Nineteenth Striker to make a extremely destructive assault against the First Swoop Cluster crushing the Jade Falcon Cluster. The counter attack from the Third Swoop and the Jade Solahma Cluster cut down two full Battalions of Eridani Light Horse before the Nineteenth and the remaining ComGuards could retreat. With reports coming in that the Jade Falcons had launched a full assault into the captured territories Eridani Light Horse commander Colonel Paul Calvin called for an evacuation and the DropShips that had been secure on the planets moon landed quickly and picked up the remains of the Nineteenth Striker and the 244th Division, which had likewise decided enough was enough. The two units rendezvoused with the Shining Claw and their JumpShips and made a hasty retreat heading back to Dieron surrendering Antares back to the Jade Falcons. Commanding-General Hasek-Davion and ComGuard Precentor-Martial Focht decided to merge the 244th Division with the Nineteenth Striker brining the Eridani Light Horse Regiment back-up to just over half strength. The new Nineteenth Striker vowed to return to Antares and take its revenge on the Jade Falcons but the Commanding-General vetoed such plans until the regiment was back up to full strength.
Jade Falcon/Clan Wolf Territory
Clan Occupation Zones
27th November 3064
Although they had recovered all worlds lost to the Lyrans there was every indication that the Jade Falcons were preparing for further assaults against the Lyran Alliance when Clan Wolf decided to launch its own series of Trials of Possession for Jade Falcon Worlds seizing Steelton, Persistence, Winfield, Quarell (the second closest Jade Falcon World to Terra) and Jabuka (the closest Jade Falcon Worlds to Terra). On Jabuka the Wolves destroy the Fourth Falcon Dragoons Cluster and the Gyrfalcon Solahma Cluster with little loss to themselves proving that Clan Wolf are back. Marthe Pryde orders her own Clan to secure the three retaken worlds then rebuild lost units moving Clusters into the weakened Delta Galaxy. The Jade Falcons begin planning another offensive this time against Clan Wolf.
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Watch Cluster DropShip Vanguard
High Orbit, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
4th December 3064
Leaving their WarShip at the Nadir point the Nova Cat DropShip Vanguard carrying the Watch Cluster, the saKhan and Yvonne had burned into the Strana Mechty system. Three times the vessel had been challenged by other Clans wanting to know what the vessel was? And, possibly more importantly, what its capabilities were? When they discovered that the vessel was of Nova Cat origin there was veiled threats against the Nova Cat Clan but no challenges, they would respect the Nova Cats superior Naval experience and attack them on the ground.
Entering orbit Canin and Yvonne entered the DropShips forward observation lounge as the vessel began a slow roll before entering the planets atmosphere. Artificial Gravity was marginal at best under these conditions so both wore gravity slippers over their shoes or boots, the slippers had magnets on them giving better grip against the decking during zero-g moments.
On the trip here Canin and Yvonne had acted like a married couple and been all over each other every minute they were not on duty. The Watch Cluster already highly experienced with Inner Sphere citizens had taken in Yvonne like any other outsider and had treated their marriage with more interest that anger or aggression. They both knew however that Strana Mechty would not be so forgiving and that Yvonne would be a simple freeborn administrator once they landed. The Watch Cluster personnel and DropShip crew had also been sworn to secrecy as well, hopefully the secret could be kept long enough for the Nova Cats to complete their short mission and get off the Clan Capitol World. “There it is, Strana Mechty, capital of the Clans and birthplace of the Clans.†Canin said pointing at the world a largely landlocked world there was only a small portion of the planet dedicated to water, which were held in several small landlocked seas, the word was the complete opposite of the Nova Cats new capital New Barcella.
“It does not look much.†Yvonne said flatly Canin looked at her not angry but curious.
“All the way here you were asking me questions of Strana Mechty and reading data on the world and all you can say is ’it does not look much’ are you trying to wind me up?†He asked a small smile creeping onto his face.
“Oh look the city!†Yvonne said almost like a child seeing Katayusha City for the first time as the city appear over the horizon as the Vanguard manoeuvred.
Katayusha City was the city the Nova Cats had based the design of Philip Drummond City on at its centre was a five pointed star, Old Katayusha was an area that had grown around the city was almost as big. In all the City was over around sixty Kilometres in diameter and could rival any city in the Inner Sphere for size and presence. At the cities centre was the Clan’s Primary Genetic Repository, where samples of the DNA of every Clan Warrior who had ever lived were kept. Canin had told her that the building itself covered a vault under the city buried so deep that it could survive a direct Nuclear strike from the most powerful weapon ever created by man.
In orbit directly above the city there were WarShip and DropShip servicing and construction yards and all over the place there were military DropShips and fighters intermingled with merchant and scientific DropShips a scene the same as seen on hundreds of different worlds. “Now I’m beginning to feel impressed.†Yvonne said quietly Canin looked over at her and shook his head noticing a small smile creep onto her lips she was messing with him again. Ever since they had married Yvonne had been constantly testing his Clan beliefs, Canin found it annoying at times but also very entertaining as well.
“Just a flying visit today. We land you go off to the civilian administration sector with the orders and I head for the Hall of the Khans to see the Wolf leader.â€
“How do you think they will take the challenge?†She asked, civilians of the lower caste did not normally ask such things but Canin was beginning to get used to her constant questions of the unknown.
“Anger and aggression. The Wolves will not like us trying to take something out of their genetic pool, especially not something they gained in combat but they will accept it eventually and then we will have a fight on our hands. Knowing normal Wolf response to such a thing I will need the full Cluster and maybe some elements of the other Nova Cats in the Homeworlds.†He said quietly, hopefully it would not escalate but he was willing to use all three Galaxies in the Homeworlds if he had to. “Then we will have a trial, a location and a date.â€
“Then once you have won?â€
“If we win, we head to Barcella and ensure the Oathmaster can handle claiming all Wolf Genetic Material we are entitled to then we head for Arc-Royal for phase two.â€
“What if I need some things transferred from here to the Den?†She asked not phased in the slightest by his mentioning of a Lyran world, she knew they Nova Cats were not invading Arc-Royal only claiming the Wolf (in-Exile) Genetic Material as well ensuring that the Nova Cats had full control over the Bloodname.
“Make a list package it to the Oathmaster and the commanders on Barcella then they will take it next time they transfer back to the Den.†He said as the Vanguard entered the atmosphere, the mission had begun.
Hall of the Khans
Clan Wolf Hall, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
4th December 3064
An hour later the DropShip was secured at one of Strana Mechty’s many Spaceports and Canin had travelled to the Hall of the Khans first checking in on the Nova Cat Hall then heading to the Wolf Hall, he had not been in the Hall of the Khans before now and he felt it was an honour just to be in the Nova Cat Hall and now he was heading for another Clan’s Hall. On the way to the Wolf Hall he was intercepted by the Nova Cat’s new Oathmaster, Zane Carns. “Oathmaster, I am curious to know how you knew where to find me and what your purpose here is?†Canin said stopping in one of the reception halls. As far as he knew the Oathmaster was on Barcella tending to the Nova Cats only holdings remaining in the Homeworlds.
“The Wolf will destroy us if we anger them.†Zane said looking at Canin, there was no-way Zane could have known of the Nova Cat challenge to the Wolves only a select few Nova Cats knew and there had been no communication to Barcella about the challenge.
“How?†Canin asked covering both ‘how do you know I am challenging the Wolves?’ and ‘how will they destroy us?’
“I had a vision. It showed a nova cat attacking a wolf and savagely defeating it in combat, the wolf pack then chased the nova cat and destroyed not only the nova cat but its home and its young.â€
“My mission is to challenge the Wolves, Oathmaster, I will not fail in this mission.â€
“Of course not†Zane said dismissing failure with a flick of the wrist “however defeating the Wolves does not mean doing so militarily. We could see what the Wolves want in exchange for our prize and deal with them with honour.â€
“What could the Wolves want from us? We have little in the way of Homeworlds territory and we certainly will not let them know of the Den.†Canin said his voice but a whisper.
“I know this but perhaps the Wolves will be interested in something more material. Nevertheless I suggest that we leave a fight to the last resort.†Zane warned Canin could hear the threat in his voice but knew the Oathmaster was just looking out for the Clan’s best interest. He nodded then continued down the corridor into the office of the Wolf Khans.
The Wolf offices were very minimalist, perhaps even more so than most Canin had seen. The room included a large wooden desk, four comfortable chairs, one placed behind the desk, and a Wolf Clan crest on the wall behind. SaKhan Marialle Radick sat behind the desk, from what Canin knew of the Wolf Clan’s second-in-command she was like Canin before his dealings with the Watch and the people of the Inner Sphere an ardent Crusader. According to rumour she was always looking for a way to get the Wolves to the forefront of Clan politics and military might. Marialle did not even look up at Canin as he stepped into the room “what do you want?†She asked, she sounded bored and not interested.
“Some respect for a start.†Canin said his voice devoid of emotion but firm Marialle’s head shot up as her entire body launched out of the chair to her feet. Marialle was quite an attractive woman with long wavy blond hair allowed to grow, she had an athletic body and full breasts which she emphasised by wearing tight clothing. Around her neck she had two golden chains and around her left fore arm was a coiled leather and fur band that overlapped several times as it circled the length of her arm from elbow to wrist.
“Who the hell are you?†She blurted out before realising that Canin was not just a symbol warrior and that he wore the insignia of the Nova Cat saKhan. “saKhan?â€
“Canin Rosse, Clan Nova Cat†he said bowing his head slightly “should we start again?â€
“How the hell did you get in here? That freebirth assistant knows better than to let someone important without announcement.†Marialle said angrily.
“Important? That is a start at least.†Canin muttered “He did not have much choice, I walked right past him.†Canin said, he had done just that the lower-casteman now stood behind Canin looking worried. “I am here to either negotiate for or challenge for a piece of Wolf property the lower-caste man had nothing to do with such business, I came to see you. Now should we get down to business as a pair of saKhans or shall we continue cursing, I have all day.†Canin said stepping closer sitting down on one of the seats, as he passed to the chair they passed very closely Canin could smell her perfume, something Clan Warriors rarely bothered with but Canin recognised because Yvonne always wore.
“Of course, take a seat.†Marialle said sitting down opposite smiling to cover her anger “Joshua shut the door, I will deal with you later!†She shouted at the lower-casteman Canin knew the man was probably in trouble because of him but knew it would not be the first nor the last time that a freeborn Wolf had bothered the Wolf saKhan. “What does the Nova Cat Clan want today? Some help running from the Homeworlds again? Or perhaps some ring seats to watch as brave Wolf warriors die in the Inner Sphere.â€
“It is not the Nova Cats’ fault that the invasion of the Inner Sphere has stalled, the Smoke Jaguars were too weak to have ever been allowed to join the Invasion, relying on Inner Sphere Mechs to defend their Homeworld was yet another sign that they were ready for annihilation and let us remember that soon the Tukayyid Truce will be over and invasion will begin again.â€
“True.†Marialle said looking at Canin leaning over her desk at him, again he was covered by a wave from her perfume. Canin guessed she did this to put Clan warriors in an uncomfortable position, as they were unfamiliar with such a strong scent, Canin had smelt far stronger however and sat there without a single motion. Marialle leaned back in her chair realising the tactic was having no effect, she stood up and circled the desk leaning against the front of the table mere centimetres from Canin. His initial thought on her had been correct, she was an attractive woman with a beautiful body and a willingness to use it to get what she wanted. “So what do the Nova Cats want from the Wolf Clan today.†She asked standing walking around Canin’s chair her fingers touching Canin’s braided uniform shoulders.
“The Bloodhouse Leroux.†Canin said getting straight to the point Marialle stopped fingering his uniform and walked back to her chair sitting down looking at him.
“What happened to Karl Devalis? I thought he was the Nova Cat saKhan.†She said trying to get away from that topic to loose a Bloodhouse would not devastate a Clan but it would take some of the prestige away any Clan, even a minor house like the Lervoux house was for the Wolves.
“He was. He died in combat fighting against a group of Bandit Caste warriors.â€
“Bandit Caste? I had heard no such report.â€
“It was not in Clan Space, so I am not surprised, I can forward you the data.†Canin said the Nova Cats had falsified reports and locations creating data they could give the other Clans if asked. “The Bloodhouse Leroux?†He said brining them back onto the topic and away from her trying to mislead him.
“Why do you want a Widowmaker Bloodhouse?†She asked naming the Clan that had originally owned the name before the Wolves had absorbed the Clan, its holdings and its Bloodnames centuries before.
“The Nova Cats already control the Leroux Bloodname handed down from one of the original warriors of Nicholas Kerensky. The Widowmakers also had a Leroux who helped guide their Clan’s genetic legacy. The Wolves have controlled it since they were absorbed, the Wolves have rightly treated this name as a minor house as the Wolf Clan is a proud MechWarrior Clan.†He noticed Marialle enjoyed hearing that both she and the Khan of the Wolves were MechWarriors as were most of the Galaxy and Cluster commanders. “The Nova Cats have always had a strong Naval tradition and out WarShip fleet has always been given as much respect as our ground forces. We want to honour and rejuvenate them with an influx of new genetic material.†Canin said making his best case for the Nova Cats taking over the name as he could, the Nova Cats were still willing to fight for the Bloodname Legacy if it was required.
“You are willing to trade for this, Quiaff?†Marialle asked.
“Aff, saKhan Radick.â€
“Call me Marialle†she said smiling Canin nodded and they got down to work negotiating. Following six hours of negotiating the Wolf saKhan asked for the blueprints of the Nova Cat’s new Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, information regarding the Stone Rhino Quad-OmniMech and a Cluster of Nova Cat OmniMechs. Although Canin did not like giving another Clan access to the Anna Rosse-class due to the firepower available to the design compared to other modifications of the Avatar-class Cruiser, he saw it as a small price to pay for the information on the Lervoux Bloodhouse. The same went for the Nova Cat OmniMech on his way to Strana Mechty he had found out the Diamond Sharks, Snow Ravens and Cloud Cobras had all won examples of the Mech in Trials of Possession so loosing it to the Wolves like this was a small price to pay.
Clan Nova Cat Administration Block Alpha
Svoboda Zemylya, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
4th December 3064
When they had landed in Katayusha City Canin had told Yvonne that they would be entering the most protected and sacred place in all of Clan society and that no-one would allow her to slip up with the use of contractions or allow her to mention the Inner Sphere with anything but disdain. He had also told her not to mention the Nova Cat’s Den or the new Nova Cat worlds outside their own Clan’s Administration area.
Their small car had entered the Svoboda Zemylya and been stopped at the very first checkpoint. The Svoboda Zemylya was a thirty kilometre diameter park that surrounded the Hall of the Khans and the Clan administration blocks. The Black Armoured Elementals Guards had only allowed them to enter because of Canin’s rank and warned that his lower-castewoman better stick to the rules or else. On their own again travelling into the park Canin had explained that they were the Ebon Keshik, the most elite force of all the Clans picked from the best warriors of the Clans for the sole duty of defending the Svoboda Zemylya and the Khans of the Clans. And on these grounds their word was a strong as any of the Khans.
When Canin had left Yvonne to go and see the Wolf Khan or saKhan, whomever was in residence, Yvonne had gone straight to the Nova Cat Administration Block there two Ebon Keshik Elementals had once again checked her identification tag ensuring she was authorised to enter the four storey building. Canin had given her a document that upon handing it to the highest placed lower-castewoman in the building had placed her in charge and able to go anywhere in the building. Several of the day-to-day workers in the administration block were openly hostile to Yvonne stating that she was no better than them and just because she was off gallivanting with the rest of the Clan did not put her at a higher position, ’if only they could know how high I am’ Yvonne thought quietly. Although she knew she was only a civilian in a society dominated by the military she still held a MechWarrior rank and if need be she could and would defend herself. Also she was married to the saKhan, something she and Canin would have to hide from the Clansmen here in the Clan Homeworlds, that position alone gave her the ear of the saKhan and the Khan and finally she was a member of the ruling family of the Federated Suns, an even bigger secret she would have to hide while here.
For hours she had read though reports on what the Nova Cats had access to in the Homeworlds and what it was possible to acquire. One thing that Yvonne had wanted was any equipment that could be used in a marine environment, mainly due to the water dominated New Barcella, the Nova Cats had little resources that would help with such things however the Goliath Scorpions had pioneered the Underwater-Manoeuvring Unit that propelled Undine Battle Armour under the water and they had developed several small submarines that could transport Cargo and Elementals over short distances. Yvonne added them to the list and a couple of other things, she would suggest that the Nova Cats enter trials with the Goliath Scorpions for the equipment when she saw Canin next. Some other things from Barcella, in the Homeworlds, were also ready to move to the Nova Cat’s Den. One thing she did want to move was from this very building, in the basement of this very administration block the Nova Cats had a database on the whole Nova Cat Clan. So far they had resisted moving it from the Homeworlds however Yvonne had another idea. Instead of moving it she would suggest they copy it and take it with them.
After almost eight years Canin walked into the office and crashed out on one of the comfortable sofas that was along the wall. Yvonne grabbed him a cup of steaming coffee and closed the binds around the small compact office “you get what we need?†She asked quietly stroking his arm in the privacy of the office.
“Aff, the Wolf saKhan knows how to negotiate as well as fight.†He said admiring the Wolf second-in-command slightly, Yvonne smelled the air and stood up. “What is wrong?â€
“I can smell her on you.†Yvonne said a tear running down her cheek she had feared this might happen, that the transition between being able to pick anyone they wanted at any point to being committed to one partner may be too much for Canin.
“She has a very strong perfume.†Canin said leaping to his feet putting his hands on her shoulders kissing her neck gently “nothing happened between us.†He promised her “although I think she wanted something to happen, I never even thought about it.†Yvonne turned back to him kissed him on the lips then moved away sitting behind the desk. “You believe me, Quiaff?â€
“Aff†was her only answer as she got back to work, Canin shook his head and returned to the sofa laying back looking over at Yvonne who continued to work. Over the next couple of days they finished what work that needed to be done on Strana Mechty then left the Clan Capitol heading for Barcella for a brief stop there before beginning the long journey back to the Inner Sphere. Oathmaster Zane Carns could complete the trades with Clan Wolf and take custody of the Bloodhouse without Canin and Yvonne having to remain in Clan Space. Leaving with Canin and Yvonne are the Homeworlds primary Garrison force Sigma Galaxy at the same time elements of Alpha Galaxy being to arrive. The Khan would not arrive until mid-3065.
Borealis City
New Barcella, Open water
Nova Cat’s Den
28th December 3064
As agreed the Federated Suns had sent the Nova Cats a specially modified Mammoth-class DropShip carrying three wet-navy vessels, one twelve thousand ton Persecutor-class Attack Submarine and two eight thousand-five hundred ton Rapier-class Patrol Destroyers. Aboard the vessel were a crew trained to unload the vessels, the Nova Cats had taken steps ensuring that none of the Federated Suns personnel were allowed into the vessels bridge while it was in the New Barcella system ensuring they could not report back on the location or anything about the system. The crew would be transferred aboard another vessel and shipped back to the Federated Suns ensuring any hidden recording devices aboard the vessel remained in Nova Cat control.
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Hope you enjoyed 3064 into 3065
3065
Militia Base
Clovis, Draconis March
Federated Suns
4th January 3065
After going AWOL from their Federated Suns base then causing havoc on Harrow’s Sun in the Draconis Combine then Royal in the Federated Suns the Graves’ Dancers Mercenary/Pirate force decided to test their luck with a deeper strike into the Federated Suns targeting the Clovis Militia for food, water and technical parts for their Mechs.
Landing the Graves’ Dancers, led by Captain Jean Graves, just south of the main base under the cover of darkness their plan was simple break through one of the perimeter walls with the command lance distracting the defenders while the others moved in an secured vehicles and equipment for a half dozen techs to grab the vehicles and drive out.
Unfortunately the plan did not go as Jean had planned it. Phase One went perfectly with the command lance destroying the out rider defenders of the base and crushing an entire section of perimeter fence and one of the guard towers but the rest of the Dancers separated from their commander for the briefest of times fell foul of trouble when a company of Mechs from the Second Robinson Rangers jumped them downing four Mechs before they could react. Jean Graves sixth sense seemed to know there was a problem and she led her force to the exact location of the ambush. Targeting the company and lance commanders of the enemy force first Jean’s heavier/more mobile command lance dispatched five of the Second’s Mechs in minutes allowing the remaining Dancers to evacuate the area and return to their DropShip, not the best day for the Graves’ Dancers but a valuable lesson to Jean Graves.
Clan Occupation Zones, Clan Wolf
Dell, Vulcan and Sevren
10th January 3065
The Jade Falcons launch an assault on the Clan Wolf Occupation Zone taking Dell and Vulcan in quick succession as they drive towards the Clan Wolf Occupation Zone capital on Tamar. Then on Sevren three freeborn clusters led by the Twenty-First Freeborn Cluster destroy the defending Fifth Wolf Battle Cluster. The stand-out factor of this battle is that the Twenty-first Freeborn Cluster are commanded by Star Colonel Adam. Adam is Leutnant-General Adam Steiner captured from the Lyran Alliance. In record time Adam has adapted to the Clan way and risen to command of a Cluster within the Jade Falcons. Upon hearing this development Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion leaves Adam with the Clans, if she was to rescue him he could become a potential political opponent to her rule. A month later Victor Steiner-Davion also hears of Adam’s situation, Victor has other ideas than her sister.
Aten Royal Residence
New Glasgow, Skye
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
12th January 3065
Following a year of hurt for the Skye people of the Lyran Alliance they finally have something to celebrate when Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner, heir to the conquered Tamar Province, marries his fiancé of two years Duchess of Skye Hermione Aten. The Free Skye Movement celebrate as they get a new public face in Robert Kelswa-Steiner a man who wants freedom for the Skye people. Lyran Intelligence Corps try to make widespread arrests of the Free Skye people but are unable to as the Skye people get fully behind the Free Skye Movement. Robert also vows to use his newly found position of power to forward the long term goals of retaking the long conquered Tamar Province.
Robinson Standard Battleworks
Tiberias, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Suns
21st January 3065
The Nova Cat trading vessel Guiding Vision and the Diamond Shark’s Pathfinder had moved through the Federated Suns without incident then they reached Robinson, the first real trading opportunity in the Federated Suns. The DMI Agents assigned to the vessels had asked the Clansmen to transfer units to a single DropShip before entering the system. Moving in system they had landed beside Robinson Standard Battleworks there they are met by Countess Bella Sandoval, owner/director of the Battleworks. During negotiations one of the Diamond Shark merchants let slip whom they were when explaining to the Nova Cat negotiator that they had different needs. The Countess does not reveal that she is aware of the difference and for now agrees to the trade and the Clan traders are able to secure several Sagittaire, Sentry and Watchman BattleMechs all of which the Clans could reverse engineer easily and turn into capable second-line Mechs.
When the vessel returned to the WarShips one of the Robinson based DMI agents sent a message to New Avalon regarding the identity of the two WarShips. Federated Suns High Command assigns the FSS Admiral Corinne Donnings, a Fox-class Corvette, to escort the two vessels but trusted the Nova Cats knew what they were doing inviting the Diamond Sharks to join their trading mission. The two Clans take little insult in being escorted by a Federated Suns WarShip, in-fact they take great pains to make the Admiral Corinne Donnings crew feel welcome and help the crew upgrade several of the Corvette’s recreational facilities to make the cramped Corvette more appealing to its crew.
Europa Spaceport, Melissa
Melissa Theatre, Lyran Alliance
28th January 3065
Following the fall of the Clermont system to Clan Jade Falcon forces the defenders of Melissa, the Lyran Theatre capital closest to the Clan attackers prepared themselves for trouble. Elements of the shattered Fourteenth Donegal Guards RCT, Sixth Donegal Guards RCT, Ninth Lyran Guards of the LAAF and the Avatars of Painful Death Brigade of the SLDF were ready for an attack but not in the way it happened. Elements of Delta and Kappa Galaxy dropped onto the planet two Jade Falcon Clusters dropped straight in the middle of their forces in the northern hemisphere plains while another dropped into the city, another dropped into the Spaceport and finally one more landed in their rear areas striking directly at staging bases and supplies.
It was not a typical strategy of the Jade Falcons and it paid off after sixteen hours fighting the Sixth and Fourteenth Donegal Guards ceased to exist and the other units were all heavily damaged. The Jade Falcons had lost the Seventh Talon Cluster of Delta Galaxy and the Eighth Provisional Garrison Cluster of Kappa Galaxy. However they still held the advantage. As the most senior Inner Sphere officer combat capable Colonel Laura Ziskin, commander of the Avatars of Painful Death, contacted the Jade Falcons and organised a fight against one of the leaders of the Jade Falcon force. If she won then they would be allowed to move to their DropShips and leave the planet unhindered, if she lost the entire Lyran and SLDF force would surrender to the Jade Falcons. The Jade Falcons agreed and four hours later Laura approached the spaceport in her seventy-five ton Penetrator. Against her stood Star Colonel Adam, commander of the Twenty-First Freeborn Cluster, the former Lyran General would be fighting to take control over the planet and maybe two regiments worth of Inner Sphere troops.
In a six minute trial Laura expertly disabled the legs of Adam’s Mech targeting the knee and hip joints of Adam’s sixty-five ton Hellbringer brining the Clan machine crashing to the ground. Although technically able to take Adam as a Bondsmen because she beat him in single combat Laura was unaware of the Clan custom and left Adam in Jade Falcon hands salvaging her own Brigade and the Ninth Lyran Guards from battle was enough for her. When she heard that the SLDF and her Lyran troops had evacuated Melissa to a Jade Falcon assault Katrina Steiner-Davion was angry although she was secretly pleased that they had abandoned Adam to remain with the Jade Falcons.
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Katherine is really an Ice Queen Bitch. Her only concern is her own power. I would love it if Victor comes and free's him and where is Archer Christifori. We need him roaming around the Universe.
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Katherine is really an Ice Queen Bitch. Her only concern is her own power. I would love it if Victor comes and free's him and where is Archer Christifori. We need him roaming around the Universe.
Archer serves with the SLDF in this timeline. Presently in command of the 1st Royal BattleMech Regiment, Colonel Andrew Redburn still commands the 1st Kathil Uhlans in this timeline and never joined the SLDF, Archer refused an AFFS commission when the Tenth Lyran Guards joined the AFFS.
For more info on him see this thread:
SPOILER ALERT for anyone who hasn't ready the bulletpoint version this thread takes Archer beyond where we are currently.
http://ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/character-profile-archer-kendrick-christifori/ (http://ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/character-profile-archer-kendrick-christifori/)
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Hsien
Chaos March
10th-17th February 3065
Hsien Hotheads Mercenary Regiment arrives on planet on the 10th under contract with the planetary Duke. The Hotheads are the regiment of the Twohy Family the former dukes of the planet driven out by the Capellan Confederation in 2781. Worried about the Twohys being back on Hsein the Dendeez Province and Baron Montong, two previously opposed factions on Hsien hire the Always Faithful Mercenary Regiment to counter the Hotheads. To protect the HPG the Word of Blake deploys a Level III (Battalion) of their newly formed Seventeenth Division to the world. Tensions run high with several bar brawls and minor fights between all three military forces on the world. Calls for peace fall on deaf ears as personnel from the Hsien Hotheads and Always Faithful begin targeting each other. Three Word of Blake officers are found murdered just yards from the HPG a direct indication to the Word they are not welcome on Hsien.
Kalskag, Planetary Capital
Acamar, Chaos March
21st February 3065
On the 20th February in Kalskag, the capital city of Acamar the government, which was formed and is sponsored by two major Federated Suns military contractors, vote to join the Federated Suns Capellan March with an overwhelming majority supporting the movement. Following the vote the government sends an HPG message to the Federated Suns declaring their wish to rejoin the Federated Suns fold after leaving following the break up of the Federated Commonwealth. On the 21st February the Alpha Regiment (command regiment) of the Twelfth Vegan Rangers Mercenary Brigade jumps into system at a pirate-point and drops onto the planet securing the capital then the whole world for the Federated Suns without a shot being fired. The Twelfth Vegan Rangers troops remain onsite helping arriving AFFS personnel to take over the defence of the planet and ensuring the world remains secure as the AFFS form their own militia forces and set up their own training programs a process that may take several years to complete.
Wolf’s Dragoons Hiring Halls
Harlech, Romulus
Outreach, Chaos March
27th February 3065
In the highest level of security a Broadsword-class DropShip lands at the Harlech Spaceport and a small group in an unmarked Armoured Limousine is escorted through the city by elements of the Wolf’s Dragoons Elite Wolf Spider Battalion. Disappearing into an underground parking garage the occupants are taken to the top floor of the MRBC Hiring Hall to a special suite owned and run exclusively by the Wolf’s Dragoons. Stepping clear of the elevator are Victor and Peter Steiner-Davion who immediately entered and walked up to a table occupied by Supreme Commander Jamie Wolf, Colonel Maeve Wolf and two people Victor did not recognise, one of Japanese Ancestry with a scar running from his right temple through his left eye and cheek, Victor knew him from somewhere but couldn‘t place his name the other was a very plain individual whom neither Victor nor Peter recognised.
“First Prince Davion, if we keep meeting like this people are going to believe the Federated Suns and the Wolf’s Dragoons are back working together. You could spark another Succession War.†Jamie Wolf threatened half in jest, half seriously the Federated Suns had welcomed the Wolf‘s Dragoons to the Inner Sphere in 3005 with a contract while the rest of the Inner Sphere had been very suspicious of their arrival worried about the arrival of four full regiments worth of advanced war machines and warriors then during the Fourth Succession War while the Draconis Combine threw regiment after regiment at the Dragoons attempting to eradicate them it was the Federated Suns that stepped in and save them. It had also resulted in the Dragoons being given Outreach as part of their payment for services rendered to the Federated Suns.
“Or I could stop one. Who would be stupid enough to threaten the Federated Suns and Wolf’s Dragoons, the Draconis Combine already learned the folly in that course of action.†Victor said during the Fourth Succession War the Wolf’s Dragoons had stopped the Draconis Combine offensive against the Federated Suns nearly single handily on the world of Misery when the Coordinator at the time Takashi Kurita pursued a vendetta against the Dragoons. Although it had nearly destroyed the mercenaries it had gained the Dragoons prominence throughout the Inner Sphere as the most powerful Mercenary unit and had gained the Dragoons enough respect for Victor’s father Hanse Davion to gift them the whole Outreach system.
“Very true†Jamie said thinking about Misery brought back very bad memories, he had lost a lot of good friends that day. “How can the Dragoons be of service today?â€
“I want to hire the Seventh Kommando.†Victor said all of the Dragoons Officers looked shocked even the redoubtable Jamie Wolf showed surprise rarely did anyone ask specifically for the Dragoons special forces unit and even rarer did the Dragoons admit to their existence.
“Why would you need such troops? If they even existed?†Jamie asked it was an open secret the Seventh Kommando existed and that they were amongst the most skilful special operations operators in the business but the Dragoons did not like to release any information about them or their capabilities.
“I need a specialised team that could run a snatch and grab operation against a numerically superior force with as little fuss as possible.†Victor said outlining the basic mission, it got a lot more complicated so he’d wait until he gained the Dragoons attention before saying more.
“Your own Rabid Fox could complete that type of mission very well, do not tell me that a Davion Prince does not have the resources to complete any type of mission, anywhere in the Inner Sphere.†Maeve Wolf said, she did not want the Seventh Kommando wasted on a mission house troops could accomplish, the Dragoons were not a plaything for the House Lords to use, except when the price was right. Of all the Dragoons Maeve was the second-in-command of all the Dragoons although command of WolfNet, the Dragoon Intelligence Agency, and the Seventh were still under Jamie‘s direct command even if she protested all night if Jamie agreed to use the Kommando there was nothing she could do about it.
“The Rabid Fox are more than capable.†Peter said speaking up for the first time looking to Victor who nodded with a small smile, he was glad to see his brother was beginning to accept greater responsibilities, he would need this experience. “However, to use the Rabid Fox would be politically unwise for the First Prince. In fact to have any obvious Federated Suns involvement in this operation would cause trouble for the Federated Suns with the Clans and the Star League it could even spark another Clan Invasion let alone another Succession War.â€
“The Clans?†Jamie said thoughtfully, Jamie did not like the Dragoons engaging the Clans it was bad enough that they had refused their recall order, sided with the Inner Sphere defending Luthien and training the Succession Lords how to fight the Clans. To now think about attacking them was not on Jamie’s most wanted things to do. “We will not be attacking them for you.†Jamie warned whatever the money he would not allow his forces to engage the Clans in open warfare that could easily unravel the Dragoons and cause grievous damage to his forces.
“And we would not ask you to do so.†Peter continued “what we need is a covert team to infiltrate the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone.†He said outlining more of the overall plan under Victor‘s eye he let Peter take some of the planning for this, so he may as well be involved explaining it.
“The package is Adam Steiner. A relation to the Steiner-Davion line who was captured by the Jade Falcons last year. Since that time he has become a Star Colonel in the Jade Falcon Touman commanding one of the Clan’s newest Freeborn Clusters. My sister has been willing to leave him rotting with the Jade Falcons, I on the other hand want him back.†Victor said stepping forward “If I use Federated Suns troops on Lyran soil Katrina will say that I have invaded her territory so I need a mercenary unit. The Dragoons are the only mercenaries I think that come anywhere close to being able to complete this job.â€
“Are you sure he will want to come back? If he has been promoted to Star Colonel so quickly perhaps he likes the Falcons, perhaps he has totally embraced the Clan culture? Free of politics and names, he just gets to be a warrior, that can be very appealing to a man.†Jamie explained thinking of himself before he was assigned to the Clan covert mission to the Inner Sphere, things had been so much simpler back then.
“Also you have not said where the target is?†The scared man said, to Victor it sounded like he would be taking out someone and Victor wanted to make sure it was a rescue mission starting to speak Jamie spoke up first.
“Adam is on Melissa. He recently led the Jade Falcons in securing that world.†Jamie said noticing Victor’s surprise “we have our own sources. We will complete this mission First Prince Davion, price to be negotiated after completion of the mission since we will need to factor in what the operation costs us.†Normally a price was settled on before a mission was completed but Victor trusted the Dragoons and nodded, he was surprised that Jamie had agreed to the mission so quickly perhaps he saw that Adam Steiner would be more dangerous in Clan hands than Victor‘s, if Adam became a big name in the Jade Falcon Touman he could easily become the next Phelan Kell or Ragnar Magnesson which could help the Falcons conqueror another nation or tear another clan to pieces two things that Jamie would not want at least in Victor‘s hands Adam could only help start or end a Lyran Civil War. “Give us eight months, full command rights and salvage. You will either have Adam Steiner alive and well or you will have our sincerest apologies and a full refund.†Jamie said, rarely did mercenaries offer to refund the cash obviously the Dragoons would want something big when all this was over, never know they may even ask for the Federated Suns permission for a Wolf’s Dragoons Prefecture or Protectorate in the Chaos March to counter the Word of Blake’s own moves Victor thought about that for a second then decided he’d rather have the Dragoons running the Chaos March than the Word of Blake and let them to it.
“Full Command Rights, Salvage are yours however if you fail you will still be paid, Supreme Commander. The Federated Suns does not take freebees, although I will expect a full report on why the mission was failed.â€
“Of course, with skill and a healthy portion of luck you will have a successful report.†Jamie said walking around the table shaking Victor’s hand, although an old man Jamie still had a firm handshake.
On the way back to the DropShip Peter turned to Victor “why did you not take them up on the offer for a full refund? If they do not rescue Adam then more Lyran worlds could fall because of his knowledge and we will not have someone who can stand up to Katherine and be respected by the Lyran people.â€
“The Dragoons are one of the most respected mercenary brigades in the Inner Sphere, why? Because they give their employers one hundred percent every single time. They expect full the same from their employers. If they did the mission and failed and the Federated Suns did not pay then they would see the Federated Suns as an unreliable employer, despite our past with them, and that is something that I cannot afford to happen the Dragoons could be helpful in the future.†He said in the past he had alienated the Northwind Highlanders from the Federated Suns when the Federated Suns commander on Northwind had taken some of his orders too literally. The Highlanders had not taken a contract with the Federated Suns since and Victor could not afford to loose the Wolf’s Dragoons as well.
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Secret Fleet Anchorage, ComStar Controlled
Location: Somewhere in Lyran Alliance
4th March 3065
After months of work the third and final Intrepid-class Troopship, the Dortmund, is brought into service with the ComGuard Fleet. The Dortmund remains at the anchorage for several months as ComStar abandon the facility permanently removing all technology and personnel from the base before detonating self-destruct charges throughout the complex making it completely unusable by anyone who found the wreckage. The Dortmund them moved to join the rest of the ComGuard Second fleet at the Ross 248 to begin perpetrations for full operations. The personnel and technology was shared between Tukayyid’s Focht War College, Luyten 68-28 and Ross 248 Anchorages and the Explorer Corps Columbus Base.
Hsien
Chaos March
14th-20th March 3065
After several weeks of minor skirmishes and bar brawls between Hsien Hotheads and Always Faithful Mercenary Regiments all out war breaks out when two Always Faithful MechWarriors are found dead, all evidence points to the Hotheads although they deny it. The Always Faithful commander Colonel James Burrill Riel refuses to remain calm about the incident and orders his Regiment to assault the Hsien Hotheads taking the entire planet to war. Two days after the commencement of hostilities the Capellan-friendly government call on assistance from the Capellan Confederation by the 20th March the First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry Regiment and the Shin Legion supported by the Elias Jung, a Feng-Huang Cruiser, have arrived in system securing the world for the Capellan Confederation.
The First McCarron’s lands on planet and orders the various warring factions to hold fire and withdraw, they ignore the Capellans. The Capellans then call in orbital fire support from the orbiting cruiser. The first shots land on the HPG blocking all communications to the world then on both the Hsien Hotheads and the Always Faithful Regiments. In an hour both units are virtually wiped out by Capellan orbital bombardment the First McCarron‘s Cavalry then goes over the battlefields and takes out any survivors then annihilates the Word of Blake garrison as well blaming their loss on the warring factions and the HPG on ComStar loyalists intent on calling for ComStar troops to secure the HPG and possibly the planet.
The MRBC lodge an official complaint with the Capellan Confederation placing hiring restrictions on the realm affecting any future hiring on Outreach. The SLDF on New Canton also place a complaint to the Capellan Confederation for their breaking of international law and the use of orbital bombardment for mass destruction however with operations along the Lyran/Draconis border and the Lyran/Jade Falcon Border no action is taken for now. Two days after Hsein has been pacified the Elias Jung travels to Elgin a nearby Chaos March world which capitulates to Confederation rule without a shot being fired then again to Hall the next closes Chaos March world again the world surrenders to Capellan Rule the use of a WarShip to force worlds to submit to the Capellan desires is a breach of international law however no-one challenges them over this action for now. As with the Saiph Triumvirate and the Styk Commonality before them the Capellans execute the leaders of each world and place their own leaders in charge of the worlds and to put down any resistance to the new leadership the Capellans enact martial law on Hsien, Elgin and Hall for a period of three days straight as they search for and disarm any potentially hostile groups.
WarShip Holding Shipyards
Dieron, Dieron Prefecture
Draconis Combine
25th March 3065
At one of the Draconis Combine’s premier WarShip Shipyards a spectacular lapse in security allows an ancient Vampire-class Infantry Transport DropShip to enter the shipyards. The DropShip moves alongside one of the three Vincent Mk-42 class Corvettes, the Horizon, captured from Clan Smoke Jaguar during Operation Bulldog and being retrofitted before joining the DCMS Navy. The DropShip transmits clearance codes to the WarShip and docks at its stern docking collar. Moments after the DropShip docks with the Corvette an explosion rips through the DropShip, the Corvette and a portion of the Dieron Shipyards causing significant damage to all. There is nothing left of the DropShip, the Corvette is so badly damaged all the DCMS techs can do is jettison it from the shipyard and scuttle it and the shipyards will need upwards of three years reconstruction before they can begin work on further WarShips.
Three days later members of the Black Dragon Society release footage of the bombing throughout the Inner Sphere claiming they dealt the blow to the DCMS Navy to show how weak the Kurita Family’s grip on their armed forces is. They claim that members of the Draconis Combine High Command gave them the data needed to get close to the shipyards and destroy one of the WarShips being built there. Coordinator Hohiro Kurita directs the ISF to find and eradicate the Black Dragon Society.
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Twycross
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
7th-12th April 3065
In the early hours of the 7th April 3065 three Clan Diamond Shark WarShips and an entire Galaxy of troops enter the Twycross system right in the centre of the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone. With all the fighting going on the Jade Falcons initially believe the Diamond Sharks are here to offer them with a deal to contract some Diamond Shark troops under Jade Falcon command however that soon changes when the Diamond Sharks challenge the local Jade Falcon garrison to a Trail of Possession for the world. The Diamond Sharks vow to use only Second-Line BattleMechs in taking the world, not wanting to be made to look like they needed the technological advantage the Jade Falcons also use Second-Line machines as well. After a five day trial the Diamond Sharks are victorious forcing the Jade Falcons to leave the world in Diamond Shark hands, that Clan’s first Inner Sphere accusation.
Considering what the world has cost the Clan from the initial invasion where the Clan lost a chance to control the Heir-designate to the Federated Commonwealth and were made to look like idiots by the Inner Sphere to now where the Diamond Sharks have made them look like amateurish warriors again the Jade Falcons vow never to return to the planet. The Diamond Sharks begin to build a trading outpost and a moderated sized colony on the planet supplementing the planets already sizable population and their sizable military presence. They also settle a large force on the system’s other inhabited planet Reach for unknown reasons.
Europa Spaceport, Melissa
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
14th April 3065
The five sneak-suit Seventh Kommando troopers moved like shadows through the Spaceport on Melissa the knew approximately where Adam Steiner was barracked but not the exact location. Each man was armed with a silenced submachine gun, a silenced pistol and a knife and carried various other pieces of equipment. They carried no electronic communications gear whatsoever all their communications were with hand signals or lights. When they had secured Adam they had only one thing to do fire a flare gun into the air brining in the rest of the team, then hope for the best.
Sneaking up behind the Elemental Guard on duty one of the troopers activated his vibro-blade and struck the man in the back, the vibro-blade specifically tuned to slash through Elemental Armour cut into the back of the troopers neck cutting into his lower brain functions and severing his spine. As the other Seventh Kommando troopers dragged him into the darkness the first trooper struck again aiming for the heart, it was no way for a man to live after being a warrior to be left a cripple.
Sneaking inside they found no guards or anyone on duty, it was two in the morning local time so most troopers were on early morning patrol or asleep in their bunks. Heading upstairs the Kommandos drew their silenced pistols and went room by room, if they found a Jade Falcon commander they shot him in the head until they found Adam. While two troopers guarded him the other three finished off the other two rooms worth of senior Jade Falcons hopefully severing the Cluster’s head in one blow. Something must have spooked Adam as he began to waken up, to ensure there was no resistance or noise from him one of the Kommandos injected him with a knock-out drug while a second trooper opened the rooms small window and fired a single green luminescent flare into the night’s sky. Not only was this the signal the other troopers had been waiting for the flare would lighten the sky for several minutes just as the show was beginning.
In the air five Cobra Transport VTOL aircraft flew in low dropping an entire Star of twenty-five fully armoured back-clad Elementals between them, the Dragoon Elementals began firing at everything that was not friendly creating a safe zone. Between them the sneak-suit equipped troopers began to lower Adam’s unconscious form from the room window to the ground. An Elemental burst through the ground floor door just as the last trooper reached the ground, the Elemental seeing they were not Jade Falcons opened fire with his suit’s arm mounted flamethrower setting one of the five troopers alight. The other four troopers opened fire with their own submachine guns, for a start they seamed to do little damage but then as their clips ran out of bullets the Elemental fell to the floor dead. One Kommando picked up their dead colleague while the others carried Adam to the pick up point.
In the air a pair of Aerospace Fighters were strafing the DropShips, Mechs and control towers keeping the Jade Falcons busy for now. A sixth VTOL this one a Kestrel landed amongst the Elementals and collected the sneak-suit team before lifting off into the sky joining the orbiting Cobras then all the VTOLs headed south keeping low to avoid detection while the Aerospace Fighters continued to cause more distraction and damage to the Clan forces. Now it was time to end this operation the Elementals began lighting up their Suits Jump Jets they began bounding clear of the spaceport’s perimeter fences. Two Elementals were cut down as a fifty ton Nova opened fire with its massed arm-mounted Extended-Range lasers. However the rest were able to get outside and into the open ground surrounding the spaceport. Normally this would be an unforgivable mistake by the Kommandos as they would be exposing themselves to enemy fire from all angles but not tonight. Before the Dragoons had come to Melissa they had contracted General Archer Christifori commander of the First Brigade of the Star League’s First Division and asked him if he’d be interested in fixing the loss of Melissa. The Star League commander had been more than happy to oblige and over the two days before their arrival the First Brigade along with surviving elements of the Avatars of Painful Death had landed on the world quietly entering via a pirate point behind the world to avoid detection.
As the Kommandos ran from the base the entire tree line erupted in weapons fire as the Star League troops charged out to engage the Jade Falcons who had been caught completely flat-footed finding their patrols eliminated. Four Jade Falcon BattleMechs and a dozen Elementals fell in the first barrage and a perimeter defence tower ignited into a ball of flames.
The Kommandos were not here for the liberation however and would take no part in the rest of the operation instead they headed through SLDF battle-lines and began joining up with the VTOLs which had landed two kilometres behind the trees. The six VTOLs and the surviving aerospace fighter had then flow the eighteen kilometres south to their concealed DropShip which took off as soon as they were aboard and headed into orbit to join the Beowulf which was keeping the Jade Falcon Aerospace Fighter stars and DropShips busy.
During the three day burn to the jump-point the Dragoons heard that the SLDF had gained control of Melissa back from the Jade Falcons destroying two Cluster in the process a great victory and one that had wiped the SLDF‘s blotched record clean, however, the Jade Falcons were not done with the Melissa system. At the Nadir point the Beowulf found the Jade Falcons Green Lantern a standard Congress-class Frigate. The newly refitted Beowulf immediately charged into combat, the crew eager to test the Block II configuration’s combat capabilities and show that the Dragoons’ navy was not just for show.
The Jade Falcons expecting to trade blows at long range with the Dragoons Congress, as was traditional for the class, engaged at extreme range with a Killer Whale Capital Missile which slammed into the Beowulf’s forward armour which barely noticed the strikes. The Beowulf returned fire with a pair of Kraken Telescopic Capital Missiles, the vastly more powerful guided naval missiles slammed into the front of the Green Lantern destroying its long range sensor array instantly showing the Jade Falcons they were not engaging a standard Congress and that this could get very ugly. Instead of running from a superior opponent the Green Lantern’s proud Jade Falcon crew attempted to close hoping their ten OmniFighters and pair of DropShips would be able to help them as they attempted to pass the Beowulf and bring their bigger rear guns into play. The traditional Congress had always been a perfect picket or blockade vessel hovering near a jump-point or planet using its rear guns to gun down any DropShip or JumpShip that strayed into its line of fire while the forward guns were suited for protecting the vessel from any force that approached from the opposite direction or sniping at long range at anyone with short range weapons. The Congress Block II was a totally different type of fighter and closing head on with the Beowulf was a death’s sentence for the Green Lantern.
The Beowulf crew were very happy to close the paired forward heavy Naval Autocannons in each side arc opened fire targeting the two Jade Falcon DropShips. The Autocannon salvos blew though the Union and Overlord-class DropShips armour shattering both DropShips in one single assault. The Green Lantern crew now realised their mistake not only were they against a better armed vessel but they were hopelessly outgunned and in big trouble. Turning they attempted to gain space from the Beowulf which would allow them to activate their K-F Drive and safely escape the Dragoon WarShip which was lining up for another salvo of Kraken Missiles and Naval Autocannons. The Green Lantern gunners attempted to shove off the Beowulf’s shot and make them back off however even the superior rear facing weapons of the Jade Falcon Congress was not enough threat to dissuade the Beowulf as its armour was barely scratched. With one final salvo from the naval autocannons and the Capital Missiles and the Green Lantern died as autocannons broke through the rear armour destroying the engineering deck, the two Kraken Telescopic Missiles guided by their Dragoon gunners slammed into the front of the vessel this time hitting the bridge killing the command crew. Without control and engines the Congress was as good as dead, although the gunners continued to fire for several minutes after the disabling of the vessel. Around the two Frigates the Jade Falcon OmniFighters offered their surrender to the Beowulf. Although the Dragoons did not have berths for the fighters in their fighter hangers they did have a massive cargo area that was barely full. Clearing more space they dragged the fighters and the Jade Falcon escape pods aboard taking all the prisoners as bondsman and the fighters as Isorla, the spoils of battle. As the Beowulf jumped clear of the system leaving the disabled Green Lantern to fall into Melissa’s Star exploding as the stars gravity crushed the vessel’s remains leaving little to ever say there was a WarShip there in the first place.
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Hot Springs, Beta VII and Blackjack
Lyran Alliance/Jade Falcon border
16th-19th May 3065
Following the success on Melissa the 1894th Light Horse Brigade of the SLDF along with elements of ComStar, the Lyran Alliance and Clan Wolf (in-Exile) assault three worlds inside the Jade Falcon OZ liberating them all from Jade Falcon hands with limited losses. The seizure of these worlds make the Jade Falcons realise that they are not invincible and that the Lyran Alliance could hurt them. It also puts at risk all the worlds they have taken over the last few months.
Sudetan
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
1st June 3065
Following several successful operations by the Lyran Alliance and its allies and some horrendous damage to the Jade Falcon front-line galaxies. The Jade Falcons communicate to the Lyran Alliance that they are ready to cease attacking if the Alliance is. Before anyone else can answer Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion steps forward and accepts the peace proposal without discussing it with her commanders or negotiation. She is unaware of the Wolf’s Dragoons involvement in the Melissa system or the liberation of Adam Steiner.
Altenmarkt
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
8th July 3065
The Third Drakons of the Free Rasalhague Republic attack the Clan Wolf Occupation Zone intent on striking at Clan Wolf forces close to the Republic’s few remaining worlds and supplying what little resistance forces remained in the worlds lost so many years before. Unfortunately Overste Joan Dahlstorm leads the unit on a hunt for Wolf Star Colonel Marcos Radick and the Thirty-Seventh Striker Cluster wanted by Rasalhague authorities for atrocities committed during the initial invasion of Memmingen in 3050. The Third Drakons attacked four Wolf worlds doing little damage and getting little information on the Thirty-seventh, according to the Wolf authorities the Thirty-seventh Striker Cluster had been destroyed during the Jade Falcon/Clan Wolf Refusal War and the survivors had been split amongst several different units. The Drakons, and specifically Dahlstorm refused to believe this and continued on their berserker drive across eight different worlds avoiding the Wolf forces by sheer sense of luck and unpredictability.
The Third’s luck could not last however on the world of Thun Overste Joan Dahlstorm’s Axman was felled killing the Third’s commander nearly instantly. The rage that had been driving the Third seemed to die with her and the unit threatened to rout before Overste-Lojtnant Gordon Jorgensson executed an impressive fighting withdrawal which saved the rest of the unit. Upon returning to the Free Rasalhague Republic the unit was criticised for going off-mission however were commended for their bravery and the sheer amount of damage they inflicted on the Wolves, well over a cluster divided amongst six different Clusters. For his bravery and brilliant tactical withdrawal Overste-Lojtnant Gordon Jorgensson was immediately promoted to full Overste and Third Drakons was ordered to rebuild to its full strength.
Trondheim
Ghost Bear Dominion
16th July 3065
Following their taking of Twycross in the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone it came as little surprise to the Ghost Bears when the Diamond Sharks arrived in the Trondheim system and declared a Trial of Possession for the world. The Ghost Bears however countered their Trial of Possession offering the Diamond Sharks something different in return. The Ghost Bears would remain in full control over the population of the planet and gain a discount on trades with the Diamond Shark Merchants while the Diamond Sharks would garrison the world, have a say in how the planet was run and gain ten percent of the planets Gross National Profit (GNP).
The Diamond Sharks eager to avoid another lengthy and costly trial accepted the Ghost Bear terms and began setting up their trading outpost and a small scientific research station just outside the planetary capital. Some of the planet’s local population object to another Clan being on their soil after only recently getting used to the presence of the Ghost Bears however soon the Ghost Bear rulers of the world keep them under control and stop any violence against the Diamond Sharks taking place.
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Fellanin II, District of Benjamin
Draconis Combine
2nd August 3065
With several successful raids the Graves’ Dancers had been over confident with their attack on Clovis and paid for their troubles loosing an entire Lance of Mechs, although they had been able to recover three of the downed pilots. This left them with a bit of trouble so Jean Graves ordered her mercenary/pirate force to attack the Draconis Combine border world of Fellanin II although a border world it was lighter defended than many others and according to one of Jean’s sources had recently received four brand-new OmniMechs to bolster their forces but none had been fielded yet by a commander too worried to field them in exercises in-case they were damaged.
Playing on the commander’s weakness Jean inserted most of her remaining forces onto the world as a new exercise was about to start while leading the three dispossessed warriors into the base during the exercise to steal the Mechs. The rest of the forces stayed at long range far from anyone who could blindside them while their commander was not there to watch their backs. As the locals were using training weapons they could do nothing to resist the Dancers attacks and were soon in disarray. At the base Jean’s sixth sense guided her people through the base to the four OmniMechs without coming across a single guard before all four Mechs calmly walked out of the base right in front of the base commander with Jean claiming they were the commander’s elite guard had been called to assist in defeating some Davion raiders. The four Mechs then disappeared from sight rejoining the Dancers at the DropShip quickly leaving the world returning to their JumpShip before jumping to another system.
Khan Phelan Kell’s Office, Alpha Galaxy Command
Wolf City, Arc-Royal
Pandora Theatre, Lyran Alliance
18th August 3065
When an unidentified WarShip had entered the system Khan Phelan Kell, leader of Clan Wolf (in-Exile), had expected the worse. What he had not expected was for the WarShip to transmit a request for a single DropShip to travel in system to speak with both himself and his father Duke Morgan Kell, leader of Arc Royal and commander of most anti-Clan operations along the border. After a brief talk they had agreed and a DropShip resembling the Conquistador recently fielded by the Federated Suns had travelled in system landing at the spaceport in Old Connaught, the planetary capital, then five Clan OmniMechs had moved to the capital of the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) enclaves, an area the locals called Wolf City. The Mechs bore no markings except a single black cat peering into an upturned top hat on the left knee something none of the Wolf computers recognised.
When the Mechs berthed in the Mechbay Khan Kell and his father had travelled upstairs to wait for the Clan Warriors waiting for the threat against Clan Wolf (in-Exile)’s existence, all of the Clans treated the Wolves on Arc-Royal with complete disdain and wanted to destroy them. Sitting in the office Phelan and Morgan were alone “they will offer us redemption if we join them and become part of the Clan. I will refuse and they with threaten us. I will tell them that the Werewolf and Implacable are in position to destroy their WarShip if they do anything and they will back down. With some harsh words they will leave.†Phelan said looking over at his father when it came to general politics Morgan was king, when it came to Clan politics Phelan became king for a short spell.
“We don’t even know who they are.†Morgan said he noticed Phelan screw his face up at his use of a contraction, even though Phelan had been born and raised in the Inner Sphere since 3050 he had been a member of Clan Wolf in some form he was totally indoctrinated in the Clan system of beliefs. “Don’t you give me that face Khan Kell. You might act the Clanner, but you are still my son.†Morgan said affectionately Phelan could not help smile “I don’t like it. Normally when the Clans arrive they tell us who they are first and they don’t normally say they want to talk. Nor do they offer to leave their WarShip behind and only take a single DropShip.â€
“The Clans always adapt to suit their environment. The Inner Sphere is obviously changing them quicker than anyone could imagine, even them.†Just then the door swung open and a Wolf lower-castemen walked in.
“My Khan, our guests have arrived.†He said looking over his shoulder then back to Phelan then Morgan.
“Show them in†Phelan said standing Morgan stood more slowly as the first visitor entered dressed in a charcoal suit with embroidered leather shoulder pads and a roaring cat insignia on the left breast. Morgan and Phelan instantly recognised the woman.
“Yvonne!†They both exclaimed at simultaneously Phelan rounding the table to hug his distant cousin. The Kells were related to the Steiner-Davion line through their grandfather on the Steiner side of the family Arthur Luvon. The Kells had always been strong proponents of the united Federated Commonwealth Alliance and were close to all the Steiner-Davion children with the exception Katherine whom they blamed for the break up of the union.
“How can you be here? And in that uniform?†Morgan asked watching as the second member of the party entered the room, the wolf lower-castemen left the room quietly closing the door behind him being in the room with a Khan was an honour but when there was other Clan Khans there too then it often got ugly which with the Clans turned bloody as well.
“Allow me to introduce saKhan Canin Rosse of Clan Nova Cat, my husband.†Yvonne said turning to Canin linking hands with him. Now far from Clan space they could be a couple once more.
“Husband?†Morgan asked as he reached out to shake Canin’s arm, he shook with his left hand because his right arm had been lost in a bomb explosion that had also killed Yvonne’s mother Melissa Steiner-Davion many years before, another thing Morgan blamed on Katherine. “What is going on Yvonne? How did you become a Clansmen? When did you marry? And when did you become a MechWarrior? And why were we not invited? Did Victor put you up to this?†Morgan asked rapid fire questions Yvonne smiled broadly.
“We are here on official Clan Nova Cat business, hence the uniforms and the WarShip support.†She said looking up slightly as if looking for the next question asked to her “I became a Clansmen when we were married which happened about a year ago on the Nova Cats new Homeworld. I became a MechWarrior while staying with the Nova Cats a couple of years ago but I do not regularly take to the field.†She said forgetting the next question allowing Canin to get some words in.
“You were not invited because it was a private ceremony and the Nova Cats like the secrecy of our new Homeworld.†He said looking back to Yvonne who was smiling at him admiring his restraint. In the Homeworlds he had been the one having questions thrown at him while she was largely ignored now he seemed to adapt easily.
“And no Victor did not put me up for or force me into this, Morgan†Yvonne said looking at Canin while she spoke “I married Canin and left the Federated Suns, and my life behind, because I love him and the Nova Cat Clan.†She said leaning in to kiss Canin who gladly met her lips. Phelan and Morgan exchanged a glance both were completely gob-smacked.
“Now we are a little pressed for time, could we begin Quiaff?†Canin asked Phelan nodded and moved behind the desk once more while Morgan dropped into the chair looking at Yvonne not Canin he didn’t know what to say, it had been years since he‘d seen Yvonne and the last thing he had expected was this. Canin led Yvonne to the chair and she sat while he remained standing behind her his lands laid protectively on her shoulders. Yvonne noticing Morgan’s stare and chose to ignore it instead linked her right hand with his left hand crossing her arm over her chest.
“saKhan Canin Rosse, how can the Wolves assist the Nova Cats today?†Phelan asked the Nova Cat saKhan giving Yvonne a slight glance then looking directly at Canin now was the time for leaders to speak, other things could be sorted later. For Canin's part he thought it amusing that the Exile Khan followed the same routine as the Wolves saKhan had perhaps the old phrase was right "all wolves think alike, even the foolish ones."
“Khan Kell?†Canin asked testing the waters, Phelan had attained the Ward Bloodname once, Phelan nodded so Canin continued “We want the Leroux Bloodname held by your Clan.†Canin said directly, no point in wasting time.
“We lost all out Bloodnames when we were abjured for joining the Inner Sphere.†Phelan said if the Clans believed they had kept all their genetic information it would make them even more angry.
“Neg, copies of the Wolf Bloodnames were transferred to your WarShip, the Ulric Kerensky, before it left Clan controlled space and since then have been held here on Arc-Royal somewhere. The Exiles have not built a Genetic Repository that can be seen easily but it exists as do three training sibkos.†Canin said revealing exactly what the Clans knew and to be perfectly honest cared nothing for the Exiles clung to their Clan origins like children who had left home. Refusing to give up their inheritance even if it could result in their destruction “would you like to know where we believe they are, Quineg?â€
“Neg, but we would like to know how you found out.†Phelan would not be drawn on confirming or denying where the Bloodnames were housed. It appeared the Nova Cats were well informed, Phelan quietly wondered how many of the other Clans knew the Exile's secret.
“All the Clans have a Watch Division†Yvonne said quietly maintaining the secret.
“Well if such a thing existed you must know that we cannot just turn it over to you. The loss of a Bloodname is a large loss for a Clan to endure.†Phelan said
“The Wolves seemed to care little for the Leroux line, a Widowmaker line, they traded for it instead of fighting. We are willing to trade for it or fight your choice.†Canin said continuing on Phelan was slightly shocked that the Crusader Wolves had turned over the Bloodname so easily.
“My Touman is small saKhan I cannot, I will not, just turn over a Bloodname without a fight, we will fight for the name. A Star versus Star Battle?†he suggested keeping the fight as small as possible without dishonouring the name with a meaningless one-versus-one fight. Canin nodded a star versus star battle would be enough.
“Something for tomorrow. For tonight you will join us and some of the Hounds for a proper Arc-Royal dinner†Morgan said to Yvonne who smiled politely ready to refuse, she wanted no special treatment just because of her old family ties. “saKhan Rosse, you are also welcome†he said looking up at Canin.
“I am afraid…†Yvonne began before Canin stepped in.
“We will be delighted, Grand Duke Kell, we will eat together tonight then tomorrow my warriors will defeat Khan Kell’s in honourable combat, a perfect visit.†Canin said smiling Morgan shook his head slightly taken aback by Canin’s easy going attitude, he was like few Clansmen whom he’d ever met.
Kell Ancestral Home
Old Connaught, Arc-Royal
Pandora Theatre, Lyran Alliance
18th August 3065
Later that night Canin and Yvonne made their way to the Kell Ancestral Home just outside the planetary capital. As he had done when on New Avalon visiting the Davion Royal Palace Canin simply wore a clean version of the standard uniform of the Nova Cats while Yvonne wore a form fitting dark blue dress, entering the Palace they were welcomed by a pair of troopers one in a Kell Hound uniform and another in Clan Wolf infantry fatigues. They were escorted to the main dinning room, inside the room already were Grand Duke Morgan Kell, Khan Phelan Kell, Lt Colonel Daniel Allard - the ground commander of the Kell Hounds, Star Colonel Ranna Kerensky - Phelan’s executive officer/lover - and Megan Kell - Phelan’s sister and Daniel Allard’s wife.
They welcomed as foreign dignitaries with full honours and they got down to eating the meal with little ceremony. As was protocol Canin sat opposite Morgan at the other end of the table with Yvonne on his right hand side while the others filled in the other places. For the most part the small talk of the meal were directed at Yvonne, there were a couple of questions for Canin. For his part Canin didn’t mind let the spheroids have their talk. Throughout the meal Canin observed Ranna Kerensky keeping an eye on them and on Phelan Kell, he did not know what the relationship between the Star Colonel and the Exiles Khan was but from her interest in Canin and Yvonne meant there was something there or she hated their union, both very strong possibilities and both worth watching for, people could do strange things when they wanted or wanted to destroy something.
Following the meal they all drank and talked about things that had been happening with the Jade Falcons and in general the Lyran Alliance, there were some questions about the Nova Cat’s new home however all Canin and Yvonne were willing to reveal was the name of their Homeworlds - The Nova Cat‘s Den nothing to do with its location. Phelan guessed it was somewhere in the periphery near the Federated Suns, as somehow Yvonne had become involved with them, however neither Canin or Yvonne would be drawn on the subject and Morgan changed the talk before the Wolf Khan or Nova Cat saKhan came to blows.
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Proving Grounds, Arc-Royal
Pandora Theatre, Lyran Alliance
19th August 3065
The next day a combined-arms Star of Watch Cluster warriors engaged a star of three Wolf OmniMechs and ten Elementals. After around twenty minutes the Nova Cat vehicles supporting the Mech overwhelmed the Wolf Mechs and the Nova Cat Elementals defeated the Wolf Elementals ending the fight. Following the battle and their victory Canin suggests that they mend the wounds caused by the Nova Cats capturing the Bloodname and offered the Wolves a trade a Nova Cat OmniMech for an Arctic Hunter OmniMech and an Arctic Fox OmniMech two locally produced Wolf (in-Exile)/Kell Hound OmniMechs. Khan Kell and Duke Kell agreed to the trade and with the Bloodname and two new Mech designs secured the Nova Cats had all the data on the Leroux line and data they could use to expand their Touman’s strength they retreated from the Lyran Alliance returning to the periphery as they returned to the Nova Cat’s Den.
Itabiana, Alberio Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
26th August 3065
Following Twycross and Trondheim the Draconis Combine border world of Itabiana, a lightly industrialised world controlled by Clan Star Adder prior to Operation Bull Dog, falls to Clan Diamond Shark following a brief Trial between the defenders and the Diamond Sharks Deathstrike Galaxy. The Diamond Sharks allow all the defenders and anyone who wishes to leave to do so. They inform the people leaving that they will open the world as a trading world to the Clans and the Inner Sphere and anyone who wishes to trade there will be able. They do warn however that if anyone causes trouble the retribution from the Diamond Sharks will be deadly and swift.
Skies over Farmindas (Planetary Capital)
Alpheratz, Outworlds Alliance
2nd September 3065
Pirate Attacks were few over the capital city of the Outworlds Alliance, most pirates knew that they would never survive the burn to the planet because of the heavy aerospace presence in the Alliance. This particular pirate had however decided that they wanted to test the Alliance defences entering at one of the few pirate points the four DropShips, two Overlords, a Fortress and a Leopard CV had burned directly at the planet. As the rest of the defenders of the First Alliance Air Wing, their ground support units and a Trinary of Clan Snow Raven Warriors engaged the landing pirates a special unit would engage the Leopard CV and its fighters which had been attacking several civilian cargo haulers.
Director Liam Wilson lead his eight Corax OmniFighters up out of the planet’s atmosphere and headed for the engagement. The Corax was a labour of love for the Outworlds Alliance military scientists and the military as a whole. With some help from Clan Snow Raven they had developed their first OmniFighter which had been named Corax in honour of the Snow Raven help. Liam had met dozens of Snow Ravens over the development of the Corax and discovered one thing over everything else, they liked aerospace fighters and WarShips over everything and respected them. In Liam’s eyes that made them worthy of the Outworlds Alliance support and respect over everything else.
At thirty tons the Corax was one of the lightest fighters ever to be built but it was nimble, well armoured and had decent punch. Liam’s fighter and his wingman used a pair of medium pulse lasers mounted in the nose and pairs of medium lasers in the wings with small lasers aft giving them a constant barrage of weapons fire. The other fighters carried three different weapons configurations as the Alliance tried to figure out the best mix of weapons one pair carried a nose mounted Large Pulse laser with wing mounted mediums for back up, the third pair carried two six-shot Short Range Missile racks on the wings with small lasers covering the rear while the last pair carried a single twenty-tube Medium Range Missile Launcher purchased from the Draconis Combine. The Medium Range Missile was a rubbish weapon in Liam’s opinion because it lacked accuracy to make it useful in a dog-fight but it had a decent punch and if they got the chance Liam would release them on the Leopard CV where it would be nearly impossible to miss and their damage potential could be shown.
“Okay people remember these birds are brand-new if any of your gauges go over safe limits call bingo and get out of the fight no reason to risk the bird or your life, copy?â€
“Roger One†his wingman Rebecca Delgado said instantly the other pilots came back more slowly but all acknowledged he was right, this would be the Corax’s first fight and the Alliance wanted none lost on the first fight, it didn’t mean that they wouldn’t throw them about just that they would be a little more careful.
“Lets get dug in there are six of them and eight of us a turkey-shoot.†He said gunning the fighters engine forward the Leopard CV was sitting behind the fight out of the way a cautious skipper knowing his DropShip would be vulnerable to the cargo haulers guns if they closed, not that the cargo haulers could do any real damage just that this skipper was being extra cautious. “Seven, Eight, One†he said talking to the rearmost pair of fighters “the DropShip is hiding at the back flank around the main spit-ball and hit them, see if we can get them to give up making the dog-fight a bit easier.â€
“One, Seven, Gotcha we’ll hit them and get the prize.†The lead pilot said as the two aircraft broke off from the main group and headed to the DropShip, with luck the DropShip wouldn’t see them allowing them to get off a salvo or two before it fired back Liam thought quietly.
“Two Flight, One, take the pair of Tomahawk above the Haulers.†Liam ordered hoping that Two flights large pulse lasers would be big enough to give the Forty-five ton Tomahawk pair something to think about, it was a difficult job he had given them but if they used their fighters full mobility then they could stay in behind the Tomahawk away from the main guns.
“Understood leader†Three, Pilot Samantha Walsh said as she lead four after the slow moving Tomahawk.
“Three Flight, One, you have a tougher nut. I read a pair of Sholagars out there they have better mobility but no back guns get in and give them a rear full of SRMs they’ll start running for mammy.
“Five, One, hope not boss I want the techs to paint at least one on this baby when we get back to base.â€
“If the powers that be allow it.†Liam said as the third pair of fighters moved in on the Sholagars they were faster and heavier but like the Tomahawks lacked rear guns so should be relatively easy kills the biggest problem for Three Flight was their weapons had limited range.
“So we get the fun pair boss?†Rebecca asked.
“Roger that Becky, which do you want? High or low?â€
“I always did like scraping the bottle, I’ll take bottom†she said angling her fighter towards the target Liam nodded this wasn’t going to be easy. Against them was a pair of Sparrowhawks, the same weight but faster, their advantage would be in the weapons because of the Sparrowhawks massive engines they had little offensive weapons and normally nothing around the back.
Liam angled towards the top Sparrowhawk all the time watching his fighters close Four Flight let of a pair of salvos of missiles striking the Leopard CV causing a slight decompression as they combined fire on a specific spot. Liam keyed in his comm. system switching to broadband “Pirate Force this is the Outworlds Alliance Air Corps you are under arrest and ordered to stand down your weapons and throttle back your engines to safe.â€
“Negative, we are going to kill you then take what we came for.†One of the pirates said as the pirate fighters began angling to engage the fighters. Liam engaged maximum thrust chasing the Sparrowhawk which dived behind the cargo haulers knowing that Liam would not fire on them while they circled near the DropShip. Liam activated his civilian comm. channel targeting it at the DropShips as he manoeuvred near the enemy Sparrowhawk which appeared to be trying to angle in on Four Flight who were continuing their attacks against the DropShip.
“Cargo Hauler Maestro this is Outworlds Alliance Air Corps querying what are you carrying? What are these pirates after?â€
“Alliance leader, we have six hundred Extended-Range Large Lasers aboard our vessels.†The DropShip commander said as Liam passed the bridge of the lead vessel opening fire with his fighters forward guns catching the Sparrowhawk on the port wing.
“Six hundred? Where is your escort?†Liam asked normally weapon shipments to the Draconis Combine or Federated Suns who both bought weapons from an Alliance company were escorted by at least a squadron of aerospace fighters until they reached the safety of the JumpShip and could get out of the system.
“They got called into helping the ground fight.â€
“Great.†Liam said as the Sparrowhawk attacked the two Medium Range Missile armed Four Flight “Four flight keep your runs going on that DropShip, I have the fighter. Civilian Hauler pour on the power and get the hell out of here.â€
“Got a problem there the number two thrusters is critical already, meant to replace it but never got around to it. If I push it then it could blow.â€
“If your don’t your dead.†Liam said giving it to the man straight, there was a reply but Liam missed it as the enemy Sparrowhawk he had been chasing spun on the spot and opened up on him with his six small lasers. One struck the edge of the canopy while the others hit the nose and the wings. “Damn†Liam said spinning his fighter trying to make it a harder target, as he turned he straightened out and opened up on the nearly stationary Sparrowhawk the pulse lasers concentrated on the damaged wing while the others hit the body of the pirate fighter. The pulse lasers must have hit a critically weakened part of the damaged wing as the entire assembly crumpled disabling the fighter. Looking around Liam could see that Rebecca was driving the second Sparrowhawk towards him, diving into the fighter’s path he lined up on both craft and opened fire with a full laser and pulse laser barrage, Rebecca fired at the same time from rear. The two barrages of weapons fire converged on the Sparrowhawk consuming it and the pilot in a ball of flame.
With their targets eliminated Liam looked around for another target and found nothing hostile remained with both Tomahawks and the Leopard-CV surrendering under the guns of the Corax fighters. Another bonus was all eight aircraft had survived their baptism of fire intact and combat ready. On the ground the pirates had caused heavy damage to the capital and the defenders however they had also been defeated, the Outworlds Alliance’s Capital was safe once again. "Cargo Hauler, we will escort you and your cargo to ground."
"Thank you pilot, nice aircraft you have there, glad you are on my side."
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Yea Archer is here
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Time to really throw the cat among the pigeons, plenty more trouble here...
Clan Snow Raven Capital
Lum, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
8th September 3065
As their new allies come under assault from pirate forces in the Periphery Clan Snow Raven finds its own capital under siege by Clan Steel Viper angered at the Snow Ravens attacks against them when they were forced out of the Inner Sphere and back to the Homeworlds by Clan Jade Falcon.
The Steel Vipers debuted several of their new Mercer-class DropShips and a sizable portion of their WarShip fleet to punch through the Snow Ravens defensive cordon. The Steel Vipers did not bother to ask for safcon for their ground forces knowing the Snow Ravens would never grant it, they had always relied on their aerospace and WarShip forces for defence at the expense of their ground forces.
Once on the ground the Steel Vipers got to work expanding their territory in rapid fashion. Clan Steel Viper Khan Perigrad Zalman landed two days later with two more Cluster of troops as the Steel Vipers again broke the Snow Raven blockade. The Khan ordered his troops to increase their trials for territory and resources intent on taking the Snow Raven capital world crippling their Clan for decades, if not destroying them entirely.
Diamond Shark Trade Holdings
Itabiana, Diamond Shark Occupied Space
12th September 3065
The first Draconis Combine trade DropShip arrives in system, a Rose-class transport known for its impressive defensive capabilities as well as being a decent cargo hauler. To the Combine traders/ISF Agents are surprised they find the Diamond Sharks more than willing to trade Clan technology with them. After a week’s negotiation the Diamond Sharks and Draconis Combine agree to their first trade trading nearly a Battalion’s worth of Clan-built ninety ton Mad Cat Mk II and sixty-five ton Ha Otoko BattleMechs for raw materials and other supplies. The Diamond Sharks also agree to trade the Ha Otoko’s design blueprints for extra raw materials and supplies going as far to show the Draconis Combine traders how to modify the design to make it easy to produce with Inner Sphere technology. When the leaders of the expedition inform the Coordinator of what they experienced on Itabiana Hohiro Kurita lifts all trade bans with the world and encourages several of his military trading companies to travel to the worlds to see exactly what the Draconis Combine can get out of the deal.
Throne Room, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
16th September 3065
Although he had been made aware of the Dragoons success on Melissa and their subsequent evacuation of Adam Steiner from Jade Falcon hands today was a big day for Victor as Adam arrived on New Avalon and was brought to the throne room of the Davion Royal Palace. The Seventh Kommando escort brought Adam into the throne room and fanned out near the entrance as Jamie Wolf and Adam approached Victor who immediately rose form his throne. “Congratulations and Welcome back to New Avalon, Supreme Commander Wolf.†Victor said moving over to Jamie first, he noticed Adam was walking around in a slight daze “your payment has been prepared and is ready for pick-up.†Victor said the Dragoons had requested a new Conquistador-class DropShip and licences to build the Federated Suns Targeting Computer and Rotary Autocannon on Outreach freeing the Dragoons from needing to always import technology to keep their forces operational. Victor had been happy to trade this with the Dragoons and even got them to agree to allow the Federated Suns to buy some of the exclusive Dragoon produced Mechs at Blackwell Industries on Outreach.
“Thank you, First Prince Davion†Jamie said shaking Victor’s outstretched hand then stepping away from Adam Victor followed and Jamie continued in a hushed voice. “He is not the same man he was before being taken by the Falcons. It appears they used some sort of hyper-accelerant methods of indoctrination on him that took quiet quickly, he believes he is still a Clansmen and that he is my bondsman. He does not believe that he was once a member of the Lyran noble family and was very hostile when we mentioned Katherine’s name.â€
“He’s among family, we’ll make him better, Supreme Commander. Thank you.†Victor said nodding to Jamie who returned the nod and without another word left the throne room. Victor stepped back over to Adam “welcome to New Avalon, Adam.†Victor said stepping in front of him, Adam still wore the off-duty of a Jade Falcon officer.
“New Avalon? I know you, sire?†He said looking at Victor for the first time “Victor?†Victor nodded “you ordered my capture?â€
“I ordered your rescue†Victor corrected “because my sister Katherine, Archon of the Lyran Alliance, was willing to leave you with the Jade Falcons.â€
“Katherine, that bitch†Adam said dismissively looking around. “What am I doing on New Avalon, sire?†He asked Victor still very formal.
“If you had been taken to Tharkad then you’d likely be in even more trouble now. I asked the Dragoons to return you here so you could regain your strength. We have set aside some land in a secluded spot on New Avalon. You won’t be bothered and you’ll be able to recover.†Victor said placing a hand on Adam’s shoulder. “The Guards will take you to your aircraft. If you need anything don’t hesitate to ask.†Two guards in Davion Guard uniform approached silently from the doors.
“Thank you Victor.†Adam said his voice almost a whisper as he followed the guards out Adam turned before he left the room “it’s good to be free.†He said quietly before walking back out of the throne room. Victor crossed the room and returned to his Throne and sat down to think.
“You think he can be saved?†Peter asked moving out of the shadows behind the throne.
“You better hope so. You will need his support.â€
“Me? I thought you wanted him to challenge Katherine for the Lyran throne?â€
“No, Peter, It is our blood rite for the Lyran throne.†Victor said quietly his father and mother were leaders of the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth before the Federated Commonwealth merger. Victor wanted that legacy to remain, Adam was a member of the family but a cousin not a direct member of the ruling line. “I want you to challenge for the Lyran throne and I believe that you can win the Lyran people with Adam’s help.†Victor said turning his chair to look at Peter.
“I don’t know the first thing about leading a nation.†Peter said quietly very honestly
“You know more than me, you’re older and wiser than I ever was and I think you can lead the Lyran people well.†Victor said looking at his younger brother move into the room there was conflicted thoughts on his face as he thought about what Victor was saying. As the Federated Suns’ Prince’s Champion he had learned a lot, but he was not sure if he was ready.
“If… if I do what you are saying†Peter began “I will rule the Lyran realm as I see fit. The Lyran Alliance will not be an extension of the Federated Suns.†He warned Victor he would not be Victor’s pawn, if he had a nation it would be his to do as he saw fit.
“The Federated Commonwealth is dead Peter. My actions and Katherine’s decided that. I have no wish to rule the Lyran Alliance, but I do not want Katherine remaining in that position either, she is an unfit leader as Romano Liao was an unfit leader of the Capellan Confederation. The Lyran people need a strong leader, Adam was once that man but he has gone through a lot, Morgan Kell is another but I know he would never accept the post even on a temporary basis, he believes in the Steiner-line too much, so that leaves you.â€
“What about Caesar Steiner or even Reinhart?†Peter asked naming two other prominent members of the Lyran noble family.
“I have been unable to contact Caesar to see his point of view but according to Reinhart his father has no wish to lead the Alliance or oppose Katherine, she has left him alone and he has left her alone despite her politics. Reinhart abandoned the Lyran Alliance when he and the Tenth Lyran Guards agree to join the Federated Suns signing on with the AFFS to stop Katherine recalling them to the Alliance.â€
“But I am the Federated Suns Prince’s Champion and a Major in the AFFS. How could the Lyran people accept me?â€
“Your commission with the AFFC still exists.†Victor said quietly Peter looked at him more closely “when you asked me for a job I gave you a commission in the AFFS but your Federated Commonwealth rank of Leftenant is still yours. You have spent the last ten years in the Alliance, the Lyran people will still see you as having a right to the throne.â€
“You’ve thought about this a lot haven’t you?†Peter said a small face crossed his face Victor similarly smiled, a polite smile to cover his worry that Peter would refuse his plan. “It seems we have some planning to do.†Peter said quietly.
“No, we wait until the Lyran Alliance calls to you.â€
“Calls to me? How will it do that Katherine is solidly in charge.â€
“No, according to DMI reports the attacks on Skye by the Draconis Combine and the assassinations of the Aten family have weakened her standing as have the attacks by the Jade Falcons and the loss of Adam to their offensive. The Lyran people do not see her as the person to keep them safe any longer the cracks are beginning to show. Katherine left Adam with the Jade Falcons to alienate a political opponent but she alienated her own people. Soon you will give her another opponent one the people will rally behind, hopefully Adam will make a recovery and then he can help you his name still pulls a lot of weight in the Alliance.â€
HPG Broadcast
Inner Sphere, Clan Occupation Zones and Periphery
21st September 3065
Across the Inner Sphere and the surrounding Periphery Hyper Pulse Generators controlled by ComStar the Word of Blake and the Clans all activated receiving the same message over and over on dozens of worlds this message went instantly onto the planets information and for six hours the Inner Sphere was paralysed as the HPGs continued to receive the message over and over.
“People of the Human Race, today I bring you grave news.†A white cloaked man said his eyes covered by the cloak “we have been lied to by the very people who claim they no longer interfere with Inner Sphere politics and the Succession States. The Information I present comes directly from the information vaults on Terra and Tukayyid.†The figure said activating a holo-tank brining up a picture of Captain-General Thomas Marik, Leader of the Free Worlds League. “This man is a fake. The man the Inner Sphere knows as Thomas Marik is not the same man who joined ComStar. The bomb blast that our Captain-General claims he was disfigured by killed the real Thomas Marik and ComStar used it to place one of their ROM Agents at the head of a Succession State.†The man said bringing up two DNA files “these files show that these two men are two different individuals. Unfortunately for ComStar the man they turned into Thomas Marik refused to be their puppet and instead served the Free Worlds League loyally. Despite this loyalty he is not a member of the ruling family of House Marik and his continued support of the Word of Blake will bring the Free Worlds League’s people to ruin.†The man said pulling his cloak back behind his head his eyes were circled by large black patches indicating he had not been sleeping properly “people of the Inner Sphere, people of the Free Worlds League I plead with you renounce this man and bring ComStar’s and the Word of Blake’s influence over the Succession Lords to an end. Death to the Children of Jerome Blake!†He shouted over and over. For six hours the same message was played and across the Inner Sphere there were attacks against ComStar and the Word of Blake. For a start it was thought this was a coordinated attack however soon people realised that they were dealing with angry nations. The Free Worlds League military began sealing its borders as Parliament met to look over the data, discuss their response and allow Thomas Marik to answer the charge.
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Star League Emergency HPG Broadcast
Inner Sphere Wide
28th September 3065
The leaders of the Inner Sphere are asked by the Free Worlds League to hold an HPG conference following the announcement that Thomas Marik was a fake. Instead of Thomas Marik representing the Free Worlds League Paul Marik the Captain-General’s brother and Minister of Free Worlds League Intelligence represents the League. As the representative of the party that asked to hold the Conference Paul Marik begins.
“Leaders of the Inner Sphere as you are aware Information attaining to the true Identity of the man we knew as Thomas Marik was released to the Inner Sphere. Following an Investigation the Free Worlds League Parliament have found this man guilty of impersonating a Succession Lord and he has been executed.â€
“Executed?†Candice Allard-Liao said startled “he was the First Lord of the Reborn Star League and probably the most stable leader of all the Succession States and you have had him killed? Are you insane? What about his family?†she asked Thomas Marik, or at least the man who had been known by that name had children.
“At last we may gain some respect.†Sun-Tzu Liao whispered just loud enough for all to hear. In Inner Sphere politics the Liao’s had always been seen as the crazy family.
“He was an agent of a foreign power who had infiltrated the Free Worlds League with the intent to leading the nation under orders of another. He was a criminal and punished for his crimes. Parliament has dissolved Resolution 288 giving all power to the Captain-General and has chosen to withdraw the Free Worlds League from the Star League Defence Force. His family have been placed under house arrest here on Atreus until their fate can be decided†The Free Worlds League had been the one of the strongest supporters of the Star League their loss was a big one for the League. “All contracts the Free Worlds League held with the other nations of the Inner Sphere are hereby cited as being null-and-void. These terms are non-negotiable, I thank you for your time.†Paul said cutting the Free Worlds League HPG link, the Free Worlds League had been fulfilling contracts with the Lyran Alliance, Draconis Combine and Federated Suns to supply them with technology and equipment to be used to fight the Clans since the early 3050s an agreement brokered by Thomas Marik. The Free Worlds League’s withdrawal from Inner Sphere politics and now Inner Sphere trade was a worrying trend.
“I call for a vote of no-confidence in the Star League, the Clan threat is over we do not need it. The Capellan Confederation votes no.†Sun-Tzu Liao said if less than two thirds of the Star League member states voted yes the Star League would be dissolved.
“The St Ives Compact votes yes, the Star League still has a place in the Inner Sphere and despite the loss of the Free Worlds League is still a powerful organisation.â€
“The Federated Suns also vote yes and dedicate an increased percentage to the Star League to cover the loss of a member state. The Star League showed its worth on the Jade Falcon Border and the Lyran/Combine border, it still has a place.†Victor said the Star League was also controlled by Morgan Hasek-Davion a stanch supporter of Victor and the Federated Suns.
“The Draconis Combine also vote yes. The Star League personnel aboard Unity City and the Intelligence assets made available to me were instrumental in helping find the killer of my sister Omiko Kurita and ending the Ghost Bear War. The Star League has my nations full support and I am also willing to increase our support to match the Federated Suns to maintain and expand the Star League.†Hohiro Kurita said Sun-Tzu Liao looked as if he would explode, things were not going to how he had foreseen them.
“As the sitting First Lord I will put full support behind the Star League from the Free Rasalhague Republic.†Christian Mansdotter said.
“The Lyran people will also support the Star League, the Star League Defence Force was instrumental in returning Melissa to us, our support is the least we should offer. I will match the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine in increasing support to the SLDF.†Katrina said.
“Fine the Star League is upheld. If there is nothing else?†Sun-Tzu Liao said quickly “fine, good day.†He said cutting the Capellan link to the net the other lords soon cut their own links ending the Emergency Conference. The Free Worlds League had been lost but the Star League was still strong and still very much in power.
Free Worlds League
Across the Nation
31st September-7th October 3065
With the truth about Thomas Marik out and the Parliament unable to reach a consensus on anything Civil War breaks out across the Free Worlds League as the military tries to find its own resolution to the problems. Duchies once allied under the Free Worlds League begin fighting each other. Word of Blake troops and personnel in the Free Worlds League become favourite targets for Free Worlds League troops wanting to vent their aggression and anger on someone other than their own people.
On the 1st October the first signs of unrest begin to show as the Thirteenth and Fifteenth Marik Militia both go Absent Without Leave (AWOL). Both units refuse all communications travelling out of the Free Worlds League Claimed space landing on Terra pledging their loyalty to the Word of Blake.
Assuming much of the Captain-General’s duties Paul Marik sends the First, Second and Third Free Worlds Legionaries to Gibson launching a retaliatory strike against the Word of Blake for circumventing the Free Worlds League’s control over the two Militia units. As the regiments are supported by the WarShips Delphi (Thera-class Carrier), Bors and Kay (Eagle-class Frigates) Paul is confident that they can break the Word of Blake’s hold on the world.
Three days later only a heavily damaged Kay and the battered remains of the First Free Worlds Legionaries returns to Atreus Intact both the Second and Third are destroyed as were the Delphi and Bors. The Kay’s crew report that four Word of Blake WarShips and at least a Division of ground troops were destroyed however the loss of one of the Thera-class Carriers, on the classes first taste of real combat, is a major blow to the Free Worlds League navy and its shaken people.
Following this failed assault the WarShips Liberty (Vincent Mk-39-class Corvette), Raven and Schrack (Essex-class Destroyers), Nueva Badajoz and Olympic (Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers) and the Xanthos (Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser) all hulls the FWL reactivated from mothball from the First Star League-era all go AWOL from their posts reappearing over a month later in the Terran system. This loss guts the FWL Navies back causing the leaders of the Free Worlds League’s states to take drastic action.
On the 7th October Paul Marik is murdered by an unknown individual on the floor room of parliament and the Free Worlds League Parliament dissolve, possibly permanently. The Free Worlds League ceases to exist as a functioning nation.
The WarShips Santorini (Thera-class Carrier) escorted by the Lancelot and the Galahad (Eagle-class Frigates) make a run at Atreus collecting the Gold and Silver Regiments of the Knights of the Inner Sphere and Sherryl Halas, Thomas Marik’s wife, accompanying her are Thomas’ three children Jonas, Christopher and Jessica. The three WarShips refuse all communications and orders from the Free Worlds League Militia commanders on the ground and threaten any WarShip, DropShip or fighter with destruction if they close. The WarShips then take their precious cargo to the relative safety of the Halas holdings on Oriente.
Sandoval Family Residence
Castle Robinson, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Suns
7th October 3065
Following a massive stroke James Sandoval Duke of Robinson and Field Marshal of the Federated Suns Draconis March lapses into a coma on Robinson. Baron Tarncred Sandoval, his son assumes the position of Minister of the Draconis March from his father, the rank of full Field Marshal and command of all AFFS and Afflicted Mercenary troops in the Draconis March. Because James is still alive Tarncred does not yet assume the hereditary title of Duke of Robinson.
Coventry, Coventry Province
Lyran Alliance
8th October 3065
The Krushers Mercenary Regiment commanded by youngest sister to Thomas Marik hears of troubles in Free Worlds League and informs Coventry Duke Thomas Fredrick Bradford that she is activating her Regiments emergency escape clause and taking her people back to the Free Worlds League in an attempt to stabilise the nation. Although Bradford attempts to get her to reconsider he is a supporter of Victor Steiner-Davion, over Katherine, and when he receives a message asking him to honour The Krushers decision Bradford steps down and allows The Krushers to leave unmolested.
Wasat, Independent Member
Free Worlds League
11th October 3065
The Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser Xanthos reappears in Free Worlds League space entering the Chaos March border world of Wasat on October 10th. The FWLS Jonas Marik, an Impavido-class Destroyer, is dispatched to intercept the vessel as it recharges its Jump Engines.
When the Jonas Marik arrives the Xanthos immediately launches all DropShips and fighters and attacks the Destroyer and its own auxiliary craft. In a short one sided battle the much larger Xanthos annihilates the FWLS Jonas Marik and its support with its massed Naval Autocannons and Naval Missiles. On the 12th October the Xanthos leaves the system not seen again for eight days when it reappears briefly in the Caph system before finally appearing in the Terra system.
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Lum, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
12th October 3065
Following weeks of prolonged heavy combat the Steel Vipers begin to pull back to their initial landing sites following a threat from the other force on Lum, Clan Jade Falcon, that if they remained the Jade Falcons would being assaulting Steel Viper claimed territory. Pleased with the supplies they have gained from the Snow Raven factories and the damage they have caused the Steel Viper Khan chooses to retreat instead of carrying on with the attack.
Without Hegira to cover their retreat however the Steel Vipers are forced to run the gauntlet of eleven Snow Rave WarShips that are parked around the planet ensuring that no-more Steel Vipers can land on the planet. Picking an area defended by the Avalanche, a Sovetskii-Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, and the Huninn, a Vincent Mk-42-class Corvette, the Steel Vipers hope to break past the two vessels with sheer massed numbers as everything launches off Lum at the same time and Steel Viper WarShips attack in space.
Everything appears to be going well until the Avalanche lashes out with its full destructive might at the Steel Viper ground force transports. Whether it was deliberate of just chance the result of the attack was devastating on the Steel Vipers as a Naval Laser Barrage hits Khan Perigrad Zalman’s DropShip annihilating the vessel its crew and passengers in a ball of flame.
Following a series of Trials Steel Viper saKhan Brett Andrews becomes Khan on the 22nd October and his first act is to promise the Snow Ravens that he will have revenge for the previous Khan’s death.
Brigadier Corporation Shipyard
Mackenzie, Independent Member
Free Worlds League
20th October 3065
In the early hours of the 20th October a unidentified four vessel flotilla entered the Mackenzie system. The four defending WarShips the Impavido, the first of the class of the same name, the FWLS Attica, a Zechetinu-class Corvette, the FWLS Haptopodar, a Zechetinu II-class Corvette and the FWLS Aeneas, an Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser. All moved out to intercept the unidentified group of vessels. With both groups moving in on each other the distance between the two armadas rapidly closed the defenders found three Zechetinu II-class Corvettes, the Acari, Scorpion and the Ixodida and a Impavido-class Destroyer, the Phrgia.
Without warning the unidentified WarShips opened fire destroying the Attica in a concentrated opening volley, the Corvette was torn to pieces by a myriad of Naval Weapons fire.
The Impavido and Aeneas moving close together covering each other from a cross-fire from the enemy Corvettes concentrated on the enemy Impavido, Phrgia, using their superior firepower to crush the destroyer quickly eliminating the most dangerous of their opponents. Unfortunately for the defenders their Zechetinu II-class Corvette, the Haptopodar, activated its Jump Drive and left the systems as soon as the enemy Zechetinu IIs moved in leaving the Defending two WarShips against five WarShips.
Instead of sticking around to fight the Acari, Scorpion and Ixodida poured on the speed heading for the shipyards. The Impavido able to match the Corvette’s speed gave chase while the slower Aeneas executed a dangerous inter-system jump reverting to real space just as the Corvettes were moving in on the Shipyards. Caught between a Destroyer and a Heavy Cruiser the Corvettes expected strategy would be to surrender however this was not on their mind. The Acari turned on the Impavido in an attempt to slow the Destroyer. The Ixodida charged at the Aeneas while the Scorpion continued on to the Shipyards.
Although the Impavido out massed the Acari by a ratio of almost three-to-one the Acari still carried a significant weapons punch and as it constantly tried to stay at maximum range firing capital missiles at the Impavido just outside the own maximum range of it big guns the fight was quite evenly matched for the first couple of minutes. After that however the Acari charged forward at full speed taking the Impavido gunners by surprise, this momentary surprise was enough for the Acari crew to ram their speeding Corvette into the Impavido destroying both vessels in a massive fireball, no survivors made it off either vessel although DropShips and aerospace fighters continued to fight on the battle was over there.
The Aeneas was a far superior to its opponent the Ixodida and following a brief exchange of firepower the Ixodida crew appeared to realise this and signalled their willingness to surrender. The Aeneas crew unwilling to kill their fellow Free Worlds League troops despite their betrayal moved alongside the Ixodida and one of the Heavy Cruiser’s DropShips began to move over to the vessel. The Ixodida crew had one last act of treachery to unveil however activating their K-F Jump Drive Core. With the vessels less than one hundred metres apart the Ixodida’s K-F Core interacted almost instantly with the Aeneas’s own K-F Core. Two active K-F Cores in close proximity means only one thing ninety-nine percent of the time and this occasion did not disappoint with both vessels destroyed by the resulting explosion.
The remaining Zechetinu II Scorpion continued onto the shipyards. Instead of capturing the shipyards the Scorpion had other plans opening fire on the Shipyard with four nuclear tipped White Shark and Barracuda Capital Missiles. The missiles detonated throughout the complex destroying the shipyards, three under construction Impavido-class Destroyers and the orbital factories. The Scorpion was not finished there however moving in on world of Mackenzie itself the Scorpion unleashed barrage after barrage of naval weapons fire and nuclear tipped missiles striking several places on the planet. Although the first strikes were targeted on the newly arrived Romanov’s Crusaders Mercenary Regiment destroying the mercenaries in a single strike the follow up strikes were targeted on Civilian centres and industrial zones. These strikes were meant of one thing destruction and they did just that killing millions instantly. For half an hour the Scorpion remained in orbit shooting down any DropShip that tried to escape and destroying every one of Mackenzie’s cities before leaving orbit and the system.
A week later FWL Humanitarian Relief forces arrived and found the world was beginning to fall into a nuclear winter such was the radiation level on the world. Of the billions of people that called the planet home only a couple of million were found huddled in sports arenas all suffering from the effects of radiation poisoning and shock. The Free Worlds League authorities ordered that Mackenzie be abandoned and all survivors to be evacuated. By the end of the month Mackenzie is no longer an inhabited world of the Free Worlds League with anyone refusing to leave forcefully removed by FWL Militia troops.
Andurien, Duchy of Andurien
Free Worlds League
24th October 3065
Starting on Andurien and quickly spreading to the rest of the Duchy forces loyal to the Humpherys family systematically destroy all Federal Troops on Andurien worlds. The Free Worlds League had been keeping the state under Federal Control since its last succession attempt but secretly the Humpherys family had built up a five Regiment strong force of troops loyal to them alone. The Fifth Free Worlds Legionaries recently transferred to Andurien, to cover the First Legionaries assault against Gibson, become the first casualty quickly followed by the Ninth Legionaries on the same planet as they face five Andurien regiments, the Andurien take no prisoners and refuse to allow the Legionaries to retreat safely.
Following this victory Dame Delma Humphrey gives all federal troops and personnel thirty-six hours to leave before she begins executions. When the Thirty-first Marik Militia refuse to leave Shiro III in the allotted time Delma Humphrey unleashed two of her regiments on the unit destroying it to the last man. With the Free Worlds League falling to pieces no-one attempts to stop Humphrey’s forces for now. Two days after driving out Federal troops from their nation the Duchy of Andurien land troops on the three worlds of the Mosiro Archipelago securing all three with little resistance and absorbing the tiny state.
Second Battle Armour Corps Command
Fletcher, Royce
Capellan March, Federated Suns
28th October 3065
Following months on the run from people they used to work for the remains of the Blackhearts Mercenary Regiment arrives on Fletcher on the 21st October, asking for sanctuary at the Star League Defence Force Compound before they are targeted by a faction from the Free Worlds League, other mercenaries or the Federated Suns.
With only a short delay time Colonel Wu Tsen Lo, the on hand Star League commander and commander of the Second Battle Armour Corps agrees to the grant the Blackhearts sanctuary. Placing a call to Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion who immediately travels to the world. Landing soon after Morgan immediately headed for the Blackhearts command DropShip to meet with Blackhearts commander Colonel Marcus Johnson. The word professional was sometimes overused to describe people who were nowhere near professional however Colonel Johnson and the entire Blackhearts were professional clean-cut soldiers. Morgan was given a full escort to the Commander’s wardroom and then the two men were left alone, for a few seconds they just looked at each other then Morgan spoke up “how bad is it in the Free Worlds League?â€
“Getting worse by the day they are tearing each other to pieces. That is why we are here. My people have no interest in getting involved in a Civil War however we have not ended out contract with them. We needed a safe place to regroup.†Johnson said explaining their actions but apologising for nothing.
“Understandable.†Morgan said quietly “Colonel your unit used to be know by a different name didn’t it?†Morgan said testing the boundaries the Blackhearts were former SLDF troops.
“Aye, but that was a long time ago, Commanding-General.†Johnson said “I’ve noticed that the new SLDF seems to be taking in a lot of mercenary commands to build itself back up. I’m not sure I like that strategy.â€
“We have not company stored any unit.†Morgan said slightly more defensively than he had meant to it was true however that a lot of the new SLDF were former mercenaries. “And we have only accepted mercenaries with impeccable records and standards. Allow me to be completely frank with you Colonel, the reason I came here is because I want the Blackhearts to rejoin the SLDF forming the core of what I hope will be a new SAS Division. Your unit has a direct tie to the Star League’s old Special Armed Service Division and your inclusion would be invaluable to my plans.â€
“What would our expected duties be? We are not what you could call line troops, our operations are more cloak and dagger.â€
“Of course. For now your unit would be assigned to the Focht War College training new Star League Recruits and protecting the Advisory Council. In time however I would expect your troops to become the Star League’s anti-terrorist/special operations unit supporting other units when it needed and finding and disposing of forces that are contrary to our goals like Free Skye, Free Capella organisations, the Black Dragons. You would have full support from the SLDF and house states but for the most part once you were given a mission you would be on your own.â€
“I would have to discuss this with the other members of the Blackhearts many are career mercenaries and I would not want to force anyone to do anything they did not want.â€
“Of course take the time you need Colonel, I will be here as long as you are perhaps longer. As a member unit of the new SLDF you will be assigned a Battle Armour Battalion as soon as possibly and all your equipment will be upgraded to Star League or Clan standard. And since your unit will be the core of a new Division, it will be Lieutenant-General Johnson.†Morgan said as he was leaving. Four days later the vote was in and the Blackhearts became members of the SLDF officially reverting to their old designation the Seventy-seventh Special Operations Group initially assigned to Tukayyid‘s defence and defence of the Star League Advisory Council.
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Second Battle Armour Corps Command
Fletcher, Royce
Capellan March, Federated Suns
4th November 3065
Just as the newly christened Seventy-seventh Special Operations Group are leaving the system the planetary defenders and the orbiting WarShip Covenant are put on high alert as two badly damaged Free Worlds League WarShips enter the system along with four Invader-class JumpShips. The Covenant’s sensors identify the vessels as the Sparta, a Zechetinu-class Corvette, and the Troy, a Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser. Both vessels are unaccounted for since the break up of the Free Worlds League and there is a worry that they are here to blame the Star League for not stopping the Free Worlds League’s fall by destroying the Covenant and killing the Commanding-General. A communication from the vessels request that a DropShip, the Golden Sabre, is allowed to land on the planet to allow direct communication with the Commanding-General. Morgan Hasek-Davion convinces the Davion planetary leaders to allow it and the DropShip travels in system.
Four days later on the 8th September the DropShip lands on the planet and a single Grand Titan BattleMech is escorted to the SLDF Command Bunker. Colonel Dame Clarisse Boyer commander of the First Knights of the Inner Sphere, also known as Gold Regiment, exit’s the BattleMech and travels inside to speak with Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion. As the Colonel entered Morgan nodded briefly she had fought on Huntress with the Star League Defence Force during Operation Bulldog, Morgan knew of her but had never spoken at length with her, she had always remained in Sir Paul Master’s shadow. “Welcome to Fletcher. If this is a request for aid in the Civil War that has erupted I regret to inform you that the Star League cannot get involved, the Free Worlds League withdrew from the SLDF before the outbreak of hostilities for us to interfere could be taken as an act of war and would open the door for the Lyran Alliance and Capellan Confederation to also invade.†Morgan said raising to his feet looking at Clarisse noticing that her uniform was tattered and battle-worn, even on the Hell that was Huntress the Knights had somehow kept nearly in impeccable condition.
“Sir, I am not here to request help in the Civil War, I believe we are beyond help.†She said grimly there was no pride in her words or confidence, just dejection the Knights always inspired confidence not the other way around.
“Well if you are pursuing the Blackhearts for their contract breach I must inform you that they have rejoined the SLDF.†Morgan said figuring that the Knights would want to try and find some justice in the midst’s of the civil war.
“We do not pursue the Blackhearts.†Clarisse said quietly, there was a slight edge to her voice indicating she knew of their contract breach and breach of honour but would do nothing about it, for now.
“Well then why are you here? This world is out with Free Worlds League authority.â€
“Which is why we have come here. Commanding-General, Sir Paul Masters sent us here with his dying breath.â€
“Masters is dead?†Morgan said his own voice hollow although he had found the founder of the Knights of the Inner Sphere to be annoying at times he had always been a sounding board for the SLDF on Huntress and had served as the first SLDF Ambassador to the Clans.
“Yes, he died six days ago when both our regiments were ambushed by the Fifth Free Worlds Guards, the Eighth Free Worlds Legionaries and the Tenth Marik Militia on Oriente. Although we were able to destroy or drive back all three units we knew more would come and that eventually we would fall. We evacuated the world coming here because we knew this would be your location.†She said to Morgan it sounded like she was giving a report to a superior officer, but he was not in her chain of command… then it hit him, he knew why she was here why the Knights were here. “Under orders from General Masters I present you with the four Battalions that remain of the Knights of the Inner Sphere and the WarShips Sparta and Troy two vessels that have agreed to join us. We would like to petition to join the Star League Defence Force.†She said making Morgan’s thoughts a reality suddenly he had been given an Elite regiment of warriors and two combat tested WarShips, doubling his navy’s strength.
“If I was to agree to this acceptance of your regiment we would still not strike at the Free Worlds League, you understand that we cannot break international law and I will not allow the Second Star League to fall for the same mistake the First tried to accomplish.â€
“I understand, sir, my people understand as well. We do not want our forces wasted in a civil war and we will not be targets to hate filled attacks. With the Star League we can do what Thomas Marik created us for, to protect the Inner Sphere from external and internal threats. Hopefully the Free World League will see the mistake it is making and someday the Knights can reform once more under the Marik banner but for now the future is with the Star League.†Morgan did not like the sound of a potentially rogue regiment being under his command however the Knights of the Inner Sphere were one of the Inner Sphere’s most elite units and he could not turn them away nor could he afford to loose two WarShips.
“I agree to your inclusion in the SLDF on a pro-tem basis Colonel. We will see how things progress and hopefully we will be able to work together.â€
“Understood†Clarisse said “thank you, sir.â€
“Thank Paul Masters and Thomas Marik, they created your regiments to serve the Inner Sphere. Although I don’t think they ever imagined that you would be serving the Inner Sphere quite like this I am glad to have you. And hope that your example can lead the Inner Sphere down a righteous path.†Morgan said, it was the closest thing he could do to a speech and noticed that it brought the Colonel back into the room slightly however she was still distant. A couple of days later Morgan took the Knights with him when he left for Kittery sending the two WarShips to Lyran and Federated Suns Shipyards for refit and repairs from battle damage.
Arcadia, Cavanaugh Theatre
Bolan Province, Lyran Alliance
18th-25th November 3065
En route out of the Lyran Alliance and back to their native Free Worlds League The Krushers Mercenary Regiment are forced to land on the world of Arcadia when a freak accident purges all drinkable water aboard their command JumpShip. In what should have been a simple supply operation The Krushers landed on Arcadia only to find the Second Donegal Guards RCT waiting for them, not only had the Donegal Guards been sent to intercept them but a Lyran Agent had caused the accident. With seven conventional regiments and a Mech Regiment supported by two Aerospace Wings against them The Krushers were heavily outgunned however Colonel Kirsten Marik refused to surrender her command to the Lyran Authorities and led her Regiment into the Arcadian Countryside intent on fighting in open ground away from population zones and with plenty of moving room. The Donegal Guards charged forward in the unpredictable style that set them apart from nearly every other Lyran Regiment however The Krushers heavier style of fighting with a preponderance of heavy machines with heavy guns made them more a match for the Lyran unit.
For six days The Krushers led the Lyrans through the Arcadian countryside smashing through any blockade set up to catch them. However on the morning of the 24th Lt. Colonel Jiri Rousset, the unit’s executive officer and husband to the unit’s commander, was badly injured when his BattleMech suffered a head breach. Unwilling to move her husband and risk killing him Kirsten ordered her Krushers to dig in and hold praying for a miracle that she doubted would be coming.
In the early hours of the 25th however their miracle arrived in the form of the Sixth Marik Militia, under the command of Marshal Jeremy Brett, supported by the Eagle-class Frigates Tristram and Bedevere and the massive Thera-class Carrier Sardis. The Sixth begin landing around the Second Donegal hammering them from all sides securing the aerospace around Arcadia quickly using the Sardis‘ massive fighter screen.
In three short hours the Second Donegal Guards RCT are hammered into nothing by the Sixth Militia and the remaining Krushers however at a dear cost. During the fighting a Lyran Mech breaches The Krushers lines and strafes the command tents with fire killing the already injured Jiri Rousset. Then just as Marshal Brett arrives to rescue his sister-in-law Kirsten a Lyran Fafnir Assault BattleMech beheads Kirsten’s Albatross with a headshot from one of the Mech’s massive Heavy Gauss Rifles killing Kirsten Marik instantly. Marshal Brett pulls his unit, the remaining Krushers and the three WarShips from the Lyran Alliance in short order ensuring they are no longer at risk of attack from Lyran authorities. The Krushers under the command of Kirsten’s three children return to Augustine and their families holdings to begin the next phase of their civil war.
Illium Naval Engineering Shipyards
Ionus, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
29th November 3065
Construction site of one of the biggest WarShips ever built the Thera-class Carrier before the break-up of the Free Worlds League security around and inside the yards would have been nearly impossible to break however with the break-up of the league and the constant fighting security had become slightly more lax. In fact the security had become so lax that three members of the Capellan Confederation’s Maskirovka (Intelligence) command to infiltrate the shipyards. This is the farthest reaching Capellan Intelligence Operation ever conducted from the Capellan realm and is so important the Capellan superiors allow their agents to remain in the shipyards posing as engineers and designers for nearly a month before acting. This latitude in operations shows the Confederation being more lax with operatives than they had ever been in their entire history.
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Marik-Stewart Commonwealth/Skye Province
Free Worlds League/Lyran Alliance border
5th December 3065
With the Free Worlds League in turmoil and the recent operation against the Lyran Alliance by Jeremy Brett the Skye Province launches an unauthorised attack against the Marik worlds of Alula Australis, Zosma, Wing, Rochelle and Uhura. Only Uhura fell without incident the others attempted to resist the Lyran troops offensive.
On Rochelle the Fourth Skye Rangers RCT encounter the Eleventh Atrean Dragoons Regiment routing the Marik-Stewart unit in less than six hours. The commander of the Fourth Leutnant-General William Harrison Von Frisch allows the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth unit to retreat following some heavy fighting.
On Wing the Third Tikonov Republican Guards, which have thrown in with the Free Skye Movement of the Lyran Alliance, encounter the Thirtieth Marik Militia. The Thirtieth had joined the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth on the outbreak of the Civil War and was fully prepared for the attack but not the ferocity of the Tikonov Republicans the Thirtieth stood their ground to the Lyran troops and were annihilated to the man by the 10th December.
On Zosma the Tamar Cavaliers personally loyal to Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner assaulted the Steel Guard of the Duchy of Oriente which had refused a recall order defending the world in case of such a Lyran Attack. Following a game of cat-and-mouse the numerically superior but less experienced Steel Guard are quickly crushed by the Free Skye troops with the few warriors taken as Prisoners of War thrown in planetary prisons with common criminals. A Reinforced Battalion supported by a Battle Armour Company then jumped to Alula Australis and beat the Haematite Guard of the Duchy of Oriente, another unit which had refused a recall order. All captured words begin the indoctrination process placing Lyran/Skye friendly governors in charge of the world. The Free Skye forces also make sure local militia forces are raised with known Lyran supporters placed in command positions. This ensures that the main Lyran force can be redeployed and that if the Free Worlds League forces return they will face armed opposition not just a hostile government.
Hesperus II, Skye Province
Lyran Alliance
12th December 3065
Free Skye Movements actions did not stop on the Lyran/Free Worlds League border however. Free Skye had always been about freeing the Isle of Skye from the Lyran Alliance’s yoke and the only way to do that was attack the forces within the Lyran Alliance. The only way to do this was securing Hesperus II, site of the largest Inner Sphere BattleMech factory, and Skye itself. While the under strength First Skye Jaegers dropped onto the nearly undefended Skye. The Seventeenth and Twenty-second Skye Rangers assaulted the Under strength Fifteenth and Thirty-sixth Lyran Guards RCT on Hesperus II beginning the Fifteenth Battle of Hesperus II. Only Hesperus II’s impressive defences allow the two Lyran Guard units to hold against the driven Skye Ranger units. Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion places a call to the Gray Death Legion Mercenary Regiment on nearby Glengarry to assist on Hesperus II however the mercenaries will be unable to mobilize until January.
Illium Naval Engineering Shipyards
Ionus, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
25th December 3065
Capellan Confederation Agents who have been in place for nearly a month operating under the noses of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Security guards act firstly by allowing two unmarked, unregistered, DropShips to dock with the shipyards. The DropShips do not unload any cargo or personnel just sit there, the Capellan Agents meanwhile set of dozens of fire, intruder and malfunction alarms keeping station security busy and buying them time for phase two. In the early afternoon they detonate several explosives vaporizing a half finished Eagle-class Frigate docked at the yards.
In the confusion surrounding the explosions the Capellan WarShip crew and marines charge from their DropShips to the Thera-class Delos which is nearing completion in one of Illium’s largest shipyard docks. Gaining control of the lightly defended vessel quickly they use the vessel’s turreted conventional weapons to blast away the construction scaffolding before igniting the main manoeuvring thrusters moving into open space.
In open space the defending WarShips Kay, an Eagle-class Frigate damaged in combat earlier that year moving in for repairs and refit, the Kustarachnae, a Zechetinu II-class Corvette, and the Menellaus, an Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser all move to block the Delos’ escape. Without a full crew or fighter support the Delos has no chance against one vessel let alone three however suddenly around the stolen carrier appear three Capellan Feng-Huang-class Cruisers the Franko Martell, Aleisha Kris and Sundermann Rhys. These three vessels immediately engage the three lighter Marik-Stewart vessels creating a wall of WarShips, fighters and DropShips around the Delos as the Carrier brings it K-F Drive on-line ready to leave the system.
The Kustarachnae, smallest of the defenders is cut apart quickly by the massed firepower of the three Capellan Cruisers and their massed fighter and DropShip screen while the Menellaus finds itself fighting an internal conflict as ninety-six battle armour troopers from the Franko Martell board the vessel and attempt to seize the vessel. The Kay attempts to ram the Delos denying it to the Capellans however the Aleisha Kris intercepts it ramming the lighter Frigate destroying both vessels in a massive fireball leaving no survivors. With two vessels and one boarded the Capellans have time to recall their DropShips and Fighters as the Free Worlds League WarShip forces have been taken care of. As the Menellaus crew continue in their attempt to fight off their Capellan boarders the two remaining Feng-Huang Cruisers and the Delos Jump from the system leaving the Capellan Marines to capture or death. The fanatical Capellan Marines continue to fight aboard the Menellaus despite the loss of any hope of rescue or escape they fight to the vessels main magazines and detonate a bomb consuming the vessel in a horrifying explosion.
The two Capellan Cruisers and their Thera-class prize travel back to the Capellan Confederation using uninhabited systems to ensure they come across no Marik-Stewart Commonwealth or other Free Worlds League nation’s patrols. Although the loss of a cruiser is a heavy loss for the Capellan’s small WarShip fleet the capture of a Thera, one of the largest modern WarShips, from such a long distance is seen as a massive victory by the Capellan people.
And so ends 3065, a bit short on depth but not action, hope you enjoyed
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Into another year
3066
Royal Compound
Tian-Tan, St Ives
St Ives Compact
1st January 3066
Just as 3065 ended on a high note for one of the Inner Sphere’s Capellan cultures 3066 began badly for people of another nation with the death of Candice Allard-Liao, Duchess of St Ives and Prime Minister of the St Ives Compact. Officials confirm that Candice finally succumbed to old age and died of natural causes at the age of seventy-eight. Instead of a large ceremony the Allard-Liao family hold a small ceremony on St Ives to say goodbye to the their mother and founder of the St Ives Compact burring her beside her husband and great love Justin Allard, the former Federated Suns Intelligence Chief. Duke Kai Allard Liao, Candice’s eldest son, assumes the position of Prime Minister of St Ives and inherits the title Duke of St Ives. Kai like his mother before him vows never to allow the Capellan Confederation gain hold of St Ives again.
As Kai takes over leadership of the Compact he turns day-to-day control of the St Ives Compact Military over to Colonel Tamas Rubinsky, former-executive officer of Rubinsky’s Light Horse Mercenary Regiment, a long term employee of the Compact. Tamas was injured during the Black May attacks during the First St Ives Conflict with the Capellan Confederation and fell in love with Kai’s younger sister Cassandra. The appointment of a mercenary to such a powerful position in the compact suggests that the Rubinsky Light Horse, still employed with the Compact, may be on their way to becoming House troops.
Glengarry
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
8th January 3066
As the Gray Death Legion Mercenary Regiment assemble on their Homeworld of Glengarry preparing to move to Hesperus II to try and stop the Free Skye Movement the First and Second Tikonov Republican Guards Regiments drop onto the world and assault the Legion. As is the Legion tradition the Mercenaries refuse to fight a stand-up battle against the numerically superior Free Skye Forces the Legion breaks and begins to disappear into the Glengarry wilderness preparing to wage a guerrilla warfare campaign. Unfortunately for the Legion their commander Colonel Lori Kalmer-Carlyle is killed when a gauss rifle strikes her Highlander’s head killing her instantly. Lori’s husband, founder of the Legion and Baron von Glengarry Grayson Death Carlyle comes out of retirement to rejoin the Legion and make sure his Regiment, and his world, is not destroyed by Free Skye and that there is no leaving the Lyran Alliance. Grayson Death Carlyle is known as one of the premier military minds of the modern age and Free Skye know his is a major threat to their plans.
saKhan Canin Rosse’s Personal Quarters
Severn Leroux, Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser
Deep Periphery en route to Nova Cat’s Den
14th January 3066
Sitting in his quarters aboard the Severn Leroux saKhan Canin Rosse was completely bored for the last several days he had been buried in dozens of reports from the Nova Cat’s Den on the progress of Clan Nova Cat’s supplanted population. Two days before the Thunderbolt and Khan Santin West had rendezvoused with the Severn Leroux. The Thunderbolt was travelling to the Clan Homeworlds to direct a Nova Cat offensive to take control of all of Barcella and deal with some Clan Council meetings, Canin would take charge of matters in the Nova Cat‘s Den while the Khan was away.
There was a chime at the door and Canin looked up all day he had been left alone by the WarShip crew and the members of the Watch, as they analysed the new OmniMechs, even Yvonne had left him alone he’d noticed that she’d been slightly distant since leaving Arc-Royal. Canin suspected that she was slightly homesick as she had seen her family, Canin had seen freeborn members of the Clans exhibit the same characteristics. “Come in†he called the door opened and in stepped Yvonne “well hello†Canin said smiling standing from the small desk.
“saKhan†Yvonne said stepping in the door closed behind her.
“Yvonne, you don’t have to be so formal not when it is just us.â€
“Perhaps I do today.†Yvonne said looking down crossing the small room to the bed sitting down.
“What is wrong?†Canin asked moving over sitting beside her putting an arm around her, a tear was running down her cheek.
“Something has happened.†Yvonne said quietly “something great, but terrible at the same time.â€
“How can something be great and terrible? Speak plainly, it is the Nova Cat Custom.†Canin said slightly sharply he had gotten used to her occasional contraction and had even used them when he was alone with her, however, he hated it when she went off speaking of something he had no idea about.
“Can I ask you something, personal?†She asked a strange question for a wife to ask her husband but she had learned the limitations of what she could get from Canin.
“Of course.†Canin said quietly kissing her gently on the cheek, Yvonne smiled as tears were running down her cheeks.
“What is your beliefs about freeborn children and family?†Yvonne asked although they had spoken about their own childhood when in private they had never spoken about expanding their own family. Yvonne knew that trueborns like Canin rarely had time for freeborn children or were capable of the natural way of procreation, the Genetic Engineering of the Clans made a large percentage of the warriors produced sterile.
“I don’t know†he said looking away slightly as he used a contraction of his own “I suppose they have their place. The Clans would never survive without freeborn filling the roles of the technician, scientist and merchant castes. Freeborn children are a by-product of the freeborn life.â€
“So what you are saying is a trueborn would never have a place with Freeborn children?†Yvonne said looking at Canin he saw a slight taste of anger in her eyes but didn’t understand why the Clans had always placed Trueborns higher than Freeborns, it was a fact of life.
“Aff, although many Trueborns who fail to become warriors have contact with Freeborns but a Trueborn warrior has little contact with them, unless they were to be warriors in the Clan.†Canin said plainly rarely did Freeborns become warriors in the Nova Cat Touman and they never could reach high ranks of the Clans due to their Freeborn status and their ineligibility of gaining a Bloodname. Yvonne’s reaction shocked Canin slightly as she pushed him off and walked across the room leaning heavily on the wall crying. “Yvonne, what is wrong? You may be a freeborn but you are important to me and our Clan.â€
“Well, I have something to tell you that could change your perception of Freeborns and their position.†Yvonne said through her sobbing.
“Why?†Canin said bluntly although he respected her and her capabilities in a Mech and in administration he wondered how she could persuade him that Freeborns could ever be his equal. Although they were married Canin didn’t even consider Yvonne his equal.
“I am pregnant.†Yvonne said looking over at Canin who raised to his feet and crossed to her reaching out to her.
“Really?†Canin asked sounding surprised.
“Are you angry?†Yvonne asked worried that perhaps their relationship had progressed to far for it to be comfortable with the Nova Cats. It was hard enough keeping their marriage secret in the Clan Homeworlds she could never hide the fact she was pregnant and would not terminate the unborn child, her child, their child.
“No†Canin whispered shakily “no†he repeated more confidently touching her arm “I am just a little shocked.†Canin said “and I do not know how the rest of the Nova Cats will react.â€
“The Nova Cats accepted our marriage but how about this? It takes this further than we ever expected. I don’t want my child to be hated by our people.†Yvonne said she had seen how the Clan Trueborns sometimes treated Freeborns and she could not have her children treated like that, she would rather leave the Nova Cats than allow that to happen, she would even leave Canin to protect the child.
“They will accept it as I have.†Canin said solemnly turning to look at her seeing she wasn’t convinced especially with his reaction. Canin crossed to her and wrapped his arms around her holding her close to him “Yvonne, we will get through this together and we will bring a beautiful child into this world.†He said kissing her forehead, whatever happened his child would be well cared for and he would love it as much as he loved Yvonne, even if he didn’t know how to look after a child he would do his best and the Nova Cats would adapt or lose him, he was committed to his path, strangely walking away from the Clan for Yvonne and his child did not seem foreign despite the difficulties it could cause.
Press Conference
Quatre Belle Naval Facility
Quatre Belle, Outworlds Alliance
28th January 3066
The Quatre Belle Naval Facility was a shipyard based in the Outworlds Alliance system of the same name, the years had not been good to the facility and it had fallen into deep disrepair with the Outworlds Alliance barely able to get maintenance facilities operation let alone construction facilities. The Entrance of the Snow Ravens had allowed them to bring on-line a Corax OmniFighter Construction facility and the Snow Ravens were beginning to help bring Quatre Belle online in a more complete way the first step of that was the designing and completion of a new Fighter Carrier DropShip done entirely at Quatre Belle between the joint work of Snow Raven and Outworlds Alliance engineers and scientists.
Following completion of the vessel and successful trials President Mitchell Avellar had called for a press conference. Standing at the podium against the backdrop of a darkened view port President Avellar addressed the gathered media. “Ladies and Gentlemen, peoples of the Alliance and neighbouring nations today I plan on unveiling a new class of DropShip that has been designed and constructed solely at this facility however first I would like to introduce the Outworlds Alliance partner in this endeavour and other projects, Khan Lynn McKenna, leader of Clan Snow Raven.†He said there was a collective gasp as the Snow Raven Khan walked in from a side room wearing her full ceremonial uniform with Snow Raven feathered shoulder pads. “When the Snow Ravens first appeared on our borders we greeted them with guarded respect. The Snow Ravens respected out pilots skills and offered us a technical exchange for supplies which ended in the Development of the Corax OmniFighter. Following that project I asked Khan McKenna if her Clan would be interested in working at this facility, a facility that served the Star League army before it left to head for the worlds that would become the Clan Homeworlds. That project has brought many areas of this facility on-line and brought the Outworlds Alliance the Raven-class Aerospace DropShip.†Mitchell said as the glass behind him lightened to show the newly launched DropShip, even Khan McKenna looked surprised at the name the vessel had been given, she had not expected such an honour. “Using Star League-era technologies the Raven-class DropShip is based on the Titan-class DropShip previously launched by the Star League.†Mitchell said the similarities in the designs were unmistakable a long aerospace craft with large wings and large launch doors on three decks covering the length of the vessel “although the weapons had been upgraded since the original vessel the vessels operate quite similarly. Also since we worked with the Snow Ravens on this vessel we decided to issue it with a aerospace complement of thirty fighters allowing it to carry five squadrons of fighters or three OmniFighter Stars of Snow Raven warriors.†Lynn McKenna nodded in appreciation although she knew the vessels capabilities as well as Mitchell she still enjoyed looking at the craft. “This vessel will serve our forces in the coming years as we shore up our defences and stop the damaging pirate attacks that endanger our civilians. Khan McKenna would you like to say anything to the people of the Outworlds Alliance and the Inner Sphere beyond?†Mitchell asked turning to the Clan Khan, for a second he thought she would refuse however the Snow Raven warrior nodded and took the podium allowing Mitchell to step aside.
“When we came to the Periphery and the Inner Sphere borders we did not expect to find honour and aerospace skill to match our own.†She began stating the belief of the Snow Ravens that they were the best in the naval arts, among the Clans only the Ice Hellions came close in an Aerospace Fighter or the Nova Cats in a WarShip and even then it was only on a good day. “We planned to take territory of our own. Instead we found allies in the Outworlds Alliance, a people who shared our belief that Aerospace Fighters, DropShips and WarShips were the superior force in the galaxy and that to stop an invasion force you hit them first in space instead of letting them land. We were honoured when the Outworlds Alliance named the Corax in our honour and again we find ourselves honoured with the launch of the Raven. I wish for us to continue this relationship of cooperation and friendship as we travel towards the end of this century and into the future.†She looked to Mitchell who nodded his agreement with her announcement “this morning a Snow Raven WarShip with supplies entered the Outworlds Alliance. The vessel will travel the Outworlds Alliance helping upgrade the defences of each world and distribute supplies that will improve education and health throughout the Alliance. Also this morning Clan Snow Raven agreed to help bring the Quatre Belle facility fully on-line enhancing the Outworlds Alliance’s abilities to repair and construct more DropShips and JumpShips.†Although the media were not as polite as Lynn McKenna had been and were suspicious of her Clan’s intentions she handled the situation extremely well and as promised a Snow Raven WarShip began moving through the Outworlds Alliance improving the nations infrastructure and defences shoring up people‘s belief in their leadership and the Snow Raven’s good intensions.
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New Canton, Styk, Old Kentucky, Campertown
Sarna Commonality, Capellan Confederation
12th February 3066
In retaliation for the damage done at Illium Shipyards in the Ionus system forces of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth attack four worlds of the Capellan Confederation finding light defences and doing moderate damage on all and capturing various supplies intended for the Capellan military machine on three of the worlds. On New Canton however they encounter the Racicre River Raiders Regiment and the Tenth Battle Armour Battalion of the Star League Defence Force. The SLDF troops give the Marik-Stewart troops a severe beating driving them off and causing over two battalions worth of damage to the former-Free Worlds League troops. This victory for the SLDF makes a point that New Canton is off-limits to aggressors. The Capellan Confederation attempt to gain control of the salvage taken by the SLDF troops however General Harry Sanders points out the SLDF are not mercenaries and they will keep their own salvage.
First Royal Guard RCT Command Complex
Tharkad, Asgard, Mount Wotan
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
19th February 3066
Sneaking out his small room in the First Royal Guard command complex Hauptmann Alexander Carlyle headed for the Mechbay, since the outbreak of hostilities in Skye Province and more recently on Glengarry Alex had lost contact with his family. Despite repeated requests to be allowed to join the Gray Death Legion, and his family, on Glengarry Alex had found every request rejected, the last at the highest level, so using his connections he had arranged transport off Tharkad and back to Glengarry the LAAF would probably imprison him for going Absent Without Leave (AWOL) but Alex was beyond caring. “Herr, Hauptmann!†Someone called to him as he entered the Mechbay, Alex recognized the voice and turned to see First Leutnant Caroline Harper commander of his scout lance, they had become close recently and of all the people he would be abandoning he would likely miss her the most. “Surprised to see you up this late sir, I thought you were not on late duty tonight.â€
“I’m not just some personal work to do on my Mech, First Leutnant, wouldn’t want trouble with it on the field.†Alex said smiling heading for his BattleMech standing near the entrance to the bay, unlike many of the members of the Royal Guard he owned his Mech and because of this he had to perform much of the maintenance himself or with favours from the techs.
“No, sir†she said matching his pace step for space as they approached Alex’s seventy ton Archer. “Any news from home, sir?†Caroline asked.
“Caroline?†Alex said dryly, he hated being called sir every two seconds especially by people he knew. In the Legion it had never been this difficult, even when he had been left in charge during the last Skye revolt the Legionaries still just called him Alex, sometimes the Glengarry-born members would call him sire, because of his father’s position, but rarely was there a sir.
“Yes, sir†she said immediately.
“Drop the ‘sir‘ we are part of the same company and there are no superior’s about.â€
“Yes, sir, of course sire.†Caroline said smiling, her last use of his title caught him by surprise but he guessed she was being sarcastic. “The only thing is I don’t know how much longer I will be calling you sir.†She said Alex stopped dead and looked over at her for a moment wondering if she suspected anything.
“You going somewhere, Leutnant? Or were you promoted without my knowing?†He said brushing her rank epaulets on the shoulders of her uniform, they were still Leutnant ranking stripes.
“Unfortunately no promotion today, sir. As for going somewhere I wondered if you were the one going somewhere, sire.†Alex spun to look at her again, the use of his title completely throwing his thought's into chaos but Caroline was giving nothing away.
“Just to my Mech†Alex said wondering towards his Mech again “why would you say I was going somewhere?â€
“Please don’t treat me like a fool." she pleaded "your family and your regiment are in danger. Anyone could see you are itching to help them.â€
“I was ordered not to leave the base, my leave request has not been granted and my resignation letter has been rejected by the Archon herself. What could I do?“ Alex said continuing to walk hoping Caroline would go, he hoped he wouldn’t have to knock her out or worse. “And if I was leaving to help them.†Alex said suddenly wondering if there was another way out of this by all but admitting he was about to head home against orders, the Archon’s orders at that, “would you stop me?â€
“No, sir†Caroline said, Alex suddenly felt a rush of emotion and gratitude, however Caroline was raising a small communicator to her mouth “Condition Alpha.†Alex looked at her again his arms raised ready for a fight just then three Mechs stepped from their alcoves and a hover APC rounded the corner from deep within the Mechbay. “We are coming with you. All the machines are family owned Parsons, Lewis and Cole.†She said pointing to the three Mechs in turn, there were all members of his company. “The APC is borrowed but we will leave it at the spaceport.†She said as the APC stopped beside them “your Archer is powered and ready for move. We sent a message to the central computer informing them that your lance was escorting a security patrol into Asgard.†Caroline said in rapid fire succession “sir, we are ready when you are.â€
“You’re throwing your commissions away!†Alex said loudly looking at her it wasn’t a shout but it was way louder than he had meant. “The Archon could throw you all in prison with me, if Free Skye don’t kill us, she might even throw us in prison anyway. And you‘ll be dispossessed.†Katherine Steiner-Davion was not known as the most forgiving of leaders and the threat of being dispossessed could turn any MechWarrior‘s mind.
“Well sir, we will be in good company either way. We’re coming. Friends are more important than stupid orders from a power-mad boss.†Caroline said suddenly shocked by what she had said the Royal Guards were always fanatically loyal to their Archon and Caroline had just shown that she was in no way supportive of her Archon “we need to go and after this I will definitely need the Legion‘s help.†Caroline said climbing into the APC. Alex decided not to argue anymore climbing aboard his Archer, sure enough it was fully operational and they were not stopped until they reached the Spaceport. Even then they were able to convince the guards they were checking security inside the Spaceport in preparation for the Archon’s visit. Then quietly they moved aboard the DropShip and left Tharkad meeting a JumpShip just outside orbit leaving the system as quickly as possible via a pirate point. If Alex had left alone without clearance they would likely have been shot down however because of his people’s actions they had been able to slip away. Alex knew that he would never be able to pay them back, and could get them killed in this crazy possibly lost mission but was glad to have them with him, now all they had to do was find his parents, save the Gray Death Legion and stop the Skye Region breaking from the Alliance. If they helped stop Free Skye maybe the Archon would be lenient with sentences.
Rousset-Marik Mansion, Augustine
Rousset-Marik Alliance
Former-Free Worlds League Territory
21st February 3066
Following the defeat on New Canton to the SLDF and the failure to really repay the Capellan Confederation for the stealing of the Delos the three children of Kirsten Marik lead the challenge to Corrine Marik and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth by breaking away taking several worlds with them to form the Rousset-Marik Alliance. A nation dedicated to the re-establishment of the Parliament and the Free Worlds League as a singular nation, immediately the Duchy of Tamarind support under Duchess Therese Marik and Jeremy Brett support their nations legitimacy and their goal. Kirsten Marik’s eldest child Ana Marik takes over as Duchess of Augustine and leader of the new nation. The other two children Jonas Rousset-Marik and Alys Rousset-Marik handle the military and public matters of the new nation.
Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission Headquarters
Galatean City, Galatea
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
28th February 3066
Before the Wolf’s Dragoons shot to prominence and gained the world of Outreach in the 3030s Galatea in the Lyran Alliance’s volatile Skye Province was known as the Mercenaries Star. The closest thing mercenaries could call home and a world that they could make contracts to serve any of the Inner Sphere or Periphery nations. When the Dragoons turned Outreach into the centre of Mercenary trade in the Inner Sphere Galatea lost its prominence with almost everyone going to Outreach although low-grade mercenaries continued to find work on the hiring halls on Galatea it was decidedly second-rate compared to Outreach.
Then in 3065 the Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission (MRBC) founded and supported by the Wolf’s Dragoons but no-longer controlled by the mercenaries announced that they would return to Galatea and build a new Headquarters there in the Capital Galatean City with the Wolf’s Dragoons and Lyran Alliance’s blessing.
The opening of a new Headquarters tower on Galatea sets the MRBC completely separate from the Wolf’s Dragoons although they still keep a major presence on Outreach because Outreach was still the home to ninety percent of the Inner Sphere’s Mercenary Trade. With a new hiring hall on Galatea the MRBC hopes to diversify of Mercenary Trade and raise the profile of more mercenary units.
First two months down, hope you enjoy
any comments, questions feel free to ask here or on the Q&A page
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Castle Robinson, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Suns
4th March 3066
Following a stroke the year before Duke James Sandoval dies on Robinson inside his castle surrounded by nearly his whole family. As is tradition his son Field Marshal Baron Tarncred Sandoval, already commander of the Draconis March for several months, now officially inherits the title of Duke of Robinson. The people of Robinson begin a year long mourning for their lost Duke and James Sandoval’s body is laid in state for millions to see over the entire year including several DCMS Commanders that had faced him and his forces over the years.
Breed, Raman PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
17th March 3066
Hearing of the death of the Draconis March’s Duke the Twenty-second Benjamin Regulars Regiment of the DCMS attack Breed attempting to take the strategically valuable world. Although almost completely combat inexperienced and using over fifty percent advanced technologies the First Chisholm’s Raiders of the AFFS defend Breed taking over a Battalion of Mech losses and nearly a combined regiment of other forces in losses before driving back the DCMS force. The defence of Breed is hailed as a victory by the AFFS because of their continued hold on the world but in material losses it is certainly a DCMS victory.
Glengarry Highland Wilderness
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
22nd March 3066
Following more than two months of roughing it in the Glengarry Highlands the Gray Death Legion Mercenary Regiment hear that the Tikonov Republican Guards are rounding up hundreds of civilians in preparations for executions due to the publics continued support of the Lyran Alliance, the Gray Death Legion and Grayson Death Carlyle. Unwilling to allow this brutal act to be carried out against his citizens Grayson Carlyle hatches a daring plan.
Hearing that the Tikonov Guards were using the Mag-Lev trains, that criss-crossed the planet’s surface, to move around their prisoners the Gray Death Legion would strike at several stations along the route taking the prisoners off the trains in a move inspired by Grayson’s son’s defence of the world in the late 3050s. At the same time Grayson would lead a combined arms Battalion into the capital Dunkeld as a diversion as a Platoon of Battle Armour equipped troopers broke in and killed the Tikonov Guards commanders in a Head-hunter attack inspired by the Clan Wolf attacks during the Initial Clan Invasion.
The first part of the plan went like a dream with the Legion evacuating over one thousand innocent prisoners from the Free Skye forces. The Second part of the operation went well for a start as the Tikonov forces followed the Legion battalion leaving the defences weakened however fell apart when Grayson Death Carlyle was killed by a stray autocannon to his Marauder’s head. A veteran commander who had survived battles with enemies from across the Inner Sphere and beyond from the Clans killed in an instant showing that no-one was invincible. With the death of their founder and commander the rest of the battalion fell into a rage and destroyed well over two battalions of Tikonov Guards troops as all Tikonov marked forces are seen as hostile. Unfortunately more Tikonov forces arrive quickly surrounding and destroying the remaining Grey Death Mechs wiping out the remains of the force.
Fortunately for the now heavily weakened Legion the Head-hunter attack went perfectly killing three Kommondants, one Lt Colonel and one Colonel in a perfectly executed raid. This attack stopped the Tikonov Guards pursuing the Legionaries as they disappeared back into the Highlands. For now the Legion was safe but without any of the ‘old guard’ to command them some began questioning if they could survive this and if continuing was worth it, perhaps the Legion’s legendary luck was all used up.
Imperial Palace, Imperial City
Kagoshima Prefecture, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
27th March 3066
Deep in the Imperial Palace Grounds on the capital of the Draconis Combine Marianna Kurita, Coordinator Hohiro Kurita’s wife, gives birth to the couple’s first child Vincent preparing a clear line of succession for once Hohiro is gone. Vincent’s birth is kept secret from the Draconis Combine public for several months protecting him and his mother from any Black Dragon attacks and ensuring that Vincent will be physically capable of assuming the mantle of Coordinator.
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Fronc
Fronc Reaches
6th April 3066
The New Colony Region had wanted its independence almost since its creation by the Magistracy of Canopus and Taurian Concordat. The abortive attempt at independence by the Colonial Marshals cost the Magistracy and the Concordat their leaders however the New Colony Regions were still under the thumb of the two nearby Periphery nations. In April 3066 however this changed following the Magistracy’s occupation of the world of Detroit, site of a Capellan Confederation BattleMech factory, the Magistracy of Canopus recognised the New Colony Region as an independent nation and cut it loose. The Capellan Confederation, knowing their BattleMech factory was safe also recognised the nation soon after. The loss of access to the Detroit facility and with all the money invested in New Colony Region close to being lost/wasted the Taurian Concordat resisted the move however by the end of April an angered Taurian Concordat also recognised the New Colony Region which had chosen to call itself the Fronc Reaches. With the Colonial Marshals and several small mercenary units to defend them the Fronc Reaches began to look for new worlds to colonise and for ways to enhance their new nation.
Zion, Oriente Protectorate
Former Free Worlds League
11th April 3066
Following several months of negotiations Zion Province decided to join the Duchy of Oriente in an alliance creating the Oriente Protectorate. With a new nation on covering a large swath of its borders the Capellan Confederation decided to test their defences sending the Second McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry Regiment supported by Ambermarie’s Highlanders to Zion itself. Landing on Zion in forces they found the Third Free Worlds Guards still serving the people of Zion despite the fact the Free Worlds League was no longer a nation. The two Capellan units dropped on Zion in force dropping directly from their DropShips onto the battlefield around the Free Worlds Guards. In an eight hour campaign the Capellans destroyed the defenders of Zion executing the survivors and taking over a Battalion’s worth of salvage before leaving the world.
Nova Cat Watch Base
Tortuga Prime, Nova Cat’s Den
13th April 3066
A Diamond Shark trade convoy arrives and with them are seventeen warriors of Clan Cloud Cobra’s Rossei Cloister. These Cloud Cobra warriors claim a vision has sent them to join the Nova Cats and following seventeen trials of possession against the local Second Watch Cluster garrison force the Cloud Cobra warriors prove they are worthy of being Nova Cat Warriors. They request to join Xi Galaxy and are granted permission by saKhan Canin Rosse, Xi Galaxy had been home to a contingent of Nova Cat warriors that were members of the Rossei Cloister for years putting the Cloud Cobra Rossei members with them made perfect sense to Canin.
Meanwhile Canin’s executive officer in Delta Galaxy Star Colonel Jal Steiner, the man who had brought the Rossei Cloister beliefs to the Nova Cats in the first place challenged and defeated Xi Galaxy’s commander Galaxy Commander Elianna Deleportis in a Trial of Position making Jal Steiner commander of the Galaxy. With an influx of new experience warriors all using front-line equipment saKhan Canin Rosse ordered a reorganisation of the Nova Cat Touman and ordered Xi Galaxy to upgrade fully to a front-line Galaxy honouring the addition of the new Rossei Cloister and Jal Steiner’s new command.
Iran, Rousset-Marik Alliance
Former Free Worlds League
20th April 3066
Newly appointed Captain-General of the Rousset-Marik Alliance Duke Jonas Rousset-Marik takes the rebuilt Krushers to Iran headquarters of the Iran Corporation one of the widest spanning corporations in the former-Free Worlds League. There he originally intended to engage the Seventh Free Worlds Legionaries based there however found the commander of the unit more than happy to work with him in defending Iran against the Third Marik Militia Captain-General Corrine Marik of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth had sent to reinforce the Legionaries.
Working together they secure Iran for the Rousset-Marik Alliance and Jonas is able to report to his older sister that they have also secured a new Regiment for their nation much to the pleasure of Ana Marik and the anger of Corrine Marik. Unfortunately the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth has lost a lot of forces in the fighting and is severely weakened unwilling to attack Iran in a long bloody campaign Corrine Marik leaves the world in the hands of the tiny Rousset-Marik Alliance.
Hyades Cluster, Dark Cloud Nebula
Taurus System
Taurian Concordat
25th April 3066
Taurian Concordat ground controllers get into a massive panic when an Overlord-class DropShip belonging to the Fighting Urukhai mercenaries enter Taurus system and begin to make a fast burn to planet. Surprising the ground Controllers the Fighting Urukhai making it through the nebula and asteroid rings without assistance from a Taurian guide ship and begin heading straight for Taurus. The Fighting Urukhai a well-known Federated Commonwealth Mercenary Regiment could be under Federated Suns contract and the Taurian defenders decide to take no chances ordering the vessel destroyed the Urukhai DropShip is swiftly destroyed before it reaches the atmosphere of Taurus. At the Nadir Jump Point a Urukhai JumpShip informs the Taurians that the DropShip carried their negotiating team and that now the Taurian Concordat had made an enemy before leaving the system. The Taurian ground controllers pride themselves in a job well done defending Taurus without a single loss to the Concordat’s military.
Conquista, Andurien
Duchy of Andurien
Former-Free Worlds League
26th April 3066
Following a successful operation on Zion the Capellan Confederation attack two more former Free Worlds League worlds Conquista and Andurien. Leading the attack are Marshigama’s Legionnaires, a former Mercenary unit that had joined the Capellan Confederation and were considered to be a perfect sacrificial unit if the mission went wrong. On Conquista the attack goes well and the Legionaries send back four Civilian DropShips laden with supplies and captured equipment. On Andurien however things do not go well facing all five regiments of the Andurien Sentinels the Legionaries find their DropShips attacked as soon as they enter the atmosphere. In less than an hour the surviving Legionaries surrender under the guns of the Duchy of Andurien Sentinels. Hearing of this surrender Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao strikes the unit from the records not caring they were outnumbered five-to-one.
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Quatre Belle Naval Facility
Outworlds Alliance
3rd May 3066
Following the successful launching of the Raven-class DropShip Clan Snow Raven was given near full control over the renovation of the Quatre Belle facility. By May the facility is now capable of constructing Corax OmniFighters, Raven-class DropShips and maintaining JumpShips and WarShips although construction of these units is still a ways off. Khan Lynn McKenna offers the Outworlds Alliance a chance to station one of their units at the Quatre Belle facility to assist the Snow Ravens in defending the world, although five WarShips are already defending the facility and another regiment of fighters will make little difference the Outworlds Alliance sees this as a way of solidifying their relationship with the Clan and immediately agrees and sending the Second Regiment. Almost as soon as the Outworlds Alliance unit arrives it begins to retrain in the Clan organisation style with Freeborn Clan Snow Raven Warriors filling in the gaps of their TO&E, in the first obvious move of integration between the Snow Raven and Outworlds Alliance militaries.
Glengarry, Highlands
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
15th May 3066
Fighting for almost two months without proper leadership had taken a severe toll on the Gray Death Legion wearing the reinforced Regiment down to just a single Reinforced Battalion. This was not to say the two Tikonov Republican Guard regiments had not paid dearly for their efforts with their combined strength down to just under half, roughly three battalions combined. The Gray Death Legion headed into Beggars Canyon, a fissure in the ground that units rarely used because of sensor anomalies that made moving a Mech difficult and combat nearly impossible, the Legion survivors hoped that the Tikonov Guards would leave them there bottled up until Skye Forces had been victorious or lost on Skye and Hesperus II. However the Tikonov commanders had decided otherwise, angered by the Legion’s continued defiance and the head-hunter attack which had cost them many of their commanders they charged into the canyon in pursuit of the mercenaries with orders to kill everyone of the Grey Death's warriors even if it came down to physically destroying each and every cockpit and battle armour suit.
This move perhaps saved the Legion because the Tikonov forces weakened their spaceport defences enough for Alexander Carlyle, his company of AWOL warriors and the Denebolah Warriors Mercenary Unit to land on the planet. Alex had met the Denebolah warriors CO Major Samantha Logan during his time with the Royal Guards and after a little detour and a little persuasion had convinced her to help him. The appearance of a reinforced Battalion takes the Tikonov garrison forces by surprise and they are driven from the spaceport and the capital Dunkeld within just one hour. The remnants of the Gray Death Legion receive a communication from Alexander Carlyle using secured phrases and codes that only a member of the Carlyle family would know, knowing that Alex was back on Glengarry drove the Legion into a frenzy as they charged from their canyon hideaway and straight through incoming the Tikonov forces. Because of the canyon’s sensor anomalies the Tikonov forces were already disorganized and struggling to even maintain a decent formation as various warriors got lost in the twisting rocks and mounds. The faster Legionaries well trained in the area charged past the Tikonov forces at speed trying to avoid any major conflicts they escaped onto the Glengarry plains. By the end of the day the Legion and the Denebolah Warriors both under the command of Alexander Carlyle had rendezvoused in Dunkeld and were ready to face the Tikonov forces on nearly a level playing field for the first time since the battle for Glengarry.
Tikonov
Capellan March, Federated Suns
31st May 3066
Following months of planning and the insertion of several covert operatives the Capellan Confederation launch an assault on Tikonov in the Federated Suns‘ Capellan March. Tikonov had once been capital to a region of the Capellan Confederation and the Capellan people and their chancellor had never given up on the world or their belief that it was a Capellan holding.
With two WarShips in support the all seven active Warrior House Battalions of the Capellan Confederation drop onto Tikonov. Their first target is the Tikonov Training Battalion and its campus two Davion creations that had no place on a Capellan world. Outnumbered seven-to-one the Battalion’s cadets and the training grounds are raised to the ground in less than twenty minutes.
Then as three of the Warrior Houses begin laying down the law on the world’s population arresting Davion administrators and nobles Houses Imarra, Dai Da Chi, Ma-Tsu Kai and Ijori all move to engage the First Argyle Lancers an independent Mech Regiment of the AFFS. Against four Battalions of the Capellan’s most elite troops the veteran Lancers had little chance. Colonel Walter Scully ordered his regiment to concentrate on House Imarra as the charged towards the Spaceport attempting to escape the world. The damage caused on House Imarra by three times their number was devastating crushing the Battalion and allowing more than two Battalions of the Argyle Lancer Regiment to reach their DropShips and escape the world ready to inform their First Prince of the Capellan assault. Unfortunately the Capellan WarShips had moved closer to the world and cut off the three Argyle troop DropShips. In less than a minute the three vessels and their human cargo had been reduced to ash by Capellan WarShip guns. This bloody end brought Tikonov back under Capellan Confederation control. Due to the far-flung nature of the world, deep inside the Capellan March’s borders, Capellan Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao allows his Warrior House Masters to see to executions of Davion planetary leaders and the introduction of Capellan leaders and ideals to the world. Three days later the Federated Suns find out about the attack and the destruction of the Argyle regiment, First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion vows that Tikonov will be returned to the Federated Suns if it is the last thing he does.
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Clan Fire Mandrill Holdings
Dagda, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
4th June 3066
For all of the Clans diversities Clan Fire Mandrill is one of the strangest with its politics not decided by the Khan or saKhan but by various Kindraa that control every aspect of the Clan from the humblest merchant to the most Crusader-bent MechWarrior. A Kindraa is an alliance of the Fire Mandrill Bloodhouses. Following some heavy losses to the Star Adder Clan Bloodhouses Payne, Beyl and Grant form a new Kindraa turning three minor Bloodhouses into one of the strongest in the entire Clan. With this new Kindraa formed the Fire Mandrills hope that they can control their politics better and hold back the march of the other Clans. Unfortunately the Star Adders remain just over the border waiting.
ComStar Battle Armour Factory Alpha
Memoria, Tukayyid
Free Rasalhague Republic
13th June 3066
Following the Draconis Combine’s refusal to sell them Kage Battle Armour the Free Rasalhague Republic had come to ComStar and asked them to help in the development of a new Battle Armour suit. With the ComGuards secretly training to assault Terra ComStar had been hesitant to become involved however the Star League Defence Force had offered to join them and split the costs three way with the Free Rasalhague Republic providing the resources for the factory and grounds. ComStar building and running the factory on Tukayyid in their de facto capital city of Memoria and providing technical expertise and the Star League Defence Force providing the bulk of the funding. After four years of work, development and testing the factory unveils its first product the Kobold Light Battle Armour suit. As agreed each nation/organisation will receive a third of each production run brining reach’s military roughly one hundred suit’s a year.
Tau Galaxy Command Base
New Haiti, Proving Grounds
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
20th June 3066
Following a lengthy development in conjunction with Nova Cat Scientists the members of Tau Galaxy develop a new type of armoured combat vehicle that would embrace the Advanced Tactical Missile Launcher and modernise the Nova Cat Armoured forces. Named the Shoden Tactical Missile Tank, by a captured Combine tech, the design is a seventy ton wheeled tank carrying an array of three nine-tube Advanced Tactical Missile Launchers and Light Machine Guns and a healthy supply of ammo.
Of all Nova Cat forces the Tau Galaxy has show most interest in the use of armoured vehicles and following a successful trial period the warriors of Tau Galaxy prove the Shoden can successfully engage targets at far greater range and accuracy than tradition missile carrying units and that the ATM system is the perfect weapon system for armoured vehicles. Watching the tests the Nova Cat Khans give the go-ahead for the Shoden’s full production at a factory to be built on New Haiti, the design is also sold to the Diamond Sharks for resources the Nova Cats turn into expanding their settlements in the Nova Cat’s Den and increasing the size of their Touman.
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James McKenna, McKenna-class Battleship
Dante System
Outworlds Alliance, Periphery
5th July 3066
When President Mitchell Avellar had been invited aboard the Snow Raven’s flagship the James McKenna he had not expected the vessel to jump nearly as soon as he was aboard nor for them to arrive in the Dante system. The Dante system was home to the Omniss Cult, a group of Outworlds Alliance citizens who had rejected all technology not necessary for the continuation of life, this surprised Avellar because the Outworlds Alliance had no military forces there. The world was only in contact with the outside once a month when a single DropShip was allowed to land there and offload supplies or drop off any visitors. Mitchell respected the Omniss’ right to run their world as they saw fit and left them to it, Dante was so deep in the Outworlds Alliance that no pirate force would be able to get to the world without being seen by Alliance patrols.
As soon as the James McKenna reverted to real-space the vessel’s huge manoeuvring drives flared into life and the 1,930,000 ton Battleship began to move just as Mitchell reached the bridge. Just inside the room were a pair of armoured Elemental guards and beyond them was Lynn McKenna Khan of the Snow Raven Clan. “Khan McKenna, could you please tell me why we are in the Dante system? This is the most peace loving system I have ever come across, the people may be a little backward in their views but they are entirely harmless.†Mitchell said walking onto the bridge in the light gravity provided by the vessel’s thrust.
“Well, we shall soon see Mr President.†Lynn said turning briefly towards him then back to the Holo-tank active in the centre of the room. Mitchell glanced at the Holo-tank briefly although not a military man Mitchell had always been smart, some said he was a genius, although the technology seen on the James McKenna was a little beyond him he did understand most of it on a basic level. Stepping closer to the Holo-tank he saw that one of the icons was defiantly the James McKenna, the Holo-tank was so precise in its rendering of the massive McKenna-class Battleship it could not be mistaken for anything else. In the far corner hanging from nothing was a large round object Mitchell recognised as Dante, the Holo-tank even rendered the world’s continents, but near the planet’s moon was something else.
“What is that?†He asked looking at the craft moving away from the planet. “Is that some sort of DropShip?†He asked looking around blankly the Snow Ravens ignored him.
“No, Mr President, that is a Baron-class WarShip.â€
“A WarShip? A Snow Raven vessel?†He asked blankly he did not recognise the Baron-class designation assuming it was an ancient Star League-era design still fielded by the Clans.
“Neg, the Star League retired that class before they left the Inner Sphere, it is an inferior design and none of the Clans field such craft. The Star League sold them off to the Inner Sphere and Periphery states before the Reunification War. Is it a Outworlds Alliance vessel?†Lynn McKenna said looking directly at Mitchell, she wanted to know if the Outworlds Alliance leader had been lying to her since day one.
“No, we have no such vessels, or any need for such vessels, you know this.†He said accusingly “I would like to know who it does belong to.â€
“We will find out in time. Star Admiral, order your fore Gunners to fire at will, all other on standby.â€
“Aye, Khan McKenna†the vessel’s commander, Star Admiral Hinda Shu, said the James McKenna’s command bridge lights dimmed as the vessels closed. “Fore-guns fire at will, all other hot standby.†she repeated into the intercom.
“In range with Naval lasers†one of the bridge crew said “gunners firing†he said as the James McKenna’s forward paired heavy Naval Lasers lashed out catching the enemy vessel in the rear quarters. “Good shooting gun crew, we need that again.â€
“Star Admiral, target is turning and blossoming†a sensor operator said as the enemy WarShip began deploying fighters. The standard Baron carried six aerospace fighters which would be easily dealt with the star of escorting fighters travelling alongside the James McKenna. “Sir! Seventy-Two, repeat Seven-Two Aerospace Fighters deploying and enemy WarShip’s forward guns coming on-line as they turn.â€
“Star Admiral, Fore Quarter Guns released to fire.†Lynn McKenna said stepping over beside Mitchell “now it gets interesting. Someone has been doing some work on that ship.â€
“You think this is where all the pirate attacks have been coming from?†Mitchell asked putting things together the Snow Ravens had agreed to help the Outworlds Alliance find the pirates who had been attacking them.
“I think this may be part of the problem.†She said as the James McKenna’s fore quarter Naval Lasers and Capital Missiles joined the fight spraying the Baron’s forward armour with varying degrees of damage. Amazingly the smaller vessel held up to the attack and returned fire on the Battleship sending six of its own Naval-lasers and four Capital Missiles into the James McKenna’s port side causing some armour damage but little else.
“Enemy guns have been upgraded as well, sir.â€
“Still not match for us.†The Star Admiral muttered “bring us to port and activate Broadside guns. Launch all fighters and tell them to destroy those fighters.†the Hinda Shu said not waiting for the Khan’s opinion the James McKenna carried fifty fighters meaning the Snow Raven pilots would be outnumbered, but they were the most elite the Snow Raven Clan could field plus the James McKenna was about to even this fight by taking out the Baron. The enemy WarShip continued to close firing as it came weapons fire splashed over the James McKenna’s hull, this deep in the vessel and with almost one thousand-five hundred tons of armour protecting them the weapons fire sounded like rain drops hitting a tin roof. Around the James McKenna the Snow Raven OmniFighter pilots were already facing half as many enemy fighters as they had before they started with only two losses of their own.
“Broadside solution charged, targeted and ready.â€
“Fire!†The Hinda Shu said, moments later even as the Naval lasers of the Baron hit the James McKenna’s port side the Battleship’s own twelve Heavy Naval Particle Projection Cannons opened fire at once. One of the most devastating Broadsides any WarShip could deliver the McKenna’s broadside was designed to destroy or at least cripple any other WarShip in one volley. This time the broadside did not disappoint as all twelve blasts of man-made lightning each the size of an aerospace fighter slammed into the enemy vessel almost at the same time. The bolts burned straight through the vessel gutting it from port-to-starboard and burning through the other side of the vessel. The four-hundred-and-eighty thousand ton vessel consumed by a fireball as its wreckage spun away towards the planet, fragments of the vessel would burn up in the atmosphere for the next month while larger chunks would slam into Dante’s major oceans. Around the James McKenna the Snow Raven pilots had destroyed all seventy-two enemy fighters loosing six of their own number in the process it had been a short but productive battle.
“Star Admiral, bring us into orbit and begin scans of the planet. Any DropShip attempting to leave is to be given one chance to surrender then destroyed understood?†Star Admiral Shu nodded as Lynn McKenna slipped her arm into Mitchell Avellar’s “how about some dinner? We may not have such luxury as you have on Alpheratz but it should suffice.†She said leading the Outworlds Alliance leader from the room, how she could think of food after that was beyond him.
“Sure, what about Dante?â€
“Later, first we eat.†She said triumphantly leading Mitchell from the command bridge. Snow Raven repair crews had already begun repairing the superficial damaged done to the James McKenna taking supplies out of the quarter of a million ton capacity cargo bay, this ship could transport nearly as much as about half of all Outworlds Alliance DropShips, it was the Snow Raven's only McKenna-class vessel but they had many others of different classes. Seeing the ship and crew in action Mitchell Avellar realized just how crazy those in the parliament who had suggested resistance were, the Alliance for all it's fighters would have no chance against this mighty vessel.
A few hours later they were finished eating and back on the James McKenna’s bridge looking down at the world. To Mitchell’s eyes the world chosen by the Omniss was as beautiful as the first time he had seen it however the Snow Raven sensors told another story. During the time they had been eating three DropShips had attempted to run and were shot down by the James McKenna’s powerful weapons array, on the planet’s surface there were at least a dozen DropShips and throughout the cities on the planet were BattleMechs and combat vehicles. There were also several dozen camps scattered across the planet “I had no idea. The people of the world wanted to be left alone and we left them to this.†Mitchell said, he didn't understand how the transport DropShips could have missed all this, Snow Raven fighters relayed pictures of forced labour camps on the planet and prison camps. “I want who did this dead. Whatever it takes.†Mitchell said looking away from the pictures with disgust, the time for peaceful solutions to problems was over.
“It will be done.†Lynn McKenna said heading from the room leaving Mitchell on the bridge as she moved to her command DropShip. Six DropShips then detached from the James McKenna’s hull and sped towards the planet. In sixteen hours of heavy combat with help from the James McKenna's fighters the Corvus Keshik, First Raven Phalanx and the Sixth Raven Battle Cluster of the Snow Raven’s Swift Wing (Alpha) Galaxy destroyed over two Regiments worth of raider troops freeing the planet’s battered population from their slavery.
From the James McKenna Mitchell Avellar sent word back to Alpheratz of the raider presence on Dante and ordered a relief convoy sent to the world. By the time the battle had ended six cargo DropShips and a Regiment of fighters from the First Alliance Air Wing had arrived to help get the world back on its feet. Walking the soil of Dante Mitchell could see the hurt in the population’s eyes whomever these pirates were they had treated the population like they were nothing and the Alliance had done nothing for them. Following several attacks against Alliance troops in the first couple of hours of them being on Dante Mitchell turned to Lynn McKenna and asked the Snow Raven if they could take permanent stewardship of the worlds defences the Snow Raven Khan agreed and the Alliance troops retreated allowing the Snow Ravens to distribute supplies. Mitchell returned to Alpheratz with his troops angered that they had been made to look like fools by some smart well equipped pirates and vowing revenge to the Outworlds Alliance population, the Alliance had never been strong militarily that was about to change the Alliance would become dedicated to eradicating any pirate threat.
Outside City of Memoria
Focht War College, Tukayyid
Free Rasalhague Republic
16th July 3066
Following his criticising of the Star League’s apparent ‘Company Store’ Policy to increase its numbers when it came to mercenary forces it was slightly a shock when newly promoted Lieutenant-General Marcus Johnson of the Seventy-Seventh Special Operations Group found himself trying to convince the Killer Bees Mercenary Battalion to sign on full time with the new SLDF. Following over a months negotiation with unit commander, Major Ernst Murdoch, however that is exactly what happened with the Killer Bees joining the SAS Division as an official auxiliary to the Blackhearts, becoming the Seventy-Eighth Special Operations Battalion. The Killer Bees officially joined the SLDF having their Light BattleMechs upgraded to light OmniMechs, their conventional infantry upgraded to Kobold Battle Armour and their single squadron of Aerospace Fighters upgraded to brand new Huscarl OmniFighters provided by ComStar.
Following this move by a former mercenary and from complaints from other mercenary unit’s the MRBC officially complain to the SLDF for their taking control of so many mercenary troops. The SLDF point out there are plenty of mercenary units in the Inner Sphere and that the only major mercenary units to join them have been the Eridani Light Horse and the Blue Star Irregulars, Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion points out that these units have historical ties to the Star League and have voluntarily rejoined the SLDF’s ranks and he continues to say that the MRBC can complain if the Northwind Highlanders, Kell Hounds or Wolf’s Dragoons join the SLDF units that are linchpins in the MRBC and have no previous ties to the SLDF.
At the same time as Morgan’s speech ComStar announce the arrival of the ComGuard’s first home-grown OmniMech. The Focht Light OmniMech weighs in at thirty tons, can reach speeds of ninety-seven kilometres per hour and can carry thirteen-and-a-half tons of weapons and equipment in its pod space. As with almost all of ComStar’s products the Focht Light OmniMech will be open to sale after the first production run which will go exclusively to ComGuard Divisions. The Star League Defence Force and Free Rasalhague Republic both put in an order for the thirty OmniMechs each.
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This is great
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Hyades Cluster, Dark Cloud Nebula
Taurus System
Taurian Concordat
1st August 3066
Angered at the loss of an Overlord-class and a Battalion of troops the Fighting Urukhai jump en-masse into the Taurus system fighting their way through the Taurian blockade around the planet and burning onto the world. Two and a half regiments of angry mercenaries all using advanced technology attack the Taurian Defenders, the Taurian Guard and the Taurian Commandos, in total four regiments but only two Mech units. The Fighting Urukhai destroy the two Taurian units, all four regiments and their attached fighter wings before beginning to destroy all manufacturing and support bases for any military force the Taurian authorities only have one option left to them.
Unlike the other nations of the Inner Sphere and Periphery the Taurian Concordat has never outlawed the use of Nuclear, Chemical and Biological weapons. Under the capital are several such weapons set-up almost like a dead-mans switch. Protector Grover Sharplen orders the weapons detonated just before evacuating the city. The bombs detonate wiping out Samantha, sixteen million Taurian men, women and children and all remains of the Fighting Urukhai. Hours later Grover Sharplen assures the Taurian people he escaped unharmed and that it was the Fighting Urukhai carrying a Davion Nuclear bomb that destroyed the city, Grover Sharplen declares war on the Federated Suns. Taurian units began crossing the border, the Taurian Concordat almost totally forget about the devastation on Taurus mainly the destruction of large portions of their capital, Samantha, in their bid to claim revenge against the Federated Suns.
Six days after confirming that it was not a Federated Suns ordered attack and that the Fighting Urukhai were not carrying Davion nuclear weapons First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion refutes Taurian Concordat claims and to the horror of the Capellan March offers the Taurians a chance to step down. The Taurians answer by invading the Pleiades Cluster a long disputed group of tightly packed planets and stars.
Following the Taurian refusal to back down over their offensive Victor Steiner-Davion authorises Field Marshal Baron George Hasek to use all forces necessary to defeat the Taurians and stop the Invasion of the Federated Suns. George re-routes the First Kathil Uhlans and several mercenary units to the Pleiades Cluster in an effort to destroy the Taurian units however guerrilla warfare scale fighting continues on.
Gray Death Legion Command Complex
Glengarry, Dunkeld
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
21st August 3066
Supported by the Denebolah Warriors Alexander Carlyle leads the resurgent Gray Death Legion to victory on Glengarry defeating the Tikonov Republic Guards and brining the world back under the control of his family and under Lyran Alliance authority. He frees several government officials imprisoned by the Free Skye forces and is officially awarded the title Baron von Glengarry and the rank of Colonel commanding the Gray Death Legion. Although a separate unit the Denebolah Warriors commander Major Samantha Logan remains on the world under Alex’s command, they have rekindled their previous relationship. Alex orders his units to board their DropShips and prepare to go to Hesperus II to end the Free Skye threat to the Lyran Alliance and complete the Gray Death Legion’s orders.
MRBC Headquarters
Galatean City, Galatea
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
28th August 3066
Following their victory in the suing the Lyran Alliance Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion approaches Devil’s Advocates Mercenary with the opportunity to form a special unit within the SLDF. They will be a bio-hazard unit capable of providing humanitarian aid in inhospitable areas and will be assigned to cleaning up and disposing of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons (NBC). Because of recent complaints the unit will technically be under contract with the SLDF for the first year to ensure there are not more complaints from the MRBC. Captain Charlene Cypher, the commander of the Devil’s Advocates, agrees under one condition her unit’s to the Wolf’s Dragoons are paid off in full by the SLDF. Morgan Hasek-Davion agrees and the Devil’s Advocates enter into a contract with the SLDF with an option to extend it and become members of the SLDF, the MRBC are not happy by the arrangement but as they Devil’s Advocates are technically still mercenaries under temporary contract they have no grounds to complain.
Defiance of Hesperus II (DefHes), Hesperus II
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
31st August 3066
The loss on Glengarry and the two Tikonov Republican Guard units hurt the Free Skye Movement however with the arrival of the First Tikonov Republican Guard on Hesperus II the movement gained more steam and following a break-down of communications between the two Lyran Guard regiments defending the Defiance Factories Free Skye was able to bring the Fifteenth Battle of Hesperus II to a close with victory. The loss of the DefHes Plants and the allowing of a enemy state/organisation to gain control of Hesperus II’s main is something that has never happened in Lyran history and a major sore point for the Lyran Archon to swallow. The Survivors of the Fifteenth Lyran and Thirty-Sixth Lyran Guard under the command of Leutnant-General Keane Sortek, nephew of Federated Suns Crucis March Field Marshal Arden Sortek, flee to the planetary capital Maria‘s Elegy. Even together they only number four combined arms troops, less than a single RCT significantly less than the Free Skye forces arrayed against them. The population of Hesperus II demand that their families, the majority of whom are employed at the DefHes plant are freed from the Free Skye Tyranny. However Keane Sortek refuses to throw his troops at the DefHes security grid instead servicing his equipment and giving his troops some rest before trying to retake the facility unofficially surrendering the Fifteenth Battle but not the world to Free Skye - the fact that his troops trust him and that they control most of the planet is probably the only thing that saves Keane from the Hesperus II masses.
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VI Corps Command Complex
Marknick, Calderon Protectorate
Former Taurian Concordat
6th September 3066
Standing in front of the Holo-projector Marshal (Baron) Cham Kithrong felt one hundred percent wrong with what he was doing but knew it was the only way for his people to regain control of their nation and for the true ruler to claim his throne. As the unit activated Cham began to speak “People of the Concordat I am Baron Cham Kithrong, Marshal of VI Corps and Regent to Erik Martens, also known as Erik Calderon. Erik is the adopted son of Jeffery Calderon a fact that we can now prove with legal documents obtained from ComStar delivered from a law-firm based on Terra. I have presented this to Protector Sharplen calling for him to step down and allow Erik to assume the throne of the Concordat when he is of legal age but Sharplen has refused. I hereby denounce Sharplen as an usurper to the Taurian leadership and withdraw the VI Corps from the Taurian Armed forces, with us stand six worlds and we shall stand alone as the Calderon Protectorate, centred on Erod’s Escape with New Taurus as our capital, we shall stand alone until Grover Sharplen stands down as Protector and turns over the leadership to Erik or his lawful Regent.†Cham left out that the regent was him, no need for the people of the Concordat to see him as grabbing power for himself, something he would never do. “Also today I have the grave duty of bringing evidence that the nuclear explosion that consumed Samantha on Taurus was not caused by Federated Suns Mercenaries but by the orders of Grover Sharplen. Grover Sharplen ordered the death of sixteen million Concordat lives and is required to stand as a war criminal immediately.†Cham said, the last part was laying it on a little thick, there was evidence that the explosion came from under the city of Samantha and records that stated only the Protector could order their detonation however there was no written evidence that Grover ordered their detonation. “I have no lust for power†he said frankly breaking from the script “and I have supported the Calderon family my entire life. When Jeffery Calderon died on Detroit I felt like my heart had been wrenched from my chest and stabbed, then I discovered Erik and his legal adoption making him the unannounced heir of the Concordat, his father’s realm, I will do everything I need to make sure that Erik is given the nation he deserves.†An hour later the broadcast was sent across the Concordat and into the Inner Sphere. It would take another four months for legal recognition of the nation by other major powers, one of the first recognitions coming from the Federated Suns, the Concordat’s ancient enemy and the nation currently at war with the Concordat. Cham saw the move by the Federated Suns for what it was a way to weaken the Concordat not strengthen the Protectorate but accepted their word of recognition. As expected Sharplen refused to step down and denounced Cham Kithrong as a petty tyrant of weak-minded world leaders.
Medical Facility Alpha
Borealis Facility, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den
14th September 3066
During a routine inspection of the newly completed mammoth floating structure known as Borealis Facility Yvonne (Rosse) experiences to first indications that she is about to give birth to the child she and Canin are expecting when her waters break. Unable to travel back to land due to a severe storm she gives birth in the Primary medical facility to a healthy and strong son, which she and Canin name Grayson. Upon hearing this there is widespread call for Khan Santin West to step aside as leader of the Clan as Canin Rosse was fulfilling prophecy by having a son to Inner Sphere nobility, he was brining the Clan back to the Inner Sphere fold. The information is transmitted to Santin West by one of his supporters and from the Clan Homeworlds Santin West realises that his Clan is ready to tear itself apart over the birth of a child, something he allowed to continue to happen. Knowing there is only one civilized way through this he transmits encrypted information for Canin’s eyes only offering to turn over the Khanship.
On New Barcella Canin immediately transmits his refusal of the position of Khan throughout the Nova Cat’s Den and the Nova Cat enclaves in the Clan Homeworlds. He informs Nova Cats that they are a Clan and will always be a Clan and the birth of one freeborn child changes nothing. He informs the Clan that if they stop respecting Clan traditions then they risk alienating the Nova Cats from the other Clans and ending their existence as a Clan. Khan Santin West remains Khan with Canin remaining as an immensely popular saKhan, now Canin’s supporters and Santin’s supporters believe in Canin as a potential Khan. Meanwhile Canin begins to get to grips with the most alien concept possible to a Trueborn Clansman, parenthood.
Uninhabited System
Gray Death Legion JumpShip Star Wolf
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
4th October 3066
Entering an uninhabited system heading for Hesperus II the Gray Death Legion were confronted by a Fox-class Corvette, the Lyran Alliance fielded five such vessels and none had signed on with the Free Skye Movement, this could be a Lyran WarShip waiting to receive orders to strike Skye or Hesperus II or it could be a vessel lying in wait for anyone trying to reinforce the Free Skye forces. Alex was not overly concerned the Gray Death Legion was under contract with the Lyran Alliance and had been ordered by the Archon to stop the fighting. The only thing they could do is arrest Alex and the other warriors who had joined him when he went AWOL from the Royal Guards. The Star Wolf’s crew sent the vessels identification signal ensuring they were not attacked by mistake “Can you identify them?†Alex asked.
“Having problems locking onto their IFF, it‘s encoded.†The JumpShip bridge sensor officer said from his station about a foot from where Alex was standing, the JumpShip’s bridge was tiny, cramped and in zero-g conditions making it probably the most uncomfortable place to be at present.
“Encoded? Why would one of our own ships have their IFF encoded in our space?â€
“Why would they have it encoded at all?†The JumpShip captain asked quietly “rotate the frequency through the old FedCom frequencies, see if these fools have never swapped their IFF to the new frequencies.â€
“Aye sir†the sensor officer said. Moments later the JumpShip sensors registered the Vessel and its name “sir, its the Intrepid, last assigned to the Tenth Lyran Guards during the Clan War as Victor-Steiner-Davion’s command ship. That‘s a Federated Suns ship.†He said his voice full with dread Alex looked up out the view port watching the Fox turn slowly sure enough there was a Federated Suns Sword-and-Sunburst on the vessels port side they certainly were not hiding who they were. Alex wondered why a vessel that now served the Federated Suns would be in Lyran space years after the end of the FedCom Alliance and during an internal crisis, he secretly wondered if the Federated Suns were funding Free Skye, a frightening possibility.
“Can you raise them?†Alex asked
“Sir, they are not Alliance friendly. Standard policy is to remain quiet and hope they stick to the Rules of Engagement and leave us out of this.†The JumpShip commander said quietly. For years the ability to manufacture JumpShips had been lost to the Inner Sphere and JumpShips had become prize assets and were not to be destroyed or even fired on. Since the rediscovery of technology this rule had slowly begun to be forgotten but most JumpShip crews still prayed the WarShips would ignore their defenceless vessels.
“I didn’t know the Federated Suns and Lyran Alliance were at war?†Alex said looking at the JumpShip commander who wore a blank expression. “Raise them.†Alex said this time it wasn’t a question and the JumpShip captain under contract with the Gray Death Legion had a duty to follow his order despite it being his ship. Moments later the radio crackled to life.
“Repeat this is the FSS Intrepid to JumpShip Star Wolf do you read?†The WarShip’s sensors having identified them and recognized the Star Wolf’s IFF as a JumpShip afflicted with the Gray Death Legion.
“This is Star Wolf, what do you FedRats want?†The JumpShip Captain said before Alex could, Alex shook his head slowly, that wasn’t the tone he’d have used.
“Permission to send over a shuttlecraft. I have a passenger that would like to talk to the commander of the Legion.†The Intrepid crewmen said ignoring the insult against House Davion troops.
“This is Colonel Alexander Carlyle, permission granted to bay two.†He said the JumpShip only carried one shuttle leaving space for a visiting vessel the JumpShip Captain scowled at him, Alex didn’t know if it was because he was a ground-pounded interfering with naval operations or if it was because he’d just accepted to have Davion troops on the Captain’s ship. “Dock them at bay two Captain.†Alex said leaving the bridge.
“Yes, sir†the Captain said angrily at the closed door. The Captain turned back to his three man bridge crew “the apple fell far from that tree.†He said quietly “not a bit like his parents that one.â€
“They say he fights like his father.†One of the Bridge crew said.
“Perkins, he better or we will be looking for another employer. Clear that blasted Davion Shuttle to the bay.†He said watching the Intrepid let loose a small ovoid shuttle that began heading over. “Let’s see what they want.â€
Twenty minutes later the Shuttle was docked and at the other side of the airlock Alex and Major Samantha Logan, the Denebolah Warrior’s Commander stood waiting. As the airlock slid to one side Alex forced himself to catch his breath as it rushed out from surprise standing there was Peter Steiner-Davion and Adam Steiner, the last two men Alex had expected to see. Both were kitted out in Federated Commonwealth uniforms both with Marshal insignia on them. Both Alex and Samantha saluted out of reflex despite these men arriving on a foreign ship and wearing foreign uniforms. “Welcome aboard, sire.†Alex said respectfully bowing slightly to both Peter and Adam, whatever their official standing both were members of the head Lyran noble house.
“Thank you Colonel, I was sorry to hear about your parents. A great loss to the Alliance and the Inner Sphere.†Peter said Alex remained silent, he’d hardly thought about his parent’s deaths, whenever he thought about them he ended up in tears something he could not afford now.
“Thank you, sire. May I ask what you are doing here with a Federated Suns WarShip?â€
“When Katherine broke the Commonwealth she abandoned it. My brother Victor has not abandoned it and perceives Skye to be a far larger threat than Katherine will give them credit. The Intrepid has been loaned by the First Prince and escorted us this far unseen however in two days time unmarked JumpShips will arrive and I will lead a force to Hesperus II. I was hoping that I could count the Gray Death Legion in as part of this force.†Peter said Alex thought about that carefully at present the Legion was in Katherine’s good graces however if he led them to Hesperus II with Peter then she may see it as if they favoured Peter over her making them a target. Then again if they did not go with Peter and he failed or worse was killed then the Legion would be hated by the Federated Suns and Lyran Alliance.
“What forces do you have?†Alex said cautiously buying time.
“The Fox’s Teeth, the Blackheart Seventy-Seventh Special Operations Battalion and Twelfth Battle Armour Battalion of the SLDF and the First Royal BattleMech Regiment also of the SLDF. When the JumpShips arrive we will also have the Twentieth Arcturan Guards and a Battalion of Kell Hounds with the complements of Morgan Kell.â€
“The SLDF? Isn’t this an internal matter?†Samantha asked risking upsetting Peter’s plans.
“Aff, but we called on the Star League to assist in Humanitarian and anti-Terrorist activities.†Adam said “both SLDF units will remain out of the heaviest of the fighting which we hope will not be heavy but are planning for the worse.â€
“Well you can count the Gray Death Legion and the Denebolah Warriors in as well, we are roughly a combined-arms Regiment in strength together.†Alex said throwing his weight behind Peter seemed like the best bet he didn’t know where he stood with Katherine since he went AWOL so throwing behind a pair of Dukes was better than with a dodgy Archon in his opinion. Samantha just looked on with a small smile playing on her lips as he spoke for her command as well, no doubt he’d pay for that later.
Four days later following the arrival of the Arcturan Guards and Kell Hounds Peter leads the force to Hesperus II immediately informing the Free Skye Forces of whom they now face. The two Lyran Guard regiments immediately align themselves with Peter’s forces with Lt General Keane Sortek becoming a close aide to Adam Steiner and Peter Steiner-Davion. The Sixteenth Battle of Hesperus II begins.
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Dieudonne
Independent Barony
Former Free Worlds League
12th October 3066
Over the centuries Dieudonne and its Star League-era fortification had been the prize of many would be conquerors and covert operations however in May 3066 several terrorist bombings began taking place across the planet. Unable to find the perpetrators of these bombings various elements of the planet’s garrison force, the Twenty-Fifth Marik Militia, begin blaming each other for causing the bombings without proof the units commander, Colonel Anita Webel, is able to keep her unit away from each other’s throats however in October 3066 the units decide enough is enough when Colonel Webel is killed in her quarters. The Unit breaks into various battalions and sub-units and begin to tare into each other and Dieudonne. After a week of fighting with little hope of ending the fighting the planets surviving governors contact the nearby Rousset-Marik Alliance with hopes of them accepting Dieudonne and ending the fighting. On the 12th Jonas Marik and his Krushers arrive and literally Krush the remaining elements of the Twenty-Fifth bringing peace to the world and the world into the Rousset-Marik Alliance.
Tikonov, Capellan Confederation Holding
Capellan March, Federated Suns
21st October 3066
Although ordered not to initiate a ground campaign on Tikonov until the fighting in the Lyran Alliance dies down, for fears that this would begin a war with the Capellan Confederation destabilizing the entire region, Field Marshal George Hasek does deploy two Federated Suns WarShips, the Congress Block II-class Frigate FSS Jason Hasek and the Davion Block III-class Destroyer FSS Charles Davion these two vessels maintain position at the Nadir and Zenith points intercepting any JumpShip or DropShip civilian or military confiscating any military equipment. In the first two days of the blockade they seize a Battalion’s worth of military grade Hovercraft. The Capellans begin ordering their captains to use more dangerous pirate-points to keep the supply lines open. For now the Davion WarShips maintain their positions at the jump points.
Word of Blake HPG Compound
Caph, Chaos March
3rd November 3066
In an unprovoked assault a ComStar ComGuard Division assault the Word of Blake HPG Compound and its defending forces. Using the Star Nova Galaxy name as a cover and having their equipment painted in every colour of all the Inner Sphere militaries the ComGuards hope they can hide their identity. The Word of Blake force holds its position and both units take heavy damage, as the ComGuards retreat an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser escorts them clear of the battle scene keeping up the illusion that it was the Star Nova Galaxy, the Word of Blake are not convinced however.
Immediately the Word of Blake ROM attempt to begin to track the Star Nova Galaxy tracking them deep into the Federated Suns however getting nowhere deeper due to heavy DMI and MIIO interference. The Word of Blake ROM spend six months attempting to track the force with very little to catch them out on however their agents do cause quite heavy casualties to DMI and MIIO operatives during the period trying to uncover information that only the highest levels of House Davion were aware of, the Word of Blake find no trace of the Star Nova Galaxy or anyone who may have been masquerading as them.
Civilian Administration
Philip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den
14th November 3066
Since the birth of Grayson Yvonne had gained a lot of respect of her fellow workers and been able to do far more on New Barcella to improve the life of the castes lower than the Warrior caste. The naval cluster that patrolled the seas and explored New Barcella were virtually under her command and things were progressing smoothly. The sight of the saKhan in the halls of Yvonne’s building was no longer a source of gossip although the workers still afforded Canin all the respect he was due as second-in-command of the entire Clan. Yvonne sat in her office working through papers as Grayson slept in the crib one of her fellow workers had built there was a tapping at the door. Yvonne looked up and noticed Canin standing at the door leaning against the frame “hello†she said softly smiling, it had been nearly a week since she had seen him and from his unshaven, unkempt look she could see he had just arrived.
“Hi†Canin said gingerly walking in and over to the crib “this is nice†Canin said touching the crib its wooden frame was soft to the touch as if it had been sculpted. Just then Grayson who had been sleeping until then woke up and began screaming “Hush, hush, hush†Canin said softly trying to sooth the baby but Grayson continued to scream. “Hush a bye baby on the tree stalk when the wind blows the cradle will rock when the bow breaks the cradle will fall and down will come baby cradle and all.†Canin sung quietly completely out of tune as Yvonne came alongside him and picked up Grayson putting him over her shoulder the baby quietened almost immediately.
“Someone wants attention.†Yvonne said smiling walking back behind her table looking up at Canin “where did you learn that rhyme? I haven’t heard that for years.†She asked, the rhyme dated back to ancient Terra where Canin had heard it was anyone’s guess. Grayson as always was not interested in anything but food and as soon as he say Yvonne’s exposed breast he latched on and began to suck.
“Someone gets all the attention†Canin smiled ruefully from the expression on her face Canin could tell she was barely holding in a laugh. “Doesn’t that hurt?†He said curious, he had never witnessed a freeborn baby feeding until he had seen Grayson and Yvonne.
“Not really, it’s rather soothing actually†Yvonne said looking down at her baby son.
“I bet†Canin whispered but not quietly enough Yvonne’s had a massive smile on her face as she threw a pen at Canin hitting him on the shoulder “ouch†Canin said playing along “well I bet it is.†Canin said smiling again Yvonne was barely holding herself together and as she looked down seeing Grayson looking up at her and Canin she burst into a fit of laughter which Grayson was soon copying bringing a smile to Canin’s face as well.
“So how can we help you today, saKhan†Yvonne said trying to regain control of her emotions and be more formal. If Canin had come to see her and the baby alone he would have waited until later in the night so he could take them home. Because Yvonne was now fully civilian she and Canin were living apart with her in the City above the Clan Hall and Canin in Delta Galaxy’s garrison outside the city. They saw each other less but despite this they both felt the same that the addition of Grayson had completed their lives even more than their marriage.
“I have a new job for you.†Canin said Yvonne looked at him questioningly, she enjoyed her job here keeping New Barcella ticking over it helped the Nova Cats and kept the Khan‘s paper work in order. “It is Khan Santin West’s idea actually but I think you would be perfect for it. Your work here on New Barcella has been nothing short of stunning†he said Yvonne looked at his with an expression that said ‘flattery will get you nowhere.’
“So why do I get a new job?â€
“The Khan said it was because of your success. But actually I think he wants you off New Barcella so your popularity does not increase more than he can handle, the people have already called for him to stand down once.â€
“A Clansmen playing politics†She said shocked “I thought he was happy with me here.â€
“He is, but now he has a new job for you which I think will suit you just as well. He wants you to take command of a new Cluster we are forming.â€
“I am not a warrior, Canin, you know this.†Yvonne said protesting with Grayson joining them the last thing she wanted was to be in a fighting unit “I will fight a trial against this.†She promised.
“Would you let me finish.†Canin said raising his voice slightly, rarely did he raise his voice around Yvonne or Grayson. Grayson did not think much of this and began to cry only to be soothed once more by milk from Yvonne’s breast. “The Cluster is not a combat unit or even a military support unit. It is called the New Worlds Cluster and its job is to expand the frontiers of the Nova Cat’s Den. Assigned permanently to it is a Carrack-Merchant and a large group of Nova Cat Merchants and scientists and we hope to attach engineers as well. The whole idea of the unit is to colonise more worlds for the Nova Cat’s Den allowing us more resources and territory without attacking someone.â€
“Without attacking? Doesn’t sound very Clan-like.†Yvonne said not completely convinced.
“The Nova Cats are changing, our relationship is a fact of that. We will still fight people that is our way however at present the only person we could fight is the Federated Suns and your brother’s forces something we do not want.†Canin said honestly he respected Victor and did not want to launch and invasion on the Federated Suns despite several calls for the contrary from other Nova Cats. Of course they could strike at the Taurian Concordat or the distant Outworlds Alliance but neither would be able to offer the technology or resources of a Inner Sphere House State.
“So what would our overall mission be?â€
“To colonise at least two worlds in the surrounding area. To accomplish this you will need to scout systems and report anything that could be of use. Then land on planets and establish colonies.â€
“Not the safest jobs, especially for a newborn.†Yvonne said looking down at Grayson his immunities were weaker than an adults.
“You will have a full medical and surgical team with you and a security detail. Your Merchant ship has an HPG able to call in reinforcements at a moments later and I promise you I will have a Cluster, a combat cluster, on hot-standby at all times.†Canin said standing rounding the table kneeling down beside her “I will not let anything happen to you or my son, but this project may fail without you then the Nova Cats will have to look at military action.†Canin said stroking Grayson’s cheek as he continued to feed.
“I will do it.†she said after a moments thought Canin leaned over and kissed her on the lips then the forehead. “Ouch†she exclaimed removing Grayson from her nipple “only a couple of months old and already I can feel his teeth.â€
“He is a Nova Cat, we need our teeth†Canin said smiling as Yvonne picked up Grayson and put him back in the crib.
“Well that is enough for you, sleep now.†She said tucking the baby into the crib within moments he was fast asleep once more. Turning around she saw Canin in her chair relaxed Yvonne moved across and sat on his lap he made an ‘Ooof’ noise as if she had drive the air from his lungs by sitting on him but from the look on his face she could tell he was joking around. In all her years and experiences she would never have thought to meet a man like Canin, he was so normal and down to earth yet so different to any man she had ever met, which was why she loved him. “I have plenty left for you if you are interested!†She whispered as they embraced Canin could barely keep a straight face as they kissed and cuddled.
DefHes Primary Facility, Hesperus II
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
28th November 3066
Walking his Fafnir slowly over the battle raged landscape Duke Peter Steiner-Davion could see this battle was over most of Free Skye’s forces had retreated to their DropShips and began leaving the planet heading for Skye hoping for salvation. Only the First Tikonov Republican Guards continued to stand against Peter’s combined forces and they were being pressed by the three prongs of Peter’s final assault. In the centre Peter and the newly arrived Arcturan Guard Regiments and the Kell Hound Battalion made for a solid force, to the right was Adam Steiner, the Fox’s Teeth and the two defending Lyran Guard Regiments (from Skye’s original defence) and on the left was Alexander Carlyle’s Gray Death Legion, the SLDF and a hog-bodge command led by Lt. General Keane Sortek.
The battle was not over however and Peter continued to push his forces forward hitting a Free Skye Awesome with both his Fafnir’s Heavy Gauss Rifles. The Fafnir really was the ‘mugger’ the Lyran Alliance MechWarriors had nicknamed it the Awesome went down as both supersonic slugs slammed into the Mech and put it down for good. Peter smiled his first official operation in the Lyran Alliance was going well but just then things turned sour the radio crackled “Steiner’s down!†The call went out, the Steiner call was for only one warrior Adam Steiner anchoring Peter’s right flank.
“Confirm!†Peter ordered shouting into his comm. system there was dead silence for several moments.
“Confirmed†a resigned male voice said “a Free Skye Atlas crushed his Hauptmann’s cockpit. No way he survived that wreck.†The man said Peter was shaking uncontrollably of all the people in this fight Adam Steiner had been the most solid, even more so than him, Peter had even been tempted to champion Adam to challenge Katherine instead of himself using Adam’s pure Steiner heritage to their advantage.
“Damn. General Sortek move to Adam’s position with a company in support. Take command of the flank and end the Republican Guard’s fight.â€
“Understood†Keane Sortek said moving off with a group of warriors. Since Peter’s arrival Keane had become a rock for the Lyran forces controlling the troops, liasing with Peter’s forces and the two Lyran Guard units ensuring everyone was working together. Peter continued to push his forces forward as Alexander Carlyle’s Gray Death Legion, supported by the SLDF forces, pushed on one side and when Keane Sortek arrived the forces on that flank began to push again as well. Within hours the Sixteenth Battle of Hesperus II officially ended with the Lyran Alliance firmly back in charge of the world and its manufacturing might.
Not chancing the Free Skye Movement spreading Peter ordered the Gray Death Legion and the Kell Hound Battalion to mount up in DropShips and begin to head for Skye. Before he leaves Hesperus II Peter formally promotes Keane Sortek to full General and in full command of Hesperus II’s defences.
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Love the fact the Grey Death Legion survives in this AU. ;D
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Main Conference Room
Royal Estates, New Glasgow
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
6th December 3066
When Peter Steiner-Davion landed on Skye on the 4th December he found all the regiments of the Skye Rangers and the Tamar Cavaliers all waiting for him. Knowing there was little chance of his regiment surviving an assault from all the forces arrayed against him Peter Steiner-Davion called for a truce and talks with the leaders of Free Skye. Duchess Hermonie Aten and Duke Robert Kelswa-Steiner agreed to meet him for talks.
“I did not come here to fight†Peter started noticing Robert did not look convinced “however I cannot allow Skye to break free from the Lyran realm.†He said Robert looked more than a little angry “you have to understand that we have the Combine causing trouble.â€
“On Skye borders†Hermonie said quietly but Peter continued unabated.
“We have the Jade Falcons ready to charge across our borders and an unstable Free Worlds League. If the Lyran Alliance disintegrates then the Clans will be able to conqueror the Inner Sphere piece-mail.â€
“That is all you and you brother care about, same as your damned brother.†Robert said “It is all you have ever cared about. What happened to the Tamar Pact? What happened to your compassion when defending Tamar? Tamar was destroyed conqueror by the Clans so don‘t tell me you care whether the Clans conqueror the Inner Sphere piecemeal, that has already started.â€
“Let’s think hypothetical here.†Peter said approaching it from another angle the last thing he wanted Free Skye to start using against him was the fact that Tamar was still in Clan hands, the Lyran people or even the entire Inner Sphere could not liberate all the Occupation Zone it would bring more Clans into the mix. “The Skye Province becomes an independent nation.†He noticed both Hermonie and Robert looked pleased with that idea. “The Lyran Alliance withdraw all house forces from the Skye Province. All mercenary units employed by the Lyran Alliance are withdrawn from the Skye Province leaving you with three BattleMech Regiments and four conventional regiments, NO WarShips and a few JumpShips.†Robert nodded that was accurate “now as things stand the Skye Province has no Shipyards capable of building WarShips so you would be stuck without WarShip defence. What would happen if the remnants of the Free Worlds League decided to cross the border with their still impressive WarShip fleet. The Skye units put up a brave face and defend and the Free Worlds troops are driven back.†Robert smiled sure that would be the case “so the Free Worlds remnants begin using a scorch-earth policy using orbital bombardment and NBC weapons to clear any resistance from the Skye Province conquering what little they do not obliterate.†Peter looked to them both seeing Hermonie was near tears and Robert was looking angry as if he wanted to challenge Peter’s version of events but couldn’t without WarShip support Skye would fall, its position near Terra would make it the perfect target and from there the whole Lyran realm and Terra could fall. “Or lets say the Draconis Combine decide to launch a new invasion of the Isle of Skye, remembering that they blame your mother for ordering the killing Omiko Kurita.†He said looking at Hermonie, it was time to take this discussion to its end, the young duchess would hurt after this but Peter had a nation to protect.
“She did not.†Hermonie said resolutely, she would never believe her mother could order such a thing.
“I knew your mother Duchess and believe that she would not have done such a thing but the fact remains that the Draconis Combine have been led to believe that she did. Could the Skye Province hold against the combined might of the Draconis Combine.â€
“The Lyran Alliance would join us in defending out homes and their border from the Combine.†Robert said not believing they would allow the Combine to gain such a foothold.
“Why should we?†Peter said wickedly throwing the fought in there “the Jade Falcons threaten our borders on a daily basis. Why should we risk our necks defending a rouge state from a legitimate one? Please remember that you would be a rogue state not recognized by any realm and not part of the Star League.â€
“We could petition to join.†Robert said knowing the Lyran Alliance could not stop such a thing.
“It’s possible but I am fairly certain that the Lyran Alliance and Federated Suns would vote against such an appointment and what would the Isle of Skye have to offer? Perhaps a base for their troops the Isle of Skye become a new part of the Star League Protectorate.†Peter challenged them, he knew Victor would support him, it was the problems with Skye that had helped end the Federated Commonwealth Alliance and open the door for Katherine to seize power from Victor.
“Hesperus II.†Robert said proudly the financial might of DefHes was nothing to shirk at and the Star League would never turn down such an opportunity to have the factories working for their army.
“What a war ravaged world with a bunch of empty buildings?†Peter asked seeing their confusion “the factories are owned by Defiance Industries which are in-turn owned by the Brewer family. I am sure the Brewer family as a loyal family of the Lyran Alliance would not abandon their home realm and could be convinced to move their factories deeper into the Lyran Alliance.†Peter said, he didn’t actually believe it but it was an option, and knew the Brewers had too much of a hold on Hesperus to ever allow that to happen, but if the Isle of Skye ever tried to gain independence then it would be an option the Lyran Alliance could use.
“Those are Skye factories run by loyal citizens of Skye!†Robert shouted leaning over the table.
“As I understand it they are Lyran factories served by Lyran citizens. At present two Lyran Guard RCTs defend them.†Peter said “granted both units are under strength but I am sure my sister will reinforce them now Hesperus II is back under her jurisdiction.â€
“We will conqueror Hesperus II.†Robert warned
“That will take all your military might Robert leaving your borders weakened to enemy assault. You would loose the Isle of Skye before you even had independence. And if you did succeed on Hesperus II and were not invaded what would stop Katherine dropping three RCTs on this world and another three on Hesperus II or bombarding them from orbit with her WarShip fleet? You are in a no-win situation.†Peter said gravely from their expressions he knew he had hit a nerve. “Living under Lyran control may not be your idea of a great way to live, but at least you will be able to live free and continue to rule your province.â€
“You would allow us to remain in control in Skye? After all we have supported?†Hermonie said quietly looking at Robert. If they remained in power there was still a chance of independence in the future.
“I do not believe that the people of Skye would accept anyone else Duchess. And I may need your support soon.â€
“Our support?†Robert asked carefully he hated the Steiners with all his being, they had abandoned his family and now they were on the brink of removing another family, another dream from him why would he support one? Why should he?
“Here’s the deal I offer. You remain in power and help me oust my sister from the throne of the Lyran Alliance.†Peter said seeing the surprise on their faces “during the Clan War she attempted to abandon the Lyran Alliance for the Federated Suns, a nation safely away from the Clan threat. She was the one we believe ordered the death of Omiko Kurita to hurt Victor and we believe that she may have even ordered the deaths of the Aten family.â€
“That was the Combine.†Hermonie said convinced of the fact.
“Was it? Katherine had everything to gain from blaming it on the Combine while the Combine had little to gain from denying it. They would normally claim honour had been regained however they have remained silent over the matter.†Peter said going deep into the Kurita psyche that was comfortable “Victor also believes that Katherine ordered the deaths of his mother in 3055, almost Morgan Kell’s death, and ordering you father, Ryan Steiner’s death, by hiring the sniper, the sniper that was never caught.†Peter pointed out “all three were political problems to Katherine’s lust for power my mother, the leader of the Commonwealth, your father the leader of Free Skye, and Morgan Kell, supporter of my mother and my brother.â€
“Victor had the same motivations.â€
“True, but Morgan Kell still supports my brother proving to his creditability and Victor has never profited from the deaths that were caused by that bomb.†Peter said venomously Katherine would pay for what she had done if it was the last thing he did.
“Your offer is a good one but…†Robert began to say.
“…It is not enough†Hermonie said quietly “the people of Skye believe in their freedom and without it we will constantly look for a way out of the Alliance. Peacefully or not.â€
“How about I extend my offer?†Peter asked quietly expanding on his own ideas, he knew that if this became public before he was Archon there would be hell to pay, and it could cost him the throne, but it may just work. “This has to stay between the three of us until after Katherine is gone, if it doesn‘t then we could all end up blind-folded against a wall.†He said looking to both “what if I was to make an offer to you that once I was Archon and once things had calmed down, a year from now perhaps a little more that I would grant the people of Skye Province more autonomy. I would devolve some power from Tharkad and give it to Skye. Skye would still be accountable to Tharkad and you would not be truly independent but you would have powers to make your own laws, you own taxes and expand Skye’s defences to protect itself.†Peter was taking a massive risk with this offer but both seemed to understand it and his offer seemed to get to them.
“This could work.†Robert said quietly. Two days later all three appeared on a broadcast sent throughout the Alliance that due to the efforts of Peter Steiner-Davion the Skye Succession Attempt was over and that hostilities had ended. Now Peter was bound by their agreement, something he would have to pay for in the future but for now Skye was at peace. A week later Isis Steiner arrives from the Federated Suns and they both head back to Glengarry to Grayson Death Carlyle’s funeral. Before he leaves Skye Peter places newly promoted General Keane Sortek in charge of Hesperus II’s defences and as a direct liaison to the people of Skye for the LAAF.
Ross 248 Fleet Anchorage
Classified Location, Inner Sphere
20th December 3066
Not believing that mercenaries attacked their garrison on Caph the Word of Blake retaliate against the ComGuards by attacking the Fleet Anchorage at Ross 248 a location hidden deep in the Inner Sphere. In the early morning of the 20th December 3066 a Lola III-class Destroyer enters the system in which the anchorage is hidden. The vessel moves slowly into the system giving all correct codes to make it past the perimeter defensive weapon posts and fighter patrols. The vessel identifies itself as the CSWS Ranger a vessel that went missing during the Star League’s Operation Serpent portion of the annihilation of Clan Smoke Jaguar.
From outward appearances the vessel looks exactly what it claims to be a battered Destroyer with its armour blackened and several systems obviously not operational. ComStar fighters and DropShips patrolling the perimeter allow the vessel to pass. The vessel moves in close and is joined by the WarShip Leader, a Lola-class Destroyer, the less advanced cousin of the Lola-III. As the Ranger closes on the anchorage area and the space docks in the area the Ranger takes several close scans of the ComStar installations and starships then engages its HPG array something strictly forbidden by ComGuard regulations and transmits the data it collected. The vessel is given one order to stand down by the Leader however instead of stopping its scans and transmissions the Ranger opens fire with a broad-side barrage of Naval Autocannons and Naval Lasers gutting the Leader from stem-to-stern and showing that it is a fully operational and very hostile vessel.
As the Ranger turns to make a run for it following the identification of the System’s defences and the destruction of the ComGuard vessel. Unfortunately for the Ranger the ComStar vessel Blake’s Strength, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, famous for defending the Titan Shipyards in 3058, is in position to end the Ranger‘s easy escape. The Blake’s Strength wastes no time in warning the Ranger to surrender with the warning that if they continue the vessel will be destroyed. The Ranger continues forward charging towards the Blake’s Strength’s Broadside guns with a single volley of Naval Autocannons and Capital Missiles the Blake’s Strength’s gunners end the Ranger’s treacherous life tarring the smaller ship apart none of the crew attempt to escape leaving no survivors for the ComGuards to interrogate.
Who was behind the attack is unknown however the message is clear to the ComGuards their anchorage has been discovered, the crew of the Leader try to save their crippled destroyer for twelve hours however it is useless and the Leader is abandoned to the depths of space the next day with self destruct charges being set off finishing the Destroyer for once and for all.
3066 finished
Love the fact the Grey Death Legion survives in this AU. ;D
So far...
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3067
Nadir Jump Point Recharge Station
Kazanka, Tabayama Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
1st January 3067
Following their successes over the border in the Outworlds Alliance the Snow Davens decide to test their luck by challenging the Draconis Combine to a trial. The WarShip White Cloud, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser that once won the Star League’s Martial Olympiad Competition in 2738, was ordered to breach the Draconis Combine/Outworlds Alliance border and challenge the Draconis Combine Jump Point Recharge Station to a trial. If the White Cloud won the trial the Recharge Station would recharge the White Cloud’s K-F Drive and the White Cloud would leave. If the Combine station won then the Snow Ravens would give them a Carrier-class DropShip.
In a short one sided battle the two Snow Raven pilots out fly and defeat their Draconis Combine opponents. Honouring their agreement the Draconis Combine station allows the White Cloud to move alongside the Recharge Station and dock to receive its engine recharge. However just as the WarShip docks the station self-destruct charges explode throughout the station, unable to break loose the White Cloud is caught up in the explosion with a loss of all hands as the Cruiser is incinerated. Clan Snow Raven sends a message to Luthien telling the Draconis Combine they have made a error of massive proportions and the Snow Ravens will take no reconciliation payments and that the Draconis Combine will pay with its own blood. Officially the Draconis Combine blame this dishonourable action on the Black Dragon Society however the truth is unknown.
Meeting Room, Steiner Royal Palace
Tharkad City, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
3rd January 3067
Upon hearing of her Peter’s successes in the Skye Province without having to call for help from Tharkad Archon Katherine Steiner-Davion feels a little left out and decides she has to do something. Singling out Alexander Carlyle and his cohorts that went AWOL from the First Royal Guards RCT, her unit, she dishonourably discharges each of them and charges each with dereliction of duty sentencing them without trial to five years imprisonment. When her Peter finds out about this and before Katherine has made the announcement public he publicly announces that any warrior that helped him are exempt from punishment other than being discharged from service. Katherine goes slightly crazy although she does find out that Peter has allies in the Royal Court and the Estates General’s office, two organisations critical to the running of the Lyran Alliance Armed Forces.
Family Cemetery
Carlyle Estates, Glengarry
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
9th January 3067
In what had originally been planned as a private ceremony Grayson Death Carlyle and Lori Kalmer-Carlyle are laid to rest with over six hundred individuals watching including: Peter Steiner-Davion, Isis Steiner, Victor Steiner-Davion, Jamie Wolf and Morgan Kell. All pay their respects to the fallen leaders and founders of the Gray Death Legion. Following the ceremony Alexander is formally made Baron von Glengarry by Peter Steiner-Davion and Peter presides over the marriage between Alexander and Samantha Logan commander of the Denebolah Warriors. Also before he leaves Victor Steiner-Davion and Ross McKinnon are able to secure a squad of White Knight 64-AV Battle Armour suits from Gray Death Technologies by trading four of the Fox’s Teeth’s Infiltrator Mk. II Battle Armour suits. Victor and the Fox’s Teeth retreat from the Lyran Alliance without Katherine ever knowing they were there so compromised are her links in the Skye region. Peter and Isis accompany Morgan Kell to Arc Royal when the Duke leaves Glengarry with his Kell Hounds that had helped end the Skye Succession attempt.
Pleiades Cluster
Capellan March, Federated Suns
23rd January 3067
Fuelled by reports that Davion mercenaries detonated a nuclear bomb on Taurus destroying large portions of their capital, Samantha, the Taurian Concordat’s Pleiades Hussars and Pleiades Lancers launch a two pronged assault on the Pleiades Cluster. With two Mech Regiments and nearly two regiments of conventional support troops the Taurians quickly spread throughout the Pleiades Cluster and overwhelm the Davion militia troops. Before being deployed to Pleiades the Taurians supplied the two units were heavily upgraded with weapons gained from the Capellan Confederation and several members of the regiments were trained in how to use Nuclear weapons.
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The bulls always were insane maybe they are related to the Smoke Jaguars. That would explain alot.
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So far...
Oh :'(
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So far...
Oh :'(
Well if it makes you feel any better I have mention of them in notes I made for 3115 :) and Marialle Carlyle a member of the regiment. Her brother Vlad fights on Solaris VII
Steel Adder Territory
Tathis, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
2nd February 3067
Clan Fire Mandrill’s newly formed Kindraa Payne-Beyl-Grant assaults Star Adder holdings on Tathis in the form of the Seventeenth Auxiliary Cluster. In a thirteen minute trial the Fire Mandrill troops secure six percent of the Star Adder’s twenty percent of the planet and destroy the 714th Adder Sentinels Cluster of Clan Star Adder’s Rho Provisional Galaxy. Two days later the Star Adders strike back in the form of the Sixth Adder Assault Cluster of Delta Galaxy. The Sixth retakes the territory and wipes out the Fire Mandrill Cluster severely weakening Kindraa Payne-Beyl-Grant and the Fire Mandrill Clan for no gain.
Tikonov, Capellan Confederation Holding
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th-20th February 3067
Newly promoted Marshal Andrew Redburn is appointed to the position of Prince’s Champion within the Federated Suns replacing the departed Peter Steiner-Davion. Andrew Redburn hero of the Clan War and Task Force Serpent as well as commander of the First Kathil Uhlans is a widely popular choice within the Federated Suns and especially the Capellan March.
For his first operation as Prince’s Champion Andrew Redburn is tasked with weakening the Capellan Confederation’s grasp on Tikonov. Instead of a full assault Redburn chooses to take his own First Kathil Uhlans, rebuilt following operation Serpent with a large percentage of Clan tech, and the First Federated Suns Lancers RCT. Supported by a large Battle Armour and aerospace force and using their technological advantage to its fullest the two Regiments break through the Capellan aerospace defence and land on the planet immediately heading into the industrial sectors. Because this is a raid and not an invasion the two Regiments have several companies of ‘dispossessed’ warriors. Although less common than during the Succession Wars, due to larger amounts of Mechs being present, the dispossessed Warrior was a MechWarrior who had lost their Mech in battle and refused to take or been refused a replacement Mech. The only way these warriors would ever pilot a Mech again was if they won a Mech back or stole one, which is exactly what they would be expected to do in this mission. An extra incentive for these warriors was if they got off planet with a Mech it would be their own Mech and they would get their AFFS commission fully back.
Unable to use their full force due to a necessity of defending their DropShips the two Davion units hold out for six hours against superior numbers as techs and the dispossessed warriors break the security codes protecting the new Capellan Mechs then together they walk back to their DropShips and everyone loads back up lifting off planet. Because this was a snatch-and-grab operation from the beginning the DropShips had come half empty and because they were facing Elite Capellan troops there was plenty of room for the Kathil Uhlans, the Lancers and nearly two Battalions of stolen Mechs and combat vehicles. In orbit the WarShip Jason Hasek waited to escort them back to the Jump Point and warn off any Capellan WarShips or aerospace units threatening them.
Star League Command Complex, Kittery
Capellan March, Federated Suns
28th February 3067
Despite warnings from the MRBC, about Company Store policies, the SLDF hire the Crater Cobras Mercenary Regiment on a full time contract intending on making them full time warriors under the Star League Defence Force. The Crater Cobras former members of Baldwin’s Heavy Cobras Brigade can trace their lineage back to the first Star League and to show their devotion to their new path they caste away their Crater Cobras name tag and take on their old name the 789th Striker Regiment. Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion assigns them to the Blue Star Irregular Division as their fourth Brigade, although all the unit has in its brigade is a single Mech Regiment. The Knights of the Inner Sphere which had previously filled that position are moved to the newly named Royal Black Watch Division. The Knights new responsibilities are to secure the Star League Advisory Council Members and Star League Conferences freeing the Royal Black Watch to concentrate on the First Lord and his or her family. The Blue Star Irregulars are unhappy at loosing a unit with the prestige of the Knights of the Inner Sphere however are content at having another former SLDF unit rejoin them.
The Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission on Outreach and Galatea both issue the Star League with a second official warning them that if they continue to hire mercenaries in a ‘company-store’ fashion to build their numbers the MRBC will black-list the SLDF as a legitimate hiring faction.
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Pleiades Cluster Liberation Force
Hasek Spaceport, New Syrtis
Capellan March, Federated Suns
8th March 3067
Tired of the inaction of the First Prince Field Marshal Baron George Hasek gathers together seven mercenary regiments, under contract with the Federated Suns, on New Syrtis and order the to liberate the Pleiades Cluster from Taurian Concordat forces. Supporting these forces is the FSS Reynard Davion, a Davion Block III-class Destroyer, which is assigned to secure the systems of the Pleiades Cluster and annihilate Taurian forces attempting to reinforce or retreat from the Pleiades worlds. This show of force shows House Davion’s determination to hold onto the Cluster from the Periphery realm and the lengths Field Marshal Hasek will go to.
Nyna system, 37.28 ly from Tortuga
New Circe Colony
Nova Cat’s Den
27th March 3067
Finding New Circe had been pure chance a Nova Cat JumpShip assigned to Yvonne Nova Cat (Rosse)’s unit, the New Colony Cluster, had broken down in the system, situated between the Nova Cat’s Den and the Fiefdom of Randis. On Inner Sphere maps it was a system marked as Nyna with a small world with a temperate world in it, once considered to be colonisable but with massive reptiles and snakes on the world that made Mechs seem like toys it had long been considered unsuitable. As they waited for repair crews to arrive the crew explored the system and found that the moon of the system’s fourth planet, a Gas Giant the size of Sol System’s Jupiter, could support life and had large radioactive mineral deposits.
Landing on the planet the Nova Cats had found something else the planet, that would become known as New Circe, they found the planet had a small but definite streak of Germanium the mineral required for JumpShip and WarShip construction. Taking charge of the colony Yvonne (Nova Cat) began setting up a small colony on the planet and called in a Nova Cat military defence force.
Sitting behind her desk in her command DropShip, a Lion-class Military transport vessel originally mothballed from military service and turned into a civilian merchant vessel, Yvonne sat feeding Grayson as Kamesota, the former bondsmen of Galaxy Commander Kelly Hardo, led in Star Captain Travis of the Nova Cat Irregulars Cluster, Rho Provisional Galaxy, marched in Travis was old by Clan Standards now pushing his late forties soon he would be beaten by another younger warrior and his life in service of the Nova Cats would be all but over. “I am here to accept governance of this world and serve in the defence of it in the names of Clan Nova Cat and the Nova Cat‘s Den.†He said glancing at Yvonne’s breast as she fed Grayson a disgusted look crossed his face “Freebirths†he muttered quietly.
“I think not Star Captain.†Yvonne said looking up at Travis for a moment then back at the baby.
“What was that freebirth?†He said taking a step forward astonished at her defiance. Yvonne stopped feeding the baby and calmly took Grayson to the crib standing against the left wall placing the him in the bed before turning back to Travis, her impertinence in front of him was beginning to show his face was going bright red. “This is not your Stavag Inner Sphere now! This is the Clans, a warrior leads freebirths follow.†He said the way he said freebirth made it clear it was an epitaph something dirty and unwanted.
“I think not, Travis†Yvonne said purposefully omitting his rank “the Khan and saKhan placed me in charge here not you. I will remain here and in charge for another three months and ensure that New Circe is fully established before we leave.â€
“And what will stop me taking command? The Khan is in the Homeworlds and your precious saKhan is on New Barcella and…†he feigned surprise “the HPG Array has not been assembled yet. What is to stop my techs not building it until some freeborn slut does what she is told. Surrender command to me now!†He said shouting he had enough of Yvonne and her ways accepting a member of an Inner Sphere noble house in had been the first of many mistakes the Nova Cats had made and Travis planned on righting at least this one before he was retired from service by someone younger. He noticed Kamesota move to protect the child, if Yvonne caused him any more trouble Travis would eliminate the abomination as well.
“I think not.†Yvonne said mater of fact “Star Captain Travis I challenge you to a Trial of Refusal of command of your unit.â€
“WHAT?!†Travis screamed “you cannot challenge me! You are freeborn bitch, you are lucky I do not kill you where you stand for your impertinence!†He shouted stepping forward to grab Yvonne by the throat Yvonne deftly dodged his grab and pinned his hand against the table her eyes never leaving his.
“Wrong Travis, I have every right. You see I qualified as a MechWarrior before DECIDING to serve our Clan as a civilian administrator. Because it was my choice the Khan allowed me to retain my BattleMech and the right to use it in my defence and in my child’s defence. You will meet me in a Trail of Refusal or I will kill you where you stand†she said withdrawing a dagger from a back sheaf “do you agree.†She said playing the blade on his hand, Travis nodded and Yvonne released him. “This afternoon beyond the trees, make sure you take your Mech and don’t forget to close the door behind you.†Yvonne said Travis looked like he would explode as he spoke very quietly.
“Once you are dead I am going to kill you son as well. Until this afternoon milady.†He said bowing his head a wicked smile playing his mouth as he walked out.
“Was that a good idea?†Kamesota asked obviously worried as she quietly stepping in front of the table, Yvonne smiled finding it strange that a woman from the Draconis Combine would be so worried by a woman who had spent most of her life in the Federated Suns. There had been a little tension between them when they first met but that had subsided as they both agreed their life in Clan Nova Cat was completely different from their past. Yvonne found Kamesota very easy to get along with and found her a very competent administrator.
“Maybe, maybe not.†Yvonne said it had been months since she even stepped into her Mech, a Star League-era Striker that had been extensively modified by the Nova Cats. “How are things with the mining operation?†She said switching back to the here-and-now as if nothing had happened. Kamesota looked at her for a moment surprised then began outlining the problems the Nova Cats had been experiencing.
That afternoon Yvonne’s Striker walked out onto the ground selected for the trial opposite her Mech stood Star Captain Travis and his Guillotine IIC. Yvonne noticed the comm. was active and keyed in the channel, it was Travis. “This is your last chance Yvonne, you made this challenge you could stand back, I will not be offended and would not need much to remain quiet about this little insubordination. I’m sure a woman like you could fit what I want.†He said Yvonne could almost see the smile on his face as he licked his lips with the prospect of getting what he wanted.
“Shut up, Travis, I will not be stepping down from this challenge.†Yvonne said feeling sick at the thought of what he was suggesting. Switching frequencies so everyone could hear she spoke again before he could answer. “This is Yvonne Nova Cat, I called for this Trial to end any claim against my authority on this world. This is a Trial of Equals may no other enter.†She said it wasn’t totally right but close enough.
“I am Star Captain Travis of the Nova Cat Irregulars. We are Nova Cats and a warrior should command. This freebirth thinks she is equal to a trueborn, it is time she was showed the true way of the Clans.†Yvonne noticed the comm. was active again and keyed in Travis again “Yvonne, I will try not to mess up your pretty face too much, at least the saKhan will know it is you who lies in the coffin.†He said cutting the frequency back to the general bandwidth “may no other enter.†And with that his Guillotine IIC began to move. His Mech weighed seventy tons hers weighed eighty so she had the advantage in size and her Mech could match the other Mech for movement profile and had heavier armour. Travis’ only advantage was he was a warrior and she was not. That was something Yvonne would not let beat her. Moving with the Guillotine Yvonne fired her Mech’s Ultra-class autocannon mounted in the left arm the shells cut into the Guillotine’s left leg. As Travis attempted to return fire with lasers and Short Range Missiles Yvonne sent her Striker skyward landing to the Guillotine’s far left. Twisting his Mech’s torso to track her Travis opened fire with a PPC and a pair of large pulse lasers devastating the Striker’s left arm and leg destroying the autocannon mounted there. Yvonne’s cool running weapon was gone which hurt but it wasn’t a major loss twisting her Striker’s own torso to match the Guillotine Yvonne triggered both the Extended-Range PPC and the Extended-Range Large Lasers mounted in the torso of the Striker. When the Nova Cats had upgraded this Mech they had upgraded the weapons as well the clan-tech PPC and laser tore into the Guillotine’s right and centre torso sections devastating the lighter Mech’s armour. Turning her Mech on the spot Yvonne triggered both right arm medium lasers causing her Mech’s heat to spike but not uncontrollable while keeping the Guillotine under fire.
Weathering the fire Travis launched his Mech skyward on the Guillotine’s own Jump Jets jumping behind Yvonne attempting to get out of her fire. Instead of trying to track the flying Mech Yvonne sent her own Mech flying again. Travis landed his Mech and immediately spun his Mech’s torso and triggered his weapons again at the spot Yvonne’s Mech had been standing lasers, PPCs and SRMs filled the area where the Striker had been standing but Yvonne’s Mech was nowhere to be seen. Travis looked at his sensors and saw the Striker facing him but in a completely different position than what he had expected. Yvonne triggered the PPC again this time tearing a nasty hole in the leg armour of the Guillotine. Walking her Striker right she twisted the Mech’s torso to keep track of the Guillotine while firing her weapons in sequence PPC, Large Lasers, Paired Medium Lasers, repeat. Her Mech was constantly running the red light on the heat scale and her weapons fire was becoming more erratic as the targeting system failed to cope with the heat however the shots that hit the Guillotine was devastating. First thing to go was the right leg as the knee armour failed and the leg crumpled under heavy fire. Then the pulse laser right arm was disabled as Travis stumbled to the ground smashing the laser’s focussing crystals. Travis attempted to return fire with a PPC blast of his own and a pair of Medium lasers causing some telling damage to the Striker however this was not enough to stop Yvonne who was like a woman possessed. Now not bothering to manoeuvre Yvonne’s Striker was standing there less than one hundred metres from the Guillotine firing a constant barrage of weapons into the seventy ton Mech. Even once it was obvious Travis was dead and the Mech disabled Yvonne kept firing until her own Mech could not deal with the heat and collapsed in a heap.
The next thing Yvonne remembered was waking up lying on a bed in some room devoid of colour just white. For a moment Yvonne wondered if she had died fighting Travis and this was some sort of afterlife however she heard a baby laughing and giggling playing with something that was rattling and looked up there was Kamesota with Grayson on the floor playing with some toys the civilian workers had created for him. Yvonne looked down at them and almost smiled, she had done it. Seeing a glass of water on the side she reached up to it but missed the glass knocking it to the ground Kamesota looked up and saw her “Grayson look it’s mommy! She’s awake - finally†she said scooping him up in her arms “come on let’s see mum.†She said carrying him to the bed lowering him into Yvonne’s arms on the bed then pouring Yvonne another drink handing it to Yvonne who found her hands were shaking almost uncontrollably as she drank the water.
“What happened?†She asked her throat was like sandpaper even with the water.
“You happened and a stupid arrogant Clanner Star Captain paid the price.â€
“Speak plainly it is our custom.†Yvonne said weakly smiling that she was repeating the very words Canin had said so many times as she finished the glass, Kamesota immediately poured another drink “I don’t want more.†She said but Kamesota refused to take the glass.
“You need it, your body has lost nearly eighty percent of its fluids, you’ve been in a coma for the last four days.†Kamesota said as Yvonne realised she was thirsty and began to drink the water.
“What happened to Travis?†She asked if she had been in a coma then she could not have won the Trial, she should really stick to civilian matters.
“He’s dead.†Kamesota said luckily there were no trueborns around to scold their lower-speech patterns “he was probably dead after your second or third full volley of weapons but he was certainly dead when you had finished. Eight full volleys of weapons at less than a hundred metres! Yvonne, I am not a MechWarrior and even I know that was a little bit overkill.â€
“I guess I lost it a little.†She said thinking back to the fight Travis had made her sick so she had cleaned up.
“Well you certainly did that. His Mech is good for scrap and nothing much else. Since you were incapacitated I took charge and looked after this little guy.†Kamesota said stroking Grayson’s head as he lay there not moving as he slept.
“Thanks†she said looking down at Grayson “I hope he wasn’t too much of a problem.â€
“No problem at all, a little darling.†Yvonne gave her a sceptical look then looked down at Grayson “that is after he decided a bottle was good enough.†Kamesota said Yvonne shot her a glance then looked back at her sleeping son.
“He never take’s a bottle from me.â€
“I guess he was hungry and realised mum couldn’t feed him so he compromised to survive, very Clan-like.†She said smiling Yvonne nodded stroking her son’s head even at this young age Yvonne could see that her son would look quite a bit like his father, the Rosse bloodline showing strong in him even though he had been born naturally, it would do him good in the future.
“I guess the military is in charge.†She said since she was unconscious they had no-one to stand up to them.
“You’d guess wrong.†Kamesota said “since you were out of it they wanted the job, but I told them you had been successful and Travis was dead, the rest of the colonists agreed and so you were in charge. Being your aide I took temporary charge.â€
“No challenges?†Yvonne wondered since she was out of it technically they could say Kamesota needed to defend her right to lead.
“Nope. Not to us anyway. With Travis gone they started challenging each other to command. I think Star Commander Michaela won out in the end, which is good for us because she is freeborn and I think she has a little hero-ship for you.†She said as Yvonne rolled her eyes as she finished her second glass, last thing she needed was hero worship for something she was not proud of - combat was not for her never had been, Kamesota poured another glass which Yvonne did not complain about.
“So what’s our status?â€
“Status Quo for the most part only big change is the HPG is up and running.â€
“No-one has told Canin about what happened have they?â€
“I ordered everyone to keep tight-lipped about it and mention none of this in their reports to the saKhan. Thought it was your job to tell the husband how crazy you were feeling on this trip.†Kamesota said smiling Yvonne couldn’t help herself but smile only to feel her lips crack due to the lack of moisture in her body.
“Thanks†she said “this may be a little hard to explain†she said raising her arms.
“Oh one thing that is done is your Mech if fully repaired so if you want to beat up some more warriors go right ahead.†Kamesota said giggling as she walked towards the door.
“Great†Yvonne whispered as Kamesota walked from the room, Yvonne didn’t even know if she wanted to see the Mech again let alone pilot the stupid thing.
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Anyone who says April Fools isn't fun... >:D
CASE WHITE
Various points, Sol System
1st April 3067
Years of planning had come down to this singular moment in time. At 0600 Hours of the 1st April 3067 ComStar turned on the Word of Blake nearly completely abandoning their posts in the Free Rasalhague Republic and throughout the Inner Sphere to launch a full offensive against Terra beginning Operation Case White, the Liberation of Terra. Throughout the Terran system ComStar WarShips and JumpShip enter and begin their assaults on Word of Blake installations or units. In the opening hours twelve ComStar WarShips are destroyed as are two ComGuard Armies, the Eleventh and Seventh, as Dortmund and Reliant, two of ComStar’s three Intrepid-class Troop Cruisers, carrying the troops are cut to pieces by the Terran Satellite and Ground Based Space Defence Systems. Throughout the system heavier Word of Blake resistance than expected is found.
The Vision of Truth, ComStar’s only Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser is torn open to space as the Swift Justice a previously ComStar aligned Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser fires three full broadsides into the vessel then self-destructs before ComStar can act in response. Luckily for the ComGuards most of the Vision’s twenty-five DropShips are able to get clear of the wreck before it explodes.
This is not to say the Word of Blake has everything its own way eighteen Word of Blake WarShips are destroyed in the opening engagements. Both sides resort to Santa Ana-class Nuclear Anti-WarShip missiles to engage each other’s naval forces. The ground war on Terra and Mars begin as does the first battles of the Titan Shipyards. ComGuard troops land throughout Asia, Europe and North America however on the ground they find far more opposition than they were expecting. On Terra the city of Riga in Eastern Europe is destroyed by a nuclear explosion that destroys the 182nd Division that had overrun local Terran Security (Terra Sec) forces that had been defending the city. Throughout the operation more and more Word of Blake units appear to be arriving showing ComStar just how badly they underestimated the Word of Blake’s true numbers.
Towards the end of the initial battle the ComGuard Second Independent WarShip Squadron, the three vessels assigned directly to Precentor-Martial’s Anastasius Focht arrive in the Terran system thinking the worse of the fighting is over however just then a Farragut-class Battleship, identifying itself as the Righteous Justice, a never seen before vessel jumps in almost right on top of them and attempts to kill Focht. Only the superior speed and manoeuvrability of the Terra, the Precentor-Martial’s Artemis-class Vessel, is able to save the Precentor Martial while the Avenging Sword and Immortal Spirit, the two escorting Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers are left to deal with the Farragut allowing Focht to land on the planet landing in Sydney, Australia one of the few places ComStar have secured. In near Terra orbit the two Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser strike Naval Autocannon, laser and missile barrages into the Farragut while it tries unsuccessfully to destroy the Terra. However although this causes heavy damage to the Battleship once the vessel realises it will not kill the Terra the Word of Blake gunners turn on the two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, the Immortal Spirit is destroyed in a single broadside of Heavy Naval Gauss Rifles and the Avenging Sword has no choice but to ram the Righteous Justice taking both craft into Terra’s atmosphere. The two ruined hulls come to rest on the North American Rocky Mountain Ranges leaving a monumental clean up operation to follow the Battle of Terra.
Although no more full units are destroyed casualties on both sides are mounting hourly as neither side gives ground to the enemy. ComStar forces identify the Thirteenth and Fifteenth Marik Militias operating within the Word of Blake forces on Terra both units had been previously marked as AWOL by FWL factions.
Terra, Various Locations
Titan Shipyards, Terra System
8th April 3067
Across Terra the devastation is steadily increasing in the city of Hong Kong, in Asia, the Eighty-first and Eighty-second Divisions of the Second Army destroy three Divisions of Word of Blake identified as the Ninth, Tenth and Twenty-second however they themselves are destroyed when a Word of Blake satellite undetected during the initial invasion activates and launches three Santa Ana-class Nuclear missiles into the city destroying the ComGuard forces and the City before ComStar naval forces can destroy the satellite. Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht orders the Terran SDS destroyed by the surviving ComStar WarShips eliminating the threat they posse to further invasion forces despite the fact this will cripple ComStar‘s ability to defend the system if and when they do secure if from Blakist hands.
Soon after Focht gives this order a Word of Blake Winchester-class Cruiser, a Taurian Concordat WarShip design, makes a fast pass by of Terra breaking through the ComGuard WarShip blockade shattering the Determination, a Vincent Mk 39-class Corvette and dropping three Overlord-class DropShips onto Terra. Inside these DropShips are the Fifteenth and First Divisions of the Word of Blake, from where these have been recalled is unknown. The Winchester continues out of Terran space joining Word of Blake WarShip forces in orbit of Mars and Titan.
On the plus side for the Word of Blake ComGuard Marines are repelled from all the Titan Shipyard facilities and five Word of Blake WarShips including the Blake’s Sword, a McKenna-class Battleship, are able to secure the shipyards from anything other than a full assault. This also allows the Blakist WarShips to repair their battle wary vessels.
Throughout Chaos March
Ross 248 and Luyten 68-28 (Anchorages)
10th April 3067
Throughout the Chaos March Word of Blake troops begin causing heavy damage to anything and everything Divisions labelled as the Twentieth, Twenty-fifth, Twenty-sixth and Twenty-seventh begin causing untold destruction throughout the Chaos March. Wolf’s Dragoons, Northwind Highlanders and Dismal Disinherited form the Allied Mercenary Command to counter these four Divisions and any force supporting them or causing trouble in the Chaos March.
At the Ross 248 and Luyten 68-28 Naval Anchorages Word of Blake WarShips attack the ComGuard forces based there. Although in both cases the Word of Blake WarShips attacking are destroyed by the ComGuard defenders in both cases the Faslane-class vessels based at the two bases are destroyed before the Word of Blake vessels are reducing the ComGuards ability to repair their WarShips following heavy damage.
First Battle Armour Corps Command
New Canton, Capellan Confederation
12th April 3067
During the attacks in the Chaos March the First Battle Armour Corps came under direct assault from forces belonging to the Word of Blake. These troops targeted the Racicre River Raiders Regiment of the First Division’s Third Brigade and the First Battle Armour Corps Command buildings. Although the arrival of the rest of the Third Brigade ensured the two Blakist Divisions did not escape the planet they did enough damage to destroy the Racicre River Raiders, a regiment formed from several former-ComGuard officers who had joined the SLDF. The Racicre River Raiders were folded into the other Regiments of the Third Brigade at least temporarily.
Following the securing of New Canton General Harry Sanders commander of the First Battle Armour Corps, himself injured during the attack, transmitted a message to the AMC that the SLDF were fully willing to stand with the AMC and eradicate the Word of Blake from the Chaos March. During this period Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion deploys the Devil’s Advocates Battalion to the Chaos March to begin to clean up the mess the Word of Blake had caused.
Carver V
Chaos March
21st April 3067
On the relatively peaceful world of Carver V in the Chaos March a revolution begins. For years the world had been torn in three by nobles of House Steiner, Liao and Davion each of whom had vied for control of the world and the people had suffered. With the World of Blake’s recent attacks in the Chaos March even more damage had been done to the civilian population centres, the ancient SLDF fortifications and the Succession State bases had barely been touched, it was the people who were suffering.
Hiring a relatively unknown Mercenary BattleMech operator known as The BattleCorps. The BattleCorps had formed from nearly nowhere with a Battalion of Mechs and some support assets. In a few short weeks The BattleCorps remove the Steiner, Liao and finally Davion forces on the world either doing enough damage to convince them to leave, House Steiner, Annihilating them totally like House Liao or negotiating for their withdrawal under the threat of the BattleCorp’s guns House Steiner. House Davion’s troops withdraw on good terms with the leaders of the world, dealing in weapons and supplies during the entire campaign.
Following a couple of weeks of reorganisation on Carver V the new government decide that the world will be renamed Liberty in honour of the sacrifices made by the population to bring the world to its position of freedom. The BattleCorps are offered a position as the core of the new planetary militia however after a recruitment drive and reorganisation of their own forces, now standing at two Battalions the BattleCorps commanders announce that they are pulling out and heading for the Periphery for an unknown job, the BattleCorps help equip a small military on Liberty then lift off. The Liberty government contacts the Allied Mercenary Command for additional protection, an AMC unit is dispatched to Liberty for short term protection.
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Clan Fire Mandrill Territory
Atreus, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
3rd May 3067
On a Clan world, that shares the name of the former Free Worlds League Capital, Clan Fire Mandrill undergoes another political revolution as Kindraa Mick-Kreese and Kindraa Kline merge to form Kindraa Mick-Kreese-Kline. This is not an alliance of equal standing however Kindraa Kline, formerly one of the Fire Mandrill’s strongest factions, has taken heavy damage fighting the Star Adders and is defiantly a junior-partner of this alliance.
Fifteen Kilometres outside Memoria
Martial Olympiad
Tukayyid, Free Rasalhague Republic
5th May 3067
On fields that had once been blood-baths for the ComGuards and the Clans during the Battle of Tukayyid a different type of battle took place, the Martial Olympiad. The Martial Olympiad had been an event originally sponsored by the first Star League and this time sponsored by the reborn Star League and ComStar, although in a limited fashion from the former due to the continuance of Operation Case White. This Martial Olympiad marked the return of the competition after an absence for 331 years originally held on Outreach the Wolf’s Dragoons refused to allow so many armed foreign troops on their soil so Tukayyid was chosen with the main events taking place at the Focht War College training grounds and on ground fifteen kilometres north of the ComStar capital city Memoria.
The idea of the Martial Olympiad was for each faction of the Star League and beyond to send a group of troopers that would represent the best that nation could offer and they would compete against members of other nations over five months and the winner would be declared at the end of the competition in October.
All of the Succession Lords each sent a Battalion’s worth of troops to compete while the Periphery realms and the Clans even also sent troops to mark such an event of the return of the Martial Olympiad and prove their warriors were the best in the Inner Sphere. ComStar and the Word of Blake both sent a force of troops and despite the continuing fighting in the Terran system both agreed to fight within the rules. With so much armed troops from so many factions present the Star League Defence Force was out in force to ensure things did not get out of hand.
Although the Martial Olympiad is supposed to be a political free zone it becomes quite obvious this from the opening ceremony this will not be the case when Capellan Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao refuses to allow his MechWarriors to take place instead allowing the Magistracy of Canopus to represent the Capellan Confederation as well as their own realm. In a strange turn of events the Rubinsky’s Light Horse, a Mercenary regiment, arrive as the representative unit of the St Ives Compact. Colonel Marko Rubinsky tells the assembled house troops that the Rubinsky’s Light Horse regiment have separated from the Korsakov’s Cossacks, their sister regiment, and become house troops of the St Ives Compact. Korsakov’s Cossacks leave the St Ives Compact for a contract with the Federated Suns.
First Prince’s Office, Fox’s Den
Mount Davion Mountain Range, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th May 3067
As the Martial Olympiad competition continued on Tukayyid, the fighting in the Terran system continued and the mercenary force assembled by Baron George Hasek began wiping out the last of the Taurians in the Pleiades Cluster there was little for Victor Steiner-Davion to do in his office deep inside the command complex of the Fox’s Den deep under the Davion mountains however he liked going down into the mountains for a couple hours ever day just to keep up to date with the goings on of the AFFS active operations and to rub shoulders with the people commanding these operations, ensuring everyone knew he was interested in what was happening. In the far side of the mountain range, in a specially hardened area, was the Mechbay and his Dire Wolf, Prometheus, Victor wished he could strap into the Mech and go fight someone but that was not necessary so he resisted the urge and got to work.
There was a knock on the door Victor looked up, he hadn’t expected any visitors, rarely did anyone bother the First Prince when he was working unless it was something important. “Come in†he called placing down the notepaper he had been working with looking up at the door. As the door swung open Victor realised that it was not one of his officers that was coming in, not unless flowing white dresses had become the uniform of the AFFS, instead Danai Centrella-Davion entered the room a smile crossing her face. Dressed in a white dress with a dark blue belt, which had a Federated Suns-styled Sword-and-Sunburst belt buckle, Danai wore her long brown hair up making her look taller. Closing the door behind her Danai rounded the table pushing Victor’s chair back on its casters and sitting on his knee. “Well hello†Victor said, Danai said nothing and leaned in kissing him lightly as they broke Victor just sat looking at her “what is it?†He whispered, not that anyone could hear them anyway.
“Something has happened…†She said beginning Victor almost immediately broke in.
“Not to Burton?†He asked worried about his son, he never expected himself to be such close to a son or daughter but he was close to Burton and loved every minute he was with him and with Danai if anything happened to them he didn‘t know if he could continue.
“Not that I know of, last I saw he was happily annoying the guards in the Palace.†she said smiling as she thought about it the members of the First Davion Guards assigned to the defence of the palace were beginning to find out what it was like to look after children and from what she had seen they were enjoying their assignment more by the day with Burton playing as many tricks on them as he wanted and getting away with it. Not only was the Royal Palace the most prestigious assignment in the AFFS but it was also becoming one of the most enjoyable, something Victor saw no problems with in every command he had taken a relaxed atmosphere always seemed to keep people more focused, why not have this atmosphere at home as well?
“Then what?†He asked he hadn’t heard about anything happening in the Magistracy although he knew Danai kept close tabs on her home realm and the family she had there. “It isn’t something back home is it?†he asked quietly although he did not care much for the Magistracy due to their alliance with the Capellans he knew Danai did care so he listened to what she thought about them and their problems.
“Not that I know of, only that Sun-Tzu allowed them to lead the Capellan delegation on Tukayyid. But I guess you know about that?†Victor nodded Andrew Redburn leading the Federated Suns delegation on Tukayyid had informed him of that development with Sun-Tzu allowing the Magistracy‘s MechWarriors to represent the Capellan Confederation at the opening ceremony of the Martial Olympiad making news across the Inner Sphere. “No this is far more personal.†She said quietly “I want this to stay between us for a while.†She said Victor nodded if that is what she wanted he would do it. “I need your promise.â€
“Danai, you have my word that anything you say with stay between us for as long as possible.†Victor said now completely captivated wondering what exactly she was on about.
“I’m pregnant.†She said smiling Victor’s face went from surprise to shock to delirious happiness in less than thirty seconds as the words reached him, they were having another baby, a broad smile crossed his lips it hadn‘t been planned but Victor thought things like this should never be planned. “Now you promised this would be our secret.†She warned remembering his reaction when Victor learned of Burton being on the way.
“I promise not a word will leave my lips about this wonderful, wonderful news.â€
“Wonderful, that’s one way to describe it†Dania said sounding slightly resigned.
“Something wrong?†He wondered if she even wanted more children.
“No, not really†she said “it’s just you don’t have to carry it!†She said bursting into laughter Victor joined her with a deep booming laugh together they sat there for more than an hour talking, laughing and cuddling as the work around them continued in the Fox’s Den. Occasionally the people working in the Fox’s Den would look up as Victor or Danai burst into laughter at something the other had said however these were not annoyed glances from the workers who returned to their jobs with smiles on their faces, whatever had happened the First Prince was pleased which could only be good for them and the Federated Suns.
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Across Inner Sphere, Periphery
And Clan Occupation Zones
18th May 3067
Across the Inner Sphere, Periphery and Clan Occupation Zones on capital worlds, commerce worlds and important military command worlds a series of massive car-bombs explode almost within an hour of each other despite the long distances involved. On New Avalon the Royal Court at the foot of Mount Davion is heavily damaged killing hundreds while on Northwind a bomb blast kills four of the Clan Elders while another on Outreach severely injures Colonel Maeve Wolf, operational commander and overall second-in-command of the Dragoons. The most dangerous explosions however are the bombs detonated on Tamar, Sudeten, and Alshain the capital worlds of the Clan Occupation Zones. With the Fifteen-year Truce of Tukayyid so close to being ended, technically ends at end of May 3067 but Clans choose to wait until 3068 before acting honouring the agreement made by ilKhan Ulric Kerensky with Anastasius Focht more than they need to ensure no Spheroids can complain also the Martial Olympiad has them a little preoccupied at present.
On Tukayyid Star League Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion meets with Lieutenant-General Marcus Johnson, commander of the Special Arms Service Division, and orders the SAS to find and destroy the terrorists responsible using any means necessary. That afternoon the SAS leave Tukayyid heading for the Chaos March to begin operations. Following the SAS deployment off Tukayyid a bomb blast destroys an Annex for the Martial Olympiad competitors which wipes out the ComStar Delegation’s command staff. All eyes turn on the Word of Blake as someone to blame for the blasts that have rocked the Inner Sphere however just after midnight that same night a bomb blast destroys the Word of Blake Annex wiping out almost all the Word of Blake personnel. Both ComStar and the Word of Blake withdraw from the Martial Olympiad.
Tikograd
Tikonov, Capellan Confederation Holding
Capellan March, Federated Suns
28th May 3067
Allowed into the fortress-city capital of Tikonov, Tikograd, by Davion supporters and agents the Second Davion Guards RCT had been ordered to show the Davion flag to the Tikonov population and do as much damage to pro-Capellan forces without badly damaging the city or killing lots of civilians. The AFFS knew the Capellans would claim the AFFS killed a large amount of civilians as propaganda to be used against the AFFS to the Inner Sphere and to the people of Tikonov, but they wanted the real numbers of deaths kept as low as possible. “Damn-it!†Leftenant-General Gerald Mitchell cursed not for the first time today as the a Capellan Mech that had been playing Cat-and-Mouse with his Summoner for the last hour disappeared behind another building. The Summoner was a Clan designed OmniMech he’d captured serving on the Lyran/Jade Falcon border and although it was a decent Mech overall he’d taken his own step by modifying it to carry a Davion Rotary Autocannon which dealt far more damage than the standard LB-X autocannon seen in the Primary Clan configuration although the ammo linkages had been difficult to set up long hours of work with some of the Second Davion‘s best techs had got the linkage to work. Backing up the autocannon was a Clan-built Extended-Range PPC and a pair of Clan-built Heavy Medium Lasers, these weapons were brand-new in the Clans arsenal and he was sure they were unique in the Federated Suns arsenal. Rounding out his Summoner’s weapons array was a central mounted anti-missile system. Because the Mech now used Inner Sphere and Clan weapons systems the Second Davion’s techs had replaced the targeting and tracking system with a Davion-built tracking system better suited to cope with the weapons, the system was a little inferior but not too much to make any major changes in the Summoner’s performance or internal systems while allowing his weapons to work far more effectively. “Call it out.†He said into the comm. as the Capellan Mech withdrew.
“Two here, just barely.â€
“Three operationalâ€
“Four here, sir, can confirm presence of McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry boss.†Gerald nodded he’d seen McCarron’s insignia as well. Against the Davion Guards were at least three combined arms Battalions of ground troops that were using the city’s urban environment to make accurate long range fighting impossible and the civilians on the ground as human shields to keep one step ahead of the Davion troops.
“Rendezvous with command company at point Gamma. And someone get me the Admiral, he is not going to like this.†He said Fleet Admiral William Kossacks commanded the Second Davion, although a fighter pilot he understood ground battles as well and let Gerald make most of the decisions about the ground campaign while leading his fighters against impossible odds in the air and in dangerous ground strikes, more than once had he almost been killed while saving some ground troops from enemy fire that went a long way to gaining the ground pounders respect and made the fighter pilots feel truly alive and appreciated. Moments later the Admiral’s face appeared on the screen, his face encased in the helmet of an aerospace fighter, the Admiral was obviously leading the RCT’s six aerospace wings from his fighter. The Capellans had put up little resistance to the aerospace wings so they had begin blowing up grounded DropShips and Capellan command bunkers at their leisure, it was no shock that William Kossacks was in his own aircraft having a crack at the Capellans.
“What’s up General? Where are we? Give me the short version.†He said his voice strained as his fighter pulled off a high-g manoeuvre.
“We have secured the front gates but can get little further.†Gerald said giving him the shortest version possible.
“Okay give me a slightly bigger view Mitchell, why?â€
“The Capellans are using the Tikonov people and the buildings as human-shields. I can push through but the causalities will raise as will collateral damage.â€
“Estimates?â€
“Minimum ten-thousand casualties and possible a billion C-Bills of damage in property if we need to fully engage in the city. That assumes the population have been evacuated for the most part. If not your looking at fifty to one hundred thousand civilian casualties.â€
“Damn. Alright abandon the city. Blow the main gates as you leave then circle around and hit the Spaceport then rendezvous back at the DropShips.â€
“We are not staying?â€
“Negative, this is a raid not an invasion. I have reports of at least two more Regiments of Capellans mobilizing to head this way, my fighters can hold them and are hampering their movements but we cannot hold this ground today.â€
“That gives them three regiments minimum.†Gerald said thinking out loud “how did DMI underestimate them so badly?â€
“It seems the Capellans are putting warriors in the majority of the equipment instead of running our blockade to get them back to the Confederation. DMI got set up good by the Capellans, this was a trap to kill a Davion RCT, I will not let that be the Second get moving Mitchell.†He said moving rapidly Kossacks was either under fire or giving out some serious punishment and manoeuvring away rapidly.
“Damn them†Gerald cursed transmitting the data to his troops keeping them in the loop, Tikonov had dozens of factories producing roughly a Regiment of equipment a week. If ever month one DropShip made it to Tikonov and they carried a full battalion of warriors then Tikonov could have a full regiment of troops ever three months not a pretty sight.
“Damn them indeed General. Hit the Spaceport then let’s get out of here. We’ll be back but next time we will have a bigger force with us.†He promised cutting the link Gerald began mobilizing his ground troops for a move hitting the Capellan controlled spaceport causing heavy damage and enemy casualties before leaving. A week later the Second reported to the prince of the situation on Tikonov and the Capellans blamed the Second Davion for causing more than one hundred thousand civilian deaths during the raid, exactly what had been expected.
Federated News Service Studio
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th June 3067
Almost every minute another show would begin on the thousands of news, entertainment and current affairs channels that existed on New Avalon and there were even more in the wider Federated Suns. However tonight’s edition of the Avalon Gazette show was a special event for two reasons: the first was because it was the first show that Maria Clarkson had ever been the anchor on, over the last few months she had chosen to change from being a reporter to being a presenter and, the second important event had given her the springboard needed to propel her into the next stage of her career.
For tonight’s show, which would be about one thing, Maria had chosen a light blue business suit with a dark green low cut top underneath showing just enough of her chest to keep the male audience interested while being formal enough not to loose the female audience. Her long blonde hair was arranged over her shoulders and back. “Ladies and gentlemen welcome to the Avalon Gazette†she said spreading her arms to either side as she stepped into the tri-vid camera’s view. “Tonight we have a special announcement that is sure to be a momentous event throughout the Federated Suns.†She said as Victor Steiner-Davion’s image appeared behind her, it was a picture taken at his coronation over a decade before “Victor Steiner-Davion, Duke of New Avalon, Clan War Hero, First Prince of the Federated Suns and tipped to be the next First Lord of the Star League Defence Force at the next Whitting Conference on Orestes at the end of this year, at least by this reporter.†She said smiling, it was widely believed by many that Victor would be the next First Lord however rarely did anyone say it out loud in fear of ‘jinxing’ Victor’s victory. A second picture appeared alongside Victor Steiner-Davion this one of Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion on the day of her arrival on New Avalon for the first time dressed in a simple dark green jumpsuit with the SLDF’s Cameron Star on the left breast. “Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion, Duchess of Canopus (in-Exile), wife to Victor, mother of the heir to the throne and a hero of the Clan War.†Maria said, she wished that she had more information on Danai but to go deeper would force her to mention House Liao and she would not do that, not tonight anyway she would leave that to someone else. A third picture appeared this one of Burton Davion making his first public appearance at the Panpour shipyard at his unveiling then merging into another more recent one accompanying his mother to the school he would be going to next year. “Burton Davion, heir to the throne of the Federated Suns, almost ready to begin making his mark on the history of the Federated Suns, an only child.†She said the last part would normally be left out but Maria had chosen to keep it to make sure everyone knew the significance of today’s event “Ladies and gentlemen. It is my great pleasure to announce, and be the first to offer her congratulations, that Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion is carrying her second child and that soon Burton will have a baby brother or sister. Although we do not know when this baby is due to be born sources suggest that it could be at the end of this year or the beginning of the next. Whatever the date we would like to wish the First Couple of the Federated Suns all the joy and best wishes from the Federated News Network.†She said Maria would talk for another hour about the couple and talk to several experts and she would talk to some other people who had other takes on their relationship and the strange disappearance of Yvonne Steiner-Davion, a disappearance that no-one had really covered in the Federated Suns only that the First Prince knew where is sister was and knew she was happy. Watching the broadcast from the Davion Royal Palace high on Mount Davion Victor and Danai laid in bed realising that tomorrow their secret would be out across the Federated Suns, they had known this would happen for but the two months that it was only them who knew had been golden months.
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Grand Council of the Clans
Clan Council Chambers, Clan Hall
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
21st June 3067
For once every Khan of the Clans was present in the Council Chambers and every saKhan was either with them or watching via communication’s link, the saKhan of the Jade Falcons Samantha Clees among them watching from the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone. Khan Marthe Pryde smiled it was justice that all the Khans were here, even the ever missing Nova Cat and Ghost Bear Khans were present, to witness this evidence being presented and the betrayal the Jade Falcons had uncovered.
“My fellow Khans†she said addressing the warriors of equal rank assembled, she cared little for the saKhans beside them “Several months ago the Jade Falcons challenged the Diamond Shark Clan over its practices in the Inner Sphere and informed them that we believed they were trading Clan technology to the Inner Sphere realms today we can prove this.†She said trying to make her statement sound as shocking and surprising as possible, to her own surprise she noticed few of the Khans even cared “In the Inner Sphere the Diamond Sharks have claimed three worlds one within Clan Jade Falcon territory, one within the Ghost Bear Dominion and one within the Draconis Combine. At these worlds they have set up trade outposts in which they trade technology to the realms and powers all around. The Jade Falcon WarShips patrolling our Occupation Zone, which the Diamond Shark world is part of, have detected three Lyran Alliance transports enter and exit the Twycross system without challenge. We have also discovered several Ha Otoko and Mad Cat Mk. II BattleMechs operating with the Lyran Alliance, ComStar and the Draconis Combine. These Mechs are built with Clan technology and give the Inner Sphere powers a sizeable boost in combating us when the invasion resumes. I call for the Diamond Sharks to answer this charge and for this council to censer the Diamond Sharks if these charges come true.â€
“The Khan of Clan Diamond Shark Barbara Sennet is asked to answer this charge.†Loremaster Kael Pershaw said. The Diamond Shark Khan stood nearly immediately.
“Firstly I would like to correct the Jade Falcon Khan on her mistake of our territory held. We control four Inner Sphere worlds after recently claiming a Lyran Alliance world, Hamilton, as another trade world. As well as holding several periphery worlds to be used as trade worlds.†She said glancing at Khan Santin West of Clan Nova Cat and Khan Lynn McKenna of Clan Snow Raven, soon the Snow Ravens would join them in handing over a world, or so was the hope. “As for her charge that we are trading Clan BattleMech technology to the Inner Sphere with fully operation weapons I ask what if we are.†There was stunned silence at the question as if no-one had expected such defiance. “Of all the Clans the Jade Falcons are most tradition bound of our brethren.†Barbara said her voice full of praise and just a little mocking, the Jade Falcons were one step from being as ridged as the Smoke Jaguars were and everyone knew what happened to them. “The Jade Falcons have always said that their warriors are superior to any other so what difference does it make if we are trading standard Ha Otoko and Mad Cat Mk. II designs to the Inner Sphere. The mighty Jade Falcons should have nothing to fear.†Now her voice was full of mocking and Marthe Pryde had picked up on it.
“You do not deny you are trading technology to the Inner Sphere, Quineg?†As a fellow Khan Barbara had no need to answer the interrogative question but the Diamond Shark Khan looked right at Marthe Pryde.
“Neg†she said “and we will defend our rights to sell to the highest bidder in a Trial if need be. After all it is only technology, the warrior makes the battle.â€
“There is need I challenge the Diamond Sharks to their rights to trade technology to the Inner Sphere. The merchant Clan has gone too far.â€
“Fine with us, name your place and time. We will defend it with the second-line Mechs you are so worried about us trading to the Inner Sphere and show the Jade Falcons that it is the warrior not the technology that makes superior warriors, just like Twycross.†Barbara said rubbing the loss of the world in the Jade Falcons nose just a little bit.
“Then your warriors will meet the Jade Falcons on the plains south of here tomorrow.†Marthe Pryde said, it wasn’t a question. “And to prove we are not afraid at the technology you speak of we will also field a second-line unit for the battle. If the Diamond Sharks loose then they will cease trading to the Inner Sphere. Agree?â€
“Agreed†Barbara Sennet said, it was dangerous but she believed her warriors were more than capable.
“Seyla!†every Clansmen in the room said ending the ritual now they would wait until tomorrow and settle the dispute. The rest of the clan council went as planned then the council broke up with various Khans leaving for other duties or long journeys to the Inner Sphere. Outside the Council chambers Marthe Pryde was met by Galaxy Commander Timur Malthus, the former saKhan of the Jade Falcon Clan.
“Timur it has been a long time.â€
“Aff†Timur said Samantha Clees had defeated him and Timur had returned to commanding the Jade Falcons primary Homeworlds Galaxy.
“Walk with me.†Marthe said she would not just stand, there were things to do. “And how are the warriors of Sigma Galaxy?â€
“Ready to win this trial.†Timur said quietly.
“Good, I am glad. Galaxy Commander, I have another job for you.†Marthe said stopping in the corridor “in one hour I am climbing aboard a DropShip and then rendezvousing with the Emerald Talon which had moved in system. I need someone to oversee this trial.â€
“The Loremaster is next in line.â€
“The Loremaster is also Loremaster of the Grand Council. I need a Jade Falcon not swayed by popular opinion.†Marthe said looking at Timur “I need you Galaxy Commander.â€
“I can do this.†Timur said smiling “I assume Samantha Clees will be returning?â€
“Neg, the saKhan is needed in the Inner Sphere. I am making you my official Proxy in the Clan Council. You will have all my powers and be able to speak on my behalf in the Clan Council. Effectively the Jade Falcons will have two saKhans, the other Clans will not approve but I care little for what they think.†Marthe said looking at Timur who did not look happy, obviously not happy about the fact he would have to share a post he once held exclusively. “Do you accept this duty for the Jade Falcons, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, I accept.†Timur said quietly, she knew that he would, he could use this to rebuild his power and if Samantha Clees ever was killed then he could attempt to regain his position as saKhan, something Marthe would never allow, Timur was too smart for his own good and Marthe would not allow him to regain such a position, this was as far as he would get.
“I am glad. Now away and win that trial†she said Timur nodded and walked off Marthe watched him for a moment then disappeared herself heading for the DropShip, the Inner Sphere beckoned her more and more nowadays, the politics that brought her back to the Homeworlds were such a bore and waste of precious time.
At the other side of the Clan Council Chambers Barbara Sennet caught up with Khan Santin West walking back towards the Nova Cat Hall “Khan West, a moment of your time?â€
“Aff, a moment.†West said not slowing his pace he cared little for the Diamond Sharks selling technology to the Inner Sphere as he himself had done so with the Federated Suns. As long as the Diamond Sharks maintained the secret surrounding the Nova Cat’s new home for a few more months that was enough for him.
“How would the Nova Cats like to secure another forty percent of Barcella?†That stopped Santin who turned and looked at the Diamond Shark Khan. A MechWarrior by birth Barbara was shorter than Santin and far more fragile looking, although Santin knew appearances could be deceiving and that she was nothing of the sort a fragile person, she was now pushing forty-two years old and among most Clans she would be considered past her best. Fortunately for her the Nova Cats and Diamond Sharks, to a lesser degree, respected age.
“That is all of the Diamond Shark territory on Barcella, Quiaff?†Gaining that much territory would be quite a gain for the Nova Cats.
“Aff†she said.
“What would the Diamond Sharks want for such territory?â€
“The technical readouts of a few Nova Cat vehicles and of the new Nova Cat ProtoMech design.â€
“Is that all?†Santin asked surprised they would be willing to trade their technology for so little.
“Neg†Barbara said smiling stepping closer to West lowering her voice “we would like access to the Nova Cat naval facilities.â€
“What facilities would that be?†Santin said playing the stupid Elemental so many of his opponents had taken him for and paid the price.
“The facility in the Varnay system, where you built the Severn Leroux and her sister ships.â€
“We modified vessels to the Anna Rosse-configuration.†Santin said
“We have vessels we wish to modify. We have the design specifications and the materials we just need facilities close to or in the Inner Sphere. Facilities we can trust completely.â€
“The Nova Cats and Diamond Sharks have always been close.†Santin said “forward your needs to me and I will see how we can accommodate you. If everything works out the Nova Cats will take control of Barcella. Agreed?†Santin asked Barbara stood there for several moments thinking then nodded her agreement. “Good then I wish you luck with your trial.â€
“We have already won.†Barbara said confidently walking off. The Diamond Shark Khan had rights to be confident the next day a second-line Diamond Shark Cluster handed the Jade Falcon Second-Line unit a stinging defeat after nearly sixteen hours battling on the plains of Strana Mechty. Khan Santin West confirmed the Diamond Shark request to use the Nova Cat Varnay system shipyards then sent word to the Nova Cat’s Den and saKhan Canin Rosse that he needed more troops and he needed his saKhan in the Homeworlds by march the following year, the Nova Cats were ready to tell the rest of the Clans where they had made their new Homeworlds.
Jezersko
Ghost Bear Dominion
4th July 3067
Contracted by House Kurita to raid the Ghost Bear Dominion under the guise of other Clans the Black Thorns, a unit of fifteen Battle and OmniMechs many of Clan origin, are ambushed by a hidden force of Ghost Bears well aware of the who the Black Thorns are and their intensions. The Black Thorns commanded by a brother and sister team from Northwind are known throughout the Inner Sphere for getting out of tough situations however in the opening engagement Rianna Rose, the unit’s executive officer and sister to the unit’s commander Jeremiah Rose, is critically injured.
With Rianna unable to move and Jeremiah unwilling to abandon his sister it looks to be the end of the Black Thorns until one of the newest recruits, Sgt Dan Jackson, proposes Hegira to the Clan Commander. Hegira the honourable retreat of an enemy force without further bloodshed or loss of honour is accepted by the Ghost Bears. Following a short debate the Ghost Bears agree and the surviving Black Thorns, including Rianna, are able to leave. Jeremiah enacts an exit clause in the Black Thorns contract and they begin heading for Northwind.
On Northwind Rianna and Jeremiah’s father Cornelius Rose suffers a stroke when hearing that his daughter will never be able to use her limbs again unless she accepts myomer implants, something she has refuse. Towards the end of July Cornelius recovers mostly from the effects of his stroke and with the Black Thorns arriving back on planet he begins lobbying the other Clan Elders and the Regiment Commanders to allow the Black Thorns to recruit off Northwind and become part of the Northwind Highlanders.
Van Dieman IV
Former Free Worlds League
12th July 3067
The Rousset-Marik Alliance continues to expand by landing forces on the world of Van Dieman IV an independent Duchy under the control of the Oriente Protectorate. A similar sight unfolds as Captain-General Jonas Rousset-Marik lands his Krushers’ regiment on planet attempting to negotiate first then launching a full assault on the defending Third Oriente Hussars Regiment. In a particularly blood-thirsty move the Krushers target the Oriente DropShips first destroying them before going after and destroying the Oriente Hussars unit almost to the man with the survivors, nearly all badly injured sent to prisoner camps deeper in the Rousset-Marik Alliance.
Antallos, Pirate Holding
Periphery Near Outworlds Alliance
18th July 3067
Clan Snow Raven decides to being to take its revenge on the Draconis Combine because of the Kazanka Incident but first they decide to eliminate a thorn in the side of the Outworlds Alliance and the Inner Sphere, Antallos, a known pirate haven. Landing nearly two Clusters on the world they are surprised to find, according to local opinion, Vance Razek’s Band of the Damned and Vinston’s Vigilantes have both been destroyed by a Clan force of unknown identity or origin.
Although the Snow Ravens do encounter a full Division of Word of Blake forces, three small pirate bands, including a group of the Clan’s Dark Caste Faction and a regimental strength unit named Spade’s Brigade the elite Snow Raven troops with full WarShip and Aerospace support eliminate all opposing forces taking Antallos as a Snow Raven holding. Armed with the knowledge of a Clan force in the nearby periphery the Snow Ravens begin to watch their backs as well as continuing to prepare to strike the Draconis Combine.
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Royal Palace, Throne Room
Tharkad City, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
4th August 3067
For the first time in nearly fifteen years Peter Steiner-Davion walked into the throne room of the Lyran capital, home to the Steiner family, for this occasion Peter wore the full regalia of Lyran General of Armies and beside him walked Isis Steiner in a shimmering blue dress with a lighter coloured blue coat covering her shoulders. Isis wore her blonde hair straight and down her back hair together with a blue hair clasp near the nape of her neck, she looked stunning.
Ahead of them stood Katherine Steiner-Davion, dressed very similarly to Isis in a light blue dress with a dark blue leather jacket rimmed in thick fur, she had obviously picked it to match Isis’ outfit something her spies would have noticed when they landed. Beside Katherine stood the true General of Armies Nondi Steiner, Peter’s aunt, the old General had a smile on her face as she saw Peter approach it seemed a genuine enough smile. Katherine however did not look amused.
“Welcome to Tharkad Duke Peter, or is that Marshal Peter or perhaps even Prince’s Champion Peter?†Katherine asked as Peter stood several steps away when Peter remained quiet she turned on Isis as well “as for you, I’ll say you have quite a nerve, Sun-Tzu obviously wasn’t enough. I will not let you tear this realm apart as your own has…â€
“I have no realm, Archon†Isis said ignoring Katherine’s remarks about her past.
“Katherine, we are only here to tell you that we are around and the Lyran people will have an alternative to you. I do not want a civil war, I hope you don’t either?â€
“Of course I don’t!†Katherine said walking back to the throne “and I suppose we owe you for brining Skye back under control but unfortunately we don’t have any room for you here on Tharkad.†She said glaring at them both, the Tharkad Palace was a massive structure with hundreds of rooms, if Katherine wanted them there they could fit.
“Fine with us.†Peter said “Duke Bradford has agreed to put us up on Coventry, not to close I hope.†Peter said turning to leave “then again Duke Kell’s offer was tempting as well and having the Wolves behind me could be helpful.â€
“Peter, choose as you will just get off Tharkad with your little slut and tell Victor I will not be moved by his little puppet!†Katherine said taking Peter’s goading which Peter found ironic as he was bigger than Victor. Peter bowed slightly then put an arm around his wife and the two silently left the room. “Find out where they go.†Katherine said staring after them Nondi nodded and left the room by another exit. Hours later Peter and Isis were back in their DropShip and heading for the Jump-Point, as if to thumb their noses at the Archon the WarShip LAS Fylgia, the Alliance’s second Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser offered to take the Duke to Coventry an offer which Peter graciously accepted. The journey was part of the ship's routine rotation but the symbolism was enough to enrage Katrina Steiner-Davion.
Clan Occupation Zones
Wolf/Jade Falcon Claimed worlds
14th August 3067
In a lightning assault the Crusader-faction of Clan Wolf launches Trials of Possession for the worlds of La Grave and Orkney in the Jade Falcon OZ seizing both in rapid succession. The Wolves then cross into the Lyran Alliance claiming the worlds Tomans, Rasalgethi, Ft. Loudon, Borghese and Crimond all above the Tukayyid Truce Line, but only just. The Lyran defenders are driven back by the Wolf assault although resistance remains on the worlds the Wolves press on preparing a second wave. Meanwhile the Jade Falcons also launch an assault into the Lyran Alliance taking the worlds Ballynure, Graceland and Koniz, on Koniz the Jade Falcons destroy the Mercenary unit Barber‘s Marauder IIs taking no survivors as bondsmen annihilating the unit to the man.
Then as the Wolves launch their second wave the Jade Falcons also make one more move striking at the world of Pandora, a Lyran Theatre Capital World. On the Jade Falcon side stands the Gyrfalcon Galaxy under the command of saKhan Samantha Clees while on the other side stand Khan Vlad Ward’s own Wolf Spirits Galaxy while in the middle stand the Sixth Lyran Guards RCT with the Pandora College Training Battalion and the Third Donegal Guards RCT. The two Clans turn on the two Lyran units with the Wolves destroying the Sixth Lyran and Pandora Battalion while the Jade Falcons destroy the Third Donegal. The two Clans then turn on each other claiming the Wolves Third Wolf Guard Cluster and the Fourth Striker Cluster on the Wolf’s side while the claiming the Forth Falcon Striker Cluster and the Turkina Eyrie Cluster on the Jade Falcon side. The Wolves loosing the fight begin to withdraw however a Falcon WarShip moves into orbit above the world intent on destroying the Wolf Khan.
Vlad Ward knowing he cannot become ilKhan if he is killed calls for a Trial against saKhan Samantha Clees. If he wins his forces are allowed safcon and to retreat from battle, if Samantha wins then the Wolves Alpha Galaxy become possessions of Clan Jade Falcon, as does the Khan of Clan Wolf. The Jade Falcon saKhan agrees immediately and the two face off. Khan Vlad Ward in his Timber Wolf while Samantha Clees in her Summoner. In a short brutal battle Khan Ward shows he is a far better pilot in a far stronger Mech easily overpowers and disables the Jade Falcon saKhan’s Mech then to rub salt in the wounds he stands on Samantha Clees’ Mech’s cockpit crushing the Jade Falcon saKhan where she had fallen.
The Jade Falcons honour bound to allow Vlad’s remaining troops to leave do so securing Pandora with their remaining forces and moping up any Lyran survivors. With their own assault stalled as they wait for their Khan to arrive in the Occupation Zone several Star Colonels fight over the right to command Gyrfalcon Cluster however two days later Star Colonel Diana Pryde arrives with her Jade Falcon Guards, of Jade Falcon Galaxy (the Khan‘s Galaxy), defeating all comers for command of the Galaxy under orders from Khan Marthe Pryde she assumes the position of saKhan as well.
New Samarkand Shipyards, New Samarkand
Galedon Military District, New Samarkand Prefecture
Draconis Combine
22nd August 3067
Deep in the heart of the Draconis Combine at the Star League-era Shipyard facility at New Samarkand the Draconis Combine begin to build, the Yamato-class Battleship. The first vessel of three planned vessels will be named Muashi and is projected to be launched in 3073. The Draconis Combine has taken the decision to build these vessels in an attempt to counter the Ghost Bear Leviathan 2-class Battleship and the Snow Raven’s massive fleet led by the Snow Raven, a Nightlord 2-class Battleship not to mention the Federated Suns flagship design the First Prince-class Battleship, the FSS Hanse Davion. The Yamato-class weighs in at just over one-and-a half million tons and is one thousand-two hundred metres and will be more than capable of destroying any other WarShip in the deep.
Pleiades Cluster
Capellan March, Federated Suns
28th August 3067
Ordered to the Pleiades Cluster by Field Marshal George Hasek the Medusans Mercenary DropShip squadron is tasked with interdicting Taurian supply DropShips in the area and capture as much supplies bound to Pleiades as possible. The Hydra Assault Squadron of six DropShips under the command of Rear Admiral Henry H. Harwood is able to capture six Taurian DropShips just inside the Pleiades Cluster. On most of the DropShips they find front-line Capellan made equipment and Capellan born advisors however on the last DropShip, a Buccaneer-class Cargo Hauler they find six Santa Ana-class Nuclear tipped Killer Whale Missiles. Although designed as anti-WarShip missiles to be carried by WarShips or Assault DropShips these weapons can also be fired from ground based sites or just set off causing massive damage. Reporting this find first to George Hasek the Medusans decide they cannot keep this to themselves and also inform the Star League Defence Force of the find. Immediately the Killer Bees Battalion, SAS Division of the Star League are deployed to the Pleiades Cluster to take care of the weapons and find out if there are any more in the area. The Taurian Concordat officials in the area and on Taurus claim these weapons were placed there by House Davion spies and they know nothing of there presence.
Across the Federated Suns the SLS Shining Claw, the Congress-class Frigate captured at the Battle of Trafalgar by the Eridani Light Horse moves into the Galax shipyards to begin an upgrade of its systems. When the Shining Claw leaves the yards a year later it will do so as a Block II-class of vessel.
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Second Babylon Diet
Babylon, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
15th September 3067
The beginning of the Second Babylon Diet goes off without a hitch with the Cloud Cobras and the Diamond Sharks significantly upgrading the defences of the Diet this time, with each Clan deploying two WarShips and a galaxy each to the defence of the Diet, in case there is a repetition of the troubles that plagued the first Diet. Because there are so many Inner Sphere delegates present the SLDF are also allowed to send a Battalion of troops from Huntress to support and protect the defensive forces.
Notably the Cloud Cobras and the Nova Cats are very frosty towards each other due to the Rossei Cloister’s actions in almost completely joining the Nova Cats. Although the Cloud Cobras accept the Nova Cats had little directly to do with the Rossei Cloister’s decision to join their Clan the Cloud Cobras are angry the Nova Cats accepted them so easily as if it wasn’t a big deal.
Clan Wolf/Jade Falcon/Lyran Alliance Border
18th September 3067
On the Clan borders Clan Wolf and Clan Jade Falcon continue their advance on Coventry, Donegal and Tharkad and the heart of the Lyran Alliance. Already the worlds of Grundwald, Summit and Kandersteg had fallen to the Wolves while the Jade Falcons had taken Dustball, A Place and Bountiful Harvest.
In the Kandersteg system the Lyran Alliance WarShips LAS Yggdrasil, a Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser and the LAS Robert Marsden, a Fox-class Corvette had engaged two Clan Wolf WarShips destroying the WarShip Blood Drinker, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser. While in the Bountiful Harvest system the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) WarShip Ulric Kerensky, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser had been destroyed when it engaged the Jade Falcons Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser Hawker, the two ships died in a massive fireball as they collided in space, in a titanic ramming maneover by the Hawker. Even these losses had not stopped the Clans however and people were streaming off Lyran worlds attempting to escape the Clan advance.
Further up the borderline the Sixth Alliance Guards supported by a Wolf (in-Exile) Cluster attack and liberate the world of Clermont from the Jade Falcons a success which is quickly followed by Kikuyu another world that had been lost in previous raids by the Jade Falcons. Driven on by these raids on the eighteenth the SLDF’s 151st Light Horse and two ComGuard Divisions, not yet included in Operation Case White, all supported by the SLS Sparta newly out of the shipyards at Alarion attempt a raid into the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone in an attempt to force the Jade Falcons to defend their captured territory. Attacking the Butler system deep in the Jade Falcon OZ unfortunately as the enter the system they are confronted by the Falcon’s Nest, a Texas-class Battleship.
The Falcon’s Nest with a full broadside worth of Naval-class lasers destroys the Seventy-Seventh Division of the ComGuard’s Second Army before the Sparta even has time to react. Although no match for the Falcon’s Nest the Sparta engages the massive Battleship for a total on one minute and fifty-eight seconds before being destroyed. Although this is a tiny amount of time it does allow the ground forces enough of a head-start to head for the planet. Five days later the two surviving unit’s the 151st and the 211th Division hit the Jade Falcon ground forces with everything they have and destroy the Seventh Provisional Garrison Cluster of the Jade Falcon’s Rho Galaxy and the Fifty-first Garrison Cluster of Iota Galaxy securing most of the planet believing the Jade Falcons will not resort to orbital bombardment.
They are wrong. The Falcon’s Nest moves into orbit two days later and lets loose with three barrages destroying all three major military bases and the only HPG on the planet. Then it drops two Clusters of troops to eliminate or capture the remaining SLDF and ComGuard personnel. It is believed roughly a Battalions worth of troops is captured by the Jade Falcons marking a very black day for the SLDF. The Clan WarShip’s willingness to use orbital bombardment is even more scary for the Inner Sphere and shows the Clan’s changing attitude to their relations and combat against the Inner Sphere.
Bradford Family Residence
Port St. William, Coventry
Coventry Province, Lyran Alliance
21st September 3067
Choosing to remain close to Tharkad and away from the Clan borders Peter Steiner-Davion and Isis Steiner had taken refuge on the important industrial world of Coventry. Not only was Coventry close to Tharkad but the world's leader, Duke Thomas Fredrick Bradford, was a close ally to Morgan Kell and Victor Steiner-Davion and a major opponent of Katherine in the Lyran Alliance. Duke Bradford turned all intelligence assets over to Peter and treated him like an Archon during his stay. The population of Coventry followed their Duke’s example and made Peter very welcome, to the surprise of everyone they even welcomed Isis with open arms accepting her despite her Marik heritage. Peter and Isis stayed at the Bradford Residence and had been given almost the entire guest wing for their stay.
“Are you coming to bed?†Isis asked stretched out over the bed, Peter was sitting at a desk near the patio windows.
“In a minute, just catching up.†Peter said reading the report from the front-line, both Wolf and Jade Falcon Clans were causing the Alliance more and more troubles by the hour.
“Peter!†Isis said sitting up the covers falling off her body, she was naked under the covers, she always slept naked she said it reminded her of everything she had lost “come to bed.†She whispered, Peter looked over his shoulder and couldn’t help but smile at the sight, she was as beautiful as the first time they were together. Putting down the reports he launched himself at the bed landing beside her immediately she was wrapped around his body. “I think we need to lose this…†She said indicating to his clothes however just as Peter began to lose his clothes the whole building was rocked by an explosion that knocked over the bed “what the hell was that?†Isis screamed as they were knocked to the floor and covered by the bedding as the entire bed was thrown up onto its side.
“Get dressed†Peter said reaching up to the bedside cabinet removing a Sternsnacht Pistol Isis looked at the weapon wide-eyed “stay here, I’ll be right back†he said raising to his feet.
“I love you!†Isis called her head in a light green sweater as Peter made it to the door.
“I know, I love you too†Peter said opening the door only to be tackled by Duke Thomas Bradford as he came barrelling through the door slamming Peter into the floor with a heavy thud. Bradford rolled off and kicked the door closed. “What is going on?†Peter asked exasperated he noticed Bradford was also armed.
“Building security has been breached and there is an assassin in looking for you.†Bradford said Peter looked to Isis who was struggling into clothes. “The communications are down so we blew the reactors hoping to gain the militia’s attention.
“Who is it?â€
“Unknown, the guards reported they were engaging a pair of Infiltrator Battle Armour so probably someone from the Former FedCom States.â€
“Victor and Morgan supports us so I guess Katherine?†Isis said dropping down beside them she was unarmed but at least she was now dressed Peter looked at her and wished they had been left for half an hour more.
“Katherine.†Bradford and Peter both said together in agreement.
“We need to get you out of here.†Bradford said “out the windows, both of you.†Thomas said Peter and Isis headed for the patio while Bradford remained watching the doors. Just as Peter was helping lower Isis to the ground the room door exploded inwards showering Thomas Bradford with splinters of wood from the door. Peter began heading back towards the door but saw Bradford shaking his head as he began firing pistol blasts into the door Peter followed Isis down the balcony to the ground, just before he dropped down he saw Bradford being cut down by sub-machine gun fire as an Infiltrator Battle Armour suit walked into the room.
“We need to go.†Peter said to Isis who nodded silently, she had heard the weapons fire and knew what had happened. Running across the courtyard to the vehicle bay jumping into a small hovercraft and escape they were intercepted by a squad of four Standard Inner Sphere Battle Armour painted up in Coventry Militia colours.
“Sire, what is the problem?†One of the troopers asked because of the suit’s distortion of the voice Peter couldn’t tell if the trooper was male or female.
“Infiltrator Battle Armour arrived a little while ago. The Duke was cut down by them and they are sweeping each room with weapons fire.†He said as machine gun fire filled the air again.
“Right. Gonzalez! Secure the Duke and his wife.†The trooper said over loud speakers “the rest of you with me, we’re going in.†He said running forward two suits immediately ran behind the lead trooper. “You two, in the front door! I’m going in upstairs.†the trooper ordered launching their suit skyward on jump jets as the other two troopers charged down the front door of the burning building. From his position near the vehicle bay Peter could see the explosion of the generator had set the building ablaze, the wooden building was taking to flame quickly. Upstairs the lead trooper encountered an Infiltrator Battle Armoured trooper standing over Duke Thomas Fredrick Bradford “You bastard!†the trooper shouted charging forward at the trooper, the Infiltrator suit had been modified with a Battle Claw and anti-personnel weapons. The Standard suit however had a support machine gun alongside the anti-personnel assault rifle, the two weapons opened fire together tearing into the Infiltrator suit already damaged by weapons fire. The Infiltrator turned to one side to minimal the penetration of the machine gun and charged launching the Infiltrator’s left shoulder into the trooper’s chest winding the trooper then the Infiltrator trooper swung his claw into the Standard Battle Armour’s chest plates penetrating the armour and causing heavy damage to the troopers insides armour, bone and internal organs were smashed by the strike and the trooper crashed to the ground knocked off the Infiltrator’s claw. The trooper then began heading out of the room charging forward smashing through the patio windows and leaping to the ground the suit controlled the impact far better than the suit was normally capable of.
In front of the battered Infiltrator suit stood a single Standard Battle Armour suit, Peter and Isis were in the vehicle garage. The Infiltrator trooper charged forward using the suit’s superior ground speed to knock the other trooper off his feet knocking the trooper out with the impact. Walking forward he prepared to finish off the trooper raising the battle claw however Peter Steiner-Davion came running from the garage firing all twelve bullets from his Sternsnacht pistol driving the Infiltrator suit back although doing little damage. Peter rolled forward and grabbed the Standard Suit’s anti-personnel machine gun, the trooper must have been vaguely aware of Peter’s presence because the weapon dropped away into his hands and Peter took full advantage of the weapon’s power opening fire into the Infiltrator’s chest with a long burst of ninety-two rounds into the suit’s chest armour. The Infiltrator stood there for a second as if the armour had held under the weapons fire then it fell forwards just in front of Peter who fell to the floor landing on his behind looking at the dead assassin. Inside the building there was still weapons fire however all around more militia troops were arriving securing the area.
Hours later the area had been secured and the fire put out, the Bradford family home had been destroyed although Duke Thomas Bradford’s body had been recovered. The assassins had also been identified Kommandant Konstantin Wolff-Ploetig, with Peter felling Konstantin outside the building. Konstantin was a known operative of Katherine Steiner-Davion and Peter decided that enough was enough. Dressed in a Lyran General of Armies uniform without any combat ribbons he was entitled to hold Peter Steiner-Davion addressed the nation. “People of the Lyran Alliance I am Peter Steiner-Davion, third child of the departed Hanse Davion and Melissa Steiner. In 3056 I left the politics of the Inner Sphere for a life of peace. Persuaded to return I have served with my Brother in the Federated Suns for the last three years and would have been happy to remain in this position. However fate would conspire against me and the Skye nation began to cause trouble. Fortunately Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner is a honourable, clever leader†he said giving the Skye people some acknowledgement was key to winning Katherine’s throne. “with Duke Kelswa-Steiner I was able to end the Skye Crisis and decided to stay within the Lyran realm. For the first time in ten years I travelled to Tharkad the world of my mother and grand-mother†he said playing up his heritage of the Steiner blood within him “however Katherine would not allow me or my wife Isis to remain on the capital world and we were forced to leave finding aid from Duke Bradford of Coventry. My sister Katherine was obviously not happy with this arrangement and sent Kommandant Konstantin Wolff-Ploetig to kill me and the Duke of Coventry. People of the Lyran Alliance it is my grave duty to inform you that the Archon’s assassin killed Duke Thomas Fredrick Bradford before being felled by Coventry Militia troops. With this evidence against my sister and evidence my brother, First Prince of the Federated Suns Victor Steiner-Davion, holds that points to my sister’s involvement in the bombing that killed my mother I now call on Katherine to peacefully relinquish control of the Lyran Alliance. She has until the end of this year to abdicate the throne or I will lead a force to Tharkad and remove her from office, I do not want to begin a civil war by taking this action but I will not leave Katherine in office to terrorise the people of the Lyran Alliance any longer. Thank you.†He said as the monitor ended already Morgan Kell and several regiments loyal to Morgan or Victor had promised to join Peter if he called on them Katherine’s time was numbered as Archon now the only question that remained was whether she would do it peacefully or force a conflict? Unfortunately Peter felt that Katherine would not relinquish the throne without a fight.
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Throne Room, Royal Palace
Tharkad City, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
28th September 3067
A week after Peter’s challenge to Katherine and things were going from bad to worse. The Clans were still fighting all along the border and now forces across the Lyran Alliance were standing up to Katherine or standing for the Archon warning other units that if they fought for Peter they would be fighting them as well.
General of Armies Nondi Steiner, Katherine’s aunt and one of the eldest members inside the Lyran Alliance Armed Forces entered the room walking over to the throne standing about five feet away remaining silent, she knew Katherine preferred to speak first. “What is it Nondi? Not more Clan news.â€
“Only that they have halted their advance, it's a meat-grinder now we're making no real progress but neither are they.†Nondi said “other news is more... interesting..." she said pausing "this news is closer to home.â€
“Peter†Katherine said resigned, Konstantin Wolff-Ploetig had put her in a vulnerable position with troops across the Lyran Alliance and leaders across the Inner Sphere, led by her brother Victor, had condemned her.
“Partially…†Nondi said quietly cryptically.
“So what has my little brother done now? Has the pint-sized Prince sent him some troops or critical news that will make me look even more guilty?†Katherine asked cursing her elder Brother one more time, Victor had never been so deft in making her squirm and making trouble for her, that had always been her job. Perhaps age and marriage had seasoned him beyond what Katherine believed.
“Does he need to?†Nondi asked quietly Katherine looked at her with almost a look of betrayal had Nondi turned against her as well.
“What did you just say?†Katherine demanded.
“Here Archon, this should wet your interest.†Nondi said stepping forward ignoring the Archon's demand handing Katherine a small noteputer. On the machine was a single letter - Nondi’s resignation as General of Armies effective immediately.
“What is this?†Katherine asked her head was ready to explode.
“Isn’t it obvious? I’ve had enough Katherine all your scheming and planning have worn this old warrior down and I have had enough. I wanted to retire in ‘55 but you dragged me back well I’ve had enough.†Nondi said walking to the left several steps then back again. “This morning I sent the press that same letter with instructions to broadcast it this evening.â€
“Nondi, I need you, the Alliance needs you.†Katherine said stepping down from the throne she looked more than a little worried and vulnerable.
“No lass, you need far more than me, you need a miracle.†Nondi said “and I need my retirement and the Commonwealth back.†Katherine looked at her thinking that all she needed to do was take her brother’s realm all those years ago and then she would have kept Nondi, then again her aunt had always been an opponent of the Federated Commonwealth why the change?
“Not that Commonwealth the original one.â€
“The Alliance is the Commonwealth!†Katherine said raising her arms above her, the Alliance was smaller but also stronger than the Commonwealth had ever been.
“No, it’s not, the Commonwealth was led by proud, honourable leaders and you are neither, you’re just a spoilt brat of Hanse Davion.†Nondi said tearing into Katherine “and I’ve had enough of your back stabbing and political manoeuvring. Peter and Victor claim you killed your mother, something a Davion would recognize if it were true. If that is the case may god have mercy on your soul.†Nondi said turning her back on Katherine walking out even though the Archon was screaming for her to come back and insults at the old General’s back Nondi was soon gone and Katherine was alone. Stepping back up onto her throne she sat down and felt her shoulders sag, she was tired of this.
“You heard?†She asked looking over her shoulder Simon Gallagher stepped from the shadows.
“Yes, Archon, every word. Do you need something done?â€
“Yes, you are my new General of Armies. Find a public officer and put a decent spin on Nondi’s retirement then get me news on my brothers actions.†She said, she knew Victor would be having something to do with this.
“Yes, Archon, what of Nondi?â€
“Let the old woman retire, she is nothing to us now.†Katherine said staring out the main exit at the last place she had seen Nondi, damn the old woman. Even with Simon standing there she was alone, she looked at Simon “what are you waiting for get going!†She screamed if they survived this the first thing she would do is get rid of Simon Gallagher as her General of Armies he was a ‘yes-man’ good for right now but not a long term basis. ‘At least nothing can make this worse’ Katherine thought quietly.
Nadir Point
Tharkad System
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
2nd October 3067
Katherine was soon cursing the thoughts ‘this can’t get worse’ just four days later when the reason for Clan Wolf’s quietness became apparent when the WarShips Dire Wolf (Sovetskii Soyuz), Stealthy Kill (Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser) and Victoria Ward (Liberator-class Cruiser) all fully laden with DropShips jump into the Nadir point of the Tharkad system and Khan Vladimir Ward’s face was beamed across Tharkad. “I am Khan Vlad Ward of Clan Wolf. My Wolves are here to claim Katrina Steiner as our bondsmen. Give her to us or face the consequences.†He warned although some of Tharkad’s civilians were ready to turn Katherine over in an instant however the defenders of Tharkad were not ready to make such a move and the three WarShips assigned to defend Tharkad immediately moved to engage the Wolf WarShips. The two Fox-class Corvettes LAS Robert Kelswa and LAS Angela Franks led the Hyperion-class Battle-cruiser LAS Athens commanded by Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood, one of Katherine’s last and strongest supporters.
The two Fox-class Corvettes and their assault DropShips tried to attack the Wolf command ship Dire Wolf, which had served as Clan Wolf’s flagship since the Clan invasion of the Inner Sphere despite being the vessel that had caused the death of an ilKhan and the vessel constantly suffering from poor maintenance. However, in front of them stood the Stealth Kill with its massed naval autocannons and the Victoria Ward with its tightly packed anti-fighter weapons also the Dire Wolf was a sniper type of WarShip with almost exclusively sniper-class naval weapons almost all capable of reaching extreme ranges making it the perfect long range attacker.
Caught between the autocannons of the Stealthy Kill and the capital missiles and lasers of the Dire Wolf the DropShips carried by the two corvettes and the two corvettes themselves were quickly overpowered while every fighter carried by all three vessels were destroyed by the Wolf fighters and the Victoria Ward.
The Athens believed it had been forgotten when the Dire Wolf, Stealthy Kill and the majority of the DropShips began to burn for Tharkad and began to move to engage leaving the damaged Victoria Ward, a vessel better suited to anti-fighter operations than anti-WarShip operations, like it appeared the Wolves had. However the Wolves had been smart the Liberator-class carried a rarely used capacity to carry a full cluster of conventional infantry and fifty Battle Armoured Elemental Marine troopers.
The Victoria Ward kept pace with the Athens shielding the other Wolf vessels from the Hyperion’s Naval PPCs. Moving alongside the Liberator’s armour absorbed the weapons fire from the Hyperion’s broadside of six Heavy Naval PPCs then the battle onboard the Hyperion began as Elementals breached the vessels hull at several points and quickly began overpowering the marines assigned to defend the Hyperion. Then as the Athens crew had shown resistance was on their mind the Elementals quickly began moving through the vessel pacifying the crew including Fleet Admiral Lynn Hood. The Victoria Ward then docked with the vessel and the Clan Wolf Prize-crew boarded the vessel, the Victoria Ward had transported them like infantry but they would return to the Wolf OZ as a WarShip crew of the captured Athens. With the rest of the Lyran navy defending the borders against the Jade Falcons and the Free Worlds League the first battle of the Tharkad system was over.
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Tharkad
Tharkad System
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
10th October 3067
Following a fairly standard burn in procedure the WarShips Dire Wolf and Stealthy Kill moved into orbit of Tharkad seven days later followed by the Victoria Ward and the newly captured Athens a day later. With all four of their WarShips in orbit the Wolf DropShips descended on Tharkad concentrating on the area outside Tharkad City as their Drop Point sixteen Wolf DropShips landed and Wolf Spirits (Alpha), the Shadow Wolves (Beta) and the Wolf Hussars (Gamma) Galaxies, roughly twelve Clusters, of the most elite troops of Clan Wolf disembarked. Against them just inside the boundaries of Tharkad City were the First, Second and Third Royal Guards, the Donegal Jaegers, the Mobile Fire Mercenary unit (still rebuilding following their last thrashing on the Combine border) and Sixty-sixth Division of ComStar’s Tenth Army.
Amazingly the Khan of Clan Wolf offered General of Armies a batchall before the battle willing to limit the damage caused by the fighting. Simon Gallagher refused stating that every Lyran would get his chance to face and kill a Wolf Menace over an open channel revitalizing the Lyrans but also angering the Wolves.
At 12.03 Hours, (Tharkad Local Time - TLT) on the 10th the Battle of Tharkad began one kilometre outside Tharkad City on the frozen tundra. The Wolf Hussars leading the charge on the Wolf side while the Donegal Jaegers and under strength Third Royal Guards face them on the other side. The Wolf Hussars had been held back by Khan Ward in other operations because they had just arrived from the Homeworlds and the warriors were ready to show they should never have been held back. An hour later as the Wolf Spirits and Wolf Shadows arrive the remnants of Donegal Jaegers and the Third Royal Guards are in full retreat unable to hold against the Wolf fury. Simon Gallagher orders his remaining troops to retreat within the city and folds the Donegal Jaegers and Third Royal into other units. Khan Vladimir Ward orders the Wolf Hussars to defend the Wolf DropShips while the rest of the force ventures into Tharkad City.
At 15.15 (TLT) hours exactly the next stage of the Battle of Tharkad began with the Shadow Wolves led by saKhan Marialle Radick. The Shadow Wolves caring little for Tharkad City or its population too their shots as they saw them and cared little for the devastation their weapons caused on the city killing hundreds in the opening hour alone. During this battle a new Clan Wolf OmniMech the Lycurgus. Weighing in at eighty-five tons this Assault OmniMech devastates every single Lyran Mech that faces it mainly because the Lyran defenders know nothing of what they are facing. As the Shadow Wolves forge ahead the Mobile Fire Regiment attempts to cut them off from reinforcements and allow the Lyran units deeper in the city to hammer the Crusader Wolves however the Mobile Fire regiment is nearly immediately engaged by the forces of the Wolf Spirits led by Khan Vladimir Ward. The three Clusters of the Wolf Spirits quickly and efficiently wipe out the mercenary regiment leaving nothing to be rebuilt this time.
At 16.20 (TLT) hours a second counter-attack is launched against the Wolves this time by ComStar’s Sixty-sixth Division. The 66th does not however try to defend Tharkad City or their HPG Station instead they travel outside the city outskirts launching an assault on the Wolf DropShips destroying three DropShips, an Overlord-C, a Sassanid and a Miraborg-class vessels, containing most of the Wolves aerospace assets, before the Wolf Hussars annihilate the ComStar force to the man. The Wolves take no ComStar prisoners as bondsmen with Elementals going cockpit to cockpit killing any survivors the Wolves remember what a ComGuard Spy had in the destruction of Clan Smoke Jaguar and they are aware of the ComGuard‘s actions on Terra continuing even as this battle continues.
At 17.45 (TLT) hours the Spirit Wolves and the lead elements of the Shadow Wolves reach the Lyran Royal Court decimating the Second Royal Guards which have been reinforced by several units of the First Royal Guards. Six hours later at 23.52 (TLT) hours (local time) the Second Royal Guards RCT and its support along with almost all the Royal Court buildings lie in ruin along with thousands of Tharkad City’s population. Making camp in the Royal Court over the night the Wolves fight off the occasional raid but overall very little Lyran opposition to their occupation of the Royal Court. The next morning under a flag of truce Khan Vlad Ward takes his Golden Keshik to the Triad which hosts the Royal Palace amongst other buildings.
Sitting on her throne flanked by two Hauptmann OmniMechs, with pilots who would rather be outside fighting than here protecting the Archon, Katherine Steiner-Davion sat watching as Khan Vladimir Ward walked proudly into the Royal Court of Tharkad. As promised he had no weapons or guards as he walked to within a couple of feet of her and threw her a mock bow “Archon, it is good to see you again, I am so pleased to find you in good health.†He said smiling ear-to-ear despite the scar that went straight through his left eye she had always found Vladimir Ward a very attractive man.
“What are you doing here?†Katherine said stepping down closer to Vlad her voice hushed so the MechWarriors could not hear if they were eves-dropping.
“Collecting a debt owed.†Vlad said not lowering his voice
“You said I had ten years, that is one more year away.†Katherine said rapidly the bargain she had made around the time of the Battle of Coventry had been a good one. The Wolves freed her from her bonds and in return she gave them the Inner Sphere. If only she had captured the Federated Commonwealth when she had planned than she could give Vlad half the Inner Sphere, or at least make look like she was.
“I have decided to collect early.†Vlad said smiling Katherine was starting to not like his smile. Vlad raised one hand to stroke her cheek. To Katherine’s skin Vlad’s hand was warm despite just coming in from the cold and Katherine played along with Vlad’s little game pretending to enjoy his touch. She remembered when she had first met him Vlad’s crude marks about her and her planned alliance with the Smoke Jaguars had cut deeper than any blade could. “Anyway, I do not believe you would be in power much longer without my little raid. And I wouldn‘t want you disappearing on me.†Vlad said making it clear he was here only for her, Katherine wasn’t sure if she should be honoured or scared.
“That could change.†Katherine promised she had ideas on how to remain in power but Vlad’s attack had destroyed any hope of that soon her entire Royal Guard would be destroyed and with the Royal Court gone her core support was gone.
“I doubt it. Also I have need of your expertise. Here is the new bargain. You will surrender to me now, we will leave and then you will help me conqueror Terra. If you agree you will be treated better than if you force me to come get you.†Vlad said looking directly at her “and I will come for you. Pristine or bashed and broken it means little difference to me.†He said looking at her now Katherine was feeling scared. “With the Wolves I can make you great.â€
“A freebirth in Clan Wolf. I can never see that happening again, you wouldn’t want to risk another split.†Katherine said smiling Vlad slapped her throwing Katherine to the ground both Hauptmann’s turned their weapons on Vlad but held fire at this range they would incinerate Katherine as well. “I could order your death here and now.†Katherine whispered Vlad looked at the Hauptmanns then at Katherine.
“If they kill me you die too.â€
“Perhaps not.†Katherine said regaining her feet but keeping her distance from Vlad, she wouldn’t be slapped again.
“And If I was to be killed here on this ground under a flag of truce the consequences for Tharkad could be grave.†Vlad said raising his voice so the MechWarriors could hear. “For a start this building would not survive and then Marialle would come looking for you. Not to mention what would happen when our WarShips acted, and they would.†He said lunging at Katherine grabbing the Lyran leader. “Surrender to me now or I will turn you over to her whatever happens and you do not want see what she does to Freebirths.†He whispered in her ear releasing her. Katherine stood there silent for a moment then turned to the two Hauptmanns.
“Stand-down. I am surrendering.†She said “one of you contact Simon Gallagher and order him to stand-down all Lyran forces.†She said after several moments turning back towards Vlad who slipped a thin black-and-white bondcord around her wrists.
“Welcome to Clan Wolf.†Vlad whispered kissing her full on the lips. It was the first time she had been this close to a man in years, not since Galen Cox in 3055 had she been in a true relationship. After a few seconds Katherine relaxed into the kiss which lasted several minutes much to the dismay of the two Hauptmann pilots looking on.
“Allow me to say good-bye to my people.†She said, it was not a request and Vlad would make sure that she learned the price of saying such things but not now instead he just nodded. Katherine stepped back up to the throne and pressed a button she had never pressed before. All across Tharkad receivers and transmitters activated waiting for her voice. “People of Tharkad this is Katrina Steiner-Davion.†She said shortening her name she always preferred her grand-mother’s name to her own and wanted to make sure she was remembered as such “Khan Vlad Ward of Clan Wolf has agreed to leave this world and all other recently captured Lyran worlds†she looked at Vlad who nodded his agreement “if I surrender to him. I will not allow more of our world, our capital or our people to be destroyed to preserve my freedom so I have agreed to go with him. You will always be near my heart and I thank you.†She said switching it off.
“Touching†Vlad said as Katrina picked up a fur coat then began to walk out Vlad glanced at the two silent Hauptmanns nodded once to them his face covered in a massive smirk then he followed Katherine as they left the Royal Palace and the Triad area.
An hour and a half later the Wolves were almost ready to leave the world when three DropShips appeared in the air above them and over two Regiments of Mechs landed around them from their insignia Katherine could tell they were the Coventry Jaegers and Coventry Militia. The air was filled with yet more DropShips as dozens of Clan Mechs bearing insignia very similar to Clan Wolf’s also appeared, it was the Exiles, Katrina looked at them and smiled, ‘better late than never.’ She thought silently. Vlad was preparing his troops for more combat however Katrina grabbed the communication set from Vlad making him angry. “Katrina Steiner-Davion to Archon Peter Steiner-Davion receive.†She said on a broadband frequency so everyone could hear. There was several seconds of silence and Vlad’s stare seemed to be getting worse.
“This is Peter Steiner-Davion, Katherine is that you?â€
“Affirmative, my little brother.†She said smiling, for once it wasn’t a cruel smile she was happy Peter had returned home now, he could look after the Alliance. “I need you to make me a promise.â€
“What?†Peter said, she couldn’t work out if he was annoyed or confused.
“Look after the Alliance, apologise to your wife for me and order your troops to let us leave unmolested.â€
“Katherine, we can save you.†Peter promised looking at the forces Katrina did not doubt that it would be quite a fight but they would not save her Vlad would kill her before letting her go and Tharkad would be devastated in the fighting. Although the she wanted many things destruction to her home was not one of those things.
“Negative, Peter.†Katrina said finally “I have surrendered myself to the Wolves and I think it is better for the Alliance now and in the long term if I just fade away.†She had no intension in fading away but for now she would have to bide her time.
“Katherine…†Peter’s voice was cut up with emotion.
“Archon Peter, permission to disembark.â€
“Permission granted, I’m sorry, Katrina.†Peter said finally using her chosen name
“Thank you, and don’t be too cut-up, I sealed this fate years ago. I knew what I was doing the cards just didn’t pan out this time.†She said shutting up the communicator before Peter could get anymore mushy. “Let’s get the hell off this frozen rock.†She said looking at Vlad trying to force a strong face despite the turmoil she felt at being driven from her home and nation.
Waiting to be loaded up onto her DropShip saKhan Marialle Radick could see the insignia of the Wolf Clan’s saKhan on another Mech, a fifty ton Nova. Moving her Warhawk off the firing line she opened her comm. Frequency “attention Dezgra Exile Force.†She said “this is out with the truce declared. I declare a Trial of Grievance against saKhan Marko Hall, there can be only one saKhan of the Wolves and I am that person.†She said not waiting for Marko’s reply or any other interference she triggered all four of her Mech’s Extended-Range PPCs overheating her Mech badly but also causing extreme damage on the far lighter Nova. Not waiting for her Mech to cool Marialle fired a second grouping of four PPC blasts, guided by her Mech’s targeting computer, into the Nova. One of the blasts was a little higher than the others and struck the stunned Nova’s cockpit window incinerating Marko Hall instantly. “This trial is at an end anyone else want a fight?†There were no takers as her Mech rapidly cooled in the Tharkad tundra winds. “I am shocked.†Marialle said only half seriously turning her Mech and returning to the DropShips she noticed the Khan’s private channel was active. “What?â€
“Why did you do that?â€
“You got what you wanted, I wanted something.†Marialle said looking in her rear screens “and I got it.†She said smiling as her Mech entered the DropShip. An hour later the DropShips were loading up to the WarShips watched by Lyran and Clan Wolf (in-Exile) WarShips.
Hours and days later Peter Steiner-Davion was confirmed as the new Lyran Archon by what little remained of the Royal Court and the rebuilding process began, with a half of Tharkad City devastated and several units lying dead on the tundra of the planet it would be a long process for the Lyran people to mend these wounds. To make matters worse Nondi Steiner is found dead in her ancestral home apparently of natural causes although the records are sealed as soon as the coroner is finished with them. Also Simon Gallagher is no where to be seen.
Without a General of Armies or a prominent General he trusts Archon Peter Steiner Davion recalled General Keane Sortek from Hesperus II to Tharkad and two weeks later Keane Sortek became General of Armies of the rebuilding Lyran Alliance Armed Forces much to the surprise of the Lyran people. For his first orders of business the new General of Armies orders the First, Second and Third Royal Guards rebuilt and begins to put in motion plans to upgrade all regular regiments to the RCT model begun under the Federated Commonwealth. Sortek finds opposition to his plans from the Lyran commanders because of the links to the past and the fact he if from the Federated Suns.
Free Capella Camp, Spica
Capellan March, Federated Suns
16th October 3067
Field Marshal Baron George Hasek arrives on Spica with the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT the border worlds shared with the St Ives Compact to meet with the leaders of the Free Capella Organisation. After a very brief discussion George Hasek informs Mandrinn Treyhang Liao and Senior Colonel Warner Doles that he wants the Blackwind Lancers and the Jie Fang Legion off Federated Suns soil by the 25th October. This is in direct opposition to George’s previous feelings for the Free Capella Organisation. Why this switch occurs is unknown.
Harlech City
Outreach, Chaos March
18th October 3067
In the early hours of the 18th two stolen Wolf’s Dragoon Vandal OmniFighters flying low over Outreach’s capital launch a strike against the Wolf’s Dragoons Home Guard buildings dropping a pair of fuel-air bombs on the barracks killing hundreds of Dragoons and all but wiping out the Home Guard. This act begins a massive riot that involves dozens of factions across the planet so fighting for the Dragoons some against. At the centre of the enemy force is the Waco’s Rangers led by a century old Wayne Waco who finally takes his hatred of the Dragoons to the final level by attacking the Dragoons in their own home killing hundreds in Harlech fighting.
The Dragoons are not the only targets any mercenary force allied with the Dragoons are also targeted and the following units are wiped out in the opening hours of the fighting: Ace Darwin’s Whip-its, a company strength unit gathers another company around them and fights with the Dragoons only to be wiped out Ace himself dying when his infamous Pink Panther is destroyed by a Waco’s Rangers Warhammer. Battle Magic Mercenary Command, a long term ally of the Dragoons are wiped out with the Home Guard of the Dragoons robbing many Dragoon friendly units of much needed technical support.
For almost eighteen hours the rebel mercenaries attack the Dragoons with the Dragoons trying to contain fighting this continues until the Dragoon’s Supreme Commander Jamie Wolf is killed while destroying the remains of Waco’s Rangers including Wayne Waco. Upon hearing of Jamie’s death the newly recovered Maeve Wolf, injured during a bomb attack months before, contacted all Dragoons on planet initiating ‘Condition Feral.’
Condition Feral is an order that has originated since the founding of the Dragoons and an order no-one thought would ever be given. Akin to a Clan Trial of Annihilation the Dragoons destroy any Mercenary force not allied with them. Under Condition Feral conditions even allies are destroyed if they do not stand down when facing the Dragoons. During this battle the Broadsword Legion, a unit made up of former ComGuard troops, turn on the Dragoon’s Wolf Spider Battalion annihilating them before being destroyed themselves. Also destroyed during the period of Condition Feral are the Fifty-first Dark Panzer Jaegers, a Battalion sized unit, Smithson’s Chinese Bandits, another Battalion sized unit, the Tiger Sharks, a mercenary regiment, and the Stealthy Tigers, a Mercenary Battalion.
During this fighting the Wolf’s Dragoons Gamma Regiment is folded into other units of the Dragoons. General Maeve Wolf orders all foreign mercenaries off Outreach any vehicle, Mech or trooper on Outreach after this order are taken under Dragoon control. Following all this fighting Harlech City is all destroyed with millions of civilians made homeless. Instead of looking for someone to blame Maeve orders the Dragoons to begin rebuilding their destroyed world.
With the MRBC Hiring Halls and Towers in the centre of Harlech one of the first targets of the Waco Ranger and their allies and the Wolf Dragoons kicking all foreign nationals off Outreach all MRBC surviving personnel move off planet moving all official operations to the Galatean City Offices. Mysteriously the Lone Wolves an Independent Mercenary Regiment that had been looking to be hired by the MRBC before the troubles on Outreach and disappeared before the trouble erupted reappear at the MRBC’s doors this time on Galatea offering their services as a permanent security force. With the MRBC Hiring Council Temporarily disbanded, due to several deaths on Outreach the MRBC make no immediate decision so the Galatean Lyran Duke hires the Lone Wolves on a temporary basis until the MRBC can sort itself out and make a decision.
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Martial Olympiad
Outside Focht War College
Tukayyid, Free Rasalhague Republic
28th October 3067
The Martial Olympiad ends on Tukayyid with the surprise victor being Imperator David Gladding of the Marian Hegemony. Despite the massive technical disadvantage the Marian’s hold Gladding and his troops avoid any of the political fighting that consumes almost every other nation’s representative forces to win. Even the Clans are involved in an almost one-up man ship type of contest with forces targeting their political enemies instead of just trying their best to win. Several leaders around the Inner Sphere and the Clans publicly lambasted their participants for allowing a former pirate realm to claim victory. During the several month long competition there are several brawls between rival participants take place in Memoria, the planet’s capital, the worse being between Lyran Alliance, Jade Falcon and Wolf troops which breaks out of the bar that it started in and continued in the street. The SLDF security forces arrest nearly one hundred people before the fighting is stopped. Most of the detained are released to their representative commanders during the following days. The Clans promise to return next year’s competition and show the Clans how to fight and win.
Terra, Mars and Titan
Sol System, Chaos March
4th November 3067
Following the loss of nearly four full Divisions of troops on Mars and Terra ComStar pull in the rest of their troops from the Chaos March and wider Periphery. The Twenty-first Centuri Lancers Mercenary Regiment which had been defending the Focht War College under ComStar contract are also called into the Invasion of Terra with Focht War College is left under SLDF protection. Considering the amount of money and resources that ComStar had spent previously defending Tukayyid and in building the War College this shows the extent and devotion they are willing to spend to destroy the Word of Blake once and for all and shows that this campaign will only end with one faction remaining.
New Hessen
Capellan March, Federated Suns
6th November 3067
Ejected from Spica by George Hasek the two Regiments of Free Capella raid several Federated Suns Capellan March worlds accumulating with New Hessen. When they drop on the sparsely defended world they believe it will be an easy raid however Hampton’s Hessens Mercenaries a three Mech regiment strong Brigade with support assets are on planet rebuilding for years on their homeworld following their demolition in the Succession Wars. Hampton’s Hessens immediately go to work on the Free Capella warriors driving them from their Homeworld in less than six hours with the destruction of the Jie Fang Legion the Free Capella warriors retreat from the world empty handed. The Free Capella warriors disappear from sight and the Federated Suns following this disastrous engagement. Hearing of this fight Field Marshal Baron George Hasek travels to New Hessen and hires them on a five year rolling contract to defend the Capellan March giving the mercenaries a considerable bonus for their work against Free Capella and allowing the unit to keep one Regiment on their Homeworld at all times as part of the Contract.
Fourth Whitting Conference, Focht War College
Orestes, Free Rasalhague Republic
8th November 3067
The Fourth Whitting Conference on Orestes was under heavy guard with the Royal Black Watch and the Knights of the Inner Sphere presenting a heavy presence around the Focht War College. Although the Focht War College was a ComStar installation it had been chosen because it was the most modern and secure on Orestes and the Free Rasalhague Republic had not wished to spend funds that would normally go to their people on a conference centre that would be used at the most once. Already the Word of Blake and the Capellan Confederation had expressed their displeasure that they were being forced to enter a ComStar facility despite the fact the War College was nearly abandoned by ComGuard and ComStar personnel and had been for several weeks.
In orbit over the facility the WarShips SLS Unity City, SLS Troy and SLS Covenant were ensuring that the no-fly zone around the facility was maintained. Fighters of the Royal Black Watch Fighter Wing and of the Silver Cross Wing were maintaining a constant visual. Of course they had little to worry about the Orestes system had only two Pirate points both several days from the planet and at the Nadir and Zenith Points there were eight WarShips representing six of the states, ComStar and the Word of Blake.
Sitting in the biggest amphitheatre of the Focht War College the Succession Lords were seated around a large round table each leader was joined by two advisors. Unlike other conferences there was no spokesperson seated at the table, instead the First Lord would have to maintain order. If trouble broke out during the voting for a new First Lord, Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion sitting at a table beside Generals Archer Christifori and Neil Campbell would step in. If there was a tie the SLDF would break the deadlock as ComStar had transformed into a voting state since the last conference.
Current exiting First Lord Christian Mansdotter was the first to stand “Lords of the Inner Sphere allow me to welcome you all to the Free Rasalhague Republic, although the Truce of Tukayyid has passed we are still here and will be for decades to come in one form of another.†Christian said he knew this was being broadcast to the people of the Free Rasalhague Republic and was making a good show of it. “It is of great sadness to me that the last four years have not been peaceful with the outbreak of half-a-dozen wars and troubles throughout the Inner Sphere however I am pleased to say the Star League Defence Force has prevailed against all that has come its way in aggression and that in recent years the SLDF have grown in proportion to the troubles they are now facing and that the SLDF if used correctly will be a force in the Inner Sphere for decades to come.†He said looking around the room the Draconis Combine leader Hohiro Kurita was impassive as always, the new Lyran Archon Peter Steiner-Davion looked nervous, while the Capellan Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao looked confident. “The first piece of business today it the confirmation of the Taurian Concordat, Word of Blake and ComStar as full voting members of the Star League.†He said looking at the three new leaders at the tables the Taurian Protector Grover Sharplen had chosen to sit with Sun-Tzu Liao and Magestix Naomi Centrella instead of taking a table of his own. While the ComStar Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht and the Word of Blake Precentor-Martial Cameron St. Jamis sat staring angrily at each other. “Although all three of these organisations have been involved in heavy combat over the last three years†that was the understatement of the decade and no mistake. The Taurian capital city had been nuked and the ComGuards and Word of Blake Militia were fighting at this very minute in the Terran system. “However their sponsors still stand by them and all three nations have been admitted to the SLDF with full voting rights.†Christian said realising why Sun-Tzu Liao looked so happy he now had the Magistracy of Canopus and Taurian votes behind him making a major force behind him. With the Lyran Alliance having a new leader and most of the other nations having led the Star League already only the Federated Suns leader Victor Steiner-Davion could stand in his way, Christian knew what needed to be done. “I will now call for nominations for a new First Lord to be called.†He said as soon as he had spoken the words Protector Grover Sharplen shot to his feet.
“Mighty lords of the Inner Sphere the choice for the new First Lord is obviously his Celestial Wisdom. A man who has brought two nations into the Star League and who has ensured that the marauding hordes of House Davion and of the Free World Remnant are held in check.†He said glancing at Victor Steiner-Davion and the Federated Suns table, Victor remained completely calm and controlled by Grover’s words not even looking at the Taurian leader. “The Taurian Concordat takes its first brave step into the…†he continued and Sun-Tzu Liao visibly elbowed him in the back of the knee, Grover bent forward in pain and got the message loud and clear “the Taurian Concordat nominates the Capellan Confederation leader Celestial Wisdom Sun-Tzu Liao as First Lord.†Grover said sitting down massaging the back of his leg.
“Does the Capellan leader accept this nomination?†Christian Mansdotter asked Sun-Tzu never even spoke a word just nodding. “The chair accepts the Capellan leader accepts this nomination. Is there a second to this nomination?â€
“The Magistracy of Canopus will happily second the Capellan Confederation’s nomination.†Naomi Centrella said remaining seated closely beside Sun-Tzu.
“The Capellan Confederation leader is nominated for the post of First Lord. Is there a second nomination?â€
“The Lyran Alliance will vote for the most stable of the Inner Sphere leaders of the current era, First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion. Not only has my brother began cleaning up the troubles in the Inner Sphere he has been a constant source for support for the SLDF†Morgan Hasek-Davion nodded his agreement to that “and to the Lyran Alliance in ending the troubles in the Skye Province. Not only this the Federated Suns has been the only nation in the Inner Sphere not to launch offensive campaigns against other nations in the last few years the Capellan Confederation and the Taurian Concordat have both invaded regions of the Federated Suns. I believe the Federated Suns Leader is most deserving of the Star League’s vote.†Archon Peter Steiner-Davion said looking at Sun-Tzu smirking. The Capellan leader may have support but so did the Federated Suns he could see Sun-Tzu do the calculations in his head, now he was in for a fight.
“Does the Federated Suns First Prince accept this nomination?†Christian asked looking at Victor Steiner-Davion who raised from his seat.
“I do, and I would like to congratulate the Lyran Archon on his accession to the leadership of the Lyran people and offer any aide necessary to the rehabilitation of Tharkad City which was heavily damaged by Clan Wolf.†Victor said Peter stood again.
“The Lyran Alliance expresses its thanks.†He said and sat down, discussions about aide would happen later.
“Is there a second for this nomination?â€
“The St Ives Compact seconds the Federated Suns nomination, the Capellan Confederation will never hold the post as long as St Ives remains free.â€
“Then I will just have to crush it.†Sun-Tzu whispered just audible gaining angry gazes from around the room including looks from the Star League table which had headquarters just one jump away from any St Ives troubles.
“The Federated Suns leader’s nomination is confirmed the vote will be between Capellan Confederation leader Sun-Tzu Liao and Federated Suns leader Victor Steiner-Davion and will take place tomorrow at the same time. This meeting of the Star League council is ended. I would ask people to watch were they go there are classes in session today.†Christian said, although ComStar had abandoned this facility the Star League still had hundreds of cadets training here as part of an agreement with ComStar. Throughout the room people began to leave there would be meetings taking place throughout the day but the main event was over.
Less than an hour after the end of the first meeting of the Conference Sun-Tzu Liao had done all the calculations he would need to make the Magistracy and Taurian Concordat would vote for him. But the Lyran Alliance and St Ives Compact would counter them leaving ComStar, the Word of Blake, the Free Rasalhague Republic and the Draconis Combine as free votes. As far as he could tell the Word of Blake would support his claim to the First Lord title giving him three to Victor’s two. ComStar and the Free Rasalhague Republic would be hard to convince to support him but perhaps the Draconis Combine Coordinator could be persuaded to lend his support. Sun-Tzu set up a meeting with Hohiro Kurita the later that evening. Hohiro Kurita the proud leader of the Draconis Combine entered the room with his head held high Sun-Tzu decided to follow Draconis Combine tradition and gave Hohiro a deep formal bow despite their equal standing in rank. Hohiro to his credit returned the bow. “Chancellor, you wished to speak with me?â€
“Correct.†Sun-Tzu said “I was wondering what it would take for the Draconis Combine to support me over the Federated Suns leader to the position of First Lord. I was wondering if the Draconis Combine would honour the Concord of Kapetyn†he said mentioning the document that had linked the Free Worlds League, Capellan Confederation and Draconis Combine in a loose alliance against the Federated Commonwealth prior to the Fourth Succession War. He immediately noticed Hohiro’s face turn sour at its mention “however that agreement has far outlived its usefulness.†Hohiro nodded “so I wondered what would tempt you to side with me in the vote.â€
“The schematics of Stealth Armour construction and operation.†Hohiro said mentioning the Capellan’s special weapon of all the realms the Capellans had been the first to get close to replicating the Ancient Star League-era Null-Signature System that did an effective job of hiding a BattleMech although its integration in OmniMechs was still a ways off. “This would be delivered to me before the vote takes place and it would be printed in the language we have in common, English not an obscure Han, dialect.†Hohiro said smiling remembering the story that the Capellans had agreed to trade the information to Lyran Archon Katherine Steiner-Davion but had done so in an ancient derivative of Chinese spoken by very few people mostly based in the Capellan Confederation.
“That is possible. Anything else?†Sun-Tzu asked loosing the monopoly on Stealth Armour would be a blow but according to intelligence both the Federated Suns and Lyran Alliance were close to cracking its secrets, he may as well make a profit on it this time.
“Assuming you become First Lord†Hohiro said “you provide us with a company of Men Shen OmniMechs, the design has always interested me.†Hohiro said naming the only Capellan OmniMech.
“Really, perhaps we could discuss further trade of the design? WarShip parts that I could use against House Davion or perhaps some Sunder OmniMechs could greatly benefit my realm.†Sun-Tzu said suddenly seeing an opportunity the capture of the Delos had been a great success for his realm but finding suitable parts to complete the Thera-class carrier was not easy, the Draconis Combine’s greater resources could help him greatly.
“Perhaps, we shall see. Give us the Stealth Armour and you will have my vote.†Hohiro said bowing deeply before leaving. Sun-Tzu watched the man leave and decided the price was worth it and set in motion plans for the design parameters of the Stealth Armour to be sent immediately. He also set a plan in motion to send the OmniMechs as well even if he didn‘t become First Lord, being on the Draconis Combine’s good graces could be a great benefit.
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Fourth Whitting Conference, Focht War College
Orestes, Free Rasalhague Republic
9th November 3067
In all Sun-Tzu Liao’s scheming and planning he had not considered Morgan Hasek-Davion the Commanding-General of the SLDF and a member of House Davion’s nobility. As they all entered he noticed that Morgan entered with the Federated Suns party Morgan making a point to smile in Sun-Tzu’s direction to ensure he got the message that he wasn’t going to win. Naomi Centrella sitting beside him must have seen something because she leaned in and whispered “are you all right?†Before everyone else sat down.
“Yes†Sun-Tzu whispered back but he wasn’t. If ComStar and the Free Rasalhague Republic voted for Victor that would equal Sun-Tzu’s support and Morgan Hasek-Davion would have the deciding vote which he would never give to Sun-Tzu, whatever happened Sun-Tzu would not be First Lord with Morgan Hasek-Davion as Commanding-General. “It was nice while it lasted.†Sun-Tzu whispered more to himself than anyone else.
“What?†Grover Sharplen asked sitting down beside them.
“Nothing.†Sun-Tzu snapped the Protector of the Taurian Concordat was becoming quite a bore and a drain on Capellan resources, another thorn in the Capellan Confederation’s side, one he may need to remove soon.
“This session of the Star League Council is in progress†Christian Mansdotter said “the vote for a new First Lord. Either Capellan Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao or Federated Suns First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion may be voted into the position of First Lord. The majority carries ties will be broken by the Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion. We will being with Lyran Archon Peter Steiner-Davion.†Christian said sitting down as Peter stood at the Lyran table.
“We will vote for the Federated Suns.†Peter said plainly to the point sitting down the room order now went clockwise with Kai Allard-Liao of the St Ives Compact.
“The St Ives Compact will also vote for the Federated Suns.†Kai said smirking at Sun-Tzu before sitting down. Next in line was Draconis Combine leader Hohiro Kurita.
“The Draconis Combine will lay its support behind the Capellan Confederation. Giving the power of the Star League to a Davion is not the best course of action.†Hohiro said sitting down he looked at neither Sun-Tzu or Victor but Sun-Tzu could see that Victor was shocked by the news, ‘so much for that friendship’ Sun-Tzu thought silently. Because the Federated Suns could not vote for itself and would not vote against their own leader the next to stand was the Precentor-Martial Cameron St. Jamis of the Word of Blake.
“Blake’s Word points to the Capellan Confederation as the greatest way to support the Star League.†Cameron said in an eerie tone “the Word of Blake will support his Celestial Wisdom and the Capellan Confederation.†He said sitting back down brining the vote back into Sun-Tzu’s favour at two each. Christian Mansdotter stood next.
“Originally I was to abstain to this vote.†He said Sun-Tzu’s heart jumped with Rasalhague out of the vote he could win. “However, House Liao will not hold the title of First Lord today. I vote for the Federated Suns.†Sun-Tzu was furious looking at Christian, they had voted directly to stop him! There was little he could do even after this conference the Free Rasalhague Republic was far from the Capellan Confederation’s borders. Next to stand was Grover Sharplen whom Sun-Tzu had said to keep it short.
“Capellan Confederation.†he said and sat down Sun-Tzu smiled that was certainly short enough. On Sun-Tzu’s other side Naomi stood.
“The Magistracy of Canopus also vote for the Capellan Confederation.†she said sitting down, Sun-Tzu nodded his thanks to her as she sat but noticed she was not looking at him but instead over at the Federated Suns table. For this session the heavily pregnant Danai Centrella-Davion had joined Victor Steiner-Davion with their son Burton Davion in her arms parading the baby for the whole Inner Sphere to see. From Naomi’s face he could tell she wanted the same, although neither had talked about it, Sun-Tzu suddenly realised that winning the First Lord had not been what he had gained from this conference, it was greater understanding of the woman he loved. Last to stand was Anastasius Focht, Precentor-Martial of ComStar.
“The Hero of the Clan War and the Slayer of Clan Smoke Jaguar will gain our vote.†Anastasius Focht said “ComStar vote for the Federated Suns.†He said nodding to Victor who returned the nod as he took Burton from Danai and cradled the baby in his arms, Burton seemed very taken with Victor’s campaign ribbons and medals and began pulling at them, Sun-Tzu decided if he ever had children no child of his would ever do such a thing to him.
“The vote is tied at four votes each. The Commanding-General will complete this voting session.†Christian Mansdotter said standing, Morgan Hasek-Davion stood.
“I believe the Star League needs stable leadership to continue to be a force in the Inner Sphere so I must favour the Federated Suns leader Victor Steiner-Davion over the Capellan Chancellor.†He said Victor rose to his feet with Burton still in his arms, the three year-old had taken this as an opportunity to walk over the Federated Suns desk much to the amusement of many around the room.
“Victor Steiner-Davion do you accept the office and responsibilities of the office of the First Lord of the Star League Defence Force.â€
“I do and I will make sure that the Star League has the support it needs to continue to render aid to the Inner Sphere and help defend us from the Clan threat.†He said as Danai also stood scooping Burton up into her arms.
“This session is at an end. Tomorrow will be closing remarks and a final vote before the end of this council.†Christian said now acting as host of the conference instead of the First Lord of the Star League.
Fourth Whitting Conference, Focht War College
Orestes, Free Rasalhague Republic
10th November 3067
The next day’s conference opened with the usual polite introductions. Although technically no longer in charge Elected-Prince (Regent) Christian Mansdotter opened the conference’s third day and acted as spokes person as the host of conference. First to stand and present their case for the vote was Precentor-Martial Cameron St. Jamis of the Word of Blake. “Lords of the great states of the Inner Sphere and most prominent of the Periphery states I come to you to plead for Star League Defence Force Peacekeepers to be deployed in the Terran system.†Cameron said there was a murmur around the room for the SLDF to re-enter the Terran system would go a long way to legitimising the league in the eyes of the Clans who still refused to recognise the reborn Star League Defence Force because they, the descendants of the original league, had not formed it. “The destruction be caused by the ComGuard forces on Terra, Mars and to the Titan Shipyards is costing thousands of lives by the day. Already two cities and three of the Castle Brian fortifications on Terra have been destroyed by ComStar’s use of Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) Warheads. I ask you to stop this madness thank you.†He said sitting down ComStar Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht stood next.
“The Word of Blake is a danger to us all. ComStar has evidence that the forces of the Word of Blake could be as much as eight times stronger than they ever led us to believe and it was they not ComStar who nuked Hong Kong and Riga. We would welcome humanitarian aid and NBC-clean up teams however anyone who stands between ComStar and the Word of Blake’s destruction will be fired upon.†He said warning everyone of the risks, if the SLDF went to Terra there was no guarantee they would be leaving in one piece. All eyes turned to Victor Steiner-Davion who was all business today in his full Marshal of Armies uniform with a Cameron Star attached below his combat medals. Today Danai and Burton Davion were not with him Victor stood slowly.
“Although I would want to help the people of Terra anyway possible we cannot leave the Clan borders completely unprotected. The Leaders of the Inner Sphere must think of their own people as well. The decision on whether SLDF troops will be deployed to Terra will go before this council. Could the Lyran Alliance please start the voting.†Victor said sitting back down.
“No†Peter Steiner-Davion said after a few moments of thought.
“Yes†Kai Allard-Liao of the St Ives Compact said shocking several members of the council most apparent was the shock on Anastasius Focht’s fact.
“No†Hohiro Kurtia said not moving, he knew the damage a Clan attack could do and would not give away support to a forgone place like Terra, as far as he was concerned the world could burn.
“No†Victor Steiner-Davion said, if the First Lord did not support this then there was little chance of the motion being passed Cameron St. Jamis looked furious.
“No†Christian Mansdotter representing the Free Rasalhague Republic said, not a real shock since ComStar had been all that was protecting the remaining worlds of the Republic until recently, that burden now fell on the SLDF.
“Yes†Grover Sharplen said.
“Yes†Sun-Tzu Liao said for once the two Capellan peoples were united in decision he looked at Kai Allard-Liao briefly amazingly Kai offered him a smile and a shrug of the shoulders.
“Yes†Naomi Centrella said confirming the Capellan block’s standing.
“No†Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion said. “The Star League Defence Force is no-where near strong enough to be a shield between the ComGuard and the Word of Blake. We can offer Humanitarian aid and nuclear clean-up but I will not recall the SLDF and leave the Clan borders unprotected not now the Truce of Tukayyid has passed.†He said explaining his decision. The motion needed more than fifty percent to pass so it failed Victor turned to Cameron St. Jamis.
“All we can offer is what the Commanding-General offered.â€
“Then you can all burn in hell!†Cameron St. Jamis screamed the two Royal Black Watch guards stepped into the room “with the Third Transfer completed you have abandoned Blake’s plan! This was not how it should be! Your people will all burn!†He shouted leaving the conference screaming pushing the two guards out of the way as he charged out.
Less than an hour later everyone would hear of the use of more nuclear weapons in the Terran system as the Word of Blake vented its anger destroying the ComGuard forces on Terra driving them back to their foothold on Titan and Mars by destroying Cape Town and the Holy City of Baghdad with Nuclear Weapons. Although the act wipes out five Divisions of ComStar forces it also wipes out four Divisions of Word of Blake troops including the Thirteenth Marik Militia which had gone AWOL from the degenerated Free Worlds League three years before.
“This meeting of the Star League is at a close. I hope to see you all in three years on New Avalon and that you all have a safe journey home.†Victor said breaking up the conference. He was surprised to look up only a few seconds to see Kai Allard-Liao standing there in front of him. “I didn’t expect that.†Victor said quietly, “not like you to vote with the Capellans.â€
“Not my first choice however the Word of Blake offered us three BattleMech designs and the design parameters for C3 and C3i Computers as well as all the data they had on the Capellan’s Stealth Armour.â€
“They were desperate. Still you could have come to me or Anastasius if you needed help or information.†Victor said as Focht appeared at Kai’s side.
“Victor, your help and your father’s help have kept the St Ives Compact alive since its formation as have ComStar’s financial backing however you will not always be here and I cannot trust my nation’s security to others. We needed to do this our own way. I did the vote in my head and knew it would come down to Morgan’s vote and he would never vote against you with the Capellans so I was safe. I’m surprised the Word didn’t see it as well.â€
“They did†Anastasius said quietly “they just chose to ignore it believing they would get their own way. Like spoilt children, all they do is want. It is time they got the smack they deserve. ComStar does not hold this against the Compact. Again my congratulations on your ascension First Lord, Excuse me.†He said nodding to Victor before leaving the room. Victor watched him leave then turned back to Kai.
“I understand why you did that Kai, you made the tough call, your mother would be proud.â€
“Thank you First Lord. I was wondering if you’d be interested in the Stealth Armour schematics?â€
“What do you want in return?â€
“Oh nothing much a WarShip, maybe, or at least rights to buy one.†Kai said Victor was completely floored by the request, the St Ives Compact really was arming itself. He looked at Jackson Davion who was standing beside him remaining silent covering his surprise remarkably well nodding his agreement to the idea.
“We could sell you a Davion III-class Destroyer?†Victor said again glancing at Jackson “it would have to be built to order, I won’t send you one already in service.â€
“Of course, we can wait.â€
“I will have costs and schedules drawn up as soon as I get home.†Victor promised selling a WarShip would be a nice piece of income for the Federated Suns.
“I will have the Stealth Armour sent to you before you leave.†Kai said extending his hand Victor shook it strongly. “Congratulations on your attaining your new position and I will see you soon.†Kai said nodding then leaving the room. Victor watched his friend leave then turned to Jackson.
“Are you as surprised as me?†Victor asked unsure if what had just happened had actually happened.
“No, the St Ives Compact is very vulnerable at present we only have two under strength regiments based there.†Jackson said laying it straight with the Capellans concentrating on other fronts the Federated Suns had routed forces to other problems.
“Rotate the Davion Light Guards in from New Syrtis to replace one of the other units and have George Hasek route one of the WarShips assigned to the Capellan March through the St Ives Compact show the flag, just make sure we clear it first.â€
“Of course.†Jackson said quietly “what now?â€
“Home.†Victor said thinking of Danai and Burton in the DropShip already waiting for his return, the sooner he was back in the Federated Suns the safer he’d feel.
“We will have the Black Watch and the Unity City with us, shouldn‘t be any trouble.â€
“We’re in trouble.†Victor said as they moved from the room the pair of Black Watch guards dropped into step behind them. Jackson took several moments to catch his meaning then burst into laughter, as if anything would happen just because he said so.
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Parliament buildings
Orestes, Erinyes
Free Rasalhague Republic
5th December 3067
With all foreign leaders gone and to the entire Inner Sphere Elected-Prince (Regent) Christian Mansdotter announced that the Free Rasalhague Republic was withdrawing from the Star League and that all Star League and other foreign personnel would have a month to leave the Rasalhague borders and that anyone unable to leave would be helped by the Rasalhague government. ComStar and the Star League Defence Force would be given three years to move their facilities on Tukayyid, including the Focht War College. Christian Mansdotter refuses to answer any questions about the Republic’s move only that it was an honour to serve as the First Lord of the reborn Star League and that this was for the good of all Rasalhague citizens and asks the people of the Inner Sphere to respect the decision.
Two days later a Baron-class Destroyer, nearly identical to the one the Snow Ravens destroyed in the Dante system, enters the Tukayyid system and destroys the Enlightened Path, a ComStar registered Volga-class Transport and then begins the bombardment of Tukayyid’s capital city Memoria and more directly the Focht War College. Luckily the Star League Advisory council and the Knights of the Inner Sphere had moved from the planet, moving to join the First Lord of New Avalon, with the majority of ComStar’s personnel fighting the Word of Blake in the Terran system even they get off lightly in casualties with the people of Tukayyid suffering at the hands of the unknown WarShip. By the breaking of the bombardment over one hundred thousand civilians have been killed, the ComStar Battle Armour Factory in Memoria has been totally gutted and the Focht War College is left burning.
An hour into the bombardment a Nightlord-class Battleship identified as the Ursula Major of Clan Ghost Bear enters the system via a pirate point and destroys the vessel then takes up stationary orbit as Ghost Bear troops land on the world. In the Orestes system a Leviathan 2-class Battleship, identified as the newly completed Rasalhague enters the system and Ghost Bear DropShips begin descending on the world. First Lord Victor-Steiner-Davion en-route home to the Federated Suns offers to route forces to the Rasalhague Republic to help in the defence of the nation against the Clan threat however Christian Mansdotter warns him that if they come to the Republic they will be fired upon. The very next day Prince Ragnar Magnesson, a Star Colonel within the Ghost Bears, announces the Free Rasalhague Republic have joined the Ghost Bear Dominion voluntarily and have united the Rasalhague people under a single banner.
Clan Occupation Zones
Jade Falcon/Wolf Territory
21st December 3067
Reeling from the announcement that the Free Rasalhague Republic had joined the Ghost Bears effectively blocking their charge towards Terra the two major Crusader Clans in the Inner Sphere, the Wolves and Jade Falcons, are taken by complete surprise when Clan Hell’s Horse launch a massive invasion of their Periphery borders taking nineteen worlds, mostly in the Clan Wolf OZ, in a matter of days following a series of Trials of Possession. It soon becomes apparent that almost the entire Hell’s Horse Clan have come to the Inner Sphere almost completely abandoning their Clan Homeworlds holdings. Clan Wolf rapidly loose the First Wolf Grenadiers Cluster of Omega Galaxy before retreating to more important worlds deeper in the Inner Sphere causing only light damage to the incoming Hell’s Horses troops.
And so ends 3067, hopefully you've enjoyed it
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This is great. What more is to come.
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This is great. What more is to come.
Ask and I will answer... so far the timeline is written in this format until the end of 3085. However I have a framework that leads up to 3191 in differing levels of detail. I need to fluff out sections of the story (certain years have 1 event at present) but the frame is there all is needed is the detail
3068
Dragoon’s Memorial
Harlech City Outskirts
Outreach, Chaos March
4th January 3068
In the months following the hostilities on Outreach the remaining Wolf’s Dragoons had been able to secure Outreach enough for things to begin to return to normal, Harlech City still lay mostly in ruins but the Dragoons were allowing limited off-worlders onto the world. Today was a special day for the Dragoons and for the wider Inner Sphere. The Dragoons were saying a final goodbye to Jamie Wolf and the other Dragoons lost in the Battle of Outreach.
The Walls of Honour were a series of four-metre long, five metre high rectangle blocks of polished black marble that lay on the Outskirts of Outreach. On the walls the names of every honourable Mercenary and the unit they were part of was written, a practice that had begun in 3060 by the Dragoons and the MRBC to honour those fallen and to make sure ‘hired-gun‘ warriors were never forgotten by their kin or by the states that had hired them.
The Dragoons had commissioned an entirely new wall for their own recent casualties with Jamie Wolf’s name right at the very top. None of the Dragoons talked about Jamie Wolf or his life these were facts that had been well catalogued. Instead in front of the leaders of the Inner Sphere, including the new First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion and his wife Danai Centrella-Davion, General Maeve Wolf stepped forwards from the gathering holding a small urn. Maeve snapped to a salute, first in Inner Sphere style with a flattened hand to her forehead then with a cross chest fist salute in Clan style. Many of the other military officers in the crowd copied her Inner Sphere style salute while many of the Dragoons used a Clan salute reflecting Jamie’s and their own origins as members of Clan Wolf. Maeve then turned her back to the wind and turned the urn upsides down slowly allowing the ash to be taken by the strong wind carrying Jamie’s remains over Lake Kearny on which Harlech rested.
As guests and out of respect Victor and Danai followed the other example and also saluted to the ashes, the wall and the gathered Dragoons and Victor began to speak “I did not know Jamie Wolf as well as I would have liked, I did not learn everything I would have liked to learn…†he began however right at that moment as the last of Jamie Wolf’s ashes left the urn Danai Centrella-Davion went into labour with her water breaking. Eight hours later in a Dragoon Medical facility outside Harlech in the first hour of the 5th January Victor and Danai’s second child Jaylen Davion entered the world.
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
Nueva Castile Space
Periphery
17th January 3068
Following the Hell’s Horses successful entrance into the Inner Sphere, via an Invasion of the Clan Wolf OZ, Clan Ice Hellion attempt to replicate their success by launching their own invasion. Unfortunately for the Hellions the Clans have fortified themselves following the entrance of the Hell’s Horses and the Hellions are unable to concentrate their forces on one area. After dozens of failed Trials of Possession and the loss of six WarShips, the largest being in the Outpost system of the Wolf OZ where four Ice Hellion WarShips and an entire Galaxy of warriors are lost when they encounter most of the Wolf WarShip fleet at the Wolves primary Inner Sphere WarShip facility. Although the Ice Hellions gain a temporary foothold in the Bone-Norman system of the Jade Falcon OZ they are soon driven out and forced to retreat. The Hellions retreat into the Periphery but do not go far assaulting the tiny realm of the Nueva Castile.
The Umayyad and Castilian forces that occupy the Nueva Castile would be lucky to survive an assault by a front-line Mercenary force let alone one of the Clans desperate for a home and are annihilated however the Ice Hellions do not find salvation in the resource poor Nueva Castile. To survive the Ice Hellions have two choices, return to the Clan Homeworlds en masse and attempt to recapture their abandoned territory there or try to attack the Inner Sphere Clans Occupation Zone again. For now they decide to catch their breath and lick their wounds.
Grand Council Chambers
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
21st January 3068
The Grand Council of the Khans had been convened at the request of Khan Santin West. Surprisingly most of the Khans had decided to make an appearance with only Khan Marthe Pryde of the Jade Falcons absent, her proxy Timur Malthus sat in her stead. “The floor recognises the Khan of Clan Nova Cat, Santin West.†Kael Pershaw said as Santin stood at his place in the chambers, unlike standard procedure where Khans wore their ceremonial uniforms to Grand Council meetings Santin had chosen to wear a duty uniform. The only thing that was missing was Canin Rosse was still ten days away, Santin would have liked some back-up.
“My thanks Loremaster†Santin began “My fellow Khans the Ulric’s infernal Truce of Tukayyid has passed and the campaign to conqueror the Inner Sphere will soon begin again.†He began play to the Crusader mindset of the Clans then surprise them. “The Nova Cats have decided that it is time to reveal where we have built our new holdings, so that all the Clans can understand we may not be present but we are strong.†He said pressing a button on the desk in front of him activating the room’s holographic display which first showed the Kerensky Cluster and the Pentagon Worlds that made up the Clan Homeworlds. The Display panned down through the Deep Periphery which separated the Homeworlds from the Inner Sphere. The Display did not however stop over the Clan Occupation Zones or go any deeper into the Inner Sphere instead it began moving around the Draconis Combine borders past the small territory held by the Jarnfolk, which many Clans believed the Nova Cats controlled but in fact the Nova Cats had not even contacted this remote holding. Instead the display panned down past the Outworlds Alliance and settled over the Tortuga Dominions which grew to accommodate New Barcella, the Varnay System and the newly colonised New Circe system. “My fellow Khans this is the Nova Cat’s Den, this is the Nova Cat’s new Homeworlds.†Santin said shutting the display off the map only gave general locations of the newly colonised worlds but anyone with half a brain could begin to close down their actual locations and the men and women in this room were among the most intelligent in all the Clans.
“You broke the Truce line ten years ago!†Timur Malthus screamed “this is a direct affront to all the Clans! If you had been discovered they may have decided to annihilate all the Invading Clans!†He shouted standing up “I declare…!â€
“A Trial of Refusal!†The Steel Viper Khan Brett Andrews said before Timur could finish “you have endangered us all. You will fight me or the next call will be for the abjuration of Clan Nova Cat.†He said threatening to throw the Nova Cats out of Clan society was a big threat considering there was three Galaxies and half a dozen WarShips in Clan Space at present.
“I accept. Name a place and time.â€
“The place is here the time is now!†Brett Andres said stepping down from the Steel Viper podium.
“Gentlemen please this is not the place for this!†Kael Pershaw said trying to get some order in the council chambers however no-one was listening.
“I accept.†Santin said stepping down from the Nova Cat stand.
“This is highly irregular, I call for order!â€
“Shut up!†Timur Malthus shouted at the Loremaster of the Council as the two warriors began to fight, there were no rules or honour given or offered between them. Brett Andrews was younger than West by almost ten years and for a MechWarrior he was tall but he was a far lighter build than Santin West and less cautious. Brett leaned in with a series of jabs directed at Santin‘s ribs, the massive muscles of the Nova Cat Khan absorbed the hits then Santin got to work delivering a series of blows to the Steel Viper Khan beating him into a pulp then tossing him on the ground Santin moved over and dropped on Brett Andrews knocking the wind out of the Steel Viper Khan and breaking at least three ribs. “End it!†Malthus said the Steel Vipers and Jade Falcons had always been enemies the death of the Steel Viper Khan would be a major victory for the Jade Falcons especially if they had to do nothing.
“This Trial is ended.†Santin said picking himself up walking back towards the Nova Cat box.
“And another begins.†Riana Montrose Khan of Clan Ice Hellion said stepping down, she was a massive Elemental almost twice as tall as Santin West, who was short for an Elemental and had a far broader chest. “There will be no grace period you will fight me.†Riana said to Santin’s back, her voice full of anger obviously angry because the Nova Cats had found a new Home and prospered while her Clan tittered on the brink of destruction in the Deep Periphery due to a failed invasion. The Nova Cat Khan slowly turned and just nodded, this was a fight he knew he could not win but the Nova Cats needed the time his death would bring them to secure their positions before the Clan onslaught. He knew Canin could do the job that was required. The following battle was a short brutal one as Brett Andrews was carried away Riana Montrose did not leave Santin West to be carried away instead she killed him quickly and efficiently as any Clan Warrior would want to die. The other Khans called for the Nova Cats to be abjured for their disregard for the Truce of Tukayyid however Clans Diamond Shark, Snow Raven, Ghost Bear, Cloud Cobra and surprisingly Goliath Scorpions all supported the Nova Cats saving them from immediate repercussions.
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Crazy Ice Hellion See their insanity
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Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
2nd February 3068
On the second of February with the Clans still angry at the Nova Cats announcement about the location of their new Den and just before saKhan Canin Rosse’s arrival in the Homeworlds the Steel Viper vessels Coiled Serpent, a Vincent Mk-42-class Corvette, the Snake Pit, a Lola III-class Destroyer, and Martial Legacy, an Essex-class Destroyer attack the Nova Cat Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser Thunderbolt outside a Trial. Although the Nova Cat vessel is able to destroy the Coiled Serpent and Snake Pit before being lost the Battle-cruiser is unable to overcome all the vessels arrayed against it. The loss is the first of many for the Nova Cats WarShip fleet.
At almost the same time Clan Ice Hellion WarShips assaulted the Righteous Return, a Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette, and Growler, a Lola III-class Destroyer, in the Barcella system destroying both vessels loosing the vessel Chaos Sailor, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, which they scuttle to stop the Nova Cats salvaging the vessel. A Nova Cat crew go aboard the vessel in attempts to stabilize the vessel however it is too far gone and they abandon the vessel to the depths of space.
On the 4th February just as Canin Rosse arrives in the Homeworlds well aware of the other attacks against his Clan. The three Nova Cat WarShips (Lucian Carns, Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, Vision Quest, Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, and Far Vision, Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette) and a dozen JumpShips carrying Delta Galaxy are more than ready when three Jade Falcon vessels that approach and attack them in the Bearclaw system of the Kerensky Cluster. In a brief one sided battle the Nova Cats destroy the Turkina’s Pride, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser and capture the Liberator-class Cruiser Gauntlet driving off the remaining Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser White Aerie loosing only the Far Vision, a Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette, the Nova Cat's superior skill and experience proving too much for the Falcon vessels. Canin sends most of Delta Galaxy and the newly captured Gauntlet, with the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Vision Quest as escort, to the Barcella system taking the Lucian Carns and the Watch Cluster to Strana Mechty.
Clan Grand Council
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
17th February 3068
For a saKhan to have called for a Grand Council was a strange and uncommon event, for a saKhan of a Clan without a senior Khan to have called for the Council was unheard of, standard procedure was for a new Khan to be sworn in before retributions were called for in-case the saKhan was also killed or incapacitated in the following Trials of Position.
Canin Rosse had however dispensed with any pretence of following procedure and called for the Grand Council. Once all the Khans were assembled he stood up and addressed the Khans not waiting for the Loremaster to announce the opening of the Council. “My fellow Khans I come to you under the most grave of circumstances.†He noticed that several of the Khans scoffed at his words, Canin would set them straight. “Not only was Khan Santin West killed on this very floor without time to prepare for the trial or the grace required before a second.†He said looking around the Khans Canin noticed several look to the floor ashamed of the events that had followed Santin West’s death most obviously Khan Brett Andrews still recovering from his injuries caused fighting Santin West “but then several of the Khans in this room authorized their Clans to launch unprovoked attacks against the Nova Cat WarShip fleet without issuing trials against these vessels blatant disregard for Clan tradition or any semblance of honour!!" Canin allowed his anger to boil to the fore showing all the Clans exactly how far they had fallen. Looking around the room Canin knew his words hit home on a few, but actions would be required to show the others just how wrong they were.
"Now if we have abandoned the traditions set down by the Founder" he continued further shaming of the Clans, a risk but a calculated one Canin knew the vast majority of the Nova Cats were safe far from the reaches of any of the Clans. "Then perhaps I should order my Nova Cats to level this building, and perhaps his city,†he threatened. He noticed outraged faces on several of the Khans, including the Nova Cat’s traditional allies, few knew the young Nova Cat Khan well enough to knew exactly where he would take this “as it appears that no-one has the honour to conduct business like a member of the Clans.â€
“saKhan Nova Cat, watch your words or your Clan will go the way of the Not-named.†Khan Vlad Ward warned refusing to name the Wolverine Clan which had been annihilated for its disregard for Clan tradition and its use of Nuclear weapons against a Snow Raven Genetic Repository. Canin nodded to the Wolf Khan, of all the Khans present Vlad Ward was probably the only Khan Canin truly respected.
“Fine" he stated "I shall honour Clan tradition. Brett Andrews, I challenge you to a Circle of Equals we have business to settle.†Canin said turning to the Steel Viper Khan who looked shocked that his name had been called out, he almost smiled the Steel Viper Khan had been beaten heavily by Santin West so the Steel Vipers had lashed out thinking they could get away with attacking the Nova Cat’s WarShip Fleet, the Steel Vipers had only just begun to pay. The Steel Viper Khan struggled to stand under his heavy bandages “wait, I shall allow you more time to recuperate.†Canin said raising a hand showing the honour Santin West did not receive. Brett Andrews nodded his appreciation then slumped back into his chair “saKhan Nicole Hoskins, your Khan is unable to fight me. You will fight me or your Clan will pay the price.†Canin said looking to the young woman sitting beside the Khan. At thirty-two years Nicole’s codex was almost as strong as Canin’s a ristar from the time she left the sibkos she had become saKhan following the Steel Viper retreat from Lum in 3065.
“Would the Nova Cats be willing to accept ransom to quell their anger?†She asked raising at her position she was smart enough to know that Canin had prepared for today and his anger needed to be quelled. But she also realized that the Nova Cats were one of the more reasonable Clans to trade with. There was a couple of smiles from around the room but Canin did not take his face off the Steel Viper saKhan. “I have no wish to fight when it is obvious that we are in the wrong" she said berating Brett Andrews so publicly there could be further changes in the Steel Viper leadership without a Circle of Equals today. Nicole Hoskins continued "and, unlike others, I will not dishonour this chamber any more than it has been. Can a compromise be reached, Quiaff?†She asked more forcefully this time Canin suppressed a smile, he couldn't help but respect her words despite her physical inaction.
“Aff, you will deliver to us the WarShips Constrictor and Steel Python.†He said naming a Whirlwind-class Destroyer and an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser the addition of these vessels would go a long way to replacing the losses the Nova Cats had taken, although it would take years to train new crews to the effectiveness of the lost crews.
“Two WarShips, Preposterous!!†Brett Andrews exclaimed coughing as his ribs ached, first his saKhan had dealt with an adversary instead of fighting and now he could see the cost.
“Two WarShips or the lives of two Khans.†Canin said plainly “simply put we get the ransom of two WarShips or I will kill you both in these chambers today, cracked ribs or not.†Canin threatened stepping down onto the floor not taking his eyes off the two Steel Viper Khans.
“saKhan Rosse, this is an honourable chamber, we will not have more fighting. Return to your position.†Kael Pershaw said standing up, he seemed to take charge when he felt like it, something Canin Rosse would soon settle. Turning around Canin looked at the Loremaster he could barely hid his disdain looking at the Jade Falcon warrior.
“Make me.†Canin demanded looking at the elderly Loremaster. Nova Cats generally respected elder warriors, especially bloodnamed ones, for their greater wisdom, skill and their ability to live for so long in the cut-throat Clan society however with Pershaw all Canin saw was an old man trying to control a younger man’s world.
“What did you say?†Kael asked his voice raising with his anger.
“Make me.†Canin repeated looking at the Elemental “if you had half the bottle to stand up during the time of Santin West then my Khan would still be here. Now sit down before I make you.†Canin said, he heard several muffled laughs from around the room as he turned back to the Steel Viper Khans, as he turned he caught a glimpse of the Wolf Khan, Vlad Ward a huge predatory smile crossing his lips. “Deal or no Deal?†He asked looking at the two Steel Viper leaders.
“Deal, the vessels you want will be delivered as soon as we can.†Nicole Hoskins quickly answered.
“A prize crew for both vessels will arrive in the Marshall system this afternoon, ensure they are ready.†He said turning to the next target in this little exercise “Galaxy Commander Timur Malthus! I challenge you to a Circle of Equals.†Canin said looking at the Jade Falcon Khan-Proxy, the elder warrior looked shocked that his name had been called out.
“On what grounds?†Timur asked quietly knowing he was in trouble.
“The Jade Falcon WarShip group that welcomed me to the Homeworlds, the Gauntlet has been taken as Isorla and will serve the Nova Cats, and your actions on the day of Santin West’s death.â€
“I had nothing to do with that.†Timur protested confidently, it was true that he had done nothing only started the events that led to Santin’s death.
“Wrong, the challenge stands with Clan Wolf support.†Vlad Ward said standing up. “Of all whom is guilty the Jade Falcons are the worse offenders. Also we have sensor data from the Bearclaw system where the Jade Falcons assaulted saKhan Rosse and all I can say is they lost badly.†He said smiling “the Wolves fully support the Nova Cats and congratulate them for taking the advantage and conquering the Tortuga Dominions, a rouge state the barbaric Inner Sphere allowed to continue. They did what no-one in the Inner Sphere was capable of doing and they did it under all of our noses. The Wolves respect there ability and opportunistic actions for creating a future by eliminating a specter of the past that even the Great Father's Star League did not completely quell. If the Jade Falcons refuse this challenge Clan Wolf will join Clan Nova Cat in any retribution strikes they believe are necessary.†Any chance to hurt the Jade Falcons the Wolves would take.
“Galaxy Commander, I am waiting.†Canin said looking at the man, he did not even use the Khan-Proxy title created by Marthe Pryde just so she would not have to be here.
“And If I refuse.â€
“If you refuse you will be kicked out of these chambers.†Kael Pershaw said, Malthus looked at the Loremaster with a betrayed look, they were both Jade Falcons but the Loremaster was siding against him. Although the Loremaster did not know it, even this action would not save him.
“And the Nova Cats will launch a full assault on Jade Falcon holdings with its full fury, I believe Clan Nova Cat have five WarShips, four Galaxies of troops, mostly front-line, all available for deployment and nothing to lose!†Canin said his anger continuing to show, around the room there was some shocked looks and some very worried looks, Canin Rosse had always been in the background and none of them had taken a former-member of the Watch seriously as a Khan or anything near their equal. Now he was making his position felt in the Clan Council and none of the Khans liked the look of things to come. Only Khan Vlad Ward smiled as events unfolded, he’d watched the Nova Cat Exodus from Clan Space and known they were up to something but as long as they hadn’t come near his Occupation Zone he didn’t care, now they had returned and they were causing the Jade Falcons plenty of trouble which he liked. Standing there Canin wondered if they were buying his anger and not seeing he was venting his anger and had no intention of fully attacking Jade Falcon territory just then the Jade Falcon Galaxy Commander moved to the floor as he to accepted the challenge.
Like the events of the day Santin West had been killed neither offered the other any honour as they got straight down to the fight. Malthus was at a distinct disadvantage not only was he smaller, older and weaker than Canin, he was also an aerospace fighter pilot who had been bred for the rigors of space and atmospheric combat not hand-to-hand combat. Using his sturdier frame, quicker reflexes and superior skill Canin reached in first with a left punch followed by a right then a kick to the stomach area, every time he hit Malthus Canin could feel something break or a tendon give way and could see the Jade Falcon warrior gasping in pain, from the older man‘s face Canin could tell he hadn’t felt pain in a long time and was having trouble coping with it. Grabbing Malthus’ left arm Canin spun the Jade Falcon warrior to across his body sticking out his left knee to knock the aerospace warrior flat on his face then with a practiced motion with the Jade Falcon warrior at his feet Canin reached forward and grabbing Timur Malthus around the neck and with one fluid motion snapped his neck ending the fight and the Jade Falcon warrior’s life.
Stepping over the warrior as two lower-castemen entered and dragged the body of the broken dead Jade Falcon warrior away, not stopping to breath Canin turned to his next target Riana Montrose, the Khan of Clan Ice Hellion and the killer of Santin West. “Riana Montrose you are called….†Canin began to say again the Grand Council chambers was filled with gasps, all realized that Rosse was ready for them all.
“saKhan Rosse, stop this, you cannot kill everyone in one sitting!†Vlad Ward warned interupting the challenge leaning forward from the Wolves position. Although he respected what the Nova Cat saKhan wanted to accomplish and his directness there was no way he could survive many more fights and Riana Montrose was far fitter a warrior and a more active warrior than Timur Malthus had ever been.
“You are right Khan Ward, however, I do not intend on killing everyone in this room. Not today.†Canin answered turning back to see Riana Montrose’s fist flying towards his face. Canin turned deflecting the punch to his left arm numbing the limb slightly “we shall dispense with the pleasantries then.†Canin said lashing out with a kick into Riana’s chest then ducking away from the Elemental’s punches. Canin knew from excises he had fought against Santin West that this strategy of duck and punch would do little but annoy Riana, or any Elemental, however he did know of several points on where to strike any human, even a monstrous wall of flesh like an Elemental, that would put them down permanently. Ducking right under her left arm Canin lashed out with a pair of jabs to the underside of the shoulder joint right under Riana’s arm. He then moved behind her and kicked her back as she turned. Riana Montrose was a fit and young woman however, Canin’s rapid strikes at the joints and pressure points had come totally unexpected and he could see she was in pain not expecting him to be this proficient at hand-to-hand combat. For a MechWarrior to best an Elemental in hand-to-hand combat it took true proficiency. Riana charged forward attempting the classic Elemental charge and trample however Canin had seen this before, and been on the receiving end of it from Santin West, he'd learned from it and knew the best way of defeating this was leverage. Canin jumped upward kicking off the Star Adder desk catapulting thought the air over Riana, as he passed her he lashed out with a kick catching the Ice Hellion Khan in the side of the head with his combat boots. Riana screamed as she spun hitting Canin mid-air smacking his leg and ribs forcing the Nova Cat saKhan into a compromised landing with an audible thud. Riana showed she was an Elemental again however with her target on the ground she tried to trample him. Canin didn’t even think allowing his body to react using his training at the last moment he sat up with an outstretched leg tripping the Ice Hellion Khan, Riana Montrose soared through the air slamming head first into the Nova Cat podium the velocity and angle of the impact snapping her neck killing her.
Sitting up carefully Canin could feel his ribs strain against the movement, he’d damaged something in the fall, and as he put pressure on his left foot he found more pain, having an Elemental run into it was not the best way to look after any part of your body, his leg was not broken but badly bruised. Moving carefully he tried to show as little of the pain as possible as he retook his position Canin sat down and Loremaster Kael Pershaw began to speak.
“If there is no more business then we should end this session, there has been enough for us all to think about.†He said visibly shocked by the events, Canin wondered if he had been equally shocked by Santin West’s death. None of the other Khans spoke up, Canin had been expecting another challenge however two deaths it seemed was enough for any council sitting.
Clan Grand Council
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
18th February 3068
Following the actions of the day before the Khans were not ready for more trouble in the Grand Hall however Khan Vlad Ward had called them to session. “My fellow Khans I have another piece of business that we did not cover yesterday.†Khan Vlad Ward said standing “I believe the Nova Cat Khan†he said respecting Canin’s ability with a raise in rank above his own and as the Nova Cats had no Khan at present. Even without any Trials from the Clan Vlad could tell he was looking at the next Nova Cat Khan “has made a valid points about you Kael Pershaw. I call for a vote of no-confidence on the ability of Kael Pershaw as Loremaster of this council.†Vlad said shocking the entire council, the Wolves rarely involved themselves in homeworlds politics now with their Occupation Zone. The vote was taken with the Diamond Sharks, Wolves, Star Adders (supporting to increase their position in the Homeworlds), Coyotes, Ghost Bears (via HPG), Steel Vipers (supporting to hurt Jade Falcons), Snow Ravens, Cloud Cobras and Nova Cats (supporting mainly because Canin hurts too much to kill Kael Pershaw.)
With the motion past Kael Pershaw is removed as Loremaster of the Grand Council with Star Adder Loremaster Star Colonel Dagmar Lahiri elevated to the position hours later. Also after the Council Canin Rosse is elevated to the position of Khan by the Nova Cat Galaxy Commanders. Canin makes Galaxy Commander Jal Steiner of Xi Galaxy his new saKhan ending a day of turmoil on Strana Mechty.
Clan politics at its best... hope you enjoyed
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FSS Alexander Davion, C&C
New Stevens System, Zenith Point
Chaos March
8th March 3068
Sitting in what was once the New Stevens system of the Terran Hegemony one jump from the Federated Suns the last thing anyone had expected to happen was for the Alexander Davion and the Unity City to encounter another WarShip let alone five! New Stevens had been one of the old Terran Hegemony’s jewels part of the Lockdale Region, another dead world, it had been the last world before the Core of the Hegemony. Kerensky’s army had torn through the world with no Fixed defences the world had fallen quick enough and become a supply world. However when the SLDF followed Kerensky’s Exodus the world became a target for the massed armies of the Federated Suns, Draconis Combine and Capellan Confederation as they all searched for equipment left over by the Star League armies. All three resorted to tactical nuclear weapons during the First Succession War inevitably the damage done was too much for the world to continue to be inhabited, by the end of the Second Succession War the world was completely abandoned.
Today however there was way too much life in this system for Victor Steiner-Davion, the sophisticated sensors aboard the two WarShips had identified the two front running vessels as a pair of Zechetinu-class Corvettes that had obviously gone rogue from the Free Worlds League. While the three slower moving vessels were a single Naga or Naga II-class Destroyer and a pair of early model Essex-class Destroyers. Since the Word of Blake was the only organisation known to field either type of vessel they had been labelled as Word of Blake vessels. The Unity City had sent a distress call out to all nearby HPG stations informing everyone of this attack against the First Lord however standing on the command deck of the Alexander Davion Victor knew that they were on their own.
“Fleet Admiral, I suggest you withdraw.†Victor said quietly to Andrea Petain, he hated to run from any fight but there was no point taking on five WarShips with the Alexander Davion. The Unity City was fast but it wasn’t well armed or armoured so Victor never even classed it as a fighting asset, which was why he had remained on the Alexander Davion with Danai and his two children. Victor was still getting used to having little Emma around and was slightly shocked that neither of his children had been born on New Avalon. He wished Jackson and the Black Watch had come to Outreach instead of returning to New Avalon, having a dozen DropShips with them and a Regiment of MechWarriors would turn the tide nicely here, that was not going to happen unfortunately.
“We cannot retreat from the system, sire, the Jump engine still needs another six hours of charging and I have ordered the sail taken in for more manoeuvrability.†She didn’t mention the vessel could use its reactors to hot-charge the engine a risky plan. Victor knew this and if he ordered it she would carry out his orders but she would not preside over the loss of the First Prince and his family.
“So what is your plan?†Victor asked he was lost in space, quite literally on the ground he could plan and fight a prolonged campaign but in space he knew nothing, even after the Campaigns against the Clans this environment was still alien to him.
“The two Corvettes are acting independently from the Destroyers.†She said pointing out their relative positions on the Holo-tank. “I want to draw them in along with their DropShips and use our superior firepower to take them out of the equation quickly. Then we could be looking at a slugging match against all three Blake vessels.†She said Victor didn’t like that idea.
“What of the Unity City? They are not equipped for slugging matches.†Victor said, thinking about it either was the Alexander Davion.
“They will hold back and hit the Corvettes at long range with their Naval Lasers while the First Royal Black Watch Wing will fight alongside our fighters. We outweigh the two Corvettes ourselves and our firepower is more than enough to take them.†Andrea said confidently, this vessel was the Flagship of the Federated Suns fleet, the most skilled crew and was named for the most influential First Prince in Federated Suns history she had rights to be confident. “It is these three I am worried about.†She said circling the three Destroyers nearly half an hour behind the two corvettes. “If our sensors are right and they are Essex and Naga-class vessels then they all weigh as much or more than us and the Blakists have probably upgraded them with all the most recent tech available on Terra. Also if they are equipped with aerospace fighter carrier DropShips we could face real trouble.†Victor nodded the Alexander Davion carried a pair of assault DropShips, one Claymore, one Avenger. These small but powerful vessels could eliminate almost any DropShip they might face but against massed fighters they would be overwhelmed and the Alexander Davion only carried twenty fighters of its own.
“Well we will just have to hope there is help nearby.†Victor said quietly, they both knew that was not the case the closest vessel was the Hound-class Corvette FSS Proserpina in orbit of the world of the same name in the Draconis March at least four jumps away far to far for the vessel to be of any help while the leaders of the Capellan Confederation and Draconis Combine may be just as happy to see Victor dead. “How long?â€
“Fourteen minutes.†Andrea said doing the calculations in her head quickly.
“Then I will go below.†Victor said quietly.
“You don’t want to remain?†Andrea asked surprised.
“This is your battlefield Admiral, you and the crew have my full support but I will be better placed out of the way to allow you to do your job. Good hunting.†Victor said leaving the Command Deck with Tigret, his bodyguard and two Royal Black Watch troopers.
“Thank you sire.†Andrea said watching Victor leave, the First Prince had just made her life ten times easier, turning back to her crew. “Right get this ship moving, full military thrust, launch all fighters and DropShips. Inform the Unity City of our move. Helm, I want to hit those two Corvettes as fast as possible then about turn and run like hell, we are not getting into a slugging match, not yet.†There were half a dozen ayes and the Alexander Davion began to move. The Fighters and DropShips of the Alexander Davion were quickly joined by forty fighters of the Black Watch and their Vengeance-class DropShip Carrier. “Have our fighters and DropShips concentrate on the port vessel the Black Watch on the right.â€
“What of their DropShips and fighters?†the comm. officer asked after relaying the orders, Andrea guessed it was a question from her own fighter commanders. She remained silent for a moment looking at the range clocks.
“Weapons, forward Gauss rifles on those two DropShips.†She ordered answering the question the Alexander Davion’s two front-arc mounted Light Naval Gauss Rifles fired in unison the sound echoing through the vessel as the two weapons fired. The Light Naval Gauss was a upped sized version of the BattleMech mounted Gauss Rifle and the although the smallest capable of mounting on a WarShip it was still a very capable weapon. The weapon had awesome range and damage perfect for taking out the enemy DropShips in a single strike which they did shattering both vessels in an instant. “There’s your answer, the enemy fighters†she counted sixteen in total “are to be left for our gunners. Have to leave them something.†She said smiling the destruction of the enemy DropShips had lifted a weight off. The comm. officer was also smiling as he relayed the orders.
The two enemy corvettes returned fire with Naval Lasers causing some damage to the Alexander Davion’s forward armour but nothing critical. As the vessels closed the Alexander Davion’s forward guns four Naval Autocannons backed by four Naval Lasers and the two Light Naval Gauss Rifles opened fire almost in unison. At this range the weapons fire was not very accurate one of the autocannons did however hit and penetrate the armour of the port Zechetinu causing heavy damage and several decompressions along its forward-port area. All four Naval lasers also found points on the other vessel causing heavy damage but no penetration. The Unity City behind the Alexander Davion also fired into the starboard vessel adding its two Naval Lasers to the Davion’s unfortunately they were not coordinated with the Davion‘s and hit other areas causing more armour damage but noting crippling.
The two Corvettes returned fire with naval autocannons and laser fire however the Alexander Davion had engaged its Screen Launcher defence system and these weapons found their targeting data corrupted unable to find the Alexander Davion. One naval autocannon blast did get through however causing moderate armour damage to the Alexander Davion’s thick armour. At the same time the fighters from both sides engaged as did the DropShips on the Davion’s side. The two corvettes had tightly packed anti-fighter weapons and could cause lots of damage to the fighters however their gunners were showing their inexperience attacking the heavily armed assault DropShips and the Vengeance. One naval autocannon blast caught the Royal Black Watch’s Vengeance in the port side and the Star League’s fighter carrier DropShip vaporised in an instant as the WarShip showed what the smallest of Naval Weapons could do to a DropShip with a direct hit.
“Have the fighters and DropShips regroup with the Unity City†Andrea said knowing the enemy WarShips could eliminate large numbers of them quickly, she might need them later against the enemy destroyers which lacked significant anti-fighter defences. “Helm get us in broadside position.†She said the broadside was the most powerful shot a WarShip had it used three separate arcs of a WarShip’s weapons array to bring truly devastating firepower to bare.
“Which ship?†The head helmsmen asked.
“Both of them, I want to go right between them.â€
“We could get a little toasty in there Admiral.†her executive officer warned from the weapons console engaging one WarShip in a Broadside battle was dangerous engaging two was fool hardy in most circumstances.
“Not as toasty as they are going to get. Helm confirm course, flank speed.†Andrea said watching as the Alexander Davion began moving between the two enemy WarShips, both of them could Broadside the Davion but the Destroyer’s armour could take it, these light corvettes couldn’t that Andrea was sure of they were designed to engage fighters and DropShips in the support of heavier WarShips and were under armoured when it came to battling proper WarShips, a category the Davion-class comfortably fit into.
“Enemy vessels firing.â€
“Deploy screens†Andrea said, they wouldn’t matter much at this range and the executive officer was about to say as much when the weapons console exploded in his face. “Secondary weapons take full control. Medical team to the Command Centre. Helm move it!†She said looking at the Alexander Davion’s damage schematic they had taken two Naval Autocannons, one on each side and two laser blasts on the port side along with dozens of small hits, nothing the damage control teams could not handle.
“In position.â€
“Broadside both sides - Fire!†Andrea said raising from her chair because the vessel was under its own power there was quite a strong gravity in the command centre allowing her to move freely as two medics arrived to take away the injured executive officer. A tech began repairing the console even as they were engaged. He shouldn’t have bothered however as the Alexander Davion’s broadside guns four heavy and assault class Naval Autocannons backed up with conventional rotary autocannons, large pulse lasers and Short Range Missiles opened fire on both sides of the vessel with thunderous and devastating consequences. The port Zechetinu was cut in half by the autocannons as they tore through the vessel’s centre-line destroying crew quarters, bulkheads and the K-F Drive as they went snapping the ship's back. The starboard vessel’s command module was consumed with fire by the assault an Autocannons tore into the forward windows shattering them, the atmosphere was venting from both vessels and life boats were launching. The enemy fighters had not escaped either tagged by the Davion’s gunners as threats the conventional weapons fire had cut all but two of the aircraft apart and they were running, none of them had been prepared for such a devastating assault from one target.
“They’re finished sir†the secondary weapons officer said “no weapons firing from either vessel, escape pods launching and their distress beacons have activated.â€
“Helm move us away, take us to the Stellar Mass near the system’s star, rendezvous with the Unity City, dock our fighters and extend refuelling lines for the Black Watch, looks like they will have to remain in their fighters until we work something out.†She said loosing their carrier DropShip was a problem although she could see she had lost two of her own aerospace fighters however she would never fit the thirty-eight remaining Black Watch Fighters in the Davion and now would have to refuel them on the move, a risky operation also the pilots would be forced to remain with their fighters for long periods not good for morale or crew rest.
“What about the escape pods?†Someone asked.
“Leave them to their friends, they have more than twenty-four hours air, plenty of time.†Andrea said as the Alexander Davion began to move rejoining the Unity City and the fighters of both vessels. “I want a status check on the First Prince then readiness response from all decks.†Andrea said the easy part was over now they had bigger a far bigger fight to survive.
An hour later the three Destroyers, all confirmed as Word of Blake vessels, were moving into range in front of them an entire wing of fighters and four assault DropShips. Sitting in her command chair Fleet Admiral Andrea Petain knew her ship, her crew and her First Prince were not getting out of this alive individually the Alexander Davion could kill any of the enemy targets arranged against them even in its damaged state however against all of them at once one of the enemy ships would score a lucky hit then another and before they knew it the Alexander Davion would die and the Federated Suns would lose its First Prince to an enemy, the first time that had happened since the death of Victor’s uncle, Ian Davion, to the Draconis Combine on Mallory‘s World in 3013 long before any of the Alexander Davion‘s crews birth. “Admiral, the Unity City is breaking formation, they are going straight in! The Black Watch fighters are following them, full throttle they are not coming out of that fast.†The way space combat worked was you built up speed by going one way then had to turn round to slow down, the Unity City had huge engines and was capable of one of the fastest speeds ever recorded by a WarShip but that meant that if the vessel used its full thrust a breaking manoeuvre to stop the ship before it hit something would probably kill the crew.
“Get me Commodore Bey.†She said moments later they were linked “Commodore what are you doing?â€
“Buying you time, there is no way that either of us are winning a straight up fight but if we slow them you can seek refuge in the Stellar Mass.â€
“We cannot hide forever, if you are fighting so are we.†Andrea said the Unity City had forced her hand but she would prefer a straight up fight anyway, the Alexander Davion deserved to go in a blaze of glory instead of being picked to pieces, Andrea was certain that the First Prince would want them to go down fighting as well.
“Negative, we cannot win this fight, get the First Lord clear.†The Unity City’s commander said cutting the link. The Alexander Davion command deck crew were looking at Andrea none of them wanted to die and although all were willing Andrea could understand that if they didn‘t have to die they didn‘t want to, she was the same.
“Get us turned around release the fighters and the DropShips tell them to make a single pass on the enemy picking any targets of opportunity in support of the Unity City then rendezvous with us. All gunners make long range shots that are possible, if they have ammunition use it.†Her crew began to move and soon the Alexander Davion’s fighters and DropShips were joining the battle supporting the Black Watch and the Unity City as the Alexander Davion‘s forward weapons continued to fire in support of the charging Unity City at this range the fire was very inaccurate. The Unity City itself had taken down a dozen fighters on its own and two DropShips but the enemy WarShips were beginning to notice the Unity City didn’t care about fighting them directly. Andrea Petain had realized that when the Unity City began accelerating and for the Blakists it was too late the Unity City charged into the Blakist formatting at nearly five G’s acceleration and ploughed into the first Essex. The kinetic energy alone tore the Destroyer in half while the resulting explosion destroyed both ships and dozens of fighters all around all the Word of Blake WarShips and fighters were forced to turn away to avoid being caught in the debris field allowing Black Watch fighters to cause havoc before they were overwhelmed by the numerically superior Blake units. As the Alexander Davion began to retreat eight of their twenty fighters and the single surviving DropShip, the Claymore rendezvoused with them. Only three heavily damaged Black Watch fighters survived the Wing’s sacrifice. Andrea happily took them aboard treating them like her own crew as the Alexander Davion entered the densely packed Stellar Mass. “Note it in the logs that the Unity City crew died bravely and that they destroyed one of the enemy WarShips before dying themselves they sold their lives for the First Lord.â€
A Stellar Mass was an rare sight outside Star Clusters, it was made up of fragments of malformed or failed solar systems and full of strange gravimetrical waves and thousands lumps of rock some as large as the Alexander Davion. One wrong move and the Destroyer would not survive a collision, then again fighting two enemy WarShips, their Fighters and DropShips would be just as suicidal.
FSS Alexander Davion, Gravity Deck Conference Room
Unnamed System, Stellar Mass Field
Chaos March
12th March 3068
After four days of cat and mouse fighting the Alexander Davion had taken a few more hits and hiding in the Stellar Mass was becoming more and more difficult, the fragments remnants of a destroyed moon during the formation of the system barely large enough to hide the Davion-class vessel. Their last surviving DropShip had been destroyed as had half their remaining fighters leaving them with four operation aircraft. First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had called for a meeting with Andrea and her command staff.
“What options do we have?†Victor asked, he was not a naval officer but he liked to know what was going on around him.
“We could remain here and wait for a friendly WarShip to arrive continuing to use the Stellar Mass as cover.†The ship’s executive officer suggested, it was possible but dangerous and lengthy.
“Too risky boss, we are already getting weird readings from across the ship and micro-meteor hits are causing more and more damage. Its only time until weapons and structure integrity are affected.†The chief engineer reported.
“Could we jump from here?†Victor asked quietly.
“I’m afraid not, sire, the gravity distortions are too high in the mass, we need to get at least a million kilometres clear. Preferably two.†The helmsmen reported, Victor had said that rank did not matter in this meeting he wanted everyone snowballing ideas.
“We need to get clear and fast charge the drive.†Andrea said quietly getting startled looks from around the room.
“Admiral, the K-F Drive has been off-line since we came in here, if we power it up and then immediately charge it…†The chief engineer said his voice trailing off as he looked at Victor “it could have nasty consequences.†He finished looking at the deck no-one wanted to contemplate the demise of the First Prince and his family, including Victor already he had decided that in future he would travel with a minimum of two WarShips when outside the Federated Suns Star League Protocol be damned.
“If we stay I’m just as dead chief.†Victor said quietly Andrea seemed to take this as authorisation.
“We charge out of here full thrust in the opposite direction than what we entered then run like hell. If we have a good lead on them we will charge the drive slowly making sure there are no spikes. If not, it’s been an honour to serve with and know you all.†Andrea said although the meeting went on for another half-hour the decision did not change the Alexander Davion would make a run for it.
Three hours past before they were in position to run what repairs and reloading that could be done were done and the fighters were ready to give what support they could. “Prep engines.†Andrea said quietly seeing Victor Steiner-Davion enter the Command Deck. “Sire?â€
“If you don’t mind I will watch from here.†He said in the background Danai Centrella-Davion and the couple’s two children were disappearing into a conference room.
“Not a problem, give the order and we will be on our way.â€
“To Oblivion and Beyond!†Victor said quoting the ship's motto loud enough so everyone could hear Andrea cut in the ship-wide speakers as well “this crew have preformed beyond the call for duty and when we get home you are all coming to New Avalon, the Federated Suns and the Inner Sphere will know of your duty and your professionalism.†Victor said it was a rarity that naval officers were honoured in the Federated Suns so it would be quite a treat. “Fleet Admiral Petain the order is given.†He said nodding to the Admiral who bowed in response raising with a smile on her face, once again Victor had made her life easier.
“Engines full military thrust. Take us out.†She said turning back to the main displays the Alexander Davion began accelerating quickly reaching three g’s acceleration, the whole crew were dragged down into their seats and onto the deck by the force of the acceleration. The Alexander Davion sped out of the Stellar Mass straight into the teeth of the waiting Blakists. Naval autocannon and capital missiles lashed out from both vessels while the Alexander Davion returned fire with Naval Autocannon, the Davion Block III could dish out a lot of damage but it could also take a beating, standing at the rear of the bridge Victor wondered just how badly the Alexander Davion was going to be pounded. As enemy weapons fire tore into the Davion the destroyer rapidly lost most of its starboard weapons array in the opening barrage “roll us over.†Andrea ordered and the Alexander Davion rolled over presenting the enemy with relatively fresh armour and new weapons. Again Naval autocannons lashed out but this time from the Alexander Davion causing telling damage on the two destroyers but not enough to stop them. A white shark capital missile slammed into the Alexander Davion hitting the first gravity deck near the aft of the craft, although the deck was in standby mode it still exploded as the deck decompressed bleeding away a portion of the ships speed now the enemy ships could stay within range. “Shut down all power to both gravity decks, vent them of atmosphere so we don’t have another breach.†Andrea ordered then hit the communication panel “Engineering we need more power, prepare to bring the K-F online.â€
“Full power available in ten seconds Admiral, K-F online in the green so far.â€
“Good news†she said quietly “Keep us posted chief.†She said looking up at the Holo-tank, the Alexander Davion was beginning to make a lead on the two Blakist Destroyers, which although were well armed and not badly armoured they were very slow. The Davion crossed the million kilometre mark and Andrea activated the comm. just as a pair of capital missiles slammed into the Destroyer’s rear shaking the entire ship. “Engineering! We need that jump engine now.†She said there was no answer, “engineering†again nothing “engineering†nothing “hell†she whispered noticing the ship was beginning to slow as well she could feel gravity on the command deck begin to slip, luckily the rear guns of the Alexander Davion were still keeping the two Blakist Destroyers at a distance.
“Admiral! Radiation surge!†The sensor operator screamed as a surge of radiation appeared behind the Alexander Davion “Another one to port one hundred thousand kilometres, all hands brace!†the sensor operator said again as two more WarShips entered the system, they were so dead.
“IFF?†She asked wondering if they would be friendly, she knew there was little chance of that.
“None.â€
“Damn†she said looking over at Victor “prepare to offer our surrender†Victor looked to the deck then nodded his agreement there was no point in fighting four WarShips especially with no engines and half their guns gone.
“Admiral, the two ships are confirmed as Lola III-class Destroyers, they are moving away from us towards the Blakist vessels!†The sensor operator said unable to contain his excitement.
“IFF! Admiral it’s the Darius and Nelson.†The comm. specialist shouted.
“That’s…†Andrea said looking at Victor Steiner-Davion then they both finished together “the Wolf’s Dragoons!†The two Lola IIIs were fresh and undamaged as they accelerated towards the Blakists destroying the Naga II quickly with a concentrated effort of forward weapons fire, with surprise on their side the Naga II crew had no chance whatsoever of avoiding the fire or surviving the Wolf‘s Dragoons assault. The Blakist force was surprised with the Dragoon’s arrival but they rallied and attacked the Darius with their full fury, with one Blakist DropShip ramming the Destroyer slamming into one of the cargo bay doors to cause heaviest penetration the impact caused several internal explosions on the Dragoon WarShip causing its K-F Core to overload and the destruction of the Dragoon WarShip. With one enemy destroyed most of the remaining Blakist fighters and DropShips all clustered around in a mess of moving metal. The Nelson seeing its sister ship destroyed so savagely moved closer to the remaining Word of Blake WarShip firing a Broadside into the nose of the Destroyer then as it moved into the vessel’s broadside arc rolled over and delivered another broadside into the stunned vessel. Finally as the Word of Blake crew aboard the Destroyer attempted to deal with the heavy damage caused by the attacks the Nelson pivoted on the spot and delivered another strike this time directed to the Word of Blake vessel’s rear area penetrating the engine room causing one of the fusion engines to loose containment and tear the vessel to shreds.
With the Word of Blake forces destroyed or disabled the Nelson then moved alongside the Alexander Davion beginning a joint rescue mission for survivors from the Darius and any downed Dragoon fighter. “Get a comm. laser on them.†Andrea said to the communication specialist who immediately set up a direct comm. frequency with the Dragoon WarShip. General Maeve Wolf appeared on the screen “General, you have my thanks and that of my crew, it was a surprise to see you.â€
“We are sorry we were so slow, the message was slightly garbled. Where is the Unity City?†She asked since that had been the vessel that had sent the call.
“Destroyed by the Blakists.â€
“Then you have my condolences, Victor Steiner-Davion was a worthy leader of the Federated Suns.â€
“My thanks General, but as you can see I still live.†Victor said stepping onto the screen.
“The First Lord not travelling on the First Lord’s vessel†showing mock surprise on her face showing what she thought of the Artemis-class, “who could blame him?†She asked quietly smiling “this is a good day. The loss of the Darius is regretful but your continued survival would have pleased its crew, they knew their duty and finally the Wolf‘s Dragoons have been able to show our WarShips are not all for show that we still hold much of our Clan roots in WarShip combat.†Maeve said proudly over the years since the Wolf’s Dragoons had revealed their true origins and their WarShip fleet many had said the vessels would never be used and that the Dragoons would never be able to use them effectively if they were ever challenged to do so.
“General, whatever the Dragoons want, within reason, is yours. You have saved this ship, its crew and my family. I will not forget this.†Victor said stepping towards the centre of the bridge the crews of both vessels were looking at Victor and Maeve the discussion captivating everyone.
“My thanks First Prince Davion.†Maeve said slightly taken aback by the offer she had expected some C-Bills, technology or equipment but the First Prince’s offer was greatly appreciated, the Dragoons would not forget his offer. “We will collect later, for now can we offer assistance, you appear damaged.â€
“Yes please, General.†Fleet Admiral Petain said looking to Victor who was leaving the command deck disappearing into the conference room which held his family. Twenty minutes later the Dragoons were aboard the WarShip helping bring the Alexander Davion back into a space worthy condition, although it was a temporary measure the destroyer would need months of refit. At the same time General Wolf used the Nelson’s HPG to call for more Federated Suns help. Within an hour the Hanse Davion, Melissa Davion and Intrepid were all in the system. The Melissa Davion taking Victor and his family back to New Avalon and the other two vessels assisting the Dragoons and the Alexander Davion’s surviving crew to make the vessel ship capable of making it to Galax for repairs. The Dragoon’s remaining vessel then returned to Outreach happy with the knowledge that they had secured their alliance with the Federated Suns and the Star League for years to come. Once back on Outreach the crew of the Darius were honoured and laid to rest on the Wall’s of Honour outside Harlech City, although the Dragoons did not have their remains they did have their codex data, a hold-over from their Clan origins, the crew of the WarShip would never be forgotten.
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Hector and Barcella
Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space Clan Homeworlds
1st-9th April 3068
Working on intelligence gathered by Watch Operatives working with the Merchant caste the Nova Cats discover that the Ice Hellions are preparing to move the last of their equipment and supplies to the Nueva Castile in an attempt to launch another assault against the Occupation Zones of the Inner Sphere. Still angry at the loss of their Khan to the Ice Hellions Khan Canin Rosse orders the WarShip Path of Honour, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, to go to the Ice Hellion Capital world Hector and capture what supplies they could from the Ice Hellions.
In the early hours of the 1st April the Path of Honour entered Hector orbit an spied the perfect target the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser Coterie fully loaded with twenty-five DropShips and Cargo preparing to leave Clan Space. Star Commodore Alan Lankenau, the commander of the Path of Glory and a former Snow Raven warrior, decided that this would teach the Ice Hellion’s a lesion they would soon not forget. “Sensor Operations, I want full targeting sensor scans on that vessel, do not hide it just get me the data I need to disable that ship fast.†He said, it was not Clan tradition to attack Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers because they were rare and well armed, despite their transport designation they carried powerful Heavy Naval Particle Projection Cannons in the broadside bays which could cause heavy damage to any WarShip. “Communications, I would like to speak to their skipper.†He said looking at the vessel. Moments later the image of an infuriated female Ice Hellion officer appeared in the Holo-tank.
“What do you think you are doing?â€
“We are initiating a Trial of Possession for the Coterie and all its cargo, possessions and crew including the DropShips attached.†Allan said it was clan custom to be completely honest, which he was being. The Ice Hellion commander’s eyes widened, she had not expected such a move against her vessel, no Potemkin captain ever did.
“We have done you no wrong.â€
“Giving us the innocence routine will not win you any friends. Your Khan killed our Khan and your forces are preparing to strike into the Inner Sphere without Grand Council approval. Also we are Clan, we do not need you to have done us a wrong for a Trial to happen.†Allan said spelling it out, why was it enemy commanders always asked that question? Do you accept this trial or do I destroy your ship for the inconvenience you have cost us?†It was an empty threat really rarely did a Clan destroy another’s WarShip just because of an inconvenience, then again there was always a first time.
“We agree to your trial. We will defend this vessel with three Stars of Aerospace Fighters, I am transmitting you their codex data.†She said “what forces do you wish to bid against them?†Allan reviewed the data on the fighters and the pilots for several moments then pulled together his own bid.
“Two stars of OmniFighters, I am ready to transmit their codex data now.†He said nodding to the communications officer, the data was instantly transmitted to the Coterie’s Bridge. The Ice Hellion commander looked over the data for several moments.
“We agree to this bid. To take place at 22:00 hours (HST - Homeworld Standard Time) just off the Zenith Point of this system.†She said setting the venue then both commanders said in unison “seyla†ending the bidding process and binding the Trial to time.
At 22:00 hours (HST) In a brief but brutal battle the Nova Cat OmniFighters resounded defeated their numerically superior Ice Hellion brethren securing the Coterie its crew and twenty-five thousand civilians/engineers and scientists. On the DropShips there was two full second-line Flurry Clusters of the Ice Hellions which the Nova Cats immediately offered back to the Ice Hellions not wanting the unpredictable troops in any of their Galaxies gaining the Nova Cats another Cluster’s worth of brand-new OmniMechs from the Hector factories in ransom.
Meanwhile on Barcella the Nova Cats capture the rest of the world regaining the territory they abandoned when they left for the Nova Cat’s Den and giving them full control of the world that used to be their overall capital and still served as their primary Homeworlds Base. Many of the Nova Cats in Alpha, Delta and Rho Galaxies call for the Nova Cats to regain all the lost territory in the Homeworlds however Khan Canin Rosse quelled these calls reminding his troops that they have the Nova Cat’s Den to care for and having Barcella is a bonus but little else. Canin then contacts Khan Lynn McKenna of the Diamond Sharks wondering if her Clan would be interested in another Potemkin-class Troop Carrier to add to their collection. Negotiations begin two days later when the Diamond Sharks arrive in the Barcella system to look over the vessel. The Diamond Sharks agree to trade for the Coterie but ask the Nova Cats take the vessel to the Deep Periphery colony of Nouveaux Paris, which is still under Nova Cat control, for the trade Khan Rosse agrees as he is planning on returning to the Nova Cat‘s Den anyway. Canin does note the Diamond Sharks are very, very interested in the Potemkin and don’t even try to hide their interest in securing the vessel privately he wonders what exactly the Diamond Sharks are up to and why they wan the vessel transferred over to them in the Deep Periphery but he leaves this mystery for the Diamond Sharks instead concentrating on fixing the Nova Cats own problems home and away.
Press Conference
Mount Davion, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th April 3068
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen of New Avalon today I bring you sad news. This afternoon at 15:36 NAS (New Avalon Standard Time) Marshal of Armies Jackson Davion was found dead in his Fox’s Den office. Initial reports suggest that this was a death of natural causes with no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.†A News reporter said at the foot of Mount Davion, the loss of such an influential figure in the AFFS was a big loss for the military and for the Federated Suns in general. “First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion wishes to extend his deepest regret to the passing of his uncle to Jackson’s close direct family and to the people of Argyle, the Marshal of Armies homeworld.†There the loss would be felt the heaviest despite his position as Marshal of Armies Jackson also made sure he travelled home to cater for his Ducal duties at least once per month, the Davion’s of Argyle were adored by the local population and Jackson’s death would be felt heavily.
“The First Prince has announced that Marshal Reinhart Steiner commander of the First New Avalon Guards RCT will replace Jackson Davion as the new Marshal of Armies of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.†The reporter continued just as it started to rain, it was a fitting time for it on such a sorrowful occasion. “Minister of the Draconis March Duke Tarncred Sandoval has welcomed the move saying that having a young energetic Marshal of Armies will regenerate the AFFS and bring forward a golden age for the Federated Suns. While George Hasek, the Minister of the Capellan March, has openly opposed the move.†The reporter said it was never easy breaking news of internal rifts inside the Federated Suns but the press corps believed that if they did not break it someone else outside the Federated Suns would do embracing the AFFS from outside weakening morale of the troops and the chain of command, the AFFS and First Prince apparently agreed with them because no-one stopped the reporters filming this news at the foot of Mount Davion less than a kilometre from the High Command. “Baron Hasek believes that the First Prince is attempting to hang onto the FedCom Alliance despite it being long dead and believes that a Federated Suns born national should be the new Marshal of Armies. The First Prince has said that he believes that Reinhart is the most capable man for the job and points out that General of Armies Keane Sortek, nephew of Arden Sortek, has done very well in the Lyran Alliance despite his Federated Suns birth so why should Lyran citizens not find success in the Federated Suns? The Capellan March Minister has remained quiet over this question although it appears there is a diffident rift between the High Command here on New Avalon and the Capellan March Command in New Saso on New Syrtis.†The News reporter said turning to another camera on her left side.
“In other news considering the royal family Danai Centrella-Davion has seen taking Prince Burton Davion around several schools over the last few days. During her last visit to an exclusive school on the New Scotland continent she also had baby Jaylen Davion with her, the baby only born on Outreach following Jamie Wolf’s funeral ceremony, seemed very calm through the calm summer weather New Scotland is currently experiencing.†She said as archive images of Danai and the children in New Scotland was broadcast. “The heir-designate for the throne looked very protective of his mother and sister watching everyone.†She said smiling “already a First Prince in the making it seems†she said “I am Gillian Ford and this was a Federated News Service Bulletin. We will see you in thirty minutes for another update, now back to your show.†She said and the screen faded to black for a moment before returning to the show.
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I like it just confused why 2 copies of the last part???? ???
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I like it just confused why 2 copies of the last part???? ???
Not entirely sure I've deleted it, anyway continuing 3068 with new stuff not a repost ;D
Press Conference
The Castle, Tara
Northwind, Chaos March
1st May 3068
At a press conference in the command centre of the Northwind Highlanders the on Northwind General Maeve Wolf of the Wolf’s Dragoons announces that Colonel Loren Jaffray commander of the Northwind Hussars will be accepting full authority over the Allied Mercenary Command founded by Jamie Wolf to safeguard the Chaos March Worlds from predators. Colonel Jaffray announces that the main trouble maker in the Chaos March has been the Word of Blake and that over the next few days the AMC would join ComStar in their attempts to destroy the Word of Blake once and for all.
Two days later the several Allied Mercenary Command led by the First Kearny Highlanders of the Northwind Highlanders and the Wild Geese regiment hit dozens of strongholds the Word of Blake hold in the Chaos March eliminating roughly two combined divisions during the fighting. The Inner Sphere and the Word of Blake think that is it however the Grim Determination regiment, Burton’s Brigade and Thirteenth Stalking Horse all attack Caph on the 4th eliminating another Blakist Division, this one positively identified as the Twentieth Shadow Division.
Again the Blakists think things are over and that the AMC will limit their operations to the Chaos March however on the 5th their worse nightmare comes true. As three Wolf’s Dragoons WarShip’s, the Athena (Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser), the Mars (Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette) and the Beowulf (Congress Block II-class Frigate) lead around eight regiments worth of AMC troops to Mars after entering the Sol System via a pirate point they were engaged by a squadron of Word of Blake WarShips led by the Blake‘s Sword, a McKenna-class Battleship.
The three Dragoon WarShips were able to knock the lightest of the Word of Blake WarShips aside disabling/destroying a pair of Vincent Mk 39-class Corvettes in their initial volley receiving almost no damage in return making the Word of Blake think twice about a second assault. During the second wave of attacks the Blakists launched a pair of Lola-class Destroyers at the Dragoon WarShips and the ground forces attempting to break out to the planet.
Although the Dragoon WarShips were able to draw enough fire away from the AMC ground troops long enough for most of them to make landfall on the red planet they were soon driven back by the arrival of the Blake’s Sword. The Athena was cut to shreds while attempting cover the retreat of the other Dragoon vessels from the massive Battleship the McKenna’s massed Heavy Naval Particle Projection Cannons proving too much for the Heavy Cruiser’s armour. Not a single member of the Athena’s crew escaped the vessel’s destruction as the vessel‘s K-F Core imploded incinerating everything in, on and around the vessel.
The arrival of three ComGuard WarShips is enough to make the Blake’s Sword retreat from battle, the crew knowing they cannot stand against five WarShips. The AMC are able to land on Terra without the fear of orbital bombardment and begin their efforts to help ComStar liberate the world.
Near Terra Orbit
Sol System, Chaos March
8th May 3068
With the three ComGuard WarShips and the two surviving Wolf’s Dragoons WarShips in orbit there is little worry of Blakist military forces trying to break their hold on Terran orbit amongst the AMC or the ComGuard however that changes within three days of landing on Terra. Three WarShips a single antique Winchester-class Cruiser, a vessel long thought extinct and originally in service of the Taurian Concordat, the Winchester is identified as the Aphrodite which has been missing for centuries after running from the Battle of Taurus during the Reunification War and a pair of equally ancient Lola I-class Destroyers attack the ComGuard/Dragoon blockade around Terra.
The combined force of this vessel and the three Lolas destroy the Mars and the ComStar vessel Avenging Sword, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, are also all destroyed once the ComGuards and the Dragoons are fully engaged proving that although the Word of Blake had many WarShips they were not very good with them. Without any major naval forces left in the Terra system three more Divisions of ComGuards land on Mars two days later to support the AMC and any ComGuard survivors on planet from the first wave pushing the Word of Blake back to their bases.
New Dagda Colony
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
12th May 3068
Again between the Nova Cat’s Den and the world of Randis just one jump from the New Circe colony the Nova Cats colonise New Dagda. Unlike New Circe which is not the perfect environment but a valuable resource the New Dagda colony has perfect environmental conditions just not much more going for it just looking at the world. Its inclusion into the Nova Cats Den does however expand the Nova Cats territory which is exactly what the New Worlds Cluster is tasked to do. Yvonne (Rosse) arrives two days after initial land fall, she is again heavily pregnant and Grayson is again at her side, even at just two years old he is already walking strongly and completely unaided. Yvonne and her aides take full control over the planet and its defensive garrison. Unlike the situation on New Circe no-one challenges Yvonne’s command despite her condition.
Press Studio
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
16th May 3068
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome to another edition of the Avalon Gazette.†Maria Clarkson said looking into the tri-vid camera “today following several comment against his appointment as Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner laid down a challenge to his growing list of detractors. The new Marshal of Armies said that he would stand down if anyone else in the Federated Suns could find someone better suited for the job. Field Marshal George Hasek immediately nominated his father’s cousin Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek a long term veteran of the Syrtis Fusiliers and personal choice of Morgan Hasek-Davion to command the Syrtis Fusiliers brigade.†Maria said pausing for a moment turning to a secondary camera “With the First Prince’s permission Reinhart challenged Nathaniel to a test of strategy pitting his own First New Avalon Guards RCT against any of the Syrtis Fusiliers regiment.†Maria said as a map with the world of Kittery highlighted. “To ensure no-one holds a ‘home-advantage’ the Star League facilities on Kittery will be used for the exercise which will begin in ten days time. We will keep you up to date one the exercise and announce the victor once it is complete with an exclusive interview with the Marshal of Armies whoever he may be.â€
Star League High Command Base
Kittery, Capellan March
Federated Suns
21st May 3068
Before he goes to bed every night Morgan Hasek-Davion drinks a small amount of whiskey, normally a Terran or Old Northwind brand, it is a ritual he has kept up for his entire fighting life as it settles his stomach and allows him to sleep. On the 21st May Morgan has his drink then goes to bed only to experience severe chest pains followed by him being sick several times. Not convinced that the worse is over Morgan calls for base doctors. By the time they arrive Morgan is passed out with a slow heartbeat and shallow breathing. On the way to the medical facility Morgan convulses and has to be resuscitated.
Immediately the Star League Intelligence Command (SLIC) believe he has been poisoned and after tests on his food, drink and what was in his stomach (sick) they discover a slow moving poison in his drink. If he had drank more of the liquid then during the night he would have experienced an unrecoverable heart-attack and death. The SLIC order an immediate investigation and postpone the Federated Suns mock battle for an additional week to ensure they are able to search Kittery more thoroughly. General Archer Christifori takes temporary command of the SLDF’s day-to-day operations to ensure Morgan has some time off and can fully recover.
Sheratan
Capellan March, Federated Suns
23rd May 3068
In response for the assassination attempt against Victor Steiner-Davion and his family two months before the Federated Suns lands the First Aragon Borderers BattleMech Regiment with its support on the world of Sheratan the government of this independent world capitulates to the Federated Suns almost without a shot fired knowing that if they resist they will be removed from power, but if they work with the Federated Suns they might be able to remain in power under a Federated Suns appointed Noble leader.
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Davion women are fertile pups
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Command/Living Quarters Habitat
Titan Shipyards, Titan Orbit
Terra, Chaos March
1st June 3068
As fighting between three Blakist WarShips, including the Colt-class Battle-cruiser Heracles, and four ComStar WarShips erupts outside causing damage to several of the repair yards several ComGuard battle armoured marine squads assault the command facility. The lead team led by Precentor-IV Theta Sarah Chambers was tasked with taking control of the command and control tower on the upper surface of the installation. Sarah’s six troopers had been given this job because they were outfitted with the new Aerie Power Armour system developed by Clan Snow Raven specifically for zero-gravity fighting. ComStar’s 208th Division had secured an entire Divisions worth of the troops from Clan Diamond Shark in a trade agreement that would take years to fully resolve but gave the ComGuard much needed units in a time of war.
Moving steadily forward Sarah stayed to the left of the corridor while her partner Adept-II Theta Colin Samuels stayed to the right. This would allow them both to fire at any target that they encountered in front of them. While the other troopers covered the sides or secured rooms. Holding her Mauser 960 Light Support system, a rare weapon itself, close Sarah moved steadily forward using gentle boosts from her Power Armour’s backpack. Two Blakist unarmed troopers stepped through the door ahead only to be cut down instantly by the lasers of the Mauser rifles. “We don’t stop.†Sarah said quietly, this was the first time the ComGuard had been able to board the station yet more indication that the Blakists were ready to cut and run from Titan but resistance to other teams continued. so far Sarah’s team had gotten lucky.
Rounding another corner they were hit with a heavy machine gun which tore into Colin’s suit killing him as multiple bullets entered his body “back!†She called the five remaining troopers darted back behind as the machine gun tore up the bulkheads behind where they had been standing.
“Don’t these idiots know that they could cause a blow out using that thing on the station?†Acolyte Elizabeth Whiting asked glancing around the corner drawing yet more weapons fire.
“Magnetise to the deck everyone.†Sarah ordered the five remaining troopers anchored themselves to the deck just as the damage done to the bulkhead caused the entire wall to give way causing an explosive decompression. The unamoured Blakist marines were picked up by the sudden and rapid expulsion of air and all three men were sucked out of the station as the entire corridor section decompressed, two civilians who had been in a side room were also sucked out of their room and into space dying slow deaths as their bodies were starved of oxygen. Generally machine guns and fragmentation grenades were the last thing people used on space stations and WarShips because they could do exactly what had just happened a breach of the outer hull and bye-bye go the troopers and any atmosphere in the area of the decompression. Sarah’s people were fine encased in their power armour they still had eighteen hours worth of air left in their tanks. “This is Group Xi we have a decompression in section 22 Alpha I, II and III.†She said into her communicator so the unamoured teams would know to avoid this area, then she turned back to her troopers “we move out, Becker you are up front with me, we don’t stop.†She said repeating her previous order as the moved. Precentor Allan Beresick, commander of the ComGuard navy aboard the battered Invisible Truth fighting outside had told her and everyone else that they do not stop until they reach the control room of the main facility and lock down the living quarters and the entire population of the Titan Shipyards.
Rounding another corner they passed through an airlock area and were back within a pressurised area of the station, a massive explosion outside from one of the repair facilities exploding from stray weapons fire rocked the station as pieces of wreckage hit everything in the area. Sarah’s troopers stopped moving forwards anchoring themselves to the deck again just in-case there was another decompression. There was none and they moved forward nearing the final bulkhead door and the command complex standing outside the doors were two Purifier Battle Armour suits their mimic armour making them almost impossible to see as it constantly changed to suit the background. Another team of ComGuard Marines was fighting them and Sarah’s team could do nothing but watch as the two Purifiers killed all eight unamoured ComGuard Marines as they closed. With the marines lying dying or dead the Purifiers turned and fired their support lasers down the corridor at Sarah’s team hitting Acolyte Benton killing him instantly dropping the ComGuard number to four.
“We‘re dead.†Elizabeth said the Purifiers could hold them all day their lasers would be fully charged and a decompression would not affect them.
“Maybe no, we don’t stop†Sarah said “ideas?†She asked, Sarah had never been a great thinker, she was good at leading men and women in battle but not the best strategist. If they couldn’t think of anything it would be a ‘forlorn hope’ charge down the corridor to their deaths.
“I have an idea.â€
“Speak up Becker.†Sarah said Becker did not speak he just tapped the underside of his Mauser rifle, the grenade launcher.
“You’re nuts, you forget what happened to the other folk that used something not suited to a marine mission?†Elizabeth said firing her own Mauser down the corridor spraying both Purifiers with several shots hitting each suit doing negligible damage.
“I haven’t forgotten actually it gave me the idea. Look if we all fire our grenades down there then that will cause a concussion blast when they explode the Purifiers will get knocked around by the blast but not destroyed. We charge down there and hit them with as much pulse blasts as possible. In this environment we are faster and more agile than them.â€
“What if we cause a hull breach? We could take out the command deck as well.â€
“That’s a bonus for us, I’m guessing there is at least one team heading for Auxiliary Fire Control to take control of the weapons and another group heading for Secondary Damage Control to lock down the population just in-case we fail to make it to the command deck. If we cause a hull breach we kill the command deck crew and maybe stop the station’s guns for a minute or two buying our people outside another minute or so before the secondary systems kick in. I’d say it’s a win, win situation for us.†Becker said, his argument was valid and Sarah nodded then realised her suit would have completely masked her movement.
“Let’s do it.†She said the four troopers lined up each would fire their jump jets for three seconds pushing them into the corridor quick enough to hit the opposite side of the corridor, in that time they would use to fire their shots. “Aim for the troopers and pray.†She said quietly so quiet she was unsure if anyone else heard her “okay go, go, go!†She said Becker was first firing while he was half way gone then Elizabeth, Corwin and finally Sarah all four hit the opposite wall seconds apart “Magnetise!†Sarah shouted slamming the button activating her own boots magnets the entire suit was pulled to the deck getting her out of the way of the Purifier’s weapons fire. The four grenades flew down the corridor in the blink of an eye with no gravity to slow them they would hit at ballistic force. The first shot hit one of the Purifiers right on the head killing the trooper in the suit instantly as his head was pulped by the concussion blast. The second trooper was hit by the explosive force of three grenades exploding at once causing heavy internal injuries as his body was hit by so many opposite forces. “Go, go, go!†Sarah shouted again rousing her troopers once more charging down the corridor with a full jump jet blast. At the end of the corridor they all fired constant blasts into the trooper making sure his suffering was short. “Status!â€
“Full atmospheres†Becker said triumphantly, there had been no breach, they had gotten lucky.
“Cutting team get to work.†Corwin and Elizabeth pulled cutting torches from their backpacks and got to work within minutes the doors were down and they were all charging into the command deck. The command personnel of the station put up no resistance closing down the weapons systems and the personnel quarters. One of the Blakist crewmen did however activate a virus program that wiped the station’s targeting information and power reserves, the station would be useless in this fight. “Truth, Team Xi, Stronghold secure.†Sarah transmitted reporting their success to the Invisible Truth less than a thousand kilometres away just then the mighty Cameron-class Battle-cruiser, that had led the Star League to victory around Huntress during Operation Serpent, exploded as it attempted to block the retreat of the Heracles and was targeted by a dozen Blakist DropShips. The Heracles was heavily damaged but still was still under power and running for Terra or Mars unwilling to continue to fight here. The Truth exploded in half a dozen places, one being the command and control bridge windows exploding outwards venting the atmosphere killing the command crew. Moments later the Battle-cruisers Capital Missile and Autocannon magazines exploded spreading wreckage from the vessel throughout the area. Securing the Shipyards was a real hollow victory, then again every one against the Blakists was.
The other Blakist WarShips were on-fire as was one of the other ComStar vessels and all were disengaging each other pulling back out of weapons range, ComStar‘s vessels maintaining a defensive curtain near the Shipyards as best they could. This battle had cost the ComGuard far more than it had cost the Word of Blake, at least in the short term, and the Titan shipyards would be out of commission for at least a year but they were out of Word of Blake hands and in their repair bays were at least a dozen WarShips that could possibly be repaired and returned to service after all this was over.
Steiner Royal Palace
Tharkad City, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
8th June 3068
For the first time in years the Lyran Alliance has something to celebrate, the Wolves and Jade Falcons are quiet, Skye is under control, the Free Worlds League border is secure and on Tharkad under the supervision of some of the Lyran Alliance’s most capable doctors and nurses Isis Steiner gives birth to Jessica Steiner, the first child of Isis and Peter Steiner-Davion and the heir to the Lyran Alliance throne. Throughout the Lyran Alliance including the embattled Clan border and the rebellious Skye region there are celebrations and street parties as the entire nation enjoys welcoming the first of a new generation of Steiner.
Just hours later in the early hours of the 9th June Duchess Hermonie Aten gives birth to a daughter as well named Ilse Kelswa-Aten by her parents after Hermonie’s assassinated elder sister Ilse will continue the Aten and Kelswa names and be the next leader of the Skye province. Ilse birth so close to Jessica’s also ensures that the Skye Province will have an heir every bit the equal of the next leader of the Lyran Alliance.
MRBC Offices, Galatea
Skye Province, Lyran Alliance
12th-18th June 3068
On the 12th a few small mercenary units cause trouble on Galatea near the new Headquarters of the MRBC. The Lone Wolves Regiment step up holding back the hoards defending the MRBC offices and Galatean City with the local militia the best they can until the 18th when all three regiments of Dismal Disinherited land on the planet. Dismal Disinherited a founding member of the AMC along with the Wolf’s Dragoons and the Northwind Highlanders immediately go to work destroying every single one of the renegade Mech units amongst the dead are Sathen’s Snipers, a two battalion mercenary unit with known Word of Blake affiliations, Deliah’s Gauntlet, a battalion sized unit that is commanded by a member of the discredited religion the One Star Faith, Carson’s Renegades, another Word of Blake affiliated battalion sized unit and Jacob’s Juggernauts a company sized unit. All these forces have extensive access to advanced technologies from around the Inner Sphere and technology unique to ComStar or the Word of Blake. The attack against the MRBC is seen as a protest by the Word of Blake of the AMC’s involvement in the Battle of Terra. During the fighting the Lone Wolves and the Second Dismal Disinherited are both decimated with both units survivors accepted into the surviving Disinherited units.
Because the MRBC are responsible for mercenary commands the Lyran Alliance charge all the damage done to Galatean City to the MRBC’s accounts. The AMC’s founding members pitch in considerable capital to cover the losses but the MRBC does take a major hit by the charges. The Dismal Disinherited stay on the world attempting to rebuild their second regiment and secure Galatea from further attacks. Another Northwind Highlander Regiment joins other AMC units on Mars in the Terran system showing the AMC’s dedication to eradicating the Word of Blake and its influences.
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Star League Training Ranges
Kittery, Star League High Command Base
Capellan March, Federated Suns
23rd June 3068
Although the beginning of the exercise between the First New Avalon Guards RCT and the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT had been delayed until the 5th June by the 23rd June the two units have beaten each other up in simulated battle after simulated battle and Reinhart Steiner’s forces are far ahead the Syrtis Fusiliers Nathaniel Hasek calls for an end of the exercise and for Reinhart to be declared again as Marshal of Armies and for the argument to be closed.
To show there is no hard feelings Reinhart immediately orders the two RCTs to load up into DropShips along with the First Kittery Borderers and the Kittery Training Battalion. Then supported by the Avalon-class Cruiser FSS Lucian Davion all four units launch a surprise invasion of Ares just two jumps away in the Capellan Confederation. The Defending Capellan Regiment the Fifth McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry, also known as Carson’s Cavaliers, are totally outnumbered by one RCT let alone two supported by another independent Regiment. However instead of launching a full no holds bared attack on the Regiment Reinhart orders his troops to occupy the undefended cities and towns on the planet then contacts Sang-shao Lord Richard Carson the commander of the Fourth and offers him a way out a stand-up fight for possession of the planet, much like those conducted by the Clans, if the Federated Suns win Richard will surrender himself to the Federated Suns but his unit will leave. If the Fourth win the Fourth will be allowed with Richard still commanding. Richard angrily refuses to comply holding tightly to the capital city refusing to surrender the city to House Davion knowing that if he was to return to Sian after surrendering the world with little fight that the Chancellor would kill him.
Despite calls from the Syrtis Fusiliers and the Kittery Borderers to launch an all out attack Reinhart will not launch a full offensive against a city, that could only lead to mass destruction and murder so they wait in a tense stand off, the Capellans hoping for reinforcements and the Federated Suns waiting for Carson to break. Following two nights of the stand-off and over a dozen skirmishes the situation is getting desperate for the Armoured Cavalry. Sitting over his private command table Lord Richard Carson looked at the deployment of the Davion troops. The obvious weak spot was the Kittery Borderers and their Training Battalion none had been in a real battle since the Fourth Succession War. If the Cavalry could break through them the Davions would think twice about attacking them.
Sao-shao Faith McCarron walked into the room, Faith was a member of the family that had founded the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry and one of the most capable young commanders of the entire Capellan Confederation Armed Forces and was in line for Richard‘s job when she gained enough experience. Experience was something she was gaining daily recently she had tracked down a terrorist band who had tried to destroy one of the Confederation’s WarShips and been rewarded a Battalion command for her efforts. “Good to see you Sao-shao, I hear you gave the Davions a right thrashing out on the sixth marker this morning?†He said smiling broadly her, Faith like most of the members of the Big Mac was not a Capellan by birth she was white Caucasian and like most successful MechWarriors shorter than average, well muscled and always alert. She had been born in the Federated Suns during one of the Armoured Cavalry’s Mercenary contracts her long blonde hair had put her at odds with the Capellans several times but like any McCarron she kept coming back, this morning her Battalion had eliminated a Battalion of enemy Vehicles and some Mechs belonging to the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT, a very good performance they would need several more of those to confirm success and survival. Hopefully the Chancellor would send a couple of his precious Warrior Houses to assist them soon, perhaps a WarShip as well to drive off the accursed Avalon in high orbit. Although Richard did not expect Orbital Bombardment the Davion’s WarShip was in a perfect position for one and from the stats he‘d seen on the Avalon-class he knew it was more than capable.
“We got lucky, my lord†she said softly her hands behind her back as she stood at attention.
“Faith, you do not need to use my title when we are alone and there are no Capellans about, this is still the Big Mac. And we both know it wasn‘t luck.†He said smiling, he was still a mercenary at heart.
“Very good Richard, allow me to cut straight to the point?†He nodded “you need to surrender yourself to the Davions and allow the Regiment to get off planet.†She said bluntly, she was a mercenary at heart as well and every mercenary knew the only way for a unit to survive as to know what battles could be won and which had to be surrendered, this was one fight that even the Big Mac could not win. Richard looked at her dumbstruck by her words.
“And if I refuse?â€
“Then you will be eliminated and I will surrender in your place.â€
“You can’t you are a member of the McCarron family, the Chancellor would never forgive the Armoured Cavalry for the betrayal. And to loose Ares without a fight this world has too much history to be abandoned.†He said referring to the famous Ares Conventions that had been signed on this very world centuries before conventions that limited the use of weapons of mass destruction and cleared up what the legitimate targets of war were.
“The first rule of the Big Mac is survival, the rest falls into place. Surely you remember that, or has your Capellan Lord-hood gone straight to your head?†She asked Richard was again taken for words and as he finally found what to say he opened his mouth only for Faith to draw her arms from her back revealing a long curved sabre. With a single spinning motion Faith removed Richard Carson’s head killing him in an instant. “I’m sorry Richard.†She said placing the bloodied sword on the table as Richard’s lifeless decapitated body fell to the floor. She pressed the transmit button on the desk. “This is Shao-shao Faith McCarron calling the Davion commander, we need to talk. Richard Carson is no longer in command of the Fourth McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry, I am.†She said not even looking at the body on the floor, she had done this to save her people nothing more, nothing less.
“This is Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner, meet me ten kilometres north of my base in one hour, you may take one lance worth of guards. Any duplicity I will order both my RCTs to launch a full offensive and for the orbiting WarShip to destroy any DropShip not flying the Davion flag, your unit will be hunted to it’s death.†The German accented voice said, a Steiner was here! And he was the Davion’s new Marshal of Armies! No wonder they had been caught so flatfooted. The Capellans feared the Davion war machine but Faith often thought it was the Steiner blood mixed in that had given the Davions the extra edge they had needed for the victories of the Fourth Succession War, she also knew Reinhart Steiner’s record, a Clan war veteran, and wasn’t surprised he had beaten Richard Carson or any of the Big Mac officer corps on Ares.
“Agreed†she said looking once more at Richard’s body she bowed once to the body her eyes closed in a silent apology to the dead Lord then turned and left the room. Faith rounded up the other three Mech Battalion commanders and told them of her actions and her plan, all protested however she was resolute, she would sentence the men to a death or not destroy the Fourth McCarron’s by fighting against two front-line Davion RCTs supported by an extra regiment and a WarShip, some battles you walked away from.
An hour later with the other three Battalion commanders supporting her Faith walked her gold and green Men Shen OmniMech, a present from the Chancellor himself, to the rendezvous point. About five minutes later the four Mechs from the First New Avalon Guards RCT arrived led by a Warhawk, commonly known as a Masakari to Inner Sphere troops, the eighty-five ton Clan OmniMech was still painted in the blue-and-white with silver piping of the Lyran Guards a silent reminder of the Mech’s and the pilot’s origin. On the Mech’s left leg was the Federated Sun sword-and-sunburst with a ’1’ underneath. Faith had seen videos of the Clan War, some that possibly featured even this Mech, the Warhawk was one of the deadliest Mechs ever fielded and it alone could probably destroy the four Mechs she had taken. Beside it was a Templar OmniMech and a pair of Stealth OmniMechs, both home-grown Federated Suns OmniMech designs it was a show of strength the Capellan Confederation could never hope to match.
“I am glad to see you never tried anything silly.†Reinhart said there was no gloating or malice in his voice just a genuine sounding pleasure that they would not have to fight here and now. Faith was more than a little pleased that she hadn’t listened to the other Battalion commanders who called for a full assault against Reinhart, to kill the Marshal of Armies and then try to bog down the Davions long enough for more Capellans to arrive. “Are you willing to meet my terms?†He asked obviously referring to his Trial-like fight for the world.
“Negative.†Faith said plainly, there would be no fighting, the Fourth could never hope to prevail against the forces both RCTs and the Kittery Regiment but she would not allow him to dictate all the terms, she still had a little strength and dignity within her.
“Then I do not understand why did you call for this meeting?†Reinhart said Faith was surprised that she heard no anger in his voice he was not meeting her expectations of the rabid Davion war fighter she had been told about all her life then remembered he was a Steiner, a completely different animal.
“Here is the deal. I will surrender to you Marshal of Armies Steiner, personally. You will allow my Regiment to leave this world unmolested. The Federated Suns will retain control over Ares, until the Capellan Confederation return and capture this world.†She said confident that the Capellans would return to the world eventually.
“You understand there is no guarantee that you will be ransomed back to the Capellan Confederation?†Reinhart asked it was common practice for a member of an important member of a major family to be ransomed back for other prisoners or technology to their home realm.
“I killed a Capellan Lord to save my Regiment and sacrifice a Capellan World. I do not think the Capellan people will want me back. I surrender myself to you, do you accept?†She asked there was a long silence before Reinhart answered.
“I accept your surrender the Fourth McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry are allowed to return to their JumpShips which are at the Nadir point unharmed. They will not be harmed and neither will you unless you attempt to harm me or anyone else under my command.â€
“I understand.†She said quietly “I agree to your terms.†She said throttling forward her Men Shen’s speed the two Stealths took up escort positions as she walked towards the Davion holdings.
“And I yours.†Reinhart said watching the Mech walk past his Warhawk “Fourth McCarron’s you have one hour to depart. Any further hostilities will be dealt with quickly and harshly.†Reinhart said turning walking away he noticed Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek move his Templar behind Reinhart covering the Marshal of Armies weaker rear armour with his own Mech, the McCarron’s troops did nothing to interfere.
Back at the base Reinhart and Nathaniel arrived several minutes behind Faith and her escort and they found a mob scene surrounding Faith and the two Stealth MechWarriors none were fully dressed, Faith herself was almost completely naked wearing underwear and shorts, she had kept her coolant suit on covering up more but with the liquid drained from it the suit was very see through. Even from his Warhawk cockpit Reinhart could hear names being shouted at her and the two defending Stealth pilots being told to get out of the way. From their uniforms Reinhart could tell they were Syrtis troopers almost all infantry troops. Leaning down to his weapons control console he activated his Warhawk’s weapons display and opened fire with the paired Clan-built Large Pulse Lasers mounted in the left arm the air above the troopers was filled with pulse blasts followed by the rear wall exploding outwards. The shouting stopped and all eyes fell on the Warhawk however it was Nathaniel Hasek who stepped forward first he had dismounted from his Mech and made his way into the middle of the crowd climbing atop an APC. “Do you call yourselves honourable men? Honourable men of the Capellan March of the Federated Suns?†He asked shouting over the noise of the men. A resounding “yes sir!†came from the crowd “then I am ashamed to have you as my men and as soon as we return home ever single one of you will be reassigned to a militia unit.†He said looking at the faces around him their faces went from shock to anger to ashamed looks in less than thirty seconds. “You should all look at yourselves, we just won a victory without risking our lives. We have secured the world of Ares a major world in the Capellan’s war machine and you are interested instead of bothering a young woman who sacrificed her own freedom to save her men. Not only that you were willing to beat up two of your own fellow MechWarriors to get to her.â€
“They’re Lyran scum! Why the hell should we care this is a great victory? For us, for the Capellan March and George Hasek!†One shouted naming the man they were all fanatically loyal to, even more loyal than to Victor or the Federated Suns. The mob around him cheered the call.
“Your views have been noted and you are all under arrest. Marshal of Armies Steiner, if you will please take these bastards out of my sight.†Nathaniel said turning to Reinhart condemning his own men stepping down from the APC and walking away. Reinhart was standing with his two MechWarriors protecting Faith who now had a jumpsuit on which Reinhart had taken from his Mech. All around them were more than fifty Battle Armour troopers of the First New Avalon Guards RCT every single member of the crowd was arrested a total of sixty-two men and women Reinhart offered to hold them for a few days then release them back to the Fifth once they had calmed down, however, Nathaniel refused condemning his men to military court and dishonourable discharge. Nathaniel pointed out that the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns prided itself as being the most professional army in the Inner Sphere, these men were not showing this. Although it was possible some may end up in militia units none would ever serve in a premier Federated Suns unit.
Once the Sixth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT had arrived to take over garrison the First New Avalon Guards RCT also left returning to New Avalon with their new prisoner in tow under the personnel supervision of Reinhart Steiner against the wishes of most of the High Command and even a suggestion against this arrangement by First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion. Reinhart said he had accepted Faith’s parole that by her honour she would do no harm to the Federated Suns while a prisoner. The High Command had directed that Faith would not be allowed in the Fox’s Den or Royal Palace under any circumstances and that she would be accompanied by a guard when not with Reinhart, an arrangement the Marshal of Armies and Faith McCarron found suitable.
Zenith Point, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
1st July 3068
The Lyran Alliance military move to near full alert when an unknown WarShip is detected jumping into the Tharkad system. Scrambling three WarShips to meet the new contact they worry that the Clans have returned however they soon find their concern is unwarranted when the FSS Peter Steiner-Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser from the Federated Suns, arrives painted in Lyran Alliance colours. The crew announce that they are all Lyran born citizens and that the Federated Suns has presented the Lyran Alliance with this vessel and crew as a sign of friendship and as a present to celebrate the birth of Jessica Steiner.
Archon Peter Steiner-Davion accepts the gift gladly bolstering his small navy with another capable WarShip and crew. Over the next few days the Lyran Alliance and Federated Suns reopen several of the links they shared during the Federated Commonwealth Alliance, although neither sign a formal alliance, the two brothers leading their respected realms know that cooperation is key to their survival and to their nations prospering. In the Federated Suns Capellan March Minister Field Marshal George Hasek makes it known he is not amused that a vessel built by Capellan March people has been so easily given to another realm without anything in return however the story does not get much circulation as the news agencies and the people of the Federated Suns believe in the friendship being created by the two sides of the former-Federated Commonwealth.
In response to his complaints being ignored George takes matters into his own hands using mercenary troops within to Capellan March to invaded Epsilon Indi and Epsilon Eridani destroying a Blakist Division and the Langendorf Lancers a small mercenary unit under the employ of the planetary government on Epsilon Indi. On Epsilon Eridani Federated Suns mercenaries eliminate local militia forces and Bronson‘s Horde, a mercenary Battalion based on the world under Word of Blake contract. The Lone Star Regiment and Redfield’s Renegades who are both based on Epsilon Eridani offer no resistance retreating from the world without a single word in complaint, both know better than to argue with a Succession Lord‘s forces. Epsilon Eridani has been the one stable world of the Chaos March outside Outreach and Northwind. To recognise this fact Victor Steiner-Davion overrules Field Marshal Hasek and orders that Duke Pierre Benton be given a degree of leeway in how Epsilon Eridani is run and that both Nadir and Zenith Jump Point Stations are fully refurbished, the plan being to keep Epsilon Eridani as an open world of trade. Although some believe the Federated Suns claim to openness cannot last and that soon their businesses will be strangled under the Federated Suns bureaucracy Duke Benton is able to convince them to stay and adopt a wait-and-see approach with their new Landlords. To cater for the increased immigrants and foreign nationals who will have access to the Federated Suns via Epsilon Eridani the DMI and MIIO Divisions both place units on the world keeping an eye on potential trouble from other States and hostile forces.
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New Home, Bryant and Keid
Chaos March, Inner Sphere
2nd-3rd July 3068
Following the Federated Suns actions in taking Epsilon Indi and Epsilon Eridani and out of anger at the loss of Ares and Faith McCarron to the Federated Suns Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao authorises the censure of Bryant, New Home and Keid in the Chaos March. On all three worlds local resistance is destroyed by the Capellan troops deployed there this includes the Mercenary forces: Burr’s Black Cobras Battalion on Bryant, Clifton’s Rangers Battalion and Hannibal’s Hermits on Keid and Blanc’s Coyotes Regiment on New Home. The Capellans leave very little survivors from any of the units and imprison any survivors in local prisons. Sun-Tzu Liao also declares Liberty, another Chaos March world, is an independent Barony of the Capellan Confederation but does not land on the world because of the presence of the Third Dismal Disinherited a regiment in the service of the AMC on the world, the last thing the Capellans want is to bring down the ire of the Allied Mercenary Command and some of the most elite Mercenaries in the Inner Sphere.
Morgan’s Holdfast
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
4th-16th July 3068
In the early morning of the 4th July 3068 three Clan Cloud Cobra WarShips enter the Morgan’s Holdfast system and move to engage the two defending Nova Cat WarShips while an entire Galaxy burn towards the inhabited planet of the system. First contact is made at the Zenith point where a battle erupts between the Cloud Cobra attackers: Nebulous, a York-class Destroyer Carrier, the Perdition’s Faith, a Fredasa-class Corvette and the Cataclysm, a Lola III-class Destroyer, and the Nova Cat defenders: the Promise, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser and the Spirit Vision, a Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette.
With the Nova Cats superior at the art of Naval Combat and the Cloud Cobras but the Cloud Cobras with superior numbers the battle continued for several hours with the destruction of the Perdition’s Faith and Cataclysm to the Promise’s heavy array of Naval Autocannons and Capital Missiles. The Cloud Cobra’s heavier fighter screen destroy the Spirit Vision and a final broadside from the Nebulous kills the Promise leaving the Cloud Cobra’s in control of the system’s jump points with a heavily damaged but operational Nebulous.
On their burn in system the Cloud Cobra ground troops destroyed the Nova Cat Carrack Merchant-class vessel Faithful Rite. The merchant vessel had been carrying a Cluster of Nova Cat ground vehicles, the 115th Garrison Cluster of Kappa Provisional Galaxy to the planet to reinforce the current garrison as part of regular Nova Cat troop movements. The Merchant vessel’s light armaments are no threat to the Cloud Cobra’s multiple DropShips and Fighters and is quickly overpowered. Three days later on the seventh these same DropShips land around the colony on Morgan‘s Holdfast facing off against the remaining three clusters of Kappa Galaxy. The Nova Cats soon identify the troops as members of Clan Cloud Cobra’s Gamma Galaxy, a front-line unit, knowing they cannot hold against such troops for long the Nova Cat commander Galaxy Commander Gwen Winters calls for aide from New Barcella.
Two days after the landing of the Cloud Cobras and with the Eighteenth Garrison Cluster of Kappa Galaxy ambushed and destroyed on the outskirts of Morgan’s Holdfast’s only city. At almost the same time the Severn Leroux jumps into the system just outside the planet’s orbit dropping two Clusters of Xi Galaxy under the command of saKhan Jal Steiner. The Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser then makes an inter-system jump to the Nadir point intercepting the Nebulous which is recharging its jump engines and its crew is attempting to repair some of its battle damage. With the Severn Leroux still carrying two Titan-class DropShips and two Carrier-class DropShips giving the Battle-cruiser a total of one hundred-and-thirty OmniFighters which easily overpower the fighters and DropShips and disable the damaged Nebulous allowing Battle Armoured Elemental Marines from the Severn Leroux to board and capture the vessel, aboard the Nebulous the Nova Cats find that a large percentage of the crew were killed when fighting the Promise and the survivors are not ready for any kind of resistance. Engineers and more crew from the Severn Leroux are shuttled over and the Nebulous is claimed as Isorla by the Nova Cat crew.
On Morgan’s Holdfast Jal Steiner and the warriors of Xi and Kappa Galaxy eliminates two of the three clusters of Cloud Cobra warriors at the cost of Xi Galaxy’s Second Nova Cat Jaegers Cluster. With his forces surrounding the remaining battered Cloud Cobras saKhan Jal Steiner contacts the Cloud Cobra’s most senior surviving warrior, Star Colonel Penelope Steiner. SaKhan Steiner offers the remaining Cloud Cobras bondsmen status in Xi Galaxy for their continued survival and the end of fighting on Morgan’s Holdfast. The Cloud Cobras agree after several minutes of internal discussions and the Cloud Cobra warriors become Nova Cat Bondsmen. Eventually saKhan Steiner forms the Rossei Cluster around these troops because many, like himself, are members of the Cloud Cobra’s religious order the Rossei Cloister which has a similar belief system to the Nova Cat‘s belief in visions. As his final act before leaving Morgan’s Holdfast Jal Steiner renames the system Rossei’s Triumph to show that the unity of the Rossei is what stopped the fighting, several of the Nova Cat born warriors in Xi Galaxy are unsure about his reasoning however agree that the new name is better than the old one. This begins a general discussion within the Nova Cats that the rest of the former Tortuga Dominions worlds should be renamed putting the state’s origins behind it as the Nova Cats take it into the future.
Nadir Point
Melissa System
Melissa Theatre, Lyran Alliance
17th July 3068
The newly assigned to the border the SLS Shining Claw is undergoing shakedown trials since its upgrading to House Davion’s Block-II configuration of the Congress-class. The vessel jumps into the Melissa system to check on the Star League Defence Force Units stationed there only to discover a Clan Ice Hellion Carrack-class Transport known as the Maker. The vessel’s Jump Drive is offline as are several main systems including sensors so the vessel has no idea the Shining Claw is so close.
The Shining Claw’s skipper Fleet Admiral David Natale hatches a plan to capture the vessel and orders his four Assault DropShips to shuttle over the Shining Claw’s newest addition the First Battle Armour Marine Battalion who are undergoing training as Battle Armour Marines using Aerie Power Armour suits bought from Clan Diamond Shark. Once in position the two hundred-and fifty-six Battle Armour troopers assigned to the Battalion storm the Maker at several points throughout the vessel and detonate small explosives on certain areas of the vessel confusing the crew and quickly subduing the crew and the small force of unamoured security Elementals on board.
Following interrogations of the crew it becomes apparent the Maker is the Ice Hellion’s vanguard for another attack on the Clan Occupation Zone and is tasked with spying on several of the Jade Falcon worlds ready for Invasion. The Maker’s engine was showing signs of trouble so they came here for repairs as it showed Melissa had a low amount of traffic using the system. The crew agree to become Star League crewmen and although Fleet Admiral Natale assigns an entire platoon of battle armour, one of his assault DropShips and several of his own officers to the vessel he decides to trust the crew’s word and sends them to Dieron Shipyards for refit to make the Carrack-class a more effective modern day WarShip. The extra Ice Hellion DropShip is sent to Melissa with its crew and cargo of fifteen OmniMechs assigned to 1894th Light Horse Brigade of the reborn Star League Defence Force based on Melissa.
Clan Occupation Zones
Inner Sphere
21st July - 3rd August 3068
Following the loss of the Maker to the SLDF full of desperately needed supplies and from the Neuva Castile the remains of Clan Ice Hellion, three Galaxies of Ground troops and four WarShips make an attempt to invade the Clan Occupation Zone striking at the Jade Falcon OZ almost exclusively. With such little resources the Ice Hellions leave their civilian castes in the Neuva Castile with a single cluster worth of troops protecting them.
Unfortunately for the Hellions in the first hour of the invasion the Taney, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, is pounded into nothing in the Erewhon by the Jade Falcon’s Frost Falcon, another Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser. To make things worse newly elevated Khan Conner Rood is killed on the planet by a heavy Jade Falcon force. Alpha Galaxy, the only front-line force in the Ice Hellion Touman remaining operational is wiped out to the man the Jade Falcons refuse to accept a single bondsmen from the battle but do salvage nearly two clusters worth of equipment and several DropShips.
Following this heavy defeat, and without leadership, the remaining troops of Zeta and Zeta Prime Galaxies, disliked elements of the Ice Hellion Touman along with the remaining WarShips Impaler and Radiant, both Lola III-class Destroyers, and Cage‘s Pride, a McKenna-class Battleship, choose to abandon their Clan and become members of the Dark Caste disappearing into the Inner Sphere and Periphery joining the ranks of pirate and mercenary bands. The two Lola III-class Destroyers are never seen again disappearing into the Periphery while the Cage’s Pride made a run for Terra straight into Clan Wolf claimed territory fighting several small skirmishes with the Wolves costing them several JumpShips and DropShips.
The Cage’s Pride is finally cornered in the Kandis system of the Wolf OZ just one jump from the Occupation Zone capital Tamar. In the Kandis system the Cage’s Pride meets the Wolf WarShips Jerome Winson, the newly refitted Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, and the Rogue, a Congress-class Frigate. There is no standard batchall Cage’s Pride immediately engages the two Clan vessels successfully crippling then destroying the Rogue with three well placed salvos this allows the Jerome Winson to manoeuvre closer and deliver several telling blows alone the starboard side then to deploy an entire Cluster of Battle Armour. As the Jerome Winson’s large fighter screen and superior anti-fighter weaponry cut down the remaining Ice Hellion fighters and DropShips around the two mighty WarShips while inside the Cage’s Pride the Wolf Elementals are able to reach the McKenna’s command centre and force the vessel’s commander to surrender the battle and the Cage’s Pride to Clan Wolf.
Three days, following interrogations of the surviving Ice Hellion crew, via an HPG Grand Council meeting Khan Ward calls for the remains of Clan Ice Hellion to be abjured from Clan space and to be classed as outcastes. The vote is nearly unanimous and Clan Ice Hellion is no more. Clan Stone Rhino seize most of Hector and the last Cluster of Ice Hellions still in Clan space before the other Clans can act however the Ice Hellion’s destruction sets off dozens of trials throughout Clan space. The Cage is then transported to the Outpost system within the Clan Wolf OZ and repaired at the Wolves Fleet facility there. Khan Ward renames the vessel Ward‘s Legacy, after his own Wolf Bloodname instead of one from a dead Clan. The Clans choose to ignore the periphery state Neuva Castile, which the Ice Hellions had used to launch their assault on the Occupation Zones leaving millions of Ice Hellion lower castes to the wilds of periphery guarded by the last surviving cluster of Ice Hellion Warriors. Any attempt to contact this state has failed however as there is a single Lola III-class Destroyer patrolling the nine world state destroying anyone whom shouldn’t be there. This vessel is believed to be either the Impaler or Radiant both former Ice Hellion vessels that have not been seen since the fall of the Ice Hellion Clan and have not been captured by any of the other Clans.
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Camelot Medical Facility
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th August 3068
At seven in the morning at one of the most prestigious medical clinics in Avalon City Major Ross McKinnon and Captain Rachel McKinnon become parents to Canin Aleksandr McKinnon their first child. Their son is named in honour of Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats, the man who brought them together, and Alexandr Kerensky, the legendary commander of the first Star League Defence Force.
Mars Orbit/Near Orbit
Terran System, Chaos March
13th August 3068
Using the last of their WarShip fleet ComStar launches an all out offensive against the Word of Blake fleet. The six remaining combat vessels of ComStar, supported by over fifty assault DropShips, moved in on Martian Orbit to find four ancient Corvettes, two Bonaventure-class and two Vigilant-class, supported by a Quixote-class Missile Frigate and a Tracker-class Surveillance craft none of these WarShip classes have been seen in centuries thought wiped out during the Amaris Coup and Succession Wars, where the Word of Blake was able to salvage or build these vessels is unknown.
Tagging the Quixote as the biggest threat the ComGuards went after the missile frigate with everything they had. Although the frigate could put a lot of anti-WarShip missiles in the air it had no anti-fighter weapons and small engines compared to its size so it could not run. While the Blake’s Strength supported by the Fire Fang and Saratoga engaged the Corvettes and Surveillance craft the two ComGuard Carrack-Merchant vessels and the Artemis-class Terra supported by the majority of the DropShips and fighters engaged and destroyed the Quixote in a short one sided battle as the Corvettes fail to defend the vessel that could have turned the battle to the Word of Blake‘s side.
With the loss of this vessel the remaining Word of Blake naval forces attempted to run but the ancient vessels could not hope to outrun the ComGuard fighters and DropShips and were swiftly destroyed clearing the way for eleven full Divisions, three quarters of what remains of the ComGuard, ground troops to make their way to the ground and begin the serious business of liberating Mars. During the fighting three DropShips, a Fortress, an Overlord and one of a class never seen before lift off from Mars fighting defensively against ComStar and Word of Blake forces these DropShips hook-up with a JumpShip waiting nearby and leave the system. ComStar allow the vessels to leave knowing that four DropShips are no threat to them at the moment. During the battle the ComGuard lose the Star Cat, one of the Carrack-Merchants, to heavy Capital Missile fire from the Quixote and directly following the battle the crew of the Terra are forced to abandon the vessel as they are unable to control the explosive decompressions caused by damage. The vessel is heavily damaged but possibly salvageable after the fighting is over for now ComStar leave the vessel to join the dozens of derelicts littering the Terra system.
Royal Palace
Tharkad City, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
20th August 3068
On Tharkad in front of the media as promised Peter Steiner-Davion signs the Arc-Royal Protocols with Khan Phelan Kell. The Arc-Royal Protocols officially recognise Clan Wolf (in-Exile) as an independent entity working within the Lyran Alliance and with full autonomy and independence but still held to the Lyran Alliances rules, as well as its own. At the same time Archon Peter Steiner-Davion recognises the world of Arc-Royal as the capital of the combat theatre formerly known as the Pandora Theatre recognising the loss of Pandora to the Jade Falcons and the Lyran people changing to recognise this. Grand Duke Morgan Kell of Arc-Royal is recognised as Margrave of the Arc-Royal Theatre despite his mercenary origins.
Columbus Facility
Deep Periphery
25th August 3068
In retaliation for the Loss of Mars to the ComGuard a Word of Blake Carson-class Destroyer arrived in over the Columbus Facility and initiated an Orbital Bombardment of the surface destroying most of the facility. In orbit both Faslane-class Yardships that serve the Explorer Corps are destroyed by the Blakist WarShip when they try to move away. Although ComGuard fighters and DropShips were able to engage and destroy the Destroyer Columbus Base is effectively destroyed with ninety percent of the personnel dead and the life support systems obliterated. With the Explorer Corps decapitated and the base unable to support its population Columbus begins to transmit a distress signal hoping the Draconis Combine or an Explorer Corps vessel on assignment will arrive and save them.
Caph
Chaos March
29th August 3068
In response to Federated Suns and Capellan Confederation moves in the Chaos March the Draconis Combine take Caph from the Word of Blake. The Word of Blake’s Third Division attempt to stand up to an assault launched by the Eighth Sword of Light Regiment. The Elite Word of Blake troops put up quite a fight however facing a full regiment of the Draconis Combine Mustered Society they stand little chance and following six hours of fighting on the radioactive world there is little left of the Division to be put into make-shift prisoner of war camps. The Draconis Combine claim Caph as a world of the Al’nir Prefecture placing a Draconis Combine friendly ruler and government in place. The Eighth Sword of Light stay on the world to ensure no-one attempts to cause trouble for the Combine’s newest acquisition. To ensure there is no trouble from the Word of Blake’s remaining WarShip fleet the DCS Draconis Rift, a Kyushu-class Frigate enters the system adding its firepower the to regiment on the ground and brining in supplies for the worlds population as the Draconis Combine attempts to win the hearts-and-minds of the newly conquered population.
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Terra Firma, Capolla
Terracap Confederation, Chaos March
4th September 3068
Following the Draconis Combine’s move to take Caph and the Capellan Confederation’s increasing efforts to secure the last free worlds of the Chaos March the Federated Suns Capellan March under the direction of Field Marshal Baron George Hasek launches assaults on Terra Firma and Capolla the two worlds that make up the Terracap Confederation just one jump outside the Federated Suns held Zurich Salient. For years terrorist activities in the region had been blamed on this tiny state because of its suspected links to the Capellan Confederation. As the Capellans now hold most of the worlds in the region surrounding the Terracap Confederation Federated Suns Intelligence believe it will be only a short period before the Capellan Chancellor annex’s the Terracap worlds as well.
Onto Terra Firma the Federated Suns drop the Second NAIS Cadre Regiment, a training unit of the New Avalon Institute of Sciences, and the Eighth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT while onto Capolla they drop two regiments of the Vegan Rangers Mercenary Brigade. On Terra Firma the two Federated Suns units encounter the Shin Legion a Capellan Confederation second-line regiment of questionable loyalties and the Capellan Warrior House Hiritsu. The Federated Suns units fall on the Capellan forces destroying the Shin Legion in a quick brutal battle however Warrior House Hiritsu avoids most of the fighting and is able to escape via a JumpShip hidden in the system. On the planet the two Federated Suns units find a world in chaos with dozens of hidden prison facilities holding thousands of prisoners many under heavy guard which the Federated Suns forces destroy as quickly. The prisoners all claim to not know why they were being held and none appear to be political prisoners. On Capolla the mercenary units encounter an unknown unit using Star League-era tech. Believed to be a Word of Blake unit or some unknown mercenary unit the force refuses orders to stand down or leave the system and attacks the Vegan Rangers doing heavy damage to the Beta Regiment of the Rangers before finally succumbing to the heavier firepower and superior numbers of the mercenaries. Over the following days the Mercenaries find similar camps to those found on Terra Firma.
After debriefing of the prisoners on both worlds by DMI and MIIO Intelligence agencies of the Federated Suns and SLIC operators of the Star League Defence Force they are mostly released to the worlds population. Some prisoners remain under lock up because they really are criminals and the last thing anyone wants is to feed criminal organisations on the newly captured worlds. The two worlds both seem to accept, even welcome, the new Federated Suns rule.
On New Syrtis Field Marshal George Hasek begins to look at the Capellan Confederation as a viable target now most of the Chaos March worlds have been taken. Officially the Capellan March is not cleared to attack the Confederation however covertly several Federated Suns units are routinely breaking the Confederation’s borders testing their defences and raiding their research and manufacturing plants.
Nova Cat Colony
New Dagda
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
8th September 3068
Despite the efforts of the Nova Cat medical technicians to prolong the pregnancy a long as possible Yvonne (Rosse) gives birth to her second child a healthy girl named Sonja, on New Dagda the newest of the Nova Cat’s colonies worlds. The reason for the attempt to prolong the pregnancy was so the en route Khan would be able to make it to the birth of his second child. With Canin missing the birth of Sonja he has now missed the births of both his children, although he did see all three via an HPG burst transmission to his WarShip Sandra Rosse deep in the periphery.
Ares
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th September 3068
With the loss of any chance of gaining control of the Terracap Confederation without a full assault Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao decides that further moves in the Chaos March are not worth the Capellan states efforts, the only ’free’ worlds in the Chaos March are Liberty, guarded by the Allied Mercenary Command, Northwind, guarded by almost all the Northwind Highlander Regiments, Outreach guarded by the Wolf’s Dragoons and their remaining WarShips and Terra which although not part of any successor state is heavily embattled and any attempt to gain control of it by any Successor State would spark another Succession War, a conflict the Confederation is no-where near ready for.
With only these options and recalls his forces instead choosing to reclaim lost territory starting with Ares lost earlier in the year to a raid by Federated Suns Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner. The Warrior House Mai-Tsu Kai and the Second Capellan Reserve Cavalry attempt to regain control of the world from the Third NAIS Cadre and the First Capellan Dragoons although they cause heavy damage to the two Federated Suns Regiments they are forced to retreat following this raid the Federated Suns reinforce the system with the Hound-class WarShip FSS Admiral Michael Sallie that could delay or stop anything but a full assault by the Capellans. Following this deployment Chancellor Liao realises that the Admiral Michael Sallie is a lure bait to bring his tiny WarShip fleet within striking range of the Federated Suns, for now he decides to bide his time unlike many past Capellan Chancellors Sun-Tzu Liao sees the long term picture.
Mars
Terran System, Chaos March
28th September 3068
After almost a month and a half fighting on the red soil of Mars the remains of three ComStar Divisions stand triumphant but at a heavy cost. On Mars several of the domed cities have been breached by weapons fire killing thousands of innocent civilians bystanders as the two halves of ComStar have torn each other to pieces. Militarily the effects have also been devastating with hundreds dead on either side. Eight Divisions worth of ComGuard troops lay dead or incapacitated on the Martian landscape while on the Word of Blake’s side six Divisions of troops are dead or prisoners, the Mercenary Battalion known as the Martian Cuirassiers, which appeared during the fighting has been destroyed and the Word of Blake ROM and its headquarters have been torn apart. Among the dead are the Sixth Free Worlds Legionaries which went AWOL from the Free Worlds League when the nation fell apart and three Divisions of Word of Blake troops that heavily utilise cybernetic enhanced warriors. ComStar decide to dig in on Mars, much like they have at Titan, and repair as much of their forces as possible preparing for the next round of assaults against Terra.
Ecol City, Spaceport
Thorin, Freedom Theatre
Lyran Alliance
30th September 3068
Since returning from the Clan Homeworlds and taking a position full-time in the reborn Star League Defence Force Archer Christifori had returned home to Thorin several times. During the Clan War his parents had both died and left behind a transport business that Archer left his sister Andrea to care for. This was his first visit as the Acting-Commanding-General of the SLDF, as he continued to cover for the recovering Morgan Hasek-Davion, because he was effectively in command of the Star League and because of Thorin’s strong relationship with the first Star League on the ground in front of his DropShip stood a Battalion of the Fifteenth Arcturan Guards Regiment of the LAAF and the Battalion strong militia standing as an honour guard.
With Archer was a full combined arms Battalion of the his first Brigade, the rest had remained on Kittery ensuring there were no further attempts on Morgan‘s life. From his Penetrator’s cockpit Archer moved the seventy-five ton BattleMech that had served him through the Clan War through all the conflicts to today out of the main Mechbay door of the Overlord-class DropShip. As soon as the Penetrator stepped clear of the DropShip and onto Thorin soil the Fifteenth Arcturan and the militia troops all snapped to attention. Archer marched his BattleMech down the line then pivoted to face Colonel Felix Blucher’s Atlas, down the line more of his Battalion were exiting the vessel lining up to face the Fifteenth Arcturan, the SLDF troops were in a very exposed position if this turned nasty. “Attention!†Archer ordered into the comm. and the SLDF troops stood at attention for several seconds. Archer noticed his communication system was active so he keyed it in.
“General Christifori, we are honoured to welcome you to Thorin, welcome home.†Blucher said on an open frequency glancing around Archer noticed that there were several camera crews around and noted the Lyran Colonel had put this on to keep on good terms with the civilians. The reason for the Fifteenth’s continued presence on Thorin was a mystery to Archer, Thorin had not been attacked by an outside force in centuries and they had only been stationed here because former-Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion disliked the world’s strong support for her brothers and Archer's refusal to return and serve in the LAAF under her leadership.
“Thank you, Colonel, you honour us with this display.†Archer replied on an open channel “put your men at ease Colonel, we are going to be here a while.â€
“Very good General, Fifteenth Arcturan Guards at ease!†Blucher said “what brings Thorin’s most famous warrior home?â€
“Family, business and the University of Thorin.†Archer said still on an open frequency, he knew once the news crews realised what he had just said there would be a media frenzy but he’d decided that there would be nothing hidden during this mission.
“Very good General. Will you require use of The Fort?†Blucher asked the Star League-era fortification was the only remnant of the Star League still in use on Thorin it was an imposing structure that could house an entire Battalion of troops easily and sustain a direct hit from a nuclear detonation. Blucher’s Fifteenth as the ranking military force on planet was in control of the facility while the militia used facilities downtown, probably another reason the locals were unhappy with the Fifteenth’s continued presence.
“Negative, Colonel, but thanks for the offer.†Archer said on an open frequency then swapped over to another frequency. “My troops will camp in the wilderness near the Remington Forest to secure the University ruins and protect the excavation teams, I will store my Mech at my companies warehouses if I stay in the city.â€
“Have you clearance to conduct operations on Thorin General?†Blucher asked quietly the Colonel was a by-the-book officer, and in the times Archer had met him, during family visits, he had found he respected the man for his actions and the way he operated. Sometimes however it did annoy him.
“Negative, officially I am visiting my sister and checking in on my company.†Archer said quietly “however Thorin has languished for too long, it is time someone began to take notice of this world again.†He said, hopefully Blucher would not complain too much “if there is a problem I can send word to Tharkad via the SLS Covenant explaining my actions.†He added remembering the Star League WarShip assigned to Archer until Morgan was recovered from his injuries.
“I don’t think that will be necessary General, we will talk later, for now welcome home.†Blucher said sounding slightly surprised that there was a WarShip in system, Archer hoped he had not overstepped his position by taking the Covenant into Lyran space. Blucher’s Atlas followed by the rest of the Lyran Mechs, vehicles and infantry then began to move out.
“Major Spade take the Battalion to the agreed positions and begin setting up for the archaeological and excavation team. I will join you later.†He said into the SLDF general frequency.
“Yes, sir†his aide Samantha Spade said moments later the entire battalion began moving out heading for the country side to the north. Once they were out of range Archer pivoted his Mech through one hundred-and-eighty degrees then stood at attention one more time this time to the militia troops who all returned his salute then the shut down his Penetrator and made his was to the ground, by the time he had reached the ground Archer found the Mech surrounded by members of the militia cheering his arrival.
Standing in the centre of the crowd was Andrea Christifori, his younger sister and all the family that he had left, Andrea wrote articles for the local paper and ran the family business in his absence. Andrea was in many ways exactly like Archer with a very similar build only on a smaller, younger frame, around her neck she wore the Star League Medal of Honour Archer had been presented on Huntress, he’d given it to her when he arrived back on Thorin following the return of the Star League Army from Clan Space. Although Andrea disliked the military and wars she understood its necessity and fully respected his choice to join the SLDF. “Welcome home!†She shouted over the crowd wrapping her arms around his neck giving him a small kiss on the cheek. Andrea drifted off to his side clearing room for the next person to step forward Hauptmann Katya Chafee, a former MechWarrior herself and head of the militia’s intelligence network on Thorin and extending to other areas of the Freedom Theatre. Katya and Archer had gotten on well since they first met just after the Clan War and every time he had returned to Thorin they had gotten closer, Archer leaned forward and swept her up into his arms turning her around in the centre of the crowd embracing her.
“Is that any way to welcome a Hauptmann?†another voice asked over the crowd Archer looked over and noticed Darius Hopkins, a former militia officer himself had only recently retired to work for Archer’s company. Darius had been like a surrogate father for Archer during his youth supporting his application to the militia and then NAIS. Archer broke off his kiss with Katya briefly to look at Darius.
“Probably not, but it feels wonderful†Archer said smiling then turning back to Katya kissing her again, the militia went wild once more at that remark, everyone of them was born on Thorin and to them Archer was a hero not only because he was from Thorin, had fought the Clan and one of the highest placed members of the SLDF but also because he had been one of the first to truly see Katherine Steiner-Davion for who she was and to refuse to fight for her. “Darius, would it be a suitable way to welcome a fiancée?†Archer said as he lowered Katya to the ground, his eyes never leaving Katya’s face suddenly the crowd went silent more out of shock than anything else. Most surprised was Katya, her grip on his arm had gotten even tighter in the moments that had passed since he had spoken.
“That sounded like a proposition.†Darius said his gruff voice more than a little surprised.
“Yes it did, didn’t it?†Archer said still looking at Katya “well?†He whispered
“Yes†Katya whispered the crowd began to murmur as if they hadn’t heard her properly. “Yes†she said louder smiling as she launched her self into Archer’s embrace a massive smile crossing her face. The crowd went totally crazy in celebration as Archer spun Katya around in a full circle, her feet never touching the ground. In the crowd Archer saw Andrea standing smiling a tear was running down her cheek but she looked pleased, he knew that Andrea and Katya knew each other very well from the letters they had exchanged and during his last visit they had all gone out to dinner, now things would change that was for sure. Archer was sure they would talk later but for now they were in for a massive party.
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Fort Melissa, Dalbans Mountains
Albion Continent, New Avalon
4th October 3068
The Lion-class DropShip Wolf Paw, belonging to the Wolf’s Dragoons, had entered the New Avalon system, on a civilian registered JumpShip, and been secretly directed to Fort Melissa, a large military facility to the south-west of Avalon City on the Albion Continent. Landing amongst the forces of the First Davion Guards RCT Commander Michi Noketsuna stepped from the vessel with several escorts, two in Elemental Battle Armour. Michi a former DCMS Battalion Commander during the War of 39 had fought against House Davion during that conflict and several other battles however today he was here as a member of the Wolf’s Dragoon’s WolfNet intelligence service not to fight but negotiate, the Dragoons had chosen to call in their ‘anything you want’ offer made by Victor Steiner-Davion following the Word of Blake attack against his escorts in the Chaos March.
Because Victor is off New Avalon on business meeting with Morgan Hasek-Davion regarding the Star League and the Federated Suns Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner negotiates with them. The Dragoons point out that since they lost a WarShip saving Victor’s life they expect a WarShip in return Reinhart is more than willing to offer them a Fox or Hound-class Corvette however the Dragoons want an Avalon-class Cruiser, something the Federated Suns is unwilling to turn over, having already given one to the Lyran Alliance.
Following several days of negotiation Reinhart and the Dragoons agree that a Davion Block III-class Destroyer will be transferred to Dragoon control to make up for the loss of the Darius. The Dragoons win because they have gained a superior vessel than their lost Lola-III and the Federated Suns wins because the remain on good terms with the Dragoons. At the end of the meeting Michi Noketsuna, as a representative of WolfNet and the Allied Mercenary Command sends a message to Victor Steiner-Davion as First Lord of the Star League. The world of Liberty currently under the protection of the Allied Mercenary Command wants Star League Protectorate status following several Capellan raids and the Confederation’s control over several nearby systems, Victor agrees and dispatches an SLDF unit immediately. Noketsuna assures the SLDF that the AMC will remain on the world as long as is needed.
Command Deck, FSS Admiral Michael Sallie
Ares System, Zenith Point
Capellan March, Federated Suns
8th October 3068
Walking onto the command bridge of his WarShip, the FSS Admiral Michael Sallie Commodore Philip Montrose was still rubbing sleep-sand from his eyes as he saw the holo-tank in the centre of the Hound-class Corvette’s command deck light up. “This better be good, Miss Andrews, I was just asleep when those blasted sirens went off!†Philip shouted over the sirens at his executive officer Lisa Andrews turning to the tactical officer “shut that damned sirens off!†Within seconds they were silenced. “Good, now what is this all about Major?â€
“Sir, sensors detected a pair of Jump Signatures coming in at the Nadir point, one appears to be an Imparvido-class Destroyer while the other is eighty-nine percent confirmed as a Feng Huang-class Cruiser.†Lisa said as the Holo-tank got up to speed and plotted the locations of the two jump signatures.
“Expected time of arrival?†Philip asked his sensor officer all business now the irritation from lack of sleep gone.
“Sixteen minutes.â€
“Well that’s something.†Philip said thinking quietly the Admiral Michael Sallie carried two DropShips of its own, both assault class vessels and had three Vengeance-class carrier ships attached to it for this patrol but against two WarShips the small corvette stood little chance. “Communications send a burst transmission to the planet tell them they have incoming, very possibly elite Capellan troops with full WarShip support they are to hold as long as possible then get a message off to the JumpShips order them to get out of the system by any means, there’s no telling if the Capellans will stick to the rules of engagement.†He said assessing the situation the three JumpShips had no combat DropShips or combat value on their own but the Capellan commander may see it as a way of hurting the Federated Suns by destroying them as well ignoring the Ares Convention, the irony in that was well beyond Philip at this point. “Jump Master, reel in the Jump Sail and store for combat operations.†He said looking over at the Jump Sail operator, the crew now knew his next order “engines full thrust as soon as that sail is back aboard. Weapons officer, full combat alert begin checks on all weapons. CAG†he said over his shoulder at the Commander of the vessel’s aerospace fighter wing and the five DropShips, known as the Commander-of-Air-Group, “brief your pilots and DropShip crews of the situation, I want your pilots to hit the enemy fighters and DropShips to hit the enemy DropShips leave the WarShips to us unless you have nothing else to hit. All ships in the sky two minutes before the enemy arrives - slow burn.†There was half a dozen ‘ayes’ as the crew got to work, they didn’t have a chance against two WarShips but would take as many Capellans with them as possible.
It actually took the enemy vessels twenty-two minutes to enter the system protecting three JumpShips. All the vessels immediately detached a total of sixteen DropShips which all blazed towards Ares, the JumpShips then executed an immediate jump clear of the system abandoning their fighters and DropShips. “Helm, at the Feng Huang its guns are far too weak for a cruiser, time to show the Capellans that they made a fatal mistake when designing her, standard approach speed.†Philip said the corvette began accelerating to two-and-a-half gravities worth of acceleration the Hound had another half a gravity worth of thrust but at the moment the Capellans would be trying to work out if this was a Fox or Hound-class so he had a little advantage. “Weapons fire at will, have the gunners concentrate their fire on the Imparvido for now, it has the weaker armour so we do damage to them first. If we are still here at point blank give that Feng Huang everything we have left.†Philip said looking over at the weapons officers the Admiral Michael Saille’s weapons opened fire along the port side, forward port quarter and fore areas the conventional Rotary Autocannons although not designed for use against targets as big as a WarShip complemented the Naval Autocannons and Naval Lasers well causing damage down the Capellan Destroyer’s port side while the Capellan’s return fire, made up of Naval Autocannons and lasers caused little damage to the Davion Corvette.
“Sir, Feng Huang moving, looks like they don’t want to engage us, they haven’t fired at us. Looks like they want to assist their DropShips.†The sensor operator said.
“Sir, CAG reports heavy fighter screen on the Capellan Droppers, looks like the WarShips sent everything they had to defend them.†The flight officer control said moments later Philip remained calm, the last thing they needed was someone loosing it, especially him. The Feng Huang was very poorly armed for a cruiser but it did have very tightly packed anti-fighter weapons and several Naval lasers and PPCs that could heavily damage DropShips making it a decent escort, the Capellans obviously noticed that. The Imparvido was here to keep any Davion WarShips tied up long enough for the Feng Huang to eliminate any defending DropShips and fighters. The Admiral Michael Sallie was just now entering range for the Capellan Feng Huang and Philip could see the weapons targeting begin to shift.
“Order the CAG to take his fighters straight into the Feng Huang for a single pass then head deeper into the system, the surviving DropShips are to do the same but targeting the enemy DropShips, one pass then run.†He said looking at the Flight Operations officer “give them a rendezvous point out of the path of the Capellans where the Fighters can refuel then all forces are to head for Ares full thrust and assist ground operations.†The Flight Ops officer nodded the assault against the WarShip was a desperate call but Philip didn’t have any options left. “Weapons ignore the Feng Huang and kill that damned Imparvido! Helm, zigzag course with the Imparvido keep us out of their forward arc constantly showing them our broadside, any move to keep us living is a good one and take us to max thrust.†The Admiral Michael Sallie shot forwards with the newfound speed narrowly avoiding a tight grouping of Naval Autocannon fire from the Capellan Destroyer which would have likely breached the hull on the already battered port side. The helm officer had been tracking the damage and rolled the corvette over onto its back, making the vessel appear ‘upside-down’ to the Capellans, this presented the Capellan vessel with new untouched armour which was almost immediately hammered by a pair of Naval Lasers which rocked the corvette. At the same time the Admiral’s own broadside Autocannon array spoke out causing a breach in the Capellan’s forward port side, the Capellan vessel rolled over to protect its damaged side forcing the Admiral Michael Saille’s gunners to start again. Philip Montrose looked at the holo-tank image and knew what was about to happen, for several moments he had thought their survival was possible but not now the Imparvido was firing only defensively with conventional weapons which meant only one thing. “Communications message to Ares, DropShips and Fighters, Admiral Michael Sallie is lost†he said just as the Imparvido fired all its forward weapons at once. Philip had heard MechWarriors describe this as an enemy doing an ’Alpha-strike’ firing everything it had in a desperate attempt to kill an enemy but all he knew it was a death sentence. The destroyer fired a tight grouping of Naval autocannons, Lasers, PPCs and a myriad of conventional weapons that tore into the Hound-class corvette’s forward armour one of the salvos breached the armour and tore into the command bridge killing the command crew instantly and destroying any control the vessel had. The gunners throughout the ship continued to manually fire once, twice, after the loss of the bridge knowing the vessel was doomed by defiant to the end, they knew that the Capellans would take no prisoners from this battle. Without main control and with power failing they had trouble even getting near with their erratic before the Capellan’s second salvo tore the corvette in half cracking the K-F Boom killing anyone who remained on the vessel.
Deeper in the system the two remaining DropShips and a dozen Davion Aerospace fighters broke off their attacks content with four DropShip kills and almost thirty fighter kills against the invading Capellan Forces. The loss of the Admiral Michael Sallie hurt and surrendered space superiority to the Capellans but they had destroyed the majority of the Capellan’s fighter force which would give the ground forces an advantage, the only way the Capellans could help their ground forces would be by using orbital bombardment something the Capellans were not likely to do considering Ares history of preserving life with the Ares Conventions which had outlawed Orbital Bombardment centuries ago. Instead the Capellan WarShips damaged but still deadly maintained positions in the system auctioning a total blockade on the Ares system destroying any DropShip or JumpShip that entered they system without their consent. The Capellan’s intent is to starve out the Davion ground troops if their ground troops failed to dislodge the Federated Suns defenders.
Calish II/Calish III
Outworlds Alliance
14th October 3068
In an unprovoked attack two suspected Draconis Combine hired Mercenary Companies land on the twin system of Calish attacking both inhabited planets. On Calish II the Mercenaries concentrate on stealing four brand-new Corax OmniFighters while on Calish III the Mercenaries target the HPG destroying it cutting the system off from the rest of the Alliance. Once their primary objectives had been completed both units then ran amok primarily targeting the Outworlds Alliance Ground Forces but also several civilian resorts near both targeted facilities they then retreated leaving nearly three thousand dead civilians over both worlds and at least twice that many injured. The mercenaries are then collected by a Combine registered civilian JumpShip, the Draconis Combine Coordinator Hohiro Kurita issues an official statement denying he ordered the attack however both the Outworlds Alliance and the small number of Snow Ravens garrisoned in their territories are not happy with the assault, the Ravens more so as it opens up wounds caused by the White Cloud’s destruction.
Star League Command
Kittery, Capellan March
Federated Suns
21st October 3068
The Star League Intelligence Corps delivers its report to Morgan Hasek-Davion, another is delivered to Archer Christifori as acting-commanding-general, the report delivers the SLIC’s findings regarding the assassination attempt against the life of Morgan Hasek-Davion earlier in the year. The report directly points to a Capellan Confederation based Thuggee Terrorist Cell that was later discovered and destroyed by the Capellan Confederation, officially during their own attempts to rid the Confederation of the menace created by Sun-Tzu’s sister Kali still incarcerated on Highspire for the Black May attacks against the St Ives Compact during the First St Ives/Confederation War almost a decade before. Morgan decides for now to leave the Confederation to riding themselves of the threat, the Star League have more important things to do than follow a trail of vengeance.
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Nova Cat Colony
Nouveaux Paris
Deep Periphery
3rd November 3068
Above the world of Nouveaux Paris seven Clan Nova Cat WarShips and three Clan Diamond Shark WarShips sat waiting, on the planet inside the small Nova Cat colony, which shared the world with the original inhabitants. Across the table in one of the main meeting rooms of the colony sat Khan Lynn McKenna of Clan Diamond Shark and Khan Canin Rosse of Clan Nova Cat they had met to complete the deal which would trade control of the Potemkin-class Coterie to the Diamond Sharks. “The Coterie for the Bloodlust is an acceptable deal, I am sure the Nova Cats will have more use for another Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser than the Diamond Sharks and it will offset your recent loss against the cloud cobras.†Lynn McKenna said after a moments thought Canin nodded agreeing with the deal, the Nova Cats would never need a vessel with the capacity of the Coterie but the Diamond Sharks may. “Seyla†they both said in unison ending the ritual forever after a moments silence Canin then spoke up.
“I noticed you had a corvette with you also, the Swift Strike†he said mentioning the Fredasa-class vessel he had seen during the Nova Cats entry to the system “I was wondering if the Diamond Sharks would be interested in trading that vessel also, perhaps for a vessel more suitable for their needs.†Canin said quietly the Diamond Sharks did use their navy but almost never in a combat theatre more in transport and for security or a threat of trouble.
“I may be tempted by that offer, what vessel would you suggest?â€
“I was thinking of the Nebula, one of the Carrack-Merchant vessels my Clan possess, which happens to be in the system.†Canin said smiling broadly the temptation of another impressive cargo vessel would be enough to tempt the Diamond Shark leader into making another deal.
“The Swift Strike is carrying some very valuable Diamond Shark cargo, fifteen thousand brand-new Gauss Sub-Machine Guns, perhaps the Nova Cats would like to rethink their offer, Quiaff?†She asked quite forcefully Canin nodded silently the presence of the personnel weapons changed little for Canin, he had heard of them and seen one being used noting it was a very capable infantry weapon so adding them to the deal appealed to him.
“What if I was to give you the Nebula full of cargo and with both DropShips attached, each carrying a Trinary of second-line Nova Cat BattleMechs, I keep the crew and MechWarriors obviously.†Canin said covering his back loosing the Mechs was bad enough but transferring them to his other WarShips would be difficult and time wasting so offloading them and with all the Nova Cat factories working at full strength he could afford to lose them for gaining another WarShip.
“A very generous offer†Lynn McKenna said thinking “you would not feel hard done by loosing these resources Quineg?â€
“Neg, the Nova Cats have no plans for conquest not yet. For now security is important to me and my people. Having another capable WarShip and having anti-infantry weapons can only help my Clan.â€
“Then I think we can deal, having another Merchant vessel will bring the Diamond Sharks a new level of trade and the presence of the Coterie, I mean the Typhoon†she said renaming the vessel as she took possession “will enhance the Diamond Shark future.†She said shaking Canin’s hand “Seyla!†they both said together again sealing the ritual for all time “and if you are looking for anti-infantry weapons the Diamond Sharks may have something for you soon.†She promised smiling Canin glanced at her questionably but did not push, if the Diamond Shark Khan wanted to tell him something they would. For now he had a long journey home and some reorganisation to do with the fleet, in the last year the Nova Cat WarShip Fleet had undergone more changes than it had in the last century.
Kell Family Residence
Arc-Royal, Old Connaught
Arc-Royal Theatre, Lyran Alliance
18th November 3068
After several days of illness Margrave Grand-Duke Morgan Kell leader of the Arc-Royal Theatre of the Lyran Alliance, Commander and Founder of the Kell Hounds and one of the most respected mercenary commanders and planetary leaders passes away in his sleep on Arc-Royal. Archon Peter Steiner-Davion announces that the Lyran Alliance will hold a full week’s worth of mourning.
Days after Khan Phelan Kell, Morgan’s son and commander of Clan Wolf (in-Exile), announces that leadership and ownership of the Kell Hounds will pass to Lt. Colonel Daniel Allard and his wife Megan Kell, Phelan’s younger sister. Phelan announces that the Kell Hounds will remain a Mercenary Command and asks only that they keep the Kell Hound name. Colonel Allard, finally accepting the promotion to full Colonel with Morgan’s passing, tells Phelan and the Inner Sphere at large that it will be an honour to keep the Kell Hound name and that the Kell Hounds will remain true to the ideals taught by Morgan and Patrick Kell, Morgan’s elder and long-dead brother.
Morgan’s body is placed on display for all to see for just over a month before being laid to rest on the 24th December at a secret location on Arc-Royal. Phelan and Megan say that they do not want anyone ever finding their father’s body and to leave his burial site a fact lost to history, no-one dares incurring the Wolf (in-Exile) Clan’s or the Kell Hound’s wrath by disobeying Morgan’s children’s wishes.
Columbus Base
Deep Periphery
21st November 3068
Receiving the distress call from Columbus Base three of Clan Snow Raven WarShip’s arrive in orbit of the facility and evacuate the survivors of the thousand strong garrison based at the facility less than three hundred survived the Word of Blake assault. At the scientific enclave several kilometres away the Snow Ravens find no survivors. The Snow Ravens evacuate all survivors to their enclaves in the Outworlds Alliance, the Explorer Corps personnel put up no resistance.
Open Plains
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
28th November 3068
Standing in open fields on the Northern Continent under a canopy with one open end behind the podium giving grand views of the Defiance Mountain Range. Surrounding the area was the entire Davion Heavy Guards RCT and surrounding the tent itself was the Royal Black Watch BattleMech Regiment supported by Battle Armour and Aerospace Fighters, no-one was taking any chances with this event’s security.
First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion looked out over the ground that the Star League Army had used to prepare for Task Force Bulldog and Serpent, the Annihilation of Clan Smoke Jaguar. Behind him stood members from almost all the member states of the Star League and several House Davion nobles. Today Victor would speak not only as First Prince of the Federated Suns but also First Lord of the Star League. Stepping up to the podium he looked over the grounds one last time, confirming to himself that this was the best decision for this backwater world of the Federated Suns, happy with his choice he turned back to the gathered people.
“Ladies and gentlemen today we stand on the ground that helped train the Star League destroy Clan Smoke Jaguar.†He said pausing allowing the enormity of the accomplishment that had been. “Many of the men and women that trained here did not return home, but their legacy lives on in the Star League Defence Force reborn. An organisation not only dedicated to defend the Inner Sphere from the Clans but also help shape the future of the Inner Sphere. Over the last few years the SLDF has expanded and lost units but continues to gather the respect of the current generation and welcome new worlds into its care.†Again he paused to look around specifically at the Advisory Council who had been recently kicked off Tukayyid as the Free Rasalhague Republic joined the Ghost Bear Dominion, in many people’s eyes they had sold out the Star League for a bigger better ally, Victor understood their reasons although he did not agree with them the Rasalhague people were looking for what they had always been looking for, their freedom, and they saw that now under the ruler ship of the Ghost Bears who could provide them with protection as well.
“Recently the Star League resurrected another tradition of the ancient Star League, the Martial Olympiad. For centuries the Olympiad had been a staple of the Star League a vent that allowed warriors from across the Inner Sphere to display their talents without resorting to all out war, a competition that allowed for the greatest shows of talent and honour the Inner Sphere has ever seen. With the loss of Tukayyid there has been many fears that the Martial Olympiad would be lost to the centuries once more however I have decided that the Olympiad deserves its place in the Star League and as First Lord of the Star League I have picked the world that trained us to kill a Clan to host future Olympiads and that the Advisory Council formerly based on Tukayyid will also find a home here. Defiance will become a beacon of the resurrected Star League and the Federated Suns, filling a place that it deserves over almost any other.†He said as the crowd clapped at the announcement, many had known about the idea and most agreed with it although all knew what world he was referring to, Terra, the Homeworld of Humanity, the Cameron Family and the Star League. One of these days Terra would become the home to the Star League once more but for now the SLDF would make do with the worlds it had been given. Defiance would be a very suitable home for the new Olympiad and the Advisory Council and it would give Victor a close hand on the Council even after the end of his tenure as First Lord helping the Star League and the Federated Suns, a match made in heaven. Days after Sun-Tzu Liao and his Trinary Alliance allies complained about the arrangement but Victor was able to ignore these minor members of the League and with Peter, Kai and Hohiro backing his move there was little the Trinary Alliance states could do.
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Galisteo, Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey
Former Free Worlds League
4th December 3068
Santa Fe Chronicle report - Located on the High Sierra, the town of Bad Rock is no stranger to violence. However, what started as a simple demonstration against proposed restructuring of the tax system escalated into a full-scale battle that has levelled half the town.
Local ranchers had been voicing dissatisfaction with the new “Cattle Tax†since it was first proposed last year by the new Duchy of Tamarind-Abby administration. On the 12th September, when the ranchers paraded through the main street of Bad Rock in their CattleMasters and LoaderMechs, Sheriff Neils Fernandez called in Swann’s Cavaliers to help keep the peace. The precise chain of events remains unclear, but second-hand accounts suggest that the mercenary company immediately opened fire on the protesters. The Cavaliers may have been incorrectly briefed on the situation, or perhaps they mistook the ranchers’ IndustrialMechs for bandits. Whatever the cause, by the time order was restored, twenty civilians and two mercenaries were dead, with upwards of one hundred civilians wounded.
Protests over the mercenaries’ actions have been lodged with the governor and the Duchess of Tamarind, but no action has been forthcoming. Since the incident confrontations have occurred between the mercenaries and the independent minded citizens of the Trinity Worlds. While none have reached the scale of the so-called Bad Rock Massacre, the situation threatens to spiral out of control.
New Barcella/New Dagda
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
8th December 3068
In the early morning of the 8th December 3068 Khan Canin Rosse returns to the Nova Cat’s Den for the first time for nearly two years. The Khan returns with a virtual armada with a total of seven WarShips and eight additional JumpShips. The Nova Cat naval forces begin reorganising their forces while the newly captured Jade Falcon vessel Gauntlet, a Liberator-class Cruiser, jumps away after releasing its ground forces moving to the Varnay system to begin refit to Anna Rosse-class Battle--cruiser specification. Khan Rosse then takes the Severn Leroux and his Watch Cluster along with the Gauss SMGs gained from Clan Diamond Shark to the New Dagda system, the Khan has two reasons for this: the first is the Nova Cats will be building a small arms weapons facility on New Dagda to manufacture more Gauss SMG Rifles while the second is to visit his family still based on New Dagda. With so many new WarShips added to replace combat losses the Nova Cats begin a reorganisation of their twenty-nine strong WarShip Fleet.
Zenith/Nadir Point, Ares System
Capellan March, Federated Suns
18th December 3068
Following two months of constant blockade and raids the AFFS ground troops on Ares are close to running out of supplies knowing that soon one of the Capellan ground expeditions will breakthrough and destroy them. With the HPG destroyed as during the fighting the Davion troops feel ever alone and surrender is discussed but quickly rejected, the Capellans would kill them instead of capturing them as POWs.
Unbeknown to the Davion ground troops an MIIO/DMI Agent is also based on the planet and is in possession of a Black Box Transmitter. The Black Box is a primitive version of the HPG capable of sending short burst messages over tiny distances, compared to the HPG, House Davion had operated them since gaining them during the FedCom Alliance and the Agent had been ordered to stay secreted from all forces on the world. Throughout the blockade the Federated Suns Agent had been moving from city to city constantly staying one step ahead of the Federated Suns security patrols and the Capellan raiders all along sending messages to the Federated Suns forces out with the Ares system on the 18th his messages had finally gone high enough up the chain for action to be authorised.
First thing in the morning three Federated Suns WarShips, two Davion III-class Destroyers and one Avalon-class Cruiser entered the system via the Zenith point. The Impavido-class Destroyer Zhejiang moved to engage them and stop Davion ground forces reinforcing their Ares Garrison. The Zhejiang causes heavy damage to the Avalon-class Robert Davion before being destroyed by the combined might of the three Federated Suns WarShips. Not waiting for further WarShips to arrive to reinforce the blockade the three Federated Suns WarShips immediately move out to engage the Feng Huang-class Cruiser Franko Martell deeper in the system. Twelve hours later the three vessels clashed with the Franko Martell just outside the orbit of Ares’ second planet. In a short bloody battle the Franko Martell is destroyed by the massive firepower brought to bare against it by all three Federated Suns vessels, the poorly armed Feng Huang-class Cruiser standing no chance, giving the Federated Suns back full control over the world of Ares driving off the Capellan forces for another day. An hour after the battle however the crew of the Robert Davion are forced to abandon ship as the fuel storage tanks rupture obliterating the vessel, the well trained crew are able to escape the vessel almost to the man before the vessel is destroyed. The vessel‘s destruction is put down to unnoticed damaged caused during the battle with the Zhejiang and Franko Martell.
With full control over the system the Federated Suns is able to reinforce their ground troops while in the Capellan Capital of Sian Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao orders his military commanders not to attempt to reclaim Ares again as they cannot afford the losses incurred to the Federated Suns navy to happen again. His fiancée Naomi Centrella is present and not impressed with Sun-Tzu’s words believing that the Capellans are showing weakness by not continuing efforts to liberate Ares, Sun-Tzu dismisses her worries.
Trial of Bloodrite
Erinyes, Orestes
Rasalhague Dominion
25th December 3068
On a day traditionally celebrated with the giving of presents and goodwill the Ghost Bear Dominion and the Free Rasalhague Republic become something more, something far bigger than either of their former nation. Following a year living as the Ghost Bear Dominion the Khan’s of the Ghost Bears, Galaxy Commander (Elected-Prince) Ragnar and the Clan Loremaster Laurie Tseng announce that the Ghost Bear Dominion will be known as the Rasalhague Dominion from now to eternity. This is a strange move by the Ghost Bears removing the name given to them by the Great Father and their Totem animal from their nation’s name however they will not speak of the change. Also Galaxy Commander Ragnar becomes Ragnar Magnesson in an uncontested Trial of Bloodrite on Orestes in a ceremony presided over by the Loremaster. Although the Clans are wary of allowing a freeborn warrior to gain a Bloodname following the case of Phelan Kell and the Wolf Clan the Ghost Bears are far more confident of a good outcome as Magnesson was Ragnar’s second-name when he served the Free Rasalhague Republic, before becoming a Clan warrior, and it is the name used by most of the native Rasalhague inhabitants of the nation when addressing him.
The Magnesson Bloodhouse will, unlike the Wolf Clan’s Kell Bloodname, will not be just a figure head instead it will be a fully formed Bloodhouse around Ragnar, as the first member, created by Ghost Bear genetic scientists on Alshian and will serve all branches of the Dominion’s military. All Ghost Bear non-Bloodnamed warriors will be able to petition to join this Bloodhouse however only the most successful and loyal warriors will be able to fight Trials to join this house and Bloodname. This brings a new lease of life into the Ghost Bear Touman and the Rasalhague Dominion in general.
And so ends 3068, hope you enjoyed it, more soon.
Comments and questions as always are welcome
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On a roll so into 3069...
3069
Constrictor (Whirlwind-class Destroyer)
Pirate Point, Kathil System
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th January 3069
Unlike the other new accusations of the Nova Cat WarShip fleet, which had been sent to the Nova Cat’s Den for refit, the Whirlwind-class Constrictor captured by ransom from the Steel Vipers was directed to the Federated Suns Kathil system. Gaining information on a secret pirate point inside the system the Constrictor slipped into the system as the Nova Cats began negotiations for the under construction Yvonne Steiner-Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser, at the McKenna Shipyards in orbit of Kathil. Seeing that the Nova Cats are serious and that the Constrictor is on the table in the negotiations and the Federated Suns do not even attempt to hide their enthusiasm to gaining control of the vessel due to the similarities between the Whirlwind-class and their own Davion Block III-class Destroyer. The Whirlwind originated as the Davion Block I-class Destroyer and was converted by the First Star League into the Whirlwind following their purchase by the First Lord during the Reunification War.
The negotiations however drag on slightly as the Federated Suns stall for time as they attempt to finish the Yvonne Steiner-Davion. The Nova Cats use this time to show the Federated Suns crews how to operate the Constrictor and the Federated Suns crews and engineers show the Nova Cats how to use an Avalon. The deal is done in early March and both vessels are sent to shipyards in their respective realms for full refits and checks. The Federated Suns wonder about retrofitting the Whirlwind with Rotary Autocannons and Screen Launchers creating a Block II version similar to their recently deployed Congress-class Frigates while the Nova Cats decide to completely retrofit the Avalon creating a completely new class.
Wolf’s Dragoon’s Security Compound
Harlech City, Outreach, Chaos March
14th January 3069
Just as they had promised the Federated Suns delivered the next completed Davion Block III-class Destroyer originally named the FSS Arthur Steiner-Davion, after Victor’s fallen brother, the Dragoons welcome the vessel into their own depleted military and rename the vessel Wolf Pack in reverence to their founders Jamie and Joshua Wolf and their origins. As the Davion’s crew show the Dragoons how to operate the vessel a Stealth and a Templar OmniMech are found in the cargo bay, the two designs exclusive to the Federated Suns are further gifts from House Davion. In acknowledgement of the Federated Suns honouring of the Wolf’s Dragoons General Maeve Wolf allows Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner, who had handed over the vessel, to land on Outreach and become the first outsider on Outreach since the closing of the world by the Dragoons.
On Outreach Reinhart finds the Dragoons are struggling to rebuild their world still shattered from the riots that destroyed the Inner Sphere's mercenary hub. He also finds the Dragoons still struggling to regain their former strength following their drive to help the AMC and ComStar destroy the Word of Blake. As Marshal of Armies Reinhart negotiates with Maeve offering the Dragoons further supplies and aid in exchange for the Dragoons deepening their relationship with General Motors/Blackwell Industries of New Valencia. This deal would have the Dragoons help the Federated Suns build limited amounts of Clan designs on the world and champion the development of a Battle Armour production plant on the world. With help from the Federated Suns the Dragoons would be able to rebuild Outreach quicker and Maeve soon agrees to the terms this also furthers the Federated Suns and Wolf‘s Dragoons rekindling their previous relationship terms enjoyed during the Fourth Succession War.
Packing up what little belongings he had carried with him Reinhart Steiner looked out over the shattered landscape of Outreach as the doors behind him opened, he immediately recognized the perfume strong and sweet as it filled the room. “Welcome to Outreach, Miss McCarron†Reinhart said turning looking at the younger woman. When he had captured her she had been an angry woman unwilling to accept that she was no longer in a position of command or that she may never pilot a Mech again in combat. Now she was still angry but it was an anger that was not directed at Reinhart or the Federated Suns, instead on that was directed at what had happened to the Armoured Cavalry Regiments still based in the Capellan Confederation. “I was not sure if you would come down planet?†He asked openly, Faith had originally intended to remain on the WarShip until a JumpShip arrived to take them both away and back to the Federated Suns.
“Where you go I go Reinhart.†She said smiling “also I wanted to see what had happened to the Dragoons.†She said moving to the windows looking out over Harlech City a tear ran down her cheek as she looked at the devastation the Dragoons were still struggling to repair. “You know during the War of ‘39 the Federated Suns did this to the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry’s base world to teach them not to strike into the Federated Suns and ever since they have never struck back.â€
“I was aware.†Reinhart said although the War of ‘39 was before the beginning of his military career he had heard of the Federated Suns actions to stop the Cavalry’s deep strike into their territory, where they had gone as deep as Kathil before stopping. An entire regiment of the Armoured Cavalry had been destroyed as had the McCarron’s factory. Their factory that they had built themselves with money gained through contract and blood had only been rebuilt with help from Sun-Tzu Liao, and the Capellan Chancellor had taken his time with the rebuilding making sure the Cavalry knew their place, and making it clear that now it was a Capellan factory.
“We’ve been scared into hiding away just like the Capellan Dogs we are in bed with.†She said painting the worse image in Reinhart’s head he’d ever thought up.
“I have made a decision.†Reinhart said however Faith turned back to him a smile on her face.
“So have I.†She said
“Please†he said interested in what she had to say, since rarely did she ask of anything or want to do anything.
“No, no, you first, you spoke first after all.†She said smiling she had Reinhart there and what he had to say could affect her decision so he nodded and began to speak.
“I have decided to release you from AFFS custody and allow you to have your freedom back. I have arranged with the Dragoons to have you and your OmniMech transported anywhere you wish. You can return to the Armoured Cavalry or go to Galatea and join another Merc unit, the Dragoons may even offer you a job.†He said noticing her reaction he had expected her to be happy but her facial expression was one of surprise and hurt. “What is wrong?†He asked softly moving closer.
“I thought you liked having me around.†She said quietly, she almost sounded afraid.
“I do, but you are not my prisoner anymore, I’m not sure if I ever thought you as one. You deserve to have a life of your own to follow the path that is laid before you and to see your family once more.†He said Faith had met several McCarrons in the Federated Suns all several generations removed from the line based in the Capellan Confederation and all had welcomed her with open arms however she deserved to be able to join her family if that was what she wanted.
“What if I chose another path?â€
“Like what? The SLDF? I’m sure I could pull some strings get Morgan to skip your basic training…†He said chuckling at the thought of a person with the rank of Major following basic training for anything.
“No†she said quickly dismissing that idea “the SLDF and I are likely incompatible, I was thinking of staying with you and returning to the Federated Suns.†She said looking at Reinhart who was floored by the idea, under no circumstance had he expected such a move although he enjoyed her company he knew several members of the High Command and general military hated the idea of a former member of the Liao military on any Federated Suns territory let alone New Avalon.
“Forgive me for asking, but why? Many within the Federated Sun still do trust you and may never, and the chances of you ever piloting a Mech in combat again are small, worse if you do ever fight again it could be against the Capellan Confederation, against the Armoured Cavalry. Could you do that?â€
“I don’t know†Faith said truthfully after a moments thought “all I know is that away from the Cavalry I have been more alive and free than I ever have and I have seen things and met people that I have begun to like maybe even love. I want to explore that side of my life more and I am willing to give up on being a MechWarrior to do so.†She said looking straight into Reinhart’s eyes he knew what she was speaking about, he had seen her looking at him and felt himself look at her several times. He did not know if he could ever convince the people of the Federated Suns to trust her but he wanted to know if he could love her. Instead of speaking Reinhart grabbed Faith and spun her around laughing, it would be a rocky road but one they would walk together, something he could live with. “I take it you like this idea?†She asked as he continued to hold her aloft.
“I will contact the First Prince as soon as possible to confirm the plan.†He said Faith leaned down and kissed his forehead.
“I like that plan.†She whispered as Reinhart continued to hold her aloft turning slowly both having eyes for each other alone. “but let’s wait a little while, enjoy this moment†she said Reinhart was already ahead of her and heading for the bedroom.
Office of the First Prince, Fox’s Den
Davion Mountain Range, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th January 3069
With the Inner Sphere at general peace following the Federated Suns securing of Ares from the Capellan Confederation First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion rarely used his office in the Fox’s Den normally waiting for the report to come to him via Reinhart Steiner of one of his Field Marshals. Today however was a special day and Victor wanted to proceed over it himself. There was a knock at the door “enter†he called raising from his position behind the desk in walked Major Ross McKinnon commander of the Fox’s Teeth. The Major snapped to a salute exactly two steps from the desk Victor looked at him for a moment then followed the salute himself “at ease Major, take a seat.†he said indicating for Ross to take a seat the Major nodded and sat down “how’s thing’s been Major?â€
“Good, sire†Ross said sharply.
“Family life treating you well?â€
“Affirmative, sire†he said formally then looked away briefly “being a husband and father changes ones outlook on life quite dramatically. But I wouldn’t have it any other way having Rachel and Canin in my life is the greatest thing I have ever experienced.â€
“I can agree with that statement, children and family are one of the most joyous things a man can experience.†Victor said looking at the papers on the desk “Major, can you remember the last time you were in the Fox’s Den with me?â€
“25th December 3058, when you informed me of the mission to what we knew as the Tortuga Dominions, which is now the Nova Cat’s Den.†Ross said instantly remembering the mission brief as if it was yesterday find out what the Tortuga Fusiliers are up to and why no-one has heard a word out of them. “It’s been eleven long years, sir, the mission changed my life, sire.†He added quietly thinking that this was the First Prince’s way of saying soon you will be on another mission like that. “You have orders for me? Sir.†Ross asked quietly.
“Sort of.†Victor said, Ross felt a sense of dread the First Prince only broke the chain of command if it was a big thing that was going down “here, open this.†Victor said holding out an envelope. Ross took the envelope and opened it out fell the rank insignia of a full Colonel two ranks above Ross’ own. “As of this date and time you Ross McKinnon are a Colonel in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.†Victor said raising to his feet “your new assignment is to form a special operations command attached to the Fox’s Den and answerable to myself and the Marshal of Armies alone, your people will do jobs that are too messy for the regular army and too big for the DMI.â€
“I’m off operations?†Ross asked slowly raising to his feet he wouldn‘t miss field rations or long patrols but Rachel would be back to operations as soon as Canin was old enough to be looked after by a nanny or family, they could be separated for months.
“For the most part†Victor said “I have decreed that you will form this unit yourself and choose your own staff and resources. Anything that you think you need comes to me and I get it, that includes equipment, staff, an executive officer, some auxiliary units etc you get the idea.†Victor said Ross got the idea alright this meant Ross could move Rachel into the command structure of this new department, have the Fox’s Teeth attached and if he needed to go on an operation or two then what would be the harm? “Any questions?â€
“What about the Fox’s Teeth?â€
“They are due to be folded back into the Regular Army other than the troops you need.†Victor said gravely he hated to see the Fox’s Teeth go but without a suitable commander the unit was done.
“Sire, the Fox’s Teeth can read each other’s moves and they are a name feared throughout the Inner Sphere, history dating to the Star League, for the trouble they can cause it would be a shame to break them up. And it would take one weapon out of your hands.â€
“Without a commander they can’t be kept on the books as an independent outfit, they were never supposed to be one in the first place.â€
“What about my cousin? He’s a Leftenant in the Twentieth Avalon Hussars David McKinnon. He’s had a little trouble fitting into the Regular army but I think given the tools and a little leeway in how he does his job he could be a great officer. I can keep him in check if the Fox’s Teeth are assigned under my command.†Ross promised David was a true wildcard and not half the MechWarrior he could be but with the right incentive and guidance Ross was sure he could be moulded to become one of the AFFS best officers.
“You wouldn’t have a problem with sending him to his death?†Victor asked it was a question that needed to be asked, for every officer there came a point where they had to order troops to their deaths.
“No, sir, knowing David he’d find a way out of any situation we sent him into just to annoy us.†David said smiling “I can handle it and I believe he can as well.â€
“Fine cut the orders and Captain David McKinnon will command the Fox’s Teeth as soon as is applicable.†Victor said he trusted Ross that putting his cousin in such a position would not be a problem, only time would tell. “Now Colonel there is one last piece of business for us to cover.†Victor said rounding the table standing just in front of Ross “I do not know if you’ve heard Marshal Redburn commander of the Kathil Uhlans and the Prince’s Champion has chosen to stand down as a combat officer, he will remain as an advisor on New Avalon but for all purposes he will be retiring.â€
“I’d heard, sire, you don’t want me to command the Uhlans as well?†He asked Ross relished the idea but perhaps that was a bit too much to ask for.
“Neg†Victor answered with a small smile, Ross was surely not that confident of his abilities? “However, I would like you to consider filling the post of Prince’s Champion.†Victor said Ross was floored normally such a post went to one of the Davion family or one of the most senior Field Marshals not a Colonel from a working family.
“Sire, you honour me, but are you sure I am the right person?â€
“Let my lay it to you in simple terms, Colonel.†Victor said leaning against the table stressing Ross’ new rank and position. “I need an officer that has shown initiative, shown they can make the best of situations and has the best for House Davion and the Federated Suns at heart. Now your rank may be a little problem for some of the RCT commanders but no-one can question your loyalty or skill, I believe you can do this, do you?â€
“Aye, sir, I’d relish the challenge and it would be an honour.â€
“Glad to hear it†Victor said shaking Ross’ hand “there’s an office at the end of the corridor it’s yours there is about a week’s worth of paper work on the desk should get you started.†Victor said walking back round the desk he noticed Ross’ pained look on his face. “Welcome to the big leagues Colonel.†Victor said releasing Ross’ hand smiling broadly the Colonel saluted and retreated from the office head held high.
-
Bad News, Zlatoust, Kazanka, Enif
Tabayama Prefecture, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
30th January 3069
Able to keep their anger under control for two years following the White Cloud’s destruction in a dishonourable trick the Snow Ravens now fully integrated into the Outworlds Alliance launch a joint offensive with the Outworlds Alliance into the Draconis Combine following the raid for Corax OmniFighters which ended with civilian casualties. For the first wave the Snow Ravens choose the four worlds closest to the Outworlds Alliance and the Periphery territories held by the Snow Ravens.
Of the first four worlds targeted only the Bad News system offers significant resistance. At the zenith point there are three Draconis Combine WarShips and on the planet are the Nineteenth Galedon Regulars. At the Jump Point a great battle erupted between the three Draconis Combine WarShips and an equal amount of Snow Raven vessels while a Cluster’s worth of Alpha Galaxy Snow Raven Warriors burned to the planet with DropShips. After less than half an hour the three Draconis Combine vessels led by the Kyushu-class Frigate Luthien were burning their DCMS crew out fought by the Snow Ravens superior skills and vessels the Snow Raven vessels were left relatively intact except for the Blizzard, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser, which although operational was so badly damaged that after four hours of trying to save the vessel the Snow Ravens abandoned the vessel setting off scuttle charges near the main magazines blowing the vessel to pieces. On the ground the Ninth Raven Strike Cluster tore into the Nineteenth Galedon Rangers giving the DCMS ground troops no chance to surrender. For the Nineteenth they asked for no surrender and fought to the last man the defeated warriors committing seppeku, taking their own lives, before Raven Elementals could prise open the cockpits and take them prisoner - or more likely kill them.
Across the Draconis Combine the Coordinator Hohiro Kurita was soon informed of the attacks and the loss of all three vessels the Draconis Combine had sent to resist a Snow Raven attack. Hohiro Kurita acted quickly sending several more nearby regiments to counter the Ravens, two more WarShips and contacting the Star League to ask for assistance resisting further Snow Raven attacks as his nation would need everything they could get to resist the WarShip heavy Snow Raven Clan if they launched a full invasion of Combine claimed territory.
During these opening Battles the Snow Raven and Outworlds Alliance commanders refer to their forces as the Raven Alliance, a name the Inner Sphere will soon begin to recognise as the name for the combined forces of Clan Snow Raven and the Outworlds Alliance. Inside the Outworlds Alliance the two cultures are kept mostly separate with Outworlds politicians looking after their own people however slowly the Ravens are taking over more and more territory and enclaves in the Alliance as more and more of their civilians arrive from the Clan Homeworlds. In Clan Space the Snow Ravens retain their name however in the Inner Sphere and Periphery the Snow Ravens almost exclusively use the Raven Alliance name. Also as an olive branch to the Outworlds Alliance people the Snow Ravens accept President Mitchell Avellar and the Avellar family as honorary Snow Ravens and honour him by creating a sibko using his DNA. Many of the Outworlds Alliance people worry that the Snow Ravens will bring doom on them like the other invading Clans have brought on the worlds they have invaded however others point to the Ghost Bear Dominion and the Nova Cat’s Den two cultures blossoming under Clan rule.
Coventry World Council, Coventry
Alarion Province, Lyran Alliance
14th February 3069
Following many years of troubles which included the Assassination of the Duke, a Clan Wolf Incursion, trouble with Clan Jade Falcon and the break up of the Free Worlds League paranoia overtakes the people of Coventry and the world council makes the decision to build their own version of the System-Defence-System (SDS) seen around Terra in the hay day of the Star League. This Project will include the construction of a dozen Battlesat SDS Laser stations, which could destroy DropShips with single shots or destroy targets on the ground, two Capitol System-Defence-Stations in orbit around the planet and an enhancement to the defensive capabilities of both Zenith and Nadir Jump-Point Olympus-class Recharge Stations.
Hearing of this planetary decision the Lyran Alliance Admiralty contact Clan Wolf (in-Exile) and ask them if they would be interested in getting involved in this project as well for some concessions further down the line. Khan Phelan Kell agrees that his Wolves would be interested in such a project. With Clan Wolf (in-Exile)’s support the LAAF Admiralty commander Admiral Michael Washington travels to Coventry to address the world council which had taken this decision. There he pledges that the LAAF will fully support the project and that the two orbital stations planned will be upgraded to Bastion-class making way for the Lyran Alliance to build a Shipyard in the system at a later date. He also pledges that 90% of the materials needed will come from Coventry and the surrounding Alarion Province providing the area with a massive influx of jobs for the next decade.
MRBC Hiring Halls
Galatea City, Galatea
Freedom Theatre, Lyran Alliance
21st February 3069
The whole of Galatea begin to worry as the Heart of Blake Mercenary unit arrives on Galatea to register with the MRBC and look for a contract, the unit has almost purely Word of Blake originating equipment and its DropShips bear marks of their flight from Mars just before the world was freed from Word of Blake domination by ComStar and the AMC.
The Heart of Blake claim they are former members of the Word of Blake who have abandoned the Word of Blake to forge ahead alone as mercenary warriors. The MRBC agree hire onto the depleted MRBC books, following so many mercenary losses on Outreach and in the Chaos March to Word of Blake forces or the people fighting them. The MRBC rate the Heart of Blake with a pitiful low Dragoon rating despite their equipment levels and claimed experience levels this represents their origins.
Initially unable to find a contract worth taking the Heart of Blake sells their Assault Triumph and nearly a Battalion’s worth of Equipment to various mercenary units on Galatea to make some capital before accepting a contract with Marshal Jeremy Brett co-leader of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby in the former Free Worlds League. Brett who has no problem with people who have turned against the Word of Blake hires them with a pay level one Dragoon level higher than the MRBC rating which is still crap but better than nothing. With that the Heart of Blake leave Galatea for the periphery bound former Free Worlds League state much to the pleasure of the people of Galatea.
-
HPG Compound
Tikonov, Capellan Confederation Held
Capellan March, Federated Suns
1st March 3069
For the first time in five years the Word of Blake techs at the HPG Compound on Tikonov take the array offline for routine maintenance required to keep the array operation. Although angry at the array being offline with Tikonov an isolated world held in the Federated Suns Sun-Tzu Liao can do little to stop Word of Blake performing required maintenance, the Word of Blake for their part promise the array will be offline for a maximum of four weeks.
Wolf’s Dragoons Command Compound
Outreach, Chaos March
2nd March 3069
A Capellan messenger lands on the Dragoon’s homeworld and travels directly to the command compounds with an offer to General Maeve Wolf. The Dragoons are offered a short term contract of up to six months with the possible increases for the use of a Dragoon WarShip and a regiment of troops that will be expected to fight offensively and in counter insurgency warfare once the target has been secured. As payment the Capellans offer the Dragoons in excess of an entire regiment worth of BattleMechs and Battle Armour.
General Maeve Wolf tells the messenger that she will think the offer over. On the 15th March WolfNet operatives discover the Capellans plan to attack Ares first destroying the Federated Suns WarShips in system then the planet’s garrison force. With the Federated Suns recent generosity to the Dragoons still over them and the Capellans known policy of Company Store methods with Mercenary forces Maeve Wolf decides to reject the Capellan offer instead informing her WolfNet operatives to inform the Federated Suns that they have information they may be interested in. On the 22nd March a Davion Conquistador-class DropShip is dropped into the system at a Pirate point known only to the Dragoons and the Federated Suns the vessel is full of supplies for the Dragoons and both vessel and supplies are for the Dragoons. The Dragoons via WolfNet operatives on New Avalon inform the Federated Suns of the Capellans plans.
Cyclops, Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser
Unexplored Deep Periphery System
96 Light-years Core-ward Cirincus Federation
12th March 3069
It was the early evening on the space station, although day and night were the same in space the people held onto the illusion of what time it was just to keep themselves right. It had been quiet recently on board, everyone knew what was expected of them and no-one had come looking for trouble in the system recently so they’d been able to relax. The command staff led by Queen Jennifer Briton II herself had been at a meal in the primary gravity deck enjoying their night while other people took care of the business end of the station.
While the Queen was away she’d left her eighteen year-old daughter Gabriella in charge of the command deck. One thing Gabriella hated more than anything was duty in the command deck she dearly loved her mother and her life on Cyclops but she was an aerospace fighter pilot and the command deck was just a little bit too foreign from her EST-R3 Eisensturm Aerospace Fighter, something her mother had gained as a present for Gabriella’s eighteenth birthday, a top of the line aerospace fighter it formed the lead squadron of the station’s defences and Gabriella was the lead pilot. This was just babysitting duty but her mother said it was important for her to learn command and learn how the station operated for when she was gone. Jennifer Briton II was in her late forties and Gabriella knew of space farers living into their early hundreds away from the ills of planetary life. Which meant Gabriella would have sixty years or more to learn command and about the station, something she was very happy with, unlike many pirate groups the controllers of Cyclops got on and enjoyed working together, it was the stability brought by the station and by the non-aggression pact everyone signed before setting foot on the station which meant most of the time they didn’t have to act like pirates, they could live like regular people.
Standing at the forward view ports of what was formerly the bridge of the vessel when it was a WarShip and now acted as their flight control tower of their space station. Gabriella looked out at the various pirate DropShips and a squadron of the station’s fighters challenging any who got away from their markers or made any hostile moves or threats in Cyclops controlled space. The doors opened behind Gabriella but she did not turn away from the view of space, instead she was focused on where she longed to be back in her fighter.
“Commander, a moment†it was her wingman Ana Cyrus one of the best pilots in their squadron and someone Gabriella trusted her life to completely.
“What is it?†Gabriella asked trying hard not to sound too bored.
“It’s your mother…†Ana said quietly so no others in the room could hear, Gabriella immediately spun on the spot “…she’s been killed, in a brawl between pirate commanders. To begin with security was in charge but spun out of control, she was found after the chaos dead on the deck, stabbed in the back.†Gabriella spun away as a tear began to run down her cheek, her mother dead and her barely a week into her eighteenth year.
“What are the others saying about it?†Although loosing her mother was a tragedy loosing control of Cyclops would be a betrayal of her entire family line from Mad Dog himself.
“Travis is claiming that he needs to command until an investigation can be completed.†Ana said naming the former Clan Smoke Jaguar Elemental warrior who had joined up following the destruction of his clan at the hands of the SLDF and quickly become head of security.
“I think not.†Gabriella said quietly turning back to face Ana the looking over her wingman’s shoulder “Controller Roberts, lock the door after I leave, allow no other to enter other than me or my mother.†She said heading to the main doors over her shoulder she heard the controller acknowledge.
“Your mother is dead, trust me on this.†Ana said once the doors were sealed behind them.
“I trust you with my life, as hard as that is for a pirate.†She said equally quietly “they cannot know my mother is dead, I must end Travis challenge before more people hear of my mother’s passing. Assemble the squadron and anyone you know we can count on for support.†Gabriella said quietly heading down the corridor pulling herself along in the zero gravity environment.
“Where are you going?â€
“To claim my mother’s remains and to kill a pretender.†Gabriella answered disappearing down the corridor heading for the main bar on the station, The Cosmos. Situated on one of the station’s largest gravity decks it would make things easier. Entering she saw Travis in the centre of a group of people all were cheering and toasting, in the far corner a smaller group made up of Jennifer Briton’s most fanatical supporters were gathered. Gabriella first moved to them, she noticed they were all bruised but ready to fight, all were surrounding her mother’s corpse. Gabriella suppressed a tear with a smile “I thank you.†She said to each of them in turn then a quieter “thank you†to her mother for preparing her for this moment. She then turned to Travis’ group who had by now noticed her entrance and the growing number of aerospace fighter pilots and ground-crews, all supporters of Gabriella. Around Travis a large group of Security/Marines had gathered ready to fight if need be. “Travis, I call you out.†Gabriella said standing apart from her group.
“A Trial of Position?†Travis asked moving forward apart from the group he was a mountain of a man, all muscle, a true challenge to anyone in a fight.
“If you like, you have challenged my families right to rule correct?â€
“Aff, your mother lies dead and you are too young and weak to rule this station, it needs a firm hand.†He said pounding one fist into the other.
“And you believe you are this strong hand?â€
“Aff, I am the strongest hand.â€
“Then I challenge you, if you defeat me make sure to kill me for I will never serve you. This station has been in my family for generations, we created it and we will continue to rule here.â€
“We shall see. Augmented or un-augmented?†He enquired Gabriella smiled Travis was still thinking like a Clanner, she could use it against him.
“Whatever†she said feigning interest in his ritual combat ways.
“Un-augmented then we will fight with what we have, I wish to crush the air from your lungs with my own fists.â€
“Whatever†she said “can we get this over with?†He nodded and they moved to an open area of the room.
“May the best warrior win.â€
“Whatever†she said for a third time, she could see him beginning to loose his temper.
“Seyla!†He shouted the Clan word as he broke into a charge towards Gabriella, she in turn dropped to one knee and withdrew a small hold-out pistol from the small of her back. In one fluid motion she flicked the safety and fired three shots into the massive Elemental warrior, he seemed to absorb the first two shots but the third brought him down, rolling out of the way Gabriella watched as he crashed into the deck. Knowing this wouldn’t necessarily kill him outright she flipped to her feet and moved over to him as the stunned Travis rolled over.
“We said un--augmented, you have violated this trial†he complained
“I said whatever, and this isn’t a trial, it’s a bar-brawl. The same type of fight that killed my mother and you.†Gabriella said firing two more shots into the Elemental’s head killing him outright. Without though she ejected the clip and loaded another turning to the Marines who were stunned looking at their dead commander. “Anyone else?†No-one spoke up “good, now clear up this bar, honour my mother and get the hell out of here.†She said no-one moved “move, or you’ll end like this mess!†She shouted everyone began moving in the room several marines moved over to remove Travis’ body “leave him†she ordered none of the troopers said anything instead they quickly followed the others out of the room leaving her alone in the bar with the dead Elemental at her feet. Gabriella sat down and picked up a bottle of Northwind-branded Scotch, the proper stuff, pouring herself a finger glass of the drink she toasted her mother and downed it in a single shot. Over the next couple of days there were three more challenges to her authority all of which Gabriella dealt with herself and in equally brutal forms setting herself up securely as the next leader of the Cyclops station maintaining the Briton family hold over their legacy.
Throne Room
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
28th March 3069
At a private ceremony attended by only a few of the most trusted advisors of the Capellan Confederation and a couple of Magistracy of Canopus advisers Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao and Magestix Naomi Centrella marry on the Capellan capitol world. Sun-Tzu and Naomi announce that their two nations will for now remain separately governed.
As a wedding move and copying a move made by Prince Hanse Davion, of the Federated Suns, forty years before Sun-Tzu gives Naomi a present by informing her that at this very moment Capellan troops were landing on Ares and had driven off the Federated Suns forces invading their realm. The Capellan forces that Sun-Tzu speaks of, which include a Magistracy Regiment, find not a single Federated Suns solider on Ares or in the system. Sun-Tzu announces to the entire Capellan nation that their brave forces drove off the Federated Suns troops with their strength and that the Federated Suns was scared of the Capellan advance.
Throne Room
Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City), Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
31st March 3069
Sitting on his throne with new wife Naomi Centrella-Liao Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao leader of the Capellan Confederation looked down at the Word of Blake Precentor who stood in front of him. The Tikonov HPG had only just come back on-line and none of his advisors controlling the planet had been allowed to speak with their Chancellor making Sun-Tzu more than a little unhappy. “Precentor I would like to know why I have not been allowed to speak to my people on Tikonov? And why the HPG took three days longer to come back online.â€
“Chancellor, these things take time, even the Word of Blake could not keep full contact with the world. There was no way to foresee what happened during the time of Blackout on Tikonov.â€
“You did not answer the Chancellor’s questions†Naomi said stepping down from her place beside the throne, Sun-Tzu smiled watching her move in her long skin tight dress move down to the Precentor’s level. Unlike her predecessor, Isis Marik, Naomi was not afraid to take control of a situation and Sun-Tzu loved watching her work. “Answer the questions. Why are our advisors not being allowed to use the HPG and why did it take longer than anticipated to bring back online?†She asked moving her finger down the man’s jaw-line, Sun-Tzu could see the man had eyes only for Naomi and was mesmerised anything he had prepared had gone out the window.
“They are not being allowed to speak because they are in prison.†Sun-Tzu snapped his eyes away from Naomi onto the Precentor “And the work took longer because our work crews did not complete the work, ComStar did.†He said rapidly seeing Sun-Tzu move, Naomi glanced at her husband then back to the Word of Blake Precentor.
“ComStar? They moved against you on a Capellan world?â€
“No, they were requested to take control by the rulers of the world.â€
“What rulers? I will have them shot for the impertinence, no-one take’s a Capellan world from its Chancellor.â€
“That’s the problem, Tikonov is no longer a Capellan World.â€
“Tell us the rest.†Sun-Tzu said warily, he knew taking Ares had been too easy.
“House Davion dropped the entire Crucis Lancers Brigade onto the world along with what we believe to be the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment. The eight Federated Suns Regimental Combat Teams annihilated the Third and Fifth McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry and the Word of Blake’s Sixteenth Division. According to reports the Seventh Crucis Lancers RCT were destroyed in the fighting however the Federated Suns plan to rebuild it and create a Ninth Regiment out of the salvage they have gained from Tikonov and the factories on the world. Also it appears that Colonel Paul Bowman, of the Wild Geese Regiment has taken a step back from Wild Geese operations and rejoined his family. It would appear Tikonov has a new Duke.†The Precentor said swallowing heavily, a new young military minded leader, who had fought for the Federated Suns for years, on Tikonov would surely turn the world completely against the Capellan Confederation probably permanently.
“What of the Sundermann Rhys that was placed in the system to guard against such an attack?†Naomi demanded grabbing the man around the throat her nails digging into his skin.
“The Feng Huang Cruiser in the system was overpowered by a pair of Federated Suns WarShips, according to the rumour the credit for the kill has gone to the Fox-class Corvette FSS Fox.†Sun Tzu wanted to scream as he listened to the Precentor two Regiments and a WarShip all destroyed, what a sorry state of affairs they were in, there was no direct way to hit back at the Federated Suns either not with the ever growing Federated Suns WarShip fleet guarding their borders like hawks ready to pounce.
“Not the best present ever.†Sun-Tzu said quietly as Naomi closed her hand around the man’s throat her nails penetrating the Word of Blake Precentor’s throat covering herself and the white Word of Blake uniform in red blood the man fought for breath. Naomi just held him there watching him die then dropped him to the ground. “What a mess.†Sun-Tzu said looking at her as she looked down at the dead man.
“But it did make me feel better, now what?†She said her voice as cold as any true Capellan's Sun-Tzu had ever heard
“We need to clean this up then find the leak, a clear out of the Maskirovka for a start.†Sun-Tzu said condemning at least a dozen operatives to their deaths with a casual thought.
“No, what I mean is what about the Federated Suns? How will we enact our revenge on them?â€
“In due time, for now we wait, our WarShip fleet has been dangerously depleted because of them we will rebuild before we strike again.†Sun-Tzu said standing up walking out of the room, Naomi stood there not knowing what she was more disgusted by the dead body on the floor or her husband’s reaction, she would find a way to pay the Federated Suns back for this outrage.
-
Pondicherry, Sulanheer
Tabayama Prefecture, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
7th April 3069
Following their blinding successes in the first wave the Snow Ravens launch a series of attacks on the Draconis Combine striking several worlds. By now however the Draconis Combine has reinforced all nearby worlds and turned Tabayama itself into an armed camp the Snow Ravens are only able to secure two worlds and even then it is at a heavy cost with the Ravens and their Outworlds Alliance allies losing nearly the whole of the Fifth Raven Stoop Cluster and the Beta Sohlama Cluster both of the newly arrived Beta Galaxy and the Second Long Road Armour Battalion of the Outworlds Alliance military.
Most of these losses are incurred on the first and second attempts at taking the Tabayama system, on the second attempt the Raven WarShips are confronted by two of the Draconis Combine’s Tatsumaki-class Destroyers which cause heavy damage to the Spur, a Lola-class Destroyer. With losses mounting and more of their civilians from Clan Space arriving the Snow Ravens decide that their victories thus far are enough and cease their attacks.
Another factor of these battles is new technologies debuted by the Draconis Combine including three new types of Particle Projection Cannons, the light, heavy and snub-nosed weapons systems all of which are variations of the standard PPC and the Void Battle Armour suit a new type of Medium-class Battle Armour capable of being modified quickly to accommodate different sizes of trooper and utilising a Battle Armour sized PPC.
Department of Military Intelligence Car-Park
Mount Davion, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th April 3069
Following a long day at the office reading information on Capellan raids on the Capellan March and the recently ended Draconis Combine/Snow Raven Conflict, along with data concerning the new weapons debuted during this fight, Field Marshal Robert Christian McCarthy Head of the Federated Suns DMI finishes for the day and heads for his hover car parked roughly a kilometre down the mountain at the foot of Mount Davion. Following a shuttle ride to his vehicle Robert climbs into his vehicle only to be instantly killed as the vehicle and several around it explode in a perfectly timed explosion. Hours later the Capellan sponsored/Kali Liao led Thugee Cult claim responsibility for the attack in retaliation for the Federated Suns recent capture of Tikonov. The Federated Suns DMI and MIIO, the civilian counterpart to DMI, begin a crackdown on all crime and dangerous organisations on New Avalon.
Fox’s Teeth Base camp, Ziliang
Capellan March, Federated Suns
30th April 3069
Following nearly a month of raids the Fox’s Teeth under the command of newly promoted Captain David McKinnon rested on the world of Ziliang right on the border of Capellan Confederation space near the St Ives Compact. The Fox’s Teeth had continued to show the last few weeks that although they had lost their commander and one of their most important warriors and leaders that they still had a strong, dedicated bunch of warriors. For this rearming process they had been given a new set of equipment and Captain David McKinnon was getting used to his newly arrived Black Knight, a Mech that had recently been modified with Clan Technology and was a very dangerous machine in the right hands and one certainly was in David's opinion. He‘d been surprised when he‘d been plucked from the Twentieth Avalon Hussars and given a promotion and even more surprised when he‘d heard he‘d been nominated by his cousin, Ross, David had never gotten on greatly with the rest of the McKinnons or with the AFFS always ready to go it alone and now he commanded one of the most famous companies in Inner Sphere.
Newly returned from a short patrol and walking over the tarmac in nothing more than his shorts and t-shirt, David looked out and saw something strange on the horizon, an expanding line of BattleMechs. Raising a pair of binoculars to his eyes, ‘Capellans!’ David dropped the binoculars to the ground shattering the glass as he rose a radio to his mouth “McKinnon to tower get the lead out, we have Capellans incoming south-by-south-east, count at least a Battalion.†He said as he began running to his Mech at that very moment the compound tower exploded as it was hit by an artillery round “Hell!†David shouted running into the Mechbay raising the radio again “Menace Lance hit their left flank then run like hell to Fox Cove, have things ready by the time the Cappies arrive or your dead†he said looking at the other eight Mechs waiting in their alcoves “the rest of you mount up we’re heading for the Beta-site to hook up with the Battle Armour then we’re going to kick some Capellan ass.†He said as a tech threw a coolant vest over his neck the liquid was cold to his skin bringing up goose bumps but he concentrated on giving out orders “all base personnel this is Captain David McKinnon, a Capellan raiding force has arrived and is threatening this base we cannot hold them report to the DropShips immediately and prepare for immediate evacuation.†He said it was a hard thing to admit defeat but there was no-way the Fox’s Teeth could take a Battalion’s worth of Capellans, not in a fair fight anyway which was why the Fox’s Teeth had been created to circumvent fair fights.
“Your Mech’s hot sir, give them hell!†the tech said as a cradle life quickly rose to the height of the Black Knight’s cockpit.
“That’s a promise just make sure you get to the DropShip, I don’t want to break in another tech.†He said smirking as he climbed into the cockpit quoting the old joke that MechWarriors treated their techs like domesticated animals all the time.
“Understood, sir, as soon as you’re gone we are out of here.†He said as the cockpit hatch sealed behind him. David quickly buckled into the seat and pulled the neurolhelmet over his head, the neurolhelmet translated his own sense of balance to the ten metre tall, seventy-five ton, Black Knight that was all but ready for his control waiting only the pilot lock-out controls to give him full control over weapons and movement. Some warriors did elaborate movements with the Mechs arm controls, number codes or code words David did a six word phrase that was close to his own heart “Pilot code: I never expected to be here†he said into the helmet microphone after several moments the computer recognized his phrase and his voice and announced he now had full control over the Black Knight.
“Thrasher Lance form on me as soon as you’re ready, Jumping Jack Lance use your speed and jets to give the Cappies a thousand cuts.†He said handing out more orders to the remaining two lances on the sensors he could see that the Menace lance had destroyed two Mechs outright and another twelve were in pursuit, a full company against a lance of four. If the ruse in Fox’s Cove did not work he’d be down four Mechs and their pilots for sure, it would worth though this David was sure, he had to be for the sake of his men and his conscience.
An hour later Menace Lance had ran as far as it could four battered Mechs with four equally battered and tired MechWarriors were trapped in Fox Cove with over a Battalion of enemy Mechs approaching, the Capellans had smashed their firebase and carried on in pursuit of the Mechs. Subaltern Daniel Marshal moved his four Mechs into positions of cover that would be suitable for this operation. The Fox’s Teeth had trained in this Cove and in the surrounding area for several days and several places had been selected for cover and ambush set up hiding his own fifty ton Enforcer III behind a rock outcropping Daniel watched the other warriors move around into suitable positions at the same time he tracked the incoming Capellan forces counting them as they closed forty Mechs, ten-to-one odds they would have to be very careful and lucky to survive this one.
The minutes ticked past and finally the last of the Capellans were either in the Cove or at the mouth, in the perfect position. Daniel Marshal reached over and pressed two buttons detonating six of the largest type of command detonated mines shattering the ground around the mouth to the Cove and the rocks that lined the sides showering the four Capellan Mechs with over a thousand tons of rocks. If the warriors were lucky they would have been killed by the falling rocks, if not they would die slowly from asphyxiation buried under the rocks. The other Capellans turned to see their exit blocked “Now!†Daniel commanded breaking cover the other Mechs did the same with the Capellans weak rear armour exposed to them Menace Lance were under orders to fire two volleys, to hit as many Mechs as possible, which meant targeting multiple targets with every volley, and then get back into cover. With only two volleys the lance downed two Capellan Mechs before returning to their cover positions, the Capellans down six Mechs without a single kill of their own. The Capellans angry now rushed forward intent on attacking a dug in enemy whatever the cost.
Just as they turned and moved forward again however on every side a combination of Short and Long Range Missiles rained in on the Capellan Mechs. The Short range missiles were mainly filled with Inferno Munitions and exploded just before hitting the targets showering the Mechs with roaring inferno jelly forcing the Mechs to overheat and shutdown or roast their pilot alive. Several Capellan MechWarriors panicked and ejected straight into their napalm dying on instant contact with the napalm. While the Long Range Missiles were filled with multiple types of munitions including standard explosive, mines that explode when Mechs step on them known as Thunder LRMs and incendiary missiles which would set fire to the ground around the Mechs further raising their heat levels. All while this was going on the four battered Mechs of Menace Lance continued to fire on the stunned Capellan MechWarriors.
In the confusion caused by the trap at least a dozen Mechs were knocked out. All around the Cove strange looking Black painted Battle Armour suits were stepping clear of their hiding holes firing more missiles lasers into the mix, the Capellans were suddenly facing another twenty-plus Battle Armour and four BattleMechs and their Mech’s capabilities were rapidly deteriorating. Two MechWarriors panicked and attempted to escape using their Jump Jets to try and jump out only to find more Battle Armour on the ridge of the Cove both Mechs were quickly fallen. The rest of the battle ended quickly with the outnumbered, outgunned and out of position Capellans quickly gunned down, none of the Capellans surrendered and the Fox’s Teeth troops were not interested in prisoners. By the end of the battle forty Capellan MechWarriors, sixteen Battle Armour troopers and one Fox’s Teeth MechWarrior were dead on the battle field an impressive victory for the Fox’s Teeth.
It was also a deadly debut for the Hauberk Assault and Grenadier Assault Battle Armour systems, the Federated Suns two newest weapons of war. Unknown to anyone out with the Federated Suns High Command the Hauberk has actually been developed following the Federated Suns acquiring several Undine Battle Armour from Clan Diamond Shark. Finding the specialised underwater Undine was unsuitable for most operations Battle Armour would face on a daily basis the Federated Suns pulled the Undines apart and built the Hauberk around the data gained. Looking at the design there are some similarities between the designs. The Grenadier suits are purely Inner Sphere designed and built however they have one thing no other Inner Sphere suit has fully customisable weapon pods allowing them to change arm and torso mounted weapons between missions making the suit highly effective in many different situations.
Across the planet the rest of the Fox’s Teeth had successfully dropped another company worth of Capellan MechWarriors at the cost of only two of their own, linking up with another group of Battle Armour the Fox’s Teeth began to push back at the Capellans however upon hearing of the defeat of their other (larger) group and the sight a resurgent Fox’s Teeth was enough for the Capellans who began a lengthy fighting withdrawal returning to their DropShips before boosting off Ziliang without most of their equipment or MechWarriors dead or destroyed on the Federated Suns soil. The Fox’s Teeth would be down for months of refit following this battle but they had successfully beaten the odds and given the Federated Suns two very effective weapons of war.
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Conference Room Alpha, Gravity Deck
SLS Covenant (Covenant-class Cruiser)
Furillo System, Bolan Province, Lyran Alliance
1st May 3069
At a special press conference the media of the Inner Sphere and surrounding Periphery states sat at a special audience held by acting-Commanding General Archer Christifori commander of the Star League Defence Force until Morgan Hasek-Davion returned to the post in late June. “Ladies and Gentlemen, today I have two announcements.†Archer began, the one thing he disliked about the post of Commanding-General was dealing with the press and would be happy to pass it back to Morgan as soon as possible. “The first that as of this morning the First Sirian Lancer Brigade based on Sirius will be deployed to the Pleiades Cluster to stop the fighting, between Federated Suns and Taurian Concordat forces, that has plagued the region in recent months and years.†He said letting that sink in for a moment “the Sirian Lancers will show no favouritism to either the Federated Suns defenders or the Taurian aggressors they will stop the fighting and ensure that all parties can sit around a table and hammer out a peace. Anyone attacking the Star League forces will be dealt with harshly and swiftly.†He said turning to his next piece of business “secondly the Sirian Concordance and the Star League Protectorate Worlds will officially merge and come under a joint authority, at the next Whitting Conference the exact powers of this authority will be hammered out. Now if there are any questions?â€
“General, is it correct the Covenant is en-route to Tharkad and not Kittery as originally planned?â€
“Our destination has never officially been released to the press, Miss Chambers, and it has never changed. Although I can confirm that we are en-route to Tharkad and that I have a meeting with the Lyran Alliance Archon, Peter Steiner-Davion.â€
“Could you divulge the details of this meeting?â€
“Not at this time.†Archer said quietly, since the Archon didn’t even know yet he wasn‘t about to tell the Inner Sphere.
“Commanding-General, is it true that while you were on Thorin you got engaged?†One of the other news reporters asked Archer shot the man a cold gaze as Archer wondered, ‘how the hell had they heard about that? Wasn’t anything personnel anymore?’
“That is classified information and none of your business, Mr Keller.†Archer said turning back to the rest of the reporters.
“Sir, information suggests that you were engage to a Lyran officer is this true.†Another reporter asked Archer rolled his eyes and stepped back from the podium.
“If that is all, this briefing is over.†He said stepping back from the crowd and out a rear door, waiting outside the door was his fiancée Katya Chafee, formerly a Haptmann and intelligence officer of the Thorin Militia, and his sister Andrea Christifori. “I hate the press†he said quietly Andrea a newspaper writer herself gave him a look of hurt but he smiled back at her and Andrea broke into a smile of her own, Katya just enveloped him in an embrace, they had known this would happen just not so quickly. “When Morgan wants the job back he’s welcome to it.â€
“You’ll get used to it.†Katya said quietly whispering in his ear. Archer wasn’t so certain he wanted to get used to it, he hadn’t taken to the field in his Mech in over a year, hadn’t been one of the men on the ground making decisions in the fire of combat, it was something he was beginning to miss. Soon Morgan would take back the post of Commanding-General and perhaps Archer would find his unit a nice hot-spot somewhere he could be useful on the ground once more.
Gray’s Ghosts Base-camp
Hardisey’s Haven
Cirincus Federation
14th May 3069
In their first operation following accepting a contract with the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey the former Word of Blake personnel that formed the Heart of Blake Mercenary Force are tasked with halting the Cirincus Federation sponsored raids that had caused significant damage to the worlds controlled by the Duchy. The Heart of Blake commanded by the most senior of the former-Precentor’s David Hunter were given no direct orders about how they should stop the raids only that they had to be stopped. In the early morning of Hardisey’s Haven just over the Cirincus Federation Border the Heart of Blake dropped en masse on the Gray’s Ghosts Mercenary Company.
The Gray’s Ghosts had always come close to violating the rules of combat and sometimes took missions more akin to terrorists or pirates than mercenaries. Also they had only recently take up a contract with the Cirincus Federation, just before the start of the raids, making them a perfect target. Using surprise, superior firepower, numbers and training the Heart of Blake annihilate Gray’s Ghosts in less than thirty minutes of hard combat.
Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City)
Sian, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
28th May 3069
Following half a dozen assassinations by an agent known as “Tamroy†on the Capellan Capital the Capellan Chancellor hires the warrior known as the Bounty Hunter to hunt down and kill Tamroy giving the Bounty Hunter free-way on Sian to find the agent and kill them. The only information the Capellans can give the Bounty Hunter is that Tamroy utilises the Infiltrator Mk. II Battle Armour suit and appears to have an extensive support network on the Capellan Homeworld. In retaliation for the hiring of the Bounty Hunter being involved Tamroy shows that this infamous warrior’s involvement does not bother them by assassinating Sang-iang-jun Talon Zahn the Chancellor’s primary military advisor before once again disappearing from sight. The Bounty Hunter begins tearing Sian apart in an attempt to find and eliminate this elusive assassin.
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McEvens Residence
Fronc, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
9th June 3069
Following months of negotiations Detroit is finally added to Fronc Reaches Charter with some concessions, Thirty percent of the BattleMech factories produce is to be sold to the Magistracy of Canopus and another ten percent to the Taurian Concordat and the Magistracy retains the right to place troops on Detroit if the Fronc Reaches is unable to defend the factory or the people of Detroit.
On the Fronc Reaches capital, Fronc, Erde Centrella and Prince-Marshal Dirk Evans marry at McEvens Private Estate, during celebrations Dirk recognizing Erde’s daughter, Emma, as his own for the first time as his own and recognises her as the heir to the Fronc Reaches leadership. Within the Reaches there is some anger that Dirk has proclaimed his family as the only rightful rulers of the Fronc Reaches by this proclamation however for now the dissidents remain quiet.
Main Chambers
Royal Court, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
10th June 3069
Following a visit with Archon Peter Steiner-Davion Archer Christifori as Acting-Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force presents the Star League’s plans to rebuild the University of Thorin that will become a jewel in the new Star League and Lyran Alliance‘s crown.
Seeing the Royal Court unsure of this plan Archon Peter Steiner-Davion counters this proposal to not only refurbish the University but also upgrade the facilities on Thorin to turn the world into an SLDF training ground run jointly by SLDF and Lyran authority the University will come first and be fully brought up to a standard beyond any other, on par with NAIS in the Federated Suns or Cambridge on Terra, then a Star League/Lyran training facility with instructors from across the Inner Sphere invited in to join the Lyran and Star League instructors making it a facility for the whole Inner Sphere. Any nation wishing for their people to be sent there out with the authority of the Star League will have to pay a generous enrolling fee to the Lyran Alliance and the Star League allowing the facility to run itself.
Following a brief discussion and a couple of slight refinements both the Lyran Court and the Star League Advisory council agree to the plans for the new facility. With this duty complete Morgan Hasek-Davion officially reassumes all duties as Commanding-General and Archer is able to go on vacation returning to Thorin.
On the way back to the Skye Province Peter Steiner-Davion and his own WarShip escort accompanies Archer and the Covenant as he heads for Skye in preparation to sign the Isle of Skye Accords which similarly to the Arc-Royal Protocols for Clan Wolf (in-Exile), will officially recognising the autonomy of Skye under the aegis of the Lyran Throne.
On the 30th June Archon Peter Steiner-Davion, Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner and his wife Duchess Hermonie Aten all sign the Isle of Skye Accords on Skye in front of over one hundred witnesses including General Christifori and Commanding-General Hasek-Davion. The signing of these Accords is seen as a massive step forward for the united Lyran realm however others see this as one more step for the people of Skye to independence of Skye. Skye Province is officially returning to its traditional name the Isle of Skye. Following their gaining semi-independence the Isle of Skye further modify the plans for Thorin University by adding a Isle of Skye military base and extensive DropPort facility to the already extensive facility, they say that once it is complete the SLDF and Lyran Alliance Armed forces will also be able to use the facility, for a price. Because of the nature of the Isle of Skye Accords neither the Lyran Government of Star League Defence Force have any leg to stand on for complaint.
Wolf City, Weapons Research Complex One
Arc-Royal, Arc-Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
19th June 3069
At a Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Research Facility Clan techs and scientists debut a new piece of technology that the Clan has secretly been developing for some time the Improved Jump Jet system. Based on current Jump Jet technology the Improved Jump Jets have an increased capacity and better directional control allowing a Mech to jump far farther than current standards.
To show this increased capability the Wolves showed a pair of captured Clan Jade Falcon Turkina OmniMechs. The first was outfitted with standard Jump Jets found on the Standard Turkina and was capable of jumping ninety metres the standard mobility capability. The second Turkina had been retrofitted with Improved Jump Jets and was capable of jumping one hundred and fifty metres, a clear sixty metres further than standard model. The Wolf (in-Exile) scientists are quick to point out this vastly increased capability does come at a price with pilots needing to learn how to deal with the increased distances involved, the Mechs themselves having to be modified to deal with the longer jumps and heavier landing impacts and the Improved Jump Jets are far bulkier than standard models cutting down on the amount of weapons an OmniMech can carry. Khan Phelan Kell does not care about these limitations and hails them as a great accomplishment for his Clan, Clan Diamond Shark who also have representatives there are quick to smell a deal and trade a significant quantity of weapons and supplies to the Exiles for the technology, as do the Kell Hounds and the Wolf’s Dragoons Mercenary Brigades. In the following days the Lyran Alliance Quartermasters sign similar deals with the Exiles under the new Arc-Royal Protocols giving the new technology wide deployment within weeks. Soon via the mercenary brigades and Clan Diamond Shark the Improved Jump Jet technology is available across the Inner Sphere and the Clan Occupation Zones.
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Clan Diamond Shark Shipyard Facilities
Hofn System, Jarnfolk Territory
Deep Periphery
6th July 3069
The Jarnfolk are a group of Scandinavian descendant family orientated/ruled traders that control four systems in the Deep Periphery between Clan Space and the Inner Sphere. For the most part the Jarnfolk have no contact with the outside world and no-one bothers them as they have little resources interesting to other parties and their territory is not strategically important.
Also due to an incident with a Clan Diamond Shark in 3056 the Jarnfolk families avoid the Clans at every opportunity. For the most part all anyone ever knows of the Jarnfolk is of their beautifully maintained and decorated JumpShip and DropShip fleet and their exquisite fire-arm manufacture process in which every weapon is individually engraved and built for each user of the weapon.
Unknown to every other faction the Diamond Sharks had made extensive contacts with the Hasna family of the Jarnfolk and through the decade since the first contact with the Jarnfolk the Diamond Sharks had built up an extensive alliance with the Hasna family going as far to place the whole Predator Galaxy in the Jarnfolk systems, building Hyper Pulse Generators on all four worlds, maintaining and allowing the Jarnfolk full access to the equipment. However in exchange they gained the Jarnfolk’s manual labour and the right to construct an extensive shipyard facility on, and in orbit of, the Jarnfolk’s most remote world.
When the Diamond Shark’s newest Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser Typhoon, formerly Coterie, arrived in the system already in the shipyard were five other Potemkin-class vessels including the Renown, a Clan Star Adder vessel that was under a twenty year contract with the Diamond Sharks. Every vessel was being extensively modified to a new configuration. The Typhoon slipped into the last bare berth in the shipyard and the Diamond Shark crews began modifying this vessel as well their Jarnfolk allies helping them with resources but for the most part leaving the Diamond Sharks to their own devices. Soon the Diamond Sharks would show everyone what they had planned but for now things would proceed at their own pace.
Various Worlds
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th July 3069
Beginning in the early hours and continuing through the day the a series of terrorist attacks rocks the Federated Suns Capellan March on more than a dozen worlds. The attacks vary from a Lone BattleMech turning on its Militia Command Base and killing the commander and command staff to a nail-bomb attack in a packed café at lunch time. Throughout the Capellan March the AFFS troops alert levels are heightened and both DMI and MIIO agencies begin through investigations into the attacks. Many leads point to Capellan Confederation sympathisers however there is no concrete proof to suggest the Confederation had a direct hand in the attacks.
Various Worlds
Capellan Confederation
24th July 3069
Although they have no direct link to the Capellan Confederation and there are several raids launched on Federated Suns based cells the Fox’s Teeth and several other small raiding companies attached to the new Special Forces Command begin raids against the Capellan Confederation held worlds just over the border. These attacks are designed to keep the Capellans on edge and damage the Capellan military showing that if the Confederation attacks the Federated Suns people then the Federated Suns will destroy the Capellan military machine just like the Fourth Succession War. Without significant WarShip support the Capellans are unable to stop most of the raids although they are able to destroy several of the Federated Suns unit’s the successes of the Fox’s Teeth and other units show the Capellans have no chance against the Federated Suns lightning raid tactics.
Marshal of Armies Official Residence
Avalon City (Outskirts), New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
31st July 3069
Although Reinhart Steiner owned two houses in the Federated Suns and his family mansion was in his native Lyran Alliance because of his position as the Marshal of Armies he was afforded an official city residence in Avalon City. This residence was as grand as any high wealth mansion on New Avalon, within walking distance of the Royal Court and the gates of the Davion Palace and had a direct shuttle that would take anyone to the foot of Mount Davion and the Fox’s Den public entrances. Also at the mansion was a Mech Garage for two Mechs to be stored although full maintenance could only be done at a proper Mechbay the Marshal of Armies could store his Mech near his residence during a time of war just in case of trouble on New Avalon and he was cut off from the Fox’s Den. In the garage stood Reinhart’s Warhawk Clan OmniMech still kitted out in its Lyran Guards paint scheme and Faith McCarron’s Men Shen Capellan OmniMech also kitted out in the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry paint scheme, both Mechs featured the insignia of the First New Avalon Guards RCT, the world New Avalon with a hand starching out holding the sword Excalibur, although only Reinhart’s had taken to the field carrying such colours as Faith was still considered to be a security risk by the MIIO.
As he entered the rear patio doors Reinhart immediately smelt food cooking in the kitchen walking in he saw Faith standing over the cooker with almost a dozen pans on the boil, she looked flustered and tired out something Reinhart had never seen in her. “What’s going on?†He asked quietly looking around Faith’s head immediately shot up.
“I thought I’d try my hand at cooking something.†She said sheepishly.
“And… are you winning?†Reinhart asked looking the scene over once more.
“Sort of…†she said looking over the counter at his feet “are those MechWarrior boots in my Kitchen?†She asked possessively she had only been living with Reinhart since they returned from Outreach a couple of months before. She had become very attached to the house, the others were Reinhart's this one was their home, truly shared between them. Unlike Reinhart who had been fighting the Clans almost constantly from graduation then posts within the Federated Suns Faith had enjoyed growing up in the Mansions of the Armoured Cavalry and knew how to live. One of the ground rules she had insisted on was was no work clothing in the house unless someone was visiting.
“Maybe†Reinhart answered, it was his turn to feel a little sheepish.
“Off†she ordered Reinhart didn’t hesitate or argue immediately dropping to his knees to remove the boots seconds later a sniper slug shot over the area Reinhart had been standing missing his head by inches and imbedding itself in one of Faith’s boiling pans. As the liquid began to pour out Reinhart launched himself flat onto the floor crawling away from the open patio doors and the back garden hitting his emergency communicator switch as he went, AFFS troops would be here within minutes.
“DOWN!!" He screamed "Faith, are you all right?†Looking around Faith however was too busy to answer reaching down under the cooking counter she removed a small submachine gun from a small hidden shelf under the table and opened fire firing into the bushes and trees that dominated the yet untamed back garden, one thing that would be sorted as soon as possible. Moments later another slug shot into the room missing Faith by less than a metre. Both Faith and Reinhart, armed with his Sternsnatch Auto-Pistol, opened fire hitting the trees and bushes at the back garden with over a hundred rounds in less than ten seconds. Two bodies fell out of the undergrowth immediately dressed in camouflage togs “Where did you get that?†Reinhart asked looking down at the weapon in Faith’s hands, under the rules of her staying on New Avalon she was not supposed to have any type of weapon without supervision.
“Never seen it before I used it.†Faith said also glancing at the weapon as Reinhart moved closer "came in handy" she whispered as his arms enveloped her.
“Very true, nice work.†He whispered as they embraced standing there in the shattered kitchen.
“No, nice work will be someone cleaning up this mess, and that someone not being me.†Faith said quietly Reinhart wasn’t concentrating on that however as he kissed her strongly. Within five minutes a security force of seven AFFS military police had arrived to begin an investigation, in the undergrowth they found a third body dressed like the others dead and the groundskeeper with his throat slit in his shed. Reinhart ordered the grounds cleaned of all plants and trees and began looking at hiring a landscape artist to redesign the whole area and for security to upgrade the ground and house security.
Two days later in front of the whole Royal Court and the AFFS High Command First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion awarded Faith McCarron the Gold Starburst Medal for her bravery under fire and her saving of Reinhart Steiner from assassination. This event brings the High Command into accepting Faith more than they had previously and opens some doors that had been sealed for her. At the same ceremony Reinhart Steiner is elevated to being a member of the Order of Davion. The Order of Davion is for people who show unflinching loyalty to House Davion and the First Prince and Victor Steiner-Davion cannot think of anyone more deserving than Reinhart Steiner, this is made as public as possible showing anyone in the Federated Suns that the First Prince trusted Reinhart. Again following this announcement Field Marshal George Hasek complains that Victor is hanging onto the Federated Commonwealth legacy too closely and handing out awards too easily but George is generally ignored and is soon locking horns with the High Command as they begin talking of including Tikonov and a couple of other Capellan March worlds into the Crucis March.
Following an assassination attempt on the Marshal of Armies the DMI and MIIO order a top level review on security on New Avalon, around major installations and important figures around the Federated Suns, this sort of act will not be tolerated or be allowed to happen again.
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Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City)
Sian, Capellan Confederation
19th August 3069
Following the assassination attempt on Reinhart Steiner there is a spate of six assassinations on the Capellan Confederation capital of Sian all attributed to Agent Tamroy. Disturbing to the AFFS High Command is that Agent Tamroy conducted these Assassinations without authorization from them, Tamroy is working for someone else within the Federated Suns and refusing recall orders DMI decide it is time to remove Tamroy from Capellan Space and begin setting things in motion to remove them back to the Federated Suns.
Displeased with the Bounty Hunter’s efforts to rid the Confederation of this menace the Capellan Chancellor, Sun-Tzu Liao, orders the Bounty Hunter expelled from his space. The Bounty Hunter’s DropShip is carried into the Free Worlds League Remnant by Capellan WarShips and abandoned. This marks one of the first times the Bounty Hunter has been taken off a contract and the Bounty Hunter is more than a little annoyed at their treatment.
Federated-Boeing Shipyard Facility
Galax, Crucis March
Federated Suns
30th August 3069
Following its acquisition from Clan Nova Cat and a refit period at the Federated-Boeing Shipyard the WarShip Constrictor, formerly a Whirlwind-class Destroyer in the service of Clan Steel Viper, re-launches into open space under the name FSS New Avalon and is designated as a Whirlwind Block II-class Destroyer because of the differences to the original class. The Federated-Boeing engineers have done little to the design other than change the armour and replace the Clan weapons with easier to maintain Inner Sphere varieties. Many of the engineers are happy to note that the vessel is in-fact one of the vessels originally built as a Davion Block I-class vessel and sold to the Star League Defence Force by the Federated Suns during the Reunification War. The newest vessel in the Federated Suns is in-fact over three hundred years old. Because the Whirlwind-class is similar to the Federated Suns own Davion-class it is thought that few people will notice the difference between the classes or question where the vessel has come from.
New Scotland Continent
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
14th September 3069
At a closed ceremony attended by few others, namely First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Danai Centrella-Davion, Reinhart Steiner and Faith McCarron marry on New Avalon. During the ceremony Victor Steiner-Davion officially makes Faith McCarran a citizen of the Federated Suns and also gives Faith the rank of Captain in the AFFS making her an aide-de-camp to the Marshal of Armies. Faith officially adopts the Steiner surname forever forsaking her McCarron heritage.
Across Inner Sphere
Succession States and Periphery Realms
September/October 3069
The war between the Word of Blake and ComStar was destroying both organisations and Terra, the last contested world of the Terran System. In the past several months seven ComStar Divisions had been destroyed in and around the Moscow and Manhattan Metropolises fighting against the four Marik Militia Regiments that had joined the Word of Blake following the disintegration of their nation. As their forces neared defeat the Word of Blake had ensured these Cities would not be taken and used by ComGuard forces by detonating massive nuclear bombs under both cities toppling skyscrapers and killing millions of civilians and most of all the ComGuard Division troops. Now Moscow and Manhattan Metropolises sat as silent ruins with millions of innocents dead or displaced in the nuclear wastelands that were once their homes.
As the situation became more and more desperate ComStar calls in all HPG technicians and support troops to Terra abandoning their responsibilities to the Inner Sphere Communications to ensure they destroy the Word of Blake. During one of these reinforcements runs, through the Word of Blake Blockade around Terra, the WarShip Fire Fang, heavily damaged and left disabled just outside Terran orbit from Clan Ghost Bear during the SLDF Operation Serpent, and its escort DropShips destroying four Word of Blake Pinto-class Corvettes in the fighting but still a heavy loss for the ComGuards severely weakened WarShip fleet. With the loss of the Fire Fang the ComGuard Navy is down to three vessels but only one of these is combat capable, the Black Lion-class Blake’s Strength, with the Word of Blake still fielding four vessels, three combat capable, ComStar calls on the AMC and the Star League Defence Force for additional WarShip and Assault DropShip support completing the final hurdle against the Word of Blake.
Across the Inner Sphere nations begin to notice the loss of the HPG network almost instantly at every level in the military and civilian areas. Financial markets crash hours after the loss of the network and orders are not delivered meaning units do not move to meet potential threats or for routine rendezvous.
The Federated Suns turns to Clan Nova Cat looking for assistance in running their network however the Nova Cat technicians will be unable to deploy for at least a month probably two. The Free Worlds League Remnant makes good use of the Word of Blake personnel trapped in their realm following the withdrawal of Word of Blake troops to Terra. Other nations are forced to employ the ‘pony-express’ method of communication which involves chains of JumpShips passing on information as they arrive in new systems - not perfect and very slow. Many nations not caring that ComStar are embroiled in a War begin to look at the Star League to bring charges against ComStar for failing to maintain the communications grid.
Donegal
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
18th October 3069
General of Armies Keane Sortek of the LAAF presides over a ceremony that celebrates the Third Lyran Guards BattleMech Regiment’s growth to a full Regimental Combat Team. Although this new unit is woefully inexperienced in training together it is the first step towards strengthening the Lyran military and the new RCT will train extensively with several other units in the Lyran realm to gain experience and a comradely before its first assignment. Keane also announces that there will be several new BattleMech regiments raised in the Lyran Alliance over the next few years to bolster the Lyran Military’s strength and to begin the push towards regaining some of the territory lost to the Jade Falcons and the Draconis Combine. Across the Lyran Realm at the Ioto Galactic Enterprises Port Sydney Shipyards in the Alarion system the Lyran people also celebrate the launch of the LAS Fredrick Steiner, the nation’s newest Fox-class Corvette. The Lyran People hope that these new additions will strengthen the Lyran people enough for them to support a war against the Clans and Draconis Combine to regain lost worlds but only time will tell.
Fire Mandrill Territory
Dagda, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds
23rd October 3069
In a move that no-one had expected Clan Fire Mandrill’s Kindraa Payne-Beyl-Grant, one of the strongest factions of Clan Fire Mandrill, all gather on Dagda in the Pentagon Worlds with all three of their WarShips maintaining orbit and refusing any travel over their ground. For an entire twenty-four hour period the Kindraa refuses all contact from other Clans and even their own Khans. Then on almost exactly 00.00 hours every single Fire Mandrill DropShip, seventeen vessels, on planet takes off rendezvousing with their WarShips in orbit. They then burn to a pirate point within the system linking up with several JumpShips waiting for them they then all disappear not emerging in any Clan homeworld.
Expeditions from Clans Wolf, Star Adder and Goliath Scorpion enter the area throughout the next week they discover over eighty percent of the Fire Mandrill military, scientific and civilian forces on planet have been evacuated and the Fire Mandrill bases are completely abandoned. The Kindraa has completely abandoned its Clan, two weeks later the Khans of Clan Fire Mandrill declare the Kindraa as dezgra clearing the way for any Clan faction to eliminate them on sight.
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Pleiades Cluster, Disputed Territory
Taurian Concordat/Federated Suns Border
15th November 3069
Escorted by the SLS Troy, the former-FWL Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser, the First Sirian Lancer Brigade enters the Pleiades Cluster to fly the Star League Flag in the region for the first time in centuries. Even before the unit reaches the first of the Cluster’s planets a squadron of Taurian marked fighters assault the WarShip. Although this force causes no damage the signal is clear the Star League Forces are not welcome in the Pleiades Cluster for any reason.
As the Sirian Lancer troopers land on the world Federated Suns units move in to offer assistance however their commander, Lt General Jason Thrall, refuses to trust the Federated Suns, who had conquered his nation during the Fourth Succession War, refuse this assistance and stand alone ignoring Federated Suns calls to move their base closer to Suns lines. Knowing that Thrall’s position against the Federated Suns is endangering his troops lives and the SLDF mission to Pleiades the Federated Suns commander tries to contact the Star League Advisory Council, on Defiance, however with the HPG Grid not fully operational the message is never delivered.
Marshal of Armies Residence
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th November 3069
Barely two months following their marriage Faith and Reinhart Steiner discover they are to be parents with Faith falling pregnant. Knowing that the pregnancy could put doubt in people’s minds about her capabilities Faith declares that she will continue to complete her duties as Reinhart’s aide-de-camp for as long as possible putting her duties as a Captain in the AFFS ahead of her personal needs. Reinhart removes Faith from the active MechWarrior list on a temporary basis, although Faith does not approve of this move she agrees to comply with her husband’s, and bosses, wishes.
Unknown Location
Pleiades Cluster, Capellan March
Disputed Federated Suns/Taurian Concordat
21st December 3069
In the middle of the night just over a month after their arrival in the Pleiades Cluster on Star League duties the First Sirian Lancers Brigade were at camp after a relatively successful day. Lieutenant-General Jason Thrall was having a particularly successful day, not only had he taken down three enemy Mechs today single handily he had hooked up with a young armour Lieutenant who was fantastic in bed, against the regs but he didn‘t give a crap High Command was on Kittery not in the Pleiades. Life was good. Life was also quite cold waking drowsily from his stupor Jason could feel cold to his back and his arms were in a strange position “honey turn up the heat, it’s freezing in here.†He whispered moments later cold, slimy liquid was poured all over his crotch area immediately waking him up “What the hell?!?†He screamed looking around trying to get up but finding his arms locked in position by chains “What is going on?†He demanded looking around seeing no-one.
“Turning up the heat†a voice said from the darkness as a cigarette lighter with a single flame was moved out from the darkness, Jason tried to get away from the flame but he was locked in position
“What the hell do you want?†He asked as the flame got closer “money? I have money?†He said getting desperate as the lighter touched the soaked fabric of his shorts which instantly burst into flame, the liquid acting as an accelerant, he had but moments before the shorts and accelerant would burn away and his skin was next. The heat and pain were unbearable but Jason tried to resist crying out, a plan that lasted seconds as he began to scream.
“Not yet†the voice said and a bucket of water was thrown over him dowsing the flame, nothing was left of the shorts he was naked, burned and blistered and still chained to the metal table.
“L… Look we can t…talk about this.†Jason stammered out.
“I think not, does this look familiar?†the voice asked as more lights in the room lit up, there lying there was Lieutenant Ann Cain, the young woman he had been with just a short time before. She was naked, her face battered black-and-blue.
“Lieutenant Cain? What is she doing here? What have you done to her?†Jason asked demanding an answer, he knew what they had planned he just didn‘t want to admit it to himself.
“Nothing yet, but since you expect us to do something, we will comply.â€
“N… no wait! I… I didn’t mean for you to…†he said as a hooded male appeared between her legs naked from the waist down, Jason knew what was coming and shut his eyes.
“I think not, General†the voice said two arms reached him from each side and held his eyes open and his head turned towards the unconscious lieutenant.
“Why… Why are you doing this?†He asked
“We have had enough of the Star League and the Federated Suns thinking they can run our lives. It is time that people left us alone.†The voice said as the first man disappeared from the Lieutenant and another man appeared just as she began to wake and realize what was happening, Ann Cain began to scream. “It is time people got the message, we don’t want the Star League here.†the voice said as a blade appeared over Jason’s chest and immediately dug into his skin, Jason screamed, the knife was not meant to kill however as the wielder began to cut an ’S’ into his chest. It was time to give the Star League a message they wouldn’t forget in a hurry.
The next morning in the centre of the Sirian Lancer’s base camp Jason Thrall’s body was found hung on a cross naked and burned with the words “SLDF - GET OFF OUR PLANET†stencilled on his chest. Beside the cross lying on the ground bloodied, battered she was also naked and nearly frozen to death was Ann Cain barely alive following her ordeal.
The heir to the Sirian Concordance was dead but the Star League troops could not show they were defeated or they would be next, the Lancers began operations less than an hour after the discoveries within hours there were results with a rebel Battalion surrounded and annihilated by the Lancers, with no prisoners taken, a building in the battle area was flattened by the lancers inside fifty-two women and children were found. All during the day the Lancer’s restraint became less and less controlled leading to the Federated Suns forces on planet to step in and hold the Lancers off destroying an entire village in their anger
Proving Grounds
Tortuga Prime, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
31st December 3069
Without any major battles to fight, or opponents to threaten them, Clan Nova Cat had charged down the research and development path as they continued to transform the former-Tortuga Dominions worlds into Clan worlds. One world had remained almost completely untouched however, Tortuga Prime, the former capital world had been turned into a massive Proving Ground for newly developed Nova Cat weapons and units. With Tau Galaxy helping the Nova Cats on New Haiti to develop new combat vehicles, first is the Shoden Tactical Missile Tank, a seventy ton wheeled vehicle design with three Advanced Tactical Missile Launchers on a turret as the main weapons. The Nova Cat Watch and a small contingent of Clan Diamond Shark had helped develop new BattleMech designs.
The first design ready for submission to the Khan had been named the Ocelot and had been developed by Nova Cat-born scientists helped by captured Ice Hellion and Smoke Jaguar scientists. A light design weighing in at thirty-five tons the Mech was capable of over running at over ninety kilometres per hour and jumping one hundred-and-eighty metres making it an able scout or harasser. For armament the Ocelot would come in two primary configurations. The first would carry a torso mounted Heavy Large Laser, two arm mounted Extended-Range Medium Lasers and to help in scout missions a Light Active Probe. Although it was a heat machine and was restricted to medium ranged conflicts its speed and jump jets would compensate for that making it lethal in the harasser/flanker roll. The second Ocelot would drop the Light Active Probe and some armour gaining an Extended-Range Particle Projection Cannon in its place giving the Mech superior strike range and firepower while sacrificing the advanced scouting abilities, this Mech is very similar to the Clan Wolf (in-Exile)’s Pack Hunter design, another light design with a heavy punch.
Upon seeing the design Khan Canin Rosse had liked the design but been worried about its capabilities in the field as the scientists had never tested it in a real combat test. Instead of waiting for the scientists to get a trial for the Mech, Canin selected three Mechs available to them on Tortuga and climbed into the Ocelot ready to take the Mech out himself for some live fire testing. Much to the surprise and horror of the Nova Cat scientists.
“Nova Cat Alpha, Control, radio check.†Canin said looking over the inventory available to him extra-light fusion engine-fully powered, gyro-stable and set to his patterns, Left torso Heavy Large Laser-fully powered and focused, Right Arm twin Extended-Range Medium Lasers-powered, primed and read, Light Active Probe-stand-by mode.
“Control, Nova Cat Alpha, read you clear. Target one at end of range, good hunting†the controller said, Canin recognised the voice as someone who had worked on the base when Canin was in charge of the Tortuga Garrison and immediately felt good about this, Canin was now in the firing line, the Ocelot would be using live ammo and so would its targets anything could happen here up-to and including his death.
“Understood, moving to engage.†He said accelerating the Mech forwards, at the other side of the Proving Ground a former-Clan Wolf (in-Exile) thirty ton Pack Hunter came charging towards him. The Pack Hunter was faster, more manoeuvrable and had better range on the Ocelot, but lacked back-up weapons making it a perfect test target for the Mech. Canin ran in towards the ‘Hunter closing the distance then just within PPC range turned cutting left away from the ‘Hunter drawing the lighter Mech closer. After nearly thirty seconds at full speed the ‘Hunter pilot launched their Mech skyward using the design’s impressive jump capacity to close two hundred-and-ten metres in a single bound. At the same time Canin launched his Ocelot backwards using the Ocelot’s own Jump Jets the two Mechs crossed in mid-air missing by metres the ’Hunter pilot unwilling to risk a shot in mid-air continued past the Ocelot. Canin was not so cautious firing both arm mounted Extended-Range Medium Lasers coring the centre torso armour then the gyroscope the damage was not crippling but was enough to knock the ‘Hunter off course before landing forcing the Mech into a lop-sided impact with the Mech’s full thirty tons landing down on the left leg. The left leg of the ‘Hunter seemed to take the impact for a moment then shattered into hundreds of pieces as the full shock of the impact destroyed the limb and causing the ‘Hunter to plough into the ground face first. The damage caused to the leg and gyroscope ruled the Mech out of this fight, Canin did not give the Pack Hunter another moments notice turning around to see the next Mech entering the grounds a captured Inner Sphere Owens OmniMech.
Canin instantly recognised the Mech as the same one that had once belonged to MechWarrior Camilla, a former-Smoke Jaguar, who had died as a Nova Cat defending the First Babylon Diet in the Clan Homeworlds. Although inferior to Clan designs of similar size Canin knew this was not a standard Owens and had been modified with Clan tech making it a far more challenging adversary.
The Owens was far faster than the Ocelot and the pilot knew how to use his Mech zigzagging from left to right as they closed the Owens pilot kept a near constant barrage of Advance Tactical Missile fire in the air causing explosions on each side of the Ocelot but causing no damage to the Mech. This immediately gave Canin an idea of what he was facing one of the Owens weapon configurations, developed by the Nova Cats, carried a six-tube ATM launcher and a pair of Heavy Medium-class Lasers. Once the Mech got closer it could do a lot of damage to Canin’s Mech. Copying the Owens Canin began to zigzag the Ocelot closing on the Owens then at maximum range for the Heavy Large Laser and the Extended-Range lasers he triggered a full barrage raising the heat in the Ocelot cockpit dramatically and causing his weapons array to short out briefly as the heat sinks and firing control computers dealt with the unstable Heavy lasers. The opal laser blast of the heavy laser bore into the Owens left side stripping the torso of all armour and causing heavy internal damage, Canin saw an internal explosion and guessed he had hit the Active Probe or extra-light engine. Whatever it put the Owens’ shot off target causing the Mech to stumble under the attack, luckily for the pilot the Ocelot’s two bright red Extended-Range lasers missed their target. Instead of waiting for return fire from the Owens Canin launched the Ocelot airborne with its jump jets closing on the wounded Owens, in mid-air Canin opened up with the heavy laser again this time the opal beam sliced into the right torso, again more internal explosions could be seen and the Mech locked up as the fusion engine moved into emergency shut-down to avoid a core breach taking the Owens out of the fight, two down.
Turning to look for his next target Canin’s Ocelot was battered by an autocannon blast to the right arm. Looking up he could see a forty-five ton Stealth OmniMech, gained from the Federated Suns months before and like the Owens modified with Clan technology. This configuration was not the deadliest but still carried quite a barrage of an medium Ultra-class autocannon and four Extended-Range Small Lasers. Moving in the Stealth stood its ground firing the double-rate autocannon again causing damage to the torso this time, the in-active light active probe winked off-line as half a ton of armour rained on the deck. Closing on the Mech Canin watched as the heavier Mech continued to stand its ground, just within range of his lasers Canin cut off a full barrage of Heavy laser and Extended-Range Lasers the Heavy went high and wide while the paired medium lasers tore into the left torso melting the autocannon muzzle, a lucky shot, putting the weapon out of commission and turning the Stealth into a toothless design with the Extended-Range Small Lasers far out of range. The Stealth pilot then chose to use his Mech’s other assets, speed and Jump Capacity. Launching itself over two hundred metres closer the Stealth then began to run towards Canin’s Ocelot intent on bringing its lasers into range, on the damaged Ocelot they could be dangerous. Now it was Canin’s turn to stand still lining up his heavy laser on the Stealth’s damaged left torso Canin waited until he saw the Stealth pilot fire his own Lasers before cutting off a Heavy Laser blast. The all four of the Stealth’s lasers tore into the Ocelot’s torso armour causing light damage but the single Heavy Laser barrage tore into the Stealth’s damaged torso destroying the shielding the fusion engine had left disabling the engine. Safety protocols launched the pilot’s ejection seat rockets, sending the pilot over the field for recover by Nova Cat teams, the protocols also shut down the Mech warding off a catastrophic engine failure saving the Mech to be repaired at a later date. “Exercise over my Khan, congratulations on a successful run†the controller said over the comm. Canin nodded it had been a good day for him and for his Clan.
With no more targets left on their field other than Canin’s Ocelot he walked it back to the engineers and scientists who had created the design and dropped to the ground to address them. “I think this Mech is as Agile as a Smoke Jaguar, Swift as an Ice Hellion and as Deadly as a Nova Cat†he said brining in every side of the development team praising them all. “Although our warriors are superior in skill, I belief it is good to welcome the claws of others into out Clan, we are more deadly as a result. I welcome the Ocelot into our Clan so that we may merge their claws with our warrior spirit with our strength and dedication.†He said bowing his head slightly all others followed suit then after a moment all said in unison “Seyla!†welcoming the Ocelot into the Nova Cat Clan Touman, when it would be used in anger was anyone‘s guess but they were ready.
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Hope you enjoyed 3069 into 3070...
3070
Sirian Lancers Brigade Base
Pleiades Cluster, Capellan March
Federated Suns disputed by Taurian Concordat
8th January 3070
It had been just over two weeks since Jason Thrall’s brutal murder and the First Sirian Lancers Brigade had been very effective, almost blood-thirsty in their efforts to destroy the Taurian forces in the Pleiades Cluster. No longer were the Sirian Lancers acting like Star League Peacekeepers instead they were a hunter killer force. The Federated Suns troops and their employed mercenary forces appeared to be happy to watch the Lancers tear the Taurians apart piece-by-piece constantly feeding them information on where possible Taurian strongholds were, although they were ready to stop the Sirians doing anything that may endanger the population of Pleiades. The Taurians knowing that if they continued to hide in small groups and try to wage a guerrilla campaign would be wiped out pulled together. The Taurian’s Corps III and Corps IV joined together and in the early hours of the morning charged the Sirian Lancers base.
With nearly four Mech Regiments, two Combat vehicle Regiments and nearly a full regiment of infantry, some equipped with battle suits all supported by two fighter wings the Sirian Lancer Combat Air Patrol (CAP) fighters were destroyed quickly, the rest of the SLDF aerospace wing was quickly destroyed mostly on the ground before their pilots could even make it to their craft.
On the ground surrounded a single Mech Regiment, two Armour Regiments, a Jump Infantry Regiment and a Battle Armour Battalion faced off against the Taurians who quickly moved to surround the Sirian position. With this being the unit’s first deployment from the Sirian Concordance and this being their first real large scale battle since leaving the Free Worlds League and freeing their Homeworlds the inexperienced ground commanders of the Lancer units did not know how to react and the unit quickly began to buckle under the concentrated Taurian efforts to destroy them with individual lances and companies attempting to run only to be cut to pieces.
The only saving grace for the Sirian forces, and what probably saved them from total annihilation was the arrival of the Lexington Battle Group Mercenaries and the Medusans DropShip Battle Squadron. The Mercenaries had little interest in saving the Sirians instead ripping into the Taurian forces, although this did take the Taurian interest away from the beleaguered SLDF troops. Over the next sixteen hours, as the now outnumbered and out-classed Taurians tried to disengage, all four Mech regiments of the Taurian Concordat’s III and IV Corps, along with all their support, were completely annihilated by the Mercenary forces. When the dust clears perhaps a combined-arms Battalion of demoralised Sirian Lancer troops remain standing while no Taurians remain standing. The mercenaries had done exactly what the Federated Suns commanders had hoped.
Although the Sirian Lancers are destroyed in this battle it does effectively end all Taurian resistance in the Pleiades Cluster and bring peace to the Federated Suns/Taurian Concordat borders. Thus ending the need for another Star League force to be deployed to the area. Following reports of this incident reaching the Sirian Concordance’s leader Primus/General Helen Thrall, recovering from the loss of her son, Thrall attempts to call for a emergency conference to have the Taurians removed from the Star League unfortunately with the HPG Grid acting erratically no-one can form a Star League Conference so the Taurians survive as a Star League State. The Federated Suns’ Capellan March sends Thrall and the Concordance a message of their support in removing the Taurians from the Star League Defence Force at the next Conference in November 3070.
Secret Anchorage
Hyades Cluster, Taurian Concordat
21st January 3070
As a member of Taurus’ first line of defence Ensign Leo Mathews and his wingman Rebecca Strange were among the most elite pilots in the Taurian Concordat Air Arm. They were regularly tasked with supporting the Special Asteroid Support Force (SASF), which consisted of five thousand zero-g troopers dedicated to the defence of Taurus and the most secret piece of hardware the Taurians possessed the TCS Vandenberg, a Vincent Mk 39-class Corvette held over from the Reunification War. The vessel was nowhere near operational and many high ranking Taurian officers called it the TCS Albatross because of the money and resources routed to restore the vessel for little results, but to Leo it was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen and it was a pleasure to fly by it and ensure no-one got near it without clearance from the Protector himself. For today’s mission Leo and Rebecca had pulled the most unenviable task of all Taurian pilots assigned in close proximity to the Vandenberg. Both of their sixty-five ton SL-17 Shilone aerospace fighters carried a single weapon slung under their hull’s, the warhead of an Alamo-class Nuclear Missile. If it appeared their position would be lost to an enemy intruder, along with the Vandenberg, they were under orders to ram their fighters into the corvette and any nearby enemy DropShips intent on destroying their prize or at least delaying them for other Taurian forces to arrive. For two hundred years two fighters had carried out this duty and nothing had happened so Leo was not too bothered about the job but others, like Rebecca, were not so happy with the task. “Becca, how you doing over there?†Leo asked looking over at Rebecca’s fighters as they moved above the Corvette.
“How do you think? With this fat ass bomb strapped to my baby’s ass it feels like I’m flying a god-damned elephant.†She said cursing something in another language, one of the things Leo liked about flying with a linguist, like Rebecca, was he learned how to curse in so many different languages. So far he had identified six different languages, although he had no idea how many she knew it kept things interesting trying to work out what she was saying.
“Don’t worry another twelve hours and our tour for the month will be over.†As members of the SASF they had to complete this duty but only once every thirty days, another reason Leo didn’t mind the job. Fly in a kilometre wide circle for twelve hours, piss easy normally… but not today. Looking down at the Vandenberg he noticed the aft-port thrusters engage for a split second changing the Vandenberg’s spin “what the hell? Becca did you see that?†He asked trying to verify if what he had seen had happened.
“What?†Rebecca sounded bored.
“The Vandenberg’s rear thrusters on the port side fired!†He said looking at the corvette more closely, it certainly was turning differently now.
“No way†Rebecca said her voice full of sarcasm “I’ll fly back to base and get them a medal, about time the Albatross moved.†She said Leo ignored her quip he knew she did not feel for the ship and its symbolism as strongly as he did, normally it didn’t matter but today it made him angry.
“Better arm your nuke instead.†Leo said beginning the arming system on his warhead, no-one was moving the Vandenberg without his knowledge.
“You’re joking right?†Becca asked Leo noticed her fighter was dropping back and her targeting systems were coming online as was standard procedure but nothing on the nuke yet.
“Not a chance of that ship moving without our knowledge.†He said seeing the thrusters fire again “let’s get moving before it does.†He said switching frequencies as he saw Rebecca had begun arming her own warhead. “Fire Angel One to Crazy Horse Command come in.â€
“Crazy Horse Command, Online, go ahead Fire Angel.†The duty officer said he sounded as bored as Rebecca had moments before.
“Sir, the Vandenberg’s moving! No scheduled tests of her thrusters…†Leo nearly shouted into the comm. trying to get the man’s attention. “I need to know if that is authorised or if I have clearance to execute ‘case-zero-zero’?†he said quoting the orders drilled into ever pilot on day one do not allow the Vandenberg to fall into enemy hands - nuke it first.
“What the hell?†The Duty Officer asked shocked by the statement checking his own instruments sure enough the corvette was moving under its own power “movement confirmed, Fire Angel, this is not authorised clearance given execute case-zero-zero.†The Duty Officer said as both engines on the Vandenberg lit up and the ancient corvette began to move. Leo had always known he would die in service but he had never expected it to be like this. Turning his fighter towards the corvette he began a spiral dive that would bring him onto the corvette’s mid-ship area perfect placing for maximum damage.
“Fire Angel Two, follow me in mop up any stragglers.â€
“You know kid, it’s a shame you are so dedicated, you were a good stick.†Rebecca said her voice completely different from what it was normally now with a thick German accent, it didn‘t even sound Taurian, more like Terran.
“What are you on about? We have orders to execute case-zero-zero, follow your orders!†He said at that very moment his threat warning systems activated as Rebecca painted his fighter with active sensors. Moments later the Vandenberg’s ‘non-operational’ defensive lasers came on line and fired targeting him fed by Rebecca’s data, Rebecca fired at the same time. With no time to react Leo’s fighter was hit by more than a dozen laser and missile strikes, one of the missiles from Rebecca’s fighter stuck the nuclear warhead and the fighter was incinerated in a nuclear fireball ending Leo’s life kilometres from his target.
Maintaining radio silence and ignoring Crazy Horse Rebecca turned towards Gamma Station on the perimeter. The space station had once been an Olympus-class recharge station once over the years it been converted into a defensive post to protect the Vandenberg. Now it was in her way. Brining her fighter to full thrust Rebecca quickly overtook the corvette, which again fired its reaction control thrusters orientating itself towards the station. Just then a Merchant-class JumpShip arrived in system and detached three DropShips and a dozen fighters taking the station’s attention away from her. Rebecca opened a tight-beam encrypted communication frequency to the corvette “the fires of Blake burn brightly and the gates of Hyades open for the righteous. Peace of Blake be with you and the rightful master!†She said in a near emotionless state just as her fighter slammed into the station the nuclear weapon attached to her fighter exploded almost at the same time incinerating the fighter, station, dozens of surrounding fighters, three DropShips and three hundred Taurian guards on the station in an instant. The Vandenberg cruised through the gap in the defence net rendezvousing with the JumpShip then both quickly left the Cluster abandoning the DropShips and fighters deployed by the JumpShip to suicide runs into several of the other stations and DropShips defending the Vandenberg’s former position. The Taurian Concordat’s greatest prize and closest held secret was gone.
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Ramora
Outworlds Alliance
5th-12th February 3070
Under orders from the Federated Suns Draconis March Command on Robinson the Screaming Eagles Mercenary Regiment jumps three of its four Mech Battalions over the border into Outworlds Alliance territory to hunt down a bandit force that had been plaguing the Draconis March Periphery region for months. Arriving at a pirate point in the Ramora system the Screaming Eagles Mercenaries charge onto the planet only to find a force already on planet ready for them.
Finding their DropShips swarmed by enemy fighters immediately one vessel is forced into a crash landing while the other two are both badly damaged. Marshaling her troops Colonel Tam Lafayette, the Eagles Intelligence officer informs her that the fighters attacking them are not raider fighters instead they are Clan Snow Raven and Outworlds Alliance fighters! Realizing that intelligence has dropped her Regiment in trouble Tam orders a full evacuation to commence as soon as the survivors of the third Battalion can be recovered.
Fighting through a heavy fighter screen, an entire Trinary of Front-Line Clan MechWarriors and support assets from the Alliance Borders the Screaming Eagles are able to get to their downed colleagues and return them and much of their equipment to the other vessels abandoning the downed vessel to the Ravens and Outworlds Alliance. Loosing nearly a full Battalion in the fight along with exec Lt Colonel Chris Lewis the Screaming Eagles make a hasty exit before more Ravens and Outworlds Alliance forces arrive.
Returning to their base world of Kilborne the Screaming Eagles plan to inform the AFFS of their mistake and ask for compensation from their employers however this is put on hold as they find their fourth Mech Battalion and their armour regiment under heavy assault by the Sixth Raven Battle Cluster and Outworlds Alliance fighters. Fighting their way through the air screen the Screaming Eagles throw themselves into the Snow Raven ground forces completely destroying their opponents but loosing another Battalion of Mechs in the process. Although salvage will allow them to regain nearly a full battalion, all at a higher tech level than they had previous, back they have lost over a full battalion’s worth of equipment and troops in this order from the Draconis March Command. With their armour regiment decimated as well the Screaming Eagles have a lot of rebuilding to do.
Colonel Tam Lafayette transmits information to the Draconis March Regional Command and to New Avalon High Command informing them of their mistake and the damage done to the Screaming Eagles and the relations between the Federated Suns and Outworlds Alliance/Clan Snow Raven. The Draconis March Regional Command transmits information back informing them that they did not send the orders that sent them into the Outworlds Alliance and that they are to hold position on Kilborne until the incident can be fully investigated by the Federated Suns DMI, the Federated Suns hope that this rogue action has not created a powerful new adversary for their nation.
Near Terra Orbit
Terra System, Chaos March
14th February 3070
With a combination of the remaining ComGuard, Allied Mercenary Command and Star League Defence Force WarShip fleets the final four Word of Blake WarShips are finally cornered between Terra and its satellite Luna. In a very one sided battle the Word of Blake vessels were overwhelmed by the superior numbers of the allied fleets and defeated with three vessels destroyed and one running from the battle.
During the Battle the Wolf’s Dragoons vessel Nelson, a Lola III-class Destroyer is destroyed as is almost all the remaining ComGuard WarShips including the Blake’s Strength, the largest surviving vessel. The Blake's Strength and others are destroyed or disabled in the final moments of the battle trying to stop the Blake’s Sword, a McKenna-class Battleship, the Word of Blake’s Flagship as it retreated instead of staying with the Word of Blake cause to the end. Although some Chaos March listening posts are able to track the vessel briefly the Blake's Sword soon enters the former Free Worlds League claimed space and disappears from view.
For the SLDF vessels the SLS Shining Claw received only light damage during the battle however with the ComGuard navy decimated they are left in system as Terra's only space defence and for recovery operations, for the first time since the Amaris Coup Terra is almost completely defenceless. With the loss of the Nelson the Wolf’s Dragoons retreat to Outreach without another word not interested in losing anymore of their WarShip fleet or helping anyone, the Dragoons again have a long way to rebuild before they will be ready for another major deployment.
This battle also reveals the mystery of the attack on the New Syrtis Shipyards by a Colt-class Battle-cruiser in 3061 as the Heracles is destroyed by the Wolf’s Dragoons vessel Beowulf. With the revelation of these details the Federated Suns’ Capellan March offers any support the ComGuards want, anything they can do to pay back the Word of Blake but the ComGuards refuse knowing that if any successor state fought on Terra it would probably spark another Succession War.
Detroit
Fronc Reaches, Periphery
27th February 3070
The Taurian Concordat launches a full scale invasion of the Fronc Reaches in retaliation for the loss of the TCS Vandenberg, they find it nowhere or any evidence of it ever being taken to the Fronc claimed systems with the population hostile to them being on the Fronc worlds as well as pressure from the Magistracy of Canopus and the Capellan Confederation they withdraw but not before disarming the Colonial Marshals of almost all their Mech force and taking an entire production line of Anubis BattleMechs from the Detroit factories much to the anger of the Capellans and the Magistracy.
The Fronc Reaches hire several small mercenary forces on short term contracts to supplement their conventional forces until more Marshals can be equipped with Mech forces. Both Capellan and Magistracy governments censure the Taurians because of their action against the Fronc Reaches and their act of piracy in taking the Mechs.
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Royal Palace
Tharkad City, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
8th March 3070
Following a secret pregnancy and birth Isis Steiner and Peter Steiner-Davion present their second child to the Lyran people a second daughter named Melinda-Anne Steiner. Why the babies conception and birth had been kept secret is unknown however the couple appear happy to present the information now and the baby seems healthy enough as it screams its way through its presentation to the Lyran Royal Court.
University of Thorin Archaeological Dig
Thorin, North of Ecol City
Isle of Skye, Lyran Alliance
17th March 3070
With the Isle of Skye and the Lyran Alliance agreeing to allow the excavation of the University of Thorin site and the rebuilding of the site the first Star League hired engineers and archaeologists arrive on Thorin and begin the long process of seeing what exactly remains of the former University Grounds before they begin building work on the site. Experts predict the work will take more than a decade to complete even the first stages of the work.
At the same time as part of the deal made with the Lyran Alliance the Fifteenth Arcturan Guards BattleMech Regiment vacate the Star League-era Fort in the centre of the planetary capital, Ecol City. The Fifteenth Royal Battle Armour Battalion arrives to guard the Dig-site and to take possession of the fort beginning work of their own preparing the Fort and Thorin to become a hub of SLDF Activity once more for the first time in centuries. To cope with the population and economy boosts that Thorin will soon experience the Star League and Isle of Skye pour money and resources into Thorin to help the world prepare for the changes that are about to take place. Two SLDF projects are put on hold due to this expenditure as is an Isle of Skye project causing some resentment from neighbouring worlds.
Hazelhurst, Inner End, Kennard
Federated Sun/Raven Alliance Border
27th March 3070
The Raven Alliance answers the attack from Federated Suns Mercenaries much in the same way that they answered the Draconis Combine’s destroying one of their WarShips. On the 25th they expel all Federated Suns ambassadors, cadets studying at universities and personnel at mining projects forcing them out with what they can carry and no more. Then two days later Snow Raven ground forces supported by WarShips and Outworlds Alliance forces enter three Federated Suns systems and annex the worlds of Hazelhurst, Inner End and Kennard. The three lightly defended worlds of the Draconis March fall in hours unable to put up resistance to the smallest amount of forces the Snow Ravens put against them. Draconis March Commanders begin reorganising their forces in case of a major offensive while the AFFS High Command monitor the situation from New Avalon deploying two WarShips to the region just in case. Several members of the High Command suggest they contact the Nova Cats for WarShip support and pressure on the Snow Ravens however the First Prince points out that the Federated Suns has never relied on anyone for help and will not start now. Privately however Victor does seriously consider contacting the Nova Cats, or the SLDF, if the Snow Ravens launch a full invasion of his realm he decides to hold off calling for full assistance instead shuffling around his ground troops to defend important worlds and moving WarShips into locations near the Raven Alliance Borders.
Space Defence System Network
Coventry System
Coventry Province, Lyran Alliance
9th April 3070
With the last of the fourteen Battlesat Orbital Lasers coming on-line in the Coventry system this completes the first stage of creating Coventry’s SDS Network. These lasers are spread out around Coventry and although designed to be targeted on ground targets could easily be redirected to space-borne targets and are more than capable of destroying any DropShip with a single shot, while combined they would threaten a lighter WarShip. With the completion of this stage of the network the Noble leaders of Coventry and the LAAF begin gathering more resources on the planet ready to begin construction of the shipyards and the upgrading of the recharge stations soon Coventry would be one of the best defended worlds in the Lyran Alliance and that security, and the resources gained from the new shipyard, would allow the Lyran Alliance to spread out back across the Inner Sphere for the first time in generations they would be able to go on the offensive.
La Blon, Rigil Kentarus, Accrington, Port Moseby
Lyran Alliance/Draconis Combine Border
April-May 3070
Led by the Fifteenth Lyran Guards RCT, a former combatant of the last Battle of Hesperus II, seven Lyran ground units and four WarShips launch attacks on the worlds of La Blon, Rigil Kentarus, Accrington and Port Moseby all worlds lost to the Draconis Combine in 3064. Beginning on the 18th April. Fighting is tough on all the worlds as the DCMS fights from fortified positions however by mid-May La Blon and Accrington had been secured by Lyran forces with the DCMS abandoning them. On Rigil Kentarus and Port Moseby the fighting is also dying down by the end of May with the Lyran and Draconis Combine forces settling in for the long haul securing defensive positions.
The Draconis Combine attempted to get the Lyran Alliance’s attention away from retaking all the worlds by assaulting the Isle of Skye via Ko, a former world of Lyon’s Thumb which the Draconis Combine annexed in 3064. On Ko however they find the Regiments under the Isle of Skye control, which had been left behind by the Lyran Alliance State forces. The Isle of Skye forces ready to show they are more than prepared for hard combat and the defence of their homes. On the 6th May they give the Draconis Combine a heavy beating destroying the Forty-forth Dieron Regulars and heavily damaging the Haruna, one of the Combine’s Kyushu-class Frigates, in the process of throwing the DCMS forces back into the Draconis Combine.
These battles show the entire Inner Sphere how the defence, and offence, of the Lyran Alliance will be concluded in the future. It also shows that the Lyran Alliance High Command and Nobility are willing to give the Isle of Skye a great amount of latitude in how it operates in its semi-independent state and operates its own military in a completely different manner than the LAAF High Command.
Martial Olympiad Grounds
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
18th May 3070
Although many of the more advanced facilities are not yet completed and many of the competitors are still housed in their DropShips or in field tents the Second Martial Olympiad begins on Defiance, its new permanent home. At a special opening display put on by the Royal Black Watch and Knights of the Inner Sphere Regiments and their attached air wing First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion opens the competition. With units from across the Inner Sphere, Periphery and Clans present it is a little disappointing that Victor (as First Lord of the Star League and First Prince of the Federated Suns), SLDF Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion and Kai Allard-Liao are the only leaders of any factions present. Many attribute this lack of leaders present due to the low intensity fighting that has become common place in the Inner Sphere, more recently between the Lyran Alliance and Draconis Combine, and the continued fighting on Terra has put important people off travelling to Defiance. Also as all the facilities are not complete they would be forced to remain in their DropShips or rough it during their stay.
Undeterred the contractors continue their work throughout the competition working on the grounds, the adjoining spaceport and the Star League Advisory Council Chambers. During the competition the Commanding-General and First Prince discuss adding a higher education school and a training complex to the facility. Victor agrees with Morgan that this is needed however only if Federated Suns Outback and St Ives peoples are allowed to attend the facilities as well. As the Federated Suns’ Outback is notorious for its low education and the St Ives Compact has not enough money for its own advanced centres the Commanding-General soon agrees with the plans and funding is split between all three realms and plans are made for more construction work.
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Gravity Deck - Trial of Position
Tsunami (Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser)
Jarnfolk Space, Periphery
4th June 3070
Stepping into the circle of warriors Khan Barbara Sennet, leader of Clan Diamond Shark, stared over at the massive hulking Elemental Warrior Hanna Coston, the warrior who had challenged her authority once too much with the last challenge ending with this Trial. “Who is the one willing to attempt to take the mantle of Clan Diamond Shark?†She asked never taking her eyes off Hanna Coston.
“I, Hanna Coston, am the challenger.†She said like Barbara Sennet her eyes never strayed from her opponent.
“And why do you call this challenge?†She asked ensuring all the warriors surrounding saw why this Trial would take place ensuring they would not attempt Trials for silly reasons, something common in other Clans.
“Barbara Sennet, you have served this Clan honourably and proudly sending us down a path that will ensure the growth of our Clan and its future for decades to come. This vessel is testament to what you have accomplished.†Hanna Coston said raising her huge arms to the massive gym on the equally huge gravity deck of the massive Potemkin-class vessel. Like the other Diamond Shark vessels this vessel, the Tsunami, was undergoing extensive refits for its new role within the changing Diamond Shark Clan. “However as we proudly step into a bright new horizon there are those of us who believe that our Clan needs a new Khan, a younger Khan, you have been offered retirement to the Merchant Caste but refused, this is the last resort. One last time I offer you the honourable path, join the Merchants and continue to serve our Clan.â€
“After leading our Khan I could never there would be too much…†she paused fighting for the right word “awkwardness on both sides. I will be Khan or nothing.†She said sealing her own fate, Barbara noticed Hanna move uneasily killing ones Khan was never something a warrior wanted to do even if they would be Khan in the end.
“Seyla.†Hanna Coston whispered honouring the Khan’s request and signalling she was ready for the following battle. Moments after Barbara had repeated the word ‘Seyla’ Hanna Coston was on the offensive moving quickly in with several blows. The old Khan had no response for the blows and although she was still fit and capable of fighting years of being a diplomat and politician had dulled Barbara Sennet’s reflexes enough to give Hanna Coston an advantage without her superior strength inherent in an Elemental. The trial was one sided from the start and within a minute Hanna had her arms around Barbara’s throat, with one fluid motion she snapped the former-Khan’s neck ending the Trial quickly and with as little suffering as possible.
“Hail Khan Hanna Coston!†The vessel’s commander said stepping forward as Barbara Sennet’s lifeless body fell to the ground the warriors making the circle chanted the world Seyla and cheered her victory however Hanna raised her arms silencing the crowd of her fellow clansmen.
“Hail Barbara Sennet! Honour her as she honoured us. Make sure we never forget what she did for us.†She said all the warriors became very silent bowing their heads then in unison they uttered the word ‘Seyla’ ending the ceremony for all time. Instead of lower castemen removing the body of the dead Khan six MechWarriors moved forward and removed the former-Khan’s body. She would be honoured and with her DNA filling the Clan’s Iron Wombs she would, in a way, live forever.
Galisteo, Trinity Worlds
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Former Free Worlds League
7th June 3070
News Report - The violence on the Trinity Worlds began spiralling out of control when what started as a dispute over new taxes exploded into a full-scale rebellion after the infamous “Bad Rock Massacre.†With Duchy of Tamarind-Abby military forces deployed to keep the new nation secure from the other Free Worlds League Remnant, Lyran Alliance and Cirincus Federation and Swann’s Cavaliers mercenary unit spread thinly between Cerillos, Galisteo and Sierra, the situation became a stalemate. Rebels and the governments remaining loyal militia units (with Mercenary support) engaged in small-scale raids and reprisals, but neither side achieved much expect adding to the growing list of casualties.
All that changed in April, when Camacho’s Caballeros (formally known as the Seventeenth Recon Regiment) arrived on Galisteo, under the command of Colonel Carlos Camacho, patron of the Vado Ancho hacienda and Knight of Galisteo. Like their commander, many members of the Caballeros hail from the Trinity Worlds. When Don Carlos received word of the unfolding events on his home world, he requested and received release from his unit’s contract with Tanadi Computers (a sub-group of Hachiman Taro Electronics in the Draconis Combine). Unprepared for the intervention by a well-equipped mercenary regiment, half the Cavaliers’ aerospace assets got caught on the ground, and their Charlie Battalion was overwhelmed.
Since the Caballeros’ victory, Camacho has accepted the post of President of Galisteo’s new provisional government, and has retired from the mercenary trade.
The disposition of the surviving members of Swann’s Cavaliers remains a mystery. Rumours abound that their forces on Sierra and Cerillos have abandoned their posts and departed aboard unmarked DropShips, even though pockets of violence persists on both worlds.
Avalon City General Medical Centre
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
17th June 3070
While the Diamond Sharks celebrate new leadership in their new Khan’s victory in the Federated Suns another family are celebrating a change in their lives and some new arrivals. In the early morning Faith Steiner, Reinhart Steiner’s wife, gives birth to twins a son and daughter, Richard and Ariana. Both are born two months premature but under the care of one of Avalon City’s best hospitals both are strong and healthy. In the days following the birth of the children Faith permanently resigns her commission with the AFFS dedicating her future to the care of her children. Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner returns from the Martial Olympiad on Defiance at the end of the month to spend some times with his wife and children.
Clan Wolf (in-Exile) enclave (Wolf City)
Arc-Royal, Arc-Royal Theatre
Lyran Alliance
30th June 3070
As with other places across the Inner Sphere on Arc-Royal’s Clan Wolf (in-Exile) capital, Wolf City, also celebrates a new beginning with the birth of a freeborn child. Unlike Clan Nova Cat's leadership who announced their Khan's child to the general Clan but hid the birth behind visions Phelan Kell knows that even his Exiled Wolves would find it hard to accept a freeborn born to their Khan instead. He and Ranna Kerensky agree the child will be brought up in one of the Freeborn creches on Arc-Royal. There free from any family involvement or interference the child will have the chance to grow and choose their own path. Evan Wolf becomes the newest addition to Freeborn Creche Six, his heritage kept secret to but a few son of a Kell and a Kerensky, only the events of the future could limit his potential.
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Word of Blake Militia Command/Ruling Conclave
Hilton Head Island, North America
Terra, Chaos March
3rd July 3070
The First Centuri Lancers and two cobbled together ComGuard Divisions move on Hilton Head island, the Capital of the Word of Blake on Terra, they are completely unmolested and they take Hilton Head Island with not a single shot fired. As it appears that the Word of Blake have given up all hope of resisting the forces arrayed against them.
In the air over the facility an Excalibur-class DropShip is shot down by ComGuard aerospace fighters. Following a search of the Hilton Head area there is no sign of the Word of Blake leadership however there is an indication that they were onboard the DropShip. ComStar officially list them as missing.
Inner End System
Raven Alliance, Periphery
18th July 3070
On a routine patrol of their newly captured territories the Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser/Carrier Arc Royal encounters the Federated Suns vessel FSS Tarncredi VI attempting to hide from Snow Raven and Outworlds Alliance patrols while scanning the ground movements of Raven Alliance troops. The Arc Royal deploys its fighters and DropShips intent on disabling and capturing the vessel to attain its exact intentions however the Tarncredi VI attempts to charge its K-F Drive escape only to be destroyed by the Arc Royal’s forward gunners firing Naval Autocannons into the Hound-class Corvette breaking its back shattering the delicate K-F Drive consuming the vessel in an explosion. The Storm Crow Galaxy, of Clan Snow Raven, then jumps the Raven Alliance/Federated Suns border with the Alliance Grenadiers, of the Outworlds Alliance, in support. The combined force then drops onto Bastrop just over the border securing it quickly finding little sport in the local militia forces. The Raven forces aboard the Arc Royal then jump to the nearby Kilborne system to make sure the Federated Suns get their message.
Using the fighters and DropShip of the Arc Royal to destroy the Screaming Eagles Mercenary Regiment and the Kilborne Training Battalion stationed on the planet and to bomb the local militia bases. The Arc Royal itself sat in orbit using its guns to down any DropShip attempting to leave the system and to level the local ComStar HPG complex with some careful orbital bombardment. During the attack they broadcasting a message warning the people of the Federated Suns that if the Raven Alliance territory is violated again then it will mean war and with that, and the destruction of the Screaming Eagles, they leave returning to the newly expanded Raven Alliance territories.
Several days later First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and the rest of the AFFS High Command hear of this attack, the Davion Heavy Guards RCT, the Second Crucis Lancers RCT and three WarShips are immediately deployed to the area mostly to ensure the local Davion population feel safe with better support. Duke Tarncred Sandoval of Robinson also takes his First Robinson Rangers RCT to the Raven Alliance border worlds to protect his March from further attacks by the Raven Alliance. Hearing of the Duke’s repositioning of his forces Victor warns Tarncred not to attack the Raven Alliance with the forces at his disposal, the Federated Suns are not ready for that fight Tarncred Sandoval acknowledges his First Prince‘s call and promises that his forces are there only to augment the Federated Suns forces already in position to defend the Draconis March borders.
Open North American Desert
One Kilometre South Unity City
Terra, Chaos March
12th August 3070
Leading what was left of his Elite First Division Cameron St. Jamis piloted his customized Awesome, a eighty ton Assault BattleMech forward towards their goal, and potential safety, Unity City the Capital of the old Star League. Unity City had been risen from the Mid-Western Deserts of North America during the time of the original Star League and been the seat of Terran Rule throughout the Terran Hegemony and the Star League-era, the richest most advanced city of its time. During the Amaris Coup the city had fallen to the rages of the Rim Worlds Republic forces with the mighty skyscrapers being felled by the jealous periphery troops, the population driven out by the chaos. During Kerensky’s liberation the city had taken another massive beating as SLDF and Rim Worlds Republic troops fought over the scraps of the city.
When the Star League had fallen and the Succession Wars had begun the gates to Unity City had been sealed an no-one ventured inside throughout the centuries since the fall of the First Star League ComStar, and later the Word of Blake, had kept up around the clock patrols ensuring no-one opened the City only the First Lord of the Star League had that right and so far the Second Star League had resisted this temptation, mainly through fear of the Word of Blake’s control over Terra. That control would soon end however, three years of constant fighting against ComStar, their heretic brothers, had destroyed the Word of Blake first in space, then Mars and now on Terra. Some of the Word of Blake’s resources were still active in the Free Worlds League under the watchful gaze of the Master however Terra would soon be lost and they would be destroyed if they revealed themselves, the great plan, the Word of Blake itself had failed its believers.
Moving forward Cameron looked down at his instruments seeing a group of new contacts on his Mech’s advanced sensors, each identified themselves as members of the ComGuard’s First Division. “So this is how it ends, McGillaray’s Legion stand before my True Devotion†Cameron whispered naming the two Divisions by their nickname instead of their official designation’s. It was the way he preferred to think of his troops, the way the troops thought of themselves as troops of a unit not of an army forces of some political faction.
The ComGuard’s McGillaray’s Legion was the first ComStar Militia unit ever to be created and the Word of Blake’s True Devotion was formed by the first members of the ComGuard to defect to the Word of Blake. Both units were the Elite of their respective orders and looking at the figures Cameron could see that both sides were near equal in numbers. “The way it should end.†Cameron whispered switching his communication grid to transmit to address the ComGuard commander. “This is Cameron St. Jamis commander of the True Devotion, Primus Warlord of Terra†he said he had claimed the title following the Ruling Conclave being listed as missing, presumed dead, by ComStar forces following the DropShip being shot down by ComGuard fighters. “Who commands the forces in front of me? Who is ready to feel the wrath of the Word of Blake and open our way to Unity City?â€
“This is Precentor Peter McGillaray, commander of the First Division of the Sixth Army and most senior ground commander of the ComGuard remaining standing on Terra. The Word of Blake forces are ordered to stand down and face the charge of wanton destruction, atrocities against humanity, breach of international law and being a royal pain in my ass.†The ComGuard commander said Cameron was impressed that a ComStar Division commander had lived this long, his troops had been under orders to target ComStar Division Commanders as often as possible leading to the deaths of many in the opening weeks and helping prolonging the fight. Scanning the enemy forces Cameron found the reason for McGillaray still walking the field two seventy ton Shootist Bodyguard BattleMechs, two one hundred ton Clan-built Dire Wolf Assault OmniMechs all guarding a ninety ton Highlander Assault BattleMech and a Mobile HQ. Probably the heaviest force in the entire ComStar forces, soon to be turned to ash. Cameron sent tight-beam laser transmitted messages to all his troops to target these six units with a massive barrage of weapons fire ignoring everything else until they were destroyed.
“Allow me to remove that for you†Cameron said accelerating his Mech forward to its top speed fifty-four kilometres per hour “True Devotion, Fire!†He shouted firing both of his own Mech’s Heavy Particle Projection Cannons and both arm mounted light PPCs. Even under the massive amount of fire hitting the targets Cameron saw one particle bolt burn into the shoulder of one Dire Wolf while the other struck the Highlander dead centre, the lighter two PPCs struck the same targets. As soon as his weapons cycled Cameron fired again, as did all Word of Blake forces, this time he hit the other Dire Wolf and the Mobile HQ. As he charged forward Cameron realised that none of the Mechs he had hit had gone down and none were returning fire, even under the massive barrages. Cameron slowed his pace to look at the targets as all five Mechs began to fall and the Mobile HQ exploded in a ball of flame, none had fired a single shot or moved an inch before being hit, his Men were good but not that good. “Too easy†Cameron said out loud not noticing the comm. was still active.
“At least you realise your mistake before your death. ComGuards, rats are in trap, fire!†McGillaray said over the comm. how he had survived that barrage and was still transmitting was beyond Cameron. Suddenly he realised what was going on as dozens of artillery rounds slammed into the ground around him spurting out smoke and then literally hundreds of sensor locks were reported on his Mech as Battle Armour, BattleMechs and Vehicles all rose out of the desert sands and began firing using the cover of the smoke to raise unmolested. Cameron saw a twenty ton Stinger raise in front of him and sent a particle cannon shot and a tight group of SRMs into the light Mech, it fell back down onto its face but started to get up again..
“True Devotion charge, we must make it to Unity City!†He shouted into the communication system however even he knew it was too late as weapons fire began to tear his own Awesome to pieces all around him. Fighting his way forward Cameron didn’t stop firing his weapons, the computers screamed of overheat but he continued slapping the overrides charging forward refusing to stop or give up. As his Mech began to clear the smoke Cameron could see the towers of Unity City less than five hundred Metres away however between him and his goal was a firing line of six ComStar Assault Mechs led by an one hundred ton Grand Crusader, a Word of Blake design.
“You know I did want to take you prisoner, put you on trial and make the entire Inner Sphere see just how insane you really are.†McGillaray said as the Grand Crusader stepped forward one step “But that was never going to happen, was it?†He asked “you know it’s a shame all you had to do was adapt to the world around you, the Word did make some nice tech.†McGillaray taunted raising his Grand Crusader’s weapons Cameron looked at his own weapons array, both Heavy PPCs damaged beyond recognition, left arm completely gone, knee actuator on the right destroyed reducing his speed and mobility. All he had left was a single light particle cannon and his Streak launcher in the torso. He even saw his C3i Computer mounted in the Awesome’s head was damaged. Reaching down to his side Cameron picked up his Broadsword, it was something that had been with him since he was a junior member of ComStar and he had kept it in meticulous condition. Holding the weapon in his right hand Cameron stomped on his Mech‘s accelerator and charged the ComGuard line.
The ComStar firing line opened fire in unison cutting into every limb of his Mech tearing them clear of the body then finally hitting the torso and head, because of the damage already done and the variety of weapons involved no-one was quite sure who had killed Cameron however on the 12th August 3070, Precentor-Martial Cameron St. Jamis was proclaimed dead less than four hundred metres from Unity City. Not a single Mech, vehicle or ground trooper of the Word of Blake’s First Division: The True Devotion made it to Unity City, and none were taken prisoner, one hundred percent casualties recorded. The highest ground war fatality rate in the entire ComStar/Word of Blake conflict when no Weapons of Mass Destruction had been employed. The Battle for Terra was not over but the Word of Blake were dead, from now on there was no going back from this.
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Castle Brian, Heibei Administrative District HQ
T’ienchen, China
Terra, Chaos March
16th August 3070
With the death of their Precentor-Martial and the destruction of the First Division the Word of Blake, and the mercenaries hired by them, begin to fight a desperate no-holds barred fight for survival from the persistent ComStar and Allied Mercenary Command forces. During the fighting around the Chinese Castle Brian in the Heibei Administrative District the ComGuard, AMC and Terran Security Forces that had joined them positively identified Free Capella Forces and Mechs carrying the Wannamaker’s Widowmakers Mercenary Regiment amongst the Word of Blake forces although outnumbering the ComGuard forces the Blakists were constantly falling back closer and closer to the Castle Brian knowing that if they could retreat inside the fortress they could hole up for months raiding the ComStar formations and bases in the area hampering further efforts to liberate the world causing more damage. Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht ordered his ground commanders not to allow the Word of Blake to hole up in the structure and to use any necessary conventional force, not including the use of nuclear weapons, to stop the Word of Blake.
With elements of the Dismal Disinherited, Lindon’s Battalion, Northwind Highlanders and the Twenty-first Centuri Lancers supporting them ComStar was constantly pushing forward the Word of Blake forces sprung their trap first two whole fighter squadrons strafed the rear lines of ComStar and their allies laying down a massive curtain of inferno fire-bombs creating an area big enough to destroy anything that entered, then from within the Castle Brian one nuclear bomb and one neutron bomb both exploded wiping out everything within ten square kilometres in one instant. This caused the destruction of the Castle Brian, the nearby city T’ienchen, deaths of the remains of the Twenty-first Centuri Lancers, Lindon’s Battalion and a battalion each of the Highlanders and the Disinherited. ComStar also lost nearly two dozen warriors of various destroyed Divisions.
Following this battle there was several reports of Free Capella forces disappearing into the Chinese Mountains however none took this seriously following the devastation left by the Word of Blake’s Scorched Earth Tactic. This defeat of the Word of Blake effectively ended the Word of Blake’s resistance in Asia and Australasian freeing both continents within hours the Word of Blake had recalled all surviving forces from Asia, Australasian, Africa and South America to Europe their last strongholds on Terra Sandhurst Military Base in the United Kingdom.
Sandhurst Plains, England
Europe, Terra, Chaos March
18th August 3070
Finally the battle of Terra was nearing its end ComStar and its allies had driven the Word of Blake back at every turn the Ruling Conclave was missing, presumed dead, Cameron St. Jamis the Precentor-Martial/Warlord Primus of Terra was dead at the hands of the ComGuard outside Unity City and the Word of Blake’s Free Capella Allies were destroyed in the Chinese mountains. Now all that was left standing was an over strength Division of Word of Blake BattleMechs supported by infantry, armour and Artillery. Standing beside them were the mercenary units Kasparov’s Knights and Redfield’s Renegades giving them roughly two more Regiments worth of Mechs, Armour and more infantry. Arrayed around them were the First and Eighty-fifth Divisions of ComStar including elements of the Twenty-first Centuri Lancers, elements of all three Dismal Disinherited Regiments of the AMC, the Northwind Highlanders Northwind Hussars and the Wolf’s Dragoons Zeta Battalion.
Instead of making use of the Castle Brian Fortification at Sandhurst the Word of Blake Forces set up battle-lines opposite ComStar and its Allies ready to fight one final battle honourably. There is no communication between the sides before the beginning of the battle however it is soon entered by all parties all intent on destroying their opposition.
After eighteen hours both sides are devastated with heavy casualties registered in every command however ComStar and the forces of the Allied Mercenary Command hold the field with the remaining dozen or so Word of Blake Mechs and perhaps an equal amount of vehicles surrendering under their guns ready to face the charges brought by ComStar. With the Battle of Sandhurst Plains over the Liberation of Terra is officially complete, although battles continue for days afterwards as renegade warriors continue to fight until they are put down by ComStar, AMC and Terra Security Forces.
Three days after the end of the Battle ComStar calls for assistance from the Star League Defence Force for immediate Humanitarian Aid for the people of Terra, a world and a population devastated by war. Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion immediately authorises the deployment of the Seventy-seventh and Seventy-eighth Special Operations Battalions of the Special Armed Services Division of the SLDF these forces more commonly known as the Killer Bees and Devil’s Advocates known for their ability to clean up and dispose of Nuclear weapons. With them Morgan also sends six hospital converted DropShips full of Sphere Red Cross Doctors and Nurses to help alleviate the suffering of the people of Terra.
CSJS Uniting Breeze, Invader-class JumpShip
Nadir Recharge Point, Freedom System
Isle of Skye, Lyran Alliance
8th September 3070
On her way to Terra for the first time in twelve years, to celebrate the liberation of the world from the Word of Blake and begin the rebuilding process, Primus of ComStar Shori Mori is found dead in her Stateroom aboard the JumpShip Uniting Breeze by ship‘s stewards. Suspecting foul play the vessel holds position at the Freedom System Nadir Point while a full investigation and autopsy can be carried out.
After eight days sitting at the Nadir Point and the Arrival of Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht from Terra on the 16th September and makes an announcement via the HPG network. “People of the Inner Sphere, just over a week ago Primus Shori Mori the leader of ComStar has passed away en route to Terra. Primus Mori was en-route to Terra to help ComStar begin healing the wounds on Terra and to set about rebuilding the shattered homeworld of Humanity and to build this world a place in the Inner Sphere too long has Terra sat alone in the darkness.†Anastasius Focht paused looking down at his podium then looked back at the camera “Today a ComStar coroner and investigation team concluded that the Primus died of a naturally occurring brain aneurysm and that there are no suspicious circumstances. ComStar’s thoughts go out to Shori’s surviving family, wherever they may be.†Again he paused brushing a strand of his long silver hair away from his face then looked back at the camera again “today at the request of ComStar’s provisional council I have accepted the position of Primus Pro-Tem. I will hold the dual positions of Primus and Precentor-Martial until the ComStar Council can reconvene on Terra in a couple of weeks for an official vote. Thank you and may peace be with you wherever you are†he said stepping off the podium the image was replaced with the white daggered opal against a black background.
Towards the end of the month ComStar’s Ruling Council meets and formally places Anastasius Focht as the new Primus of ComStar. As his first order of business Focht steps down as Precentor-Martial of ComStar and names Precentor Peter McGillaray, commander of the First Division and the most senior ComGuard Division Commander surviving, as the new Precentor-Martial of ComStar. ComStar also beings the rebuilding process by retaking control of the HPGs nearest Terra in the surrounding Chaos March and Star League Protectorate Worlds.
Martial Olympiad Grounds
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
11th September 3070
As ComStar celebrate the liberation of Terra, and the eradication of the Word of Blake, and mourn the loss of Primus Shori Mori; The Star League Defence Force continues with the Martial Olympiad competition on Defiance with First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion pointing out that although Star League Forces were at this very moment en route to Terra to help with humanitarian relief efforts Terra was just one world and the Martial Olympiad was for everyone.
While the competition continues it becomes apparent that it is a competition between three Successor States for the title the Lyran Alliance, Draconis Combine and Federated Suns while other forces battle it out for the minor prizes and grudge matches. The Lyran Alliance contingent led by General of Armies Keane Sortek defeats the Draconis Combine contingent in a Company vs. Company level event.
The Star League also celebrates as First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion presides over the opening of the first block of the new Defiance/Star League Spaceport facility attached to the Martial Olympiad grounds. Although it will take years for the facility to be fully operational this marks a major step forward for the Martial Olympiad and the Advisory Councils permanent status on Defiance. Work beginning on the planned Training Base and College are delayed until after the end of the Martial Olympiad so the workers who built the Spaceport’s first section can enjoy the rest of the competition.
Medical Facility
Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City), Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
14th September 3070
On the same day as a friendly match between Magistracy of Canopus forces and Capellan Confederation forces at the Martial Olympiad, staged for pure entertainment of the crowds as the Capellan Public Relations team work their magic, the Capellan Confederation and Magistracy of Canopus have something else to celebrate as Magestix Naomi Centrella gives birth to Dao-Shen Liao her first child to Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao. Congratulations messages from throughout the Inner Sphere arrive on Sian within hours of the release of the news as is standard protocol for such an event.
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McKenna Shipyards of Kathil
High Orbit, Kathil
Capellan March, Federated Suns
21st September 3070
The McKenna Shipyards of Kathil had been around for centuries upon centuries they had survived the Succession Wars damaged but still operational and since the discovery of the Helm Memory Core they had been fully rebuilt to their former glory. With main power beamed up to the shipyards from Microwave Generators placed all across the planet below the shipyards were able to concentrate on building WarShips. Crew Chief/Engineer Harold Kim had been working at the Kathil Shipyards for eighteen years he’d seen the first keel of the first Avalon-class Cruiser laid down and had been present at every single Avalon launch to date he’d even been called out and done some structural work on the FSS Robert Davion before the Capellans had destroyed it a couple of years previously during the Battle of Ares.
Inside the Federated Suns outside the design team of the Avalon-class Cruisers Harold Kim considered himself to be one of the foremost minds on the Cruiser. This made today a special day and a little bit of a bittersweet one because today Harold retired at the age of sixty-two soon he and his wife would move away from Kathil and he would never see the shipyards or any of the Avalons again. Thinking about it almost brought a tear to his eye but he fought it back he knew to loose concentration on the Shipyards could, and probably would, mean your death. Thoughts about today and the memories of his time here would be for another day.
“What do you mean I’m with a damned trainee! This is my god-damned last damn day!†Harold screamed at the Dock Officer for the day Cynthia Graham his immediate boss. “I was scheduled for some EVA on the Melissa Steiner-Davion!†He said mentioning the vessel being built to honour the wife of Hanse Davion and the mother of the current First Prince, Victor Steiner-Davion.
“Well we’re cutting the entire EVA operation for today, budget cuts. So I have a dozen spare bodies and what better for you to do on your last day than to show around the man who will replace you.†Cynthia said smiling Harold could feel his blood boil he’d wanted to touch one of the Avalon’s before his retirement but he’d been robbed from it by a penny pusher office monkey and there was nothing he could do to fight it either.
“Who the hell am I showing about?†He said resigned to his fate.
“A new body to the company Jamie Kingston, they are waiting for you in the recreation room, have a fun last day old timer.†Cynthia said as Harold stalked out of the office and headed for the shift recreation room down the corridor. As he’d expected it was abandoned except for a single person sitting on the chair, it wasn’t who he’d expected. Sitting on the chair with her feet up on the table was a young woman, she was in her late twenties maybe early thirties, with short blond hair, shapely legs and large round breasts barely held back by her work jacket. Harold ignored her and scanned the room no-one else here ‘damnit’ he thought.
“Looking for someone honey?†The young woman asked looking up at him.
“The new body on the line Jamie Kingston.†He said gruffly, what the hell would she know she was new herself from the look of her uniform.
“That’s me.†She said leaping to her feet her breasts jumping as she moved quickly.
“This has gotta be a joke†Harold said before he could think of what to say “where the hell is the damned camera? I’m not falling for this guys!†he called out waiting for the crew gang to appear from their hidden places, no-one appeared.
“This isn’t a joke.†She said “I’m ready to start when you are.†She said looking at him picking up her hard hat.
“And you’d know where to start on a shipyard dock?†he asked looking her over she smiled as she watched him look at her body.
“I spent three years at the Galax Shipyards before coming here including structural work on three Fox-class Corvettes and one of the new Hound-class vessels. I think I can handle whatever you want to throw at me.†She said.
“Well Galax is a lot different from here trust me, so don’t expect to instantly make the grade come on we’ll soon see if you match up†Harold said without another word he turned and headed out. For most of the morning he was pointing out the dangerous points around and what she should keep her eye out for Harold noticed Jamie took note of everything she saw, ‘maybe she would cut it’ he’d thought more than once. As they walked around Jamie pointed out something in the corner of one of the orbital warehouses inside of the largest Gravity Decks in the entire station.
“What’s that?†She asked inquisitively Harold didn’t have a clue but whoever had left it there would get trouble no-one left anything near a wall in the warehouse it was a fire hazard for a start.
“Don’t know, let’s have a look.†He said wondering over he noticed a wire sticking out of the zipper on the top it was a carry bag less than half a metre across. As he unzipped it to his horror Harold realised what it was reaching for his radio “Control, Sierra Nine, Code Omega Warehouse six-three-seven, evacuating immediate area close all doors behind us†he said into his the microphone moving back from the bag “we need to go†he said to Jamie his voice quivering slightly he could see in her facial expressions that she was scared she’d read her safety manual a ‘Code Omega’ was a bomb alert. Together they ran in the low gravity environment of the gravity deck it was difficult and soon Harold could feel a rumbling then hear an explosion “Hell!†he screamed grabbing Jamie around the waist catapulting her into one of the escape pod hatches they were not getting out of here on foot.
Once inside the pod Harold felt at least six more explosions rock the station just before he pulled the release rocketing the pod away from the facility. Out the emergency windows he could see explosions ripple through the gravity decks decompressing every single warehouse on the ring and the adjoining ring fire wrapping the facility “hell of a way to end my career†he said quietly.
“Yeah it is†Jamie said Harold heard a clicking behind him turning he was face-to-face with a Sternsnatch Pistol.
“Jesus H. Christ!†He cursed “you have gotta be joking me!†He shouted as he saw her lips blossom into a smile.
“Not a bad way to end, you get branded a traitor, a terrorist and kill yourself unable to live with what you did.†She said smiling.
“You fire that in here and we’re both dead.†He warned her out of the corner of his eye he saw more trouble heading their way hopefully she wouldn’t notice and be unable to change the pod’s trajectory. “So your five years at Galax? A cover.†He’d known she was no-way an engineer.
“One you saw through quite quickly I think?†She asked Harold nodded “I thought so, you are a smart man Harold Kim, I would happily give you the time of your life before you die.†She offered unzipping her top showing off her body, a distraction if there ever was one.
“I’ll pass†he said quietly “I’m very happy with my Mary†he said thinking of his wife planet side.
“As you wish†she said cocking the pistol just then the trouble Harold had seen before hit the pod hundreds of tons of wreckage and equipment from the decompressing cargo bays. The seven ton escape pod was buffeted from left to right by the debris and the pod was carried along Harold made a grab for the pistol quickly ejecting the round from the chamber then the magazine he saw from Jamie’s shocked expression she hadn’t expected him to be able to do that so quickly. Moments late he saw she was still looking past him a shocked, scared look on her face.
Glancing over his shoulder he noticed a growing red wall in front of them he smiled then looked back at Jamie‘s still shocked expression “you know looks like I’ll get my wish after all.†he said quietly ‘he’d get to touch an Avalon again and the WarShip would help him get sweet revenge on this little terrorist’ as the pod slammed into the Avalon’s port side along with dozens of containers, although the pod was designed to survive such an impact it wasn’t designed to survive being crushed between a seven hundred thousand ton WarShip and a moving hundred ton container it was crushed into a million pieces by the impact killing Harold Kim and his would be assassin/terrorist.
Following the attack both Harold and Jamie were both listed as missing-in-action, believed dead, Jamie’s cover was blown soon after during the following investigation her true identity was never uncovered although DMI and MIIO investigators did find a link between the explosives and the Capellan Confederation leading to the deployment of half a dozen Rabid Fox teams to the Confederation for retaliation strikes. The damage caused to the Kathil yards would delay construction efforts by up to five years on all vessels being built.
Nova Cat Construction/Upgrade Station
Varnay System, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
30th September 3070
As the Federated Suns was cursing their bad luck following the terrorist attack/sabotage on the McKenna Shipyards in the Kathil system the Nova Cat Clan celebrate the re-launching of the captured Jade Falcon vessel Gauntlet, Liberator-class Cruiser, as their brand-new Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser. The Gauntlet renamed the Santin West in honour of the Nova Cat’s fallen-Khan is the fourth Anna Rosse-class vessel to come online for the Nova Cat Clan Touman and the sixth vessel in the class to exist, the two others being in service with Clan Wolf the Victoria Ward and Jerome Winston respectfully.
The Santin West is unique in the Anna Rosse-class however as it is the first vessel to feature the newly developed Clan Hell’s Horses designed 20-rated Heavy Assault Gauss Rifle systems that replace the LB-class Heavy Autocannons on standard models. Following several successful tests of these new weapons and the far increased effectiveness of anti-fighter defence, because of the weapons, Khan Canin Rosse orders that all Nova Cat Anna Rosse-class vessels be upgraded to this new configuration.
First Filtvelt Guardians Firebase, Filtvelt
Filtvelt Coalition, Periphery
4th October 3070
Citizens of the Outback Unite. This phrase, or one like it, has been used countless times to inspire people to join forces against a common threat, people who do not realise they have as much in common as they truly do. People unaware of the strengths too focused on their individualism and isolationism. But that is who we are.
For centuries now we have all suffered under the neglect of our ‘sovereign.’ They constantly war with neighbours, often hundred of light-years from us. They come to take our children, our resources and our precious few riches with empty promises in return. We receive empty gestures, under-funded projects and education, hallmarked by incompetence and lack of commitment.
We ask ourselves, when will it be our turn? We pay our taxes and contribute to ‘our’ nation everyday, we pull our weight and then some for the team, an alliance wrought centuries ago, and still for all our hardships we receive nothing.
Although our hardships, the pirates that plague our worlds, have disappeared recently to just a trickle from the ‘Lady Death’ Trevaline’s Pirate Cluster continuing we still need protection we need protection. The AFFS have promised us defences, the formation of more training battalions and a better equipped militia we have received nothing. Today we received orders to move the Filtvelt Training Battalion, the largest AFFS BattleMech force in the area, to the Raven Alliance Border to reinforce the AFFS forces there in case of a push from Clan Snow Raven.
We are all tired of waiting for House Davion to send us alms, band-aids and crackers to deal with our problems. We can no longer afford to give while receiving nothing in return.
If the AFFS is so eager to abandon us, we no longer owe them enough to follow these orders. Thus effective immediately the First Filtvelt Training Battalion will form the core of the First Filtvelt Guardians, a force dedicated to the protection of our neighbours, and the destruction of the pirates we face. It is being joined by the Filtvelt Militia and local forces of the Skepptana and Marielund. Together we will forge a military coalition to oppose any and all invaders including any AFFS forces that choose to try and bring us under the heel of House Davion once more.
We ask all of you to join us, for our mutual defence. It is time we provide for ourselves. Together we can face any threat and defeat it.
Respectfully
Colonel Erich LeBeau
Official communiqué issued from the office of the Kommandant, Filtvelt Training Academy, to “all military, paramilitary and mercenary forces in the Broken Wheel PDZ, Federated Suns.â€
This letter sent shockwaves through the Federated Suns Outback region within hours of its official release many were calling for their worlds to join the newly formed Filtvelt Coalition while others were calling for the AFFS to land on Filtvelt and impose martial law over the world and arrest Colonel LeBeau and Marquees Helen Trempealeau the leader of a well known Filtvelt Independence Movement.
Through the storm of this infighting in the Royal Court and High Command on New Avalon First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion makes a decision. Ordering the Third NAIS Cadre Regiment to Broken Wheel itself he orders the FSS Filtvelt, Hound-class Corvette, to rendezvous with the FSS New Avalon, Whirlwind Block II-class Destroyer, and escort him to Filtvelt. The First Prince himself will travel to Filtvelt and hear the people’s thoughts and troubles. With Victor travels the First Davion Guards RCT which leaves a single Battalion to defend the Royal Palace as is tradition. Word that Victor Steiner-Davion is travelling to Filtvelt with two WarShips and an entire Regimental Combat Team quickly circulates the Federated Suns, fear spreads that Victor will pound the break-away Filtvelt worlds into nothing with his hammer, the First Davion Guards. In the background on New Avalon the Varnay family and their ally Field Marshal Roger William Waters move quietly against the First Prince continuing efforts to undermine Victor and the AFFS High Command.
Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City), Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
10th October 3070
With the First Prince busy dealing with Periphery worlds breaking from the Federated Suns Field Marshal George Hasek goes behind Victor Steiner-Davion’s back and orders his Capellan Assassin codenamed Agent Tamroy to kill Naomi Centrella-Liao, Sun-Tzu Liao and Dao-Shen Liao decapitating the Capellan nation, so the Capellan March forces under the command of George himself can trundle in and capture the nation. George even has plans to turn on the St Ives Compact once he has crushed the Capellan Confederation resistance and has the Chancellor’s head on a platter. Only the quick actions of Tamroy’s controllers within the DMI on Sian are able to stop him/her before the attack saving the Federated Suns from sparking a new Succession War.
Following this incident Tamroy is recalled to Federated Suns to ensure he/she cannot be used again by someone wanting to spark a war between the Succession States. The DMI also report this incident and the loss of their highest placed Capellan Agent to the First Prince and the High Command pointing the finger for the troubles solely at the doorstep of Field Marshal George Hasek and the Capellan March.
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Keystone InterWeb
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former Free Worlds League
13th October 3070
This letter was sent to the Free Worlds League High Command on Atreus by field agents investigating references to a Word of Blake base hidden deep within the Former-Free Worlds League. It has not been made public knowledge until it was posted on the Keystone InterWeb by an anonymous source. The following is a report based on key observations by the team and addressed to former-Captain-General Thomas Marik:
Lord Thomas,
Our mutual friend has confirmed the details of the world you were interested in and we discussed in prior conversations. The Information uncovered matches your recollections and supports the proposition that it was a major centre of enemy operations until recently, perhaps even a staging post for future operations against the Free Worlds League and the wider Inner Sphere. However once we jumped in system and neared the planet, we discovered that the largest, northern continent (according to you recollections and accounts to be the host to the planet’s population and activities) was undergoing volcanic activity the likes of which I have never seen, much less imagined. Most of the continent was completely obscured by a cloud of ash, mixed with astonishing amounts of sulphur-dioxide (and a host if others I didn’t care to note). We braved atmospheric entry, only to find something my eyes could not understand. In place of a mammoth volcano (or even a super volcano, which I’m aware of), there was no single cone or ejection point we could discover; not even a crater, as I first surmised the Enemy might have used the first known instance of a strategic nuclear weapon in this war, to eradicate their presence, but accidentally set off the eruption. But this?! As far as we could determine from our cursory pass before the extreme sheer of venting and noxious gas threatened our safety, forcing us to burn back to orbit, over hundred-thousand square kilometres of land were already inundated under a flow of magma possibly tens of metres (if not hundreds) thick. And it was growing and growing and growing, literally as we watched. My comm.-officer (who knew he was a closet volcanologist aficionado), practically wet himself when he realized what we were seeing. A traps volcano. Apparently starts with a plume from the very core of the planet that sends up an overabundance of basalt magma, which pools directly underneath the crust, after which it begins working its way through various fissures, until it finally finds outlets (how long something like that might take was beyond his knowledge) and then begins flowing from such egress points in unimaginable volumes (well for me; Rodney began spouting off numbers in volumes, cube roots and I shut him down, especially when he began talking about such a basalt flood could last tens of thousands, if not millions of years!!). I did verify, however, is he confirmed that they are exceptionally rare (he’s never heard of one so late in a planet’s life cycle and knew any one of a hundred scientific organizations that would sell their mothers to observe this; he will be discreet, I have been assured) and when asked whether such a traps volcano might be caused by human hands, he laughed so hard I believe he did wet himself at that point; started spewing off about how all the nuclear weapons ever used by man was a small flame compared to with what we witnessed, and that none of that could possible effect the core in such a way to cause a plume… sorry, I’m babbling, but this is astonishing… the forces involved.
Everything is gone, as though it never existed. As far as I could surmise from our quick observations, it is though no human hand has ever touched this place. Did the Enemy simply run afoul of a cosmic karma attempting to balance out the murderous, soulless plans of the Master? Somehow, despite all the horrifyingly real evidence before me I can’t help but doubt…
Regardless… we are back to square one. And yet I refuse to believe---as I know you do also---that this was the only such world hidden away, and will continue to work through channels to discover the location and disposition of other nests.
Your Humble Servant,
E
Who sent this message is still unknown at present, the covert investigation team have never surfaced despite the fall of the fake Thomas Marik. Where they are currently located? Who this ‘Enemy’ and ‘Master’ are? And what plans they have for the future? Are unknown. SAFE and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth High Commanders have revealed the location of this world and it has been opened to scientific investigation with teams from across the Inner Sphere arriving to investigate. By all accounts some believe that this may be the fabled world of Jardine, a Free Worlds League world lost to the centuries of time from the fall of the Star League. Whatever it is effectively now a dead world beginning a transformation that may bring a whole new sense of life or death to the Inner Sphere.
Undisclosed Location
Odessa, Donegal Province
Lyran Alliance
15th October 3070
“Are you sure this is the right place? The Lyrans have been in charge of this system for centuries I think they’d have noticed something weird was going on by now.†The pilot of the small Vampire-class DropShip asked. The Vampire was the smallest vessel ever to be classified as a DropShip weighting in at four hundred tons it was decently armed, armoured and manoeuvrable for its size and due to its size it was difficult to detect, especially this far from the planet and normal space traffic. The Cargo hold had been modified to hold forty ComStar explorer corps personnel and their gear, today that had been turned over to forty ComGuard Marines wearing Aerie Clan-built Zero-G Power Armour gained from the Diamond Sharks through trade, while the vessel itself had been modified with every electronic countermeasure ever devised by man to hide it from even the most extensive sensor nets.
“This is the location on the Word of Blake Maps.†The navigator protested this was one of the first pieces of data they’d found mentioned more than a dozen times in Word of Blake records on Terra so the new Primus had ordered them to investigate as soon as possible. A Scout-class JumpShip had jumped into the system six days out at the secret pirate point indicated on Blakist maps then the smallest DropShip they could get their hands on was taken deep within the system to the location the Word of Blake knew as the Ruins of Gabriel, so far they had gotten away with it no Lyran presence or calls into the deep checking who was lurking out here.
“Well following Blakist leads is probably the most stupid idea I’ve heard of. How the hell is one DropShip and forty Marines supposed to take down a facility that apparently builds WarShips?â€
“We’re not here to take it down just find it. An assault squadron can take it down.†The navigator said looking out the window suddenly wishing the Ferro-glass was not there, this was about the eighth time they’d had this conversation.
“An assault squadron? With what? Last I heard the ComGuard had no WarShips in a usable condition, dozens ripped to crap but none active. Closest one is that Ghost Bear Destroyer that was captured during Serpent and oh wait it’s got no K-F Drive so it‘s stuck at Terra, at this rate permanently.†The pilot said raising his hands slightly the Liberation of Terra had gutted the ComGuard ground forces but had obliterated the once mighty WarShip fleet and now ComStar fielded not a single fully operational WarShip while being surrounded by the Succession Lords and distant Clans who all fielded many of the great behemoths that sailed and warred amongst the stars.
“We’ll think of something. If all comes to worst we could always hire the Dragoons WarShips.†The navigator said throwing that thought out there the pilot laughed then so did the navigator the fact that ComStar could be reduced to relying on the Dragoons for WarShip support after the long rivalry, the two had had since the Dragoons entered the Inner Sphere in the early 3000s was laughable, it was also possibly true. “Blake‘s Blood!†the navigator whispered suddenly as the sensors on the Vampire lit up as the vessel cleared some stellar debris “it can’t be true.†He whispered looking up, the pilot was hooked on the same image. Sitting there in front of them several WarShip dry-docks with three WarShips in them, all built into the asteroids. On another asteroid was another huge habitat with over a dozen gravity decks but sitting at the front was a massive vessel. “That’s the Invincible.†The Navigator whispered as the computer identification program confirmed it sitting there as the LCS Invincible, a Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser, the last of her class and the last surviving Lyran WarShip of the Succession Wars thought lost after a Battle over Hesperus II. After being missing for centuries the vessel was suddenly here repainted in the full livery of the Star League Defence Force there was no signs of its battered state when it went missing.
“This isn’t possible, we need to get out of here before they see us.†The pilot said reaching for the controls but the Navigator got there first “what are you doing?†He asked looking at the navigator angrily.
“I detect no life signs from any of the vessels or the factories and there are no guard craft in the region. Everything's dead it’s been completely abandoned.â€
“We can’t take that risk, we need to report this, this is amazing.â€
“Negative, we are going aboard the Invincible, then we will see just how amazing this is.â€
“Are you nut? That thing could have hundreds of crew and passengers just waiting for us. There is nowhere for us to dock.â€
“Stop being a coward dock us at one of the DropShip collars.†The navigator ordered the pilot showed just how much of a coward he was by following the orders despite his grievances with the plan. As the crews explored the vessel they discovered that the Invincible was in excellent shape and was fully operational. Even with such a small crew, forty highly trained crewmen cross trained as marines and the DropShip crew of eight the decision was made to take the Invincible with them just to make sure no-one else discovered a vessel like this sitting in the open unguarded. After a few days orientation they took the vessel out of the hidden anchorage and headed for the jump point used by the Scout amazingly the Invincible even had a fully charged Jump Drive. Launching the vessel into one of the hidden systems used by ComStar to charge their vessels the crew were joined by three DropShips worth of ComStar ROM personnel who helped bring the vessel back under a semblance of control and help bring the vessel back to the Ross 248 Anchorage for further analysis. ComStar was looking for several answers, where had the Word of Blake found such a vessel? Why was it painted up as a Star League vessel? And what was their plans for the secret fleet hidden at the Ruins of Gabriel?
Armistice Meeting
Ko, Lyon’s Thumb, Isle of Skye
Lyran Alliance/Draconis Combine Border
21st October 3070
Following five months of fighting the Lyran Alliance and the Draconis Combine sign an armistice following the Lyran’s regaining control of La Blon, Rigil Kentarus, Accrington with only Port Moseby remaining in Draconis Combine hands.
On the Lyran side the Eighth Donegal Guards RCT has been destroyed as have a dozen conventional regiments with survivors folded into other units to cover losses. In space lays the remains of several aerospace wings, DropShips and the WarShip LAS Katherine Steiner, Fox-class Corvette, destroyed in a conflict with two Draconis Combine WarShips where it rammed one vessel and caused enough damage to disabled the other after a single jump ending in that vessel being scuttled.
On the combine’s side two Mech Regiments and their support have been destroyed: the Twelfth District of Dieron Regulars and the Second An Ting Legions. While in space the Amber Locust, an Inazuma-class Corvette has been destroyed following a successful ram by the LAS Katherine Steiner and the Urizen II, Kirishima-class Cruiser, has been scuttled following a destroyed K-F Drive while attempting to escape from Lyran assault forces.
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First Filtvelt Guardians Firebase, Filtvelt
Filtvelt Coalition, Periphery
24th October 3070
It had taken almost two weeks for First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and his escorts to reach the world of Filtvelt. With the FSS New Avalon and FSS Filtvelt in orbit over the cities along with the First Davion Guards RCT the people of Filtvelt prepared for the worst as did the rest of the Federated Suns. If Federated Suns troops began firing on people fighting for the freedoms the Federated Suns guaranteed then it could end up beginning a civil war that would consume them all. From Orbit Victor transmits that only one DropShip will land and that he is here to talk.
Descending through the atmosphere flying low over the crowds Davion Aerospace Fighters watch for trouble despite their non-aggression messages and no targeting sensors. The crowds see a single Excalibur-class DropShip come down to land. Out of the vessel steps five Clan blue and red painted Elemental Battle Armour suits followed by First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion dressed in his full livery as a Federated Suns Marshal of Armies, with golden bars, the official uniform of the First Prince during duties as an AFFS Officer. Under the escort of the Elementals Victor approaches the crowd “I would like to speak to Colonel Erich LeBeau†he said loud enough for all to hear. Although there was a murmuring from the crowd they parted ways allowing Victor to enter the Firebase command structure properly behind three of the Elementals with two standing guard at the main doors. Victor was led to a conference room and after a quick sweep of the surrounding rooms Victor was met by Colonel Erich LeBeau and Marquees Helen Trempealeau all sat around a table in the centre of the room while one Elemental watched each door and another watched LeBeau and Trempealeau. “Quite a hornet’s nest you stirred up here.â€
“Sire, we are only wishing to look after ourselves.†Erich said raising from his chair. The Elemental watching the group raised its arm ready to defend Victor but the First Prince remained completely passive. “We have given more and more over the years to the AFFS and to House Davion and received nothing in return. Now you want my troopers to sit on the Clan border in case the Ravens jump over and decide to give us a pasting, while the very real threat of pirate attack hangs over our homes and our families on a daily basis.†Victor listened to the Colonel, he was passionate about his beliefs and his dedication to his duty to his people things Victor couldn’t help but admire, unfortunately he couldn‘t just grant them freedom either that would be showing weakness, the Federated Suns stayed together because they trusted each other and their First Prince. If Victor began allowing systems to leave forming their own nations the Federated Suns would fragment and the House of Davion would falter.
“What if we found a compromise?†Victor said quietly looking mainly at Marquees Trempealeau her face was completely neutral. “Filtvelt and the surrounding worlds want their own rule and their own people looking after them. What if I grant Filtvelt, Skepptana and Marielund their independence into this new Filtvelt Coalition…â€
“But†the Marquees said quietly a small smile creeping onto her lips.
“But†Victor said “in ten years the Coalition and the Federated Suns come back to the trading table and decide on how to continue.â€
“That isn’t independence that’s just a lease!†LeBeau said raising back to his feet again the Elemental watched them its weapons ready for a sudden movement. “We want independence from a realm more interested in making war with its neighbours at the Core of the Inner Sphere than looking after its far flung member worlds.†It stung but the words rang true, for a moment Victor considered ending this meeting with a stalemate and leaving Filtvelt maybe sending in the Davion Guards to end this independence, but then Victor thought about it listening to them and giving into their demands would cause more worlds to run, but ignoring them could tear the Federated Suns apart in the fighting that would inevitably follow.
“Fine you want independence. And I don’t want you leaving the Federated Suns a stalemate.†Victor said raising looking LeBeau in the eyes “do you think your men are ready for mine?†He said the Elemental stepped forward LeBeau took a step back and the Marquees was on her feet surprised by the First Prince’s new dangerous tone.
“Your proposal requires some thought†Helen Trempealeau said quietly motioning towards the door.
“No, it requires a decision.†Victor said stepping out from behind the desk blocking her path “if I do not receive a decision by the end of the day when my DropShip leaves this world I will have no choice but to land an entire RCT on these three worlds to forcibly maintain control.†Victor said “I do not want to rush this but the Star League Conference starts in about two weeks and I am the host.†He said the First Prince being late for the Conference would not look good.
“I have a question†Trempealeau said quietly Victor nodded “how would this ten year plan of yours work?†She asked Victor quickly suppressed a smile as he turned and sat back down again Trempealeau and LeBeau also sat down.
“I will announce that the Federated Suns and the newly Formed Filtvelt Coalition have mutually separated parties. I will announce that it is with great displeasure that this action has occurred but that the people of Filtvelt believe that independence is best for their people. I will announce that every single Federated Suns Pound and C-Bill will be withdraw from your treasury to pay for the taxes still owed to the Federated Suns and that the Filtvelt Coalition will have to pay the AFFS for the Battle Value of its military assets, risk having them seized or face an invasion…â€
“Wait you said battle value?†LeBeau said interrupting “the Battle Value of these machines will be far lower than the actual monetary value of the equipment.†He pointed out Victor could bankrupt them if he wished but that he obviously didn’t as he smiled and continued.
“…once this has been paid whatever taxes and other profits your world and those who join them will become Filtvelt funds for the people of Filtvelt and the Filtvelt Coalition Armed Forces.†Victor finished.
“And your ten year bargain?†Trempealeau asked carefully she didn’t like the idea of visiting this ten years along but then again she may not be here in that amount of time.
“In ten years we will return to this table and find out how things have gone for Filtvelt and its Coalition. If things are going well then you can remain independent however any world wishing to return to the fold will be welcome. Also under this deal any world may return to the Federated Suns at anytime without retribution from you upon risk of war.†Victor said under his idea the Federated Suns held almost every card the only thing the people of this new Coalition would have is a large degree of freedom and control of their own limited budget.
“I think this may work†Trempealeau said quietly LeBeau almost looked like he would explode with anger at her agreeing with Victor but he remained quiet after a stern look from the Marquees. “Having the Federated Suns remain on friendly terms cannot hurt us and our new Coalition has resources that would make parties not interested in deals with the Federated Suns interested in us that would bring in its own money.†Victor agreed with her reasoning and thinking about it remembered to inform the DMI to send a team here so that when those foreign national DropShips arrived they could slip trackers and agents aboard making the Coalition the perfect insertion nation. “This will work, we will make it work†the Marquees said that afternoon Victor and the Marquees made the announcement there was widespread shock around the Federated Suns at their First Prince’s move but many others that heralded Victor as a generous. Filtvelt, Skepptana and Marielund separated company with the Federated Suns that day then the next day Lackland, Gillingham and Mararn all nearby worlds joined the brining them to a of six worlds if the trend had continued Victor would have made a move to halt it further but in the days that followed experts from around the Inner Sphere and nearby worlds gave the nation six months before something befell it and the Federated Suns was forced to step in and take charge once more. With things on the Periphery sorted at least for now Victor headed back to the Federated Suns with his two WarShips and the First Davion in tow, it was time for them to welcome the rest of the Inner Sphere to New Avalon.
Geneva
Terra, Chaos March
28th October 3070
With ComStar back in complete control of Terra assisted by the Star League Defence Force and Sphere Red Cross in relief efforts ComStar begins to look beyond Terra and beyond the Chaos March worlds to the wider Inner Sphere. Although there is no way they will be able to help defend the Inner Sphere with what remains of the ComGuard they do have just enough engineers and technicians to begin work on re-establishing the HPG Communication grid at least for major worlds on the Class A network.
As ComStar techs begin moving throughout the Inner Sphere no Class A station is missed however when it comes to the Federated Suns on nearly a dozen worlds the AFFS refuse to allow the ComStar personnel into the complex and only an order from the First Prince and the ComStar threat to completely ignore the Federated Suns in the future gets the AFFS commanders to back down. ComStar directs its ROM intelligence agency to discover why the Federated Suns believed they could operate their HPGs independently however because the ROM ranks were gutted of all high ranking personnel during the Liberation of Terra they make very little headway.
By the beginning of the next Star League Conference ComStar has regained full control of the Class A HPG Network in all the Succession States and on the capital worlds of the Magistracy of Canopus, Taurian Concordat and the newly established HPG in the Fronc Reaches. ComStar makes an announcement to all realms that they will re-establish the Class B and C networks by the end of 3071.
Meanwhile the Allied Mercenary Command, which had formed to counter the Word of Blake’s take over of the worlds of the Chaos March, met one last time on Northwind at the Northwind Highlander’s command base Castle Northwind just outside the capital of Tara. Although the AMC members had fought well together they knew that the Succession Lords and the resurgent Star League Defence Force would never allow them to remain as one unit and now that their enemy was gone as was their time. By the agreement of all the commanders present the Allied Mercenary Command was disbanded and the surviving mercenaries who had formed it began licking their wounds before looking for their next pay-check.
Fifth Whitting Conference, Main Meeting Hall
Defiance City, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th November 3070
With the Star League Advisory Council Chambers complete on Defiance the Federated Suns had chosen to hold the conference on Defiance instead of the Capitol World of the Federated Suns, as other realms had done, so as soon as the Succession Lords had arrived there was a series of complaints that the Federated Suns was not complying with the rules of the Whitting Conference and not honouring the Star League however when the delegates saw the custom built facility and the views they were being given of the still continuing Martial Olympiad these fears and complaints subsided.
When she had opened the Fifth Whitting Conference Danai had informed the delegates that she would be acting as Victor’s Regent until he returned from Filtvelt in a few days, again Sun-Tzu Liao and Hohiro Kurita had complained that Victor had never taken the post of First Lord seriously or given it the respect it deserved and called for sanctions however the St Ives Compact, Lyran Alliance, ComStar and surprisingly the Taurian Concordat had all squashed this claim.
The first day’s meeting had broken up soon afterwards as the leaders of the Succession States retired to their meeting rooms for individual briefings by their representative from the Star League Advisory Council or some other meeting. Danai Centrella-Davion and Archon Peter Steiner-Davion and their respective families were able to spend some time together reuniting the two halves of the Steiner-Davion line keeping the link the two families shared still alive. Reinhart Steiner, his wife Faith and their two baby children Richard and Ariana were also present making it a truly family occasion. The only people missing were Victor still en-route from Filtvelt and Katherine still in exile with Clan Wolf.
Fifth Whitting Conference
Private Meeting Hall
Defiance City, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th November 3070
With the First Lord still not returned to New Avalon there was more time available for more individual meetings and briefings and time to enjoy the closing battles of the Martial Olympiad. With the Lyran Alliance and Draconis Combine still battling it out for the final prize following the Federated Suns loosing several key events and dropping out of the running for the top spot.
While watching one of the matches Primus Anastasius Focht and Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion were sitting inside one of the observation boxes a small table between them with two glasses and a decanter of scotch was the only thing on the table. Morgan had been surprised when Focht had asked to hold this meeting but had agreed to it, so far ComStar’s leader had said very little, Morgan decided to make his move. “So Primus Focht, what can the Star League do for ComStar today?†Focht looked over at him and smiled then looked back to the battle scene below the Lyran forces were showing their true metal today and turning the battle around very convincingly. When Focht continued to remain silent Morgan tried a different tactic “Fredrick, please don’t mess around with me, we all know things.†Morgan whispered even if there was someone else in the room they would never have heard Morgan but Focht had and he shot Morgan a cold very dangerous look. Morgan couldn’t help but smile something he had always suspected, but never proven, had just been confirmed. “Don’t worry I have no interest in exposing this little secret.†Morgan said raising his glass of scotch to his lips.
“I’d hope not, Morgan. That little piece of information could start another war, one ComStar or the Star League could never survive.†Focht warned it wasn't so much a threat but Morgan knew where Focht was meaning.
“Very true, Anastasius, now what can I do for you?†Morgan asked more loudly this time he was making it personal getting rid of the faction responsibilities.
“It’s more like what can I do for you, Morgan†Anastasius said keeping it equally informal. “As you know the ComGuards have been decimated by the fighting on Terra†Morgan nodded this had opened the door for SLDF units to return to Terra for the first time since the Exodus by Kerensky's SLDF. “However, what you may not know is that the Word of Blake had hundreds of secrets.†Morgan smiled, it was an open secret that the Word of Blake had secrets, uncovering them would likely take decades. “Well we discovered one that could be great boon to ComStar and the Star League Defence Force but only if we are both willing to keep a secret.â€
“Secret’s are ComStar’s line of work, Fredrick†Morgan reminded Anastasius, “Although I believe perhaps the Combine had a hand there too.†Morgan said quietly Focht was getting angry with Morgan which the Commanding-General thought was good because then he’d let something slip, Focht just smiled refusing to speak further. “Fine, the Star League will keep your secret if it is one worth keeping.â€
“Oh, I think it is. One the great Aleksandr Kerensky would be proud of.†Inside Morgan there was a voice screaming this was trouble, why the hell would Focht bring up the Commanding-General who took the Star League from the Inner Sphere but Morgan simply nodded. “This situation originates during the War against the rebellious periphery factions just before Amaris Coup and was the brain child of Aleksandr Kerensky.†Focht began “this facility did its job perfectly and remained perfectly secret, then when the SLDF evacuated the Inner Sphere in their great Exodus it was shutdown automatically and never discovered until the Word of Blake dug into the records left behind by the SLDF on Terra.â€
“What did the records reveal?†Morgan asked becoming impatient.
“The location of what the Word of Blake called the Ruins of Gabriel.â€
“Ruins of Gabriel… sounds like some sort of lost city.â€
“If that was all it was then I wouldn’t care. But when we arrived at the location of Gabriel we found something else something far more special and scary.†Focht’s tone made Morgan look fully at the ComStar Primus, what the hell was this twenty-questions?
“What?†Morgan asked.
“We found a shipyard with almost two dozen WarShips all Battle-cruiser or better and a massive space habitat.†Anastasius said Morgan coughed up his scotch back into the glass the sat there looking over at the Primus looking for some sign he was messing around with Morgan, Anastasius sat there looking back at him stone faced.
“Where?†Morgan asked taking another drink he guessed it was somewhere in the deep periphery on what the Clan’s called Exodus Road, the path between the Inner Sphere and the Clan Homeworlds.
“The Odessa system, Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth.†Focht said again Morgan coughed up his scotch but this time the Commanding-General was straight to his feet.
“What!" Morgan cried "are you trying to tell me that there is a shipyard in the Lyran Alliance with nearly two dozen Star League WarShips and a massive city in space, and the blasted Word of Blake had control of it? All in a damned inhabited system? How did the Lyrans not find it all those years?†He wondered to himself
“Correct, but it is now nearly completely evacuated has been since ComStar attacked Terra, and it is now under guard of around two hundred ComStar Marines and three Aerospace Wings.â€
“No offence Focht but, considering where the Word of Blake originated that doesn’t calm me terribly.†Morgan said quietly sitting back down. “How in Kerensky’s name does such a facility exist and has never been found?†He asked again, if it had been found during the Succession Wars or even the Clan War it could have changed the balance of power markedly. Battles that had been lost could have ended differently, or they could have turned out a lot worse.
“It was hidden exceptionably well for a start, over a week from the planet, and once Kerensky’s army left the facility shut itself down into a hibernation state. Also at the site we found this.†Focht said placing a small holographic projector down on the table the projector immediately came to life showing the Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser LCS Invincible fully painted up in SLDF Colours.
“Blake’s Blood†Morgan cursed looking at the image “where did they find her?†Morgan asked immediately recognising the vessel despite its new paint job.
“We haven’t worked that one out but she is fully operational and ready for duty and I am ready to turn the vessel over to you and the SLDF.†Anastasius said quietly Morgan prised his eyes from the image to the ComStar Primus.
“Why? She was a under Lyran colours when she went missing, you’re Lyran, I thought you’d want to return her home it would certainly help rebuild ComStar’s image and you‘d have the Lyrans eating out of your pocket for the next century.†Turning away the chance of another WarShip, especially one the size of the Invincible, hurt but Morgan needed ComStar back on its feet almost as much as the Precentor-Martial. The quicker HPG communication was fully reliable again the better.
“True†Anastasius admitted “however the Word of Blake despite all their short-comings wanted the vessel to go to the SLDF" Morgan looked surprised "we have no idea why, her registration is under the SLDF and if we returned the vessel to the Lyran people then we’d have to try and explain where the vessel had come from and why we restored her and painted her in SLDF colours before handing her over to the Lyrans.â€
“Which would be messy.†Morgan said nodding if the Lyrans discovered they had a shipyard in their space they’d want to annex it, just as the other Succession Lords had to other former SLDF property following the end of the First Star League, making the rest of the Succession States edgy and if the Clans discovered it was of Star League origin then they’d want a piece of it as well it would cause a war, a big war.
“Messy is an understatement, it would make the Liberation of Terra look like a picnic.†Anastasius said looking at the Commanding-General “Morgan, if ComStar was to turn the vessel over to the SLDF claim we found it at a secret holding area in the Terra system and that ComStar had found it a century ago, kept it hidden to stop an escalation of the Succession Wars, and the Word of Blake had renovated it to its current state but were unwilling to commit it to the defence of Terra against the Star League Forces assisting ComStar, then you could pass it off as the Star League’s prize for helping defeat the Word of Blake.†Morgan nodded that could work, it would be messy but the SLDF had enough muscle nowadays to survive that kind of mess.
“What of the other ships and the shipyard?â€
“We plan on making the ships operational and moving them to Titan Shipyards then begin disassembling the shipyard. The Space-station we haven’t decided what to do with, yet.â€
“Give it to the Lyrans.†Morgan said “once you have gotten every incriminating piece of evidence out of the way drop a sniff of what you have found where the LIC can find and make sense of and let them discover the treasure trove of the century themselves then what they do with it is off your back.â€
“I like that idea, the Lyran Intelligence Corps are good enough to work out a cryptic clue or two. What do you want in return?†Anastasius asked looking at Morgan knowing the Invincible wouldn’t be enough.
“Nothing you cannot pay, Fredrick.†Morgan said smiling broadly, he liked having one up on the ComStar Primus, then again hadn’t Davion’s always held all the cards against the Steiners just cause he wore another name Focht fit into that name very snugly.
Three days later the SLS Invincible jumped into the Defiance system and was presented by Primus Anastasius Focht to Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion as a gift from ComStar to the Star League for its assistance in the Liberation and Rebuilding of Terra. As expected the Lyran Alliance is not happy they have not received the vessel back and lodge an official protest at Star League Council. However everyone else appeared to buy the Focht/Hasek-Davion story that the vessel was recovered to and renovated in the Terran system by the Word of Blake and not the Ruins of Gabriel, in fact no-one appears to know the Ruins even exists. As agreed ComStar and SLDF engineers begin operations to dismantle the facility before it is 'discovered' again.
-
Presentation Ceremony
Main Meeting Hall, SLDF Conference
Martial Olympiad, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
12th November 3070
Following several months of heavy fighting and competition the Second Martial Olympiad of the re-established Star League comes to a close with one final battle between General of Armies Keane Sortek representing the Lyran Alliance and Tai-shu Kiyomori Minamoto representing the Draconis Combine. After a long battle Keane Sortek’s Hauptmann proves to be a superior machine to Minamoto’s Sunder and the Lyran Alliance are declared champions of the Second Martial Olympiad. Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion presents the Martial Olympiad Trophy to Keane Sortek and Archon Peter Steiner-Davion at the Star League Council in front of all the other Succession Lords. The Draconis Combine are amongst the first to congratulate the Lyran Alliance vowing to return stronger in the future.
House Davion Royal Suite
Fifth Whitting Conference, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th November 3070
Following a quick flight between Filtvelt and Defiance First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion arrived on Defiance in the late hours of the twentieth following a gruelling three g’ burn-in system from the jump point, because of the Whitting Conference Agreement no House WarShip was to allowed within the system of the Conference only SLDF vessels so Victor‘s WarShip was unable to take advantage of Defiance‘s Pirate Points making for a longer journey.
Arriving at the Conference venue the First Prince found it slightly funny that he was sneaking into the Davion Royal Suite, this was a Federated Suns world, in a building built by Davion workers and he was First Prince of the Federated Suns and First Lord of the Star League yet here he was sneaking into the room worried he would wake up his wife, Danai Centrella-Davion.
Sneaking into the room Victor banged his knee into something “ouch!†he exclaimed then realised he’d made a sound, he hopped he hadn’t woken Danai up. At that very moment the suite’s main room lights activated sitting on the couch wrapped in a dark green dressing gown was Danai Centrella-Davion. “hello.†Victor said quietly “honey, I’m home.†he said smiling weakly Danai returned his smile “what’s wrong? Why are you up so late? It isn’t something Sun-Tzu or Hohiro said is it?†He asked slipping down onto the could Danai curled up even more giving him room.
“There’s plenty Sun-Tzu has said that was hurtful, annoying and darn-right insulting while Hohiro has forgotten our past friendships and ignored me as a lesser noble which hurts but that is not why I’m sitting up.â€
“Then why?†Victor asked, he hated ‘twenty-questions’ but it looked like that was how it would have to go.
“I’m pregnant.†She said smiling weakly again, they had both spoken about extending their family but neither had expected anything so soon, Victor and Danai had spent a grant total of two weeks together in the last two months, two great weeks but still only a very short period.
“That’s good news†Victor said but from her face he could tell she was worried “what’s wrong?â€
“Nothing it’s just here and now is when I find out. I don’t like the way it has worked out.â€
“Miss Superstitious.†Victor teased, Danai hit him on the shoulder. “Hey!†He protested “I’m First Prince of the Federated Suns, First Lord of the Star League Defence Force and your husband. And I say we count our lucky stars in the sky…â€
“As they go supernova†she said echoing the old joke.
“…we count our lucky stars and be thankful that we have been blessed with the family we have and the family we will have.†He said, his words and tone calmed her and they locked in an embrace.
The next morning with Danai missing from the Federated Suns desk at the conference morning meeting the room was a buzz with rumour something had happened. Victor made a choice and announced the news himself before anyone else broke the news as usual everyone was their pleasant selves as was protocol. Even Sun-Tzu Liao was okay about his words, this put Victor a little on edge, normally when things like this people wanted something in return but there were no demands or threats... Only time would tell.
Fifth Whitting Conference, Main Meeting Hall
Defiance City, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
22nd November 3070
With all the Succession Lords present the Conference could now begin in earnest. The next day the Lyran Alliance supported by ComStar and the St Ives Compact all vote to throw the Taurian Concordat out of the Star League Conference they are quickly countered by the Capellan Confederation, Magistracy of Canopus and Draconis Combine who all vote to retain the Concordat’s membership instead suspending their voting privileges for three years. With the Federated Suns vote the only one to be cast Victor Steiner-Davion chose to side with suspending their voting privileges knowing that if he chose to do otherwise the Capellan Confederation and Draconis Combine could pour over the Federated Suns border swamping his nation with their superior numbers.
Capellan Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao believed he had won a great victory over the Federated Suns by saving their enemy the Taurian Concordat from suspension however in fact he’d been played by the First Prince who had known what was going on the entire time. Victor also saw the need to maintain the Taurians in the Star League so the Star League could control what they did, as the Taurian nation was known for its volatile nature and its willingness to use Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Weapons.
Fifth Whitting Conference, Main Meeting Hall
Defiance City, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
24th November 3070
The Fifth Whitting Conference was nearing an end and only one thing remained the election of a new First Lord. The Magistracy of Canopus leader Magestix Naomi Centrella immediately elected Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao for the post citing that the Federated Suns, now defunct Free Worlds League and Draconis Combine leaders had all been First Lord even the conquered Free Rasalhague Republic leader had been a First Lord it was time for the Capellan Confederation’s people to be honoured with the post of First Lord for their Celestial Wisdom. There was a quiet chuckling from a couple of the other delegates before St Ives Compact leader Duke Kai Allard-Liao promised Sun-Tzu he would never become First Lord and instead nominated Archon Peter Steiner-Davion for the post. Kai noted that Lyran citizens had been giving their lives for the cause of the Star League and the safety of the Inner Sphere. The contest was not even close with the Federated Suns, Draconis Combine and ComStar all joining the St Ives Compact in voting for the Lyran Alliance. Without the Taurian Concordat, whose vote was suspended, only the Magistracy of Canopus voted for the Capellan Confederation and the Capellan/Magistracy delegation left Defiance immediately in disgrace of another defeat at the Whitting Conference, something Sun-Tzu Liao was beginning to become tired of, perhaps the SLDF was not the best place for his nation.
-
Main Dining Hall
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon City
Crucis March, Federated Suns
5th December 3070
As the new First Lord of the Star League Archon Peter Steiner-Davion could go anywhere in the Inner Sphere but because he was in the Federated Suns and because his family was here with him and on the invitation of First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, his brother, Peter and the family had chosen to remain on New Avalon allowing both halves of the Steiner-Davion family to spend some time together keeping the bonds created by Hanse Davion and Melissa Steiner’s marriage alive and kicking. However the times they lived in would work against them.
Along the Lyran Alliance/Clan border Clan Jade Falcon units charged over the border assaulting several worlds in the Arc-Royal Theatre and the Isle of Skye. The Fifteenth Arcturan Guards Regiment that had been training with Clan Wolf (in-Exile) forces is overwhelmed quickly and destroyed to the man on Kelenfold. With this news the Archon, his escort in the First Royal Guards and Royal Black Watch Regiment, and the WarShips LAS Yggdrasil and SLS Invincible began moving towards the Clan border. Peter also ordered the SLS Troy to the Jade Falcon border along with the First and Third Brigades of the First Division based on Kittery to join them on the Jade Falcon border.
Kittery Training Battalion Base Ft. Damien Hasek
Kittery, Capellan March
Federated Suns
9th December 3070
It had been years, decades even, since Andrew Redburn had walked the soil of Kittery. The last time had been just before the beginning of the Fourth Succession War when he’d taken command of the Kittery Training Battalion, Hanse Davion’s pet project that had borne fruit with the First Kathil Uhlans Regiment being born from several of the units and the entire AFFS benefiting from a more professional and competent class of solider. Today Andrew, now retired from the AFFS, was here for another reason his youngest son eighteen year old Damien had chosen to enrol with the Kittery Training Battalion instead of going to one of the Federated Suns Academies and Andrew was interested to find out why.
As his limo moved through the gates of the Training Battalion’s base Ft. Damien Hasek, it brought back the memories for Andrew, he noticed the base had changed very little in the years he had been away and instantly he began to think of his time at this base with Justin Allard and the others of his training battalion, his first real command. Recently the Kittery Training Battalion had become permanently assigned to combat duties with the First Kittery Borderers Regiment and Andrew had thought this would improve life on the base but he noticed it hadn’t.
In fact the Base looked like it hadn’t been improved in many, many years possibly even since Andrew left. Since the end of the Fourth Succession War not a single enemy had landed on Kittery’s soil and slowly the Capellan March had abandoned the world and base. With the SLDF having major facilities on the planet as well meant the base was no longer needed as a front-line installation. When Andrew had been Prince’s Champion of the Federated Suns he’d had to fight calls for the base to be closed only narrowly winning.
Standing to attention in front of the modest Training Battalion Headquarters building stood Damien in a freshly pressed uniform with the Training Battalion uniform on, standing beside him was Major Raul Bethune the Battalion’s commander wearing the exact same type of jumpsuit and togs that Andrew wore when he was assigned here. Andrew couldn’t help but smile the Major certainly knew how to play the game. Stepping from the limousine both snapped to a salute which Andrew although retired and out of uniform returned the salute.
“Welcome to Kittery sir†the Major greeted him with a smile maintaining the salute.
“Thank, you major.†Andrew said returning the smile lowering his salute the Major and Damien followed suit in lowering his salute. “good to see you Damien.â€
“And you sir, I’m not changing my mind, father.†Damien said defensively, ‘good he’ll need that here’ Andrew thought
“I never expected you would.†Andrew said quietly to Damien then turned to Raul Bethune “Major, if you could give us a couple of minutes. I’ll be here long enough for you to notice me and show me around.†The Major nodded, smiled and walked away several meters.
“I’m not moving on father.†Damien said defiantly Andrew smiled.
“Damien, the last thing that I planned to do was mess with your choice. Your older brother and sister both made their lives outside the military following your mother’s path. I always wanted the best for you…†Andrew said looking at his teenage son.
“Dad, I need to take my own path.†Damien interrupted Andrew had asked him a hundred times not to but still he did, sometimes he thought it was just to annoy him.
“…I know that.†Andrew said strongly “I have no intention in asking you to move or asking the Major here to kick you out.†He said looking over at Bethune, Damien looked over at his commander who nodded in his direction then looked away. “Instead I wanted to congratulate you, an interesting choice of unit to enlist with.â€
“But also the best one.†Damien said quietly.
“It was when I was here, but that was a special time.†Andrew said again thinking of his time with the unit before the Fourth Succession War and before the Clan War.
“Now can be a special time too.†Damien said “the unit is on deployment on a regular basis. We have full access to the SLDF’s ranges, this is the best choice of training Battalion’s for me.â€
“What Mech have they given you?â€
“I share a Watchman with one of the other cadets.†Damien said naming the most common Medium training Mech in the Federated Suns.
“I could twist an arm or two…†Andrew began he didn’t like the idea of his son getting a second-rate military education.
“No, sir, I’m happy with the cadet I’m sharing with.†Damien said immediately.
“What’s her name?†Andrew asked, he’d seen Damien like this before when it came to women he became stupid.
“Dad, please let me run, or ruin, my own life.†Damien pleaded Andrew though about it for a moment then nodded Damien would make his own choices and mistakes.
“Alright then, let’s go and allow your CO show me around this base, and I’ll show you a couple of things later that even he doesn’t know about.†Andrew said with a wink and smile, Damien could see a spark in his eyes it was like his father was twenty years younger again. Throughout the rest of the day Major Bethune showed them around then that night Andrew showed Damien a couple of extra things before heading over to the Star League’s High Command base to see how they were getting on building their own facilities. As he’d expected things were well underway and Morgan Hasek-Davion was more than happy to show him around and show him the future plans, in a few years time the facilities would be twice as large and would include an entire area for the Kittery Training Battalion to use as they shared the facility, when that happened Ft. Damien Hasek would close for the final time. Andrew was glad he had come here now just so he saw the Fort one last time before it was closed.
Marius’ Tears, Asteroid Cluster
Marian Hegemony, Periphery
14th December 3070
In the early part of the twenty-first century the system now known as Marius’ Tears a cataclysmic event happened and the most distant planet had shattered into one hundreds of asteroid fragments. Nearby planets gravity pull had held them together and they were now collectively known as the Marius’ Tears Asteroid Cluster.
The Marius’ Tears system was on the farthest edge of known space in a region claimed by the Marian Hegemony and had never been fully explored. That was until now. In recent years the Marian Hegemony had gained some legitimacy as a major Periphery nation, with the Free Worlds League shattering and with the Word of Blake destroyed the amount of people who had fled to the Periphery from central worlds had increased as had the Marian Hegemony’s population. The Hegemony’s leader Caesar Julius O’Reilly had directed several DropShips and two JumpShips to scout out his Hegemony’s distant systems and nearby systems, for the first time ever a Marian Hegemony DropShip would penetrate the Marius’ Tears Asteroid Cluster and find out exactly what was in there, hopefully the Hegemony could exploit and use to increase the size of its army or its Hegemony.
The Gazelle-class DropShip Caesar’s Gift breached the Cluster’s outer barrier and after eight hours the crew led by Captain Sharapay Wilson was becoming tired of asteroid dodging and were ready to go home, or at least get out of here. They were ready to leave when some strange sensor readings detected something strange turning towards it and dodging several more asteroids they discovered a diffident trace of germanium the first, and most crucial, building block of K-F core construction the lifeblood of Interstellar travel. Moving closer the Caesar’s Gift crew thought they were onto a gem of a discovery however moments later they discovered something far greater, a treasure trove of gems. Orbiting in between three huge asteroids was a battle damaged and disabled Dart-class Light Cruiser, a class of WarShip thought extinct to the Inner Sphere and Periphery.
Reporting this find back to the Caesar the whole crew of the Caesar’s Gift is promoted two ranks each and given fifty thousand C-Bills per crewmen. Now Admiral Sharapay Wilson was guaranteed command of the newly named MHS Caesar, when the former Word of Blake and Free Worlds League techs found amongst the people who had emigrated to the Hegemony worked out how to bring the vessel operational, and she had won the eye of the Caesar, something no-one would ever turn away from. By the end of the month Sharapay was pregnant with Julius’ child and they were engaged to be married.
Blue Diamond
Lyran Alliance/Jade Falcon Border
22nd December 3070
With Kelenfold and Meacham securely held by the Jade Falcons the defending Lyrans sent running or dead the Jade Falcon Khan, Marthe Pryde, ordered her clan forward to Blue Diamond. Led by two WarShips the Texas-class Battleship Falcon’s Nest and the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Black Talon the Jade Falcons entered the system in force with Khan Marthe Pryde leading her Turkina Keshik and the whole Jade Falcon Galaxy (Gamma). With two dozen DropShips and two WarShips burning towards the planet the on planet Seventh Alliance Guards RCT knew they were no match for the Jade Falcons in space or open ground so they fell back to defendable positions and waited for the Jade Falcons to arrive.
Three days later the Jade Falcons landed at exactly the same time as the WarShips LAS Yggdrasil, SLS Invincible and SLS Troy all arrived in system followed by Archon (First Lord) Peter Steiner-Davion, the First Royal Guards RCT and the Royal Black Watch Regiment of the SLDF. Khan Marthe Pryde suddenly realised that she was caught between an entrenched defender and a very powerful attack force and began reorganising her forces accordingly. Setting her Jade Falcons up in their own entrenched positions while attacking the weaker of the Seventh’s fortifications causing heavy casualties amongst the Seventh’s Infantry and destroying all their aerospace assets on the ground. She then ordered the Falcon’s Nest and the Black Talon to engage the three incoming WarShips delay them and if possible destroy them. Although out numbered the Jade Falcon crews never once questioned their Khan and began to move towards the SLDF/LAAF forces incoming towards the planet.
Two days later the two Falcon WarShips and their fighters met the entire SLDF/LAAF force burning towards the planet. Luckily for the Inner Sphere force there was no coordination between the two Jade Falcon WarShip commanders. The commander of the Black Talon targeted enemy DropShips almost exclusively downing almost two dozen vessels and devastating the support units of the First Royal Guards RCT. Seeing the Black Talon’s actions the First Royal Black Watch Air Wing concentrated on and destroyed the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser running dozens of assaults on the vessel loosing half their number as they ignored the Jade Falcon fighters attempting to defend the Black Talon.
The Falcon’s Nest commander knew his vessel would be the target of the three Inner Sphere WarShips and made a decision seeing the SLS Troy moving ahead of the enemy units he ordered his forward and broadside gunners to target the smallest Inner Sphere vessel. Starting with a barrage of Heavy Naval PPCs from the forward guns, that ravaged the armour of the Troy, the Falcon’s Nest then turned to port and opened fire with a full broadside of Naval Lasers and Naval Capital Missiles. This barrage penetrated the already damaged armour and touched off the Troy’s ammunition bays the resulting explosions ripped the former-Free Worlds League vessel to pieces destroying it in an instant. As the Inner Sphere force was momentarily stunned the Falcon’s Nest’s helmsmen rolled the Battleship over and the mighty Texas-class vessel opened fire with another barrage of weapons fire this time the naval lasers and missiles struck the LAS Yggdrasil and the SLS Invincible ignoring the surrounding DropShips, which likely saved the First Lord, Lyran Archon Peter Steiner-Davion.
The Falcon’s Nest’s guns damaged both Battle-cruisers approaching the planet however the sight of Lyran vessels of old, Tharkad-class (Invincible), and new, Mjolinir-class (Yggdrasil), approaching them the Invincible decked out in Star League Defence Force colours the Falcon’s Nest commander lost his nerve and ordered the vessel to jump away abandoning about eight Jade Falcon fighters still battling their Lyran counterparts with no place to retreat the Clansmen rammed into DropShips and the WarShips around them or were destroyed in their suicidal attempts refusing to be captured by the Inner Sphere forces.
With the Jade Falcon WarShips out of the way the Lyran and Star League forces continued to the planet for a confrontation with the Jade Falcons on planet. Because of the naval battle the SLDF/LAAF forces was delayed by another three days before they could reach the world of Blue Diamond in force. This delay gave the Jade Falcon’s Gamma Galaxy the time to destroy the Seventh Alliance Guards RCT giving them full control of the world ready for the SLDF/LAAF forces to arrive. Hearing that her WarShips had been defeated Khan Marthe Pryde sent a message to First Lord/Archon Peter Steiner-Davion. The Khan challenged the incoming forces to a one-off battle to decide the fate of the Invasion and the world. The Archon accepts bidding the First Royal Black Watch and the remains of the First Royal Guards RCT against the Khan’s bid of the whole of her Jade Falcon (Gamma) Galaxy. A battle to take place on the 30th December on the plains on Blue Diamond’s southern continent, a largely uninhabited part of the world.
Trial of Possession
Blue Diamond, Southern plains
Lyran Alliance/Jade Falcon Border
30th December 3070
As agreed the Jade Falcons lined up on the northern edge of the plains while the SLDF/LAAF allies lined up on the southern plains. Knowing that the Clan force’s technological edge could hit them more accurately and at longer ranges the Inner Sphere forces pushed forward straight into a close quarters brawl. With slight numerical edge and fresher troops things looked quiet good for the Inner Sphere forces until Khan Marthe Pryde herself, and her bodyguard Keshik, joined the battle. The most elite force of the entire Jade Falcon Touman had so far been withheld from the heaviest of the fighting on Blue Diamond and were now unleashed straight into the command companies of the Royal Black Watch and the First Royal Guards with Marthe Pryde targeting her seventy ton Summoner on Peter Steiner-Davion’s one hundred ton Fafnir. During a battle which would last an hour neither Peter or Marthe could find a killing blow and they retreated from the field to rethink their battle strategies. It was during this time they noticed something wrong with the battle, a third unknown force.
As the two leaders and their bodyguards fought all around them the Inner Sphere and Clan forces fought each other an unknown company of BattleMechs enters the field targeting both Inner Sphere and Clan forces. These BattleMechs are all identical and are all painted with a beige front, blood-red back black weapons and cockpit, the traditional colours of the Spartan warrior on Ancient Terra. Although no-one recognises the unit or the BattleMech-class during the battle experts believe that they are variants of the Spartan BattleMech that originally served the First Star League and have not been mass produced in centuries.
These BattleMechs are of assault class, are capable of reaching top speeds of upwards of ninety kilometres per hour and are armed with a mixture of advanced pulse laser technology, Short Range Missiles and massive elaborately constructed BattleMech sized swords. For defence they have thick armour and carry a large round shield in their second hand. Following further examination of the design by both Inner Sphere and Clan experts both sides note the close resemblance of the sword and shield to those used by the ancient Spartan warriors of Sparta on Terra. However, no-one can find a single unit that has ever used these colours or this Mech design.
None of the Spartan BattleMechs are destroyed, or even heavily damaged, and between them they rack up nearly a full Battalion’s worth of kills only coming into difficulties when facing the Elementals of Clan Jade Falcon pointing towards a weakness against Battle Armour forces. Once they have caused their damage the Mechs disappear and due to the confusion of the Battle no-one is able to track them.
Following the uncovering of this evidence both Marthe Pryde and Peter Steiner-Davion accuse the other side of fielding an unknown, un-bid, force on the planet. With both realising that the other’s anger at the appearance of the Spartan BattleMechs rules out their involvement with either side. Khan Pryde and Archon Steiner-Davion agree to a truce on the planet noting the day’s battle had devastated both forces and if anyone wanted to take the world they’d need more forces, forces neither side could spare.
Knowing their was no easy way to end this and that conflict would destroy his forces Archon Peter Steiner-Davion was ready to offer the Jade Falcon Khan a chance at the peace table however the Jade Falcon’s had other ideas. On the next morning the Jade Falcons charged the Inner Sphere forces base camp causing heavy damage to the ground forces and their DropShip transport before retreating to their DropShips and boosting off planet. At the same time the Falcon’s Nest returned jumping in very close to the planet opening fire with three full broadsides into the Yggdrasil and Invincible still in close orbit of Blue Diamond ready to commence orbital bombardment if ordered to. The attach caused heavy damage to both Battle-cruisers and opening a path large enough for the Jade Falcon ground forces to retreat off planet without being harassed. With their ground forces gone the Falcon’s Nest also then retreated before the two damaged Inner Sphere WarShips could respond. Blue Diamond had been saved from the Falcons but at a heavy price in manpower and resources. For now the threat posed by the Jade Falcons was over but only time would tell when the Clan threat would return, so far the Wolves had been quiet and everyone knew that the Wolves would lead the real charge for Terra, as they had done before.
And so ends 3070, hope you enjoyed, comments welcome
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3071
Planetary Government
Geneva, Central Europe
Terra, Chaos March
8th January 3071
The new year had been welcomed with hope for the Inner Sphere there were no major conflicts being waged, the Star League Defence Force had once again prevailed against the Clans and for once things looked on the up. The people of Terra and even the ever pessimistic ComStar Acolytes began to believe that things may actually be on their way to work out.
On the early morning of the 8th January this hope was shattered when Precentor Gavin Dow, the Precentor Tharkad of ComStar’s ruling Council, issued a message to the Inner Sphere via the newly re-established HPG A Grid. During the night Primus Anastasius Focht, who had only just arrived back on the world, had passed away following a series of massive heart attacks which had put his body beyond healing. Gavin Dow himself had been named Primus (Pro-tem) until the full council could meet on Terra and formally to vote for a new leader.
The entire Inner Sphere and even the Clans marked this time with moments of silence or celebration, depending on where they were, Anastasius Focht had been a great man or a devil in the eyes of billions and would be missed. In quiet corners around the Inner Sphere people who knew the real story behind Focht and his true origins marked the passing of a truly great man. First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion praised Focht’s accomplishments and said a personnel goodbye to a man he considered an ally and friend. Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion also praised Focht noting that if it had not been for Focht and ComStar then there would be no reborn Star League Defence Force and notes the recent Jade Falcon incursion could have turned out far more different without Focht‘s actions in the formation of the League and at the Whitting Conferences. New Primus (Pro-tem) Gavin Dow vows to continue what Focht started with ComStar and continue to strengthen the links made between the ComGuard and the SLDF while continuing to re-establish the HPG Grid and return ComStar to its true path as protector of the Interstellar Communications Grid and the technologies behind it.
Clan Occupation Zones
Clan Wolf/Hell’s Horses/Jade Falcon
18th-21st January 3071
Following their operations against the Lyran Alliance the Jade Falcons had cut their periphery defences to the bare minimum and this had opened them to attacks by their neighbouring Clans. Clan Hell’s Horses new to the Inner Sphere were the first to strike seizing Erewhon, Anywhere, Toland and Lackhove destroying the Jade Falcon’s Mu Garrison Galaxy in the process.
Next to strike was the Wolves hitting Colmar and Dompaire in the centre of the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone threatening their capital Sudeten while at the same time spearing into the heart of the Jade Falcon’s drive for Terra by taking Ft Loudon.
Also at the same time the Wolves strike at Ueda in the Rasalhague Dominion destroying the Second Rasalhague Armour Cluster and the Ninth Bear Regulars both training on this Former Free Rasalhague Republic world. These assaults stop all Jade Falcon invasion efforts in their tracks as they realise that their more central worlds are also now under threat and it rouses the Ghost Bear warriors of the Rasalhague Dominion who now begin to see the Crusaders as much of a threat as the Draconis Combine and their own internal divisions and begin to take steps to neutralise the threat.
Tara
Northwind Highlander Command
Northwind, Chaos March
24th January 3071
After months of negotiations conducted mainly by Cornelius Rose, head of Clan Rose, the Clan Elders offer the Black Thorns hiring rights within Northwind's Hiring Halls, something only the Northwind Regiments are allowed to do. He also negotiates rights to buy equipment from Corsara BattleMech Factory, an exclusively Highlander factory and supply company.
They then surprise the Black Thorns commander Jeremiah Rose by offering them an opportunity to take their rightful place within the Northwind Highlanders Brigade and form a full Regiment within the Northwind Highlanders with full support. Jeremiah Rose informs the Highlanders he has to think about it, although he respects their decision and he would normally be happy to accept such an honour when Jeremiah first formed the Black Thorns it was because the Highlanders had shunned him and he did not want to dishonour the fallen Black Thorns by immediately turning the command over to Northwind command.
Planetary Government
Geneva, Central Europe
Terra, Chaos March
2nd February 3071
Following weeks of discussion ComStar agrees to turn Terra over to the growing list of Star League Protectorate worlds and for the remaining ComGuards to become full time SLDF units. The leaders of ComStar will remain co-leaders of Terra, working with the re-established Terran Senate, for the time being and Unity City, capital city of the old Star League, will remain sealed however for all intensive purposes the ComGuard and ComStar will cease to be and the Star League will be the power in charge of Terra. The transferred troops of the First ComGuard Division and the few TerraSec forces operational transferring with them will become the First Royal ComGuard Regiment which will be assigned to the SLDF's under strength Second Division based in the Sirian Concordance. This unit will be built around four Regiments built in traditional ComStar organisational structures making it a real mix bag unit but maintaining the links to its ComGuard past.
Because of ComStar’s previous relationship the new unit will not build into a Brigade in the Concordance instead building the Brigade on Terra allowing the people that had served ComStar in the Liberation of Terra to continue to guard Terra, Precentor-Martial Peter McGillaray of ComStar becomes a full SLDF General while Primus Gavin Dow becomes Governor of Terra head of the still rebuilding Senate. While he will eventually have to be elected into the position, for now as Terra rebuilds he is accepted as a stabilizing force by the Terran people. With ComStar still in control of most HPG sites in the Inner Sphere and Periphery it reverts to its previous Star League designation, the Department of Communications with Gavin Dow also holding the head position of this organisation.
Planetary Government, President’s Office
New Promise, Gllfillian’s Gold
Rim Collection, Periphery
19th February 3071
Having successfully retained the Presidency of the Rim Collection for the second term President William Roberts sat in his office looking at several documents across from him sat Colonel Jerry Able, the former Mercenary Commander of Able’s Aces and now the military commander of all Rim Collection Militia forces, and Ambassador Merle Briggs from the Lyran Alliance. “We already have an agreement with House Steiner.†He protested looking at the Ambassador.
“Herr-President, House Steiner has trade alliances with everyone it has borders with… perhaps with an exception of Clan Jade Falcon. We have a trade agreement with the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and Marik-Stewart Commonwealth despite being at war with them less than two years ago. The Lyran Alliance and Rim Collection has never been in conflict, we would like to reward this loyalty.†Merle said quietly.
“Our worlds are quite secure and quite self-sufficient.†Jerry Able said defensively his mercenary Battalion had made homes here and they were very proud and happy of their accomplishments in the Rim Collection.
“Colonel, the Able’s Aces have done a grand job but the Lyran Alliance Armed Forces could supplement your position offer you help when things become too difficult.†The Ambassador said attempting to win the Colonel’s trust and support.
“Let me tell you, We are doing fine…†Jerry started but Roberts beat him to it.
“And we are not talking about a military alliance just a deeper/more open trade alliance.†The President said cutting out any speak of a further expansion of the alliance, the Rim Collection’s six worlds were doing fine on their own, the last thing they needed was a Government miles away taking most of their money for little in return. “I will discuss your proposals further with the parliament, until then we will keep the alliance as it is.†The President said the Ambassador nodded raised to her feet and shuffled out of the room, no need to stay longer than she was needed. “Colonel, leave politics to me.†Roberts warned.
“Sorry, Bill, I just didn’t want the Steiner’s in here taking over so easy. We are doing just well on our own.†Jerry said defensively.
“Heard another of your Mechs is down due to lack of parts.†The President said that made three of the Collection’s thirty machines were down due to easily attainable parts in the Inner Sphere “a closer relationship with the Alliance would give us greater access to that kind of material keep your people on the front-line doing what you’ve trained them for.†Jerry Able thought about that for several moments and nodded the President was right “plus we could use some of the luxuries of the Inner Sphere out here ever now and then, I’m going to suggest to the parliament that we agree with this proposal. We can see where we go with it from there.†He said, the President and Jerry had come through things together over the last ten or so years but neither was getting any younger, this alliance would buy the Collection a short-term solution to a couple of their problems and allow the people to treat themselves every now-and-then.
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Open Countryside
Rostock, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
21st February 3071
Travelling Home to the Royal Palace Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion, her son Burton, seven, and daughter Jaylen, four, were tired both children had been at school all day and Danai had been attending meetings across Avalon City then she‘d come to collect them and now they had to travel to Flensburg where a DropShip would take them on a sub-orbital flight back to Avalon City. For more than once Danai questioned why she and Victor had chosen the school on Rostock but then she was reminded, it was private and isolated in Graveston’s Forest. The press on New Avalon had promised their First Prince to leave the children when they were not with either Danai or Victor but they couldn’t guarantee all would agree by those terms. The one thing they all wanted was to go home and rest, hopefully Victor would be at home when they got there and they could spend some time together as a family.
Around their vehicle were four OmniMechs with sixteen Battle Armour Troopers all riding aboard their backs. Both the OmniMechs and the Battle Armour were from the First Davion Guards RCT for close protection each had sworn an oath to die before any harm came to the First Prince or his family. As the vehicle moved Danai could sense something was wrong the Mechs seemed to be loosing pace on the Hovercraft. The Deusenberg VIP Luxury Hovercraft limousine, know as Deusenberg One - the First Prince’s transport created by Victor’s father Hanse Davion, had accelerated and was now travelling over one hundred kilometres per hour the escorting Mechs were struggling to keep up. She looked over at the children worried, she see Burton could sense something was wrong too, he was old enough to notice such things nowadays, while Jaylen was fast asleep against a large cushion. Burton glanced from his mother to his sister but Danai shook her head for him to leave her be.
Looking out the window Danai watched as the lead Mech was hit by at several flights of missiles, two of the four riding Cavalier Battle Armoured troopers fell from the Mech’s back knocked clear by the blasts and the Deusenberg One’s driver was forced to veer to avoid hitting the falling troopers throwing the passengers around, this woke Jaylen as she flew straight into Burton who luckily was able to grab his sister stopping her hitting the insides of the vehicle “Down!†Danai shouted, they were under attack, she didn’t know by who but it was trouble and being on the floor was the best bet for them. As the two children reached the ground Danai covered them the best she could her growing ‘baby-bump’ made this a little difficult but she got there for the most part.
Now the Deusenberg One was at full speed the driver using all four lanes of the Highway as he avoided weapons fire from both sides. The four OmniMechs were doing their best to keep up but they were all engaged with the enemy and were steadily falling behind. The attackers had no such worries of the original twenty-four attackers eighteen remained each riding in a Firerider Dune-Buggy weighing in at ten tons and could reach speeds of over one hundred-and-twenty kilometres per hour making hitting them a real problem for the MechWarriors and impossible for the Battle Armour troopers.
The Deusenberg One driver had made a break for it however with the OmniMechs tied up fighting the vehicles and the Battle Armour isolated the hovercraft was a sitting duck for four of the Fireriders which quickly closed on the hover craft and took out its hover skirt with some well placed call shots shredding the air cushion. The Deusenberg One span a full three hundred and sixty degrees three times, barely avoiding flipping over onto its back, finally coming to rest against the central divider several hundred metres away from the AFFS Bodyguard forces still having trouble hitting the attacking troops which had employed inferno missiles against them causing Mechs to overheat and Battle Armour to die in napalm fire.
From her time in the military Danai knew they were in serious danger and that soon they would be dead or held for ransom against the First Prince. Danai silently thought of her husband, one of the most powerful men in the Inner Sphere, she didn’t care about his standing she just wished that he was here now “Victor, help us†she whispered knowing he could never hear her but feeling better by saying his name.
Unbelievably fortune would be on the Bodyguard and the Duchess’ side, while this was going on about two kilometres a pair of brand-new prototype conventional fighters known as Thunder and Lighting from private corporation Nock Engineering Inc. were testing at a nearby range. Test pilots Rosanna Kowalski and David Tinselly had detected the fire-fight and following a check with their flight tower the fighters had diverted to the battle. Using a mix of Light Autocannons and the brand-new Multi-Missile Launcher the that had been debuted four years before by the Battle Magic Mercenary Command, a command dedicated to weapons development and maintenance, and since been sold to the Militia and Mercenary Commands alike. The AFFS had been experimenting with using the MML and Light Autocannon on different units and these conventional fighters were the perfect test bed.
“Rosanna, clear the limo, I will take the rest.†David said quickly flicking off the safeties on his fighters weapons diving in low. David took his fighter known as Lighting in on a group of Fireriders attacking a pair of the AFFS OmniMechs. The Fireriders were travelling too fast for the MechWarrior to clearly get a shot at while being able to constantly hit the heavy Mech in the back where its armour was lighters already one of the OmniMechs was struggling with heavy damage to either its engine or gyroscope and was barely standing. Using his light autocannons, one per wing, David hit one of the enemy vehicles hard enough to flip it over, rupturing the fuel tank and the inferno missile bay causing a massive explosion which consumed another Firerider “how do ya like that?†David shouted watching the Fireriders suddenly scatter now realising they were under attack by something that could hit them easily.
While at the other side of the battle Rosanna targeted her Thunder’s weapons on the Fireriders surrounding the limousine. “First you, I think†she whispered hitting one with a group of SRM and medium laser fire causing the parked buggy, and its crew, to explode in fire. She then quickly switched targets hitting a second with LRM and light autocannon fire destroying both vehicles in one pass. The Fireriders suddenly realising they were in serious trouble began to try and disengage they were running for their lives.
For his second pass David concentrated on the fleeing Fireriders “now who said you could leave the party?†gunning down one damaged craft with an LRM salvo followed by a medium laser hit while Rosanna hit another with her light autocannons. Unfortunately the pair had been testing their aircraft before this engagement and fuel was getting low, with the Fireriders retreating the two test pilots were forced to disengage after their passes. Linking up high above the battle David dropped a comm.-laser on the lead First Davion OmniMech a battered but still standing Black Hawk-KU “Lighting to Davion Guards One.â€
“Go ahead, Lightning†the MechWarrior’s daggered reply came through moments later.
“Guards One, they are heading south west, we show no other targets. We are bingo fuel heading for home plate.†David said looking at his sensor data as he and Rosanna turned their fighters away from the battleground.
“Understood, Lighting, you and your wing’s help is most appreciated, we owe you a drink. Guard lance open fire, Bodyguard One, have your people check on packages.†The MechWarrior ordered.
With the Fireriders in full retreat the damaged First Davion Mechs and Battle Armour were able to destroy the last Fireriders and form a close-protection perimeter around the wrecked Deusenberg One waiting for further reinforcements. Danai and her children were all shaken but uninjured by the attack while both limo drivers, one MechWarrior and four Battle Armour troopers were dead from the attack. The Deusenberg One was destroyed in the battle, there was no-way to recover the hovercraft, though it had done its job.
From examination of the craft and the surviving bodies the DMI investigators found nothing to point to who sent them after Danai however old suspicions fall on the Capellan Confederation and several covert strikes are made against the nation in retribution. The AFFS also orders that all Firerider vehicles in the Federated Suns are destroyed, including vehicles serving with periphery militias, and that the AFFS destroy these craft on sight.
The next day in front of the Royal Court and his parents Prince Burton Davion hands out his first medals. Presenting two Sunburst Medals to the two civilian test-pilots who risked their lives in prototype craft to engage an unknown enemy in a successful attempt to save their first family. The aircraft Thunder and Lightning are immediately bought by the NAIS, for an undisclosed amount, as museum pieces while Nock Engineering Inc. found an order for three hundred copies of the fighters for the AFFS waiting for them in the next day‘s post. This marked the biggest conventional fighter order in over fifty years and one that would keep Nock Engineering Inc. busy for two years. On the request of Field Marshal Bishop Sortek, as commander of the First Davion Guards RCT, an entire wing of twenty fighters is added to the First Davion’s TO&E. In a universe where the Aerospace Fighter is King of the Skies this makes them highest placed and most respected conventional fighters in the entire Inner Sphere.
It is also a massive advertising boost for Nock Engineering Inc. which use this deployment across the Inner Sphere as proof of their fighter’s capabilities orders increase one hundred percent in a matter of weeks with mercenary units and militias throughout the Inner Sphere wanting to test out the Nock‘s products. Nock used the resulting boost in finance to venture forwards creating their own in-house aerospace development block looking to produce their first aerospace fighter by around 3075.
Local Space
Barcella, Nova Cat Territory
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Space
28th February 3071
Raising from their bases on Barcella the Nova Cat’s 153rd Nova Cat Regulars Aerospace Cluster, Alpha Galaxy, supported by six Vanguard-class DropShips and two Carrier-class vessels moved to engage three Clan Star Adder Clusters of troops and the WarShip Centaur, a Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette. Three days before the Star Adders had arrived, refused to issue a batchall and informed them they would pay for their finding a new home so close to the Inner Sphere without consulting the Clan council and for their actions in collusion with the Federated Suns. The Star Adders also charged the Nova Cats with helping the Inner Sphere to destroy Clan Smoke Jaguar by providing the reborn Star League with the location of their greatest enemies Homeworld Huntress.
With the Nova Cat Homeworld WarShip fleet, comprised of the six vessels of the Vision Star standing off the 153rd moves to engage the Star Adders with its DropShip support. The 312th Cluster of Omicron Provisional Galaxy of Clan Star Adder was destroyed in space by the Nova Cat DropShips and fighters while the 1015th also of Omicron Provisional Galaxy were destroyed minutes after landing on Barcella by elements of the First New Barcella Guards of Clan Nova Cat’s Alpha Galaxy. The third Cluster, the Ninety-seventh Adder Sentinels of Xi Provisional Galaxy, realised it could not win the battle and attempted to run however its engines were shot out before it could reach the Centaur, which itself was now under threat.
The Centaur, under orders not to engage the Nova Cat fleet only to help defend the DropShips, tried to run however it was confronted by the Remembrance, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser. The Nova Cat crew on board Remembrance offered the Star Adder crew one chance to surrender and become abtakha, adopted warriors, the Centaur replied with naval autocannon and capital missile fire however these weapons were pop guns compared to the fire the Remembrance could use or withstand. The Nova Cat crew given no choice but to fight returned fire with fire and the Centaur was gutted with a broadside of ten Naval Autocannons that tore the Corvette to pieces breaching the hull in several places venting the vessel to space killing every member of the Centaur‘s two hundred crew in seconds. The Ninety-seventh Adder Sentinels, stranded in their disabled DropShip, are taken as Isorla by the Nova Cat forces and used to strengthen the still recovering Upsilon Galaxy bringing it back to full strength. The Nova Cats also began planning their revenge for this attack on their only Kerensky Cluster holding knowing that if they did not retaliate then it would open them to further attacks from the other Homeworld Clans.
Victoria Shipyards
Victoria, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
12th March 3071
All across the Capellan Confederation celebrations are held as the Chancellor’s Pride, a Thera-class Carrier formerly known as the Delos in the Free Worlds League Navy, is launched from the Victoria Shipyards. Although this mighty vessel still has no fighters or DropShip support the vessel is fully operational and ready to serve its new masters and bolster the power of the Capellan‘s small WarShip fleet. All along the Capellan/Free Worlds League Remnant border there are heavy raids as several of the former Free Worlds League states launch raids into the Confederation in response for the launch. Speaking with his wife, Naomi, and son, Dao-shen, at the Forbidden City on Sian Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao vows that the Chancellor’s Pride will not be the last mighty WarShip to enter the Capellan Navy ready to serve its people and forward the nations goals. The Chancellor receives condemnation from several of the Succession Lords because of this statement and an official protest thought the Star League Advisory Council for his obvious attempt to destabilise the Inner Sphere.
Star League High Command
Kittery, Capellan March
Federated Suns
18th March 3071
Following the Capellan Chancellor’s words, and following a discussion with the First Lord, Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion offers Northwind and Outreach Protectorate status under the aegis of the Star League. Although the SLDF will not garrison either world with troops they will be able to hire warriors from the Northwind Highlanders or Wolf’s Dragoons without hassle and move to their defence/liberation if the Northwind Highlanders or Wolf’s Dragoons are overrun. Both worlds will also get a say via the Protectorate at the Star League Council. After a week negotiation both parties agree adding Northwind and Outreach to the growing list of protectorate worlds and giving the Star League Protectorate a greater say at future meetings of the Whitting Conference Council and in the Advisory Council meetings on Defiance. Both units remain mercenary worlds although the SLDF begins building recruitment centres on both worlds as they have on all Protectorate Worlds further increasing the size and power of the growing Star League.
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Almunge, Brocchi’s Cluster, Coudoux, Virentofta
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
Draconis Combine/Star Adder Border
22nd-31st March 3071
Following their strikes against Nova Cat forces in the Kerensky Cluster the Star Adders show they are not done by assaulting the Draconis Combine reinforcing their foothold in the Inner Sphere and striking at further targets. In the Draconis Combine’s Pesht Military District the worlds of Almunge, Brocchi’s Cluster, Coudoux, Virentofta are all targeted by Clan Star Adder ground and WarShip forces. In the Brocchi’s Cluster the DCS Takashi, a Kirishima-class Cruiser named for the Coordinator Takashi Kurita grand-father of the current Coordinator Hohiro and the Draconis Combine flagship during Operation Bulldog, is attacked by the Star Adder’s Divine Conquest, a Sovetskii Soyuz Heavy Cruiser. The Inner Sphere vessel puts up a good fight against the vastly superior Clan vessel. However with its support craft the Divine Conquest proves too good for the Draconis Combine Cruiser and destroy the WarShip leaving Brocchi’s Cluster is in Clan hands.
The only world that puts up any major resistance, other than Brocchi’s Cluster, is Coudoux. The world had been used by the DCMS to stockpile arms and ammunition for further assaults against the Ghost Bears or Star Adders and had been garrisoned by the elite Eighth Sword of Light Regiment and several conventional regiments and fighter wings. By the end of March however the constant battles against six Elite Star Adder Clusters has turned this well-armed, maintained, trained and supplied regiment into little more than a single Battalion of BattleMech troops and little more than a second combined arms battalion.
The Star Adder Galaxy Commander Fletcher Daniels, of the Star Adder Delta Galaxy, offers the survivors of the Eighth Sword of Light Hegira, honourable retreat, impressed by their displays of skill and courage. The Draconis Combine commander, the newly promoted Tai-sa Chin Sung Lee, replies an hour later respectfully declining saying he and his men will “defend Combine territory from all enemies of the Coordinator, honourable or not, they will retain their honour.†Impressed by such loyalty and commitment to their nation Fletcher Daniels orders his Star Colonels to conduct a Batchall giving the Eighth four extra days of preparation time at the Star Adders pull back. During this time hundreds of civilians escape from the planet under a white flag which the Star Adder WarShips respect without a single stop this allows hundreds of injured DCMS troopers to escape the world back to the Combine to fight again.
Then on the 5th April 3071 the remains of the Eighth Sword of Light fight against a cluster of troops from the various units of the Star Adder Delta Galaxy. In a long battle in which both Chin Sung Lee and Fletcher Daniels are both slain the world of Coudoux falls to Clan Star Adder and the Eighth Sword of Light joins the long list of DCMS units to have fallen to Clan forces. Coordinator Hohiro Kurita vows to fight the Clan Invasion to the end calling for any SLDF support that is available receiving the Twenty-first Striker and the newly reformed 151st Light Horse Regiments of the Eridani Light Horse and the Carrack-class Light Corvette SLS Maker for transport, escort and re-supply duties. Although the Draconis Combine sees this as little in the way of assistance from the SLDF the Maker and the men and women of the Eridani Light Horse soon changes their minds. The Maker’s, former-Clan Ice Hellion, crew make literally dozens of risky pirate jumps into the occupied Draconis Combine territories dropping off supplies and extra men to the beleaguered DCMS troops keeping several units operational when they should have been destroyed. While the Eridani Light Horse constantly raid the Star Adder’s rear areas hitting fast then fading away constantly keeping the Clan forces uneasy and constantly on alert. Allowing the DCMS and their mercenary support to cause heavier damage to the tired battle-weary troops.
The Cave, AFFS March Command
Saso City, New Syrtis
Capellan March, Federated Suns
1st April 3071
Following the attempt on Danai Centrella-Davion and her children on New Avalon the AFFS was on high alert for more attempted assassinations. In an ambitious/fool-hearted attempt at killing Field Marshal Baron George Hasek the would be assassin is discovered by Security personnel of the AFFS’s Cave Facility on New Syrtis how the assassin got that deep into a secure AFFS facility positioned under a capital city of a planet is unknown however following a brief fire fight with The Cave’s Cavalier Battle Armour-equipped Guards the assassin is slain and the Field Marshal is secured.
Despite best efforts by DMI and MIIO coroners the assassin is unidentifiable and is put down as a disgruntled member of the ethnic Capellan population residing in the Capellan March. Field Marshal George Hasek believes otherwise and orders several of the mercenary commands assigned to his march to begin raiding Capellan Confederation space believing that they are the ones responsible for attempting to have him killed and for attempting to have Danai killed on New Avalon. George also sends a letter to the First Prince pleading with the First Prince to declare open war on the Confederation and allow the High Command to release more units to his command. Victor unwilling to being a War that could start another Succession War refuses to agree to this action although he does not stop the Field Marshal and the DMI from authorising several covert strikes against the Capellan Confederation and the Taurian Concordat.
Ft. Damien Hasek
Kittery, Capellan March
Federated Suns
12th April 3071
Following several months of basic training Damien Redburn completes courses with flying colours and is ready for field training he takes his first Tour of Duty as a member of the Kittery Training Battalion which has been assigned to the First Kittery Borderers Independent Regimental Command as a raiding force to be used against the Capellan Confederation and Taurian Concordat providing their newest cadet with plenty of opportunities for live combat.
Armoured Vehicle Proving Grounds
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
16th April 3071
With assistance from Clan Nova Cat’s Tau Galaxy the engineers and scientists of the New Haiti Armoured Vehicle Plant debut the SM-1 Tank Destroyer six months ahead of schedule onto the New Haiti Proving Grounds the vehicle‘s showing breaks several of the records set by previous vehicles ensuring the continuation of the SM-Series. Because of the help provided by Tau Galaxy in the development and testing of this craft Tau Galaxy receive an entire Trinary of these vehicles before any other unit in the Nova Cat Touman.
The SM-1 is the first vehicles of the planned five vehicle SM-Series. The basic principle for the vehicles of the SM-Series will be based on the same chassis a fifty ton hover tank powered by 165-rated Fusion engine that provides a top speed of almost one hundred-and-thirty kilometres per hour. The SM1 is armed with a fixed-forward devastator assault-class Ultra Autocannon, fed by six tons of ammo allowing the tank to remain in the fight long after most BattleMechs and vehicles while still using its main gun. Backing up this cannon are four turreted light machine guns allowing it to take down anything using the cannon targeting certain points while using its speed to avoid return fire and allowing it to survive an encounter with standard infantry in a closed space and dish out a lot of hurt to the Poor-Bloody-Infantry (PBI) troopers when its machine guns are brought into play. With its speed and fusion reactor the vehicle is also adapt at crossing large distances quickly making it an able scout or harasser unit.
Fronc Reaches/Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery Regions
24th April 3071
In a secret agreement made between the two newest periphery nations, Fronc Reaches and the Filtvelt Coalition, as their leaders form the Reaches Coalition Pact. This Pact is a mutual defence and free trade alliance that means if either is attacked both band their resources together to ward off any attacks. It also means that citizens from both nations can trade freely without restriction in either realm helping build up both realm’s infrastructures and keep both nations independent and afloat.
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Are you planning on posting the stats for the SLDF Carrack Light Corvette?
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Yeah It is a great ship
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Are you planning on posting the stats for the SLDF Carrack Light Corvette?
Yeah It is a great ship
Glorified transport is up :)
Welcome to thread lonewolf
JumpShip Shipyard
Trznadel Cluster
Magistracy of Canopus
8th May 3071
Because of their troubled relations with the Free Worlds League Remnant, the St Ives Compact and the Federated Suns the Capellan Confederation High Command had turned to the Chancellor with a proposal to build a shipyard in Magistracy of Canopus Space far from any regular trade routes and controlled exclusively by Capellan-born personnel, effectively keeping a facility in their space secret from the Magistracy. Sun-Tzu Liao had agreed and the Capellans had chosen the Trznadel Cluster deep within Magistracy space and an area avoided by most commercial shipping. The shipping that did come into the area could be diverted by warning beacons that warned them away from the shipyard due to gravity shifts common in a Star Cluster that could tear a fragile JumpShip to pieces.
With structural work complete on the first stage of the Shipyard the Capellans brought the first three JumpShip yards online, although the facility can only build shipyards at present it is planned for the facility to be able to build WarShips by 3080. Defending the facility is an entire wing of Hell’s Black Aces Aerospace Regiment pilots, these mercenary warriors are amongst the most trusted in the Capellan’s arsenal despite their gun-for-hire status and will be rotated on a six month basis. Supporting these pilots is a dozen brand-new Assault DropShips and an entire regiment of Capellan Marines trained to fight in Zero-g. The troops are loyal to the Chancellor beyond everything and are under orders to destroy any intruders including Magistracy-born civilians who accidentally wander into the area.
Star Adder Claimed Territory
Sheridan, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
16th May 3071
Following the attack against Barcella by Star Adder forces the Nova Cats choose to retaliate in kind. Deploying the WarShips Nebulous, a York-class Destroyer/Carrier, and Blood Oath, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, along with the entire Upsilon Galaxy to the Star Adder holding of Sheridan in the Kerensky Cluster. Sheridan was one of the worlds the Adders hold exclusively so everyone would know the Nova Cats were getting back at them and not expanding the conflict by attacking other forces.
Entering the system first with most of Upsilon’s JumpShips the Nebulous immediately goes on the attack against the defending Nygaard, a Star Adder Sovetskii-Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, the Nova Cat Destroyer/Carrier was outclassed by the Heavy cruiser however the York-class vessel’s DropShips and Fighters are far superior to their Star Adder counterparts, and the skill of the Nova Cat crews is legendary amongst the Clans rivalling that of the famed Clan Snow Raven. After a brief bloody battle in which most of the DropShips and fighters on both sides are destroyed the heavily damaged Nygaard jumps clear of the system before it is destroyed abandoning a Carrier-class Fighter DropShip to the Nova Cats, the vessel and surviving crew are taken as isorla.
Scanning the system the Nebulous crew discover that the Cameron’s Flame, a Lola III-class Destroyer, is deeper in the system. Being a Kerensky Cluster system the Clans have full access to the system’s records and know everything about the Sheridan system and the various gravitational forces in the area. So using this data and the Nebulous’ sensor data the Blood Oath jumps into the system less than a day’s burn from the Cameron’s Flame. While the Blood Oath engages the smaller, lighter Star Adder vessel the Nova Cat Upsilon Galaxy arrive in JumpShips and troops DropShips beginning their drive into system.
A day later the Blood Oath and Cameron’s Flame make a couple of brief passes of each other causing heavy damage to both vessels, however, the Cameron’s Flame comes off worse with the Heavy Naval Autocannons of the Blood Oath making several massive hull breaches on the Destroyer. The Star Adder commander decides to leave the system to save his vessel leaving the Nova Cat’s in space superiority in the Sheridan system.
Days later the ground battle of Sheridan begins with the Nova Cat Upsilon Galaxy land under full fighter cover with their WarShips in close orbit. After a brief batchall with the Star Adder commanders the 889th and the 1114th Gatekeeper Clusters of Tau galaxy engage the Nova Cats in a brutal no holds barred battle on the salt plains of the barren northern continent while the rest of the Nova Cats and their WarShips watch the Star Adders other forces ensuring that no-one breaks the Trial. By the end of an eighteen hour battle the two Star Adder Clusters are left destroyed by the forces of Upsilon Galaxy the Nova Cat Commanders decide that once the Nova Cats have taken the salvage and a dozen bondsmen from the battle that their revenge has been taken and begin the long trek back to Barcella.
Wolf/Jade Falcon Territory
Eden, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
21st-28th May 3071
Despite Nova Cat attacks on their holdings on Sheridan the Star Adders continue with plans to launch assaults against Wolf and Jade Falcon Homeworld territories. Launching a full assault against the Jade Falcon’s territories on Eden the First Adder Sentinels Cluster and the Galaxy Command Trinary of the Star Adder’s Kappa Galaxy they first target the Jade Falcons destroying the First Falcon Dragoons and Third Falcon Velites Clusters of the Falcon’s Sigma and Theta Galaxies in four days of fighting taking over one third of the planet and throwing the Jade Falcons completely off the planet.
Not happy with just one third the Star Adders call in reinforcements in the form of the Three Hundredth Adder Sentinels Cluster also of Kappa Galaxy. With these extra fresh troops the Star Adders launch another campaign this time against Clan Wolf’s Twelfth Wolf Regulars Cluster which was spread over another third of the planet. Over the next three days the Star Adders are able to whittle the Wolf defenders down to a single Trinary of warriors which are taken as Isorla by the victorious Adder forces leaving only Star Adder and Stone Rhino Clans on the world, although previously allied the Stone Rhinos move their forces to a higher state of alert due to the present unpredictable nature of the Star Adders.
The Star Adder Khan, Stanislov N’Buta, contacts the Clan Stone Rhino Khan, Elizabeth Radick and asked the Stone Rhino Khan if she would still be interested in honouring the Alliance the Stone Rhinos and Star Adders shared from their brief time together in the Inner Sphere together. Not wanting to anger the Star Adders and seeing the wisdom of the move Elizabeth Radick agreed to the continuance of the alliance with shared mining and construction agreements between the two clans within an hour of the Star Adder victory.
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Dagda, Jade Falcon/Star Adder border
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
14th June 3071
In response to previous assaults by Clan Star Adder forces on their territory the Jade Falcon Clan’s Zeta Galaxy launches an attack on the Star Adder holdings on Dagda in the Clan Homeworlds. With the Fifty-third Battle and the Zeta Solahma Clusters launching an attack on the Star Adder’s 417th Adder Sentinels Cluster of Kappa Galaxy. Not only did the Star Adder Cluster hold off the Jade Falcons they drove them back to their enclaves destroying the Fifty-third Battle in the process. Before the Jade Falcons could retaliate the Stone Rhino Clan also on Dagda made a claim for the Jade Falcon’s eight percent of Dagda fighting against the Zeta Solahma Cluster.
The Jade Falcon’s battle weary warriors lost a battle against the Stone Rhino’s Omega Galaxy who quickly secured the territory before the Star Adders could come looking. When the news of this defeat reached the Jade Falcon Khans they made the choice to permanently fold Zeta Galaxy into Sigma Galaxy in an attempt to wash away the dishonour of another defeat.
 
Nova Cat Shipyards, Varnay System
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
18th June 3071
Following two years of refitting in the Varnay system the Avalon-class Cruiser Yvonne Steiner-Davion gained from the Federated Suns by Clan Nova Cat when they traded a Whirlwind-class Destroyer to the Suns re-launches. Nova Cat Engineers and Scientists have modified the vessel so extensively that it is no longer an Avalon-class vessel. Instead the Nova Cats refer to the vessel as a Scimitar-class Heavy Cruiser under the name Excalibur honouring the nation the vessel originally came from. Although the vessel physically resembles an Avalon at range its performance is far better.
The Excalibur is officially added to the Sandra Rosse Naval Star brining this unit back to full strength of five WarShips, however instead of joining the other vessels for exercises it is called to New Barcella to collect supplies and a very special party for an even more special mission.
Randis, Fiefdom of Randis
Periphery
8th July 3071
At the beginning of July the newly commissioned Nova Cat vessel Excalibur arrives in the Randis system a tiny insignificant system between the Nova Cat’s Den and the Taurian Concordat/Calderon Protectorate. Hearing reports from the planet it appears the Nova Cat’s arrival is met with celebration not panic while around the Inner Sphere and periphery people wonder what is going on? Have the Nova Cats returned to the Crusader path?
Two days later the Excalibur is parked in a high orbit over the capital city Randis in perfect bombardment position many wonder if the Nova Cats will turn a Turtle Bay on the tiny world, a Federated Suns Fox-class Corvette, FSS Intrepid, enters the system to observe, the Nova Cats immediately detect the vessel and choose to ignore the vessel, it is insignificant to their Heavy Cruiser in size or firepower. Instead of wiping out the planets only real city the Nova Cats deploy a single DropShip from the Excalibur, a single Vanguard-class vessel, the Khan’s transport. While the Khan’s DropShip burns to the planet the Excalibur, its fighters and DropShips all perform combat drills in full view of the FSS Intrepid showing the Federated Suns crew what they would face if they tried to interfere with the Nova Cat’s Plans.
With the Khan’s vessel landing at the planet’s main Spaceport the Brotherhood of Randis, the worlds only defending BattleMech Battalion meets the Nova Cat DropShip. Instead of the Nova Cats charging out firing out of the DropShip walks twenty-five Elemental Battle Armour troopers in full Elemental Battle Armour followed by twenty-five freeborn Nova Cat and native born former-Tortuga Dominions troopers all equipped with Nighthawk XXI Power Armour (Light) suits carrying Gauss SMGs both sets of warriors line up facing each other. With their honour guard in place Khan Canin Rosse and his wife Yvonne then walk their Mechs, Canin’s Dragon Cat OmniMech and Yvonne’s specially modified Striker BattleMech, clear of the cargo bay. In unison the Brotherhood of Randis warriors raise their BattleMech arms in salute, this is not an invasion, this is a transfer of power. As the Khan’s party are welcomed to Randis five more Nova Cat DropShips full of supplies soon follow supplying Randis’ people with fresh advanced equipment and supplies.
Two days later the Nova Cats issue a warning to the Intrepid that they are in the Nova Cat’s Den claimed territory and are unwelcome they are ordered to leave immediately or be fired upon by the Excalibur and her fighters. The WarShip under direct orders not to engage the Nova Cat forces flees from the system. The Nova Cat Khan informs the people of Randis of his intention to form the First Nova Cat Brotherhood Cluster around the Brotherhood of Randis warriors with command going provisionally to former-Grand Knight Lucas Beckett, a former Smoke Jaguar warrior. Lucas Beckett fights off three Nova Cat warriors beating to retain the position of commander of the Brotherhood and a Nova Cat’s commission of Star Colonel, the Cluster is to be assigned directly to Delta Galaxy under the Khan‘s command. Khan Canin Rosse knows that agreeing to Lucas Beckett’s command and his retaining of his Clan Bloodname, despite being from a dead Clan, is the way to wining the people of Randis’ trust and agrees to both commands.
The Nova Cats begin putting the native Randis population under Clan doctrine training and the troops that supported the Brotherhood begin training in their various skills, if they are good enough they will join the Nova Cat’s Touman as Clan Warriors. Fortunately for the Nova Cats because of Lucas Beckett’s heritage as a Clan Warrior Randis had already adopted several Clan lifestyle points and was well on its way to being a Clan world before the Nova Cats arrived. The Nova Cats also announce that Randis will be known by the name it was founded under Hope, as a sign of where the Nova Cats and the people of the world plan for their relationship’s future.
Camelot Medical Facility
Flensburg City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
15th/16th July 3071
Following the previous assassination attempt Danai Centrella Davion is under heavy guard from the First Davion Guards RCT’s First Davion Royal Guards Infantry Regiment when she gives birth to her third and fourth children. Elder twin Fredrick is born at two minutes to midnight in the Camelot Medical Facility while his sister Sarah is born at three minutes past one of the next morning following a slight complication all three are strong, healthy and resting following the birth. Following the birth of the Royal children at Camelot, and with the Davion family’s permission, the Medical Facility is renamed the Camelot Royal Medical Facility to honour the event.
Lum, DropShip Production Facility
Snow Raven Territory
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
8th August 3071
Following reports hearing of the Raven-class Fighter-carrier DropShip created by Clan Snow Raven Oathmaster Zane Carns made a request to the Khans of Clan Nova Cat for the acquisition of several of the DropShips. Following a quick travel from Barcella to Lum the Oathmaster meets up the Snow Raven Loremaster Klaus Harper.
“What can the Snow Ravens do for you today?†The Snow Raven Loremaster seemed quite bored with it all, there were few Snow Ravens on Lum anymore following the Snow Raven’s moving into the Outworlds Alliance near the Inner Sphere, the only real interesting thing about the system was the mass shipyards at the Lagrange points in the system, in the Homeworlds and perhaps the entire human sphere they were the largest and most complex shipyards built by man.
“We would like possession of five of your Raven-class Aerospace DropShips.†Zane said straight away there was no point in hiding his intent. He had taken troops with him, if they needed them he’d fight for them.
“And how would you like to acquire these vessels?†Klaus asked Zane had arrived with a WarShip and four DropShips they could fight if need be.
“We are willing to trade for them.â€
“Glad to hear it, what do you want to offer us?â€
“We have a Vanguard-class DropShip full of equipment which includes a Nova Cat OmniMech and an Ocelot BattleMech.â€
“And the technical information to build them?â€
“All three designs?â€
“Aff, and add in the Shoden Assault Tank.†Klaus Harper said “we will throw in the plans and rights to build the Raven for Clan Nova Cat into the exchange, if that will help sweeten the deal Quiaff?â€
“Aff, I believe it will. We have a deal?†Zane asked ending the quickest negotiations in history.
“Seyla†Klaus said standing up and leaving the room.
“Seyla†Zane whispered “for some reason he does not like me.†Zane said shrugging his shoulders standing and leaving the base, he did not like negotiating for things but it was the way of things. In his visions Zane had seen the Nova Cats and the Snow Ravens travelling down parallel paths without conflict and both prospering, hopefully they could find that path. Within an hour the equipment had been transferred between both sides and the trade was over.
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Castle Northwind
Northwind, Tara
Chaos March/Star League Protectorate
15th August 3071
After living with her disability for a time and after council with doctors, family and other members of her command Rianna Rose pledges to take Myomer Implants to allow her to live a normal life Jeremiah Rose agrees to join his Black Thorns with the Highlanders following a joint offer of support from the other Northwind Highlander regimental commanders and the Clan Elders.
Plans are laid down for an entire regiment to be built around the Black Thorns. This regiment will depart from tradition by forming units made of ComGuard-type Level II demi-company sized units fully integrating Infantry, Armour and Mechs. The new unit will be known as the Northwind Renegades. Like Loren Jaffray, an officer from the outside, Jeremiah Rose is promoted to the rank of Lt. Colonel instead of full Colonel, the rank of other Highlander Regiment Commanders, he will, like Jaffray, have to win the respect of the others before full acceptance.
Marian Hegemony/Free World’s Remnant
Periphery/Inner Sphere (Various Worlds)
20th-28th August 3071
Striking deep into several of the Free Worlds League’s remnant realms, these raids do little damage and took very little in the grand scheme. The remnant realms mostly chose to ignore them for the most part continuing their plans against each other. For his part Caesar Julius O’Reilly was pleased with the results his realm now had equipment and personnel capable of renovating the MHS Caesar, the Dart-class Light Cruiser found a year earlier. With other realms still unaware of the vessel’s existence the Hegemony could continue work on their most secret of projects.
Primary Conference Room, Gravity Deck Alpha
Terror of the Deep, Nightlord-class Battleship
Deep Periphery, Near Jarnfolk Territory
4th September 3071
Onboard the Clan’s flagship WarShip Terror of the Deep, a Nightlord-class Battleship, Clan Diamond Shark holds its annual Bloodnamed Warrior’s Council. This meeting involved every single Bloodnamed Warrior in the Clan involved in a free-for-all question and answer with the leaders of the Clan. If they agree things return as normal, if not then Trials follow the meeting, however, no trials take place during the meeting. At the meeting Loremaster Semi Kalasa brings forth information surrounding the Diamond Shark’s successes in breeding Sea Foxes on ever one of their Homeworld holdings and in several periphery held and Inner Sphere trading Worlds.
The Sea Fox had been the Clan’s animal Totem when Founder Nicholas Kerensky had formed the Clan and the Clan had been known by that name until the Sea Fox species was almost totally wiped out by the Diamond Shark a genetically modified shark created by Clan Snow Raven scientists. The Sea Fox had adopted the Diamond Shark as their Totem because it was the superior animal however they had secretly maintained a breeding program for the Sea Fox keeping the species alive. Only recently had their breeding programs truly begun to bore fruit and the Sea Fox species was more numerous than it had ever been in its history breeding in the wild on more worlds than ever.
Following a call by several of the Galaxy Commanders and the warriors under the command the Diamond Shark Khans put it to a vote of all the Diamond Shark Bloodnamed should the Clan revert once more to the name it was given from the Founder? The answer from the Bloodnamed warriors was a resounding yes and the Clan officially renamed and reformed under the Sea Fox name, although the decision was made to maintain the Diamond Shark as their second totem honouring the animal that had taken them to this point.
Following the meeting there is a definite change in the Clan and not only because of the name change and the rebirth of the Sea Fox. Factions within the Clan loyal to either a Bloodname, Galaxy or individual begin to become more and more noticeable, certain units preferring to be assigned with each other WarShips staying close to certain other vessels. Although there is not official split now the lines of such a break become to be visible to outsiders and people within the Clan.
Cosara Weaponries Factory
Northwind, Tara
Star League Protectorate
18th September 3071
Using knowledge and experience gained while building the Shriltron OmniVehicle and the Black Watch BattleMech Cosara Weaponries on Northwind produces their first combat capable OmniMech. Named the BKW-01 Black Watch the Mech is a direct upgrade of the companies Black Watch BattleMech supplied to the Northwind Highlanders and the Star League Defence Force. The Mech combines the features of the original BattleMech with new modular weapon, equipment and heat sink systems and upgraded electronics system producing a superior design. The initial designs generally follow the standard Black Watch load-out options however Cosara promise that there will be a wider variety of weapons options available in the future.
In a move directly mirroring the launch of the original Black Watch Cosara gift a companies worth of the new OmniMech to the Royal Black Watch Regiment of the Star League Defence Force and allow the SLDF the same buying options as the Northwind Highlander regiments, marking the first time this has happened since the early 3050s when the Highlanders secured Cosara as their exclusive supplier of weapons systems. Among the Highlanders the newly formed Northwind Renegades Regiment is the first to receive this powerful new design greatly increasing its still limited firepower.
Jade Falcon held Territory
Lum, Marshall, Huntess
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Space
21st September 3071
In a series of coordinated strikes Clan Star Adder launches a far ranging strike against Clan Jade Falcon’s Kerensky Cluster garrison forces on three worlds. In the Lum system the Star Adders destroy the Jade Falcon WarShip White Talon, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, and the Sixth Provisional Garrison Cluster of Epsilon Provisional Galaxy. The Star Adder losses are light in comparison a trinary of ground troops, two DropShips and some light damage to their WarShip Exodus Avenger, a York-class Destroyer/Carrier.
On Marshall the Adders take heavier damage losing the 935th Gatekeeper Cluster of Mu Provisional Galaxy while securing over a third of the planet taking out the Jade Falcon’s Eighth and Eighteenth Falcon Regulars Clusters both of the Jade Falcon’s Epsilon Provisional Galaxy.
Finally in the Huntress system the Star Adder’s experience their best victory and their biggest losses. The Jade Falcons had stationed the veteran Fifth Battle Cluster, the last of Epsilon Galaxy, and the WarShip Blue Aerie, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, in the system to keep watch on the Star League Garrison forces on Huntress. First the Star Adder WarShips Constantineau, a Liberator-class Cruiser, and the Warlock, a Lola-III-class Destroyer, both engaged the Blue Aerie destroying it at the cost of the Warlock and heavy fighter and DropShip losses. With the Nadir point secured the Star Adder forces moved in system contacting the Stone Rhino forces on Huntress, as the 178th Adder Sentinels of Mu Provisional Galaxy landed the Stone Rhinos also launched an assault on the Jade Falcons flank. Within three hours the Jade Falcons had surrendered the territory to the Star Adder/Stone Rhino forces. The Star Adders grateful for their allies assistance seeded half the territory gained on Huntress to the Stone Rhinos, the Jade Falcons on the other hand were furious launching a furious attack on the two Clans in the Grand Council on Strana Mechty however without the resources in the Homeworlds to launch an effective counter attack, and almost no support on the Clan council, the Jade Falcons can do little about the attacks.
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Ruins of Gabriel Anchorage
Classified Location, Lyran Alliance
1st October 3071
Under the aegis of the Star League Defence Force engineers formerly in the employ of ComStar arrive at the Ruins of Gabriel Anchorage with the SLS Maker in support for transport and security. On the bridge of the SLS Maker Commodore Shauna Tyler and Major Keith Geddes were looking out of the observation windows at the fore of the vessel, these were made from transparent Ferro-aluminium plating so they were given a wide view of open space, during combat pressure doors would close over this area ensuring it could sustain weapons fire. Around the Maker were half a dozen transport DropShips and two wings of aerospace fighter so far they‘d not needed the additional support but it was nice to have. “Well here we are, let us see if the ComGuard scouts did a good job when looking at this place†Shauna said quietly as her vessel continued in system scanning as it went, its powerful sensors detecting the facility ahead behind a large moon.
“I know a couple of them personally, they did a good job Commodore whatever happens.†Keith said he was a former member of ComStar, and had full confidence in the scouts, while Shauna was a former Clan Ice Hellion warrior taken as a bondsmen then as an SLDF officer along with the rest of the Maker‘s crew, who had almost no trust in the former ComStar people including, to a certain degree Keith.
“Well let us see.†she said as the Maker’s engines moved to standby and the gravity they had been enjoying began to leave them. Halfway along the Maker’s hull the gravity deck activated and began to provide that area of the vessel with positive gravity. However until the vessel’s engines activated once more the rest of the ship would experience zero-g conditions. Keith lost his footing slightly but was able to grab the banister beside the window and was able to hold his position. “Careful†Shauna whispered so on-one else would hear a small smile crept onto her face at his discomfort.
“I’d better get used to it, across there I’d not expect much gravity.†He said as the Maker drifted closer to the space stations in front of them he noticed that Shauna was not listening however looking out the windows.
“Sensors scan that facility, I want detailed scans†Shauna said into her personal communicator.
“Something wrong?†Keith asked looking at the stations then back at the former Clan warrior.
“Aff†she said looking out the windows at the massive hollowed asteroids that made up the Ruins of Gabriel.
“Star Captain†the sensor officer replied before realising his error “apologies, Commodore, sensors detect none of the mothballed vessels reported by the ComStar scouts. All facilities are fully intact however there are no WarShips in the vicinity.†He replied his voice confused by the results of the Makers scans. According to ComStar’s scouts there over a dozen major WarShips, in various states of repair, in mothball at the shipyards now there were none.
“It appears either your scouts were either mistaken or there is someone working against us. Bridge, order the DropShips to scout out all facilities.†Shauna muttered quietly as the SLDF DropShips and fighters began searching the facility for any sign of who took the mothballed vessels, after an extensive search they find nothing.
“Very true, someone is always against us.†Keith said slightly resigned, after the horrors of the Battle of Terra he didn’t care for much anymore. “I will order my men to begin moving to the primary habitat first. Perhaps we could find some clue to where they have gone or at least who took them.†He said without another word the Major left the bridge. By the end of the day they had searched the biggest of the habitats but they had found nothing the SLDF had been left empty handed, they would disassemble some of the stations but they would get nothing more.
In the weeks following the discovery of the theft Star League Intelligence Corps Operatives attached to the expedition and back on Terra would go through terraquads of data referring to the site trying to figure out who else could have known about the Ruins of Gabriel however no-one outside the Word of Blake can be identified and since the Word of Blake was defeated or had disappeared there was no-one to question. It appears even the Clans have forgotten about the shipyard and although WolfNet seemed aware of ‘Gabriel’ they had no idea what it was or where it was located, who stole the derelict vessels would remain a mystery for now.
Imperial Palace
Luthien, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
13th October 3071
Following years of heavy fighting and some serious losses the leader of the Draconis Combine Coordinator Hohiro Kurita announces that the Second and Third Regiments of the Elite Sword of Light Brigade will be reformed.
Not only this but these regiments will be reformed with full Battle Armour Battalions, Aerospace Fighter Support and full transport assets. He also announces that the other Sword of Light Regiments will receive upgrades and that the Genyosha Regiments will receive permanent WarShip support attached to their aerospace commands by the end of the year as the Draconis Combine Mustered Society continues to evolve its fighting style to cope with the changing face of modern warfare.
Atreus, Clan Fire Mandrill Territory
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
28th October 3071
On the plains of Atreus, in the heart of the Kerensky Cluster, in the Clan Homeworlds the Twenty-third Air Assault Force Cluster of Clan Fire Mandrill’s Kindraa Mick-Kreese-Kiline stepped out onto the field of battle. On the other side of the battleground stood the warriors of the Twenty-first Combined Strike Cluster of the Deathstrike Galaxy of Clan Sea Fox. Three days before Khan Hanna Coston leader of Clan Sea Fox and commander of the Deathstrike Galaxy had arrived. She had declared that her Deathstrike Khanate, whatever that was, and that she wanted possession of the Fire Mandrill’s Jungle Heat, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, stationed in high orbit. She bid the full force of the Twenty-first Combined Strike Cluster of her Deathstrike Khanate. Kindraa Leader Andrew Kreese commander of Atreus’ Fire Mandrill defences and of the Mick-Kreese-Kiline Kindraa as a whole had bid the Twenty-third Air Assault Force Cluster in retaliation knowing that loosing such an important vessel as the Jungle Heat will hurt his Clan.
Following a thirteen hour battle both Clusters are effectively broken by the battle with warriors on both sides fighting until their Mechs, vehicles and Battle Armour weapons overheat and shut-down. In the end the Sea Foxes hold the battle with two barely operational BattleMechs and three Battle Armour troopers. A victory but a costly one for the Sea Foxes, as soon as the battle is complete a Sea Fox prize-crew arrive aboard the Jungle Heat and take the WarShip out of the Kerensky Cluster for the Sea Fox held Jarnfolk territory, there the Sea Fox engineers begin the long process of modifying the vessel into the configuration the Jungle Heat will use.
Eridani Light Horse Command, Fort Winson
Dieron, Dieron Prefecture
Draconis Combine
8th November 3071
Following her Regiment’s recall from the Draconis Combine/Star Adder border Colonel Sandra Barclay, commander of the Seventy-first Light Horse Regiment, was more than angry that they had been recalled to their base world Dieron deep within the centre of the Inner Sphere. Although the Draconis Combine and Star Adder forces were at a sort of cease fire at present the situation was fluid and highly dangerous for all concerned. Having an SLDF regiment in position had bolstered the Draconis Combine defenders and now they were alone again, the last thing the Clans needed was an opportunity to move forward again taking yet more territory that the Star League would no doubt end up having to take back. She stormed into Brigade Commander General Edwin Amis’ office inside Fort Winson, a former Star League outpost restored by the Eridani Light Horse and the Draconis Combine engineers. “What the hell is this?†She said looking directly at her commander and the commander of the whole brigade.
“You mean ‘what the hell is this sir’ don’t you? Colonel†Edwin said removing a smoking, stinking, cigar from his mouth.
“Aff, I mean Aye, sir†she stammered of all the Eridani Light Horse Warriors Sandra Barclay was one of the most experienced and had spent the most time with and fighting against the Clans. Because of her extensive experience with them she’d picked up several of their language and cultural beliefs. “I apologise, sir, it is just that my unit was beginning to make some headway with the locals breaking their Clan doctrine the Star Adders had given them. Now we have been pulled out they are defenceless and the DCMS is stretched too much to deal with re-training some locals to get rid of civilian problems, their whole samurai beliefs it is finished and ended when the enemy gets off planet.â€
“We have bigger problems than the DCMS or the Star Adders?â€
“Bigger problems, sir?†She said calming down, she knew the General wouldn’t have called her back for something mundane.
“Aye, Paul Calvin was killed two weeks ago.â€
“Paul’s dead?†She asked Colonel Paul Calvin commander of the Nineteenth Striker Regiment assigned to the garrison of Huntress and the defence of the SLDF Embassy on Strana Mechty in the Clan Homeworlds. “How?†She asked Paul’s Regiment had replaced her own on Huntress just over a year before, the Striker itself had only recently been rebuilt from its demolition by Clan Jade Falcon.
“Apparently a Jade Falcon Star Colonel came to Huntress looking for revenge for the damage the Nineteenth did to his unit in 3064. This Star Colonel, a Colton Pryde, challenged Paul to a one-on-one duel.â€
“He didn’t accept?†Sandra asked she’d be shocked if he had, the Inner Sphere may have proven itself superior in large scale battles but in one-on-one battles they could rarely defeat the superior Clan warriors with their superior Mechs.
“Aye, he did.†Edwin said he saw Sandra’s face drop with disapproval “if he hadn’t Colton threatened the entire Nineteenth Striker with destruction. Because he accepted the Jade Falcons left the Nineteenth alone but leaderless the Regiment is now open to further attacks.â€
“What about Paul’s XO?â€
“Major Trahn, is a very capable officer however he is no diplomat.†Edwin said “I need someone who knows the Clans who can fight them and work with them if need be.â€
“We just came back from Huntress†Sandra protested it was a six month trip to the Clan Homeworlds then a minimum of a year time there, it was like being a mercenary again.
“The Commanding-General believes your unit is the best choice… and so do I.†Edwin said raising from his chair for the first time “Sandra, I’m not going to order your unit to Huntress it’s a volunteer mission.â€
“We’ll do it.†She said without another thought, she was a career Eridani Light Horse officer and would never let them down and now as part of the SLDF she could never let down the Star League either.
“Thank you, Colonel, we have set up a priority Alpha circuit for you to take you from here to Huntress beyond the Clan Occupation Zones. I can’t give you a WarShip but the route we have planned will keep you out of harms way.â€
“Understood. What are my orders once at Huntress?â€
“Ensure the Nineteenth are evacuated back to the Inner Sphere, then standard Huntress mission.†Sandra nodded, she’d wanted clearance to hunt down Colton Pryde but hadn’t received it and she wouldn’t go over her orders. Turning to leave Sandra moved to the door “And Colonel, if you get Pryde in your sights kill the bastard.†Edwin added before she left the office.
“Aff†she muttered quietly if it was the last thing she ever did she’d take down the Jade Falcon Star Colonel.
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Ionus, Illium Naval Engineering Shipyards
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
12th November 3071
Following their successful raids for engineers and scientists willing to help with the refurbishment of the MHS Caesar the Marian Hegemony now launch an ambitious raid into the former-Free Worlds League realm the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth targeting the Ionus based Illium Naval Engineering Systems Shipyards.
Unlike the previous Capellan Confederation raid which netted that realm the Thera-class Carrier Delos the Marians do not go for a long drawn out strategy instead jumping transport DropShips in days before at regular points then once they were within range of the shipyards jumping in at a well-known pirate point with over one hundred aerospace fighters and dozen DropShips (most of the Marians Naval forces). Although the defending Mordred, an Eagle-class Frigate, causes considerable damage to the assaulting Marians destroying six of their DropShips and over a dozen fighters the Periphery raiders are persistent and know where to look capturing almost all the supplies they were wanting and an entire DropShip full of germanium, the expensive component critical for JumpShip construction.
Days later Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Captain-General Corrine Marik declares that her nation is at a state of war with the Marian Hegemony because of the raid. Unfortunately because she shares no direct borders with the Hegemony and because the other Free Worlds League realms are unwilling to assist there is nothing she can do at present to retaliate for the raid. The Free Worlds League’s disjointed unorganised SAFE organisation are unable to concentrate against the Marian’s due to the ongoing internal Free Worlds League troubles.
President’s Office
New Promise, Gillian’s Gold
Rim Collection, Periphery
28th November 3071
Following months of negotiations with the Lyran Alliance through their Ambassador, Merle Briggs, the Rim Collection’s leader President William Roberts is ready to sign the Rim Alliance with the Lyran Alliance however he knows he must keep his people on his side and maintain the Rim Collection’s independence in these times so heads a press conference as the contract is signed.
“Good Evening Ladies and Gentlemen of the Rim Collection. Today marks an important moment of our history. Alongside me is Ambassador Merle Briggs, leader of the Lyran Alliance envoy based here on Gillian’s Gold. In February of this very year the Lyran Alliance approached us with a proposal that would increase income from trade and travel and provide the Rim Collection with a stronger defence. In conjunction with Colonel Jerry Able, leader of the Able’s Aces and of our nation’s small but courageous military defence forces we opened up a line of negotiations with the Lyran Alliance. A line of negotiation which ended just yesterday with an agreement.†He said pausing to allow the news of an agreement with a far larger realm sink in, William knew many of these people had come here specifically to avoid living under the rule of a larger realm and that there could be panic with this news, Colonel Able had put his forces on standby to act as support for the local police units to keep law and order if need be. “We will maintain our independence with this agreement. Businesses will now be able to trade without tax or restriction with the Lyran Alliance on both imports and exports. The military will receive newer equipment and upgrades for current stockpiles as money permits. The Lyran Alliance will be allowed to set up trade embassies on all of our worlds and station a company of troops within our borders based primarily on Gillian’s Gold. Speaking with Colonel Able and other advisors we believe that the Rim Collection is getting a better deal out of this than perhaps we could ever have wanted for. Only time will tell if this is the best choice we could have made but it is a decision that has been made. I call on all Collection citizens to support this plan for the future and look forward to a prosperous future with the Lyran Alliance as our trusted ally. I thank you for your attention and you continued support, blessed path to all.†He said signing off the camera man signaled that the camera was over with and the three went their separate ways “well it’s done, Ambassador the Lyran Alliance had better uphold their part of this deal.â€
“We shall Mr. President, just ensure that your people are kept under control I would hate for that company to have to be used in defence of Lyran Assets from a domestic threat.â€
“If they were my Aces would gun them down and then tear your Assets to bits, Ambassador, keep your dogs on a leash.†Colonel Jerry Able said quietly “Mr President, my forces are on standby on all six Collection worlds. If we are required please call, good evening to you.†Jerry said bowing his head slightly then leaving the room, in his heart Jerry knew this was a mistake but his Aces’ formerly a mercenary command were now so entwined in the Collection’s day-to-day affairs that they could never leave, hell he was part of the President’s staff. All they could do is keep working away with what was thrown at them and that the Able’s Aces had always been good at.
Orestes, Battle Armour Production Plant
Rasalhague Dominion
14th December 3071
On the site of a former ComStar Battle Armour factory for the Kobold Battle Armour Clan Ghost Bear opens a new Battle Armour factor to be run by Rasalhaguen born workers and initially be distributed to former Free Rasalhague Republic units still operation within the Rasalhague Dominion borders.
In an effort to welcome more native Rasalhague-born warriors into their Touman and make these warriors more effective the Ghost Bears have developed the Clan Standard Battle Armour suit developed using Clan technology but specifically for the generally smaller build freeborn infantry warriors. Because the suit is designed specifically for them the Ghost Bear Khans and Rasalhague Prince Galaxy Commander Ragnar Magnesson ensures that the production of these suits go to conventional infantry units in service already before forming any new unit.
Quick to smell a deal the merchants from the Sea Fox Clan soon arrives around Orestes to trade for the design transferring almost and entire Cluster of Equipment and a massive shipment of HarJel sealant to the Ghost Bears to gain full rights to the design and be able to manufacture it. By the end of the following year almost every faction has access to the design with some such as the Nova Cats and Exiled Wolf Clans mass producing the design.
Protector’s Palace
Samantha, Taurus
Taurian Concordat
25th December 3071
On Christmas Day as people around the Inner Sphere celebrate the giving and receiving of presents the Taurian Concordat wakens to bad news. During the night their Protector-Governor Grover Sharplen passes away in his sleep. This robs the Taurian Concordat of a leader however Brenda Calderon steps into the breach temporally keeping the nation stable. Although deep into her retirement the seventy-nine year old marshal promises that she will not hold onto the position and instead strive to reunite the Taurian Concordat and the Calderon Protectorate.
Soon after her taking of the position Brenda contacts the Federated Suns and asks for permission to send Janice Calderon to the NAIS for treatment of her Brisbane Syndrome, a dilapidating condition that has taken the far younger Janice away from the linage to the throne. Knowing that she may not be able to unite the Concordat and Protectorate alone or before she herself dies Brenda is setting her nation up for the future.
She also sends a message to Marshal (Baron) Cham Kithrong leader of the Calderon Protectorate informing him of Grover’s death and the steps she wants to take with the Concordat and Protectorate. Kithrong does not respond to her message immediately leaving Brenda worried that reuniting the nations may be more difficult than she thought.
 
Twycross, Deathstrike Command
Clan Sea Fox Territory
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
29th December 3071
Involving three of the Clan Sea Fox Khanates, Faulk, Territorial Waters and Deathstrike, Clan Hell’s Horses and Clan Sea Fox trade WarShip assets. The Sea Fox vessels Tracy and Sharon (both Essex-class Destroyers) and Space Hunter and Predator (both Lola III-class Destroyers) are transferred to Hell’s Horses command under the watchful eyes of Khan Hanna Coston standing aboard the Terror of the Deep, a Nightlord-class Battleship, command vessel of the Faulk Khanate and her Clan’s flagship. At the same time the Hell’s Horses were transferring the Agamemnon and Blood Horse (both Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers).
This deal significantly increases the Naval strength of the Hell’s Horses Touman and increases the amount of Troop Cruisers available to the Sea Fox Clan to Nine with the Faulk and Territorial Waters Khanates both receiving one of these vessels each. The Deathstrike Khanate instead of gaining a WarShip gains enough troops and equipment to fill out two Clusters worth of troops increasing their ground troop forces to six clusters more than any of the other Khanates while still controlling three WarShips maintaining Hanna Coston‘s grip on the largest portion of the Clan‘s forces. The Sea Fox Clan then sneaks both new Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers out of the Inner Sphere and back to the Jarnfolk territory for refitting joining the rest of the Clan’s Potemkins. Fortunately several of the vessels are complete so the refitting for the two new vessels can begin immediately.
And so ends 3071
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3072
Augustine, Rousset-Marik Royal Residence
Rousset-Marik Alliance, Former Free Worlds League
4th January 3072
It was quiet in the Royal Residence on Augustine, a calm summer day, soon that would change autumn was on its way and soon after that winter. Duke Colonel Jonas Rousset-Marik had known this world’s seasons for almost four decades and still they caught him, he’d fought on hundreds of planets as a Mercenary and more recently in the defence of his own people and never encountered a weather system as radical and crazy as that on Augustine.
For Jonas it was refreshing to be at peace, since he was eighteen he’d fought day-in-day out either on their field of battle or just for acceptance because of one thing his name - Rousset-Marik the Rousset part never caused a problem it was always the Marik side, it was the Marik side that had brought him and his sister back to Augustine following the break-up of Parliament, the exposure of Thomas Marik as a fake and the civil war in the Free Worlds League.
Something was wrong today, Jonas just couldn’t work out what. It wasn’t his birthday, he hated surprises but his sisters loved them especially when the word ‘party’ followed them, it wasn‘t something like that it was something more immediate, something closer. Turning on the balcony he was confronted by a trooper clad in green Power Armour Jonas opened his mouth to call for the guards and the trooper moved first punching him in the throat crushing his throat, suddenly Jonas could not breath let alone think, shout or fight. The trooper did not wait thrusting a long curved blade into Jonas’ chest smashing the breast bone slicing into the heart, death was nearly instantaneous.
Throwing Jonas’ corpse over his shoulder the Power Armoured Assassin lit his suits jump jets and lifted off the balcony running as he hit the ground despite the extra weight caused by the body. Not pausing to catch a breath or look back the trooper kept moving until he met up with a small hover truck. Throwing the body into the back the assassin covered it with a trampoline then kept moving allowing the truck to move on alone, no alarm bells from the Residence yet meant he’d gotten away cleanly, just like he liked it.
Thirty minutes later the Assassin reached his waiting Mule-class DropShip, the Hover truck had arrived ten minutes before and was parked between the Mechs in the main cargo bay. Only one Mule-class DropShip in the Inner Sphere was configured this way and carried a single green power armour suit. The Bounty Hunter’s transport.
In the far end of the bay out of sight of the outside world stood a green Marauder II C BattleMech his favoured Mech. “Clear us for lift off and contact Marik, tell them we have their prize.†He said to the techs in the bay still dressed in full armour disappearing into one of the side bays. So secret was his identity that only a select few knew his true identity even among the crew, that was how the Bounty Hunter lived his life, always had always would.
An hour after the assassination with the DropShip an hour away from Augustine and getting further away the fact Jonas was missing had been discovered. Five hours later blood traces and CCTV footage proved that Jonas was in fact dead. Knowing that it was the Bounty Hunter that Assassinated their brother did little to appease Jonas’ sisters, Ana and Alys, both wanted answers specifically who had hired the assassin. Tracking the Bounty Hunter’s DropShip they discovered a Marik-Stewart Commonwealth JumpShip waiting for them bound for Marik, they had gotten lucky and the Commonwealth had gotten sloppy. Before the JumpShip had even left the system Ana Rousset-Marik as Duchess of Augustine and the Rousset-Marik Alliance was speaking to her nation.
“Citizens of the Alliance, I bring you grave news. My brother, the head of our military, Jonas Rousset-Marik was assassinated this morning by - we believe - the infamous Bounty Hunter. From reviewing the evidence and other factors we have come to the conclusion that this individual was hired by the so-called Captain-General or the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Corrine Marik. Frightened to face my brother and our forces on the honourable field of Battle the Mariks have resorted to hiring the scum of the universe to do their dirty work something I cannot stand for. Because of their actions I see no other course than War. The Rousset-Marik Alliance is at War with the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. No unauthorised travel into the Commonwealth will be tolerated. All Commonwealth traffic will be stopped and seized by our WarShip forces. Our nation was formed to defend our people not make war on former member states of the Free Worlds League State, however, this is the only course we have been left with. I have only one last thing to say†she said wiping a tear from her eye “it goes to one specific individual, the Bounty Hunter, whoever you are, wherever you are, I will hunt you down and kill you if it is the last thing I do.†She said cutting off the link.
That afternoon the Fifth Rousset-Marik Militia dropped onto Miaplacidus in the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and within eight hours the planet was in the Rousset-Marik Alliance’s hands and the defending Twentieth Marik Militia, former sister unit of the Fifth, was destroyed its troops dead, captured or missing. The War had begun.
HPG Communication Room
Calderon Royal Palace, Samantha
Taurus, Taurian Concordat
12th January 3072
Along with the rest of Samantha the Calderon Palace and the adjoining HPG station had been rebuilt following the suicide bomb set off by Protector Grover Sharplen trying to destroy his enemies. Today under a special envoy from the Star League the station was operational once more, at least temporality. Protector (Pro-tem) Brenda Calderon stepped in front of the lectern to speak to the Taurian people. “My fellow citizens, today I bring you news of a step forward in our nations rehabilitation and progress into the future. Firstly Marshal Cham Kithrong, leader of the Calderon Protectorate, has agreed to travel to Taurus in an effort to bring our nation back under a single banner, the banner of the Taurian Concordat. With the Marshal will travel Erik Martens-Calderon, the adopted son of Protector Jeffery Calderon, the future of Erik and the Concordat will be decided at these talks and I am sure you will all join me in praying that our nation can reunite once more.†She paused glanced down for a moment then straight back at the camera “ Secondly as of today I am announcing the Taurian Concordat’s withdrawal from the Trinary Alliance with the Capellan Confederation and the Magistracy of Canopus. This alliance has not served the best interests of the Taurian people and instead furthered the personal goals of Grover Sharplen and Capellan Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao. All Capellan and Magistracy personal have a period of two weeks to leave our nation and all Taurian units in the Magistracy and the Confederation realms are en route back to the Concordat as I speak. The Taurian Concordat stands alone once more as a member of the Star League Defence Force and as an independent member of the Periphery. Only if we protect our sovereignty then nothing can stop us, I would also like to open up talks with the Federated Suns and the Star League Defence Force for the cessation of hostilities in the Pleiades Cluster, too many warriors have been lost to Grover’s Folly.†She said after a moments silence the link was closed. Days after the speech Capellan Forces were attempting to take Capellan improvements from Taurian soil but under numerically superior Taurian guns almost all failed in their attempt while Capellan and Magistracy troops attempted to stop Taurian units in Capellan space only to face Federated Suns and Mercenary raiding parties that got their attention away from the Taurians while SLDF units moved to escort them clear of the combat zones, fortunately for the SLDF the Capellans were under orders from the Chancellor not to fire on them.
Magistracy of Canopus
Capellan Confederation
28th January 3072
In retaliation to the Taurian Concordat’s breaking from the Trinary Alliance Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao, of the Capellan Confederation, and Magestix Naomi Centrella-Liao, of the Magistracy of Canopus, announce the forwarding of their nation’s links by merging both the Confederation and the Magistracy under one government. Led from Sian, the Confederation Capital, the newly expanded territories of the Capellan Confederation will be split into three Commonalities led by a regional director. Canopus, the capital of the Magistracy, will be the capital world of one of these Commonalities and be a co-capital to Sian with an exact copy of the Forbidden City built outside Crimson, the capital city of Canopus. The Independent nation of the Magistracy of Canopus effectively ends with this announcement, the Star League council announce that the Magistracy vote has been lost on the Star League and will now be under the Capellan flag’s vote ensuring the Chancellor still only wields one vote.
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Alpha Galaxy Command
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
Tamar, Administrative Capital
3rd February 3072
After being bondswomen to Khan Vlad Ward, leader of Clan Wolf, for five years Katrina Wolf, formerly known as Katherine Steiner-Davion, becomes a MechWarrior with the Crusader faction of Clan Wolf. Under new Wolf Guidelines, introduced due to the Wolf (in-Exile) Clans split from the true Clan Wolf, Inner Sphere Freeborn will never get higher than MechWarrior so her fate seems set. However secretly Katrina is Vlad’s closest advisor on the Inner Sphere and his lover. For a Mech she is assigned a Griffin IIC with Katrina and Clan Wolf playing on the Lyran tradition of a pair of Griffins being assigned to defend the Archon’s throne room. Within the Lyran Alliance there is renewed calls for a rescue mission to drive into the Clan Wolf Occupation Zone and rescue the former Archon however opponents of this point out that Katherine went willingly and has accepted life as a warrior of Clan Wolf. They also point out that Khan Phelan Kell was able to drive a stake into Clan Wolf once by gaining the Wolves trust, perhaps Katrina can do the same.
Temple Ford
Roma, Augustine
Rousset-Marik Alliance
12th February 3072
On her way to Sunday services in the centre of Temple Ford Captain-General of the Rousset-Marik Alliance Ana Marik is killed when a car-bomb detonates as her convoy moves through the city. Riding alongside her is her younger sister, and only surviving relative, Alys Rousset-Marik who is slightly injured by the blast. Intelligence Agencies fail to find the bomber responsible making for a double blow to the Rousset-Marik Alliance following the death of Duke Jonas Rousset-Marik only a month earlier.
As Alys is sworn into leadership of the Alliance she finds that things are going from bad to worse for her nation as two Marik-Stewart Commonwealth WarShips engage and destroy the Rousset-Marik WarShip the Jiri Rousset, an Impavido-class Destroyer named for her father, is ambushed and destroyed by two Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Eagle-class Frigates in the Iran system further hurting the Rousset-Marik Alliance‘s navy halving its strength in one fight.
Calderon Royal Residence
Taurus, Hyades Cluster
Taurian Concordat
18th February 3072
Following an invitation by Protector (Pro-tem) Brenda Calderon, Marshal (Baron) Cham Kithrong and Erik Martens, the illegitimate son of Jeffery Calderon who Grover Sharplen blocked ever becoming Protector by claiming power for himself, arrives on Taurus. For Cham and his bodyguard unit, all former members of the Taurian Military, the return to Taurus is very emotional especially seeing the devastation that has befallen the world with the nuclear bomb detonation below the city and the damage done by the Fighting Urakhai Mercenary Regiments.
Following a week of negotiations and with Erik Martens DNA results coming back confirming his Calderon blood both sides agree that one Taurian nation is better than two. For now Marshal Cham Kithrong will take the post of military leader of the Concordat then once Brenda Calderon steps down he will become Marshal-Protector until Erik Martens-Calderon is ready to take the throne. Following a joint statement by Brenda Calderon and Cham Kithrong the reunification process begins.
Training Ranges
Luthien, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
1st March 3072
Leading his command lance Coordinator Hohiro Kurita sat at the helm of his Dire Wolf, Clan Assault Mech, one hundred tons of killing machine below him. Like First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion he had received his Dire Wolf from Jamie Wolf in 3051 during their training on Outreach. The OmniMech had served him well in the last twenty years and although now it was beginning to show its age in places it was still one of the premier machines in the whole Inner Sphere and Clans, and although Hohiro did not boast about his skill, with him at the controls it was an even more deadly machine. Arrayed beside him were three more Assault OmniMechs two Draconis Combine built and designed Sunders and one Clan designed Warhawk all deadly designs all piloted by warriors of the elite First Genyosha Regiment, Hohiro’s personal command and bodyguard.
Moving in a marching line the four assault Mechs faced eight computer controlled combat turrets all armed with powered down weapons arrays. “Hold your fire until we are at optimum range†Hohiro said into the communication range as the range between the Genyosha Mechs and the targets. As the range counted down all the Mechs reached range at the same time and all four opened fire in unison. “Fire at will†he ordered all four Mechs fired at the eight targets together cutting down half in the opening volley. Moments after the volley landed six OmniMechs of unknown allegiance stepped out from behind the targets all were firing at Hohiro‘s Lance. “Genyosha, continue to fire†Hohiro said his mind racing he recognised five of the OmniMech designs but not their configurations while the sixth design was a totally unknown design. Targeting the nearest Mech, a fast charging Owens, Hohiro triggered his Dire Wolf’s arm mounted Gauss Rifle. The supersonic ferro-nickel slug flew from the rifle barrel across the distance between the Mechs and slammed into the Owens’ left leg, the impact ripped the limb clear off the OmniMech and threw the Mech forwards ploughing headfirst into the ground killing the pilot and taking the Mech out of combat.
Off to Hohiro’s left the unknown OmniMech design opened fire with a pair of Heavy Particle Projection Cannons, a Snub-Nosed PPC and a pair of Extended-Range Medium Lasers, all new advanced weapons, whoever these people were they were well financed. The weapons combined tore massive ruts in the left side of the Dire Wolf’s torso breaching the extra-light fusion engine’s shielding. Hohiro twisted the OmniMech’s torso and opened fire with his Gauss Rifle, paired Heavy Large Lasers and a trio of Streak Short Range Missile launchers briefly overheating the Dire Wolf‘s heat cooling system. The unknown OmniMech was hit all over the torso, arms and legs however the OmniMech absorbed the fire without pause continuing to move forward. “Genyosha Actual to Genyosha command…†Hohiro said into the communication system attempting to contact the Genyosha regiments command base however the communication system never got through to the base, they were being jammed. To his right a seventy ton Avatar on the enemies side opened fire with paired Heavy PPCs, pulse lasers and Extended-Range lasers, all the hits slammed into Hohiro’s Dire Wolf again tearing into the side torso. Armour exploded off the Clan Assault Mech and again the fusion engine shielding took a hit, the cockpit of Hohiro’s Mech overheated again as the Mech’s heat cooling systems were flooded by excess heat and radiation breaking through the damaged shielding.
Moving the Dire Wolf backwards Hohiro tried to pullback from the incoming enemy Mechs the enemy Avatar was savaged by the Genyosha Avatar and the Guerrilla was destroyed by a salvo of Medium Range Missiles from one of Hohiro’s Sunder allies, the second allied Sunder was destroyed by an enemy Black Watch OmniMech its gyroscope housing caved in by heavy weapons fire, unable to stand the Sunder was out of this fight and crashed to the ground, not happy with just taking out the Mech the Black Watch pilot walked over to the Sunder lifted a foot and crushed the cockpit killing the Genyosha warrior. Twisting the Dire Wolf’s torso towards the Black Watch Hohiro caught only a glimpse of the shot that killed him. A gauss rifle slug from the Black Watch slammed into the lower half of the cockpit travelling upwards through the cockpit crushing his body as it decapitated the OmniMech.
The Coordinator of the Draconis Combine died at that moment seeing their leader killed broke the morale of the Genyosha and within three minutes of battle the rest of the lance had been killed. The mysterious Mechs destroyed the remains of all the Genyosha OmniMechs and the remains of their own making them nothing but scrap before disappearing into the deep undergrowth of Luthien as more Genyosha Mech arrived to search the area. By the end of that very hour the Luthien system had been locked down by the DCMS as the surviving Mechs were searched for - no trace of the Mechs were detected by the DCMS or found. Although the line of succession was to move from Hohiro to his six year old son Vincent because of the child’s young age Minoru Kurita, Hohiro’s younger brother and a Draconis Combine Duke, stepped into the position on a temporary basis Minoru would take the position until Vincent came of age. Because it is a temporary appointment Minoru is afforded the title Warlord instead of Coordinator.
The Draconis Combine leadership caste and the lower castes were unsure of this plan although Minoru was a combat veteran he was not as seasoned as Hohiro had been nor was he ever trained to be leader of the Draconis Combine these facts alone drove many into the reborn Black Dragon Society who immediately used the death of another of the Kurita line as a sign the Kuritas really were coming to the end of their usefulness as leaders of the Combine.
Niops VII
Niops Association, Periphery
12th March 3072
The entire Human Sphere awakens to surprising news as they discover the Niops Association, a tiny Periphery State of three worlds on the Free Worlds League border has been conquered by the nearby aggressive Marian Hegemony. In the past the Niops Association’s stockpiles of Star League-era technology, peaceful existence and an entire Aerospace Regiment’s worth of fighters and DropShips had kept the system free however the Marian Hegemony had broken through the defences with several assault DropShips and the newly launched MHS Caesar, a Dart-class Light Cruiser. The vessel found just over a year before deep within Marian borders had been repaired using technology found or stolen from nearby states and the Marians had decided to unveil it under the very public arena of conquest.
Using the vessel’s capital grade weapons to gun down the Niops Association DropShips the Marians had secured air superiority over all three worlds of the Association in less than four hours then led by the Caesar Julius O’Reilly himself Legio I, II and the Cohors Morituri had landed on the capital world of Niops VII. In a brief bloody battle with the Niops Association Militia and the Black Heart Roses, a Mercenary Battalion hired for extra security, were brushed aside by the three Marian units despite their upgrades in Star League technology received from the Association’s warehouses. These upgrades allowed the Niops defenders and their mercenary back-up to destroy the Legio II with massed firepower however Caesar Julius O’Reilly called on the MHS Caesar to fire several volleys into the capital and the surrounding area. One of these Naval Autocannon grade attacks tore through the government building killing Director Rayanne Nellis, the leader of the Association, in his final act as leader of the Association’s defences Brigadier L. Jamieson Fallon announced the Niops Association’s surrender to the Marian Hegemony.
Following the securing of the world Caesar Julius O’Reilly eliminated the remaining governmental leaders on Niops VII including Brigadier Fallon and placed the Cohors Morituri in charge of the defences of the world then moved to the two other worlds in the system securing them after brief conflicts on both. Returning to Niops VII the Caesar found that the Niops Association’s famed scientific community had been protected from the ground battle and the orbital bombardment by several bunkers and were safe and well. Following some persuasion, including the public execution of three astronomers by Marian troops, the scientists agreed to serve the Caesar.
Across the Inner Sphere Intelligence branches all began investigations on how the Marian Hegemony was able to build/or salvage a Dart-class Light Cruiser and be able to use it in the conquest of the Niops Association without anyone else realising they had that capability. As for Caesar O’Reilly he had the job of reorganising his forces after taking so much high-grade salvage from the Niops Association and following the well disciplined display by the Cohors Morituri, a unit normally filled with the undesirables of the Marian Hegemony’s army and used as cannon fodder by Marian commanders, the Caesar unwilling to use them this way anymore has to find another place for this traditionally trouble spot unit.
Ft. Damien Hasek
Kittery, Capellan March
Federated Suns
18th March 3072
Following a years’ service with the Kittery Training Battalion with duties ranging from training, garrison and raiding missions against the Capellan Confederation and the Taurian Concordat Damien Redburn youngest son of Andrew Redburn graduates from his Training Battalion class and is promoted to Leftenant (junior grade). Instead of being transferred to the regular army for further training and orientation Damien is transferred to the Albion Military Academy on New Avalon to begin Officer Candidate School and further advanced training programs.
Near Orbit
Oceana, Independent World
Free Worlds League Remnant
22nd March 3072
In near orbit around the largely water world of Oceana the WarShip Gawain, an Eagle-class Frigate, a vessel in the league with the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth is ambushed by the Kirsten Marik, an Eagle-class Frigate, a vessel in the hands of the Rousset-Marik Alliance. The Rousset-Marik Alliance vessel not only is able to get in the first strike against the Gawain, causing heavy damage, but this also opens up enough room for The Krushers Regiment under the command of Captain-General Duchess Alys Rousset-Marik to land on the planet while the space battle continues. In the ensuing battle the Kirsten Marik is able to destroy the Gawain and claim a Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Assault DropShip intact securing space superiority for the Rousset-Marik Alliance.
On the ground The Krushers meet the Fifth Free Worlds Guards Regiment in a massive battle in the centre of the capital city, a massive floating complex built on and around the largest Island on the planet. During a climactic six hour long battle the Fifth Guards and half of The Krushers are destroyed. During the fighting the same company of SPT-NX Spartan BattleMechs seen during First Lord Peter Steiner-Davion’s fighting on the Clan border are seen fighting both sides during their battles before once again disappearing onto a DropShip and off the planet without a trace.
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My my my what interesting changes for the free worlds former league
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My my my what interesting changes for the free worlds former league
It won't get much better for them... for a while
Clan Wolf Command
Tamar City
Tamar, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
4th April 3072
After using a relatively quiet time to hold back the Hell’s Horses Invasion of their Occupation Zone Clan Wolf has rebuilt and reorganised and led by Khan Vlad Ward is ready to move once again on their enemies. Sitting in his office Vlad looked at a holographic representation of the Inner Sphere “soon very soon it will be all mine.†He murmured
“With a little help from some friends†she said from his side Vlad looked down into the face of the woman who rested on his lap Katrina Wolf, formerly Archon Katherine Steiner-Davion of the Lyran Alliance, she’d proved herself a warrior in Clan Wolf and her mind on tactics and long term strategy worked for Vlad so she’d also become his closest advisor. In recent months she’d also become his companion in the bed chamber, something no-one else was aware of.
“Aff, the warriors of Delta and Gamma Galaxy.†He said smiling looking at her, she made no reaction to his comment, she’d been the one who had given him most of these insights and targets - especially the six former Lyran Alliance worlds that would be Gamma Galaxy’s targets. “How many worlds do you believe we will conquer? Truthfully†he said, one thing he’d found out quickly about her was Katrina told a lot of half-truths.
“We should be able to secure both Karbala and Meacham from the Rasalhague Dominion and the Jade Falcons without problem. Marthe may send forces against us closer to Tamar to dissuade us of attack but they will be of insignificant threat to cause Alpha and Beta Galaxies problems, and if she does she opens herself up to assaults from Phelan’s troops and our own counter attacks. The Rasalhague Dominion may pose a heavier threat, their troops are like ours well upgraded and bored, this could cause a problem. However with Beta standing between them and Tamar we should have little trouble from them, also the Ghost Bears seem content to claim former Rasalhague Republic worlds, worlds we can afford to loose.†She said analysing the two opposing Clans in this operation Vlad almost was tempted to rebuke her for her saying Clan Wolf could abandon anything but remained quiet, there was something she had not mentioned.
“What of the Lyran defenders?â€
“The worlds we have targeted are generally lightly defended - except for one†she said reaching out to the last world on the list. “Arcturus will be a problem, it was the capital of the Commonwealth when it was first created†he said mentally recalling information on the world’s history “and is currently home to three Lyran units, the Second Royal Guards, the First and Second Skye Jaegers and it is home to two Lyran WarShips the Flygia and the Fredrick Steiner. They could cause a significant threat to us, especially the Flygia she is a Lyran designed Battle-cruiser, a formidable opponent.â€
“With the Nicholas Kerensky attached to the force the Lyran vessels will be of little consequence.†Vlad said smiling as he mentioned the Texas-class Battleship, one of Clan Wolf’s most formidable vessels, the Clan flagship (since the fall of the Dire Wolf) and the carrier of the Clans‘ founder‘s name. “And the Stavag Star League Defence Force?†He cursed probing her thoughts he knew as much as her on deployments but she new units better than him.
“Only the First Royal BattleMech Brigade stands in our way it is also on Arcturus officially training with the Lyran units stationed there. The First is commanded by Archer Christifori, he is a Lyran born officer who fought the Smoke Jaguars in the Inner Sphere during Bulldog and on Huntress supporting Serpent. He battled with my brother on Strana Mechty and gained the Star League Medal of Honour for his troubles. Some believe that he will become the next Commanding-General when Morgan Hasek-Davion steps down to retire.â€
“Christifori will be a problem.†Vlad said without another thought “cut orders for Iota Galaxy to join Gamma Galaxy, they will secure worlds behind Gamma and only engage in front-line combat if they are so attacked.†He said to her, secretly he’d been allowing her to cut order in his name for a month or more, her trusted her to do it right.
“Of course my Khan. There is the threat more SLDF troops will arrive from further along the border or from their Protectorate worlds near Terra.â€
“Then we will kill them like the freebirth dogs they are, nothing will stop our assaults.†Vlad said smiling at the idea of more worlds falling to his Wolves and more Inner Sphere troops falling to their guns.
The next day troops of Clan Wolf’s Gamma Galaxy dropped on Karbala in the Rasalhague Dominion and Meacham in the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone. Surprising the Wolves on Karbala they discover two Rasalhague units are present not the one they’d expected, Gamma Galaxy find both the 283rd Battle Cluster of Rho Galaxy and the First Rasalhague Armour Cluster of the Rasalhague Galaxy both on planet. Instead of offering the Wolves a Batchall the Rasalhague commanders informed the Wolves of Gamma Galaxy they would defend the world with everything they had.
A long battle between the on planet Rasalhague defenders and the Seventh and Eighth Battle Clusters of Gamma Galaxy ensues with the Wolves only just coming out on top with two gutted Clusters for their trouble. Although they had been supported by the WarShip Trailblazer, the Vincent Mk. 42-class Corvette, the vessel remains out of the Trial instead ensuring no Rasalhague reinforcements attempted to land on planet during operations. By the end of April nothing remains of either Rasalhague Dominion Cluster the Wolves are left in possession of the world folding the Seventh Battle Cluster into the Eighth to bring it back up to strength.
On Meacham the Wolves had expected a heavier fight the Bronze Keshik, 271st and 272nd Assault Clusters all land on the planet where they find the Second Hussars and Second Velites both of Gamma Galaxy of Clan Jade Falcon. After a lengthy Batchall roughly a cluster culled from both sides fight a battle on the plains of Meacham for possession of the worlds in traditional Clan combat. Although the Jade Falcons are almost victorious the Wolf Galaxy Commander Edwina Carns called in another fresh Supernova Trinary from her Bronze Keshik. The presence of another full unit of hard hitting Wolf troops is able to overwhelm the Jade Falcons before any further troops can be called into the battle by the Falcons ending the battle quickly. As per Clan rules of warfare the Jade Falcons are allowed safcon from the world once the Trial is over.
Blue Diamond, Fatima, Morningside, Gangshoren
Lyran Alliance, Arc-Royal Theatre
8th April 3072
With both Meacham and Karbala secured by the Crusader Wolves Gamma Galaxy the units of Delta Galaxy forge ahead supported by Iota Galaxy broke into the Lyran Alliance hitting four worlds of the Arc-Royal Theatre simultaneously. The First Wolf Lancers of Delta Galaxy struck Blue Diamond just over the border overwhelming two Battalions of the Fourth Lyran Regulars on planet securing the world in less than sixteen hours of combat. Because the Wolves were able to overrun the Lyran Defenders Landing Zones capturing or destroying their DropShips no Lyran troops made it off planet and all were either killed or taken as bondsmen.
On the nearby world of Morningside the Third Wolf Lancers Cluster struck the third Battalion of the Fourth Lyran Regulars and a battalion of supporting militia troops. With only militia troops supporting them the remaining Battalion of the Fourth is overwhelmed in less than seven hours of heavy combat. Like the combat on Blue Diamond none of the Lyran troops were able to retreat from combat and the Fourth Lyran Regulars ceased to exist on the planet.
While the First and Third Clusters of Delta Galaxy hit Morningside and Blue Diamond the Second Wolf Lancers Cluster struck at Fatima finding the Grave Diggers Mercenary Battalion defending the world. The mercenaries decimated twice before plan to make the Wolves pay for every inch of the world and though it is fighting retreat they make the Wolves pay for every kilometre of the planet they win, fighting a constant retreat and counter-strike campaign. They soon lift off planet after loosing half of their combat strength and the majority of the world, the Wolves allow them to leave, passing on more word of triumphant Clan Wolf forces.
With the Fourth Wolf Lancer Cluster held in reserve with the Wolfkin Keshik the Fifth Cluster was the only one left to act and it dropped on Ganshoren the closest Lyran World to Terra to be targeted in this strike. On the planet they found the First Alarion Jaegers Regiment. Although the combined-arms regiment had an entire wing of aerospace fighters supporting it the Wolves overwhelmed the Lyrans with superior firepower and tactics. After sixteen hours of combat the Wolves agree to allow the Lyrans to leave the planet, less than a company of combat troops are able to retreat with the DropShips with four aerospace fighters in support ending the Lyran presence on the planet. When the survivors reach Arc-Royal the LAAF High Command choose to demobilize the unit permanently.
Apostica
Lyran Alliance, Arc-Royal Theatre
9th April 3072
A day after the invasions by elements of Delta Galaxy the Twentieth Wolf Regulars Cluster of Iota Galaxy forge ahead and land on Apostica finding the Delilah’s Gauntlet Mercenary Company and a Battalion of conventional combined-arms militia troops. Although the Wolves are second-line troops compared to the Delta Galaxy troops they are still far superior to the mercenaries and the militia troops, soon the battle is over and all Inner Sphere troops are dead at the hands of the brutal Wolf troops who target cockpits of Mechs and kill even surrendering vehicles and troopers.
Soon after the Wolves think they have secured the world a Clan Jade Falcon Trinary comes looking initiating a Trial of Possession for a factory worth of Mech Actuators. In a brief battle the Wolves are caught completely off balance by the appearance of two Wasp BattleMechs, dubbed ‘IIC’ by Inner Sphere Intelligence officers, within the Jade Falcon force. Almost no Clan had upgraded the Wasp, they had plenty of light Mechs and had no need for the Wasp.
These Wasp BattleMechs were not only upgraded they were modified with wings, Wolf warriors and Inner Sphere intelligence believed they were fully powered flight capable BattleMechs, like the Land-Air-Mechs of the First Star League, to start with as the Wasps roared into the air on Jump Jets and flew far beyond standard Jump Distances completely outflanking initial Wolf defences. It turns out that these ‘Partial Wings’ extend a Mech’s Jump Distance in proportion to the power of their Jump Jets and their size, the Wasps were capable of Jumps almost sixty metres more than standard designs proving the concept of the design.
As the fight wore on the Wolves were able to down one of the light Mechs and claim it despite the Jade Falcons winning the Trial. Even though Clan Wolf was able to capture a partially intact Wasp it is unknown if their science caste will be able to perfect the new technology without help.
The Jade Falcons retreated with their prize content that the Wasp IIC and the Partial Wing concept was a proven one in battle.
Nadir Jump Point, Arcturus
Lyran Alliance, Arc-Royal Theatre
11th April 3072
Two days following their initial attacks led by the WarShip Nicholas Kerensky, a Texas-class Battleship and Clan Wolf flagship, Clan Wolf’s Fifth Wolf Lancer Cluster and the Wolfkin Keshik Commanded by Galaxy Commander Katya Kerensky enters the Arcturus system. Ahead of them the WarShips Fredrick Steiner, a Fox-class Corvette, and the mighty Flygia, a Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser. Neither Steiner vessel offers the Wolves any Batchall or safcon for their ground forces and both vessels charge into attack hitting the mighty Battleship with capital missiles, Naval-class Gauss Rifles and Autocannons. The commander of the Nicholas Kerensky did not wait a second longer than was necessary. With fighters and DropShips engaging all around the Texas-class vessel turned to face its broadside onto the vessels. While the two Inner Sphere vessels engaged the vessel damaging its heavy armour but causing no real telling damage.
Once in position the Nicholas Kerensky’s gunners were given green lights and the broadside arc of twelve class-55 Naval Lasers fired at once. One of the heaviest barrages of Naval Lasers known to man was directed on the two hundred-and-forty thousand ton Fox-class Corvette, the Fredrick Steiner. The front and sides armour of the Fox was scarred and torn but amazingly the vessel remained intact with only two reported compartment breaches, five fatalities and one destroyed naval autocannon onboard they had gotten lucky in so many ways. The Nicholas Kerensky’s broadside missile gunners also targeted the Fox with a pair of heavy Whale Shark Missiles however again the Fox survived this time with minor thrusters damage, for such a small vessel it had impressive armour and was demanding respect from the massive Wolf Battleship.
Moving attempting to flank the Texas, and in a move that should have been mirrored by the larger Flygia the Fredrick Steiner attempted to cross the fore of the Texas and fire its broadside into the weaker armour at the front of the Nicholas Kerensky. Unfortunately the near-legendary Mjolinir-jinx, as Lyran Naval Officers called it, had struck the Flygia’s main drives had ceased to operate. The Battle-cruiser could fire but not manoeuvre.
With the Flygia not moving in the Nicholas Kerensky’s forward gunners opened up on the Fox. Eight Heavy Naval Particle Projection Cannons, four per forward flank, spoke nearly as one all converging on the already damaged fore and broadside flanks of the Fredrick Steiner. This sort of firepower normally reserved for WarShips of similar mass to the Nicholas Kerensky quickly destroyed the armour of the vessel and tore into the insides of the Fox before tearing straight out the other side opening a gaping hole in the centre of the craft ending all hopes of the Fredrick Steiner continuing in this fight.
Now with one opponent gone only the Flygia remained to face the Nicholas Kerensky, however with its main engines obviously not functioning and the Lyran Battle-cruiser rapidly leaving the battle the Nicholas Kerensky’s commander allowed the vessel to continue on its course unharmed sending ground forces around the Battle-cruiser’s course.
Instead of landing her troops on the planet instantly and having them destroyed in an onslaught by the Inner Sphere troops arrayed against them Galaxy Commander Katya Kerensky contacted the on planet commanders Lyran commander General-of-Armies Keane Sortek, who had arrived two days before, and Star League General Archer Christifori who had been on planet since the beginning with his Brigade. “Gentlemen, I would like to offer you safe passage from this world†she said as the faces of the two Inner Sphere commanders appeared.
“Commander, I think not, this is a Lyran world and will remain one as long as I breath air into my lungs.†Keane Sortek said defiantly.
“The Star League Defence Force will fully support it’s Lyran allies in their decision and resist this unprovoked aggression from Clan forces.†Archer added in.
“Fine Gentlemen, then we fight. Will you agree to a batchall?â€
“Aye, my opening bid is everything we have, my battlefield is Arcturus. This is also my last bid†Keane said.
“I bid the WarShip Nicholas Kerensky, the Fourth Wolf Lancer Cluster and the Wolfkin Keshik as my first bid.†She said instantly smiling as she noticed the surprise on the Inner Sphere General’s faces on cluster against around eight combined arms Regiments would be destroyed even with the Keshik in support.
“Galaxy Commander, I think that you have taken insufficient forces to win this battle, the lives of the crew of the WarShip Fredrick Steiner are enough leave now and there will be nothing held against you Clan.†Keane said more confidently.
“Neg, you see, if you are not willing to enter a bid that honours the forces arrayed against you I will order the gunners of the Nicholas Kerensky to open fire on your troops and your bases, not my first choice but honourless dogs deserve nothing less.â€
“And risk another Bulldog?†Archer warned Clan Smoke Jaguar had annihilated a city on the world of Turtle Bay in the Draconis Combine and been annihilated themselves by the reborn SLDF during Bulldog, Archer’s warning was not without weight.
“I do not believe that your Inner Sphere governments are ready for anything on the scale of your so-called Bulldog. If you will not fight honourably then neither will we, you will have been the ones who have escaladed this.†Katya warned “gunnery positions prepare for a demonstration, something small.†Katya said over her shoulder the two men on the ground looked shocked she would make such a move “now gentlemen a revised bid, please†she said smiling again.
“Give us one hour†Keane said and the image winked out. An hour later the Lyrans and SLDF troops came back with a revised bid of one reinforced combined-arms regiment and a wing of aerospace fighters. Katya matched them with the Fourth, the Wolfkin and the Nicholas Kerensky’s fighters the troops would meet two days later on the plains of Arcturus and end this conflict.
On the twelfth the troops of the defending Lyran/Star League met the invading Clan Wolf troops. The fight was to the end and lasted almost fourteen hours with heavy casualties on both sides but ultimately the Wolves were defeated with the Wolves fully retreating following death of Galaxy Commander Katya Kerensky and the retreat ordered by Star Colonel Cameron Vickers, the second in command of the Wolf forces. The Wolf invasion was over but they had made their point with five Lyran and two Clan worlds added to their Occupation Zone, the message was clear the Wolves were once more on the prowl.
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Clan Rose House
Northwind, Star League Protectorate
13th April 3072
The entire world of Northwind was a buzz as Major (Inactive) Rianna Rose walks down the isle of her wedding to Dan Jackson, another member of her unit the Black Thorns. Rianna injured fighting Clan Ghost Bear so badly she could not move her limbs she'd recieved Myomer implants following long discussions with Dan Jackson and she had fallen in love with him. Lt. Colonel Jeremiah Rose gives away his sister and all the other Highlander Colonels are present. Across Northwind the Highlander Regiments stand to attention to mark the event in respect for Clan Rose, the wedded couple and for the Black Thorns.
Clan Occupation Zones
Clan Wolf/Rasalhague Dominion
18th April 3072
Although not directly in-line with the SLDF and Lyran Alliance defences the Rasalhague Dominion launch assaults into Clan Wolf territory claiming three worlds Kandis, Memmingen and Thannhausen all near Tamar forcing the Wolves to reinforce their defences.
Alpha and Beta Galaxies move to reinforce the Wolf lines and launch a counter attack two days later retaking Thannhausen and Memmingen. The Ward’s Legacy, Clan Wolf’s McKenna-class Battleship captured from Clan Ice Hellion, also destroys the Bear’s Den, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser, and cripples the Great Bear, a Leviathan 2-class Battleship, in the Memmingen system the vessel is barely able to retreat from battle before the Wolves attempt a boarding action. The Bears have gained another world and the Wolves have taken their toll on the Bears.
Near Orbit
Augustine, Rousset-Marik Alliance
22nd April 3072
In a surprise move the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth push into Rousset-Marik Alliance overwhelming defences rapidly. Within hours they are attempting a landing on Augustine however are driven back as four nuclear mines detonate in low orbit of the world wiping out a Marik-Stewart WarShip, the Percival, an Eagle-class Frigate, and the Gryphons BattleMech Regiment.
The mines had been deployed in secret months before under the Orders of Duchess Alys Rousset-Marik and were a total surprise for the Marik-Stewart troops. Not wanting to push anything further the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth call a cease fire between the two nations immediately knowing that the continued infighting was doing nothing for the combined hopes of the Free Worlds League.
Eridani Light Horse Base
Star League Defence Force Territory
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
4th May 3072
After more than six months of travel the Seventy-first Eridani Light Horse Regiment of the Star League Defence Force arrives on Huntress in the Clan Homeworlds. Commander of the Seventy-first Colonel Sandra Barclay immediately begins operations to secure the Star League’s small portion of Huntress and hunt down those responsible for the Death of Colonel Paul Calvin.
At the same time the Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment begins their clean-up of their operations preparing for the long trek back to the Inner Sphere. During this period they are covertly contacted by Star Captain Rufus Myers, Third Scorpion Seekers Cluster, Chi Galaxy, Rufus requests that his Trinary be allowed to accompany them back to the Inner Sphere. After a brief discussion with the Star League Ambassador on Strana Mechty, Lt. Colonel Edward J. Lynnis, agrees to the plan and the Scorpion warriors are allowed to travel covertly with the Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment.
Absolute Truth, In System
Turtle Bay, Star Adder Occupation Zone
13th May 3072
The Absolute Truth was burning meaningfully towards the Nadir Point above the Turtle Bay sun. For the last week Star Admiral Tobias McKenna, the vessel’s commander, had overseen the complete rearmament of his Nightlord-class Battleship. The vessel was now fully stocked and crewed by the best warriors the Star Adders could provide, it was ready for anything, including the planned renewed invasion of the Draconis Combine.
A day’s travel ahead of them there was a flash and another vessel appeared on the scanners “can you identify it?†Tobias asked looking at the Holo-tank it was a long and very heavy looking vessel, like nothing the Clans currently fielded.
“Sir, it identifies as a Yamato-class vessel, we have no records of this type of vessel, sensors indicate the vessel is at least one sixth larger than the Absolute Truth.†The sensor operator said, a new class of vessel developed obviously by the Draconis Combine without the Clans knowing anything about it, the Clan Watch would hear of this.
“Bring us to full Battle stations. Inform all DropShips, Fighters, ProtoMechs and Battle Armour crews to prepare for combat.†Tobias said, the Absolute Truth had once been a standard Nightlord but now it had different capabilities and surprises for its enemies. The fighter capacity had been doubled to forty aircraft, the BattleMech bays had been removed and replaced with a ProtoMech hold of seventy-five machines. The Absolute Truth now also carried half of its planned twenty small craft that would serve as boarding craft for its five hundred Elemental Battle Armour Marines. These were the Nightlord’s first modifications to become a Nightlord II-class vessel since the Star Adders had recently gained the blueprints from Clan Snow Raven, further changes were still required mainly in the weapons suite, some changes had been made it was time to test some of them. “Continue full scans, inform me when we are within six hours of the vessel.†Tobias said moving from the room heading directly for the communications room, he needed to contact the Khan via the vessel’s onboard HPG.
The two mammoth vessels continued towards each other for the next two days the Absolute Truth discovered the vessel was more than a match for them and that it was called the Musashi. Tobias McKenna still continued to use the class designation instead of trying to pronounce the Japanese name now they were finally entered visual range. Tobias was standing on the bridge of the Absolute Truth looking at the incoming vessel, it was gigantic even more massive than his own vessel, on the Holo-tank display he could see DropShips and fighters launching from the enemy vessel. “Launch all DropShips and Fighters, have them concentrate on the enemy fighters and DropShips. Gunnery positions prepare for firing.†He said, it was time counting the enemy small craft Tobias could see his fighters were more numerous but the enemy had two DropShips more than his this would be a tight battle on the small craft side. The Star Admiral smiled as he thought ‘then again naval battles are decided by the WarShip not the fighter’
“Sir, forward weapons coming into range†the gunnery control officer announced.
“All weapons fire at will†Tobias said the fore Naval Laser, Naval PPC and Naval Gauss Rifle positions fired immediately followed by more Naval Laser and Naval Gauss fire from the forward flanks of the Nightlord moments later. Tobias watched as the weapons all hit the fore areas of the enemy vessel, conventional weapons targeting fighters also fired by the Star Admiral cared little for them, the enemy WarShip was his target. “Helm bring our nose up and to port, Gunnery prepare starboard broadside weapons. Also have port weapons clean up some of their DropShip forces†He said the Absolute Truth responded almost immediately one million-two hundred thousand tons of WarShip moving turning brining the next line of weapons into line. The enemy WarShip was also firing Naval Lasers and Particle Cannons lashing out in far greater number than his Nightlord could ever hope to field. Tobias waited for the impact but nothing came, instead the enemy had taken out three of his four DropShips in one volley! “Trying to show us we are not significant a threat?†Tobias murmured to himself seeing the Absolute Truth was almost in position, just as the enemy Yamato fired again, this time the forward flank weapons. Naval Missiles, Naval Gauss Rifles and yet more Naval Lasers lashed out this time all targeted on the Absolute Truth. The entire length of the mighty Battleship was rocked by the assault as the starboard broadside armour was battered by the enemy volley. Tobias was knocked back into his command chair “Broadside Fire!†He called out, the weapons positions along the vessel’s length responded along with the fore and rear flanks the entire Broadside lit up a massive array of Naval weapons fired at once all targeted on the enemy WarShip’s fore and flank armour, the conventional weapons again targeting fighters. A few volleys of lasers and one Naval PPC totally missed but most hit savaging the already damaged forward sections. Even this mighty construction built by the Draconis Combine was not built for such an assault and Tobias could see the vessel had been badly hurt by the assault “helm bring the nose back down and into a steep starboard turn. Weapons forward fire as she bears broadsides finish off their DropShips†Tobias said as the distances continued to close between the vessels the Absolute Truth’s gunners shot down half of the Yamato’s DropShips freeing up some of their fighters to target the enemy Battleship. “Cargo bay have ProtoMechs and Elemental Marines prepare for an EVA Assault†he said, one of the benefits of commanding a vessel the size of a Nightlord was the increased options the vessel had.
“Standing by Star Admiralâ€
“Sir, enemy is turning, broadside arrays on Yamato coming online.†The sensor officer said as the Yamato’s guns come on-line Naval PPCs and Lasers lashed out while conventional arrays targeted the Star Adder fighters. The Absolute Truth was torn into luckily the vessel had turned enough for the damage to be spread over previously untouched armour, the Star Adder vessel had gotten lucky this time. As the Nightlord continued its turn Naval Autocannons on the Absolute Truth’s side opened fire tearing holes in the Yamato’s side, Naval lasers, Gauss Rifles and PPCs followed up causing more damage to the vessel’s broadside armour.
“Release ProtoMechs and Elementals†Tobias said before the Yamato returned fire again, from air-locks and cargo bays all over the Absolute Truth opened releasing five hundred Elementals and seventy-five ProtoMechs all equipped with Jump Packs allowing for Space Travel all bound for the Yamato. They would latch onto the hull and targeting air-locks, view ports and cargo bay doors would begin to burrow into the Yamato’s hull opening it to space. The Yamato opened fire with Naval Lasers and PPCs opening yet more holes in the Absolute Truth’s side but causing no major damage. The Capital Autocannons and Gauss Rifles of the Nightlord were causing more damage despite the Yamato‘s heavier armour.
“Sir, we are getting energy and radiation spikes from the Yamato.â€
“We couldn’t have hit a major reactor?†Tobias said as the Absolute Truth continued to fire and turn, then it dawned on him the Yamato may be trying to escape from battle by jumping clear, he‘d heard stories of Inner Sphere barbarians trying the famed Crazy Jane Manoeuvre. If the Absolute Truth was in close proximity then they would be destroyed too, it was a manoeuvre made famous by a former Star League Captain who hunted pirates using such a tactic getting inside their Jump Radius ensuring they could not escape. “Helm full acceleration, escape course from the Yamato before she jumps.†Tobias said, as the Nightlord turned the Yamato followed it’s turn firing Heavy Naval Autocannons into the rear of the Absolute Truth’s weaker armour, the Radiation levels had returned to normal, a ruse. “Sensor officer, if we survive this you will face me in a trial for this.†Tobias warned just before the Absolute Truth was hit by a dozen Capital Grade Killer Shark Anti-Ship Missiles from the Yamato’s forward launchers, creating several large holes in the Absolute Truth’s weaker rear armour. “Rear guns concentrate on the areas of the Yamato we hit with our main broadside guns. Have our ProtoMechs and Elementals hit the holes in their Broadsides.†Tobias ordered as the Absolute Truth’s crew tried to salvage the situation. The ProtoMechs and Elemental Marine troops began landing on the Yamato at the same time using magnets in the feet of their machines and suits to grapple on then use their weapons to tear holes in the Combine Vessel’s hull. Around the vessels aerospace fighters and surviving DropShips continued to strafe them trying to knock them off the Yamato’s hull. “Weapons officer co-ordinate with ProtoMechs and Elementals, I do not want our own guns taking down our people.â€
“Sir, we are approaching celestial body 72†the secondary sensor officer said, in battles this officer would normally remain out of the battle acting as support to the primary who controlled targeting and analysis sensor arrays, however they also had authority over secondary and long range sensors. Celestial Body 72 was a rogue asteroid of the Turtle Bay system outside any gravitational pull of any planet or the star, a null area, it also acted as an interdictor to the Jump Drive systems on most vessels so was to be avoided by any manoeuvring WarShip under normal circumstances.
“Understood, Helm full acceleration speed now.†Tobias said the engines began to respond to the additional thrust now calling for 2.5 Gravities of Acceleration Tobias sat down on his command seat to brace against the new force. He watched as the Yamato matched them for speed and smiled.
“Sir, course correction needed or we will enter celestial body 72’s gravity in twenty-three seconds.â€
“Understood, sensors, give me a count at fifteen seconds. Helm prepare for any course correction you deem necessary to avoid that contact… on my order.†There was a series of ayes from the crew around him “Have our Elementals and ProtoMechs to prepare to disembark from Yamato, Fighter Control to provide support and protection to them. Launch all small craft boarding craft for Search and Recovery Operations.†Tobias said moments passed as the ten small craft began launching from both sides of the Nightlord as it closed on the asteroid.
“Sir, what are we doing?†Star Commodore Jessica McFadden, his executive officer sitting at the weapons console asked. Tobias ignored her, she was a former Burrock warrior and would never have been his choice but she was a decent officer and an excellent gunner so he put up with her.
“Fifteen seconds, fourteen, thirteen, twelve, eleven, ten...†The sensor operator said they were now perilously close to the gravity well of the asteroid.
“Full turn!†Tobias said the Nightlord pulled straight upwards, the Yamato also took evasive action pulling to port and heading downwards ‘under’ the asteroid straight into the gravity well shutting down its Jump Engines. The two vessels continued to trade blows at extreme range for a few minutes more but sitting at his command chair Tobias could tell this battle was over neither vessel was really capable of continuing at this pace and another battle would end quickly.
The shuttles and fighters returned as did the only remaining DropShip every one of his auxiliary craft were heavily damaged half the fighters destroyed, twenty-six ProtoMechs returned two-thirds lost, Surprisingly four hundred-and-fifty of his Elementals had returned all with heavy damage but operational. Looking at the stats Tobias wondered that if he’d pressed the assault would the Elementals been able to defeat the Yamato’s crew and internal defenders and take the ship? Or detonate the weapons stores? Questions for another time, today the Absolute Truth had encountered a superior craft to any the Clans had encountered since returning to the Inner Sphere, the Inner Sphere were matching some of their greatest accomplishments and not all the Clans would have Nightlords and Leviathans to protect them.
“Star Commodore, take over recovery operations.â€
“Sir, are we not pressing the attack while they struggle to clear the gravity well?â€
“Negative, we got lucky today, that vessel has superior weaponry to our own and is less damaged. We will return to battle with them but not now. I must speak with the Khan. Take over recovery operations, Quiaff?†He asked challenging her to defy him.
“Aff, Star Admiral†she said moving from weapons to the command chair without another word. Tobias moved out of the command deck to speak with the Khan, from there he heard the news directly from his Khan the Draconis Combine had launched an all-out assault on the Star Adders assaults intent on pushing them from the Inner Sphere, in a move similar to the Inner Sphere’s assaults against the Smoke Jaguars. Although there was no indication that they were heading for the Clan Homeworlds as well the Star Adders were not going to take any chances and Khan Stanislov N’Buta had ordered a full retreat from the Inner Sphere before losses became unacceptable. So far two Clusters of Adders had been lost as had the Tuhantepac, one of the Star Adders Essex-class Destroyers.
Tobias was under orders to take the Absolute Truth back to Turtle Bay and evacuate the Star Adder Ground troops from the world rendezvousing with the rest of the Star Adders in the Periphery before they pulled back to the Kerensky Cluster. The Star Admiral was unhappy by the way the battle had gone and by this decision had been made but understood it and agreed to comply. As he walked back onto the bridge the Musashi was jumping clear of the system, the Draconis Combine had obviously contacted that Captain as well, the battle and campaign were over. The Absolute Truth’s crew was not happy with the way this had happened and there were several trials on-board the vessel of Trials of Grievance as anger spilled over but Tobias was looking at the next battle, the Star Adders needed to enact their dominance over the Kerensky Cluster, now there was no Inner Sphere for them. By the 20th May all Star Adder forces had retreated from the Inner Sphere.
In the Draconis Combine Warlord Minoru Kurita was hailed the saviour of the Combine’s Honour and the greatest Kurtia to sit on the thrown since Takashi Kurita his great-grandfather. The growing Black Dragon Movement, intent on toppling the Warlord, fell to pieces in the wake of this new surge of popular support for the Kurita family. News of the Star Adders ejection from the Inner Sphere spread quickly and all the Clans moved to a higher state of readiness, not ready to follow the same fate however there were no indications such a movement was planned against any of them.
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Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City), Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
20th June 3072
Sitting on his ancestral thrown in the heart of the Capellan Confederation’s capital, Zi-jin Cheng, the Forbidden City. Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao stared at the Tri-Vid camera for several seconds before speaking to his left was Magestix Naomi Centrella-Liao, his wife, and to his right was Colonel Hohiru Tanaga, the Ronin Samurai warrior from the Draconis Combine who commanded the Hell’s Black Aces Aerospace Regiment, the reason they were here today.
“Honoured Citizens of the Divine Capellan Nation and Citizens of the Expanded Inner Sphere and Periphery†Sun-Tzu began, everyone who had access to an HPG would receive this message. “After fifty-two years the Hell’s Black Aces returned to the Capellan Confederation to serve their home nation once more as mercenary warriors but as Capellans Reborn. Ten years of honoured service later the Hell’s Black Aces have chosen to return to the fold and become fully part of the Capellan Confederation’s Armed Forces, in honour of their status and the non-Capellan officers still serving in this blessed unit the Hell’s Black Aces will remain an independent unit attached to the Capellan Brigade and under the continued command of Sang-shao Hohiru Tanaga.†The chancellor said raising to his feet on cue Hohiru Tanaga bowed his head as did Naomi Centrella-Liao, although not as much from her. “Sang-Shao, ensure your pilots continue to strike fear into our nations enemies and the Capellan people will be eternally grateful.â€
“I shall, Chancellor, I shall†Hohiru said raising his head slightly to look at the Chancellor “the Hell’s Black Aces are Honoured to be home.†He said speaking for his unit if not himself, he was an old Ronin warrior, he had no home only his unit that was enough, it always had been.
Vehicle Proving Grounds
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
24th June 3072
With assistance from Clan Nova Cat’s Tau Galaxy the engineers and scientists of the New Haiti Armoured Vehicle Plant debut the SM-2 Tank Destroyer on schedule onto the New Haiti Proving Grounds. Like the SM-1 the new vehicle goes onto make an impressive showing. Unlike the SM-1 which mounted a ferocious rapid-fire autocannon the SM-2 mounts a Gauss Rifle making it the sniper of the series. For anti-infantry defence the SM-2 makes use of the vehicle’s fusion engine and mounts eight micro pulse lasers on a turret making them devastating to infantry and Battle Armour alike as well as threatening armour at point blank ranges.
Because of the help provided by Tau Galaxy in the development and testing of this craft and like the move made on the SM-1 Tau Galaxy receive an entire star of these vehicles before any other unit in the Nova Cat Touman. Within the Nova Cats there are rumblings that Tau Galaxy is little more than a show unit for new technology and yet they still get the new toys first.
Planetary Government, President’s Office
New Promise, Gllfillian’s Gold
Rim Collection, Periphery
3rd July 3072
Sitting in the President’s Office, Colonel Jerry Able, President William Roberts, Economic Minister Tracy Hawkins and Lyran Ambassador Merle Briggs were sitting around discussing the trade alliance that the Rim Collection shared with the Lyran Alliance. “With Lyran forces supporting your own pirate attacks have dropped by more than forty-five percent, from a singular military and security perspective the alliance has done well by your nation.†Merle was saying.
“I agree with the Ambassador, our nation has been far safer with the Lyran Alliance garrison’s supporting our Able’s Aces and conventional militia.†Jerry Able said carefully, sometimes he thought his Aces were becoming the Collection’s secondary defence force. “The Lyrans have however been slow on their upgrade kits for our military equipment.†Jerry’s own unused Atlas was the only Aces’ Mech that had received any upgrades and two of their aerospace fighters were the only other units to receive upgrades.
“We have concentrated on upgrading your economic networks, Lyran defence forces that have been protecting trading posts have been filling the gaps that your Aces have not been able to cover.â€
“Aye, but we defend our home not the Lyrans†Jerry said quietly, he could feel he was getting too old for this, soon he’d pass this over to one of his officers.
“Also economically our links have not been as improved as was originally promised†Tracy Hawkins said supporting Jerry Able glancing over to him winking at him. “The Lyrans have built monorail links on all six of our worlds however they go from the landing zones to the Lyran depots only, unlike originally promised linking every population centre on each world.â€
“We have had slight problems in supply and cost in travel, the Alliance has been suffering from attacks in recent months from several angles.†Merle said she knew the Alliance had not completely honoured their trade treaty now she was forced to make up for it and propose the next level of the alliance. “I have spoken with links on Tharkad, they are willing to fully re-compensate the Rim Collection at zero cost.†She said, instead of the Rim Collection putting resources towards this the Lyrans would pay it all, a massive bonus for the Periphery state. “Also I have been promised an entire Lance of Brand-new BattleMechs will be on the next trade mission and upgrade kits at knocked down prices will be made available as soon as they land.â€
“An entire lance of Mechs?†Jerry Able said quietly that was quite a bonus for his people, even if they were ancient reconditioned designs his Aces‘ would make nice use of them. “This would help us be more effective indeed. And I am sure it is at great cost for the Lyran Alliance Armed Forces, at what price? May I ask?†He said looking at William Roberts, the President was also getting too old for this.
“The Lyran Alliance would like to move further into the Rim Collection and have stronger links to your economy and society.â€
“It sounds like a wide scale alliance you speak of? A merger of realms? A disillusion of the Rim Collection?†Roberts asked moving closer to the edge of his chair, the Lyran Alliance has never shown any interest in expanding into the Rim Collection, why now?
“Effectively.†Merle said quietly without quarter “your Rim Collection would become part of the Timbuktu Theatre with Gllfillian’s Gold becoming the command centre of all Lyran Military Assets in this region of space. Colonel Able and his people would become the centre piece to a new Alliance Periphery Protectorate Guard, a new Brigade in the LAAF.â€
“That is a very big step Ambassador, a step far bigger than any we have ever discussed before. Why make such a move now?†Tracey asked the Ambassador looked over at the Economic minister.
“The Inner Sphere and Periphery are changing places, Minister, the Lyran Alliance plans on being at the fore of all future moves. This will be our first step. Your people will also benefit, they will have a higher state of living than any other in the Periphery.â€
“Ambassador, your plans intrigue me†Roberts said “but first the Lyran Alliance must honour its previous commitments. You honour those and we will consider your plans for the future.†The President said his words were the last on this subject, the Lyran Alliance would wait for another day for their grand plan for the Rim Collection.
“We will honour our commitments. To the future. Good day†Merle said raising from her chair, the three Rim Collection members of the meeting also raised as Merle left the room.
“Jerry increase our security, the Lyrans may try something to force this, I won’t let us fall pray to a larger state’s plans.†The President said, he was suddenly full of life as was Jerry, both could feel trouble was on the horizon. “Tracey ensure we get what the Lyrans promised us before we go any further down this road.â€
“Agreed†both said motioning towards their chairs.
“You’re tempted aren’t you? Jerry whispered to Roberts before he moved from the room.
“Aye, I am Jerry, our people could use an easier future, part of one of the Succession states could be better for our people.†The President said quietly “I feel the winds of change Jerry, we will see what happens in the future.â€
“Aye, we all feel the winds of change, Mister President.†Jerry Able said moving towards the doors, leaving the President’s office Jerry headed directly back to the headquarters of the Able’s Aces, it was time for him to begin the future for his unit, not only his nation.
Downtown Augustine Capital
Augustine, Rousset-Marik Alliance
Former-Free Worlds League Territory
14th July 3072
In a small bar approximately one kilometre from the Rousset-Marik family mansion an assistant of Duchess Alys Rousset-Marik was meeting with a contract negotiator with a group that would do a special job for the Rousset-Marik Alliance. Following actions against the Rousset-Marik family, the deaths of Ana Marik and Jonas Rousset-Marik and assaults from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, the small nation and the Duchess herself had come to a decision that they could not turn back from and now was the first step against their greatest threat.
At the meeting a price was agreed and a decision was made. The negotiator’s people would assassinate Captain-General Corrine Marik leader of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. They would do what the Rousset-Marik Alliance could not do themselves, to do so would cause war, they would strike a crippling blow to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.
Various Worlds
Cirincus Federation
Periphery
23rd July 3072
On the morning of the 23rd July the Marian Hegemony launches an all out assault of the Cirincus Federation dropping troops onto Blantleff, Maximillian, Zron’s Keep and Hardisey’s Haven at once with the MHS Caesar supporting their efforts and many of the Marian units supporting upgraded weapons the Cirincus forces begin to fall back.
Only on Zron’s Keep do the Marian’s face significant threats the Bullard’s Armoured Cavalry Battalion and a Battalion of the Cirincus Federation’s McIntyre House Guard Battalion all of whom are sporting heavy weapon upgrades with advanced weapons.
The Marian Hegemony troops find themselves quickly bogged down on Zron’s Keep fighting constantly. During this fighting a company of SPT-NX Spartan BattleMechs are seen fighting on both sides at various parts of the battle causing heavy damage to all sides, during the battles they are non communicative and take no salvage or prisoners from any battle. Like other instance the Spartan’s have been seen in the Inner Sphere these Mechs retreat onto a hidden DropShip and disappear without a trace after every time they have been seen.
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Armoured Vehicle Proving Grounds
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
14th August 3072
SaKhan Jal Steiner of Clan Nova Cat walked out onto the proving grounds of New Haiti and looked at the vehicles in front of him, one hundred-and-twenty brand-new Nova Cat armoured vehicles. In front and on the top of the vehicles were the Nova Cat warriors who would wield these vehicles in the future, many were freeborn warriors while others were fallen Elementals who had tested well into armoured vehicles.
“My fellow warriors today we are here to witness a new phase for the Nova Cat people.†He said looking at them one side of the line to another “although other Clans have embraced armoured vehicle combat in the past the Nova Cats have never stepped onto that road… until now. My fellow warriors I present to you ‘the First Nova Cat Armoured Cluster†Steiner said “assigned to Tau Galaxy you will bring our Clan the honour it deserves†he said as one the warriors replied with one word “Seyla!†The cluster was formed and the people were ready, the First Nova Cat Armoured Cluster was now an active unit in the Clan Nova Cat Touman.
Cosara Weaponries, Northwind
Star League Protectorate
Gray Death Industries, Glengarry
Lyran Alliance
20th August 3072
In similar ceremonies only hours apart Gray Death Industries on Glengarry, run by former-members of the Gray Death Legion, and Cosara Weaponries on Northwind, partly owned by the Northwind Highlanders Brigade, both debut their newly developed Battle Armour Suit. Known as the Bruce, named for Robert the Bruce of Ancient Scotland on Terra, this Assault Battle Armour Suit uses the Mimetic Armour first seen on ComStar’s Purifier Battle Armour mounting enough of the armour to match the standard Clan Elemental Suit despite the increased weight of Inner Sphere armour this protection is seen as an improvement over the Clan suit because of the extra stealth and combat modifiers the mimetic armour provides.
Offensively the suit mounts a Support Particle Cannon on a modular mount in one arm and a battle claw in the other making it very adept at ripping into the heavy armour of modern Mechs and tanks. The Bruce also carries two Anti-Personnel weapon mounts to deal with infantry forces, one per arm. The Assault Battle Armour is also very agile for a suit so big, although it cannot engage in swarm or leg attacks the Bruce is able of running at twenty plus kilometres per hour and has a jump pack that provides sixty metres jump capacity.
Deployment of the Bruce is planned to be limited to Northwind Highlanders and Gray Death Legion for first production run allowing all their units access to this suit and for them to thoroughly test the suit in combat and trials. Then expanded to include SLDF and other Mercenary unit for second run then finally to House Lord Armies in third run. Depending on popularity the production will end then however both Gray Death Industries and Cosara Weaponries are open to further production lines if they are so desired. Further lines will be an open product for anyone wishing the suit.
Trznadel Cluster Shipyards
Magistracy of Canopus Commonality
Capellan Confederation
3rd September 3072
Although deep within the Capellan Confederation the newly operational Trznadel Cluster Shipyards had up until now been restricted to only JumpShip construction due to its location in the deep periphery of the so-called Magistracy of Canopus Commonality.
With the Hell’s Black Aces becoming a house unit however Capellan Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao saw an opportunity sending one wing of the former mercenary unit to the Star Cluster he also sent several Mule-class Cargo DropShips along for the journey all full with supplies intended to upgrade the shipyard to build WarShip-class vessels. With the Hell’s Black Aces remaining on station the shipyards were now significantly better defended.
Sea Fox territory, Various Systems
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
14th September 3072
Throughout the Kerensky Cluster Clan Sea Fox units begin to retreat into their enclaves then leave territory undefended by pulling all their assets off world either to waiting JumpShips or massive Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers. When the other Clans enter these enclaves they find the Sea Foxes have left their bases barren and have taken all supplies with them, even their lower caste civilians food and medical supplies have been taken.
When the Sea Foxes are challenged over this they point out to the fact their territory on Tathis have been expanded to include the former-Ice Hellion territories and reinforced as has their territories on Strana Mechty. They also point to the fact that their merchants have not missed any of their trading schedule. The Homeworlds Clans call for a vote for the Adjournment of Clan Sea Fox, however with none of the Inner Sphere Clans present the vote is put off until a later date.
At the same time the Steel Vipers and Star Adders both began expanding into these abandoned territories taking advantage of their superior numbers in the Clan Homeworlds. On Babylon the Coyotes quickly are able to secure most of the abandoned Sea Fox enclaves beating Clan Cloud Cobra to the positions. In a bizarre move on Paxon the relatively quiet Clan Wolf takes the rest of the world securing full control of the enclave, reports suggest the Wolves are also digging excavating a site several kilometres inside their own territory on the world.
Various Worlds
Cirincus Federation
4th September-28th September 3072
In a move mirroring the move made by the Marian Hegemony the Lyran Alliance moves significant forces into the Cirincus Federation landing on Andiron, Baltazar III, Deirdre’s Den and Thadora’s Land. At the same time the former-Free Worlds League State the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey lands troops on Clayborne II and Cirincus ensuring they are able to secure the two best developed worlds of the Cirincus Federation for themselves on Cirincus Colonel Photon Brett-Marik commanding the forces discovers the Stone Ponies Mercenary Company fighting with the Cirincus forces. The Stone Ponies are known to Photon as mercenaries who help hard luck cases for little or no fee and know they do not deserve such treatment as annihilation so he contacts them and offers them a way out, surrender and they will be given a contract defending one of the Tamarind-Abbey worlds for five years. In this time they will not be allowed to leave the world but they will be allowed to keep all their equipment and their freedom as well as full upkeep for all their equipment and living costs. The Stone Ponies commander Captain Lyndsey Reinstadt agrees to the proposal and the Stone Ponies leave the world on the next transport bound for a Tamarind world.
With fighting reported on all other worlds of the Federation the mercenary unit Bullard’s Armoured Cavalry fighting with the Marian Hegemony on Zron’s Keep surrender to the Marian troops, instead of sticking to a safe-passage agreement with the mercenaries the Marians bind the troops in bonds and ship them back to the Marian Hegemony proper as prisoners of war their dependants left stranded on the world.
Attacked on all fronts the Cirincus Federation effectively ceases to exist with their primary defenders the McIntyre House Guard destroyed by the combined forces of all three attacking nations in what could be described as a feeding frenzy by the larger powers. The Black Warriors, the other Cirincus unit, fights retreats on several worlds then disappears abandoning their Pirate State to its own demise.
On both Andiron, Thadora’s Land and Deirdre’s Den the Lyrans find Mercenary forces willing to fight alongside their Cirincus Allies, all are of low repute or new to the Mercenary game, never the less they are new obstacles for the Lyran Alliance forces to overcome. On each world the Lyrans adopt the same strategy shoot-till-they-drop. On Andiron the Gray’s Ghosts die to the man technically entitling the Lyrans to a newly placed bounty from the MRBC for the command. On Thadora’s Land the Fighting Shamrocks die under Lyran guns although there are reports one or two Mechs escape the command is effectively dead. And on Deirdre’s Den Quint’s Olympian Groundpounders, a veteran command, faces the Lyrans why this unit was here is unknown however they are all using upgraded technology unlike other units and it takes a full battalion of Lyran troops to finish the fight from the Mercenaries.
On Baltazar III the most resistance is found when the Lyran Alliance forces discover an entire Division of former-Word of Blake warriors hidden in the mountains. These warriors identifying themselves as the Forty-seventh Shadow Division, Azazel’s Watchers, put up significant resistance before the arrival of Archon Peter Steiner-Davion and the entire First Royal Guards RCT of the LAAF. Supported by the LAS Archon’s Pride, Avalon-class Cruiser gained from Federated Suns, the Lyrans destroy the Forty-seventh on and around Baltazar III but not after a heavy and costly battle. In the mountains the Lyrans find a BattleMech factory capable of producing the most advanced Inner Sphere OmniMechs including several designs that they have never seen before, Archon Peter Steiner-Davion orders the plant fully checked out before anything further is done while he takes the Archon’s Pride to nearby New St. Andrews system.
New St. Andrews was an under developed independent Periphery world near the Cirincus Federation and Lyran Alliance however too far for either to cause it much bother, the world was tradition bound to the Scottish Highlands and the Clans of Ancient Terra Scotland, although they had been warring for a time they were now at peace. Peter knew that the Marian Hegemony in its current expansionist state may be inclined to strike at the independent world and use it as a staging area to strike at the Lyran Alliance in the future. Negotiations take them into October but eventually the Lyrans are able to build a base on the world and New St. Andrews unofficially becomes part of the Lyran Alliance blocking any further Marian Hegemony plans of conquest, for now.
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In system en route to Jump Point
LAS Archon’s Pride, Avalon-class Cruiser
New St. Andrews System, Lyran Alliance
5th October 3072
Following lengthy discussions and negotiations with the Council President of New St. Andrews and the local mercenary commander Captain Michael Nelson, commander of Nelson’s Longbows on planet defenders Archon Peter Steiner-Davion had been able to secure protectorate status for the world, rights to land troops on the world which he had begun by leaving a mixed company from the First Royal Guards RCT and a contract from Nelson’s Longbows which would keep them on the world for the next five years Peter was back aboard the Archon’s Pride heading back to the local jump point when hell broke loose.
The Archon’s Pride was hit heavily from the port by several heavy impacts and weapon blasts, even in his conference room deep within the vessel Peter could tell they were under attack. As he headed for the bridge, made easier with gravity since the vessel was under motion he felt a hit on the starboard side as well. Reaching the bridge he looked immediately to the Holo-tank in the centre of the room from the picture he was able to make out the vessel was under attack from one large target and six smaller vessels, DropShip sized targets. In the centre of the room Admiral Henry Hayes who was barking orders to the helm while ordering the main gunners to hold fire while the vessel turned.
“Admiral, what’s our situation?†Peter asked stepping up to the Holo-tank as the Avalon was slammed by another blast to the port side.
“We have a mite on our back and are preparing to swat it, sire†the Admiral said without missing a beat. “Port Gunners continue hold for thirty seconds, Starboard Gunners kill those DropShips now.†He said finally looking up to the gunner controllers. The Archon’s Pride’s gunners along the right hand side of the vessel answered almost in unison. Naval-grade Autocannons, Lasers, Missiles and Gauss Rifles began to fire from the Avalon’s eight hundred metre length. Four of the six DropShips were destroyed or disabled in the opening volley while the last two were killed on their attack run against the Cruisers, only mass numbers of DropShips really stood a chance against a WarShip and even then only if they carried capital missiles or nuclear weapons. Meanwhile the enemy WarShip had positively identified as the MHS Caesar, a Dart-class Light Cruiser, the flagship of the Marian Hegemony.
“Looks like we pissed someone off†Peter whispered under his breath as the vessel fired yet more Naval Autocannon, Missile and Laser blasts into the port armour. “Admiral, shouldn’t we swat that menace before it does some real damage?†Peter asked looking at the Admiral who didn’t seem bothered by the attacks.
“The Avalon has the armour to handle it, sire, not to worry.†Hayes said Peter looked at him then back to the Holo-tank, he didn't like someone messing up one of his ships but no-one seemed overly concerned by the Light Cruiser, the Caesar was on an outbound flight now trying to escape. “Not happening my friend.†Hayes said “Port Gunners, gloves off, fire at will!†He barked. The Port gunners who had patiently taken their beating from the Caesar without reply now had their chance. Instead of Naval-grade Autocannons, Lasers, Missiles and Gauss Rifles spread over a multiple targets like the Starboard’s targets had been the Port’s were now all focused on the single Dart trying to escape.
Looking at the Holo-tank was great for positional data but Peter looked away to a secondary display for damage, three of the four Medium Naval Gauss Rifles had hit the aft and port armour causing heavy but not crippling damage, two Naval Autocannons had also struck the port side while the naval lasers had hit the aft section. As he watched all four Killer Whale Capital Missiles struck the aft armour, the Avalon’s advanced sensors could tell that two of the Dart’s thrusters had been hit severely damaging its propulsion units.
“Helm continue the turn†Hayes said, the Avalon was twice as fast as a Dart normally now with the damage caused it was a sitting duck. “Aft weapons take that pest out of my sky†Hayes said smiling he’d always wanted to say that. At that very moment the smile dropped as did all sensor data on the Dart as the MHS Caesar disappeared in a blink. Hayes audibly cursed in German on the command deck of the LAS Archon’s Pride, he’d been robbed as had his crew the vessel‘s first kill had gotten away.
“What happened? Were they destroyed?†Peter asked wishing he knew more about space combat the flash of energy on sensors could have been anything.
“Negative, they jumped, the crazy bastards supercharged their K-F Drive with Fusion Reactors and jumped. Really dangerous and desperate in their condition but they are gone. Only way we could get them now is if we chased them all the way back to the Marian Hegemony, with their Lithium Fusion Battery they could be sixty light years away by now.†Hayes said cursing several more times in his native tongue.
“Admiral, for the first combat this crew has faced I believe you did well, take it for what it is and let’s go home.â€
“Aye, sire, next time we will get the little bastard†cursed one last time “and we still have six DropShips for our name, the guns have been blooded, next time it will be just a couple more and the icing on the cake.†He promised “engineering and damage control, I want a damage assessment made on this vessel before we jump. Helm, take us to the jump point and home.†The Admiral said passing out orders before he cursed a couple more times under his breath Peter secretly wondered about the man’s attitude but according to the High Command he was the best man for the job so he’d leave it as it was. Around him the crew of the Archon’s Pride began assessing damage and preparing the vessel for the journey back deeper into the Lyran Alliance.
Upsilon Galaxy Command
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
28th October 3072
Following the vote on Strana Mechty that saw the Clans decide not to abjure Clan Sea Fox for its dealing with the Inner Sphere states Khan Canin Rosse walked off the Vanguard, a Vanguard-class Troopship used by the Watch Keshik, and onto the tarmac of Barcella Spaceport to a welcome of Galaxy Commander Sophie Rosse, commander of Upsilon Galaxy of the Nova Cats.
“Galaxy Commander†Canin said in a simple welcome
“My Khan, welcome home†Sophie said Canin smiled broadly he hadn’t considered Barcella home for a long time, but he knew many members of the Clan still considered it as such.
“Thank you, Galaxy Commander, it is good to breath the air we were all born to.†Canin said quietly that part at least was true, it was good to return to the Homeworlds just to see Barcella again, to breath the air he'd grown up in. “How are things on Barcella?â€
“Things are as they have been my Khan, we are fully combat ready and have fended off trials from several of the other Clans but we do nothing but fight defensively. Some of my warriors begin to feel restless through just defending, the local civilians feel left out they cannot enjoy the standards of living in the Nova Cat’s Den, there has been a couple of incidents.â€
“Incidents?†Canin asked, he did not like the idea of Nova Cat warriors acting against their own people. He indicated to her to begin moving towards the command tower, they began to walk.
“Aff, a civilian riot of sorts. People demanding more from the military and merchants and for passage to the Nova Cat’s Den. We have kept them in check, casualties have been kept to a minimum in most areas however my people are not a police force.â€
“Most areas?†He asked because the world of Barcella had not always been controlled exclusively by the Nova Cats there were civilians from other Clans still on the world and no doubt a source of trouble.
“Aff, the former Jade Falcon population, who we have been all but barred from travel to the Den, have been causing troubles. I deployed the 109th Battle Cluster, being a former Jade Falcon unit, to the area in hopes that their common heritage would keep hostilities down.†Sophie said quietly, Canin could tell she was unhappy with the decision and regretted what had happened.
“And did it?†Canin asked knowing the answer as he saw her make a disgusted face “Quineg?†He asked again when she did not answer immediately. At present Sophie was his most senior officer in the Homeworlds, he did not like speaking to her in this manner.
“Negative, my Khan that stavag, Star Colonel Fresic Irons, commander of the One hundred-and-ninth Battle Cluster, opened fire on the people.†Canin stopped dead, Clan warriors did not open fire on civilians, at least Nova Cats ddn't. Sometimes the Smoke Jaguars and Jade Falcons did but everyone had seen where that had gotten the Smoke Jaguars and the Jade Falcon civilians were some of the least productive of all the Clans.
“What was the body count?â€
“Last I checked three hundred and forty-two, all former Clan Jade Falcon civilians, two BattleMechs were slightly damaged.†Sophie said quietly “the Jade Falcons have been causing a lot of noise about troubles, their people brutalized by a Nova Cat warrior even though Irons is trueborn Falcon!†She said it was obvious to Canin she‘d had plenty of trouble from the man.
“A military reaction?†Canin asked quietly, the Jade Falcons did not have a heavy presence in the Homeworlds so a military attack was unlikely.
“They have made some noise but have made no moves against us, I don't think they have the hardware available.â€
“And Fresic?†Canin asked omitting the rank and the bloodname of the warrior.
“I have restricted his unit to base duties only.â€
“I think I need to meet this man.†Canin said looking to Sophie Rosse, after a moment she nodded and they headed off. An hour later Canin and Sophie reached the base where the One hundred-and-ninth Battle Cluster had been stationed. Entering the base the One hundred-and-ninth were ready for their Khan as he stepped from his Vehicle they snapped to attention Mechs and Battle Armour snapping to attention as they saw the Khan’s crest. The unit still looked very Jade Falcon to Canin, even the Unit Insignia a Nova Cat with wings and Jade Falcon talon’s rimming the bottom looking at the equipment he could see a very Jade Falcon set up was still evident despite there being Nova Cat factories on the planet. Ahead of them stood a seventy ton Summoner OmniMech, primary heavy OmniMech of Clan Jade Falcon. Star Colonel Fresic Irons stood at the foot of the Mech, he looked like the typical arrogant, better than you, Jade Falcon as he walked up to the Khan and Galaxy Commander, he didn‘t even salute Canin he just looked at the Khan and the Galaxy Commander both senior officers.
“What is required of us?†Fresic asked looking at Sophie, not even acknowledging the Khan.
“Khan Canin Rosse, meet Fresic Irons, Star Colonel and commander of the One hundred-and-ninth Battle Cluster.†She said looking from Canin to Fresic, the Star Colonel straightened slightly but made no obvious notes to notice of being in a Khan’s presence.
“Star Colonel, what is your problem?†Canin asked looking the Star Colonel up and down.
“I have a problem with this planet, this Clan, this Galaxy and You. I declare a Trial of Refusal against you ’Khan’ Canin Rosse.†Fresic Irons said looking at the Khan straight out.
“Your terms Star Colonel? You cannot declare a Trial against our Khan without grounds.†Sophie Rosse said stepping forward.
“This planet is ours, it is time we strike out yet we remain here. This Clan is weak and has run from the Homeworlds, this Galaxy is unwilling to step up to the threats of public mutiny and you are never here. This “Khan“ consorts with a freeborn regularly and supports another Khan despite it being fractured worse than the Fire Mandrills.†Fresic said quietly “I declare this trial for the good of our Clan and my troops.†Fresic said angrily.
“If you have a problem you have it with me, Star Colonel†Sophie said stepping forward to her Khan’s defence “I am you commander†she reminded him however Canin had already passed her.
“Star Colonel choose you trial and we will meet in a Circle of Equals†Canin said loud enough for all to hear looking straight at the former Jade Falcon warrior, everyone looked surprised at their Khan’s announcement, Fresic Irons looked amused and happy at the prospect of facing his Khan in combat.
“We will fight where we were born to fight in the Cockpit of a Mech, six hours in the firing ranges to the east of this base.†Fresic said after a few moments Canin only nodded then turned to Sophie Rosse.
“Galaxy Commander make it happen. It appears that the One hundred-and-ninth Battle Cluster is indeed ready for combat, let us show them how a Nova Cat truly fights, Quiaff?†He said loud enough for all to hear before heading back into the transport, he would return here but next time at the helm of his Dragon Cat.
“Aff, My Khan†she said watching him enter the vehicle before following the Khan without another word.
Six hours later Canin walked his Dragon Cat OmniMech onto the firing ranges near the One hundred-and-ninth’s base at the other end of the range was Fresic Irons in his Summoner. Looking at the Star Colonel’s Mech just over a kilometre away Canin could see the Summoner was outfitted his OmniMech in the Alternate Alpha configuration giving the Star Colonel a Gauss Rifle, Short Range Missile launcher and Large Pulse Laser along with the standard built-in Jump Jets on the Summoner design. Canin had likewise outfitted his OmniMech with the Alpha configuration giving the Dragon Cat a Gauss Rifle and three Heavy Medium Lasers tied to the Targeting Computer, an Short Range Missile launcher as large as the Summoner’s but linked to an advanced Fire Control Suite and a set of five Jump Jets matching the Summoner, this would be an interesting fight both Mechs matched in tonnage and were close in firepower.
Activating the communication’s channel it was Fresic who spoke first “I Fresic Irons, Star Colonel and commander of the One hundred-and-ninth Battle Cluster of Clan Nova Cat, have challenged our Khan to a trial not through the want for personal gain but to bring the Nova Cats back onto the path we were destined to follow by the Great Father. And to ensure the Nova Cats are established in the Homeworlds as a force to be reckoned with, not just here for the sake of it.†He said then continued “this Circle is not to the death but if that is what it takes then so be it.†The Star Colonel said Canin noticed the Summoner flex its joints slightly as he finished talking, Fresic really did like to play the crowd Canin thought knowing that everyone in the area would hear and see that, now it was his turn.
“I am Canin Rosse, born to this soil, I am Khan of Clan Nova Cat and I have answered this challenge, may no other enter.†He said then together they finished with “Seyla†keeping with tradition there was a moments of silence Canin flipped the communications suite to passive and waited he’d let Fresic make the first move, it would be one of his last. Unlike Fresic Irons the Khan had already decided the fate of the loser of this battle, only one would walk away from this.
The Star Colonel accelerated his Summoner forward and to the right attempting to get into range of the still stationary Dragon Cat. Instead of moving Canin Linked the left arm mounted gauss rifle to the targeting computer, instantly he could feel the rifle be held in line by the advanced piece of equipment. Dropping the cross-hairs over the Summoner, he saw a second set lock over the seventy ton charging Mech and both sets go black, as the computer also achieved a lock there was an audible ‘bang’ as the Mech shook with the launching of the slug. The gauss round crossed the distance in a blink of an eye the supersonic piece of Ferro-nickel impacted the Summoner’s left leg obliterating nearly a ton of armour. To Fresic Irons credit he didn’t stop or falter in his charge instead he launched the OmniMech skyward firing one of his own gauss slugs in reply as the Mech reached the top of it’s jump. The gauss slug slammed into the Dragon Cat’s upper torso missing the cockpit by a metre or so, the stationary OmniMech took the hit easily and Canin had little to do controlling his Mech the stabilizing gyro doing its job. Instead he began to accelerate the heavy Mech bringing his Mech to a run straight for the Summoner. Just within range he linked the three right arm mounted heavy medium lasers to the targeting computer at the same time firing another gauss slug into the Summoner’s left arm this time. Fresic Irons replied with a right arm large pulse laser, the pulse blasts hit the lower torso section on the Dragon Cat, the armour on Canin’s OmniMech could easily take it and the Dragon Cat continued to charge forward, closing the gap.
Glancing at the range Canin noticed it read four hundred metres and launched the Dragon Cat skyward still heading right for the Summoner which was continuing on its course, Fresic Irons turning the Summoner to track the Khan’s Mech. In Mid-air Canin opened fire with the short range missile launcher, six high explosive missiles shot towards the Summoner, guided by the Dragon Cat’s Artemis Advanced Fire Control suite, the Summoner’s return flight of missiles missed the Dragon Cat by five-to-ten metres detonating overhead becoming a spectacular expensive fire work display. As the Dragon Cat began to fall, ending its jump, Canin brought the heavy laser suite inline with the Summoner as well and just as his own missiles hit blossoming fire over the OmniMech he triggered the Lasers, notoriously inaccurate normally the hit would have missed but because of the targeting computer they fired true. Two of the opal beams hit the right arm while the third hit the torso less than a metre from the Summoner’s cockpit. Landing the Dragon Cat Canin was hit by a wave of excess heat from the fusion engine, the heat sinks were beginning to be overloaded by the constant moving and firing. Instead of stopping Canin slapped the override and fired the gauss rifle, at less than three hundred metres and with the targeting computer there was no chance of the slug missing and it slammed into the Summoner’s upper left arm, there was a massive explosion as the supersonic slug his and the entire arm and attached gauss rifle flew clear of the OmniMech, robbing Fresic Irons of his main weapon.
To his credit Fresic did not give up instead he launched the Summoner airborne on Jump Jet flame leaping towards the overheating Dragon Cat firing more short range missiles, only three of the six missiles struck two shaking the Mech up causing minor damage while the third struck the cockpit throwing Canin around and damaging the life support systems, things were going to get a lot hotter in here if the Khan didn‘t finish this fight. “Stavag!†He cursed under his breath launching another six short range missiles into the Summoner striking all over the OmniMech’s already damaged leg armour, he followed it up with another gauss rifle slug to the torso. By keeping to low heat generating weapons the Dragon Cat’s temperature had at least, temporally gone down.
The damaged Summoner continued to close firing its pulse laser and missiles constantly hitting the leg, arm and torso armour constantly doing damage, slowly creating cracks in the Dragon Cat’s thick ferro-fibrous hide as it closed, less than a hundred-and-fifty metres now. Twisting the right arm into position, tracking the Summoner’s movements with a torso twist, Canin pulled the trigger and the three lasers sparked to life guided by the targeting computer the lasers tore through the already damaged armour burning to gyroscope in the centre of the torso to a crisp. Without this stabilizing piece of technology the Summoner stumbled, initially Fresic fought the fall but the damage was too great, the Mech then fell forwards smashing into the ground face first, because the Mech had been travelling at over eighty kilometres per hour the Mech tore across the ground on its face then flipped over smashing and crushing the pilot and cockpit an unfortunate end to a good warrior who had failed to adapt to his new position. This trial was over and the message was clear, the Khan was in command, even so Canin had received the message as well. His warriors were ready for war.
In the coming weeks a Nova Cat warrior, Star Colonel Lucy Nostra, formerly of Upsilon Galaxy’s Justice Keshik. With the arrival of a new commander and the death of Fresic the One hundred-and-ninth began to make further strives forwards changing their unit insignia to a simple Nova Cat design and trading much of their equipment for Nova Cat built designs, although the rest of Upsilon Galaxy and the population of Barcella were still wary of them the unit were making progress towards acceptance in their new Clan.
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Various Worlds and Enclaves
Clan Homeworlds, Kerensky Cluster
3rd November 3072
In the early morning Clan Star Adder’s Inner Sphere Occupation Forces arrives back in the Clan Homeworlds battered and broken they return to their enclaves. In the afternoon the carnage begins as Khan Stanislov N’Buta orders his Clan to war against the Homeworlds Clans lashing out in their anger. First targets are the Snow Ravens at Lum, although it is not a major assault the Star Adders destroy half a cluster of Snow Raven fighters wining the use of part of the Lum Shipyards for the refit of their battered Absolute Truth.
In the following days the Star Adders strike at several targets around the Kerensky Cluster striking no less than eight of the Homeworlds Clans including their allies, the Stone Rhino Clan destroying units all over the place loosing trinaries of troops but maintaining units. The biggest moves in this campaign were a strike at the Clan Coyote territory on Foster which saw the Star Adders destroy an entire Cluster of warriors and claim a small firebase on the world and a strike at the Fire Mandrills in the Huntress system which saw the Star Adders destroy a Fire Mandrill WarShip and two clusters of troops.
The only real turn around for the Star Adders was in the Barcella system when they attempted to land a force on the world escorted by one of their WarShips. Broadcasting a batchall from the Jump Point they did not bank on the Severn Leroux, Nova Cat Khan’s vessel and flagship, being in system supporting the local WarShip assets. Although only the Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser met the Star Adders it was enough and they met far before the Star Adder invaders even reached the planet. As the ground troops DropShips tried to avoid the incoming Battle-cruiser and its escorting DropShips and fighters the Constantineau, a Liberator-class Cruiser and veteran of the Inner Sphere fighting, attempted to fend off the Severn Leroux. As had been standard Nova Cat practice since the launching of the Severn Leroux was equipped with two Titan-class, two Carrier-class Carrier DropShips and two Vanguard-class DropShips along with its own complement of fighters the Severn Leroux was escorted by nearly one hundred and fifty fighters.
While half of the fighters and the DropShips engaged and drove off the Star Adder ground troops the remaining fighters and the Severn Leroux ripped into the Star Adder WarShip. Under the careful direction of Star Admiral Anders McKenna targeted specific areas of the Liberator while fighters targeted other positions. After four hours the Constantineau was no longer able to maintain position or continue to fight without assistance, with their DropShips scattered or destroyed the Star Adder commander surrendered his vessel and crew to the Nova Cats. Nova Cat Elemental Marines quickly secured the vessel and a prize crew with Tug-class DropShips arrived to keep the vessel under control following the damage caused.
Although it had cost them nearly eighty aerospace fighters and three DropShips the Nova Cats had netted themselves a new WarShip capable of being repaired and hopefully upgraded to Anna Rosse-class specifications, the Liberator like the Anna Rosse was based on the Star League-era's Avatar-class Cruiser. Taking this as a victory the Nova Cats allowed the invading Star Adders to leave without further loss. The Nova Cats then replaced the two lost Titan-class Carrier DropShips with newly acquired Raven-class vessels from Clan Snow Raven, these vessels could carry the same amount of fighters but have better firepower and chances of survival than the older design.
With this loss the Star Adders decided that they needed to secure their positions before making another rash move like Barcella and pulled back to their enclaves and the newly acquired territories.
Titan Shipyards
Titan Orbit, Sol System
Star League Protectorate
14th November 3072
With two Artemis-class Diplomatic Vessels under construction at the Titan Shipyards the Star League engineers saw wisdom in beginning to renovate some of the mothballed vessels held at the Titan Shipyards and in the dead space within the Sol System. Starting small the Star League engineers began work on the CSWS Determination and the WoBS Liberty, two Vincent Mk.39-class Corvettes one belonging to ComStar another to the Word of Blake. These vessels were in the best condition for refit and work began immediately.
The decision was made quite quickly that the Vincents would have their weapons upgraded to a more modern standard using the famed modular structure of the design as an advantage.
Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City)
Sian, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
16th November 3072
Everything was quiet on Sian, too quiet, Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao knew that something had to go wrong. Sitting on his throne Sun-Tzu was reading a military report on the Trznadel Cluster Shipyards, soon they would be capable of creating WarShips there soon, the Capellan Navy could be rebuilt. But at what point? The Federated Suns, Free Worlds League Remnant even the resurgent Star League Defence Force all had significant naval assets, in a war on the scale of the Succession Lords the Capellan navy would have no chance of survival in head on confrontations with any of the nations.
Sun-Tzu felt depressed at the thought at that very moment Duchess Naomi Centrella-Liao entered the room with their son Dao-Shen in her arms, the two year-old was asleep, Naomi had a smile on her face. The Chancellor felt worried already “what is it?â€
“I have good news†Naomi said smiling again, she didn’t wait for a reply “I am pregnant, my husband.†She said her smile seemed to get bigger, Sun-Tzu joined her in smiling another child, a future for the Capellan people and for the Liao family line, today was turning out to be a not bad day at all.
“It is time for a celebration†Sun-Tzu announced standing a smile now on his own lips “I want all of the Capellan people to know before the end of this day that we will have another child.†He said “and soon the whole of humanity will know, the Capellan Confederation is on the road to greatness.â€
Nadir point
Dagda system, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
28th November 3072
The Nova Cat vessel Nebulous, a York-class Destroyer/Carrier, entered the Dagda system near several Star Adder JumpShips. Moving at the Star Adder vessels the ship’s commander Star Commodore Galen Devalis then challenged the Star Adders to a Trial of Possession for the ships, their cargo and crews. The Star Adders attempted to claim they could not fight because they were JumpShips and the Nebulous was a WarShip but the Nova Cat commander told them that they carried fighters and it would be Nova Cat fighters that were fighting for the Nova Cats, the Nebulous was only here as escort and transport.
Following a lengthy bidding process between the various DropShip and JumpShip commanders a force of Star Adder fighters comprised of aerospace units from all the ships was assembled and ready to engage the Nebulous’ fighters. In a three-quarter of an hour battle the Nova Cat fighters are able to edge a victory over the Star Adder fighters who operate in single groups, like they were from different ships not a team. Once the Nova Cats are able to isolate single points of aerospace fighters then the Star Adders quickly fall to pieces. By the end of the battle the Nova Cats have defeated over eighty percent of the fighters and secured the JumpShip’s surrender.
Upon returning to Barcella with the three JumpShips, their attached DropShips, cargo and crew Khan Canin Rosse congratulates the crew of the Nebulous personally and announces a new Provisional Garrison Galaxy will be formed on Barcella with the resources captured from the Star Adders and the new units he had brought from the Inner Sphere. That night however Canin has a vision, which he shares with no-one, instead he recalls all the Watch Keshik to their DropShip and orders the Vanguard into space. In orbit they are met by the Severn Leroux which immediately moves to a pirate-point near Barcella and jumps, the Khan is needed in the Inner Sphere, a great storm is on the horizon.
Nadir Point Staging Area
Unknown System, Deep Periphery
3rd December 3072
Following their replacement in the Clan Homeworlds the Nineteenth Striker Regiment of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade had made good time on their journey back to the Inner Sphere. They were a couple of systems clear of the Draconis Combine charging their K-F Drives and Lithium Fusion Batteries when disaster hit. As the eight JumpShips charged their drives protected by an aerospace fighter screen, a necessary precaution in the Periphery, three WarShips jumped into the system. The vessels two Pinto-class Corvettes and one Riga-class Frigate bore no identification marks. They offered no challenge or warning and immediately opened fire on the nearest JumpShip destroying two vessels in the opening salvo killing an entire Battalion of the Nineteenth Striker. As aerospace fighters attempted to divert attention away from the JumpShips the WarShips destroy another JumpShip and disable another. While troop DropShips disengage from the stricken JumpShip the remaining four JumpShips ‘hot-charge’ their Jump-Drives and leave the system. Last sensor logs suggest the remaining fighters and DropShips attempting ramming attacks against the three WarShips however the fate on these units is unknown. The Nineteenth has lost half its troops and heads for Dieron to join the rest of the Eridani Brigade, it will take years to rebuild and the entire Inner Sphere is now confronted by a new threat from the deep.
Near Orbit
Marik, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former Free Worlds League
24th December 3072
Two days before Christmas an unknown vessel had entered the Marik system and begun a steady burn towards the homeworld of the Marik Family and seat of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth government. The WarShip Corinth, a Thera-class Carrier, stood over the world with its escort DropShips and over two hundred fighters however the target was an unknown.
On Christmas Eve the target revealed itself to be a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, a smaller vessel than the Corinth but one designed specifically to destroy enemy WarShips unlike the Thera, which was a Carrier designed for non-direct combat.
Ahead of the Black Lion came four DropShips and their combined fighter screen along with the Battle-cruiser’s own fighters. At first the Free Worlds League crew on the Corinth thought the DropShips were being sacrificed, sent as a diversion, and sent half their fighters along with their four DropShips to intercept, however, they soon realised this mistake of this action when their DropShips were swiftly destroyed by Capital Missile fire from the DropShips, information re-laid from the fighters identified the DropShips. Two Excalibur-class ‘Pocket WarShips’ and two Mule-class Q-Ship ‘Pocket WarShips’ all mounting capital missile launchers and better anti-fighter weapons.
Knowing that the fighters alone would not be able to stop the four DropShips from gaining weapons lock on the Thera and causing heavy damage the Corinth’s commander ordered the vessel to shift position and provide cover for the fighters while deploying the second half to support the first wave of fighters to destroy the enemy DropShips and their fighter escort.
This move allowed the Black Lion the space it needed, moving in the Battle-cruiser kept the Corinth at bay with a combination of capital missile and Naval Autocannon while the DropShips fought a loosing delaying action keeping the fighters tied up and worrying the Carrier’s gunners with capital missiles. As the Black Lion manoeuvred its true target was revealed as the broadside guns on the port side opened up, twenty Naval-class autocannons sent first one, then two and finally a third salvo of weapons fire down onto the planet below.
As the fighters finished off the last of the Black Lion’s DropShips and fighters the Black Lion broke orbit and began heading deeper into the system firing one last salvo towards the planet before firing another salvo, this time from the opposite side of the vessel, this time targeted at the Corinth. The Carrier’s heavy armour absorbed most of the damage however some got through and the message was clear if the carrier followed it would be destroyed. Fighters made strafing runs on the Black Lion but it was soon up to speed and to a Pirate Jump-point. With a flash of light the mystery attacker was gone. Having sustained damage to most areas of the ship, lost its DropShip escort and a quarter of its two hundred-plus aerospace fighter complement the Corinth was ordered to return to Marik for orders.
From orbit the devastation could be seen clearly. Although Marik was a harsh world and had been built almost like a series of bomb shelters it had never been tested. The Marik family fortress at Dormuth had been battered parts of the Royal Residence, where Captain-General Corrine Marik resided were totally flattened. To the south the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth command at Malket was ablaze on the ground, no word had reached the underground areas of the command base. In the end over thirteen thousand civilians had been killed in the attack and Captain-General Corrine Marik had been injured in the attack. In the days following the Corinth’s commanders were quietly retired from service for their incompetence.
A day later on Augustine in the Rousset-Marik Alliance the mysterious courier arrived to collect his bounty from Duchess Alys Rousset-Marik for the job done on Marik. Alys accuses the man of being a war criminal, of not caring about the collateral damage and for fudging the job in not killing the Captain-General. Instead of allowing them to cause more damage in a second round of attacks Alys pulls a pistol on the courier and kills him with as single shot to the head.
Although the Rousset-Marik Alliance can never come clean over their part in the attack Alys has had her revenge on the assassins. The Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser is still unaccounted for having never once entered the Augustine system and disappeared completely from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.
And so ends 3072
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3073
Proving Grounds
Northwind, Star League Protectorate
8th January 3073
For the first time in months Lt. Colonel Jeremiah Rose was sitting in his Warhawk’s cockpit leading his troops onto the field and it felt great. The eighty-five ton Clan-designed and built OmniMech moved confidently and reacted as if he had never left but Jeremiah felt different somehow. Since becoming a Colonel of Northwind there was a new sense of purpose and responsibility in him and the other former Black Thorns. The Northwind Renegades were a brand-new unit, and although they had received some experienced warriors from other Highlander unit’s the were very inexperienced and were organised in a completely new way. Over the next few months they would be watched very carefully. “Okay people let’s make sure we put on a good show, Stirling’s Fusiliers are one of Northwind’s best and most famed units, we are here to show we deserve to be the next to join that line and to gain the Inner Sphere’s respect. No mistakes, no trouble.†Jeremiah said quietly “Thorn One to Control check.†He said on a separate communication frequency.
“Clear Thorn, we have a couple of stragglers in the epsilon quadrant but they are picking it up, nice speech by the way Colonel.†Control said, Jeremiah smiled Control was his younger sister Riana Jackson. Although she was a MechWarrior and would normally be riding alongside him because of recent myomer implants in her legs as treatment for damage caused in battle. Riana was on a strict light duty order from doctors, she’d pushed to be allowed in the Regiment’s command vehicle near Castle Northwind watching the battle via remote operated vehicles (ROV‘s).
“Understood, keep an eye for me. What about the Fusiliers?â€
“They are pushing forward still just beyond the canyon, looks like Stirling wants to give us a straight fight.†Riana said quietly “the air-cover on both sides are fully engaged.â€
“And?†Jeremiah asked spotting the first Fusilier’s Mech on his scanners, a forty-five ton Shadow Cat, Clan OmniMech.
“We are being hammered, their superior numbers and tech are telling.â€
“Understood, have spotted enemy. Keep an eye on the fighters, I want to try to keep at least a squadron in reserve but commit as necessary. Engaging single Shadow Cat at point Zulu Sixteen-One.â€
“Understood Thorn One, good hunting†Riana said and cut the link. The Shadow Cat fired a single volley from its paired Extended-Range Large Lasers then began to run, wishing to report what it had discovered.
“I think not.†Jeremiah said quietly linking all four of his assault Mech’s arm mounted Extended-Range Particle Projection Cannons to the targeting computer module buried in the torso. Pulling the trigger Jeremiah began to feel the heat from the weapons overwhelm the heat sinks, one problem with the Warhawk it always seemed to want to overheat when its main weapons were used. In the great distance three of the four bolts of man-made lightning struck the Shadow Cat one on the left leg the other two on the Mech’s back. The powered-down weapons burned away simulated armour and tore into internal structure and systems. Off to Jeremiah’s right a brand-new Black Watch OmniMech opened fire on the Shadow Cat as well this time with a Light Gauss Rifle. The Ferro-nickel slug tore into the same area Jeremiah’s Extended-Range PPCs struck on the torso and must have hit something critical because the forty-five ton OmniMech dropped like a sack of bricks smashing into the ground as simulated damage overwhelmed the gyros and dropped the Mech to the ground. The first kill of the day.
Eighteen-and-a-half hours later the battle was over following Andrea Stirling’s command company over-running Jeremiah’s own command unit, Jeremiah’s own Mech falling following heavy engine and leg damage. The units had both fought well but the Fusilier’s better skill and superior aerospace cover had won them the day, during the debriefings several of the Fusilier’s officers had commented on the Renegades promise, however in Jeremiah’s eyes they still had a long way to go.
University of Thorin
Thorin, Freedom Theatre
Isle of Skye, Lyran Alliance
12th January 3073
Following three years in and around the site of the University of Thorin archaeologists are convinced that they have salvaged all they can from the previous site and clear out allowing construction teams to move in. The teams instantly begin to clear the site of and dig down to lay the foundations for the first building of the rebuilt University of Thorin. The guarding Fifteenth Royal Battle Armour Battalion, of the Second Battle Armour Corps of the Star League Defence Force, shift their defensive duties from the archaeologists to the construction teams and their equipment. Because of the local Thorin Militia however these troopers are finding they are more often assisting in construction duties than combat or training. To ensure the troopers do not get totally disheartened Major Katherine Spade, the unit’s commander, sets up a series of monthly excises with the local Militia troops in an effort to maintain discipline and combat readiness. This move is supported by both the SLDF Commanding-General, the local Isle of Skye Regional Commanders and Lyran Alliance High Command officers.
Peace Conference
Barren Rock, Pleiades Cluster
Capellan March, Federated Suns
21st January 3073
There had been one stipulation for the planned peace conference that both Marshal Baron Cham Kithrong, commander of the Taurian Concordat, military and Field Marshal Baron George Hasek, commander of the Federated Sun Capellan March, were both in attendance. It had taken months to arrange first what security could each take, then where it would be, when, how long the talks would take place for. Eventually the two men met aboard the Ajax, a Fortress-class Assault Ship, belonging to the Medusan Mercenary Command which had landed on a barren rock within the Pleiades Cluster but one that had been untouched by the recent fighting. Although the Medusans were in the employ of the Federated Suns the Taurians had agreed to the talks taking place here because the Medusans were not a Federated Suns unit and not engaged in ground operations against their military.
Following several days of talks which included a complete break-down and threats of total war from both sides the Hasek and Kithrong came to an agreement. The Taurians would retreat from the Pleiades Cluster worlds and the worlds would be given the right to vote for their independence from the Federated Suns and a return to Taurian rule after centuries under the Suns. With this agreement the Federated Suns begins a staggered withdrawal from the Cluster leaving only regular garrison troops in place, the Taurians follow suit as agreed.
A month later once all the fighting had stopped and all foreign troops had been removed the Federated Suns as promised allowed the Pleiades Cluster population a vote on where they wanted to stand and under what flag. Although there was rumours of a DMI or MIIO backroom ‘fixing’ of the vote the results came in a week later and the Pleiades Cluster had narrowly voted to remain part of the Federated Suns. A week following this result the Taurian Concordat announce that they respect this decision and are standing their militaries down to peace time readiness. Field Marshal Hasek responds to this by standing down local Capellan March forces and allowing the Taurian Concordat more trading concessions with the Cluster saying that “although the Pleiades people are more comfortable living under the flag of a succession lord, the Flag of House Davion, we will not forget where they come from or who they are still connected to.†Although the Federated Suns do also increase the size of the local militia to a full RCT with two full aerospace wings in support to monitor the increased Taurian presence in the region.
Periphery system
Near Taurian Concordat
29th January 3073
At a nadir point in the Periphery an Invader-class JumpShip, the Independence of Filtvelt, was sitting idle charging its Jump engines before the next jump on it’s long haul journey from Filtvelt to Fronc as part of the Reaches Coalition Pact shared by the two nations. This journey was normally no trouble however today a Taurian Quetzalcoatl-Scout-class JumpShip, the ship had been on a routine patrol when Taurian Intelligence assets, the Taurian Ministry of Intelligence (TMI), directed them to this system. The fighters launched from the Quetzalcoatl-Scout quickly surrounded the Independence of Filtvelt, under the threat of destruction the JumpShip crew surrender.
Following fifteen hours of interrogation by their Taurian captors the secrets of the Reaches Coalition Pact are revealed. Six hours later orders fall down from Taurus that the Independence of Filtvelt and its crew are to be released and allowed to travel on its way. A week later JumpShips arrive in both the Filtvelt and Fronc systems baring Taurian Concordat colours. Following several discreet meetings and negotiations between the three nations the Taurian Concordat are added to the Reaches Coalition Pact.
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Downtown
Pollux, Sirian Concordance
Star League Protectorate
4th February 3073
Following a dinner to celebrate ten years of independence from the Free Worlds League and ten years of the Sirian Concordance improving and gaining membership in the Star League Protectorate. Primus Helen Thrall, former-FWL General, representative for the Concordance Worlds within the Star League and local leader, along with several members of her close staff and ruling cabinet are gunned down on the world of Pollux outside a popular restaurant. The ambush is nothing but a professional hit with the Primus' party hit from at least three separate points, with not time or cover they are gunned down the Primus herself takes six slugs and is pronounced dead on the scene.
New Haiti, Proving Grounds
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
19th February 3073
Following successful debuts of the SM-1 and SM-2 Hover-tank Destroyers the Nova Cats have the confidence to build the third in the SM-series this one is to be configured as a sniper and an anti-aircraft model featuring a class-30 Heavy Assault Gauss Rifle which has proven to be very effective against aerospace, VTOL aircraft and targets at extreme ranges. The Nova Cats plan to assign a Trinary of SM-3’s to each Galaxy to be assigned at the Galaxy Commander’s discretion, Tau Galaxy based on New Haiti once again become the first Galaxy in the Nova Cat Touman to receive this new craft. Like before there is grumbling in the Nova Cat Touman and Trials against the Galaxy because of its favoured position on New Haiti.
High Orbit Tathis
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
25th February 3073
Sitting in high orbit over Tathis in the Clan Homeworlds the Sea Fox WarShip Terror of the Deep, a Nightlord-class Battleship, watched as the last of the Sea Fox Civilians and Merchants lifted from the world. The Sea Foxes were abandoning permanent residence on Tathis for the last time. In a deal between Khan Hanna Coston and Khan Stanislov N’Buta the Sea Foxes were transferring three clusters worth of troops disheartened by the recent Sea Fox moves and all the Sea Fox territory on Tathis to Star Adder control they had gained full control over the WarShips Renown, another of the Clan's remaining Potemkin-class Troops Cruisers, and the Cho Plu, a Volga-class Transport, both of which the Sea Fox Khanates could use in the future. The only territory they now held was on Strana Mechty, shared capital of the Clans. The other Clans take serious exception to this move however the Sea Foxes refuse to say what they are up to or how they plan to support their civilian populations, no votes of abjurnment are called or would pass too many rely on the Sea Fox Clan for trade.
Also on Tathis Clan Stone Rhino transfers its enclave to Clan Star Adder as well gaining access to one of the Clan’s Orbital WarShip Caches in response. The Stone Rhinos take the General Stuart, an ancient Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, from the cache and move it to the Lum system for refit at the Shipyards. This brings the Stone Rhino fleet to six WarShips three Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, One Riga-class Frigate, One Essex Mk. I-class Destroyer and a York-class Destroyer/Carrier.
Planetary Government, President’s Office
New Promise, Gllfillian’s Gold
Rim Collection, Periphery
3rd March 3073
Following months of negotiations the President of the Rim Collection William Roberts links the six worlds of his small nation to the Lyran Alliance himself becoming a Duke of the Lyran High Court. The Rim Collection becomes the Distant Rim, a new region of the Lyran Alliance with the Able’s Aces and the local militia on the former-Rim Collection worlds becoming the newly formed Seventh Alliance Guards, the plan if for this unit to eventually become a full Regimental Combat Team. Colonel Jerry Able remains commander of this new unit for now however he like his former president is looking for retirement.
Third Martial Olympiad
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
8th March 3073
The beginning of the Third Martial Olympiad on Defiance begins with a grand ceremony presided over by the current First Lord, and Federated Suns First Prince, Victor Steiner-Davion. Alongside the Olympiad grounds a brand new Star League base also begins operations. Also as an extension of the Martial Olympiad a new WarShip event is added to the competition. Help apart from the ground Olympiad the WarShip event covers everything from tactical manoeuvring, Fighter and DropShip formation control and simulated space combat.
In the space surrounding Defiance every nation that decides to take part in this event has three days to impress the judges and score points along certain defined criteria. However in the end of the three days it is clear there are only two vessels in the fight for the crown, both ancient Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, the Lord Death of Clan Snow Raven and the Vision Quest of Clan Nova Cat, the only two Clan vessels to be entered in the competition. Both vessels are veterans of the original Star League and their crews have learned lessons directly from the decendants of the Star League within their Clans. Although it is a close competition the Nova Cat vessel loses out to the Snow Raven craft by the smallest of margins and the Snow Ravens claim the Martial Olympiad Naval Crown. The two Clans have set down the gauntlet and the standard however, everyone now knows what will be expected for a ship entering this contest in the future, this spurs on the Succession States to give more funding to WarShip training in effect improving the Art of Naval Combat throughout the Inner Sphere which was exactly the point of the original Martial Olympiad.
Third Martial Olympiad
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
14th March 3073
Surprising all at the Martial Olympiad Clan Sea Fox arrive in the Defiance system with three WarShips the Nagasawa, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, the Red Tide, which identifies as a Sea Fox-class ArcShip a previously un-encountered class spacecraft it appears to be an extensively modified Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, and the Nebula, a Carrack Merchant-class Transport. All these vessels indent as member ships of the Snapping Jaws Khanate of Clan Sea Fox and that their leader saKhan Angus Labov wishes to speak to the leaders of the Inner Sphere or their representatives on Defiance. Following communications with Defiance and First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion SLDF and Federated Suns WarShips watching the Sea Fox vessels allow them to close on the planet and for one DropShip to land on the world.
As the ground Martial Olympiad competition continues saKhan Angus Labov meets with representatives of all the assembled factions of the Inner Sphere and the nearby Clans, who although not part of the SLDF are at the Martial Olympiad because it is an excuse for them to show their martial prowess. Labov announces that the Sea Foxes have begun to create city ships from their Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers and that these vessels are now classed as Sea Fox-class ArcShips, he goes on to announce that other than territories held on certain worlds and on Strana Mechty the Sea Fox Clan will hold no other territories or invade the Inner Sphere. They announce that they plan to travel the Inner Sphere as Warrior/Merchants selling technology and their services and fighting trials over things that they want from the Inner Sphere and Clans. The Clan representatives cause a lot of commotion over this not liking the Sea Fox plan however the Sea Foxes point out that the Council of the Clans already discussed the Sea Fox way and did nothing which quietens the Clans at least temporally.
Over the coming hours Sea Foxes make agreements with each of the Inner Sphere powers and the Star League Defence Force agreeing not to enter certain systems, Terra included, without permission. This meeting shoots saKhan Angus Labov to the forefront of Inner Sphere politics with now every diplomat and leader present knowing him by sight, it also marks the beginning of the Khanate split in Clan Sea Fox, a permanent dividing of the Clan over old Galaxy Lines as each vies with the others to find the best deals.
Fisk Royal Residence
Odessa, Donegal Province
Lyran Alliance
27th March 3073
In a light morning rain a Monarch-class DropShip Civilian Passenger Liner came quietly to rest on the tarmac of the Odessa Spaceport. This was not an usual occurrence, almost daily such craft landed on the world which was a secure interior world of the Alliance. However as soon as the vessel landed two light BattleMechs and a limousine approached collected several passengers from the craft and sped away arriving at the Fist Family Royal Residence soon after.
An hour later two BattleMechs bearing the insignia of Snord’s Irregulars Mercenary Unit which was attached to the world’s defenders on a short-term contract. The Irregulars were formerly part of the Wolf’s Dragoons and known as Clan Snord to the Clans due to their tenacity in combat and their not so insignificant complement of Clan Warriors that had been taken as bondsmen. These two Mechs were not Clan designs however, the lead Mech was a Spartan assault BattleMech piloted by Irregular’s commander Colonel Natasha ‘Tasha’ Snord, while the second design was one of the most famous Mechs in the entire Inner Sphere. Ranked along side the likes of Jamie Wolf and Morgan Kell and their Archers’ and Victor Steiner-Davion’s Dire Wolf Prometheus, anyone who knew anything about BattleMechs knew this Mech it was a classic Highlander Assault BattleMech piloted by none other than Colonel Rhonda Snord (retired) former commander of the Irregulars and poster girl for the MRBC for years.
Walking into the throne room of Odessa’s rulers neither Tasha or Rhonda were very amused, they had been working on a dig-site deep in the bombed ruins of the city of Bealton, they had been given full authority over the site, by the Archon’s Executive Order, and were not expected to enter any joint exercises with the local militia today. Sitting on the throne was Count Luther Fisk, the noble of Odessa and a royal pain in the ass for the Irregulars, Rhonda took the lead the older Snord was past her physical prime but still very striking and when in a mood a terror to behold.
“Fisk, what is going on? We are preciously close to a find in Bealton and you call us here. What could not have gone over the radio? Or was so important that you couldn’t come to us?†She asked not caring if he was a noble or not, the Irregulars had fought the Clans for years bleeding for the Alliance now they had peace the Archon had allowed them a choice of assignments. One of Rhonda’s last official acts as commander of the Irregulars was to pick Odessa as their assignment and specifically the Ruins of Bealton, radioactive or not the Irregulars analyst and research staff on Clinton had pointed to the world as being the source of a large SLDF-era vault full of valuables and exotic finds.
“It is not me, my dear Colonel†Fisk said not even the Colonel’s attitude bothered him today, what followed should be interesting. “Colonel, allow me to introduce Agent Anton Gramash of the Lyran Intelligence Command (LIC).â€
“Colonel, I’m very happy to meet…†Anton began to say however Rhonda wasn’t stopping there.
“Who the hell are you? And what the hell do you want?†Rhonda asked turning on Gramash.
“Colonel, here I have a contract and an executive order…†Anton began again, revealing a document, this time the younger Snord interrupted him.
“What the hell do you mean you have an executive order? So do we, and I’m sure mine predates yours.†Tasha said scanning the document.
“Colonel, this executive order from the Archon orders that my staff and I are attached to your unit, and your dig.â€
“Agent Gramash, the Archon promised us exclusive rights to the dig and that we’d be left to our own devices unless the Lyran Alliance declares war or is attacked. As far as I know neither of that has happened.†Rhonda Snord said calmer this time.
“Colonel, we have no intention of giving you trouble about the Bealton Dig site, in fact that executive order†he said indicating to the piece of paper held by Tasha Snord “from the Archon orders: your pay rights to be doubled while on Odessa, your unit to cease all joint exercises with the local militia…†Anton said only to be interrupted again this time by Fisk.
“What!! The Irregulars are here under my disposal, they are required to train with my troops.â€
“Count Fist, you will follow this order or I will follow my orders and begin an investigation into several of your recent financial records.†Anton Gramash said looking right at Fisk, the Count became very nervous and silent.
“Double pay…†Rhonda prompted Anton glancing at Tasha who was more closely looking at the order.
“Yes, Colonel, double your current pay, no more joint exercises, unobstructed use of local heavy lift gear and unobstructed access to the Bealton site. The only catch is that you have to include my team in all your work and that once you find whatever is in the Star League-era Vault we get first access to anything you discover.†Anton said looking at the two Colonels in turn. “We have been following lead of something called the Ruins of Gabriel for the last three-and-a-half months, we have been led here. Colonels, we are not interested in stealing some of the Irregulars finds, we just want some information on Gabriel.†Anton said the two Colonels saw his determination and nodded. An hour later several Lyran Heavy Lift Vehicles, with the LIC agents aboard, moved to the Bealton site with the two Mechs as escort. From a distance the Star League Intelligence Corps agents assigned to the Odessa system to observe the Ruins of Gabriel and anything going near it began to wonder how long it would take the Lyrans to go down the right path.
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Hi All hopefully you've enjoyed things up until now. A confession now, I love April Fool's day always have... In the timeline I've tried to show this:
The launching of CASE WHITE on that date in 3067
The Nova Cat capture of an Ice Hellion Potemkin in 3068
The Attempted assassination against George Hasek in 3071
And the next event coming soon... Hope you enjoy it
Regards
Dragon Cat
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Avalon City
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
1st April 3073
It was the worse April Fool’s practical joke in Federated Suns history and one that gone horribly wrong however for the AFFS and the Davion Family it was the nightmare that had plagued them for centuries. The Davion family had always had threats from outside Houses Kurita, Liao and even Cameron were all names that stood as equals to them however none had threatened House Davion’s control over the Federated Suns bar one, a specter of the past thought long gone. For three centuries the name Varnay had been whispered in back rooms but never considered a real threat, now they chose to make their re-emergence, in the Heart of the Federated Suns on New Avalon of all places the threat and name returned. Ten years of planning behind the Davion families back was thrown into action on an unsuspecting AFFS defence.
With a battalion of Irregular BattleMech forces supported by armour, infantry and aerospace fighters, all of unknown origin they charge into Avalon City from the surrounding suburbs directly at the Davion Royal Palace. The defending First Davion Royal Guards Battalion in the middle of a changing the guards ceremony throughout the city engaged them but were horribly outnumbered and in a couple of short hours are forced back to the Davion Royal Palace and then into a full retreat protecting Duchess Danai-Centrella Davion and her children. Just outside New Avalon Orbit several JumpShips arrived at one of the New Avalon systems secure pirate points, used for military operations, from these JumpShips a dozen DropShips full of troops from the Eleventh Avalon Hussars RCT and the First Capellan Dragoons Independent Regiment intent on bringing combat to the Davion capital. As these forces began to make landing operations the First New Avalon Guards RCT moved to oppose them.
In space New Avalon’s naval defences began to move to defend the world and assist ground troops to repel the Varnay forces another surprise for the AFFS arrived. At the Nadir Jump Point the FSS Hanse Davion, the First Prince-class Battleship originally gained from the Nova Cats, arrived identifying itself as the FSS Thunderchild, its name when it was the Varnay family’s flagship three centuries before. Along with the Thunderchild are several JumpShips from the Seventeenth and Twenty-second Avalon Hussars Regimental Combat Teams.
On the ground the elements of the First Davion Guards RCT, the First and Second Avalon Guards RCTs and the First Albion Academy Regiment were fully engaged with the Varnay Irregular and the Eleventh Avalon Hussars RCT in and around the capital city. At the Fox’s Den deep in the Davion Mountain Range Avalon Hussars Brigade commander Field Marshal Roger William Waters is found dead in his office an apparent suicide, on his desk signed orders for the Avalon Hussar Regiments to return to New Avalon and remove the Davion family from power are found along with documents showing he’d transferred AFFS troops with grudges against Victor Davion, those who had caused trouble in other units and supporters of Katherine Steiner-Davion, into the Hussars or sponsored supporters of House Varnay for positions within the units under his command.
The Fox’s Den wary of the threat posed by further hostile forces orders the planetary naval defences to move to engage the Thunderchild and the incoming DropShips. The FSS Alexander Davion and FSS Sandra Black-Davion, both Davion Block III-class Destroyers and the FSS Simon Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser, move from their positions in the Avalon system to engage the incoming forces. Meanwhile a complete information black-out is placed on New Avalon in a surgical strike Davion Guards forces reach the world’s primary HPG and destroy the transmitter while secondary relays are targeted by Elite Special Forces the Fox’s Den relying on the ancient Black Box technology to communicate beyond New Avalon.
On the ground the as the Davion loyalist break the Eleventh Avalon Hussars RCT outside the capital an move to engage the Varnay Irregulars however the delaying tactics fought by the Eleventh Avalon have been effective. The First Davion Guards RCT are at approximately seventy-five percent and largely scattered while other defending units are damaged or lacking in supplies abandoning their bases to fight the Varnay forces quickly. The ground commanders decide to cut losses and streamline command at least temporally and merge the First Albion Training Regiment with the First Davion Guards RCT brining the regiment back up to strength and cutting the number of unit commanders. However not all losses were so easily replaced it becomes clear in this break of fighting Field Marshal (Baron) Ardan Sortek has fallen in combat. The Baron of the Crucis March had attached himself to the Davion Royal Guards Battalion in Avalon City as soon as the fighting had started and masterminded the evacuation of Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion and the royal family during the initial fighting however his Templar is confirmed to be down having taken a Particle Projection Cannon blast to the face just inside the Davion Palace Grounds, covering the retreat of the rest of the Battalion.
Defiance/New Avalon system
Crucis March, Federated Suns
4th April 3073
As Davion naval forces moved to engage the Varnay forces approaching New Avalon the Varnay family was boasted with the arrival of two Fox-class Corvettes, the FSS Indefatigable and FSS Fox, and the Avalon-class Cruiser FSS Ian Davion along with ground force regiments for the First and Second Chisholm’s Raiders Regiments, both of whom have recently had their funding and recruitment cut, and the Thirty-ninth, Forty-First and Forty-Second Avalon Guards RCTs in what could only be described as the ultimate betrayal of the Davion family and a move that could threaten to start a Civil War. The Davion loyal Naval forces are now outgunned four to three WarShips and if all the ground troops arrive on target the defenders of New Avalon will be overrun by sheer numbers.
On Defiance Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner draws First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion to one side, they had been at the Martial Olympiad overseeing the contest in Victor’s role as First Lord of the Star League. “Sire, I have grave news.†Reinhart started unable to fully express the sense of loss he was feeling, even for an officer of the AFFS not born of the Federated Suns this news hit home.
“What is it? Not Faith?†Victor asked thinking perhaps Reinhart was speaking of personal loss.
“Neg, sire, Faith is fine as is Danai and all our collective children.†Reinhart said speaking of their two families, they were comrades on the battlefield and close enough that he felt comfortable speaking with his First Prince like this. “Sire, New Avalon is under attack.†Reinhart finally said finding the words the First Prince looked like he would choke on breath itself.
“What!!†He almost screamed, Reinhart had never seen Victor Steiner-Davion so angry before. “By whom!!? What are our losses and why the hell am I not on a DropShip?†The First Prince asked in rapid succession.
“3 Days ago, the HPG has been destroyed this was relayed using Black Box, the Varnay family have launched an attempted coup, launching a full assault on the New Avalon system. They claim your complacency is your family‘s death.†Reinhart said Victor began racking his brains for the name Varnay as Reinhart continued “an Irregular force stormed the Royal Palace however the First Davion Royal Guards were able to repulse them. This attack was followed by almost the entire Avalon Hussars Brigade, the First Capellan Dragoons and both Chisholm’s Raiders Regiments…â€
“How the hell was this missed by DMI?†Victor demanded interrupting the Marshal of Armies mid report, Victor had given other officers and cadets into trouble for doing just as such.
“Unknown. Supporting the Varnay ground assets is the WarShips Fox, Indefatigable, Ian Davion†Reinhart noticed Victor wince at that mention, an Avalon-class Cruiser being subverted was bad but not as bad as what was to come. “And the FSS Hanse Davion†Reinhart said quietly noticing Victor’s surprise then anger “which the Varnays have renamed Thunderchild.â€
“I want our forces withdrawn from the Martial Olympiad immediately and have my DropShips ready to lift off the pad by the time I get to the spaceport. We are going to Galax.â€
“Galax?†Reinhart asked, he’d expected his First Prince to charge down on New Avalon like an avenging angel and he'd been ready to follow him however looking at Victor he suddenly realised this was a man who had grown-up a lot since his impulsive youth and the Clan Wars. He was the warrior of those times but his fighting spirit had been tempered and controlled by the experience of being a leader.
“It’s the best muster point for our forces first†Victor said beginning to move “cut orders for the entire Davion Brigade of Guards to be recalled from active positions and to muster at Galax and inform the March Lords of our status and New Avalon’s have them hold back on sending any forces directly to New Avalon without my say so. If their forces reach New Avalon without my permission they will be considered as hostile and I’ll shoot them myself.†Victor warned leaving the room with Reinhart right behind the Marshal of Armies they began to head down the other end of the corridor before he disappeared Victor turned and called “Reinhart, one last thing.†The Marshal of Armies turned “contact Hadrian’s Command, have them bring out the Pegasus, they will know what it means.â€
“Aye, sir†Reinhart answered he had no idea what the Pegasus was, but considering what Hadrian’s Command was secret naval command, and what it had brought the Federated Suns so far he was very hopeful.
Hope was something the Federated Suns was in dire need of. In the New Avalon system about a days travel from system’s star the Federated Suns Davion loyal navy forces were engaging the Varnay forces, and it wasn’t going well. The Varnays had split their forces the Thunderchild and Ian Davion had come in and engaged the three naval vessels while the Fox and Indefatigable had remained clear protecting the ground forces and providing capital missile support. Being a target of the opening volley the FSS Sandra Black-Davion was adrift in space its crew forced to abandon ship, the Avalon-class FSS Simon Davion was heavily damaged and under fire continuous while the FSS Alexander Davion was attempting to push through a heavy fighter screen to the ground forces and their Fox-class escorts.
Against two vessel the FSS Simon Davion stood little chance however it had done some telling damage on its sister ship, the Ian Davion, making the Rogue Avalon struggle to manoeuvre properly. And with the Thunderchild’s attention focused on the Simon Davion the back door had been opened for the FSS Alexander Davion to attack the ground forces. As one final act the FSS Simon Davion lit up their K-F Drive attempting to escape, with this act they blinded the Thunderchild’s sensors temporarily. Unfortunately, either through damage or a miss calculation the FSS Simon Davion never appeared at its intended location, three months would pass and an extensive search of all systems within two jumps of New Avalon would be made before the FSS Simon Davion was officially marked as Missing in Action by superiors.
Despite the best efforts of the two Fox-class Corvettes defending the DropShips the Alexander Davion continued to close quickly dispatching the Indefatigable with several volleys of Naval Autocannon and laser fire. This act alone sent the DropShips into a panic not wanting to be the destroyer‘s next target, unfortunately for them this move made it easier for the FSS Alexander Davion’s gunners who were able to destroy or badly damage around a dozen DropShips before the Fox, Thunderchild and Ian Davion were able to regroup and pull the DropShips back into a defensible position.
Under orders from the Fox’s Den not to lose all their ships in this engagement the FSS Alexander Davion’s commander ordered the Davion to jump from its current position to New Avalon orbit using the same pirate point used by the Eleventh Avalon Hussars ground forces in their initial insertion. From there the FSS Alexander Davion reported to the Fox’s Den on the battle while receiving replacement parts and supplies from secure landing zones on the surface. On the surface the arrival of the Federated Freemen and Wild Geese Mercenary Regiments from other New Avalon continents bolsters the defenders forces which are continuing to attempt to dislodge Varnay Irregulars from Avalon City, to little success. In deep space the Varnay taskforce regrouped and were able salvage the heavily damaged Sandra Black-Davion pressing it into service despite damage done to major systems.
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th April 3073
Unknown to the defending Davion loyalists or the attacking Varnay rogue units there is a third force on New Avalon during the fighting. Slipping into the capital the Fox’s Teeth linked up with a group of NAIS cadets led by Prince’s Champion Colonel Ross McKinnon and his wife Rabid Fox offier Major Rachel McKinnon. Through the course of the rebellion the Fox’s Teeth are able to conduct several operations against the Varnay Irregulars, using the NAIS Campus grounds as a base of operations, before running low on supplies and contacting the main Davion forces surrounding the city.
Arranging a break-out from the city Prince’s Champion Colonel Ross McKinnon sat quietly in his Black Hawk-KU OmniMech’s cockpit, something was wrong he could tell. It wasn’t that he was operating inside his nation’s capital and that an enemy was in control or that his command had been forced to use an academy as a base of operations but there was something very wrong about tonight. Outside the City the First and Second New Avalon Guards RCTs were waiting for them, unfortunately there was a lot of open ground between them and more cover. On his Mech’s right shoulder sat his wife and executive officer, Rachel McKinnon suited in her own Infiltrator Mk. III Heavy Battle Armour. A brand-new evolution of the Infiltrator design which was much larger than previous models and had superior abilities. Rachel had received the suit about a week before the Varnay attack and her squad were still getting used to its capabilities and limitations. Now she was trying to get him on a private channel “What’s up?†Ross asked flipping the communication system over to her frequency.
“I was wondering the same about you, something wrong?â€
“A bit†Ross answered hesitantly, this was between them but still he was in command he should promote a sense of readiness and confidence “it’s just something feels off.â€
“Then you should call this off†she warned
“We can’t the New Avalon Guards are waiting for us out there, we don’t have the supplies to continue this guerrilla campaign and the rest of New Avalon needs to know what we know about the Varnay Irregulars in the City. In the week they had been in the city Ross and Rachel and later the rest of the Fox’s Teeth had seen that the Varnay Irregulars, as they called themselves, stood at nearly two regiments of combined-arms troops, all were former-AFFS troopers, who had been cashiered by either Victor’s or Reinhart Steiner’s order due to continuing and vocal support for Katherine Steiner-Davon to be the true leader of the Federated Suns despite her position in Clan Wolf, and their command base was the former Davion Family Royal Palace. They also had records of a major Varnay push aimed at the Fox’s Den was planned, the defenders of the world loyal to the Davion family needed to know about this.
“Well our time to go is now.â€
“Roger that†Ross said swapping communication frequencies “Fox Actual to all Fox units†he said it was strange retaking that call-sign, since he wasn’t truly a member of the Fox’s Teeth anymore, but Captain David McKinnon, his younger cousin and the company‘s commander, had insisted. “This is it ladies and gentlemen, we don’t stop for anything or anyone, once clear of the city keep running until you receive friendly Identification marks, do not return fire on the city unless you can confirm targets we don’t plan on having civilian casualties caught in the crossfire. Understood?†He asked there was no answer just a group of clicks “NAIS pups, you have got plenty of manoeuvrability in those crates, keep moving at full throttle and we’ll get out of here.â€
“Understood Actual†came the reply from the lead vehicle, they were in four light Hover APCs a couple of machine guns and paper for armour was all they had, they had to run. Ross was confident in them however as they were led by one impressive young man Leftenant Damien Redburn, son of former-Prince’s Champion Andrew Redburn, he’d kept all the cadets following the same line doing what he did – following orders. He’d get them through, one day Ross could see the young Leftenant commanding one of the AFFS most elite units or being one of the best undercover operators around, he was very capable and someone Ross planned to keep an eye on, assuming they got through tonight.
“Okay people, move†Ross ordered throttling forward accelerating to maximum speed, the entire Fox’s Teeth line followed suit, they got around one hundred metres before the Varnay Irregular forces lying in wait for the Fox’s Teeth to reveal themselves opened fire. Three of the Fox’s Teeth and one NAIS APC were destroyed in the opening volley, a full third of their force. “Hell†Ross whispered, they were in trouble continuing to Run his Mech he could see Rachel and her squad still holding on for dear life.
“We need a miracle.â€
“What the Fox’s Teeth does best†he said out-loud throttling to a stop Rachel would know what he was planning and didn’t say a word as he turned ready to charge the Varnay forces.
“Fox Actual, this is Sword One, I have you covered†came a new voice on the radio, Ross did not recognise the voice or the call sign. But he did recognise the Mech, from the shadows of the darkened city a Dire Wolf Clan Assault OmniMech revealed itself, decked out in colours of First Kathil Uhlans the pilot said nothing else and instead charged full force at the Varnay lines. Ross watched the Mech then turned and ran his Mech to the Davion lines a kilometre away, the Dire Wolf had been the ride of former-Prince’s Champion Marshal Andrew Redburn commander of the First Kathil Uhlans. Although he’d retired the Marshal had done his nation one last service on his sensors Ross could see the mighty Clan Machine engage no less than five enemy units at once. Although a fearsome design that could take and dish out tremendous amounts of damage soon the Dire Wolf disappeared from sensors Ross quietly wondered if Damien Redburn aboard the APC had recognised the voice or the Mech, if not Ross would make it his duty to keep that man’s legacy alive far beyond this crisis, today he’d saved the Fox’s Teeth and perhaps New Avalon.
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Thrown Room, House Davion Royal Palace
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
11th April 3073
The throne of the Davion family was in another’s hands, their greatest enemies and once upon a time their biggest threat, the Varnay family. Long thought extinct or too far away and no longer a threat located somewhere in the backwater of the Capellan Confederation, sitting on the First Prince’s throne Jacob Varnay smiled at his triumph “we are victorious†he said looking down at the other person in the room Teri Varnay, his daughter and only surviving child. “The only things we are missing that Canopian bitch, her children and Vic Davion’s Mech in the garage†he mused quietly, the Prince must have taken his Mech off planet, while his wife was missing..
“Hardly, my unit is dead†Teri said quietly, she’d been serving with the Eleventh Avalon Hussars before this, she’d help turn almost the entire unit against the Davion’s single handedly, and now they were dead “and we are surrounded†she said continuing, House Davion forces continued to rule most of New Avalon while the remains of the Capellan Dragoons and her father’s Varnay’s Irregulars held the city. The rest of their forces were in system close to the world almost within range of the planet but not quite in orbit the FSS Alexander Davion, a ship named for the First Prince that defeated the Varnay family first time around, sat watching them.
“Where is Field Marshal Waters?†Jacob asked quietly, the Avalon Hussars Brigade Commander had been due to come from the Fox’s Den and join them but had yet to arrive.
“He’s dead†Teri answered quickly.
“Dead how?â€
“Suicide†Teri said “our agent within the Fox’s Den brought out the data on their final run.â€
“Damn the man, we could have used him in keeping the Hussars inline.†Jacob said quietly moving forward “continue to send updates to the Hussars using Waters name, if anyone asks tell them that he is in the medbay at the palace after an attempted assassination.â€
“Understood†Teri said the Hussars had come inline with Waters influence and Teri’s moving around in the Brigade however without him their loyalty may no longer be bought. “Our attack on the Fox’s Den?â€
“In concordance with the landings of the other forces, there will be plenty of distractions to keep the Davionists busy and away from our actions. We also need to get the HPG online, I need to speak with the March Lords.â€
“Tomorrow should be a interesting day†Teri said moving off leaving the throne room.
“Everyday is a interesting day†Jacob muttered quietly, relaxing into the throne, the First Prince‘s throne, for too long the Davion‘s had claimed it as their own it was time for change.
Various Locations
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
12th April 3073
The rest of the Varnay loyal forces arrived in near New Avalon orbit, several flights of aerospace fighters supported by Assault DropShips and the FSS Alexander Davion attacked them. Although only two DropShips were destroyed the Ian Davion received heavy damage as did the Thunderchild. Before the Varnay forces could retaliate against them the Alexander Davion lit-up its K-F Drive and jumped clear of the system retreating to the Galax system to regroup with Victor Steiner-Davion’s forces, DropShips and fighters from the defence force broke and ran from the Varnay forces retreating to points within the New Avalon system waiting for reinforcements.
Without any naval assets to oppose them the Varnay force were able to land en-masse on New Avalon virtually unopposed. The two Chisholm’s Raiders Regiments dropped onto New Scotland and Rostock, two of New Avalon’s other continents, there they engaged elements of the Federated Freemen and the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiments. In a continuous battle the Second Chisholm’s Raider’s regiment are destroyed as were the Federated Freeman while the Wild Geese and the First Chisholm’s Raiders continue their struggle in a series of low-intensity battles across Rostock.
The Seventeenth, Twenty-second, Thirty-ninth, Forty-first and Forty-second Avalon Hussars all dropped onto various points of the Albion continent engaging the House Davion-loyal First and Second New Avalon Guards RCTs outnumbered and outgunned the two RCTs continued to struggle but in the end were forced to retreat from Avalon City effectively handing control of the capital to the Varnays and turning the battle into a guerrilla war with both Davion loyal RCTs heavily battered by the Varnay forces. Finally good portions of the Varnay Irregulars and the First Capellan Dragoons Regiments launched assaults on the Fox’s Den, there to meet them were what remained of the First Davion Guards RCT led by Field Marshal Bishop Sortek. In a nearly eight hour battle the First Davion were heavily damaged but refused to break while the Varnay forces were send retreating into Avalon City the First Capellan Dragoons destroyed and the Varnay Irregulars heavily depleated.
The WarShips Thunderchild, Fox, Ian Davion and Sandra Black-Davion all take up orbital positions around the planet turning New Avalon into a virtual fortress world thankfully their guns remain on space and not on the ground troops.
Baltazar III
Timbuktu Theatre, Bolan Province
Lyran Alliance
14th April 3073
Assigned for the first time off their Homeworld Glengarry since the Clan War, although they had fought battles on Skye and Hesperus II these were reactive actions to attack not postings, the Gray Death Legion takes up station on Baltazar III in the former Cirincus Federation directly opposing the Marian Hegemony and the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby forces in the region. There the Gray Death Legion sit as the Lyran Alliance’s primary defensive force of the previously unknown BattleMech factory on Baltazar III, this assignment marks the first combat/garrison deployment of the Legion under Alexander Carlyle and the first since the last Skye rebellion.
FSS Andrew Davion (Avalon-class Cruiser)
Galax System, Crucis March
Federated Suns
20th April 3073
“You understand your mission and what you need to do Major-General?†Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner said quietly looking at the young officer ahead of him Sheldon Zibler.
“We understand Marshal, the Andrew Davion just needs to get us close and we will open New Avalon up to the First Prince’s forces.â€
“I wish you and the Eighteenth the best of luck.†The Marshal of Armies said saluting before stepping into one of the shuttlecraft, this was a risky plan but one that needed to be done. Sheldon’s unit the Eighteenth Federation Airborne Brigade, supported by an Avalon-class Cruiser, would drop onto New Avalon link up with resistance forces and set up landing zones for the liberation forces. The all elite infantry Brigade included four regiments of infantry forces and an entire regiment of Battle Armour to accomplish the task.
Moments later the Marshal of Armies left the ship and the Andrew Davion jumped clear of the Galax system entering the New Avalon system via a pirate point. Immediately the six DropShips carrying the Eighteenth Federation detached from the cruiser, Commodore Ayden Weir, looked at the two WarShips set to oppose them the Ian Davion and the Sandra Black-Davion, the two most damaged Varnay WarShips. “We got lucky†he whispered “have all fighters run full throttle into their CAP, get their attention, send to all friendly naval assets now is the time to act.†He said raising from his chair as the Andrew Davion came fully online following the jump, easiest would be to jump clear again but then the ground troops would be target practice “Showtime†Ayden said as the battle was joined the forward naval lasers, autocannons and AR-10 multi-purpose capital missile launchers began to lash out at the rogue ships. “Concentrate firepower on the destroyer, sensor data from the Alexander Davion she’s the most damaged. Screens and anti-missile systems concentrate on fire from the cruiser†Ayden ordered he couldn’t even bring himself to name the vessels, so sick was he at firing on a Davion-built and named craft. As the Andrew Davion turned more weapons were brought on-line “keep us within the pirate point, and keep an eye out for the Thunderchild that is not our target today.†The last thing they needed was to face the Battleship in combat, Ayden had read the battleship’s schematics and seen the records of what it had done to the Simon Davion before the ship’s disappearance, an Avalon’s armour could take a beating but it wouldn’t last forever against that firepower. The amount of fighters the First Prince-class could bring to battle alone would overwhelm the Avalon’s defences given a short time.
“Sir, we have several DropShips appearing from holding points in the system they are promoting friendly Identification signals. One Claymore-class, two Avengers and an Excalibur-class Pocket WarShip supported by a couple of dozen fighters.â€
“The Alexander Davion’s sensors suggested several friendly DropShips survived the initial battle.†Ayden thought out loud not thinking it would be four assault DropShips “give them a guarded welcome and have them launch a full attack on the cruiser, concentrate on the port side armour, that was worse hit by the Alexander Davion. If they do a good job give them full support.†Ayden said as the Andrew Davion’s weapons array hit the enemy destroyer full force naval weapons of all size tore into the vessel punching through the forward armour and causing some internal damage including a visible forward decompression and a destroyed weapon turret. These newcomers could be friendly or a very clever Varnay ruse but this would prove it either way. “Continue to fire†Ayden said noticing the damage “bring us around to point four of the loop†he said the Andrew Davion’s course was designed to allow the cruiser to manoeuvre but at the same time remain within the pirate point entry zone. Off to the vessel’s port side the Claymore and one of the Avengers were destroyed by the cruiser and half a dozen of the fighters, their fight wasn’t going well. “Recall the two remaining DropShips, they‘ve given what they have, provide cover fire†he ordered as the broadside weapons array also opened fire on the Sandra Black-Davion, naval autocannons, gauss rifles and missiles tore into the destroyer. Overkill if there ever was, some of the damage tore into the autocannon ammo bins which when breached started a chain reaction engulfing the destroyer in fire.
“Sir, message from General Zibler, his troops have landed on New Avalon, DropShips are heading to safe zones held by the New Avalon Guards and on Mount Davion.†The communications officer reported.
“Understood, have those DropShips dock.†He said pointing at the inbound Excalibur and Avenger. “Helm as soon as those ships are secure spool-up the K-F Core, link in the LF Battery and activate Jump engines don‘t wait for my order, we are getting very lucky today†Ayden ordered, they had done their job. The Andrew Davion’s gunners continued to fire keeping the Varnay forces and the remaining cruiser at bay as the two remaining damaged DropShips docked then as the Avalon jumped back out of the system, one registered kill and a successful deployment Ayden Weir was a very proud man of his ship and crew. The Liberation plans for New Avalon were also on course with an extra elite force on New Avalon.
Federated-Boeing Megaplex
‘Floating Tower’, Galax System
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th April 3073
The alarms across the control room on the Federated-Boeing Floating Tower in the Galax system went crazy as the sensors detected a massive craft approaching the station and the shipyards. “Red Alert, prepare to launch all fighters and contact all defence assets we have an unknown vessel approaching. Size suggests that it’s got to be either the Thunderchild or something else big, trouble.†The watch supervisor said, although not military they worked hand-in-fist with the AFFS to defend the system. Almost at that same moment First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, a guest aboard the station, who was still waiting for the last of his forces to arrive before leaving to liberate New Avalon.
“Supervisor, call off your alert, that ship is ours.†He said the staff in the floating tower looked at their First Prince for more but Victor refused to speak further. “Keep our forces where they are, they might want a look, it will all be in place soon. If you bring up visual sensor six you will see our newest surprise for the Varnay family.†The Prince said walking over to the main plasma screen, the screen flickered and an image appeared of a massive vessel. With forward slopping armour alligator-shaped vessel with two massive launch bays on either side of the main hull, a large engine assembly could be seen at the rear.
“What on earth?†The supervisor asked as the vessel began broadcasting an IFF Code “FSS Pegasus†one of the Federated-Boeing staff whispered. “It can’t be the ship’s a myth.†He complained out aloud forgetting it was his First Prince ahead of him, the Pegasus had disappeared centuries ago during the Second Succession War, much akin to the LCS Invincible from the Lyran realm, the WarShip had been sent on a mission the exact orders and their results still classified today however the ship never came back its whole existence become a myth, along with its sister ship Rycon which had also disappeared.
“The FSS Pegasus, a Columbia-class Battleship, held in mothball for centuries until it was required.†The First Prince said quietly, as soon as he had replaced his father as First Prince and learned of the Camelot Command at Hadrian’s Anchorage he’d been chomping at the bit to see the Pegasus returned to duty and now was the time. “clear the vessel to attach to one of the docking ports, I plan to go aboard.â€
“Of course, sire†the one-and-a-half million ton battleship moved slowly into the Megaplex for all to see over one thousand-one hundred metres long it was a behemoth from an age where the nations of the Inner Sphere built vessels that were truly impressive. The vessel was double the size of the Avalon-class Cruiser, currently the largest vessel under construction in the Federated Suns, and a rival to the Nightlord and Texas-class Battleships fielded by the Clans. It would be more than a match for Varnay controlled First Prince-class Thunderchild.
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So does the Pegasus have a full squadron of vipers and Cain as it's commander
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Would love to see the stats for the Pegasus and the Infiltrator III.
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Me 2 Have fun :)
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Would love to see the stats for the Pegasus and the Infiltrator III.
Me 2 Have fun :)
I actually thought it was up already
http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/columbia-class-battleship/ (http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/columbia-class-battleship/)
Look here for the Battleship's stats
http://ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/intelligence-report-fss-pegasus/msg22921/#new (http://ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/intelligence-report-fss-pegasus/msg22921/#new)
And here for some exclusive OBT information on the design also courtesy of Starbug
And the Infiltrator III Heavy Battle Suit another one that should have been on here :-[
http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/infiltrator-iii-heavy-battle-armour/msg22925/#msg22925 (http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/infiltrator-iii-heavy-battle-armour/msg22925/#msg22925)
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Time for fight night, enjoy
Liberation Fleet
New Avalon system
Crucis March, Federated Suns
3rd May 3073
With the Varnay fleet forces confirmed concentrated in orbit of New Avalon and beside the system’s pirate points by Davion loyal ground forces First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and his liberation forces arrive in the New Avalon system at the Zenith and Nadir Points quickly securing both and the recharge stations without any major conflict, even the Varnay controlled Stations were not stupid enough to fire on a WarShip with their minimal weapons.
Along with the ground troops are three WarShips the FSS Pegasus, FSS Andrew Davion and the FSS Alexander Davion, which is still suffering from damage despite the best efforts of Galax engineers, and almost two dozen JumpShips carrying all the seven remaining Regimental Combat Teams of the Davion Brigade of Guards. The three WarShips took up a protective spearhead ahead of the DropShips as they began the journey in system.
From planetary orbit the Thunderchild, Fox and the badly damaged Ian Davion along with an assault DropShip force left orbit heading towards the Liberation fleet. Seeing the Thunderchild move from orbit First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion ordered the Pegasus to carry out the mission it was designed for. There was a reason to fit massive inter-planetary engines on a vessel the size of the Pegasus, insert combat teams safely and quickly and intimidate defenders into keeping a distance. The Pegasus had the speed and armour to ensure a combat team survived running a blockading force while having the firepower to claw its way clear.
As the massive Columbia-class Battleship increased speed the Pegasus swiftly extended its lead over the two other WarShips of the Liberation Forces, soon the Pegasus was pulling four gravities strength of acceleration more than many WarShips a third its size and more than any of the other vessels in the system were even capable of, it wasn‘t the greatest environment for the crew or the unfortunate ground forces riding ‘piggy back’ but it was by far the safest way to get them in system. At these speeds trying to target an enemy vessel was difficult as was changing course to follow.
Detecting this massive vessel heading towards them the commander of the Thunderchild withdrew his WarShip from the others leaving the other two vessels and their assault DropShips ahead of the Thunderchild. The Pegasus soon arrived at their location the massive vessel didn’t slow to engage instead it traded long range fire with the Fox and Avalon before powering on in system. Neither of the Varnay loyal vessels had caused the battleship heavy damage to the Pegasus nor had they slowed it down at all leaving the Thunderchild alone to face the mighty vessel. Now it was Battleship against Battleship, a true test of Titans that would determin the future of the Avalon system, if the Pegasus fell the Thunderchild would overwhelm the FSS Andrew Davion and the already damaged FSS Alexander Davion and then pick off the Davion Brigade with its massive armamaent. The Crew of the Pegasus knew that if they needed to they would be required to commit the ultimate sacrifice to stop the Thunderchild and secure the way to the planet, but first it was time for a passenger of the Pegasus to get off.
“Pegasus Actual to Prince One†the Pegasus’ commander said standing in the centre of the Pegasus control room; the vessel’s deck layout was old compared to modern WarShips. Instead of the longer more rectangular bridges on more modern vessels the Pegasus featured an oval shaped command deck with the commanders situated in the centre with easy access to all commands. In the centre the commander had access to all the crew he needed and a small holo-tank with additional monitors that fed all the important ship data in easily accessible locations.
“Prince One here, go ahead, Admiral†Victor Steiner-Davion said from Dire Wolf’s his position in the Mechbay of the DropShip FSS Conquistador, the first Conquistador-class Troopship to enter service with House Davion, still attached to the Pegasus’ underside the Pegasus size and construction featured specially reinforced docking collars specifically for the increased speeds the Columbia-class was designed for, it was not confortable for the DropShip crews or their passengers but it was by a far in the way the safest way to travel. Victor had ordered all crews preparing to launch to be in their Mechs and vehicles for the trip so there was no delay when they hit the atmosphere of New Avalon. He still hated the fact he had to take such measures to return to his own capital world but needs must.
“Sire, we are approaching the Thunderchild’s position, we will detach your ground forces before we engage them in combat. We will cover your decent and eliminate the threat.â€
“Prince One copies all Admiral, just remember your limitations she isn’t fully operational, only eliminate if you can ensure the Pegasus’ survival we didn’t keep this ship safe for centuries to lose it on its maiden mission.†The First Prince warned with a small smirk, the crew of the Pegasus had trained for months on its systems restoring the vessel to combat capabilities and helping the engineers begin a widespread upgrade the conventional lasers had all been upgraded to Extended-Range versions however the Kraken-Telescopic capital missile launcher tubes were still non-operational robbing the craft of some hard hitting firepower and there were questions over some of the heat dispensation units in the aft sections. Victor hated using the ship when it was only half ready however there was no choice they needed something to match the Thunderchild, for perhaps the one hundredth time he cursed the Nova Cats for returning the Battleship to the Federated Suns, perhaps if that symbol had never returned the Varnay family would never have seen the signal to move against the Davions. The First Prince knew his own limitations he wasn’t the great leader Alexander Davion was nor was he his father he’d made mistakes, big mistakes, some unforgivable which no doubt he’d pay for one day. But letting the Varnay family supplant the Davions as rulers of the Federated Suns would not be one of them.
“Understood sire, we have the speed and fighters to complete the job, I am not too concerned, the Pegasus has been ready for a long time we won’t let her down.†Moments past and the Admiral came back onto the communication’s channel again “prepare to detach DropShips… and detach Godspeed Heavy Guards.†Even from his perch high above the deck aboard his Mech Victor felt the Conquistador drop loose from the WarShip and begin to manoeuvre immediately accelerating under its own power and begin an evasive entry into New Avalon’s atmosphere. The troop DropShips were heavily armed but they needed to do everything they could to avoid fire alongside Victor’s vessel were three more identical vessels all carrying elements of the Davion Heavy Guards RCT. He knew below his Revenants were involved in the heaviest of the fighting but if felt good to be with the Heavy Guards, today would be his first true combat with the command and despite the situation and their location he looked forward to it. As the DropShips began to drop onto New Avalon they launched their own escort fighters as the Pegasus engaged the Thunderchild, a true battle of the titans.
With the First Prince and his ground force clear from battle, shielded by the Pegasus, the WarShip could now turn on the renegade vessel that threatened Davion control of the system. The Columbia-class armament was simple rows of Naval Lasers and nose mounted particle cannons gave the firepower while the engines were designed to bring the weapons to bear on a target.
The one-point-five million Pegasus was bigger and faster than the Thunderchild but it gave away firepower to the other vessel using a combination of Naval Particle Cannons and Naval Lasers the two massive vessel dualled. Unlike the words of many around the Inner Sphere Davion pilots knew how to fly spacecraft, in the past some public displays of inadequate skill had labeled the Davion’s as “Ram first ask questions later.†Now however both vessels piloted by people trained in Davion schools and practiced on Davion ships danced as only Battleships could with wide turns, devastating broadsides and nose to nose sniping battles. The Pegasus aimed to get its nose on the Thunderchild to bring its particle cannons in line and then bring its broadside lasers to bear as it passed. While the one million tonne First Prince-class Battleship Thunderchild returned fire with a combination of Naval Gauss, Capital Missile and autocannon spread along its hull.
Although both vessels lacked DropShip support their fighter wings were still loose in a mass dogfight which seemed to follow the two mighty battleships as they turned and fired. One moment a fighter would be on another in a deadly battle of speed, maneover and skill then it would be confronted by a mass of metal that could soak all its firepower and return with a single shot that could wipe out any fighter in an instant.
It was a battle the New Avalon system had not seen the likes of in centuries and one none of the fighter pilots or WarShip crews would ever forget. The battle’s outcome continuously swung from one ship’s advantage to the other although the Thunderchild carried more weapons than the Pegasus, had more fighters and per salvo they were doing more damage, the Pegasus had heavier armour, far superior speed, better gunners and better fighters with more skilled pilots.
As the two craft manoeuvred the Pegasus continuously used its speed and tried to bring its forward array of four Heavy Naval Particle Projection Cannons in-line with the Thunderchild concentrating on hitting the Varnay’s flagship amidships causing large holes to be boared into the side of the vessel. On one such pass the heavy weapons cut straight through the Lamellor Ferro-carbide armour to surrounded the Thunderchild’s hull melting straight through bulkheads to the AR-10’s magazines. Such a hit should have caused the weapon to be disabled and minor internal damage but something in the Thunderchild’s safety systems failed the resulting internal explosion tore along the hull opening several decks to open space and rupturing the Thunderchild’s fuel tanks amidships.
Throughout the vessel the crew quickly realized they now had two threats one outside in the form of the still menacing Pegasus and the other aboard their vessel fire which consumed the same air aboard the vessel that kept the crew alive. As the battleship’s crew scrambled to extinguish the flames and save their craft outside the Pegasus refused to let up, even as the Thunderchild turned away from battle they followed up their initial assault with several Naval laser blasts as the Pegasus sailed past the striken Varnay Battleship. These blasts although nowhere near as damaging as the Particle cannon onslaught caused yet more damage and confusion as they ruptured side of the Thunderchild.
With the damage taken, the fire still raging onboard and the refusal of the Pegasus’ crew to give up the crew of the Thunderchild, former loyal members of the AFFS sold on the Varnay dream for power knew they were doomed. If they abandoned the vessel they would be captured, an escape pod would never leave the New Avalon system unless aboard a Davion loyal vessel. As they continued to battle the fire and try to move into open space so they could jump clear of the system the Pegasus turned once more in a wide banking turn it graceful almost aminalistic turn clear to all. All the Varnay and Davion aerospace fighters seemed to sense the deathblow coming and it appeared the Thunderchild was abandoned in an instant as the Pegasus charged in one last time. First the deadly particle cannons and lasers mounted to the forward hit again burning through the armour of the Battleship in a deadly nose to nose charge. The Pegasus unhindered by damage and fire slipped to port providing it’s broadside with a clear shot at the Varnay vessel, then the Pegasus rolled along its same course providing its other broadside guns to the enemy vessel instantly another broadside tore through the Thunderchild.
It was all too much for the massive battleship, the Thunderchild stopped firing any weapons, its remaining engines locked on a ballistic course for a moment it appeared the vessel was still running however sensors aboard the Pegasus told a far different story, the reactors of the Thunderchild were operating well beyond their capacity, fire had ravaged her innerds. In a final call the Thunderchild’s reactors gave way to containment and exploded in a massive fireball that tore through and consumed everything that was recoignizable as a space going vessel. For weeks to come New Avalon citizens would be treated to an artificial shooting star show as pieces of the Thunderchild, thundered through the atmosphere and burnt up.
Though the Pegasus was victorious the ship was forced to retreat from the system following its battle with the Thunderchild, the hard burn in system then the extensive high levels of thrust used during the battle along with age and wear-and-tear had caused almost as much damage to the vessel as the Thunderchild’s weapons had. Hearing of the Thunderchild’s demise and the Pegasus victory First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion himself involved in combat ordered for the ship’s surviving aerospace fighters to land at friendly airfields on New Avalon while the Pegasus herself retreated back to Hadrian’s Command for full repairs and retrofit and ignore all hails from any civilian or military force on the way.
The journey back to Hadrian’s Command took nearly two weeks as the crew carfully plotted courses through uninhabited systems and limited the Battleship to a single jump at a time. Once repairs had begun it became obvious the ship would be out of service for at least six months as its engines needed massive amounts of maintenance and repair but at least it had survived its maiden voyage and opened the door for the liberation of New Avalon.
Deeper in the system, still two days from New Avalon, the FSS Andrew Davion and FSS Alexander Davion, and the rest of the Davion Brigade of Guards received news of the Pegasus success and that Victor Davion was now personally taking the fight to the Varnay commands on the planet. Supported by this the two WarShips and a group of assault DropShips had fully engaged the Fox, Ian Davion, their assault DropShips and fighters that tried vainly to stop the incoming forces. In a very one sided battle the FSS Alexander Davion and FSS Andrew Davion destroyed the Fox and already badly damaged Ian Davion. Clearing the way for the Davion Brigade to race towards New Avalon unhindered, as the news reached the ground forces, morale across the Varnay commands took a hit, knowing more troops loyal to Victor were on the way.
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Liberation Fleet
New Avalon system
Crucis March, Federated Suns
7th May 3073
Near orbit of New Avalon’s moon Valiant a Riga-class Frigate and a pair of Pinto-class Corvettes jump into the New Avalon system, the three ships immediately set an intercept course for the Davion Guards and their escorts intent on stopping them reaching New Avalon. After the battle these ships would be positively identified, using SLDF records, as the same vessels that attacked the Nineteenth Striker Regiment of the Eridani Light Horse in the Periphery. In the initial salvos the Alexander Davion takes a hit on the port side cargo bay door causing an explosive decompression venting its contents to space causing sensor confusion and dangers to aerospace fighters. As allied and enemy aerospace fighters and DropShips try to avoid the Alexander Davion the Riga and its Pinto escorts moved in for the kill on the Davion III-class Destroyer however in doing so they exposed themselves to fire from the Andrew Davion. The Avalon-class Cruiser although damaged in previous combat with Varnay forces still had plenty of firepower availiable moving at a course parallel to the Alexander Davion is able to catch the enemy WarShips attention by destroying one Pinto with a volley of ten Killer Whale-class capital missiles. With the Alexander Davion still struggling to deal with containing its hull breach and spilled cargo the two enemy craft turn on the Anderw Davion with has now shown itself as a serious target.
With Naval lasers and autocannon they struck out at the Andrew Davion trying to hold back the Avalon-class Cruiser, however the Andrew Davion was intent on clearing the way for the Davion Guards and returned fire with its own weapons cutting large swaths of armour off both craft. At this moment the Alexander Davion and several assault DropShips having been given time to regroup into a combat formation then rejoined the battle and cut the second Pinto apart in a mass hail of weapons fire. Seeing the demise of both its accompanying vessels and the return of the Alexander Davion broke the will of the Riga’s crew now outnumbered and well outgunned the ship began to try to run from the system. The remaining AFFS forces in the ystem however had other plans, every DropShip, Aerospace Fighter and both WarShip in weapons range fired on the Frigate. The massive concentration of missiles, autocannon and lasers cut into the Riga giving the crew of the Frigate the feeling of a death by one thousand paper cuts as the vessel was torn to pieces around them. With complete Naval supremecy the remaining Davion forces were able to approach New Avalon unmolested within an hour of the Naval battle the Davion Brigade of Guards began landing all over New Avalon.
On the ground the arrival of the Assault, Heavy, Light, Second, Fourth and Fifth Davion Guard RCTs proved to death kneel to the Forty-first and Thirty-ninth Avalon Hussars RCTs which were cut apart with the combined firepower of six of the most elite, most upgraded and most committed units in the whole AFFS, their Ducal Family and capital had been attacked and they were out for revenge. With so many reinforcements and no Naval vessels supporting Varnay faction‘s challenge was effectively over but they continued to fight, now with new purpose to hurt House Davion where it hurt the most kill the First Prince and his family.
New Avalon System
Crucis March, Federated Suns
12th May 3073
A group of JumpShips arrive at a pirate point, in the New Avalon system less than a day from the planet, dropping several DropShips towards the planet, on-board is the Twentieth Avalon Hussars RCT, these forces have ignored orders from the First Prince to stay away from the planet and avoid all Davion and Varnay forces landing on the planet. The arrival of the Twentieth means all remaining active Avalon Hussar regiments had broken orders and travelled to New Avalon.
Following their landing actions and their complete avoidance of Varnay forces it becomes very clear the Twentieth are not here to join the Varnay forces. Instead the regimental combat team under the command of General Jack Roberts had come to clear their name, marred by its sister units, and help finish the Varnay threat to the Davion family.
The Twentieth immediately goes on the attack against Varnay forces continuing to harry to First Davion Guards linking up with First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion’s command. Although none of the Davion Guards or the New Avalon Guards trust them Victor sees a unit trying to make amends for mistakes of others and adds them to the forces holding around the capital pinning the First Chisholm’s Raiders and their three support regiments in place ready for the final assaults.
Davion Family Retreat
New Scotland, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th May 3073
Since their evacuation from the Davion Royal Palace masterminded by Arden Sortek and throughout the whole occupation of New Avalon Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion and her children had been hidden away on the planet moving from one safehouse to the next, some under the Davion name others under the names of trusted families so far they had accomplished this without incident. Unfortunately the Varnay Irregulars, commanded by Jacob Varnay, plus attached units had been tracking her and had avoided the Davion Guard units that were rapidly taking control of the planet. Jacob Varnay was driven now to cause as much pain on the First Prince as possible.
At almost the same time as Jacob’s force was approaching Danai’s position Victor Steiner-Davion was embroiled in an attack on Avalon City. He'd miss calculated not expecting them to track down Danai, he had pushed all his forces into an attack on the capital to end the rebellion swiftly in one action. Now that choice could cost him his entire family to break away would cost him the Battle for the city and probably the whole Davion Heavy Guards.
As the Varnay Irregulars moved in the Fox’s Teeth Company, with Colonel Ross McKinnon, his wife and a group of NAIS Academy cadets who had remained attached to the unit throughout the conflict, held the main defence. They were being supported by elements of the Eighteenth Federation Airborne Infantry Brigade commanded by General Sheldon Zibler. Together they had a very capable force however they knew would be enough to stop the Varnay Irregulars and their support.
To make matters worse for the Davion liberators in high orbit the AFFS WarShips detected the Severn Leroux and several Nova Cat DropShips burning for the planet, with the FSS Alexander Davion or the FSS Andrew Davion unable to intercept in their current conditions. The Nova Cats had neither been invited or expected in the system by the AFFS, with the Nova Cat Embassy and Firebase on New Avalon’s New Scotland continent remaining quiet during the entire conflict. Without communication to any force on the planet’s surface elements of the Nova Cat’s Watch Cluster and of Tau Galaxy dropped directly ontop of Danai Centrella-Davion’s position. Colonel Ross McKinnon now found himself facing off against Khan Canin Rosse, someone her respected, and Tera Varnay, some he despised. Unable to fight both McKinnon needed to know the Nova Cat’s intentions so he took a gamble and ordered his force to turn his back on the landing Nova Cats and class the incoming Mechs and Battle Armour as friendly.
On the field of battle Jacob Varnay could not help but brandish a irresponsible smile although the Victor Davion had arrived with his Davion Guards, the Thunderchild was destroyed in space and his forces were on the verge of being driven from the capital city he would soon win a personal victory over the House Davion crippling their future. Moving steadily forward in his Atlas he could see the villa that covered the bunker Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion was hidden in, her and Victor Davion’s children. “Continue to move forward.†He ordered the warriors of the Varnay Irregulars, some were from regiments of the Avalon Hussars and were here through a promise of a better future others from bars Jacob had frequented and others he’d simply paid to be here they had loyalty to him as long as he could pay and thanks to the Liao’s he could pay plenty.
“Sir, we are detecting DropShips overhead.â€
“DropShips? Who are they? Victor has no remaining forces…†He said his voice trailing off as he saw several Mechs Drop from the sky, they were all Clan designs, he was in trouble. “Unidentified force, leave now and you won’t be harmed; this is a House Varnay operation.†He said into the open communications channel he couldn‘t help but sound worried. He’d known that Victor was in bed with the Clans but he’d never expected a combat force to land on New Avalon. For all he knew they could threaten the entire Federated Suns, it was his duty as a leader to oppose them.
“Neg†the voice answered “Jacob Varnay, I assume it is you I am speaking to Quiaff?†He asked continuing as the first Clan designs began to land.
“I am he†Jacob said, he wasn’t about to hide the fact he was here to crush the Davion families next generation like the Davion family had tried to do to his family.
]
“Good Jacob Varnay, I am Khan Canin Rosse leader of Clan Nova Cat and I declare a Trial of Annihilation against your forces.†The voice said Jacob didn’t understand it how did Victor have them supporting him? The Clans should be rejoicing at his demise. Why they were here? What had Victor Davion given them from the Federated Suns for them to be here on New Avalon no-less!
“Khan Rosse, you have no right being here†Jacob said trying to recover “this is an internal Federated Suns matter. If you are interested in exploring our relationship following this conflict, I will be willing to listen to your Clan’s proposals.â€
“Neg, Jacob†Canin said dropping the man in his estimation even further. “I have every right to be here, your actions threaten to destabilize the Federated Suns and threaten my Clan’s position. You also threaten those who cannot fight for themselves, something I personally despise.†Canin continued “This Trial begins unless you stand down now and submit to war-crimes against the Federated Suns, and a Circle of Equals against myself. Surrender now and you may save your men.â€
“Negative, you stand down†Jacob said triggering his AS7-11D Atlas’ weapons firing on a nearby seventy-five ton Timber Wolf cutting into the Clan Mech’s armour.
“You cannot even pick the right target†Canin said, his Dragon Cat was off to the left of the Timber Wolf and he was in perfect position to fire. “Watch Cluster, Tau Galaxy, fire at will. Destroy these dezgra dogs†the entire Nova Cat battle-line fired as one tearing into almost every single Varnay Mech, vehicle and trooper at once. The Khan’s use of the term dezgra immediately released them from their dueling rules of engagement, concentrating fire the superior Clan weapons began to cut down units left right and centre. Canin’s own Heavy Lasers and Advanced Tactical Missiles ripped into the Atlas stripping the forward armour of all sections, Jacob tried to return fire however his weapons fire was not nearly as effective as the Clansmen’s fire.
The Khan’s Dragon Cat was too swift for Jacob to track and Nova Cat vehicles and Battle Armour as well as what little Federated Suns infantry and battle armour began to break through Jacob’s lines cutting down Mech after Mech. The Nova Cat’s new hover tanks and missile tanks were proving to be most effective in their attacks while the superior Nova Cat gunners and MechWarriors were proving the end of many Varnay Irregulars Mechs. “Canin Rosse, perhaps you are correct, I am ready to stand down. I will surrender to you Khan Nova Cat, not the Federated Sunsâ€
“Too late†Canin answered firing again into Jacob Varnay’s Mech one of the Heavy lasers breached Jacob Varnay’s cockpit killing him instantly, the Atlas remained stationary for a moment suddenly lacking in any control, then the one hundred ton assault Mech toppled forward smashing its cockpit into the ground thirteen metres below there was nothing left of Jacob Varnay, the rest of the Nova Cats continued to fire brining down Mech after Mech until there were no Irregulars left.
Inside Avalon City at the same time First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion was leading a full strike into the capital targeting the First Chisholm’s Raiders Mechs tracking down the last forces that faced against him. The Varnay forces were crippled, now the aim was limiting the damage they could do to his capital and his people. He’d heard of the Nova Cat WarShip over New Scotland and that Khan Canin Rosse had landed forces around his Danai’s position but he had heard nothing since that report. He had no choice but to trust Ross McKinnon, his Prince’s Champion, knew how to handle the Nova Cat leader. Here in the capital his people were still too busy mopping Varnay’s rebellious forces to check out the situation on New Scotland, he needed to show he followed through on operations and what he was willing to sacrifice to ensure his nation survived.
Stalking his Dire Wolf Prometheus through the battle torn streets of Avalon City Victor fought a tear from his eyes, this was not the way things should have happened. This was his capital all these people were his people, even those he fought against, he’d failed them all. To himself now in Prometheus’ cockpit he promised he would never fail like this ever again.
As he moved his Mech forward he saw a Sagittaire BattleMech painted in Avalon Hussars colours standing at the end of the street, Victor immediately recognised the Mech and opened a communication channel to the Mech. “Tera Varnay at last we meet.â€
“Shame it couldn’t be under better circumstances†she said opening fire immediately with various pulse lasers and a heavy particle projection cannon.
“Wrong move†Victor said sidestepping his massive Clan Mech as he pulled his primary firing button on the command joystick triggering four Extended-Range Large Lasers and Long Range Missiles at the Sagittaire as he moved forward. Tera’s Mech was lighter, it carried less guns and armour than Victor’s Dire Wolf but the Sagittaire had one thing in it’s favour it was designed to be an infighter, luckily for the First Prince so was the Prometheus. Continuing to move left he pressed down on the second trigger of his joystick triggering his Mech’s main weapon an ultra-class assault -devastator autocannon along with his lasers, the combined fire of the weapons all together tore up the forward armour of the Sagittaire, the assault Mech even stumbled slightly before returning fire with its pulse lasers. The Sagittaire’s fire was accurate cutting into the Dire Wolf’s legs and arms Victor wasn’t finished and continued to fire as he closed on the Mech.
With all the weapons fire going off at once the Prometheus’ temperature raised several degrees Victor held the assault OmniMech firm with what seemed like sheer sense of will. Tera’s return fire continued to cut into the Dire Wolf’s armour her accurate pulse lasers designed for exactly this kind of fight. She even triggered her particle cannon but not at Victor, instead she targeted a building beside the Sagittaire. The building wasn’t built to withstand such a blast and exploded with bricks and mortar flying everywhere. The wanton destruction angered the First Prince even more, she was firing indiscriminately no care for the people of New Avalon she just wanted to hurt someone if she couldn’t beat him she’d kill his people.
The First Prince’s anger boiled out of control he triggered his autocannon again and again, the shells tore into the torso making massive holes its armour. The bursts of high explosive shells worked their way up over the Mech into the cockpit killing Tera Varnay almost instantly, the mighty Sagittaire now with no brain to keep it standing began to fall, Victor saw the Mech begin to fall, he’d seen the cockpit crushed under his fire, but he didn’t care he continued to fire autocannon shell after shell into the disabled Mech. Finally his autocannon ammunition ran out leaving only the smashed husk of the Sagittaire to hit the ground with Victor’s Dire Wolf standing over it. Where it had remained for several minutes before paniced calls from his Lance brought Victor back to reality “Tera Varnay down, continue mop up operations†he’d ordered on an open channel letting the remaining Varnay followers how he considered their continued fight.
The battle for Avalon City, although it would take weeks to clear out the last of Varnay’s supporters there was one image of the conflict that would travel around the Federated Suns and Inner Sphere beyond. Victor Davion’s Prometheus standing over the destroyed remains of Tera Varnay’s BattleMech, people latched onto the image claiming it showed that their First Prince was dedicated to their freedom and would go all out to ensure they live free, Victor told no-one that in that very moment he was not in control of his actions and had been a danger to all around him.
Immediately after the battle however Victor had one concern the Nova Cats held the ground where his family were, a Nova Cat WarShip hung over them and the Nova Cat Khan was blocking all attempts from others to close on their position. Leaving the capital Victor and his command company got on the first DropShip and headed for the New Scotland continent to see what the Nova Cats were up to, he didn’t want to go to war with them but would if necessary, if anything had been proven by recent events it was that his family was the most important thing to him over and above everything else.
Davion Family Retreat
New Scotland, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
30th May 3073
Though the threat to Danai Centrella-Davion, her family and their home appeared to be over the Nova Cat force were not willing to allow a single AFFS trooper, officer or civilian near the families position. At the same time not a single Nova Cat trooper had attempted to enter the retreat. Landing over a kilometre from the retreat Victor Steiner-Davion and his command company, rearmed from their battles in Avalon City approached the Nova Cats under a flag of truce. His troops were ready for combat they really didn’t want to engage the Nova Cats and risk Danai and his family being in the crossfire.
“This is First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion to Nova Cat forces, I demand to speak to who is in charge here†Victor said scanning the Nova Cat Mechs, Vehicles and Battle Armour troopers, in the air there was even more Nova Cat OmniFighters and Aerospace Fighters.
“Nova Cat Forces Atten-hut!!†A familiar voice said over the radio, with that all the Nova Cat ground forces saluted the First Prince. Mechs and Battle Armour troopers crossed an arm over their chest or chests while vehicles raised their turrets and fighters tilted their wings in salute as they soared by in a completely unexpexted show of respect. “Nova Cats Honour Detail†Victor Steiner-Davion watched as the Nova Cat lines part and a single Dragon Cat OmniMech appeared at the end of the line and in a display that only an elite Clan warrior could perform the Dragon Cat preformed a half bow before the warrior spoke again. “Victor Steiner-Davion your family.†He said stepping aside Danai and his children were on the porch of the retreat Victor had recognised the voice and the Mech as soon as he‘d, it was Khan Canin Rosse himself.
“Khan Rosse, what is going on?†Victor asked demanding to know what was going on, he didn’t understand why they had come so far for so little, it was completely unClanlike.
“A vision brought us from the Clan Homeworlds to this point, First Prince Davion.†Canin answered looking over at the Dire Wolf. Visions were strange beasts they came at you when least expected and could explain away a whole number of actions “your family were a target while you struck to liberate your capital, I could not let a coward kill a family just because he had failed, so we struck. Friends and allies watch each others backs Quiaff? With you and your family in charge of the Federated Suns the Nova Cats know where they stand. I have little time to break in new rulers.†The Khan added, which Victor guessed was a joke, when Canin didn’t speak more Victor wondered what had really motivated his actions, had his sister had an effect on Canin Rosse that even the Nova Cat Khan didn’t realize.
“Thank you, Khan Rosse and thank you Nova Cat warriors, you have served the Federated Suns and your Clan immeasurably today and this will be awarded.†The First Prince said in an open channel reply, it would be hard to award the Clan but he would.
And so ends the Varnay Crisis, hope you enjoyed
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Fox’s Den, DMI Offices
Mount Davion, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
1st June 3073
Although only a couple of days had passed since the last battles on New Avalon the Department of Military Intelligence were already hard at work analysing everything that had happened in Avalon City and beyond searching for clues to any missing Varnay loyalists. They notice that during the final Battle of New Avalon a company of SPT-NX Spartan Assault BattleMechs identical to those seen on a dozen worlds across the Inner Sphere is seen attacking both sides before disappearing after causing nearly a battalion’s worth of casualties on both sides. The DMI begins an official investigation however nothing is found on New Avalon to lead them to any answers concerning this Assault Company.
Front Gates, Davion Royal Palace Grounds
Albion, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
5th July 3073
Following the Varnay Family assault on Avalon City, and the Davion family, and the defection of almost the entire Avalon Hussars Brigade the Royal family had remained tight lipped about the possible repercussions following the Crisis and any action that may be taken. This had not sat well with the First Prince, hundreds of his people had been hurt in the action, the Royal Court had been destroyed, even the Royal Palace had been damaged by the Varnay family not caring about what they destroyed. So Victor Steiner-Davion had, against the advice of the High Command chosen to speak to the public, an more importantly the Press who would take the story to the rest of the Inner Sphere, already images of Prometheus fighting in Avalon City were making headlines the Prince was unsure if he’d ever look at the Mech the same way again.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, we have weathered the storm.†He began, looking down at the podium “mistakes were made, on every level but the blame lands at my feet.†He started he was First Prince of the nation it’s Commander-in-Chief, he had more of a responsibility than anyone else. “We have been forced to fight our countrymen because one family thought they deserved something that was never theirs. We have been forced to fight within our own capital city because people we used to count as friends and allies chose to stand against us fighting the very people they should have defended.†He said looking at the cameras one by one “today by Royal decree the Avalon Hussar Brigade has been stood-down from the rolls of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns permenantly. All active regiments before the Varnay Crisis have been stricken from the rolls permanently, all support staff for these units who remained at their previous postings are hearby under arrest by royal decree. They will be screened and if found innocent of charges will be released from custody, they and you have my promise on this.†He said pausing “the Avaon Hussars disgraced their name, their history and themselves all except for the Twentieth Regiment stood to destroy all we hold deal, all have been destroyed after forcing a fight within Avalon City. The Twentieth Regiment exemplified what all the others failed to, standing by our nation and people, the Twentieth will remain standing as an independent regiment of name and posting until I decide otherwise. If you are wondering who these men and women are, those who defied their Brigade to stand by their nation have a look around you, they guard this very area.†He said, the AFFS Commanders still didn’t trust the Regiment but Victor was convinced that they were on his side and that they wanted to make up for the mistakes of the Brigade, which was why he had chosen to have them protect him here showing them he still trusted them and had faith in them. Around the area he could see reporters look at the troops, who all wore standard AFFS field uniforms without insignia, some of the reporters looked more than a little worried, he suppressed a smile and chose not to mention the First Davion Royal Guards Battalion providing a second layer of protection against outsiders and possible further turncoats, or the DMI snipers on buildings in the area targeting nearly all the Hussars present, Victor may have trusted them but the High Command would need convincing.
“There is however a story about the Varnay Crisis that has not been made public yet†Victor said, this was the part that the Royals had been worried about. “During the fight for Avalon City Jacob Varnay, the head instigator of the conflict, lead an irregular regiment against the location where my family had been hidden by their bodyguard. Though the Fox’s Teeth Company, commanded by Prince’s Champion Ross McKinnon, and some irregular Infantry forces from the Eighteenth Airborne Infantry Brigade attempted to stop them they were heavily outgunned.†He explained, he could tell that many thought the worse had happened to the royal family and heirs “fortunately another force involved themselves in the fight without invitation in my family’s greatest time of need.†Victor said pausing, possibly for too long as one of the reporters stood up.
“Who were these warriors?†Reporter Laura Melville asked “why haven’t they been honoured with the rest of the forces that defended and liberated New Avalon?†Asking a second question was considered bad practice when interrupting a member of the Royal family but Victor allowed it to slide, there would be bigger questions to come, bigger troubles on the horizon. At that moment the first of these warriors began to appear, a group of twenty-five Elemental Warriors in jet black battle armour marching in from the wings in front of the podium, the reporters remained calm Victor had a personal security guard complement of Elementals which still used Clan Elemental Battle Armour, a couple more was not too alarming.
“These warriors were not members of the AFFS†Victor began, ensuring that there was no link between the AFFS and these troops, “nor are they mercenaries or Corperate Security forces. Nor are they of the Star League Defence Force, or of any Succession or Periphery state.†There were plenty such forces still on Defiance still taking part in the Martial Olympiad, it wasn’t too much of am ask for them to have moved to assist Victor; he had many allies and friends. “In fact these warriors hailed from no Inner Sphere world.†He said as a Star of five Clan OmniMechs marched from the Davion Palace behind the podium just inside the gates, the centre Mech almost immediately shut down and the pilot climbed out. “These warriors you see now are members of the force that protected your Duchess and my children, however not all of them, their WarShip is in orbit of this very position.†He explained, the reporters predictably looked upwards trying, impossibly to see the orbiting WarShip.
“They are members of Clan Nova Cat.†he announced, the reporters went wild, Victor almost smiled the cat was out of the bag literally, Clan warriors on New Avalon. He knew that Canin Rosse would get as much trouble for this as he. “For the last ten years we have been in contact with the Nova Cats, ever since we found their new home in the former Tortuga Dominions.†The reporters looked too stunned to say anything on took a picture of the Clan Mechs behind Victor but said nothing.. Laura Melville stood there her mouth hanging open; she had never expected such an announcement from the First Prince answering a simple questions. “The Nova Cats mean the Federated Suns no harm, in fact they have gone at lengths to help us initially trading the FSS Thunderchild to us when they discovered it rusting-out in an asteroid field and helping us when ComStar abandoned the HPG Grid, in effect keeping many Federated Suns citizens in work and in contact with home. They are not our people, they will never be our people, they are the Warriors of Kerensky as he planned them to be Wardens ensuring we learn from our mistakes instead of passing them on to our decendants. Many of you have asked where my younger sister Yvonne now resides, I can answer you, she chose to join Clan Nova Cat. Learning their ways joining their Clan as a warrior and an equal, my sister has proven that although the Clans are mighty, we can live with them instead of fighting against them.†Victor said looking around the gathered conference, he knew he would have lost some votes of confidence with that statement and no doubt have completely permenantly alienated the Lyran half of his father’s nation but he had the Federated Suns to care for now, Peter could deal with the Lyrans. It was time for his knock out blow as Khan Canin Rosse joined him on the podium, before he had started this he had checked with Canin about this plan, the Khan liked it.
“Ladies and Gentlemen of the press, of the Federated Suns and the Inner Sphere I present to you Khan Canin Rosse, Leader of Clan Nova Cat. The warrior who killed Jacob Varnay saving my family, including the heir to the Federated Suns throne, he did this at great personal risk to his own life securing my family’s future.†He said reminding them all exactly what Canin had done “Khan Rosse, I want to personally thank you for your force’s action in saving my family during the recent trouble. I would like to thank you by awarding you with something.â€
“First Prince Davion, my Clan needs, nor wants anything from the Federated Suns we have a home stay away from it and you will remain safe, cross us and you will feel our might.†Canin said evenly, they had planned it like this. He would continue to be the arrogant Clan Warrior, the people of the Inner Sphere expected, while Victor played the Inner Sphere leader looking for a solution it would help Canin with the Clan’s politics and Victor with the rest of the Inner Sphere. “We are a Clan, we take or we trade for what we need, we do not accept gifts.†Canin continued showing his defiance, this way he kept face with the other Clans when they saw this meeting in recordings.
“There is perhaps something I can ransom to you†Victor said using the Clan term “something that will improve our relations and make things easier in the future. Khan Canin Rosse, I would like to invite Clan Nova Cat to hold a foreign embassy in the City of Dundee on the Continent of New Scotland.†The reporters went mental the Clan’s had just been granted rights to be permanently on New Avalon, in the future things were going to be very different for both nations.
“An appropriate ransom†Canin said quietly, the reporters continued to ask Victor question after question almost all in regards to the Nova Cat’s new embassy and their freedoms on New Avalon, a new future had dawned from the Crisis they had just averted.
Soon after the end of the press conference Khan Canin Rosse led his troops off New Avalon back to their WarShip and then onto the Nova Cat’s Den completing his round trip from the Clan Homeworlds to the Nova Cats Homeworlds. For now it was quiet for the Nova Cat Khan but he knew the coming weeks would be interesting for the Nova Cats especially with the other Clans. A week later the Forty-fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers Cluster commanded by Star Colonel Cassin Drummond arrive on New Avalon taking custody of the firebase on the New Scotland continent granted to them along with the embassy, it is the same firebase used previously by the Nova Cat Watch Cluster previously during their year long liaison to the AFFS. Because the embassy would need to be built from the foundations up in the City of Dundee Cassin Drummond contacted several local companies to see who would be willing to work with the Clansmen to help construct the facility. None were willing listen to the Nova Cat queries until they mention a willingness to trade Clan-tech and trade goods as payment for the work, they soon find a willing company local to the City of Dundee that help construct the new facility. Around the area where the embassy would be built local funding seemed to step into overdrive as various companies bought properties intent on gaining a look at the Clansmen. Knowing that not only companies would be interested in the Nova Cats the DMI and MIIO Intelligence services also bought properties through dummy corporations to keep an eye on future covert operations, while the Nova Cats themselves positioned a detachment of their Watch within the embassy.
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Special Operations Command Office
Fox’s Den, Mount Davion Mountain Range
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th July 3073
Federated Suns’ Prince’s Champion Colonel Ross McKinnon sat at his desk in the Fox’s Den looking through reports on the Fox’s Teeth and other special forces under his command. The fighting against the Varnay forces before the Nova Cats had arrived had completely gutted the Fox’s Teeth and the other forces. Ross himself had his left arm in bandages, and hurt all over, from a fall during combat, his wife Rachel had permanently removed herself from the chain of command choosing to retire and look after their son full time. The company’s full time commander Captain David McKinnon was the only surviving full time member of the Fox’s Teeth and he was fully ready for duty, not sustaining even a scratch during the battle though he accounted for six Mech kills, young Damien Redburn had returned to Albion to finish his studies along with the survivors from the Albion Academy though Ross had earmarked him for duties within the Fox‘s Teeth or Special Operations in the future after his work here and with the Kittery Training Battalion.
Lost in reading reports and filing things within the office Ross did not even notice Field Marshal Bishop Sortek, commander of the Davion Brigade of Guards, enter the room. His own First Davion Guards RCT had been temporarily taken off the TO&E of the AFFS following the Varnay Crisis and would be for months as they rebuilt and retrained. Sitting reading the reports Ross heard a small grunt and looked up immediately stood up saluting as he saw the Field Marshal. “Sorry Sir, I didn’t see you there.â€
“That’s quite alright Colonel, you are not the only one licking the wounds of the past conflict.†He said ruefully, the AFFS would likely take years to rebuild from this conflict ten BattleMech Regiments destroyed, five WarShips lost, one missing and several others heavily damaged, the Varnay family had failed to secure leadership of the Federated Suns but they had their revenge. “Have you heard the news?†Sortek asked sitting down opposite Ross, speaking to him as an equal, the position of Prince’s Champion had its benefits Ross quietly thought.
“No, I’ve been too busy shutting down the Special Operations and transferring things over to the DMI. Its their theatre now.†Ross said, such was the damage to his command the entire thing had been cashiered by the High Command too much resources were required to rebuild the damaged Davion Guards and replace other lost units. Even his position as Victor’s Prince’s Champion couldn’t save the unit from the cost of rebuilding.
“Well your command has not been the only one to take a fall. The Avalon Hussars have been stricken from the rolls permanently.†Sortek announced he could still barely believe it, the Avalon Hussars had almost to the man sided with the Varnay family.
“What of the Twentieth?†Ross asked, the unit’s name alone would be enough to get it cashiered and the troops transferred. So far it had remained on New Avalon, a unit without name just a number.
“They are transforming into the Third New Avalon Guards RCT†Sortek said with a small smile, it made sense it would keep them together as a unit through this difficult time, it would stop further resignations and defections. The move also added another RCT to the Davion Guards Brigade so of course Sortek would be happy, Ross thought, this lasted a moment as Sortek continued. “The Three New Avalon Guards units are slated for rebuilding to full strength and then will be separated into their own Brigade under the command of Gates Berman, who’s been raised to full Field Marshal.†Sortek said raising back to his feet, Ross followed suit a short visit then? Ross thought. “I’ve been commanded to come down here by the First Prince, Colonel to do a solemn duty.†He said “firstly I want to say I’m sorry, it’s not good for you, you’ll be lucky to see the inside of your Mech once a month.†He said reaching into his pocket.
“Sir?†Ross asked confused, he’d lost his command but it sounded like Sortek was giving him another one.
“Colonel, the Fox’s Teeth though destroyed have won you a position in the AFFS Regimental Command list. They are to be fully expanded to a BattleMech Regiment then a full RCT within five years. And the First Prince wants his Champion to have a unit - Leftenant-General†Sortek said handing him a new set of rank insignia, Ross looked at it a shoulder epaulette with two broad bands and one thin one, the lowest of the general officers. “The new unit will be set up like the Fox’s Teeth, with highly specialised companies and Battalions, they will rarely be assigned alone to a mission but get all the special operations they could ever want. The Fox’s Teeth Company have officially been given a transfer from the Crucis Lancers Brigade, the Seventh are not happy, to the New Avalon Guards Brigade.†Ross was too shocked to say anything other than look at Bishop Sortek wide-eyed “they all feel like that when this happens.†He said leaving Ross’ office heading down the corridor without another word, Ross still stared at the epaulette without saying a word.
coming up some of the fallout of the last few chapters, hope you enjoy
comments, questions always welcome
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Federated Suns Border Worlds
Capellan March, Draconis March
3rd August 3073
Following the public announcement of Clan Nova Cat and the Federated Suns diplomatic relations, and the history behind them, both Capellan Confederation and Draconis Combine forces assault the Federated Suns borders intent on punishing the Federated Suns for their choice of allies.
Though the Capellan attacks along the lines of the old Tikonov region and the Chesterton Trade Federation’s claimed space. Targeting a total of six worlds including Halloran V, Algot, Valexa, New Hessen, Almach and Chesterton itself the Capellan forces are little more than raiding forces and easily repelled by the assembled forces. As Victor Steiner-Davion had specifically ordered the March Lords to withhold sending forces to New Avalon they were in the perfect position to marshal forces against the Capellans and turn the attacks back rapidly.
The Draconis Combine push to claim one system alone - Proserpina. Though a near desolate rock the world is still important to the Combine with several factories and served as a Prefecture capital. The Second Robinson Rangers RCT was based on the world along with the Robinson Training Academy Battalion. Against them the DCMS placed the First Ghost Regiment, along with the Second and Seventh Arkab Legions.
Though a combat tested RCT the Second Robinson was heavily outgunned and after fourteen days of combat the Second Robinson’s commander Major-General Coran DaMateo called on assistance from the FSS Fleet Admiral Corrine Donnings, the Fox-class Corvette, which had been assigned to support the RCT and if necessary to evacuate them from the planet. The Corvette’s commander ordered the ship’s capital gunners to lay down orbital covering fire for the Second to evacuate to DropShips while aerospace fighters and conventional gunners to defend against DCMS fighter cover and break the DropShip enforced orbital blockade. Although the DCMS Admiralty is not happy at the losses incurred to DropShip and fighter forces by AFFS troops, Draconis Combine nobles and military leaders are buoyed by the recapturing of Proserpina counting it as a great victory against the Federated Suns.
Saso City, Mawreddog
Hasek Royal Residence, New Syrtis
Capellan March, Federated Suns
13th August 3073
Although he did not go outside much on New Syrtis, a world stuck in a perpetual winter storm, Baron George Michael Hasek could not help going outside every morning just to feel the New Syrtis wind on his face and the cold in his bones. “This is why I fight†George said quietly looking around the picturesque beauty of his artic Homeworld.
In the woods at a range of just over two hundred metres was a single Infiltrator Mk II Battle Armour suit, painted in winter camouflage, the suit was totally still as it had been for two days waiting for the right moment. The trooper was known only as Tamroy, one of the most elite operators the Federated Suns had ever known, Baron George Hasek had ordered him/her to kill the Capellan leadership in a black operation but swift action by several DMI agents on Sian had stopped the agent carrying out what the Federated Suns considered to be an illegal order.
Upon returning to the Federated Suns First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had personally met with Tamroy and confirmed he did not sanction action against the Capellans instead he had another mission for Tamroy. Elements of the Hasek family had supported House Varnay the First Capellan Dragoons to New Avalon was full evidence of that, although Victor did not believe they were working with House Liao he knew that only a high placed member of the house could have given such an order. Morgan Hasek-Davion was busy with the Star League Defence Force and a personal friend of Victor, the First Prince refused to believe that he was responsible despite his connections to the March. Baron George Michael Hasek however was another story he continually bucked against orders from the First Prince and had almost sparked another Succession War with the orders to kill the Liao family. The actions of the Varnay Family had proven to Victor that hard decisions had to be made to keep his nation and family strong. Tamroy an agent used by the Baron for his own devices was Victor’s perfect tool, which had led to him/her standing here now.
Waiting was key for the perfect shot, in remaining in the same position on a snow covered world like New Syrtis the snow had built up around the suit providing a near perfect natural camoflague, the internal power of the Infiltrator II had kept Tamroy warm while the snow had shielded the suit from the wind of New Syrtis. With Baron Hasek in the rifle’s sights Tamroy did what they always did and without hesitation took the shot, a single nearly silent snap of a firing Magshot Gauss Rifle passed quickly nearly hidden by the wind. Heartbeats later the slug impacted Baron George Michael Hasek’s neck, the slug capable of damaging Mech armour tore through the Baron’s body and he was dead nearly instantly.
Within moments several Cavalier Battle Armour equipped bodyguards moved to help the Baron but he was long dead by the time they got to him. Tamroy waited until the Cavaliers were all in the open, making sure there were no others watching for movement, then began moving away heading into the snow capped mountain ranges of New Syrtis.
An hour later in the New Syrtis mountains moving to their pick-up point Tamroy encountered something very unexpected a green painted Timber Wolf, seventy-five ton Clan OmniMech, decorated with C-Bills. This Mech and its paint scheme were legendary around the Inner Sphere and beyond, the MechWarrior was known as the Bounty Hunter, an assassin for hire and even better at their job than Tamroy was. Their identity was a closely guarded secret, their financial backing was a mystery, their kill rate was nearly one hundred percent.
One contract that had affected that record was a Capellan one. That contract was to kill Tamroy. The Capellans had no patience to wait, while the DMI had recalled Tamroy before the Bounty Hunter could act. A Battle Armour suit had no chance against a heavy OmniMech, even an elite trooper like Tamroy knew they were done for. Using the Infiltrator Mk II’s jump jets Tamroy tried to escape firing several Magshot Gauss Rifle shots into the Timber Wolf but the Bounty Hunter’s deadly aim and the accuracy of the Timber Wolf’s pulse lasers swatted the battle armour suit from the air. With one shot the suit’s jump jets, electronic camouflage systems and motive systems were gone, the suit smashed into the ground disabled and Tamroy was totally vulnerable.
Moving the OmniMech to stand-by mode the Bounty Hunter dropped to the ground wearing a fully encased coolant suit, moving over they finished off Tamroy quickly not making another warrior suffer but doing the duty they needed to do.
A week later the helmet of an Infiltrator Mk II Battle Armour suit and the dead agent’s head are found on Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao’s throne in the Forbidden Palace on Sian. The Capellan Confederation immediately paid double the previous bounty for Tamroy to the Bounty Hunter for completion of the contract. The Chancellor also ordered six of the palace guards executed for allowing the Bounty Hunter to get as far as the throne room, even if it would have meant their deaths to interfere.
Rudolpho
Outworlds Alliance
20th August 3073
In a quiet system of the Outworlds Alliance, near the capital Clan Snow Raven was setting up an enclave on the quiet agricultural planet of Rudolpho with the WarShips Storm Crow, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, command ship of the Storm Crow Naval Star and the Snowflake, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, of the Brim Naval Star in orbit brining supplies and giving general protection.
Though there were light Snow Raven and Outworlds Alliance fighter patrols in the area there was no major presence other than the two idle WarShips. This light presence from the Snow Ravens would be their downfall as three Star Adder WarShips jumped into the system on the 20th. The Snow Raven WarShips were accompanied by enough JumpShips and DropShips to transport and entire Galaxy.
In orbit the Storm Crow and Snowflake stood against the Nygaard, a Sovetskii-Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, supported by the Exodus Sentinel and the Exodus Crusader, both York-class Destroyer Carriers. Unfortunately for the Snow Ravens the Snowflake’s DropShips were all planet side, all were civilian cargo haulers, so they would be no help in this fight.
Between them the Snow Raven crews divided up the three enemy craft, the Storm Crow would battle it’s fellow Sovetskii Soyuz, the Nygaard, while the massive Snowflake would engage the two York-class vessels. Moving out they engaged the Star Adders just outside the orbit of the second planet in the system. With the Storm Crow landing several capital missile strikes on the Nygaard and the Snow Flake gutting three DropShips from the Exodus Sentinel in the first barrage.
The battle continued for sixteen hours as the Star Adder’s expanded Omicron Provisional Galaxy slipped by and assaulted the light Snow Raven defences on Rudolpho. Though the Snowflake’s gunners were able to destroy all the DropShips and the WarShip Exodus Sentinel the odds were too heavily stacked against them and following a fighter attack the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser’s fuel tanks ruptured engulfing the craft in an ever expanding fireball.
Driven on by the destruction of one Snow Raven WarShip the remaining Star Adders launched a full strike on the Storm Crow destroying the Heavy Cruiser in less than one hour, it’s lack of fighter protection and armour proving telling points for the command vessel of the Storm Crow Star.
On the ground the Star Adders six cluster overwhelmed the Snow Raven defences capturing over five thousand lowerclassmen and the native population just following the destruction of the WarShip assets.
Crimson Medical Facility
Crimson, Canopus
Magistracy Commonality, Capellan Confederation
31st August 3073
During a rare visit to Canopus Magestix Naomi Centrella-Liao, Duchess of Canopus, co-leader of the merged Magistracy of Canopus and Capellan Confederation and wife to Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao, gives birth to the couple’s second child Isla Centrella-Liao.
Quietly on Canopus and throughout the Commonality there is a celebration at the birth not only was the child born in the former-Magistracy of Canopus but it was a female child, which has always been preferred to males in the former Magistracy. The Canopian’s have something to connect themselves to with the new line of Centrella-Liao children and a future leader.
Many within the former national capital and royal circles plan to promote Isla’s claim to being Duchess of Canopus when her mother passes, blocking Dao-Shen Liao, the couple’s first child to the position of Duke leading to many to question how accepting many Canopians are of the joining of the Capellan and Canopian nations. For now however Naomi is overjoyed to have a second child, as is Sun-Tzu Liao, his line is secure when he dies one of his children will become Chancellor of the most powerful Capellan nation there has ever been.
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HPG Sites
Across Federated Suns
8th September 3073
After months of planning, delayed by the Varnay Crisis, and in a series of lightning raids the Federated Suns DMI units storm all Alpha Hyper Pulse Generator Sites run by the Department of Communications, though the Star League/ComStar personnel do not resist the Star League council does quietly question the Federated Suns’ actions on higher levels. The Federated Suns High Command informs the Advisory Council on Defiance that NAIS can take care of the operations of all Federated Suns HPGs without help from the SLDF or anyone else. The Star League is ordered to vacate the class-B grid or face the same actions by more SLDF forces.
Within hours NAIS experts arrived at several primary HPG sites taking up operational matters, for years they had studied a half dismantled HPG at NAIS and contact with Clan Nova Cat had added to their understanding of the technology. Although construction of replacement sites lost in combat would be difficult for the Federated Suns to do alone this was not seen as a great difficulty as HPGs were not generally considered a target in general Inner Sphere combat. By the end of the week all of the class-A grid was in NAIS/Nova Cat hands with no drop in efficiency. It would take until the end of September before the Class-B grid was also fully operational, during this time there was grumblings from some corners of the Federated Suns as communications were difficult however Black Box communications kept units upto date with changes in orders.
On Terra the Department of Communications contacted the Star League’s Intelligence Command instructing them to find out how the Federated Suns had taken over their HPG Grid so easily and why?
For their troubles in assisting with the Federated Suns take over the Nova Cats are supplied with raw materials and military technology such as rotary autocannons, autocannon special munitions and screen launcher technology. Though the Nova Cats do not incorporate any of this technology into their military forces they do begin to break down the technologies and share them with the other Clans in an effort to replicate them for Clan technology.
The Federated Suns create their own Department of Communications under Director Julie Forman who reports directly to the First Prince as part of the weekly updates on any issues with the Communication’s grid.
Hasek family Memorial Garden
New Syrtis, Capellan March
Federated Suns
12th September 3073
In front of a gathering of all the nobles and high ranking Commanding-General Duke Morgan Hasek-Davion stepped up onto a small podium in the Hasek family Memorial Garden, it saddened him that no members of the Sandoval Family of the Federated Suns’ Draconis March or any members of the First Prince’s family had attended. He knew that Victor did not hold his son in high regard but still, it was a shame on the Hasek family that Victor had not come.
“It is a solemn duty when a father has to bury his son†Morgan began, he and George had never been close but still family was family. “I and my son were not close, duty took us apart, however we both understood each other and wanted the best for our people here and in the wider Capellan March. Against foes foreign and domestic he strove to better the lives of all citizens of the Federated Suns.†He took a deep breath, though George’s time as leader of the Capellan March had not been as torments as others through the ages he had done great things. “Under the rule of Baron George Hasek the Capellan March saw the rebirth of the Star League based within its borders, he led led the Federated Suns into the remains of the Sarna March where unrest and chaos created by others had caused so much pain and suffering. He repulsed attacks on the Pleiades Cluster and defended against an unwarranted attack on this system’s shipyards, he also saw Ares taken from our longest enemy.†Morgan noticed the Capellan Confederation representatives look uneasy at the remembrance of that fact, though the Capellans had taken Tikonov in the exchange and eventually retaken the world it was still a major feat for the Federated Suns to have accomplished. Although credit was probably due more to Reinhart Steiner than George, the Baron had been the March’s leader and could claim some credit.
“All the peoples of the Capellan March have been secure under George Hasek they have known that he has their best interests at heart, and though I will not be returning to command the Capellan March.†He noticed several surprised looks “the March will be in the capable hands of Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek until George’s daughter Kim is ready to take her rightful place as Baroness and if she chooses, Field Marshal, of the region.†He said looking over at George’s six year old standing by her mother head lowered. “I will remain on New Syrtis for the time being, until the line of command is complete, before travelling onto Defiance for the final events of the Third Martial Olympiad.†He said stepping down from the podium moving away, once out of earshot of the crowd of mourners he turned to Nathaniel who was near by “I want to see everything you have on my son’s death.â€
“Yes, sire†Nathaniel said looking to his uncle, he knew when not to mess with the Duke of New Syrtis, Morgan wanted to know what was going on and wouldn’t be stopped for anything. From
Outback
Crucis March, Federated Suns
24th September 3073
Following the unrest on New Avalon and the Federated Suns opening diplomatic relations with Clan Nova Cat the worlds of Broken Wheel, Wetumpka, Morven and Memphis all break away from the Federated Suns to join the Filtvelt Coalition. Although First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion contacts the leaders of each of these worlds personally to voice his disapproval of this move the AFFS is not involved militarily instead they withdraw all assets owned by the nation from each worlds defences leaving them with the barest protection.
On Broken Wheel the Broken Wheel Training Battalion and Militia refuse to remain on the world with while they do not serve the AFFS, the units have more loyalty to their home nation and the AFFS than the newly formed Filtvelt Coalition or their homeworld.
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Third Martial Olympiad Final Competition
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
4th October 3073
The crowd was hushed as Loremaster Brian Pryde walked forward from the Jade Falcons, he was a virtual unknown before the competition a ristar in the Falcons but little else. During this entire Martial Olympiad the Clans in general had been on top, showing off their skill in piloting, gunnery and teamwork, the Jade Falcons especially had proved they were the best.
Not only were the Jade Falcons led by someone new they also had a lot of new designs on show including Brian Pryde’s ride a brand-new Jupiter Assault BattleMech, a new ferocious standard BattleMech design with extreme amounts of range and firepower capable of destroying any type of target.
The Jade Falcon warrior walked up onto the podium to accept his award for defeating Clan Wolf in the final competition and for winning the competition overall from Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion, as he climbed the steps he smiled, the spheroid commander of the Second Star League would be giving him the award a trueborn Clansmen who had defeated all comers. The sham Star League proving that despite being created to contain the Clans they could not stop their advancement, not had the Clans time in the Inner Sphere dulled their skills.
“Combatants and Spectators, although this years competition has been marred by the trouble here in the Federated Suns, I am proud to present you with the leader of the victorious faction Loremaster Brian Pryde of Clan Jade Falcon!†Morgan Hasek-Davion called out trying to smile, it made him sick to have to award a Clan the award, it had taken only three competitions for the Clans to show their dominance and the Inner Sphere was sorely lacking behind them in so many ways. He turned and handed the trophy a golden Orion BattleMech, the same used by Aleksandr Kerensky when he was Commanding-General of the first Star League Defence Force, set above a wooden stand. The Jade Falcon warrior took the trophy inspecting it before turning to the crowd.
“I accept this trophy for what it really stands for, Clan superiority and the success of our breeding. This was but a game, the next time you see us if will not be the case.†He said and with that stepping down from the podium, returning to his victorious Clan-kin, the Jade Falcons rained supreme.
With the end of the Jade Falcon’s speech Morgan Hasek-Davion moved back to the podium “And with this Martial Olympiad we had a new competition to show the skill and pride of a new form of competition, the power of the WarShip.†The Commanding-General said “so this year perhaps it is right that the group that have used WarShips most effectively for centuries has been victorious, please allow me to hand the victory to Clan Snow Raven and the crew of the Lord Death.†He said with that Star Commodore Brent Crow, commander of the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, that had won the battle stood up and moved towards the podium to collect their prize a plaque inscribed with the Lord Death’s victory, the Lord Death’s crew would also be allowed for a heraldic pattern to be painted on the bow of the WarShip, assuming the Khan of Clan Snow Raven agreed, it had been a tradition of the original Star League but the Clans had not joined the Star League. As he collected his prize Brent Crow smiled but said nothing, it was especially good for him as the Lord Death was originally a Star League vessel before it became a Snow Raven vessel. It was more than fitting for a previous SLDF vessel to gain another award.
From behind the podium Governor of Terra Gavin Dow stepped forward towards the podium, “Ladies and Gentlemen, the Star League Defence Force has chosen to follow the same path as ComStar before it. We will strive to provide each of the Succession Lords with a pair of Artemis-class Diplomatic Escort Vessels, assuming there are no major conflicts of the Inner Sphere.†He said with a brief smile “in keeping with this plan today the Sandhurst passes into the hand of the Federated Suns Admiralty and soon the Berlin will pass into the hands of the Lyran Alliance. We will continue to produce these vessels in the Terra system until all the Inner Sphere has craft to bring peace.†There was a roar around the chamber at the Star League’s move.
“And so brings the end of the Third Martial Olympiad, please have a safe journey to your home systems, once you leave this place to where every they may be.†Morgan Hasek-Davion said stepping forward once more, for three years they would have to wait until they could prove themselves once more.
Vehicle Proving Grounds
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
8th October 3073
Although all eyes of the Clans and the Inner Sphere have been on the drama and excitement of the Martial Olympiad Clan Nova Cat also had eyes on New Haiti as another fruit of their vehicle development program came into being. The Predator Attack VTOL Craft. Weighing in at thirty tons the craft is capable of speeds reaching almost two hundred kilometres per hour the craft is designed to hunt and kill infantry, battle armour and vehicles as well as threaten light vehicles. Armed with an array of six machine guns of various calibre mounted in stubby wings forward, these are supported by a pair of Extended-Range Medium Lasers for anti-armour support and a ventral mounted three-tube Advanced Tactical Missile Launcher with plenty ammo.
Eager to prove the worthiness of this design the Nova Cat scientists in charge of the development prove the VTOL’s worth by using the two prototypes to destroy several captured pirate armoured vehicles and VTOLs in rapid succession. Impressed with the craft’s performance they are immediately added to the Nova Cat Touman with old Donar Attack Helicopters retired from service or traded to other nearby powers.
Several Predators are added to Tau Galaxies TO&E in the next few days. Throughout the Nova Cat’s Den Nova Cat Galaxies begin to request rights to send troops to New Haiti and challenge Tau Galaxy for its right to garrison New Haiti. The Nova Cat Touman has been at peace too long, they are beginning to itch for a fight.
Davion Royal Palace
Avalon Island, Albion, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
16th October 3073
Rarely did First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion stand on ceremony and sit in state on the Davion throne wearing the full uniform of the leader of the Federated Suns however this was one such occasion. Today would mark a very special moment in his term as First Prince and a warning call to all the other Succession Lords. Standing in front of Victor was General Maeve Wolf, commander of the Wolf’s Dragoons Mercenary Brigade, Victor had seen tapes of Colonels Jamie Wolf and his brother Joshua when they had first presented the Wolf’s Dragoons to his father Hanse Davion sixty-eight years before.
Back then the Dragoons had been a unit that had appeared from nowhere with four reinforced regiments of troops ready to fight for the Federated Suns, no-one had known who they were and what their arrival meant for the Inner Sphere, they were the Vanguard of the Clans a menace that changed the face of the Inner Sphere.
Today was different however, they knew exactly what the Wolf’s Dragoons were, the best equipped and most elite mercenary force in the Inner Sphere although recently they had struggled more than they had since the end of the Fourth Succession War. With mercenary trade almost completely dried up on their homeworld Outreach, mainly because of the Dragoons own actions the Dragoons had been forced to look at other avenues for cash today Victor knew exactly why Maeve was here. “First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, leader of the Federated Suns, I General Maeve Wolf, commander of the Wolf’s Dragoons Mercenary Brigade, bring Alpha and Beta Regiments of the brigade supported by Zeta and Wolf Spider Battalions and by the WarShip Alexander to serve as our contract was agreed. We are at your order.†She said in a very formal voice, everything was to be done in a ritualised way the DMI and MIIO had holo-cameras all around the room recording everything that was happening. Soon these pictures would be beamed all across the Inner Sphere, everyone would know that the Federated Suns and Wolf’s Dragoons were together once more.
“General Maeve Wolf, I accept your Wolf’s Dragoons into the service of the Federated Suns for five years. May your time here bring you honour and victory†he said completing his half of the ceremony.
“Honour and Victory†Maeve barked snapping to a salute, Victor in turn raised to his feet and returned the salute. Maeve lowered her salute bowed slightly and left the room, Victor in turn held the salute until Maeve has left the room before sitting back down on the thrown a small grin on his face. The Dragoons were within his service for five years, five years the entire Inner Sphere would cringe at the thought of the Dragoons and Federated Suns together.
For their first duty however the Dragoons would be less that thrilled they were tasked with training and cadre duty on New Avalon with the four rebuilding New Avalon Guards RCTs, in the long term this would help them fit in with the Federated Suns troops and meld them together to form a cohesive unit it would save lives and make for easier battles despite it being a little tedious.
Deployment
Spaceport, Tara
Northwind, Star League Protectorate
22nd October 3073
Although Northwind was now part of the Star League Protectorate like Outreach the Northwind Highlanders, like the Wolf’s Dragoons, were still mercenaries and still bound to honour contracts, pay bills and live from day to day in the war torn Inner Sphere. At the spaceport at the capital city Tara Lieutenant-Colonel Jeremiah Rose watched as the last of his Renegades mounted up into the lead Fortress-class DropShip his own Warhawk Assault OmniMech had been loaded over an hour before. Beside him Colonel Edward Stenn commander of the First Kearny Highlanders Regiment, the senior Colonel of the Highlanders and leader of the First for many years. He was nearing retirement and was unlikely to be deployed off Northwind again “How do ya feel Colonel? Yer first time out as a Northwind Regimental Commander.†He asked looking over at Jeremiah.
“I’ve commanded men before, sir†Jeremiah said, he’d commanded men in probably heavier combat than anyone on Northwind during the Battle of Tukayyid as a member of ComStar. Perhaps it was not a unit of the scale of the Renegades but still it was a tough fight. “Though I know that now I am representing Northwind as well as my unit, it’s a whole new responsibility.†He said believing it was what the Colonel wanted to hear.
“May I make a suggestion to ya Colonel?†Stenn asked, seeing Jeremiah’s worry.
“Please sirâ€
“Forget aboot Northwind and aboot the Highlanders reputation†Stenn said looking the Lieutenant-Colonel right in the eye “A’ve seen yer battle record an’ I know you’ll do us proud. Just keep doing what your Black Thorns did an’ we won’t have a problem.†He said extending his hand which Jeremiah shook “good luck, and knock those Clanners dead.â€
“Gladly sir†Jeremiah said before breaking the handshake saluting and turning to leave, the Northwind Renegades were ready to leave. Moving down the ramp Jeremiah stepped into a small cart that drove him into the Fortress’ main bay. Five minutes later the mighty DropShip’s main engines ignited and the vessel rose into the sky, moments later five more DropShips rose into the sky behind the Fortress heading to rendezvous with a JumpShip charging its interstellar drive near Northwind’s star. Their mission was simple a year long garrison/training/raiding in the Lyran Alliance fighting on the Clan Jade Falcon border.
NOTE
Successful mercs should never be out of a job, and in this timeline there is plenty work for them
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More!!!
First Prince’s Office
FSS New Avalon (Whirlwind II-class Destroyer)
Tikonov, Capellan March, Federated Suns
4th November 3073
The time of the next Whitting Conference was almost upon the leaders of the Inner Sphere once more First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion was travelling away from home for the Star League but this time it wasn’t so far. This year the Star League Advisory Council and the current First Lord, his younger brother Archon Peter Steiner-Davion, had chosen to reopen Unity City closed for the centuries since the fall of the First Star League. Meaning the leaders of the Inner Sphere would have less of a distance to travel for future conferences.
First priorities came first however as the internal Federated Suns trouble came first. In front of him was Field Marshal Carver Felsner commander of the Department of Military Intelligence Division of the AFFS “Field Marshal, have we had any successes with these Spartans?†Victor asked, as far as he knew they had nothing but it was always good to check.
“Negative sire, we have no more information on the SPT-NX Spartan other than some basic combat characteristics and that in every combat situation they have been encountered in we believe they are the same unit. And that they have not been defeated.â€
“Understood, how would you like to get your hands on one of these Mechs maybe the pilot too?†Victor asked looking up at him from his desk, the Field Marshal smiled broadly. “Then I have a job for your people first.â€
“We are always ready to serve, sire.â€
“Good, I need your people to contact the Bounty Hunter and his people. I know the DMI maintains links to his network.â€
“The Bounty Hunter? Sire, my people can hunt down these BattleMechs all we need is a location. Also the last we checked the Bounty Hunter is under the contract of the Capellans or the Free Worlds League.â€
“I agree, Field Marshal, and I have every confidence in your people that if necessary your people could disable and capture the entire company if you needed to. However, these people most likely originate out with Federated Suns borders in fact I am convinced they do.†He noticed the Field Marshal was about to speak again but he cut him off “and yes I know the DMI have conducted operations out with the Federated Suns before and will continue to do so if it is required.†He said the Field Marshal nodded “however if these people resisted and if you were forced to fight in the open then we cannot afford Federated Suns personnel, even secret operatives, to be caught fighting in another state. The Bounty Hunter affords secrecy and doesn’t care about borders or laws.†The Field Marshal understood there were political considerations to be looked at before operations began.
“We will contact them in the next few days.â€
“Thank you Field Marshal, ensure the Bounty Hunter receives their usual accommodation.†Victor said Felsner nodded and saluted his First Prince, Victor returned the salute. Twenty minutes later a Vampire Special Operations DropShip released from docking ports on the side of the destroyer, the DropShip was one of the smallest ever built massing in at four hundred tons, it had fallen out of use over the centuries and only recently returned to service with the AFFS as a special operations vessel held under DMI supervision.
Star League Conference Centre
Unity City, North-West America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
12th November 3073
Situated on the west of North America in what used to be the old-United States of America’s Washington State the Unity City, or the Court of the Star League, had been the jewel of the Terran Hegemony and of the Star League. Unfortunately it also made the city a major target for aggression and a good example for those wanting to hurt the spoilt people of Terra.
When Stefan Amaris had launched his Coup de’tat against the Cameron Family seizing control of Terra he had first used a nuclear weapon to destroy the Royal Black Watch Regiment to the North West Salt Plains the explosion had blackened the north and west of the city killing millions. At almost the same time Fort Baker and Fort Cameron, known as the Citidel, had also been hit with nuclear weapons. Following this half the city had been flooded by mud-slides following torrential rain.
With Stefan Amaris unwilling to do anything hundreds of thousands had died through starvation and disease as the conditions in the city grew worse and worse. During the occupation by Amaris forces more damage was done to the city as the Rim Worlds Republic forces had hunted down Cameron loyalists tearing down entire city blocks to kill the insurgents.
The Liberation of Terra brought peace to the planet but at a heavy cost, the Star League troops liberating the world had been forced to engage Rim Worlds Republic forces inside the cities of Terra literally fighting building-to-building, block-to-block, causing yet more damage. The final push from the Liberation Forces led by Commanding-General Aleksandr Kerensky had caused yet more damage as Amaris loyal forces didn’t care what they targeted trying to cause as much destruction and chaos as possible.
Following the fall of Amaris and the disillusion of the Star League Council there had been a mass exodus from the city as civilians no longer wanted to live in a city that was full of death and destruction. Looters had taken over the city searching out any riches as the SLDF pulled out, when Director of the Department of Communications Jerome Blake had taken over Terra following the Exodus he had used the forces available to him to hunt down the looters and seal the City for all time. Preserving what remained as a reminder of the Coup and the fall of Humanities Golden Age, few people on Terra even cared about the city and it had slowly become heavily overgrown as the area was overtaken by nature.
With the reestablishment of the Star League the Advisory Council had chosen to reopen the city as soon as Terra had joined the Star League Protectorate. The first thing that had been decided was it would be an Inner Sphere wide operation. Legions of IndustrialMechs and support vehicles manufactured from across the Inner Sphere and companies from every corner of the Inner Sphere were hired and moved to Terra under Star League Defence Force employ. The influx of visiting workers had improved Terra’s economy as well as moved forward Star League goals which helped a world still recovering from the wounds of the Word of Blake and ComStar’s battle for control.
It had taken nearly a year but the Whitting Conference Centre, on a scale worthy of Unity City, had been built and was ready for the Star League Conference - two weeks before the Succession Lords had arrived. The Conference Centre was fully tested and ready for the beginning of the Whitting Conference with Archon Peter Steiner-Davion stepping up to the podium to open the Conference as the standing First Lord.
“My fellow Lords welcome to Terra†Peter started looking around the table he could see his Brother Victor, leader of the Federated Suns, Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao, leader of the Capellan Confederation, Prime Minister Kai Allard-Liao of the St Ives Compact, Warlord Minoru Kurita, leader of the Draconis Combine the council of the Star League. Beside him sat Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion, the oldest man in the room he was from their parent’s generation but he easily kept pace with them all and knew how to keep every single one of them, including Sun-Tzu Liao, in check. When Peter had first seen him on Terra he’d noticed that the recent death of his son George had aged the Commanding-General many years, he looked weary tired of the politics and war, despite this he still had a commanding presence over the Council and would have the final say if things got out of hand.
“It has been many years since the leaders of the Succession Lords were here on Terra†Peter continued, everyone knew of that event when while marrying Melissa Steiner, heir to the thrown of the Lyran Commonwealth, Hanse Davion, leader of the Federated Suns, had started the Fourth Succession war. Peter’s parents wedding forty-eight years ago, before any of the ruling Succession Lords were alive “it was before the Clan Invasion before the Second Star League then was a dream even though not it is two decades old. All because of the efforts of the people in this room for it to work and to be a power for all of the Inner Sphere, as it once was.â€
“Terra has changed, we have changed, but the Inner Sphere remains the same, the threats against us remain, and now threats will no doubt rear their heads in time.†He said looking to each of them, he wasn’t a doomsdayist, he was a realist and he wanted the others to be just as grounded. “The Star League was originally conceived as a golden age of mankind, not just a military force to support the Succession Lords wars.†He noticed that Sun-Tzu Liao was yawning as if to show that he did not care for what happened, as far as he was concerned it was his vote to lose.
“Remember what this organisation means and continue the work that has been started before you, the Star League University on Thorin, the Renovation and Rebuilding of this City, the Martial Olympiad, the continued expansion of the League and the notion of bringing peace to the Inner Sphere, thank you.†He said finishing, hopefully he’d gotten through to them, he noticed approving nods from both his brother and Morgan, he’d done the best he could for the Star League. There was nothing else anyone could ask of him.
“I’d like to call for a vote on the New First Lord Immediately, the sooner we can be done with this the sooner we can go home.†Sun-Tzu said completely breaking protocol, Peter rose from his chair to answer Sun-Tzu.
“Chancellor, first there are affairs of the Star League to be undertaken, you will wait until it is time for the vote.†Peter said looking round the other Succession Lords “if there is nothing else then we will adjourn this meeting until this afternoon.
Star League Conference Centre
Unity City, North-West America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
13th November 3073
Through the course of the day and into the next the decision was made between the Succession Lords that the High Command facility would move from its position on Kittery to Sandhurst, England in the British Isles. Unlike the original Star League which had been commanded from the massive Citidel complex outside Unity City they decided that the two would be in separate locations. Sandhurst had always been a massive military training complex in the history of the British Isles and that had continued into the Star League and during ComStar’s time on Terra. The Word of Blake had begun massive fortification and upgrading of Sandhurst which the Star League had quietly continued, it would be a grand command complex when completed more than capable of controlling the Star League Defence Force’s movements anywhere in the Inner Sphere. The facilities on Kittery would remain as an SLDF training world under Federated Suns stewardship however the real power of the Star League would be on Terra where it belonged.
The next day bigger decisions were made. Firstly it was decided that the Taurian Concordat’s suspended vote was to be overruled with the nation receiving their full vote back. The Taurian Concordat leaders Protector Brenda Calderon and Baron Cham Kithrong agree to sign the Ares Convention for the first time in the Taurian Concordat’s history, taking a major step for the Concordat towards peace and towards acceptance by the other States of the Inner Sphere and Periphery.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, like yesterday today we have seen great steps towards strengthening the Star League Defence Force†Governor of Terra Gavin Dow said addressing the Succession Lords, considering how Chancellor Liao had reacted to a delayed vote for the new First Lord the choice had been made to have Gavin lead the second day’s meetings and hopefully steer things away from the First Lord’s position. “And today we take another step forward for the Star League Protectorate and the Star League Defence Force.†He said “today I would like to propose the growing Star League Protectorate to be given a voice at this Council.†He said looking round the tables there were a couple of scoffs at the very idea of power to a Protectorate but there was also a couple of nods. “With Terra, Northwind, Outreach and most worlds of the former Chaos March part of the Star League Protectorate I believe it is time that these worlds gained a voice at this council.â€
“Just to give yourself a little more power eh Gavin?†Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao said very informally forgetting rank or status, as Governor of Terra Gavin Dow hadn’t expected such a cavalier attitude towards his position.
“I rule Terra only through democratic vote from the citizens of this world. I represent the people of the Protectorate through my position of Terra, however if they chose any world’s representative could lead the Protectorate. If you think this is my power ploy Chancellor then I’d expect your vote will be correspondingly fit this belief.†He said “I do however ask for such a vote?â€
“Well I will play this little game with you Governor. The Capellan Confederation vote no, there is no need for a new Terran Hegemony.†Sun-Tzu said harking back to the nation at the centre of the first Star League, an obvious but likely effective scare tactic. The Terran Hegemony had been the elitist nation of the first Star League with its people gaining the benefits of their position before everyone else, when the Succession Wars had begun following the fall of the first Star League the nations surrounding them had torn into the pampered worlds of the Hegemony causing misery for its people and devastation in its wake. Many former Hegemony worlds had been utterly destroyed or made uninhabitable as their populations stubbornly refused to bow down to the Succession States, or were caught in the crossfire between states.
“What the Capellan Chancellor does not see is that this will not be a new Terran Hegemony†the Prime Minister of the St Ives Compact Duke Kai Allard-Liao said, Sun-Tzu looked more than a little upset that Kai, the leader of a break away Capellan State, had been the first to speak up after him. “There are no Cameron’s to run this Star League and to have their citizens higher than the rest, the Star League Protectorate only wants a voice at this council instead of being in what is effectively a military dictatorship. The St Ives Compact votes yes†Kai said nodding in Gavin’s direction, another small state would hopefully bring slightly more balance to the council vote.
“The Lyran Alliance will also vote yes†Archon Peter Steiner-Davion said standing up briefly he did not elaborate on his answer and sat down again.
“The Federated Suns will not be involved in deciding the fate of another nation, at least not at this table.†First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion said with a small smile before sitting back down, the Federated Suns was a militaristic nation, if he showed he was supporting a democratic nation then his rule over the Federated Suns may be under threat, given recent difficulties it was one area he would gladly avoid.
“The Draconis Combine will reject this proposal, there is no need for another break-away state to gain power, there are enough faces at this council.†Warlord Minoru Kurita said the Draconis Combine had plenty of experience with break-away states in that of the now-defunct Free Rasalhague Republic, there was no way they would support such a move by the Protectorate, Gavin had expected such a response. This only left the Taurian Concordat, only just regained its voting rights.
“The Taurian Concordat and its people with vote yes, all voices of the Sphere and Periphery deserve a voice at this council. We are glad to welcome you into the Star League, may your time in this body be prosperous for your people and our own.†Protector Brenda Calderon said very eloquently closing the voting, the Star League Protectorate officially was a voting member of the council with a one vote majority.
“I now call for a temporary recess until this afternoon’s council meetings.†Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion said standing at his SLDF representative table and now unofficially the only member of the council with no vote. Morgan’s position would still carry a veto on many matters and count as a tie-breaker in event of an equal vote however now all the others had equal power.
Airborne tour over New York City
North American Continent, Terra
Star League Protectorate
13th November 3073
During the fighting between the Word of Blake, ComStar, the Allied Mercenary Command and the SLDF New York City had been badly damaged by conventional and nuclear weapons. The massive city spread far and wide now covering more than half of the North American Eastern seaboard however it was largely a ghost town at the moment as survivors struggled to salvage what they could and begin to rebuild. Star League constructions teams continued to try and clear flooding from large parts of the city much of which was toxic and even radioactive. It would be years until the city was back on its feet however the damage done had become something of a tourist attraction as people wanted to see how much damage had been done by such a brutal and recent conflict.
This particular tour was a very special one Danai Centrella-Davion and her six-year old son Burton were members of the group observing the ruins and remains of Manhattan Island which had partially sunk during the attack. Looking out the windows they could see that the entire island was flooded, cracked and broken the result of the Word of Blake’s liberal use of Weapons of Mass Destruction in an effort to destroy what they could not have, the ultimate in literally “scorched earth" tactics. Suddenly Danai felt a cold chill run down her spine almost like she was being watched teams try to clear flooding down below, turning away she saw her younger sister Naomi Centrella-Liao standing less than a foot away with her three-year old son Dao-Shen Liao standing beside her, Danai could see the Chinese-features in him the legacy of the boys father Sun-Tzu Liao. However it was her younger sister she was caught by, it had been so long “Naomi, it is good to see youâ€
“That would be ‘Magestix’ wouldn’t it Duchess?†She hissed sure enough Danai could see she wore the crown of the Magestix, although the Magistracy of Canopus was no-longer a separate nation the her husband had allowed Naomi to keep the title of Magestix, no doubt because Danai still laid claim to the title of Duchess of Canopus.
“Of course, Magestix, my apologies†Danai said bowing her head slightly she’d play her sister’s game for now. “How are you? Naomiâ€
“I’m happy, big sister, enjoying my position and my families position. And you still enjoying your exile?†She asked rubbing in the fact that Danai had not seen her homeworld since long before the beginning of the Clan Wars, nearly twenty years before.
“I am happy with my choice and with my family†she said coldly, Naomi had changed since they were last together.
While the two sisters had an uncomfortable reunion on a smaller level Burton and Dao-Shen were also having a less than comfortable meeting, although they were technically cousins by the blood of their mothers neither was happy to see the other. The Capellan child though smaller than his Davion cousin was not intimidated he walked over to Burton looking up at him “my father will destroy your father†Dao-Shen said quietly.
“More like my father will do what my grand-father did and cut your nation in half in one war. Or maybe he’ll leave it to me.†Burton Davion said smirking as he reminded Dao-Shen of what Hanse Davion had done to the Capellan Confederation during the Fourth Succession War. And what the larger nation was capable of in the future.
“We shall see, perhaps it will be my turn†Dao-Shen said turning away, walking with Naomi without saying another word. Burton looked up to see his mother watching her sister walk away a small tear running down her cheek.
“Not how we planned, mother?†He whispered
“No son, but expected.†She whispered back turning round looking at the ruined island again, just like her family she thought, all because of the choices they had made it would have broken their mother‘s heart but there was nothing Danai could do about it.
I couldn't help this scene, it had to be included, hope you enjoy
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Star League Conference Centre
Unity City, North-West America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
13th November 3073
That afternoon’s conference session began with the acceptance of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby being accepted into the Star League Council. The event passed by a simple vote should really, in hindsight, been passed with greater ceremony as it is the first former Free Worlds League state to be accepted into the Star League. So far the nation had kept clear of the inter-fighting that continued between the other FWL states led by Captain-General Jeremy Brett and Duchess Therese Marik it was seen as the most stable FWL nation and best hope for reforming the League. The Duchy, like other new states, would not have a vote on the council for the first three years until Star League Intelligence Corps personnel check out their accounts and dealings.
The Council then moved onto the matter of voting the next First Lord, the person who would lead the Star League for the next three years. To start the voting Victor Steiner-Davion stood up at his table representing the Federated Suns “It is time that the smaller nations of this Council were represented - I would like to nominate Prime Minister Kai Allard-Liao, Duke of St Ives, to be leader of the Star League Council.â€
“Duke Allard-Liao†Governor Gavin Dow said addressing the St Ives leader “do you accept this nomination?†Despite the Star League Protectorate gaining a vote at these sessions the other lords and the Commanding-General had agreed that Dow could continue to speak as Chairperson of the meetings. None of them really had issue with him, his history hidden by ComStar, he’d only recently come to the fore in politics.
“I do†Kai added slightly surprised to be nominated but more than happy to take on the nomination.
“Is there a second?†Dow asked looking at the other delegates.
“The Lyran Alliance will support the St Ives Compact’s nomination.†Archon Peter Steiner-Davion said supporting his brother Victor and the St Ives Compact.
“Trust them†Sun-Tzu whispered referring to the Steiner-Davion family line support of each other and the St Ives Compact, as it had always been. The Federated Commonwealth was dead however the Steiner-Davion family it seemed was as strong as ever.
“Is there another nomination?â€
“The Taurian Concordat will support the Capellan Confederation for the position of First Lord.†Protector Brenda Calderon answered the challenge.
“And the Draconis Combine will support them also†Warlord Minoru Kurita said before Sun-Tzu could even accept the nomination, even Sun-Tzu was surprised by the instant support. Perhaps Kurita saw what Sun-Tzu had the Steiner-Davion voting block holding sway.
“Does the Capellan Chancellor agree with this nomination?†Dow asked Sun-Tzu Liao looking over at the Capellan table.
“I do†Sun-Tzu replied
“Then with the votes tied at two a piece†he said continuing on assuming who nominated a nation would vote for that nation. “The Star League Protectorate will swing the vote.†He said using the power that had newly been granted to the Star League Protectorate “the Star League Protectorate will vote for the St Ives Compact. Duke Kai Allard-Liao you will be our new First Lord and will serve for the next three years, will you accept.â€
“I will accept†he said
“Then this Star League Conference is at an…â€
“No it is not at an end!!†Sun-Tzu Liao screamed leaping to his feet “This Conference, this entire Star League is a sham, I withdraw the Capellan Confederation from this Conference and from this League. We stand alone against you all, any foreign troops within our borders will be destroyed, you are all damned.†He said storming out of the Conference room stunning all the Lords gathered.
“If there are no more issues then this conference is at an end. Please note that the SLS Invincible and SLS Covenant are in system overseeing proceedings, a strict no-combat policy will be enforced.†Dow explained, none of the other delegates said a thing instead began moving out of the room ending the conference on a low note. The Confederation’s place alone was worrisome to say the least. Following through on his threat to withdraw from the League Sun-Tzu Liao officiailly withdrew his nation’s membership with the Star League within the hour, before leaving Terra immediately.
Star Adder Occupied Rudolpho
Raven Alliance, Periphery
5th December 3073
After four months of occupation for Rudolpho by Clan Star Adder liberation forces from Clan Snow Raven and from the Outworlds Alliance arrived supported by the WarShip. Sitting in system the Star Adder’s Nygaard, a battle damaged Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, the Exodus Crusader, a York-class Carrier and the six clusters of Omicron Provisional Galaxy stood defending the world from the Snow Raven WarShips Mount Batton, a Texas-class Battleship, the Nestling, a Carrack-class Transport and the Black Justice, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, Alpha Galaxy and the Outworlds Alliance’s First Alliance Air Wing all commanded by Khan Lynn McKenna leader of the Snow Ravens.
The Snow Raven’s Black Justice moved ahead of the other two ships “This is Star Commodore Louise Siegel commander of the Black Justice†the ship’s commander broadcast to the Star Adder vessels in system “on behalf of the Snow Raven Clan and the Outworlds Alliance I declare a Trial of Possession for safe passage in they system for the Snow Raven Clan. I bid this vessel, its aerospace fighters and its four attached DropShips.â€
“The Exodus Crusader will refute this challenge, the Star Adder Clan will command rule in this system for now and forever. I bid this vessel, its aerospace fighters and two DropShips.†The commander of the Exodus Crusader answered.
“I bid away this vessel’s air wing and two of our Union-C DropShips. I will also deploy our Titan‘s fighters as binaries instead of as Trinaries.†Louise added loosing the ability to use of the vessel’s internal air wing twenty OmniFighters in total. That was not too bad for them since the Black Justice carried two Titan Aerospace Carriers and two Union-C type DropShips on this trip.
“I that is our final bidâ€
“Our bid is also final.†Louise Siegel said turning to her officers “launch the Raven’s Wings and Raven’s Talons and have them move into formation and deploy fighters as necessary one star to join the rest of our forces, have all internal fighters and both other DropShips join the other ships we will collect them after this battle is over.†she said her officers nodded on the Star Adder ship the crew were also preparing for combat with the DropShips removing themselves from the Exodus Crusader.
It would be an interesting fight the Black Justice, two Titan-class Aerospace carriers and forty fighters against the Exodus Crusader, two Broadsword-class DropShips and fifty fighters. The Black Justice was heavier and better armed and their Titan-class DropShips were better armed than the Broadsword, the Exodus Crusader was also faster and heavier armed.
Accelerating at 1.5G towards the Exodus Crusader the forward capital missile banks of the Black Justice engaged the incoming Broadswords three missiles each. The first three Killer Shark Capital Missiles broke the back of the first Broadsword but just damaged the second DropShip. In between the two WarShips fighters engaged in mass dogfights with the Titan’s from the Black Justice backing up their fighters showing their strength. The WarShip’s main guns began to engage Naval Particle Projection Cannons, Naval Autocannons and Capital Naval Missiles crossed the gap between the vessels. Though the Snow Raven gunners were more accurate than the Star Adders the Exodus Crusader’s the armour was also heavier allowing them to stick in the battle longer however the Black Justice turned showing the Exodus Crusader its broadside of sixteen Naval autocannons and three capital missile launchers, the accurate Snow Raven gunners breached the armour boring into the internal areas of the vessel breaching the hull. With its hull breached the Exodus Crusader was no longer combat capable, its crew more intent on saving their ship than fighting off the Snow Ravens. Under the guns of the Black Justice the Star Adder commander surrendered the battle to the Snow Raven ground forces. Whoever won the battle would also win the Exodus Crusader because of its severely damaged state.
The Snow Ravens Alpha Galaxy and the First Alliance Air Wing then moved in system escorted by the Nestling and the Mountbatton. The journey in system was uneventful with the Star Adders sticking to engagement rules and allowing the Snow Ravens free passage. With the whole Alpha Galaxy, and the First Alliance Air Wing, at her command the and the two WarShips escorting Khan Lynn McKenna offered the Star Adder ground forces a batchall minimising losses, the Star Adder Commander Tor Cathis refused point blank informing the they would defend the world with everything they had.
As a nod to the Outworlds Alliance troops with them the Three Regimentals of the First Alliance Air Wing led the attack and insertion onto Rudolpho. The Star Adder fighters rose to engage them and the DropShips of the Avellar Guard ground forces. Though the First Alliance Air Wing fought well destroying most of Omicron Galaxy’s fighters and cleared landing zones for the first DropShips, the Avellar Guard then landed the Command Mech Battalion leading the way supported by two battalions of infantry. Before the Outworlds Alliance troops can be overrun the Snow Ravens combat-drop their entire Alpha Galaxy on top of the battling Omicron Galaxy and Avellar Guards. Through twelve hours of combat Omicron Galaxy is all but wiped out its troops forced into a retreat, less than a cluster is able to make it back to their DropShips and to rendezvous with the still heavily damaged Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser Nygaard in orbit. The Nygaard and the remaining Star Adder ground forces were escorted out of the system by the Mount Batton while the Exodus Crusader was taken as isorla by the Snow Raven forces.
Spica Mountains, secret landing zone
St Ives Compact/Federated Suns Border
14th December 3073
In the quiet of the night in the mountains far from any civilisation the first DropShips of Clan Sea Fox’s Khanate the Fox’s Whelps land on the St Ives Compact/Federated Suns border world of Spica. Fortunately for the Fox’s Whelps and the Federated Suns Spica was a sparsely populated under developed world allowing them to land without incident or detection. Deeper in the system at a pirate point the Cho Polo, a Volga-class Transport vessel, was stationed at a pirate point. Aboard the vessel was the rest of the Fox’s Whelps team that would build the trade base and factory in the world’s mountains and the rest of the Thirty-sixth Cruiser Cluster that would defend the Fox’s Whelps assets on the planet.
Representing the Federated Suns in his first duty as commander of the Capellan March was Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek, while representing the Fox’s Whelps Khanate was Damien Kalasa leader of that faction of the Sea Fox Clan. Also present was the pregnant Duchess Cassandra Allard-Liao representing the St Ives Compact, her brother Kai still weeks away from returning to the St Ives Compact from the Star League Conference.
“As part of this agreement you will be able to build and maintain equipment and house civilians on Spica.†Field Marshal Hasek was saying “but the Sea Fox Clan will also be expected to sell military grade equipment to both the Federated Suns and the St Ives Compact and will be expected to keep the illusion that there are Federated Suns or St Ives Compact forces on planet. Maintaining its defences†he said.
“We fully agree to these terms†Damien Kalasa said “we also intend to have an unmarked Sea Fox JumpShip pass through the system regularly to collect supplies/drop off additional equipment. We request the right to travel inside the St Ives Compact orders and to defend ourselves from all attackers in either the Federated Suns or St Ives Compact.â€
“The St Ives Compact agrees with these terms however we would ask that you transmit your security clearance on a secured channel every time you enter one of our systems.†Cassandra Allard-Liao said agreeing to anything that brought more Clan-tech into her realm, anything that helped her small nation would be agreeable.
“The Federated Suns will also agree to these terms however, we will also be routing a WarShip through the system regularly to ensure the security of our borders and of our on planet population.†Hasek said, Damien Kalasa nodded his agreement. And with that the Sea Foxes had one more territory, one more trade world, their population would be safe in their growing ArcShip fleet however they would also be able to ground themselves if the time came to abandon their space homes.
Clan Nova Cat Territory
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
16th/17th December 3073
Following news on the Chatter-web that the Nova Cats had involved themselves on behalf of the Davions in the troubles on New Avalon Clan Wolf and Jade Falcon both decide the Nova Cats have had too loose a leash for quite a while.
Entering the system on the 16th the Jade Falcon’s Twelfth Talon Cluster of Sigma Galaxy and the Gryfalcon Eyrie Cluster of Iota Galaxy supported by the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Frost Falcon assault the Barcella system. Against them they face the Nova Cat Aegis-class Blade and a heavy aerospace contingent, from the Nova Cat Titans Cluster. Though the Frost Falcon is able to gain the defending WarShip’s attention and keep them away from the invading ground troops the better skill of the Nova Cat gunners spells the end for the Jade Falcon WarShip.
On the ground the two Jade Falcon Clusters were met by the five Clusters of Clan Nova Cat’s Alpha Galaxy, once the pride of the Clan’s Touman Alpha Galaxy were more than ready to show why they should be the number one Galaxy again. With the Jade Falcons not initiating a batchall or asking for safcon the Nova Cats assaulted them in the air almost as soon as they broke through the atmosphere.
The 489th Assault Cluster of Alpha Galaxy was in the wrong place at the wrong time as the Jade Falcons landed vitually on top of them was crushed under the pressure of the two Clusters and their attending DropShips. The Jade Falcons quickly realizing the Nova Cats were well equipped to deal with invaders and abandoning all pretenses to dueling the Nova Cats in honourable combat. The First Nova Cat Guards Cluster arrived in time to evacuate the last of the 489th Assault Cluster survivors while the Jade Falcons secured their landing zones.
Over the next eighteen hours the First Nova Cat Guards with support of the 450th Assault Cluster conducted continuous raids against the Jade Falcons damaging their equipment and the DropShips in a near constant stream of ground, air and artillery attacks. At 06:00 the next day the remains of the Jade Falcon’s forces, two Trinaries, launched into the sky with two of their four DropShips fighting clear of the Nova Cats Aerospace forces they were allowed to leave the system without further incident. Upon returning to the Jade Falcon forces these troops found themselves reassigned to a second-line Solahma unit for their utter failure despite the damage they had inflicted on the defending Nova Cats.
A Day later Clan Wolf arrived in system at a pirate point, knowing Nova Cat WarShips would be waiting at the regular entry points. Even so the Wolves had taken no chances and had the Athens, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, for naval support and escort. The Wolves Kappa Galaxy’s 101st Battle Cluster landed near the First New Barcella Guards Cluster base camp not far from a group of Nova Cat OmniMechs and vehicle factories. The Wolves fought hard and fast overwhelming the Nova Cat defenders rapidly routing the cluster and seizing two clusters of equipment from the factories, informing the Nova Cats their Trial of Possession was complete they immediately left the planet, the whole attack a ruse to gain access to Nova Cat factories.
On the ways out of the system the Blade challenged the Athens the Nova Cats more than a little annoyed that the Wolves had used the news about the Nova Cats Inner Sphere dealings as a cover for a raid against their factories. The undamaged and heavier Athens quickly overwhelms the Blade with heavy naval particle cannons, capital missiles and better manoeuvrability, the crippled Blade is rapidly disabled and left to drift by the retreating Wolves more than proving the worth of the Wolves capturing the ship from the Lyran Alliance.
And so ends 3073, hope you enjoyed
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now into '74 with a gamble
3074
Outside Luck City, Kyeinnisan
Clan Sea Fox Land hold
Former Free Worlds League
8th January 3074
Known by many names over the centuries, the most recent being the Gambler’s World, Kyeinnisan was a nearly completely lawless. Corporate police tried to keep control in the worlds multiple gambling establichments and games areas of the world which sat near the centre of the Free Worlds League between the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and the Duchy of Oriente. During the united Free Worlds League-era leader Captain-General Thomas Marik allowed the world to flourish as a gamblers paradise and promoted the world as somewhere that anyone in the Inner Sphere could make money. This had increased the tourist trade on the world immensely and created plenty of crime and intelligence operations on the world. Thomas Marik’s united Free Worlds League had the power and resources to place a heavy intelligence (SAFE) and security presence on the world keeping the locals and visitors in check and external states operations under control.
When the FWL had fallen into disarray many of these SAFE employees had found work for local law enforcement and much of the security forces had been folded into the militia on the planet making Kyeinnisan was one of the most secure worlds in its former territories. This was why Clan Sea Fox had picked Kyeinnisan as their newest target and why the Territorial Waters Khanate led by the Fifty-first Strike Cluster and the WarShip Perilous, a Carrack-class Transport, had come to the world.
The local population barely noticed the Clan take over, the milita forces agreeing for them to land on the world without a shot fired, although the Sea Foxes do take control over their Mech forces for their own security. In exchange the Sea Foxes agree to defend the world from all outsiders and not to put any controls on local business or attempt to stop the flow of tourists to the world. Like the Fox’s Whelps move before on Spica the Khanate took possession of the world for the Khanate first and the Clan second. The Territorial Waters set this world up, like all other Sea Fox Inner Sphere Worlds, as a trade world open to all members of the Former Free Worlds League.
A few days after this move, by the Territorial Waters, the Deathstrike Khanate with a trade base on Tortuga in the Nova Cat’s Den trade Clan Nova Cat the Plasma Cannon technology for a star of brand new SM-series Hovertanks.
Pride of New Samarkand, Kyushu-class Frigate/Carrier
Draconis Admiralty Fleet
Periphery Near Draconis Combine
20th January 3074
Following the discovery of the Nova Cat involvement in the Federated Suns to stop the Varnay attack on the Davion family, the Nova Cat opening of an embassy on New Avalon and the growing amounts of Clan technology in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns the Warlord Kiyomori Minamoto of Pesht decides that enough is enough and takes efforts into his own hands.
Without orders from Luthien to counter this threat possessed by the Federated Suns/Nova Cat alliance the Warlord took steps to minimize it contacting the Pride of New Samarkand, a newly retrofitted Kyushu-class Frigate/Carrier, and ordered it to conduct operations in the Periphery and destroy and Federated Suns or Nova Cat supply ships or patrol craft.
Sitting in his command chair aboard the WarShip Tai-sho Cameron Saito waited for the K-F Drive to jump to its next system when the sensor operator spoke up “Captain, we are detecting incoming Jump Signatures†she said, though Cameron’s rank was the equivalent to an Admiral it was tradition for commanders to be called Captain and he allowed it, after all he was Captain of one of the Draconis Combine’s most powerful WarShips.
“Finally†he muttered quietly they had been searching for any trace of their prey for two weeks and found nothing, “good, all crew to battle stations†he ordered into the chair mounted communications systems “all DropShips prepare to detach, fighters prepare to launch.†He said the Pride of New Samarkand was a vessel with many utilities it was time they all worked together to show the vessel‘s true. “How many vessels are we looking at?†He asked looking back at the sensor operator.
“At least four, possibly five†she said predicting what would come through the Jump was never easy but this was a state of the art WarShip they should have some idea. Five vessels closely matched a Clan Star minus a command vessel, exactly what a Merchant trading star may have.
Twelve minutes later the first vessel appeared a Lola III-class Destroyer bearing the markings of Clan Nova Cat, the roaring cat with a twin starburst, the vessel was bigger than the Kyushu-class Pride of New Samarkand but the Draconis Combine vessel far out-gunned it. “Bring us into attack position, not what we were expecting but let’s make the most of it. Launch DropShips and a fighter wing.†All four DropShips and eighteen fighters launched from the vessel’s underside closing on the Lola III. Moments later four Carrack Merchant-class Transports arrived near and around the Lola III, the trade ships, the Nova Cats always did like their armoured transports instead of conventional JumpShips. “The rest of our catch.†Cameron whispered “launch all fighters†he said five wings of fighters launched from the underside of the Pride of New Samarkand joining the already launched wing, two regiments of fighters were now approaching the Nova Cat trade fleet. “Bring weapons to bear on that destroyer.†He ordered, the Nova Cat escort ship was already firing while ten OmniFighters were launching from the vessel. The destroyer itself was ignoring the Pride of New Samarkand’s incoming fighters, all its weapons reached extreme range, eight naval lasers and several capital-class White Shark missiles, and all were targeted on the Frigate the Draconis Combine WarShip shook under the hits.
“Firing forward weapons†the weapons officer said the forward Heavy Naval Particle Projection Cannon engaged the Lola striking it’s port side severely damaging the armour. The Nova Cat destroyer instantly returned fire again with Lasers and capital missiles, just as the Samarkand’s fighters arrived, the destroyer continued to ignore them instead firing yet again on the Combine vessel. At that moment all four Carrack Merchants opened fire with their weapons arrays - though they didn’t carry naval weapons they did carry extensive conventional weapons designed to defend against heavy aerospace fighter forces. With the volume of fire put out by the four Carracks any aerospace fighter or DropShip caught in their fire would be in for a very bad experience.
Again the Pride of New Samarkand fired again its Particle Cannon missing the destroyer by several thousand metres while all four Carrack Merchants launched their DropShips a mixture of Broadswords, Union C’s and a pair of Titan-class Aerospace Carriers. Cameron suddenly realised what he was facing, both aerospace carriers immediately dropped thirty fighters each into space while the Broadswords and Unions were all well armed, combined with the Carrack Merchants conventional weapons Cameron‘s fighters would be heavily outgunned. It was time to begin to even the odds a little.
“Close on targets, ignore the destroyer.†Cameron said, suddenly the destroyer wasn’t a threat despite the constant naval laser and capital missile weapons fire. The Pride of New Samarkand began accelerating intent on brining its Heavy Naval Autocannons to bear, they would make short work of the Nova Cat Merchant forces.
“I’m detecting fluctuations in their Jump Cores, the vessels are attempting to jump again.†The sensor operator said.
“Understood weapons bring main guns on the Carracks, I want them destroyed before we even target that destroyer again.†Cameron said as the destroyer engaged them with eight Naval Autocannons, several lasers and capital missiles, it was beginning to bite, ‘our turn’ Cameron thought moments before the Pride of New Samarkand’s main broadside guns opened fire either side of the ship. The Glory Road and the Bright Star, Carrack Merchant-class vessels died in an instant as the heavy naval autocannons ripped through the weak armour and structure of the vessels, two Nova Cat crews died in an instant.
Moments later the one of the remaining Carrack Merchant vessels disappeared in a flash as its K-F cores activated allowing the craft to escape. The Pride of New Samarkand’s last shots shattered the back of the final Carrack-Merchant just as its K-F Core activated, the Enlightened Path, the vessel was shattered beyond recognition by the barrage, the unexpendable K-F energy ripped the Merchant craft to pieces as it looked for a way to release the energy.
All that remained was the destroyer and the remaining four Nova Cat DropShips and most of the fighters. The Pride of New Samarkand’s own fighters were being cut down in their droves and two of Cameron’s supporting DropShips were gone. The destroyer continued to engage the Draconis Combine WarShip again with all its broadside guns, the vessel was beginning to damage them with engines and rear armour both damaged already. “Fall back to a safe distance, have the DropShips and fighters break off from the Nova Cat Destroyer we are leaving.â€
“We’re allowing them to escape?†His executive officer asked
“Hai, we are†Cameron said looking at the man, he was loyal to a tee but sometimes not all with the plan “this was a Warlord’s order not a Coordinator’s†he said “we may destroy that vessel but we will also be destroyed, weapons cover our DropShips and fighters during the retreat.†The New Samarkand’s weapons destroyed the remaining Nova Cat DropShips as it moved away allowing the fighters to make their retreat, unfortunately the Nova Cat Destroyer wasn’t quite finished engaging them with Naval lasers the entire time. The Lola III cut down Cameron’s last DropShips before it gave up the pursuit joining the remaining Trinary of OmniFighters. “Load our fighters and jump us away.†Cameron ordered a few minutes later the Pride of New Samarkand jumped clear of the system with less than half of its fighters, hours later the Carrack Merchants that had previously escaped returned to help pick up the remaining Nova Cat fighters, the Combine had started trouble today, the badly damaged destroyer and the surviving merchant would struggle back to the Nova Cat’s Den to report this attack.
The Nova Cats would have their vengeance.
Secret Complex
Baltazar III, Timbuktu Theatre
Lyran Alliance
28th January 3074
With their year long contract with the Lyran Alliance nearing and end the Gray Death Legion help House Steiner engineers to unlock the last secret parts of the former-Blakist Factory. As the last secrets of the factory are exposed the Blakist’s new toys begin to reach the day of light. The Legion suddenly realise that they may not be getting the technology easy however as two Legions of Marian Hegemony Ground troops arrive in system in JumpShips escorted by fighters. Periphery states usually don’t step up to the Succession States, however with the Gray Death Legion exposing the secrets of the factory they understand the reason for the attack.
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Capellan Shipyard Facility
Trznadel Cluster, Magistracy of Canopus Commonality
Capellan Confederation
3rd February 3074
Following years of upgrading the Capellan Confederation’s engineers deep in the Trznadel Cluster of the Magistracy of Canopus Commonality complete upgrading work to the Shipyard facility built there. The facility now possesses two WarShip Construction Yards, engineers that have been waiting for months can finally begin work on the Capellan Confederation’s newest two WarShips the Feng Huang 2-class Cruiser-Carrier Sun Tzu-Liao and the Naomi Centrella-Liao.
Despite all the resources going into the shipyards and the high security provided by the Hell’s Black Aces and several other strategic assets the citizens of the Magistracy of Canopus had not noticed the build up in the region and the military of the Magistracy had not been able to break into the Cluster, to find out what was going on inside the Cluster.
Star League Holdings
University of Thorin Dig-Site
Thorin, Lyran Alliance
10th February 3074
Following several years of work on archaeology and excavation work the re-builders at the University of Thorin had wasted no time in laying the first blocks of foundations on Thorin. With such a step completed and trouble in other areas dying down the First Royal BattleMech Regimental Brigade The Morgan‘s Lions, commanded by General Archer Christifori, was sent to the world for garrison. While the on planet construction engineers from the Star League Corps of Engineering, led by Lord James Cavannah from Terra, had defenders from the Fifteenth Royal Battle Armour Battalion the First Royal Regimental Brigade was to take over all their duties. The Fifteenth was fully absorbed into the Brigade giving the First Royal Brigade access to three Battalions of Battle Armour, the largest amount available to any of the SLDF’s Brigades, Collectively these Battalions are known as the First Royal Battle Armour Regiment.
Trial of Possession
Deep Periphery
Nouveaux-Paris Colony
18th February 3074
Two days before the 0ne hundred-and-twenty-fifth Dragoon Cluster of Clan Cloud Cobra’s Epsilon Galaxy supported by the York-class Destroyer/Carrier Brimstone arrived in system declaring a Trial of Possession. The defending Sixty-sixth Garrison Cluster of Clan Nova Cat’s Zeta Provisional Galaxy had declared they would defend the world with two Trinaries of their troops - the Cloud Cobra commander Star Colonel Helen Steiner had replied with telling them that the entire One hundred-and-twenty-fifth Dragoon Cluster were about to land on the planet and take all Nova Cats that didn’t fight as bondsmen.
The Sixty-Sixth Garrison Cluster had engaged the Cloud Cobras as soon as they landed with their full force - none wanted to be bondsmen to the Cloud Cobras. Following ten hours of fighting both the Nova Cats and the Cloud Cobras were heavily beaten-up however the Cloud Cobras were in a better position with the Brimstone in orbit - at 23.00 hours the surviving Nova Cats surrendered to the Cloud Cobras - but not before a member of the merchant caste sent a HPG burst transmission to one of the Nova Cat deep space boosters.
Royal Court
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
21st February 3074
Following the resolution of the Varnay Crisis and the death of Field Marshal George Hasek the Federated Suns Royal Court and the AFFS High Command decide a diversification of power is needed within the Federated Suns. Within the Federated Suns borders the worlds Caselton (Draconis March), Sonnia (Capellan March) and Tikonov (Capellan March) are transferred to Crucis March control moving more power to New Avalon.
Within the Capellan March there is widespread calls for New Syrtis to reject these proposals however Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek refused to cause more unrest in the Federated Suns following the Varnay Crisis and supported the High Command’s decision. With a major world moving into the Crucis March New Avalon also decides to diversify power slightly with Tikonov becoming the new Capitol World of the Crucis March with Prince Burton Davion, ten, becoming in line to be Field Marshal of the Crucis March. Until Burton comes of age local AFFS leaders led by Field Marshal Galen Cox, who has finally emerged from his cover persona of Jerrard Cranston, Victor’s aide, is made Marshal of the March with Duke Paul Bowman, Duke of Tikonov and former member of the Wild Geese Mercenary command entrusted to set up the new structure and command of the march.
New Avalon remains the capital of the Federated Suns and throne world of the Davion family. While to appease the Capellan March Songgang, Peirce, Caldwell, Montour and Verdrigreis, all worlds in the Crucis March, are transferred to the Capellan March command giving the Capellan March full control over border defence with the Taurian Concordat allowing for more coordinated defences against Periphery aggression.
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Star League Stadium
International Zone/Black Hills, Solaris VII
Lyran Alliance, Freedom Theatre
1st March 3074
Following several delays in construction and spiraling costs the Star League was ready to make its mark on the Solaris VII Game World culture. The Star League Stadium would be the jewel of Solaris VII with the largest crowds and with the most attractions. The arena was unique among those on Solaris VII, firstly it was the largest on the planet roughly one and a half times the size of Steiner Stadium – the Colluseum, secondly it was in the International Zone of Solaris City just on the border of the Black Hills region. Meaning none of the Succession States have overly strong influence over the area, it also means Solaris VII police forces have to devote more resources to the area.
From the outside it looked a lot like an enlarged version of any other sporting arena in the Inner Sphere however the design inside was more akin to the Steiner Stadium’s Coliseum design. Unlike the neo-Roman design of the Coliseum the Star League Stadium was set out in the shape of the map of the Inner Sphere. The centrepiece of the stadium was a raised area in the shape of a Cameron star while surrounding it were areas donating the various realms of the Inner Sphere. A white covered region centred round a mail-fist, donating House Steiner, alongside this was a field of cherry blossom trees, representing House Kurita. Down from this was a Medieval eighteenth century Fort, donating the Federated Suns while beside this was two green fields, one slightly smaller than the other separated by a replica of the Great Wall of China, representing the Capellan Confederation and the break-away St Ives Compact. While finally in the lower eastern corner of the Stadium was a large body of water with half a dozen islands with various features on them, representing the fractured states of the Free Worlds League.
Surrounding the stadium were open bandstands for up to fourteen thousand seated viewers topped with executive boxes with another four thousand seats. Like the Coliseum, using knowledge gained from the information vaults on Terra, the Star League Stadium featured Lostech energy barriers that could block any and all weapons fire.
The Star League gaming authority on Solaris VII had immediately rated the Stadium as a Class-6 Arena, capable of any type of battle that would take place on the Gaming World. They also cleared the Star League Stadium to hold the first and last games of the Gaming League taking the limelight away from the Lyran Coliseum in the Silesia area of the city. This action by the gaming commission annoys the Coliseum’s owners however since the Lyran Government has no qualms about this decision so the Lyran stables are not happy but they can do little.
Lothario
Marian Hegemony/Lothian League
Periphery
13th March 3074
With seven other worlds Lothario break away from the Marian Hegemony to form the Lothian League. Though the worlds were previously conquered by the Marians by force of arms the barren worlds had been difficult and expensive to control. Immediately the leader of the Lothian League Lorelei Logan immediately hires several small mercenary bands to defend the worlds that had broken away. For the Marian Hegemony’s part they were content to leave the worlds independent for now, culturally the Lothians had barely set in with the Marian population and were rebellious.
Ruins of Bealton, Odessa
Donegal Province, Lyran Alliance
29th March 3074
Following a year working with Snord’s Irregulars Mercenary unit Loki agent Anton Gramash finds a sealed vault underneath the City of Bealton, the former capital city of the planet. This vault had been sealed for centuries under the ruined city and is the same one that the Ruins of Gabriel had pointed the Star League Intelligence towards. Carefully through suggestion and information left the SLIC had directed the Snord’s Irregulars directly to it.
Inside the vault the Loki and the Snord’s Irregulars find a battalion of Star League-era ‘Royal’ variant BattleMechs and an information vault full of data dating back to the original Star League. As part of the agreement between House Steiner and the Snord’s Irregulars the mercenaries are left with most of the Mechs, though the Lyrans take an Atlas II Assault Mech, while the LIC begin analysis of the information.
During the analysis of the information there is a disturbance in New Bealton when a car-bomb explodes collapsing a multi-story car park. These events take the majority of the Snord’s Irregulars away from the vault to assist in security and recovery operations. This opens a space in the Lyran defences for a small four person team of Gray Death Scout Battle Armour equipped commandos to break into the vault and copy all the information contained in the vault’s information banks and add more information on the Ruins of Gabriel, which the SLDF have taken what they wanted and abandoned for the Lyrans deeper in the Odessa system.
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Nadir Jump-point
Glory System, Clan Space
Kerensky Cluster
5th April 3074
The Nova Cat WarShips Bond, Chronicle and Path of Honour, all Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, jumped into the Glory system of the Kerensky Cluster, a system only populated by Jade Falcons and Wolves the first targets of the Nova Cat’s revenge. “This is Oathmaster Zane Carns, of Clan Nova Cat, you came to our den uninvited. Now we come to yours. Prepare yourselves. We are ready for your challenges; an unanswered call will signal to us you wish to be targeted.†Zane said looking at the commander of the Path of Glory, his command ship for this operation, at least until his landing on the planet with the rest of Alpha Galaxy.
“Nova Cat forces, you leave the Homeworlds to find new pastures then you come back here thinking that you should have sole possession of a world? The Clans have shared worlds and space since our inception by the Founder, we refute your claim, I bid both my defending WarShips there will be no Batchall.†The reply from the defending Jade Falcon WarShips came loud and clear, Zane had known that this mission would be deadly and costly his visions had said so, but he hadn’t expected the Jade Falcons to fight without honour.
“Nova Cat Alpha Galaxy, Path of Glory continue to target. Chronicle and Bond have you covered.†Star Commodore Sel Bavros, commander of the Chronicle announced, he was the most senior of the WarShip commanders and so took tactical control over the situation. Both vessels turned towards the defending Jade Falcons, already launching fighters and DropShips, Zane could see they were another Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser and a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, a significantly bigger and better armed vessel.
Though technically under Zane’s command the Oathmaster had already cleared them to make decisions, he knew nothing about naval combat, even with this lack of naval tactics knowledge Zane did know one thing the two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers would be hard pressed to take on a Jade Falcon Aegis and a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser.
“Commodore, dispatch the Second Nova Cat Titans and both our assault DropShips to support Chronicle and Bond.†Zane said looking at Star Commodore Annabel Leroux, the Path of Honour’s commander.
“That will leave us open to attack.â€
“Yes, but intelligence points to there being no more WarShips in system and sensors are equally blind. The other WarShips are outgunned, we can help and the Jade Falcons have chosen to ignore the duelling rules of the Clans, once the DropShips and fighters are in transit, set a course for the planet, direct Alpha Galaxy to follow us and for all JumpShips to clear the system.†Zane said assuming command, with the Khan and saKhan both attending to duties in and around the Nova Cat’s Den he’d taken over as commander in running Nova Cat business in the Homeworlds something that helped when faced with a combat situation.
As the Nova Cat ground forces cleared the way Sel Bavros noticed the Second Nova Cat Titans and some Assault DropShips still remained, he quickly suppressed the smile, ‘trust the Oathmaster’ was all he thought. “Chronicle, Bondâ€
“Go ahead.†Star Commodore Allan Lankenau replied from the Bond’s command room.
“Follow deployment Delta take the Second and make sure you keep the Hazen busy we have the Aerie.â€
“Understood, good luck Chronicle†Lankenau said cutting the link, Delta would put the Chronicle up against a vessel far larger than itself, even supported by fighters and DropShips they would be hard pressed to match the vessel.
“Weapons target the White Aerie, full salvos, contact the DropShips ensure they stay out of our firing solution and to move to position Omega. Alpha Protocol.†He said looking over at the communication officer who nodded their understanding, passing on the orders.
The Chronicle headed right for the White Aerie the two ships exchange capital missile and autocannon fire as they approached each other while DropShips and fighters engaged in a no holds bared dogfight between the two capital ships. In the centre of the fight a Vanguard and a Raven DropShip escorted by a star of fighters broke through the battle lines of the Jade Falcons the Raven taking hits for the larger Vanguard protecting it. As the Chronicle and White Aerie moved alongside each other showing their Broadsides the DropShips were on the far side of the Jade Falcon vessel deploying ProtoMechs and Battle Armour, while ProtoMechs burned the armour the Battle Armour were tasked with boarding and capturing the vessel. The White Aerie ignored them opening fire with a broadside of Naval Autocannons, although a few missed their target most hit the Chronicle and soon the Aegis was consumed by an expanding fireball. Just as the Heavy Cruiser was destroyed Nova Cat ProtoMechs and Battle Armour were boarding the Jade Falcon WarShip, though their command ship was gone their fight was far from over. The White Aerie turned its guns on the remaining Nova Cat DropShips hoping to destroy them before they Nova Cat assault troops took over. Already the ProtoMechs and Elementals were burning through the hull.
In the other battle the Bond was running off the Janice Hazen the superior Nova Cat gunners and fighter pilots, with the two Capital ships matching each other’s firepower it was down to the crews and the Jade Falcon crews were just no match for the Nova Cats. Soon the Janice Hazen was following the same fate as the Nova Cat’s Chronicle, like the Jade Falcon’s White Aerie the Nova Cat gunners turned on the Jade Falcon fighters and DropShips.
Onboard the White Aerie the Nova Cat Armoured Elementals had no issues with the Jade Falcon crew despite the close confines of the Black Lion-class vessel their lasers and anti-personnel weapons were making quick work. Less than an hour later the vessel was in Nova Cat hands, battered but intact, though the loss of the Chronicle had hurt the Nova Cats the capture of the White Aerie made up it and the Path of Honour was still burning towards Glory with Alpha Galaxy.
Path of Honour, Near Orbit
Glory, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
7th April 3074
The rest of the Nova Cat invasion force continued in system, the Path of Honour escorting them the entire way. As they closed on the planet Glory one last surprise met them the Clan Wolf WarShip Nature’s Wrath, a Lola III-class Destroyer, although seventy thousand tons lighter than the Aegis it was faster and carried an array of long range heavy naval lasers capable of tearing open the Path of Honour’s armoured hide.
While Alpha Galaxy headed for the planet Star Commodore Annabel Leroux brought her vessel closer to the Nature’s Wrath brining its Naval missiles into play. As the ships traded Naval lasers and missile the distance separating them began to close the Naval Autocannons on Path of Honour into play. The two WarShips continued to close until finally they reached broadside distance where the Path of Honour’s heavy Naval autocannons severely outclassed the Nature’s Wrath’s lighter autocannons. The heavier cannons tore through the thin armour and internal structure of the Lola III destroying the vessel and all crew though the Path of Honour was badly damaged it was still operational and Alpha Galaxy now had a clear run to Glory.
Sticking to the plan the Nova Cats landed directly between the Wolves and Jade Falcons landing on a firebase that had been abandoned since the early days of the Clans. In the centuries since the base had become overgrown and decayed, none of the buildings still had a roof and one of the main base walls had fallen, it did still have two major things going for it however. Firstly the ferrocrete landing zone inside the base was still in flawless condition as was the landing strip that ran alongside the base. And secondly neither Clan Wolf or Jade Falcon had anything based in the area for seven kilometres in all directions, the perfect safe landing zone. By now both Clans would know the Nova Cats were in system and that they had engaged the local Naval forces eliminating them.
“To Clan Jade Falcon and Clan Wolf, I am Zane Carns Oathmaster of Clan Nova Cat and commander of Alpha Galaxy. We possess Zulu Command Base on the South West Peninsula, we will conduct all operations from this base. If you plan on refuting our claim we are ready to answer your trials.†Zane announced minutes after landing on the world to a wide spectrum radio, anyone who wanted to hear would hear.
“Clan Nova Cat, you are not welcome on this world, I Galaxy Commander Nowa Vickers of Clan Wolf refute your presence on this world and bid my entire Tau Galaxy against you.†Came a reply from the Clan Wolf defenders on planet, Zane expected it.
“Clan Nova Cat, we will also refute your presence on this world, Clan Jade Falcon’s Iota Provisional Galaxy will fight you until our last breath.†The Jade Falcon commander said there was no name or wish for any terms, just as Zane had expected everything was going as he had foreseen. Neither Clan it appeared wanted to initiate Batchalls or conduct trials.
“We hit the Wolves and then turn on the Jade Falcons, quickly and surgically. We know what we want and we know where it is.†Zane said turning to the other Star Colonels around him, the 449th Assault Cluster and the Shiva Keshik would be attacking the Wolves while the First Nova Cat Guards Cluster and the 450th Assault Cluster remained defending Zulu Command Base and Alpha Galaxy’s DropShips. All the Nova Cats would be outnumbered but given none of the defences would be expecting them to hit everyone at once.
Leading the Shiva Keshik and the 449th Assault Cluster forward Oathmaster Zane Carns’ Arctic Cheetah began detecting Wolf forces ahead of him. First on the list was a Clan Wolf (in-Exile) manufactured Pack Hunter. Zane almost smiled the Wolves outwardly disdained anything to do with the other half of their Clan, the side that had gone over to the Inner Sphere, but in reality they needed anything they could get to keep their garrison forces fully stocked and ready for the fight. “Nova Cats, they set the tone of this trial by using stravag equipment, and ignoring the rules of Zellbrigen all warriors fire at will!†He ordered, though it was not a breach of honour using Clan Wolf (in-Exile) equipment or even using Inner Sphere equipment, the 449th Assault Cluster fielded an Atlas II in its ranks unmodified since the time of the original Star League, it was hypocritical to then use it in combat and that Zane could not stand by. "Stick to Zellbrigen until they break it.†He added before one of his broke the rules in a free for all there was no guarantees about the victor.
The Pack Hunter was the same tonnage as the Arctic Cheetah but it was a regular BattleMech not an advanced OmniMech like Zane’s ride meaning it could not change weapons from fight to fight it was also a one weapon Mech, a single torso mounted Extended-Range Large Laser dominating the weapons of the light Mech. Though powerful enough to rip an arm or leg cleanly from the Arctic Cheetah’s body they had to actually hit the target and Zane planned on making that very difficult striking out first with his own Mech’s arm mounted Extended-Range Large Laser missing but putting the Wolf warrior off step. At the same time Zane struck his OmniMechs Jump Jets into life sending the light Mech flying over one hundred metres in the opposite direction, a man-made lightning bolt from the Pack Hunter’s PPC flew straight through the location where Zane Mech’s centre torso had been. As the Arctic Fox landed Zane pressed the primary trigger again sending another laser blast down the range, the Arctic Fox’s cockpit filled with excess heat from the laser blast, however Zane was rewarded as he saw the laser blast strike the Wolf Mech dead centre. The power of the beam burning away all the armour and cutting into the torso, something inside exploded and the Mech went down like a ton of bricks crushing the cockpit and the pilot in a flash. “One down†Zane said dispassionately looking for his next target.
An hour later the combined elements of the Shiva Keshik and the 449th Assault Cluster were battered but victorious. The Wolves had surrendered the field, an OmniMech factory two kilometres inside their territory, before the Nova Cats completely overrun their garrison galaxy. Although this was an important factory they knew the Nova Cats could never hold the world however unbeknown to the Wolves that was never even a part of the Nova Cats planning - instead they seized five working copies of the Lycurgus Assault OmniMech and plans to manufacture more before retreating back to their DropShips their prize secured.
An hour following the return of the Shiva Keshik and the 449th Assault Cluster the First Nova Cat Guards and the 450th Assault Clusters left the landing zone heading for Clan Jade Falcon’s claimed territory. The two clusters combined commander Star Colonel Kalvin Rosse, of the First Nova Cat Guards, had picked an Overlord-class Transport DropShip full of brand-new Mechs as their target. Leading from the centre of the formation was Star Colonel Kalvin Rosse’s Warhawk Assault OmniMech, alongside him was a Nova Cat Heavy OmniMech and a Supernova Assault BattleMech. Behind them were a pair of SM-1 Tank Destroyers and a pair of Shoden Heavy Tanks though vehicles were not a strong as BattleMechs they still formed an integral part of the combat unit, especially within the new Nova Cat Touman. “Guards Actual to Alpha Star begin assault, engage at will†he said into the communication suite “maintain Zellbrigen until they break it.†He said again though they were outgunned and combining fire would probably help the Nova Cats to victory quicker it was the Clans way to maintain duelling rules during a Trial.
“Gamma One to Guards Actual, we have a pair Jade Falcon lights combining fire on the western flank.†One of the Star Commanders reported within moments, Kalvin had expected it to last longer before they broke the duelling rules.
“Understood, all forces step back strategy, find your targets and eliminate.†Kalvin ordered. In concert the Warhawk, Supernova and Nova Cat all engaged targets at long range with their full weapons. Kalvin’s Mech and both other Mechs also fired full salvos, the heat in each Mech began to rush upwards, “continue firing†he ordered forcing the heat higher Kalvin noticed fluctuations in his targeting suite. “One, Two and Three, step back†he ordered all three Mechs stepped back opening a hole in the Nova Cat formation as a pair of heavy Jade Falcon Mechs rushed into the gap in the lines they were met by the paired SM1s and Shodens, the first Jade Falcon Mech took an assault barrage from the lead SM1 followed up by twenty-seven high-explosive advanced-tactical-missiles while the second took missiles then an assault autocannon barrage gunning down both Jade Falcon heavies in moments. All along the Nova Cat line Jade Falcons were being hit by the ‘step back’ strategy and though Nova Cat Mechs were falling to Jade Falcon guns they were acceptable losses, the Nova Cats were closing on their prize every minute.
Twenty minutes later the Nova Cats were in positions all around the Overlord making sure that they did not strike the craft, to do so would invite their gunners to become involved in the battle. “Nova Cat Guards Actual to Overlord Actual†Kalvin said “we have secured the ground under your ship. I take your ship, crew and cargo as Isorla for Clan Nova Cat. Prepare to receive boarders.â€
“We are Jade Falcon, not Nova Cat, we will defend ourselves with our weapons if you plan to board.â€
“If you wish to further dishonour your Clan by involving your DropShip in a ground battle I will end the threat you possess to my forces now by calling in support from my orbiting WarShip, the Path of Honour, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser.†Kalvin warned, he wasn’t sure if the WarShip was in position but if it was he didn’t really want to use it, an empty threat if there ever was one he wanted the Mechs.
“Involving a WarShip in ground combat is a great dishonour.â€
“It is but this attack is for revenge, not for possessions, those are bonuses. If I am required to I will destroy your craft.†He said coldly, deadly.
“Understood commander, we surrender to you, our loading bays will open soon.†After a few moments the loading bays opened allowing Nova Cat Elementals to enter the craft.
“Claw One to Guards Actual, we hit the mother load commander the bays full of Turkina OmniMechs.†Kalvin’s Elemental commander reported moments later, they’d checked the inventory and found Watch reports were spot on.
“Understood, A prize crew is en route to secure the prize. The First Guards and the Assault Guards are in control of the field.†Kalvin reported, the Jade Falcons were in retreat on most of the fronts the Nova Cat Mechs, Elementals and vehicles were easily holding their own. Within three hours the Nova Cats were fully in command of the vessel, its crew and cargo. With their prizes secured Alpha Galaxy and its prizes were ready to leave Glory returning to the Path of Honour in orbit, the WarShip then escorted them back to the other Nova Cat WarShips at the Nadir Jump Points. From there they would return to Barcella, their revenge and prizes secure.
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Nadir Point
Tortuga System
Nova Cat’s Den
18th April 3074
With the Nova Cats position in the former Tortuga Dominions now a known fact to they were a target to anyone interested in causing issues. Intent on taking control of their destiny in between the Nova Cat’s held territory and the Federated Suns the Filtvelt Coalition’s Government sends the Last of the Lakers, an Invader-class JumpShip, into the Tortuga system to contact the Nova Cats.
“Sir, we are emerging at the Nadir point of the Tortuga system.†The Jump officer reported to Captain Suzanne Fulton.
“Understood, sensor scan of immediate areaâ€
“Several DropShips appear to be working at a space station at the Zenith point, no other contacts… Massive EM changes…†The sensor operator said as another Ship jumped in close to them, Captain Fulton immediately recognised the design despite its Clan origins, a Fredesa-class Corvette. “Oh hell, captain, their guns are fully primed and locked on us and our DropShips. We move and we’re dead.â€
“Their communications say the same boss, we’re in the mouth of the cat.†The communications officer said from the next seat in the compact bridge.
“Understood, contact the Clan vessel.†Suzanne said the communication officer nodded “Clan vessel this is the Filtvelt Coalition vessel Last of the Lakers, we have come to invite a Clan Nova Cat representative to Filtvelt to begin immediate negotiations for the opening of trade relations.â€
“Filtvelt vessel this is Star Commodore Althea Leroux, commander of the Spirit Sight, if you move we will destroy your vessel. Detach any vessels or attempt to jump we will be destroyed.†The Clan officer ordered, Suzanne waited for several moments waiting for the impact of the first Nova Cat weapon. She was sure that they wouldn’t go for the governments plan, it was a fools errand but she was an officer and would follow orders. “Filtvelt vessel, communicate your terms. The Nova Cats will follow them or we will not, you will stand ready anyway or when we arrive we will strike.†She warned, the Spirit Sight moving slowly past the forward prow of the JumpShip.
“Transmit the data, and pray they go for it.†Suzanne said
“We have received your data, now leave or be destroyed and your nation an occupied territory of Clan Nova Cat.†Althea Leroux warned.
“Fine with me, job done people, charge the drive and get us the hell out of here.†Suzanne Fulton ordered, her ship and crew had taken enough risks, though seeing the Nova Cats here this close to home was scary enough. Having them on Filtvelt would be something completely new.
Calderon Family Home, Samantha
Taurus, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
22nd April 3074
The Taurian Concordat awakens to bad news Brenda Calderon has died in her sleep at the Calderon Family home outside the rebuilding capital Samantha on Taurus. Following the death of Brenda Baron Cham Kithrong, former leader of the Calderon Protectorate, takes over as Protector (Regent) until Erik Martens-Calderon comes of age in several years time after his term in the military.
Proving Grounds
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
31st April 3074
On New Haiti the Nova Cats develop the Armadillo Recon Tank design. The tank is based on a Scout Tank used by the old ComStar’s Explorer Corps, the Cavalier. The Armadillo is a thirty-five ton wheeled tank design capable of top speeds of almost one hundred kilometres per hour and mounting a Large Pulse Laser and an Advanced Tactical Missile Launcher with nine tubes. Both weapons are mounted on three hundred degree turret allowing the vehicle to fire all round. First of Trials between Nova Cat galaxies takes place on New Haiti between Tau and Sigma Galaxies. Tau Galaxy long time garrison unit of New Haiti once again prove they deserve to be on New Haiti and are victorious.
Martial Olympiad Grounds
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
8th May 3074
The beginning of the Fourth Martial Olympiad on Defiance, in the Federated Suns. At the head of the Opening Ceremony newly revealed Leader of the Crucis March Duke Paul Bowman of Tikonov opens the ceremony. The former Mercenary warrior has adjusted well to his new task however it is to be expected from the offspring of the leaders of Tikonov and Achernar. As his honour guard the newly unveiled First Tikonov Cossacks Regiment wearing traditional AFFS Ceremonial armour.
Galatea Hiring offices
Former Free Worlds League
10th May 3074
On Galatea Colonel Harold Kerr formerly of the First Chisolm’s Raiders Regiments forms the Broken Sword Mercenary Regiment. A full Regiment of Mechs, Battalion of Armour and another of Infantry all former members of the AFFS drummed out of service by Victor Steiner-Davion following the Varnay Crisis. Most had escaped court martials and long prison sentances by AFFS commanders wanting to sweep away the Varnay Crisis and forget it. Out of sight out of mind they didn’t care where these men and women ended up as long as they were not in the Federated Suns. This new mercenary command sign a three year garrison contract with the Rousset-Marik Alliance.
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Graduation Ceremony, Albion Training Academy
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
12th May 3074
As Captain Damien Redburn completed his Advanced training at the Albion Academy in Avalon City Damien felt very alone, because he had first gone to a Training Battalion he was older than most of the cadets graduating, and because of his family history many thought he was far beyond their station and kept their differance. His father had died in the Varnay Crisis and his mother was too ill to travel to the Graduation Ceremony, almost all his other siblings were busy with their own lives. Looking at the other cadets happy with their families Damien only wanted to walk away, he already held a rank and had seen real combat this was all just for ceremony. He knew what these people and their families would go through, it wasn’t glamorous, it wasn’t noble, it was tough, dirty, deadly work.
“Well Captain, do you have a command yet?†A voice asked behind him Damien turned round and saw Leftenant-General, Prince’s Champion, Ross McKinnon former commander of the Fox’s Teeth Company and Special Operations Group now the current commander of the Fourth New Avalon Guards Regimental Combat Team.
“Sir†Damien answered snapping to a salute, around him he noticed several other cadets follow suit Ross smiled sheepishly and saluted them all.
“The question stands, Captain.â€
“No, sir, I have yet to accept an assignment. The Kommandant has given me a choice of assignments within the Davion Brigade of Guards, I believe he said Bishop Sortek had a position open with the First, however I’ve not chosen a command yet.â€
“The First is little more than ceremonial, still rebuilding from the Varnay Crisis. If you want real action I’d go further down the Brigade’s order of battle the Assault Guards or Heavy Guards. I’ve spoken to the Academy’s Kommandant and he indicated that perhaps you’d be more suited to another command.†Ross said pushing the issue a bit further without playing all his cards.
“I understand, General†Damien said quietly.
“I’m not sure if you do Captain, I’m offering you a position within my new regiment, we’re not as battle-hardened as the Davion Guards or as Elite as other commands that could offer you a position, but we’re growing and becoming more organized everyday and we’re almost guaranteed to be involved in the action. I’m offering you a company command, maybe not the Fox’s Teeth but something along those lines.â€
“I have to admit I’m interested, General†Damien said quietly “if I accept would you be willing to let me try something a little different?â€
“Which is?†Ross wondered, he’d seen Damien’s scores they were high even after only a year at Albion so he was more than willing to listen but there were limits even for him.
“I’d like to recreate Delta Company - first seen in the Davion Light Guards and then the genesis Morgan Hasek-Davion used to create the First Kathil Uhlans.†He noticed McKinnon’s worried glance, thinking perhaps Damien had found visions of grandeur in his studies. Damien was good, potentially very good, but he was still pretty green and he was by no means Morgan Hasek-Davion, not yet. “Don’t worry commander, I don’t want my own Regiment†he said smiling “I just want to make a mark, a command that I can forge into something greater than the sum of its parts, a command my father would be proud of. And that would fit into your command.†Damien said pleading for the chance to prove himself.
“Okay Captain, we’ll see what we can do†Ross McKinnon said, this was what his command had been created for, the future prospects of Delta Company and of the Fourth New Avalon Guards RCT’s exploits looked brighter by the day.
Hidden Factory
Baltazar III, Lyran Alliance
Periphery
15th May 3074
Although their reinforcements had arrived over a month later than originally planned the Gray Death Legion received a welcome bonus to the end of their contract on Baltazar III. The Lyran researchers who had been discovering the secrets of the former-Word of Blake factory decided to award the Legion, commanded by Baron von Glengarry Colonel Alexander Carlyle, a bonus for keeping them safe. Before Alexander’s DropShip boosted off planet the engineers provided him with four C-MK-O Malak OmniMechs, these Mechs were brand-new designs never seen before built deep in the factory, weighing in at thirty tons they were some of the lightest Mechs from the factory. These Mechs had been modified lacking small cockpits and the advanced C3i Computer originally mounted on the Mech instead they had more common technology.
Taurian Military Academy, Taurus
Taurian Concordat, Periphery
20th May 3074
Standing in front of the Taurian Military Academy Marshal Cham Kithrong watched as Erik Martens-Calderon joined the military of the Taurian Military Academy. Unlike many young men and women he has no intention on being a MechWarrior instead enrolling with the Infantry Corps - intent on transferring to the Armoured Infantry Command and joining one of the Taurian Concordat’s small but growing number of Battle Armour units.
The boys father Jeffery Calderon had died on Detroit and his mercenary MechWarrior mother had died years before, in some ways Cham had become the boy’s guardian and his sponsor to the Taurian leadership before the fall of Grover Sharplen. Now he was like the proud parent watching as Erik stepped into the Taurian Military. As Erik was yet to graduate the academy and would be busy in his studies Cham would continue as Protector-Regent running the battered periphery nation.
Clan Jade Falcon and Wolf territory
Glory, Kerensky Homeworlds
Clan Space
25th May 3074
With both Clan Wolf and Jade Falcon weakened by the Nova Cat assaults earlier in the year and both Clans demoralized by the Nova Cats claiming of so much technology both Clans position on Glory is precarious. Neither has been willing to even test the others borders with a single warrior fighting Trials against the other. Instead of allowing this to continue in the Kerensky Cluster Clan Steel Viper chose to act taking eight Clusters from throughout their Touman, including the brand-new First ProtoMech Assault Cluster, they launched a full assault on both Clans on Glory. Nearly copying Clan Nova Cat’s assault method they attacked all the Clan forces on the planet.
Though it cost them the 131st Phalanx Cluster of Nu Galaxy Clan Wolf’s forces were routed by the end of May with the Fifth Wolf Garrison Cluster was laying on the fields of combat disbanded by the Wolf Clan leadership.
Zenith/Nadir Point
Coventry System, Coventry Province
Lyran Alliance
28th May 3074
Following several years of work and utilising brand-new weapons developed in the Inner Sphere the two Olympus-class Recharge Stations in the system come back online. Although they are still unable to resist a dedicated WarShip assault the stations are armed with several newly developed Sub-capital missile, laser and canon systems which are more than capable in dealing with any assault DropShips or heavy fighter assaults.
Work begins on upgrading and finishing building the Bastion-class Space Stations closer to the planet these are planned to be completed in six years and like the Olympus stations they are intended to utilise Capital and Sub-capital weapons as well as their conventional weapons arrays.
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First Star League Games
Star League Stadium, International Zone
Solaris VII, Lyran Alliance
1st-8th June 3074
From the first of June to the 8th June the first in what would become a new annual event taking place at the Star League Stadium on Solaris VII. This free-for-all tournament would be run as twenty, twenty warrior battles with the final on the 8th. The competition begins with a company vs. company battle between the Royal Black Watch Regiment of the Star League Defence Force and the First St Ives Lancers led by First Lord Kai Allard-Liao piloting Solaris Favourite Yeng-lo-Wang the Allard-Liao‘s specially modified Centurion. This is Kai’s first time on Solaris since the time he won the championship in 3057; he shows Solaris that he hasn’t lost any of his talent in the arena defeating four SLDF warriors personally as he leads his troops to victory in the arena. This battle although bloodless and not at all a competitive one is a perfect spectacle for the opening this new event.
In the next eight days there is a magnificent display from warriors representing every faction in the Inner Sphere, Periphery and Clans. In the end a former-Free Rasalhague Republic pilot named Lisa Haskin her specially modified Berserker Assault BattleMech who rips other Mechs to pieces with her Triple Strength Myomer enhanced hatchet, thunderbolt missile launcher and PPC enhanced Mech. Although these games have only a single competition completed immediately the games have won the hearts of Solaris VII pundets with gamblers and commentators noting that this year was just a pathfinder game the following year everyone would know what was expected and there would be a proper competition.
 
Objective Raid
Tikonov, Crucis March
Federated Suns
18th June 3074
With the Federated Suns moving their day-to-day running of the Crucis March to Tikonov the Capellan Federation sees this as a personal affront to the memory of the Tikonov Trade Federation, a formal Capellan territory, Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao orders an attack on the command-and-control centres on Tikonov sending the Chancellor’s Pride, the fully operational Thera-class Carrier taken from the Free Worlds League Remnant. Escorting this massive vessel are Elias Jung and the Ilsa Huang, two Feng Huang-class Cruisers, in all three fifths of the Capellan naval might.
In the system they encounter the FSS Tikonov, a Fox-class Corvette, and the FSS Admiral Kenneth Jones, a Hound-class Corvette, fighters and long range naval laser fire from the two Feng Huang-class Cruisers cut down both Corvettes in short order. From space fighters and assault DropShips engage the Federated Suns ground forces and their facilities causing significant damage to the on planet garrison however the Capellan’s run of the system is short lived, before Capellan Ground forces can jump in to secure the planet from the pinned in Federated Suns forces more AFFS Admiralty vessels arrive in system.
Entering via a pirate point near Tikonov and led by the FSS Damien Hasek, a Congress Block II-class Frigate, the main threat comes from the paired Avalon-class Cruisers FSS Lucian Davion and the FSS Andrew Davion. In system Capellan forces turn towards the incoming Davion forces though the Capellans have heavy fighter forces the Davions have more DropShips and heavy capital missile arrays. As the Capellans approach the Davions cut down four DropShips with heavy naval fire while capital missiles strike against the Thera-class Carrier and its fighters cutting down the numbers of aerospace fighters while moving in.
The Capellan Confederation task force commander not willing to engage the Davion WarShips in direct combat sends his fighters and DropShips against the Federated Suns WarShips while their WarShips burned for the Nadir point. While this was successful in tying up the Federated Suns WarShips it cost the Capellans almost all their fighters and DropShips. Also the Elias Jung still received enough damage from the Lucian Davion caused the vessel to be unable to jump clear from the system. The single Feng Huang charged at the three Davion WarShips, long range missile fire from the three Federated Suns vessels and closer in Naval Autocannon fire overwhelm the Elias Jung’s armour, its lasers proving ineffective against the Federated Suns WarShip armour.
Following the battle the Federated Suns begins work to reinforce the defences around Tikonov, its obvious that the Capellan Confederation are still very interested in securing the world and ending Federated Suns rule of the world. Field Marshal of the Crucis March Duke Paul Bowman spends slightly more of the worlds budget on stronger defences for the world, including researchers into SDS systems around the Inner Sphere and from the past.
Clan Wolf territory
Horad, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
28th June 3074
Following the Nova Cat attacks against Clan Wolf and Clan Jade Falcon their weakened position calls Trials from across Clan space however no-one strongly contests them until Clans Star Adder and Clan Stone Rhinos both enter the system. Unlike the Nova Cats who were looking to gain revenge for the attacks on their capital the Star Adders and Stone Rhinos were looking for territory and for the destruction of the Wolf forces on planet. Within twenty four-hours the Wolves are retreating off planet in a very easy victory for Clan Star Adder and Stone Rhino.
Dagda, Foster
Stone Rhino and Star Adder Territory
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
29th June 3074
With the Star Adders and Stone Rhinos attacking other Clans and the invading Clans continuing to meddle in the Homeworld Clan’s business Clan Steel Viper and Clan Coyote decide enough is enough and take matters into their own hands. Firstly in the Dagda system the Second Viper Guards Cluster of Clan Steel Viper’s Alpha Galaxy landed on the planet and engaged the Fourteenth Assault Cluster of Clan Stone Rhino. In five hours of fighting the Stone Rhino unit ceased to be and the Steel Vipers had gained nineteen percent of the world.
Almost at the same time Clan Coyote’s Great Coyote Spirit, a Nightlord-class Battleship entered the Foster system escorting the Ninth Strike Cluster of Beta Galaxy. In a brief trial of possession the Coyote force obliterate two Trinaries of the Seventeenth Strike Cluster of the Star Adder’s Delta Galaxy absorbing another Trinary of warriors into their Cluster as Isorla along with five further percent of the territory on Foster.
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Throne Room, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th July 3074
Today was a day Victor Steiner-Davion wished he was not First Prince of the Federated Suns; Commanding-General Duke Morgan Hasek-Davion had arrived on planet three hours before on the other side of Avalon City and was slowly making his way through the city. “How long? Galen†Victor asked Galen Cox one of his closest advisors and allies from as far back as their first meeting in the Twelfth Donegal Guards at the beginning of the Clan War.
“Duke Hasek-Davion’s escort has passed the outer marker, it seems he hit every traffic jam in the city, he should be here momentarily†the man said behind the throne, Galen had been a comrade of Victor’s since early in the Clan War until a failed bombing attempt on Solaris VII. He had officially died that day submerging himself in another personality, that of Jerrard Cranston. For a time allowing Katherine to think she had been successful hurt Victor only recently re-emerging as an AFFS Marshal with a close ear to the First Prince. Many people who thought they had known Galen and Jarrard had been surprised however Galen had retaken his position by Victor like nothing had happened.
“Thanks†Victor said, moments later the main doors opened and the two Infiltrator Mk.III Battle Armoured guards stepped to the sides allowing Duke Morgan Hasek-Davion to enter. He still wore the green uniform of the Star League Defence Force’s Commanding-General, however Victor knew he was not here for business. “Commanding-General, welcome to New Avalon, I hope your trip was pleasant enough?†He said trying to be welcoming, the look on Morgan’s face told the Prince that his visitor was not here for idle chat.
“Dispense with the pleasantries, First Prince Davion, we need to talk about my son.†Morgan said moving into the room, it was obvious he was angry, the two Infiltrator armour troopers took steps into the room but Victor calmly waved them off. Morgan was angry but Victor knew him well, this was a man that could never attack the First Prince, he may attack Victor but never the position. Despite the two being the same Victor would not allow the First Prince’s guards to fight his battles for him.
“I was sad to hear about his death†Victor said he wanted to add that he hadn’t wanted to order his death but had no choice.
“Don’t give me that, Victor, we both know you’re more a man than that and why my son died.†Morgan said stopping several steps from the throne, Victor rose to his feet and stepped down to Morgan’s level, the man was taller than the First Prince with broader shouldered and despite his years he was still strong. In a hand to hand fight Victor thought he could win, but hoped Morgan would not take this that far, time for a little honesty.
“Fine, I ordered his death†Victor said quietly “George was out for himself, he wanted to make the Capellan March loyal to him, independent of New Avalon’s control while happy to take our money to fund his arming process. He created a second Templar line on Kathil using funds he gained from New Avalon but spent in his name. He supplied the Varnay family with Mechs and personnel in their attempt to usurper that throne from my family!†Victor shouted pointing at the chair of the First Prince stepping closer to Morgan. “And you’re son defied orders from the High Command and from me. Instead of ordering one of our best placed agents in the Capellan Confederation to return home from operations once completed he ordered them to strike at Sun-Tzu Liao’s family which could have begun another Succession War shattering the Star League in the process. You ask me why I ordered your son’s death; I say it is because I considered him to be the most dangerous threat to this nation since your father, Michael Hasek-Davion.†Victor said hitting the Commanding-General with the hard truth instead of physical violence. “Morgan, I respect you and I cannot thank you enough for your support you’ve shown to my father and to me through my entire career. But the hard truth was your son had to be stopped and he had to be stopped by me. I am the First Prince of the Federated Suns and I will protect my family’s position and our realm as long as I breathe air in my lungs.â€
“I could have talked to him, I was on Kittery, I could have brought him back to the Davion side of thinking, to your thinking, I could…†Morgan said continuing on beginning to realise what his son had began to journey towards, something he had seen but ignored. Looking at the aged Commanding-General Victor felt sorry he’d had to do what had been done and saw Morgan’s world begin to collapse around him. “My son was no traitor…†He suddenly said defiantly “he was a patriot of the Federated Suns!†He shouted raising his arm to swing at Victor however this was as far as he got as he stopped in mid-air clutching his chest, fighting for breath as his legs gave way under him collapsing in front of the First Prince.
The First Prince of the Federated Suns surged forward grabbing the New Syrtis Duke before he hit the ground, Galen a step behind him and both Inflitrators move further into the room. “Get me a damned medic!†Victor nearly screamed however Morgan was already slipping away whispering something Victor leaned down to him and listened “you’re son cared for the people of the Capellan March and of New Syrtis more than anything.†He whispered back before the Star League Defence Force’s Commanding-General passed away losing consciousness. As medics arrived and began to look over the fallen Commanding-General, Victor pulled back giving them room, Galen looked to him wondering what Victor had been told
“What did he say?†Galen enquired; though it may be a private matter he could see that Victor wanted to say something.
“That my father would be proud of me, and that everything he was and what his family had done was for the Federated Suns.†He said looking over to the Marshal and close friend.
“A patriot to the end†Galen replied a fitting slogan for Morgan Hasek-Davion if there ever was one.
“He was a hero of the Federated Suns and of the Inner Sphere†Victor said “and he will be remembered as such. We have lots of work to do and little time for it.†He said as the medics removed Morgan’s body to the palace medical facility where he was officially pronounced dead. Three days later after his family had been informed and had time Morgan’s death was officially announced to the Inner Sphere via the Star League Defence Force and New Avalon.
Throne Room, Hasek Family estate
New Syrtis, Capellan March
Federated Suns
14th July 3074
As she walked into the Throne room Deborah Hasek felt the weight of the Capellan March land on her she had never expected to reach a higher stage in life, she’d been a general in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns, a member of the New Syrtis Command no less, which had always been enough for her. Now she was standing in the Hasek Family estate the same estate the Hasek family had replaced the Varnay family as rulers of New Syrtis and of the Capellan March centuries before. Ahead of her was the Hasek Throne, dominating the room, though not as glanderous as the Davion throne on New Avalon it was still an impressive, almost scary, sight.
“Quite a responsibility you take†a familiar voice said from behind her, it was Nathaniel Hasek George Hasek’s cousin.
“Yes, I’m not sure if I’m ready for it, it should never be mineâ€
“No-one is ever sure, if you hold true it never will you are but a Regent.†He said moving forward reminding her of her duty.
“You should be the one that takes this position†Deborah said “you have the Hasek blood by right.†She said ready almost willing away the responsibility.
“And George’s heir Kym is your daughter and Morgan‘s rightful successor. You have the experience in life Deborah.†Nathaniel reminded her of her daughter the future of the Capellan March “and I am happy to remain as military commander of the March and offer all support I can.†He said “ but that throne is your place, this is your home now. You are the one who will carry our family’s future.†He said saluting his new duchess, leader of the Capellan March Deborah Hasek.
Filtvelt
Filtvelt Coalition, Periphery
21st July 3074
With Morven and Memphis systems defecting from the Federated Suns to their small coalition the Filtvelt Government led by Marquees Helen Trempealeau announce that there will be a planetary draft to fill out their militias and increase the size of the Filtvelt Guardians to a second unit. As there has been increased activity from the Pirate’s Cluster and both Clans Nova Cat and Snow Raven are active in the area there is very little complaint or resistance within the Coalition towards this move as they see the security of their small nation the most important thing.
Northwind Renegades Base Camp
Northwind, Tara
Star League Protectorate
30th July 3074
Following less than a month of rest and refit on their Homeworld the Northwind Renegades Regiment commander Lt Colonel Jeremiah Rose accepts a second contract for his unit. Following a year on the Clan border the unit has several new Clan Battle and OmniMechs and several new Lyran and Kell Hound designs instead of taking another heavy combat mission the Renegades instead accept a contract with the Star League Defence Force defending the Star League Protectorate worlds. During this mission they will also be training local forces and conducting manoeuvres building unit cohesion again before they take another combat mission.
On Northwind the First Ghurkhas Battle Armour Battalion remain on planet, unlike before when they accompanied their Renegades. Instead the Ghurkhas retreat deep within the Highlanders military compounds far from prying eyes. Within their TO&E can be counted several Clan Battle Armour suits, two squads of Kobold Light Battle Armour of the SLDF and four suits of light armour named the Djinn Battle Armour these suits are of an unknown manufacture. Also within their TO&E is an Aurora-class DropShip which the claim the found in the periphery however it is in pristine condition and only recently under manufacture in the Lyran Alliance. The Northwind Highlanders rebuke any question of the origin of their new technology.
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Star League High Command
Kittery, Capellan March
Federated Suns
3rd August 3074
Following a slight delay in respect of Duke Morgan Hasek-Davion’s passing the SLDF Advisory Council on Defiance and the SLDF High Command on Kittery confirm that General Archer Christifori, from Thorin and commander of the First Division will be the new Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force. Accepting this position on Kittery Archer announces that armour commander Vladimir Rostov, of the Second Brigade, will take over direct command of the First Division. Rostov says he will continue to command the Division from the Second Brigade, as Archer Christifori had when he commanded the First Division.
Cloud Cobra Territory
Nouveaux-Paris, Deep Periphery
8th August 3074
Using the First Brotherhood Cluster, of Alpha Galaxy, Clan Nova Cat strikes back at Clan Cloud Cobra’s occupation of Nouveaux-Paris Colony in the Deep Periphery. The on planet garrison, an under strength one hundred-and-twenty-fifth Dragoon Cluster, of Epsilon Galaxy in Clan Cloud Cobra was no match for the former Brotherhood of Randis warriors led by Star Colonel Lucas Beckett. Although they were able to cause casualties on the Nova Cat warriors due to the inexperience of the Brotherhood Cluster Warriors costing them equipment and warriors. To ensure the world is no completely secure the Nova Cats assign the Second Brotherhood Cluster, of Rho Provisional Galaxy, to the defence of the world as well.
Pirate Point
Liao, Liao Commonality
Capellan Confederation
15th August 3074
At the best known pirate point in the Liao system of the Capellan Confederation the FSS Pegasus, the Federated Suns repaired Columbia-class Battleship, the WarShip Alexander, the Wolf’s Dragoon’s Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, and three Invader-class DropShips entered the system detaching their DropShips. The FSS Pegasus and Alexander began moving in system escorting the DropShips towards the planet, onboard them were the Wolf’s Dragoons Beta Regiment and Zeta Battalion, attached to the Pegasus were four near empty Conquistador-class DropShips, it was the classic snatch-and-grab operation. The Capellans had withdrawn themselves from the Star League so, no-one would be interested in standing up for them.
In orbit the two WarShips were met by eight DropShips, three assault ships, two Vengeance-class Carriers and three troop carriers that had been drafted in by the defenders. As the two WarShips and their fighters engaged the defenders the Wolf’s Dragoons ground troops and the four Conquistador’s headed towards the planet beginning the ground campaign. “Admiral, the Capellan fighters are making runs at our DropShips†the sensor operator reported from one of the upper stations, the Pegasus’s round bridge was built over three levels with the command crew in the centre at the command holo-tank.
“Understood, direct all fighters to the defence of our DropShips and of the Dragoons vessels, we can handle our own defence for a bit. Main gunners target those DropShips, I want them all gone. Communications copy same orders to the Alexander.†The vessel’s commander Admiral Blaine Webster ordered he had commanded the FSS Charles Davion, a Davion III-class Destroyer, for three years before transferring to the Pegasus just after the Varnay Crisis. As the fighters turned away from the WarShips to defend the descending DropShips Capellan fighters began straffing the WarShips increasing the damage the capital ships were taking but also buying the DropShips protection that they needed to land on the ground.
“Aye, Admiral†the commander of weapons control said turning to his other command officers they in turn passed the word to the ship gunners and within moments the forward four Heavy Naval Particle Projection Cannons engaged the Capellan defensive DropShips an Avenger and a Union ceased to exist in moments.
“Sir, additional Capellans rising from the planet the Alexander is turning to engage, they are ignoring our ground fprces.â€
“Continue attack.†Blaine said watching as the Dragoons WarShip turned to engage the incoming Capellans. Naval autocannons lashed out and an incoming Capellan Overlord was shattered in an instant. From behind the Overlord came several fighters charging through the wreckage towards the Alexander, one fighter was knocked out of the air by an impact from some DropShip armour falling back towards the ground, “magnify on those fighters†Blaine ordered pointing at the fighters moving towards the Aegis the Holotank’s imager focused on the Dragoon Heavy Cruiser, the advanced sensors of the Columbus-class Battleship detailed each fighter acutely, under each of the fighters wings was a pair of long missile shaped weapons - external ordinance. “Communications contact the Alexander, order her to target those incoming fighters, ignore all other targets!†The Admiral ordered realising exactly what the fighters were carrying. The Alexander’s gunners targeted the fighters with barracuda capital missiles two of the remaining five fighters were blown to pieces however three continued on, the Alexander’s Naval Cannons and missiles would take a few moments to reconfigure to target fighters and that could be enough for the Capellans.
As the moments ticked by Blaine watched as the remaining Capellan fighters closed and fired six missiles. Six single missiles launched from a fighter against a WarShip would normally be no threat to the larger vessel but Blaine knew they were trouble as soon as he saw the missiles. Though weapons fire was coming online against the fighters the missiles were all launched, three of the missiles went off target however, even as the launch craft were destroyed, the other three missiles struck the Alexander. There was a ripple of explosions over the Heavy Cruiser as the explosive force from the missiles were felt, they were a new Anti-Ship Missile for Aerospace Fighters Blaine had seen plans for them at NAIS, and it was general knowledge that the Capellan intelligence agencies had successfully gained the plans, however he had never seen one in practical use.
The missile impacts hit with the power of thirty conventional missiles, one missile stuck a Naval Autocannon on the Alexander’s bow blowing the entire weapon housing clear of the ship. “Someone owes the Dragoons a major explanation for this FUBAR.†Blaine whispered quietly enough for no-one else to hear, the DMI should have known the Capellans had this kind of technology on hand before they authorised such a mission.
“Admiral, DropShips on the ground, the Dragoons ground forces are setting up a perimeter, techs and engineers are moving in on the factories. Dragoon ground commanders reporting heavy resistance from the Holdfast Guard and Warrior House Ijori, but that they can hold. Typical brass-balled Dragoons.†The Communications officer reported, in space things were starting to calm down around the Pegasus.
“Let’s make sure they can be just so confident.†Blaine said “have air-wings Alpha and Bravo enter the atmosphere and engage the Capellan Ground Forces and communication centres.†He’d give the Dragoons as much support as was capable of. “Have wings Charlie and Delta set up a defensive net around the Pegasus and Alexander.†He said the last thing he needed was for the Capellans to surprise them again. “We are going to hold this position and any Capellan stupid enough to rise off that surface will be destroyed.â€
Over the next hour and a half the Federated Suns fighters supported the Wolf’s Dragoons as Federated Suns techs claimed nearly a regiments worth of BattleMechs and vehicles from Capellan Confederation factories. The Dragoons lost nearly half a battalion of forces however that was recovered in salvage direct from the factories. The Federated Suns on the other hand captured several Capellan OmniMechs and several Mechs utilising Stealth armour systems enough for them to copy and reverse engineer on a wider scale. All in all a successful raid however it had been a lot more costly than the DMI had expected and the Dragoon WarShip required major repairs following the battle.
Northwind Highlander’s Facility
Spaceport, Tara
Northwind, Star League Protectorate
23rd August 3074
Although Northwind was an open world and there were no real restrictions for the population there were some areas where the local defenders, and mercenaries, had for themselves and the people stayed away. One such area was the planetary spaceport though not as vast as many spaceports in the Succession States it was more than capable of holding a dozen large DropShips and several hundred smaller craft and fighters, however, at the back of the facility near the command base of the First Kearny Highlanders Regiment was an area for Northwind Highlanders DropShips and fighters only. From here the mercenary regiments born and bred on Northwind and ready to fight in her name anywhere around the Inner Sphere and beyond could gather and reach out to the stars, it was also the location of the Northwind Air Guard, the fighters that formed the on stand-by forces that would defend the planet and system in the unlikely event of an attack.
Commander of Stirling’s Fusiliers Colonel Andrea Stirling looked out over her regiment as they formed up and headed into their DropShips, though they could just as easily form up on the Fusiliers base camp it was more symbolic for a Highlander regiment to leave Northwind from the main spaceport. From behind Andrea she felt a presence and immediately turned “I see the Cat has not lost any of her grace or speed.†Colonel Edward Stenn commander of the First Kearny Highlanders and oldest of the Regimental Commanders, Andrea smiled at hearing her nickname it had been quite a while.
“Well we canna have our Elders sneakin’ up on us†she said “thank you fer coming t’ see us off.â€
“It wiz t’ least I could do Andrea†He said smiling “t’ see a Colonel leave on her last tour is the duty of any Northwind citizen, especially a Colonel.â€
“It’ll be quite a tour…†She said quietly the Fusiliers were due to ship out to the Star League Protectorate supporting the Northwind Renegades already taking up assignment on New Canton supporting SLDF efforts there. “And though it’ll be my last it winna be the Fusiliers last, I can promise you.†She said, the regiment had been formed around her through sense of will and Edward knew that it was here wish that it remained as a staple of the Highlanders and as her legacy to the Northwind Regiments.
“I’m sure it won’t.†Edward said formally “however, I would hope you come back to us to enjoy your retirement?†It was her choice to retire, no-one enforced a Northwind Colonel into retirement but Andrea had surprisingly chosen to leave at the top and enjoy some time for herself.
“I’ll be sure to, Northwind is where my heart is.†She promised him throwing Stenn a salute, the elderly Colonel returned her salute.
“Keep that Rose in line too.†He said with a smile because two Northwind Regiments were being deployed to the same contract Andrea, as the senior and more experienced officer, would also be in command of the Northwind Renegades if the situation brought them both together.
“Definitely†She promised with a wicked smile turning and heading down a nearby gantry, within minutes of her leaving the gantries were removed from the DropShips and one by one the vessels began to launch from Northwind’s surface.
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Regional Command
Glasgow, Skye
Isle of Skye, Lyran Alliance
4th September 3074
In a general meeting of commanders from units throughout the Isle of Skye Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner informs all units and regional militias that they will be receiving a lower amount of annual funding from the Isle of Skye Command. Though there is general unrest at this however Robert soon announces that the funding saved will be placed towards the funding of a new shipyard facility that will be built in the Gladius System providing the Lyran Alliance and the Isle of Skye another source of WarShips. The Fourth Skye Guards RCT are transferred to the Gladius system to set up defensive areas where resources for the shipyard can be stored safely. This entire move is made without the Lyran Alliance High Command, on Tharkad’s, knowledge and is purely a Isle of Skye project.
Mercenary Training
Arc-Royal, Arc-Royal Theatre
Lyran Alliance
10th September 3074
After completing basic mercenary operations and forming a double battalion of MechWarriors and Armour crews form together to become the Splinted Shield. These warriors are almost all former FedCom officers and NCOs and very quickly become a strong fighting force. They are accepted by the Lyran Alliance to strengthen the Lyran border.
Admiralty’s Office
Fox’s Den, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th September 3074
On orders from the new Commanding-General, Archer Christifori, Fleet Admiral David Natale travelled to the Federated Suns to speak with Fleet Admiral Andrea Petain, commander of the Federated Suns Admiralty. Under orders of Commanding-General Archer Christifori he was there to negotiate for the possession and purchase of a Davion Block III-class Destroyer. Travelling to New Avalon aboard his own WarShip the SLS Shining Claw, a Congress Block II-class Frigate, David was proud to represent the Star League Defence Force and to do this particular duty.
“So Admiral, you wish to purchase a WarShip from us.†The Davion Fleet Admiral asked surprised, although she knew the First Prince would not be against the news the idea of the Star League beginning an armament process was worrying.
“Aye Admiral, in the same way the First Star League increased its numbers this Star League would like to purchase a WarShip from the Member States to build our strength.â€
“And why would you want such strength? The Star League was reformed to protect the Inner Sphere from the Clans, so far the Clans have not deployed massive amounts of WarShips against the Succession Lords instead limiting operations to a couple of vessels at a time. Now we see the Star League growing in strength and numbers, and taking control of worlds that our states used to control.â€
“We have formed a protectorate where there was chaos; we are protecting worlds that were falling apart. Our numbers are gaining because we are brining together a force that can protect these worlds and help the Succession Lords protect their realms from the Clan menace. We are standing to the ideals of the last league.â€
“And what happens when these ideals stand in conflict with that of its member states†Andrea asked, the First Star League had meddled in the member state affairs as often as it liked, it had the power both political and military to do so. The fear of course was if the new League gained that strength then there would be little to stop it from returning to this type of operations.
“We also have another reason for wishing to obtain this particular vessel†David said explaining the reason for the purchase of the WarShip “Morgan Hasek-Davion has died.†He said looking at the Federated Suns Admiral; the Commanding-General had died on this planet, on top of this very mountain, in the Palace of the Davion House Lords. “We want to purchase this vessel because we want to honour our fallen Commanding-General. We believe that buying a Davion built WarShip would be a way to honour the Federated Suns born Commander of the reborn Star League.†He said passionately Andrea nodded.
“As you would be aware Admiral, I don’t have the authority to allow this purchase to go ahead myself. I have spoken to the First Prince and the High Command about this and they have authorised me to pass control of a Davion Block III-class Destroyer to the Star League’s control. I have secured the FSS Duvall for this purpose; it is in system or will be by the time you return to the SLS Shining Claw.â€
“And the price?†David asked knowing that they would likely have to pay through the nose for such a purchase.
“We want two billion C-Bills.†She said David was surprised to hear they were expecting such a low price, he’d expected another five or six billion this was afterall a WarShip. There had to be a catch “we would also like salvage rights to the CSWS Fire Fang.†She said naming the Whirlwind-class Destroyer the ComGuards had originally captured from the Ghost Bear Clan during the Star League’s Operation Bulldog. The vessel had been disabled by Terran defences during the liberation of the world from the Word of Blake. The SLDF had plans to recover the vessel at some point and try to refit it however there were other vessels that were far further up the chain for work first.
“That vessel is a drifting hulk. We have scavenged its weapons and it has been stripped of almost everything useful.†Because the vessel was so badly damaged the SLDF Engineers had used much of its weapons to for other vessels.
“Exactly it is worthless to you; also if you go back through the vessel’s history you’ll find it is a former Federated Suns vessel sold to the First Star League during the Reunification War. We want it back. As a lifeless, useless hulk it is perfect for our work which is to bring it back into service with the Federated Suns Navy.â€
“And you want to just move into the Terra system and salvage the craft?â€
“Yes, we will come with non military vessels entering at standard points and escorted by SLDF craft if you believe it is necessary.†Andrea said “we want this craft, if you want to honour Morgan Hasek-Davion this is your price including the two billion C-Bills.†She said laying down the ultimatum.
An hour and a half later David Natale left New Avalon returning to the SLS Shining Claw, alongside it was the FSS Duvall, the vessel that would become the SLS Morgan Hasek-Davion in a very short time, the Star League had made their deal with the Federated Suns when they were ready Federated Suns vessels were clear to move into the system.
Nadir point, New Samarkand System
Galedon Military District, Draconis Combine
30th September 3074
Following several jumps through unnamed and uninhabited systems the time for the taking of their revenge was at hand the Nova Cat Clan was ready to give the Draconis Combine the biggest surprise of the history of the realm. On the early hours of the Thirtieth September 3074 the entire Santin West Naval Star entered the system escorting the Clan’s Flagship the Severn Leroux. The Nova Cat vessels spread out throughout the Nadir point weapons systems activating the six vessels immediately began scanning. “Open a frequency the Combine will pick up.†Khan Canin Rosse ordered from the Holotank within moments one of the Nova Cat officers nodded “Draconis Combine defenders this is Canin Rosse, Khan of Clan Nova Cat. Your vessel the Pride of New Samarkand assaulted our merchants in the Periphery; you have brought our wrath on yourselves. I bring six WarShips to this Trial; I await your counter bid.â€
“Clansmen you are unwelcome in this system. We will not bid against you we will destroy you.†The response came back nearly immediately from the Olympus-class Recharge Station local to the Nadir Point and four Battlesat surrounding it turned their targeting systems onto the Nova Cats. Four medium-class Naval Lasers from the Battlesats bracketed the Path of Glory, a Vincent Mk.42-class Corvette, the smallest vessel of the Nova Cat force. The lasers cut into the corvette’s port armour in several areas however they did little penetrating damage, the Olympus-class Recharge Station then opened fire with missiles, lasers and autocannon all of which were targeted on the Path of Glory again the ship was bathed in fire but weathered it and remained in place six fighters were also launching from the station.
The Path of Glory launched its own four fighters and powered its forward guns two Barracuda Capital Missiles hit the first Battlesat engulfing it in fire. Next the Path of Glory’s port and starboard Naval Autocannons fired destroying two more Battlesats as the Olympus fired its conventional guns again bathing the corvette in more conventional weapons fire. From the bridge of the Severn Leroux Canin Rosse was tempted to interfere these barbarians had no sense of honour however the Path of Glory’s commander seemed to have things under control. “Begin burn in system, we are not needed here.†He said looking over at Star Admiral Anders McKenna, the vessel’s commander, who nodded even he could see the Path of Glory was more than a match for the local defenders. The five remaining WarShips began to move away from the Nadir point burning directly towards the system’s shipyards, the Nova Cats real targets.
The final Battlesat fired on the Nova Cat Corvette causing more armour damage however another barrage of Naval Autocannons silenced the station destroying it in an instant in and around the Olympus the Draconis Combine fighters were being finished off by the Nova Cat fighters. “Clan vessel we surrender, do not fire on us!†A panicked voice from the Olympus broadcast, it wasn’t the same person as before, it was also too late two Barracuda missiles slammed into the station destroying one of the DropShips attached to it, the resulting explosion ripped through the station as various fuel and ammunition stores exploded. Within moments the entire station was reduced to pieces smaller than family vehicles drifting away from each other and towards the system’s star.
“Severn Leroux, Path of Glory, hold position at the Nadir point and secure our exit corridor engage Combine vessels at will.†Anders McKenna said the corvette was damaged enough to make it voulnerable to further fire.
In System, New Samarkand System
Galedon Military District, Draconis Combine
2nd October 3074
Moving deeper into the Nova Cats encountered the DCS Wisdom of a Warrior, a Tatsumaki-class Destroyer, the vessel immediately declared a Trial against the Nova Cat WarShip Star. The Bloodlust, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, moved forward of the other Nova Cat WarShips answering the Tatsumaki’s challenge. In the opening salvo a Heavy Naval Gauss Rifle slug slammed into the heavy cruiser’s forward hull tearing open hull plating setting the tone of the fight. The Bloodlust turned into the Tatsumaki’s attack run returning fire with capital missiles and autocannons. The Tatsumaki continued its run closing firing naval autocannons and naval Particle Projection Cannons in response to the Bloodlust’s weapons. In and around the two craft DropShips engaged and around them aerospace fighters from both sides fought for supremacy, the Nova Cats heavier numbers in both fighters and DropShips was proving too much for the DCMS forces and soon they were routed and in retreat or trying kamakazi runs against the Bloodlust. At the same time the Draconis Combine vessel was launching further small craft these full of marine battle armoured troopers, it was clear to the Nova Cats the Combine vessel was not only looking to stop the attack force on its own but also capture the Heavy Cruiser it faced.
In an effort to keep the Destroyer busy and gave the Bloodlust time to its move, the Combine commander either inexperinaced or thinking the Nova Cats could be trying their own boarding move turned slightly and concentrated on the incoming DropShips. In a hail of naval weapons fire the Tatsumaki tore two Nova Cat DropShips and several fighters to pieces in seconds; this gave the Bloodlust its moment to turn their full broadside weapons onto the destroyer. The multiple Naval Autocannons tore through the armour and into the inner structure beginning a chain reaction the resulting explosion tore through the destroyer gutting it in an instant. As their mother craft exploded the single remaining DropShip, three aerospace fighters and ten of the small craft set collision force with the Bloodlust, the heavy cruiser, its remaining two DropShips and six aerospace fighters turn on the incoming Draconis Combine craft annihilating them one by one, unfortunately two of the small craft slammed into the left side of the heavy cruiser causing heavy damage. With such heavy damage the Bloodlust was retired from battle moving towards the Path of Glory at the nadir point unfortunately the impact of two small craft on the Bloodlust had allowed sixteen Combine battle armoured marines to board the heavy cruiser, soon the troopers were discovered by Nova Cat security and an onboard battle began.
These fanatical elite troopers were more than a match for the crew of the Path of Glory, unable to fully utilize their Elemental armour in the close confines of the Heavy Cruiser’s hull. After sixteen hours a large explosion rocked the port side of the Bloodlust as one of the Combine battle armour troopers reached the capital missile launcher ammunition stored there, the resulting chain reaction wiped out the remaining Draconis Combine troopers, the Nova Cat defenders and the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Bloodlust.
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Director’s Office, Doumeijouyaku-class Spacestation
New Samarkand Shipyards, New Samarkand
Galedon Military District, Draconis Combine
3rd October 3074
The day after the destruction of the Bloodlust the Nova Cats, more than ready for full combat arrived, at the shipyards and were immediately faced with six assault DropShips, including two Union-class Troop Carriers modified with Capital Missile Launchers. Supporting these ships were several aerospace fighter wings but they are all quickly brushed aside by the combined fire of the three Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruisers and the Future’s Triumph, a Vincent Mk.42-class Corvette.
Two hours later Khan Canin Rosse stood inside the Director’s office aboard the local Doumeijouyaku (Alliance)-class Spacestation looking over at the Shipyard’s director, an old man with a proud looking face who continued to stand behind his desk despite Canin’s calls for him to sit, the man still wore a Samurai’s sword he claimed the Coordinator had given it to him but looking at him Canin doubted that he’d ever been a warrior. “So do you think the Coordinator will allow you to remain here at one of the Combine’s most important worlds?†He taunted “an entire fleet will be sent to lead in your destruction.â€
“I’d be surprised if your Warlord could muster a fleet to stand against us. Your most powerful vessel the Musashi is at the Luthien shipyards undergoing repairs following its battle with the Star Adder’s Absolute Truth and even if it wasn’t then we would destroy it.†Canin said confidently stepping towards the Director. “Now we will not be staying very long, we have no interest in occupying your world, but if there is any resistance we will turn these shipyards to slag and then turn on the planet below as well.†He threatened turning away at that moment Star Commodore Anton Bavros, executive officer of the Severn Leroux, entered the room “report Star Commodore†Canin ordered immediately before he lost more time on the Director.
“Sir, we have discovered several capital ship weapons ready for fielding on WarShip class vessels, fourteen nuclear tipped Killer Whale Missiles and this…†He said handing over a pad of paper showing that at one of the yards was the Stellar Serpent formerly a Star Adder Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser captured when the Star League Defence Force pushed the Star Adders and Smoke Jaguars clear of the Inner Sphere during Operations Bird Dog and Bulldog.
“Director, where is this vessel? We will be taking it off your hands, a nice replacement for the Bloodlust and payment for your realm’s assaults on our merchants.â€
“The spoils of the Draconis Combine’s victory against the Clans will not be handed over so easily.†He said defiantly his hand on the sword’s hilt though he did not appear to be planning to draw it.
“Fine, we shall find it ourselves. Star Commodore order our Elementals to scour the shipyards for this vessel. Until we find it we start clearing out warehouse nine, three and two.†Canin said naming the warehouses that held the nuclear weapons and the capital weapons, though the Nova Cats had no real use for the nuclear weapons they’d remove them from a Succession State that may be very happy to use them. “If they cannot locate the WarShip quickly order them to be liberal about what they destroy.â€
“You cannot have our weapons arsenal; these are our weapons and have been from the time of the Star League.†The Director said moving round the table drawing his sword; Canin looked at the man with complete disdain “I will fight for the Draconis Combine’s sovereign right to own.â€
“You cannot even challenge me correctly.†Canin said drawing his hand-held pulse laser pistol and shot the director in a moment the Star Commodore looked at his Khan with a slight amount of shock not expecting him to gun down the Combine Director with so much lack of honour.
In System, Nova Cat Fleet
New Samarkand System, Galedon Military District
Draconis Combine
5th October 3074
Two days later the Nova Cats had located and secured the Stellar Serpent, which had been docked at the far end of the shipyard in a darkened bay, they had also removed all the nuclear weapons and several capital weapons from the warehouses. Before abandoning the shipyard moving back through the system heading towards the Nadir point. En Route to the jump point the Severn Leroux detected fighters from the Zenith Jump Station engage the damaged Path of Glory still sitting at the Nadir point damaged in the opening battle. The fighters catching the Path of Glory off guard quickly over run and destroy the Nova Cat Corvette.
In response the Santin West, Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, altered course heading for the Zenith point instead of the Nadir. There it engaged and destroyed the Zenith point Recharge Station and all the Battlesat defence stations before exiting the system with the other remaining ships of the Nova Cat assault force. The Nova Cats return the Nova Cat’s Den with the captured Stellar Serpent while Khan Canin Rosse takes the Severn Leroux to Defiance in the Federated Suns to witness the end of the Martial Olympiad and meet with First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion to broker a trade deal. During the battle the Nova Cats detected several massive hulls all inoperable but rivaling the Battleship Musashi in size, Rosse had been tempted to order their destruction but that was beyond the bounds of honour, he had challenged the Combine to a battle, they had provided him with one and lost, he would be gracious in victory. Nova Cat analysts were looking over all the vessels trying to figure out if they were a new Battleship class or if they were purposed for other operations.
Secret Marian Hegemony Shipyards
Marian Hegemony, Unnamed Asteroid Belt
8th October 3074
Deep within the Marian Hegemony the periphery realm secretly brings the Lothario, a Galley-class Corvette online using resources they have captured from the Free Worlds League and that they have mined from the germanium rich asteroids around the shipyards system. This vessel although weak compared to Inner Sphere of Clan Corvettes is one of the most powerful vessels in the region and it moves to join the MHS Caesar together these vessels form quite a formidable force in the region able to resist anything other than a dedicated force from the Free Worlds League or the Lyran Alliance, this makes the Marian Hegemony one of the most powerful of the Periphery Realms.
Fourth Martial Olympiad
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
24th October 3074
As the final battle of the Fourth Martial Olympiad contest was being fought on the Olympiad grounds First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Khan Canin Rosse were talking in an observation booth. To any outside observer this would not be too strange as during the Olympiad people from all states had mingled with others. “Well Khan Rosse, I must say I’m impressed you moved through the Draconis Combine’s territory raided one of their most secure shipyards and captured a Heavy Cruiser. However, you should be careful when a Clan shows how much better they are than their Inner Sphere neighbours they can make themselves a target.â€
“Anyone that wanted to make the Nova Cats a target they will find they have made themselves a whole lot of trouble and hurt that they do not need. Many of my troops would welcome the battle.†Canin said looking at the fighting below where the forces of the Federated Suns were trouncing over forces from Clan Wolf (in-Exile), it was obvious from the positioning of the Federated Suns forces that they would be victorious even though their Clan opponents were causing lots of damage. Deeper in the system the Snow Raven Clan’s Lord Death, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, had for the second time running won the WarShip event of the competition this time the Nova Cats had not entered instead concentrating on operations against the Combine. Even if they had the Nova Cat Khan was unsure if they could beat the Lord Death’s crew who seemed extremely proficient.
“I’m sure that would be true, and allow me to assure you to that the Federated Suns would not take part in any such campaign†Victor said trying to assure the Clan Khan, though the Federated Suns could probably mount such a campaign the entire military force of the AFFS would be required and likely gutted by the fighting opening them up for further attacks from the other Succession Lords.
“I am sure you would not after all I would not agree to trade weapons and equipment to you if I thought you would attack us.†He replied, the Sea Foxes were making massive amounts of profit from the Inner Sphere trading entire BattleMechs, why shouldn’t his Nova Cats make something in trading weapons.
“I’m confident that our generals will continue to support our relationship with your clan with the continued trade of combat equipment and the jobs gained from the production and mining of the materials that will be traded to your clan.†As part of this deal the Federated Suns would receive Clan grade weapons in exchange for natural resources mined by Federated Suns miners. A deal which would increase the power of the AFFS and provide plenty of labour work.
“Then it is settled?†Canin wondered out loud watching as the final Clan Wolf (in-Exile) BattleMech fell in battle.
“It is†Victor answered.
“Congratulations on your victory, First Prince Victor†Canin said “I expect our first natural resource delivery to arrive very soon. Your weapons will be shipped soon afterwards and delivered wherever you want them.â€
“I will have a location delivered to your embassy.†Victor promised
Season Grand Final
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Isle of Skye, Lyran Alliance
31st October 3074
“Game fans it’s been a long season and we’re at the end ready for this final battle, the one and only event on Solaris VII, The Big Game.†The commentator said to the millions of fans throughout Solaris VII and the rest of the Isle of Skye “This year the final event has been moved to the Star League Stadium, although it cost an arm and a leg in sponsorship funds for Steiner Stadium the game organizers wanted to give the new Star League Stadium centre stage, so here we are. The stadium is packed we have sixteen MechWarriors on the floor and battle is about to commence. Season favourite, merc turned game king, Spectre in his customized Daishi OmniMech is waiting for the start as are we all, eighteen thousand people are crammed into the stadium with millions more throughout the Isle of Skye watching and waiting for fireworks.†He said continuing on as the clock ticked down, five seconds, four, three, two “and It’s Action Time!â€
All the BattleMechs on the ground opened fire almost at one causing mass fireworks with Mechs felled almost straight away “And straight away things are off to a cracking start, Games hopeful Alex Heiate’s Mauler was one of the first to fall. But Spectre is still going and it looks like he’s well ahead of the game. He always seems to bring his best to these games and few others can match his firepower. Seems like he must have the skills on the battlefield as well as in the arena as he never seems to be lacking in the weaponry.†On the ground the Mech competitors were gunning down each other dodging and firing throughout the miniature map of the Inner Sphere. The entire stadium suddenly shook “well game fans it looks like these games are rocking even the stadium…†the commentator started to say but was interrupted as a massive fireball engulfed the seating area behind House Kurita’s Pink Cherry Blossom fields “…oh my god…" he stuttered "I don’t know what to say…" he said "I can't believe what I'm seeing, I don't know if you can see this at home. An entire section of the stands has exploded into fire. The fighting below us has stopped in the Star League Stadium… the fires are spreading engulfing the area where people sat. I don’t know what has happened... it really could have been anything. We’re going to go off air for a while, ladies and gentlemen please say a prayer for all those people, this is a dark day on Solaris VII.â€
The fans and warriors who had watched and fought in the games had streamed out allowing emergency services in, they had been able to get most of the wounded clear and bring the fires under control in short order. Clearing the way for investigators. Fifteen hours later the police forces on Solaris announced that a terrorist bomb had been the cause for the fire. Hospital forces reported that over three thousand civilians had been killed in the fire. Solaris Game Organisers called the season void with no winner, the Lyran Alliance called in support from the Star League Intelligence Command and called in the Northwind Renegades as part of an SLDF Peacekeeper force.
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LAS Ian McQuiston , Near Gabriel Space Habitat
Odessa System, Isle of Skye
Lyran Alliance
8th November 3074
Admiral Jonathan Kerr looked at his guests and shook his head, for this wild goose chase he had Loki Agent Anton Gramash and Colonel Tasha Snord of the Snord’s Irregulars Mercenary Command, on his bridge. “It’s the biggest waste of Lyran Tax payers money ever!†He'd said, his WarShip was not a plaything for Loki's little games. “There is nothing out here, the Intel is wrong" he continued. "If there was a massive space habitat in one of our systems we’d have noticed it by now.†He said trying to stress the point, on Odessa they had found a Star League Memory Core in it was information that led them to the middle of the Odessa system behind the outermost asteroid ring and the biggest gas giant.
“Our intelligence is over three hundred years old" Tasha agreed "But the Star League Defence Force were very good at hiding things in plain sight.†Tasha Snord said her Irregulars had led them to the information, and they had been well paid with almost a full battalion of advanced SLDF BattleMechs, now she wanted to see what the LIC wanted to get there hands on.
“Why are you even here?†Kerr asked the mercenary commander “you have been well paid for your discovery.†He said, he was no fan of mercenaries or of the current leadership that put all their faith in them.
“We want to finish this, find our place, end this treasure hunt.†Tasha Snord said “this isn’t about the find now, I just want to see it.â€
“Well, I think you will be disappointed Miss Snord.†Kerr said looking at the Colonel “Sensors, what do we detect? If anything…†He said quietly not looking away from his guests.
“Nothing sir…†the sensor operator said looking at the display then back to the Admiral then back to the display “Admiral, strike my last†he said “we have contact, by the Unfinished Book, it’s massive†he said as the Fox-class Corvette LAS Ian McQuiston cleared the gas giant’s radiation field to reveal a massive habitat built into the side of a massive asteroid. “It’s massive the length of that opening could hold a Yggdrassil-class Battlecruiser." He continued "it looks like some of the facilities have been removed but we are detecting habitats that go deep within the asteroid.
“Deploy DropShips!†Kerr ordered immediately on edge, “are there any active sensors?†A station that size would likely be armed to the teeth and if it was active then its sensors and Electronic Warfare capabilities would far out stretch anything in the Lyran Alliance.
“Nothing.†The sensor operator reported as all five of the Ian McQuiston’s DropShips launched from the Fox’s circumference. Even with the five DropShips Kerr wondered how they would secure such a station.
“Have the Mech Carriers rig their Mechs for EVA, all marines be prepared to board that monster. I want it searched, scanned and secure in the next ten hours.†He said it would be a hard ask but still things needed to be done.
“Well Agent Gramash, Colonel Snord, you opened a can of worms today.†He said looking at his guests who returned querulous looks. “You really think the other Succession States or the Clans will allow us to hold onto this prize, it is a relic of the Star League, the data held aboard it could preside over a whole new technological revelation. They will want a piece of it and our government will want to keep it. This could trigger another Succession War.†Kerr said there was no glee in his words, though they lived in a universe of conflict it was not something to be treasured.
“We will prevail†Gramash said quietly confidently Kerr dismissed it as pure Loki self confidence nothing based on it except a history of success. Unfortunately not everyone was as good as the Loki.
“If the Lyran Government involve the Star League and have a SLDF presence on the Gabriel structure or on Odessa then there will be no problems.†Tasha Snord suggested.
“It's a Lyran find, we shouldn't need to involve others." Kerr protested then saw Gramash's face "We’ll see what happens†he didn’t want to see a Succession War but he intended on giving the Lyrans the first bite of the habitat. “And we have touch down.†He said as the first BattleMech, a Highlander Assault BattleMech, struck the habitat. There was no resistance no active sensors nothing, it was a derelict. It would take days to secure the entire asteroid and explore it all but Kerr had a claim to make "by international salvage rights I, Admiral Jonathan Kerr, of the Lyran Alliance Admiralty Starship Ian McQuiston claim this habitat as part of our realm and ownership.†He said on a broadband frequency so all in the system could hear, it was official now the rest would remain to history.
Proving Grounds
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
14th November 3074
As the Nova Cat warriors put their newest vehicle through its paces the saKhan of Clan Nova Cat watched. The SM-5 Missile Tank Destroyer was the latest of the series and carried two massive twelve-tube Advanced Tactical Missile launchers mounted forward backed by four turret mounted Extended-Range Micro Lasers for armament on the same hover chassis as the other vehicles of the SM series, in Jal Steiner’s ear the scientists were speaking of taking the craft to its next logical phase - making the vehicle an OmniTank. As he watched the vehicles move and engage older vehicles salvaged from the Periphery or retired from duty within the Touman Jal Steiner still did not understand the fascination with vehicles his Clan had recently begin to explore the Hell’s Horses placed massive stock in them but he considered the BattleMech to be king, not this small diminutive vehicle.
OmniVehicles were expensive and it would mean training troopers in using multiple configurations just like the difference between BattleMechs and OmniMechs. Jal had seen the Hell’s Horses Epona OmniVehicle and the Draconis Combine’s Shrillton, which used a similar method both were very effective weapons systems and though deployed in small numbers they both had a marked increase in power over other craft also recently the Nova Cat military had taken to more and more vehicles, probably because Canin Rosse‘s unit had been heavily mechanized. Thinking quietly and watching as the last target was destroyed Jal Steiner turned to the scientist and nodded, it was time the Nova Cats had an OmniVehicle design of their own and why not honour the SM-series with such a base. However he did stipulate one design move that could not be changed on with the designers, the tank received a proper name not a number and description. Work would begin immediately.
Capellan March Border
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns/St Ives Compact
21st November-14th December 3074
With any resource you use it or you lose it this was a well known statement to First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and he decided to use his resources while he had them. With two Regiments and two Elite Battalions of Wolf’s Dragoons at his disposal Victor picked the periphery border worlds of Mitchell, Menke, Jacson, Yuris, Zanzibar and Madras for the strikes deep into the Confederation.
Supporting the Dragoons were the WarShips Melissa Davion, Avalon-class Cruiser, Jason Hasek and Nathan Duvall, both Congress Block II-class Frigate, the Capellan March, a Davion Block III-class Destroyer, the New Syrtis, a Fox-class Corvette, and the Kathil, a Hound-class Heavy Raider. This fleet of six vessels was commanded by Fleet Admiral Victoria Napier commander of the FSS Melissa Davion.
For the ground assaults the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT, commanded by Capellan March Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek, supported by the mercenary regiment Khorsakhov’s Cossacks, The Fourth Deneb Light Cavalry RCT supported by the Ninth Illician Rangers Mercenary Regiment, the First Crucis Lancers RCT were tasked with supporting the Dragoon’s Alpha Regiment and Zeta Battalion while the Fourth Crucis Lancers RCT would support the Dragoons Beta Regiment and Wolf Spider Battalion.
Against them they faced off against the Fifteenth Dracon Regiment of the Capellan Confederation’s Citizen’s Honoured Brigade, the First Canopian Brigade and St Cry’s Armoured Hussars both of the Capellan Brigade, the Second McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry of the former mercenary brigade and the Sung’s Rangers of the Victoria Commonality Rangers.
The first attacks landed on Mitchell and Yuris with both worlds falling to little resistance, the Fourth Deneb Light Cavalry and Ninth Illician Rangers securing their positions. However following attacks were far harder repulsed. On Menke the Alpha Regiment and Zeta Battalion of the Wolf’s Dragoons found the First Canopian Brigade and the Second McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry following almost two weeks of stalemate fighting it seemed the Dragoons would have to call for reinforcements however a Capellan Headhunting Stealth Lance ambushed and destroyed General Maeve Wolf’s command Lance. The Wolf’s Dragoons turned from warriors almost into feral creatures taking down two battalions of McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry in less than two days when the third Battalion escaped off world making it to a nearby hidden JumpShip the Dragoon’s surviving commander called in orbital support from the orbiting FSS Capellan March. The Davion Block III-class Destroyer shattered all six of the remaining DropShips still on planet with a ferocious display of naval firepower on the spaceport killing nearly fifteen thousand locals as well as laying slag to the spaceport. The remaining First Canopian Brigade died to the man unable to retreat off world and the Dragoons unwilling to accept any surrender.
The only other fighting to occur during this fighting was on Zanzibar and Madras as the Fifteenth Dracon battled the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT, which needed reinforced the Khorsakhov’s Cossacks and the Fourth Crucis Lancers RCT on Zanzibar fighting the St Cry’s Armoured Hussars and a counter attack from the Sung’s Rangers regiment. The Fourth Crucis were forced to call for assistance from the Wolf’s Dragoons Beta Regiment and Zeta Battalion to complete their mission and force the Capellans into retreat.
On the 29th November the St Ives Compact’s Second St Ives Lancers supported by the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment - on loan from the Federated Suns. Launched an assault on Hustaing defended by Vong’s Grenadiers Regiment. The St Ives troops supported by the Federated Suns mercenaries captured the world in quick order repaying the Capellan Confederation for the damage done during the Capellan Solution Crisis during the Inner Sphere’s operation’s against the Clans.
On the 5th December a Capellan DropShip armed with Nuclear weapons penetrated the Menke system and engaged the FSS Capellan March with anti-ship missiles with Nuclear weapons the Davion Block III-class Destroyer was wiped out by the retribution strike equaling the slate for the lives lost at Menke spaceport during the orbital bombardment.
On the 12th December continuing hostilities the First Kittery Borderers launch an attack on Homestead intent on pushing the Ziliang salient however Capellan irregular forces led by an undercover Capellan commando Jason Zaklan counter the Kittery forces in a guerrilla campaign which results in more than a Battalion of AFFS casualties.
-
Clan Wolf Territory
Hoard, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
25th November 3074
In and effort to secure their claim to the position as the dominant Clan in the Homeworlds Clan Steel Viper assaults Clan Wolf on Grant’s Station. The 126th Strike Cluster of Beta Galaxy moved on the Wolves First and Thirteenth Regulars Clusters, Theta Galaxy, based on the world. Though the Wolves fought with great ferocity and did heavy damage to the 126th Strike they continuously retreated in face of a major encounter right back to the Wolf Clan’s primary Spaceport. One final Trinary vs. Trinary battle ended the Wolf presence on the world seeding full control to the Warden Clan.
A week later the Wolf move becomes apparent as the entire Clan Wolf Theta Galaxy abandons the Kerensky Cluster for the Inner Sphere heading for the Occupation Zones under heavy WarShip escort.
Throne Room, Celestial Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, St Ives Compact
3rd December 3074
It was a strange day on Sian there were thunderclouds above the Celestial Palace and on the Throne Room floor was a Clan Sea Fox Star Commander proud and strong, his defiance galled at Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao, he was the first true Clan warrior he’d seen in the flesh, Phelan Kell was not a Clanner nor were his pets. And to the Celestial Wisdom he wasn’t very impressive, skin and bone bleeding the same blood, breathing the same air.
The offer the Clansmen was laying down for the Capellans was an impressive one. The offer included the purchase of Clan BattleMechs, Battle Armour and HarJel replenishment as well as components for WarShips. There was even a possibility of upgrading of Capellan factories for production of better weapons and defences. The Clan’s price - a single Capellan world for them to use as a trade world to supply the Capellans with their weapons and equipment, and for them to garrison their people on - one thing that Sun-Tzu was unwilling to part with, he’d fought long and hard for the rebirth of a stronger Capellan Nation and he wouldn’t pass over any single world without a fight. He’d briefly considered a Magistracy world, the thought of marooning a Clanner in the Periphery did sound quite funny but he guessed that neither Naomi or the Clanner would agree to those terms.
“Your offer is a good one. However I’m not looking to turn over a whole world to you, this is the Capellan Confederation not one of the other Succession States. We are stronger when we have all our parts working together.â€
“Then perhaps our deal is unworkable? Chancellor, the Sea Fox Clan is offering your nation technology a generation ahead of what you currently operate. If you are unwilling to embrace this offer then perhaps we cannot deal with one another.â€
“Perhaps we cannot in its current incarnation, but perhaps a slight change.†The Chancellor suggested, he wanted the technology offered, he’d need it to fend off the Federated Suns and the Wolf’s Dragoons not to mention the periphery located Clans.
“What kind of changes?†The clansmen asked
“I’d be willing to lease your Clan a continent of one of our worlds? In exchange for the same terms offered?â€
“Neg, Chancellor, you give us less and we’ll give you less. Perhaps we build a production/storage facility on the planet and sell you equipment at cut down prices however; we will not be upgrading your factories or providing you with WarShip components.â€
“We will be providing you with territory in the sovereign nation of the Capellan Confederation and all you will be willing to provide is BattleMechs that are passed their Clan sell-by-date? I think you have over-estimated our resolve, we will continue on with what we have instead of dealing with you clansmen.â€
“Well Chancellor we could provide you with clan technology, advanced battle armour technology and perhaps we could speak about future factory upgrades. If initial deals were to go well anything would be possible.†The Clan officer said “which world would you be thinking of giving us a place on?â€
“Sarna, it’s central in the Capellan Confederation and close enough to the centre of the Inner Sphere for it to be useful for your Clan.â€
“Sarna would do us grandly, we’d be honoured to garrison such a world and bring it back to the glory it once held.†He said before turning and leaving the throne room without another word, Sun-Tzu smiled, his pet-clanners would do what he wanted, finally the Capellan people would have a level footing with their neighbours. And if the Clans got out of line, he always had a stockpile of nuclear weapons and officers willing to sacrifice all to use them.
Ruling Council Meeting
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
8th December 3074
It was the second time they had all come together however this meeting was different and Marshal (Baron) Cham Kithrong, leader of the Taurian Concordat, was not a happy man. “Marquees Trempealeau I’d like to know what you are doing with these little animals!†He said looking over at the guest observer, “the audacity of them being here sitting at this negotiations. Their people have killed thousands of innocent people!†He said staring at the impassive woman.
“Baron Kithrong, they are here because they are our neighbours, they are your neighbours, the sooner you wake to that reality the better it will be for the Concordat. It was not their people who killed innocents; it was other Clans not the Nova Cats. They are not all the same and from what I have seen they are far from animals.†The leader of the Filtvelt Coalition said quietly looking from the Nova Cat representative to the Taurian leader. “Today they are here under my invite, but they are here to observe nothing more. They are not here with weapons of war; I believe there is less than two dozen of them even in the system. They will be welcome to join us and interact with us in this coalition and at this meeting. If you are unhappy to stay here with them and talk amongst them then you are welcome to leave. But beware I believe they would just as happily meet you with weapons drawn than with words.â€
“I shall stay, the Taurian Concordat will not be blind while you talk with our potential enemies, and Nova Cat you are our potential enemy. For you there is no Ares.†He said quietly the Taurian Concordat had only recently signed the Ares Convention Protocols with their reintegration into the Star League Council however with Kithrong’s words he’d ruled the Clans out of this agreement.
“Nuclear fire used against our forces will be the end of your nation.†The Nova Cat officer said quietly her voice full of menace and anger even Cham Kithrong felt a shiver run down his spine. The Nova Cat’s were dangerous they may use words like civilized nations but they may as well be animals. As the three nations continued to speak the Nova Cat warrior remained passive as he observed them, the Nova Cats were players in this area now as well. The presence of the Clan warrior was a quiet reminder that they were a player in this world now and that the Federated Suns had turned a blind eye to their presence. The Outworld Alliance had fallen under Clan rule and there was even rumours that the Capellans had made deals with them, was there anywhere the Clans had not touched Kithrong wondered.
Plains of Lootera
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
22nd December 3074
After almost three full years on Huntress Colonel Sandra Barclay of the Seventy-first Light Horse Regiment of the SLDF finally tracks down Star Colonel Colton Pryde the Jade Falcon officer that killed Colonel Paul Calvin commander of the Nineteenth Striker Regiment. In a one-on-one battle Sandra kills Colton Pryde he also forces the Jade Falcons to accept Hegira and retreat off planet, opening up their entire territory to the rest of the planet. All the Clans surrounding the world and with any assets on planet immediately began trials to take over what the falcons had abandoned.
Stellar Serpent (Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser)
Varnay Anchorage
Varnay System, Nova Cat’s Den
31st December 3074
Walking the command deck of the badly damaged Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Star Admiral Anders McKenna, commander of the Nova Cat’s Navy and directly of the Severn Leroux, the Clan’s Flagship, shook his head. The vessel formerly known as the Stellar Serpent was in a word, a mess, it had once been a proud addition to the Star Adder’s fleet then the Star League Reborn had battered it along with the Smoke Jaguar navy. The Draconis Combine had moved it to New Samarkand and stripped it of all weapons, only the barely functional Kearny-Fuchida Jump Drive, a similarly set up transit drive were functional a total of seventy-five percent of the vessel was inaccessible without an environmental suit.
“The vessel is in a poor state, how long would it take to return it to its former state?†He asked the lead engineer.
“Best estimate six months, a year on the outside Admiral.†The engineer said “however, we’ve had another idea sir.†He said his contractions were annoying but Anders had come to accept them as he and his teams were some of the best engineers his Clan had ever had. Even with all their quirks and their freeborn nature.
“What idea is this Chief Engineer?â€
“Admiral, in conjunction with our Clan’s scientists we have developed a new Aegis, an upgrade that will bring new technologies into the navy and update the vessel.â€
“And how much would this cost our clan?â€
“It would halt development of our assault DropShip program however the resources are in place and even in system.†He said looking at the Admiral “the vessel would be ready for deployment by the time of the Star League’s next Martial Olympiad†just under a year.
“And how competitive would this vessel prove?†The Admiral asked, there was no point in halting a program just so this one would succeed if the vessel was not going to be competitive.
“Very competitive once our warriors are used to the new weapons they will be asked to use this vessel would no longer be an Aegis, it would be far different but at the same time the same.â€
“You speak in riddles Engineer!†Anders shouted loosing his temper, he like all Nova Cats preferred plain speak.
“I apologise Admiral†he said in moments however Anders was sure this freeborn was not he knew his skill was necessary for the Nova Cats and was happy to exploit this little piece of power inside Anders he respected it. “The vessel’s capabilities will be in far excess of it’s present form it will be capable of really damaging a target at range as well as damaging it up close†he said traditionally the Aegis was an autocannon WarShip capable of ripping another vessel to pieces in close range however it was woefully at long range, this vessel would remove this weakness. “The vessel will also be a terror to aerospace fighters very capable of destroying anything but a dedicated assault.†He said Anders nodded it would be nice to see if this was true, the Nova Cats had many Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers if it was possible to upgrade them then they should do so. But first this ship would need to prove its worth, without proof of its capabilities the ship would likely remain an experiment, still a better fate than rusting in a Draconis Combine Shipyard.
“Then Engineer, I say we employ your little experiment. See if this vessel is able to do what you say. And if it is then the future of our WarShip fleet may also change.†Anders said, he was rarely in the Varnay system nowadays instead he was with the Khan escorting him aboard the Severn Leroux but it was nice to return to the prize system every now and then.
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Between me and you...
Into a new year and a year that I personally think the timeline properly takes its own place. When I originally wrote it I wanted to establish new characters, new nations and new paths for some of the canon ones but this year. Everything's settled and we can start to explore where things are a bit more. It takes on more of the Inner Sphere and Periphery and begins to expand more stories.
I hope you enjoy.
Dragon Cat
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As promised into a new year with a darker side of the Inner Sphere's new guardians - a ship that never got launched in canon - and a "gift" for the Capellans
3075
International Zone
Solaris VII, Isle of Skye
Lyran Alliance
8th January 3075
Following nearly two weeks of terrorist attacks on Solaris VII ranging from car-bombs to sniper attacks to long gunmen, the Northwind Renegaders Mercenary Regiment under the command of Jeremiah Rose and under Star League Defence Force contract declare martial law.
All games on the world are permenantly suspended until the crisis is resolved and any Mech seen on the street without authorization is impounded by the Renegades. Within a week a company’s work of such “illegal†Mechs have been seized by the Renegades, however, the network of supply tunnels on Solaris makes it nearly impossible to stop them all. Despite martial law people still make there way to underground games off the regular gaming grid.
Although aware of such activities Rose and his Renegades allow them to go ahead knowing that they are a release from the tension caused by the current law status. During such events Rose also posts an entire Battalion of Renegades close to the area ready to pounce on anything that gets out of control or any further terrorist activity. At the same time Rose and several of his warriors infiltrate the games searching for evidence that would lead them to those behind the game troubles.
During this time a series of arrests are made regarding the recent activity and the Star League stadium bombings making an anxious public more at ease. Following a general vote Solaris petitions to be granted Star League Protectorate status and have Star League troops permenantly garrisoned on the world. The Lyran Alliance diplomat corps almost have a heart attack at the news, Solaris had been a cash mule for the State since its inception, however none could argue with the Star League’s successes. A compromise is quickly reached as Solaris’ population demand a quick resolution and a return of the games. The Lyrans would still take away a large percentage of the profits from the Solaris games and control all gaming rights but that the SLDF would be given a permenant garrison of the world and control over large protions of the regular activities on the world.
Surprisingly the SLIC take possession of all arrested persons regarding the terrorist activities claiming they had all been found guilty of crimes against the Star League – namely the bombing of the Star League Stadium. These individuals disappear from all records in the Inner Sphere, when the Lyran prosecutors ask for access to them regarding other Lyran crimes they have been implicated in the Star League claims their JumpShip disappeared in an accident and that a search is being conducted however there is never any word on the discovery of the missing vessel or its criminal cargo.
Aten Family Residence
Skye, Isle of Skye
Lyran Alliance
14th January 3075
In front of Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner and Duchess Hermonie Aten stood General Caradoc Travena of the Star League Intelligence Corps in his hand he held a dossier of the Star League investigation of the terrorist attack on Solaris VII and the ongoing trouble on the planet. With the Northwind Highlanders Mercenaries enforcing martial law despite a limited games schedule being restarted. “Duchess, Duke, in my hands we have a full report on what happened on Solaris VII and our findings on the situation. We have arrested several individuals all with links to Free Skye unfortunately their transport JumpShip has not been found since its last jump. The Highlanders remain on the world controlling their actions, and with the Archon’s blessing an SLDF unit will be on the planet from now on.â€
“A pretty price they have cost us†Robert agreed “Free Skye has become the scourge of the Isle of Skye†Robert said quietly looking at his wife “I believe it may be time.†He said looking over at Hermonie she nodded the Isle could not control them any more, once upon a time they had both supported the movement that tried to drive the Isle of Skye and the Lyran Alliance apart by any means. “General, we would like to request Star League Investigators and Special Forces teams to assist Isle of Skye and Lyran Alliance Intelligence and Special Forces.â€
“In doing what Duke Kelswa?†Caradoc asked he was a native of Coventry originally and knew all about Kelswa’s claim to the formal holdings of the Tamar Pact, and his dealings with the Free Skye Movement, he wanted the Duke to say what he wanted. If the SLDF would be required to act he wanted the words spoken.
“I want you to assist us in hunting down the Free Skye Movement and ensuring it is no longer a threat to the Lyran people and the people of the Skye.†Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner said effectively putting the first nail in Free Skye’s coffin.
“I will take these requests to the Commanding-General, it may take a little time to make the full arrangements for deployment.â€
“We would also like to see any reports you gathered from the missing terrorists†Hermonie said quietly “General you must understand these were Skye nationals that you arrested and removed from Solaris. We thank you for your work in detaining these men and women, however their links may go deeper than just Solaris, and we would like to see the information gathered.â€
“I will ensure that is made availiable to you Duchess. As soon as the back-ups can be retrieved from our database†Caradoc said carefully “much of the primary data on these terrorists was lost aboard the JumpShip.â€
“I understand Herr-General, just one further question, were were they being taken?†She asked Caradoc knew from her words she had already checked into the SLDF JumpShip. Accidents were rare on JumpShips, especially those making short jumps.
“As a security matter I cannot disclose its destination other than it was within the Protectorates borders.â€
“Of course, General, any information you can provide would be appreciated.†She said with a small smile. The Star League had gained a foothold on a Skye world, a foothold they would not give up quickly. If Hermonie was a suspicious woman she’d almost think that the SLIC had fingers far deeper into the Solaris Troubles than just being the saviours they claimed to be.
SelaSys Inc. of Loyalty Shipyards
Loyalty, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
20th January 3075
Launch of the MSCS (Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Starship) Corrine Marik, a Venturer-class Light Cruiser, from the SelaSys Inc. Shipyards in the Loyalty system. The launch of this Light Cruiser is intended to counter the threat posed by the Capellan’s Feng Huang-class Cruisers and is the first of this class of WarShip to be completed, it is also the first WarShip ever to be built at Loyalty and the first Marik-Stewart Commonwealth WarShip to be completed since the fall of the united Free Worlds League.
 
Celestial Palace, Throne Room
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
28th January 3075
Entering his throne room with a pair of Red Lancer Regiment Bodyguards Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao was not a happy man, from what he had heard his day was not going to get any better. His mad wife had brought his even more mad sister from Highspire, a world he was sentenced to live on for the rest of her natural life by the Star League following biological weapon attacks the St Ives Compact. If the rest of the Succession Lords found out about this breach his nation would face them all, they were already angry he’d withdrawn his nation from the Sham League, their wrath something his Capellan Confederation could not withstand.
On the floor he saw his son Dao-Shen Centrella-Liao sitting playing with toys, something Sun-Tzu never allowed and Naomi knew it, beside Dao-Shen was his sister Kali bound, on her knees with a bloodied gag covering her mouth. Despite all of Kali’s faults even she did not deserve this. On the Celestial Throne sat Naomi Centrella, his wife, in the golden robes of the Capellan Chancellor “Naomi!†He screamed “what is going on?â€
“Something that is for the good of the Capellan people†his wife said standing up, Dao-Shen looked up at his mother, Sun-Tzu did not like the sound of this and turned to his two guards before he could speak the worlds ‘arrest her’ Naomi spoke again. “But first we should be alone†she said almost at that moment a bolt energy caught each of Sun-Tzu’s Red Lancer guards in the back, the energy bolts burning through them killing them instantly. Sun-Tzu looked up from the bodies to see two Purifier Battle Armour Suits standing at the doorway; he had walked past them and never noticed the stationary troopers with their Mimic Armour suits. As their armour changed he could see the logo of the Centrella Black Guards - a unit he had raised to replace his Death Commandos - one of the most fanatical and elite units in the entire Capellan Nation. Even with their actions against his Red Lancers they could not refuse an order from their Chancellor but even now Naomi was ahead of him. “Guards, you can leave us now.†She announced, without words the two Purifiers stepped out of the room closing the Throne Room doors leaving Sun-Tzu alone with Naomi and their son.
“A little dangerous after that display, don’t you think?†Sun-Tzu said quietly he was well trained in defending himself, he may not be a very able MechWarrior but he was very adept at keeping himself alive, the reason he had a hold-out pistol in the small of his back one that he always carried even when in his own home it paid to be prepared in this home.
“Not really husband†Naomi said kneeling down beside Dao-Shen, he couldn’t have a clean shot if she remained near his son, his heir. “You see I’m very well prepared, I have seen this day a thousand times, from a thousand angles, from a thousand endings.†She said and with one swipe of her left arm Sun-Tzu watched as his wife killed his bound and gagged sister, slitting her throat with a well concealed blade, blood gushed from the wound for a moment then Kali’s body fell to the throne room’s marble floor. Bleeding out in front of their son who looked at the body with amazement and the growing red pool, to his credit Dao-Shen did not cry out in fear instead continuing to play with his toys.
“What have you done?†Sun-Tzu asked looking at the corpse of his sister “she was a member of the Liao Royal family, my sister, and the aunt of your child!â€
“I have wiped a stain from the Confederation’s name†Naomi said stepping forward “she was an embarrassment to your family name†she continued stepping forward face-to-face with Sun-Tzu. “You should have had her killed the moment you found out about her use of biological weapons. Or if not then you had every reason following your discovery about her deals with Cameron St Jamis and his Word of Blake.†Naomi continued “yes husband I know all about Kali’s plans, despite you thinking you had her under control and her plans in tatters, she continued to plan behind your back, continued to plot. One day soon, it would be her standing where I am, doing exactly the same things.â€
“Naomi, you are right I should have acted. But all this, why go to such lengths to prove a point?†He asked looking at her incredulously he could almost see the insanity behind her eyes. “Would you bring your son into this, is he a stain on the Confederation’s name, on Sian’s soil?†One of the reasons he had chosen her, over others including Isis Marik, to be his wife was she was the sanest of them all, she would add credibility to his family line once more. Could he have been so wrong?
“Well husband this is all about a new start for the Capellan people, new starts lead from new ideas, new ideas lead to new ways and from new ways you get a new leader.†She said Sun-Tzu never saw the strike coming as Naomi’s blade sliced through his robes and into his stomach, she then drew the blade backwards and struck again and again. Each time the blade sliced deep into his chest cutting skin, flesh and bone. Sun-Tzu’s world began to go dark; Naomi pulled back and crouched down beside her son beginning to play with some of the gathered toys on the floor as Sun-Tzu lost more and more blood dying on the floor of the Throne Room.
The next morning Naomi and Dao-Shen Centrella emerged from the Throne Room, the Red Lancer Regiment had been moved off planet, on orders written by the Chancellor, and Gao-shiao-zhang Ion Rush leader of the fanatical Warrior Houses had been killed in his sleep by Centrella Death Guard troopers. The entire leadership of a nation literally beheaded in one night. By the end of day one of her rule new Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation Naomi Centrella sent messages to the other Succession Lords informing them that the Centrella family were now in charge of the Capellan Confederation and the Liao family were a spectre of their past.
She also announces that she would be happy to invite any of her fellow lords to a good will visit to Sian and welcome in the new ruling family however none agree, instead formally refusing citing state business. By the end of January the whole Inner Sphere and the Star League council had accepted that Naomi Centrella was now the leader of the Capellan people, they had no choice, the Liao family was dead after centuries the Succession State had changed hands into the rule of a new family. Around the periphery there is a buzz as one of their own "conquerors" a Succession State.
Hope you enjoyed (as much as Sun-Tzu) ;D
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Press Conference
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
2nd February 3075
During a scheduled press conference on Sian to answer some Capellan concerns about the Centrella take over from House Liao an assassin attempts to attack Naomi Centrella by placing a bomb under her speaking podium. On of the Centrella Black Guards discovers the bomb before Naomi even enters the room, the bomb detonates prematurely killing almost three hundred people in the building including Duke Gregory Liao Head of the National Bank. Unfortunately he was a supporter of Naomi’s rulership and now Naomi is implicated in ordering his assassination.
In response for the stories being spread around Naomi orders one hundred known supporters of Free Capella publicly executed on Sian and on other worlds. She then orders several of the reporters who had suggested her involvement arrested and taken to locations unknown, virtually none are ever seen again.
Clan Wolf Science Caste Hall
Tamar, Clan Wolf Capital
Clan Occupation Zone, Inner Sphere
7th February 3075
The Clan Wolf Science Caste Hall on Tamar was a new edition to the Clan grounds on Tamar; it was another step towards the entire Clan moving its resources to the Inner Sphere Occupation Zone. Scientist General Kate walked over the floor of the main hall entering one of the new meeting halls where three of her scientists were waiting, the paint on the walls was barely dried and there was a strong smell of paint fumes in the room. Behind the table were Scientists David, Marissa and Henry were all waiting for her briefing “be seated please†she said, all three sat behind the desk. “Khan Vlad Ward has decided that if our Clan is to succeed in the Inner Sphere we should begin a weapons development program here in our new home. With the completion of this hall and of its adjoining facilities I have decided that we will begin with producing a series of new second-line BattleMechs that will power our Clan forward and protect our new holdings while the front-line forces of our Clan propel us to Terra.†She said defiantly, the Crusader Clan Wolf had never and would never give up its claim to Terra and would continue to fight until they got there and became ilClan, leader of all Clans.
“Wouldn’t we be better with spending time and resources in a new OmniMech or an OmniFighter, something to help motivate our front-line forces. The Clan leadership would surely accept that more than some more second-line cast-offs.†David protested, in the lower-castes of the Clans there was more dissention however rarely did they support the Trueborn front-line forces - unless their lives depended on it.
“The Khan has given me permission to select the project that I wish, I have chosen this project. The Clan will accept it or they will face the Khan’s wrath.†Kate said, she wasn’t sure if the Khan would back her plan, ever since Katrina had arrived from the Lyran Alliance things had changed between them. But she would stand by this decision as Scientist General of her Clan.
Forbidden City
Sian, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
18th February 3075
The capital world of the Capellan Confederation was cold to Naomi Centrella’s skin, she could feel Goosebumps on her skin, it had been the same since the fall of her husband Sian had taken a distaste to her. Today’s distaste had been the newest Capellan affront to her leadership Free Capella, which had died on Terra of all places supporting the Word of Blake, had re-emerged on Sian launching a full uprising against her leadership. The Centrella Black Guards guardians at the gates to the city had been overrun by almost an entire regiment of them - they were now crushing the remains of the Black Guards Second Regiment, all two battalions of it, the reformed Warrior House Imarra and the Centrella Black Guards first regiment were now at this moment fully engaged fighting for every metre of the Forbidden City and towards the city of Gungxi to the east.
Leader of the Warrior Houses, since Ion Rush’s death, Hadji Doru stepped up behind her. It was nice having him here; he was a second Canopian on a planet of Capellans his near fanatical loyal to her helped greatly. “How goes the battle?†She asked not even looking at him.
“Fine, Chancellor, we are victorious Free Capella are retreating their rebirth has been short lived. They are doing more damage as they retreat, we have found some evidence this may have been orchestrated by an outside force.â€
“An outside force?†Naomi asked, she had assumed Tormano Liao’s family, all of whom had disappeared, had orchestrated this. Why would anyone step against her - who would dare?
“During the fighting we have seen a company of warriors piloting SPT-NX Spartan BattleMechs, these are the same Mechs seen on several worlds throughout the Inner Sphere. They are doing more damage to our forces than anyone else. We have also spotted the Bounty Hunter in his Marauder II, these two independent forces have not struck at each other but they have both done severe damage on our forces.
“Hadji, find out who hired these vermin, and have them eliminated. And why the Bounty Hunter thinks he can operate in Capellan space. Have our WarShips shoot down any unauthorized DropShips launching whether they are civilian or military.â€
“We cannot contact our WarShip forces, the Free Capella forces targeted both the Forbidden City HPG and the general city HPG relays in their first strikes.â€
“What about the Palace’s own relays?†She asked the city had its relays but so did Naomi’s palace.
“Offline - an unknown source†Hadji reported, someone within this very palace was working against her, someone at the very source of her leadership.
“I have a job for the Warrior Houses Hadji. See to it personally.†She ordered handing him a file containing the orders Hadji didn’t even look at them instead he nodded and left. As soon as Hadji had left the room Naomi contacted the commander of the Blackguards and ordered a purge of the Royal Palace, anyone with any inclined loyalties to House Liao was to be brought out into the courtyards and publicily made an example of.
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more...
Fort Winson, Eridani Light Horse Command
Dieron, Dieron Military District
Dieron Prefecture, Draconis Combine
11th May 3075
Looking over the parade grounds Edwin Amis saw the troops of the newly reactivated Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment, the unit had taken some looses recently namely the loss of their commander Paul Calvin to the Jade Falcons on Huntress and then on their return trip to the Inner Sphere their JumpShips were attacked by unknown WarShip forces. He turned to the microphone ahead of him and addressed the men and women assembled “Officers and Enlisted men and women of the Eridani Light Horse, you have done well.†He started, he knew that many would not feel that way but he had to start somewhere. “This Regiment came within a hair’s breath of a being demobilized permanently following an attack that it could never have suspected or expected to repulse. You have all made sure that did not happen, and that makes me very proud, you have trained together and brought this unit back to the standard of excellence expected of a regiment of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade.†He said pausing, the work the officers and men of the unit had done was outstanding.
“Today as Colonel William Kyle takes command of the Regiment for the first time†he said looking over at the young Colonel beside him, the former commander of the First Royal Pathfinders Battle Armour Battalion. He was inexperienced at large scale battles but was an innovative fighter and saw things that more experienced large scale battle commanders would miss as far as Amis was concerned he was the best person to command the unit. “I am proud to present you with your new orders. The Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment will travel to the Federated Suns/Capellan Confederation border to the world of Kittery, there you will train with the First Kittery Borderers RCT of the AFFS and you will watch the growing Capellan Confederation/St Ives Compact fighting. You will be the representatives of the Star League Defence Force and I am sure you will do the Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment and the Star League Proud with your performance.
Clan Sea Fox, Stone Rhino and Cloud Cobra
Babylon, Clan Space
Pentagon Worlds, Clan Homeworlds
16th May 3075
In a surprise attack Clan Coyote unveils their modified Ancestral Home; the Texas-class Battleship renovated and now fully functionalhas been modified with a medium mass-driver, in the Babylon system when the ship jumps in with several JumpShips. The Ancestral Home demonstrates its new firepower on a Sea Fox Bastion-class trade station that challenges the Texas-class vessel firing Capital missiles across its path. Against a stationary target the Ancetral Home’s new weapon rips the station to pieces in a single shot sending pieces of wreckage everywhere.
Alongside this WarShip appears DropShips carrying four Clusters of Coyotes that are attentively identified as Beta Galaxy, a unit previously thought disbanded. These troops land on Babylon in the middle of a clear night and immediately go on the offensive, against all other three Clans on the planet without further calls for a batchall or Trials of Possession. The Coyote message is clear and present; they want the planet and are a danger to any who stand against them.
Clan Sea Fox’s troops take the brunt of the initial attacks, long neglected, the Babylon garrison is small and the entire unit is destroyed within hours; the Coyote troops breaking Zellbrigen over and over in combat more often than not concentrating fire on the Sea Fox Mechs and Battle Armour eliminating them quickly. The destruction of the Sea Foxes was followed swiftly by the destruction of the forces from Clan Cloud Cobra and an expeditionary force from Clan Stone Rhino as the Coyotes continued to follow dishonourable tactics. With the Ancestral Home in orbit threatening with its mass driver the other Clans are wary to form in large units giving the Coyotes a numerical advantage in every fight.
Of all the Clans attacked the Cloud Cobras were hardest hit by the Coyote attacks, loosing five full strength clusters in total including all three that made up the Clan’s Epsilon Galaxy. The Cloud Cobra warriors did die fighting destroying well over a cluster of the forces attacking them, the Sea Fox and Stone Rhinos only lost a cluster a piece.
Following the battle the troops remain on planet consolidating their hold on the world, other Clans are told no warrior from any of their other clans survived though civilians are being allowed to leave if they wish. The other Clans talk down Clan Coyote’s use of dezgra tactics however the Coyotes are defiant noting that it was the Sea Fox Clan’s trade station that began the fighting by firing missiles at the Coyote WarShip before a trial had been accepted. The Coyote “warning†was just more accurate. The Coyotes are also criticized by their use of a Mass Driver on the Ancestral Home however to Coyotes point out that mass drivers are not outlawed by any article of Clan combat, and show plans dating back to the first Star League with another Texas-class WarShip that carried the same weapon. With this evidence the Coyotes claim they are simply upgrading the Ancestral Home as the Star League had always planned for it to be. Despite all the arguments none can argue that the WarShip’s new capabilities are very capable.
Clan Sea Fox Deathstrike Khanate, which lost the Twenty-Seventh Cruiser Cluster on Babylon, have become slightly obsessed by the battle and a new OmniMech which they describe as the Pariah, they are very tight-lipped about the design and its capabilities.
Nadir Point
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
27th May 3075
It was a quiet day in the New Haiti system; most of the Swift Strike’s systems were on standby. Suddenly there was a flash of light in the space off to the Corvette’s port side, where once there was nothing now a Congress-class Frigate sat. Star Commander Leanne, the duty officer, hit the action-stations siren; the Nova Cats had one Congress and just by looking at the vessel a trained eye like hers could tell it was not the Nova Cat’s True Vision. Sensors soon confirmed it was the Bucephalus; a Congress in the service of Clan Hell’s Horses, what they would want in this system was unknown. One thing, if it was conquest they would soon see the Nova Cats were ready for them the New Haiti system had three WarShips and five clusters of troops in it, the Congress could carry two DropShips meaning a maximum of two clusters and the WarShip was alone.
“What is the meaning of this?†Star Commodore Brian Leroux asked entering the command centre speaking before he saw the image “never mind. Identify†he ordered getting to business.
“Identity is the Bucephalus, a Hell’s Horses IFF†Leanne said briefing her commander “intent unknown.†She said “I have sent flash packages to the local dump, New Haiti, the Principle and Excalibur should all receive updates in the next thirty seconds.†She said as soon as she had hit the action-stations call it had triggered the Swift Strike’s communications relays the other two WarShips and the planetary forces would soon be receiving everything the Swift Strike was seeing. As a by-product of this the Hell’s Horses troops would also be receiving a challenge call from the Swift Strike, Excalibur and Principle, though both not within visual range they were in positions that would allow them to jump in at a moments notice. “They are contacting us†she said looking back at the vessel’s commander.
“Put them up†he said moving to his chair, the Swift Strike was quickly moving to full combat readiness. Moments later the Hell’s Horses commander appeared on the screen “What can I do for you Horseman?†Leroux asked looking straight at the scared Hell’s Horses commander, if it weren’t for the jagged scar that crossed her face from left eyebrow to right cheek Brian thought that she may have been beautiful once.
“A trial†the Hell’s Horses commander said plainly she could almost have been a Nova Cat in her manner. “I am Star Colonel Elisa Bekker, commander of the Ninety-Ninth Mechanised Cavalry Cluster, of the Apocalypse Galaxy Clan Hell’s Horses. We have come from the Occupation Zone, where true Clansmen fight and die, to this quaint little world you Nova Cats live on, within your safe realm.†She taunted “we wish a Trial on the Plains that you trial your new vehicles, we wish Trials for the ownership of these vehicles designs.â€
“And if we refuseâ€
“Then you have fallen from the Clan ways and we will fall on you with all our forces here and in the Homeworlds, No Nova Cat Warrior, Civilian or animal will live.†She said smiling “all we want it to prove that we are the superior warriors and have possession of these new vehicles.â€
“You will need to bring something of worth to the table.†Brian said knowing that the Nova Cats could not refuse the trial but felt that the Hell’s Horses would be willing to put up something in collateral. Neither the Nova Cats nor the Hell’s Horses had really held a grudge against the other, they could be reasonable.
“We bring a second Cluster of warriors with us, garrison troops but still decent stock. We also bring several of the Hell’s Horses new designs and weapons. If the Nova Cats are good, or lucky, enough they may be capable of securing some of these designs.
“Bargained well and done†Brian said he was happy with the trade plan, and was sure the commanders on the ground would be thinking the same. About a week later the Hell’s Horses Ninety-Ninth Mechanised Cavalry Cluster arrived on the planet to begin a week long of trials.
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Trial Grounds
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
3rd-10th June 3075
On the grounds of New Haiti the warriors of the Ninety-Ninth Mechanised Cavalry Cluster were fighting a series of trials against the Nova Cat’s Tau Galaxy. The four Trinaries of the Hell’s Horses Cluster was fighting trials against the Trinaries of the Ninth Nova Cat Regulars.
The defending Tau Galaxy’s Second New Barcella Guards Cluster, based at the planet’s primary factories, was the first unit to engage the Hell’s Horses forces on the nearby proving grounds. The prize for the Hell’s Horses was the Nova Cat’s Armadillo Recon Tank and the BE-701 Joust Battle Tank, the Nova Cats ransom was two Trinaries of Hell’s Horses troops. In a brutal battle the Nova Cat forces emerge victorious capturing two Trinaries of Hell’s Horses troops with brand-new OmniMechs, Battle Armour and vehicles.
In the second battle on the southern continent was to decide over the SM-series of Hovertanks developed on New Haiti. Defending for the Nova Cats was the Ninth Nova Cat Regulars Cluster facing off against a Trinary of Hell’s Horses, as a ransom for the Nova Cats was the Hell’s Horses new designed Totem-Mech the Quad-OmniMech known as Balius. Though the Nova Cats fight with desperation to secure the design they are defeated and the SM-series blueprints were passed onto the Hell’s Horses forces.
The third Trial took place between the Nova Cat’s First Armoured Cavalry Cluster and the a Hell’s Horses Trinary in front of the primary command base of the Nova Cats on New Haiti. On the table for the Nova Cats were the Predator Attack VTOL and the Extended-Range Pulse Laser technology developed by Nova Cat scientists, for the Hell’s Horses was the newly developed Chemical Laser technology and an unnamed prototype they had just developed. Though both Clans fight well in the fight neither can find a decisive victory. Without a clear winner neither side can claim victory in the Trial and so neither gains their prize though combat. Instead Cluster commanders Star Colonel Colm, for the Nova Cats, and Star Colonel Elisa Bekker, for the Hell’s Horses, agree to trade like for like in design and equipment ending the Trials on a peaceful note. Before the Hell’s Horses leave Elisa Bekker names the new vehicle Bellona, a new hover tank that would be a perfect flanker, the Nova Cats begin construction of the vehicle within a couple of weeks.
Former Clan Sea Fox Enclave
Sarna, Sarna Commonality
Capellan Confederation
12th June 3075
With their forces betrayed and destroyed on Sarna by the Capellan Confederation, their civilians butchered during the attack Clan Sea Fox returns to the world with a vengeance. Supported by the Faulk Khanate’s Terror of the Deep, Nightlord-class Battleship, the Clan’s only remaining true WarShip, the Steel Soul Khanate’s Opal Skate and Fifteenth Air Assault Cluster both landed on the world making immediate tracks for the capital city tearing into Warrior House Imarra they virtually destroy the Elite Capellan unit in their rage as they enter the city. Within the hour they began ordering all civilians to leave the city while they surround the Tengo Aerospace factory on the outskirts.
Capellan Confederation WarShip Xizang moves over the city intent on supporting the remains of Warrior House Imarra as it launches a counter attack however the Terror of the Deep soon proves to be far more than a match for the lonely destroyer. In a sweeping move the Terror’s gunners fire a single broadside pass the Nightlord-class Battleship burns the Xizang from stem to stern venting atmosphere on almost all of the decks, with virtualy none of the crew alive and Sarna’s gravity calling the Feng Huang-class Cruiser began to tumble as it was drawn deeper into the gravity well. The Xizang’s final moments were shattered as it smashed into Sarna’s atmosphere breaking the back of the WarShip shattering fragments of the vessel across the atmosphere.
On the ground the Sea Foxes continued to order civilians to leave the capital city. Those refusing to leave or attempting to cause trouble were shot where they stood by Elementals. Within three hours the capital city is empty of civilians and the Opal Skate is easily holding back the Warrior House troops at their every attempt. With the Skate handling defences the warriors of the Fifteenth Air Assault Cluster are given free rain of the city and the Teng Aerospace facility given orders to exact some revenge on the Capellans they destroy the factory to the smallest brick while setting fire to several of the completed DropShips ready for collection by the Confederation and detonating stores of fuel and ammunition kept for flight testing. The Clan troops still angered then move into the City limits, with no Civilians in there way they destroy the main government buildings setting fire to them and blowing out supporting walls with particle cannons. The fires from these collapsing buildings quickly started major fires within the capital however this was just the start.
Five hours of destruction later the Opal Skate and Fifteenth Air Assault Cluster pulled back from the city leaving areas fires to spread. As Sea Foxes retreated from the burning city further timed explosive blasts ripped through sections of the city’s downtown areas, gutting several massive shopping and recreational areas. The destruction and collapse of these areas caused even more destruction, fires and billions of C-Bills worth of damage. The two Sea Fox units fought their way through the remains ofWarrior House Imarra and two regiments of local militia troops that had finally joined the fighting.
In the middle of the fight between the Capellan Warrior House Imarra and the Steel Soul Khanate’s forces two more forces appeared from the fire. The first was twelve identical SPT-NX Spartan BattleMechs, seen on dozens of other worlds these Mechs, these tan and red painted Mechs began assaulting both sides.
At the same time a Marauder II painted green decorated with cash symbols supported by four other Mechs of various design and decoration moved onto the battlefield. The Marauder II was known all over the Inner Sphere and even amongst the Clans as being that of the Bounty Hunter, they all targeted a single of the Spartans isolating it from the group but not destroying the Assault Mech. At the right moment a single Raptor II Medium BattleMech appeared from nowhere having being hidden completely invisible even to the naked eye by some form of new sensors and armour. The Raptor II engaged the Spartan with several pulse laser blasts followed by a projectile weapon striking the rear of the Spartan. The Mech went ridged like it had touched and exposed wire and been electrocuted, the eighty ton giant then fell to the ground in an uncontrollable heap. From behind the Bounty Hunter’s Mech came a recovery vehicle and several exoskeleton equipped infantry troops who loaded the stricken Mech onto the vehicle as the Bounty Hunter’s team created a perimeter around them. The remaining Spartans tried to turn the Bounty Hunter’s flank to drive them back but the Bounty Hunter was not about to loose their prize and the Spartan was captured from the field.
During the confusion caused by the arrival of these two groups with their own conflict of troubles the Sea Fox unit slipped through the Capellan forces to their DropShips and boosted from the planet. Before leaving the Terror of the Deep left one last mark on Sarna firing several naval autocannon blasts into Tengo Aerospace’s bunkers and launch tubes absolutely coring out the remains of the facility causing much of their underground storage and launch controls to collapse. It would take years to rebuild, even if there was a point to do so, while the city would take weeks to just put out the fires and in the meantime the Capellan Confederation would have to house nearly three million people made homeless by the Sea Fox’s forced eviction.
Apollo, Periphery
Clan Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
14th June 3075
It was a nasty day on Apollo, for the population it almost like old times, former capital of the Rim Worlds Republic and deep in the Clan Jade Falcon Occupation Zone. The Clan Hell’s Horses Fifty-fifth BattleMech Cluster, of the Hell’s Stormtroopers Galaxy, landed on Apollo and the units commander Star Colonel Rosella Brown bid down with Star Colonel Kate of the Jade Falcon’s Tenth Provisional Garrison Cluster, of Kappa Galaxy.
Following an hour of bidding between commanders and between the two Clans until eventually only one Trinary from each cluster stood ready for action. Within the Hell’s Horses force there were three of the new Cygnus Assault BattleMechs, these ninety-five ton designs were all prototypes of three different Cygnus variants. After fifteen minutes of combat half the Jade Falcon forces had been routed in combat and all three of the Cygnus variants had proven their worth in combat, blooded against other Clan warriors, after five further minutes the trial was over and the Hell’s Horses were victorious. The remainds of the Tenth Provisional Cluster were given twenty-four hours to collect their equipment and leave the system.
SLDF Protectorate
Solaris VII, Isle of Skye
Lyran Alliance
19th June 3075
Following a year on Solaris VII acting as peacemakers the Northwind Renegades Mercenary Regiment begins preparations into their withdrawal from the world. In their place the Third Brigade of the First Division in the Star League Defence Force, known as Bolton’s Rangers, begins to arrive on planet. Following five years defending the Lyran Alliance from Clan Jade Falcon’s raids the battle hardened warriors are now looking forward to some garrison work on a more peaceful front.
On Solaris VII the Bolton’s Rangers commander Lieutenant-General Jerry Wagner begins reorganisation of some of his Regiment’s conventional assets. The units Second League Mechanized Infantry Regiment is transformed into two Battalions of Battle Armour troops using all the captured suits from Clan Jade Falcon and from the Star League stores. The first battalion, the Twenty-second Royal Battle Armour Battalion, known internally as the Raging Toads is entirely made up of Clan Battle Armour suits and is commanded by a former Jade Falcon warrior turned Star League officer Major Dayton Icaza. While the second battalion, the Second Royal Battle Armoured Military Police Battalion, is provided for with Inner Sphere manufactured Battle Armour and Power Armour suits together they are combined with the Regiment’s already active Battle Armour Battalion, the Second Royal Battle Armour Battalion, and are combined to make the Star League’s Second Royal Battle Armour Regiment.
Once the whole unit is on planet they are to work with the on planet security force, the First Royal Battle Armoured Police Battalion, though this formation is separate from regular forces of the Bolton’s Rangers but they work together fully.
Clan WarShip Cache
Sheridan System
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Space
24th June 3075
Using their full control of the system to their advantage and on orders from Khan Stanislov N’Buta Star Adder technicians begin reactivating six WarShips from one of the Star League Brian Caches in the system. This move is intended to give the Star Adders a better edge against future attacks by the Steel Vipers and Coyotes and it includes the Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser SLS Perth, the Lola II-class Destroyer SLS Harvest and the SLS Gladiator, an Essex-class Destroyer. Also included in these reactivations are the SLS Duty, SLS Honour and SLS Grace three Bug-Eye-class Surveillance-craft the first activations of these craft since the creation of the Clans. The Star Adders choose to keep the designations of the craft and their Star League paint schemes however they remove the ‘SLS’ designators from their names.
To keep their allies current with events and close to the fighting edge they turn the cache open to the Stone Rhino Clan which chooses to activate a mothballed Quixote-class Missile Frigate, which they name Exeter, and a single ancient Samarkand Block II-class Carrier, which they name Unleashed.
Second Star League Games
Steiner Stadium, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate, Lyran Alliance
30th June 3075
Due to the continued re-construction work at the Star League Stadium on Solaris VII the Second Star League Games is moved to the Steiner Stadium, the Coliseum. In a brief brutal battle one warrior Jan Swallow proves he is superior to all and that his BattleMech a Raptor II is far in advance to all the others, its Void Signature Stealth systems making it too difficult to track. Of most interest of observers is the origin of this Mech and its revolutionary stealth systems, unfortunately Jan Swallow refuses to comment on where he gained the Mech from.
Capellan Confederation based news services are able to pinpoint the warrior and his Mech to the same warrior and Mech that assisted the Bounty Hunter on Sarna a couple of months before in capturing a Spartan BattleMech. Two days after the competition is complete Jan Swallow is found in a hotel room with a Spartan’s Sword impaled through his chest. A joint police and Star League Investigation into the killing picks up nothing that can lead to the recovery of the killer.
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Round Table DMI Compound
Brunswick Continent, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
3rd July 3075
There were only a few areas on New Avalon that were restricted to military personnel only, the Davion Royal Palace, Mount Davion, the Clan Nova Cat Compound/Embassy and a couple of secret research bases run by the NAIS, the DMI and AFFS. To these sites there was access only under the escort of members of the AFFS or with the explicit permission of the Davion family.
Today approaching a DMI Compound a Mule-class DropShip was escorted to the ground by four AFFS Dagger OmniFighters from the First Davion Guards Air Wing. This ship was almost completely devoid of insignia and even lacked any major paint work sticking with metal gray, like most commercial vessels, the ship had some non-standard areas on its hull however only a well trained eye would ever know.
As the vessel landed a lower set of doors opened two BattleMech recovery vehicles exited the craft’s lower doors, the first with a single armoured trooper hanging onto the back of the craft. The two vehicles carried the remains of a single BattleMech and its pilot in a sealed container. As they came to a stop in front of a group of Davion Department of Military Intelligence officials the two Recovery vehicles were abandoned by their crews and the armoured trooper dropped to the ground in front of the officials.
“As promised†the trooper said his body fully encased in the green coloured power armour. In hip holsters like an ancient gunslinger of Terra were to heavy pistols while on his back was a Mauser 900 Pulse Rifle/Grenade Launcher, vintage weapon of the SLDF’s Elite Infantry.
“Impressive work Bounty Hunter†one official said “we were sorry to hear about your companion’s fate.â€
“Hardly my companion more a business partnership†the Bounty Hunter replied “He paid the price we all will eventually, my payment†the suited warrior said reaching out a personal directory assistant (PDA), the voice was synthesized so no-one knew if the Bounty Hunter was male of female, it maintained the mystique and the legend, as had been the plan all along.
“It’s all about the money eh?†One official asked, no answer came, “then I guess money talks…†he said pushing his thumbprint onto the PDA’s register.
“And I walk†the Bounty Hunter said immediately turning and leaving the DMI Officials.
“Must be nice just to be able to do that†one official muttered “walk into a secure compound get the cash and walk out, damn.†he said as the Bounty Hunter re-entered his DropShip. “well let’s see what secrets this little beauty has hidden away, get the vehicles moved inside have a medical team come down and collect the body, we might get lucky. And find out where these bastards are coming from.â€
FSS Intrepid, Nadir point
Terra System
Star League Protectorate
14th July 3075
There was a flash of light as the FSS Intrepid, a Fox-class Corvette, arrived in the Sol System. The Federated Suns WarShip immediately began to reel in its Jump Sail while the SLS Maker, a Carrack-class Light Corvette, moved into escort the vessel. Together the two WarShips began moving through the system towards derelict vessel holding zone in the system.
Attached to the FSS Intrepid were two Elephant and three Octopus-class Tug DropShips full of engineering and refit teams their job would be to repair and refit the remains of the CSWS Fire Fang, a Whirlwind-class Destroyer, which had been abandoned in the system since the ComStar/Word of Blake conflict for the system. The SLS Maker and its crew would monitor the FSS Intrepid, and ensure they stay at a distance from Terra, and check on the other derelicts in the system.
Forbidden City
Sian, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
26th July 3075
Chancellor Naomi Centrella was angry, in fact she was in a state of absolute rage, she’d just found out that her husband had created a shipyard in her mother’s realm, the Magistracy of Canopus, hidden deep in the Trznadel Star Cluster. “I want the Hell’s Black Aces removed from the shipyards immediately.†She said to one of her advisors.
“But they are some of our best pilots.â€
“Exactly this shipyard that was created deep inside my realm, without my consent, is perfectly safe from attack no enemy has gotten that far into the Magistracy since the Reunification War. The Hell’s Black Aces Wing will be far more suited serving our realm with the other Wings of the Regiment.â€
“What unit should we use to replace them?â€
“The First Centrella Black Guards Wing†she ordered, her personnel defence wing. “The Second Centrella Black Guards will replace them in six months.â€
“We don’t have a Second Centrella Black Aces Air Wing†her advisor said
“We will have a Second Wing in six months.†Naomi promised “the Hell’s Black Aces can train them.
“What about the staff that are currently staffing the facility?â€
“They will remain as long as they are loyal to our new rules.†Naomi ordered she didn’t want to cripple the facility but she also wanted it to be entirely loyal to the Capellan people and most importantly to her.
Star League Defence Force Training Facility
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
8th August 3075
Alongside the Royal Grounds of the Martial Olympiad on Defiance the Spaceport and Star League Administration Buildings, including that of the Advisory Council, were joined by yet another state of the art facility. The newest Star League Defence Force Training Facility, under joint administration of the SLDF and Armed Forces of the Federated Suns this facility had garrison quarters for upwards of two battalions of troops, classrooms and hangers for the tuition and maintenance of the unit and its equipment. The overall plan for the facility was that both the AFFS and the SLDF would form Training Battalions that would be based permenantly on the world. These two units would work together helping both sets of troops to gain experience and the same level of training.
The AFFS immediately begin to move their training Battalion from its temporary base on the planet to this new facility while the SLDF take slightly longer to form their training battalion. Unlike the AFFS the SLDF does not plan to retain their training Battalion on the active rolls for defence of the SLDF however if Defiance was attacked it would be called into action under the Emergency Powers Act of the Star League.
Round Table DMI Compound
Brunswick Continent, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
13th August 3075
In the folk lore of humanity Friday the 13th was an unlucky day. Throughout history acts had conspired for this date to be a bad omen and for superstitious people it was a day to do nothing to close the doors and wait for tomorrow. Others that were not so superstitious it was a normal day. In the Federated Suns DMI division there was no room for such superstitions they had to get on with things, there was nothing else for it.
On every other day of the year Major Eileen Hamilton had no problem, except this date, she was a ten year veteran of the Regular Army AFFS before she had moved to the DMI to serve with their Rabid Fox Battle Armour forces. She’d completed another twelve years of service with the Rabid Fox conducting dozens of top secret missions that would never see the light of day before being assigned to the defence of the DMI’s newest compound, the Round Table around about twenty kilometres south of the City of Winchester.
Something had been nagging at her all day and as the sun began to drop below the horizon she realized her fears were coming true, on the horizon sensors detected was almost a full company of BattleMechs approaching, all the AFFS and Mercenary Units on planet had been warned to stay away, these guys were not friendly. First raising the alarm then suiting up in her Infiltrator Mk III Battle Armour suit Eileen took her place on the walls along with the rest of her battalion, just over two hundred-and-fifty troopers in total all suited up in the best Battle Armour the AFFS could provide. Supporting them were turrets with massive amounts of Long Range Missiles.
“Controlled bursts people we have all seen the capabilities of these damned things, keep your heads.†She said hoping their air support would be here soon her battalion was made up of decent suit operators but against them were eleven SPT-NX Spartans, the same design that the team were studying inside the compound. The same BattleMechs that had fought the Clans and the best the Inner Sphere had to offer on dozens of occasions and only lost one of their numbers.
Although the Rabid Fox troopers fought hard severely damaging nearly all the Spartans after an hour later they were all but wiped out, the enemy Spartans taking no prisoners adding unsult to injury crushing downed troopers under the assault Mech’s massive feet. Once the defenders were dead and their support turrets destroyed the functional Spartans all opened fire on the facility and its warehouses specifically targeting the downed Spartan with several volleys of weapons fire, the Mech is pilot and all evidence were erased. They then lined up the scientists and technicians working on the Mech and pilot cutting them down with BattleMech-grade weapons fire leaving the remains of the bodies displayed for all to see. Within ten minutes the Spartans had abandoned the burning facility leaving nothing for the AFFS troops to salvage, deep within the facility’s remains the DMI Scientists found a single data core referring to the Spartan BattleMech and its pilot. The Spartan was a factory built model, not a modified chassis, however it was built with materials and compounds not used at any known factory of the Inner Sphere or Periphery. Data on the pilot was similarly unhelpful the pilot’s DNA had been completely scrambled by an unknown chemical toxin released from a capsule in the pilots left arm.
Apollo
Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
23rd August 3075
During a routine raid of the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone the Jade Falcon Clan attacks the world of Apollo, during the raid the Jade Falcon’s Eight Talon Cluster of Gamma Galaxy the Jade Falcons encounter the SM1 Tank Destroyer for the first time, a Nova Cat design captured by the Hell’s Horses. Although the Jade Falcons disdain standard vehicles they see the capabilities of the SM1 and go out of their way to capture one loosing two OmniMechs in the process.
The Eight Talon Cluster also uses this raid to test the newest of Clan Jade Falcon’s new OmniMechs taking the Partial Wing system first seen on the Wasp IIC the Kestrel OmniMech is a light design which uses the BattleMech Partial Wing to increase the length of its jumps and to take the Hell’s Horses defenders by surprise. Though the Kestrel is an OmniMech the Partial Wing is fixed to the Mech limiting space and weight for weapons.
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CCAF HQ
Sian, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
4th September 3075
Sitting in an office on Sian Gao-shiao-zhang Hadji Doru head of Warrior House Doru and primary military advisor of Chancellor Naomi Centrella looked at the commanders of the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry, the Capellan Reserve Cavalry and the St Cry’s Armoured Hussars units.
“Due to recent losses for units amongst military units in the Capellan Confederation’s Armed Forces we have decided to begin merging certain military commands.†He said looking at the commanders “as a result the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry, Capellan Reserve Cavalry and the St Cry’s Armoured Hussars will all be merging into one command.†He said the unit commanders looked at each other for several moments, the only one that looked bothered about the changes was Lord Colonel Marcus Baxter, commander of the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry. “Is there a problem Colonel Baxter?†Doru asked, dropping the Lordship as if it was nothing reminding him of his simple regimental rank.
“Well, when the McCarron’s tied the Armoured Cavalry to the Capellan nation they were guaranteed certain amounts of independence.†He said tip-toeing around the topic “if I inform my troopers of these changes the moral of the troops may be damaged.â€
“Are they loyal soldiers of the Capellan Confederation?â€
“Of course they are, questioning their loyalty….†Baxter began but Doru raised his hands to stop him.
“Enough of this†he said looking at Baxter. “Colonel, if your people have a problem with this you†he emthisised Baxter’s role in the proceedings “you will inform your people that they are members of the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces. That they serve at the whim of the Chancellor of this nation and if they choose to change the Armoured Cavalry’s position in the military then the Cavalry will learn to live with it or become private citizens.†Doru said very quietly, Baxter only nodded the Armoured Cavalry would not be pleased with this change, further deepening the rift within the unit and the unit‘s rift from the Capellan Confederation.
Town Meeting Room
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
8th September 3075
Since the Last of the Lakers, a Filtvelt Coalition JumpShip had entered the Nova Cat’s Den and proposed the Nova Cats and Filtvelt Coalition enter negotiations the two nations had been exchanging diplomats and continued towards a greater alliance.
On Filtvelt Star Colonel Rebecca Leroux, commander of the 246th Battle Cluster of Sigma Galaxy, now represented the Nova Cats as Ambassador an unfamiliar post for the Nova Cat VTOL pilot however she was beginning to find her feet in the post. The Coalition folks were mostly backwards in their thinking, several still thought things should be the same as when they were part of the Federated Suns, while others were darn right hostile to the Nova Cat presence seeing them as the ‘Clan Menace’ that had invaded the Inner Sphere in 3050.
“Star Colonel, it’s good to see you today†Marquees Helen Trempealeau said smiling her invitation to the Nova Cats had weakened her position as leader, from the Watch Reports Rebecca had read the fledgling nation was still struggling on several domestic fronts and she was making progress towards another military partnership.
“Thank you†Rebecca said nodding to the Marquees and to Colonel Eric LeBeau the Coalition’s military leader. “Marquees, my entire unit is now inside the Coalition, we have four DropShips and a single Scout-class JumpShip. This will limit our movement capabilities however we will be fully committed to this nation’s defence as well as the defence of Nova Cat assets.†Rebecca said part of the agreement for her Cluster being allowed on the planet was for them to help defend the nation they were living in. “We have also been looking into other ways the Nova Cats and Filtvelt Coalition can help each other.â€
“Have you indeed?†the Marquees said her smile thinning.
“Aff, I am not sure if you are aware the worlds of the Nova Cat’s Den are quite gifted with natural resources and have an abundance of asteroids with natural resources.â€
“I was not†she glanced at the Colonel who equally shook his head.
“All we have seen out of the Tortuga worlds in the past have been a pirate threat.†Colonel LeBeau said quietly “until recently that is…â€
“Well the Nova Cat’s have been expanding their presence in the Den and have been building up our military strength.†Rebecca noticed the two of them were looking very nervous. “Not that we are directing that might anywhere at this time. We do however require more resources.†Rebecca said, if they looked nervous before they looked twice as bad now.
“Star Colonel, we do not have the resources to spend on other nations nor the human resources to mine such resources.†The Marquees said looking over at the Star Colonel.
“No need to, we Nova Cats are willing to provide our own man-power for such operations and you would of course get a percentage of what we mined.â€
“What if you provided us with something different?†the Colonel said quietly turning to his leader “our forces need trained mechanics and technicians to keep our equipment fully operational. If we had a school to train such people at then we wouldn’t have to source out to the Federated Suns or the Fronc Reaches, which I might add has a school of their own.†The Marquees turned to Rebecca Leroux.
“Would it be possible for this to happen?â€
“Possibly.†Rebecca said quietly “the Nova Cats take all the resources we mine ourselves. However if the Filtvelt Coalition was to bring the resources her on Filtvelt that our engineers required we could go one better than an Engineering School we could help you build an entire University Campus that would bring the Filtvelt Coalition beyond the Fronc Reaches and on par with the Taurian Concordat. We would also assist the worlds we are mining resources from in upgrading their local schools to either better buildings or better equipment?†Rebecca said outlining a quick plan it would have to be cleared by the Nova Cat Khans and possibly the Clan Council but it would get them the resources and personnel they needed.
“That would be very impressive and helpful†the Marquees said she was struggling for more to say the Colonel was entirely speechless.
“We would also like to support you in local defence.†Rebecca said, this was pushing their alliance but something she knew the 246th would need. “And I do not just mean just on Filtvelt†she said looking over at the two leaders. “If the Nova Cats are to place non-combat personnel on you other worlds we will also require placing military forces on these worlds.†Rebecca said “I have four Trinaries, this means I would be placing a single Trinary on each world, and we would be conducting military operations on all these worlds whether that be in defence or training. This would include self defenece against possible local troubles.†She warned
“We could push towards that, however your people cannot use live rounds if training with my people, we don’t have the ammo or the personnel to waste on your Clan Trials†the Colonel said, he’d seen the Nova Cats waste almost an entire lance of vehicles in their first week in a Trial, the vehicles had been mostly returned to duty however he could not afford to loose that amount of people off planetary defence at a time again. “And we would prefer to be involved anytime you have issue with the local populations.
“We could power down our weapons for trials and restrict training to a Star/Lance at a time?â€
“This would be acceptable, when would you want to start?†The Marquees said seeing her opinion polls flying and her fledgling nation taking a step into a far brighter future.
“Immediately†she announced, “we have two JumpShips in the Nova Cat’s Den ready to begin operations inside the Coalition at once.â€
“That’s fastâ€
“No time to waste.†Rebecca said standing up saluting, she then turned and left. Marquees Trempealeau turned to Colonel LeBeau.
“They are ready to start immediately? How is this possible?â€
“The Nova Cats have far more power available to them than we, we may have the resources but,†the Colonel said quietly. â€Perhaps we have made a deal with the wrong people.â€
“Perhaps and perhaps not, the Federated Suns deal with them, we will deal with them.†The Marquees said “we just have to watch our backs, remember we would be a mear speed bump to the Nova Cat Clan and I do not believe that House Davion could redeploy to support us in time.†She said with a small smile, to one side they had the Federated Suns and the other the Nova Cats, the Devil and the Beast which one was which was still to be answered.
 
Varnay Anchorage
Nova Cat’s Den, Varnay System
Periphery
14th September 3075
As the Nova Cat Naval vessels berthed at the recharge station in the still secret Varnay Anchorage two Merchant-Carrack-class vessels, the Guiding Vision and the Blessed Vision, begun moving clear of the other vessels. These craft were full of engineers and resources bound for the Filtvelt Coalition some would be dedicated to Nova Cat operations and others would be assigned to support new Filtvelt projects. Because the Nova Cats had no available dedicated WarShips and because the Filtvelt Coalition fielded none of the vessels themselves both Carrack-Merchants carried a single Titan-class Carrier DropShip full of aerospace fighters that were fully capable of defending their charges against anything up to a WarShip.
Clan Wolf Territory Grant’s Station
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
Clan Space
22nd September 3075
In a closed doors agreement Clan Wolf and Clan Coyote rekindle their previous alliance with a weapons transfer. The Coyotes covertly replace Clan Wolf troops on Grant’s Station in the Clan Homeworlds while the Wolves take possession of the Steel Fang, a Clan Coyote Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser. This vessel immediately disappears from the Clan Homeworlds, the wolves and Coyotes also fight several trials for technology and warriors with the Wolves gaining almost an entire Cluster of Crusader warriors with the Coyotes gaining several Inner Sphere designs and weapons including Rotary Autocannons and Heavy Gauss Rifles.
Five months later a Clan Wolf vessel named Razor Teeth arrives in the Clan Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone of the Inner Sphere. After a couple of trials against the Hell’s Horses for minor things the vessel arrives in the Clan Wolf Occupation Zone, from combat footage and from sensor reports the Hell’s Horses are ninety percent sure the Razor Teeth is the former Coyote vessel Steel Fang.
Downtown Saso City
New Syrtis, New Syrtis Combat Region
Capellan March, Federated Suns
8th October 3075
It was a normal day in Saso City, the snow was falling constantly as the world was wrapped in its near permanent and total Ice-age, the Capital city of New Syrtis home to the Hasek family and capital to the Capellan March of the Federated Suns. People were walking, cars were moving and everything was calm on the major street corners, as was tradition, were BattleMechs of the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers Regiment though there was no immediate threat this position was a tradition for the standing Syrtis Fusilier Regiment and it was expected in the March capital as it would be on Robinson or New Avalon. Scattered throughout the city there was nearly a battalion of AFFS troops either on patrol, guarding sensitive areas or on leave, ever vigilant, ever ready to assist.
Even this level of security and vigilance could not stop trouble however; there was an ancient saying “all the security in the world cannot prepare you for one dedicated terrorist willing to sacrifice his life for the success of his goals.†Despite this knowledge and despite their best efforts the people of New Saso and of New Syrtis were failed in the early afternoon of the 8th October as a nuclear explosion ripped through the city felling buildings, people and BattleMechs while the resulting EMP blast knocked two over flying commercial aircraft, an Michelson MA-80 Delta Air Cruiser and a Federated-Boeing FB-335 Long haul, out of the sky destroying them with all hands an AFFS DropShip was also forced to make an emergency landing outside the city in an open field with heavy damage.
The constant snow and cold temperatures could not stop wild-fires sparking up in the radiation soaked landscape that was once the pride of New Syrtis and of the Capellan March. The remainder of the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT mobilized from their bases across the planet, although many lacked the full Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) Protection gear required for this environment, these troops were dedicated to recovering any of their fallen comrades and relieving the population of the stricken city. By the end of a year many of these people are diagnosed with various forms of cancer, the AFFS promise them all treatment at NAIS starting with the worse cases.
On New Avalon Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek, head of the Capellan March and the Syrtis Fusiliers rounds up two regiments of AFFS personnel and enough NBC protection equipment to outfit the entire Syrtis Fusiliers Brigade, he also drafts orders for the Sixth and Eighth Syrtis Fusiliers RCTs to return to New Syrtis at their best pace. A combined DMI and MIIO Nuclear Investigation team attach themselves to Nathaniel Hasek’s forces leaving New Avalon to assist in relief efforts and begin an investigation into the explosion. Just before the Field Marshal leaves New Avalon the planetary News channel breaks news that the fate of Duchess Deborah Hasek and her daughter Kym is unknown as their exact location was unknown prior to the explosion.
Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
12th October 3075
It was a cold wet day on New Avalon, Victor Steiner-Davion thought it reflected the mood on the planet and inside the nation. Dressed fully in the uniform of a Marshal of Armies uniform of the Federated Suns, around the Federated Suns emblem there was a black edge, he stepped out into the rain and up onto the speaker’s podium “Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press thank you for coming, Citizens of the Federated Suns I greet you on this sombre day.†He began, the press were quiet, beyond them the small group of civilians granted access were equally so. “As I am sure you have all heard three days ago on New Syrtis inside the city of New Saso, March Capital of the Capellan March, there was an nuclear explosion approximately one mile from the centre of the city.†He stated, stick to the facts his advisors had said in this case they spoke louder than any word.
“I can reveal that this explosion has all but destroyed the city of New Saso, with nearly sixteen million deaths.†He said looking to the sky as if for answers before fixing back on the Tri-vid cameras “this explosion was not an accident.†He said holding back his anger, barely “this was an attack against the people of New Saso and the Federated Suns. It was a cowards attack and we will bring those responsible to justice.†He said there could be no questioning in his voice only conviction, that those responsible would be brought to heel by the Federated Suns. “In the meantime we must take care of our own, at this moment humanitarian efforts have begun on New Syrtis and more resources have been routed to the world however I now call on all the honourable nations of the Star League to join us and assist the world of New Syrtis in making its recovery.†Though the world could recover in time and the Federated Suns could manage alone this is was after all what the Star League had been created for.
“Meanwhile I have more pleasant news to reveal. Duchess Deborah Hasek and her daughter Kym Hasek have escaped the fate shared by millions and are safely secure on Kathil. I have been in discussions with the Duchess and with Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek, en route to the world, and we have decided that for the time being daily operations of the Capellan March will move to District City on Kathil while AFFS command for the March will remain on New Syrtis, all military command and control facilities are secure.†He said it was a relatively open secret that the Capellan March Command Facility, known in the AFFS as The Cave, was buried under New Saso City. The Cave had sustained a couple of broken lights and some light injuries however they were several kilometres under the ground and no radiation had penetrated to the facility. “We have also placed the entire Capellan March on a High Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Attack Alert. Until the situation has fully been resolved and investigated, at present other areas of the Federated Suns will remain at peace time levels.†He announced this marked the first time a March of the Federated Suns had been on NBC Alert for almost three centuries since the end of the Second Succession War, a sign of the changing times.
“The Federated Suns will recover from this attack, we will find out who permutated this attack and we will bring them to justice. Anyone who thinks this will make the Federated Suns a demoralised and easy to attack nation is vastly wrong. Any incursion into our borders will be met by the full force of the AFFS.†He said finishing off his short speech “I thank you for your time†he said lastly stepping down from the podium moving back inside the Royal Palace.
Bountiful Harvest
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
22nd October 3075
As was always the way of Clan Sea Fox they chose to make their assaults for the benefit of their entire clan. Following nearly three weeks of intense negotiations on Sudeten with the Jade Falcon leadership and merchants the Sea Fox Clan had got nowhere. In an effort to quicken the Sea Fox grip on the technology Khan Hanna Coston authorized the Thirty-ninth Strike Cluster to take the technology from Clan Jade Falcon.
Striking at preparing Jade Falcon invasion forces on Bountiful Harvest, on the Lyran Alliance border. The relatively new Third Falcon Hussars Cluster of Gamma Galaxy contested the Sea Fox presence utilising several Kestrel OmniMechs and several Wasp IIC BattleMechs all of which used the Partial Wing system, the Thirty-ninth Strike Cluster lost the battle and limped off the world back to Twycross. The units commander Star Colonel Toman Clark died from his wounds on the way back to Twycross with the oldest Bloodnamed warrior of the unit, Star Captain Garry Clark, claimed command of the unit during a brief Trial of Possession.
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Great writing What are the stats of the wasp llc
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Great writing What are the stats of the wasp llc
Ask and it will be done
http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/wasp-iic/ (http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/wasp-iic/)
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Downtown, Hotel Room
New Canton, Star League Protectorate World
Capellan Confederation
8th November 3075
With some of them on leave and others on fact-finding missions for their commands eight members of the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry Regiments, of the Capellan Confederation, met in a hotel room in the capital’s downtown section. This was a secret meeting if the Capellan Confederation knew they were meeting likely all of them would be in trouble, if not killed by the Maskirovka.
Sitting on a chair against the far wall sat Sang-shai Angel Bodez commander of the Second McCarron’s, he was the highest ranking officer in the room and most successful of those gathered. Beside him was Zhong-shao Desmond Hernandez commander of the Second’s conventional forces ‘Angel’s Gypsies.’ Opposite them was Sao-shao Drake Calhoun, Battalion commander of the Fourth McCarron’s Special Forces unit and one time enforcer of the Chancellor’s rule on some of the less happy McCarron warriors. The Fifth had been the trouble maker regiment only recently shedding its questionable loyalty rating by the Capellan High Command.
Standing at the small bar in the room was the last three members gathered first was Sao-shao Steven Risner, commander of the Nightriders Regiment’s Special Forces, he was the only member of the First McCarron’s and most sceptical of what would come out of this meeting. Nether the less he was also constantly scanning the room for eavesdroppers‘making sure the McCarron meeting remained a secret. Beside him stood the two youngest and most junior members of this meeting representing the McCarron’s future and the youth of the units. First was Sang-wei Louisa Krane of the Fifth Regiment, a former officer of the Third Regiment now commanding a group of mismatched warriors and training commands. The second was the one true part of the legacy that still remained purely McCarron, Sang-wei Elizabeth McCarron, cousin to Faith McCarron (now Steiner) she was the last active McCarron on the Regiment’s lists and she was the youngest in the room aged at just twenty years old. She had commanded a couple of operations against pirates and insurgents but she was woefully inexperienced.
“We all know why we’re here, the Big Mac is no more, our brigade is disappearing quicker than the days left in the year, and our family is losing any strength it was promised in the Capellan nation. What are we going to do about it?†Drake Calhoun asked
“I don’t want to be the bad guy here, but nothing†Steven Risner suggested he noticed the appalled looks “the Nightriders have gone from strength to strength, the Chancellors and her predecessor have given us technology and equipment no-one else ever would. Many of our people have made lives in the Confederation should we disrupt theirs just because ours hasn’t gone to plan or the Brigade has fallen from its height?â€
“Yes†Angel Bodez said quietly “but we have always prided ourselves with being part of a larger whole. The Brigade is failing, we are all failing.†Bodez said his unit was almost as successful as the Nightriders to hear him say they were in trouble meant exactly that “we need to pull together, make the Chancellor see that we are an asset and that we need to be together to remain like that.â€
“And if we are not?†Drake Calhoun asked after a moment or two “if the Chancellor decides that our time has past?â€
“Then we take matters into our own hands†Louisa Krane propped up from her end of the bar.
“Against the Chancellor?†Bodez asked very sceptical against the might of a succession state, even the smallest the depleted Big Mac would have no chance.
“No, we take our destiny into our own hands; the McCarron family has numbered accounts in all the Succession States.†Elizabeth said quietly revealing a family secret hidden since the Succession Wars, Elizabeth knew the records were monitored and kept upto date by the senior members of the McCarron family. In this case the one located in the Federated Suns “Faith has access to them; she agreed to look after them when she left†Elizabeth reveilled one more secret remained. “And I have a way of communication to her if I’m in trouble, completely untraceable and unique only a McCarron would know what it was. We contact Faith and she opens funding for us.â€
“Then what?†Desmond Hernandez asked there were not many obvious moves after that.
“We escape the Confederation to pastures new†Elizabeth said trying to show them there were options beyond the Capellan Confederation. “Perhaps the Federated Suns or the Lyran Alliance will assit us there are plenty who hate the Capellans enough to be willing to protect us.â€
“Protection from the Federated Suns?†Calhoun asked
“Why not? Anyway to hurt the Capellans will do for them even if it is just a finger to the Capellan leadership.†Elizabeth said with not a small measure of venom.
“And if the others of our regiments don’t want to join us?†Risner asked, he for one would not be cutting down fellow McCarron warriors.
“We quietly have them transferred from one regiment to another and have friendly warrior transferred in either permanently or on training missions then when all is set we get out of trouble.†Bodez said, the others nodded slowly their agreement. Despite their missgivings they would all vote together, decisions made all eyes turned to Elizabeth. She was a McCarron and the one who could put things in motion she nodded and that was it, the McCarron Regiments would break from the Capellan Confederation. Now she had to hope that Faith could drum up enough support to help the McCarrons in the future or their break from the Confederation could break the unit, permenantly.
Secret Clan Wolf Shipyard
Outpost System, Occupation Zone
14th November 3075
In an effort to expand their territory and ensure their clan’s position in the Inner Sphere Clan Hell’s Horses launch an attack on the Clan Wolf system of Outpost. The Clan’s Watch had informed them that the Wolves had a minimum of two ground clusters in system and an entire cluster of aerospace fighters as well as an unusually high amount of DropShip traffic in the system. All of this should have pushed the Hell’s Horses away from the system, but eager to hurt the wolves it made the perfect target.
Because of the rumoured defences Clan Hell’s Horses deployed the Black Knight and the Space Hunter, two Lola III-class Destroyers, to support the ground forces. Entering the system the Hell’s Horses encountered no resistance at the jump points, passing the first world in the system however this all changed as the Dire Wolf challenged them. The Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser was one of the most famous WarShips in all the Clans it had been the flagship for the ilKhan during the initial Clan invasion until it had been rammed by a Free Rasalhague Republic fighter. In the past the Dire Wolf had featured a sixth DropShip making it different to other Sovetskii Soyuz-class vessels however the Wolf Clan had taken their modifications of the Dire Wolf one step further. The hull had been modified adding additional capital weapons, sub-capital missile weapons systems and heavier armour than the standard design.
The Dire Wolf moved in on the two Lola IIIs and immediately ripped into them with its weapons. Supporting the ship were six DropShips and two Clusters worth of aerospace fighters, within less than a ten minutes the Hell’s Horses ground troops knew their WarShips were overmatched and began to withdraw to their JumpShips. The Black Knight, having taken heavier fire than the Space Hunter from the Dire Wolf, charged forwards intent on buying further time for the ground forces to survive despite being hopelessly overmatched it’s sacrifice allowed the other ships to escape unharmed.
The Wolves had sent a clear and present message to any foe intending on attacking them and you will pay the price and it was complete hands off of the Outpost system and any Clan Wolf asset in the system. The mysterious new capabilities of the Dire Wolf was of interest of all the Clans on their inter networked Chatter Web.
Gabriel Space Habitat
Odessa system, Donegal Province
Lyran Alliance
13th December 3075
On Odessa, at the world’s High Court, with the command crew of the LAS Ian McQuiston in the attendance the Lyran Alliance holds a press conference with the Inner Sphere’s press. They announce the finding of the Gabriel Space Habitat by the LAS Ian McQuiston. They announce it is a former SLDF space habitat is built into a massive asteroid of the Odessa system and that it is perfect condition for occupation. They make it clear to all other nations that this station is in Lyran space and despite its Star League origin it has been claimed and will remain a Lyran habitat.
The Lyrans also invite the SLDF to come to the station and investigate the station for SLDF artefacts, to keep up public appearances the SLIC send an inexperienced team to the station, they have already removed things that they find interesting as well as the majority of the shipyards. An SLIC operation had even set the Lyrans on course to find the Gabriel Habitat.
Persistence
Clan Jade Falcon Territory
Inner Sphere Occupation Zone
16th December 3075
On a small unremarkable world of the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone the Ghost Bear forces of the Rasalhague Dominion landed on, and fought, for the BattleMech Partial Wing technology pioneered by the Jade Falcons. Also part of the Trial the Ghost Bears agree not to trade the technology to Clan Sea Fox as further punishment by the Jade Falcons against the merchant clan. The Rasalhague Dominion government is not bound by the agreement of warriors however they are well aware if they alienate their Clan Ghost Bear dominated military then their combined Inner Sphere/Clan nation could fall to pieces faster than the Free Rasalhague Republic fell apart during the initial Clan Invasion of the Inner Sphere.
Secondary Command Bridge
Pirate Point, Fire Fang (Whirlwind-class Destroyer)
Sol System, Star League Protectorate
25th December 3075
For followers of the Christian faith it was a holiday and a day for celebration, for Major Nathan Heaps and his team of engineers it was another day at the office. His teams were based on the FSS Intrepid, a Fox-class Corvette, which was on extended duties attached to the Engineering Corps of the AFFS. Major Heaps and his team had been charged by their First Prince and by the Admiralty of the Federated Suns to return the CSS Fire Fang to operational status, at least operational enough to limp it back to Galax Shipyards and get the Destroyer‘s systems properly refitted. Unfortunately the Whirlwind-class Destroyer was heavily damaged and marooned in the Sol system just outside Terra’s gravity well, the Star League had been willing to sell the Federated Suns the craft but little else. After almost six months assigned to the Federated Suns’ farthest flung post Nathan’s crew had been able to finally bring online the Secondary Command Centre, the Primary Command Bridge had been completely gutted when a capital missile struck the front of the ship during ComStar’s efforts to erase the Word of Blake from history.
“Okay bring power to fifty-two percent on the main reactors, everything’s looking good.†Nathan said looking over his shoulder at his other engineers the Secondary Command Centre was tiny, obviously added as an afterthought and not intended for long term use. Looking at the main monitors Nathan smiled things were working nicely “contact the Intrepid and the DropShip squadron have them back off and give us some room, then release manoeuvring thrusters control to my console.†He said a visual inspection of the engines had shown they had little damage so the ship should be able to move under its own power - unfortunately the vessel’s K-F Core controls had been damaged the ship wasn’t jumping until they were replaced, then again at its present condition the ship wasn’t going anywhere fast.
“Intrepid and DropShips report clear, Terran flight control report space lanes clear†Leftenant Charles Brownian reported from the tiny communications console.
“We have twenty percent power to main thrusters†Leftenant Lym Sato said smiling the sparkle was back in her eyes after all these months as gravity began to return to the ship as it moved under its own power “push reactor to sixty percent?†She asked Nathan nodded so Lym followed orders “re-routing power to Kearny-Fuchida auxiliary monitors, see if we can at least inspect some of the damage.†She said pushing the test one step further than planned but so far things were going very well.
“Main thrusters at thirty-one percent, achieving one half gravities speed.†Nathan said his feet were now being fully tugged to the deck as the ship moved.
“Oh hell!†Lym exclaimed both Nathan and Charles looked over at her, she was looking right at the deck.
“What’s up Lym?†Nathan asked routing some of her controls over to his monitors so he could inspect the trouble himself “oh hell†he whispered realising what she’d just noticed “Charley contact the Intrepid tell them I‘m calling an end to all tests today.â€
“What’s the problem?â€
“The K-F Core is knackered.†Nathan said looking over the damage “totally destroyed, we have power to sections but all the connections have been severed, the control damage was just the start of our problems.†He said looking over the systems he could monitor, a six month job had just turned into a several year job.
“It’s going to take years to gut it, replace and test a new core.†Lym said shaking her head, this job just got a lot harder.
“Well, at least we are with friends†Charles said with a weak smile the engineering team on the Fire Fang and on the Intrepid and her DropShips were closer than a regular military unit, but this job was beginning to push them far further than expected, this long in zero-g was bad for anyone, Nathan immediately thought about beginning to rotate out some of his team they’d come back to the job but not at the moment the Federated Suns would have to spend time manufacturing a core and transporting it, the Fire Fang could wait a little longer for further work, it certainly wasn’t going anywhere.
"How about dinner?" Lym asked it wasn't the Christmas gift any of them had wanted but at least they could make the best of the day. Nathan couldn't disagree with her, this job was not going to be over quick.
Varnay Anchorage
Legacy (Legacy-class Yardship)
Varnay System, Nova Cat’s Den
31st December 3075
After a year of refitting in the Draconis Combine and then in the Nova Cat’s Den the captured vessel Stellar Serpent is re-launched as the Dragon’s Failing. The vessel is no longer an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, its primarily Naval Autocannon weapons armament has been removed making way for capital and sub-capital missiles backed up with class-35 naval autocannons, heavy naval lasers and a conventional array of Hyper Assault Gauss Rifles class-40s, the Nova Cats had changed the vessel‘s class description to match the vessel‘s new capabilities. The Dragon’s Failing was now classed as a Patriot-class Heavy Missile Cruiser.
The vessel was named specifically at the Draconis Combine‘s failure to keep a hold of the vessel in the New Samarkand system and its failure to refit the vessel to a superior capability than that it when they captured it. For the first time, since its capture from the Combine, the Dragon’s Failing takes to space on its own ready to begin space trials. Fully armed the Heavy Cruiser would be capable of fighting off any of the major WarShips around it and armed with the right weapons could match the largest of the WarShips in the Inner Sphere. Following trials the craft would fill a slot in the Santin West Naval Star Supporting Clan Nova Cat‘s operations in the Periphery, Inner Sphere and beyond.
Hope you enjoyed 3075, 3076 following shortly
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3076
First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry Command
Grand Base, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
8th January 3076
Quietly one at a time under the Capellan Confederation’s command structure’s eyes the commanders of the First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry begin to quietly transfer members of other regiments into the First Regiment based on Grand Base. They also begin to quietly slow production at the McCarron’s Grand Base factory and transfer supplies to the First Regiment over others blaming transfers on customs issues and DropShip breakdowns. Slowly the amount of warriors loyal to the sitting Chancellor, serving within the First McCarron’s regiment, dropped to less than a two companies.
Also the support forces are beefed up using warriors from the other regiments, commanders of the First Regiment claim this is in preparation for using the First as the Big Mac’s OppForce in coming proposed war games. In reality these warriors will be a sponge to protect the core of the regiment which is loyal to the McCarron regiments, and their commanders, before anything else.
Conference
Detroit, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
14th January 3076
For the third time representatives of the Taurian Concordat, Fronc Reaches and the Filtvelt Coalition meet this time on Detroit inside the Fronc Reaches. With all three neighbouring Periphery realms together around the same table they agree that the Reaches Coalition Pact will be expanded to encompass the Taurian Concordat in Trade and some defence agreements, though it is not as deep a relationship as that of the Fronc Reaches and the Filtvelt Coalition it is a massive step to uniting the entire Periphery region near the Capellan Confederation and Federated Suns periphery border.
During the various meetings the Filtvelt Coalition hides the involvement of the Nova Cat’s in their affairs completely hiding the trade agreements and mutual defence shared by the Periphery Realm and the Clan. Part of the Filtvelt support team is a member of the Nova Cat’s Watch Organisation watching and gathering information on the other nations of the Reaches Coalition Pact for the Nova Cat Clan, although the Filtvelt Coalition are aware of this act of subterfuge they do not attempt to interdict their Clan neighbours afraid the Nova Cat’s anger, and the Clan’s raw power, could be turned on their small nation.
Under a week later Clan Sea Fox’s Predator Khanate also contacts the small Filtvelt Coalition negotiating for the rights to build a Small Arms and Ammunition factory on the world of Memphis for five years. During this period the Sea Fox’s would take control of three percent of the world and be allowed to use all the resources taken in this trade while selling upwards of fifty percent of the small arms weapons to the Filtvelt Coalition. Unbeknown to the Filtvelt Coalition’s leadership the Predator Khanate also build a Battle Armour manufacturing plant underneath the Small Arms factory building hundreds of Battle Armour suits right under the Filtvelt people’s noses and shipping them out with regular DropShip visits.
Border Dispute
Duchy of Andruien/Capellan Confederation
30th January 3076
The Capellan Confederation was a divided nation, something the Chancellor and her people did not like and wanted to make a change to. First steps in this task were the movement of the Capellans Elite Warrior House Battalions, in the first wave with the Houses Kamata and Hiritsu landing on Conquista outclassing the First Andruien Sentinels Regiment ripping it apart within a few very short weeks. At almost the same time Warrior Houses Dai Da Chi and Ma-Tsu Kai land on Lurgatan conquering this world in quick succession unfortunately the two Houses transport was interdicted by renegade Sentinel Aerospace fighters that destroyed the ships when they tried to jump clear. On the ground the Fourth Andruien Sentinels regiment was quickly overrun by the elite Capellan troops. Supporting the invasion fully Warrior House Fujita landed on Sadurni without resistance, even the local population who by all accounts hated the Capellan people seemed happy to have the Reinforced Battalion on the world. On Shiro III an unprepared assault by an eager and under strength Warrior House Ijori set them up for a long bloody fight between the Capellan and Duchy forces. The final Warrior House, and least experienced, Doru landed first on Calseraigne and Pilpala conquering both quickly and almost bloodlessly.
HPG Communication Link
New Avalon, Tharkad
Federated Suns, Lyran Alliance
1st February 3076
When the link had first been made Peter Steiner-Davion had not believed it, the cost was prohibitive enough but the logistics would have made such a thing impossible. Unfortunately for the Lyran Archon his brother seemed to have an ability to prove the Impossible incorrect more often than not. On the screen above his throne on icy Tharkad was Victor Steiner-Davion, his elder brother and First Prince of the Federated Suns, sitting on his own throne on New Avalon.
“Brother, it has been some time; I hope you and your family bode well?†Peter asked more out of diplomatic protocol than anything he actually felt for his brother, neither Steiner-Davion sibling had gotten on well when they were younger, always on the move between their once allied nations or one military posting to the next.
“I am well Peter, as are my family†Victor said stern faced, Peter had never seen his brother this intense except when facing down an enemy. He hoped the man that had championed his succession over their sister was not ready now to turn on him also, there were those that said that Victor still eyed the Lyran throne. “I have heard your news†the Federated Suns leader said “I wanted to offer my heart-felt condolences. Is there anything the Wolves have been able to do for her?†Victor asked referring to Peter’s youngest child Melinda-Anne Steiner. Peter’s head sunk slightly, he’d almost thought the worse of his brother’s call when in fact it was a call of concern.
“They do not believe there is anything to be done with what they have available, the Exiles have not the resources to devote much on medical facilities especially for one who is not of their own.†He said slightly resigned to her fate “however, she is strong and will not give in to this.â€
“Perhaps I can help?†Victor asked “I am willing to open the New Avalon Institute of Sciences to this problem Peter; they will not rest until she is better.â€
“Like our father provided for Joshua Marik†Peter said before thinking, Victor had been there when their father, Hanse Davion, had offered Thomas Marik care for his dying son. That offer came at a price the Free Worlds League’s might of production was turned to produce weapons of the Federated Suns, Lyran Alliance and Draconis Combine to help fight the Clans. The NAIS had failed and Victor had replaced Joshua with a replica even after the boy’s death.
“Brother, I am not Katherine; this is my blood I have an obligation to help. Joshua was a mistake of my youth, one that I must live with for the rest of my life and one I am reminded about every time I look at my own children. Peter, I open my nation to your family, they can come and reside on New Avalon with your daughter with as much security as you deem necessary, it may even help her recovery. You are also welcome to come alone walk the soil of your birth once more if you believe it necessary.â€
“I cannot.†Peter said after several moments thinking it over in his head “I have to safeguard my nation, something I cannot do even with this technical triumph that allows us to talk.†He said, the pain etched in his face the treatment the NAIS could provide would far surpass anything that could be had in the Lyran Alliance “If Isis were to come to New Avalon with my daughter would that be acceptable? I will remain here until there is a time I may be needed.â€
“She is most welcome Peter; though Yvonne is no longer here to keep her company I’m sure Danai will fill this void.â€
“I will send them, Victor, I thank you. Isis and Melinda will have a full escort, I expect you to allow them to enter without trouble, the longer Melinda is away from true medical facilities the worse her situation could become.â€
“Peter, trust me I will have WarShips prepared to meet them the moment they enter my realm and they will be under strict instructions to move with all due haste to New Avalon.â€
“Again Victor I thank you.†Peter said saluting his brother, who returned the salute, before the link cut off. Within six hours Peter had cut orders for the LAS Adam Steiner, a Fox-class Corvette, and the LAS Berlin, an Artemis-class Diplomatic Escort vessel, to travel to Arc-Royal to collect Isis Steiner and Melinda-Anne Steiner. At Arc-Royal the Wolves had already outfitted one of their own WarShips the Killing Blow, a Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette to transport Melinda in a specially refitted medical suite. In all they would have three WarShips to escort them across the Inner Sphere into the Federated Suns and hopefully save Melinda-Anne’s life without further delay they began their journey to the NAIS facility on New Avalon.
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Finally got caught up on all the posts. Keep at it, lest your labor of love be never finished.
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Finally got caught up on all the posts. Keep at it, lest your labor of love be never finished.
It'll only end when time runs out :)
First Round
Duchy of Andruien/Capellan Confederation
8th February 3076
Supporting the invasion of the Duchy of Andruien from the Canopus half of the Capellan nation the First Canopian Cuirassiers Regiment landed on Aspropirgos and Butzfleth conquering both periphery worlds in quick and easy succession. Also from the Capellan nation came the First Canopian Light Horse landing on Piriapolis and Fagerholm taking them easily and quickly this is despite the discovery of a Heavy Vehicle Construction Plant on Fagerholm, it becomes obvious to the Capellan invaders that the Duchy of Andruien is sacrificing its outer worlds to protect Andruien. Finally the First Canopian Fusiliers landed on Claybrooke to ceremony and celebration from the people, who welcomed the Canopian troops with open arms, as with previous invasion attempts from the Magistracy of Canopus the world defects as soon as a Canopian solider arrives in system, their rebellious population happy to leave the doomed Duchy.
Coyote Territory
Grant’s Station, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
16th February 3076
Clan Steel Viper invade Clan Coyote’s territory on Grant’s Station in the Kerensky Cluster pushing an entire Cluster over the border between the Clans in less than an hour but getting no-where. In sixteen hours the Coyotes have pushed the Steel Vipers back to their original starting point with over two clusters of troops from both Clans lying dead or injured on the battlefield. During the fight there is a surprising inclusion of two Athena 2 Heavy Battle Tanks from Clan Hell’s Horse manufacture on the Steel Viper side.
Second Wave
Duchy of Andruien/Capellan Confederation
20th February 3076
With the first round of worlds secure or under Capellan siege Capellan Confederation move forward their schedule and assault their next wave of targets like the First Wave the Capellan Confederation troops assaulting first. First was the Red Lancers Regiment, thrown off of Sian, they were now used as a blunt instrument to beat the Third Andruien Sentinels Regiment on El Giza and Hudeiba, the elite unit may have been betrayed by the new Capellan Chancellor but given a target they were more than happy to tear the Andruien Regiment to pieces in very short order.
Forwarding their assaults the Sung’s Rangers land on Mosiro to support the Confederation’s assaults on the Duchy of Andruien. The regiment make quick their assaults on Mosiro attacking the Seventh Andruien Sentinels Regiment on the world, unfortunately for the Capellan unit the Seventh was far more skilled at guerrilla tactics and sneak attacks and in a short week the Sung’s Rangers have lost two Battalions of troops to the Andruien troops and a very hostile native population. The Kingston’s Rangers Regiment are called to support them, instead of taking the conventional approach these new troops favour a far more brutal style of warfare, entering urban areas and turning their weapons on community centres and other civilian shelters calling out the Seventh’s troops. If they failed to appear, or in many cases even when they had appeared, the Liao troops would set the civilian targets on fire using several Firestarter BattleMechs spread throughout the Regiment and inferno equipped Battle Armour and infantry troopers.
In less than forty-eight hours the combined troops brutal tactics did what the Sung’s Rangers could not do in a week. Naomi Centrella sent her personal congratulations as well as orders for the units name to be changed to the Centrella Rangers and for the remnants of the Sung’s Rangers to be folded into the Regiment. Elsewhere in the former-Free Worlds League and in the greater Inner Sphere when word of these war crimes became known this regiment is called to face trial, Naomi Centrella refuses to release her unit or its personnel for trial.
Second Wave Continued
Duchy of Andruien/Capellan Confederation
24th February 3076
Just like the first wave the second Capellan wave was followed by a second Canopian wave the Second Canopian Cuirassiers Regiment landed on two Duchy worlds like the First Regiment had done, the worlds of Villenueva and Igonish both fell almost without a shot being fired. The populations tell that their defenders and militia have been recalled to Andruien to support the defence of their crumbling nation’s leaders.
Following their easy assault on Claybrooke in the first wave the First Canopian Fusiliers were ready for their next fight. Supported and then replaced by the Third Canopian Fusiliers Regiment on Claybrooke the First Regiment moved further into the Duchy of Andruien landing on Cursa finding the Fifth Andruien Sentinels Regiment loading into DropShips. Without hesitation the commander of the Fusiliers orders a fire-bomb attack on the DropShips, the sticky napalm inferno fuel explosives roast an entire battalion alive inside their DropShip. Following this display the Andruien troops surrender under the heavy guns of the Canopian Fusiliers guns, several artillery pieces are targeted on the DropShips making certain doom for the Fifth Andruien Sentinels Regiment if they had fought.
Instead of sending in a fighting unit to deal with the world of tourist planet Lopez Chancellor Naomi Centrella landed on the world herself with a single company of the Centrella Black Guards and a single Union-class DropShip. In a low key affair they moved through the city of Orton, the planetary capital, high in the planet’s mountains to a small tourist hotel where Naomi booked ever single room for a week. After a weapons check from local militia security, which proved Naomi’s bodyguard only carried defensive weapons, the world’s leader Secretary General Charles Cunin agreed to meet her in the hotel.
“Chancellor, it is an honour to have you holiday on our world, we have never had someone of your stature on our world.†Charles said sitting opposite Naomi a long wooden table between them.
“I know.†Naomi said bluntly “I’m not going to beat around the bush Charles, I want your world’s allegiance.†She said moving around the table perching against it looking down at the older man, she’d worn a lime-green skin-tight jumpsuit especially for this meeting; it fit her body well and amplified her small breasts which she had seen Charles look at twice already.
“The Duchy have our world, as they have always, we owe them a lot. This world is small and unimportant, a Tourist haven in this region, an oddity for the scientific community.†Charles said, it was true Lopez shouldn’t have existed, it was the sole planet in a system with two stars it had no moons, a tainted atmosphere and an abundance of life, it shouldn’t have worked but it did and it worked well.
“True however your world is something of a cash-cow, something my nation could use. Perhaps not the pull of Solaris VII but people travel here from all over the Inner Sphere and that has an appeal to me. In the next six weeks my troops will land on Andruien. This Duchy, or at least what’s left of it, will be under my domain your nation will be cut off, you will have no chance of survival. What do you want Secretary?â€
“I want to be able to survive this change with my life intact, I want to be able to enjoy my retirement on this world I have called home and I want my people to live a peaceful existence under Capellan rules as they have under the Duchy of Andruien.â€
“I’ll give you that all.†Naomi said “this world’s only change will be that it’s GNP goes to Sian instead of Andruien and is home to a small security force from my nation, this will become my military’s vacation spot your world’s economy will grow. As for your retirement†she said drawing her hand across his cheek “that can be arranged, you have a daughter don’t you?†He nodded Nikki was his only child, how could this Capellan whore threaten her?
“Nikki Cunin will become this world’s new leader; your family will be hereditary Dukes of this world successively into the centuries to come. Your name will be sung by your family for generations, as will your daughters.†Naomi promised him, Charles smiled and nodded with a simple gesture that sealed his world’s fate. Twenty-four hours later Naomi was on her way off world four Capellan officers had been left to oversee operations until a security company from the Confederation arrived. These officers carefully controlled Nikki’s ascention to the post of Duchess and control over the world.
Lackland
Filtvelt Coalition, Periphery
28th February 3076
Using information gained from the Sea Fox Clan and resources gained from the same Clan and from Clan Nova Cat the Filtvelt Coalition hire several engineers from across the Inner Sphere and buy resources from several different places brining them together on Lackland.
From this information and using these resources the engineers begin converting a disused IndustrialMech factory on Lackland to production of BattleMechs. Though not able to produce a modern design like the Federated Suns’ Enforcer or even the Periphery built Marshal this plant is able to produce ancient BattleMech designs not seen for centuries. Using some industrial espionage and some negotiations with Federated Suns manufacturers the Filtvelt Coalition is able to gain access to and produce BattleAxe and Hammerhands BattleMechs by mid-3076. These Mechs are primitive compared to modern designs however they do provide a welcome defence boost to the tiny Filtvelt Coalition.
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Capellan Firebase
Sadurni, Former Duchy of Andruien
Capellan Confederation
9th March 3076
The conquest of Sadurni had been a cakewalk for Warrior House Fujita; they had set up a firebase outside the capital and began rounding up the ruler ship of the world in holding pens. The defenders of the world had disappeared on landing no-doubt crawling into the hole that the Andruien leadership had dug the defences from. Walking around his Warrior House’s firebase House Master Juan Bautista Wyeth looked as his sentries kept an eye out, at ninety-six years he was the oldest warrior in a command position of the Capellan Confederation. He had seen the fall of the Capellan nation during the Fourth Succession War, the rebirth of the nation under Sun-Tzu Liao and now the Centrella take over of the nation.
Walking into the holding pen area of the firebase Juan looked into the cages and saw many of the former leaders of the world, two or three had gotten through the net but the rest were here under his guard, control of the world followed. Unfortunately control over a world did not always ensure control over its people, as Juan looked over his captives a hail of missiles struck the distant corner of the firebase shattering the temporary wall, suddenly running towards the BattleMech maintenance area Juan looked over his should seeing an entire lance of Longbow Assault BattleMechs each firing their long range missile salvos. Running in front of them were smaller designs numbering at least twenty BattleMechs, they would have at least equal numbers to the Warrior House once the Warrior House Warriors were into their Mechs.
Powering his Men Shen OmniMech Juan stepped his Mech forward out of the maintenance area into the maelstrom against the assaulting enemy forces sidestepping a salvo of one hundred long range missiles he stepped into the fire of four Particle Projection Cannons, the medium design took four hits one on each leg, one in the right arm and a direct hit the OmniMech’s head. The power of the man-made lightning cannon ripped through the armour killing the pilot. Juan Bautista Wyeth’s legendary term of service as a warrior of House Liao came to an end as half his unit died and Sadurni’s leadership escaped the firebase and then the world retreating to Andruien.
Federated Suns Assault, Wave One
Hsien, Elgin, Hall, Keid, New Home, Bryant
Liao Commonality, Capellan Confederation
15th March 3076
With the Capellans interested in unifying the two halves of their nation and destroying the Duchy of Andruien the Federated Suns Capellan and Draconis March saw an opening to increase their overall strength and give their troops combat experience. With requests and orders quickly pushed through with the High Command troops from the two marches launched assaults into the Capellan Confederation’s Liao Commonality targeting six worlds in total, all were former Chaos March worlds that had once upon a time been Federated Commonwealth worlds.
Using mainly mercenary troops assigned to both marches supported by a few house regiments and two WarShips, to show there was support there, the Federated Suns troops moved forward. On Hsein the Sixth Syrtis Fusiliers Regimental Combat Team invaded the world it was supported by the Fifty-ninth Strike Regiment of the Illician Lancers, Bradley’s Bad Boys. Lending support to both regiments was the FSS James Sandoval, one of the Federated Suns Congress Block II-class Frigates; though the WarShip was unneeded it showed the Federated Suns power over the captured Capellan worlds. The fighting for Hsien was short and brutal with the local militia battalion are brushed aside quickly while the Third Confederation Armoured Cavalry Regiment put up a fight for six hours constantly withdrawing before blasting off the planet’s surface in the early hours of the morning the James Sandoval in high orbit gunned down three DropShips burning them in the atmosphere before capturing two more DropShip craft along with two Battalions of ground troops as prisoners of war - these Capellan troops were interned on the planet‘s surface held by the Federated Suns troops who were still angered at the attack on New Syrtis a year before.
Following the fall of Hsien came the fall of Hall this was to the One hundred-and-eightieth Dragoon Combat Group, Marie’s Golden Hammers, of the Lexington Combat Group Mercenary Brigade. Unlike the fight for Hsien Hall fell quickly almost without a shot fired. The One hundred-and-eightieth landed at three different landing zones around the capital city moving in together the local militia and a training unit surrendered after the city was breached at three separate points.
On New Home sat the First Capellan Defence Force Regiment, a regular but reliable unit, which had for years moved around the former Chaos March worlds making support on all the worlds as they had moved. Expecting local support both the Ninth Illician Rangers, the Roadrunners Regiment of the Illician Lancers Brigade, and the Wild Geese Regiment landed on the world taking secondary targets away from the defenders with minor skirmishes. After a week of skirmishes on the 22nd March the two mercenary regiments launched a combined assault on the First Capellan Defence Force’s main base camp, this assault included the use of DropShips for additional fire support, the Capellan’s had a surprise for the mercenaries. As they approached hidden automated defences and a multitude of traps activated all around the base, two Mercenary DropShips were obliterated by anti-air emplacements and both mercenary regiments found themselves bogged down. Although this was intended to hold back the mercenaries the Capellans had no intention on launching a counter strike instead they used the confusion caused by their surprises to launch five DropShips containing the entire Defence Force. Finally before the Roadrunners and the Wild Geese could push into the base the entire facility was consumed with napalm and inferno fuel explosions effectively erasing the base from the planet’s surface.
The Lexington Combat Group’s Thirty-second Recon Combat Group, Malcolm’s Sprinters had little trouble securing Keid from the Capellan defenders. And neither did the Wolf’s Dragoons Gamma Regiment which was supported by the WarShip Wolf Pack, the Dragoon’s newly acquired Davion Block III Destroyer, during their conquest of Elgin. The Wolf’s Dragoons unit is seen practicing a fast burn in system and a complicated Hover-drop insertion with the Wolf Pack in close support despite there being no danger of serious resistance on the world, with this evidence many outsiders believe the Dragoons are preparing their new warriors for a larger action.
Burn in System
Bryant, Liao Commonality
Capellan Confederation
22nd March 3076
The assault on Bryant was supposed to be a cakewalk for the Third Robinson Rangers RCT, supported by the FSS Lucian Davion, one of the Federated Suns three active Avalon-class Cruisers, the New Hessen Armoured Scouts Regiment and the Hydra Assault Squadron of the Medusans Mercenary Fleet. Unfortunately the things had conspired against the assault from the start with half of the Robinson Rangers JumpShips failing to make the jump for one reason or another. As a result the Lucian Davion lacked any of its usual Assault DropShips and instead was carrying the Robinson Rangers.
In system the Avalon’s advanced sensors detected the Capellan Confederation’s surprise for the mission. “Lucian to Ajax, we have a problem Admiral, the Capellans have placed their Thera in the system, along with its two hundred fighters and four assault DropShips. We may have to abort.†Admiral Michael Beatty said communicating with the Medusans Mercenary commander.
“Roger Admiral, they are but one ship, however, and it is their only Thera. I have six assault DropShips of hurt and you have some heavy weapons on that Cruiser of yours. We wouldn’t want Bryant being the only world that didn’t fall in this offensive.†Rear Admiral Henry H. Harwood commander of the Medusans said.
“Your forces will be outnumbered heavily even if the Robinson and Hessen Fighter wings joins you.†Beatty said warning the mercenaries for heavy losses.
“We can hold our own. A couple of hits and the Pride will run to its Chancellor guaranteed.†Harwood said winking as the six Medusans DropShips move over dorsal hull of the Avalon.
“Fair enough Beatty, weapons hot, red alert all hands prepare for combat.†He said the Avalon’s forward AR-10 Multi-Purpose Capital Missile Launches and Medium Naval Gauss Rifles spun up, the Avalon’s weapons array featured a better balance of extreme and short range weaponry than the Thera. At almost that same moment the Thera blossomed as the first of their two hundred plus aerospace fighters launched. “Capital Missile Batteries released to fire, Killer Whale selection†the primary weapons officer said followed by the secondary weapons officer “naval gauss rifles targeted… and firing†in a blaze of firepower capital missiles and gauss batteries engaged the Thera at extreme range, four missile hits and a single gauss strike cutting through the carrier’s armour.
In the middle ground the Medusans DropShips and fighters engaged the Capellan fighters and DropShips. At the same time the Medusans marines began boarding actions against one of the Capellan vessels. Unfortunately for the Capellans while the Thera had plenty of weapons to defend itself from fighters and DropShips, the Lucian Davion was made to fight WarShips, and soon the fighters were finding that they were being forced to retreat towards their retreating Carrier. Two wings set interceptor courses for the Davion Cruiser however between them was the two Medusans Leopard-CV carrier DropShips along with a squadron of Davion Dagger OmniFighters. Combined with this force and the Avalon’s own defences the Capellan fighters did little damage to the WarShip and were only able to destroy one of the DropShips.
“Admiral, the Chancellor’s Pride is in retreat, heading for a local pirate point. Remaining fighters and DropShips joining them.†His sensor officer reported, the Lucian Davion had a couple of slightly damaged hull armour sections and one destroyed naval autocannon, all easily repairable. The Chancellor’s Pride had one destroyed fighter bay and severe armour damage to the fore section, from the sensor data gathered by the Lucian it seemed that most of the Thera’s forward weapons were gone.
“Give me fleet wide†Michael Beatty said smiling standing up from his chair, the gravity was weak but the Lucian’s engines were still active so there was a little gravity “Lucian Davion to all forces, we have driven back the Chancellor’s Pride, she is due to exit the system in thirteen minutes. Return to base-ships and submit repair schedules. Well done people.†He said cutting the link, moments later the comm. Activated again with Admiral Harwood “Nice work Admiral†Beatty said smiling as he activated, on the bridge of the Ajax he could see a lot of smoke and blood was running down the left side of Harwood’s face.
“Aye, we got that fat Capellan bitch to pull back, not a moment too soon.†He said
“How bad have you been hit?†Beatty asked he came through the DropShip ranks himself however he’d never had major damage to any of his ships even fighting the Smoke Jaguars.
“Blown fuel line below decks, about twenty injured none too badly one dead, Peters, a good man.†He said quietly “had a console on the bridge blow, but the Daniel will pull through just fine. Ajax came off easy. I lost the Exeter, Ambuscade and the Challenger as well as half my fighters.â€
“I’m sorry for your losses, Admiral, the Federated Suns will assist with you financial losses.â€
“Aye but not our personnel ones. It was a tough call, Mike, but we did what needed to be done Bryant will fall to our forces and the Capellans got another bloody nose. We even captured their bloody Kuan Ti†he chuckled to himself, it was quite a catch “so I won’t complain too loudly.†Beatty said quietly the beginnings of a smile appearing, it was tough being a mercenary but they had gotten the job done.
Harwood’s prediction about Bryant was correct the world fell in a number of hours following the landing following the retreat of the Chancellor’s Pride and the overwhelming air support held by the Davion forces the world fell in short order falling just three hours after the initial landings. Admiral Michael Beatty put the Medusans in for a commendation for their actions supporting the invasion and protecting the Lucian Davion, as a result the High Command replaces all their fighter losses at discount prices and allows the Medusans Command to buy one of the Federated Suns Conquistador-class Troop/Command ships which the Medusans named Illustrious.
Captured Territory
Liao Commonality, Capellan Confederation
23rd March 3076
Throughout the former Duchy of Andruien the Capellan Confederation was stepping up efforts to secure its newly captured territory. This included moving several Magistracy based units to the new territories leaving many of the outer lying Magistracy worlds undefended, increasing the chances of pirate attack, the Marian Hegemony and many pirate bands on Astrokaszy and in the former-Free Worlds League ensure that these worlds suffer for the Capellan’s over confidence. Meanwhile Capellan Confederation forces prepare for the final assault on Andruien.
Coven, Clan Steel Viper Territory
Grant’s Station, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
28th March 3076
In a reckless assault against Clan Steel Viper’s territory on Grant’s Station Clan Coyote’s territory in a single minded assault a unit dubbed the ‘Second Beta Cluster’ because of its presence within Clan Coyote’s phantom Beta Galaxy assaulted the Steel Viper Enclave of Coven home to twenty-six thousand civilians and a small Steel Viper staging/landing area.
Without regard for the defending Vipers, of the One-hundred-and-twenty-sixth Strike Cluster Beta Galaxy, the Coyote warriors targeted the buildings and DropShips in the immediate area surrounding Coven starting grassland wild fires all around the battle site. Although it is no doubt that several hundred civilians died as a result of Coyote weapons fire or the Steel Viper counter assaults, it is obvious that most of the almost sixteen hundred civilian deaths were a result of these uncontrolled and untamed wild fires that leapt through the region during the battle.
Elsewhere in Clan business Clan Jade Falcon finally allows Clan Sea Fox to trade for the BattleMech Partial Wing system following a successful Trial of Grievance fought in the Clan Occupation Zones between the two Clans.
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Capellan Training Grounds
Capella, Liao Commonality
Capellan Confederation
8th April 3076
In an effort to show the rebirth of the Capellan Confederation, and in many ways to ensure they are not upstaged by the other states and even mercenary commands such as the Northwind Highlanders and Gray Death Legion, the Capellan Confederation debut the Ying Long Battle Armour. This Battle Armour suit is in the medium category and carries a shoulder mounted Recoilless Rifle and like the two recently developed mercenary Battle Armour designs the Ying Long uses the mimic technology seen first on the Word of Blake’s Purifier design. With ongoing hostilities on captured worlds of the Duchy of Andruien a platoon of this design is sent to each of the Elite Warrior Houses.
Border conflict
Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
12th April 3076
With the Capellan Confederation’s back turned and on the anniversary of the birth of his daughter Rachel O’Reilly, Caesar Julius O’Reilly orders his military against the Magistracy of Canopus’ half of the Capellan Confederation. Supported by the MHS Caesar and the MHS Lothario, the Magistracy’s two WarShips they launch a blitzkrieg type assault on their border worlds.
Commanded by Imperator David Gladding the Magistracy border worlds of Thraxa, Vixen, Gambilon, Palladix and Techne’s Revenge all fall in short order before the Magistracy realizes that its outer worlds are under heavy and concentrated assault. The Legio I, Legio VI and the Cohors Morituri all moved into the Canopus worlds braking the defenders back with quick assaults.
 
Nova Cat Training Grounds
New Scotland, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th April 3076
Although the Star League was meant to bring peace there were still wars going on in the Inner Sphere and Periphery the Federated Suns and Nova Cats were not neglecting their next generation. Following several months of negotiations an agreement is made between both nations, the training units of the Federated Suns will pit themselves against Nova Cat forces when available on a yearly basis.
First up for this task was the First Defiance Training Battalion, the newest of such Federated Suns units, to ensure the Nova Cats are not insulted by this move the unit was commanded by Leftenant-General Ross McKinnon and supported by the Fourth New Avalon Guards RCT’s Delta Company, itself commanded by Captain Damien Redburn. Sitting in his modified Black-Hawk KU, OmniMech with Clan weapon pods, the Federated Suns Prince’s Champion looked down the hill at the Nova Cat Firebase on the New Scotland of New Avalon. The Cavaliers were the Nova Cat’s attaché unit to the Nova Cat Ambassador to the Federated Suns, a front-line unit of Delta Galaxy ready to meet any attempt to engage the Nova Cat Clan.
Activating his communication’s suite the Federated Suns commander announced the Federated Suns challenge “Nova Cat forces of the Forty-Fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers Cluster, commanded by the honoured Star Colonel Cassin Drummond, I am Ross McKinnon Princes Champion of the Federated Suns commander of the First Defiance Training Battalion and Delta Company. I am here to challenge you to a series of trials, how do you answer?†He said, it was the closest that he could come to a formal Clan challenge, now to see how the Nova Cats would answer.
“This is Star Colonel Cassin Drummond, commander of the Forty-Fourth Cluster, we welcome you to this Trial, defend yourselves.†The straight forward response came from the Nova Cat commander, the air around the Defiance Training Battalion was suddenly full of munitions with artillery rounds landing all around them creating an instantly confused battleground. It wasn’t exactly standard clan tactics.
“Defiance, hold to me, Delta hit them and hold our flanks.†Ross said making orders on the fly, ‘time to act like a Clanner’ he thought to himself quickly. With the Defiance training Battalion holding together they would be his core force while the double strength force of Delta Company would hit the Nova Cats from the flanks hopefully keeping the Nova Cats busy defending their artillery.
As weapons fire was exchanged the Nova Cat’s forces appeared moving forward their Mechs taking a massive amount of fire. On the flanks the Nova Cat artillery abruptly stopped and the entire Cluster charged almost as one. With no pause the medium and heavy Mechs and vehicles that dominated the Cavaliers cluster smashed into the Training Battalion hitting them to its core. Ross saw a Nova Cat Shadow Cat OmniMech in the centre of the Nova Cat forces letting go with laser and missile fire on any takers the Nova Cats completely ignoring their dueling laws. Targeting the forty-five ton front-line Clan OmniMech Ross sent them a salvo of weapons fire, with Clan weapons the Black Hawk KU hit like a respectable Clan Heavy Weight instead of an overweight Inner Sphere Medium which the Standard OmniMech acted like. The Shadow Cat was hit all over with regular and pulse lasers from the fire, Ross’ cockpit temperature rose a dozen degrees in a minute as the fusion power plant worked overtime to keep up, the Clan OmniMech he was targeting withered under the simulated weapons fire and went down as the pilot lost control, it was a small victory for Ross but a welcome one. As he turned he noticed the Clan warriors were now in and around the Training Battalion’s Mechs and the Clan’s superior firepower was taking its toll. “McKinnon to Delta, report†he said flicking the communications to the Delta Company’s independent frequency.
“Delta Three, McKinnon, we are three Mechs down in Company One. No communications with Company Two.â€
“Where is Delta One?†McKinnon asked wondering about their commander Damien Redburn “K-O sir, Gauss Slug to face. Real fight he’d be K-I-A along with the rest downed pilots. Sir, these Nova Cats are taking no prisoners even in a simulated fight.†Delta Three reported McKinnon nodded his agreement, the Nova Cats were hitting them all over the place and taking no time tearing the Training Battalion troops to bits hopefully they were learning something from this. He certainly was, this particular Clan unit was willing to ditch its traditional fighting ways if it meant surprising its opponents and winning. Moments later Ross learnt something, don’t think and fight, as his OmniMech was hit by four Extended Range Particle Projection Cannons. The electronic discharge from the massed fire began overloading systems on his Mech as damage reports came in, Ross glanced down the board of red lights showed his Black Hawk had lost half of its weapons, the left arm was gone and the right thigh actuator was frozen. Moving round in a half step movement Ross noticed his attacker a Nova Cat OmniMech, a seventy ton energy beast which carried all four of its particle cannons in arm mounted pods Ross had never seen the configuration before and guessed it was non standard to the design. “McKinnon, Defiance One.â€
“Go ahead General†Colonel Drake McMillan commander of the Training Battalion and a former NAIS Instructor.
“I’m going down pull your forces out of here, the plan’s screwed.†Ross said keeping it simple firing several pulse laser blasts into the armoured Nova Cat, Ross hear his communication grid activate at the same time as the Nova Cat fired again. Four Particle cannons washed over his Black Hawk KU the simulated damage caused all the monitors to flicker and fade rattling the entire Mech from tip-to-toe and all the screens went blank, he was dead, “damn†Ross said out loud, around him the battle continued for another twenty minutes.
With Ross out of the fight the Nova Cat Cavaliers hadn’t stopped their assaults on the Training Battalion or Delta Company, not one of the Federated Suns troopers would have left the field in a real fight. As his OmniMech came back online the Black Hawk showed full readiness it would be a long week working with the Nova Cats in this kind of mood. Surprisingly Ross McKinnon was completely wrong the Nova Cats were in a far better mood following the fight and as soon as they left their cockpits they began going through the motions of the fight between the two groups, as Ross moved to the ground Star Colonel Cassin Drummond approached his Mech “General McKinnon, it has been some time since you faced Nova Cat guns, you held up well considering our units advantage in experience.†He said tossing Ross a fresh water bottle, being cooped up in a Mech’s cockpit during a fight was a good way of becoming dehydrated.
“Well they are not the Fox’s Teeth but I think we faced the threat well, considering we were but a training unit and your Clan unit used… unconventional tactics.†He saw Cassin smile at his careful use of words. “Shame about that Nova Cat though…†He said referring to the Mech that took him down the Nova Cat Star Colonel chuckled slightly “all in all I’d say a good fight†Ross finished.
“Aff, the first of many†Cassin promised as the two warriors walked off together discussing the fight and the rest of their planned week of troubles. Fortunately for the Federated Suns troopers Drummond promised McKinnon the Nova Cats would be using traditional Clan tactis in at least some of the battles.
JumpShip Route 3.16
Magistracy of Canopus Commonality
Capellan Confederation
25th April 3076
Without warning five JumpShips, a Monolith, two Tramps, an Invader and a Scout-class vessels, with thirteen DropShips between them along with thousands of crew all disappear from one of the Magistracy of Canopus’ main trade routes. The ships had been enroute to assist in the invasion of the Duchy of Andruien and between them carried millions of C-Bills worth of equipment not even factoring in the cost of the five near JumpShips and their trained crews.
When regular efforts to find the ships fail the WarShip Anhui, an Impavido-class Destroyer, and an entire wing of Hell’s Black Aces Aerospace Regiment are directed to assist in search operations. It would take those three weeks to arrive at the JumpShips last known coordinates and by then the trail was well cold. Despite all their work and resources, all five JumpShips, their crews and everything attached to them completely gone. By the end of 3076 the Capellan High Command marks all as lost with all hands despite finding nothing to prove their destruction.
Invasion Drop
Andruien, Duchy of Andruien
Former Free Worlds League
29th April 3076
From high orbit supported by the Tikonov-class Carrier, CCSS Tikonov, the equivalent to almost eight regiments of Capellan troops dropped onto Andruien with full aerospace and naval support. On the ground were four Andruien Reinforced Regiments supported by several aerospace wings. The Capellan invaders were brutally efficient with their blunt force approach to the invasion with Warrior House Kamata crashed through the roof of Andruien’s famous Botanical Gardens with full aerospace support.
Although directed at breaking the local defences moral instead it galvanized the First Humphreys Royal Guards to brave overwhelming aerospace support to engage Warrior House Kamata. As the First Guards were cut down by the elite Capellan troops, supported by the masses of aerospace fighters, while the battle progressed the Red Lancers Regiment crashed through the roof of the Humphreys’ Royal Palace. Intent on striking the Humphreys’ family they found that Duchess Delma Humphreys and her family had been evacuated hours before to a secure facility on the planet. The Red Lancers turned on the palace itself burning the building down to its foundations.
Supporting the invasion but not expecting any combat St Cyr’s Armoured Hussars landed near the Sondahl Falls, one of the worlds most beautiful natural wonders, securing the visiting centre they readied themselves for an easy assignment. From their position near the Falls the unit’s electronic experts detected radio transmissions, braving the torrents of the Falls they travelled through the water to find a secret bunker defended by several infantry squads which were dispatched quickly by the St Cry’s weapons fire. Inside the bunker they discovered Duchess Dame Delma Humphreys and several of her surviving family members who had been directing defences these important prisoners were placed under heavy guard and transferred to the capital to be “looked after†by the Red Lancers.
Following reports of their capture to the local population there were mass riots in the capital city as the people protested their leader’s capture. The Capellans took no chances using BattleMechs as crowd control assets the MechWarriors were ordered to keep the peace by any means, in three hours fire the Mechs caused nearly six hundred civilian deaths as the Warriors kept the peace with their guns. On hearing of these deaths and the continuing troubles on Andruien Chancellor Naomi Centrella, still vacationing on Lopez, ordered the Red Lancers to end the Humphreys threat in an extreme measure of enforcing the peace. Delma Humphreys and several of her family were accordingly lined up against the Wall of Martyrs in Jojoken and without further hesitation in front of a beaten public they were executed.
The executions caused outrage throughout the Former Free Worlds League and from the surrounding Inner Sphere. To kill a nation’s leading family was seen as an act that echoed the Usurper’s killing of the Camerons and as a threat to all the leading families. If it could happen once then why not again, perhaps to their families, Naomi coldly replied if it was effective the other lords would do exactly the same. Unsurprisingly the troubles on Andruien escalate for several days as the public show their anger however after a series of crackdowns by Capellan troops followed by further executions of local leaders the troubles quickly subside.
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Tikonov-class Carrier stats please! :)
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Tikonov-class Carrier stats please! :)
I have a few to catch up on
here's the Galley, a little bit of a mess since I did it by hand
http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/galley-class-frigate-(corvette)/msg23434/#msg23434 (http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/galley-class-frigate-(corvette)/msg23434/#msg23434)
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Naval Regional Command, New Samarkand
New Samarkand Military District, Draconis Combine
4th May 3076
From the command centre on New Samarkand Warlord Kiyomori Minamoto could see all the assets available to me in the New Samarkand Military District including WarShips, military house units, mercenary units and Special Forces. The border to the ‘east’ of the district was the Outworlds Alliance occupied by Clan Snow Raven, he did not believe the official alliance line that it was a partnership. To the ‘south’ was the Federated Suns’ Draconis March as always they were dangerous ready for the Draconis Combine’s moment of weakness. While on the ‘west’ was the Pesht Military District of the Draconis Combine and to the ‘north’ there was the wilds of the Periphery far beyond lay the twinkling lights that were Clan space, barely known to the Draconis Combine.
Entering from the far door came Shakir Jerrar, Director of the Internal Security Force and slowly the man who controlled all Combine Intelligence assets. Though pushing sixty-five years old the man still had a strong grip on what was happening around him and how to use information and people. Moving over beside the Warlord he remained quiet as Kiyomori looked the map and various orders that had been passed to his units and vessels.
“So Shakir what have you for us today?â€
“News from the Snow Raven Occupation Zone†Shakir Jerrar said, like many within the Draconis Combine he refused to call the nation either the Outworlds Alliance or the Raven Alliance. “It seems they run deep space trade convoys past our nation’s borders, often in conjunction with the Sea Fox and Nova Cat Clan.â€
“And why would that interest us? They are beyond our borders?â€
“Occasionally they have penetrated our borders to charge their jump drives quicker with our better quality stars. Though they have done little damage to us and pose no threat to the Combine’s security, I only mention this as we have a squadron ready.†The Intelligence man said following Kiyomori Minamoto’s gaze, he was already looking at the four WarShips holding position over the world. Together they formed the Musashi WarShip Flotilla, these WarShips utilise Command, Coordination and Control systems (C3) on naval scale and would always work together, with attached C3 equipped DropShip forces.
“Yes, we do Director.†Minamoto said looking at the four vessels Musashi, the mighty Yamato-class Battleship, was at the centre with the Pride of New Samarkand, a Kyushu-class Frigate modified to act like a Carrier vessel, alongside the smaller Fire Crest, a Congress-class Frigate that used to belong to the Smoke Jaguar Clan, and the smaller still Lair of Mighty Wyrms, a Tatsumaki-class Destroyer below, capable of pounding a vessel to pieces with autocannon and laser weaponry. Together these four WarShips formed a strong portion of the Draconis Combine WarShip strength, supporting them were several of the finest assault DropShips the Draconis Combine could produce many of them equipped with Naval-class C3 systems.
“If we deployed them to the near periphery then the chances of intercepting a Clan flotilla would raise dramatically, the amount of salvage we could expect would also raise.†The director said Minamoto nodded his people could inflict a devastating blow on the Clans with their newest weapon.
“Cut the orders Shakir, have the squadron move out to the periphery, they can remain on station for one week if they come across the Clans then we can test their capabilities, if not we will have to wait for a different enemy.â€
Fourth Martial Olympiad
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
10th May 3076
As the Fourth Martial Olympiad begins there are two surprise additions to the competitions. The first is the MHS Caesar, the Marian Hegemony’s Dart-class Light Cruiser, although it is not the first time the vessel has been to the Martial Olympiad the Caesar has been modified over the standard Dart carrying several Rocket Launchers and Medium Autocannons. The second such surprise visitor to the Olympiad is the SLS Liberty, the newly completed Vincent Mk.45-class Pocket Carrier, this vessel is not partaking in any competition as it is on a trial run from the Sol System following its modifications.
For the other competitors these vessels are of major interest as these vessels are a strong indication of where the SLDF’s Navy and the Marian Hegemony’s Naval forces are currently standing. The Caesar’s upgrades are not noticeably an improvement over the standard Dart however the Vincent Mk.45 upgrade is a fully capable WarShip and is a vast improvement over the standard Vincent Mk.39 or Mk.42 versions in service with the Clans or in mothball in the Terra system.
Musashi Flotilla
Uninhabited System
Periphery beyond Draconis Combine
15th May 3076
The Musashi Naval Flotilla had waited for almost a week in the deep Periphery when the Snow Ravens come through the system. Unfortunately for the Draconis Combine WarShips instead of just a trade convoy coming into the system the six WarShips of the Brim Naval Star of Clan Snow Raven enters the system with a trade convoy. The Snow Raven/Outworlds Alliance force immediately goes on the offensive attacking the Musashi flotilla in what appears to be a hopelessly one sided fight, the Draconis Combine had never been famous for their Naval prowess and now they faced two masters of the form.
As the Conqueror and Arc Royal, the Brim Naval Star’s two Conqueror-class Battle-cruisers, launched two hundred aerospace fighters and closed ranks the Magpie, a standard Congress-class Frigate and the Huninn, a Vincent Mk.42-class Corvette surged forward escorted by half a dozen DropShips and the Star’s fighter force. The Treachery remained at the rear with the half dozen JumpShips that had accompanied the Star, the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser had impressive firepower however it was heavily laden with DropShips and troops and the crew had rightly decided to remain out of this fight.
Using the Naval C3 system that bound their WarShips and DropShips together the Draconis Combine forces surprised the Snow Ravens by charging forward themselves. Supported by over one hundred fighters from the Pride of New Samarkand and long range fire support from the Musashi itself the two smaller vessels, the Fire Crest and the Lair of Mighty Wyrms, met the Magpie and Huninn in the middle ground. With the Naval C3 active and transmitting fire data to the Musashi and Pride’ the Huninn was the first Snow Raven WarShip to die as six Heavy Naval Gauss rounds from the corvette amidships literally ripping the small vessel in half with the sheer velocity of the impacts. The Lair’ charged through the gap created attempting to reach the two Battle-cruisers and the Raven convoy, if it could the Draconis Combine forces could bring near point-blank long range strikes on the Raven vessels. With its conventional arrays, fighters and DropShips concentrated on the fighters the only thing the Tatsumaki had to worry about was the William Adams, the Brim Naval Star’s Whirlwind-class Destroyer. Though and old vessel compared to the Conqueror’s that remained silent waiting at the rear of the formation the Whirlwind was a formidable vessel with several racks of heavy naval autocannons, thanks to its Davion ancestry.
With hundreds of fighters and nearly a dozen DropShips engaged in and around the Magpie and Fire Crest there was no fire support for the Lair’ while the William Adams could call on the Conqueror, Arc Royal and Treachery for support if required. The Lair’ charged in like its tornado namesake, Tatsumaki, and was met by autocannon volley followed by autocannon volley first from the William Adams and then from both the Arc Royal and Conqueror the Snow Ravens themselves breaking their engagement rules. With this amount of firepower arrayed against it the armour of the Tatsumaki failed as the Whirlwind blew away the tornado ending any real threat to the Snow Raven fleet. With the loss of the destroyer the Draconis Combine naval troops began a steady retreat with the Fire Crest breaking off from the Magpie covered by fighters and DropShips as well as long range fire from the Musashi, which snapped the back of the Magpie as it attempted to follow the Fire Crest and turn the steady retreat into a rout.
Not to be outdone in long range combat, and showing the Draconis Combine what true firepower could do, the Treachery opened fire with a full broadside of Naval Particle Projection Cannons first burning the Fire Crest from stem to stern then burning the paint off the Musashi and the Pride of New Samarkand. Recovering what fighters remained as quickly as possible the two Combine WarShips retreated from the system as quickly as their Jump-drives could fire unwilling to risk loosing the entire Musashi Squadron to the Snow Raven force. Though this was a loss for them, the Snow Raven force did not feel it could count this as a victory neither. The Draconis Combine’s aggressiveness had robbed them of any number advantage they had, they had lost an equal amount of vessels to the Draconis Combine a nation that had never fielded great amounts of naval firepower or shown great skill in space. Not only that the Draconis Combine vessels had shown they could match a greater amount of Clan opponents and scrape away with what was effectively a draw.
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If you have not guessed yet I must ask. Pocket Carrier stats please! ;D
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INN Special Broadcast
Magistracy of Canopus
Capellan Confederation
6th June 3076
“Ladies and Gentlemen, good morning, I am Emma Valentine. Today this special Inner Sphere News Network Broadcast brings you worrying information from the Periphery regions.†The news broadcaster said as the lights came up in the INN studio. Behind her a map of the Inner Sphere space appeared with the various Succession States and the Periphery surrounding distant. “Six days ago a Canopian Civilian JumpShip entered the Inner Sphere brining news to Capellan Confederation commanders.†She said as sensor data and images were played behind Emma’s desk “as these leaked images show the Canopian vessel detected and was approached by two vessels. Capellan military and civilian analysts have identified these vessels, as a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser and a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser.†She said pausing to let this sink in, no such vessels should exist in that area of space.
“Are these vessels left over from the original Star League like the famed Vandenberg White Wings? Or are they from some unknown colony lost to time? No-one knowsm and this reporter can confirm that none of the Inner Sphere Intelligence agencies know anything about them. Could they even be from the Clans who are known to operate in the Periphery? Could this be the vanguard for a new Invasion of the Inner Sphere?†She didn’t want to scare people; however, this was why the news was here, to inform people. “Capellan Confederation High Command have refused to comment on these images or the analysis available however INN sources within the Magistracy of Canopus half of the Capellan realm have confirmed that the WarShip Anhui and its Hell‘s Black Aces Aerospace Wing†she said as a picture of an Impavido-class Destroyer with the Hell’s Black Aces Insignia appeared behind her “which had been assigned to the search for a missing trade convoy in the area, have been tasked with investigating this encounter and reporting back to the Capellan Command. Though we have been denied access to the Trader who encountered these WarShip the reassignment of one of the Capellan’s few WarShips shows how serious they are taking this encounter.â€
Trading Agreement
Tamar, Clan Wolf Capital
Clan Occupation Zone Inner Sphere
14th June 3076
In an agreement between the Trading Forces of Clan Sea Fox and Clan Wolf an agreeable solution is reached by both Clans. In the deal Clan Sea Fox are able to gain the upgraded stats for the Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser from Clan Wolf, which the Wolves have designated as Dire Wolf, after the first such vessel. In exchange for these upgrades the Sea Fox Clan agree to provide the Wolves with several new vehicle designs, both from themselves and from the Nova Cats, the design specifications for the Gauss SMG personal weapon and a significant supply of the HarJel compound crucial for Clan WarShip and Battle Armour production. With the Dire Wolf specifications the Sea Foxes retreat to their Jarnfolk Shipyards and begin upgrades to the Snapping Jaws Khanate’s own Nagasawa before they trade the upgrades to the other Clans.
FSS Adam Davion (Congress Block II-class Frigate)
Nadir Point, Panpour
Capellan March, Federated Suns
21st June 3076
The FSS Adam Davion sat at the Nadir point of the Panpour system charging its K-F Drive after exercises in the system, the Congress Block II was sitting idle most of the crew enjoying some down-time away from regular duties. On the command deck Leftenant-Commander Lisa Perez, the vessel’s tactical officer, sat in the commander’s chair both the Captain and First Officer were taking well earned time off.
“Commander, we are detecting a ship moving towards the Nadir point, Recharge Station isn’t expecting anyone and there are no JumpShips due. It‘s way too small to be Jump Capable and moving at that speed.†The auxiliary sensor officer said, he was young and inexperienced with Command duties but wasn’t stupid, a ship that small couldn’t jump.
“Could it be a prototype JumpShip from Panpour yards? They sometimes accelerate them outside the gravity well.†Lisa suggested, she should know of course she used to work at those very shipyards before joining the AFFS Admiralty.
“Negative, wrong silhouette and that ship has a clear engine flare, she’s under her own power.â€
“Hail them, perhaps they are going to rendezvous with an incoming JumpShip and the schedule hasn’t been updated.â€
“Aye, sir.â€
“Should we raise alert level?†Leftenant Arthur Higgins asked slipping into the Tactical systems chair beginning to buckle in.
“Negative, let the crew enjoy their time off, there is no definite danger. Have the CAP approach the vessel do a fly-by get some additional data for us.†She ordered sending the Combat-Air-Patrol past the vessel would be a clear warning that there was an AFFS presence near-by. The two Aerospace fighters accelerated from their holding pattern off the Adam Davion’s bow and headed over towards the ship.
“Nothing on hails commander, I’m reading elevated power signatures can’t clear up all the interference.â€
“Alert Two?†Arthur asked adding a belated “sir†to his question Lisa nodded.
“Affirmative†Lisa said “helm 0.2G burn down spin, warm up the forward guns Captain and First Officer to Command.†She said handing out rapid fire orders and announcements round the command bridge.
“Increasing interference and power output…†Sensors reported then he bolted from his chair in the newly increased gravity “Adam to CAP, break, break, break, she’s away to jump!†He shouted the two approaching Aerospace Fighters veered away from the target as the small vessel’s engines halted, it shimmered and disappeared in a flash of light.
“What the hell?†was all that broke the silence on the bridge, the crew were stunned by a single tiny vessel. In the following days and weeks the AFFS Admiralty, DMI and MIIO would identify the vessel as a Bug-Eye. A highly advanced Surveillance and Information Gathering Jump-capable craft, the smallest vessel capable of successfully jumping from system to system without a mother vessel. With the conformation of this Bug-Eye sighting it is the first recorded sighting of this type of vessel since the fall of the First Star League, none of the Succession States or Clans, to the Federated Suns’ knowledge field such craft.
Third Star League Games
Solaris VII, Isle of Skye
Star League Protectorate
31st June 3076
With the Martial Olympiad underway on Defiance the Third Annual Star League Games took place on Solaris VII. Though nowhere near the prestige of fighting for your nation the Star League Games held again within the rebuilt Star League Stadium are massive success with the viewers giving the regular Solaris VII competitions a trouncing in all the network rating. Unlike previous Games however these are set in stone almost at the beginning with a former Clan Wolf warrior named Spectre, piloting a Lycurgus Assault OmniMech, dominating each of the fights he battles in. Like the famed Bounty Hunter he wears a fully sealed piloting suit whenever in the cockpit or in public.
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Practice Yard
Forbidden Palace, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
3rd July 3076
During his daily sword practice there is an “assassination attempt†against Dao-Shen Centrella as all three of his opponents attempt to bring him down in coordinated blows. Although to an outsider this could looked as if his trainers were attempting to make him the best swordsman possible, the six year old Dao-Shen already an accomplished swordsman takes no chances. In a flurry of blows he cuts down all three men, finishing them as each pleaded for mercy on the training room floor.
When asked by his mother why he had killed them Dao-Shen tells her that he felt his life was in danger so he took actions to stop this. The Chancellor supports her son’s decision and enacts revenge on the Capellan people, two days later the Centrella Black Guards begin executing the families of each of the three men going as far as to arresting and questioning their extended families about links to Free Capella. Almost none of those arrested are released; most are executed by the Black Guards. On Sian and across the Capellan nation a whisper begins to spread as many see Naomi’s reign as a mirror to Romano Liao’s reign of terror. Many curse Sun-Tzu Liao’s name for brining this terror to there nation however many also wish for a leader as stable as Sun-Tzu had been although very rarely is his name mentioned in public as everyone knows the Chancellor has ears everywhere.
Throne Room
Steiner Royal Court, Tharkad City
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
13th July 3076
Standing from his throne Archon Peter Steiner-Davion moved swiftly to a nearby podium assembled in front of the Lyran and Inner Sphere press agencies. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I come to you today with some news concerning the future of the Lyran people and our nation’s place within the Inner Sphere.†He paused and smiled “Tonight I am here to announce that the Lyran Alliance is no more. The Alliance served our people well in a time of great strain following my sister Katherine’s attempt to safeguard our nation from the troubles of the Federated Commonwealth. However it is clear to me and clear to many others out there that those tenious strains are no longer required, and that it is time our nation reclaimed its true identity.†He said he saw the shock on people’s faces.
“My fellow Lyrans do not fear, with the end of the Alliance we should rejoice not shed tears. The Alliance brought the our people together when they needed to be as one, allied to face the menace of the Clans, it held us together as we faced the possibility of Civil War with our brothers and sisters in the Federated Suns and it created bonds in each of us that cannot easily be broken.†He said he believed in the Lyran people more than a name but it was true Katherine’s work to bring the Lyran Alliance into being had saved them from the abiss they faced. Together they had held the line against the Clans, seen a new Star League born and reforged the Lyran state from the shattered embers of the Federated Commonwealth.
“I believe that the time for the Alliance has ended, the Clans have been held in place even now as the Truce of Tukayyid has passed we continue to hold the line against their advance. Our people are prosperous once more with those trade partners return, those who saw our nation’s fall during the Clan Invasion seeing we are ready for the future. It is time for something new something that shows the Lyran people have come through the storm and are ready to face the sun with a smile.†He said himself smiling as he spoke, Isis had said it was the best part of this speech, something to show the people of their nation that Peter had true belief in everyone of them. And it spoke the truth, daily traders from across the Inner Sphere and even the Clans flocked into the Lyran realm as it became a secure hub for commerce within the Inner Sphere as it once had been.
“People of Donegal, Alarion, Coventry and Skye†he said mentioning the four Province Capitals still under Lyran Rule, the fifth Tamar was now under Clan Wolf control serving as that Clan’s capital long lost despite continued crys for its liberation. “Today when you awake and look at the new day look up into the sky.†He said glancing up over the camera that he’d been gazing at “And see not only a new day but see a banner that has not seen the light in nearly forty years. Today Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, you live under the Lyran Commonwealth’s banner, a reborn nation ready to face a new day and ready to face the challenges of its future, my future, our future.†He said he could see the stunned looks amongst the crowd many had never dreamed of a return to the Commonwealth days many had seen the Federated Commonwealth as a killer of their nation’s identity and the Alliance was its poor substitute, but not today.
Many would likely see today as a footnote in history, as a day one name was exchanged for another, no great wars were declared, no great breakthroughs discovered, no new Heros born. But to these people and people across the Lyran nation it was a day to take pride in what they had achomplished, in their joint futures, and to others it showed them that their Archon saw the true future of their people which filled them with hope.
Flight Test Range, Nock Engineering Inc
New Scotland, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
19th July 3076
There had never been a major representative from the AFFS in the Nock Engineering Inc owned testing range; the only major contract the company had received had been from the live-fire display from two MiG-29 Fighters that saved Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion and her children in 3063. Today however Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner had travelled from Defiance and the Martial Olympiad competition to witness the test of Nock Engineering’s newest craft. Head of Research and Development Dr Xavier Cole stood nervously as the craft was wheeled out of the hanger onto the tarmac. “So Doctor I assume that is the XF-301?â€
“Yes Marshal that is the fighter. Sixty-five tons, it is a twin engine craft powered by an Omni 360 Extra-light Fusion Engine. It carries a total of six primary weapons, paired autocannons, missile launchers and pulse laser weaponry.†Xavier explained on the runway the XF-301 lit its engines and began to scream down the runway into the air.
“Control, I have two lit and green weapons show ready, permission to continue.†The pilot reported.
“One, you have full permission given, weapons are free, targets at 300.01â€
“Control, understood, I am experiancing slight vibrations in port aileron.â€
“We have readings from you One†Control responded “our systems show all clear it will settle as you begin bank.†Xavier listened he thought the engineers had settled that vibration.
“Roger Control, coming around to 300.01, weapons safeties are off, vibrations at minimal levels.†The pilot said as the craft turned slowly, moments later the fighter began to trail smoke “Control, I am declaring an emergency systems fail….†The pilot’s panicked voice came as the heavy fighter began to spin; the rear of the craft passing the wrong direction in less than a second as the craft was thrown into a flat spin.
“ONE EJECT!!!†Control ordered the pilot “One, flame out both engines, EJECT, EJECT, EJECT!!†The controller said as the XF-301 continued its shallow spin dropping altitude rapidly as it plunged into an outcropping of trees, there was a ground shaking explosion as the craft hit the ground, emergency vehicles began screaming towards the crash-site but anyone could see there was no walking from that crash.
“Perhaps your aircraft needs more work.†Reinhart Steiner said before leaving without another word, he’d seen plenty already Xavier couldn’t blame him, the fighter program would be stalled for a while with this crash they had one more prototype however it had showed similar problems. The Vanguard would have a while to wait before it launched again they could ill afford to lose another pilot or aircraft nor could they cancel this program commitments had been made, they had to deliver.
 
Clan WarShip Cache
Strana Mechty System, Clan Space
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
22nd July 3076
Following Clan Star Adder’s covert removal of three Bug-Eye Surveillance craft Clan Wolf takes a different approach boldly announcing they had removed three vessels from the cache in the Strana Mechty system to coordinate manoeuvres against the Inner Sphere more effectively. They announce that they have renamed the vessels Fox, Wolf and Hound and that the Star Adders are also fielding such craft. They other Clans begin to look at their own choice not to field. Though having the Bug-Eyes back in their fleets breaks the rules of engagement of Nicholas Kerensky, the Founder of the Clans, having these craft would give them a great advantage in battles against the Inner Sphere and in the changing fortunes of the Clan Homeworlds.
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Clan Space, Federated Suns, Periphery
Various Locations, Nova Cat Operations
8th August 3076
On Tortuga Prime in the Nova Cat’s Den, Barcella in the Kerensky Cluster and on New Avalon in the Federated Suns Clan Nova Cat units put on a demonstration that would wow and shock the human sphere. In the Golden Century of the Clans several hundred years before the Nova Cats had perfected the Extended-Range Laser originally pioneered by the Star League with the ER Large Laser. These weapons capable of greater range and hitting power than their Star League predecessors would become a new staple weapon of choice for the Clans and would dominate the laser type weapon category for centuries. Even the massively effective Pulse lasers of the Clans could not match their range and weighed more. Now with the Nova Cats brought forward a new weapon that could rival the Extended Range weapons.
Based around the same principle of the Clan Pulse Laser these new weapons were bulkier and heavier than their standard cousins but they were more accurate and could now almost match their range capabilities. Although unable to provide the instant kill of a Clan-made Extended Range Particle Cannon the new Extended Range Pulse laser weapons provided a new range of back-up weapons for Clan designs. While the Inner Sphere had improved their pulse weapons with the X-Pulse range bringing them closer to the Clans the new ER Pulse range restored the Clan’s edge in pulse laser weaponary.
Killing Blow (Vincent Mk.42-class Corvette)
Nadir Recharge Point, Rigil Kentares
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
10th August 3076
All was quiet aboard the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Corvette Killing Blow as it charged its K-F Drive for its last jump from the Lyran Commonwealth before it entered the Federated Suns. Deep inside the ship in a specially constructed life-support chamber Melinda-Anne Steiner was under the care of several Clan Wolf and Lyran Doctors and Scientists who were now the only thing preserving her life. There one hope was to keep her alive long enough so they could reach the Federated Suns medical facilities. From an adjacent compartment Duchess Isis Steiner watched the scientists as they looked after her daughter.
Alongside the Killing Blow were the WarShips LCS Berlin, an Artemis Diplomatic Vessel assigned as Isis’ personal WarShip for this trip although she hadn’t stepped foot aboard the vessel instead remaining with Melinda-Anne, and the LCS Adam Steiner, a Fox-class Corvette there to add muscle to the task force attached to its DropShip collars were five assault vessels capable of defending against anything up to a major WarShip threat.
On the bridge of the Killing Blow everything suddenly became very busy as the sensors detected several jump signatures arriving in system soon. The LCS Adam Steiner and Berlin detecting the same signatures immediately moved ahead of the Killing Blow and all three WarShips launched their DropShips and fighters. It was a precaution only, these signatures could have been a trade convoy, however it soon proved to be a just one. Into the system entered the Cornith Battle-group centred on the massive Thera-class Carrier supported by the Leodegrance and the Venturer, together the three vessels out gunned the three small vessels ten times over, if not more, and that did not include their attached fighters and DropShips which immediately deployed.
All around them fighters and DropShips charged towards the Adam Steiner, its assault DropShip Squadron and the Berlin firing weapons as they closed. The Adam Steiner and Berlin knew their job was to take hits and allow the Killing Blow to fast charge its K-F Drive and escape. In an effort to bring as much attention to them as possible the Adam Steiner accelerated closer to the Free Worlds League vessels as they moved the Corvette was struck by a FWL aerospace fighter. If it was deliberate or an accident it was unknown but a large gash was opened up in the Fox’s heavy armour, the damage caused by this single action gave the Berlin’s crew an idea. “Berlin Actual to Adam Steiner, receive?â€
“Go ahead†the commander of the Adam Steiner said wiping blood from his lip, the fighter impact had been minor but the impact had been felt through the ship.
“We have a plan, turn to mark three and give us a barrage of fire centred on that formation of DropShips.†The Berlin’s commander said it was her last real command; she had accepted the responsibility of defending Duchess Steiner and would do anything necessary to ensure that happened.
“Confirm? We have three WarShips to worry about and you want DropShips cleared?â€
“Affirmative on target solution, we’ve begun a ballistic course for their position; I don’t want them there when we arrive.â€
“Reason your ship isn’t designed for a slugging match?â€
“This ship is made to go fast, hard to target, but easy to aim like a spear or arrow.†Was all the Berlin’s commander said before closing the link, sure enough the Berlin was accelerating; it could reach 5.5G acceleration.
“Where the hell?†the Adam Steiner’s commander wondered what she had meant, then it dawned on him “extrapolate their course!†he ordered the computer showed the ship was heading straight for the Corinth. The Artemis-class vessel didn’t have the firepower to take down the Thera but used like an arrow to a target, it was obvious what they were doing. “Dammit! All guns retarget, I want those DropShips gone five minutes ago!†He shouted watching the Berlin charge forwards guns blazing as it went, the Naval Lasers were set to automatic anti-aircraft fire mode cutting down DropShips and fighters like massive anti-fighter guns. The ship was taking fire from almost every corner of the FWL formation, with armour plate being crushed under the increasing fire, one lucky hit and this charge would be fore nothing.
As the Adam Steiner’s Naval Autocannons opened fire taking out the FWL DropShips the vessel’s commander whispered “god-speed Berlin†The Artemis sped through the gap at nearly maximum speed its course and intention must have been completely clear to the FWL WarShips as the massive Thera’s guns and its escorts weapons all began to retarget the fast moving one hundred thousand ton ship. With so many weapons firing into the same area some of them had to hit the Berlin ripping her hull open in many places the ship’s entire nose torn open to space, there was a radiation flare as one of her reactors took a direct hit but it was too late, the velocity already built up had to be spent somewhere. Even as the reactor went critical the Berlin slammed into the Cornith’s port side disappearing in a massive fireball that tore along the Thera’s hull.
For a start it appeared the Corinth’s had been destroyed instantly as the fire burned across the vessel however the fire exposed to vacuum quickly disappeared showing the carrier still intact. For a moment it appeared the Berlin’s sacrifice had been in vain, even though the damage was extensive the Cornith appeared intact and operational, however moments passed and the damage showed. The massive ship began to shake as the K-F Drive deep within the hull began to overload damaged beyond repair by the impact the Core’s containment was beginning to fail. As escape pods began to fire from the massive vessel the Lyran force acted “Continue firing all guns†the Adam Steiner’s commander ordered as the Free Worlds League fighters and DropShips froze in space shocked by what they had witnessed.
“Sir, further Jump Signatures three craft†the sensor operator reported as the Adam Steiner was hit by a pair of Light Naval Gauss Rifles in the port thrusters assembly, the entire section vented to space killing three crewmen and destroying the port engines.
“Who’s coming in?†the commander asked praying it was not more League ships, they had little chance at the moment, more enemies would mean a death kneel for the Duchess still safe aboard the Wolf WarShip.
“It’s the Kevin Tamar!†The sensor operator shouted almost leaving his chair as the Adam Steiner’s sister ship. The vessel immediately detached its JumpSail and launched five more DropShips who all turned to engage the remaining FWL force, alongside them were a pair of massive Monolith-class JumpShips. Between them the two JumpShips were launching fourteen more DropShips who were in turn moving to engage the FWL units. From the Adam Steiner the commander could see the majority of the DropShips were the new Aurora-class vessel built on Skye while a few others were of the Claymore class. Looking at the Claymores he realized that the forward vessels were of a brand new variant of the class known as the Interceptor. Mounting experimental technology it was one of the most potent craft on the field.
“Get them on the horn!†He ordered moments later the commander of the Kevin Tamar appeared “Jim, how the hell did you get here so quick?â€
“Long story, thank Duke Kelswa, we thought you could do with an escort through Skye space seems he was right. What happened to the Corinth?â€
“Another long story, the Berlin did what was needed for their Duchess.†He said as the Adam Steiner was hit by another salvo of Naval Gauss rifle, this time supported by Naval Lasers, the main cargo bay began to depressurize while the Lithium Fusion Battery was completely destroyed. “Listen, we haven’t got long in this fight left, Jim make sure the Killing Blow escapes she’s your prize.â€
“Understood, we can direct DropShips to your location?â€
“Negative, we’ve lost most of our engines and are venting air from more than one place, that Venturer has our range, Protect the Killing Blow.†The commander of the Adam Steiner said as to Heavy Naval PPCs from the Free Worlds League WarShip cut through the starboard armour burning straight through the Corvette, lights flickered off moments before the WarShip exploded scattering the Fox-class vessel over several thousand kilometres.
“Order all DropShips to converge on the remaining WarShips get there attention but stay alive.†He said it was a tough proposition one hit from a WarShip’s guns would likely end any of the DropShips. “Our guns target every single one of their remaining DropShips and bring them down, starting with that one.†The Kevin Tamar’s commander said pointing at a Leopard-CV which was recovering an Aerospace Fighter “a bottle of Glengarry Scotch if the gunners can put a round through the launch bay.†He said adding an extra incentive, word must have been passed quickly as all three Naval Autocannons converged on the DropShip obliterating it a single salvo, overkill but effective. “Did they hit the bay?†Jim asked quietly
“Unknown sir, too much firepower on one target, I think the bay was destroyed however.†The sensor operator said smiling the commander had known that would be the result. “We have an energy spike from the Eagle, she’s jumping, DropShips are vectoring away.â€
“They are abandoning their DropShips and fighters, cowardly bastards.†One of the crew said moments later the ship had disappeared then seconds later the Venturer also charged its engines and jumped - between them they had left four DropShips and nearly two hundred operational fighters, mostly from the destroyed carrier, as well as a dozen escape pods also from the Corinth.
“Contact the DropShip commanders and any squadron commanders that are left offer them the chance to surrender. Have all our DropShips and fighters lock targets but only to engage if they are so engaged.†The commander ordered within thirty minutes the Free Worlds League troops had agreed to surrender to the Lyran troops, without any WarShips or JumpShips to transport them they had little choice in the matter.
Following a brief thank you from Duchess Isis Steiner to the Kevin Tamar’s commander the Killing Blow soon left the system continuing their journey to the Federated Suns in the lightly damaged Wolf Corvette. The Berlin and Adam Steiner had ensured the safety of the Steiner’s and their crews actions would not be forgotten. In the Free Worlds League heads rolled in the admiralty and on board both the surviving WarShips the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth had only two Theras and now that number had been halved in one unsuccessful operation. Further up the chain of command in the Isle of Skye and the Lyran Commonwealth a reprisal strike is planned against the Marik-Steward Commonwealth and an order for one hundred Aurora-class DropShips, in various configurations, is placed by the LCAF.
On Terra the worthiness of the Artemis-class Diplomatic Vessel was re-examined by the Star League now that three of ComStar's peace-promoting vessels had been used in combat and destroyed. More of concern for the Star League was that all three vessels had been used by their crews as massive arrows which had been rammed into enemy ships and caused untold amounts of casualties. For a peaceful vessel this was unacceptable, it is decided by command that following the completion of the current two vessels under construction there will be no more Artemis vessels built.
Throne Room, Imperial Palace
Imperial City, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
30th August 3076
In the Inner Sphere if ones leader called it did not bode well for you to turn away, in this case Director of the Internal Security Force Shakir Jerrar had been called by Warlord Minoru Kurita. This was because of faulty intelligence that had lead to the Musashi Flotilla’s engagement against the Snow Raven’s Brim Naval Star which led to the loss of two WarShips, several DropShips and Aerospace Fighters. Although it had been Warlord Minamoto who had ordered the Musashi Flotilla into danger it had been Shakir’s intelligence that lead it to doom, being summoned to Luthien meant only one thing for Shakir, almost as soon as he had entered the Imperial Palace his life was over. Within moments of his being presented to Minoru he was asked to commit seppeku, ritual suicide, immediately to make amends for his failure in duty to the Draconis Combine, the Director did not disappoint Draconis Combine Law and was dead by the end of the day.
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Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Training Group
Morges, Arc-Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
31st August 3076
From its base on Arc-Royal Clan Wolf (in-Exile) could look after their Touman very well, the Lyrans seemed happy to allow them to patrol the Clan border at will. Unfortunately because the Kell Hound Mercenaries and several other units were constantly working on Arc-Royal they had little access to areas out with their control and so they lacked varied training environments. Instead they’d travel to other nearby worlds and use those environments.
Seasoned warriors under the command of Star Captain Henrique Carns led a Trinary of Warriors on an extended training mission to Morges. In his seventy-five ton Timber Wolf, lead the warriors through mountainous terrain, it was a test of piloting skill not of combat, two of the warriors had fallen in the early stages however now they were making good time. On sensors Henrique detected something intermittent, probably just a rock formation but worth checking out “Strike Lead to Recon One, I am detecting something at three hundred metres south, take your people and check it out. We will continue on one hundred metres and meet at the tree cropping.†With that the five Mechs of the Reconnaissance Lance moved out to the left of the Trinary’s position, Henrique turned his attention back to the path ahead. Reaching the tree line the unit waited for the Recon Star, after several minutes a flight of long range missiles soared over the ridge narrowly missing Star Commander Libby’s retreating thirty ton Adder OmniMech. The OmniMech was more skeleton than war machine “Strike Lead to Recon One, report unit status and findings?â€
“We were ambushed†she said her voice laboured, the Adder registered white on thermal scans she’d obviously been firing constantly. “Unknown designs, unbeatable warriors†she said struggling to even slow her Mech “they were brutal.â€
“Strike and Assault Stars weapons free†Henrique said “we will find these warriors that have caused the Wolves pain, Recon One can you continue?â€
“Aff†she said at the same time the twelve almost perfect enemy Mechs appeared on the ridgeline all were in dark colours except one which was painted scarlet and white. Scanning the designs Henrique recognised six of the Mechs as classic Star League-era Mechs but the other six were completely unknown.
“This is Star Captain Henrique Carns you have engaged Clan Wolf…†Henrique began before the large red painted Mech fired a paired PPC blast one struck Henrique’s cockpit and the Clan Wolf warrior burned to death in a second sitting at the controls of his Timber Wolf. The twelve enemy Mechs then almost as one charged forward immediately getting in an around the Clan warriors, the already damaged Adder fell quickly as did the warriors of Henrique’s Strike Star. Alone the five Assault Mechs hindered by the heavy terrain could not match the massed firepower from the twelve enemy Mechs and each quickly fell, the twelve Mechs then went Mech to Mech systematically vaporizing the cockpits, and by extension the Wolf pilots, one by one. Any warrior who tried to escape was gunned down by the MechWarriors before they retreated into the mountains. A search party found the remains of the Trinary two days later however there was no sign of their attackers or any real evidence because of the damage to the Mechs.
Ioto Enterprises Shipyards
Alarion, Port Sydney Shipyards
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd September 3076
The Lyran Commonwealth make a lot of noise following the launch of the LCS Snow Fire, their newest Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser, named for a famed Lyran Commonwealth assassin from centuries before. The Lyrans announce the WarShip will be sent on a patrol of the Free Worlds League Remnant borders and that they believe the Gabriel Habitat in the Odessa system once had a shipyard facility used by the original Star League and later the Word of Blake before being dismantled in 3070 so the Word could concentrate on Terra defences, Star League Intelligence Corps Operatives at the meeting are happy their small deception goes unnoticed by the Lyrans and their press corps. The Lyrans refuse to comment on Gabriel's future.
Command Deck, Principle (Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser)
Nadir Point, Tortuga Prime
Nova Cats Den, Periphery
12th September 3076
All was quiet in the Tortuga Prime system as it was across the Nova Cat’s Den, the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Principle, defending the system was easy. The WarShip went through endless trials on-board the ship, and in the space around preparing the ultimate defence however the ships crew was becoming restless, there was only so many trials a crew could do against each other before they imploded.
Outbound from the planet was a DropShip sized vessel travelling at approximately two gravities of acceleration. “Battle alert†the commander ordered more as a drill than anything else a single DropShip coming from the planet could only be a Nova Cat vessel “what is due today?â€
“Nothing, Commander†one crewman reported “cycling aerospace fighters to intercept, Quiaff?â€
“Aff†the commander said agreeing “warm up forward autocannon grid, this ship must have been stolen by some natives, they are not leaving the system intact.†With that order the Principle’s main forward weapons four class-25 Naval Autocannons began to power, their crews loading live ordinance the sensor grid painting the target with passive sensors. One flick of a switch and the Principle would force full combat Electronic Warfare on the DropShip probably overloading its sensors making it blind for several moments and giving the Principle all the information it would need. “Sensors, give me a look of them†he said the Principle targeted the ‘DropShip’ with sensors only to discover the vessel wasn’t any normal DropShip, it carried a K-F Drive. “That’s impossible unless its…†Then he realized what it was “Autocannons on target and fire.†The commander said, it was a credit to the crew that there was no hesitation all four weapons fired milliseconds later, the first slug slammed into the front of the craft seconds later opening it to space, the second slammed into the side of the craft cracking the craft’s back, the third missed the vessel, while the last smashed dead on the nose of the craft this time gutting the command deck. The vessel was dead in space “have the CAP fly over the ship find any signs of life, Deploy DropShips I want the remains of that craft recovered and contact Tortuga Prime, inform them to contact the Khan.â€
“What should I tell them?â€
“We detected a Bug-Eye Surveillance Craft and destroyed it in the Tortuga system.†The commander said, only one Clan had an active Bug-Eye the Scarlet Eye, fielded by Clan Ice Hellion, and since that Clan’s demise the vessel had not moved from its position in Clan Space. A few days later Khan Canin Rosse orders the Second Watch Cluster from Tortuga to investigate the Clan-based Bug-Eye vessels.
First McCarron’s Command Lance
Grand Base, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
18th September 3076
With their Mechs prepped the First McCarron’s Regiment augmented by several warriors from the Second and Fourth McCarron’s many of them command lances or platoons from those regiments, warriors loyal to the McCarron name and the Big Mac before any loyalties to the Capellan Chancellor or the Capellan Confederation. “McCarron One to Bodez, status?†Elizabeth McCarron said, she’d abandoned her Capellan rank and position, every member of this force would be loyal to themselves and the Big Mac.
“We’re all set, it’s a straight run to the DropShips. We expect the Defence force to try and stop us but we shouldn’t find real opposition there. The real trouble will come from the Second and Fourth Regiments, once they mobilize we will have three regiments against us, if they are able to call in a WarShip we’re dead.â€
“Roger that, all we can hope is my message reached McCarron Prime†she said referring to her cousin in the Federated Suns, if the Capellans turned WarShips against them there was a hope that the Federated Suns would take advantage to hurt the Capellans and save them with their own WarShip fleet, however there was no-way to ensure this would happen. “McCarron One to Big Mac, last chance anyone who doesn’t want to come power down and return to the bunker you won’t be harmed. The rest of you, you know what’s at stake we will have to fight against our own people here but they have sided with the Centrella Family which is slowly destroying the nation we helped build. The Capellan Confederation is no more Capellan than it is Canopian now and we are becoming the minority. Our future does not lie with a succession state it leaves us likely as a mercenary, where this regiment, where this brigade was created, our future will be in our own hands. Big Mac March!†She ordered the gates opened and the entire reinforced double regiment began a March from the base. Roughly two kilometres away a patrol from the Second Capellan Defence Force began to approach led by a Shadow Hawk, a Phoenix Hawk, a Wasp and an Archer all classic designs that had been refitted with modern technology.
“Stalker One to First McCarrons please state your intentionsâ€
“McCarron One to Stalker One, we’re just out for a stroll.†Elizabeth said closing the gap trying to buy time and range.
“McCarron One, you are not cleared to leave the base. Reverse course, return to your defence station.â€
“Stalker One, I apologise†Elizabeth said striking with her Emperor’s assault autocannon and her particle projection cannon cutting down the lead Shadow Hawk in a blaze of fire.
“McCarron One, we have Stealth units appearing on our flanks, Capellan markings.â€
“McCarron One, we have a platoon of Saladin’s on our right flank, they appeared from no-where! Some type of vehicle stealth.†Another voice said the Capellan Defence Force was using some new toys to keep them from escaping.
“McCarron One to all commands, straight march for the Defence Force Base Nav Point Alpha, we’re going straight through.â€
“That’s going to cost us†Bodez warned
“Having them at out backs will kill us, pay the cost.†Elizabeth ordered making the call, in the distance she could see four DropShips dropping through the atmosphere.
“McCarron One, Risner One†Steven Risner her senior special forces operative said over the comm. “The Angels never got off the ground the Defence Force have locked down the Spaceport including our DropShips. We’ve scrambled comms to the Second and Fourth but they will see this fighting.â€
“Understood, we’ll face it when we get there, Big Mac keep fighting.†She said with her DropShips and their crews locked down and no fighters to speak of the Big Mac would soon be over-run, once the Second and Fourth Regiments joined the fight the Big Mac would be over, she wouldn’t be fazed and continued to push forward.
“Deep Space One to Big Mac, prepare for incoming ordinance.†Came a new voice on the comm. system, there was no more communications or as several massive missiles flew over Elizabeth’s Mech smashing into the Capellan Defence Force’s base resulting in massive explosions including one that destroyed the base’s main gate area. Moments later two Dagger OmniFighters soared past the Big Mac waggling their wings in salute before returning to the upper atmosphere.
“Deep Space One identify†Elizabeth ordered as a second wave of missiles followed by a large amount of aerospace fighters followed again destroying large sections of the base.
“McCarron Actual to McCarron One, Authenticate Papa-Foxtrot-Sierra-One.†Came a new female voice over the comm. instantly Elizabeth recognized it despite the years they’d spent apart.
“Codeword: Bracken†Elizabeth replied smiling broadly Faith Steiner was among the new arrivals, “it’s good to hear from you.†She said looking to the sky she saw the fighters were Federated Suns craft.
“Understood, we’re working on the spaceport opening the way Charlie Formation will hold back the Second and Fourth. You have a clear run.†The Big Mac continued on with Davion fighters and Cruise Missile Artillery support providing them with a massive firepower advantage over the Capellan Defence Force. The Big Mac power through the Capellan Defence Force base and towards the Spaceport, there they could see a large force of Federated Suns forces led by a Men Shen OmniMech standing waiting for them the fighting had long died down at the spaceport. “Good to see you McCarron One.†The Men Shen pilot said, despite them being family Elizabeth could see the Davion Mechs supporting her cousin were all ready for the Big Mac to make a wrong move, taking down Faith Steiner would make any Capellans career, a single false move and the Davion troops would spring into action gunning down what was left of the Big Mac.
“McCarron Actual, good seeing you also, your DropShips and fighters are ready for lift, we have the John Gordon, Galax, Kathil and New Syrtis in the system providing support keeping the Capellan aerospace and DropShips at bay.†Faith said naming a Congress-class Frigate, two Hound-class Corvettes and a Fox-class Corvette that had all been sent on this mission if the Capellans decided to get involved they would be in serious trouble and heavily outgunned. “Ready to leave this realm?â€
“We are, the Big Mac returns to its mercenary life.†Elizabeth said smiling, her regiment, her people were free. With such a heavy naval presence in the system the Capellan Confederation refuses to engage the Federated Suns flotilla or further resist the retreat of the First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry. Their wrath instead falls on the remaining McCarron’s Regiments on Grand Base, following a heavy vetting session from the Maskirovka the troops are for the most part sent to distant, periphery, postings although some are assigned to reinforce the decimated Second Capellan Defence Force on Grand Base, both Armoured Cavalry units were permanently stricken from Capellan rolls also a bounty is placed on the heads of Elizabeth McCarron and Faith Steiner for their actions in removing the First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry from the Capellan Confederation.
Northern Hemisphere
Gillingham, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
23rd September 3076
When Gillingham had been part of the Federated Suns Outback there had been a chance for the people to resist the Pirates of Tortuga and of the Pirate Cluster since their break away and the formation of the Filtvelt Coalition they had become easy pickings for pirates. With the fall of the Tortuga Dominions, and their subsequent occupation, to Clan Nova Cat forces the Death’s Consorts led by Lady Death Trevaline were slowly finding their areas of operation cut, several worlds had just dropped off the grid since the arrival of the Clans in the Periphery.
Although the Taurian Concordat and the Federated Suns Outback were still easy to raid the Filtvelt Coalition was the smallest and until recently the least organized. With her spies implanted on all the worlds the Lady Death knew almost everything about the small nation, making it an even easier target, recently they had built a primitive BattleMech factory and a small arms weapons factory something that Paula Trevaline hadn’t expected they capable of doing but it was welcome, she’d be able to steal such weapons fore her own Death’s Consorts.
With one Battalion landing to the north of the capital city, which was really only a big town, and the second battalion landing to the south the Death’s Consorts were ready. The plan, as always, was simple each Battalion walks into the town firing at anything that moves, disabling any Mechs or vehicles that could be useful, salvage units arrive recover ‘used’ goods and the Death’s Consorts go home with their bounty. Unfortunately plans rarely survived engagement with the enemy.
“Second Battalion repeat your message…†Paula said from her Orion’s cockpit, it was an old Mech but with some of the recent bounties of the Death’s Consorts it was in top shape. All that came over the frequency was static, the Consorts were being jammed. “All Consorts fall back by numbers, we are not being pulled in so easy. Scythe First Lance, fly over Second Battalion’s position, report status.†She said contacting her two orbiting aerospace fighters who were on a different communications frequency.
“Understood Lead, banking in†The pilot said as the paired Sparrowhawk fighters dived from the upper atmosphere, normally they would only have been employed if the DropShips were attacked but this was an unusual raid. Moments later the pilot came back with his analysis. “Scythe to Lead, Second Battalion has been engaged by a small force of Mechs.â€
“Do you recognise them?†Paula asked the defenders of Gillingham had only just received a mixed lance of BattleAxe and Hammerhands BattleMechs, there was no-way they were online yet.
“Roger, one of the Mechs is a Loki he is now engaging…†the line went dead, the Loki was the Inner Sphere name for the Clan’s Hellbringer a mediocre heavy OmniMech for the Clans, if it was a Loki then somehow the defenders had gained themselves some Clan technology which wasn’t a good sign.
“Mauler to Lead, I have a Clan Shadow Cat on sensors approaching at high speed.†Came one of her own lance mates, another Clan design something was very wrong. A supersonic slug shot across the battlefield slamming into Paula’s Orion’s right arm the Mech shuddered under the hit.
“All forces this is Lead, retreat to DropShips, Filtvelt defenders are unknown composition. Something is very wrong here, fall back.†She ordered as another gauss slug slammed into her right leg this time turning she could see the short Mech charging in weapons blazing “see how you like this†she said launching a salvo of Long Range Missiles at the Shadow Cat they went very wide of the target, the Shadow Cat returned fire with yet another gauss slug this time adding a pair of medium lasers to the mix, the clan tech weapons were beginning to eat away at Paula’s Heavy Mech. Twisting her Mech’s torso she let off a salvo of laser fire at the Shadow Cat, the medium clan OmniMech accelerated suddenly accelerating over one hundred kilometres per hour. Tracking the Mech Paula fired her lasers again trying to whittle down the Mech or make the pilot make a mistake, as her lasers stabbed out Paula watched the Shadow Cat gain a momentary burst of speed before its legs froze.
Without legs able to carry and balance the OmniMech the torso continued on frozen legs and keeled over face first into the ground toppling end over end before coming to a halt against a small wall, the Mech didn’t get back up and the pilot hadn’t ejected. Realizing that was her chance Paula ordered the Consorts into action “Irregulars move on that Mech, if you can capture the BattleMech its yours!†She screamed into the communications system “I want the pilot alive!†She added it could prove to be vital to their bands survival.
“Lead, we have incoming BattleMech forces, four in totalâ€
“The rest of their lance†she said, she knew the clans used ‘star’ instead of lance but she refused to dignify them with something more “First Battalion hold until Irregulars have the Shadow Cat pilot, none of those Mechs get through.†She said scanning the four incoming Mechs they were lights and mediums should be easy pickings for her troops.
“Irregular Four to Lead†one of her squad commanders said from the ground “we have the pilot she’s unconscious but alive, this Mech won’t move again but we have removed two of the medium lasers and are working on the Gauss Rifle.†They continued, the Shadow Cat would have made a nice addition to their force but the Lasers and a prisoner would do fine.
“You have one minute, if you can’t remove it in that time begin your retreat nowâ€
“We’re retreating†the squad commander said not risking their lives for a weapon, she couldn’t blame them none of them could pilot a Gauss Rifle, but perhaps they could a Shadow Cat.
“Good work, all forces fall back. Continue to attempt communications with Scythe Flight and with the Second Battalion.†She ordered moving her Mech further away, she had her prisoner that was the main thing, her second Clan prisoner the first being a former-Smoke Jaguar the Consorts had gotten their prize despite failing in their mission.
The Death’s Consorts were able to retreat from the planet with minimal further losses their captured warrior fully intact from the world they were able to retreat from the planet to their waiting JumpShips, though the JumpShip did detect a large vessel jump into the system as they left the pirate craft were unable to identify it. Returning to the Pirate Haven Star Cluster Paula had her prisoner sent to her personal quarters, her first captured warrior Jaxon had been easy to turn into a pirate his clan was destroyed her was alone in universe, this young woman had been captured from a powerful clan who was taken by surprise by the power of the pirate raid she’d be more difficult to break.
Inside her officer sat a bound and gagged, severely beaten woman she looked around twenty had taken care of herself her naked body devoid of any major scaring “Hello, there I am you new Bondmaster†she said walking over to another seat opposite the bound warrior sitting down. “I defeated you in combat you are my prisoner, if I see fit I will return you to warrior status under my command.†She said removing the gag, the woman remained silent “I apologise for what has been done to you, my men have not seen many women in your condition for some time. You will tell me how the Filtvelt Coalition gained Clan weapons technology and I will help you on your way to becoming a MechWarrior once more?â€
“No, bondmaster would ever treat her bondsman in a way you have treated me, I am now and have forever been a Clan Nova Cat MechWarrior and I will not help me.â€
“Fine†Paula said standing up removing a blade from her pocket “die without a fight, stravag†she said in one motion slitting the warrior’s throat blood began to spray all over the place “but know this before you leave this world for the great abyss. You just helped me more than you can ever imagine.†She whispered as the woman lost consciousness from blood loss “Frakking Nova Cats†Paula cursed not at the dying woman but at the entire Clan, they constantly got in the way of her operations, how long would it be until they were banging at her door.
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Tamarind/Luthien
Duchy of Tamarind Abby/Draconis Combine
Inner Sphere States
3rd October 3076
Following the decision to halt production of the Artemis-class Diplomatic Vessels and instead concentrate on building up the Star League Defence Force’s naval armada which would be capable of intervening and stopping future conflicts the former-ComStar engineers finish production of the Artemis-class in style delivering the last two vessels produced two weeks before they were due. The first vessel the Moscow arrives in the Tamarind system, capital of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby in the former Free Worlds League, the already significant Tamarind-Abby fleet welcomes a new addition, although they don’t exactly know what to do with such a small vessel one proposal is to strip it and create a fast scout vessel.
The second vessel arrives in the Luthien system shortly after the Moscow. The Tokyo is presented to the Draconis Combine, the DCA instantly take a dislike to the ‘gift’, seeing it as a useless class, the vessel is sent to be completely stripped of its weapons and to be mothballed at the Dieron Shipyards.
Fourth Martial Olympiad Competition
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
14th October 3076
The Fourth Martial Olympiad Competition ends on Defiance with the Federated Suns winning for the first time Field Marshal Galen Cox leading a Battalion of warriors from the Sixth Crucis Lancers RCT. This victory proves the Federated Suns troops can perform under the pressure for excellence as well as in real combat. Also at the Martial Olympiad a Lyran warrior is seen to be using the newly deployed Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle on board his Fafnir Assault BattleMech, this is the first real combat testing of the weapons and it proves to be a very deadly weapon indeed.
In space the Snow Raven’s Lord Death, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser defends its title as the victor of the naval event seeing off all challengers finally defeating a vessel from the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby to win the competition. Although not competing at games the Dragon’s Failing, Clan Nova Cat’s newly deployed Patriot-class Heavy Missile Cruiser is seen for the first time in public the vessel impresses many who see it.
At the competition the Nova Cats and Sea Fox Clan also agree a trade deal in which the Nova Cats receive much needed resources and the Sea Fox Clan receive a stream of newly built Extended-Range Pulse laser weapons, the Sea Foxes plan to distribute the weapons amongst the other Clans.
Isolation Wing, Medical Wing
New Avalon Institute of Science, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th October 3076
After a long and eventful journey from Tharkad the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) WarShip Killing Blow had been escorted into the New Avalon star system by two Federated Suns WarShips. From there Melinda-Anne Steiner escorted by her mother Isis Steiner was given priority clearance to land at the NAIS spaceport on the surface and the very ill young child had been rushed to an emergency isolation chamber.
Looking through thick glass Duchess Isis Steiner was dressed simply in a royal blue jumpsuit with House Steiner’s hammer emblem on its shoulder. Her long brown hair was tied up in a pony-tail; she looked nothing like a head of state for one of the Succession States as Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion moved gracefully down the steps dressed in a knee length business skirt. Danai had tracked the Steiner party from the Jumppoint and made a point at seeing Isis as soon as possible, for both of them it was strange neither had been born within their home nations but both were now related through mariage. Isis glanced over at her and smiled briefly then looked back at her daughter who was being looked after by NAIS’ best doctors.
“Isis, it is so good to see you, it has been too long†Danai greeted her placing an arm around her shoulder.
“Ten years†she said quietly, they had seen each other in that time at conferences however it had been ten years since they had spent any personal time together, the last time less than a few kilometres from this very spot.
“Strange how things change.†Danai said looking into the chamber thinking of her own son, Burton was only two years old when she and Isis had been together it seemed like a lifetime ago.
“Far more responsibilities now†Isis said her gaze never leaving her daughter. Even without Melinda’s health conditions both Isis and Danai were under pressure daily they were both mothers of children who would one day lead two of the largest nations in the human sphere.
“How is she?†Another voice asked as Victor Steiner-Davion entered the room; he looked every piece the First Prince of the Federated Suns wearing an AFFS Field Marshal’s duty uniform without rank insignia. His face edged with the lines of age but his eyes and smile still youthful and ready, Isis remembered first seeing him on Outreach when she had been introduced as a member of the Marik family.
She’d seen the energy and drive from the young man and found him interesting but he only had eyes for the late-Omi Kurita and Isis had another path set for her. She’d wondered sometimes in the quiet times how things could have turned out, she was happy with Peter, but what other paths could she have lived. Would Sun-Tzu Liao have ever been the husband she wished him to be? Or could she have even ended up with the Federated Suns First Prince? Somehow she doubted it but stranger things in life had happened. “The Doctors have started some treatments but they say it will take time for her to respond, they have done further tests, now it is a waiting game.†She replied looking back at her daughter.
“Then we will wait with you.†Danai said reassuringly Isis looked at the two Davions as they stood there looking through the glass and smiled gently, family knew no bounds. Perhaps there was hope for her daughter here under these far distant stars.
Secret Shipyards
Marian Hegemony, Periphery
30th October 3076
Marian Hegemony leader Caesar Julius O’Reilly oversees the launch of the MHS Illyria, the second Galley-class Corvette launched from the Marian Shipyards. Like its sister ship Lothario the vessel is launched in complete secrecy and is undetected from the rest of the Human sphere. The Marians predict that given the current constraints on resources it will be nearly impossible for the Marians to launch any further WarShips however the three active vessels are a potent force.
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November starts and ends with gifts - but also ends with a question - one that I am sure Knightmare would like answered
Seventh Whitting Conference, Star League Conference Centre
Unity City, North-West America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
14th November 3076
“Good Afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the Seventh Whitting Conference. As you can see Unity City is slowly returning to its full glory around us, though the citizens of Terra have not been inclined to move back into the city. We believe that the city will be thriving once more very soon as immigrants arrive from around the Inner Sphere and periphery and I am well informed by Governor Gavin Dow that the Succession Lords are welcome to settle sections of their population in the city to give it a true cosmopolitan feel.†Kai Allard-Liao said opening the Seventh Whitting Conference as the reining First Lord. “First on the agenda today is a presentation by Duke Chandrasekhar Kurita of the Draconis Combine.†The leader of the St Ives Compact said before stepping down from his podium. He was replaced by an elderly man of Japanese decent he wore a plain business suit devoid of any markings that would say he was from the Draconis Combine, let alone being the cousin of the standing leader.
“House Lords, thank you for seeing me. Inside my home realm I am a successful business man, I also have assets in each of your nations as well as the non-present Capellan Confederation leader’s realm. For years I have not interfered with your business and for the most part my people have not been over prejudiced by your realms, I am happy for this to continue and for this to go ahead.†He said pausing removing a small control from his pocket pressing the button once a display screen behind him revealed itself drawing everyone’s attention.
“As well as being a business man, I am also a believer in preserving what we have, developing things to improve our lives and re-discovering secrets of the past. Recently there have been several discoveries of such like the Gabriel Habitat in the Lyran Commonwealth this was just one gem however, recently an Interstellar Expeditions team hired and financed by myself conducted a search through the uninhabited systems around what used to be the old Terran Hegemony. We were searching for something very specific, and we found it, an old Terran Hegemony world bombed out with nuclear and biological devices at the fall of the Star League by House troops after its defenders refused to bow down to the Succession States. Inside their deepest bunker we discovered a company of Royal-grade BattleMechs, the best the Star League could produce that even ComStar at its heights struggled to emulate, and a Hegemony Memory Core.†Chandrasekhar said smiling the looks he was receiving from the Succession Lords and the Star League officials present said it all, they wanted the core. “In this core, we discovered almost blueprints for every Royal BattleMech, vehicle and Aerospace Fighter type, Age of War BattleMechs, Vehicles and Fighters, dozens of utility vehicles and some WarShips thought lost to history.†He said skimming over what they had found, behind him images were displayed on the screen, on the faces in front of him he could see they were thinking exactly what he had thought when his people brought it to him ‘a gold mine’
“Ladies and Gentlemen, if you look at the data pad in front of you in the top slot you will find three memory chips, on these chips I present you with this Memory Core. At this very moment a subordinate of mine is delivering a similar presentation to the Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation, Naomi Centrella. You are all being dealt with equally, this memory core is not designed to bring death and war, it is intent on returning the balance to the Inner Sphere, and perhaps with this knowledge thought lost forever we can move forward. Thank you.†Chandrasekhar said stepping from the podium back into the shadows. Replacing the elderly Kurtia Duke was a completely different image a Caucasian male in his forties with sandy-blonde hair dressed in the uniform of a Federated Suns Field Marshal, the gold starburst on his shoulder standing out a mile.
“Noble Lords, I bring to you another relic of the past that has returned. On the 21st of June this year in the Panpour system of the Federated Suns the FSS Adam Davion drove off a Bug-Eye Surveillance Craft. The origin of this craft is unknown, and the design was only identified as such recently as was the rarity of this design. We know none of your nations have the required skills to build this craft, and to our knowledge this Star League operates none; however the Clans have over one hundred craft in there caches, keep vigilant.†He warned before stepping down from the podium.
Replacing the Davion Field Marshal was a man in Star League Defence Force uniform, with the rank insignia of a General, Caradoc Trevena the Head of the First Lord’s Staff. “Noble Lords, we will disperse for a couple of days before we vote for a new First Lord, please feel free to have a look around the continuing reconstruction of Unity City.†He said stepping down from the podium breaking up the meeting, during the interim period the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby trade with the Draconis Combine for Naval C3 technology while the other nations look around the city and its continuing clean-up.
Seventh Whitting Conference, Star League Conference Centre
Unity City, North-West America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
16th November 3076
“Good morning Noble Lords of the Star League.†Caradoc Trevena said rising to the top of the podium “today we will hear a petition from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth to join the Star League Defence Force as a contributing member state.â€
“I object!†Peter Steiner-Davion, as leader of the Lyran Commonwealth said rising from his chair. “These people launched a full assault into my realm with naval forces - aimed at killing my wife and child. How can we even think about allowing such a nation with low morals into this Star League?†He said looking around the other member leaders.
“They can make a presentation like everyone else†Caradoc Trevena said from the podium stepping down to be replaced by Colonel Leonard Stewart, heir to the Stewart family line and Commander of the Stewart Home Guard.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, it is strange for me to be here one more, it has been over one hundred years since a member of my family has stood here in front of this council. Firstly I would like to refute Archon Steiner-Davion’s claim that my nation has no morals, it is perhaps elements of my nation’s leadership that has that problem, elements that we are weeding out of leadership rolls. The Marik-Stewart Commonwealth is the strongest of the former-Free Worlds League member states, we have enough forces to defend ourselves and assist our neighbours, we also have construction facilities for numerous new Warships’ of various classes. In fact I have been authorized to offer the Star League Defence Force Admiralty an under construction Venturer-class Light Cruiser, the Helm, named for the memory core that began the technological renaissance that allowed the Inner Sphere to survive the Clan invasion and allowed our people to live a far better level of living.†He said without another word he stepped down.
“The Lyran Commonwealth strenuously objects to this course of action. They are without any sense of honour.†Peter Steiner-Davion said without waiting for Caradoc Trevena to retake his place at the podium.
“Your vote is noted, sire†Caradoc said he was from Coventry a former member of the local garrison. “We will continue to vote, a majority carries, the Star League Protectorate breaks deadlocks.â€
“The Draconis Combine has no quarrel with the Free Worlds League nations, we will vote yes.†Warlord Minoru Kurtia said representing the Draconis Combine.
“The Taurian Concordat will also vote no, the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth has no honour or place on this league council.†The Concordat representative said, the periphery nation hadn’t even seen fit to send a senior member of their leadership.
“The Duchy of Tamarind-Abby will vote yes, the Free Worlds League is gone however the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth has saved many worlds from falling by the wayside and being lost to nothing.†Captain Photon Brett-Marik said representing the Duchy, the more Free Worlds League states in the Star League the more power they may have.
“The St Ives Compact will vote yes on the condition that the SLS Helm is routed directly to Terra for inspection for service within the Star League, it is purely to strengthen the Star League Defence Force.†Kai Allard-Liao said looking apologetic towards Peter and Victor Steiner-Davion, he knew them both very well and this would not help.
“The Federated Suns will vote no. To attempt to kill a defenceless woman and her innocent child is despicable, an act of Stefan Amaris or Nicholas Kerensky, people against the Star League and its principles.†Victor Steiner-Davion said looking daggers at Leonard Stewart, the delay for the treatment of Melinda-Anne Steiner could have cost the girl her life.
“It appears that the Star League Protectorate, represented by Governor Gavin Dow of Terra, will have the deciding vote†Caradoc Trevena said from the podium. Gavin Dow wearing a simple business suit with the old opal insignia of ComStar on his lapel.
“Ladies and gentlemen, though the Sirian worlds may not like this choice I have to vote, yes†he said shifting from one foot to another “the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth have not struck at the their former Sirian worlds and they have restrained themselves other than in recent troubles. Another WarShip and another nation that could contribute to the Star League’s Defence Force’s current strength is something this League can ill afford to turn down. And it would unite yet more of the Inner Sphere under its banner further legitimizing it.†He said sitting back down.
“With four votes to three the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth is added to the Star League Council with a probationary period of three years voting rights. We will now have a break until tomorrow when we vote for the new First Lord.†Caradoc Trevena said “the Lyran Commonwealth’s objections have been noted at the highest levels.â€
Seventh Whitting Conference, Star League Conference Centre
Unity City, North-West America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
16th November 3076
Although the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth had received provisional membership they were by no-means guaranteed a place within the Star League Defence Force. They also were not eligible for a voting position on the Star League Council for three years and so it came to the vote for the Star League position of First Lord for the next three years.
In a quiet affair the vote goes very quickly with the announcement from both the Lyran Commonwealth and the Federated Suns refusing to vote in the proceedings in further and very public showing of their protest against the inclusion of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. It falls on the Taurian Concordat to open the votes from which he calls the Draconis Combine leader, Minoru Kurita to take the position. Surprisingly Prime Minister Kai Allard-Liao of the St Ives Compact, Duke Photon Brett-Marik of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby, and Gavin Dow representing the Star League Protectorate all supporting this decision making the Combine Warlord leader a surprise uncontested victor to become the seventh First Lord of the new Star League.
Star League Proving Grounds
6km south Unity City, North American Continent
Terra, Star League Protectorate
25th November 3076
In the Nine days that followed the vote for the new First Lord after all the other Succession Lord state lords had left Terra Duke Colonel Photon Brett-Marik remained on the world asking for a senior member of the SLDF to meet him at the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby’s base-camp - a disused Star League Base with Proving Grounds for live-fire weapons tests.
On the field was a pair of BattleMechs for this test they would show what one simple enhancement could show. “Ladies and Gentlemen, the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and the other Free Worlds League nations have developed these weapons in our own separate corners of the League and though we all can claim to have been the true developers of the weapons we all have them and what is done is done. Now we want to show case these weapons and present them to you.†Photon said raising a micro-phone to his lips “this is Tamarind One, execute operation†he said the first Mech, a fifty-five ton Wraith BattleMech turned and fired a standard large pulse laser puncturing a target “as you can see this Mech has no enhancements over the standard large pulse laser seen throughout the Inner Sphere a far sub-standard version of the weapons seen on Clan BattleMechs and Vehicles.†He said as the second Mech, of a completely unknown design, raised its left arm and fired its weapon at far greater range striking with a slightly reduced level of firepower. “The second BattleMech is fielding a Large Variable Pulse Laser, slightly heavier and bulkier than the standard laser but not overly, like the Combine’s Heavy Particle Projection Cannon†he said “the weapon provides an increased range with only a slight reduction in firepower.â€
“How much a reduction, if it is a heavier weapon then perhaps we could fit smaller weapons?†One SLDF Major asked
“Which could not match the weapon’s range or other capabilities†Photon answered “At long range it does as much damage as say a Clan Medium Laser at approximately the same range, slightly less range it can match a standard Large Pulse, and closer it can better a Clan Large Pulse Laser or a Particle Cannon without the close range penalties.†Photon explained, perhaps his comparing to Clan Technology was not the best plan.
“What about accuracy? The Large Pulse is a darling close in.†Another asked
“The weapon is slightly less accurate however it is better than say a standard laser or particle cannon.†Photon said keeping it simple, they were never going to refuse to take the weapons but he didn’t want to diminish the engineers work.
“What is the Mech design that weapon is being carried on?†Another person asked
“It is a classified design prototyped recently on Tamarind, we call it the Seraph.†Photon said turning to see Governor Gavin Dow behind him, what the former-ComStar man wanted was anyone’s guess.
“Funny Colonel, I was sure I’d seen it somewhere before…â€
“You must be mistaken, that Mech is the only of its type in existence†Photon said adding silently ‘in the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby anyway.’
“Of course, perhaps I have seen it somewhere else†Gavin said smiling before continuing “these weapons are quite impressive, why do we need to be here? You’re not showing off are you?â€
“Governor†Photon said stressing his position “we are here to present four of each size of Variable Pulse Laser to the forces of the Star League Defence Force, there are still some parts that need working on however I’m sure this will soon be a staple of the Inner Sphere’s fighting arm.†Photon staring daggers at the Governor wondering silently what he knew of the Seraph’s origins, the design originated in some of the darkest corners of the League from a source thought long gone the Word of Blake. If Dow had a connection to the Word then he was even more formidable than Photon already thought he was.
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Low Orbit
Galedon V, Galedon Military District
Draconis Combine
4th December 3076
The local defences of Galedon V consisted of a Kirishima-class Cruiser, the DCS Hohiro, and a Vincent Mk.42-class Corvette, the DCS Coordinator’s Blessing, one of the vessels salvaged from Clan Smoke Jaguar during Operation Bulldog. Along with several assault DropShips and three wings of ground-based aerospace fighters these vessels should be able to defend the planet against any and all aggressors, not that any was expected Galedon V wasn’t exactly a border world.
Unfortunately not all threats can be foreseen or perceived, in the early hours of a December morning a McKenna-class Battleship moved slowly into the planet’s space, a volley of four Heavy Naval PPCs targeted upon the Coordinator’s Blessing turned the Vincent Mk-42-class Corvette into a floating lifeless hulk. Though the Hohiro attempted to return fire with Naval lasers and medium particle cannons however the big Battleship soaked up the fire and returned fire with a pair of heavy naval autocannons that shattered the forward armour and opened the command deck to space followed by a broadside of Naval Particle Cannons tore the Cruiser to pieces.
The vessel painted in bone white camouflage patterns and no insignia then launched aerospace fighters and capital missile equipped DropShips. As these forces defended it against ground launched defenders the McKenna spent a total of sixteen minutes bombarding the planet of Galedon V from orbit targeting primarily population centres wiping out 83% of the population. During the assaulting they levelled a secret DCMS base that sent dozens of different chemicals and viruses into the air. The vessel, its surviving fighters and DropShips then turned to leave destroying any of their own disabled craft and scattering anything that could identify who or what they were.
Landing Grounds
Placida, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
16th December 3076
Following gaining permission from their Khan and following a long journey from the Nova Cat’s Den to the Inner Sphere Occupation Zones the First Nova Cat Armoured Cluster supported by the Spirit Sight, one of the Nova Cat’s Fredasa-class Corvettes, entered the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone to fight a Trial of Possession for the Zephros Infantry Fighting Vehicle and several blood heritages, mainly known for Armour prowess. It was a similar move to the Hell’s Horses move against the Nova Cats in the previous year for Nova Cat Armoured Vehicles. The Nova Cats win the Zephros design while the Hell’s Horses trade the Balius Quad-OmniMech for rights to manufacture the Nova Cat OmniMech design.
The Hell’s Horses and Nova Cats agree from now on to share their development knowledge on Armoured Vehicles and instead of trials they will trade them. The First Armoured Cluster then moves to Twycross to trade with the Sea Foxes there they net themselves a large quantity of HarJel before leaving for the Nova Cat’s Den.
Assault Line
Quentin, Dieron Military District
Draconis Combine
31st December 3076
Following some political sabre rattling the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine break out into full blown conflict erupting in violence on the manufacturing border world of Quentin in the Draconis Combine’s Dieron Military District. After some brief but deadly skirmishes the Federated Suns Davion Heavy Guards RCT lined against the Fortieth and Twenty-fourth Dieron Regulars Regiments for a classic brawl following a message from the Star League Defence Force to end the fighting or they would.
As the fighting began the Federated Suns force surprised the Combine troops with an entire companies worth of AS8-D Atlas BattleMechs charging forward of the other forces straight between the two Regiments. The one thousand-two hundred tons of BattleMech shouldn’t have been much of a thorn for two regiments worth of troops worth around one hundred thousand tons between them however these Atlas Mechs were specifically designed to get close to the enemy and tear them apart enhanced with Triple Strength Myomer strength, multi-missile launchers armed with short range missiles and Rotary Autocannons. Four of the Atlas’ started picking up an entire lance of light Mechs and throwing them into another bunch of Combine Mechs using their Triple Strength Myomers how they were intended, the rest of the Mechs opened up with a combination of autocannon and short range missile.
As the two Dieron Regulars Regiments were focused on the single company of Atlas BattleMechs the rest of the Davion Heavy Guards RCT began to encircle both Regiments. The Commanders of both regiments ordered their forces to begin to retreat, with only three of the Atlas’ destroyed. After this turnover there was little comeback from the Combine troops and soon enough they were driven off world and impressive debut for the AS8-D.
Hope you enjoyed 3076
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As one year ends another begins with a new beginning - a last chance - the end of a threat - and a legacy carried into the future
3077
Disused Military Compound, Gravestone’s Gorge
Rostock, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th January 3077
On the coast of the Avalon Ocean on the island continent of Rostock in a small disused Federated Suns Military base were three battered DropShips and their contingent of ground troops. Piloting her Men Shen OmniMech through the main gates with a bodyguard lance from the First Kathil Uhlans Regiment Faith Steiner looked around the people inside the base looked battered and shell shocked.
“Steiner, Uhlans Oneâ€
“Go ahead Major†the Uhlans lance commander said from his Stealth OmniMech.
“Stand guard, I am going into the command structure, if I don’t communicate in fifteen minutes then call in the Cavalry.†She ordered referring to the Battalion of the Kathil Uhlans and the DMI Battalion also based on the island. If these visitors stepped out of line there would be an immediate AFFS response supported by orbiting WarShips, in essence they were ready to bombard the island into nothing if it was required.
“Understood Major, the eyes are up.†Uhlans One answered the four Mechs turned their back’s on her Men Shen watching the base while Faith Steiner dismounted from her OmniMech. At the foot of the Mech she dressed in a simple green jumpsuit, with major rank epaulets on the shoulders, before heading into the command building past a pair of guards who immediately snapped to salute.
Once inside the building she was taken through the buiding to a large meeting room inside where the four most senior members of the remaining McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry Regiment were discussing their options. To her left was Colonel Angel Bodez, former commander of the second Regiment, next to him was Major Steven Risner, an expert at special operations both battle armoured and standard, at the back was Elizabeth McCarron, her last remaining alive relative, and finally there was Major Drake Calhoun, Battalion commander of the McCarron’s forces. “Good afternoon†Faith said looking at them one to the next finishing on Elizabeth “I heard you have news for me, I’m sorry for the state of your accommodations.†She apologised this base had not been used by the AFFS since the end of the Fourth Succession War and had fallen into disrepair.
“Major we do not intend on falling back into the clutches of another Succession Lord even one that has saved us.†Angel Bodez said straight away, “we plan to return to the mercenary life, and plan to fully register with the MRBC on Galatea.â€
“We’d also like you to take full command†Major Steven Risner said looking at Faith “you have widespread support through the troops, the McCarron blood still runs through you despite the name that’s obvious, and you were the first to break free from the Capellan nation.â€
“It’s not something I want; I’ve retired from combat as a living.†She said honesty “that Men Shen that is on the courtyard sits in a storage hanger at the Fox’s Den beside Reinhart’s Warhawk for most of the year where techs from NAIS get more use out of it than me. I have a young family, a loving husband and I‘m settled, I have no plans to become a mercenary again.†Faith said looking at each of them ending on Elizabeth “you have a McCarron in your forces, you have the support and the will all of your own. Lead your people from the front†she continued looking at Elizabeth.
“Me?†Elizabeth said surprised she was the youngest in the room.
“You’ve got more experience than many older leaders in the same position; I think perhaps you should step up.†Faith said smiling broadly “I have your first contract, a five year OppFor force working for the AFFS. With full BattleMech and armour upgrades available at a price.†Faith said making the AFFS’s offer for them “also the rescue was done free of charge.†She added the use of the WarShips and the Uhlans had blooded the Federated Suns force gaining them experience which according to many was better than any monetary payback. Also they got to hurt the Capellans which the AFFS was always happy to accommodate.
“We will take the contract, once Colonel Bodez has travelled to Galatea.†Elizabeth said “we will want to make an amendment to this contract however†she said looking at the others noticing their nods “we want no upgrade packages, the equipment we have will remain as is until we earn enough for it there will be no company store†she said referring to the policy of a state to get a Mercenary into so much debt they could never become independent again.
“And you will take command?†Faith asked, the others nodded before Elizabeth did then she followed suit “Good, Colonel McCarron, I wish the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry Regiment a very successful career.â€
“Thank you, Major Steiner†Elizabeth said snapping to a salute which all the officers quickly copied and Faith returned. She knew them all so very well that it hurt to turn her back on them, but ever since coming to the Federated Suns she had felt more and more that her place was no longer on the field. She wanted a life more of peace, and with her own family, these people would always be special to her and she would mourn their passing but she knew her place and had her own life to live.
Isolation Wing, Medical Wing
New Avalon Institute of Science, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
15th January 3077
After several months at the Isolation Wing of the NAIS Medical Centre’s Medical Wing Duchess Isis Marik knew there was something wrong, the most advanced medical facilities in the Inner Sphere and the Doctors were still struggling. Waiting just outside the ward Isis remained quiet contemplating things when Victor Steiner-Davion appeared almost from no-where dressed in a simple AFFS duty uniform, she rarely saw him out of uniform now much like his father had been in his later years, despite not being in the field as often he still showed he was part of the AFFS willing to climb into the trenches with his troops. “Prince Davion†she said startled by his unannounced visit.
“Isis, we know each other a little better than that.†He said smiling “I have spoken with your daughter’s doctors, there is little more they can do but to prolong her life as it is.†He said Victor could see tears in her eyes “I’m sorry Isis.â€
“Thank you, Victor; I was beginning to fear the same myself, the Wolf and Lyran techs said much the same.†She said trying to remain strong as tears began to drop onto her cheeks “how long?â€
“A couple of months, perhaps less if you decide to take her home†Victor said breaking the news. “I’m sorry, Isis†Victor said turning away as she began to breakdown.
“Thank… you†she whispered “oh, Peter†he heard her whisper.
“Isis†Victor said calmly turning seeing she couldn’t answer “there is another option however I need your authorization before it could begin to work and there are still strong risks of failure.†He said looking into the isolation cell where Melinda was still cared for.
“What is it? Anything†Isis said grabbing his arms making him face her fully.
“Isis, my nation has close ties with Clan Nova Cat; they have an embassy here on New Avalon however unlike the Wolves in the Commonwealth these Nova Cats have the full resources of an independent Clan. With your permission I’d like to invite their doctors and scientists over to help.†He said placing his niece’s life in the hands of the Clans was something he could never have imagined happening twenty years ago and would have likely knocked out anyone who had the idea.
“The Exiles failed, Victor, I cannot see how another Clan can make a difference.â€
“Will it hurt to try?†He asked simply, bluntly “the Nova Cats have a strong science caste.â€
“Please tell them to do what they can.†Isis said finally, her daughter would die without this chance, her husband would likely never see her again. It was a chance but one Isis felt needed to be taken.
Filtvelt Command and Control
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition, Periphery
22nd January 3077
Following their last marginally successful raid against the Filtvelt Coalition and the revelation that there were Nova Cats within the lightly defended Filtvelt Coalition, the prospect of capturing advanced materials including Clan technology was too much of a lure for the pirate forces.
After talking to several of her fellow pirate commanders Paula Trevaline now led three regiments of assorted ground troops transported by three JumpShips. These forces were supported by three Assault DropShips, including a Mule-class Q-Ship Pocket WarShip which the pirates had gained through mysterious circumstances, and two full wings of aerospace fighters. Together they landed on Filtvelt intent on destroying the Command and Control facilities of the Coalition and capturing as much advanced weaponry and expensive jewels as possible. With a chance it would demoralize these people enough to disorganize the other worlds making them easy pickings.
For a start the operation went extremely well with the Death’s Consorts leading their motley force to Filtvelt from a nearby pirate point. In orbit they encountered an ancient Avenger-class Assault DropShip supported by several squadrons of aerospace fighters which the pirates fighters and assault DropShips engaged. In a short bloody battle the Filtvelt Avenger was destroyed in a ramming action against the Mule-class Q-Ship while the fighters of the Filtvelt forces were overturned by the remaining pirate forces. The loss of the Q-Ship was a tough one which Paula knew wouldn’t be replaced easily but it had opened the door which was all they needed.
Once grounded the three combined regiments of Lady Death’s pirates moved on the Filtvelt’s command and control centre supported by aerospace forces. Within the pirate force was a regiment of mixed BattleMechs with the rest made up of armour and infantry, often armed with advanced weaponry not normally found in the Periphery.
Against them defending the city and the command centre was two full regiments of the Filtvelt Guardian defenders. Though outnumbered and outgunned by the pirates in BattleMech forces and conventional assets the Guardians had two things to their advantage first they knew the territory like the back of their hand and were using rivers and raised areas to their full. The second advantage was the 246th Battle Cluster of Clan Nova Cat’s Sigma Galaxy which had brought all four of its Trinaries to the planet. After the previous assault against their forces the Nova Cats had chosen to abandon their garrison duties, instead the 246th was preparing to go bandit hunting; now the bandits had come to them. With the Nova Cat’s assaulting from behind led by Star Colonel Rebecca Leroux and the two combined regiments of the Filtvelt Guardians holding from in front the Pirates were in trouble from the start.
After several hours of hard fighting the Consorts and there allies were beaten back and began to run towards their DropShips. Among the forces of the surviving pirates was Paula Trevaline and her imfamous Orion BattleMech. The combined Filtvelt/Nova Cat force continued to chase and engage the pirates all the way to their DropShips harrying them forcing them to fight as they withdrew. Much of the pirates thought they were safe at the DropShips as the Nova Cat ground forces halted their pursuit under the threat of the DropShips guns. Relieved she had escaped Lady Death Trevaline entered the safety of her DropShip only to see the battle had already reached the DropShip. Inside the main bay were her warriors and techs who had already retreated surrounding them were two points of Elemental Battle Armoured troopers. Even though her Orion was combat capable she knew there was nowhere to run as two of the Elementals leapt up onto the Mech’s shoulder. Surrendering Pirate Queen Lady Death was removed from the cockpit.
Following her capture Paula Trevaline was paraded through Filtvelt’s capital in the cloths she had worn in her Mech all the population could see how the Clan’s dealt with pirates despite the wishes of Colonel Eric LeBleau the local Filtvelt commander. She was led to the central courtyard of the city outside the main government building and forced to kneel from behind Elemental stepped up and shot a single round into the back of her head ending the pirate queen’s life without ceremony or fan-fare. It was the same way the Nova Cats had dealt with the Tortuga Fusiliers commanders; it was the same way any pirate should die the Nova Cats then left her body there for the Filtvelt authorities to deal with.
At the pirate point where the pirates JumpShips were left by the pirates they met their own surprise the Bond, a Nova Cat Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser. The three Invader-class vessels fired their limited weaponry at the Cruiser in a vain attempt to keep Paula Trevaline’s plan alive. The Bond returned fire with a single naval autocannon dedicated to each of the JumpShips.
Hours later after all the fighting was over and the people had rejoiced at the end of the pirate threat a single six wheeled armoured vehicle weighing in at sixty tons drove straight up to the central government building in the Filtvelt capital. None of the defenders had detected it or seen its matte black form, from its position it showered the building with fourteen short range missiles starting fires as inferno fuel exploded over the building. The tank then fired several volleys of high explosive missiles into the building shattering the forward façade and collapsing the upper floor onto the lower. The cost would be in the millions of C-Bills to replace the building which had been finished not so long before, the people of Filtvelt had taken a step forward by ending the pirate threat of the Death’s Consorts then been knocked back a step by this lone aggressor. The Bolla Stealth Tank then quietly moved off through the city and despite the dozens of eye witness accounts of the Tank’s presence there is no radar detection of the Tank and no-one was able to track the Tank as it left the planet.
Proving Grounds, Arc Royal
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
28th January 3077
Standing in front of the new warriors of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Khan Phelan Kell looked at his troops, it was strange to be raising an entire Galaxy at once however this was a very special Galaxy, Zeta Galaxy, they had been raised together for the last twenty-two years been in near seclusion shielded from conflicts on and around Arc Royal. This Galaxy had also been bred from heroes of old and he wanted them to know that “My fellow Trothkin, you are the future of our Clan, Clan Wolf (in-Exile) has survived since the end of the Clan invasion, we are continuing to strengthen our ties with the Lyran people and continuing to oppose our fellow Clans across the borders.
“You have been raised from genes of Clan Wolf including Ulric and Natasha Kerensky you are our future, never forget that.†Phelan said “in the future our Clan will have challenges ahead of it, challenges that could rock the very foundations of our clan, our people and our beliefs. Never forget that my Clansmen, Never forget.†He said stepping down the four Clusters of warriors stirred slightly and got back to work doing their jobs.
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Proving Grounds, New Haiti
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
4th February 3077
After years and years of work on the SM-Series of Hovertank the Nova Cats are able to perfect work on the Snow Tiger Hovertank, an Omni-version of the standard SM-series Hovertank design. After a series of trials and testing on New Haiti the Snow Tiger is cleared for full production with production from SM-series designs switched over to the Snow Tiger with amazing ease, showing the depth of the Nova Cat vehicle production capacity. Previously only Clan Hell's Horses had such affinity with combat vehicles but the Nova Cat Touman was beginning to appreciate these weapons of war.
The remaining SM-Series Hovertanks within the Nova Cat Touman and in storage inside the Nova Cat’s Den are slowly phased out of service first to Provisional Cluster and training positions then onto the merchant caste where they are sold or traded to the other Clans, the Federated Suns and the Reaches Coalition Pact member states, ninety percent of these trades are for natural resources the Nova Cats are lacking in or for units that they cannot produce themselves.
Nadir Point, Omi Kurita (Omi Kurita-class Super-Carrier)
Trial of Possession, New Samarkand
New Samarkand Military District, Draconis Combine
12th February 3077
The Omi Kurita sat at the Nadir Point of the New Samarkand system standing guard over the system ensuring there was no repeat of the Nova Cat attack on the system, and a One-and-a-half Million WarShip was one deterrent not much could answer.
“Sir, we have detected a Jump Signature! It is a vessel at least one million tons!†Chu-i Anton Chichi the sensor operator said.
“All crews to their weapons, have the first air wing ready for launch and have both the Kurita One and Kurita Two ready to launch.†The ships commander said looking at the screen.
“Ninety Percent sure it’s a Nightlord-class Battleship.†Sensors reported again.
“Nightlord, that means Clan, launch the air wing and DropShips. Defensive pattern. Anymore signatures?†All he got was shakes of the head “inform the planet and shipyards of this development.†He said as the Nightlord shimmered into existence, immediately it was obvious that is was a Clan Snow Raven vessel with the Raven insignia on the prowl, that made it an upgraded Nightlord II. “Any communications?â€
“This is the Snow Raven to Draconis Combine WarShip defending the Nadir Point of this system. We come for the Nagato, currently undergoing trials in this system, we are not an invading force and we wish only to conduct an Honourable Trial of Possession for a WarShip.â€
“This is the Omi Kurita, we have over three hundred fighters and six very capable DropShips at our disposal as well as the weapons of this craft.â€
“We have forty fighters of the best pilots in the Snow Raven Touman and two of our better DropShip crews, we are willing to deploy them all as well as the Snow Raven’s own ample weapons array. WarShip against WarShip I have little reason to doubt that my vessel would outclass your vessel however that would lead to far too much needless waste. I am willing to use a single DropShip and two Stars of fighters against your people in a trial for the Nagato.â€
“We will refute that Trial of Possession with three squadrons of our best pilots and two of our DropShips.â€
“Well bargained and done.†The Clan warrior said closing the link between the two mighty WarShips.
“Select our best pilots and DropShips, we will not loose.†The commander said, the Warlord of Samarkand or of Luthien would never accept such a failure. Several hours later the fighters and DropShips engaged in combat between the Nadir and Zenith point, the Snow Raven and Omi Kurita remaining above the fighting observing. In a short brutal battle the two DropShips and half the fighters of the Omi Kurita were destroyed while all the fighters of the Snow Raven was destroyed and the DropShip was heavily damaged in all it was a draw between the two forces. Because the Draconis Combine held the system the draw was awarded to the Combine as a victory, the Snow Raven exited the system two hours later after recovery operations of pilots and equipment.
Border Skirmish
Federated Suns/Capellan Confederation
Inner Sphere
12th-14th March 3077
On the 12th March 3077 the Federated Suns assaults the Capellan Confederation in three combined assaults led by the three Syrtis Fusiliers Regiments and supported by the Federated Suns Admiralty. The Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT supported by the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment land on Menke in the opening assaults supported by the WarShips FSS New Avalon, a Whirlwind Block II-class Destroyer. On the ground they encountered they the Third Capellan Defence Force supported by three regiments of conventional troops. In a two day battle the Third was forced off the planet with heavy damage despite a tough fight on the ground that crippled the Wild Geese Regiment. In space the FSS New Avalon destroyed two of the Capellans smaller DropShips before they escaped.
At almost the same time the Sixth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT supported by The Arcadians Mercenary Regiment launched an assault on Mitchel there was very little resistance on the ground what resistance did come came from two small mercenary companies and the local militia. None were very well trained and in a very short fight were wiped out to the man. The Sixth continued preparations for future operations while the Arcadians secured the world.
On the 13th March 3077 the Eighth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT completed the course of the Brigade as they landed on Jacson supported by the Federated Freemen Mercenary Regiment. A low capability world like Mitchel there was very little fighting on the world with the Federated Freemen filling a role like The Arcadians securing the world quite quickly.
Pirate’s Haven Base
Pirate’s Cluster, Periphery
18th February 3077
The Pirate Cluster was almost impossible to navigate through with only a few navigators that could make it through in one piece, two of the Jump-Drive technicians had died with Paula Trevaline leaving an even smaller pool of people capable of reaching the Pirate's Haven. Newly minted Pirate Queen of the Star Cluster Portia ‘Torrent’ Ryan had been able to secure two of theses individuals on her way to the throne formerly occupied by Trevaline. A career arsonist she begins her rule as new Queen of the Pirate's Haven by torching Trevaline’s former home and the remaining people connected to Trevaline's rule. Everyone the old Queen had trusted wiped out in a single fire, an arsonists dream.
Border Skirmish, Victoria
Victoria Commonality, Capellan Confederation
15th March 3077
The endgame target of the Federated Suns strike into the Capellan Confederation was Victoria and the factories there. All three Syrtis Fusiliers Regiments supported by the FSS New Syrtis, a Fox Block I-class Corvette, the FSS New Avalon, a Whirlwind Block II-class Destroyer and the FSS Kathil, a Hound-class Corvette/Heavy Raider. Defending the world was the Prefectorate Guard Regiment and the Olson’s Rangers Mercenary Regiment in orbit was the WarShip Ilsa Huang supported by a dozen assault DropShips the Feng Huang-class Cruiser sat ready.
The Ilsa Huang assaulted the FSS Kathil first targeting the Hound-class Corvette first causing with heavy volleys of Naval Lasers and Particle Cannons at extreme range the raider could not take such an assault and it began to vent atmosphere on several levels before the captain ordered an evacuation steering the vessel away from the others before its engines exploded. The New Syrtis and New Avalon charged in with an almost reckless abandon striking at the Feng Huang. A concentrated assault from both WarShips shattered the back of the Feng Huang in short order clearing the grounds for the three Syrtis Fusiliers Regimental Combat Teams.
On the ground the Prefectorate Guard and the Olson’s Rangers defended the Shengli Arms Facility first however against three Regimental Combat Teams after the world and the factory they had little chance. With Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek and his command battalion joining the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT. With eighteen conventional regiments and just over three Mech Regiments against them the Capellans would have had a hard time for a start however it was made worse by Zhong-shao Emile Nan Loen ordering the Olson’s Rangers to engage the Federated Suns forces alone as the Protectorate Guard set demolition charges around the Shengli Arms facility.
Against all the Federated Suns Regimental Combat Teams the Olson’s Rangers had no chance and were wiped out to the man with minimal damage to the Syrtis Fusiliers. Not wanting to see the Prefectorate Guard given the same treatment Nathaniel Hasek offered the unit a way out, quit the system and survive with your guns intact, Emile Nan Loen refused and instead he led his four Mech Battalions, the air wing (air guard), a battalion of armour and two battalions of Battle Armour charged the Federated Suns Regiments delaying them just long enough for the Shengli Arms Facility to be demolished by the Prefectorate Guard’s engineers, with no prize left to fight for the remains of the Prefectorate Guard agreed to disarm and surrender under the Syrtis Fusiliers guns where they were interned in Prisoner-of-War camps.
In space the Victoria Shipyards appear to have been sabotaged with key components removed so the facility cannot be used and will require repair, which could take multiple years.
Emergency Relief Centre
Galedon, Galedon Military District
Draconis Combine
21st March 3077
The scene on Galedon was bad even for an experienced after-disaster expert like Haiku Sato, even in her environment suit things looked bad. From their initial findings the bombardment of the world, from a McKenna-class Battleship, had either included a biological element or hit a military bunker with hazardous material. This material had ended up in the atmosphere and now nearly everyone on the planet was in the first stages of half a dozen different viruses. Some of the patients Haiku and her team may be able to save others, the best they could do was give the best pain relief as possible.
From the information gained by the rescue teams an independent ISF team attached to them discovered it was from a DCMS bunker on the planet the viruses were released and that the James McKenna, a McKenna-class Battleship, in the services of Clan Snow Raven had remained in orbit of Alpheratz for the last year and not moved throughout that time.
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University of Thorin, 2km North Ecol City
Thorin, Freedom City
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd April 3077
Although the Star League engineers were continuing to build more of University the first building of the new facility was ready Commandant Edward Belaya surveyed his new place of work. Though not the largest University building he’d ever seen it was an important start. The first building had been placed in the exact same location as the same building of the original University of Thorin, which the new University campus would be built upon and serve in a similar capacity.
This building and the others nearing completion would be the Star League’s first permanent facility on the planet for centuries and a step back towards the golden age of the original Star League. The first cadets are due to land on the planet for studies in 3078, training would also take place at the Fort Facility inside Ecol City while training would also include the Thorin Militia, which had recently been feeling isolated by the Isle of Skye Regional Command.
Star League Training Grounds
Defiance, Point Barrow Combat Region,
Crucis March, Federated Suns
15th April 3077
Following the previous years exercise against the Nova Cat Liaison force the First Defiance Training Battalion again agree to fight a mock battle against the Clan Nova Cat forces in the Federated Suns. Unlike the previous fight this time the Training Battalion fight the Nova Cat unit alone without any ‘celebrity’ officer assisting them instead Colonel Drake McMillan commands himself and they are able to fight the Nova Cats to a draw. The Nova Cats award the Training Battalion with the gift of an Ares Medium Tank. The Forty-fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers Cluster begins rotation of a single Trinary at a time through Federated Suns front-line units to gain experience.
Command Bridge, LCS Yggdrasil (Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser)
Zenith Point, Thorin
Freedom Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
18th April 3077
The largest Lyran WarShip since the fall of the first Star League, the massive LCS Yggdrasil, jumped into the Thorin system followed by three civilian JumpShips all carrying cargo and tug-type DropShips. Already just off the Zenith point was the SLS Morgan Hasek-Davion, the representative vessel of the Star League Defence Force, waited along with two Monolith-class JumpShips. The Yggdrasil’s sensors immediately detected something untoward however as sensors detected six unidentified JumpShips supported by several Aurora-class Assault DropShips at the Nadir jump point. “Punch up their IFF codes, ready the alert fighters just in-case. Query the Morgan see if they know who our uninvited friends are.†Kapten Karen Grant ordered.
“Kapten they identify with Isle of Skye IFF codes†sensors reported
“Morgan reports a representative from Skye is on board and that we may send over our representative when we are ready.†Communications reported moments later.
“S.O.B†Karen whispered under her breath before turning to communications “pass to Morgan we will be over presently" she said pushing away from her chair “have meet-and-greet party meet me in launch bay six†she said although they could use a DropShip a small craft would do the job just as well the Yggdrasil’s presence would ensure nothing would happen. This would be the first official meeting between the Star League and Lyran construction crews in the Thorin system for the construction of a Recharge Station at both the Nadir and Zenith points around Thorin’s star.
Across on the Morgan Hasek-Davion Karen met the Captain Elizabeth Helsin, commander of the Destroyer, and the Star League construction experts along with Henry Carmichael the Isle of Skye representative. Aboard the Destroyer’s Alpha Gravity Deck in a small conference room they began discussing how things would be done. “Initial Star League Projections were that we would construct one Olympus-class Recharge Station while the Lyran authorities would construct their own station at the other point.†The Star League engineer Lewis Hammond said starting off.
“While this may work in the realm of super-powers there is one thing you forget my good sir is that Thorin is still and Isle of Skye world.†Henry Carmichael said trust the Isle to complicate things.
“Mister Carmichael, though the Isle has authority over the how to defend the worlds within its borders things that affect the whole Commonwealth fall within High Command purview. And we have the firepower to back it up.†Karen reminded the man, Carmichael just smiled.
“How about if the Lyran Commonwealth and the Star League built the stations and retained fifty percent of the profits however the Isle of Skye provided the crews, ran station and received the other fifty percent from both stations? Both the Lyran Commonwealth and Star League would receive profits and usage of the stations - at a priority basis. While the Isle would get money equivalent to one fully operational station and almost one thousand jobs for its citizens.†Elizabeth Helsin suggested all three parties seemed to like that idea nodding their agreement of the plan “good, now the crews can get to work, soon Thorin will be on the map we should make sure it is prepared.
Lyran Commonwealth/Jade Falcon Border
Periphery/Inner Sphere Occupation Zones
22nd April 3077
Moving swiftly and hitting four worlds simultaneously Clan Steel Viper returns to the Inner Sphere in a blaze of fire. On the morning of the 22nd two Steel Viper WarShips, the Martial Legacy an Essex-class Destroyer and the Snake Leader a Congress-class Frigate along with two clusters from the Beta Galaxy conquer two Jade Falcon Worlds Newton’s Square and Clermont in lightning fast Trials of Possession. At the same time clusters from the Steel Viper’s Gamma Galaxy secure Kolovarity, Pangkalan, Annuziata and Chapultepec from the Lyran Commonwealth’s Melissa Theatre, these clusters are supported by the WarShips Serpents, a Potemkin-class Troop Transport and the Zalman’s Endeavour, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser. These assaults severely weaken the defending units in the area and completely isolate the Theatre capital Melissa.
Retaliating with these attacks the Lyran Commonwealth directs the WarShips LCS Snow Fire, a Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser, supported by the two Hyperion-class Heavy Cruisers Cairo and Barcelona. These WarShips were met by and escorted the Third Alliance Guards RCT, the First Coventry Jaegers Regiment and the Fourth Donegal Guards RCT to the world of Melissa to blunt any further offensive. From their position on Arc Royal Clan Wolf (in-Exile) also direct the WarShip Implacable, its Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser and the newly formed Zeta Galaxy to Melissa to support operations. Finally completing the multi-national force ready to stop the Steel Vipers comes the Star League Defence Force’s SLS Shining Claw, a Congress Block II-class Frigate, Twenty-first Rim Worlds Brigade, and the Avatars Brigade from the Third Division supporting the 1894th Light Horse Brigade which is already based on Melissa alongside elements of the Lyran Commonwealth’s Sixth Alliance Guards RCT.
Zeta WarShip Brian Cache
Strana Mechty System, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworld
26th April 3077
The Clan Nova Cat vessel Ranger, a Lola III-class Destroyer, moved slowly into the Zeta Brian Cache. Using ancient authorization codes that had originated in the Ranger’s computers for centuries the six hundred-and-fifty-three metre six hundred-and-eighty thousand tonne vessel moved slowly at one gravities speed towards the cache. Standing on the bridge Star Colonel Cameron Nova Cat commander of the Second Watch Cluster looked at the Holo-tank in the centre of the room the Zeta Cache was not the best equipped Cache, with few of the large vessels here mostly corvettes, destroyers and transports, however it was one of the largest, made up of almost one hundred-and-eighty vessels. Most of these were of a single class the Star League-era super, top secret small Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft.
“Are they all here?†Cameron asked looking at the vessels commander Star Commodore Franklin who had his crew scanning ship after ship.
“We are still scanning†Franklin said his ship had been in combat several times in recent years most recently against the Draconis Combine Navy defending the Nova Cat merchant fleet, the damage done to the vessel’s sensors had been repaired however they still suffered time delays as the equipment suffered with age. “Double check that.†He said to his crewmen turning to Cameron. “Star Colonel, initial counts place the Bug Eye count at one hundred-and-thirty-three, six lower than what the Ranger’s previous sensor records place it at.â€
“There are six vessels missing?†Cameron said, ever since the Principle had destroyed a Bug Eye in the Tortuga system the year before the Nova Cats had been dreading the findings from this scan, however it did not stick with the Clan philosophy they knew where the Nova Cat‘s Den was why spy on it.
“Aff, it appears our worse fears may have been confirmed.†Franklin said, the Nova Cat Clan Council had been debating for a year if the other Clans were targeting the Den for a strike, this seemed to confirm it.
“Perhaps, but now we plan for the future.†Cameron said reaching for the communication button “Ranger Bridge to Watch Cluster, carry out your orders routing all sensor data.†He said from the belly of the Destroyer ten Small Craft launched they were under orders to select the four best Bug Eyes and begin brining them back to operational status.
“Star Colonel, do you mind telling me what your people are doing?â€
“Carrying out our orders†Cameron said handing Franklin an electronic padd with the orders “counter signed by the Khan, saKhan and Star Admiral McKenna.â€
“So why did I not get handed these orders?â€
“Need-to-know†Cameron said turning back to the Holotank.
“Since when did our Clan have ‘Need-to-know‘?â€
“Since we entered the new worldâ€
“Well when this is over I think you will face a Trial of Refusal, as will our Khan†Franklin said stepping beside Cameron “this is distasteful we are Clan we should not need to spy on others.â€
“Why wait?â€
“We are in the middle of an operation Quiaff?â€
“Aff, however if we are interrupted I will require this vessel to fire on any vessel that interrupts us.â€
“There is a strict no weapons fire in the Strana Mechty system from WarShip vessels, especially in a Cache.â€
“We are not even supposed to be here. If we are found you will have to fire just to cover our presence. You will answer a Trial of Possession in the cargo bay in twenty minutes.†Cameron said walking clear of the Command Centre.
The time passed and soon enough Franklin met Cameron in the cargo bay along with several other crewmen from the Ranger as witnesses. “I Star Commodore Franklin, commander of the Ranger, have been called to this Trial. I am here, I am waiting.â€
“And I Star Colonel Cameron, will answer it.†Cameron said leaping down from a group of boxes his magnetic boots brining him down in the Zero-g environment “Star Commodore Franklin you are stuck in the past, it is time that the Nova Cats were led by people with a future.â€
“I believe we have a future.†Franklin said
“As do I however, you are not part of it.†Cameron said dropping into a combat pose.
“Seyla†they both uttered, time to pause, consider, reflect. Franklin then followed Cameron into a combat pose, unlike many of the Nova Cats Aerospace Forces Franklin was not of the aerospace phenotype instead he’d been born a MechWarrior and tested down, which made beating Cameron all the more important. The younger man was everything Franklin could and should have been. Slipping off his magnetic boots Franklin tried to catch Cameron off balance by charging in the zero gravity however the Star Colonel deflected the blow Cameron punched out at Franklin’s knee and rib. The Star Commodore retaliated with a punch of his own catching Cameron’s elbow joint with the blow, the MechWarrior retaliated with two more punches breaking Franklin’s left shoulder and dislocating the elbow of the same arm. The Ranger’s commander began to float in the zero-g out of control but Cameron did not let up with three more punches and a kick he shattered Franklin’s left knee cap and broke two more ribs, bleeding internally and incapacitated Franklin didn’t have any fight left in him, Cameron anchored himself but let the Commodore float away “This trial is over, I now command this vessel, medics save him if you can he can still be useful, as my executive officer.â€
Surrounding the Ranger the Nova Cat small craft were closing in on four of the Bug Eye craft they had singled out as in the best condition of all the craft. The SLS Storm, SLS Barrier Reef, SLS Luna and the SLS Clarkston. The Watch personnel had trained for the last three months with simulators to be able to operate a Bug Eye like any regular navy crewmen. Brining the Bug Eyes online took a full three weeks however with the Ranger providing a massive Electronic Screen over the Cache no-one noticed, then with everyone ready the five ships moved to a nearby pirate point and from there jumped clear of the Strana Mechty system with the Ranger continuing to provide electronic and firepower support. During the year long month travel between the Clan Homeworlds and the Nova Cat’s Den obvious problems with the vessel’s systems cropped up and the Watch Cluster began to plan for the four vessels to be modified and have their systems replaced to being them up to full operational status.
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Thorin Training Complex, University of Thorin
Thorin, Freedom Theatre
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
4th May 3077
With the University of Thorin now open and the Star League beginning to run training programs in various fields the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces choose to form a brand new Training Battalion. Similar to the Federated Suns Training Battalions, this was for joint exercises with the SLDF and to help bring more people into the LCAF and the SLDF, even though some of the top brass of the LCAF disagreed with bringing uneducated ‘low born’ people into the Armed Forces.
Much of the equipment was formed from retired equipment from other units, the local Thorin Planetary Militia was most annoyed that they had been looked over for equipment while the new Training Battalion had received an entire unit’s worth of equipment. Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner was also annoyed that the State command was forming military units inside his region.
Front-Line
Liao Commonality, Capellan Confederation
10th, 11th, 12th, 14th May 3077
On the 10th May the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry supported by the New Hessen Armoured Scouts Mercenary Regiment landed on Tall Trees steamrolling the local defences in less than four hours. The Second New Hessen Irregulars Regiment supported by the Second Kearny Highlanders Regiment of the Northwind Highlanders Brigade landed on Saiph on the 11th in the follow up to the attack on Tall Trees, as with that attack the Capellans retreated under the attack, of the collective mercenary force the Highlanders sent unblooded warriors into combat allowing the New Hessen troops. On the 12th May the Wolf’s Dragoons Epsilon Regiment landed on Aldebaran one jump from Liao, the Phyr’s Hussars Regiment was forced off the world with heavy damage, the regiment retreated to the world of Liao to bolster the world’s defences in case of follow up assaults from the Federated Suns.
Two days later word of the Federated Suns attacks reaches Sian of the Federated Suns attacks Chancellor (Magestix) Naomi Centrella contacts the Star League Council and requests that they intervene in the attacks as they had before, because the Capellan Confederation is no longer part of the Star League Council or the Defence Force the SLDF refuse to become involved in the conflict.
Battle-line
Melissa, Melissa Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
18th May 3077
Continuing their assaults Clan Steel Viper pushed into the Lyran Commonwealth with the whole of Gamma Galaxy supported by the WarShip Martial Legacy, an Essex-class Destroyer, assaulted the world of Melissa the capital of the Melissa Theatre. On the planet already were the remnants of the Sixth Alliance Guards RCT of the Lyran Commonwealth and the 1894th Light Horse Brigade of the SLDF.
In orbit several Lyran DropShips supported by the Light Horse Aerospace forces engaged the incoming Martial Legacy. The Destroyer was far superior to the incoming forces and soon all the Lyran DropShips were in retreat and the Light Horse Fighters were in retreat or broken.
Landing en masse Gamma Galaxy was immediately assaulted by the angry Sixth Alliance Guards RCT supported by the Melissa Planetary Militia. With the more Clan troops dropping from their descending DropShips and the DropShips themselves providing fire support against the Lyran troops the Sixth Alliance soon found themselves cut-off from their own defence lines and under heavy fire. The Melissa Planetary Militia sacrificed itself breaking free from the Clan lines allowing the Sixth to retreat under the guns of the 1894th Light Horse however the damage was done and the RCT had been cut in half, its commander dead on the field. Despite the knowledge that there was more Lyran Commonwealth troops en-route and this was only a holding action the Sixth Alliance troops, long feeling hard done by the Lyran Commonwealth Command, decided to merge their command with the 1894th despite being under combat conditions, this effectively ended the independence of the Sixth Alliance and the troops became SLDF troops.
The very next day after heavy slugging out between the SLDF troops and the Clan Steel Viper troops the LCS Barcelona, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, escorting the Third Alliance Guards RCT. The Steel Vipers knew they were beat and chose to retreat with the Martial Legacy escorting them by the Barcelona, neither WarShip closed for more than a sniping fight and the Steel Viper Galaxy was able to move clear of the system.
Once on the planet the 1894th’s commanders expected trouble from the Third Alliance Guards RCT as their force now held many of their former comrades-in-arms however after a brief discussion from the Third’s commander and the armour commander of the former Sixth Alliance Armour the Third sent information back to the Lyran Commonwealth Command that the Sixth Alliance RCT were no longer a combat capable unit.
Elsewhere in the Occupation Zones Steel Viper forces continue their assaults against the Jade Falcon forces striking Kikuyu and Roadside taking both worlds with minimal losses. Across the Jade Falcon border the Crusader faction of Clan Wolf was unveiling the Tundra Wolf, their first purely Inner Sphere built BattleMech on Tamar. Though a standard BattleMech the Tundra Wolf will fill a gap in the Wolf Heavy Mech and Cavalry forces.
Orbit Over NAIS
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
30th May 3077
With Clan Nova Cat asked to provide medical assistance in the Federated Suns for Melinda-Anne Steiner the True Vision, Clan Nova Cat’s Congress-class Heavy Frigate, moved quickly to New Avalon ferrying a Union C-class DropShip full of scientists and Clan Nova Cat’s best doctors, amongst them is Clan Sea Fox experts called in by the Nova Cats to ensure things are successful. The Federated Suns are surprised but supportive of their Allies choices.
The True Vision was the vessel of use for the Nova Cats because since reintroducing the class the Federated Suns had many such vessels in their own service. The DropShip was chosen for the same reason as a Union-C looked exactly like the Inner Sphere version of the same DropShip meaning that unless someone looked out the window at the Black/Blue coloured WarShip they’d never be able to tell the difference between the True Vision and a Federated Suns frigate.
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Quarantine Zone
Galedon V, Galedon Military District
Draconis Combine
4th June 3077
Within the Quarantine Teams on Galedon V a quiet muttering that the illness on the world is out of control and the population are now wholly at risk. Teams can no longer control the amount of people looking to escape the world and a message is sent to Luthien requesting WarShip support to gun down any DropShip attempting to escape. On the planet DCMS troops begin replacing riot control rounds with live rounds as orders come down to gun down anyone attempting to reach on planet DropShips.
 
Eridani Light Horse Command
Fort Winson, Dieron
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
8th June 3077
“This can’t be right†General Edwin Amis said looking at the orders “get in contact with the Capital, I want an HPG link with Thorin or the Covenant, wherever Christifori is†he said chomping down on his cigar.
“Communications link with the capital is downâ€
“What?!†He shouted looking at the young Lieutenant “Dammit, get in contact with Recon Lance Charlie, have them proceed directly to the HPG and give me communications.â€
“DCMS locals may not like four of our Mechs charging into the capital…â€
“I don’t give a damn, I am not sending the Light Horse against the Ghost Bear Dominion for no damned reason, what do they expect us to do commit mass suicide?†He said staring down at the orders once more, he couldn’t believe it counter signed by the Commanding-General and Warlord Minoru Kurita.
Downtown the four Eridani Light Horse Mechs of Charlie Lance were running fast to the HPG given full authorization from Fort Winson to ignore locals who attempted to stop them and ask questions, although Amis had stopped short of ordering them to fire on the DCMS or local police forces. Lance commander Lisa Holmes in her Wraith Medium BattleMech was at the front, even though her Mech was the heaviest by quite a but it was also one of the most mobile matching Holman’s Clan built Pack Hunter for mobility despite being nearly twice the weight.
“Charlie One, Three, we have several Mechs flanking us on side streets from their composition I’d say it’s the Tenth Ghost Regiment.â€
“Good men and women hopefully we won’t have trouble for them, five hundred metres till the HPG compound. Charlie Lance, ready jump we’re not stopping outside.†The four Mechs continued to charge forward towards the HPG flanked by the four Combine Mechs.
Within one hundred metres the four Eridani Mechs launched into the air leaping over the perimeter fences of the boundary wall of the HPG station, the massive dish dwarfing everything around it. At the same time the four Combine Mechs were entering via the forward gates of the compound ignoring the station security even as the lead Eridani Mech linked communications with the station. “Charlie One to Fort, we have hard line for you but, we also have Tenth Ghost Mechs opposing us. Please advise.â€
“Lieutenant, Eridani One, maintain hard contact with station. Do not fire on Ghost Mechs without cause. We won’t start this.â€
“Understood†she replied looking at the four Combine Mechs, she thought they could probably take down the Ghosts but really didn’t want to. Long minutes past before the communications crackled again.
“Charlie One through Four, Eridani One, Ghost One has ordered his troops to hold until we can verify orders. Hold position until further orders.†Amis ordered, within a few minutes the HPG was in reorientation and communicating with the other HPGs in the Inner Sphere. Within two hours shocked replies from Luthien and Thorin told the story, Edwin Amis had been right all along there was no orders to assault the Dominion.
Second Ghost Bear Dominion/Draconis Combine War
Rudigen, Ghost Bear Dominion
10th June 3077
Eagar to prove their capabilities, reckless to not double check their orders were two phrases used to describe the Third Sirian Lancer Regimental Brigade, the Flames from Pollux, of the SLDF’s Second Division supported by the SLS Invincible they immediately jumped the border supported by the Second District of Dieron Regulars Regiment and the Fifth Sun Zhang Training Cadre both of the DCMS. Known forces on the world was two clusters of the Raging Bears, the Dominion’s Omega Galaxy, however in orbit they also found the Dieron’s Run, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser and the Den Mother, a Carrack-class Transport dropping off the rest of Omega Galaxy.
Suddenly finding themselves against a full Veteran a smart command would have turned tail and forgotten they’d ever been there. The Third Sirian and the Second Dieron charged forward anyway. With the SLS Invincible immediately called to engage the Dieron’s Run. A Clan Cameron-class Battle-cruiser was a match for the Tharkad-class Invincible however out of position and trying to defend the Den Mother proved too much for the inexperienced Ghost Bear crew. With a Star League crew desperate for some action the SLS Invincible soon overpowered the Cameron-class Dieron’s Run and left her crew to the mercy of space as her hull began venting atmosphere on almost every deck the craft spinning out of control as escape pods launched. The Invincible’s crew then doubled their kill score with a volley of weapons fire into the Den Mother destroying the Carrack in an instant.
With their naval opposition gone the SLDF and DCMS troops landed on the planet’s surface immediately engaging the on planet Omega Galaxy, who themselves were in the middle of ‘changing the guard’ unprepared for attack.
Second Ghost Bear Dominion/Draconis Combine War
Toffen, Ghost Bear Dominion
10th June 3077
Akin to the forces that had assaulted Rudigen the 789th Striker Regiment of the SLDF also known as the Crater Cobras had jumped the border supported by the DCS Lioness, the Draconis Combine’s York-class Carrier/Destroyer, a captured and retrofitted Clan Smoke Jaguar vessel. On the planet they found the Eight Bear Cuirassiers Cluster, of the Bear’s Delta Galaxy the Blitzkrieg, commanded by Star Colonel Dana Vishio a unit renown in the Ghost Bear Touman for adapting to and embracing Inner Sphere tactics. The two opposing forces quickly settled into a bogged down slugging match battle.
Second Ghost Bear Dominion/Draconis Combine War
Mannedorf, Ghost Bear Dominion
11th June 3077
Not only SLDF troops had received the wrong orders from the Black Dragons cut at the highest levels, possibly even the Dieron High Command the DCS Haruna, a Kyushu-class Frigate escorting the Ninth District of Pesht Regulars DropShips into orbit of the world Mannedorf in the Ghost Bear Dominion. With no Clan WarShip defending the planet the DropShips were clear to the planet, the Haruna manoeuvred over the planet and once in a position in standard orbit from its BattleMech cubicles the Mechs of the Third District of Dieron Regulars Regiment.
On the planet the Seventy-third Battle Cruiser of Clan Ghost Bear’s Blitzkrieg Galaxy had already begun to redeploy to meet the Ninth Pesht’s DropShips when the BattleMechs of the Third Dieron landed on their base securing it within thirty minutes of fighting against the heavily under strength defenders.
Caught in a vice between the two Draconis Combine Regulars Regiments the Seventy-third Battle Cluster despite being a veteran command of the Ghost Bear Touman stood no chance without its base and supplies. Charging at the Ninth Pesht Regulars Regiment they soon capitulated under heavy fire from the two Combine Regiments, with the Combine taking no prisoners from the battle. The two Regiments supported by the Haruna continued to secure the world and re-impose some Combine rule over the world.
Second Ghost Bear Dominion/Draconis Combine War
Setubal, Ghost Bear Dominion
12th June 3077
Akin to the Ninth District of Pesht Regulars and Third District of Dieron Regulars Regiment’s assault on the world Mannedorf the Eight District of Dieron supported by the Fourth District of Pesht Regulars and the WarShip DCS Draconis Rift, a Kyushu-class Frigate, landed on Setubal. Surprisingly they found very little resistance on the world securing if for the Draconis Combine quickly.
University of Thorin
Thorin, Freedom Theatre
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
13th June 3077
Following the formation of the First Thorin Training Battalion by the Lyran Commonwealth Command the Isle of Skye Command go ahead and form the First Isle of Skye Training Battalion to compete against the First Thorin Battalion and completely use the Star League Constructed facilities. Unlike the First Thorin Battalion which uses predominately renovated Heavy and Assault designs retired from other Commonwealth forces, the First Isle of Skye Training Battalion is made up of thirty-six Assault BattleMechs straight from the Hesperus II factories Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner says it is only to support further Lyran Commonwealth training initiatives.
Invasion Corridor
Lyran Commonwealth/Steel Viper Territory
18th June 3077
The second wave of Steel Viper forces arrive in the Inner Sphere Clan Delta Galaxy commanded by saKhan Nicole Hoskins herself supported by three WarShips captured the worlds of Kwangchow Wang, Medellin and Adelaide delving deeper into the Lyran Commonwealth.
Expecting a further push on Melissa the Lyran, SLDF and Clan Wolf (in-Exile) reinforcements escorted by two WarShips arrive around the embattled world joining the forces already there two days later the LCS Snow Fire, LCS Cairo and the Fourth Donegal Guards RCT all arrived in orbit around Melissa. Together they now had three full Brigades of troops, a Galaxy of Clan troops and four five WarShips ready to face off against the Steel Viper forces.
Fourth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd June 3077
At the Fourth Star League Games on Solaris VII everyone cries foul as a Lyran Commonwealth Colonel piloting a Brand-new Atlas II from the Factory on Hesperus II wins the championship. The pilot one Alex Hutchings had been given three months leave from his unit, the Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards, before the championship allowing him to secure the victory.
Border Raid, Victoria Arms and Technology Academy
Victoria, Capellan March
Federated Suns
26th June 3077
Silently against the darkness a trooper moved without the guards seeing his duty was clear his position sound his target sighted. Looking through his Fa Shih Battle Armour suit’s visor he could see his enemy sighting the weapons of his customized suit he raised his Magshot Gauss Rifle and pulled the trigger the gauss rifle made no sound as the rifle fire, the shot punctured the building in front of him and struck his target in the chest and explosion of blood followed and his target fell the new Davion appointed leader of the Victoria Arms and Technology Academy was dead. The trooper allowed panic to fill the lecture hall for a few moments then activated his suits controls, moments later the entire lecture hall was engulfed in fire, the Fa Shih trooper still standing still waiting watching the facility fall to pieces.
Within minutes Davion milita troops arrived along with emergency vehicles two Simca type ambulances to evacuate the casualties they were in the perfect position almost exactly one hundred metres from the main event far enough not to get in the way of the main trouble but close enough to evacuate the wounded. It was also less than ten metres from the Fa Shih troopers second prize and within moments they felt it in almost unnoticeable passenger bus filled with explosives detonated within moments engulfing the entire emergency zone in flames.
All this activity had not gone unnoticed however and within seconds of the bus explosion the Fa Shih trooper was under small arms fire as someone rumbled his position returning fire with the Magshot he took down one trooper then a second before firing his jump jets ready to make his escape. Unfortunately as was with most things his escape was not so easy as the assassination and explosions jumping ninety metres east he landed less than ten metres from a Davion Enforcer III which immediately fired its huge auto cannon, the fire from this weapon alone was enough to penetrate his armour and flatten the would be assassin in one shot. Lying on the ground the trooper could feel life disappearing from him just as the Enforcer finished the job with its massive foot at least there wouldn’t be much evidence.
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Royal Wing, NAIS Medical
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
3rd July 3070
Although their stay on New Avalon had been pleasant enough and on any other day should would enjoy being here Isis Marik, Duchess of the Lyran Commonwealth, was sick of the world and to a point she was sick of this very facility. It had been almost a year since her arrival on New Avalon with her daughter Melissa-Anne, almost two years since various doctors and scientists in two Realms and one Clan had tried to save her life from a fatal heart condition.
Entering Isis’ small waiting area beside Melissa-Anne’s room came Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion, Duchess of the Federated Suns, her closest thing to proper family for so many years and through their sibling brothers her sister-in-law. “Danai, such good to see you, I thought you had accompanied Victor off planet?â€
“Not this time, Victor asked me instead to be here with you, today was an important day.†She said quietly, Melinda-Anne had her second heart transplant today, which unfortunately had already been rejected by her stricken body.
“Yes, well the next hurdle with be just as important.†Isis said clearing a quickly formed tear from her eye.
“Isis†Danai whispered stepping forward, Isis warded her off.
“I have to be strong, for her, for Peter.†Isis murmured over further tears.
“Perhaps you should be brave.†Danai said which brought a harsh look from Isis, was she not being just as brave keeping Melinda’s hope up. “Perhaps it is time to make a leap of faith?â€
“What do you mean?†Isis asked confused as if coming across the Inner Sphere wasn’t a leap in its own.
“The Federated Suns has contacts, out with the Inner Sphere.†Danai said carefully, the Lyran Commonwealth knew that they dealt with the Sea Fox Clan on a mercantile level, what Inner Sphere state didn’t? However the Federated Suns/Nova Cat relationship was one more shrouded in mystery, since the Varnay Crisis everyone had known the Nova Cats were speaking with the Federated Suns diplomatically but it appeared to be far more than just talking. “They have offered the Federated Suns and by extension your daughter help from their finest minds.â€
“At what price? I do not lead the Lyran Commonwealth, Peter would give anything for his children, but even anything has a limit†she said remorsefully she also did not speak for the Commonwealth in an official position, she was after all still a Marik behind her marriage and many would never see past that.
“Nothing the Commonwealth or Peter cannot survive, our Clan neighbours and partners understand to survive they must work within systems and though they will push I know Peter can push back if need be. And of course Victor would not allow them to dictate terms on his own world. This is a good deal Isis, but it has risks.†She paused allowing the Steiner noble a moment “if we agree to this Melinda’s care will solely be in the Clan Scientists hands, they will not push her beyond return, but they may push her further than any of our NAIS doctors or even the Wolf (in-Exile) would.â€
“I understand Danai, I want my daughter to live, call your allies perhaps the brink can be pushed a little further.†Isis said glancing back at her daughter.
Galedon System
Galedon Military District, Draconis Combine
12th July 3077
Under orders from Luthien and New Samarkand Commands the DCS Galedon Explorer arrived in the system it was named for Galedon. Their orders were clear to turn any airborne DropShips back to the planet’s surface, if they refused any vessel caught outside the quarantine zone was to be shot down and destroyed.
Within a week of being in they system the vessel had shot down four vessels including an Invader-class JumpShip attempting to assist the DropShips. The vessel’s crew followed their orders without question using capital weapons to destroy the infected vessels.
Gray Death Industries
Gray Death Legion Land hold, Glengarry
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
18th July 3077
Continuing to push their capabilities in producing Battle Armour suit’s the Gray Death Legion’s Gray Death Industries Factory on Glengarry produce the Chameleon Quad-Battle Armour Suit for the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces and the Mercenary commands attached it carries mimic armour and is the first quad design to do so. Rumours continue to circulate that the Gray Death Industries did not design the craft that they gained it from the Baltazar III factory the Gray Death Legion captured from the Cirincus Federation campaign.
Kikuyu
Steel Viper Occupation Zone
20th July 3077
With orders from Khan Phelan Kell to assist SLDF/Lyran Commonwealth forces wherever possibly and push back the Steel Viper forces at every turn Clan Wolf (in-Exile)'s Zeta Galaxy supported by Implacable a Black Lion-class Battle Cruiser assaults the Steel Viper occupied world of Kikuyu. First attacking the orbital defenders with Implacable and several aerospace trinaries turning the Steel Viper’s Martial Legacy, an Essex-class Destroyer into a burning hulk
Without loosing ground the Wolf force hit the ground hard charging into the five Cluster strong defenders. The Green and Regular forces of the Wolves proving that good equipment and determination outweighed skill and numbers. Though they lost the Second and Third Mountain Clusters in the first two days these sacrifices allowed the destruction of the 423rd and 428th Assault Clusters.
With continued assaults from the Wolves planned and ready the Steel Vipers eventually agreed to retreat from the world, when the Wolves offer Hegira and safcon keeping the Implacable out of the way of any retreating Vipers but freeing Kikuyu from the clutches of the Clans for the first time since the initial Clan invasion in the 3050s.
Roadside
Steel Viper Occupation Zone
21st July 3077
As the Wolf force assaults Kikuyu the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces assault Roadside defended by two of Clan Steel Viper’s Delta Galaxy Clusters. Escorted by the LCS Cairo, a Hyperion-class Heavy cruiser, the First Coventry Jaegers and the Tamar Cavaliers Regiments find the Serpents, a Clan Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, also in system.
Though the Heavy Cruiser puts up a valiant fight against the Serpents the Clan Troop Cruiser’s broadsides of Heavy Particle Cannons soon burns the Cairo from bow-to-stern. Undaunted by the loss of their WarShip escort the Lyran ground troops escorted by a generous amount of fighters and Assault DropShips pushes onto the planet, the Serpents commander unwilling to engage in another fight.
On the ground the two Lyran Regiments seeing victory on the horizon immediately push at the Clan defenders with the Tamar Cavaliers executing a combat-drop on top of the Delta Galaxy Cluster. Combined with a push of Jaeger Armour and infantry the Delta Cluster collapses in on itself with nearly none of the warriors escaping back to clan lines. For a further three days the One-hundredth-and-fourth Assault Cluster continue to battle with Lyran forces however they are eventually evacuated by the Serpents after sustaining almost two thirds personnel and equipment losses.
Ghost Bear Counter Attack
Mannedorf, Disputed Territory
Draconis Combine
25th July 3077
So far the Combine’s assaults had bee taken on the chin by the Ghost Bear Dominion, no longer however. With their Touman ready the Ghost Bears launched a counter-attack starting with Mannedorf. The Rasalhague Galaxy with Galaxy Commander (Elected-Prince) Ragnar Magnesson at the fore and the Urlsa Major, the mighty Nightlord-class Battleship, supporting began the attacks.
The battle for control of the system actually started in high orbit over the world when the DCS Haruna, the Draconis Combine’s Kyushu-class Frigate, assigned to the system attempted to counter the Ghost Bear’s Urlsa Major. Though a very capable vessel the Kyushu stood no chance against the massive Nightlord which stormed in and quickly overwhelmed the vessel with massive amounts of weapons fire. The first time anyone knew of the Haruna’s demise was the sight of the vessel exploding in the upper atmosphere of the planet below as it crashed through the atmosphere, luckily the vessel was still high in the stratosphere so no long term damage was done to the world, the Rasalhague Galaxy then dropped onto the planet en-masse securing it from the picket forces left by the Draconis Combine with little trouble.
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Construction Site, Nadir point
Bastion-class Space Station
Coventry, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd August 3077
It was a normal ‘day’ at the Bastion Space Station construction site in the Coventry system, the one hundred-and-twenty workers assigned to the stations construction each wore sealed their suits and began their space walks continuing to build the station’s massive structure, hopefully they could soon seal the bulkheads to hold an atmosphere. Only then could they do away with the need for day-to-day space walks, the project was already falling behind schedule but the workers could only do what they could with the equipment they were left with.
At fifteen hundred hours standard time, it the upper section of the spheroid station one of the few pressurized sections, there was a massive explosion which pretty much gutted the entire pressurized section venting it, and fifteen personnel, into space. Six months of work, and some of the lead workers, wiped out in an instant. Though there was no immediate suspicion of foul play that changed an hour later when Coventry’s local news networks were overwritten by a Pirate Station which informed the Lyran people that the station had been attacked by Democracy Now, and that Democracy the true form of government for humanity would return to the Stars.
Archer Christifori’s office, The Fort
Star League Command Base
Thorin, Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
12th August 3077
As commander of the Star League forces on planet and throughout the Inner Sphere Archer Christifori was not used to visits from Lyran Commonwealth commanders, most sent messages to his aides and they were dealt with far from his eyes. This case was different Lt Colonel Marcus Jayne, commander of the Thorin Militia, had requested an audience with ’a fellow Thorin native’ knowing that because his heritage had been brought into it Archer had agreed to meet with him but also steeled himself at disappointing the man. Archer may be a Thorin native, and may still have several interests on the world but he had already agreed with the Archon and with the Star League Council that becoming involved in local Commonwealth politics was out of the question as it would compromise his position.
The Militia commander entered Archer’s office in his perfectly pressed Lyran uniform however Archer almost immediately noticed that the insignia of his command and rank were missing. “Colonel how can I be of help?†Archer asked in a informal tone.
“You can save my unit, sir†Jayne instantly said formally, immediately Archer was on guard and his previous agreements were immediately brought to the fore.
“I was not aware that your unit was under threat, Thorin has been quiet, if you mean budget cuts with the LCAF, I’m afraid I cannot interfere with internal politics of a nation.
“Sir, I a requesting protection from the SLDF for my personnel from the Loki.†Jayne answered naming the Lyran Commonwealth’s unofficial but deadly internal security force, answerable to the Archon on good days answerable to the Lyran Commonwealth’s interests above all.
“There are no Loki operations on Thorin, my people would know about it" he said confidently. The SLIC attachment to his office had already removed three Free Worlds League intelligence groups and were monitoring a Combine one. They were very good at their job "this may be a Lyran world but the SLDF have interests here and we far from blind.â€
“No sir you are not, however you are not aware of the situation.†Jayne said shifting one foot to the other nervously.
“Sit down man and start again.†Archer commanded
“Sir, nine days ago there was a bombing at the Coventry Defence Stationsâ€
“I am aware of itâ€
“What you may not be aware of is that two members from the Thorin Militia were responsible for the attack. There were damned Democracy Now operatives under my nose. We have internally gone through the ranks however the LIC and Loki will want to tear the unit apart following this, most of my people are weekend workers, Loki will want them cashiered or transferred from their families and stripped of their livelihoods, I don’t want that to happen.â€
“The SLDF cannot become involved in the internal workings of the nation states.â€
“You could make an offer to the Archon to undertake an independent investigation into the unit yourself, at my request. That protects us from the LIC at least for now, Sir, we are a Isle of Skye unit Intelligence has never been good to a skye unit, and we are a militia raised along AFFC lines they will tear us to bits sir. I don’t want us judged by the actions of two people.â€
“You won’t be.†Archer said involuntary “I will speak with the Archon regarding this request and the Loki will be kept at bay, for now, your people are to remain confined to your base until further notice. Understood Colonel?†Archer asked more formal now raising from his desk.
“Aye Sirâ€
“Good dismissed†Archer said turning away from the man he did not want this going any further, it was going to be a long night explaining this to the Council and the Archon.
Nadir Point, Santin West (Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser)
Varnay System, Varnay Shipyards
Nova Cat’s Den
18th August 3077
“Sir, two jump signatures consistent with empty Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers†the sensor operator said from the port console of the Santin West’s bridge the vessel was in full alert, this was a planned visit but no harm in practicing alert times.
“Right on time, inform the shipyard of their arrival and communicate with the Blessed Vision and have them spool up their Jump Drives, time for our delivery to be made.†The commander said the crew nodded, the Carrack-class Merchant Transport began to move further away and within minutes they had jumped away from the system just as two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers arrived in the system.
“Identity as the Black Justice and the Blue Lancer, both Snow Raven flags.â€
“Right on schedule, send them standard welcome, stand down from alert.†He said the first part of the deal had been completed the next part of the deal but there was still chances of trouble they’d just have to refuse the next part of the deal.
Two days later two Volga-class Transports arrived in the system, the Tenacity and Scavenger both arrived in the system and were handed over to Nova Cat hands, work immediately began on the two Aegis-class vessels.
Fort Winson, SLDF Eridani Light Force Command)
Dieron, Dieron Military District
Draconis Combine
21st August 3077
On hearing that SLDF units had joined the Draconis Combine Mustered Society in attacking the Ghost Bear Dominion General Edwin Amis, commander of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade, orders all SLDF to retreat from the Ghost Bear borders. All units do so except for the 789th Striker which is pinned in position on Toffen by the Draconis Combine‘s York-class Destroyer Lioness which refuses to allow them to leave the planet. With these troops refusing the retreat of the SLDF Brigade Edwin uses his position as head of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade to cut orders for some other SLDF assets to assist the 789th Striker by any means.
Supply Lines, Unnamed System
Deep Periphery
22nd August 3077
In a raid intent on provoking the Steel Viper Clan into a response Clan Jade Falcon sends the WarShips Jade Talon, Red Talon and Blue Talon (All Aegis-class Cruisers) supported by the Jade Aerie, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, raid a Steel Viper Convoy with orders to capture what they can and destroy the rest. The Jade Falcon fleet engages the Steel Vipers just outside the Inner Sphere six JumpShips escorted by the Pride of New Kent, a Carrack-class Military Transport, the Anaconda, a Lola III-class Destroyer, the Pit Viper, a Fredesa-class Corvette and the Sarna Mercer, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser.
During the battle the Jade Talon and Red Talon isolate the Anaconda, even the legendary capacity of the Lola III to take damage was not enough for the two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers and the vessel succumb to the weapons fire, the Pit Viper attempts to relieve its larger companion however the Corvette is no match for one Aegis let alone two. Meanwhile the Sarna Mercer is boarded by Elemental warriors from the Jade Aerie and captured, the Blue Talon crowds the Pride of New Kent into surrendering as the naval autocannons aboard the Jade Falcon vessel are primed onto all six of the JumpShips as well as the Carrack-class Transport.
With this near bloodless victory for the Jade Falcons Khan Marthe Pryde taunts Khan Brett Andrews over the HPG at the same time mentioning Grant’s Station in the Kerensky Cluster making the Steel Viper leader watch his home turf as well as his Invasion Corridor.
In System Transit, SLS Invincible
Toffen, Contested Space
Ghost Bear Dominion/Draconis Combine border
25th August 3077
Following the orders from General Amis the SLS Invincible had cut all its DropShips loose leaving the Third Sirian Lancers in the Draconis Combine and jumped back to the Ghost Bear Dominion, despite the vessel’s damaged state following the battle with the Great Bear it was still the best equipped SLDF vessel in the area.
On board the craft Commodore Benjamin White was coordinating his crew as they attempted to repair and seal off damaged systems and areas of the ship. All said and done the SLS Invincible was still in good shape despite coming up against the Ghost Bear’s Leviathan 2 and survived, but it was obvious the ship had been in a battle. “Engineering seal off level six, section sixteen and reroute through level seven.â€
“Already working on it sirâ€
“Sir, we have contact, the Lioness is burning towards us.†His helm officer said, the once thing that Benjamin had been scared of he didn’t want to confront the DCMS vessel only evacuate his people.
“Understood†he said triggering his command chair’s communications speaker “Crew, this is Commodore White, the DCS Lioness is on an intercept course with us from Toffen orbit. We will be passing them just outside the lunar orbit of the world, begin finishing up what repair work you can do and prepare this ship for combat. Allow me to leave you under no illusions if they choose to fire on us we will return fire. The 789th Striker have requested their assistance in evacuating and the Lioness’ crew have refused, if they attempt to block our path we will consider them as hostile as a Clan vessel. That is all.†He said signing off. “Bring us back to combat, get fighters ready for launch but don’t stress them unless we need to.â€
Four hours later the SLS Invincible was in visual range of the Lioness which had deployed both of its DropShips and launched its fighters. “Sir, the Lioness refuses communication, sensors show the 789th have begun their evacuation.â€
“Understood keep us on the course, weapons at stand-by stations.†White said the crew continued their monitoring as the Battle-cruiser continued forward.
“Weapon spike! We have targeting locks from the fighters, DropShips and the Lioness. They are hostile.â€
“Hell†White answered as the Lioness itself fired the first blow into the Invincible’s port side “weapon deployment Epsilon Six, fire at will.†White ordered the forward guns of the Star League vessel roared into life with Medium-class Naval Particle Cannons tearing across space impacting on a Combine Overlord-class DropShip coring the craft in an instant. The Naval lasers and conventional weapons were already engaging the aerospace contingent from the Lioness, the Lioness herself was still closing brining its own Medium Naval Particle Cannons supported by Naval Lasers as it closed White knew why. “Helm, keep us a decent distance from them, we don’t need those forward Cannons hitting us.†He said referring to the forward class-40 Naval Autocannons on the Lioness which would do serious damage to the Invincible if given a chance.
“Aye sir, beginning burn to compensate†as the Tharkad-class vessel began to turn the forward Particle cannons were silenced as the vessel’s own autocannons and the paired Heavy Naval Gauss Rifles flared to life. In the silence of space there wasn’t much to be seen from the Invincible, two flashes of light before moments of silence, seconds later two slugs impacted the front of the Lioness tearing her forward sections open with as much damage caused by the impact as anything else.
As the Invincible now was moving across the path of the Lioness when the two main guns on the York-class Destroyer fired they tore into the heavier side armour and though the hit was taken it wasn’t felt as bad. In response the Invincible had further chance to hurt the Draconis Combine vessel, Three Heavy Naval Particle Cannons fired from the port side of the Invincible like man-made lightning bolts crossing the stars. Though less impressive as in the atmosphere the Naval version of the Particle Projection Cannon was still very deadly, the whole reason the McKenna-class Battleship had been so successful in the era of the Star League. Now was no different on blast caught the Lioness on the forward armour playing off to the port side causing a minor secondary explosion, while the second tore into the side of the craft striking the cargo bay doors venting it to space while the third struck a manoeuvrable thrusters destroying it.
While the Lioness’ forward naval autocannons and now the port side weapons were striking the Invincible, the Battle-cruiser had stronger weapons and armour. The Invincible also had a more direct job - evacuate the ground troops - this fighting had distracted the Lioness allowing the 789th to head for the Jump point unmolested. Now the Invincible had to ensure they were not pursued “operations manager, send your fighters for the Jump point we’ll collect them on egress.†White ordered “weapons, I don’t want the Lioness destroyed but I don’t want them to follow us.â€
“Understood sir†the weapons manager said moments later six killer whale missiles launched from the front of the Invincible arcing away from the battle the missiles came round into the engines of the Lioness hitting two more thrusters leaving the ship with little manoeuvring or breaking the destroyer continued to fire but for the most part the Invincible could destroy it at their leisure. “If they want to recover her they probably can, but we aren’t in danger sir.â€
“Good get us out of here, all weapons to point defence, give them a good reason not to follow†White ordered his people this basically meant that all the vessel’s weapons were on defensive mode causing a wall of fire to appear around any incoming fighter or DropShip, the second Draconis Combine DropShip an Okinawa-class vessel was gutted with this fire as were several fighters as the SLDF vessel exited the system.
As the SLDF forces escaped further elements of the Eighth Bear Cuirassiers Cluster arrived to reinforce the planet’s beleaguered defenders at the same time they overran the remaining DCMS forces attempting to salvage the Lioness and captured the York-class vessel for the Ghost Bears.
Ghost Bear Counter Attack
Draconis Combine
27th August 3077
As well as reinforcing Toffen the Ghost Bear decided to punish the Draconis Combine further pushing forward with Beta, Delta and Rho Galaxies and two more WarShips supporting the Rasalhague Galaxy and the Ursla Major. Securing the Combine Worlds Mellen, Kiessen, Chandler and Nurnki. Without further DCMS troops to support them the local forces are steamrolled, the SLDF declares itself neutral and retreats whenever challenged the Ghost Bears seeing that the SLDF are as much victims as themselves allow them to retreat.
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Star League Training Range
Thorin, Thorin University
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd September 3077
Tensions on Thorin had been growing for months, the local militia had not left its base and rumour was the SLDF had placed them under house arrest with Morgan’s Lions, the First BattleMech Division of the SLDF, effectively becoming the planet’s defence force. Alongside them stood the First Thorin Training Battalion and the First Isle of Skye Training Battalion unfortunately neither was tested in battle and neither unit liked each other.
Though under escort of SLDF Instructors and a company from the Morgan’s Lions the two forces came to blows on one of the Training ranges adjacent to the University of Thorin with both sides using live weapons on each other. Star League personnel risking their own lives are forced to intervene in the battle fortunately no-one is killed however the situation remains tense on the planet, the SLDF forces continue to take up more planetary defence duties with Commanding General Archer Christifori and General Vladimir Rostov both becoming involved in meetings with the local leaders.
Pirate Point
Bad News, Raven Alliance
18th September 3077
Furthering their goals to destabilize the Draconis Combine and weaken Kurita line the Black Dragon Society sends the DCS Theodore, a Kirishima-class Cruiser, carrying three DropShips into the Bad News system first destroying the local recharge station before releasing three DropShips and jumping clear of the system.
The three DropShips begin to head in system, predictably the Snow Raven vessel Eternity jumps to one of the system’s pirate points in an attempt to stop the DropShips unfortunately the Draconis Combine vessel’s have a solution to this as one of the DropShips launches a brace of nuclear-tipped missiles at the Eternity, two of the missiles are destroyed however a third strikes the craft and the resulting explosion wipes out the DropShip and the Essex-class Destroyer Eternity.
The two other DropShips continue in system. Within hours the Snow Ravens have dispatched another WarShip to the two incoming DropShips this vessel the Bloody Talon, a Lola III-class Destroyer, puts up a massive ECM bubble in the path of the two craft along with a heavy anti-fighter/DropShip screen of weapons fire the second DropShip is torn to pieces by the barrage attempting to use the same tactic on the Bloody Talon as on the Eternity however the third DropShip, an ancient Dictator-class vessel is able to make a landing on Bad News deploying three companies of Ronin Draconis Combine warriors, fighting without a care or a home these warriors wear almost every regimental badge ever worn by the DCMS and cause nearly five thousand casualties on the planet before the Fifth Raven Wing Cluster is able to put them down without a single survivor.
Colonel’s Meeting, Nortwind Highlanders
The Fort, Northwind
Star League Protectorate
21st September 3077
Following years of service Colonel Andrea "The Cat" Stirling retires from command of Stirling's Fusiliers, Northwind Highlanders Brigade. The Sterling’s Fusiliers had just completed a contract with the Star League Protectorate shoring up defences teaching locals how to defend their worlds and showing the flag for the SLDF. At a final meeting with the other Colonels of the Northwind Highlanders she urges them to raise more Ghurkha units to help combat the Clan threat and to bolster the Northwind Highlanders size and capabilities, she also urges them not to rest on the laurels and accomplishments of those that had come before them and push the Brigade into the next century. She passes command over to her long serving XO Alice Roberts.
Ghost Bear Counter Attack
Suladal, Buckminster Prefecture
Draconis Combine
25th September 3077
Continuing to punish the Draconis Combine for its attacks against their Dominion the Ghost Bear Clan continue their assault deeper into the Buckminster Prefecture arriving at Suladal with elements of Rho Galaxy escorted by the WarShip Exodus Crusader. For the first time in the campaign however the Draconis Combine is ready for the counter attack and the Dedication to Duty has been secreted away in the system, the Tatsumaki-class Destroyer reveals itself only after the Ghost Bears have detached themselves from the JumpShips and along with an assault squadron of DropShips and several wings worth of fighters the Combine force approaches.
Before the crew of the Exodus Crusader can react to the presence of this defensive force naval weapons fire and capital missiles strike several of the Rho Galaxy DropShips shattering them effectively destroying the 300th Battle Cluster.
Knowing they cannot retreat without loosing more of the ground forces and more of their honour the Exodus Crusader charges headlong at the Draconis Combine vessel hoping to bring the York-class Destroyer’s Autocannons into play. Unfortunately the Tatsumaki-class was built to be an infighter and with DropShip support the Ghost Bear vessel is soon destroyed, this sacrifice allows the remains of Rho Galaxy to retreat however Draconis Combine marines are able to capture two Broadsword-class DropShips and their contents of ten OmniMechs before the JumpShips escape.
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Snow Raven Assaults
Kaznejoy Prefecture, Draconis Combine
3rd October 3077
As it is clear the Draconis Combine cannot control its military and that the military itself was without honour the Snow Ravens choose to punish the Draconis Combine Declaring outright war on the Successor State as a Periphery State. No Batchalls will be issued through the course of the conflict - it is effectively a Trial of Annihilation to appease the Snow Raven Touman who are still angry at the loss of the White Cloud.
Landing troops on Valantina, Weisau and Delacruz the Snow Raven and Outworlds Alliance troops go to work trying to isolate the defenders. In the Valantina system the WarShip Hunter, a Lola III-class Destroyer, escorting the First Raven Phalanx, the First Avellar Guard Cluster and the Second Alliance Air Wing find the DCS Theodore in the system taking supplies from the Second and Forty-second District of Galedon Regulars. Knowing it was this ship that delivered the troops to Bad News the Hunter and the Second Alliance Air Wing make short work of the Theodore giving the cruiser little chance with fast passes from the fighters followed with heavy firepower from the Destroyer. On the ground the numerically inferior but better experienced Clan/Periphery forces assault the two regulars forces pounding both regiments for three days before the DCMS commander requests and surprisingly is given Hegira by the Snow Raven commander.
At the same time as the Valantina attack the Snow Ravens push the DCMS smashing deeper into the Galedon district landing on Weisau. With the Lord Death, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, in support the One hundred-and-first Raven Battle Cluster, of Beta Galaxy, formed six months before land on the ground with no opposition from the regional militia and a company sized mercenary band. Star Colonel Henry meets with the planetary governor and explains if they do not surrender arms to the Clan force they will be wiped out, the Governor agrees ordering the mercenaries off world before he surrenders ensuring the Clan force does not target them as dezgra, an uncharacteristic move from the Combine leader but then this was proving to be an uncharacteristic war.
The three other clusters of Beta Galaxy have a stronger fight planned for them as they land on Delacruz to find these troops have been recalled to protect the more strategically important world of Kesai VI, so much is the DCMS afraid of having three worlds cut off by the Snow Raven advance.
Governor’s residence
Kesai VI, Kaznejoy Prefecture
Draconis Combine
5th October 3077
The World of Kesai VI was becoming steadily isolated by the Snow Raven assaults the on planet defence force was becoming more and more nervous as was the small civilian population. After a full day of trying to calm the people Martin Reynolds retreated to his residence on the hill beside the capital, the heat was baking and Reynolds wondered what he’d done wrong to be exiled to this barren rock, along with almost all his family. Even his brother who had nothing to do with politics had recently been sent here to work in the spaceport, Reynolds had annoyed someone but he didn't know who.
Something was not right, the air felt wrong, Martin had been a member of the DCMS during the Fourth Succession War and during the War of 39 he’d never done anything massive but he’d kept himself, his squad and many others alive by his sense of what was right and wrong. Tonight felt completely wrong. “If you are here to kill me, get it over with. I cannot stop the Snow Ravens, nor can I right any wrong I have done to you.†he said out aloud, a figure rose from behind his small office desk.
“Governor unlike the rest of this wrenched world I do now want you to stop the Clans for me, I want to stop them for you.†Martin could see that the man was dressed in a stealth sneak suit of some type and that he made not a single sound when he moved obviously someone of a decent amount of training .
“No offence to the man who does not want to be seen but how can you stop the Clans?â€
“Our organisation has links to other sources with forces that could put enough forces out to stop the Snow Raven Clan in its tracks, at least for now.â€
“We cannot afford mercenary forces all our funds are tied up in state affairs.†he said immediately for the fifth time today a mercenary wanted a job. “Unless you have WarShips then it would be a fools errand anyway" he said quietly realizing what the figure had meant "you want me to betray my nation to another?â€
“We are all part of the Star League Governor, my nation just has more assets to spare than yours. Convince the local defenders they don’t want to be here and that you need outside protection and we will be here. My people will move in under an agreement that we will be peacekeepers. If our stay has to be permanent then so be it, I’m sure your government, my own and the Star League Council will agree. During the tenure of your new landlords you and your family will be well looked after, and transported off world if that is your choice.â€
“If this is discovered, we’re dead“
“More to the point you’re dead, I was never here, good night Governor.†The figure said before disappearing into the darkness of the house.
DCMS Fortifications District Command
New Samarkand, District of Galedon
Draconis Combine
6th October 3077
The defeated Second and Forty-second District of Galedon Regulars arrive back on New Samarkand following the push by Snow Raven forces on Valantina. Despite the larger amount of survivors from the Forty-second the New Samarkand commanders choose to disband the regiment along with the Second Regulars Regiment instead forming the First District of Midway Regulars in their place from the survivors of the two regiments. The troops are unhappy with this choice and confused that New Samarkand would be naming the regiments from another district, creating something that does not exist.
Snow Raven Assault
Nile, Galedon Military District
Draconis Combine
7th October 3077
Following three victories for Snow Raven forces the Clan leaders turned to their periphery allies, offering them a chance of retribution against the Combine. The Outworlds had lost many civilians on Bad News after consulting with the commanders the Outworlds government agreed. The world of Nile was chosen as the Outworlds target, home to the Veteran Seventh Sword of Light Regiment.
Inside the Nile system they found little troubles as the First Long Road Legion Regiment supported by two newly formed 'Support' Battalions of Clan freeborn troopers and local graduates and by the Second Avellar Guard Cluster landed, on the world they found no resistance at the landing zones. Intent on keeping this as the case the First Long Road ordered the Third Alliance Air Wing pilots to destroy transport and communication facilities across the world intent on keeping the DCMS completely in the dark, much to the confusion of the Clansmen that had accompanied them, they always preferred a straight fight. With the initial operations clear the Snow Raven warrior and technology heavy Second Avellar Guard agreed to remain at the landing zone allowing the Outworlds troops to fight their own war.
In the initial hour the Long Road took heavy casualties however the Sword of Light had lost three key locations in and around the capital. With the Third Alliance Air Wing now bombing the command complexes in the capital causing heavy damage. Unwilling to allow this to continue longer than necessary the First Long Road Legion commanders released the Second Avellar from the landing zone defences. The wound up Clansmen charged straight at the DCMS troops, a credit to the training of the Sword of Light was they kept together fighting back-to-back as they retreated to their DropShips under some of the heaviest fighting in the entire conflict the Seventh began boosting from the world, the Third Alliance fighters were unfortunately refuelling at the time of the Seventh's retreat which likely saved the Regiment's life.
The next day the Alliance Borderers Regiment of the Outworlds Alliance land on Grovekl III expecting a similar battle as the First Long Road, they find the DCMS have completely abandoned the world.
Disputed Space
Kesai VI, Galedon Military District
Draconis Combine/Federated Suns border
10th October 3077
To add insult to injury for the DCMS the FSS William Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser, and the First Robinson Rangers RCT Commanded by Duke Tarncred Sandoval, head of the Federated Suns Draconis March, arrive in the Kesai VI system as peacekeepers. The planetary Governor Martin Reynolds informs the DCMS that they have been called in to support the DCMS, in defending the people from the Snow Ravens, and keep the peace following several riots that have left several hundred dead. The DCMS commander of the Fourth Arkab Legion Tai-sa Jabal Sharief informs him he has betrayed the Draconis Combine and shoots him in the head immediately sending the regiments air wing and six brand-new Nekohono'o Assault DropShips to repulse the AFFS troops.
The William Davion responds launching three Overlord A3 Assault Ships and a pristine Titan-class Carrier along with three aerospace wings against the DCMS troops resulting in a brief space conflict. The DCMS DropShips attempt to ignore the WarShip and her escorts and attack the Robinson Rangers destroying five vessels including a Fortress, a pair of Leopards, a Gazelle and a Union hurting the Rangers ground forces but being decimated themselves by the AFFS Naval force.
On the ground the weakened but not crippled First Robinson fight the Fourth Arkab into the deserts of Kesai VI leaving them to the wastes for three days. Cut off from their supply bases the Fourth Arkab return to the capital with a portion of their force, most of their other troops cannibalised to keep their remaining forces operational two Battalions.
After a brief fight Duke Sandoval offers to allow the DCMS troops off world claiming he never wanted a fight and that his people are here as peace-keepers they agree at the cost of a company of OmniMechs of the Duke's choosing, the Fourth Arkab call for transport and are evacuated to New Samarkand where the commander is Jabal Sharief is executed for not catching the governor’s betrayal sooner, the Fourth Arkab Legion find themselves at the end of a very long refit request form. The Draconis Combine lodge a formal complaint with the Star League Council about the conduct of the AFFS troops and the Federated Suns Nobility, the SLDF agree to send observers to the world to ensure the peacekeepers were doing exactly that. These berserkers would be accompanied by troops from the First Special Operations Ground, First Special Operations Battle Armour Battalion and would arrive on planet towards the end of the month.
Nock Engineering Inc Training Ranges
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
19th October 3077
Following months of delay the first Successful flight of the F-302 and F-302/A Vanguard aerospace fighters in front of AFFS Marshals the fighters created by Nock Engineering Inc are the companies their first aerospace fighters and are a resounding success piloted by Leftenant-Colonel Cameron Mitchell an AFFS veteran pilot. The sixty-five ton design impresses the AFFS Quartermasters who order one hundred of each design.
Clan Training Ranges
Mortiz, Clan Wolf Territory
Clan Occupation Zone, Inner Sphere
21st October 3077
The Clan Wolf training base on Mortiz is razed to the ground with three hundred-and-two deaths no survivors. None of the destroyed training Mechs are salvaged though each is rendered useless in any use other than salvage or scrap, surviving gun camera footage shows that twelve Mechs attacks each was painted black-and-red, each wore a red bloodied hand and six of the Mechs were of unknown design - the others Star League vintage carrying alternate/largely experimental weapons configurations. A Clan Observation satellite shows a modified Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser collecting the single Union-class DropShip from the planet shortly after contact was lost with the base the vessel jumps clear before it can be identified.
DCMS Counter Strike
Orbit Alshain System,
Ghost Bear Dominion
30th October 3077
Following the Star League Defence Forces peace accords with the Ghost Bear Dominion the day before the Draconis Combine commanders decide to test the Ghost Bears resolve by upping the stakes launching a deep strike against Alshain, the bears capital. This attack is not aimed at the planet instead attacking the Great Bear, one of only three Leviathan 2-class Battleships in existence, which is under repair at the orbiting shipyard, the vessel lacks good portions of armour and port weapons giving the DCMS Admiralty the incentive.
For this operation the DCMS Admiralty task the DCS Nagato, a Yamato-class Battleship weighing in more than a million tonnes and fresh from the New Samarkand Ship Yards, along with the DCS Victory at Walcott, DCS Dieron Star, two Kyushu-class Frigates, the DCS Tomoe, a Kirishima-class Cruiser, and the Order of the Five Pillars, one of the Draconis Combine’s few remaining Tatsumaki-class Destroyers. This massive naval armada is the largest raised by the Draconis Combine since the Succession Wars and it is supported by nineteen Assault DropShips and nearly three hundred aerospace fighters assault the Great Bear.
Jumping in system the Combine forces detect the Great Bear moving clear of the shipyards soon after engaging them just beyond lunar orbit. The massive Leviathan, the largest warship ever designed and built by man makes quick work of the Tomoe which had been ahead of the other craft escorting the assault DropShips. The Great Bear goes to great lengths eliminating the DropShips and fighters that had been escorting the Kirishima-class Cruiser while the Nagato remains at range. A second bear force lifts from the moon base attempting to encircle the DCMS forces the Order of the Five pillars falls back to engage them while the DCS Victory at Walcott and the Dieron Star close in on either flank of the Leviathan intent on overwhelming the vessel’s own cooling system by giving it multiple targets at once. Though this is a valiant attempt these two craft take heavy damage and are eventually destroyed caught in broadside after broadside from the Great Bear the Clan ship focusing on one ship then the other.
Reduced to two WarShips and five Pocket WarShips the DCMS force continuously engage the Great Bear focusing all their remaining firepower on the Great Bear’s battered nose and port side. Luck became heavily involved in the DCMS forces survival as the Great Bear suffered three internal explosions following hits from the Pocket WarShips capital missiles and the Nagato’s fire. Then with one last concentrated volley from almost the entire DCMS force the Great Bear’s nose splits and is replaced by fire as the massive ship burns its final breath and die. The DCMS force including the Nagato, the Order of Five pillars, two DropShips and thirty-one fighters limp to the nearest pirate point and are able to jump clear of the system before further Ghost Bear forces can arrive.
The Draconis Combine have given the Ghost Bear Dominion another bloody nose, one that actually hurt this time hoping to stem the Ghost Bear conflict before it gets out of control. The Ghost Bear is now awake to the Combine's threat.
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The Black Dragons are causing much trouble for the Dracs along with I suspect Clan Wolverine forces with the Crusader Clan Wolf
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The Black Dragons are causing much trouble for the Dracs along with I suspect Clan Wolverine forces with the Crusader Clan Wolf
Certainly Knightmare's friends are causing trouble for the Wolves. The Wolverines may be further away...
Here's more
Parade Ground, The Fort
Ecol City, Thorin
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd November 3077
Though the arrival of the Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser LCS Yggdrasil in the system had tipped many off that something was going on. The arrival of a single Union-class DropShip had passed as if nothing had happened, few expected something important from such a common transport, the march of four Lyran Assault BattleMechs down the central street of Ecol City to the Star League Controlled Fort facility equally passed, people had grown used to the sight of BattleMechs on their streets from the times of the Federated Commonwealth. Now with the Star League so invested in the world they were a common sight.
The presence of Lyran Mechs in the city was a small oddity since the local militia had refused to leave their barracks in over a month and the First Royal BattleMech Regiment had taken over all their duties. Standing in The Fort’s courtyard stood Commanding-General Archer Christifori wearing full dress Star League uniform including ever decoration earned from his Federated Commonwealth and from Star League service. As the Mechs shut down a single warrior dropped to the ground on a chain link ladder and approached wearing a simple pale blue Jumpsuit “General, should we talk as we walk?†Archon Peter Steiner-Davion said as he walked into The Fort’s main corridors leading straight to Archer’s office.
“As you wish Sire†Archer said respectfully falling into step with him. “Sire, as I’m sure you are aware we have disarmed the local militia following their recent confiding in us of their involvement in the Coventry Attack.
“Which is still to be confirmed or fully investigated by Lyran Intelligence.â€
“We have done a full investigation sire, including utilising agents on Coventry and on the Clan border. Sir, they are telling the truth it was two enlisted men, no family on Thorin little previous Lyran or Federated Commonwealth military experience.â€
“Fine, so they acted alone, it is still true that they were the breeding ground for two terrorist attacks on Lyran soil. Democracy Now has been playing this up for weeks I need answers and solutions, Archer, I will not allow this organisation to gain any prominence in my realm.â€
“How about exile for the entire unit?†Archer asked as they entered his small office, Peter looked at him quizzically. “The entire unit is transferred to Star League command or cashiered out of Lyran service, my family’s business here on Thorin would take plenty my sister wants to recruit and she wants trained Lyrans to be her new workforce.â€
“That’s a can of worms isn’t it what if they turn out to be trouble makers? Your business interests and the SLDF could come into disrepute.
“These troops will not be in your realm they will be on Kittery for at least three years getting trained by the instructors who used to train the Eridani Light Horse and the Northwind Highlanders.†Peter looked surprised though Archer didn’t go into more details the Eridani had joined the SLDF wholesale but the Highlanders were still very much independent despite their historical links to the Star League and to Terra. “If we have problems with them, well the Martian facilities still need workers as does those on Venus.†Archer said naming two of the worse places in the Terran system Peter involuntarily shuddered the Star League was growing stronger by the day and they had direction especially from the likes of Archer Christifori, Morgan Hasek-Davion had left the new born SLDF in a very strong position for its future.
“Ok so they leave, your family’s business will be under a microscope for a while but I’ll ensure they aren’t interfered with and the Star League begins another expansion.â€
“Only one that is required Archon, the Star League has to prove it is a force that plans to stay, with more units requires more personnel. These militia troops are unwanted by you or your government, we can use them, rehabilitate if need be and similarly cast aside if it comes to that. Allow us to take you burden away and it saves you the bother of dealing with them.â€
“Commanding-General, I admire your loyalty to these sons and daughters of Thorin.†Peter said Archer opened his mouth to complain but Peter silenced him by raising to his feet “but I can also see that this move is for the best interests of the Star League. And you are correct Archer, the Star League is here to stay†Peter said, from the tone Archer wasn’t sure if the Archon was happy with this or not despite his use of Archer’s name “just let it be known that though the SLDF may be increasing in size and capability they are also under our eye and at the service of its members, something one Commanding-General forgot and the Inner Sphere paid for it then and two hundred years later. I do not want to see another set of Clans in the future.†Peter warned extending his hand to Archer shaking it.
“That won’t happen, Sire, I remember where I come from and I wouldn’t give it up.â€
“Very good, I’ll have the papers drawn up and on your very desk by the break of morning, and I will forward a report to the Council of this development.â€
“Thank you, Archonâ€
“And you General, now I’m off to New Avalon, so I’ll wish you good fortune and take my leave†the Archon said saluting, Archer returned the salute. “Not to worry, I know my way, good day General.â€
Snow Raven Trade Convoy
Deep Periphery
Coreward Draconis Combine
5th November 3077
The Scabbard, one of Clan Snow Raven’s many Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, had been tasked with escorting a group of JumpShips to the Outworlds Alliance as the Clan moved more of its military assets to the Inner Sphere and Periphery. So far it had been a completely uneventful trip and the commander of the Scabbard was getting tired of the inconsistency of his merchant caste companions.
As the Scabbard emerged from another jump he was about ready to call for a stand down from general stations when his sensor operator shouted a warning, moments later the Scabbard was hit amidships by a heavy naval particle cannon. One of the attached DropShips the Scabbard was carrying was destroyed in the initial hit. Moments later the Scabbard was coming under increasing fire from an emerging WarShip, which was soon identified as the DCS Lyon’s Thumb, a Draconis Combine registered Kyushu-class Frigate, the Scabbard was outgunned and already under increasing fire.
Ordering the DropShips to scatter the Scabbard turned into the fire as heavy naval autocannons and lasers slashed into their armour plating. The JumpShips were beginning to spool up their Jump Engines when two fighter wings and several DropShips appeared from behind the Scabbard and its protected DropShips though the Void, a Snow Raven Carrack-class Armed Transport, tried to fend off further attack it was not possible three DropShips and their attending JumpShip were wiped out in a second effectively destroying the Sixth Raven Auxiliaries Cluster of Delta Galaxy.
Knowing that there is no way to survive the battle but that the ground troops and their DropShips were more important the Scabbard ignored fire from the Lyon’s Thumb instead turning her guns on the aerospace fighters and their attending DropShips buying enough time for the Void and three remaining JumpShips to jump away doing so however exposed her already damaged amidships to the incoming Lyon’s Thumb constant autocannon and laser volleys penetrated the armour and almost literally cut the WarShip in half.
Steel Viper Occupation Zone
Kolovraty, Pangkalan, Annazuita
Inner Sphere
9th November 3077
Tired of the Steel Vipers Occupation Zone at their backs the Jade Falcons launch an attack on Kolovraty, Pangkalan and Annazuita all within the Steel Viper Occupation Zone intent on splitting the Steel Vipers Occupation Zone and sending them screaming back to the Clan Homeworlds for the second time.
Forcing themselves onto Kolovraty they suffer only light damage with no major naval forces in system and a simple honourable trial on the planet. Pangkalan is not so easy in space the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Hawk Eye is heavily damage fighting the Steel Python, a Steel Viper Aegis-class vessel, both craft are forced to retreat from battle returning to the Clan Homeworlds. On the ground the casualties are light with a simple trial.
On Annazuita casualties are far higher with the Serpents, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, under Steel Viper flag is drafted to front line service and ordered to gun down the Jade Falcons in space. The First Falcon Jaegers Cluster are destroyed in space and the Falcon Guards Cluster are heavily damaged. The Steel Vipers continue to hold the world.
FSS Fire Fang, Whirlwind-class Destroyer, Command Deck
Terra System, Star League Protectorate
14th November 3077
“Ground Control, this is the FSS Fire Fang, we are ready to jump, at your command.†Major Nathan Heaps said floating just above the communications console which was a mesh of Star League, Federated Suns, ComStar and Clan equipment noting the ships many owners.
“Houston, Fire Fang, we have you on scope, all local traffic have been cleared, Jump in your own time. Safe journey Major.“
“Thank you Houston, you’ve been wonderful hosts, it’s time for us to go home.†Nathan said communicating with the Terran based controllers the Terran and Star League people and officers had been very accommodating of the Fire Fang’s refit team and the Intrepid’s guard force with generous allowances of shore leave and replacement expendables. The crews working on the two Federated Suns WarShips had lived well and been able to not bankrupt the Federated Suns doing it. Signing off Nathan changed the communication channel.
“Intrepid, Fire Fang, we jump then fifteen seconds later you follow copy and confirm.†He said
“Fire Fang, Intrepid, copied and confirmed on your count Major.†the Intrepid’s communication officer said, moments later the Fire Fang’s jump computer began counting down. “In five, four, three, good bye Terra and Jump!†He triumphantly announced as the space around the Fire Fang seemed to warp around the vessel into the ship and its crew and then completely backwards again launching the vessel twenty-light years nowhere near maximum range but enough for a test. Moments later the FSS Intrepid carrying the majority of the engineering teams and their five Tug-class DropShips also jumped joining the Fire Fang in an uninhabited system they were on their way.
Davion Royal Palace, Throne Room
Avalon City, Mount Davion
New Avalon, Federated Suns
28th November 3077
While most people were unaware New Avalon paid host to some very special guests. In planetary orbit sat the LCS Yggdrasil, the mighty Lyran Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser, beside it sat the smaller but equally impressive FSS Lucian Davion, one of the Federated Suns premier Avalon-class Cruisers. Close to these two vessels were two more equally impressive vessels but belonged to neither succession nation. The first was the mighty round armoured Severn Leroux, the Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser that was Clan Nova Cat's flagship. Beside this vessel was the spinier Nagasawa a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser recently upgraded to the "Dire Wolf†Configuration.
Unfortunately this was one of the times Khan Canin Rosse was not with his troops instead he and Hanna Coston, the Khan of Clan Sea Fox had been summoned to the Davion Royal Palace. There in the throne room instead of finding Victor Steiner-Davion, First Prince of the Federated Suns, they found Peter Steiner-Davion, the Archon of the Lyran Commonwealth, and instead of the Sword and Sunburst emblem they found the chain mailed fist of the Lyran realm. For today and today only New Avalon, and the Davion Royal Palace, were Lyran holdings sovereign territory of the Steiner family.
“Khans of Kerensky’s Nova Cats and Sea Foxes, I welcome you to New Avalon and extend my thanks. People of your Clans have put aside the adversity of growing up in different cultures and in different areas of space. And against the Crusader mentality of other Clans, to save my daughter’s life and I am very happy with your results.†He said raising from the throne “because of their efforts, under your direction, my daughter should lead a healthy and long life just like everyone else. Because of this I would like to offer both you Clans the right of SafCon throughout my realm. Your merchants, but not your armies, will be welcome to travel and trade throughout the Lyran Commonwealth. If this is abused to attack your enemies or if you violate local laws while in my realm there will be penalties however I believe you can both see the advantages of this mutually beneficial offer.â€
“Archon, on behalf of Clan Nova Cat, I will accept your terms however if we are attacked or challenged by any of your people we will reserve the rights to defend ourselves and if we lose people or equipment to subterfuge we will react.†Canin Rosse warned, what the Archon had offered was a great thing but he’d defend the Nova Cats before accepting any terms.
“I will also accept these terms laid out by the Nova Cat Khan, Clan Sea Fox is spread out now and we do not take kindly to being miss treated by our trading partners. The Capellans have already learned this mistake on Sarna I hope your people do not have to be taught the same lesson.â€
“Then with your terms as Archon of the Lyran Commonwealth of Nations I welcome your merchants to trade against the best the Inner Sphere has to offer.†Peter said descending shaking each Khan’s hand once. “Now that is officially over I’d like to personally thank each of you for providing the resources required for this day to happen. From one man very happy to be still able to enjoy looking forward to his child growing up.†Peter said fighting back the tears of joy which had already taken over him today more than once.
“It was approached like any other deal, now if you would excuse me, my people are ready to leave Khan Rosse.†She said saluting the Nova Cat leader who returned the salute with a deep nod.
“Khan Coston†Canin said quietly as she turned and left the throne room, Victor Steiner-Davion appeared from behind the throne as they head the Sea Fox Khan’s boots click all their way out onto the courtyards.
“Perhaps not as enlightened as we had hoped?†Peter pondered as she left.
“Enlightened enough to trade with you Archon, instead of shooting you. You appealed to her wallet always a good strategy with the Sea Fox Clan.†Canin said in answer “I should also go, we are rearming the Forty-fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers Cluster and changing over some personnel in the New Scotland region.â€
“Khan, I wondered if you would like to stay on New Avalon for a spell. I had hoped you had received my communiqué regarding the invitation of your family.†Victor said descending to join his brother and the Nova Cat Khan, Victor was now the shortest but he had never let his size keep him from being the man and the leader he was today.
“I did, however my affairs must be in Clan Nova Cat’s best interest, I am not sure if remaining here for longer than is necessary is in my Clan’s best interest.â€
“Ah, I see, perhaps it is for the best then.†Victor said disappointed, he’d hoped that the Nova Cat Khan would have taken his sister back to New Avalon and perhaps lightened up a little but perhaps it was too much to hope fore, still Peter and his family were here and they would be staying for a while at least until Melinda was well enough to travel.
“However, my troops especially those of Sigma Galaxy which has accompanied me would like to test themselves against some line units of the Federated Suns and perhaps the Lyran Commonwealth, if the Archon would permit it. Perhaps I could suggest a time of Trials and training that all our warriors could benefit from, with powered down weaponry obviously to ensure no untimely deaths.â€
“That sounds reasonable my people always like a test against the Clans especially a non-lethal one, Victor?†Peter said smiling looking at his elder brother.
“Yes Victor, listen to the man, he is normally right†another voice, this one female said from behind them both Steiner-Davion brothers turned together to see Yvonne Nova Cat (Steiner-Davion) sitting cross legged on the Federated Suns throne. “To be honest I’m not entirely certain I like the new décor in here either†she said smiling beside her stood her eleven year old son Grayson and her nine year old Sonja who flanked the throne. As tears swelled in both brother’s eyes Yvonne rose to her feet “I know just how to fix this. Nova Cats Rise!†she shouted putting both brothers on alert as two Elementals replaced the Steiner Royal Guards behind the throne, and three more appeared at the door all dressed in full battle armour painted in black and blue. Yvonne smiled as she walked down the steps around her stunned brothers “It appears I still have some pull on this planet, but wait there's one other small thing†she said clicking her fingers above the Davion throne the Steiner mail fist fell to be replaced by the roaring sunburst insignia of the Nova Cats.
Though Peter saw the funnier side of it and hugged his sister Victor looked more annoyed than anything else “How the hell did you do that?â€
“I know the right people†Yvonne answered cryptically
“Danai…†Victor muttered knowing his wife would have had something to do with it. Reunited with his younger sister Danai would be very pleased indeed.
“I never give up my sourcesâ€
“I suggest you give up, First Prince Davion†Canin offered knowing the answer though he was leader of the Nova Cats and held power over all in the Nova Cat’s Den and for Clan Nova Cat he knew better than to try and argue with Yvonne especially when she was on a roll.
“Well I suppose we’ll give the mighty First Prince at least an incline of how I did it, Ladies if you please!†Yvonne said raising her voice from two side entrances came Danai Centrella-Davion and Isis Steiner who joined their husbands in the small gathering “It helps to know the right people.†Yvonne said causing a chuckle from almost all in the group. Standing still at the throne however both Grayson and Sonja looked more confused than anything, Canin as their father and their Khan had realized that and remained in his leader roll for at least a couple of moments.
“First Prince Davion, Archon Steiner, please allow me to introduce two of my Clan’s most important ristars, to me anyway, Grayson and Sonja Nova Cat.†Both Victor and Peter with full military baring saluted the two children who returned their salutes with curt nods. Soon Victor and Peter were lost in conversation with Yvonne, after several years apart Canin spoke to the two children in a hushed voice “over the time we are here, I want you both to enjoy yourself but remember you are members of our Clan as well as part of this group. These people are our allies and potential enemies be on your guard.†Grayson gave his father a confident stare and slight smirk while Sonja was more lost by the presence of everyone in the room suddenly it was if her world had been opened up to far more possibilities and challenges.
-
Open Ground, Coast of Loch Arthur
New Scotland, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th December 3077
For one battle only the Federated Commonwealth was reborn First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion sat in his Dire Wolf, Prometheus, for the first time in several months, and it felt very good. Beside him stood Archon Peter Steiner-Davion piloting his own FNR-6X Fafnir Assault BattleMech behind them was an entire combined arms Regimental Brigade taken from both the First Lyran Royal Guards RCT and the First Davion Guards RCT, the two honour guard regiments of the participating nations. Across the field of battle stood the forces of Clan Nova Cat’s Sigma Galaxy augmented by the warriors of the Forty-Fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers Cluster, the local liaison force.
In this area where snow lay on the ground nearly all year round on the coast of Loch Arthur Victor decided to begin the proceedings opening a communication channel to all involved, in a transition that would eventually be transmitted throughout the Federated Suns and to the wider Inner Sphere. “I First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion joined with my brother Archon Peter Steiner-Davion in this battle. Together as the Federated Commonwealth takes to the field one last time. My father formed that nation to ensure the people both Federated and Lyran prospered in a better future, unfortunately time would not continue for the united Commonwealth. Instead my brother and I stand as allies today against a force of Clan Nova Cat warriors who are residing on this frozen continent. Today we fight as one force, Clansmen I challenge you to show us your best.†He said anyone within one hundred kilometres would have been able to hear it, although both sides were using under-powered rounds and paint shells their Battle computers would register them as if they were real, this was going to be an interesting fight.
On the other side of battle Khan Canin Rosse sat at the front of the Nova Cat force behind him in his Dragon Cat, he’d been surprised to find the Forty-Fourth Cavaliers now fielded several Federated Suns OmniMech designs, Star Colonel Cassin Drummond had explained that they had won them from several different Federated Suns Regiments they had fought against which he could accept in the Nova Cat’s Den the Second Watch Cluster fielded almost exclusively Inner Sphere Mechs captured by the Nova Cats. Hearing Victor’s challenge Canin answered it “I Khan Canin Rosse, leader of Clan Nova Cat and of Sigma Galaxy, answer your challenge First Prince Davion. Fight bravely for you will need it against my Clusters. All Nova Cats advance!†He said he’d already ordered all his Nova Cats to fight honourably unless the Inner Sphere forces decided to break the rules of Zellbrigen.
As the Nova Cats began move Victor saw Peter’s Mech step forward, when Victor had first seen the monster his brother piloted he’d not known what to think. It had started as a Standard Fafnir Assault Mech however the Lyran engineers had gone a little overboard with their work, the two ‘Hammerfist’ Heavy Gauss Rifles had been upgraded to the new Improved version of the weapon which did a lot more damage for a little more tonnage. The lasers had all been removed as had the Guardian ECM Suite and replaced with a pair of Extended-Range Medium Lasers in the centre torso one above the other and one each in the arms, the Fafnir’s arms themselves had been fully removed and replaced with large muscular arms that extended far further than the shoulder stumps the original Mech carried this would improve the Mech’s balance and give it the opportunity to do physical attacks and carry Hand-held weapons. Which is exactly what Peter had chosen to do, between the two massive arms, held like a massive Mini-Gun on the Fafnir’s left side, the Fafnir held a Rotary Autocannon though only a light version of the weapon its damage potential was not to be argued with.
Because of his weapons shorter range than Victor’s Peter took a few steps forward and then let rip with the Mech’s Rotary Autocannon using full automatic fire for the weapon. The barrels spun and a stream of lead momentarily connected the Fafnir to a Nova Cat Summoner tearing into the heavy OmniMech’s upper torso tracing up towards the shoulder mounted missile launcher. The Nova Cat Mech looked momentarily stunned before returning fire with a single Particle Cannon, the lightning bolt struck Peter’s Mech on the left side Victor’s Mech’s sensors registered only a small amount of armour damage then Victor remembered Peter’s Mech also carried Hardened Armour which allowed his Mech to soak up far more damage than a regular Mech Peter used this extra surprise to launch a Improved Gauss slug into the advancing Clan Mech, the slug caught the Summoner low taking the pilot by surprise at the ferocity of the hit knocking the Mech to the ground it didn’t get back up - one down.
On the Nova Cat side Canin Rosse watched the Lyran Archon’s Monster put one of his Mechs down hard and knew that the Mech which read as a modified Fafnir needed to go down, quickly. As a result he targeted it with his primary weapon and let loose from the left arm the Heavy (Hyper) Assault Gauss Rifle struck out at the Fafnir the class-30 weapon fired a constant stream of gauss slugs into the Clan Mech cutting armour off the left arm and torso but with no armour penetration, now Canin would be the Archon’s target as per Clan engagement rules. Across the battlefield Nova Cats and Inner Sphere troops were engaging the Inner Sphere force a brand-new Nova Cat Sphinx BattleMech charged forward engaging Victor Davion’s Dire Wolf, a brave thing for a seventy-five ton Mech. Meanwhile Canin sidestepped another stream of rotary autocannon from Peter Steiner’s Fafnir cutting loose with another Heavy Assault Gauss barrage of his own, he saw several of the slugs strike the Fafnir’s head but was shocked when the simulated damage was nearly completely shrugged off by the Mech. Now Peter fired both of his own Improved Heavy Gauss Rifles one struck the Dragon Cat just below the left leg's hip smashing armour damaging the knee actuator, Canin checked his range to the Fafnir then double checked the damage, if it had hit the Dragon Cat’s arm it could have ripped it off.
Victor was fighting his Mech to keep track of the fast moving Sphinx it was obviously a new Nova Cat design built on a heavy chassis so far Victor knew it was capable of speeds reaching nearly ninety kilometres per hour and carried lasers as its primary armament. So far the Sphinx had hit the Dire Wolf’s left leg and arm luckily causing no major damage. Twisting his Mech’s torso at the waist he tracked the Sphinx with his Ultra Autocannon, the assault-class weapon tore into the Nova Cat Mech’s right torso and right leg causing the heavy Mech to stumble slightly but it remained standing. Now in firing position itself the Sphinx’s pilot triggered all the Mech’s weapons ten Extended-Range Medium Lasers and two Extended Range Large Lasers struck out at Victor’s Prometheus, the armour loss was staggering as eight of the mediums and one of the larger weapons his the Dire Wolf but Victor ignored the Sphinx for a moment and was more concerned with staying standing as inbuilt simulators showed the Dire Wolf become almost four tons lighter because of armour loss caused by the weapons fire. He noticed the Long Range Missile Launcher was destroyed so hit the ammo-dump button, the paint rounds wouldn’t actually cause damage if they were hit by simulated damage they would cause the computers to shut down most of the Mech’s left side simulating an ammo explosion. Victor turned to see the Sphinx struggling to move as the pilot battled the massive heat build up in the Mech, firing that many lasers at once had caused a severe overheating Victor toggled his primary laser armament four Extended-Range large lasers in an arm mounted pod together and fired, the heat generated overwhelmed his own heat sinks but the resulting damage on the already battered Sphinx caused the Nova Cat BattleMech to shut down, it was out of this fight.
As Victor battled the Clan BattleMech Peter continued to battle the Dragon Cat OmniMech, there was only two in the entire Nova Cat force so this was either a highly ranked Nova Cat or the Khan himself. The Heavy Assault Gauss Rifle on the Dragon Cat was sheering away Peter’s armour and the superior speed of the lighter Clan Mech was allowing the Clan warrior to avoid most of his shots already Peter had used half of his Rotary Autocannon and a quarter of his Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle magazines. At the same time the Clan Mech was closing in on Peter’s position which would allow the Heavy OmniMech to bring even more weapons to bare. Targeting the Dragon Cat Peter used his links to the hand-held Rotary Autocannon to switch off all the weapons safeties intent on firing until it was empty, pulling down on the trigger with his Mech’s left hand the Autocannon began to rotate throwing out a steady stream of lead at the Clan Mech causing damage to the left and centre torsos, suddenly the autocannon stopped, jammed, Peter reached back with his Mech’s right hand trying to clear it, he’d practiced long and hard ever since receiving this modified Mech to clear jams.
This break in the firing was long enough for Canin to close the gap on the Fafnir unmolested the Nova Cat Khan unleashed a barrage of Extended-Range and Heavy laser fire supported by Anti-Personnel Gauss Rifle fire several of the AP Gauss slugs slammed into the Fafnir’s hand-held weapon causing it to blow up in the Lyran Archon’s face. The simulated and paint explosion on the weapon tore the left hand completely off the Mech and threw the Mech backwards, despite Peter’s efforts the Mech fell onto its back, not holding back Canin triggered another Heavy Assault Gauss barrage at the downed Mech concentrating on the damaged left side as he walked around the felled Mech, the fire caused damage to the Improved Heavy Gauss weapon held there causing a simulated internal explosion which began to shut down Peter’s engine. Further fire from Canin’s weapons caused the right side gauss rifle to do the same effectively causing the simulated death of the Lyran Archon and his Mech.
Satisfied with the ‘kill’ Canin turned to face his next opponent only to see a flash of light then feel his Mech get steamrolled to the ground snapping the left leg and crushing the left arm as the Mech was thrown to the ground in a physical attack, Canin barely saw who had hit him before a simulated laser blast engulfed his cockpit causing Canin’s own simulated death. Fortunately or unfortunately the death of their Khan and the breaking of Clan battle rules which released the entire Clan force to engage the Inner Sphere troops in a free-for-all melee. Four Mechs, six vehicles and at least two platoons of infantry were cut down within moments as the Clan force went to town almost instantly forgetting their engagement rules, the Nova Cats had long trained in Inner Sphere engagement rules as well as their own and concentrated fire with Clan weapons was lethal on the remaining Inner Sphere troops without their leader they had nothing to lose.
Three hours later the battle was called off as the battle whittled down the numbers on both sides. The simulated damage was cancelled by the training course computer governor all Mechs that had been damage with simulated fire were able to move again including Peter Steiner-Davion’s Fafnir. Canin’s Dragon Cat however with a broken leg and crushed arm would be going nowhere quick it would take hours to recover and repair the Mech. Crawling out onto the frozen tundra of the New Scotland continent Canin looked around to see if he could see who had hit him, the Mech that had caused the damage would be heavily damaged physically while the rest would only be covered in paint from simulated hits. Glancing around he saw Victor Steiner-Davion walking towards him dressed in a jumpsuit “I am sorry for the loss of your Mech Khan Rosse†Victor said apologetic “I assure you it was a complete accident you unexpectedly turned and impact was unavoidable.†He said, for Canin it sounded too easily a prepared response.
“I would like to meet the person who hit me, they will answer to me personally.â€
“Of course†Victor said stepping aside, behind Victor was his OmniMech, Prometheus was lying on the ground its right side heavily damaged, the right arm and leg only stumps, the limbs missing.
“It was you!†Canin shouted accusingly stepping towards Victor, "you broke engagement rules!" he said annoyed, so much for respect for the Clan way of combat. Just then Peter arrived with some Royal Guard infantry.
“It was an accident, I meant to assist Peter’s downed Mech, I did not expect you to turn the way you did I lost my own footing there†he said pointing to a tuft of grass “then I hit the ground it destroyed the leg and the gyro taking me out of the fight with you.†Canin was obviously annoyed with Victor, accident or not an experienced warrior like Victor should know better.
“Khan Rosse, perhaps the results of the fight would interest you more?†Peter asked Canin only nodded. “Following your ‘death’ the Nova Cats destroyed sixty percent of the forces aligned against them, disabling a further twenty-two percent, the remaining eighteen percent of our forces are not combat worthy, Complete Victory goes to Clan Nova Cat who also hold the plain of battle. Had this been real you would have just personally taken out two of the Inner Sphere's succession lords.†This caused a slight smile from the Nova Cat leader.
“Well at least that is something†he said quietly “so recovery and go again tomorrow?†he asked the two bemused Steiner-Davion brothers. “Only joking†he muttered as he walked over to a bunch of still armoured Elementals “Get some heavy lifting gear in here, we will need to recover any of the overly damaged Mechs, including mine, post a guard just in case Davion security is not as good as they claim.†he ordered the Elementals nodded as Canin began walking back towards the Nova Cat firebase the end of another day though he wasn’t happy he’d ‘died’ it was good his people knew what they were doing. Victor and Peter stood watching as Canin continued shouting orders at his people as he continued coordinating the recovery effort.
“I’ll never understand Clanners†Victor said quietly so only Peter could hear.
“Well you’re the one who invited them, it was nice fighting side by side again though.â€
“I agree, should definitely do this again.â€
“Can’t do that First Prince Davion, the last time the Lyran Commonwealth and Federated Suns held multiple sets of war games the Capellan Chancellor lost her mind.â€
“Yes, but I’m not marrying your daughter Archon Steiner.†Victor said, both men burst out laughing as they joked about the past, it had been a different time then.
Snow Raven Incursion
Tabayama Prefecture, District of New Samarkand
Draconic Combine
15th December 3077
Despite and possibly because of further DCMS attacks against their naval forces and trade convoys the Snow Ravens decide to further punish the DCMS invading the remaining worlds of the Tabayama Prefecture intent on taking anything and everything the Draconis Combine could want in the region and continuing to threaten New Samarkand.
In one swift decisive move the Ravens drop troops on Tabayama, Pondicherry and Suinhaer all at once each with heavy Outworlds Alliance Aerospace support and WarShips from within the Outworlds. The Ravens also ensure that Tabayama itself is held almost exclusively by the Clan’s forces effectively turning the world into an armed camp. Within the Draconis Combine the remaining world of the Tabayama Prefecture, Elif is folded into the Ningxia Prefecture making it part of the District of Pesht, further infuriating the Warlord of New Samarkand as yet another world is lost to someone else - despite it being internal.
Days after these events the First Genyosha Regiment with two armour regiments and a battle armour regiment all watched over by the DCS Lyon’s Thumb, a Kyushu-class Frigate, arrive at New Samarkand to help shore up the border defences and allow the Draconis Combine to counter any further Federated Suns or Snow Raven troubles.
Royal Family Section, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th December 3077
The Steiner-Davion family enjoy Christmas on New Avalon with both sets of Royal children meeting each other for the first time, also present were Khan Canin Rosse, his wife Yvonne (Steiner-Davion) and their children. Though Canin had vetoed the two Nova Cats taking any ‘presents’ from the celebrations from the day he does suggest they take vineers to remind them of the day for the next time they see these people they may have to fight them in battle.
From the Christmas day celebrations Grayson Nova Cat claims a small specially made piece of dining material featuring an armoured Cat with gloved fists and wielding a sunburst shield and a Sword of Excalibur. For Sonja Nova Cat she claims one of Danai Centrella-Davion’s fallen Magistracy Insignia earrings which no-one had seen the Duchess lose, otherwise the entire Nova Cat contingent, perhaps with the exception of Yvonne, remain watching the entire proceeding though they interact with the others when challenged.
In the afternoon Victor and Peter Steiner-Davion along with Canin Rosse hunt in the forests of the Mount Avalon Mountains surrounding the Davion Royal Palace, while Danai Centrella-Davion, Isis Steiner and Yvonne enjoy a quiet relaxing time in one of the secluded parts of the Davion Palace.
The children including the Davions Burton, his younger sister Emma and the two six year old twins Fredrick and Sarah, the Steiners Jessica and Melinda-Anne and the two Nova Cats are given an entertaining time at the NAIS College with activities such as white water rafting (for the older children), paintball practice, dancing and adventure runs. During this time away from the ridged ness of Clan life both Grayson and Sonja are able to observe and experience much of what it is to be born as a freeborn in the Inner Sphere and in many ways begin to envy their distant cousins, though both are equally eager to rejoin their Clan-kin and their training.
By the end of the night all the children are tired which allows the adults to spend time just relaxing in one the massive rooms of the Davion palace, overall it allows the Steiner contingent of the family to relax as Melinda was well on her way to recovery despite scientists and doctors following her everywhere and it was good for both sides to see their distant family from all round. For Yvonne it was a chance for her to see what she had been missing from her previous life, and later confiding in Canin admitting it wasn’t a life she would want back in the Clans she was just another freeborn despite her high connections here there was constant pressure. For Canin he was able to see the leaders of two massive Inner Sphere states in their own surroundings and know exactly what to expect in the future from them.
Boxing Day
Steel Viper/Jade Falcon Border
Melissa Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
26th December 3077
Intent on giving his nation something to celebrate for Christmas General of Armies Keane Sortek leads the First Commonwealth Guards Regiment, the First Skye Jaegers Regiment, the Eleventh Arcturan Guards RCT, the Seventh Donegal Guards RCT and the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Zeta Galaxy against the forces of Clan Jade Falcon and Clan Steel Viper intent on retaking as much worlds as possible. Supported by the Battle-cruisers Implacable and Snow Fire this force charged first onto Kwangchow Wang in the Steel Viper Occupation Zone there they found the Ninety-fourth Battle Cluster, the Fifty-Seventh Striker Cluster and the Gamma Galaxy Cluster of the Steel Viper’s Gamma Galaxy. Galaxy Commander James Andrews was willing to answer a Batchall fighting with roughly two Clusters of troops culled from the units available.
Against him faced Galaxy Commander Mathew Shaw of Clan Wolf (in-Exile)’s Zeta Galaxy leading a combined force equivalent to Four Battalions from all five Pan-Commonwealth forces. While the rest continued onto Annazuita. On Kwangchow Wang the allied Commonwealth forces fought stronger and harder than the Steel Viper force effectively destroying the Fifty-Seventh Striker Cluster and heavily hurting both other clusters by destroying their respective forces. The remains of Gamma Galaxy was left to limp from the Inner Sphere battered and beaten in disgrace.
Keane Sortek had bigger targets on the pecking order however pushing his forces onto Annazuita finding the badly damaged One hundred-and-fourth Assault Cluster of Delta Galaxy on the planet. With the Steel Viper commander unwilling to negotiate they were met by the Eleventh Arcturan Guards RCT, though the Steel Vipers tried to fight a cat-and-mouse game on the planet’s surface but the Steel Vipers were not adept at this type of warfare and found themselves outclassed by the full strength RCT and were subsequently destroyed.
Again pushing on Keane Sortek left the WarShip Implacable to defend the ground forces while continued onto Chapultepec on December 29th 3077. There he found the rest of Delta Galaxy, akin to the One hundred-and-fourth Assault Cluster, they were unwilling to surrender. With two front-line Clusters on planet Keane tasked the First Skye Jaegers and the Seventh Donegal Guards RCT to the ground battle fighting in a wide high rimmed gorge. The fighting on the ground was brutal with the majority of the Seventh Donegal’s BattleMech Regiment destroyed along with almost a battalion of the Skye Jaegers
With an entire Steel Viper Galaxy destroyed and another in retreat for General of Armies Keane Sortek to dig in and end his campaign would have been understandable however he still had one target he wanted to target with the First Commonwealth Guards Regiment and the Fifth Mountain Wolf the world of Clermont which had been under Steel Viper control until a surprise trial by the Second Falcon Lancers of the Jade Falcon’s newly formed Alpha Galaxy. On the 1st January 3078 the beginning of a new year the WarShip Snow Fire led the two remaining units of Sortek’s force into the system. The Jade Falcon Commander refused point blank to deal with an Exiled Jade Wolf or deal with a Federated Commonwealth orphan taunting the Inner Sphere force all the way to orbit. The Jade Falcon found herself on the opposite foot almost immediately as the Fifth Mountain Wolf Cluster Combat dropped directly on top of her command base while the First Commonwealth Guards secured both the Spaceport and a Jade Falcon training base on the south continent capturing fifty new dispatched cadets. The fighting between the Jade Falcons and the Exiles was brutal with no attempt even made for Zellbrigen to be adhered to instead the two units beat each other mercilessly until a Battalion from the Commonwealth Guards arrived to assist and eventually destroy the remaining Falcons.
With four liberated worlds Keane Sortek had placed his name in the record books for the Lyran Commonwealth and given hope to billions that perhaps under the right leadership the Lyran Commonwealth could push the Clans out of all their former territories. Many begin to wonder if a Son of the Suns would perhaps be the right man to lead the Lyran nation into its future.
-
3078
Taurian Military Academy
Taurus, Taurian Concordat
5th January 3078
In front of his mother Talia Martens and Marshal (Baron) Cham Kithrong Cornet Erik Martens-Calderon graduates from Taurus Military Academy as a Battle Armour trained infantry trooper. Instead of instantly becoming a member of the House Guard and effectively the Protector without name, at Erik’s own request he becomes a member of the First Taurian Pride Regiment assigned to the Sixth Corps. To ensure that her receives enough protection in this far flung regiment Erik is assigned to an reinforced squad of six Bruce Battle Armour suits all newly bought from the Northwind Highlanders.
The Fort, Ecol City
Thorin, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
14th January 3078
In his office with his wife Major Katya Christifori and Caradoc Trevena, who had recently landed after travelling from the Star League Council on Defiance, Archer Christifori informed them both of the newest request to come to the SLDF. “Thank you for making the trip Caradocâ€
“It’s nice to be back in the Commonwealth even if it is only for a short time.â€
“Right well I’ll get straight to it, yesterday the local Combine representative presented the sentries with a letter with the official stamp of the Coordinator asking us for assistance against Clan Snow Raven.â€
“They have a cheek after getting us into that Bear trap. Why not go direct through the Council? Kouda is still quite well thought of in the Combine for his ability to stay above the infighting that is crippling Minoru’s family.†Caradoc noted speaking of the Combine’s permanent resident on Defiance Lucas Kouda.
“We cannot say for definite however it is believed that the current tensions between the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine blocked any attempt to make him aware of the Draconis Combine’s request.†Katya said “the timing of the Combine’s request is almost prefect though.â€
“Why is that major?â€
“Yesterday the First Genyosha supported by several conventional regiments and the mercenary regiment, Legion of the Rising Sun, landed on and liberated Delacruz and Grovekl III on the Combine/Suns/Raven border obviously picked to put pressure on Kesai VI which has joined the Federated Suns.â€
“The Raven casualties?†Archer asked himself not fully aware of the event.
“The Ravens themselves lost a single Cluster, the Ninety-fifth Assault Cluster, Beta Galaxy, Elite troops the lot of them. The Outworlds Alliance lost the second and third battalions of the Alliance Borderers. According to intelligence reports from the Outworlds the Mech Battalion and some stragglers were able to escape off world the Legion of the Rising Sun deciding not to push them further, the regiment has since been stood down and instead is reforming as a new Snow Raven commanded Cluster.†Katya said giving them the full briefing.
“So the Snow Raven Clan doesn’t suffer but the Outworlds do?†Caradoc said quietly more to himself than anything else “don’t they see the Snow Ravens are no good for them? They will take over full control at this rate mark my words.â€
“I agree but what should we do? The DCMS has turned their backs on us even fought against our forces recently do we want to get back into bed with them so quickly?â€
“Do we have a choice if the Combine decides that the SLDF is not helping them any we could have the withdraw from the League something I think we couldn’t afford lightly.†Katya warned.
“I’d agree, the Combine needs to stay, and in many ways we need to stay to ensure that Minoru is kept in power, he is our ally as much as his father and brother were. Also we have Fort Winson to think about, we loose that the Light Horse will not be happy, their people are only now being accepted in the Combine.â€
“Well if we are to help them, I think some measures have to be in place, first we cannot afford a fight on two sides the Ghost Bear battle has to finish and finish quickly, with the two sides sitting down and thrashing out a deal if need be. Second Caradoc when you go back to Defiance heap some pressure on the Suns, there is no need for them to be pushing the Combine deeper into its shell quietly remind them that they joined the SLDF making the Combine their ally.â€
“I know what answer I’ll get. Who are you sending to the Snow Raven border?â€
“The Eridani Light Horse are closest, I’ll order the SLS Striking Claw to rendezvous with the Covenant on the way.â€
“The Covenant?†Katya asked surprised looking at her husband “that’s your ship?â€
“Yes, I’ll take a Battalion of the SAS with me; it’s time the Commanding General got out from behind his desk.†He said confidently
Parade Grounds
Hesperus II, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd January 3078
Taking further licence from the Federated Suns efforts to form Training Battalions and unwilling to spend masses on training whole regiments of troops the Duke of Skye instructs select worlds within his Isle to form Training Battalions that will train to protect the world and in the future come together and form new Isle of Skye Guard Regiments.
The Brewer family of Hesperus II almost immediately form the First Training Battalion of Hesperus II, this unit made up of elements of their former private police force and trained by former LCAF and AFFS professional soldiers is combat ready almost straight from formation and is immediately gifted to the Isle of Skye Armed Forces which Duke Ryan Kelswa-Steiner happily takes in.
Emerald Talon, Nightlord-class Battleship
Nadir Point, Adelaide System
Steel Viper Occupation Zone
28th January 3078
The massive Emerald Talon, one of the few Nightlord-class Battleships to exist, shimmered into the Adelaide system of the Steel Viper Occupation Zone as the Jade Falcons invaded all three of the Steel Viper’s remaining worlds at once. There was no batchall as the Emerald Talon’s gunners immediately opened fire on the Cameron-class Battle-cruiser Zalman’s Endeavour the Steel Viper flagship. Naval autocannon, laser and gauss rifle fire tore into the smaller Steel Viper vessel with ferocious effect. From the start the Steel Viper vessel was at a disadvantage the Emerald Talon had more guns, more armour, was faster and had more support craft. After less than thirty minutes of fighting the Steel Viper craft was drifting towards the system’s star burning and venting atmosphere on all decks. The Jade Falcons not willing to finish with that crushed the Steel Vipers on Newton’s Square and Medellin removing the Steel Vipers from the Inner Sphere for the second time.
-
Main Government Complex
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
6th February 3078
For what seemed like the fourth time since landing Marshal Boris Tharn straightened his uniform. He was one of only six Taurian officers on planet and this made him nervous, these negotiations had progressed at length over the HPG Net and via courier carried transcripts. Boris had not seen the need to travel here in person however Marshal Cham Kithrong had insisted, it gnawed at Boris that he had been ordered to the world by a simple Marshal of course that did not matter now as Boris himself was only a Marshal. If only Grover was in charge things would have been so much different.
Not that mattered he had been ordered to this world to complete the negotiations in person and on the way to the planet he’d seen something that was possibly a deal breaker, possibly something that would be a deal breaker. Moments after Boris had settled into his chair the Filtvelt negotiator Maria Stolvaniski entered she was a striking woman over six foot in height she held her head high and wore a well kept New Avalon-styled Business suit with an open shirt underneath, if Boris was ten maybe fifteen years younger he thought he may have a chance with the woman. “Miss Stolvaniski, how nice to finally meet you face to face†he said rising from his seat smiling all the way.
“Marshal Tharn, likewise welcome to Filtvelt. I assume your trip was pleasant?†she said moving closer to her seat “please, let’s not stand on ceremony.†She said sitting down.
“As you wish, I’m not surprised you bring up my journey, I assume Filtvelt has had troubles of late?â€
“Nothing more than usual Marshal, a new pirate force The Bloodhounds raided several of our worlds however they have disappeared from sight otherwise all quiet in the Coalition.†The pirate band name was familiar to Tharn and sent a shiver down his spine, the Bloodhounds or Rocky’s Bloodhounds had caused some heavy damage to several Taurian worlds in recent weeks they seemed to be headed by a Federated Suns national who had gone rogue, at least that’s what the Federated Suns had claimed, tracking down the Bloodhounds had proved difficult however.
“So the presence of a Nova Cat WarShip in the system is not cause for concern?†Tharn asked, surely the people of this world knew of them being here.
“Ha, you mean the Far Star? It is nothing more than a trade vessel, limited armaments.â€
“Limited maybe, but I believe still enough firepower to turn this little city into a cinder and more than a match for your entire nation’s naval forces.â€
“Marshal, the Far Star is a trade ship nothing more. They have less than a dozen warriors aboard and are no more a threat to this world as they were your DropShip. They likely allowed your ship to scan them to show exactly what you just said, they possess the firepower but have no intention of using it, they are simply our trade partners as we hope you will be.â€
“There is nothing simple about it Miss Stolvaniski, Marshal Kithrong does not like the Nova Cats he doesn’t trust a Clan that travels into the Periphery and makes its home in a bandit kingdom. And could you blame him, what exactly do you know about them? There brethren conquerored a fifth of the Inner Sphere, collectively holding more territory than the Capellan Confederation. They are in bed with the Davions; if I remember it correctly their Khan is still on New Avalon.â€
“We have nothing to worry about from them, they mean us no harm, are we going to forget the ‘Clan Menace’ for one minute and discuss our negotiations?†She said sitting straighter “our deal was two Battalions of Mechs and Vehicles for the Taurians providing the Filtvelt people with all the parts required to produce a Snowden Mining Facility does this offer still stand?â€
“Noâ€
“What do you mean? No Tharn, our nations have had this deal on the table for over a month!â€
“The offer has to change, the Nova Cat presence cannot be ignored, to keep the Taurian people quiet and happy with this arrangement we need a Battalion of BattleMechs up front.†Maria nodded, that was easily doable “then a further three Battalions per Station to be delivered.â€
“That’s ten battalions of BattleMechs for three stations! That preposterous what are you trying to do bankrupt my nation?†Maria shouted raising to her feet Tharn sat back “we can give you two Battalions up front†she said knowing that it would hurt the expansion of the Guardian Regiments but it was something that needed done “and a further two per station as agreed that’s eight Battalions, however we want the first station now.â€
“Not possible, they are not jump capable†which was true.
“But the Mark One has a KF Boom, allowing to be transported on a specialized JumpShip which the Taurians have three†which was also true.
“We need the stations we have to keep the Taurian economy alive.â€
“We need the BattleMechs you want to keep this nation alive, the Federated Suns is constantly expanding and the Nova Cats though trade allies are still a potent threat should they come to blows with the Federated Suns we want to be a significant thorn in their side.†Maria explained, Boris nodded he saw logic in that.
“I’ll take your two Battalions of Mech, Maria, and the Taurian people can spare a single Snowden Mining Facility however the Filtvelt people will pay for future stations with natural resources as well as BattleMechs.†Tharn said seeing a business opportunity.
“What do you want Boris?†Several hours later the two had come to an agreement Boris would leave Filtvelt with a brand-new Battalion of Hammerhands and BattleAxe BattleMechs produced on Filtvelt and in three weeks a Snowden Mining Facility, which Boris would ensure was the worse condition station in the Concordat, would arrive in the Filtvelt Coalition. In the future the Filtvelt Coalition would also produce six further Battalions of Mechs and several DropShips of natural resources and the Taurian people would build three new Snowden stations. The new production would be the first in centuries and would boost Taurian employment while the Filtvelt people would get brand new stations. The Taurian Concordat, and more directly Marshal Boris Tharn would keep their mouth shut about the Nova Cat presence within the Coalition, at least for now.
When Tharn returned to the Concordat with this new deal Cham Kithrong was indeed happy with the deal made agreeing with Tharn’s request to reactivate the Fifth Taurian Hussars Regiment as part of the Four Corps. He was also happy with the new job opportunities Tharn had created for the nation and rewarded him by restoring his Senior Marshal rank although he remained second to Cham himself in the military hierarchy.
Steel Viper Enclaves
New Kent, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
15th February 3078
Following news breaking of the Steel Vipers being routed from the Inner Sphere the other Clans could smell a wounded Clan a mile off. The Steel Viper merchants began to return to their enclaves the Steel Viper’s Homeworlds Touman batting down the hatches for a fight for their very survival.
It didn’t take long for the first attack forces to land, first striking the world of New Kent in the Kerensky Cluster Clan Coyote’s Elite Fiftieth Assault Cluster from Alpha Galaxy landed less than three kilometres away from the furthest east Steel Viper enclave, taking it in a simple trial they moved onto three further enclaves capturing them all nearly completely destroying the Steel Viper’s One hundred-and-forty-first Phalanx Cluster in the process. This victory for the Coyotes effectively turned half of the world over to Coyote control.
Unfortunately for the Vipers this was not the end of their torment, the very next day the almost timid Stone Rhino Clan launched an attack against the Steel Viper stronghold on Dagda in the Pentagon worlds. Although the Steel Vipers were able to fend off the majority of the assaults the Stone Rhino Clan was able to dig into some areas roughly securing ten percent of the planet’s territory and almost half of the Steel Viper’s enclave. As the tenants of Zellbrigen are upheld neither side loses much in the way of personnel or equipment.
Trial of Refusal
Disputed Territory
Tabayama, Draconis Combine
26th February 3078
Protected by the SLS Covenant and the SLS Shining Claw the 151st Eridani Light Horse, the First Royal Pathfinders Battle Armour Regiment and the Twenty-first Light Horse Battalion of the Special Armed Service all entered the Tabayama system. The two WarShips were almost immediately engaged by the Venture Star, a Snow Raven Carrack-class Armed Transport, the vessel nothing more than an armed merchant ship was no match for the Star League WarShips and was quickly destroyed giving the Star League troops naval superiority in they system.
Deeper in the system the Star League WarShips detect a second incoming Snow Raven WarShip which had just executed a jump into one of the system’s distant pirate points. While Commanding-General Archer Christifori and the ground troops headed for Tabayama the two SLDF WarShips turned towards this new attacker.
On the ground Archer and his troops were able to quickly secure the local Spaceport and rendezvous with the beleaguered survivors of the initial Snow Raven Invasion however with two Galaxies of Snow Ravens on planet. In space the two SLDF WarShips engaged the Morning Violence, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, although they outnumbered the Snow Raven vessel the Clan crews experience and the superior number of Clan aerospace fighters kept them in the battle. After nearly three hours the Morning Violence was heavily damaged as it limped away from the planet and jumped clear of the system once again restoring SLDF Naval superiority.
On the ground little changed as the SLDF and Snow Ravens battled it out it seemed there would be a stalemate however two days later Khan Lynn McKenna, the Montbatton, a Texas-class Battleship, and the whole Snow Raven Alpha Galaxy jumped into the system weapon ports ready again changing the tables. The ground burned quickly to the planet while Archer Christifori tried to negotiate with the Khan, although she was unhappy at having to deal with a ‘stavag SLDF’ commander she agreed that an open battle would devastate all three of her Galaxies and likely damage her WarShip. Instead a Trial of Refusal would determine the end to this conflict and the fate of the world being fought on.
On the planet the SLDF and Draconis Combine survivors fought a gruelling six hour battle against the Snow Ravens which only really ended when a force from the Twenty-first Light Horse Battalion conducted a head-hunter raid against the Snow Raven command capturing two DropShips, destroying a further three and capturing several high ranked Clan officers. Although Khan McKenna did not appreciate her forces being assaulted in their landing zones she knew the Wolves had used similar tactics during the initial invasion and she did respect the skill of the troops. Khan McKenna surrendered Trial and the planet shortly afterwards, after recovering her troops from the SLDF, retreating back to her Clan’s own territory.
LCS Morgan Kell, Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser
Pain, Periphery
14th March 3078
Although only recently commissioned, with barely dry pain, and a still inexperienced crew the LCS Morgan Kell, the Lyran Commonwealth’s newest Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, is dispatched directly from the shipyards of Alarion to the world of Pain in the periphery near the Distant Rim of the Lyran Commonwealth.
The world of Pain was a very well known Pirate band which was run by the Morrison’s Extractors Pirate band run by Hooper Morrison himself. Although the pirate band had been a minor problem for years the Able’s Aces Mercenary command under contract with the then-Rim Collection had beaten them on their own ground and since neither Morrison nor his Extractors had been a major problem. With the Able’s Aces now forming the core to a new Lyran Commonwealth Brigade, the Distant Rim Lancers the problem from the Extractors was nothing major any more.
The pirates were not the problem with today’s mission however Kommadore Kennedy Holmes had strict orders from command, jump in scan the system and jump out report any strange readings. The LCS Morgan Kell jumped into the system “Full scan of system, weapons prepare for combat manoeuvres…â€
“Kommadore, Jump signature we have a ComStar registered Magellan-class JumpShip the Purity of Purpose jumping clear of the system.â€
“There is no ComStar anymore Leutenant, disable her.†Kennedy said it had to belong to the pirates, an impressive capture for them.
“Too late, Herr Kommadore, the vessel is goneâ€
“That’s one failure today Leutenant, let’s not make a habit of it. Now find us the bounty.†She ordered he nodded after a few moments the officer looked back “yes, son, what is it.â€
“Kommadore, there are no other WarShips in the system. Two DropShips and a dozen fighters nearer the planet but nothing substantial.â€
“Understood, it was only a rumour, ignore the pirates we will not be engaging them today. Communications send a message to command, there are no Black Lion-class Battle-cruisers in the Pain system and we are continuing onto Gilfillian’s Gold.†In some ways Kennedy was glad there was no cruiser, her crew were inexperienced and nowhere near ready true combat but for Kennedy herself she yearned for combat.
Star League R&D
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
22nd March 3078
After nearly a year of research and work Star League engineers, scientists and covert operatives are able to put together their own version of Clan Nova Cat’s Patriot-class. Although they are able to match the vessel’s improved armour and get a close match to the anti-ship weapons they do not include sub-capital missiles instead, for aerospace fighter defence the vessel would mount a mix of Rotary Autocannons, twenty-tube Long Range Missile Launchers with Fire Control Systems and Light Gauss Rifles. The vessel would also keep the four DropShip Hard points the Nova Cat vessel lacked.
Although the Commanding-General and the Advisory council are impressed with what they have done they shelve any plans for upgrading the mothballed Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers in the Terra system because the SLDF budget cannot come close to being able to cope with the costs involved. It appears that plans for a reborn SLDF Navy are to be kept on hold for now.
Through sources unknown and funding dating back centuries of Terran History Sir Richard Branson X CEO of Virgin Global Industries and Interstellar Transport approaches the SLDF six days after this decision is made and offers to fund the construction of the first Star League Patriot-class Missile Cruiser. However he has a cost, the Blake’s Vengeance, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, disabled by ComStar when they assaulted Terra liberating it from the Word of Blake.
Initially the Star League and Terran Councils block this request however before the end of March Sir Branson shows them his plan. The ship looks like a Sovetskii Soyuz however it lacks nearly all its armament and instead carries a stronger conventional array of weapons and it carries one thousand two hundred first class passenger berths, a hyper pulse generator and three one hundred-and-twenty metre diameter gravity decks.
Although sceptical of the man’s plans the SLDF was desperate for further funds and allowed the sale of the vessel as well as the loaning of one of the Star League’s Titan shipyard docks, for an elevated charge their only true request is that he changes the name which Sir Richard happily did naming the vessel Starliner One. As his engineers begin their work of tearing out the Blake’s Vengeance’s damaged system’s Sir Richard Branson X begins negotiations with all the succession states to allow his vessel, the first truly commercialized WarShip to travel the lengths and breaths of the Inner Sphere.
WarShip Cache
Strana Mechty System
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
24th March 3078
With recent losses telling on the Steel Viper Touman Khan Brett Andrews selects three WarShips held in mothball to be reactivated for the Steel Viper Clan. Two are Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruisers while the third is an ancient but incredibly preserved Dart-class Light Cruiser.
The Steel Viper engineers are around two thirds of the way through their work on the three vessels when a Stone Rhino Carrier-class DropShip arrived in the area declaring trials against the engineers and the three WarShips.
In three trials that follow the Steel Viper warriors with the reactivation party are able to secure the Viper’s Legacy, one of the two Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruisers, and the Dart-class Light Cruiser Crazy Horse however the third vessel is claimed by the Stone Rhinos and is named Eden’s Blessing.
-
LCS Morgan Kell, Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser
Pain, Periphery
14th March 3078
Although only recently commissioned, with barely dry pain, and a still inexperienced crew the LCS Morgan Kell, the Lyran Commonwealth’s newest Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, is dispatched directly from the shipyards of Alarion to the world of Pain in the periphery near the Distant Rim of the Lyran Commonwealth.
The world of Pain was a very well known Pirate band which was run by the Morrison’s Extractors Pirate band run by Hooper Morrison himself. Although the pirate band had been a minor problem for years the Able’s Aces Mercenary command under contract with the then-Rim Collection had beaten them on their own ground and since neither Morrison nor his Extractors had been a major problem. With the Able’s Aces now forming the core to a new Lyran Commonwealth Brigade, the Distant Rim Lancers the problem from the Extractors was nothing major any more.
The pirates were not the problem with today’s mission however Kommadore Kennedy Holmes had strict orders from command, jump in scan the system and jump out report any strange readings. The LCS Morgan Kell jumped into the system “Full scan of system, weapons prepare for combat manoeuvres…â€
“Kommadore, Jump signature we have a ComStar registered Magellan-class JumpShip the Purity of Purpose jumping clear of the system.â€
“There is no ComStar anymore Leutenant, disable her.†Kennedy said it had to belong to the pirates, an impressive capture for them.
“Too late, Herr Kommadore, the vessel is goneâ€
“That’s one failure today Leutenant, let’s not make a habit of it. Now find us the bounty.†She ordered he nodded after a few moments the officer looked back “yes, son, what is it.â€
“Kommadore, there are no other WarShips in the system. Two DropShips and a dozen fighters nearer the planet but nothing substantial.â€
“Understood, it was only a rumour, ignore the pirates we will not be engaging them today. Communications send a message to command, there are no Black Lion-class Battle-cruisers in the Pain system and we are continuing onto Gilfillian’s Gold, include all information on that Magellan someone may get lucky.†In some ways Kennedy was glad there was no cruiser, her crew were inexperienced and nowhere near ready true combat but for Kennedy herself she yearned for combat.
Star League R&D
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
22nd March 3078
After nearly a year of research and work Star League engineers, scientists and covert operatives are able to put together their own version of Clan Nova Cat’s Patriot-class. Although they are able to match the vessel’s improved armour and get a close match to the anti-ship weapons they do not include sub-capital missiles instead, for aerospace fighter defence the vessel would mount a mix of Rotary Autocannons, twenty-tube Long Range Missile Launchers with Fire Control Systems and Light Gauss Rifles. The vessel would also keep the four DropShip Hard points the Nova Cat vessel lacked.
Although the Commanding-General and the Advisory council are impressed with what they have done they shelve any plans for upgrading the mothballed Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers in the Terra system because the SLDF budget cannot come close to being able to cope with the costs involved. It appears that plans for a reborn SLDF Navy are to be kept on hold for now.
Through sources unknown and funding dating back centuries of Terran History Sir Richard Branson X CEO of Virgin Global Industries and Interstellar Transport approaches the SLDF six days after this decision is made and offers to fund the construction of the first Star League Patriot-class Missile Cruiser. However he has a cost, the Blake’s Vengeance, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, disabled by ComStar when they assaulted Terra liberating it from the Word of Blake.
Initially the Star League and Terran Councils block this request however before the end of March Sir Branson shows them his plan. The ship looks like a Sovetskii Soyuz however it lacks nearly all its armament and instead carries a stronger conventional array of weapons and it carries one thousand two hundred first class passenger berths, a hyper pulse generator and three one hundred-and-twenty metre diameter gravity decks.
Although sceptical of the man’s plans the SLDF was desperate for further funds and allowed the sale of the vessel as well as the loaning of one of the Star League’s Titan shipyard docks, for an elevated charge their only true request is that he changes the name which Sir Richard happily did naming the vessel Starliner One. As his engineers begin their work of tearing out the Blake’s Vengeance’s damaged system’s Sir Richard Branson X begins negotiations with all the succession states to allow his vessel, the first truly commercialized WarShip to travel the lengths and breaths of the Inner Sphere.
WarShip Cache
Strana Mechty System
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
24th March 3078
With recent losses telling on the Steel Viper Touman Khan Brett Andrews selects three WarShips held in mothball to be reactivated for the Steel Viper Clan. Two are Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruisers while the third is an ancient but incredibly preserved Dart-class Light Cruiser.
The Steel Viper engineers are around two thirds of the way through their work on the three vessels when a Stone Rhino Carrier-class DropShip arrived in the area declaring trials against the engineers and the three WarShips.
In three trials that follow the Steel Viper warriors with the reactivation party are able to secure the Viper’s Legacy, one of the two Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruisers, and the Dart-class Light Cruiser Crazy Horse however the third vessel is claimed by the Stone Rhinos and is named Eden’s Blessing.
City 1km Limit
Alshain, Ghost Bear Dominion
Clan Occupied Space
5th April 3078
The Opacus Venatori had sneaked into the Ghost Bear Dominion and all the way onto Alshain without the Clan troops or their WarShips spotting them. Trust the Clan to let its guard down when fighting the Combine Berith though smiling inside the cockpit of his Archangel OmniMech. He was the last of the true Word of Blake left, and his unit the Opacus Venatori would prove this, and complete the Master’s will. Recently the Wolf Clan and the Exiles had felt the Opacus Venatori’s wrath with the Clan’s pathetic training units no match for Berith and his enhanced warriors.
“Venatori, there is a school five hundred metres east of your location, destroy it and all inhabitants. Opacus continue forwards.†He said splitting his forces into their level II formations. There was silence as six of his Mechs moved towards their new target led by Kari Martia’s ponderous King Crab assault Mech. The Demi Precentor‘s Mech could match Berith‘s machine for speed but not elegance, the Archangel had been designed to be the future of the Word of Blake, what was known as the Celestial series, now it was one of only a few remaining active. Although Martia had beaten him in simulation with a death-from-above attack Berith knew his Archangel was a superior design it annoyed Berith that production of the mighty machine had been halted. The Master had said that would change Berith had to have faith that would be the case.
“Bears detected.†Achillius St John said off to Berith’s right his voice almost mechanical from cybernetic enhancements, Berith reveled in the pureness of it.
“Direction of travel?†He demanded
“Heading for the Venatori, as expectedâ€
“Excellent, continue.†Berith ordered, he knew the Venatori would also have heard St John’s warning. Soon the battle was joined as a second-line Clan star engaged the Venatori, the previously targeted school now a battleground caught in the crossfire between Blake and Clan Mechs. From his vantage point Berith smiled the facility would be destroyed whatever the Clansmen did either by Venatori guns or by their own there was almost poetry to it. “Opacus, move in time for Blake’s Hammer to strike the Anvil.â€
“Further Bears detected, a full Trinary!†Kendali Morris said, she was most experienced in Dominion operations and her Petra was always moving around the Opacus formation scanning ready for the Clans, now the arrival of further Bears was unexpected.
“Opacus Lead to Venatori, finish those Bears it is time we joined and destroyed further more of their cubs.â€
“Venatori Lead, two are dead the others won’t last long, we will join you soon.â€
“Further Bears!†came another shout this time this time from Rufus Black Bear to the west in his Grigori OmniMech “a second Trinary.â€
“Venatori, withdraw from combat Opacus begin CASE RED operations.†He immediately said charging his PPCs targeting a nearby building he fired turning it to ash, the other Venatori were doing the same targeting everything as they began a slow withdrawal. CASE RED was a simple order, it was known throughout history but by a different name “Scorched Earth.â€
“Opacus Lead, we are under heavy fire element six is down, condition K.I.A.†Berith knew that was Elisabeth Rodriguez a troubled young woman desperate for a place within the Opacus or with other Manei Domini units, something she’d never experience now.
“Venatori, Rodriguez is CASE ORANGE.†He ordered, if Rodriguez Mech cockpit was intact it was to be destroyed under ORANGE protocols. “All forces initiate CASE BLACK†he said quickly CASE BLACK was fall back at best speed ignore all enemy targets, the operation was blown, even the Opacus Venatori knew when they were beaten. For their part the Ghost Bears were not charging in instead using their long ranged weapons sniping at the retreating Mechs. Twined Particle Cannon blasts hit the back of Portia Thomas’s Buccaneer toppling the Mech but not disabling it, as she tried to regain her feet as the rest of the unit outran the downed Mech Berith turned seeing the Buccaneer was being caught by Clan units. Quickly dropping his targeting systems across the Buccaneer he triggered his weapons enveloping his fallen comrade’s cockpit in fire ensuring there was no prisoners for the Ghost Bear troops.
For three hours later the Ghost Bears gave up the chase with the Opacus Venatori destroying three more Clan Mechs and a town they had taken the chase through. Two losses for the unit was their biggest yet, Berith knew he’d have to gain further troops through conventional means, he would not endanger the remaining Five just to refill his ranks. The Opacus Venatori were taken from the Clan world several hours later smuggled off world the same way they got onto the world soon they met up with their escort a modified Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser and they were away from the Ghost Bear world. Berith was left pondering his next target, a Clan or a greedy Succession Lord? There were so many targets that required the Peace of Blake but first he would replace the Venatori’s losses, it felt only right for his unit to be at strength. Perhaps one of the new Champion II designs the Master had ordered deployed to the Shadow Divisions, the Inner Sphere thought the Word of Blake was gone, there wever very wrong.
Militia Base
Glasgow, Skye
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
9th April 3078
Following the relative success of the First Thorin Training Battalion and the First Hesperus II Training Battalion the Isle of Skye Command form the First Skye Training Battalion attached to the local Skye militia force this is to bolster Skye’s forces and bolster the growing Isle of Skye Armed Forces giving Duke Kelswa-Steiner yet more strength in numbers. Though a bare Battalion in strength the Skye force is strengthened by the inclusion of Armour and a Battle Armour apprentice course as well as BattleMech, graduates of this particular Battalion are also guaranteed membership into the Skye Militia and the best will make the Skye Guards by order of the Duke.
Federated Suns/Nova Cat Contest
Lee, Alcyone Combat Region
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th April 3078
The now yearly exercise between the Nova Cat liaison force and the First Defiance Training Battalion takes place on the Capellan Border world of Lee right in the eye of the Capellan Confederation. For the competition the First Kittery Training Battalion is detached from duty with the First Kittery Borderers Regiment to allow the Capellan March units to experience combat with a Clan force.
However they are in for a surprise as the Capellan Confederation had been watching movements and knew exactly what was planned on their border world. Unhappy at the Nova Cat/Federated Suns Alliance and remembering the Nova Cat attack that ended the St Ives War in 3062 the Capellan Confederation took its opportunity to strike back. With an irregular force already on the planet equipped with nearly a regiments worth of weapons and vehicles Warrior House Fujita already well versed in fighting Clan troops, with the Sea Foxes on Sarna, was dispatched to be the hammer that would strike on the Training troops.
Unfortunately for the Capellans they had not considered two things, firstly that the Nova Cat Cavaliers Cluster was an Elite unit of the Clan’s Touman and secondly that Star Colonel Cassin Drummond, the Nova Cat Commander, would be able to make the AFFS troops not only fight with his people but also for him and follow his commands as if he was from New Avalon itself.
With both Training Battalions holding the Nova Cat flanks with the Nova Cat aerospace fighters providing dedicated strikes against the Capellan irregulars this released the Forty-Fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers to continually push forward closing to near point blank range with the Clan Elementals striking at the Capellan’s own Battle Armour it was a Battalion of Capellan Warriors against a Cluster of Nova Cat warriors desperate for combat. This desperation helped and hindered the Nova Cat force but it made little difference to Warrior House Fujita, with both its Battle Armour and its Irregular force out of the fight the Battalion was left horribly exposed and with the Elite Clansmen looking for blood they stood no chance. Within twenty-six minutes later the Warrior House was no-more.
With the battle over Star Colonel Cassin Drummond ordered that the First Kittery Borderers were given first pick of any salvage as they had been most badly damaged in the fighting and he giftakes a Timber Wolf OmniMech to the First Defiance Training Battalion. Meanwhile he sends a single Bolla Stealth tank, the Nova Cat’s only piece of salvage, back to the Nova Cat’s Den for study.
Disputed Territory
Draconis Combine/Ghost Bear border
22nd April 3078
As agreed with the SLDF the Combine calls on the Ghost Bears to end Second War however because of Opacus Venatori attack on Alshain and their Scorched Earth tactics the Ghost Bears refuse further assaults driving at Dieron. The Clan troops land on Dalkeith and Sakhalin in the Lyran Commonwealth as well as Port Moseby and Camlann in the Draconis Combine in an audacious raid from the former Free Rasalhague Republic territories as the Ghost Bears take the gloves off their attacks. For the Lyran position they are completely caught off guard by the attack as the Skye Command forces attempt to organise. As a result of the expanded combat line the SLDF troops re-enter battle in the Lyran Commonwealth preparing for assaults against the Ghost Bears.
New Samarkand Shipyards
New Samarkand System, New Samarkand Military District
Draconis Combine
31st April 3078
Despite problems with Clan troops on two borders the Draconis Combine makes contact with Clan Sea Fox’s Faulk Khanate in an attempt to broker a deal with repairing the New Samarkand Shipyards after Clan Snow Raven and Clan Nova Cat attacks in recent years have done so much damage.
The Sea Fox engineers agree to help them in their repairs however they will need access to the shipyards and full control of Itabiana for their work. The Draconis Combine reluctantly agrees though they are able to convince the Sea Fox engineers to throw renovating the half falling apart Togura museum ship in orbit of New Samarkand, the Samarkand-class Carrier would not be operational for a decade or more but it was a big symbol for the Kurita leaders to have to beat the bad PR they’d get in ‘giving’ away Itabiana to a Clan menace.
-
Outer Becon, Nadir Point
Alexander (Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser)
Outreach, Star League Protectorate
10th May 3078
The Wolf’s Dragoons flagship Alexander was quiet as the night watch continued as normal in the Outreach system, although the WarShip’s position was more symbolic of the Dragoon’s power than a necessary guardian the crew took their duty very seriously.
“There is goes again…†one of the sensor operators said quietly speaking to himself at his port bridge position.
“What is it, Leutenant?â€
“An energy signature it appeared about six minutes ago, very low range.â€
“Where?â€
“Around sixty kilometres from the Nadir point actual.†He reported crisply “it could be background…†he said trailing off “Wow, massive radiation and energy spike, we have a ship jumping in.†He reported quickly, nothing was due in the system “energy signature suggests a WarShip around two hundred thousand tons. I‘d say it was a Fredasa if I didn‘t know betterâ€
“Inform the Colonels on Outreach that we have incoming and have the Wolf Pack to be ready for incoming there also. Weapons warm up the forward cannons.â€
The smaller ship emerged from its Jump nearly forty kilometres from the Alexander and the crew were shocked to see it. The ship was pained nearly flat black with red highlights and a spider’s emblem on its back.
“Send them a challenge.â€
“This is Star Admiral Arnold McKenna of Clan Sea Fox; we need no assistance however I suggest you do not fire.â€
“This is Fleet Colonel Issola Chandra, commander of the Wolf’s Dragoons WarShip Alexander. We offer no assistance, what right do you have us to tell you what to do or not…â€
“Energy spike!†the sensor operator shouted interrupting her as a second WarShip entered the system this one far larger, far more deadly and far more recognisable as one of the most lethal WarShips in existence the Nightlord-class Battleship Terror of the Deep flagship of Clan Sea Fox.
“Battle stations; inform the planet we may need Star League intervention two Clan WarShips.â€
“You will not†McKenna said Chandra cursed herself for not noticing the communications was still active. “We are here to see the Wolf’s Dragoons Colonels, we are willing to fight if need be however we did not come here to fight you.â€
“What are your terms Star Commodore?†Issola asked even with the Wolf Pack the two Dragoon WarShips stood little chance against the two Sea Fox vessels.
“A single DropShip, Outpost-class, will proceed in system and land on Outreach, our party will meet with the Dragoon leadership to discuss a contract.â€
“And if these terms are refused?â€
“Then we will leave, Clan Sea Fox has no quarrel with the Wolf’s Dragoons today, perhaps in the future.â€
After several tense moments a communication returned from Outreach a single Clan DropShip was permitted to make landings on the planet under escort. The Outpost-class DropShip detached from the Terror of the Deep and made its way in-system to the planet landing on it three days later.
Contracts Building
Harlech City, Outreach
Star League Protectorate
13th May 3078
The landing of a single DropShip, even a Clan one, at Harlech’s main spaceport had not aroused any suspicion neither had the five BattleMechs that exited the vessel and been escorted into the city to one of the many contract negotiation buildings scattered around and in the Mercenary city, for today the Dragoons had sealed this particular building for their own purposes.
As the five Dragoon Colonels, two Lt Colonels and Michi Nocketsuna, head of the WolfNet, sat waiting they were surprised then a variety of uniforms entered the room and sat opposite them. Along with the two Sea Fox Warriors there was a warrior each from Clan Jade Falcon, Clan Hell’s Horses and the Dragoon’s parent Clan Wolf, the last person to enter was also the most recognisable she was saKhan Marialle Radick second in command of Clan Wolf.
“Welcome to Outreach, saKhan†Colonel Kelly Yukinov, commander of Alpha Regiment, said standing from his seat saluting her.
“I can nearly smell Terra†she whispered her eyes alive with hatred and desire.
“How can we be of assistance to the Clans today?â€
“Assistance that is what you Surat mercenaries do is it not, you sell your services to your employer.â€
“To the right employer, not to all.â€
“And are you, old man, the person I speak to hire the Dragoons?â€
“We are†Michi Nocketsuna said also rising from his seat, Marialle recognised him as an honourable warrior of the Draconis Combine and noted even the mighty could fall from grace.
“Then we have the right people, Wolf; sort this out so we can leave.†The Hell’s Horses Star Colonel said glancing at Marialle, the way he addressed her was almost an insult completely ignoring her superior rank, and it was also obvious he detested the Dragoons and what they stood for but also that he had not respect for the Wolves.
“Why are you here?†Michi asked again.
“We have had a small niggling problem in the last several months from a unit that attacks from nowhere and then disappears.â€
“The Opacus Venatori†Michi declared naming them in their Latin name “the Shadow Hunters, one of the Word of Blake’s last surviving remnants.â€
“Most recently this Shadow Hunters attacked the Ghost Bear Capital of Alshain causing thousands of deaths and continued the war with the Draconis Combine. The Ghost Bears will not listen to us, they see the Combine as dezgra and a sneak attack is exactly what they expected. I very much doubt they will believe your reborn Star League either, the Bear has been roused often it is only calmed by blood.†Marialle said looking from Michi to Kelly.
“We are aware of their attacks, what of them they are not a Dragoons’ problem†John Cavell said, he commanded the Wolf Spider Battalion Natasha Kerensky’s unit.
“And yet you have done nothing, typical of a Wolf†the Jade Falcon officer said.
“Enough of this†the Sea Fox warrior declared “Dragoons, everyone in this room is aware of your capabilities and your contacts throughout the Inner Sphere. The contacts built during the time you were sent to the Inner Sphere by our Clans.†He reminded them “these Opacus Venatori, as you call them have caused damage across Clan space escalating in each attack and I will bet they have attacked Inner Sphere targets as well. They originated in the Inner Sphere are an Inner Sphere problem, the Inner Sphere will fix this or we will be forced to.â€
“They are becoming bolder, despite the debacle facing the Bears on Alshain.†Michi said the Bears had gotten lucky but the Opacus had paid for it in blood. “I am surprised the Clans have allowed them to move so freely, and wonder why they have to be “forced†to act.†He pondered before the Clan warriors could answer John Cavell spoke.
“I’ll bid my Battalion against these Shadow Hunters; the Wolf Spider can track and destroy them.â€
“I’m glad to see the Wolf still beats in your heart, Major.†Marialle said smiling “the Fredesa-class WarShip we have taken with us was specially constructed by the Sea Fox Clan for this use; this WarShip is your mercenary’s payment for services rendered.†She revealled “and if the Opacus Venatori is not destroyed by the Wolf’s Dragoons we will come looking for our payment back.â€
“You gift us and then threaten Radick.†Kelly asked anger boiling in his veins he did not like an employer dictating a contract especially with a former employer like Clan Wolf.
“Only a fact, Colonel, unless you do not want the Fredesa? Clan Hell’s Horses could always use another WarShip.â€
“We do not take Wolf caste-offs†the Hell’s Horses warrior said quietly.
“What is your play Wolf?†Radick asked staring Kelly right in the face, eye to eye with the saKhan Kelly did not flinch.
“We’ll take your WarShip, and the Opacus Venatori just found themselves an adversary. Major Cavell your Wolf Spider Battalion just found a new home, our new toy will be your transport against the Opacus Venatori.†He said glancing at John then back at Marialle “now Wolf†he said using the saKhan’s title for the Dragoons “get off our planet.â€
“As you wish, we will be watching.†She said turning leaving followed by the Jade Falcon, Hell’s Horses and two Sea Fox warriors. Two days later the Terror of the Deep jumped clear of the system leaving the Fredesa in the hands of the Wolf’s Dragoons which they named Widow’s Lair in honour of Natasha Kerensky and of the Wolf Spider Battalion's mission.
Royal Palace
Augustine, Rousset-Marik Alliance
Former Free Worlds League
21st May 3078
Following years as adversaries the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and the Rousset-Marik Alliance meet on Augustine to begin talking about a united Free Worlds League once more. It begins with simple trade between the two nations with both sides agreeing to make allowances for the other and agreeing to each try and bring the other former nations of the Free Worlds League to the table at following meetings.
Clan Counter Attack
Koinz, Blair Atholl
Lyran Commonwealth
28th May 3078
In an attack authorized by Khan Phelan Kell Clan Wolf (in-Exile)’s Second Wolf Legion Cluster of Alpha Galaxy and the Second Wolf Grenadiers Cluster of Beta Galaxy are allowed to declare trials against Clan Jade Falcon forces on Koinz and Blair Athol.
The Second Wolf Grenadiers have no problem on Koinz capturing the world in a quick near bloodless trial against Clan Jade Falcon forces however it is another story for the Second Wolf Legion Cluster. On Blair Athol the Wolf (in-Exile) troops found the Seventy-fifth Striker Cluster of the Jade Falcon’s Kappa Galaxy, a second-line unit of poor reputation. The seventy-fifth refused to give the Exile troops an honourable trial and refused to fight openly with the Wolf forces instead a cat-and-mouse battle erupted a mile east of the capital in a group of caverns and woodland, the fighting did not remain confined there however and spilled into the city causing horrendous collateral damage and casualties. With the Seventy-fifth refusing to give up the Wolf (in-Exile) troops were forced to destroy the entire Cluster with no Jade Falcon survivors.
Port Simon Fleet Yards
Galax System, Crucis March
Federated Suns
12th June 3078
After a long and uneventful journey from Terra the Fire Fang finally arrives in the Galax system of the Federated Suns. Although the vessel will need another year of refitting before it is fully operational there are celebrations within the Federated Suns as another of the original Davion Block I-class Destroyers arrive back within a Federated Suns shipyard. During the journey Major Heaps and his team has discovered the vessel’s original name, the FSS Swordsworn, the AFFS Admiralty allow this vessel name to stay in history and maintain the name Fire Fang honouring the vessel’s deeds as a Clan and ComStar vessel.
The FSS Intrepid also moves into the Galax shipyards for refit. Upgraded to what they are describing as a Block-II the vessel will soon become a fully outfitted construction/maintenance vessel following its duties during the Fire Fang’s refit. The Intrepid’s crew and the engineers that had been assigned to the vessel are given extended shore leave for their efforts in returning the Intrepid to the shipyards.
Disputed Space, Arc Royal Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
19th June 3078
On the Lyran Clan border the Wolves in Exile and Jade Falcons clash again with heavy casualties on both sides. The Exiles are again the instigators in the fighting launching a strike at Goat’s Path and Antares both on the border with Lyran space both worlds fall to the Exiles in trials.
Two days later the Jade Falcons counter attack against further Lyran Commonwealth worlds taking Machida and Zhongshan. On Zhongshan the local militia and the Fighting Intellectuals Mercenary Company attempt to fight off the Clan assault, the First Falcon Lancers Cluster led by Loremaster Bryan Pryde destroys both units taking no prisoners. Jade Falcon WarShips are also spotted in the Chahar, Blue Hole, Pandora and Arcturus systems in a clear warning cease these attacks or they’d return.
By the end of the month Archon Peter Steiner-Davion sends a message to Khan Phelan Kell ordering his troops to stand down over their reprisal attacks against the Jade Falcons. Phelan Kell receives several messages from Duke Kelswa-Steiner on Skye supporting his troops reclaiming of Tamar Province worlds.
Fifth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
30th June 3078
House Davion has further to celebrate following the victory of Leftenant Anna Holmes, from the First Kestrel Grenadiers Independent BattleMech Regiment of the AFFS wins the competition in her Stealth OmniMech beating crowd favourite Alexander from Solaris’ Own Zellbrigen stables, piloting his customized Wraith. Before she left Solaris VII she was able to secure a pair of Zellbrigen stables Partial Wings she’d seen on Alexander’s Wraith in a private ‘Trial of Possession’ on returning to the Federated Suns Anna found herself whisked off to New Avalon for medals and a promotion to Captain.
Second Round Hell’s Horses Assaults
Clan Occupation Zones
2nd July 3078
With their neighbours backs turned Clan Hell’s Horses launches an assault into all three of the other Clan’s Occupation Zones. Led by saKhan Tanya DeLaurel in her brand new Balius Quad-OmniMech Eta, Theta, Iota and Kappa Galaxies of the Clan lead the assault with the primary Galaxies holding onto what they have left in the Inner Sphere. Zeta Galaxy remains as the Clan’s only Homeworlds defence with minimal support.
With Clan Wolf preparing deeper assaults into the Lyran Commonwealth chasing Clan Ghost Bear’s own very successful assaults with dreams of Terra saKhan DeLaurel saw an opportunity. Leading first with Eta and Theta Galaxies they struck at Steelton, Persistence and Winfield all worlds the Wolves had taken from Clan Jade Falcon effectively destroying all inroads they had made on their Jade Falcon neighbours. Only on Persistence did the Wolves put up significant resistance with the 103rd Striker Cluster of Gamma Galaxy fighting off against Eta Galaxies Thirty-fifth BattleMech Cluster supported by Omega Keshik. The presence of their saKhan and several of the new Cygnus-class Assault Mechs won the day for the invading Hell’s Horses force however the Wolf defenders lost no honour and great respect from saKhan DeLaurel.
Carrying on with Theta Galaxy saKhan DeLaurel on the 5th and 8th in lightning assaults the Hell’s Horses won two Jade Falcon worlds Maxie’s World and Romulus again with little resistance. For the warriors of Theta Galaxy it was nice to be involved in the combat and gain some Inner Sphere experience for the saKhan, she wanted more leaving Theta and Eta in position to secure worlds while she moved on with Omega Galaxy rendezvousing with Iota Galaxy in an unnamed system, the Hell’s Horses had chosen to avoid the pirate hole of Star’s End until they had significant WarShip support which they’d use to sterilise the entire world if necessary.
With Iota Galaxy’s Sixty-first and Sixty-ninth BattleMech Clusters saKhan DeLaurel landed troops on Icar on the 10th July and on New Caledonia on the 13th of July. Both battles lasted around two hours in traditional Clan trials before the saKhan left the clusters and moved on with the rest of Iota Galaxy and Omega Keshik. Following the arrival of reinforcements from the rest of Iota Galaxy on the 15th the saKhan pushed on once more, taking the Sixty-seventh BattleMech cluster and Omega Keshik and joining up with Kappa Galaxy and the WarShips Selipnir, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser, and the Mount Olympus, a Volga-class Transport. There Omega Keshik was completely refit for the saKhan’s last assault against the Wolves.
Deep within Wolf space travelling through unoccupied systems they arrived in the New Oslo system on the 22nd in space the Selipnir engaged the Wolf’s Moore’s Honour. The former Ice Hellion Essex-class Destroyer stood little chance of stopping the Battle-cruiser and stood down allowing the Hell’s Horses to engage. On the ground the whole of the Wolves own Omega Galaxy with five full Clusters waiting for the invading Hell’s Horses troops, the Wolf ground commander Stevic Hawker informed the Hell’s Horses command that his entire Galaxy was his first and last bid before cutting off communications.
Grounding on the 24th of July saKhan DeLaurel found her forces under attack from the moment they stepped from the DropShips the Wolves assaulting even the grounded DropShips unwilling to allow them to land. Providing the Wolf ground troops with long range support were at least three Trinaries of brand-new Sun Cobra medium BattleMechs produced at the New Oslo plant and piloted by raw unblooded warriors. Despite the hail of Gauss Rifle slugs saKhan DeLaurel ordered her troops forward making headway pushing through the Wolves disabling a star’s worth of the Sun Cobras however the accurate and constant Gauss Rifle fire was telling on the Hell’s Horses troops, two shots went into the saKhan’s Balius, the QuadMech took the well but the second hit struck and destroyed the Gyro leaving the Mech to sink to the ground uncontrollably. Although Tanya DeLaurel was able to avoid capture by a star of Clan Wolf Headhunter Elementals she knew that their fight on New Oslo and for this campaign was over, the Hell’s Horses retreated from the planet shortly afterwards.
Administration Building
San Nicholas, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Former Free Worlds League
13th July 3078
“Turn those damned militia troops over to my command and we’ll protect your little capital and keep your hands clean of the dirt of combat.â€
“Colonel, you know as well as I do that your Battalion are only on this world because of your units poor combat performance and low price how do you expect to hold back a Marian Hegemony assault? One that has already landed troops on five other worlds and does not look like it is ready to give in anytime soon.â€
“We may be here because our luck has been down, but may I remind you my people are the only thing between a bunch of former pirates on an ancient Roman cruise across the stars and the Marians still consider pillaging and raping targets as a valid option in war. If we resist, make them think twice, your leadership may survive this.â€
“Your people will be killed.â€
“I know†Colonel Maxwell Green admitted “everyone of them knows it too. But we’d rather go down swinging than surrender without a shot. My people will be facing off against the Marians. I’ll leave it to you if your armour joins us on the line and give your civilians half a chance of survival.†He said turning marching out of the building without saying another world, the governor had been right, the green machine only took this job because it was an easy garrison contract and they’d only been hired because Green Machine’s previous records didn’t allow them to call for much in the way of cash but still they were here and they’d do their job.
Leaving the building Green walked the short distance to his ancient Crusader BattleMech, the Mech had been long handed down in the Green family and despite Maxwell Green having no-one to hand it to he knew its legacy would outlive him even if he died today. Five minutes later she was inside the cockpit and brining the old Mech on-line. “Captain Slyghe, what is our status?â€
“Thirty BattleMechs all ready for combatâ€
“Only thirty?†He asked his unit fielded thirty-three Machines on their TO&E including his own.
“MechWarrior Grant is in the local lock-up the Governor had cut orders he was not to be released under any circumstances and MechWarrior Faulkner’s Stinger is not combat ready after the last training exercise.â€
“Tell her to take Grant’s Catapult.†He didn’t like taking one MechWarrior’s Mech for another but they needed every machine.
“Grant has locked his Mech down with three security protocols we can’t break them and he won’t give up the code.â€
“Damnit, can’t this lot see we’re in a life and death situation here the Marians have steamrolled the defences the outlying Duchy worlds we’re their first major Mech test.â€
“What about the militia?â€
“The governor hasn’t decided.â€
“That’s great, he’s sentenced us to death.†Captain Phyllis Margrove said butting in, by her slurred speech and her Marauder’s movements were restricted.
“Listen up the lot of you, if we surrender we’re as good as dead the Marians will happily take our Mechs and be done with it so I’ll leave it to you to decide fight and have a chance or be dispossessed.†No one replied they all knew his words were the truth “I’ll take the stinging silence as you want to fight? Good, stick together watch each other’s backs and let’s go kick some periphery arse.â€
“Incoming DropShips, I count six Union-class†MechWarrior Rebecca Lopez shouted out, that put the enemy at upto of six companies in strength.
“Advance units have hot-dropped, we have a company incoming.â€
“Hold together people, fire at will, combine on targets as long as we have numerical superiority. And may god have mercy on our souls.†Green said targeting an incoming Wasp light Mech, “eat it†Green said triggering his long range missiles causing light damage to the twenty ton Mech’s leg and torso. Across the line Green Machine Mechs were firing their weapons however as Colonel Green followed up on the Wasp with a second volley of missiles on the Wasp he saw a Mercury from Charlie Company fall under three PPC blasts from a Marian Awesome. Turning on the incoming assault Mech Green began to run at the Mech brining his old Mech up past sixty kilometres an hour for the first time in many years - Green past his eighty-second birthday two weeks before smiled as he closed on the Mech finally he was back in real combat. Firing short range missiles and lasers as he closed Green felt the heat raising but ignored it closing to point blank with the Awesome getting inside its minimum range bracket he planted two punches into the side of the Awesome smiling as he saw his Mech’s right first crush one of the PPCs on the Awesome. The massive eighty ton Mech turned still standing following this savage physical attack and fired its two PPCs at point blank range the blasts tore into Green’s Crusader, the sixty-five ton Mech shook under the attack but Green didn’t care punching again this time adding his leg SRM launchers into it as well he was intent on destroying the biggest Mech he’d seen so far, giving his unit a chance of life.
Up above someone must have been smiling on Colonel Maxwell Green maybe it was his long dead wife Elizabeth or maybe the Almighty himself as Maxwell Green continued his dance with the Awesome for a good minute finally downing the massive assault Mech with a punch that went straight through the Awesome’s cockpit. Battling to avoid heat shut down he walked his Mech back towards his battered command “Captain Slyghe, statusâ€
“We’re down… sir watch out!†She suddenly screamed Maxwell Green turned to see a smaller fast moving Mech charging towards him firing his lasers he tried to slow it however the Mech swung its massive blade at Green’s Mech hitting the left shoulder severing the limb where it was, as the blade drew back it stuck the cockpit shorting out half of Green’s life support. Charging forward Green literally steamrolled the Ghurkha BattleMech crushing the thirty-five ton Mech under his Crusader’s feet before the Crusader itself fell to the ground. “Colonel please respond, Colonel Green do you hear me.â€
“Yes, Rhe, I hear you†he said to his XO his Crusader wouldn’t be fighting much longer but at least it was warm. That stopped Green his Mech hadn’t fired weapons for a good minute it shouldn’t be warm… he glanced down and noticed his coolant vest was punctured in the gut by a large support from the frame of the cockpit now he felt the pain too. Trying to ignore it he brought his Mech to standing point “Rhe, how are we doing?â€
“Down three Mechs including Captain Margrove she took two Marians with her if that counts.â€
“What about… the militia?†he wheezed fighting the pain
“Nothing yet, sir, please report statusâ€
“Fine so be it…†he said struggling to speak. “…we’ll fall back to the treeline… there we’ll have a little… a little cover.â€
“Sir, are you alright?â€
“Sure just a bit winded. Move out people we have a battle to win.†He said his Crusader struggling to keep up he noticed Rheannon Slyghe’s Bushwhacker staying close to him. “I’ll manage Captain, no need to worry.â€
“Not worried just putting up a united face of our enemies.†Moments later she turned they were still three hundred metres from the trees and the Marians were catching them. “Three full companies, I see two of armour behind that. We’re in trouble boss.â€
“I’ll take care of them, take the unit to the rear in the trees, engage from cover, set fires if you can it’ll hold up there armour.†He suggested
“You’ll never get within range.â€
“I’ll slow them†he said putting the pain to the back of his mind he charged forward in his one armed battered Crusader Slyghe’s Bushwhacker standing with the rest of the unit watching as he closed on the Periphery troops.
“Colonel, change direction minus forty degrees east current direction.†Came another voice over the Green Machine band, out of reflex Colonel Green did so. There moving directly for the periphery troops was MechWarrior Grant’s Catapult surrounded by militia armour nearly a full Battalion in the air several combat VTOLs provided further support, Green recognized the voice as Grant himself.
“I though you were in the local lock-up?â€
“The Governor just didn’t want me leaving without a proper military escort sir.â€
“Very good, link up with Slyghe and the rest of our people I’ll take the militia in.â€
“Negative Colonel, we’re right behind you†Slyghe said her Bushwhacker already running alongside him “the Green Machine fights as one, and if need be we go down as one.†Despite the pain from his stomach wound Colonel Green smiled his unit was finally coming together and in their greatest time of need.
Less than ten minutes later the Marians had been pushed back and broken, two of their Union-class DropShips had been destroyed the other four captured by the militia and the remaining Green Machine machines. However Colonel Maxwell Green was not with his victorious troops instead he was in a militia hospital about to be rushed into emergency surgery beside him was Rheannon Slyghe his XO and truth be told the real reason they’d won today, Green had known she was great when he hired her on Outreach aged just nineteen. “Rhe, listen to me very carefullyâ€
“I’ll listen to you when you come out of surgery.â€
“No damn it, listen now!†Green demanded “I’m not coming out of this one, but we did it Green Machine is back on the right track and I got one last win.â€
“You’ll have plenty more†Rheannon said quietly
“No, Elizabeth is calling me†Maxwell Green said quietly “my will is in the safe in my desk code 16-06-67 your orders are there, Major†he said before coughing up blood and going into cardiac arrest.
“Get him into surgery now!!†The doctors screamed but it was too late, an hour later after fruitless attempts at brining him back from the brink Colonel Maxwell Green was proclaimed dead.
In the following days the Governor would call Maxwell Green and the Green Machine heroes of San Nicholas but it did not hide the fact he was dead. Rheannon Slyghe in the presence of two other members of the Green Machine opened the safe - Green’s combination Rheannon’s enlistment date - the orders inside confirmed Rheannon’s promotion to Major and full command/ownership of the Green Machine Mercenary Command.
Wolf Spider Ground base
Downtown, Galatea City
Galatea, Lyran Commonwealth
23rd July 3078
Not wanting to restrict themselves to purely Wolf’s Dragoons sources the Wolf Spider Battalion had moved to Galatea to search for sources and information regarding the Opacus Venatori. Because they wanted the Widow’s Lair a secret as long as possibly they’d initially travelled to the planet via commercial JumpShip whilst the WarShip had jumped in at a pirate point about a day from Galatea. There were no Lyran WarShips stationed in the system and the Widow’s Lair was off any usual trade routes so no-one noticed the presence of the lonely WarShip.
“Newest burst from the Widow’s Lair, nothing new from Outreach no new attacks in the Inner Sphere or on the Clan Occupation Zones, unfortunately nothing new we can use.†Captain Ian Macintosh commander of the Spider Trinary said.
“Things are quiet here on Galatea as well†Stacy Church said “I have the Black Widows Trinary scouring downtown for leads, nothing yet.â€
“Has anyone else picked up anything?†John Cavell commander of the Wolf Spider Battalion said quietly seeing blank faces.
“Because there is nothing to know, Major†came a sneering voice over loud speakers. “You Dragoons have always looked at the wrong place and caused more trouble than you were worth. Time for that to end!†John Cavell looked up at the warehouse windows and saw a moving shadow.
“Everybody Down Now!†But his shouted warning came too late as a huge BattleMech slammed through the wall sending bricks and mortar flying everywhere Captain Dirk Samuels, commander of the Tarantula Trinary, was crushed under flying debris.
“Time for your little hunt to come to a disastrous end.†The voice said again the Red-and-White Mech firing PPCs at the warriors and the stored Wolf Spider Mechs, Captain Church’s Timber Wolf took a hit to the chest, the Timber Wolf falling over crushing two more warriors of the Battalion.
“Everybody scatter, Spider One to all Spiders we need back up! All units clear out to the DropShip!â€
“Cavell the Widows are still out there, there Mechs are sitting targets!†Stacy Church screamed her own Mech was already being crushed into the ground by the enemy Mech.
“Forget it Stacy, let’s get as many of our people clear of this turkey shoot before we lose the entire Battalion.†Over the next ten minutes the attacking Mech destroyed eight more of the Wolf Spider’s BattleMechs before retreating. John Cavell and the rest of the Wolf Spiders retreated to the DropShip, in all they had lost nine MechWarriors mostly from Tarantula Trinary, the surviving warriors were reassigned to the Black Widow and Spider Trinary however the Wolf Spider Battalion had lost a third of their number and been given a major defeat.
-
Disputed Territory
Blair Atoll, Lyran Commonwealth
4th August 3078
The Jade Falcons raid recently lost Blair Atoll led by Loremaster Bryan Pryde’s First Falcon Lancers Cluster, in his Jupiter Assault Mech, they fight off against a Wolf (in-Exile) Cluster containing several Ryoken II BattleMechs and a pair of Cygnus Assault Mechs. Although no territory is exchanged between the two Clans this fight will likely be remembered because out of both units only two OmniMechs are included in the fight despite both sides being rated as front-line.
Some Inner Sphere analysts predict this is because the Clans have had to leave advanced manufacturing techniques in the Clan Homeworlds and supply lines are stretched. While others believe that the Clans are simply adapting to the needs of manufacturing larger amounts of units lost fighting against Inner Sphere forces. Both sides agree that while these “less†advanced BattleMechs are not a match for their OmniMech predecessors the new designs by the Clans are no less deadly and the Clans are still a major threat.
Main Body Return
Steel Viper Assaults
Clan Homeworlds
22nd August 3078
The battered, rejected main body of Clan Steel Viper returns to the Clan Homeworlds beaten badly in the Inner Sphere they find their Homeworlds forces are also being attacked. Going straight on the offensive the Steel Vipers target the Hell’s Horse garrison on Tiber.
In the system the Steel Vipers maliciously attack the Carrack-class Transport Golden Clydesdale destroying the transport without even considering allowing the vessel to surrender. On the planet the Steel Vipers find only the 888th Mechanized Strike Cluster of Clan Hell’s Horses Beta Galaxy, offering no quarter the Hell’s Horses the Steel Vipers 195th Assault Cluster destroyed all remnants of the Hell’s Horses unit, the find several advanced vehicle designs worth salvaging amongst the Hell’s Horses unit however the bases are stripped nearly completely of supplies and fittings and large portions of the Hell’s Horses civilians are also missing.
Tessalonika, Disputed Territory
Ghost Bear Dominion
24th August 3078
The Second Genyosha Regiment supported by Covenant’s Commandos and the First Kearny Highlanders, of the Northwind Highlanders Mercenary Brigade; assault Tessalonika in the Ghost Bear Dominion. The world is defended by the Second Claw Cluster, Zeta Galaxy, and the Seventeenth Provisional Cluster, Theta Galaxy; the Ghost Bears are steadily driven back until the Seventeenth Provisional is no longer combat effective the Second Claw fall back into a resistance styled defence.
Soverzine, Disputed Territory
Ghost Bear Dominion
29th August 3078
Continuing the Combine counter-attack against Clan Ghost Bear the rebuilt and reinforced First Sword of Light Regiment supported by the Always Faithful Mercenary Regiment, the Crimson’s Crusaders and the Clifton’s Rangers Mercenary Commands launches an assault against Soverzine across the Combine/Ghost Bear border nearest the Irece Prefecture.
On planet they find the Eight Bear Regulars Theta Galaxy, a green rated command, and the Tenth Bear Regulars Cluster Xi Galaxy. The Bear commander believes in straight up fighting and so challenges the Combine/Mercenary force to a stand-up fight which the Inner Sphere forces agree to. The next day they meet on the rolling hills of the southern continent however the Clan force soon finds itself out gunned and out manoeuvred and is soon encircled. When Star Colonel Jessica Carns, Eighth Bear Regulars, attempts to surrender the world she is gunned down by Combine MechWarriors as both Regular Clusters are cut to pieces under Combine and mercenary guns.
Disputed Territory
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
FWL/Periphery
4th/5th September 3078
Rallied to a cause by the Marian Hegemony attacks against their nation the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby turned on the Periphery State. Captain-General Jeremy Brett directing several Tamarind Militia Regiments supported by mercenary commands and WarShips against the invading Marian forces.
On the 4th September the First Tamarind Militia supported by the Heart of Blake Mercenary Command and escorted by the Impavido-class Destroyer Tamarind the units hit Landfall, in less than one hour their periphery opponents were in full retreat. Alongside this assault the Second Tamarind Militia supported by The Furies Armour Mercenary Regiment attacked Hazeidean another of the lost worlds like the First Militia the unit has the full backing of an Impavido-class Destroyer which hopelessly outclasses any air assets the Marians can field. With air superiority lost immediately the Marian resistance crumbles within two hours of fighting on the ground.
One day later the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby not wanting to allow the Marian Hegemony forces any chance of preparing for the follow up assaults the Impavido-class Therese Brett-Marik supports the Fourth Tamarind Militia Regiment and the Harlock’s Warriors Mercenary Command in liberating Huntington. Again almost a direct copy of the previous assaults the Therese Brett-Marik cuts off Marian aerospace assets from providing cover and destroys two of the periphery DropShips from orbit cutting off the units retreat. On the ground the mixed Duchy and mercenary force make short work of the local defenders and once again Huntington is a Duchy of Tamarind-Abby world.
Not happy just to take back what had been lost the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby wanted to show the periphery nation of its mistakes Colonel Photon Brett-Marik leading the Second Tamarind-Abby Guards Regiment supported by several conventional regiments assaults Reykavis just over the border in Marian Hegemony space. During the burn in the MHS Caesar jumps into the system the Dart-class Light Cruiser immediately attacking the Jeremy Brett, the Duchy’s escorting Impavido-class Destroyer. The Jeremy Brett holds off the previously damaged MHS Caesar, which is showing the lack of proper maintenance and supplies of any WarShip in the Periphery too long. Colonel Photon Marik order his people forward and they head for the planet’s surface. On the ground they complete the destruction of the V Legio which the Green Machine began on San Nicholas destroying the remaining Marian Hegemony troops on planet welcoming another world into the Duchy.
Caesar Julius O’Reilly orders all forces to rally around Alphard in case the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby decides that they need to wipe out the small nation. Marian Hegemony forces leave picket forces in the occupied Magistracy of Canopus and Niops worlds.
Within days of the withdrawal by Marian forces the Magistracy of Canopus regains control of all its lost worlds strengthening the borders while the Niops Association unveil several hidden Power Armour and BattleMech units to overpower the Marians liberating their own conquered nation.
Trade Mission
Broken Wheel
Filtvelt Coalition
22nd September 3078
“Excuse me, Commander, I need your warriors to keep a tight cordon on this area, we cannot have the locals just wondering in and stealing our technology and our trade goods.â€
“It is Colonel†the warrior said staring back at the man, he wasn’t Clan a native of what used to be the Tortuga Dominions taken in by the Clan because of his trading skill.
“What?â€
“It is Colonel, as in Star Colonel, your commanding officer show some respect you stavag periphery pig!â€
“Now then Colonel, we’re all part of a big happy family you scratch my back and I’ll help you. I’m sure you’ve noticed at least one or two things here that take your fancy?†He said then noticing the arrival of the main Filtvelt Coalition trade party completely forgot the Star Colonel “here they come! Time for me to work, we’ll talk later.â€
“No we will not.†He said the man smiled but Trent did not continue instead raising his communicator to his mouth “Higall to all Lost Ones execute Operation ORANGE.†He said all around warriors, Mechs and vehicles turned their weapons on traders from the Nova Cats and from the Filtvelt Coalition. Some tried to draw weapons and were cut down immediately the Master Trader turned back to Trent Higall who had also drawn his side arm.
“Why?â€
“I am tired of you, and I am tired of peace. It is time I died like a Clan Warrior in battle.†He said his finger closing on the trigger.
“Or died like a pirate†the master trader whispered as the bullet fired from the Star Colonel’s gun and blew his head off. All around the warriors of the Fifteenth Battle Cluster were executing traders; it was over in less than a minute. Star Captain Katherine came running up to Higall who still stood over the Master Trader’s body.
“Sir, operation successful shall we begin reloading the DropShips? Sir!†She said stronger breaking him from his thoughts.
“Yes, of course, break camp load the DropShips have two Aerospace Fighters buzz the local HPG Building level it and have our perimeter guards ensure that no Coalition troops decide that we need to be dealt with contact the Space Fairer and tell them we are on our way CASE BLACK DRAGON is in effect.†She nodded it was a phrase they’d stolen from the Draconis Combine, it meant simply that the Cluster had turned its backs on Clan Nova Cat’s leadership and that there would be no going back from now on, they were on their own.
Three hours later the goods loaded into their three DropShips the renegade warriors lifted off Broken Wheel before the Filtvelt Coalition defenders could react they rendezvoused with their fourth DropShip in orbit and headed for their Odyssey-class JumpShip leaving the system shortly after. The inability for the local defences to react to this threat worries parts of the local population as the Nova Cats are a real threat not just a passing one posed by this renegade group. Many of the local Broken Wheel population begin to question whether leaving the Federated Suns was their best course of action.
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End of Contract
Outreach, Star League Protectorate
3rd October 3078
The Wolf’s Dragoons officially end their contract with the Federated Suns with the last units leaving Galax and New Avalon heading back to Outreach for rest and refit. Because of continuing operations to track down the Opacus Venatori the Dragoon Colonels agree that no further contracts will be taken in the short to mid term.
Trade Post
Detroit, Fronc Reaches
13th October 3078
During a simple trade mission between Clan Nova Cat and the Fronc Reaches merchants on Detroit the Protector’s Guardians, a Taurian Concordat regiment raids the planet intent on capturing several newly built BattleMechs from the Detroit factory. Initially the Nova Cat defence force escorting the traders’ remains out of the fight however following a stray artillery strike on one of the Clan’s Mule-class Transports the mixed Trinary of Nova Cat troops launch a flanking attack on Taurian Regiment in support of the Fronc Reaches Colonial Marshals.
The warriors of the Nova Cat’s One hundredth Strike Cluster successfully take out the Taurians artillery company losing three of their members in the process abandoning a Huntsman OmniMech in the process. During the Nova Cat retreat back to their lines Subaltern Erik Martens-Calderon’s Battle Armour squad attacks a trailing Elemental group with disastrous results. Four members of Erik’s six man unit are killed by the Elementals and Erik is knocked unconscious as his Bruce Assault Armour suit is picked up and thrown by one of the Nova Cat warriors. The Nova Cat traders and their defence unit retreat from the world shortly afterwards. Erik is recovered by his regiment but he is deeply troubled by recent events, in his eyes the Taurian people have a new threat that is more dangerous even than House Davion.
High Orbit
Toffen, Rasalhague Dominion
20th October 3078
Aboard the DCS Nagato, the Draconis Combine’s Yamato-class Battleship Warlord Minoru Kurita meets with Khan Bjorn Jorgensson and Elected Prince Ragnar Magnesson representing the newly minted Rasalhague Dominion.
During the talks Bjorn Jorgensson insists that his Ghost Bear Dominion is now the Rasalhague Dominion a sovereign state within the Inner Sphere and that the Draconis Combine will respect them as such. Minoru Kurita becomes the first leader of the Inner Sphere to formally, and publicly, recognise the Rasalhague Dominion as an Inner Sphere state and not a Clan Occupation Zone. With this agreement the Ghost Bear leadership agree to put an end to the fight between the two nations.
Industrial Zone
Malagrotta, Malagrotta Combat Zone
Crucis March, Federated Suns
30th October 3078
A new pirate band land on the planet raiding Malagrotta’s light industrial zone for supplies when challenged these Liger Warriors refuse to communicate with the local militia forcing a confrontation. The sheer amount of Clan technology seen within the unit makes it obvious this is not a regular unit the local militia commander Leftenant-General Arnold Maddox requests and receives support from the Governors personnel bodyguard forces which includes a company of brand-new ARB-001 Arbiter Combat IndustrialMechs the governor had purchased specially from Meridian Manufacturing on New St Andrews for his own bodyguard.
The Ligers intentionally single out the Arbiters capturing one of these Mechs trying to determine their exact capabilities while destroying the rest of the company. After raiding the factories capturing several thousand tons of parts and materials including capturing a Wasp and a classic Phoenix Hawk BattleMech they retreat from the system.
Joint HPG Announcement
Marik/Augustine
Former Free Worlds League
2nd November 3078
Standing at a podium on Augustine Duchess Alys Rousset-Marik stepped in front of the masses of Augustine. Her world had suffered greatly in recent years with bombardment and further troubles but they had persevered and her people were still free from all oppression. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I will make a brief statement however there will be no questions due to the sensitive nature of what I will announce.†She began with the standard Augustine briefing speech, the local press should know by now not to expect to ask questions she briefly thought.
“For the past several months The Rousset-Marik Alliance has been in negotiations with our neighbouring Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.†She said immediately shock was a good tool when used right. “Although our nations have had our problems we are both members of the greater Free Worlds League and recently have treated each other with the amount of respect we should expect.†She said proving that she had not sold her nation short.
“With our discussions at advanced stages I can announce that an open, free trade, agreement has been made with the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth businesses from both sides of the border and a mutual defence pact between our nations.†She said outlining both halves of the agreement she and Corrine Marik had agreed on.
“Politically we are two nations within the greater Free Worlds League and though we disagree on the correct path of our greater nation it is my wish that this agreement will lead to a reunification of the greater Free Worlds League under one banner, allowing our House to retake its position among the nations of the Inner Sphere. Perhaps it will be in my daughters time that our nation sees the rebirth of the Free Worlds League but we will have to wait and see.â€
“I thank you for your time, god bless the people of Augustine and the Rousset-Marik Alliance†she said stepping out of the limelight as per usual there were the flurry of questions shouted at her back none that would be answered for now. Most were directed at her last comment about her daughter who had until now been hidden away behind the stage Quinn Ana Rousset her ten year old was stood smiling, during her time out of the limelight Alys had trained her in many forms including deception and how to speak to people and now she’d been shown how to pull off a master stroke, the papers would be about one thing for the next week Quinn. While the pact would be signed and completely out of the press which had been the plan since Alys had decided to hold this conference, she knew that Corrine Marik would be holding a similar conference on Marik but also that she didn’t have massive revelations to cover her announcement, which would cause more trouble in the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth than the ‘Captain-General’ wanted.
Press Conference
Luthien Armour Works, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
5th November 3078
The Duchess of Augustine was not the only one who was making grand announcements to the public. Across the Inner Sphere in the Draconis Combine on Luthien the primary weapons producer was also making an announcement. With the end of the War with the newly minted Rasalhague Dominion the DCMS was in a state of rebuilding and so the Luthien Armour Works was ready to unveil its newest product for the DCMS exclusive use.
The RYO-O-P Ryoken KU OmniMech was a direct copy of the Clan OmniMech of the same name unlike recent Clan developments such as the Jupiter, Cygnus and even the Ghost Bear’s new Ryoken II this Mech was the same tonnage as its Clan brother, it matched its performance with inferior Inner Sphere equipment and already thirteen separate weapon configurations available this would soon be one of the primary OmniMechs in service with the DCMS with planned assignments in the Sword of Light and Genyosha regiments.
The Draconis Combine Mustered Society High Command take this opportunity to announce that a new Inazuma II-class Corvette will begin production at Draconis Combine shipyards very shortly to further boost flagging numbers of Draconis Combine WarShips. Further boosting the DCMS’ power and the public image of Warlord Minoru Kurita.
Naval Engagement
Huntress system, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
8th November 3078
What had been a simple raid between enclaves had spiralled into a full blown conflict between Clan Coyote and Clan Steel Viper in the Huntress system. Though the Steel Vipers held numerical superiority on the ground they had a larger amount of ground to defend while the Coyotes were more than happy to pick at them.
When the Steel Viper’s Dark Asp, one of the mighty Nightlord-class Battleships, had arrived in system and driven off Coyote naval assets and supply carriers the Coyotes had dug in and called in their own Nightlord, the Great Coyote Spirit. For three days the two WarShips had burned towards each other before meeting in a dead region of the system between Huntress and the system’s star.
Although kings in their own right the two vessels found themselves matched, the crews as equal in skill as the ships were in firepower. As naval grade weaponry was exchanged between the two vessels DropShips and fighters from both sides exchanged fire in a great melee not seen in Clan space for years.
As the ships manoeuvred the Dark Asp was able to damage the Great Coyote Spirit’s aft port engines causing the craft to move erratically towards the Dark Asp. Not knowing the vessel’s intentions and themselves heavily burdened by heat build up something/or someone aboard the Dark Asp broke and the K-F Jump drive fired. A sudden radiation spike and both vessels were gone leaving their fighters and DropShips alone in the system. With both capital ships gone and no-one knowing if they had even survived the jump both sets of DropShips and fighters agreed both had lost too much to continue landing in separate areas on Huntress.
An extensive search of Clan space found no sign of either Nightlord-class vessel, after a week and no sign both Clans marked the vessels down as lost in action and tried to move on from this massive loss. Rumours from the battle and from sensor data seemed to suggest the Great Coyote Spirit had also initiated a jump at the same time however these were written off as such an event would have been suicidal for both vessels.
Pirate Attacks
Norman’s World/Hobson
Taurian Concordat/Federated Suns border
14th/26th November 3078
On the 14th November new pirate band/renegade clan force the Liger Warriors raided Norman’s World on the Taurian Concordat border with the Federated Suns finding nothing worth taking and no opposition worth fighting they moved onto their next target.
Two weeks later the Liger Warriors appeared deep within the Federated Suns’ Capellan March raiding the system of Hobson just one jump clear of New Syrtis itself. In the system their Carrier-class DropShip and its fighters engaged an AFFS fighter squadron escorting three cargo DropShips towards the Jump point. All six defending aerospace fighters along with two of the Liger’s fighters and two of the DropShips, the third DropShip a Mammoth-class vessel was disabled and boarded by the Ligers. Aboard they found six brand-new Dagger OmniFighters and several crates of Light Autocannons all bound for the Wolf’s Dragoons as a parting gift from the AFFS for five long years of service.
The Ligers not massive fans of the Wolf’s Dragoons seized all six fighters and the Light Autocannons before scuttling the DropShip. Their Odyssey-class JumpShip left the system only minutes before the FSS New Syrtis, a Fox-class Corvette, arrived in the system. This blatant act of piracy by a Clan equipped force put the whole AFFS Capellan March on Medium Alert to keep an eye on all incoming traffic.
Mechbay 6, Mercenary Quarter
Old Connaught, Arc-Royal
Arc-Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
28th November 3078
On Arc-Royal the Wolf’s Dragoons Wolf Spider Battalion had been able to gain an entire Mech hanger in the Mercenary Quarter outside Arc-Royal; Major Cavell had negotiated with the Kell Hounds for new supplies and been able to buy several new Mechs. Two Dragoon warriors had even Challenged Clan Wolf (in-Exile) to trials for their Mechs which surprisingly the Clan warriors had accepted without hesitation, MechWarrior Lucien Cusick had failed in his Trial and was now a Wolf (in-Exile) bondsman but MechWarrior Francine, one of the Dragoon children bred through the sibkos of Outreach, had succeeded in claiming a Dire Wolf Assault OmniMech much to the surprise of the Wolf (in-Exile) troops.
Captain Stacy Church had been tempted to join the other warriors in testing herself against the Clansmen but Major Cavell had told her to keep her time for the Opacus Venatori and that he’d replace her fallen Mech. What Cavell had not told her was what he’d return with and what Stacy saw did not impress her, it was a brand-new Zeus. The Zeus was a popular Lyran assault Mech but did nothing to impress Stacy who was used to her Clan OmniMech, her tech came walking over as she surveyed the Mech which was being repainted in Wolf Spider colours. “Well?â€
“It’s horrible.†He said
“Elaborate, what has Cavell got me into?â€
“Well Capt’n you’ve got a heavy LB autocannon in the Left arm good for beating the crap out the enemy two tons of ammo keep you going but they are in the right torso.†He said meaning the ammo would go all around the Mech to the cannon “I can fix it but it’ll take a week or so.†He said gesturing to the right arm “there you have a Combine build Heavy Particle Cannon, good punch crap range.†He said she nodded the cannon had as good a punch as a Clan weapon but the range suffered greatly “in each torso you have a single Extended-Range Medium-class laser for exploiting the holes the others make.â€
“What else?†She demanded four weapons on an assault Mech even an Inner Sphere machine was a joke.
“No weapons you have Light Ferro Fibrous armour protecting a light Engine and something called the Blue Shield Project.â€
“Never heard of itâ€
“It’s one of the NAIS’s toys that barely got off the drawing board don’t know how the Kell Hounds got one but it basically reduces a PPC’s blast to about half the normal.†Stacy nodded that was nice especially since several Opacus Mechs carried PPC weapons “it gets a bit junked up but I think I know how to keep it clear enough to keep it workable. The second toy this thing carries is an AES in the Left Arm giving your PPC its very own targeting computer.†He said Stacy wasn’t completely aware of the Actuator Enhancement System’s properties but she’d look it up sooner rather than later.
“So what can you do with her for me?â€
“Well straight away I can give you the ammo for the LB in the right side along with the CASE bin shouldn’t be difficult maybe take a week depending on how long until you need it in combat. If we’re lucky I’ll be able to steal a Clan Extended-Range PPC give you some range as well as punch as well as a couple of extra tons. What I really want is a Clan AC for that LB its eating tonnage and space but not much chance of that here. The Blue Shield and AES are worth keeping at least for now until you get to try them out.†He said and without another word walked off.
“Thanks a lot Major†Stacy muttered
“Don’t mention it Captain†Cavell said from beside her she hadn’t even noticed him “not the prettiest of Mechs but enough to get you on your feet and started again until we go back to Outreach.â€
“Yes, sir, I’m guessing not a social call?â€
“Negative, orders the Opacus Venatori struck Marik two days ago lifting an entire Battalion of Mechs and levelling an Iran owned factory, we’ve been invited into Clan space.â€
“Damn, the Colonel will rise from the ashes if we go back there as will the Widowmaker.†Stacy said mentioning Jamie Wolf and Natasha Kerensky without by legacy alone the Dragoons had plenty history with the Free Worlds League.
“Aye, but we’ll get the job done Stacy†Cavell said wandering off
“Into the Breach of Hell†Stacy said looking at her new Mech, soon be time for that test drive she thought.
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Interstellar News Network
Chicago, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
3rd December 3078
“Good Evening Ladies and Gentlemen, I’m Caroline Jackson and I’m here to bring you the newest gossip straight from Terra and around the Inner Sphere.†Caroline said looking at the Tri-Vid camera the Interstellar News Network had been an idea of ComStar’s originally aimed at brining the Inner Sphere news from the Clan front and from around the Inner Sphere keeping everyone informed and safe. As the years had gone by and the Star League had grown in strength and importance the INN had introduced new channels in several different languages and had even tried to break into the Clan markets by broadcasting on the Clan’s Chatterweb frequencies although the Clans had so far rebuffed official status as users of INN.
One such channel was Earth Weekly one of Terra’s most popular Celebrity programmes and hosted by Caroline Jackson a native of the windy city itself Chicago. “Tonight my main story comes from my hometown Chicago, as the Interstellar States which became the Succession Realms were formed many cities on Terra became depopulated and overgrown, in many ways the windy city did the opposite as other cities were empties in the original Exodus from Terra or were gutted by the fighting of the Reunification War Chicago thrived. Though the Usurper tried to bring its inhabitants to heel the City continued to produce some of the best automobiles, Mechs and Fighters the Inner Sphere has ever seen. Even following the Star League’s Exodus of the Inner Sphere the city continued to work under the guise of ComStar where nearly seventy-five percent of the inhabitants were employed by the Order in some capacity - a figure higher than almost any other City barring Hilton Head and Geneva.†She said changing direction to face another Camera “However never did Chicago gain the prominence of other cities on Terra. Until maybe now, INN has learned that as of the beginning of 3079 Chicago University, one of the oldest and biggest Campuses on Terra will be welcoming a very special man to its student and lecture body. Doctor David Lear, son of famous Clan War Veteran, Solaris Champion, St Ives Compact Prime Minister and current First Lord Duke Kai Allard-Liao. Dr Lear a recent graduate of St Ives University will be studying at Chicago as well as partaking in select presentations, the single twenty-eight year old is considered by many to be the premier mind of the current era much like his father was the premier warrior of his own. I hope all Terrans will join me in welcoming him to our world, and that he enjoys his time within the cradle of humanity.â€
Trial Grounds
Ceres Metal Industries Complex
Warlock, St Ives Compact
8th December 3078
The main factories of the St Ives Compact outside those on the capital St Ives came under heavy aerospace fighter assault and bombing by six crimson painted Dagger OmniFighters followed by a dedicated ground assault force made up of primarily Clan machines. The defending Second St Ives Lander Regiment moved to engage these forces however they could not stop the attacking unit claiming three newly built Highlander BattleMechs, one Emperor BattleMech and a single stealth armour equipped Marauder BattleMech.
Although the St Ives Lancers harried the enemy attackers for several kilometres felling two Mechs, gutting three vehicles and crushing several Elemental warriors in the process the pirate force later identified as the Liger Warriors - who had plagued the Federated Suns and Taurian Concordat - escaped the world and eluded capture.
On a brighter note for the St Ives Lancers and for the St Ives Compact Duchess Cassandra Rubinsky nee Allard-Liao gave birth to twin sons during the fighting which she named Justin and Marko Rubinsky for the babies passed grandfathers.
Lucky Two, Explorer-class JumpShip
Uncharted System, Former Free Worlds League
18th December 3078
After six months charting the unknown systems around the Rim Commonality in the former Free Worlds League the Lucky Two, named as such as a Lucky One had to exist somewhere, was heading home to its base world of Lesnovo. When it jumped into another uncharted system and almost immediately its sensor lit up.
“What on earth is that?â€
“Radio communications, and it appears space stations deeper in the systemâ€
“You’re joking?â€
“Negative, and we have fighters incoming six Vulcan Aerospace Fighters!â€
“What the hell? Launch the Less and Nova†he said naming the Explorers’ two Aquarius Escort Ships “And power our own lasers†he said the Explorer had long ago been armed with ten Small Lasers which weren’t much use in combat but gave the crew more than nothing. The two Aquarius and their crews were the JumpShip’s only real defence against the incoming fighters. “Are they saying anything?â€
“Not to us, maybe each other their encryptions are ancient.â€
“Well get onto them, I don’t plan on declaring war on the system that everyone forgot!†He said his crewmen nodded the captain rechecked the charts, this system wasn’t marked.
“I got themâ€
“Put them onâ€
“This is Captain Puck Salzburg commander of the Second Squadron of the Trinity Moons Defence Navy, you will identify yourself and why you have attacked this sovereign Free Worlds League Nation, or you will be destroyed.â€
“What the hell?†The Lucky Two’s chief engineer asked from the entrance to the bridge, just what had they fallen into?
“Captain, this is Captain Les Stuart, commander of the Lucky Two a Rim Commonality, a nation of the former-Free Worlds League. Please clarify you’re who?â€
“We represent the Trinity Moons, we’ve been out of contact with the Free Worlds League Government for several years but I’m sure they will have a record of our membership in the Succession State of House Marik.â€
“Captain the Free Worlds League has fallen into its individual realms. The Rim Commonality is one of these states a state of cold war exists between the FWL members with individual states trying to get one better than their neighbours. I suggest your fighters slow down and power down your weapons, we have a lot to talk about, and I will call off my support craft also?â€
“Agreed, we’ll vector away however our sensors will continue to monitor your craft until the Trinity Moons can be contacted.â€
“Of course.†Captain Stuart answered glad he had averted starting a war on his first hour in this strange system. He looked at the ancient Vulcan fighters and ran a passive scan of the system nearby was a small space station from which they had launched from deeper in the system the Lucky Two’s sensors could pick up other stations, fighters and one or two DropShips travelling between three moons of a massive gas giant. Over the next three weeks the Lucky Two and her crew would get to know the system and its inhabitants and convince them to open negotiations with the Rim Commonality for membership in a larger group of worlds. By the end of January 3079 a formal treaty of membership had been signed.
With these links established the Trinity Moons became far busier with Rim Commonality businesses wanting to see what was in the system and what they could sell to this world. As part of the agreement with the Trinity Moons government the system would keep its own rule and would limit visitors to a single JumpShip at a time, all incoming vessels would be escorted by the Trinity Moons Navy Fighters and the system’s exact location would be kept secret by the Rim Commonality leaders. For the Rim Commonality they found a system untouched by the Succession Wars with its own set of rules and technology base where space travel had been based from several space stations built for defence and as monitors, with this potent weapon the system had fought off several raider attacks that had emerged over the years and the Rim Commonality saw an opportunity using modern technology to upgrade the stations the Rim Commonality wanted at least three for all of its systems which brought dozens of jobs to the system and constant trade pleasing the people and the sitting government. The first Commonality-class System Station is constructed in parts within the Trinity Moons system and assembled within the Lesnovo system in mid 3079.
Knights of St Cameron Base
Odessa, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
21st December 3078
From their base world of Odessa in the Lyran Commonwealth the Knights of St Cameron Mercenary Regiment’s commander Colonel Mortimer Dewey sends a message to the Lyran High Command informing them they were enacting a emergency escape clause in their contract and expected no further payment. With this the entire Regiment boarded their DropShips rendezvousing with their JumpShips before exiting the system.
The LIC conduct a thorough investigation of this disappearance however they are unable to track the Knights as they travel through the Lyran Commonwealth and disappear around the Distant Rim area of the Commonwealth. Going over the Knights former base on Odessa they discover Colonel Dewey received six deleted HPG messages over the last week, the LIC are unable to recover any of the messages and the Knights disappearance is considered to be a mystery.
Star League Court of High Justice
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
26th December 3078
In an effort to show the Star League was more than a military entity that controlled worlds and defended Terra the Star League Court of Justice was formed in the rebuilding Unity City. Opened by Governor of Terra Gavin Dow the Court of Justice would sort out legal cases between the Succession States and between the massive Corporations that spanned the Inner Sphere, and even the Clan states, any case of appeal could be taken to the Star League Court of Justice. To further show the Court’s impartiality a Terran born defence lawyer and court Judge Jillian Elton was made the first High Commissioner of the High Court. Because of Terra’s long standing neutrality in Inner Sphere politics it is hoped her position will be respected from natives of all the Inner Sphere’s realms.
And so ends 3078, I hope you enjoyed it.
As always comments and questions are welcome. I'll try to answer any questions quickly
More soon
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3079
Spaceport
New Hedon, Herotitus
Periphery
12th January 3079
In near perfect formation Three Union-class DropShips landed at the Herotitus Spaceport just outside the capital city New Hedon. From the DropShips came several BattleMechs of unknown designs to the locals. At the local Customs Office the person on duty watched as a man in his late 30s wearing a simple tan jumpsuit approached, the officer put down his cocktail drink and raised his clipboard “How can I help you sir, would you like to book into New Hedon control?â€
“Sure, I am Sta… Colonel Trent Higall of the Liger Warriorsâ€
“The Liger Warriors? I’ve not heard of you before, first time to Herotitus?â€
“Aye, we are new†Trent announced “we have been looking to register? Where is the local mercenary office?â€
“There isn’t one, Colonel; Herotitus is unofficially a mercenary world and only recently even that, most see this as a backwater. Mercenary commands that want to register have to travel to Outreach or Galatea, half a sphere away, here you can recruit if there’s anyone worth it but there’s no registered trade. Anything would be off the books, unofficial if you were willing to do it.â€
“Ah, well perhaps I will take my Mech out for a tour see if I can pick up any new recruits - a mercenary unit can never be without warriors.â€
“I’m afraid not commander…â€
“It is Colonel†Trent interrupted.
“Whatever" he said dismissively "Colonel, no military assets are allowed in the city - our roads are nowhere near strong enough to support their weight or size you’ll destroy the city with your Mechs.â€
“How does your defence force get around?â€
“What defence force? Other than the three or four other mercenary units on planet there are no defence forces.â€
“Really? What fantastic news†Trent said smiling raising his communicator to his mouth. “Lost One, to The Fallen, rein fire and hail†he said simply above there were several sonic booms as his fighters dived into the atmosphere, they’d been deployed an hour before landing of his ground troops. “All ground armour and Elementals with me, Mech forces secure the spaceport.†He said as a Svantovit Infantry Carrier came up behind him on a cushion of air Trent glanced at the stunned Custom’s officer. “Don’t worry it will soon be over and a new rule will be in place.†He said smiling again this time a wicked smile as the Svantovit smashed through the exit barrier followed by a second, deeper in the city explosions could be heard as the fighters began bombing runs. From the direction of the explosions the Customs officer could tell it was the government building and the HPG Tower near the centre of the city.
Travelling at the head of an ad-hoc star of armour made up of units from both his second and third stars Trent Higall watched as the local traffic tried in vein to get out of the way of the speeding well armoured Hovercraft leading his forces. In the back were five Elemental in full Battle Armour warriors ready for deployment and combat. Pulling up to the burning government buildings in the centre of the city Trent sent his Elementals into the building on an eradication mission killing anyone who put up any resistance as he and the vehicles secured a perimeter as per orders The Fallen moved on from New Hedon picking targets around the planet the Ligers had identified from orbit as potential problems and destroying them.
Within the hour resistance within the capital and the Spaceport had been quelled with four DropShips all carrying BattleMechs and Armoured vehicles seized without a shot fired. The Liger Warriors had found resistance on most of the DropShips as the crews and passengers tried to defend their possessions. The Ligers had little choice but to eliminate them meaning they had newly captured Mechs and vehicles but no-one to use them.
At a hastily built podium in front of the destroyed Government buildings Star Colonel Trent Higall stepped in front of a nation wide camera broadcast. “People of New Hedon and Herotitus, I am Star Colonel Trent Higall the commander of the Liger Warriors and new ruler of this city and soon to be this world. All military units still active are ordered to stand down immediately; if they do they will not be harmed however any resistance will be dealt with lethal force. We are former Clan warriors; we have no interest in running your world, I will be happy to allow normal operations to continue within New Hedon while under Liger control however any disruptions or trouble caused while we are in charge will not be tolerated. Already Liger forces are en-route to Myrmos, from there our might will extend, this is a planet wide challenge if you want to try and stop us - we are here and we are staying.†He said laying down an ultimatum to everyone on the planet before stepping down. Myrmos a small suburb outside New Hedon frequented by mercenaries put up little resistance and fell to Liger forces within the hour, once the military hardware had been claimed as salvage the Ligers returned to the spaceport keeping to Higall’s promise not to interfere with day to day events. Within the next three days the rest of New Hedon’s small cities fell to Liger forces each time the military technology was removed, government buildings bombed out and the cities left to their normal operations. The local population of Herotitus was inconvenienced for less than a week and barely noticed the leadership change; several embraced it as the previous President Allison Carver was a fundamentalist Catholic intent on changing everything that made Herotitus great. With the Ligers in charge things seemed like they would remain the same.
Royal Mile
Samantha, Taurus
Taurian Concordat
18th January 3079
People ringed the street as the Protector’s Guardians marched down the Royal Mile towards the Calderon Palace in the heart of Samantha. At the head of this was newly promoted Brigadier Erik Martens-Calderon, now a decorated battle hero, who had ordered the unit to return to Taurus.
“End of the Line? Baron†Janice Calderon asked looking at the leader of the Concordat Baron Cham Kithrong.
“Perhaps, I have always said I am but Erik’s regent, it has always been his choice when to take power.â€
“And that’s it; you’ll abandon post and power?†She asked Janice was still weak from her recent recovery from Brisbane Syndrome but Cham could tell she was still looking out for the Protector and for the Concordat.
“I am not Grover Sharplen, if Erik wants the job it is his post and power together. I will offer my presence, and advice, as a Marshal of the Taurian people and as a Baron of the realm but if he does not want me, I will happily return home. Samantha has not the place in my heart as other places.â€
“Cham, you are an honourable man, don’t think your place is over here. Erik is still young he will need a guiding hand. Some would take advantage, and some of his experiences will cloud his judgement.†She said as Erik reached the steps near where Cham and Janice had been talking.
“Maybe†Cham said stepping away from the elder Calderon towards Erik “Welcome back to Taurus Brigadier.â€
“Thank you, sir.†Erik said saluting which Cham instantly returned. Cham could not notice the difference in Erik he was older and more than just years he was stable and world aware. “May I?†He asked indicating to a nearby podium.
“Of course, your position is here it always has been, I am but your Regent.â€
“Baron, you are far more than just a Regent.†Erik said quietly stepping away taking the podium with both hands. “People of Samantha and of the Taurian Concordat, it has been many years since I have had a chance to speak to you directly, though Baron Kithrong has kept me in touch with the events of our nation. I have decided that it is time that I stop indulging myself in being a hero on the battlefield and help mould our nation for the future. We have several threats all around us the Federated Suns remains our biggest however the Fronc Reaches, the Colony Region we helped form, has begun to gain more power and is increasing in its armaments and the Magistracy of Canopus continues to grow stronger with the Capellan Confederation.
“These threats are perhaps nothing compared to that posed by Clan Nova Cat which resides in the former Tortuga Dominions. They have benefactors in the Federated Suns which protects them from the rest of the Inner Sphere and already they have penetrated the Filtvelt Coalition and the Fronc Reaches, they are perhaps the greatest threat our nation has ever faced. As a result today I will be taking our nation in a direction that will bring us protection from all threats. With the leaders of the Concordat behind me and a great future ahead of us all together we cannot fail. Today I want the whole Taurian Concordat to know that there is a Calderon back on Taurus and one who is ready to take charge. I thank you.†He said turning for a few moments there was a stunned silence then someone from the crowd screamed.
“Three cheers for the Protector Hip-Hip! Hoorah!†Throughout the central square of Samantha the cheers rang out lifting everyone’s spirits including Erik’s. It was good to be home.
Closed Briefing
Sandhurst, United Kingdom
Terra, Star League Protectorate
21st January 3079
At the Sandhurst Military Academy in southern England that served as the Star League Defence Forces primary deployment base on Terra Major General Caradoc Trevena held one of the highest level briefings of his life. One that could define his entire position as the Star League’s Head of Staff and the safety of Terra, it was also a decision that he alone had to make with the Commanding-General busy countering the Snow Ravens and as involving the First Lord would be more trouble than it was worth.
Bringing together some of the biggest minds on Terra and in the SLDF he laid out the reason for this meeting. Clan Sea Fox had approached the Star League and requested that their Clan be allowed to take control of the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser Vision of Truth which drifted in a dead area of the Terran system after being badly damaged during the ComStar/Word of Blake conflict. Because the Star League did not require a vessel of such size and capabilities it had been allowed to drift after the remains of the crew had been removed.
The Clan already possessed several Potemkin-class vessels which they were converting to use as massive moving city ships that traveled the Inner Sphere’s space lanes making trade and picking fights. After a heated discussion, which included opposition against all contact with the Clans, it was agreed that giving the Sea Foxes possession of a derelict vessel for generous trade and good relations in return was a good deal and benefited both sides. Although strong security measures would taken and restrictions be put on the Sea Fox Clan’s movements within the Sol System they would be given possession of the vessel.
Primary Space Port
Hope, Nova Cat’s Den
26th January 3079
Though the nights sky a single Mule-class merchant DropShip dropped towards the planetary spaceport that served the capital of Hope. The DropShip was returning from a mission to the Filtvelt Coalition and promised to bring plenty of materials and goods into the markets of Hope keeping the Colony in touch with the rest of the Nova Cat’s Den and the periphery. Under Nova Cat rule the world had moved forward well from the world the Brotherhood of Randis had defended and was now a bustling metropolis all alone in the darkness of space. From her window on the DropShip Amy Frews looked out at the city and quietly wondered to herself if the nation could survive again on its own after what the Nova Cats had done to the world, at the same time however she knew what her grandfather would have wanted her to do, even if she had never known him well.
As the DropShip came to a landing Amy brought herself up to a stand and moved into the main cargo bay, she’d been able to convince the DropShip’s commander she was a good dock worker from Filtvelt who wanted a better life. He’d agreed as long as she pulled her weight which she planned to do immediately for one of the DropShip’s four Powerman LoaderMechs, though nothing like as powerful as a BattleMech these powerful machines were easily strong enough to aid in her escape from the spaceport and into the city, the Nova Cats could recover it themselves.
Powering up the Mech she saw the Master Loader open the main cargo hold moving her Powerman she picked up a pair of large crates the Mech’s lift hoists automatically locking onto them allowing her Mech’s Arms to move freely. Stepping out onto the planet’s surface Amy paused briefly, it was her first time on the planet her grandfather called home, Randis was far different from the stories she’d heard. She smiled thinking of her grandfather then moved over the ground dropping the crates near a group of others. A quick look at the customs gate showed only minimal forces there.
Taking a chance she accelerated the Powerman towards the gates the five troopers there raised their gauss sub-machine guns and other hand weapons and began firing at her Mech but although their small arms fire could do damage to the commercial armour that protected her Mech they were never going to stop the thirty-five ton Mech charging the gates and running down the streets. She smiled more broadly when the ground stood up to her Mech’s thirty-five kilometre per hour charge down the street, whoever had laid the roads had done a good job protecting the underlying infrastructure under heavy ferro-crete tarmac.
Amy could not become complacent however, by now the word would be out to the Nova Cats that her Mech was to be considered hostile and she had nothing to defend herself in a fire fight, she dreaded to think what a BattleMech class weapon would do to the Powerman. Turning down another street she could see a Nova Cat Mech ahead looking in a different direction, turning again the immediately turning down a third street always changing direction she slammed the Powerman through a commercial warehouse smashing her Mech’s windscreen as it toppled over the broken wall and onto the warehouses contents. Luckily for her there was nothing explosive inside but she didn’t wait to see if she’d been noticed climbing out of the Mech she headed back onto the street and headed for the biggest group of people she could see.
As she reached some traffic lights she stopped breathing a sight of relief as a Nova Cat military vehicle moved past at high speed ignoring the red light and ignoring Amy. “Welcome to Randis†came an instantly recognizable voice behind her, turning she saw Grand Knight Lucas Beckett the man who had replaced her grandfather as leader of the Brotherhood, now dressed in the full regalia of a Nova Cat Star Colonel and carrying what appeared to be a Gauss Sub-Machine Gun. Her game was up.
“I’m sorry, do we know each other? Star Colonel I am a simple merchant.â€
“Of course you are Sister Frews; ensure that it remains that way. I will overlook your little LoaderMech incident, as a desperate attempt to ensure you made it to the home of the Brotherhood. But if you cause trouble I will find and destroy you. Randis had prospered under the Nova Cat’s rule, we would do well to keep in their good graces.â€
“What if the people want better than they have?â€
“Then it is there choice, not yours, just remember everything is peaceful, everyone is alive, there is no oppression and that is before you arrived.†He said without another word he walked away leaving Amy slightly stunned she’d expected him to be her biggest rival on this planet yet he was ready to allow her free rein as long as she behaved - if only he knew her better.
-
Clan Shipyards
Lum, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
2nd February 3079
With assistance from Clan Snow Raven engineers from Clan Coyote launch two newly built York-class Carrier WarShips into their fleet from the Lum Fleet Shipyards in the Kerensky Cluster. These ships named the Temple Hill and David’s Point, which had been under construction for the better part of two years, do little to make up for the recent loss of the Great Coyote Spirit but they do bolster the Coyote’s Naval strength and provide much needed fighter transport.
Nadir point
New Earth, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
4th February 3079
After being dropped off by an unmarked Invader-class JumpShip two Union-class DropShips and a single Leopard-class vessel reached orbit over the planet of New Earth. As none were squawking with identification records a fighter patrol from the Twenty-second Isle of Skye Guards challenged them three vessels.
As these fighters approached they were met by the Leopard which identified itself as hostile by engaging them with an arrangement of LRMs and heavy Particle Projection Cannons destroying all six fighters in this surprise attack. The three DropShips then launched a total of six aerospace fighters between them providing their own air patrol. The two Unions then orientated themselves towards the planet and without further warning began firing capital missile fire down onto the planet concentrating on the Isle of Skye Guards main base and the New Earth Trading Company.
From the other side of the planet a reinforced wing of aerospace fighters and three DropShips launched and intercepted the three DropShips - one Union was destroyed nearly immediately however the second was able to fire a single Killer Whale Capital Missile at the Mopelia Island which supported nearly forty thousand people. The missile, an air burst weapon exploded over the island showering it with a Chemical Agent which had a large percentage of the population sick or dying within six hours. The remaining two DropShips and fighters were finally overcome by the Isle of Skye Guard fighters however at heavy cost effectively destroying air wing while the regiment had been decimated on the ground. None of the attacking DropShips or fighters were identified by the defenders - the planetary government on New Earth sent a distress call to anyone nearby capable of helping the massive amount of casualties on New Earth.
Landfall
Mopelia Island New Earth
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
18th February 3079
Answering New Earth’s call for help DropShips bearing markings of the Star League’s 79th Special Operations Battalion, also known as the Devil’s Advocates, entered the atmosphere deploying Aerospace Fighters as they descended towards the planet’s surface. Not knowing the scale of the damage on the ground Major Charlene Cypher ordered her company of BattleMechs to disembark first, with a lance of the Jump Capable Mechs making a Hot Drop onto the spaceport while the DropShips were still landing.
On the ground this lance of Mechs immediately picked up what Charlene Cypher had worried about, the spaceport was in compete chaos. Vehicles and Mechs belonging to the Isle of Skye Guards laid burning within and around the spaceport as did dozens of civilians. It was clear that the city’s population was in panic and they were lashing out at the local military forces. In case of airborne cotangents Cypher ordered her troops to keep buttoned up in their Mechs and Vehicles and for all medics to wear full environmental suits when outside as the remains of the Battalion began to land and disembark.
Moving from their DropShips The Devil’s Advocates secured a perimeter around the Spaceport while Major Cypher led an advanced group to the cities HPG and government buildings. The government buildings were ablaze riot police and civilian bodies littered the ground as it became obvious of the panic that had spread through the city in the last fourteen days. Knowing her battalion alone, reinforced as it was would never be able to keep the Island quarantined and the rest of the planet stable Cypher sent a message to Terra requested that the whole First Special Operations Group and Naval assets be deployed to New Earth. Then she pulled her forces back to the spaceport and ordered the Devil’s Advocates to lock down the spaceport while the rest of the Battalion using their many Expandable Service Vehicles and Oppie Hazmat Vehicles to set up a medical area at the spaceport allowing the process of helping the planet’s victims to begin.
A few days later the other Battalions of the First Special Operations Group and the SLS Helm, the SLDF’s Venturer-class Light Cruiser, arrived in the system. The other battalions would assist the Devil’s Advocates while the Venturer acted as a ‘High Ground’ for the ground troops and stopped any further forces entering the Island’s airspace without SLDF approval.
Thorin General Hospital
Ecol City, Thorin
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
20th February 3079
“Push now, I can see the head!†from outside the medical ward Commanding-General Archer Christifori could hear what was going on but could not see, Katya had told him she didn’t want him interfering as she gave birth to their first child. “Come on one last pushâ€
“I’ll give you one last push doctor straight trough that damned wall!†Katya screamed but moments later Archer could hear a small cry then the large howl of a child in the room a new baby being born. “Archer, get in here!†Katya screamed the Star League’s Commanding General did not need to be told twice darting into the room.
Laying on the bed Katya was cradling their newly born baby in her arms Archer paused for a moment to take in the sight. “I’d like you to meet your father†Katya was whispering softly. Archer crossed the gap between them and could see the face of his child “Archer, I’d like you to meet Morgan Victor Christifori, your son†she said looking at him, they’d chosen the name weeks before when the first tests had shown it was a boy naming him for the former leader of the Star League Defence Force Morgan Hasek-Davion a fitting tribute to the first leader of the reborn League. Archer kissed her forehead looking at the child smiling lost for words.
Burn in System, SLS Helm (Venturer-class Light Cruiser)
New Earth, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
25th February 3079
“Captain, we have jump signatures at the Nadir Point, several ships just jumped in system.â€
“Are they flying IFF signals?â€
“Aye, sir I ready two Lyran Commonwealth Fox-class Corvettes, the LCS Katrina Steiner and the LCS Ian McQuiston. They are escorting three Invaders which are launching DropShips.â€
“Send them a standard welcome see what we get in return.†the ship’s commander said the communications officer nodded. A few minutes passed and the communications officer reported in.
“Sir, they have received our communiqué and replied. Sir I quote, ‘New Earth is under our protection, we will be taking over all operations on planet.’ the two Corvettes and DropShips are increasing speed, still two days out.â€
“Understood, send them a follow up message ‘SLDF aid workers and security troops are on Mopelia Island. We are willing and most grateful for Lyran Commonwealth support in aid operations however replacing SLDF servicemen with Lyrans would do more damage than good. We suggest you land at the capital and assist the remains of the local government in controlling the rest of the population.†The communications officer sent the message and they waited a few moments for a reply “Tactical, I want full scans of the incoming forces and any defensive measures we need to take. Have all our actions copied to the ground troops.â€
“Sir, return communication from the LCS Katrina Steiner Rear Admiral Alex Horner in command. ‘SLDF vessel Helm, the is a Lyran world we will go where we are needed and where we want. Any actions against our forces will be considered an aggressive act against the Lyran Commonwealth by an occupying SLDF force.’ End communication sir.â€
“Copy to the ground to be sent back to Terra and to Thorin for the Commanding-General’s attention. ‘LCS Katrina Steiner, we are here to safeguard as many lives on Mopelia Island as possible. This is a humanitarian mission however the SLS Helm is fully combat capable. Your forces will not be cleared for landings on New Earth’s Mopelia Island, an alternate landing near the capital has been designated. If you attempt to land on Mopelia Island I am authorising the use of the SLS Helm’s weapons to stop your landings. Signed Captain Luther Still. Send that to the Social Admiral. Tactical analysis of their ships and support craft, find me ways to engage them if we need to.â€
Several hours passed before the Lyrans replied to the Helm’s ultimatum replying that they would land near the capital and help bring order and set up secondary hospitals with the two WarShips brining medical supplies not weapons of War. The SLS Helm settled into an orbit around Mopelia Island monitoring the Lyran’s incoming forces.
-
Lyrans can be trusted only so far. Always keep a gauss rifle ready
-
Lyrans can be trusted only so far. Always keep a gauss rifle ready
In the Helm's case that will be a Naval Gauss Rifle. Although I don't think the Lyran's are the real trouble
Privy Council Chambers
Samantha, Taurus
Taurian Protectorate
8th March 3079
At a session of the Privy Council Protector Erik Martens-Calderon was making a strong case for the Taurian military to make a strike against Clan Nova Cat trade posts on both Detroit and Filtvelt then to strike Randis and the main Nova Cat’s Den. Even if it meant taking every Taurian off the Federated Suns border the passionate speech was beginning to sway many of the Privy Council when an aide entered and approached a member of the Council, who looked shocked for a moment before rising from his chair.
“Protector Calderon, we have received a message through the Hyper Pulse Generator for the view of this council.â€
“Who from? We are in the middle of something†he asked impatiently Cham Kithrong had said to him to hold his tongue when things were against him but here today he was winning over the Privy Council.
“Khan Canin Rosse, leader of Clan Nova Catâ€
“What does this Clanner want?†Erik asked out aloud to no-one in particular.
“Perhaps we should see…†Governor Callina Malvena of New Vandenberg, a major military weapons producer, Erik knew if he got the wrong side of her then she’d cause trouble for his rule. He also knew that seeing every side of a fight could not hurt.
“Put it on the main screens.†Erik said moments later the screen was filled by a man in his early forties dressed in a all black with a styled Nova Cat headpiece.
“People of Taurus, I am Khan Canin Rosse leader of Clan Nova Cat, we drove the pirates of Tortuga to their death many years ago and have lived in peace with the Periphery since actively trading with you and many of your neighbours. However, a troubling message has crossed by my eyes; the Taurian Concordat has plans against my Clan.†he paused standing up “though I would not wish to tell you or your honourable Protector how to rule his realm or how to fight his battles, I would warn you that any act of aggression against Clan Nova Cat. Any act will be met with like force and if your nation chose to use its ultimate weapon on our people, as you did against the Star League Defence Force, your nation will simply cease to exist we will give no quarter.†Canin said stepping back slightly “I hope we can continue to live in peace, Seyla†he said before being replaced by the Clan Nova Cat insignia.
“What the hell does ‘Seyla’ mean?â€
“How dare he threaten us!â€
“Protector, we must act against this Clan menaceâ€
“How dare he compare his people to the Star League Defence Force!â€
“They are descendant of the SLDF of old…â€
“They are clanners; we should deal with them with Nuclear fire!â€
All around the Protector voices were being raised in the Privy Council, the Nova Cat Khan had certainly stirred them, to Erik’s side was Cham Kithrong who remained silent. “Honourable Lords, if I can have a couple of words!†Erik said standing up raising his voice as well as his stature, he’d always been tall one reason his teenage years had turned him from BattleMech love of his youth to Battle Armour. All around him the Privy Council became quieter “my own Protector’s Guardians fought the Nova Cats in the Fronc Reaches. Their forces though small in number cut into our Taurian ranks and retreated with little loss but cost us heavy. Though I know that the Taurian people would happily pay their lives in an enemy that was a threat to us I wonder if we should be so ready to throw them away. We must continue to prepare our forces rebuild our battered ranks and improve relations with our neighbours and approach the Star League for support.â€
“Protector minutes ago you were advocating a direct assault against the Nova Cats now you warn us with caution. How can we believe in you if your mind is not made?â€
“My mind is made Councillor, Clan Nova Cat are a threat against us and possibly always will be. However, the Nova Cat leader has told me more. We should mind our step around them. Only individuals in this room knew of our talks to strike at them, yet they communicate on a day we meet to discuss the very subject. Councillor’s I believe that Clan Nova Cat’s Intelligence has infiltrated even this star cluster and they do not care that we know this fact.†He continued sitting back down “I also believe that if we faced them we’d face one hundred Santiago Massacres and an occupation force far less benevolent than the Star League ever was.†Looking at the members of the Council “unlike your previous Protector I can walk away from a fight that I cannot win, but I do not let it lay we will approach it from another angle and we won’t be beaten back.â€
If anything it was Erik’s last words that had won them over, Grover Sharplen had been known to fixate on a target and try to battle through his mistakes despite the mistakes. Today Erik had shown them that even his ambition was tampered by the needs of the Concordat, something Erik had to thank Khan Canin Rosse, for saving his leadership while in its infancy and for saving many Taurian lives. In all the proceedings Cham Kithrong had remained silent almost uninterested in the Protector’s words with a small smile on his face as he watched the Councillors realize they had a true leader on their hands. The past of Calderon’s being blinded by their own ambition and paranoia was over.
Steel Viper Launch
Lum Shipyards, Lum
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
14th March 3079
At the Lum Shipyards Clan Steel Viper brings a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser online repairing several damaged weapons and making the hull airtight. This vessel which the Steel Viper Khans name King Viper is intended to help bolster WarShip numbers after years of combat and show that the Steel Vipers were still a power to be wary of. This move was mirrored by the raising of three brand-new Clusters in Steel Viper territories however unlike the ground forces the launch of the King Viper did not go quietly or so joyously.
During the launch ceremony a star of Stone Rhino aerospace fighters supported by a Carrier-class DropShip approach the Steel Vipers. In a standard Trial of Possession the Stone Rhinos attempt to replicate their success of the year previously when they captured another Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser from the Steel Vipers. This time however the Stone Rhino pilots were far outclassed by the Steel Viper pilots unable to save themselves let alone capture a WarShip, when it looked like the whole star would be lost the Carrier’s crew attempted to intervene violating the Trial. With restrictions lifted Naval Autocannons on the King Viper opened fire on the Carrier breaking its back with three successive hits.
Open Ground
Brasha, Outworlds Alliance
Periphery
19th March 3079
Around six kilometres from a Snow Raven supply base on Brasha the Opacus Venatori waited for the right signal. For three hours they had closed on the base watching as the five BattleMechs and some conventional infantry defended the base moved in the baking heat without worry. Occasional militia Qum’ram Guard troops moved through the area on patrol, the infantry troops riding their lizard mounts as quickly as many BattleMechs moved.
“Opacus and Venatori, together attack†Spector Precentor Berith ordered firing a range shot with his Archangel’s Heavy PPCs scoring a damaging hit on a Snow Raven light Mech. “Kill them all†he ordered the twelve BattleMechs moved forward firing as they moved, even the advanced Clan and Star League weapons mounted on the Snow Raven defenders stood little chance against the Opacus Venatori’s Celestials.
“Berith! Pick on someone your own size†another voice said over the communication channel as the third Snow Raven Mech fell. Over the sand dunes came wave after wave of Qum’ram Guard troops charging forward firing their hand weapons at his Mechs.
“Hahahaha!†Berith laughed “you think animals will save these pathetic Clansmen.â€
“No, but we will†a third voice answered as a gauss rifle slug followed by several Particle Cannons slammed into several of the Venatori Mechs. Turning Berith could see nearly two companies of BattleMechs all wearing the insignia of the Wolf’s Dragoons Mercenary Brigade.
“No! Opacus, turn on them! Venatori finish the Snow Ravens†Berith ordered almost immediately knowing he was sending the Venatori to their deaths the Dragoons outnumbered his force two to one, four to one if only the Opacus engaged them. And that didn’t even include the remaining Snow Ravens and Qum’ram Guards. Almost as soon as he had given the orders Berith realized his mistake “Opacus Venatori, converge on me, charge and break through the Dragoons!†He said throttling his Archangel forward into the Dragoons fire its compact Engine and Gyro allowing the one hundred ton Mech to take hit after hit without critical damage. Closing in range Berith using his secondary processor implant to pick through the Dragoons encryption he tracked down Major John Cavell’s Hellbringer OmniMech, take off the head and the body dies he thought. The clan heavy Mech was at the centre of the formation firing its PPCs and short range missile splitting targets constantly damaging all the Word of Blake Mechs. Berith’s own Guardian shook as the Archangel was shaken by a particle projection cannon hit, running forward at nearly fifty kilometres an hour the Archangel charged into the Hellbringer forcing it to the ground around the Mech as the fighting continued Berith ignored them activating his communications system. “Major Cavell, so nice of you to die, here on this little planet†He said slamming Guardian’s foot down on the downed Dragoon Mech, the sixty-five ton Mech convulsed almost in a human manner shaking as the Archangel’s foot crushed its chest into the ground. Other Dragoons turned to fire on Berith supporting their downed commander but it was too late raising his Mech’s right arm he fired his capacitor enhanced heavy particle cannon into the Hellbringer’s cockpit killing John Cavell the Hellbringer went limp under the Archangel’s mass.
The loss of their commander seemed to have an effect on the mercenaries all around the Dragoons fighting strength whined slightly allowing the Opacus Venatori to charge through the formation, three Venatori Mechs fell in the retreat their warriors overloading their Mech’s fusion reactors in self sacrifice to cover the rest of the unit taking several of the Dragoons with them. Three hours later the remaining Dragoons gave up the chase, the Opacus Venatori were able to escape off planet working together to escape.
The remaining Dragoons numbered a little over a Trinary Captain Stacy Church was the most senior officer remaining. Due to their assistance the local Snow Raven defenders, merchants and the militia including the Qum’ram Guards allowed the Dragoons to remain on the planet unmolested until they were ready to resume the search. Captain Church took command of the hunt sending the remains of Spider home keeping her Black Widows with her. Communicating to the Widow’s Lair she and the Black Widow Company reborn continued the search for the remaining Opacus Venatori.
Gray Death Legion Hospital Complex
Gray Death Landhold, Glengarry
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
24th March 3079
On Glengarry in the heart of the Lyran Commonwealth’s Isle of Skye the famous, or infamous, Gray Death Legion Mercenary Command celebrated the birth of their newest member. Executive officer Samantha Logan-Carlyle gave birth to a very health daughter Dana Lori Carlyle, her first child by Commander Alexander Carlyle the Baron von Glengarry.
The Gray Death Legion itself also agrees to a contract with the Star League Protectorate, a one year training and anti-terrorism duty within the Star League Protectorate worlds. Half the unit, around 3 combined-arms Battalions, would leave Glengarry under Alexander Carlyle’s command while the rest remained on Glengarry with Samantha and the baby. This contract marked a special moment in Legion history as it was the first for the Gray Death Legion outside the Lyran realm since before the Fourth Succession War.
High Orbit Drop
Herotitus, Periphery
27th March 3079
After hearing of the troubles on Herotitus the Fronc Reaches chose to become involved in an attempt to drive the pirates from the world they deployed the First Colonial Marshals supported by the mercenary command Gabhardt’s Carabineers.
In orbit over the world they immediately come under attack from a Carrier-class DropShip along with nearly twenty fighters including several front-line Davion-built Dagger OmniFighters. Pushing through this screen they begin making hot-drops onto the world only to find three primarily Clan-tech based Trinaries of troops each supported by a battalion of combined-arms troops hailing mainly from mercenary commands formerly on the world.
Already under strength from the fighting in orbit and further hampered by the complete air superiority of the Liger Warriors and their attending commands the Fronc troops were on the back foot from landfall and both the First Colonial Marshals and the Gabhardt’s Carabineers capitulated within three hours of landfall.
Hope you enjoy
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Star League Training Grounds
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
12th April 3079
The Clan Nova Cat Liaison force and the First Defiance Training Battalion engage in a mock battle on Defiance at the Star League Training Grounds, adjoined to the Star League Martial Olympiad Grounds. Shocking the Nova Cat forces the Training Battalion win the battle and four Standard Clan Battle Armour suits.
Following the successful resumption of the Nova Cat/Federated Suns exercise the Federated Suns contact Nova Cat scientists asking for assistance in the development of a new OmniMech design based on a quad chassis in the Federated Suns.
Third Diet
Versailles, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Clan Homeworlds
20th April 3079
After a twelve year gap since the last Diet Clan Cloud Cobra hosts a Third event at the city of Versailles on Babylon brining in religious leaders from across the Human Sphere. Unlike previous events this Diet passes without trouble - however this is possibly due to the four Clan Cloud Cobra WarShips in orbit and the two galaxies of ground troops garrisoning Versailles and the area around the city.
Planetary Scrubber, Devil’s Backbone Mountains
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
6th May 3079
Years of work between the University of Thorin and the New Avalon Institute of Science began to pay off as the first Planetary Scrubber was activated on Defiance in the Federated Suns Crucis March. Nearly as tall as three BattleMechs standing on top of each other the Scrubber was hidden deep within the Devil’s Backbone Mountains far from and wary eyes, operating twenty-four hours a day the scrubber drew in Defiance’s tainted atmosphere and produced clean oxygen-nitrogen in its place. Though the people of the world would still need to wear breathing masks when outside the Planetary Scrubber was a proof of concept design and plans began to move even faster to produce and activate more. Across the Federated Suns betting agencies picking up on this mammoth task began to take bets on when/and if the world would ever have a clean atmosphere.
Clan Stone Rhino Territory
Dagda, Huntress
Clan Homeworlds
15th May 3079
In a series of Trials of Possession first on Dagda in the Pentagon Worlds then on Huntress Clan Steel Viper forces Clan Stone Rhino from their enclaves seizing their territory. They refuse to bid down from their initial bids, refuse to give the Stone Rhino warriors safcon from the system and refuse to take prisoners. In the fighting three Steel Viper Clusters of Alpha and Beta Galaxies were lost however nearly two Galaxies of Stone Rhinos were lost, additionally in orbit around Dagda the Stone Rhino Stooping Kite exploded under weapons fire from Steel Viper fighters, the York-class Carrier could be seen burning through the atmosphere further demoralizing ground troops.
Steel Viper Holdings
Dagda, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds
22nd May 3079
In an attempt to save Clan Stone Rhino from the Steel Vipers who seemed out of control and wanting blood Clan Star Adder attempts to bail out their allies by attacking the newly captured Dagda holdings. With the entire Tau Provisional Galaxy committed to the attacks however they are caught unaware as Clan Coyote, also on Dagda, stuck at the Star Adders flanks turning the battle into a free-for-all.
Although none of the three Clans involved are badly damaged this does derail any attempts by Star Adder forces on Dagda to distract the Steel Vipers. Elsewhere in the Homeworlds other Clans cause similar incidents which disrupt other Star Adder attempts at assistance - the Stone Rhinos are left to fend for themselves.
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Clan Stone Rhino Stronghold
York, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
1st June 3079
In a series of assaults between the First and Fifth of June nearly a full galaxy of Steel Viper warriors land on York and begin to make head way against the defending Stone Rhinos. In orbit the WarShips General Stuart, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, Unleashed, a Samarkand Block II-class Carrier, and the Crazy Rhino, an early model Essex-class Destroyer attempt to block the Steel Vipers route however the WarShips the Snake in the Grass, a Whirlwind-class Destroyer, and the King Viper, one of the newly activated Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruisers push through.
The combined firepower of these two WarShips is concentrated on the Crazy Rhino holing the hull in several places forcing the Stone Rhinos to evacuate the vessel. This also forces the General Stuart and Unleashed to fall back allowing more Vipers to land and the world.
Operations Room, Fox’s Den
Avalon Mountains, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
7th June 3079
When someone entered the Fox’s Den under the Avalon Mountains on the capital world of the Federated Suns, New Avalon, many people remembered its advanced computers, high walls and the bustling movement of the staff never stopping always busy. For Tina Howard things were slightly different, she was a Leftenant part of the Rabid Fox Team Eight recently returned from the Draconis Combine, and she’d remember today as the day she met Victor Steiner-Davion, First Prince of the Federated Suns, her nation’s leader.
Entering the small briefing room behind her direct commander Field Marshal Carver Felsner, the Director of the Department of Military Intelligence (DMI), she saw Victor Steiner-Davion standing beside a table in the centre of the room dressed in a Field Marshal’s uniform with many campaign ribbons on his left breast. Stealing a glance Tina could see two unique medals both from Star League service Operation Bulldog and Operation Serpent, although the First Prince had many more impressive medals these were special especially so for Tina her father had served in the First Kathil Uhlans during Operation Serpent then on Strana Mechty ending the Clan War.
“Leftenant?†Carver said questioning her Tina blinked she’d missed his introductions.
“Sir†she said crisply looking at the Field Marshal embarrassed by her mistake in front of her commander and her realm’s leader.
“Your findings?â€
“Of course†she said opening a small folder placing its contents on the table it was a series of photos taken in space of two large vessels surrounded by what appeared to be a structure made from building scaffolding. “Sire, these are long range pictures taken from one of our Skyward satellites just over the Draconis Combine border in an unnamed or inhabited system.†She said “as you can see there are two large vessels in the system under repair or construction.â€
“WarShips?†Victor asked looking at each picture in turn. “A construction yard so close to the border? Surely not.â€
“When we collected the data we were not sure, however consulting records at NAIS and using some contacts we have within the Star League we have been able to find the closest matching profile.†She said pacing a new picture on the table.
“I’m sorry Leftenant, I’m not completely familiar with Draconis Combine or Star League WarShips, I’ve spent most of my career on the ground.†Victor said glancing over the design it looked robust with three weapons ports forward as well as a double launch bay system possibly a carrier or a troopship he wasn’t sure.
“Of course sire, my apologies†she said “this vessel is a Robinson-class Transport, from our best guess the two vessels are of Block I creation.â€
“The Robinson?†Victor asked he was embarrassed he’d never heard of a WarShip named after the capital of the Draconis March.
“Sire, it was a troop transport during the Star League period well armoured and armed the Robinson carried an integral Battalion of BattleMechs and an aerospace fighter wing. Impressive craft†Galen Cox, Field Marshal of the Crucis March said stepping forward Tina hadn’t even seen him enter behind her although she was surprised a Lyran national knew more about Federated Suns designs than her First Prince.
“I’m impressed you know that Marshal.†Victor said with a small smirk “So how do the Combine have two of our transports, ancient as they are, and why are they restoring them now?†Victor asked.
“Sir, we looked at our own records and those of the Star League’s and we think we have something.†Carver Felsner said “during the First Succession War at least three Robinson-class Transports were captured by the Draconis Combine, the original Block I had weak anti-fighter protection and limited internal defences.†He said pausing “we believe they used the Robinson’s BattleMech dropping capacity and copied it for their Kyushu-class Frigates, the Robinson’s capability of dropping in a Battalion of Reinforcements is well documented in the Ceti Hussars records.â€
“So now they want to use two of our WarShips in their navy against us?â€
“Would make sense, losses against the Ravens and Bears have taken their toll on the combine’s naval fleet.†Galen Cox said quietly.
“Sire, we have a plan†Tina said quietly looking at Victor, the First Prince took note of her she was a young officer with very non-descript features you’d never pick her out or say she was stunning but in her eyes he saw determination.
“A plan?†Victor asked cautiously “Leftenant you are aware that we are at peace with the Draconis Combine and that any action against them could be seen as an act of war.â€
“Yes, Sir†she answered “however, they are our ships. Sir†she added quietly.
“Okay Leftenant let’s hear it, I can’t say we’ll use your idea but you never know.â€
“Yes, Sire.†She said taking out a final picture “as you can see this system is a three Jumps into the Combine in the Irurzun Prefecture at least two jump from any other inhabited planet, traders don’t go near the area because they are so far away from inhabited planets. Our idea is for a Monolith-class DropShip carrying seven Vampire-class SpecOps DropShips enter the system, we make a run at both Robinsons capture them and work out which is best for salvaging. We then take it all the way back to either Galax or Camelot Command.â€
“Camelot would be better†Galen said quietly
“Sir these ships served House Davion and were lost because the Star League fell, we just don’t want to see them used against our troops in the future.†Tina said impassioned by anger at the idea of Davion ships being used against the Federated Suns.
“We’ll see what happens, Thank You Leftenant, you’re dismissed.†Victor said she nodded saluted her three superiors and stepped out of the room. For the next three hours Victor, Galen and Carver continued their discussions about the Combine, the basic plan she‘d outlined and the Robinson-class Transports.
Stone Rhino Lines
York, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
8th June 3079
Battles raged across the former Clan Blood Spirit Capital world with Clan Steel Viper forces pushing constantly against the Stone Rhino defenders. From across the Stone Rhino lines however Mechs, armour and Battle Armour were disappearing, in the skies above the WarShips General Stuart and Unleashed had both closed on the planet again and were engaging Steel Viper vessels inside the gravity well of the planet.
At almost precisely 12 noon six DropShips raised from the New Tara Spaceport all bearing the Omega Galaxy crest, of all the Stone Rhino forces this unit alone had the most Blood Spirit warriors amongst its numbers. Almost thirty minutes later one final Outpost-class DropShip launched from the Strathclyde mountains leaving behind several large detonations, as the DropShip joined the others in orbit massive volcanic eruptions could be seen consuming the mountain face. The two Stone Rhino WarShips escorted the DropShips to waiting JumpShips even under heavy Steel Viper pursuit fire.
Stone Rhino Territory
Hector, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
12th June 3079
Following the Scorched Earth tactics employed by the Stone Rhino Omega Galaxy during their retreat on York and the Stone Rhino Khan’s refusal to speak out about the Galaxies actions the Fire Mandrill Khan Garret Sainze declares the Stone Rhino Dezgra in his Clan’s eyes and in an almost unheard of show of cooperation leads a multi-Kindraa Galaxy strong force against the Stone Rhino forces on Hector. Supported by two Fire Mandrill WarShips other Clans were more surprised to see the Temple Hill and David’s Point both supporting the assault. These two York-class Carriers were both new additions to the Clan Coyote Touman, no Coyote ground forces were seen on the planet and the Coyote Khan Salas Kufahl refused to comment on Clan Coyote movements.
Star League Naval Command Headquarters
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
14th June 3079
The newly built Star League Naval Command Headquarters on the outskirts of the rebuilding Unity City had only been open a single month but Fleet Admiral David Natale was already looking at a diplomatic crisis, on his own front door. Doctor David Lear son of the famed Kai Allard-Liao was petitioning for an expedition to be sent to the outskirts of the Terra system. The generally unexplored region known as the Kuiper Belt was home to the Terra system’s most distant bodies, moons, asteroids, comets and even frozen planets who’s orbits were so distant they couldn’t be considered to be part of the solar system.
Dr Lear, a lecturer at Chicago University believed that there was an abandoned Star League Defence Force research base inside the Kuiper Belt abandoned for centuries. Admiral Natale had looked over the data three times and although he agreed there were anomalies readings coming from the belt he did not agree that they indicated a base, SLDF records recovered from Unity City, ComStar and Word of Blake records did not indicate there was anything there either. Although he did not want to insult the Doctor the Admiral refused to waste resources on a jaunt into the back end of the Solar system without concrete information.
Entry Points
Hector System, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
16th June 3079
At almost the same time forces belonging to both Clan Goliath Scorpion and Cloud Cobra arrive in Hector system. On entry into the system they join Clan Fire Mandrill’s declaration that Clan Stone Rhino as a whole was Dezgra. Fortunately for the Stone Rhino ground forces both Clan Goliath Scorpion and Cloud Cobra immediately turn on each other’s invasion force causing heavy damage to each other including the destruction of two WarShips, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser the Incense on the Cloud Cobra side and the Serket a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy cruiser on the Goliath Scorpion side.
On the frozen ground of Hector the Stone Rhino ground forces led by their saKhan continue to resist the Fire Mandrill Clan’s forces while units bearing Clan Coyote insignia are also spotted engaging Stone Rhino forces.
Clan Stone Rhino Territory
York, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
21st June 3079
In an act of pure desperation and defiance against conventional Clan thinking the Stone Rhino WarShip Exeter, a Quixote-class Missile Frigate, bombards Clan Steel Viper ground positions on York with capital missiles and autocannon fire in a clear breach of engagement rules annihilating two cluster of ground forces including the 401st Assault Cluster of Gamma Galaxy and the Seventeenth Viper Regulars Cluster of Nu Galaxy.
As volcanic eruptions on York cause heavy damage to the capital city New Tara and cause hundreds of deaths Khan Brett Andrews of Clan Steel Viper leads Chi Galaxy to the planet to reinforce his Clan’s forces and supervise the destruction of the Stone Rhinos.
Liger Warriors Command Complex
New Hedon, Herotitus
Periphery
22nd June 3079
Standing in around a small table Colonel Trent Higall stood with his three Trinary Commanders and the three leaders of the conventional regiments that had joined the Liger Warriors since their conquest of the world of Herotitus. “The Star Fairer detected seven DropShips entering the system bearing the insignia of the Regulators Mercenary Regiment and that of the Second Canopian Fusiliers. It appears we’ve incurred the wrath of the Confederation.â€
“We can hold ‘em†one of his former mercenary warriors said smiling “if you release the first and second regiments to my command I can take them directly against their landing sites it’s the last thing they will be expecting and my units can show our use.†He said glancing at the other regimental command with a small smirk, Trent Higall suppressed a smile he hoped to use these conscripted troops as cannon fodder and here they were volunteering themselves for just that type of duty.
“I’m sure you are more than capable of such a duty.†Higall said quietly a plan coming to mind. “First through Third Regiments will prove their metal in engaging the Regulators DropShips as they land assuming they do not head straight for the Capital. The Ligers will hold command base while aerospace forces flight combat air patrol.†Higall turned to his conscripted officers “my Ligers have proven themselves it is not time for the Lions, Leopards and Tigers to show their worth.†He said naming all three units by their unofficial nickname.†The three officers nodded and walked out leaving Trent Higall and his own people in the command tent.
“We will allow them to soak up the Capellan resolve while we make good our escape, load as much of the supplies onto our DropShips and ensure the JumpShip is ready to collect us. I want to ensure that as much of our forces get off planet as possible.†The others nodded, six hours later it played out just like that the First and Second Regiments died destroying the Regulators at their landing zones while the Third Regiment died fighting the Canopian Fusiliers as they charged towards the city. The Liger Warriors reinforced by several companies of Arbiter Combat Industrial Mechs escaped the planet, the Arbiters tied down as cargo for the trip.
Grand Hall of the Khans
Katyusha City, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
24th June 3079
"This session calls into question the honour of Clan Stone Rhino. Khan Elizabeth Radick you have been called to defend the actions of Clan Stone Rhino and answer these challenges."
"Loremaster, Clan Stone Rhino has only defended itself during these last months and I would face all the Khans of the Clans not these few who are present. You say that Clan Stone Rhino's honour has been breached I ask where are the Khans of the Honourable Clan Wolf, Jade Falcon or Sea Fox? If they are not willing to show face then why should I answer your questions." She said glaring at the Loremaster of ceremonies "even Clan Nova Cat sends their third Khan to these proceedings, It is almost as though this body has lost its strength and Clan Stone Rhino is being targeted to soften the blow to your egos." She said eyeing all the other Khans.
"Enough of this! Khan Radick I call you out in a circle of equals" Khan Brett Andrews said stepping down to the floor, the leader of Clan Steel Viper had led the attacks against the Stone Rhinos already and was more than ready for a fight.
"The floor recognizes..." The Loremaster began but Radick cut him off
"On what grounds, more dezgra attacks on Clan Stone Rhino?"
"Dezgra!" Brett Andrews screamed "you're clan use naval bombardment and abandon the field of battle and you call me dezgra?! We will not wait for a Circle of Equals to ground. I will kill you where you stand."
"No!" Dagmar Lahiri screamed raising to his feet "I am not Kael Pershaw, this Hall will be brought to order, the Ebon Keshik will remove anyone who breaks my rule." He said around the Hall the Ebon Keshik's presence was unmistakable even out of their Elemental Armour they were visible and impressive. "Khan Andrews has called a Trial, Khan Radick will you meet him?"
"I shall"
"Good this Hall is in recess." He said turning and leaving the two opposing Khans were last to leave.
"On the plains to the south, two days from now." Elizabeth Radick said agreeing to the grounds of the circle.
"Augmented" Andrews said agreeing they would use Mechs.
"Seyla" they both said completing the tradition before leaving the room silent.
Plains of Kerensky
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
26th June 3079
On the Plains of Kerensky both Khans Brett Andrews and Elizabeth Radick met in a Circle of Equals formed by their two bodyguard Keshiks. Andrews had chosen a swift forty-five ton Shadow Cat OmniMech as his ride opposite to Radick's slower and heavier Nova OmniMech, the fifty ton Mech carried far more weapons and pod space than his Mech.
"I Khan Andrew Brett come to this battle ready to defend the honour of Clan Steel Viper and wipe the stain of Clan Stone Rhino from the Radick name. This is a Circle of Equals, may no other warrior interfere."
"I Khan Elizabeth Radick will defend my honour and position within the Radick Bloodhouse and for Clan Stone Rhino."
"You're name and it's legacy will be reaved when I'm done with your Clan." Andrews taunted her quietly.
"Seyla" she finished before Andrews could answer her she was already launching her Mech skywards with its Jump Jets. Andrew's initial double laser strike at maximum range struck the Nova's left leg and torso, he'd aimed high which meant he'd expected her move and was aiming for the cockpit. Landing the fifty ton Mech flexed as it landed and she ran towards the still stationary Shadow Cat. Again lasers flared from the Shadow Cat's arms both large bore beams slammed into her Mech's right arm knocking out one of her ten lasers. Pushing forward she got into range and fired all nine of her remaining Heavy Medium Lasers at the Steel Viper Khan's Mech, at almost the same time the Mech launched skyward throwing off her shot only four of the over powered beams hit two centrally and one on each leg. Cursing her luck she searched for the Shadow Cat as it disappeared from view, twisting left and right she couldn't see the Shadow Cat but moments later she felt it twelve short range missiles slammed into her Mech's back peppering the armour luckily there were no breaches. Launching skyward again she turned mid air and fired five Heavy medium lasers the white beams from the left arm struck out but mid jump were erratic and only one hit the Shadow Cat on the right arm. The lighter Steel Viper Mech returned fire with a pair of red laser beams one stroked the cockpit as her Mech began to fall back to the ground from its jump, Elizabeth Radick didn't see much of the blast that killed her its beam blinding her sensors as it vaporized her armour protection and burned her cockpit to a crisp MechWarrior included. This ended the Circle and the Stone Rhino's Khan's life.
Unnamed Fringe system
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
28th June 3079
The Clan Wolf WarShip Athens, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, traded ranged shots with the rogue Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser General Stuart, formerly Clan Stone Rhino, before the Cruiser and her attending vessels were able to keep the Athens at range long enough to allow them to jump clear of the system, the Athens reported several civilian vessels with the WarShip however no sign of the Unleashed, the second rogue Stone Rhino vessel. This is the last recorded sighting of these rogue vessels in Homeworlds.
Avalon Base
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
30th June 3079
With Elizabeth Radick dead and their saKhan embattled on York their assets classed as forfeit Clan Stone Rhino's Forty-second Guard Cluster based at Avalon Base, the Clan’s original territory were ready to surrender themselves to the first Clan that came calling however no-one came near. The Stone Rhino's were surprised when the Ebon Keshik arrived around the base. A reinforced cluster of six Battle Armour Trinaries, seventy-five troopers, the defenders of the Khan Halls ordered the Stone Rhinos to stand down and claimed the territory for themselves. The Stone Rhinos were added to the Ebon Keshik's forces as an auxiliary force, officially with no weapons unofficially their Mechs, vehicles and Battle Armour continued to reside at Avalon Base.
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Bye, bye Stone Rhino's.
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Bye, bye Stone Rhino's.
Last remnant of the Smoke Jaguars... maybe a little left in them yet...
Clan Raid
Yed Prior, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
2nd July 3079
It was an audacious raid by Clan Wolf that alerted the Lyran Commonwealth to a new threat on the horizon. The Clan force, a little over two Trinaries had engaged the defending Isle of Skye Battalion caused some damage and left. However reviewing footage captured from the Mechs and observation posts the LIC was able to confirm that every single Long Range Missile shot fired hit its intended target by certain Mechs in the unit and that the Clan Mechs seemed under armed for what weapons they were carrying. Also within the Wolf force there were several Mechs carrying unknown markings which were later traced through the SLDF as markings belonging to the Clan Coyote.
It seemed clear to the Inner Sphere observers at least that Clan Coyote and Clan Wolf had moved closer together and were conducting field exercises as a joint force testing what appeared to be a new Long Ranged version of the Streak Short Range Missile Launcher which was deadly efficient and effective despite its obvious extra weight.
 
Old Feuds
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
8th July 3079
Beginning in the morning and working into the night Clan Jade Falcon are attacked on Strana Mechty, where each Clan was supposed to be equal and supposed to refrain from all out conflict Clan Coyote struck the Jade Falcon positions forcing the sole on planet Jade Falcon unit to retreat off world with Loremaster Bryan Pryde in tow.
Three days later Bryan Pryde returned with the full force of Alpha Galaxy, five full strength clusters and his bodyguard unit dropped all around their former territory and the Coyote's positions. It took six hours for the Ebon Keshik, the Katyusha Keshik and their auxiliary forces to break up the fighting and even then the two Clan's were only separated when the Loremasters of Clans Cloud Cobra and Goliath Scorpion led their own bodyguard Keshik's between the warring parties to reinforce the Ebon Keshik's position effectively becoming a buffer force between the two feuding Clans.
Orbital Hot-Drop, Neon Light Mercer-class DropShip
Herotitus, Periphery
12th July 3079
With word that the Liger Warriors were actually rogue Clan Nova Cat warriors formerly of the Fifteenth Battle Cluster, Xi Galaxy under the command of saKhan Jal Steiner had been dispatched. On the Twelth July they had arrived in orbit and in Clan Nova Cat fashion were intent on making their arrival known. With the Blood Oath, an Aegis-class WarShip assigned to keep an eye on things from just outside orbit the MechWarriors and Battle Armour troopers of Xi Galaxy Hot-dropped from orbit and the high atmosphere over the planet.
As the ablative cocoon around his Shadow Cat disintegrated Jal Steiner was able to orientate his Mech with expert skill. He glanced over his weapons array class-20 Heavy Assault Gauss Rifle (HAG) - green - three Heavy Medium Lasers - Green - two Light Machine Guns – safties off and fully loaded - as the Shadow Cat continued to fall he cut in his OmniMech's Jump Jets to slow the decent. Unlike most Shadow Cat weapons configurations this Mech lacked an advanced Active Probe so he was unable to monitor communications made by the enemy instead Jal had to rely on other members of his unit. "Rossei, call out if you have anything" he ordered.
"Galaxy Commander, we have Capellan Confederation encryption on the ground, no Clan or open frequencies." His comm. expert Lisa Drummond answered moments later her Kingfisher had advanced communications equipment not seen on normal Mechs.
"It is unlike them to have changed over to a Spheroid band, Quineg?"
"Neg, it would cost them much time and effort, which I do not believe they have had nor do I think they would have wasted."
"So we may have a hostile Inner Sphere force on the ground?"
"And in the air, saKhan we have a squadron of Inner Sphere Aerospace fighters vectoring on your position. My fighters are committing" Star Captain Alice Leroux said breaking in her Sythca OmniFighter had been orbiting the entire time watching.
"All warriors be on the watch for incoming fighters, defend yourself as you are able." Jal Steiner ordered as the first fighter flew past him an ancient Trident Aerospace fighter, he quickly switched channels to DropShip command "Star Commodore Lossey." He said calling his overall DropShip commander.
"Go ahead, saKhan"
"Find somewhere close to our landing points for your DropShips to land, looks like we may have missed the Ligers and have Capellan forces instead."
"Understood, we will wait until you scatter point then land centrally for all units. Armour will stay buttoned up unless we get attacked on the ground." He quickly said the DropShips would be entering the atmosphere now but would remain in orbit until all units were grounded ensuring no Mech or Battle Armour unit was left out to dry.
Minutes past and Jal Steiner's command star finally landed, a quick role call confirmed no-one was damaged or down from the drop. The air was immediately full of weapons fire however missiles, autocannon and laser fire filling the air, soon artillery strikes were landing in the area as well adding to the confusion. "Rossei on me!" Jal called charging his forty-five ton Mech into the fight firing his HAG-20 as he ran the rapid fire assault gauss rifle connecting with a thirty-five ton Anubis scout Mech that had gotten in his way. The fire ripped off armour from several areas of the Mech making the pilot lose balance and fall on his back. Jal didn't stop running his Mech literally over the light Mech crushing it into the ground, his Shadow Cat's feet slipped slightly as he moved over the Mech as metal grind against metal but the move paid off as he ran on the Anubis' long range missile ammo cooked off and exploded gutting the BattleMech in a red and orange fireball. "Continue to engage until our DropShips ground." Jal Steiner ordered before switching frequencies "Capellan force, this is saKhan Jal Steiner of Clan Nova Cat; we came to this world to exterminate members of our Clan's Dark Caste. We are not looking to fight you today."
"Then you should not have invaded our realm Herotitus is considered to be a Capellan Confederation protectorate world. There are no clansmen here except you and your unit."
"We have no quarrel with you" Jal said firing his three lasers at another BattleMech and his machine guns at conventional infantry forces as more and more Capellan targets arrived. "Rossei fall back" he said switching channels "Lossey ETA?"
"Fifty-two seconds until touch down. We are approximately three hundred metres south of your position."
"Too far" Jal whispered before clearing his throat speaking louder "understood Lossey make sure my Galaxy make it out." He said striking out with the HAG, lasers and machine guns all at once hitting three different targets slowing the Capellan movements as they considered his threat worth.
"saKhan?" Lossey asked but Steiner ignored the DropShip commander his OmniMech was like an immobile titan standing blazing fire at several targets at once firing constantly keeping the Capellans back, the other members of the Rossei had fallen back as ordered but he remained firing constantly. His lone Shadow Cat was becoming a target of several Capellan designs however his constant fire was keeping them back. The HAG Rifle which made up the majority of the left arm clunked to a stop and ceased firing, out of ammo, but all three opal Heavy lasers continued to burn. "saKhan fall back, we have ninety percent all forces on board."
"As soon as all assets on board launch off world, with or without me." He ordered throttling his Mech back several steps, on the fourth step however his Mech was hit by a heavy autocannon blast to the right knee, the actuator exploded under the stress and fire blowing the limb in half. Jal did not fight the fall instead fired his three heavy lasers one more time in defiance before the Mech fell sprawled over the ground. A green Emperor Assault Mech walked into view as Jal Steiner's sensors confirmed several DropShip launches his Galaxy was away the rolling onto his left arm crushing the useless rifle. As he raised his right arm in defiance firing his lasers again, the Emperor fired its own Particle cannon and medium pulse lasers consuming the Shadow Cat in weapons fire killing the Nova Cat saKhan.
With the Nova Cats in retreat and Herotitus' economy in shreds the Capellan Confederation made good on the Canopian Fusiliers commander's claim and made the world a Capellan Confederation Protectorate world and the new home to the Second Canopian Fusiliers. As for Xi Galaxy unable to track the Liger Warriors and having lost their commander chose to head home instead of antagonizing the Confederation anymore.
Clan Occupation Zone
Ft Loudon, Wolf Territory
Inner Sphere
22nd July 3079
A raid for Clan Jade Falcon against Clan Wolf turns sour for both Clans as an unidentified unit of Heavy Armour assaults both units during their Trial of Possession. Both Clans take heavy damage in the exchange with little to show in return. Neither Clan is able to track their armoured foe although the Ft. Loudon networks are flooded as "Beware the Eisenjaegers" is broadcast on every network including the Clan's Chatterweb. From Clan Intelligence this is a new elite Armour company formed by the Lyran Commonwealth, the Commonwealth is making an obvious point, they still have interest in lost worlds. Included with he Eisenjagers are several OmniVehicles and a prototype Challenger XVC from House Davion's experimental weapons division. The tank proves especially deadly to Clan Elementals and vehicles.
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Clan Coyote Territory
Hoard, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
1st August 3079
Unable to hurt Clan Coyote on Strana Mechty Loremaster Bryan Pryde leads an Alpha Galaxy Cluster against the Coyote territory on Hoard in the Kerensky Cluster. On planet they find the two trinaries of the eighty-first Strike Cluster, Zeta Galaxy, for Clan Coyote. The Jade Falcons under Bryan's command dispatch the two Trinaries killing ever single Coyote opponent claiming the territory for Clan Jade Falcon.
Black Widow Company Base
Southern Continent
New Canton, Star League Protectorate
6th August 3079
On the ground not far from the base camp of the Gray Death Legion the Opacus Venatori decides to turn the tide on the Wolf’s Dragoon’s Black Widow Company. The Dragoons were resting after hours of fruitless searching for the Opacus Venatori, rumours and reports placed the unit on the world but still there was no sign. Stacy Church had their recon lance on patrol while the others went about their business repairing Mechs and getting some rest. But something was wrong looking around her she felt like there were eyes on her "Get to your Mechs" she ordered almost in a whisper before raising her radio to her mouth "All MechWarriors to your Mechs prepare for instant incoming! Recon Lance be alert."
"Too late Captain, we have incoming Blake Mechs moving up on us fast." The commander of her recon lance said as his Locust ran past the camp followed by several PPC blasts that went wide. Stacy ran for her Zeus and saw other members of the company powering up their machines just as the red and white Mech of Precentor Berith smashing a tree out of the way, the Blakists were not coming they were here.
Climbing into her Zeus Stacy quickly activated the communications systems first "Unity, all units rally on me, support troops clear out of the fighting as quickly as possible. Lair, we've been engaged requesting air support."
"Negative Captain we have been engaged by two Interdictor-class DropShips, only light damage so far but I need my fighter screen." The Fredasa’s commander replied shortly afterwards. The Interdictor was a Blakist produced DropShip that had seen only light production before ComStar had smashed them. Obviously the Blakists had a secret shipyard providing the Opacus Venatori with support.
"Understood, Unity" she said again repeating the call over the radio as a Sentinel exploded off to her right side, another of her warriors dead. Particle cannon fire hit her BattleMech but she was satisfied when she noticed the experimental Blue Shield equipment cut down the blast damage.
"Captain, we have four more contacts from the south, they have a different IFF from the attacking Mechs."
"Understood, hold the Opacus here, I will check the newcomers."
"Alone?"
"If they are hostile we're going to know about it either way." She said turning her Mech to face the incoming Mechs moments later her sensors lit up as she saw the incoming Mechs. The first was a Centurion, medium weight and stalwart of House Davion; this Mech didn't look like a standard model the Mech almost looked fat around the torso section. "Encroaching Lance this is the Black Widow Company, Wolf's Dragoons, you are entering a combat zone stand out of the way or risk damage."
"Captain Church, this is Project Leader Michael Greig commander of the Golden Legion, we stand ready to assist you in your fight against the Opacus Venatori." The answer came as a Caesar, Legionnaire and what looked like a Hoplite walked through the trees joining the Centurion. None of the four Mechs looked like a standard BattleMech design each had something about them that made it stand out from the standard model.
"Who are you?"
"That's classified information Captain; let's just say we share the same goals as you."
"My people are in combat, you set a single foot wrong and I guarantee you won't live long enough to regret it." She said without another word she turned and headed back into the fight.
The four Golden Legion Mechs moved swiftly into combat the Centurion throwing in the first surprise by launching itself skywards on jump jets, Stacy watched the Mech fly and noted to herself that she's have to keep an eye on these newcomers. The Hoplite was next in range and the oversized autocannon on its right side roared into life showering the Blake Mechs with missile rounds. Both Mechs were showing extensive modifications which were turning the tide for Stacy’s Black Widows "Black Widows, Unity, on me let's push them right back and keep an eye on the Golden Legion." She said gunning her Mech forwards into the attack, nearly three hours later the Opacus Venatori disengaged following an air-strike that dropped inferno munitions covering their path.
Three hours after the Opacus Venatori had disengaged the Widow's Lair reported detecting a DropShip making a fast burn away from the planet way beyond what the Lair was capable of; the Blakists had successfully killed three more Wolf's Dragoons and gotten away. On the plus side the Golden Legion led by Michael Greig had proven themselves capable and willing to stay around, the firepower their unique Mechs brought to the Black Widows were more than welcome and brought her unit to thirteen Mechs, hopefully the next encounter with the Word of Blake forces would be the end.
Isle of Skye Facility
Freedom, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
12th August 3079
The continued thirst to strengthen the Isle of Skye Armed Forces power within its own borders and within the Lyran Commonwealth leads to the formation of the First Freedom Training Battalion. This formation the fifth of its type leads General of Armies Keane Sortek to ask Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner, commander of the Isle of Skye military, when this armament process will end.
The Duke answers when his people can sleep at night and feel safe in their beds, sighting the recent attack by Clan Wolf against Yedi Prior. In response to these fears Keane offers to loan a regiment or two of LCAF to the Isle of Skye to secure the borders however Robert refuses saying his people are more than up to the task it shows both Keane Sortek and Archon Peter Steiner-Davion that the Isle of Skye is becoming more independent all the time, perhaps recklessly so.
Nova Cat Territory
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
15th August 3079
A joint attack with forces comprised of both Clan Goliath Scorpion’s Mu Galaxy and Cloud Cobra’s Epsilon Galaxy attack Barcella forcing Clan Nova Cat onto the defensive. Though all sides suffer minimal casualties it becomes obvious to Clan Nova Cat's Watch that these two Clans are clinging to each other for support and are barely operational when working alone. During the fighting Star Colonel Elson Novacat, Elemental commander of the Four hundred and forty-ninth Assault Cluster impresses Oathmaster Zane Carns and despite being into his forties and one of the oldest Elementals in Alpha Galaxy Zane supports him for the Bloodname Trials for the West Bloodname to take place shortly afterwards. Showing his prowess in a Circle of Equals as well as on the battlefield Star Colonel Elson Novacat becomes Elson West.
Nova Cat Hall
Philip Drummond City, Dagda
New Barcella, Nova Cat's Den
19th August 3079
In front of the assembled commanders of the Nova Cat Galaxies based in the Nova Cat's Den and via watched by Oathmaster Zane Carns via HPG link-up Khan Canin Rosse names Galaxy Commander Ajax Drummond, long term commander of Tau Galaxy, becomes the new saKhan of Clan Nova Cat replacing the deceased Jal Steiner. As a result of this move Tau Galaxy which had been much maligned for its garrison status and large amount of vehicles in it’s TO&E effectively becomes Clan Nova Cat's second Galaxy. Xi Galaxy as the Galaxy that lost the last saKhan on a simple pirate hunt takes over many of the jobs that used to be taken by Tau Galaxy, and becomes the unit Nova Cats wish to avoid joining. It comes under the command of newly promoted Galaxy Commander Tyrina Drummond.
Periphery Road
Niops IV, Periphery
23rd August 3079
With their safe harbour on Herotitus gone the Liger Warriors made their way through the former Free Worlds League's periphery areas avoiding as much Free Worlds aerospace patrols as possible they head back into the periphery and land on Niops IV. On planet they find a population trying to recover from the Marian Hegemony's brutal occupation as they try to rebuild their independence and put together a working government.
Initially the Ligers take a different path than when they arrieved on Herotitus staying in their DropShips only trading for supplies and offering their skills. When after two weeks on the planet the leader of the provisional government Prime Minister Christopher Devin approaches them and offers them a contract to support the government in defending Niops VI from future threats. In a change of form Colonel Trent Higall swayed by the Prime Minister's words agrees to work for Niopian people. He admits to the Prime Minister that his people are mostly renegade Nova Cat Clansmen and that the Nova Cats could be following them - Christopher Devin reaffirms his offer feeling that future Clan rule couldn't be any worse than the Marian Hegemony's rule. The Liger Warriors become contracted to Niops defences on all their worlds.
Snow Raven Enclave
Quatre Belle, Outworlds Alliance
Periphery
28th August 3079
After several incidents between Outworlds Alliance civilians and Snow Raven warriors the Snow Ravens decide that before any amount of their civilians can move into the Alliance they need secure places to live. The Snow Ravens begin construction of three large SkyCities on major worlds of the Outworlds Alliance that the Snow Raven civilians will share. Although this breaks the two populations apart it does keep the merger of Periphery Nation and Clan on the tracks.
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Field Testing
GM Test Range, New Valencia
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th September 3079
On New Valencia in the Federated Suns several scientists and engineers under the command of Dr Salana Tarq were testing a new hybrid chassis based on the Templar OmniMech. The PDG-1X codename Pendragon was a ninety-five ton test bed chassis for testing new weapons and new advances in manufacturing techniques as well as trying to build a new BattleMech.
The current prototype, Unit 3, was moving at long range for it's weapons intent on bombarding the base positions while weathering return fire Dr Tarq was watching from her position aboard a MR-8C Marco Observation Mech. The Pendragon was moving carefully over some uneven ground near the a small outgrowth of stones when a hidden particle cannon turret raised from the ground and fired on the Mech causing two hits on the left torso. Dr Tarq was annoyed to see the hit had penetrated the armour but she knew any internal damage would be contained by the CASE II technology built into the design. To her horror the CASE II failed and the Extended Long Range Missile ammunition aboard the Mech ripped through the torso blowing through the chest and head consuming the entire Mech in a massive fireball, moments later the fusion engine also gave way and erupted into a huge catastrophic explosion. Parts of BattleMech were flown hundreds of metres as it disintegrated.
Looking around the area with her range finders Salana Tarq couldn't see the pilot, a waste on two accounts, she thought however looking behind the Mech she could see the rocks had been moved and a passage had been opened. "Pilot, vector medical and salvage crews, take me over there." The pilot in his half open cockpit moved slowly over to the site of the destroyed Pendragon. Salana looked over the Mech's remains there was nothing much left but she was more interested in what lay behind the Mech, several cracks in the rocks showed there was something behind them. "Pilot, is your salvage arm strong enough to open this area?"
"I doubt it, Doctor, it doesn't look safe in the immediate area. I'd suggest we get a Tunnel Rat squad out to assist." He said naming the specialist GM manufactured mining suit capable of exploiting just this sort of find.
"Call them in."
Three hours later six Tunnel Rat equipped engineers were exploiting the area around the cracked ground. Amazingly they were uncovering what appeared to be an ancient Vampire-class DropShip, an early Federated Suns infantry DropShip. The rocks had obviously fallen on the design trapping it and over the years buried it. Uncovering more of the ship they discovered something else behind the ship. As the engineers worked through the night Dr Salana Tarq dived into reports about New Valencia, the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns had always maintained a presence on the world almost as a ready world for use against a Capellan Confederation or Draconis Combine strike against the 'Terra Zone' of the Draconis and Capellan Marches. Dr Tarq believed that the GM test facility had possibly been built over a long forgotten Davion Jump Trooper Test School.
In the morning three ATAE-70 Uni CargoMech arrived to pull the half crushed Vampire-class DropShip out from underneath the rocks revealing a facility underneath. Within this facility Dr Tarq’s team discover several Mechs and vehicles from the Star League-era all marked as AFFS property as well as a memory core which includes design specifications for the Defender-class Battle-cruiser, the New Syrtis-class Strike Carrier and the Robinson-class Transport.
Homer, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
14th September 3079
In retaliation for the joint strike against Clan Nova Cat territory on Barcella Oathmaster Zane Carns leads elements of Alpha Galaxy escorted by the WarShips Remembrance and Path of Honour two Nova Cat Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers. Striking at a prominent Cloud Cobra world Homer they find elements of Clan Cloud Cobra’s Zeta Galaxy supported by the Eleventh Scorpion Guards of Clan Goliath Scorpions Mu Galaxy.
When both Cloud Cobra WarShips the Hell’s Fury, a Fredasa-class Corvette, and Trump, a Vincent-class Corvette, refuse to engage the far larger Nova Cat WarShips Oathmaster Zane Carns calls on the Ground Forces to answer his challenge. The Nova Cat Oathmaster refuses to make an call for possession of territory or units only that the forces of both Clans meet his in battle and answer for their attack on Barcella.
An hour and a half later the Cloud Cobra commander agrees that a force culled from all three of his Clusters will meet the Nova Cats along with the Eleventh Scorpion Guards. Satisfied Zane lands with his Shiva Keshik and the 450th Assault Cluster commanded by Star Colonel Elson West. Though Elson’s Assault Cluster is able to hand the Eleventh Scorpion Guards a crushing defeat the Shiva Keshik receives a minor defeat, though the Cloud Cobra unit against them is devastated. With honour satisfied the Nova Cats leave the system.
Salem Military Hospital
Salem, Kathil PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
20th September 3079
The Military Hospital at the Royal Salem Military Base was a buzz of activity something had gone wrong while testing a pair of prototype BattleMechs and the hospital was being flooded with injuries from the Davion Heavy Guards RCT based on planet. “Make a space! Coming Through!†Came a shout from a group of infantry led by a Sergeant-Major between them they pushed a trolley with a badly burned and injured man dressed in MechWarrior togs.
“Sergeant-Major, this is a hospital, we have injured here.†The Senior Doctor said stepping in the troopers way.
“Sir, we have another patient for you, he needs immediate treatment.†The Sergeant-Major said stepping aside.
“I have many…†he began but his voice trailed off as he saw who was on the trolley, a barely moving Field Marshal Jonathon Davion. “Clear the OR, follow me†he said immediately turning around leading the troopers down the hall as the commander of the Davion Guards and a cousin to the First Prince was led into the Operating Room where he would be for eight hours.
Pirate Raid
Niops, Niops Association
Periphery
22nd September 3079
Mere months after the Liger Warriors had arrived on the system of Niops they received their first test with a raid by the Second Order of the Faithful off Astrokazy, The mainly former Clan unit surprised the Order troops with their use of Elemental Battle Armour suits as well as far more powerful firepower than they were used to. The back-up provided by the Niops Association’s local Nighthawk Power Armour suits and a few recently produced Arbiter Combat IndustrialMechs proved the better of the Order of the Faithful and they were forced off world. As was standard Niops Association Policy they sent out HPG warnings to all nearby worlds warning that the Order of the Faithful were on the prowl.
A week later the world of Lesnovo in the Free Worlds League’s Rim Commonality sent word back to Niops they were under attack. Answering this call for assistance Colonel Trent Higall led one of his Trinaries reinforced by an entire Trinary of Arbiter Combat IndustrialMechs and his aerospace forces to the world of Lesnovo handing the Order of the Faithful a second defeat though he lost almost all the Arbiters in the fighting. With the salvage taken from the two worlds the Ligers were able to take their forces back to strength and add forces. The Rim Commonality Government hearing of this development and the Liger Warriors strength offered them the position of Guardians of the Realm charged with protecting the Rim Commonality. Having already agreed to protect the Niops Association Trent Higall agreed but only on the condition that his forces also defend Niops. When representatives of both realms met they went one step further and united their two nations forming the Rim Association with the Liger Warriors forming the core of their defences.
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Wolf Hall
Harlech, Romulus
Outreach, Star League Protectorate
9th October 3079
Just days after the Wolf’s Dragoons agreed to a five year contract with Lyran Commonwealth the Colonels announce that Colonel Kelly Yukinov long term commander of Alpha Regiment was stepping down as the unit’s full time commander and was to be the new General of the Wolf’s Dragoons, the first General since Maeve Wolf’s death.
In the Lyran Commonwealth Beta and Epsilon Regiment now both up to strength would be helping safeguard the Jade Falcon borders along with the Kell Hounds and Clan Wolf (in-Exile). Within days of the two regiments’ departure Zeta Battalion and the Congress Block II-class Frigate Beowulf both left Outreach outbound to join them on the Clan border.
PROJECT MUSE, Test Site 44-J2A
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
15th October 3079
It hurt to stand, move and sometimes even think but Field Marshal Jonathon Davion knew it was the only way he’d know he was alive. Dressed in his uniform for the first time in a month since his injuries on Salem he no stood in an office overlooking Avalon City on New Avalon, the capital of his family’s realm the Federated Suns.
The doctors on Salem and at NAIS here on New Avalon had said he would make a full recovery, although a couple of scars would remain with him they had faded and were easily concealed, most importantly he would be able to take command of his unit again. “It would take time for your body to return to its prime.†Was what they had said. As a result he’d send a message to Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner announcing of his immediate, if temporary, standing-down as commander of the Davion Heavy Guards. This had resulted in a visit from First Prince Victor Davion as soon as he had stepped off the DropShip onto New Avalon. Jon had told the First Prince, his cousin that is he wasn’t capable of leading his men in battle then he would not serve until he was ready, Victor had other ideas.
After a week on New Avalon Jon had received information on PROJECT MUSE which was charged with creating new weapons technology for the AFFS. Although he had no orders to join the program Jon recognized it for what it was Victor’s own way of helping him recover, of keeping his mind active while his body returned. When he had asked for information on where the program was based a car had been sent to his family’s home in the suburbs of Avalon City and he’d been taken to the base. Officially known as Test Site 44-J2A, a non-descript government/military building overlooking one of the NAIS minor training ranges roughly a kilometre from the outskirts of Avalon City. The entire area was surrounded by high trees and security fences.
Across from the building Jon could see MechWarriors training on the training range. The door to the office opened behind him, Jon Davion tried to turn smartly but he was slowed and it hurt every move in front of him stood Major General Sandra Hall-Pujanauski head developer of the MUSE FIRE PROJECT.
“Field Marshal†she said saluting “welcome to PROJECT MUSE†she said.
“Thank you, Major-General.†Jon said slowly returning the salute “not what I expected.â€
“Well not all of our facilities are like this one.â€
“I’m sure I’ll see them all eventually.†He said quietly walking over to the desk, his desk, “Major-General, I am not a test-pilot nor do I know the first thing about a desk job. The First Prince thinks I can help here, I’m not certain, the last test I was at went wrong.â€
“Yes, sir, I heard.†She said quietly “only few of our pilots are test drivers, the rest of us work together and try and make things a success.†She said continuing “I do not know if the First Prince thinks we need a baby-sitter from the royal family but so far the project is running fine.â€
“The last thing I’m going to be is a baby-sitter, Major-General†Jon said firmly “I’m here until I can get back to my own job.†He said continuing he was beginning to think that agreeing to come her taking an interest was wrong. “Perhaps you should show me what is happening here.â€
“Of course if you can follow me we’ll be going down to the Equipment Floor.†She said turning out the office, Jon Davion slowly followed her. They went into an elevator in the hallway and it quickly moved down into the basement. Sandra left the elevator entering a large cavernous room, on any other base it would have housed almost a Company of Mechs however here there were only two BattleMechs, three combat vehicles and several weapons laid out everywhere. Looking up at the Mechs he recognized one as a Legionnaire, a relatively new design with a huge autocannon over it’s shoulder, the second looked like nothing he’d ever seen with an almost perfect ball for a head and rounded armour all over two double barrelled weapons dominated both arms. “Welcome to the Equipment room. That’s a LGN-2X1 Legionnaire MUSE FIRE, an experimental version of the standard design, and the other is an ENF-7X Enforcer MUSE COMPACT.â€
“Wait, that’s an Enforcer? It looks nothing like one?†Sandra replied with a small laugh
“Welcome to R&D Volume One, Field Marshal†she said wandering off into the room, Jon followed slowly looking at each piece of technology.
Jump Point
Algate system, Chandahar Prefecture
Pesht Military District Draconis Combine
18th October 3079
When a intelligence intercept received information that two WarShips had been sighted within the Algate system of the Chandahar system the Draconis Combine had deployed the DCS Tokyo, the Draconis Combine’s sole Artemis-class Diplomatic Vessel gained from the now defunct ComStar. The Diplomatic vessel was useless to the admiralty but any information it could gain would prove invaluable for the Combine’s heavier WarShips marshalling at New Samarkand.
The crew of the Tokyo did not like being considered as expendable and during their burn from Dieron to Algate they went over all the data concerning the system and found a pirate point rarely used except by the most desperate trader or pirate. Chancing they luck they began calculations, on the 18th October the DCS Tokyo jumped into the pirate point just outside the third planet’s lunar orbit.
From this position the ship was able to gather information on both WarShips one a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser the other a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser. Transmitting the data to the planet’s surface the local ISF agent was able to pass the information to ISF headquarters on New Samarkand. The Tokyo’s crew knowing their almost unarmed vessel would have no chance against a fighter squadron let alone two heavily armed WarShips chose to remain hidden in position and feed data back to the planet’s surface.
Two days after the Tokyo’s arrival the two WarShips began moving in system towards the planet. Unable to fight conventionally the Tokyo retreated to the system’s largest Gas Giant, fifth in the system and entered the giant’s rings continuing to monitor the two WarShips as they dodged huge deposits of ice and rock.
Fortunately for the Tokyo and the people of Algate the two WarShips never made it to the planet’s surface the Takashi Kurita, the Combine’s newest Omi Kurita-class Super-carrier and the Raven’s Roost, an Inazuma-class Corvette, both arrived in system. The two intruding WarShips obviously did not want to force a confrontation as they moved to the same pirate point the Tokyo had entered from and jumped clear of the system.
Although surprised, and slightly annoyed, the Tokyo had survived its role in defending the system was unquestioned when the Admiralty had seen the data the Tokyo had been able to provide the ISF agent on planet. With all thirty-five crew commended for their actions each was offered positions on other ships of the DCA fleet however only three left after it was announced that the Tokyo would be renovated and become a fully functional observation/spy craft at Dieron Shipyards. The Tokyo’s crew chose to stay together and with the ship that had made their careers something the DCA commanders understood but wondered if they had made the right choice.
Fifth Martial Olympiad
Olympiad Grounds, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
27th October 3079
With the Fifth Martial Olympiad coming to a close on Defiance deep within the Federated Suns the victors turn out to be all Clan based in another year of domination by the former invaders. Clan Wolf’s Thirteenth Battle Cluster commanded by Star Colonel Evon Ward wins almost every competition on the ground to claim the trophy.
In Space the competition is also dominated by the Clan forces represented with Clan Snow Raven’s Lord Death, the reigning champions, looking at a third victory. The Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser was however defeated at the last throw of the dice as Clan Sea Fox’s Nagasawa, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, from the Snapping Jaws Khanate wins event.
Star League Naval Command Headquarters
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
5th November 3079
With the Star League Council being brought to session in less than two weeks Fleet Admiral David Natale had made a decision that would likely make or break his career. For months Dr David Lear had been travelling from his University post in Chicago to petition to lead a team into the Kuiper Belt of the Sol system in search for a hidden SLDF base. Up until now the Admiral had refused all deep space scans from the Titan Fleet Yards had detected nothing, however Dr Lear was tenacious and with his father in charge of the St Ives Compact the doctor had the political clout if needed. Instead Admiral Natale had made the choice to assign the DropShip and a group of scientists and researchers to Dr Lear’s command and sent the information to Commanding-General Archer Christifori, it would give the SLDF commander something to say at the Council meeting at least.
Nation Wide Broadcast
DCS Nagato (Yamato-class Battleship)
Sol System, Star League Protectorate
10th November 3079
Dressed in the full military uniform of a Draconis Combine Warlord Minoru Kurita, the regent for Vincent Kurita and de-facto leader of the Combine took a small podium with the Draconis Combine’s Dragon behind him. “People of the Draconis Combine, today as I travel to Terra to represent the Draconis Combine at the Star League Conference I have to announce another black day for our nation, several years ago Galedon V was infected by a virus that forced us to quarantine the world from all visitors.†Minoru paused taking a breath “it is my solemn duty to inform you all today that despite the best efforts of the Draconis Combine Mustered Society and of the Star League Defence Force and all our scientists combined that approximately ninety percent of the native population of Galedon V have died from these viruses. The remaining population have been moved off world to Draconis Combine Research facilities in an effort to contain these viruses and find a cure so these people can return to leading a productive life. As of this date the Draconis Combine government is officially listing Galedon V as a dead world, warning satellites are being deployed at the jump points and in orbit of the world. Please do not attempt any travel to this world, if you have any surviving relatives on Galedon V please contact your local Government reprehensive. Thank you.†he said standing down from the podium. With Minoru’s WarShip Nagato sitting at the Nadir point of the Sol System the whole Terran system and by extension the Star League Protectorate would know about it, soon the whole Inner Sphere.
Eighth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
14th November 3079
Following Minoru Kurita’s broadcast from his WarShip the Star League Conference started on a more sombre note with the Draconis Combine leader addressing the council. “My fellow lords, although I am sure you all have questions of my recent announcement, I would direct you to information Tablet’s being passed around now. These will provide you with any information on Galedon’s fate.†He said pausing on a sombre note “now however we have the reason we are all here. The Star League Defence Force. I am glad to say that the past few years have been productive and I believe my position as First Lord has strengthened the bonds of the Star League Defence Force and their relations with other nations. Particular notice should go to Commanding-General Archer Christifori and his staff who have worked tirelessly to return the Star League Defence Force to its previous glory. I can say with absolute conviction the Commanding-General has my complete confidence.†Minoru said looking at Archer who sat beside Caradoc Trevena and David Natale at the Star League Defence Force table, although their position on this council was only ceremonial it was a reminder to all the lords as to who truly commanded the Star League‘s reborn armed forces.
“First business for this council is the acceptance of two new members to this table Captain-General Kiric Cameron-Jones of the Regulan Fiefs and Chancellor Naomi Centrella of the Capellan Confederation. The Regulan Fiefs although at this table will have no voting rights until 3082 and the Capellan Confederation because of their previous position on this council and their subsequent leaving the Star League will have to wait until 3085 until they are allowed to vote.†Minoru said Kiric Cameron-Jones dressed in a well fitted business suit sat between the other two Captain-Generals around the table Jeremy Brett and Corrine Marik, of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth respectfully. While Naomi Centrella sat next to Minoru Kurita facing Duke Kai Allard-Liao of the St Ives Compact. With so many hostile nations around the table Minoru himself was surprised the room did not erupt into weapons fire.
“There will be conferences throughout the day and opportunities for the new nations leaders to meet with representatives of the Star League Defence Force and work out how they can best contribute to the League’s Defence Force. For now however I bid that this session is complete. Thank you for your attendance.†Minoru said picking up his papers as his aides moved aside few of the other State Lords moved for a moment as they psyched each other up Victor Davion was the first to leave not because he was intimidated just because he had not time for further discussion with the other leaders. The others left shortly after the First Prince had left the room.
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Eighth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
14th November 3079
Following Minoru Kurita’s broadcast from his WarShip the Star League Conference started on a more sombre note with the Draconis Combine leader addressing the council. “My fellow lords, although I am sure you all have questions of my recent announcement, I would direct you to information Tablet’s being passed around now. These will provide you with any information on Galedon’s fate.†He said pausing on a sombre note “now however we have the reason we are all here. The Star League Defence Force. I am glad to say that the past few years have been productive and I believe my position as First Lord has strengthened the bonds of the Star League Defence Force and their relations with other nations. Particular notice should go to Commanding-General Archer Christifori and his staff who have worked tirelessly to return the Star League Defence Force to its previous glory. I can say with absolute conviction the Commanding-General has my complete confidence.†Minoru said looking at Archer who sat beside Caradoc Trevena and David Natale at the Star League Defence Force table, although their position on this council was only ceremonial it was a reminder to all the lords as to who truly commanded the Star League‘s reborn armed forces.
“First business for this council is the acceptance of two new members to this table Captain-General Kiric Cameron-Jones of the Regulan Fiefs and Chancellor Naomi Centrella of the Capellan Confederation. The Regulan Fiefs although at this table will have no voting rights until 3082 and the Capellan Confederation because of their previous position on this council and their subsequent leaving the Star League will have to wait until 3085 until they are allowed to vote.†Minoru said Kiric Cameron-Jones dressed in a well fitted business suit sat between the other two Captain-Generals around the table Jeremy Brett and Corrine Marik, of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth respectfully. While Naomi Centrella sat next to Minoru Kurita facing Duke Kai Allard-Liao of the St Ives Compact. With so many hostile nations around the table Minoru himself was surprised the room did not erupt into weapons fire.
“There will be conferences throughout the day and opportunities for the new nations leaders to meet with representatives of the Star League Defence Force and work out how they can best contribute to the League’s Defence Force. For now however I bid that this session is complete. Thank you for your attendance.†Minoru said picking up his papers as his aides moved aside few of the other State Lords moved for a moment as they psyched each other up Victor Davion was the first to leave not because he was intimidated just because he had not time for further discussion with the other leaders. The others left shortly after the First Prince had left the room.
Eighth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
16th November 3079
The meetings had gone on for two days before the State lords met again in the grand hall chamber. Minoru Kurita still representing the position as First Lord as well as the Combine stood first as was tradition. “Today we have a presentation by Commanding-General Archer Christifori on a new program the Star League wishes to begin.†Minoru said nodding to the Commanding-General who stood up from his table.
“Lords and Ladies of the Star League, as was this Star League’s intention the Star League Defence Force has went from strength to strength in recent years with new units forming training and fighting for the Star League and each of your nations. Even with damage done to the Star League Defence Force fighting the Clans and other conflicts.†He said quietly, each of the Houses had sparred with the Star League at one point, each knew the new Star League was gaining muscle and could not be pushed around easily. “I assume no-one had any objections to the efforts the Star League has gone to keep the peace and protect the Inner Sphere from the Clans?†He asked offering them a chance to complain, no-one spoke.
“Good, because I have.†He said savouring the look as he saw at least three members of the Council look surprised “the Star League has strength in numbers however what we lack is finishing. The Martial Olympiad which each of your nations joins with the Star League and hones our skills certainly helps however it is competition, the Star League Defence Force needs a training facility that will turn the good Star League warriors we have into the experts. The Program I refer to is Gunslinger, originally conceived by the First Star League as a Program for the best of the best troopers I want to bring this program back and put the best Star League warriors through it to turn them into warriors who can challenge even the best the Clans can throw at us.†Archer said finishing his impassioned speech remaining standing to wait for questions or rebuttal.
“Herr Commanding-General, I have a question if I may?†Archon Peter Steiner-Davion asked standing at his desk is Germanic accent perhaps more noticeable than normal for the benefit of the council. Archer nodded his willingness to answer questions.
“Who will pay for this project?â€
“The nation of bean counters speaks.†Captain-General Kiric Cameron-Jones said quietly, Archer ignored the Regulan leader as he answered the Archon.
“I have spoken with the Star League Chief of Staff Major-General Caradoc Tervena and we have come up with cuts in the SLDF’s purchasing and unit formations will be cut back. Also the process of reactivating ComStar’s damaged WarShip fleet will be scaled back slightly.†Beside Archer David Natale, Fleet Admiral of the Fleet didn’t look most pleased with the announcement but remained silent. For his part Peter looked satisfied and sat down again.
“Will this be an open facility for our warriors to attend also or an exclusive Star League Facility? “ Victor Steiner-Davion asked from his chair.
“Initially the first three years we will maintain it as an exclusive Star League Defence Facility. However at the next Star League Conference I cannot see why we would not allow other nations to send limited amounts of personnel to the facility.â€
“You sound like this facility is complete?†Duke Kai Allard-Liao asked raising briefly.
“Not completely however we have run preliminary checks on grounds for the facility and have spoken with the people of the world we plan on building on.â€
“Where is this world?†Marshal Jeremy Brett asked taking an interest in the project.
“Procyon, the world has a proud heritage dating back to the Terran Hegemony. Since it an the other Sirian worlds joined the Protectorate they have began to reach towards their Star League heights. We intend to promote this. The city of Cleveburg has been a virtual ghost town for the last forty-fifty years we plan on turning into exactly that making the entire metropolitan area a live fire zone for BattleMechs, Armour and Vehicles. Aerospace units may also be added at a later date however this will initially cater mainly for the conventional army.â€
“What of Earthwerks they have a factory facility there that sells engineering vehicles and BattleMechs to my nation and others around this table.†Captain-General Corrine Marik said protesting at the loss of any facility that would support her armies.
“The Earthwerks Facility would be maintained as it is and the area around it would be converted into academy grounds for the program’s use. The company would likely find itself in a better position to test its newer designs especially once we get up and running. I think a good way to test warriors would be to pit them against Mechs they have never seen.†Archer explained the companies position he didn’t know how they would react but also didn’t really care the Star League needed this facility.
“If that is all questions I believe we should call a vote†Minoru Kurtia said “as the outgoing First Lord I will vote for the Draconis Combine first. I vote for the Gunslinger program to be reinstated.â€
“As do I†Prime Minister Kai Allard-Liao, the St Ives leader was well known as one of the best Inner Sphere pilots and gunners so it was little shock he supported the endeavour.
“The Federated Suns will also support this.†First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion said with it being his turn.
“The Taurian Concordat will not however, I believe the cost is more likely to outweigh the benefits.â€
“The Marik-Stewart-Commonwealth with abstain from voting, although I am not convinced that Earthwerks will not be infringed on this facility will likely have nothing to do with my nation and I will have nothing to do with it.†A Corrine Marik said not raising from her chair.
“The Duchy of Tamarind-Abby will support this and looks forward to the day when its warriors will be able to attend this Gunslinger Program.â€
“House Steiner and the Lyran Commonwealth will also support this however holds the right to pull its funding if this program endangers its sovereignty.†Peter Steiner-Davion said ending the voting six yes votes, one abstain and one no. The Gunslinger Program was back to stay.
Eighth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
18th November 3079
“My fellow lords it has time for us to elect a new First Lord.†General Caradoc Trevena, the Star League’s Chief of Staff, said standing beside Commanding-General Archer Christifori. “With exception of our new members and of Warlord Minoru Kurita, as the reining First Lord, the possible leaders to be elected First Lord are. First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion of the Federated Suns, Archon Peter Steiner-Davion of the Lyran Commonwealth, Duke Kai Allard-Liao of the St Ives Compact, Protector Erik Martens-Calderon of the Taurian Concordat, Captain-General Jeremy Brett of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby, Captain-General Corrine Marik of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Governor of Terra Gavin Dow representing the Star League Protectorate. Please commence with the nominations.†He said naming them all in turn before retaking his seat.
“I nominate Peter Steiner-Davion for the position. During his previous term as First Lord he led the fight against the Clans, I believe he is more than worthy of the position again.†Kai Allard-Liao said naming the Lyran Archon who had been First Lord just six years before.
“I will second this nomination, the quicker the Clan threat is gone the better for us all.†Protector Erik Martens-Calderon said standing briefly before sitting. The chances of a Taurian ever being leader of the Star League was remote so no surprise he was trying to make changes in other ways.
“I accept this nomination†Peter said and with that his place was clear.
“I nominate Captain-General Jeremy Brett to be First Lord of the Star League.†Warlord Minoru Kurita said standing at the Combine’s table now acting as a leader not as First Lord.
After moments of silence Caradoc Trevena stood “Do we have a second nomination for Jeremy Brett? Without one his nomination will not stand.â€
“I will second this nomination.†Governor of Terra Gavin Dow said, the former ComStar Primus still happy to effect Inner Sphere politics.
“I will also accept this nomination.â€
“With two nominations voting may commence unless there is a third?†Caradoc Trevena said raising one more time. After almost a minute of silence Caradoc continued “unless there is further time required we can commence with voting now. Peter Steiner-Davion and Jeremy Brett both have two votes with the Draconis Combine, Star League Protectorate, Taurian Concordat and the St Ives Compact votes counted.â€
“I will vote for Peter Steiner-Davion, my brother has shown himself more than capable for the role and has shown his willingness to support for the Star League Defence Force.†Victor Steiner-Davion said raising and sitting again bringing the vote to three against two for the Lyran Archon.
“Although I would hate to give legitimacy to Jeremy Brett’s nation I will not allow the Lyran nation to be in command of the Star League for a second time. I vote for the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and Jeremy Brett.†Captain-General Corrine Marik said brining both equal at three votes each.
“This leaves the vote tied and the Star League Defence Force Commanding-General Archer Christifori has the tie-breaker.†Caradoc Trevena said raising, beside him Archer Christifori rose from his chair.
“In an effort to keep one nation gaining sway over this Council Chamber and becoming comfortable holding the First Lord title I will empower Duchy of Tamarind-Abby leader Captain-General Jeremy Brett with the First Lordship under one condition, that he understands the Star League Defence Forces will not become embroiled in a campaign against his former Free Worlds League allies.†He said glancing at the Captain-General, Jeremy Brett nodded, Archer also noticed Corrine Marik take note of the agreement before he turned back to the other leaders “I elevate Captain-General Jeremy Brett of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby to the post of First Lord.†He said finishing the voting and the day’s proceedings.
Eighth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
20h November 3079
As the Eighth Whitting Conference began its sixth day on Terra experts and defence analysts made informed the council of the situation on New Earth which had been depopulated by the Mopelia Attack and its after effects. Now more people on the planet worked for the SLDF than any other organisation and the economy was spiralling with the Lyran Commonwealth unable to stop it. The oldest Human colony outside Terra itself appeared to be heading for a slow death.
Following the presentation Commanding-General Archer Christifori rose from his chair “House Lords, as of today’s date the identity of the attackers on Mopellia Island are still unknown. The Star League Defence Force has been able to stem the spread of the disease and slow the death rate on the world however more and more people flee in terror of what happened and the uncertainty of whether or not the attackers will return. I would like to suggest because New Earth is heading for depopulation and no-one wants to work or live there it is turned over to SLDF control, already eighty-four percent of the people on planet either work for or are part of the Star League Defence Force.â€
“And what would the Star League do with yet another world?†Naomi Centrella said not moving from her position “my fellow Council Lords I may have no power on this council but allow my voice to be heard.†No-one rose to block the Capellan Chancellor. “So far the Star League Defence Force have gobbled up a dozen prime worlds where the Chaos March once stood. These worlds formerly belonged to the Capellans, Mariks and Davions but the Star League has taken them all, even the Mercenary worlds of Northwind and Outreach have agreed to abide by these protectorate laws. I ask why the Star League even needs territory? Is it not here to protect its members? Instead it appears to be building a power base that may even rival the Terran Hegemony’s power if left unchecked.â€
“Commanding-General you have been called out for an answer to the Star League’s intentions for the world of New Earth. How do you answer?†Newly elected First Lord Jeremy Brett asked Archer.
“We plan to build the command complex for the Fifth Battle Armour Corps, all others are at capacity and we want to build an HPG Hub on the world increasing communications between Star League Worlds and with the neighbouring states. Also in light of what happened to New Earth we believe a Centre for Disease Control Facility on this world would be fitting. At this facility we would study biological and chemical agents and figure out the best way to treat them as well as study the effects of nuclear and space borne radiation.â€
“And what will this cost the nations of the Star League as additional to the current amount we invest.†Captain-General Corrine Marik asked.
“Nothing more, the money collected in taxes from the twelve Protectorate worlds will be funnelled towards this. Terra alone should provide enough financial might for these projects. It will also promote more population growth on New Earth which at present is very necessary.â€
“Unless there are any objections to this move I will place this request onto Archon Peter Steiner-Davion as current House Lord in possession of this world.†All eyes turned on the Lyran leader.
“I have no quarrel with this plan, however this will have to be confirmed by the Noble Court and the Isle of Skye leadership.†Peter said confirming New Earth’s fate. Within two days it was confirmed that New Earth was the Star League’s newest world.
Eighth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
22nd November 3079
With the current Conference almost over there was only one final thing for the Star League member states to discuss. During the course of the Star League Conference a Clan Sea Fox vessel had sent the Star League Conference a message via HPG system asking the conference states as a whole for permission to move their massive ArcShips throughout the Inner Sphere and Periphery making trade with the states as they go. With permission for activities already given in the Former Federated Commonwealth states it was soon agreed by the Draconis Combine, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. Both the Capellan Confederation and the Taurian Concordat refused to accept these measures and warned the Sea Foxes any ship entering their space would be fire upon.
Shortly after this brief meeting the Council Members devolved the Eighth Whitting Conference and begin the long journeys back to their own realms.
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Nadir Point
Luthien, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
4th December 3079
Almost a year from when they disappeared from the Inner Sphere the Knights of St Cameron reappear at the Nadir point of the Luthien system offering their services to the Draconis Combine in a year rolling contract. The Regiment now boasts four combined arms regiments transported by four Collosus-class DropShips lacks any of the Clan technology it once fielded. Instead it is entirely outfitted with Star League ‘Royal’ grade technology a massive upgrade over even their well equipped status.
When asked where they were, why they left or How they got their technology the Regiment refuses to speak. The Draconis Combine cautiously accepts the Knights Contract proposal while the Lyran Commonwealth sends them a message informing the unit they will not be hired by the Lyran state in the future. The MRBC also forward a message to the informing them that their Dragoons rating and reliability ratings have been downgraded to Class B unit and a Questionable reliability because of their break of contract.
Expedition Team
Kuiper Belt, Sol System
Star League Protectorate
12th December 3079
After almost three weeks of searching the Kuiper Belt of the Sol system the crew of Dr David Lear’s DropShip are almost ready to give up Lear’s ‘pipe-dream’ and head back to Terra. “Doctor, the information you’ve been given is obviously wrong.†The Captain of the vessel said to Dr David Lear who stood looking out the windows.
“I wasn’t ‘given’ any data Captain, I found it.â€
“Perhaps that information was wrong?â€
“I struggle to believe that, the Star League records were extensive on the sub…†he was interrupted as the area of space directly opposite the ship’s port side exploded into fire.
“Report! What the hell was that?â€
“Unknown scanning†the helm officer said as another explosion detonated off to the ship’s starboard side.
“Where are they? Who is firing at us?â€
“Four contacts, one of them is massive directly aheadâ€
“How didn’t we detect them?â€
“ECM†David Lear said quietly as a third explosion rocked the vessel. “They have a huge ECM field set up around them†he said glancing at the monitors “the smaller three are Lola-class Destroyers, the larger one I don’t recognize.†He said as another explosion rocked the ship.
“How does this help us stop them not blowing us up?†The captain asked
“What IFF does this ship fly?â€
“What does that matter?â€
“It mightâ€
“A Terran civilian IFF, this ship isn’t military†the Captain said as another two explosions blew up either side of the ship “Helm evasive manoeuvres.â€
“No!†David shouted “pump our IFF up to military levels and switch to a Star League military frequency.â€
“Why the hell would we do that?â€
“Trust me†David said the ship’s captain did as he’d been asked Dr Lear may be speaking like a crazy man but he was very intelligent. Suddenly the firing ceased and the four ships moved into standby mode.
“What just happened?â€
“They don’t see us as hostile. Those shots were warning shots only, intended on keeping stray civilian craft from wandering in unannounced. Now if we’d been flying a military frequency from a Succession State I’d think we would not still be alive.â€
“How can the people on those ships not realize who and what we are?â€
“There are no people on them, those Ships are Caspers.†The last word turned every head on the bridge and turned the Captain’s blood cold. Caspers were a Star League invention an Automated Defence System that had been turned on the SLDF by the Usurper many Star League ships, men and women had died fighting the Caspers, they were thought completely gone.
“I think we need help.†The Captain said quietly looking at the window as the four vessels finally came into view the large ship was massive, with an huge open ’mouth’ at the front, while the smaller vessels did indeed look like Lola-class Destroyers.
Marik Royal Palace
Atreus City, Ionia
Atreus, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
14th December 3079
At the idyllic Marik Royal Palace in Atreus City on the world of the same name Captain-General Corrine Marik presents her five-year old son Joseph Marik to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. The ripples caused by this unveiling are seen throughout the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. No-one had even known Corrine Marik had been pregnant, the second child of Corrine Marik akin to his older sister Giselle Joseph’s father is unknown.
Interstellar Expeditions Team Site
Sixteen Kilometres South Shervanis Caliphate
Astrokaszy, Periphery
18th December 3079
An Interstellar Expeditions supported team had set up a small dig site on the world of Astrokaszy intent on finding out more information about the planets original settlers, the Crimson Reapers Brigade, and the various programs the Star League had tried to run on the planet.
They are attacked by the unit known as the Green Ghosts on the second day of the dig, the defence force, a company of Mechs with armour and infantry support, meet them but they are outgunned and outnumbered. During the battle expedition is saved by Silver's Sabres an almost unknown unrated Mercenary company, this unit turns the tide against the Green Ghosts and saves the Interstellar Expeditions team. The unit’s commander Samantha Silver agrees a defence contract with interstellar Expeditions despite the unit’s lack of MRBC ratings. Within a week of this agreement the defensive unit that IE had hired merges with the Silver’s Sabres and becomes their second company under the command of the Silver’s Sabres joint commander Vince Silver.
And so ends 3079 I hope you liked it
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I dug it. Especially the last bit about the Caspars. Wonder what they might be... ;)
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I dug it. Especially the last bit about the Caspars. Wonder what they might be... ;)
There are mentions of it throughout 3079 when Dr. Lear is mentioned in Chicago and a couple of other times. There's also something in Liberation of Terra Book 1 that begins to point to it but I'll leave that for later
3080
Small Arms Factory
New Dagda, Nova Cat’s Den
4th January 3080
While the system’s two defensive WarShips are conducting training manoeuvres and trials of possession for new pilots a lone Scout-class JumpShip jumps into the system at a pirate point and deposit’s a sole Leopard PA-class DropShip.
Burning towards the planet this ship launches two defensive aerospace fighters and two small craft. full of infantry troopers, who land less than three hundred metres from the planet’s small arms factory while the two aerospace fighters and the DropShip keep the local ground based Nova Cats busy.
The four platoons of infantry equipped with Jump packs and heavy weapons overpower the local Nova Cat defensive infantry troopers and steal away with several large bags of Clan manufactured Gauss Sub-machine guns, Mauser IIC Assault Rifles and Avenger Shotguns. Escaping back to their small craft, the DropShip and fighters both then rendezvous with the small craft in orbit re-dock together and escape back to their JumpShip which has fast charged it Jump Drive allowing the raiders to escape the system.
Angered by the attack without Trial or honour the Nova Cat Irregulars Cluster of Rho Provisional Galaxy supported by the recalled WarShip Swift Strike gave chase of the pirate force.
Clan Wolf Territory
Paxon, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
12th January 3080
With complete dominance on Paxon Clan Wolf had been able to quietly able to excavate a large Brian Cache they had discovered on the world. After nearly six years of hard work the Wolves were finally able to break into the facility. Inside they found several Royal BattleMechs still painted in their Star League Defence Force colours but carrying various Clans insignia alongside. With these BattleMechs were three designs not seen in a Clan force for centuries three of the original Clan OmniMechs developed by Clan Coyote. Two were of the Coyotl design a light OmniMech based on the ancient Mercury BattleMech of the Star League while the third was a Lupus Heavy OmniMech. The sixty ton design became the basis for the Mad Dog OmniMech seen in modern Toumans.
Quietly informing Clan Coyote of the find Clan Wolf immediately send on Coyotl off world bound for the Inner Sphere Occupation Zone while they prepare for the inevitable trials as the other Clans discover the find and lay claim to it.
Clan Sea Fox Trade Post
Territorial Waters, Kyeinnisan
Independent, Free Worlds League
20th January 3080
On the outskirts of Luck City on Kyeinnisan in the former Free Worlds League Clan Sea Fox BattleMechs and Battle Armour troops of the Fifty-first Strike Cluster were dying as the Opacus Venatori BattleMechs moved on their positions. The Sea Fox’s Territorial Waters Khanate only controlled eight percent of the lawless gamblers world and the Opacus Venatori had come directly at them, which is exactly what Captain Stacy Church of the Wolf’s Dragoons had counted on as her Wolf Spider Company revealed themselves.
“Widow to Berith your Endgame has arrived†she said on an open frequency she could see the massive Red-and-black Mech react to her comm. “Wolf’s Dragoons, engage!†Spying the back of a trailing Mercury light BattleMech and sent a particle cannon blast into the Mech, the light Mech would have struggled to take the hit to its forward armour the rear armour simply disintegrated under her fire. Falling to the ground there was little chance of a recovery. As Opacus Venatori BattleMechs turned to face the Black Widows the rest of the Black Widows company opened fire almost as one. A Mongoose II and a Lightray both crumbled under the fire taken to pieces by concentrated fire from the Wolf‘s Dragoons Mechs. A scream was heard over the radio channels Stacy Church recognized the inhuman voice and looked at the black-and-red Archangel near the rear of the formation being swarmed by five Sea Fox Elementals. “Black Widows Unity! One last push with our Clan brothers let us destroy these vermin.†She said over an open communication channel letting the Opacus Venatori know their end was near that the Wolf‘s Dragoons and the Clans had had their time with the Word of Blake and it was time for it to end. Both sides would have heard her and would have seen the Sea Fox Elementals swarm attack they would know that the bane of the clans Berith was in trouble possibly for the first time since the Opacus Venatori revealed themselves.
With fire hitting the Opacus Venatori from both sides two of the advanced Opacus Venatori OmniMech designs fell under heavy fire the Mechs were impressive and of unknown manufacture but they were till built from the same thing as every other Mech and could still be destroyed. Stacy changed her target to a heavily damaged and mangled King Crab which had just finished off a Sea Fox Mad Cat II, she knew the design well and knew only one served the Opacus Venatori, the one belonging to Kari Martia a Word of Blake Demi-Precentor who had once commanded the Broadsworld Legion a unit that had betrayed the Wolf’s Dragoons on Outreach during the great Riot which had destroyed much of Harlech and killed Jamie Wolf. Moving her Zeus closer Stacy fired her Particle cannon and autocannon at the big Mech targeting the left arm she was more than happy to see the limb fall limp as her fire shredded the myomer muscle the arm needed to function. She was even more happy to see the Mech’s ECM suite housed in the nearby torso go off-line caused by damage from Stacy‘s autocannon blast. Running forward she closed to point blank distance slamming her Mech into the bigger King Crab, instantly Stacy swung her Mech’s Enhanced Left arm into the King Crab’s ‘gut’ area doubling over the hunched design. With the PPC now at point blank Stacy fired again seeing the one hundred ton Blake Mech raise off the ground, her display’s showed the particle cannon had fused with the point blank firing however she didn’t care raising her autocannon right arm she fired a solid round of lead into the King Crab’s right shoulder pushing the heavier Blake Mech away with her damaged left arm. The King Crab staggered backwards straight into Stacy’s medium lasers and another autocannon blast, the lasers scorched the left side of the King Crab however it was the Autocannon that did the real damage soaring higher than previous fire the high explosive shells tore into the head caving in the armour before tearing the whole structure clear of the BattleMech its pilot and all. The remains of the head came to rest about three hundred metres behind the BattleMech smashing into the ground before rolling almost another one hundred metres there was no chance of pilot survival.
The King Crab fell away from Stacy’s Zeus just as there was another scream from Berith, Stacy glanced over and saw an Elemental breach the front window of his Archangel. Even from the hampered view of Stacy’s cockpit she could see there were several large shots from inside the cockpit as the Elemental fell from its perch on the Archangel’s face, the armoured trooper falling lifelessly to the ground beside the Archangel‘s foot. Moments later another replaced it, there were several more shots from within the cockpit however this time the Elemental trooper fired its short range missile launcher almost at point blank range no doubt killing the trooper but also blowing away almost all the rest of the Archangel’s head armour, amazingly the whole cockpit roof came flying off showing Berith still alive hunched over in the cockpit. The third Elemental did not fail where the others had and swung his battle claw at the pilot the massive titanium claw connected with the left side of Berith’s head ripping his scalp open spraying blood everywhere, amazingly the pilot amazingly appeared still conscious as a second swing threw the body of Berith the twelve-and-a half metres to the ground. The impact slammed crushed his body as the Elemental jumped clear of the OmniMech which finally fell to the ground behind its dead pilot.
Looking around the Captain Stacy Church could not see a single Opacus Venatori BattleMech active all burning at either a the Black Widows feet or at those of the Sea Fox warriors. Only six of her own Mechs appeared active and maybe a trinary of Sea Fox units were active but the Opacus Venatori were dead, finally dead perhaps now the Word of Blake menace was finally gone. The Wolf’s Dragoons and the Wolf Spider Battalion had been avenged, the Clan‘s contract with the Dragoons was over. “Black Widows call in†she ordered for a final time in the campaign.
“Unity!†The survivors called in as one, she noticed several of the Sea Fox warriors had joined them in the call this was their victory as well but it was all the sweeter for Stacy her command made famous by the great Black Widow, Natasha Kerensky, had proven its worth and been victorious against a foe well worth of being called the Dragoons rival. The Wolf Spider would stay on planet for a few days but soon they would head home to Outreach, victorious.
Raider Landing Zone
Orkney, Taurian Concordat
22nd January 3080
After chasing the pirate raider group from New Dagda through a series of empty systems following radiation spikes and garbage left behind them. The Nova Cat Irregulars Cluster enters the Taurian Concordat system of Orkney right at the edge of the Periphery nation.
On the ground they detect the lone Leopard PA-class DropShip and choose to deal with it in the best way suited for raiders. With the Swift Strike in low orbit over the Leopard’s position ready to lay down capital weapons fire if required the Nova Cats landed all around the landing site and moved in. Unfortunately for the local Taurian militia commander he was dealing with the raiders at the time of the landing.
Completely cut off from their base and the rest of the militia four of the Taurian Mechs were destroyed in the first salvo which also wiped out a raider jump platoon. Unwilling to be captured the Leopard attempted a take off unaware of the Swift Strike’s presence, from orbit the Swift Strike’s naval autocannon and naval class lasers cut through the atmosphere engulfing the DropShip in fire before it was one hundred metres from the ground.
The remaining pirate infantry and the remains of the Taurian force were subsequently wiped out by the remaining Nova Cat ground forces before the Clansmen retreated off world before the Taurians could react. When the rest of the Taurian militia force arrived at the sight of the battle they found the remains of a battle which the militia’s deputy commander immediately blamed on a Davion raid that his commander had thwarted.
Titan Shipyards
Terra System, Star League Protectorate
23rd January 3080
The Titan shipyards bring the SLS Wild Scream online for the Star League Defence Force. This vessel an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser dating back to the first Star League and is re-named after the first Mech champion of the original Gunslinger programme. Following an upgrade program the SLS Wild Scream is no-longer a standard Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser instead it is classed as a Patriot-class Heavy Cruiser named for the same refit program the Nova Cats have begun with their own Aegis-class vessels.
The SLS Wild Scream is not due to enter SLDF service until 3083 so the Star League Admiralty keep the vessel’s existence a secret from outside eyes intent on making the Star League’s Navy a force to be reckoned with. In an effort to increase security in Terra's Kuiper Belt following Dr. Lear's recent discovery the Wild Scream's shakedown cruise will take it directly past the newly found research post.
Castle Randis
Hope, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
25th January 3080
Trouble erupts on Hope within the Nova Cat’s Den as the two off planet Brotherhood Clusters raised on Randis return to the planet abandoning their posts with Delta and Rho Galaxies two of the Clusters abandoning the Nouveaux Paris Colony in the Deep Periphery. At the same time as the two Cluster’s arrival the Third Brotherhood Cluster of Zeta Galaxy attacks the Garrison force on the planet, the Ninety-ninth Battle Cluster of Upsilon Galaxy.
As the Third Brotherhood and the Ninety-ninth battle on the planet the First and Second Brotherhood Cluster’s hot-drop on top of Castle Randis the mountain top stronghold of the former Brotherhood of Randis. There they are joined by Sister Knight Amy Frews who declares herself the new Grand Knight of Randis. Star Colonel Lucas Beckett former commander of the First Brotherhood Cluster is seen fighting with the Ninety-ninth Battle Cluster before his Kingfisher is destroyed in heavy fighting against a lance of previously unseen HawkWolf BattleMechs, these locally designed Mechs had been only on designers boards when the Nova Cats had arrived but all four were now fully operational combat capable designs built under the Nova Cats noses.
The remains of the Third Brotherhood Cluster and both fresh First and Second Clusters maul the Ninety-ninth Battle Cluster for three days as it fights a running battle surprisingly aided by the native population against the Brotherhood forces. After three days however the Cluster is no more than a shell when the three Brotherhood units surround and destroy the Nova Cat unit. The three days bought by the Ninety-ninth’s survival however bought Nova Cat loyalists enough time to send a message to New Barcella requesting reinforcements against the new Brotherhood.
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Brotherhood Territory
Hope, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
8th February 3080
Barely a week passed between the rebirth of the Brotherhood of Randis and the Nova Cat’s response. During this week the various Galaxy Commanders bid for their right to join Khan Canin Rosse’s Watch Cluster in assaulting Hope. After a week of bidding Galaxy Commander Sophie Rosse and Upsilon Galaxy were successful with a bid of three Clusters taken from her five remaining units it was poetic that the Galaxy that had been wronged would join their Khan.
On the morning of the eighth the WarShips Severn Leroux, Blood Oath and Vision Quest all entered the Hope system securing the Jump points within minutes. With the Clan flagship and two Heavy Cruisers in the system the Brotherhood’s nearly exclusive ground forces had no chance of countering them.
Burning to the planet the Watch Cluster landed on and around Castle Randis while Upsilon Galaxy landed in and around the capital. “Watch Leader to all units. Report status.†Canin ordered as his Dragon Cat moved slowly through the almost deserted Castle which had obviously been on fire very recently.
“My Khan, we are encountering no resistance in the Castle what-so-ever.†Star Commander Paul said he commanded the Khan’s Elemental Star attached directly to his Trinary.
“Justice One, we are under heavy fire within the capital, count at least two Cluster of troops including armed industrial designs and previously unseen BattleMech designs.†Galaxy Commander Sophie Rosse reported from her position, it appeared her Galaxy was taking the brunt of the damage.
“Watch Lead, Justice One, we are on our way. Hold them you are the anvil we are the hammer.†Canin said switching to his unit’s command frequency “Watch Leader to Watch Cluster, abandon the castle. Upsilon is under attack, change positions cut down all Brotherhood Mechs no quarter no chance.†He ordered turning his Dragon Cat out of the facility charging down the hill towards the city, ahead he could see plenty of fighting.
Deep within the City’s bounds Galaxy Commander Sophie Rosse gritted her teeth as her Dire Wolf Assault OmniMech took some armour damage. Her one hundred ton monster was rare in the Nova Cat Touman, the Nova Cats unable to secure full manufacturing rights from Clan Wolf, and the configuration she preferred was probably unique. Possibly the most expensive variant of the design, a variation of the Alternate C weapons load, it carried a pair of the largest Heavy Assault Gauss Rifles one taking up each arm, four Extended-Range Medium Lasers split between the two torso areas and a nine-tube Advanced Tactical Missile Launcher over the shoulder.
Turning on the enemy Mech she saw it was a forty-five ton Shadow Cat OmniMech, a popular medium OmniMech within the Nova Cat Touman, Sophie almost snarled at the design a Clan OmniMech wearing Nova Cat colours and she was firing on it. The Shadow Cat tried to run but Sophie was methodical launching a full attack on the Mech firing both her HAG Rifles scoring hits across the design. The medium design lost more than two tons of armour in less than ten seconds, forcing the Mech out of control, the Mech staggered and fell smashing into the ground the pilot unable to counter Sophie‘s attack. Stalking up to the downed OmniMech Sophie fired all four Medium lasers burning through the torso armour puncturing the engine shielding forcing the Mech into shutdown and forcing the pilot to eject.
Across the city a pair of Nova Cat Pack Hunters were moving through the city searching for targets as they led their Star into a Brotherhood stronghold. Ahead they saw a single BattleMech painted in browns and gold fighting against two other Mechs as they approached a lower-caste crèche facility. As they closed the Mech lifted its left arm and fired a tightly packed flight of missiles past them, the pilots could tell the Mech had missed intentionally and instead of closing further began to pick at it with their over shoulder particle cannons. Instead of engaging them the Mech instead turned and charged the Brotherhood Mechs firing its autocannon and inferno packing short range missiles as it went downing three Mechs in head induced shutdowns followed by precision Autocannon blasts to the head executing each of the downed warriors without mercy. Knowing they could not hope to take down a proficient fighter alone they did something almost alien to other Clans but exactly what a scout needed to do they called in the enemy Mech’s position and moved to the next target knowing that returning Hope to Nova Cat control was more important in the long run than short term honour.
As Khan Canin Rosse approached the location of the mysterious fighting BattleMech reported by his scouts he could see the battered Mech still standing guard over the crèche. “This is Khan Canin Rosse to unidentified BattleMech, I have come to retake this planet for Clan Nova Cat. If it is your choice to oppose me then your skill affords you a Circle of Equals defeat me and you will be allowed to live.†he announced over an open communication frequency everyone had heard his challenge.
“This is Star Colonel Lucas Beckett, I defend this world in the name of the people of Hope. If you threaten the people of this world then you threaten me.†A reply came a few moments later Canin was stunned of all the people he’d expected to fight today he’d found the one person he wanted to see.
“What is the meaning of this Lucas?†Canin asked dropping both the man’s former rank and Bloodname “why turn against Clan Nova Cat and then against your own people?â€
“I have turned against no-one my Khan, I protect the people of Hope native and Nova Cat-born, I do not know your intentions so I stand against you. If you mean the people of this world harm then I will stand in your way.â€
“How can this have happened? How can your people have turned against the Nova Cat way?â€
“I do not know, I was following a vision when I returned here several months ago. My people were on Nouveaux Paris, they have betrayed me as well as you.†Canin’s head was swirling he’d known of the Oathmaster’s authorisation for Lucas Beckett to return to Hope to follow a vision but following the attempted coup on the world Canin had thought that the Star Colonel’s ‘vision’ had been a ploy. Now he saw a warrior proud of his people and his Clan.
“I do not mean you ill Lucas Beckett, nor the population of this world, will you join me in eradicating the remains of these Dezgra?â€
“It would be an honour as long as this crèche is protected.†Lucas Beckett said raising both of his Mech’s arms wide showing his Mech as a barrier against all fire.
“It shall be, come now we have work to do.†Canin said turning his back on Lucas heading towards more enemy signals, if Beckett wanted to betray him he would shoot the Khan in the back and Canin knew his Keshik would destroy him but also that he had to show he trusted Becket with his back. There was no fire against the Khan’s Mech only the strange Mech following the Dragon Cat.
Over the course of the next three hours Canin, Lucas and the elements of Upsilon Galaxy re-secured Hope one city at a time destroying nearly three Clusters of Brotherhood troops on planet. Among these rebel facilities the Nova Cats discovered nearly three companies worth of a BattleMech named the HawkWolf. From Lucas Beckett’s knowledge the Mech was designed locally by the Brotherhood of Randis but had never reached production, now the Nova Cats could see the people of Hope had followed their own endeavours and created the Mech themselves no doubt using Nova Cat technology and resources to finish the work.
During the course of the fighting the Khan learned that Lucas Beckett’s Mech was a Rampage 2G. This Mech designed by and for the Rim Worlds Republic had been sold to one of the Periphery nations before the fall of the Star League to Amaris. The Mech was old even by standards of the Rampage design one of the first to be produced, this particular model had been found by the Brotherhood of Randis years before the arrival of Clan Nova Cat and been stored at a secret location only the Grand Knight knew of. When Lucas’ OmniMech had been destroyed he sought out the old cache and chose to take the Rampage to war once more. How the more advanced Clan weaponry used by the majority of his opponents had not overwhelmed the Mech was a testament to Lucas Beckett’s skill.
With the destruction of the last renegade Brotherhood Mechs the Nova Cats were able to piece together, from figures gathered of the units TO&E and from records of their arrival that a Trinary of Mechs was missing along with a single Union C-class DropShip. None had disappeared during the fighting and the WarShips reported no out going traffic from the system, so they must have left before the arrival of the Nova Cat reinforcement. From information provided by Lucas Beckett it became clear that Amy Frews had been a leading figure in the uprising and that she was still missing from the dead Brotherhood units, it appeared that at least some of the Brotherhood would live on at least until the Nova Cats found them. Following the battle it was also confirmed that the Justice Keshik had been destroyed in the fighting along with Galaxy Commander Sophie Rosse, robbing Upsilon Galaxy of its commander, however that would be a fight for another day.
Trials of Possession
Paxon, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
12th February 3080
Unhappy with the Wolf Clan’s decision to exclude them from the Brian Cache find Clans Star Adder, Steel Viper and Fire Mandrill all decide to assault the planet brining with them ground and naval forces. Unfortunately for them all three Clans arrive at the same time. In a confusing melee all three Clans WarShip forces engage each other at the Nadir point of the system as the ground forces run towards the planet charging straight into a Clan Wolf Naval Blockade.
At the Nadir point the Goliath Scorpion WarShip Bernlad, a Congress-class Frigate, found themselves engaged by the Perth, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser in the service of Clan Star Adder. While the Andromeda, a Volga-class Transport, joined their Ground troops of Rho Galaxy running towards the planet. The Bernlad had little chance against the heavier armed and better supported Perth and was quickly dispatched.
The Steel Viper WarShip Viper’s Legacy, another Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, found itself challenged by the second Star Adder WarShip the Harvest, a Lola III-class Destroyer. The two classic Star League designs engaged in a traditional snipers dual engaging each other at long range which benefited the Viper’s Legacy over the Harvest. By the time the inexperienced Lola crew recognized their mistake the Harvest was far too badly damaged to fight further and the crew abandoned ship only to be taken as bondsmen by Clan Star Adder. The heavily battered Harvest drifted into Paxon’s star exploding like a massive fusion bomb.
The two remaining damaged Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruisers, one each from both Clan Steel Viper and Clan Star Adder, agreed that they would not fight further instead allow the ground battle to decide their position in the system. This also effectively ruled both out of any further participation in the system’s Trials.
Three days later in orbit of Paxon itself the Goliath Scorpions arrived to meet the Provider, a Volga-class Transport and the Night Warrior, a Carrack-class Transport, the only two Clan Wolf vessels in the system. The Andromeda’s crew challenged both WarShips for battle at the same time buying the Goliath Scorpion ground troops safe passage to the ground. The Wolf WarShips fought strategically the heavier armed and armoured Provider taking the brunt of her sister ship’s attention while the Night Warrior moved behind the Goliath Scorpion vessel. Unable to split fire between two vessels and too slow to move clear the Andromeda was almost completely helpless as Wolf Elemental Warriors wearing Aerie Zero-G Power Armour Suits crossed the distance between the two vessels and boarded the vessel. Within a minute the fifty Elementals deployed had secured every deck and the three hundred crew and passengers of the Andromeda were either captured or dead providing Clan Wolf with another much needed Transport WarShip. Unfortunately the damage done to both Volga-class WarShips was enough to keep them away from the incoming Steel Viper and Star Adder Galaxies while the Night Warrior was ordered to stay out of the fight.
As the Goliath Scorpion, Steel Viper and Star Adder ground forces landed on the planet at various landing spots across the world the Clan Wolf Galaxy Commander on planet Sandra Vickers announced that her Werewolves, Kappa Galaxy, would be happy to meet their challenges as would Galaxy Commander Jered Steele of Clan Coyote’s Rho Galaxy who had just taken custody of twenty-five percent of the planet and half of the Brain Cache. The presence of the Coyote’s stalled the declaration of initial Trials beyond the first door throwing the door open for Clan Coyote forces to launch their own campaign challenging Clan Goliath Scorpion to a series of Trials calculating in the destruction of the Tenth Scorpion Dragoons Cluster and the Goliath Scorpion’s ejection from the planet.
Seeing the Goliath Scorpion challenge fall to the Coyotes the two remaining Clans immediately launched trials against the Wolves and the Coyotes. Clan Steel Viper happy to beat the Coyotes instead of the Wolves immediately seized five percent of the Coyote territory destroying the remains of the Four hundred-and-second Solahma Cluster forcing other Coyote units to take in survivors. The remaining three Coyote Clusters counter-attacked however and forced the Steel Vipers back to their landing zones. A third trial saw the Steel Vipers ejected from the planet as the Thirty-third Phalanx Cluster lost their trial forcing their troops to abandon the planet rejoining their WarShip.
With Clan Coyote showing they were worthy of the trust Clan Wolf had placed with them the Werewolves launched an all out Trial against the warriors of Clan Star Adder’s Tau Galaxy more than proving their strength and prowess but at a heavy cost. The Wolf troops uncontrollable anger cost the lives of almost every warrior of the 101st Battle Cluster however the Wolves cared little as they had successfully defended their claim to the system.
Hell’s Horses Assault
Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
22nd February 3080
Clan Hell’s Horses’ Beta Galaxy, the Apocalypse, arrived in the Inner Sphere transported by the WarShip Steel Shield, a Potemkin-class Troop Transport, dropping onto Maxis Planet, Trell I and Derf taking all three planets in rapid fire assaults. These assaults threaten the stability of the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone threatening to cut off the Lyran Periphery part of the Occupation Zone and the Inner Sphere. At approximately the same time the Red Knight, Gold Knight, two Lola III-class Destroyer, and the Predator, an Essex-class Destroyer, all entered the Dark Nebula driving Jade Falcon forces from the area claiming it for Clan Hell’s Horses.
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Kelswa Family Residence
Glasgow, Skye
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
4th March 3080
A bag-piper played as Colonel Alexander Carlyle walked into the Royal Residence of the Kelswa family. Although not used to being played into a residence he did see the need for the symbolic playing showing Skye’s routes to Scotland on Terra. He was guided through the corridors to an official reception nature with Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner sitting on what could only be described as a throne chair. Alex couldn’t help but wonder what the Steiner family on Tharkad would think of the display however for now he had to put on his best behaviour bowing slightly.
“Welcome to Skye Baron von Glengarry, I hope your trip was pleasant?†He greeted using Alex’s official House title, that that linked the Gray Death to the Lyran Commonwealth.
“It was sire thank you for the invitation.â€
“Colonel, I will get straight to the point. Your unit’s history with the Skye region has been troubled†he began trust the Duke to bring up the Skye rebellions and the Gray Death Legion’s stand against them “however I’m sure now that the Lyran Archon has seen that Skye’s desire for independence should be embraced and not fought that your unit will work with us.â€
“Of course sire, we are mercenary warriors unless our home is threatened we will work for those who pay.â€
“Ah yes of course loyalty to the C-Bill, I can respect that even if I disagree with it. Tell me Colonel how would you like for your unit to be working for the nation that has housed if for so many years?â€
“We are of course happy to work for House Steiner.â€
“Of course.†The Duke said with a tight smile Alex knew he’d meant House Kelswa and Skye not Tharkad. “Well House Kelswa is able to hire forces to augment its own and House Steiner’s and I would like to hire the Gray Death Legion as a whole and individual units for at the minimum a year.â€
“I am interested.†Alex said the contract with the Star League was over of course his unit would be willing to look for another contract, the Duke knew that.
“Good, at first it would be individual Battalions to train with our new training Battalions, including our newest the Gladius Battalion however I’d be looking at using the Gray Death Legion for larger operations in the near future.â€
“I would be interested Cadre Duty is dull but the promise of combat is always a nice prospect.â€
“Good, I will ensure contract details reach your desk on Glengarry.â€
“And I will give them due attention.â€
“Thank you for your time Colonelâ€
“Of course Sire.†Alex said bowing again before leaving tying the Gray Death Legion to Skye would ensure that their homes were safe even if Alex’s loyalty was to Tharkad overall.
Wolf Clan Hall
Tamar City, Tamar
Wolf Occupation Zone
10th March 3080
Unhappy with the years of peace and with Katrina Wolf’s position on Tamar Star Colonel Ivan Kerensky a member of Khan Vlad Ward’s inner circle entered the Wolf Clan Hall on Tamar and saw the Wolf Khan standing near a table ahead with three other warriors and saKhan Marialle Radick. “Planning an operation?†He asked his Khan looking directly at him not caring who he had interrupted.
“Studying our enemy’s movements, Clan Jade Falcon’s Occupation Zone is weakened by the Hell’s Horse assaults. We are preparing a series of Trials.â€
“Why bother with Periphery worlds? If the Jade Falcons and Horses want to fight over scraps and backwards worlds why do we care? Khan Ward we returned to the Inner Sphere to conqueror Terra yet it is nearly fifteen years since the end of the Tukayyid Truce brokered by Ulric and yet we are no closer to our goal. Instead we fight with the other Clans over the worlds we conquered thirty years ago. I ask why?â€
“We are preparing our people, when the time is right the Wolf will strike.â€
“Will it…†It was not a question though a statement of intent.
“That sounded like a challenge.â€
“It was, you are either unwilling or unable to lead us, someone who is willing to take the fight to the Inner Sphere should. Khan Ward I challenge your position to lead Clan Wolf. Choose your time and place to defend yourself.â€
“The challenge will be un-augmented, the time and place will be right here right now in front of the witnesses present.†Vlad said shrugging off his fur lined jacket to reveal a light t-shirt with the Wolf Insignia on it.
“You may have time to prepare.â€
“I need none to defeat a whelp like you Ivan unless you wish to take back your challenge Quineg?â€
“Neg.†He said dropping into a combat stance, Vlad began to move in a circle and Ivan mirrored him, the two began to spar testing each others defences a punch, a kick, another punch. Neither seeing an opening against the other. Although both men were well into their fifty’s to sixties they moved like men half their age as they sparred attacked and dodged. This could not continue however and after a few minutes of fighting Ivan had Vlad on the ground and was repeatedly punching the Khan in the face and upper chest. Vlad attempted to counter with his legs however Ivan grabbed his Vlad’s left leg and twisted the ankle to an awkward position instantly breaking the bone there. Vlad Ward screamed in pain and anger and attempted to pull Ivan to the ground with him but it his left ankle little more than a stump he had no way to stop the Star Colonel’s movements or his strikes. As more and more strikes flew in Vlad’s ribs were nearly all broken before Ivan came face to face with his Khan “And now you die.â€
“As long as you die with me†Vlad said grabbing Ivan around the neck snapping it just before Vlad passed out and within moments died from internal injuries. Behind Marielle Radick smiled she could not have planned it better, both her chief opponents to ruler ship of the Wolves was dead.
“With the Khan dead I proclaim myself Khan until a Grand Melee can be called to determine Vlad’s successor. And I order all of these Trials to be initiated; we are to bring Clan Wolf back to the fore of Clan politics.†She said she knew if Clan Wolf became embroiled in a war then there would be no Trials for some time and she would remain in command.
“Neg, Marielle Radick, the other Clans can wait a few more days. We will have a melee and our new Khan by right of combat not politics will choose our direction.†Loremaster Karen Carns said from a chair at the the back of the room, Marielle had not even noticed her enter the room, and she knew that Karen Carns could overrule anything Marielle wanted to do, but there was one thing that Marielle knew she would not.
“Then there is one thing I will order.†Marielle said “something that a saKhan can order as much as any Khan. It is my order that Katrina Wolf will leave this world immediately she is released from her bondsman status as Khan Ward is dead and is to be assigned to Omega Galaxy at the first available opportunity.†She said glancing over at Katrina Wolf in the corner she’d been staying out of the Trials and had been able to remain silent following Vlad’s death. She’d been a bondsman for far too long and now her Inner Sphere stench could be released from Tamar and the Wolf Command.
“Seyla†Karen Carns said in agreement Katrina Wolf was on her way to War.
Clan Jade Falcon Border
Melissa Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
15th March 3080
Not knowing of Clan Wolf’s internal problems Clan Jade Falcon had their own concerns, seeing the possibility of their Occupation Zone being cut in half by the Hell’s Horses but unwilling to fight over periphery scraps with another Clan instead they turned their attention on the Lyran Commonwealth’s salient into their territory Beta VII, Hot Springs, Roadside, Blackjack and Goat’s Path. If the Jade Falcons could take these worlds and hold them their Occupation Zone would be secure and the Lyran Commonwealth world of Melissa would be under even more pressure.
Launching on early March 15th eight Clusters from Delta and Gamma Galaxy supported by several WarShips launched an attack on their targeted worlds. First to fall was Beta VII the last world to be ‘liberated’ by the Lyran Commonwealth on the planet was the Lyran’s Eleventh Arcturan Guards RCT a veteran unit of previous Clan incursions. The First Falcon Hussars of Delta Galaxy supported by the newly formed Fourth Falcon Hussars of Gamma Galaxy landed on the world. The Lyran commander unwilling to engage in a honourable trial but also unwilling to abandon his fortified positions was pinned in position by the Falcons before being killed in a Headhunter attack by Jade Falcon Elementals and ProtoMechs. This forced the Eleventh Arcturan into a general retreat unsure if their lines were secure from Elemental assaults.
On Hot Springs the Second Hussars found the Mobile Fire Regiment waiting for them. The unit had been decimated sixteen years before fighting the Draconis Combine on Accrington and did not plan to end in the same way twice. Unfortunately for the Mobile Fire the Jade Falcons refused to see them as honourable warriors instead treating them like Dezgra. Informed from Star Colonel Martin Hazen that a WarShip would shoot down any and all DropShips the Mobile Fire were forced to fight a series of battles against the Jade Falcons which whittled down their forces to less than a combat Battalion. As no Mobile Fire personnel escaped it is thought they were destroyed.
Ignoring the Star League garrison force on Roadside the next Jade Falcon assaults appeared on the 16th striking Blackjack and Goat’s Path with the Third Hussars Cluster and the Second Velites Cluster of Delta Galaxy. On Blackjack the Second Biron’s Legion Mercenary Regiment met the Third Hussars. Unlike the Second Hussars Star Colonel Drake was happy to see the mercenary force fight an honourable battle. Fighting a Battalion vs. Double Trinary battle on open plains the Second Biron lost the battle and was forced off planet.
Following these attacks on the Seventeenth taking advantage of recent Clan Wolf attacks the Second Falcon Strike Cluster of the Jade Falcons Gamma Galaxy launched an attack on Kooken’s Pleasure Pit. On the planet they found the Storm’s Metal Thunder Mercenary Regiment with their Assault Mechs. The fast Medium and Light Mechs of the Falcon Strike Cluster got close to the assault designs depositing three full stars worth of Elementals amongst the Storm’s Metal Thunder before retreating allowing their aerospace forces to engage in mass bombing runs against the Metal Thunder flanks. As a final charge the mercenary force broke and began to splinter but it was too late the unit was killed to the man.
Finally on Goat’s Path the Jade Falcon Guard Cluster under command of Star Colonel Horse landed and found themselves challenged by elements of the Fourth Donegal Guards RCT who claimed they had already determined what forces from their number would defend the world and it was up to the Jade Falcon Guard to match them. After a brief bidding process between the Clan forces they found a unit capable of fighting the Jade Falcons and went to work. Star Colonel Horse noticed the Lyran force was playing a waiting game almost as though they were expecting reinforcements. In truth they had received word that the LCS Barcelona, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, was on its way to support them. Unfortunately for the Lyrans the Jade Aerie, a Jade Falcon Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser arrived first, the arrival of the Jade Falcon vessel was enough for the Lyran unit to retreat from the battle.
Command Briefing
Wolf Clan Hall, Tamar
Wolf Occupation Zone
14th March 3080
“My fellow Wolves, it is time that we embraced our desires, we returned to the Inner Sphere to save Terra and become the ilClan and as of today we begin that push once more.†New Wolf Khan Nathan Fetladral said looking at the assembled warriors. He was twenty-eight years old had blue eyes and blonde hair a rarity within the Fetladral Bloodhouse but looks mattered little in Wolf Society. During his initial Trial of Position he had defeated three opponents for the rank of Star Captain. Last year he’d become a Star Colonel fighting Clan Star Adder in the Homeworlds then this year he had become a Galaxy Commander of Theta Galaxy “I have spoken with our new saKhan Jennifer Winson and we agree, the footholds we have already made into the Jade Falcon space has to be built on and the Lyran Commonwealth has to be our goal.â€
“As of this day and this order, Clan Wolf is on the hunt†Jennifer Winson said stepping forward like her Khan Jennifer Winson was young only twenty-two years old she’d been a Star Colonel before becoming saKhan. “As a result Trials will be initiated with Jabuka, Fort Loudon, Meacham and Kelenfold of the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone. Trials will also be initiated for Toumans, Rasalgethi, Borghese and Blue Diamond of the Lyran Commonwealth assuming initial strikes go to plan.â€
“All of these worlds are within our grasp our warriors are to make this ring true.†Nathan Fetladral said looking at each of the stunned Star Colonels, none had expected the Wolves to target so many worlds.
The Wolves struck on the 17th March with the Fifty-third Wolf Champions Cluster striking against the Eighth Talon Cluster on Jabuka capturing the world in a fast trial. At the same time an airborne assault was launched on Fort Loudon as the Ninth Wolf Strike Cluster, which had nearly two full aerospace Trinaries, attacked the Third Falcon Talon Cluster’s third Trinary defeating them in a fast Trial.
Ghost Bear Border
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
18th March 3080
Hearing of Clan Wolf’s new Khan and his new plan the Rasalhague Dominion’s Ghost Bear warriors decided to ensure that the Wolves did not get any ideas into their heads about attacking Ghost Bear space. The Ghost Bear’s Eighteenth Battle Cluster of Rho Galaxy attacked Meacham, one of the Jade Falcon worlds specifically targeted in these new attacks. Throwing the first and second trinaries of the Jade Falcon’s Third Talon Cluster off the world the Ghost Bears reinforced their position by deploying the Ursla Major, a Nightlord-class Battleship, to support their ground troops and move materials in. As a result of these moves the Wolf Khan made a point to take Meacham off the strike list.
Wolf Border
Arcturus Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
19th March 3080
With two success achieved and one world off the target list the Wolves targeted Kelenfold, the closest Jade Falcon world to Terra. Based there was Third Falcon Lancers Cluster of Alpha Galaxy there the unit commander informed the Wolf Commander of the Third Wolf Assault Cluster that they would stand until the death against all invaders. In an eighteen hour long trial the Third Falcon Lancers were completely destroyed by Clan Wolf’s invasion force however the Wolf Cluster was decimated by the damage done.
At the same time Wolf units launched strikes at Toumans and Rasalgethi capturing both in fast trials taking the mix of Lyran and Mercenary defenders by surprise. The presence of Wolf Naval forces supporting their ground forces persuaded the defenders not to attempt anything foolhardy. The Wolves allow the defeated ground forces to retreat from the planet unhindered content with retaining control of both worlds.
Unnamed Star System
Matsuida Prefecture
Draconis Combine
25th March 3080
Just outside the gravity well of an unnamed and uncharted star system in the Matsuida Prefecture of the Draconis Combine a single unmarked Monolith-class JumpShip appeared in the blink of an eye dispatching eight identical unmarked DropShips. These ships quickly moved into two groups of four as the Monolith jumped clear of the system leaving the DropShips alone.
Sixteen hours later the DropShips began to approach an area of activity. Splitting towards separate targets the DropShips moved quickly towards two partially reactivated WarShips. As they closed on these vessels weapons began lighting up the sky as the DropShips were detected. Defending Aerospace fighters joint the fray however it was too late to stop four DropShips deploying their payloads of Battle Armour onto one of the vessels. As a battle raged in space around the vessel, with DropShips falling quickly to the combined defenders firepower onboard the vessel the elite battle armour took out the tech crew defending the vessel blasting clear of its scaffolding cocoon, then targeting the second WarShip with a full barrage from its forward weapons destroying any chance of the defenders recovering the vessel. One of the remaining DropShips slammed into the derelict WarShip further damaging it beyond repair.
Moments later the captured vessel jumped clear of the region and House Davion had recovered part of its heritage a Robinson Block I-class Transport. The DMI troopers who had taken part had taken heavy losses but they’d been successful.
Clan Trials
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
27th March 3080
After a month of Trials and Circles of Equals Star Colonel Lucas Beckett, former Brotherhood of Randis Leader and Brotherhood Cluster commander, is confirmed as commander of Upsilon Galaxy beating several other warriors. Many within Clan Nova Cat do not trust him but his prowess in his modified Rampage BattleMech is almost completely unequalled.
Clan Jade Falcon Border
Melissa Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
30th March 3080
In a combined effort including units from the Lyran Commonwealth, various Mercenary commands, three Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Clusters with two WarShips and two Star League Defence Force Regiments launch a counter attack against the Jade Falcon forces. Fighting over four worlds they recapture Adelaide, Medellin, Machida and Zhongshan almost completely eliminating the Jade Falcon’s inroads into the Theatre and rescuing Melissa’s trade routes. In an additional attack Clan Wolf (in-Exile) liberates A Place from the Falcons.
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I am attempting to read all the way through this (currently just finishing page 7) and I just wanted to comment that I love this format. I've read your bulletted format all the way through a few times and loved it but this has so much more detail its quite amazing, you really take time with every year and try to develop every faction and as a reader I appreciate it!
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Yeah these are great.
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Free Skye!
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Bondcord Skye To Clan Fennec
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I am attempting to read all the way through this (currently just finishing page 7) and I just wanted to comment that I love this format. I've read your bulletted format all the way through a few times and loved it but this has so much more detail its quite amazing, you really take time with every year and try to develop every faction and as a reader I appreciate it!
Glad you are enjoying, I think I've over done some parts but most works
Yeah these are great.
More coming...
SLS Wild Scream
Pirate Point, Sol System
Star League Protectorate
9th April 3080
In an empty piece of space just outside the orbit of Mercury in the Sol system the SLS Wild Scream sat and waited. Although the newly refitted Patriot-class vessel was still officially on a shakedown cruise it had been called on to answer the call and assist in this delicate mission. The Ship's Captain, Garret Cooper, had been ordered to rendezvous with a SLDF Diplomatic Shuttle and wait at these coordinates until further notice the Wild Scream had sat here in dead space well off regular routes to the Nadir point for eighteen hours now and it was becoming slightly tiresome. "Anything from Terra?"
"Negative sir, we are still fully black on communications as per orders, as far as they are concerned we don't exist." His communications specialist reported Garret was half tempted to go below decks and personally question the SLDF Diplomat in guest quarters about this waiting game.
"Sir, radiation spike, we have an incoming vessel."
"Strange place to be coming in, have gun crews stand by."
"Belay that Captain" Star League Council Representative Mason McRae said floating into the Wild Screams Command Centre.
"Mr McRae, you do not issue orders on my ship." The Commander said pleased to notice his crew continuing to make preparations.
"Captain, this is a sensitive mission our visitors may not appreciate weapons being thrust into their face."
"Mr McRae, again I say this is Star League space and they will like it or lump it." The Captain said there was several moments of silence on the bridge as preparations continued. Three minutes later there was another radiation flare accompanied by a flash of light and the appearance of another ship. "Analysis" the captain ordered glancing at his external camera feeds.
"Sir, the vessel appears to be a Volga-class Transport definitely Clan in origin. Ninety percent certain it's the Bold Venture, Clan Sea Fox." The sensor operator said glancing over at his Captain who turned to observe Mason McRae smile, obviously what he had expected.
"Captain Cooper, prepare to receive a single Clan Sea Fox DropShip at one of this ship's docking ports and ask a squad of marines to meet me at the hatch. Once they are attached set a course for the Vision of Truth wreck."
"What exactly is this McRae? Clansmen in the Sol System."
"They are here to begin work on the Vision of Truth, the Council has decided to make something of it instead of letting it drift out there. The Bold Venture is going nowhere. We will take their DropShip to the Vision of Truth and return them when they have finished with the wreck."
"And what is to stop the Bold Venture sneaking away and striking at Terra while our back is turned?"
"Two Starward Satellites have been secreted in the area, the Bold Venture knows this and any attempt by it to move or interfere with Sol System operations is being monitored. If they decided to move we have assets in the area that will take care of them including two stealth equipped nuclear warheads. The Wild Scream is here only as a deterrent." He said turning and leaving the Command Centre. Garret cursed that his ship was being treated so poorly, it was tough being the new ship in the fleet.
 
Training Grounds
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
12th April 3080
Contest between Clan Nova Cat's Second Watch Cluster and First Defiance Training Battalion on Defiance in the Federated Suns. The Second Watch Cluster fields several Inner Sphere OmniMech designs retrofitted with Clan technology. This surprising firepower catches out the Federated Suns MechWarriors and they are easily beaten by the Nova Cat force.
In addition to this meeting of the Federated Suns and Nova Cat forces a combined arms squadron from the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment, which are on planet using Defiance’s advanced training environments, take part in a gunnery competition with several Nova Cat warriors. The Wild Geese warriors prove themselves a match for the Nova Cats eventually Corporal Jasper Cooper piloting his ARC-9M Archer BattleMech beating MechWarrior Tamara, a Nova Cat Warrior piloting a new Nova Cat Sphinx BattleMech in the final trial. Tamara refuses to accept the defeat for Clan Nova Cat instead becoming the bondsman of the victorious Wild Geese, despite the Wild Geese Commander’s refusal of her choice to join. When the Nova Cat commander refuses to accept Tamara back into his command the Wild Geese are stuck with her and her BattleMech.
Capellan Shipyards
Trznadel Star Cluster
Magistracy of Canopus Commonality
Capellan Confederation
19th April 3080
Built in secret even from local Canopian leaders a new Capellan Confederation Shipyard opens in the volatile Trznadel Star Cluster region of the Magistracy of Canopus. This shipyard will be capable of producing WarShips and JumpShips and will be defended by the Hell's Black Aces until sufficient Battle Armour and Aerospace Assets can be assigned. Work begins at the shipyards beginning to lay down the keel of the next Feng Huang-class Cruiser.
New Earth Trading Company
New Earth, Lyran Commonwealth
Star League Protectorate
24th April 3080
Star League High Command announces that New Earth will be the permanent base world of the First Special Operations Group, they have been based on the world since the Mopelia Island Attacks. At present SLDF and various Aid personnel outnumber civilians by 3-to-1. With building work planned on a Disease Control Facility and a new HPG complex the Star League tries to promote growth by buying a large stake into New Earth Trading Company, which is based on the world and has been since the First Star League. As they have effectively bought the company and nationalized it as an SLDF resource by the move the make the company a primary producer for the SLDF producing vehicles and plan to expand the current production lines brining in additional workers to help run the company.
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System Holding Point
Gladius, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
8th May 3080
Intent on securing the Isle of Skye's future and providing its population with work for years to come the Isle of Skye Military Command orders construction companies to begin construction of a JumpShip shipyard in the Gladius system. Intent on proving the Isle is capable of running such a facility without support from Tharkad initially the facility will only produce JumpShips however Skye has other plans intent on producing WarShips for the Skye people ships with no ties to Tharkad only the Isle.
To keep attention away from the construction efforts in the Gladius system the Fourth Isle of Skye Guards RCT which had recently been transferred off Gladius launches an attack against Dalkeith and Sakhalin, former Lyran worlds taken by Clan Jade Falcon and now under Ghost Bear Dominion control. Against the Isle force is the 243rd Battle Cluster of Clan Ghost Bear's Rho Galaxy. Unable to match the Isle of Skye Guards firepower the Clan unit rapidly lose ground and attempt an escape. Isle of Skye fighters refusing to allow the unit to escape target the Clan DropShips first with artillery and then aerospace attacks stranding the Ghost Bears and forcing them to fight until the last man.
Within hours of the Isle of Skye victory Archon Peter Steiner-Davion condemns the Isle of Skye attacks on the Ghost Bear Dominion sending the Second Royal Guards RCT, the First Commonwealth Guards RCT and the WarShip LCS Flygia, a Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser, to the Isle of Skye region. Although listed as a Liaison force and not intended as being an occupation force the units are all stationed on Skye less than one hundred miles from the Aten family residence. With the Isle of Skye's strongest unit on Dalkeith and Sakhalin the Isle's leader has little choice but to listen to the Lyran Commonwealth's state. For Archon Peter Steiner-Davion it was more of a sad day since he'd trusted the Isle to be independent, he only hoped that their actions did not bring the Ghost Bears down on them as it had the Draconis Combine.
Imperial Palace
Luthien, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
10th May 3080
Following years of heavy fighting the Draconis Combine Mustered Society's commander Warlord Kiyomori Minamoto announces a crash-rebuild of the DCMS with multiple OmniMech Battalions being raised on Luthien and elsewhere, new designs fielding new technology being announced. Designs fielding experimental technology are also produced in limited numbers to add new advanced capabilities.
To support the Ground Forces and Navy the DCMS announces the production of a new variant of the Nekohono'o-class Assault DropShip nicknamed simply as the HQ variant this DropShip this DropShip carries a Navy C3 system and Cruise Missile Artillery as well as being able to transport an entire command Company of BattleMechs. Intended to serve as a Command DropShip for all DCMS regiments it is intended for all units to received at least one of these DropShips by end of year 3083.
Spaceport
Fronc, Fronc Reachs
Periphery
19th May 3080
Although much of the population are wary of their arrival due to recent problems with the Liger Warriors command on Herotitus Fronc leaders welcome Clan Nova Cat's Fifteenth Garrison and New Worlds Clusters to Fronc. In a deal similar to that agreed with the Filtvelt Coalition the Nova Cats agree to help build schools and infrastructure in the Fronc Reaches for mining rights and concessions for Nova Cat forces on three different worlds. The Fronc Reaches also contract several members of the Nova Cat technician caste which allows them to eject the Capellan Confederation's personnel off Detroit.
 
Naval Battle
Melissa, Melissa Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
23rd May 3080
Working on faulty intelligence that the Wolf Dragoons were based in the Melissa Theatre Clan Jade Falcon's Falcon's Nest jumps into the Melissa Theatre encountering the LCS Snow Fire and the Clan Wolf (in-Exile)'s Broken Claw. While the Texas-class Battleship engages the Lyran Commonwealth's Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Elementals attempt to board the Falcon's Nest sensing an weakness from the Jade Falcon's flagship. They could not have been more wrong. The Jade Falcon defenders repel the Wolf (in-Exile) Elementals Marines then send their own Elementals along with a prize crew to the Broken Claw, a vicious fight breaks out aboard the Wolf (in-Exile) vessel however with their Lyran allies being held back by the Falcon's Nest's massed Naval Laser bays. Less than ten minutes later the Broken Claw was under Jade Falcon control and charging its Jump Drives, the Falcon’s Nest continuing to damage and hold back the LCS Snow Fire, when full charge was achieved both vessels jumped out and Clan Wolf (in-Exile) was missing a WarShip.
The Jade Falcons consider the Broken Claw a poor replacement for their lost Ironhold Provider with the Broken Claw becoming an unpopular vessel within the Jade Falcon naval force so much so that the Jade Falcon leadership mention to the merchant caste to attempt to trade the vessel away. In the meantime the Jade Falcons rename the vessel Jade Claw to reflect its new owners.
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Throne Room
Hasek Family Residence, New Syrtis
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th June 3080
When it came to Nathaniel Hasek's job he like it for the most part. As a Field Marshal in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns he had many duties that he was required to perform however there was one thing that he did not enjoy. Since the passing of George Hasek he had inherited the position as head of the Capellan March, at least until George's heir was old enough and had enough interest in running the show. So instead of her sitting on the New Syrtis throne Nathaniel found himself there as a new Mercenary Commander tried to woo him with an offer for them to work in the Capellan March.
Entering the throne room walking past the two sentry Cavalier Battle Armour suits were two women with dark hair in business suits with another woman between them wearing a business cut white skirt and jacket her blond hair tied back with a single hair band. As they approached the Field Marshal thought this was perhaps the negotiating team however the woman spoke before even he could greet them "Field Marshal Hasek, my name is Karen Clinton, I am commander of the Clinton's Cutthroats." Nathaniel almost fell off his chair Clinton's Cutthroats had been a mercenary command that had served the Federated Suns two centuries ago before disappearing in unusual circumstances in 2866 as far as Nathaniel could remember form his military history the Cutthroats had never been seen again and were still wanted by the AFFS.
"Commander Clinton, you are aware that Clinton's Cutthroats are wanted by the AFFS for breach of contract over two hundred years ago?" He asked carefully as he spoke he noticed the Cavalier Battle Armoured Sentries stand ready.
"I am aware of this technicality. And we are willing to answer for this charge. However we are also willing to provide the Hasek Family, who I believe were the aggrieved party, all those years ago, with a Colossus-class DropShip full of equipment to compensate for your loss Liz please." She said glancing over at one of the other women. She stepped forward handing over a list of the DropShip would carry Nathaniel almost fell over for a second time it was an impressive list of Royal-type Star League era BattleMechs.
"What is it you are looking for commander?"
"If the Hasek family could bring itself to drop the charges against my unit, we are willing to work for you again on a one year rolling contract basis. I have a single Monolith-class JumpShip with nine DropShips including the ship I will be gifting you. My forces include three Reinforced Battalions of BattleMechs, one Battalion of Armoured vehicles which includes artillery, a security force of standard infantry and two wings of aerospace fighters. All our technology is of Star League-era vintage and some is from other sources we have found."
"Other sources?" he asked trying to dig into the mystery surrounding the unit.
"Sources we are unwilling to divulge." Liz said with a small smile.
"Ah yes, so you want to work and you want to bribe me with this DropShip and equipment" Liz opened her mouth in reply but Nathaniel rose a hand to silence her "I accept your terms. Your unit is to remain at the Nadir Point until we have a posting for you."
"Thank you, Field Marshal. One final question if I may?" Nathaniel nodded "we have been away for a long time, we were looking at some of the technology we seen on the way in Heavy personal armour and Mechs with variable weapons we were hoping to perhaps buy some?"
"The 'heavy personal armour' you mention is called Battle Armour that particular model" he said indicating to the Sentries "is the Cavalier the local Federated Suns mass production model. "The Mechs with modular weapons are called OmniMechs; the locally produced model is the Templar an eighty-five ton design."
"Would we be permitted to purchase samples?"
"Complete your first year contract and I will allow you to buy all the Cavaliers and Templars you can afford." Nathaniel promised Karen Clinton smiled saluted, turned and briskly left the throne room. Nathaniel immediately put a call into the DMI and MIIO, the Federated Suns Intelligence Operations departments informing them of Clinton's Cutthroats resurfacing while at the same time he diverted the new Colossus and its equipment to his family estates on New Syrtis immediately coming up with a plan for it.
Terran Defence Council
Unity City, Terra
Star League Protectorate
11th June 3080
Standing in the large meeting room within on of Unity Cities newly reopened Star League Governmental buildings SLDF Admiral David Natale stood ahead of Star League Commanding General Archer Christifori, Governor of Terra Gavin Dow, Lord James Cavannah, the head of Terran construction, High Commissioner Jillian Elton and several leading Terran Senators. Included in their numbers was Duke Christopher Windsor-Cameron who according to rumour was pushing for a planetary election which would see Gavin Dow replaced as Governor of Terra.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, what I am about to say is classed as Top Secret – Black.†He began many things were classified, the names of the SAS Units and their deployments. Few things were categorized as “Black†under the new rule of the Star League on Terra “Top Secret – Black†items were one of the few things that could encure the death penalty if revealed. “In December 3079 Dr. David Lear led a scientific team into the Kuiper Belt of the Sol System after discovering some information in one of the vaults uncovered within Unity City.†He explained “this mission was authorized by my office and financed through Dr. Lear’s considerable personal funds.†Many of them had already known of the mission, the Doctor son of Kai Allard-Liao had come to Terra to lecture and study at Chicago University. Something which had not lasted too long as his inquisitive mind had led him on a treasure hunt. “In the Kuiper Belt hidden for the centuries since the fall of the first Star League was a Casper research facility.â€
“Oh god†Jillian Elton whispered, a native of Terra she’d heard all about the Casper legends throughout the years.
“Indeed†David agreed, as a career spacer he’d heard horror stories of the Casper Drones for as long as anyone else. Artificially Controlled Drones that could think and fight by themselves even self repair some of their own systems. “Doctor Lear discovered this facility was defended by three Lola-class Casper Drones, also known as the M5 Capital Drone, and a single Newgrange-class Yardship all of which were fully operational although the Newgrange was in a standby-mode.†David Natale explained “what Doctor Lear did not discover was the primary research facility hidden on a frozen rock nearby nor the M-9 “Pavise†Defence Station and its attached defence drone DropShips and Drone fighters.â€
“A complete nightmare, a drone fleet†Duke Christopher Winsor-Cameron said quietly.
“The Star League Defence Force has confirmed that these drones will not fire on any vessel and that the defence vessels are there purely as a deterant they have no directives to head into the Terran system or carry out any duty other than defend the facility.â€
“Can we be sure these things are no threat? Caspers were known to have their own directives.†Gavin Dow asked
“Not completely certain however we can be certain they will not attack a Star League vessel and they went out of their way not to destroy a civilian vessel only firing warning shots. They have also refused to leave their designated patrol area. Unfortunately our teams have also been completely unable to access any of the vessels, station or research facility other than the Newgrange.†David continued.
“So they sit out there useless until we can board them and find out exactly what the purpose of the facility was.†Dow pondered for a moment “what is the Star League’s position on these finds?†He asked looking towards Archer Christifori, who so far had remaind quiet.
“The SLDF currently is keeping an on the facility, and we’d expect to be kept in the loop for all developments in regards to these vessels and any further developments of the Technology.†He said quietly “but this is a Terran matter not one for the wider Star League†he began turning to look at High Commissioner Elton.
“From a legal perspective†she said carefully “under the new Star League laws written when this League was formed the SLDF can assist in defensive matters and in military development but there is no need for any state to disclose exactly what they are working or where there bases are. As Terra has been recoignized as the “Capitol†of the Star League Protectorate, the Protectorate would have no need to show its secrets.â€
“What of Dr. Lear?†Christopher Windsor-Cameron asked “he is next in line for the throne of the St Ives Compact. Should he disclose this information we would have little way of stopping him.â€
“I have spoken with Duke David Lear†Archer Christifori said “he has agreed to keep quiet about the discovery of these vessels and has wiped all information from the DropShip he used during his expedition. However he has named his price, assuming the SLDF can remove it from the research facility; Dr Lear wants possession of the Newgrange-class Yardship.â€
“Proposterous!†Gavin Dow almost shouted “that ship would help put the Terran… SLDF Navy back to where it belongs to be at the forefront of the Inner Sphere. In the St Ives Compact it would be wasted.â€
“It would be a small price to pay if the Succession Lords all found out about them. Everyone would want a piece of the pie.†David Natale reminded the Governor “as a price goes it isn’t too bad. Titan is facilitating the SLDF Navy’s recovery very well, and its capabilities improve every year.â€
“We should have further facilities availiable by the end of the year†Lord James Cavannah said qietly. “Unfortunately assuming we get into this research facility and space station my structural engineers will need to be taken from other projects to assist and ensure they are viable for use. Not having the Newgrange around gives us one less thing to worry about.â€
“Doctor Lear has agreed that he will cover the “discovery†of the Newgrange by taking a very public trip into the periphery where he will find the vessel abandoned.†Admiral Natale confirmed.
“He’s a lucky boy†Dow said sarcastically.
“He found it in the first place; I’d say that’s lucky enough.†Christopher Windsor-Cameron said “I’d also say it was a small price to keep prying eyes away from this little project. I assume the Belters have taken no interest?†He said referring to the residents of the Terran system who resided on habitats built into asteroids in various parts of the system and Kuiper Belt.
“They didn’t take interest in the area for a few centuries. I’d be surprised if they did now†Christifori said “we have noted they are taking more interest in SLDF vessels making trips through the area but most of the time they come close enough to have a look and then back off.â€
“Like crows to shiny objects.†Natale confirmed “the SLDF has had no issues with the Belters at all.â€
“Assuming we can remove the Newgrange from the facility I suppose we can afford to allow it to fall into the possession of the St Ives Compact. But I want to make sure this discovery remains a Terran one for the forseeable future. We don’t need the Federated Suns showing off their new Casper Avalons in a year’s time.†Dow said looking quite annoyed about everything.
“Governor, trust that the SLDF has Terra’s best interests at hand.†Archer promised, his people would make sure that all discoveries benifited the SLDF first but also that the information wasn’t conveniently lost when it became time for other states to know about it.
“Governor, I am sure that our woulds current defence force will remember its place and Terra’s place before endangering it or becoming distracted by other concerns. The Star League flag flies proudly over this world, now we have another relic of that time, I believe we are heading towards another golden age. The perfect time for new blood, ideas and beliefs†Duke Windsor-Cameron said almost taunting Dow over ComStar’s failures.
“And older ideas and ideals are born through experience. Knowing where the falls that are coming are before you arrive there so you can avoid them.†Dow countered
“Gentlemen†Admiral David Natale said firmly “this is not a political debate. This briefing directly affects Terra’s security its past and possible future. I’d please remind everyone that this briefing is classified Top Secret – Black and I’d wish you all a plesant day. This briefing is now over.†He said retaking his seat as the others left the Admiral and Commanding-General remained seating.
“Quite a find, do you think we can use these ships or even see the Casper system reborn?â€
“Perhaps†Natale confirmed “but only in time sir. Three capital ships and some light drones assisting are barely enough to keep that facility secure. We would need about three hundred capital drones just to secure the Terran system not to mention space station and ground defences.â€
“But the ground defences are already well on there way to being restored to ComStar-era levels. Even with the Succession Lords resurgent WarShips I don’t believe any could breach Terran Defences supplemented by SLDF vessels as it stands.â€
“That is unlikely. But the technology behind the Casper system is so complex; it would take a room full of scientists about ten years just to crack it. And we don’t have access to it yet.â€
“That’s a lovely word that Admiral “yet†but remember it only takes one genius.†Christifori warned he was both happy with the discovery and worried by it.
“Aye sir†Natale confirmed his own fears about the legendary Casper defences mirroring the Commanding-Generals. The future was forever changing… the future was forever troublesome.
Joint Research Project
NAIS University of Thorin
New Avalon, Thorin
14th June 3080
In a joint statement the New Avalon Institute of Science and the University of Thorin announce that they have been awarded a joint grant to research creating an "AR-15" Sub-Capital Missile Launcher. Intended to act for Sub-Capital Missiles as the AR-10 acts for Capital Missiles capable of firing more than a single type of missile from one launcher. As almost no research has been done on the topic both Universities are starting from scratch. Neither University expects quick results however all Inner Sphere Navies and even the Clan Watch keeps close eyes on the developments.
Clan Wolf Objective Raid
Star's End, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
23rd June 3080
Clan Wolf launches an Objective Raid against Star's End which had been turned into a Pirate Haven by rebel clan forces and several shattered Pirate bands. Clan Wolf WarShips encounter weapons attached to asteroids surrounding the planet and several minefields during the burn in a Union C-class DropShip belonging to the Seventh Wolf Cavalry Cluster is destroyed when it strikes a mine while several escorting aerospace fighters are also forced into retreat.
On the ground the Seventh Wolf Cavalry supported by elements from both the Sixth Wolf Cavalry and the Eleventh Battle Cluster, all Omega Galaxy, are immediately attacked by pirate forces in such numbers that even the Wolf commanders are surprised. During nearly sixteen hours of combat the Seventh Wolf Cavalry Cluster are all but destroyed and Katrina Wolf, former Archon of the Lyran Alliance, is missing in action her Griffin IIC destroyed on the battle field. The remaining elements of Omega Galaxy retreat off world unwilling to waste more lives on pirate forces.
With the Wolves forced into retreat the pirates realize the game is up and abandon their camps on Star's End, they take with them the injured body of Katrina Wolf found on the battlefield. New Wolf Khan Nathan Fetladral removes Omega Galaxy's commander replacing them with a Crusader instead.
A busy month hope you enjoy
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Burn in-System
Detroit, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
8th July 3080
When the Fronc Reaches refuses to deliver new Mechs to the Capellan Confederation Chancellor Naomi Centrella orders the CCSS Anhui, an Imparvido-class Destroyer, and the Second Canopian Light Horse to the Detroit system intent on finding out how the Fronc Reaches had overpowered their guards and found the back bone to stop the Capellan Confederation.
During the burn in towards Fronc the Anhui and the Canopian Light Horse discover exactly what had given the Fronc Reaches the will to show some back bone. Before it got anywhere near the world the Clan Nova Cat WarShip Excalibur, a Scimitar-class Heavy Cruiser, challenged them firing ten Killer Shark Capital Missiles over the Capellan ship’s bow warning them off the world. As the ship closely resembled a House Davion Avalon-class Cruiser the Capellans assumed that House Davion had taken an interest in the area and deployed AFFS assets. Unwilling to engage the WarShip the Capellan WarShip and ground forces retreated while the Scimitar changed its position within the system. Unbeknown to the Capellan force, or even the local Fronc forces the Nova Cats had also moved the Barrier Reef, one of their Bug-Eye Surveillance Craft into the system as well mixing it into civilian DropShip traffic.
Zenith Point, FSS Melissa Steiner-Davion
Robinson System, Draconis March
Federated Suns
16th July 3080
Silently in space the FSS Melissa Steiner-Davion, one of the Federated Suns mighty Avalon-class Cruisers hung waiting silently. In space around them several squadrons of AFFS Fighters, three Overlord A3 Assault DropShips and the FSS Intrepid all also waited. There was however no civilian traffic both the Nadir and Zenith point Recharge Stations were under MIIO Control and all civilian DropShip traffic had been ordered to remain out with the no-fly zone until authorized. Both Robinson's Governor and Duke Tarncred Sandoval were unhappy with the arrangement however the DMI's commander, Field Marshal Carver Felsner, had personally visited Robinson and delivered First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion's hand written orders leaving the March Lord with no option but to follow the DMI and MIIO's instructions.
At 16:18 almost precisely a single flash appeared at the Zenith Point and one ship appeared badly battered the ship was only noticeable by the Red and Black paint scheme of the AFFS. After a few tense moments as the Melissa Steiner-Davion prepared for battle the vessel sent a coded signal that identified it as a DMI vessel. Three hours later the DMI had gone over every inch of the vessel and maintenance crews from the Intrepid had ensured the vessel was safe to move they jump leaving the Robinson system heading for Camelot Command. Onboard the engineers are most pleased Naval C3 technology is preset on the ship.
Technicrom Naval Engineering/Forerunner AG Shipyards
Tamarind Orbit, Tamarind System
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
20th July 3080
After almost eight years closed for upgrades the Technicrom Naval Engineering/Forerunner AG Shipyards around Tamarind reopen. With the time closed used to introduced several upgrades they are immediately involved in building two brand new WarShips for the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby. Both of these vessels are classed as Unity-class Frigates a previously unknown classification of WarShip.
Chicago Offices, Interstellar Expeditions
Chicago, North American Continent
Terra, Star League Protectorate
24th July 3080
“Dr Lear, we were very surprised to see your interest in Interstellar Expeditions, surely Chicago University is enough challenge for you? Why want to disappear to the back-end of Nowhere looking for Lostech?†The Interstellar Expeditions recruiter asked, she still couldn’t believe he was here.
“Well, I think I know where there is riches beyond our wildest dreams and I plan on finding it. However if I register with the SLDF then they will want part of my find. I want this to be purely mine, with IE obviously receiving ample compensation.â€
“What exactly do you think you have found.â€
“I’m unwilling to say, lets just say if I’m right it will change the way we look many things.†He said cryptically “I have purchased a Magellan-class JumpShip and an Aurora-class DropShip configured for cargo, all I need is IE’s support in finding a crew that will be capable enough of helping achieve my goal.†Another hour of cryptic discussion continued until the IE representative agreed to David’s request the Doctor became a member of IE for one single missing and by the end of the day he was heading off planet to his waiting DropShip with a crew eager to get started.
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Entry Gates, Albion Military Academy
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
2nd August 3080
At the gates of the Albion Military Academy it was a scene repeated throughout the Federated Suns at every military academy about twice a year. However today it was slightly different. At the main gates sat a single Deusenberg Luxury Hover craft with three people standing at the passenger door. Behind them stood two Stealth OmniMechs and two squads of Battle Armour trying to stay out of the way and protective at the same time.
“Your grandfather would be very happy with you.†Victor Steiner-Davion said quietly ignoring the growing amount of reporters and photographers arriving in the area. He’d tried to keep this quiet for as long as possible but a Davion entering a military academy was big news in the Federated Suns especially when that Davion was next in line for the throne. Victor’s oldest child stood in front of him Burton Davion, he was only sixteen but the Davion name had a lot of pull and he’d been accepted two years ahead after working through the two previous summers on his studies to put him ahead in school.
“I know dad.†Burton said quietly he’d heard the story of how Hanse Davion had went to this school, how much his father would have liked to go here.
“Good luck my son†Dania Centrella-Davion said with a small smile
“Thanks mum†behind him the Drill Master was calling the new batch of cadets into formations. “I’ve got to goâ€
“Yes you do†Victor said saluting his son Burton returned the crisp salute.
“I’ll see you both at the weekend†Burton said kissing his mother’s cheek before running to join the rest of his cadets.
“He’ll do us proud†Danai said quietly
“Of course he will" the First Prince said confidently "he’s our son.†Victor said completely mater-of-fact smiling he climbed back into the limo.
Downtown market
New Hessen, Capellan March
Federated Suns
3rd August 3080
Just over a kilometre from New Hessen Mechworks a terrorist car-bomb explodes in a packed city centre market killing thirty-eight people and injuring nearly one hundred others. The New Hessen Militia along with the First New Hessen Irregulars based on the planet deploy multiple lances of Mechs and infantry squads to the area to help keep aid workers safe as the terrorist bomb is investigated.
Mountain Trade Route
Goshen, Capellan March
Federated Suns
9th August 3080
In a high mountain pass a Nolan LevCar is attacked on Goshen by an unidentified company of BattleMechs. These Mechs appeared to be of light class and carried stealth armour as well as Particle Projection Cannons. The impressive armaments, armour and speed of the Nolan meant the attack did not do heavy damage however to “open air†carriages had their cargos knocked off and another passenger car was heavily damaged causing a fire which killed forty-two people. No trace of these BattleMechs was found following an extensive search by the Goshen Militia and the Training Battalion on planet.
Star League Defence Force
Firebase, Northern Hemisphere
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
10th August 3080
The Star League open a new firebase on Liberty with the formation of the Third Royal BattleMech Regiment. This unit is paired with the Third Sirian Lancers for training on Liberty. It’s commander Colonel Cameron Lee is a former member of the First Royal ComGuard Regiment and a native of Liberty. Although the unit lacks any conventional armour, infantry, aerospace or transport assets initially the High Command promises to rectify this as quickly as possible.
Kathil Orbit, James McKenna Shipyards
Kathil, Capellan March
Federated Suns
15th August 3080
A previous unidentified type of DropShip about the size of a Gazelle Combined Arms DropShip appeared in the Kathil system travelling at over seven gravities of acceleration. When the DropShip engaged local defence fighters with Gauss Rifle, Particle cannons and missiles the ship was classified as hostile and additional defences began to scramble. As the DropShip closed on the James McKenna Shipyards the FSS Andrew Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser got in the way of the incoming DropShip. The Andrew Davion engaged the incoming DropShip with capital weapon fire. Capital Missiles from the Avalon were severely degraded by the DropShips anti-missile systems causing very little damage, other weapons couldn't lock on the swift craft, the DropShip travelling at close to seven g’s slammed into the front of the Avalon. The size and speed of the impact smashed the front of the ship tearing the port side of the ship clean off the vessel and ripping open its decks to space, the Avalon‘s ammunition supplies detonated shortly after gutting the remains of the ship. Although some of the crew were able to move to the escape pods ninety percent of the crew was killed in action and the ship was classed as a total loss.
Following the attack AFFS Admiralty calls an immediate review of the Avalon-class Cruiser and for a halt on both in production vessels and for the designers to come up with a new armament for the vessel since its capital missiles are obviously inadequate.
Blue Talon Command Deck, Koinz Jump-point
Koinz, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
18th August 3080
“Sir, several Jump signatures detected - multiple JumpShips incoming.â€
“Weapons command power all weapons, if they are non-Clan forces your weapons are to engage immediately. All targets are valid.†The commander said there would be no honour for any incoming inner sphere unit with his words DropShips, WarShips, Fighters and even JumpShips had become targets.
“Shall we not be offering a batchall, Queneg?†The executive officer offered
“Neg, our gun crews do not get enough opportunities.†The Commander said smiling.
“Incoming JumpShip Invader-class. Identifies as the Wolf Spirit, a Wolf’s Dragoons vessel.â€
“Excellent, all guns fire at will!†The vessel’s commander said Naval auto cannons immediately engaged as the gunners gleefully engaged the target. The first auto cannon shell broke the JumpShip’s back even as the three attached DropShips tried to escape a second shell struck the forward DropShip’s bridge venting the compartment immediately the shell travelled straight through the craft killing everyone aboard.
“Second and Third JumpShips emerging one Invader, one Tramp both Wolf’s Dragoons registered.â€
“Continue to fire†the commander said
“Sir, one of the DropShips from the first JumpShip is retreating - Aurora-class. It is out of weapons range.â€
“Dispatch our fighter stars to pursue as far as their fuel will safely carry them.â€
“Star Captain, that will leave vulnerable to Dragoon aerospace fighters, I suggest switching our Naval Lasers to anti-fighter operations?â€
“Agreed do so, continue firing Autocannons at the emerging JumpShips hopefully the Dragoons are brining all their regiments.†the commander said as the Blue Talon continued to fire on the helpless JumpShips and the fleeing DropShips. The Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser’s Naval Lasers meanwhile had turned their attention to the aerospace fighters launching from the DropShips before the WarShip’s Naval guns gutted them, the pilots at least had a chance to fight back flying their own ships.
“Final radiation signatures One Monolith, One Invader and a Scout.â€
“Target them all at your choice weapons.â€
“Sir, two more DropShips have slipped through our fire they are on outbound vectors to join the first.â€
“Recall our fighters, XO have all gun crews put down for extra gun practice as soon as this is over. None of those DropShips should have escaped.â€
“Aff, Star Captain, should I also send word to the planet’s garrison?â€
“Inform them we have engaged in this Trial and they are only to engage targets that break Koinz’s atmosphere. Also inform them that we are breaking from the Jump-point to pursue the remaining Dragoons.â€
“Sir, the Scout has jumped clear, a further three DropShips have retreated into the system, no JumpShips remain. All enemy aerospace fighters have been destroyed.â€
“Pity the Scout escaped, helm plot an intercept course for the all escaped DropShips.†The Captain said leaving the bridge “XO, you have the bridge†as the doors closed.
For the next three days the Blue Talon hunted down a Fortress and a pair of Unions however the remaining three an Aurora, a Leopard CV and an Mercer all were able to evade the Blue Talon and her fighters. On the third day another vessel entered the system this one the Wolf (in-Exile) vessel Werewolf, a McKenna-class Battleship, had more than enough weapons to make the Blue Talon remain at range while all three surviving Dragoons DropShips retreated within the range of the WarShip’s guns. Unfortunately the damage was done and the Wolf’s Dragoons Epsilon Regiment which had been contained within the destroyed DropShips was gone. The Wolf (in-Exile) Clan willing to save the Dragoons but unwilling to fight their battles for them removed the survivors from the system.
Press Conference
Jacson, Sirdar Combat Zone
Capellan March, Federated Suns
21st August 3080
During a press conference on the occupied Capellan Confederation world of Jacson the AFFS appointed governor is shot dead by a sniper assassin. The Second New Hessen Irregulars Mercenary Regiment which had been assigned to the planet as a security force attempts to track the assassin but to no avail.
Border Skirmish
Ko, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
25th August 3080
Annoyed at the Isle of Skye’s constant building up of weapons and the strike at the Ghost Bear Dominion the DCMS launches an attack over the border lead by Assault DropShip Squadrons and supported by the WarShip Musashi. Finding no WarShip defence the Fifth Sword of Light Regiment supported by the Second District of Dieron Regulars dropped onto the planet.
On the ground they found mercenary unit Reed’s Brew and the Lyran Commonwealth’s Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards First Battalion. Against two regiments of Draconis Combine troops the Lyran troops stood little chance against the invaders. The Lyran commander ordered the Reed’s Brew to buy his unit time to dig in, instead Reed’s Brew retreated to their DropShips near the city spaceport informing the Isle of Skye commander to call a truce before both units were destroyed.
Several hours later the Draconis Combine forces have surrounded the capital city of Ko with the Musashi and several assault DropShips in low orbit over the city. Following a brief communication from the Draconis Combine troops former Star League Games winner Colonel Alex Hutchings accepts to surrender himself to the DCMS forces along with a Battalion of equipment in exchange for the safe transit of his forces and Reed’s Brew. Colonel Alex Hutchings marches out of the spaceport in his Atlas II and is never seen again by the Lyran troops.
The next day the third Battalion of the Fifth Sword of Light land on Alphecca and take the world without firing a shot catching the local milita in their barracks forced to surrender or die the world falls.
Border Skirmish
La Blon, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
28th August 3080
On La Blon the newly formed Sixth Sword of Light, moving without their support, finds more competition than any other troop on planet is the Gray Death Legion rotating to train with the local militia. The Gray Death Legion was only a single Battalion however they threw themselves straight at the newly formed DCMS Regiment. Without further support the DCMS unit crumples and falls back to their DropShips.
The next day the Twenty-fourth District of Dieron Regulars delayed by a faulty JumpShip arrive in system. Against two mostly intact Regiments the Gray Death battalion has no chance and it abandons the world heading for Glengarry. On the way they send an emergency broadcast to Skye informing them of the assaults. Hours later on the Twenty-ninth the world of Unkalhal also falls to DCMS forces.
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LCAF Counter Attack
Ko, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
4th September 3080
The LCAF’s Second Royal Guards RCT supported by two Battalions of the Gray Death Legion and escorted by the LCS Flygia and a squadron of assault DropShips launch a counter attack on Ko. In orbit they find the DCS Musashi and her escort of DropShips. A naval engagement breaks out as the ground forces of the Second Royal Guards heads to ground and attack the DCMS forces on Ko.
In orbit the Yamato-class Battleship Musashi finds itself matched quite well against the Flygia however with superior amounts of DropShips support the Musashi finds itself out manoeuvred and its engines badly damaged in the opening few salvos. The Lyran Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser continued moving around the Musashi causing even more damage as the battleship struggled to keep its main guns on the Flygia.
On the ground the elite Second Royal Guards RCT with mercenary support defeat the Fifth Sword of Light in three separate battles and forced the Second Dieron Regulars back into their DropShips. Both ground and space Draconis Combine commanders agreed that they could not match the Lyran Counter attack and they begin an evacuation. In space the Flygia’s commander orders his ship to back off the Musashi is missing most of her guns and half her engines and is no threat, ready to accept the Battleship’s surrender when a dozen DropShips from the ground join the wounded WarShip. Willing to sacrifice themselves to protect the Musashi the Flygia allows the WarShip and its DropShip escort to leave.
Lunch break
Albion Training Academy, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
9th September 3080
At the Albion Training Academy just over a month and Prince Burton Davion had already been in three scuffles all because of his father and his name, some because of jealousy some because they disagreed with his father‘s policy‘s some because they thought the Davion‘s had had their time. For the first time in his life he knew why famous people went to schools under different names an alias to protect their true name, it certainly would have been easier then again he knew his father would say “It’s part of what makes you into the person you will be and will help make you ready for my position. If the people see you are willing to be yourself around them then they will be willing to stand with you when you need them.†Several of the students which had been giving him trouble were from families which would have benefited if Katherine Steiner-Davion had replaced his aunt Yvonne when his father was away fighting the Clan War. Or others who had looked forward to a Varnay family coup and seen things snatched away by his father and his allies.
Fortunately Burton had also seen the flip side of this was he’d met people who respected his name also most willing to put their lives in his and his father’s hands purely because they were Davions. Burton knew some wanted to use him for his name and the prestige that knowing a Davion would bring them while others genuinely respected it, it was his job to work out which was which and try to make sure he didn‘t screw his family‘s reputation up there was no pressure. Sitting beside him was Lewis Melville, Grant Helman and Lisa Carter all just over a year older than he but at the same level because of Burton‘s previous training, their instructor had given them a fifteen minute break to cool off before the next set of tests Burton actually wondered if they‘d ever learn something useful and if he‘d ever even get close to his goal of being a BattleMech pilot. As Burton had requested his bodyguard unit from the First Davion Guards RCT had kept at a distance allowing him to live the life of a student as much as possible, Burton knew his father would have ordered them to respect his orders to a point and Burton planned to find those limits at Albion, a little independence never hurt.
“So what do you think the slave master has in store for us next?†Lisa asked generally naming their instructor by his newest nickname, slave sergeant, drillman, crazy S.O.B had all be used so far in the short time they‘d been at Albion.
“Don’t know but it better not be more PT, I’m done†Lewis complained he was lying on his back on the ground beside them covered in sweat and grime. An entire morning of physical training was good for honing your body’s muscle and endurance however it killed afterwards draining all energy.
“We’ll be fine, Lewis take some fluid†Burton said dropping a bottle of water beside him, Lewis groaned but reached for the bottle at first missing the bottle then empting it over his face and chest spluttering slightly as some went up his nose much to his friends amusement.
“Lewis, quit complaining and get up, Burton you know those guys?†Grant asked immediately alert he was a big man for someone only seventeen years old Burton always wondered if somehow he was from one of the Clans and been misplaced at birth.
“Negative, but those are AFFS uniforms, I just can’t place them.†Burton said on the ball “another test?â€
“Not sure†Grant said raising to his feet to meet the men “can I help you gentlemen?†He asked extending his hand towards the lead man.
“Sure pass on a message for us, the Federated Suns will never forget the Avalon Hussars†one of the men said smashing Grant over the face with his fist flooring the young man before dropping onto Grant’s back there was an loud crack as something broke Grant groaned in pain but didn‘t even have the life to scream.
“Scatter!†Burton shouted both his able bodied friends moved off as did several other cadets “CODE RED!†He screamed as one of the other men charged him. Although young to be a cadet Burton was still a Davion and he’d taken martial arts courses for several years at home preparing himself for just such an occasion, he dropped to a crouch spinning his leg in in front of him tripping the man, the uniformed man tripped over his feet and slammed into the ground as Burton jumped back to his feet right into the grasp of the third man.
“Too slow little Davion, don’t worry you won’t feel a thing…†the man said from behind him as there was a barely audible noise and a swish of wind that went past Burton, the man’s grip went slack and he fell backwards with half his head missing. All around him Davion Guards appeared to protect Burton and take down the remaining two men a rapid series of shots from hand-weapons finished off both remaining assailants.
“Medic!†Burton shouted looking at the still prone form of Grant Helman dropping to his knees rolling him over onto his back he grabbed the student’s head holding him as steady as possble “don’t worry they’ll fix you up.†Burton said barely holding back the tears Grant’s face was covered in blood he’d been sick and his nose appeared broken.
“Sire, he’s gone we need to get this area secure and you safe.â€
“I’m not leaving him!†Burton shouted angry “get a damned Medic†he couldn’t believe that they’d make him leave his injured friend, Grant wasn’t dead he couldn’t be.
“He’s gone sire.†The guard began but he could tell Burton had the stubborn determination of his family already down to a key “Remove the Prince, have a cordon set up around this area, ALL STUDENTS CLEAR OUT return to your quarters until further notice.†The lead trooper shouted
“I’ll have your ranks if you touch me!†Burton screamed in anger as the troopers dragged him away kicking and screaming still reaching for Grant‘s still body.
“This is why your father already cleared us to do what we need to sire, just take it easy.†One of the troopers said grabbing one arm while another bodyguard grabbed his second arm together they dragged him away from the scene into the building under cover. An hour later a vehicle arrived and took Burton back to the Davion Palace to recover for the weekend, the young prince had much to think about he‘d learned a valuable lesson today just not the one he expected ‘how to lose a friend and still be able to continue afterwards.â€
AFFS Storage Facility
Alcyone, Alcyone Perimeter Defence Zone
Capellan March, Federated Sun
10th September 3080
At nearly midnight in an industrial area of Alcyone a group of Kressly Dillinger Police Vehicles escorting four Brundel Dump Trucks arrived at an AFFS Storage Facility. The Police vehicles machine guns opened fire on the small guard force eliminating them within the first minute as several dozen black clad troopers entered the room and began removing AFFS weapons and supplies. An hour later all four Brundel’s completely full of supplies the convoy them moved through the area without a single challenge leaving the area unnoticed. In the morning the alarm was raised however the supplies were gone and there was no trace of the raiders or their vehicles.
Aten Residence
Skye, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
15th September 3080
Despite the troubles on the border Skye has something to celebrate Duchess Hermonie Aten gives birth to a daughter Rebecca Kelswa-Aten on Skye the second daughter for the Duchess Aten and Duke Robert Kelswa-Steiner is fit and healthy.
As fighting with the Draconis Combine spreads to further worlds Skye asks the Lyran Commonwealth for further military assistance meanwhile the Star League Advisory Council orders the two Succession States to make peace.
Court of Tikonov, Tikograd
Tikonov, Tikonov Combat Region
Capellan March, Federated Suns
18th September 3080
The Court of Tikonov led by Duke Jeff Morgan was up in arms at the local AFFS commander Leftenant-General Martha Carns, commander of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT. This morning a company of unknown BattleMechs had raided two of Tikonov’s major BattleMech factories while a commando team had stolen one of the docked DropShips. Combined the force had stolen over a Battalion of locally produced BattleMechs and armour. The Kathil Uhlans had not allowed the force to escape unmolested in total eight of the Mechs had been destroyed and the amount of salvage they had captured would likely lead to an origin for the raids. Today however the Court of Tikonov was in uproar at the AFFS Failure to protect Sovereign Tikonov assets.
Occupied Territory, Victoria Shipyards
Victoria, Capellan March
Federated Suns
24th September 3080
Near the Victoria Shipyards a Mule-class DropShip veered off course in an apparent course malfunction caused by its rear thrusters miss firing. The DropShip spun uncontrolled into one of the upper areas of the shipyards exploding under the impact causing damage to multiple structures throughout the shipyards further delaying ongoing Federated Suns repair efforts.
City of Purki
Robinson, Robinson Combat Region
Draconis March, Federated Suns
28th September 3080
The AFFS was a pro-active army they regularly travelled through city terrain showing the flag and ensuring people felt safe today the Robinson March Militia had come to the city of Purki for urban patrol movements, good training experience as well as making a presence felt. Leftenant Seri Toht led her medium weight Watchman through the city of Purki with pride knowing that their presence made the people feel more comfortable and secure in their homes. “Gold One, from Gold Four†MechWarrior Alex Hutchings her last lance mate called out from his trailing Penetrator.
“Gold Four, go ahead.†She said his Mech was the biggest and probably the worse Mech to be moving through a city but it was part and parcel of working in the Draconis March Militia.
“I have unknown radiation readings from the East approximately one kilometre from here.†He reported.
“Civilian construction perhaps?†She wondered out aloud in the back of her head she was thinking of a raider or unknown Mech of some sort, likely spilling over from the recent troubles in the Capellan March.
“Negative, it does not appear to be any type of reactor.â€
“Not a reactor? You must be reading that wrong Gold Four, no way there can be anything like that out here.†Gold Three replied from the middle of the formation.
“Pipe down Gold Three, Gold Two get some height report back if you see anything.†She said addressing her fourth lance mate Sergeant Malek Stuart his almost new Valkyrie was the most mobile of all four of her Mechs able to jump over two hundred metres on jump jets.â€
“Roger Lead†he replied launching his thirty-five ton Mech skyward destroying the Fero-crete under his Mech, using jump jets in a city was generally frowned upon during peacetime even on hardened surfaces. “Detecting nothing out of the ordinary†He reported “wait a minute…â€
“What do you see?†Seri asked looking at the falling Valkyrie but she never got a response or needed one in the distance there was a bright explosion followed by a supersonic blast wave. Seri’s forty ton Watchman was picked up like a rag doll as it was catapulted through the air, debris rained through the sky as the City of Purki, its three million inhabitants and the Robinson Draconis March Militia were destroyed in a fifty kiloton nuclear detonation.
News of the explosion spread like wildfire across the Federated Suns, Inner Sphere and Terra Davion intelligence agencies the MIIO and DMI were at a loss to explain the explosion or look to blame anyone. On Terra however at the heart of the Star League Protectorate Governor Gavin Dow, former Precentor of ComStar met with several people he’d formerly served with in ComStar. They all knew what had exploded on Robinson, centuries ago ComStar had made a deal with the Sandoval family of Robinson that they would store military hardware under the city of Purki for use by ComStar and the people of Robinson should the Draconis Combine land on the planet and try to do what they had done at Kentares to the population of Robinson. Unfortunately none of the members of this secret Cabal knew of anyone else who knew of this facility or about its Santa Ana based self destruct mechanism.
To make matters worse days Davion agents discover the secret ComStar facility in the radioactive ruins, the DMI agents report to New Avalon that the facility was empty of equipment but appeared to be of Star League vintage. None of the former-ComStar agents knew who had cleared out the equipment, enough to equip a Star League Brigade, or where they were now based. Agreeing to bury the fact in their graves none of the former-ComStar cabal members would speak of the facility or the events again.
Unnamed Periphery Rock
Lyran Commonwealth Periphery
30th September 3080
On an unnamed rock Samantha Silver's Sabres mercenary unit under Interstellar Expeditions contract are seen in action in the periphery. Fighting beside the Lyran Commonwealth‘s Distant Rim Lancers, the unit is able once again to turn the tide against the Green Ghosts turning the engagement into a rare victory for the Lyran Commonwealth forces. Following the engagement Interstellar Expeditions sends agents to their Galatea offices push the MRBC to allowing the Silver‘s Sabres to register as a fully qualified Mercenary unit.
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Clan Stone Rhino Territory
York, Kerensky Cluster
1st October 3080
Clan Steel Viper drops on York with an avenging fury dropping three full galaxies, sixteen clusters, on the remaining Clan Stone Rhino forces based on the ravaged world. The Stone Rhinos demoralized from the loss of the Clan and the devastation on the world fall to pieces and are destroyed or captured to the man by the Steel Vipers. Leader of the Stone Rhinos saKhan Liam Johns officially surrenders the Clans remaining assets to Clan Steel Viper.
Castle Robinson, Sandoval Royal Residence
Robinson City, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Suns
5th October 3080
In the bowels of Castle Robinson on the Draconis March capitol world of the same name Duke Tarncred Sandoval liege lord of the Draconis March was celebrating. In the family medical facility his wife Simony Duvall had gives birth to the newest of the Sandoval line his first child and heir Elaine. Years before Tarncred had courted Yvonne Steiner-Davion however now he truly felt happy.
DropShip Slasher (Mule-class DropShip)
Deep Space, Rack
Periphery
9th October 3080
The pirate DropShip Slasher had just left their JumpShip at the Nadir point and was now heading in system toward the world of Pain. The world was the personal world of the Pirate King Hooper Morrison, leader of Morrison’s Extractors. Onboard the DropShip was Pirate King Midnight Stroud; Morrisons trusted Leitenant and the person who had defeated Clan Wolf on Star’s End and extracted more pirates than Morrison had expected. Annoyingly for Midnight Morrison had heard of the victory quickly and ordered everything taken from Star’s End taken to Pain immediately.
Walking amongst the prisoners with a pair of bodyguards Midnight Stroud spied a woman he guessed was in her forties with long blond hair dressed in small shorts and a loosely fit tank-top she was beautiful even for a Clansman. Motioning for his bodyguard to stand back he moved forward sitting beside her “Hello†he began.
“What do you want?†Katrina asked defiantly despite being a prisoner she was still Katrina Wolf, formerly Steiner-Davion, the child of Hanse Davion and the pupil of Vladimir Ward she would not be stared down by some pirate.
“To talk, your accent it is not of Clan Wolf?†Midnight asked his intrigue growing the Clansmen had distinct speech speeking properly with little accent, hers was strong almost Germanic in origin.
“Neg†she answered keeping her head down away from him, she‘d appear subservient if need be perhaps she could turn him to her thinking, ever the manipulator even as a slave Katrina would survive.
“Lyran?â€
“Aff†she said still giving one word answers showing him what he wanted a broken woman.
“How did you become a Clan Wolf warrior?â€
“I was captured years ago, they made me their slave and then a warrior and soon I will breed another one of their kin into the world.â€
“You’re with child?â€
“Aff, I was raped by a Clan warrior, I will soon have his bastard child.†She said showing her vulnerability as a slave her child would likely not survive or be taken from her. And Katrina would not allow that to happen she was stronger physically and mentally and would never allow that to happen.
“And the father?â€
“Dead, I killed him the day after he attacked me.†She'd lied about Vlad's death but how was a pirate ever going to find out how a Wolf Khan died, or her exact relationship with him.
“I want you…†Midnight suddenly said the woman looked up at him, surprised he was so forward “…to come with me, we should check your condition, and the childs, and I want to talk to you more. Would you like that?â€
“Yes†she answered
“What is your name?†Midnight asked rising to his feet.
“Katrina†she answered
“Welcome to the Extractors Katrina†he said guiding her from the bay. Suddenly the slave had become a woman again; someone with power as she followed Midnight from the bay Katrina tried to keep a smile from her face.
Federated Suns Raid
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
19th October 3080
With the barest amount of evidence, and overwhelming pressure from the Capellan March, to do something regarding the constant raids against the region and the rising cost in lives and C-Bills. Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner agrees to sanction a raid by Federated Suns Naval and Ground troops, supported by mercenary forces, against Sian, the capital of the Capellan Confederation. The raid is not intended to capture the Capellan capital instead send a clear message to the rogue nation, continued attacks will result in the destructiong of the Capellan Nation. There were still enough people arrive to remember the Fourth Succession War.
From known pirate points within Sian system six AFFS WarShips including the FSS William Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser, the FSS Jason Hasek and FSS Damien Hasek, both Congress Block II-class Frigates, the FSS New Avalon, a Whirlwind-class Destroyer, the FSS New Syrtis, a Fox-class Corvette, and the FSS Kathil, a Hound-class Corvette. Supporting these ships were dozens of Assault DropShips including Overlord A3s, Excalibur Pocket WarShips, Arondight Pocket WarShips and two brand-new Conquistador Blockade Runners. Immediately after securing the entry point the ground forces began to arrive.
Arriving behind this huge assault fleet a massive amount of forces including the Fourth New Avalon Guards, the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry RCT, the First Kathil Uhlans, the Second Davion Guards RCT and three Rabid Fox teams arrived. Supporting these House units were the Clinton’s Cutthroats Mercenary Regiment, the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment, the Medusans Mercenary Fleet and the Vanguard Legion.
Against them defending the Sian system were the Capellan WarShips CCSS Tikonov and CCSS Sian, both Tikonov-class Carriers with the CCSS Naomi Centrella and CCSS Sun-Tzu Liao two upgraded Feng Huang-class Cruiser/Carriers in support along with hundreds of aerospace fighters.
The two massive fleets met just outside the orbit of Sian with massive fire works the Capellan Confederation’s massed aerospace fighters charging in against the Davion WarShips as they moved steadily toward Sian. Unfortunately for the Davion force which relied heavily on Capital and Sub-capital missiles for firepower. Much of their massed missile fire was being cut down or degraded by the Capellan WarShips point defence and fighters which allowed the Capellan WarShips to close on the Davion WarShips. The Federated Suns superior numbers allowed the FSS New Avalon, FSS Jason Hasek and FSS Kathil to push through to the planet escorting the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry, the Vanguard Legion, the Second Davion Guards RCT and the Rabid Fox contingent.
In the main engagement Capellan fighters caused extreme damage to the FSS New Syrtis knocking out the Fox-class Corvettes engines and holing almost every deck causing the crew to abandon ship. As the Medusans tried to draw fire for the AFFS SAR Teams the Basilisk Squadron was caught in a murderous cross fire of the Naomi Centrella and Sun-Tzu Liao causing the destruction of four of the Squadron’s DropShips. The Wild Geese though not equipped for Naval Combat pushed into the gap assaulting the Naomi Centrella first with DropShip fire then with two companies of Battle Armour deployed as the DropShips made strafing runs. This brave act caused the destruction of two Wild Geese DropShips and their remaining cargos severely depleting the Ironhorse Squadron of the Wild Geese.
With the Naomi Centrella pulling out of formation as internal fighting ripped the ship apart this opened a hole in the Capellan formation allowing the William Davion and Damien Hasek to commit to the gap along with the remains of their ground forces. The Capellan WarShips unable to stop this haemorrhage in their lines withdrew to a safe distance as their fighters re-armed and the fighting continued on the Naomi Centrella.
Ahead closer to Sian the ground forces of the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry, Vanguard Legion and the Second Davion Guards RCT were beginning their landings however the Capellans had another surprise for them. As well as hundreds of aerospace fighters the Castle Brian-like structure on the Wuhan Island Continent which was the Federated Suns target had been secretly fitted with an armament of Naval grade Lasers. As DropShips dropped through the atmosphere the lasers opened fire, but the gunners did not choose the DropShips as their target instead lighting up the FSS Kathil which had launched them. The Hound-class Corvette’s armour boiled and was penetrated by the fire, the lasers burning from one bulkhead to the other stem-to-stern.
Seeing this destruction first hand the FSS New Avalon and FSS Jason Hasek turned their guns on the surface capital laser, autocannon, gauss rifle and missile rained down on the structure for nearly ten minutes as the WarShips fired until their reserves were empty. On the ground the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry, Vanguard Legion and Second Davion assaulted Guangxi and Beilin two cities to the east and south of the Forbidden City. In Guangxi the Second Davion Guards came up against the Holdfast Guard while in Beilin the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry and Vanguard Legion came across the Prefectorate Guard. The fighting was brutal in Guangxi the Holdfast Guard were driven back from the city but fighting continued in Beilin until further reinforcements arrived from the second wave. Rabid Fox teams landed on and near the Castle Brian-like structure on South Home Island silently disabling the facilities defences without killing anyone and without a single loss. From the Summer Palace, and current residence of Chancellor Naomi Centrella the Centrella Black Guard Regiment and began to push towards the Forbidden City to reinforce its defences.
In space a second naval battle erupted as the Sun-Tzu Liao, Sian and Tikonov re-engaged the William Davion, Damien Hasek, Jason Hasek and New Avalon. In the meantime the remaining AFFS/Mercenary ground forces made landings onto Sian. The Fourth New Avalon Guards under the command of Colonel Ross McKinnon landed directly on top of the Centrella Black Guards as they advanced north. The First Kathil Uhlans, Clinton’s Cutthroats and remaining Wild Geese ground forces landed at Guanxi and Beilin. With Guangxi secured already the under strength Wild Geese were relegated to defence duty as the rest pushed forwards towards the Forbidden City. With fighting continuing in Beilin the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry and Vanguard Legion were also left behind as the Second Davion Guards and the First Kathil Uhlans supported by the Clinton’s Cutthroats attacked the Forbidden City.
As they approached the city a Conquistador-class Blockade Runner dived through the atmosphere and strafed the cities walls with its Sub-capital cannons tearing multiple holes in the defences. These were filled by the troops of the Red Lancers Regiment sworn to defend the Capellan capital. As the Cutthroats and Davion Guard troops engaged the Red Lancers the Kathil Uhlans engaged the cities defences at the gates.
In the dead space between the Summer Palace and the Forbidden City the fighting continued between the Fourth New Avalon Guards and the Centrella Black Guards until the Capellan Confederation resorted to using tactical nuclear weapons on the battlefield. Both the Centrella Black Guards and the Fourth New Avalon Guards were mostly wiped out in the attack with stragglers from both units moving away back to bases. Both the Centrella Black Guards commander and Ross McKinnon commander of the Fourth New Avalon Guards were killed in the attack. AFFS commanders Captains Damien Redburn, commander of Delta Company, and David McKinnon, commander of the Fox’s Teeth pulled their remaining forces back.
With this act the battle of Sian is largely over the Federated Suns have seen how far the Capellans would be willing to go and all their forces begin to withdraw to DropShips in Guanxi and Beilin. The First Kathil Uhlans eager to prove a point however charge the main gates of the Forbidden City breaking the gates a company made up almost exclusively of Templar and Stealth OmniMechs breach the gates of the city proving it can be done. Not a single Mech fires a weapon into the city they just turn instead they turned around and began to retreat their point proven.
Two hours later Federated Suns forces began retreating from the planet the naval battle still continuing. Under naval escort the AFFS forces begin a general retreat from the scene. As the Wild Geese re-enter orbit they receive messages from their Battle Armour force the Naomi Centrella is disabled but they cannot capture the ship, instead they have appropriated enough Small Craft and evacuated the vessel rejoining the rest of the commands, as they reach the command the Naomi Centrella explodes as charges set by the Battle Armour troopers explode. Both the Sian and Tikonov remained at distance with the AFFS forces as the Sun-Tzu Liao continued to snipe at the AFFS WarShips as they fell back and jumped back out of the system.
Capellan Confederation immediately calls for action by the Star League Advisory Council and SLDF armed forces following the blatant attempt by the AFFS to decapitate the nation. Star League begin an official investigation into the Capellan March and Sian attacks.
Border Clash
Occupied Worlds
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns Border
22nd October 3080
Unhappy at the Star League’s lack of immediate action following the Sian attack the Capellan Confederation attack Alcol, Kansu, Buchlau, Aldebaran, Halloran V and Jacson with all six of the Warrior House Battalions. At the same time the Magistracy of Canopus based Ebon Magistrate assault the Federated Suns world of Lee. The worlds of Alcol, Kansu and Aldebaran all fall almost without a fight, the world of Halloran V with it’s defences augmented by the First Kestrel Grenadiers Regiment fend off Warrior House Doru while the world of Jacson experiences a population rebellion which forces its AFFS/mercenary occupies off world.
The Ebon Magistrate Attack on Lee led by their new Ebony BattleMechs and stealth equipped Battle Armour is thrown off by AFFS and mercenary forces belonging to the Lexington Combat Group Mercenary Brigade.
Border Skirmish
Altair, Dieron Military District
Draconis Combine
23rd October 3080
Intent on ensuring the Draconis Combine feels as much pain as the Lyran Commonwealth the Second Skye Jaegers Regiment supported by the First Isle of Skye Training Battalion capture Altair from DCMS forces. In taking Altair they threaten Dieron like the Draconis Combine has threatened Skye and capture the on planet DropShip and aerospace fighter production lines. Lyran WarShips engage Draconis Combine vessels in orbit of the world before ground forces land on the plant.
Classified Testing Grounds
Achernar BattleMech Test Site, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th October 3080
After nearly three years testing and retesting Achernar BattleMechs have struggled and failed to create an OmniMech on a Quad-chassis. Unwilling to admit defeat for her company Countess Rodina Achernar uses her contacts within the Davion Royal court and in-turn those with Clan Nova Cat. Within a week a Nova Cat-built Stone Rhino Quad-OmniMech was on Defiance along with a maintenance team. With less than two weeks work the Nova Cat engineers help Achernar push through the first tests of the new Trachazoi Medium OmniMech, which has been named for a creature of the Federated Suns Outback Region. AFFS evaluators at the test are impressed by the design and note that the forty-five ton machine uses its space and chassis very well the AFFS put a generous order into Achernar for the OmniMech and immediately the unit begins to be shipped to various units for field trials. Included in these deployments is one Trachazoi sent to the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment, as a long term AFFS Contractor a logical choice for a field test. Countess Achernar not one to forget those who had helped her send one Trachazoi to the Nova Cat base on New Avalon as payment for their help in getting the Mech into the field.
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New OmniMech in its glory
http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/tch-01-trachazoi/ (http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/tch-01-trachazoi/)
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Hooper Morison’s “Royal†Residence
Pain, Periphery
4th November 3080
“Remember what I said he will try and humiliate you, hurt you, but do not bite at his attacks. If we can convince him that you are useless to him Hooper will leave you to me.†Midnight Stroud said quietly as he and Katrina Wolf approached the main audience chamber of Hooper Morrison.
Entering the room she saw a large very well decorated room that was almost out of place on the harsh and near barren world named Pain. As she moved fully into the room however she heard and saw a large group of people sitting in a gallery of seats beside Hooper Morrison’s self styled throne bigger than those on both New Avalon and Tharkad Hooper Morrison sat on the chair covered in large robes in his hand was a golden sceptre and she could just make out a golden crown tattooed on his cheek. In front of the throne were two crosses one the traditional upright cross used in biblical myth the other on its side forming an “X†on both crosses were the naked victims Hooper Morrison was tormenting. People from the Gallery shouted insults and threw rotten food at the crosses while masked men whipped the two men on the crosses.
“Ah my friend Midnight, what are you doing here?â€
“I was summoned†Midnight said quietly subserviently
“Ah yes, I remember now, and what is this with you?â€
“My personal slave†Midnight said “a Wolf warrior I captured in combat, she has sworn herself to me.â€
“That is my choice. Step forward my dear.†Hooper said looking her over Katrina was cleaner than she’d been on Midnight’s DropShip when he first found her but she still looked horrible. “Disrobe for me.†Hooper commanded Katrina did not hesitate removing what little garments she had on revealing her slight baby bump.
“Pregnant? Midnight I know this cannot be your child?â€
“A Wolf’s child, I have claimed it as my own, I will continue my line in this child.â€
“Again my choice, my dear dance for these men they do not have long to live. Give them at least a little pleasure before they die.†Katherine began to dance, badly, around the two crosses playing the dumb Clan warrior unable to grasp normal things. After a few minutes of the dance two shots rang out Katrina froze but the shots had not been for her. Sitting on his throne Hooper Morrison had shot both of the men. “It was their time. I know your face Wolf, I do not know how but I know you.†Hooper said Katrina remained silent Hooper turned to Midnight “you can have her, my friend she is no use to me.†Hooper said waving his hand Midnight bowed slightly turned to Katrina and nodded to her clothes than began to walk away as Katrina picked up her clothes she was hit by several pieces of rotten foods. She’d survived her first Trial with the Pirates.
Trempealeau Residence
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
16th November 3080
Four days before the FSS Alexander Davion, the Davion Block III-class Destroyer that served as the AFFS Flagship, had arrived in the Filtvelt system. From the jump point it had been met by and escorted to Filtvelt by an armada of six DropShips and two wings of aerospace fighters along with several shuttles. From orbit a single Excalibur-class DropShip had descended to the surface covered from space by the Alexander Davion’s guns. On the ground a motorcade escorted by several First Davion Guards OmniMechs had moved through Filtvelt’s capital to Marquees Helen Trempealeau’s official residence. Along the whole route hundreds of people had come out to watch the passing convoy, some were even cheering. There the motorcade’s single occupant had been greeted by a single maid and led to a comfortable sitting room he’d been asked to sit on a comfortable chair in front of a roaring fire. There he waited almost five minutes before Marquees Trempealeau arrived. As a gentleman he rose to his feet when she and her two beagle dogs entered the room. “Marquees†he said bowing slightly.
“Sire, it is me who should bow, welcome to Filtvelt First Prince Davion, it has been a long time.†She said returning his formal bow and going slightly further.
“Ten years†he answered.
“Ten long years.†She repeated
“You have done much.â€
“We haven’t done enough.†She answered him “I assume you have come to collect on your bargain?â€
“I did, now seeing what I see, I am not sure.†He said quietly
“Please take a seat.†She said perching on the chair opposite him “how can I be of service sire.†She said it was obvious to him that she still considered the First Prince of New Avalon to be her liege lord. But the things Victor had seen coming here and the things he knew she was as much a leader as any other.
“I came here with a plan to return your Coalition to the fold of the Federated Suns before further worlds join your cause.â€
“We have not actively encouraged worlds to leave the Federated Suns.â€
“No but the choice to run your own future is attractive.†Victor said quietly “I did not come here and expect to see the city in this condition.†He said impressed with what he had seen “soon your world will be as populated and advanced as any in the Inner Sphere New Avalon included.â€
“We have been lucky just as the Federated Suns has we have found an advanced ally willing to share its knowledge and resources in exchange for our natural resources. It is a good deal for my nation and has benefited our peoples greatly. Soon we will have a Grade A university on all our worlds we already have enough schools for Primary and High Schooling for every child and more educators move here every year.â€
“I have read the information, the Nova Cats have done well by your nation, and as I understand it have bases on every one of your worlds.â€
“What of it? Most of them are civilians miners, technicians and scientists most of my people haven’t even seen a warrior. We have them under control for now we use them as they use us.â€
“As long as you know that and continue to keep an eye on it. For if I was to make the decision I am considering I would not want a potential hostile force able to base forces from your nation’s worlds.â€
“No nation that would threaten the Federated Suns would live on my planet willingly. We monitor them always and will protect the people of the Federated Suns until our last breath.†She said with much conviction.
“And I believe what you say.†Victor said looking into the fire “you know the Nova Cats believe in visions; some say they see these in fires. I am not a believer in this but I see something in your fire marquees.†He said turning to the Filtvelt leader “if we war over your nation’s status both the Federated Suns and the Coalition will suffer greatly. However I sense that you still hold strong ties to the Federated Suns, and hold respect for my House and my world.†She nodded “I would also think from the crowds I saw coming here that many of your people feel the same way?†She nodded again “So I cannot just watch what you have accomplished be wiped away into the Crucis March despite what the High Command and Noble court would want.†He said glancing back into the fire “so instead tomorrow at our press conference I will recognize the Filtvelt Coalition as a nation of its own and my intention to open a diplomatic embassy on this world if you would allow it?â€
“Of course, I would†she said “why?â€
“I am impressed with what you have done here and your nation makes a nice cushion between us and the Nova Cat’s space.†He said smiling slightly “how about it Marquees? Strike another bargain with the Federated Suns’ First Prince.â€
“I think I could do that†she answered.
The next day the two of them attended a press conference and the Filtvelt Coalition was officially recognized by the Federated Suns as a periphery nation with full diplomatic ties to the Federated Suns. The construction of an Embassy building and the assignment of an ambassador would happen shortly. First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion said that the Coalition deserved its independence and its right to rule its own affairs without New Avalon breathing down its neck but said that independence was not the right path for all worlds. Shortly after this he left the world returning to his WarShip and leaving the Coalition several hours later.
Within days of the announcement of a permanent free Filtvelt Coalition the worlds of Ebro, Sherwood and Brockton all hold independence rallies and votes. All three worlds which have for years received the smallest portion of Federated Suns aid packages and funding vote overwhelmingly to join the growing Filtvelt Coalition. On New Avalon with Victor still travelling between the stars many question the First Prince’s wisdom in making this choice.
SLDF Intervention
Rigil Kentarus, Caph
Lyran Commonwealth/Draconis Combine
22nd November 3080
With Skye calling for assistance and with information leaked from the Draconis Combine suggesting they too wanted an end to the hostilities First Lord Jeremy Brett authorizes Commanding-General Archer Christifori to take any and all necessary steps to bring both nations to the talks table. After meeting with his commanders Archer makes a simple brutal show of force that gets both nations attention. On the morning of the 22nd November the four active WarShips of the Second Naval Squadron left Star League space with each carrying a brigade’s worth of troops.
The SLS Invincible, the Star League’s Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser, and the SLS Liberty, one of the Vincent Pocket Carriers entered the Rigil Kentarus system with the Third Division’s Fourth Regiment, the 789th Striker Regimental Brigade. In the system the WarShips informed Draconis Combine and Lyran Commonwealth units in system that any unit firing on the planet when the SLDF arrived would be considered hostile and would be fired upon. Four days later when the 789th landed they found the fighting had drawn to a near stand-still, covered by the Liberty’s fighters the 789th created a buffer zone between the two biggest bases of Lyran and Combine troops and informed both sides the SLDF was going to remain on the planet until the fighting stopped between both nations.
At the same time the SLS Helm, the Venturer-class Light Cruiser, and the SLS Covenant, the Commanding-General’s own escort Covenant-class Cruiser, entered the Caph system. The battered world of Caph had once again been beaten in this border skirmish. The Twenty-First Rim Worlds Brigade of the Star League’s Third Division were ready to answer the Commanding-General’s call and in spectacular faction. Orbital Dropping a battalion into each nation’s primary base and targeting command bunkers from orbit the Twenty-first ordered both sides to stand down. The Third Battalion and the Brigade’s support regiments occupied the planetary capital Brunal. The plan worked spectacularly well for a start with the Lyran Commonwealth loyal irregular forces standing down immediately turning over their arms however the Fortieth Dieron Regulars Regiment refused and instead engaged the Star League Battalion. While they did warriors attempted to start up the rest of the Regiment’s equipment over a battalion of Combine troops, including the Regiment’s commander, died in the next minutes as the Twenty-first engaged anything that moved. At the same time the Twenty-First Avatars Assault Regiment and the Ninth Royal Battle Armour Battalion closed around the Fortieth Dieron. For the next three hours the Fourth attempted to beak out however they ended up broken at every attempt and the regiment was destroyed. With the end of the fighting Caph was in Star League hands. As a bonus for the SLDF unit during the fighting the Combine unit’s brand-new Teppo Support and command unit was captured intact and taken as a spoil of war, the vehicle had specifically been sent to the Fourth Dieron to support fighting against the Lyran Commonwealth and was full of DCMS intelligence.
Both Lyran Commonwealth and Draconis Combine complained to the SLDF High Command about the move however Commanding-General Archer Christifori reminded them that the SLDF answered to the First Lord who had been elected by the Succession States of the Inner Sphere. They also had a duty to end fighting between nations of the Star League which was intended by the move both DCMS and LCAF representatives agreed to meet on Lyon soon after the battles.
AFFS Quatermasters Office
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th November 3080
“My contract clearly states that any successful mission it leads for the AFFS we are entitled to our full Regiment’s worth of salvage and a percentage of all salvage taken from the operation.†Brigadier General Alisande Faulkner said loudly speaking to the AFFS Chief Quartermaster Marshal Felix Berry.
“Every SUCCESSFUL raid Brigadier, it has yet be determined if Sian was a success. We lost two WarShips in that raid and we have not gained a single piece of territory in fact we have lost six worlds.â€
“Marshal, I don’t care if the Federated Suns has lost two dozen worlds I lost half my command in that raid. We were ordered from our garrison on Alta Vista to join that fight.â€
“As per your contract I believe you are expected to go wherever you are requested.â€
“Not for suicide missions.â€
“Hardly a suicide mission you returned.†The Marshal said
“However you want to categorize it, we were successful, and the raids on the Capellan March have stopped. I want my salvage entitlement.â€
“Your unit’s salvage, if any, will be determined after all house units are rearmed and have pick over their salvage.â€
“And when will that be?â€
“Following an inventory of all salvage taken from the world.†He said flicking through three pieces of paper “I’d say no more than six weeks.â€
“Six weeks? I could buy Mechs and equipment in the Lyran Commonwealth and have them shipped to Alta Vista quicker.â€
“Perhaps if you think that is prudent, it is your right.â€
“You insufferable man!!†She screamed turning marching straight out of the room.
“And a good day to you, Brigadier.†the Marshal answered calmly to her back. Within the hour the Brigadier and the rest of what remained of the Wild Geese were burning back to the jump point and away from New Avalon.
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Burn out, DropShip Shadow of Midnight
Timbuktu system, Timbuktu Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
10th December 3080
Lounging on one of the many couches that decorated Midnight Stroud’s DropShip the Shadow of Midnight Katrina Wolf looked at her protector and commander. They’d just completed a very valuable raid against the Lyran Commonwealth world of Timbuktu and now were returning to Pain almost a two week round trip.
“You know he’ll kill either you and claim me as his own, or kill me to hurt you and remind you who is in charge.â€
“You have a very elevated look at yourself for someone who used to be a slave and for someone with a bastard clanner in her stomach.†In public they of course claimed Katrina’s child was his, but in private he always cut to the bone with her.
“Perhaps it did not fully express who this child’s father is or who I am.â€
“What the child is a prince of Clan Wolf and you the Archon of the Wolf Empire?†Midnight asked wondering where she was going with this.
“Perhaps one day.†She said smiling “Hooper claimed he knew me when we first met, perhaps he‘d seen me on a Tri-vid or something?â€
“Mistaken identity†Midnight said quietly
“Or perhaps I am exactly what you thought when you first saw me in that cargo bay.â€
“The double of a Lyran noble, with a body to match, at least a little while ago.â€
“Not quite double more like dispossessed.†She said raising her feet off the couch “my real name is Katherine Morgan Steiner-Davion, dispossessed Archon of the Lyran Commonwealth. Taken from Tharkad by Khan Vlad Ward when I lost control over my nation. The child is that of the former Wolf Khans.†She said quietly “so you see I am not just any clan warrior nor is this child. I spoke with other Wolf even Jade Falcon warriors the Extractors have captured all are willing to follow me, the Lyrans within your ranks would follow suit if they knew who I was.â€
“And what difference does it make, Katrina?†He asked continuing to use her chosen name “you’d be a bit part princess of a nation comprised of two worlds with not much prospects for the future.â€
“What if we had ambition, drive and a target?â€
“Like?â€
“Morrison is focussed on Rack and Pain, they are his life blood, but they are killing the Extractors. We take the unit from these worlds to that of Cirincus or even worlds in the Free Worlds League; from there we can form a new nation using our strength and power to show the people of the Inner Sphere that they should have wiped out the Extractors and Katrina Wolf when they had the chance.â€
“A life without Morrison.†Midnight pondered just that alone may be better.
“Yes, he’d have to be eliminated.†Katrina coaxed “then you me and our child will rule the Extractors and put them on a new glorious.â€
“Perhaps, we’ll just have to see what happens back on Pain.†Midnight said quietly pulling him close to her for a savage hungry kiss.
Wild Geese Command Base
Alta Vista, Draconis March
Federated Suns
18th December 3080
Brigadier-General Alisande Faulkner charged down the ramp of her DropShip almost immediately and headed for her nearby command staff “did you get my message?†She asked newly promoted Leftenant-Colonel Sandy Reich commander of the much battered Ironhorse Squadron. With the loss of the Regimental executive officer at Sian he was also filling in much of those duties.
“We did, preparations are already beginning around base.†She answered “you have a visitor General. She’s in your office.â€
“Who?â€
“Wouldn’t say just that it was important to the Wild Geese.â€
“I’ll deal with them; sort out the troops I want off planet in the next three hours. Sandy cut a message through Achernar for Alpha Site tell them we should be expected sooner rather than later.â€
“Already done sent through to both dummy receivers too just in case someone is taking an interest into our communiqués.†He replied
“Good job†Alisande said nodding she passed by all three of them and headed directly for her office in the command building. Sitting at the desk was a non descript woman wearing an all black jumpsuit that was completely devoid of name, insignia or rank her short hair was tied back tightly in military style but not shaved like a MechWarriors. “For someone desperate to speak to me you don’t have much to show for yourself.â€
“For a commander about to abandon the state that has nurtured her command since their inception you don’t seem to be a commander that has thought things through.â€
“The AFFS abandoned my unit when the Quartermaster told me it wouldn’t honour its contract with us and give us the salvage we deserve.â€
“Is this purely what this is about General, Salvage? Surely time served within the Federated Suns is more important. Unless you have another contract in the waiting?â€
“Time served is important, as is our homeland however honouring one’s agreements are just as important, especially when half a Regiment is down for repairs or gone and the AFFS are unwilling to raise a finger to assist for damage they caused. And not that it’s any of your business but no we don’t have another contract.†She said cross the room moving behind the desk.
“Strange that your unit is ready to move away from its post being a mercenary unit without a home would not serve you well. Unless you plan to retreat to a safe havenm perhaps ALPHA SITE.†the woman said in almost a pure whisper. The merest mention of the Wild Geese’s secret base got Alisande’s attention, no-one outside the Wild Geese and their extended support knew about the base or so they had believed. “Don’t worry General though we are aware of your base its exact location continues to elude us, for now anyway.â€
“And what difference is it if you don’t know where it is, knowing the existence of the base is just as bad.â€
“Perhaps the existence of your own little haven would be advantageous to my employer and be of something that could get your command back on good terms with the AFFS.â€
“It wasn’t us that made those bad terms; I don’t understand why we should be the ones to rectify them.â€
“Because you are the player within this nation’s sea of bureaucracy and though I am sure the First Prince would support your units claim to being rebuilt on House budgets, it is getting to him that would be the problem.â€
“So what would our new contract terms be?â€
“Your unit would base itself out of wherever you deemed necessary. You would support the Federated Suns in an unofficial capacity by striking at our enemies and keeping tabs on others such as the Outworlds Alliance, Nova Cat’s Den, Filtvelt Coalition and others. If necessary you would plan and execute raids against these nations to ensure the Federated Suns continued prosperity.â€
“And if we fail we’d be cut loose?â€
“Correct you would just like when the Wild Geese were formed by Ian Davion. You will be our knife in a sword fight. In the meantime your unit will be fully rebuilt on House budget and any salvage you gain through these operations will be your own.â€
“And if I turn down these terms?â€
“Then my organisation will find your ALPHA SITE and bring you whole unit to its knees. The name Wild Geese will mean failure to any who wear an AFFS uniform.â€
“Well you are a breath of fresh air, but at least you are honest by your intentions. Okay the Wild Geese will be your backyard player. We’ll base ourselves from our own base however and we’ll collect our rebuilding materials at places that we determine.â€
“That is your choice Brigadier General.†she said quietly. “to help your unit and seal the deal I have provided your unit with two experimental designs that I believe you should be able to use to their full ability for testing purposes.â€
“Good, I’m sure we’ll speak again then.†Alisande said exiting the officer. About three hours later the Wild Geese left the planet heading for ALPHA SITE.
Morrison’s Throne Room
Pain, Periphery
22nd December 3080
Although Hooper Morrison had suspected that Midnight Stroud would be the one to attempt a mutiny against him even he was surprised at how quickly the blow had come and at how quickly his people had defected. It happened less than an hour after Midnight Stroud and his Wolf whore had landed on the planet. Midnight surrounded by six of his closest had barged into the throne room on Pain and systematically executed all eight of Hooper’s closest aids. Then in front of Hooper all three of Morrison’s personal slaves had been knelt down in front of him and beheaded with a large curved blade. Finally without any ceremony at all Midnight Stroud shot Hooper Morrison in the head with a single shot, a far too quick death for a King.
Midnight Stroud’s Quarters
Pain, Periphery
23rd December 3080
If plans could fall together in a better way then Katrina Wolf had never seen one do so as well as this. Midnight Stroud had killed Hooper Morrison right before her eyes and eliminated every single other rival ensuring that he would be the new Pirate King. Unfortunately he’d overlooked one element - Katrina - pregnant as she may be she may not have looked a rival or something that could cause Midnight problems or someone who could lead a pirate nation however Katrina’s time at the top in the Federated Commonwealth and in Clan Wolf had taught her many things and she wasn’t interested in failing again.
Striking while Midnight Stroud slept she killed him quickly and silently before leaving the bedroom, rallying her former Clan and Lyran supporters within the units on Pain she moved into the central square where Hooper liked to murder his rivals. There surrounded by those who supported her Katrina Wolf spoke to the masses “You may all think that I was but another Wolf prisoner taken by pirates to serve another master but I am no Wolf. My true birth name is Katherine Morgan Steiner-Davion†she could see their shocked faces and realization by many as she spoke “my taken name is Katrina Ward. My child’s father was Vlad Ward leader of Clan Wolf, I was a warrior within their Touman and now I rule here with his son my heir. Any who wants to challenge me is more than welcome to. We all came to this world and to Rack by different means but I think we can do far better, I plan on ensuring all people know my name and my sons name and that they know of the Ward's Hunters. Of you!†She said renaming the entire unit in one swoop. “All slaves on this world are at this point freed from their bonds all warriors are now defenders of our world and our name. We will show all that we will not go quietly into the night that we are going to live on, survive and flourish.†Katrina said to rousing applause even those who had lost control over slave workers seemed happy. As Katrina stepped from the light however she felt faint for a moment then glanced down and watched and felt as her waters broke and she entered labour.
Protected by those around her Katrina gave birth to a son less than six hours later just after midnight on the 25th of December 3080 her son Alexandr Ward was born, her heir and successor.
Selasys Inc Shipyards
Loyalty, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former Free Worlds League
28th December 3080
The small little known mercenary unit Dante’s Detectives take a lucrative Corporate Defence contract on the world of Loyalty headquarters of Selasys Inc, the original creators of the Tramp-class JumpShip of which their own vessel is one of the class. As part of the payment Dante's Detectives vessel the Nero Wolfe enters the Loyalty shipyards for undisclosed modifications.
Star League High Court, Main Hall
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
29th December 3080
At the Star League's High Court the judges of the Star League Defence Force find the Capellan Confederation guilty of the Attacks against the Federated Suns Capellan March with conclusive evidence placed against the Confederation following discovery of the Ebony type of BattleMech being used on raid against LevCar train on Goshen and then again when the Ebon Magistrate assaulted Lee. They also find the Federated Suns counter-strike was over excessive and find that the Federated Suns direct assault against Sian as an assassination attempt against the ruling Capellan family however since the Capellan Confederation has since taken six Federated Suns worlds and all the raids have stopped no further action will be taken against either nation. Neither Successor State is amused by the choice believing that they have been more wronged than the other.
Star League High Court, Main Hall
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
31st December 3080
With fighting continuing both representatives of Draconis Combine and Lyran Commonwealth along with the leaders of the Isle of Skye are summoned to Terra by the SLDF to fix the problem in the disputed region. The Lyran Commonwealth agree end the fighting for lost worlds and the Draconis Combine agree not to push further into Skye space however the Star League also decide to continue to have a heavy presence in the region holding both Rigil Kentarus and Caph. Despite protests, former members of both DCMS and Lyran states now serving the SLDF inform their ex-leaders that the SLDF can only do its job if it is impartial and if this means creating a buffer zone between the two nation states then so be it. In the space of a week the Star League has successfully annoyed four of the Succession States and flexed muscles long thought lost to the League.
And so ends 3080 I hope you enjoyed
Comments questions always welcome
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Bootleg copies of Katrina's dance are available on Rack and Pain, look in the dungeon watch for the gate closing behind you >:D #P
3081
Oriente Protectorate Offensive
Liao Commonality, Capellan Confederation
3rd, 4th, 5th January 3081
With the Capellan Confederation's back turned focused on the Federated Suns the Oriente Protectorate's Armed forces launch an attack on the Liao Commonality of the Capellan Confederation. Led by the Fusiliers of Oriente First and Second Brigade landing on Elnath overwhelming the Capellan Confederation's defenders. The First Oriente Hussars launch an attack on Campertown at almost the same time.
The next day the First Marik Militia and Third Halas Militia attacking Phact and Wazan defeating elements of the Fourth Tau Ceti Rangers and mercenary support on both worlds forcing Capellan survivors back. Finally the third day of hostilities the Eighth Orloff Grenadiers strike at Old Kentucky and Chambo supported by the WarShip Lancelot and the mercenary units Barrett's Fusiliers, Bronson's Hoard and the Rainbow Avengers mercenary unit. The Capellan defenders on Chambo include Harloc's Rangers and Quint's Olympian Groundpounders. Within an hour of the Oriente ground forces landing on Chambo the Capellan WarShip Ion Rush, Impravido-class Destroyer arrived in system to assist them. The Lancelot and the Ion Rush begin a two week long dance around the system as the ground battle continues.
Clan Offensive
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
9th, 10th, 12th January 3081
With the Wolves apparently abandoning all their periphery holdings for worlds closer to Terra Clan Hell's Horses take advantage launching attacks on Alleghe, St John, Rodigo, Lovinac, Kirchbach, Liezen and Outpost. On Outpost with the Wolf refit/shipyard facility are the Hell's Horses forced back with the rest falling to small Trials of Possession.
Federated Boeing Offices, The Tower
Port Simon Shipyards, Galax
Crucis March, Federated Suns
15th January 3081
Out the reinforced windows behind Fleet Admiral Blaine Webster sat open space and his personal WarShip the FSS Pegasus, unique within the Inner Sphere as the only Columbia-class vessel in service anywhere, he’d been her commander since her re-launch a few years before and relished every day he was aboard. When Fleet Admiral Andrea Petain had decided to retire from active service and the High Command had informed Blaine that he would be her replacement he had informed them that her would remain as commander aboard the FSS Pegasus with his official office aboard the vessel although they had balked at the idea for the last year and a half he’d made the plan stick with his XO doing much of the day to day running while he continued fleet matters. He knew that First Prince Victor Davion preferred the symbolic Alexander Davion as his transport and Flagship however the sheer size and strength of the FSS Pegasus kept Blaine continually enthralled. Behind him the doors opened and in entered Duke Aleksandr McCorkendale, CEO of Federated-Boeing of Galax, “Fleet Admiral, welcome back to Galax it is always nice to see the return of the Pegasus. And I‘m sure you are looking forward to the upgrades we have planned.â€
“Of course Duke McCorkendale, thank you for the invite to come aboard. Nothing worse than trying to do your job, while engineers are tinkering. I’ve looked at the upgrades ambitious as they are the Command Suite is particularly interesting as are the anti-missile batteries completely automated and laser based very impressive.â€
“Completely without ammunition, we’re significantly upgrading the heat dispensation system as well nearly doubling its size hopefully you can do without the extra cargo space. However, I’m that wasn’t the only reason I asked you to come aboard.â€
“I though it came as a bit of a surprise, you‘re normally planet based.â€
“Well the information we have came as a bit of a surprise to us as well please take a seat.†He said indicating to one of the couches The Floating Tower, or Tower, was the biggest free floating structure in the Inner Sphere outside the Gulf Breeze habitat in the Lyran Commonwealth and so had about twenty Gravity Decks allowing for nearly 1G of perfect gravity. For a career “spacer†like Blaine it always felt strange to have gravity without thrust despite this he concentrated on the Duke. “As you are aware we have been charged with analysing the data banks from the Robinson that the DMI recovered recently.†Blaine nodded and noticed the Duke avoided saying where the ship was recovered and where it presently was.
“I am aware and I believe that the Command facility the ship is berthed at has had promising results.â€
“It has indeed Duke, both there and here are preparing for production of the vessel though we’d be surprised to have a working prototype before 3090 maybe later.â€
“Old news Duke, I’ve read your status updates.â€
“One thing that wasn’t on the update, Admiral was our most recent discovery. Tell me Admiral have you ever heard of the New Syrtis Fighter Cruiser?â€
“Vaguely was around at the same time as the Robinson, eventually ended up across the Federated Suns and the Star League had three I believe. The design died out early in the Succession Wars with most other WarShips. We’ve never been able to recover the design.â€
“Until now, we’ve found enough schematic data to fill in the rest of the blanks ourselves. Though I cannot say the ship is one hundred percent the same as the original but we believe it is a workable design to make a prototype and maybe take to full production as an escort for the Columbia and First Prince classes. Unfortunately neither here nor Command has space for another design in production already the Robinson will take up multiple bays and other designs are already pencilled in for production.â€
“Send the designs to New Syrtis.†Blaine said after a moment, “They know we have recovered a Robinson they can put the pieces together and work on a prototype for the New Syrtis and figure out if your ideas are sound and workable.â€
“And if they ask where the schematics originated?â€
“Tell them as much as possible without compromising the DMI or Command. Work this as a Galax idea you cannot take forward. New Syrtis is possible better placed to progress, especially since they produced the ship originally. And hopefully the Robinson will support our ground forces as the New Syrtis supports our fleet.â€
“We also found something else†Aleksandr said quietly “references to the Golden Lion.â€
“If this room is not secure then say nothing else, however I want research into that subject researched fully.†The Fleet Admiral said immediately cutting off the duke, who immediately became silent, having another relic brought back up would be the cherry on the cake.
Capellan Confederation Counter Attack
Oriente Protectorate Borders
20th January 3081
Under orders from Chancellor Naomi Centrella to remove all Oriente troops from her realm the First Capellan Defence Force leads a five regiment strong force against the Oriente invaders. The First Capellan Defence Force itself supported by the Ambermarie's Highlanders hit Elnath countering the Oriente Fusiliers in a six day long campaign of assaults. Both regiments are left heavily battered however the Second Oriente Fusiliers are all but destroyed.
A day after landings on Elnath Syn's Hussars lands on Chambo to assist elements of Harloc's Rangers on the world against the Oriente Marik Militia troops. With the Lancelot and Ion Rush still engaging in long range skirmishes the command loses a DropShip en-route however lands on planet and by end of January it is back in Capellan hands.
On the same day the Centrella Rangers land on Campertown and retake the world from Oriente troop elements before jumping to Harsefeld in the Oriente Protectorate seizing the world from local militia troops within sixteen hours. On their landing the Capellan troops escort craft a pair of newly finished Lung Wang Predator refit Assault DropShips use their Sub-capital Lasers to raze the HPG and about five blocks of the capital city from orbit ensuring no message makes it off the planet.
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Clan Wolf Offensive
Arcturus Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd February 3081
Pushed on by their new Khan to expand their boreders deeper into the Inner Sphere Clan Wolf launches a new set of assaults against the Lyran Commonwealth. Intent on overhauling the Ghost Bears in the race to Terra, despite the Warden Clans assurance it had no intentions on pushing onto Terra.
Landing in early February Clan Wolf’s Tenth Wolf Guard Striker Cluster lands on Crimond facing off against Snord’s Irregulars Mercenary Command and the First Coventry Jaegers. Feeling that “Clan Snord†and their Irregulars would not fold the Elite Wolf formation instead drops directly on top of the Coventry Jaegers Command facility costing them nearly a Trinary in a risky Hover-drop manoeuvre but costing the LCAF unit its entire command captured or killed. With the line house unit routed fully and the arrival of a Clan Wolf WarShip, the Trailblazer, in system Colonel Natasha Snord commander of the Irregulars agreed with Star Colonel Dale Carns to an honour trial for the right of Safcon for her unit and what remained of the Coventry Jaegers.
In a tight battle the Second Battalion of Snord’s Irregulars were defeated and subsequently taken as Isorla by the Wolf forces however Natasha Snord, the rest of her unit and the Jaegers were allowed to leave the planet by the Wolf Commander as conditions had been met by the mercenary unit.
Clan Wolf Offensive, Borghese
Arcturus Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd February 3081
Continuing the Clan Wolf offensive the Second Wolf Assault Cluster and the Thirteenth Battle Cluster of the Wolves Beta Galaxy assaulted Borghese. Defending the world were the Northwind Renegades Regiment commanded by Colonel Jeremiah Rose and the Grave’s Dancers Mercenary Command barely a battalion of troops hired by the locals to defend their world. On a planet with such little landmass it made for some close quarters living as Jeremiah Rose found himself back on the planet that made the Black Thorns, their first contract had been here and had turned bad.
Since then however Colonel Jeremiah Rose had returned to the Northwind Highlanders and had built his unit specifically to fight against the Clans built more like a ComStar unit than a regular mercenary unit each company had eighteen units, three full companies per battalion and four Battalions with a full aerospace unit to support them.
When the Clans landed Jeremiah took his first Battalion, packed with his best troops straight into the gauntlet of the Thirteenth Battle Cluster. In less than four hours the Clan Wolf unit was routed proving the might of Rose’s Renegades and making the Clans take the “mear†mercenary force seriously. Turning on the Second Wolf Assault Cluster this was more of a challenge and Rose’s command took a beating as they held out for the remainder of the unit to get into position. Grave’s Dancers arrived moments before the Highlanders were ready to move and forced the Renegades to move before they were ready. This caused more damage to the two mercenary units than may have otherwise been sustained though the Grave’s Dancers were happy they were seen as heroes to the local population as the Lyran Government hired Renegades were seen as necessary evils for defence, the Dancers were for the local people. Which the unit was happy to take and Jeremiah Rose for the most part was happy to let them have.
Clan Wolf Offensive
Arcturus Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
5th February 3081
The Assault on the Theatre Capital and former capital world of the entire Lyran Commonwealth did not get off to a good start. Two DropShips were destroyed and all the Wolf JumpShips were captured by the LCS Arthur Steiner-Davion, a Lyran Fox-class Corvette, that entered the system less than ten minutes after the Wolf invasion force. Instead of pressing the advantage however the Lyran commander informed the ground troops of what his ship had done and what was en-route to planet instead of giving chase against the stranded Wolf ground forces.
Thrown off their game by the WarShip attack the two Clan Clusters pushed on knowing that the Lyrans would not bombard them from space. If they could make landing on the planet then they could call for WarShip back-up and eliminate all Lyran opposition in the system. Unfortunately they did not bank on the Seventeenth and Twentieth Arcturan Guards RCTs being ready for them. Once within the gravity well of the planet’s moon both aerospace wings from the two ground units struck supported by two Aurora-class Gunship DropShips three Clan Wolf DropShips were destroyed before the Lyran aerospace units retreated effectively destroying the Eighth Battle Cluster. Landing on open fields several kilometres from the capital the remaining Wolf Ground forces were rapidly surrounded and forced to capitulate or were destroyed.
Quickly forming a plan General Aiden Gray loaded two of his BattleMech Battalions on the two surviving DropShips and launched back into space back towards the LCS Arthur Steiner-Davion and its captured JumpShips. Days later convincing the Arthur’s commander that it was a good idea Aiden Gray took his two Battalions in one of the captured Wolf JumpShips behind Wolf lines and launched an audacious strike at Blue Diamond.
Lyran Commonwealth Counter-Strike
Blue Diamond, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
10th February 3081
Behind enemy lines without any support using captured a captured JumpShip and two captured Clan Wolf Overlord-C DropShips two Battalions of the Twentieth Arcturan Guards led by General Aiden Gray launched a strike against Clan Wolf’s unit on Blue Diamond.
In no mood for pleasantries or attempted Trials the Lyran unit immediately went on the strike using their superior size and surprise to take the First Wolf Lancers Cluster by complete surprise. By early morning of the Tenth the unit had secured the Spaceport and the planetary capital’s HPG transmitted. Beaming a message to Arcturus they called in support from the LCS Arthur Steiner-Davion cutting off any means of escape for the Wolf Lancers.
A further three days of fighting ensued as further elements of the Twentieth Arcturan arrived with the Arthur Steiner-Davion. Outnumbered, out moved and out gunned the remains of the Wolf Lancers surrendered to the Lyran regiment, nearly a full Trinary of fully operational front-line Mechs including a brand-new prototype Night Wolf Assault BattleMech.
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The rest of February
Stab in the Dark, Fortress-class DropShip
Astruias, Former Nueva Castile
Deep Periphery
12th February 3081
She was still unsure at how she’d exactly done it but Katrina Ward, Queen of Ward’s Hunters, had convinced her band to turn their attention away from the Inner Sphere and at the former-Nueva Castile worlds in the deep periphery. The main reason behind that had been her knowledge that former Clan Ice Hellion members were still there eking out an existence. Entering the system in a single Invader-class JumpShip the Captain had almost immediately screamed. There in the system sitting idly at the Nadir Jump Point was a Lola III-class Destroyer a six hundred-and-eighty thousand ton WarShip, a pure killing machine. One barrage from any of its weapon ports would have cracked their JumpShip’s back and there was no escape with no Lithium-Fusion Battery their JumpShip was very much stuck in the system for several more hours. Katrina Ward had calmly walked over to the communications system and opened a broad-beam communication channel ensuring all local forces received her loud and clear.
“This is Katrina Ward, commander of the merchant vessel Gatherer, we bring welcomes and wares from the Hanseatic Isles. We request permission to make a show of our goods.â€
“WarShip Impaler, contacting Gatherer, you are three days late for this supply run.†A male voice said from the Lola, Katrina’s gamble that the two distant periphery nations traded with each other despite the Ice Hellion element in the Nueva Castile.
“Clan involvement, they tried to board us in a system just beyond Clan Wolf occupied space.†She gambled, there were plenty Clan forces travelling through the region.
“Impaler, Gatherer, you understand that any vessel with Clan problems has to dock with Impaler and allow for a full search before it is able to head in system? Refusal to allow for boarding parties to search will result in the seizure or destruction of your vessels.†As the threat was made Katrina could only smile, they’d done exactly what she wanted.
“Of course, my people with be more than happy to allow your men and women aboard to search my vessel. They can buy something while they are aboard.â€
“This is an inspection, Gatherer come alongside our vessel we will extend a secure link to our main cargo bay.â€
“Of course, Gatherer Out.†Katrina said killing the link before opening up her internal communications channel “All boarding parties, they have taken the bait. Anti-armour weapons first take out any Elementals they have. Everyone else secure our beachhead.†She said again cutting the channel she turned to the captain “break us from the JumpShip set us on the course they direct and get us in position.†He quickly nodded and Katrina headed for the exit.
“She’s insane†one whispered “going up against the Clans we’re so dead.â€
“We did it at Star’s End under Stroud.â€
“Yeah and she killed him too.â€
“She knows what she’s doing.â€
“You two shut up get us in position†the Captain almost yelled. The DropShip Stab in the Dark/Gatherer moved slowly alongside the huge Lola III, at a distance the destroyer had been impressive up close it was even more so. The Impaler extended a secure docking way from its cargo bay, it was not strong enough to carry a vessel through an Interstellar Jump but it was the best way to transfer cargo otherwise it would take days with small craft.
There was a gentle bump and a siren as the two ships fixed to each other hanging in space. Air rushed into the room as pressure equalized between the Impaler and the DropShip then the massive cargo doors of the WarShip opened. As Katrina had predicted there were two armoured Elementals minus their missile packs standing at the hatch weapons raised along with half a dozen others, none other than the two Elementals looked ready for anything special. “FIRE!†The first rank commander shouted as the pirates adopted an ancient form of massed fire against the two Elementals. The first rank would fire on one while the back rank hit the second. “FIRE!†the second rank commander shouted as the first fired. Bullets, pulse laser, personal gauss rifle and regular laser blasts crossed the gap between the pirates in Stab in the Dark and the two Elementals. The first looked like it had weathered the first strike well but moments after it had been hit the huge warrior fell on its face. The second stood up to the fire and returned fire cutting down three of the pirates a laser shot and an anti-personnel sub-machine gun as it moved closer.
“Second rank second salvo! First rank needlers on the soft targets.†The second salvo from the pirates cut the remaining Elemental to pieces with a second massed salvo and he crashed over the bay doors threshold, with luck it would wedge the door open if they tried to close the Impaler’s bay doors. As the second rank fired the first swapped to needler pistols more built to shred human flesh than armour they’d have been useless against the heavily armoured Elementals. “CLEAR!†One of the pirates shouted as they charged into the WarShip’s bay. Katrina Ward appeared from the DropShip bay and calmly walked through the connection tunnel into the bay.
“Commander, secure this room ensure that only we can close the bay doors and that we control the connection tunnel, we can’t run the risk of being cut off from the Stab in the Dark.â€
“Of course.†Beside him two pirates with tech packs began work on a console cutting links to the doors so only a manual closing would work. Katrina walked over to a secondary panel.
“Bridge, Cargo Bay One†she said calmly
“Cargo Bay, what is going on we have had reports of weapons fire? Did those stavag merchants try and board us?â€
“Commander, this is Katrina Ward commander of Ward’s Hunters. I am a former member of Clan Wolf. I am well versed in the defences of this vessel and your crew complement. You will surrender to me now or we will go deck by deck and eliminate your entire crew. In short commander this vessel is now mine.â€
“Pirate stavag listen very carefully I am an officer of Clan Ice Hellion and I will not be spoken to in such a manner.†He said very matter of fact, Katrina wondered if he was in shock. “What are your terms for this Trial of Possession?†Katrina smiled having an idea she did her math quickly and replied.
“I bid my entire force, forty men and women armed with marine boarding weapons and anti-armour weapons for your Elementals. I also bid the Stab in the Dark, my DropShip attached to your vessel it is armed with enough explosive that I can blow a sizable chunk in your vessel. This is my first bid.â€
“Katrina Ward, my counter bid is one hundred-and-forty three warriors aboard Impaler and two aerospace fighters.†Katrina was surprised either the commander had cut over one hundred members off his bid or almost all his aerospace assets or the WarShip was heavily unmanned. “This is my first bid.â€
“I bid away my DropShip; I have no reason to destroy your craft I want to possess it. And with your depleted crew I will bid away my anti-armour weapons as well.â€
“Excellent, I bid away my aerospace fighters and all but twenty-five of my crew; these will be unarmoured Elemental warriors and myself.†Katrina cursed she did not expect there to be more Elementals than the bay security.
“I bid away all of my warriors except me.†Katrina said taking a gamble “I challenge you to single combat personally. I am the hunter; my possession will be your WarShip. If you refuse all bids are void.â€
“Not quite the Clan way but I agree, I will fight you Katrina Ward as we are in space we will be unaugmented, where will we fight?â€
“Here in this bay where I know nothing can go wrong, you may take ten men as a security group and as witnesses to my victory.â€
“One hour, Seylaâ€
“Seyla†Katrina whispered she noticed several pirates standing mouths hanging open surprised. “Our Hellion has balls I’ll give him that, prepare to receive guests.†She said quietly.
An hour later the captain, nine elementals and one woman entered, she wore the uniform of a Star Commander, most likely the second in command. Katrina stripped off her jacket revealing a tank top underneath with her black jeans she struck quite an image removing her gun belt she placed it on a nearby console. “I am ready if you are Commander.†She said looking him over around forty he was old for a Clan warrior but looked well for his age, as an Aerospace Warrior to start with he had large eyes and a strange looking bigger head than his body required, something Katrina had never gotten used to looking at.
“It is Star Captain actually.â€
“I am sure that matters to someone.†Katrina replied immediately brining laughter from several of the pirates. “Come and get me you Clan bastard.â€
“Insulting my parentage does nothing to me as I am a Trueborn, any Clansmen especially one from the Wolf Ward Bloodname House should know that.†He said “shall we begin†he asked bowing slightly Katrina immediately lunged forward smashing the Clan warrior on the head with her fist staggering the man back before kicking him in the face with her left leg. The Clan warrior recoiled and dropped into a fighting pose obviously not taking her attack as a breach of Clan fighting rules. “Perhaps I was too hopeful of an honourable opponent†he said over laboured breath.
“Less talk and you may live†Katrina said ducking to the left jabbing him in the ribs with her right fist then ducking away avoiding a clumsy strike from the WarShip’s commander. Ducking back into range again she punched again twice at his ribs breaking at least one with an audible crack following up her attack with a trip she sent the Clansmen sprawling onto his front. Katrina had spent years under Vlad Ward’s teaching she’d learned many things from the former Clan Wolf leader. Jumping behind him she grabbed him around the neck with two hands and began to twist but stopped for a moment “it was stupid of you bidding yourself†she whispered in his ear before completing the twist breaking his neck. Before Katrina let go the lifeless body the Clan commander was dead.
“This Trial is over, I am your new commander what say we?†She asked looking at the ten Clansmen in the room.
“Seyla†they said in unison snapping to attention all except the woman “Commander what is your order?†She asked, Katrina looked at her properly for the first time she was blonde and had a muscular MechWarrior’s build not an aerospace warrior. Anyway she also had strange smirk on her lips almost like she expected Katrina to win and wanted to make the most of it.
“First our DropShip has more people to come aboard. You commander will have them shown around the ship by your best people. Second, I need an escort to my new quarters. Third, set a course for the planet.â€
“The planet?â€
“Yes, I want to make the people an offer they will be dying to refuse.†She said smiling. Three days later the Impaler and the three pirate DropShips set course for planetary orbit. Over the six day trip to the planet Star Commander Sonia Cage became Katrina’s best source on the former Ice Hellion warriors on the planet and became Katrina’s companion in the bed chamber also. The inhibitions of a Clan Warrior quickly dissolving as she saw an opportunity and was taking it for Katrina it was a nice diversion while her child slept in the next room with his nanny.
On the eighteenth the destroyer arrived in orbit of the planet from Katrina’s detailed briefings of the planet’s defences by the crew of the Impaler she knew they had limited aerospace fighter support and bet that her worlds of Rack and Pain had better defences. From orbit she looked down and saw utter devastation the people had not been nice to their planet before the Ice Hellions and things had not improved since the clansmen arrived. Using the Impaler’s strongest communications device she spoke to the planet’s population. “People of Austruias I am Katrina Ward, commander of Ward’s Hunters and commander of the Impaler which I won in honourable hand-to-hand combat. I call on all those who wish to make something of their lives to join me. Our people do not plan on being pirates our entire life I have big plans for my people and my son. Join me before you die in this pit.â€
“Communications from the planet, we have communications from three commands on the surface who want to talk more.â€
“Numbers?â€
“One is cluster sized the others are a Trinary and a double Nova formationâ€
“Contact the Cluster†the communication officer nodded signalling she was on “This is Impaler go ahead.â€
“This is Galaxy Commander Brad Taney commander of the Forty-fifth Hector Cavaliers I would like to speak to one of the Ice Hellion warriors aboard your craft to confirm your story.â€
“Galaxy Commander, this is Sonia Cage, the vessel’s executive officer this craft’s commander was killed in a Trial he should not have begun. What Katrina Ward says is true; she is the lawful commander of this craft and a former Wolf Warrior. Her plans are far greater than another Pirate Band.â€
“Then you have us, we need transport for three Trinaries and around one to two hundred civilians if you can manage them.†He added “they have stood with us with the fall of Clan Ice Hellion and proven quite useful.â€
“Commander consider it done†Katrina said after thinking civilians complicated things but if these Clanners had fallen as far as to wanting them with them then they likely would not leave without them. “I have an Overlord-class DropShip on the way down load everything that is not bolted down. And Commander?â€
“Yesâ€
“This WarShip’s guns are trained on your position so do not betray me.â€
“Not a chance this world has done me no favours.†He said cutting the communication link.
“Anything else?â€
“Nothing, both other formations are signalling they need pick upsâ€
“Same deal deploy the DropShips track them with five minute check calls when on the ground anything goes wrong use Impalers guns to wipe the area clear.†Her communication officer nodded as both the Fortress and Union-class DropShips descended into the atmosphere.
“New communication from what appears to be the former Capitol Government buildings.â€
“Put them on†Katrina said
“This is Khan, that’s right Khan Scott Moore! Just who the hell do you think you are recruiting my men stealing my equipment? Clan Ice Hellion will not stand for this! We will destroy your vessel!†He shouted even through the distorted communication device Katrina could hear his anger, for some reason Katrina guessed it was someone far beyond his depth and someone who had realized his position was nothing but as a figurehead.
“I am death†Katrina responded turning to her gunnery officer, she noticed Sonia moving up behind him “Port side broadside guns on that target.†He hesitated for a moment orbital bombardment was not the Clan way Sonia moved but Katrina waved her off “he has threatened our ship and me. Weapons on that target now!†She demanded more forcefully whether it was the force of her words or the man’s understanding that if he did not fire then he would die the Impaler’s guns fired into life Naval Autocannons and lasers hitting the capital city and buildings with much ferocity tearing into building after building moving from the capitol building to others in the area. After more than a minute of constant fire the weapons ceased. “Why have we stopped engaging?†She demanded looking at the man.
“No power signatures, no major movement on within ten kilometres of the target area, I did not want to waste our ammunition on a dead target.â€
“Good judgement†Katrina said commending the man, he would feel guilty but hopefully would understand it. There were no further challenges while all three of her DropShips returned to formation. “A good day, helm take us to our JumpShip and prepare for Jump procedures.†Katrina said turning to Sonia Cage “Commander, I think this ship is tainted by its past perhaps we should rename it what are your thoughts?â€
“A new name would clear the deck.†She replied with a smile although a couple of the others looked shocked it was thought to be bad luck to rename a ship in its lifetime.
“Good I was thinking Hanse, after Hanse Davion the most successful of the modern leaders of the Inner Sphere.â€
“Hanse it is then, what do we say crew?†Sonia asked “Seyla!†They responded together. Sonia and Katrina both smiled having eyes for only each other. The trip back out of the system was uneventful rejoining the JumpShip and heading back towards Pain.
High Orbit, Alshain Shipyards
Alshian, Rasalhague Dominion
21st February 3081
Moving from the Alshain Shipyards moved the first WarShip to leave the dock since the mighty Leviathans that dominated the Clan Ghost Bear fleet. This vessel was not on the scale of the Leviathans but still very impressive. The massive Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser weighed in around seven hundred-and-eighty thousand tons originally conceived with Clan Snow Raven as escort vessels for the Leviathan-class the Snow Ravens had withdrawn from the project completing two of the vessels themselves modifying Star League-era Kimagure-class vessels. Although three such vessels remained within the Clan Homeworlds cache fleets the Ghost Bears had no intention on travelling back to the Homeworlds and end up having to fight over ancient hulls. Instead they had decided to build their own vessels. Most of the development had been done by the Bear engineers and scientists but the final completion work had been done by Snow Raven scientists assisting with the project.
Now the first new-build Conqueror dubbed Silverdale was ready for service within the Ghost Bear fleet in service of the Rasalhague Dominion. However, to be officially commissioned the vessel would have to complete a series of jumps from Alshain to Rasalhague the sister capital of the Dominion. Moving clear of its moorings the Silverdale cleared Alshain’s gravity well, behind it three further vessels were under construction but that was behind the Silverdale now, as it ignited its Jump-Drive for the first time launching it thirty light years away from Rasalhague.
Nadir Jump Point, Silverdale (Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser)
Radstadt system, Rasalhague Dominion
29th February 3081
Completing its second Jump from the Alshain the Silverdale engaged its Lithium Fusion Battery attempting to use the ship’s “double-jump†facility and nothing happened. Instead the Silverdale’s jump drive shut down entirely. Six hours later onboard techs confirm the K-F drive has suffered a catastrophic failure and they will need engineering support from Alshain with the entire core possibly needing repair or replacement, it’s a massive blow for the Ghost Bear’s newest Battle-cruiser which has turned into a virtual system monitor by the accident.
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Zenith Jump Station
Outreach, Star League Protectorate
2nd March 3081
“Jump signature something big coming inâ€
“Alert the Wolf Pack just in case†the commanding officer said ordering the Davion III-class Destroyer on station near the Zenith point was a prudent choice if excessive. Buried deep within the Star League Protectorate it was unlikely anyone would threaten the Dragoons, then again the Dragoons had their enemies.
Soon after a single vessel jumped into view painted in the traditional Dragoons/Clan Widowmaker colours. “Sensors cannot lock but eighty-five percent for a Clan Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser no DropShips attached.†The sensor operator said “IFF tags as Athena.†The same name of the Dragoon vessel supporting the SLDF forces in the Liberation of Terra against the Word of Blake.
“Like seeing a ghost†the commander mumbled remembering watching the ship arive. “Alert dirt side, the General will want to know, get the Wolf Pack to make a run past her; I don’t want any surprises and find out why sensors don’t ID it as a full Sovetskii Soyuz. If they are out of sync I want to know why.†He ordered in rapid succession regaining his composure.
As it turned out the sensors on the Space Station functioned perfectly the Athena had been returned to the Dragoons but it was no longer a Sovetskii Soyuz-class vessel. Instead the SLDF had taken poetic licence with the Clan Wolf’s upgrade of the class and turned the Athena into the newest Dire Wolf-class vessel. When questioned as to why the vessel had been returned to the Dragoons the SLDF commander Fleet Admiral David Natale replied the Dragoons had continually proved they would face down a Clan onslaught and they helped liberate Terra eleven years before from the Word of Blake. The ship belonged to the Dragoons far more than it did the SLDF.
Capellan Counter Offensive
Oriente Protectorate Border
10th March 3081
With the Second Capellan Defence Force, Renshield’s Dragoons supported by Caesar’s Cohorts and Burr’s Black Cobras Mercenary Commands the Capellan Confederation retake all Pacht, Wazan and Old Kentucky all occupied by Oriente Protectorate.
A day later in retribution to the Oriente attacks the Chancellor’s Pride, the Capellan’s Thera-class Super-carrier, supports Warrior House Doru, and the Second Reventhir Cuirassiers in taking Zion from the Oriente Protectorate. The air superiority provided by the Chancellor’s Pride proves the end to the Iron Guard on Zion. Burning off planet fighters from the Chancellor’s Pride chased elements of the Regiment all the way to their DropShips.
Severn Leroux, Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser
New Barcella Shipyards, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den
14th March 3081
As per a challenge levied at them by Khan Canin Rosse Nova Cat engineers call the Severn Leroux, Clan Nova Cat’s flagship, to New Barcella Shipyards for extensive refits. Khan Rosse had said he wanted the ship to evolve with the technology available but still be an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, a ship worthy of being the Nova Cat’s flagship. The plans had been drawn up and now the vessel would be in refit for several months with no major conflicts ongoing or planned it was a minor inconvenience for the Nova Cat Touman as the Severn Lervoux was normally detached to the Khan’s escort rather than a Naval Star Assignment.
16km South Royce, Capital City
Fletcher, Star League Protectorate
18th March 3081
“Captain, I have an unidentified vehicle at long range, permission to move out and check on it.†Lieutenant Michael Lawrence commander of the Scout lance said over the ready, like the others of the Company he was green and eager for some action.
“What makes you think it needs checked Lieutenant?â€
“I was tracking it before we entered town, they turned away when we got into range of town.â€
“Can you identify it?â€
“Looks like a Mike-India-Tango-2-3 MASH vehicle sir.â€
“We don’t have any on Fletcher. Could be a mercenary unit that has strayed from their area ‘accidentally’ check it out with Pursuit Lance. We will hold here and fly the flag.â€
“Thank you sir†Michael replied the glee in his voice obvious as he switched communication frequency “okay boys and girls we have a job that should keep us busy for about three minutes if Laura gets there as quick as I think she will. MIT-23 on long range sensors doesn’t want to be stopped by a Star League unit. We are tasked with finding out. Laura, range ahead you’re the quickest of us out here but don’t stray out of our reach just in case. The rest follow at best speed.â€
“Like anything will happen here†Laura replied her Nyx BattleMech suddenly accelerating beyond one hundred kilometres an hour.
“Going high†Steven said moments later his factory new Spider BattleMech launched skyward, with its new improved jump jets he could jump around three hundred metres in a single bound.
“That leaves us boss†Debbie Cameron said her fifty-five ton Shadow Hawk and his fifty ton Ghost were not designed to be sprinters, they could keep up with Steven’s Spider on the ground and if it walked and they ran but that was not where their strength was. Where the other two would be forced to run and jump to stay alive both of the heavier Mechs carried the firepower and protection to stay in a fight longer.
“As always Debs, let’s get moving.†Michael said as both Mechs accelerated to just over ninety kilometres per hour.
“Boss, I’m in range it’s a standard MIT-23. Painted white and teal no national or merc unit markings.â€
“Okay do not make an approach until we are all in range just keep it on visual.â€
“Right it’s keeping its pace up but you should meet it in three minutes.†She reported
“Karen, I have your back, about one hundred-eighty metres your east.â€
“Have you on sensors, no other contacts. Lieutenant, I see one further marking on both side and back a bloody red hand inside a circle.â€
“Understood continue monitoring.â€
“Point four, under heavy fire!†Steven shouted as his Mech jumped into the air as he jumped even at this distance Michael could see particle cannon and missile blasts rock the Mech.
“Point Three turning to assist†Karen replied only for her Mech to freeze in position before falling down completely out of control “full systems failure, power overload unknown source, I’m going down!!†Karen shouted a warning not even knowing if her communication was going through.
“Debs assist Point Three I have four†Michael ordered moving out the two heavier designs splitting up. The Ghost’s over shoulder mounted Particle Cannons moved slightly left and right as he moved forward while the hatches to his Multi-Missile Launchers opened on the Torso. “Steve, are you still active?†All he heard was static, approaching the Spider’s last location he saw the thirty ton Mech on the ground surrounded by six four legged Battle armour troopers “This is Lieutenant Michael Lawrence. We represent the Star League Defence Force and you are on our ground identify and stand down your aggression.†He said into a wide beam comm. channel hoping someone in town would hear it. Various machine guns, particle cannons and what appeared to be anti-personnel gauss weapons replied. “Fair enough, this is Recon Lance One, Third Royal BattleMech Regiment grid three-two-six north requiring assistance.†He said firing both his missile launchers and particle cannons at almost that very moment a pair of autocannons and a group of missiles struck his back destroying what little armour was there and crushing his Mech’s gyro. With firing a single volley his Mech was down and out of the fight not exactly the best start to a career, as he thumbed for the ejection switch some of the Battle Armour fire struck his cockpit whipping Michael’s head back knocking the MechWarrior out.
Although he did not know how long he had been out Michael knew that something was wrong when he woke up his head felt like he’d been ten rounds in the boxing ring, his hands and feet were bound to a cold table and he was completely naked. Over him stood a man with half his head replaced by a metal plate “I don’t know who the hell you think you are but you won’t get away with this I am a Star League MechWarrior and officer! They will look for me!†Michael screamed.
“We know exactly who you are Michael Lawrence, twenty-four, originally from Wichita North America on haloed Terra itself. Currently serving the Star League Defence Force within the Third Royal BattleMech Regiment as a Lieutenant. Don’t worry you and your lance mates will be well taken care.†The man said Michael glanced to his side and saw Steven, Karen and Debbie all lying on similar tables to him all three were naked, bound and gagged. Karen had a nasty cut that ran down the length of her left arm while Steven’s right foot was bandaged heavily but Michael could tell the entire limb was missing. Debbie looked the best off of his lance mates until she rolled her head to the left and he noticed half her face had been burned away.
“What are you doing with us?â€
“We are going to enlighten you in Blake’s Holy teachings, don’t worry you can call me Arthur.â€
Interstellar Expedition Offices
Galatea, Galatean City
Lyran Commonwealth
21st March 3081
Called upon by their Contract to defend Interstellar Expeditions assets wherever they may be called Samantha Silver’s Sabres arrive on Galatea to defend local assets from trouble. The Slayers also attempt to register as a mercenary unit to allow them to raise their contract charge rates however because the unit refuses to disclose their previous history the MRBC take them on a probationary basis until an investigation can be conducted into the units origins.
Hell’s Horses Invasion
Clan Occupation Zones
25th March 3081
Clan Hell’s Horses continue to take advantage of Clan Wolf’s drive towards Terra seizing eight worlds only on Steelton, Persistence and Winfield do their encounter major resistance from the Wolves as these worlds are former Clan Jade Falcon worlds and a fought over more pride than anything. The shock for the Hell’s Horses however is the assault on Star’s End, knowing the Wolves have had constant trouble from the world they dispatch the entire Stampede of Steel Galaxy supported by the WarShips Red Knight, a Lola III-class Destroyer, the Sharon, an Essex-class Destroyer and the Steel Shield, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser. This force commanded by saKhan Tanya De Laurel who beat Khan James Cobb for the honour.
“Move through the asteroids quickly the quicker we reach Star’s End the quicker we can teach the Wolves how this should be done. Transports stay close to Steel Shield, Sharon and Red Knight takes point.†The commander of the Red Knight said to all the DropShips and his three WarShips.
“Admiral continuing to pick up sensor shadows of a WarShip out there, it is ninety-three percent confirmed as an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser. The Wolves has no such vessel.â€
“Maybe a Falcon chancing their luck, continue monitoring.†He ordered as the Red Knight cleared the asteroid field.
“Contact! Ore Processing Space station, fifty-two kilometres to port, it appears derelict, no power.â€
“Continue forward, flag it as requiring investigation in future.†The Admiral ordered as the Red Knight passed the station, behind the destroyer the Steel Shield cleared the asteroids and behind her was the Sharon. The majority of the DropShips behind or under the WarShips using the massive bulk of the combat vessels for protection.
“By the Great Father, Multiple launches!!†The sensor operator screamed “Thirty!! Three-Zero missiles inbound on the Steel Shield - they are Peacekeepers! Nuclear weapons!â€
“All point defence activate!†He screamed the order “divert all combat DropShips and fighters to protect that Potemkin! All other DropShips scatter! Main guns find the source of those missiles and open fire!†The Admiral screamed as his force moved to engage or scattered.
“Too late†someone said within the bridge, all could see at least one of the missiles would impact the Steel Shield. As Hell’s Horses DropShips attempted to defend against the fire but it was too little too late two of the missiles broke through the barrages and struck the Steel Shield’s fore port armour a massive white light and an explosion then the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser was engulfed in an expanding fiery explosion.
“Steel Shield abandon ship!! Abandon Ship, all SAR teams move in rescue as many as you can!†The admiral screamed watching the Potemkin-class vessel crumple and fall to pieces under the impact. “Sensors how many DropShips did we loose?â€
“Six DropShips, two Titans, one Confederate, a Lion, a Fortress and an Overlord.†As the list was read off the Admiral realized that close to two Clusters had been wiped out in an instant.
"Damn" the Admiral whispered "How could the Inner Sphere and Wolves allow such pirates to hold such resources? Have all our forces regroup and continue towards the Planet we will not be stopped." He ordered the DropShips and fighters rallied around his two remaining WarShips and they continued through the remaining asteroids. After almost five full minutes clearing the last of the asteroids and avoiding two intricately set mine fields the Red Knight emerged from the asteroids to face Star's End.
"Incoming from five targets all around us!"
"Report!" The Admiral ordered as the ship echoed with impacts on the hull."
"Missiles from several of the asteroids behind us and what appears to be Naval Lasers from two satellites near the planet."
"Stavag dogs!! Have the Sharon turn and engage those asteroids, the Sharon should sacrifice itself before allowing our ground forces to be targeted. Weapons engage those damned satellites now. All DropShips make for the planet now." The Red Knight and Sharon both began firing their weapons at the weapon emplacements luckily for the DropShips the crews or the sensors on these positions had been ordered to attack the biggest targets available and so were targeting only the WarShips and unlike the previous attack they never had the firepower or the surprise to take out the Hell‘s Horses. While the conventional batteries of Long and Short Range missiles striking the Sharon were no threat to the Essex-class WarShip and were soon turned to dust by the Destroyer's weapons the two satellites attacking the Red Knight were causing more damage with their Naval class Lasers. Fortunately while there were two lasers striking the Red Knight the destroyers full complement of weapons were turned against the two targets quickly reducing them to debris.
On the ground the remaining the remaining three Mechanised Clusters led by Omega Keshik and saKhan Tanya DeLaurel struck at targets across the northern atmosphere. The resistance mostly melted away but at one facility the resistance held nearly two Battalions worth of Mechs and armour supported by over a regiment of Infantry supported by Battle Armour, there the defences held refusing to buckle. For eighteen hours they held against the Hell's Horses assault until the Clan force breached the main defence gates with armour and Battle Armour before saKhan DeLaurel supported them with her Mechs and shattered the defenders resolve.
As the defenders picked over the pirate pieces they discovered what the pirates had been defending, a DropShip shipyards with new DropShips under construction as the Hell's Horses secure the facility to of the DropShips launch into space escaping the planet, making for the asteroid belt they meet with a modified Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser which almost instantly jumps away from the system before either Hell's Horses WarShip can intercept and destroy them.
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Jade Falcon Invasion
Pandora, Arc Royal Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
4th April 3081
Not wanting to fall behind the Wolves Clan Jade Falcon strike at Pandora, Grunweld, Summit and Surcin in the Lyran Commonwealth. Unfortunately for the Falcons on Pandora they find a veritable road block three units of the Lyran Commonwealth block their path. Unable to push forward the Jade Falcons ignore their other three targets and instead strike fully at Pandora with Alpha and Kappa Galaxies crushing all three Lyran units and two mercenary targets on the planet. The Jade Falcons are however unable to stop the Lyrans and their mercenaries retreating off world.
Combine counter attack
Buckminster Prefecture, Dieron Military District
Draconis Combine
10th April 3081
The Northwind Hussars Regiment agree a contract with the Draconis Combine agreeing to a posting on Ghost Bear Dominion border assisting with the liberation of Nurnki, Chandler and Kiessan with the support of several Dieron and Pesht Regular units. Draconis Combine leader Minoru Kurita broadcasts to the Ghost Bears that this is not an invasion on a liberation of the worlds lost to the Ghost Bears.
Royal Court
The Triad, Tharkad
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
14th April 3081
"My fellow Lyrans, today I have brought you together to honour one our true hero of our nation. Following an unwarranted act of aggression from the Wolf Clan against the world of Arcturus he not only led his unit in defence of his home but thinking on his feet he pushed on capturing Clan DropShips and JumpShips he launched a counter-strike with nothing more than the forces of his own command. This act of bravery and initiative took his Twentieth Arcturan Guards to Blue Diamond and there he forced the Clan forces off world and brought an entire planet back into the Commonwealth's fold. Though there have been victories against the Clans before rarely have we had such success in a pure counter attack." Archon Peter Steiner-Davion said addressing the entire Royal Court. "I bring to your attention General Aiden Gray of the Twentieth Arcturan Guards Regimental Combat Team." He continued as the General stepped forward dressed in his full dress uniform. The man stopped about three feet from Peter's throne standing in the shadow of the two Griffin BattleMechs that acted as the last defence for the throne from all attackers of the Lyran state. "General, you have been brought to this chamber to be honoured for your actions that brought an entire world back into our authority from an invading Clan. As a result of these actions Aiden Gray you are awarded the McKennsy Hammer." Peter said hefting the two kilogram hammer shaped award handing it to the General. The older man took the award with a smile and a salute then turned to the applauding Royal Court.
"I accept this on behalf of my unit, I would not have been able to accomplish what I did without them, and on behalf of all those Lyran soldiers who are fighting the Clans and defending our borders." He said turning back to the Archon saluting again "by your leave, sir" Peter returned the salute and nodded which Aiden took as a dismissal turning and leaving the Court.
Wreckage Site
Arkab, District of Benjamin
Draconis Combine
18th April 3081
"We've found the second Battalion, three kilometres south of here, all standing in their maintenance bays the MechWarriors in their sleeping quarters" one agent said walking through the wreckage. "It was like none of them knew what hit them killed in their sleep. How about here?"
"Looks like most of these Mechs were destroyed with physical attacks, the Atlas over there with its cockpit smashed still has a Charger's hand actuator still stuck there."
"And third Battalions DropShip is spread across the rest of the continent" the third ISF agent said joining his colleagues. "The Saurimat strike again."
"Don't tell me you believe those old wife tales?"
"If the evidence fits then we run with it."
"How can they destroy the entire Sixth Benjamin Regulars Regiment without anyone lifting a finger or realizing what has happened?"
"The people of these worlds would protect the Surimat till their deaths, we should not be surprised." The Third agent said
"We cannot say for certain that this was not the Ghost Bears retaliating for the Highlanders actions."
"Only that the bears have made no moves against us at all, or troop movements within their own borders." The Third agent argued back
"Silence, we will produce what the evidence points to and command can decide on the fate of the Sixth. Pack up we are leaving this area." The first agent commanded.
FSS Audacity, First Prince-class Battleship
Port Simon Shipyards, Galax
Crucis March, Federated Suns
22nd April 3081
At the Galax Port Simon Shipyards the FSS Audacity began to slowly clear its moorings one thousand metres in length the ship was the first new built First Prince-class Battleship in centuries and the first in the AFFS Admiralty's fleet since the FSS Hanse Davion/Thunderchild had been destroyed. Upgraded from the Block I First Prince-class Battleship the ship had been upgraded with a Naval C3 system to help coordinate fleet operations and a Large Naval Comm. Suite two technologies yet to be used on a Federated Suns WarShip as Admiralty leaders had been unwilling to have any of their WarShips upgraded with the new technologies instead building them from the ground up with the technologies.
Silverdale, Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser
Radstadt, Ghost Bear Dominion
26th April 3081
The Battle-cruiser Silverdale had been stranded in the Radstadt system for nearly two full months unable to continue out of the system due to a disabled K-F Drive. In the time the ship had been stranded its aerospace fighters had arrived and began training in the system and on Radstadt with the Ghost Bear Dominion ground forces at least giving them something to do. Meanwhile the Ghost Bear engineers had agreed they were stumped after three weeks of trying to repair the damage and instead called on the Snow Ravens for assistance. A week later the Snow Raven's Nestling, a Carrack-class Transport, had arrived with several specialist teams to assist the Ghost Bears with their disabled vessel. As it had been Snow Ravens that had helped build the ship surely they could help the Ghost Bears. Unfortunately so far they had no luck.
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Naval Battle, Dark Nebula
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
6th May 3081
With the Hell's Horses prowling in the Dark Nebula challenging all Jade Falcon transports in the area the Jade Falcons choose to make sure the Hell's Horses understand who the area around the Dark Nebula belongs to. Jumping into the area of space with the Kerensky's Pride, a Congress-class Frigate, and the Red Talon, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser shows the Jade Falcons mean business as does the Cluster of Aerospace Fighters and several carrier DropShips attached.
Spreading out throughout the Nebula the Jade Falcons hunted down the Sleipnir, a Hell's Horses Cameron-class Battle-cruiser, and the Mount Olympus, a Volga-class Transport, both operating in the Nebula. The Mount Olympus jumped clear of the system almost immediately refusing a Trial against the Jade Falcon vessels. The Sleipnir on the other hand agreed the Jade Falcon challenge first engaging the Red Talon. The larger heavier Hell's Horses Sleipnir launched a full attack on the Red Talon with three long range barrages of Heavy Naval Particle Cannon fire and naval missiles. Only one barrage of PPCs hit at long range but it still tore a huge in the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser's port side.
The Jade Falcon WarShip turned its wounded side away and opened fire with its Broadside Lasers, bracketed autocannons, naval lasers and missiles. The Jade Falcons not known for the aerospace prowess still surprised the incoming Sleipnir with direct hits with missiles, lasers and one set of autocannons. Unfortunately for the Hell's Horses vessel it was already inbound and unable to slow down to escape the Red Talon's fire instead the Slepinir again fired its forward particle cannons and naval lasers at the same time turning to bear its port weapons against the turning Jade Falcon vessel.
The Aegis' armour held against the incoming barrages which were far more accurate as the ships closed their distance. This time the Red Talon opened fire with all ten broadside autocannons and its six aft arc autocannons at the Sleipnir concentrating bracketed fire on the forward and starboard sections of the incoming Cameron. As the ships closed the Naval lasers and missiles of the Aegis joined the autocannons in fire. The Sleipnir itself opened fire with autocannons concentrating on the Aegis-class vessel's port weapons and armour with autocannons, lasers and missiles. With both ships less than one thousand kilometres from each other each opened up with salvo after salvo of autocannon, particle cannon, laser and missile fire. Between this fight of titans neither ship was coming off well from the fire however the Sleipnir was able to do something the Red Talon could not. Its port armour nearly gone it rolled over presenting its pristine starboard armour, the Red Talon also preformed a roll but its own port armour was already burned from the Sleipnir's opening barrage.
Unable to withstand much fire from the Hell's Horses vessel the Red Talon's crew surrendered their vessel to the Hell's Horses following a breach in their depleted armour. With a prize crew aboard the Hell's Horses were willing to abandon the system with their captured WarShip and nothing more however just as the Red Talon jumped clear of the system the Kerensky's Pride arrived in the area. Without warning the Kerensky's Pride opened fire with capital missiles at extreme range pivoting as it closed the ship's aft guns engaged the wounded Sleipnir with heavy naval autocannons cutting through the Cameron-class Battle-cruiser's armour killing the Sleipnir's command crew in their first barrage. The second barrage gutted the internals of the Battle-cruiser causing a massive explosion that gutted the ship.
In follow up attacks assaults by the Jade Falcon's Kappa Galaxy secured Apollo and Winfield with the Eleventh PGC cleaning a stain from its honour by reclaiming Apollo a world it lost six years previous.
AFFS Proving Grounds
New Ivaarson, New Ivaarson Perimetre Defence Zone
Draconis March, Federated Suns
12th May 3081
In the annual exercise between a Clan Nova Cat unit and the Defiance Training Battalion the exercise takes place on the Draconis Combine border on the world of New Ivaarson famous for its combat regiments and troubles with the Draconis Combine. Unlike previous exercises this time no-one interferes so they join together and exercise against the Battalions of the Second Robinson Rangers Regiment and the Robinson Training Battalion. The Nova Cats gain several Sagittaire BattleMechs in trials and trade with the Second Robinson while the Second Robinson Rangers gain a Nova Cat OmniMech and a Pack Hunter light BattleMech.
Ghost Bear Offensive
Clan Wolf Occupational Zone
18th May 3081
Launching a surprise attack on the Wolf Clan the Rasalhague Dominion initiates two trials against the Wolves on Ferleiten and Kufstein. On Ferleiten Star Captain David of the Hall Bloodline impresses his Dominion commander. As a Trinary versus Trinary battle goes wrong for the Ghost Bears Star Captain David piloting a Rifleman IIC brings down four BattleMechs and two points of Wolf Elemental Battle Armour alone turning the battle in the Dominion favour allowing the rest of the Ghost Bears to win the battle. Following the battle David is put forward to the forthcoming Bloodname trial. The Kufstein battle goes far better for the Rasalhague Dominion troops as they win a token trial against the Wolf defenders.
Vision of Truth, Potemkin-class Transport
Holding Point, Terra system
Star League Protectorate
23rd May 3081
Under SLDF escort the Sea Fox Clan arrive in the Terra system to take possession of the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser Vision of Truth. The vessel is being exchanged by the SLDF for an un-stated amount of technology and units and information regarding the Periphery regions. The Vision of Truth leaves the Terran system and travels out of the Inner Sphere under Sea Fox escort as they take it to the Jarnfolk territory for upgrading at the jointly run shipyards.
SIS Justin Allard, Davion III-class Destroyer
St Ives system, St Ives Compact
29th May 3081
"Have the Geneva tighten up and stay close, they don't have the firepower or armour to stay in a fight long. If this is a Capellan vessel it can only be their Chancellor's Pride our best chance is to stay together and hope to slow them down taking down as many of their fighters and DropShips as we can." The Justin Allard's commander said as the Davion Block III accelerated forwards towards the incoming target.
"That ship is huge, well over two million tonnes Captain; if that is a Thera it has blossomed to double the normal size."
"Well we will soon see." He said looking at the monitors, the Davion built vessel was a wash of plasma screens and touch monitors. As it streaked through space it came across the incoming vessel, the sensor operator had been correct it was not a Thera-class Carrier it was far bigger. A huge "mouth"-like structure dominated the fore of the vessel. "Arm all weapons, hail the craft, if this is the Capellans they have been hiding their production capabilities very well."
"Attention, Attention, incoming vessel, this is the SIS Justin Allard flagship of the St Ives Compact fleet. You are challenged to identify yourself or be considered hostile." The comm. officer began to transmit "Attention, Attention, incoming vessel...†she repeated as the Justin Allard entered weapons range.
"Four DropShips appear attached to the upper hull aerodyne in design no power signatures, carried as cargo."
"Sir, response coming through."
"Main speakers" the captain ordered.
"SIS Justin Allard, this is Dr David Lear aboard the vessel Canidice Allard-Liao. I'd like to talk to my mother and farther if possible and to present this vessel to the St Ives Compact Fleet." Crewmen looked around the bridge staring at each other wide eyed.
"Doctor, welcome to St Ives, some warning would have been nice." the captain of the Justin Allard said keeping some of his composure. Outside the Geneva began to loop around the massive new vessel painted in a dull grey with no markings "what is the class of that vessel?"
"It is a Newgrange-class Yardship, at last my home will have a shipyard facility to maintain your ship captain and possibly produce further vessels." David said smiling, the vessels continued forward to St Ives orbit where Prime Minister Kai Allard-Liao and his wife Dr Deirdre Lear headed into orbit to join their son and their newest vessel. There David did what he had promised never to do he lied to his parents, keeping to the cover story created by Star League Intelligence he informed them of his adventure into the Sol System’s Kuiper Belt and finding a research facility, but omitting the finding of the Caspers. He then told them he’d led his team into the Periphery to a set of coordinates he’d found on Terra, finding the vessel completely intact and ready for use. David felt sick as his parents praised his adventurous spirit but he knew what was important the Candice Allard-Liao was a step to making the St Ives Compact Navy truly independent and self sufficient, and against the far larger Capellan Confederation, the security of his home was worth a small lie.
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Ward’s Hunters Raid
Halifax, Timbuktu Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
9th June 3081
Led by Katrina Ward the pirate band formerly known as Morgan’s Extractors raid their first Inner Sphere target under their new name the Ward’s Hunters. Targetting the Lyran Commonwealth world of Halifax in the Timbuktu Theatre they cause heavy damage to several settlements taking money, jewels and equipment before assaulting two LCAF Arms Depots taking hundreds of personal fire-arms and ammunition before leaving. Halifax local defences are unable to counter Katrina’s superior numbers and equipment; on learning that the pirates are supported by a WarShip they call in the LCAF Admiralty for support. Unfortunately the response from Tharkad is leasurely at best and the pirates are long gone before any naval vessels arrive.
Free Worlds League Nations Talks
Emris IV, Independent Member
12th June 3081
Diplomats from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and the Rousset-Marik Alliance meet with representatives of the Oriente Protectorate on Emris IV an independent member of the FWL to discuss extending their trade and defence alliance to include Oriente. The representatives of Oriente reject the initial proposals as they have enjoyed their independence and they believe they can be just as strong without the rest of the former FWL. At the meeting they announce they have taken control over Ipswich a minor Independent world of the former Free Worlds League and Pelta II a border world of the Capellan Confederation. Both the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Rousset-Marik Alliance caution against aggravating the Capellans too much as they are a united nation and the Free Worlds League remains very much shattered.
Regulan Raids
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
15th June 3081
Hearing of the peace talks planned peace talks on Emris IV and intending on sending a message of their own to the two allied states the Regulan Feifs launch raids on Ionus, Loyalty and New Olympia. Intending these on being nuisance raids the Regulans don’t even make it onto the planets in either Ionus or Loyalty systems beaten back by determined naval defences.
On New Olympia however they cause a more havoc than any other raid could have. The world of New Olympia had been an independent Province within the Marik Commonwealth for over eight hundred years with the Dual provinces the Independent Principality of Olympica and the Republic of Kasnov-Greenland ruling the world. The Regulan raid caused the death of Prince Felix D’Andre leader of the Principality as he tried to help defend the Allison MechWarrior Institute from heavy damage, although he was successful in minimising the damage the Prince‘s death would cause far more issues for the Principality in the long term. Before regulan forces retreated they caused heavy damage to the Republic of Kasnov-Greenland’s tourist trade causing further issues for the dual ruling families of the world. In orbit the RFS Kirc Cameron-Jones destroyed several training habitats used by the Lloyd Marik-Stanley Aerospace School including causing damage to the Parnassus Station and the training ship FWLS Jonas Marik before being forced back by the cadets and trainers from the school.
Following claims of compensation from Earl Luka Kefalcyzk against the Independent Principality new leader Princess Kelly D’Andre declared her nation’s participation in the Olympica Province to be over effectively removing New Olympica from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and turning both planetary nations against each other.
Refit Project
Lum Shipyards, Lum
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
22nd June 3081
In the Clan Homeworlds Clan Snow Raven gains control of the three remaining Kigamure-class Pursuit Cruisers from Clan Brian Caches in the Kerensky Cluster. They move these vessels to the Lum Shipyards facility however these vessels do not begin construction to Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser Carriers instead they are set up as troop carriers stripping much of the weaponary for massive cargo storage.
Eighth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Stadium
Star League Protectorate, Lyran Commonwealth
25th June 3081
On Solaris VII the Eighth Star League games gets under way with Francis Indigo appearing to be out front in the early portion of the fighting piloting a new variation of the Warhammer BattleMech, a WHM-X7 model, which he has named The Lich.
National Tour
Denbar, St Ives Compact
29th June 3081
Duke Kai Allard-Liao had been touring the various worlds of the St Ives Compact since the return of his son and had reached Denbar on the tour. It was an important border world with the Capellan Confederation and featured the Second St Ives Janissaries Regiment as well as an over large militia unit.
As Kai toured their facilities an aide’s communicator beeped “Justin Allard to ground detail CODE RED†came the words they always dreaded. Immediately the Duke’s bodyguard looked skyward “multiple DropShips inbound unable to intercept SECURE SOLARIS†the communication said naming Kai’s codename.
“Sire, we have trouble perhaps the base bunker would be the best place for you to overview the battle†one of Kai’s aide suggested.
“Negative, I’ll command from Yeng Lo Wang†he said mentioning his famous modified Centurion BattleMech, the Mech that had served his father and served Kai throughout the Clan War and his battles on Solaris VII. It was probably more famous than any other Mech in the Inner Sphere with only perhaps Jamie Wolf’s Archer or Aleksandr Kerensky’s Orion eclipsing it. Yeng Lo Wang had certainly seen its share of combat and Kai would be far more comfortable in its familiar surroundings than in some damp windowless bunker.
An hour and a half later Kai’s forces were fighting a losing battle against the Fifth Capellan Armoured Cavalry Regiment. Former members of the McCarran's Armoured Cavalry they were decent troops and out to prove their loyalty to the Confederation, Kai’s First St Ives Lancers were outnumbered even with the local militia forces assisting them.
"Lancers fall back; we're not holding this position much longer." Kai ordered as a flight of LRMs struck his Mech's left side.
"We have forces to the rear, almost a battalion broken through the militia." Captain David Ritchie reported.
"Second Battalion, and try to push through, give me a corridor." He ordered firing an autocannon salvo blindly, the projectiles slammed into a Capellan Mech’s head crushing it and the pilot, one less to worry about by Kai was already moving already thinking.
"Solaris to Janissaries ETA, out"
"Twenty-eight minutes, out"
"Understood, over" he said switching frequencies "First Company, one hundred-and-eighty degree turn lets show these bastards how we fight." He ordered his reinforced command company four lances of Mechs turned almost in unison and charged. Kai thumped his assault autocannon's trigger time and again as he brought the fight to the Capellans but with each stride some of his armour was lost.
Something nagged at the St Ives Duke something was wrong, his troops were fighting with their usual spirit however there was something missing. Suddenly something caught his eye a Mech flying in from a huge jump landing near Yeng Lo Wang, suddenly without pause twin bolts of lightning struck from the right arm hitting Kai's Mech mid chest. The Mech launched skyward then fired again this time striking his Mech's back and side still no armour breach but Kai had to kill it quick. Twisting his Centurion's torso he lashed out with the autocannon. The slugs from his weapon struck the strange Mech but it continued to stand and fired back again with its Particle cannons causing more damage. Kai moved fluidly with Yeng Lo Wang trying to avoid a second salvo from the Mech but when he looked up he saw it was gone, looking around he saw the Mech had moved again. Glancing at his sensors Kai realized it was almost directly on top of him turning to face the Mech he watched as the Mech slammed into his Mech from above and right tearing his Mechs arm clean off knocking his Mech to the ground.
As Kai Allard-Liao attempted to recover his Mech was hit by two more particle cannons "EJECT, EJECT, EJECT!" His computer screamed Kai slammed the override ignoring the warning rolling onto his back as more particle cannons hit him. Looking up he saw the strange Mech lean forward and punch his Mech with is clawed left hand. Yeng lo Wang shuddered under the assault Kai saw his reactor spike "SOLARIS to all St Ives forces, it's been an honour serving with you all. Keep faith in our actions, fight for freedom." He said in a general broadcast as Yeng lo Wang's reactor went critical and the Centurion exploded in a nuclear firestorm vaporizing the Mech killing Kai Allard-Liao in an instant.
News of the Duke's death went around the world like a strong gust of wind and Kai's last broadcast was played for days on the world media as the St Ives forces continued to fight. The arrival of the Second Janissaries drove the remaining Capellans from the planet. In space the SIS Justin Allard hounded the regiment for days to the Jump point destroying three further DropShips of troops. Denbar was safe but St Ives had lost its leader and the Inner Sphere had lost an icon.
Silverdale, Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser
Ghost Bear Dominion, Radstadt
31st June 3081
With Ghost Bear and Snow Raven engineers unable to repair the Silverdale the Snow Ravens suggest to the Ghost Bears a repair vessel is required and that the Snow Raven Watch believes the Nova Cats possess such a vessel. Linking into the Chatterweb the Ghost Bears are able to discuss with the Nova Cats for use of their repair ship while the Nova Cats haggle on a decent price the Bears will pay. They are more than happy to assist the Ghost Bear Clan with their troubles but they have no interest in helping for free, nor are they willing to trial for the services of their repair crews.
Half way stage for 3081, plenty going on
Hope you're enjoying it
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Border skirmish
Capellan Confederation/St Ives border
3rd July 3081
As word of Kai Allard-Liao's death spreads further fighting breaks out on Hustaing, New Westin, Harloc, Overton, Brighton and Ares as the two nations engage in emotion fuelled border skirmishes. St Ives defenders fuelled by their Duke’s final words fight for every inch of their worlds this surprises the Capellan invaders who expected to steamroll the breakaway nation. The effect of the St Ives resistance bogs down the conflict down rapidly.
Dark Nebula
Jade Falcon Occuption Zone
5th July 3081
Lyran Commonwealth Intelligence scouts report to Tharkad of seeing a Nightlord 2-class Battleship operating near the Dark Nebula. Initially it is believed this is the Emerald Talon however this is confirmed as being in the Clan Homeworlds by SLDF Intelligence. The name Night Talon has been mentioned by agents several times without concrete proof, the Lyrans begin to put the two reports together. Should the Jade Falcons have a second Nightlord type vessel it is a worrying escalation of naval power on the Clan side of the Lyran borders.
Border Skirmish
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns
7th July 3081
Fighting in the St Ives Compact and Capellan Confederation spills out onto three Federated Suns worlds Zilang, Menke and Mitchel as Capellan troops react to Federated Suns forces being in St Ives. These attacks the Capellans claim are to counter further reinforcement of the St Ives Compact by the Federated Suns, the Federated Suns take it as an invitation to launch further strikes directly against the Confederation.
Unknown system
Deep Periphery beyond Lyran Commonwealth
9th July 3081
Far beyond the Lyran Commonwealth's most distant star the WarShip General Stuart, a battle damaged Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, escorted a Samarkand-class Carrier and two JumpShips, one Monolith and one Star Lord, immediately two Skyward satellites began broadcasting warning messages to the vessels declaring that these systems were dangerous to Human life.
Moving in system slightly they were able to identify the Skywards as ComStar built and deployed systems. Star Admiral Tor McFadden, commander of the General Stuart, ordered one of his DropShips a battered Union C-class Mech transport to scout out the system but take no chances. Three days later the ship reported the discovery of a planet with two more warning satellites in orbit but no sign of anything wrong with the world.
Taking a chance Tor McFadden, a Blood Spirit warrior by birth, ordered his troops in system away from the Jump points and the still broadcasting Skywards. He orders both satellites intact and broadcasting so that anyone else passing through will hopefully leave immediately. Rendezvousing with their DropShip in orbit they discovered the planet was large for a planet capable of supporting human life, with slightly heavier than normal gravity and six sprawling landmasses. On each landmass appeared to be overgrown cities that mimicked the capital cities of the Succession States at the time of the Star League’s Golden Age. With this information at hand Tor McFadden ordered a landing, Star Colonel Tanya Furey led a cluster formerly of Clan Stone Rhino’s Omega Galaxy to the planet landing within the false Forbidden City.
After six hours of exploring the Stone Rhino and Blood Spirit Warriors quickly realize that the city is theirs for the taking with no inhabitants and landings begin of the rest of their six clusters of ground troops and five hundred civilians and scientists. Not much left for what were once two of Kerensky’s Clans. Quickly the warriors began to ignore their Clan ranks referring to themselves as Colonel, Captain or Admiral as they began to drift from their Clan routes, although it is a little difficult with their lack of surname, a lifetime’s amount of training and indocternation.
To ensure secrecy both JumpShips and their WarShips were moved to a pirate point deep within the system ready to come if called but otherwise abandoned. Unfortunately for the former Clan force they find much of the factories, computer terminals and defence posts on the world to be dummy installations. For the former Clansmen however it is something far more important a roof over their heads while they plan their next move and a staging ground to build a future on.
Sandra Rosse, Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser
Varnay Anchorage, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
12th July 3081
“Sovereign has confirmed they are clear of the Anchorage, all vessels jump-drives online and ready we are in position Star Admiral.†The watch-officer at sensors reported, the Legacy-class Yardship was ungainly as it moved and would be nearly useless in combat but that was why the Sandra Rosse and the other Nova Cat vessels were there.
“Good, Sandra Rosse to all ships, jump to pre-planned coordinates on my instruction and let us get this show on the road.†Anders McKenna said clearly into the communication system “3...2...1... All ships execute.†He ordered and with that the Sovereign, the Sandra Rosse, the Blessed Vision, a Carrack-class Merchant vessel, the Swift Strike, a Fredasa-class Corvette, and the Barrier Reef, a tiny Bug-Eye-class Surveillance craft all winked out of the Varnay system. It was only a ten light year jump for the first jump ensuring the Sovereign, which hadn’t been moved in over ten years, could cope with this trip. Once they were clear of the Nova Cat’s Den the five ships would ramp up their jumps as they made the long journey to Clan Ghost Bear’s Rasalhague Dominion and their still stuck Conqueror-class vessel Silverdale.
Jump Point, Odin (Kigamure-class Cruiser)
Lum, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
24th July 3081
At the Nadir point of the Lum system the Odin, a former Kigamure-class Pursuit Cluster surrounded by JumpShips is ready to leave the Clan Homeworlds. The Odin has been converted to a troop cruiser and lacks much of its previous weaponry. Crammed with equipment and civilian personnel the WarShip and surrounding JumpShips leave the Lum system heading towards the Inner Sphere and the Snow Raven’s new base within the Outworlds Alliance.
Allard-Liao Royal Residence
St Ives, St Ives Compact
27th July 3081
On St Ives at the Allard-Liao Royal Residence there was a massive press presence as Dr David Lear stepped out into the light. There was a massive crowd just beyond the perimeter fence watching quietly as the Chief Barrister of St Ives announced David’s arrival. “Dr David Lear, please repeat after me. I (insert name).â€
“I Duke David Allard-Liao†David said, from the crowd he heard a gasp from the crowd as he accepted his father’s title and name for the first time.
“… accept the post of Prime Minister of St Ives of St Ives and its Compact.â€
“I Duke David Allard-Liao, accept the post of Prime Minister of St Ives and it’s Compact.†David said repeating all the man had said.
“And that I as Prime Minister understand my obligations to the people of St Ives and understand that all people within the St Ives Compact are equals ready to work together to survive as a working nation.â€
“And that I as Prime Minister understand my obligations to the people of St Ives and understand that all people within the St Ives Compact are equals ready to work together to survive as a working nation.â€
“Thank you†He said turning to the crowd “with the power invested in me by you and by the power of god, I give you Prime Minister of St Ives, Duke of St Ives, David Allard-Liao.†The Chief Barrister said stepping to one side.
“People of St Ives, I never wanted to be a politician but events have conspired against me. The assassination of my father came at the wrong time, his life cut short by greedy men and women, I can guarantee that I will never surrender the St Ives Compact to the Capellan Confederation and that we the St Ives people will work and fight together to ensure our freedom. I am not my father, I am not a warrior, but if it comes down to fighting I will fight in each trench with you and any invader will pay with their blood to over run this nation. My father will lie in state for a month, please give him the respect he deserves, he will then make one final journey to Solaris where he will rest eternally. Thank you for your support†he said stepping back from the light, he wasn’t ready for this job but he’d get there, the people of St Ives continued to scream their support as he retreated into the Palace.
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FSS Gold Lance, Robinson Block-III-class Transport
New Valencia, Crucis March
Federated Suns
18th August 3081
The FSS Gold Lance moved through the New Valencia system at one-point-five gravities per acceleration. Along side it flew four DropShips, two it had carried here itself and two others that had been transported via JumpShip which waited at the jump points. The five vessels would form a squadron that would always work together linked together with Naval C3 - Command technology. Commodore Holly Hudson noted that her vessel was performing beautifully as it approached the world of New Valencia.
“Commodore, aerospace fighters rising from the planet along with a single DropShip, Union-class they are broadcasting full IFF, it’s the Marshal’s transport.†Her sensor officer noted, she was happy to see her crew acting so well with such a new craft. The Gold Lance had come a long way since it wallowed in a Combine backwater barely able to move let alone fight.
“Understood order our DropShips meet them and launch a squadron of fighters as honour guard†she ordered. The Gold Lance was to be permanently assigned to the First Ceti Hussars RCT based on the planet the raising DropShip carried her new overall commander Marshal Clayton Intravaia. “I’ll head down to the docking port, Commander you have the command, cut acceleration and begin docking procedures.â€
“Aye, Captain I have the command.†He said although they had different ranks the two of them had agreed to keep naval tradition she was the captain and he her first officer, and commander.
Heading aft through the decks of the ship Holly was happy with the way her new command was progressing. Her crew was doing their jobs brilliantly and so far there had been no major hiccups.
“Bridge to the Captain, Hard seal, Marshal Intravaia is ready to board.†The corridors speakers broadcast.
“Very good, I’ll be there in moments. Communicate this to the DropShip†she said touching one of the wall mounted comm. circuits. Moments later she arrived near the docking port with the DropShip she could hear pressure doors being retracted on both sides. Moments later Marshal Vance Lamont entered with two aides “welcome aboard the FSS Gold Lance Marshal Intravaia†she said snapping to a salute, the docking collar crewmen also saluted. Intravaia a career Ceti Hussar officer quickly returned the salute.
“Thank you Commodore, your ship is a welcome addition to my command. How is she faring up?â€
“Very well Marshal, considering this craft was rusting out at one point, we are still ironing out one or two of her quirks. The first of a new batch of Robinson-class Transports we feature upgraded firepower and new capabilities many of our allies could only hope for. From the First Prince we also come with wing of brand-new Aerospace fighters and a Battalion of additional Mechs for your Regiment.â€
“Very nice, I’m impressed; it has been many years since a First Prince of the Federated Suns took an interest in the Ceti Hussars.†He said following her as she began heading back towards the command centre.
“I would suggest we rotate your two aerospace wings and your Mech units through my hangers and have each practice defending this ship as well as launching, for the fighters, and transferring to drop pods for the Mechs or to attached DropShips.â€
“A prudent suggestion, we have a few days before we receive a combat assignment. I’ll have my Combat Commanders bring up a training schedule shouldn’t take too long before we can begin operations. I’ll let you coordinate with Commodore Jesse for assignments of fighters. I noticed you have several assault DropShips with your ship?â€
“They are the Gold Lance’s escort and assault squadron; linked together they are a formidable force capable of taking on far stronger attack forces. It is the First Prince’s hope that if the Gold Lance and her sisters are successful all AFFS WarShips will be configured similarly.â€
“So no pressure then†Marshal Intravaia said quietly, set up to fail? He silently wondered.
“Marshal on the bridge!†Commodore Hudson said as she re-entered the bridge her crew snapped to attention but Intravaia quickly waved them back down. “Continue operations.â€
“We are over the target areaâ€
“Thank you, Marshal allow me to introduce Commodore Michael Stewart my executive officer.†Her executive officer saluted but Intravaia extended his hand and shook the executive officer hand in an informal greeting. “Drop officer, initiate full drop by the numbers.†Hudson ordered, her drop officer didn’t exist on many WarShips but then the Gold Lance was not any other WarShip.
Along the bottom of the Gold Lance and every other Robinson-class Transport was thirty-six drop cubicles one for each of the Gold Lance’s carried BattleMechs. Although each had its own tube it wasn’t safe to deploy them all at once, a lance at a time was almost too much. As orders from the bridge came through lance by lance of Mechs were ‘dropped’ from the bottom of the WarShip heading to the planet within ceramic drop pods specifically designed to transport a BattleMech to a planet without anything more than gravity. “An impressive display Commodore, I’m looking forward to your vessel’s inclusion in my units operations.†Marshal Intravaia said watching the screen as thirty-six individual Mechs launched through space down towards the planet, they’d be able to hook up with the Ceti Hussar ground forces on planet and the MechWarriors could get to know their new unit members. Now they had to train together before their first assignment.
Weapons Storage Facility
Florida, Timbuktu Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
19th August 3081
With the WarShip Hanse, Lola III-class Destroyer, in orbit Katrina Ward leads her pirate band and exclansmen, named the Ward’s Hunters, on a raid against Florida in the Timbuktu theatre of the Lyran Commonwealth. On the ground her hunters quickly overwhelm the defending Florida Timbuktu Theatre Militia force and the move into the base. Unlike most of her Hunters who do not know what they are raiding Katrina Ward knows exactly what is held within the facility from her time as Archon of the then Lyran Alliance in another life as Katherine Steiner-Davion.
Within the Florida Weapons Storage Facility are eighteen canisters of Serus Gas a particularly nasty chemical warfare agent known to disable infantry permanently if they did not receive proper medication. She didn’t remember if it actually killed anyone but it would certainly hurt any defender.
Claiming several of the Florida Militia members as bondsmen to Ward’s Hunters, appeasing her Clan unit members, Katrina also claimed ever piece of available salvage before abandoning Florida leaving the world completely defenceless to future attackers.
New Olympia, Independent Member
Former Free Worlds League
22nd August 3081
Under orders from Captain-General Corrine Marik, leader of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, the Twentieth Marik Militia Regiment lands on New Olympica, formerly a member world of the Commonwealth recent fighting had seen the two nations that controlled the world break from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth taking two premier academies with them.
Deployed to the world to quell unrest and bring the world back into the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth by any means the unit is caught by surprise as almost immediately after arrival the Twentieth finds itself caught up in a civil war between the two planetary nations, the Principality of Olympica and the Republic of Kasnov-Greenland. Keeping to their orders the Twentieth begins operations against both sets of forces and attempts to bring the fighting to an end.
Peace Talks, Kyneinnisan
Sea Fox Territory, Free Worlds League
28th August 3081
On the world that anything could be bought for a price, the gambler world, Kyneinnisan deep within the space formerly claimed by the united Free Worlds League negotiators from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby, the Oriente Protectorate, Regulan Feifs and Rousset-Marik Alliance met to discuss the possibility of reforming the Free Worlds League as one nation. The Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Rousset-Marik Alliance already close with trade and defence agreements were all for a deal pushing the others to agree to terms however the Regulan Feifs and Oriente Protectorate were completely against the idea enjoying their Independence. While the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby was completely disinterested too far from the others or any major enemy to need them.
Unfortunately with so many voices unwilling or uninterested in a reforming the talks were going nowhere. At the same time outside in the bars of Kyneinnisan the bodyguard units of each representative were having their own disagreements. Soon a bar brawl had broken out spreading to several bars and spilling into the street. The fighting only got worse when Clan Sea Fox Elementals of the Fifty-first Strike Cluster arrived in full combat gear. This Clan intrusion was enough for members of the Oriente Protectorate who decided that action was better than worlds and soon a four way brawl across the city broke out with Tamarind forces trying to escape, Marik-Stewarts and Rousset-Mariks fighting against Oriente and Regulan Fiefs forces and the Sea Fox troopers caught in the middle.
Six hours later Clan Sea Fox eject all foreign troopers from the world and stress that this is a Sea Fox protectorate world not a Free Worlds play ground. The Free Worlds League nations don’t like the Clan’s attitude but with the presence of the WarShip Blood Horse, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, in the system they have little choice.
Eighth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Lyran Commonwealth
29th August 3081
Westerland Mech jock Francis Indigo wins the Eighth Star League Games on Solaris VII piloting a new variant of the Warhammer BattleMech which he has named Lich. Rumour around Solaris VII is that this is a new production Mech for StarCorps however no-one from StarCorps is willing to comment.
Following the end of the Competition across the city at Steiner Stadium, the famous Coliseum, there is a special ceremony as Duke Kai Allard-Liao by special decree from the Solaris Game Commission is buried in a newly cordoned off area of the stadium. Many Inner Sphere leaders including First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion, Field Marshal Galen Cox, Archon Peter Steiner-Davion, Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner, Khan Phelan Kell, Warlord Minoru Kurita and Duke David Allard-Liao are all present. By special decree of the Lyran Commonwealth government and of the Solaris Game Commission saKhan Diana Pryde and a Star of warriors from Clan Jade Falcon’s Falcon Guards Cluster are also allowed to attend.
During the Clan War Kai Allard-Liao destroyed the entire Falcon Guard Cluster by tricking them into an area where they could be trapped within a landslide. The Falcon Guard reputation was only saved by Diana Pryde and a couple of select others within the Jade Falcon Clan and the Jade Falcon Clan has never forgotten or forgiven Kai Allard-Liao. In a surprising honour from the Jade Falcon saKhan she presents Duke David Allard-Liao with a Turkina OmniMech and a jade falcon’s claw.
New Olympia, Independent Member
Former Free Worlds League
30th August 3081
On New Olympia in the middle of a three way battle between the Principality of New Olympica, the Republic of Kasnov-Greenland and the Twentieth Marik Milita a nuclear detonation of fifty kilotons explodes near the two forces obliterating almost everything in its path wiping out the Twentieth Marik Militia and severely damaging the world environment.
With neither nation accepting responsibility and both knowing that the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth will wipe them both out because of the attack they send a message via HPG to the Star League asking for immediate humanitarian aid and Star League Defence Force protection.
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Clan Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
2nd September 3081
Intent on pushing deeper into the Inner Sphere Clan Hell’s Horses launch assaults on The Edge, New Caledonia and Nerthandi in Clan Wolf Occupation Zone finding almost all completely abandoned by Wolves. Instead of Clan troops on New Caledonia they find a pirate band attempting to salvage abandoned Clan Technology.
Capellan Confederation/FWL border skirmish
Former Free Worlds League
6th September 3081
Capellan Confederation forces take Furud, Scarborough, Kujari, Wallacia, Cronulla and Goodna all independent Free Worlds planetary systems each with small planetary militias that feature little less than a company of Mechs. Of particular note is the defences of Goodna which feature an entire company of a previously unseen BattleMech which identifies as the Sarissa a medium class Mech with an impressive main weapon.
The Chancellor’s Pride also leads an assault on Carbonis in which they destroy the Galahad (Eagle) in a brief one sided engagement on the ground the Fifteenth Dracon Regiment easily overwhelm local defences and secure another world for the Confederation.
Private Residence
Tara, Northwind
Star League Protectorate
14th September 3081
In the early hours of the morning paramedics are called to the private residence of Colonel Edward Stenn. By 0300hrs Northwind Standard Time Edward Stenn is pronounced dead by Northwind General Coroners a suspected unrecoverable heart attack. The death of Edward Stenn leaves the Northwind Highlanders 1st Kearny Highlanders leaderless. His son Lieutenant-Colonel David Lee Stenn, his son, is promoted to command of the Regiment having served under his father for more than fifteen years he is more than ready for the duty.
Bridge, Hanse (Lola III-class Destroyer)
Son Hoa, Timbuktu Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
26th September 3081
The renegade Clan/Pirate WarShip Hanse shimmered into the Son Hoa system of the Lyran Commonwealth. The six hundred-and-fifty-three metre long battered Lola III-class Destroyer flashed through hyperspace into a new system above a new star. Behind it came three Invader-class JumpShips each making a smaller but noticeable hole in Hyperspace carrying the rest of Katrina Ward’s Hunters. From the command bridge of the vessel Katrina Ward cared little for the vessels behind her it was one vessel directly ahead of her that she was interested.
The sensors had detected the enemy craft as soon as they had entered the system Katrina knew coming here was a bad idea but too much tempting target “Identify that vesselâ€
“The LCS Robert Marsden, Fox-class.†Her former Ice Hellion officer said.
“A Corvette to defend such an important system?â€
“The target is blossoming, five DropShips launching. Two Union-class, One Excalibur-class and two Claymore-class.â€
“She should be transporting Mechs not attacking a WarShip, never was much more than a transport, a poor reminder of my father. Captain, show them how a “Fox†should really act, eliminate that vessel for me.â€
“Of course, forward guns target with naval lasers, helm bring us to port be mindful of that thing‘s forward autocannons, port guns prepare full broadside barrage. Ignore those DropShips until they get close.†The Lola-III began to turn accelerating to two gravities of thrust as it moved Katrina felt twice as heavy as she was luckily this was not going to last long. Lasers from the front of the Lola III lashed out and struck the front of the Fox burning away armour, Two white shark capital missiles followed and although one was cut down by the Robert Marsden’s AMS systems the second struck the underside of the corvette blasting away more armour. The Fox was not sitting still either mirroring the Lola’s movements the crew obviously trying to present fresh armour Naval Class auto cannons striking out through space two striking the Hanse’s hull Katrina could hear the “thump†as the ship vibrated at the impact, the Fox was not the best armed or armoured vessels but it was still a WarShip. The five DropShips were also moving into position as well along with sixteen aerospace fighters, the Hanse’s ten own fighters were staying close providing fighter defence.
“Deploy aerospace fighters attack the Robert Marsden, rear gunners give those DropShips something to think about.†The Hanse’s commander said the Lola III’s rear guns began firing peppering the DropShip but not destroying any of them.
“All DropShips remain.â€
“All remain?†She said looking at the five DropShips
“Aye, sir, only two aerospace fighters have been destroyed all DropShips remain†he repeated.
“Helm bring us about take us on a course directly for those DropShips†the commander ordered Katrina felt her stomach turn as the WarShip turned in space redirecting its thrust.
“The Fox is moving to flank usâ€
“Continue on course, DropShip status?â€
“Holding their ground†the sensor officer reported moments later “Capital Missile launches! 10 capital missiles!!â€
“Evasive all weapons fire at will, continuous barrage on those DropShips, aft guns target the Fox keep it honest.†The commander said turning to Katrina, “the Lyrans have armed their DropShips with capital guns.â€
“One Claymore down and out†a voice in the background reported moments later eight Naval Autocannons in the rear flanks of the Lola III struck out. Six hit the front of the Robert Marsden three on the left side and three directly at the front shattering most of the armour. To the port and starboard auto cannons lasers and missiles engaged the DropShips. “Second Claymore is down, other DropShips continuing to close and cause damage more incoming Capital Missiles.†Two more thumps damaged the rear of the Hanse.
“Broadsides on the DropShips now!†Both broadsides of the Lola fired together momentarily overheating the targeting systems. But the results were magnificent one of the Unions and the Excalibur was torn to pieces as well. “Final Union is retreating as is the Robert Marsden.â€
“Helm come to port, forward lasers target the Robert Marsden and fire†The Hanse carrying more speed and now with the advantage continued hunting down the damaged Robert Marsden firing Naval lasers constantly causing damage to the retreating Corvette. Turning to port a new salvo of Naval auto cannons rang out rearing the rear of the Fox from the front destroying the WarShip.
“Target destroyed. Despite the damage taken, congratulations commander.â€
New Olympica, Independent Member
Former Free Worlds League
Star League Protectorate
28th September 3081
By order of First Lord Jeremy Brett Commanding-General Archer Christifori deploys the SLS Morgan Hasek-Davion, a Davion Block III-class Destroyer, the Eightieth Special Operations Battalion, the Nuclear Family, specialists in dealing with Nuclear clean up and weapons investigations, the Twenty-eighth Battle Armour Battalion and Kraken’s Unleashed Mercenary unit to New Olympica. They are ordered to help clean up the nuclear waste left after the nuclear detonation. Smooth local relations between the Republic of Kasnov-Greenland and Principality of New Olympica and ensure Marik Stewart-Commonwealth forces do not land on the planet.
Arriving in system they discover the MSC Venturer, a vessel of the Venturer-class Light Cruiser, the Morgan Hasek-Davion deploys two Arondight-class Pocket WarShips and its aerospace fighters in a brief standoff before the Venturer receives orders to stand down.
While work is done to help get New Olympica back on its feet and find out to the origin of the nuclear blast. Governor of Terra Gavin Dow meets with Captain-General Corrine Marik on Atreus and hammers out an agreement beneficial to both sides. The SLDF will garrison the world however the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth will still be allowed to recruit from and send cadets to the Allison MechWarrior Institute and the Lloyd-Marik Aerospace School.
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Oriente Protectorate Counter-Attack
Capellan border, Capella Commonality
3rd October 3081
Sick of being pushed around by the Capellans the Oriente Protectorate the Protectorate launches a counter attack against the Capellans retaking Carbonis with the Ducal Guard and the First Oriente Hussars expecting heavy resistance the Oriente forces were surprised to find only the Fifteenth Dracon Regiment. Taking out their anger the Oriente ground forces surrounded and destroyed the Capellan unit to the man.
A day later pushing forward the Eighth Orloff Grenadiers and the Second Halas Militia invaded Bithinia just over the border striking at the Third Canopian Light Horse Regiment. After a thirteen day burn in system they arrived at the planet. Although they had double the numbers the Eighth Orloff Grenadiers were so green it was embarrassing. This showed when the Eighth fell apart in combat and had to be pulled through by the Second Halas Militia. The Third Canopian retreated constantly falling back within the Bithinain Ballistics Refinery and factory complex using its defences however without support and without transport off world the Canopian troops had little chance and the world was lost.
Soon after the Second and Third Bigade of the Fusiliers of Oriente strike at Ingersoll and find it completely undefended taking the world within six hours.
Bridge, Leviathan (Leviathan 2-class Battleship)
Romulus, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
9th October 3081
The Leviathan emerged from what seemed to be the longest jump in the history of Jump travel just as the ship fully exited Jump space the navigation console exploded “Report!â€
“Navigation sensors have been destroyed; unable to verify star locations, looks like some sort of overload. Investigatingâ€
“Verify by the starsâ€
“Star Admiral, we are being hailed by the Space Hunter and Tracyâ€
“What are they doing in our space?â€
“They are demanding to know why we are in their spaceâ€
“In their space, we’ll show them not to invade our Dominion then insult our forces. Prepare all weaponsâ€
“The Tracy has fired on us, forward weapons only, Space Hunter has joined battle.†The Tracy, an Essex-class Destroyer, the Space Hunter, Lola III-class vessel, two respectful vessels but nothing compared to the Leviathan 2 under the Ghost Bears. Because of the sheer size of the two-point-five million tonnes of WarShip under the Ghost Bears they could not even feel the impacts of the weapons fire.
“Forward guns, take down the Tracy port side guns concentrate on the Space Hunter. Conventional weapons cut down every single aerospace fighter.†The Leviathan’s weapons opened fire almost en-masse, within a single salvo the Tracy had lost one of its forward auto cannons, almost every aerospace fighter had fallen from the sky and the Space Hunter had lost both its forward thrusters.
“Star Admiral!†The sensor officer screamed as the Hell’s Horses WarShips continued to fire on the Leviathan.
“What is it?†The Admiral demanded
“We are in the Romulus system, Hell’s Horses Occupied space.â€
“What? How is this possible?â€
“A miss jump? It is the only explanation; the Hell’s Horses probably think this is an invasion.â€
“Communications contact the Tracy and Space Hunter inform them we are willing to stand down, there has been a navigation error. Helm move us defensively, weapons try to block the weapons fire.†As another barrage of weapons stuck the Leviathan the massive vessel was just too large to avoid the fire from the two destroyers. “Communications add to that communication that if the Tracy and Space Hunter want to continue this fight Leviathan is more than capable and weapons are locked. Combat have all fighters remain in cubes but be ready to launch just encase the Horses decide to push this.â€
“Both Hell’s Horses vessels have stopped firing†sensors reported
“Helm give them some wriggle room, communications broadcast that we will leave the system as soon as is possibly given current damage to navigation. Navigation tell me it won’t take long.â€
“It won’t Star Admiral†three hours to be exact then the Leviathan began the long journey home.
Royal Palace Lawn
St Ives, St Ives Compact
12th November 3081
Returning to St Ives to officially take on his duties as Duke of St Ives and Prime Minister of the St Ives Compact Duke David Allard-Liao stepped out onto the lawn of the royal palace and looked into the sky with a smile. This job he’d never really wanted, he knew his father had not wanted it either but the universe did not ask you how you wanted things to work out.
Turning to head back inside the Royal Palace David heard a crack in the distance, he didn’t even have time to turn around to look for where the noise came from because moments later he was on the ground and he was bleeding. David didn’t like pain but now he felt it and a warm pool starting to form under him, he was also not a medical doctor but he knew that the growing pool was from a fatal wound. In the background heard security officers scream for medics however David knew he was beyond their help and surrendered himself to oblivion and passed out.
Following this assassination David’s younger sister Melissa is named the new Duchess of St Ives on the 20th December. Melissa had spent many years behind the scenes assisting in the administration of the St Ives Compact. One of Melissa’s first acts is to accept an offer from First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion to deploy five Fox Teams into the St Ives Compact hunting Capellan agents.
Outskirts of Unity City
North America, Terra
Star League Protectorate
21st December 3081
In a base just outside the rebuilding Unity City in North America a brand-new BattleMech walked out of its hanger embezzled on its left shoulder arm joint was the insignia of the Royal Black Watch with a ‘2’ in the lower half of the insignia. It was the First BattleMech of the Second Royal Black Watch Regiment. So far the unit was only a Battalion in strength it is planned for the unit to be raised as a full Regimental Brigade flushing out the Royal Black Watch Division.
Bridge, Blood Oath (Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser)
Alfirk, Deep Periphery
22nd December 3081
Emerging into the Alfirk system the Blood Oath, a Nova Cat Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, began to scan the system. There wasn’t much to be bothered by in the system the Nova Cats had travelled here before but this was but a stopping point for them heading into Jarnfolk territory.
“Two JumpShips both Invader-class vessels detected. One is deploying a DropShip†the sensor operator reported “Sir, it is a Carrier-class DropShip†he continued naming the primary Clan type of aerospace carrier.
“A Clan vessel? Perhaps these merchants have something worthwhile looking at. Communications contact them; add if they refuse our communications our Naval Autocannons are primed and ready to fire. Air Group, launch fighters. Weapons prime forward cannons.†Star Commodore Arden Bavros ordered in quick succession moments later a face appeared on his communication screen behind her he could see another individual with an insignia he knew. “Captain, I am Star Commodore Arden Bavros of the Nova Cat vessel Blood Oath, why do you deploy a DropShip in response to our arrival in this system? We have conducted no hostile acts.â€
“You are clan, we are cautious.â€
“One DropShip even the Clan vessel you appear to possess is little threat to this WarShip.†Arden said watching the DropShip continue to make distance between itself and the JumpShip. Once clear of the JumpShip and its Sail the DropShip began to deploy its aerospace fighters a mixture of Inner Sphere classic and modern designs led by two Wusun OmniFighters from the Raven Alliance Arden had only seen scattered reports of its capabilities. “And now aerospace fighters explain this.â€
“Not of my doing Star Commodore those fighters and the DropShip I only transported.†She said quickly before cutting the link.
“Another hail sir, from the lead fighter.â€
“On my screen.†Arden ordered moments later a helmeted face appeared on the screen on the helmet Arden could see the insignia of Clan Diamond Shark and that of Clan Sea Fox, now perhaps he could gain answers. “Pilot identify yourself and your actions, Clan Nova Cat and Clan Sea Fox are partners in the deep.â€
“Not on this occasion, Jarnfolk space is under Sea Fox protection as are these JumpShips. I would propose a trial your aerospace fighters against my own. If we are victorious you allow us to be on our way.â€
“And if not?â€
“That is your choice Nova Catâ€
“As you wish I Star Commodore Arden Bavros declare a Trial of Possession for both your JumpShips, their crews and attending DropShips including the Sea Fox force.†He said with the planet habitable he wasn’t leaving anything out to chance. “I bid two stars of aerospace fighters and the Blood Oath as my opening bid.†He said immediately taking his DropShips away.
“I am Star Commander Finn Nagasawa of the Faulk Khanate of Clan Sea Fox I bid ten aerospace fighters and one Carrier DropShip as my first bid.â€
“I counter that bid with twelve aerospace fighters.†Bavros said removing the Blood Oath from the trial.
“I bid four Aerospace fighters.†The Sea Fox pilot countered.
“I also bid four fighters.†Bavros finished matching the Sea Fox he couldn’t imagine them going any lower.
“I accept this challenge launch your fighters I am ready now. The codex information is being transmitted now.†The Sea Fox pilot said moments later four biographies of pilots appeared on his monitors along with four fighters two Wusun and two 27b-type Sabre Aerospace fighters both of Star League vintage.
“I am also transmitting data†Bavros said transmitting data of his two lead pilots as the four OmniFighters launched from the Blood Oath’s underside. Two seventy-five ton Sabutais and two Sulla OmniFighters both heavier than their opponents carrying both more weapons and armour.
From the command bridge Bavros watched as the two heavier Sabutai fighters opened fire with massed forward firing lasers. Almost immediately one of the Sabre’s was badly damaged and taken out of the fight. The second Sabre charged in towards the two heavier fighters only to be caught by a pair of heavy auto cannons which tore one wing completely from the craft’s fuselage.
The two Wusun’s charged in closer however engaging the Sullas and although the fifty-five ton machines were impressive with good speed and armour to compliment their weapons the Sulla pilots were better and their machines more manoeuvrable. With almost a simple flick one Sulla was behind its target massed pulse lasers and missiles followed cutting the back of the Wusun to pieces.
The other Wusun had been able to fend off its attacker better but was taking heavy damage engaging the other Sulla however its combined short range missiles and lasers were causing an equal amount of damage, enough to disable its target. Unfortunately as the Wusun turned away towards its next target one of the Sabutai fighters lanced through its engine compartment with a massed laser blast disabling the craft although it had weapons the pilot had no means of directing them. This fight was over.
Hours later the Nova Cats had moved over to the two captured JumpShips with the Carrier re-docked, the disabled Wusun brought aboard the Blood Oath taken as Isorla from the battle, the fighter would be something worth studying to see how far along the Snow Ravens had come since coming to the Inner Sphere. The Sea Fox crew were unhappy at being captured by the Nova Cats who had long been their allies but acknowledged the fact that they had begun combat by launching their fighters. With Elemental troops aboard watching the JumpShip crews every move the Blood Oath began to lead both vessels back to the Nova Cat’s Den, perhaps the Nova Cats could get some answers.
Finished 3081 hope you enjoyed
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Now straight into 3082
3082
Pirate Point
Safe Port, Sirdar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
4th January 3082
Silently there was a flash in the Safe Port system, a border world with the St Ives Compact, normally there was occasional traffic through the system especially when the Federated Suns assisted the St Ives’ defence. However no-one used the little known pirate point in the system it was too far out to be important but just encase the Federated Suns deployed several surveillance satellites to the system to make sure any entry was noticed.
On the morning of January 4th these little used satellites all activated broadcasting images back to Safe Port and to Sirdar as a seven hundred-and-fifty tonne WarShip entered the system. The ship detects and ignores the satellites deploying a pair of Aurora-class DropShips as escorts before heading towards the planet of Safe Port.
Border Skirmish
Victoria, Sindar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
8th January 3082
With all Federated Suns eyes on Safe Port the Capellan Confederation took a gamble and struck the Federated Suns at one of their most recent acquired targets Victoria. Launching the CCSS Chancellor’s Pride, their mighty Thera-class Carrier, escorted by the CCSS Anhui and the CCSS Ion Rush, two Impavido-class Destroyers the Capellan’s Dynasty Guard, Pyr’s Hussars, St Cry’s Armoured Cavalry, the Second Revanthir Cuirassiers Regiments all attacked Victoria.
Defending the system the WarShips FSS Maria Davion and the FSS Cunningham, both Davion Block III-class Destroyers, and the FSS John Gordon, a Congress Block II Frigate, stood ready to meet the Capellans however none were prepared for the amount of fighters the Capellans brought to the battle. At the Nadir point the FSS Maria Davion engaged all three Capellan WarShips as they emerged through she was able to do telling damage on the CCSS Anhui she was eventually overwhelmed by fire from Capellan fighters and assault DropShips.
Although this opening battle forced the Anhui to remain at the Nadir point it allowed the rest of the forces to carry on in system. Nearer the planet three days later the Capellan fleet encounters the Cunningham. Like the Maria Davion this second Davion III-class Destroyer is quickly overwhelmed by Capellan Aerospace Fighters and is left to drift out of control as the crew abandons ship.
Finally on the 16th the Capellan force reaches the planet on the surface they discover the Ninth Syrtis Fusiliers Regiment and the Iron Will Mercenary unit defending the entrances to Victoria’s domed cities and underground entry ways. Dropping in the middle of a huge storm whilst Davion forces sheltered from the winds Jason Zaklan and his Youling Zhanshi extended lance led the Dynasty Guard down first creating a beachhead while Davion sensors were down.
The next morning as the winds blew out the Davion forces turned their eyes to the sky ready to fight against the incoming Capellan forces only to find Jason Zaklan engage them on the ground with the Dynasty Guard. As a massive battle erupted at the Victoria Arms and Technology Academy between the Dynasty Guard and the Ninth New Syrtis Fusiliers the rest of the Capellan force landed in and around the facility and at the base of the Iron Will unit.
Outnumbered and suddenly with enemies behind and all around them the Ninth New Syrtis folded quickly with less than a Battalion escaping to link up with similarly retreating Iron Will units. The Capellans secured Victoria Arms and Technology early on the 17th just before a new storm blew in forcing the Capellans to hunker down. The remains of the Ninth New Syrtis Fusiliers and Iron Will took refuge in one of Victoria’s many underground highways charging east to the spaceport still held by Davion Militia Infantry and armour. Unable to interdict them on the ground Jason Zaklan ordered his orbiting WarShips to fire on the location of the highway from orbit planning on burying the retreating Davion troops. Unable to see through the storms the WarShip Ion Rush moved to a lower orbit skimming the atmosphere to gain a better visual on the ground.
At the moment of the Ion Rush’s movement out of place the FSS John Gordon returned from a deep system patrol, timing couldn’t have been better. Coming in on a High-G burn the John Gordon made its arrival with six Kraken-T Missile strikes against the Chancellor’s Pride its back turned to the incoming Congress. As the John Gordon closed Naval Autocannons roared out hitting the Chancellor’s Pride causing heavy damage to its rear areas including propulsion and launch bays. Unable to move well or launch many of its fighters the Chancellor’s Pride turned away from the planet its massive conventional armament unable to return the fire provided by the Federated Suns Congress. With the Carrier taken care of and no longer a worry the John Gordon settled into a higher orbit than the CCSS Ion Rush. Above and slightly behind the Impavido-class vessel the Congress crew were in the perfect position using their forward heavy auto cannons the John Gordon‘s gunners struck out taking out several of the Impavido‘s propulsion systems. The Ion Rush had already been orbiting dangerously low and now with less propulsion Victoria’s gravity tore at the vessel pulling it further into the atmosphere. Soon atmospheric sheer tore the Ion Rush’s armour to pieces tearing the WarShip down into the atmosphere and to its destruction.
As the storms cleared on the 18th the Capellans charged out behind the Federated Suns and mercenary troops but it was too late close to the space port now and without orbital support the Capellan troops could do little but keep their heads down as the John Gordon laid down a heavy suppression barrage that held back any planed Capellan advance. Able to escape to their DropShips and with most Federated Suns officials with them the Federated Suns and mercenary troops retreated to their DropShips and off planet.
Three days later following the retreat the FSS John Gordon rendezvoused with AFFS escape pods from the FSS Cunningham. Unfortunately for the Davion forces they detect the CCSS Anhui and Chancellor’s Pride moving to secure the wrecked FSS Cunningham and are unable to retake the vessel or assess the chances of the Capellans repairing the vessel.
FSS Melissa Davion, Avalon-class Cruiser
Nadir Point Safe Port system
12th January 3082
Following the message of distress from Safe Port the AFFS Admiralty had deployed the FSS Melissa Davion, one of the fleets four Avalon-class Cruisers to the system to discover what the invading WarShip was and what it was doing in the system. Escorting the FSS Melissa Davion were the WarShips FSS Galax and FSS Andrea Petain, both Hound-class Corvettes, immediately the three WarShips began a burn towards the planet where the mysterious vessel had stopped.
Five days later the three WarShips arrived just outside Safe Port’s orbit there the WarShip still remained not moving. Within the command bridge of the FSS Melissa Davion Fleet Admiral Victoria Napier looked at the sensor readings “it appears to be a Riga-class Frigate?†She said quietly.
“Still painted as if she’s a Star League vessel, this couldn’t be the SLDF pulling a fast one?†Her executive officer wondered looking at an external camera feed.
“No they would have passed to us†Napier said quietly “Communications is that ship talking?â€
“No to us, Admiral, we are detecting communications to the groundâ€
“Location on the ground?â€
“Foundation Industries Headquarters building.â€
“Foundation Industries? A Mech producer small time if I remember correct Admiral, nothing major the AFFS only purchases a single run every few years.
“Communications to Foundation?â€
“None Admiral they are both ignoring us.â€
“Have the Dauntless ready to launch immediately I am joining her we’re heading to Foundation. Contact Safe Port Command if they are still intact ensures Dauntless has safe passage to the planet. Captain, if that Riga makes a single move towards you or the DropShip you are cleared to wipe it out of our sky.â€
“Understood I’ll have Galax and Petain take up flank positions just encase we need to make a move.â€
“Agreed but no hostile moves allow them to move first either against you or against me.†She said leaving the command bridge.
Soon after from the underside of the Melissa Davion a Conquistador-class Blockade Runner released and began to move under its own power heading down towards the planet. The DropShip was an advanced prototype there were only around six of them in the while AFFS Admiralty however Victoria had seen it in trials and was happy to trust her life in the massive seventeen thousand ton aerodyne type vessel.
The Dauntless accelerated towards the planet flipping onto its back just before re-entry it passed through the atmosphere. Unlike a standard Conquistador-class vessel the Blockade Runner variant was armed to the teeth with Sub-capital weapons and gauss weapons carrying none of the ground forces seen on the standard vessel.
None of this weaponry was necessary in the atmosphere however as Safe Port was still a friendly system. Two Corsair type aerospace fighters rose and joined them escorting the Dauntless to the ground dropping through the atmosphere the vessel was guided to a landing strip near the Foundation Industries Headquarters. Grounding the Dauntless was met by four AFFS Militia BattleMechs and several Armoured Personnel Carriers.
From there the APCs brought Fleet Admiral Petain to Foundation Industries, at the gates her APC was allowed immediate access and taken directly to the main building. At the foot of the main entrance hall CEO Michael Berry met the Fleet Admiral. “Welcome to Foundation Industries Admiral.â€
“Thank you Mr Executive†she said formally.
“Please follow Admiral; we have a conference room set up already.â€
“Expecting me?†She asked following him into the building it wasn’t exactly the typical corporate building feeling more like an expensive hotel foyer than a business building with soft carpets and wood everywhere certainly expensive. She was led into a small well air conditioned room with a single table surrounded by four comfortable chairs.
“We were certainly expecting some response from the Federated Suns it isn’t everyday this happens, at least for your sakes I hope not.†he said crossing the room pouring himself a freshly brewed coffee from the dispenser “a drink Admiral?â€
“Please, milk and sugar†she said Mr Berry smiled and poured her a mug of steaming coffee the smell instantly filling the small room “now perhaps an explanation.â€
“Of course, please have a seat†he said sitting down opposite her Victoria sat down on the seat provided opposite the Executive.
“The ship in orbit is owned by Foundation Industries its name is the Vidar, it was originally launched under the name SLS Markovian. It was deemed too damaged to survive a long range trip into space and did not accompany the SLDF on its trip to the Clan Homeworlds.â€
“And you just stumbled over it?†Victoria asked sceptical
“No we had more than a little help along the way both ComStar and the Word of Blake were paying several companies to search for these types of ships in the 3050s. We found the Vidar in 3053 in an uninhabited system approximately eighteen light years outside the Capellan Periphery border. She was drifting out of that system into deep space. We salvaged the wreck and turned her around back towards the jump points. Ever since we have been working on the ship the K-F Drive works fine we just had a few hick-ups along the way.â€
“And what of ComStar or the Word?â€
“Neither paid us anything, they just made promises that if we could deliver then we would gain great rewards. Instead since both organisations are now defunct we plan to keep the vessel as an additional force within our defence force.â€
“I think we both know that will be out of the question Mr Berry. The AFFS cannot allow an independent WarShip to remain within its borders the damage it could cause if it fell into the wrong hands would be unthinkable especially since it carries capital weapons and a K-F Drive.â€
“Admiral we are an independent company but we are also patriots we’d never turn our arms against the Federated Suns.â€
“I’m sure you wouldn’t but what of your successors or what if they decided to sell the Vidar to say the Capellan Confederation we’d have another very capable WarShip on our doorstep against people who would happily use it.â€
“What if we instead signed the Vidar onto the AFFS as a mercenary command?â€
“A mercenary command?â€
“Yes something like the Medusans, the Vidar is assigned to the Capellan March as an independent mercenary WarShip with an escape clause to return to Safe Port if this world ever comes under attack by a foreign or domestic force.â€
“You want to register a WARSHIP as a mercenary force with the Federated Suns? Why not go to the MRBC as well?â€
“Well then we’d have the opportunity to got to other Succession States and our home is here. I’d think we’d want to sign at minimum a five year contract, possibly longer.â€
“Make that a minimum twenty-five years and we may consider it.â€
“I think I can see that to my company.â€
“Then maybe we can do a deal.†Victoria said drinking her coffee now at a reasonable temperature. As she finished the cup she began to think just how she’d see this to the High Command and First Prince let alone local authorities.
AFFS Raid in Force
Victoria, Victoria Commonality
Capellan Confederation
18th January 3082
The Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment launch a deep strike into the Capellan Confederation aimed at keeping the defenders of Victoria honest and on alert. On Victoria they encounter several Dola BattleMechs in Capellan Confederation colours confusing the Wild Geese who assumed the design was an AFFS experimental design. The raid goes off without a problem and the Wild Geese are able to return to ALPHA Site without trouble.
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Zilang Unrest
Sirdar PDZ, Capellan March
Federated Suns
1st February 3082
In what would become known as the Zilang Unrest fighting and riots break out on eight worlds of the Sirdar PDZ including Zilang, Verlo, Zonzac, Menke, Frazer and Kafr Sailium. AFFS and local police forces are unable to deal with all the riots which appear to be motivated by poor pay and conditions in work places. As Sirdar calls for assistance from New Syrtis and nearby Ridgebrook the entire PDZ’s defences are at a lower level because of the riots. Following news of the troubles reaching New Avalon MI5 and MI6 teams are also dispatched to assist in local police actions.
Black Dragon Base
Kagoshima Prefecture, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
3rd February 3082
Months of intelligence gathering operations had brought them to today. The SLDF’s Second Special Operations Group, the Razors, commanded by Lt. Colonel Helena Cain, had joined the Draconis Elite Strike Team, the DEST of the Draconis Combine in this operation to eliminate the Black Dragon Society once and for all. The Razors were of three Elite Battle Armour Battalions trained apart from all other SLDF troops in the harsh environment of Venus, Mars and in the Terran Asteroid Belt.
Now they would forfill their purpose in the depths of the Draconis Combine in the gulf between Kilmarnock and Charity of the Kagoshima Prefecture the Black Dragon base had been tracked down. The DEST troops that were with her force numbered a Battalion of Mechs and an equal amount of Battle Armour supported by an aerospace wing. Together the two forces had four Battalions of Battle Armoured men and women, two Mech Battalions an aerospace wing and an aerospace trinary carried aboard the SLDF’s Clan-built Titan-class DropShip.
Helena had taken her Battle Armour and aerospace forces ahead leaving her Mechs to guard the artillery battery integral to an SLDF unit while her more than seven hundred Battle Armour troops moved into forward positions. The DEST were out there too making their own way to the target Helena and the DEST commander had decided that they would approach individually improving their chances of success. And in Helena’s opinion it would keep her people away from the near crazy fanatical DEST troopers of the Combine who, from what she had seen, had little thought for their lives. However not all people felt such a way. Helena had to admire the DEST‘s determination and dedication to victory and paying any cost for victory, a cost Helena did not agree with the any price but victory was something she could support.
From her Clan-built Elemental Battle Armour suit Helena moved slowly forward beside her stood three other Elemental suits of her squad. “Razors continue to move forward the DEST should be mirroring our movements on the other side. We fight until we meet them in the middle, remember your training stick to each other and we’ll all come through this together.†She said trying to inspire confidence in her well trained but battle inexperienced troops.
Up ahead her sensors were confronted with a mass of fire as the DEST Mechs arrived quicker than she’d anticipated supported by a small amount of the DEST Battle Armour “Shit! They have moved early, all Razors advance as quickly as possible support the DEST maybe we can turn the Black Dragon flank.†She said launching her own Elemental skyward for a better viewpoint. Ahead she could see trouble several of the DEST’s Black Mechs were down or under heavy fire from nearly two Regiments of Black Dragon Mechs, twice the expected number. “TAG units, call in our support units, all other units pick targets and engage.â€
“Colonel, they are twice the number we were advised on†Major Michael Kennedy commander of the Second Special Operations Battalion.
“We push on Major, if we retreat now then they will run us down after they are finished with the DEST we need to push on. Find the Combine Survivors and regroup. Razors push on!†She commanded as the first SLDF artillery strikes landed guided by SLDF TAG lasers. The artillery strikes landed in the centre of the Black Dragon forces shattering several Mechs however the Black Dragons continued to hold numbers and position.
“Assault units form a beachhead in their lines.â€
“Understood moving in†Major James Redpath answered charging forward with his platoon of Fenrir Quad Battle Armour. The twelve Lyran built Battle armour troopers each carried impressive firepower and speed in exchange of armour. Near the centre of the Black Dragon formation a Marauder BattleMech which looked like it had seen many battles turned and fired its twin particle canons into the approaching Fenrirs in moments three of the Fenrirs had fallen, the follow up smaller lasers of the Marauder cut down two more Fenrirs. Helena watching as five of her people had been cut down had picked her first target.
Launching her Elemental forward thirty metres her targeting system showed she was in range and fired her first two Short Range Missiles her squad mates each fired two of their own missiles, eight missiles spun out at the enemy BattleMech. Six of the missiles, one of Helena’s, struck the Marauder causing damage across the heavy Mech. To the left the Fenrirs continued to press forward causing more damage to multiple Mechs. Ignoring Helena’s Elementals the Marauder turned and fired on the Fenrirs again cutting down more of their number Helena heard a familiar scream as James Redpath was killed in the barrage.
Colonel Cain launched skyward again with her Elemental launching her second and final pair of SRMs as did the rest of her squad. Again the Marauder was peppered by fire but it continued to press eliminating almost all of the remaining Fenrirs. Jumping again Cain closed on the Marauder now in range with her last remaining ranged weapon her small laser. Unfortunately the Marauder had other plans stomping forward it charged her squad of Elementals. Catching them mid-air the Marauder swung its arms swatting one trooper, the huge PPC ending arm slammed into the Battle Armour suit sending the rocket powered trooper far off course out of control. Cain fired her laser at the huge Mech now at point blank range she had no chance of missing however the laser was the smallest mounted on any combat battle suit, armoured vehicle or Mech. Against the Marauder it barely burned away more than a single armour plate. The Marauder was more brutal in its fire a torso mounted SRM launcher peppered the suits with fire destroying one of the Elementals in a single salvo while one of the PPCs fired again destroying another of her squad in a single instant. Suddenly Colonel Cain was along her squad dead or disabled and the Marauder continued to stand defiant till the end.
“All Razors retreat fall back, support we need barrages of fire on my location in thirty seconds.†She said calling in orders as she launched her suit into the air once more in retreat.
“Colonel you could get caught in the barrage.â€
“Negative, I am retreating barrage now!†She said “all Razors and DEST units fall back position Zulu-139-Omega execute.†She said broadcasting to all in the area as she launched skyward again. A short range missile impacting where she’d launched from. This operation had gone to hell now the Razors had to think about survival. Jumping again she felt the first artillery barrages strike the area she didn’t turn to see what was hit she just prepared herself for the next jump. Soon after SLDF Mechs arrived with VTOLs in support ready to aid in her forces egress, however that could only happen once they were clear of the Dragons which could take a while. Colonel Cain ignored everything around her not even trying to engage the Black Dragons she just kept jumping keeping pace with others of her unit she did not want to think how bad the casualty list would be.
The Black Dragons gave up pursuit three hours later leaving the SLDF forces to escape to their second alternate point. When they rendezvoused over two hundred of their Battle Armour, one VTOL and two Mechs were missing. Only half of the DEST had made the meeting, suddenly the SLDF were the hunted.
Zilang Unrest
Sirdar PDZ, Capellan March
Federated Suns
8th February 3082
Under the aegis of peacekeepers Capellan Confederation hired mercenaries land on the Federated Suns worlds of Verlo and Zonzac ending the riots as peacefully as possible. Surprisingly the riots break-up suspiciously quickly however the AFFS are unable to counter the Capellan move due to further riots reported on the worlds of Glentworth, Velhas and Uravan. Because the troops used are mercenary forces the AFFS does not move against them, seeing two worlds as easy to recapture, instead concentrating on the rest of the ongoing crisis.
Safe Port, Zilang Unrest
Sirdar PDZ, Capellan March
Federated Suns
12th February 3082
Unlike many of the worlds of the Sirdar PDZ the system of Safe Port, home of Foundation Industries, had escaped major trouble with the Vidar, Foundation Industries own refitted Riga-class Frigate in the system, providing more protection there was little worry for the security of the area.
Even this peace could not continue however as the CCSS Highspire, the Capellan Confederation’s newest Tikonov-class Carrier, jumped into the system and engaged began sending out fighters throughout the system engaging the Vidar and other Davion units. The Vidar had agreed to defend the Federated Suns as well as Foundation Industries and headed out to engage the Capellan Carrier. Supporting the Vidar was two squadrons of Overlord A3 and Arondight Pocket WarShips stationed in the system partially because of the Vidar’s presence partially to support the Mercenary/Corporate vessel.
The Capellan’s Highspire could defend itself easily from the Davion DropShips Capital Missiles they were unable to break through the Highspire’s heavy anti-missile batteries so as the DropShips engaged the two hundred plus aerospace fighters while the Vidar concentrated on the Tikonov with Capital Particle Cannons tearing into the eight hundred thousand plus Carrier.
Although the Highspire and her fighters were able to damage the Vidar and destroy over half of the Davion DropShips it was unable to inflict crippling damage on the Foundation Industries vessel and the Highspire abandoned its attack retreating the system after two engagements with the Vidar. As for the Vidar it had proven its worth to the Federated Suns and would have far stronger support in the future.
Black Dragon Base
Kagoshima Prefecture, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
18th February 3082
The Star League Defence Force’s Second Special Operations Group, The Razors, and the Draconis Combine DEST force were stuck in a stalemate against the Black Dragons force. One thing they had confirmed was the Black Dragons numbered nearly two full regiments of irregular troops and that they were commanded by Duke Hasid Ricol, the Red Duke.
Since their botched initial operation Colonel Helena Cain had been able to bring the DEST forces under control and make them follow orders but she was still outnumbered by a mainly Mech force against her Battle Armour. “We need to stay together and on the defence until a true Mech force can arrive to support us.†Helena argued with the DEST officer in charge together they stood over the command table inside the SLDF‘s main tent.
“The Red Duke must not be allowed to escape. The longer we have him here the more we should press the attack.†The DEST officer stressed.
“Even a regiment of Battle Armour, which is all we have combined cannot prevail against two Mech Regiments.â€
“We have Mechs and Artillery.â€
“Not enough to make a difference.â€
“Perhaps we can help.†Another booming voice said as an Elemental Battle Armour suit entered. On its helmet it carried the crest of Clan Ghost Bear.
“Clansmen!†One of the DEST warriors shouted raising and firing a sub-machine gun which bounced harmlessly off the Battle Armour.
“Hold your fire we mean no harm†the trooper said raising his arm towards the DEST trooper but not firing his support weapon.
“Cease!†The DEST officer ordered his warrior before turning on the Clan Warrior “Explain why you have breached our borders Clansmen or you will face our wrath.â€
“The Black Dragons.†The Ghost Bear warrior said “I am Galaxy Commander Jocelyn Vong commander of Clan Ghost Bear’s Zeta Galaxy; I bring the First and Second Claw Clusters and the Ursine Boatman to this battle. We are willing to help put this menace to bed.â€
“This is an internal matter of the Draconis Combine; your presence here is a declaration of war.†The DEST officer said. Vong searched the man for a name tag or insignia but could find none.
“We are aware of this however your operation has failed. Your operation was scheduled to terminated twenty-three hours ago. There has been no signal from you to command to confirm this and by what I can see this operation is still an active one.†The Elemental stated looking at them all, its imposing stature enhancing her words.
“How did you know of this operation? It was classified at the highest levels.â€
“We have a source within the Star League Intelligence Command, a source which I have now compromised and that we will withdraw. We are here to eliminate the Black Dragon menace. My people are fully committed to ensuring that no further Black Dragon attacks cause damage to the Dominion. Neither of your forces have communications with your High Commands, nor do you have the ability to stop Black Dragon forces escaping this world, I bring you both. This is an alliance of convenience nothing more.â€
"Understood deal" Colonel Cain said the DEST officer's face dropped followed by a growing redness obviously unable to control his anger much longer. "We need their help." Helena explained trying to quell the man's anger.
"You have made a pact with the devil, we cannot and will not support this. You fight alone with these animals."
"Do not do anything foolish, we have no intent on causing your forces harm however if you harm any of my men I will not hesitate but to respond in kind." The Ghost Bear Elemental commander warned.
"The damage and harm have already been committed." The DEST officer said about facing and charging from the tent.
"If he attacks I will not hold by my people."
"Nor will he Galaxy Commander, just make sure my Razors do not get caught in your crossfire."
"Treat us as the allies we present and you will not suffer." The Elemental said turning to leave.
"I hope not." Helena whispered hoping she had not made a pact with the devil and soured relations with the entire Draconis Combine, that'd she'd leave to another battle one that would be fought between the diplomats with words.
An hour later the Ghost Bear commanders Galaxy Commander Jocelyn Vong and Star Colonel Sarah Kabrinski along with two of their Star Captains stood with Colonel Cain and her executive officer Major Michael Kennedy met for a planning session. The Ghost Bear firepower came primarily from standard Elemental suits reinforced by the new Ghost Bear Clan Standard Battle Armour and a small number of Hell's Horses manufactured Gnome Heavy Battle Armour. They also had aerospace fighters from the Ursine Bowman which could join Cain's own Red Team Aerospace Trinary. Fortunately the Black Dragons had shown no aerospace units of their own so far so the aerospace forces could perform bombing and strike missions.
So far they had been able to piece together two operations that would with luck crush the remaining Black Dragon presence on the world. "If we move them thirty kilometres east they will be on the cliff's edge then all we have to do is push and they will teeter and fall." Helena said moving her hand over the map.
"If you want them destroyed you drop a hammer blow on them. We deploy all our fighters in a mass strike campaign on their main forces. I will take the First Claw and drop directly over their main operations base. Second Claw and your remaining forces, approach from this direction and push them..." Jocelyn stopped looking at Helena Cain
"...Push them"
"Ambush, Down!" Jocelyn shouted throwing herself and Michael Kennedy to the ground, all around them the tent seemed to explode in fire as bullets and laser blasts begun flying Helena moved but not fast enough she was caught in the stomach by a laser blast and dropped like a rag doll who had its strings cut. Helena could not feel her wound or feel any pain all she could see the outline of a Void Battle Armour suit move over her, she could see the unique turns of its armour which made it the DEST commander's Caltrop suit, a newly designed variant of the armour.
The DEST trooper seemed to be looking at her then there was a flurry of motion as something flew over her colliding with the Void suit taking both to the ground Helena couldn't even raise her head to see what had happened. There was a series of explosions throughout the tent area someone picked Helena up and physically carried her from the tent dropping her down with a thud Helena could just make out the roaring bar head of Clan Ghost Bear before passing out from the pain of her wounds and blood loss.
Several hours later Helena Cain came too laying on a gurney still in mountains of pain she barely recognized the medic trooper beside her. "You'll be fine Colonel don't worry about it."
"What happened?" She whispered "DEST?"
"Aye that bastard of a DEST officer turned on us because of the bears him and a pair of his troopers so much being loyal to their Coordinator and realm, bullshit boss. Don't worry the Bears got all three of them, they are all as dead as Hohiro Kurita, now worries from them. You rest your fight is over." He said moving off Helena closed her eyes resting but could still hear the medic. "She'll be lucky to walk again let alone fight Major, that laser blast fried most of her nerve endings and burned a good bit of her spleen even with our medicine and even Clan medicine she'll be lucky to walk and command a desk. Sorry sir." The medic said Helena kept her eyes closed surely the medic didn't know all that? Then she thought no First Battalion's medic is a qualified doctor Jones? He'd know she couldn't be paralyzed she could feel her arms she thought moving her fingers slowly painfully and her legs?... No she couldn't move her toes. Helena heard someone come closer.
"I'm sorry boss, I didn't want your job like this. But I'll do your Razors proud we'll kick those Black Dragons into the hell they came from, and the damned DEST if need be. You'll be so proud, you folks are going to do this for you." Michael Kennedy said, Helena wanted nothing more than to open her eyes and scream murder at the man's little speech a leader didn't have to give the dead or useless pet talks they needed to take command complete their mission.
As Michael walked off Helena opened her eyes again cursing her position and how everything had turned out. She'd do everything the same again except maybe let the DEST join her command. No now she had to think her presence here would distract her troops, she couldn't let that happen to them. Moving her head to the left she saw her weapon belt and her standard issue Sternsnach pistol still in its holster, only one thing for it. She reached out but couldn't make the weapon it was too far, suddenly something moved beside her and a huge hand landed on her weapon belt. Glancing up Helena saw the battered Ghost Bear Galaxy Commander Jocelyn Vong, the left side of her head was black and blue and she was obviously heavily bandaged up her movements careful. The Ghost Bear commander did not say a single word just looked at the Razor's commander her expression blank before she lifted her arm and passed the belt to Helena. A short nod from the Galaxy Commander followed by her leaving the tent was all Helena received and all she'd expected.
As Jocelyn Vong walked from the medical tent back towards her Ghost Bear warriors there was a single shot that rang out. Jocelyn knew the sound well a pistol fired at point blank range hitting flesh, she'd seen people die from blasts on the Battlefield exactly the same and she'd seen and heard a warrior choose to end it themselves. As Star League Defence Force troopers and medics ran into the tent Jocelyn continued a slow deliberate walk, she didn't have to see the aftermath of that warrior's victory.
Hours later the operation Helena Cain had helped was launched as Ghost Bear and SLDF aerospace fighters began a merciless bombardment of the Black Dragon positions and troops. At the same time Ghost Bear Elementals of the First Claw dropped on top of the Black Dragons, the sudden presence of Clan Battle Armour in their midst’s through the Black Dragon warriors into utter panic and they began to split everywhere. From the west came the Razors and the Second Claw. The Black Dragons broke three times in an hour as the SLDF/Clan force continued to push constantly hounding the rebel Draconis Combine troops.
Six hours later less than a company of Black Dragons remained, their backs to a cliff edge, included in their number a red-and-black Marauder which the SLDF analysis’s had identified as the Red Duke Hasid Ricol. With Major Michael Kennedy killed in the final push Galaxy Commander Jocelyn was now the senior 'allied' trooper on the field, still in her Elemental armour, she gave the remaining Mechs a chance to surrender ready to see them face trial instead of slaughter. Hasid Ricol replied by peppering her position with two Particle Blasts before stepping over the edge. The drop was nearly three hundred metres, the seventy-five ton Mech began to tumble after a few meters smashing into the cliff face it dislodged several stones as it fell, these stones knocked loose more stones and suddenly half the cliff face was falling with the BattleMech. The Marauder miraculously landed feet first with a massive thud which must had dug a metre hole with the impact alone. Jocelyn didn't think anyone could survive such an impact, at least she hoped not, as over a thousand tons of falling rocks careered down the cliff face behind the Mech smashing its remaining armour and hull entombing everything for eternity.
The remaining Black Dragons surrendered without a shot fired after seeing the end of the Red Duke and not wanting to follow his fate. Using the HPG aboard the Ursine Bowman the Ghost Bears called for SLDF support not trusting the Draconis Combine after the DEST betrayal. The Razors were all but destroyed their formations crushed in the fighting, many would need critical medical care. Jocelyn was surprised to see a few survivors petition to join her Claws, something she'd consider perhaps these Inner Sphere warriors were worthy of the Bear. Jocelyn did know however Helena Cain would be proud her people had done their jobs their mission complete. Razors until there were none left or their mission was complete.
Police/Peacekeeping action
Federated Suns/Capellan Confederation
25th February 3082
With Capellan confederation line troops on Verlo, Jonzac, Uraven and Manapire in the Federated Suns Capellan March Star League Defence Force unit’s the Second Royal BattleMech Regimental Brigade, McCafee’s Marksmen, and the Second Sirius Lancer Regimental Brigade, Flames of Procoyn, are deployed to the region sending a clear message to both Succession States to stand down.
It becomes apparent that Capellan Confederation forces are digging in on the worlds they have already taken preparing for a longer conflict.
Landing Pad 16, McCarron’s Pad
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th February 3082
The last of the First McCarron’s Armoured Calvary’s DropShips, a Union-class vessel sat on Landing Pad 16 of Avalon City’s main spaceport. The DropShip a veteran of the retreat from the Capellan Confederation had sat on this pad for nearly a full five years never once moving it had become home to Elizabeth McCarron and a focal point for the McCarron’s troops and recruitment during their time in the Federated Suns.
During the last five years they had helped train Federated Suns troops acting as a Capellan OppFor in war games. They had also rebuilt to full strength, four BattleMech Battalions, an infantry Security Battalion recently augmented by a Battle Armour Company, which had been placed under Major Rinser’s Special Forces command, and two squadrons of aerospace fighters. Given generous prices by the Federated Suns who wished to maintain them in contract.
Unfortunately the First McCarron’s Armoured Calvary had chosen differently unwilling to be stuck in one nation for any longer than they needed to be they had chosen to go the way of the original Wolf’s Dragoons and accept a contract with every Succession State, except for the Capellan Confederation. Yesterday Colonels Elizabeth McCarron and Angel Bodez had put pen to paper and agreed a contract with the Lyran Commonwealth. Like the Federated Suns contract it was five years in length however this was a combat assignment along the Lyran/FWL border. And today less than twenty-four hours later it was leaving time.
In the Spaceport terminal Colonel Elizabeth McCarron stood with two others one a male dressed in the uniform of the Marshal of Armies of the AFFS the other a female in a comfortable looking dress. Both women had tears in their eyes and running down their faces “I can’t believe you are leaving us.â€
“Faith, it is time, you know as well as I the McCarron’s Armoured Calvary would have withered and died in the Capellan Confederation. I cannot allow a similar fate here in the Federated Suns. I can also not put my own wishes against those of my command.†She said wiping her eyes she herself did not think such a thing would happen in the Federated Suns but there were fears in the Regiment and despite her name and her standing with the command she needed to hold the trust of the entire Regiment.
“I know, I will miss you. Remember to write to me and keep yourself alive, you are all the family I have left.†Faith said hugging Elizabeth tightly.
“Nonsense, you have your knight in shining armour here and two more to keep you busy. All the family you need. Marshal, I thank you for the deeds of the AFFS that saved my armoured Calvary from the Capellans and your hospitality since we came here.â€
“The McCarron’s Armoured Calvary are always welcome here in the Federated Suns, remember there’s always a place for you here, even without the Regiment there’s always a place for family.â€
“I know Reinhart, it is most kind of you to remind me but my regiment is my home and my family as well and I will be busy enough taking care of them. Take care of my cousin.â€
“Try and Stop me Colonel†Reinhart said rising to a formal salute which Faith and Elizabeth followed “god speed, and good fortune.â€
“Thank you both.†Elizabeth said hugging her cousin again before turning and hurrying her step towards the waiting DropShips, as she wiped her face of further tears Elizabeth smiled finally her Regiment was ready for its new task. Her regiment, which sounded better than anything in the universe her regiment and her mission, had begun.
-
Trial of Position
Nova Cat Territory, Barcella
Clan Homeworlds, Kerensky Cluster
1st March 3082
“I am the Oathmaster and I oversee this trial†the voice crackled over the communication frequency. Grayson Nova Cat knew the voice well he’d met the man several times most recently when he’d arrived on Barcella after a long journey from the Nova Cat’s Den. Oathmaster Zane Carns had welcomed him and wished him well Grayson knew that he’d serve within Zane’s Alpha Galaxy if he was successful today, no when he was victorious. “Today we will see if Grayson and Luce are good enough to be Nova Cat warriors.†Zane said naming the two warriors standing side by side Grayson sat inside his eighty-five ton Warhawk OmniMech while Luce sat within her ninety-five ton Executioner OmniMech. Both were freeborn warriors however Grayson knew he’d been assigned an OmniMech because of his father Canin Rosse Khan of the Nova Cats. And because he’d been given an OmniMech Luce had been given one keeping the balance in the trial.
Against them stood six other Nova Cat OmniMechs their opponents. As was Clan tradition they would fight in accordance to Zellbrigen one-on-one. A warrior had to defeat one enemy to be considered to be a Nova Cat Warrior, two for the rank of Star Commander and three for the rank of Star Captain. Technically it was possible to have four kills however that meant either engaging your opponents Mechs or attacking your opponent either way it would turn all six Mechs against you and heightened the chances of death within the trail. “This is a solemn matter, these warriors must prove themselves capable of fighting for the Nova Cat, may no other enter this battle.†Zane paused for a moment Grayson quietly whispered the word “Seyla†as he waited. “Commence!†Zane ordered almost immediately Grayson’s Mech was hit by a pair of large class lasers, he turned towards his target a Shadow Cat OmniMech a forty-five ton design. Grayson tracked the fast moving design blasting away with a the pair of particle cannons on his right arm the first caught the Shadow Cat on the left leg, the second burned deep into the torso, the Shadow Cat kept running but was damaged.
Off to Grayson’s left there was a huge explosion catching Grayson’s eye, turning he looked left and saw Luce’s Executioner its head a core of fire as her Mech had been hit by a particle cannon from an enemy Huntsman. Grayson knew that Trials of Position sometimes ended in the loss of a warrior but was shocked it had come so soon, he looked at the defiant Huntsman barely touched by Luce’s fire and had to fight the urge to engage the Mech himself instead he turned looking for his target the Shadow Cat.
As he turned his Warhawk six missiles slammed into his Warhawk’s forward armour as the Shadow Cat ran past at close range. Grayson glanced at his armour, the Warhawk was capable of taking the hits and he saw no additional damage instead he pushed down his left leg twisting the Warhawk’s torso left tracking the Shadow Cat which launched itself skyward on jump jets. Grayson wasn’t put off by the move instead he hammered the two right particle cannons into the Shadow Cat and fired his over shoulder long range missile launcher. The first particle cannon went wildly wide missing the flying Shadow Cat, the second burned into the already damaged left leg tearing the limb from the Mech’s body. As the Mech continued to jump now lopsided lacking a leg the missiles slammed into the rear torso forcing the Shadow Cat forward, the Mech tumbling head of toes as it fell uncontrolled slamming into the ground sprawling over the ground not moving.
Grayson turned his Warhawk to face the wrecked Medium OmniMech but saw no further resistance from the OmniMech he turned to face his next opponent. His sensors quickly identified it a seventy ton Nova Cat, the namesake of his Clan. Of all the Mechs he’d hoped not to face before today the Nova Cat was one of them he wanted to avoid unfortunately it was a popular Nova Cat Touman heavy design and there was always a good chance of this kind of engagement.
Two series of green bolts from two large pulse lasers burned towards his Warhawk, destroying armour on the left arm, followed by a series of auto cannon strikes on the left torso. Grayson wracked his mind trying to think what configuration it was then realized it was the alternate C configuration the urban conflict configuration not exactly the best configuration of the OmniMech. Fighting back a smile Grayson was suddenly glad to be facing this Mech firing all four of his Warhawk’s particle cannons Grayson was hit by a huge amount of heat as their weapons overwhelmed his OmniMech’s double heat sinks. The Warhawk’s targeting computer was momentarily affected by the heat but it soon cleared as the Mech and warrior recovered. Moments later Grayson’s Mech was hit again by multiple autocannon hits as the Nova Cat fired again, Grayson winced as he noticed the left arm armour was low. He looked at the Nova Cat and noticed it was completely missing its left arm and much of its side torso armour.
With heat still a problem Grayson cut off his long range missile launcher and only a single of his particle cannons. The missiles exploded around the Nova Cat’s legs with only a few hitting home causing next to no damage to the heavy OmniMech. The particle cannon guided high by the Warhawk’s over heated targeting computer missed the Nova Cat completely. “Stavag†Grayson whispered turning the Warhawk sluggishly to the left trying to hide his Mech’s damaged left arm. The Nova Cat warrior was moving again firing its autocannons again this time eating at Grayson’s right torso armour. Grayson continued his course left twisting his torso he brought the right arm inline with his target firing two more particle blasts at the heavy Mech before continuing on. One particle cannon struck home but Grayson soon found the Nova Cat still active firing more autocannon fire into the back of his Warhawk damaging the weak armour there. With enough of the pecking at his armour Grayson turned at the Nova Cat OmniMech and charged the heavy Mech in a full run firing all four particle cannons as autocannon fire tore at his armour. Running at speed and firing his main weapons overwhelmed his heat sinks, the Warhawk staggered and shut down. “STAVAG!†Grayson shouted beating himself up waiting for more fire from the Nova Cat nothing came. Slowly the Warhawk came back to life and Grayson saw the Nova Cat standing less than sixty metres from him its upper torso a smoking ruin, behind Grayson could see an ejected pilot’s parachute slowly falling through the air and he smiled “two down!†He said triumphantly.
Within moments Grayson’s Mech was under fire again he turned and saw another Warhawk stepping towards his Mech “hell†it was probably the second last thing he wanted to see. Raising his arms he fired a single pair of particle cannons trying to manage heat. The other Warhawk returned with an autocannon followed by long range missiles, Grayson’s Mech was peppered by fire as the missiles exploded all around him and the autocannon splintered as it hit covering him in fire. Glancing down Grayson noticed his left arm had been hit again and one of the particle cannons there was damaged. Grayson ignored it, at least his heat would be lower, instead he fired his long range missile launcher and two particle cannons back cutting into the enemy Mech’s left side. Grayson cut his Mech left covering his damaged side as the enemy Mech fired again with two large lasers and its long range missile launcher cutting up Grayson’s right side glancing at the armour Grayson realized that neither side of his Warhawk looked any good.
Twisting his torso right Grayson slowed his Warhawk’s movement to almost nothing and concentrated on the enemy Warhawk, aiming at the right leg he triggered all three particle cannons and his long range missile launcher. The particle bolts shot through the air, two of the man-made lightning blasts tore into the leg the third exploded about thirty metres behind the assault Mech. Six of the ten long range missiles followed the two on target cannons tearing up all that was left of the armour there and causing damage to the knee actuator. The enemy Warhawk pilot fired its auto cannon and short range missile launcher again however their fire was thrown off as the knee actuator gave way making the assault Mech stumble forward unstable. The autocannon still slammed into his left arm tearing the limb from Grayson’s Mech partially twisting the Warhawk around as the limb flew through the air behind the Warhawk. Losing a weapon hurt but Grayson wasn’t going to allow that to stand in his way firing both remaining particle cannons hitting the enemy Mech’s centre line, there was a miniature explosion that followed as something inside the enemy Mech was hit. Already unstable on its feet because of the knee the enemy Warhawk stumbled forward before tripping slamming into the ground, its pilot shutting down the OmniMech almost immediately in surrender.
Standing there in his one armed OmniMech Grayson scanned for another target only seeing the still defiant Huntsman, Luce’s first opponent, not moved since the first salvo of the fight. It took Grayson several moments to realize he’d won the fight with three kills to his name. The communication system crackled to life “I am the Oathmaster, and I proclaim this Trial over. One of our number Luce has fallen, she will be remembered as a brave Nova Cat did all she could to fight with her fellow warriors. And we have one who will join our number as a new member of the 450th Assault Cluster, Star Captain Grayson Nova Cat you are most welcome to our numbers.†Grayson listened not quite believing it he’d done it, followed his father as a warrior in the Nova Cat Touman, a Star Captain he’d have his own Trinary perhaps now he’d be able to begin his own story in the Nova Cat Remembrance.
St Ives Offensive
Uraven, Capellan Confederation
12th March 3082
Under the direction but not the command of Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao the Third St Ives Lancers Regiment and the First Janissaries Regiment launched an attack on the occupied Federated Suns world of Uravan. Supporting the St Ives troops is Fox Team Eight which had been operating in the St Ives Compact already hunting Capellan insurgents.
A skilled MechWarrior herself Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao is forced to remain at the St Ives command base as the St Ives forces cannot risk losing another leader in a matter of weeks.
Within three weeks of fighting the world is liberated by St Ives forces. Although the world has only recently taken by Capellan forces the AFFS agree with Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao to allow the world to remain under St Ives jurisdiction as the world attempts to restructure again for a new type of government, the St Ives model is closer to the Capellan than the Federated Suns and the population remain closer afflicted to the St Ives. Fox Team Eight remain to eradicate remaining Capellan influences.
Inner Sphere Wide Announcement
Luthien, Imperial City
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
15th March 3082
"People of the Draconis Combine and of the wider Inner Sphere. Today I, Warlord Minoru Kurita, speak to you with the assistance of the Star League Department of Communications. I have a grave announcement, until further notice all travel into and out of the Draconis Combine will be halted. This includes all diplomatic, trade and all previously cleared visa entries. Any violation of these restrictions will be met by the Draconis Combine Mustered Society, there will be no warnings. I hope these restrictions will not last long however they will be in place until I and my advisors decide they are not required." He said before signing off.
On Luthien both Minister of Communications Regis Ferward and Qan Hagatomi of Sipher Communications are arrested by ISF officials under the command of DEST officer Akira Tormark. Both have been identified as agents acting against the best interests of the Draconis Combine.
Meeting Room, Terror of the Deep (Nightlord-class Battleship)
Tortuga system, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
21st March 3082
The arrival and presence of the Clan Sea Fox's Terror of the Deep, a Nightlord-class Battleship, in the Tortuga Prime system was not a normal event. Normally Clan Sea Fox trade vessels came to the system not a Battleship. The Sea Foxes invited a Nova Cat representative onboard to open talks.
"I am Star Colonel Cameron of the Nova Cats, what is the reason for your visit?" The Nova Cat commander of the Second Watch Cluster asked as he arrived inside the meeting room aboard the Sea Fox vessel.
"Welcome Star Colonel, I am Loremaster Semi Kalasa of the Sea Fox Clan. We have a piece of business for you. Recently a Nova Cat WarShip captured two JumpShips and their attached vessels and crews in the Deep Periphery. We would like to trade for them back."
"You would?" Cameron asked he had only recently learnt of the two captured JumpShips in the Varnay system still under Nova Cat naval inspection and guard. "What are they worth to you?"
"I am sure you are aware the Sea Fox Clan has maintained relations with the Jarnfolk, a deep space Periphery culture, these vessels belonged to the Jarnfolk and by extension are attached to Clan Sea Fox's assets. We would like them back."
"Loremaster, these vessels are now the possessions of Clan Nova Cat as is the tradition of the Clans."
"And as is the tradition of Clan Sea Fox we would like to trade with an ally instead of fight one. What would you like in return for these assets?"
"I will consult with my commanders and inform you."
"Of course Star Colonel, you may use the office in the adjoining section for your discussions. We have set up a secure link with your WarShip."
Two hours later Star Colonel Cameron returned to the room with a list of requirements the Nova Cats required for the two JumpShips. "This is enough for the Nova Cats to build a small factory."
"If these ships are worth something to you then this is our price." Star Colonel Cameron said quietly he didn't want to annoy the Sea Foxes but this was the price the Nova Cats required.
"This is agreeable, we will have the parts shipped to Tortuga with haste. How soon can we expect these ships to be returned?" The Loremaster asked Cameron smiled as he pressed some controls on the table activating an image of the Terror of the Deep and the Nova Cat WarShip. Moments later two JumpShips and a second Nova Cat WarShip entered the system.
"Your JumpShips Loremaster." Cameron said the Sea Fox Loremaster nodded her thanks, the Nova Cats and Sea Foxes had always been good trade partners respect had always been key to that and long may it continue.
-
Industrial Espionage
Ionus Shipyards, Loyalty
Former Free Worlds League
11th April 3082
Following the Regulan Fiefs assault on the system months previously the security around Ionus Shipyards had been tightened to ensure the yards were secure from external attack. Unfortunately this did little to nothing to help the internal problems the yard suffered from. As any large business could find there were disgruntled employees willing to sell things for a price the Loyalty shipyards were little different.
Fortunately for the Free Worlds League worlds in general the Capellan target was not intended to hurt anyone instead they looked at something that would help their nation. The six hundred thousand ton Britannic-class Heavy Freighter, designed and built just like a WarShip, with transit drives and a compact K-F Core, the ship was in truth a moving construction yard capable of assembling new Jump Stations, defence stations and fleet yards. Although completely incapable of servicing WarShips and DropShips the Freighter carried enough cargo to build a small city in space, something the Confederation had much need and plans for.
Family home
Dieron, Dieron Prefecture
Draconis Combine
14th April 3082
In his family home on Dieron Tok Do, a Tai-sa of the DCMS, and the Emerald of the Black Dragon Society is murdered by a masked assassin. There is little noise and no alarm as the assassin slips away unhindered. From the control room Akira Tormark knows that another nail in the Black Dragon Society coffin has been knocked down.
MRBC Hiring Commision Enquiry
MRBC Hiring Halls, Galatea City
Galatea, Isle of Skye
23rd April 3082
Standing in her best jacket Samantha Silver knew ever question the commission would ask. The three men representing the MRBC were looking over documents no doubt pointing to the Silver's Sabres origin, she quietly pondered if they knew of her origin as well. "Commander Silver, in front of us is some troubling evidence that the Silver's Sabres were not always what they are now."
"I'm sure your papers say many things Commissioner."
"Commander, this point towards your unit being a pirate band off Antallos commanded by your former husband the now deceased Vince Silver. However you are a mystery to us." Samantha involuntary smiled "Commander this is not a smiling matter we are accusing your unit of being little more than the muck off my boot."
"Of course Commissioner. However since you cannot track down my origins, you surely cannot pin this label on my unit. Perhaps we only share a name with this pirate band."
"Yes perhaps, however, two Vince Silvers forming two units named the Silver's Sabres. You are aware there is still a bounty on the Silver's Sabres for the abduction and presumed murder of a Davion Duchess from Bryceland." At this Samantha laughed out loud she couldn't contain it much longer. "Commander again, this is not a laughing matter, these charges are serious and the MRBC is a profit making organisation." Samantha stopped frowning and looked directly at the Commissioner.
"Tell me, what was the name of this presumed missing Davion Duchess at the hands of the Silver's Sabres." She challenged the Commissioner; he looked down at his notes and visibly paled. It's Samantha correct?" She said taking a step forward reaching into her jacket's inner pocket "Samantha Harland-Davion, former heiress to Bryceland minor relative to the current ruling line of the Federated Suns, although I must admit its been a while since I've cared." She said placing her battered Federated Suns Identification on the table the picture showed her thirty years younger and the words were badly faded however it said clearly "SAMANTHA HARLAND-DAVION" under the picture in the background the even more faded seal of the Harland-Davion family crest could be seen. "Commissioner, Vince Silver, my husband did not kidnap or murder me. I hired him because I did not want to be Duchess of Bryceland†she explained “I wanted to be a MechWarrior and I wanted to be with my husband. That contract was the Silver's Sabres first legit contract and ever since they have acted as a mercenary command. I personally don't care what they did before I joined them all I know is they are honest people earning an honest living. Now if the MRBC doesn't want to rate us, fine I have plenty of contracts out with you. So here's the little challenge what will it be? Another unit on the books that you get commission from or another merc unit you have no clue about?"
"I think" the Commissioner said looking at his colleagues who both nodded "we can rate your unit as a Class- C MRBC approved command." He said "is that agreeable, Duchess?" He said using her former title in spite of what she had said.
"Perfectly now gentlemen I have work together, pull your next case. I hope for your sakes you have better information on it than you had on me."
-
Clan Raid
Tamaron, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
3rd May 3082
Under orders from Oathmaster Zane Carns, Star Captain Grayson Nova Cat had taken his trinary, following two weeks of training to Tamaron the Clan Coyote Homeworld. There he’d declared a Trial of Possession for twenty-five brand-new Clan Coyote Procoyn ProtoMechs; the Coyotes had agreed to the Trial and matched the Nova Cat’s bid of a full Trinary. The opening volleys of the battle had gone well the Nova Cats had eliminated an entire Star of Coyote units almost without reply however the second round had gone against the Nova Cats with the Striker Star fairing the worse “Star Captain, after this battle we will meet in a Circle of Equals I have grievance†Star Commander Katrine said from her Huntsman OmniMech, the same Mech that had killed Luce during Grayson’s Trial of Position.
“Striker One, you will your circle but first we complete this mission.†Grayson said from his Griffin IIC 7, a brand-new BattleMech according to the Oathmaster his OmniMech had been shipped to the Nova Cat’s Den as part of a bulk assignment. Grayson knew his OmniMech had been reassigned because he was freeborn, there wasn’t another reason.
“Of course Star Captain†she said his rank with plenty of venom, Katrine had been a problem since the Trial of Position she thought he‘d only gained his position because of his father but Grayson believed that he‘d gained his position because of his actions.
“Striker One take command of Assault Star as well as the remains of your own you will hit the Coyotes left flank and turn it towards my own Battle. Battle Star we will hit the right flank, crush the Battle Armour and ProtoMech point before the Mechs. All units acknowledge.†He said a series of green lights as the remains of his unit received the orders.
Over the next hour the remaining Nova Cats successfully defeated the Coyote unit claiming the brand-new Procoyn ProtoMechs however the Nova Cats were not finished on Tamaron. Within their Union C-class DropShip’s main cargo bay the remaining able Nova Cat Warriors, seven in total, six others were in the medical bay too badly injured to take their place. Around them stood the remaining BattleMechs and Battle Armour suits of their unit. In the middle of the circle was Grayson and Katrine both dressed in dark shorts and light vest tops, “Star Captain Grayson, you endangered my unit by poorly picking the area of our deployment and by poor targeting data, I challenge you with this grievance.â€
“Katrine, I did not choose the area of the Trial the Coyotes did. We engaged the Coyotes as Clan warriors and your unit lost but we collectively were successful. The Nova Cats won, there is no grievance.â€
“I have a grievance against you Star Captain and your kind.†Katrine said clearly making her true intentions and reasons known.
“Katrine†Grayson continued using her first name she was unbloodnamed just like he a member of the Rosse Bloodhouse, Grayson’s fathers blood house “I will give you this grievance however I will require a ransom from you if you are defeated.â€
“Name it Star Captain.â€
“Your OmniMech.†Grayson said glancing up at the OmniMech it was the pinnacle of Clan Mech development and something that Katrine held over him despite his superior rank and skill.
“Your ransom is agreed and if I win I will claim your command.â€
“I will be dead so claim all you like†Grayson whispered low enough for no-one else to hear, he knew Katrine’s intentions. “Seyla†they both said together before dropping to combat poses. The two Nova Cat warriors began to circle each other in the cargo bay taking the occasional swipe testing each other’s defence. Katrine was the first to make a move a pair of kicks on Grayson’s left side he the first caught his left shoulder the second he blocked way retaliating with a punch against Katrine’s defence she swung away turning in a pirouette. Her move for all the flash and flamboyance was not the most effective and she turned into Grayson’s own left kick and a pair of punches. Katrine staggered backwards away from Grayson surprised by his attack, Grayson didn’t stop there however swinging in with a scissor-kick which caught Katrine under the chin throwing her backwards head over heels into the deck.
Downed but not out Katrine flipped herself back up to her feet, the two began to turn around each other. Katrine got in a few kicks and a punch however time and again Grayson out moved her and knocked the trueborn Star Commander on her back fir a second time, leaping in the air he landed on top of her and landed three more punches on her face and head knocking her unconscious. “This fight is over.†Grayson stated standing up looking down at her he shook his head then looked up “Nova Cats I am here to serve with you not against, we are all of the same Clan we all share the same goals, I do not want to fight you but push me and I will defeat you. Master Tech, reassign my Griffin to Star Commander Katrine, and her Huntsman to my command.†This fight was over Grayson hoped that this was the last fight and he had done enough to win them over but only time would tell.
Upper Atmosphere
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
12th May 3082
Lynn McKenna was sure she'd been in falling wrecks that moved more swiftly and surely than the Aeron Strike VTOL she was currently a passenger in. Recently bought from the Sea Foxes it was one of dozens of Inner Sphere VTOL designs now in use by the Snow Ravens however she was not here to rate the design or even her pilot. The VTOL continued to rise beyond the cloud layer until her destination could be seen "My Khan, welcome to The Lum Habitat." Her pilot said from the forward cockpit she could have piloted the craft herself however she'd wanted to be able to fully appreciate the SkyCity, which had been named in honour of the Snow Raven's homeworlds capital. "Unfortunately we only have the main section up so far however all four "wings" are ready to be attached and will be within the next couple of days."
"What numbers do we have?" She asked looking at the structure suspended under a flotation balloon which floated hundreds of metres higher in the upper atmosphere. She'd only ever seen three such facilities before one on Strana Mechty, one over Luthien and one over ancient Terra. It was an alternate method of living but for the Ravens a necessary one.
"So far she has a crew of two hundred-and-twenty-seven and can hold nearly five hundred lower castemen. There is hanger space for ten VTOL craft in the main bay landing zone is on the port side."
"Make an orbit of the facility before coming into land."
"Aye, sir." He said banking the craft to port bringing the Aeron into a wide turn she could see a Donar VTOL scramble from the landing pad as they closed within two hundred metres. By rights she knew the aircraft should be deploying far earlier however this was friendly territory and she knew the James McKenna was in orbit adding its strength.
"Incoming VTOL Alpha-Sierra identify." The Donar challenged as it moved into the Aeron's six o'clock position.
"Challenge Craft identify Sierra-Romeo-One." The pilot said identifying the Aeron by Khan McKenna's personal transport code Lynn McKenna almost laughed as if the Snow Raven Khan would ever have this puny aircraft as her own personal transport. Although she had to admit the pilot had merit in using it.
"Acknowledged and Understood, maintain orbit distance until control clears landing instructions." The Donar pilot said as the defence VTOL moved to the Aeron's number seven position just off the port side maintaining distance.
"All received." The Aeron pilot radioed back continuing his craft's turn. Lum Habitat was a boxy plate nearly one hundred-and eighty metres square, by what looked like around ten decks deep. On the port side there was the landing pad which kept the levels lower while on the starboard side there was a range of communications towers and a huge circular dish. "As you can tell we have installed a standard HPG relay station, the Commandant wanted a mobile one but they are all slated for WarShip and Command DropShip use."
"Of course" Lynn said seeing the connection points on the lower and upper rims of the SkyCity, the areas that would connect the SkyCity to its "wings" as the pilot called them. The Aeron completed its turn and the pilot brought the VTOL down surprisingly gently on the landing pad. Immediately "ground" crews wearing florescent clothing rushed out and began to move the Aeron into the hanger. Already inside there were six other craft, including the still orbiting Donar there were two Military aircraft and the rest various transport craft. Lynn unbuckled herself and climbed out of the opening cockpit. Outside she was met by the SkyCity's commander Commandant Alex a man in his late forties he was a former member of the Outworlds Alliance who'd been adopted into the Snow Ravens.
"My Khan allow me to welcome you to the Lum Habitat." He said nodding to her Lynn nodded back under her feet she could feel a gentle rocking movement like a wet-navy ship on the sea it was actually unnerving for the Khan she was used to the gentle movement of a WarShip or DropShip under acceleration. "Allow me to give you a tour." He said turning leading the Khan through the corridors which despite the gentle movements in the deck were far more familiar to the Snow Raven Khan. They looked and felt exactly like the corridors of a Naval WarShip. After travelling down a corridor which seemed to go on forever, the Commandant was explaining the SkyCity had several such areas which were all capable of being made airtight and secure. They entered the main command room. Akin to a WarShip the room was circular around a massive holotank in the centre of the room, here there were around ten Snow Ravens constantly monitoring the SkyCity and its surrounding area. "We can monitor the whole area around the structure, right down to the ground. There is nothing that can move without us knowing. Our communications systems can command all our attending VTOLs and more if required. Once the other structures are in place we will have up to fifty VTOLs at our disposal although only ten of these are likely to be armed. We will be able to defend the area around us and monitor all traffic in the area."
"However the station is completely defenceless itself." Lynn McKenna said it was a statement not a question she knew perfectly well the station carried no weapons it couldn't the structure wouldn't support them. "Do not worry Commandant I do not hold you or your people accountable for this I know this is the price we have to pay for our people to enjoy a normal life." She said cursing the Alliance population which had been hostile to Snow Raven born civilians in some areas. "Thankfully our ground troops have no such problems and are fully committed to providing support and defence if necessary. We also have WarShips that will turn the entire region to glass if we are attacked."
"Yes, Khan McKenna, however we should not fear attack from the Alliance, we are allies." The Commandant said he was a citizen of both nations and no doubt had a freeborn family in the Outworlds Alliance.
"I did not mean from the Alliance, Commandant. Do not worry the Snow Ravens have no plans for what I say I am only thinking out aloud." She said smiling "now I would like to see some of the living arrangements, I think I will stay for a few days and see what this place is truly like. My pilot said you would soon attach the "wings" I think I would like to see that."
"Of... of course my Khan." The Commandant said surprised by her statement however also glad for it, it was after all the Khan's choice to stay or go. "This way." He said leading Lynn McKenna deeper into the structure. As they walked she realized she had stopped noticing the gentle movements in the deck, yes this was a good path for her Clan's people a perfect roost in the sky.
Abess Palace, Black Luthien
Luthien, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
18th May 3082
Draconis Combine authorities announce that Abess Tomade Yamiro has passed away on Luthien dying in her sleep. Officially her death is classed as natural cause however the truth is she was identified as the "Tiger's Eye" within the Draconis Combine and eliminated by Akira Tormark's team. She is replaced with Abess Mara Selenica.
-
Ninth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate
2nd June 3082
During the Ninth Annual Star League Games on Solaris VII there is a surprise winner. Josey Boyd piloting a unique Mech produced on Arc-Royal which she has named the Slagmaiden trounces all others to be named the Star League champion. The fifty-five ton shield carrying, supercharged design surprises all others with its superior speed, protection and the firepower from its Clan made main weapon.
Atmospheric Scrubbers
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
5th June 3082
Three years after the first atmosphere scrubber came online the eighth and last is activated on Defiance, although it will take decades the results are already plain to see with people no longer needing atmosphere masks when outside, although most homes still have airlocks and the Martial Olympiad grounds still have contained grandstands, sustained exposure is still dangerous to health.
Dry-Docks 2, 3, 4, Shipyard Facility
Asura, Tikonov
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th June 3082
At the Lebedev Nautical Enterprises Headquarters there was a hive of activity around three of the docks as the three silent dry-docks were brought online. For centuries they had been used to build displacement hulls that would be shipped throughout the Inner Sphere and periphery, recently however more often engineers and scientists had been sent to the worlds where the ships were being built. Today that was not an option however as there were engineers and representatives from their customer onsite overseeing and assisting the Lebedev Nautical Enterprises engineers. Nearby in the Headquarters building CEO Teodor Lebedev stood at the window beside him stood head engineer April Hudson and a man wearing a black military uniform carrying the insignia of Clan Nova Cat.
“Star Colonel, we were surprised to receive the call to use Tikonov facilities even more so for you to bring Clan technology here to build into the ships.â€
“Clan Nova Cat’s capital has a lot of water, water tends to have a deepest point we want submarines that can reach the bottom of these oceans. However we’d also like to use them as cargo transports. We also plan to use Clan technology because it is easier for us to maintain.â€
“Without knowing the ocean patterns and depths Star Colonel this could be more of a challenge.†April Hudson suggested just as the Nova Cat Star Colonel handed her notes on Barcella’s oceans the Nova Cats had already gathered. “We can build these, the Verne Cargo Submarine is a close match which we could modify for your needs.â€
“We will provide you with the Clan technology required, as I understand the planetary Spaceport is more than capable of accepting our largest cargo DropShips. Whatever you need we can provide.†The Nova Cat Star Colonel said.
“I think this will be a very beneficial relationship Star Colonel, the Nova Cats came to the right place.†Teodor Lebedev said.
DefHes Proving Grounds
Hesperus II, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
14th June 3082
In the proving grounds owned and operated by the Defiance of Hesperus II factories on Hesperus II the First Hesperus Guards Regiment stood at attention. One hundred-and-eight assault BattleMechs, none were under eighty tons all brimming with the newest technology available to the Inner Sphere. Standing beside Duke Brewster, owner of the Hesperus II factory and liege lord of the planet, Keane Sortek General of Armies of the LCAF looked at the machines with a slightly surprised look "Duke, these machines are very nice but I don't see why I am here. Hesperus II produces new Mechs every day, all are capable designs."
"Ah yes General however these Mechs are a gift to the LCAF from the Brewer family. This is the First Hesperus Guards Regiment - Brewster's Legion - officially these are the family guard regiment however I turn them over to LCAF authority." The Duke said looking directly at Keane who couldn't stop himself smiling broadly, an entire regiment of Mechs and personnel for nothing. "They will of course have to be trained to LCAF standards and will need a garrison world."
"Where else but their homeworld?" Keane asked quietly he knew the Duke's motives and where the Regiments loyalties would lay. However, over one hundred Mechs could stand very well especially given Clan and Combine threats against the Isle of Skye, which raised another question. "Why turn these over to me and not Duke Kelswa-Steiner?"
"He would turn these Mechs to Skye and more than likely his Free Skye, which hasn't gone away only been quiet. I would never see these Mechs or their pilots again. At least with you I think I can find a man that I could trust with their lives and DefHes Security."
"You say this to the man who surrendered these very plants to Free Skye once before?" Keane asked reminding the Hesperus Duke of his actions when fighting the Seventeenth Battle of Hesperus II.
"Yes but you stopped the fighting allowing us to recover and then retook this world with the Archon. General your loyalties and capabilities are not a question for me."
"Then I will happily accept your gift. And the First Hesperus Guards will train here on Hesperus II as their initial assignment."
"A generous decision General."
"A necessary one, someone tells me a movement I thought disbanded and not a threat may still be around. I can never be too careful with my nation's primary defence producer."
Wild Geese Staging Base
Ingress, Capellan March
Federated Suns
20th June 3082
Sitting behind her desk Brigadier General Alisande Faulkner, commander of the Wild Geese stared at her all-in-black dressed DMI contract “you cannot be serious!†She exclaimed looking at the non-descript man “the Star League Protectorate is an ally of the Federated Suns.â€
“And even allies act against each other, in the last month we have launched four covert operations against the Lyran Commonwealth, another ally, this is how states do business.â€
“We are not corporate fighters.†Alisande stated she wasn’t happy with the DMI’s mission.
“And we are not happy with units that don’t complete their contracts.â€
“I never said that I wouldn’t complete the contract, I said that I wasn’t happy with it.â€
“Of course Brigadier General, just remember a Breach-of-Contract would not look good on the Wild Geese.†The DMI agent said turning leaving Alisande’s office. The Wild Geese Commander grabbed her glass and threw it against the wall just beside the door, the glass shattered on impact sending shards of glass all over the office just as Leftenant-Colonel Sandy Reich entered, he glanced at the wall and then at the glass before looking at his commander.
“Problems.†He said not a question, he knew as most of the Wild Geese knew that Alisande Faulkner was having problems with their DMI Liaison.
“This doesn’t feel right, there is something wrong with our contract liasion and with some of these missions.†She said “since when would the Federated Suns launch a mission against a company instead of another nation. If they wanted to hurt the Star League they’d hit it covertly with a Fox Team or even with the MIIO.â€
“It is strange, however the Wild Geese are officially off the AFFS books if we are identified as the attackers then there is no connection to the Federated Suns. You can’t get much more covert than this.†Sandy pointed out, ever since Alisande’s public falling out with the AFFS Quartermasters they hadn’t accepted a single mission from the AFFS High Command although they’d continued to be welcome on Federated Suns worlds. This made perfect sense for a unit working covertly for the AFFS but still Alisande was uncomfortable with the contract. “So what are we going to do?â€
“The mission, I have to put my own concerns behind me and the unit’s welfare first. I just hope I’m wrong.†She said raising from her desk “let’s go and get the unit ready.†She said leaving the office with the commander of the Iron Horse squadron’s commander.
Draconis Combine wide-crisis
Draconis Combine
25th June 3082
As the Draconis Combine economy began to buckle under the border and communication restrictions. Akira Tormark’s team launched an operation against LAW City on Guthry Island on Luthien. At the Headquarters of the Luthien Armour Works CEO Hoek Botterfield is apprehended by DEST troops while Tai-Sho Paul Omishita is killed trying to escape the island in a Dragon BattleMech. Both are identified as the Opal and Onyx in the Draconis Combine’s underground Black Dragon Society.
Across the Draconis Combine on New Samarkand Erik Nekatagu of Mangon Aeronautical Shipping Company is arrested at a meeting with members of the Yakuza. He is identified as the Obsidian as operations continue throughout the Draconis Combine.
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Press Conference
Timbuktu, Timbuktu Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
2nd July 3082
A middle aged Lyran Admiral stepped in front of a dozen reporters on Timbuktu. “Ladies and Gentlemen this will be kept as brief as possible. Over the past several months a previously unknown Pirate band Ward’s Hunters has raided several Timbuktu worlds with what appears to be a Lola-class Destroyer. I can announce that the Lyran Admiralty has successfully driven this vessel from our territory and that it is now somewhere in the Periphery near the Marian Hegemony and the former Free Worlds League.†He said smiling broadly “I will now take a couple of questions?†There was an uproar of voices which quickly bubbled down to one young woman holding a microphone.
“Admiral, Lisa Johnson Donegal Broadcasting Company†she said naming herself as from one of the biggest and most respected news services in the Lyran Commonwealth “isn’t it true that this pirate band under the command of former Archon, and member of Clan Wolf Katrina Steiner-Davion?â€
“Our sources would suggest this is so however by all accounts she is not in contact with the remains of Clan Wolf. Nor has she attempted to contact anyone within the Lyran Commonwealth or her family abroad.â€
“And isn’t it also true that the Lyran Navy have not had a single successful operation against these Ward’s Hunters since their journey through Steiner held territory?†Lisa continued over hushed silence few others had been willing to ask that question.
“We engaged them in the Son Hoa system, stopped them there.†The Admiral said quietly he knew well that it had been luck and the Lyran Navy had lost badly only Katrina Ward hadn’t pushed her position.
“Isn’t it true that it cost the Lyran Navy a Fox-class Corvette purely to save the Son Hoe system.â€
“Listen up, all of you†the Lyran Admiral said brining them all into his scope “the Naval forces of the Lyran Commonwealth are here to protect the Lyran Commonwealth and if need be die for it. The crew of the Robert Marsden died with honour to protect their realm and anyone who says otherwise will have me to answer for. This conference if finished I hope that some of your questions have been answered, good day.†He said storming away from the reporters, it was true the Ward’s Hunters had outmatched the Lyran navy in firepower but hopefully that would soon change.
Snow Raven Withdrawal
Lum System, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
8th July 3082
Deep within the Kerensky Cluster Clan Snow Raven’s second reactivated Kigamure-class Pursuit Cruiser the Thor made its first jump from the Snow Raven’s Homeworld Lum in the Clan Homeworlds. Surrounded by several DropShips all the vessels were crammed full of civilians and infrastructure ready to make the long journey to the Outworlds Alliance and the Snow Raven’s future. At the jump point several other Clan vessels noticed the Snow Raven departure and began to realize the Snow Raven plans for the future.
Intelligence Brief
Imperial Palace, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
15th July 3082
In an auxiliary room to the main throne room Warlord Minoru Kurita sat with Internal Security Force Director Ninyu Kerai-Indrahar and Lady Miyako Kurita, Keeper of the House Honour and head of the Order of the Five Pillars. “I have brought you both together because over the years both your organisations have served the Draconis Combine in their own way. Recently however both your organisations have seen accusation, charges and downright treason.†He said looking at them the recent arrest of Abbess Tomade Yamiro by DEST Agent Akira Tormark had shaken the O5P to its core.
“Akira Tormark is a renegade that must be brought to justice, he cannot continue his spree of arrests.†Lady Miyako Kurita said protesting against the continued operations.
“Akira Tormark" he said repeating the name slowly "has the authority and full support of my office and of the DCMS. His team will continue to follow leads they are given.†Minoru said he noticed that neither of the Intelligence Heads looked happy but that was exactly why Akira Tormark had been chosen for the duty and why Minoru held control over the operation, anyone up to the Warlord was fair game if there was evidence to support it.
“If Tormark has your utmost confidence then why are we here, sire, surely Tormark will find anything wrong.â€
“I’m sure he will however I do not want his team concentrating on your organisations. Instead you will both oversee investigations into your each others organisation.†He could see their protests growing “neither the ISF or O5P have been on the most friendly of terms however neither have you been enemies. I do not want you to be enemies, I want each of my intelligence agencies cleared of any Black Dragon influence and each capable of defending the future of the Draconis Combine.â€
“Warlord this could turn out badly for all concerned.†Lady Miyako Kurita warned "we must be aware of the rivalries that have plagued us as well as possible witch-hunts that could weaken us beyond capability."
“Things have already not turned out well Lady, the Dragon’s Heart is tainted, we must all work together to rid ourselves of these troubles.†Minoru finished the discussion both intelligence chiefs were unhappy with the plan and could see trouble ahead however the Warlord had spoken.
Nova Cat Command
Castle Randis, Hope
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
20th July 3082
During the revival of the Brotherhood of Randis and the betrayal of the Nova Cat’s Brotherhood Clusters Castle Randis, the former Headquarters of the Brotherhood had been badly damaged. Fire caused by stray BattleMech weapons fire and spoiler attacks by Brotherhood forces had destroyed the west side of the imposing building however the designers and engineers who had build the medieval inspired Castle had built it to last. Deep within the core of the facility there were still several meeting, planning, training and command rooms that could be used some in a diminished capacity others as if there was no damage.
SaKhan of Clan Nova Cat Ajax Drummond disliked the building it was unlike any military installation he had ever been within with high intricately detailed walls and sealing, crossed over windows obscuring views of the outside and closing off the natural light, what a waste. He could appreciate the traditional feel of the building but not all the waste, thankfully the rebuilt west side would have a far more modern Clan feeling. Once completed perhaps they could rip down the rest and rebuild the entire Castle in Clan design, then perhaps the locals could appreciate Clan design. “Welcome to Hope†Galaxy Commander Lucas Beckett greeted entering the room, the former Clan warrior turned Grand Knight turned Nova Cat had proven himself quite adaptable if not completely trustworthy although the Khan had seen fit to drop charges against him Ajax was not completely convinced. The man’s martial prowess was impressive enough however to stop Ajax from formally challenging his over these things, for now they would stand.
“Thank you Galaxy Commander, an impressive facility you have here.†Ajax said quietly having a good look around the room pretending to appreciate it.
“Not the most Clan facility but it if thankfully functional enough.â€
“And the recent damage?â€
“Fortunately it has not infringed too badly on our operations, the damaged area was formally a housing block for trainee warriors and teaching facilities we house the majority of our trainees deeper into the Nova Cat’s Den and outside the city.â€
“Do you think the Brotherhood units targeted that section specifically to hurt our warrior cadets?â€
“No they were indiscriminate with their fire, I think Amy Frews would happily have seen the entire Castle destroyed. We are ready for you in the meeting room.â€
“This is a reliable source?â€
“Oh yes, definitely the person we have been looking for.â€
“Good let us proceed.†Ajax said Lucas nodded and turned leading the Nova Cat’s saKhan down a flight of stairs to another of the meeting rooms inside the room already a civilian stood beside the table. “Ah so you are the creator of the HawkWolf?â€
“Hawk…the HawkWolf?†The man stammered over the name “yes saKhan that was many years ago, I haven’t been near one of those Mechs since the Brotherhood days before the Nova Cats arrived.â€
“I am unsure if you are aware Toocera but during the fighting with the renegade Brotherhood units several HawkWolf Mechs were seen.â€
“Grand Knight, pardon me Galaxy Commander, that is impossible†he said addressing Lucas by his past rank “the last of the HawkWolf Mechs were sold just prior to the Nova Cat take over. We knew that they would be useless for a Clan so we made sure they still benefited Randis.â€
“Toocera, Brother, we have found the Works Facility.†Lucas said “and we have plans for it.â€
“I’m sorry what does this have to do with me?†Toocera asked surprised “I haven’t touched a Mech in years.â€
“We know you had noting to do with these Mechs Toocera, the Watch's investigation was quite effective.†Ajax said “instead we would like you to bring the facilities online and producing HawkWolf Mechs for the Nova Cats and for trade with our neighbours.â€
“The HawkWolf is a primitive design it has no place in a modern military and especially not a Clan military Touman.†Toocera said although he had not built in mechs in years he knew the HawkWolf was primitive by even Inner Sphere standards when he helped develop it. “Instead with a little know how we could bring it up to Inner Sphere standards make it a decent trade design, and with the saKhan’s permission perhaps create something more special.â€
“More special?†Ajax said wary of the idea.
“A HawkWolf IIC if you will, perhaps something we could use within the Nova Cat Touman, something to give the people of Randis… I mean Hope proud of.â€
“Perhaps in time†Ajax said first he wanted to see how a trade model would fair then perhaps he’d led the man loose with Clan technology. “Now however we need to get this facility online producing standard HawkWolf BattleMechs. We can use these for training and for trade.†Ajax ordered.
“That I think I am capable of thank you for the chance saKhan, may I pick my own team?â€
“Some yes some no Toopera, we have a start and we will require at least a few Nova Cats to be involved just to ensure these Mechs are not being misused.â€
“Says the Clansmen who are in charge and have the WarShips in orbit." He said looking at the roof imagining the ships overhead "fair enough Galaxy Commander I can live under these rules be nice to make a difference again.†Toopera said shaking both men’s hands soon perhaps Hope built BattleMechs would fight again, in different hands but maybe some would reach the true Brotherhood eventually Toopera thought quietly.
Stone Spirit Command (Forbidden Palace)
Stone Spirit City (Forbidden City)
Outpost #27, Periphery
10th August 3082
In the Periphery on a planet that had been used in the past for darker purposes the former Stone Rhino and Blood Spirit officers, warriors, civilians, scientists and engineers had brought the planet’s copy of the Capellan’s Forbidden City alive with activity. One of their DropShips was linked permanently to the cities power grid giving more than one hundred buildings active power. In the centre of the city surrounded by high walls was the copy of the Imperial Palace which the former Clansmen had turned into their headquarters building, between the main palace building and the perimeter walls a Cluster of warriors cleaned and repaired their equipment. Inside the building in what would have been the Chancellor’s Throne Room there was several long tables covered in huge maps of the planet, the city and of the surrounding space around the planet.
“We’ve come far from the Clan Homeworlds and hopefully we have benefited from the changes that have been forced upon us however we cannot live on and continue to grow stuck on this single world. From our exploration and analysis it seems this world was a test ground for the Rim Worlds Republic during what we can only assume was the Usurper’s planning to attack the Star League Defence Force.†Tina Campbell said she was a former Blood Spirit Warrior and slowly she was becoming the leader of the rag-tag group of Clan Stone Rhino and Clan Blood Spirit Warriors and civilians who survived the retreat from the Clan Homeworlds. “Unfortunately we have also found that this testing ground has almost nothing that is of use to us other than shelter and the natural resources that would be present on any world. The Rim Worlds have left us very little of practical use here other than shelter, fortunately our Star League records show many systems that have “fallen†off Inner Sphere maps. My plan is to search many of them, in particular those that have significance to the Rim Worlds perhaps we can find supplies and things of use for our peoples use. The first target world takes us closer to the Lyran Commonwealth Delagoa, a former munitions production and supply depot world. She said the others did not complain, they were a hunted people perhaps the former Rim Worlds was their salvation or perhaps their further damnation.
Three days later the General Stuart carrying a Cluster of warriors jumped to Delagoa leaving the Unleashed in defence, though more badly damaged than the Samarkand Carrier the Aegis-class General Stuart was still better equipped to deal with any threats. A week later the Heavy Cruiser returned reporting Delagoa was a dead world most likely from an asteroid impact nearly one hundred years previously, the entire world’s orbit had changed forcing the world closer to the system’s sun which had turned the surface of Delagoa into a burning ball. A setback to be sure but not one that Tina Campbell would allow to affect her people, there were always other worlds.
Zenith Point, Sandra Rosse (Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser)
Radstadt, Rasalhague Dominion
14th August 3082
Deep within the Rasalhague Dominion the Sandra Rosse Naval Star of Clan Nova Cat emerged from jump escorted by the Ghost Bear vessel Black Ghost, a Fredasa-class Corvette. Immediately the Sovereign moved away from the other Nova Cat vessels, the huge Legacy-class Yardship opening its main bay doors and extending grapple arms as it moved. The Sovereign’s crew moved the yardship slowly towards the disabled Ghost Bear vessel Silverdale, as the Yardship approached at 0.25G it slowly consumed the Conqueror-class Silverdale after several minutes the Silverdale and the Sovereign were one vessel locked together immobile as the Nova Cat engineers began work on the Silverdale’s K-F Drive. The other vessels of the Sandra Rosse Star began to assume defensive positions around the two vessels ensuring they were protected in the event of another force arriving.
Cyclops Station
Bandit Territory, Periphery
20th August 3082
Across the Periphery’s Bandit Community there is much rumour as Katrina Ward’s Hunters are spotted on the Cyclops Station in the Periphery. Despite the presence of her WarShip, the Hanse, the Ward’s Hunters and their leader abide by the Cyclops rules and those of the Briton family signing several trade deals and repairing much of their equipment.
Alpha Galaxy Command, Spaceport
Barcella, Nova Cat territory
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
28th August 3082
“I will miss you Katrine.†Grayson said smiling broadly looking at the trueborn who had caused him so much trouble.
“I would be lying if this feeling was mutual Star Captain, I am glad to see the back of you and look forward to the Challenge of the Nova Cat’s Den.â€
“Of course, Star Captain†Grayson said continuing to smile, Katrine had recently been promoted and with promotion gave his a new assignment, the fact she was headed to the Nova Cat’s Den made Grayson the more happy. “I wish you well.â€
“And I wish you were dead, but perhaps someone will get lucky. Do me one favour Star Captain Grayson?â€
“Name it, Katrine†Grayson said keeping things civil he knew it would annoy her even more if he kept even tones.
“Do not die before I return, because I promise you I will and I will see you dead.â€
“Only in your dreams Katrine, safe journey.†Grayson said saluting her before turning and leaving, perhaps some time in the Nova Cat’s Den would do her well away from the Clan Homeworlds she may see the Nova Cats were flourishing in the Nova Cat’s Den.
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Upgraded HawkWolf created for trade by Clan Nova Cat's Hope natives
http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/hawkwolf-hwk-8n/msg24452/#new (http://ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/hawkwolf-hwk-8n/msg24452/#new)
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Severn Leroux (Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser)
Varnay Shipyards, Varnay System
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
15th September 3082
The Clan Nova Cat Flagship the Severn Leroux re-launches from the Varnay system shipyards boasting a refitted capital and standard weapons array along with a new command suite giving the Severn Leroux plenty of new capabilities. With Star Admiral Anders McKenna, the ship’s usual commander the Severn Leroux is tasked with a shake down cruise through each of the Nova Cat’s Den star systems to ensure its new upgrades are working at full capacity.
World wide pandemic
Trondhemal, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
1st October 3082
Following weeks of illness, panic and despair the Marian Hegemony declared Trondhemal a quarantine area as a world wide pandemic grips the population killing hundreds by the day. By the end of the first week long before any other nation can assist the world of Trondhemal is effectively a dead world with over 300,000 dead. Marian Hegemony units blaming the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby attack their neighbouring state causing fighting on several worlds. At almost the same time Katrina Ward’s Hunters strike six different Marian Hegemony worlds hurting several units.
Parley meeting
Illyria, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
12th October 3082
With Marian units on the losing side of battles on Hardisey’s Haven, Thadora’s Land, Blanteff and Maximillian and the Ward’s Hunters striking at worlds with the Marians unable to counter them Caesar Julius O’Reilly sent the Cyclops Station a message he wanted a meeting with Katrina Ward. Katrina agreed to meet the Caesar on Illyria,
Several days later the Hanse slipped into a high orbit over the world directly opposite the Marian’s MHS Lothario, a Galley-class Corvette. Katrina Ward and almost an entire Cluster’s worth of Clan-built machines landed on the world in a single Overlord C-class DropShip. As they set up defensive positions around their DropShips Katrina met with the Caesar. “Welcome to Illyria, I am glad you agreed to meet with me.†The Caesar greeted as Katrina approached the Caesar in neutral ground between the two positions Katrina immediately taking a seat opposite the Marian Hegemony leader.
“Make your intentions known quickly so I can leave again.†Katrina said her two Elemental armoured bodyguards standing almost five metres behind but no less intimidating.
“I would like to come to an agreement between my nation and your hunters to end these destructive raids. I am willing to offer…†Julius began but was cut off by a sonic boom as something thundered overhead looking up he could see a flaming object falling through the atmosphere increasing speed as it fell. “What on earth?†He muttered looking at Katrina who had a small smile across her face “What is the meaning of this?â€
“I’m sorry Caesar, I am not at fault, and perhaps your “WarShip†suffered a malfunction? Don‘t worry you are not the only one who suffers these problems.†Katrina said continuing to smile as her two Elementals levelled their weapons at the Caesar’s own Bodyguards and gunned them down “see that was my malfunctioning equipment.†She said looking at the stunned Caesar “as you are the host however it seems only right I suffer twice as badly as you have†she said raising her hand closing it into a fist. Moments later there was several deafening booms as Naval Autocannons were fired into the atmosphere soaring over the meeting place they smashed into the Caesar’s Legio I forces, the falling projectiles reaching nearly supersonic velocities as they smashed into the ground, a Union-class DropShip took a direct hit from one of the shots and was physically knocked over by the weapons fire exploding in a ball of flame as impacted awkwardly on the ground.
“What is the meaning of this? This is neutral ground a parley to end our differences not create new ones. You will pay for this I promise you.â€
“Oh Julius, I already am, your attack on the Duchy of Tamarind has cost my nation plenty already and for no reason.â€
“No reason? They poisoned Trondhemal killing the world’s entire population. Wait… your nation? The O’Reilly’s rule the Hegemony not you.â€
“Wrong again Julius, my forces are hitting three separate worlds other than this one today. Your remaining forces will be destroyed except your remaining forces on Alphard itself. And soon they will fall as well. Don’t worry young Rebecca will follow her father’s fate.â€
“You bitch! Leave my daughter alone, she’s done nothing to threaten you!†Julius screamed in anger. I’ll kill you before you harm hair on her head.†He screamed reaching for his sword which was still in his belt; this was enough for the two Elementals who both opened fire with their arm mounted machine guns cutting the Caesar down in a hail of fire.
“Or maybe I’ll keep her around as a sign from her failed father.†Katrina said her smile fading as she stood up “leave him to the crows.†She said looking to the sky already seeing birds overhead she didn’t know their actual species but it was apt and she’d leave them to it.
Parliament Building
Oriente, Oriente Protectorate
Former Free Worlds League
18th October 3082
When the Free Worlds League broke-up the Oriente Protectorate formed to protect the border with the Capellan Confederation Grand-Duke Christopher Halas was placed in charge of the Protectorate. Under his and the Oriente Protectorate’s protection the fake Thomas Marik’s children had grown up and the eldest Duke Jonas had turned twenty years old.
Under Christopher’s direction a direct copy of the Parliament building on Atreus. From there each representative planet of the Protectorate was welcomed to the world to help form the direction of the Oriente Protectorate. Sitting on the Captain-General’s chair at one end of the one hundred seat chamber Duke Christopher sat as young Jonas entered dressed in the captain’s uniform of the Oriente Protectorate Military. “Welcome Jonas Halas, and how are you today?â€
“Well uncle, why did you ask me to come here? This is your arena.â€
“Not anymore, son†Christopher said rising from his chair stepping down onto the room’s floor “Jonas Halas, as of today the position of Captain-General has passed from me to you.â€
“But, sir†Jonas protested respectfully “you are duke of Oriente, I am but a boy, I am not ready for this.â€
“You are correct Jonas I am Duke of Orient, but you are also wrong, you are ready for this job. It is the end of my time.â€
“But I have only just begun to learn how to be a leader, an officer and a fighter. I am not ready for this.â€
“You are Jonas, there is no reason you cannot remain an officer of our armed forces. I will remain at hand here on Oriente to be an adviser however it is time that you took on this position.†Christopher said forcefully.
“Understood sir, I thank you for your confidence.†Jonas said giving up on arguing with his uncle “I will intend on remaining with my unit, Politics will not take over my life.â€
“Ha, ha†Christopher said smiling “I can understand that†he said extending his arm towards Jonas who took it and gave it a solid shake “just remember you are not alone, Captain-General.â€
“Thank you, sir, I appreciate that.†Jonas said shaking Christopher’s extended hand. The older man then walked from the chamber leaving Jonas Halas alone with his thoughts.
Hanse (Lola III)
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
29th October 3082
A distance from the Hanse floated the wreck of the MHS Caesar; the Dart-class Light Cruiser salvaged by the Marian Hegemony, the vessel had put up a fight against the Lola III-class Destroyer however it had little chance against the former Ice Hellion vessel. Years of poor maintenance had cost the Caesar any chance of survival.
Now in orbit over the Alphard Katrina took her full fury out on the Marian’s capital world “Target the city of Novo Roma, concentrate on the Caesar’s palace I want them isolated but not dead.†She said looking at the gunner stations they followed her commands without question. Weapons fire tore through the planet’s atmosphere slaming into the grounds around the palace cracking the ground opening massive craters hundreds would have died caught in the blasts from the Capital weapons but the palace still stood. “Now contact the palace, have they issue an immediate surrender or suffer the consequences.†She said looking at the communications console.
“A surrender demand?†Sonja Cage asked
“Hopefully the Caesar falling into the atmosphere will be encouragement enough.â€
“Caesar†the communications officer addressed Katrina using her newly claimed rank and title “the palace declares they do not recognize your authority.â€
“Main guns fire, eliminate the palace.†She ordered from the Hanse forward guns naval lasers and missiles shot from the Lola III in a precision assault that wiped the marble palace off Alphard’s landscape blowing it to pieces. “That’s my authority, now communications; find someone willing to surrender to us.â€
“I have the commander of the Cohors Morituri, willing to offer his immediate surrender, and the local city governor willing to surrender.â€
“Excellent.†Deploy ground forces, Have my DropShip join us I want to join the ground forces. Sonja if anyone else unexpected arrives use all assets to remove them.â€
“Understood, and congratulations.†The Hanse commander said kissing Katrina’s cheek before taking her seat on the bridge.
Three hours later the people of Novo Roma accepted Katrina Ward as their new Caesar, an hour after that eleven year old Rebecca O’Reilly was presented to Katrina after being found by Hunters personnel. Katrina decided to spare her life instead naming her as her own daughter Rebecca Ward. Over the course of the next week Katrina Ward executes the remains of the O’Reilly family and all supporters of the former Caesar installing her own supporters in place. The Cohorts Morituri are allowed to stay within the nation’s armed forces as Katrina evaluates this disreputable unit. Meanwhile survivors from the I and III Legios begin to return to the Hegemony as the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby claim four worlds during this uncertain time for the Marian nation.
LCS Flygia (Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser), Secure Location
Tharkad System, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
30th October 3082
Deep within the Tharkad system Archon Peter Steiner-Davion stood aboard the LCS Flygia, the Lyran Commonwealth’s mighty Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser, however today was not about the powerful vessel or the DropShip squadron surrounding the area instead it was about a new type of vessel developed in the Lyran Commonwealth. Until recently Lockheed/CBM had provided the Lyran Commonwealth with DropShips and Aerospace craft both civilian and military however they had never expanded into new territory now they claimed otherwise. However so far Peter hadn’t seen much innovation or new toys instead things looked decidedly normal.
“A Gazelle-class DropShip? Not exactly a ground breaking design, I assume we could buy them from Federated Boeing if we needed to transport our ground forces.†Peter said looking at the large screen which showed Lockheed’s new craft.
“Yes Archon however that is not a Gazelle-class vessel. In fact that vessel is completely incapable of atmospheric flight despite its wings and the apparent design configuration.†The Lockheed developer said.
“Doctor Queen†Peter said addressing the man directly “what exactly is this vessel’s intent then? We do not need another assault craft.â€
“I understand†the man said looking at the LCAF naval officer hovering nearby “perhaps this will explain.†He said raising a personal communicator to his lips “Queen to LCS Peter, execute directive omega one.†He said the vessel did not move for several moments then in a moment the vessel flashed out of existence.
“Oh my god, it disappeared? A cloaking technology?†The Archon asked looking at the man who smiled instead of answering Queen manipulated the view screen viewing out from local space showing the Peter at the outer edge of the Tharkad system. “It jumped…†Peter whispered “but that ship is tiny it couldn’t weigh more than five thousand tons it’s impossible to jump something that small.â€
“No Archon we’ve unlocked the Star League’s Sub-Compact K-F Core that once powered the ancient Bug-Eye Surveillance Craft of the ancient Star League Defence Force. The Peter-class Scout vessel is the first such modern craft you could hide it within an invasion force and have it jump clear reporting troop strengths, have it scout systems while posing as a standard DropShip. Unfortunately it is incapable of fighting toe-to-toe with any other WarShip and would even struggle against a decently sized DropShip however combat is not its specialty. Best of all we can build it on a planet’s surface and launch it aboard a cargo DropShip saving the need for an expensive Shipyard. The Peter-class Scout, which we have named in your honour, is expensive however we have five already in production ready for immediate purchase by the LCAF.â€
“I’d like to have a closer look over the “Peter†the Archon said “see exactly what you have built in it.â€
“Of course Archon I’m sure we can arrange that.†Queen said. Over the next few days Peter Steiner-Davion spent some time aboard the LCS Peter. The scout ship was compact carrying very few amenities, firepower or a defence however that was not the designs intent, it was the ultimate deception a Jump Capable craft that looked like a DropShip Queen sure did know how to sell the craft. Overall the Archon was impressed enough to order all five of the new class of craft.
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Ninth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
14th November 3082
Standing on Terra at the Whitting Conference Centre Captain-General Jeremy Brett brought the session to order as the standing First Lord. He detailed the ongoing expansion of the Star League Defence Force and the reactivation of the Blake’s Strength, a ComStar Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, and the ship’s renaming as the SLS Truce of Tukayyid in honour of the ComGuard’s sacrifices on Tukayyid bringing the Inner Sphere fifteen years respite from Clan Invasion. He went on to continue to to confirm the Capellan Confederation’s votes within the Star League before abjuring the meeting as the Draconis Combine leader Minoru Kurita was not yet present.
An hour later each of the Succession Lords and the leaders of the fractured Free Worlds League states each received a message from Jeremy Brett stating that Minoru Kurita and his entire delegation would not be attending the Conference as the Draconis Combine continued to be ravaged by internal conflict.
Ninth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
15th November 3082
The second day of the Star League Conference began with several small meetings behind the member states before First Lord Jeremy Brett called a general conference Once each of the Succession Lords were seated Jeremy began to speak “Ladies and Gentlemen, my fellow lords. It appears our decision to allow Clan Sea Fox to trade within Inner Sphere has reached the other Clans.â€
“What actions do they plan against us?†Chancellor Naomi Centrella questioned interrupting.
“No Chancellor, in fact we have been approached by the Rasalhague Dominion requesting probationary admittance to this council.†Jeremy said breaking the news. Within moments the room was in uproar as each of the Succession Lords were screaming against and for the news. Archon Peter Steiner-Davion pointed out that having a Clan join the reborn League only legitimized its standing even more, the Clans after all were descendants of the original Star League. Naomi Centrella however screamed there would be consequences to the admittance of a Clan to the Council, despite the Capellan Confederation only just recently regaining its position.
After a few moments of the out roar and rage Jeremy was able to regain order looking directly at First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion who had remained completely silent during the entire episode. The conqueror of Clan Smoke Jaguar had obviously mellowed out since his early years perhaps the Federated Suns relationship with some Clans had changed his perspective. “If those gathered would act like leaders of the Star League we can discuss this like adults.†He said cutting at each of those who spoke “Prince Davion, you remained silent during this announcement I would hear your thoughts on the matter as one of the Inner Sphere’s experts on the Clans.â€
“Thank you First Lord†Victor said raising from his chair “I am torn both as a leader and personally over this matter. As a leader I know that having the Rasalhague Dominion join this Council would legitimize it far beyond the work we have done so far, This Star League was formed to face the Clan threat to have a Clan join it would show them that this Council is here to stay and can match them for forces, however remember no Clan Warrior, Leader or Civilian could ever stand in this room and properly join this council.†He said looking at each of them, his brother Peter knew what he was speaking about but few others did “If a Clan Warrior was to stand on Terra as a leader and an equal then the Clan associated with them could declare themselves the ilClan, with the Clan’s Khan a new ilKhan, we could have an instantly renewed invasion this time from every single Clan.†He said pausing briefly “I am also torn personally, I have seen the bad and the good sides of the Clans I have fought with them and I have dealt with them of all the Clans the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion perhaps are the furthest along the path to joining us as an Inner Sphere state however they are also still a powerful voice within the Inner Sphere Clans and that makes them as dangerous as any of the others.†He said sitting back down at his chair.
“Thank you Prince Davion, does the Federated Suns have a vote with this analysis?†Jeremy Brett said quietly continuing to look at Victor who again rose from his chair.
“It does, the Federated Suns abstains from voting.†Victor said calmly others within the room looked surprised at him abstaining most of all from his brother and from the Star League Defence Force officers present, however Victor had made a choice for his nation and because he could not decide himself what was the right course he would not throw the Federated Suns into either vote.
“Archon Steiner, could we have the Lyran Commonwealth’s vote?†Jeremy asked Victor’s brother he’d intentionally shortened both men’s names to make it clear he considered them to be separate leaders as well as brothers.
“The Lyran people and its leader vote against the Rasalhague Dominion’s inclusion.†Peter said sitting down.
“Thank you.†Jeremy said moving around the table. New leader Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao of the St Ives Compact and Chancellor Naomi Centrella of the Capellan Confederation voted against the inclusion of the Rasalhague Dominion.
Next came Star League Protectorate leader Governor of Terra Gavin Dow “Governor how would Terra and the Star League Protectorate vote on this matter knowing that their inclusion could bring further war?†Jeremy Brett asked looking at the former ComStar Prmus and Precentor Tharkad.
“We would vote for the Rasalhague Dominion’s inclusion into this Council. Although First Prince Davion has had much experience with the Clans he knows as well as the rest of us that the joint invasion of all the Clans is something of the past each Clan is here now in the Inner Sphere, and the Periphery, for their own purposes. This Council represents a chance for us to reconcile our differences with the Clans bring them to the table, this table, and sort out our differences. Perhaps together we can bring a second Golden Age to all humanity.†He said sitting down. Immediately following Gavin Dow Captain-Generals Corrine Marik and Kiric Cameron-Jones both voted for the Rasalhague Dominion’s inclusion. Jeremy Brett could not agree with his two fellow Free Worlds League leaders and voted against the inclusion of the Rasalhague Dominion, he did not wish a renewed Clan Invasion of the Inner Sphere and that was a very real possibility if the Ghost Bears reached Terra. This left only youthful Protector Erik Martens-Calderon of the Taurian Concordat to vote.
“Protector Calderon, the vote is four votes against, three for and one abstains. With the Draconis Combine not here to vote I will vote for them as a second abstain. If you vote for this motion Commanding-General Christifori will have the deciding vote as head of the Star League Defence Force. May I ask you for your choice?†The young leader of the periphery realm rose to his feet.
“I like Prince Davion have fought the Clans†he said looking for support from the Federated Suns leader and barely getting a notice “in the Periphery against the Nova Cats. And what I saw terrified me, I believe the Clans are a threat to our very way of life. I vote against this motion and propose a new joint operation between the Inner Sphere and Star League Defence Forces not only to stop further incursions into the Inner Sphere but also to rid the Nova Cats from their base the pirate hole of Tortuga.â€
“Protector, one issue at a time please.†Jeremy warned beating Victor Davion to his feet, would Victor defend the Clan at his back or join his ancient enemy in supporting an attack. “Let the record show with the Taurian vote the Rasalhague Dominion’s interest in joining this council has been denied.†Jeremy said seeing the Taurian Protector still standing. “Protector, this Clan has not attacked the Inner Sphere and has sought to trade with the Inner Sphere why would we have an issue with them.â€
“They are Clan.†The inexperience young man said, he may have the experience of fighting them on the battle field however he did not have the experience in this arena.
“The Star League has grown beyond its founding Protector; we are no longer a purely anti-clan formation. Request denied.†Jeremy said he had no interest in a renewed Star League operation, affairs at home were bad enough. “If there is nothing else?†He asked looking around the room “this council meeting is abjured.†He said folding his meeting book in front of him and leaving the room, Protector Erik Martens-Calderon stormed out shortly afterwards.
Taurian Delegation Quarters, Protector’s Suite
Whitting Conference Centre, Unity City
Terra, Star League Protectorate
16th November 3082
“They turned down my suggestion without a single thought!†Erik spat in anger Baron Cham Kithrong and Comptroller Alexis Standoff stood in the room with him. “They think our inclusion in this Star League is a joke, I could see it on Brett’s face before he even asked me to vote!â€
“Because the vote was over, Erik unless you voted for the Bear inclusion they were defeated, I have heard that Commanding-General Christifori is against the idea as well, the Bears had no chance unless there was overwhelming support.â€
“Victor Davion knows, he’s fought the Clans, he knows what they are like and he didn’t say a word!†Erik continued on his rant barely noticing what Cham had said.
“We know the Davions have made deals with the Nova Cats not to attack the Federated Suns. Victor Davion has almost nothing to fear from them even though they are heavily involved in the Fronc Reaches and Filtvelt Coalition.â€
“How can they not fear them?†Erik asked he thought it was ludicrous for anyone not to fear or hate the Clans. “they are Clan. I still have the scars in my shoulder where one of their Elemental‘s tore my armour to pieces and took a piece of me with him.†He stated as if that was enough to cause fear for all around him, although his armour was not impaired by the injury the scars were obvious to anyone who had seen him both physically and mentally. Behind them the door creaked open Erik spun and saw a young secretary standing at the door “I said no interruptions!†He said turning his anger now on her.
“My apologies Protector however you have a visitor†the Star League administration staff said stepping to one side as Chancellor Naomi Centrella stepped into the room. Dressed head to tow in a long ruffled black dress that tightened around her waist the Capellan leader looked stunning her hair rolled high in traditional Capellan style only added to her height and prowess.
“Magestix, welcome to the Taurian Quarter.†Erik said using her Canopian title stepping ahead of the other two men “it is a pleasure to see you. How may I be of assistance?†He said heading towards his visitor.
“I would like to speak with you about your proposal at the Council Meeting.†She said Erik momentarily did not know what she referred so Naomi prodded further “concerning the Nova Cats.â€
“Of course, you are most welcome please come in.†He said guiding her into the room it was not at all Taurian style instead the neutral beige and whites of the Star League.
“Perhaps we could speak alone? One leader to another.â€
“Cham Kithrong is my greatest advisor…†Erik began “however I am sure whatever we decide he can learn from me. Cham is you will please see that our other interests are being catered for.â€
“Of course Protector†he said saluting his leader “Chancellor†he said bowing respectfully to the Capellan leader Comptroller Alexis Standoff quickly followed suit closing the door behind them as they left.
“And now we are alone.†Erik said seating himself on a sofa directly opposite the Capellan leader.
“Yes we are†Naomi said picking at the fingers of her black gloves pulling them off to reveal her violet nail polish. “But there is still so much distance between us.†She said raising moving past the small coffee table to join Erik on his sofa. “Much better†she said quietly Erik did not know where to look Naomi Centrella was a beautiful woman although she was nearly sixteen years senior to Erik’s twenty-seven years he couldn’t help but be attracted to her.
“You wanted to discuss the Clans.â€
“Yes, Jeremy Brett was wrong when he said no Nova Cats had harmed any Inner Sphere world. They interrupted the first St Ives Conflict between that state and they threatened Sian with one of their WarShips.†Naomi explained quietly
“But why did you not speak up at the Council, our voices could have turned the tide!â€
“No young one, we could not Victor Davion would have fashioned support for his beloved pets and we would have been defeated. I have no proof of the Nova Cat involvement in the war quite simply it could have been anyone, ComStar, the Word of Blake even a Free Worlds Faction all had Aegis-class vessels at their disposal.â€
“So they can get away with whatever they want and we can do nothing. This Council and its defence force are spineless! I’m almost tempted to withdraw my nation.â€
“Better be with them than against them.†Naomi cautioned “instead I can think of another solution.â€
“Which is?â€
“Your nation has been directly aggrieved by the Nova Cats while mine as a more distant trouble with them. I suggest you take the fight to the Nova Cats cause problems for them and the Capellans will provide you with the weapons you need to carry this fight. In exchange you will provide us with sampling of all the technology and defences the Nova Cats have that will further Capellan development and in the long run support your Concordat.â€
“A revitalization of the Trinity Alliance? My people remember how we were treated in a previous alliance with your people.â€
“That was Sun-Tzu Liao, he was the traitor to your people and mine, all he wanted from us was sponge units that would allow him to build up the CCAF while we lost good people in the bargain.†She said quietly her voice full of venom but a tear running down her cheek. Erik moved closer placing his arm around her “when I discovered his true intentions I used him like he’d used us. He died because of how he treated us, I did what I did for your nation and mine.†She said sobbing slightly “now there is only me, and my children.â€
“I have no family.†Erik said quietly both his mother and father were gone perhaps Cham Kithrong was the closest thing he had.
“Sometimes that is better†Naomi said
“I’ll do it, I’ll give the Nova Cats a black eye if you provide us with arms. We will make them sorry they decided to make their home so close to ours.†He said still holding Naomi
“You will†she said looking up, she looked surprised, tears still on her cheek.
“Yes dear lady anything to make you happy.â€
“I am so glad.†She said stroking the side of his face “such a handsome young man.†She whispered leaning in kissing Erik, although he wanted to stop himself Erik found himself returning her kiss Naomi was after all a beautiful woman. The kiss was passionate Erik was sure he could taste strawberry perhaps it was her lipstick Naomi was the one to break it off “I am afraid there is a requisite of any Canopian deal†she said reaching to the front of her dress she opened the first clip then moved to the second Erik’s hand moved to hers to stop her.
“Not on my account dear lady, this is one clause I will not force you to go through.†He said reassuring her, he’d show her that a Taurian man did not take advantage of any woman under any circumstance. Naomi’s face blossomed as she smiled.
“Dear handsome Erik†she said seriously opening the second clasp “ for once this is one duty I feel obliged to for fill tonight†she said as she moved to kiss him again the pair fell backwards onto the sofa locked in an embrace that would last the rest of the night. Naomi may have been the older of the two but Erik showed her what a Taurian man was made of, the Capellan Chancellor left the Taurian suite early the next morning more than satisfied, both physically and mentally, her deal was made.
Ninth Whitting Conference
Main Hall, Whtting Conference Centre
Unity City, Terra, Star League Protectorate
17th November 3082
The next day the Star League Conference met again for the last of their meetings and the all important vote for who would be the First Lord for the next three years. “My fellow Lords I would like to begin the proceedings by voting for Victor Steiner-Davion.†Jeremy Brett said moments after he had stepped down “of all the lords here he is the one who has shown he puts his nation and the state of this Star League ahead of his personal feelings.â€
“It is highly irregular for an outgoing First Lord to nominate his successor however if First Prince Davion will not stand in the way of this nomination neither will the chair.†Archer Christifori said, he was the only neutral voice in the room as standing Commanding-General.
“I will accept Commanding-General.†Victor said.
“Are there any other nominations?†Archer asked looking at the assembled Lords Erik Martins-Calderon raised to his feel smiling he seemed very pleased with himself today.
“I would like to nominate…†he said looking at Naomi Centrella who gave a scuttle shake of her head.
“Yes, Protector you would like to nominate? Anyone except Jeremy Brett as he has just held the position.†Archer coaxed an answer from the stumbling Periphery leader.
“I would like to nominate Captain-General Corrine Marik of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. As a former Succession State leader she has brought together elements of the shattered Free Worlds League and created stability between the war-torn states.†He said continuing on.
“Corrine Marik, do you accept this nomination?â€
“I do accept this surprising nomination.†She said standing nodding in Erik’s position, the young Taurian leader going slightly red from his embarrassment.
“With two nominations we can continue if there are no further nominations?†Archer said continuing there were no more nominations. “Corrine Marik and Victor Steiner-Davion are nominated to the position of First Lord there will be a short recess before the voting.â€
After fifteen minutes the council reconvened again Archer Christifori was the one to speak first “with the leaders of the Federated Suns and Marik-Stewart Commonwealth nominated I assume those nominations stand as votes?†He asked looking at Jeremy Brett and Erik Martins-Calderon both nodded their agreement “as it stands both have one vote.†Archer continued then looked at Governor Gavin Dow.
“The Star League Protectorate will support Victor Steiner-Davion for the position of First Lord.†he said the former ComStar man unwilling to support a Free Worlds League faction to the position.
“Thank you†Archer said skipping over the vacant Draconis Combine table he moved to Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao “the St Ives vote?â€
“For the Federated Suns.†Melissa said quietly her voice shaky belaying her nervousness.
“Let the record show the vote stands at three votes to Victor Steiner-Davion and one to Corrine Marik.†Archer said looking to Chancellor Naomi Centrella “the Capellan vote?â€
“We will abstain from voting at this time.†She said formally she fancied neither to be in the position if she was honest.
“Thank you†Archer said turning to the Regulan Fiefs leader Duke Kiric Cameron-Jones. “your vote.â€
“I will also abstain from voting.†Kiric said bluntly.
“Thank you†Archer said with the votes three to Victor, one to Corrine and two abstains there was no chance of Corrine’s victory but he continued onto Archon Peter Steiner-Davion “the Lyran Commonwealth’s vote.â€
“I will support Victor Steiner-Davion to the position.†Peter said not even looking at his brother the two had obviously had a falling out but still he’d support the Federated Suns leaver over that of anyone from the Free Worlds League.
“Thank you with four votes to one with two abstains and one non voter Victor Steiner-Davion is elected to the position of the Ninth First Lord of the Star League. Unless there is further discussion? This conference is at an end.†No-one said anything “then I wish you all a safe journey home. Please remember no targeting scanners will be permitted within the Sol system or before your vessels leave our space. Archer said standing down from the podium quickly the other Lords retreated to their own areas of the complex before leaving Terra for their own realms.
National
All Districts
Draconis Combine
10th December 3082
Continuing the purges ordered by Minoru Kurita further arrests are made across Luthien, New Samarkand and Benjamin now by the Order of the Five Pillars, Internal Security Force and by the Sons of the Dragon led by Akira Tormark. There is nowhere for the Black Dragons or those that oppose the ruling line to hide. These actions cripple military movements across the nation and decapitate several regiments as senior officers are arrested and executed. Across the nation the arrival of the Sons of the Dragon is met with fear and anger, the biggest out lash of this is on Luthien where a protest riot against the Sons actions are met with lethal force from ISF units, before the riots are quelled over two thousand civilians are dead in Black Luthien City.
AFFS March
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th December 3082
In stark contrast to the actions in the Draconis Combine on Christmas Day there is a parade through Avalon City as the Four Battle Armour Regiments of the Royal Battle Armour Brigade of the First Davion Guards Regimental Combat Team, leads the unit through the capital as a show of the Federated Suns current prosperity.
End of 3082 Hope you enjoyed
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3083
Zenith Recharge Station, Control Room
Brockway, Ridgebrook Combat Region
Capellan March, Federated Suns
4th January 3083
The Brockway system was a tactically important world along the Federated Suns/Taurian Concordat border however for the most part the crew of its Nadir Recharge Station had little to worry about the Taurians hadn’t attacked the system in several years and pirate raids were few and far between. As a result the station’s procedures were not as strict as on other stations with only three people in the Control Room that could be manned by more than twelve. “Another quiet nightshift†Leftenant Alex Osagie said quietly sitting on the commander’s chair in the middle of the spherical room. Around him facing the walls were the other stations. On his left hand side sitting at the tactical and sensors station was Senior Technician Derek Smith while to his right at the main engineering console was Chief Matthew Lovie.
“Well I plan on spending it productively†Matt said quietly from the Engineering section.
“What was that Chief?†Alex asked off handily opening a text document on his main screen, it was a novel he’d been working on for the last ten years, endless revisions and corrections had stopped him ever trying to publish it but he still held the faint hope.
“Well LT, I plan on trying to get the main sensor resolution up to 90%†The Chief stated intently which followed was a near instant roar of laughter from both his colleagues.
“Chief, I have been assigned to this station for six years, I’ve never seen it over eighty-four percent.†Alex said getting over his initial laughter.
“I’ve got a bet with the “old man†he thinks it’s impossible as well.†the Chief said looking up from his screen the Chief was in his late forties and had been a spacer almost all his life born in space, grown up in space and worked there. He’d been planet side, or dirt-side as he called it, a few times through his life but he couldn’t get used to things not moving. Because of his time in space the Chief was thin lacking in regular gravity his bones were frailer than most but his mind was one of the sharpest on the entire station. Alex turned away from his document.
“Chief, no offence but I’ve heard you say that before. What makes you think you’ve got it this time?â€
“Leftenant, Union Square control reports all shops and businesses have closed they are powering down for the night.†Derek reported from tactical during the night all the posts covered more of the station’s controls than normal. One of these was to monitor the various sections of the station as it closed down for the nightshift. Union Square was the local name for the shopping mall within the recharge station, roughly one hundred small businesses on the station’s main gravity deck. Because of the number of businesses in one space local control over their power allotments were controlled from a subsidiary control room. The Station only logged when they signed out at night leaving the rest to local controls, there would still be people in those sections but only cleaners and essential security and maintenance workers.
“Understood log it for the record 23:38 Brockway time, cross it with Ridgebrook time and send the report to the Duchess†the Leftenant said looking over at Derek who nodded and began, at the end of each night the station had to send Duchess Persephone Norinn’s office, on Brockway, a report of the business times which they did something interesting with which was beyond Alex’s pay grade.
“Yes sir†Derek replied quietly
“So Chief you’ve got my attention what have you done to make the sensors work so well?â€
“Now that would be telling Leftenant, you wouldn’t want me to tell you everything.†Matt said concentrating on his screens.
“What do you expect to see out there with 90% sensors that we can’t see with 84%?†Alex said looking at the current sensor efficiency before switching back to his novel, the Chief was fantasizing if he thought they’d see anything interesting in this backwater system.
“You never know what’s out there that we can’t see.†Matt replied cryptically, Alex turned back to look at the man for a moments seeing Matt’s small smile.
“You think you’ll find The Legend.†Alex stated, The Legend was a myth of the Brockway system that descended from the original Taurian inhabitants. Legend was that during the Star League Defence Force’s Reunification War a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, one of the huge Star League WarShips of old, had been travelling through the system and suffered some sort of malfunction disappearing completely from the system. Some theorized that it’s engines had locked on acceleration and sent the ship into deep space beyond the Brookway system. According to the legend the crew had stayed aboard to try and fix the problem and neither them or their passengers had ever been heard of again.
Alex had been told the story when he’d first been assigned to the system and laughed it off as another backwater Legend. On one of his nightshifts he’d done some research into the Legend if the ship had continued to accelerate it would be light years from the system by now, the crew long dead killed by either exposure to a long duration in deep space or the stress of continuous acceleration. There was one train of thought that the ship had been snagged by the biggest gas giant however hundreds of expeditions had never found anything the Legend was exactly that, for all anyone knew the ship could have just jumped away and not been logged correctly, or the Star League had intentionally faked the accident to hide the ship and unit from enemy intelligence. Like all legends there were a hundred different possible explanations.
“Leftenant, I don’t know what I’ll find. That’s what is so much fun.†Matt replied still with a small smile on his face.
“Blake’s Blood!†Derek exclaimed from his tactical station “radiation surge, we have incoming traffic†he said looking up at Alex. Alex looked directly at the main wall mounted view screen which was linked to cameras and sensors across the station, of course there was nothing there, they wouldn’t see anything until the JumpShip completed its jump.
“What have we got?†Alex said checking the schedule there was nothing planned for the next two days, a Starlord-class merchant from the St Ives Compact.
“That’s impossible†Derek said staring at his sensors with disbelief.
“Tech!†Alex shouted trying to break him out of it.
“S-Sir†Derek stuttered looking at Alex then looked back at his sensor images “the computer reads it as a fully loaded Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser….â€
“Blake’s Blood†Alex said looking back at his sensors as suddenly with a blinding flash of light the huge 1.5million tonne Troop Cruiser flashed into existence, with a full complement of DropShips attached to its hull it really did look like a flying corn-cob just like the records said. It’s deep green hull clearly showing a Cameron Star, the insignia of the Star League Defence force. Alex looked at Matt who similarly was looking at the screen. “Legends†he whispered still stunned by the sight.
Nadir Recharge Station, Control Room
Brockway, Ridgebrook Combat Region
Capellan March, Federated Suns
4th January 3083
Suddenly the station's control room was a hive of activity "Control to Commander Hayes, we need you up here ASAP, Code Red!" Alex said rapidly into the communications system "Derek, set Code Red throughout the station all crew to duty stations, civilians to the shelters." He ordered the young tactical tech who nodded and got to work, mobilizing the entire station at this late an hour could take a while but there was little else for it they needed everyone at their posts and the civilian personnel visiting and living on the station to be safe.
"Matt, power defence weapons just in case I don't want to be caught with our pants down."
"If that thing is active we're dead our guns can't stop them and our armour is nowhere strong enough." The engineer protested, it was a futile gesture.
"I know but I want the records to show we at least tried something." He turned to Derek "launch the distress buoy set it on a course for the planet." At least someone would know what happened here.
"Aye, sir" moments later "Communications from the Potemkin."
"Movement from the Potemkin" Matt said "two DropShips detaching" he said looking at his screen "I don't know that class." The engineer said, identifying DropShips was a little out of the engineer's job description.
"Derek, what does the Warbook say?"
"Titan-class Carriers" Derek replied as the warbook identified the craft. "Only one that uses them now is the Clans" he warned "Potemkin still holding on channel one."
"Alright put them through, hold our fighters in the tubes unless those DropShips close on us." Alex said he heard doors open behind him as some of the dayshift arrived however Alex's attention was focused squarely on the main screen. On the screen appeared a man in his late forties with a well trimmed goatee wearing the original Star League's uniform "Legends." Alex whispered under his breath.
"I repeat this is Major-General Bannister Cameron to unidentified Recharge Station, please identify, we have encountered a failure in our main KF Drive." The man said peering into the camera Alex was gob smacked he didn't know what to say, it was like looking into the past. Behind the man there were other crewmen moving around all wearing SLDF uniform.
"This is Leftenant Alex Osagie of the Federated Suns Armed Forces, welcome to the Brockway star system."
"Brockway?" The man said surprised, almost as if he hadn't expected to be in this system.
"Listen son, I don't know what kind of game you are playing. Brockway light years from here, this should be the Kathil system. Now do some explaining or be considered hostile."
"I'm sorry, sir, but this is the Brockway System has been since it was taken from the Taurian Concordat by the Federated Suns at the end of the Reunification War." Alex explained in the barest of terms, there was so much more history to it than that but it was close enough.
"Listen to me son I was there when this world fell don't give me history lessons its hasn't been that many years, since when did the Federated Suns have time to build a station here?" the man asked surprised to find anything here and still suspicious of Alex's words.
Another deep voice broke in from behind Alex who turned to see his commander, Station Commander Bill Hayes "General, can I ask you the date please?" He said immediately getting on top of the situation before something else happened.
"The date?" Bannister asked surprised "12th August 2784." Bannister answered moments later.
"General, I regret to inform you the year is in fact 3083." Bill said stepping down to join Alex.
"We will contact you further when it is required." The Star League vessel's commander said logging off his image was replaced with an external camera view of the Potemkin with two smaller craft hovering just below it like fish feeding off a whale's back.
"They've launched a CAP, six small craft unable to determine type. They do not appear to be on attack vectors." Derek said moments later as more contacts appeared launched from one of the DropShips.
"Keep an eye on them" Hayes ordered turning to Alex "so Leftenant, the short version please." Alex explained everything that had happened during the night and what actions he and his colleagues had taken as events unfolded. Hayes nodded "a bang up job Leftenant" he said Alex remained silent "if he calls back keep him talking, I'm going to speak with the Duchess." He said turning heading back up the steps towards his office, Alex looked down at the consoles and smiled in pride in how he'd preformed "so much for your novel tonight" the commander said walking up the steps Alex felt his cheeks boil he thought he'd been so careful and his CO had known the entire time.
Hours passed before the Potemkin communicated again with the station this time the station was a full readiness and the Control Room was fully manned. Alex Osagie, Matt Lovie and Derek Smith had been allowed to remain on duty but little else had happened. When the Potemkin communicated again the General asked to speak directly one on one with Commander Hayes "Understand Commander we are having a hard time across here understanding exactly what has transpired. What if what you say is correct we have been missing for almost three hundred years, to us it was a blink of the eye one single jump."
"I understand General but what I say is completely true, I can send you records of what has happened since then, I'm afraid it isn't all pretty reading."
"I'd prefer if you didn't, not yet anyway, my people need time to adjust. I would ask does the Star League still stand? I know Amaris destroyed my family but what of our Legacy?" He asked as a member of the Cameron dynasty he no doubt hoped the League was still strong and he could have a place in it.
"The Star League you know has fallen" Hayes said "and risen anew from the ashes, reformed its blade to fight again."
"My god, in a blink of an eye." he repeated Hayes guessed he was in shock.
"Sir, may I suggest you come over to the station, we can discuss this further in person and I can show you the history you have missed. Perhaps clean up some of the mysteries."
"I've heard worse ideas in the last twelve hours, Commander; I would be delighted to come over there. Also a request if I may?" the General said "that Leftenant who I spoke with at the start I'd like to meet him an impressive young man."
"Of course" Hayes said severing the link, raising he headed out of his officer back into the Control Room "Leftenant Osagie, best dress uniform for you."
"Sir?" the tired young officer asked his face a picture of horror and surprise.
"You've outdone yourself Leftenant, The General wants to meet with you." Hayes said Alex's horror melted away into a smile of joy as he realized what his commander was saying.
"Yes, sir" he said saluting with pride before leaving the control room.
Nadir Recharge Station
Brockway, Ridgebrook Combat Region
Capellan March, Federated Suns
5th January 3083
At a little after 02:00 hours local time the shuttle from the Potemkin docked with the recharge station at docking bay Alpha Three the best looking of the station's guest berths. After both ships matched their pressure the doors opened, from the Station Commander Bill Hayes, Leftenant Alex Osagie, Leftenant Michael Stewart and two armed marines stood at attention as a welcoming committee. Surprising them all the first two people to leave the shuttle were fully dressed in Nighthawk XIX Power Armour suits and carrying compact laser pulse rifles the suits were genesis behind the Battle Armour developed by the Clans and although not up to matching full Battle Armour in combat they were easily capable of taking on twice their number of regular marines.
Moments later Major-General Bannister Cameron followed. He was quite a tall man lean built and appeared to be quite athletic even using magnetic boots in the micro gravity of the docking bay. Behind the General came two aides one a young female with dark hair and another an older man in a non-commissioned officer uniform. "Party from the SLS Wasp, requesting permission to come aboard." He called as he crossed to threshold from shuttle to station.
"Crew of Recharge station granting permission to board. Wary travelers you will find rest here." Bill Hayes replied completing the traditional welcome to a far traveled vessel's crew. Bill hadn't used it in over twenty years and only knew the words because his father had done the same job during Bill's childhood. The three Star League officers snapped to perfect Star League fashioned salutes which the three AFFS crewmen replied with their own salutes.
"Commander, I thank you for your welcome, you honour us. I think we have much to discuss." Bannister Cameron said extending his hand which Bill Hayes shook.
"Of course allow me to introduce two of my officers, Leftenant Michael Stewart is my head of Security" Bannister shook the man's hand firmly "and Leftenant Alex Osagie, our nightshift duty officer from last night."
"Leftenant a pleasure to meet you in person." He said shaking the young Leftenant's hand Alex smiled back.
"Normally my shifts are so quiet." Alex said quietly.
"Commander allow me to introduce my own party, my personal aide, Lieutenant Sally Roberts" the young officer nodded to the station personnel. "And Senior Sergeant-Major Able Parker, my own chief of security."
"Welcome both to our station, if you will please follow me we'll head up to the conference room." Hayes said leading the way out followed by Alex then the three SLDF officers and finally Lt Stewart the two Nighthawk suits remaining at the dock. It was not the easiest thing to traverse the micro gravity of a Space Station and have a conversation at the same time so they remained silent instead concentrating on making the trip quickly.
Almost twenty minutes later and several decks above they were onboard one of the station's gravity deck within one of the biggest conference rooms. "General I am sorry our facilities are not better." Hayes said pouring several glasses of water one for each of them.
"Quite alright Commander, I would have expected things to be better even here on the rim after so many years."
"The fall of the Star League and the Succession Wars saw to it that things would be no better, Continuous raids by the Taurian Concordat and border wars with the Capellan Confederation have kept resources geared towards military assets instead of luxuries.
"The fate of the League, I knew of Kerensky's Exodus, we were on our way out of the Inner Sphere. But there was still so many Star League units remaining within the Inner Sphere and Terra still held strong." Bannister said informing them of what he'd known of.
"With your permission sir?" Alex said quietly Hayes nodded "following the departure of Kerensky's armed forces the remains of the Terran Hegemony had little chance the First Succession War began and so many worlds were destroyed, billions were destroyed."
"My god, Terra?" Sally Roberts asked in almost a whisper.
"Terra was protected by ComStar" Alex explained "the Department of Communications. They bargained for Terra's neutrality in exchange they maintained the communication grids."
"While the rest of humanity blasted itself to kingdom come." Able Parker muttered in a disgusted tone.
"And what of Kerensky's army?" Bannister Cameron asked obviously interested in his comrades in arms "were they ever heard from again?"
"They have returned..." Alex began before Bannister's personal communicator beeped surprising all the AFFS personnel; none had seen a personal communicator with that kind of range.
"Excuse me" Bannister said activating his comm. "Wasp to Cameron, respond."
"Go ahead Commodore."
"Sir, a new ship just jumped in definitely a WarShip but nothing like we've ever seen. I would suggest you return to the Wasp immediately."
"Stand-by" Cameron said glaring at Hayes "what is this?" instead of answering straight away Hayes activated a control on the desk a wall mounted screen activated and showed an external camera image showing a red painted vessel.
"That is the FSS Melissa Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser." Hayes said in admiration "planet side commanders called on their back up following your arrival."
"I think we should perhaps cut this meeting short we will return to our vessel and communicate with you further soon." Cameron said raising from his chair, knowing there was little chance of going back Hayes and the others rose as well ready to lead them back through the station.
Back at the dock Bannister Cameron turned around and saluted he noticed the disappointment on their faces "Commander I would ask that perhaps you could forward those reports you offered previously?" he asked "perhaps it would help us understand exactly what has happened to the Inner Sphere." He turned to Leftenant Osagie "Leftenant, perhaps you would like to see your "Legends" up close? With the commander's permission" Alex was embarrassed that the General had heard his "Legends" quote but Hayes looked at the young man with both admiration and envy and nodded "how about it Leftenant?"
"Yes, sir most interested." He said following the Star League troopers aboard the shuttle soon the craft was heading back to the SLS Wasp across the space between the Wasp and the FSS Melissa Davion.
Onboard SLS Wasp (Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser)
Brockway, Ridgebrook Combat Region
Capellan March, Federated Suns
5th January 3083
By the time the shuttle had crossed the void between the Recharge Station and the SLS Wasp it was 04:00 hours Alex was approaching a full eighteen hours awake and although he hadn't said a word Bannister Cameron had noticed. Instead of giving Alex a grand tour of the massive Potemkin-class vessel he had insisted Alex rest and ordered Lt. Sally Roberts to take Alex to guest quarters with a promise that after some rest he would see more of the Troop Cruiser.
He did not know how long he'd slept or exactly where on the star ship he was but Alex was awakened a few hours later by Sally Roberts. She informed him that the Major-General was busy in meetings and planning sessions with the Calvary's commanders and Alex would be seen shortly. Instead of business she'd taken him on a tour of the massive 1.5 million ton vessel, although judging from his initial look of the vessel it was no passenger ship. Corridor after corridor room after room each packed with equipment Sally explained that some sections of the Wasp were still battle damaged, from an unarmed battle, and inaccessible making moving around more difficult and the ships commander had ordered that only senior officers from its attending DropShips were allowed on board the WarShip giving for slightly risen temperatures between the ground forces and the WarShip crew.
Eventually they made their way onto the ship's single 95metre gravity deck in one of the mess halls they got some standard SLDF MRE (Meals Ready to Eat or Meals Rejected by Everyone) and sat at one of the tables, the room was mostly empty but Alex's AFFS uniform gained plenty of looks. "So, Combat Rations?" Alex said looking at his meal, they were not his favourite meal ever a year ago the Recharge Station had failed a total power failure causing all the food to go off for six days all they ate were combat rations until re-supply arrived.
"We couldn't trust local Taurian suppliers to supply us with sufficient supplies that wouldn't be contaminated. The Exodus had been called but the McKenna Shipyards in orbit of Kathil had agreed to provide us with supplies before turning fully over to the Federated Suns, the General said he was ordered a favour or two."
"I don't understand Major-General Cameron" Alex said looking overhead at the lights then back to Sally's petite face "he's a Cameron! Why wasn't he First Lord after the Usurper was gone? Why out here, the back-end of nowhere, how did you guys miss the Liberation?" He said asking rapid fire questions, he could see Sally thinking about her response.
"In regards to General Cameron all I know is the job we were given was only being entrusted to him he had some major backing, it was his project. As to why he wasn't recalled to be First Lord, I honestly don't know, something to do with a family disagreement, this project was suited to him, but it also got him out of the way a sort of Exile. When the Exodus was called he was more than ready to follow Kerensky but we never made it that far." She said quietly looking at the table toying with her ration "what did they say about us? We just disappeared..."
"I haven't read the history on the Wasp specifically; the only name we knew you by was The Legends."
"The Legends, how romantic" Sally said pulling her legs up onto her chair under her "tell me the story"
"Well I know now some of our details are off" Alex said quietly but Sally remained silent still looking at him waiting for the story "from our perspective it was still the Reunification War, a big Star League ship had been at the Nadir point recharging its drives when something happened, its engines locked on accelerate. The crew stayed aboard trying to repair the damage and turn around the ship, it simply disappeared never heard of again, some said the Legends of old were safeguarding the ship in deep space until they were needed again. Others said it had been swallowed by the Gas Giant."
"Didn't anyone ever look for us?"
"Plenty of times there were even a couple of ships a few years that jumped into deep space between the systems deploying sensor drones searching for a sign. But now I know there was no chance of finding you."
"No chance at all." Sally said quietly "we were just gone stuck in limbo, for us one hour was missed for you and the rest of humanity almost three hundred years." She said shivering; Alex reached over the table putting his hand on hers reassuringly.
"I bet the Inner Sphere is completely different now." she whispered quietly turning her hand linking it with his.
"In places, I wonder if Brockway will ever change."
"From what I've seen the people are friendlier now." She said with a smile.
"Bridge to Roberts, get our guest up here on the double, something's happened." Both immediately got up and headed off the deck as quickly as possible. The Wasp was a huge vessel just over fifteen hundred metres long with multiple decks each with near identical layouts of long corridors connecting port to starboard and ventral to dorsal hulls. Huge pressure doors which could close were positioned ever ten metres or so to contain any potential hull breaches. In the zero-gravity it took nearly forever to travel deck to deck, most were not connected directly to each other meaning you had to go up and across a deck instead of straight along.
After nearly twenty minutes they arrived on the main command deck. Built similarly to the Recharge Station's Control Room the main room was an edged oval shape with the command deck at the lowest beside a huge table. As Alex entered the room he could see the table was in fact a huge Holo-tank displaying the Wasp in the centre, the recharge station off to one side, the FSS Melissa Davion nearby and now several more contacts. Beside the tank stood Bannister Cameron and another man dressed in white wearing Commodore insignia.
"Taurians" Bannister spat seeing Alex enter, "welcome aboard Leftenant."
"Thank you sir, problem?" He enquired looking at the holotank and the Commodore.
"Taurian Concordat forces just jumped in demanding the Wasp's immediate and unconditional surrender." The Commodore said.
"Why?" Alex asked not understanding, the Wasp and her crew had only just gotten here.
"We don't know but they want the Wasp and her crew, identified us by name. Seems good news passes quick."
"Appears they follow their history as well." Bannister said quietly
"Sir?" Alex asked hearing the General.
"Nothing Leftenant, do you know do the Taurians have any authority here at all."
"Not with the Melissa Davion here, the Taurians have nothing that can manage her firepower, this is a Federated Suns system. But the Taurians are part of the reborn Star League, so I don't know if they can pull political pressure on Prince Steiner-Davion."
"Steiner-Davion?" Bannister asked the Steiner realm was the Lyran Commonwealth half a sphere away.
"Long story, bad experiment, paid our price for it now on our own again. Mostly." Alex added looking at the Holo-tank, the Melissa Davion was moving towards the Taurians although it hadn't gone weapons hot the Avalon-class Cruiser was trying to bully the five Taurian DropShips into leaving. "She's the Federated Suns Flagship her crew know what they are doing, haven't seen one this close though." He said with interest.
"Radiological alarm, one of those Taurians has nukes!"
"Sir, there are four hundred Federated Suns sailors aboard that Cruiser, you have to make sure they know about the Taurians." Alex pleaded watching as the Avalon accelerated towards the DropShips.
"They know." The Commodore promised recognizing the Avalon's movement profile, the vessel wasn't just warning them off. Suddenly all six of the Cruiser's forward facing AR-10 Multi-Purpose Capital Missile Launchers fired as one engaging each of the DropShips all at once. Two of the Taurian DropShips exploded into pieces a third, what appeared to be a Buccaneer Civilian cargo carrier lost its entire wing section spinning out of control before exploding, while the remaining two craft received heavy damage. "Wasp Actual, Hornet deploy fighters attack Taurian DropShips." From behind and below the Wasp one of the Titan-class DropShip had been moving forward steadily during this unnoticed by Alex.
"Sir, with respect they will never have time to intercept those DropShips before they are in range of the Melissa Davion, the human body can't take that kind of acceleration."
"No it can't" he said knowingly. The Titan-class Carrier was joined by six fighters then a second six and finally a third six an entire aero wing. the fighters were all identical Alex didn't recognize the design but all shot forward at almost four G acceleration straight away and continued to accelerate as they closed on the battle site. "Wasp Actual, Hornet, extreme prejudice." The Commodore said into the communication system, there was no return from the Titan however the fighters continued to accelerate.
"They are going to rip themselves apart." Alex remarked focusing on the fast moving fighters "those pilots are insane." He remarked suddenly the first flight of fighters broke into three pairs of two. The first two sets of fighters headed straight for the remaining two Taurian craft. "A flying pass at that speed isn't going to do much damage, fighters travelling at those speeds can't carry that much firepower?" He asked looking at the Commodore, the Star League fighters approach was brute force no tactics at all.
"No, but then the fighter can act as a weapon." The Commodore stated plainly as the first fighter followed closely by the second slammed into the Taurian Overlord-class DropShip. Alex involuntarily stepped back from the holo-tank as it showed the DropShip spin out of control. "Damage assessment" the Commodore calmly said.
"100/100, target completely destroyed Black One and Two lost, no recognizable wreckage remains." One of the bridge crew said.
"As expected, we'll have to build more." The Commodore said turning back to the screen Alex was almost blind with rage how could he be so callous with his people's lives. "There go the second two" the Commodore remarked almost off hand as the second pair of fighters struck an Excalibur-class DropShip the first catching the DropShip head on the second slamming into the hull about half the way down. "Damage assessment"
"Vessel appears to still have power, no movement, radiation readings still lingering."
"Commit final pair first squadron, commit second squadron for Battlefield assessment." The Commodore ordered the crew moving about their duties. Moments later two more fighters intentionally plouged themselves into the remaining crippled DropShip tearing the remains of the vessel to pieces. "Damage assessment" the Commodore ordered for a final time, this time the sophisticated holo-tank detected three "Excaliburs" then turned into a debris field.
"100/100, sir mission completed."
"Good job people, Hornet, second squadron Battlefield assessment, third to CAP relief. Don't worry we'll replace those losses." The Commodore said smiling turning to Bannister.
"Well done Commodore, a good mission..." the Major-General started before Alex screamed in anger and disbelief.
"What the hell does that mean? Good mission? You lost six pilots, six fighters completely destroyed for two DropShips! The last two sacrificed against a target that was no threat!" he shouted "what's worse you" he said pointing at the Commodore "you, ordered them to do that without a single shot fired! No tactics just brute force smash them. You callous bastard how could you ever raise in the ranks, you should have stayed in your damned time warp, we don't need your kind in this universe!" He shouted running out of breath.
"Leftenant, please some respect." Bannister said quietly
"No General, I can understand combat losses, I've seen combat losses friends killed fighting the Taurians, the Capellans. Hell I've even heard of entire wings killed in major engagements but what you just did..." he said "you never even gave them a fighting chance." He was speechless, he just looked at the expanding DropShip debris which at that point disappeared as the debris dispersed too much to be considered to be a ship.
"Leftenant, perhaps I can explain." The Commodore said manipulating the holo-tank's controls suddenly an aerospace fighter was displayed. "You see Leftenant, not a single SLDF pilot was killed in that engagement. In fact not a single aerospace fighter pilot flies an aircraft for the Wasp or the Second Royal Armoured Calvary." He said as the holo image of the fighter rotated slowly, Alex couldn't see a cockpit just solid aeroframe all round.
"No pilots." Alex whispered still looking at the fighter.
"A drone Leftenant, the SLS Wasp is aptly named for this mission, this is the Mk.30AM Blackwasp Fighter (Advanced Model), this is one of the reasons this entire unit came into being." Bannister Cameron said stepping beside Alex who hadn't stopped looking at the craft, "I fit with this unit because I brought the funding and the name not because I am a fantastic commander. I know this Leftenant, in many ways I came to accept it, now in this 'new-world' maybe I can make a difference." He said the Melissa Davion had successfully moved away and the fighters were moving over the wreckage Alex quietly wondered what he'd fallen into by being involved here, maybe the station's nightshift was boring but sometimes "Legends" didn't play out in reality like you expected them.
Onboard SLS Wasp (Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser)
Brockway, Ridgebrook Combat Region
Capellan March, Federated Suns
7th January 3083
Over the next couple of days Alex had gotten to know the crew of the SLS Wasp far better and began to unlock some of their secrets. From what he could gather the four regiments of the Second Royal Armoured Calvary were permanently assigned to the SLS Wasp at some point after the Reunification War. The unit garrisoned a set of three worlds ensuring they remained loyal to the Star League up to the very end of the Star League-era. From what Alex could gather many of the people aboard the Wasp enjoyed their time in the Taurian Concordat and held fond memories of their tour there. Alex also found out that the SLS Wasp held more crew than most other Potemkin-class vessels with dozens of guest quarters, when he'd asked around most just said it was additional maintenance crews for the Drone fighters, which so far he'd been refused any access to see, Alex remained suspicious as there were nearly two hundred of them.
One area where Alex was making headway was with Major-General Cameron and Commodore Rae, since the SLS Wasp had emerged from its jump the crew had been stuck with emergency battlefield rations as the ship was due to restock with food at Kathil in the past, a long over due appointment. Alex had been able to convince the two commanders that they could accept food from the system and Commodore Rae had accepted some Federated Suns engineers to come aboard and check the Wasp's K-F Drive, to ensure no further miss jumps occurred, and some pre-existing structural damage from classified combat. As a result of this influx of visiting personnel Alex had been appointed, by the General, as the "AFFS liaison officer to the Wasp", if there were any problems with AFFS personnel on the Wasp Alex got called. As a result in this the Wasp's crew had begun to call him "Mr Ambassador" and Lt Sally Roberts had jokingly offered him "diplomatic" quarters, just to annoy her he'd accepted and instead of quarters near the aft section of the vessel he'd been moved to the front closer to the bridge otherwise his new quarters were no different from his old.
"Leftenant Osagie, report to the bridge, Leftenant Osagie to the bridge." A voice announced across the ship. Alex moved quickly from his quarters heading towards the nose of the ship. Now after three days with these people his AFFS uniform didn't stand out as much however they still provided him with the courtesy allowing him past in the corridors. Alex floated into the bridge and pulled himself down to the deck slipping into a pair of magnetic slippers as that sat at the entrance. The slippers allowed a wearer to "stand" upright in the zero gravity bridge and allowed them to concentrate on work instead of just staying upright. "Sir, how can I help?"
"I wondered if you knew that ship?" The Commodore said gesturing to the holo-tank, Alex hadn't even noticed it was on from the amazement he'd felt when first encountering it after just a few days he it was normal for it to be there. Alex looked at the display looking over the newly arrived contact sitting just above and to the left of the FSS Melissa Davion, it was just under seven hundred and fifty metres long and seven hundred-and-ninety tons in weight. It also carried the Cameron Star on its bow, there was only one craft of its entire class.
"That's the SLS Covenant." Alex said he'd never seen the craft but knew its story originally a Kirishima-class Cruiser vessel had been given to the SLDF for the SLDF's actions that destroyed the Smoke Jaguar Clan and ended the Clan War. At New Syrtis Shipyards the Star League had modified it and it had become the Covenant-class Heavy Cruiser. "The Commanding-General's personal WarShip." Alex explained as the vessel began to unveil its jump sail.
"Signal from Covenant, sir, they have a DropShip prepped and asking to be allowed to dock. They say they have the Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force aboard." The Communications officer said, Commodore looked at Alex who nodded.
"Allow them to dock." Rae said smirking as he looked at Alex "Mr Ambassador, perhaps you should join me. Call out for General Cameron we'll meet him at the docking bay." The Commodore said pushing off the deck he headed out of the bridge Alex followed moments later. Nearly twenty minutes later an Excalibur-class DropShip docked with the Wasp. Almost a carbon copy of the Wasp crew's arrival at the Brookway Recharge Station two Purifier Battle Armoured troopers marched from the DropShip into the Wasp's dock their armour changing colour and texture as they moved, they were followed by Commanding-General Archer Christifori and two aides.
The Commanding-General saluted crisply as he approached Bannister Cameron who returned the salute "Permission to come aboard."
"Granted, Commanding-General, it's an honour to meet you" he said extending his hand which Archer met "Major-General Bannister Cameron." He said introducing himself.
"So it is true." Archer said smiling "Archer Christifori." He said nodding slightly.
"Lyran?" Bannister asked noticing Archer's slight accent.
"Thorin in the Isle of Skye region." Archer confirmed "General, I think you and I need to have a talk. Much has changed since your disappearance."
"I agree, please come this way." Bannister said leading the way. At the back of the line Alex followed in silence, he was not only the most junior officer present but also not his position was of little importance, this was purely a Star League matter now. The two Purifier armoured troopers remaining at their posts at the entrance to the DropShip.
Some time later they were sat in one of the Wasp's Conference rooms the Wasp party on one side the Commanding-General's on the other. Alex was allowed to sit in as an official representative of the AFFS, just before he'd entered the meeting Admiral Napier aboard the FSS Melissa Davion had sent him a meeting to observe and report as much as possible, with the continued Taurian threat and the Wasp's robotic fighters still in system she'd decided to remain aboard her Cruiser. "Welcome to the 31st Century, Major-General, although I am sure this experience has not been the most pleasant on you or your people but the SLDF is very happy to see you and welcome you with open arms."
"Commanding-General, we do not yet know where we belong; perhaps the SLDF is not our home anymore." Bannister admitted recently he'd read of all the things that had happened to the Inner Sphere, some from Alex others from the records provided by Commander Hayes. He'd also heard of what had happened to the SLDF of old and the coming of the Clans, he wished... Bannister had wished many things in the last week not that he could have done much either way.
"Where would you go if not with us?"
"It is not something I have wished to think about." Bannister said quietly looking at the Commanding-General, the Successor to Aleksandr Kerensky wearing the exact uniform of old even though Archer was probably the youngest Commanding-General Bannister had ever seen he knew that in the last couple of hundred years officers, leaders and victims had become far younger than in his time. "Sir" he said respectfully "what do you know of this vessel?"
"The SLS Wasp was built in 2780 one of the last Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers completed, she was instantly assigned to the Taurian Region where she was assigned to an anti-insurgency command. The final entry we have for the vessel is its acknowledgement of Kerensky's recall message from coordinates unknown." Archer said reciting what he'd read over the last few days about the ship, Bannister laughed lightly so the Wasp's history had been accounted for if not accurately.
"Commanding-General, have you ever heard of CASE OMEGA BLACK?" Bannister asked looking at the Commanding-General it was a simple question with a far complicated answer.
"CASE OMEGA BLACK." Archer pondered glancing at his colleague who had been introduced as General Caradoc Trevena "Doc?"
"Nothing I am aware of sir, either in ComStar's records or those we've recovered from Unity City." The Intelligence chief said after a moments thought. "But there was many records lost During Amaris Occupation of Terra, the Liberation and the following Succession Wars."
"Then there is your answer General, no we don't."
"Then perhaps we should not talk further." Bannister said raising from his chair
"Sit down, General!" Archer said sternly raising from his chair "your a member of the Star League Defence Force, grow a pair and act like it." He said Bannister stared at Archer for several moments as if ready to challenge him however he sat down again. “Now General I may not know much about your operation or OMEGA BLACK but I do know something about you. A degree in Military Law by the age of twenty you became an aerospace fighter pilot, you served with three separate units before finally accepting command of the Twenty-second Royal Interceptor Wing which you commanded throughout the Reunification War. Finally just before Amaris took over Terra you were listed as being transferred to the Taurian Periphery.†Archer said.
“Operation Memory†Bannister said nodding, “I was assigned to the Periphery region and command over the Second Royal Armoured Calvary Division. We were assigned to the protection of three worlds and under orders to stop all incursions into these systems by any means.â€
“Operation Memory?†Trevena asked.
“The Star League’s research into memory armour on BattleMech, Armoured Vehicles and Aerospace Fighters.†one of Bannister’s aides said she wore Colonel insignia on her uniform. “In effect armour that would repair itself after every hit allowing an army to stay in combat longer.â€
“I’ve read the Star League’s research on this, it didn’t work†Trevena said quietly the idea of a self repairing battlefield unit had long been on many scientists wish lists however few had came to pass.
“Unfortunately you are correct General, our scientists attempts failed. However our standing orders remained and we enforced them.â€
“CASE OMEGA BLACK?†Christifori said quietly Bannister nodded.
“The scientists did their job and we did ours, dissuade any interest in our operations by military and civilian targets by any and all available means.†Bannister said looking to the table, he knew his unit had done things he wasn’t proud of. “Our Mechs and our infantry remained out of the combat zone instead the Wasp would jump in and deploy Blackwasp fighters with set orders before jumping clear. Several JumpShips and over one hundred DropShips were destroyed in operations such as this. The Blackwasps would kamikaze run into a target before being discovered. The Taurians knew it was our people but they were unable to repay us for the fighting.â€
“How did you replace your losses, surely your forces did not have unlimited Blackwasps†Trevena asked confused losing fighters in every attack must have meant the unit went through hundreds of the craft, not to mention system defences.
“One of our planets had a full production facility and the Wasp can manufacture limited amounts of craft to replace combat losses. We mothballed our facilities when we left relying on those aboard Wasp to maintain us until we arrived with the rest of the SLDF.â€
“Manufacturing facilities aboard this vessel. How extensive?†Trevena asked seeing the potential of having a mobile production facility and automated combat units.
“Limited but we have plans for larger facilities.â€
“Back on track.†Christifori said looking at the General “So your people were not directly involved in harming the Taurians?â€
“Only on rare occasions when they penetrated our defences, a swarm of Blackwasp AM models is a formidable force however it is possible to avoid them. When that happened the Second Armoured was called to defend our territory.â€
“Against military targets?â€
“Of course Civilians had little interest in our systems only one had a habitable world and there wasn’t a significant civilian population there. Both others are dead worlds which we used as cover.â€
“So the Taurians are angry because you got away from them and they couldn’t hit back.†Christifori said slowly piecing it together “and the Wasp’s combat damage?â€
“When Exodus was called by General Kerensky we answered unfortunately the Taurians took issue with this. We were attacked three times during our trip through the Concordat.†Bannister explained “the rest you know, sir.â€
“And now your plans?†Christifori asked neutrally. “There can be a place within the Star League for you.â€
“We have missed much.†Bannister said quietly
“And there is much still to happen. Rejoin the Star League help us make a difference.â€
Hours later Leftenant Alex Osagie was stood on the shuttle dock waiting for his transport back to the Recharge Station. Major-General Bannister Cameron and Lieutenant Sally Roberts both approached him at the bay. “General, I regret my time aboard the Wasp was so short.â€
“Yes Leftenant, it was enlightening for us both I am sure.â€
“So you’re headed for Kittery?†Alex asked Christifori had offered to take them to Kittery at the first meeting but he’d missed the second meeting as the Federated Suns was closed out of the negotiations.
“Aye, the Commanding-General has extended our decision time. Commodore Rae appears to be inclined to join the rebuilt League, however we will see how things pan out.â€
“Sir, it was an honour to meet you and your people.†Alex said saluting Bannister instead extended his arm and shook Alex’s hand.
“Leftenant, the honour was ours.†He said stepping back allowing Sally Roberts to step forward.
“Take care of yourself.†She said wrapping her arms around Alex’s neck giving him a small peck on the cheek before stepping back saluting Alex who returned her salute with a smile.
“Legends salute, there is an officer disembarking.†Bannister said raising his arm in salute joining Sally, all around the bay crewmen joined the General saluting, Alex smiled embarrassed before ducking into the shuttle. Soon after he was aboard the small craft heading back towards the Recharge Station, behind the shuttle the SLS Wasp finished pulling in its jump sail.
“Legends departing.†Alex said quietly looking at the rear facing monitor as the 1.5million ton Troop Cruiser vanished in a flash, some Legends were solved in the end. Perhaps after today he’d change things in his life. The Legends of old would certainly be changing other peoples lives.
-
Royal Palace, Nationwide announcement
New Samarkand, District of Midway
Draconis Combine
12th January 3083
Sitting behind a wooden desk Warlord of the Draconis Combine Minoru Kurita looked at the Tri-Vid camera he took a deep breath and nodded to the camera person to begin the broadcast which would be transmitted across the nation. “People of the Draconis Combine, I Minoru Kurita would like to announce as of today the Twelfth of January 3083 that all our foreign borders have been reopened to guests. There will be continued high security at the Snow Raven and the Ghost Bear borders however I am pleased to say that this dark time has passed.†He paused looking at his hands then back at the camera “all our people have suffered recently now it is time for us to move forward to mend the wounds caused and to grow as a nation. I am proud to serve as our nations Warlord, I will hope you will support me as we move forward.†He said looking at the camera man he nodded and the feed cut, today officially the investigation was over however Akira Tormarks Sons of the Dragon still had a couple of investigations to complete these shouldn’t affect the borders being opened or not, it was time for the economy to heal.
Iran BattleMechs Unlimited
Iran, Rousset-Marik Alliance
Former Free Worlds League
21st January 3083
With the growing Star League Defence Force the need for further combat units was beginning to show fortunately the Star League Protectorate had grown as well and with fifteen worlds contributing to the continued strengthening of the Star League Defence Force. Although much of this funding went towards the continued growth of the Battle Armour Corps and the reactivation of damaged WarShips the Star League sees the need for new BattleMech units as well commissioning Iran BattleMechs for three production runs of a new Heavy Cavalry BattleMech unit capable of independent operations.
-
Marian Hegemony Raids
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Former Free Worlds League
2nd February 3083
Supported by the Hanse, a Lola III-class Destroyer, Marian Hegemony flagged units raid the Duchy of Tamarind Abby. The Marian Hegemony BattleMechs and armour forces are supported by a newly debuted Battle Armour unit named the Ravager. This assault class suit is capable of dealing heavy armour to infantry forces and threaten the armoured vehicles of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby. Although unable to make jumps the unit can take heavy damage and appears to carry some sort of rockets and a Heavy Recoiless Rifle. The Duchy of Tamarind-Abby Militia forces are taken by complete surprise and are forced back.
 
Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division HQ
Kittery, Capellan March
Federated Suns
10th February 3083
With clearance from Commanding-General Archer Christifori the entire Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division had landed on Kittery twenty-five DropShips in all, eleven Regiments of Mechs and Infantry had been given a full five square kilometres of ground. It still didn’t seem much, with the units carrying about dependents as well as the troopers and officers. Directly above them the SLS Wasp was stationed in high orbit providing the ultimate protection while flying constant Combat Air Patrols (CAP). Commanding-General Christifori had guaranteed their safety however Major-General Cameron planned on ensuring there were no surprises from this resurgent SLDF, the Federated Suns or Capellan Confederation. Upon request Commanding-General Christifori also provided historical information from the time the Wasp disappeared to its return with this information at hand the Second retreat into a state of discussion about their situation and their options they allow no-one from the outside world in for three weeks with BattleMech and Blackwasp patrols keeping all interest back.
Asteroid Impact
Copper Sea, Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
18th February 3083
The sky over Luthien, the Draconis Combine’s capitol world is lit up by a huge nuclear explosion as the Raven’s Roost; an Inazuma II-class Corvette explodes just outside Luthien orbit. Many wonder if one of the Clans or the Black Dragons have returned to cause ruin to their lives however these fears are shattered by the realization that it is something much worse. Less than one hour later the first great meteor shower of Luthien begins with impacts across the Hokkaido continent many massive shards striking in and around Luthien City. The shower lasts hours with the people of Luthien powerless to resist.
As the people’s population head for the emergency shelters not used since the Clan Invasion however the true extent of the disaster unfolds as the Elite Second Genyosha Regiment is obliterated by as its base is torn off the face of the planet by an asteroid impact. The planet continues to reel from the impacts as a second and third shower bombard the planet over the course of three days.
Finally after mere hours of peace, just as the population think their nightmare is over, the final massive blow is struck as a three kilometre wide asteroid thunders into the atmosphere with a massive explosion is seen and felt across the globe. The huge asteroid cruises through the atmosphere breaking into several large shards as Luthien's atmosphere tried and fails to consume it, the final piece still over a kilometre in diametre slams into the Copper Sea. Massive explosions and tsunamis follow with nearly none of Luthien left untouched Skytower City and Buda Weapons Sector on the Aichi Island Continent are vaporized almost instantly, while other sections of the planet are flooded and would remain so for weeks to come.
Hundreds of tons of rocks are thrown up by the impact tainting the atmosphere, almost as soon as the showers have ended scientists begin to report massive storms crossing the planet and huge temperature drops that go against all historical trends. Warlord Minoru Kurita emerges from his bunker under the Imperial Palace and immediately orders all available transports to travel to Luthien to render aid to the stricken population. Hours later as seismic activity, tsunamis and major volcanic eruptions continue to tear the planet apart causing unthinkable damage Minoru issues another message to the people of the Combine, this time it is little more than a plea, to all transports to evacuate his dying world.
Corporate Raid
Lth, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
21st February 3081
The Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment was beginning to think the “DMI†employers were not completely on the level. Their most recent contract was a raid against Achernar BattleMechs plant on New Avalon, the Wild Geese connection to Achernar was not a broadcasted fact however anyone within the DMI would have know of the connection. Brigadier General Alisande Faulkner agreed to conduct the raid against her sub-commanders objections however she also sent word along on back channels to Achernar BattleMechs warning them of the impending attack this resulted in Achernar complaining directly to the DMI and the First Prince’s officer regarding the planned attack.
The Department of Military Intelligence was taken completely unaware by the revelation of the attack as to their knowledge the Wild Geese were not under the employ of any Federated Suns Agency and had not been since they disagreed with treatment by the Quartermaster’s office. Instead the DMI agree to help Achernar take damage during the attack from the Wild Geese. Achernar send back information to the Wild Geese about specific targets to attack and ways around the “thick†defences.
When the Wild Geese attack there is much commotion, damage, and impressive fireworks with dozens of AFFS “bodies†the Wild Geese powered down weapons hurting but not killing a single person. The Wild Geese strike team capture two brand-new Grenadier Battle Armour suits before escaping. No AFFS pursuit lasts more than a couple of kilometres from the planet.
Away from New Avalon Alisande Faulkner presents her units prize to her employer however behind the scenes both the Wild Geese and the DMI begin investigations into who actually holds the Wild Geese Contract.
Bondsman’s Quarters
Alpha Galaxy Command
Csesztreg, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
29th February 3083
“Star Colonel Jake Kabrinski, you are defeated I claim you as a bondsman to Clan Hell's Horses." The words echoed in Jake's mind his unit had been taken by surprise by a Hell's Horses unit he knew that Star Commander Lita his Mech Commander had been killed in the fire fight as had much of his nova however some how he had been defeated and now was a bondsman. He hadn't even seen his bondmaster yet instead the Hell's Horses Intelligence staff had given him the once over and he'd been thrown into a small room. Jake was, had been, a Star Captain of Clan Ghost Bear and a bloodnamed warrior, he deserved more than what he'd received.
Finally after what seemed like hours the doors opened "This way please." One of the two armoured Elementals said at the door Jake was confused why would they need two armoured Elementals for him, sure he'd killed the previous Hell's Horses Khan Malavei Fletcher in 3063 but that was ancient history, twenty years ago. They were the Clans he was Ghost Bear now he was Hell's Horses the two did not like each other much but he'd learn to adapt and with hope fight again.
Jake was led down the corridors typical Clan corridors missing of much in the way of decoration or distraction finally he was led past a reception desk with a freeborn woman sitting behind it "He is waiting for you." She said as they passed. The lead Elemental opened the door and stepped to one side the second Elemental followed Jake in and stepped to the other closing the door behind them.
"Jake Kabrinski, welcome to Csesztreg capital of the Hell's Horses." Jake was slightly taken aback he was light years from his previous posting, no doubt the Watch staff playing tricks with drugs he silently cursed. "I am Khan James Cobb."
"My Khan, an honour" Jake said inclining his head slightly, despite his previous position as a Ghost Bear and enemy of the Horses he knew his new place.
"I am sure Jake, I am sure that you would also gladly end my existence just as you did Malavei."
"I did what was required of me as a warrior of Clan Ghost Bear. I am now a Hell's Horse quiaff?"
"Aff, you are Jake." Cobb said looking at the Elementals "leave us, wait outside." He ordered firmly Cobb was an Elemental himself but his weight of words certainly brought more to bare than just his size also his standing. Both Elementals saluted and stepped out of the room.
"Jake I wonder do you know the story of Phelan Ward?" Cobb asked moving around the table to stand in front of Jake.
"The Freebirth surat†Jake cursed “captured by Clan Wolf during the opening days of Revival, aff, now Phelan Kell of the Exiles."
"Very good, I wonder if you knew the exact way of his capture?" Jake remained silent "MechWarrior Vlad, who would later become Vlad Ward Khan of the Wolves would capture Phelan but Ulric Kerensky as Khan of the Wolf Clan claimed Phelan as his own because he believed that Phelan had more use to him than just Vlad's bondsman."
"My Khan, what difference does this make to me?" Jake asked confused "Phelan was an Inner Sphere Freeborn, I am a Clan trueborn Elemental, a Bloodnamed warrior like yourself." Jake said confidently, reminding his new Khan exactly what the Hell's Horses had captured. "I have no interest in splitting the Clans I want to be a Warrior for my Clan."
"I know that Jake, which is why I have decided that you will be my bondsman. Just as Phelan Kell became Ulric’s bondsman, someone who helped the Wolf Clan win the most victories in Operation Revival now you will help me settle the Hell's Horse in its new home. We will do great things Jake Kabrinski, and perhaps you will be a warrior again, far faster than you are expecting." James Cobb said raising Jake's left arm he cut the first white cord around his wrist, Jake smiled perhaps his new life would be even better than his last.
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Border skirmish
Marian Hegemony/Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
10th March 3083
Marian Hegemony aerospace fighters and DropShips ambush the SLS Maker, a Carrack-class Light Corvette/Transport, in the Cerillos system. The Maker had been delivering supplies to a new SLDF base that had just been brought online on Abby and was returning to Dieron for further supplies. The Maker although primarily a transport craft is still a WarShip and is more than a match for the aerospace fighters and their carriers however the SLDF withdraw the vessel from the area. The Marian troops return home with tales of their victory however the Star League have other ideas.
Second Royal Armoured Calvary Division HQ
Kittery, Star League Base
Capellan March, Federated Suns
20th March 3083
Following weeks of seclusion the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division had sent word to Commanding-General Archer Christifori that they were ready to talk about their future. Almost at the same time Archer had received word of a Conquistador-class DropShip call sign "Revenant One" inbound to the Star League base's main landing field. Archer knew exactly who it was even before his comm. officer had said anything, he'd been a Revenant when the Regiment fought in the Clan War the DropShip was First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion's personal ship. No doubt if they checked the space around Kittery they'd find at least one Federated Suns WarShip, this close to the Capellan border there could be more.
"Signal from DropShip sir, single Company BattleMechs disembarking."
"Understood allow it†Archer said this may be a Federated Suns world but the territory controlled by the SLDF was considered to be SLDF sovereign territory "I'll meet them at the guest BattleMech bay." he said grabbing his uniform jacket heading for a Rotunda Armoured Car.
Nearly twenty minutes later Archer was in the Mechbay looking up at twelve BattleMechs including two that stood out from all the others. The first was a Clan built Dire Wolf OmniMech painted in Lyran Commonwealth colours of deep blue and silver piping with the Federated Sun sword-and-sunburst on the side and on the right knee and the no. "1" on the left knee. The second was a seventy-five ton Falconer, the squat Inner Sphere design had a long Gauss Rifle barrel at the end of one hand and a "hand-gun" look-alike Extended Range Particle cannon on the other its paint scheme similar to the first however it had the crest of the First Canopian Guards instead of the Federated Suns. Archer knew both Mechs from the Clan War and their pilots despite having a Division of troops waiting for him he decided to wait patiently at the front of the Mechbay for the pilots, it was a dangerous enough place at the best of times without high level visitors holding a meeting there. Within a few minutes of the two Mechs powering down First Prince Victor Ian Steiner-Davion and his wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion were approaching the booth. Despite his many years with the SLDF Archer Christifori still considered Victor Davion to be his liege lord and with him the current First Lord the two mated together well Archer snapped to a traditional Lyran salute as Victor approached "Sire, it's my honour to welcome you to Kittery." He said out of respect both Victor and Danai returned his salute Victor with a small smile. When Victor had commanded the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT - The Revenants - during the Clan War he'd never forgotten any of his troopers or missed returning their salute it was a mark of respect and discipline he'd installed in the Regiment which had lasted the entire war and eventually brought the unit to the Federated Suns.
"It's an honour to be here Commanding-General" Victor said extending his hand which Archer shook. "I've come to meet Bannister Cameron and his troops. I am the First Lord after all†he said "perhaps I can swing their decision process over to rejoining the SLDF."
"Sire, I think they have decided." Archer said leading Victor and Danai to the waiting Rotunda "just yesterday Major-General Cameron sent me a message asking to see me at my earliest convenience. I was just away to meet him when your DropShip announced its arrival."
"What timing." Victor remarked Archer quietly thought that Victor had probably known of the message from Cameron already but there was no way to travel from New Avalon to Kittery in less than a day unless he was already in the area.
Forty minutes later the Rotunda escorted by a heavy SLDF BattleMech lancer approached the border of the area controlled by the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division. As per the agreement made between Archer and Bannister none of the new SLDF Mechs or aerospace units had crossed the line. Ahead along the road stood a lance of SLDF Mechs an assault type Highlander, a pair of heavy Shootist BattleMechs and a Thug Assault Mech. "We're being past to local control sir." The driver said looking at Archer who nodded, despite this being a Federated Suns world and Victor's current position as First Lord these things meant very little on the front-line, Archer's position on the other hand meant a lot to these people.
"Understood, have our escort join the Fist Royal BattleMech Regiment; they should be on exercise in the area." Archer ordered turning back to face Victor "coincidence, sire" Archer said with his own mischievous smile Victor Steiner-Davion wasn't the only one with cards to play, although locally the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry had numbers if need be both Archer and Victor could call overwhelming numbers onto their positions, although that wasn't the favoured course of action.
The Rotunda with its new escort snaked past the DropShips that made up the Division's outer inner perimeter, an army alone would be needed to get past the twenty-three grounded vessels. Two of the DropShips had returned to orbit after a few days on the ground the Titan-class Carriers and their crews better suited for space operations, instead they had become the unit's rapid response unit deploying Blackwasp AM fighters on patrol. Inside the inner perimeter the SLDF troops had erected a tent city for their personnel and their dependants’ nearly ten thousand people on the ground. In the centre a marquee-styled tent had been erected and it was there their BattleMech support stopped Archer Christifori stepped out of the vehicle first followed by Danai Centrella-Davion and finally Victor Steiner-Davion they were met by one of Major-General Cameron's aides who escorted them into the tent. At the door two sentries snapped to salute as they saw Archer's uniform and the Cameron Star on Victor's AFFS uniform, Archer, Victor and Danai returned the salute as they entered the tent.
Inside the structure it didn't feel like a tent at all instead solid flooring covered the ground and walls divided the area into dozens of rooms. As they moved through Archer could see rooms from floor to ceiling full of computer equipment. They were led through the complex of rooms to a single more open space and a long table at the centre of it with Bannister Cameron and his most senior officers standing at their positions. Each saluted as Archer entered "Commanding-General Christifori, welcome to the command hub of the Star League Defence Force's Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division" Bannister welcomed as Archer Victor and Danai took their places at the table, their escort Colonel moving to her position.
"Thank you Major General, allow me to introduce First Prince of the Federated Suns, Duke of Tharkad, and current Star League Defence Force First Lord Victor Ian Steiner-Davion." Archer said proudly using all of Victor's official titles. Around the table the SLDF officers all took higher note of Victor. "And with him, his wife, Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion, the Duchess of Canopus, Magestix in Exile." Archer continued using Danai's own rarely used Magestix title, even Danai looked slightly unsettled with its use.
"Welcome" Bannister said "I did not realize you were bringing such honoured guests, we would have mustered for parade." He apologized looking slightly annoyed.
"No need, General, our visit was not scheduled." Victor said "I thought it only right that the First Lord meet you here on the first Star League soil you have touched since your disappearance." Victor said continuing "as I am the First Lord it was my duty to ensure that you continued to enjoy the security and hospitality of the Federated Suns." He said welcoming them all the best he could Victor hadn't planned on meeting them all today only Bannister Cameron, already word of his arrival back in the Inner Sphere was spreading and as eleventh in line for the original Star League throne many were asking when a Cameron would retake the position.
"We have indeed First Prince Steiner-Davion, the Federated Suns has been a most welcoming host however we..." he said raising his arms to engulf all his command staff "...have made a decision about our place in this future." He said "we are Star League Defence Force, there isn't a place for us in Exile and I am sorry to say we couldn't serve any of you Succession Lords." He said looking at Victor "instead we want to re-enlist, the Star League is and always will be our home."
"You are very welcome" Archer Christifori said proudly "the Star League has taken great strives to rebuild its defence force and its standing in the Inner Sphere. Your inclusion within my forces brings great pride." This brought smiles from all around the table, we will arrange a base of operations for your unit shortly. We will do our utmost to keep the Second together however combat loss may result in transfers in and out." Archer said moving on he was the senior SLDF officer present these people were now his.
"That is one of things sir" Bannister said respectfully "my unit has dependants and numbers that are more than likely greater than any other unit in the Inner Sphere. We'd like to stay together build our own city, I've spoken to the civilian scientists that occupied the research facility and they have agreed they would prefer to stay with us."
"I'm not sure what I can promise you General..."
"Perhaps this would be more my area Arch" Victor said quietly "Major-General Cameron as the sitting First Lord I can pull political and financial pressure on the other Succession Lords, and there are positions within the Star League Protectorate that may be suitable. I cannot guarantee you somewhere today however I will do my best to make sure you all have a home before my term is over. In the meantime as First Prince of the Federated Suns I will ensure the Capellan March supplies this Division with anything it requires, consider yourselves our guests." Around the table he saw nods from each of the officers including Bannister Cameron who rose to his feet and saluted both Victor and Archer.
"Cavaliers you are dismissed, pass the word we're staying for a while." Bannister said looking at his subordinates each nodded stood and saluted Archer before leaving the room leaving only Bannister and his aide, the Colonel that had guided them to the room in the first place. "Gentlemen, I thank you for your kind words, it is good to feel welcome again. I am glad we emerged from our jump when we did but I also know that the Inner Sphere has changed there are factors within the Inner Sphere that may react..." he paused "hostilely to our appearance. I wanted you both to know that we will stand by you and your decisions. I have no ambitions for anything other than the protection of the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry."
"Thank you General, we will do our best to ensure that support is not misplaced." Archer said raising from his chair.
"And I will do my best to shield you from undue attention." Victor said also standing up the three men exchanged nods then handshakes before being led from the tent by the Colonel once again.
"Thank you Colonel" Archer said reaching the Rotunda "I'm sorry I didn't catch the name?"
"Colonel Andrea Kincaid"
"Kincaid not related to..." Victor began overhearing the name.
"The same sire†she said respectfully “much removed on my side but the family certainly traces its steps through Charles Kincaid." She said naming her famous ancestor the first pilot of a BattleMech Colonel Charles Kincaid. "I was good meeting you I hope to see you all again." She said as Archer, Victor and Danai climbed into the Rotunda and were escorted out of the encampment.
“Archer I was thinking we may stay a few days.†Victor said quietly it had been a long time since he’d spent time on the Capellan border and he wouldn’t mind seeing some of the Star League facilities, also he’d be able to keep an eye on the Second Armoured Cavalry.
“Of course.†Archer replied
"So they were the Legends." Danai whispered "An interesting day" Danai said, both men nodded their silent agreement, every day would be an interesting day for a while.
Nadir Jump Point
Evacuation Luthien
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
22nd March 3083
Ever JumpShip and available WarShip were transporting DropShips and small craft from the Luthien system as the planet became more and more unstable and even these actions were not enough still people were dying on the planet's surface as the after affects of the asteroid impact continued to be felt. At the jump point the DCS Omi Kurita, the lead vessel of the Omi Kurita-class Carrier sat laden with civilians and civilian DropShips, they were pushing the vessel's life support limits and still behind schedule. "Sir, we have radiation signatures. There are more ships in bound, many of them!" The sensor operator shouted although he was tired the sensor readings could not be wrong there was a group of ships incoming.
Moments after the radiation wave was detected a huge Leviathan 2-class Battleship jumped into the system, across its nose the Ghost Bear insignia of the Rasalhague Dominion and the name Rasalhague. "God have mercy" someone whispered on the bridge as the ship deployed DropShips, on a closer examination they looked like Mule-class Cargo haulers.
"They attack our bones as we lay wasting away." The Captain said "battle stations." He said knowing it was almost impossible the Omi Kurita could even make battle stations currently holding so many civilians.
"Sir, incoming from the Rasalhague audio only."
"Draconis Combine vessels this is Khan Bjorn Jorgensson of Clan Ghost Bear we come in peace, our people are here to assist in the evacuation of Luthien, we wish to help defeat your enemy... Time. We have resources to assist."
"Can it be..." the captain whispered before hitting the communication button on his console "this is Captain Jiri Moto, how can one ship help a dying world of billions." he transmitted even a ship the size of the Leviathan-class would struggle with the disaster that had befallen Luthien.
"It cannot, but this can." The Ghost Bear Khan said moments later two Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers, both carrying the Diamond Shark insignia that was almost becoming common in the Draconis Combine, jumped in deploying DropShips all were civilians cargo haulers and civilian personnel transports. Moments after this arrival two more dark painted ships appeared the first the Captain recognized as a Fredasa-class Corvette the second he couldn't make out. "We the Clans will help defeat your enemy. The Ghost Bears and Diamond Sharks await your orders. Clan Nova Cat's Sandra Rosse and Swift Strike will secure these points and allow you to travel away. All of our warriors have pledged to assist you to defeat this enemy, no one should face mother nature on their own."
Applause erupted on the Omi Kurita's bridge as the crew realized the miracle they'd been waiting for had arrived but the Captain remained quiet "Can we trust you?" He asked as the room calmed down.
"You have little choice, and if you try to engage us you will have no chance. Allow us to help, we can fight on another day." The captain looked around the room and saw the hopeful faces of his crew and a couple of civilians who had somehow reached the bridge.
"I will contact Luthien to confirm your clearance, remain out with a days travel of the planet until this is cleared or you will be considered hostile." He said still guarded then realized probably for the first time what they were doing "than... thank you Khan Ghost Bear." He stuttered out a tear breaking his hard exterior "thank you all for this." He said as the Leviathan and the two Potemkins headed in system with their DropShips, perhaps they'd help save more lives. At the jump point Nova Cat DropShips and fighters not equipped for civilian transport were already taking over and assisting Draconis Combine Admiralty forces in organising the Jump Points amazingly no one had opened fire Jiri guessed everyone was as surprised as him.
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Fort Winson
Dieron, Dieron Military District
Draconis Combine
5th April 3083
Despite security measures to contain the information within the SLDF the arrival of the Second Armoured Cavalry Division from its "time-jump" had spread like wildfire reaching Dieron and the Eridani Light Horse. Still attached to the Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment as a liaison force the Clan Goliath Scorpion Second Trinary of the Third Seeker Cluster of Chi Galaxy hears of these arrivals from the distant past. Star Captain Rufus tracked down Lieutenant-General Edwin Amis, commander of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade who was coordinating the loading of supplies into a large DropShip.
"Leiutenant-General Amis" Rufus said respectfully approaching, they'd been here for so long now and been no trouble so the Eridani no longer bothered posting a guard with the Goliath Scorpion personnel. It appeared that these Clansmen really were more interested in learning about the Eridani Light Horse and Fort Dieron than causing trouble both were holy relics according to Rufus and they had to find a way to show the other Clans this fact showing the Clans were not beyond redemption.
"Yes Star Captain, how can I assist?"
"We have heard stories..." He began
"Concerning Luthien? Yes we have heard the same an asteroid slammed into the planet. We are preparing relief supplies right now, it appears the evacuation is well under way. According to reports Clans Ghost Bear and Diamond Shark have stepped in and declared themselves the new age Interstellar Red Cross providing evacuation transport Pro-bono, would you believe. Quineg?"
"Aff General, I would, many times in Clan history two Clans have put their differences aside to avert a natural disaster, and the Homeworlds are far harsher than some of the Inner Sphere's worlds." Rufus paused for a moment "Sir, with respect that was not what I referred to." He said quietly not wanting to distract the General too much "there is a rumour that a true relic of the Star League, living and breathing has returned missing in a jump for nearly three hundred years since the Exodus. We would very much like to meet them."
"You have as much information as I do, they are in seclusion on Kittery by all accounts there is a near blackout on all information coming out."
"General, my people are keen to learn more, we are Seekers it is our calling."
"When I learn more I will assist. For now Luthien needs our help."
 
Azemi High Council
Alegdi, Benjamin Military District
Draconis Combine
15th April 3083
The Azemi High Council detected an incoming asteroid on Alegdi and called for DCMS assistance. Unfortunately operations were still ongoing to evacuate Luthien and there was no reply. The Azemi ordered their hidden stockpile of nuclear weapons used to engage the asteroids. Six aerospace fighters rose from the atmosphere engaging the asteroid each carrying a nuclear warhead. Four caused hits were caused against the asteroid causing heavy surface damage but little else, the last fighter flew directly into the asteroid with its nuclear warhead however even this did little overall damage.
The asteroid entered the atmosphere at 1800hrs exploding as it entered the upper atmosphere sending smaller asteroids all across the desert of Alegdi before finally coming to rest. With no return message from the DCMS the Azemi recalled the Arkab Legions to the planet to help with aid but even then they struggled.
Graduation Ceremony
Nagelring Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
20th April 3083
Commander of the Kell Hounds Colonel Daniel Allard watches as his eldest son Patrick Allard graduates from Nagelring Officer Candidate School on Tharkad. Dan is filled with mixed emotions of pride as a father and concern for his sons health as he takes the bars of an LCAF Leutenant. He will serve with the First Royal Guards RCT for five years before transferring his commission to the Kell Hounds.
Border Raids
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
28th April 3083
The Silver Hawks Regiment of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth raid the Lyran Commonwealth's Isle of Skye raiding several worlds before landing on Murphid. There they are met by the First Hesperus Guards Regiment in their first combat assignment. In three days the assault Mechs of the Hesperus Guards smash and drive the Silverhawks from the planet proving they are more than a show unit.
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Silverdale (Conqueror-class Battle-crusier)
Radstadt, Ghost Bear Dominion
3rd May 3083
"Three, two, one and jump!" The Jump officer ordered as the Silverdale fired its K-F Drive the ship disappeared from the Nadir point above Radstadt's sun. After a few minutes the Battle-cruiser reappeared at the Zenith point below the sun, the ship completing the exact same jump as originally done by the TAS Pathfinder the first ever JumpShip.
"Sirs, jump complete. Sandra Rosse and escorts on sensors. We have returned to the Radstadt system. Full functionality." He said looking at the two Star Admirals at the centre of the bridge one in Ghost Bear uniform the other in Nova Cat uniform.
"Congratulations Star Admiral McKenna your people have done an incredible job." Star Admiral Daniel Gilmour the commander of the Silverdale said finally his ship would be free to leave the system.
"Well I think it was worth it." he said looking at the holotank image of his Clan's newest Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser, the Ghost Bears payment for the Nova Cat's help in repairing the damaged Silverdale. Star Admiral McKenna also saw the Aesir and Vanir-class DropShips attached to his WarShips collars recently delivered by the Ghost Bears in payment for the Nova Cat's assistance during the evacuation of Luthien.
"I would very much like to know the price of the Sovereign’s services on a permanent basis."
"We are not merchants, Quineg?"
"Neg, but the Bears could have use for such a craft."
"I could say with quiet confidence that it would be impossible to predict how much that craft is worth to the Nova Cats." Anders said honestly "though we could trade the design layouts so you could build more."
"Now who is the merchant?" Gilmour asked teasing the Nova Cat, the two Clans had never been allies but their politics always seemed to run closely together making this exchange easier than most.
"For what price?"
"Ten Ostrogoth OmniFighters." Anders said quietly "and permission from the Bears to manufacture more."
"The Ostrogoth is a brand-new Heavy OmniFighter that is quite valuable in itself."
"And the Legacy-class can maintain your fleet indefinitely." Anders reminded the Ghost Bear.
"Well bargained and done, Star Admiral" Gilmour said after a moment offering his hand.
"Selya" Anders agreed taking Gilmour's forearm they held this pose for several moments before releasing honouring the agreement made.
"We will transfer the fighters to your ships before you leave the Dominion. It will include full schematics."
"And we will have the Legacy's sent to you as soon as I return to the Sandra Rosse." Anders promised, without another word he left the Ghost Bear bridge heading for his own DropShip one of the newly acquired Aesir DropShips before heading back to the Sandra Rosse, yes this year long trip had been well worth the Nova Cat's time.
ALPHA SITE
Classified Location
Federated Suns
14th May 3083
"I was the one that agreed to the contract with this fake DMI, I will be the one that prosecutes our revenge against them. We have tracked them to Norfolk a planet deep within the former Free Worlds League. I have already booked us passage on a Clan Sea Fox Invader-class JumpShip this will allow us to cross the borders without questions asked. We will drop on Norfolk take back the honour that has been stolen from us and return. I need volunteers to crew our Fortress-class DropShip. Have them meet me at 0600 tomorrow morning, we will boost to meet the AFFS JumpShip and begin our journey. Questions?" There were none "good, speak to your men. Make sure they all know the risks I don't expect anyone to go on this mission without knowing." Brigadier General Alisande Faulkner said briefing her people with the help of the true Davion DMI the Wild Geese had secured the location of their contract holders deep within the Free Worlds League Alisande felt her honour had been taken and that she wanted revenge she knew that many within the Regiment felt the same so a strike was the only way.
The next morning they had nearly half the Regiment volunteer for the mission Alisande was forced to take lots to decide who would go and who would stay. At 0630 the DropShip took off rendezvousing with a JumpShip that would take then to the Sea Fox vessel that would allow them to cross the Successor State borders.
 
Star League Advisory Council
Star League Compound, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
29th May 3083
It had been several months since the senior officers of the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division had met with First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Commanding-General when Bannister Cameron had been summoned to Defiance deep in the Crucis March of the Federated Suns. Joining Commanding-General Archer Christifori aboard the SLS Covenant Bannister had been told that Defiance was the home to the Star League Advisory Council and the Martial Olympiad grounds. When he arrived he could see exactly what the Commanding-General had meant when he said "a city has grown up around the place." The Martial Olympiad grounds and the Advisory Council Hall were now surrounded with training ranges, guest quarters, a growing space port and in more recent years a growing civilian population in the area had fostered communities forming around the area, the expanse of buildings covered a quarter of the main continent's land mass.
On landing Commanding-General Christifori had headed off to make preparations of their meeting leaving Bannister to his own devices within the local spaceport. Archer had told him that the local air was tainted and it wasn't best to go outside but the local spaceport visitor area had plenty to keep someone occupied. Reaching the bazaar area Bannister realized exactly what Archer had meant there was stalls from almost everyone one of the Successor States, each of the periphery states and even the MRBC held an information stand. It felt strange to be here alone away from the rest of the unit during their time on the Taurian Periphery it had been almost exclusively Second Armoured personnel or SLDF afflicted scientists then since their leap in time the unit's only contact had been with SLDF and AFFS personnel. Now at Defiance although definitely a Davion world it was all completely different for Bannister as civilians, mercenaries and military personnel moved along. Bannister could see that fashion had taken a nose dive in the last three centuries instead things looked on the whole more functional, the goods for sale ranged from Periphery slums to exotic Clan manufactured items to general riff-raff he'd seen time and again. Much of it was functional goods but seemed to be of a low quality, easily manufactured nature.
"Excuse me, Major-General, the council will see you." A young Lieutenant said approaching Bannister laid down the piece he was looking at and turned to face the young man.
"Lead on." He said the officer nodded and smartly turned around briskly walking from the area heading deeper into the enclosed facility. Bannister knew the atmospheric scrubbers were beginning to clean up the atmosphere across the globe however it was years if not decades away from being safe for human life all the time.
They walked silently through the facility before reaching a large pair of wooden doors with polished silver handles. At either side of the door a pair of SLDF Sergeants dressed in their dress uniform holding laser rifles with bayonets attached, both stood to attention as Bannister and the Lieutenant approached. The Lieutenant stood at attention at the door for a moment and in a well practiced move the two Sergeants opened the doors as one revealing a large internal room with a raised semi-circle of seats each with a person sitting in front of a national flag in front of them a single podium sat facing the others. In the centre First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion stood dressed in the full uniform of an AFFS Marshal behind him the Cameron Star hung. "Announcing Major-General Bannister Cameron." the Lieutenant said as Bannister moved forward to the central podium.
"Welcome to Defiance Bannister Cameron." Victor Steiner-Davion greeted "As I'm sure you have worked out General we have been discussing your unit's future and your request for the unit to have a homeworld to call its own."
"Yes sir."
"Unfortunately we have not found a world you can call solely your own without placing you in the Periphery far from any support or civilization."
"I understand First Lord, what is to become of us?" Bannister said resigned he'd read about the Inner Sphere and the Succession Wars he knew many of the gems of the Star League were now burned to ash.
"Although I cannot offer you a planet how would an island sound?"
"An island?"
"Yes, on the world of Liberty, which you likely know as Carver V, isolated from the rest of the planet we have selected three suitable islands that have been all but abandoned since the fall of the Star League. You may have some of the local wild life to contend with however there is little else."
"Sir, remind me if I am wrong but the Star League's Marines Administration bases were on Car... Liberty." He said stumbling over the name recognizing it for things other than what Victor had suggested.
"Indeed Camp Pendleton, within the Quantico Marine Fortification, we have yet to establish it as a base the fortification is long over grown, Kerensky's army took all the important pieces with them."
"Perhaps once we have re-established our own people on this world the Second Armoured would be allowed to restore the remains? It would give my people something to drive towards and somewhere to house our Drone facilities."
"I am afraid that will take a backseat General." Commanding-General Archer Christifori said stepping in from the side "you will be allowed to keep the drones manufactured and the personnel required to keep them in operation however all construction facilities are to be handed over to SLDF R&D pending an inquiry."
"Inquiry?" Bannister said trying not to sound hostile.
"The Taurian Concordat has logged an official complaint against the Second Royal Armoured Calvary Division for their actions during the Star League periods."
"You cannot be serious?" Bannister asked feeling angry "we were at war with them. My people followed their orders and their Rules of Engagement."
"General, you have my support and the Support of the First Lord regarding your actions however the Taurian Leader is new and trying to flex muscles he more than likely does not have. We will beat this charge." Archer said in a quieter voice so the delegates could not hear. "Your orders stand General." Archer said.
"Yes sir" Bannister said saluting the Commanding-General turning back to the First Lord "First Lord Davion, I thank you for the offer, we will take it. By your leave, sir." Bannister said saluting.
"Granted." Victor said returning the salute. Bannister did a perfect point turn and marched from the room. Commanding General Christifori also salute Victor before following the Major-General, Bannister had just had his first taste of Inner Sphere politics and Archer was sure he hadn't like it.
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Marian Hegemony/FWL border
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
12th June 3083
In response to the Marian Hegemony attack on the SLS Maker the Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser SLS Invincible is redirected by the SLDF to the Marian Hegemony border with orders to interdict and destroy any military unit launching attacks from the rogue periphery state. The Duchy of Tamarind-Abby welcomes the addition of the ancient Battle-cruiser to their nation showering the crew with gifts at almost every port despite its Lyran origin.
Trade Agreement
Nova Cat Embassy, Avalon City
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th June 3083
For several years the Nova Cats had been trading older models of vehicles to the Federated Suns and other periphery nations in exchange for natural resources and intelligence reports on various Inner Sphere nations and the Clan Factions. In an extension of the deal the Nova Cats agree to continue to supply the AFFS with at least two hundred Clan tech vehicles a year in exchange for natural resources, all the technology traded in this deal are 3050-era tech as before with the Nova Cats ensuring none of the new and experimental tech developed in recent years is included.
While most of the Technology and units are sent to line AFFS units samples of the are also sent to the NAIS and all major AFFS suppliers for study and possible reproduction.
Azami Brotherhood High Council
Algedi, Azemi Brotherhood
Draconis Combine
20th June 3083
Following the failure of the DCMS to act in response to the asteroid strike against Algedi the Azami declare themselves independent from the Draconis Combine taking with them the worlds of Algedi, Rukbat, Shitana, Danih and Alebit they set themselves up as an independent nation. The Arkab Legions support this by refusing all commands from Regional bases. To reinforce this claim they send word to Benjamin, Dieron, New Samarkand, Terra and Defiance informing the Draconis Combine and the Star League Defence Force of the birth of this new nation.
With continued troubles in rebuilding their government the Draconis Combine does nothing in regards to the claim while the SLDF issue a strict "No comment" answer when asked by the press. On the Azami worlds they begin planetary drafts intending on reinforcing the current and building more Arkab Legions.
Planetfall
Astrokaszy,
Periphery
22nd June 3083
After fleeing Hope in the Nova Cats Den renegade elements of the Brotherhood Cluster, renamed the Brotherhood Randis after the original unit before it was taken by the Nova Cats, land on Astrokaszy under the leadership of Knight Amy Frews, daughter of a previous Grand Knight. The unit made up of fifteen battered Clan and Star League quality Mechs, ten Nighthawk XIX Power Armour troopers and five Trojan ProtoMechs lands outside a small southern region town. Quickly overwhelming the local pirate defences the Brotherhood of Randis take over the town and set up defences around the area ready to oppose any who were to come into conflict with them.
Tenth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
25th June 3083
The Tenth Star League Games on Solaris VII takes place at the Star League Stadium. The open event sees twenty-four BattleMechs fight in one grand melee. Jade Falcon warrior Yemi takes the crown defeating all challengers in his customized Bane (Kraken) BattleMech. The Mech carrying more experimental technology than most regiments stuns the competition able to take and deal insane amounts of damage from its Rotary Autocannons, Streak Long Range Missiles and Extended Range Lasers.
Clan Nova Cat Mining Operation
Fronc, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
29th June 3083
Through the years Clan Nova Cat had made deals with the Fronc Reaches for their natural resources this resulted in the Nova Cats deploying both civilian and military personnel to the Fronc Reaches. This isolated weak link in the Nova Cats supply chain was the same as every supply chain through history. A trinary of isolated Clansmen and some civilians workers both local and from the Nova Cat’s Den.
Struck in the middle of the night the Nova Cats were hit from close range and multiple angles it quickly became apparent that they were using Capellan made stealth armour. Two SM1 Hover tanks from the second star are able to make it to the Fortress-class DropShip assigned to the unit and pass on information about the attack unfortunately the DropShip is hit by an air strike before it can transmit back to the Nova Cat’s Den with its HPG. None of the Nova Cats make it clear of the battle site with every Nova Cat civilian and all Fronc Reaches civilians assisting them are massacred and left to lay where they fall.
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Clan Nova Cat Mining Operation
Fronc, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
29th June 3083
Through the years Clan Nova Cat had made deals with the Fronc Reaches for their natural resources this resulted in the Nova Cats deploying both civilian and military personnel to the Fronc Reaches. This isolated weak link in the Nova Cats supply chain was the same as every supply chain through history. A trinary of isolated Clansmen and some civilians workers both local and from the Nova Cat’s Den.
Struck in the middle of the night the Nova Cats were hit from close range and multiple angles it quickly became apparent that they were using Capellan made stealth armour. Two SM1 Hover tanks from the second star are able to make it to the Fortress-class DropShip assigned to the unit and pass on information about the attack unfortunately the DropShip is hit by an air strike before it can transmit back to the Nova Cat’s Den with its HPG. None of the Nova Cats make it clear of the battle site with every Nova Cat civilian and all Fronc Reaches civilians assisting them are massacred and left to lay where they fall.
Booking Hall, NAIS
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
2nd July 3083
The NAIS welcome a new celebrity name to their student body Duchess Jaylen Davion, the second child of First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion. As her elder brother Burton had gone to Albion Victor had chosen NAIS for his daughter to keep New Avalon’s two premier schools balanced and happy. Unlike Burton’s arrival at Albion Academy Jaylen arrives with very little fanfair, although like her brother she is accompanied by plenty of Davion Royal Guard Protection officers. These officiers have been ordered to ensure Jaylen is kept completely safe, and be wary of a repeat of the assault on Burton at Albion.
Landing Sequence
Equatorial Island Chain
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
12th July 3083
There is great media attention as the SLS Wasp, SLS Covenant and twenty-five Star League DropShips carrying the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division. Escorted through the atmosphere by Blackwasp AM Robotic Fighters the unit is led by three DropShips one that lands on each of the three islands ceded to the Division.
On board the SLS Wasp Major-General Bannister Cameron faces the media for the first time. He confirms the story of the Second Armoured Cavalry Division and his lineage however he says that his first concern is the welfare of his unit. Commanding-General Archer Christifori confirms that the unit had been given control over three Islands on Liberty and that there is a no-fly zone in place around theses island. He also warns the media and all others that there will be no visitors to the Islands unless the Division welcomes them.
When asked about this reaction to what happened to the rest of the Exiled SLDF which became the Clans and about the Clans view point. Bannister is diplomatic in his answer saying that the troops of the SLDF (in-Exile) experienced harsh conditions that no-one but they could deal with and that the formation of the Clans saved thousands of Civilians who would otherwise have died, he says that although he cannot support the Clan’s manner in which they returned to the Inner Sphere or some of their actions he could understand why they were formed and how they behaved.
Lt. General Edwin Amis Office
Fort Winson, Dieron
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
18th July 3083
It was times like this Edwin Amis hated taking command of the Eridani Light Horse following Ariana Winson’s death during the destruction of Clan Smoke Jaguar in the Clan Homeworlds. He also hated agreeing to allow the Goliath Scorpions to come to Fort Winson. The Goliath Scorpion Seekers were by and large harmless, Clan warriors yes but they were not interested in causing trouble instead more fascinated in the Eridani’s history and their SLDF traditions that had held over since the fall of the SLDF. Now however they had words of a new SLDF “ artifact†and Star Captain Rufus Myers the Goliath Scorpions trinary commander stood in his officer wearing a simple Goliath Scorpion adorned Jumpsuit.
“No Star Captain your unit cannot travel to Liberty, you cannot travel to Liberty alone you can also not fight a trial to win a place with Eridani personnel because quite simply no-one, not SLDF, not civilian not Clan is being allowed on those Islands. The Commanding-General has made it clear there is a no-fly zone over the area and that it will be enforced with lethal force if the Second Armoured Division deems it necessary.â€
“But they are living breathing ancestors of the Clans; they should have been with us but were delayed and now have returned. They answered the Great Father’s call but were denied their place in the Clans.â€
“And in the SLDF Civil War.†Amis reminded Rufus who had explained the history of the Clans in quite detail in the last year or so.
“Yes, but some of them would have had a place in the Clans, they could have changed everything for the Clans. A Cameron among them! We need to talk to them.†Rufus said passionately.
“I cannot allow you to violate a no-fly zone Rufus, I am sorry but orders are orders.â€
“Can we still use the HPG?†Rufus said since their arrival the Scorpion unit had been given unlimited use of the HPG to keep in contact with the Clan Homeworlds.
“Your unit has done nothing to revoke those privileges, I will not stop you.†Amis confirmed knowing that the Clans would soon learn of the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry’s return anyway.
Testing Grounds
Midway System
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
20th July 3083
On a routine test of their transit drives the DCS Vincent Kurita and the DCS Shiro Kurita two under construction Omi Kurita-class Carriers were tasked with travelling the length of the Midway Shipyards then returning to their original positions.
Onboard the two huge vessels however things were not completely going to plan the skeleton engineering crews had been incapacitated by commando marine troopers wearing full body DEST styled Sneak Suits.
Instead of turning once the ships were clear of the shipyards in open space both star ships lit their K-F Drives and jumped clear of the system without a single communication towards the shipyards for all intensive purposes the vessels were gone. A bitter blow to the DCMS Admiralty.
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Archon’s Throne Room
The Triad, Thakad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
5th August 3083
The brisk footsteps of a pair of combat boots at marching pace could be heard echoing through the huge building that housed the Archon’s throne room. Peter knew of his guest’s arrival far beyond seeing him. Soon Khan Phelan Kell, leader of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) marched into the room stopping a respectful distance from Peter’s chair.
“Khan Kell, welcome to Tharkad, how can I help the Wolf Clan today?†Peter said greeting the Clan leader, his cousin.
“Thank you Archon Steiner.†Phelan said formally “I wish to propose an extension of the Arc Royal Accords signed by Clan Wolf and by you representing the Lyran Commonwealth.â€
“An extension?†Peter asked confused the Arc-Royal Accords already gave the Exiled Wolf faction free travel throughout the Commonwealth and complete military autonomy within the nation.
“Aff, perhaps you are aware Lupis Major, the space station we brought with us from Clan space can produce any type of armour we need from an Elemental Battle Armour suit to the Werewolf.†He said naming the Exiled Wolf Clan’s McKenna-class Battleship flagship. “We are able to produce Clan weapons and other materials thanks to factories we claimed from Clan Ghost Bear in 3060.†Peter nodded he was aware of the Wolf raid against one of the Ghost Bear “Arks†during the Bear transit from Clan space to the Inner Sphere. “However our position on the Jade Falcon border has resulted in damage we cannot full repair ourselves, weapons that need removed before repairs or replacement, engine parts etc.â€
“I’m sure that Alarion Shipyards could accommodate your ships.†Peter said knowing that seeing the insides of a McKenna or a Black Lion could not hurt future Lyran Commonwealth WarShip designs.
“Neg, we can maintain our own ships we just need the facilities.â€
“Alarion is our primary shipyards; unfortunately the Commonwealth has no other shipyard facilities capable of WarShip maintenance.†Peter said quietly, not entirely a lie or a whole truth.
“Not entirely true Archon†Phelan said coyly “my watch operatives have informed me that there are facilities within the Ruins of Gabriel that have…â€
“Stop there Kell!†Peter said standing up stepping towards Kell behind him one of the two Hauptmann Assault OmniMechs tracked the Archon’s movements if Phelan had moved to attack. Unfortunately if it fired Peter would have more than likely died too as the blast radius of Assault Mech’s weapons would more than likely have destroyed the room. “That facility is still under lock and key, has been for nearly ten years. It hasn’t been decided what to do with Gabriel, or the other Clans reaction to it.â€
“I believe they wouldn’t care much for it, the facilities are too deep within the Lyran realm for them to be able to secure and hold before you, my Clan Wolf or the Star League could reinforce and counter attack.â€
“So what of it, there is a habitat built into an asteroid but little else.â€
“We are willing to help renovate the Star League facilities there, making all the habitat available for use, we are willing to assist in the construction of the shipyard facility, maintain it and secure it.â€
“How your Clan isn’t exactly brimming with resources? The reason you are here after all.â€
“Aff, we can provide security. I am willing to assign the Full Moon, our Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, as a base of operations for the construction crews and to hold resources. I will also provide a trinary of aerospace fighters for area defence.â€
“You would do this in exchange for?†Peter asked looking for the cost.
“Once Gabriel is renovated Clan Wolf gain an entire construction slip for ourselves, we can use it to maintain our units and possibly look at further ships.â€
“So the Wolf Clan can rebuild its strength.†Peter pondered the Wolves were his allies but too much strength could be dangerous. “I don’t think an extension of the Arc-Royal Accords will cover this agreement if we made it.†Peter stated, they simply didn’t cover anything like this “instead perhaps the Wolf Accords, a new agreement for a new future for us all?â€
“Well bargained and done†Phelan said extending his hand Peter extended his own meeting Phelan In a firm handshake “seyla†Phelan muttered quietly. He was too Inner Sphere to be truly Clan, but too changed by the Clans to ever be truly an Inner Sphere citizen again.
Reprisal Strikes
Algedi, Azami Brotherhood
Draconis Combine
8th August 3083
With Luthien secured DCMS units turn their eyes towards the Azami Brotherhood’s rebellious worlds. The Azami Brotherhood leadership feels betrayed by the DCMS following the devastation on Algedi and refuse aid from the DCMS or to return to the Combine fold. With no further discussion on the matter Warlord Minoru Kurita orders the Dieron Warlord to breach the Brotherhood’s territory. The order alone leads to the world of Arkab experiencing further unrest.
August 10th the Eighth Dieron Regulars, Third Sword of Light, First Amphigean Light Assault, Seventh Ghost and the Sixteenth Legion of Vega Regiments all hit the Arkab formations on the Azami Brotherhood worlds engaging the four Arkab Regiments almost at the same time.
On the 14th August Warlord Minoru Kurita personally lead the Third Genyosha Regiment to Arkab he experiences no resistance at all as he speaks with local leaders within an hour the world leaders agree to return to Draconis Combine rule without further trouble.
On the 18th August the Third Sword of Light Regiment was confirmed destroyed on Algedi the Second Arkab Legion still at full strength. Dieron releases the DCS Draconis Drift, a Kyushu-class Frigate, and the Third An Ting Legion Regiment to act on the planet moving from their reserve status in the system. Dropping directly through the atmosphere the Arkab landing in the middle of the capital city, almost immediately the An Ting Legion Mechs come under fire from civilians and Arkab Legion forces, as the An Ting Legion fight close quarters over half of the city is ablaze in hours however the Arkab units continuously move into civilian areas and are supported by the population. The An Ting Legion’s commander Erik Schmidtt is killed by a sniper aerospace commander Randi Olsen takes command calling in air strikes and orbital strikes across the city, not experienced in ground combat or landmarks Randi’s strikes destroy almost the whole city however strikes continue from an elusive mobile enemy. Unable to counter this Olsen orders all his ground forces to retreat from the city and orders the DCS Draconis Drift to glass the city behind his retreating people. In a bombardment that continues for nearly ten hours the entire capital city of Algedi is wiped off the face of the planet taking with it 90% of the civilian population and the Second Arkab Legion. With this shocking defeat the fighting dies down on Algedi almost completely, the population unable to comprehend further resistance. Across the Inner Sphere reactions to these actions vary from revulsion to neglect.
With Algedi pacified the resistance on Rukbat ends, the Fourth Arkab Legion have been destroyed by forces loyal to the Draconis Combine leadership. Within hours of this announcement the Seventh Arkab Legion surrender to DCMS guns on Shitina, the regiment is given one hour to disarm and leave their firebase. When the hour elapses infantry and Battle Armour forces storm into the base finding nearly two Battalions of the Seventh Arkab Legion laying dead each member committing seppeku, ritual suicide.
With all other resistance on Alebit the remaining Arkab Legion regiment, the Sixth, surrenders without another shot fired on the 25th August, unwilling to resist further. The Arkab forces are taken as common criminals and imprisoned across the Draconis Combine. The surrender of the Sixth Arkab Legion ended the Azami Brotherhood’s nation brining the rebellious state under control.
As a final twist to the fate of the Azami on the Third An Ting Regiment based on Algedi trying to help the world recover from the asteroid strike and the orbital bombardment are found by DEST and ISF operatives dead within their bases across the globe each man and woman’s head has been removed with a single blow their bodies displayed in the middle of their bases with no sign of their destroyers. Following the unrest command of the Algedi Prefecture is passed to Alya with the entire Prefecture renamed after its new capital. Alya another Azami world did not join the Brotherhood and is seen by the Draconis Combine as maintaining the balance within the Azami/Draconis Combine relationship.
Royal Hospital
Forbidden City, Liao
Liao Commonality, Capellan Confederation
21st August 3083
Behind closed doors within the Forbidden Palace Chancellor Naomi Centrella gives birth to Aleisha Centrella, named for the architect of the Ares Conventions. On presenting the child as a legitimate heir to her she claims she was artificially inseminated by cells from her deceased husband Sun-Tzu Liao. However anyone who sees the baby sees no Liao ancestry at all however none are willing to say this publicly.
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Clan Grand Council Chambers
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
5th September 3083
The Clan Council Chamber was a buzz with noise as the Khans and saKhans of each Clan entered and took their place in total there were twenty-six men and women the respective leaders of the thirteen remaining Clans. For once even the Khans of all the Invading Clans were in Clan space, they were all together for perhaps the first time in twenty years but today was special. Grand Council Loremaster Dagmar Lahiri of Clan Star Adder brought the council to his attention with two taps to his podium “We have been brought together today by Clan Goliath Scorpion’s Khan, Ariel Suvorov, who has information we should all be aware of and act according to. Khan Suvorov, you have the floor.†He said sitting down the Goliath Scorpion Khan rose from her chair.
“My fellow Khans, we bring you information from the Inner Sphere.†She said smiling lightly few of them knew of her seekers within the Inner Sphere “a few months ago a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser appeared in the Davion Outback Region, this vessel was adorned with the insignia of the Star League Defence Force.†She said there was a murmur around the room some had heard the rumour some had not. “A group of my Seekers have confirmed this unit is one of the Great Father’s Star League Defence Force crewed by individuals from that era.†She could see absolute shock around the room, “these individuals were to join the Exodus however a failure in their jump drive lost them to reality until now. They have approached and have agreed to join the newly formed Star League in the Inner Sphere.â€
“They belong with us.†Khan Brett Andrews of Clan Steel Viper said
“They have chosen otherwise they are now our enemy. Why is this relevant to us at all? We now have another enemy, little new the Inner Sphere is still ours for the taking.†Khan Nathan Feltladral of Clan Wolf said not bothering to even rise.
“I agree†Khan Marthe Pryde of Clan Jade Falcon said, “I do not understand what was so important to call us here to council…†She said allowing her voice to trail off, she was the oldest of the Khans at seventy-three years but she still had huge influence among her fellow Khans.
“It is relevant to us all because these people are led by a Cameron a direct descendant of Lieutenant General Nicholas Cameron, a hero of the Reunification War. He was destined to join us; we are missing of his blood, our direct link to the Star League of old.â€
“Khan Suvorov, do not take this wrongly but we are all links to the Star League Defence Force, the Clans are the direct link to the Star League. What you say of this unit could be the same as any of our Clankin or even the Eridani Light Horse Brigade.†Khan Canin Rosse of Clan Nova Cat said “we are all links to the Star League. A Cameron or not it lives through us.â€
“Perhaps we each have a different reverence for the original League.†Ariel said quietly
“We do indeed†Dagmar Lahiri said “this information will affect us all in different ways I thank the Khan of Goliath Scorpion for this information.†He said acknowledging the Khan “without further business this Council is adjourned.â€
Nova Cat Territory
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
11th September 3083
Days after the Grand Council meeting Clan Star Adder Clusters pushed onto Barcella the holding of Clan Nova Cat in the Homeworlds, declaring a series of Trials of Possession. Clan Nova Cat met them at each losing two of the initial four trials losing twenty percent of the planet. Star Captain Grayson of the 450th Assault Cluster won his initial trial protecting the Nova Cat’s ownership over an OmniMech factory however almost immediately Star Adder units broke the trial engaging in open combat. Grayson and his unit immediately continued the fight continuing their defence beyond the death of their leader Star Colonel Franklin Drummond. Claiming temporary lead over the Cluster Grayson led counter attack after counter attack even after his OmniMech had been destroyed from under him. Claiming a Star Adder Blood Asp as his own Canin’s 450th Assault Cluster was able to push through to Star Colonel Elson West’s 449th Assault Cluster. The two elite units together soon made short work of several Star Adder units.
By September 19th Clan Nova Cat reassert full control over Barcella two Star Adder Clusters the 362nd Adder Sentinels and the 428th Adder Sentinels both of the Star Adder’s Tau Galaxy lie destroyed. A day after Star Colonel Elson West supports Star Captain Grayson as he fights for and wins command over the 450th Assault Cluster and the rank of Star Colonel.
SLDF Firebase
Abby, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Former Free Worlds League
14th September 3083
With continued Marian Hegemony raids the SLDF deploy the Fourth Sirian Lancers Brigade to Abby to protect their new firebase. On the planet former First Lord Captain-General Jeremy Brett presents the former Free Worlds League Sirian Lancers Regiment with an entire Regiment’s worth of local troops and equipment the First Abby Guard Regiment, newly deputized to the SLDF. Commanding-General Archer Christifori confirms the application of the Regiment to the SLDF and tasks the Fourth Sirian Lancers to begin training these troops.
Supporting actions of the SLDF to strengthen the area the LCAF deploys the First Royal Guards RCT to the Region intending stopping the raids with a show of force. This puts young Leutenant Patrick Allard into his first combat assignment.
Clan Trials
Clan Occupation Zones
20th-26th September 3083
In a series of trials over six days Clan Hell’s Horses claim three Wolf Occupation Zone and one Jade Falcon Occupied world in a series of trials. It begins when the Jade Falcon world of Evciler falls with a one on one battle between two BattleMechs, the Jade Falcons put up resistance but it was half hearted at best and the warrior was defeated.
Spurred on by this success the Hell’s Horses continue onto the Wolf worlds of Vantaa, Ridderkerk and Planting. They find each sparsely populated except for Vantaa which they find a minor training facility and the Sixth Wolf Cavalry Guard Cluster of Omega Galaxy. In a brief trial a Hell’s Horses binary defeat a Wolf Trinary to claim the world.
Trading Post
Filtvelt, Filvelt Coaltion
Periphery
28th September 3083
The Nova Cat trading post was not much to look at nor was it very defensible six prefabricated buildings two placed one above the other to provide a vantage point. Two Mech repair bays set into the wall of one of the buildings provided the means for basic repairs for the Mech star while the vehicles had trampoline tents that protected their engineers from the elements. The Star of Battle Armour had five separate maintenance bays around the base one for each of their points.
In the centre of the trade post there was one large building used as a warehouse and as a trading area for visiting merchants. Star Captain Steven hated the assignment however Star Colonel Bel had pointed out this was the Twelfth Nova Cat Regulars best chance at gaining combat experience and reclaiming its place within Tau Galaxy. Unfortunately so far the assignment had been very quiet, which had caused a couple of discipline problems in itself. Steven was on patrol with his Elemental point around the perimetre the sun beating down on the post. There was some locals in the trade post with Nova Cat merchants making some deal, little of interest to Steven and his men.
“In coming!†Someone shouted over the comm. before a huge explosion wiped out the main guard post “artillery keep your heads down!†Another call came over, Steven had no intention on keeping his head down looking at his sensors he could see a company of enemy Mechs loitering at long range and one big ugly Mech at the rear with two massive cannons over its shoulder, his target.
“This is Star Captain Steven, Battle Trinary on my position, Elementals man the defences, armour plug any gaps.†He ordered as another artillery barrage hit the base Steven could see the first of his Mechs. “MechWarrior Briggs meet me at point alpha.†He said indicating a navigation point for Brigg’s thirty ton Adder.
The OmniMech ran past Steven’s position and his Elemental point launched leaping up onto Briggs OmnIMech. “MechWarrior close on those Mechs, what’s your load out?â€
“Echo Star Captain, all close in†He said accelerating his Mech back up to nearly ninety kilometres an hour from memory Steven knew the Adder carried a group of pulse lasers and two ATM launchers. By Briggs words he assumed that meant High Explosive ammo on the ATMs.
“All Mechs follow MechWarrior Briggs. Elementals meet at point Alpha, we target the rear most Mech.†Steven ordered as more artillery hit the trade post. The Adder closed the distance quickly “Briggs ignore Zellbrigen, they deserve no honour after using artillery on us.†He ordered if the warrior came out of this alive Steven would ensure he was rewarded for this bravery.
“Aye†the MechWarrior said dodging long range fire from the enemy Mechs Steven dug his battle armour’s claw into the hand hold on the Adder ensuring he wouldn’t fly off the OmniMech as it dodged. Briggs cut in his pulse lasers as he ran past the first Mech then volleyed missiles into the next two Mechs taking small hits in return. Steven watched an enemy Wasp wearing what appeared to be Taurian insignia be devoured by high explosive missiles, its cockpit exploding under several hits. Off to the Adder’s right another enemy Mech exploded as it turned to track Briggs Adder and was hit in the back by lasers from more incoming Nova Cat forces.
“Armour released from defence support Mechs.†Steven said making a snap choice there were only ten enemy Mechs left however that was still twice the Nova Cat’s number. The Nova Cat armour force a mix of Joust Battle Tanks, Shoden Tactical Tanks and SM1 Tank Destroyers could be a game changer, when they arrived. Steven turned to his own battle Briggs was still closing on the big enemy Mech his own Adder taking damage all the time “Thank you Briggs†Steven said launching his Elemental suit off the Adder’s shoulder his point mates following moments later.
As they leapt the distance each fired their SRM backpacks ten missiles shot through the sky only for them to be shot out of the sky by the enemy Mech’s head mounted laser defence system. Elemental Mack was smacked out of the air by a swinging left arm stump which smashed his power armour suit into the ground tearing the suit and man to pieces. Steven avoided the swinging arm and landed on the huge Mech’s shoulder firing his laser into one of the huge over shoulder barrels then at the point it connected with the Mech he swung his battle claw at the weapon raking his claw through the barrel before pulling back bending it another way he could see Karen do the same on the other shoulder, neither destroyed the weapons however they were distracting the MechWarrior. The two other Elementals climbed over the huge Mech’s chest, something exploded in the chest spraying Elemental Nichola with what looked like coolant fluid but doing little damage.
Looking around Steven could see more and more Nova Cats arriving in the area cutting down more of the enemy Mechs. Climbing over the shoulder past the shoulder weapons Steven reached the tiny cockpit entrance he wondered how anyone ever got through the door. Firing his laser once at the top then once again at the bottom he reached out and tore the door open. There were three large bangs from inside as his suit’s torso armour was hit by three gauss projectiles from a powerful pistol. One penetrated the armour Steven felt a ping of pain for a moment then it was gone as his body was filled with painkillers. Immediately his suit began to spurt out black HarJel material. Steven wasted no more time firing his laser into the cockpit twice, one of the blasts hit the cockpit window blowing it out showering Steven’s Pointmates with glass but little else important. Three more shots fired at Steven one impacting the others going wide, an explosion rocked the front of the BattleMech as one of Nicholas SRMs tore the cockpit off the front of the BattleMech killing the pilot. Steven jumped clear as the huge pondering Mech fell forward. He could see Nicola and his other remaining point mate also jump clear he was annoyed he hadn’t killed the pilot himself however his point had claimed the kill together which made up the difference.
Around him he could see his forces were destroying the rest of the enemy company they’d lost two Elementals, one Mech and one SM1 Tank Destroyer in the battle looking back at his trade post Steven could see three buildings on fire another flattened perhaps a dozen or more casualties in total. “Elementals get out here, search the battle site, find evidence we need to know who attacked us.†He ordered. Looking around he saw Briggs Adder laying on the ground ablaze its cockpit caved in, whoever had conducted this attack would pay.
Six hours later they’d identified three Mechs all carrying Taurian Concordat insignia of the Taurian Nomads Regiment and one Mech, the large design that Steven had engaged carried Capellan Confederation markings marking its construction inside the Inner Sphere.
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Field Posting
New St Andrews
Bolan Province, Lyran Commonwealth
10th October 3083
The First Royal Guards RCT is hit by a mysterious virus which effectively disabled the entire BattleMech Regiment and vast amounts of the infantry and support personnel. The unit is combat ineffective for more than a month.
Medical teams sent to the world to assist the unit believe a biological agent was introduced into their water supply. Although none of the unit die the majority of the unit is unable to complete their duties for many months afterwards. Leutenant Patrick Allard is among some of the most ill personnel. Both LIC and SLIC agents investigate the origin of the biological attack.
Star League Recon in Force
Valerius, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
24th October 3083
Following an intensive investigation on the biological attack on the First Lyran Royal Guards the Fourth Sirian Lancers Brigade launches an assault on the world of Valerius. Recently colonized by the Marian Hegemony the barely habitable world is a military camp used as a POW camp for captured Cirincus Federation fighters, former mercenaries and uncooperative members of the Free Worlds League.
The Sirian forces find elements of the Marian’s Legio IV on the planet which almost immediately attack them attempting to repulse the attack. The Marian troops are hopelessly outgunned by the SLDF troops and quickly beaten. On the planet the SLDF find the POWs being used as slaves by the Marian occupiers of the planet to build a sprawling complex of palaces within the complexes they find evidence of biological weapons storage on the planet. Instead of pulling back from the planet the SLDF troops officially annex the world from the Marians releasing the prisoners held as slaves.
Caesar’s Palace
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
31st October 3083
On learning that SLDF troops have seized control of Valerius and charged the Marian Hegemony with the use of weapons of mass destruction Caesar Katrina Ward realizes she has to act fact to nip this charge before it grows more troublesome. Instead of fighting the SLDF’s control over Valerius she instead releases the world and all its prisoners from Marian Hegemony rule officially allowing the SLDF to remain based on the planet. She claims that rouge commanders of the IV Legio ruled the world and controlled the Biological weapons which had been stored there by the previous Caesar.
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Trade Mission
Itabiana, Sea Fox Space
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
5th November 3083
Over Itabiana in the Draconis Combine the Sea Fox vessel Cyclone appears brining supplies from outside the Inner Sphere. Inner Sphere intelligence sources are sure the Cyclone was formally the ComGuard vessel Vision of Truth recently released to Clan Sea Fox control by the SLDF. The Sea Foxes officially designate the vessel as a Sea Fox-class ArcShip no longer using the previous Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser designation for their largest vessels.
Parliament Buildings
Gillifillians Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
12th November 3083
Following a series of damaging tax rises and little in return from the Lyran Commonwealth Central Government of the former Rim Collection worlds and those of the Lyran worlds of Langhorne, Ormstown and Hinckley break clear from the Lyran Commonwealth declaring their independence and the reformation of the Rim Collection. From the Government buildings President-elect Hunter Flack announces that the First Distant Rim Lancers - Able’s Own have already declared their intention to defend the planet although General Jeremy Able announces that he will be retiring from the LCAF and will not be joining the Rim Collection’s reborn military.
The other three Distant Rim units suffer some deserters from their units who reinforce the Able’s Own Regiment however the majority remain steadfast behind the LCAF. Archon Peter Steiner-Davion announces his intention to travel to the Rim Collection to find the reasons behind this breakaway state’s formation.
Security Patrol
Keystone, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Free Worlds League
1st December 3083
Following reports of a strange looking Tramp-class JumpShip named Lucretia being in the Keystone system the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth deploy the WarShip Marik’s Pride, a Zechitinu II-class Corvette to the system to confirm the sighting. The vessel arrives and discovers the vessel left two days before, from sensor records it appears the vessel was the Lucretia the Interconnectedness Unlimited vessel had not been seen for sixty-one years before and it appeared the secretive vessel still did not want to be seen.
Capellan Investigation
Lopez, Andurien Commonality
Capellan Confederation
30th December 3083
After two weeks of no communications the Capellan Confederation send a JumpShip to Lopez in the Andurien Commonality. From orbit of the planet they discover at least eight craters where asteroids stuck including one on the outskirts of Orton the planetary capital. Flybys over the planet confirm no power signatures and no signs of human survivors with the planets unstable volcanic activity becoming extremely active since the asteroid strikes.
And so ends 3083, I hope you enjoyed
feel free to comment
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3084
Star League Advisory Council
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
10th January 3084
Following the discovery of biological weapons on Valerius by the Sirian Lancers Brigade the SLDF Advisory Council officially announce that the planet will be known as an official Star League Protectorate World forwards. They also announce there will be random stops of ships leaving the Marian Hegemony by SLDF vessels to ensure that further biological weapons are not sent out of the system. Almost everyone reads this as every Marian ship leaving the Hegemony will be stopped if encountered by they SLDF.
Pirate raids
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Free Worlds League
8th February 3084
Within the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby there are several instances of a new type of small craft being detected. Designated the UD-4L Raider the “DropShip†appears to be around one hundred tons and to carry multiple rocket launchers. After making it to the planet the craft deploys a single APC carrying before returning to space.
Over the following week each of the four targeted worlds suffers a series of terrorist/sabotage attacks carried out by conventional infantry supported by an APC. Then in each recorded instance a Gazelle-class Troop DropShip arrives to collect the APC and the supplies captured by the infantry. Tamarind military officials name this new “DropShip†as a pirate craft.
SIS Candice Allard-Liao, Newgrange-class Yardship
St Loris, St Ives Compact
10th February 3084
Hidden within the St Loris system of the St Ives Compact the SIS Candice Allard-Liao, a Newgrange-class Yardship found by Dr David Lear, hung silent in space its engines dead only the station keeping drive keeping the vessel in its hidden area of the system.
On board seven thousand crew and construction engineers begun to construct the first Kai-class Destroyer. Although not designed to act as a construction facility the Yardship was more than capable of carrying the sufficient parts needed for the job and as St Ives lacked Shipyards capable of producing a WarShip the crew would make do. The Kai-class Destroyer was a design based on the Davion III-class Destroyer operated by the AFFS, lacking in the Rotary Autocannons and Screen Launchers used by the Federated Suns vessel the leaders of the St Ives Compact hope the vessel and its sister ships will secure the Capellan Confederation/St Ives border in future years.
Trial of Possession
Quatre Belle, Outworlds Alliance
Periphery
22nd February 3084
Sent by her Khan to secure a new Snow Raven design Star Captain Katrine stood tall within her Griffin IIC7 BattleMech, it was nowhere near as good a Mech as the OmniMech she’d lost to Grayson Nova Cat on Barcella however it was a very solid if battered design. She flicked her communications switch “Star Captain Rachel you are defeated, I claim you as my bondsman and your Mech as my isorla.†She said looking at the ruined but repairable Demos Assault OmniMech, a new Snow Raven design it would easily put her on par with Grayson the next time they encountered each other and her assault Mech would overpower his Huntsman.
“Star Captain Katrine, I surrender this trial and your prize the Scytha XR will be transferred to your command for transport off planet. I will be your bondsman, Nova Cat.†her opponent said Katrine was not sure if she was injured or not but Rachel was certainly defeated. Katrine flicked off the comm. and laughed she relished the next time she met with Grayson Nova Cat, he’d bested her once never again.
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Marik Palace, Marik
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former Free Worlds League
7th March 3084
Rarely wining awards for its beauty the windswept Marik Ancestral Palace was a hive of activity although much of the politics had moved from Marik to Atreus since the formation of the Free Worlds League the world still wielded much influence. Even today when the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth stood alone from its other member states the world was still influential throughout the Free Worlds.
Today the Palace was a hive of activity not because of a great visitor instead for a departure today nine year old Duke Joseph Marik was heading for his first true trip off the world. Heading out alone into the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth on orders of his mother he would travel to the world of Washburn little more than a rest stop for the rest of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth it was also home to the greatest concentration of Mormons in the entire Free Worlds League and Joseph’s mother had enrolled him in school there intent on allowing him to learn wisdom and enlightenment from the religious order the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints a small but influential part of the Christian Faith within the Free Worlds League.
“I still do not understand…†Joseph protested looking at his mother at the entry gantry to his DropShip “I will learn nothing from them that I cannot learn from you.â€
“Unfortunately as much as I would love that to be the case, I have our nation to teach as well as you and I will not sacrifice your education and youth just because my duties call me in opposite directions.†She said kneeling down in front of him “I love you my son however this is a better path for you than the one with me†she said wiping away a tear from her son’s face “you are my son, I expect you to behave yourself and listen to your teachers. Come back to me and your sister and prove my decision correct.†She said wiping her own face clear of tears, unfortunately there was little choice than what she was doing today with her Joseph would be a target from within and outwith the Commonwealth. Giselle had already been targeted twice in her short life, Corrine hoped that sending Joseph to little known Washburn with his bodyguard would hide him from eyes wanting to harm him or her and perhaps give him an education he could use in the future to help Giselle and the greater Commonwealth. She hated herself for sending him away however in the long run it would be for the best. “Now be the man I need you to be, that our nation needs, be a Duke of the Free Worlds League and show all these people you are a Marik and proud of this duty.â€
“I will mother, I will make you proud†he said bringing himself to attention he mimicked a military salute before giving his mother a kiss on the cheek “I love you mother, I will do you proud.†He said stepping back nodding towards his mother before turning heading down the gantry entering his DropShip. Captain-General Corrine Marik remained at the spaceport until the DropShip was ready for take off and watched the vessel fly through the atmosphere and away from her homeworld, she silently hoped her choice was the right one for her young son.
Archer Christifori’s Officer
The Fort, Thorin
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
14th March 3084
“Sir, have you seen this?†Major Katya Christifori said entering her husbands officer within the Fort on Thorin, her official start immediately alerted the Star League Defence Force’s Commanding-General to trouble he glanced over the order.
“It looks like the Department of Communications is expanding its influence.â€
“By rights sir the money spent on that should be spend on the SLDF. The SLDF was reformed as a deterrent against the Clans now they want us to become a construction firm?â€
“Broadening their influence and standing within the Inner Sphere, my presence here is a testament to that as well.†He said Thorin was still officially a Lyran world however day by day more of it was taken over by the SLDF, Archer had already been sounded out by several local officials who were waiting for the day that the world became a Protectorate world. “Gavin Dow was ComStar he no doubt holds education higher than most things, information and knowledge are just as powerful as a gun.â€
“Even if it means less resources for your military.â€
“Yes, I cannot really complain, with the inclusion of the Second Royal Armoured Division, the Second Black Watch coming to full strength and the Second Knights forming.†He paused and smiled briefly "and Katya, it's not my military, I purely serve as it's General."
“Of course sir, but what happened to you can never have enough resources?â€
“Well quality is better than quantity and I think our people are very well trained and equipped. And that I won’t complain about. When the Prefect is complete we will have a heavy Cavalry unit as well.â€
“How far along is its testing?â€
“First prototype is complete so we shall soon see.†Archer said the SLDF was hedging much of its resources on the success of the design and as soon he’d seen the prototype he was confident on its strength. “Let Dow have his schools we have all that we need for now.â€
LCS Yggdrasil (Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser)
Gillifillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
21st March 3084
Within the main meeting room of the LCS Yggdrasil Archon Peter Steiner-Davion stood in front of the gathered press. “Ladies and Gentlemen, my fellow Lyrans, today I have agreed with President Flack Hunter that the Rim Collection will return to be an independent Periphery state. This decision I have not taken to lightly however after speaking to the people of the Rim Collection I can understand where this choice has come from and in many ways I can support it. The Rim Collection will remain a close ally of the Lyran people however change comes in many forms and sometimes making a change is an important time for many people. If the Collection ever sees the need to return to the Lyran fold they will be more than welcome.†Peter said stepping back from the waiting press he hated to lose the worlds of the Rim Collection however he also hated the idea of holding and insignificant territory against their will.
 
Mission: Revenge
Norfolk, Regulan Fiefs
Former Free Worlds League
24th March 3084
As their DropShip approached the planet of Norfolk Brigadier-General Alisande Faulkner entered the Mechbay around her the other eleven MechWarriors, twelve vehicle crews and the assorted infantry that had accompanied her. “We are on final approach to the planet of Norfolk and our target, we believe they are a subsidiary of Free Worlds Industries working under an assumed name and their entire reason for hiring the Wild Geese was to undermine Federated Suns companies and assets which would allow them to buy shares at rock bottom prices.†She explained briefly they had all looked at the information provided and knew the data “they used the Wild Geese to forward there plans now we will use them for target practice. We will land one kilometre inside the Park of Mechs the FWL Militia defending the planet do not patrol inside the park because of cultural and tourism bills.â€
“Can we waste it too?†One of the Mechwarriors asked
“No, the Park of Mechs is of historical and cultural significance to the world of Norfolk and to the general Free Worlds League it still brings millions of visitors each year. We are not here to start another Succession War, if it makes you feel any better it has a couple of famous Federated Suns battles…â€
“But none of ours†one of the infantry said “although I admit the idea of Mechs being as small as us is an appealing concept†he said the Park of Mechs had stone statues of Mechs 1/8th their normal size making them approximately the size of most adults, they were highly detailed and attracted much interest.
“Join the Clans their ProtoMechs are not much bigger than PBIs†Bondsman Tamara said she’d volunteered for this mission despite her non-warrior status, her Mech was in the bay as well, probably Faulkner requiring the Wild Geese’s best equipment.
“They will have a battle of ours†Alisande said cutting the discussion short “after today.†she added with a smile. “Once on the ground we will proceed to the Whyme Weapons Plant, we believe our employers reside in a bunker under the north eastern quarter of the plant. Once our Mechs and armour have secured the outside the DropShip will land and drop off our infantry who will proceed into the facility. Any resistance gets put down, anyone who surrenders we capture and all papers we can recover we do so. We owe the Federated Suns for trusting in us and allowing us to try and make good on our mistakes no mess ups and we all go home.†She said looking at the couple of dozen faces they all knew the stakes “lets get to it. Tamara stay a moment.†She said allowing the others to leave “raise your wrist.†She said Tamara did so. “You have come a long way since Corporal Cooper brought you to us from Clan Nova Cat, now you have another step to take†Alisande said severing the cord “become a Wild Geese and honour Cooper’s memory.†Tamara nodded a tear running down the former Nova Cat’s face Corporal Jasper Cooper had died in a raid on Victoria since his death Tamara’s time with the Wild Geese had been more difficult until Alisande had accepted her as her own Bondsman.
“I will†Tamara vowed “was this always the plan? Why my Mech is here?â€
“There’s no-one else here that can pilot it.†Alisande said smiling looking at the Sphinx “she is a beauty though, now go get ready.†The General said heading for her own Highlander BattleMech.
An hour later the DropShip was burning through the atmosphere turning as it came down towards the surface “Bridge to Wild One.â€
“Go ahead†Alisande said trust something to go wrong already
“We are receiving a call from the planet Priority One, their authentication clears.â€
“Put them through.†She said wondering who even knew the Wild Geese were enroute.
“I repeat this is Romeo-Zero-One-Alpha, Priority One Comm. for Wild One. Authorization 672-Foxtrot-Delta.â€
“Romeo-Zero-One-Alpha from Wild One. Authentication authorized. State business.â€
“We want to join the party orders of Foxtrot-Sierra-Victor-Sierra-Delta.†The voice said naming the initials of the First Prince of the Federated Suns, this mission had just become an official one of the Federated Suns. “You are late, we have been here a week.â€
“JumpShip trouble. Your mission?†Alisande asked checking the comm. was a secure one.
“Support you anyway we can, if you chose to do nothing we stand down, we will not prosecute business your show Wild One.†The trooper confirmed Alisande smiled, the Federated Suns were still supporting them despite recent events.
“Locationâ€
“We’re at two positions alpha team eight thousand metres high aboard a Poseidon Mobile Engineering Platform bravo team heading east past the Park of Mechs aboard a Hector Road Train, twelve souls.†Romeo-Zero-One-Alpha replied although twelve did not sound like much the authorization code that had been given told Alisande that those twelve were members of the AFFS Elite Rabid Fox teams no doubt equipped with the best Battle Armour suit’s the Federated Suns could produce.
“Understood we are broadcasting coordinates for our area of operations do what you can and must. We are going in.â€
“Understood General, we’ll be there.†The voice said signing off
“Six minutes from landing, no contacts at landing zone.†The DropShip commander announced throughout the Fortress-class DropShip.
Nearly ten minutes later the Wild Geese Mechs and Vehicles were on the ground heading for the Whyme Weapons Plant as their DropShip ascended back into the atmosphere staying out of reach by ground forces, it could "hop" around quicker than them by moving into orbit and landing again it would hopefully limit the fire directed at the ship. As the ground forces moved towards their objective they were joined by a Hector Road Train with two trailers attached, this eighty ton vehicle could travel huge distances across rugged terrain, this particular vehicle carried a six man Rabid Fox team each equipped with an Infiltrator III Heavy Battle Armour suit a not so insignificant asset for the Wild Geese's raid.
Thirty minutes later they engaged the defenders at the Thyme Weapons Plant a mixed company of Mech and armour supported by nearly fifty infantry troops. The Wild Geese Mechs quickly overpowered the local defenders allowing the DropShip to come in for a second landing.
"Romeo-Zero-One-Alpha to Wild One, we're inbound." The Rabid Fox commander said Alisande sat in her Mech looking at the screen as six further Infiltrator III Heavy Suits paragliding through the air towards their position firing magshot gauss fire into the back of a twenty-ton Marik Stinger as they glided under black para-foils. The light Mech suddenly losing nearly a ton of armour from its back and legs toppled forward and fell as the Rabid Fox team fired at its front armour and head.
"Nice to have you guys on our side."
"We will go in first create a beachhead - Wild PBI follow us." Romeo-Zero-One-Alpha replied still completely calm as his team detached their para-foils "Sierra-Zero-One-Bravo sit-rep."
"All accounted for." The female leader of the second replied like her counterpart the Rabid Fox commander seemed unfazed by the combat.
"Wild One to Romeo and Sierra Callsigns, We have the perimeter, remember we want leaders of this little group and any information you can capture. We were set up, we want to know who pulls the strings."
"Romeo-Zero-One-Alpha, Wild One, this is why we are here ma'am." The Rabid Fox commander acknowledged as his six man team led the Wild Geese infantry into the bunker. The complex was more extensive than it appeared even from the sophisticated BattleMech sensors of the Wild Geese ground units. Alisande knew this was not her area of expertise and she couldn't do much about what was going on underground despite how confused it sounded she knew the people she had in place were professionals.
"Wild One, Wild Twelve" Tamara called "I have incoming group of Mechs at long range, possibly a cluster I mean Battalion, they appear to have Regulan colours."
"Not militia?"
"Negative, my Mech has the speed and weapons to keep them on edge." Tamara suggested her Sphinx was a Clan built machine and was faster than most Inner Sphere heavy Mechs and far faster than Alisande's own Highlander.
"No risks Tamara, Heavy lance follow Wild Twelve's lead she has the firepower and speed for the encounter." She said she knew Leftenant Nicholas Lockhart was the commander of the lance but she also knew that he'd understand Alisande's reasoning it also gave Tamara a chance to show her worth for the Wild Geese. The four Mechs accelerated forward Tamara's Sphinx and the lance's Falconer powering ahead of the others Alisande could do little more than martial her troops and prepare for the incoming Regulan forces. She moved the Rabid Fox's Hector in front of the Fortress turning it towards the Wild Geese forces at each end making a makeshift wall a not particularly strong one but perhaps it would bring them a salvo or two from the incoming Regulans. All Alisande could do was listen and wait.
"...turn left ninety degrees"
"Watch behind you."
"Tamara, we need to retreat"
"Neg, one moment, Heavy lance fall back by numbers I have rearguard, Wild One confirmed single Battalion BattleMech. Older designs. Regulan colours. We are falling back, light damage two Mechs." She said over the comm.
"That's the final room cleared... Sierra-Zero-One-Bravo All clear repeat all clear. We are evacuating." Another voice announced from the facility.
"Wild One all callsigns PBI and support pulling back to DropShip, Mechs and armour cover fire. Heavy Lance retreat directly to DropShip. Main gun, fire at will full cover fire." Alisande ordered in rapid succession the four Mechs of heavy lance were nearing their location with long range sensors rapidly filling with contacts. Alisande braced herself for heavier combat behind and above her the massive Long Tom III Artillery Cannon housed in the Fortress' nose thundered into action firing several rounds in rapid succession. About a minute later behind the retreating heavy lance the Regulan forces were hit by the first salvo of weapons fire several contacts fell under the fire buying the heavy lance some more room Tamara's Sphinx continued to walk backwards firing its lasers taking damage at most turns but dealing out three times as much in return. Alisande added her own Gauss rifle and Long Range Missiles to Tamara's fire leveling another Regulan Mech.
"Wild One, Romeo-Zero-One-Alpha, infantry and packages secure, my people will hold the entrance." The Rabid Fox commander said Alisande glanced at her sensor display noticing the twelve Infiltrator III Battle Armour suits standing at the entrance of the Fortress.
"Understood heavy lance first, then armour, command will load next."
"Got you covered Ma'am"
"Stop calling me that" she complained with a small smile firing her weapons at another Regulan Mech, Tamara and the other four Mechs of heavy lance were approaching the Hector just as the Fortress' Long Tom fired again keeping the Regulans further back. "Tamara get your Mech inside." Alisande ordered stepping up to the Hector the Clan Mech was badly damaged but Tamara continued to fire her weapons.
"Moving, sir" she said her seventy-five ton Mech seemed to skip over the Hector placing Mech's humanoid hands on the rear trailer and skipping over the low area it was an amazingly fluid movement that almost looked like a human skipping a wall. Moments later an autocannon tore through the rear of the Hector tearing open the rear of the Road Train "surat!" Tamara shouted raising her left arm just ahead of her Mech's arm mounted laser the hand actuator was completely missing torn clear of the BattleMech.
"Forget it Tamara, we need to go, that's an order get inside!" Alisande said returning fire from the Regulans was intensifying. Tamara fired her weapons into the incoming enemy forces reversing her Mech into the Fortress-class DropShip as she continued to fire. "Armour next our job's done we need to get out of here, people no go slow today. Bridge begin launch prep T-minus three minutes." She ordered as Regulan fire tore into the forward section of the Hector, the vehicle exploded in a ball of fire showering Alisande's Mechs with shrapnel.
"Command lance continue firing, hold them back, Long Tom control are you empty?" She asked the Main Gun hadn't fired for a while. "Perimeter guns defensive fire."
"Bridge, Wild One, we could hit you with accidental fire."
"Understood if you don't fire we could be overrun" she said seeing one of her Mechs an Albatross explode from internal missile detonations. "Command lance continuous fire, all call signs retreat Rabids get inside nothing else you can do." She said seeing a Challenger MBT disappear into the DropShip. Overhead the main Long Tom Artillery piece fired again and again.
"Main Gun, Wild One, we're clean and empty." The DropShip's Long Tom gunners replied after firing several more salvos keeping the Regulan force busy.
"Understood store the gun." She said looking around only her Highlander, a Shootist and a Shadow Hawk BattleMech remained "Command Lance inside, I'm last Corporal Thomas you're first, Hernandez you're next."
"General, my Mech is a bodyguard Mech I should be last."
"Negative I'm the heaviest and this hail-mary was my idea, I pay for it." She said firing all her weapons at four targets. The Fortress' own guns were now also firing Thomas' Shadow Hawk disappeared into the DropShip followed by the Shootist leaving only Alisande's Mech. She turned her back on the DropShip and walked backwards slowly taking hits from four direction. "Control, boost off planet as-soon-as-possible."
"Get on board General" a distorted voice said Alisande however was struck by more fire tearing what was left of her Gauss rifle off.
"Not much chance of that..." Alisande whispered as something else hit her forward torso armour the Highlander staggered turning it to the left by the blow. "Control, this is an Omega order leave." She said the Highlander was stuck again this time on the torso destroying her main missile launcher. Behind her there was a rumble, the bridge had followed orders the Omega order as the Fortress began to take off "Go..." She whispered looking at her aft screens the back blast of the engines began to force her Mech forward but Alisande didn't care she typed her personal ID code into the keypad on her left hand side followed by 000X. Alisande didn't even bother to try and control her Mech or fire its weapons she only looked at the rapidly escaping DropShip and smiled "...with my blessing soar." she whispered before the Highlander exploded from its heart, the ninety ton Mech's 270 rated fusion engine let go all containment by her order and exploded in a huge fireball that engulfed almost the entire Regulan force around it. Most of the remains of the Battalion were surrounded in fire, some would survive, some wouldn't, the Wild Geese had their revenge... but was it worth it? Only time would tell, time gained by this mission.
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Phillip Drummond Spaceport
New Barcella, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
5th April 3084
Standing in front of the massive doors of an Overlord C-class DropShip flanked by two Elemental Battle Armour suits Khan Canin Rosse watched the doors open and a small group of individuals walk down towards them "Welcome to New Barcella, Prince Davion." Canin said extending his hand which Burton Davion met in a firm shake.
"Thank you, I bring the First Defiance Training Battalion to your grounds for training and myself as your Liaison." Burton said "this is Major Everett Gray commander of the Battalion."
"Major, welcome to New Barcella."
"Thank you Khan Rosse, our DropShip was not good enough for transport on a Clan vessel?" He asked gruffly their own Overlord-class vessel had been left on Tortuga where they had arrived. The Nova Cats still held the location of New Barcella a close secret.
"Neg, it was not only Nova Cat vessels may land on our world and travel within this system." Canin said equally bluntly
"So we are at your mercy for travel?" Gray asked accusingly
"You were at our mercy the moment you entered our space and will continue to be for the next year..."
"Something we all knew when you were given this chance Major, the Nova Cats caution is acceptable." Prince Davion said
"Aye, Leftenant." The Major said reminding his Prince his military rank. Something Canin Rosse hoped to see more of over the next year. The faster Burton Davion understood his noble blood meant nothing here the better.
"We have barracks ready for your people Major near Alpha Galaxy's primary base outside the capital. Prince Davion, we have an embassy in the city centre alongside the one for the Star League when we are all ready to make that step." Canin said Burton was surprised to hear the Nova Cats had build such a place considering the plans of most Clans to re-establish their own Star League.
"Thank you Khan Rosse, I'm sure we will be very comfortable there. When does the training begin?" Burton asked
"Leftenant Davion, it has already begun." Canin said "lesson number one mind your contractions." The Nova Cat said laughing.
Prometheus (Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser)
Unnamed system, Rasalhague Dominion border
Periphery
12th April 3084
They hung silently in the depths of space orbiting a small sun recharging their KF Engines two mighty vessels of Clan Goliath Scorpion the larger vessel a huge Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser known as Prometheus, escorting it the smaller more compact Lola III-class Destroyer Sagitta between them some fighters flew CAP however for the most part nothing was happening.
In the black there was a single flash of light as an Invader-class JumpShip entered the system, deploying a single Broadsword-class DropShip the vessel carrying Goliath Scorpion colours was allowed to pass through the CAP fighters and dock with the Prometheus. From the DropShip Star Captain Rufus Myers boarded the WarShip "Welcome home to The Eternal Quest Galaxy Star Captain." Galaxy Commander Dean Flam said as Rufus entered the huge vessel.
"Thank you, Galaxy Commander, may I ask why I was recalled?"
"Your Trinary is to be transferred to the newly formed Fourth Seeker Cluster and I thought you would wish to have a say in its leadership, Quiaff?"
"Aff, surely this is not the only reason, Quineg?"
"Neg, the other Clans do not respect our belief the return of the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Cluster is a sign of change. We have come to verify their existence, test their resolve and show the Clans the reborn League is now worthy of support."
"We will be Abjured for such talks." Rufus warned to be thrown out of Clan society could kill a Clan, especially if there was no other home."
"We will seek answers as is our calling, your time with the Eridani Light Horse will be invaluable to us. Do not die in the trials for command."
"I will not, I will however succeed."
Over the course of the next six days Rufus fought the other three Star Captains looking to win command of the Fourth Seeker Cluster. In both simulated Mech and physical battles Rufus defeated all three to become Star Colonel of the newly formed Cluster. Galaxy Commander Dean Flam also announced the Goliath Scorpions had won a trial against Clan Ghost Bear for right of passage for both WarShips and the Galaxy through the Rasalhague Dominion to the system of Toffen right on the edge of the Draconis Combine border.
Near Orbit FSS Intrepid (Fox Block III-class Repair Ship)
Byrant, Capellan March
Federated Suns
18th April 3084
After months of work and study by the NAIS and top SLDF engineers and scientists the FSS Intrepid was involved in a delicate operation with two Behemoth-class DropShips. The two huge DropShips had been specially built to open huge doors that ran the length of the vessels, as the FSS Intrepid approached the first vessel the doors open to reveal half of a Storm Inhibitor. The Storm Inhibitor was a Star League-era technology that during the original Star League had helped lessen the massive storms that raked the world of Byrant. Now with the Star League reborn, the technology recovered and the Federated Suns financing the plan was to re-launch these huge Inhibitors and make Byrant a more pleasant place to live.
As the FSS Intrepid's forward docking arms grabbed the Storm Inhibitor the Behemoth remained perfectly still as the modified Fox-class vessel backed off to reveal half of the two hundred diameter sail. Positioning it several kilometres from any object two small craft keeping it in position the FSS Intrepid approached the second Behemoth and followed the same procedure pulling out the second half of the sail.
With small craft keeping the sails at station keeping positions and orientated the same direction engineers from the FSS Intrepid were able to connect the two halves of the sail through the central spine. Then with the gentlest of movements the sail was nudged into a suitable orbit over Byrant's capital city although the Inhibitor alone would do little plans were in place to build further Inhibitors possibly as many as the original twenty Star League-era.
Steiner Council Rooms
The Triad, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
21st April 3084
"Archon, could you explain how the Lyran nation can go from having the worlds of the Rim Collection as part of its Commonwealth to losing not only those worlds but also three other worlds of the Donegal Province. These worlds have been stolen from our number and you support their breaking away. What is to stop other worlds following suit or even Skye breaking from the Commonwealth."
"Mr Speaker, I supported their decision because the worlds of the Rim Collection still hold independence and Democracy at their heart. These words and ideas have already spread across the Commonwealth due to the expansions of the Rim Regiments. I have no interest in the Lyran nation becoming a second Free Worlds League." He warned the former Marik state had fractured into many small nations now as strong as the whole." Peter warned "by releasing these worlds we quell their voice and reduce their dependency on the rest of our worlds."
"Skye fully supports the Archon, we will not be leaving the Commonwealth as long as our Accords are stood by." Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner the Duke of Skye said "we will stand by you Archon Peter." Many around the table had expected Robert to say the complete opposite had been Skye's tradition.
"I will also stand by the Archon as will the worlds of Alarion" the Duke of the Alarion Province said, quickly the Donegal Duke was being isolated and the Speaker had little else to say.
"This Commonwealth is as strong now as it has ever been. We still have the Clans, an unstable FWL border and the growing Marian Hegemony as potential threats against nation. I am confident in every since Province of the Commonwealth and in every Lyran solider we hold together each and every one of us. The Collection has its own path, we continue on." The Archon said there was little argument, Peter with the assistance of Skye remained completely in control.
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Field Command Base
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Former Free Worlds League
8th May 3084
Following dozens of raids throughout the Lyran Commonwealth, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and the Marian Hegemony the Star League Intelligence Command officially take interest in the UD-4L Raider Special Operations craft being seen throughout the region. The SLIC confirm the UD-4L is not a Marian Hegemony product leading to many believing that there is a secret factory somewhere in the periphery producing them for raider forces. The SLIC task several Battle Armour teams from the SAS Division to multiple Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and Lyran Commonwealth worlds intending on capturing members of the UD-4L Raider teams and closing in on their base planet or on the construction world.
Intelligence Command
Fox's Den, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
13th May 3083
Following the breaking of a new level of Free Worlds League encryption House Davion's analysts, surveillance and espionage unit the MI2 and MI3 were working on a wealth of information until they found references to the discovery of the Lucretia in a FWL system.
House Davion begins investigating their own Lucretia Incident looking over information that was gathered the last time the Lucretia was encountered in the New Syrtis system when it disappeared from the Shipyards there following a K-F Drive failure. House Davion begin to wonder if the secretive vessel intentionally set up the "accident."
Security Patrol
Silver, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Former Free Worlds League
15th May 3084
As his increasingly ill father Jeremy Brett took a more honorary leadership role of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby his son Duke Photon Brett-Marik took the public leadership position although he continued to regard his father to be the leader. With this public role Photon had taken to tours of the Duchy's worlds keeping the public face of security. During one such trip onto the world of Silver while spending some time with the local farmers of one small town the company from the First Tamarind Militia escorting Photon was overwhelmed in a shower of incendiary and inferno missile fire while Photon himself was caught in a building fire and missing presumed lost. The next day further Tamarind Militia forces searched the area but found no sign of survivors as the entire township burned, there was also no sign of Photon Brett-Marik's body.
Military Base
Gillifillian's Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
22nd May 3084
Following the breaking of the Rim Collection from the Lyran Commonwealth the LCAF High Command chose to fold the Distant Rim Lancer units into the Lyran Regulars forming two new units from these three units. From the three folded units however and from the First Distant Rim Lancers which had joined the Rim Collection wholly there were those who did not like these two options and instead ended their links to both nations.
Hearing a call of a new unit forming on Gillifillian's Gold these troops with family owned, salvaged equipment and equipment purchased from the Lyrans the unit formed the reborn Able's Aces a new reinforced Mercenary Battalion. Standing apart from the Able's Own Regiment these Able's Aces stood under the command of Major Karen Able, grand daughter of original Able's Aces commander and now retired General Jerry Able. The unit is almost immediately snapped up for a contract in the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby although far from home it seen as a perfect break from Lyran and Rim Collection politics.
Border Dispute
Denbar, St Ives Compact
23rd May 3084
Capellan Confederation forces raid the St Ives Compact pinning down the Second St Ives Lancers regiment. The battle rages for three days before the St Ives Lancers push the Capellans off the planet following a charge by the Lancers commander Colonel Sao Feng. Following the Capellan withdrawal however Sao Feng is no where to be found on the planet nor is there a sign of a body.
Trials of Possession
Dell, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
28th May 3084
For his first offensive action as a Clan Hell's Horses officer and commander Star Colonel Jake Kabrinski, an Elemental formerly of Clan Ghost Bear, launches an invasion on the Wolf world of Dell. Unlike the Wolf invasion of the world during the initial invasion Jake decided a decisive move against the planetary capital of Cosmopolis. Leading nearly a full trinary of Elementals Jake drops at various points across the capital declaring the world for Clan Hell's Horses. Local Wolf garrison forces scramble to resist the incoming Hell's Horses Elementals however as they turn to face the Elementals in the city BattleMechs enter from behind them hitting the Wolves from behind. The Clan dueling rituals are forgotten almost immediately with both Clan forces ignoring all tenants of combat, multiple units combine fire and buildings become legit targets for both Clans.
After a lengthy battle both Clan forces are heavily damaged with the Hell's Horses winning through. Star Colonel Jake Kabrinski enjoying his position as a conqueror over Clan Wolf looks to further conquests.
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Royal Residence
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Former Free Worlds League
1st June 3084
Entering the family residence of his grandfather Duke Anthony Brett-Marik headed to the main sitting room where his grandfather liked to sit beside the main fire. "Welcome Anthony" Marshal Jeremy Brett said looking up at the young man, Jeremy was two weeks from his one hundred-and-fifth birthday and his health was steadily failing.
"Thank you, grandfather; it is good to see you are well."
"And it is good to see you have practiced your lies." Jeremy said smiling "Anthony please sit down." Jeremy said the young man took a seat "since your father was lost to us" Jeremy said quietly Photon Brett-Marik was still listed as missing but many thought he was dead. "Reginald has again refused to take his place as heir, neither I or your grandmother are in a fit state to continue to lead our nation."
"Sir, you can't mean?"
"I do." Jeremy said "as of today Anthony I am officially naming you as mine and as your grandmother's successors. You will lead the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby for now and until the day you die."
"Sir, I... don't know what to say."
"Anthony you are your father's son, you will do us all well." Jeremy said confidently smiling the old man still had his pride and his determination which had served the Free Worlds League and later the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby so well.
Family Quarter
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
8th June 3084
As he entered the room Duke Kitsune Kurita felt strange rarely had he been welcomed into the Imperial Palace either on Luthien or New Samarkand. "Welcome Kitsune-sama" Minoru Kurita said smiling looking at his nephew. "I hear you had quite a fanfare when you arrived."
"Aye, there is quite a following for you."
"Most see me as Theodore reborn."
"If only they knew" Minoru said few knew his true birthright most thought he was an illegitimate son of Minoru or of Hohiro however his true heritage was far more complex. During the Clan War Minoru's sister Omi and Victor Steiner-Davion had been close friends by the consent of their parents, great enemies a generation before, Theodore Kurita and Hanse Davion. The two had been far closer than perhaps common sense had ever suggested and Kitsune had been conceived just before Victor left to pursue Clan Smoke Jaguar to their homeworld when he had returned home over a year later both he and Omi had agreed their relationship could not continue with his position as leader of the Federated Suns, Omi had however refused to inform him of her pregnancy and Hohiro Kurita had agreed to keep the birth a secret. Kitsune had been cared for by close friends of the Kurita family always watched Kitsune's Kurita name had only been revealed a month before at his twenty-first birthday.
"I have already been approached by those who think I would be better placed than Vincent for leadership." He said seeing Minoru's reaction "I have already said my support remains with Vincent and yourself." Kitsune assured his uncle.
"Your mother would be very proud." Minoru answered honestly, he knew that Omi would have been happy with her son's development whatever he had done.
"Thank you uncle."
Vehicle Proving Grounds
New Haiti, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
12th June 3084
Debuting a the BE700 Joust Main Battle Tank Clan Nova Cat gain a capable medium tank for use in cavalry operations and in city fighting with its decent speed, capable main weapons of an Extended-Range Large Laser and an Advanced Tactical Missile Launcher and multiple machine guns. Unlike other newly built Nova Cat vehicles the Nova Cats also produce a “lower tech†version of the Joust named the BE701 although this vehicle still has Clan tech it is a more easily obtained Large Pulse Laser and Long Range Missile Launcher.
Eleventh Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
20th June 3084
“Welcome back to the Eleventh Annual Star League Games here with me your commentator Larry Stewart. Our Games have played out with a few surprises this year and we are down to two Mechs. Most surprising of everything is Emilio Rodriguez piloting a custom Quickdraw. This Mech is a variant by Earthwerks Incorporated and Emilio has surprised his opponents with a variety of customized carried weapons, the last round he eliminated Sara Santos in her Awesome with a carried machine gun and flamer array raising the Awesome’s heat beyond its capacity to return fire.†The commentator said as the two Mechs entered the arena the Quickdraw carried a large auto cannon “it appears that Emilio has gone with a repeat of the first round’s weapon a light autocannon supplementing his Mech’s weapons.â€
Below Emilio’s Quickdraw began to fight with the other Mech a ninety ton Orochi BattleMech. The Orochi’s massive Thunderbolt missiles backed by Streak Short Range Missiles engaged the Quickdraw with Emilio returning fire with a particle cannon, medium lasers and Short Range Missiles. “So far Emilio hasn’t used his autocannon which has surprised many†the commentator said when suddenly the Quickdraw raised its arm bringing its hand held weapon to bear the weapon roared to life not a light autocannon instead a far more deadly Rotary Autocannon, bringing the weapon in line with the Orochi the autocannon was set to fully automatic fire it tore into the Orochi’s right torso tearing into holes in the armour created by the particle cannon. From the Quickdraw’s torso short range missiles struck out blowing more armour away the Orochi’s own Thunderbolt missiles causing little more than armour damage to the Quickdraw. “That cannon is certainly a surprise armament for the Quickdraw its opponent has little in the way of a counter.†The commentator said then “wow!†He shouted in surprise as the Orochi exploded “and there goes the weapons bay, Emilio Rodriguez will be our champion as the opponent’s ammo bays give way. No CASE on that assault Mech is a death sentence†he said as the Orochi rocked and exploded from multiple missiles cooking off its pilot sent high into the sky. “Unfortunately for all of you a short game but a thrilling Game as always. I‘m Larry Stewart see you next time.â€
Grounding Base
New Port Royal, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
28th June 3084
From the massive DropShip a single massive Blood Asp Assault OmniMech stepped from the cargo bay and marched strongly towards the assembled Trinary still painted in Alpha Galaxy colours it would soon be repainted, the Mech stopped just short of the Trinary and the pilot wearing an all black outfit they stopped at the foot of the Mech for several moments before moving towards them. The Trinary’s commander stepped forward and greeted him “I am Star Captain Katrine Nova Cat, this is the Eighth Guard Trinary, Alpha Galaxy we are yours to command.â€
“I thank you Star Captain†Star Colonel Grayson Nova Cat said “Warriors of the Eighth Guard Trinary I welcome you to the 450th Assault Cluster. We have much to learn about each other, and the 450th has much to learn about its new place within Delta Galaxy. We will begin our first exercises this afternoon†Grayson continued looking over Katrine’s shoulder at the waiting ninety ton Demos “yours, Quiaff?†He asked looking at the Star Captain.
“Aff, Star Colonel†she answered formally neither liked each other but they would remain on civil terms at least outwardly.
“A mighty looking designâ€
“Aff Star Colonel†Katrine answered crisply.
“I look forward to its performance.â€
“Aff, Star Captain as I do with your Mech.†She said looking at Grayson’s own Blood Asp “two possibly unique Mechs in our Touman together in one unit.â€
“Aff, it should be interesting Katrine, very interesting.†Grayson thought remembering their last time together in the same command.
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Nice update, only thing is New Samarkand is in the Galedon (later New Samarkand) Military District.
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Nice update, only thing is New Samarkand is in the Galedon (later New Samarkand) Military District.
Nice Catch
Edit bigger mistake it should actually be Midway Military District since Galedon is dead now fixed
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Here's another short bit
First Day
Nagelring, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd July 3084
The first of the new Steiner family to come of age Duchess Jessica Steiner enrols at Nagelring studying a Physics and Literature degree. Despite being two years younger than the majority of her fellow students Jessica quickly proves to be extremely capable and throws herself completely into her studies. By her own choice she takes to living in Student Accommodation at the Nagelring instead of a Steiner family residence. Her down to earth approach immediately wins her favour of many of the lecturers and of the students who begin to see her as “The People’s Duchess†even students of families that are often rivals of House Steiner support Jessica. Watching from afar and through various sources her father Archon Peter Steiner-Davion is very happy with the approach his daughter has taken.
HPG Site
Toffen, Ghost Bear Dominion
8th July 3084
Travelling safely through the Ghost Bear Dominion the Goliath Scorpion’s Chi Galaxy land on Toffen right at the tip of the Dominion. From there using his contacts within the Eridani Light Horse Star Colonel Rufus Myers gains rights for the Goliath Scorpion Galaxy and their attending WarShip to travel to Dieron and land on the world. The SLS Shining Claw, Congress Block II-class Frigate, is allowed to jump into the Ghost Bear Dominion to provide an escort through the Draconis Combine to ensure the Clan unit can move unmolested. The Draconis Combine government and the DCMS allow this transition to be completed unopposed which surprises almost everyone..
 
Negotiations
Thorin, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
14th July 3084
The Star League Defence Force is approached by Clan Sea Fox for possession over the two remaining Intrepid-class Troop Ships that remain as derelicts in the Terra system. The Sea Fox merchants are invited to Thorin to negotiate. Members from each of the Khanates attend meeting with SLDF staff however following several hours of talk the SLDF refuse to hand over the two vessels as they become afraid of the Sea Fox’s Naval Strength.
Capellan Raid
Oriente, Oriente Protectorate
Former Free Worlds League
20th July 3084
The Capellan Confederation launch a heavy strike on Oriete the capital of the Oriente Protectorate shattering the Second Brigade of the Fusiliers of Oriente causing damage to multiple facilities and causing the death of the recently retired Grand Duke Christopher Halas. The Capellans retreat before Oriente defenders can mount a significant counter attack; they also take much of their lost equipment with them.
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Throne Room
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
2nd August 3084
“….And I promise each of you to complete the duties my father and grandfather upheld as Coordinator of the Draconis Combine, thank you.†Newly appointed Coordinator Vincent Kurita said finishing speaking to the people of the nation from the Imperial Palace on New Samarkand. “What do you think uncle?†He asked glancing at Minoru Kurita the man who had sat in the same position just over a day before.
“You did well and now you have to prove you are worthy of the position.â€
“I know, already there are those who say you should have remained as my father’s successor and that I should pass the line of leaders to your line.â€
“Unfortunately for me I have no line.†Minoru said quietly filling in for Hohiro and helping bring Vincent up as his own had stopped much of Minoru’s own personal life. “Now I think a quiet retirement is what is required of me, unless my Coordinator requires more.â€
“I am sorry to say there is.†Vincent said to his father casting his eyes to the floor “with Luthien all but gone to us and our capital moved to New Samarkand, Pesht, Benjamin and Dieron could feel they are neglected. Especially with Midway taking the reins that were dropped by Galedon, many with both Pesht and Benjamin believe Galedon’t worlds should have been split between them instead of Midway being elevated to a seat of power.â€
“They must understand that they could not administer that much territory, already Pesht strains to look after the worlds it has, especially during times of Clan trouble. We need another seat to administer the Snow Raven border.â€
“Hai, I agree with you uncle, which is why I need you to take up office on Pesht as Warlord of the District at least for now. And I need you to oversee the restructuring of the ISF, which I’d also prefer to be on Pesht keeping our places of power spread out should ensure that nothing can take out our nation in one sweep. Show our people why we need all four districts to be strong and why the loss of our capital will not be the end of the Combine.â€
“Duties I would be more than happy to perform, speaking of intelligence, I hear that there are those who say that even I should not be the one to supplant you in their mind another stands.â€
“Kitsune?â€
“Indeed†Minoru said quietly.
“A very popular man, however Omi’s son will not rule our nation it would be bad for all the Inner Sphere if that were the case. I think perhaps we should release parts of his Combine-based heritage, if they understand he is Omi’s son perhaps they will understand he cannot stand, if those continue to promote him then perhaps further measures will be needed.â€
“I hope not.†Minoru answered “releasing details of his heritage will be risky. Everyone knows of her relationship with Victor Davion, should they put that together…â€
“Another bridge we may have to cross uncle, I will not lie to cover your sisters mistakes, not will I have a son of Davion pushed towards being Coordinator of the Combine. This ends on my terms, Kitsune and the Inner Sphere can be damned as far as I care.†Vincent said strongly, despite his remark against his sister Minoru could not feel a little pride, Hohiro’s son was taking up his fathers reins finally showing his true abilities as a leader.
High Court of Justice
Unity City, Terra
Star League Protectorate
13th August 3084
The reasons behind this case confused High Commissioner Judith Elton why it had come here was slightly beyond her “allow me to understand Duke Hasek†she said looking at Nathaniel Hasek, the Federated Suns Field Marshal looked uncomfortable in this environment “The Federated Suns wish to bring damages against Interconnectedness Unlimited and the Steffelbus family which are based off Rosamond within the Federate Suns?â€
“Affirmative.â€
“They are a Federated Suns company you cannot deal with this internally?â€
“The Steffelbus family have denied knowledge of what we speak of since 3022 when a craft under their command known as the Lucretia jumped clear of the New Syrtis shipyards causing heavy damage. We wish to know the location of this vessel and seek financial compensation for the damage and the research data gained when the Lucretia jumped.â€
“We have no knowledge of this, the Lucretia was lost in that experiment which House Davion sponsored.â€
“DMI agents within the Free Worlds League confirmed that the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth dispatched naval units to capture the Lucretia within Free Worlds claimed space less than a year ago. The ship jumped clear of the region.â€
“It was not within our control.â€
“Gentlemen we will abjure for now both of you will have to prove your cases over the coming days.â€
“All rise†one of the court officials shouted as Judith Elton left, the start of what would likely be a long court case.
Isle of Skye Command
Skye, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
20th August 3084
Intent on continuing to strengthen their available forces the Isle of Skye Command of the LCAF form the First Tamar War College Training Battalion as part of the Tamar Cavalier unit, creating a direct feeder unit for Tamar Cavaliers and a rallying point for those from the Tamar Region who have settled within the Isle of Skye and still wish to fight back against the Clans.
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Wolf's Dragoons Encampment
Melissa, Melissa Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
6th September 3084
The Wolf's Dragoons Beta Regiment, under contract with the Lyran Commonwealth, is ambushed on Melissa by Alpha Galaxy of Clan Jade Falcon under the command of Loremaster Bryan Pryde. With the Jade Falcons striking from multiple directions the Dragoons are taken by surprise by the fast moving Clan force. Far from any Lyran Commonwealth or SLDF support the Wolf's Dragoons unit is left to their own devices under heavy fire and stumbling into more and more Clan units the mercenaries have little chance. Instead of retreating further the Dragoons make their last stand causing heavy damage to the Falcon force but ultimately falling to the increasing numbers of Jade Falcons. Surprisingly the Jade Falcons do not remain on the planet instead they leave the destroyed Dragoons on Melissa's soil in pieces not taking a single Dragoon survivor as a bondsman or any pieces of salvage.
Major-General Bannister Cameron's Officer
Second Royal Armoured Cavalry HQ
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
18th September 3084
Sitting at his desk looking at the tri-vid for perhaps the third time Major-General Bannister Cameron shook his head lost in though. "What is it General?" Colonel Andrea Kincaid asked Cameron who had not even heard his aide's entry into the room.
"The Clan wants to see me and our unit."
"Which Clan?" She asked, the Clans were a prickly subject for the Second Armoured they were enroute to join the task force leaving on the Exodus when their accident happened. If the Second Armoured had joined the rest of the SLDF they too would have become members of the Clans or victims of the Exodus Civil War. Every member of the Second Armoured had friends who had left in the Exodus, some were well known others not so, still the question on how the lived or died played on many of the Clan’s thoughts.
"The Goliath Scorpions... one I have not heard of." Cameron admitted of all the members of the unit he was probably least affected by the history of the Exodus and the fate of the SLDF. He already knew his family’s fate at the hands of Amaris and had been cared of so much by the SLDF that he’d been given a Periphery assignment out of the way forgotten. In some ways he was glad he missed the Exodus, although the Clans obviously had a lot more interest in him.
"I have" Kincaid said quietly "they treasure relics of the fallen Star League." She continued "they have no territories in the Inner Sphere however they have taken much interest in the Eridani Light Horse especially the Huntress garrisons."
"So their interest in a meeting with me could be more than just interest?" Cameron wondered
"They could want you, General, a living breathing member of the Cameron living line. You could have an honoured position within the Clans, maybe even your own House." Cameron visibly shivered at the thought his house was long dead, he didn’t plan on resurrecting it with artificial technology in a distant land, if his name was to live on it would be though his actions and his upbringing of offspring. Although he had to admit at forty-two years old he was beginning to wonder if he would ever have children, modern technology made his age largely irrelevant in regards to the biology of things but still didn’t help in the cosmetic changes that came along with age. All he could do was live well, eat healthy and hope someone came along into his life.
"Perhaps not, our position is already strange. We are part of this new Star League given a place within its honoured heart however we are still apart from them. And building a home here on this world, we are unlikely to fight any battle."
"Perhaps a place within a Clan would be more appealing closer to the Kerensky Line?" Kincaid joked
"Negative." Cameron protested "We need to be careful with these Goliath Scorpions, obviously they share something with the Eridani, no we cannot become equally close to them. If we show them, the entire Inner Sphere could turn from us; they have lost too much to these Clans of Kerensky." Cameron said quietly "perhaps a more informal visitation with these Goliath Scorpions." He mused quietly.
Staging Ground
Murphid, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd September 3084
The firebase that staged the Fifteenth Arcturan Guards was not much to look at however it was her first planetary base. Katrina Allard was with a group of new members joining the Fifteenth however she was the highest in rank and position so instead of finding her billings she instead headed for the Colonel's officer knocking on the heavy wooden door she was called into the room. Inside there were two men the first a large middle aged man sitting at the table the second a far smaller man standing off his shoulder with Leutenant insignia.
"Welcome to Murphid Leutenant Allard, I am Colonel Felix Blucher." The Colonel said with a deep voice
"Thank you sir, I am honoured to join such a unit."
"But not so honoured as your brother within the First Royal Guards." The Leutenant said with a small smirk
"The Fifteenth Arcturan is an honoured Regiment with a long history I am happy to join it, Leutenant?"
"Fisk, Luther Fisk of Odessa."
"My aide-de-camp." Blucher said quietly "Leutenant Allard you are very welcome to the unit as is your Mech, a Hauptmann a true Lyran OmniMech within our command is most welcome. Please ensure you are well settled."
"Aye, sir†Katrina said leaving the room
"A political appointee?" Luther asked quietly
"You could speak Fisk" Blucher said smirking perhaps he finally had someone that could replace Fisk as his aide, given time. “You have arrived just in time Leutenant, we are being deployed to Baltazar III, hopefully your arrival will bring good luck to our future.â€
Corporate Offices, Luthien Armour Works (LAW)
New Samarkand, Midway Military District
Draconis Combine
27th September 3084
At a press conference at Luthien Armour Works (LAW) offices on New Samarkand the corporation announces it will be fulfilling contracts and obligations made before the fall of Luthien to an asteroid strike. Although the company holds offices on New Samarkand, Dieron, Pesht and many others throughout the Combine its main complex had been destroyed on Luthien's LAW Island, including more than 70% of its OmniMech production capabilities. The company announces it will be continuing to trade under the LAW name and furthermore debuts a newly designed OmniVehicle, although the company's new found assets are questionable to many within the Draconis Combine officials within the DCMS and ISF remain unconcerned instead immediately making orders for the newly available equipment.
Around the Inner Sphere corporations wonder exactly how LAW have continued production so seamlessly despite the losses incurred on Luthien. They confirm that all LAW have done in recent months is rebuild the armour production facility on Irece, but that does not explain the abundance of OmniMech production that seems to be available to the company.
Backroom Take Away Resturant
Milos, St Ives Compact
29th September 3084
"You think you can do it?"
"My team is capable if you can match our price?" The green armoured Bounty Hunter said wearing a fully sealed suit of Power Armour custom fitted to their body no-one knew if it was a he or a she which all but added to the mystique, it also helped in intimidation especially during contract negotiations.
"Colonel Sao Feng is in possession of several state secrets of the St Ives Compact, we will match any price for their return." The St Ives negotiator promised, the Bounty Hunter noted that he'd said "their return" not "the Colonel's return" obviously what Sao Feng was in possession of was important.
"You know where he is likely to have been taken?"
"Most likely The Crucible." The St Ives man said, the Bounty Hunter had heard of the place but like anyone outside the Capellan's Maskirovika had never seen it or even dreamed of ever going there it was a top secret prison the Capellans maintained within the Sian system and only the worse or most important prisoners were taken there.
"I've heard of such a place but I also know of its significance, an operation against it could cause far worse problems than a simple extraction."
"We have acquired a Combine registered JumpShip, crewed by people from that region, for carrying your vessel to the system it is equipped with a LF battery, we can insert you anywhere in the Sian system and extract you without having to wait for a secondary charge."
"Best laid plans..." The Bounty Hunter said "I'll have to cause more than a little chaos on that station to keep them guessing, spring people you may not want sprung to hide the operation's target. I won't be handing them all to you."
"Nor would we want, consider their ransom your bonus. I'm sure other realms would pay greatly to have their people back or the Capellans would pay to have them returned. And if releasing them to cause more trouble is your pleasure so be it, we can deal with whatever the Capellans handled."
"I'll do it, I have one job left to collect on then we will complete this mission." The Bounty Hunter said agreeing quietly his suit's speakers suddenly a far lower volume than they had been "my team will pull off this operation and I will deliver Sao Feng to you."
"The JumpShip is at the Nadir point, it has been instructed to await your arrival and follow your every order."
"I've heard that before."
"It will happen." The St Ives man promised.
"We'll see, and I'll be back soon." The Bounty Hunter promised without another word he turned and left through the restaurants back door. The St Ives negotiator stood up and turned towards the front of the shop.
"Manuel, your books seem in order, I'll be back in a couple of months for a follow up visit." He said walking through the door trying to act like an over picky restaurant chain owner. "I expect the best, remember that, this should feel like a home to our guests."
"Si Senior." The manager replied in a subdued tone, her was perhaps the only man on the entire world of Milos of Hispanic decent making him unique, if anyone actually knew how truly unique this particular manager was.
"Just remember don't mention any wars, a peaceful business is a productive one."
"Si Senior" the manager replied for a second time even more subdued.
"Good, good my business is done, I'll be off" he said specially pronouncing his words "you know, important people to see, things to do" he said finishing his set up scene for anyone listening.
"Si Senior" the restaurant manager said continuing to play his part, not often was his restaurant used like this but the needs must for the Compact, he would do his duty for its continued survival.
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Negotiations
New Earth, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
11th October 3084
During continued negotiations between Clan Sea Fox and the Star League Defence Force the Sea Fox Clan agree to continue to offer the SLDF a place at purchasing more Clan technology as well as technical support in continuing to maintaining what the SLDF already have. In exchange the SLDF agree to allow the Sea Fox Clan access to the Saratoga and Dortmond two derelict Intrepid-class Troops Cruisers in the Terra system.
Governor's Residence
New Rhodes, Epsilon Indi
Star League Protectorate
21st October 3084
The biggest day of the world of Epsilon Indi in more than two hundred years was upon them, however it was not such a good day for everyone. Charging into the Governor's residence Colonel Karen Hoffman of the local AFFS Militia approached Governor Manu Batiatus who stood beside a female SLDF Colonel. "Colonel, welcome I was just about to contact you." The world's leader said in his heavy Italian ancestral accent, according to rumour his family had originated from the Vatican City in Rome itself on Terra.
"Indeed, Governor surely I should have been made aware that a foreign military unit was on our soil" the Colonel said defensively.
"And I apologies for not doing so." Dustan said quietly "Colonel, how long would it take to load all your DropShips with your equipment and men."
"Governor?" Colonel Hoffman asked confused
"Your entire militia force and equipment how long?" The Governor repeated understanding the Colonel’s confusion.
"Two to three weeks assuming enough transport was available."
"It will be." The SLDF Colonel said quietly which drew a look from Karen Hoffman.
"Governor, please enlighten me are we to operate with the SLDF, a raid perhaps or a training mission?"
"Negative." Manu Batiatus said "Colonel, I will make you aware now Epsilon Indi has decided to withdraw from the Federated Suns." Hoffman swallowed heavily. "Recently you may be aware the Star League has helped improve the world of Defiance, we have a valued Star League history on this world, and it is the population's wish to return to the fold."
"You are betraying the Federated Suns and the blood that has been spend by the AFFS for this world."
"We are reclaiming our birthright, we belong with other Hegemony worlds.†Batiatus said his anger rising slightly at the officer’s unjust words “this world was spoiled by Amaris and by the Succession Lords during their long wars. It is time for a return for this world to peace, and the fold from which it was formed." Manu Batiatus continued.
"As a result of this change your people will be restricted to base when on duty unless cleared by Star League escort. Off duty they may continue as would any normal citizen, you will be afforded one month to remove yourselves and your equipment from Epsilon Indi." The Star League Colonel said "the Star League Defence Force will provide you with transport to any would of your choice."
"The Field Marshal and First Prince will not stand for this expansionism by the Star League; you were formed to support us not to re-establish the Hegemony." Karen Hoffman said pointing accusingly at the SLDF Colonel.
"Unfortunately Colonel not everything we do turns out how we choose." She said quietly "your First Prince has accepted this world's choice, your Field Marshal will also do so unfortunately he has no choice. Your men and women will follow my restrictions or I will imprison your entire unit and impound your equipment. I have the full backing of the Advisory Council, of which the Federated Suns is a member." She reminded Karen.
"I will consult with the Field Marshal. By your leave, Governor?"
"Of course Colonel." Manu Batiatus said "I'm sorry it happened this way." He said however Colonel Karen Hoffman wasn’t listening as she marched out of the room.
Passing-out Ceremony
Oriente, Oriente Protectorate
22nd October 3084
At the oddly named "Passing Out" ceremony on Oriente Duke Christopher Halas aged nineteen years, three hundred-and-twenty-one days old, becomes a member of the Oriente Protectorate military forces and a member of the Ducal Guard despite objections from high ranked members of the Oriente Protectorate leadership and reservations from his mother Sherryl Halas. Unfortunately for Christopher the Ducal Guard have not deployed off Oriente since the break-up of the Free Worlds League.
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Trials of Position
Tortuga Prime, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
4th November 3084
Many things had changed, and many remained the same. None so different was the world of Tortuga Prime and its single city Raven's Roost. After hearing stories of the Pirates of Tortuga and the Tortuga Fusiliers Leftenant Prince Burton Davion had relished a visit to the world during his Diplomatic mission to the Nova Cat's Den however what he had seen had surprised him. Unlike the other worlds of the Nova Cat's Den Tortuga had been allowed to fall to pieces, the first planet the Nova Cats had captured during their assaults in the early 3050s losing both Khans to a determined defence, their replacement Khan West had quickly realized the world would not sustain the Clan and instead had searched for other places to colonize which had resulted in the finding and colonization of New Barcella. While the Nova Cat's capitol world was something on par with New Avalon or any of the other capitals around the Inner Sphere, Tortuga was a mess probably worse than it had ever been in history.
On the planet which had really only ever had a single city, Raven's Roost, only two new facilities had been built and maintained by the Clan personnel on the planet, the Spaceport and the Watch Facility. In the city itself there was an area named the "Green Zone" by the Nova Cats, still inhabited by nearly six thousand civilians many were from a former mercenary unit that had attacked the Nova Cats believing Tortuga still a pirate world others original inhabitants who had refused to relocate while further inhabitants were of the Nova Cat's own criminal nature exiled to the world to try to make a life on the desolate world. Burton had inquired about a visit to the Watch building in the heart of the city, built on the ruins of the old Tortuga Fusiliers base, however he had been refused few non-Watch Nova Cats were even allowed there. According to the Nova Cats the Watch had remained under the Khan's personal direction since his time as a member of the organisation and visits to the facility were highly regulated instead Burton was restricted to the spaceport which was fine by Burton as it was comfortable, air conditioned and perfectly placed for him to observe the true reason for his visit.
Today his cousin Sonja Nova Cat, freeborn daughter of Khan Canin Rosse and Yvonne Nova Cat, faced her first Trial of Position and while the Green Zone was a safe area of Raven's Roost the rest of the city was considered to be an open fire zone. Live fire weapons were used in the area all the time either in weapons tests or in Trials. In effect the Nova Cats had turned the city of Raven's Roost into a massive Urban combat zone similar to some of the pits on Solaris, Burton had been careful not to mention such a thing to the Nova Cats present. The Prince was also surprised to hear that while the city was a live fire zone the Nova Cats did not restrict access to the area, anyone from the green zone could enter and leave as they wished, as long as they didn't mind becoming targets. Burton hadn't understood the Nova Cat logic in this but hadn't inquired further pushing an understanding on the fact would be difficult for anyone beyond the Nova Cats.
Looking at the monitors Burton could see that Sonja's Trial was about to begin. At one side of the city Sonja and another warrior stood while across the city six other Mechs stood, he'd seen plenty of vids in school and on entertainment channels to understand a Clan warrior would face one warrior at a time during a trial, destroying one opponent made them a warrior in the Clan, two a Star Commander, three a Star Captain and the unlikely four kills would be a Star Colonel instant command of a Cluster. From his history lessons Burton knew that the only Clan warrior to achieve four kills was Natasha Kerensky on her return to Clan Wolf while Duke Kai Allard-Liao had gained five kills in the Wolf's Dragoons own trials in 3051 he had used Clan technology against Inner Sphere Mechs of lighter tonnage so Burton wasn't sure of the exact result despite his respect for the former leader of the St Ives Compact. He did know that Kai had soundly beaten his father in that trial and the only reason Victor had received his Dire Wolf OmniMech instead of Kai was because the St Ives warrior had refused it.
Manipulating his console’s controls Burton looked at Sonja's Mech, a seventy ton Summoner OmniMech, the table in front of him activating showing him a rotating wire frame image of the OmniMech it was a non standard configuration the design carrying two Extended Range Lasers in one arm, an Extended Range Particle Cannon in the other all supported by a Targeting Computer for additional accuracy. In the torso a six-launch capable Short Range Missile Launcher and a ten-tube Long Range Missile Launcher resided to support the missiles and hunt for weak points in the armour. He then looked at her opponents a heavy seventy-ton Nova Cat OmniMech, a medium forty-five ton Shadow Cat OmniMech and finally a second medium OmniMech this one fifty tons named the Nova.
Glancing at the other trialist's Mech Burton could see it was a squat Cauldron-Born OmniMech a heavy design like Sonja's but before he could look at its configuration the trial began. Sonja instantly launching her Mech into the air and to the right as the Trial began, as it reached the top of its jump she fired her long range missiles and as her Mech landed they began to pepper her first opponent the Nova. Burton was slightly confused by her choice if it had been him he'd have struck out at the Nova Cat taking out the heaviest first would make for an easier fight but he wasn't a clansman.
Now a target the Nova moved forward covering more ground running than Sonja had in her jump the fifty ton OmniMech could match Sonja's Summoner in movement although she had more weapons and armour. Turning Sonja moved between two buildings coming out onto the same street as the Nova, lifting her Mech's arms she fired both a laser and a particle blast down the street only the particle bolt hit the Nova burning away almost a ton of standard armour off the Nova's left arm. The fifty ton OmniMech returned fire with its own Large Laser and its own missile launcher, twice the size of Sonja's launcher the Nova's twenty long range missiles peppered the OmniMech's entire body however the laser went wide burning the wall of a nearby building. Sonja ran her Mech forward disappearing into another street, the Nova launched into the air on its own Jump Jets firing more missiles and lasers down at Sonja's Mech, under the missile fire Sonja's Mech stumbled slightly Burton focused on her Mech and saw one of the missiles had struck her Mech's head rattling the cockpit. Not the nicest feeling for any MechWarrior especially since the head had the lightest armour on most Mechs.
Recovering Sonja turned and launched her Mech into the air towards her opponent who had just come in to land at the top of her jump she rained down long and short range missiles adding in her medium laser to the mix peppering her opponent with damage. Surprising Burton the Nova held its ground and returned fire with four medium lasers three struck the landing Summoner burning more of its torso armour. Now close together Sonja's larger Mech dodged around the low shouldered Nova the two Mechs exchanging laser, particle cannon and missile fire both Mechs taking damage the Nova taking more damage. Sonja jumped her Mech again, from his display Burton could see it was beginning to get hot in the fifty ton OmniMech few Mechs ran at neutral heat Clan Mechs especially ran warm.
The two Clan Mechs continued to dance around each other for several more moments until a mistake from Sonja's opponent landed her Summoner behind the Nova with weaker armour covering the fifty ton machine's back it stood little chance as Sonja's particle cannon and missiles cored through the armour causing the Mech to stumble and fall forwards. Sonja followed up with two laser blasts to the back of the Nova, the fifty ton OmniMech didn't raise up off the ground defeated, Sonja was now officially a MechWarrior in the Nova Cat Touman.
In the next battle Burton could see that Sonja's fellow candidate warrior had already killed their first opponent and was almost through with killing their second enemy. Sonja's second opponent the Shadow Cat was already moving forward, a gauss rifle supersonic slug fired down the streets towards Sonja's OmniMech, the gauss slug tore through three buildings blowing through several full walls of concrete before embedding itself in the fourth building some sixty metres from Sonja's Mech, given the damage the Summoner had already taken it would likely have taken off the Mech's leg if it had hit. Sonja seemed to realise this and cut right turning her back on the incoming Shadow Cat before jumping one hundred-and-fifty metres away from the Shadow Cat, which already was closing on her at over ninety kilometres per hour, a second gauss slug flew past Sonja's Mech while it was in the air.
Finally Sonja returned fire with her Summoner's particle cannon and long range missile launcher the particle cannon slammed into the Shadow Cat's left shoulder the missiles struck the Mech's left arm and leg. The lighter Mech launched into the air at the top of its jump the pilot fired a gauss slug down at the Summoner striking the left thigh of Sonja's Mech tearing through the armour not a crippling blow but tough enough. Sonja twisted her Mech's torso and fired her short range missile launcher the six missiles flew up meeting the Shadow Cat as it came to land causing damage to the Mech's front and lower legs, she followed up with a particle cannon blast which tore into the grounded Mech. Launching her own Mech into the air Sonja avoided the Shadow Cat's incoming extended-range lasers, her own lasers and particle cannon fired as the Summoner raised the laser struck the already weakened leg shattering the knee joint while the particle blast tore into the upper torso, the blast tore up the torso tearing into the face of the Mech, the cockpit caved in as the blast traveled through the Mech. Even from his booth away from the action Burton could tell the Shadow Cat warrior was dead, the OmniMech fell impotent without its pilot to keep it standing.
"Impressive" Burton remarked watching Sonja's Mech run off in another direction, the Nova Cat tech beside him just grunted an answer. Sonja now held firepower and speed advantage over her opponent however her Mech was very low on armour. Her last opponent the Nova Cat matched her in tonnage and had long reaching weapons she'd have to close quickly to even the score in close. Her opponent unable to see Sonja's Mech visually launched into the air on jump jets, acquiring its target the Nova Cat lashed out with four extended-range lasers, hitting with three they burned what little armour the Summoner had left on its right arm tearing off the particle cannon the Summoner stumbled and fell under the hit and the loss of its limb slamming into the ground causing more damage Burton could see there was still life in the Mech however its long range firepower had been severely compromised.
Rolling her Mech over Sonja used the left arm to help lever the Mech back up onto its feet and began scanning for her enemy however standing up had made her a target once more, as soon as her Summoner stood it was hit by four laser blasts, the Mech staggered and fell under the second barrage this time sprawled on its back. Burton averted his eyes for a moment as the Nova Cat closed on the downed Summoner even as Sonja tried to rise the Nova Cat stepped on the Nova Cat's left arm pinning the heavy Mech down under seventy tons of Mech. For a moment Burton thought the Nova Cat would fire its weapons into the downed Mech however it just stood there looking down at the Summoner, both weapon arms standing ready almost challenging Sonja to engage again. Instead Sonja shut down her Mech in surrender she'd passed her Trial of Position with two kills enough to make her a Star Commander within the Nova Cat Touman, if she survived, as Burton looked at the downed Summoner still pinned by the Nova Cat he wondered if it would fire. Officially a Trial of Position did not have to end with one warrior's death however as Burton was learning among the Clans the official line was not always the factual one. If the pilot fired they would probably face a Trial of Refusal because of the dishonourable way it had ended however Burton had heard of such things happening. Moments passed and the Nova Cat continued to look at the downed Mech, Sonja had remained within the shutdown Mech obviously not taking a chance out of it despite the likely results being the same. The Nova Cat straightened up and stepped off the crushed left arm of the Summoner before walking away from the downed OmniMech, the Trial was over. In the spaceport control booth Burton let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding and could not get over one thought 'the Clans are insane' for once he was glad for Academy end of year exams and simulated weapons.
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The rest of November to start the week, with a special ending to the month
CIC, Wolf Pack (Davion III-class Destroyer)
Zenith Point, Outreach
Star League Protectorate
5th November 3084
With the loss of Beta Regiment to the Jade Falcons the Wolf's Dragoons had retreated to Outreach and been on a heightened state of alert since. Although trade and mercenaries looking for work continued to come to the system the Dragoons were even more careful around visitors than normal. Alert sirens sounded throughout the ship as Captain John Stiles entered the bridge, as the ship was still at a dead stop he floated into the large circular room deep within the Wolf's Pack's hull. "What's going on Commander?" He asked his XO.
"Jump signature detected looks like a WarShip of some sort small Corvette sized probably. We are brining the ship to battle stations, just in case."
"Very well carry on." Stiles ordered pulling himself down to his command chair strapping in "conn, re-orientate us so our bow guns are facing the jump point forward engines push us back a little."
"Aye sir." The control officer responded, the Wolf Pack began to move backwards under its own thrust giving the crew some sense of gravity for a few moments.
"Arriving ship in 30 seconds." The sensor officer said, the time passed surprisingly quickly, there was a flash of light and a vessel appeared.
"Can we identify?"
"Aff, Captain..." the officer answered "...it cannot be." The officer whispered "Captain, it's the FWLS Scorpion." He said identifying the craft, a ship wanted for years following war crimes in the Free Worlds League. "They are communicating with us."
"Answer them." The captain ordered, moments later the main screen was filled by an individual dressed in a Green Power Armour suit. "The Bounty Hunter" Stiles said immediately recognizing the suit.
"As not introductions are needed, I turn to you the FWLS Scorpion intact and with the majority of her crew. Its bounty resides within the Free Worlds League however I believe that if it were to pass into that space this ship would not reach a planet where I could claim bounty. Instead I turn it to the Wolf's Dragoons, the Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission and the Star League. My bounty is an international one; you will pay it into my registered accounts."
"We did not hire this bounty." Stiles answered, the Dragoons did not have the money to match such things that were not in their interest.
"Then you will bear witness to me executing my bounty and claim this wreck" the Bounty Hunter said drawing one of his two Sternsnatch Pistols pointing it at a middle aged man's head he was dressed in Free Worlds League Naval uniform wearing commander insignia. Without hesitation the Bounty Hunter pulled the trigger shooting the man in the head, there was a scream off camera as the body drifted away. "I have fifty-two remaining crew aboard this craft they will all be executed if you do not claim this craft from me and pay its bounty." The Hunter said as a second person was drawn in front of the screen, this time a young female Lieutenant.
"Wait" Stiles commanded glancing to his DropShip control screen "Deploy the Claw and Bite" he said naming both the Wolf Pack's DropShips, have both deploy marines and secure the Scorpion. You" he said looking at the Bounty Hunter "don't kill anyone else before we arrive."
"I will not harm your claim Dragoon." The Bounty Hunter promised, as expected when the Dragoon marines arrived no-one further had been harmed. The Bounty Hunter's own Mule-class DropShip detached shortly after allowing the Dragoons full control over the craft. The Scorpion and her crew would soon be passed over to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth who could deal with them as needed.
News Studios, Interstellar News Network
Ecol City, Thorin
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
8th November 3084
The Tri-vid cameras were active for another addition of Interstellar News on Thorin, transmitted across the Star League worlds and into the Succession states this particular episode would send shockwaves for a time. "Welcome to this edition of Interstellar News with me Lena Tull, today we bring you a special report from Dieron within the Draconis Combine. Home of the Eridani Light Horse and capital of the Dieron Military District few are aware it is also the recent home to a contingent of Clan Goliath Scorpion, recently arrived in the Inner Sphere via the Ghost Bear Dominion this force is thought to be at least a Galaxy in strength has come to study the Eridani Light Horse and make contact with another relic of the ancient Star League, the Second Royal Armoured Division. These Clansmen unlike other Clansmen we have encountered seem to have a fascination with the fallen League more than even with our current growing formation, so far the Draconis Combine has not made comment on these Clansmen however it is surprising that they have allowed this new Clan to land in the Inner Sphere."
Although her words were simple and to the point their implications and the complications caused by them would be far further reaching as word spread within the Draconis Combine it flared anti-Clan sentiments and the anti-Kurita Black Dragons. Unwilling to allow the fire to spread new Coordinator Vincent Kurita ordered that the Goliath Scorpions leave Direon within the week deploying an entire WarShip squadron to the system to escort the Goliath Scorpions out of Kurtia space and into the Federated Suns, it would be Davion's problem.
After Action report, The Crucible
Sian system, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
25th November 3084
As I opened the outer doors the space around the DropShip was lit up with weapons fire, nearly ten minutes ago the DropShip's commander had announced we were in range my Lancemates and the DropShip's own guns had opened fire on the defenders taking them completely by surprise although the damage done was minimal the surprise factor alone was worth it. The last week drifting through the Sian system, pretending to be a piece of space junk, were finally proven at least this way we had no WarShips breathing down our necks.
All around the DropShip five BattleMechs stood blazing weapons, attached to the hull by magnetic tethers they added to my DropShip's own considerable firepower. Fortunately for me few realize just how much I have done to the boat it may look like a perfectly normal Mule but if you believe that then you’re a bigger fool than Sun-Tzu Liao. She mixes together surprise, armour and weapons they do their jobs well.
The Capellan defenders and their "hidden" aerospace fighters from the moon are nice and distracted by the light show, now it's my turn. "Hunting" I whispered as I lit my suits jet back off, unique among the Inner Sphere and Clans some say it is close to a Nighthawk Power Armour suit used by the SLDF of old and recently put back into production. If only they knew the truth about what it is capable of they’d want a regiment of them only two people knew the origins of this suit, and the designer's long dead.
Burning the suit's jet back for thirty seconds gave me enough forward motion to head straight for the station, almost no agility without burning more fuel I was almost like a ballistic missile fortunately the station is exactly that stationary going nowhere. Despite my tiny size it was always possible for someone to see the suit and decide to take a pot shot at it or for one of my lancemates to fire into the safe passage in their firing patterns, mistakes happen. But not this time.
Impact!
Hitting the space station was not nice six thousand tons of space station against half a ton armour suit and human being no way I was winning that fight. Fortunately the suit's armour cushioned the impact keeping my body in one piece battered but not seriously harmed. Crawling across the station I reached an airlock, for all the secrets kept about the Crucible, its location and defences, the Capellans used standard suppliers for the parts they used to construct it. Pulling the external release the airlock vented and swung open allowing access to the station, just like outside the Emergency Doors secured with a standard switch on the inside too.
Inside the station was boring grey walls nothing to write home about there other than the defenders. The Capellans really didn't want a prisoner revolt or trouble on the station an entire Battalion of Marines stationed there not mentioning the station’s eight hundred crew; truthfully they could use the Battle Armour on one of their planets more. My borrowed Jade Falcon built Mauser IIC Assault Rifle is more than at home here in the micro-gravity than my pistols and while the Capellans are restricted in movement my suit's built in magnetic clamps keep me attached to the deck no-one but my one man assault to get in the way.
Blast!
Blast!
Even with the sealed suit dimming the sound there is nothing quite like a pulse laser rifle going off two green streams of pulse laser fire and two dead Capellans literally like shooting fish in a barrel, they have nowhere to run and there is little chance of missing. Unfortunately I had little to no knowledge of where the St Ives Colonel was held and a limited ammo supply so this had to be a fast Opp or I would be in trouble fast. Moving down the corridor my armour was hit by some small arms fire which bounced off it without damage, a suit that can take a direct hit from a short range missile had little to worry about with small arms. Turning and two more Mauser blasts cut down another of the Capellan..
Knowing the Capellans would have some sort of directory I located one of their security desks right in the middle of the deck, a flash grenade from the Mauser's under slung barrel followed by several pulse blasts cut down the six defenders inside the room allowing easy access. For a secure facility the Capellan's computers were relatively easy to hack, again they had counted on the station's location and mystery to protect it, never a good idea. After less than three minutes hooked up to it I'd identified three possible rooms with my target each marked "ST IVES VIP" could the Capellans be more obvious, I'd almost like to thank the jailers. Unfortunately all three were three decks below, I hate lifts always have they work fine until someone tries to turn them into a moving cell - or worse, so that meant access shafts being chased by Capellan marines would be no fun.
A distraction was needed and fast so using some of Dean's slicing programs I tricked the computer into thinking cell one was on fire, first alarms blared out followed by fire suppressant foam fortunately this couldn't activate without releasing the prisoner giving the Capellans a new problem. Great thing about fire, once a computer thinks you have one it's easy to create two or more. Suddenly the entire deck was lit up light a Christmas tree with twenty prisoners breaking out of their cells and suppressant foam activating all over the place, some distractions are really fun to watch prisoners finally finding the chance of freedom, guards panicking under pressure and the carnage that follows, unfortunately I had no time for fun instead ran down the corridor and disappeared into an access ladder.
Moving down decks in the zero gravity was easy and almost completely silent so when I lept out of the shaft the unobservant Capellan guard on level six had almost no chance of resistance twisting quickly his neck gave way under my suit's enhanced strength and the lifeless body drifted away. Moving through the level I easily gunned down three more defenders before repeating my move in another security office. The Capellans when designing this station had decided that one design fits all give the station a universal feel to really unnerve the prisoners make for easy construction and easy design.
As before from the security officer create fire - check, pop doors - check, fire suppressant - check all equaling carnage. Popping all the cell doors except one which I time delayed for twelve seconds. Moving down the corridor I gunned down a guard who was grappling with one of the prisoners, the prisoner not someone I cared about took a laser blast to the side it didn't kill him but left the man in agony and out of my way. Just as I reached the door the time release fire broke out and the door popped open "Sao Feng?" I asked the startled man who simply nodded "your lucky day" I said tossing him an EVA suit. Turning around I gunned down another incoming guard "quickly." Finally we moved back down the corridor into an airlock "done an EVA recently? This won't be like it." I said flipping the emergency release button, the airlock blew outwards sucking us and the air out into space we were on the same side as my entrance point and I could see the DropShip still hanging in space two of my lancemates Mechs were missing either retreated inside for damage or dead. Blasting my thrusters for a second time my suit was propelled through space back towards the DropShip with Sao Feng's EVA suit pulled along. "Home plate, I'm incoming." Was all the chatter I chanced last thing we needed was the Capellans getting clever, tracking me down and trying to shoot me now. The DropShip thrusters fired briefly moving the ship to port slightly lining up with my trajectory some how it always knew where this suit was and vice versa over the years the two pieces of technology had developed an afinity for each other, none of my techs can account for it but they always track each other down through ECM, Stealth you name it you have one you'll find the other, if one needs to link up with the other the course inputs almost on its own never once has it been wrong, the tech wants to fix it keeps saying it will lead us down a rotten path but you know that old saying "if it ain't broke... well I'm sticking by it a while longer. Drifting ballistic through space my suit and the dragged along Sao Feng flew straight into the open hatch I'd left straight into a cargo net which broke the impact to almost nothing. "Aboard and Away" I commanded moments later the DropShip was under power heading back out of the system towards the JumpShip left in dead space outside the system, the WarShip grade ECM suit allowing us to disappear into the system's background radiation and away.
Some jobs are tough, some are fun others you never forget, the Crucible... all three and a little extra on the side.
End Log
VT
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Goliath Scorpion Force
Kentares System
Draconis March, Federated Suns
1st December 3084
Under orders from their Coordinator Draconis Combine Admiralty forces escort the Goliath Scorpions Chi Galaxy out of the Draconis Combine into the Federated Suns, completely surprising the Combine the Goliath Scorpions show no resistance at all to the DCA forces. Leaving the Galaxy and its attached WarShip escort in the Kentares system within the Federated Suns Draconis March the DCA forces make a rapid retreat. Thinking on their feet and realizing their location the Goliath Scorpions ask for and gain access to land on Kentares by Duchess Jennifer Dresari in exchange for some Clan technology. Landing near the Kentares Massacre Memorial the Goliath Scorpions begin to study the monument to one of the great tragedies of the Succession Wars while the Federated Suns attempt to work out what to do with the ejected Clan warriors.
Second Royal Armoured Cavalry HQ
Quantico Island, Liberty
Star League Protectorate
8th December 3084
The work done to the former Star League Marine HQ on Liberty was nothing but outstanding from what Commanding-General Archer Christifori had seen. From what he had been told before the Second Armoured landed here the Buildings on Quantico island were half falling down, relics of a by-gone era with almost no chance of rehabilitation. On arriving on Liberty he could see things were far different from before the SLDF Division had arrived.
Although the sea towers which had long ago been the farthest reach of the Island's defences remained empty the rest of the harbour section had been completely refurbished and now sported dockings for several deep-sea blue-water vessels including an imposing looking Davion-built Rapier-type Destroyer, Archer guessed it was part of the local militia since Liberty was mostly a massive ball of water with tiny islands dotting the surface. Elsewhere in the facility the living accommodations had been completely renovated, the Mechbays rebuilt and in the process of being extended, and engineers of the division had begun to reopen several of the closed off vaults held under the main facility interested to find if anything had been left when he Star League Defence Force pulled out.
"I'm very impressed Major-General."
"Thank you sir" Bannister Cameron answered "we are still a long way from completion, most of our dependents are still stuck aboard their DropShips and none of our Blackwasps are stationed on the ground all are still attached to the Wasp." He said making note to the Commanding-General that the unit still needed the Potemkin-class Troop Ship and their DropShips, he'd heard rumours of the SLDF selling off their large troop carrying ships to one of the Clans for resources, the last thing he wanted done to the Wasp.
"She'll be around for a while General so I wouldn't worry about losing her." Archer said almost reading the mans mind.
"So what brings you to Liberty?"
"Two issues Bannister" Archer said more informally "first is the Goliath Scorpions that were on Dieron."
"Were?"
"Aye, the Draconis Combine ejected them into the Federated Suns about a week ago they are now landed on Kentares." Archer said he could see Bannister understood the importance of that world, good he'd read some of the Inner Sphere's darker recent history. "They have again requested to meet with you. I cannot and will not order you to do so however perhaps it would keep them on their continued peaceful track."
"I can meet with them, sir, however I will do so on my terms. I'll take a Battalion to Kentares and meet with some of their representatives."
"Good"
"And your second reason for visiting?" Bannister asked.
"I'd like to borrow one of your Wayland Mobile Bases." Archer said spying one of the large vehicles as it crossed the forecourt.
"Why?"
"We'd like to produce more of them." Archer explained "during the Succession Wars all Waylands were destroyed as were their production facilities. On Terra Bergan Industries still exists and is possibly in a position to completely reproduce further Waylands, also to ensure enough of these vehicles can be produced I'd like to involve New Earth Trading Company (NETC). They have the production facilities capable of producing enough of these for the SLDF and possibly some export, since they are partly owned by the SLDF we should be able to keep control over the vehicle unless we want to sell them.
"That is doable, if it gives our people a chance to return to Terra we may even be able to get the crew to go with it away from the unit which would likely help in its reproduction." Bannister offered he knew at least one of the Wayland maintenance crews would jump at that chance, and if their family could go too on an extended break it would help the unit settle back into the Inner Sphere. Since leaving their post in the Periphery and landing on modern Liberty Bannister had found that he was more and more a political figure than a military commander, he had to think of his civilian dependents as well as his Division.
"I'm sure that would be appreciated."
"I will have it done, sir." Bannister said despite his family name Archer was beginning to understand Bannister Cameron he was just a man, someone who wanted to fit in, likely the whole reason his unit remained with the SLDF. Perhaps that was how he'd deal with the unit in the future, treat them just like the other units of the SLDF, give them the acceptance they obviously wanted.
"Now how about we have a look at some of those Blackwasps you have? They sound interesting" Archer said quickly changing the topic. Considering the recent work in the Terran system's Kuiper Belt there were other reasons for the Commanding-General's interest in the Drone Aerospace Fighter but no-need to concern the Second Armoured with those troubles yet.
Bandit Raid
Dead Rock, Periphery
14th December 3084
As part of duties in guarding the Nova Cat's Den the Clan had taken on itself to keep the area around their space and the Filtvelt Coalition safe of bandit forces, this allowed the Clan forces to move about a bit and use live fire weapons against enemies two things that kept the warriors happy. Recently larger forces had appeared as part of his assignment with the Nova Cats Leftenant Prince Burton Davion had requested and been granted permission to join one of these missions attached to the 274th Striker Cluster of Tau Galaxy under the command of Star Colonel Jullamon Lossey. The world was a dead rock there was little to say about it however the Nova Cats had chased the pirate force through several hills and a valley cornering them at the far end of a box canyon.
"Pirate force you are cornered and under our guns, surrender now and your deaths will be swift." Jullamon Lossey had broadcast from his Huntsman OmniMech, Burton's own Templar OmniMech was less than one hundred metres from the Star Colonel, a veteran Nova Cat warrior he'd thought on many worlds and from what Burton had seen he was an honourable man.
"Clan warrior, we have one of yours, we will trade you her life our freedom." The pirates replied there was several moments of silence before Lossey replied.
"Pirate we have suffered no losses fighting today."
"Don't lie Clanner we have a Star Colonel McKenna of yours and we'll hold her for long enough to shoot her, you will never get her back."
"McKenna?" Burton whispered the McKenna Bloodname was not a Nova Cat Bloodname, despite there being several WarShip commanders with the name, Burton thought it may be a Snow Raven one.
"Pirate listen very closely we have lost nothing here you have lost much. McKenna is not one of ours; we care nothing for her survival." Lossey challenged, that pushed it for the pirates six enemy Mechs supported by a group of Hovercraft charged from the valley attacking the Nova Cat force. It was in all a slaughter neither Burton nor Lossey were in position to engage however plenty of the 274th were in position and taking full advantage of the pirate's suicide charge.
The battle was over quickly the Mechs and armour fell quickly leaving only infantry forces on Nova Cat scans. Pushing forwards Nova Cat Battle Armour forces pushed into the pirate compound slaughtering what remained of the pirate force. Nearly thirty minutes later the compound was secure and both Burton and Lossey entered the complex to examine what remained, the Nova Cats rarely took salvage from such operations but computer terminals and data sticks were of interest as they could follow the trail to another Bandit base.
Within Star Colonel McKenna remained bound and gagged within the complex, initially the Nova Cats were going to do nothing however Burton moved forward and cut her bonds she was a beautiful woman long dark hair and a small tatoo under her left eye that singled her out, her clothes were in tatters almost not there. "I am Prince Burton Davion, you are safe." He greeted her careful not to use contractions around the various clansmen as he removed his jacket wrapping it around her shoulders.
"Aff, you are safe and a bondsman of Clan Nova Cat." Lossey said
"Neg" Burton said turning on the Nova Cat MechWarrior "you did not defeat her, I understand some of your ways you did not win her in battle."
"Mr Ambassador" Lossey said using Burton's official title among the Nova Cats "you have no authority here; we will do as we need to do Quiaff?" The Star Colonel asked surprised at the Leftenant's challenge
"Negative, as a MechWarrior to another MechWarrior, I challenge you to her bond. I may not have standing within you Clan but I do have a sense of honour and I have standing as a warrior, you will respect me and my challenge." Burton said standing between the Nova Cats and the woman who was slowly bringing herself to her feet.
"And if you do not respect him you will respect me, I am Sterling McKenna of Clan Snow Raven these pirate stavags assaulted the civilian trade ship we were travelling with took me prisoner before I could reach my ship, I was taken without a fight I do not plan on this happening again." The Raven Warrior said regaining some of her strength
"The Ravens and Nova Cats have never been the best of friends neither have we been deadly enemies." Lossey said quietly "with respect towards the courage of my Davion Ambassador I will be willing to allow you to return to Snow Raven held space without further incident." Lossey said nodding towards Burton before turning around and leaving without a further word.
"Davion?" Sterling McKenna asked looking at Burton holding his jacket around her shoulders.
"Burton Davion, Prince of the Federated Suns, I am currently serving as Ambassador with the Nova Cats."
"A fighting Ambassador?" Sterling said quietly "perhaps there is worth in the Federated Suns after all."
"Perhaps" Burton said with a small smile.
"I appreciate your willingness to stand up for me despite not knowing me; perhaps we will speak again some time." Sterling said, the way she said it Burton took it as a promise more than a question. With her release Sterling McKenna was returned to Clan Snow Raven by the Nova Cats who despite being unhappy with Burton Davion’s request but honouring it.
 
Goliath Scorpion Encampment
Kentares, Kentares Perimetre Defence Zone
Draconis March, Federated Suns
21st December 3084
Passing by the Goliath Scorpion WarShips in orbit the First Robinson Rangers RCT land on the world of Kentares to monitor the Clan Goliath Scorpion's Chi Galaxy. The Goliath Scorpion's do not resist the Robinson Rangers landing and go as far to inviting them to a series of challenge trials offering up Mechs, Battle Armour and Fighters as collateral. Without orders to the contrary and seeing the Goliath Scorpions are doing no damage Duke Tarncred Sandoval commander of the First Robinson Rangers and the Draconis March agrees to these tests fighting the Scorpion's Trials which take the units into the new year.
And so ends 3084
I've never posted anything beyond this point before neither in the original bullet point thread or on the old CBT forums before the crash. So from now on everything is new.
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Oooo new and shiny can't wait. :)
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Oooo new and shiny can't wait. :)
Yes, the Future begins here not in 3250 :P
I'll end the week with a new year, a couple of new ships, and a revelation
3085
Starliner One (Sovetskii Soyuz-class WarShip)
Titan Shipyards, Sol System
Star League Protectorate
8th January 3085
Considering the work that had been required, the repairs, refit and additional features it was amazing that the work had been completed on schedule and on budget however Virgin Interstellar Transport's big project was ready for trials. Formerly known as the Blake's Vengeance, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, the newly relaunched vessel had become the first civilianised WarShip in known space almost completely disarmed it now carried every luxury a passenger could want on a space craft. Designed for long range voyages its first mission was to sail around the Sol system, with successful trials would passengers be allowed on board for the ships maiden voyage. Renamed the Starliner One the ship would begin three months of trials and testing within the Sol System and the Star League Protectorate with every safety system tested to breaking point before it took on its first passengers for a trip around the Inner Sphere.
Nero Wolfe, Dante's Detectives
Selasys Inc Corporation, Loyalty shipyards
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
12th January 3085
Completing a year’s corporate security for Selasys Inc Dante's Detectives prepare to leave Loyalty but first collect their modified Tramp-class JumpShip, the Nero Wolfe. Almost rebuilt from the hull up the ship has been fitted with a Compact KF Jump Drive, a Lithum Fusion Battery and a manoeuvring drive capable of 1G acceleration all features normally seen on a WarShip. Combined with the Nero Wolfe's already impressive electronics capabilities these modifications effectively turn the Nero Wolfe into a modern built equivalent to a Bug-Eye Surveillance craft first seen during the Star League period and since lost to history. As the ship does not have any capital weapons, minimal armour and manoeuvring the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth is happy for the vessel to retain its JumpShip status.
As the Dante's Detectives leave Loyalty Selasys Inc. begin to look at producing more such craft with both the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Duchy of Tamarind-Abby making their interest known in the design which Selasys Inc. now intends to market as the Tramp II-class JumpShip. The new craft would have the manoeuvring drives and Compact jump core with an option to have the Lithium Fusion Battery and electronics added as extras.
 
Diplomatic Hall, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
26th January 3085
Although the Federated Suns maintained a peaceful relationship with the Draconis Combine the shared history of the two nations meant it was rare for a member of the Kurita Family to visit New Avalon even on a diplomatic mission. In order to maintain the illusion that both Davion and Kurita were equals to appease both cultures First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had proposed he meet the Kurita representative in the Diplomatic Hall far from any Davion war trophies or the throne. Instead it was a simple room with a pair of tables, private and easy. Victor stood with his long term friend and pro-tem Commander of the Crucis March Field Marshal Galen Cox, both wearing full AFFS Dress uniform which were covered in medals, "he said he wants to speak to me? Why not our diplomats like ever other ambassador? Simple message passed to us." Victor whispered he had great respect for the Kurita family but this kind of visit on heightened his past links to the Draconis Combine’s leading family and alienated him from the Draconis March. Which could have been the entire point of the meeting, still because of the rarety of the case Victor had agreed to the meeting.
"Unknown" Galen said quietly "although it's a member of the family we've never seen before Kitsune Kurita, a cousin or a son of Hohiro I think."
"I've read the Intel brief, a minor member of the family barely willing to be involved in politics and happy for Vincent to lead. I believe he even proposed Minoru remain as Coordinator?" Galen nodded
"Still a Kurita"
"Still a Kurita" Victor repeated as the doors opened in entered a single male of Japanese decent he was quite short, like Victor only a little over 5"6 but what was striking was his hair was far lighter than the traditional Kurita features and had more Caucasian features than Asian, in his late twenties. More mystery Victor thought he looked nothing like Hohiro Kurita, so much for that intel report. "Welcome to New Avalon, Duke Kurita-san" Victor said respectfully bowing in the traditional Kuriata welcome, he’d learned much of the Combine’s way in his early life. Behind him Galen hastely copied the First Prince’s move.
"I thank you for your warm invitation, Prince Victor-san" Duke Kurita said bowing deeper than the First Prince.
"I was told you asked to speak with me that you had a message."
"Hai" the man said "my message was for you and you alone First Prince Davion-san" he said quietly looking at Galen standing nearby.
"Galen, please wait outside." Victor said to his Field Marshal and friend.
"Of course sire, I'll be glad to." He said bowing slightly before stepping backwards before turning and leaving by a door behind Victor.
"Now that we are alone do you bring a message from the Kurita family to me personally?"
"Hai" the man said "I have a message that has waited almost thirty years to be passed to you." Victor remembered thirty years ago very well, the height of the Clan War, Kitsune continued quietly "I grew up by the name of Kitsune Fox to protect my identity... assassination is a real danger for some of us."
"I can understand that, we have all faced such trials, sometimes I think it would be better to have been born to a simpler life." Victor said quietly, the Black Dragon Society was well known against the Kurita family and a danger to all their members not just the Coordinator.
"Hai†Kitsune agreed “but strangely at the same time perhaps not." He said mystically.
"I am sorry Duke Kurita but what has your name got to do with me..."
"Its important because of its significance." Kitsune said "Fox" he repeated the surname quietly "your father was known as The Fox for his cunning and tactics in war. His name was Hanse Davion but the nickname was known just as well if not better."
"Yes it was..." Victor said quietly beginning to realize "your father was not Hohiro Kurita."
"No"
"And your Kurita name comes from your mother not your father."
"Hai" Kitsune confirmed
"Omiko" Victor stated naming his first love Omiko Kurita, killed by an assassin during the Clan War when he was away fighting Clan Smoke Jaguar. They had agreed shortly before hand to end their relationship, should he return they could never have been together not while he remained First Prince of the Federated Suns. Despite the end of the relationship Victor still held her close to his heart. Even Danai, the love of his life knew that Omiko would be with Victor until he died.
"Hai, my mother, and my message that has waited long enough. She needed you to know that she loved you and that there was and could never be another." Kitsune said bowing his head even deeper than before.
"My son" Victor said slightly shocked stepping forward taking him by the shoulders smiling broadly "but why keep this hidden? Why reveal this now?"
"My mother's choice, when I was born she knew I would be a distraction to you and a weapon against both you and against Hohiro. Now that Hohiro's time has passed and that Vincent has succeeded his father, with my uncle's assistance, our line is secured. My heritage will be revealed in due course, however I gained permission from Vincent and my Uncle to tell you privately before such a thing happened." Kitsune said stepping backwards "I want nothing from you, sire, I am proud to call you father however I want no place in this life." He said raising his arms "I am my mother's son, as well as yours. I will not see pain used against you or anyone because of a name and a life that never was."
"My son, you will be no weapon.†Victor promised “the line of succession in the Federated Suns is clear Burton and my other children with Danai have their place, but I will not deny your place either, if your name becomes clear I will not deny it. I am proud of my feelings for your mother just as I am for you, we may not have been together in life but we are forever linked in blood and in our love for your mother. There is always a place and room for you here." Victor said opening his arms.
"I am glad, father" Kitsune said meeting Victor's hug, since the loss of his mother Kitsune had been well cared for never looked down on because of his heritage but he'd never really felt a paternal love. Now having Victor in his life he had a father that was proud to have him in their life which meant more than any throne or position could ever.
Really hope you enjoy
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That las bit was good, Ryuneko
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That las bit was good, Ryuneko
Thanks
I messed up proper month this time
Department of Military Intelligence
Fox’s Den, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
3rd February 3085
Entering the DMI office of the Fox’s Den Colonel Damien Reburn stood to attention as Field Marshal Carver Felsner rose from his chair. “Colonel, welcome to the Fox’s Den.â€
“Thank you sirâ€
“How was your training?â€
“ Grueling.†Damien said quietly “the trainers treated me like a raw recruit.†He said with a small smile “which I requested. It went as I expected.â€
“And by looking at your records you are now fully qualified in the use of all Federated Suns built Battle Armour.â€
“Indeed along with Kage Battle Armour from the Combine, Fa Shih Capellan armour and the Elemental Battle Armour of the Clans.â€
“Very nice and now you are ready to return to the Fourth New Avalon Guards?â€
“That was the plan sir.â€
“What if I could give you a new unit? Specifically built to utilize both Mechs and Battle Armour wherever the situation is required. Your command would answer to me alone; separate from both the Rabid Foxes and the other DMI commands.â€
“It interests me sir but I thought that was the intention of the Fourth New Avalon Guards?â€
“This will be more specialized†Carver said quietly “I’ll have the paperwork drawn up. You will have an office set up within the Fox’s Den and can select your own officer and units.â€
“Thank you sir.†Damien paused “what missions will we be assigned?â€
“Whatever is deemed appropriate.â€
“Yes sirâ€
Clan Goliath Scorpion Encampment
Kentares, Draconis March
Federated Suns
8th February 3085
It felt wrong to Major-General Bannister Cameron not to be walking into the Clan Goliath Scorpion encampment on Kentares without his Division with him. But according to his sources and to the SLIC Agents that had been attached to his command these Clansmen especially were no threat to Bannister. As he entered the encampment he was greeted by Star Colonel Rufus Myers who invites them to remain with the Goliath Scorpions as long as he wishes. Bannister agrees to remain with Chi Galaxy and exchange histories and information.
Lyran Raid
Morningside, Clan Wolf OZ
Inner Sphere
12th February 3085
Recently reinforced by the First Tamar Training Battalion the Tamar Cavaliers launches a raid against Clan Wolf’s captured holdings on Morningside. Fighting against a single cluster of Wolves the Tamar troops distinguish themselves in combat showing their worth in combat before retreating to their DropShips damage done and honour won.
In orbit however they are attacked by a pair of Isegrim Assault DropShips, sub-capital missiles tear into the Tamar forces destroying a pair of DropShips. The newest Clan Wolf (in-Exile) creation in the hands of the Crusader Clan Wolf. With no chance of matching the Clan vessel’s firepower the Tamar forces retreat as quickly as possible. With information for the LCIC and questions to be asked of Clan Wolf (in-Exile).
Drake, Whirlwind-class Destroyer
Outworlds Alliance, Periphery
14th February 3085
The Clan Snow Raven vessel Drake jumped into a new system beyond the Outworlds Alliance claimed space into the Deep Periphery. Under orders from scout out new systems for Snow Raven colonization they were surprised to immediately be confronted by another vessel.
“Full scan of that vessel†the commander ordered
“Design not recognized.†The sensor officer reported “Aerospace fighters!†he warned as smaller craft began to launch.
“Weapons forward Capital Missiles; I’d like to disable it.â€
“Aye, sirâ€
“DropShips launching from inside the ship?†Another sensor operator said quietly sounding confused.
“A system that everyone forgot?†The commander said quietly “communications give me a full system scan.â€
“Aye sir†the officer said as missile launched against the JumpShip disabling it quickly “Commodore, we detect at least a dozen DropShips throughout the system going between three habitats and one moon and the main planet. All designs are unknowns possibly of local manufacture.â€
“Try records from the Reunification War.†He said quietly
“Sir?†The officer said questioningly before nodding after a few moments “one vessel identified as a Drost Iia Infantry Transport. Last reported use by Rim Worlds forces during the Liberation of Terra before the SLDF left the Inner Sphere. Second contact appears to be a Jumbo-class DropShip. Another pre-Reunification war design.†The officer said moments before the sensor console bleeped a warning.
“What in the name of Kerensky?†The officer blurted out, silence followed you could almost hear a pin drop on the bridge of the Snow Raven vessel. The officer slowly realized everyone was looking at him and regained some composure. “Sir, sensors detect the SLS Hood, Dreadnaught-class, in system her IFF is active although the ship appears to be derelict.â€
“Have your sensors checked, the Dreadnaughts were all destroyed or broken down. The Hood like her sisters perished following the end of the Reunification War.â€
“Star Commodore, systems checked out 100%, out there is a relic of the original Star League. The first true combat WarShip.†The ship’s first officer said, the Drake’s commander was almost too speechless to reply.
“Bring us in system, prepare a prize crews for all ships in system we are taking possession of everything here. I want the Hood secured as a prize for Clan Snow Raven.†He finally ordered as the crew went about their duties they continued to be surprised by what was found in the system primitive BattleMechs and vehicles extinct for generations before the original SLDF left the Inner Sphere. It was like this system identified as Wynn’s Roost on maps had fallen completely off the grid and been locked in time. With the cream of the cake being the SLS Hood a true piece of Star League heritage maybe more so than the great McKenna’s Pride in orbit of Stana Mechty.
In the coming weeks the neighbouring systems of Vangburg, Nerum and Renorsal all were identified as surviving systems of the Reunification War fallen off the grid for centuries all had priceless pieces of history on them. The Snow Ravens intent on hiding their new found prize only allowed Snow Raven born personnel in the systems and posted WarShips at all Jump points in each of the systems and in orbit over the worlds.
Star League Shipyards
Terra, Star League Protectorate
20th February 3085
In secret in the Terran system the Star League Defence Force brings online two modified Congress-class Frigates, designated the Republic-class Frigate the two craft formerly ComGuard vessels Hollings York and Cleansing Fire are re-launched as the Republic and Freedom. The reason for the secrecy of this launch is because onboard the two craft is an recovered version of the M-5 Control Computer. Seen originally on Casper drones of the original SLDF’s SDS Defences although nowhere near an operational Casper system it affects improves all targeting and tracking systems, additionally the SLDF engineers experimented with Advanced Robotic Transport (ARTS) Bays for all fighters and small craft intended on cutting down on the required bay craft.
The two ships begin extensive trials in the Terran system around Jupiter keeping them beyond all pressing eyes. After three days of testing it becomes clear that the M-5 components are more trouble than worth without a full M-5 system they are useless and the systems are removed although the ARTS systems prove to be well worth their cost and weight. SLDF Quartermasters begin to explore the idea of using ARTS systems on all WarShips and select DropShips.
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Scouting Mission
12 Light Year from Taurian Concordat
Periphery
2nd March 3085
The cockpit of Sonja Nova Cat's cockpit was warmer than it was outside the mighty seventy ton OmniMech which was a relief to the Nova Cat Star Commander. BattleMech and OmniMech cockpits were always warmer than the outside but this particular world was a special case, one moment it was boiling hot, the next it was cold and unwelcoming. For the last week Sonja's lone Star had conducted recon operations of the world's northern hemisphere and so far the weather was the only thing that made the world stand out, nothing that screamed at making it a world worth colonizing, nothing that ruled it out.
As for Sonja she hated this work, it was luck of the draw her Cluster's Star Colonel had said, coincidence another had said, Sonja wasn't convinced and everyone knew it. A week after her assignment to the unit the 21st Nova Cat Regulars Cluster, a veteran combat unit within the Nova Cat Touman, had received orders to join the New Worlds Program and been assigned to scout new planets for colonization or for potential mining opportunities. Sonja couldn't be absolutely sure but she had bet on some sort of political move by her father to keep her out of trouble on her first true tour of duty. She was the freeborn daughter of the Nova Cat's Khan, anywhere else she would have been target to Trials of Grievance from other Clans and maybe even her own people.
Unfortunately this "protection" had not made her any friends within the 21st Regulars, all of whom blamed her for their assignment, it could have been just their turn to do this but most had vented their frustration against her. Sonja had fought two Circles of Equals since the announcement of the mission, the first she'd broken her opponent's nose the second she'd shattered her opponent's left leg. It was them her Star Colonel had chosen her Star to do solo recon of this backwater, a two week recon, he'd called it her first true independent command something to take pride in, so far she couldn't see it. Finishing her patrol Sonja began to head back towards her unit when her headset began to crackle. "Blade One, Eagle Nest, say again static" she said again static "returning to LZ" she reported accelerating slowly to 80kph closing on her ship's landing zone. The sun was beginning to lower soon it would be dark, fighting in the dark against an unknown enemy would just add to the challenge.
The scene at the landing zone could only be described as chaos, the four Nova Cat Mechs propped up against their Broadsword-class DropShip fighting against nearly a company of enemy Mechs, armour and battle armour. Turning her heavy Mech's torso Sonja opened fire with her arm mounted LB-class autocannon followed by her lasers on the other arm hitting two of the enemy Mechs. She followed with a salvo of long range missiles into a third Mech. Looking at the multiple enemy Mechs Sonja saw the bull insignia of the Taurian Concordat displayed prominently. Walking her Dragon Cat forward Sonja continued to fire her lasers, autocannon and missiles striking multiple targets at once, she was breaking every rule of Clan warfare but it didn't matter this was all about survival.
From the centre of the Taurian line a pair of Awesome assault Mechs stepped forward each raising their triple particle cannons at the Nova Cats, Sonja cut her weapons low into one of the Awesomes knocking the Mech back. Suddenly both Awesomes fired together Sonja braced for the impacts which never came, the beams went high over the Dragon Cat slamming into the Broadsword, Sonja realized what they were doing and targeted both enemy Mechs triggering an Alpha Strike she fired everything the Mech had into both Mechs equally. The Awesomes ignored her fire and fired at the DropShip again, Sonja looked at the monitors the DropShip was taking heavy damage. Firing again and again one of the Awesomes buckled at the knee and fell flat on its face but it was too little too late, another salvo struck the Broadsword breaking through the armour of the DropShip there was a surge of energy and the DropShip exploded, the four Nova Cat Mechs standing against the DropShip were almost completely vapourized, as the shockwave hit Sonja's OmniMech the force of the explosion picked up the Mech like it was a rag-doll.
Flicking all the switches on one side of her Dragon Cat's cockpit she primed the ejector seat in one fluid motion suddenly the entire head section of the Dragon Cat shot into the air flying through the expanding explosion of the Broadsword. The Dragon Cat was an ultra modern OmniMech with the entire head section protecting her body Sonja was safe from the flames however she was not protected from the kinetic force of being thrown around the ballistic cockpit, within moments of the head section leaving the Mech's body Sonja was unconscious knocked, even if she had remained awake there was nothing she could do her Mech was destroyed, her Star gone, her transport obliterated, she was very much alone.
Scouting Mission
12 Light Year from Taurian Concordat
Periphery
3rd March 3085
The morning cold woke Sonja still strapped in her command chair, her head throbbed constantly, and she could see light entering the cockpit from areas that had been smashed by the landing. The sun had just been lowering when the DropShip had been attacked meaning she'd been knocked out for at least eight hours, which so far was the length of this world's night. Pulling herself upright she sat in the chair for a moment, all emergency power and residual heat in the cockpit were gone, likely drained off during the night. It had probably kept her alive when unconscious but limited her options now; she pulled off the neurohelmet and tossed it to the side then unbuckled the harness holding her in the command chair.
Slipping past the command chair she opened the equipment locker built into the back of the chair. Like all Nova Cat Mechs the seat had been modified from the Star League standard operated by most of the Clans behind the chair was a locker with all the survival equipment needed to keep a warrior alive for seven days in the wild. Many of the new Nova Cat Mechs had full head ejection systems of the older Mechs which only ejected the pilot's chair their chassis and cockpits had been modified accordingly. For once Sonja was most grateful to have a Dragon Cat under her, she'd been assigned the Mech because of her father, Canin Rosse, he'd made the design as famous as the Nova Cat OmniMech and it was a very capable design however she'd have preferred something lighter like a Shadow Cat or Huntsman, something with a lower profile and more varied capabilities. The Dragon Cat for all its additional targeting systems and advanced weapons was more a command Mech than anything else which although Sonja did not complain about, was not all she strives to have.
In the locker Sonja found a set of full body camouflage fatigues, combat boots and a utility belt to protect her from the elements, far better than her coolant suit which offered little protection outside the cockpit pulling the fatigues over the coolant suit they'd be a nice extra layer. Additionally there was MRE (Meals-Ready-to-Eat) for a week, a small but powerful torch, a survival knife with a serrated edge which she could use to saw wood for a fire if needed and the prize a Gauss Submachine Gun. One of the reasons for the changes to the cockpit and command chair was the Gauss Submachine Gun, Clan Nova Cat had gained manufacturing rights from Clan Sea Fox and her father had directed that it should be the primary Personal Defence Weapon of Nova Cat warriors. Although designated as a Submachine Gun it was more the size of an assault rifle a boxy weapon with full ambidextrous hand grips, the 30 shot magazines slipped into the top of the weapon's frame while power packs slipped into the stock. A very capable weapon and a far better one than the single laser pistol or combat knife many warriors were left with. She strapped the weapon to the front of her jumpsuit and let it hang there, the straps would hold the weapon in an accessible place but leave her hands free to do other things, she then pulled the utility belt around her and slipped the two extra magazines and power packs into the pockets. Glancing around the cockpit she couldn't see anything else left that was of use and flicked a single control on the back of the command chair before running out the hatch, the cold morning had toughened the ground giving her a solid base for her movements. Running quickly her muscles ached as she moved but there was little else for it, she reached about twenty metres from the cockpit module before the self-destruct charge exploded consuming the last piece of her OmniMech, leaving it intact wasn't an option it would attract anyone looking for her and with the breach in the cockpit window it would prove little shelter, from now on she'd have to fend for herself, time to put her training to its test.
She knew that the other Nova Cats would be returning for her in a few days, the Scouting mission was to last between ten and fourteen days, they'd already been on the planet eight days. When the JumpShip arrived in the system and their DropShip was not waiting a ground team would be sent to search for them, the Taurain force wouldn't be able to hold a full Nova Cat landing force and she'd be rescued, if they could find her. She knew the best chances of being found were to be in the vicinity of the DropShip landing zone, undoubtedly the Nova Cats would search the wreckage and with luck she'd find supplies there that would sustain her longer if her rescue team took their time.
It took Sonja more than an hour to cover the distance between her crashed cockpit module and the destroyed DropShip. The sun was high in the sky when she arrived at the wreckage the fire still burning from the hull of the smashed Broadsword which was still ablaze from several positions, Sonja could see parts of the ship’s hull had been blown clear of the vessel the two Awesomes she'd been sparring with had been smashed by one of the DropShip's exit doors. The area was surprisingly quiet Sonja couldn't see any Taurian forces around it was worth the chance of closing on the wreckage if only for the chance of claiming for equipment she could use to survive.
The heat coming from the flames were enough to keep Sonja at a distance from the wreckage glancing around Sonja saw some movement to her left hand side looking over she saw a large hulking figure moving around the area. Ducking behind some broken metal she saw the suit was burned and damaged the end of its left arm completely missing, knowing she couldn't outrun a Battle Armoured trooper she had no chance but to chance her luck she opened fire with her Gauss Sub-machine gun, the weapon was nearly silent as it fired a three round burst. Her enemy was so large it was impossible to miss firing constantly she cut into the suit's armour several rounds smashed into the suit's head and others into a large gash on its leg. The suited trooper stood there and took the fire seemingly unbothered by Sonja's weapons fire she kept firing concentrating on the head and torso area, but even the powerful gauss rounds were barely making a dent in the armour. In response her enemy raised its right arm and fired off the large weapon mounted there the artificial lightning bolt flew between the suit and Sonja's position, she dived out of the way of the weapon's fire just as the bolt hit the wreckage a steam of electricity bounced off the metal slamming into Sonja's back she could feel the heat of the blast burn through her fatigues and the moments later the pain steaming through her back. Sonja screamed loudly it was an intense shooting pain that flew up her back and down her limbs, she tried to ignore the pain as she rolled over the suit was still closing on her, in the prone position she fired her Gauss Sub-machine gun at the suit time and again, the pain from the electricity blast continued to pulse through her veins but she knew that would be the last thing she'd have to worry about if the suit reached her.
Pulling the trigger again three final bullets fired slamming into the armoured behemoth that now towered over her, she pulled the trigger again but nothing happened. She reached for another ammo cartridge but the pain of the electricity blast continued to pulse through her and she couldn't get to it before passing out. The Taurian armoured trooper still standing over her.
Wreckage
12 Light Year from Taurian Concordat
Periphery
3rd March 3085
To awake was to awake to the pain Sonja opened her eyes and could barely see her head pounded her eyes felt like they were on fire and her body felt sore just about everywhere. Over her a sheet of metal had been extended protecting her from the rain she tried to move but it hurt and her arms wouldn't respond, it took her a moment of panic to realize they were bound behind her. Turning her neck to the left and then the right she could see the ruined Battle Armour suit standing near a crackling fire. Beside the fire there was a hunched figure dressed in little more than a t-shirt and shorts she could see his left arm was cut badly near the shoulder and his body was burned in a few places she wasn't sure but it looked like her weapon had penetrated the armour causing the wound to his arm. He'd obviously tried to bandage some of his wounds but not gotten far now he laid staring into the flame, she studied him for a moment he was older than Sonja, which wasn't difficult she and her brother had been classed as special cases by their trainers, there freeborn heritage well known within the Nova Cats. Instead of an initial Trial of Position at their eighteenth birthday both Sonja and Grayson had taken their first Trials on their seventeenth birthdays. This hadn't caused any issues for Grayson who had excelled and become a Star Captain but Sonja had struggled and was only a Star Commander, she was still one of the youngest at that rank in the entire Touman. Now looking at this man she realized he was nearer his late twenties perhaps even his thirties and had seen far more combat than she in her first mission. He continued to stare into the fire Sonja followed his gaze her eyes beginning to clear as she looked at the flame, and there it was... an image.
Looking at the fire Sonja stared intently she'd heard her father speak of visions he'd had and other Nova Cats had claimed to have over the years, she and her brother Grayson had both tried and failed to ever see anything in the flames even after following the methods used by Nova Cat warriors in the past. Sonja had written it off perhaps it wasn't her path, she was freeborn daughter to a Trueborn warrior and a freeborn noble, she'd thought perhaps she was too far removed from the path. But now looking into the flame she saw something it looked like an animal four legs, a large sturdy body with horns from its head - a bull! - she realized symbol of the Taurian Concordat of the enemy solider sitting crouched over the fire. Continuing to stare into the fire Sonja realized there was something else there... before she could make it out the image was gone and with her strength sapped away she lapsed into unconsciousness.
Hours must have passed before Sonja awoke again this time, the sun was gone as was her pain, her eyes clearer, she could hear the rain still fell above her but she noticed the fire was out. The towering battle armour suit stood tall but the solider was gone. Using her legs she somehow found the strength and pulled herself up into a sitting position, looking around she could see various parts of the destroyed DropShip and other wreckage, under one massive girder was the remains of a Huntsman OmniMech the girder which had most likely been part of the DropShip's Mechbay had impaled the Mech smashing through the back of the cockpit down through the torso into the ground. Sonja wondered how the Mech's fusion engine had not exploded from the damage, if it had this entire area would likely have been in a lot more worse condition.
Looking around the small "campsite" the Taurian warrior had created she could see her survival pack and utility belt near the fire along with her medical kit and food, she suddenly realized she was hungry, how long had it been since she ate or drank? She honestly couldn't remember, moving her shoulders was agony her back burned by the particle blast from the Taurian armour testing the bounds still holding her arms she realized she wasn't breaking them. Knowing she couldn't escape at least at the moment she chose to bide her time, something would happen and she'd have a chance to escape and hopefully wait it out until the Nova Cats arrived to recover her.
As it turned out she didn't wait long for something to happen against the metal covering her there was a series of explosive "bangs" followed by a figure leaping over another piece of the shelter, she could tell it was her Taurian captor still dressed in just a T-shirt and shorts but now in full motion raising her Gauss Sub-machine gun to head height he snapped off several rounds in one direction then in another. He looked down at Sonja and suddenly she felt very vulnerable "about time!" He shouted more loudly than he needed to Sonja guessed he may have ear damage, looking back up he raised the sub-machine gun and fired several more rounds before ducking down again grabbing her gruffly by the shoulder he turned her over quickly, the pain was incredible but short lived as with one movement the Taurian slit her bounds releasing her arms "listen up, don't attack me!" He shouted into her ear, standing up he fired off another burst of fire ducking back down again. "We got pirates closing on us, they want me more than you but I reckon you'd be a nice prize too after all the mess you're Clan has made of this area!" He continued to shout "you want to stay free, we work together!"
Coming to her senses quickly Sonja rolled onto her chest, ignoring the pain she pushed herself up into a crouch "a weapon?" she croaked her mouth dry, "water" she whispered. The Taurian stood up again fired off another burst of gauss projectiles, Sonja could hear the return fire was widely inaccurate covering the wrecked Nova Cat DropShip. Moving across the camp she swiped up a water canteen tossing the lid to the side she downed most of it in one continuous drink "easy with that, we don't have much!" The Taurian shouted looking at her.
"You do not have to shout" Sonja said in return eyeing a second Gauss Sub-machine gun behind a box "been scavenging?" She said swiping up the weapon
"You Clanners come well equipped to a fight." He said, on the plus side he wasn't shouting anymore.
"Who are they?"
"Pirates, bounty hunters, ex-employees with a grudge pick one" he said "likely someone that doesn't like having a Calderon back on the throne." He said stepping up firing another burst at their enemy, the weapons fire was getting closer.
"We need to get out of here. Can the suit move?"
"No the DropShip explosion and your fire disabled too many systems"
"Good" she said quietly smiling at least her defence hadn't been in complete vein, raising from her position she looked for enemies but there were none to be seen "time to move follow me." She said breaking cover she moved towards another piece of wreckage more weapons fire followed her but all went wide. Stopping she turned and sighted two of her enemies snapping off two burst she could see one hit its mark, moments later her Taurian partner joined her.
"Where are we going?"
"Fallback position 1" She said without another word she ran towards another piece of wreckage near the nose of the Broadsword, looking up she could see the cockpit of the DropShip was a burnt out hole. Turning again she searched for her enemies but could see none the Taurian joined her quickly. "Keep moving for the tree line, I will cover" she said keeping her Gauss Sub-machine gun raised, her captor turned ally nodded and continued to run more bullets ran out one slamming into his leg, the Taurian's legs gave way and he it the ground quickly. "Damnit!" Sonja shouted firing of three bursts into the woods near where the fire had come from and than towards the Taurian moving under his left shoulder she helped picking him up and then the two limped into the wood. "Come on keep moving!" She shouted pain crossed his face but as they got further into the woods the weapons fire began to taper off Sonja continued to push but the wood was more like a bog her feet disappearing into the ground as she moved it didn't help with her injured ally. "So I cannot keep thinking of you as The Taurian" she stated "what is your name?"
"Erik" he said through the pain and exhaustion.
"Nice to meet you, I am Sonja" she said just as her foot disappeared again into the mud, this time further than before. Moments later the ground in front of her disappeared and Sonja felt gravity drag her down with Erik still holding on. "Hang on!" She screamed as they both began to tumble down the hill, Sonja smashed into some rocks as they fell quickly everything went dark as she lost consciousness.
Cave, unamed world
12 Light Year from Taurian Concordat
Periphery
4th March 3085
Sonja awoke within what looked like a cave looking around she saw Erik leaning against a wall, his left leg covered in blood, he was barely conscious. "Erik?" She whispered her head pounded. "What happened?"
"The ground gave way below us, knocked you out, I dragged you here but the bullet in my leg restricted what I could do." Sonja tried to get up but felt dizzy and sat back down "take your time, you took quite a knock."
"My head does not matter, if we do not stop that wound you could bleed to death." She said standing unsteadily looking through her utility belt pouches removing the combat first aid kit. "I will warn, I was not the best at Field Dressings" she said smirking lightly; Erik just nodded the blood loss finally becoming too much for him." Sonja put pressure on the wound, there was no exit wound meaning the bullet was still in there but she wasn't going to go poking around inside. She wrapped the dressing around his leg tieing it firmly, trying to stem the blood. "That should help a little, but you need a doctor."
"I'm not the only one, you're not the most steady on your feet" he croaked "might be a concussion, you shouldn't move around too much."
"I will not move around too much if you do not use so many contractions" Sonja said sitting down opposite him leaning up against the cave wall glancing out the entrance she saw it was raining again "we are not colonizing this planet." She whispered
"Continuous rain season, nice camouflage if you don't mind the rain." He said Sonja flinched "sorry, do not mind the rain" Erik sad correcting his speech.
"I mind" Sonja said quietly looking back at Erik "so let me get this right you Taurians ambushed us and destroyed my DropShip and then these pirates ambushed you?"
"Sort of" Erik said "if you Clansmen knew anything about this region you'd realize that this world is used by pirates to raid the Taurian Concordat. We assaulted your DropShip as we thought you were a pirate force who have been plaguing our world recently." Erik explained "we thought we had the drop on the pirates but instead we hit you, they bombed your DropShip as we attacked, the explosion devastated both your people and mine leaving the pirates to pick over our remains."
"Great and now we are stuck on a pirate hole both injured, what I do not get is why they are still after you?" Sonja asked looking at the Taurian warrior.
"You don't know who I am?" He asked surprised "then your intelligence is slacking." He said smirking knowingly "I'm Erik Martens-Calderon" he announced "Protector of the Taurian Concordat." Sonja just stared at him, she hadn't even thought about it why would she? What the hell the Protector of the Taurian Concordat would be on a backwater like this?
"Why would the Protector be here?" Sonja asked not convinced
"Training and Recon, I don't want to forget all that I was taught." Erik countered
"And your pitiful bodyguard unit?" Sonja asked her unit was small as she only ranked as a Star Commander, a leader of a nation even a periphery one should have a decent sized unit of support and defence.
"We are in the middle of nowhere, this was a training operation."
"Of course" Sonja said, by her side she found her Gauss SMG lay on the ground wrapping her fingers around the trigger she slowly raised it "well Protector, I claim you as my bondsman" she said aiming the weapon at him.
"Of course" he repeated "you do young Clans woman, your great victory against me brings you the Spoils, I think not" he said not moving she kept the SMG trained on him. He slowly moved glancing at Sonja "after all I've done to keep you alive. I trust you in a fight Nova Cat but not when I turn my back." He said his left arm rose in it he held a power pack, Sonja realized it was her SMG's power source. "We need to start working together" he said slowly "now get some sleep, tomorrow will be a big day."
Cave, unamed world
12 Light Year from Taurian Concordat
Periphery
5th March 3085
The night passed with no incident or at least none that Sonja noticed, she awoke the next morning her head far clearer, she noticed that Erik was still slumped against the wall, an SMG at his side she could also see the power pack for her own weapon and that his bandages were soaked through. Sonja knew that right now she could take his weapon and be in control for the first time since meeting him; if he was the Protector of the Taurian Concordat she could prove to all of Clan Nova Cat her worth in one act. Looking at the injured man who had been her captor, ally and saviour she realized she held no ill for him, his people had killed her unit but that was combat it was nothing personal.
Moving slowly she got closer to Erik and opened the first aid kit, inside she noticed there was only a couple of bandages left. Slowly slicing away the soaked bandages she could see the wound wasn't bleeding as badly as it had before but still would require more attention, carefully she bandaged his leg with clean dressings. She then opened a meal ready to eat ignoring the flavouring these bars had everything in them that needed to keep her alive despite the taste of cardboard.
As she ate Erik came too seeing her so close he shifted to the side in surprise then he noticed his bandages had been changed.
"Good morning" he croaked.
"Morning" she said continuing to demolish the bar, "you should eat one of these, will keep your strength up." She said handing him a bar, "you did say that today was a big day?"
"Indeed" he said opening the bar taking a bite "oh god" he whispered "these are worse than Taurian combat rations." He said continuing to eat the bar "yeah, I was thinking last night, we need communications of some sort to call either my people or your people."
"Fallback Position 1 would have communications, ammo and more of these" she said holding up the bar "but it is a fair distance from here but it should be worth it."
"Better than hiding in a cave." He said looking down at his leg "from pointing a gun at someone to bandaging them up, thank you" he remarked forcing his legs to move he moved to get up Sonja grabbed his arms helping him upright. "When you're ready, I am" he said.
"We should go" Sonja said grabbing her utility belt and Gauss SMG turning to face Erik he saw his hand outstretched with the power pack for the weapon. Sonja reached out to take the pack but Erik's grasp held firm, "we work together now" he said Sonja nodded and he released the power source. The two continued leaving the cave heading into the rain soaked forests, it had obviously rained again during the night, the ground and plants were soaked, Sonja would have to watch her footing and make sure the same accident did not repeat itself. Erik was making slow progress behind her his injured leg slowing him considerably, ahead of Erik Sonja stopped and turned her attention to a small tree with her combat knife she sliced down on one of the arms of tree removing it. She then began to strip off the smaller branches attached to the piece of wood. Erik joined her shortly afterwards.
"What are you doing?" He asked watching her; finished with the branches she now cut off the jagged end and handed it to him "I have the rifle" he said indicating to his SMG which despite the name was sized more like an assault rifle.
"It is to help you walk" Sonja said with a smirk before heading off, Erik smiled himself as he braced his injured side on the stick, it wasn't perfect but it helped take the pressure off quite a bit and helped his balance. They were able to pick up their pace slightly Sonja was still faster than Erik but he was at least keeping up now. As she was out ahead Sonja was able to keep an eye out for any pirates or hazards before Erik caught up with her and she was able to search for markers that would guide her to the Fallback Position, the woods all looked the same. Fortunately she could still see smoke from the DropShip's fires blowing in the wind above the tree line, and she knew roughly where the Nova Cat Supply Cache was to where the DropShip had landed.
They travelled for what seemed like hours but was actually only a little over an hour before Sonja saw movement up ahead, crouching down she raised her weapon as she saw five pirates all unshaven and wearing various pieces of old torn clothes standing near the entrance to a small cave. Each was armed with a rifle of some sort but none wore any type of heavy armour or protective garments. Erik joined her crouching down as best he could with his leg. "Are we there yet?" He said quietly Sonja didn't know if he was joking or being serious. "Only five?"
"As far as I can see, I think we can take them. If I flank them to the left and you stay here providing cover fire it should keep them down, then I will catch them in a cross fire."
"Let's go" Erik said getting into a decent firing position "I'll give you a minute then open up." Sonja nodded and began to sneak through the trees, soon she heard the shouts from the pirates as Erik began to fire, his Gauss SMG was so quiet they were having trouble working out where he was and were firing their rifles into the trees wildly. Sonja thought she was a decent distance from Erik and turned around towards the store again. She could see two of the pirates were down on the ground bleeding; the other three were spraying the trees around Erik's position with as much fire as they could muster making an absolute racket. Dropping her rifle's sights over the pirates Sonja squeezed off her first burst, of the three shots two slammed into her enemy while a third went through the log he'd been sheltering besides shattering it. Her fire had turned the pirate fire concentrated on Erik into an uncoordinated mess, the remaining two pirates fired wildly into the trees around them. Both Erik and Sonja had little trouble with single bursts each to bring down the last two men. Not wasting time Sonja leapt over the log and closed on the Nova Cat storage cave as she walked past the fallen pirates she raised her SMG and fired a burst into each trooper finishing each off whether they were alive or dead, Erik hobbled over to her as she finished the last trooper.
"The amount of noise they made we'll probably have company soon."
"Aff" Sonja said "We should grab what we can and disappear, follow me." She said entering the cave, about five metres inside the mouth of the cave was a large circular door; Sonja could see a blast mark where the pirates had unsuccessfully tried to enter the cache. Moving over to the right of the door Sonja raised the butt of her SMG and smashed it into the rocks there, to Erik's surprise the rocks shattered like glass revealing a control panel "blast resistant but hit it in the right place and shatters like an egg." Sonja explained tying in her code the door groaned and creeked as it began to slowly roll out of the way.
"I don't suppose we can lock ourselves in here?"
"Well it is air-tight once sealed so not a good plan, and now that I have exposed the controls they could get in." Sonja said heading over to a control panel she activated a series of controls "get us some supplies, I will send the message."
"The pirates will likely hear that too" he warned as he began to look through the supplies instantly picking up a Gauss Pistol, smaller than his SMG, he slipped the weapon into a pocket.
"Aff, but it is either this or we live the rest of our lives on this rock."
"I can think of worse company" Erik said quietly as he grabbed a charcoal jumpsuit and began to strip off his own bloodstained clothing, his comment brought a vaguely amused look from Sonja. Erik picked up a backpack and glanced inside a first aid kit, some Clan MRE Rations and what looked like a tent were folded inside. Placing two near the door he began to look at other supplies grabbing several cartridges of Gauss SMG ammo as well, at the door however he could hear movement, reaching for his newly acquired pistol he barely had time to draw it before seeing the first pirate. Snapping off two shots he saw one catch the pirate in the shoulder throwing him back out of the way. "We've got more company!" He shouted a warning firing another couple of shots.
"Fire in the hole!" Sonja shouted from behind him and Erik saw a small object fly past his head instinctively he ducked moments later the object exploded in the cave mouth collapsing the rocks there effectively sealing them in.
"You think that was the best idea?" We're trapped in here and their Mechs could dig us out." He warned.
"Aff, we can use the escape tunnel." Sonja said moving past Erik she set some more explosives behind the fallen rocks then re-entered the cache "come on in" she said Erik looked at her cautiously.
"You said it was air-tight." He said, the last thing he wanted to do was seal himself into a hole with someone who had been his enemy just days before.
"Looks like they finished the secondary tunnel, once I seal this one the other should unlock instantly." She said grabbing a Mauser IIC Assalt Rifle off the weapons rack slinging it over her shoulder. "The signal has been set to a repeating pattern. You have the supplies?"
"Here" Erik said handing her a pack "anything else?"
"Just this" Sonja said picking up a small pack. Heading for the emergency exit tunnel the door door at the end was as Sonja had said ajar but as they got there Erik noticed why they could not remain within the cache, the door led out the other side of the hill and was completely exposed it wouldn't take the pirates long to find and breach it. Before she left the tunnel Sonja dropped her second pack "move as quickly as possible towards the tree line" she said pointing out ahead of them "move" she ordered. Erik began to move ahead of her as Sonja worked on the pack for a moment before joining him helping speed up his pace, moments later the entrance to the cave exploded behind them.
"Nice precaution" Erik noted looking over his shoulder, Sonja continued to move but Erik pushed her to the ground "DOWN!" He shouted seeing the incoming pirates, as she fell out the way Erik pulled up his Gauss SMG and peppered the area where the pirates were coming from. On the ground Sonja rolled over to her side and pulled the Mauser IIC into her arms spraying the pirate's area with pulse laser blasts. "We're in trouble" Erik said quietly looking down at the prone Nova Cat warrior he could see more pirates than she.
"Let's even the odds" she said rising to her feet she flicked the secondary trigger on her Mauser IIC launching a fragmentation grenade. The grenade landed between several of the pirates and exploded sending bodies flying everywhere. Instantly Sonja triggered a second grenade followed by more pulse laser fire sending more pirates for cover. Erik continued to add his Gauss SMG to her cover fire however they were not moving and did not have an infinite amount of ammunition.
"Oh hell!" Erik shouted a warning seeing the pirates extra firepower "trust them to have a BattleMech close at hand." He said the torso mounted machine gun and laser immediately opened fire both Erik and Sonja hit the deck. "Got anything else to even the odds?" He asked as the BattleMech continued to fire into the area Sonja aded another grenade to the launcher.
"That is not a BattleMech. It's a Sarissa" she said quietly looking at the Mech "an IndustrialMech dressed up as a BattleMech. See how it likes this" she said raising the Mauser again she fire this time when the grenade reached the Mech it exploded just before impact showering the Mech in napalm. "Something our scientists have been working on, poor man's inferno." She said smirking Erik nodded watching as pirate infantry scrambled to clear the fire, it wouldn't stop the Mech but it would slow it down.
"If you find a poor man who has a weapon like that, point him in the direction of my quartermaster, I want his supplier’s name." Erik said as the two of them began to crawl away from the scene, they were by no means in the clear but hopefully they had bought themselves some more time clear of the pirate forces. And on this planet time was all they needed.
 
Unnamed world
12 Light Year from Taurian Concordat
Periphery
5th March 3085
Helping each other almost until they could not move anymore Sonja and Erik finally stopped under several large trees there the two collapsed in a heap exhausted, the pirates had given up their chase but now both were exhausted and lost. "We'll rest here" Erik said opening up his survival pack he noticed a couple of bullet holes, looking through the pack he noticed they'd gone straight through his survival tent in several places "this could be a problem" he said pulling it out, "what a mess." He said as it began to fold out, the Clan built tent was made of mimic-weave cloth and stands by attaching an electrical charge it should instantly assemble to a pre-determined shape, however when Erik added power to his tent it barely assembled several bullet holes appearing.
"It probably saved your life." Sonja said indicating to the bullets that fell from the pack "we can share mine." She said pulling out her tent which assembled perfectly it was only a one person shelter but it was better than nothing as the rain began again. Climbing into the tent together Erik initially tried facing away from Sonja but it didn't work neither felt comfortable so he rolled over facing her back. Surprisingly Sonja snuggled up to him as they laid there "don't get any ideas, Taurian." She whispered using a rarely used contraction.
"Trust me Nova Cat I have no idea what is going on. One minute it's a simple mission, next we have enemies everywhere and now I'm sleeping with one of those enemies." He remarked "all I can say is it's been one crazy week." He said, "I bet you anything this is the last situation you expected to be in?" He asked quietly "Sonja" he whispered but got no response, it took Erik a few moments to realize she was asleep. Leaning over to his side he checked and found his Gauss SMG laying beside him ready at a moment's notice, he'd rest but he'd make sure Sonja was safe while she slept she was more mobile than he if either of them was going to pull them through it would be her.
The night had passed uneventfully Sonja had awoken after a few hours sleep to find Erik still awake keeping watch over her. Checking his wounded leg she changed his dressings again then forced the Taurian to take some sleep and let her take watch, with the small tent she'd slept close to him sharing his body heat and making it comfortable for the two of them. Within the Clans this would be seen as simple survival, if Sonja had been a Trueborn she'd perhaps have seen nothing in this situation however Sonja was a freeborn brought up as the daughter of Canin Rosse and Yvonne Nova Cat, she knew how things could develop and the strength in such things, as a Clan Warrior she'd never expected have anything like her parents life. Although she felt nothing but comradely for Erik, he was her ally not her lover, she wondered if laying like this was how it always felt for those who loved another.
The morning came and it continued to rain, Erik was still exhausted and Sonja let him sleep, save his energy for when they needed it she was also growing used to his presence there. Erik didn't lay there asleep for long only a couple hours after the sun had risen he awoke almost immediately raising his weapon pointing it at the door of the tent. "It is all quiet" Sonja whispered "seems they have decided to leave us alone for a while."
"Probably still trying to get into the weapons cache." Erik muttered "shame we have to leave it for a bunch of pirates."
"The explosives probably messed it up a bit." Sonja said Erik nodded "with luck the communications is still broadcasting."
"Indeed" Erik agreed "so what do we do now?"
"I do not like hiding" Sonja said rolling onto her back slitting up slightly "but our weapons will not return fire against a Mech" she said unhappy at being unable to get some payback, they hadn't done too bad so far but even against the sole IndustrialMech she'd seen so far they couldn't do much.
"Some of my people could be alive." Erik said quietly, so far he hadn't mentioned his own people Sonja knew that her people were likely dead killed in the DropShip explosion. "I don't know how much difference us two could make but you never know."
"I think we have a mission" Sonja said smiling, Erik nodded "let's get packed up and head out. If the pirates are still searching the wreckage of my DropShip and the Cache we might get lucky at your LZ." She said crawling out of the tent at the door she raised her Gauss SMG and checked all around the the tent making sure there was no-one close by.
"It's would be just like us to have good luck" Erik said quietly crawling out behind her, it was more difficult with his leg but he could tell the bandages were helping his wound, he could feel the strength slowly returning. "Let's go" he said smirking it was so easy with Sonja, for the first time in a good while he enjoyed just being Erik instead of Erik Martens-Calderon Protector of the Taurian Concordat.
After a short time they had completed their tidying up the camp and began heading for the Taurian's LZ this time Erik taking the lead while Sonja followed him watching their rear. The two continued through the woods in silence for a while but soon they both realized there was no-one near them or searching for them. "So how are your Nova Cats enjoying the Periphery?" Erik had asked beginning the conversation, he was purely curious from a personal perspective but he also knew anything he learned could help his nation.
"We are doing as we always do, following a vision of the Khan." Sonja said quite spookily. Erik looked confused "our Khan and Oathmaster before the Invasion of the Inner Sphere shared a vision that put the Nova Cats on their own path away from the other Invading Clans, if we stayed in the Homeworlds we were dead, if we invade the Inner Sphere we would cease to be the Clan that we were. So we chose our own path."
"So wait you invaded a pirate realm following a dream one of your leaders had? Are you nuts?" Erik asked both surprised and annoyed
"Some of the other Clans think so." Sonja confirmed "however the results of the Nova Cat labours cannot be denied, we have flourished where we are despite what is there."
"Just because the Davion's have given you an easy ride" Erik said "if they had stood up to your threat, we would have support them, despite our differences we know a real threat when we see one." Sonja laughed out aloud.
"If only you could hear yourself." She said stopping short "scared of the menace that has never once caused you issue."
"You are scouting worlds near us." Erik accused
"For colonization, our population grows faster than we can currently support and sustain." Sonja explained "and as for the Davion's they know what threat we pose them" she said "none."
"We'll see a time will come when Davion sees you as a threat as they see us." Erik said giving her a warning he'd heard all his life Cham Kithrong, the man who had raised him with his mercenary mother was not a great believer in the Calderon belief that the Federated Suns was a major threat to the Taurian Concordat however Erik had slowly began to see where many of his Marshals and where the Calderon belief came from. Not because Davion regularly caused them issue but because of the hatred many Taurians felt for the Federated Suns, it wouldn't be hard to believe from a Davion perspective that the irrational hatred from the Taurians could spill out into violence and everyone knew the Taurians would be willing to use weapons of mass destruction if it came to it in offence or defence. All it would take is one Taurian to believe the Federated Suns had wronged them for a major war to begin. The Nova Cats on the other hand were a major threat to the Federated Suns, Erik had heard stories of their mighty WarShips and their armies of advanced technology, and already experienced combat against Clan Elementals, he knew their worth in combat and had the scars as a reminder.
"We will be no threat until our Khan changes, after all our current Khan understands the Federated Suns and First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion better than anyone else within our Clan." She saw Erik's confusion "his partner for life, wife you would saw, is Victor's younger sister Yvonne Steiner-Davion. His children, the first children to a Khan since the founding of the Clans, are of their blood. Freeborn and likely never leaders of our Clan, never able to take a Bloodname but still important parts in understanding the Federated Suns."
"You have sons of Davion in your ranks" Erik said stunned "perhaps I underestimated your Clan, taming House Davion is quite a feat." He remarked
"House Davion is hardly tamed, and it is a Son and Daughter." Sonja shot back Erik smiled at her near instant comeback at his comment "my brother and I" she finished. Now it was Sonja's turn to smile as Erik's face was covered in shock as he realized exactly who Sonja was. "Changes things Quiaff?" She asked moving off ahead of the Taurian.
"Aye" Erik answered he couldn't help but respect the Clans woman. She had put past their differences shared supplies with him, kept him alive, shared a tent and bed to keep him awake. Despite her Clan origin he trusted her with his life, but could he get past the knowledge that she had Davion blood in her? A direct descendant of the ruling line of the Federated Suns, the Concordat's historical enemy. Since Erik had assumed the Protectorship he had questioned some of the old beliefs, but could he ever get past that? He followed her slowly still thinking about it, it was strange how moments before his thoughts had been completely different, would the Calderon family ever change? Stopping for a moment he looked up at her still moving away watching the forests for pirates, he watched Sonja move, carefully methodically, just like a Davion, no just like someone wanting to stay alive. Just like the woman who had engaged his Battle Armour suit with the weapon at her side knowing she was hopelessly outgunned and could not win. How could he treat her different just because of something she could not control? Erik decided right there that from him the Calderon line would be different not judge each book by its title, or each person by their name, he needed to his life could depend on it.
Unnamed world
12 Light Year from Taurian Concordat
Periphery
5th March 3085
It took the two of them almost three hours to travel between their campsite and the area used by the Taurians as a staging area most of which was spent in silence from both travelling companions working out exactly where they stood with each other. Fortunately Erik's sense of direction did not let him down as they travelled through the rain soaked forest and soon they could see the Taurian DropShip still standing where Erik had left it all those days before. The DropShip, a Union sat in a small clearing with a small fenced off area near it, there was one BattleMech a twenty ton Wasp on patrol as well as a couple of pirate troopers visible but none seemed particularly interested in what they were doing. "Anything special about the DropShip?" Sonja whispered, they were still a distance from the vessel but better not to take chances.
"The Aerospace Launch doors are fake" Erik answered "that entire deck was gutted by engineering teams instead we carried a Battle Armour maintenance and training area. Large enough for sixteen troopers." He explained "otherwise it's standard Union, the weapons are upgraded to Star League Standard."
"No special security?" Sonja asked surprised that the vessel that had carried the Taurian leader had no special systems.
"The Battle Armour were security as well as a deployable asset, the corridors are slightly wider so they could pass anywhere in the ship but all the original suits were destroyed fighting the Nova Cats and the pirates." Erik said plainly trying not to think about the men that had been his platoon killed fighting to defend him. "I think the crew would probably be held on the Battle Armour deck if they are still alive, if we can get to them we could maybe launch, it would maximize our chances of being picked up."
"Aff" Sonja nodded agreeing without saying much else her eyes searching the area around the DropShip.
"What are you thinking?" Erik asked watching her eyes
"I think if you could run this would be easier." Sonja said bluntly "I will make a distraction, you make for the Mechbay doors, get aboard and make sure they can not lock me out." She said raising heading off "move as quickly as you can when you see my signal." She said moving off.
"I assume I'll know it when I see it." Erik whispered more to himself than anything. Sonja rapidly disappeared into the trees cutting diagonally across the face of the DropShip carefully staying hidden by the trees and plants. Once beyond the DropShip she got behind the fenced off area and saw exactly what she needed, within the area was a whole load of BattleMech ordinance from Machine Gun ammo to reloads for missile and rocket launchers.
"Perfect" she said pulling back she climbed a small tree, level with the head of the Wasp BattleMech. In her hands she held the Mauser IIC, aiming at the BattleMech she knew she couldn't do any major damage to the huge machine but that wasn't the intention. Aiming for the light Mech's head she triggered off her first and second bursts, pulse laser blasts tore across the Mech's lightly armoured head. The blasts did not damage but they got the Mech's attention as well as the attention of the pirate infantry guards that were around the DropShip. Snapping off another burst she hit the Mech again before pulling back behind the ammo dump. The Wasp continued to close it's machine gun spraying the tree Sonja had just jumped down from with fire, the pilot obviously not a rookie carefully avoided walking into the ammunition store walking around while continuing to cover the trees in machine gun fire. Knowing that the pilot would soon have traveled around the ammo and could fire on her directly flicked the Mauser to it's secondary trigger and fired her last grenade into the ammo dump while diving for cover, the Mauser IIC flying from her hands as she dived.
The explosion was massive more than one hundred tons of ammo exploded almost as soon as the napalm like substance made contact with the crates, the explosion picked up the Wasp and threw the twenty ton machine nearly sixty metres through the air smashing head first into the ground the pilot if not killed by the explosion was definitely killed by the impact, the Mech somersaulted several times before crashing to a halt. Sonja rolled over on the ground as trees burst into fire all around her, avoiding the flames she leapt back to her feet as two of the pirate infantry approached somehow they had avoided the exploding ammunition and flying BattleMech. She reached for her Gauss SMG at her back but the pirates were almost on her their weapons raised, raising her arms she prepared to surrender just as two bursts of fire caught the pirates from behind, looking up Sonja saw Erik moving for the DropShip firing his SMG at the pirate troopers it was a wonder shot to have taken both pirates down with such precision but Sonja did not question it instead running for the DropShip drawing her own SMG.
Erik climbed the ramp into the DropShip before Sonja and immediately fell back on his close quarters training covering all the corners of the room he quickly gunned down two pirates who had been answering the explosion outside. In the bay there were two pirate BattleMechs present a medium Griffin and a heavier Catapult, looking up at both Mechs Erik was glad neither Mech was powered or had pirates near them. If even one of the Mechs had been powered up it would be game over for their plan. Moving into the room the sound of assault rifle fire filled the air as the pirates within the DropShip reacted, Erik dived for cover only popping up to return fire, Sonja quickly joined him in the Mechbay "three shooters, twelve to three o'clock elevation three metres!" Erik shouted rapidly over the noise of the incoming fire Sonja quickly popped up gunning down one of the pirates in the centre of the three.
"Two, twelve and three!" She shouted back ducking down as more assault rifle fire cut through the area Sonja looked at Erik and both nodded, popping up together they peppered the area where the pirates were, both remaining pirates fell in a hail of Gauss SMG fire. "Moving!" Sonja called out rushing forward she fired more rounds into the downed pirates seeing an AX-22 Imperator Assault Rifle on one of the pirates she grabbed up the weapon and two additional magazines pushing her Gauss SMG back to her back. "Clear!" she called back to Erik, dropping to one knee she covered the main entry door and elevator as the Taurian warrior caught up with her and moved past.
"Moving!" Erik answered as he moved passing Sonja's crouched position into the corridor clearing the first three rooms in the corridor before dropping to a crouch in a doorway. "Clear" he shouted back. Sonja then repeated his move clearing the next three rooms stooping at the foot of an access ladder checking both up and down before stopping. As Erik joined her she climbed the ladder up to the next level waiting for him at the top. Two more pirates appeared on that level Sonja emptied the remains of her AX-22 magazine cutting both men down as Erik appeared on the level. Swapping over mags the two cleared the rooms, moving methodically room to room finding no resistance.
"Quiet?" Sonja said
"Too quiet" Erik agreed as the two moved up the stairs before they could reach the top of the spiral stairs machine gun fire cut through the air cutting into the bulkheads above them. "Nice" Erik shouted "they've jury rigged a Battle Armour Machine Gun." He said seeing the weapon even from a distance he was acutely aware of the weapon and it's dangers. "One thing they probably haven't considered" he said after the machine gun fired a second burst just missing his head, there was an audible thud down the corridor "that thing runs hot" he said standing up, the two pirates were looking at their now useless overheated weapon, two rapid bursts cut down both pirates.
Heading down the corridor they found a secured door, punching in his override code Erik quickly released the door both he and Sonja raised their weapons as the door opened revealing seven members of the DropShip crew. "Protector" one of them called out with surprise.
"Where's the rest of the crew?" Erik asked knowing there should be double that amount of crewmen and techs.
"Most of the Battle Armour and Mech techs were taken to the Clan DropShip to identify salvage. The Captain and two senior officers were executed for failing to help the pirates."
"We're taking back the ship follow us." Erik said handing one of the DropShip crew his Gauss Pistol while others grabbed up pirate weapons dropped on the deck. With more manpower they rapidly cleared the next two levels of the DropShip finding little resistance until they reached the entrance to the bridge. Two more pirates died in a hail of weapons fire trying to stop Erik, Sonja and the DropShip's crew again Erik's personal override code opened the doors to the bridge to the dismay of both the pirates in the room both of whom surrendered immediately. "Subaltern, secure the Mechbay and seal all pressure doors, prepare for immediate take off." Erik ordered the most senior member of the DropShip crew "you men secure these two in one of the crew quarters." He said looking at the two captured pirates who were quickly marched away.
"What about your friend?" One of the crewmen asked looking at Sonja still clutching the AX-22 in her hands.
"She's with me." Erik said in a clear tone, no-one was to go near her, it was obvious to everyone in the room Sonja included that Erik was in charge no-one spoke up until the vessel was prepared. Both Erik and Sonja secured themselves in jump seats as the Subaltern counted down the launch procedures, two Pirate BattleMechs had approached the vessel but the weapons of the DropShip were keeping them at bay. Then suddenly the vessel shot into the air blasting clear of the forests quickly heading into space.
"Two minor hull breaches reported sir, but manageable" one of the crewmen said manning one of the consoles "we've began to broadcast on all Taurian military frequencies, if there's a JumpShip out there they'll pick it up."
"Excellent work." Erik said as natural gravity began to disappear to be replaced by the DropShip's thrust generated lighter gravity "Captain" he said turning to the Subaltern. "We're going to retire to my quarters, have the crew do a full sweep of the vessel and ensure we have no pirates still aboard. Apprise me of any changes." Erik said rising from his chair Sonja released herself from her chair and followed Erik from the bridge still clutching the AX-22. Erik's personal quarters were not far from the bridge, the pirates had made a complete mess of the room but at least the bed was still in one piece. "You're not going to need that again aboard this vessel." He said taking the assault rifle from her hands slowly calmly, placing it on a table nearby. "You can have the bed, I'll sleep on the couch." He said turning away from her after a moment moment's later Sonja's arms appeared around him.
"Space is cold, you shared my bed once, share it again" she asked turning him in her arms, for a moment there was only them their eyes could see nothing else. A kiss gave Sonja all the answer she needed for her request. The DropShip would take another three days to reach the the jump point in that ti
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Starliner One
Terran Orbit, Sol System
Star League Protectorate
1st April 3085
On the 18th anniversary of ComStar’s return to the Terran system and the beginning of the Liberation of Terra, the scene is far different in orbit. Flanked by three Star League WarShips a former vessel of the ComGuard, the Blake’s Vengeance, was relaunched as the Starliner One. Purchased by Virgin Global and Interstellar Transport’s owner Sir Richard Branson X the vessel had been nearly fully disarmed and rebuilt from the ground up as a civilian transport vessel, a weapon of war re-designated as Luxury Liner.
Equipped with various entertainment decks the ship could carry twelve hundred passengers in the best quarters on any space ship ever built. Attached to the vessel are six further passenger DropShips with an equal amount of passengers. The vessel is equipped with an Earth deck that mimicked a planet’s surface, a massive pool, a climbing area for a more active passenger, a Space Deck with allowed passengers to do there own EVA experiences and space walks. And a Drone targeting arena which allowed passengers to shoot down specially built two ton drones using the Starliner One’s specially modified weapons.
The whole purpose of the Starliner One was to offer passengers a new type of experience, life aboard a large space going vessel that unlike JumpShips could travel anywhere within a planetary system. In a deal done with all the Succession States the Starliner One is given rights to visit ever single Succession State capital and cross borders completely unmolested. As a mark of respect to the Star League and to mark this year’s Martial Olympiad the Starliner One first enters the Federated Suns on its multi-year journey.
Oriente One, Oriente Orbit
Oriente Protectorate
Former Free Worlds League
15th April 3085
In orbit over Oriente Captain-General Jonas Halas stood aboard the system’s newest space station. At fifteen thousand tons it was smaller than many DropShips but the station’s potential far outweigh’s its mass and size. “Ladies and Gentlemen the Oriente One is Oriente’s first step towards a lasting defensive strategy. Mounting one of the largest deployable Naval Weapons the Heavy Naval Gauss Rifle the Oriente-class Defence Gun is designed to keep Oriente’s enemies at a distance. While its fighters will serve a double purpose be able to assist customs operations and search and rescue during peace time and provide the station with an additional asset during conflict.†He said explaining the features of this new station; all in all it was a floating gun capable of hurling Heavy Naval Gauss rounds at an enemy at extreme ranges. “This station is as I said the first step. I have already authorized construction of nine further Defence Guns like this one, all purposed with protecting our capital from all threats. Once Oriente is safe, we will look at protecting further worlds with this type of defence station, my dearest hope is that one day every world of the Protectorate will have its own station ready to defend against all aggressors.†He said honestly, unfortunately unless these worlds funded these stations themselves that was perhaps best described as a pipe dream. And even then one Defence Gun would never be enough, Oriente One would defend Oriente from certain avenues of attack however it could not move and its turning speed was a fraction of that capable by an enemy combat vessel. For now the gun was a useful asset for the system however to make it effective, it would require all its sister stations working in unison with it, then and only then would Oriente be truly safe and Jonas was dedicated to that goal.
 
Stone Spirit Claimed Space
Periphery regions
Outpost *27
21st April 3085
After spending nearly a year-and-a-half exploring the remains of RWR Outpost #27 the Stone Spirits, remains of Clan Stone Rhino and Blood Spirit, had explored and found just about all they could on their initial claimed planet. The replica of the Forbidden City was now their thriving capital city with the civilians bringing the world back to life. From there they had sent forages into nearby systems and found three of the systems had habitable worlds all former worlds of the Rim Worlds Republic abandoned when the SLDF had smashed the resistance there.
On each of the three worlds they found factories, warehouses and entire cities abandoned almost like they had been restored since the SLDF had been here and abandoned again. Seeing the potential in these worlds and the obvious lack of interested in them by the Lyran Commonwealth the two Clans made a choice. They decide that the Clan history and traditions that they all grew up with have actually been what is holding them back and instead of following them blindly to oblivion they choose to forge their own path. Civilians are encouraged to take surnames although names from both the Clans and Inner Sphere are forbidden instead ancient historical English and American names like Lincoln, Patton, Montgomery, Churchill, Bush and Thatcher become common place. Those warriors who have gained a Bloodname within the Clans are allowed to keep their names however they are never to be hereditary. Finally the last scout party returned reporting the discovery of an ancient shipyard in one of the scouted systems. The Stone Spirit leaders realize it’s time to move rapidly moving forces into five of the scouted systems taking over facilities and fortifying their positions.
AUTHOR NOTE: I wrote this before ISP3 so Outpost 27 is far more useful than it is in canon...
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May's a short one, so here is May and June
Duke’s official Residence
Public Announcement
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
10th May 3085
A Star League Press Conference was called in the early hours of Liberty’s morning to announce the death of Duke Najemdeem Soshan. The unpopular duke is reported to have died in his sleep; the forty-two year old had previously been thought to have been in perfect health. Rumours persist that Soshan’s death is suspicious and that the Star League are quietly brushing it under the carpet. As the ranking officer on the planet General Bannister Cameron, commander of the Second Royal Armoured Division, is placed as guardian over the world. The time displaced General is a Cameron of direct blood decent to the former Terran Hegemony’s ruling line. Now that he has been placed so conveniently in a liege lord position of an entire planet is too much for many conspiracy theorists.
Quatre Belle Shipyards
Raven Alliance, Periphery
21st May 3085
Clan Goliath Scorpion’s WarShips Prometheus and Sagitta arrive at Quatre Belle shipyards to begin refit works. The Goliath Scorpions quickly win rights to have their vessels maintenance completed by Snow Raven engineers and for the Goliath Scorpions to gain access to the Star League-era facility. Soon after the ships begin the long trek back to Clan space along the Exodus Road in their possession is tons of Star League artifacts, information on the original Star League and more importantly the Second Armoured Cavalry Division. A living breathing relic of the original Star League with even better heritage than the Eridani Light Horse Brigade something most Goliath Scorpions of the past would have died to see.
 
Davion High Command Meeting
Fox’s Den, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
3rd June 3085
Standing up in front of the assembled heads of the Armed forces of the Federated Suns’ High Command was nothing new to Marshal Galen Cox. However today was a special day the day one of his ideas would be unveiled, he had been working it with the First Prince since the Varnay Crisis, Victor believed it was time for their work to put it into public view. Representing the three Marches Field Marshals Nathaniel Hasek, Tarncred Sandoval and Paul Bowman were all present however none of them knew what to expect.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I hope you are all in good health, welcome to the Fox’s Den†he started. “I have been working with the First Prince to update the structure of units within the AFFS.†He continued, seeing worried faces already the AFFS was a combined arms military it had been for centuries since the reforms of First Prince Melissa Davion and it was widely regarded as the most professional military within the Inner Sphere, even the reformed Star League had taken some pointers from it. “The Regimental Combat Team is very effective at pressing an invasion or forcing an enemy onto the defence however in many cases it is overkill especially for garrison duty. An RCT is also difficult to transport and strains our still stretched resources requiring multiple JumpShips just for a single unit.†In the case of the largest RCTs transporting 8 regiments’ worth of troops and support equipment was a costly and difficult manner. With much of the Federated Suns production placed on WarShips and Assault DropShips conventional JumpShips were as always at a premium.
“Myself and the First Prince believe there is a way to keep our current doctrine but make the logistics easier and allow us to garrison our more worlds, and protect our people, more effectively but without losing strength.†He said choosing his words carefully; the next part would be the real sore part for some of the commanders but necessary. “We have decided to instead create the Light Combat Team which are detailed in the documents in front of you.†He directed them to the small stacks of papers around them. “Smaller than a traditional RCT the LCT is based around the concept of a single Reinforced Mech Battalion of four companies. Supporting them would be a regiment of Heavy or assault armour vehicles and a regiment of medium to light armoured vehicles. With artillery battalion attached to particularly important defensive positions. For infantry support the LCT will have a regiment of Battlle Armour trained troops and a further regiment of engineering, security and support personnel. This will be the model for future independent units and for regional March units.†He said he could see the shock on Field Marshal Sandoval and Hasek’s faces there three RCTs were being cut down to size. “However to counter this each March will be allowed to raise a brigade of five such formations instead of currently three.â€
“Sire, why listen to these Lyrans?†Tarncred Sandoval asked looking towards Victor both Galen Cox and Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner were from the Lyran realm and had chosen to remain in the Federated Suns after the Federated Commonwealth split, both men also have very close ties to the First Prince. “They never accepted our ways of battle, why break something that is not broken?â€
“This is hardly a Lyran model Field Marshal" Victor said harshly banishing those thoughts in an instant "I do not see companies of ponderous assault Mechs, I do not see generals who would rather sit at a desk than fight with their people. I see a system that is broken, Tarncred." He said becoming personal with the Field Marshal they knew each other well Victor was not so distant with the man than he had been with Tarncred's father. "But it is one we can change to suit where we are and where we are going. The formations you speak of can handle offensives but they leave large swaths of our territory undefended a commander is forced to compromise if he requires to defend multiple worlds. With an increased presence along our borders, from multiple factions, we need to be able to cover large areas and react to them.â€
“These formations could barely handle a Clan Cluster.†Nathaniel Hasek commented almost seeing where the First Prince was going.
“They were created to handle just that.†Galen countered “our borders have Snow Ravens, Nova Cats and Sea Foxes along them. These units are very mobile; most Clan Clusters can be organized into two DropShips which are easily transported in a single JumpShip. We can only transport elements of an RCT in those same ships and it takes us longer to mobilize. An LCT can be transported in a single large JumpShip, which future production will be geared towards.â€
“What about formations that are already RCT in size should we break them?†Paul Bowman asked his own Cossacks were only just building to full strength, the people of Tikonov had worked very hard to create these formations he didn't want to see them broken so soon it would hurt his people.
“No†Victor said quietly conceding the point, he'd guessed this was one point he could not win before today came. “Current independent and March RCTs will be maintained in size until combat losses or transfers reduce them in size. Already both the First Kestrel Grenadiers and the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry have begun to make these changes. The Grenadiers is already an LCT in all but name while the combat losses the Armoured Calvary took on Sian has reduced them to a little more than what an LCT will be. Field Marshal Cox has already sent orders to both units informing them of their new designations and of the fact that they will now have permanently assigned transport assets. Other units such as the Uhlans and the Kittery Borderers are likely too large to slim down anytime soon without causing massive disruption.â€
“What about other formations? The Davion Guard, Crucis Lancers, and New Avalon Guards are they to be ‘slimmed down’ as well?†Nathaniel Hasek asked noticing these Brigade had not been mentioned.
“No†Victor admitted “I will not weaken the core of the Federated Suns armed forces. Your March forces are designated to react to and guard the borders of the Federated Suns holding our enemies up, the core brigades of the AFFS will form the hammer for your anvils.â€
“Other commands such as the New Ivaarsen Chaussers and Deneb Light Cavalry will be downgraded to LCT formations as we move forward.†Galen continued trying to cover Victor's sudden defence. “While the Ceti Hussars will remain at strength since their combat command formations are already broken along similar lines to the LCT concept. Their combat teams can already cover multiple worlds easily. Additionally the Second and Third Ceti Hussars have been placed in line for Robinson-class Transport support.â€
“Our forces are diminished but independent Brigades gain WarShip support!†Tarncred said shaking his head wondering what his nation was coming to and where the First Prince was leading them.
“None of your forces have been diminished.†Victor said getting annoyed “in fact I have given you permission to raise two additional units each and those units already raised can maintain their RCT status until combat losses take their tole. Once all your forces are to LCT status as per AFFS Guidelines." Victor stressed here was going to have to concede but one he was willing to "you may if you wish increase them back to RCT strength, but you will from your own pockets. Not from the AFFS funds the Quartermaster's Office, MIIO and DMI will all be watching where the appropriation of funds go." Victor warned. "And if such a built up unit needs to move you will hire the transport yourselves.†He said sternly “perhaps instead of worrying about your personal armies you should concentrate on spending money on the March Militias, they could very easily supplement an LCT in defence if their equipment and training was increased.†He suggested noticing Nathaniel Hasek nodding, he’d thought of that already, 'time for a new approach' Victor thought.
“Your Five LCTs could rotate through your marches conducting cadre duty with all the March militias building a far tighter defence of our nation instead of units becoming comfortable on important worlds.†He pointed out, "too often units are assigned to the same world for years on end only leaving for combat, and when they encounter terrain they were unfamiliar with they lose the initiative even in defence." Both Galen and Victor could see it, they had also seen how easily Clan clusters moved compared to the units of the AFFS and LCAF during the initial Clan invasion. Thoughts of a return to that way of thinking brought chills to Victor's heart he was in a position to make the AFFS prepared for the new way of operating and his Field Marshals were going to listen. Although none of the three men would leave New Avalon happy they were pleased enough to maintain some of their forces and that they had the authority to maintain their positions even if it meant spending a little more. For Victor he was content enough that the Field Marshals had taken his directives in, but he knew that the MIIO and DMI would be more busy in the future watching his own people's spending than their enemies unfortunately the Varnay Crisis had proven that one of the Federated Suns' greatest threats was itself.
Border Raid
Baltazar III, Timbuktu Province
Lyran Commonwealth
9th June 3085
The Marian Hegemony had caught the Lyran Commonwealth completely flatfooted by jumping into the Baltazar III system with a four hundred thousand ton WarShip something larger than anything anyone expected them to be able to field other than the Lola III-class Hanse which Caesar Katrina Ward had taken from Clan Ice Hellion’s remnant forces. This ship was nothing like the slick Star League-era vessel instead this craft was almost like a flying brick with little to distinguish it other than its obvious firepower. Constructed from materials taken from the Free Worlds League and locally sourced materials the WarShip was nowhere near as capable as some line WarShips of the Inner Sphere or the Clans. But, more importantly, it was a WarShip which currently was more than the Lyran Commonwealth had in the Baltazar III system.
On the ground things were going just as bad the defending Fifteenth Arcturan Guards were under heavy fire from multiple directions. Leutenant Katrina Allard was in the middle of everything and it wasn’t going well her BNDR-01D Bandersnatch was the last active Mech in her lance one of her lancemates was dead his cockpit cored by laser fire. The other two hadn't ejected nor had they communicated.
“This is Allard-9670, under heavy fire in grid fifty-two, reinforcements required.†She communicated as her seventy-five ton Mech was hit by a heavy autocannon. Torso twisting to the left she fired her left arm autocannon into a Marian Hunchback. “Repeat reinforcements required…†she began as the Hunchback turned its own torso bringing its autocannon to bear “oh hell, this is 9670 ejecting!†She screamed as she pulled the cords launching her ejector seat into the air as the air rushed past the Hunchback’s fire tore the remains of her Bandersnatch to pieces.
In the sky she could see Marian forces advancing throughout the area. The parachutes deployed above her and slowly the seat began its return towards the ground, which currently was probably the last place she wanted to be. Without a Mech she would be doing this on foot, as the seat landed with a thud, quickly unbuckling from the seat she opened up the back of the chair to retrieve her survival equipment finding only a laser pistol had survived her ejection. No medical supplies, no rations and no clothes. As situations went Katrina couldn't think of a worse situation she had ever been in now she had to rely on her training, she was however a Kell Hound in training and at heart. Darting into the nearby bushes she hid until nightfall watching as the Marians moved through her area she watched as Marian Ravager Assault Battle Armour followed by infantry.
Five days later Katrina escaped Marian controlled territory to a surprised Lyran infantry squad, she learned that Leutenant Luther Fisk had been killed in the fighting and that Colonel Butcher was badly injured but that the regiment was continuing to hold and the LCS Kevin Tamar, a Fox-class Corvette, and the LCS Durance, a Coventry-class Corvette, had arrived in system with the Fifth Alliance Guards RCT. For Katrina this conflict had not gone well she had lost her first BattleMech in combat without a single kill to her name.
Twelfth Star League Games
Star League Stadium
Solaris VII, Lyran Commonwealth
18th June 3085
The Twelfth Star League Games on Solaris VII kicks off at the Star League stadium. Unlike the year before where a Quickdraw carrying hand held Mech sized weaponry sponsored by Successor State R&D won the competition this year it is the duelist’s competition. MechWarrior Duncan Lassiter long term Solaris VII jock who had only recently returned to the world immediately headed the pack in his own customized Quickdraw known as Death Incarnate. Customized beyond anything the original designers had ever envisioned. Rebuilt from the ground up the Mech had its own customized skeleton, Light Engine and torso mounted cockpit, the head had been rebuilt with a skull head instead of a cockpit. The Mech was armed with a Hatchet, Dual Extended Range Large and Medium Lasers and Small Pulse lasers. Rounding up the Mech’s capabilities were jump jets and a targeting computer. Storming ahead and never giving up his lead Lassiter walked the competition and was crowned the new Star League Champion.
-
A quick update for July
Clan Snow Raven Territory
Lum, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
4th July 3085
While Solaris VII’s games are a show of skill and raw firepower for the entertainment of others, half a galaxy away on the Clan Homeworld of Lum there was fighting of a completely different type. On a world dominated by Clan Snow Raven for so long fighting had broken out on nearly every continent, in the air and in space. At the jump point Clan Snow Raven’s last Kigamure-class Pursuit Cruiser, the Lum, was preparing to leave the system with a group of JumpShips carrying more of Clan Snow Raven’s population and infrastructure to their new home in the Raven Alliance. Both Clan Steel Viper and Star Adder had taken issue with the Snow Raven’s continued retreat jumped their own naval assets into the system challenging the Snow Ravens to a Trial of Refusal over their obvious moves. As Clan Snow Raven WarShips square off against WarShips from both the Vipers and Adders two Snow Raven JumpShips are caught between them carrying nearly six thousand civilians unable to withstand a single hit from WarShip grade weapons the two ships are torn to pieces in the crossfire.
In the past such a massive loss would likely have brought the Clans back from the abyss however today things had gone too far and the battle continued despite the loss of life. In the end two Snow Raven vessels the Avalanche, a Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser, and the Kerensky’s Hope, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser, are both destroyed with four Steel Viper and two Star Adder vessels badly damaged. Fortunately for the Snow Ravens the Lum and the remaining JumpShips jumped clear of the system escaping the carnage but the fighting was far from over with further Raven WarShips arriving and neither the Steel Vipers or Star Adders retreating.
Starliner One
High Orbit, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
13th July 3085
The Starliner One the first ever civilized WarShip had entered and traveled slowly through the New Avalon system allowing the passengers to enjoy some of the facilities aboard the vessel in its leisurely cruise. Civilians mainly from the Star League Protectorate but also all over the Inner Sphere were aboard, as the ship traveled through the system the FSS New Avalon, a Whirlwind Block II-class Destroyer and the FSS Sandhurst, an Artemis-class Diplomatic Escort Vessel, joined them acting as escort providing the Starliner One’s passengers with close up sights of the two massive WarShips.
Reaching orbit of New Avalon they were met by the FSS Audacity, one of the Federated Suns newest First Prince Block II-class Battleships. Upgraded since the days of the refitted FSS Thunderchild the Audacity was the only operational vessel of its class, although two further ships were under construction or undergoing trials. So far the vessel had not faced an active combat situation however it was a very impressive display for the incoming Starliner One and a clear message to everyone aboard that the Star League would not be lording over any nation despite their sale of a WarShip to civilian authorities.
Border dispute
Clan Occupation Zones
Jade Falcon/Hell’s Horses
20th July 3085
Clan Jade Falcon blood a group of new clusters counter attacking against Clan Hell’s Horses continued assaults against the Inner Sphere. The Jade Falcon forces quickly retake Derf, Trell and Maxis Planet however on Romulus the Jade Falcons resort to orbital fire support from a vessel known as the Night Talon. This craft an upgraded Nightlord-class Battleship wiped out three clusters of Hell’s Horses ground troops along with nearly five thousand civilians on the planet’s surface in the bombardment that continues for nearly two hours. Accusations fly around the Clan Occupation Zones in reaction to the Jade Falcon’s use of naval assets against ground bound troops. Within Clan Jade Falcon the reactions of the warrior Caste begins to cause problems for Khan Marthe Pryde.
-
Into August 2 Halves for this one
Throne Room
Tikonov, Crucis March
Federated Suns
3rd August 3085
Flanked by officers of the First Davion Guards RCT Marshal Dayton Duvall marched into the Throne Room of Tikonov. Standing near the chair was Field Marshal Paul Bowman and several of his advisers. Marching to the centre of the room the three officers stooped and snapped to a salute Paul came to attention ahead of them marching their pose returning their salute “Sir, Marshal Dayton Duvall, The Strength of Alexander is at your service.†She said stepping to one side “Admiral Tabitha Steiner, commander of our Aerospace Regiment, and Captain Burton Davion.â€
“Welcome to Tikonov Marshal Duvall, we hope to make your stay on Tikonov a worthwhile one. Captain Davion, I am particularly glad to welcome you here, I believe the chair is yours Sire.†He said turning to the throne, Burton’s official title was Duke of Tikonov he knew it was aimed as a direct insult from his father to the Capellan Confederation who still claimed Tikonov and the surrounding worlds.â€
“Aff†Burton replied his face immediately reddening he had been with Clan Nova Cat for the last year and picked up several of their words “I am aware Field Marshal, but I am an officer of the Davion Guards first, the work you have done on this world has been admirable, I would not want to diminish that.†He replied politely refusing the chair, Marshal Duvall smiled impressed by his officer’s choice and decision.
“As you wish sire†Paul replied “Marshal Duvall, once your Regimental Combat Team is settled perhaps you and your officers would like to dine with me and the officers of the Tikonov Cossacks? An opportunity to meet the men and women you will be working with during your stay here?â€
“That sounds like a good idea Field Marshal, until then we will take our leave†Duvall replied snapping off another salute which Admiral Steiner and Captain Davion followed. Paul saluted all three before the three officers turned and marched from the room.
“The future of our nation†Paul said quietly from behind the throne a uniformed figure appeared his on off aide Marshal Galen Cox. “You think he will be ready when the time comes?â€
“The First Prince believes it is up to the Federated Suns to make sure he is you, me and everone else in between we are all to be part of his preparation.â€
“Galen, do you ever give straight answers nowadays?†Paul asked despite reverting from the persona of Jerrard Cranston Galen still acted more the personal aide of the First Prince than a true Field Marshal of the Federated Suns, remaining in the shadows more than in public even in his appointment as adviser to Paul Bowman's taking over as Tikonov Duke and Crucis March Field Marshal.
“It has been a long time since things were black and white where real answers can be given.†Galen answered “just ensure Burton is well cared for and things will be fine.
“I will treat him like he was my own flesh and blood†Paul said, considering his family history he was sure that was little encouragement for Galen but that was the way of the world “will I make you a place at this mean Galen?â€
“No, I am required on New Avalon, and Defiance, I will be back when I’m needed.â€
“You mean when you have more trouble to bring?†Paul asked looking at the doors at the still retreating Davion Guards officers “Galen, no answer?†He asked turning seeing the place where the Marshal had been standing was now empty “typical.â€
Tikonov, Crucis March
Federated Suns
5th August 3085
It hadn’t taken the First Davion Guards long to settle in on Tikonov, although the world had long been a Capellan Confederation holding, it was a friendly enough place. Burton without his name or title was a Captain pure and simple. Once his Company had been settled he took some personal time and had gone for a walk into the nearby town dressed in a simple Davion Guards utility uniform, during his time with the Nova Cats this had been a common practice and virtually no-one had taken a single interest in him. Tikonov was completely different first here in the Federated Suns he had a bodyguard unit that seemed to shadow him everywhere. Second was the massive amounts of people who wanted to see or speak to him. Honestly not wanting to upstage the local Tikonov leadership or speak out of turn which could cause issues for his father Burton had done what any solider behind enemy lines would do, escape-and-evade capture.
Diving down side streets Burton had quickly ditched his jacket in a dumpster and continued to move crossing over street after street. After several minutes he became aware that he was being shadowed by someone, not knowing if this was his eagle-eyed bodyguard or some local trouble makers Burton pushed on until reaching a dead end. Turning to retrace his steps he saw his shadows three men of Chinese decent with clear Triad tattoos on their face. “I do not want trouble with you.†He said clearly
“The Davion Guardsman doesn't want trouble with us? What do you think boys let him walk?†One of the men sneered
‘Good’ Burton though ‘they don’t know who I am’ he looked at all three men carefully as one continued to speak about the oppression of House Davion on Tikonov. He was sure he could take them in a fight even unarmed but that wasn't exactly his best option. He could see the headlines now “Day Two on Tikonov and Davion is already beating down its people†it wouldn't matter that it was self-defence. Instead Burton had other ideas launching himself forward he made a faint towards one of the men then dodged to the side and jumped into the air grabbing a half ladder. Using his upper body strength he pulled himself up the ladder onto the side of the wall “I do not want trouble†he repeated beginning to climb, the men began throwing things up at Burton but their aim was as bad as their threats and he was safe.
Climbing onto a half roof Burton was surprised to find an access door open, still wary about a second attack he entered into the dark corridor carefully carefully. “Nicely dealt with young prince†a female voice said from within, now he had someone who knew who he was to deal with, maybe going for a walk hadn't been his best plan.
“Thank you†Burton said cautiously walking forward, the small corridor opened up into a far larger room with several BattleMechs encased entirely in glass. Stepping out of the corridor onto a metal gantry Burton found the person who the voice belonged to or at least her well shaped rear. “Sorry, but where am I?†He asked carefully walking around her, her perfume was barely noticeable but her striking silver blue hair was immediately apparent as he stepped into the light.
“I am the curator of Tikonov’s best kept secret, the Earthwerks Museum†she said flamboyantly, he could tell she wasn't a Tikonov native but he had no idea where she was from. Stepping up beside her he could see she was nowhere near the age her silver hair would have suggested instead she was around his age with striking icy-blue eyes. Burton quietly wondered if she had any Steiner Blood in her.
“An impressive secret†Burton said respectfully looking out he could see the BattleMechs clearly, most were in poor condition do doubt due to age and neglect but the closest four were in near pristine condition all were of the same design. About nine metres tall they had a large cannon that ran the length of their right arm it looked like some sort of laser, while the torso was dominated by a large boxy missile rack which Burton guessed was a fifteen or twenty tube Long Range Missile system. Further down the torso there were further launch tubes for what could only be Short Range Missiles and other ports for laser emitters. Finally a set of machine guns dominated the right arm. Searching the design for an idea of what it could be Burton noticed the off centre cockpit which was almost perched on the left shoulder instead of on the torso. Thinking of only two such designs that had that particular design feature Burton grasped at the most logical one “is that an original Thunderbolt?†He asked if it was the Mech would have been nearly six hundred years old! It would have likely been worth more than half of the city.
“Good instincts, athletic and a quick mind, there is hope for you yet†she said “yes indeed the last one that I know of in existence.
“It must be worth…â€
“More than you can imagine but its place is here on Tikonov, it should be on display for all to see, unfortunately without the resources or funding to move it the people will probably never see it. The best I can do is keep this building with power and lights, and keep a little hope in my heart that one of these days the support will come to help.†She said not once taking her eyes off the Thunderbolt “but you young sire did not come here for a tale of a lost BattleMech in glass. Don’t worry I can get you away from the crowds and back to your base in one piece.†She said looking at him fully, she was a very beautiful woman; Burton remained silent watching his tongue. “Come with me†she said turning she walked along the gantry down some steps. Burton followed behind her by several steps carefully watching he wasn't being led into another Triad trap. Fortunately or unfortunately it was another trap but this time it was a friendly one. Around one of the corners three of Burton’s bodyguards stood. “Gentlemen, I think this is your lost Prince.†She said with a small giggle.
“Thank you Lady…†the bodyguard started but noticed a small shake of her head, she intended on keeping her identity a secret a little longer. “We will take care of him from here, sire Tikonov can be a dangerous place.â€
“Aff†Burton replied immediately then realized he had used the Clan reply. Too long within the Nova Cats as an ambassador “I noticed that†Burton said moving past his mistake neither the bodyguard nor the woman made any notice of it. “Milady I thank you for your assistance†he’d noticed her shaking her head and decided that right now wasn't the needed time to ask questions. “I hope things go well for your Mechs and to see you again sometime†he said leaving the room with the bodyguards.
“Thank you my Prince, I’m sure we’ll see each other again†she whispered watching him leave.
Welcome party
Ryan-Bowman Residence, Tikonov
Crucis March, Federated Suns
5th August 3085
That very night Burton and other members of the First Davion Guards had been invited to a get together at the Ryan-Bowman residence. Burton was the lowest rank present but his name had gotten him an invite the Ryan-Bowmans wouldn't have the heir to the throne not at their welcome party. Standing near the back of the Davion Guards group Marshal Dvall true to his officer “please remember you represent the Davion Guards, House Davion and me so no screw ups.†He ordered “Tikonov still has some leanings towards the Capellan Confederation even with the Bowmans back in charge so be careful and don’t take offence if someone says something out of turn. We are the professionals, I expect you all to act like it.†He warned his men and women most nodded or replied with a crisp “yes sir.†Standing at the back Burton thought they were lucky, they would be able to blend into the background, speak with the Tikonov Militia or Cossacks officers he was going to be stuck with Marshal Duvall and the Bowmans as their personal guest. “Davion, what are you still standing around for?†Duvall asked seeing the other officers break up and mingle with the other guests “I said mingle, I meant it.†He ordered smiling turning around walking off
“Aye sir†Burton said quietly walking off he made his way to food table, most people recognized him immediately there were bows, curt-says and salutes all the way to the table. Burton was glad to reach it and concentrate on something other than appearances. He grabbed a small place and some food for politeness along with a drink of the house punch before moving off to the side to watch the room. Marshal Dayton Duvall, Duke Bowman and two Tikonov Cossacks officers were locked in deep conversation near the main stage, other officers were mingling with the local nobility and officers freely, Burton was all alone. He had only recently joined the Davion Guards, after his extended spell in the Nova Cat’s Den with the Defiance Training Battalion; he didn't know many of the officers or even his commander very well.
“All alone at the ball†a familiar female voice asked from behind turning slowly Burton was surprised to find the same woman he had met this afternoon standing there dressed in a shoulder less silver/gold dress her hair was different from earlier gone was the silver colouring it was now a magnificent red, she wore far more make-up than she had earlier her red lips looked even brighter with her hair, but the eyes those beautiful icy-blue eyes.
“Everyone knows someone but me.†Burton replied smirking sadly it was the truth despite the humour in his voice.
“But you must know things about these people? They are after all yours to command with a simple work.†She said moving beside him “I’m sure you could have any woman, or any man, in this room with a single word.†She said smiling not looking directly at him but at other people.
“Women are enough trouble†Burton replied answering her unasked question “and I’m sure my name would get me in the door but I couldn't command anyone to do anything. Other than the title my father ensured that I am but a Captain, at least for now.†She giggled infectiously
“My Prince†she said in a low voice “trust me when I saw, your name may open a door but you wouldn't need to command anyone to do anything for you with the right words.†She said so only he could hear.
“If only I knew the right words†Burton said weakly, the woman responded with a loud laugh bringing looks from all around Burton could feel her arm on his. “What’s so funny?â€
“You just told me a very funny joke†she said continuing to smile playfully “and now we are going to dance across this room and out that door.†She said nodding her head towards an exit Burton lowered his plate and drink to the table “I hope you dance?â€
“I’m a little out of practice but, I’m a Davion, I’ll adapt.†He said offering his arm which she took gracefully all around the crowd began to part as the made their way to the centre of the floor.
Across the room Duke Paul Ryan-Bowman and Marshal Dayton Duvall watched as the two danced gracefully around the room. Burton Davion was no slouch on the dance floor a product of his upbringing within a royal household. “Captain Davion finally making an impression†Duvall said quietly, Victor Steiner-Davion had told him to treat Burton like any other junior officer so he rarely used his titles when addressing Burton. The young Captain seemed to enjoy the freedom he had been given and quite rightly so, soon enough he would never have a day to himself. Duvall noticed Bowman was watching the couple dance carefully “you know her Duke Bowman?â€
“You could say that, Marshal, she’s my cousin†he said Duvall chuckled out of relief, firstly Burton Davion’s first true event at a meeting and everyone can see he’s at ease, secondly he didn't have the family issues to worry about that Bowman obviously would have. The pair of youngsters continued to dance around the room, as the music came to a close they disappeared from the room past a pair of guards in ceremonial gear.
“I can have him recalled to base Duke Bowman?â€
“No let them have their peace, she has had enough to deal with recently, she’s a smart girl she won’t get into too much trouble.†Bowman said turning back to the other guests. Other dancers had followed the couples lead and began to dance around the room while other officers were clustered around Bowman and Duvall.
“Hopefully he is smart.†Duvall said quietly now feeling the worried one
Outside the air was warm; Tikonov was in its summer season although for a world that barely had a winter season it didn’t make much difference. His partner pulled Burton to the banister looking out over the capital city of Tikonov. Lights from the houses and the streets lighting up everything for the world to see “for someone who is out of practice you dance very well.†She said smiling leaning over the banister her arms crossed against it.
“I’m a Davion, I do everything well.†Burton said joining her
“You say that a lot young prince, as if you are trying to convince yourself of your abilities?†She said quietly
“Perhaps I am.†Burton said breathing deeply “by the time my father was my age now he had fought against Clan Jade Falcon and survived. He was in line to leading the greatest nation the Inner Sphere has seen since the fall of the Star League. He brought the entire Inner Sphere together to defeat the Clans, saved his nation from a devastating Civil War. And now he is possibly the most stable and secure of all the Succession Lords, perhaps on his way to being the greatest First Prince the Federated Suns has seen since Alexander himself.†Burton stressed what his father had done and what he could do.
“And you quietly wonder what Burton can do? What is there left for Burton to take care of? How can he prove his worth?†She said smiling “the pressures of parenthood. We can only do what we are capable of doing as Paul would say, the pressures other put onto you are their expectations your own expectations are what is important. Live your own life.â€
“Sounds like someone who knows?â€
“Perhaps not as badly as you do, my prince, but I know very well the pressures of a demanding parent. Which is why I am here and not on Achernar, I would rather be with friends and relatives than home with parents for my vacation, this is a time for relaxation and fun.†Burton nodded he’d noticed her accent before but couldn't place it. “Well fun for me at least, you get to enjoy some work.â€
“Work, training more like, I will at least know how to keep paperwork in order by the time I leave Tikonov.†Burton said slightly annoyed Tikonov may have Capellan sympathies but it wasn't as if this was a front-line battle post, if ever one of these appeared he was sure he was be far from it. “So how does a non-Tikonov native become involved in protecting a museum for Earthwerks? A corporation that is still quite active on Tikonov.†She laughed at his question
“Well that’s one of the fun things about this world, and this family you have been invited to meet, there are ways to get involved in many things. I became involved in that little project because of Paul’s niece Svetlana; she loves to play and loves to find things that others have missed. She sees that museum as a key to the lock that is Earthwerks. If she can keep it from prying eyes she hopes to use it as a bargaining chip in future negotiations for production.â€
“There are plenty Thunderbolts running around.â€
“Not only Thunderbolts are on the table†she said smiling broadly Burton didn't even try to follow her meaning business was one thing he planned to stay far from.
“So what do you do? You said this was your vacation spot, Quiaff?†Burton asked not even realizing what he had said until the word had left his mouth. Immediately he felt heat forming on his cheeks.
“Quiaff?†What is that? I know enough Russian to know its not that.â€
“It’s a clan word, it means ‘you agree’ or ‘your answer is yes’ I’m sorry after spend a year with them you pick up little things.†He tried to explain, to someone who hadn't spent time with the Clans it was probably a difficult thing to understand.
“Well I do agree†she said smiling “I’m on a break from DropShip training I was at Kathil Shipyards on a training exercise before that at the Warrior’s Hall on New Syrtis. For now a DropShip tomorrow a WarShip†she joked.
“We all have our dreams†Burton said quietly “and if an up and coming Prince was looking for a pilot who would I look for?â€
“Well, my prince" she said using the title sarcastically, if you were looking for a pilot you’d probably want a transport DropShip. The ships I want to fly don’t really have space for your Mech but if you wanted me it’s Leftenant Pamela Marie Achernar.†She said throwing him a quick salute; she was out of uniform so there was no real need for formality.
“I’ll have to keep an eye out.â€
“And if I get transferred to transport duty I’ll know who to blame.†She said half jokingly. The two spent the next couple of hours attached at the hip first on the balcony before returning to the party where they danced and spoke to important Tikonov locals throughout the night. By the next morning the two were the talk of the world as people linked the two romantically despite no real evidence of the sort.
Sandhurst Parade Grounds
England, Terra
Star League Protectorate
8th August 3085
Looking over the thirty-four identical BattleMechs assembled in front of him General Peter McGillaray smiled. His unit the First Royal ComGuard Regiment would maybe get two of the Mechs if he was lucky. Built on a heavy chassis with all energy weapons the PRF-1 Prefect was the prefect patrol and raiding Mech, built on Irian for the SLDF the Battalion was short two Mechs with McGillary planned to find out where they were “Miss Burgess I’d like to know where your final two Mechs are?â€
“Sorry General, the last two showed problems during the last phase of testing. The engineers promise that future batches will be the full Battalion in strength.†Olivia Burgess the Irian Corporation representative explained.
“And the last two Mechs of this Battalion, will we ever receive them?â€
“That I cannot answer General, but what I can say is that if you do not receive them you will not be charged.â€
“I would hope not Miss Burgess; the Star League went to much expense going to your Corporation instead of securing manufacturing within the Star League.†McGillaray reminded her.
“So you have reminded me several times General, but I believe most of your production facilities already have orders that will keep you busy for the next ten years. Irian is the most capable of the large production firms capable of satisfying this order; all the other member states of the Inner Sphere are working on their own Armed Forces. Irian on the other hand is a private corporation that the Marik Commonwealth cannot overtax.â€
“Send us the BattleMechs to the quantity we require and there will be no trouble.†McGillaray warned looking over the assembled Mechs once more, even two Mechs down they were a formidable force to reinforce the SLDF.
-
Muster Hall
AFFS Training Base, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
16th August 3085
The room was abuzz as members of the First Defiance Training Battalion mustered as ordered in the Hall on Defiance. It had been over a year since they were in this together after being assigned to Prince Burton Davion during his time within the Nova Cat’s Den as an ambassador. Now they nerviously waited to find out what the results of their mission had been. Normally a Training Battalion could last as long as three years however after a year out of the Federated Suns many of them were ready for some R&R none had taken any leave and had a year of wages to spend. The commander of the unit Colonel Drake McMillian entered the room wearing a standard AFFS duty uniform.
“ATTEN-SION!†someone called out and everyone saluted their commander. He had commanded them throughout their time in the Nova Cat’s Den despite the lofty position Burton Davion had held as Prince and Ambassador to the Clansmen who occupied the pirate state.
“At ease!†The Colonel called out so all could hear looking along the lines of warriors in front of him. Thirty-eight MechWarriors and seventeen techs in the room stood waiting for his next words “Ladies and Gentlemen, in this hand I hold a letter from the Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner.†He said raising his left arm “in this hand I hold a letter from Captain Burton Davion, of the First Davion Guards RCT, our trip was good for some?†He said smirking everyone had known Burton would move on from the training Battalion to greater things, the First Davion Guards was the perfect unit for the heir to the Federated Suns. “I will read the words of Prince Davion first†he said unraveling the piece of paper. “To the members of the First Defiance Training Battalion, it was an honour to serve with you on a mission important to the future of the Federated Suns and I am proud to call you my friends.†McMillian started “you all exemplified the attitude and dedication to the Federated Suns and its First Prince that makes our nation truly great. I thank you and look forward to watching your careers move from strength-to-strength. Sincerely Captain Burton Davion†McMillian finished looking up “high praise from our Prince†he declared “and you deserve it, he is not the only one who is truly proud of this unit’s actions during its time within Clan territory. You all preformed very admirably.†He said raising the second piece of paper unfolding it “this is perhaps a more important notice†he said pausing smiling broadly “From Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner to the MechWarriors and Technicians of the First Defiance Training Battalion from reading reports filed by you, your commanding officer and by Prince Burton Davion I want to congratulate you all for your performances within the Nova Cat’s Den. The Training Battalion concept was one created by Hanse Davion, The Fox’s personal project; you have proven that his belief in warriors who have fought their way into the AFFS was the correct one. I hear-by grant promotion of a single grade in rank and pay to all members of the First Defiance Training Battalion and grant you the assignment of your choice, after returning from you extended personal leave. Regards Reinhart Steiner†McMillian finished looking up at the beaming faces of his unit Drake McMillian felt very proud his eyes moist with un-shed tears. “So ladies and gentlemen, I’ll give you one last order. Dis-missed!†He ordered the entire Battaion erupted into cheers, hugs and back slaps they would probably never come across as close a nit unit again but this was their time to enjoy. Their actions had gotten them their rewards and McMillian was very proud he knew that when he returned to duty he would have different cadets to command and likely new staff, only his Senior Tech and Senior NCO would stay the rest would change and it would all start again. But for now he allowed himself to enjoy the moment and what they had achieved.
Border Expansion
Rim Association
Former Free Worlds League
21st August 3085
With the former Nova Cat Clansmen, the Liger Warriors settled into their new home the Periphery Free Worlds League nation begins looking at the independent worlds around it with envious eyes. Forming strike teams the Rim Association chooses to act on its desires with mostly formed around a single Liger Warriors detachment supported by conventional militia and infantry forces drawn from the Rim Association’s home built forces.
Within the space of a week four worlds formerly independent members of the Free Worlds League cut off when the central government fell come under the management of the Rim Association. In a series of raids in force the Rim Association Strike Teams land on and secure government buildings on Romita, Goth Khakar, Corbeanka and Prato. Although the worlds do not see any major changes in their citizens lives the worlds do pay a tax to the government of the Rim Association and their defence forces fall under the Rim Association Armed Forces Command. For the most part these worlds don’t resist openly against the Rim Association’s arrival although there is some peaceful protests on Goth Khakar which pass without incident.
Kell Training Grounds
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre,
Lyran Commonwealth
24th August 3085
After years of redevelopment Clan Wolf (in-Exile) had almost completely rebuilt their Arctic Wolf OmniMech. Faster the medium OmniMech was far closer related to the standard Arctic Wolf BattleMech the Mech was mainly based around a missile armament although being an OmniMech it could carry any weapon available to the Clans or the Inner Sphere. The new OmniMech is welcomed into the small Wolf (in-Exile) Touman, in a show of the ongoing alliance between Clan Wolf (in-Exile) and the Kell Hounds an Arctic Wolf II is gifted to the Kell Hounds named the "Kell’s Promise" by Colonel Daniel Allard it is attached to his Regiment Command Unit.
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Trial of Position
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
3rd September 3085
The final salvo flew and the targeted Mech fell to the ground confirming Sonja Nova Cat as a Star Captain within Clan Nova Cat once more. There should have been no reason for a Trial but because of her time away from the Clan held in enemy hands without a chance to keep her skills current she had been challenged by several warriors on her return to the Nova Cat’s Den. After a period of recovery Sonja had agreed to retake her Trial of Position which she had just won and been confirmed once more as a Clan warrior. Inside herself Sonja was proud to once more be a warrior of the Nova Cats she knew her father, her Khan, would feel the same despite not being present but she also knew her heart belonged doing something else.
Independent World
Tapachulo, Former Free Worlds League
8th September 3085
Given the recent aggressiveness of the Rim Association’s recent aggressiveness there was widespread fear on independent worlds of the former Free Worlds League. On the small barely inhabited world of Tapachulo near the Regulan Fiefs they were less worried their planet was far from the Rim Association and other than a small mining operation they had little to offer anyone.
It was for that reason alone that everyone was surprised when the world found itself under attack from space in the form of a series of massive explosions that landed within one hundred kilometres of the planet’s main settlement in nearly a perfect circle. No-one was hurt and other than a few new craters on the planet’s surface there was little changed for the inhabitants but fear is a greater motivator to change as a result within a week of the “attack†the world petitions to join the Regulan Feifs despite the additional taxes it will cost them.
For the Regulans it is one more world to add to their territory and a successful trial run of their new Regulus-class Frigates Gibson and Clipperton. Fitted with spinal mounted light mass drivers the two vessels had jumped into the Tapachulo system and launched kinetic weapons at the planet’s surface intentionally not looking to cause damage. The Regulus-class was designed around the mass driver and to be a weapon of fear as well as power and pride for the Regulan Feifs, the first mission for the two vessels is classified at the highest levels on Regulus.
 
Draconis Combine Embassy
Tokyo, Japan
Terra, Star League Protectorate
16th September 3085
Entering the Embassy Duke Kitsune Kurita felt like like he had been transported back to the Draconis Combine everything of the Embassy’s main entrance chamber reminded him of home. It suited him just well Japan was the ancestral home of the Kurita family; he was perhaps closer to his routes here than he had ever been. Given his dual Kurita-Davion heritage here was a better place for him than out in the Inner Sphere where people would likely try to make him a pawn in political games. Instead he would remain here as the Draconis Combine’s Ambassador to the Star League Defence Force, he would serve his nation from afar without causing any issue or trouble for them.
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Draconis Combine staging area
Yamarovka, Irece Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
22nd September 3085
Yamarovka was a backwater world of the Draconis Combine, there was little to call out about the world except that it was on the Draconis Combine/Clan Ghost Bear border and it was close to the Sea Fox holds on Itabiana. It was also quite close to the ruined former capital of Luthien, as a result Coordinator Vincent Kurita had chosen to come here during his tour of the Ghost Bear border.
“We have done much to improve security and our response to defend this planet.†The commander of the First Ghost Regiment said as they walked around the base. Suddenly there were sirens all around and a pair of Ryoken KU OmniMechs charged past accelerating as they moved. The OmniMech was a recent addition to Luthien Armour Works production lines based on the the Clan Ryoken but built with Inner Sphere technology. “Sire we need to get you to bunkerâ€
Entering the underground command bunker Vincent Kurita was led to the main room which was dominated by a large map table showing two fast moving red icons towards a small cluster of blue icons. “What is it?†The Coordinator asked looking at the map.
“An unauthorized DropShip landing in Sector Seventy-three, sire, MechWarriors Tami Moto and Christina Cross are attending to investigate.†Naming the pilots of the two Mechs that had ran past the Coordinator, two female MechWarriors surprised female warriors were more common in the Combine’s regiments now than in the past but still two to the same duty, Vincent then he remembered this was one of the Ghost Regiments nothing common about it.
“You get landings such as this often?†Vincent asked
“Sometimes it’s the Clans other times its… elements we do not like to advertise their movements.†The commander said carefully he knew more about what he was saying but Vincent chose not to push it further. The Ghost Regiments had been created from the Draconis Combine’s criminal underworld by his grandfather, for the last half century they had served the DCMS with distinction and shown their loyalty, but despite the loyalty shown they still held some links to their criminal underground origin. “We haven’t detected any Clan presence so that only leaves the other.â€
“Ranger One to base, we have a group of Buffalo hover trucks unloading cargo from a Buccaneer-class DropShip.†One of the MechWarriors reported Vincent could hear she was breathing heavily likely moving her Mech quickly. “No weapons present, Ranger Two is closing on targets. We are identifying as Ghost Regiment units…†she reported Vincent watched as one of the Mechs closed on the DropShip.
“Base, Ranger Two, surrender message from the DropShip. Moving to secure, we’re going to need some infantry to secure prisoners.†The other pilot said as one of the icons on the map moved forward.
“Ranger Two from base, we have two APC en route, eta six minutes…†The controller reported but was broken off as four of the blue icons accelerated away from the DropShip.
“Ranger One to base, we have four runners heading for the base in pursuit. Ranger Two, secure that DropShip and both remaining Buffalos!â€
“Confirmed†the other pilot said as Ranger One accelerated after the four hovercraft that were heading directly for the base.
“There after me†Vincent said quietly, he knew each Buffalo could carry about fifteen to twenty tons of cargo or several infantry platoons of infantry. Someone was looking to eliminate the Coordinator of the Draconis Combine.
“We should be secure here sire, and we have their DropShip we can track them down†the commander said quietly Vincent nodded but first they had to eliminate the four Buffalos speeding towards the base. One of the blue icons representing the Buffalos suddenly disappeared.
“Range One, one target down, these guys are not making any evasive moves I’m not sure if there is anyone even on them.†Tami Moto reported as her Ryoken chased down the remaining three Buffalos. Behind her position there was suddenly a massive explosion throwing rocks into the air “massive explosion Ranger Two’s position, Ranger Two report!†She shouted as the Ryoken continued to chase down the remaining hovercraft. “Ranger Two†she called as the icon representing Ranger Two disappeared from the map “Ranger Two!†Tami Moto screamed but still no response as she targeted and destroyed the second Buffalo.
“Base to Range One, Ranger Two and DropShip are both off scope, observers from base believe a sub-nuclear detonation.†The controller said at least the detonation was not on a nuclear scale.
“Understood†the pilot replied continuing her pursuit of the remaining two vehicles they were now within six kilometres of the base and closing rapidly.
“Tai-sa, the Mechbay doors have been locked closed we cannot deploy any further forces!†One of the other technicians reported the First Ghost Regiment’s commander rushed out of the room.
“Can this facility withstand that kind of blast?â€
“Unlikelyâ€
“Then I think I will go somewhere with a view, thank you for your service to your people and your nation.†He said heading up to the main deck of the control tower looking across past the perimeter towards where the DropShip had landed. He could see what was left of the explosion and smoke from the fires being thrown into the air. Across the bases courtyard Vincent could see engineers trying to open the Mechbay doors, two of the Mechs were trying to pull the massive doors open from the inside. Even from his position Vincent knew it would be all over before the remaining two Buffalos arrived. There was another explosion as Tami Moto eliminated one more of the remaining hovercraft. Vincent looked up and could see the last of the hovercraft now moving at high speed towards the base, the machine guns and short range missiles mounted in the towers around the base were trying to track the last vehicle but there were having no luck. The Ryoken of Ranger One appeared a small distance behind the hovercraft there was no guarantee she would catch the speeding vehicle. Weapons fire from the towers finally found the Buffalo and began to tear into the hovercraft’s lightly armoured hide but at the speed it was moving there was little chance of them stopping the vehicle now its kinetic energy would carry it into the command tower.
As the hovercraft continued to close Vincent looked to the sky “Uncle it will be your time again.†He whispered to his Uncle Minoru Kurtia, if Vincent fell the Warlord of Pesht would be the logical choice. Suddenly the Ryoken of Ranger One appeared leaping through the air on jump jets the speeds involved were something to behold as the fifty-five ton Mech flew through the air smashing into one hundred ton hovercraft. One foot of the OmniMech went straight through the roof of the lightly armoured hovercraft as the rest of the Mech came crashing down on the craft one of the Ryoken’s lasers fired tearing through the driving compartment of the hovercraft.
Everything happened quickly as ammunition stored aboard the Mech or aboard the hovercraft cooked off and exploded the two intertwined vehicles flew through the air smashing into the ground several times before coming to rest less than three hundred metres from Vincent’s position. “But not today†he whispered to the air before turning on his bodyguards “get a medical team to that Mech, I want that pilot saved!†He shouted two of the four bodyguards ran off to assemble the teams as Vincent turned back to the downed OmniMech and mangled vehicle, someone had tried to kill him today, they had killed at least one MechWarrior, they would pay the price for their actions.
Intensive Care Unit, Military Medical Facility
Yamarovka, Irece Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
29th September 3085
There was pain to her left from her shoulder to her foot but at least she felt something, which was more than she had expected before launching her OmniMech into the air. Tami Moto opened her eyes slowly and was immediately aware of being in a room with white walls and there being someone sitting in the chair beside the bed. From what Tami could make out he was a very young man probably younger than her own twenty-two years, he wore a military uniform of the DCMS but with no medals or any rank insignia. “Welcome back to the land of the living MechWarrior.â€
“I succeeded?†She whispered, her lips were dry as the words struggled out. The man reached for a small glass and gently tipped water into her mouth.
“You did, I thank you†he said his voice was reassuring despite his young age.
“Did the Coordinator survive?â€
“Yes he did" the individual said before pausing Tami couldn't quite focus on him "he is very grateful" he continued "it appears to be the Black Dragons they have returned to scourge our worlds.â€
“What about MechWarrior Cross?â€
“She unfortunately died in the blast that destroyed the DropShip and consumed her OmniMech.†He said continuing “MechWarrior you paid a great price…â€
“The Mech is replaceable I’m sure LAW has already built several more since I was unconscious.†She said not understanding, she did her duty there was nothing else for it.
“Not just that…†he said quietly looking down she followed his gaze and saw where he was looking her lower arm and hand on her left side were completely missing and the whole limb was wrapped extensively. “Unfortunately the damage was too severe for it to be saved.†He continued but Tami felt numb, being a MechWarrior had got her out of the gang life, now what was she. “The Coordinator has arranged for you to be flown to a medical facility on Dieron, there you will receive more extensive treatment. From what the doctors say your nerve endings were not badly damaged you should be able to take an artificial limb. With the correct treatment and physio-therapy you should be able to pilot a Mech again.†He explained
“I’ll never be able to afford such things, the transport to Dieron alone would cost more than I make in a year?â€
“I can guarantee, every price incurred will be paid for by House Kurtia, you will receive the best care possible. I promise you that.†He said very sure of the Coordinator’s intentions “now you must rest, do not worry, everything will be taken care of.†He said rising from his chair leaving the room, Tami looked at her arm then looked away disgusted by what she saw, she had donw her duty which was all that mattered.
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First Annual Race of Noisiel
Southern Continent, Noisiel
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd October 3085
On screens broadcast across Noisel Duke Michael Alextep spoke at the beginning of the first ever BattleMech Race of Noisiel. “Ladies and Gentlemen be prepared for a grand display of piloting skill and weapons marksmanship. There are twelve competitors within this race each commanding the power of an Assault BattleMech. Their goal is to reach the finish line before all others, but they will have to contend with the boiling plains†he said as a camera panned over a desolate region “the Triplet Rivers of Noisiel†the camera image now changed to show three rapidly moving rivers converging into a larger more potent river “and the specially built towns of Alextep Major and Alextep Minor†he announced the cameras showing dozens of buildings arranged in the pattern of two disorganized towns, these buildings were not real homes or businesses instead built for the crowds enjoyment. “Like the games of Solaris there is one obstacle they will all have to face every step of the way – Each other – none of the weapons of these games have been disabled everyone is able to attack each other but warriors be warned if you decide to remain here and fight very soon your last obstacle will arrive†The Duke said as from behind him on the camera two massive hulking Battle Armour suits walked into camera shot “Allow me to introduce The Gorillas!†He said both suits were the same painted black and grey they were both built like the massive Terran primates they were named after but both hands ended with Battle Claws capable of tearing apart BattleMech levels of armour while their mounted machine guns and anti-personnel weapons could worry warriors further. The Duke had hired the Battle Armour Regiment known by the same name as their unique Battle Armour suit specifically to ensure the race did not turn into a standing battle, they were under orders to keep the battle moving forward towards the exit threatening the Mechs but only taking them out if they threatened the Battle Armour troopers directly.
On the starting line was twelve Assault BattleMechs from around the Inner Sphere over one thousand tons of armoured giants each Mech was about thirty metres apart. Any military unit in the entire Inner Sphere would be overjoyed to have in their TO&E first was long time king of the assault class a recent model AS7-S2 Atlas, beside it was an eighty-five ton Black Watch OmniMech produced on Northwind, next a Combine built Mauler, then a Liao built Emperor which was followed by a pair of Lyran built Mechs a one hundred ton Fafnir and a ninety-five ton Hauptmann OmniMech. Next was a Word of Blake era Grand Crusader followed by a Star League manufactured ninety-five ton Highlander BattleMech. Beside the Grand Crusader was a trio of Federated Suns designs an eighty-five ton Hanse BattleMech, a ninty-five ton Sagittaire and an eighty-five ton Templar OmniMech. Finally there was an eighty-five ton Zeus an assault Mech that was as Lyran as any other in the world.
“Ladies and gentlemen you all do the Alextep family honour by your attendance today. I wish you all the best of luck†Duke Alextep said into the communications circuit. Raising his hand to the control switch he changed the controls and pressed the fire button. All around the starting line fireworks went off signifying the start of the race. Almost immediately the Highlander turned on the Grand Crusader and fired a salvo of medium pulse laser and short range missile fire into the Mech. The Templar, Hanse and Zeus all accelerated quickly ahead of the others using their superior speed to gain an advantage straight away, a double Heavy Gauss Rifle from the stationary Fafnir tore apart the Hanse blowing through the rear armour of the eighty-five ton BattleMech. Immediately the Mech fell forward smashing into the ground face first down and probably out.
Leaping into the air and to the right the Highlander began to make some distance between the others with the damaged Grand Crusader trying to follow it. The Sagittaire appeared to completely disappear as it activated its Void Signature System, the adaptive armour system mimicking the surroundings behind it. The Atlas completely ignoring all others charged forward trying to escape the bloodbath of the beginning quickly the Mech was caught by the Zeus which engaged it with LRM and laser fire, the larger Mech shrugging off most of the damage from the weapons fire.
Still standing where it had started the Fafnir twisted its torso like a standing turret and fired two more Heavy Gauss Rifle slugs into its new target this time the already damaged Grand Crusader. The other one hundred ton Mech chasing down the still jumping Highlander took one slug in the arm but the second went high and missed. Turning the BattleMech the Fafnir pilot lined up two more shots ready to make the killing blow unfortunately the pilot was not paying attention to the group of Battle Armour that had joined the race. Four Gorilla suits swarmed the Fafnir causing the pilot far more trouble than the other BattleMechs. Elsewhere a squad of Elemental Battle Armour suits had reached the downed Hanse and secured the downed assault BattleMech.
Far ahead of these actions the Highlander, Templar, Atlas, Hauptmann, Zeus, Black Watch and Sagittaire had reached the Triplet Rivers. The three Jump Jet equipped Mechs, the Highlander, Templar and Sagittaire, all launched into the air crossing the first river as the Atlas, Hauptmann, Black Watch and Zeus waded into the water. Seeing that their opponents were gaining ground on them the Black Watch raised its arm and fired its arm mounted assault Ultra Autocannon into the side of the Hauptmann. At the same time the pilot made a physical attack with its arm mounted retractable blade crashing down on the Zeus severing one of the Mech’s arms.
This brief combat had slowed the leaders slightly the Emperor, Mauler and Grand Crusader all reached the water. The Emperor was a jump jet equipped Mech launching into the air while the Grand Crusader waded into the water firing weapons at the other engaged Mechs. The Mauler stood on the edge of the water firing autocannon and particle cannon fire into its opponents targeting first the Black Watch and then the Hauptmann. The two other pilots partially submerged by water were harder to hit but the Mauler was still an easy target. Both Black Watch and Hauptmann pilots turned on the Mauler with autocannon, gauss rifle and plasma rifle fire, the massive amount of fire on one target was too much even for the Mauler pilot to handle. Staggering backwards the Mech fell to the ground disabled at least for now.
Up ahead the initial jumping group of Mechs continued to pull out a lead over the others crossing the third river they all broke into a run. So far all three had avoided firing at each other keeping this as a clean race. In the middle river the Grand Crusader and Emperor pilots engaged in a titanic dual as one pilot crossed the others path. The lighter Emperor coming off worse than the larger Word of Blake design as the two pilots seemed to forget they were in a race.
Pulling his Mech back to its feet the Mauler pilot began to wade into the water chasing the other Mechs it had fallen behind the others by a fair margin. As the Mech reached the bottom of the river Battle Armour troopers of the Gorillas swarmed the Mauler, the Mech pilot obviously not experienced to Battle Armour attacks panicked and ejected from his Mech reducing the active Mechs to nine.
The field started to spread out a bit as the jump jet equipped Mechs who had led from the start reached the forested area. The Atlas, Hauptman and Zeus waded out of the water followed by the Black Watch. Finally the Emperor and Grand Crusader exited the water still fighting their own battle. Around them Battle Armour suits caught up with the two dueling Mechs and swarmed them both bringing down two more of the racers. The Highlander, Sagittaire and Templar began to wade through the trees smashing their way clear using their jump jets to clear some of the smaller trees but for the most part they were restricted to the ground allowing the chasing pack to catch up with them firing weapons as they arrived.
Weapons being discharged in a forested area led to one thing as stray weapons fire smashed into the trees a small fire spawned many others as the entire forest began to burn. Each of the Mechs turned their thoughts away from the race and their individual duels to survival as the fire raised the temperature around them rapidly. Fire and heat were deadly enemies to hot running BattleMechs, with the fire spreading throughout the forested area there was a real danger none of the pilots would escape with their lives.
With a real danger of none of his competitors escaping the fire Duke Alextep deployed three Pion-Laurier Lama-Deux Firefighter VTOL aircraft. Between them the three aircraft dumped nearly forty tons of fire retardant materials on the wooded area coating the Mechs and the trees obscuring almost the entire area in smoke as the fires continued to rage. Staggering clear of the fire the Highlander followed by the Atlas, Templar and Zeus moved into the open and raced away from the forest. Their armour burned and battered none of the pilots seemed interested in fighting instead they continued to run. Behind them the Hauptmann, Black Watch and Sagittaire cleared the burning forests as the Pion-Laurier Lama-Deux Firefighter VTOL aircraft made a second run against the woods, coated in a second run of fire retardant materials the the Hauptmann pilot seemed to have lost all interest in racing instead shooting its Gauss rifle and missiles into the back of the Zeus knocking the lightest Mech of the leading group to the ground. The Black Watch was barely operational its autocannon fused by the fire, it ammunition exploded gutting most of its left side only the OmniMech’s CASE had saved the Mech. The Sagittaire Void Signature System burned out by the fire was still the most operational of the three charged forward chasing the leading pack. As the Hauptmann pilot aimed a shot at the Sagittaire’s back the Mech was swarmed by Elemental Battle Armour forces from the Gorillas. Behind the OmniMech the almost destroyed Black Watch OmniMech surrendered to a group of Gray Death Strike Battle Armour suits eliminating two more competitors to the race.
Ahead the leading Highlander, Templar and Atlas reached the urban grounds of Alextep Minor, the first of two mock towns. Behind them the Zeus pilot had gotten his Mech back onto its feet and was chasing them down the pack while the last Mech, the Sagittaire, was labouring along behind. Reaching the town the Atlas pilot employed the “brute force†approach slamming into the small buildings forcing its way through. It was a spectacular display with no chance of civilian casualties but it was also very slow. The Highlander used its jump jets to clear the first couple of buildings while the Templar pilot avoiding using its own jump jets dodged the buildings entering the streets. All three Mechs engaged each other and the buildings with sporadic weapons fire but for the most part the pilots concentrated on the race. Next into the town the Zeus tried to follow the path of the Atlas ahead of it instead ran straight into a Heavy Gauss Rifle slug and several laser blasts, the lighter eighty ton Zeus took a beating as it staggered into a building. Last but not least the Sagittaire followed closely by six Battle Armour squads reached the town. The MechWarrior tried to follow the Highlander’s path using its jump jets but one of the jets had been damaged by the fire causing it to miss-fire. The Mech spiraled into a building smashing through the brick building losing an arm as it crashed to a rest. As Battle Armour swarmed the ninety-five ton Mech the MechWarrior realized the game was up and surrendered before their Mech was totally destroyed.
The Templar blasted its way clear of the town using its assault autocannon as it continued to race. The Atlas behind it smashed what was left of the last building in its own path of destruction as it also cleared the small mock up town. Finally the half destroyed Zeus followed the other three Mechs clearing the town, the lightest of the three Mechs still racing fired its last functioning weapon a Defiance 1001 Extended Range Particle Cannon catching the Templar in the back staggering the Omnimech. Surprisingly it was the Atlas, not the Templar, which turned and finished off the Zeus with a Heavy Gauss Rifle shot to the centre torso; the gauss slug penetrated the armour and smashed the fusion engine cradled below. Containment failure followed the pilot’s ejection rapidly as the BattleMech’s beating heart consumed it in fire.
The remaining three Mechs staggered into Alextep Major the mocked up buildings were too large to be jumped over so all three Mechs were restricted to a ground race. Darting through the criss-crossed streets the three Mechs engaged in combat as they dueled for position. Because of damage taken from the fire and from the Zeus attack the Templar’s ground speed was restricted putting the lighter Mech at a disadvantage over the other two. As they cleared the mock city’s last building they were lined up Highlander, Atlas and Templar. Still fighting all three continued on the last leg of the race low on ammunition the three Mechs were restricted to their laser weapons putting the Atlas in the fore with its twin Extended Range Large Lasers.
Wanting a pure Mech race until the end Duke Alextep contacted Colonel Evilauthor, commander of the Gorillas, and ordered the mercenary commander to keep his Battle Armour troops within the Alextep Major settlement. As the three MechWarriors pulled away from the mock city they approached the finish line in close formation all damaged too much to fire their weapons the Mechs just ran towards the end none able to out pace the other.
To screaming crowds the HGN-641-X-2 Highlander piloted by MechWarrior Renee Walker crosses the finish line just ahead of the Templar and Atlas which were engaged in a running fist battle until the end to claim second place. With a successful race completed and a winner rewarded Duke Michael Alextep announces that next year he would repeat the event and announces that Colonel Evilauthor had agreed for his Gorilla Regiment to remain stationed on Noisiel as a security force to support the local militia, to help construction crews make the course even more interesting and as Guardians for the next years games.
Inspired by a Tactical Challenge posted by Evilauthor so it get's its own post.
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Throne Room, Davion Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th October 3085
Standing near his family’s throne dressed in the uniform of a Federated Suns Marshal of Armies First Prince Victor Ian Steiner Davion could not feel anything other than pride. His father had always said “Pride comes before a fall, watch for it†but today it didn’t matter. Marching into the room dressed in his own uniform was his first born son Burton Davion; the almost new Captain insignia clear for all to see as were the neat row of medals on his uniform.
Stopping short of the steps leading to the throne Burton snapped to a parade stance salute “Captain Burton Davion reporting as requested, sire!†He said crisply as if there was an entire court stood watching him. Burying his pride for a moment Victor came to his own parade stance straightening his legs and his back and returned the salute.
“Welcome to New Avalon Captain†Victor said “at ease†he ordered. Burton relaxed slightly but remained standing at attention as if on parade review. “How is your assignment on Tikonov?â€
“Interesting†Burton replied crisply, so far he had exercised patrolled and drilled with and against the First Tikonov Cossacks RCT and they had proven to be his equal. The First Davion Guards were overall showing they were better in many ways but the Cossacks had been very well trained. Burton had also spent a near stupid amount of time with Countess Pamela Marie Achernar during his time there before being recalled to New Avalon, he also knew that since his recall Pamela had been recalled to her training on Kathil and he had no idea when they would see each other again. He knew that his father would know all about both.
“Well I am sorry for taking you away from assignment. This is not purely a social visit†Victor warned “during your time with Clan Nova Cat I believe you encountered some Snow Raven forces?â€
“Aff†Burton replied immediately feeling heat rise in his cheeks “I mean yes sir, I did.†He said quickly correcting his mistake.
“The Snow Raven’s have approached us with an offer.†Victor said coming down the steps to the same level of his son. Victor was actually slightly shorter than his son, for which the First Prince was quite happy. Although it had never bothered Victor he knew there were dozens if not hundreds of jokes aimed at “the little prince†one thing he was glad his son would not have to endure. “When they joined with the Outworlds Alliance the Snow Ravens took four Federated Suns worlds they have offered them back to our realm.â€
“In exchange for?†Burton asked his father knowing from experience that the Clans gave away nothing for free.
“Well that is the question†Victor answered “they asked to speak with us privately travelling here secretly using civilian vessels, and they asked to speak with you.â€
“Me… why, I haven’t had any dealings with the Snow Ravens I am surprised they even know my name.â€
“Well let that be your first lesson, never be surprised about what your enemy knows.†Victor said knowingly he’d been where his son was “perhaps the Snow Raven you encountered with the Nova Cats?â€
“Sterling†Burton said her name for the first time out loud in ages immediately her face came to mind. “She was just a Colonel when we last me, what kind of sway would she have?â€
“Well we are about to find out†Victor stated turning towards the left hand side door off the Throne Room Burton followed closely. Into the East Wing of the Davion Palace they entered a small group of rooms where three members of the Snow Raven Clan stood in the centre there was a tall woman with long dark hair highlighted with a blonde streak at the front. She looked far different from the last time Burton had seen her he also noticed different rank insignia on her collar from the last time he had seen her. “Welcome to New Avalon†Victor greeted “you wished to speak with us, Quiaff?†Victor asked using the language of the Clans, he could see the disgust on the Clan warriors faces they remembered Victor Ian Steiner-Davion from the Clan War. They remembered how he challenged them all to a Trial of Refusal and how he defeated the Crusader Clans in Battle against the Coalition forces led by Victor, a Coalition that had seen the rebirth of the Star League Defence Force which now controlled Terra and had reopened Unity City things that the Clans aspired to.
“Aff, Prince Victor†Sterling said intentionally not using his full title or surname. “Prince Burton, it is good to see you again, I wish to thank you because of your actions I am now a Galaxy Commander within the Snow Raven Clan. A position that has allowed me to come here in the stead of my Khan, and has enabled me to thank you in person.â€
“I did my duty, which I believe you are here for?†Burton asked not pushing to use the Clan interrogative like his father had, stepping slightly back Victor allowed his son to take the lead again feeling that thing his father had warned him of “pride.â€
“Aff, Clan Snow Raven is willing to return four worlds to the stewardship of the Federated Suns and House Davion. I believe the populations would particularly enjoy a return to their previous rulers.†Sterling said laying the Snow Raven offer on the table.
“Something I am sure the First Prince would welcome, at what price?†Burton asked
“There are natural resources on these worlds we would like continued to have access to them†Sterling stated “we have put much effort into exploiting these resources. The population knows how to work the equipment; we would like to have continued access to the resources that come from the world.â€
“Something we can work with, I a sure†Burton said careful not to agree to anything
“We would also like to explore further relations with the Federated Suns; you have obviously found a way to work with Clan Nova Cat and are not averse to allowing Clan Sea Fox’s merchants to travel within your space. The Raven Alliance would like to explore closer ties with the Federated Suns.â€
“The Raven Alliance and not Clan Snow Raven?†Burton pushed asking the question he was sure his father would have asked.
“We are one in the same young prince.†Sterling said smiling “just because our Clan name and our home are linked do not think us as pacifistic as any of Kerensky’s Clans or that Clan Snow Raven has taken any back seat in our state’s dealings. We can match blow by blow anything you can throw at us.†Sterling warned showing that Burton had pushed slightly too far and that despite House Davion’s valiant efforts to build up its naval forces they still could not match the Snow Raven’s might.
“We would also like a closer relationship with your Suns; we wish to understand the Succession States more. Unlike some of our fellow Clans we Ravens have always believed that working with the Inner Sphere to create the Star League should be our goal not conquest of the Crusaders.â€
“Unlike your invasion of the Outworlds Alliance?†Burton pushed he could almost see his father shake his head at the push but Burton held firm.
“We found kindred spirits in the Outworlds Alliance, and a nation happy for us to defend while they help us build. We are a joint nation not a nation of the conquered and conquerors.â€
“And through extended contact with us you could confirm that?†Victor asked stepping forward to join his son again.
“Aff, Prince Victor we could, but I must warn you my people would find it an affront if anyone other than your son was assigned to us. He was sent to the Nova Cats, he will be sent to us or there will be no deal.†Sterling McKenna said looking from Victor to Burton.
“Sir, I am willing if this brings peace along our borders.†Burton said to his father, he knew the risks he also knew how Clanners behaved and what the price could be if he didn’t agree.
“I agree Galaxy Commander; you have a deal in principle. We will need to work out details for the future diplomatic efforts and the transition of power on the worlds you are returning to us.â€
“The worlds have already been abandoned by my people; you are free to land on them when you are ready. We will return to these worlds every month to collect our agreed share of what is produced there, do not try and cut us from what we are due, we know what is in these worlds and we will be checking what we receive.â€
“Is there anything else?†Victor asked
“Aff, one more point†Sterling said this time looking at the First Prince directly “if the nations that make your Star League were to vote for the expulsion of Clan Snow Raven from the Outworlds Alliance. You would vote against it†she demanded
“We would vote in the best interest of the Federated Suns, of the Star League and of the Inner Sphere. Your actions will demand the actions taken against it, not ours.†Victor answered carefully he was not going to agree to never attack the Ravens but he would not order assault against them for nothing.
“Deal with the Federated Suns honourably and we will deal with you the same†Burton finished speaking for his father thinking along the same lines. The Snow Ravens Sterling especially seemed convinced by his words, while Victor Steiner-Davion was very happy with his son’s steps at representing his world and their nation. Over the coming days Inner End, Hazelhurst, Bastrop and Kennard were returned to the Federated Suns Draconis March. For the most part the people of the world had refused to adopt Clan ways and instead been dealt with by Outworlds Alliance citizens but there were small shows of the Clan’s conquest in other places throughout the worlds which would take more time to remove.
White Aerie (Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser)
Nadir Point, Sudeten
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
9th October 3085
In a flash the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser White Aerie jumped into the Sudeten broadcasting its Clan Nova Cat IFF signature, immediately four DropShips deployed from its belly two Raven-class Carriers and two Vanguard-class assault ships. The system was the capital of Clan Jade Falcon’s Inner Sphere Occupation Zone but there were no WarShips at the jump point. Instead aerospace fighters deployed from the Sudeten Jump Stations challenging the Nova Cat invaders.
The Nova Cat force identifies themselves and their intention to hold a Trial of Possession for the newly produced Shadow Cat II Heavy BattleMech produced by the Jade Falcons. Instead of replying the Jade Falcon fighters declare a Trial of Possession over the White Aerie itself a former Jade Falcon vessel. The Nova Cats unwilling to lower their bid smaller than the Jade Falcon challengers eliminate two whole Stars of Jade Falcon aerospace fighters wining safcon for Nova Cat forces to travel in system and land on Sudeten. One of the two Vanguards travels in system landing on Sudeten and challenges the Jade Falcons for a copy of the Shadow Cat II and manufacturing rights. The Nova Cats fight with a combined arms trinary of one Mech Star, Two Vehicle Stars and one Battle Armour star against a Jade Falcon Mech/Battle Armour Trinary. The fighting is brutal between the two Clans but the Nova Cats are victorious as requested the Nova Cats gain two Shadow Cat IIs and manufacturing rights for the BattlleMech.
As the Vanguard rises from the planet a Jade Falcon WarShip, the Sarna Mercer a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, jumped into the system and declared a Trial of Possession for the Vanguard and everything onboard it. The Nova Cats inform the Sarna Mercer of their previous two victories and the Jade Falcon agreement of Safcon. The Sarna Mercer informs the Nova Cats they are not bound by any previous agreements made and give pursuit of the Nova Cat DropShip fortunately the Vanguard had already built up enough speed to keep it ahead of the Sarna Mercer all the way to the White Aerie. As soon as the Nova Cat DropShip arrived at the WarShip it was rapidly docked and the Black Lion jumped out of the system into the Hell’s Horses claimed Occupation Zone beyond the Jade Falcons sphere of influence.
Fourth Royal BattleMech Regimental Brigade HQ
Epsilon Indi, Star League Protectorate
12th October 3085
With the Third Royal Regimental Brigade fully operational on Fletcher the SLDF bring the Fourth Royal BattleMech Regiment online on Epsilon Indi based at a former AFFS base. Although it lacks all support assets the unit will form the second Brigade of the SLDF’s Fourth Division Colonel William Dubaku takes command of the unit.
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New Avalon News Service
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th October 3085
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen I am Jennifer Martin bringing you the news from across New Avalon and beyond. Today’s news has been dominated by a young prince and a mysterious date. Just weeks after Burton Davion stole headlines on Tikonov with Countess Pamela Achernar as the First Davion Guards were welcomed to their new assignment now he is stealing headlines across New Avalon with a mysterious female. Last night throughout New Avalon Burton and this female†she said showing a picture of Burton Davion dressed in a suit with a tall female with dark hair and a blonde streak at the front “according to witnesses the couple stole looks everywhere they went and Burton was seen buying drinks for everyone all night.†She said the picture changed slightly to show only the female “we don’t know who Burton’s guest was only that she seemed uncomfortable when separated from Burton, perhaps they have served together so far no-one knows. All I can say from this reporter to a happy Prince - good luck and don’t get into too much trouble.â€
Commanding-General’s Office
Ecol City, Thorin
Star League Protectorate
16th October 3085
Commanding-General Archer Christifori looked up at the officer who stood to attention in front of him Katya Christifori, his wife and fellow officer. Standing up “ Lieutenant-General Katya Christifori, it is my honour to serve with you, and my pressure to confer this promotion to the rank of General in the SLDF and, on the recommendation of General Caradoc Trevena, I appoint you Head of Star League of Intelligence.â€
“I accept both responsibilities gladly, you do know this means you may have to look after Morgan more often.â€
“A duty I would gladly accept. We do have more pressing concerns however, take a seat.†He said changing a control the table a small starmap showing the Inner Sphere with the Star League Protectorate worlds highlighted. Tomorrow the High Council will announce that both Oliver and Zosma have joined the Star League Protectorate and requested SLDF protection, after years of Lyran, Oriente and Marik interest they have chosen to come into our fold. I’ve already cut orders for the Second Royal Regimental Brigade to transfer there.â€
“Vladimir will love that cadre duty, he was enjoying keeping the Capellans busy and the Federated Suns honest.â€
“Too much fun from some of the reports I have seen. It’s time for a different pace for the Brigade. Unfortunately I think they could get more trouble than they are bargaining for, the former FWL powers wanted Oliver and Zosma despite the damage done to them over the years. They are still interested in both Castor and Devil’s Rock.â€
“As I understand it, certain SLIC elements have been deployed on both worlds over the years, especially Devil’s Rock, according to the last report I read because of the Free Worlds League’s collapse no-one has been willing to touch it because of the organized crime families that are there. I’m not sure if its somewhere we would want to go, I would end up having to put an entire Special Operations Group on the planet just to keep it safe.†She said, after several weeks reading over General Trevena’s notes in preparation for this posting she’d done some research.
“I have a few units that could do with the practice however until we are “invited†my hands are tied. Personally I’d give Devil’s Rock a wide berth but the Council has decreed that the Protectoate should do exactly that and protect people. We’ve given the Free Worlds League plenty of time to get its self back together and its still a mess, we might need to start moving on some of these worlds.â€
“We just need to be careful the Free Worlds League nations are already pissed at us for the New Olympica situation.â€
“That was their own fault†Archer stated clearly he knew Katya felt the same but he wanted to make sure he’d said it out aloud within these four walls just so it was completely clear. “What about out other operations?â€
“Altair is a none starter, they are more than happy with the Lyrans being in control and the Lyrans are happy to have a knife at Dieron’s throat.â€
“Lovely allies the Inner Sphere nations are†Archer commented about his home nation.
“Indeed†his wife agreed “Thorin will do what Mulphrid does and so far Mulphrid isn’t interested in the Star League, in fact they seem to be closer to Freedom and Skye every year.†She said finishing off the Lyran part of the brief. The SLDF was now involved in nearly 75% of all operations on Thorin now with the University, Fort and new Spaceport all under Star League control but the people were still very Lyran. “Keid, New Home and Byrant are all progressing very well, again freedoms within the Federated Suns are slowing our involvement with the populations largely allowed to go about their business it makes things difficult. For the Federated Suns’ part they are happy as our border is seen as somewhat safe so New Avalon doesn’t seem fused either way they are happy with the taxes and an easy world to look after.â€
“Overconfidence from House Davion, never†Archer said sarcastically as Katya continued
“We’ve had some feelers from Formalhaut but by in large Dieron is already feeling isolated so it’s a world I don’t think Warlord Dieron will want to lose. It could cause major problems with the Combine if we pushed it. The Capellans have abandoned all ideas of trying to sway New Canton back into the fold.â€
“So all in all secure enough?â€
“Quite, the only two areas I see major problems from is Wasat, Berenson and Menkalinan in the Former Free Worlds League. Our people were forcefully removed off Berenson when we approached the government there, there’s high Capellan influence on the worlds and the Capellan March of the Federated Suns have shown interest. Add in Augustine’s continued interest…â€
“Potentially a four way conflict fun†Archer mused quietly “and no doubt if they all ended up fighting over it, we’d get pulled in anyway?†He said quietly which Katya nodded in reply. “Maybe we could have a WarShip jump through the systems fly the flag get there attention?â€
“Could work, would certainly keep other powers on there toes.†She agreed
“You said two areas?†He asked Katya nodded changing the map perspective showing the Lyran/Former Free Worlds League border between the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, there were at least two dozen worlds in that region that were no-mans land the recent acquisition of Epsilon and Nockatunga by the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby hadn’t helped tensions.
“Between Colfax and McAffe is still a hotbed of trouble waiting to explode.†Katya warned
“We don’t have the money to hire mercenaries to keep them quiet, or the resources of our own to garrison that area. I’ll talk with the Archon see if I can make sure eyes are kept away from that region on the Lyran High Command, maybe we could have some Clan trouble that would keep everyone’s swords sheathed.â€
“For a while†Katya agreed
“Dinner?†Archer asked changing the subject
“Sure, you cooking?â€
“I thought we could eat out just the two of us?†Archer said smirking
“I’m sure Darius and Catherine wouldn’t mind looking after Morgan a little longer. According to Catherine it makes Darius feel like he’s in command of a Platoon again and at this rate Morgan will know how to march like a seasoned veteran before he’s ten years old.†Katya said laughing
“He does know that we plan on giving Morgan a choice about his future?†Archer asked Darius Hopkins had trained him to be a solider and looked after him since his father had passed away. When the Thorin Militia had joined the SLDF Darius had chosen retirement after many years of service to the Lyran Crown. Archer’s part-time housekeeper/part-time babysitter Catherine Daniels had kept Darius busy in his retirement as had Archer’s young son.
“According to Darius, the boy will know his place and how to take orders even if his uniform is a green one. And that and I’ll quote “no son of the commanding-general will look sloppy on parade†Katya said giggling she’d served with Darius in the milita once apon a time before the time of the SLDF.
“Maybe Andrea could look after Morgan for a while?†Archer suggested jokingly knowing that Andrea Christifori, his younger sister, was far too busy trying to keep up with the family business’ growing contract list. “Then again there could be worse than Darius…â€
“Agreed, now what do you fancy, Italian?†Katya said forgetting business becoming his wife once more. It always amazed him how she could go all business to personal in an instant while he always found it difficult to forget Star Maps, Assignments and BattleMechs.
 
Deep Space
Strana Mechty System, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
21st October 3085
Exiled to the darkest wastes of the Strana Mechty system since the founding of the Clans the Prinz Eugen was a Star League Navy Texas-class Battleship that none of the Clans were willing to accept into their Toumans. During the Exodus between the Inner Sphere and what would become the Clan’s Pentagon Worlds the crew and passengers staged a mutiny against General Aleksandr Kerensky. The leaders of the mutiny had been escorted after a brief battle against marines loyal to Kerensky but the Prinz Eugen was forever tainted in the eyes of the Clans.
Instead the ship had been left damaged from the mutiny and turned into a massive prison ship devoid of weapons the ship was allowed to drift. On board the prisoners were allowed to mingle freely while the guards controlling the bridge and engine room maintained critical equipment guarded by Elementals from the Clan’s Ebon Keshik.
On the 21st October something happened aboard the vessel, exact information was unknown to the outside world but in a blink of an eye the ship was gone with no sign of where it had gone. When the monthly prison shuttle arrived with three new prisoners all they found were three dead Elementals who had suffocated in their suits. The Ebon Keshik not wishing this loss to be known to all Clan society quietly eliminated the shuttle and began an investigation without informing the Grand Countil however given their limited resources no sign of the Texas was found.
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Martial Olympiad
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
3rd November 3085
With the Starliner One, passenger cruise ship, arriving two days before the final events the Draconis Combine led by the enigmatic Warrior A go on to win the Martial Olympiad. The MechWarrior, who refuses to appear in public without a specialist set of armour similar to that of the Bounty Hunter, pilots an Atlas II Assault Mech. As the Draconis Combine does not manufacture this type of Mech many wonder if the pilot is a specialist hired in by the DCMS so the Draconis Combine could push for the victory. Lyran Intelligence investigates all foreign sales of Atlas II BattleMechs from Hesperus II in an effort to track down the warrior not only because of the Martial Olympiad loss but to ensure they knew who this rogue assault Mech belonged to. After coming up blank they then check all combat losses of Atlas II’s and find only one that fits the bill. In 3080 the Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards Regiment had been forced to retreat from Ko by Draconis Combine forces. Their commander a Colonel Alex Hutchings had surrendered to the Combine to ensure his regiment was allowed to leave unmolested, he also piloted an Atlas II. To the LIC it appears that the Draconis Combine has attempted a “Fredrick Steiner†with the Colonel turning the warrior once loyal to the Lyran nation into a weapon for someone else just like what ComStar did when Fredrick Steiner joined them after being a prisoner of the Draconis Combine.
In space the Rasalhague Dominion’s bad luck ship the Silverdale, a Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser, dominates the competition supported by a group of Aesir and Vanir type Assault DropShips. This is the debut of both types of DropShips and they impress many who look at them making the Inner Sphere even more wary of the Ghost Bear Military of the Rasalhague Dominion. Passengers aboard Starliner One receive the best seats in the house as they are able to watch a magnificent light show put on by the competing WarShips.
 
Tenth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
6th November 3085
Today was the beginning of a momentous occasion for the reformed Star League and for the SLDF the end of the Ninth First Lord’s term and the beginning of the Tenth, at the end of which would usher in 30 years of the reborn League. Victor Steiner-Davion was leaving the office for the second time but already the day had been mired by claims of War Crimes being brought against the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry by Protector Erik Martens-Calderon. Based on information which dated back as far as the Star League Civil War, but with nothing other than witness accounts that had “survived†since the times of the crimes before the Second’s miss-jump the claims are thrown out with the Taurian leader virtually laughed out of the Council.
Unfortunately the day had gone from bad to worse. As the vote had begun it was clear that the Capellan Confederation would be victorious despite the efforts of the Federated Suns, Lyran Commonwealth and St Ives Compact efforts. All three former Free Worlds League Realms, the Draconis Combine and the Taurian Concordat all voted for the Capellan Confederation and Naomi Centrella was sworn in as the new First Lord.
Almost immediately she calls for a no confidence vote on Commanding-General Archer Christifori due to actions made against the Capellan Confederation and its allies when Christifori has been in charge. Unfortunately unlike the support with votes that made her First Lord the former Free Worlds League states support Christifori’s position as First Lord as does the Federated Suns, Lyran Commonwealth, St Ives Compact and Draconis Combine completely vetoing the First Lord’s order.
Tenth Whitting Conference, Unity City
North America, Terra
Star League Protectorate
9th November 3085
The Office of the First Lord was a new Officer within the Whitting Conference Centre and Commanding-General Archer Christifori felt like a school child being called to the principal’s office. The new First Lord had ordered him to attend her office after her embaracing defeat in the High Council “Commanding-General please come in†Naomi said as Archer entered.
“Sir†Archer said formally standing at attention "he would carry out any lawful order but to hell with her if she thought he'd consider her to be anything like his liege lord. Naomi rose from her chair she wore a figure hugging black dress which set off her dark skin and dark hair. A single pair of diamond earrings sparkled as she moved around the table leaning on the edge of the table leaning forward towards Archer intentionally showing more of her body to the Commanding-General.
“General, I do not trust you†she started “you have master-minded missions against my people and as a former officer of the Federated Commonwealth I am sure you are more loyal to the First Lord that has left this officer than the current one.†She said smiling as she spoke Archer could smell Naomi’s perfume it smelled as poisonous as her attitude towards him.
“I am loyal to the office of the First Lord, not the person.â€
“Good, I need you to do something for the First Lord.†Naomi said smiling again “I need you, and the Head of Intelligence, to investigate House Davion’s extended contact with the Clans and ensure they have not compromised the Inner Sphere by this contact.â€
“As I understand it House Davion’s contact has been limited to some technology exchanges.â€
“You will investigate further†Naomi ordered.
“Yes sir†Archer said accepting the order from the office.
 
Northwind Command
Northwind, Star League Protectorate
15th November 3085
In their continued rotation of their regiments the Northwind Mercenary Command deploys the Stirling’s Fusiliers Regiment to the Clan Jade Falcon border. While the Second Kearny Highlanders agree a contract with the Oriente Protectorate this Colonel James Cochranes last command before his retirement at age eighty-three. They begin their contract by landing in force on the world of Wasat taking the world in the name of the Protectorate without a fight.
Steel Viper Assaults
Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
22nd November 3085
In a week of rage Clan Steel Viper sets the Homeworlds on fire with a series of deadly attacks on the Clans that have invaded the Inner Sphere. Starting on Tiber Clan Steel Viper assault Clan Wolf’s holdings there with the entire Rho Galaxy, four heavily under strength Clusters, defending are the Fourth and Sixth Wolf Regulars of the Wolf Tau Galaxy. The Wolves make the Vipers pay for every square metre of Tiber’s territory eventually falling back completely from the war but completely destroying the Steel Viper Galaxy in the process. The Steel Vipers hold the territory but the entire Rho Galaxy is stood down, the Wolves stand down the Sixth Wolf Regulars Cluster.
Three Days after the assaults against the Wolves the Steel Vipers turn their attention onto the Snow Ravens based at Brim. In total six ground Clusters and five WarShips enter the system immediately launching an assault on the three Snow Raven WarShips at the Jump Points and sending troops to the planet. In a near three hour battle the Snow Raven vessels Vision of Terra and Cold Hunter, both Lola III-class Destroyers, and the Rook, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser are “sunk†by Clan Steel Viper vessels. The Rook had been carrying materials and infrastructure from the Snow Raven facilities on Brim. Against them the Snow Ravens destroy the Ophidian, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, and the Snake Leader, a Congress-class Frigate, two heavy losses for the Steel Viper Clan but it is clear the Steel Vipers control the field. On Brim the Steel Vipers find all Snow Raven facilities near abandoned and stripped of useful material.
Completing their week of strikes against the other Clans the Steel Vipers strike down the Jade Falcons on Hoard in a rapid series of attacks made by the Steel Vipers Beta Galaxy they wipe out the Seventh and Twelfth Falcon Regular Clusters of Rho Galaxy. These troops have been all but abandoned on the world with vehicles and Inner Sphere Mechs making up the Clan Jade Falcon garrison forces.
Enjoy
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Occupation Zones
Jade Falcon, Wolf, Hell’s Horse Territory
Inner Sphere
1st December 3085
The trouble in the Homeworlds began by the Steel Vipers seems to travel the distance between the Homeworlds and the Occupation Zones. Fires of trouble ignite when Clan Hell’s Horse assault the Jade Falcon worlds of Leskovik and Zoetermeer in brutal Trials that resort in the destruction of the Jade Falcon’s Eleventh Provisional Garrison Cluster and elements of the Pryde Eyrie Cluster both of Kappa Galaxy.
Sensing an easy victory Clan Wolf then strikes at both the worlds of Dell and Severn eliminating the remains of the Pryde Eyrie Cluster on Dell and driving off elements of the 126th Striker Cluster on Severn securing both worlds.
 
Roche, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
14th December 3085
As other Clans battle out their differences on the battlefield Clan Goliath Scorpion has other problems brought on by their own inquisitiveness. The return home of Chi Galaxy was heralded as a momentous event in the development of the Clan. The Galaxy which had been deployed with the Eridani Light Horse to study that unit’s development from the Star League-era and then continued its study by travelling through the Federated Suns to study the Kentares Massacre Monument and to meet with Star League Defence Force personnel from the time of the original Star League including a member of the Cameron family had finally completed its journey and come full circle.
Unfortunately the Galaxy had also brought revelations that the Goliath Scorpion Leadership and people had never expected. During the units time with the Eridani Light Horse they had learned of the unit’s past, its troubles and its triumphs and seen how different the unit was from what the Scorpions believed was a true Star League unit. They had then learned of the troubles of the Inner Sphere, the Clans had always known of the massive deaths brought on during the Succession Wars and seen the lists of dead worlds but to see the results of the Massacre on Kentares first hand had changed many of the warriors of Chi Galaxy. For them to see the faces of the people of that world who still hated the Kurtia family for the orders that nearly wiped their world from history had moved many of them. While the meeting of Bannister Cameron had completely thrown their beliefs to question, a member of the ruling family of the original Star League had been cast out by his own people because his beliefs differed slightly from the rulers of House Cameron. He had been exiled seen as a threat; there was no honour in his exile, no glory to be won and no chance of a warrior’s death. For the family that had founded the Star League to treat on of their own in such a way was inconceivable for the Clansmen. As was Bannister’s continued belief in the rebuilt Star League Defence Force, when asked if he had the choice would he have left to join the Clans when his unit had arrived in the modern age Bannister’s response was one of anger and disgust. He openly hated what Nicholas Kerensky had done to the remains of the Star League when his father’s forces had fallen into Civil War. To hear a member of the Cameron family talk down the Founder’s actions and the results of these actions had rocked the members of Chi Galaxy to their cores.
Now the return of Chi Galaxy and their findings worried the Leaders of the Goliath Scorpions there was no way to “put a lid†on Chi Galaxy’s findings as soon as the unit had returned home its findings were for all to see. A Trial of Annihilation would stop the members of the unit spreading their experiences further but the unit had done what the Khans had ordered. Removing the Khans for their actions did not eliminate the results. With no direction the Goliath Scorpions ordered all their forces into the defence of their enclaves as they tried to access their entire belief system.
Allard Residence
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
20th December 3085
The Allard Residence was dressed up like a massive Christmas tree as everyone prepared for the big day. It was cold but not snowy outside Daniel Allard was well wrapped up as his wife Megan Kell continued to experiment for Xmas dinner. His eldest child Mark was back from Tharkad home for the festive season while his other two children Patrick and Katrina were on assignment within the LCAF. That wasn’t to say the family home was quiet, it wasn’t, Dan had been commander of the Kell Hounds Mercenary Command for several years and there was a near endless stream of well wishers at the door.
The door knocked again for nearly the one hundredth time that day Dan got out of his seat “I’ll get it†he called at nearly the same time as his wife. Shaking his head Dan headed for the door anyway reaching it at nearly the same time as Megan, neither said a word as they opened the door together standing there was Lt. Colonel Akira Brahe his dark eyes filled with a mix of anger, sorrow and regret. “Akira†Dan greeted him neutrally
“Colonel†He replied formally still using Dan’s rank despite being retired. “Sir, there’s been an incident.†Akira said his voice near breaking
“Who?â€
“Your son Patrick†Akira began “I’m sorry to inform you sir; he was killed in the line of duty serving with the Lyran Commonwealth on the Marian border.†His words hit Dan like a ton of bricks but that wasn’t all that had hit him, the Mercenary Commander hand informed him of his loss not someone from the nation’s Armed Forces.
“Why you?â€
“I heard of the death through the Military pipelines. Given your continued connection to the Kell Hounds I asked if I could be the one to deliver this news. Sir, from the bottom of my heart please accept my condolences and those of all the Hounds.â€
Thank you Colonel†Dan said quietly closing the door without further words turning he saw Megan was crying as she was held by Mark. Crossing the space Dan’s arms enveloped them both sharing their support as well as their grief. A father should never bury their children he thought quietly the life was a dangerous one that he had lived for so many years but this was something he had never expected to happen.
Nadir Point
Baker 3, Jade Falcon Territory
Occupation Zones
23rd December 3085
After nearly a month of being on the back foot against strikes from both Clan Hell’s Horses and Clan Wolf all Jade Falcon forces were on high alert against further trouble. Nothing came until a strike near the end of the year in the Baker 3 system when two Hell’s Horses WarShips entered the system. “This is Star Commodore Henrik Cobb of the Hell’s Horse Clan commanding the WarShip Red Knight; we claim this system in the name of Clan Hell’s Horses. Our ground forces are on their way to the planet to claim our possession. Any interference will be met with deadly force.†The communication from the Hell’s Horses attack force had been played throughout the system. However Baker 3 was an important system for the Jade Falcons it was a link that maintained supply lines and the Jade Falcons had prepared for an attack.
Charging from the Zenith Point the WarShip Night Talon rose to engage the Hell’s Horse vessels immediately Naval Autocannon and Laser fire from the ship lanced out turning four Hell’s Horse DropShips and two JumpShips into atoms eliminating the ground forces. Two whole Clusters of Hell’s Horse troops dying in an instant. A panicked reply from the Hell’s Horse commander was heard briefly as the Nightlord II-class Battleship moved into position “Jade Falcon naval commander you will engage in the tenants of Zellbrigen and initiate a Trial of Possession for this world.†It had been a question that had sounded like a request the Jade Falcon reply was only one syllable.
“Neg†followed by Naval Autocannon, Laser, Particle Cannon and Gauss Rifle fire. The Lola III-class Destroyer that used to be the Red Knight ceased to be within minutes as the Jade Falcon battleship engaged them with everything they had. The Hell’s Horse second vessel the Sharon, an Essex-class Destroyer, seeing the demise of its companion vessel and the Jade Falcon’s obvious capabilities quickly hot charged its Jump Drive and escaped the system. With a vessel such as the Night Talon in the system there was little to no chance of a Hell’s Horses conquest of the system.
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Another good update, i'm not sure i'd like to be the Marian Hegemony though.
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Another good update, i'm not sure i'd like to be the Marian Hegemony though.
And the people are just realizing that...
I was going to wait until the new year to start 3076, but it's Christmas Eve, the weather's atrocious and I wanted an excuse to post here so here it is the start of 3076.
I hope all the fans of this timeline have a very Merry Christmas
3086
Border skirmish
Reykavis, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Former Free Worlds League
4th January 3086
In the Reykavis system a simple border raid from the Marian Hegemony turns into a full our border skirmish as Marian Hegemony WarShips, the Hanse and Protector, battle against the Impavido-class Destroyer Jeremy Brett. The Tamarind WarShip is outgunned and out maneuvered by the periphery vessels and is destroyed however further damage is caused to the Lola III-class Hanse while the newly built Protector is also destroyed in the conflict.
With their new ships turned to dust in single engagements and the Hanse’s might continuously being downgraded by combat operations it’s clear to many within the Marian Hegemony they cannot hope to stand up to a concentrated Inner Sphere assault. Unfortunately for the Marian people their leader Caesar Katrina Ward is still holding onto desires from her past and the warriors that traveled with her from the Clans keep her safely in power.
Clan Snow Raven Territory
Lum, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
12th January 3086
After months of conflict Clan Snow Raven secure what remains of Lum in the Kerensky Cluster after incursions by Clans Steel Viper, Star Adder and Sea Fox. The fighting had devastated much of the industry on the planet but the shipyards in orbit were mostly intact which was all the Snow Ravens were interested in. With the shipyards they could produce plenty DropShips and JumpShips to transport the remains of their civilians to the Raven Alliance space in the Periphery.
Nadir Point
Baltazar III, Timbuktu Theatre
Bolan Province, Lyran Commonwealth
20th January 3086
The shuttle from the planet joined the DropShip at the Nadir point “Welcome aboard Leiutenant, we should have you on Arc Royal in a few weeks assuming we get lucky with a couple of Jump point transfers.†the Captain greeted her at the airlock.
“Thank you Captain†she said quietly “the timescale isn’t important only the journey.â€
“I understand, I’m sorry for you and your family’s loss†he said quietly “we have your brother in guest quarters.†The Captain said “would you like me to escort you there?†He offered
“That would be nice, thank you.†She said quietly as they moved along the corridors, the zero-gravity made the travel slightly more difficult but it wasn’t new to her.
“You can have all the time you need Leutenant.†The Captain said as they reached the room.
“Thank you, sir†she said entering the room. The room was no different than any other guest quarters except for the coffin resting in the middle of the room strapped to a weighted trolley. It was made of wood with a Lyran Commonwealth flag draped over the top section and a Kell Hounds symbol over the lower half. “Together again Patrick†she said quietly moving over to a chair on the far side of the room staring at the box her brother was now contained in. Katrina Allard felt it was her duty to escort her brother home to Arc Royal, she’d been granted compassionate leave by Colonel Butcher for the journey.
Circle of Equals
Sudeten, Jade Falcon Territory
Occupation Zone
22nd January 3086
“Here lies Khan Marthe Pryde her time has come; now we must move forward. I claim the position of Khan of Clan Jade Falcon. Are there any challengers?†Diana Pryde said looking around it was time to breath new life into the leadership of their Clan. Diana had been saKhan since the death of Samantha Clees she was also a freeborn but she was sure she would have the support for the position; she had won her father’s bloodname that alone carried much support within the Jade Falcons. No-one spoke up “I proclaim Uvin Buhallin hero of Operation Revival and commander of the First Strikers Cluster as our new saKhan.†She said looking at the Star Colonel from her own Gamma Galaxy, well connected and respected within the Clan he was approaching sixty-three years old but didn’t look a day over forty. “Are there any challengers?†She asked looking around the circle of warriors, they had seen her kill the Khan none were willing to challenge her. “Excellent, now clean up this mess.†She ordered glancing at the dead Khan before marching from the room Uvin Buhallin following in her wake.
Hope you've enjoyed more in the new year
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Now something for the New Year!
Contract Negotiations
Ionus Shipyards, Ionus
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
3rd February 3086
The Star League enters negotiations with Ionus Shipyards within the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth for access to their Britannic-class Heavy Transport, a WarShip with more space dedicated to cargo than to weaponry. As the Star League expands it is becoming clear to many within the higher levels that more HPG sites and Recharge Stations are required to meet the demand required. The Britannic is seen as a perfect vessel to fill this gap in Star League transport needs and a way for the Star League to further solidify links to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. By mid 3086 the Star League are granted permission to buy several vessels in the future as production catches up with demand.
Near Orbit
Galatea, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
8th February 3086
With Outreach still closed as a mercenary world with only select commands allowed to land on that worlds Galatea was becoming the Mercenary’s Star once more. However years of neglect in Outreach’s shadow had left the facilities on the world wanting. In an effort to find a way to attract further interest in the world and help the commands that come to visit Duke David Nowakowski begins to investigate the possibility of building a Space Station in the system.
Interstellar News Network
New York, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
10th February 3086
“Ladies and Gentlemen welcome to a special edition of INN. Today the Draconis March of the Federated Suns and many worlds within the Draconis Combine are ablaze with the fires of anger. For once this is not related to one Succession Lord attacking the other and the ensuing counter attacks instead it has been brought by the revelation of one person’s origin†the broadcaster said quietly as a picture of Ambassador Kitsune Kurita was shown “this is Ambassador Kitsune Kurita, until a few months ago he was seen as a viable other option to Duke Minoru Kurita or Coordinator Vincent Kurita with many nobles within the Draconis Combine supporting him. He informed everyone he was not interested in leadership instead he pursued the diplomatic approach to help his nation. Surprisingly he became the first Kurita in many years to travel to New Avalon visiting in private with First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion†the broadcaster paused as a picture of the Federated Suns leader was shown beside Kitsune.
“It is now clear that this visit was of a more personal nature than a professional one. It appears that Kitsune Kurita is in fact Victor Steiner-Davion’s illegitimate son born to Duchess Omiko Kurita during the Clan War. It is a well known fact that Victor and Omiko were involved during the Clan War, a relationship that began on Outreach during the secret meeting with the Wolf’s Dragoons and that continued as Victor helped save Hohiro Kurita and beat back the Clans cumulating in the destruction of Clan Smoke Jaguar. It appears that Kitsune’s birth and his parentage were hidden from a select for many years, even his father did not know until the meeting on New Avalon.â€
“The news has caused ripples throughout the Draconis Combine and Federated Suns with much anger directed at Victor Steiner-Davion’s cavalier youth and at Coordinator Theodore Kurita and First Prince Hanse Davion who allowed the relationship to go on. Kitsune has publicly said that he has no interest in leadership of either realm and is happy to serve the Draconis Combine as Ambassador to the Star League. However, this has not quelled all voices that have come out against him or his father who still rules the Federated Suns from New Avalon.â€
“At this time we are aware of riots taking place on six worlds in the Federated Suns and an unconfirmed amount within the Draconis Combine. Duke Tarncred Sandoval has ordered for AFFS troops to support local law enforcement forces on three of the six worlds experiencing riots.†The broadcaster said as the worlds of Robinson, Kentares and Al Na’ir were highlighted on a map of the Federated Suns. “With Ambassador Kitsune’s statement it is hoped that the troubles on these worlds and others will end and normality will return. It is understood that the High Commands of the Federated Suns, Draconis Combine and Star League Defence Force are all taking an interest in the situation.â€
Dig Site, Allied Aerospace Company
Southern Region, Pollux
Star League Protectorate
18th February 3086
Sixty-four days into what was the strangest salvage operation in Skibinski’s Salvage Mercenary Command’s history. The unit had struggled for the last fifteen years to win a single military action but they had become near experts in repairing the near destructible. Their commander Edward Skibinski had no military training at all but loved technology; he’d been challenged by Gilmour Miltech of Talitha to salvage a military experiment from the radioactive ruins of Allied Aerospace Company on Pollux.
They had searched the ruins for nearly a week before finding what appeared to be a launch tunnel that went nearly three hundred metres below the ground. Skibinski’s Salvage worked through the tunnel finding artifacts from the Star League era the tunnel was wide enough for a BattleMech to walk up to the surface. Skibinski’s Salvage’s IndustrialMechs had dragged more than three thousand tons of rock to the surface but Edward Skibinski wasn't ready to give up just yet, deep scans of the area had shown a hollowed out area at the end of the tunnel.
Pushing through the last layer of rock the entire entrance to the cavern opened up to reveal a large cavern with various BattleMech cradles and support facilities recessed into the walls. Most of the cradles were empty, some had BattleMechs and Aerospace Fighters in their bays but these had been crushed over the years by cave ins and collapses. Only one of the bays had anything that resembled an operational BattleMech standing as tall as most Medium BattleMechs the Mech had a strange almost aerospace fighter shaped cockpit. Stumpy legs supported a long torso with what appeared to be large enhanced jump jets of some sort on the back. Over one shoulder it had what looked like a Light Autocannon. On the other shoulder was a missile launcher of some sort to the untrained eye it looked like a five-tube Long Range Missile weapon. Finally a laser type weapon appeared on one of the Mech’s arms Even to the untrained eye Edward Skibinski guessed it was some type of experimental Land Air Mech, Edward Skibinski knew that Allied Aerospace had produced one of the Early LAM designs known as the Shadow Hawk LAM.
To the trained eye Skibinski’s Salavage had actually found one of the original three Shadow Hawk X1 LAMs the long lost Chassis 002 lost since the fall of the Star League and the destruction of Allied Aerospace. Gilmour of Talitha reward the mercenary command well for their find while claiming the rights to the Shadow Hawk LAM from the defunct Allied Aerospace Company despite having no real idea how to produce a LAM design.
Medical Facility
New Samarkand, Midway District
Draconis Combine
20th February 3086
Dressed in the uniform of a DCMS MechWarrior Tami Moto felt like a fraud, what was left of her arm was still heavily bandaged; ot was likely she would never pilot a Mech again. By the Coordinator’s order she had reported to New Samarkand for treatment. Arriving at the medical facility she had been taken through various rooms and given various tests. According to the doctors her arm’s nerve endings were intact and the limb was in very good condition despite the damage done to it already. They then announced that they would be able to give her a cybernetic enhanced limb in replacement, and with it return her to the battlefield, despite the costs involved they said that with the right treatment she could use the arm as she would her flesh and blood model. As her treatments began Tami Moto could not help but wonder why she had been singled out for such special treatment.
General Katya Christifori Office
The Fort, SLDF Intelligence, Ecol City
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
26th Febryary 3086
Deep within The Fort at the centre of Ecol City General Katya Christifori was reading over a particularly troublesome intelligence report. On the periphery world of Astrokazsy Star League Intelligence Agents investigating claims of further caches of weapons and equipment on the world had witnessed two large BattleMechs fighting pirates on the planet. These Mechs were of the heavy category with large shoulder plates, particle cannons on each arm and further lasers in the torso. The description and pictures of these Mechs showed them to be nearly identical to the PRF-1 Prefect BattleMech produced by Irian for the Star League Defence Force. Why such Mechs would be fighting on a periphery world? And why Irian had sent an incomplete order to the Star League Defence Force raised serious flags towards Irians motives and their allocation of resources. Katya decided to send additional SLIC resources to Irian to watch the corporation there.
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Former Free Worlds League
Inner Sphere
2nd March 3086
Following a successful test on the world of Tappachulo the Regulan Fiefs continue their expansion into the independent worlds of the Free Worlds League using blunt force. Beginning with the worlds of Home and Ibarra both worlds join the Regulan nation without a single shot fired. On the worlds of Aconcagua and Panjang the Regulans face more resistance, the RFS Clipperton and RFS Gibson arrive in orbit over both worlds, the Regulus-class Frigates with their Mass Drivers a threat that few could ignore. On Panjang the RFS Gibson uses its Mass Driver to flatten a small inactive mining facility this act of open violence convinces the world’s leadership to join with the Regulan Feifs.
Trials of Possession
Lum, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
11th March 3086
After securing all of Lum the Snow Ravens had continued to strip the world of everything useful to the Clans as they continued their transition to being the Raven Alliance. The other Homeworlds Clans angered by the Snow Ravens continued movements to remove resources that they could use. Jumping into the system the entire Alpha Star of Star Adder WarShips entered the system declaring a Trial of Possession for the shipyards and the system. The Snow Raven’s three defending WarShips and seven stars of aerospace fighters along with several DropShips declare themselves in defence.
As the battle continues across the star system the Snow Raven vessels Black Beard, a Fredasa-class Corvette and Ice Storm, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser, are destroyed while the Star Adder vessels Divine Conquest, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, the Admiral William S. Preston, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, and Yodan, a Lola III-class Destroyer. The remaining Snow Raven vessel James McKenna, a McKenna-class Battleship, holds the field badly damaged but in control. Snow Raven leaders accelerate their evacuation of the Lum system.
Trials of Possession
Lum, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
13th March 3086
Barely two days after the Star Adder assault on the Lum Shipyards the Goliath Scorpion vessels Lei Wang, a McKenna-class Battleship, Corona Borealis, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, and the Garlon, a Congress-class Frigate jumped into the system “This is Star Admiral Caroline Shaffer of Clan Goliath Scorpion, Clan Snow Raven has betrayed all the Clans by removing resources from this system that all the Clans need. We declare a Trial of Possession for this world and all the resources here.â€
“This is Star Commodore Jeremy Sukhanov commander of the James McKenna we and all Snow Ravens in this system refute your claim.†The sole Snow Raven WarShip returned the challenge as aerospace fighters and DropShips moved in on the Goliath Scorpion force from both Jump points and the James McKenna, still damaged from the Star Addder attack assaulted them with Naval Particle Cannon fire.
The Snow Ravens intentionally fought a retreating battle using the broadside weapons of the James McKenna to hurt all three Goliath Scorpion vessels as they pulled back deeper and deeper into the star system. The Lei Wang a match for a fully operational James McKenna continuously tried to charge the James McKenna pulling it into a real duel of naval titans but the more experienced crew of Snow Ravens aboard the James McKenna were able to avoid the Goliath Scorpion vessel constantly causing a little more damage.
Battling across the system for three days the WarShips fought through the system’s shipyards which claimed the Corona Borealis as an entire star of Carrier type DropShips descended on the Goliath Scorpion vessel overwhelming it at point blank range. The remaining two Goliath Scorpion vessels began to target the shipyard installations in an attempt to draw out the James McKenna and any remaining Snow Raven defenders. The lure worked as all remaining Snow Raven aerospace fighters and DropShips rose from the planet joining in the defence, the renewed vigor of the Snow Raven defence caused telling damage on the Lei Wang causing further and further damage to the Goliath Scorpion vessel but the attack also exposed the James McKenna to crippling damage.
As the Goliath Scorpions put down the last Snow Raven defenders within the shipyards the reason for the delaying tactics became clear. During the last moments of the battle in the heart of the Lum Shipyards the SLS Argus, a Newgrange-class Yardship that had been integrated into the Lum Shipyards following the foundation of the Clans blasted its way clear of the shipyards using its array of Naval Lasers. As the Snow Raven controlled vessel accelerated the Goliath Scorpion vessel Garlon tried to close on it only to be met by the BattleMechs of the Fourth Raven Garrison Cluster. With their Mechs refitted for space operations the forty-five Snow Raven Mechs landed all over the Congress-class Frigate and began firing weapons into the ship at point blank range. As Goliath Scorpion Aerospace fighters diverted to engage the BattleMechs on Garlon’s hull the SLS Argus broke Lum’s gravity well and after fast charging its jump drive jumped clear of the system.
Even after the Fourth Raven Garrison Cluster’s Mechs had been destroyed it was clear to the Goliath Scorpions that the Garlon was too badly damaged to be saved and that the Lum Shipyards were crippled possibly beyond repair. On Lum there was still three Clusters of Snow Raven warriors, the Goliath Scorpions had declared no trials against them but the Snow Ravens had declared “all Snow Ravens†would defend the system. From orbit over Lum’s capital the Lei Wang turned its broadside of Naval Particle Cannons on the planet and began a bombardment of all Snow Raven military installations. Although the Goliath Scorpions did try to limit fire to military formations there was massive civilian casualties on the planet as massive cities were turned to ash under the weapons fire.
When the Goliath Scorpion ground forces landed on the world they find a destroyed world with little to answer for, instead of occupying the world they take what is left of value, along with the majority of the population and strip the remains of the shipyards. The Goliath Scorpion actions effectively turned Lum into a dead world, the first Homeworld to be reduced to such by conflict, the Clan Council calls for all the Khans to convene for a meeting on Strana Mechty to discuss the events that had led to Lum’s loss.
National Elections
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
21st March 3086
Across the Star League Protectorate worlds the populations of the world vote for who would represent them in the future Star League Council meetings and dealings of the Star League. Every world within the Star League’s control, including the worlds Kittery, in the Federated Suns, New Olympica in the former Free Worlds League and Valerius, in the Marian Hegemony, are given equal votes. The Star League represents each world in various ways and each should decide where its leadership would come from and would they wanted to represent them.
Front runners are current leader Governor of Terra Gavin Dow, retired mercenary Colonel Andrea Stirling of Northwind and Major-General Bannister Cameron of the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division. After the first day of the election and with the worlds of Valerius, New Earth and Fletcher declared it becomes very clear who would be victorious. Five days later and with all twenty worlds declaring their individual winner Major General Bannister Cameron is declared victor and leader of the Star League Protectorate.
Meeting of Khans
Tukayyid, Rasalhague Dominion
Clan Occupation Zones
23rd March 3086
Not since the early days of the Clan Invasion had so many Khans met within the Inner Sphere, on the very world that stalled the invasion Tukayyid now deep within the Rasalhague Dominion. Leader of the Dominion Bjorn Jorgensson had drawn them together in the wake of news that a Cameron had ascended to a leadership position within the Star League Protectorate but also other matters.
“My fellow Khans†he began Bjorn was an Elemental by birth although he flew an aerospace fighter into combat his deep voice echoed through the simple meeting room within the purpose build facility. “Welcome to Tukayyid, it has been many years, I am glad you all honoured the Cease Fire and have traveled from far and wide to be here.†He said looking around in the room there were seven Khans and saKhans, the leaders of each Clan that had ventured into the Inner Sphere and Periphery. Some controlled huge swaths of territory carved from the Inner Sphere’s Succession Lords while others controlled periphery realms and individual worlds. But as far as each was concerned they were all the others equal. “I called you all here to discuss recent events within the Inner Sphere, Bannister Cameron, a direct descendant of the Cameron Bloodline and a blood relative to the last First Lord has ascended to the leadership of the Star League Protectorate. This act neither the Great Father or Founder could ever have though possible. Out actions in the future could be directly against a member of the Cameron Bloodline, I wonder what are your feelings on the matter?â€
“Nothing changes†Nathan Fedladral Khan of the Wolf Clan said quietly “we came to place Clan order on the Inner Sphere, Cameron is not a Clan Bloodhouse. This Cameron has openly said he would oppose us in combat in support of the Inner Sphere’s own sham Star League. The Cameron house failed the Star League; the Kerensky’s saved our people and brought lives to our Clans. We cannot deny the history of change, a Cameron or not.â€
“I agree†Diana Pryde, new Khan of the Jade Falcon Clan said quietly the two strongest Crusader Clans still remaining together despite the changes in leaders.
“As do I†Khan Canin Rosse of Clan Nova Cat said quietly, the Nova Cats had taken no territory in the Inner Sphere but their dealings with the Federated Suns and its allies were well known at this table. “We are the Clan, they are the Inner Sphere. This Cameron is no First Lord, and even if he was able to take that position, he is no leader of mine. The Nova Cats stand as a Clan of Kerensky, we make our own destiny.â€
“A Cameron or not, the Inner Sphere is of little problem to us.†Khan Lynn McKenna said rapidly, the Snow Raven Khan obviously agitated by other events. “Recent actions within the Homeworlds have become rash to the point of wasteful, the recent destruction of Lum is proof of the madness that is spreading. Our people are no longer safe.â€
“I agree, my traders have already begun to pull the last Sea Fox assets from the Homeworlds, the Clans there have become resentful of our place in the Inner Sphere.†Hanna Coston, leader of the Sea Fox Clan said.
“Can I suggest that should the Clans call council that we†James Cobb, Khan of the Hell’s Horses, said raising his hands taking them all in “vote together to block any attempt to call for the abjurnment or annihilation of any Clan present, at least until we remove required assets from the Homeworlds.â€
“Such as a Newgrange Yardship from the Lum Shipyards?†Diana Pryde asked accusingly knowing what had spurned the Goliath Scorpion anger against the Ravens. “Tell me Raven how long did it take your people to prepare that ship for independent operations? And when were you planning on informing us of your possession of the craft.â€
“We have always had access to the ship; you will all be granted access to it once we have moved it to Quatre Belle Shipyards within the Raven Alliance.†Lynn McKenna promised.
“I will stand by any Clan here that is wrongly accused of actions within the Homeworlds that they did not commit. But if you cross a line, you will lose my vote.†Canin Rosse warned, around the table the Wolf Khan and Sea Fox leaders nodded their heads agreeing “it is clear to me that the Homeworlds have moved from the path that we are on, we should make sure that we are not swallowed by their troubles.†He said wisely around the table the other leaders nodded in agreement.
“Seyla†they all chanted together in agreement. Should the Homeworlds Clans go to war against them, they would be ready united as one.
Hope you enjoy and hope you had a good New Year
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A short April and May
Rim Association Expansion
Former Free Worlds League
21st April 3086
Several months since their last move against independent worlds of the former Free Worlds League, and with no reaction from any of the major FWL states, the Rim Association moves again against its independent neighbours in a string of assaults led by the Liger Warriors and mercenary commands hired by the Association they take the worlds of Ghaziabad, Karachi, Mankova, Gallchina and Bismark within a single week capping off the month of April with the annexation of Bayindir and Tellman’s Mistake.
For most of these worlds is it the first time they have been under the heel of a larger power since the fall of the united Free Worlds League giving the Rim Association occupation forces and mercenaries plenty of work to do on these planets. Fortunately there is little in the way of resistance that is worth sending additional forces to any of the planets.
Grand Council Meeting
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
30th April 3086
“This session is called into order. There are talks of Abjurnment and Annihalation. These matters have grave consequences for all the Clans, take caution when discussing them.†Loremaster Dagmar Lahiri said bringing the Grand Council into session. The room was nearly half empty every single one of the Inner Sphere and Periphery based Clans choosing to attend via HPG Link from the planet Tukayyid. The homeworlds based Clans had already raised objections over this but over the last thirty years it had become nearly common place for at least one of the Clans not wholy based in the Homeworlfs to attend virtually. “Khan Andrews of Clan Steel Viper has the floor.â€
“Thank you Loremaster. Clans Snow Raven and and Goliath Scorpion have brought a great loss to these Homeworlds. The Lum Shipyards is a massive loss to our ability to maintain our spaceborne vessels.â€
“Clan Goliath Scorpion was merely attempting to stop the Snow Ravens from removing this capability.†The new Goliath Scorpion leader Khan Colin Yeh said quietly
“Indeed, Clan Steel Viper completely supports the actions of Clan Goliath Scorpion, for the Snow Raven’s to have robbed us of resource goes against everything that supports the Clans.â€
“Those yards were Snow Raven property, crewed by Snow Raven men and women. It should have been to upto the Snow Raven Clan for how they were used. Instead Clans Steel Viper and Star Adder conspired against the Ravens launching attacks of each other within days. The Ravens had no option but to retreat how they did.†Khan Canin Rosse of Clan Nova Cat pointed out from his position on Tukayyid.
“And what we have salvaged from Lum is still available for Clan use, our Shipyards in the Quatre Belle system will soon be fully operational capable of servicing vessels of many Clans.†Lynn McKenna said from her position near Canin Rosse.
“Half a galaxy away!†Khan Garet Sainze of the depleted Fire Mandrill Clan almost shouted
“Any WarShip or JumpShip can make the journey, our Clan’s do all the time.†New Jade Falcon Khan Diana Pryde pointed out.
“My fellow Khans I see a stalemate…†Khan Nathan Fetladral of Clan Wolf said smirking as he did “I have been given permission by all the Clans within this room to say we will not support any action against Clan Snow Raven. And any action taken will result in direction action being taken in defence of Snow Raven assets still in the Homeworlds. If you want us to return to the Homeworlds in force and cause you all issues to worry about, we will accommodate you we are leading the Clans of Kerensky by example by holding our ground within the Inner Sphere despite the fall of the Smoke Jaguars and the retreat of the Star Adders and Steel Vipers.†Fetladral said intentionally trying to rile the two snake Clans leaders.
“You don’t even live here!†Khan Brett Andrews shouted losing his temper. "You can't even bring yourselves to turn up to simple council meetings!"
“But at least I can speak properly†Khan Nathan Fetladral quipped noting Andrews blatant use of a contraction within the Council Chambers. In the eyes of all but the most liberal of Khans Andrews had just invalidated much of his argument by a simple vocal mistake.
“My apologies†Andrews said quietly retaking his seat.
“Perhaps other issues†Loremaster Lahiri said quietly “Khan Goliath Scorpion perhaps you could explain what happened to your former Khan? This chamber was unaware of the change?â€
“Killed in action on the world of Huntress yesterday along with two Clusters of Clan Goliath Scorpions finest warriors as we fought to control all of that world.â€
“She was aware of this meeting Quiaff?â€
“Aff, her unit was already engaged. Areil Suvanov believed in leading her force from the fore, as a true warrior of Kerensky should. She died a warrior’s death and led her forces to victory over Clan Star Adder’s Tau Galaxy.â€
“A Galaxy that fought to the last man, we have heard nothing from the unit?â€
“There is nothing left of the unit to hear from Khan Star Adder. They fought bravely but were overwhelmed.†Khan Colin Yeh reported, the Star Adder leaders looked angry but knew there was little they could do, few Clans had any assets on Huntress since the fall of Clan Smoke Jaguar seeing little potential for the world other than the SLDF Garrison which remained within its own enclave for almost the entire year round.
Bridge, Starliner One
Matsuida, Matsuida Prefecture
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
2nd May 3086
Jumping from the An Ting system of the Federated Suns into the Matsuida system of the Draconis Combine should have been a straight forward event however as soon as the Starliner One entered the Combine system anti-avoidance alerts activated and other alarms sounded. Sitting just off the jump point was a triangular shaped vessel the Starliner One’s military grade sensor suite, had fortunately never been removed or cleared since its time as the Blake’s Vengeance, immediately identified the vessel as a Tatsumaki-class Destroyer of the Draconis Combine Admiralty. Fortunately the five hundred thousand plus WarShip was not moving in on them or attacking straight away instead Captain Conner Kitsch decided a different approach “This is the Starliner One, we have been given clearance to pass through the Combine to New Samarkand as part of our journey.â€
“This is Dedication of Duty, we shall be your escort and will transmit you jump coordinates for your journey. Do not deviate from the planned course and there will be no problems. This will be your only warning.†The WarShip commander ordered not even identifying himself, Captain Kitsch had been warned by Duke Richard Brannson X that this journey would be full of interesting developments; he guessed that this was just the newest one.
Commanding-General’s Office
The Fort, Ecol City, Thorin
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
10th May 3086
Noticing a growing discord within the SLDF troops Commanding-General Archer Christifori had come up with a plan to hopefully bind his troops closer together without starting another war. As Thorin was mostly a Star League world these days, and because of the University Construction Project, the world had two HPGs so as Commanding-General he commandeered one for this important message. Ordering it Linked to the Solaris VII Primary HPG Archer sat down in his office and looked at the real time image of Lieutenant-General Jerry Wagner commander of the Third Brigade of the First Division “Bolton’s Rangers†the unit had served the Free Worlds League between the fall of the First and the rise of Second Star League but had rejoined very soon after. It was a Veteran command and Solaris had been very quiet of late which made the unit perfect for rotation. “Jerry how are you doing?â€
“Good sir, the gaming season is wrapping up so mostly police actions for our troops. But all in all very quiet, I assume this isn’t just a social call?â€
“Negative General, I need your unit for a missionâ€
“The Rangers are always ready sir.†Jerry said proudly
“Don’t volunteer for something until you know what the mission is†Archer said smiling “no one ever tell you that?â€
“Not an option in my family sir, a mission is received and you carry it out.†Jerry replied quickly making it clear there was no way his Regiment wouldn’t be completing their mission.
“Jerry, recently there was an attempt against the Coordinator of the Combine’s life. We’ve volunteered our services of two Regiments to help keep order in the area of the attack and investigate for further trouble.â€
“Something my unit can do sir, we’ve had plenty trouble with Isle of Skye Independents on Solaris the last few years. Draconian ones won’t be that different.†He said confidently Bolton’s Rangers was a Free Worlds League unit almost as much as an SLDF one despite its storied history. Archer knew they had dealt with their fair share of insurgencies in the Free Worlds League and in fighting against the Capellan Confederation but the Draconis Combine would be something completely different for them.
“General, I’m sending along with your unit two others the Third Royal BattleMech and its support units and the Seventy-eighth Special Operations Battalion.â€
“Sir, we’re happy to take the Killer Bees, their previous experience in these operations are well known.†Jerry began naming the Seventy-eighth by their nickname “but the Fourth they’re a bunch of kids…†He complained but trailed off as he saw Archer’s mood darken slightly.
“Lieutenant-General†Archer began reminding him of his full rank “the biggest problem that unit has is lack of experience. Working with you and the Killer Bees will help it along. We need to bind the SLDF together not drive it apart.â€
“Understood sir, we will do our best.â€
“I’m sure you will Jerry, I have full confidence in the Rangers.†He said cutting off the link he needed to break through some of the SLDF’s miss conceptions, if he had to annoy some people doing it he would.
Chemical Extraction Plant
Riverton, Antallos
Raven Alliance, Periphery
12th May 3086
It had been a quiet night on Antallos, exactly the kind of night each warrior serving the Snow Ravens hated. Ever since the initial pacification of the world by Clan Snow Raven it had been this way. Most of the warriors stationed here were long past their prime, Antallos had been a pirate world with little interest from the nearby Draconis Combine when the world fell to their forces. Ever since the fall of the world the Snow Ravens had begun to clean up of the surface and atmosphere of Antallos which had for centuries been the target of military action.
The small settlement of Riverton in the northern hemisphere had been selected for the positioning of a Chemical Extraction Plant. Situated on the Coast of Boogerlong Lake, which itself connected to the Sea of Green, the plant’s sole duty was to clear the water and air of pollutants. Once the amount of pollutants got to a certain level a DropShip would arrive and remove them from the planet never to trouble the world’s 5 million plus inhabitants.
MechWarrior Stacy was forty-two years old; by Clan standards she had no bloodname or rank and was going nowhere assigned to the Twelth Garrison Cluster of Gamma Galaxy. Her Omen BattleMech was brand-new design but it was far from the best Clan Snow Raven could produce, a standard non-OmniMech unit weighing in at eighty-five tons it was armed with a variety of medium ranged laser, autocannon and missile weapons. Nearby a pair of newly deployed Nuberu Anti-Aircraft Tanks, a pair of Nova Cat manufactured SM1 Tank Destroyers and a couple of points of conventional infantry rounded out the defence force.
The first strike came in the early hours during her patrol Stacy’s assault Mech had been smashed by an LRM and laser barrage from the air from a Buccaneer-class DropShip that had identified as the weekly supply ship. Her assault Mech damaged Stacy had turned her guns to the air as had the Nuberu’s throwing barrages of LB-X Autocannon fire into the air. As they fired into the air a company of BattleMechs charged on the ground, both Nuberus became the target of a Longbow and an Atlas while Stacy became the target of a Victor BattleMech that seemed to be carrying an artillery piece in place of its standard autocannon. The paired SM1 Tank Destroyers had become target of nearly a lance of BattleMechs, the fifty ton Hovercraft a seen as a serious threat by the enemy force.
Forging ahead into the enemy’s fire Stacy tried to become a target for all the enemy forces bringing fire from all directions as she tried to defend the vehicles and infantry forces serving beside her. Despite not being a leader of her Clan or a Bloodnamed warrior MechWarrior Stacy fought like she was possessed by the Founders of Clan Snow Raven firing in multiple directions she broke every Clan dueling rule engaging enemies in multiple directions. Her efforts were not enough however the Nuberu Anti-Aircraft Tanks were first to be destroyed even with their four autocannons turned on ground targets they were still no match for a BattleMech assault. Concentrated fire from the two SM1s tore an arm off the Longbow knocking the Support BattleMech to the ground but even that was not enough, the Atlas charging had crushed one under its massive left foot while the second had been crushed by a Heavy Gauss Rifle slug from its torso weapon.
Stacy turned her lasers into one Mech, her autocannon at another Mech and missiles at a third engaging everyone within her forward arc. Arms spread wide weapons firing everywhere Stacy stood like a Clan hero of old but even one Clan assault Mech piloted by a driven Clan warrior was not enough to turn the tide of this particular battle. The return fire from nearly eight BattleMechs tore into the armour of the BattleMech obliterating armour, structure, weapons and engine. Stacy fought to control her BattleMech but it was too late the Omen had taken too much damage and was falling forward out of control crashing into the ground. Stacy survived the fall but her Mech was damaged beyond repair the last thing Stacy remembered seeing was a strange looking Mech carrying a massive chain run up towards her Omen and kick the cockpit, the already damaged cockpit crumbled under the impact and the MechWarrior inside was crushed to death. At least she had received a warrior’s death fighting for her Clan.
The pirates made short work of the conventional infantry which formed the last line of defence of the extraction plant before connecting massive hoses to the storage tanks. The Buccaneer-class DropShip was in fact the Red Raider, DropShip of Vance Razek the former ruler of Antallos, the ship had been missing since the fall of the world. Once loaded the ship blasted away from Antallos chased by Snow Raven aerospace fighters but the DropShip had too much thrust and too much firepower for them to shoot down. Antallos did not warrant a WarShip in its defence, with the fighters unable to catch them the Red Raider had a clean run all the way to a waiting JumpShip before escaping the system with over one thousand tons of hazardous materials. As one final insult to the Snow Ravens once they had reoccupied the extraction plant and begun to bring its systems back online an explosive charge detonated within the factory spreading further lethal materials throughout the Riverton enclave causing further problems for the Clan leaders of the world.
Thirteenth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate, Lyran Commonwealth
20th May 3086
On the world of Solaris VII MechWarrior Tamara Nova Cat felt like a Clan Warrior once more as she battled in the Thirteenth Annual Star League Games. It was a battle of skill, warrior and machine locked together in combat. Her Sphinx BattleMech had taken a pounding but somehow the Wild Geese Techs that had accompanied her had kept the seventy-five ton machine standing. Colonel Sandy Reich had said as long as she brought home the top prize she could extend her leave from the Wild Geese as the Regiment continued its rebuilding efforts from the losses taken during Alisande Faulkner’s revenge raid into the Free Worlds League.
Twisting and turning through the weapons fire Tamara made the Sphinx dance like it was lighter than the air surrounding it. Laser blasts crossed the Star League stadium as another opponent fell, across the stadium another Mech was falling to another warrior’s fire.
With those Mechs destroyed it left only Tamara’s Sphinx and one enemy Mech remaining a heavily modified Grim Reaper BattleMech. The fifty-five ton Mech was so modified even the enhanced scanners of Tamara’s Clan Mech struggled to identify it as a Grim Reaper. Tamara knew the pilot of the Mech was a former member of ComStar who went by the name of Einar she also knew the medium Mech carried Clan weapons and additional armour than the chassis was rated for. Fortunately the Mech was badly battered and its Long Range Missile bays were empty reducing the Mech to two lasers on its right arm. Tamara’s own Sphinx was badly damaged its left arm and the large laser house there hung useless after taking a shoulder and upper arm hit while half her torso mounted medium lasers had shorted out. Fortunately she still had one large laser and five medium lasers at her disposal; her Mech was bigger and faster than the Grim Reaper.
Cutting to the right she blasted with her remaining large laser concentrating on the Grim Reapers right side as the lighter Mech tried to close to bring both its weapons into range. Tamara almost laughed at the thought, at this range the two Mechs were evenly matched, should the Grim Reaper close the firepower advantage of her torso lasers combined with the arm laser put the odds massively in her favour.
The Mechs continued to close dancing between the laser blasts, it was like an augmented Clan Trial of Position with the crowd surrounding them screaming for victory. Despite everything Alisande Faulkner had tried to teach her Tamara still found herself missing that life in so many ways but now she was a Wild Geese pilot and she would do her Regiment proud. Continuing to close Tamara saw the targeting recticle go green for all the Sphinx’s remaining weapons and pulled the trigger seeing three medium lasers and the large laser all hit their target and the Grim Reaper blossom into fire.
Excess heat caused by the firing of her lasers sent the temperature in the Sphinx’s cockpit skyrocketing but Tamara hit the override intent on keeping her Mech functional for as long as possible. She needed not to however over the tannoy she could hear a familiar voice congratulating MechWarrior Tamara on her victory at the Thirteenth Star League Games, she knew the voice it wasn’t any of the normal commentators who had spoken over the last few days instead it was Colonel Sandy Reich commander of the Wild Geese. Who had traveled all this was to congratulate her, any thoughts of a return to Clan life were banished in nearly a second of hearing the Colonel’s voice, she was already home.
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Into June, starting with something spectacular (I wish my courses started like that), then showing Bannister Cameron uncomfortable. Please not I haven's read Surrender Your Dreams so if "Custos" seems off let me know, also with no Republic they are going to have a little different path.
Lyran Commonwealth Naval Training
Port Sydney Naval Yards, Alarion
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd June 3086
The massive gravity deck aboard the space station spun at a relatively comfortable 0.9G as the class of cadets sat down for the opening lecture of the year. Among the cadets was Duchess Jessica Steiner newly completed a physics degree she had now chosen to follow in the footsteps of her father and grandfather and join the military.
Entering from the left of the room the class Kommandant Arturo Toretto stepped in front of the Class. He was a retired veteran of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces having piloted aerospace fighters early in his career he had moved onto DropShips and then JumpShips. “Ladies and Gentlemen welcome to piloting school one-oh-one. Each of you are going to be challenged both academically and physically over the next three years, you will study, you will live, you will even breath aerospace fumes before you are even allowed within a cockpit of a fighter.†He said walking from one edge of the student group to the next “everyone will meet the standards required by this school or they will be dropped from this course no matter, who they are or what family they belong to.†Jessica knew he was on about her, although there may have been one or two others he had taken a jab at. “Some of you will fail, I am afraid that is the nature of this course. Some of you may be hurt or even die.†He said letting that hang in the air for several moments “we pride ourselves on running a safe environment for our students but accidents have unfortunately been known to happen, space is a dangerous place.†He warned them all “others will graduate and never progress beyond being a pilot of an aerospace fighter, some will never want to progress further than that lofty position enjoying the thrill of pilot and machine locked in deadly combat with an enemy.†He said raising a small control pad to his hands “but one or two of you may decide that despite the freedom of piloting an aerospace fighter you would prefer to pilot something a little larger and perhaps even rise to the command of such a craft.†He said pressing the button suddenly the massive clam-shell doors that made up the portion of the wall opposite the students seats began to move revealing massive windows out to space. To keep these exposed all the time would be highly dangerous but they did give spectacular visions out to space “behold the pride of the Lyran Commonwealth Navy the Mjolinir-class Battlecruiser Snow Fire. One of only three such craft currently serving within our naval forces you will see the heavy battle damage along her port side which was caused by the Clan Jade Falcon vessel Falcon’s Nest.†He said allowing them to look at the massive 1,350,000 ton vessel one of the largest WarShips ever constructed it carried more firepower than a combined BattleMech Regiment and carried enough aerospace fighters and DropShips to dominate an entire solar system it was magnificent despite the damage which had been caused to it, infact it was perhaps more impressive because of the damage showing it had fought for its nation and sacrificed so much. “To even come close to that vessel, you will have to work hard, study harder and show that you want it, otherwise you will wash out and I will be sorry you ever stepped into this school. Now lets get started ATTEN-TION!†He shouted at the top of his voice, all the cadets snapped to a salute all still looking at the massive WarShip docked at the shipyards, each filled with hope, pride and desire. Among them Duchess Jessica Steiner, heir-apparent of the Lyran Commonwealth knew one thing, in her heart she believed the future held for her a WarShip command.
Major-General Bannister Cameron’s Office
Second Armoured Cavalry Division’s Base
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
19th June 3086
The one thing that Bannister Cameron had always hated was paperwork unfortunately being a Division commander he had always had paperwork, his father had said the Cameron family runs on paper and it wasn't because people lay it at our feet. Being attached to a Special Operations unit testing the Blackwasp AM Drone Fighters had added to his paper work which more often than not was system updates and additional testing. Now that the Second was at the forefront of the new Star League Defence Force and the higher powers of the new SLDF had an almost unhealthy interest in drone technology. It seemed they had forgotten the damage drones and automated SDS systems had caused during the time of the first Star League, Bannister had meant to speak with the current Commanding-General about the SLDF’s interest but so far he hadn’t had the chance, too much paperwork.
Since becoming Governor of Liberty he had had the additional paperwork of a world to contend with and now he had the additional work leading the Star League Protectorate. Not to mention the growing amounts of what Colonel Kincaid called “fan-mail†his being a pure-blood Cameron had spread word throughout the Inner Sphere and many saw him as their savior. More than one letter demanded that he become leader of the Star League not by democratic vote but by the power of Succession and birthright. He hated it, none of these people understood, he wasn’t a politician he was barely managing the Second Armoured before Liberty got involved and now the Protectorate it was a mess.
It was late and he was still in his office there was a massive storm outside with the ocean’s swelling and causing damage to some of the Second’s facilities. Colonel Kincaid had already coordinated the Division’s troops into disaster relief teams who were working to counter the damage done. The Fifth Light Infantry Brigade was already deploying infantry detachments and engineers across the planet to provide assistance Bannister was left with his paperwork.
There was a knock on the door “how many times Andrea, you do not have to knock.†He called out if anyone was going to knock it would be Andrea Kincaid. The door swung open to reveal a tall broad shouldered man with blonde hair that had begun to go slightly grey. “I am sorry; I thought you were someone else.†Bannister said raising to his feet his hand drifting towards his regulation sidearm. “Visiting hours are long over, if you wish to meet with me you should come during the daylight hours.â€
“I am aware General; however my appearance during the day would not serve you or me very well.†The figure said entering the room slowly in the better light Bannister could see he was nearly seventy perhaps eighty years old from his size he thought the man may be a Clan Elemental warrior. The Clans were an entirely different challenge for Bannister Cameron many saw his allegiance to the new Star League as the darkest betrayal against them and against Aleksandr Kerensky. “I am Custos Paul†he said softly “my people are descendant from the original Star League, we have been cast off from the people we once sheltered with and now wish a new home.â€
“There are many worlds out in the galaxy Custos, I cannot home everyone.â€
“General, my people are well armed and well motivated if we wished we could take a world to call our own.†Custos said Bannister was unsure if it was a threat or not. “But we do not wish war General, we wish to work towards a better future. My people number perhaps four hundred souls, we would like to occupy Mopelia Island.â€
“Mopelia Island is a dead zone has been since 3079 since the biological attack. Nearly forty thousand lives were lost on that world.†Bannister said surprised by Custos Paul’s idea “no-one else has been willing to go there despite the biological damage being cleared, much of the city is still in ruin destroyed during the riots.â€
“My people are aware of the situation†the Custos said he must have seen Bannister’s expression change then clear “we were not responsible for the attack on that island.â€
“Which unit of the Star League did you saw you were descendant from?†Bannister asked changing the subject.
“I did not, my people descend from multiple units of the old League that banded together and tried to form a new civilization. Unfortunately that did not work out for us.â€
“I will have to consider your idea Custos, and there will be a price to your acquisition of the island.†Bannister warned Custos Paul just nodded “come back to me in six months and I will tell you what my decision is.†He promised the shadowy figure remained standing for several moments before nodding leaving as quietly as he had come. Bannister sat back down behind the piles of paperwork but did not pick up any of the papers; this new problem could cause more issues in the long run.
Capellan Confederation Expansion
Former Free Worlds League, Inner Sphere
21st June 3086
The former worlds of the long defunct Duchy of Andruien become part of the Capellan Confederation as Armed forces loyal to the Chancellor land on the worlds of Ryerson, Xantha III, Ingonish, Villanueva, Leyda and Cursa creating the new Andruien Commonality. Leading these forces is the new Capellan OmniMech the Culverin, a newly developed Heavy design carrying stealth armour. Built on Grand Base by Earthwerks the seventy-five ton OmniMech like the smaller Men Shen before it is an exclusive OmniMech for the Capellan Confederation.
Although there is wide condemnation against the Capellan actions for destabilizing the area Chancellor Naomi Centrella points out that the worlds targeted by the Capellan Confederation were all former Duchy of Andruien worlds, and that with the creation of the Andruien Commonality the area would be more stable.
The Culverin comes from Fan TRO 3063, one of my favourite designs in that for looks even though I don't like one or two bits of the design fortunately its an OmniMech and you make what you want :D
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Clan Halls, Wolf City
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Donagal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
8th July 3086
“Evan Wolf, you are called before this council†the Clan Loremaster Patrik Fetladral called throughout the Clan Hall, the massive Elemental’s booming voice carrying to all in the room. Evan Wolf stepped out wearing his Clan leathers. He was a freeborn warrior who had recently completed his first Trial of Position but had yet to receive his rank nor command.
“I stand called†he said ahead both Khan Phelan Kell and saKhan Ranna Kerensky sat at the head of the council.
“Evan Wolf, you have accomplished something that no freeborn Clan warrior before you has ever accomplished. Four kills in your first Trial of Position, an impressive feat which should grant you the rank of Star Colonel and command of a Cluster of Wolves.†He continued Evan stood silently “unfortunately there are no Cluster commands available. You could challenge any of the current Cluster Commanders but know you would do so with no support.â€
“Then what will become of me, I am a Wolf warrior I deserve what I gained though combat this is the Clan way.†Evan protested.
“Evan Wolf, four kills in a Trial of Position is a rare feat. The reward you deserve is what the Khan decrees.†Fetladral continued “our Khan has ordered that you command the Wolf Spider Keshik under saKhan Ranna Kerensky and that you serve as her aide within Beta Galaxy until a Cluster is made available.â€
“I protest, I won the right to command a unit of my own, I want combat.†Evan said, from behind him he could hear support from the Clan’s warriors and he could see the saKhan smile despite her advancing age she was a beautiful woman and a feared warrior within the Clan.
“Trust me young warrior, you will have all the combat you could cater for. The Wolf Marauders will be our Clan’s reaction force for the next several months you will be involved in as much combat as you could possibly desire.†Fetladral promised the young warrior “do you accept this charge and duty?â€
“I will serve the Wolf.†Evan promised saluting the Clan leaders
“Good, you have been assigned a Lycurgus OmniMech, young Star Colonel. Your duties start immediately†saKhan Ranna Kerensky said rising from her chair.
Around the chambers all the Wolves chanted together “Seyla†in agreement and salute.
Throne Room, Forbidden Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
11th July 3086
The tension within the walls of the Forbidden Palace could have been cut with a knife the Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation was in the midst of one of her now famous, or infamous, rages. An assassination attempt against her son Dao-Shen Centrella had failed on Grand Base former headquarter worlds of the McCarrons Armoured Cavalry.
“How many people have your men rounded up?†She asked Hadji Doru who stood to attention within the throne room.
“Supported by elements of the Centrella Black Guards Regiment Jason Zaklan and the Youling Zhanshi have rounded up three thousand and sixty-two people that were in the area.†Hadji Doru said quetly since his actions on Victoria Jason Zaklan had become a favourite of the Chancellor as had the Youling Zhanshi Lance which appeared to have attached itself him without any real orders.
“Good pass orders to Zaklan, I want them shot.â€
“Zaklan is a national hero, having him execute our own citizens is perhaps not a good idea.†Doru protested Zaklan was a warrior not an executioner his reward for service should not be fighting the people he was sworn to protect.
“Fine pass it to the Centrella Black Guards commander I want all those we have captured executed.â€
“Chancellor, in your position as First Lord of the Star League having your own people executed could put you in trouble with members of the Star League Council.†Doru continued to protest
“This is an internal matter, I am Chancellor of the Capellan people, I am the Celestial Wisdom. Pass on my order to the Centrella Black Guards or become one of their victims.†Naomi ordered her anger rising, Hadji Doru was a brave and honourable man but he was also pushing her patience. For a moment it appeared that the House Master would oppose her but he simply nodded and left the throne room, the people of the Capellan nation would learn she was not to be challenged or they would pay the ultimate price, she would protect her family whatever the cost.
Interstellar Expeditions Mission,
Deep Periphery Adean Dulcimer (Bug Eye-class Surveillance Vessel)
21st July 3086
The command deck of the Adean Dulcimer was a compact area settled within the nose of the the ancient Bug Eye-class Surveillance Vessel with enough room for eight crew at various stations keeping control over the tiny ship which was technically a WarShip built around a Sub-Compact KF Core and was easily the smallest WarShip ever created. The Adean Dulcimer was also quite possibly the last of her type in operation by an Inner Sphere power salvaged from a system in the Deep Periphery many years before. After spending several years scouting Caesar’s Bow, a collection of new systems beyond the Marian Hegemony, the ship had been assigned to a mission within the Axumite Provence and then to the Union of Samoyedic Colonies neither of which had been very interested in contact with them despite the advanced technology they could offer.
Travelling to Refueling Base Gamma near Vul Rift the Adean Dulcimer was now heading towards the Chainelane Isles for another mission which promised to be a far more busy one because of increased Clan business in the area. Jumping into a new unchecked system the Adean Dulcimer’s advanced sensor arrays immediately went active detecting another vessel nearby “Oh my god we’re so dead!†Analyst Josh Gibb whispered looking at his screens “ war-book identifies as a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, we’ve even got a name Reaver.†He said quickly
Project Leader Fredrick Lord glanced from his command chair at the Analyst then at the forward screens which were showing the Heavy Cruiser. “Reaver, was that one of the ships that left with the SLDF Exodus Fleet or one of the missing ships?â€
“One of the ships that left with the Clans, SLS Reaver ended up with Clan…†Analyst Rebecca “Becka†Forsyth reported “Clan Fire Mandrill.â€
“Fire Mandrill? What the hell are they doing here?†He wondered the Fire Mandrills had never been anywhere near the Inner Sphere. “Have we got any active sensors off that thing?†He asked one hit from any of the Heavy Cruiser’s main guns would turn the Adean Dulcimer into dust. The Bug Eye was built as a scout and intelligence gathering craft; it wasn’t designed to fight off an aerospace fighter let alone a fully armed WarShip.
“Nothing at all sir, no sensors, no active engines, no life signs. She’s dead.†Josh Gibb reported “the ship is just outside the gravity well but at the rate its orbit is decaying she’ll be in the sun within a year.†He reported without any active power the gravity of the star was ready to draw the WarShip into a fiery grave.
“Further contacts!†Rebecca called “looks like a Carrack-class Transport and a Lola III-class Destroyer, IFF says she’s the SLS Anathema another ship that left on the Exodus. Both are in close proximity of the fourth planet of this system which is within the system’s Goldilocks Zone.†She said naming the region of a system that could potentially support a habitable system. “There also both very dead, little to no power off both of them.†She said as the sensors caught up with the targets.
“Didn’t we have a report of a faction of the Fire Mandrills going AWOL a few years ago?†Political Analyst and Researcher Malcolm Polson inquired quietly from the back of the bridge.
“Check that†Fredrick Lord said looking at the screens with a bit of wonder had his people just found a goldmine?
“Confirmed boss, according to SLDF Records Kindraa Payne-Beyl-Grant left Clan Fire Mandrill in 3069 with no confirmed orders. The group had three WarShips and four Clusters of Ground troops with them, they were believed to be on a secret mission of some sort for the Fire Mandrills but in 3070 the Clan declared them dezgra, rogue.†Rebecca reported “I think we might have just found them, everything fits so far.â€
“But what the hell happened to them?†Three WarShips and four Clusters of troops are enough to carve out a small empire out here.†Fredrick said quietly “send a message to Gamma Base via Black Box have them relay it to Interstellar Expeditions. Message Reads assistance required, major find, encrypt highest level of security.†He said looking at the communication analyst “Helm officer bring us up to 1G acceleration, heading for the fourth planet. Sensors and weapons keep a look out for anything that shouldn’t be in the system, never know another Clan might have wrecked their WarShips but left aerospace fighters or DropShips to defend the survivors.†He said it was unlikely but looking at the mess that had been made to Reaver they wouldn’t be taking chances.
As it turned out Fredrick’s caution was unneeded Kindraa Payne-Beyl-Grant was dead, someone had found them and crippled all three WarShips before dropping at least three cobalt bombs onto planet four covering every continent in a thick radioactive cloud. If the world was pleasant enough before now it was deadly to human life. The Adean Dulcimer’s advanced sensor arrays and active scanners detected the remains of several DropShips on the planet as well as three ruined settlements all left intact since the attack the aggressors allowing the Cobalt bombs to kill the people with radiation rather than force of arms. Why these people’s attacker had never returned to try and salvage the WarShips or remove the technology from the planet was unknown only that on the ground nearly twenty thousand people lay dead around a goldmine of Clan technology and information.
Even with all the resources of Interstellar Expeditions they knew it would be impossible for the company to take everything from the world. So word of the find was sent to the Star League Defence Force and a deal was struck. The Star League Defence Force would take possession of all three WarShip wrecks and half of the Clan equipment on the planet along with a share of all the information found about Kindraa Payne-Beyl-Grant. In return they would provide the First Special Operations Group minus the Killer Bees Battalion. Making up the four Battalions of the First SOG were units specifically designed to clean up nuclear, biological and chemical spills and a former mercenary command known as the Devil’s Advocates which specialized in securing and making safe zones that had been exposed to dangerous materials.
Daycare centre, Robinson City
Robinson, Draconis March
Federated Suns
22nd July 3086
In an effort to quell continued anger at the revelation that Kirsune Kurita is in fact Victor Steiner-Davion’s illegitimate child the First Prince and his wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion had went on a goodwill tour of the Draconis March with the First New Avalon Guards RCT and the FSS Alexander Davion acting as escorts.
After a brief meet and greet with Duke Tarncred Sandoval Victor had insisted on meeting the people of the Draconis March not just its leadership. First was a visit to Robinson Standard Battleworks followed by a visit to Valiant Systems, a relatively new company producing Combat Vehicles for the Federated Suns, both these visits went very well with the people happy to see their First Prince and his wife. They then went onto a daycare centre in downtown Robinson City for their third visit of the day.
Major Jacob Theron, head of the First Prince’s Bodyguard, had known something was wrong as soon as the First Prince’s convoy had moved up to the centre but hadn’t been able to pinpoint it. As the Battle Armour and standard infantry fanned out securing the area both Victor and Danai had remained within their heavily armoured Limosuine. Two streets every direction around the centre was secured by BattleMechs of the First New Avalon Guards while aerospace fighters and VTOLs patrolled the air. It should have been enough, it wasn’t, almost the moment the Deusenberg Limo’s doors opened and a figure exited the the first of six explosive devices went off at strategic points around the craft causing complete mayhem as people were thrown threw the air and pieces of building were turned to shrapnel flying through the air. Fortunately the first person to exit the craft was not the First Prince instead it was Major Theron with quick instincts, sharpened fighting the Clans and serving as the First Prince’s bodyguard commander, Theron had pushed Victor back into the craft and hit the door closing button just as the third explosive went off crushing the Major into the side of the Limo.
The Deusenberg Limo was designed with the duty in mind, a craft designed to carry First Prince Hanse Davion had already saved Duchess Danai Centrella and Victor’s family once before. It’s military grade armour was designed to shrug off weapons fire from BattleMechs and easily dealt with the Improved Explosive Devices (IEDs) used by these would be assassins. The Hovercraft was disabled as bricks and supports from the buildings around fell on it pinning it in place but its armour held and the Hovercraft’s independent air supply systems kept its passengers safe and sound as the First New Avalon Guards locked down the area and evacuated the wounded. In all three hundred civilians and sixty-two members of the AFFS had been killed by the bombs, structural collapse of several buildings had destroyed any evidence of who had triggered the devices which appeared to have been triggered by sensor waiting for a vehicle matching the Deusenberg’s profile to have arrived at a specific point.
With this obvious attempt against the First Prince’s life the decision is made to cut short Victor’s trip to the Draconis March, with tensions continuing to ride high everyone including Victor Steiner-Davion knows it may be a while before the people of the region completely trust him. Both the DMI and MIIO assign additional assets to the Robinson Intelligence Division in an attempt to get on top of the events that had transpired and prevent future troubles.
Hope you enjoyed it
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Author Note
After a minor hick-up where I got locked out of Microsoft Word I've been able to transfer much of the timeline (at least the future) to notepad so I should be able to write more. Updates may be slowed however until I can figure out what is wrong with word.
Cheers
DC
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No worries DC, we are all looking forwards to the next update.
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Words messed up I'm going to have to invest in Office it looks like... :'(
Clan Neigotiations
Csesztreg, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
9th August 3086
The Clan Hell’s Horses Hall on Csesztreg was as grand as the one they had on Strana Mechty it was a symbol of their Clan’s new position within the Inner Sphere. Khan Hanna Coston almost smiled looking at the transformation the Hell’s Horses had made to the world they were turning it into a model of Clan society. “Khan Coston, welcome to Csesztreg†Khan James Cobb said entering the room behind the Elemental an equally large Elemental stood a little further back.
“Thank you Khan Cobb and Star Colonel Kabrinski, your reputation precedes you.†She said recognizing the other Elemental.
“As does yours Khan Coston†Kabrinski replied quietly remaining behind his Khan, the former Ghost Bear warrior seemed to have fit into the Hell’s Horses well and knew his place behind Khan Cobb.
“Perhaps business would be a better approach?†Khan Cobb asked Coston nodded “Clan Hell’s Horses is aware that your Clan has built a shipyard within the Chainlane Isles, and we would like to use it.â€
“Our Chainlane Isles facility was created to build our ArcShip vessels, homes for our people. The facility was not built to create further WarShips.†Coston protested although she knew fine that plans were well ahead of schedule for that to become a reality soon.
“Aff Khan Coston, we are aware of what your wishes were, which was why we traded you Troop Cruisers for Destroyers.†Cobb said “now we would like to offer a new source of materials to continue your efforts in creating homes and provide you with a potential escort craft.â€
“We have a craft in mind for such a task.â€
“We also have a craft in mind one we would like to produce, sooner rather than later. It will be many years before we will have a shipyard capable of supporting such efforts. We would like to use yours.†Jake Kabrinski said stepping forward his Khan nodding approvingly.
“If you are willing to share the craft you have in mind then we potentially could help you.†Coston said guardedly as Cobb passed her a data chip.
“We wish to receive the first Halcyon-class Cruiser produced and we would prefer you did not trade it to the other Clans until we have vessels operational.â€
“We won’t trade the craft but cannot be held accountable if other Clans win it in combat.â€
“Of course not Khan Coston, but your Clan doesn’t need to advertise its existence either, Quiaff?†Cobb said pushing the Sea Fox Khan into agreement, Hell’s Horses scientists had spent months developing the vessel and they intended on having access to the craft first and foremost even if they needed help producing it.
“We will not cause undue interest in the design until the time is right.†The two Hell’s Horses Elementals exchanged looks but both knew they couldn’t force the issue with the Sea Fox Khan, her Clan would act as it saw was necessary for its continued success as would they.
Star League Quartermasters
Terra, Star League Protectorate
12th August 3086
After almost being a Protectorate world for five years, without incident, the SLDF Council agree that New Olympica’s request for a naval training ship to assist with their already considerable aerospace training facilities. They also agree that future SLDF Naval training and advanced ship handling will take place within the New Olympica system.
As a result of this decision funding is made available for one of the derelicts in Terra system, Determination, a Vincent-class Corvette formerly belonging to the ComGuard, to be converted into a training ship and delivered to the Lloyd-Marik Stanley Aerospace School for use. The work renovating the hulk is expected to take three to four years due to damage the ship took during its service with the ComGuards and additional refitting work that is required this includes additional quarters for two crews and additional trainers.
-
Rim Association Expansion
Former Free Worlds League
26th August 3086
For the last two years the Rim Association had pushed into several of the independent systems of the Free Worlds League increasing its influence and strength. The former Nova Cat warriors of the Liger Warriors, the Association’s best equipped and trained troops, were at the fore of this easily overwhelming the under-equipped and trained Independent world militias. This system was different to others however; it wasn’t officially an FWL world or at least didn’t appear on any Interstellar map. The Rim Association scout team had only stumbled onto it when discovering the wreckage of a Monolith-class JumpShip, scouting further they had found an inhabited world with strange characteristics.
The world was massive three to four times the size of Terra standard, and it was easily 90% covered in land with few open bodies of water. The Northern and Southern Hemispheres seemed well developed separated by a massive desert that ran the entire circumference of the world. As they approached the DropShip’s sophisticated sensors could tell there were fusion plants on the world but they were very few, they could also tell the world was well built up with a population in the millions with at least two dozen cities and three Maglev lines linking the North to the south.
“Quite a prize†Major Sandra Rimmer said quietly, she was a Nova Cat by birth but had fully embraced her place as a Rim Association citizen going as far to take the surname of “Rimmer†to show her dedication to their new cause.
“Star… I mean Major; we are detecting a battle on going on the surface.†One of the crewmen said stumbling over her new Inner Sphere styled rank.
“Show me†she ordered moments later one of the screens changed showing a group of tanks firing on another group either side of a group of trees. There were infantry formations moving around them and what appeared to be Mechs. “No fusion signatures?†She noted “IndustrialMechs?†She wondered thinking of the Arbiter SecurityMechs in her own unit, which were little more than armed IndustrialMechs. The Clans and Inner Sphere would never use such units but here on the Periphery they made do with what they had.
“Possibly†the crewmen replied, the Mech-type units moved swiftly around the armoured vehicles supporting them, the Mechs looked small but highly mobile. “We also have a cluster of fusion signatures from this area in the east, looks like we might have a pair of DropShips?â€
“Local Drop Port in a desert†Sandra wondered looking over the ships, even from this distance Sandra could tell the ships were not operations missing parts of their hulls. “Maybe a junkyard or a military compound, any other signs of DropShips or other space craft?†Sandra asked frustrated, a Drop Port would be the perfect place to put down.
“None they seem fully stuck on the planet despite their number of armed units.â€
“They also seem to be stuck in a civil war of some sort.†Sandra said slightly annoyed, it seemed this planet would be far more of a find than any of them had ever expected. “All right we are landing here north of this MagLev line and city. As soon as we land we offload everyone and secure a perimeter, and then we will see where these people stand. If they come after us, we will strike the MagLev to cut off reinforcement.†She said watching the monitor again the “battle†they had seen before had tapered off now with the two forces pulling back rapidly, now the real interesting bit would start.
Moving from the bridge to her Shadow Cat Sandra felt the DropShip change its orientation and then felt the familiar “thud†of the vessel hitting the atmosphere. The planetary gravity soon began to pull the vessel down and Sandra could feel the real gravity under her feet, it felt like a normal g’ strength. Reaching the Mechbay she could see her Shadow Cat waiting her, the Mech had been hers from Clan Nova Cat and was of the advanced OmniMech type. Only five OmniMechs survived under Liger command since they had moved to the Rim Association, the rest had been destroyed or scavenged for parts. So far the Rim Association’s researchers on Niops had failed to reverse engineer any of the Clan technology they had been given. Beside the Shadow Cat were the other two true BattleMechs in her formation a medium class Nimravus salvaged from combat against the Federated Suns and a lighter Raven which had been taken during their stay on Herotitus. Across the bay were eight Arbiter SecurityMechs, more spoils from the Liger Warriors travels, which had been upgrade with Autocannons which replaced their ancient Rifles.
One deck below Sandra knew there were two Oro Heavy Tanks, two Hachiman Fire Support Tanks and ten Elemental Battle Armour suits all crewed by the same people who had come with her from Clan Nova Cat, it seemed a lifetime ago since those days. Sometimes Sandra pondered over where her life would have taken her if she had chosen not to betray the Clan who had given her birth… but that was not for today. “Bridge to Major Rimmer!†The comm. unit called raising her own personal comm. unit she answered them.
“Bridge this is Sandra†she said, she was still getting used to her new “surname†she truly wondered if she ever would.
“Major, the engines are suffering from heavy turbulence, once we are down I think it will be difficult to launch again.â€
“We could be stranded here?†She asked her heart sinking could this be why this world had fallen off the interstellar maps because once you landed you never left? She remembered seeing those broken down DropShips on the ground, could her ship be about to join them?
“I think we will be able to leave again sir, but the stresses on the hull mean that once we land we shouldn’t move again unless we’re trying to leave.†The crewmen answered his speech slurred by the contractions, right now however Sandra did not care, as long as this was not a single trip. “Regardless sir, it would be more damaging to try and reverse our course now.†He added as if reading her mind.
“Understood continue landing sequences. We will come to the problem of leaving after we have resolved the other issues on this world.†She answered as she removed her jumpsuit revealing just shorts and a t-shirt, the gear of a MechWarrior preparing for combat. She then quickly began her ascent to the top of her OmniMech. The DropShip around them continued to shudder heavily as it descended towards the ground; Sandra concentrated on getting her Shadow Cat powered and ready for potential combat. As the OmniMech came to life she saw the engineers had kept the Mech in her preferred Alpha configuration which mounted a pair of Extended Range Large Lasers and a Streak Short Range Missile (SRM) Launcher. The greatest asset an OmniMech had over all others were that its weapons, equipment and in some cases jump jets could all be switched between battles giving them more tactical flexibility. The battles the Ligers had gone through had robbed them of many of their OmniMechs but from what Sandra had heard recently the rebuilding factories and labs on Niops were close to a breakthrough to producing the Rim Association’s first home grown OmniMech.
As the Mechbay doors opened Sandra stepped her Shadow Cat out of its bay towards the doors, the DropShip was still over two hundred metres in the air but that wasn’t going to stop Sandra “Sierra One, Bridge, I will provide ground cover†she communicated to the bridge before stepping her Shadow Cat out of the doorway, immediately there was a strange sensation as the solid deck disappeared and the forty-five ton Mech began to fall, Sandra fought hard to avoid the temptation to interfere with the Mech’s fall. Within moments the fall had been slowed considerably as the Jump Jets mounted in the Shadow Cat’s back fired, normally used to provide additional mobility on the battlefield they were perfect for fast insertions. As her Mech dropped towards the ground Sandra could see seven of the small BattleMechs she’d seen before advancing over the sand dunes that dominated the scenery, she also noticed her comm. array was active. Flicking the switch to receive she heard the planet’s first words.
“Dark Caste force you are not welcome on Twin Sons leave now or be considered a hostile force.†A male voice declared, Sandra’s mind raced, how could this world cut off from the rest of the Free Worlds League and the greater Inner Sphere know of the Dark Caste? Or better yet how could they know her force was of the Dark Caste? She didn’t like to consider herself a member of the Dark Caste but there was little disputing it, even to her parent Clan she’d be considered to be little more than a bandit that needed to be hunted down.
“People of the Twin Sons†she started using the same name the enemy had used “this is Major Sandra Rimmer of the Liger Scout Company; we hail from the Rim Association. We come here to bring this world back into the Free Worlds League which it has been cut off from for so long.†She said as her Shadow Cat came into a land, the seven Mechs she had seen were still approaching.
“Dark Caste, we know your ship and your technology†Leave now and we will not consider you hostile. Inform Port Arthur that these incursions are an act of war.†The man repeated, Sandra had no idea what or who Port Arthur was but had quite enough of threats.
“Twin Sons defenders, I am very willing to defend myself, and my people. I did not come here for war but if you bring it, I will answer.†She said defiantly swapping communication channels “Sierra One to control, have made contact with natives consider them hostile. Command Lance deploy to the North-West. Alpha One through four and all Echo units attack targets of opportunity. Support Group One and two deploy to North-East and South-West flanks, targets of opportunity but do not pursue any target. Control try to keep out of this fight, I don’t want the DropShip targeted if we can help it.†She ordered, she saw a variety of clicks and acknowledgements from her people before turning back to her incoming targets. “All forces shoot to disable not destroy I want prisoners.â€
The seven defenders could barely be classed as Mech’s; even Sandra’s squat Shadow Cat completely dwarfed the largest of them. Between them they were about six to eight metres in height according to her advanced Active Probe scanner they weighed between ten and fifteen tons – Ultra-lights. Also according to her scanners none of the incoming designs had fusion engines which were common in BattleMechs. As they came into view Sandra saw that the designs were similar but different most had either angular or circular armour plating, an arm mounted cannon and a shoulder mounted missile pack, although they varied in size and Sandra guessed capability.
Moments of quiet passed as Sandra watched the defenders move from sand-dune to sand-dune then felt the rapid “ting-ting-ting†as her Shadow Cat took its first piece of damage, she glanced at the armour graph on the left of her cockpit some armour damage. The computer designated the weapon as a machine gun. She glanced at her target, a six metre design to her left with angular armour plate on one shoulder was a grenade launcher or a mortar on the other a missile pack while carried in the right arm was what looked like a massive infantry machine gun. Sandra looked at the design for a second time trying to confirm what she’d seen… yes… the main gun was a “carried†weapon. She had no interest in letting her own curiosity hold back her attack instead twisting her Mech’s turret-like torso she fired off a laser blast from the Shadow Cat’s left arm.
The green laser blast burned through the air in seconds impacting the small design’s left side almost instantly the entire left torso of the Mech caved in taking the grenade launcher and left arm with is. Metal fell to the ground as parts flew off the ultra-light before the entire Mech fell to the ground, the enemy Mech wasn’t out of the fight but it was disabled for now. “Sierra One all units, these guys are ultra-light, conservative firing don’t over tax your cooling systems.†She ordered feeling more weapons fire this time on her other side, not bothering to move her Mech she twisted the Shadow Cat’s torso and spied two more of the ultra-light machines trying to hide behind a rock as they fired their machine guns. One was the same as the design she’d just knocked down the other slightly bigger with the same angular plates. As she looked at them they both fired their shoulder pack missiles at her Shadow Cat.
As she had barely moved the Shadow Cat was a sitting target and suddenly missiles from both designs were smashing into the armour. The damage schematic glowed under each hit as armour was blown away by the enemies fire, Sandra could tell by the feel of the impacts these were like short range missiles pelting her OmniMech. Enough was enough she launched her Mech into the air on its jump jets throwing off their machine gun fire. In the air she targeted her SRM pack, the Streak technology built into the launcher ensuring her missiles waited until lock before firing, six missiles flew away impacting on the first design, several hit the designs left leg while others hit the torso. Sandra could see the ultra-light’s leg was crippled as was the missile launcher. Turning on the other design she fired her other large laser, the green blast tore down on the second machine bathing its head and torso section in light. Normally a head shot was not a kill shot with a large laser like Sandra’s but this one was the entire cockpit crumbled under the blast.
As Sandra’s Mech landed she looked at her sensors realizing these designs have quite light head and cockpit armour, the slightest hit was causing a breach. She watched as the remaining designs began a fighting withdrawal pulling back, they had impressive mobility able to “hop†over small sand dunes and dodge some obstacles which larger Mechs would need Jump Jets to clear. Looking around she realized her other units were deploying and these people had seen they were far out gunned. Activating her comms she spoke again “Twin Suns defenders, we do not want war.†She said it was short and simple hopefully they understood “Echo One secure disabled target designated Tango One. Echo Six secure disabled target designated Tango Two. I want their pilots captured alive.†She ordered her Elemental points, the armoured warriors lept into the air on their own jump jets towards the two heavily damaged targets both of which were struggling to move under their own power. “Alpha One, secure wreckage Tango Three, maybe we will learn something from it.†She said ‘other than they are suicide machines?’ she silently wondered to herself. First contact with a new world shame it hadn’t been peaceful, these people had spirit exactly what the Association needed if it was going to survive.
-
Rim Association Expansion
Twin Sons, Former Free Worlds League
26th August 3086
The armour damage to Sandra’s Shadow Cat seemed to be the least of her unit’s problem according to the DropShips commander the long modified Fortress-class vessel had taken a severe beating in the entry through this planet’s atmosphere. The damage was repairable but they would need parts, which currently they didn’t have, considering this planet’s obvious well developed industry these should be easy to come by but that meant making friends. After the first encounter Sandra wasn’t entirely convinced that would be easy. However she had decided that there would be not harm in trying. Nightfall was quickly approaching but the temperature was still massive, the name “twin suns†seemed appropriate despite the defenders, although listening over the recordings from the battle Sandra was sure he’d said “twin SONS†a strange name for a world but it was up to the inhabitants to choose their name and their fate.
The DropShip’s long range sensors had tracked the surviving defenders back towards a settlement in the far north east just beyond some mountains. It was easily a three day trek at the speed of their slowest member. Sandra though it was stranger as there was an equally large settlement to the south of their coordinates within half a day’s travel. Sandra guessed they hadn’t wanted to cross the DropShips weapon arcs to retreat to a friendly base but it was still quite strange. Although tonight there was no sign of incoming enemies she had chosen to have one Star outside the DropShip on patrol at all times, for four hours at a time. Already Support Group One had reported their Arbiters were struggling with the increased heat which surprised Sandra as the enemy machines had shown little to no ill effects from the heat perhaps they had been conditioned for this environment? She’d wondered her techs were looking over the two salvaged Mechs now so far all they had reported was both were of the same design, powered with Fuel Cells and both were crippled. One of the techs as said the word marvel at least once as he’d crawled over the design personally Sandra hadn’t seen the attraction what was left of the Mech came in at a little over nine tons, a complete Mech would be ten tons. That was barely bigger than some of the Clan’s ProtoMech designs and their combat performance had been little better. Their hand held weapons were of interest, they were styled as if they were enlarged infantry weapons but their combat performance had shown they could match a Mech sized machine gun easily weighing in at a ton total weight it was quite a weapon.
Unfortunately that was almost all they had gained from today’s exercise, the pilot from the first Mech had escaped from his downed machine the second warrior from the Mech with the crippled leg was currently unconscious from neural feedback from the warrior’s neurolhelmet. The design of the helmet was quite advanced according to the techs, perhaps as advanced as the Clan’s own models but of a different design with extra circuitry the techs didn’t recognize. Hopefully they would understand what these changes were when the pilot woke up, if he woke up. With so many mysteries Sandra turned in for the night hoping for an easier day tomorrow.
Unfortunately this world’s climate made sleeping at night almost impossible; the DropShip seemed to bake even with the sun down and the temperatures dropping to minus twenty-one outside. It made the Mech patrols easier although not it appeared to be problems with sand getting into their joints. Sitting on the edge of her bunk in the morning Sandra was beginning to think she knew why the world had been abandoned, and why the native Mech units were so light. Reaching the cargo bay in the morning she brought all the warriors in her command around. “Ladies and gentlemen, we are on what appears to be quite a hostile world, or at least this region of it is.†She said looking around she noticed few of them had gotten much sleep “we cannot let it get to us. I am going to take my star to the city to the south. If we are attacked we will divert to the maglev and eliminate it, cutting off reinforcements from at least one direction. Both other Stars will remain here and provide support for the DropShip’s defence. I also want you to look at the captured equipment, see if there is anything we can use or that can help us in combat against them.
“Major, the techs get the Mechs working can we test them?†One of the Arbiter pilots asked, he like most of the Arbiter pilots was a native of the Niops worlds and although the Arbiter was a solid design for a light it lacked any sense of styling.
“I’ve instructed the techs to cannibalize one design to repair the other. If they can repair the Mech without using our spare part cache AND interface one of our neurohelmets with the design, you can play with it.†She noticed several smiles from the Arbiter contingent “but I want it understood, the captured neurolhelmet must not be used under any circumstances. If you want to see the results of its use have a look in the infirmary.â€
“Star Major†Captain Steven Nova Cat said quietly he was a freeborn member of the Ligers and still held onto many of the Clan customs including her abridged rank. “If you don’t return from this incursion what are your orders?â€
“To the North-west there is a small settlement with what appears to be several DropShips. Your orders are to gain access to these DropShips by any means necessary. Get the parts you need for the engines and report our findings to Lesnovo. Our people need to know of this world and the potential wealth that can be had here before one of the other Free Worlds League nations stumbled over it.â€
Several hours later Sandra’s star was approaching the settlement limits immediately a group of defenders, of various designs, moved forward and Sandra’s communications activated. “Incoming Dark Caste force we do not welcome combat within Khayr Ad-Din. This is home to the gladiator games and fair trade. Watch your step.†The communication warned then the machines moved off without another word. Sandra noticed her star channel was also active and swapped over to it.
“Major, I really wish these people would stop calling us Dark Caste Quiaff?†Elemental Point Commander Jonathon said
“Aff, point commander I would also like to know where they have heard of the Dark Caste. We are a long way from the Clan borders Quiaff?†She asked moments passed as the Elemental thought over the question that had bothered her since the first mention of the name.
“Aff a question worthy of an answer. Especially since this world was supposed to be lost for centuries? It does not make sense for them to know of the Dark Caste.†He mused
“Aff, there is something very wrong on this world, star keep your ears open I want answers almost as much as I want parts for our ship.†She ordered lights winked as everyone acknowledged her orders. They moved slowly into the city, which was a cross between a trade post and what appeared to be some sort of junkyard. They were led into a small corralled area; people seemed wary of them but no-one acted hostile towards them. Sandra brought her Mech into the area then began a power down sequence she removed the Gauss SMG from the rear of her ejection seat, one of the bonuses of it being a former Nova Cat OmniMech. Climbing towards the ground she slung the weapon over her shoulder one of the Elementals approached her she saw the silver star on the helmet of the Battle Armour suit showing it as a Point Commander’s suit. “Point Commander, secure this area, I am going to take a walk around.â€
“Do you require an escort? This does not appear to be the most lawful of places.†The warrior said Sandra could tell even through the voice synthesizer that it was Point Commander Daniel.
“Neg, Elementals tend to stick out even out of your armour.†She answered “I will be fine, ensure this area remains secure do not engage any of the locals other than in defence.â€
“Aff, Major I understand.†He answered. Sandra nodded and headed out of the compound into the street her uniform jacket was torn in places from wear and tear it didn’t look like an active military uniform although her weapon did mark her out as did her fair skin and dark hair. Looking around the streets she could seem most people had heavily sun tanned skin and lighter shades of hair, bleached naturally by the sun, several also had strange markings on their face like intricate tattoos. She decided the best idea to find out more about the area was to simply mingle around the streets listening and observing the world around her.
Several streets over she had seen almost twenty different cultures all vying for position with trade deals or negotiations. She’d noticed several different languages and hundreds of dialects this settlement seemed to be a meeting and trade place for this world which made sense given the maglev line access to north and south. On several of the video screens she’d also noticed Mechs fighting in what looked like arenas of rubble like a mini Solaris based in this city. It seemed that this place was where everything happened, it also appeared that this was a place one could lose everything they had to a single act. Stopping in the street she spoke out loudly and clearly “I did not come here to fight.†She said slowly turning facing the three men who had followed her for several streets. They wore a mix of clothing that looked like it had been worn for several years and been through a couple of wars, each was armed but they had no weapons drawn.
“Perhaps not Dark Caste, but you did come with a weapon. And that says to us you want a fight, or you want to give it away?†Sandra drew the weapon around her body but did not raise it “a fight perhaps†the leader said as the two others moved out to the sides drawing bladed weapons. She could take one out with a burst of fire but the others would be on her.
“I just came to trade†she repeated
“So did we, it’s called the five finger trade, we put in five fingers and you give us all your things.†The leader said, suddenly there was a flash of movement to Sandra’s left as one of the muggers was picked up by a huge man and thrown across the street. He impacted the wall with an audible thud and slipped down to the ground unconscious. Glancing at him Sandra could tell the man was an Elemental by birth even lacking Battle Armour, his clothing was like the locals so she couldn’t tell what Clan he had come from but he was clearly capable of fighting unaugmented.
“Now how is that a way to speak to a lady?†The Elemental boomed his voice was deep, Sandra could see he was older than most Clan warriors easily into his forties. He stood more than ready for a fight however, both remaining assailants must have gotten the same impression as after a moment standing up to the newcomer they turned and ran. As they escaped the Elemental roared in laughter “willing to stand up to someone with a gun but not to a single warrior!†He shouted after the men “come back when you are ready for a war.†He laughed again turning towards Sandra “welcome to Twin Sons newcomer, I can tell by your accent a former member of Kerensky’s Clans Quiaff?†He asked looking Sandra up and down.
“Aff, after a fashion†Sandra answered “I am Sandra Rimmer of the Rim Association.†She introduced herself still holding her Gauss SMG in her hands. Against an Elemental it was her best hope to stay armed.
“A nation I have never heard of and a claimed name of no Clans.†He said looking her up and down once more “I guess it can only be expected when departed from ones Clan. I am Michael Furey, former Star Captain of Clan Smoke Jaguar†he introduced himself bowing slightly but given his massive frame he barely reached the top of Sandra’s head with a bow. Sandra was even more on edge by the introduction; the Smoke Jaguars had been long enemies of Clan Nova Cat.
“I am Sandra Nova Cat, formerly Star Captain of Clan Nova Cat.†She said her grip tightening on the SMG. The Elemental looked shocked at her announcement then roared into laughter.
“Who would have thought a Nova Cat and a Smoke Jaguar her of all places after all these years†he continued to laugh, Sandra wondered if he had taken a drink or two before hand given his jovial mood or perhaps it was the fight. “We should have a drink and food while we talk, come†he ordered turning his back to her walking off “as long as there’s no iron wombs or dead animals around I think we’ll get on just fine.†He laughed again as he walked down the street, Sandra had a choice she could walk away there was nothing stopping her. Looking at the downed mugger she thought that following the former Smoke Jaguar and knowing who he was and how he was here was better than knowing nothing. Today was continuing to be a surprising and interesting day, she silently wondered how it would end as she followed Michael Furey, everyone kept a respectful distance from him which was a nice change to the hustle and bustle of the city at least one thing was looking up.
-
Rim Association Expansion
Twin Sons, Former Free Worlds League
26th August 3086
A couple of streets over there was a small bar with seats and tables out facing the street. Furey sat down on one of the metal chairs; it sagged under his bulk but didn’t cave in. Sandra sat opposite him “barkeep†Furey bellowed at the staff behind the bar “freebirths†he said smirking looking at Sandra, the waiter came over he couldn’t have been older than eighteen years old with sandy blonde hair. “Two of my usual†Furey ordered Sandra remained quiet.
“How does a Clan Bloodnamed warrior become a usual at a place like this?†Sandra asked without thinking
“When your Clan falls and no-one lifts a finger to stop it, you have little option I am afraid†Sandra opened her mouth to speak. The Nova Cats and Smoke Jaguars were never friends; in fact they were blood enemies for centuries. She was sure had things been different and the Nova Cats been in a position to help they still wouldn’t have. “For the past…†he said quietly as the waiter arrived back with their drinks, without ceremony Furey lifted the mug to his lips and drank several large mouthfuls of the drink. Sandra was more cautious sniffing the glass first before taking a sip of the liquid in her mouth, it was probably the strongest thing she’d ever tasted it nipped her throat all the way to her stomach. Her reaction must have been noticed because Furey burst into laughter once more.
“So how does a Smoke Jaguar end up here in a forgotten corner of the Free Worlds League?†She asked testing the waters, Furey’s face immediately darkened.
“When the Smoke Jaguars were struck down I was aboard a troop transport heading to the Inner Sphere along with some garrison units. I had recently won my bloodname and was rising within the Smoke Jaguars ready for the challenge of the Inner Sphere.†He began Sandra nodded winning a bloodname was the highlight of ones career in any Clan. “When news filtered down that the Smoke Jaguars had been forced from the Inner Sphere our commander a Star Colonel Phillip Osis forced the JumpShip captain to take us on a tour of the Periphery. We raided some Lyran worlds, but rapidly Osis was losing patience with the garrison forces on his DropShips, they were a burden he didn’t want to deal with.†Furey explained Sandra nodded she knew what Clan officers were like with none MechWarriors and Elementals they didn’t have time for Armour or Conventional Infantry forces. “We raided some FWL targets, one of the armour stars got bogged down, he left them to die at the hands of some Free Worlds League Legionaries forces. Ten vehicle crews dead, we jumped here, my captain had already agreed that this system would be his DropShips last with Osis’ JumpShip. We detached as did two others from the JumpShip Osis never even communicated with us the JumpShip just jumped away. When we reached the planet we found it was inhabitable but that it was clear there was a break between north and south, we chose to land between them.â€
“Like us, do not ally with one until you know the story.â€
“Exactly!†Furey exclaimed a little louder than Sandra had expected “two Lions and a single Fortress not exactly front-line Clan ships but all solid vessels. Then we experienced this worlds atmosphere everything changed, all three ships were old past their retirement age, but the Smoke Jaguars couldn’t replace them. We came down a few kilometres north-west of this city intact but shaken.â€
“What did you have?†Sandra curious about the Smoke Jaguars forces
“A vehicle cluster, a single star of Elementals with Battle Armour and seventy-five further elementals with no armour along with nearly two hundred civilian engineers and scientists we were transporting to the Inner Sphere.â€
“That is way over capacity; you must have been squabbling over each other just to sleep at night, Quiaff?â€
“Aff†Furey confirmed “on this world even in the baking heat we had a refuge from where to plan our next move. As Smoke Jaguars we did as we were bread to do, to conquer. Our technology immediately gave us an advantage and we soon had cut a sizable amount of territory out of the Badlands, which is this region, the Confederated Northern States of Cameron Marik, which dominates the Northern hemisphere, and the Allied States of John Marik to the south. Unfortunately they banded together, something that has never happened on this forsaken world, and began forcing us back over ourselves, for every piece of territory we took they forced us back.†He explained.
“Cameron and John Marik?†Sandra asked not knowing the names
“Bastard twin sons of Captain General Simone Marik, she gifted them this world in 2740 as their personal playground. They split this world up and created their own nations to play wargames on; limiting the technology to Fuel Cell engines was their way of keeping the violence from getting out of control. Training Mechs were placed on this world for their games; live-ammunition kills even if it’s on a smaller scale. As it turned out their choice to limit the size of machine on this world saved my people’s lives, we had no BattleMechs of our own but our tanks out massed even their largest Mechs two to one. Even as they pushed us back it would take three or four of them to take one of our units down, in the end they got tired of the war their alliance broke and we held onto Port Arthur, the town we landed on.â€
“And you have been stuck here ever since, amazing.†Sandra said quietly she saw Furey’s expression darken “not that you have been stuck here but that we would meet. We are both Clan warriors without a Clan.†She stated Furey did not reply “but where you have been abandoned by your commander, my commander took his unit to a refuge, the Rim Association. Our nation is a small member of the former Free Worlds League, but we are growing, we came here scouting out possible worlds for conquest.â€
“It would not be easy to take this world, even with a Mech force.â€
“True, but how about if we could provide your Elementals with Nighthawk Power Armour suits?†Sandra asked immediately Furey’s face brightened “we have a Power Armour manufacturing plant on Niops it has survived from the time of the Star League, and is on the verge of producing our first true Battle Armour suit.†Furey smiled at those words “Smoke Jaguars and Nova Cats together against the Free Worlds League.â€
“It would be glorious.†Furey said smiling “how can this be done?â€
“An alliance between the Ligers and your people, together we will forge the future of the Rim Association, but first I hope you have something my people desperately need? My DropShip was crippled when we landed here.â€
“Our ship is fully operational but has no fuel, we traded it for supplies to get Port Arthur on its feet, if we could move our parts to your ship or your fuel to ours then we would have a working ship.â€
“Will your people agree to my ideas?†Sandra asked their past could stop the whole thing and leave Sandra’s people stranded here also.
“Aff, I believe they can be convinced as long as our territory here is supported and protected.†Furey warned “our people have built a home here; Port Arthur was nothing before we came.â€
“It can and will be supported, we are not finished with this world.â€
“Well bargained and done†Furey stated standing up flipping a coin onto the table, Sandra guessed in payment for their drinks “I know where you landed, I will have people come to you and together we will retake the stars.†He stated stepping out onto the street, Sandra followed closely banging into Furey as he came to a stop “it seems our friends went and found more support†across the street there were nearly twenty men staring at them all armed with knives and swords “you are ready, Quiaff?†He asked moving his cloak slightly.
“Aff†Sandra said raising her SMG as the first of the men began to charge she fired. Furey drew a slug-thrower of his own and also began to fire. The first rank of men fell quickly in a hail of fire but the second rank trampled over them and continued to charge Sandra quickly switched targets and continued to fire as Furey engaged them in hand-to-hand combat.
Sandra’s SMG finally ran empty with still half a dozen men moving in, Furey was still standing and fighting but even the massive Elemental couldn’t hold them forever. Sandra steadied herself for hand-to-hand combat and likely her death as the men continued to close, but suddenly the air was full of lead and noise as above several machine guns opened fire as one tearing down into the six men who were approaching. At least a dozen bystanders were caught in the hail of fire as all six men were gunned down. As the fire died down she stepped out into the open to see five Elementals standing on the rooftops, they’d tracked her down. The men fighting Furey ran away as quickly as they could at the sight of the armoured Elementals the former Smoke Jaguar warrior bloodied from a large gash above his eye looked up at the Battle Armour Point and burst into laughter. “Never thought I’d be happy to see Nova Cat Elementals†he shouted waving up to them. “The people of Khayr Ad-Din do not like violence outside their arenas. Come to Port Arthur, we will rise again.†He said looking around Furey marched off into the crowds, despite his size he was soon lost in the crowds. Sandra surveyed the scene, the people of this city had been caught in the crossfire, it hadn’t been intentional but the blood of this world was yet again on her hands, perhaps in the future the people who lived here would understand.
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Rim Association Expansion
Twin Sons, Former Free Worlds League
26th August 3086
The Liger unit quickly moved from the city and returned to their DropShip, the entire journey security forces and individual native machines approached them but none engaged them. The entire time they had been away the DropShip had been approached by three groups of Mechs, none had attacked the crippled vessel or the defending units.
“We need to trust these people that they have the parts that we need, and that once clear of this world they will work with us and not against us?†Captain Hannibal Stevens asked, his ship was stuck on this planet without the parts but he still wasn’t convinced.
“They are our best chance of getting off this planet in once piece†Sandra reminded Stevens who nodded but still didn’t look happy. “I understand how everyone feels about this paring and about the Smoke Jaguars but these people are Clan Warriors who were wronged by their own people and the other Clans, sound familiar? She asked specifically looking at the former Nova Cats in the gathering. They have parts and critical intelligence that we need so we are going to work with them. Captain Stevens, I need your best tech in one of the Oros, they will need to access the parts when we get a look at them. I will take my Star to the Smoke Jaguar’s encampment at Port Arthur, we will access the parts and return. The rest of you are to remain on high alert.â€
“Major, one Star could probably protect the DropShip why not take my unit as well, we could move more quickly.â€
“Neg, 2 units remain to defend the DropShip, if this landing site was to get over-run we would be in a lot more trouble. Also none of your Mechs have hands so they couldn’t do much.†She pointed out
“Major, how about the home-grown Mech we captured, it’s operational and works with our neurohelmets,†One of the MechWarriors said Sandra looked at the Master Tech who nodded.
“It’s operational after a fashion. The grenade launcher was not repairable on either salvaged Mech so we removed it. She now carries a single four tube SRM rack, no ammo protection as there wasn’t time to redesign all the bays but if you need it…†His voice trailed off Sandra could see many eager faces from the Arbiter pilots and a couple of bondsmen, who the Ligers had taken before settling in the Rim Association, she knew they were more eager for combat.
“Aff, we will take it. Star Commander Matthew will arrange Trials of Possession for the design; whoever wins will pilot it in support of my star. Dismissed†she ordered the warriors moved off leaving her standing the Master Tech also stayed “honest opinion on the design?â€
“Death trap, even carrying that over sized machine gun the pilot is under-gunned and under protected†he said honestly “but it’s fast easily able to keep up with your Shadow Cat on the ground, speaking of which are you happy with your weapons or want a change?†He asked referring to her OmniMech, Clan weapons and parts were at a premium for the Liger Warriors but Sandra knew the Master Tech had a few extra weapons stored away.
“Give me configuration F, with plenty cluster rounds for the canon, these guys have not got much armour so it should cut them down easily Quiaff?â€
“Aff, the lasers will help too.†He commented walking off to his assembled Techs.
The next morning they were ready for the journey to Port Arthur MechWarrior David Ramirez a citizen of the Niops worlds had qualified as the Hunter’s new pilot so Sandra had two BattleMechs, four vehicles and five of the Elementals, who would ride aboard the Shadow Cat’s back. “Move out ladies and gentlemen†Sandra ordered they moved out at a respectful pace of around sixty kilometres per hour, both the Shadow Cat and Hunter could exceed the speed but the vehicles couldn’t, in places they would have to move even slower due to the desert sand. After an hour they encountered their first problem, a group of seven BattleMechs shadowing the unit, unlike the previous Mech with the slanted armour these Mechs were more rounded and were larger than the units previously encountered and all seemed to have the ability to lock their legs and “drive†their legs with wheels or tracks in the feet.
Moving swiftly past the Liger formation all seven units showered Sandra’s Star with missile and rocket fire supplemented by machine gun and Mech sized mortars. Two of the enemy designs were at least as large as a normal light BattleMech but were slower with Fuel Cell engines and carried weapons. Both the Hachimann and Oros were twisting their turrets tracking the enemy but were taking damage, while David Ramirez Hunter took several hits but stayed up returning fire with his Mech’s retrofitted SRM launcher. Launching into the air on with her Shadow Cat’s Jump Jet twisting the turret style torso she brought her weapons along one of the enemy designs. Pulling the primary trigger the shotgun style Autocannon nestled in her Mech’s torso fired a cluster round all over one of the enemy Mechs. At the same time she fired all four of the Mech’s arm mounted Medium Lasers, three slashed over the enemy Mech’s armour burning away armour and tearing off the shoulder mounted Mortar. As the Shadow Cat continued its arc back towards the ground the five Elementals that had been hanging onto the OmniMech’s back jumped off onto another of the enemy BattleMechs. The pilot had obviously encountered an Elemental swarm attack before and didn’t panic but it did tie up the pilot for several moments.
The paired Oro 2s and the two Hachimans bombarded the enemy Mechs with autocannon, laser and missile fire. Within a minute five of the seven enemy Mechs were dead and burning. Sandra twisted her Mech back towards her initial target and saw it was in retreat along with the other Mech of the same design. Targeting both Sandra fired a pair of Medium Lasers into both Mechs. Each Mech was only hit by a single laser but that was enough to knock both to the ground, the previously hit Mech exploded as it fell sending the other cartwheeling through the air on fire both were out of the fight.
Continuing their journey the Liger Star wasn’t approached again by native forces, although the entire time they were shadowed by a growing number of enemy Mechs, armoured vehicles and infantry. Reaching Port Arthur instantly they could see the locally built buildings were dominated by the three DropShips and by the former Smoke Jaguar vehicles. At the front gate of the settlement was a pair of Ares Main Battle Tanks still painted in classic Smoke Jaguar greys on the walls surrounding the town was a pair of Hachiman Support Tanks, which matched Sandra’s own vehicles. Within the settlement Sandra was sure she had seen a massive Mars Assault Tank, which was the largest armoured vehicle ever built by the Clans. Sitting in her Shadow Cat’s warm cockpit Sandra worried about the former Smoke Jaguar warriors going back on their deal, after seeing this firepower she wondered if her force could seize the correct parts by force.
Fortunately for the Ligers after a few tense moments Michael Furey and a group of unarmoured Elementals arrived and spoke with the Armour troops. The two tanks then moved aside and allowed them to enter. It was like the people of Port Royal had never seen a BattleMech before when the Shadow Cat walked down the street, with massive crowds coming out onto the street to see the Liger force, they were led to a small military compound built around the three DropShips. Amazingly the DropShips were built into the compound with glass corridors connecting the DropShips to various buildings of the compound. Dismounting from her Mech Sandra met with Michael Furey at the foot of the Shadow Cat “seems like you people were busy on the way here Quiaff?â€
“Aff, a group of local machines attacked up, we fought them off.†Sandra said as more of her people arrived “this is Technician Caitlyn, she’s one of our best Techs, and if you have the parts she can identify them.â€
“Of course this is Tony Abernethy he is our senior technician, he can show her what we have. I will give you a tour if you are willing?â€
“As long as my people are well cared for I am all yours.†Sandra answered, it felt strange but what was not strange on this planet? Hopefully the parts were here so she could escape this world. Of course they would still have to remove the parts without damaging them, fight through the forces outside Port Arthur, travel back to their own DropShip, fit the parts and then try to ascend through the atmosphere. All in a days work…
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Rim Association Expansion
Twin Sons, Former Free Worlds League
26th August 3086
The facilities the former Smoke Jaguars had built on Twin Sons was impressive considering the limited resources they had. Sandra was conscious that much of the resources that had been used to build this world had been taken but they impressive none the less. “We can currently field a Trinary of these Tanks and a single star of the heavier machine. They are superior to anything the locals can field and have almost as much mobility as your Shadow Cat if not the overall mobility.†Furey was explaining as he and Sandra stood in one of the DropShip’s main bays. In front of her was a hovertank like none she had ever seen, powered by a fusion engine, which was exceedingly rare on this world, it had eight missile tubes on the turret and a single cannon which Furey described as a Star League-era Light Particle Cannon, the first energy weapon developed on this world. Sandra remained quiet over the fact that LPPCs as they were known in the Inner Sphere were quite common since their re introduction in the early 3080s, for them to have been developed on this world from simple plans was mightily impressive.
That was not to say the Smoke Jaguars had been completely unlucky, despite being abandoned by their Mech Commander they had found themselves under solid leadership in Furey and a couple of other Bloodnamed Elementals, and they had found their civilians were not just useful for manual labour. Away from the constraints of the Clan caste system they had proven capable techs, engineers and scientists. With working knowledge of Clan built weapons and equipment they had turned sheet metal into active systems. “We have also captured at least a dozen of the local ultra-light Mech machines, the locals insist on calling them “Gears†where the term came from I have no idea. We have had limited success in repairing and using them, the local neurohelmets do not appear entirely safe to use. You on the other hand…†He said looking out the bay door at the rebuilt Hunter.
“Aff, we had additional neurohelmets ready for salvage operations in case we had been lucky to encounter enemy Mech forces, the units are compatible with standard neurohelmets. Unfortunately I have not pilots or helmets with me at the moment.â€
“Perhaps when we take the parts to your ship we could borrow them? A gesture of goodwill to secure our alliance, Quiaff?†He asked obviously hoping for their use.
“I believe that may be possibly, Niops builds us plenty of additional helmets, despite the damage the Marians thought they were doing the system is a gold mine.†She said she couldn’t be happier with the planet and its production she noticed that Furey looked worried. “As could this world be Michael, Twin Sons is possibly the most developed world we have seen in this region of the Free Worlds League, something your people can be very proud about.â€
“Even with our past? This world’s difficult atmosphere? And the warring factions on this world and its overall primitive technology base? Quinegâ€
“It has ways to go but in time I could see this world being a powerhouse of the Rim Association, with places for all its people.†Sandra said carefully Michael’s points were all very valid ones but this world still had a lot of potential. “First we have other problems, namely being that blockade force out there between us and our DropShip. My people do not have the firepower to do it alone.â€
“Neg, but we do together. My light trinary will launch a diversionary attack on Mekong, the largest settlement to the south capable of launching this kind of attack. The leader there is an old fool who claims he is the direct descendant of John Marik himself and that one day he will be leader of the greater Free Worlds League which is his destiny.†Furey laughed at the thought of the old man “the sight of our Hovercraft will panic him and have his armour forces driving for the south. At that point my heavy star will hit the north flank of the Southern force, my Battle Armour force will ride aboard our transport vehicle and provide close defence for the equipment. Your star can escort us through the battle, once clear my light force will pull back and the battle will end.â€
“Just like that, won’t they chase you back into the city?â€
“Neg, they are afraid of what we could have in this city, my heavy armour force will remain on defence and they do not know Megiddo is still not operational.â€
“Megiddo?†Sandra asked unaware of anything by that name
“Something for your next visit and a mystery that will ensure your return. Trust me Major it is something worth returning for.†Furey said roaring with more laughter.
“I’ll have to hold you to that.†Sandra said smiling, for a Smoke Jaguar Sandra found Furey to be a decent person in his own way, despite the obvious alcohol abuse he seemed to know a lot about this world and its people.
Rim Association Expansion
Twin Sons, Former Free Worlds League
27th August 3086
The next morning came rapidly. The thirty light hovercraft used their jump jets to leap the far wall of Port Arthur completely avoiding the blockade force. According to Furey the design for the jump jets and the computer that controlled them was a direct copy of those found on an Kanga Jump Tank which had been lost in battle. The lighter machines only weighed in at thirty tons which according to Furey made the jump jets slightly more unpredictable while the heavier unit matched the Kanga’s fifty ton size making them more reliable. As the light machines shot across the sands of the Badlands Sandra noted the units were already gaining some attention from light units of the blockade, almost immediately tracked and wheeled units that had supplemented the blockade forces Mechs were beginning to turn towards south, a large artillery unit fired several rounds at the hovercraft but they were moving far too quickly to be caught. Soon after the ten heavier Smoke Jaguar hovercraft leapt over the north wall these gaining far less attention than the lighter units had gathered. Furey explained that it would take at least an hour for the heavier units to move into position, around the same time the lighter machines would be approaching Mekong in the south gaining more attention of the blockade force.
Now Sandra sat in her Shadow Cat’s cockpit checking her systems for what seemed like the twentieth time. On her Mech’s back were the five Elementals of her star. Flanking the two large transport vehicles were both her Oro and Hachiman Tanks while David Ramirez in his Hunter stood beside her Shadow Cat. On the transport vehicles were twenty-five Smoke Jaguar Elementals in Battle Armour, all their units lacked the missile packs normally found on Clan units, these Elementals having long ago used their missiles in combat. Still twenty-five suits was not an insignificant force, one of them was Michael Furey who had insisted on joining the battle despite his advanced age.
“Jag One to Sierra One†Furey called “our strike force is engaging as we speak, we go in five minutes let their attention be taken.â€
“Aff, standing by all Liger call-signs stand read, homebase we are preparing to leave Port Arthur, be ready for combat to come your way if we cannot disengage.†She warned her DropShip, if the south force did not choose to disengage like Furey suspected this could be a very long day.
“We are ready Major†Sandra nodded they were ready, whatever happened, former Nova Cats and Smoke Jaguars on a forgotten world ready to walk into combat together. How life was a funny thing Sandra though grimly as the clock ran down to zero.
“All call-signs, we are go protect the cargo transports and may our visions guide us, our armour protect us and our weapons do all the talking we have no words for.†She said it was an impromptu speech but it embodied everything they needed today their future would be decided, stay here or return to the Rim Association, either way Sandra believed she would be happy. But victory was the ultimate happiness.
Even with heavy defence fire from the Smoke Jaguar vehicles based in Port Arthur the blockading Mechs immediately opened fire on Sandra’s unit as soon as it left the settlement. Fortunately most of the enemy units had only a single salvo with their missiles before being reduced to machine guns. Some of the larger units the size of a twenty-five ton BattleMech seemed to move like assaults and were far heavily armed with multiple missile launchers on their “stumpy†arms. The Mechs reminded Sandra of a Locust. Beside them slightly smaller machines armed with what looked like mortars, grenade launchers and massive arrays of rockets were the next problem.
“Point 2 and Three, you need to concentrate on defending those transports work with the Elementals on board them but keep fire against them to a total minimum.†She ordered dodging a flight of missiles from one of the smaller machines before returning fire with a pair of Medium Lasers. “Point 6, keep mobile you don’t have the firepower or the armour for a stand up fight.†She ordered David Ramirez “Do not allow us to become bogged down, keep moving forward even if one of our units is downed. We get their parts to the DropShip or we are stuck here.†A group of lights winked out as all her people acknowledged her orders the point of Battle Armour on her back didn’t bother to reply instead acting as Elementals tended to do launching into the air assaulting a pair of enemy Mechs. Missiles shot from their backs as they downed one Mech with ten Missiles before landing on a second enemy Mech beginning one of their feared swarm attacks.
Happy her people knew what they were doing Sandra charged her Mech forward at the cluster of enemy machines that anchored the centre of the enemy formation. As she closed she triggered her Mech’s torso mounted autocannon as quickly as it would reload smashing all six of the Mechs with cluster rounds. Individually they were smaller and slower than her Shadow Cat but together they could be a serious threat. Both of the “locust†type Mechs opened fire with short range missile launchers and an under nose mounted cannon nipping away at her OmniMech’s armour. Looking at the damage Sandra guessed the cannon was actually a big machine gun or some sort of primitive cannon as it did little damage while the SRMs behaved exactly like Short Range Missiles, together they would be a problem.
Launching her Mech into the air Sandra cut off a barrage of laser fire into one of the Mechs coring much of the armour. She saw some sort of internal explosion as the cannon went offline but otherwise the Mech stood up to the fire. Around her Shadow Cat the air was filled with missiles and rockets as her enemy tried to track the leaping OmniMech, several missiles tagged the Shadow Cat’s back as it began to fall back to the ground. Ignoring the fire Sandra concentrated on bringing her Mech down on its feet. Stumbling as it landed Sandra saw the left food actuator had taken some damage limiting its movement and her speed. Ignoring the damage Sandra twisted her Mech’s OmniMech torso she fired another burst from her autocannon happy to see one of the enemy Mechs fall to the ground on fire. The other Mechs continued to fire their hand held weapons, grenade launchers and mortars, fortunately the hand guns did little damage, both the mortars and grenade launchers appeared to be firing smoke rounds instead of causing damage. With all the fire and smoke around Sandra was fighting with her instruments and could barely see the battle around her.
“Point One, we are breaching the enemy lines.†One of the armour commanders reported Sandra could barely tell who under the noise behind him and around her Mech.
“Oh hell I’m going down!†there was a scream from David Ramirez followed by an explosion over to Sandra’s left she couldn’t see who had hit him or if he had ejected. Instead she turned back to her own fight immediately into a group of SRMs. Tightly packed sixteen missiles slammed into the Shadow Cat covering the Mech for a single moment in fire. Sandra went from fighting a battle to fighting for control over her OmniMech as over two tons of armour was obliterated in seconds. Firing her autocannon wildly Sandra could feel the temperature had risen in her cockpit, probably an engine hit too. Blindly she launched her OmniMech into the air, as the forty-five ton machine flew through the air she saw one of the enemy Mech and fired all four lasers. The heat in the Shadow Cat’s cockpit flew almost as high as the Mech’s actual jumping height as the head dispensation system failed to control the sudden surge however Sandra could clearly see the enemy Mech fall under her fire, another one down.
“Point One, we are clear†the same armour commander replied “you need to pull back†he suggested as Sandra’s Mech came down heavily on the sand dunes, somehow she saved the Mech from falling for a second as more missile fire ravaged the back of her OmniMech. It was all over in a second, an alarm to her right activated as the ammunition bin of her autocannon was hit, the Mechs automatic Cellular Ammunition Storage Equipment activated containing the explosion, the cockpit roof exploded away and her ejector seat fired. Soaring through the air away from her dying machine Sandra could see the battle was continuing both north and south of her position, she could also see she was arcing away from her DropShip. She tried her comms but the air rushing past her knocked the words out of her mouth. Her seat tumbled through the air for several moments smashing her head from side to side knocking her unconscious, the seat’s automatic parachute systems engaged and saved her from a deadly plummet towards the ground. Her battle was over, her victory with her people escaping marred by her loss of her OmniMech and being stuck being enemy lines.
Several hours later Sandra Rimmer awoke lying on a comfortable bead in a darkened room; across from her was Michael Furey his head and arm both bandaged heavily. “Welcome back to the land of the living.†He said weakly, moving slowly Sandra sat up and looked around.
“Where are we? What happened to my people?†She asked as she realized they were neither at her DropShip or back at Port Arthur.
“After your Mech was destroyed†he stated, that alone brought pain to Sandra, that OmniMech although no more alive than the clothes on her back was one of the last things linking her to her past with Clan Nova Cat. With its destruction she was now one of the dispossessed, something unthinkable to a Clan warrior, she wondered if she would ever pilot a Mech again. “We able to get to your DropShip, three of your Elementals were dead and one of the Hachimans was ablaze. Without being able to see you, I chose to begin a search for you with a small group of my Elementals while the parts were fitted.â€
“Did the parts work? Is my ship safe?†She asked immediately interrupting again
“Would you allow me to finish, Quiaff?†He asked raising his voice she nodded “I found you a short time later but as I approached a group of Southern infantry surrounded my position capturing both of us, my Battle Armour was too badly to fight them and protect you.â€
“I’m sorry†she apologised “my ship?â€
“It was my choice. I came looking for you knowing that I may be captured. The rest of your unit came under increasing fire from the natives, they left the planet…†he looked at his wrist at the watch that wasn’t there “must have been a day ago†he said smiling weakly.
“So where are we?†Sandra asked looking around their room, it was a drab looking place if there ever was one but not the most uncomfortable cell. There appeared to be a separate toilet area and two beds, although she questioned if either would take Furey’s weight.
“You are guests of the Dominion of John Marik the Great, under the stewardship of Prime Marshal Anastasius Marik his blood grandson and true ruler of Twin Sons.†Another voice said as the doors opened “you will be considered our guest, despite your aggressions against our people†he said addressing Sandra. The man was in his late twenties dressed in an elaborate purple and gold uniform with hundreds of campaign medals “you are an enemy of the state and will be dealt with appropriately.†He said turning on Michael Furey as several armed infantry entered with raised weapons. Furey could have fought them off, Sandra was quite certain but the big Elemental simply nodded as he was taken away. “What you do and what you say will depend on his survival.†The newcomer said taking Furey’s chair “now you will tell me about your people, their technology and their plans for the Twin Sons.†He said smiling, Sandra could tell he enjoyed interrogating people, but he had never interrogated a Clan MechWarrior before. She was content that her people had escaped, what the future brought was anyone’s guess, she would stay loyal to them whatever happened as she knew the Rim Association would be back to the Twin Sons and the Liger Warriors would have a second chance against the world.
Much of the Rim Association adventure was previously posted in the mini story In the Darkness There is Light now its in the story :)
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Big update, looking forward to the return of the Rim to Twin Sons.
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Big update, looking forward to the return of the Rim to Twin Sons.
Shouldn't be too long I like it there :)
Next bit...
Clan Coyote Hall
Katyusha City, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
8th September 3086
"I never stop missing this world or its sights." Khan Nathan Fetladral said quietly looking out the windows over the plains Strana Mechty at the Svoboda Zemylya and the main Clan Genetic Repository.
"It is a shame Clan Wolf is not at home more often" Khan Salas Kufahl of Clan Coyote said quietly. "Your Clan's voice in the Council Chambers and on the streets of the Homeworlds would carry much weight. Quiaff?"
"Aff, it would" Nathan conceeded "but other Clans decided that Clan Wolf belonged with the Crusader Invasion so that is where our path lies.
"Says the warden leading that Clan." Salas said knowingly he knew that Nathan Fetladral despite his bravado was in fact more warden than he'd ever admit publicly. He would lead the Crusader Clan in conflict with its enemies but he would also do is best to protect the people under his charge. Which was one reason Salas had agreed to meet with him and to agree this deal.
"Aff" Nathan answered quietly "you have led the Coyote Clan for many years Khan Kufahl. Over that time the Coyotes have once more become a powerhouse of the Homeworlds, quietly the Coyotes lead while others in the limelight take credit."
"It has been many years since my Clan was at the front of anything." Salas said quietly "and leading the current crop of the Clans is perhaps far from our desires."
"Perhaps I could offer something that would kindle some desire?" Nathan asked turning back towards the older Khan. "The transfer of territory belonging to Clan Wolf in exchange for certain resources the Coyotes hold?"
"That could be of interest." Salas confirmed
"We would transfer territory within the Inner Sphere to your Clan." Nathan said quietly Salas looked shocked the Coyotes had never entertained the thought of returning to the Inner Sphere. Although given the escalating conflicts within the Homeworlds it could perhaps be understood.
"The Inner Sphere..." Salas said quietly mesmerized by the idea "but where will Clan Wolf be?"
"For a time we would share at least some of the territory." Nathan confirmed quietly "but in time Clan Wolf's Touman will be required elsewhere." He said cryptically "during the shared time your forces will essentially be Wolf forces but this is no absorption." Nathan said Salas nodded he didn't like the idea of sharing worlds but then the Homeworlds had always be shared, having two Clans share an Occupation Zone was dangerous but Clans Wolf and Coyote had always been allies until the time of Khan Vlad Ward when the relationship had become strained.
"What would be the price for this transfer?"
"A Galaxy of Warriors for deployment within the Kerensky Cluster."
"That would gut my forces within the Homeworlds, even with new recruits from the sibkos. We would require more firepower to ensure Coyotes can escape the Homeworlds should it be needed." Salas said seeing where the Wolf Khan would be willing to take their conversation.
"Name your price Khan Kufahl."
"We both know Clan Wolf has access to a naval shipyard that is at least capable of repairing WarShips if not building brand new vessels" he noticed Fetladral smirk slightly "or perhaps it is more than capable." Salas said making it obvious he had noticed the Wolf Khan's slip "two Wolf WarShips transferred to Coyote command would give us the firepower to ensure our people could escape if required and allow us to stand as equals with other Clans."
"That could perhaps work" the Wolf Khan confirmed, it would be a loss but Clan Wolf had always focused on its ground forces rather than WarShips anyway.
"And..." Salas added "exclusive access to the Winson Bloodhouse."
"That has always been a shared house, our Clans have always trusted each other to use this house well. The Founder's wife was of that House it has ingrained links to Clan Wolf."
"She was the Founder of Clan Coyote!" Salas said raising his voice angered at the Wolf Khan's assumption that only Clan Wolf needed access to the house. "You are asking my Clan to take great risks in this move, in sharing a new home with your Clan which without your leadership could act against it." He said thinking as if Vlad Ward was in charge once more "and we are potentially taking any flak from your operations on Strana Mechty. You owe us this."
"We will retain access to the Bloodlines we already hold and may use them within our own gentics program Quiaff?" Nathan asked ensuring his Clan would still have access to the Bloodline and a link to Jennifer Winson.
"Aff, but Clan Coyote holds the rights to raise sibkos exclusively of that name, Quiaff?"
"Aff, I will pass this agreement with my Clan's council."
"As will I" Salas confirmed as Nathan Fetladral turned towards the windows once more.
"I will miss this sight once all is done" the Wolf Khan said
"I will die before I leave it" the Coyote Khan confirmed his own feelings
"We each have our own paths." Nathan Fetladral said turning away back towards the Coyote leader
"Just as the Founder foresaw." Salas said all the Clans had been given their own leadership for a reason the Founder had known that they all would find their own paths and find their own ways. Each would choose its own path for survival, some would fail, some already had Salas Kufahl knew that his Clan would not be one to fail.
"Seyla" both said in unison their agreement made.
Regulan Expansion
Former Free Worlds League
14th September 3086
Six months after their previous operations the RFS Clipperton and RFS Gibson are deployed once more to unaffiliated worlds within the former FWL by Regulan leaders. The deployment of the vessels is clear the Regulan Fiefs will use any force neccessary to expand its borders especially if the worlds have no means of defence and none of the bigger splinter states of the Free Worlds League will act.
Unfortunately unlike the previous operation which had led to two worlds joining the Regulan Fiefs this operation goes wildly wrong. First the RFS Clipperton launches an orbital blitz on the world of Nullarbor devastating nearly thirty square kilometres of countryside surrounding the worlds small capital causing nearly 1,000 civilian deaths after the worlds leaders refuse to join the Regulan Fiefs. The world surrenders without another word or shot fired.
Then the RFS Gibson drops a thermonuclear warhead into the atmosphere of the world of Cajamarca after a disagreement between the planet's rulers and the Gibson's commander. Command detonating the bomb over the world's capital the blast sends an EMP pulse across the small city that knocks out the electricity to millions. On the world which is in the middle of its winter season nearly six thousand people die of exposure to the elements as the capital cities emergency response services fail to cope with the disaster.
Although none of the other Free Worlds League states interfere in these attacks or try to stop the Regulans they all take note of the capabilities of the Regulus-class Frigates and the lengths the Regulans are willing to go to. They also take note of the three other Regulus-class vessels in various states of construction and the threat that could be leveled at their own states.
Emergency Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
22nd September 3086
"Ladies and gentlemen welcome to Terra" Gavin Dow said, as governor of Terra he was still technically the host of this meeting despite General Bannister Cameron's position as leader of the Star League Protectorate. "This meeting was called by the Advisory Council and by the Commanding-General who have all called into question the acts of Capellan Confederation Chancellor and Current First Lord Naomi Centrella."
"My actions!" Naomi almost screamed raising to her feet looking accusingly at Commanding-General Archer Christifori "my actions we those of a Capellan Chancellor not as First Lord of the Star League Defence Force...."
"Chancellor, please..." Gavin tried to interupt but she turned on him with a cold glance that quietened the Governor quickly.
"What of the actions of the Commanding-General? He was given orders by the First Lord of the Star League and has blatently ignored them." She said accusingly turning back against Archer.
"I have not ignored them Chancellor" Archer said raising to his feet ignoring her position as First Lord, he was a MechWarrior not a politician and hated this battlefield. "I have tried to carry out your orders but instead I find myself dealing with threats to this Star League. Your orders will be fulfilled however first I must deal with you."
"That sounds like a threat COMMANDING-GENERAL" she said putting emphasis his rank reminding him that he was not a voting member of the council or a leader of any nation. He could see that she had support of several around the table.
"It was not a threat Chancellor." Archer conceded "it was a promise." He said both Bannister Cameron and Gavin Dow tried and failed to supress smiles at his words. "As Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force I swore an oath to protect its member states from enemies foreign and domestic. It is my duty to inform this Council that the Star League Defence Force will not follow a First Lord from a nation that butchers its own people." Archer said slamming his hand on the table. "All Star League Defence Force units, WarShips and facilities have been ordered to stand down from combat operations and act only in self defence until that woman is removed from office and someone who understands honour and duty replaces her." The other lords even those that knew Archer well looked surprised by the Commanding-General's order.
"Commanding-General, you know that these actions you have taken could break this Star League?" Major-General Bannister Cameron asked quietly raising to his feet. "The Commanding-General's duty is to follow the orders of the First Lord's office not challenge it."
"And the First Lord's office is to make life better for the Star League's citizens not murder three thousand and sixty-two of its citizens without trials or evidence of guilt."
"There was an attempt against my son's life!" Naomi screamed appalled he would use the attack against her.
"And even now with the blood of your own citizens on your hands you cannot even prove if you stopped the "assassins" they could strike now. What would you do murder another three thousand? Three MILLION?" Archer asked his temper barely in check.
"I would take actions that ensured the survival of my family and of my nation." Naomi admitted
"And that I can tell you from personal experience is not the actions of a First Lord of the Star League." Bannister Cameron said raising to his feet once more before sitting down. "I will support the Commanding-General's charge, not as an Officer but as leader of the Star League Protectorate worlds. The people I represent will not want this First Lord."
"The motion has been made" Gavin Dow said as host trying to remain in charge of what was going on.
"It is supported by the Federated Suns." First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion said without further word. Around the room the Lyran Commonwealth, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby, St Ives Compact, Star League Protectorate and Marik Stewart-Commonwealth all voted with the motion.
The Regulan Fiefs surprising voted to abstain from taking either side leaving only the Draconis Combine, Capellan Confederation, Taurian Concordat voting against the motion and for the First Lord.
"With six votes to three and one abstain this Council has voted to remove First Lord Naomi Centrella from office. The Capellan Confederation will retain a full vote at future meetings however for the remainder of today their vote is null." Gavin Dow said quitely Naomi Centrella looked like she would explode with anger.
"Mark my words Commanding-General, you will pay for this betrayal personally" she threatened charging from the room. Archer sat on his seat unmoved by the threat as Peter Steiner-Davion raised to his feet.
"My fellow lords" he said in his deep Germanic accent "today is not a day that I wish to vote for another First Lord. But I do recognize the need for this Council and for this Star League to have a direction and so I propose that a Protector of the Realm is put in place until the next Whitting Conference." He said around the table there were nods of agreement with the idea "although I believe many of our collective people would vote for Bannister Cameron, as a direct descendant from the rulers of the First Star League, to take this position I understand that the Major-General has refused this position." Bannister Cameron raised to his feet.
"My lords" he began not counting himself within their number "I never looked to national leadership I am a military officer first and foremost. I will continue to serve as leader of the Star League Protectorate worlds as honour calls for it but I would not look for higher position. My people on Liberty still need my guidance more than those of the Inner Sphere." He said turning slightly "I do however have a candidate in mind for such a position, one man who has showed the desire, drive and devotion to the Star League Defence Force without thought to personal reward. Who understands today's politics better than he would like to admit and far more than he would want to be involved in. The current Commanding-General Archer Christifori." Bannister said saluting his superior before sitting down.
"I am honoured but this is not a position for the Commanding-General to take..." Archer began but was lost for words as Victor Steiner-Davion raised to his feet.
"I will put the Federated Suns support behind this appointment. Who better than a Clan war hero to lead this Star League in its time of need? This League was formed for the defence of the Inner Sphere who better than the best of us?" Victor asked raising his hand towards Archer Christifori "a winner of the Star League Medal of Honour for his actions on Huntress and Strana Mechty which ended the Clan Invasion." He said Archer's eyes watered at the words he had served in the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT under Victor's personal command during that campaign and been following the then Archon-Prince's orders. "A man who has put the ideals of the Star League ahead of his own life and put all his energy into making sure this SLDF outlived not only the First Commanding-General, Morgan Hasek-Davion, but also to make sure it outlived him. I think there can be no other." He finished, what followed was not a traditional vote to confirm the appointment instead each of the Succession Lords, Bannister Cameron and Gavin Dow all rose to their feet standing with Victor and began to applaud, even the Regulan Fiefs leader Kiric Cameron-Jones joined them.
For now there would be no First Lord but the Star League would have its Protector as leader and guardian until the time came for a replacement. Archer Christifori promised himself more than anyone else to make sure that the position received the honour and time it deserved, charged by the leaders of the Inner Sphere to protect the League he would do it right.
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Nice update, one thing, Archer and Victor were part of the 10th Lyran Guards.
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Nice update, one thing, Archer and Victor were part of the 10th Lyran Guards.
Oops thanks
FIXED
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Time for some more, finally found motivation to write more :P
BattleMech Training Course
Sun Zhang MechWarrior Academy
New Samarkand, District of Midway
4th October 3086
Walking along the tarmac Tami Moto looked up at the brand-new SJA-8K Shungenja BattleMech that stood before her. For the last several months she had been undergoing intense physical therapy on her left arm, according to the doctors she should have full motion in the limb but she wasn't completely convinced, to be a BattleMech pilot you needed to be one hundred percent capable with every limb and one hundred percent confident in their abilities. Right now she wasn't confident - not at all. Looking up at the seventy-five ton BattleMech in front of her, it was a specially built variant of the heavy design fitted with a Command Console behind the main cockpit two pilots could control the design making it a perfect Battlefield Command unit or a perfect training Mech. Today she would qualify as a pilot again or she would be relegated to rearguard actions.
"MechWarrior you are ready?" A male voice asked approaching from behind he was dressed in a t-shirt, shorts and a coolant vest, Tami found him to be attractive and oddly familiar but she didn't know why.
"Yes, sir"
"Good I will see you in the Mech" he said stepping past he turned back to her looking her up and down, noticing the glove that covered her left arm. "You have sacrificed much for the Combine MechWarrior, the Coordinator is said to owe you his life." He continued Tami almost spoke up but remained silent "it is also said he believes in you. Perhaps you should believe in yourself." He said turning away heading upto the Mech.
Soon after they were moving across the training plains the Shungenja was alone on the field as Tami had been a qualified MechWarrior before her accident her trainer had let.... no, had ordered her to take Command of the heavy Mech. To start with she had moved the Mech slowly at walking speed getting a feel for the design, it was twenty tons heavier than her old Mech and had a top running speed of her old Mech's walking pace but she'd quickly gained a feel for the Mech. You could technically pilot any BattleMech design once you had learned how to pilot a Mech but most pilots tended to stick with a single design for most of their career. So far all she had to do was walk the Mech to the training area.
"Why don't we increase the speed and put in some maneuvering?" Her instructor asked
"I'm struggling to control it." She whispered
"Believe in it" he said briefly taking control launching the BattleMech into the air on its jump jets Tami's control was completely over-ridden by her instructors as the Mech came down to a landing.
"What the hell!"
"Believe in yourself" he said more like an order. Tami's control was returned and she tried a couple of turns, the movements were lazy and barely controlled. "Come on MechWarrior, prove you are capable or you will fail and your career will be over."
"Then perhaps it is over" Tami said returning the Mech to a straight forward walk.
"The Coordinator fails to agree with you MechWarrior" her trainer said
"Why does he even care?" Tami wondered out loud continuing to walk the Mech in a straight line
"You saved his life."
"I should have died for the Dragon" she said naming the Coordinator's nickname "it would have been better to die whole." She said slowing the Mech almost to a stop.
"You are whole Tami Moto, as whole as any MechWarrior, we all experience things that change us you just need to believe that." He said "we also have targets inbound!" He said suddenly his voice full of surprise and urgency,
"I have had enough combat training for today." She said she wasn't interested in weapons combat when she could barely pilot the Mech.
"We are not scheduled for combat training" he replied a particle cannon flew past the Mech's cockpit "that was a fully charged particle cannon." He said
"Fully charged? What the hell are they playing at?" She exclaimed as the four strange Quad BattleMechs continued to close on their position filling the air with particle cannon and missile fire one shot striking the Shungenja's leg. "Incoming Mechs respond this is not a live fire mission."
"Safeties off weapons free" her trainer said "try to keep our distance this thing is designed as a training Mech it's not really optimized for combat operations."
"What the hell is going on?" She asked raising the Mech's arms firing her own Light Particle Cannon and autocannon mounted on the right arm. Followed by the Extended-Range Large Laser on the other arm and the Long Range Missile Launcher mounted in the torso. Her Particle cannon and half the missiles impacted on one of the BattleMechs the rest went wide.
"They are after me." He said activating the Mech's command suite "this is Dragon One, we are under attack on Range Six, requesting assistance." He said Tami knew the Callsign "Dragon One" and couldn't believe it. "Dragon One requesting immediate assistance" he repeated "we are under attack Range Six requesting assistance."
"Dragon One, what the hell is your game?" She almost shouted as she launched the BattleMech into the air backwards firing the particle cannon, autocannon and the Mech's short range missile launcher all into one of the Mechs. "Dragon One is a restricted access call sign only two people are allowed that sign." She shouted as the Mech came down heavily she twisted the Mech's torso as it began to walk backwards firing off the Mech's Long Range Missile Launcher, and paired medium pulse and extended range medium lasers cutting deeply into the another of the Mechs which seemed to be armed with pulse lasers and short range missiles. The Mech's return fire cut into the Shungenja's torso and leg armour.
"I owed you, you saved my life." He said simply Tami realized why she'd recognized the man he was Vincent Kurita, Coordinator of the Combine, her nation's leader, "both Particle cannon Mechs are circling to the right."
"I need more than that" she said accelerating her Mech forward towards her previous target, the autocannon, short range missile launchers and particle cannon spat out fire again tearing into the lighter design. Suddenly the SRM stored in the Mech's torso exploded consuming the Mech in an expanding fireball no pilot ejected from the cockpit before it blew.
"One down both PPC Mechs continuing to circle"
"I see them damn it, keep talking, I want some answers before we're dead." She said twisting her BattleMech's torso again firing the long range missiles, and both medium lasers again, this Mech was designed as a training Mech not a true BattleMech, it had weapons that could hit every range conceivable from a BattleMech, unfortunately although that gave options it destroyed the Mech's ability to concentrate damage. The two PPC Mechs had no such trouble however firing their particle canons one slammed into the Shungenja's Mech's back.
"Armour breach!" Vincent called as a wave of heat rushed into the cockpit Tami fought to control the Mech with her hands... her hands.... she looked down at the cybernetic left arm, the doctors had said one day she would feel like it was part of her. Tami laughed as the Coordinator continued to read off damage behind her "engine shielding damaged, C3 offline not that we have any help close by..." He stopped hearing her laughter "I fail to see what is funny MechWarrior" he said using her title again. Tami danced the seventy-five ton BattleMech to the right then to the left cutting into another of the enemy Mechs this one armed similarly to the previous one but with a flamer near the centre, it had just landed far too close to Tami's Mech after a jump of over two hundred metres. Short range missiles, lasers and the particle cannon all tore into the enemy Mech destroying its entire left side both legs crumpled under the Mech. "Nicely done, both remaining Mechs are still on the left" he said tracking the two remaining enemies.
Although both light Mechs remained a threat with their Particle Cannons Tami was far more comfortable with her targets now she had confidence in herself. Dancing the Shugenja between the two designs she fired lasers into one while the other took a whole flight of Short Range Missiles to the face. Few Mechs could take six missiles to the face and this Mech was not one of them, the entire cockpit caved in on the Mech under the impact of the six high explosive weapons. With its cockpit destroyed the Mech had no control and down it went leaving only one Mech remaining Tami turned straight into a particle cannon blast from the Mech which surprisingly held its ground the man made lightening tore into the Shungenja's armour but it didn't matter to Tami, raising both Mech's arms she fired the autocannon, large laser and particle cannon tearing into the armour. The combined fire tore the torso of the quad to pieces Tami could see the Particle cannon was damaged leaving the enemy weaponless. Tami smiled charging forward she drew back her Mech's arm "For the Combine!" She transmitted gripping the controls with her left arm slamming the Shugenja's arm through the cockpit of the light BattleMech, she noticed the autocannon was damaged by the action but she didn't care as she drew the arm back and thumped the quad design again in victory she was complete again. "All call signs Dragon One is secure." She transmitted
"Roger Dragon One, test complete congratulations."
"Test?" She wondered turning in the cockpit looking at Vincent Kurita sitting behind her "what the hell is going on?" She demanded locking down the external transmitters
"Those Mechs were under a test controllers command working for the Combine, this was a test of their systems in live fire combat which I wanted to witness first hand. And it was a way to prove to you that you are a complete person, and your loss is one you can carry on from."
"You bastard!" She shouted "you played me like a piece on the chess board and those Mechs as your pawns. What about their pilots? Were they acceptable sacrifices?"
"There was no pilots in those BattleMechs. As I said this was a test of their systems in combat"
"No pilots... Drones?" she asked shocked, she'd never heard of a Drone sized BattleMech before aerospace fighters, even WarShips in ancient times but BattleMechs? The concept truly scared her completely disposable BattleMechs without the fear of losing any personnel. Something that could walk through a city and slaughter its entire population without a warrior to answer for the crime.
"Indeed unfortunately they failed to destroy a single Heavy BattleMech which is disappointing" he said coldly.
"Disappointing? That you... we didn't die? What planet are you from how can you justify risking your life for a test? Our nation needs you and you are ready to throw away your life for a science test?"
"Hardly a science test Miss Moto, if the Revenant's systems had proven usable then we could have fielded companies of them on every border world. Imagine, if any time one of our worlds was attacked we could throw companies or Battalions of Mechs at our enemies without the worry of a single Combine solider's death. I wouldn't have to send people to their deaths, but at the same time I was not ready to have this experiment kill any of our people."
"And if I had not fought?" She asked knowing she hadn't been ready before the combat had begun.
"Then I would have battled them" he said simply "but I had confidence in you."
"Revenant doesn't sound much like a Combine name?"
"No it doesn't, perhaps as well it failed" he confirmed without another word "shall we return to base now?" Tami nodded and turned the Shungenja back towards the base. She took one final look at the downed Drone BattleMechs and wondered if these strange Revenants were the future of BattleMech warfare. She also wondered what exactly she was now? A MechWarrior or the Coordinator's personal play thing that he would use just because she had saved his life. She knew one thing she needed to get off of New Samarkand sooner rather than later.
Star League Contract, Wolf's Dragoons Command
Outreach, Star League Protectorate
14th October 3086
At a press conference at the MRBC office on Outreach the Wolf's Dragoons announce that their Regiments and WarShips will be contracted to the Star League Defence Force in a five year contract. Although direct details of the contract are not given by all accounts the Dragoons will be providing security for the Star League Protectorate and be conducting anti-Clan operations. Secretly the Wolf's Dragoons also land a detachment of Seventh Kommando troops on Thorin at the request of Commanding General Archer Christifori. In a private contract paid for from Christifori's own personal wealth the Seventh Kommando have been hired to secure Archer's family following threats made by Capellan Chancellor Naomi Centrella.
Nadir Point, Starliner One
New Samarkand, Midway Military District
Draconis Combine
20th October 3086
The only WarShip converted into a passenger craft, the Starliner One, emerged at the nadir point of the New Samarkand system in a flash of light as it continued its tour of the Inner Sphere which had begun in the Federated Suns. Originally the cruise had been planned to take the ship far from New Samarkand to Luthien however with the disaster that had befallen the Black Pearl New Samarkand had been moved up the list with the passengers invited to take a trip to the Museum Ship, Samarkand-class Carrier Togura, which was in orbit of the world. Since New Samarkand's naming as the capital of the Draconis Combine the world had seen massive changes, the damage done to the system by a Clan Nova Cat attack a decade before had been completely repaired and expanded on. Now four Olympus-class Recharge Stations each outfitted with Naval weaponry had been built around the Nadir and Zenith Jump Points to provide visiting ships with instant charges to other systems of the Combine.
As the Starliner One moved towards one of these docks several JumpShips detached from an Invader-class JumpShip floating nearby, each ship accelerating at maximum speed. There were no ships due to join the ship in the system meaning they were either a welcoming force from the Combine or trouble. As aerospace fighters were launched from the space stations the crew of the Starliner One knew they were in trouble. The vessel retained a few of the weapons that used to be part of the vessel's previous life as the Sovetskii Soyuz-class Blake's Vengeance but these weapons were neither powered nor manned normally. The ship didn't have time to man those weapons before the DropShips reached weapons range. Instead the ship cut loose its fragile jump sail and fired its main transit drive.
Moments later the DCS Dedication to Duty flashed into the system, the Tatsumaki-class Destroyer had shadowed the Starliner One for its entire time in the Draconis Combine but had been delayed in the last star system. The vessel's forward weapons flashed into action, the first shot a Heavy Naval Gauss Rifle slammed through the DropShip closest to the Starliner One. The Union-class vessel flipped end over end as the slug tore through the vessel holing it end-to-end. The next DropShip, another Union, took paired Naval Autocannons in the port side wholing the Cargo Bay venting it to space secondary explosions tearing through the vessel. The last DropShip, an Overlord, died from a spaceship's version of a thousand paper cuts BattleMech scale gauss rifles, missiles and lasers tore into the vessel's armoured hid followed by a pair of Naval type Particle Cannons from the Dedication's flanks. The nine-thousand-seven hundred ton craft holed in dozens of places died belching fire from several places. Not waiting for a surrender the Tatsumaki turned its broadside towards the still waiting JumpShip a flash of naval autocannon fire tore the fragile Invader to pieces no crew had a chance to escape from the vessel.
Tharkad Aerospace
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
25th October 3086
After years of conflict with the Marian Hegemony and study of their UD-4L Raider DropShip Tharkad Aerospace debut their UD-6S Stallion Special Operations DropShip. Weighing in at one hundred tons the vessel's only job is to insert a single light vehicle. Armed with a single nine-tube Multi-Missile Launcher and paired Light Autocannons the craft and is capable of carrying a light vehicle inside its small vehicle bay like the UD-4L. Defending the craft is a pair of Anti-Missile Systems and a pair of machine guns which are capable of defending the craft both in the air and on the ground. The craft is to be sent to special operations forces and border raiders.
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More inspiration struck
Davion Trade Convoy
Federated Suns/Outworlds Alliance Border
3rd November 3086
In an effort to continue good relations with the Snow Raven Clan within the Outworlds Alliance the Federated Suns hold up their end of the bargain sending a trade convoy of eight JumpShips into the Outworlds Alliance escorted by the FSS Jason Hasek, a Congress Block II-class Frigate, the FSS Andrew Redburn, a Davion III-class Destroyer, and the FSS Proserpina, a Hound-class Corvette. As a Davion concession to the Snow Raven agreement Prince Burton Davion is assigned to command of the convoy, for the duration of the trip he is given personal use of the FSS Avalon One, a heavily modified Conquistador-class DropShip which is more assault and command ship than the transport the original was.
News of the trade convoy spreads throughout the Draconis March like wild fire with most citizens believing that Victor Steiner-Davion has lost his way and is leading the Federated Suns into the Clan camp he fought against during the Clan War. The Robinson Rangers Regiments are deployed on three worlds however the rioting continues on many more drawing more Federated Suns militia units into crowd control efforts. Opportunistic Draconis Combine commanders launch attacks on Proserpina, Lima, Royal, McComb, Marduk, Tripoli, Paris and Breed turning the entire border into a war front.
Khan's Office
Csesztreg, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
9th November 3086
The scientists had entered Khan Cobb's office with hundreds of small pieces of paper and talked constantly about something they had been creating to better the Clan for nearly 30 minutes without getting to the point. "Gentlemen, you will make your point or I will personally remove you from this office." He thundered staring at the four men, all were older than he, and smaller.
"My Khan, through your negotiations we have access to Sea Fox facilities that will greatly improve our Clan's abilities in the future" one of them began
"I know that I negotiated the agreement" he began before the next interrupted him
"We have devised a way of motivating the local population..." he said his voice trailing off as the Khan glared at him for interrupting.
"My Khan" the next said again diverting Cobb's growing anger "the Halcyon has many capabilities"
"How do you know that name!" Cobb snapped the project was still supposed to be secret
"Scientists talk" he continued quietly admitting one of his caste's failings. One thing scientists prided themselves on was their ability to come up with new things. Unfortunately when they could not they had to ask for help, asking for help beyond a project normally produced better results so details of projects got passed in whispers and loose conversations until just about everyone knew something about everything. "We have devised a new unit that we could construct on a rebuilt plant on this very world" he said seeing Cobb's interest suddenly perk up "the former Rim Worlds Republic had a fledgling plant on this world for building heavy lift aircraft for atmospheric use."
"I am aware of it, and never utter that name again" Cobb spat the Rim Worlds Republic had born Stefan Amaris, although not all Clansmen blamed the entire Rim Worlds for the mistakes of the past Cobb was not one of them. "We have looked at the plant as the Jade Falcons did and we believe it useless Quineg?" He asked staring at them thoughtfully being able to use the ruined facility could be very good for the Hell's Horses and the locals.
"We believe we can convert it into a Small Craft Production Facility and one capable of building the Pelican" the first scientist said putting down plans for a new aircraft which had a snubbed nose, double sized cockpit, high wings and a long tapered off tail. Near the rear loading hatch were a group of small arms and what looked docking hatches.
"What is this?" The Khan asked pointing at the arms.
"As well as an internal cargo capacity of 25 tons these arms can carry a re-entry pod weighing in at one hundred tons."
"Re-entry pod?" Cobb asked hearing the term for the first time. Having a small craft that could carry twenty-five Elementals in Battle Armour sounded interesting since it could be used as a troop transport or a space-borne assault ship.
"Our other innovation" the second scientist said speaking again showing another blueprint "similar to the cocoons that are used to protect a dropping BattleMech or Elemental these pods would be used to surround conventional armoured vehicles which could be carried by the Pelican to the surface. They are single use much like BattleMech cocoons but they are cheap to build and can be fitted to a vehicle and mated to a Pelican within thirty minutes." He explained Cobb nodded, the Hell's Horses Clan used many conventional vehicles having something that could allow them to deployed from space could be very useful.
"How long would it take you to put this into production?"
"The pods could be built and tested by the end of the month."
"And the Pelican?" He asked still unsure about the name
"Assuming we get full support on refurbishment?" Cobb nodded we should have a prototype ready to fly before the end of the year.
"Do it" Cobb ordered he quickly moved them out of the office and contacted the Halcyon design team, the Cruiser would need to be changed slightly as he wanted it to incorporate the new Pelican vessels and their cargo.
Intelligence Reports
Regulus, Regulan Fiefs
Former Free Worlds League
13th November 3086
Throughout the Regulan Feifs reports of sightings of Naga-class Destroyers are reported by traders and DropShip patrols. In all twelve reported cases the Regulans deploy WarShip and assault DropShip units to the systems in search of hard evidence of the vessels. In each case they find nothing which is hardly surprising as no power within the Inner Sphere or Clans is known to field the ancient WarShip despite the belief on Regulus that these reports are nothing more than wild goose chases the Prince orders that the WarShip patrols continue throughout the Regulan systems as often as their K-F Drives will carry them to show the Regulan people that their leader cares for them. The fact that the continuous jumping actually makes the WarShip fleet less capable of defending the Regulan Fiefs and is potentially very dangerous for the vessels as it makes breakdowns more common and raises the possibility of a missjump is not lost on most of the Regulan commanders but orders are orders.
Clan Steel Viper offensive
Clan Homeworlds
18th November 3086
Starting on the world of Circe in the Pentagon worlds Clan Steel Viper launches an all out attack against Clan Wolf in the Clan Homeworlds first all but annihilating three Clusters of Wolves and a Cluster of Clan Coyote worlds in a no holds barred assault on the Wolf territory on the world. No trials are thought as Clan Steel Viper steamrolled through the Wolf units and a Coyote unit that had been replacing them on the planet. Although Clan Wolf's civilians and a large chunk of the Circe production facilities have been removed the Vipers secure several facilities from the Wolves as well as nearly 14,000 civilians and several transport DropShips. Additional assaults against Clan Wolf occur on Paxton and on Roche however on both occasions instead of Clan Wolf forces the Vipers discover Clan Coyote forces and retreat.
Continuing their campaign on the 21st November Clan Steel Vipers breach Clan Jade Falcon's naval defences around the world of Ironhold and land troops on Gatekeeper beginning invasion campaigns on both remaining Jade Falcon worlds in the Homeworlds. Within a week the Vipers have lost nearly an entire Galaxy of troops but have also carved out sizable beachheads on both worlds and in orbit over Ironhold the Jade Falcon WarShips Kerensky's Pride, a Congress-class Frigate, and the Hawk Eye, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, drifted their backs broken by concentrated Viper assaults. Orbital strikes from Clan Steel Viper naval vessels had damaged Ironhold's SDS systems opening up the world to further invasion plans by the Steel Vipers.
In a move that will in the future either be considered to be over bold or a strategic disaster at the end of the month Clan Steel Viper dedicated the remains of their Front Line forces to assaults on Arcadia and Bearclaw and the territories of Clan Snow Raven. Although there were no Raven naval forces to contend with the Vipers still found formidable Snow Raven aerospace fighters and SDS systems active in both systems costing them the Viper's Legacy, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, iin the Arcadia system. Clan Ghost Bear's Aletha Kabrinski, who had been on Arcadia watching over a Ghost Bear Clawing Rite, contacted the Steel Viper commanders and warned them that although the Bears had only a little territory and a small population engaging them would be a mistake, the Vipers reply by bombarding the Ghost Bear command bunker with Naval Autocannons killing Aletha Kabrinski in moments. This act galvanizes the Ghost Bear defenders to join the Snow Ravens in the defence of the world ultimately causing more problems for the Steel Vipers but also showing the Bears that they are not as untouchable in the Homeworlds as their Dominion appears in the Inner Sphere.
BattleMech Training Course
Sun Zhang MechWarrior Academy
New Samarkand, District of Midway
23rd November 3086
Marching over the tarmac Tami Moto stood in front of Coordinator Vincent Kurita staring at him her eyes blazing with anger her hands clenched in fists "who the hell do you think you are?" She nearly shouted her temper beyond spent. Over the past month she had tried and failed to arrange for another trainer to continue her MechWarrior rehabilitation, she'd tried three times to be transferred off New Samarkand to another academy and been denied each time. She'd tried to take a BattleMech from the hanger and train herself, and been denied. So far a simulator was all she had been allowed near and despite the advanced facilities on New Samarkand they were nothing compared to a real BattleMech. There was only one person who could deny her and she wanted answers, protocol be damned.
"Miss Moto" he said quietly ignoring her anger and attitude, surprisingly neither of his bodyguards moved to move her away.
"I am a MechWarrior! Not a "Miss" she snapped, again neither guard moved despite her anger and obvious threat. Tami knew she could hit the leader of the Draconis Combine and neither guard would be able to stop her, although she doubted she'd ever live another free minute if she made that move.
"You are not a MechWarrior until your training officer grants you that privilege. As far as I know that is not the case." He said turning away from her moving slowly towards the BattleMech Hanger.
"My training officer? I requested a transfer, I don't want your pity" she told him, she'd done more than request a transfer she'd submitted a formal request for another trainer to the commander of the academy which hadn't been replied to.
"What is wrong with your previous trainer?" He asked continuing to walk, Tami stalked along beside him, he knew very well that the training officer on her Mech Qualification ticket was one Vincent Kurita and neither had set eyes on each other since the previous training run. "Why do you believe he would be offering you pity?"
"You know why" she said looking down at her artificial arm, it looked and functioned as well as any flesh and blood arm would but everyone knew she was the one with one arm, everyone opened doors for her or cut her slack on physical exercises she hated every moment of it but she'd also sworn to protect the Combine and that was her duty to preform.
"Tami, I would give you no more "slack" than that I would give any other." He said quietly coming to a stop "do you know why I'm a trainer instead of a MechWarrior?" He asked seeing a small shake of her head he continued "I am Coordinator of the Draconis Combine, one of the most powerful states in known space and yet I train warriors instead of fighting the battles I send people to die on." He said passionately now the Coordinator losing his own temper "why you may ask?" He continued "because the nobility of the Combine, and members of my family, namely my uncle see me as the future of my line and I have no children."
"Warlord Kurita forfilled the role of leader very well until you were of age" Tami said more calmly "you should choose your own path." With her words Vincent actually smiled
"If only that were the case" he said quietly "instead I train warriors to do the bidding of the Combine. I did not take pity on you" he said looking at her with his dark eyes she could see nothing but truth "I am at this moment training fifteen MechWarriors to serve the Combine in the future. Out of those you have the most experience but all are doing very well. You have missed the last six practical training sessions but your physical and mental scoring appears to have remained strong?" Tami nodded "there is not another trainer available for the rest of this academy year, you have to decide if it is your duty to serve the Combine as a MechWarrior or if you wish to serve in another way." He said Tami nodded again
"I need to think further sire, I am unsure if I can work with someone who is willing to lie to get results." She said referring to his previous tactic of unannounced training and a live fire weapons test. If he'd approached her like this then perhaps she would have taken his methods and training better. Without further words on the matter Vincent simply nodded Tami turned and marched off. After getting a few metres she heard Vincent calling to her, finally finding more words, she was uninterested and continued forward travelling around a corner as she entered one of the Academy's outer buildings.
Vincent Kurita was still taken by the MechWarrior who had saved his life as he watched her leave he reflected on his choices, he'd at least been honest with her about his reasons for being at this academy and his reason for training her. He had not mentioned that he had specifically chosen to help retrain her but that was not his duty... but it may be more effective than trying to train someone who didn't know. Pursuing her into the building he called out to her but obviously still angered Tami Moto continued walking off turning a corridor. In the heart of the Draconis Combine Vincent Kurita felt completely safe and waved off the two guards following him, a benefit and curse of his position and family, he rushed down the corridor and around the corner to catch her wanting to finish the conversation on a better note. Rounding the corridor Tami Moto was gone as quickly as she had come, Vincent Kurita took a few steps before turning around, a missed opportunity.
From behind a pair of hands grabbed the back of his uniform and pulled the Coordinator of the Draconis Combine unceremoniously into a cleaning cupboard. Before he could react to defend himself or even see his assailant the door was shut behind him and lips had met his. Pushed against the wall one of them hit a light switch eliminating the small walk in cupboard and Vincent was surprised to find Tami Moto continuing to kiss him. The young woman moments before was seconds away from assaulting him in another far more unpleasant form. Uninterested in someone finding them just yet Vincent fumbled around in the dark and flicked the light switch off continuing to meet Tami's lips in what he hoped was a never ending kiss.
Soon after the kiss did end almost as quickly as it had begun the young MechWarrior rushed from the room closing the door behind her leaving Vincent in the dark, he stumbled over the cleaning products into the corridor but Tami Moto was once again gone. Soon after both guards caught up with him, both were annoyed that they had allowed their charge to be unguarded for so long and offered him their daggers and their lives but today was hopefully the start of something new and he had no interest in ending anything returning both men's weapons and continuing his duties.
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Hi all, sorry for the delayed updates. I'm still having major problems with MS Word, looks like I'm going to need a new office to unlock half my support files for the timeline. So my updates are painstakingly slow at the moment and not nearly as detailed as I'd have liked. Still recent publications and news has spurred an update where my favourite faction at least fairs better O0
Major-General Bannister Cameron's office
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
4th December 3086
The storms had returned to Liberty and once again they were wrecking havoc across the water covered world the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry's engineering and medical units were being deployed across the planet to assist in operations while the SLS Wasp in orbit was dispatching further teams to assist. Major-General Bannister Cameron was satisfied that his people were doing everything they could to help the people of the world and had retreated to his office deep within the Quantico Island complex. During the last several years his people had refurbished the island to a near perfect replica of what it had been before the Amaris Coup despite the work he had off world Bannister always reveled in walking through the refurbished base, it reminded him of a time that House Cameron had stood tall as leaders of the long fallen Terran Hegemony and the Star League Defence Force. Recently Bannister had begun to see the growing Protectorate as a Hegemony reborn, his people were helping everyday make it stronger. He was not the First Lord of the Star League unlike his long dead family he intended on the Protectorate outliving his line.
Entering the office he knew there was something wrong before the door swung closed behind him, he could always tell when there was something wrong with his office whenever Andrea Kincaid had moved something, added or taken away anything but this was none of those things. This was something far more sinister he lowered his left arm to his regulation side arm “come out now before things get out of handâ€
“General, there is no need for such hostility.†Custos Paul said moving from the shadows “I did say I would return when the time was right. I believe sufficient time has past?â€
“Possibly, possibly not. And if my answer is the former?â€
“Then perhaps our new home is not your fledgling Protectorate.†Custos said quietly “there are other places we could go.†He said quietly, so quietly and so without conviction Bannister did not believe him.
“Perhaps we should examine that†Bannister said moving into the room. “After your last visit, I had a few things discreetly checked.†He saw the alarm on the Custos face “don't worry nothing directly related to you.†He said raising his hand slowly “there are factions throughout the Inner Sphere and known Periphery who do not wish to reside within their host realms, who disagree with their leadership and would like a new start. Unfortunately all of the known factions are also heavily stooped in their own nation's interests and would never abandon them, or they know how ravaged the worlds in the core of the Inner Sphere have been since the fall of the original Star League.†He said seeing Custos face twist with anger at the words he knew he'd hit a tough point “that in mind I knew that your people would be from somewhere less known perhaps even previously hostile to the nations of the Inner Sphere. Selecting a place in the heart of the Inner Sphere is designed I believe to show you are not afraid of your former enemies and are willing to step up to them if required.â€
“And if that was the case? General†Paul said tracking Bannister
“You wouldn't be doing it without my say so†Bannister said quietly seeing Paul's disgust “if you live under my roof you live my my rules. Firstly you keep your history a secret†he said “it's only a guess but if I'm right the revelation of your origins would send some minor shock waves through the Inner Sphere?†Custos nodded “well that isn't happening on my watch.†He said Custos nodded in agreement his people though well equipped and trained were no-where near ready. “Second anything of your past that could identify you, any ships for example need to remain hidden.â€
“Ships, you mean JumpShips and DropShips? That is our life blood, without those we would be stranded wherever you chose for us.â€
“And anything beyond that?â€
“General, use plain words please.â€
“I looked through history and saw that over the years certain ships have gone missing along with certain parties and survivors of factions who lost conflicts. If you are in possession of any of these WarShips, I don't want to see them unless it is the defence of your people from an outside aggressor.â€
“Our ship is hardly capable of hurting anyone.†Custos admitted, their last WarShip was that in name only for years they had sold weapons off her hull to the black market to pay for food, medicine, armour and weapons for their peoples other units.
“Well perhaps in time we can remedy that.†Bannister said
“That would be an interesting time. Is there anything else?â€
“If I need you in the future for something. Your people will support me, or any other Protectorate leader without question.â€
“If it does not endanger our people we will support you, and the defence of the Protectorate against all enemies foreign and domestic.†Custos promised Bannister nodded happy with the promise.
“Then I think we can come to an agreement Custos. On the World of New Earth the Mopelia Island has been uninhabited since a biological weapon attack killed significant portions of its people. The Island is safe but the people can not get beyond the stigma it holds, some of the buildings have been destroyed, overall it has the basic infrastructure you could use to build on if you don't mind the clean up?â€
“New Earth is perfectly find, Mopelia island's reconstruction is just what my people may need to focus their goals.â€
“Good†Bannister said crossing the room “I have prepared a report stating a Star League scout mission found an old Star League Colony in the Deep Periphery who lived on a world that was no-longer suitable for their survival. You are being relocated to New Earth to be given a second chance. Acceptable?â€
“Very, my thanks Lord Cameron†Custos said bowing slightly
“Pay me the thanks by returning New Earth to glory and by holding to your part of our bargain.†Bannister said extending his hand Custos Paul met it with his own and with a shake and nod it was done.
Border Conflict
Draconis March, Matsuida Prefecture
Federated Suns/Draconis Combine border
8th December 3086
Following the Draconis Combine attacks against the Federated Suns the AFFS launch a counter attack against the DCMS. With the DCMS units out of position and unsupported by their high Command the AFFS units gain instant successes on the worlds of Breed, Tripoli, Paris and Marduk. The First Robinson Rangers then push into the Combine bringing the fight to the DCMS own turf capturing the world of Galtor III facing off against the troops of the Second Night Stalkers. A combat command from the Rangers breaks off and captures the world of Reisling's Planet cutting off additional DCMS troops that could have been called to support those on Galtor III.
Davion Expedition
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
12th December 3086
Isolated within the Raven Alliance Prince Burton Davion stood deep within the Avalon One looking over reports of the fighting between the Federated Suns forces and those of the Draconis Combine. The DCMS was out of position and failing wildly against the AFFS defenders without support the offensive could not hold. He heard foot steps coming down the corridor, one set sounded like a pair of high heals which the other was definitely that of a Battle Armoured trooper. Burton glanced over his shoulder seeing an Infiltrator III Heavy Suit standing in the doorway “problems?†He asked.
“No sire, a visitor from the Ravensâ€
“Negotiations are not due to resume for several hours.â€
“No they are not†Sterling McKenna said stepping into the room dressed in a Snow Raven Duty uniform. “I wanted to speak with you†she said stepping up to the table. “Reports of your conflict with the Combine?†She muttered with distaste.
“Indeed, the DCMS broke the border however it appears that they are not supported by their command.†Burton said freely with the information, the holomap in front of them showed clearly the territory that was being fought over and the DCMS units that were involved. None of the AFFS units involved were displayed.
“Not very honourable†Sterling said looking at it the table he wasn't sure if she meant the DCMS attacks or the fact that no AFFS units were displayed for her view.
“We are but a sum of the people under our rule†he could see her face twist with further change “little is different with your Clans Quiaff?†He said using the Clan interrogative “your warriors lead, the people of all other walks of life follow. House Davion is tied to its military and its military are tied to the Federated Suns. Nothing happens in the Federated Suns without the support of the AFFS.†He said proudly
“I meant the Combine forces attacks.â€
“There are always elements working against the state head. I am sure there are Clansmen who do not believe that a Clan's Khan is always correct.â€
“There are ways to stop a Khan's actions without launching an unprovoked attack.â€
“And there I thought anything could be won at the end of a Clansmen's gun.â€
“Anything can however everything can also be lost with that same weapon.†Sterling admitted “only honour keeps it in check, something they have none of.†She said indicating to the DCMS units “the Combine has labeled them as such by not supporting their attacks they a dezgra, and can look towards a life in the Dark.â€
“Perhaps†Burton said not entirely convinced “however there is also a possibility that certain elements of the Combine will support them and they will hold a few of the worlds they have taken.â€
“And your father along with his generals would allow this?†She asked confused, if a Clan had launched such a dismal offensive it would likely pay with the loss of every unit involved and a not so insignificant amount of territory.
“The First Prince and his Marshals will decide how much is enough for the AFFS, and how much we can afford to risk. My father will consider the lives affected by any conflict and make the needed choices. If it is easier to make peace he will, if he has the Combine where he needs them he will push it. He also has the Star League to consider, if they weigh in then he will likely not war against them.â€
“The sham league should support its member states not war against it.†McKenna said looking at him “there is another option, a way for the Federated Suns to punish its enemy without lifting a finger.â€
“I think the AFFS is punishing the Combine very well at the moment.â€
“There is another option young Prince, one that you are perfectly placed to pursue.â€
“How am I....?†He said his words drifting off “the Snow Ravens would fight for the Federated Suns?†He asked out aloud not even considering the idea.
“Not alone and not openly, however if a representative of the Federated Suns was to challenge the Snow Ravens to a Trial of Possession, and win, members of the Snow Raven leadership may be convinced to launch raids into the Federated Suns to blood new troops eager to test their abilities against a new enemy.†She suggested with a wicked smile
“And you would know how to set that up?†He asked she replied with a wicked looking but quite attractive smile “deal me in†he said taking up her challenge, he would win the Trial himself and take the Ravens on a raid of his own into the Combine.
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Offensive
Wallis, Regulan Feifs
Former Free Worlds League
20th December 3086
In a multi-pronged assault the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth launches an assault into the Regulan Feifs following the Regulans use of Capital weaponary to coerce worlds into joining its rule. Targetting the worlds of Trinidad, Newcastle, Norfolk and Wallis. The Northwind Highlander's Stirling's Fusiliers lead a multi-regiment force in securing Wallis from the Regulan realm.
Sitting on her Shootist's battered foot Lt. Colonel Alice Roberts looked over the destruction of the battlefield as her XO Major Samantha Lewis approached “how bad was it Major?†Roberts asked looking at the younger woman.
“We lost fourteen Mechs, six vehicles, ten Battle Armour suits and two aerospace fighters.†She said quietly a lot less than Roberts had feared the Regulans had been determined to hold Wallis. “Ten of the warriors survived with various injuries. The Fusiliers did well in their last operation.†She finished
“Last operation?†Roberts said surprised her regiment was far from combat ineffective and backed by the Highlanders on Northwind they would be back up to full strength within a matter of weeks.
“Aye, sir, the boys and girlies have decided that with Colonel Stirling now officially retired and with you now as their combat tested CO it was time for the Fusiliers to be retired.â€
“They did, did they?†Roberts said still not over the surprise, she had no idea how Andrea Stirling would react to that news, or how the other Colonels would. She couldn't even stop her troops making changes to her unit, what would the Colonels think? “So what was decided.â€
“Well sir, our contact states the Stirling Fusiliers, of the Northwind Highlanders Brigade, we're not entirely best placed to change that so officially the Fusiliers exist and are operational. Unofficially the unit wishes to be known as Roberts' Rangers†Alice Roberts could feel her cheeks warm at the embarrassment her troops had honoured her for her actions before and today. “Colonel, they wish to make a statement for now and for the future, they are proud to have served for The Cat, but now they have a new CO, a new name and a new purpose.â€
“I'm highly honoured Major†Roberts stuttered out “now lets have the Rangers finish off operations here†Roberts said wasting no more time waiting around climbing back up into her Mech.
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Good update, couple of typos i've spotted, I'm assuming the opening scene takes place on Liberty and not Libery and that Stirling's Fusiliers are leading a multi-pronged attack rather than a mulch-pronged attack (yes my spell check changed it first time as well).
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After reading her write-up in ER3145, Sterling McKenna wasn't even hatched when this story occurs. Of course, it could be a different Sterling McKenna.
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Good update, couple of typos i've spotted, I'm assuming the opening scene takes place on Liberty and not Libery and that Stirling's Fusiliers are leading a multi-pronged attack rather than a mulch-pronged attack (yes my spell check changed it first time as well).
Yes to both
After reading her write-up in ER3145, Sterling McKenna wasn't even hatched when this story occurs. Of course, it could be a different Sterling McKenna.
same name and genisis but far different path - born earlier - different life - dead earlier
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Finally into 3087!!!
3087
RDV Leviathan, Leviathan II-class Battleship
Arcadia, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
1st January 3087
The Rasalhague Dominion Vessel Leviathan, Leviathan II-class Battleship, jumped into the Arcadia system's nadir point, it was the first such time that a vessel of it's class had returned to the Homeworlds since the vessels originally helped move the majority of Clan Ghost Bear's civilian population from the Homeworlds to the Rasalhague Dominion. Today the ship returned to remove the last of the Clan's civilians from the homeworlds, jumping into the system's nadir point they found forty-two JumpShips split between the nadir and zenith points. Eight vessels identified as Ghost Bear vessels while the rest showed as Snow Raven vessels. Approaching the JumpShips were several DropShips and the CSV Perigrad Zalman, Clan Steel Viper's upgraded Leviathan Prime-class Battleship.
“saKhan, they are targeting the DropShips one by one.â€
“Snow Raven vessels?†Newly elected saKhan Ragnar Magnesson, Elected Prince of Rasalhague and successor to the recently deceased Aletha Kabrinski.
“Aff mostly, three of our own.â€
“Issue a request for Safcon to the Steel Vipers for those DropShips, they are not combat vessels.†Ragnar said quietly the communication officer began to act.
“Steel Vipers responding...†the officer replied
“Ghost Bears you taint our homeworlds with your freebirth saKhan, every Ghost Bear life in this system is forfeit because of this insult.â€
“So be it†Ragnar replied turning to the comm officer “have all our JumpShips jump as soon as they are able, we will maintain position to await our DropShips, advise the Ravens they are welcome to jump with us. Deploy defence screen†he said, from under the Leviathan ten DropShips, eight of the new Vanir Assault class and two Aesir carrier vessels launched followed by fifty fighters from the Leviathan itself among them were several Ostrogoth Heavy Fighters.
“Sir, the majority of the Snow Raven vessels will take more than twelve hours to jump.â€
“Then tell them they are welcome to join us for an honourable death.†Ragnar said as another DropShip, one of the Snow Raven vessels, being chased by the Perigard Zalman was destroyed by the massive battleship.
Several minutes passed as the Ghost Bear defence force closed on the incoming Steel Vipers, DropShips and fighters launched from the Perigrad Zalman as the two forces closed. The Ghost Bear vessels began with volleys of Sub-capital missiles covering the advance of the aerospace fighters, the missiles slammed into the incoming Steel Viper formation destroying three Steel Viper DropShips in a single volley aerospace fighters from both sides began to engage in dogfights.
The Perigrad Zalman continued to move forward blasting through the fighting DropShips and aerospace fighters blasting away at the vessels as if they were nothing. Even with the Leviathan moving into position to cover their aerospace and DropShip forces the Perigrad Zalman continued to target the DropShip and aerospace fighters.
“Sir, seven of our JumpShips have cleared the area, one Invader experiencing difficulties.†The sensor operator said Ragnar looked at the sensor image and made a decision.
“Contact that ship's captain order them to evacuate all of the JumpShip's crew onto the DropShips we will collect them before we jump†he said “helm, bring us out of battle recall defence screen. Weapons systems continue to fire on the Zalman. How many Snow Ravens have jumped?â€
“Six JumpShips away, 30 remain, they will not be able to jump in time.â€
“I would advise they surrender†Ragnar said as the Leviathan shook heavily under the impact of heavy weapons fire from the Zalman. The Leviathan had been upgraded to since its original construction but even then it couldn't match the upgraded Steel Viper vessel. Ghost Bear fighters and DropShips twisted out of combat turning back towards the Leviathan still under heavy fire from the incoming Steel Vipers despite the Leviathan's cover fire. It was hardly a graceful exit from the Clan Homeworlds any Clan would have wished but Ragnar Magnesson had accomplished his mission his Clan's Dominion would sustain them.
As the last Ghost Bear vessel arrived at the Leviathan the Steel Vipers arrived at the Jump Point and began to systematically destroy Snow Raven JumpShip after JumpShip. Ragnar opened up a communication channel to everyone in the system “Clan Steel Viper, today you have wronged the Ghost Bear. Tomorrow you will feel our wrath.†He said short and simple was all that was required, minutes later the Leviathan jumped clear of Clan space.
SLS Freedom (Republic-class Frigate)
Dark Nebula, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
3rd January 3087
The SLS Freedom drifted quietly through the open space of the Dark Nebula almost every system operating at minimal power. Six days ago the WarShip had jumped into the Dark Nebula beyond at a pirate entry point, it had then set a course towards the location of the approximate location of the Jade Falcon Shipyards after a 2.5G burst of acceleration all systems aboard the WarShip were powered down in an attempt to avoid detection. Two days after the entry two Pueblo-class DropShips detached from the Freedom setting off on their own courses. The two ships had been salvaged from the mothballed equipment in the Terran system, the design was all but extinct in the Inner Sphere, during the Star League era the vessel along with those of the Bug Eye-class to monitor events of interest and enemies of the Star League.
The Freedom was a Republic-class Frigate and perfect for this task after studying the M5 Casper Drones found in the Sol System's Kuiper Belt the SLDF had begun to try out some of its systems on regular WarShips. Although nowhere like a true drone vessel the Freedom's additional automation meant it had a far smaller crew and could operate on the lowest power frequencies.
Today the Freedom was in the Dark Nebula behind enemy lines to observe the launch of a new Jade Falcon vessel according to data collected by Star League Intelligence Operatives it was a “major capital vessel.â€
Captain Matthew Scott sat strapped to his command chair watching a side monitor as data came in the Shipyards were still two days away but the naval comm. scanners aboard the SLS Freedom and the two Pueblo vessels was giving them a near minute by minute account of what was going on at the shipyards. As both the Freedom and the Pueblos all had HPG systems they could keep in communication nearly instantly. “There she blows†he whispered watching as the sensor images changed showing the Jade Falcon vessel clearing the shipyard facility “what have we got?â€
“Looks like a Nightlord II-class vessel, what the Snow Raven's call the Snow Raven-class†the sensor operator reported after a moment “there second such craft.â€
Fantastic Matthew thought to himself quietly not as though the Clan's didn't have enough of the beasts. “Right it could be worse I guess, contact the Prometheus and Triton call them back, time we moved on. Bring systems up to operational strength.†He said, it was a judgment call there was no Jade Falcon forces even near the Freedom. Almost as soon as the systems came online however the Freedom's alarms activated, nearby the Jade Claw also powered up, the Fredasa-class Corvette had been laying in wait guarding the shipyards. “How can they be that lucky?†Matthew said quietly “come to port, naval autocannons and lasers fire as we bare. Launch all aerospace fighters, time to buy some time for those DropShips.†The Freedom turned firing naval autocannons along the port side flared to life targeting the Jade Claw bracketing the corvette with fire deep inside the WarShip the automated launching systems sent forty aerospace fighters into space with a single launch, unlike most vessels the Republic-class relied on automated launch and recovery systems taking human interference and input out of the process.
“The Nightlord is changing position†the sensor officer warned.
“They are still days away, no threat.†He said as the aerospace fighters swarmed the corvette adding their weapons fire to that of the Freedom. One of the Pueblo's, the Prometheus, docked with the Freedom while the other was only minutes away.
“Air Boss, recall Alpha Wing.†Matthew ordered so far four of the SLDF fighters had been lost in combat while the Jade Claw was coming off far worse to the Freedom's guns. “Helm bring port down six degrees reverse decrease acceleration, allow our inertia to take us forwards†he said hitting a communication panel on his chair “all hands prepare for micro gravity operations†he announced warning the crew. “Forward guns on target.†He ordered, the forward Heavy Naval Gauss Rifles immediately fired one striking the forward section of the Jade Claw tearing into the armour.
“Second DropShip dockingâ€
“Recall Beta wing, naval autocannons and naval lasers anti-aircraft mode defensive fire.†The second group of aerospace fighters began to disengage from the battle with the Corvette being chased by the Clan aircraft, the Jade Claw held off remaining at a distance. The automated docking systems aboard the Freedom rapidly docked the aerospace fighters while the vessel's gunners kept the clan units at bay. With everything secure the vessel's jump drive fired and the WarShip jumped from the Dark Nebula.
MSC Thessaly (Thera-class Carrier)
Regulus, Regulan Fiefs
Former Free Worlds League
12th January 3087
The WarShip MSC Thessaly, a Thera-class Carrier, surrounded by two Eagle-class Frigates and two Venturer-class Frigates supported by aerospace fighters and DropShips moved towards Regulus. In orbit around the world were three Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruisers Captain-General Corrine Marik had no intention on engaging the vessels or closing on the planet any further. “This is Captain-General Corrine Marik to Captain-General Kirc Cameron-Jones respond please.â€
“Corrine, welcome to Regulus, join me for tea?†Kirc Cameron-Jones replied after a few moments the transmission coming from the surface.
“Thank you for the invitation Kirc.†Corrine replied “but this is only a passing visit, I wish to deliver a message to you.â€
“The last I checked Marik has a Hyper Pulse Generator or have you not paid the bill?†He taunted her further assault DropShips were raising from the surface, Corrine wondered how many of them were armed with capital weapons or nuclear weapons not that she planned on closing on them.
“I wished to make this a personal deliver Kirc. Recently your Regulus-class vessels have been making an impression on the independent worlds of the Free Worlds League, I wish you to stop.†She said calmly naming the two vessels that were missing from the Regulan vessels present, if they had been here she would have been been tempted to attack.
“Corrine, there is no Free Worlds League. I am simply securing my borders. Have you ever considered what would happen should the Marian Hegemony, Lyran Commonwealth and the Magistracy of Canopus or the Capellan Confederation chose to invade these independent worlds, our nations would instantly be at threat.†Kirc stressed “your nation has done similarly, not to mention the Regulan worlds under your nation's control after your recent offensive.â€
“Kirc, if you continue to act like the local bully the WarShips you see today will return and you will feel the power of our guns.†Corrine said “the worlds I currently control I will be keeping as a continued reminder that is was your actions that brought us to this point.â€
“As have the actions of many†Kirc admitted
“We could still return to Atreus Kirc†Corrine said more softly “the Free Worlds League does not need to be a dead dream.â€
“Perhaps something for future generations Corrine Marik. Now, you will leave my space or your craft will be considered to be an invasion force which my defences with remove with extreme prejudice.â€
“We will be leaving soon Kirc, heed my warnings.†Corrine said shutting down the communications “take us away, keep an eye on the Regulan defenders ensure they make no hostile moves before we jump. Commodore, I will be in my quarters.†She said saluting the commander of the WarShip group hopefully Kirc did not test her again for the next time they would not be coming here to deliver a message.
SIS Candice Allard-Liao (Newgrange-class Yardship)
Warlock, St Ives Compact
18th January 3087
Following the completion of the St Ives Compact's second Kai-class Destroyer, the SIS St Ives, inside the Newgrange-class vessel the SIS Candice Allard-Liao the yardship jumps to the St Loris system to begin maintenance duties on the SIS Justin Allard-Liao, a Davion Block III-class Destroyer.
Disputed Territory
Raven Alliance/Draconis Combine
21st January 3087
With fighting continuing along the Federated Suns/Draconis Combine borders Clan Snow Raven forces take advantage of the Combine's distraction launching an attack on the worlds of Capra and Altdorf extending their border between the Federated Suns and the Draconis Combine threatening the Prefecture capital of Kaznejoy in the Draconis Combine. On both worlds the Snow Ravens find elements of the Seventh Ghost Regiment, one of the formations that went rogue and started the conflict with the Federated Suns in the first place. The Snow Raven warriors give the Draconis Combine defenders no chance to surrender destroying the unit to the man claiming both worlds for the Raven Alliance.
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Interstellar Expeditions Investigation
Haddings (Dead world), Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
8th February 3087
Since returning to the mercenary trade the First McCarron's Armoured Cavalry had landed on its feet their garrison contract along the Lyran Commonwealth/Free Worlds League border had been quiet, they'd dealt with three raids from Free Worlds League hired mercenaries but mostly it had been standard garrison duties. This time the unit had used to rebuild and reorganize towards the end of the contract the unit accepted a side contract on its way to Galatea with Colonel Elizabeth McCarron leading a Reinforced Mech Battalion with support to the world of Haddings.
Haddings was an “off the map†world destroyed following attacks during the First and Second Succession Wars its atmosphere was toxic to human life but over the years the Lyran Commonwealth had used the world as a staging ground for offensives into the Free Worlds League and Draconis Combine, short stays on the world were not to dangerous. In recent years with the Clans a far greater threat and the rise of the Star League Defence Force in the region Haddings had fallen from use.
According to Interstellar Expeditions intelligence units that had previously been on the planet had used the world as a dumping ground for equipment that couldn't be used at a particular time but could be repaired for future operations. As the Lyrans had stopped visiting the world Interstellar Expeditions had classified the cache as abandoned and now the First McCarron's Armoured Cavalry were tasked with finding it. “Colonel, nothing in sector six moving to sector seven†Captain Sam Kennedy, commander of the second company.
“Understood, nothing in sector three either Sam, we're moving on to sector five.†Elizabeth replied from her Emperor's command couch. This was easily the most boring mission she'd ever had the displeasure of working on, but her unit needed the funds and Interstellar Expeditions were willing to pay. “Third company any joy?†She asked on planet she had three Mech Companies an armour company and an infantry company, the Mechs were searching for the signal Interstellar Expeditions had given them while the armour and infantry secured the landing site. “Third Company respond!†Elizabeth called out again.
“Under...avy fi... request..... tance coordinates...†Came a broken reply soon after.
“First Second move to Sector Eight. Security full alert status!†She called out turning her assault Mech accelerating towards the location of the Third Companies search area. Across her sensor screen BattleMechs of both First and Second began to respond to her orders.
Through the toxic mist of Haddings the McCarron's Mechs weren't able to move as fast as they would in a normal atmosphere as their sensors were not completely trustworthy. Moving into Sector Eight they saw the first signs of battle with a wrecked Ghost BattleMech wearing McCarron colours, MechWarrior Leo Maxwell the cockpit crushed in by weapons fire. Suddenly the air was filled with autocannon and gauss rifle fire as six massive BattleMechs appeared out of the mists each Mech looked identical with three long barrels over their shoulders and two massive cannons on the end of each arm. The Mechs were also bigger than anything Elizabeth had ever seen before “what in the name of all that's holy?†She whispered seeing the Mech the enemy Mechs each painted bone white similar to how ComStar used to paint their units. “Open fire! We hold a numbers advantage people concentrate your fire. Second company get here as soon as you can, this could be a lot of trouble, Third Company respond.â€
“They are dead Colonel†a voice responded on the communication grid one totally alien to her before she could respond her ninety ton BattleMech was slammed by a trio of Gauss rifle slugs, her BattleMech staggered under the impacts barely staying on their feet. “As you soon will be†the voice said again the six massive Mechs were moving slowly almost methodically forwards cutting into the McCarron force with their combined fire.
“All units break to cover switch to alternate communications!†Elizabeth shouted twisting her BattleMech's torso blasting the enemy Mechs with her own Mech's arm mounted autocannons tearing into the armour. The huge Mech's seemed to shrug off the blasts as it slowly turned to face her, moments later missiles, lasers and autocannon rounds from Second company and her other remaining Mechs began to smash into the massive white machine.
“Oooo, someone has bite†the voice replied under the assault as the enemy Mech staggered but refused to fall “but we can take it, is this all you have?†The pilot asked turning one of the barrels over the shoulder was snapped and broken and one arm was badly damaged but the Mech still had one autocannon and two gauss rifles the return fire ravaged the Emperor's armour, in a slugging match the Armoured Cavalry were going to come off worse.
“Not all, Dropper bring rain my coordinates fire for effect, authorization McCarron Foxtrot-One-Sierra-Two†she said into the McCarron channel she honestly didn't care if the enemy could hear her, unless they were capable of some serious acceleration greater than anything she'd seen before. Within a couple of moments artillery missiles from her DropShip and two Arrow IV equipped vehicles began to rain down around them. The fire was directed at the enemy as best as possible the large white Mechs difficult to miss but the artillery missiles blast radius couldn't always be avoided damaging friendly units as well.
“A desperate move Colonel McCarron, just remember to watch your back.†The voice replied as the monster Mech that had attacked her began to pull back after weathering an Arrow IV missile to the torso and still standing. The remaining McCarron force continued to fire from their covered positions as the artillery bombardment followed the enemy Mechs for three kilometres destroying two of the enemy BattleMechs, their companions destroying the fallen Mechs cockpits killing the pilots and destroying any evidence to their origin. After the Mechs were out of sensor range Elizabeth and her remaining forces moved forwards slowly her three companies had been reduced to four operational lances, in the ruins ahead they found the remains of Third Company each MechWarrior having been removed from their downed Mechs and executed by what appeared to be LBX Autocannon scatter shot munitions overkill against fully armoured warriors let alone downed MechWarriors.
More surprising was that near Third Company's demise was the cache Interstellar Expeditions had sent them after to begin with. Nearly a battalion's worth of equipment and some very rare artifacts from the early Succession Wars including several pieces of equipment that dated back to the Star League-era that had been abandoned in the places they had been left. Using the mobile HPG transmitter Interstellar Expeditions had loaned the Armoured Cavalry Elizabeth called in support from the rest of her unit and an Interstellar Expeditions recover team. Out of all the salvage the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry were granted permission to select anything they wanted Elizabeth selects several vehicles including two partially wrecked Pollux ADA Heavy Tanks, these Air Defence Artillery tanks were designed by the SLDF as part of their massive SDS networks however the design had slowly disappeared from the Inner Sphere due to combat losses. The second thing McCarron selected was one of two Dragoon BattleMechs, a BattleMech designed by the short lived Amaris Empire which had supplanted the Terran Hegemony at the core of the original Star League. The design was largely lost to the Inner Sphere as Aleksandr Kerensky ordered its factories retooled and most copies destroyed before his forces left the Inner Sphere for the Exodus. A few survived in the neighbouring Successor States but they had been lost during the Succession Wars. Elizabeth McCarron also kept a record of the entire encounter with the mysterious oversized BattleMechs for study by her people as she was sure she would see them again.
Strana Mechty Orbit
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
10th February 3087
All across Clan space chaos ensues as HPG systems fail one after the other. Various Clan's blame each other for the failures leading to conflicts throughout Clan space. Adding to the confusion the McKenna's Pride, the McKenna-class Battleship that had served as flagship of Aleksandr Kerensky and of his son Nicholas Kerensky, preformed a low pass over the capital city of Strana Mechty firing several Heavy Naval Particle Cannon broadsides into the city devastating the scientist's section of the city smashing the Clan Gene Centre on the planet destroying the symbol of the Clan's genetic program.
The ship then boosted back away from the planet blasting into one of the orbital habitats hanging over Strana Mechty causing it to begin to de-orbit. As the McKenna's Pride pulled past the world's natural satellite blasting to pieces the Steel Viper vessel Steel Python, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, which had been in position as guard to Strana Mechty's pirate point. Several Naval Particle Cannon barrages later and the McKenna's Pride was clear to the pirate point, before any further Clan units could intercept the crew fast charged the McKenna's jump drive exiting the system.
The reaction of the Clans to the McKenna's Pride was insane anger spoiled out onto the streets as the Clans blamed each other for the actions brought by the rogue vessel. Clan Steel Viper recalls the Perigrad Zalman to Strana Mechty officially to provide additional protection to the world but everyone knew the Steel Viper anger at the loss of their Steel Python.
An extensive search of Clan Space and the surrounding Deep Periphery turned up no sign of the McKenna's Pride. The Founder's and Great Father's Flagship, the vessel that had led the Exodus Fleet, that had led the Liberation of Terra campaign and fought in the Periphery regions was gone.
Snow Raven/Davion Assault
Kaznejoy, Kaznejoy Prefecture
Draconis Combine
14th February 3087
Convincing the Snow Ravens to support his attack on the Draconis Combine had not been difficult for Prince Burton Davion in fact the Ravens had almost volunteered to assist the Federated Suns Prince allowing the forces to be painted in the colours of House Davion's First Davion Guards to support the idea that it was the Prince's unit leading the counter attack against the Combine. Burton did not understand it but something had happened to the Ravens they were beyond angry ready to attack anyone that came to close already there had been three reports of Clusters of Raven troops engaging in all out Trials that had so far led to the destruction of at least one unit, the Ninth Raven Striker Cluster at the hands of the First Raven Phalanx Cluster on Bad News. Although reports were sketchy according to Sterling McKenna it was a Clan matter and he would not understand, he had been able to find out that something had happened in the Clan Homeworlds but what was beyond his understanding or his ability to find out. One Clan MechWarrior had threatened him with a Trial of Annihilation if he attempted to ask about it again.
For the most part Burton didn't care he was off the sidelines and into the battle which was exactly what he wanted despite not having his Mech. Instead he'd borrowed a Snow Raven Dark Crow, the medium BattleMech nothing like his usual Templar Assault Mech but still something that he could use to persecute his attack against the Draconis Combine. Supporting him were his three Rabid Fox bodyguards in similarly borrowed Snow Raven Mechs, behind them were a strange mix of Davion Battle Armour and Clan Elementals. In the air Sterling McKenna and the air wings of Burton's DropShip the Avalon One dominated the skies.
Kaznejoy despite being a Prefecture capital was lightly defended – too lightly defended – only the Fifth and Thirty-second District of Galedon Regulars Regiments defended the world, neither unit had received their new designations as District of Midway forces since the loss of Galedon. However a new name and uniforms was the least of the units worries both units relied on pre-Clan War equipment putting them at a serious disadvantage against the advanced forces of Clan Snow Raven.
“Turkey shoot†would have been an accurate description of the battle had it not been for the Ravens being victorious over the Dragon's forces. On three occasions the Raven troops lost their composure and lashed out uncontrolled at the Combine troops, once on captured prisoners of war when an Elemental executed three downed MechWarriors with his suit's flamer. Despite these not being his troops Burton felt responsible for the deaths of the Combine troops and knew that the Elemental's actions could reflect badly on House Davion. Fortunately the Federated Suns Prince did not have to act against the Elemental, after the battle the soldier's own commander defeated and killed him in a Circle of Equals.
From the Kaznejoy HPG Prince Burton Davion sent New Samarkand a message informing the Draconis Combine's Coordinator that he was in charge of the world and he would be coming for New Samarkand next if the Coordinator failed to make peace.
Kell Hound Command
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
15th February 3087
After nearly a year of inactivity grieving for the death of her brother Katrina Allard resigns her commission with the LCAF enrolling with the Kell Hounds Mercenary Regiment owned by her parents. She is assigned to the Second Kell Hounds Regiment under the command of Christian Kell, son of Patrick Kell.
Star League Expansion
Former Free Worlds League
Inner Sphere
20th February 3087
After months of negotiations between the Star League Protectorate and the worlds of Castor and Devil's Rock, two former Free Worlds League worlds, both leading governments agree to join the Star League. In response the SLDF land the Second Knights of the Inner Sphere Regiment along with two battalions of support troops to Devil's Rock and the Second Royal Black Watch Regiment along with its support to Castor. Neither unit has previously been deployed off Terra and the world is seen as prefect due to its close proximity to the warring factions of the Free Worlds League.
The deployment to Devil's Rock is seen as a different proposition. For centuries the world has been a core for the black market and for gangs of criminal families, almost every faction that had controlled the world had failed to control these families however the original Star League had come the closest. As soon as news of the world joining the Star League Protectorate is made the criminal families launch a campaign of terror against the local government forces. The SLDF deploy the Twenty-first Striker Regiment and the First Royal Pathfinder Battle Armour Regiment to the world – eight Battalions of troops in total. The Pathfinders have been training since their creation for anti-insurgent battles which the SLDF choose to class the crime families actions as. Under SLDF order any active criminal engaging SLDF troops or local government in active combat is to be classed as an enemy combatant. The Eridani Light Horse are given plenty lee-way in their operations however Commanding-General Archer Christifori keeps a close eye on the continuing situation.
Draconis Combine/Federated Suns Conflict
Draconis Combine/Federated Suns border
23rd February 3087
With the conflict that was begun by Draconis Combine forces acting against orders was continuing to turn against the Draconis Combine with the fall of yet another prefecture capital falling to the Federated Suns the Coordinator makes a choice. Offering to cease all fighting against the Federated Suns. First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion makes Coordinator Vincent Kurita to agree to return Proserpina to the Federated Suns in exchange he agrees to release Kaznejoy back to the Draconis Combine the second loss of Proserpina is more of a symbolic on than anything else.
Nadir Point
Melissa, Melissa Prefecture
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
29th February 3087
There was a flash of light in the Melissa system as the massive Nightlord II-class Battleship Silver Talon entered via the Nadir point rising up above the star. With the entry of the Jade Falcon WarShip the system raised to its full alert level expecting an invasion force. The Jade Falcons however had no interest in invading the system instead they wanted revenge for the Star League's spying in the Dark Nebula, although the ship that had conducted that operation was missing both the SLS Determination, a Vincent Mk 45-class Pocket Carrier, the SLS Wild Scream a Patriot-class Heavy Missile Cruiser, and the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) WarShip Implacable, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser.
The Jade Falcon vessel sets a course straight for the Determination and Wild Scream which are at the Nadir point. Aerospace fighters and DropShips engaged in deadly duels while the two SLDF WarShips tried to avoid giving the Silver Talon a clear shot.
For almost thirty-two minutes the SLDF vessels were able to hold back the Silver Talon despite taking heavy damage unfortunately the Battleships massive amount of armour was able to absorb the fire while the smaller vessels suffered under almost every hit. Finally a paired Particle Cannon and Naval Autocannon barrage broke through the defences of the Wild Scream striking the heavy cruiser amid-ships disabling the vessel. With the Wild Scream out of the fight the Nightlord II moved through the Determination's aerospace fighters to deliver a devastating broadside into the smaller vessel. Lasers autocannons and gauss rifles tore through the smaller vessel crewmen began to evacuate the vessel as aerospace fighters continued to fight in now almost meaningless dogfights. The Silver Talon began to turn towards the disabled Wild Scream however the clan vessel was in for a surprise as the Implacable appeared in a flash of light of a risky inter-system jump.
Before the Jade Falcon's could react the Wolf (in-Exile) crew opened fire with a broadside of Naval Autocannon fire. The ship's helm officer almost instantly rolled not even taking stock of the damage their assault had done bringing a new rank of Naval autocannons into play hammering down more fire on the already damaged Battleship. Although the Jade Falcons continued to fire their weapons scoring some hits on the Implacable the battle was over the Jade Falcons had successfully tested their new WarShip and had gained a measure of revenge on the Star League Defence Force. Unwilling to chase the Nighlord II by themselves the Wolf (in-Exile)'s Implacable helped recover the remaining fighters from the Determination while also helping stabilize the crippled Wild Scream.
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Alshian, Silverdale Science Station
Alshian District, Rasalhague Dominion
4th March 3087
The scientists had spoken at length in front of Khan Bjorn Jorgensson and Loremaster Laurie Tseng however his words meant nothing. For the past several weeks Laurie Tseng had suffered a cough that simply wouldn't go away her warrior training had made her refuse to seek treatment until Khan Jorgennson had ordered her to speak with a scientist. After various tests the scientist had requested she return, on her arrival the Khan had also been present. Her mind had raced for a moment “had this scientist who likely spent his entire life behind a desk ruled she could not be a warrior?†Unfortunately it was far worse than that.
Over the course of three hours the scientist had explained that her body was slowly breaking down at the cellular level, by the end of the year she wouldn't be fit for even a garrison unit. It did not end there the scientist had informed them both that nearly forty members of the Tseng Bloodline had reported similar feelings over the last few weeks and their results showed similar degradation that hers showed. To make matters worse somehow the disease had gotten into the Ghost Bear breeding program, throughout the creches and Iron Wombs newborn and developing members of the Tseng Bloodline were dying due to completely unexpected identical symptoms.
They were looking at one thing – the destruction of a founding bloodline of the Ghost Bear Clan and Laurie Tseng had decided that she could not allow her blood to die without a fight. Turning to Bjorn Jorgensson fighting tears from her eyes she kept her voice level “My Khan, I request command of Omega Galaxy and the immediate transfer of all Tseng bloodline warriors to that command.â€
“That can be done, it would cut the effect of this virus on the rest of our Touman Quiaff?†He said completely business like, she knew he would be as angry at she at the situation but that the Ghost Bear Clan needed to survive it.
“Aff, but it would also provide me with a force that would be expendable.†She said a wicked glint entering her eye “doctor would extended space travel cause the condition to worsen?â€
“Neg, we could medicate to counter such problems, only extensive injury would cause further complications.†He confirmed
“My Khan, a snake needs its head knocked down a peg or two, these forces would be perfect for the task and I very much would like to see the Homeworlds once more.†She said looking back to the Khan.
“Then I will not stand in your way, fight well Loremaster Laurie Tseng.†He said the large Ghost Bear Khan rarely said much but when he did everyone knew he meant it. Within the week Omega Galaxy had been gathered on Rasalhague, the Khan had ordered enough Solahma troops had been assigned to the five Clusters as possible so the Tseng Blooded troops would have plenty support, each warrior willing to accompany them on this one way trip would instantly have their blood added to the Bear breeding program, despite not having a bloodname, helping pad it out after the loss of the Tseng blood. Soon the Bears newest enemy would feel their claws, after they were arrayed on Rasalhague The Raging Bears boarded the oldest JumpShips in the Rasalhague Dominion and headed for the Clan Homeworlds to victory and death.
Graduation Ceremony, NAIS
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th March 3087
After graduating from her NAIS Officer Candidate School Duchess Jaylen Davion, daughter of First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, becomes a Leftenant in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns. Unlike her elder brother Burton she does not join an AFFS Regiment instead she rejoins NAIS studying a Law Degree. Without the spotlight her brother receives she is able to pursue the course she wants for her life much like her Grand-father Hanse Davion had been able to do when his brother Ian ruled the Federated Suns.
Counter-offensive
Raven Alliance/Draconis Combine border
13th March 3087
The Draconis Combine launches a counter attack against Raven Alliance using all the remaining District of Galedon Regular Regiments supported by the two Genyosha Regiments and Naval units. Striking Pondicherry and Suianheer two Galedon Regular units and a single Genyosha regiment. The plan was simple punch a hole in the Snow Raven lines and make the Clan warriors of the Raven Alliance realize the Draconis Combine was not just going to let themselves be whittled down by their enemies.
On Pondicherry the Twelfth Galedon Regulars paired with the Twenty-first Galedon Regulars assault the Raven Alliance's Third Raven Auxiliaries Cluster and the Fifteenth Raven Battle Cluster. Three days after of fighting the First Genyosha Regiment landed on planet forcing the remaining Snow Ravens into retreat, the Third Raven Auxiliaries staying to cover the retreat of the Fifteenth Raven Battle Cluster.
The fighting on Suianheer was far more brutal the One hundredth Raven Battle Cluster and the Gamma Solahma Cluster were based. The Solahma Cluster almost immediately throws itself at the Galedon units in a suicidal charge with no care for their own lives the troopers happy to die in battle taking many of the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Galedon Regulars forces with them. The arrival of the Second Genyosha drives the One hundredth Raven Battle Cluster into retreat saving the remains of the Galedon troops.
With the Snow Ravens falling back from both planets the DCMS consolidates their position all four Galedon Regiments had taken heavy damage, which had been the plan, instead of routing reinforcements to the two units the Genyosha Regiments are ordered to remain on station while all four Galedon Regiments receive orders to stand down and remain in place. Soon after the four units received orders from DCMS high command that the time of the District of Galedon Regulars had come to a close the Twelfth and Twenty-first would merge to become the Fifth District of Midway Regulars while the Sixteenth and Seventeenths survivors would become the Sixth District of Midway Regulars. With all remaining Galedon units now destroyed or folded into the District of Midway Regulars Brigade the District of Galedon Brigade is officially removed from the DCMS Rolls.
Lyran Naval Excersise
Arcturus, Donegal District
Lyran Commonwealth
20th March 3087
With naval combat and WarShips becoming a bigger and bigger threat each year and the Clans fielding massive ships that could out stretch anything they could match the Lyran Commonwealth choose to reorganize their own WarShip fleet. Instead of deploying WarShips in single assignments they would deploy them in squadrons which the high command had named “Groups.â€
The Lyran Admiralty would have three such WarShip groups each named for and built around a Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser. Supporting the prize of the Lyran navy would be a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser and three Combat Corvettes either of Fox-class or Coventry-class. Finally each Group would be supported by a single Peter-class Scout vessel.
In an effort to prove the point of this reorganization the “Flygia†Group faced off against the “Yggdrasil†Group in simulated combat in the Arcturus with the remaining under-strength “Snow Fire†Group and fleet Flagship LCS Archon's Pride on other duties. The choice of Arcturus was more symbolic than anything else despite devolution of power from Tharkad to Skye the Isle was still a threatening to break from the Commonwealth, while Clan Wolf held territory on both sides of the former Lyran Capital. This show of naval strength would show all their nearby neighbours that should they face the Lyrans in space they would face more than one vessel, it also allowed the crews to train and practice their duties in an environment with multiple WarShips and support craft. For nearly seven days the two Groups “battled†and trained before splitting off to their own assignments.
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Clan Invasion
Jade Falcon/Lyran Commonwealth Border
4th April 3087
With Lyran naval assets far from the region Clan Jade Falcon launches an offensive on the worlds of Blue Hole, Roadside and Chahar. The mercenary and local militia forces defending these worlds are rapidly torn to pieces by the Clan troops with regular Lyran troops centred around Melissa's defence and the Arc-Royal defence Theatre. Unable to hold their ground the remaining troops retreat off the attacked worlds.
Lyran Counter Offensive
Lyran Commonwealth/Jade Falcon/Wolf Border
9th April 3087
With the Jade Falcons distracted Clan Wolf (in-Exile)'s Alpha Galaxy led by Khan Phelan Kell himself and supported by the WarShip Werewolf, a McKenna-class Battleship, launches an assault against the worlds of Graceland, Ballymore, Pandora, Garrison and Surcin supported by the Lyran Commonwealth's Seventeenth, Nineteenth, Twentieth and Twenty-fifth Arcturan Guards Regimental Combat Teams commanded by General Aiden Gray. The massed firepower of the Wolves and Lyran forces drive back the Clan forces on nearly all occassions except for Pandora which turns into a slugging match with the Seventeenth and Nineteenth Arcturan Guards both badly damaged in the fighting. Only the arrival of the Northwind Highlanders Northwind Renegades Regiment stopped the Lyran line breaking. As a final act of defiance Clan Jade Falcon's garrison release a Star of Sokar Urban Combat Units in what can only be described as one final act of defiance. The Sokars are given a single order to destroy as much of Pandora's industry as possible, it takes Lyran and Wolf (in-Exile) forces nearly two days to stop all ten combat vehicles which destroy all three BattleMech factories on the planet and one of the vehicle factories.
At nearly the same time the First Kell Hounds Regiment launched an assault on Garrison driving back Clan Wolf's forces. As the Clan is assaulted from every direction both Clans Wolf and Jade Falcon pull back cutting their losses, Clan Wolf intentionally abandoning Surcin due to its now isolated position.
Annual Exercise
Training Grounds, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th April 3087
As part of their continued relations Clan Nova Cat's Forty-fourth Nova Cat Cavalier Cluster and “Ambassador†Star Colonel Cassin Drummond are invited to Defiance for the annual war games between the Federated Suns and Clan Nova Cat. Due to recent agreements with the Star League Defence Force nearly two Battalions worth of Star League personnel are also on planet making use of the Defiance facilities. After seeing real Clan forces on Defiance the SLDF personnel challenge the Nova Cats to a Trial, the Federated Suns commander Colonel Drake McMillen refuses to allow guests of the Federated Suns to fight amongst themselves.
A compromise is agreed between all three parties forces from both the Forty-Fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers and the Defiance Training Battalion of the Federated Suns will face off against the Star League Defence Forces. Due to honour demands the Nova Cats ask the fight be done with powered weapons neither SLDF or AFFS unit likes the idea however the SLDF unit is insistent on the battle and the AFFS agree as long as no warrior is targeted intentionally and all eject systems are kept active any damage to a Mech's head or breach of centre torso armour and the unit is to be considered disabled.
During the battle each side honours the codes of conduct until an SLDF Hatchetman puts its arm mounted hatchet through the cockpit of Star Colonel Cassin Drummond's Huntsman OmniMech killing the Nova Cat commander. Although it seemed like nothing more than an accident to begin with the death of three more Nova Cat MechWarriors in the minute following Drummond's death made it clear to the Clansmen that they were being targeted. With this in mind the elite Nova Cat Cluster turned from a training exercise to a fighting unit, within the next several minutes six SLDF Mechs had been badly damaged or disabled, two MechWarriors confirmed dead.
Although on their own grounds the Defiance Training Battalion tried to keep out of the battle with Drake McMillen trying to keep his people safe due to the Training Battalion's position on the Nova Cat's side they become targets of SLDF aggression with the deaths of two MechWarriors being the result of massed SLDF fire. Drake McMillen commits his forces to the battle assisting the Nova Cats against the SLDF unit.
With the situation rapidly deteriorating the Kommandant of Training on Defiance orders all Mechs powered down. Those that refuse to power down are disabled forcibly by forces from the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment who are also using the facilities. The Wild Geese BattleMechs are each outfitted with a Centurion Weapon System, this system which communicates to chips attached to all engaged Mechs allows the Wild Geese to disable each battling unit without further damage or death however the damage is already done with nearly two dozen casualties in total from the three sides involved.
On hearing about the engagement Khan Canin Rosse calls for the Forty-fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers to be recalled from the Federated Suns. AFFS training command orders Colonel Drake McMillen stripped of his command and the Defiance Training Battalion restricted to base while all SLDF troopers are removed from the Defiance facilities pending an investigation by Star League Internal Affairs although no official charges are brought against any SLDF MechWarrior or Officer involved several receive reprimands.
With no ambassador and the Nova Cat liaison force withdrawn only the lower caste Nova Cats remain on New Avalon at the Clan embassy and base on New Scotland driving a small wedge between the Nova Cats and AFFS.
Command Barracks
New Samarkand, Midway Military District
Draconis Combine
14th April 3087
A week before Tami Moto had re-graduated as a MechWarrior and was ready to serve the DCMS once more but she had still been a MechWarrior without a unit or a Mech. Coordinator Vincent Kurita had disappeared shortly after qualifying her as a MechWarrior, perhaps his interest in her had ended after he realized she would be able to look after herself again. She'd wondered around the training base on New Samarkand for nearly a week before receiving orders, instead of being assigned back to the First Ghost Regiment she'd been assigned to the First Sword of Light Regiment! One of the most elite commands in the entire DCMS filled with the best and brightest of the Draconis Combine's warriors a unit that would see its share of combat. She knew that the Coordinator had to have had something to do with the assignment meaning he was happy for her to go to her death, something she was content with in a strange way.
After receiving her orders she had waited another two days before her travel papers arrived, during this time she'd prepared herself to leave New Samarkand and never return... that plan was not to be however when the orders had come in she found that the First Sword of Light was scheduled to land on New Samarkand for extended reorganization and to be assigned new Mechs and warriors. Somehow she saw Vincent's hands in the unit's assignment but she cared little the unit's arrival on the planet would be her time to return to a unit of the line.
Arriving at the base a day before the regiment had arrived Tami Moto was dressed in her best uniform and ready when the red and black Overlord DropShips of the First Sword of Light broke through the atmosphere and began to descend. She'd stood with nearly twelve other MechWarriors ready for their commander Tai-sa Soru Yukimura the Tai-sa's Tai-sho assault BattleMech marched over to them. The Mech was a C3 command Mech produced by the Draconis Combine to command companies of warriors, its angled armour adding to the character while particle cannon arms provided a bite. The pilot of the Mech descended from the Mech and marched over to them, for such a short trip from the DropShip to the parade line he had worn his uniform.
“Good afternoon, welcome to The Ivory Dragon†he said naming the First Sword of Light by its nickname. He was in his late forties with small gray patches appearing in his jet black hair “I am sure I will get to know you all in the coming weeks before we next face combat. For now you will be integrated into our Regiment. Those that fail to fit into The Ivory Dragon will be cut.†He said briskly drawing a pad from his pocket “I have no BattleMech assignments for any of you except... MechWarrior Tami Moto†he called out her name Tami's cheeks burned with embarrassment as she felt all eyes turn towards her.
“Here sirâ€
“Ah good our Ghost Warrior†he said naming the nickname she'd heard used to describe the Ghost Regiments, not everyone agreed with their forming from the gangs and Yakuza of the Draconis Combine during the run up to the Fourth Succession War. Despite all the years that had passed since their forming there was still disdain for the Ghost Regiments and all warriors attached to them even those with no gang connections “you have been assigned a Ryoken KU OmniMech, I hope you know how to pilot it?â€
“Hai, I piloted one previously†she answered
“You did in the Ghost Regiments?†He asked Tami remained quiet knowing her commander required nothing more to make his decision “well since you have been assigned a Mech before your companions and since my MechWarriors have had a long journey you will be on Flag Duty tonight.†He ordered, flag duty was an honoured one for any MechWarrior but it was also a boring one. For the duration of the night she would be in her OmniMech with the unit's flag attached to its back. She would be charged with challenging and welcoming all that came into the base through the main gates. “The rest of you will be in dress uniform, the Coordinator himself is coming to the base so you had better learn quickly how to behave like First Sword of Light MechWarriors.†He said with a smirk “attention†he then said all the new MechWarriors instantly came to parade inspection stance “dismissed†he said after a few moments. Not a single warrior said a word of Tami as they filled out most were annoyed that she'd been assigned a Mech, an OmniMech at that, already others were wary of her Ghost Regiment history Tami didn't care she had a Mech and a unit again.
Flag Duty, First Sword of Light Base
New Samarkand, Midway Military District
Draconis Combine
14th April 3087
The “Flag duty†had gone largely how Tami had expected it to her Ryoken KU OmniMech was identical to the Mech she had previously piloted although this one seemed newer than other Mech. Some of the panels in the cockpit were arranged differently and the C3 Slave unit which had been modular in the previous design was a fitted part of the OmniMech design. Although Tami assumed that was purely because this Mech was to be assigned to the First Sword of Light which used C3 nets extensively it did limit the design more than she thought was necessary. Fortunately despite her new commander's misgivings for Tami he had no outward issues with her configuring the OmniMech as she wished to as a result she'd outfitted her Medium design with an arm mounted pair of extended-range medium lasers, a torso mounted Multi-Missile Launcher with nine launch tubes and additional targeting, a third medium laser an anti-missile system and finally due to her “Flag duty†she'd opted for an arm mounted BattleMech sized sword allowing her to deliver powerful close range attacks and salute incoming visitors.
Beside her was a heavy No Dachi BattleMech which also carried a sword giving them a feel of uniformity. Although the two Mechs on Flag Duty shared a communications system the other warrior had not said a word since they had taken up station. The rain had stated less than an hour into their duty all Tami was left with was the sound of the rain against the hull of the OmniMech but it was glorious to be back in the cockpit without anyone to bother her.
The visitor they had been waiting for finally came into sight six heavy and assault Mechs surrounding a pair of limousines flanked by three Panther light BattleMechs on the one side three Jenners on the other. The Panther and Jenner which had been for so long associated with the Kurita family and the Draconis Combine, symbolism all the way. Although Tami could not see them she knew that nearby would likely be a company of Battle Armour and alert aerospace fighters all ready to dive in to the Coordinator's aide if he needed them. For now however she had a duty to preform and she would do so stepping out into road blocking the way she activated her communications system “this is MechWarrior Tami Moto, Flag barer of the First Sword of Light Regiment of the Draconis Combine Mustard Society, Identify yourself as my friend or be my enemy.†She said raising her Mech's sword in defiance of the enemy and defence of her Regiment. Against the firepower approaching it was a meaningless gesture but it was tradition.
“This is Coordinator Vincent Kurita, Head of the Kurita Family, Leader of the Draconis Combine and your Commander in Chief. I request to be allowed to be seen as a friend and to inspect my unit.†He said formally Tami almost smiled she hadn't expected him to answer himself.
“Transmit your clearance code†Tami said more formally. Moments later the code displayed on her screen “be seen as friend†she said bringing the sword up in front of her BattleMech in salute before stepping off to the side. Beside her the No Dachi pilot copied her move as the convoy moved passed them Tami saw a second message displayed on one of her screens careful not to change the movement of her Mech she opened the document it read a single line.
“I am happy to see you where you want to be and where you belong – VKâ€
Tami could feel her cheeks warm in embarrassment for the second time in the day. The Coordinator had returned her to a combat unit a place she could serve the Draconis Combine, what she always wanted to do. And the unit was on New Samarkand where the Coordinator could visit at any time and see her if he wanted. After playing along with Vincent during her rehabilitation and re-training she hoped the man that was her leader would continue to be a personal part of her life.
Another short month - I hope you enjoy anyway
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Time to turn up the heat...
Jade Falcon offensive
Lyran Jade Falcon border
8th May 3086
Continuing their assaults into Lyran Commonwealth periphery regions Clan Jade Falcon led by saKhan Uvin Buhallin, with Gamma Galaxy, and Loremaster Brian Pryde, with Alpha Galaxy. In a rapid series of assaults they force their way onto Zongshan, Pasig, Machida and Clemont. The two elite Clan galaxies secure the worlds quickly. For the most part the Jade Falcons under the command and with orders from Uvin Buhallin allow the Lyran defenders to retreat without too much harassment after securing the world. Forces under command from Loremaster Brian Pryde however were under orders to eliminate all opposition. On Zhongshan the First Coventry Jaegers Regiment, Hellfire's Hussars mercenary Battalion and the Terrible Treads Mercenary Armour Regiment were all destroyed to the man by the forces of Clan Jade Falcon's Alpha Galaxy with WarShips providing support fire against retreating DropShips.
The Jade Falcon moves show a change in the Clan's motives and moves no longer content with a singular drive on Terra the Jade Falcons are more interested in securing territorial gains and ensuring their Occupation Zone can survive more long term. It also sends alarm bells to both the SLDF and Lyran Commonwealth as the world of Melissa is slowly surrounded by Elite Clan Jade Falcon forces.
Hell's Horse Offensive
Jade Falcon Hell's Horse Occupation Zones
14th May 3087
With Clan Jade Falcon focused on the Lyran Commonwealth Clan Hell's Horses choose this time to make moves against the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone targeting three worlds Winfield, Maxi's Planet and Romulus. None are garrisoned by front-line Jade Falcon forces however the Hell's Horses see them as perfect places to test their newest unit the Pelican Small Craft. Capable of carrying armoured vehicles from orbit to the ground both The Stonewall Brigade, Epsilon Galaxy, and Heaven's Wrath, Zeta Galaxy, are each assigned two Stars of the craft and asked to test them thoroughly.
Three of the small craft are lost in battle against the Jade Falcons after the Hell's Horses intentionally do not request safcon however the Small Craft prove their worth as do the specially designed drop cocoons used for carrying armoured vehicles from space to the ground. On each of the worlds the Elite Hell's Horses troops are too much for the Jade Falcon garrison troops to handle and they are forced off world in quickly resolved Trials of Possession.
SLDF Third Royal BattleMech Regiment Command
Near Mandalgovi, Dieron
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
20th May 3087
After being deployed with First Division's Third Brigade 28th Hussar Regulars Regiment - Bolton's Rangers - and irregular SAS units to the Draconis Combine the Fourth Division First Brigade Third Royal BattleMech Regiment had expected to see its fair share of combat. Colonel Cameron Lee eager to impress and move up the SLDF ladder had been excited to take the unit on its first combat deployment.
Unfortunately the powers that be namely Bolton's Rangers commander Lieutenant-General Jerry Wagner had already decided that the unit would not be seeing combat instead he'd arranged with the local Drac commander to have them assigned to Dieron barely over the border from the Star League Protectorate worlds the Third Royal had just been deployed from, there was almost no need for their deployment, Dieron was a fortress world of the Combine and under no threat of attack.
As Jerry had described it the Third Royal's deployment would allow for more experienced Draconis Combine units to move around and allow the Third Royal to observe how the Combine worked before they faced a combat situation. Over a year on Dieron the Third's personnel had seen plenty of how the Combine operated and how little they respected the SLDF assigned to help them.
Colonel Cameron Lee's task was simple keep his men and women motivated and disciplined enough so that if an attack came they were ready. He had created patrol assignments for the entire Regimental Brigade that took each units all over the Khentii Mountain Towers which the unit had been charged with protecting. The terrain was challenging and there were five Factory complexes throughout the area for them to check in with and make sure everything was running smoothly.
To show that he was an active commander and not an “arm-chair†leader Cameron Lee often took to commanding his First Battalion on the patrols today they had the simple task of patrolling the outskirts of the town of Mandalgovi and the Luthien Armour Works 4R-Z facility. All in all an hour long patrol.
Throttling his PV-1K Privateer BattleMech forward he led the Battalion out of the base. The Mech was a Combine designed Mech that had been built for export, as part of the Regiment's mission they had exchanged some of their own Mechs for locally produced Combine units. This would give the unit a sense of belonging to the nation it was helping defend and, the idea was, it would make the local population more forgiving and welcoming for the outsider unit. Unfortunately this rule it seemed did not apply to the Draconis Combine, the Mech he'd been given in exchange for his Penetrator was a Mech that was specifically built to sell to mercenary and foreign units there was almost nothing Combine about it in its styling.
Less than a kilometre from the base however and the routine patrol turned into anything but routine Cameron's communication system activate with an almost panicked message from Command “Colonel, we have what appears to be a Clan Cluster moving to assault Mandalgovi, they have come from nowhere no DropShips detected.â€
“Understood moving to intercept, prepare the entire brigade for battle if we require back-up, pass to Combine command your information.†Cameron ordered throttling his Mech forward to more than sixty kilometres an hour. They seventy-five ton Mech was quite fast moving once it got to speed. The rest of the Battalion made up of Medium and Heavy Mechs continued to match his pace or follow as quickly as they could. Mandalgovi was not a large town perhaps only around sixty-seventy thousand inhabitants but what made it important was it provided housing for all five of the nearby factories and it had airstrips for flying out completed products and in supplies. Approaching the town they could see explosions on the eastern side of the town “all units fire at units as they come into your range brackets do not engage units within town limits unless you are guaranteed a shot.†He ordered intending on minimizing civilian casualties especially from SLDF guns.
Across the SLDF line missiles, particle cannons and autocannons lit up engaging the Clan Mechs Cameron slowed his Mech to a walk as he raised his Mech's arms. On the left arm was an Extended Range Particle Cannon while on both right and left arms was an ultra type autocannon. Not the largest types of weapons but more than capable of supplementing the Particle Cannons firepower. Targeting a Clan Timber Wolf Cameron fire the particle cannon first. The shot caught the heavy Clan design high on the shoulder, the dark grey Mech turned to face Cameron's BattleMech raising its laser arms towards him almost instantly both large lasers fired burning into his Privateer's armour. Moments after the lasers Long Range Missiles launched from the shoulders of the Timber Wolf peppering Cameron's Mech with missiles.
After serving as a Major in the First Royal BattleMech Regiment Cameron Lee was no stranger to combat nor was this the first time facing a Timber Wolf. Cutting to the right he fired his two autocannons and particle cannon together cutting into the Clan Mech's armour, the Clan Warrior did not even move instead twisting his Mech's torso to track Cameron's Privateer while continuing to fire its laser arms burning away more armour. As the distances closed Cameron continued to fire his autocannons and added in the Medium Range Missile launchers mounted in the Privateer's torso section twenty of his own missiles engaged the Clan Mech. Across the battle line Cameron could see SLDF and Clan Mechs fighting and falling however he was yet to see any insignia or to receive any communications from the Clan force. Trying to ignore his worries Cameron cut in his Mech's jump jets launching the Privateer into the air avoiding a missile salvo from the Timber Wolf. The Clan warrior was not to be completely outdone however and pursued Cameron firing a large laser blast into the Privateer's rear armour, the blast burned away all the armour there exposing the internal structure and critical areas of the Mech fortunately it caused no more damage.
Turning and twisting his Mech he cut in the autocannons and missiles wary of the Mech's heat build up he left out the particle cannon but did add a pair of torso mounted medium lasers cutting more into the Timber Wolf. The Clan Mech continued to blast away with its arm mounted lasers burning away more and more armour. Off to Cameron's right a sixty ton Rifleman stepped into view flanked by a sixty-five ton Mech this one a Catapult, similar to the Timber Wolf just lacking its laser arms. Both Mechs opened fire on the Timber Wolf together autocannon fire from the Rifleman and missiles from the Catapult tore into the Clan design savaging its armour. Turning to face the Timber Wolf Cameron added his own missiles autocannon and particle cannon. Even an elite Clan warrior could not hold his Mech up under this withering assault, as the Clan design toppled to the side a group of SLDF Battle Armour moved up on Timber Wolf to remove the pilot. All around Lee had noticed the Clan Mechs were gone, there was certainly not a cluster's worth of them here.
“Lee to base, where are the rest?â€
“After you headed them off they headed for factory complex 4R-Z. Second Battalion has engaged them there.â€
“Understood, we are mopping up stragglers here, Third Company will remain while I take first and second companies to assist Second Battalion.†Lee confirmed the base quickly acknowledged his orders “Captain Smart, continue mop-up operations when the Battle Armour and infantry arrive check on downed pilots then begin to check on the local population make sure we don't have any serious civilian injuries that get over looked. If you can try and find out which Clan force this lot belong to.â€
“Yes sir†Smith replied curtly Lee knew he wouldn't but it never hurt to remind people of their jobs.
“First and Second double time it to Facility R4-Z Second Battalion is already engaged, stick with your lance mates but don't worry about company or Battalion marching orders.†He said if Second Battalion were engaged with the rest of the Clan Cluster they may need assistance in a quicker fashion rather than an orderly one.
Facility R4-Z was not one of the biggest the Combine had but it was important, there tracking systems for everything from Battle Armour suits to assault Mechs were built. When Cameron arrived Second Battalion were holding the line but only just. Three of his own lances had arrived and were supplementing Second Battalion's firepower but it was a tough slog. Like the other Clan forces Cameron could not see any insignia on any of the Mechs present instead he saw Hellbringers, Summoners, Timber Wolfs, Dire Wolfs, Nova Cats, Shadow Cats, Stormcrows and Adders all front-line OmniMechs but also designs from all different Clans. He also noted not a single Elemental suit, pure Mech Clusters were uncommon with the Clans – not unheard of just uncommon.
Instead of charging straight in Cameron observed the Clan force, it fought like nothing she had seen before the Clan Mechs using near perfect coordination in their strikes. Scanning the forces Cameron engaged with his autocannons adding fire to warriors that needed while at the same time watching the enemy formation, his people held the advantage in numbers and the Clan forces were slowly breaking and retreating despite the damage being caused to the Inner Sphere force. Finally as a Clan Hellbringer fell Cameron saw a glimpse of an insignia on the side of a Mech obscured by the mists of war “Command lance on me†he ordered marching his Privateer forward missiles and lasers targeted them but the SLDF force continued forward. Behind the fallen Hellbringer was three Mechs that looked like nothing Cameron had seen before “Lee to base, time stamp all sensor recordings from now, have encountered three unknown designs repeat three unknown designs in Clan force.â€
“They could be alternate OmniMech configurations?†Command suggested in the fog of war it was easy to mistake one Mech for another especially when OmniMechs were involved.
“Negative, they look completely different for any and all OmniMechs I am familiar with two designs appear Medium class no bigger than a Stormcrow†he said forging forward towards them, the three Mechs were turning away from Cameron's charge. The smaller two Mechs looked identical with large cannons over their shoulders and what appeared to be lasers set into the torso section flanking the cockpit. Both Mechs twisted their torsos in his direction bracketing his command lance in particle cannon fire. Dodging to the side Cameron's move avoided the larger Mech's fire that bathed his command lance in missiles. The four flights of missiles fired from the larger central Mech exploded as they flew through the air covering the area in inferno explosive fuel all three Mechs in Cameron's command lance were covered in the fiery jelly. “Jesus Christ!†Cameron screamed seeing his lancemates covered in fire, he knew he couldn't help them at the moment but he could report on his last opponent “the final Mech is a lot bigger, large missile racks in the arms and torso it is capable of firing inferno missile rounds.†He said watching the Mech turn to face him “the cockpit appears to be very low possibly even mounted near the engine.†He said squeezing off rounds from his autocannons and missiles coating the enemy Mech in fire, the other design appeared to shrug off his fire as if nothing had hit it at all. Instead the enemy Mech fired all four missile launchers directly at his Privateer, the missiles instead of exploding as they flew through the air instead slammed into his Mech causing damage all over the place. The Mech's internal temperature sky rocketed and several of Cameron's systems shorted out in the cockpit, Cameron Lee fought to stay in command of his Mech but it was a losing battle the missiles had completely compromised his BattleMech's electronics nothing seemed to be working at all.
“Punching out!†He called out however his communications systems had failed, Cameron pulled the ejection handles but nothing happened instead his Privateer completely without control staggered under a second salvo of missiles before slamming into the ground knocking the pilot unconscious.
Three hours later recovery units were able to prize Cameron Lee from his downed Mech, the Colonel was alive barely the Mech had completely locked down around him its electronics fried. Engine safety systems were all that had saved Cameron's life and his Mech from total destruction. The Third Royal BattleMech Regiment had held the Clan force at bay saving both the factory and city losing near a Battalion's worth of Mechs in the process, unfortunately they had been unable to stop the Clansmen escaping off the world. Adding to their woes none of Cameron's gun camera footage had survived the battle his Mech's ROMs completely corrupted by the missiles used by his enemy, only the Colonel's broken transmissions made during the heat of battle survived and even those were questionable largely due to the fog of war. Cameron Lee was convinced he had seen three brand-new designs but few others agreed with him, most believed that the Third Royal BattleMech Regiment, an inexperienced unit with a commander eager to impress had lucked out and won their first battle against some opportunistic Clansmen. For the warriors that fought that day none were completely convinced that was the case.
Grand Council, Clan Halls
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
30th May 3087
Since the McKenna's Pride had attacked Strana Mechty and disappeared from Clan space the HPG network had been best described as “patchy†at worse “non-existent†now with the majority of the network restored the Clans had found that they were under attack from forces unknown. Nearly six worlds had been attacked by forces unknown the Star Adder holding of Priori was completely over run with no less than six Clusters and the system's WarShip are confirmed destroyed.
An immediate Clan council was called with almost all the Inner Sphere and Periphery based Clans attending only by HPG link, only Clan Nova Cat's Khan Canin Rosse and saKhan Ajax Drummond attend in person after arriving in the Homeworlds with two Galaxies of Nova Cat warriors a few days before.
“My Khans, the Homeworlds have come under assault by forces unknown†Loremaster Dagmar Lahiri said, he was a Star Adder by birth. “A motion has been requested by Clan Star Adder to...†before another word could be spoken there was a knock at the doors “this is a session in progress!†Lahiri snapped “Ebon Keshik do your duty.†He called on the Elementals charged with the Grand Council's security. Two Elementals opened the doors to reveal a pair of warriors dressed in the ceremonial outfits of Clan Burrock. “Halt!†Lahiri shouted stopping the Elementals from acting further “Identify yourself†Lahiri ordered stepping down from the Loremaster's position in the Grand Council making his way through the assembled Khans to just inside the hall flanked by the two Elementals.
“I am Loremaster Brenna Linn of Clan Burrock" the warrior announced "we have been reborn in the fires of Priori and wish to return to our place within the Grand Council.†She was young perhaps about twenty-five years old with blonde hair said her face covered by the Burrock mask.
“The Burrocks are long dead†Loremaster Lahiri said quietly
“We have been reborn much like the Wolves were reborn from the ash of Clan Jade Wolf, we have been reborn from the embers of the Star Adder forces on Priori.â€
“Clan Wolf was absorbed in a broken Trial, we were reborn because we were never absorbed in the Clan way. Your Clan broke our laws and failed to vindicate itself in combat. Your Clan is dead.†Khan Nathan Fetladral said dismissively, not another Khan spoke a word.
“This council has spoken, you are not welcome here.†Lahiri said turning his back on the two warriors “Ebon Keshik continue†he said stepping into the room as the two Elementals stepped forward to arrest the two warriors who claimed to be Burrocks as the heavy doors closed behind Lahiri the Loremaster began to walk back into the room. Suddenly there was a massive explosion from outside the room which tore through the doors killing Loremaster Dagmar Lahiri in an instant, the seats of the Not-named Clan and those of the fallen Clan Widowmaker were burned in an instant as various Khans dived for cover, a final insult to those Clans that had failed. The unthinkable had happened the Grand Council chamber had been attacked by an outside force with the Loremaster dead the Council broke for the day as each Clan considered its options.
Hope you enjoy
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Nice spotted a couple of things you wrote 'not a late town' should this read 'not a large town' and the Rifleman is 60 tons, i am not aware of any 65 ton version.
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Nice catches I appreciate them hope you enjoyed otherwise
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Uh-Oh The Society rears it's ugly head?? Who knows For the next exciting adventure stated tuned same Clan-channel same Clan-time
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Uh-Oh The Society rears it's ugly head?? Who knows For the next exciting adventure stated tuned same Clan-channel same Clan-time
Glad someone noticed.
We are at sort of the "Alternate Wars of Reaving" not as well written as the canon one but keeping in line with the timeline. So there will be a little more than normal Clan fun for a wee while... I also won't be completely ignoring the Homeworlds in the long-term future like it seems canon plans to, but that's still to come
Emergency Grand Council Session
Conference Room, CSV Perigrad Zalman (Leviathan Prime-class Battleship)
Strana Mechty Orbit, Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
1st June 3087
Barely a week had passed since the attack on the Grand Council chambers and Dagmar Lahiri being laid to rest before Khan Brett Andrews of Clan Steel Viper called the Khans back together for an emergency session. Word of the attack on the Grand Council had spread throughout the population quickly, this combined with the damage caused by the McKenna's Pride had caused great unrest throughout the Katyusha, the capital, and beyond. As a result the Ebon Keshik had been deployed almost constantly to trouble spots however the unit was being over worked and a flash point wasn't far away.
With these troubles on the world Khan Andrews had offered the Grand Council a conference room aboard the CSV Perigrad Zalman which had remained in orbit since the McKenna's Pride had gone missing.
“We are at a precipice the Burrocks claim to have been reborn, there is civilian problems throughout Clan space, our military might, our authority is being questioned. We need to make a stand.†Brett Andrews had begun only to be interrupted by laughter from the Jade Falcon HPG link. “Khan Pryde, I would like to remind you that respect if due to your peers.â€
“My peers?†Diana Pryde replied a new edge to her voice “how can you, any of you think that you are our peers? Only Khan Rosse of the Nova Cat Clan comes close to our station.†She boasted “each of us controls dozens of worlds while you can barely control one. Allow me to deploy Falcon troops to Strana Mechty and we will have peace within days.â€
“Neg!†Both the Cloud Cobra and Goliath Scorpion Khans said together.
“If Jade Falcons were deployed each of us would find our peoples subjugated to Jade Falcon law and justice†Hollyann Kardaan the senior of the two Cloud Cobra Khans objected “something that I will not allow.â€
“The you are beyond luck.†Diana Pryde sneered
“I suggest instead we elect an ilKhan.†Hollyann Kardaan suggested smirking at Khan Pryde's image as the Jade Falcon Khan's face twisted in disgust and surprise.
“I will not support a combined effort at Invasion again, we all saw what happened to the Smoke Jaguars†Canin Rosse objected
“And we all saw how your Nova Cats took the easy path.†Stanislov N'Buta Khan of Clan Star Adder barked his Clan had fought and bled beside the Smoke Jaguars largely because the Nova Cats refused to take part in the Invasion.
“We may have taken a different path but hardly an easier one. A renewed invasion of the Inner Sphere will help no-oneâ€
“Agreed†Khan Nathan Fetladral of Clan Wolf said from his own HPG link.
“And still the “Invaders†think everything revolves around them.†Hollyann Kardaan said quietly “instead I suggest an ilKhan, who could lead our people through this trying time.†She suggested “a leader who could supplement security forces with those under the banner of the ilKhan. Any actions taken would be accountable to the ilKhan.â€
“I could support such a plan.†Khan Salas Kufahl Khan of Clan Coyote said
“As could I†Khan Garret Sainze of Clan Fire Mandril agreed
“With this in mind I would suggest that Khan Brett Andrews should be this person.†Stanislov N'Buta said “the Steel Vipers are the one Clan...â€
“The one Clan that has broken every rule we hold dear†Khan Bjorn Jorgensson snapped “a man who turned that ship you are all on against unarmed JumpShips carrying civilians of Clans Ghost Bear and Snow Raven. I can promise you this, No Ghost Bear will listen to a single order issued by that Khan.†Jorgensson said his anger boiling “until some sanity returns to these chambers consider the Ghost Bear Clan apart from you all.†He said cutting the Ghost Bear link to the rest of the Council.
“And with that the Ghost Bear abandons us, just as its Touman has abandoned the Homeworlds. I believe their Abjuration from this Council is in order.†Brett Andrews said a quick count of votes was made Hell's Horses, Jade Falcons, Coyote and Sea Fox Clans all decided not to vote while Clan Nova Cat, Wolf and Snow Raven all vote to keep the Ghost Bears despite Jorgensson's outburst. The Khans of Clans Goliath Scorpion, Steel Viper, Cloud Cobra, Fire Mandril and Star Adder all voted for the removal of the Bears. Without the Bears to defend themselves their Clan was removed from the Grand Council.
“And with this issue done I believe a new ilKhan should be voted into place†Hollyann Kardaan said “I add my vote to the Star Adder vote to nominate Khan Brett Andrews of Clan Steel Viper to this position.â€
“With two votes the nomination is made Brett Andrews do you accept this nomination?†Stanislov N'Buta asked.
“Aff, I humbly will.â€
“Are there any other nominations?†Hollyann Kardaan asked the room was silent none of the other Clans challenging the three Snake Clans. Each and everyone of the remaining Khans had realized one thing Clans Steel Viper, Star Adder and Cloud Cobra were working together in the Council chambers. Between them they held more military forces in the homeworlds than any other Clan to vote against them would likely bring fire onto the other Clans. “Then with no challenger, we have a new ilKhan, Brett Andrews.†She said sitting down as Brett Andrews raised from his chair.
“We must stop these threats to our way of life by any means, this so called Burrock rebirth must be put down, our lower castes must understand the order created by the Founder remains and cannot be challenged.â€
“ilKhan, I would bid Clan Star Adder's entire Touman to put down resistance on the world of Priori, a world that is a Clan Star Adder holding by rights.â€
“Rights of combat which they failed to defend†Diana Pryde quipped quickly, Brett Andrews ignored the Jade Falcon Khan.
“For one month you Clan has sole rights to the campaign to retake Priori†Brett Andrews said nodding to Stanislov N'Buta without even a moment of thought “I will also deputize Clan Cloud Cobra to bring Stana Mechty back to a sense or order. All other Clan military forces are to remain within their enclaves or be classed as hostile.†He said again almost without thought. To all the other Khans it was obvious the Snake Clans had agreed these moves long before this council, they also had a power block none of the other Clans could currently match, old agreements and alliances long broken. With the Ghost Bears removed the Inner Sphere and Periphery Clans had one less voice on their side, the agreement between the Inner Sphere Clans to protect each other's positions in the Occupation Zones from Homeworlds aggression it appeared did not extend to operations in the Homeworlds.
Press Conference,
Quantico Island, SLDF Command
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
14th June 3087
Instead of speaking as a Major-General of the Star League Defence Force Bannister Cameron spoke to the Inner Sphere's united press as the political representative of the Star League Protectorate. Standing outside the rebuilt Command and Control Complex on the Quantico Islands Bannister could not feel more proud of his people's work in the restoration of the SLDF facility “Ladies and Gentlemen thank you for coming today today I speak to you not as a General, not as an officer, but as a man.†He began carefully he had no intention on coming across as a politician but this announcement was nothing to do with the military either. “Several months ago a Star League Exploration Team discovered a human colony that had been cut off from the rest of the Inner Sphere for hundreds of years. They were living on a cold dark world that had been lost to us, these people were a testament to the human condition of never giving up however their world was dying and their very survival required pastures new.†He said pausing “I offered them such support, however these people wished to keep their independence and preserve their culture.†He said looking over the assembled reported into each of the cameras.
“To that end†he said “with the agreement of Protector of the League Archer Christifori, I offered them Mopelia Island on New Earth.†Bannister said hearing the shock move through the crowd. “Mopelia Island the site of a horrific and cowardly attack in 3076. Since then the world has been allowed to languish, with the arrival of this group, I hope to begin to mend the wounds caused to New Earth and to give this group their second chance. For the immediate future Mopelia Island will be off limits to all outsiders, anyone attempting to breach this cordon without authorization will be arrested.†He warned because the press were assembled the message would hopefully go out loud and clear but he knew that some would try and breach the cordon.
“What is this group called?†Mr Darren Tillsdale reporter for Interstellar News Network asked “what was their world called, how did they get there?â€
“The group is called the Fidelis†Bannister said carefully he couldn't think of a reason for anyone else to know the name “they were originally from a Star League Defence Force JumpShip that miss-jumped during the reunification war.†He said, JumpShip accidents were notorious especially during times of conflict, a single thirty light year jump into the unknown with no communications ships could easily be lost, entire units forgotten. “During their time apart from the rest of us the Inner Sphere they have developed their own cultures and processes. It will take them time to adapt to life within the Inner Sphere, I would ask if you can all please respect their privacy until they are ready to join the rest of us.†He said looking into each of the cameras one by one “Thank you.â€
Fourteenth Star League Games
Star League Stadium
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
18th June 3087
Removed from the position as First Lord Chancellor Naomi Centrella, the Capellan Confederation leader ordered MechWarrior Jason Zaklan famed Capellan War Hero was sent by the Chancellor to steal the show at the Star League Games and win the event. In his custom Ti'Tsang dispatches each of his opponents with a variety of hatchet blows and pulse laser barrages his Mech's Triple Strength Myomer enhanced the physical strikes cutting into the other BattleMechs devastating his opponents. The games are marked as one of the fastest to date and by the massive pro-Capellan publicity after it is all over, small riots between the various factions living on Solaris however Star League garrison and security forces keep everything from getting out of hand. Calls within the Capellan Confederation for a reborn Xin Sheng movement whip many of the traditional Capellans up into a frenzy with many calls of Sun-Tzu Liao's name on many worlds, this reaction comes as much as a surprise to Naomi Centrella than anything as she thought most of the pro-Capellan and pro-Liao feelings were long dead and buried.
Starliner One
Thorin, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd June 3087
After a cruise through the Federated Suns and the Draconis Combine the civilian WarShip Starliner One arrives at Thorin where it is met by five Tug-class DropShips under the ownership of Virgin Global and Interstellar. Although the Starliner One was designed to make an extended trip its journey had put a far stronger strain on the vessel than was expected leading to this hardly glamorous maintenance stop.
Company owner Sir Richard Branson X travels from Terra to help with Public Relations to cover for the unscheduled stop. While on board speaking with the passengers Branson authorizes free flights over the University of Thorin and around the system to make it up to the passengers for this unexpected stop.
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I suspect more trouble on the way.
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I suspect more trouble on the way.
I'll give the same answer to a similar comment Shadow_Wraith made on the BT Main Forum
:) looking forward to your version of what will be happening at the homeworld clans!
There's a term for it... bad-to-worse }:)
Star Adder Offensive
Priori, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
8th July 3087
The Star Adders had been granted the rights to retake Priori from the ilKhan and they did not intend on failing. Using their three Bug-Eye-class Surveillance-craft to scout the system the ships had jumped in at pirate points to scan the system and identify threats. As almost a sign of the Star Adder's waiting bad luck the Bug-Eye-class vessel Duty jumped into a pirate point deep within the system intent on scanning the system with its powerful sensor array. The Duty flashed into the system almost directly on top of the Mako-class Corvette Stone Crab, the two ships small K-F fields intertwined almost instantly vapourizing both craft lighting up the Priori sky like a massive flair. It was a one in a billion, perhaps a trillion of a chance space was so expansive it never happened unless during a massive invasion but today of all days the unthinkable had happened alerting the Burrocks on the planet and in space to the incoming threat.
The remaining two Bug-Eyes had confirmed the “Burrock†Clan had four remaining WarShips in the system including the Prinz Eugen, the Texas-class Battleship that had served as the Clan's most secure and isolated prison since their founding. A ship no-one had even noticed was missing from the Strana Mechty system.
Taking no chances the Star Adders jumped their entire WarShip command star into the system before any ground forces. The five WarShips were tasked with forming a safe zone for incoming JumpShips and ground forces. Unfortunately as the Absolute Truth, a Nightlord II-class Battleship, the Nygaard, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, the Cameron's Flame, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser, and the Arcadian Asp, a Fredasa-class Corvette, emerged and turned their guns towards the enemy the Damien's Disciple, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, activated in 3077 from one of the Brian Caches turned its guns on the Star Adder vessels.
Unprepared for the surprise assault within their own lines the Arcadian Asp disappeared in a ball of flame almost instantly. The small corvette's armour standing no chance against the Naval Autocannons on the larger Battle-cruiser. The Nygaard quickly followed suit, the Sovetskii Soyuz was designed as a sniper in the WarShip world with long range weapons, the Clans had never upgraded any of the Star League-era and the Nygaard and her crew paid the price as the Black Lion turned its guns on the Heavy Cruiser annihilating the ship in a broadside of fire.
As both the Absolute Truth and Cameron's Flame turned to engage the Damien's Disciple the Black Lion fired it's last broadside split between the two vessels before jumping from the Priori system using its Lithium Fusion Battery. With the static defences and the Burrock WarShips approaching the Absolute Truth and Cameron's Flame have no other choice but to retreat from the system and the liberation of Priori would wait for another day.
Days later the remaining two Star Adder Bug-Eye-class vessels returned to the system via pirate points confirming two things as they did. Firstly the Damien's Disciple had joined the Burrock forces in the system adding to their already impressive defences. And Secondly the Burrock defenders had taken a strategy from the Usurper's own play book, during the defence of Terra under Amaris the defenders had pushed asteroids towards the star's jump points before blasting them to pieces creating a thick debris cloud that covered the jump points. Priori had always experienced problems with debris which was why initial scans had missed the asteroids moving towards the jump points now the Bug Eyes showed both jump points were nearly completely unusable and there were more asteroids heading towards them which would make them even more dangerous and make the debris cloud last even longer.
Magistracy of Canopus Assaults
Magistracy of Canopus/Former Free Worlds League
9th July 3087
A Capellan Confederation sponsored assault by Magistracy of Canopus units launches an assault against the former Free Worlds League. Although Canopian leader Naomi Centrella ruled both the Capellan Confederation and Magistracy she had kept her nations administration separate. For this assault she had designated only units under Magistracy flag should be used. Supported by various mercenary units the Reventhir's Iron Hand Brigade launch an assault into independent worlds of the former Free Worlds League.
The independent worlds of the broken House of Marik had little more than a Mech company a piece protecting them. Between the four Reventhir's Brigade push through the independent worlds taking Deschanes, Kanata, Cap Rouge, Meadowvale, Granera, Walemael, Scheuerheck, Elleusis, Vekarel, Umika and Gouderak over the course of the three week invasion. None of the fractured Free Worlds factions react to the Magistracy offensive instead leaving Naomi Centrella's forces to extend her area of influence.
Landing Port
Zurich, Acamar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
17th July 3087
With his assignment to the Raven Alliance over Prince Burton Davion returned to active duty with the AFFS however with the Draconis Combine conflict over it would be garrison duty for now. Burton returned to the First Davion Guards RCT he was assigned to the First Federated Suns Lancers RCT assigned to garrisoning Zurich.
He walked off the Union-class DropShip under the blazing sun he had orders to report to Marshal Dixon Zibler in the morning however today all he had to do was get to barracks and relax. His bodyguard protection detail allowed him space but they were on high alert Zurich was on the Capellan border assassinating the First Prince's son would be a massive strike for the Confederation.
Assassination was the last thing on Burton's mind however as he walked from the DropShip he saw a young woman with medium length brown hair tied back in a pony tail, her AFFS uniform displaying the rank insignia of Leftenant. She snapped to a salute as he approached which caused Burton's smile to grow as he returned it “Leftenant Achernar, what a nice surprise.†He said
“It's nice to see you too sir, welcome to Zurich.â€
“Thank you looks nice, all quiet?â€
“Yes sir, nothing happening at all, at least not as long as I've been on planet.â€
“Visiting or assigned?â€
“Visiting sir, we're on planet delivering supplies for the Lancers, then back to Kathil for me, part of the rotation. Next time I'm hoping for something with a little more fun.â€
“There could be plenty fun Leftenant, you just need look for it.â€
“And where would I look, sir†she said reminding him that they were both active officers in the AFFS although not part of the same unit and so it wouldn't be against regulations finding spare time for fun together could be difficult.
“I don't officially start duty with the Lancers until the morning...†he said “which means I have the rest of the night, I think we have plenty fun the last time we were together Quiaff?†He asked “didn't we?†He said trying to cover his use of the Clan interrogative again, spending so much time with the Ravens had certainly coloured his speech.
“Aff†she said mockingly “perhaps during which time you could explain to me what you and a certain Clanner have been up to?†She snapped spinning on her heels marching off.
“What do you mean Pamela? I was just keeping up diplomatic relations?†Burton said chasing after her “she was my contact with the Ravens.â€
“I'm sure you two had plenty of contact, at least that's what the rumour mill says.†She said stopping Burton dropped his bag to the ground behind her.
“Pamela, listen there isn't anything going on with me and a Clansmen, there couldn't be she lives in a different world from me.†He said it wasn't a lie he and Sterling McKenna had done nothing that either should be ashamed of or want to hide however there was some sort of spark there which he couldn't deny existed.
“Well then My Prince†she said returning to a more friendly tone using her nickname of Burton from their previous encounter on Tikonov “you're buying dinner†she said winking walking off Burton smiled perhaps garrison duty wouldn't be boring after all. He may not know how things could advance with Sterling but Pamela certainly was worth chasing.
Star Adder Offensive
Prori, “Burrock†Territory
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
22nd July 3087
With the normal Jump Points inaccessible due to asteroid debris the Star Adders were restricted to three pirate points one of which had an extremely limited window of use due to the orbit of the third world of the system. Instead of taking the risky option or use both jump points the Star Adders chose to instead use a single pirate point, the one closest to Priori. The Absolute Truth accompanied by the Are's Might, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, and the Perth, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, entered the system escorting the five clusters of Kappa Galaxy.
The “Burrock†defenders were ready for them, knowing the Star Adders could not use the primary points and one of the jump points was a risky option the defenders had split with the Damien's Disciple, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, and Ingrid Bacharev, a Mako-class Corvette, defending one pirate point while the Hetherington, a Riga-class Destroyer, and the Admiral Russell Nga, a Kigamure-class Pursuit Cruiser, at the other. The Prinz Eugen continued to defend Priori's orbital perimetre.
The Star Adder force jumped in on top of the Hetherington and the Admiral Russel Nga engaging them immediately, between the WarShip's capital fire the DropShips carrying Kappa Galaxy dodged out of the way making a high-g run towards the planet. The Star Adders went to work on the ground as soon as they landed however the warriors of Kappa Galaxy were in for a horrible shock six combined-arms Clusters of Burrock loyal troops supported by unknown designs of BattleMech and ProtoMech forces organized in ways totally alien to the Star Adders.
By the time the Star Adder WarShips had overwhelmed and destroyed the Hetherington and Admiral Russel Nga the WarShip Perth was destroyed as was all of Kappa Galaxy on the ground, two Clusters of Burrocks were dead on the ground but they still held the world in defiance of the Clans. With the other Burrock WarShips including the Prinz Eugen approaching the two remaining Star Adder WarShips were yet again forced to retreat from the Priori system. Losing another WarShip and another Galaxy of ground forces had reduced the Star Adder Touman to less than half its total strength of ten years before.
Insurgent Suppression
Denizli, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
25th July 3087
“This is Galaxy Commander Lizabet Danford of the Jade Falcon Rho Galaxy members of this world have plotted against our Clan, your protectors.†The world's new garrison commander announced “as a result I have seized control over the DropShip port and placed a WarShip in orbit. Each member of this world will report to the spaceport within the next week for a full blood screening to confirm your identity, once this has been done you will relocate to a safe zone for a duration of these troubles. Failure to do so will result in your immediate death.â€
For several months the Jade Falcon Watch had suspected betrayal from their own territory, for years they had tracked down rogue scientists in their own midst finally locating a nest of them on the world of Denizli, refusing to allow this to continue and refusing to eliminate the population wholesale they instead deployed Rho Provisional Galaxy to the world, the only unit capable and willing to accept such a task.
With its preponderance of armoured vehicles and Battle Armour Rho was perfectly equipped to deal with the population of the rebellious world. Immediately seizing the spaceport pacifying it ensuring they had a base to extend from the Jade Falcons systematically moved through the capital city broadcasting Lizabet Danford's message before returning to the spaceport.
For the following week civilians reported to the spaceport only to find that they were not only being screened by the Jade Falcons but also relocated. Herded onto DropShips the civilians were being removed from the planet as soon as they were cleared by the Jade Falcon warriors relocated to worlds that could use their skills to best effect abandoning all that they had known on Denzili.
After the week was over the Jade Falcons released the Eleventh Provisional Garrison Cluster made up of three Nova Binaries of Ironhold Fire Battle Armour and Sokar Urban Combat Units. These formations sole purpose was to round up the remaining civilians from throughout the capital – by force if necessary – and remove all infrastructure in their wake.
As the Jade Falcons moved building-to-building, street-to-street hundreds more civilians were found in hiding, as were the first signs of resistance. Initially this was made up of angry civilians who had seen other civilians “disappear†into the spaceport and never return. However on the fourth day of the forced clearance of the city a point of Ironhold Troopers were engaged by a group of unknown quad design ProtoMechs. Unprepared for the missile and physical attacks from the ProroMechs the Troopers were killed before the enemy disappeared into the half abandoned city.
With this confirmed hostile force Lizabet Danford ordered the Eleventh PGC to eliminate all encountered hostiles and any resisting civilians while the rest of Rho Galaxy began to fire their weapons into the buildings nearest the spaceport.
In a process that took a further three weeks Rho Galaxy began a systematic “scorched earth†policy burning down every building of the capital city after the Eleventh PGC had rounded up or eliminated the remaining population. The Jade Falcons encountered the unknown ProtoMech design three times each time taking losses but also learning more about how to fight these strange machines. Each time they disabled one of the ProtoMechs the unit's pointmates turned their guns on the disabled machine or it exploded eliminating all evidence to its origin.
By the end of August Denzili's capital city was in ruins costing the Falcons approximately a star's worth of warriors and the lives of nearly ten thousand “rebellious†civilians Galaxy Commander Lizabet Danford addressed the worlds remaining two cities. “All civilians loyal to Clan Jade Falcon are to report to the planetary spaceport by the end of September what has happened in the capital will be repeated.†She promised them all “we will protect Clan Jade Falcon and those loyal to the Clan by any means necessary.†For a month the Jade Falcons sat in the spaceport, two DropShips were shot down by the WarShip Sarna Mercer while thousands of civilian population flooded through the spaceport for screening and then deportation to other Jade Falcon worlds. In total three hundred “suspect†civilians had been rounded up and detained for further interrogation.
Into October and November the Jade Falcons pacified the remaining two cities of the world following the same process as the had with the Capital City eliminating clearing building-by-building, street-by-street rounding up the last stubborn civilians who refused to leave or eliminating those who tried to fight the Jade Falcon advance.
By the end of the year Denzili was effectively a dead world completely depopulated by the Jade Falcon actions. The after removing their nearly one thousand strong number of prisoners the last actions of Rho Galaxy was to sow the spaceport with fuel-air explosives detonating them as they left the planet. While Rho Galaxy left immediately the Sarna Mercer remained in the system well into 3088 eliminating a further two DropShips that attempted to land on the planet during that time, since no ground activity was detected the Jade Falcons did not know what these DropShips were attempting to recover or why they were trying to land. By mid 3088 no-one had even visited the system in months to ensure no-one visited the world unnoticed the Jade Falcons left five QR243 Satellites in the system at random locations their on board HPGs directed to activate if any activity was detected after the Sarna Mercer left the dead system.
From the prisoners taken on Denzili the Jade Falcons had the next piece in their puzzle to combat their growing insurgency problems with everything pointing to a world known only as Etienne’s Sanctuary as being the focus of actions against the Jade Falcons.
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Trouble with a CAPITAL T has happened. While the Star adders are not my favorite clan even they deserved better. Oh well what is done is done. The "Burrock" forces might of used old Star League Defense Force tactics but what they are using are called Trey and Sept. A Trey is an operational force consisting of three units. A Sept is two Trey's working under a Sept commander; this force of seven usually operates as an independent command much like a Clan Nova or a Watch Binary.
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Trouble with a CAPITAL T has happened. While the Star adders are not my favorite clan even they deserved better. Oh well what is done is done. The "Burrock" forces might of used old Star League Defense Force tactics but what they are using are called Trey and Sept. A Trey is an operational force consisting of three units. A Sept is two Trey's working under a Sept commander; this force of seven usually operates as an independent command much like a Clan Nova or a Watch Binary.
As surprising as this may sound I kind of like the Star Adders in some ways despite the way I've treated them so far in this story. Unfortunately Priori cut off from communications to begin with and then turned into a stronghold is a tough nut to crack costing the Star Adders a lot more than they expected. Unfortunately not the last the Clans will face...
Doesn't help the Steel Viper ilKhan is more interested in persecuting his own agenda against the Inner Sphere Clans.
The "Burrock" force on Priori are organized in two ways first the Burrocks themselves have six clusters of ground forces (largely as described in Reaving) while they are supported by three mixed Society Septs which themselves add quite a bit of firepower.
McCarron's Armoured Cavalry Base
Galatea, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
4th August 3087
Following their short term contract with Interstellar Expeditions the First McCarron's Regiment accepts a contract with the MRBC garrisoning the world of Galatea protecting the Bonding Commissions Hiring Halls. Colonel Elizabeth McCarron uses the time to re-establish the Second McCarron's Regiment splitting two Reinforced Battalions from the First McCarron's placing them under the direct command of Colonel Angel Bodez. It is a small gesture but it shows the Mercenary Command is rebuilding from the damage caused to it by the Capellan Confederation.
Raging Bears Revenge
Arcadia, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds
6th August 3087
Just beyond the orbit of Arcadia four Clan Ghost Bear JumpShips flashed into the system. The DropShips were ancient they had barely survived the trip the Ghost Bear techs and crews jury-rigging system after system to cover breakdowns now the Raging Bears could get the revenge they desired. The entire unit was full of surviving members of the Tseng Bloodline each suffering from increasing amounts of health issues and those warriors who were not far from forced retirement now they would all have a fighting death, within the units number were several former Free Rasalhague Republic warriors who had petitioned to join the Ghost Bears, although not the same calibre as Clan Trueborns the Tseng warriors had greatly accepted them.
While two Vanir and two Arcadia Assault DropShips launched attacks on the defending aerospace forces the remaining nine DropShips burned to the ground landing outside the Kito settlement. Stepping clear of the DropShip Loremaster Laurie Tseng coughed into a cloth hankie as she removed it was covered in blood. The Clan scientists had medication for the journey but they caused hallucinations and eye focus issues things that the Clan warriors would not accept. Now the warriors would have to accept their deteriorating physical condition, but only for a short time. Laurie raised a communicator to her mouth “this is Loremaster Laurie Tseng to the Clans of Arcadia, we belong to these grounds. You have wronged our Clan and we refuse to ignore your insults. Prepare for battle.†She stated on planet there were elements of Clans Steel Viper and Cloud Cobra. The Cobras had not caused the Ghost Bears direct harm but they had replaced Clan Steel Viper units throughout the Clan Homeworlds allowing the Vipers to increase their areas of influence which in the eyes of the Ghost Bears made them just as guilty.
“Loremaster Tseng, we have caused you no harm†Clan Cloud Cobra Star Colonel Olson Khatib commander of the 222nd Cobra Fang Cluster, the exact warrior Laurie expected to answer first.
“Your association with Clan Steel Viper makes you our enemy. If you stay out of our way the damage will be minimal.â€
“Do not threaten us Bear, we have agreements in place, perhaps a Trial to resolve this Grievance, Quiaff?†He asked the Cobra warrior not understanding the Bear grievance.
“Neg, the Steel Vipers have wronged my Clan it is time for them to pay.â€
“This is highly unClan-like Laurie Tseng.â€
“You forget Star Colonel, by order of ilKhan Andrews Clan Ghost Bear has been Abjured, we are no longer Clan in your eyes.†Laurie taunted Star Colonel Khatib
“Laurie Tseng, we are willing to give you the honour you require.â€
“Fine my opening bid for the Trial of Possession of Arcadia is five Cluster.†She said coughing into the hankie again “my final bid for Possession of this world is five Clusters. This is a trial of honour and death†she finished “Seyla.†Quickly Loremaster Tseng changed the communications frequency “all Clusters begin assaults.†She ordered turning behind her stood her ninety-five Executioner OmniMech. “One final time my friend.â€
Climbing aboard the OmniMech she looked at her Mech's sensors already red markers were appearing representing Clans Steel Viper and Cloud Cobra. The closest groups would be leaving their bases in Kito. Laurie had briefed her warriors on a simple plan. The entire Ghost Bear force would secure Kito then they would split a single Cluster to each of Toomin, Cyaegha and Nyogtha while the remaining two Clusters traveled across the continent to Rivera.
Powering her Executioner Laurie joined the forces heading to Kito slightly north of the landing zone as they moved forward elements of the Steel Viper's First Fang Cluster of Zeta Galaxy approached. The Fang Cluster was bit a front line unit but like most in the Viper Touman they were well equipped with heavy BattleMechs making up the majority of their firepower. Almost immediately Laurie sighted a Matador Heavy BattleMech, the sixty ton Mech was a common Steel Viper garrison design. Almost everything on the Matador was medium ranged and the Mech was slower than Laurie's Executioner charging forward closing the range quickly, the Matador opened fire with lasers and missiles peppering the Executioner's armour however Laurie ignored the damage instead raising her Mech's Autocannon and Heavy Laser. The autocannon shells tore into the heavy BattleMech tearing through the arm and torso armour shattering the missile launcher housed in the torso, the opal coloured heavy laser tore through the leg armour immediately exposing the structure. Immediately afterwards Laurie cut in her Mech's Extended Range Medium Lasers the blue beams cut into the smaller Mech's arm severing the lower half of the arm.
The Steel Viper pilot fought to control their Mech but the amount of damage and the loss of the arm caused the pilot to lose control of the Mech staggering forwards to the ground. Taking several steps further forwards twisting the Executioner's torso she blasted another opal laser into the downed Matador's cockpit burning through the armour and the pilot.
Twisting again she noticed several Vipers were already down as were a few Ghost Bears. She noticed the Rasalhague natives in their Karhu Heavy OmniMech taking advantage of their Mech's physical weapons slicing through the Steel Viper BattleMechs causing tremendous damage. Laurie herself hated physical combat but the old Rasalhague Warriors loved it and she knew that the physical attacks would infuriate the Vipers even more. Moving forwards Laurie twister her Executioner's torso again this time targeting an ancient Crossbow OmniMech. One of the first OmniMechs ever built the heavy design only had a pair of Long Range Missile launchers triggering her autocannon the burst tore through the OmniMech's armour breaking through the armour causing internal damage on the Steel Viper Mech. Watching her Mech's she cut in with both medium lasers burning away more of the Crossbow's armour, the Steel Viper Mech returned fire with two flights of Long Range Missiles peppering Laurie's OmniMech with missiles she continued to ignore the damage instead ignoring the heat she blasted with her heavy laser tearing into the Crossbow's chest. This Viper was a better pilot than the last the Crossbow stood up throwing more of the LRMs into her Executioner the flamer mounted in Laurie's Mech's Torso winked out inactive damaged by weapons fire Laurie almost laughed the flamer was nearly totally useless in this fight.
A Timber Wolf stalked up alongside Laurie's Mech covering the Crossbow in Long Range Missile fire, normally Laurie Tseng would be annoyed with another warrior butting into her battle but today she didn't care she'd ordered her warriors to ignore Zellbrigen, the hardest thing she had ever ordered any of her warriors to do, that released the Rasalhague born warriors to make their physical attacks and allowed other MechWarriors to break normal dueling rules.
Across the field of battle Ghost Bears were falling most with catastrophic damage, even Mechs that were taking normally disabling damage or at least enough damage to retreat were still fighting sometimes from where they fell. The Ghost Bears were far more driven than the remaining Fang Cluster warriors and Kito was clearly in sight. “Ghost Bears secure the City, the population are not our enemies only cause damage to those who are threats to us.†Laurie ordered on an open channel making sure that the Bears and everyone else knew the Bears were here to hurt their enemies not the people.
Raging Bears Revenge
Arcadia, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds
8th August 3087
After securing Kito the Ghost Bear warriors had struck our from the city moving towards the four surrounding cities increasing the amount of casualties the units were taking but also causing heavier damage to the remaining three Steel Viper Garrison Clusters. The Cloud Cobras had so far stayed out of the Ghost Bears way but perhaps in the most annoying way possibly they had declared a Trial of Possession over the enclaves at Korban and Garrak releasing the Steel Viper's Tenth Fang Cluster from garrison of those settlements fortunately the Cluster hadn't arrived yet giving the Bears free rein.
Loremaster Laurie Tseng's own Tseng Keshik and the Omega Galaxy Command Trinary had gotten back aboard their DropShip “hopping†across the continent from Kito to Rivera where they encountered the Thirty-third Phalanx Cluster the elite Ghost Bear warriors easily over came the defenders of Rivera which had mostly hovercraft, conventional infantry and light garrison Mechs clearing the Rivera Garrison with nearly no casualties Laurie Tseng's unit moved back to Toomin meeting with the remaining Ghost Bear forces.
The Tenth Fang Cluster had landed in Kito using the landing facilities there Star Colonel Jeremy Hoskins commanding the Tenth Fang was nowhere more better armed than the Ghost Bears previous foes however they were fresh units while the Ghost Bears had been fighting for two days straight their warriors suffering from increasing physical problems from their deteriorating conditions while their equipment was as jury-rigged as the JumpShips that had transported them there. “Loremaster Laurie Tseng, your people have done wonders you have destroyed the Zeta Galaxy of Clan Steel Viper however I offer you Hegira, an honourable retreat, your Bears have left these worlds allow their people to remember them in victory and as warriors who chose to return to the Inner Sphere to claim their rightful position in leading humanity to a new Golden-era.â€
“Star Colonel Jeremy Hoskins, I thank you for your offer.†Laurie replied “ you are correct the Ghost Bears have taken the ultimate step beyond the Homeworlds however we do not forget those we left behind. There is no future for us after this world. We will see you on the field of battle.†Laurie promised, this would be her last battle she knew not because her OmniMech was at its end but that she was. Even with the drugs she and others were continuing to take they could not go on forever. The Rasalhague warriors that had joined them for this mission were the main force driving Omega Galaxy now. Laurie thought it was quite amusing the warriors that had once been her enemies and conquered by the Bears were now their salvation.
She assembled the warriors around they numbered just over six Trinaries in number, just larger than the strongest of the Clusters formed by the Clans. “Omega Galaxy†she addressed them “we have shown the Clans they can treat us as Dezgra and that we are a match for anything they claim can defend these worlds. We have shown that we are more than just Clan Ghost Bear, we are the Rasalhague Dominion, together we are stronger. Our Clan's founders Sandra Tseng and Hans Jorgensson would be proud of what we have accomplished, it has been an honour fighting with you, final assignments have been decided†she said quietly within another word.
“Seyla†they all returned for a moment the remaining Ghost Bears stood silent before breaking up.
The battle-plan was simple the remaining Rasalhague warriors in their Karhu OmniMechs and Bruin Assault Mechs would hold the centre, those pilots were in better condition for longer combat. Keeping them together would give the warriors a better chance at having a longer fight, none expected to escape this world their JumpShips had long ago escaped after being threatened by the Steel Viper aerospace forces. The rest of the Bear force would charge from the flanks, anyone who survived this battle would be in a position to engage the Cloud Cobras however Laurie Tseng doubted anyone would survive.
As it turned out the Ghost Bear Loremaster's prediction was hardly wrong. The Cloud Cobras had not only taken up the Steel Viper's garrison at Korban but they had also traded much of their front-line OmniMech forces to the instead of second-line designs they were facing OmniMechs such as the Linebacker, Ebon Jaguar, Night Gyr and Summoner. Even the elite Ghost Bears could not match the overwhelming firepower brought by the Steel Vipers. As Laurie Tseng's autocannon ran dry she realized her end was near, continuing to fight with her lasers she charged forward swinging her Mech's autocannon arm burying it in an Ebon Jaguar's low slung cockpit killing the warrior ruining the cannon. It was a move a year ago she would never have considered but not today it felt like the right thing. Beside her two Karhus were dismantling a Linebacker with a series of devastating physical attacks however the Bears were surrounded no sooner had the Linebacker fallen both Karhus came under heavy fire falling to the ground under the guns of three Steel Viper Mechs. Turning into an entire Star of Steel Viper OmniMechs Laurie Tseng didn't fire instead she closed her eyes.
Particle cannons, lasers, missiles and autocannons tore into the Executioner, the ninety-five ton OmniMech fought to stay on its feet but it was only time before something gave. Eventually its armour gone a missile strike penetrated the cockpit exploding against the cockpit's structure, a support gave way cutting through Laurie Tseng's shoulder at nearly the same time an autocannon blast cored the Mech's chest breaching the fusion engine's shielding. Fire blossomed around Laurie's Mech consuming the machine and the Loremaster in fire ending the Ghost Bear resistance on Arcadia. In all they had decimated four Clusters of Steel Vipers, although the Clan would probably be able to salvage at least two Clusters over time. For the Ghost Bears declared Abjured by the Steel Viper's ilKhan they had their revenge and the Tseng Bloodline was able to go out as it had been created in fire fighting until its last breath.
Royal Gathering
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
19th August 3087
It was something that Vincent Kurita would likely never get used to, being the leader of the Draconis Combine he was expected to lead his nation both socially and militarily. In an effort to help him in such matters Warlord Minoru Kurita had arranged for such a social gathering to take place on New Samarkand. Business leaders from across the Draconis Combine and beyond had traveled to the Combine capital to meet with Vincent in a quest to carry the favour of the Coordinator. Minoru had said he should not agree to anything tonight, he should be open in meeting with them and keep conversations as light as possible. He could dance with anyone he wished to but that he shouldn't single anyone out for priority, which was fine with Vincent as he still had hopes of something with Tami Moto, unfortunately she was on assignment with her Regiment and it wouldn't do for the Coordinator to be seen with a simple MechWarrior, even one who had saved his life. As a result of Vincent's uninterest in the women present he had been largely isolated as the gathering continued around them.
His uncle Minoru approached with an old man, another corporation Minoru no doubt thought would be good to introduce to him, “Coordinator, allow me to introduce Marquis Charles Sadafuji of New Samarkand Metals†Minoru said as they approached.
“Delighted to meet you, our people and our nation than you and your company for their efforts.†Vincent said formally.
“I thank you sire†Sadafuji said formally bowing heavily Vincent returned the bow but to a lesser degree than Sadafuji as was tradition, the Coordinator never bowed further than anyone else.
“Coordinator, allow me to also introduce the Marquis daughter Miss Marley Sadafuji†Minoru continued introducing a beautiful young woman, she would have been younger than him by perhaps two or three years by Sadafuji's advanced age Vincent assumed that she would likely be his youngest child. She was beautiful, there was no denying it she had only light oriental influences on her features a very slight figure and beautiful piercing blue eyes.
“I am honoured†Vincent replied formally she like her father bowed heavily before the two moved on leaving Minoru with his nephew.
“A beautiful young woman no?†He queried
“Very beautiful†Vincent admitted, no-one else would talk to him in such a way but Minoru was more than an uncle, since his father's passing he had been almost a second father.
“Perhaps you could dance with her.â€
“Perhaps I could, uncle†Vincent again admitted
“She is single I believe.†Minoru continued to push
“Warlord†Vincent said more formally “I will choose my own future.â€
“I never said any differently†Minoru said bowing slightly in apology “however the Combine will expect an heir, sooner rather than later and you not even taking interest in a mate is seen as worrying.â€
“I have someone in mind.â€
“You cannot be serious...†Minoru said almost immediately he knew exactly who Vincent spoke of.
“Why not your own mother, my grandmother, was an officer of the DCMS!†Vincent snapped in reply Tomoe Sakade was once Theodore Kurita's lancemate eventually ascending to a Battalion command before her death along with Theodore and his father during the Clan Invasion and the Combine defeat at the First Battle of Luthien.
“She was a special case, for a different time, she was my father's equal in combat you cannot say the same for this woman!†Minoru snapped angered at Vincent's logic.
“How can you say that Uncle?†She saved my life from the Black Dragons, I helped her recover her skill as a MechWarrior, and even now she stands as a member of the DCMS doing her duty while you and I are here socializing.â€
“We are doing our duty as she is doing her duty.†Minoru said simply
“Well perhaps her duty needs to change.†Vincent said walking away from his uncle his “leader's face†firmly back in place as he greeted leaders of the Combine's industry.
“Yes, perhaps she needs to be reassigned.†Minoru said watching his nephew and leader. He had promised from the moment he served as Warlord of the Draconis Combine that the next Coordinator would be a strong one. He would not allow Vincent to weaken his position by a wasteful chase of a common MechWarrior.
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It looks like the Ghost bears were attacked by "The UNSEEN ENEMY". Uh-Oh CAPITAL T TROUBLE IS HERE and in the Inner Sphere. If Dragon Cat is using the forces I believe he is Wow. Starting from the lightest of Mech Forces first at 25 tons is the Cephalus which when first introduced is an unarmed light scout with extraordinary advantages from the systems installed in it. The first is the Chameleon Light Polarization Shield and Null-Signature System then with the permanently installed Nova CEWS it is very well protected. Weaponless at first but later given five different alternate configurations became extremely lethal. Next is the 55 ton Septicemia which in it's primary configuration carried energy weapons a targeting computer and a Nova CEWS. Later given 13 different configurations proved to be an versatile weapon. The final Mech was the 85 ton Osteon which also was equipped with a Nova CEWS andwas utilized as a iATM carrier and also had 8 leathal configurations.
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Throne Room
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
1st September 3087
Warlord Minoru Kurita had been planning on leaving New Samarkand to return to his position as Warlord of the Pesht Military District however the Coordinator had requested an audience and Vincent could not turn down his leader. Unfortunately he knew exactly what this was about and he knew that Vincent Kurita would not be happy with him.
Marching into the Throne Room he stood to full attention of the Coordinator who just looked at him. For several moments the younger man stared at Minoru who felt almost amused by the position they were in he had sat where Vincent had, he had stared at men in the same way with similar levels of anger, and he had asked men in his position to commit ritual suicide to make up for their mistakes. Minoru however had not made any mistakes and would stand by his position, Vincent would have to have him assassinated to remove him and even then his actions could not be reversed.
“Warlord, honest is important is it not?â€
“Yes, sire†Minoru answered
“Then you will be honest with me.â€
“I am always honest with you sire.â€
“Then you will be honest with me. Where is Tami Moto? Even her unit commander does not know where she is. At this rate she will be rated as AWOL from a DCMS unit, a charge that carries the death penalty. You may not approve of her Warlord but please tell me you have not taken extreme action?†Vincent said almost begging Minoru for the right answer.
“Coordinator, I have not eliminated Tami Moto, her unit commander will receive her new assignment orders within the next twenty-four hours. She will not be marked as AWOL not marked for death, though her new assignment could cause her so in Duty to the Dragon.â€
“Warlord, I am the Dragon†he said using the Coordinator's ceremonial title “tell me where she is.â€
“I have inducted her into the Internal Security Force and one of the Draconis Elite Strike Teams†Minoru said quietly, “if she survives the training perhaps she is worthy of your hand.â€
“The DEST are a voluntary recruitmentâ€
“Yes, she volunteered†Minoru said “listen Vincent what you said about my mother was correct she was only an officer of the DCMS, but she was also a member of the Order of the Five Pillars and she died fighting with my father. Tami Moto may be worthy of you Vincent, and if she is I would give you all my support in the matter. But first she will prove her abilities...â€
“She already has proven her abilities!â€
“She will prove them to me.†Minoru said quietly keeping his calm despite Vincent's mood “I am responsible to and for you nephew, we must prove this common MechWarrior is worthy of you for the sake of the people and of our people.â€
“You could have warned me.â€
“No, I could not to have warned you as you would have warned her and that is not good enough. A true operative of the DEST will adapt to her surroundings whatever the circumstances.â€
“Where is she being trained?â€
“That is information I cannot divulge as I do not know.†Minoru said Vincent glanced away from his uncle still angered but beginning to understand Minoru's motivations “have belief in her and she will prove your choice correct.â€
“I do have belief in her Minoru, and my choice will prove you wrong.†Vincent said looking back towards Minoru “have a safe trip back to Pesht uncle.â€
Clan Offensive
Priori, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
4th September 3087
With all their own WarShips badly damaged or needed elsewhere and the month exclusive rights to the system over Clan Star Adder contract Clan Cloud Cobra to assist them within the Priori system. Initially the Cloud Cobras assign five WarShips and an entire Galaxy to assist the Star Adders with the intent at eliminating all “Burrock†and Dark Caste Forces operating from Priori.
The WarShips Second Coming, a McKenna-class Battleship, led the way escorted by the Hertzog's Staff and the Trump, two Vincent Mk42-class Corvettes, and the Inquisitor, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser jumped into the Priori system. Together with the Cobras First and Sixth Coil Clusters together with the Eighty-fourth and Eighty-fifth Fang Clusters and the five Clusters of the Star Adder's Alpha Galaxy as the Clan took the Burrock threat completely serious.
The Clan fleet jumped into the Priori system at the same pirate point used previously. The Burrock aligned WarShips Damien's Disciple and Ingrid Bacharev were both close to the jump point. As the WarShips engaged each other the ground DropShips attempted to feed there way through the naval melee. Surrounded by aerospace dogfights both the Damien's Disciple and Ingrid Bacharev were destroyed however before they were sunk by the Cloud Cobras both the Trump and Inquisitor were destroyed in battle.
As the ground forces approached the planet the Prinz Eugen appeared from behind the planet. Unwilling to engage the rogue Battleship without support the ground forces headed straight to the surface allowing the remaining two Burrock WarShips to deal with the Prinz Eugen. As the Second Coming and Hertzog's Staff moved away from the pirate point towards Priori two further WarShips entered the system the Beijing, a Samarkand Mark I-class Carrier, and the Quicksilver Mongoose, a Dui Shi Wang-class Battleship, both vessels launched began to follow the Cloud Cobra vessels towards the planet as the Prinz Eugen moved towards them from the opposite direction.
On the ground the Star Adder/Cloud Cobra forces created a beachhead for further ground forces holding their ground however the Clan force was unable to leave their landing zones as they were continuously hounded by the Burrock ground forces who were using tactics and designs that were totally alien to the Clansmen.
Fourth Naval Battle
Priori System, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
8th September 3087
The newly arrived WarShips added a new element to the battle of the Priori system. The two remaining Cloud Cobra vessels intended on eliminating the Prinz Eugen first, charging forwards they moved to engage the Texas-class Battleship which was still moving away from the planet.
Instead of engaging the Cloud Cobras directly the Prinz Eugen turned away from Priori turning in system. The Second Coming and Hertzog's Staff continued to move towards Priori establishing orbits around the world and providing their ground forces with air superiority allowing the Cloud Cobras to strike out of their beachheads. This move although is helpful on the ground it also allows the Prinz Eugen to join forces with the Beijing and Quicksilver Mongoose.
As the Quicksilver Mongoose charges in towards the Second Coming the Beijing holds back providing aerospace fighter strike craft which target the Hertzog's Staff the small corvette is overwhelmed by the small aerospace fighters. The distracted Second Coming trying to deal with the Quicksilver Mongoose's charge misses the Prinz Eugen's movement into the McKenna's rear arc, from the Prinz Eugen small craft carrying marines landed on the Second Coming beginning a battle aboard the Cloud Cobra vessel.
As the Hertzog's Staff exploded in space marines battled through the Second Coming and the battleship's guns fell silent. After six hours the Second Coming is officially added to the Burrock fleet, instead of cutting the Burrock's power the assault and the arrival of the Quicksilver Mongoose and Beijing in fact increases it. Fortunately for the Star Adder and Cloud Cobra ground forces the Burrocks refuse to use orbital bombardment.
Border Raid
Zurich, Acamar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th September 3087
Alarms sounded throughout the base on Zurich as Burton Davion marched into the command complex of Marshal Dixon Zibler immediately he saluted the Marshal and his staff “sir, you requested to see me?â€
“Yes Prince Davion, we have a message from our visitors and I believe it is for you.â€
“...Our message goes to the child of the Napoleon Prince†the voice said Burton snorted he'd heard all the jokes about his father before, many of them from his father himself. “you are the continuation a problem started by the Fox, and you will fail. Peace of Blake be with you†the voice cut off.
“Nice and original, sir, a rogue element of ComStar?†The Prince wondered out loud “I will be ready when the RCT is.†Burton said confidently.
“We're unsure who they are, I'm sure you will be ready Prince Davion and I will not be keeping you from your duty.†Zibler said confidently. Burton saluted and left the command room “and we will do ours.†He said turning to his staff “have the Armoured Cavalry and the Kestrel Grenadiers cut them off, the Prince will stand on the line with the rest of us but we should not need to fire a shot.â€
“I don't think he will be happy to accept that.†Major Mark Shaw pointed out.
“Burton will see combat but he will see combat on our terms, that's our job especially we are sitting at home, these people need to learn that this is the Federated Suns and to attack the Lancers at home is bad idea.†Several hours later the enemy force arrived on planet despite all the work of the DMI agents assigned to the Federated Suns Lancers and Burton Davion's protection detail couldn't find the identity to the enemy unit only that it was at least reinforced battalion in strength.
The enemy forces fought hard as soon as they landed both the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry and the First Kestrel Grenadiers LCTs approached attempting to flank the enemy's Landing Zone. The first indication of how the raiders plan to fight is when their three DropShips, one Overlord supported by two Mule-class cargo ships all explode showering the area with smoke and fire confusing the two Davion commands. The raiders push through them using Mechs that none of the AFFS troops have ever seen, their angular armour, powerful weapons and coordination is too strong. Instead of finishing off the two wounded commands the unit pushes through heading directly for the First Federated Suns Lancers RCT.
The Lancers, formerly known as the First FedCom Guards RCT, had always fielded a large amount of assault machines giving it a massive amount of slow weapons. Although nowhere in the region as heavy as the Davion Assault Guards today the Lancers massed firepower would prove the turning point. Unfortunately for the raiders they did not know where in the force Burton Davion's Templar OmniMech was, and the Lancers had five of them in their TO&E. Showing their intent the enemy command split into three reinforced company sized units each holding about eighteen elements ranging from Mechs to armour and Battle Armour forces. Many of the designs were ancient Star League Defence Force designs however within their number the vast majority of the Mech forces were of a completely unknown design with strangely angled armour and horrifying visual looks.
“This is Marshal Dixon Zibler of the First Federated Suns Lancers RCT stand down and surrender.†Zibler ordered over the comm. Sitting on the right flank Burton Davion sat nervously waiting for the order to fire. He had fought the Combine with the Snow Ravens but they were a known force and capabilities, this enemy looked far more capable. The enemy did not reply with words instead the air was filled with fire. “Zibler to all commands fire at will, I repeat fire!†He ordered. The Lancers were not set up in any fancy way instead if you looked at them from above they were arranged in a crescent formation with Mech Companies forming the first line supported by armour while the infantry and Battle Armour covered their rear. As the enemy force moved in they entered the crescent's kill zone and were cut by weapons fire from three different angles.
Burton Davion fired as soon as Dixon Zibler gave the order triggering his Particle cannon into a humanoid enemy Mech that looked like it may have been in the heavy range moments laser he fired his Mech's three Rotary autocannons as well peppering the enemy Mech with fire. His enemy's armour held as the Mech jumped into the air Burton fired his particle cannon again missing by mere metres. The enemey Mech returned fire mid jump with their own particle cannon rearing into the Templar's shoulder armour. Burton ignored the damage as the armour held blasting the enemy Mech wth the autocannons. The three streams of fire caught the enemy in a hair of fire putting off their laser shot.
“Prince, pull back, we have them.†One of his lancemates called out, the plan was simple Zibler had thought the Templars were targets so each was out front in their companies Burton included. As the enemy approached the Templars would fall back into their companies drawing the enemy closer in at that point the armour would rush forward like hammers combining their fire with the Mech Companies showing the enemy what massed combined-arms fire could do. Burton acknowledged the call moving his Templar in reverse he continued to fire the autocannons intent on gaining at least one kill. As he pulled back however the rest of the companies fire converged on the enemy Mechs turning it into little more than a slaughter. Burton added his fire to a couple more kills claiming at least three assists but claimed no kill for his own, his company claimed twenty-one kills in total assisting with the middle element of the enemy force as the crescent formation turned in on the enemy completely enveloping them.
During the battle Burton saw SLDF, Liao, Kurita and even Steiner colour schemes on enemy Mechs however there was one thing in common with each an upside down red triangle with a lion's head central and the number “46†below it. He didn't know the insignia but that over all the paint schemes meant a lot more. After the battle Burton made sure that his gun camera footage was sent to the DMI agents for further analysis. Unfortunately the Kestrel Grenadiers had taken too much of a pounding to continue on as an independent formation both LCT Commanding Officer and Executive Officer had been killed by the DropShip explosion and the rest had folded under the enemy fire. By order of Marshal Zibler the Kestrel Grenadiers survivors were folded into the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry and under both Zibler and Burton's suggestion it was confirmed three weeks later that the Armoured Cavalry would be returned to RCT formation levels by the end of the year.
Although Burton likes the idea of the LCTs for regional Militia March Lord commands and lesser AFFS Brigades such as the Deneb Light Cavalry or the New Ivaarsen Chasseurs he believes that independent regiments like the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry and First Federated Suns Lancers which were both trusted with independent action and raids as well as being badged with the Federated Suns insignia should be maintained at RCT levels of strength to allow them to operate alone if necessary with enough firepower to get a job done. With that in mind Burton writes his father a letter suggesting that both commands are maintained and the reasons why, although Burton is only a Captain and his father Victor Steiner-Davion is still going strong at the head of the Federated Suns the young heir is beginning to ready himself for a leadership position in the Federated Suns.
INN Headquarters
Geneva, European Continent
Terra, Star League Protectorate
18th September 3087
The lights came up as the Department of Communications based on Terra began to run two programs via the HPG network constantly. For the last ten years the SLDF authorities running the Protectorate had put significant resources into HPG construction building no less than two HPGs per Protectorate world. With these resources in place the Department of Communications was able to run two programs from the INN Studies in Geneva on Terra. The first was the flagship channel the Interstellar News Network, bringing citizens up to date with continuous news updates broadcast to all the Protectorate worlds and beyond.
The second show however was far more controversial as the lights came up on its first broadcast show it revealed a man in his late twenties wearing a black suit and a white shirt. “Good Morning ladies and gentlemen, my name is Duncan Kennedy and I would like to welcome you to the True Words of Jerome Blake.†He said pressing a concealed button on the desk in front of him the screen beside him displayed a man in his thirties with a pair of dark rimmed glasses, a dark hair and a curly beard “this is Jerome Blake, many call him a visionary but a deeper analysis proves that he was a flesh and blood man who helped the SLDF maintain the communications grid during the Amaris Coup, a friend of General Aleksandr Kerensky and a man who believed the tenants of honour despite the horrors he had seen. He was also a man who venomously disagreed with General Kerensky's plan to take the SLDF fleet away from the Inner Sphere and a man who spent the later years of his life turning the Department of Communications into ComStar and from a service into a business.†He said describing the founder of what was for centuries the defender of Terra and the sole provider of FTL communications in the Inner Sphere. “It was Blake's writings that would set ComStar on the road from a service to the people to profit however it was also his writings twisted by his successors that would lead to ComStar to the path of destruction. So join me Duncan Kennedy as we explore Jerome Blake's life, his writings and the path taken by the organization he helped create.â€
Overall the response to INN being broadcast continuously was positive having current events from throughout the Star League Protectorate and beyond being updated far more regularly made the worlds feel closer than previously and promoted a sense of security even further afield such as Valerius in the Marian Hegemony and New Olympica received at least two updates a week. The reaction to The True Words of Jerome Blake is mixed to say the least recent declassified documents had shown that ComStar and later the Word of Blake had not been just the guardians of technology in the Inner Sphere but that they had also tried to hold the Inner Sphere from blocking funding and communications vital to research to covert strike operations against the Inner Sphere nations. To the people of Terra the Words of Jerome Blake and his followers had protected them from the hardship of the Succession Wars and forever they would be grateful but as the Star League continued to open up the long abandoned Unity City and restore Terra fully they were also seeing how much the Order had held back Terra from their true potential. In other areas people are furious seeing the show as a defilement of the Word of Blake.
Starliner One
Arc Royal, Arc-Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
21st September 3087
The civilian liner Starliner One arrives at Arc-Royal Lyran headquarters for the Arc-Royal Theatre, home to Clan Wolf (in-Exile) and the legendary Kell Hounds Mercenary Regiment. During a scheduled stop the Starliner One is escorted to the planet by Clan Wolf (in-Exile) flagship the Werewolf, a McKenna-class Battleship. While on Arc-Royal passengers were invited to the Mercenary Training Grounds run by the Kell Hounds and were treated to views of Wolf City, the capital enclave of Clan Wolf (in-Exile). Throughout the visit passengers are shadowed by Kell Hound security ensuring no-one ventures into areas they shouldn't be in.
SelaSys Incorporated Shipyards
Loyalty, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
25th September 3087
Within the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Clan Sea Fox makes a deal within SelaSys Incorporated to repair damage done to the shipyards by Regulan raids. At the same time they Sea Fox Clan agree to assist with the construction of a new construction dock within the Loyalty yards. In exchange Clan Sea Fox win one hundred years worth of access to the shipyards for repairs to their JumpShips and WarShips they also gain access to the Britannic-class Heavy Transport craft which they send the schematics to their Periphery shipyards.
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RFS Clipperton (Regulus-class Frigate)
Albert Falls, Independent System
Former-Free Worlds League
8th October 3087
The RFS Clipperton had taken a slow burn into the Albert Falls system broadcasting the vessels intent on landing administrators on the world to help the population's transition from vulnerable independent world to the “family†that was the Regulan Feifs. Sensors had identified lots of traffic between the planet's surface and the orbiting moon however there was evidence of a large mining facility there which could only benefit the Regulan Feifs. As they passed the moon the Clipperton's powerful sensors scanned the facility which appeared to be mining heavy metals, two Mule-class DropShips were nearby no doubt to carry the mined ore to the planet's surface but there was nothing to pose a threat to the Regulus-class Frigate. Easing into orbit Captain Howard Anderson spoke into the comms speaker. “This is Captain Howard Anderson of the Regulan Fiefs we await your response to our message.†He said, there was no need to repeat a message instead he expected an immediate surrender instead he was in for a surprise.
“Captain Anderson this is Prime Minister Neil Buchanan we must decline your request. Out nation does not completely agree with what your Fiefs stand for, we were dedicated a united Free Worlds League and that is where our dedication remains.†The message read
“Shall I repeat it sir?†The communications officer asked
“Negative, weapon officer can you track the source of that communication?â€
“Yes sir.â€
“Good†he said flicking the communication switch “Prime Minister, you will comply with our request or we will fire on your position.â€
“If that is the course you will take we will open fire.â€
“Captain, that is already your desire, if you make any move to attack us we will resist.â€
“Helm orientate our bow over the source of that signal, weapons target Mass Driver Prepare Killer Whale Missile.†He said moments later the main engines fired beginning to turn the Clipperton towards the ground.
“Sir!†The sensor operator called out “we have a large group of fighters raising from the ground and a group of small craft accompanied by two Mule type DropShips from the moon.â€
“An interesting way to invite suicide†Anderson muttered “continue deployment, launch DropShips and small craft have our marines attempt to board those Mules, we could always use their resources. Switch capital lasers to anti-fighter mode, Barracudas to defence.†He ordered the Regulus-class Frigate carried one-hundred-and-twenty battle armoured marines which formed a potent force of their own if the small craft could get close enough they could potentially capture the vessels.
As the Regulus continued to move two Leopard CV-class DropShips launched from its belly deploying a squadron of aerospace fighters against them not much of a defence force as nearly two wings continued to raise from the ground, the locals had prepared for this assault. All around the WarShip aerospace fighters and DropShips began to engage as the Clipperton settled into firing position. The sheer number of aerospace fighters buzzing around the WarShip were overwhelming the defence squadron and the Leopards beginning to nip at the Clipperton's armour, the WarShip's Naval Lasers, Autocannons and Sub-Capital Cannons began to pick out individual aerospace fighters eliminating them with excessive force. From behind the frigate a wave of small craft and both Mules moved into range, the Clipperton's own small craft approached, as the DropShips entered range both ships blossomed capital missile fire, between them sixteen missiles charged in on the Frigate.
“Q-Ships!†The sensor operator shouted a warning but it was too late as missiles slammed into the Clipperton's aft areas tearing the armour and engine thrusters to pieces.â€
“Target weapons on those ships!†Anderson bellowed as a second wave of missiles launched “Have aerospace fighters and both DropShips divert and intercept those missiles.†He ordered “forward array eliminate the capital city.†He said, there was a calm on the bridge as the orders were given for the main forward weapon a Light Mass Driver was powered, the weapon would accelerate a massive shaped piece of metal to massive speeds the kinetic energy built up would cause massive damage to its target. Alongside the Mass Driver was a Killer Whale Capital Missile Launcher.
“Sir, we've identified one of the Q-Ships the Rio registered to McFadden's Sky Ridersâ€
“Mercenaries... show them no quarter.†Anderson ordered, he saw on the sensors that half the missiles from this wave had been shot down by the point defence fire put up by his two Leopards and small craft. Suddenly one of the Leopards disappeared after swallowing three capital missiles, suddenly the ship's signature doubled as the ship came apart, the Clipperton's rear weapons were now cutting into the two Mules causing heavy damage. Several more missiles impacted the rear of the WarShip causing yet more damage. As those missiles hit the mass driver and forward capital missile launcher fired three times in succession far below the rain of fire consumed the capital and the 500,000 inhabitants. What the initial fire did not kill the fires consuming the city would. “Move us to the next city.â€
“Sir?â€
“They have declared war on the Regulan Fiefs, fired on a Regulan registered WarShip, killed Regulan lives†he said his anger boiling “they said they will resist. We will test their resolve. Now move us to the next city.†He snapped as he watched one of the Mule's disappear from sensors over half of the aerospace fighters and of his small craft were also gone but it mattered not soon the mercenary fighters would be dead or have nowhere to land. As the WarShip re-positioned the second Leopard CV exploded under fire from enemy fighter and capital missile fire moments later the second Mule exploded. Around the Frigate fighters continued to fight and die, in position the over its second target the Clipperton spat more Killer Whale Missiles and Mass Driver fire tearing into another city below causing thousands of deaths. “Are there any communications from the ground?â€
“None sir.â€
“Fine there defiance will not go unanswered, move us to the next city, this will continue until they are all gone.â€
“Sir, our orders were to gain Albert Falls allegiance not to destroy them.†One officer complained
“Are you questioning my orders?â€
“No, sir...â€
“Then re-position the damned ship!†Anderson snapped, the officer turned back to his station firing the ship's thrusters re-positioning the craft. Along the WarShip's broadside both capital and sub-capital autocannons fired cutting down fighters of McFadden's Sky Raiders.
“Sir, the mercenary fighters are in retreat.†One of the crew said as the remaining fighters which numbered less than two squadrons began to pull back from the WarShip.
“We are receiving communications from one of the fighters, they wish to surrender.â€
“Are we in position over the next city?â€
“Yes, sir, but the fighters...†Anderson cut the officer off with a raised hand “weapons ready sirâ€
“Begin bombardment†Anderson ordered “those fighters are still in Barracuda range, continue firing until those ships are dead or our magazines are empty.†He said coldly looking at the screen Barracuda Capital Missiles were small enough to track aerospace fighters and had the range required for the job, the McFadden's fighters were unprepared for the sudden assault. The remaining squadrons were cut to pieces by the fire eliminating what was left of the mercenary unit.
There defences gone and Anderson unwilling to listen to further communications the RFS Clipperton moved positions over each of the cities of Albert Falls. In each case Mass Driver and Capital Missiles rained down on the people destroying every building. In some cases DropShips attempted to flee into space before the onslaught reached them but even in space there was nowhere to run as the Clipperton's gunners mercilessly cut down each escaping craft eliminating every living soul on the planet. After the bombardment was complete the WarShip turned to make the slow journey back to the jump point its engines damaged it would take even longer than the slow trip in system, before leaving Albert Falls Captain Howard Anderson ordered the forward mass driver used again this time on the moon colony wiping out the last survivors of the assault.
It took nearly three weeks for news of the destruction on Albert Falls to reach the rest of the Inner Sphere when a trade ship happened upon the dead system. Landing on the surface the crew found nearly three hundred survivors who had reached an underground shelter designed to survive the storms that periodically ravaged the planet. These survivors told the story of the last days of Albert Falls, the valiant but futile sacrifices of the McFadden's Sky Riders Mercenary Command and the actions of the RFS Clipperton. Within days of this news spreading the Star League Defence Force expelled the ambassadors to the Regulan Fiefs cutting all diplomatic relations, while Protector of the League Archer Christifori announced that the leaders of Regulus would not be welcome back at further council meetings or on Star League soil. Throughout the former-Free Worlds League the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, Oriente Protectorate, Rousset-Marik Alliance and the Rim Association all declared the Regulan Feifs a rogue state cutting diplomatic relations. To safeguard New Olympica Archer Christifori the Thirty-first Royal BattleMech Brigade, the Fourteenth and Eighty-Eighth Jump Infantry Regiments, the First and Second Blackwasp Defender Wings and the SLS Wasp were all all from the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division to show the SLDF had no intention on standing down to Regulan aggression, this is the first such deployment of elements of the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division since its landings on Liberty.
Grand Council Meeting
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
15th October 3087
“My fellow Khans, we are suffering our past failings.†ilKhan Brett Andrews said as he addressed the leaders of the assembled Clans all the Homeworlds leaders and the leaders of Clan Nova Cat and Wolf of the Inner Sphere Clans were present. “Our inability to complete the destruction of the Inner Sphere States has spread to our inability to control our holdings here...†He continued only to be interrupted by the laughter from Khan Nathan Fetladral of Clan Wolf “I do not see what is funny Clan Wolf.â€
“I do not understand you words ilKhan†the Clan Wolf leader said raising from his chair “my Clan stands where it invaded. As I remember Brett Andrews your Clan, the Steel Vipers, were once an invading Clan as were the Steel Vipers. Are those the failings you speak of?â€
“I speak of our collective failings, our collective impurity†Andrews said trying to counter Clan Wolf “failing to eliminate the Inner Sphere threat has divided us.â€
“Do not blame us for your failings Viper†Diana Pryde taunted via the HPG link
“And what of yours Jade Falcon? Wiping life from the face of an entire planet? Total war on a planetary scale against a civilian population.â€
“An expansion of the issues you are dealing with. I believe that the Star Adders nor the Cloud Cobras have been able to bring the reborn Burrocks to heel. Perhaps you should get your own worlds in order before you criticize others ilKhan.†Diana said her use of Brett Andrews rank was full of sarcasm with none of the respect the rank deserved.
“Perhaps a discussion for more reasonable heads.†Brett Andrews said standing down from his place Nathan Fetladral looked particularly smug about their humbling of the ilKhan today. Not knowing they had angered Brett Andrews beyond measure by today's embarrassment.
Initial Testing
DEST Training Centre, Training World
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
18th October 3087
Blinking in the light as the blindfold was removed from her head Tami Moto looked around seeing what appeared to be a DropShip hanger with a lance of BattleMechs stood silent against the walls beside her sat three men who looked equally bewildered a single figure in black strode forwards “Welcome to your first test. Your target is three kilometres to the east of here through hostile terrain, automated defences and hostile forces your mission it to make it to your target. All weapons are fully powered and if your Mech is disabled or destroyed you will have to find your own way back through the environment.†He said Tami was still trying to sort out things in her head when she saw the three men stand and move to the Mechs each Mech was identical they looked like no design that Tami recognized at they were in the assault class with a recessed head section into heavy shoulders. One arm carried a thick serrated blade too thick to be a sword Tami guessed perhaps a vibroblade of some sort. While the other ended in two laser emitters, a further smaller pair of lasers were high up on the torso. Five weapons, one a physical one, were not a massive amount of firepower for a design that size. As Tami closed on the Mech she saw the legs had Jump Jet exhausts and were reinforced that partially explained the lack of firepower the tonnage spent on the jump jets would limit the firepower somewhat but not completely. Climbing into the cockpit she brought other systems online seeing the reason for the lack of further firepower the Mech had a top speed of over one hundred kilometres per hour, this was done but having both an experimental Supercharger added to the engine and a MASC acceleration system for the legs both made the Mech faster but also made the engine and legs far easier to damage. In a serious situation she could rely on them but she'd try and avoid using them if possible. As the Mech powered up she saw the neural interface instantly recognized her these people must have taken her brain patterns from her Ryoken KU back on New Samarkand and placed them here in this Mech, wherever here was.
She had been grabbed on her way back to the barracks after patrol, it had all been over in seconds, one minute she was in her base the next in a darkened room. A shadowy figure much like the one who had just been with them had said she had been selected by the Coordinator of the Draconis Combine for a special duty serving with the DEST and that she would be traveling to a training world. She already planned once she completed her training to personally seek out and thank the Coordinator for this great, and unwanted, honour. Tami had thought she and Vincent Kurita had something but it seemed all he wanted was her away from him, perhaps all he wanted was to repay the debt owed for saving his life.
As the Mech powered it flashed up the name Banzai along with the letters MAL-1K followed by BNZ-XA. She knew the BNZ-XA would be the identification code for the Mech but MAL-1K was a Mauler. Tami visualized the Banzai and a Mauler the head was similar sunken into the shoulders the twin lasers replaced those seen on the Mauler, the biggest changes was the Mauler had a lot more firepower thank this Mech which was missing half the lasers, the autocannons and missiles of the other Mech.
Hopefully firepower wasn't the deciding factor of this fight. The other three candidates moved forward out of there bays, Tami moved forward following the others. All three charged straight into barrages of particle cannons and a surging river of molten lava. Shielded by the other three Tami turned immediately right engaging her jump jets launching her Mech clear of the particle cannons over the lava river. Behind her the three other Banzai's cut down the laser towers surging forward running her Mech forward at sixty kilometres per hour Tami was soon passed by the other three as they engaged both their supercharger and MASC systems pushing their Mechs to the maximum. “Bad move boys†Tami whispered moving through the ruins of several buildings something was familiar to her but she couldn't work it out, there was something wrong with this whole place. She watched the other three Mechs ahead slow down as they entered a paved street area that had so far survived the lava rivers and she assumed earthquakes. Everything was covered in thick layers of ash, Tami glanced at her scanners seeing why the other three Mechs had slowed shadowing them was a group of enemy Mechs. Cutting to her left Tami chose another path flanking the enemy as she closed on the other three Banzai's the enemy had engaged her Tami almost laughed as she saw the attackers were Revenants the remote Mechs that had attacked her on New Samarkand when she was training with Vincent.
Slowing her Mech to a walk she raised the Banzai's laser left arm the weapons mounted there spat red laser blasts cutting into the back of the QuadMechs the figure said nothing about this being a competition. Unable to deal with targets behind and in front of them the drone Mechs fell under the combined guns of the four Banzai's marching forward Tami buried her Mech's vibroblade in the torso of one of the Revenants severing both its left legs crashing the Quad to the ground. Although none of the four Mechs were able to communicate each of the warriors seemed to understand that working together, even in silence, was a better idea than going it alone.
Moving around a corner Tami looked up and saw a sight she had never expected to see... sitting at the end of the drive way, Imperial Drive to be exact, was what remained of the Imperial Palace of the Draconis Combine. They were on Luthien, former capital of their nation, everything they had seen was their world in its continued death throws. “No†Tami whispered “it can't be, we can't...†she whispered for her whole life she had been told to revere and protect Black Luthien and now it lay in state long abandoned, no-one lived here now only the DEST and their instructors. The other three warriors seemed to have gotten over the shock faster than Tami and were slowly moving off towards their destination wherever that was.
Moving down the street Tami fought back tears as she saw what had become of the Imperial City she knew every one of these streets to see them now cracked and covered in volcanic ash and debris. The former capital world had been brought down by a so-called rogue asteroid, its population dispossessed of their homes, it was a fate many had actually welcomed but one that Tami hated to believe she had seen Luthien as a beacon of hope throughout her life. Continuing forwards she approached the location on the DEST map along with the three other candidates emerging from an underground bunker arose five Clan BattleMechs “warriors I congratulate you on completing your journey now defend yourselves.†One of the warriors said opening fire with their Mech's missiles and lasers, the four Banzais charged forwards together as one showing unity that could not be communicated within moments they were engaged with all five Clan Mechs in close combat, pulse laser and laser fire preceded physical strikes with their Vibroblades slicing through arms and legs of their enemy. The Clan Mechs were all superior designs technologically than the Banzais but the four assault Mechs in close quarters the playing field was even, although all four Mechs were getting heavy damage within minutes two of the Clan designs were disabled. “Finish!†A voice communicated to all the Mechs at one every single Clan Mech and surviving Banzai froze nearly in the position that they had last moved “congratulations warriors, welcome to the rest of your lives.†The voice said again Tami could not tell if it was male or female only that she hoped that the rest of her life would not be spent on Luthien. She wondered exactly what Vincent Kurita's plan was for her future but she had decided after seeing what remained of the former Combine capital that her future would be a better one.
-
Dominion of John Marik, Twin Sons
Independent Member, Former-Free Worlds League
21st October 3087
After being held captive for more than a year Sandra Rimmer had been released from the custody of the Dominion of John Marik. By all accounts of her captures no further probes had arrived from the Rim Association, she'd by all intensive purposes been abandoned by her former comrades to a world that was completely alien to her. Fortunately as she left the prison facility she'd been held within she saw an instantly recognizable form standing waiting for her Michael Furey the former Smoke Jaguar Elemental warrior who had been exiled on the world many years before her stood waiting. The massive warrior looked no worse off for his time as a prisoner, she'd not seen him since the day of her capture. “Michael Furey I am glad to see you in good health.†She said honouring his Smoke Jaguar bloodname.
“Sandra Rimmer†he greeted her in return “it has been too long, the Dominion were not keen to let you go.â€
“I did not believe them when they said I would be soon free, you were released before me Quiaff?â€
“Aff, Port Arthur has made many friends in recent months the Dominion knew it was a matter of time before we liberated you by force.†He said turning towards a small ground vehicle.
“Port Arthur has become a force on this world, Quiaff?â€
“Neg, but we are a voice that cannot be ignored not since the war†he said climbing into the four wheeled Jeep it visibly sagged under his weight but held up Sandra climbed in the other side as Furey started the ending.
“What war? They did not tell me much.â€
“After your DropShip blasted and you were taken prisoner both the Northern states and the Southern got a little bit worried†Furey explained as he drove down the street on one of the corners stood one of the Twin Suns ultra-light Mechs, the design name Sandra couldn't remember, in its hand was a massive machine gun it was almost unlike anything she'd seen in the Clans or the Inner Sphere who had largely abandoned independent hand-held weapons in favour for weapons built onto a Mechs chassis. Furey drove straight past the machine and down a side street avoiding nearly any known traffic laws. “It is known as the six day war, both north and south pushed into the badlands treating it like their own little playground just like the Marik Twins that named this world.†He explained “for six days Mechs and armoured vehicles died in droves neither side gaining any ground. Port Arthur was overrun with refugees fleeing the fighting so we decided to intervene. Our hovercraft are very mobile on the sands of the badlands we sent a force behind both North and South formations striking their supply and communication lines.â€
“Did it work, Quineg?†Sandra asked attacking supply lines was hardly Clan tactics but they were hardly Clan any more.
“Neg†Furey replied “there main battle-lines were not far from the settlement of Port Gale and one of the three MagLev lines that connect the south and north. Both sides were using the MagLevs to bring in weapons because both North and South considered them neutral. The battle passed onto Port Gale causing more than two hundred civilian casualties in collateral our leadership decided that the conflict was no longer about the north and south that the Badlands had to stand for itself.â€
“Your leaders I thought you were their leadership?â€
“I am but one of the bloodnamed we have†he said Sandra was surprised she thought Michael Furey was the leader of Port Arthur. “Our council is made up of all the Bloodnamed, my vote was not enough to sway them to keep Port Arthur business separate from the Badlands business.â€
“You did not want to fight?â€
“I was happy to fight but the council decided they were more interested in making a name for Port Arthur, they said that the refugees had turned our settlement into one like any other. We pushed into what remained of Port Gale, we also occupied the settlements of Fort Neil, Temple Heights and Lance Point merging their defence forces with our own. We declared the territory the Port Arthur Defence Zone and off limits to both the North and South and placed a price on use of the MagLev line travelling through our territory.†He said pausing as they reached a checkpoint on the outskirts of the city the guard looked at Furey disapprovingly as Furey handed his pass card over however the barrier raised soon after allowing them passage north into the Badlands. “Neither side took kindly to our interference nor were they willing to pay our prices. Our hovercrafts firepower kept them at bay while an Elemental Headhunter team captured the southern commander and eliminated the northern one. Both sides pulled back until further commanders arrived neither sides army was willing to push us further, when the new commanders arrived both the Dominion of John Marik and Northern States of Cameron Marik agreed to a peace deal with the Port Arthur Defence Zone.â€
“Sounds like your people have found a place on this world.â€
“Perhaps it just depends on where we go from here.†He said as their vehicle passed a Twin Son styled Mech wearing the colours and insignia of Clan Smoke Jaguar, colours that had not been seen on the battlefield in Sandra's time as a Clan Warrior. “You have resurrected Clan Smoke Jaguar Quineg?â€
“Neg, not quite†Furey said watching the Mech pass them “we have no genetics program or training sibkos. Clan Smoke Jaguar's colours give our people a sense of identity.â€
“Hopefully the Inner Sphere does not discover your reborn sense of identity.â€
“We never lost it†he said as the vehicle reached the gates of Port Arthur where two more machines stood both painted in the Smoke Jaguar colours. Both machines stood to attention as Furey drove into Port Arthur. Furey drove straight into the Mechbay structure.
“Out of the cell straight into action...†Sandra said her voice drifting off as she saw the Mech standing in the bay “you rebuilt her†she whispered looking up at the forty-five ton Shadow Cat OmniMech “how?â€
“After we formed the Defence Zone we found the Mech's remains near the lift of site of your DropShip the CASE saved it from complete destruction. Anyone else on the planet would have struggled with the Fusion Engine repairs but our techs were able, unfortunately two of the lasers, the entire right arm and Autocannon were all totally destroyed. It took some doing but we were able to remove one of the LB-5X Autocannons from one of our DropShips that we've integrated into our facilities here, a little less fire-power than the old one but better range and ammo. Would you believe local manufactured metals have the same make up as Endo Steel without the orbiting facility?â€
“Impressive†Sandra said not even thinking about what he was saying only having eyes for the Shadow Cat, she'd never thought she'd see the Mech again.
“Indeed it is, you two can get reacquainted later now I have someone you need to meet.†Furey said nearly dragging Sandra away from the rebuilt OmniMech. The two exited the Mechbay into a small two storey building, he led Sandra to the second level into a room with several seats and two tables, on one wall was the insignia of Clan Smoke Jaguar. In front of it stood one man at least seventy years old wearing the uniform of a Smoke Jaguar Galaxy Commander that had patches from Clans Sea Fox, Star Adder, Wolf and Nova Cat sown into the arm each patch with a strike through it. “Sandra Rimmer, allow me to introduce The Jaguar.â€
“The Jaguar?†Sandra said her anger boiling slightly “the same Jaguar who is known over a dozen Clan worlds? A fallen warrior of a fallen Clan who wishes only revenge over those he thinks should have came to his Clan's aid against an enemy?†She said never taking her eyes off the older warrior
“See I told you she would have heard of me†The Jaguar said pleased at her knowledge not denying a word.
“I thought you would be taller.†She said looking him down “Michael Furey, this man is a butcher wanted by all of the Clans, you do not want to be associated with him.â€
“The Clans are a long way from here Sandra Rimmer, you are not even a member of a Clan any longer Quiaff?†The Jaguar said Sandra only nodded she couldn't help but glance at the Nova Cat insignia on his uniform arm, the older warrior did not miss her gaze “I am not the warrior you believe I am. My men and women only did what they needed to survive, our raids were built up by the Clans making us more feared so they could bring greater punishment to us if we were ever captured. The Star Adders cornered my people on Ghent about two years ago, they slaughtered a quarter of my troops and many of our civilians. I knew our time in the Homeworlds was coming to an end, and I knew that elements of my former Clan had fled to the broken Free Worlds League nation. Through contact with several of them it brought us here exhausting the majority of our remaining fuel in the process. I decided to land ahead of the others to see if we would be welcome?†He said looking at Sandra.
“Why look at me? I am a visitor as much as you.†She said looking at Michael Furey
“Our council has agreed that should your Liger Warriors return, we will petition for the Port Arthur Defence Zone to join the Twin Sons. We cannot speak for the North or South but we would like our people to live and die alongside fellow Clansmen.â€
“Not all the Ligers are Clansmen now Michael Furey. Our unit is part of the Rim Association, many of us have even given up our past with the Nova Cats.†She said quietly the history between the Nova Cats and the Smoke Jaguars was a difficult one at best, they had never liked each other since events early in Clan history.
“Perhaps that is a good thing.†The Jaguar said quietly “my people have fought your Clan recently, the changes your people have gone through will be a good way to remind my people that we are all different people than we used to be.â€
“There are ground rules.†Sandra said gaining confidence, if these people wanted to work with the Rim Association, she would act as a Rim Association officer again. “No butchering of civilian targets or murdering of downed and surrendered pilots.†She said looking at The Jaguar harshly “and open relations between your people, the people of the Port Royal and our people when they return. Starting with your real identity? The Clans built on the name you took for yourself and never informed us of your real name.â€
“I believe those are terms that our Council also stressed when The Jaguar and his people first arrived, we are Clankin but we have lives here that we have built on ourselves.â€
“Aff, I agree to your terms†The Jaguar said extending his hand towards Sandra Rimmer “I am Galaxy Commander Russou Howell of the Smoke Jaguar Clan†he said proudly “I commanded the defence of Huntress against the Inner Sphere forces before the arrival of ilKhan Osis. After the Great Refusal I retreated with the few select loyal warriors I could find. I currently command a mixed three Nova strong Cluster of former Smoke Jaguars and Dark Caste members and nearly two hundred civilians from the Clan Homeworlds who wish only a better life. I haven't had a drink in nearly six months, mainly because we ran out, and we are transported by the CSJ Streaking Mist, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser.†He finished Sandra could barely believe what she had just heard.
“Great Father...†she whispered Russou Howell had just presented her with something she had never expected when the Liger Warriors left Clan Nova Cat, a WarShip, perhaps Trent Higall's vision was finally paying off.
“The Great Father be damned!†Russou almost instantly shouted followed by an almost evil laugh “the Streaking Mist has been maintained by the Smoke Jaguars since the fall of the Star League, the Great Father and founder did nothing for the ship nor did any of the other Clans including your precious Nova Cats!†He said the spite in his voice for their former Clan brethren was unmissable. “We have enough functional weapons and ammunition to turn fifty percent of the settlements on this world into slag that should knock the locals down enough pegs to allow our ground forces a foot hold and secure a quick bloodless victory.†Russou Howell said talking about the deaths of hundreds as if it were nothing.
“Bloodless? You're talking about another Turtle Bay!†Sandra exclaimed in horror “did you not learn anything from the Smoke Jaguars fall? The only reason the Inner Sphere chose them as a target was because of the actions at Turtle Bay and the Smoke Jaguar treatment of their civilians.†She explained “my terms stated no butchering of civilian targets.â€
“How we do our business is none of your concern.†He said almost completely ignoring her words or the agreement he'd agreed to abide by. “Michael Furey, I believe we should start in the northern hemisphere once it is secure we can target the southern region.â€
“Neg†Michael Furey said quietly looking at Russou coldly
“Neg? We should dominate this world! Do not tell me you are taken in by this Nova Cat's words and false visions?â€
“It has nothing to do with Sandra Rimmer's words or her former Clan it has to do with ours. Russou, I was part of the Occupation Forces I fought in REVIVAL I saw what our people did, and why the Inner Sphere reacted how it did.†He said his voice near breaking with the pain of the memories “we cannot do that here, we will not do that here.†He said finally “the people of this world have a diverse culture that knows nothing of our failings of the past not have they held it against us that we are from beyond this world.â€
“They did not react well to our arrival†Sandra Rimmer pointed out.
“No they did not but they did not react well to our arrival to begin with either.†Michael Furey said quietly “however we stuck with it and they have begun to accept that we are as much part of this world as they are. Russou your people are welcome in the Port Arthur Defence Zone, and we will supply you with any supplies you need to keep the Streaking Mist operational but that's it there will be no war of conquest against the people of this world.â€
“My people have not had peace in sometime, perhaps a constantly warring world is the place for them to find home. I will abide by these restrictions Michael Furey. Sandra Rimmer, if any of your vessels approach we will allow them to pass but if anyone else comes near this world they will be destroyed – agreed?â€
“Yes, although I have no idea when and if any further Rim Association forces will come to this world, perhaps my people will see it as too difficult considering the atmospheric problems.â€
“If they do then you are most welcome in the embers of a reborn Clan Smoke Jaguar, with the world of the Twin Sons of Marik as it's new capital. Uniting brothers long separated on a world long forgotten by the Inner Sphere.†Russou Howell said smiling “together our people can have a glorious future, together the Inner Sphere and Clans will fear us once more.†He said staring off into an as of yet unrealized future both Sandra Rimmer and Michael Furey exchanged glances unsure if Russou Howell's plans were good or bad for the inhabitants of the world.
There were several moments of silence before Russou Howell spoke again uttering a single word “Seyla†the traditional Clan agreement both Sandra Rimmer and Michael Furey through the shared Clan history both could not stop themselves repeating the word as they did the entire building began to shake. Sandra made for the door followed closely by Michael Furey and then finally Russou Howell. In the air around Port Arthur descended seven DropShips each bearing signs of heavy combat damage which had been patched together over time, each also carrying the insignia of Clan Smoke Jaguar. “My people†Howell said quietly “they have have listened to our discussion my friends, they have made their own choices to land on this world, they will abide by my agreements.†Both Sandra and Michael exchanged looks of uncertainty, the Liger unit had arrived with a single DropShip and eventually brought an assault from the Southern realms now seven such craft were landing it was only time until further trouble erupted on the Twin Sons.
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Offensive
Former-Free Worlds League
30th October 3087
Elsewhere in the Former-Free Worlds League word was spreading of the acts of the Regulan Fiefs on Albert Falls. The Marik-Stewart Commonwealth declared war on their neighbours almost as soon as the revaluation of the Regulan's actions. Within hours of the declaration of war the First Free Worlds League Legionaries Regiment supported by the WarShips Leodegrance, an Eagle-class Frigate, and the Paul Marik, a Zechetinu II-class Corvette, landed on the world of Helios Minor ambushing elements of the Fifth Regulan Hussars Regiment while most remained within their base capturing over a Battalion of equipment and their warriors without a fight.
At the same time as the success on Helios Minor the Second Marik-Stewart Legionaries landed on Altutaki attacking further elements of the Fifth Regulan Hussars. This time two Battalions of the Regiment were engaged in a battle simulation on the ground. The Regulan ground forces despite using sensors and computers to simulate combat tried to engage in battle instead of surrendering charging the Legionaries trying to engage them in physical combat. The Regulan force is cut down to the man.
-
New Worlds Cluster, Nova Cat Expansion
New Telegonus, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
3rd November 3087
Through the Atmosphere three Aqueduct-class DropShips along with a single Outpost Defender-class DropShip. The Aqueducts had been traded from the Filtvelt Coalition while the Outpost had been captured from Clan Hell's Horses. The three Aqueduct's landed around the Outpost on the icy tundra, the doors opened and two figures walked to the bottom of the ramp. “Not the best place for our people†one said quietly his voice muffled by the wind blowing around.
“No not the best, Oathmaster, but they will suffice.†the other female figure said quietly “Fiana and New Aega will be worlds for our people. The plains on Fiana will feed our people and New Aega can provide us with the minerals and materials we need to build our crafts. This moon, New Telegonus, has the natural fuel resources which will keep our forces moving, it may be frozen but our tests have shown it is just what we need.†She continued
“Just what we need, Yvonne, just what we need†he repeated roaring with laughter pulling down his face mask looking over the snow Zane Carns could feel the chill nip his skin. He was mildly impressed with what the Khan's “wife†had been capable of she had recently rejoined the New Worlds Cluster, wining a Trial of Position to prove her worth, helping scout out worlds near the Nova Cat's Den. This moon, hidden under a gas giant, had been the last identified and was only detected due to the advanced sensors on the Storm, one of the Clan's Bug Eye Scout Vessels.
The moon was barely habitable it was frozen across its entire surface and suffered 80mph winds at every hour of the day but had resources. New Aega was a solid rock of natural rock and metals while Fiana was a paradise compared to the others with rolling plains in the north and south and thick jungles in the equatorial zone with Nova Cat scientists already believing they had found medical properties in some of the animals and plants.
The names had been chosen for significant names in the Nova Cat history Fiana was named after the Brotherhood of Fiana. Encountered by the barely founded Clans during Operation KLONDLIKE the Brotherhood had been a force of honourable warriors on Circe who had tried to keep their people safe on Circe and fight the Clans in an honourable manner. Their eventual hand over to Nova Cat rule was more like a carnival than a defeat with the Brotherhood's warriors accepted as warriors by many Clans unlike other faction's warriors. Aega and Telegonus were named for the natural satellites of Circe in the Clan Homeworlds, the names had been chosen by Yvonne after she heard a rumour certain members of the Clan wanted to name worlds after Khans of the Nova Cats which was the last thing that her husband, Canin Rosse, wanted for fear one would one day be named after him. Instead names important to the Nova Cat's history had been chosen which the Oathmaster had thought was a perfect way to help the Nova Cats reflect on their progress.
“We will also be setting aside an area on Aega closed to civilians and traders.†He revealed “it is time we started testing some of our new weaponry.â€
“I thought New Haiti and Tortuga Prime were such a places?†She asked she had found these worlds to help expand the Nova Cat's territory peacefully, weapons testing was the opposite.
“Aff they are, however the Khan wishes for a more public arena.â€
“Oathmaster, we have found these worlds no-one knows where they are?â€
“The Khan has ordered me to reveal Aega's location to our neighbours and the other Clans. It will be our official trading post into and out of the Nova Cat's Den. Since the Sea Foxes decided to close their trading post on Tortuga, it is an opportunity for us.â€
“The Sea Foxes closed their post as the other Clans were becoming frustrated with their trading, we must be careful already there are rumours.†She warned after reading one of Canin's letters from the Homeworlds it sounded as though the new ilKhan had it in for all the Inner Sphere Clans already the Ghost Bears had been targeted.
“Aff, however we still have the support of the Inner Sphere Clans they know we could match each of them if it came to it.†Zane said smirking again the bravado did not convince Yvonne she knew the other Clans were powerful entities so far the Nova Cats had been isolated from them with only the Ravens and Foxes taking an interest. “With Aega we will be able to gauge everyone's reaction to our expansion and have a new testing ground. Tortuga is suffering under our constant use, the Khan wishes to restrict it to urban training, New Haiti has a growing civilian population and needs to focus on production instead of testing.â€
“I am sure Tau Galaxy will not be happy.†She commented, Tau Galaxy had received all the new toys from New Haiti's plant for years now they would be missing those upgrades although the vehicle factory on that world would still be producing vehicles necessary to the Nova Cat needs.
“Neg, but perhaps it will spur them on to have more interest in fighting than training.†He said quietly Tau Galaxy for all its advanced equipment was also perhaps one of the greenest of the Nova Cat Galaxies following years of garrison duty. “A bright future indeed, just as has been foreseen, a shinning light in the dark.†He said his eyes focused on something other than the snow.
“The dark of space or another dark?†Yvonne questioned
“A looming threat that does not go away until the Nova Cat pays its price.†Zane said without another word he walked back into the DropShip. Yvonne stayed on the ramp for a few moments later searching for what Zane believed he had seen before following him. Within days of the Nova Cat's reveal of New Aega's location and its intended purpose the worlds of Great Gorge and Sodertalje in the Federated Suns' Outback region announced their intent to join the Filtvelt Coalition. According to the Nova Cat Watch Filtvelt had been courting the two worlds for weeks and the decision to split from the Federated Suns was a coincidence. On New Avalon many question whether the Nova Cat expansion is a good thing, while on Taurus they see the Nova Cats as a growing threat to their future.
Transition
Keid, Byrant, New Home
Star League Protectorate
5th November 3087
Following the body blows of Great Gorge and Sodertalje defecting to the Filtvelt Coalition the Federated Suns is rocked by news that Keid, Byrant and New Home have all agreed terms to leave the Federated Suns and join the Star League Protectorate. For more than ten years a line AFFS unit had not been on any of the worlds surrounded by Protectorate worlds on all sides. More surprising to many within the Federated Suns is when the people of the Federated Suns learn that First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion knew all about the transition of power.
Operation KOS (Kill-on-Sight)
Etienne's Sanctuary, independent system
Periphery
13th November 3087
What started on Denzili, continues as Clan Jade Falcon continues to chase down rogue scientists and civilians, takes the Clan into the periphery. The battleship Falcon's Nest and the Heavy Cruiser Blue Talon escorting Alpha Galaxy, under the command of Loremaster Bryan Pryde, entered an uncharted system. They found no defending forces at the jump point however strong communication signals from one of the system's three worlds, traveling in system the Jade Falcon force was communicated to via the planet's HPG, the Jade Falcons believing the planet wished to surrender answered. Almost as soon as contact had been established the Blue Talon's KF Drive activated jumping the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser the KF wave from the jump damaged three of Alpha Galaxy's DropShips although they were able to continue.
With the Blue Talon gone Bryan Pryde ordered his force to accept no surrender from anyone on the world. Landing Alpha Galaxy immediately went on the attack striking down anyone who wondered into their weapons range. The Jade Falcons encountered dozens of ProtoMechs on the planet a technology they considered a dead end and had consigned to caches in the homeworlds. Seeing these ProtoMechs Bryan Pryde knew that others within the Clan had supported these rebels.
Encountering significant resistance outside a series of caves after breaching the defences Elementals of the Sixth Falcon Lancers Cluster escorted Bryan Pryde through the caves where the Loremaster executed Etienne. With the scientist confirmed dead Alpha Galaxy retreated to the Falcon's Nest in orbit. The Texas-class Battleship then began an orbital bombardment of the world scorching all life from the planet's surface.
Officially this act ends the Jade Falcon's “Scientist Crisis†however over the course of the next three weeks nearly three hundred Jade Falcon scientists are found dead or die in unexplained circumstances. An extensive search of the systems in the periphery region is made by the Jade Falcons however no evidence of the Blue Talon is found.
Command Meeting
Port Arthur, Twin Sons
Former Free Worlds League
15th November 3087
It had been a month of continuous change on Twin Sons. No-one had missed the arrival of Russou Howell's DropShips. Across the world there was fear and anger at the arrival of further outsiders Twins Sons had been a world forgotten by the outside, and many on the world wished it had remained as such. Both the Northern States of Cameron Marik and the Allied States of John Marik had deployed units to the borders of the Port Arthur Defence Zone, none had violated Port Arthur's claimed territory yet but it was only time daily the amount of troops and artillery grew, there was also rumours that both the North and South had released their “Capital†assets to support units around Port Arthur. Standing atop one of Port Arthur's gatehouses Michael Furey looked over the sands of the Badlands knowing the war was coming “Michael Furey, you look worried†Sandra Rimmer said for the past month she had watched as Russou Howell had taken more and more resources to repairing and upgrading his DropShips for use in the Twin Sons turbulent atmosphere.
“I am†he admitted “my people feel a sense of rebirth, I worry that we are on the precipice of a final defeat.â€
“Howell?†She said quietly, Russou Howell had a cult of personality around him that had taken in both his own people and those that had settled in Port Arthur before. Even now more and more of the inhabitants were referring to the Port Arthur Defence Zone as the “Clan Smoke Jaguar Occupation Zone.â€
“Not only Russou†he admitted “Sandra Rimmer, my people have been lost for nearly thirty years, any of us that remember our past.†He said turning towards Sandra “truely remember our past as Clan warriors are now old men and women. But we remember our greatness.â€
“The Nova Cats believe that age is something of worth, not just a burden, you can be an old warrior and a great one.â€
“And that is the problem.†Michael Furey said “look down there at the gates. Just one month ago we had two Twin Son developed Mechs defending our gates, today we have two Clan designed and built OmniMechs piloted by trueborn warriors.†He turned around looking into the Port Arthur compound “we have two full Stars of BattleMechs, two stars of vehicles and an entire star of Elemental suits.â€
“A force to be reckoned with†Sandra admitted “but not enough for a world like this, the Twin Sons is a very well developed world.â€
“This I know, as do most of Port Arthur's leadership but there is still the memory of our greatness and his damned belief that we have one thing they cannot match.â€
“The Streaking Mist?â€
“Aff, unfortunately Russou Howell does not know all of the Twin Sons secrets.†He said “this world was a playground for House Marik's children, Cameron and John both played with this world giving it Mechs that could fight but not conquer, but in case anyone every did come here with a force worth they also provided it with Star League levels of defence.â€
“Such as?†She asked quietly
“Trouble we cannot weather.â€
“Howell is planning on testing the resolve of the North and South by escorting a trade convoy to Peace River If he thinks he has the backing of your people too he will try and force a confrontation. If you are right you cannot win that, Quiaff?†Sandra began but Michael Furey was already moving forwards.
“Aff, and in that case I must act†he said walking down the steps marching towards Russou Howell's powered down Mad Dog OmniMech. “Russou Howell, I would like you to step down from this escort.†He said looking at the MechWarrior as he prepared to ascend to his OmniMech.
“Neg, I need to see what this world is made of, it is only a simple escort.â€
“Smoke Jaguars care little for escorts, you cannot spark a conflict we cannot win.â€
“We were born for combat Michael Furey, perhaps in your old age you have forgotten this. This little world is the perfect place for a Solahma to end his career in safety Quiaff?â€
“Neg, it is the perfect place for us to rebuild, but it takes patience.â€
“Patience is for the dead Michael Furey.†Russou Howell said quietly turning towards his OmniMech “I will bring you the glorious patience you require Furey.â€
“Negative, Russou Howell†Furey said reaching out grabbing the MechWarrior's shoulder Howell spun around extending his left arm towards Furey striking the Elemental's face. Howell despite his advanced age was still a fit man but engaging an Elemental, even an aged one like Michael Furey, in unarmed combat was not his best plan. Being struck outside a Circle of Honour was enough for Michael Furey moving quickly he hit Russou Howell in the face several times knocking him backwards, all around warriors both of Port Arthur and of Russou's forces gathered.
“I declare a Circle of Equals, you cannot strike me and get away with it!†Howell shouted wiping blood from the corner of his lip.
“So be it†Michael Furey said flexing his arms “I will give you the fight you so want Russou Howell.†He was ready to fight the man known as the Jaguar here and now.
“Not here, not now.†Howell said looking around seeing the gathering warriors. “You wish to prove to the people of this world that we are no threat? Then we should engage in battle, your forces and mine, the people of this world know you Michael Furey, if they see you defeat us in combat they will know that their world is a retirement home for aged Clan warriors†he said bringing a laugh from several of Russou's warriors. “And if I win they will know the might of Clan Smoke Jaguar!†He said raising his voice getting several cheers of agreement.
“Our Clan can be reborn on these sands Russou Howell, but there are ways beyond crushing them under your feet.†Michael Furey said “our people have made a life here, I will speak with the Northern and with the Southern commanders and explain our ways. We will fight, a combined-arms arms unit of Star strength, tomorrow at noon on the sands of the Badlands. If this is the place of our Clan's rebirth then we will do so in the open for all this world to see.†He declared turning to walk away.
“So be it, tomorrow you will have all the patience you need Michael Furey, all the patience of a lifetime.†Russou Howell promised as Michael Furey began to walk away. The Elemental did not answer The Jaguar instead he continued to walk quietly into the command building with Sandra Rimmer behind. A line had been drawn in the sand, the future of Port Arthur and perhaps even their Clan would be decided the only way Clan Smoke Jaguar could ever understand, by blood.
Trial of Possession
Badlands, Twin Sons
Former Free Worlds League
16th November 3087
Several kilometres from Port Arthur the two wayward factions of Clan Smoke Jaguar faces on the sands of the Twin Sons. Beyond them units of both the Northern and Southern realms waited in case the Smoke Jaguars were actually deciding that this would be a good time to launch an assault not understanding that this was a conflict that the people of Port Arthur would settle only by combat.
As agreed the day before both sides had taken combined-arms units of Star strength Russou Howell had almost predictably gone with his own Mad Dog, a Hunchback IIC standard Clan BattleMech, a pair of Ishtar Heavy Support Tanks and two points of Elemental Battle Armour for his star. His own Mad Dog was configured as a Long Range Missile Boat capable of saturating targets from range. The Hunchback IIC was a dangerous design with paired Ultra-type Autocannons while the Ishtar's were a very common Smoke Jaguar armoured vehicle with heavy autocannon and Long Ranger Missile support options combining weapon types from both the Mad Dog and Hunchback IIC into one frame unfortunately they were also wheeled vehicles which would hinder them in the Badlands.
Unable to select a large variety of standard Clan equipment like his opponent Michael Furey had instead stuck with what his people were most familiar with. His own Elemental Point was backed by two locally produced Heavy Hovertanks and two Light Hovertanks between their mix of speed, autocannons and missiles they should be enough to counter the heavier Ishtar's their Jump Jet systems would give them an advantage beyond anything that Russou Howell's forces had. Sandra Rimmer's Shadow Cat and a pair of Ares Medium Tanks made up the last elements of the Star, Sandra Rimmer was not a member of the Port Arthur Defence Force but she had agreed to assist him and provide much needed Mech support while the two Ares Medium Tanks had been part of the Port Arthur Force since they were abandoned in the system, their tracks would put them at a disadvantage but their missile batteries would help match those on Russou Howell's Mad Dog and their lasers would provide a constant threat to all The Jaguar's forces.
“Sandra Rimmer, I owe you a debt of gratitude for your assistance†Michael Furey said into his communication system looking up at the rebuilt Shadow Cat unlike before when the Mech had been painted in nearly standard Nova Cat colours it was now painted in the desert camouflage that was far more common on the Twin Sons.
“I owed you as much Michael Furey, your actions ensured that my people were able to return to their homes. And since their escape you have provided me with shelter and a new place to call home.†She replied from her cockpit.
“This will be a tough fight†he said quietly “they out gun us significantly Quiaff?â€
“Aff but we have mobility and surprise on our side. Most likely the Hunchback will be our biggest threat, it could take out any of our units with a single salvo.â€
“The perfect choice for a weak warrior in his initial trial.†He said with disdain the Hunchback IIC with its Ultra Autocannons were designed for one mission to kill an enemy Mech very quickly with as little skill required. It was the perfect Mech for the warrior trainee that was not confident in his first Trial of Position. “If you do not mind giving me a lift, I think I can take care of it.†Sandra Rimmer replied with a single click “good switching channels†he said “Star this is Command, Point 1 will engage the Hunchback after a lift from Point 5. Point 2 will engage the Ishtar, be wary of their Autocannons use your speed to avoid their fire. Point 3 you are on anti-Elemental duty, Point 5 will assist you after delivering Point 1. Point 4 you are on counter battery duties against Howell's Mad Dog, keep him dancing too much to bother the rest of us.†There was a series of clicks in reply “Remember, we are no longer Clan, neither are our opponents ignore Zellbrigen for the good of our people and our future.†there was another series of clicks “good then we are ready.†He said looking up at the Twin Sons sky today would determine the fate of his people, they would not fail.
“Russou Howell, you do not understand the ways of the Twin Sons people or of those of Port Arthur. Your inability to change to match your environment is the exact same problem our Clan had. I will not allow you to do to us what happened to them. I declare this Trial of Possession for command and ownership of everything that is yours. This Trial is between us and the forces we have assembled, may no other enter.â€
“I accept your challenge Michael Furey, you are as timid as the Nova Cat you are snuggled up with, we are Smoke Jaguars it is our birthright to rule. All should tremble at our name and raise to our cause. We are destined to be the ilClan, all others should know their place and conform to our rule. And you will have your patience today.†Howell replied
“Seyla†they both said together ending the rite. Michael Furey and his Elemental point jumped up onto Sandra Rimmer's Shadow Cat which immediately began to accelerate. Both Ares Medium Tanks began firing their missiles at Russou Howell's OmniMech as all four Hovertanks accelerated off in the other direction following their orders.
As the Shadow Cat closed on the Hunchback IIC Sandra fired her own autocannon and lasers at the Elementals which were moving towards her OmniMech. The lighter Hovercraft of the Port Arthur cut across the Shadow Cat's path showering Howell's Elementals with Short Range Missile and autocannon fire Sandra cut in with further laser, autocannon and gauss rifle fire the locally manufactured weapons acted almost exactly like their Clan manufactured counterparts. In the backfield the heavier Hovercraft were firing on the Ishtar tanks which were vainly trying to track them with their turret autocannons. As the Shadow Cat ran across the battlefield Michael Furey and his Elemental point jumped from their positions onto the Hunchback initiating a swarm attack. Sandra instantly launched her OmniMech into the air avoiding autocannon fire.
The Hunchback pilot tried to swat off Michael Furey's Elementals Russou Howell's Mad Dog was continuously being showered by long range missile and laser fire his counter fire against the two Ares tanks was proving to be less than effective. The Elementals were clambering over the Hunchback tearing up armour, the pilot swatted one of the battle armoured troopers to one side with one of its arms. The trooper flew off the BattleMech smashing into the ground, amazingly after a moment or two the warrior began to get back up again only to be engaged on the ground by another Elemental. On the fifty ton BattleMech's back Michael Furey dug his suit's battle claw deep into the Mech's armour, raising his other arm he fired the laser mounted there cutting through armour, from the suit's back he launched both short range missiles mounted there blasting away more armour from the Hunchback. The other three Elementals still stuck to the BattleMech were all doing the same and the pilot was having a tough time keeping his balance one of the missile detonations tipped off the Ultra autocannon's ammo bin. The Mech's CASE system activated channeling the blast out the Hunchback's back one of the Elementals was blasted off the Hunchback's back by the blast vaporizing the trooper.
Across the battlefield the Elementals of Howell's command were being cut to shreds by autocannon and missile fire from the light hovertanks while the heavier hovertanks were cutting into the armour of the Ishtars. One of the Ishtar's autocannons tore across the side of the hovertank shattering armour damaging the vehicle's engine. The over tank spun out smashing into the ground, moments later the vehicle's turret turned back on the Ishtar as the crew continued to fight despite the damage to their vehicle. Further autocannon and laser fire from the Ishtar crushed the remaining armour of the heavy hovertank consuming the crew in fire. Howell was becoming tired of the continuous long range missile fire and was marching steadily towards the two Ares which were continuing to fire laser and missile fire at the heavier OmniMech as it closed. Sandra Rimmer walked her Mech behind the Mad Dog firing laser and autocannon fire into the heavy design's weaker rear armour cutting through the armour into its vital internal systems.
Russou Howell the seasoned veteran he was continued to march forwards towards the paired Ares firing combined large and medium pulse laser weapons from the arm mounted pods cutting into the armour of the tracked vehicles. Sandra continued to fire destroying more of the Mad Dog's internal structure and vital systems damaging the gyroscope. Howell's Mech stumbled forwards however it kept its feet, now close enough he charged forward and kicked one of the two Ares smashing the view port killing the driver. A scream came over the communications “Furey! Look at what you have reduced us to!†He shouted “fighting like dezgra dogs over scraps of meat and land! We should have ruled this world together as brothers!â€
“Brothers quarrel Howell, allies work together no matter what they personally want.†Michael Furey replied leaping from the Hunchback IIC as the pilot succumb to the Elemental swarm attack. His remaining two point mates joining him on the sands as they moved forwards towards Howell's embattled Elementals. Russou Howell marched up to the second Ares kicking the vehicle's left track knocking the tracks loose of the vehicle while turning one of his Mech's pulse lasers onto the turret of the Ares savaging the weapons systems mounted there.
“I will kill you wall, one by one you will fall to my guns, I will reforge Clan Smoke Jaguar and all the Clans will tremble when they hear my name.†He continued to rant turning his Mad Dog, standing in front of the Heavy OmniMech Sandra Rimmer's Shadow Cat stood. “And finally our ancient enemies rear their ugly face, you're clan will be among the first to be forfeit!â€
“Russou Howell, I challenge you to a Circle of Equals!†Sandra Rimmer said over an open communication “your beliefs are flawed the people of this world are not ants for you to crush, the Clans will never even know your name!â€
“Fear me little Nova Cat.†Howell said firing on the Shadow Cat with his pulse lasers. Sandra returned fire with her autocannon and anti-personal weapons. As she cut to the right she triggered both medium lasers burning away further armour from the Mad Dog's legs, arms and torso. Howell's rely was a combined medium and large pulse laser assault one of the large pulse weapons burned into the Shadow Cat's left leg. Launching the OmniMech into the air on its jump jets Sandra twisted the Mech's torso and cut off an autocannon blast at the Mad Dog, the slugs slammed into the torso section ruining the LRM launcher there, Sandra suddenly realized that Furey hadn't used the LRM system at all landing her Shadow Cat she turned towards the Mad Dog and ran closer firing the autocannon, lasers and anti-personnel weapons all at the same time cutting into the heavier Mech.
As the distances closed Howell fired his remaining LRM launcher showering Sandra's Mech in missiles as her OmniMech staggered under the missiles Howell laughed “just because I don't use does not mean it doesn't exist.†He said chuckling as Sandra retreated further pulse laser fire followed her in her retreat cutting away more of the Mech's armour.
“You are slipping Howell listen to your own words.†Sandra taunted launching her Mech into the air again almost as soon as it had landed this time she angled the Jump Jets forcing the OmniMech into an awkward reverse jump. Jumping a Mech backwards was according to her original instructor stupid, although a pilot had rear cameras and knew approximately knew how far they would be travelling there was nearly no-way to be certain how and where the Mech would come down. It was also a decidedly unnatural move to make, Mechs were generally built along human structured lines with a head on top of a torso that had two arms and two legs, or a Mech with four legs which was more like an animal. Although a Mech used jump jets powered by its Fusion engine to achieve a jump it still had to land just like a human would from a jump, and jumping backwards at full strength was not something most humans were good at.
As the OmniMech flew through the air Sandra triggered both of her Medium Lasers aimed down at the Mad Dog below the first bore into the rear armour of the Mad Dog's head. The armour burned away Howell screamed in anger and possibly pain the second laser burned down through the upper torso armour hitting the engine shielding. When the Shadow Cat landed on the ground four things happened nearly instantly after the next. Firstly Sandra pressed the trigger on the Mech's autocannon. Second the impact with the ground shattered and twisted the left foot actuator severing it completely from the leg, then the Mech tripped over its twisted and broken leg finally it slammed into the ground shredding the rear torso armour.
Quickly Sandra rolled her Mech onto the left side using the lower arm actuators to help wedge the Mech up quickly the right hand side was made up entirely by the autocannon mounted there. Looking at her armour graph Sandra noted that the Shadow Cat's rear armour was almost entirely gone she'd have to watch for future damage there. Scanning around she couldn't see the Mad Dog it wasn't fast enough to get out of her visual range, glancing down she saw OmniMech laying on the ground completely shut down further explosions on the rear of the Mech showing here her autocannon shells had torn into the same place where the lasers had struck. Howell's Mech was either shut down from damage, Howell was dead or a combination of the two.
Around them the Smoke Jaguars on both sides of the battle were winding down their battles with the forces of Russou Howell shutting down their weapons or turning their turrets away from their targets, the battle was over Howell was defeated even if he was alive. Over the next couple of hours Michael Furey was able to convince all the Smoke Jaguars including those aboard the Streaking Mist that his was was best, both commanders from the North and South agreed to give forces of Port Arthur space understanding that the newly arrived forces were not a new invasion force and Port Arthur would not be a threat to them, at least not immediately.
Trial of Annihilation
Priori, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
22nd November 3087
On the world of Priori in the Clan homeorlds not a single building had been untouched by weapons fire of some description with millions of civilians caught in the crossfire between the rogue Burrock warriors, Clans Star Adder and Cloud Cobra. In orbit the Burrock blockade continued to stop any reinforcements reaching the world and provided air superiority to the Burrock ground forces. None of the WarShips had resorted to orbital bombardment but the Star Adders and Cloud Cobras were slowly being rounded up in a tighter and tighter noose.
Elsewhere in the Homeworlds ilKhan Brett Andrews continues to challenge the Wolf and Jade Falcon Clans with further trials intended on keeping these Clans unbalanced and on the defensive. This works in two ways as it makes the Steel Vipers look strong but it also erodes their support in other areas as other Clans become worried about the Steel Vipers power, their continued grasps for power and there apparent willingness to allow their allies the Star Adders and Cloud Cobras to be whittled down assaulting Priori.
-
INN Special Broadcast, Commanding-General's Office
Ecol City, Thorin
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd December 3087
Although Archer Christifori was only acting as Protector of the Star League he still had to fulfill certain duties that the First Lord needed to approve. One such duty was to sign off on the continued strengthening of the Star League Defence Force. Previous First Lords, even those who had supported the Star League Defence Force, had been wary of strengthening the SLDF too much for fear that it could challenge their own armies. Archer Christifori, as Commanding-General, had no such qualms. “Ladies and gentlemen, today I would like to announce that the Star League Council has agreed that the continued strengthening of the Star League Defence Force is in the best interest of all Star League nations. As a result funding has been set aside for two further Regimental Brigades are to be formed within the next five years and two Essex-class Destroyers that previously served with the Star League Defence Force will be refurbished and returned to service. These vessels will strengthen the Star League Protectorate, the Star League Defence Force and further prepare the Inner Sphere from all threats. I thank all of those out there who support the Star League Defence Force and the dream of a peaceful Inner Sphere.†He announced with pride, he knew that future First Lords could rescind his orders however today his orders were in place and the work would begin, funding would be spent, and there was nothing anyone could do to stop that.
Surprise assault
Hoard, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
8th December 3087
In a twin flash of light the WarShips Beijing and Quicksilver Mongoose jumped into the Hoard system via pirate points. Immediately three Clusters of Clan Burrock's Zeta Galaxy disembarked from the WarShips while two aerospace clusters launched against Star Adder and Steel Viper WarShips in the system. The appearance of these additional forces takes the other Clans by complete surprise. As the DropShips approached Hoard the planets Space Defence System turned on the Star Adder vessel Cameron's Flame, a Cameron-class Battle-cruiser, that had been collecting supplies. Caught completely unaware by the powerful weapons buried under the planet's surface the Battle-cruiser is split almost in half by the blast. The Burrock WarShips and fighters then turn on the Steel Viper Snake-in-the-Grass, a Whirlwind-class Destroyer, driving it from the system with continuous attacks.
On the ground the Burrock warriors are joined by several unidentified Mechs, Battle Armour and ProtoMechs which wreck havoc against the Star Adder and Steel Viper ground forces. News of the trouble on Hoard is cut short as the HPG is destroyed in the first day of combat.
Kell Hound Raid
Pasig, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
11th December 3087
The Second Kell Hound Regiment had launched a raid against Pasig in the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone. For the most part it had been a successful raid as they captured a Union C-class DropShip along with a trinary of BattleMechs. Unfortunately during the battle Lt. Colonel Christian Kell had badly injured during a battle with a Jade Falcon Bane his BattleMech damaged beyond recognition. Captain Katrina Allard had taken command of Kell's First Battalion and helped rally the regiment enough to allow it to make an orderly withdrawal. During the final battle Katrina destroyed three Jade Falcon Mechs at the expense of her Archer BattleMech, fortunately she was able to escape back to the DropShip and boost off the world. Back on Arc-Royal she was confirmed as a Major in the Kell Hounds and assigned a Jupiter Assault BattleMech captured on Pasig.
Intelligence Meeting
Clan Snow Raven Watch Offices
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
19th December 3087
Entering the small non-descriptive office Star Colonel Sharon Rosse felt out of place in total a single cluster of Nova Cats were on a world of thousands of Outworlds Alliance and Snow Ravens. They had however been requested to attend on Alpheratz, the Raven Alliance's capitol world, over the course of the last week the Snow Ravens had been attacked on Alldorf, Capra and Valentina to coordinated attacks by the Draconis Combine. The Combine had hit worlds that lacked WarShip protection with multiple house and mercenary regiments.
“Star Colonel Sharon Rosse, welcome to Alpheratz.†Star Colonel Russell of Clan Snow Raven's Watch greeted her indicating for her to take a seat.
“Thank you Star Colonel†Sharon said quietly lowering herself into the chair. Unlike Sharon who was twenty-four and already won her Bloodname Russell was forty-eight and had no chance of winning a Snow Raven Bloodname. It was the differences that defined them, Clan Nova Cat had always respected the older warrior and current Khan Canin Rosse had come through the ranks within the Watch while Clan Snow Raven saw the Watch much as the other Clans did a necessary evil.
“I will get straight to my point. Did the Nova Cats sell the Draconis Combine SM1 Tank Destroyers?†Russell asked directly putting Sharon immediately on the defence.
“To my knowledge no.†Sharon said after several moments of thought “we traded examples to the Snow Ravens, Filtvelt, the Federated Suns and Clan Sea Fox. Why?â€
“The Draconis Combine are fielding SM1 Tank Destroyers at lance strength, each is armed with Extended Long Range Missile Launchers.†Russell said “they have used them extensively against our forces on Alldorf, Capra and Valentina.â€
“The Draconis Combine or any state would not have the resources to produce Clan technology spec vehicles in numbers without support. Support we have not given.†Sharon stated
“Aff, our intelligence reports agree with your own. Clan Sea Fox has a base on Itabiana with they have used to train and trade from. Although they admit to selling SM1 Tank Destroyers to the Draconis Combine they claim they have not helped them modify them or produce further units.â€
“If that is what they claim I would be inclined to believe them. The Sea Fox are out to make a profit, helping someone build their own units is slightly counter productive.â€
“Aff however there is growing evidence.†Russell said placing several pictures down on the table showing pictures of a facility. Beside it were two DropShips even from orbit the Sea Fox emblem was clear on the nose of the craft. “These were taken by a Ghost Bear Watch vessel over Irece, near Itabiana, two weeks ago. They have also been attacked by these SM1 type craft.â€
“They are not of Nova Cat origin nor do the Sea Foxes have our construction specifications.†Sharon said quietly “we will investigate.â€
“You? You have not been struck by these craft, we are preparing a strike against them.â€
“The SM1 is a Nova Cat design. Also we do not have a shared border with the Combine. My unit is designed for this kind of operation.†Sharon said with a wicked smile revealing nothing “thank you for the information.†Russel looked confused but said no more as Sharon raised from her chair.
“That is it? You are going to violate another nations territory and a assault their factory to find out origin of that vehicle.â€
“Neg, not straight away.†Sharon said turning to leave “first I want one.†She said leaving the room returning to her DropShip. Almost immediately the heavily modified Overlord-class DropShip took off heading back to the Nova Cats Invader-class JumpShip. None of the unit's were of Clan origin instead the Nova Cats had modified them for their purposes. The ship carried a total of thirty BattleMechs split into three Binaries and another Binary of Nighthawk PA(L) suits.
The Nova Cats had picked three Mechs and modified them for their purposes the first was the classic Star League Defence Force special operations Mech the Exterminator. The second was another classic Star League design the Exterminator's smaller cousin the Spector. While the third was based on an abandoned Mech they had found on Tortuga codenamed the Liberator, it appeared the design had been abandoned after technical failures, that the Nova Cats had been able to repair. Each Mech had then been modified with classic Star League technologies, the Null Signature System and Chameleon Light Polarization Shield, and with modern Clan weapons. Each Mech was classified Top Secret even within the Nova Cats and were designated Dezgra as none were built for the honourable combat of the Clans. The warriors of the Watch had all known that assignment to this Cluster would not be honourable or safe and their next stop would be Valentina in an effort to capture one of these Combine SM1s.
Virgin Interstellar Christmas Party
Great Hall, Tharkad City
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
25th December 3087
It was a celebration of both the Christian holiday of Christmas and the arrival of the Starliner One vessel to Tharkad home of House Steiner. It was perfect timing this was the vessel's last stop of its journey around the Inner Sphere and they had arrived at the Lyran Capitol system, a world that was always engulfed in a continuous snow storm, just in time for a white Christmas Day.
Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Interstellar Sir Richard Branson X had hired the Grand Hall on Tharkad for all the passengers and as many of the Lyran nobility. As men and women danced their way across the dance hall of the Great Hall Archon Peter Steiner-Davion moved alongside Sir Richard Branson who stood not far from the bar, Peter now into his fifties was still a fit man, his blonde hair was slowly going grey. “A triumphant success Sir Branson, you and your company should be congratulated.†The Archon said holding a glass of whisky, thanks to their guests from Terra it was a bottle from Scotland on Terra, a rarity even for the leader of the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Thank you, Archon Steiner†Branson replied, he was older than Peter his full head of gray hair and gray beard, he wasn't ready to to call the Lyran leader sire so his title would be enough. “It will cost an arm and a leg in repairs unfortunately, two years of constant travel has done a number on the ship.â€
“Was it worth it?†The Archon asked out of honest curiosity
“I believe it was.†Branson answered “we spread the name of our company to every state of the Inner Sphere. I've signed contracts with companies I never knew existed. And the people that started this journey have experienced more in this trip than most people will in their entire lives. They have lived the cultures of the Inner Sphere, they have experienced living in space and the rush of combat in space. It is an experience that I think no-one will forget.â€
“And now they experience the hospitality of Tharkad.â€
“And I thank you for the gracious invite, Archon Steiner.â€
“No thanks required Sir Branson, this journey deserved to be marked with a grand welcome, timed for this day, near perfection." Peter said smiling "just remember Virgin Interstellar are always welcome on Tharkad." He said Sir Branson nodded while Peter was beckoned by his wife to the dance floor "Please enjoy your night, Sir Branson.†Archon Steiner finished joining Duchess Isis Steiner on the dance floor. Adding another experience to the passengers of the Starliner One, dancing with a Successor Lord, something unique that would stay with them forever. For the Starliner One itself the journey would turn back towards Terra as its “cruise†came to an end. The ship would need maintenance at the Titan shipyards which Virgin Interstellar had already booked, the company had also been looking at adding a second ship to their “cruise fleet†which they were still in negotiations with the SLDF.
Regulan Counter Offensive
Helios Minor, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former Free Worlds League
28th December 3087
In an effort to blunt the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth assaults the Regulan Feifs launches an all out assault on Helios Minor. The RFS Kirc Cameron-Jones and RFS Regulus, both Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruisers, supported by eighteen Pocket WarShip type Assault DropShips launch a blistering assault on the MSC Leodgrance and the MSC Paul Marik while the First and Fourth Regulan Hussar Regiments land on Helios Minor attacking the First Free Worlds Legionaries Regiment which was still putting down resistance from the Fifth Regulan Hussars.
Almost as soon as the Hussar regiments land on the world they deploy nearly a dozen Thang-Ta APC vehicles these small fast craft are dispatched to nearly every resistance faction on the planet and throughout the capital city dropping off squads of Regulan Hussar infantry in key points. Behind these forward elements the Regulan Hussar units assault the Legionaries, within the Regulan lines is the Hussar's second new weapon the Ogre Assault Battle Armour larger and more mobile than anything the Legionaries expected to encounter they reel from hit after hit from these new suits and from attacks in their rear areas from resistance cells.
In fourteen hours of heavy combat the First Legionaries are forced on the retreat, out numbers and out fought by the Regulan forces they are forced off the planet however this is not the end of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's woes. As the Legionaries launched from the planet the Regulan WarShips and attending DropShips launched a full our assault on the Marik-Stewart's defending WarShips. The Paul Marik crumbled under the combined fire of the Kirc Cameron-Jones and the Regulus, the Zechetinu II-class Corvette, having no chance against the paired Heavy Cruisers is pounded into scrap its hull useless as it spun away from Helios Minor. While the Leodgrance was hit by two nuclear tipped capital missiles, fired from two Overlord A3 Pocket WarShips, unable to survive a single nuclear capital missile the Eagle-class Frigate was burned from bow-stern by nuclear fire little was left of the battered hull as it split in half and fell into Helios Minor's thick atmosphere.
A second volley of nuclear capital missiles was then fired at the Free Worlds Legionaries, against the WarShips this sort of attack was almost understandable, against retreating ground forces this was a barbaric and unnecessary. More than half of the remaining Legionaries were wiped out before the commander of the RFS Regulus called for a cease fire. The remaining Legionaries retreated from the world with stories of the Regulan assaults, the regiment reduced to a single Battalion of forces was folded into the newly formed Third Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Legionaries.
Hope you enjoyed 3087. I'll be updating the bullet point timeline in the next couple of days for anyone who likes that form of timeline. More to come.
Please leave any questions or comments I'll answer best I can.
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Into 3088
3088
Covert Operation
Valentina, Kaznejoy Prefecture
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
3rd January 3088
Posing as Inner Sphere merchants the Nova Cat's Third Watch Cluster is able to enter Valentina's atmosphere. Almost as soon as they do the DropShip transmits a mayday, the standard Overlord DropShip falls through the atmosphere rapidly disgorging the Third Watch Cluster which immediately goes to ground on the planet's surface.
As the DCMS scramble to assist the downed Overlord the Watch Cluster waited in the shadows taking advantage of their stealth systems. As soon as the Fifth District of Midway Regulars company was in position the “Dezgra†Nova Cat designs struck. Lasers and missiles struck at the unsuspecting Combine Mechs disabling half in the first volley. As the Midway warriors turned to engage the first group another struck from the opposite direction catching them in a deadly crossfire. Under heavy fire the Combine unit missed the Nighthawk Power Armour suits laying in wait for the right moment. As a pair of the Midway SM1 Hovertanks passed Nighthawks jumped onto both units attacking the unsuspecting vehicles. Rapidly the armour crew unable to fend off the multiple Power armour units surrender to the assault.
With the initial company not answering communications the DCMS deploy further forces to the area. Continuous assaults from the Binary of Exterminator Dezgras keep the DCMS force on edge as they struggle to track the Mechs which are continuously disappearing from sensors. In the meantime the Nova Cats had loaded both captured SM1s and begun an orderly evacuation. After less than two hours on the planet's surface the Nova Cat DropShip had taken off again and was escaping from the pursuing Combine forces.
In space the Overlord outran the pursuing fighters rendezvousing with their JumpShip leaving the system before pursuit could catch up with them. Jumping several times ensuring the Combine was not trying to track them down the Watch Cluster analyzed the Combine SM1 design. Clearly based on the Nova Cat's original design this model dubbed Telos was armed with extended-range missiles effectively turning the design from a close quarters Tank Destroyer into a highly mobile missile platform, the Inner Sphere version of the SM1 did however lack the anti-infantry firepower of the Nova Cat design. After transmitting their data to the Snow Ravens via the DropShip's on board HPG Star Colonel Sharon Rosse ordered a course set for Irece, a world on the other side of the Draconis Combine, but also the world which was the site of the plant this SM1 clone had been built.
Terror Attacks
Kerensky Cluster, Pentagon Worlds
Clan Homeworlds
12th January 3088
A series of nuclear and biological explosions rock the Clan Homeworlds of Paxon, Vinton, New Kent, Tranquil, Ironhold, Artreus and Barcella are all hit with Weapons of Mass Destruction causing widespread damage and millions of deaths. Within days a second set of assaults virtually destroys Eden and Circe's fragile biosphere's as a genetic plague runs through both populations like a wild fire. Clan scientists are unable to counter-attack the plague. Within a week the entire population of both worlds were dead or dying, warrior, worker, scientist or merchant it didn't matter as everyone has fallen victim. By order of Brett Andrews WarShips from multiple Clans were deployed to the worlds to set up a quarantine to ensure no-one left the two planets. After three weeks in orbit of both planets it became clear that Clan scientists could not counter-act the plagues ilKhan Brett Andrews ordered the worlds cleaned of life and the plague. Millions of Steel Viper, Wolf and Jade Falcon civilians are killed by the plague and orbital bombardment. The repercussions of the loss of two Pentagon Worlds angers Clansmen everywhere but finding the culprits for releasing the plague eludes the Clans.
Construction Project
University of Thorin, Thorin
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
18th January 3088
The University of Thorin is completed by the Star League Protectorate. Although construction work continues on some finishing touches and some more advanced facilities will take time before they are completed but basic SLDF courses and almost any civilian course were now available at the university. The SLDF opened the facility initially to any member of the Star League Protectorate and of the Isle of Skye region of the Lyran Commonwealth. After initial courses begin and are successful the Star League announces that the second stage of courses will be open for all members of the Inner Sphere friendly to the Star League.
For years Thorin has experienced great improvements, population increases and economic benefits of Star League funding and defence. For the last six years the world has completely lacked LCAF defence forces instead relied on the SLDF, mainly due to the residence of Commanding-General Archer Christifori on the world, this in itself has almost made the world a Star League holding, following the University's opening Thorin's government makes this relationship permanent joining with the Star League Protectorate. The Isle of Skye protest Thorin's choices but do not take any action against the world, at the same time Tharkad questions if the Star League Protectorate is truly in the best interest of the Succession States.
Grand Council Meeting
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
22nd January 3088
Standing in front of the other Khans of the Clan Grand Council ilKhan Brett Andrews looked at them solemnly “My fellow Khans, we have recently suffered much. The damage done to our worlds may never be repaired.†He said recently arrived Clan Wolf Khan Nathan Fetladral sat up straighter his clan had lost many civilians and traders on Circe along with a small scientific outpost. “It appears that the weapons used, and those who used them, originated in the Inner Sphere.†He said angry, more than a couple of Clans equally looked annoyed. “From the evidence gathered by Clan Steel Viper's Watch these weapons originated originally in the Federated Suns but were captured by the pirates of Tortuga in the early 31st Century. These weapons were then transported to the Homeworlds along with several Bondsmen taken from Tortuga by Clan Nova Cat, who in turn used them against the other Clans to weaken them!â€
“False statements every single one!†Khan Canin Rosse shouted raising to his feet in anger. “No warrior ever born on Tortuga has ever returned to the Homeworlds.â€
“The evidence is conclusive†Brett Andrews said quickly suppressing a smirk. “Clan Nova Cat in finding their own home damned the Clans that were left behind, much as the Ghost Bears did.â€
“I Declare a Trial of Refusal to refute these Claims!†Canin Rosse declared he was confident he could defeat the Steel Viper ilKhan.
“Neg, under the powers of the ilKhan, the ilKhan has the right to veto any Trial or vote. I am invoking that right. Instead you will
face a Trial of Abjuration.â€
“You cannot be serious!†Khan Nathan Fetladral now said his own anger boiling “we are the Khans of the Grand Council, we have not been given a vote.â€
“I am exercising War Time Powers of the ilKhan written by Nicholas Kerensky himself for just such a time that the Clan's very existence was threatened."
"There are no such Powers!" Nathan Fetladral shouted angrily his Clan held the Kerensky Bloodheritage for them not to be aware of such powers was ridiculous. "There are such powers, powers I can show you. Even now Clan worlds are threatened from within and without Khan Fetladral, I will decide what is the best course for our Clans. Khan Rosse what forces will you choose for this Trial?â€
“Two Galaxies and Three WarShips.†Canin Rosse said staring down Brett Andrews.
“I believe you only have one WarShip and a single Galaxy at hand Quineg?â€
“Neg, the Blood Oath and Vision Quest moved into orbit last night carrying our Tau Galaxy from Barcella. The all knowing ilKhan who makes unilateral decisions for us all should have been aware of that.†Canin Rosse taunted the Steel Viper ilKhan it was very fortunate that Tau Galaxy had finished its operations on Barcella ahead of schedule. Now for the second phase of the Nova Cat plan... one the Nova Cats would have enacted if Brett Andrews had acted or not.
“And your bid for this trial?â€
“Two Galaxies and Three WarShips.†Canin repeated
“You have no cut-down bid? There is little honour in that Khan Rosse.â€
“There is little honour in your actions either, ilKhan†Canin answered the title ilKhan used almost as if it were a slur. “We have been judged and sentenced by one man, you it is against the principles of the Clans as a result, any force that approaches the Nova Cats will be classed as hostile. You want I Trial? I will give an honourless stavag like you total war.†Canin Rosse declared “remember this day my fellow Khans, and remember where this destructive path started. You turned on the Ghost Bears and now us who will be next?†Canin demanded without waiting for a further answer turning on his heels he marched from the room, saKhan Ajax Drummond following. Brett Andrews stood mouth open with surprise.
“I would like to see this evidence.†Nathan Fetladral demanded bringing the ilKhan's attention on the Wolf Khan.
“You will receive it. My fellow Khans Clan Nova Cat ignores our tradition of a cut down bid. Feel free to attack them at your leisure.†Brett Andrews said almost with a throw away comment.
“Our Leisure!?†A horrified call came from the Coyote table “There should be a bid!†Khan Salas Kufahl demanded.
“Of course there should...†Brett Andrews began as the long deliberations between the remaining Khans began. Khan Nathan Fetladral intentionally drawing out proceedings to ensure the Nova Cat Khans could return to their forces without interference. The Inner Sphere Clans had agreed to defend each other the best they could, they had failed when the Ghost Bears and Snow Ravens had been driven out Nathan Fetladral intended on ensuring the Nova Cats had the best chance of defending themselves cutting down their opponents strength would help especially since now only Clan's Jade Falcon, Wolf and Hell's Horses remained of the “Invader†Clans. The Sea Foxes and Snow Ravens technically remained part of the council but neither had territory or forces in the Homeworlds or had even bothered to attend today, Kerensky's Grand Council had fallen from grace the only question was how many Clans it took with it.
Delta Galaxy Command Base
Nova Cat Enclave, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
22nd January 3088
“It seems that the ilKhan has convinced at least some of the other Clans to support him. We have forces of Clan Steel Viper, Fire Mandrill, Goliath Scorpion and surprisingly Coyote all approaching from various vectors.†Ajax Drummond said as the senior Nova Cats of Delta Galaxy met with the Khan and saKhan. Canin Rosse actually smiled shocking those around the table “my Khan between them they have five Galaxies of troops and we are surrounded.â€
“Aff, we are and I believe there are WarShips moving in on our own as we speak also.†Canin said his smile disappearing briefly “my fellow Nova Cats they appear to wish us dead. This is not an abjuration but an attempt at annihilation. They cannot defeat these nascent Burrocks on Priori or now on Hoard so they turn on us thinking we are weak. Our listening post on Barcella confirmed that as soon as we left the Grand Council†he said looking to Ajax “elements of Clans Steel Viper, Cobra and Star Adder landed near our enclaves and seized them. Unfortunately all they found were empty shells of buildings you people did a fantastic job Ajax.â€
“They did as they were directed.†the saKhan answered
“And now we find ourselves attacked by our fellow Clans again on trumped up charges Nathan Fetladral seems to have slowed their progress but now they arise against us.†Canin said “however, there is an opening here.†He said pointing towards Clan Coyote's forces “Salas Kufahl does not want us dead, but I do believe he sees the writing on the wall and believes if he does not join with the Snakes his Clan will be targeted next. We will hit the Coyote lines I have a feeling that they will put up minimal resistance. From there we will push through to Tau Galaxy and the DropShips which will be beginning landings soon.â€
“It is horrific what they are doing here†Star Colonel Wrecken Rosse of the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster stated, they break every rule the Clans ever held dear. He said each of them had been shocked to hear of how the Grand Council had gone how Brett Andrews held complete control and completely ignored Clan tradition.
“Aff, they have fallen further than even the Inner Sphere†Star Colonel Grayson said quietly, his Khan and father Canin Rosse simply nodded. He was surprised that Brett Andrews had not discovered Grayson or Sonja's existence or there connection to him 'the Watch must have been doing their jobs well' he thought. He also could not stop thinking that today he would enter combat for the first time with both of them, as both Sonja and Grayson had accompanied Delta Galaxy to the Homeworlds Grayson commanding the 450th Assault Cluster while Sonja fought as a Star Commander of the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster.
“Indeed the so called Invader Clans appear to have retained more honour than any of these dogs.†Another said
“How much honour they have does not matter, how many BattleMechs and Elementals they have does.†Ajax Drummond said “luckily we should have air superiority unless the WarShips have to divert.†He commented
“Aff†Canin confirmed, “brief your units we will be ignoring Zellbrigen. All units are to remain in close proximity to each other we will not be stopping.†the Khan said all the others nodded moving away “Cameron remain.†He said one of the officers remained “I have a special job for the Second Watch.†He said because the Forty-fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers Cluster was still on New Avalon Canin had taken not only his own Watch Keshik Cluster but also the Second Watch, it's first deployment off Tortuga since its formation. The unit was full of Inner Sphere OmniMechs and BattleMechs and would completely throw off their enemy.
“Sir†Cameron said stopping as the others filed out “you think your unit is ready for an independent operation?â€
“Aff, my Khan†Cameron confirmed
“Good, this job is perfect for your unit but entails high risk.â€
“My warriors are at the end of their careers, my Khan, we would relish a high risk operation.â€
“You do your Clan a great honour.†Canin Rosse said Cameron nodded “this is what I want you to do.â€
Trial of Abjuration
Plains of Novy Terra, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
22nd January 3088
The Nova Cat's Delta Galaxy marched from the Nova Cat enclave surrounding three large transport vehicles which contained all of the Nova Cat's Genetic Repository Data. As the Nova Cats moved forward aerospace fighters strafed the Nova Cats before being engaged by the Nova Cat's own aerospace forces. Heading directly towards the Clan Coyote forces the two Clans were soon heavily engaged in combat the Coyotes however were putting up very little resistance instead they were almost moving aside. As Tau Galaxy moved in behind the Coyotes almost the entire Coyote line crumbled costing the Coyotes nearly an entire Cluster of warriors in a vicious exchange. The Second Watch Cluster chose this moment to break off heading directly for the Clan Steel Viper force and ilKhan Brett Andrews. Khan Canin Rosse's orders were simple – eliminate ilKhan Brett Andrews – it was a headhunter attack nothing more nothing less. The ilKhan's Keshik stood deep in the Steel Viper lines but Canin knew that he'd feel threatened by the incoming Nova Cat Cluster fielding Inner Sphere designs upgraded with Clan technology, Brett Andrews couldn't look at those Mechs and know exactly what he was fighting. As the Nova Cats pushed forward Khan Canin Rosse engaged Mech after Mech, beside him was his son and daughter as they held the centre of the Nova Cat's line.
“Khan, it is time†Ajax Drummond transmitted his Huntsman OmniMech was off to the side of the Khan's Dragon Cat as they broke through the Coyote lines and began heading towards the grounded DropShips.
“Neg, we can all get out of this.†Canin Rosse replied the arrival of Tau Galaxy and the retreat of the Coyotes had given them an opening.
“Not in time sir†Ajax said “by the time you load the transports and our forces we will be surrounded.â€
“This is not your job it is mine. I will command Tau Galaxy's charge.â€
“Negative!†Ajax said already turning his Mech back towards the enemy “this is my job, my unit.†He said heading back through the Nova Cat lines towards the massing Clans. Clan Fire Mandrill was the most organized and closest to the Nova Cats and Tau Galaxy was already in motion towards them.
“Warriors of Tau Galaxy your efforts are an honour to our Clan.†Canin Rosse transmitted as he saw the last of the Second Watch Cluster's Mechs fall in combat “your sacrifices will not be forgotten.†He said as Delta Galaxy reached the DropShips.
“Sir, request permission to join Tau Galaxy.†Grayson said turning his Blood Asp Assault OmniMech.
“Neg†Canin denied as Tau Galaxy made contact with the Fire Mandrill's forces “you can however provide cover fire and be Delta Galaxy's rearguard.†He said appeasing at least some of his wishes. “Delta Galaxy begin loading operations.†He ordered watching the battle unfold in front of them between Tau Galaxy and the Fire Mandrills as the Goliath Scorpions also moved into firing range. Dozens of Fire Mandrills had fallen as had several Nova Cats of Tau Galaxy, with the Goliath Scorpions now also engaged in the fighting Tau Galaxy was under increasing amounts of fighting.
Canin Rosse scanned the mounting enemies against Tau Galaxy seeing the ilKhan's Mech although damaged was still standing. “ilKhan you bring great dishonour to the warriors you have commanded today.â€
“There is no greater honour than victory.†Brett Andrews replied
“I hope we meet again some day.†Canin said piloting his Mech aboard the DropShip.
“You could stay and fight.â€
“And you could end this trial.â€
“I do not make deals with traitors.â€
“Neither do I.†Canin replied as the doors of the DropShip began to close.
“Think about it Khan Rosse, the WarShip Perigrad Zalman is moving to engage the Nova Cat WarShips in orbit. You will be consigning your forces to cold deaths in space if you take off.†Brett Andrews taunted. Canin Rosse shut off the communication system as he moved his Mech to its berth securing his OmniMech as the DropShip began to take off. Tau Galaxy was still fighting against the Goliath Scorpions and Fire Mandrills even as the DropShips began to lift off the surface the warriors of Tau Galaxy continued to fight and fall under enemy guns.
Orbital Battle
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
22nd January 3088
As the Nova Cat DropShips rose from the surface word passed that Tau Galaxy's last stand had ended with the last Nova Cat Mech falling. The Clans had their pound of flesh six dead clusters of Nova Cat's worth, Tau Galaxy had fallen but they had taken five Clusters with them. In orbit the DropShips were met by the Severn Lervoux, an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, and two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, the Blood Oath and Vision Quest. Akin to the battle on the surface however the other Clans were moving in from all sides. Two Fire Mandrill Lola III-class Destroyers, the Rage and the Anger, were the closest vessels to the Nova Cats.
As the WarShips and DropShips broke orbit the DropShips slipped behind the WarShips using their bulk as shields. Between them the Naval Autocannons, Naval Lasers and Particle Cannons mounted on the three vessels ravaged the two smaller WarShips destroying the Anger and crippling the Rage. Without stopping the Nova Cat flotilla continued forward however their bid to escape was blocked by the Perigrad Zalman, Clan Steel Viper's Leviathan Prime-class Battleship.
The vessel all on itself outgunned the Nova Cats but the ship was supported by hundreds of fighters and DropShips. Star Admiral Anders McKenna intentionally set a course past the forward section of the Leviathan trying to avoid its broadside at all costs at the same time he threw everything he had at the incoming Steel Viper vessel over one hundred Aerospace fighters and the firepower of all three WarShips. The Perigrad Zalman soaked up everything it was thrown at it and returned fire the Blood Oath disappeared in a ball of flame as the Aegis-class vessel's armour was overwhelmed and penetrated by multiple weapons. The Vision Quest and Severn Lervoux continued to fire on the Perigrad Zalman however as the massive vessel continued to close hope of victory or continued to fade.
Fortunately luck seemed to favour the Nova Cats. In their quest to bring the Perigrad Zalman's broadside on target the Steel Viper crew had not noticed the Leviathan Prime drifting within Strana Mechty's gravity well. As the Nova Cats continued to accelerate into open space the Perigrad Zalman was forced to divert more of its thrust into escaping the planet's gravity giving the Nova Cat's a much needed lead over the massive Battleship which was scarred by by no means out of the fight.
Conflict zone
Former Free Worlds League
24th January 3088
The Regulan Fiefs war with the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth turns into an all out conflict zone as the Oriente Protectorate joins the battle. With Oriente Hussar Regiments land on the Regulan worlds of Tiber and Avior while the Ducal Guards land on the independent world of Elektrougli absorbing it. The Marik-Stewart Commonwealth continues to put the Regulan Fiefs under pressure landing forces on Harmony, at almost every turn line forces of the Regulan Fiefs have all but disappeared instead militia and mercenary forces are found and put up little fight.
On the twenty-sixth the lack of Regulan forces becomes apparent as all six Regulan Hussar regiments are seen in action on the worlds of Norfolk, Newcastle and the important world of Wallis. On Wallis defending the Ronin Incorporated plant the First Marik Militia and the Second Stewart Home Guard Regiments. Against them the Second and Third Regulan Hussar Regiments supported by the WarShip RFS Titus Cameron-Jones and the RFS Lester Cameron-Jones, two Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruisers, battling across the world for three weeks the Regulans liberate the world. While the Regulans threaten the former Free Worlds League's capital Atreus and the shipyards at Ionus with these attacks both the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and the Oriente Protectorate threaten Regulus and with it the entire Regulan Fiefs.
Clan Nova Cat evacuation
Nadir Jump Point, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
30th January 3088
For all the Leviathan Prime's strengths acceleration was not one of them. Even the Aegis-class Vision Quest was able to keep ahead of the ponderous Battleship during their eight day long burn to escape from Strana Mechty.
As the Nova Cat approached the Nadir jump point the Severn Lervoux used its on-board HPG to call in the Clan's JumpShips which were waiting outside the system safe from there enemies. As the transports jumped in so too did the WarShips King Viper and Viper's Legacy, both Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruisers. The Vision Quest moved into position between the two Steel Viper craft and the DropShips. Supported by long range fire from the Severn Lervoux and from what remained of the aerospace fighters the Aegis-class vessel took capital missile strike after capital missile strike as the crew commanded by Star Commodore Arden Bravos intentionally moved their ship into the line of fire ensuring Delta Galaxy could escape.
Once the ground forces had safely evacuated, Khan Canin Rosse included Star Admiral Anders McKenna ordered the Vision Quest to jump hoping to save the Heavy Cruiser. The ship's K-F Drive fired and the ship vanished in a flash of light. The Severn Lervoux, flagship of Clan Nova Cat, became the sole target of the Steel Viper's fire causing heavy damage to the Battle-cruiser before it too escaped the Strana Mechty system. It was not a victory, they had not overturned the Trial of Abjuration, but then that had never been the plan. Instead Clan Nova Cat would survive away from the Homeworlds as other Clans would.
In the uncharted Periphery the Vision Quest made several jumps with Delta Galaxy and the Severn Lervoux before the damage caused to her hull became too much. With superstructure cracks appearing all along the Heavy Cruiser's K-F Core and remaining hull plate the decision was taken to abandon the ship. The Nova Cats salvaged what they could from the craft and evacuated the crew before leaving the hull to spin away into deep space, instead of wasting weapons on the craft they allowed it to drift away from any star and complete its final journey alone in the vasts of space.
With the final victim of the Trial of Abjuration laid to rest the remains of Delta Galaxy and their last remaining WarShip escort continued on towards the Nova Cat's Den and their Clan's future. Steel Viper forces attempted to track them down but the Nova Cats were long gone and the trouble in the homeworlds was only continuing to mount.
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Throne Room, Forbidden Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
1st February 3088
Sitting above the others Chancellor Naomi Centrella stared at the Intelligence Report and seethed “who the hell does he think he is?†She demanded in front of her advisers which included Dao-Shen Centrella her eldest child and legitimate heir.
“Prince Cameron St. Jamis-Liao claims to be the son of Kali Liao†Hadjo Doru her most senior military adviser said
“Impossible! That family is dead, I saw to it! The Centrella family rule the Capellan Confederation.†She stated “prepare an assault against Highspire, I want the world sterilized.â€
“Sterilized?†Jiang-jun Bradly Cooper asked carefully
“Yes, take your navy to Highspire wipe it of life†Naomi ordered Cooper nodded
“Mother perhaps a Maskirovka attack would be more effective, if we strike at the world this imposter could slip away.†Dao-shen suggested
“No I want that hive of distrust destroyed.†She commanded “send in our WarShips clean Highspire of life.†This time no-one disagreed with the Capellan Chancellor.
MRBC Headquarters Lobby
Galatea, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
5th February 3088
“You sure this is a good idea boss? We set down routs in the Confederation doing so here maybe isn't the best move.†Angle Bodez warned Elizabeth McCarron as they moved towards the doors.
“The MRBC has helped repair all our damage from Haddings and given us leads on where we can find their runners. All they want as payment is our service in defence of the MRBC holdings on Galatea.†Elizabeth replied “we need facilities to maintain our weapons and train replacement warriors and officers. The ground that the MRBC are willing to GIVE us is well worth our time. We could raise the First to Regiment size by the time your contract is over.â€
“Hopefully Bowie gives us some discount for defending their plant on Wyatt, not that I expect much trouble, the Mariks are too busy with the Regulans.â€
“Yes indeed but remember keep eyes out for unexpected.â€
“We will boss, try not to get too comfortable though, this isn't home.†He said quietly
“No but it will do for now†Elizabeth said as they stepped out into the Galatean sun.
Gabhardt's Carabineers Raid
New Aega, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
13th February 3088
“We got incoming, the Nova Cats are going nuts!†Major Vic Kantov, commander of the Gabhardt's Carabineers First Battalion, shouted as the left flank was hit by a group of SM1 Tank Destroyers supported by missile fire from Shoden Assault Vehicles. “There isn't even anything on this rock. We're holding at the moment but we're taking a lot of damage.â€
“Thank the Taurians†Colonel Alexis Gabhardt muttered “all units the mission is bust begin a retreat back to the DropShips.†She ordered but even she could see they were in trouble. At least two Nova Cat second-line clusters were moving in from opposite directions already Second Battalion was surrounded and cut off from the unit.
“Colonel, the Nova Cats just got aerospace support, we're being overwhelmed†Captain Franz “Catnip†Tucker reported as the Carabineers aerospace fighters came under attack from Nova Cat aerospace fighters. Up until now the two squadrons of mercenary fighters had dominated the sky.
“No†Alexis whispered turning her Mech to the right tracking a Nova Cat Joust Battle Tank with her guns. Up until now they had faced off against armour and light Mech forces now it appeared the Nova Cat reinforcements were arriving.
“Continue the retreat, let's hope the JumpShip captain hasn't done a runner.†Alexis muttered the DropShips were insight but they were in trouble. Alexis had only one option but she didn't want to use it as Jason Fuller's BattleMech fell under heavy fire she switched her communication gear over to a general use frequency. “Nova Cat commander we were unaware that you held sway on this world.â€
“Dezgra†was the one word reply through the speakers
“Shit†Alexis said leveling her weapons on a Nova Cat BattleMech tearing it apart “continue the retreat hold together Carabineers we're nearly there.†She said just as Nova Cat fighters flew over the unit's DropShips bombs strapped to the fighters dropped all over the vessels. Their Excalibur-class DropShip Defiance exploded in a massive ball of flame.
“There going for the DropShips, we can't hold them.†Catnip reported
“A little late, Catnip, hold them back the best you can.†Alexis answered “Catnip you hear me? Hold them back we'll rendezvous with you in orbit. Catnip?â€
“Nova Cat Batu in my six, can't shake him, oh he...†he said as Catnip's Lucifer exploded above the unit spiraling to the ground impacting near the DropShips. Alexis Gabhardt continued to fight but the Nova Cats were all around them the mercenaries had no hope of escape they had violated the Nova Cat's territory and that they would not forgive or forget. The Cabhardt's Carabineers final stand on New Aega took most of the Sixth and Fifth Nova Cat Regulars Clusters with them severely damaging both formatins.
Inter Clan Fighting, Svoboda Zemylya
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
21st February 3088
The capital of the Clan Homeworlds Strana Mechty is consumed with fighting as the Society reveals a work of fiction named the Betray of Ideals. This document details that the not-named Clan was in fact set-up by ilKhan Nicholas Kerensky, that the Not-named were not to blame for the use of nuclear weapons at Dhera Dun and that the Trial of Annihilation failed with the Not-named in fact surviving. The message is played continuously throughout the Clan Capital, the Ebon Keshik is overwhelmed by nearly contentious riots. The Society also claim to have used Nicholas Kerensky's bloodline to create their first batch of warriors at the blessing of Clan Wolf, with the Betrayal of Ideals in people's minds the population of the world turn against Clan Wolf's civilians and warriors.
At the Grand Council ilKhan Brett Andrews claims it shows the true taint of the Wolves although he does not directly order an assault against the Wolves within hours of the ilKhan's speech Clan Wolf's Bloodchapels are under direct assault from three separate Clans. With Clan Wolf's Khan Nathan Fetladral fighting with his people ilKhan Brett Andrews claims that this is proof Clan Wolf is corrupt and that any Clan that defeats Nathan Fetladral's defence will be eligible to claim the Kerensky Bloodhouse for their own. This only brings further assaults on the Wolves defenders the Wolves are constantly retreating with several DropShips escaping carrying three of the Wolf Clusters and Khan Nathan Fetladral and the genetic histories of Nicholas and Andrey Kerensky. Star Colonel Ramil Kerensky commander of Clan Wolf's Watch announces to the other Clans that if they want the Kerensky Bloodhouse they will have to kill him first his Dire Wolf OmniMech standing in front of the Kerensky Bloodchapel fighting anyone who approaches. As the remaining Wolves of the Forty-third Wolf Assault Cluster fall Ramil Kerensky broadcast one last time declaring that if the Wolves could not have the heritages of the Founder no-one would. As his OmniMech fell charges throughout the Kerensky Bloodhouse explode consuming the entire chapel and the immediate area killing dozens of Clan Warriors. From orbit the Dire Wolf, a Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser, fought its way to a pirate point before jumping clear of the system the Wolf Khan and the Kerensky Blood heritages secure.
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Throne Room, Forbidden Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
2nd March 3088
“They did what!†Chancellor Naomi Centrella thundered staring at Hadji Doru who stood with two aides from the Maskirovka.
“As soon as the CCSS Highspire, CCSS Talon Zhan and CCSS Hadji Doru entered the Highspire system they were assaulted by aerospace fighters.†Hadji Doru explained “Several of the aerospace fghters were carrying nuclear ordinance. The Highspire was hit by three nuclear warheads.â€
“That ship had its own anti-missile defencesâ€
“They.... malfunctioned...â€
“Malfunctioned!†Naomi screamed “sabotage?â€
“We are investigating.â€
“Investigate harder†the Chancellor demanded “I thought the use of the CCSS Highspire was supposed to be symbolic.â€
“It was...†Hadji Doru confirmed the Tikonov-class Carrier was one of the ships the Capellans were truly proud of, the Confederation's small navy had only three such craft, now they were one less. “There was one other thing...†Hadji Doru said quietly turning to one of his two aides turning he held a box. “This was delivered for you from Highspire.†Naomi's face turned from anger to fear “we have checked it for all known types of biological and chemical type of weapon it is clean.â€
“What about the unknown types?â€
“Then we are all already exposed.†He pointed out Naomi nodded for him to bring it forward as he did he opened the box. “Oh my...†Hadji exclaimed inside the box was a grown man's left hand cleanly severed from the arm just above the wrist.
“Test it†Naomi said she could guess the result already a very clear message of Cameron St Jamis-Liao's intent for their future communications. “Prepare further plans for insertion into the Highspire system.â€
“Yes, Chancellor†Hadji Doru replied.
Commanding-General's Office, The Fort
Ecol City, Thorin
Star League Protectorate
8th March 3088
It was a stormy day on Thorin when Commanding-General Archer Christifori's door knocked “Enter†he called. Moments later a man in his early fifties wearing an SLDF uniform entered. On his uniform was a General's insignia and ComStar's tailed twin circle symbol. “General McGillaray welcome to Thorin.â€
“Thank you sir, it looks like the world is benefiting from Star League membership.â€
“Yes, it has expanded much since the rebirth of the Star League.â€
“Sir, can I ask am I being summoned by the Protector of the Star League or my Commanding-General?†McGillaray asked formally remaining at attention.
“Does it make a difference?â€
“Perhaps. I wonder if as you are both if the lines have blurred slightly?â€
“Blurred, spit it out General.†Archer snapped annoyed that McGillaray would challenge his integrity.
“Sir, since you assumed the dual positions of Protector and Commanding-General you have expanded the SLDF, increased the defences and brought further planets into the League. This world included, the world of your birth has experienced the highest growth since the original Star League.â€
“I have simply continued to support the programs began by previous First Lords and moved to expand the Protectorate based on what the advisory Council has said.â€
“Very well, just be aware sir, just remember the man who tries to hold onto too many hats loses them all.†Archer wasn't sure if Peter McGillaray had just threatened him or if it was as he said a reminder.
“General McGillaray, perhaps we can get down to our duties?†McGillaray nodded “the Taurian Concordat has requested Star League Defence Force assistance.
“Seriously?†McGillaray asked the Taurian Concordat's history with the Star League Defence Force in both its original and reborn incarnations was checkered to say the least.
“Yes and I believe that your unit is the perfect one for the job. To this date the First Royal ComGuard Regimental Brigade has never been deployed off of Terra I think it is high-time you got a chance to prove your units capabilities.â€
“Sir, I'm unsure that my unit is best suited for such a duty.â€
“Why?†Archer asked wondering if the former ComStar Precentor would ever take the hint and accept he was talking to a superior. Archer had no idea how ComStar ever functioned if their Division commanders questioned everything.
“Perhaps you are unaware of the Tirpitz Affair in 2979 elements of the Avenging Angels, which my unit descends from, were involved in stopping a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser from falling into the Taurians hands.â€
“I am aware of that event, however, your unit has changed a lot from those days General and has less of the Star League Defence Force trappings of other units.†McGillaray gave him a slightly questioning look “you still wear the ComStar insignia on your uniform. And your unit was involved in the battle of Tukayyid. Since the Taurians have requested your assistance following a run in with Clan Nova Cat I think they will welcome your expertise?â€
“Expertise that is thirty years out of date.â€
“More than many other units. I will also be deploying the SLS Truce of Tukayyid with your unit General, they will fall under your command for the duration of the mission. Any problems?â€
“No sir, the Truce is a former ComStar vessel with a proven record. She will be welcomed to our unit.â€
“Good, you leave for Taurian space immediately the Truce of Tukayyid will meet you at the jump point. I've already communicated with Terra. Your unit will rendezvous with you in Davion space.â€
“Understood sir we will do our best.†the General agreed saluting.
“I'm sure you will, Good Hunting†Archer said confidently returning McGillaray's salute.
Clan Grand Council
Katayusha, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
18th March 3088
The fighting on Strana Mechty had subsided since the abjuration of Clan Wolf. For the most part the peoples of the Clans had accepted that Clan Wolf was tainted beyond redemption and had continued to accept ilKhan Brett Andrews rule. The Betrayal of Ideals continued to be broadcast occasionally however the Clan's had put together facts of their own that proved the Not-named Clan were at fault for their annihilation and that the Clan did not survive their final trial which many were willing to accept.
With a quieter situation the Khans convened on Strana Mechty a new face sat at the Star Adder table a youthful man compared to the aged one of Stanislov N'Buta. “And who have we here?†ilKhan Brett Andrews asked looking at Star Adder table saKhan Dante Truscott remained and stood up.
“ilKhan, this is Clan Star Adder's new Khan, Hannibal Banabek†he said sitting back down as the younger man stood up.
“My fellow Khans, I regret to inform you that Stanislov N'Buta fell in battle against enemy forces on the world of Priori.†He began “Stanislov N'Buta's actions helped Clan Star Adder secure large portions of Priori. I can also confirm that the Prinz Eugen has been destroyed in combat with Star Adder and Cloud Cobra assault squadrons.†He announced bringing smiles from around the table. “We have also reformed our Gamma Galaxy and begun to activate two WarShips from an abandoned Wolf Cache.â€
“Without permission of this Council†Khan Salas Kufahl pointed out.
“A minor oversight I am sure this council would have authorized.†ilKhan Brett Andrews said “the Star Adders are the Clans primary force in engaging enemy threats. And I do not believe we need to hold up the new Star Adder Khan any longer.†He said standing up moving from his position. The other Khans moved out slowly Dante Truscott turned to his new Khan.
“You did not mention the fighting on Hoard is out of control or we have lost contact with Sheridan and there is fighting on Tathis.â€
“No I did not, and neither will you or I will find a new saKhan.†Hannible Banacek said coldly leading the saKhan from the room.
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby Expansion
Former Free Worlds League
24th March 3088
In response to the increase fighting between the various Free Worlds League states and the continued aggressive Regulan Fiefs the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby takes in thirteen worlds between their border and the Regulan Fiefs. The vast majority of these worlds join the Duchy without issue however the worlds of Loongana and Tormentine resist the local militias fighting to keep the independence they had gained when the Free Worlds League broke up. With these worlds in critical positions to block Tamarind expansion the First and Fourth Tamarind Militia Regiments were deployed to the worlds to put down these armed forces and bring them under Tamarind control.
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Inter Free Worlds Fighting
Bowang, Independent World
Former Free Worlds League
8th April 3088
Following significant moves by the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby in taking in over a dozen independent worlds of the Former Free Worlds League. Regulan Fiefs representatives approach Duchy ambassadors to the world of Bowang.
In the years of an united Free Worlds League Bowang had been an intermediary world used as neutral ground by the states of the FWL to make trade agreements and to sort out disagreements. With the League fractured Bowang was one one those worlds that had benefited immensely, international trading was at an all time high as was negotiations between the states. The world boasted a defence force of three Mercenary Regiments which Bowang paid exceptionally well they had also build recharge stations at both Zenith and Nadir points, an unheard of achievement for a system that had no ties to larger nations.
On Bowang the Regulan Fiefs representatives inform their Tamarind-Abby counterparts that the Regulan Fiefs had brought online two new Regulus-class Frigates and had the ground troops to back up a sustained campaign. They went on to inform the counterparts that should the Duchy's expansion continue they would face war with the Regulan Fiefs. The Tamarind-Abby representatives do not take kindly to this threat and a fight breaks out between the two factions. Although only using small arms weapons the two Former Free Worlds League nations engage each other over three full city blocks before Bowang security forces, and their mercenary back-up, put down the fighting.
Three days later in a transmission that is broadcast across the former-Free Worlds League and beyond the government of Bowang announce the foundation of the Bowang Free Trade Sphere, which encompasses the worlds of Bowang, Ashburton, Chalouba, Tchamba, Wolof and Valil'yevskiy. In a formalization of an agreement Bowang had held with its immediate neighbours since the fall of the united Free Worlds League.
Each of the systems of the Bowang Free Trade Sphere would hold a Free Trade agreement with each other charging the other no additional import taxes, they would also form a mutual defence pact in response to aggression from both neighbouring states and beyond but the worlds would run themselves as independent members of the Sphere. The Bowang governments also commits to allowing their world to remain a neutral trading and negotiation world as it has served for decades.
Immediately throughout the former-Free Worlds League the Rim Commonality, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, Oriente Protectorate and Rousset-Marik Alliance all recognize this new nation. Captain-General Corrine Marik, of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, states that she hopes the formation of this new nation can point the other Former-Free Worlds League nations in the direction needed to reform a united House Marik. By the end of April both the Regulan Fiefs and Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey have recognized this new nation as have the Star League Defence Force, Clan Sea Fox (which goes as far to open a trade post/Embassy on Bowang) and the Lyran Commonwealth.
Office of the Khan
Hamarr, Sudeten
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
12th April 3088
An elderly man wearing a plain Jade Falcon uniform without rank insignia or unit patch entered Khan Diana Pryde's office on Sudeten. He approached the desk silently stopping about a metre from the table remaining silent until the Khan rose to her feet. “Star Colonel Mark, an unexpected visit. You have news of the Homeworlds Quiaff?â€
“Aff, my Khan, reports from the Homeworlds are bleak the ilKhan has lost all control over the situation with the Society.†He said naming the mysterious organization which seemed to be leading the efforts against the Clans. The Jade Falcons were in a unique position over the other Clans after gaining much information on the Society from the world of Etainne's Sanctuary in the Periphery. The rogue scientist had been more than a little involved with the group that now terrorized several of the Clan Homeworlds. It was information Diana Pryde had been tempted to share with the Grand Council however given the ilKhan's current attitude towards her Clan and the others he deemed “the invaders†she had chosen to retain the information. As the Khan mused over the Society knowledge Mark continued “He has failed to mobilize other Clans to assist the Star Adders and Cloud Cobras. According to our intelligence assets there is fighting now on more than a dozen worlds. Further hampering the Clans HPG communications has been completely lost with at least four worlds the last reports to leave those worlds state that there has been nuclear detonations on each of these planet, which detonated at almost exactly the same time when translated to standard time, so we can assume the HPGs have likely been destroyed.â€
“Have all these years taught you never to assume Star Colonel, Quiaff?â€
“Neg, the Watch was created to make assumptions my Khan†he corrected her curtly, he was almost twenty years Diana's senior and would soon be reaching his sixtieth birthday, a nearly unheard of accomplishment for a Jade Falcon warrior, but then he was just a member of the Watch.
“Has Ironhold been affected?†The Khan asked already knowing that if it had then she would have been notified.
“As per our last reports, no.†He confirmed Diana was glad, since the Wolf Clan's abjuration by the ilKhan's order Diana had ordered all Jade Falcon assets to retreat to Ironhold, the world served as the Jade Falcon's defacto capital in the Homeworlds, the one world they continued to hold exclusively.
“Good, order Galaxy Commander Mattlov to execute CASE ORANGE, she is to prioritize her military forces withdrawal followed by any piece of equipment and personnel she deems necessary.†Diana said quietly “what about the Peregrines?â€
“Both are proceeding well for activation, I'm unsure how useful they will be however, the class was seen as a failure in the Golden Century let alone now?â€
“True, but an additional WarShips can never hurt, there were among our Clan's first accomplishments I wish to see them preserved.†Mark nodded at her quick correction on his beliefs, Diana cared little if he agreed or not, she was Khan only her death would change her demands. “And watch your contractions Star Colonel it is unbecoming, in the presence of your Khan, even for a member of the Watch. Quiaff?â€
“Aff, my apologies.â€
“Have you any further reports for my attention?â€
“Only that the Hell's Horses are preparing to receive the first delivery of their three Yardships from the Snow Ravens. Nothing too extravagant, but it should provide them with some construction and maintenance capabilities at least until their Shipyard is finished.â€
“Which is still how far away?â€
“Possibly a decade knowing the Horses and their unpredictable nature.†Diana Pryde simply nodded her agreement unlike the Jade Falcons who had a fully operational shipyard in the Dark Nebula the Hell's Horses had inherited many useless worlds, although if the rumours about the Stars End system were correct perhaps they would have a surprise or two in the future. “Our sources state the Nova Cats continue to hold open one shipyard repair bay vacant, we believe for the Severn Lervoux although we have lost contact with the Battle-cruiser in deep space.â€
“The Nova Cats must still be in contact, we know they abandoned the Vision Quest in deep space but, there has been not even a hint that Khan Rosse had also been lost. More the pity for the rest of us.â€
“It also appears the Nova Cats, Sea Foxes and Snow Ravens are possibly preparing to construct new WarShip classes.â€
“Interesting anything of note?â€
“Snow Ravens a Heavy Destroyer or Light Cruiser, Sea Fox also it appears a new Destroyer or transport craft and the Nova Cat's possibly a Corvette type vessel. The Ghost Bears have been testing a new OmniMech based on Clan Mongoose' Lightning Claw design.â€
“An interesting path to take. Keep me apprised of the situation on Ironhold Star Colonel, should things change I would like to know immediately Quiaff?â€
“Aff Khan Pryde it will be done.†He replied saluting before crisply marching from the officer leaving his Khan to her thoughts.
Starliner One
Nadir Jump Point, Terra system
Star League Protectorate
21st April 3088
As the Starliner One shimmered into the Terran system completing its final Jump on its cruise of the Inner Sphere a massive display of coordinated weapons fire was set off all around the modified WarShip. Although by no means dangerous for the ship or its crew it did present a spectacular display for the passengers and crew from any vantage point on the vessel.
On a pre-planned course the Starliner One moved gracefully through the display towards Terra itself. As it cleared the display the vessel was met by three Lola-class Destroyers which provided close escort for the vessel despite being in a completely secure system. Although these ships looked like any other Lola-class vessel they were in fact the core of a new Terra defence fleet. Found in Sol's Kuiper Belt each of these ships was a fully operational M5 “CASPER†Drone WarShip were completely controlled by their AI “Brains†and coordinated by the newly completed M-9 “PAVISE†Battle-station which guarded the distant Titan shipyards.
Although today was all about the celebration of the Starliner One's success, the first truly civilianized WarShip had completed a tour of almost the entire Inner Sphere carefully avoiding Clan held space and the warring former Free Worlds League its passengers had seen so many different sights and cultures that their lives would be changed forever. Behind this public celebration was a private victory for Governor of Terra Gavin Dow and the Star League's Naval Command every news cast in the Inner Sphere would be beaming images of the Starliner One returning to Terra under the escort of three Lola-class Destroyers. Careful analysis of the images would tell the Intelligence Agencies of the Inner Sphere that Terra was well on its way to restoring the defences it once held during the height of the Star League-era a clear warning to them all that Terra and its Protectorate were here to stay a clear indication of what the people of Terra wanted and what the Succession Lords feared.
For Virgin Global and Interstellar CEO Sir Richard Branson X the Starliner One's successes had meant his company could move from strength to strength the Star League WarShips escorting his vessel only highlighted its success in transiting the Inner Sphere in his eyes and the public attention the Cruise-liner rightfully deserved. Already he was planning the vessel's second cruise which would take place after an extended period of maintenance and there was plans for a second vessel to join the Virgin Interstellar Cruise-liner fleet.
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Nice. Love that last bit. :D
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Nice. Love that last bit. :D
Why am I not surprised that you are the one to comment on the return of Caspers as being nice? :D
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Nice. Love that last bit. :D
Why am I not surprised that you are the one to comment on the return of Caspers as being nice? :D
I think its good to :)
I wonder if the other nations will look to start building them (or similar systems) now?
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Nice. Love that last bit. :D
Why am I not surprised that you are the one to comment on the return of Caspers as being nice? :D
Because I have solid taste. :)
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INN Exclusive Report
Ecol City, Thorin
Star League Protectorate
7th May 3088
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen, this is Gabriel Caldwell, today we present an exclusive report on the Star League Protectorate's newest inhabitants. Last year Major-General Bannister Cameron announced that a group named the Fidelis would be inhabiting Mopelia Island of New Earth. The Fidelis were marooned in the periphery following a malfunction with their JumpShip during the Reunification War, the world they previously inhabited was becoming dangerous. New Earth's Mopelia Island was a new start for these people and for New Earth.†He said beside him an image of Mopelia Island floated “the Island of Mopelia had been allowed to languish since the chemical attack of 3076. However since their arrival on New Earth the Lyran Commonwealth with the permission of the Star League Protectorate's government requested access to the Yankee Weapons Systems plant which has been abandoned on the Island. The Excalibur BattleMech that was previously produced there would have been a welcome addition to the LCAF. After a refusal for access the Lyrans have left the Island and the Fidelis alone.†He said pausing as the image beside him changed to an Excalibur type BattleMech. “Observations from beyond the SLDF exclusion zone show that the Yankee plant has not been touched by the Fidelis and is sill empty.â€
“So far it appears the Fidelis want nothing to do with the outside world, they have asked for nothing from the rest of New Earth, from the Protectorate Government or from the Star League Defence Force. At present they appear to be in the middle of a major construction effort on Mopelia Island what exactly they are building is anyone's guess as it does not appear ti be military in nature.
Cameron-Jones Palace
Regulus, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
18th May 3088
The camera came up slowly to show Titus Cameron-Jones sitting behind the desk of the Prince of Regulus, his father's desk until last night. Titus looked at the camera trying to keep the tears from his eyes, the people didn't need to see that, all he wanted was to cry. “Ladies and Gentlemen of the Regulan Fiefs, of the greater Free Worlds League and the Inner Sphere beyond. Today I bring you grave news last night my father Kirc Cameron-Jones passed away in his sleep, there was no pain, he left us peacefully as I believe he would want us to continue.†He said pausing
“As a result as of this date the throne of Regulus no longer plans to contest rulership of a united Free Worlds League. I do not wish to be known as a Captain-General of the Free Worlds League instead I am a Prince of Regulus, I require no more. The Principality of Regulus will support a reformed Free Worlds League.†He said looking into the camera “Regulus will be a force towards reunification I challenge the other leaders of the Free Worlds League to join me in this goal.†He said and the video cut off. Within days both the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Oriente Protectorate had agreed a peace fire with the reborn nation but neither was ready to declare they were ready for a reborn Free Worlds League.
3 Kilometres south Tian-tan
St Ives, St Ives Compact
21st May 3088
“It is so nice to be on this world.†Cameron Victor St Jamis-Liao said clasping his hands together behind his back.
“Sire, we should have gone to Sian, they attacked us we should have shown we have no fear.†One of his Acolytes said quietly the man had bright red eyes but otherwise looked “challenged the Chancelor put a Liao back at the head of the Capellan Confederation.†He said Cameron smiled
“The Attack on Highspire proved one thing we need to raise support, that takes time.†He said Sian had been picked for a reason his Warrior House White Tiger had landed and engaged the First and Second St Ives Lancers in vicious combat. The was the White Tiger's first blooding and he was very proud of what they had accomplished so far.
“Their WarShips are converging on our position, we have yet to breach the cities defences, if they are above us then they could bombard us and we cannot reply to that.â€
“That will not happen.†Cameron St Jamis-Liao said clasping the hilt of his broadsword. “We press the attack, I want the St Ives Lancers destroyed.†He ordered glancing upwards above in orbit the SIS Kai Allard-Liao, a Kai-class Destroyer, moved over Tian-tan opposite it the SIS St Ives, the St Ives Compact's newest Kai-class Destroyer also moved over the city.
- - -
“Instruct the St Ives to hold back†Captain Elizabeth Thurston ordered watching the image of the SIS St Ives change position.
“They are ignoring our hails†the communications officer said moments before the SIS St Ives opened fire on the Kai Allard-Liao. Naval gauss rifle, autocannon and laser fire tore into the Destroyer's forward and port armour of the sister Kai-class Destroyer.
“Return fire!†Thurston ordered naval autocannon fire spat from the the Kai Allard-Liao, naval autocannon, laser and gauss rifle fire tore into the other ship. The two ships continued to fire even as fighters and DropShips launched from both WarShips.
- - -
As Cameron St Jamis-Liao moved his Awesome BattleMech carefully over the surface of St Ives another enemy BattleMech fell under his PPC fire. He flexed his artificial left hand his original hand he had sacrificed for the cause. “Sire, the sky!†His communication system barked Cameron instantly swiveled his BattleMech to look into the air. High above them twin flames burned through the atmosphere.
“Our work is done, we have blooded the people of St Ives with our fists.†He said blasting another enemy vessel to pieces. “fall back to the DropShips, an orderly withdrawal, all vessels prepare to evacuate.†He said blasting another Mech with his Particle cannons the Helios BattleMech continued to run under the fire but Cameron worried little about the Mech. His White Tigers had preformed brilliantly between the two Regiments they were battling at least one combined had been destroyed while his own forces had lost perhaps a Battalion, easily replaced with help from their benefactors.
Clan Sea Fox Halls
Camora, Twycross
Sea Fox Occupation Zone
23rd May 3088
Standing at the window Scientist General Rodney looked out at the Great Storm Diabolis which continued to ravage Twycross' desert surface despite Clan Sea Fox's best efforts to calm it. “And the other Clans say the same Star Colonel?â€
“Clans Wolf, Hell's Horse and Ghost Bear Watch Organizations have all confirmed similar findings to our own.†The other man said quietly “findings with the Snow Ravens is worse... it appears they are on the verge of completely losing the Crow Bloodline much in the way Clan Ghost Bear lost the Tseng Bloodline there deaths like the bears range into the thousands.â€
“And the other Clans?â€
“The Jade Falcons remain tight lipped about their losses however our intelligence suggests that they have sustained losses in at least the hundreds. We have not yet communicated with the Nova Cats.â€
“Do the other Clans have any idea what is going on? What is causing these losses?â€
“The Ghost Bears have found something in their water supply on Thule, but they have yet been able to identify where it came from or how to combat it.â€
“The same as us, we've identified something, but we can't figure it out or where it came from. It is as bad as that damned storm.†Rodney cursed “the only bright thing seems to be it only targets people with a certain genetic make-up and doesn't seem adaptable on its own.†He mused quietly as the Star Colonel stood silently behind him. “We cannot do this alone†Rodney said turning around to face the other man “Star Colonel, I need you to approach the other Scientist Generals of all the Inner Sphere and Periphery based Clans.â€
“Should we not inform the Khans, Quineg?â€
“Neg, if we do the Khans will hide there true losses to save face, admitting they are weak could invite a fight. We cannot afford the delays the Khans' negotiations will take. The question is can you contact the other Scientist Generals?â€
“Aff, Wolf, Hell's Horses, Ghost Bear and Snow Raven will be easy their capitals are accessible and their scientists should be open to being approached.†He replied “it will be the Jade Falcons and Nova Cats that will be the problem. The Jade Falcons barely allow their scientists to breath without a warrior being present, while the Nova Cat's primary scientists enclaves are on New Barcella which is still hidden from us.â€
“They have other settlements that we do have a location on, Quiaff?†Rodney asked becoming annoyed the Star Colonel was a competent Watch operative but sometimes requiring a little too much direction. “I believe one they are specifically setting up as a trade settlement, infiltrate that gain access to once of their scientists or engineers and pass the message, I want all the Clans to be there at once.â€
“Yes, sir I will make sure they all receive the message.†He said saluting before turning and leaving officially the Scientist General had no jurisdiction over any warrior, including those of the Watch, fortunately Rodney had been able to convince the Sea Fox Watch of the importance of this particular problem, and the potential solution. If they were caught only time would tell if the various Clan Khans agreed with his decisions, the importance of their choices and if they allowed him to live.â€
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>:( How did the CC get agents onboard the SIS St Ives to fire on the SIS Kai Allard-Liao. So Cameron St Jamis-Liao just can't leave the status quo alone. Looks like he is setting himself up as the next Chancellor? More please!
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>:( How did the CC get agents onboard the SIS St Ives to fire on the SIS Kai Allard-Liao. So Cameron St Jamis-Liao just can't leave the status quo alone. Looks like he is setting himself up as the next Chancellor? More please!
More Thugee than CC and much in the same was as how they got nukes to destroy the CCSS Highspire and disable its AMS fields... they had help
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Sneaky gits. I approve.
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Sneaky gits. I approve.
Why is no one surprised at your joy?
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One simple reason we are all highly intelligent. ::)
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One simple reason we are all highly intelligent. ::)
Er............
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University of Thorin/NAIS
Thorin/New Avalon
Star League Protectorate/Federated Suns
8th June 3088
After several years of continuous development and limited testing on DropShips the University of Thorin and the NAIS present the AR-15 Multi-Purpose Sub-capital Missile Launcher for WarShip testing to the Star League and Federated Suns naval commands. The Star League Defence Force assign the task to a Congress-class Frigate, the vessel had previously served with ComStar as the Cleansing Fire, while the Federated Suns assigns this weapon's testing to the FSS Admiral Corrine Donnings, a Fox Block I-class Corvette, which had been under-refit to become a repair vessel.
Additionally to its testing the Bristol is assigned by the SLDF High Command as the Star League vessel which would be the SLDF's link to the Sol System's Belter population and they task the Bristol with tracking down potentially dangerous space rocks throughout the Terran system during its testing stage.
Fifteenth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
12th June 3088
The Star League Games had been marred for years by corporate sponsorship and state run victories. This year was unfortunately no different Max Tredinnick fought his way to to victory pilotting his brand-new STM-R1 Storm Rider. The Mech developed on Hesperus II by Defiance Industries but had been purchased for production by Coventry Metal Works.
Having either Defiance Industries or Coventry Metal Works sponsoring a MechWarrior would not have made waves but this particular Mech had been donated by Coventry Metal Works to Max Tredinnick, the representative warrior of the Marian Hegemony which was currently ruled by Caesar Katrina Ward, formerly-Steiner Davion former Archon of the Lyran Alliance. Although there was no direct link to be found by Lyran Intelligence between Katrina Ward and Coventry or Defiance the public use of a brand-new Lyran BattleMech by the Marian leader's victorious warrior was enough to annoy many within the Lyran realm.
Even with this very public display of this light Mech's capabilities there is very little interest in the design in either the Lyran Commonwealth or beyond, few see the battlefield ability of the Mech.
Irian BattleMechs Limited
Irian, Rousset-Marik Alliance
Former-Free Worlds League
21st June 3088
As their DropShip the Oryol, an Aurora-class vessel, moved slowly towards Irian four troopers clad in the new experimental Gray Death Infiltrator Battle Armour suits stood close to the bay door “We have six minutes on the ground people, six minutes to get in, get our information and get our again. We are not expecting to take on the planet's entire garrison but Irian BattleMechs has its own internal security forces that we may need to eliminate.†The lead trooper briefed his three squad mates “our goal is not destruction, we want the information in building marked Alpha, second office, fourth floor. If we cannot access it we need to access Bravo's third floor, fifth office.†He said they'd all gone over the data three times before but once more never hurt.
The Oryol rocked as it entered the atmosphere “remember people we're not here to cause casualties but if we need to we eliminate targets.†He said as the bay ground doors opened the red light opposite the four troopers turned to green and all four dropped through the doors. All four one thousand kilogram suits dropped like stones for several hundred metres before their parafoils descended.
“Passive Counter measures are active, beginning perimetre sweep.†One of the troopers said swinging out in a wide arc. As the trooper flew six miniature remote sensors deployed from the suit at programmed intervals giving them a basic sensor net.
The four lonely troopers dropped through the cloud cover revealing Irian BattleMechs Limited plant the massive construction facility that was the lifeblood of the former-Free Worlds League BattleMech production, and what alone kept the Rousset-Marik Alliance competitive with every other Free Worlds state.
Dropping rapidly on the plant the four troopers cut away their parafoils free falling several hundred more feet before cutting in their suits jump jets periodically slowing their descent. All four landed within twenty feet of each other on the roof. “Perimetre clear†Trooper One said her voice calm and clear as she read the sensor data from the six remote sensors.
“Immediate clear†Trooper Two said looking at his improved sensor suite
“One, Two, you are both on over watch, keep it quiet until we need noise.†The commander ordered “Three, you are with me.†He said charging his suit forward faster than any unarmoured trooper could move the other trooper following him, they broke through the outer door not stopping they charged down the first and second sets of stairs “clear!†He called out looking onto the level. “Three, deploy surprises.†The other trooper signaled with hand signals before removing a remote mine from the back of the Battle Armour suit.
Moving through the offices he stopped at the target position inserting a small pen drive into the compute. “Four, One we have movement on perimetre, lots of it.â€
“Four, Two, entrance into the building, moving towards your location.â€
“One, Two, continue monitoring†he said “Three, ready for contact.†He replied, coming up the stairs were several security troops. “Information downloaded, on way out, three move, I'm right behind you.†The two charged back up the stairs towards the roof. As they climbed there were two small explosions as Three's 'surprises' exploded.
“You got a couple Three, nice one!†Two called as another explosion went off on the roof.
“What the hell was that?†Four shouted as he and Three exited back onto the roof.
“They have support.†One said, Four glanced over the edge four Heavy BattleMechs in the corporate orange and black of Irian BattleMechs Limited one of the Mechs was a seventy-five ton Prefect.
“Nice using our own Mech against us.†Four commented looking at the Mech that had brought this entire operation into play.
“We have further movement in the building, we're going to be losing this numbers game fast.†Two said as he, One and Three all leveled their David Light Gauss Rifles at the roof stairwell door.
“Time to even the odds a little.†Four commented changing channels “Oryol, Hammer Four requesting close in support, Bring rain, targets LASED. Repeat Bring rain, target's LASED!†He communicated leaning over the edge he brought his suit's Target Acquisition Gear (TAG) online with the four BattleMechs swapping between each marking all four.
“Hammer Four, targets read bringing rain.†A voice replied in moments then the air was filled with four low flying aircraft. Almost entirely flat with small fins half way along their fuselage an untrained observer could easily be forgiven for mistaking them for light aerospace fighters. The MechWarriors could even be forgiven to be expecting a light Aerospace fighter assault instead of the volley of Arrow IV ATGMs. The oversized air-to-ground-missiles slammed into the four Heavy BattleMechs as the fighters roared passed staggering each of the Mechs.
The fighters flew passed the heavy lance immediately showering the Heavy Mechs with missiles from their rear launchers each of the four Mechs still reeling from the artillery class missile strikes were covered in inferno fueled fire as they were struck with the smaller missiles. As the Heavy Mechs staggered under the damage and raising heat levels caused by the inferno fire each of the four Mechs was struck in the back with laser fire as four Wasp BattleMechs assaulted them from behind.
“That's our ticket people move to the Mechs†Four ordered launching his Gray Death Infiltrator from the roof towards the BattleMech fight. All four Mechs charged hitting the ground running, each trooper fired shots from their suits gauss rifles as they closed on the battle doing little damage on the way. “Close all filtration systems, we're on suit air from now on.†Each of the warriors clicked to confirm.
As they closed on the Mechs bay doors opened on each Mech this was not the usual extraction procedure but it was the easiest way. Each of the troopers launched up onto one of the Wasps each securing themselves within the Wasp's bomb bays. The rotary launcher that normally occupied most of the space within the bay had been removed instead each Mech had retained space for a single Arrow IV ATGM and space for a Battle Armour trooper to secure themselves now the missile was used the bay was quite spacious, which in itself would be problematic if the Wasps had to maneuver in the air.
“Hammer Squad Check†Four called out
“One, Go!â€
“Two, Secureâ€
“Three, I'm ready, this is the worse plan ever boss!â€
“Can it!†He barked Three hated flying Four hated it too but this was the best way “Hammer Four ready. Sickle Lance, when you are ready.†He communicated with the four Wasps. It was strange encased inside the BattleMechs Four could feel the heat building up in the bomb-bay already despite the additional ventilation. This close to the fusion engine there was no way to completely avoid the heat build up. There was other strange sounds as each of the Mechs took damage in battle and then a strange mechanical sound as each of the BattleMechs began to transform first into their AirMech configuration. Almost immediately Four could feel the Mech's speed increasing as Sickle Lance disengaged the ground fight and took to the air, and then into their aerospace fighter configuration. The complete transformation from capable ground force unit to a craft capable of traveling the space between planets the magic of the Land-Air-Mech. Extinct in the Inner Sphere for decades they had only recently started construction in a couple of places as the technology returned however these particular Mechs were of a far older vintage. Found in a forgotten ComStar cache on Terra these Mechs had been restored by SLDF technicians specifically for SAS Operations such as this one. In a stand-up battle the Mechs wouldn't be that effective but in a Special Operation they were the perfect asset capable of being stored are aerospace fighters, of providing air cover and of close in ground support to Special Forces teams such as Hammer Squad.
Each of the troopers was thrown about inside the LAMs as the flew up through the atmosphere and rendezvoused with the DropShip Oryol in orbit. The fighters escorted the DropShip clear of Irian but fortunately the raid had been over almost as soon as it had begun and Rousset-Marik forces had not been able to mobilize to Irian BattleMechs Limited's defence. The DropShip was able to dock the LAMs of Sickle Lance and recover Hammer Squad without further incident escaping to their Scout-class JumpShip which was hidden at the nearby pirate point.
The information gathered on Irian provided Star League Defence Force Intelligence with plenty of evidence that pointed to Irian BattleMechs Limited selling the Prefect type Heavy BattleMech to all bidders despite agreements that the Mech was to be exclusively an SLDF product. The evidence also points to Irian having links to sources on Gibson, Astrokazsy and Alphard and possible further construction centres of the Prefect BattleMech. With this evidence in hand the SLDF High Command began considering further action against Irian BattleMechs Limited.
As Rousset-Marik Alliance and Irian BattleMechs Limited analyzed the data gathered on the raid everything pointed towards a Lyran Commonwealth operation against Irian. The Aurora and Gray Death Infiltrators were both manufactured in the Isle of Skye region of the Lyran realm and Irian was a major competitor of the Lyran's Defiance Industries of Hesperus II which was also in the Isle of Skye. With this “proof†in hand the Rousset-Marik Alliance strengthened its borders began planning retaliatory operations. Although the Star League Defence Force did not wish an armed conflict between the Lyrans and Rousset-Marik Alliance it was preferred to conflict between the SLDF and the Rousset-Marik Alliance at this time.
Khan's Office
Szrged, Csesztreg
Hell's Horses Occupation Zone
26th June 3088
The doors to the office swung open and in entered new promoted saKhan Jake Kabrinski. The former Ghost Bear ristar had gone from strength to strength within Clan Hell's Horses and now he had risen to the second highest position within the Hell's Horses. However today he did not look amused “saKhan, what troubles you?â€
“Sir, we have lost all contact with The Apocalypse.â€
“It could be a communication problem? The Homeworlds have suffered such problems a lot recently Quiaff?â€
“Aff, however we have been in contact with Clan Sea Fox and Clan Jade Falcon.†Kabrinski said his voice even. “Both Clans have lost Contact with the Homeworlds as of yesterday it appears both Ironhold and the Sea Fox vessel Armageddon are not responding to communications.â€
“Armageddon? That vessel is formerly a Hell's Horse craft.â€
“Aff, the Armageddon went missing along the invasion path between the Homeworlds after reporting being shadowed by another vessel of unknown origin. The Jade Falcons were in the midsts of an evacuation of Ironhold last intelligence reports stated that things have finally boiled over in the Homeworlds there is fighting on nearly every world as well as reports of plagues passing over the populations of several worlds. The deaths are well into the millions, I do not believe the Homeworlds can recover from such losses.â€
“Aff, I have thought as much recently. Order all missions to the Homeworlds suspended. If The Apocalypse survives they survive alone.†James Cobb said standing up “the Inner Sphere is our future.â€
“Aff, my Khan.†Jake agreed. Within a week Clan Sea Fox confirmed they believed the Armageddon was destroyed and that five of their JumpShips were also destroyed. By the end of July every communication station and deep space colony between the Homeworlds and the Inner Sphere was gone. Each of the remaining Clans with assets in the Homeworlds confirmed the same story the Homeworlds were bathed in fire, disease and bitter inter-fighting. Each of the Inner Sphere and Periphery based Clans wrote off the Homeworlds as a lost cause.
I'm going to say this now... I'm not finished with the Homeworlds the Inner Sphere Clans are for now but the story will swing by there again sometime...
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I like the Lams aspect of the story. It reminds me of the Sandman Class Lam from Battletechnology The Early Years. This is good for all kinds of covert missions.
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Looper, Mule-class DropShip
Nova Roma, Alphard
Marian Hegemony
8th July 3088
“Not too impressive Quiaff?†Callon said quietly looking at the DropShip hundreds of Mule-class DropShips operated in this area.
“Aff, I believe that is the idea. The Snapping Jaws do not wish to draw attention to themselves.†Dano said quietly “they wish a new market.â€
“And through us they will likely gain links to the Rim Collection and the Taurian Concordat according to the rumour mill diplomats from both have landed and are in talks with the Caesar.â€
“Katina will make them may through the nose before she gives them the good stuff, you know what Lyrans are like.â€
“Aff, not only that she's as cunning as any Trueborn Wolf, these Foxes have no chance and neither do the Taurians†Callon said as the DropShip opened Dano just laughed the Sea Fox Clan was renown for their trading but by the end of the week they had agreed to supply the Marian Hegemony's armed forces with a steady supply of Star League and Clan-era levels of technology in exchange the Marians would provide the Sea Foxes with resources and supplies the Clan could use to repair its ships, construct new weapons and keep their people fed and watered.
“Super-Hub†University of Thorin
Ecol City, Thorin
Star League Protectorate
10th July 3088
In a radical move the Star League Defence Force's Department of Interstellar Communications moved their headquarters off Terra where it had been based since the days of the First Star League. In an effort to show that the Star League Protectorate would not follow the same path of the old Terran Hegemony.
Moving onto Thorin the Department sets up within the new “Super-Hub†near the University of Terra. This facility which interlinks a total of six HPGs processing communications across the Protectorate and into the Lyran Commonwealth's Isle of Skye. With the organization off of Terra Governor of Terra Gavin Dow stood down as Executive Director of the Department. Instead Deputy Director Damien McGaret, a native of Terra, was promoted to Director of the Communications Department.
Pillar of Autumn (Halcyon-class Cruiser)
Bruden, Clan Wolf OZ
13th July 3088
With their newest WarShip Clan Hell's Horses declare a Trial of Possession over the world of Bruden. While elements of The Stonewall Brigade Galaxy landing on the planet in a pair of Outpost-class DropShips and transported by Pelican-class Small Craft. The Halcyon-class Cruiser Pillar of Autumn was put through its paces in the system was the Clan Wolf vessel the Moore's Honour, an Essex-class Destroyer. After a brief exchange the Wolves agreed to an honour dual between the two vessels while the system's ownership would be decided on the planet's surface.
“Target coming into rangeâ€
“Scientist is your weapon ready, Quiaff?†the WarShip's commander Star Commodore Michael Anu asked the nervous looking member of the scientist caste. He had no place on a WarShip but today they would prove the concept behind his weapon or likely result in his death.
“Aff, Commodore it is...â€
“If it is ready Scientist then why the hesitation?â€
“I would have liked to test it in more peaceful circumstances.â€
“Nothing like reality for a true test, weapons fire when ready.†Anu ordered the ship's gunners who nodded. A few moments passed as the WarShips closed and shifted position.
“Firing in 3...2...1†the gunner called out moments later the forward Heavy Naval Gauss Rifle charged up firing three times in the amount of time a normal Naval Gauss Rifle fired once. Even as the Commodore watched the Moore's Honour reel under the three massive impacts he was aware of a magnitude of alarms going on in his vessel's command centre.
“Report!†Anu shouted
“The Gauss capacitors have overloaded! We have power spikes all along the port side!†His chief engineer screamed “damage control teams are on their way!â€
“When can we fire again?†The Commodore demanded watching the Moore's Honour turning its mangled nose away from the Pillar of Autumn. “Chief when?†He demanded even with the Clans hatred of Inner Sphere ranks and designations WarShip crews maintained unofficial ranks especially for Heads of Departments. Anu looked at his Chief Engineer who replied with a blank expression. “Doctor?†Anu said looking at the scientist.
“There's so much data...†the man stammered looking at his screens “I need my team to look at this.â€
“Doctor, I need an answer!†Anu demanded
“I'm sorry Commodore, I need to look at this in depth.â€
“If we get out of this alive. Helm, bring us closer to the enemy see how they like Naval Autocannons.†Anu resigned himself to a slugging match “Doctor, get off my bridge.†He ordered the Doctor simply nodded resigned to the fact that his weapons system was a failure.
“Sir, the Moore's Honour is requesting Hegira†the crewman at communications reported this battle was over.
“We will grant them Hegira†Michael Anu said content today to accept a victory. Turning to the Doctor Anu actually smiled “Doctor, perhaps your weapon system has some promise for the future.â€
“I hope so too, Star Commodore.†The doctor replied the Hell's Horses had spent years trying to replicate their Hyper Assault Gauss (HAG) Rifles on a Naval scale. The weapon on the Pillar of Autumn had worked, once, it was at least one step in the right direction. With the WarShip battle over the ground fight did not last much longer and the Wolves capitulated requesting Hegira which the Hell's Horses were more than happy to honour and agree to.
Research Facility
Urcunat, Kozice Valley
Tukayyid, Clan Ghost Bear Occupation Zone
22nd July 3088
Each of the Clans had sent at least one representative to the Sea Fox scientific mission on Tukyyid, most had sent their Scientist General each Clan understood how important this meeting was. Even Clan Jade Falcon had sent three of their geneticists from their much depleted Scientific Caste. Over the last several months each of the Clans present had lost hundreds of warriors to mysterious illnesses and genetic disorders, each of them had suffered the exact same conditions and illnesses despite no direct contact between each of the Clans.
Now they had all agreed to attend this scientific mission on Tukayyid and each had agreed to share information freely in an effort to end their losses.
Border Raid
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
26th July 3088
Dressed as units from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth The Krushers Regiment along with the First and Second Rousset-Marik Militia Regiments launch assaults on the Lyran Commonwealth worlds of Wing, Rochelle and Wyatt. Not aimed at capturing the worlds instead these assaults are targeted on resources produced on each of these worlds.
The First Rousset-Marik Militia Regiment captures a DropShip full of Germanium off the world of Wing without major loss on Wing. The fighting goes equally well on Rochelle as the Second Rousset-Marik Militia captures a company of MASH vehicles from the factory while eliminating the local militia. The fighting on Wyatt does not go the Rousset-Marik way landing on Wyatt under fire they take losses immediately from forces belonging to the Second McCarron's Armoured Cavalry Mercenary command. On the ground The Krushers try to charge down the factory on Wyatt but are cut off by the Second McCarrons taking further losses before they can get anywhere near the Archer BattleMech factory. Retreating under heavy fire the Krushers unfortunately leave plenty of evidence that it was not the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth but actually the Rousset-Marik Alliance that had conducted the raid.
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Another new piece of tech in the Repeating Naval Gauss Rifle
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/new-tech-repeating-naval-gauss-rifle/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/new-tech-repeating-naval-gauss-rifle/)
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:) Nice update with new tech! I like how Clan Hell's Horses is being so inventive in the Naval arena. Wonder if they will eventually share it with other clans? I like how Ceasar Katrina got the good deal from Clan Sea Fox to get higher tech levels in exchange for resources and stuff. Looking forward to other areas of your AU to get updated stories!
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:) Nice update with new tech! I like how Clan Hell's Horses is being so inventive in the Naval arena. Wonder if they will eventually share it with other clans? I like how Ceasar Katrina got the good deal from Clan Sea Fox to get higher tech levels in exchange for resources and stuff. Looking forward to other areas of your AU to get updated stories!
The other Clans gain access to it soon enough
Border Conflict
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth/Lyran Commonwealth
3rd August 3088
In retaliation for Rousset-Marik Alliance raids Isle of Skye armed forces and hired guns launch counter-attacks on the former-Free Worlds League. Striking against the worlds of Marcus, Callison, Dubhe and Dieudonne the Isle of Skye brings the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth into the fight. Almost immediately the lightly defended Callison and Dubhe fall to the Isle of Skye forces supported by the WarShips LCS Flygia, a Mjolinr-class Battle-cruiser, the LCS Kevin Tamar, a Fox-class Corvette, and the LCS Durance, a Coventry-class Corvette the Lyran forces are here to stay.
On Marcus Marik-Stewart Commonwealth forces continue to fight and the Rousset-Marik Alliance digs in on Dieudonne.
City of Turpan
Highspire, Liao Commonality
Capellan Confederation
8th August 3088
Entering the Highspire system via a pirate point to avoid any chance of another encounter with nuclear armed Highspire Aerospace Fighters. The Centrella Black Guards Regiment landed on the ground of Highspire assaulting Cameron St. Jamis-Liao's two Warrior Houses. The Centrella Black Guards however were supported by an entire Battle Armour Regiment which had alternate plans. While the Black Guards fought against the defenders the Battle Armoured troopers entered the city of Turpan and began to move house-to-house systematically executing the entire cities population in what could only be described as a Kentares styled Massacre.
When the Highspire defenders discovered what was happening within the system the order was given for the deployment of nuclear weapons to wipe out the Capellan Battle Armour and as much of the Black Guards as possible. Launched from land based silos, which the Confederation forces had no knowledge of, two low flying nuclear tipped cruise missiles slammed into the city of Turpan wiping out half of the city, the Battle Armour Regiment and half of the Black Guards. The remains of the Capellan unit retreated off world escaping before further nuclear weapons struck the area. The population of Turpan not killed by the Black Guards were killed by the nuclear fire that burned the city, or by the radiation fallout that followed in all more than two million of Highspire's population were killed in less than six hours.
Chief Executive Officer's Office
Irian Technologies, Irian
Rousset-Marik Alliance, Former Free Worlds League
13th August 3088
An assistant entered Chief Executive Officer of Irian Technologies office on Irian handing CEO Sigmund Hughes a brown letter with the SLDF's Cameron Star on the top corner. “Sir, this arrived by messenger for your attention.â€
“Thank you†Hughes said quietly accepting the letter “you can leave†he said. As the assistant left Hughes opened the letter removing the letter inside. It to was marked with the Cameron Star of the Star League and it was addressed to him, and to Irian Technologies board of directors, it read:
“For the Attention of Mr Sigmund Hughes, and the Board of Directors of Irian Technologies,
As of the date of delivery on this letter, the 13th August 3088, Irian BattleMechs, a subsidiary of Irian Technologies will no longer be accepted as a supplier of any item of technology be it offensive or defensive in nature for the Star League Defence Force. All current contacts are of this moment null and void, deliveries outstanding may be distributed as you wish, debts owed on already delivered Prefect tyoe BattleMechs will be settled by SLDF Quartermasters.
We take this action not because we wish to end our relationship with your company but because of members of your company and the deals that they have made to sell the previously mentioned Prefect BattleMechs to those outside of the Star League. This is despite an exclusive contract on the same aforementioned product.
Regards Commanding-General Archer Kendrick Christifori
Countersigned by Major-General Caradoc Trevena, Head of Staffâ€
Sigmund Hughes put down the letter and almost smiled before picking up his phone. “Mr Still, have the communications tower send a message to our DropShip inform them to use their alternate deliver schedule. Terra is no longer interested in our business.†He said quietly Irian Technologies prided itself on being a neutral supplier or arms to anyone with the resources or money to purchase Irian's equipment. As a result every ship carried at least two delivery schedules, if one buyer failed to collect then another would get their delivery early it was simple. After he heard an acknowledgment he continued “I also want you to send a communication to Gibson. Inform our contacts there that if they are still interested in our product then we have more available to distribute.†He said again there was an acknowledgment and Hughes put down the phone. Looking over the letter once he turned to his side and shredded the document it no longer having any meaning for him.
LAW-Test Site
Irece, Irece Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
22nd August 3088
In the quiet of night Clan Nova Cat's Third Watch Cluster landed on Irece exiting their DropShip which had been made to look like a civilian trade ship. Slipping past local DCMS forces using the stealth systems of their DEZGRA Mech's stealth systems. Early the next day the Third Watch Cluster launched a full assault against the Luthien Armour Works test site in the southern hemisphere overwhelming the defence force rapidly they captured several SM1-Telos and plans detailing the construction of the craft – all the proof the Nova Cats needed to confirm the Draconis Combine were producing their own version of the Nova Cat hovertank. Along with the Telos and their plans the Nova Cat's capture an AV-01 Avalanche a new experimental Draconis Combine OmniMech.
During the Watch Cluster's return to their DropShip the Nova Cats are attacked by groups of Combine Wasp LAMs. Discovering that the Draconis Combine LAM factory is still active and producing additional LAMs even at a snail's pace drives the Watch Cluster to madness, several Mechs charge down the DCMS LAM facility only to be cut down by mass fire from the defenders unable to get to the factory the Nova Cats abandon Irece their primary mission complete.
Clan Trade
Clan Wolf/Rasalhague Dominion
Occupation Zones
23rd August 3088
In a surprising trade the Rasalhague Dominion are approached by Clan Wolf. On the table the Clan Wolf places the worlds of Memmingen, Thannhausen and Heiligendreus all border worlds with the Rasalhague Dominion. In exchange the Wolves set their price at two trinaries each of Aesir and Vanir types of DropShip to be delivered over the next two years.
Although the prize is steep the Rasalhague Dominion is willing to match it as it gains them three more worlds that used to belong to the Free Rasalhague Republic reuniting people separated for more than three decades. The Rasalhague Dominion leadership actively promotes, and in many cases provides transport for families to, travel to and from the world leading to dozens of emotional reunions across the Dominion bringing the Rasalhague Dominion closer to their people.
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Hmmmm More Lams I wonder which kind and how many.
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Hmmmm More Lams I wonder which kind and how many.
Wasp LAMs it's a canon plant the Nova Cats destroyed during original invasion - not many produced
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Ah still enough to distract and cause havoc.
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Clan Shipyards
Chainelane Isles, Periphery
9th September 3088
With a second test of the Pillar of Autumn this time in less strenuous conditions proved the concept of the Naval Repeating Gauss Rifle. This time the weapon used on a scale closer to the Light Naval Gauss Rifle instead of the Heavy version. Happy with their accomplishments Clan Hell's Horses contract the Sea Foxes based in the Chainelane Isles to construct two new Halcyon-class vessels giving the Sea Foxes rights to manufacture the vessel while they begin to build one vessel of their own within their new Yardship, the Forge.
Testing Grounds
Asteroid Belt, Tamarind
Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey, Former-Free Worlds League
12th September 3088
Moving slowly into the Tamarind system's asteroid belt the Tamarind-Abbey Ships (TAS) Promised Land and Abby, both Abby-class Frigates, began testing their weapons on various sizes of asteroid. With a combination of Naval class Capital Lasers, Autocannons and missiles the two six hundred thousand ton vessels destroyed dozens of asteroids, target drones and dummy DropShips. The ships also began testing their engines, fighter launch facilities and DropShip launch capabilities bringing the vessels up to combat capabilities. A third vessel under construction at the Forerunner A.G. Shipyards was also nearing completion with the plan for the ship to be sold to the Star League Defence Force showing the commitment of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey to the new Star League.
Until mid October 3088 the two ships continued shakedown operations in the Tamarind system before beginning jump trials taking them across the Duchy. Each was escorted by a pair of JumpShips carrying assault and tug DropShips.
System transit, First Federated Suns Lancers RCT
Chesterton, Capellan March
Federated Suns
18th September 3088
After Capellan actions on Highspire and the rumoured use of nuclear weapons the First Federated Suns Lancers RCT was moved to Chesterton. The trip had been uneventful until about an hour from the planet.
Now klaxons sounded throughout the Union-class vessel as Prince Burton Davion made his way to the bridge. Coming the other way he was surprised to see Countess Pamela Achernar "Pamela I'm on my way to the bridge what's going on?"
"My Prince" she started but Burton could see none of the joy usually associated with those words "the Captain ordered all MechWarriors to their Mechs"
"I'm heir to the throne my place is on the bridge where I can make a difference not in a tin can nowhere near land"
"Unless you can magic up a WarShip I don't think there is much you can do." That was something he should have been able to do the unit was supposed to be under escort from the FSS Lucian Davion but the Avalon-class Cruiser had sprung a helium leak before the last jump and was stranded ten light years away. The unit had continued as the move was a precaution with no real threat having been made against Chesterton.
"What's going on?" He asked again.
"A Congress-class Frigate appeared from behind Chesterton doesn't match the profile of any of our ships or any known ships of the class.
"I should be on the bridge I can talk to them demand they stand down" he said trying to push passed her but Pamela reached out stopping him.
"That would defeat the purpose of the plan in ten minutes the Regiment's DropShips will accelerate while the Avalon One and her escorts change course. We think the WarShip is after you they will think you are on the Avalon One or one of the Blockade Runners."
"Those ships can't return the firepower of a Congress-class Frigate or defend against ones attack." He pointed out
"That isn't the plan my prince the plan is to get you in your tin can of a Mech" she said smirking considering what most MechWarriors thought of their Mechs she found his reaction refreshing "to the atmosphere and to somewhere you can make a difference."
"Even if it costs us the RCT?" He asked coldly
"The needs of one outweigh the few" she said quietly "to coin a phrase."
"Slightly mixed up there" he said quietly but understood her meaning "come with me ride in the back it'll be a bumpy ride but I can get you down" he said grabbing her arm. Pamela did not resist his grasp instead she lent in kissing him strongly on the lips.
"Our paths go different ways, My Prince" she whispered breaking off the embrace. "You are destined to lead our nation I an destined to make sure you get there."
"I have brothers and sisters, my father is going nowhere soon" he said desperately searching for other options.
"It's not set in stone what is planned for today. I'll see you again." She promised him Burton slowly let her go turning back towards the Mechbay he heard Pamela speak into a comm. device "Delta Two intercepted and on way" she said there was a reply Burton couldn't make out before he heard her reply "yes, sir on my way."
As Prince Burton Davion reached the Mechbay he saw several techs swarming over his Templar fitting a high atmosphere descent rig. The OmniMech had jump jets which could do the job but this system was more efficient and easier to control. "Looks about ready Chief Tech?" He asked the senior maintenance technician.
"Yes sir, we just have safety checks to do..."
"Hang them" Burton interrupted "trust your techs to do their jobs first time and move on we're on a clock"
"The Captain said to make certain you had the best chance..."
"This is still my company do your jobs right first time around and get this company ready. Start on Mechs that lack jump jets give as many MechWarriors a chance."
"Aye, sire" the tech replied triumphantly "you hear that you lazy sods the Prince wants a company ready. Sack the safety checks but double each other as you go." He ordered the 'tech checks' took half the time as regulation safety checks but were just as effective and a mainstay of battlefield operations.
Burton nodded satisfied the techs had the company in order and moved to his Mech the senior tech took a step with him "Chief, I'm a big boy I can look after myself help your people."
"Thank you sir" the chief said taking a step towards the next Mech that even now techs were swarming over.
"And Chief?" The Tech turned towards him "make sure your people don't overstay on the sinking ship" he said the Chief glanced up then back at Burton who nodded. The tech understood what Burton meant and how bad things could be stood and gave Burton a full salute in thanks for the Prince's warning.
Changing quickly into his coolant suit Burton climbed the ladder to the Templar's shoulder as he did sirens sounded warning of an immediate course change. Burton braced as the Union felt like it had turned end over end in a tight turn. One of the Techs slipped off the Marauder he was working on but the safety harness saved him from a messy end.
Staggering into the cockpit Burton squeezed down onto the command chair. Immediately he began start up checks and switched on both his communication suite and sensor package as a Company Commander's Mech its systems were tuned to the DropShip's own giving Burton at least a glimpse of what was happening.
Outside in space Burton could see the Lancers had arranged themselves in two groups one contained the Mech and ground forces while the other contained the Regiments assault forces and the Avalon One, Burton's personal ship, he'd gotten lucky since up until the last jump he had been on that ship instead of this one at least here he could prepare for a fight.
As the potentially hostile Congress closed on the Lancers the DropShip groups began to cross and merge the idea was simple give the WarShip gunners too many targets for their guns to effectively engage. Most AFFS DropShip Captains had trained against the Federated Suns' own Congress-class vessels which were better equipped to handle this kind of tactic. At the same time the Avalon One and her escorts would try to punch through the enemy defences. Hopefully gaining their attention making the WarShip and turn to chase them as the theory was they wanted to kill the Federated Suns heir.
As the two opposing forces met further alarms sounded and lights popped throughout the Mechbay as the DropShip made further course changes. Burton felt the gravitational forces on his body as the DropShip accelerated, he did his best to blank out the pressure concentrating on the display. An unlucky Gazelle type DropShip took a naval autocannon blast and disappeared from sensors just before the Avalon One and her escorts made a daring run at the Congress.
According to the Union's sensor feet to Burton's Templar the Avalon One came within one hundred and twenty metres as it and the two Blockade Runners tried to take some attention off the other ships.
Further course changes came as the Union continued to move evasively Burton briefly wondered if it was Pamela at the helm before the sensor image got his attention again. The Avalon One's move had bated the Congress but perhaps too much as the Frigate turned its full broadside on the ship. Although the sensor image showed none of the DropShip's death throws Burton could imagine laser, autocannons and missiles tearing the ship to pieces. As it disappeared from the screens Burton saw that the ship's sacrifice had bought them enough time to reach planetary orbit over Chesterton. As the Union began to change course a Tech ran out and began to indicate to Burton it was time to move.
Bringing the Templar full online he stepped the eighty five ton OmniMech from its alcove the additional thrusters made the Mech feel far from right but after a few steps Burton could tell they were balanced perfectly as they Mech's gyro fed back to his neuralhelmet. Stepping to the doors he saw the red light turn to amber bracing for atmospheric insertion Burton felt the friction against the DropShip as it entered the atmosphere the three thousand six hundred ton DropShip shook heavily for several minutes as it transited through the space/atmosphere barrier.
Then all of a sudden, like the eye of a storm, there was complete calm. The bay doors opened showing Chesterton's atmosphere and the amber light turned to green. Burton's training kicked in taking several steps forward he launched the Mech into the open air without hesitation knowing the next Mech would be waiting. Like the paratroopers of ancient Terra they had to trust that their training and their equipment would see them through.
After a few moments of frantic free fall the descent pack kicked in and the Templar's descent became a far more orderly affair almost like an elevator within a large building. With the rush of free fall over the Prince was happy to see that all twelve of his Mechs were clear of the DropShip and descending at an acceptable pace. Above them the DopShip was clearing their glide trajectory.
It wasn't over however higher above from orbit naval weapons fire lanced through the sky. One blast smashed into the top of the Union crumpling its armour instantly turning the spheroid vessel into a ball of flame as its descent turned into an uncontrolled fall.
"No!" Burton called out but it was too late the ship was gone. His thoughts went to Pamela Achernar, her beautiful face and bright future, but then he was brought back to reality as the Templar's sensors detected the Aerospace Fighters raising towards him and the rest of the Lancers, none with friendly IFF tags...
Orbital Insertion, First Federated Suns Lancers RCT
Chesterton, Capellan March
Federated Suns
18th September 3088
As the fighters rose towards Burton's descending Templar and the other Lancers, the Prince looked at the aircraft, he didn't recognize the designs that looked alien to anything he'd ever seen. Each had a small profile with twin stabilizing fins and what looked like adjustable wings. No aerospace fighter Burton knew of had adjustable wings these looked more like the conventional fighters carried by wet navy aircraft carriers. The speed the fighters produced alone indicated they were aerospace craft the first particle canon blast fired from one of the smallest of the craft almost proved it.
The blast caught the Templar high on the torso but did little damage other than some burned armour plate. Burton vectored the landing jets turning his Mech towards the rising craft bringing his LB-X autocannons in line with the targets checking that cluster ammo was selected he let off a burst in the direction of the fighters. Dozens of autocannon cluster munitions smashed into the lead fighters Burton wasted no time firing another shot as the fighters tore through the dropping Lancer formation. He was pleased to see the second blast tear open one of the strange fighters undersides causing it to spin away wildly out of control.
As Burton's Mech continued to fall he watched the sensor display as the fighters turned for another pass, three Lancer Mechs had been lost in the attack. Burton tried to turn his Mech to face the enemy again but this time the thrusters were too slow. He felt enemy weapons fire year into the rear of his Mech but was surprised to see no damage on the wire frame display. Pinging it with his finger in a vain attempt to make it change Burton guessed it was a faulty screen. Then the penny dropped, and so did the Templar, the Prince realized what had happened at nearly the same time as the first cut out occurred. The insertion thrusters had been damaged not the Mech "you have got to be kidding!" Burton shouted as the thrusters re-engaged just in time for an enemy fighter to tear past. Taking a snapshot Burton was surprised to see a few LB-X pellets hit "I still bite you bastard" he cursed as the thruster pack cut again. "To hell with...!" He shouted slamming the release.
All at one the thrusters exploded away from the Templar and the breaking parachute deployed cutting the Mechs falling speed dramatically for a few seconds which all Burton needed to engage his Mechs own thrusters on an extended burn "enough to get down" he whispered. At least for now the enemy fighters had disengaged the ground forces instead attacking what little remained of the Lancer aerospace fighters which had avoided the Congress and enemy DropShips.
Burton scanned the ground seeing nothing but woodland. They were landing during the planets night cycle but his sensors would distinguish between enemies and trees, at least he hoped they would. He suddenly realized none of the Lancer commanders had called in a rendezvous point. As a company commander he had them all looking at the display he picked one far from any towns or sign of life "this is Delta Two, RVP-20 repeat Romeo-Victor-Two-Zero." He communicated "the code word of the day is Abraken. Repeat Abraken" he said into the speaker each Mech had a code number that related to the code word. These were committed to memory by each warrior and trooper if not given when entering the Rendezvous Point a unit would be fire upon whether they looked friendly or not.
Cutting off the communications Burton braced as the Templar entered the tree canopy. There was nothing here that could stop the falling eighty-five ton OmniMech but it was still never a nice feeling as tree branches tore and scratched at the Mech's paintwork. The jump jets fired one final time bringing the Mech down to a relatively soft landing.
Cutting off the jump jets Burton immediately turned his Mech to the left away from the RVP moving three hundred metres he stopped and shut every active system off. Waiting in silence he watched for any movement towards his landing point. Burton didn't know how much time passed sitting there but soon he realized he was safe from immediate threat and was in a position to pay his enemies back for the damage and pain they had already caused.
Rendezvous Point 20
Chesterton, Capellan March
Federated Suns
19th September 3088
Sitting in the dark Burton Davion lost track of the amount of time he remained there eventually he decided that no-one had seen him land. Powering back up the Templar he turned and began to head north-east towards the Rendezvous Point in the air all was quiet all of the Lancers who were going to land on Chesterton were down. Moving the eighty-five ton OmniMech slowly Burton kept an extra eye on the his sensors as he traveled through the thick forest. There was no movement scanning through his communication frequencies all the Prince heard was static. Switching back to the Lancer's Regimental frequency all he heard was silence.
Traveling for nearly an hour Burton detected some distant movement but nothing immediately threatening or friendly. Instead of trying to engage or communicate Burton avoided contact following standard operating procedure he continued on to RVP-20. Moving slowly towards the coordinates his communications system activated “Halt and identify yourself†the voice demanded. Burton typed his personal code into the communication system against each daily code was a specific code number, these codes were not related to specific dates but instead any “day†selected by a senior commander of the regiment. Burton had transmitted the code word “Abraken†typing in the code for that word he hoped a more senior commander had not countered it. Moments after transmitting the code the voice spoke again “stand forward and be recognized.†The sentry said stepping forwards Burton saw a slightly damaged SGT-8R Sagittaire Assault BattleMech. “Pass friend†the sentry communicated swiveling its weapons away from Burton's Mech as he moved further forwards he saw on his sensors two heavy tanks move in behind his assault Mech, looking at the screens Burton noticed one was a Churchill Heavy Tank while the other was a Roland Heavy OmniTank, quite a welcoming committee when combined with the Sagittaire.
Burton was escorted to a holding area where Burton saw a companies worth of Mechs he knew SOP would be for each holding area to have at most a company of Mechs or armour. To have more could severely compromise the unit if the holding point was discovered.
From the holding point he was escorted to a small prefabricated single level structure. Inside were a group of people in AFFS uniform looking around he recognized a few, they were all Lancers, he also noticed that none were higher ranked than Major. “Captain Davion, welcome to RVP-20, reporting as ordered, sir†Major Matthew Lopez said saluting Burton returned the salute immediately out of habit.
“Major you out rank me.†Burton protested as he dropped the rank.
“But you are a MechWarrior, the General's aide and a Davion. I would prefer it if you took command, I'll support you in any way I can.†Lopez explained, he was a tank commander the great prejudice against warriors and officers stemming from the Armour Corps showing its effect again. Behind Lopez Burton could not see a single person complaining with the Major's idea. “Alright, where are we?†He asked stepping up to a table in the middle each of them had probably served in the AFFS a lot longer than him, and now they looked to him for leadership.
“Sir, the enemy has secured the capital and space around the planet. They have raided out of the capital but for the most part are holding station within the capital.â€
“Why?†Burton said quietly the others looked to him not completely understanding the question. “They have significant forces correct?†the others nodded “they have air and space superiority?†Again the others nodded “they why haven't they attacked us in force?â€
“They have ventured out in enough force to overwhelm a company sized unit on at least three occasions in the last hour. Perhaps they still want to see how we are deployed and how organized we are following their ambush. Once they have us pinned down they could wipe use out with their WarShip.†One officer pointed out.
“Then why bother venturing out?†Burton asked
“Warriors wishing to get involved in a fight?†Another pointed out
“They were disciplined enough to set up the ambush.†Burton said quietly “do you have the data on the three attacks?†The Prince asked one of the officers handed over several pieces of paper which Burton glanced over, as he read he realized they had all grown silent. As he read the information he noticed one linking factor “they are after me.†Burton said quietly the others looked at him surprised “The attack on Second Company, Second Battalion MechWarrior Thomas Birch a Templar pilot.†He said putting down one piece of paper “First Company, Third Battalion Todd Levit Templar pilot and the most recent attack Third Company First Battalion Leftenant Emily Lorne Templar pilot.†He said putting down the remaining two pieces of paper “each attack was targeted they want me dead.â€
“Then we just keep you hidden, when the Lucian Davion arrives their Frigate will have no chance and be overwhelmed.†Leftenant Paul Daniels suggested “if they are unwilling to risk their forces unless the Prince is in combat we won't have a problem.â€
“And what if they were involved in disabling the Lucian Davion and know when our WarShip will be repaired.â€
“A spy? Aboard one of our Avalon-class Cruisers!†One of the company commanders said his anger boiling.
“You are right, we cannot wait for the Lucian Davion†Burton Davion said “if we do that Frigate could bombard us to oblivion. Instead we're going to draw them out. Have all four Templars readied for battle as best we can make them then have their pilots report to me.†Burton said explaining his idea to the rest of the troops each of them began to understand just what the Prince had in mind.
“Sire, they could bombard your Lance from orbit, it's a suicide run, any warrior willing to take the job would be crazy.†Major Lopez said
“I'm willing to offer it to each of the warriors on a voluntary basis. Either that or I'll reassign their Mechs to volunteers.â€
“Sir, those MechWarriors are not going to like being removed from their Mechs.†Another officer pointed out Burton couldn't place his name.
“Captain, the last time I checked those Mechs belonged to the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns and to my family. If I want the damned Mechs I'll take them.†The Prince snapped he hated using his families position but sometimes his name helped. “As for the use of bombardment, I think its possible but unlikely because we are going to give them a pair of targets to look at. If they really want me they can try bombardment, but if they try that we are going to guarantee they lose their entire force.†He said as he began to explain the rest of his plan.
SFV Terror of the Deep (Nightlord-class Battleship)
Varnay Anchorage, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
22nd September 3088
There were four flashes of light as the Sea Fox Vessel Terror of the Deep escorted by three Nova Cat Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers entered the Varnay Anchorage System. The Nightlord-class Battleship had been damaged from fore to stern with naval missile, laser and autocannon fire in between smaller conventional arms hard also taken a bite at the mighty vessel. The Terror of the Deep was flagship of the Sea Foxes Faulk Khanate and had been one of their few vessels in the vicinity of the Clan Homeworlds.
The Sea Foxes told a story of chaos as they had been attacked from every avenue during what they considered a routine trade mission back to the Homeworlds. They told of the use of nuclear weapons and the near complete break-down of Clan society. Unfortunately for the Nova Cats the Terror of the Deep knew nothing of the still missing Nova Cat Flagship the Severn Lervoux. Refusing to give up on the vessel the Nova Cats allowed the Terror to dock with the Varnay shipyards at an alternate dock leaving one open for the Battle-cruiser.
The Varnay Anchorage had the largest repair facility outside of the shipyard at New Barcella, the Nova Cat's now the strongest they had ever been in their history, had begun to look at increasing their naval strength. At New Barcella, the Clan's Capital and hidden from others eyes, they had begun construction of a new type of Corvette named the Drake-class, based on an ancient Clan Mongoose designed vessel. That construction work left the yard in the Varnay system responsible for JumpShip construction and WarShip repairs today the Sea Fox vessel needed access, but only at a price. In exchange for returning the Terror of the Deep to combat readiness the Nova Cats named their price the Hell's Horses new Cruiser the Halcyon-class and their Repeating Naval Gauss Rifle, two items the Sea Foxes had access to due to them constructing their first vessel for the Hell's Horses, despite agreements the Sea Fox merchants had made with their Hell's Horse counterparts not to trade the design so soon the Clan wanted their Nightlord repaired and agreed despite the potential consequences.
Bait and Hook
Chesterton, Capellan March
Federated Suns
23rd September 3088
It had taken the Lancers four days to make all four Templars combat ready not one of the the warriors had backed down from the challenge. Now the Lance stood nearly ten kilometres from the capital city patrolling trying to get a reaction from the defenders none of the four Mechs mounted any sort of ECM gear which was intentional Burton wanted his Mechs broadcasting as much data as possible.
“One, I have contacts, sir it appears to be an enemy patrolâ€
“Prince Burton... I mean One, we should fall back this is an exposed position.†Leftenant Paul Daniels cut in making the “deliberate “mistake†in mentioning Burton's name over the comm. had almost the immediate desired effect. “We have three companies worth moving from the city, they must have been watching us.â€
“Fall back, two-by-two, one hundred intervals, moving†Burton called out walking his OmniMech backwards. After he was just over one hundred metres away he stopped beside some rocks as another of the four Templars began to move traveling just past Burton's position. This was repeated by the third then fourth Templar as the enemy began to close. Burton could see BattleMechs from across the Inner Sphere wearing markings he didn't recognize, dropping his targeting cursor over an enemy Hussar he blasted the light Mech with his Mech's Extended-Range Particle Cannon. The PPC blast of man-made lightning briefly connected the two Mechs as the thirty ton staggered and fell under the hammer blow. “Moving†Burton called out as he again moved one hundred metres just passed the fourth Templar of the Lance, the entire unit continued to mirror the Prince's movements taking a shot at the enemy and then moving. “This is Prince Burton Davion to all Federated Suns Lancers, requesting immediate assistance under heavy assault from unknown enemy forces in grid six alpha†Burton broadcast in the clear knowing that the Lancers were listening but that the majority of them were far from his position. “Repeat requesting assistance†he said again his use of the word “repeat†would sound desperate to his enemy but the Lancers had been informed if Burton used the word it meant everything was running to plan.
With the knowledge that Burton believed he had the situation under control the majority of the Lancers made their move. From concealed positions on the other side of the city they launched an all out offensive against the city and the few defenders their enemy had left. Although still numerous the Lancers would have outnumbered them even if they had not split their forces to chase the Prince. Engaging in the city was a desperate move by any force but the Lancers had no choice, picking their shots carefully they did their best to avoid shots that may go wide into buildings that could contain civilians while the enemy fired without a thought. The First Federated Suns Lancers RCT were taking heavy damage but were making steady progress.
Outside the city Burton's Lance continued to make its staggered withdrawal but the enemy were getting a lot closer, their fire was increasing in intensity and accuracy. All four Templars were beginning to take heavier damage. Burton looked at his sensors seeing they were almost in position “Templar Lancer, general retreat, repeat general retreat.†He called out at this signal all four Mechs abandoned their orderly withdrawal and started running at full speed away from their enemy the assault OmniMechs had no chance of outrunning the enemy force but that wasn't entirely the plan. Charging into a box canyon the Templars charged passed a nearly a Battalion of “hull-down†heavy tanks each was over sixty tons and partially hidden by dirt and rocks. Once behind the tanks the four Templars turned to face their enemy still charging after Burton's lance were unprepared for the tank ambush. Because each of the tanks was a heavy design each carried a massive autocannon or missile rack as its main weapon added to the Templars own impressive firepower caught the enemy forces by complete surprise felling several Mechs in quick succession. After getting over the initial shock the enemy's fire began to take its toll on the armour and Templars again even if they were now fighting three dozen more targets, it was obvious that despite being ambushed their enemy was still focused on killing the Prince. “Fine, have it your way.†Burton muttered shaking his head his enemy was so focused on killing him that they were not noticing the fact that the other Lancers were securing the city behind them “Toad Assault†he ordered almost with a smile the designation “Toad†was what his father had given to Clan Elementals when he had first encountered them during the Clan War. Burton's “Toads†were of a different breed made up of a collection of Cavalier, Hauberk, Grenadier, Infiltrator II and Infiltrator III Battle Armour suits Burton had positioned them all around the edge of the canyon. Intermingled with the troopers were conventional infantry troopers armed with missile launchers and heavy machine guns.
With weapons fire pouring in on the enemy Burton was almost impressed that they didn't just all turn and run. Instead they all stood their ground firing constantly despite now being out numbered and outgunned. The Prince couldn't understand why they were making a last stand, their aerospace fighters should be in the air by now and would soon probably tip the balance back towards them and their WarShip... their WarShip. Burton realized almost too late “all units charge through them, get into open ground and scatter†he ordered seeing for a moment everyone stunned with his order he shouted “move!†He shouted into his microphone. The entire force of armour and Mechs charged forwards towards their enemy again momentarily surprising their enemy however that was nothing compared to what happened next.
The entire area turned into a mass of explosions as naval autocannons and capital missiles as the orbiting Congress turned the area into a mass of craters and fire. Blasts of fire erupted as the naval rounds targeted on the crater destroyed anything and everything in their path as the Blakists carpeted the area with fire. Blasts tore through Chesterton's countryside, trees, armour and troopers as the Lancers split-up the troops under Burton's command were torn to pieces by the fire. Burton Davion danced his eighty-five ton Templar through the fire as his Mech was hit by debris thrown up by the fire. Unfortunately the frigate's ammunition bays seemed bottomless and Burton's luck was no as the Templar ran through a group of trees there was a massive blast behind the Mech, the assault Mech was picked up by the blast wave like a rag doll and thrown several hundred metres Burton, the brain behind the Mech's movements was nothing but a passenger. The Templar smashed into the ground the LB-X Autocannon arm dug into the ground and was torn away from the Mech's humanoid body as the rest of the Mech continued to tumble through tree after tree barely slowing before it slammed back first into a large group of rocks. “Son of a...†Burton exclaimed after a few minutes shaking his head “so that's why the naval boys and girls like their ships.†She said he really didn't know what else to do, in less than a minute his unit had been torn to pieces by an unseen enemy that he couldn't fight, an enemy that had already cost him more than he had even admitted to himself.
With his Templar completely immobilized by its unprepared flight Burton couldn't even get out the rear hatch of the cockpit instead he was left waiting for his enemy to come and mop him up like any of the other Lancer survivor, if there were any. After what seemed like a lifetime of silence Burton heard the crunch of armour as something began to tear open the cockpit armour. Grabbing his personal laser pistol Burton prepared himself for a fight he probably couldn't win. The cockpit armour suddenly peeled away to reveal a pair of Cavalier Battle Armour suits in colours of the First Davion Guards RCT colours. "How the hell?" Burton muttered as entire roof of his ruined cockpit opened up.
"Sir, the FSS Lucian Davion has arrived, Admiral Beatty wishes to apologies for the delay" one of the troopers broadcast "the enemy Frigate is in retreat along with their aerospace fighters. Are you alright sir?" They asked as Burton relaxed lowering his weapon, whoever had attacked them today had failed to kill him but with the ambush, the ground fighting and the bombardment the First Federated Suns Lancers were all but destroyed.
-
Governor's Mansion, Lollanda
Fomalhaut, District of Dieron
Draconis Combine
2nd October 3088
There were many ways to kill someone Tami Moto reminded herself as she looked at Governor Rianna Lo-Weng the Draconis Combine's figure of power on Fomalhaut. The Governor was a former kick-boxing champion and a member of the DCMS in a straight up fight Tami would have had little to no chance despite the training the DEST had given her. A sniper rifle would be the perfect choice of tool to eliminate Rianna Lo-Weng, impersonal and at a safe distance, but her ISF controller had said they did not want a “messy†death for the Governor. Recently she had spoken in support of the Star League Protectorate just over the border, if the Governor died in a gory, public manner then the population could feel like the DCMS could not protect them and the Governor would become a martyr.
Instead Tami had quietly removed the Governor's personal assistant in a “street-mugging†that had gone wrong. It had been her first kill since her training on Luthien. Not an assassination of an enemy of the combine with the media seeing her target dying but instead a simple Draconis Combine citizen going about his business, in the wrong job at the wrong time. With ISF's help she had applied for and won the position of personal assistant to the Governor then it was simply an observation exercise seeing Rianna Lo-Weng's routine, picking her moment.
Before finishing work each night the Governor had a tendency to have a single glass of Northwind Whiskey, which she had imported, she said that Morgan Hasek-Davion had done the same and it had served him well during his time with the Star League Defence Force. What she always neglected to say is that Morgan Hasek-Davion had done the same while serving as a member of the AFFS while he commanded units to assault the Draconis Combine. As the Governor's assistant Tami slowly eased her self into the Governor's routine, now Rianna Lo-Weng trusted her implicitly even as far as to allowing her to pour her late night drink, one mistake the Governor would not survive.
Placing the glass full of dark liquid on the desk Tami turned to leave the office, she wasn't half way down the main staircase before she heard the glass fall and break from the Governor's hands. She was out of the building and into the night, never to be seen again, before the guards raised the alarm. Within days Rianna Lo-Weng had been reported as dead her successor Kieron Farther was a strong supporter of the Draconis Combine and would keep Fomalhaut on the “right†path. With her duty done Tami Moto now, with her first official kill, was a member of the DEST and all enemies of the DCMS would fear her.
Centrella Black Guards Barracks
New Rocky Mountains, Imarra Island
Sian, Capellan Confederation
7th October 3088
In response to the regiment's actions on Highspire the barracks of the Centrella Black Guards on Sian are the target of a chemical weapon attack. The barracks situated in the isolated New Rocky Mountains on the island of Imarra were struck in the early hours of the morning the chemical gas was quickly drawn into the barracks air condition system and circulated throughout the complex. By the time the relief forces arrived at the barracks 90% of the Centrella Black Guards Regiment were dead.
Lum Habitat, Snow Raven Floating Enclave
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
12th October 3088
High in the atmosphere of Alpheratz a ring of Snow Ravens formed a Circle of Equals in the main hanger bay of the Lum Habitat. On Alpherartz and other Raven Alliance worlds the Snow Ravens had several such habitats that separated the majority of their population from the Outworlds natives. Although the two nations were one it was far easier for the Clan to maintain its traditions on the Floating Enclaves, thousands lived and worked on the surface of the worlds under their control mixing with the local population living by “civilized†here they could be true Clansmen.
Inside the circle of warriors two women circled one the Khan of Clan Snow Raven Lynn McKenna, the other a ristar in Snow Raven Touman Galaxy Commander Sterling McKenna, both were aerospace fighter pilots by birth but today they fought hand to hand. A simple dispute between the two had escalated over the coming weeks to this point now only one would leave this Circle. As they circled punches and kicks were exchanged some connected others deflected both were skilled warriors of the competitive McKenna Bloodhouse had fought conflicts all their lives both in aerospace fighters and unarmed this would not be a short nor an easy fight.
Each of the women continued to circle matching the others blows until Sterling McKenna's younger more athletic frame began to outlast the older Khan. A series of kicks followed by blows finally broke through Lynn McKenna's defences an opportunity that Sterling McKenna was not going to waste. Blow after blow cut into the older warrior until she lost her footing and was on the ground. Offering no respite Sterling McKenna continued to attack the downed Khan with a series of punishing kicks, this battle was about victory there was no room for mercy, Sterling's kicks broke several of Lynn McKenna's ribs as the older Khan tried to regain her feet. A fragment of of one of the ribs went straight through Lynn McKenna's right lung even as she tried to defend herself Lynn McKenna slowly drowned in her own blood, within several minutes she was on the ground slipping into unconsciousness her body unable to continue. Sterling McKenna was named the new Snow Raven Khan there and then, while Lynn McKenna was allowed to die on the deck as were her instructions should she be defeated she had no wish to serve another Snow Raven Khan.
Border conflict
Lyran Commonwealth/Former Free Worlds League
18th October 3088
With the backing from Lyran Naval assets Isle of Skye forces land on the Rousset-Marik Alliance worlds of Dieudonne and Bordon. In orbit over Dieudonne the Rousset-Marik Alliance's only Warship the FWL Kirsten Marik, an Eagle-class Frigate, is destroyed engaging the LCS Morgan Kell, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, the LCS Kevin Tamar, a Fox-class Corvette. On the ground the First Skye Jaegers RCT engaged the Second Rousset-Marik Milita and irregular forces from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. On Bordon the Lyran forces find the First and Ninth Rousset-Marik Militia regiments.
First Federated Suns Lancers Encampment
Chesterton, Capellan March
Federated Suns
25th October 3088
Security had never been tighter in the Chesterton system. The Federated Suns still was not completely certain who had attack Chesterton but it didn't seem like it was the Capellan Confederation or the Draconis Combine the Congress-class Frigate was a design that neither nation fielded only the Clans, the Star League and the Federated Suns itself fielded the design. The ground forces and aerospace units were all advanced technology, the aerospace fighters especially from observations made by the pilots who had battled them, so far no wreckage had been recovered intact as everything appeared to have self destruct mechanisms. For security Burton's bodyguard detachment from the First Davion Guards RCT and the FSS Lucian Davion had remained on station at Chesterton supporting what remained of the First Federated Suns Lancers RCT. A combined-arms brigade of equipment had been pulled together from the scattered unit with the vast majority of that being infantry and battle armour forces. Of the Mechs less than a Battalion had survived, armour had been worse hit as three of their DropShips had been shot down by aerospace fighters while the Lancers' aerospace fighter wings had been completely devastated those that had survived the blockade being forced to land at enemy controlled airfields or ditch in Chesterton's thick forests.
Despite being ranked only at Major everyone continued to defer to Burton's command as had been agreed when they had initially rendezvoused after landing. He was the senior BattleMech pilot but there was two Tank commanders that out ranked him and three infantry officers not to mention the commander of his Bodyguard detachment. Still none accepted command as one put it “you are the heir to our nation, and the one that came up with the plan that saved our ass. You are in command.†Every single one of them had offered him their full support. Today everyone was arrayed in parade formation in the Lancers main base as a single Excalibur-class DropShip landed nearby. As the doors opened an entire company of the First New Avalon Guards RCT exited along with a single Dire Wolf Clan OmniMech still painted in the colours of the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT. Burton knew the mech perfectly he'd seen it nearly every single day of his youth he'd sat in its cockpit although he'd never piloted the Mech. The Dire Wolf stopped short of the unit and a single figure climbed out, unlike most MechWarriors who wore as little as possible within their BattleMech this warrior wore the full uniform of a Federated Suns Field Marshal.
As the warrior approached one of the Lancers' Sergeant-Majors called out for the unit to come to attention everyone including Burton did in unison with a resounding crack that echoed around the base. Burton snapped to attention “sir, allow me to present the First Federated Suns Lancers for your inspection.â€
“You are all heroes of the Federated Suns, your sacrifices, and those who sacrificed themselves so you could be here, will not be forgotten.†First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion said addressing the entire unit “Captain Burton Davion step forward†he ordered his son. Burton took three steps forwards he said withdrawing an item from his uniform pocket “in recognition for your bravery and ingenuity in the facing of the enemy as of this date you will be a Major within the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns with all the responsibilities of that rank.†Victor continued stepping forward to Burton handing him a set of Major insignia before saluting “I am very proud of you son, you did very well.â€
“Thank you sir, a lot of good men and women still died†Burton said in a low voice accepting the insignia
“Unfortunately that is inevitable in what we do. What make us the men we will become is how we deal with these losses and how we move on.â€
“Yes, sir.†Burton replied in a louder voice
“Sergeant-Major, dismiss your men.†Victor called out as the NCO dismissed the Lancers Victor took a step forward “I was sorry to hear about Pamela, it is never easy to loose someone you care for.†Victor said speaking from personal experience reaching out to his son.
“No, sir.†Burton said still formally glancing to the ground
“If you need someone to talk to or time to deal with her passing you can have it†Victor offered
“The Lancers still need me sir, for now I would prefer to remain on duty.â€
“Very well, you will unfortunately not be able to remain with the Lancers for now.†Victor said quietly Burton looked shocked and felt slightly angry these people respected him not just for his name he did not like being parceled from one unit to the next. “It has nothing to do with your unit's condition, or the rest of the AFFS wanting a piece of you.†Victor said smirking seeing Burton's face. “You are coming to Terra with me and your mother is on the Alexander Davion demanding to see her son before he begins to turn gray.â€
“I guess we better not tell her I found my first gray hair last week then.†Burton said joining his father with a smile. Victor laughed as the two walked towards a command tent Burton glanced over at the Dire Wolf still standing on the court-yard “with my promotion can I get a new Mech?â€
“Prometheus is still mine.†Victor said knowing what his son was angling for.
“One day, we'll seeâ€
“One day I'll be dead then you can decide where it goes.†Victor said ducking into the tent
“Promises, Promises†Burton joked gaining a stern look from his father “I'm joking!†Burton laughed “honest†he said glancing at the OmniMech one last time. “I still need a new Mech.â€
“I'll get you one†Victor promised shaking his head as he grabbed his son's shoulder dragging his gaze from the Dire Wolf.
-
This one took a little longer to do than normal but I got there. I want to thank Blacknova for allowing me to use his Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvette and Wudang Jian-class Frigates from his Kapteyn Universe AU detailed on this thread with awesome artwork from rad666.
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/comments-questions-and-input-on-the-kapteyn-universe/get-your-red-hot-warship-art/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/comments-questions-and-input-on-the-kapteyn-universe/get-your-red-hot-warship-art/)
It kinda set the tone for this month of the timeline which you will see below.
Also hopefully going to have a new map for the end of 3088 - again thanks to Blacknova who despite working on a ton of sourcebooks for the KU, and despite my pestering, has agreed to help
I hope you enjoy
SLS Anastasius Focht (Suffern-class Destroyer)
Nadir Point, Terra
Star League Protectorate
1st November 3088
The five hundred-and-forty thousand ton Suffern-class Destroyer SLS Anastasius Focht hovered near the Nadir Point of the Sol System waiting for the next delegate to arrive for the Star League Conference already in the system were House Davion and House Steiner. “Captain, we've detected a radiation flare, the next delegate is arriving.â€
“House Liao is due†Captain Amanda Collins said looking at her display list.
“Yes, sir, the K-F ploom readings seem off for any known Capellan signature.†The sensor operator said. Moments later there was three flashes of light. “Holy crap, there's three of them! Jumping that close together is insane.â€
“Trust House Liao to throw a spanner, look at those ships†Amanda said looking at the central ship it looked more like a stylized phoenix or eagle, while the other two looked like bulked up Merchant-class JumpShips. “is that drive flares from those Merchants?†She said seeing the two smaller ships move away from the larger ship.
“Looks like the Capellans have put engines on some Merchants and called them WarShips.â€
“Negative, there flagged as Magistracy vessels†another crewmen answered.
“The lead ship is communicating with us, they identify themselves as the CCSS Wudang Jian, she says her escort vessels are Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvettes and they are carriers of her children Dao-Shen, Isla and Aleshia. Her captain states that they represent the regions of the Capellan Confederation.â€
“Remind the Wudang Jian that Star League Directive 16/4 dictates that all Succession Lords must take only a single WarShip into the Terran system. And inform them that should they leave the Nadir Point they will be considered hostile combatants despite the Conference.†Amanda Collins said angrily almost every time there was a conference one of the Succession Lords tried something to test the SLDF.
“Yes mam.†The officer replied as Amanda watched the three WarShips all were coloured in the Capellan green despite their identification tags, obviously the Magistracy tag on the vessels was only as deep as a WarShip's sensor scan. Today the Capellan confederation had made a statement with two brand new WarShip classes debuted on the same day with none of the other States or the SLDF even knowing they were under construction.
“Sir, the Wudang Jian has fifteen ports for DropShips, both the Corvettes have two each, between them they could transport several regiments easily no need for JumpShips. Fast mobile.†Her executive officer Jack Reagen said making a quick analysis "nothing to threaten Terra today but the Confederation's neighbours should take note.
"I'm sure they have Jack, keep an eye on everyone, no doubt it won't take long before one of them tests the new Capellan ships. All pilots and guns are to stay green unless targeted or fired on, I don't want any miss-fires."
SLS Anastasius Focht (Suffern-class Destroyer)
Nadir Point, Terra
Star League Protectorate
2nd November 3088
Entering the Anastasius Focht's Command Bridge Captain Amanda Collins brushed sleep crust from her eyes “Jack, this better be the end of the world as we know it.†She said looking at the Holotank seeing what the crew were all looking at the three Capellan vessels still holding near the Nadir Point, along with a new contact which was currently being surrounded by Capellan aerospace fighters. Every target on the holotank was green meaning none had fired but Amanda could only wonder how long that would last.
“You have got to be kidding me†Amanda said looking at the ship it was another Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvette “How many of those things do the Capellans have?†She said looking at her executive officer. "Order the Wudang Jian to call off her fighters, we don't need all their fighters out there, this is our system."
“The Capellans are protesting the presence of the new vessel in Terra space. It has identified itself as the Sgian-Dubh, personal vessel of Duke Cameron Victor St-Jamis Liao, the Capellans are going nuts until that ship jumped in they thought she was still in the shipyard. Defense squadron is standing by.â€
“Negative lets not escalate things with all those Capellans out there one miss turn and this goes to shit. Get us in the Wudang Jian's face and repeat our message that I want their fighters to stand down immediately. Inform them that any weapon discharge from a Capellan vessel, targeted at anyone, will be classed as hostile to the Star League Defence Force.â€
“Captain, Rules of Engagement says the Caspers go into harm before us.†Jack pointed out.
“Yes, but I don't think they will react to well to the drones presence. Everyone knows their reputation no-one knows their reliability. Everyone knows how what the Anastasius Focht has sacrificed when fighting the Word of Blake in ComStar's name and what it would sacrifice again if asked under the SLDF flag.†She said proudly so all the command crew could hear the Destroyer slowly began to move between the Capellan vessels in the path of the Wudang Jian.
“Capellan targeting systems are active†Jack reported “all of them are targeting the Sgian-Dubh.â€
“Bring ours online, countermeasures at ready. Have Caspers move to stand-by locations, no active scans or targeting.â€
“We are being hailed by the Wudang Jian, it is Chancellor Naomi Centrella.â€
“The Chancellor herself? Put her on my screen.†Amanda Collins said glancing at her side monitor “Chancellor, your vessel has been cleared to transit to Terra. Your escorts will have to remain on station at the Nadir point however I need to remind you that active targeting systems in the Terra system are not permitted unless in self defence and your aerospace squadrons should remain in defence of their command vessel not harassing other traffic.â€
“We were simply passing this message to the new arrival and demonstrating to them where their aerospace fighters should be." Naomi said smiling "I trust that the Sgian-Dubh will be brought under control?â€
“We have nothing to do with internal policies of any state.â€
“So their ship will not be allowed to approach Terra.â€
“Their ship will not be allowed near Terra, however any small craft that wishes to visit will not be barred.â€
“This is preposterous! We represent the Capellan Confederation as a full member state of the Star League.†Naomi Centrella said losing her temper, Amanda Collins felt awkward she was a Navy Captain this was a Succession Lord a member of the Star League Council, although Naomi was not Amanda's boss she was somewhere higher along the chain of command. Still the rules were the rules.
“Any small vessel intending no harm to Terra is allowed to approach and land on the planet. That is Terran law, Chancellor, and Star League rules of conduct within this system.†Amanda said firmly, Naomi nodded off camera at a crewman. "Anyone who wishes to visit the homeworld of humanity is welcome."
“They have shut down their targeting systems, Captain†Jack Reagen said quietly to Amanda
“Thank you for your cooperation, Chancellor†Amanda Reagen said “helm move us away.†She said to her crew "Chancellor, enjoy your time in the Terran system."
“And your Hammers?†Naomi asked obviously referring to the three Caspers which had moved to shadow the Capellan force. One of the ships would probably have been enough to cause the Capellans a lot trouble.
“They are no threat, unless your vessels attempt to cause trouble for any other vessel within this system, if you become a threat they are quite effective.â€
"I am sure they are" Naomi said cutting the communication link as the CCSS Wudang Jian fired her main thrusters beginning her transit towards Terra. Her aerospace fighters all immediately broke contact with the isolated Sgian-Dubh and began to chase their mothership.
"Make sure the new arrival understands the terms of their stay in this system and the rules just as well as everyone else." Amanda said glancing at the small ship. Which was probably one of the smallest WarShips ever constructed but still a very potent weapon of war.
-
Trial of Possession
Forest's End, Porozistu Mountains
Tukayyid, Rasalhague Dominion
11th November 3088
For all the Clan's had changed and lost in the years since their return to the Inner Sphere there was two things they generally held in high regard. Honourable combat against an enemy in open combat which pitted each warrior against the next instead of which tactic, or which terrain. The other was tradition, each Clan held close to its own routes and each Clan believed it was honouring the Founder of the Clans, Nicholas Kerensky in their own way. Because of these facts when Clan Wolf declared a Trial of Possession over the city of Skupo on the world of Tukayyid the Rasalhague Dominion took the Wolf wish with respect and honour. Tukayyid was a world disliked by most clansmen it was on this world that the Clan invasion had faltered to a stop for fifteen years the Clans were not allowed to cross the imaginary line drawn across the Inner Sphere by the world of Tukayyid. Fifteen years that the Clans had themselves changed so much that few even considered a unified invasion to be a worthwhile endeavor. The Rasalhague Dominion had inherited the world when they took possession of the remains of the Free Rasalhague Republic they defended it as honour demanded but had done little to the world, the Bears wanted little to do with the world.
With an unwanted possession the Clans generally did not battle for it instead they traded not wasting anything on it. Tukayyid was different however, it's world had history that would forever bind the invaders and passing it like a pallet of goods ignoring that history was not the Clan thing to do. Instead the Eighth Bear Cuirassiers commanded by Star Colonel Angela Bekker had been transferred to the world to meet with Clan Wolf's First Wolf Assault Cluster commanded by Star Colonel Cyrill Sradac. As the defender Angela Bekker had chosen Forest's End at the edge of the Porozistu Mountains as the sight for the trial, it was only a few kilometres from the settlement of Skupo and it had historical significance for Clan Wolf, as it was the sight of the first battle between Clan Wolf and ComStar during the ill-fated Battle of Tukayyid which ended the Clan's invasion.
What Bekker did not consider the Wolves had been victorious at Forest's End, and in the battle following it, Angela Bekker herself a veteran of the Battle of Tukayyid believed that the Wolves return to Tukayyid would not repeat history. After a bidding war between the Star Captains of her Cluster Bekker fielded two Binaries supporting her own command Star, against her forces stood a Clan Wolf force that numbered just two Binaries, she had an entire advantage over the Wolves. "Clan Ghost Bear of the Rasalhague Dominion, I Cyrill Sradac of Clan Wolf, Star Colonel commanding the First Wolf Assault Cluster declare our desire to possess the settlement of Skupo." Sradac began traditionally as the attacker.
"Star Colonel Cyrill Sradac and the Wolves of the First Wolf Assault Cluster, I am Star Colonel Angela Bekker commander of the Eighth Bear Cuirassiers, we defend the Rasalhague Dominion from any aggressor, and we retain all our Clan's Possessions."
"A battle will decide what you Possess, Bear"
"It will Wolf" she replied, it was all ritualized, both officers knew there would be a battle for the last week they had known there would be a battle but history and tradition dedicated this ritual.
"You appear not to have taken all your Cubs to defend what you possess, Quiaff?"
"Aff, I brought plenty to crush your pups." Angela taunted back, it was nice to spar with another Clansmen, even if he was a Wolf.
"We will be the judge of that, Angela Bekker"
"To the Victor, Cyrill Sradac"
"To the Victor" he repeated
"Seyla" they then both said in unison. For several moments there was complete silence over the radio channels as each Clan warrior respected the agreement of the Trial. After the silence however the air was filled with challenges and weapons fire as the two Clan forces engaged in ritual combat. BattleMechs and Battle Armour fought for every inch of the battlefield as the two Clan forces fought following the Clan dueling rights of Zellbrigen, each warrior fighting against one other unit, either one other Mech or five Battle Armoured troopers. The air was filled with fire as the two Clans fought however almost immediately Angela Bekker had noticed something strange in the Wolf force before the Trial she had seen the Wolves possessed a new Assault OmniMech, named the Tomahawk, she had not realized however all five would be deployed together or how devastating they would be. Sitting in the cockpit of her Executioner Assault OmniMech she watched as the five one hundred ton OmniMechs battled straight through the Bear lines.
The Tomahawk was as massive as any Clan OmniMech ever build, designed by Clan Wolf as a successor to the aging Dire Wolf OmniMech the Tomahawk looked very similar to the older design tall with broad shoulders the Mech lacked the over shoulder missile rack of the Dire Wolf but it more than made up for it with its weapon arms. While the Dire Wolf could have as many as five or six weapons mounted in each arm these Tomahawks seemed designed to carry fewer but bigger calibres of weapons. The lead Mech struck a Wolf Mech first with a pair of Gauss Rifle slugs then followed it up with twinned large lasers which cored the lighter Bear Mech in a single salvo. The next looked more like a traditional Dire Wolf with the missile rack over its shoulder but from the devastating arms Particle Cannons beheaded first one Mech then another with terrifying accuracy. A third in the star showered Bear Mechs with advanced tactical missiles and large calibre pulse laser blasts whittling down Bear Armour.
Seeing these Mechs as her units biggest threat Angela accelerated her ninety-five ton machine into range of the enemy star declaring a challenge one of the rear Mechs, the others stepped clear allowing her to close. Her OmniMech was faster than her enemy and she planned to use that to her advantage. Using her own Mech's particle cannon at range she used the Executioners MASC system to supercharge the muscles in the Mech's legs rapidly closing the distance between the two Mechs she opened fire with her Assault class Ultra Autocannon and laser as she closed. Seeing the massive weapon's slugs tear down the side of the Wolf Mech Angela was quite pleased with the results as she turned her Executioner's shifting its course far enough to make the shot tougher for her opponent. The Wolf pilot retained his balance tracking her Mech with his Tomahawk's big arms twisting its turret-like torso to follow the Bear OmniMech. First short range missiles peppered the Executioners legs and back which Angela easily shrugged off however then she saw the Tomahawk raise its arms, where she carried a single assault class Ultra Autocannon, this Tomahawk had two of the massive weapons. The first weapon went wide tearing up some of Tukayyid's long battered landscape the second however tore through the Executioners leg and torso armour causing massive armour damage.
Angela engaged her Mech's jump jet system in an attempt to avoid the Tomahawk's follow up fire but further missile strikes struck her Mech as it flew through the air, as it landed pulse lasers lashed its arms and back. Angela turned returning fire with her Executioner's particle cannon, despite it being one of the strongest weapons in the Clan's arsenal against the massive autocannons of her opponent it was a mere pop-gun this close. Her shot blasted away Wolf armour but the massively armoured Tomahawk continued forward blasting her Mech this time with both autocannons, the Executioners armour breached nearly instantly, Angela Bekker did not wait for the results of the fire she knew already her fight was over. Instead she pulled the ejection cords and her command chair flew from the dying Executioner over the still raging battle.
For Angela Bekker today had brought defeat, for the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion the same result had swiftly followed the Eighth Bear Cuirassers troopers having nothing that could counter the Wolves new Assault OmniMech. Although the Clans honoured and relished victory in combat, there was no dishonour in admitting you were defeated. The Bears at nearly half their starting strength had requested Hegira, Honourable Withdrawal, from the Battle enough blood had been spilled over something the Bears cared little for, Cyrill Sradac had accepted nearly immediately happy the Bears had honoured his Wolves with combat.
Within a few days of the battle the Wolves had taken full possession over the settlement of Skupo. Officially it was a city however for decades people had left the world and now the settlement numbered less than ten thousand. Clan Wolf however had no interest in the local population, declaring Skupo a possession of Clan Wolf they ordered all native and "Bear Immigrant" populations to leave their territory then they began to systematically level the city building by building. What each Clan did within its own territory was an internal matter, the Bears who continued to possess the rest of Tukayyid watched the Wolves but events beyond the world would soon tear Bear attention from the Wolves demolition of a single city. Long known for their long attention spans and slow reaction speeds the Trial had raised the Bear's attention to its enemies actions, but the events of the coming days and weeks would awaken the Bear fury and their desire for conquest.
-
Air Tour over Unity City
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
12th November 3088
The modified Lexan Oceanic VTOL flew slowly over Unity City in the last fifteen years the Terran Government and that of the Star League Protectorate had restored about a quarter of the city to a livable state, now nearly one hundred thousand lived and worked in the city. Much of the buildings needed to be completely demolished before replacements could be built along side this work a tourism industry had been built with dozens of companies showing people Unity City up close with using VTOLs and remote probes. This industry was fueled with demand not just from people of the wider Inner Sphere but also citizens of Terra who for so long had heard stories of the great Unity City but been banned from going near it by both ComStar and the Word of Blake.
Today's flight had been bought out by a single reservation for two people today North American Unity Tours was host to the Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation Naomi Centrella and Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion. The VTOL was being shadowed by four Vector VTOLs all were painted in SLDF Greens however two were piloted by Naomi's bodyguard and two by Danai's bodyguard. Further away an entire squadron of SLDF piloted Vectors maintained a perimetre with orders to shoot down any of the bodyguard aircraft that got too close to the Lexan. In orbit both the FSS Alexander Davion and CCSS Wudang Jian were monitoring the entire situation while beyond them the SLS Covenant shadowed them.
Aboard the VTOL however none of this could be seen the two sisters who had not spoken for several years sat in silence quietly watching the city go past them. “It's impressive what has been rebuilt after all that was lost.†Danai said quietly
“Yes, many thing have changed†Naomi agreed “I wonder what mother would have thought.â€
“She would... have said it is a very different world that we live in.†Danai said after a pause “I wish she could have seen her grand-children.â€
“Yes, her influence could have made a lot of difference to their lives.â€
“Not just theirs†Naomi glanced at her sister and slowly nodded “I think our lives would have been very different should she have survived.†Danai said quietly “are you happy with the choices you've made?â€
“I made the choices I needed to survive. I would make them all again.†Naomi said defiantly
“That's not what I asked†Danai said keeping her voice even.
“I can live with them big sister, are you happy?â€
“Yes†Danai answered simply “my children are healthy, my husband is loving and my home has four walls and a roof. It's all I need†Danai said quietly “I do miss Canopus though.â€
“And it misses you, as do I†Naomi said raising slowly from her chair, the Lexan VTOL normally had a space you could live in this one had been modified to allow passengers to walk around unhindered allowing for spectacular views of the City. Danai rose slowly beside her younger sister. “I sometimes wish my children had an aunt, I have two sisters but sometimes I feel alone, you are lucky to have Victor's family stabilizing your family. Sometimes I feel your influence or even Edre's would have been a calming influence on Dao-Shen, a guide to Ilsa or a guide to Aleshia.â€
“I still could be...†Danai said quietly Naomi chuckled
“No I don't think that would be a good idea. Dao-Shen is much like any member of the Liao family from history†she said nearly spitting the Liao name “he is quite anti-Davion not to mention how you would be stained traveling to Sian, or for him to come to Liao.â€
“Then I meet him somewhere neutral, Fronc, we drop in by Edre, a reunion.â€
“I wish that were possibly, Danai†Naomi said as the VTOL began to turn for base “this has been good†she said turning to her older sister. “It's been nice to be just your sister for this short trip, I'm happy you've got a good life and are happy.†She said leaning in hugging her sister Danai returned the embrace there was something “right†about it that Danai had missed for so many years. As the VTOL flew back to base the two spoke a length about their children and memories of their own childhood before going their separate ways once back on the ground. Everyone knew they were sisters however in public they were representatives of the Capellan Confederation and of the Federated Suns and unless public opinion changed drastically in the near future they would have to remain distant from each other.
Capellan Wing, Whitting Conference Centre
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
13th November 3088
“I am eighteen years old, I don't need to go out and see what is going on I have been here before!†Dao-Shen Centrella shouted at his mother near the top of his voice.
“Quite right you have been here before, but every visit we learn new things. Our people should see that we are here equal to every other state of the Inner Sphere, standing up for what we believe.â€
“Like your trip yesterday?†He questioned, Naomi had not told her son where she had gone yesterday, she knew her oldest born would not understand just like her younger children did not understand why they could not meet their aunt.
“Where I went was none of your concern, now get your things ready and make sure Ilsa has her things too.â€
“Why do I have to take her?â€
“Your sister is only fifteen years old and she has never been to Terra, would you want her to see things that she shouldn't or be put at risk by outsiders?†Naomi asked “you are her brother, you have responsibilities to look after her.â€
“That's why she has a bodyguard.†Dao-Shen muttered turning to get their things.
“I am your mother and you Chancellor, you will do what you are told.†Naomi ordered instead of using her motherly voice she chose her Chancellor's tone and direction if her son would not listen to his mother he would listen to his Chancellor or face the consequences. Instead of arguing further however Dao-Shen continued to get his and his sisters things in order before leaving along with their security detail.
Almost thirty minutes later the doors opened and in entered Protector Erik Martens-Calderon of the Taurian Concordat. “Good afternoon, Erik†Naomi said she'd chosen to dress down for this meeting instead of clothing rich with Capellan greens and golds she wore a dark purple coloured dress that reached the ground.
“Chancellor, an unexpected invitation†he said formally
“One long over due, Erik, after our last encounter I had hoped to see you again.†Naomi said quietly “a drink?†She asked heading over to the bar area.
“No thank you for the offer, I have a meeting with Corrine Marik this afternoon, I would prefer to keep a straight head.†He said Naomi nodded replacing the cap on the bottle turning back towards him.
“Corrine Marik, you move on fast enough, I will get to the point then Erik†she said crossing the room she opened the bedroom door and motioned her daughter into the room “Erik, please allow me to introduce to you Aleshia Centrella, your daughter.†She said quietly revealing the child she was only five years old she had a mix of the dark Canopian skin and Erik's blonde hair.
“My daughter†Erik said smiling kneeling down “hello there†he said quietly, Aleshia side-stepped hiding behind her mother. “You've never said anything...â€
“We've both busy lives, my position in the Capellan state requires that I maintain in a state of control a state I will be keeping. Officially she is a child of Sun-Tzu like my other children. But I thought that you should at least meet her.†Naomi said moving to a couch Aleshia following her sitting on her knee.
“I thank you, Naomi, this means a lot to me.â€
Capellan Press Conference, Whitting Conference Centre
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
14th November 3088
Standing on a podium outside the Whitting Conference Centre Duke Dao-Shen Centrella faced the combined press of the Inner Sphere. “Ladies and gentlemen, I am sorry to announce that last night my mother Naomi Centrella passed away in her sleep. Initial examination suggests she suffered a fatal heart attack and felt no pain. Although I am far from the Celestial Palace I have been declared as the new Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation.†He said pausing for a moment “as my first act as Chancellor I will right a wrong that my mother always regretted making, as of this moment forward my family is restored to its true name Liao. My sisters as future leaders of the Magistracy of Canopus will be known as Centrella-Liao honouring where our family routes are. I will now take some questions.â€
Across the street members of the Star League Intelligence Corps dressed in plain clothes observed the press as they questioned the new Capellan Chancellor. Without any equipment the two had only their own observations to make decisions and judgments “he did it†one said quietly, too quietly for anyone beyond his partner to hear.
“He's barely trying to hide it.†The other agreed
“Maybe lacks the practice?â€
“No, look how he plays with the questions, he knows exactly what they are going to ask and what to say.â€
“He's inherited plenty skills from his father, without the anger of his mother.â€
“More trouble to come from himâ€
“Expect anything else from a Liao?†The other simply chuckled trust the Capellans to keep things interesting.
Across the city Duke Cameron Victor St Jamis-Liao also held a conference speaking out against the “Centrella dominance of the Liao throne†and the “pretender son of a failed leader.†Again watching the young man was a Star League Intelligence Corps team, beyond them were additional Star League security forces from the First Knights of the Sphere who were ready to step in and calm the crowd should Cameron Victor's rhetoric cause too trouble. Fortunately the young noble perhaps sensing that being on Terra it would be best to remain on good terms with his hosts and controlled how the crowd reacted to his words. Although there was little difference in gaining support on Terra as the people had little to do with the Capellan nation. On Terra Cameron Victor's words could be carried across the Inner Sphere instead of stifled by Dao Shen Liao's government. Both rising names within the Capellan state emsuring all eyes on them for the immediate future.
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Lyran Commonwealth Wing, Whitting Conference Centre
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
16th November 3088
Entering the Lyran Commonwealth's Conference Room First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion was surprised to see Commanding-General Archer Christifori, Prime Minister Melissa Allard-Liao and Captain-General Jeremy Brett sitting with his brother Peter Steiner-Davion. “Archon, I wasn't aware you had guests.†Victor said stopping short of the table.
“I'm sorry for the deception.†Peter admitted standing up joining his elder brother. “We need to talk†the Lyran Archon said indicating for Victor to take a seat.
“Welcome to our little conspiracy†Archer Christifori said quietly
“Commanding-General, the last time you were involved in a conspiracy I believe that six members of the Tenth Lyran were up on charges of having contraband on Fort Loudon.†Victor answered taking a seat.
“Charges that were never brought to term†Archer reminded the First Prince smiling.
“Only because we were reassigned to Tharkad.†Victor said “so Peter, I assume this conspiracy isn't about contraband?â€
“If it was it would have to be quite a lot of it, especially given the company around this table.†Jeremy Brett said with a chuckle.
“Not over our borders, Captain-General†Peter Steiner-Davion said quickly.
“Lyrans always buy plenty, Archon Steiner, we don't have to smuggle things across the border.†Brett said Peter could only nod agreeing the Lyran Commonwealth's economy was one of the Inner Sphere's strongest.
“We want you to be the next First Lord†Melissa Allard-Liao said quietly not joining the others banter, she was younger than them all and had been in her position the least time.
“Perhaps not the best idea.†Victor said quietly looking between the other three men. I have not long been First Lord, Peter you are better paced for taking the position and would have my full support.â€
“But not mine†Jeremy Brett said quietly
“Nor mine†Archer said quietly seeing Victor's surprise “currently the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Lyran Commonwealth are engaged on hostilities on their joined border with the Rousset-Marik Alliance. Within the next week Star League Defence Force units will be deployed to the border to break your units up, the retaliation strikes by Lyran forces have done enough.â€
“I hardly agree with you there, Commanding-General it was the Rousset-Marik Alliance that started this conflict, they have only begun to pay.â€
“With the Rousset-Mariks about to be confirmed as members of this council we are obliged to end fighting between member states.†Archer explained
“You are also here to watch the Clan borders, Commanding-General, remember?†Peter reminded Archer quietly Archer had been born in the Commonwealth but Peter could see that he was now a man of the Star League through-and-through.
“Okay how about the Taurians? Erik Calderon hasn't got enough influence to make waves and would likely allow you to remain unmolested Commanding-General.â€
“A Taurian as First Lord?†Archer said quietly “not to mention that he is a Periphery Leader, and we all are aware of what happened the last time someone from the Periphery gained a leadership role close to the heart of the Star League?†None was willing to mention to name Amaris especially not in this city “but a Taurian? They are barely accepted by the SLDF I'm surprised they even accepted the Royal ComGuard Regiment's support.â€
“At least you didn't send the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry, that would have been real trouble.†Victor agreed realizing his mistake and how it could have been a lot worse. “Melissa, you could do it†he said looking at the St Ives leader, as daughter of Clan War hero Kai Allard-Liao she could gain enough support to gain the position.
“No†Jeremy Brett said forcefully “Although I agree that St Ives is the perfect neutral state as the Free Rasalhague Republic once was I'm sorry to say but I will not support St Ives for the position. I wouldn't expect many others to either Prime Minister your nation is too removed for the power in the current climate. The new Capellan leader could see the First Lord, that close as the perfect target to make an example, and with the trouble at Highspire, with Cameron Victor St Jamis-Liao beating the Capellan drum, there is too much of a chance of something going wrong.â€
“I agree with you Captain-General, which is another reason I think the Federated Suns should take the position†the young St Ives leader said turning to Victor “First Prince, you are a Clan War hero like my father was, you have been First Lord before, and you have the firepower to back up something if you need to.â€
“Shotgun diplomacy?†Victor said quietly “is that what this council is becoming about?â€
“Only when it needs to be. You know the Inner Sphere, sire, sometimes the march of the BattleMech speaks far louder than words.†Archer said respectfully “simply put, you take the job or Bannister Cameron could be the next First Lord.†Around the table there was a series of shaking heads and grim looks none of them really wanted a Cameron back in the position of First Lord as few thought if they claimed the position they would never let it go.
“I'm not sure if the people of the Federated Suns will accept it. Within my nation there are many who think that we have given enough to the Star League, with Epsilon Eridani and Sheratan both most likely the next worlds to join the growing protectorate it's hard to blame them.†Victor pointed out looking around the table neither Jeremy Brett or Melissa Allard-Liao could say anything neither had given worlds to the Star League. Although many had been taken from the fractured Free Worlds League or the Chaos March of the Succession States the Federated Suns had committed the most resources and worlds to the Protectorate. Especially within the Capellan March the anti-Star League sentiment was growing within the Federated Suns.
“If Bannister Cameron gained the position they could be asked to give more†Archer said quietly "there are plenty Federated Suns citizens living under the Star League's government daily within the Protectorate. It wouldn't be too much of a push for several more worlds to join them.
“Which the First Lord would be told Arch, turn your eyes away or get them plucked out.†Victor snapped,
“Victor perhaps we could make things easier on you taking the job and make sure Cameron doesn't get near it†Peter said trying to calm his brother. “Several Lyran worlds have been talking to the Star League about joining the Protectorate. I'm ready to authorize their joining the Protectorate and I'll let you announce it.â€
“Skye won't be pleased, they are Isle of Skye worlds?†Victor asked knowing his brother was playing with fire by releasing some of Skye's worlds.
“Skye is quite happy having their own leadership making their day to day choices. They are also looking forward to completing their shipyard and I'm sure I can convince the Triad to release some additional funds to Skye to forward that goal. These worlds already send half their traded goods to the Star League Protectorate an with exception of Murphid none have had a regular LCAF garrison for three years or more. We will allow the militia troopers to make up their own mind on who they want to throw their lot in with, we can negotiate terms with the Commanding-General over the equipment.†Peter said nodding towards Archer.
“Someone's been thinking ahead†Victor said Peter nodded “I want to make this clear, I don't want this job but I also don't want a Cameron to get it, I'll do it.†The others nodded
“Now we just need to worry about what the new Liao Chancellor will do†Archer said quietly
“Been a while since I've heard that†Jeremy Brett said “present company accepted.†He said to Melissa Allard-Liao who only nodded she understood the Centrella name was now replaced by that of House Liao, few saw it as much of an improvement.
Eleventh Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
18th November 3088
As the Eleventh Whtting Conferece officially got underway Commanding-General Archer Christifori officially stepped down as Protector of the Star League. Soon after the votes were cast by the Succession Lords with the St Ives Compact, Duchy of Tamarind-Abby and Lyran Commonwealth all voting together as previously planned. Against them the Draconis Combine, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Taurian Concordat all as expected voted for the Star League Protectorate and Major-General Bannister Cameron. The unpredictable vote was the Capellan Confederation, new Chancellor, Dao-shen Liao surprised everyone by abstaining from voting refusing to support either the Federated Suns or Star League Protectorate.
With the voting tied at three each Commanding-General Archer Christifori cast the deciding vote, naming Victor Steiner-Davion as the new First Lord, citing that he believed the SLDF needed at least for now someone who understood Inner Sphere politics at its helm. Following the vote the Star League Conference was able to begin properly with the Oriente Protectorate and Rousset-Marik Alliance confirmed as probationary members of the Star League Council. Neither of these new nations would have a vote for three years as per all new members to the council although they would be given access to Star League Defence Force support and be included in future Star League meetings and briefings held during this time. These inclusions brought a total of four former Free Worlds League nations under the banner of the Star League with only the Principality of Regulus, Rim Association and the newly formed Bowang Free Trade Sphere not included. None of these three nations had shown the slightest interest in courting the Star League for membership or support.
Eleventh Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
22nd November 3088
Entering the meeting room with Commanding-General Archer Christifori newly named First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion approached the table at one side sat Archon Peter Steiner-Davion, at the other Captain-General Corrine Marik and on the third side Duchess Alys Rousset-Marik. Peter still wore the uniform of a Lyran General of Armies, while both Corrine and Alys wore jumpsuits that more resembled paramilitary uniforms than true line military uniforms. “Thank you for all attending, the Star League would like the fighting to stop quickly and with as little bloodshed as possible.â€
“Have the Lyrans withdraw†Corrine Marik demanded “there was no need for their aggression.â€
“Except three of our worlds were attacked by former-Free Worlds League forces, we have simply retaliated in kind.â€
“In kind?†Corrine asked “you have attacked my nation, seized two of our worlds and assaulted others we attacked no-one.â€
“Legitimate retaliation.†Peter said quietly
“Duchess, your viewpoint?†Victor said turning to the Rousset-Marik Alliance leader the youngest of the three.
“The Lyrans should withdraw from the former-Free Worlds League, they have no place on our worlds no matter what nation they now live under they all belong to the Free Worlds League.â€
“And your nation is at no fault?†Victor probed
“I can not disclose Rousset-Marik force deployments or orders.†Alys said covering quickly.
“Perhaps I can then.†Archer Christifori said placing four files on the table each had the Star League Intelligence Corps insgnia on the front page.
“One second, Commanding-General.†Victor said slyly “Before any of you become over interested in those files each of them contains force deployments for all Lyran, Marik-Stewart and Rousset-Marik forces along each of their respected borders according to their most recent Intelligence Reports.â€
“The fourth folder has the Star League Defence Force's response to your conflict and the support the SLDF will receive.â€
“Support?†Corrine Marik said
“Three Squadrons of AFFS WarShips I am willing to loan to the Star League Defence Force to supplement their own naval forces.†Victor answered “none of us want an extended conflict, the Star League was created to benefit all our nations.â€
“What are your terms Victor?†Peter said with the amount of WarShips Victor spoke of and the firepower the Star League Defence Force could bring to bear his offensive could not continue without significant losses.
“Lyran forces have secured Callison and Dubhe, both worlds appear to have adjusted to Lyran rule and are peaceful?†Victor started Peter nodded “Rousset-Marik forces have withdrawn from Dieudonne leaving the world contested by the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Lyran Commonwealth?†Again Peter nodded followed by Corrine and Alys.
“Lyran Commonwealth forces will retain Callison and Dubhe but withdraw from Dieudonne and I believe Brodon, which is also contested. Rousset-Marik Alliance forces will withdraw claim from Dieudonne which the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth will retain.â€
“Seriously! Millions of my people have to live under Lyran rule through no fault of our own, this is ridiculous.†Corrine Marik said angrily.
“I agree†Victor admitted “however you have one alternative Corrine. You launch a full offensive against the Lyran nation or against the Rousset-Marik Alliance, two steps I do not thing you are ready for. In the battles that follow SLDF forces move into the region and create a buffer zone between all three of your nations, perhaps two or three worlds in total.â€
“The Council would not support such action.†Alys said quietly
“I've already spoken with Jeremy Brett, Vincent Kurita and one of Dao-Shen Liao's aids none would stand in the Star Leagues way as long as the SLDF was not stretched beyond breaking point. With AFFS support I do not believe they would be.†Victor said sternly should these three not accept this deal of his he would have to return to the Federated Suns and convince the High Command that assisting the SLDF in a war that was not their own was a good way to spend resources, something he wasn't even convinced of.
“This is not the Star League's finest hour First Lord†Corrine Marik said quietly “but I will accept it.â€
“As will I†Alys Rousset-Marik said calmly
“The Lyran Commonwealth will stand by the First Lord's decision.†Peter said nodding to his brother.
“Glad to hear it.†Victor said collecting the four folders leaving with Archer Christifori in tow.
“Can I still get those WarShips?†The Commanding-General asked as they walked out.
“Not likely†Victor said quietly “I thought the SLDF already had made plans to increase the size of the navy?â€
“Yes, but yours numbers look better than mine.â€
“The SLDF will soon be there at this rate.â€
Eleventh Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
25th November 3088
As the Whitting Conference came to an end Victor Steiner-Davion stood in front of the other members of the council as First Lord “Ladies and Gentlemen today we depart once more from this great city. The Star League links us all we all contribute to this organization, today the SLS Foscari a Hound-class Corvette built at the McKenna Shipyards of Kathil, the SLS Magdeburg a Coventry-class Corvette at the Port Sydney Shipyards and the SLS Otaka an Inazuma II-class Corvette built at Dieron Shipyards all join the Star League Navy. Each of these vessels built by a member state of this body will first deploy to Terra before accepting other assignments.†Victor began “these contributions show the support we have for this Star League and our intention for it to remain strong.†He said pausing before continuing “with that in mind the worlds of Epsilon Eridani and Sheratan today will officially become member planets of the Star League Protectorate. These worlds have long been valued members of the Federated Suns and their citizens and products will long be welcomed within our nation.†He said pausing again “I will also announce that the worlds of Alua Australis, Zavijava, Chara, Lipton, Denebola and Murphid all of the Lyran Commonwealth have made agreements to join the Star League Protectorate. Following agreements between the Lyran Commonwealth and Isle of Skye governements these worlds will make the transition to Protectorate status over the next six to eight months.†He said pausing again “during my previous terms as First Lord of this Star League I have tried to ensure that the Star League served all its member nations. I will continue to ensure that the Star League Defence Force continues to protect all citizens from unneeded hardship and from Clan aggression, thank you.†He said stepping down from the podium.
Following this meeting the various Succession Lords left Terra to return to their WarShips before beginning there transits back to the Nadir or Zenith points. To ensure none of the states came too close to each other during their travels SLDF WarShips shadowed the Succession Lords for their entire trip. For security reasons Duke Cameron Victor St Jamis-Liao was asked to wait on Terra longer than the rest of the leaders to ensure no mistakes were made while his shuttle returned to its WarShip.
To bring Victor Steiner-Davion up to date about current events with the Star League Defence Force and Star League Protectorate Victor remained on Terra longer than the other Lords in briefings with the Commanding-General and the Advisory Council.
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Long overdue for an update, I actually thought this bit had been posted already (had toothache that's my excuse) so to end 3088 changes a plenty...
SLDF Command Castle Brian
Sandhurst, England
Terra, Star League Protectorate
8th December 3088
Moving from Unity City to the Sandhurst Castle Brian in England Commanding-General Archer Christifori continued to brief the new First Lord on the the Star League Defence Force's possible future strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. As Archer went over what the Star League Defence Force could face the doors of the briefing room swung in and in entered Major-General Bannister Cameron who approached at a marching pace stopping short of the briefing table.
Archer saluted the Major-General before speaking “Major-General, I was not aware you were still on Terra.â€
“I'm sorry sir, I needed to speak with you and First Lord Davion.†He replied
“I see, well you have us and our full attention†Archer Christifori said formally “please say what you need to.â€
“Sirs, Please do not take this as a personal slight however as of this date I am formally handing you my resignation notice from the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry and the Star League Defence Force.†Bannister said remaining at attention as he removed a neatly folded piece of paper from his pocket.
“May I ask why?†Archer asked Bannister had commanded the unit from its service in the first Star League and led the Division into the second Star League's service he was a great influence on the largest formation the SLDF had.
“Sir, it has been an honour to serve the Star League Defence Force again, I consider you to be a worthy Commanding-General, you are a courageous man who is unafraid to lead his men and women from the front." He said to Archer directly "and you have my deepest thanks for the welcome and support you have given my unit and my people.†He began “however you may be aware that last month my aide Andrea Kincaid decided to leave the SLDF?†Archer nodded he'd already considered replacing her with an outsider but wasn't sure who “she did so because we plan to get married and start a family before it is too late." He said smiling lopsidedly to show his unease with the idea of being a husband and father "I could not marry one of my sub-ordinate officers nor can I start a family when I know I may be deployed off Liberty.â€
“I'm sorry to see you go Major-General, but I think I speak for both myself and the Commanding-General when I say that we understand your reasons and wish you the happiness you deserve. It isn't as scary as you think Bannister just one step at a time, that's how I've done it, with the right partner it's easier.â€
“Thank you First Lord Davion, Andrea is the right person that I'm sure of. I plan to continue to serve the people of Liberty as their representative and if they will accept it the people of the Star League Protectorate.â€
“They would be wise to accept your continued service your voice has served the Star League worlds very well thus far†Archer Christifori said “do you have a suggestion for who should command the Division in your absence?â€
“I would suggest Lieutenant-General Ryan Fox, commander of the Thirty-first BattleMech Brigade, he is my most senior Brigade Commander. Behind him Lieutenant-General Joe Garneer, commander of the Fifth Light Infantry Brigade, is most senior.â€
“Thank you for your service to both the First and Second incarnations of the Star League Bannister Cameron it has been an honour.†Victor said shaking Bannister's hand.
“You will be missed†Archer Christifori said following Victor's handshake and them giving Bannister a final salute which Victor followed. Bannister Cameron for the last time snapped to a parade stance salute before turning marching from the room. Archer turned to Victor neither was surprised “almost as we expected based on the Intelligence report we received off of Liberty.â€
“Indeed he really does want the top job†Victor remarked “although I could see it in his eyes he's looking forward to family life there are a lot more motivations behind this. By removing himself from the SLDF chain of command he shows the people that his words are not driven purely by a desire to see his unit and the new Star League survive, this is why I didn't want this damned job I have enough to deal with with the Sandovals and Haseks now I've got a Cameron breathing down my neck too thanks." Victor said throwing Archer a mocking annoyed look "what about the officers he suggested.â€
“Both very solid and both very committed to the Star League Defence Force. Both also very loyal to Bannister Cameron.â€
“I would be surprised if any of that Division are not, that entire unit is bound by something far deeper than loyalty, the experience of what they have gone through will unite them deep than anything else. There you're troops Arch, but I'd be inclined to take Bannister's suggestions.â€
“I was going to offer it to Fox when I read the intelligence report about Bannister's plans and Kincaid's resignation, he's currently commanding the detachment on New Olympica but I'm sure Jennifer Hall, the commander of the Ninety-fourth Royal BattleMech Division, can keep things together until they return.†Archer thought quietly “I'm going to offer the aide position to Lt. Colonel Nicole Markesan of the Second Royal BattleMech Regiment.â€
“An outsider?â€
“It's about time†Archer said “that Division's loyalty to itself could mean it becomes isolated if it doesn't start interacting with the rest of the SLDF their deployments to New Olympica was the start but certainly not the end.†He continued “Nicole is ready for a bigger responsibility the Second is a nice stepping stone to her own Brigade Command.â€
“One crisis passed?â€
“We'll see†Archer said quietly “Bannister will probably be more trouble for you in the long term.â€
“Don't remind me†Victor said flicking over the pages of the Commanding-General's briefing instead of thinking about the trouble Bannister Cameron could be in his new role, so much for his retirement plans he wanted to spend the next while preparing Burton for his position but with the role of First Lord now he had two jobs to think about. His eldest son could continue to play soldier for a little longer.
Royal Hospital, Sandoval Family Wing
Castle Robinson, Robinson,
Draconis March, Federated Suns
14th December 3088
As the Succession Lords vote on a new First Lord and celebrate the continued stability of the Star League Duke Tarncred Sandoval celebrates becoming a father for the second time as his son Duncan Sandoval is born on Robinson within the halls of Castle Robinson. The child is on his due date almost precisely and is very healthy.
Capellan National Broadcast
Forbidden Palace, Forbidden City
Sian, Capellan Confederation
20th December 3088
Arriving back on Sian new Chancellor Dao-shen Liao addresses the Capellan people almost immediately. During the announcement he praised the work that his mother had done to make the Capellan Confederation and all people prosperous however he also stated it was a time for the return of House Liao. He also announces that his younger sister Ilsa Centrella-Liao will be the future leader of Magistracy of Canopus Magestix.
Almost immediately after the broadcast Dao-shen Liao turned his personal laser pistol onto Warrior House leader Hadji Doru executing him with a single shot to the head. He then declared that Doru's Warrior House were to be stricken from the ranks of the CCAF and that newly named Sang-jiang-jun Erin Trinneer would command the CCAF. No-one knew exactly who the new Sang-jiang-jun was or her history however she demonstrates her brutality by personally executing several of the officers that had served Naomi Centrella.
LCDS Hessen (Isegrim-class DropShip)
Baltazar III, Timbuktu Theatre
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd December 3088
Attached to its JumpShip the Lyran Commonwealth DropShip Hessen sat immobile as the crew re-armed its conventional and Sub-Capital missile arrays. Newly promoted Hauptmann Jessica Steiner moved through the hull carefully navigating the micro-gravity passing the crewmen as she reached the commander's quarters. Activating the door chime she was allowed entry “Hauptmann Jessica Steiner reporting as ordered, sir.†She said drifting into the quarters locking her magnetic boots just short of her commander's desk.
“Welcome aboard the Hessen, Hauptmann.†Her new commander said raising from his desk.
“Thank you sir†Jessica replied crisply
“I was surprised to see your request, most of you hotshot pilots look forward to a squadron command?†He asked quietly in her last two years on the Lyran Commonwealth/Free Worlds League and Cirincus Federation she had prove herself in aerospace combat destroying ten aerospace fighter and sharing in a raider DropShip kill.
“Not for me sir, I'm looking to make a further difference in defence of our realm.â€
“Jessica Steiner, I will warn you now I expect from all my staff to preform to their best despite their upbringing.â€
“I have not played on my upbringing until now, I have no plans on it now Hauptmann-Kommandant. Instead I plan on to learn everything I need to and become an asset for this crew.†She said her new commander looked at her approvingly and nodded.
“Welcome aboard Hauptmann.†He said shaking her hand “get yourself settled, we leave in a couple of hours I expect you to be on the bridge.â€
“Yes sir†Jessica said saluting before releasing her boots from the deck and drifting back into the corridor she planned on spending the next couple of hours learning her way around the eight-and-a half thousand ton Isegrim-class DropShip.
Zenith point, Lucian Carns (Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser)
New Port Royal, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
30th December 3088
There was a flash of light at New Port Royal's Zenith Jump Point as a vessel jumped in this happened quite often in the system Clan Nova Cat JumpShips would arrive and leave bringing away combat vehicles manufactured on the world and bringing in personnel and weapons. This particular flash was not a Nova Cat JumpShip or even a Nova Cat WarShip instead it was something far more exotic it was a Nightlord-class Battleship, the Atropos, under the command of Clan Goliath Scorpion.
As the New Port Royal's defending WarShips Lucian Carns, an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, and the Bond, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, approached they could see the Atropos was damaged quite badly with laser burns and weapon impacts marking her hull. “Can you raise them?†Star Admiral James Bavros, the commander of the Lucian Carns, asked looking over the ship. The battleship was battered from bow-to-stern but even a damaged the Nightlord would be a serious threat to his two WarShips. The other ships of the Naval Star the White Aerie and Path of Honour would soon be ready to jump into the system to assist them a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser and another Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser would be very useful right now. Even as James thought of reinforcements an entire Star of Aerospace Fighters launched from the Nightlord's belly providing the Atropos with a basic defence screen.
“Sir, on communications.â€
“This is Star Admiral James Bavros commander of the Lucian Carns. You are in Nova Cat claimed space declare your intentions or be classed as hostile.â€
“This is Star Commodore Steven Elam, the Goliath Scorpion vessel Atropos, we are on a Seeker mission and have no hostile intentions. We will not approach your world without authorization.â€
“Hold position at the Zenith point.†James Bavros ordered “keep an eye on them if they fire a thruster the wrong way I want to know. Communications get New Barcella, we need the Oathmaster here ASAP.†James ordered his crew despite commanding a Nova Cat naval star authorizing another Clan onto a Nova Cat planet was beyond him with the Khan's ship still en-route from the Homeworlds with hopefully the Khan or saKhan aboard Oathmaster Zane Carns was technically the most senior Nova Cat in the Nova Cat's Den, individual Galaxy Commanders and WarShip Star Admirals could make decisions as needed for defence if Atropos had attacked for example James Bavros had full authorization to call in every naval asset he could to put down the Nightlord but landing on the world without an attack, trial or even declaration of their desires that was different and needed a voice with greater clout.
Instead the Lucian Carns and Bond held just beyond weapons range watching the Goliath Scorpion vessel, wherever it had been it had been through hell more detailed scans showed one of the DropShip collars was completely fuzed and half the BattleMech alcoves the lined the ventral section of the ship were completely exposed to space. Hopefully once the new year and the Oathmaster arrived the Nova Cats could get some answers not only about what had happened to the Atropos but also what was happening to the Clan Homeworlds.
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Missed the last update, nice one.
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Missed the last update, nice one.
Thanks a combination of bad health and a visit to the dentist my writing has slowed slightly hopefully I can get back into the swing of it this week
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Nice, I for one am looking forwards to it.
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Another long overdue update but I got there eventually
3089
Warrior House Rakhasa Raid
Canopus, Magistracy Commonality
Capellan Confederation
5th January 3089
In a completely unprovoked attack on Canopus Warrior House Rakhasa under the direct command of Cameron Victor St Jamis-Liao assaults the Magistracy Commonality's capital. The young Liao noble declares that a true Capellan Chancellor would not hand power to a regent so easily and that the young Majestix Ilsa Centrella-Liao is not ready for the position Dao-Shen Liao has given her. In an effort to prove this point Warrior House Rakhasa assaults the Second Canopian Light Horse Regiment destroying the regiment to the man before retreating in the face of more determined Canopian defences. How Cameron Victor's forces entered or escaped the system is unknown as they did not use JumpShips at regular points or at normally monitored pirate points.
Inexperienced Majestix Ilsa Centrella-Liao promises her people that “The Terrorist claiming to be a member of Liao blood would pay for the Canopian blood he had spilled with his own.â€
Naming Ceremony, Forbidden Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
9th January 3089
In an effort to bolster opinion within the Capellan Confederation Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao announces that the Death Commandos have been reborn on Sian at his command and will serve as guardians of the Forbidden Palace and will act as his hand in all things. He commands that any word given from an officer of the Death Commandos is to be taken as if it were a word from him and that failure to listen to such words will result in death.
He also announces the birth of a new Warrior House, Tsang Xiao, which will reinforce the depleted ranks of the Warrior Houses and strike fear into the Capellan Confederation's enemies. Finally he announces the launch of the CCSS Hendrick Liao, the first of the Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City)-class of Destroyer, which has launched from the Victoria system and will be assigned to that system's future defence. He fails to mention that the Zi-jin Cheng-class is in fact nearly identical to House Davion's Davion III-class Destroyer only with a Capellan styled face lift. Or that the Hendrick Liao is in fact the FSS Cunningham a Federated Suns built Davion III-class Destroyer captured by the Capellan Confederation when they retook the Victoria system.
Goliath Scorpion Landing Zones
New Port Royal, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
13th January 3089
By order of Oathmaster Zane Carns the Goliath Scorpions had been allowed to approach and land on New Port Royal even before the Oathmaster's ship had arrived. With the Atropos hanging over them the Goliath Scorpions remained within their defence positions to begin with however slowly they begin to explore areas of New Port Royal not occupied by the Nova Cats.
Each time the Goliath Scorpions are approached and questions the Nova Cats are given the answer that the Goliath Scorpions are searching for a Star League-era cache that they had found reference to in records obtained during their last trip to the Inner Sphere. When asked the Goliath Scorpions refuse to speak of the Clan Homeworlds other than to say they are from Huntress which has so far been left out of much of the fighting. When pushed on the matter the Goliath Scorpions refuse to speak further only to say that if they Nova Cats wish to trial for the information the Scorpions will take from them as many Mechs and Battle Armour suits as they give out facts.
Scientific Meeting
Tukayyid, Rasalhague Dominion
Clan Occupation Zones
19th January 3089
The Inner Sphere and Periphery Clans meet once more on Tukayyid to discuss the continuing genetic issues faced by each of the Clans which is less severe now than previously but still abnormally high. Each of the Clans, except for Clan Jade Falcon which has already reduced its scientist caste through internal purging, show proof of finding scientists that have been working against the wishes of their Clan and acting in a fashion which could only be described as non-Clan. Overseen by the warrior caste each of the Clan's Scientist Castes declare members of their own caste as Dezgra releasing them from their Caste. The Warrior Caste then sends members of their Watch organizations to kill these scientists. The Collateral damage from these assassinations varies from Clan-to-Clan and target-to-target with some pursuing the minimal disruption and damage with a simple knife to the back of the target. While others take a far more drastic approach ensuring that the scientist and those that worked with them are killed as quickly and completely as possible with a naval autocannon blast which “accidentally†fired.
By the end of March 3089 Clans Wolf, Ghost Bear, Nova Cat, Hell's Horse, Snow Raven and Sea Fox have accounted for more than six hundred rogue scientists and their associates within their own occupation zones. Although the Clans' genetic problems are far from over each Clan finds that their efforts to combat the problems are now lessened as there is no-one working against the wishes of the Clans.
Border Skirmish
Indicass, St Ives Compact
22nd January 3089
In an effort to test both the St Ives Compact response and abilities and to test their new WarShip the CCSS Wudang Jian, the first Wudang Jian-class Frigate, the Capellan WarShip jumps into the Indicass system and attacks several trade JumpShips capturing them rapidly using the threat of WarShip grade weapons being used. The St Ives Compact responds by dispatching the Davion III-class Destroyer the SIS Justin Allard to the system.
What follows is a series of intricate WarShip moves almost live an up-scaled chess match as each of the two WarShips and their attending DropShips and fighters try to out maneuver the other. After several hours of move and counter move the Capellans retreat from the system having lost six DropShips and captured two JumpShips. The Justin Allard had lost both its DropShip escorts but defended the remaining three JumpShips.
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Good to get a new update.
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Agreed.
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Back to do some more writing and about time...
Caerleon, Planetary Capital
Cavanaugh, Cavanaugh Theatre
Bolan Province, Lyran Commonwealth
9th February 3089
After nearly sixty-two days in space Duchess Jessica Steiner was happy to have solid ground under her feet. She loved flying and she loved space but she could never live there she needed to go ground side every now and then and enjoy the smells unique to a planetary atmosphere take in some of the culture she was protecting. As her DropShip had landed for resupply on the world of Cavanaugh II Jessica had decided to go for a walk through Caerleon the planetary capital. Her bodyguards from the Royal Guards were told she wanted some space she knew where they were but so far they had allowed her to mingle with the crowds at the street market. She moved stall to stall looking at the goods on offer no-one here knew who she was other than the LCAF Uniform she wore none knew she was Heir to the Lyran Throne and she liked that. So far she'd kept away from reporters her face was still repetitively unknown despite her father's wishes that she gain a higher standing with the people.
As she moved she enjoyed taking to several of the vendors but she began to be aware of two men who had been shadowing her so far she hadn't gained a good look at them, she didn't think much of it believing they must be part of the security detail. She'd talk to the detail commander when they returned to the base she thought as she moved to the next stall. As she moved however Jessica quickly became aware that the two men were walking up to her quickly turning to tell them to back off one of the men came closer on the right side of his neck she saw Roman lettering from ancient Earth and from the Marian Hegemony she began to speak when the man continued forward “With the Caesar's complements†he said lashing out at Jessica with a double sided blade which slit straight into her stomach “LONG LIVE THE CAESAR! LONG LIVE THE MARIAN HEGEMONY!†The man shouted as Jessica fell to the ground moments later he was joined by the second man standing over the Duchess. A loud “CRACK†cut across the market space followed rapidly by a second. Moments later both men fell to their ground as sniper rifle rounds ripped through their skulls. Medics ran in to recover Jessica's fallen form she was alive but her breathing was shallow.
Days later Lyran Commonwealth units and mercenaries under Lyran hire raided several Marian Hegemony worlds as the Commonwealth took revenge for the attack. Unofficially a state of war existed between the two realms.
Sea Fox Trading Enclave
Twycross, Clan Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
14th February 3089
In a move that not only angers the Hell's Horses but also proves to be a lucrative move by Clan Sea Fox's Fox's Whelps Khanate the enclaves on Twycross produce the first Sea Fox Pelican-class Landing Craft. Although the Sea Fox's see much little use for themselves they are far more open trading partners than the Hell's Horses and offer the Small Craft up to the other Clans. The Wolves, and Jade Falcons show very little interest neither does Clan Wolf (in-Exile). The Rasalhague Dominion take a small interest as do the Snow Ravens while Clan Nova Cat offers to trade couple of vehicle designs for the design securing the right to produce their own craft.
Naval Assault
Highspire, Liao Commonality
Capellan Confederation
22nd February 3089
After one disaster in the Highspire system the Capellan Confederation returns to the system with the CCSS Talon Zhan, an Impavido-class Destroyer, and CCSS Hadji Doru, a Feng Huang-class Cruiser/Carrier. As soon as they enter the system however they realize something is wrong as dozens of drone controlled fighters begin to assault the Capellans committing suicide runs on the two capital ships and their DropShips. After nearly six hours of failed attempts to break the Highspire lines the Capellans retreat with damage to both WarShips and over half of the Capellan fighters and DropShips destroyed.
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Good to see this back underway, think the Marians may have been set up.
Either that or they've made a big mistake.
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It's nice to finally have some spare time on my hands. This month is particularly big mainly due to the bit I developed with David CGB which can be found http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/stories/raising-the-bear-(a-what-if-timeline-with-thanks-au-story)/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/stories/raising-the-bear-(a-what-if-timeline-with-thanks-au-story)/) if you would prefer to read it solo.
With that in mind I've split March 3089 into two bits.
Silverdale, Alshian
Alshian District, Rasalhague Dominion
1st March 3089
Without warning Clan Ghost Bear is rocked to its core as a series of suicide bombings occur in Silverdale the Clan's capitol city on Alshian, the bombings happen at nearly the same time locally throwing the entire city into chaos. These bombings targeted to densely packed areas kill nearly three hundred people and injure hundreds more. As a precaution against further attack and to stop further injuries from debris and shrapnel the local Constabulary forces order everyone to remain within their designated buildings. This included those within the Unity Building at the heart of the city. Built by Clan Ghost Bear as a place the Clan could meet with the local Rasalhague people and make decisions for the entire population the Unity Building was a symbol of the Rasalhague Dominion's efforts in successfully merging Clan and Inner Sphere cultures and populations. A building that's very name was designed to inspire the people of the Rasalhague Dominion to better themselves for the future was designed and built to the highest of Clan standards, with everyone ordered to stay within their designated buildings the Unity Building literally locked down shutting itself off from the outside world as the computers running its environmental systems took over.
The design of the building and its symbolic nature made it the target of the second round of attacks, as the Ghost Bears tried to tend to those injured in the streets of Silverdale a bio-chemical agent was released into the Unity Building's air conditioning and environmental systems, before the computers could detect this agent and purge it a cyber attack was launched on the building confusing the basic computer minds forcing the entire building to remain under lock-down. By the time the three hundred-and-sixty-two people within the building realized what was happening it was almost too late with many dying within the first few minutes. By the time the Ghost Bear Constabulary breached the building's containment there were only twelve people alive, all in critical condition, within the building's server and control rooms the Ghost Bears found four terrorists each of whom had committed the act of Seppuku, ritual suicide, an act common within the neighbouring Draconis Combine. Among the dead within the Unity Building was Khan Bjorn Jorgensson, leader of the Rasalhague Dominion, and almost his entire senior support staff. Immediately the Ghost Bears called for a Clan Council and for all Bloodnamed warriors to return to Alshian.
Three days after the attacks the Clan Watch confirmed that all four terrorists found within the Unity Building were former members of the Second Sword of Light Regiment of the Draconis Combine Mustered Society. Each had recently been declared as ronin from their unit for unspecified reasons. Nearly a week after the attacks as Ghost Bear Bloodnamed warriors streamed onto Alshian the Watch confirmed that the chemical weapons were of a variety that was produced on Dieron during the Star League-era, although the Watch had no evidence to support any claim that they were produced there now
Nadir Point, Nicholas Kerensky (Texas-class Battleship)
Tamar, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
6th March 3089
“Star Admiral, emergence wave from a single vessel detected as expected.†One of the crewmen reported looking at Star Admiral Stephen Fetladral, the senior naval commander within Clan Wolf's Touman.
“Deploy Isegrim Star.†He ordered “helm move us in. Have Isegrims move to escort positions.â€
“Aff, Star Admiral, we are expecting this ship Quiaff?â€
“Aff, but so may the other Clans.†He said raising from his chair as the ship began to move the gravity steadily increasing as the Texas-class Battleship gained speed. As the Texas reached one gravity of speed the ship they had all waited for arrived. “State of vessel†Stephen Fetladral demanded looking at the holotank image himself.
“Fifty-two percent of the vessel is open to space. Engines at minimal power over half the weapons are gone and†the crewmen said looking up at Fetladral “Admiral, three DropShips intact on the hull.†There was a calm over the bridge as others looked to Stephen.
“Have Isegrims secure the vessel. Order the DropShips aboard the Dire Wolf to disengage and form with us. Set a course for Tamar orbit.†Stephen said watching as the three Overlord C-class DropShips disengaged from the heavily damaged Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser. “Inform the Khan we are en-route.â€
Six days later the Nicholas Kerensky and the three DropShips arrived in orbit over Tamar. During the transit all three Overlord Cs had continuously changed their positions and maintained complete radio silence. Stephen Fetladral admired the crews professionalism despite the fact his Nicholas Kerensky could destroy them all in a single volley had he wanted then again anyone who knew what was aboard the DropShips would want to capture it and the cargo intact.
All three DropShips came down slowly towards the surface only to be met by Khan Nathan Fetladral and saKhan Jennifer Winson leading Alpha and Beta Galaxies. Together with the troops that exited the DropShip the Wolves escorted the cargo from one of the DropShips. Traveling through the Tamar's Capital the Wolves escorted the cargo to the Wolves Primary Genetic Repository finally safeguarding the bloodline of the Kerensky's, the most sacred of all of the Clan Bloodlines. The Bloodline of the Clan's Founder.
Silverdale Spaceport, Alshian
Alshian District, Rasalhague Dominion
8th March 3089
Nearly a week after the initial attacks on Silverdale a second "attack" occurs a DropShip, carrying Loremaster Rodrigo Jorgensson, explodes in mid-air. The Vanir type DropShip crashes out of control on approach towards the Silverdale Spaceport killing everyone on board and over one hundred ground staff. Although these is no evidence to prove this attack was orchestrated by the Draconis Combine the Ghost Bears already angry at the first attack are furious at this newest incident. As news began to spread, of the attacks on Alshian, to Ghost Bear units on the Draconis Combine border anger boiled within the Clan warriors ranks their enemy so close, without their Bloodnamed warriors to keep discipline in check individual units began to launch raids on the worlds of Kiesan, Najha, Chandler, Pilkhua and Numki. These raids completely unexpected overwhelmed the Draconis Combine's Second District of Benjamin Regulars, the First Amphigean Light Assault Regiment and three mercenary units.
The Ghost Bear troops not held back by thoughts of honour or by the leadership of their bloodnamed warriors wiped out the defending Inner Sphere troops to the man slaughtering even surrendering troops and support staff. On hearing of their units actions against the Combine the Ghost Bear Clan Council ordered all units to hold their positions until further notice, they do not however order the units who were on recently captured Draconis Combine worlds to fall back.
Silverdale, Alshian
Alshian District, Rasalhague Dominion
12th March 3089
Following further analysis of the attacks on Alshian by Clan Ghost Bear's Watch the Rasalhague Dominion confirms that the terrorists found within the Unity Building following the attack were agents of the Draconis Combine and that the bio-chemical agent was in fact manufactured on the world of Dieron. Presented with this information the Ghost Bear Council and Rasalhague's Unity Council vote for war with the Draconis Combine.
By vote of the council Free Rasalhague Republic Prince and Ghost Bear saKhan Ragnar Magnesson is promoted to the position of Khan. Ragnar captured during the initial Clan invasion had served both with Clan Wolf and with the Ghost Bears for many years in 3087 his bloodline had been added to the Ghost Bear genetic pool and the Magnesson Bloodhouse had been founded with Ragnar being its first and so far only member, Bear scientists had already began the Bloodhouses breeding program but it would be years before more were born to the house. The New Khan refuses to name targets for the Invasion of the Draconis Combine however the world of Dieron features heavily on many's thoughts.
With the rise of Ragnar Magnesson the new Khan names Star Colonel Angela Bekker, commander of Eighth Bear Cuirassiers Cluster of Delta Galaxy the Blitzkrieg Galaxy, as his new saKhan. Although she was recently defeated on Tukayyid fighting against Clan Wolf her dealing with the Wolves and dealing with defeat have endeared her to many, and the Clan Council see her potential supporting the Khan's choice.
Two days later Galaxy Commander David Bekker was named as the new Clan Loremaster. David Bekker commander of the Ghost Bears newly risen Epsilon Galaxy, the Polar Bear Assault, was seen as a strange choice by many however his close friendship with Ragnar Magnesson was attributed to this appointment. This twin appointments of David Bekker and Angela Bekker before him promotes the Bekker Bloodhouse to its highest position among the Bloodhouses for many decades. With their leadership ready the Rasalhague Dominion prepare for their assaults on the Draconis Combine, unlike their initial attacks now fully supported by the Clan.
The Warrior's Hall, Saso City
New Syrtis, Capellan March
Federated Suns
14th March 3089
To great fanfare across New Syrtis and beyond The Warrior's Hall welcomes Duchess Kym Hasek into its ranks as a trainee cadet ready to join the AFFS. The Daughter of deceased Baron George Hasek and the heir to the New Syrtis throne she is escorted on her first day by her mother Duchess Deborah Hasek and her uncle Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek.
For both the Hasek family's security and for the wider security of the AFFS the DMI and MIIO keep a very close eye on the proceedings casting a wide net around the Warrior's Hall. On Nathaniel Hasek's instruction these Intelligence Agencies do not disrupt day to day life for the people of New Syrtis but they watch everything.
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Border skirmish, Lyran Commonwealth Raid
Marian Hegemony, Periphery
16th March 3089
Following suspected Marian Hegemony actions on Cavanaugh II the Fifth Alliance Guards RCT launches a raid on the Marian worlds of Lordinax and Lothario. One of the last remains of the Lyran Alliance Armed Forces the Alliance Guards are in their final tour as an Alliance Guard badged unit before their recall and disbandment. Intent on going out on a high the unit acquits itself well on both targeted worlds engaging elements of Caesar Katrina Ward's Second Ward's Hunters Cluster supported by small mercenary units.
On Lothario the Fifth Alliance Guards finds itself ambushed by the Marian defenders and they lose a company of BattleMechs before making their escape. Following the raid the unit returns to the Lyran Commonwealth and as per their orders heads for Bolan for disbandment and re-badging as the Second Commonwealth Guards RCT.
Star League Stadium, Solaris City
Solaris VII, Lyran Commonwealth
Star League Protectorate
19th March 3089
The weapons fire within the Star League Stadium on Solaris VII had very recently ended and there was only one BattleMech still standing. Painted bright green with darker green and orange highlights the Mech was impossible to miss. Standing twelve metres high the Mech's entire body was covered in laser scars, missile strikes and autocannon potmarks. Around the arena the crowds screamed some with joy, some with anger and some purely because of the spectacle they had seen. It was the Sixteenth Star League Games of Solaris and there was one clear winner as the announcer was clear to point out. “Well, well, well Ladies and Gentlemen boys and girls we have witnessed a schooling today. Alexi Marks has been kicked to the curb. Magrita Stuart does know how to lose and defending champion Max Tredinnick will not claim glory tonight. Instead MechWarrior Isabella formerly of Clan Jade Falcon claims glory today in her Kraken XRI. I don't know what the XRI stands for ladies and gentlemen but if any of you want to ask her feel free just don't expect the answer to be free also.†He said as the Kraken turned slowly in the gaze of the arena even for a clansmen Isabella had a taste for the dramatic. “Given the decoration on her Mech I'm not entirely convinced she has given up all her ties to her former Clan... but that's something else you can try to confirm yourselves ladies and gentlemen as this is one announcer that is just not brave enough to ask.†The announcer admitted as the Kraken finished its turn and leveled its weapon arms at the announcement box. There was no way the Rotary Autocannons there could penetrate the armour around the box but the message from pilot to announcer was quite clear. “Until next time Ladies and Gentlemen I am Lester Goodchild signing off, I hope you enjoyed the show, stay tuned to the after game show with Miss Samantha Steele who will be bringing you an interview with the victor and some of her victims. All of that and much more after these commercial announcements.†He said the last image of the Sixteenth Star League Games on Solaris VII was of the Kraken XTI marching off the field into the hanger bay.
Omni-Paradise Hotel, Orestes
Orestes District, Rasalhague Dominion
20th March 3089
Just as Rasalhague Dominion units begin to move on the Draconis Combine worlds of Shirotori, Caldrea and Sulafat a massive explosion demolishes the Omni-Paradise Hotel on Orestes killing three hundred-and-seventy-eight civilians, four members of the Rasalhague Dominion's Unity Council and Selanna Jorgensson, head of the Jorgensson Bloodhouse. A second attack twelve hours later rocks the world of Rasalhague killing six hundred civilians and thirty-eight warriors as a train is derailed near the centre of the capital city. In both occasions the Watch determines that the explosives originated from the Draconis Combine but that Motstand, the Rasalhague Dominion's native revolutionary/terrorist organization, had conducted the attacks. Khan Ragnar Magnesson orders all Rasalhague Dominion forces to cease attacks on the Draconis Combine postponing their invasion for a second time as he charges the Ghost Bear Watch with tracking down and finally eliminating the Motstand organization.
A Canopian led offensive into the Former Free Worlds League nets the Capellans seven worlds. Canopians debut their new Arrow IV Assault Vehicle in the fighting. Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao leads the Centrella Black Guards in an attack on Ukongoro his first documented open battle.
Hayden Arms Estate, Orestes
Orestes District, Rasalhague Dominion
23rd March 3089
Following the terrorist bombings and the Khan's order the Watch aggressively pursued Motstand members using any and all means across the Rasalhague Dominion Watch Strike Teams hit believed Motstand hold-outs, some are empty however others are far more active. Three days after the Orestes bombing Watch forces tracked Albert Gronvold-Minami down to the Hayden Arms Building Estate on Orestes. Unveiling their new anti-insurgent Battle Armour, the Constable, the Watch troopers assaulted Albert Gronvold-Minami and his supporters with teams using the Constable's heavy Grenade Launchers to flush out defenders into the path of Rogue Bear Battle Armour suits using heavy machine guns. Even though the Bears had a massive advantage in resources and firepower the fighting quickly spread over six blocks of the building estate as further Motstand supporters came out engaging the Bears from several angels. After several hours of fighting two hundred-and-twelve civilian, eighty-four terrorist, and six Watch paramilitary police troopers deaths.
Albert Gronvold-Minami was killed trying to escape in a Baily Armoured Car as he attempted to breach the Ghost Bear cordon. According to initial reports he survived the vehicle's destruction but was executed on the spot by Ghost Bear troopers. Across the Rasalhague Dominion opinion polls were split on whether Minami should have been executed or put on trial. Legal experts believed the Bears had been in the wrong that the Rasalhague Dominion legal system should have been allowed to deal with the terrorist, Khan Ragnar Magnesson meanwhile applauded their efforts and ordered the resumption of attacks on the Draconis Combine.
Royal Wedding, Imperial Palace
New Samarkand, Midway Military District
Draconis Combine
24th March 3089
On New Samarkand the Royal Wedding of Coordinator Vincent Kurita and Tami Moto. Initially the wedding had been planned to take place on Terra with all states invited to attend however with the current border climate strained and with the prospect of further Clan troubles it had been rescheduled to take place on the Draconis Combine New Samarkand. Coordinator Vincent Kurita had invited all heads of state to come to New Samarkand to see the wedding however the Lyran Commonwealth and Capellan Confederation declined the invitation due to commitments within their home realms. Star League First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion attended alongside Commanding-General Archer Christifori representing the Star League Defence Force, the First Lord making it clear that he was there as a Star League official wearing an SLDF Commanding-General's dress uniform instead of her usual AFFS uniform. Neither Victor's wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Liao or his heir Prince Burton Davion were present. From the former Free Worlds League there was a smattering of Captain-Generals from the fractured state each bickering over which should have been named first while the most surprising of the group of guests was Khans of Clans Sea Fox and Snow Raven. Hanna Coston, of the Sea Fox Clan, represented the Khanates of her Clan while Khan Sterling made her first public appearance as Clan Snow Raven's new leader. Although neither Khan could be described as friendly towards their Inner Sphere state counterparts neither is overtly aggressive or disruptive. Once proceedings are complete each of the dignitaries are escorted to the nearest border system by the Draconis Combine navy to ensure the best possible show is put on for their assorted guests each of the visiting nation's WarShips is escorted by either a Yamato-class Battleship or an Omi Kurita-class Carrier showing the strength of the Draconis Combine.
Border Conflict, Lyran Commonwealth Raid
Marian Hegemony, Periphery
28th March 3089
Arriving behind their sister regiment the Third Alliance Guards RCT along with the WarShips LCS Daniel Allard, a Fox-class Corvette, and the LCS Yvonne, a Peter-class Scoutship, arrive for a raid in force against the world of Illyria. The defenders of Ilyria are caught completely unaware by the attack ready for a bandit raid they have no chance against the battle hardened Lyran Commonwealth RCT.
Feeling that something wasn't completely right General Michael Vickers commanding the RCT orders the Yvonne to gather as much intelligence as it can from the passing ships while his RCT gathers information from the Illyria databases. With orders to raid only and then fall back the Third Alliance Guards leave the planet eight days after landfall returning to the Lyran Commonwealth via New St Andrews.
Once on Bolan the Third Alliance Guards RCT like its sister RCT the Fifth Alliance Guards would cease to be as an Alliance Guards formation instead transiting to the same Commonwealth Guards designation forming a new Brigade within the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. Elsewhere within the Lyran Commonwealth the Fourth Alliance Guards RCT became the Fourth Commonwealth Guards RCT while the Alliance Jaegers Brigade finds itself merged with that of the Commonwealth Guards. The three remaining regiments find themselves changing names and postings to fit their new positions the First Bolan Jaegers Regiment became the Fifth Commonwealth Guards Regiment. While the two Skye Jaegers Regiments find themselves separated as the First Regiment joins the Isle of Skye Provincial Forces while the Second Regiment joins the Commonwealth Guards Brigade as the Sixth Commonwealth Guards in an agreement made by Skye and Tharkad. All in all these changes mark the first revision in the Commonwealth armed forces since the rebirth of the Lyran Commonwealth however they are not the last planned by General of Armies Keane Sortek.
Rasalhague Dominion Offensive
Buckminster Prefecture, District of Benjamin
Draconis Combine
29th March 3089
With their own internal problems in check Clan Ghost Bear could turn its full attention on their external enemy, the Draconis Combine. Rasalhague Dominion forces launched full assaults on the worlds of Trolloc Prime, Gram, Shimosuwa and Buckminster as it drove into the Draconis Combine far overtaking both the Wolves and Jade Falcons as they struck ever closer to Terra. On the world of Buckminster, capital of the Buckminster Prefecture, the Ghost Bears find the Second Sword of Light Regiment. With members of the regiment implicated in the attacks on Alshian the Ghost Bear's Polar Assault Galaxy led by newly promoted Loremaster David Bekker launch a full assault on the world supported by the WarShip Tseng, a Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser/Carrier, gaining air superiority quickly the Bears chase the Second Sword of Light across the world before finally destroying them near the planet's capital city. Loremaster David Bekker orders the survivors interrogated by the Clan Watch before their execution. With another group of targets secure the Bears secure their positions before the Khan confirms that Dieron is still the Clan's target and that the next wave will go ahead as planned. Bekker and the Watch operatives discover that Motstand are in league with elements of the DCMS and together they had planned to cripple the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion.
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby Assault
Marian Hegemony, Periphery
30th March 3089
In a direct follow up to the Lyran Commonwealth withdrawal the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby lands military forces on the worlds of Ilyria and Tasjkis on their shared border with the Marian Hegemony. This sparks an immediate message from Archon Peter Steiner-Davion to Captain-General Anthony Brett-Marik who is still in transit from the Draconis Combine Capital New Samarkand. Ensuring this is not a message that becomes “lost†Peter Steiner-Davion ensures that the message is leaked to national Lyran Press Agencies knowing that from there the message would be carried around the Inner Sphere.
To Captain-General Anthony Brett-Marik
“Captain-General Brett-Marik the Lyran Commonwealth's disagreement with the Marian Hegemony does not in anyway concern the forces of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby.
The Lyran Commonwealth has no intention on laying claim to these worlds and only wishes to send a message to the Marian Hegemony not to trifle with the Lyran
Commonwealth and not to threaten its citizens.
I would ask that Duchy of Tamarind-Abby forces stay within their borders unless otherwise agitated by the Marian Hegemony, I do not wish Lyran Commonwealth forces
to mistake your forces for those of the Marian Hegemony.â€
Sincerely Peter Steiner-Davion, Archon
Due to Anthony Brett-Marik's travel time through the Draconis Combine and the Star League Protectorate before even reaching the former-Free Worlds League the Archon does not receive a formal reply until well into June 3089. By this time the First Tamarind Militia and the Third Tamarind-Abby Guards are well entrenched on their conquered worlds.
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The Yamato-class Battleship pride of the Draconis Combine fleet
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/yamato-class-battleship-(alternate-timeline-with-thanks-au)/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/yamato-class-battleship-(alternate-timeline-with-thanks-au)/)
Enjoy my thanks to Corsair_SG for making it happen without the formatting it looked a total mess
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So....
the Draconis Combine Mustard Society.
This has me wondering just how many types of mustard there can really be...
Clearly there would be the dijion and honey mustard. Also, the spicy brown, stone ground, horseradish style hot... but are there any others? Does the Coordinator know about this society?.....
To me, this only gets more funny the further down the rabbit hole I go...
I AM however fairly certain that you meant " Mustered Soldiery. "
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So.... the Draconis Combine Mustard Society.
This has me wondering just how many types of mustard there can really be...
Clearly there would be the dijion and honey mustard. Also, the spicy brown, stone ground, horseradish style hot... but are there any others? Does the Coordinator know about this society?.....
To me, this only gets more funny the further down the rabbit hole I go...
I AM however fairly certain that you meant " Mustered Soldiery. "
Very possibly
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Into April
Free Trade Region, New Calcutta City
Bowang, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
2nd April 3089
In a remote warehouse on the world of Bowang a man in a well cut business suit looked over at the person he was meeting. He couldn't say if the person was male or female as they were entirely encased in a suit of Green Power Armour. Power Armour wasn't that uncommon nowadays but this one famous throughout the Inner Sphere it belonged to the Bounty Hunter. “The mission is simple we want Katrina Steiner deadâ€
“Katrina Ward†the Bounty Hunter corrected
“In the eyes of the people, I represent it's the same thing, she's a destabilizing force whatever her name.â€
“A destabilizing force with a sizable amount of Clan technology and a WarShip.†The Bounty Hunter pointed out
“A damaged WarShip†the suited figure said quietly
“Still capable of flattening everything on the planet that Katrina is on any planet!†The Bounty Hunter snapped “WarShips damaged or not are nothing to ignore.â€
“Are you saying you can't do it?†The man asked the Bounty Hunter knew he was trying to get a reaction.
“I didn't say that. It just means you will need to pay plenty.†The Bounty Hunter replied
Trials of Position
New Barcella, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
9th April 3089
After a long day of fighting only one Huntsman OmniMech remained standing following all the trials. From the perimetre a single Dragon Cat OmniMech marched out to meet it. This particular Dragon Cat belonged to Khan Canin Rosse leader of the Nova Cats. “Michael Drummond†the Khan announced over an open communications channel “I am Khan Canin Rosse, I have witnessed your ability in battle and I am aware of your records within our Clan.†He said “you are victorious today and you will be our Clan's new saKhan should you accept?â€
“Khan Rosse, I accept this honour†Michael Drummond said “I will do all that I can to heal the pain that has been brought by our Clan's abjuration from the Clan Homeworlds council.†He said on the same open channel recently Khan Canin Rosse had led the remnants of Clan Nova Cat's Homeworlds garrison back to the Nova Cat's Den. The Nova Cat's Den learned of the Nova Cat's Abjuration, the destruction of Tau Galaxy and the death of saKhan Ajax Drummond as well as the destruction of the Vision Quest and the Blood Oath, two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers.
All of the Nova Cats within the Nova Cat's Den had learned of the troubles that had infected the Clan Homeworlds and the victories the Society and their Burrock allies had won and the losses the other Clans were suffering. Under Khan Rosse's order the Watch had begun screening the Nova Cat Enclaves for Society Cells that were within the Clan's Periphery population. The Clan Flagship the Severn Lervoux had already been docked at the New Barcella Shipyards for the extensive damage it had taken retreating from the Homeworlds.
Draconis Combine Counter Attack
Alshian District, Rasalhague Dominion
16th April 3089
Unable to re-position in time to block the current Rasalhague Dominion drive towards Vega and Dieron DCMS units supported by several WarShips launched a counter offensive on the Rasalhague Dominion intended on catching the Ghost Bear's attention and distracting the invasion. Several DCMS Regiments landed on the worlds of Tinaca, Marawi, Sheliak and Keasong, all in close proximity to the Rasalhague Dominion's capitol world Alshian. With these worlds so far from the front lines the DCMS units found only Garrison Clusters and front-line units stripped of much of their equipment. Fighting using Clan traditions of Zellbrigen the Combine regiments are able to secure Marawi, Sheliak and Keasong from the defenders in quick succession. Due to their use of Zellbrigen the DCMS units won much respect from the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion who saw the Draconis Combine troops as more honourable than the renegade Motstand forces of their own worlds.
At almost the same time as the Draconis Combine invasion of Tinaca the Watch were highly active on the world tracking down the last remnants of Motstand. Ordered by Loremaster David Bekker to track down and eliminate Motstand by any means the Watch force had brought not only the Constable and Rogue Bear units from previous battles but also an entire Trinary of Ursus PR BattleMechs. The Watch forces ignored news of the Draconis Combine invasion instead they continued to close on Motstand. Giving the rebels one final chance to stand down and face the Rasalhague's legal system which the Motstand members refused instead declaring they had hostages and that the bears would have to fight through them to get to the Motstand members. The rebels use of human shields infuriated the Ghost Bears, already with authorization to use any means to eliminate the rebels the Watch commanders ordered an all out frontal assault.
Nearly three hundred civilians and one hundred Motstand members were cut down as the Ghost Bears were indiscriminate with their fire cutting down all that did not wear a Ghost Bear uniform. Although these actions sent ripples throughout the Rasalhague Dominion they also sent a clear message that the Rasalhague Dominion's government and their Ghost Bear military were in control of all their worlds. Within the Motstand casualties was Cilla Amdahl the last surviving member of the Motstand leadership, for now at least the movement was dead and buried. Turning their attention to the Draconis Combine's First Night Stalkers Regiment the Watch forces declared a second Trial of Possession against the DCMS unit. With the regiment's best warriors still engaged in the first Trial of Possession the Watch forces fought the less experienced members of the Night Stalkers and won. With the Night Stalkers victorious against the Garrison Cluster and the Watch unit were victorious in their own Trial. The Night Stalkers commander Tai-sa William Corban chose to retreat from the world with the units honour intact instead of declaring a third trial. The Watch's victory against Motstand and then against the DCMS impressed many within the Ghost Bears and the wider Rasalhague Dominion.
St Jamis-Liao Raid
Glasgow, Capella Commonality
Capellan Confederation
20th April 3089
In a completely unannounced raid a unit of Battle Armour on Glasgow in the Capella Commonality of the Capellan Confederation. The local militia Battalion of BattleMechs and armoured vehicles are not match for the entire regiment of Battle Armour forces and they are completely destroyed near the MacClellan Farms on the outskirts of planetary capital.
Left to run amok for several days the unit burns and destroys large areas of the MacClellan Farms and collapses two of the underground tunnels that lead into the city. Eye witnesses of the attacks report the Battle Armour were of designs not common in Capellan or Davion space, each is painted green and is marked with an elaborate gold “95th†emblem. By the time the First Capellan Defence Force landed on the planet the mysterious 95th had disappeared from the planet. Days after Cameron St Jamis-Liao takes credit for the 95th's attack naming him his “Rifles.â€
Third Wave, Rasalhague Dominion Offensive
Vega Prefecture, District of Benjamin
Draconis Combine
22nd April 3089
Following the orders of the Khan Rasalhague Dominion forces launch an attack on the Draconis Combine worlds of Tsukude, Alnasi and Vega, capital of the Vega Prefecture. both Tsukude and Alnasi fall without issue to the Rasalhague Dominion forces however Vega is another matter. Defended by Three District of Benjamin Regulars Regiments, two Genyosha Regiments and three WarShips the world is a far tougher nut to crack than any other previously encountered by the Rasalhague Dominion. Arriving personally aboard the WarShip Ursla Major, a Nightlord-class Battleship, Khan Ragnar Magnesson finds his troops ready for another long battle but he also sees that his people are tired of the conflict too. As he is pondering how to resolve the situation and how to attack the world the Combine defenders are reinforced by the arrival of the WarShip DCS Battle of Luthien, a Kyushu-class Frigate, carrying elements of the Third Genyosha Regiment and Warlord of Pesht Minoru Kurita.
Instead of ordering an all out attack on the world of Vega Khan Ragnar Magnesson chooses to speak with Warlord Minoru Kurita. Instead of ordering a full offensive on the world which would likely destroy both armies the two leaders come to a compromise. Loremaster David Bekker and his Polar Bear Assault Galaxy will fight against Warlord Minoru Kurita's Third Genyosha Regiment supported by elements of the other units on the world. Should the Rasalhague Dominion win they gain control of the entire Vega Prefecture and end hostilities. Should the defenders prevail the Rasahague Dominion will retreat to the Buckminster Prefecture and end hostilities. On Vega in a near six hour battle the Draconis Combine defenders are victorious over the Polar Bears and the Rasalhague Dominion retreats back to the newly captured worlds formerly known as the Draconis Combine's Buckminster Prefecture.
Loremaster David Bekker offers his Khan his resignation following the defeat on Vega however the Khan refuses instead he names David Bekker and the Polar Bear Assault Galaxy as the defenders of the newly occupied territories. Khan Ragnar Magnesson goes on to say that further Polar Bear units will be raised in the future with David Bekkers unit training them. In the Draconis Combine things are not as peaceful however as many within the Draconis Combine and within the ranks of the DCMS begin to look at the Warlord of Pesht, Minoru Kurita, as their leader instead of Vincent Kurita. Many argue that the Ghost Bear attacks were pre-planned the units despite having no real leadership knew exactly where and how to hit, many within the Combine who have lost loved ones in the fighting or that are cut off from those now in occupied Clan space believe that Vincent Kurita and the ISF have failed them while Warlord Minoru Kurita made the best of a bad situation. Publicly Minoru Kurita refuses to speak out against his nephew however at the same time he refuses to discount "obvious" planning and preparation that went into the attacks made by the Bears. He also speaks out against the SLDF "did not lift a finger while the Clan menace preyed on his nation's borders, his nation supported the Star League because it was designed to unite the Inner Sphere's defences." These thoughts strike cords within the Lyran Commonwealth who have also felt the destruction caused by the Clans when allowed to run wild, the SLDF refuses to comment outside Star League Council and Official Channels furthering the divide.
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Fourth New Avalon Guards RCT Base Camp
Hazelhurst, Draconis March
Federated Suns
9th May 3089
Following a series of raids against the Federated Suns worlds bordering the Raven Alliance Major Prince Burton Davion and a Reinforced Battalion of the Fourth New Avalon Guards RCT were deployed to Hazelhurst along with elements of the Wild Geese Mercenary Command under Colonel Sandy Reich to guard the Raven Alliance border. Reading through the Intelligence reports Burton Davion wasn't completely convinced that these raids had come from the Raven Alliance but orders were orders and Hazelhurst wasn't the worse planet to be based on. Sitting in his small but comfortable office there was a series of knocks at the door before it swung open he saw his aide Leftenant Ryan Campbell standing there looking flustered “problem Leftenant?â€
“Sir, the Draconis March just reported in a Texas-class Battleship just jumped into the system beyond the planet's orbit.†He stuttered out, naming the Davion III-class Destroyer that had been assigned to the unit, moments later the entire building rocked heavily as several aerospace fighters “buzzed†the base flying at high speed just above the ground.
“I guess the Snow Ravens are here for dinner†Burton said calmly as if nothing had happened “have the Chef present something nice. Order Captain Smart to keep his guns off the Texas he won't be matching them for firepower any day this year.†He said raising from his chair “see if the HPG Station can squeeze off a message to Robinson have them stress that we have NOT engaged the Snow Ravens no need to start a war unless we have to.†He continued stepping around the desk “today Leftenant†he prodded the young officer who nodded and rushed out quickly.
Three hours later Burton Davion sat across the table from Khan Sterling McKenna each time he met her he was astounded at how beautiful she was. “Khan McKenna, a welcome surprise to see you here on Hazelhurst†he began lightly cutting into some of the food the Chef had prepared it was some sort of local animal that came quite close to what Burton would describe as a cow and tasted very similar to steak.
“It is as always a pleasure to be in your company Prince Burton†she said omitting his surname he knew immediately she was annoyed with the Federated Suns why he'd have to find out or it would be a war. “Tell me what brings you to this part of space?†She asked cutting into her own food.
“Our worlds have suffered some increased raiding, we were asked to investigate.â€
“The heir to the Federated Suns throne sent bandit hunting? Did you annoy your father?†She joked Burton politely laughed along with her for a moment then replied more seriously.
“My father takes peace enjoyed along our shared border very seriously which is why I have been sent Khan McKenna.†Burton said respectfully
“My people do not honestly enjoy the peace they would prefer to test their strength in battle.†She admitted immediately Burton expected a declaration of war or a Challenge for this world “fortunately between your Draconis Combine neighbours, the Nova Cats and the Sea Fox we find plenty ways for them to keep fighting without having to bother your people.†She said putting Burton's fears at ease “we have however suffered similar raids to your people, raids that must stop or the people of the Federated Suns may find themselves painted as the aggressors. A position I can guarantee Burton Davion you do not want to be in.â€
“Khan McKenna†he said continuing to remain formal in his replies despite her use of his full name “I do not take threats well. Nor does my father.†He said cleanly, plainly, he knew the Clans preferred such ways “we do not want a war, we will not start a war, but we will meet one.†He promised her “Sterling, we are not behind these raids.â€
“Perhaps that is true Burton†she admitted “perhaps it is purely bandit dezgra. The faster we find them the better.†She said cutting into her food once more before reaching for her glass of wine “to our partnership of war?†She asked raising her glass
“Our partnership†Burton agreed he knew that Sterling McKenna wasn't going to take no for an answer and having her forces assist his certainly couldn't hurt the hunt.
Oriente Offensive
Capellan Confederation
14th May 3089
In a test of the Capellan Confederation the Oriente Protectorate launches a series of raids against the Capellan Confederation focusing on former Duchy of Andruien worlds and independent worlds between the Oriente Protectorate and an expanding Capellan Confederation. Over the course of three weeks the Oriente Protectorate's Oriente Fusilier and Oriente Hussar regiments taken in five independent worlds of the former-Free Worlds League and the Capellan held worlds of El Giza, Mosiro and Hudeiba in a clear message from Oriente to Sian for the Capellans to back off their adventures into the former-Free Worlds League.
On Hudeiba the fighting becomes particularly bloody as former members of Warrior House Doru employed as mercenaries by the Oriente Protectorate take revenge against the Capellan Militia and civilian areas. The Oriente Hussar Regiment on the planet are barely able to keep the former Warrior House warriors from committing war crimes as the fighting turns ugly.
High Command Bunker
Skye, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
21st May 3089
Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner stood uncomfortably in front of the Tri-Vid screen feeling very uncomfortable. On the screen was a furious Archon Peter Steiner-Davion. “Duke Kelswa can you please explain to me why Lyran Commonwealth units are currently fighting on Dieron? And Draconis Combine soldiers are on four Lyran worlds?†He asked angrily the fighting had started nearly a week before when the Fourth Isle of Skye Guards RCT and the First Skye Jaegers RCT had launched a full assault on Dieron with the WarShips Barcelona and Katrina Steiner in support. The Lyran troops had gained total surprise on the Combine troops but that had lasted only a few days before the Draconis Combine had counter attacked hitting Ko, Lyons, Mulphrid and Altair.
“The Draconis Combine has been launching raids against Isle of Skye worlds for the last three months as you should be aware from our intelligence reports.†Robert began “we were simply making the Combine aware we would not take their attacks lightly.
“BY ATTACKING THEIR DISTRICT CAPITAL!!†Peter screamed leaning into the Tri-Vid “do you have any idea what you have started Kelswa! We could be looking at an all our WAR with the Draconis Combine.â€
“We cannot allow them to continuously raid our worlds and not strike back Archon!†Robert snapped back “you gave me stewardship over these worlds to protect them in your name do not tie my hands now.†He said passionately. He saw his Archon turn off the screen slightly before turning back.
“I can hardly countermand you now can I? We would end up losing your entire assault force and probably all the worlds the Combine has landed on.†He said “instead I'm giving you more options the LCS Yggdrasil will be traveling to Skye to shore up your defences there.†The Archon said Robert also recognized it would be a hammer over his world keeping Skye in check. “I'm also releasing the Fifth Lyran Guards RCT along with the Seventh and Eighth Lyran Regulars Regiments. I want you to blunt the Draconis Combine attacks and recall as much as you can from Dieron as you can.â€
“Thank you sire†Robert began
“Don't thank me Robert, from what I hear your intelligence is sound which is why I support you, you have endangered Lyran Worlds by your actions without my consult. I will not forget that.â€
Lyran Assaults
Draconis Combine/Lyran Commonwealth border
31st May 3089
With the release of additional troops from Tharkad the Isle of Skye seized on the opportunity. As well as counter attacking on the worlds of Ko and Lyons the Isle of Skye launched invasions of Alphecca, Unukalhal and La Blon three worlds that had long been Lyran held but in recent years belonged to the Draconis Combine and were held like a knife to Skye's throat. The Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards RCT launched a full assault on the Combine supply world of Yorii.
These actions brought almost the entire Lyran Draconis Combine border to flames for the first time in decades raids had been exchanged but now it was verging on full war. Across the Skye and Draconis Combine borders all the neighbouring realms looked at the troubles with keen eyes. While First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion and Commanding-General Archer Christifori raised formal complaints with both realms over the size of the conflict and warn over the potential SLDF response.
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SLDF Peacekeeping action
Draconis Combine/Lyran Commonwealth border
8th June 3089
Without further warning or action SLDF forces are ordered into action to break up the fighting between the Draconis Combine and Isle of Skye. Under orders to interfere in battles between the two sides and place themselves directly in the way of attacks Commanding-General Archer Christifori gives his SLDF troops full authorization to use their weapons outwith civilian areas.
On Dieron the 151st Light Horse Regiment of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade spring into action from Castle Winston (Fortress Dieron) stopping a Isle of Skye attack near Kyoto DropPort while at the same time confusing a Combine counter attack near San Martin.
Returning from the Clan border the Twenty-eighth Hussar Regiment, Bolton's Rangers, were directed to Yorii breaking up fighting there while the Twenty-first Rim Worlds Brigade launched from Caph to Altair in an effort to cut Lyran supplies to Dieron. These moves by the SLDF are a clear move to break up the initial fighting between the Lyran Commonwealth and the Draconis Combine however it is also clear the SLDF wishes to remain on both worlds on a long basis. Neither the Draconis Combine or Lyran Commonwealth are paying attention to the SLDF's long term goals however instead they are more interested in battling each other. Although the SLDF do take damage during the fighting as the two Succession States are more interested in fighting themselves than the SLDF saving the Peacekeepers from the major fighting or being target of direct assaults.
Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga Territory
Atreus, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
14th June 3089
As the warm sun of Atreus bathed the world with a glorious summer Loremaster Cassandra Faraday, Kindraa Leader of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga and a member of Clan Fire Mandrill, ignored the heat as she walked quickly alongside of Star Captain Lysa Djerassi as the former Goliath Scorpion warrior informed her of what had happened. She had long ago learned to always walk, never run, in front of her subordinates as it shows confidence to those around her as well as reduced any panic. Only when the young warrior finished did the forty-four year old Loremaster begin asking her questions.
“Let me get this straight, Star Captain Djerassi. Khan Garret Sainze and Kindraa Leader Ariel Kreese, of the Fire Mandrills, have both given the dezgra Burrocks their support? Quiaff?†Seeing the younger woman nod her head, Cassandra continued,
“And no word from saKhan Eric Carrol?â€
“Neg. With no communication from Shadow, we simply have no clue what is happening, Kindraa Leader,†replied Star Captain Lysa Djerassi. Both women paused as they reached the command center. Showing their respective codex to the awaiting elemental, the young star captain continued, “The only good thing is Khan Garret Sainze issued the announcement through Fire Mandrill encryption.†As she spoke the last words, they were allowed into the command center.
Cassandra Faraday paused at the entrance while she took in the chaos that was once the kindraa command center. “Enough!†she bellowed. As the room calmed down, she continued, “I need updates people.†Seeing the separate personnel inside the command center start to yell out reports at the same time, she held up her hand. “One at a time. I understand this caught us by surprise, but we cannot, will not, panic over this. Quiaff?†Seeing everyone start nodding to her, she too nodded. “Tech Matthew, any update on contacting Shadow and the 12th Support Cluster?†she asked to the elderly Technician manning the HPG.
“Aff Kindraa Leader. I managed to contact Star Commander Anthony of the Hunter-class JumpShip Leaping Mandrill. He reports Kindraa Sainze has somehow taken control of the CFM Rage and the 12th is fighting a holding action so the last of the civilians can reach the DropShips.â€
Nodding to this, Cassandra asked the question that concerned her most. “Any word IlKhan Andrews or the other Khans know of what is happening?†Technician Matthew could only shrug at her in response. ‘Lovely’, she thought, but she understood only too well the problem with contacting via HPG could be. For the last two years, HPG communication in Clan Space had seemingly been brought to a stop. Only those on warships and specific worlds seemed to still work and even then, sporadically. Shadow, until now, was one of those worlds where its HPG still functioned.
Star Admiral Theodore Albiev was next. It was clear he was still adjusting to his new rank. “I ordered the Titan Monitors to full status Kindraa Leader. I must warn you. We still do not know if the Monitors can hold off warships.†Cassandra nodded. The Titan Monitors, based on the Titan DropShips, were effectively assault DropShips designed to fight enemy warships and escort JumpShips and warships. Unfortunately, they have yet to be tested in combat. “I will be leaving shortly to take command of the CFM Warsaw Kindraa Leader.â€
“Not the Resolute, Star Admiral?â€
“Neg. The Resolute still needs another week minimum to be brought up to strength Kindraa Leader, Warsaw has proven her abilities,†answered the star admiral. The CFM Resolute was a newly reactivated New Syrtis-class carrier from mothball. While in decent enough shape, its weaponry needed to be updated and upgraded and the crew needed time to become used to their new ship. Still even given his reservations of the ship, Cassandra thought the Resolute could still be brought to bear if needed, she respected Theodore’s decision, for he was the ranking officer of all naval forces belonging to Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga.
Cassandra Faraday then looked to Star Colonel Jerald Danforth, the oldest Fire Mandrill warrior still in uniform within Kindraaa Faraday-Tanaga. Unfortunately, the two of them were political enemies in the kindraa, she had only barely defeated him the last time they had met in political opposition. Still, the aging warrior had his uses and commanded respect, as shown with his continual command of the Third Battle Cluster and the fact he was one of only two in the command center not to take part in the earlier chaos. “I ordered elements of the Fourteenth activated,†he spoke quietly. The Fourteenth, on paper, was a Regular unit, but in reality its subordinate units were not used to working together and could be trusted to arrive to battle but little else.
Seeing he was done, Cassandra looked to the Oathmaster of her Kindraa. Technically a Star Captain, Peter Tanaga held great authority within the kindraa due in part to his command of the sibling training companies. “I alerted the older sibbies they may see combat before they reach Warrior status. They seemed a bit frazzled and eager Kindraa Leader,†he gave a somewhat feral smile at this. Cassandra Faraday could only shake her head at the elder warrior. It was well known many newly-made warriors straight out of their sibko demanded Trials of Grievances against the MechWarrior. To this day, only a handful could say they defeated the wily warrior, herself included.
She looked at Kindraa Loremaster Jacob Faraday next. The large Elemental was a sibkin of hers and like her and Star Colonel Danforth, he commanded respect. Upon his assumption as Loremaster of their Kindraa a year ago, he helped her reform the touman to include Specialist Trinaries, borrowing the idea from Clan Goliath Scorpion. As Kindraa Loremaster, he commanded both the Kindraa Watch and the Reserve forces belonging to the Kindraa. Seeing him smile and wink at her, Cassandra could only shake her head and sighed, exacerbated. Not only were they sibkin, they were also occasional lovers. “I alerted all Reserve forces to be ready if needed in eight hours, Cassandra.†And only he could get away with speaking her name in a time like this. She made a note to herself to deny him the next time he wanted her. Being lovers had its advantages after all.
She was brought out of her thoughts by Technician Matthew. “Seven JumpShips have arrived and a WarShip have arrived Kindraa Leader.â€
“A warship, quiaff?†she asked. All warships belonging to Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga were accounted for over Atreus.
“Aff. The CFM Rook reports it can no longer follow Kindraa Sainze and is requesting permission to join us, Kindraa Leader.†At this, everyone in the command bunker looked to her. She glanced to Star Admiral Theodore Albiev and raised an eyebrow to him.
Theodore Albiev answered for her. “Tell the Rook we acknowledge and to come along the Firetender. Tell its commander I will debrief him onboard the Warsaw in seven hours.â€
Cassandra Faraday could only nod, proud at having seen the newly-minted Star Admiral took command as his duties demanded him to. “What of the 12th Support Cluster?†she queried.
A few minutes passed. Then Technician Matthew answered her. “The 12th fought to their DropShips Kindraa Leader. Star Colonel Megan Angharobis reports the loss of three fourths of her warriors, however.â€
“Alright people. I want a full Kindraa Command meeting in 8 hours. Route any on radio or satellite who absolutely cannot be there.†Turning to Star Captain Lysa Djerassi, she whispered to her, “Wake me up in seven hours. Unless all hell is coming down on us, I am not to be disturbed.â€
Seeing the young warrior nod to her, Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday turned and walked out of the command center, hoping for six and a half hours of rest.
Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday collapsed into the couch and sighed. The last thirteen hours took a toll on her forty-four year old body. Star Captain Margaret Jannik, acting commander of the CFM Rook, a newly-activated Sylvester-class troopship Kindraa Sainze had activated and then fled from the dezgra Kindraa, had reported to Star Admiral Theodore Albiev of Kindraa Sainze and Mick-Kreese-Kline fought without zellbrigen against the two clusters belonging to Kindraa Mattila-Carrol on Shadow. A Sainze Watch operative leaked nerve gas into the CFM Rage, the last Lola-III destroyer controlled by Clan Fire Mandrill as well, allowing the Sainze to take command of the Rage without a shot fired. That thought still fueled fire in her veins. What was worse was the arrival of a Kumagari-class pursuit cruiser over Shadow just as the last of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga were about to jump to Atreus. The only things known about the pursuit cruiser was that Kindraa Sainze, nor Kindraa Mick-Kreese-Kline activated it, that it was named the Kerensky’s Truth, and it seemed to be in remarkable shape.
Fleeing Clan Sea Fox merchants had in turn informed Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga of Kindraa Mattila-Carrol’s destruction with nuclear weaponry. With this information in hand, she demanded a Grand Kurultai meeting. Now she waited while the necessary HPG stations connected with one another. She could only hope she could defend her Kindraa from calls of absorption or even annihilation in the Grand Kurultai. She thanked Kerensky her Kindraa had formed a backup plan in case of that after the laughable Ghost Bears Absorption. Her thoughts were again broken, this time by a communique from the command center.
“The necessary HPG grid for the Grand Kurultai has been established Kindraa Leader.â€
“Aff,†she responded. Sighing, she dragged herself up, not looking forward to informing the Grand Kurultai of the dezgra Kindraa.
Grand Council Meeting
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
15th June 3089
Even attending the Grand Council via HPG link Cassandra Faraday could see the other Clans were tired of combat, she could also see all the empty seats from Clans that were vacant from this meeting, most notably Clans Wolf, Jade Falcon, Ghost Bear, Hell's Horse and Nova Cat all at one time or another had great influence in the Council Chambers. She listened to ilKhan Brett Andrews speak he spoke quietly in his eyes Cassandra could see the pain that had been inflicted on him by the losses. Each of the remaining Clans, Steel Viper, Star Adder, Cloud Cobra, Goliath Scorpion, Coyote and her own Fire Mandrill forces had taken great amounts of casualties fighting the reborn Burrock forces and their support.
"From what we can tell two months ago the Garrison of Huntress has completely retreated from the Clan Homeworlds without communication with our Clan surrendering control of the world to Burrock forces. Despite an extensive search we have not been able to track their movements beyond the Kerensky Cluster. They have been declared Dezgra by our Clan." Colin Yeh said sitting down.
"Yet another world, my fellow Khans we must show our resolve against the weak and against our enemies and prevail against all threats." ilKhan Brett Andrews said passionately turning towards the Fire Mandrill table "and the reason the Fire Mandrill Clan has not attended in person is what Loremaster Cassandra Faraday."
"ilKhan, it appears Kindraas Sainze and Mick-Kreese-Kline have both aligned their forces with Burrock forces." Cassandra said quietly around her other members of the Kindraa did their best to remain quiet, allowing them to watch these proceedings were a violation of Clan law but Cassandra had a feeling things were about to go very badly.
"WHAT!!" Brett Andrews screamed "TWO THIRDS OF YOUR CLAN HAVE BETRAYED OUR CLANS!!" He continued "this is a violation of everything the Founder stood for!"
"I could not agree more, ilKhan, I move for all Fire Mandrill forces beyond my own on Atreus are declared Dezgra..." Cassandra began before Brett Andrews broke in.
"Neg!" He shouted silencing her "Cassandra Faraday your broken Clan has taken one final step I am the ilKhan using wartime powers I declare your ENTIRE Clan as Dezgra. You can save your forces on Atreus from Annihilation by aligning them with Clan Steel Viper and submitting to my command, do you agree?"
"Neg!" Cassandra said immediately "Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga have done nothing to wrong the Clans, we are loyal and have enough forces to constitute a Clan by ourselves."
"Your forces are as pitiful as the Blood Spirits once were, insignificant" the Star Adder Khan said dismissively.
"You will submit your forces..." Brett Andrew began before Cassandra cut the link bowing her head for several moments composing her own thoughts before turning to the other officers.
"Members of Faraday-Tanaga, you heard the ilKhan, what say you?" She asked everyone stood or sat in stunned silence "WELL!" She shouted making several jump in surprise as the Loremaster lost her temper rarely did Cassandra Faraday show her anger in public.
"Loremaster" Star Admiral Theodore Albiev said from his display screen, the Admiral was at this very moment on the bridge of the WarShip Warsaw "I speak for every member of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga that we are with you and will not submit to Clan Steel Viper or any of the Serpent Clans ovKhan." He said using the honourary rank to symbolize his words. "What say you Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga!" He called out
Almost in unison every member in the command room and via several communication circuits the members of Clan Fire Mandrill spoke, for the first time in years, as one each uttering a single word "Seyla!" Cassandra Faraday stood in the command room looking around at each member of the Kindraa in turn none showed any doubt with their decision.
"Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga - you honour me" she said quietly her voice slowly gaining strength as she spoke once more "it is decided, we will initiate Operation Exodus Three" she said "take all you can carry to your designated Ships we are leaving the Homeworlds."
HPG Broadcast
Skye, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
27th June 3089
Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner stood again in front of the HPG Transmitter on the screen Archon Peter Steiner-Davion again filled half of the screen however on the other half Vincent Kurita, Coordinator of the Draconis Combine, fill the other.
“Then it is agreed†Vincent Kurita began “the Draconis Combine will retain control over Dieron as is our right. We also claim continued control over La Blon and renewed stewardship over two worlds of Ko and Alkalurops. We also will accept the presence of SLDF Peacekeepers on the world of Yorii.â€
“It is so agreed Vincent Kurita-san†Peter Steiner-Davion said using the Japanese Honourific “we will aso welcome the worlds Unukalhal and Alphecca back into the Lyran fold. And we welcome the SLDF Peacekeeprs to the world of Altair and congratulate the Draconis Combine on their decision to release Formalhault to the Star League Protectorate.†He said with a small smirk the concessions the Combine had made had been in the Lyran's favour on this occasion. Robert watched the screen and tried not to become angry. The “concessions†made had been in both nations interest but Skye had lost the First Skye Jaegers in battle as well as the WarShip Katrina Steiner. Robert Ryan Kelswa Steiner had already made plans for the First Skye Training Battalion to take control over the mantel of the First Skye Jaegers. The recording ended and the image was replaced by that of Peter Steiner-Davion this time the Archon looked directly at Robert “Archon...†he began.
“Silence†Peter snapped “Robert you cost us any inroad we had at Dieron, the WarShip Katrina Steiner and the deaths of many Lyran citizens. Deaths that did not have to happen.â€
“We all die†Robert replied angrily.
“We do but not at your choosing.†Peter said calmly “I understand your desires Robert, you may not think I understand Skye's desires but I do. I also understand what is in the best interest to the people of the Lyran Commonwealth so I will issue this warning once.†The Archon said formally “if you ever endanger the security of this realm again with independent action I will ensure that your family is removed from Skye and that they NEVER return to a position of power in the Lyran nation.†Peter warned “tread very carefully Robert†the Archon finally said before the screen went blank Robert turned to his wife Duchess Hermonie Aten who did not look impressed with the Archon's words.
“More Star League troops on our worlds and the Archon thinks it is an acceptable compromise!†She snapped “how exactly does that spawn of Davion consider this to be worthy of the people of Skye!†She said her anger flaring Robert could not disagree with her but the Archon had far more power than Skye. Even with the Gladius Shipyard progressing nicely Skye would have to bide her time once more.
Approaching Nadir Point, CFF Warsaw (Whirlwind-class Destroyer)
Atreus, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
28th June 3089
It had taken the remaining Fire Mandrills nearly a week to remove everything of worth from their command facilities on Atreus then several more days to travel to the Nadir point. The newly added CFF Rook, the recently captured Jade Falcon vessel Ironhold Provider, a Carrack-class transport, and the CFF Firetender, the Fire Mandrill's last remaining Lola III-class Destroyer had already jumped into deep space to an uninhabited system maintaining radio silence. Now the CFF Warsaw and CFF Resolute escorted nearly three dozen DropShips to the remaining Fire Mandrill JumpShips which Cassandra Faraday had ordered to jump as soon as their complement was aboard, so far her Kindraa had been too lucky.
"Radiation spike Star Admiral!" one officer called out Theodore Albiev looked at his screen and watched as two Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruisers and a Dart-class Light Cruiser jumped into the system. "The Steel Vipers have arrived." Albiev looked at Cassandra Faraday, who had remained in her seat, the Loremaster just nodded.
"Battlestations!" He called our "All Titan Monitors and aerospace fighters form on the Warsaw. Resolute, direct your fighters to join us. You are to screen all JumpShips from fire, do not let them close on our civilians and ground forces understood?" He ordered there was a series of acknowledgments "good, I want the King Viper's back broken" he said designating the recently arrived Sovetskii Soyuz as his target. The Whirlwind-class Destroyer began to close on the three Viper WarShips taking multiple capital missile hits as the Steel Vipers tried to capitalize on their distance from the Fire Mandrills. Unfortunately for them the Titan Monitors were covered in capital missile launchers and anti-missile systems and were doing a very good job at screening the charging Whirlwind.
"As soon as we are in range all guns are to engage the enemy, have all Monitors and fighters change from defensive screen to assault profiles once we are in range have them target all enemy vessels except for the King Viper it's mine." He ordered such an order would make the Warsaw vulnerable to enemy fire but would hopefully bring enough fire on the Steel Vipers.
"Naval Laser bank three not responding" one of the crew called out as they closed into weapons range of the enemy releasing all the Whirlwind-class Destroyer's weapons on the single target at once Naval Autocannon, laser, gauss rifle and particle cannon fire rippled from the Warsaw's weapon banks all targeted on the the King Viper. From along the Warsaw's flanks aerospace fighters and Titan Monitors volley fired their naval and conventional weapons at the other Star Adder vessels opening fire into the flanks of the Crazy Horse and the Viper's Legacy opening the sides of the two vessels as they tried to close on the Resolute. Unfortunately the Steel Viper counter fire was equally devastating with the Titan Monitors and aerospace fighters now being targeted by everything the Viper's had left, the Warsaw now not protected by the fighters and DropShips was taking many more hits. The fire from the Warsaw tore into the King Viper shredding the Sovetskii Soyuz's armour while weapon systems aboard the Warsaw were nearly continuously being called out as damaged in the command centre. The two WarShips slid past each other in space exchanging broadside fire as they passed.
"Bring us around" Theodore Albiev called out as Loremaster Cassandra Faraday tried to apply a bandage to his head, she knew little about naval combat and was staying out of the command decisions instead she tried to help keep her Star Admiral standing after a console had exploded near him. "Helm keep our damned broadside on that stavag!" He called out as the Whirlwind began a sloppy turn, with Theodore's insistence the Warsaw turned more crisply.
"The last DropShip is away!" Another crewman called out, there was a cheer from the Warsaw's bridge as they realized they had succeeded in their goal and the Kindraa would survive beyond the Homeworlds.
"Order Resolute to jump!" Theodore Albiev called out looking at Cassandra Faraday who nodded she understood, the Warsaw could not survive against the three enemy WarShips that remained even though the King Viper was battered beyond recoignition.
"Sir, Resolute's commander respectfully declines, they have engaged the Vipers and say they will maintain position at the Nadir point until we are in position."
"That crazy bastard Malcolm Lynn is going to get his entire crew killed" Theodore Albiev said quietly
"Can we make it?" Cassandra Faraday whispered not showing her doubt in front of the crew.
"Maybe" Theodore Albiev admitted raising his voice "Helm full burn towards the jump point, ignore all enemy targets all fire to defence. "Communications tell Resolute we are on our way they are to remain at the jump point, we will jump as soon as we can." The Whirlwind-class Destroyer Warsaw seemed to become a sprinter at its last as everything was pushed to acceleration. Ahead the nine hundred-and-twenty thousand ton Resolute marked the finish line as it held off two Steel Viper WarShips. Coming up passed the two vessels the Warsaw exchanged fire with the two Star Adder WarShips taking multiple hits as it passed.
"Main engines are hit!" One of the crew reported "main acceleration down by one third."
"We may as well be coasting" Theodore Albiev said slamming his fist against the panel as the Warsaw took several more hits as the destroyer moved into the Jump point "communications tell the Resolute well done" he said impressed with what the new crew and ship had done, their actions had saved what was left of the Warsaw and her crew. "And order them to go now, we are the last ones out." He ordered, moments later the New Syrtis-class Cruiser jumped clearing the system. "Engineering prepare to get us out of here, Loremaster."
"Jump" Cassandra Faraday ordered it was her last order in the Clan Homeworlds but it was hers to give the battered Whirlwind barely resembled the ship it was at the begining of this fight but the Warsaw and her crew had done their duty and Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga would survive for another day. With a flash of light the Warsaw disappeared from the Atreus system for the last time joining the rest of the Kindraa in deep space beyond the Kerensky Cluster.
Sea Fox Watch
Twycross, Sea Fox Occupation Zone
31st June 3089
The monitoring of deep space HPG transmissions was not the most glamorous within Clan Sea Fox's Watch. Elsewhere members of the Watch gathered information on the other Clans and on the Inner Sphere states around them while others finished negotiations with the Federated Suns which would allow that nation to purchase Pelican Small Craft for their own uses.
On Twycross however the technicians of the Watch were tasked with watching for any words seeking out of the Clan Homeworlds. As fragments from the Homeworlds slowly came in the techs looked over the information seeing that the fighting that had engulfed the Homeworlds still continued with a massive naval battle being noted within the Atreus system. The Sea Fox Clan had lost many people in the place the Clans had originated unlike many of the other Clans they would not forget where they came from.
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Glad to see an update before the New Year!!! The clan's expanding and adapting to circumstances! Can't wait to see what you have in store for next year!
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Glad to see an update before the New Year!!! The clan's expanding and adapting to circumstances! Can't wait to see what you have in store for next year!
Let's not wait until the New Year!
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/stories/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/stories/)
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Happy New Year!
Now it's July... ;D
SFS Liberty (Britannic-class Heavy Cruiser)
Twycross, Sea Fox Territory
Clan Occupation Zones
8th July 3089
With little pomp or ceremony the newest operational Britannic-class Heavy Freighter the Sea Fox Ship Liberty completes her madden voyage. Built at the Ionous Shipyards in the Free Worlds League under contract the ship arrives at the Clan Sea Fox held world of Twycross to begin its operational life. Exactly what the Sea Fox Clan plans to use the craft for is a mystery as they already have massive transport capabilities with their impressive Naval fleet composed of largely Potemkin, Carrack and Volga-class Transports.
Caesar's Palace, Dining Room
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
18th July 3089
Katrina Ward, Caesar of the Marian Hegemony, sat quietly eating her meal on Alphard. She was alone in the room her son Aleksandr was finishing off a training course before returning home. Home she thought trying not to laugh her home one Alphard was comfortable far more comfortable than anything she had ever encountered on Tamar or on the pirate world of Rack but it was still a far cry from the luxuries of Tharkad or even New Avalon.
She didn't think of her past life often when she was the second born of Hanse Davion and Melissa Steiner second only to her pint sized brother Victor. It had been Victor's fault from the start he didn't understand politics, he had miss-managed the Lyran people for too long she had to act she had to free them from his yoke. Then when her younger sister Yvonne had begun to struggle, after being left to lead the Federated Suns as Victor fought the Clans, she had no choice but to try and help her... how should she had known that Yvonne had all the help she could ever need in the form of a Clanner of all things. Katrina would have loved to have seen Victor's face when his little sister ran off with a clansmen then again Katrina had done as much when she met Vlad Ward. She had never expected to have been returning to him as she had de-throned from Tharkad by her other brother Peter she had no choice but to return to Vlad, Victor had made certain of that placing her just within Vlad's grasp.
Events had spiraled from that moment she thought her luxurious life had ended and things had become tougher. Vlad had been a great man with the ambition and the drive to take her to the highest points but he was still a Clanner with all that belief that Trueborns were the ultimate creation and relationships were only good for one thing... sex. She almost thought it was funny that Vlad had died in one of those trials he so cherished not knowing that he had impregnated her, she often wondered how the former Khan would have thought had he known that he, a true believer in the superiority of Trueborns over Freeborns, had fathered a son. And a fine boy he had turned out to be with her brains and Vlad's brawn her son would go very far given the chances he needed, chances that would likely be in short supply all the way out here in the Periphery. If only he had been born earlier in her life maybe her son would have had some of the chances that she had when she was younger and made better choices, no not better choices, the right choices.
Her daydreams were interrupted by the approach of the head of her house servants Milesgregarius Victor Schmidt she'd almost laughed when she originally heard his name. Finally a Victor who would know his place he stood at attention in front of her, clothed which made a change, as well as being in charge of the servants he also served some of her physical needs when Sonja Cage was not on the planet, and sometimes when she was, he was a fine man in many ways. “What is it?†She asked annoyed that he had interfered in her memories.
“Caesar, a message from the HPG station. It was sent from New Avalon for your eyes only.â€
“New Avalon are you certain?†She asked she knew no-one on New Avalon except for her brother and he would not be trying to speak with her.
“The HPG technician was certain.†He said and the HPG technician was a former Ice Hellion Trueborn warrior he would be certain she mused, certain that he hated his life on this godforsaken rock and that he wished he had chosen to die in space instead of joining her.
“Thank you†she said reaching out taking the data chip from the man “I will read it alone†she said dismissing him without another word. As he walked off she pushed her plates to one side and pressed a button on the table. Painfully slowly a monitor rose from the desk, even out here in the periphery they could have a couple of fancy gadgets. She pushed the datachips into an opening on the desk and let the message play.
“Hello Katherine†the male voice said she knew the voice but couldn't immediately place it “if you listen to my voice you will know who it is†he said as if reading her mind. “Katherine, I'm afraid the time has come for you to come to an end, your attack on Jessica Steiner was ill-conceived.†He continued she knew of the attack on Jessica Steiner after it had happened. It had not been her idea it had been her son's, he had said he wanted to impress his mother and show that she was not one to be forgotten. She had given Aleksandr a lashing for the attack it wasn't needed, it brought far too much attention on them but as she thought it over the voice continued. “So I have arranged for you to suffer such a fate that you left me to.†He continued Katrina rewound the recording for a moment and listened to the voice again “...left me to†it was personal and it could be only one person. “Now don't bother getting up or calling for your guards very likely by the time is stop speaking you'll be dead and so will everyone in the building. Unlike you I don't plan on leaving anyone maimed or missing†he explained “you remember your little pirate raid on Florida?†He asked the venom rising in his voice “you found lots of interesting things there didn't you?†He said she remembered the raid before she reached the Marian Hegemony her and former members of Clans Wolf and Ice Hellion supported by many of the pirates who had joined her had raided Florida and seized several canisters of Serus Gas. She hadn't found a use for them yet but they were always nice to have. “Well I remembered it and I instructed my man to give you another one but this one is open. Katherine, I am sorry it came to this, I am sorry I had to do this behind both your brothers backs but your life of trouble has finally come to an end. Good night and sleep well.†He finished speaking and the recording ended she motioned to play it again but it had already self-deleted itself she smirked at the thinking behind the man covering his tracks she needed to get out of this building raising from her chair she immediately felt a sharp pain in her chest. She knew it was the Serus Gas and that she was dead between the moment she had breathed it in she knew she had four minutes to live. It was odorless invisible to the eye she was as good as dead.
“Good night Galen†she replied to the voice she had recognized “I'm sorry†she whispered as she sunk to her knees and then fell forwards breathing her last breaths as she lay on her chest. She hoped with her last breath that her son was not the one who found her like this and she hoped there was an afterlife so she could see Vlad Ward one last time.
From more than a kilometre away the Bounty Hunter stood silently no-one would know who he was so he stood with a shirt as he looked through the binoculars. Officially he was looking at the local game but from here he could see straight into Katrina Ward's dinning room he wondered if anyone else had ever discovered this little place and what they had seen. This had not been his preferred method of assassination but his employer had insisted and delivered the weapon for the job. The Bounty Hunter had sneaked into the Caesar's Palace three days before past her Clan guards and left the canister in the basement then waited for the HPG message to arrive. He'd watched as her poor servant delivered the message waited a moment then clicked a small detonation button on the side of the binoculars the rest was a waiting game. He had watched her die to make sure the job was done and then gone back to watching the game, no fuss, no worry about a WarShip in orbit or the Clanner Clusters on the planet a simple well paid job it could be worse.
Independence
Lothian League, Periphery
22nd July 3089
Even as Aleksandr Ward gets over the death of his mother and takes the position of Caesar on Alphard he immediately has a problem as the Lothian League, sponsored by the the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby, declares its independence from the Marian realm. Unable to counter the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby's firepower the Marians have no option but to accept the break away state. Within the Lothian League multiple Tamarind-Abby units and Tamarind-Abby hired mercenaries help protect what is little more than a protectorate for the Duchy.
Joining Ceremony
Lesnovo, Rim Association
Former-Free Worlds League
28th July 3089
For a nation that had expanded largely through military means it was nice for the people of the Rim Association to celebrate an expansion through the work of peace. It was slightly ironic that on this day they were welcoming a world that was so divided within their numbers. Today the Twin Sons system officially joined with that of the Rim Association however with a condition that the worlds current form of rulership with the North, South and Badlands all ruling themselves not change.
Initially the Rim Association had refused however a solution had been found. The Twin Son ambassador to the Rim Association would be from the Badlands but would be supported by an aide from both the North and the South both of whom would be empowered to speak for their area of the Twin Sons. The planet itself would cater to its own defence and own rule only consulting with the Rim Association during times of war. The Twin Sons themselves had little to no interest in military conquest beyond their own world.
Near the back of the hall Michael Furey stood out of the way. His Smoke Jaguars were part of none of this he had chosen to keep them separate from it and he had asked for their identity to remain a secret with the Twin Sons leaders had agreed to. His people were still few in number and he had no intention on revealing the last of Clan Smoke Jaguar just yet. Beside him stood Sandra Furey (formerly Sandra Rimmer) the former Nova Cat warrior and Rim Association Major glanced held her pregnant belly as she watched silently. “A grand day†Michael Furey said to his recently married wife. “A shame he misses it.†He said quietly having a child the freeborn “natural†way was strange but had been quite fun many of the former Smoke Jaguars within his people had been shocked, they had barely gotten used to having Sandra around as a liaison only to find she was now one of them.
“It could be a she†Sandra said quietly “and I am sure he feels the grand occasion it is.â€
“I hope that is not some of your Nova Cat superstition, Quineg?†He joked quietly
“Well if it is he or she will be all the better for it.†She teased “where do we go from here?â€
“I think that now we are part of a grander nation we will spread our paws slightly.†He said confidently it had been his Smoke Jaguars who had come up with the reinforcements necessary to allow DropShips to ascend and descend through the Twin Sons atmosphere without incident. They were still working on VTOLs and Aerospace Fighters but so far to no success. “First things first we will offer our services to making DropShips from the Association capable of landing on our world that will bring some good will.†He suggested
“We are already gaining good will the North and South are already battling, around a table this time, for the right to supply the Rim Association with Ultra-light Mechs and their hand-held weapons to local militias and the Rim Association military. Some of the Nova Cats that serve in the military have looked at the examples we took with us they see the similarities to Clan technology in its manufacture.†She pointed out “how long will it be until another state finds out that they could produce Clan technology on our world without need of expensive space stations or refined techniques?†She asked concerned.
“Not long†Michael Furey admitted “which is why I am going to also esquire about getting some Capital Grade weapons and parts for the Streaking Mist.†He said in a hushed voice keeping the Streaking Mist a secret had been another condition of the Smoke Jaguars agreeing to what was going ahead. “We have the Crawlers for planetary defence which are being restored but having that ship returned to glory is our next goal.â€
“For our defence†Sandra prompted seeing the Smoke Jaguar desire in him.
“Of course, we are but one planet, one WarShip, one Clan.†He said quietly “we know when it is to bide our time, we have done so far and we will continue to.†He said as the audience began to applause with the signing of the agreement. The Twin Sons were officially back on the maps and part of a grander nation again.
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Yay an update for the New Year! Farewell KSD and I wonder how well her son will be as Ceasar in a few years? Hope he has more patience than his KSD. The Twin Sons rejoining the known periphery and an alliance with the RA. So much potential for new stories! Keep it up when you can!
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Yay an update for the New Year! Farewell KSD and I wonder how well her son will be as Ceasar in a few years? Hope he has more patience than his KSD. The Twin Sons rejoining the known periphery and an alliance with the RA. So much potential for new stories! Keep it up when you can!
Of course
Capellan Offensive
Highspire, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
3rd August 3089
After weeks of meticulous planning the Capellan Confederation launches a full offensive on Highspire and the forces loyal to Cameron St Jamis-Liao. The WarShips CCSS Anhui, an Impavido-class Destroyer, and CCSS Tikonov, a Tikonov-class Carrier jump in at the Zenith point while the WarShips CCSS Sian, another Tikonov-class Carrier, and the CCSS Sun-Tzu Liao, a Feng Huang 2-class Cruiser/Carrier, jump in at the Nadir point followed by nearly a dozen JumpShips.
Almost immediately after the Anhui appears at the Zenith point the Destroyer explodes as the ship appears within a cluster of shattered asteroids. The defenders of Highspire have learned lessons from the SLDF assaults on Terra during the Amaris Coup sending dozens of asteroids towards the jump points shattering them as they approached the jump points. Fortunately for the Capellans only the Anhui is affected by these tactics. The remaining WarShips and the Capellan DropShips immediately began heading into the system.
Five days later as the Capellans passed the first planet of the Highspire system six Mule-class Pocket WarShips supported by six squadrons of automated aerospace fighters. Immediately the Mules started spitting out nuclear tipped capital missiles. The Sun-Tzu Liao turned into the way of the incoming capital missiles taking out half of them with the ship's anti-missile systems while the ship itself took four direct hits from the missiles. The Feng Huang 2 died in a nuclear fireball the ship's sacrifice had bought the Capellan ground forces time to scatter clearing the way for the Tikonov's and Sian's aerospace fighters to move in and eliminate the Pocket DropShips and their fighters.
Continuing in system for another six days the remaining two Capellan WarShips and the Capellan ground troops finally arrived at Highspire. When ground based naval lasers and capital missiles struck out at two of the Red Lancers DropShips as they entered the planetary atmosphere. Unwilling to risk further DropShips until the defences were broken the two Tikonov-class Carriers sent scores of aerospace fighters into the atmosphere on strike missions designed to weaken Highspire's defence.
Unfortunately for the people of Highspire after holding the siege for more a week there was still no end to the resistance, and with mounting aerospace losses, the WarShip commanders were authorized by Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao to use any means necessary to end Highspire's defiance of Sian. Both WarShips armed their aerospace fighters with nuclear weapons while positioning their ships on either side of the planet. Until the end of August 3089 the Capellans conducted an orbital bombardment of the planet below systematically targeting each of the planet's population centres. During September the Capellans finally landed on the planet however they were not there to occupy the world instead the ground forces each wearing environmental protection gear conducted “scorched-earth†tactics destroying any building that could provide shelter, executing any survivors they found. Despite all the Capellan efforts no sign of Cameron St Jamis-Liao was found on the planet. By the end of 3089 the Capellan Confederation had officially abandoned the Highspire system.
Bandit Hunting
Federated Suns/Snow Raven Border
9th August 3089
After successfully eliminating two Bandit Leaders and capturing a third, with Snow Raven assistance, Prince Burton Davon is promoted to the rank of Leftenant-Colonel and transferred off bandit duties off operations to the First Davion Guards RCT for further training in understanding and operating an RCT by the AFFS High Command. This transfer means he is once again separated from Sterling McKenna something that annoys Burton more than missing out on adventure on the borders.
Nova Cat Command Briefing
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat's Den
21st August 3089
On the Nova Cat Homeworld of New Barcella Canin Rosse sat around a small table with three of his Galaxy Commanders, Star Admiral Anders McKenna, Oathmaster Zane Carns and new saKhan Ajax Drummond. “As of this morning Star Colonel Isaiah Khatib attempted to bring the Goliath Scorpions on New Port Royal under the command and jurisdiction of our Clan in a Trial of Absorption.†Ajax Drummond said briefing them on the days events. “Unfortunately the Forty-Fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers were unsuccessful in their attempt losing their entire trial force including Star Colonel Khatib.â€
“A damned shame†Tyrina Drummond the Galaxy Commander of Xi Galaxy and Khatib's commander “he was a good Cluster Commander even for a Cloud Cobra.â€
“Do we know what sparked the Trial?†Canin Rosse asked
“Aff, the arrival of two more JumpShips carrying further Goliath Scorpions including we believe civilians.†Anders McKenna said “the Star Colonel believed, correctly I think, that the Goliath Scorpion presence on New Port Royal was beginning to threaten Nova Cat interests there. On the world now there are almost as many Goliath Scorpions as there are Nova Cats.â€
“Is our contingency in place?†Canin Rosse asked both Anders McKenna and saKhan Ajax Drummond nodded “good then we allow the presence of the Goliath Scorpions for now. I want us to continue to check and recheck our plans regarding the Goliath Scorpions and the Atropos. If any additional Goliath Scorpions arrive we may need to activate the contingency sooner before it gets out of control.â€
“That ship will take a lot of killing.†Ajax said “even with our plans in place we have nothing that can match a Nightlord for firepower.â€
“It is a prize†Anders McKenna said quietly “in her damaged state and without support she is vulnerable we can hit her from multiple angles and overwhelm her. The ground troops are actually more vulnerable as well.†The Star Admiral suggested “I am not an expert on ground combat but having to defend the additional civilians will cause them more issues the longer it goes on. Even having to trial against us for food and shelter is weakening them.â€
“Aff, the Star Admiral is right.†Canin Rosse said “we will continue to push them perhaps they eventually turn to us...†he suggested smiling slightly seeing the looks he was receiving from the other Nova Cats. “And if they do not then we will be ready for them will all the firepower we will require. Ensure all our people understand that our ultimate goal is the protection of the Nova Cat's Den whatever the cost.†He said each of the Nova Cats around the table nodded their agreement. Canin wondered if they really understood he'd seen the fighting in the Clan Homeworlds none seemed to understand how broken they had become how desperate. If the Goliath Scorpions here had survived that then they could be more deadly than any Clan warriors the Nova Cats had ever fought before.
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Unclaimed system
Nueva Castile, Deep Periphery
12th September 3089
Star Admiral Theodore Albiev rested comfortably in his seat on the bridge of the CFM Resolute deep in thought. For the past three months, Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga had been shadowed by a fleet of unknown strength since their exodus from Clan Space. Only luck and the suspicions of Cassandra Faraday allowed them to identify a Bug-Eye-class surveillance craft tailing the fleet. The only thing they knew for certain was the ship not controlled by them, nor was it controlled by Clan Sea Fox, for their small trading compound on Atreus had evacuated with the fleet and therefore did not need to tail the retreating Kindraa. Therefore, an unknown faction was monitoring their movements. It was likely one of the Serpent Clans from the Homeworlds hoping to catch the Fire Mandrills during a recharge cycle or force one of the ships to breakdown.
Their luck had held out long enough for his Kindraa to reach their new home located on a small, barely habitable moon orbiting a gas giant in a system rich in resources. Technically the system laid within the borders of the Nueva Castile but the locals hadn't exploited this system either because it was beyond their ability or be their interest. While the system was not populated, its proximity to the Hanseatic League and its abundant resources made it the ideal world to restart the clan while keeping a small profile. For the past four days, Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga had begun building a settlement on the moon, even while building what would likely be much-needed defensive positions. His clan will make a valiant defense of its new home.
He was suddenly brought out from his thoughts. “Radiation Spike! Fourteen vessels!†reported a tech on the bridge. As he and Star Commodore Malcolm, the Resolute’s commander, glanced at each other, the technician continued his report. “Three warships confirmed! Repeat! Three confirmed!†At this, he paused, gathering his wits, it seemed. “Fleet is mostly from Clan Fire Mandrill,†he spoke at last.
“Quiaff?†Theodore asked. Seeing the technician nod his head, he turned to the Scientist manning the communications. “Get me the Kindraa Leader now!â€
Not half a minute later, the older Scientist replied, “The Kerensky’s Truth is hailing all frequencies Star Admiral.†Without being told, the Scientist transferred the hail to his screen.
“-s Khan Garret Sainze of the only true Fire Mandrills. I lead the entirety of Sainze forces against you, Cassandra. The blood feud between us and our two kindraa ends today with your death and the death of your dezgra kindraa! This I promise to my dying breath! With what forces will you pitifully die with, stravag? Or are you coward enough to flee like freebirth children in the faces of true warriors? Of true clansmen?â€
All across the bridge, no one spoke. No one needed to. For everyone shook with unrivaled passion and fury at their Kindraa’s historical and most hated rival within their shared clan. Minutes passed by until another image popped up in his personal monitor. This one, however, was one he was proud to die for. Cassandraa Faraday spoke quietly, determinedly. “We are not cowards. We do not run. Come to these coordinates, if you so wish your death. You will find neither stravags, nor dezgra among us. Though I know you cannot say the same, Sainze barbarian. Seyla.â€
For two days, the Faraday-Tanaga forces awaited the dezgra Sainze forces. And during them, Theodore Albiev and his brethren planned and completed preparations for the defense of their kindraa and its new home. “Ten minutes to combat. Repeat, ten minutes to combat,†sounded on the intercom throughout the CFM Resolute. In CIC, Theodore Albiev waited patiently. He could see the crew members around him diligently going along with their duties. He was impressed. Despite having only been together for three months, many of the crew was handpicked by both he and Star Commodore Malcolm Lynn, they had melded together well. While Theodore would command the space battle down here, Malcolm would command the ship in the battle.
He was interrupted in his thoughts when Cassandra Faraday’s voice came on in the intercom. “Members of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga. Hear me. The destiny of our Clan is in our hands. In your hands. Work together. Fight hard. And we will emerge victorious. Seyla.†Theodore smiled as he heard the numerous crew members in the room and down the hall shout out seyla. Only Cassandra Faraday could give a speech that short and get the best out of people.
He spoke loudly. “You all heard her. Seyla.†Throughout the ship the word echoed as it was repeated by every member of the crew.
Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday sat in the cockpit of her Summoner, waiting for the Sainze to come to her. There, her mind had wandered a bit. She, a clanswoman at forty-four years of age, many considered a legend. Her talent for identifying the possible actions, consequences, and outcomes, both inside and outside Clan Fire Mandrill, had secured her lineage. But even she could not have foreseen Kindraa Sainze being the ones chasing them. One of the Serpent Clans surely would have come? Clan Coyote just did not have enough warships and JumpShips to target her kindraa, nor did she believe they had the drive or the wish for her destruction. The dezgra Burrocks were too focused in Clan Space to likely chase after them too focused on their own quest for destruction and death. But not Kindraa Sainze, she could not think of any reason why the Sainze would chase her Kindraa down to Clan society her forces should no longer matter they should be abjured, she couldn't argue against that, but Sainze's actions amounted to a Trial of Annihilation it was far beyond a blood feud.
As her thoughts drifted through what had happened, what was happened and what was going to happen she realized it didn't matter she had failed, her people were at risk and it was due to her actions, now she had to work out what to do next and find a true safe haven for her Clan. She knew that this new home despite its resources was no longer the place her people needed. She knew that she had a decent enough chance of a victory today despite being outnumbered nearly two to one in Mechs. Kindraa Sainze was at this very moment being harried by Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga’s abundant air support, each minute each second cost the Sainze forces a little bit more. The dezgra Sainze leaped at the chance to fight and had mistakenly went after Star Colonel Megan Angharobis and the remnants of her 12th Support Cluster into the plateau below her and the majority of her Kindraa. The plateau, surrounded by large hills, was crucial in her efforts to defeat the dezgra Sainze.
Clicking her radio, she spoke, “The Sainze are here, everyone keep with the plan, and we will be victorious today. If I should fall, Star Colonel Jerold Danforth will take command. Quiaff?†As her fellow warriors confirmed this, Cassandra could only grimace in distaste. Though she was grooming Star Admiral Theodore Albiev to one day be her successor as Kindraa Leader, she had easily recognized the Star Admiral just did not have enough ground combat experience to carry today, something she would have to rectify after the coming battle. She easily recognized Star Colonel Aemelia of the 14th Support Cluster and Star Captain Lysa Djerassi could both easily assume command of the battle if she passed. Unfortunately Aemelia, a former Smoke Jaguar warrior, had long ago refused to become a bloodnamed warrior after the death of her former Clan and she still had not fully converted to being a Fire Mandrill even after twenty-six years of being a member of the Kindraa. Star Captain Lysa Djerassi had the skill, but not the rank to be the second in command, today needed more than the skills. She commanded the Specialist Trinaries in the battle as an ad-hoc cluster, however and would likely need to pass a Trial of Position to the rank of Star Colonel after today.
That left only Kindraa Loremaster Jacob Faraday and Star Colonel Jerold Danforth with the skill and rank to assume command. Of the two, she easily preferred Jacob Faraday over Jerold Danforth. Unfortunately, with the survival of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga at stake, she needed Jerold’s forty years of experience in the battle to carry the day. He was primary political enemy within Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga since her ascension to being Kindraa Leader twenty-two years ago meant this was particularly insulting to her. He, like Aemelia, just refused to die.
She was brought out of her thoughts by her screen coming to life with the face of said Star Colonel. “Star Colonel Jerold Danforth, I was just thinking about you,†she spoke diplomatically. His answer with his patented cold stare unnerved her, so she continued, “Are the 1st and 3rd Battle Clusters ready Star Colonel?†Her question was answered with a simple nod. After a few moments he cut the transmission on his side. Always an odd one, she thought. No sooner than the thought entered her mind did she see the Sainze had started to charge across the plateau.
“All artillery guns! Fire!†was her command. She didn’t need to give coordinates, having given that duty to Star Colonel Aemelia. As the 12th Support Cluster finally reached what everyone had come to call the Wall, she could see in her scopes the artillery started to have an effect. Aemelia, for all of her keeping to the Smoke Jaguar ways, was an excellent artillery commander, the concentrated artillery strikes were focused on the flanks of their enemy forcing the Sainze mechs closer to one another. The tactic was honourless, there was nothing any of her Warriors would happily take from today, but then Sainze's actions had already ruled out an honourable fight.
As the Sainze warriors reached a kilometer from the Wall, Cassandra could see the artillery suddenly shift away from the Sainze flanks, blasting into the front of the now tightly packed column. Still the Sainze poured into range. Cassandra did not need to give the order to fire each of her people knew what was at stake. All across the wall, missiles, gauss shells, lasers, and PPC’s were fired into the oncoming Sainze formation, and were quickly answered in kind. The Wall, mostly a huge dirt hill with bunkers and foxholes buried into it, soaked much of the fire as mechs crouched down or moved into a bunker preventing some of the damage but Cassandra could see her people were taking losses a light Adder OmniMech take an autocannon blast to the chest and fall to the ground. Cassandra had no chance to see if the pilot was able to bring the Mech back to its feet as her own Summoner was under as much fire.
The battle continued and was unlike any Clan Trial Cassandra had every experienced continuous fighting retreats and charges as each side assaulted the other in a brutal fashion the Khan had been right in his description this was a blood-feud no quarter asked none given. The forward Sainze elements were almost upon the Wall causing her forward line to bend and buckle. Cassandra could see the Sainze Elementals start jumping off the first mechs as their forward forces valiantly tried to make a beachhead through her lines. Even as she avoided weapons fire from several directions Cassandra was aware enough to tell the artillery had stopped, signaling to the Faraday-Tanaga forces and her of the vast majority of Sainze forces being within 800 meters of the Wall everything now would be up to the individual warriors, their skills and their luck. This was confirmed shortly afterward when Star Captain Lysa Djerassi radioed her to inform her of the Specialist Trinaries were being deployed to surround the mass of Sainze warriors. Everywhere one looked there were Mechs, vehicles and Elementals firing pouring over the defensive Wall.
Cassandra quickly took stock of the fighting and radioed all her forces. “Phase three now!†She barked into the transmitter pace three was the order for Star Colonel Jerold Danforth and his two clusters to scurry from their hiding places on the other side of the hills surrounding the plateau and pin the Sainze forces between her forces and his as fast as they can. Unfortunately, it meant that for roughly five to seven minutes, her forces would still be fighting at least a two to one handicap. All around the edges of the plateau, artillery smoke rounds started landing, covering the movements of the First and Third Battle Clusters if the Sainze forces realized what was happening they could try to fall back and slip out of the trap her people were setting.
As she and her forces awaited their arrival, she could see the line thinning in the middle to left side of the Wall. Knowing behind the Wall laid the Fortress-class DropShips providing artillery fire and then the Faraday-Tanaga settlement where their civilians resided, Seeing the gap Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday quickly led her command supernova into the gap. Firing her Extended Range Large and Medium lasers in an alpha strike, she destroyed a badly damaged medium Huntsman. She saw a barrage of missiles being destroyed by her two anti-missile systems. As she waited to fire her medium lasers, she saw a Warhawk looming towards her, firing three PPC’s at her. Using her jump jets, she avoided two of the PPC’s, but the third slammed into the lower half of her Mech's leg damaging the ankle actuator. Landing behind the 85-ton mech, she again fired at the Mech using everything she had the heat within her OmniMech's cockpit shot up as her heat sinks were overwhelmed. As the Warhawk turned to face her, she saw three of her star mates turn and fire lasers, autocannons and missiles at the assault mech. Suddenly she felt the back of her mech get hit. Looking at the screen and the warning sings blaring out, she saw a 60-ton Predator BattleMech behind her. Lovely, she thought, for the second-line BattleMech was very deadly in close quarters, with its two Heavy LB-X Autocannons. As the mech fired its two medium lasers at hers, she again used her jump jets shooting up heat in her cockpit again. This time she landed on top of the Mech and then on her Mech’s feet she felt the Summoner's actuator buckle under the landing forcing her seventy ton Mech into a stumble.
As she tried vainly to control her Summoner she fought to turn back to face the Predator, right then her mech was slammed in the torso by PPC fire from the Warhawk, knocking her and her OmniMech to the ground. As she fought to bring her Mech back up she missed the Warhawk's death as her star mates concentrated on the OmniMech's destruction. As she tried to get her mech back up, the Sainze Predator fired its twin autocannons at her Summoner, causing her to hit her head on the screen hard, knocking her out.
As she came to, Cassandra saw a blurry head in her view. Forcing her body up, she was held down as she heard a voice talk to her. “Easy Kindraa Leader. You have a severe concussion and stitches in your head, neck and chest. You're probably going to have a couple of new scars.â€
“What happened?†she asked, collapsing back into the bed her head thumped continuously.
A different voice answered her this time. “You were knocked out securing a hole in the Wall just as my cluster and the 1st met the Sainze. We followed the plan and defeated our Kindraa lives,†answered Star Colonel Jerold Danforth. “I personally fought and defeated Garret Sainze.†He said proudly Cassandra knew he would be using this victory today, his victory, for years to come against her.
Grimacing at him, she asked, “what of our losses?â€
“Our second-line forces are down to barely cluster-strength. They and the remnants of the Sixteenth Assault are currently operating under Star Colonel Aemelia’s command. My cluster is at eighty percent while the First is at about seventy. We lost Star Colonels Megan Angharobis and Christopher Tanaga." He said further blows to their people. "Star Colonel Stephanie Bush of the First is in surgery as we speak, but is likely to survive. Star Captain Lysa Djerassi is crippled and has asked for permission to commit seppuku.†Cassandra winced at the thought of a warrior wishing to commit suicide and at the losses her people had taken.
Alarmed from not hearing anything about her lover, she asked, “What of Loremaster Jacob Faraday?â€
At this, the usually solemn star colonel answered with a feral smile, “He is currently entertaining Garret Sainze.â€
“Entertaining? Wait, I thought you defeated and killed him? Quiaff?†she asked.
“Neg, I said I defeated him. We need answers why the dezgra Sainze came here. So I ensured his capture. Cost us six warriors, but I believe their loss will be worth it.†Seeing Cassandra pale, he reached down and handed her the trash can. After she threw up, he spoke. “Get some rest, Cassandra, I will ensure things continue until you are ready. Our battles with one another can wait until our Kindraa is safe.†Cassandra Faraday nodded to him as he left.
“How well is this information?†Cassandra asked Jacob Faraday. Around her bed, the leadership of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga either sat or stood, aside from Stephanie Bush and Lysa Djerassi, the former just out of surgery and resting; the latter crippled and paralyzed from the waist down. Cassandra had refused Lysa the right to commit suicide her time would come but not today.
“Very. Directly from former Khan Garret Sainze himself,†he answered.
As she took this in she looked at Aemelia and Jerold Danforth. Both were close to the door likely not wanting to be in her presence today was not a good one this news combined with the news being presented to her made her people's position her even more tenuous. Star Colonel Jerold Danforth answered then “Kindraa Mick-Kreese-Kline and Sainze together joined this Society in return for Clan Fire Mandrill being rewarded a leadership position when they would take over Clan Space. When we up and left, the Society apparently demanded Garret Sainze personally go after us to ensure we do not escape for some reason. Even after our victory here, we can only assume they will still be after us since the Bug-Eye surveillance craft jumped as soon as the naval battle had ended,†he summarized which was the next sore point Sainze's naval forces had caused death and damage that could not be repaired in a hurry.
At this, Cassandra could see most were apprehensive about waging another battle. After all their Kindraa lost half of its warriors during the previous battle Aemelia voiced their thoughts then. “We cannot continue to take these kinds of losses.†Cassandra could see the elderly woman look around the room and then continued, “I say we up and leave this rock for the Inner Sphere.â€
Cassandra and the others looked at each other, though no one spoke. At last, Jacob Faraday spoke up. “Your reasons for this, Smoke Jaguar?†he asked in a condescended way "we are hardly in a position to invade the Inner Sphere."
Seeing a fight about to break out between the two, Star Admiral Theodore Albiev walked in their way. “Star Colonel Jacob Faraday, need I remind you Star Colonel Aemelia has been a warrior for longer then you have been alive?†Seeing the younger warrior looking embarrassed, the older warrior continued, “She is merely suggesting her opinion and it is a good one. One that I am for as well if we approach it correctly.â€
After seeing the others in the room start to nod at this, Cassandra decided to it was time to make a decision. “It is decided then. We head for the Inner Sphere. Does anyone have an idea where to go to,†she asked, looking directly at the lone Sea Fox member in the room who was there purely as an observer but now his testimony could be pivotal for the Kindraa.
At this, he nodded. “There is a small nation of planets that exists on this side of the Lyran Commonwealth. One of them recently re-declared their independence the Rim Collection. The world of All Dawn has everything that your people need. The Rim Collection will be able to defend themselves but if you can secure All Dawn you will be in a good position to bargain with the Rim Collection for a permanent holding in the area. Your people's positioning on All Dawn and your willingness to work with the people of the Rim Collection could be the perfect way to secure your futures.
“Well,†Cassandra asked to everyone in the room. Seeing some nod while others shrugged she glanced at Star Colonel Jerold Danforth only to be answered with a stare.
At last, he decided to speak his own opinion. “I am a Crusader. I am the acknowledged leader of the Crusaders within the Kindraa. If this gets me closer to fighting in the Inner Sphere and closer to taking Holy Terra, I am in. Working with these people could be difficult but we will see."
“It is decided. We head to the planet. All Dawn. And let Garret Sainze and the other Sainze warriors we captured in the battle rot here. I want none of them with us we are Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga our future is in our own hands." She declared.
Nationwide Broadcast, Interstellar News Network
Ecol City, Thorin
Star League Protectorate
18th September 3089
Standing in the full uniform of the Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force Archer Christifori looked directly into the Interstellar News Network camera. “Ladies and Gentlemen today is a special day I can announce that the Second Royal Striker Regiment has been activated on the world of Thorin. Its activation completes the Star League Defence Forces Fourth Division. I can also announce that as of the hour of this transmission the Star League Defence Force has taken possession of the SLS Tamarind. The third Unity-class Frigate to be completed by the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby the SLS Tamarind has been donated to the Star League Defence force by the government on the world of the same name. I would personally like to thank Captain-General Anthony Brett-Marik for choosing to support the Star League Defence Force and I hope that in the future we can strengthen the links between our nations and our defence forces.†He said breaking eye contact with the camera for the first time looking back his eyes were noticeably watered “it has been an honour to serve as Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force, it was an honour to fight as part of the forces that founded this great organization in the destruction of Clan Smoke Jaguar completing the campaign to end the Clan Invasion.†He said reminiscing over past triumphs “however as that great saying states 'All good things must come to an end.' With this in mind I have chosen to retire as Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force effectively as of midnight tonight local Thorin time. I do this in hopes that my passing of the baton to new blood will breath new life and new drive into the Star League and knit our peoples closer together. As of midnight tonight Fleet Admiral David Natale will become the Star League Defence Forces new Commanding-Admiral. I know I can speak for all members of the SLDF and for the Current First Lord that the Admiral will have everyone's full support. I thank you all for the time and the belief you have all placed in me. Good night.†Archer said before saluting the camera in full parade stance. Within hours of the announcement Archer had been named as Thorin's new Governor as the current governor suddenly chose his time to retire also. It seemed that despite Archer's need for a more quiet life the Inner Sphere was not done with him yet.
Outside Weingarten Orbit
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
22nd September 3089
A fleet entered the Weingarten system of the Clan Wolf Occupation Zone. First to enter was the Ward's Legacy commanded by Khan Nathan Fetladral beside him stood another Khan but not one wearing the Clan Wolf uniform. Instead Khan Carl Heller wore the uniform of Clan Coyote and he was not alone. Behind them two Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers, two York-class Destroyer/Carriers, a Liberator-class Cruiser and several JumpShips all bearing the Clan Coyote crest.
“Welcome to your new home, Khan Heller†Fetladral said glancing up at the Coyote Elemental.
“You do us honour, Khan Fetladral†Heller said “a new place to call our home.â€
“Your Clan has sacrificed much Khan Heller, your Clan has fulfilled its agreement with us. Despite the troubles on the Homeworlds the Coyotes held by all the deals we made. Clan Wolf honours its allies and its agreements.†Khan Fetladral said “your territories will increase as you settle.â€
“Our ships need their repairs, our personnel need rest but soon the Coyotes will be ready to raise again.†Heller commented looking at the Ward's Legacy's scans of the world. “How are Clan Wolf's preparations proceeding?â€
“At pace†Fetladral said quietly the Wolf operations were completely secret but soon Clan Wolf would be ready and Fetladral relished the challenges ahead. “Concentrate on preparing your people, it won't take long before the other Clans are made aware of your presence.â€
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;D So you now have the Clan FM at Rim Collection, Clan Cayote with Clan Wolf and Clan GS at Clan Nova Cat territory. The diaspora of the clans is turning out to be more of a matter for their respective clan's survival than of conquest. Very nice update!
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;D So you now have the Clan FM at Rim Collection, Clan Cayote with Clan Wolf and Clan GS at Clan Nova Cat territory. The diaspora of the clans is turning out to be more of a matter for their respective clan's survival than of conquest. Very nice update!
You've missed one that's been mentioned making a home in the Periphery.
And now you can say good bye to one
Sea Fox Enclaves
Spica, Federated Suns/St Ives Compact
Sea Fox Territory
2nd October 3089
Around the table there were nine members of Clan Sea Fox together for the first time in several years looking around the room Hanna Coston took in a sight she had not seen for many years. The other Khanate leaders had dispersed throughout the Inner Sphere and Clan Occupation Zones and rarely met together. Even with all her travel Hanna Coston could not keep in touch with all the Khanates today was a day hopefully that they could begin anew. “As discussed the production of WarShips will continue and they will continue to be deployed in the manner they have been ordered...â€
“Some continue to be stronger.†Galaxy Commander Stephen Faulk of the Starstrike Khanate said his Khanate was one of the weakest in the Sea Fox Clan.
“...the continued security around our enclaves is of paramount importance.â€
“And the increase of our territory?†Galaxy Commander Blake Hunter of the Bloodscent Khanate inquired. “We still do not have a territory within the Raven Alliance or Capellan Confederation...â€
“We need to have no interest in the Capellan Confederation!†Galaxy Commander Evangeline Clarke snapped “any of you who attempt to gain territory within that state will face Trial of Grievance from me.†She said the Steelsoul Khanate still held a grudge after the trouble they had when they established a colony on the world of Sarna and the Capellan Confederation destroyed their people.
“Our territorial expansion instead turns away from the Inner Sphere and at the Clans.†Hanna Coston said “today the Deathstrike Khanate secured Tukayyid from Clan Ghost Bear. The world has been taken completely by our Clan.†She said the Deathstrike was the Khan's Khanate and Tukkayid was a well known name to the Clans.
“An interesting target†Semi Kalasa the Loremaster said. “One that we hardly need.â€
“Neither the Bears or the Wolves wanted it, too much connection to the Truce and to Ulric Kerensky, for us we can use it.†Hanna Coston said passionately “our Clan has drifted apart. We do not honour each other or ourselves with this continued division.†She stated loudly for several moments she thought one of the warriors would argue with her but none spoke out. “I wish to make Tukayyid a great meeting place for the Clans, for our Clan, as Strana Mechty once served.â€
“A Capitol World? Here in the Inner Sphere among these barbarians?†Evangeline Clarke stated angrily.
“We live and we die among them each day, Galaxy Commander. Our Khanates were formed around them.†She pointed out “if we continue down the path we are heading our Clan will cease to be.â€
“How can we recreate something that is broken? The Clans are killing each other in the Homeworlds even as we speak!†Angus Labov shouted angrily raising from his chair “have we the right to claim we are anything but the same as them?â€
“We are no better†Hanna Coston stated “we are no better than the other Clans that have traveled to the Inner Sphere.†She pointed out “but we are also no better than the people of the Inner Sphere.†Her words instantly brought uproar from all the other Clansmen around her “SILENCE!†She shouted over them all “if you have a Grievance I will hear it with a challenge!†She called out none of them spoke against her. “And there lies our problem. Today I say we step forward knowing who we are, and what we want. Today we realize who we are, that we live with the people of the Inner Sphere, we work with the people of the Inner Sphere, we are people of the Inner Sphere.†She said the others in the room slowly took their seats “but we are also Clan. We are trothkin, born to the same soil, raised into the same ways. We cannot forget where we have come from or where we are going.â€
“Hanna Coston, you mark this day by announcing the capture of the world Tukayyid you can start a new for us? Our Clan chases profit as we have done for all of our existence. Tukayyid is not a profitable world it is a place of death.†Galaxy Commander Raven Ghilberti pointed out.
“If you are looking for profit I can announce the sale of Extended Range Lasers to the Federated Suns and the joint development of a new Battle Armour suit, which has been named the Sea Fox.†Hanna Coston announced surprising many the Clan had never named a unit after its namesake. “We will make Tukayyid a world of profit for us. We have shown across the Inner Sphere and with the other Clans that they will buy what we produce. We will turn Tukayyid into a world of factories and sell our wears to the other Clans.†She pointed out “would you not all like a place that takes our buyers to us instead of the need for us going to them. We make Tukayyid our seat of power and they will come to us.†She said the other Khanate leaders were not convinced but none argued for now at least.
SLS Freedom (Republic-class Frigate)
Abandoned SLDF Test Site
EC3057-J83A, Periphery
13th October 3089
After years studying the data acquired in the vaults of Terra and those recovered from the Ruins of Gabriel the SLS Freedom was deployed to the distant periphery world of EC3057-J83A. Behind it came three Invader-class JumpShips each carrying three Mule-class DropShips. Within the CIC of the Republic-class Frigate Captain Juan Pablo Aznar saw the representation of the Freedom's sensor scan pulse through the system near the seventh planet there were three faint replies as the ship detected objects that were not natural. Deeper in the system there were further contacts. “Set a course for the seventh planet. Order the Apollo and Hera to scan each of the other planets then rendezvous with us, the Mules are all to follow us in.†He said naming the two Pueblo-class Surveillance Craft attached to his WarShip.
Taking a slow 1G burn to the seventh planet the “fleet†of the Freedom and the nine Mule's arrived revealing the contacts. “Battle-stations†Drake ordered more as a precaution than anything their scans had shown no power signatures or activity.
“Sir, still no activity.â€
“Have Apollo go over the top and Hera take the low route. Full scans relay information to us.†He said as the Freedom began to slow “Mules hold back.†The two Pueblos flanked the shipyards sending their information back to the Freedom. “Well would you look at that†he whispered “the Star League didn't do things by half did they? One functional shipyard and three Kigamure-class WarShips.â€
“Sir, we have an IFF hit from one of the WarShips SLS Surprise the other two appear to have extensive refit works that were begun and not finished.†One of the officers replied.
“As we expected†Aznar replied “have the Flint and Supplier deploy their marines, secure the facility. All other units are to maintain their distance.†He said turning to the communication officer “prepare the HPG for a Priority call to Terra. Full Encryption. Inform command 'We have a Surprise plus two all secured in cradle.'†He said the officer nodded. Turning back to the sensor scans he noticed that readings of the planet were coming in as well “not the warmest of places but doesn't look too bad.†He thought “its Mundo Nublar†he whispered in his native Spanish/Portuguese, it meant Cloud World, seeing the images from the SLS Freedom's sensors the world was covered in water and clouds. “Once the shipyard and the ships are secured have the Apollo make a pass over the research facility check if it's viable for occupation.†He said according to the reports the research base had enough space for over three hundred personnel despite the stormy conditions the perfect hidden ground base on a system hidden away from all eyes.
Marshalry Academy
Paradiso, Fronc
Fronc Reaches, Periphery
20th October 3089
Although Fronc was a pleasant world it was far removed from New Avalon. Was capital of the small periphery nation the Fronc Reaches, nestled between the Taurian Concordat, Magistracy of Canopus and the Capellan Confederation. It had grown from what was known as the New Colony Regions created by the Taurians and the Magistracy in a combined effort into an independent nation. The nation's bid for independence had caused friction with its neighbouring nations meaning not many people traveled there but today it was host for a special visit.
At the recently opened Marshalry Academy in the capital city of Paradiso Duchess Edre McEvens led the tour of the facility for her sister Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion. Danai who had traveled from New Avalon to visit her sister Edre was following on a promise she had made to her sister Naomi Centrella before her death. Around the Marshalry Academy there was almost two regiments of Davion troops that had accompanied Danai while in orbit the FSS Audacity, a First Prince-class Battleship, orbited providing security but that did not matter to Danai or to Edre today it was the first time in years they had been together. Ever since Danai left behind her life in the Magistracy as first-born of Emma Centrella to marry Victor Steiner-Davion in 3061 the two had not been together they had exchanged messages via HPG and courier but little else.
Now Edre led Danai through the recently completed training complex. Her dark hair was far longer than Danai remembered her years had been good to her even with the small amount of grey entering her hair only heightened her beauty. Two years older Danai's life had been even better to her she was married to the leader of one of the greatest nations of the Inner Sphere her family life was stable her children successful and happy.
“As you can see from these windows you have great views onto the city and of your bodyguard.†Edre said as the two approached a large panes of glass. Outside there were BattleMechs and vehicles painted in the Blue, White and Reds of House Davion's Brigade of Guards.
“A beautiful world, Edre. You should be very proud.†Danai said politely following the younger woman's gaze.
“We are Danai, we are†she said “why did you come here today?
“I made a promise†Danai replied “our sister Naomi said that we should visit each other sometime. I suggested we should all come here but affairs of state kept her busy. I said I would visit when I was able.â€
“You are not afraid of how it will look a Federated Suns unit on this world, a WarShip over our skies?†She asked her husband President Dirk McEvens had been worried when Danai had suggested the visit but Danai had promised it was only a family visit nothing more.
“Our troops are standing side-by-side with yours Edre and our WarShip is out of weapons range it is here purely to support us. I came here to see my sister.â€
“Perhaps†Edre said still unconvinced she had learned the hard way that her nation was vulnerable to the larger nations in their region.
“If it will make you feel better I will order my people to stand off and allow yours to continue to hold the defence? I will only keep my personal security?†Danai suggested Edre nodded. Danai turned to the head of her protection detail. “Major Steiner have our people rally to the DropShips and fall into secondary duties, Alpha protection detail is to stay on primary duties.†She ordered although Danai had officially retired from the AFFS she still knew their protocols like the back of her hand.
“Yes, Duchess†Major Richard Steiner, son of Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner, replied he had been in command of her protection detail for two years now and knew that once she had decided on something there was little going back on it. He would however be keeping other units on hot standby should he need them.
“Now, can we just be sisters for a while?†Danai asked her younger sister who replied with a smile and an offered arm. Linking arms the two sisters continued on through the facility catching up on time lost. This continued beyond the Academy back at the McEvens family estate where Danai also met Dirk McEvens and their daughter Emma the young twenty-seven year old who may one day lead the small state. Both the Fronc Reaches and Federated Suns were quick to point out that this was purely a family visit nothing more to both Fronc Reaches media and beyond. The FSS Audacity took Danai and her party back to the Federated Suns without incident with neither the Capellan Confederation or Taurian Concordat wishing to challenge the powerful battleship.
Battlesite, True Vision (Congress-class Heavy Frigate)
Orbit, New Port Royal
Nova Cat's Den, Periphery
23rd October 3089
Star Commodore Alex Bravos wiped the blood from his eyes as the True Vision shook under several more weapon impacts. The True Vision and several other Nova Cat WarShips had moved in on New Port Royal after the Goliath Scorpion WarShip Atropos had turned its guns on the Remembrance and the Nebulous. The Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser and York-class Destroyer/Carrier had been tasked with presenting the Nova Cat's public face watching the Goliath Scorpion Nightlord-class Battleship however they had not been the only Nova Cat assets in the area. All within a single jump were six other Nova Cat WarShips ready to pounce should they be needed. With the Storm, a Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft watching the Atropos from a safe distance there was no way for the Goliath Scorpion vessel to hide its actions. Each of the six Nova Cat WarShips had jumped in together and immediately engaged the single damaged Goliath Scorpion vessel. The one-point-two million ton craft had continued to fight until almost every metre of its kilometre length was potholed by Nova Cat fire. Of the six WarShips that had jumped in four would, including the True Vision would need extensive repairs after today but that didn't matter the Nova Cats knew that should the Goliath Scorpions attack it would take a lot to kill them. “Roll to port present them with the starboard armour it is in better condition than the rest†Bravos ordered. “Have White Aerie and Bond hold their positions and block their path just in case they get desperate.â€
“Sir Elemental Stars from the Karl Devalis have boarded the Atropos!†One of the technicians announced triumphantly. Elemental Armour equipped marines from the Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser had finally made it to their target.
“Don't celebrate yet she has some killing to do before those Elementals can secure her! And we still have their ground forces to crush!†Bravos snapped looking at the image of the Nightlord hanging between the Nova Cat WarShips the Goliath Scorpions had broken all the rules of Clan warfare after losing a Trial of Absorption to the local Nova Cat Garrison. They had gone on the offensive wiping out three Nova Cat ground force clusters and the two orbiting WarShips instead of surrendering they had secured the world as their own.
Unfortunately for the Goliath Scorpions the Nova Cats had taken precautions and were far more in number and in better condition than the battered visiting clan. Along with the six WarShips that had entered the system two Galaxies of front-line Nova Cat troops had come along with them. While the capital ships had engaged the Atropos the ground forces had engaged remaining Goliath Scorpions on the ground Alpha and Xi Galaxies under the command of Oathmaster Zane Carns led the offensive. Having beaten the slowly rebuilding Delta Galaxy and Sigma Galaxy the two Galaxies wished to prove their worth in the field and the Oathmaster's battlefield abilities. The Nova Cats used this battle to prove several pieces of new technology that had been developed over recent years. Including the Cizin, a new laser equipped hovertank, the Sekhmet another laser equipped armoured vehicle and Nova Cat built Avalanche OmniMechs. The design originally pioneered by the Draconis Combine taken from its Irece factory by a Nova Cat strike team and converted into a true Nova Cat design. Although many Nova Cats saw it as an inferior medium design to the Huntsman or the Shadow Cat they did see it as a superior garrison Mech design for their second-line forces. Even this new technology, with superior numbers and better maintained and rested units the Nova Cats were had fought against the desperate Goliath Scorpions however eventually only a single Goliath Scorpion Cluster remained.
“This is Oathmaster Zane Carns of Clan Nova Cat, your Clan was defeated in a Trial of Absorption. They have been defeated in open battle in space and on these barren sands. Surrender now so we do not have to destroy you all.†He said from his Arctic Cheetah's cockpit the OmniMech was battered but functional. Ahead of his Mech and all the others of Clan Nova Cat were nearly two dozen Goliath Scorpion Mechs, half as many Vehicles and a smattering of Infantry and Battle Armoured forces. To oppose the Nova Cat force would be suicide. Before a reply came through Zane's external communication array bleeped into life “Star Commodore Bavros go ahead.†Zane said recognizing the frequency that linked him to the True Vision's commander.
“Oathmaster, what remains of the Atropos is ours. We believe she is salvageable.†The WarShip commander announced triumphantly even against six Nova Cat WarShips and after all the horrors the WarShip had seen the Nightlord had still refused to die. “All the Goliath Scorpion JumpShips and their remaining DropShips have surrendered.†He added that alone made up for some of the Nova Cat losses.
“Thank you for informing me.†He said switching frequencies once more. “This is Oathmaster Zane Carns I still await your answer however I must inform you that the Atropos has been captured as have all your JumpShips.â€
“Then we are the last of our Clan.†The deflated Scorpion replied “I am Star Colonel Sandra Barclay, commander of the First Eridani Lancers Cluster of Clan Goliath Scorpion. Formerly commander of the Seventy-First Light Horse Regiment of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade of the Star League Defence Force.†She said regaining some of her pride as she recited her history to Zane. “Nova Cat Oathmaster I command what remains of Clan Goliath Scorpion and all those civilians that have escaped the Reaving. There will be no more voices from Clan Goliath Scorpion. Should you kill us all of that Clan's history dies with us.â€
After several long moments Zane made a choice and began to speak “Star Colonel Sandra†he began ignoring her Inner Sphere freebirth name “your Trial of Refusal to refute your loss during your Trial of Absorption has unfortunately been a failure.†He said officially recognizing the Goliath Scorpions attacks on the Nova Cats as part of a trial he guessed he'd face trouble for that but it was the right thing to do. “Your decision to bid all your troops was an unwise one. It allowed the Nova Cat to bid her entire force against you. However your warriors have fought well I accept you as Abtakha under my personal command. You will stand down all your remaining warriors failure to do so will a Trial of Annihilation. You understand Quiaff?â€
“Aff, Oathmaster. Eridani Lancers you heard the Oathmaster stand-down. No complaints do everything we are ordered to.†Sandra said Zane was surprised she added the second part for a moment before thinking it through they were the Eridani Light Horse freeborns, an entire cluster of them, he may have just given himself a new permanent headache.
“Nova Cats of Alpha and Xi Galaxy stand down. Have Elemental Teams check downed pilots any enemy pilots found alive are to be taken as Bondsmen, no exceptions. Have medical teams move in.†He said switching frequencies “Star Commodore Bravos, this is Oathmaster Zane Carns, victory confirmed on the planet.†He said cutting the frequency before a reply was heard. Looking out at the now still battlefield he saw a black horse on a field of yellow on one of the Mechs, the old Eridani Light Horse Regiment's insignia, just what had he let himself in for he wondered.
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Clan Grand Council
New Barcella, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
5th November 3089
The Clan Nova Cat Council was in turmoil following the events on New Port Royal Oathmaster Zane Carns had been transported back to New Barcella rapidly to answer questions. “My fellow Clansmen it seems obvious to me that Khan Rosse has lost control of this situation. He allowed the Goliath Scorpions to land on New Port Royal, he cost us two WarShips and four Clusters worth of warriors!†Galaxy Commander Gwen Winters said angrily “I ask you why?†She challenged the Khan who slowly rose from his chair.
“We Nova Cats are isolated here in the Nova Cat's Den.†Canin began “the Ravens have little interest in conflict with us. The other Clans are far distant†he said continuing “the Goliath Scorpion settlement on New Port Royal gave us an opponent.â€
“The Federated Suns or Taurians could be such an opponent†Gwen Winters suggested Canin saw that many of the Nova Cats agreed with her.
“Is that what we become? The invaders no better than the Smoke Jaguars or Jade Falcons? One a failed Clan the other that cares nothing for its neighbours.†Canin Rosse asked passionately. “Clan Nova Cat has striven to take a different path, and so far my fellow Clankin we have been successful beyond all that the other Clans thought we were capable of. If we had been an invader Clan or one pared with one of the other Clans we may have been driven from the Inner Sphere like the Steel Vipers or destroyed like the Jaguars. Instead we are thriving on these worlds and from the intelligence we have gained from the Goliath Scorpions remaining in the Homeworlds would have been just as much as an opponent.†He said defiantly few matched his gaze all had seen the reports on the debriefing of the Goliath Scorpions the Clan Homeworlds were in the middle of an apocalyptic Civil War. Anyone who did not escape would be burned by the war and never truly be a Clan again. The Society and their Dark Caste allies were overrunning what Clan positions remained soon the Homeworlds would be dead or under Society control.
“So you think we should abandon the Homeworlds, Quineg?†One warrior called out.
“Neg†Canin admitted abandoning the worlds he and his Clan were born to was beyond what he was willing to accept “but we need time. We need to allow the fighting to burn out in the Homeworlds. We need to develop strategies to counter the Society and the level of fighting.†He pointed out none of the Clans had the strength to counter that level of fighting. “To that end I want each Nova Cat Cluster to trial against the First Eridani Lancers Cluster once they have recovered from the recent fighting. Each of us will see what the fires they have gone through has done to them.â€
“You will destroy them?†Oathmaster Zane Carns stated angrily “no unit can fight trial after trial and survive.â€
“They will survive like we all have†one of the Clansmen called out “if they are truly Clansmen they will not fear a trial.â€
“I believe they fear nothing but trial after trial will destroy any unit even your own Nova Cat Guards.†Zane said staring at the Star Captain who had spoken Zane couldn't place the name but he knew the warrior.
“The Oathmaster is right.†Canin Rosse admitted “the Eridani Lancers will face a series of Trials followed by a cool down period before engaging the next series of Trials. Oathmaster, I wish you to set this us, these warriors are under your stewardship Quiaff?â€
“Aff, my Khan†Zane admitted.
“Good†Canin said placing it under the office of the Oathmaster would mean Zane could control how often Eridani warriors faced trials but it also meant that he would have to ensure they did face trials of have his become forfeit. “Our second immediate action will be to restore the Atropos to combat capability.†Canin announced surprising many.
“My Khan, that WarShip is battered beyond recognition Quiaff?†saKhan Ajax Drummond asked
“Neg, I do not believe so. Star Admiral McKenna perhaps our Naval Commander can say more for this?†The Khan asked knowingly he and the Star Admiral had already discussed the Nightlord-class Battleship's fate.
“The Legacy has docked with the Nightlord and stabilized the vessel's orbit. We should be able to make rudimentary repairs to allow her to be moved to the New Barcella shipyards for repairs and upgrades.†McKenna said “the prize crew however remove to call her by her Goliath Scorpion name.â€
“They should refuse to serve on her at all.†Gwen Winters said
“It is a decision that has been made†Ajax Drummond said “accept it or answer it with a challenge.†He stated Gwen Winters refused to reply “is there a name for this vessel?â€
“The Sacred Rite†Zane Carns said quietly
“You said something Oathmaster? Speak loud enough for all to hear†he demanded
“The Sacred Rite saKhan†Zane said louder so all could hear.
“What say you Clan Council?â€
“Seyla!†They all replied in unison even Gwen Winters spoke with them.
“My Khan, the Clan have spoken.â€
“And the Sacred Rite has joined us†Canin Rosse said loudly.
“Seyla!†The Clan replied in agreement.
O5P/ISF Operation
Castle Dieron, Dieron
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
15th November 3089
General Edwin Amis was not the happiest officer on Dieron. The Commander of the SLDF's Eridani Light Horse Brigade was not used to being made to wait unfortunately he had no option in this particular part of the massive Castle Dieron complex the Draconis Combine were in command here. Fortunately the Kurita commander was an accommodating sort, most of the time, today however was not one of these days. Finally the door opened and he was admitted however he was in for a surprise “Where is Tai-sho Noyce?†He asked seeing a woman sitting at the man's desk.
“He has been temporarily relieved of command†she said quietly not introducing herself.
“And you are?†He asked trying to connect with her.
“I am in charge of this facility. How can I be of assistance General?â€
“I was wondering when I could send my SLDF observers into the newly opened areas of this base?†He asked in recent months the Draconis Combine had begun to reopen parts of the base which had been closed since the fall of the original Star League.
“I am afraid you cannot.†She stated flatly offering no explanation.
“May I ask why?†He asked “the Star League Defence Force has a permanent presence on this base and has partly funded its reconstruction.†He pointed out
“Partly†she repeated “not the part that we are working on.â€
“You risk placing a divide between us.†Amis warned
“There has always been a divide between us. Good day, General.†She said dismissing him like a cadet not even bothering to raise from her chair. Amis marched from the office unhappy with what had happened but well aware he could do nothing whatever the DCMS had planned and he could do nothing about it.
Caesar's Palace
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
22nd November 3089
For the last several weeks Aleksandr Ward, along with his many advisers and guardians, had done everything in his power as Caesar of the Marian Hegemony to restore it to power. This had included making peace with the newly formed Lothian League, the Rim Association and with the Magistracy of Canopus. Even with these agreements however the Marian Hegemony was still a shadow of where it had been previously. Looking through the documents he couldn't find anything to further their goals other than the one thing he wished to avoid.
“Still trolling through that data Aleks?†A female voice asked from behind him. It was one of the few female voices that spoke to him using his name now. Rebecca Ward, formerly Rebecca O'Reilly, she was the daughter of Caesar Julius O'Reilly the man Aleksandr's mother Katrina had killed Katrina had adopted her as her own daughter she was the last remnant of the O'Reilly family. With Katrina's death he'd half expected her to retake the O'Reilly name and leave Alphard yet here she was taunting him. “There's no way out of the mess your mother left us in. Only if you bring war to our neighbours will you be successful.†She said continuing to walk behind him in and out of his peripheral vision.
“There are still ways Rebecca we do not have to follow our mother's path of aggression.â€
“Your mother†Rebecca taunted Aleksandr he heard a click behind him.
“You do not want to do this Rebecca†he said trying to connect to her she was eighteen nine years his senior. He knew what she was doing he knew that click.
“Your name has ruined this nation Aleksandr. Your mother has brought the nation built by my grand-father and my father to its knees.†She said he could tell she had her weapon raised and pointed at his head.
“You've never taken a life Rebecca. If you wish to start now that's your choice I won't try to stop you.†He said slowly turning to face her her hands were trembling as she pointed the weapon at him. “You haven't it in you.†He said calmly, more calm than any nine year old should be able to, as he stepped closer to her. Suddenly a shot rang out it passed over his shoulder and impacted the wall behind him stepping closer to her he reached out and grabbed the gun snatching it from her. “We'll rebuild this nation together my sister.†He promised her as a pair of guards entered the room “but for now you need protection from yourself. Take her away†he commanded. The two guards grabbed her and dragged her away Aleksandr turned back to his papers. “I'm going to need your help after all Sister Cassandra†he said quietly stepping into the light from the shadows of the room a single woman dressed in a white robe and carrying a broadsword.
“if you are willing Caesar then we can begin our operations within the day.†'Sister Cassandra' said
“I am willing Sister Cassandra. I authorize you to begin operations.â€
“Thank you Brother Aleksandr, Peace of Blake be with you.†She said slipping back into the shadows of the room. Aleksandr had not wanted to make this deal but his people needed help and this was his only option.
Capellan Offensive
Liao Commonality, Capellan Confederation
28th November 3089
Blaming the Oriente Protectorate for a series of raids on Liao, Styk and Zion the Capellan Confederation launches an assault on the Oriente Protectorate. In three rapid assaults the Capellan Confederation's Seventh Armoured Cavalry, the Fourth Tau Ceti Rangers and Lockhardt's Ironsides capture all three worlds driving the Oriente survivors into the Oriente Protectorate.
In celebration of this “counter-attack†Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao announces the rebirth of the Liao Lancers Brigade that will defend Liao holdings from future incursions. With this the First Liao Lancer Regiment is formed on Zion while the Second is formed on Styk neither is a BattleMech formation instead relying on Infantry, Armour and Battle Armour. Although these units are little more than extended militia units the Chancellor announces that both will gain BattleMech forces in 3090 and further units will be risen in the years to come.
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The end of 3089
Marik-Stewart Raid in Force
New Kyoto, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
9th December 3089
Fighting breaks out along the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth/Isle of Skye border bringing Lyran Commonwealth and Free Worlds League units to blows on several worlds. Spurred by rumours that the Isle of Skye was re-building the Bolson Shipyards around the world the First, Eleventh and Twelfth Atrean Dragoon Regiments all land on the world supported by the FWLS Sentinel, a Venturer-class Light Cruiser). Defending it were the First McCarron's Armoured Cavalry and the Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards regiments.
Within five days of heavy combat three nuclear explosions are registered on the world one in the heart of the worlds's capital city Hirihito killing more than ninety thousand people. On December Twelfth with seemingly no end to the fighting on the world new Commanding-Admiral David Natale orders the SLS Helm, the Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment, of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade, the Seventy-ninth and Eightieth Special Operations Battalions were all deployed to the world.
The Seventy-ninth and Eightieth better known as the 'Devil's Advocates' and the 'Nuclear Family' were sent to the world specifically to begin clear up of the nuclear fallout over Hirihito and to help the people of the city carried enough firepower to defend themselves when units from both the Isle of Skye and Marik-Stewart Commonwealth fire on them. After this the Eridani Light Horse are released from their security positions to conduct offensive operations on both sides of the fight while allowing the Special Operations Battalions continue their work.
First Davion Guards RCT Basecamp
Kesai VI, Bryceland PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
14th December 3089
For ten days the First Davion Guards RCT had battled for its very life on the world of Kesai IV as the Ryuken Ichi, Ni and San Regiments of the DCMS had battered the Federated Suns regiment. Burton Davion had seen allies and friends die at the hands of the DCMS troopers and yet saw no end in sight. The planetary HPG was gone destroyed in a bombing raid Burton's escort WarShip the FSS Draconis March, a Davion Block III-class Destroyer, had been destroyed by the Ryuken regiment's three fighter wings although the WarShip's sacrifice depletes the Combine fighter ranks significantly making them useless for anything more than air superiority and intercept missions.
For nearly eight days the First Davion Guards fight a losing running battle from settlement to settlement trying to avoid bringing the Draconis Combine troops down on any particular settlement. On the 21st December 3089 while passing through a small settlement near the long abandoned remains of SLDF Maintenance Depot *14 Marshal Dayton Duvall the RCT Commander was killed. With Admiral Tabitha Steiner, the RCT's Aerospace Commander, injured the RCT turned to Leftenant-Colonel Burton Davion, as the senior MechWarrior for a command. Burton chose to continue Duvall's strategy of moving from Depot to depot however he made one change.
The First Albion Armour Regiment was a green regiment that had been attached to the RCT since the Varnay Crisis used to independent actions and working in small numbers Burton detached the First Albion along with the Second Royal Guards Battle Armour Regiment to raid the Ryuken lines. Although the two units were inexperienced compared to the other units in the command they proved themselves time and again against the Ryuken unit over the next week of fighting. Unfortunately the units and the Davion Guards RCT ran out of ammunition, supplies and began to succumb to fatigue.
On the 29th December 3089 the RCT reached a hidden Davion Firebase half built into a cliff face. Able to rest and refit the RCT hunkered down for a siege battle.
Fidelis Facility
Mopelia Island, New Earth
Star League Protectorate
20th December 3089
From their facilities on New Earth the Fidelis launch two thirty thousand ton Lebedev Nautical Enterprise designed Anastaska Marko Sea Freighters originally designed on LNE's native Tikonov the Fidelis had made one of their few trips off world to purchase the design. The reason for the Fidelis purchase of the design is unknown since New Earth was not known to have natural gas fields or long range sea based trade routes.
Gilmour MilTech
Talitha, Rousset-Marik Alliance
Former-Free Worlds League
29th December 3089
On the world of Talitha in the Rousset-Marik Alliance Gilmour MilTech begins full production of the SHD-X3 Shadow Hawk LAM. With assistance from Gibson Federated BattleMechs in solving the Shadow Hawk LAM's failed three stage conversion system and after months of extensive testing Gilmour believe the design is ready for combat deployment. Although the Rousset-Marik military forces are the company's primary customer the Rousset-Marik Alliance authorize Gilmour MilTech to sell to anyone beyond the Rousset-Marik Alliance. Immediately the Star League Defence Force, Capellan Confederation, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Oriente Protectorate all take interest in the design.
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So here comes 3090, time to begin another year. As always I welcome any comments and I hope you enjoy.
3090
Snow Raven Assault
Kesai VI, Bryceland PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
4th January 3090
Learning that Burton Davion was threatened and along her border Khan Sterling McKenna, the WarShip Ark Royal, a Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser, and three clusters of Snow Raven warriors traveled to Kesai VI dropping on-top of the Draconis Combine forces. In a week of combat the Snow Ravens drove off the Draconis Combine Ryuken regiments forcing them off world. Khan Sterling McKenna orders that the Federated Suns survivors were to receive full medical support and could keep the equipment they still had however any equipment the Ryuken Regiments or Davion Guards had lost in combat would belong to the Ravens.
After discovering that Kesai VI still had the remains of several SLDF settlements and facilities Sterling McKenna orders the Snow Ravens to maintain their presence on the world officially taking it for Clan Snow Raven despite Burton Davion's protests. Several days later the Snow Ravens reveal what has happened on Kesai VI to the Federated Suns High Command and return the survivors of the First Davion Guards. The Snow Ravens also inform the Federated Suns that Kesai VI is now a Snow Raven holding and that they would be wise not to attempt an assault against it.
Border skirmish
New Kyoto, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
10th January 3090
As the fighting continues on New Kyoto Colonel Angel Bodez commander of the Second McCarron's Armoured Cavalry is killed in combat. Elizabeth McCarron officially takes command of both units effectively merging the First and Second units into a single command. As the Marik-Stewart forces are continuing their resistance to the Isle of Skye defenders and mercenaries and have continued to fire on SLDF forces Commanding-Admiral David Natale officially orders the Eridani Light Horse to support the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry.
Marian Hegemony Expansion
Periphery
14th January 3089
Surprising each of their neighbours Marian Hegemony Leader Aleksandr Ward announces that the Marian Hegemony has expended its holdings to five newly colonized worlds situated between the Marian Hegemony and the Rim Association. The world of Johann, Marius, Julius, Sean and Katrina are each named after a former Caesar of the Marian Hegemony and significantly increase the territory of the much depleted periphery realm.
Each is to be garrisoned by a Battalion of Ward's Hunters to stop anyone being tempted to raiding these new worlds no intelligence agency notices a change in the Marians defences on other worlds indicating newly formed units. No-one realized that the Marians had the resources or the manpower to garrison these worlds.
Naval Testing Grounds
Asteroid Belt, Sol System
Star League Protectorate
19th January 3090
Recently launched from the Titan shipyards around Saturn the second WarShip to bare the name SLS Unity City slowly moved into the Sol System's asteroid belt. Originally launched from the Tamarind Shipyards the vessel a Unity-class Frigate had undergone extensive refit at Titan before being sent to the asteroid belt for testing.
On the bridge Captain Charlie Norton supervised his crew as they moved into the initial testing position the six hundred thousand ton vessel WarShip easily avoiding the larger asteroids and caring little for the smaller pieces of rock. For this test only one system aboard the ship would be tested since aquiring the Unity-class vessel the SLDF scientists had refitted the vessel removing the six AR-10 Multi Purpose Capiral Missile Launchers instead placing a new system.
“Captain we are in position Barracuda Launchers Alpha and Beta armed and loaded†his executive officer Command Carol Moralis reported.
“Understood Commander open all launch doors†he ordered “Lt Ford pick your targets.â€
“Yes sir†the young dark haired officer reported “weapons stood by and ready to fire.†He said moments later.
“Alpha launcher first Lieutenant, fire at will†Norton ordered. From the port side six Barracuda capital missiles launched from the same launcher targeting six different asteroids. two of the six asteroids were struck by the Barracuda fire.
“Mr Ford, I'm going to give you a pass because that was the first salvo however I want better results this time. Ready Beta Launcherâ€
“Standing by on Starboard side Barracuda MCMLS looking for better results this time sir.†Ford said more confidently.
“Fire when ready†Norton ordered moments later the second launcher fired this time six missiles exited the starboard side. Refining the targeting four of the six missiles struck their targets destroying the asteroids creating dozens of smaller shards none that would cause anyone any trouble. “Mr Ford you are getting better at this. Helm move us to position Zulu. Mr Ford final salvo please.†He said as the Unity City moved over into its second firing position over a larger asteroid. The Frigate slowly rolled over presenting its Starboard side with a clear line of sight with the asteroid. “Fire!†Norton ordered Ford activated the firing controls this time the six missiles were targeted on the single asteroid making a large crater deep within the piece of rock. “Analysisâ€
“Sir, all six missiles it target within twenty-nine metres of target coordinates. All missiles have exploded as per standard Barracuda detonation. Approximately total damage equivalent to an light naval autocannon.†Ford replied “not the most effective weapon against a single target but it does give launch options against multiple targets.â€
“Yes it does, send all your data to the analysts Mr Ford. Have the gunnery crews check over their equipment and forward their own findings.†Norton said as the Barracuda MCMLS was still an experimental system it would take some time before it was certified for use in combat.
“You know if they made a version of this weapon with Killer Whales instead of Barracudas this could be a really nasty weapon.†Ford commented on “mix that with some Santa-Anas...†he whispered thinking of mixing the weapon with nuclear weapons.
“Keep dreaming Mr Ford†Norton cautioned “first we'll make the Barracuda version work.â€
Federated Suns Counter-attack
Federated Suns/Draconis Combine border
23rd January 3090
Following the attack on Kesai VI House Davion launch a full assault into the Draconis Combine striking out at the worlds of Igualada, Huan, Thestria, Misery, Elidere IV, Bergman's Planet, New Aberdeen and Harrow's Sun. Led by the Davion Assault Guards and the Robinson Rangers Regiments supported by six mercenary commands and five WarShips the Federated Suns show how seriously they have taken an attack on the heir to the throne. In orbit over Thestria on the 24th January the Davion forces encounter the WarShip DCS Takashi Kurita, an Omi Kurita-class Super-carrier, the vessel and its fighters blunt the first Davion offensive on the world destroying the FSS Lucian Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser. A second strike at the world the world on the 30th January led by the FSS Audacity, a First Prince-class Battleship, supported by the WarShips FSS Latha Paschel, a Congress-class Frigate, and the FSS Stephenson, a Davion III-class Destroyer. Against the three Davion WarShips the DCS Takashi Kurita has no chance however the crew have been ordered by the Coordinator not to retreat. Refusing to give up the vessel charged forward even as its aerospace fighters are being destroyed in swaths by the Davion capital ships ramming the Stephenson destroying both craft.
Following the heavy losses on Thestria the Davion High Command was ready to step back from its offensive however First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion ordered an assault on Matsuida on the 31st January. Joining the battle along with the First New Avalon Guards RCT and the FSS Pegasus Victor Steiner-Davion shows that if the Draconis Combine wishes to hurt the Federated Suns they will have to go through him, despite his connections and respect for the Draconis Combine's society.
Imperial Palace, Imperial City
New Samarkand, District of Midway
Draconis Combine
25th January 3089
With Federated Suns overrunning several of their worlds causing death to countless amounts of Draconis Combine citizens Vincent Kurita had little to celebrate as 3090 began. However as the first month of the new year came to a close a new life brought him some joy. Duchess Tami Kurita, his wife, gave birth to their first child Akira Kurita the healthy baby boy bringing screams of joy to the halls of the Imperial Palace.
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;D Hmmm.... wonder what kind of SLDF facility remains were found by the Snow Ravens? And they defeated the Ryuken! nice update!
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Good to see Davion & Kurita getting back into it, do you know which Mercenary commands are involved on the AFFS side?
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Good to see Davion & Kurita getting back into it, do you know which Mercenary commands are involved on the AFFS side?
Usual Suspects really -
1st New Hessen Irregulars - New Aberdeen
Wild Geese - Elidere IV
Wolf's Dragoons 7th Commando - Misery (supporting Davion Assault Guards)
Lexington Combat Group's 32nd Recon Regiment - Thestria (supporting 1st RobinsonR Rangers)
Illician Lancers 21st Illician Rangers - Matsuida (supporting the 1st New Avalon Guards RCT)
Team Banzai (supporting New Hessen Irregulars New Aberdeen)
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For anyone interested I noticed a major error in my timeline going forward I'm pretty sure I'm okay with the material thus far but it's ground down work going ahead as I've had to edit out a whole chain of events. Hoping to get an update shortly.
Also if anyone's interested I have a 'working' JPG Map that shows the state of the Inner Sphere in 3090. It's too big and too messy to put on the forums but if anyone wants a look I can email it to you as long as your willing to forgive its state. Send me a PM if interested.
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What was the error DC?
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What was the error DC?
I messed up the future of the Carlyle family line quite horrifically it didn't make any sense at all. Unfortunately it led to events that effected the timeline until the 3140s which all had to go. The events will still happen but it all needs fixed.
A proper update now though
Border Skirmish
New Kyoto, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
4th February 3090
Following continued clashes on New Kyoto and the Eridani Light Horses assistance to the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry the Free Worlds League raiders retreat from the system returning it to the worlds defenders. Linked together by combat rumours persist that Elizabeth McCarron is romantically involved with the Eridani Light Horse executive officer however both units refuse to be drawn on answers about their commanders.
Basecamp, First Royal ComGuard Regimental Brigade
Althena's Choice, Taurian Concordat
8th February 3090
After nearly two years in the Taurian Concordat the First Royal ComGuard Regimental Brigade the unit prides itself in having two solid years with the Taurian people defending several worlds from aggressive pirate attacks and helping prepare several worlds from future troubles.
While preparing to return to the Star League Protectorate Royal ComGuard units prepared to lift from the worlds of Althena's Choice, Dicallus and Charleston. On Althena's Choice General Peter McGillaray marshaled his First Royal ComGuard Regiment this deployment had gone well. His unit was blooded in Star League colours but he was proud of their performance on this deployment they had all done very well. Looking down at the exercise yard he watched as the technical staff loaded munitions and spare parts onto a pair of Prime Movers. Once everything was loaded onto the DropShips they would have a seven day burn to the jump point to rendezvous with the JumpShip then on into the Federated Suns where they would meet up with the remains of the Brigade off Dicallus and Charleston. They would also meet up the SLS Truce of Tukayyid, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, which had been assigned to the unit for this mission.
“Sir! Sir!†One of his officers Captain Sebastian Riccardo shouted running towards him “Sir†he repeated “we have incoming signals BattleMechs and Aerospace Fighters unknown markings!†He said stopping in front of the General. Moments later one of the perimetre watch towers exploded as a swarm of Long Range Missiles struck the tower knocking McGillaray off his feet. As the General regained his feet he could see several BattleMechs were approaching the north-west corner of their base each of the Mechs was a Clan design and painted in the dark blue-and-white of Clan Nova Cat.
“They waited until we were loading the regiment!†McGillaray snapped angrily “we're going to kill them all Captain, you understand that?†He asked grabbing the man by the shoulders “we're going to kill them all!†He said as he released Riccardo's a sniper shot rang out moments later a bullet caught General Peter McGillaray by the side of the head. The commander of the First Royal ComGuard Regiment fell to the ground immediately he was dead before he hit the ground. There was a scream but it wasn't from the General instead Sebastian Riccardo was the one looking down at his fallen commander.
Several hours later the attack had been repulsed with the aggressors destroyed or forced to retreat Colonel Jean-Eric Bottas, McGillaray's executive officer, had taken full command of the Brigade. Analysis of the wreckage of the enemy Mechs, Battle Armour and Aerospace forces all pointed to Clan Nova Cat being the perpetrator. Sebastian Riccardo's testimony that McGillaray had ordered them to 'Kill them all' brought great sway with the remains of the regiment.
Bosting off the planet on schedule the First Royal ComGuard Regiment rendezvoused with their JumpShip and instead of turning towards the Federated Suns the unit headed out into the periphery. Using the onboard HPGs aboard their JumpShips the First ComGuard Regimental Brigade met in the periphery ignoring their previous recall orders. Instead Colonel Bottas spoke about McGillaray's final words to make the Nova Cats pay with blood for their attack on Althena's Choice and the pride of the unit, there need to prove themselves. After several days they agreed with a counter attack plan.
LexaTech Industries
Irece, Irece Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
21st February 3090
With Land Air Mech technology returning to the Free Worlds League through Gilmour MilTech the Draconis Combine choose to add additional investment to their own surviving LAM factory on Irece. Damaged by Clan Star Adder during the Clan Invasion the Adders had taken little interest in the factory after they ensured it was disabled and not a threat they had moved on. When Irece had been liberated LexaTech Industries had moved back into the facility fortunately for the company they had been able to repair much of the damage that had been done and had returned to producing the Stinger Land Air Mech. Unfortunately even with the funding from the Combine Government they had still been restricted to constructing only a few operational Mechs a year with much of the assembly restricted to hand construction.
Following a successful ISF/DEST operation on Talitha against Gilmour MilTech the Draconis Combine government had enough information to rejuvenate the LexaTech plant. Buying a larger stake in the company the Combine armed LexaTech with the knowledge taken from Gilmour allowing for upgrades to the factories on Irece to more automation resulting in greater construction capabilities.
By the end of 3090 LexaTech planned to be able to produce upwards of a Company of STG-A10 Stinger LAMs for the DCMS Regular military and additional of the more advanced STG-A11 which features extended-range lasers and double heat sinks for ISF and DEST operations.
Medical facility
Quantico Island, SLDF Command
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
22nd February 3090
At the Star League Defence Force facility on Liberty Colonel Andrea Kincaid gives birth to twins, a boy and a girl, Jeremy Kincaid and Nicola Cameron her first children by Bannister Cameron. The children named in an effort to keep both family lines alive.
Reprisal Strike
Trade Colony, New Aega
Nova Cat's Den
28th February 3090
Looking for revenge for the attack on Althena's Choice the First Royal ComGuard Regimental Brigade supported by the SLS Truce of Tukayyid, the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser assigned to its escort, jump into the New Aega system of the Nova Cat's Den. Unlike other Nova Cat systems New Aega is officially an open system welcoming visitors for trade. When the SLDF JumpShips and their escorting WarShip the Nova Cat defenders did not immediately react it was a fatal mistake. Immediately the Truce of Tukayyid opened fire on the Nova Cat's Future Triumph obliterating the Vincent Mk.42-class Corvette in a single salvo. Turning their Naval Autocannons on several JumpShips the Truce of Tukayyid forced each of the ships to surrender before a single communication is sent.
Once the JumpShips had been neutralized the Star League Defence Force troops traveled in system landing on New Aega they quickly overwhelm the trade post and destroy the Fourth Nova Cat Regulars Cluster seizing the entire trade colony within an hour of landing.
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Double dunt of updates making up for the recent missing ones hope you enjoy
Former Free Worlds League
Oriente Protectorate
14th March 3090
Following a ten times increase in pirate raids against the worlds of the former-Free Worlds League the Oriente Protectorate announces that the worlds of Wisconsin, Yanchep, Kearny and Vikindu would fall under their protection until further notice. The Oriente Protectorate's leader Captain-General Jonas Halas announces the formation of the Fourth Halas Militia and the hiring of the Pandora's Box Mercenary Battalion to protect these worlds.
Border Skirmish
Menkalinan, Independent World
Former Free Worlds League
25th March 3090
Following the successful integration of Berenson into the Rousset-Marik Alliance the Ninth Rousset-Marik Militia attempted to also welcome the world of Menkelinan. Unfortunately other forces appeared to wish for the world to declare loyalties for the Capellan Confederation. Initially the fight is an irregular one with letter campaigns, organized demonstrations and rioting however when open fighting breaks out Federated hired mercenary command The Arcadians. A battle-hardened unit The Arcadian's had officially been sent by Capellan March commander Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek to end the fighting on the world and bring stability to the Federated Suns border unofficially Hasek had made it clear that should the world's population choose to join the Federated Suns mercenaries were authorized to drive the Rousset-Marik forces from the planet. As the unit arrived on planet the Rousset-Marik Militia forces warned them off however they did not engage them Colonel Grieg Parker approached Brigadier Michael Penne, commander of The Arcadians, both sides agreed that it would be up to the population of the world to decide where Menkelinan's future laid The Arcadians commander agreed to keep his mercenaries confined to the capital city and the main spaceport while local militia forces and the Rousset-Marik Militia controlled the rest.
Nova Cat Counter-offensive
New Aega, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
29th March 3090
In response to the First Royal ComGuard Regimental Brigades attack on New Aega Khan Canin Rosse had ordered an immediate response from Nova Cat defences. While the Nova Cat Irregulars Cluster which was on New Aega had been able to put up some resistance they were not enough to stop the SLDF troopers. Stepping clear from the Overlord C-class DropShip Star Colonel Wrecken Rosse commander of the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster scanned the sky from his new OmniMech's cockpit.
This OmniMech was the first in a new line of Nova Cat Medium OmniMechs known as the Wendigo it was based on the Avalanche design captured from the Draconis Combine but this design was built from the ground up with Clan technology. Wrecken Rosse himself wasn't convinced the Nova Cat's needed the design they had the Shadow Cat and the Huntsman which were the stalwarts of their medium force while the Avalanche, now being produced by the Nova Cats, was serving in the garrison units. The Wendigo was surplus to their requirements Wrecken had accepted the “honour†of piloting the first OmniMech produced to appease the Khan but in Wrecken Rosse's opinion it was just another symptom of the Nova Cat's inaction the Clan had sat in slumber for too long they needed to act.
“This is Star Colonel Wrecken Rosse to Star League Defence Force units your decision to attack this world was an error you will not survive. Currently Nova Cat WarShips are engaging your Black Lion and all your JumpShips have been secured by our forces there will be no escape.†He said broadcasting to all units within range. “I call on you to surrender now...†he ordered waiting several moments for a response “so be it. I bring three further Clusters to this battle the Fourth Nova Cat Guards, the 450th Assault Cluster and the Nova Cat Dragoons each of them will face you in battle.†He said moving the Wendigo several steps forwards clearing the way for the others of his Cluster to exit the DropShip. All around Nova Cat DropShips were slowly descending through the air Wrecken Ross had been ordered by Khan Rosse to keep the Star League troops honest but not to assault them directly. He didn't completely agree with Khan Rosse's decision to leave the SLDF troops active on a Nova Cat world but orders were orders.
Even as the Nova Cats were leaving their DropShips long range weapons fire filled the air very few of the shots were actually striking Nova Cat units or DropShips but the First RCG Brigade was making it clear what they thought of the Nova Cat reinforcements.
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Grand Council Meeting
City of Andre, Tukayyid
Clan Territory
5th April 3090
Entering the room Khan of Clan Coyote Carl Heller stepped passed the lower caste announcer immediately the man dressed all in black “Khan of Clan Coyote Carl Heller†he said immediately the eyes of the other Khans transfixed on him Heller did his best not to smile. Khan Nathan Fetladral nodded towards him the Wolf Khan had kept the Coyote's secret – their survival. Now a year later the Coyotes were established on five Wolf worlds including their capital Weingarten of the Clans the Ghost Bear Khan, Bjorn Jorgensson, and the Hell's Horses Khan, James Cobb, looked most surprised at the announcement of Clan Coyote. Heller knew that Khan Fetladral had informed the Sea Fox Khan of the Coyote's survival so the lack of surprise on Hanna Coston's face was not a surprised. Khan Diane Pryde of the Jade Falcons was trying to look uninterested but Heller could tell she was furious which alone made today a good day. Meanwhile the Snow Raven Khan made a far better show of their disinterest, which was nothing new for the Clan which had always kept themselves separate from the others, the Nova Cat Khan meanwhile looked distracted no doubt due too the fighting currently continuing on New Aega. The Nova Cats and Coyotes had little dealings with over the years, more so since the Nova Cat's occupation of the Tortuga Dominions, the Coyote's new place in the Inner Sphere likely meant little to the Nova Cats either way.
“Now that we are all here please be seated.†Khan Hanna Coston their host said as each of the Khans sat she raised her arms “welcome to the City of Andrey, named for our Founder's brother, and to these chambers. There is a place for each of you here and for future Clans should we seek to restore Nicholas Kerensky's dream.†She explained
“That dream was for an ilClan, I do not see a new ilKhan nor one Clan leading all others.†Diana Pryde pointed out.
“The dream was for a unified Clan society. We have lost this with the loss of Strana Mechty and of the Council Chambers there.â€
“We have not lost Strana Mechty...!†James Cobb snapped angrily a Galaxy of Hell's Horses troops were unaccounted for in the Homeworlds as were a Galaxy of Jade Falcons.
“Does any Clan here hold territory there?†Diane Pryde asked quietly “the Homeworlds are lost to us.†She said dryly typing several of the buttons on the table in front of her “this video was recorded by the last Jade Falcon BattleMech to leave Ironhold six months ago.†She said the screen showed the external view from a BattleMech cockpit under heavy fire from multiple directions against the Mech there was images of Steel Viper, Star Adder and Cloud Cobra BattleMech each working together to hem in the Jade Falcons. A Turkina OmniMech exploded a couple of hundred metres away from the DropShip as it backed away from several enemy Mechs. “We have moved to the Inner Sphere, we have left the past behind us, this is our future.†She said looking around “Hanna Coston I applaud your Clan's efforts.â€
“It is the efforts of all our Clans that is important†Carl Heller said “it is important to the survival of our Founders dream and of our own.â€
“An interesting thing to say for a Clan we thought was dead.†Bjorn Jorgensson said
“Aff†Carl Heller said “my Clan has gone through many changes.â€
“And it will go through many more†Canin Rosse said “we are the Clans. This room, this place, feels like it is part of our Clans and part of the Founder's vision.â€
“Each of your Clans are invited to send civilians, traders and scientists to this world.†Hanna Coston said “a new Ebon Guard will be formed at a full Galaxy in strength. Again I invite each of you to send warriors to test into its ranks. The Ebon Guard will defend this world from external attack, internal fighting that threatens the safety of this world or its people and the Disease Research Facility our Clans have already constructed here.â€
“Who will rule this world when we are not here? Each of us has our own territory to be concerned with we cannot be expected to rule this world independently of our own people.†Canin Rosse pointed out, it wouldn't even be possible for them to rule the world one at a time since the travel distance between Tukayyid and all the Clan realms varied greatly.
“A new Clan Loremaster will need to be elected they will oversee the administration of Tukayyid and command over the Ebon Guard.†Hana Coston said.
“I nominate Clan Jade Falcon Loremaster Bryan Pryde†Diana Pryde immediately said without a thought. For several moments she waited for a second however there was not one.
“Khan Pryde, none of us will support another Jade Falcon Loremaster the shadow of Kael Pershaw is still too great†Khan Nathan Fetladral explained.
“I nominate the Hell's Horses Loremaster Chin Cooper for this position.†Carl Heller said
“I will second it†Nathan Fetladral said. Around the table the other Khans each agreed with the nomination none were all that interested in having one of their own administering Tukayyid, the world had too many memories for most of the Clans, perhaps in time the place would have more to offer the Clans.
Peace Negotiation
Nova Cat Embassy, Avalon City
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th April 3090
With the fighting on New Aega Clan Nova Cat had increased its defences around its embassy in New Avalon with Elementals in full Battle Armour standing on guard at all entrance points. It had been reported that at their base on the New Scotland continent the Nova Cats had deployed OmniMechs to defend their firebase.
The SLDF diplomatic car drove up to the gates an SLDF flag on one side of the car while a white flag of non-agression flew on the other side. The Elementals stepped to one side allowing the car entry. After the car had passed the main gates closed again ceiling the Nova Cat enclave off. The car stopped in front of the embassy's main doors and its drivers, dressed in all black suits stepped out under the watchful gaze of yet more armoured Elementals. From the rear of the car stepped an oriental woman dressed in a gold lined cream dress her dark hair tied up showing off her beautiful skin. She moved slowly up the steps into the main embassy with the two drivers behind her as escort. Both Elementals stepped aside to allow her entry inside she was met by a man and a woman both wearing the Clan Nova Cat dress uniform, a black jumpsuit with pattered leather shoulder pads. “Welcome Duchess Allard-Liao†the male said welcoming her “I am Star Colonel Grayson of Clan Nova Cat, this is Star Commander Sonja, we will be representing Clan Nova Cat.â€
“Thank you for the welcome, If I may ask what is the reason for the armoured Elementals? Our belief was that the Federated Suns and Clan Nova Cat had a peaceful relationship.†She left out that the Federated Suns had explicitly requested that the Nova Cats did not have BattleMechs and Elementals within Avalon City, something the Nova Cats had recently chosen to ignore three times.
“You can never be too safe†Sonja replied.
“We should go this way†Grayson said stepping into a side room Vanessa followed closely with Sonja entering the room last. Vanessa's two guards took up positions at the doors as the two Nova Cats and Vanessa took their seats.
“I have been asked by the Star League Defence Force High Command as an independent intermediary to negotiate the safe release of the First Royal ComGuard Brigade from your custody†Vanessa began.
“We have no idea what you are on about†Sonja replied defensively.
“The First Royal ComGuards Brigade were the unit that attacked your colony world of New Aega after Nova Cat forces raided Althea's Choice.
“We raided!†Sonja shouted angrily “we did nothing of the sort! We do not need to listen to Inner Sphere lies.†She said turning to head for the door.
“Sonja, sit down and be quiet.†Grayson said firmly although he was superior in rank to her there seemed to be something else between them. Sonja appeared to be younger than Grayson but both were warriors battle hardened through life in the Nova Cat Clan so their ages were hard for Vanessa to gauge but she guessed they were both in their mid-twenties. “Duchess, Clan Nova Cat has no knowledge of any attack on any territory outside of those we have claimed as our own.â€
“Then how do you explain the attack on Althea's Choice?†Vanessa asked interrupting “they wore Nova Cat uniforms and had Clan BattleMechs and Vehicles.â€
“That is beyond our power to answer†Grayson admitted “as for the Royal ComGuard Brigade neither they or the SLS Truce of Tukayyid are in our possession. Both have so far resisted and avoided out capture.â€
“Then would we be able to negotiate for their safe passage off New Aega, with our greatest apology?â€
“Neg†Sonja answered “if they wish to leave they still have their DropShips and their have their weapons they can fight their way free.â€
“We do not wish to antagonize your Clan further.†Vanessa said
“Unfortunately that has already occurred†Sonja said bluntly raising from her chair a second time walking froom the room. This time Grayson did not try to stop her.
“How can we end this peacefully?†Vanessa asked
“Duchess, I do not believe that this is a time for peace. Our Clansmen feel our Clan has been in slumber too long. To survive we must expand, we must fight like true Clansmen. I do not believe my father agrees with this but there may be little that even he can do to stop this now. The First RCG Brigade will have to keep themselves alive for now.â€
“But the SLDF do not wish to continue this fight. It was a rash decision by a unit angry that they had been ambushed on Althea's Choice.†Vanessa stressed Grayson nodded his agreement understanding her.
“In the same position I could see a Nova Cat unit making similar choices unfortunately this is currently what we are left with your unit will remain on New Aega until they can fight their way clear of that world. After this meeting we will be closing this embassy and moving to our New Scotland Firebase.â€
“You are cutting off diplomatic relations?â€
“Neg, we are moving to more appropriate surroundings. From this meeting forward Duchess Vanessa†he said dropping her surnames as he raised to his feet “you will be negotiating with a Clan which is at a state of war.†He said moving towards the door “I am sorry we could not have spoken longer.†He added glancing back to her.
“As am I Galaxy Commander, I am sorry this did not go better.†She said moving towards the doors “I hope that this course of action is not the undoing of your Clan. Then without further words Vanessa Allard-Liao made her way from the embassy returning to her vehicle. Soon after she had left the Nova Cats completely abandoned the embassy and its grounds locking down the facility so others could not access the compound and its buildings without destroying it. Travelling across New Avalon they retreated within their firebase without further words to the local AFFS Garrison.
Nuclear Incident
Menkalinan, Independent World
Former-Free Worlds League
22nd April 3090
The tense truce on Menkalinan between the Ninth Rousset-Marik Militia, The Arcadians Mercenary Regiment and the local militia forces is shattered by the detonation of a nuclear weapon which wipes out the planetary governor, most of the ruling council, the entire planetary militia forces and sixteen thousand civilians. The detonation confuses everyone on the world the Rousset-Marik Militia commander Colonel Sherlock Bainz declares the world for the Rousset-Marik Alliance however The Arcadians disagree stating that recent communications between the local government and the mercenaries had indicated they would prefer to join the Federated Suns. Fighting breaks out between Arcadian infantry and infantry of the Rousset-Marik Militia as the two sides try to help the local population counter the devastation caused by the nuclear detonation.
Taurian Reinforcements
New Aega, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
28th April 3090
On the orders of Baron Cham Kithrong the Taurian Nomads and the Taurian Renegades Regiments launch an assault against New Aega in support of SLDF operations. Arriving at a pirate point identified by SLDF Intelligence the Taurian's Star Lord-class JumpShip attempts to avoid Nova Cat WarShips. Although the JumpShip is successful in delivering the DropShips and escaping without damage the Taurian DropShips are immediately attacked by Nova Cat aerospace fighters as they enter the atmosphere. A Taurian Intruder-class DropShip is hit by weapons fire and loses control during re-entry the three thousand ton spheroid disintegrates over the New Aega skies as the ship is lost with all hands. The remaining DropShips make landings near the occupied trade colony and quickly move to join the SLDF troops who have dug in around the Nova Cat facility.
With Khan Canin Rosse out of the Nova Cat's Den on Tukayyid saKhan Michael Drummond takes personal command of the Nova Cat forces on New Aega. Landing with his Vision Keshik he orders the Nova Cats to cease going easy on the SLDF troops seeing the Taurian reinforcements as a direct indication that the SLDF force had established an invasion beachhead. Intending on pushing the invaders from their foothold the Nova Cat clusters on planet increase their attacks on the 1st RCG Brigade and their Taurian allies.
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Without delay we reach May, hope you enjoy what happens... small note I didn't write all this myself James Tanaga assisted greatly with the direction the Fire Mandrills are heading - I originally had written them off but they now have a place due to the efforts made.
Planetary Conflict
Menkalinan, Independent World
Former Free Worlds League
4th May 3090
With the fighting between The Arcadians and the Ninth Rousset-Marik Militia on Menkalinan getting out of control Colonel Carmen Lakewood, commander of the Fifth Royal Battle Armour Corps on New Canton, orders the deployment of the the Thirtieth, Thirty-First and Thirty-Second Royal Battle Armour Battalions as a peacekeeping force. Formed as the Third Royal Battle Armour Regiment under the command of Colonel Karen Middleton the unit is ordered ensure fighting does not continue within urban areas and to assist with clean up operations of the recent nuclear detonation on the world.
Making a quick jump from New Canton to a pirate point within the Menkalinan system The Thirty-second Royal Battle Armour Battalion of the Third Royal lands in public view of the population and of the two fighting units. Announced as a peacekeeping force Major Nicola Wittburn, commander of the Thirty-Second Royal Battle Armour Battalion, she calls on the units fighting over the city to fall back. Two days later as fighting continues all over the planet and in urban areas Colonel Karen Middleton lands her remaining two Battalions in the rear areas of the Rousset-Marik Militia and The Arcadians. The two Battle Armour Battalions disrupt both sides attack forces causing them both to fall back. Colonel Middleton informs both sides that should they continue to conduct combat operations then they would be considered hostile to the SLDF. Both sides agree to a cease fire that would allow the planet's population to recover from the nuclear detonation and the fighting.
On the 19th May following an extended cease fire the interim planetary government announces they would be seeking membership in the Star League Protectorate and that they would be calling for a permanent SLDF garrison. Colonel Karen Middleton announces that the Third Royal Battle Armour Regiment will stand by the government's decision and fight off any threat to these wishes, be they foreign or domestic. She gives both the Ninth Rousset-Marik Militia and The Arcadians Regiments until the end of May to remove their troops and equipment from the planet.
Invasion of All Dawn
Rim Collection
Periphery
8th May 3090
Star Colonel Aemelia patiently sat in her Great Wyrm, anticipating the coming battle. For the last two weeks, the Sea Fox traders had gathered the needed Intel on All Dawn’s defenses while she planned the upcoming operation. Her selection as mission commander by Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday was a shock to her Fire Mandrill brethren, though not to her. It made sense, she thought, for she was the lone member of the Mandrills to have participated in the Clan Invasion of the Inner Sphere decades earlier as a member of Clan Smoke Jaguar.
That last thought brought a grimace to her face. Nearly thirty years ago, she was left behind on a planet and forced to survive on her own when the Smoke Jaguars retreated from the Inner Sphere. For two years, she survived on her own, with just her Great Wyrm for company as she kept away from the population centers and the Inner Sphere mercenaries guarding them. Then, wanting to return to Clan Space, she undertook Trials of Possessions to return to Clan Space, eventually returning with one of the reborn SLDF units. Once home she finally accepted what she had refused until then to accept. Clan Smoke Jaguar was indeed dead. While she readied herself to commit seppuku, she was found by members of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga who had heard of her escape from the Inner Sphere and had come looking for her. That day, she became a reluctant Fire Mandrill warrior.
For the last twenty-five years, Aemelia long kept to herself. Many within Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga were confused by her refusal many a time to compete for a bloodname. She knew the truth though. She was an utter failure of a Smoke Jaguar and should have died in the Inner Sphere, should have kept fighting even when it was only her and her BattleMech remaining. Her survival, a betrayal of everything her former clan stood for, only heightened that belief. In surkei, she had refused a blood legacy refused to allow her genes to be used to birth future traitors into the Clan's ranks. She was thrown out of her thoughts. “One minute to landing. Repeat: One minute to landing,†a voice called out in her earphones.
“Aff,†the old warrior answered back. Switching channels, she spoke. “One minute to landing. Are you monkeys ready?†As the warriors in her supernova answered back, some with some rather colorful epithets, she couldn’t help but smirk. Calling a Fire Mandrill a monkey was suicide to those outside the clan the members of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga had long grown used to her humor though and seemed to thrive on her words. That didn’t mean she was not looking at a few Trials of Grievances when this battle was over. Alone in the BattleMech's cockpit she allowed herself a small feral smile the Jaguar spirit still burned within her. When the monkeys figure out she did this on purpose just for the Trials of Grievances, she knew she was going to pay for it. Now, though, she couldn’t care less.
“We still going with this dezgra plan of yours Jaguar,†asked one of her nova mates.
“Aff,†she answered back, not the least put out by that nickname many have for her. “It is the only way to minimize casualties, on both sides.†She knew full well her mission. Her forces were charged with the capture of the planet’s spaceport and its HPG station and the SLDF personnel with as few casualties as possible. Though the HPG was operated by the SLDF Department of Communications, a mercenary crew of fourteen medium and heavy BattleMechs called Kirk’s Devil Dogs was contracted with protecting it. Unfortunately, that meant they too were technically SLDF personnel and had to be treated as such. For that reason, she had been given strict orders to minimize their casualties if at all possible.
As she felt the DropShip land, she spoke into her radio. “Alright monkeys. Remember. No killing the Sea Foxes they are as close to an ally as we may have in this region." If allies were even possible after the troubles in the Homeworlds. "And try not to kill the dezgra mercenaries.†She said nearly as an afterthought, she could see in her scopes the DropShip doors opening slowly, she led her warriors out.
On the tarmac, she could see two mercenary Mechs, a Panther and a Phoenix Hawk, standing at attention besides a car with military flags and black utility vehicles. Zooming in on the car, she could see two Sea Fox merchants and a pair of Elementals in Battle Armour beside a man that, if she remembered correctly, was Governor Von Hauss. Zooming out, she saw roughly twenty men and women standing in front of him in two signal file lines and some personnel manning some sort of communication instruments. Must be members of All Dawn’s militia forces, she thought.
At this, her feral smile broadened. The Sex Fox Star Captain had ensured her that he and his senior merchant had managed to trick this Governor Von Hauss into thinking a Sea Fox Khanate wanted to establish an enclave on the planet. She was skeptical of the merchant clansmen, but seeing was believing, she knew that Loremaster Faraday had promised the Sea Foxes access to any and all Rim Worlds caches the Kindraa discovered in the region from now and for the next fifty years hardly a partly price.
As she stopped her Great Wyrm about a hundred meters away from the two Mercenary Mechs, she aimed her full complement of weapons at the Phoenix Hawk. Just as the governor stepped into a full salute, she fired a full alpha strike of lasers and pulse lasers at the Mech in a surprise attack. Everything within her screamed at this attacking being wrong but it had to be this way together with the Mechs in her supernova, she quickly crippled both old Mechs. As both Mechs fell, she looked towards the ground and could see her Elementals marching in around the Governor and his honor guard no-one was fighting which pleased her the plan had worked. Looking more closely she saw the two Clan Sea Fox Elementals stood their weapons raised at the Governor and his aides the Sea Foxes had done their part too.
“Get them lined up on the ground. Star Commander Brian, assign a point to watch over them. Quiaff?†Not waiting for an acknowledgment, she switched frequencies. “The stravag governor is in custody. Specialist Trinaries commence phase two.†Looking at the ground, she could see the Sea Fox star captain give her a thumb’s up, signifying his personnel now controlled the air tower. One less obstacle to worry about, she thought.
She quickly led her supernova into the city while the Third Battle Cluster landed. She and her warriors were heading to the primary base the mercenaries used when a voice called on her speakers. “Tau Echo Two here. The base is under our control. HPG secured.â€
That was fast, she thought. “Tau Echo Two confirm the last.â€
“We captured the base with no casualties. Eight Mechs, repeat eight Mechs are out of the fight. Also captured are techs and most of the pilots. Be advised, techs report they are not, repeat not, part of the mercenary force. All SLDF personnel have put up no resistance.â€
“Roger. Sending Beta Nova over to you.†After sending Beta Nova to strengthen the star of Elementals, she switched over to the radio frequency used by the mercenaries. “Attention remaining mercenary elements. This is Star Colonel Aemelia of Clan Fire Mandrill. Governor Von Hauss has been captured, as have most of your comrades and the HPG. Surrender now or be destroyed. This is your only warning.†She didn’t have to wait long, for the remaining four Mechs were already under heavy fire from a trinary of Fire Mandrill aerospace forces.
With their beachhead established the rest of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga began their landings Loremaster Cassandra Faraday continued to defer to Aemelia's command of the invasion allowing her to direct the conquest. It took the warriors of Faraday-Tanaga another two weeks to put down all the resistance on the world however as the Clansmen allowed the locals to continue their own lives mostly unmolested the people of All Dawn accepted their presence. At the Nadir and Zenith points the Kindraa's WarShips interdicted any Civilian trade JumpShips further increasing the Kindraa's pool of transport vessels while keeping the Fire Mandrill presence a secret.
With this concealed presence the Fire Mandrills were able to land their civilians onto the world of All Dawn occupying one of the old abandoned Rim Worlds Republic settlements. The buildings were hardly perfect but they were a true second start for the people of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga. Crucially they also kept the Clan population separate from the local population preserving both cultures. Standing in what was now her new office and home Loremaster Cassandra Faraday wondered how her people would maintain their culture so far from the worlds they were born she did not know where next to go but she was determined to make it happen.
Negotiations, St Ives Compact Embassy
Avalon City, Crucis March
Federated Suns
14th May 3090
The Embassy of the St Ives Compact was not used as often today as it once was during the time of Vanessa Allard-Liao's grandparents the Embassy was like a home away from home for the St Ives's leaders. During her father's time the Embassy had been used occasionally but had mainly been maintained by the diplomatic staff today and for the last two months it had been like another home for Duchess Vanessa Allard-Liao.
Today the Embassy played host to a foreign visitor for the first time in years the Embassy was being used for an official function with the visit of Star Colonel Grayson Nova Cat. Officially they were meeting to try and resolve the issues between the Nova Cats, the SLDF and the Taurian Concordat instead they'd ended up speaking more about each other. Vanessa had convinced herself that the more she knew about the Nova Cats the better she would be able to resolve the conflict. “So you're a freeborn warrior?†She asked reaching for her glass of St Ives Royal Wine she had imported for the Embassy she was surprised a freeborn had been given such a position on New Avalon.
“Aff†he answered trying to ignore her contraction as he studied his own glass of wine. It was a strange tasting drink but as his Khan, his father, had instructed him before this assignment he was sampling Inner Sphere society.
“Is it not strange for a freeborn to raise to such a rank and a position in the Clan world.â€
“The 'Clan World'†Grayson repeated amused at the terminology. “In some Clans freeborn warriors have no limits on their rank. It is the warriors capability that determines where and how high they can raise. Since the Clan's return to the Inner Sphere such practice has become far more common.†He said thinking of Phelan Kell nee Ward, Diana Pryde and Ragnar Magnesson as prime examples each was a freeborn that had risen to leadership positions within different Clans through various means. Grayson hoped that some day he would raise to such a position, but first he needed to win a bloodname, unfortunately so far the Clan Council had so far refused either him or his sister Sonja a Trial of Bloodright although they had not forbidden them either. “I also had more motivation than many to succeed.†He explained
“How so?†She asked moving her finger around the rim of her glass.
“My father is an important warrior, my mother is part warrior, part explorer and part administrator...â€
“Sounds like quite a woman†Vanessa admitted.
“She is†Grayson admitted he wondered if Vanessa knew his heritage, he wondered if many within the Federated Suns knew. Grayson's mother was Yvonne sister to Victor Steiner-Davion First Prince of the Federated Suns he knew in some circles of Inner Sphere society that would make him a challenger, or a threat, to Prince Burton Davion for the right to lead the Federated Suns. It was something the Watch had cautioned both he and Sonja on before they came to the Federated Suns and something he was keenly aware of, even tonight, he represented his Clan at all times.
“So is it true that...†she said pausing wrinkling her nose slightly as she thought for the words “that Clan warriors care nothing for relationships or love just combat?†She asked glancing away Grayson laughed immediately covering his own thoughts before noticing she looked annoyed at his response.
“I apologies†he said reaching over to touch her hand before pulling his hand away “I am a product of one of those relationships†he explained “my father despite his position within our Clan loves my mother. Everyone knows that within the Nova Cats†he said, he left out that few outside the Nova Cats were aware of Canin Rosse and Yvonne's true relationship or at least they didn't flaunt it. “I know about these things, I feel those emotions, just like any other man.â€
“Perhaps we should move to one of the study rooms, they are more comfortable?†She suggested raising Grayson rose instantly from his chair immediately ready to move. “Relax Star Colonel the enemy Cluster is resting at the moment†she said laughing Grayson joined her in what he assumed was a polite laugh. He had left out that although he understood what love was he had little experience with it.
Vanessa quickly led him to the study area it was an extravagant waste in Grayson's opinion with wooden paneling along the walls, thick curtains, several book cases packed with paper books that had likely never been read a roaring fire provided all the light for the room while a single brown leather sofa sat in the middle of a deep green carpet. Either side of the sofa was a glass table no doubt for the books that whoever was “studying†in the room. “Impressive†he lied glancing around the room.
“I always thought it was an underused waste, when I was a child I suggested to my father that he should tear it all out and replace it with a Mech simulator.†She said sitting down on the sofa pulling her legs up under her.
“Kai Allard-Liao hardly needed a simulator his exploits in the cockpit were well known throughout his life.†He said glancing around the room seeing only the entrance they had come in.
“I didn't want them for him, I wanted it for me.†She said smirking he could see the look in her eyes that what she had said was truthful.
“And what do you pilot?†He said trying to keep this meeting focused on business.
“I have piloted many BattleMechs in my time†she said “my father's Centurion once or twice when I was younger but primarily I have used a Men Shen OmniMech.â€
“A Capellan design†Grayson pointed out placing his glass down on a table the wine was too sweet for his tastes.
“And what of it?†Vanessa demanded placing her glass on the table beside her “a Mech is a Mech†she said grasping Grayson's hands with her own “in the hands of the right warrior it is a killing tool like no other man has ever created.†She said continuing to hold his hands
“Hands can also be used for building†Grayson said turning his own so his fingers matched hers “and many other things†he said looking straight into her eyes.
“Many other things†she repeated together they reached forwards with their hands, their bodies and hearts each grasping at the other for companionship and company. Together in the room they were undisturbed by anyone else within the Embassy although most must have known what they were doing. Their bodies interlocked in love and lust they slept on the sofa not moving as the flames of the fire died out their bodies spent.
In the morning their professional hats returned no agreement had been made regarding the fighting on New Aega but a connection that was not there before had been made. Grayson bid Vanessa a polite goodbye before returning to the Nova Cat base on the New Scotland continent leaving the St Ives Duchess to her own thoughts.
State Expansion
Former Free Worlds League
19th May 3090
Since the break-up of the united Free Worlds League a small corridor of nine independent planets had existed between the Rousset-Marik Alliance, The Oriente Protectorate and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. These worlds had been in no mans land within none of the three states staking a claim on them and the worlds befitting from the increase trade from the nations around them. This arrangement was shattered by the Rousset-Marik Alliance moving onto Bernardo, Ibstock and Holt. Officially this is due to increased amounts of Capellan raiding on those three worlds in recent weeks, raiding that neither The Oriente Protectorate or Marik-Stewart Commonwealth had seen any evidence.
In an effort to maintain border security The Oriente Protectorate moved troops onto the worlds of Ling, Gomelsa, Sorunda and Lungdo. While the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth moved to secure Asellus Borealis and Asellus Australis again in the name of border security. Because all of these worlds had enjoyed trade and defence from each of their surrounding nations on several of them there was economic, social and defence changes causing severe friction with their new owners. On the worlds of Holt and Sorunda especially so bad were the riots and problems that the Rousset-Marik Alliance and The Oriente Protectorate were forced to declare martial law on both worlds to put down the riots with military troops. Word of these crackdowns leaked back to the other nations of the former-Free Worlds League leading to several military operations being launched between the former Free Worlds League states although none become full blown incidents the raised tensions in the area do not go unnoticed by the neighbours of the Free Worlds League.
Dominion Terminal One
Rasalhague, Rasalhague District
Rasalhague Dominion
26th May 3090
Recently returned to the Rasalhague Dominion capital from Tukayyid Khan Bjorn Jorgensson was even more focused on getting back to Rasalhague Dominion based achievements the Sea Fox Clan could be pleased with their endeavors but so were the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion. In an effort to build up his nation's sense of achievement Khan Bjorn Jorgensson called a Clan Council onboard the Ghost Bears most recent addition a Dominion Terminal space station based at the Nadir Point of the Rasalhague system. At 1.75 million tons the Terminal was on the large scale of space stations produced by anyone covered in thick armour with multiple weapons the station was an important part of the system's defence however it also served as a way point and repair facility for cargo DropShips and a recharge station for WarShips and JumpShips.
“This station is the future of the Rasalhague Dominion†Bjorn Jorgensson explained standing on one of the ten massive gravity decks that ringed the station “with them we will be able to defend our systems without the need for having WarShips in each system. The first and in most cases battles in a system will be on board one of these stations.â€
“Even given the firepower of this station it cannot hold off a dedicated assault force.†One called out.
“Neg it cannot, but it can delay an invasion force long enough for defenders to react instead of our civilians paying for the cost of invasion.†He rebutted.
“Until one is lost then we will all have to pay the cost†another said
“Only a dedicated assault or nuclear weapons would destroy one of these stations. Even the Draconis Combine are not stupid enough to employ nuclear weapons against us.†Jorgensson pointed out becoming annoyed at the Council's obvious opposition. “These stations will not just be places of defence. With their energy banks these stations can facilitate rapid movements of our JumpShips and WarShips, if you will imagine these stations could form a visible spine of our nation, rapid movement of ships and trade can only bring economic benefits.†He said few could argue with that the idea of moving supplies from one side of the Rasalhague Dominion to the other in days instead of weeks using single JumpShips as transport instead of multiple vessels was not something many could ignore.
“Constructing these stations means that our JumpShip, WarShip and ground force production will fall.†Ragnar Magnesson the saKhan pointed out loudly, a lot louder than he needed to than just for the Khan to hear, Jorgensson allowed him to continue “however I believe it is something that we Ghost Bears can endure. Our Clan is proud of our commitments to each other, our feeling of family, these stations will defend our Clan, they will support our Clan and they will bring our Clan closer together. I cannot see any reason why anyone would oppose them.†He said allowing his points to sink in before speaking again “I will also answer all Trials of Refusal regarding plans of their deployment – Personally.†Everyone knew of Ragnar's capabilities in a Mech cockpit there were no further complaints as the saKhan retook his seat.
“Our next station will be constructed in the Radlje system†Bjorn Jorgensson announced “Dominion Terminal Two will be online by mid 3094. From there we will move to Predlitz and so on until our nation is linked Rasalhague to Orestes, our nation will be one.†Despite the Ghost Bear Khan's predictions and deep seated belief in the project following the meeting the Ghost Bear Labourer castes confirmed they expected the project of uniting the District Capitals of the Rasalhague Dominion to take 40-50 years assuming the project continues without delays or conflict problems.
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Alot going on in the Olde Free Worlds. Happy birthday DC!
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Alot going on in the Olde Free Worlds. Happy birthday DC!
Always things happening and LOTS more to come from that corner
Thanks Takiro
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Damn, I missed your birthday?! I'm sorry bud. Happy belated!
Good update, nice to see the Fire Mandrills doing something productive.
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Damn, I missed your birthday?! I'm sorry bud. Happy belated!
Good update, nice to see the Fire Mandrills doing something productive.
Thanks it didn't hurt too much ;D
The Dominion Terminal
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/dominion-terminal/msg34588/#msg34588 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/dominion-terminal/msg34588/#msg34588)
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Nova Cat Fire-base
New Scotland, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th June 3090
Deep within the Nova Cat Fire-base on New Avalon Star Colonel Grayson looked over reports sent from the Nova Cat Watch that pointed to a build up of SLDF units within the Federated Suns. The remains of the Second Star League Defence Force Division, composed of the Fourth Sirian Regimental Brigade, Second Sirian Regimental Brigade and the Third Sirian Regimental Brigade had all been assigned to forward positions as had three SLDF WarShips. These assignments made perfect sense as the Royal ComGuard Regimental Brigade belonged to the Second Division. None were within striking range of the Nova Cat's Den however the build up was worrying.
The doors opened and Star Commander Sonja entered “Star Colonel†she said approaching the planning table saluting.
“Star Commander†he replied equally as formally. Her visit was obviously a professional one instead of his sister.
“Sir, I have been reassigned to New Barcella†she said he nodded he had seen her newest orders. “I wished to know if you needed anything further from me before I left?â€
“Neg, Star Commander, I have everything in hand.â€
“I wished to confirm that we knew where we stood with our negotiating position, Quiaff?†She asked pushing him.
“Aff, there is nothing between us and our negotiators. We are an innocent party in this situation however if they attempt to push us Clan Nova Cat will retaliate with its full force.†He said grimly Clan Nova Cat was willing, if required, to engage in a full conflict with the SLDF and beyond.
“I wished to make sure there was not something between you and their primary negotiator.†Sonja said pushing again Grayson looked directly up towards her.
“Nothing more than what is professionally required†he said calmly he was sure she knew of his visit to the St Ives Compact Embassy and of his meeting with Duchess Vanessa Allard-Liao.
“Very good†Sonja replied “by you leave? Sir†she said coming back to attention she said saluting again.
“Granted†Grayson said saluting Sonja in return his sister nodded before moving out of the room.
Star League Advisory Council Meeting
Terran System, Terra
Star League Protectorate
14th June 3090
Following extended negotiations between the Star League Advisory Council and Clan Sea Fox it is agreed for Clan Sea Fox to provide the Star League Defence Force with two hundred Pelican Landing Craft each to be constructed and delivered by Clan Sea Fox. It is also brought to Clan Sea Fox's attention that the Intrepid-class Troop Cruiser being repaired by Clan Sea Fox in the Terran system required moving due to additional civilian and military traffic in the area. With SLDF assistance the Sea Foxes move the still crippled Intrepid-class vessel from outside Terran orbit to an location near the gas giant Neptune.
Eighteenth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
20th June 3090
Over the course of two days the Eighteenth Star League Games are played out on Solaris VII. During the Games unknown MechWarrior Renate Richter piloting an experimental design known as the YGG-4X Yggdrasil. The design weighing in at one hundred tons features hardened armour, Triple Strength Myomers and Clan designed Mech Talons in a series of attacks Renate Richter stuns her opponents to win each of her matches without anyone else coming close.
Peace Negotiations
Misery, Draconis March
Federated Suns
22nd June 3090
In talks held by the SLDF on Misery the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine negotiate a peaceful outcome to their ongoing conflict. On that world that was so important to the outcome of the Fourth Succession War now helped end another conflict. The Federated Suns agreed to retreat from the worlds of Royal, Capra, Kaznejoy and Marlowe's Rift however they retain control of all worlds they had captured during the recent conflict. The Draconis Combine complains that the SLDF favours the Federated Suns as First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion is the current First Lord. They stay short of filing an official complaint with the SLDF.
Third St Ives/Capellan Confederation War
Capellan Offensive St Ives Compact
28th June 3090
In a surprise blitzkrieg the Capellan Confederation assaults the St Ives Compact starting the Third St Ives/Capellan Confederation War. In the initial attacks Warrior House Tsang Xiao leads the First Liao “The Zion†Lancers on an assault on Brighton overwhelming Devon's Armoured Infantry in six days of conflict. The Capellan troops eliminate the entire Devon's Armoured Infantry taking no prisoners. The Second Liao “The Styk†Lancers lead an attack on Vestallas while the St Cyr's Armoured Cavalry assault Milos causing the destruction of the Fourth St Ives Lancers Regiment. Across the St Ives Compact troops move to their war footing positions within the Federated Suns Capellan March and on the Star League world of Kittery troops prepare for a larger conflict.
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Forgot to wish you a happy birthday, good update, hope st ives can win their war.
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Forgot to wish you a happy birthday, good update, hope st ives can win their war.
Big three oh, I survived it
Third St Ives/Capellan Confederation War
St Ives Compact Claimed Space
9th July 3090
In response to the continued assaults against the St Ives Compact Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao rushes back to her nation. Enroute she hires Khasparov's Knights and Blanc's Coyotes Mercenary Regiments to bolster her nation's defences however neither unit is expected to arrive before mid-September. In the mid-term the Federated Suns loan the 12th Vegan Rangers Alpha Regiment, the Cunningham's Commandos and the Vanguard Legion to bolster St Ives defences.
These mercenaries arrive in the St Ives Compact the Third Liao “Alcol†Lancers land on Hustaing and the Fourth Liao “St Andre†Lancers land on Denbar. Opposing the St Ives defenders on Hustaing the local defences fold rapidly while Denbar continue to hold against the Capellan forces.
While St Ives defenders move to counter the Capellan attacks the Capellan WarShips CCSS Marcus Baxter and the CCSS Kali Liao, both Impavido-class Destroyers, jump into the Nashuar system ambushing the SIS Justin Allard, a Davion III-class Destroyer, although the Justin Allard damaged from previous combat it is able to heavily damage both Capellan vessels before being destroyed. The two Capellan vessels retreat from the Nashuar system before St Ives assault DropShips arrive to rescue survivors from the destroyer. The destruction of the Justin Allard robs the St Ives Compact of its last combat capable WarShip.
Graduation Ceremony, New Avalon Institute of Sciences
Avalon City, Crucis March
Federated Suns
11th July 3090
As another class passes out from the NAIS Duchess Jaylen Davion graduates with honours with a Law Degree. She is assigned to the Federated Suns Military Justice Department and receives a promotion to the rank of Captain. Despite her name, and her education, she is given a couple of support cases to work on.
Break-away State
Magistracy of Canopus
28th July 3090
As Capellan Confederation troops conquer the worlds of Vestallas, Denbar and Indicass from St Ives forces destroying Second Janissaries Regiment on Denbar and the St Ives Academy of Martial Sciences Training Group and the local militia forces on Vestallas are destroyed by the Fifth Liao “Old Kentucky†Lancers Regiment.
By HPG message to the entire Capellan Confederation and beyond Magestix Ilsa Centrella announces that she has made multiple requests to her brother for additional support in dealing with raids from the Rim Association and from the Marian Hegemony but that she has received no assistance. She announces that the people of Canopus have paid their due to the Capellan Confederation and that they will pay no more to support a Chancellor who wishes only to see more worlds brought under their control. With this HPG she announces that all former Magistracy of Canopus worlds and the conquered Free Worlds League systems of Thurrock, Fagerholm, Piriapolis, Butzfleth, Aspropirgos, Gouderak, Umka, Vakarel, Eleusis, Obrenovac, Russchegg, Saonara, Ayn Tarma, Rohinjan, Glevakha and Payvand had broken away to reform the Magistracy of Canopus. She announces that all Magistracy Canopus military units and the WarShips MCS Magistracy, MCS Belisong, and MCS Katara would be answering to Canopus.
By mid-August all nearby nations except for the Capellan Confederation have recognized the reborn Magistracy of Canopus as a new nation. The Magestix requests that the Star League Council confirm them as a member state First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion agrees however he announces that the Magistracy of Canopus will not have any voting potential within the Star League at the next Council and their membership will have to be confirmed by the other member states.
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Big three oh, I survived it
P'shaw, I've got the big 5-0 on Monday. Let me tell you, I'm not where I thought I would be when I was 18 and looking at my future. Not even close.
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Big three oh, I survived it
P'shaw, I've got the big 5-0 on Monday. Let me tell you, I'm not where I thought I would be when I was 18 and looking at my future. Not even close.
It's Monday where I am so I hope you have a good one
Third St Ives/Capellan Confederation War
St Ives Counter Attack, Denbar
Occupied territories, St Ives Compact
1st August 3090
The St Ives Compact led by Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao launches a counter-attack on the worlds occupied by the Capellan Confederation. Supported by the SIS Geneva, Melissa Allard-Liao's personal Artemis-class Escort Vessel, the First St Ives Lancers land on Denbar opposing occupying Capellan Confederation troops.
Rosse Bloodname Grand Melee
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat's Den, Periphery
3rd August 3090
Above all other competitors Sonja Nova Cat stood victorious in the Grand Melee. She had been denied a Trial of Bloodright and been forced to enter a Grand Melee on her return from New Avalon. She had fought off the other fifty entrants to fight her final battle against an angry Trueborn Sonja had used the warrior's anger against him forcing several mistakes in their unarmed fight all of which led to his eventual loss.
Now with the battle over she was Sonja Rosse of Clan Nova Cat a member of the Clan's elite Khan Canin Rosse entered the room. “Congratulations on your victory Sonja, I am proud.†He said approaching.
“Thank you my, Khan†Sonja replied formally turning towards him saluting. “I believe that Grayson should have deserved this opportunity.†She said thinking of her older sibling still on New Avalon.
“He will get his chance.†Canin Rosse confirmed “if you had not taken this opportunity now then the possibility existed that you would not get the chance again.†The Khan informed her “there are those who oppose you even having this chance.†He said quietly “we are sending you to New Aega to fight with the units based there.â€
“You are hiding me away, Quiaff?†She asked angry that there were those within the Nova Cats who would oppose her father. “I can fight my own battles.â€
“Aff, you can†he said reaching out touching her chin gently “however you cannot fight my battles. Remember you fight the battles you can win?†She nodded agreeing although she'd have preferred to stay and fight engaging those who would threaten her home was just as good. “Good, you leave tomorrow morning. I believe your mother wishes to congratulate you.†He said and without further words he turned and he left Sonja had realized when she was younger that her father was a man of few words when it came to relationships. You could see that he cared but he rarely put those feelings in words. Now however she would be the one to display some feelings as she engaged her Clan's enemies.
Federated Suns Offensive
Capellan Confederation Claimed space
8th August 3090
In an effort to get the Capellan Confederation's attention the Federated Suns launch an offensive against the Capellan Confederation intent on drawing attention. Officially the Federated Suns troops are securing the St Ives border region and supporting an ally unofficially the Federated Suns response seems pre-planned. As mercenary troops move into St Ives claimed territory the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT supported by the FSS John Gordon and the FSS George Michael Hasek, both Congress Block II-class Frigates, launch an attack onto Jacson threatening the Capellan Commonality Capital of Victoria. At the same time the the Sixth and Eighth Syrtis Fusiliers RCTs launched assaults on Jonzac, Verlo and Manapire again each of the attacks is supported by WarShip forces.
Finally on the Nineteenth in an attack similar to the one that he preformed on Kaznejoy in 3087 Prince Burton Davion, now a Colonel in the AFFS, leads the First Kittery Borderers RCT, Delta Company, the Fox's Teeth and the WarShips FSS Melissa Davion and the FSS William Davion, two Avalon-class Cruisers.
On the ground the First Kittery Borderers opposed the Fifth Liao Lancers Regiment. The Old Kentucky Lancers opposed the Federated Suns unit while the Fox's Teeth escorted Burton Davion to the planetary HPG. From the HPG station Burton sent a message to Sian just like he had from Kaznejoy to New Samarkand in 3087 the Federated Suns Prince sent a message for the Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation that should they continue their attacks then the Confederation will pay a high price.
The reaction from Sian to the message was to send the CCSS Tikonov and CCSS Sian, two Tikonov-class Carriers, while the fighters from these two ships quickly overwhelmed the Federated Suns fighters, DropShips and the two Avalon Cruisers. While the two Avalon's continued to battle against the Capellan craft and their fighters several of the Capellans descended into the atmosphere attacking the AFFS ground troops clearing a path for the Fifth Lancers to escape the world. As the ground forces escaped the Capellan fighters bombed the HPG station, the Governor's mansion and three of the Kittery Borderers DropShips into oblivion. Neither of the attacks harm Burton Davion or causes heavy losses to the Kittery Borderers but they showed that the Capellans are not done with Vestallas.
Third St Ives/Capellan Confederation War
St Ives, St Ives Compact
22nd August 3090
With the Federated Suns becoming involved in the St Ives/Capellan Confederation conflict no new attacks occur against the St Ives Compact however fighting continues on Nashaur, St Loris and Denbar. From the fighting on St Loris the Centrella Rangers Regiment goes AWOL from Capellan Confederation pledging loyalty to the Magistracy of Canopus. The Regiment formally known as Kingston's Rangers had been renamed in the honour of Naomi Centrella by Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao. Now with a new Chancellor and a reborn Magistracy of Canopus the unit had decided they were unwilling to continue to serve Dao-Shen Liao's “illegal†attack on the Confederation's neighbours the unit leaves its post heading for Canopus.
Although the fighting is winding down Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao, and the First St Ives Lancers, are both confirmed as missing in action on Denbar. The Capellan Confederation has blockaded the system with two WarShips and several assault DropShips refusing any access even through civilian channels the St Ives Compact approaches the Federated Suns for further assistance however the recent strikes against Capellan worlds have stretched the AFFS. On St Ives Duchess Kuan-Yin Allard-Liao takes control of the St Ives Compact until Melissa is recovered. With over half of the St Ives Compact occupied, five line regiments destroyed and their naval flagship destroyed however the St Ives nation is a broken one.
Throne Room, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
29th August 3090
With the Nova Cats refusing to speak with the Star League Defence Force since Duchess Vanessa Allard-Liao had left for St Ives the Federated Suns were the only way for someone to try an open communications with the Clan. The Nova Cats had been ignoring all calls from the Federated Suns on every level up even as far as the Office of Paul Bowman, Field Marshal of the Crucis March. With little further to do First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion stepped in demanding the commander of the Nova Cat Garrison report to the Throne Room of the Federated Suns.
Entering the Throne Room wearing his duty uniform Star Colonel Grayson walked towards the Federated Suns throne where the First Prince sat. Grayson stopped at a respectful distance but did not salute he was not a citizen of the Federated Suns and would not be spoken to like one. Surprisingly Victor Steiner-Davion did not remain seated on his throne instead he stood up and stepped down standing opposite Grayson. “Star Colonel, I think we need to discuss the situation between you Clan and the SLDF on New Aega.â€
“Neg, it does not concern the Federated Suns†Grayson said calmly in a mater-of-fact way. “We have a disagreement with the Star League Defence Force due to an offence that they caused against us the Federated Suns are not involved.â€
“I am not just speaking to you as the First Prince of the Federated Suns, I am also currently First Lord of the Star League Defence Force.†Victor stated
“Aff, I am aware†Grayson replied his annoyance rising “however I would respectfully say that you should check on your troops before you try to make up for what they have done.â€
“I already have†Victor replied ignoring Grayson's anger “the Department of Military Intelligence and the Star League's Military Intelligence Corps are working over what set off the First Royal ComGuard Regimental Brigade. However your continued refusal to allow them to leave New Aega makes it difficult to get a full picture of what happened.â€
“When they began this they did so like pirates they will be treated in kind they will remain our guests on New Aega. Any force that attempts to assist them will be classed as hostile and engaged.†Grayson replied pausing for a moment glancing around the throne room knowing what was expected of him “we will reopen our embassy out of respect for our hosts.â€
“Thank you, Star Colonel†Victor replied
“May I inquire what happened to Duchess Allard-Liao?†Grayson asked slightly awkwardly it felt strange asking for something from someone, anyone, it wasn't the Clan way.
“There are problems within the St Ives Compact, she is currently attending to affairs of state.â€
Victor explained Grayson could tell that it wasn't the whole truth but he remained silent as Victor continued “she is currently missing in action. Before she left she said that you were an honourable man, like your father†Victor said pointing out that he knew about Grayson's connection to Khan Canin Rosse.
“I do as my Clan demands of me.†Grayson said trying to show he was unmoved by Victor's words of praise. Without waiting for Victor to continue he turned and marched back out of the throne room.
“Of course†Victor replied when he didn't signal to the guards at the door they stepped aside allowing the Clan warrior to exit the room. “One of these days one of them will kill me.†Victor whispered looking at the door after it had closed before returning to his duties.
-
Time for a proper update O0 And this is a busy one.
I didn't write all this one. Once again some excellent writing from James Tanaga has brought the Fire Mandrills to life again.
Hope you enjoy.
Unit Wedding, McCarron Base Camp
New Kyoto, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
2nd September 3090
Following a whirlwind romance while their units are on New Kyoto Elizabeth McCarron and the Executive Officer of the Eridani Light Horse Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment Lt Colonel Malcolm Hague are married in a private ceremony within the McCarron base camp. Malcolm leaves SLDF service to join the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry as Elizabeth's XO as the First and Second McCarron's units merge into one extended Regiment following heavy damage to the second during the fighting with the Free Worlds League.
Elizabeth McCarron chooses to retain her McCarron name to ensure her children inherits her surname keeping the McCarron family line alive and well. Although it is not a widely known fact outside the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry Elizabeth is currently pregnant with her new husband's first child.
Nova Cat Reinforcements
New Aega, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
4th September 3090
From the cockpit of her Shadow Cat OmniMech Star Commander Sonja Rosse could feel the vibrations through her Mech as the Broadsword-class DropShip dived through the atmosphere. She felt nervous, it was strange, she had seen combat before but this was her first combat with a Bloodname, it really did make a difference.
“BattleMechs, this is Bridge, SLDF forces have pushed out to the primary OZ. DropShips are redirecting, hang on.â€
“Bridge, this is Star Commander Rosse, request permission for a hover-drop insertion over Primary OZ.â€
“There are hostile BattleMechs and Armour attempting to overwhelm DropShips...†the DropShip commander warned.
“Understood, open the doors†Sonja ordered realizing the pilot would react better to an order from a Bloodnamed warrior than a request from a Star Commander.
“Aff, opening doors.†The commander reported Sonja steadied her OmniMech as she stepped it closer to the doors. Slowly the doors opened in front of the Shadow Cat. “Leveling out, watch out for hostiles.â€
“Understood, Striker One away†she called out of the Mech bay triggering her Mech's jump jets. She heard the other four members of the star calling out as there Mechs stepped off the DropShip. As she dropped through the air Sonja scanned the ground seeing several green painted BattleMechs and Armoured vehicles battling against the darker coloured Nova Cat units. All around the falling Nova Cats were other DropShips and aerospace fighters supporting the reinforcements insertion. Sighting a Star League BattleMech, a fifty-five ton Wraith BattleMech, blasting away with its lasers she aimed her OmniMech's Gauss rifle at the BattleMech and fired a shot. The supersonic slug crossed the distance between the two slamming into the Mech's torso knocking the warrior back. Sonja increased the jump jet output on her OmniMech as it fell slowing her descent “Striker One down.†She called out immediately her OmniMech was slammed by a flight of Long Range Missiles the Shadow Cat rocked heavily as the high explosive warheads ripped at her Mech's armoured hide. Turning around she spotted the origin of the missiles a Joust Medium Tank. Sonja snarled angrily as she cut off another gauss rifle shot at the vehicle originally produced by Clan Nova Cat, she guessed that Clan Sea Fox had sold it to the SLDF but it could have easily been traded by a Nova Cat trader. Trade of weapons was always a double edged sword although it brought resources into the Clan one day those weapons could be turned against the seller, just like today.
Sonja never even bothered to watch as the supersonic slug slammed into the Joust's turret turning away she turned back to see the Wraith she had attacked through her decent. With the Gauss Rifle still reloading she targeted both her Mech's Extended-Range Medium Lasers on the Wraith striking the Mech's torso with both blasts. The Wraith returned fire with its pulse lasers burning away some of her Mech's leg armour. Sidestepping her Shadow Cat Sonja glanced at her gauss rifle's status and saw the weapon go green indicating it was reloaded ready to fire with a glance up she pulled the trigger sending another shot into the medium design the gauss slug slammed into the Wrath's faceplate decapitating the medium Mech. “They are falling back†another Nova Cat's voice reported over the radio glancing around Sonja could see several SLDF and Taurian Concordat Mechs turning around that the Taurians had supported the SLDF's actions made Sonja even more angry her father had given the Taurians a chance at peace with the Nova Cats, instead they had thrown it in the Clan's face with this attack. Sonja Rosse didn't feel this fight was over just yet throwing her Mech into the air she scanned the Battlefield finding the Joust she had damaged before was part of the group retreating firing both her lasers she was satisfied seeing one burn across the side of the vehicle, although it was nothing that would threaten the tank or its crew she had put them on notice that the next time they would not be so lucky to be able to retreat.
Throne Room, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th September 3090
The Federated Suns navy and planetary defences had been put on alert as an unknown vessel had been detected entering the system via a pirate point. Their fears had been put at ease slightly as the SLS Mopelia Island, the Star League Defence Force's newest Patriot-class Heavy Cruiser, had emerged from the jump broadcasting its IFF. Communicating with the ground the Mopelia Island had informed New Avalon that onboard they had General Katya Christifori, Head of Star League Intelligence, who needed to speak with the First Lord immediately. Under escort of the FSS Destiny, one of the Federated Suns First Prince Block II-class Battleships, the Mopelia Island had been allowed to enter New Avalon orbit with Katya taking a DropShuttle directly from the DropShip to the Royal Palace. Such unannounced arrivals were not common even from high ranking members of the AFFS as First Prince of the Federated Suns and First Lord of the Star League Victor planned to make abundantly clear to General Christifori that she better have a good reason for the manner of her arrival. He knew Katya quite well having met her on several occasions with her husband, retired Commanding-General Archer Christifori, he also knew she was a former Lyran Commonwealth Intelligence Officer.
The doors opened and General Katya Christifori marched into the throne room saluting in traditional Star League Defence Force style. “Sir, I apologies for the unannounced visit†despite her Lyran heritage he noticed she used her military position instead of respect for his rank and position within the SLDF.
“You are very lucky, General†Victor said raising from the throne “when last a ship arrived unannounced in this system it was commanded by Anastasius Focht. I informed him that day he was lucky not to lose his ship, you are similarly lucky, we do not take intrusion into this system lightly.â€
“I apologies again, First Prince Davion, I have a matter that effects the stability of the Star League and of the Federated Suns border.†She explained she said producing a small computer pad passing it to the Federated Suns leader “on this noteputer is details of recent findings by the Star League Intelligence Corps.†She said pausing for a moment as he began to look at the information “as you are aware the SLIC were tasked with investigating what happened to cause the First Royal ComGuard Brigade to go rogue and assault Clan Nova Cat held space.†She said as he read the summary page of the report “we began on Althea's Choice.†She began “although the First RCG Brigade removed much of the salvage from the battlefield there were two BattleMech Chassis and three Elemental Battle Armour suits that had been deemed as too badly damaged to be recovered in the limited time they had before launching their attack.†Victor nodded as he changed the display screen showing an image of three badly damaged Elemental suits all had suffered severe damage and still had blood on them, most likely from the troopers who had worn them. The next screen showed what looked like a Nova Medium OmniMech and a Summoner Heavy OmniMech, the Nova lacked both of its arms one looked like it had been completely blown off while the other was severed in the middle of the arm while the Summoner was missing both its legs which had been severed at the knees and the cockpit, both were painted in Nova Cat camouflage however they looked wrong to Victor.
Although the First Prince knew that each Clan had examples of nearly every type of Clan Mech in their Toumans and few considered any type of fighting equipment to be taboo or beneath their use Victor knew that both of these OmniMechs were far more popular with Clan Jade Falcon he had fought against both types of OmniMechs during the early stages of the Clan War. “Five examples of Clan technology does not prove anything, General, in fact I would say it goes to prove the First RCG's case.â€
“We didn't stop there, sir, our agents tested the remains of the Battle Armour troopers†she said Victor imagined that had not been the most pleasant of jobs given the state of the armour “none of the three troopers were of Elemental birth†again not conclusive evidence Victor knew that the Clans employed freeborn, or natural born, warriors in their Elemental forces. “In fact one, at one point, applied for SLDF Battle Armour training.â€
“SLDF†Victor said surprised praying that this attack had not been perpetrated by their own people, that would really set the Nova Cats off and could kill the Star League Defence Force's future.
“He applied but did not get through basic training. He was originally born on Taurus but had emigrated to the Capellan Confederation when a child. When he failed to join the Capellan military he chose to try and join the SLDF.â€
“What did he fail on?â€
“Psych evaluation†Katya explained Victor was surprised he had failed to make it in the Capellan Armed Forces, the last he checked 'a little crazy' was part of their recruitment policy. Katya made no effort to read the amusement that played on Victor's face instead carrying on “as the Battle Armour Corps is quite often the SLDF's first contact with the general public each of its candidate troopers are screened this particular warrior showed a tendency to resolve conflict with conflict striking first at his enemy in sometimes the nastiest way.
“Could he have joined a mercenary force and been captured by the Nova Cats?†Victor asked Katya shook her head.
“Once we had established that he was who we believed we tracked his personal details through the records of private companies transporting personnel and equipment in the region of the Capellan Confederation, St Ives Compact and Federated Suns Capellan March.â€
“Records which are supposed to be sealed and under State oversight not SLDF.†Victor said angrily although he respected everyone who joined the SLDF and wished them all the success he did not like them stepping over their bounds and oaths, not did he like that neither the DMI or MIIO had picked up on this infringement.
“Sir, you ordered us to find the truth to this attack. This was the length we had to go to.†Katya explained equally serious as the First Prince had been angry Victor nodded for her to continue. “Sir, we tracked his name to Taurus. There he enlisted with the Taurian Concordat again choosing to join ground forces and to join the Battle Armour training program. The Taurians do not have the same checks or requirements as the SLDF. He was successful in joining the Taurian military.â€
“An inside job? The Taurians attacked the SLDF?†He said now becoming irritated again “why? Where did they acquire so much Clan technology to pull off such a strike?†He asked none of this was making enough sense.
“Once part of the Taurian military he served for three years before completely disappearing from sight. After our people had established that he had served in the Taurian military we began to look at the other elements of this puzzle. Members of the SLIC challenged and won a dual with a Sea Fox merchant based on Spica, there we gained access to their trading records.†Victor nodded he had heard of intelligence agencies challenging the Foxes before for information more often than not bargaining some of their own information in return. He knew of three instances the DMI had engaged in such activities and had become quite annoyed when he had been informed that the DMI had not always been successful in such activities. “Under a fake Taurian Marshal's name the Taurian Concordat have been funneling funds and resources to Clan Sea Fox. In return the Sea Fox Clan have been providing the Taurians with Clan equipment.â€
“You can hardly blame them. The Capellan Confederation has hardly been a stable place recently and Clan Nova Cat is active in the Fronc Reaches which is on the Taurian front door, their new colonies have brought them closer and closer to Taurian claimed systems. I would not be surprised if Clan Nova Cat launch raids against the Taurians?†He saw Katya nod confirming that the SLDF was aware of such activity “so how can you blame the Taurians for trying to acquire such material? The Federated Suns do the same as does the SLDF, this is why trading worlds such as Spica, Hamilton, Itabiana and Kyeinnisan exist.†He said naming the four trading worlds in the Succession States the only nation not to feature such a world was the Capellan Confederation due to problems the Sea Fox Clan and the Capellans had experienced on Sarna.
“Yes First Lord, however the Taurian line regiments have not become much stronger despite the Sea Fox Clan providing them with more than a regiment worth of equipment.†Victor looked at Katya surprised the Taurians had been able to acquire so much. “Instead with the Sea Fox records we tracked these shipments to a single location the Davetal system. In the heart of the Taurian Concordat not a single Sea Fox ship was allowed to offload their equipment on the planet instead they were ordered to dock with two modified Shoden Mining Stations which act as sentries for the system.â€
“Why spend such an amount of resources on a system so deep inside their borders?â€
“Unknown, so far we have not been able to penetrate their defences. Each time we do we come across troopers belonging to a unit we have never seen before.†She explained as Victor changed the screen onto the last page showing a Taurian uniform arm with a red ancient Greek “Omega†letter from Terra superimposed over a blue number six. “For obvious reasons we have dubbed this unit Omega Six.†She said Victor nodded looking at the image before scrolling back through the images.
“And this evidence points towards this unit? Anyone within the Taurian Government implicated?â€
“I'm sorry, sire†she said more respectfully as she apologized again “we have not got enough information on that.â€
“I understand, General, I will take this to the Nova Cat Ambassador and hopefully end this conflict. I wish for you to remain on New Avalon for the foreseeable future I do not assume that will be a problem?†He asked
“No, sir, the SLS Mopelia Island, myself and the four teams of the Eighty-Third Special Operations Battalion, of the SAS, are at your disposal until this problem is resolved.†She explained Victor nodded liking the idea of having the Patriot-class Heavy Cruiser and its Special Forces troopers around.
“Hopefully Arch won't mind too much?†He said on a more personal note talking of her husband retired SLDF Commanding-General and Governor of Thorin Archer Christifori. Victor had served with Archer during the Clan War when they had both served within the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT.
“He has left me waiting plenty of times First Lord, perhaps it is my turn.†She said with an amused smile.
“I will have an office set up for you at the Palace.†He offered she nodded a silent reply Victor looked at the pad again holding it tightly, hopefully this was the start of ending the current conflict.
Fire Mandrill Settlement
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
19th September 3090
Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday sat on a play-ground swing, watching children playing while their parents watched them. Both the children and their parents kept their distance from her, though she did not mind. The cool morning air brushed at her back as she kept to her thoughts. The past few weeks had been a period of transition to both her people and to the population of All Dawn. The first few days was filled with tension on both sides, but by following the advice from the few members of Clan Sea Fox with them and acting as refugees rather than conquerors that tension had largely dissipated. Until last week. That tension returned nearly in full though, as news of a ship from the Rim Collection had managed to jump away from All Dawn minutes after arriving had given these people hope. And meant her people were once again in danger. The enclave was on full alert and orders have been given in case her Kindraa once again needed to evacuate. Within Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga there was a strong sense of anger, but also with one of hopelessness, with many beginning to think they would never find a new home.
Two days ago, a negotiation team from the Rim Collection jumped into the system on board the same JumpShip that had escaped. This time, though, the ship had been identified as the RCS Enduring Freedom, a Merchant-class JumpShip specially modified with a L-F battery and gifted to the Rim Collection by the Star League when the Rim Collection regained its independence from the Lyran Commonwealth. Galaxy Commander Evangeline Clarke of the Steelsoul Khanate, herself having arrived just hours earlier had identified the ship, had also pointed out that the Star League Ambassador had traveled to the Collection aboard it. The mere fact it was carrying the Star League ambassador meant they had to proceed with caution. Her Kindraa could not risk angering the Star League; not yet, she thought with a small feral smile.
Back in the play-ground a pink and blue ball rolled to her, bringing her out of her thoughts, looking to where it came from she noted a small group of children. They were looking at her and each other, as if trying to gather the courage to come get the ball; finally a young girl seemed to gather enough courage to do so. She ran forward to the ball, only to stop a few feet from it as Cassandra stood up off the swing. Staring at the young girl, the warrior saw many emotions come across the young girl’s face; displayed there was anger and fear, but also courage, Cassandra noted to herself, giving the girl a small nod of encouragement. Ever so slowly the girl crept her way to the ball, staring at Cassandra, no she was glaring at the Clan woman. Definitely had courage, Cassandra thought as she silently watched the young girl finally reached for the ball. Cassandra took the two steps it took to reach the ball as well. 'Let me see if you have brains as well' Cassandra thought the smile remaining on her face. ‘Many sibko children did not at your age.’
As the girl leaned down to get the ball, Cassandra did as well, putting her hand on the top, pinning the ball to the ground. Cassandra saw a frown come across the girl’s face, just as what had to be her mother come running behind her. She stopped only a couple feet away from them her eyes shifting back and forth from her daughter to Cassandra. Finally the young girl spoke “Can I have the ball back please?†So she does have brains asking before trying to take the ball from the Clan warrior, Cassandra thought, as she continued looking at the young child. Finally she nodded and let go of the ball. Watching the girl grab the ball and turn around, she saw the girl’s mother wrap her arms around her, whispering quietly to her as they turned back.
A voice startled her snapping her from the small scene. “Enjoying scaring the locals to death Cassandra?†Jacob Faraday, her lover and the Loremaster of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga asked.
“Neg. I came here to gather my thoughts. You know I enjoy seeing children smile and laugh even if they are Freeborn and not of our Clan.â€
“Aff,†was her sibkin’s reply. She made it a point throughout her leading Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga to be seen with the lower castes, fostering a very healthy respect between all the castes. He continued. “Jerold Danforth just reported the Rim Collection negotiation team has landed. He and Evangeline Clarke are with them and are bringing them to HQ.†Cassandra’s smile turned into a snarl, for the mentioned Crusader warrior had long become a thorn in her side. His strength of leadership and ability to put the good of the Kindraa before the good of the Crusader cause allowed her to respect him however. The Sea Fox warrior Evangeline Clarke had been invaluable to the Sea Fox Clan so far although they had to give the Foxes much it was a service well worth it.
“Let us get this over with,†she answered him.
“Aff,†was his reply. “Perhaps later we could enjoy the company of each other.†He winked at the end.
Rolling her eyes, despite the seriousness of the situation the man still had time to think about sex, she answered him nonetheless with a single word and a knowing smile of her own. “Perhaps.†Quickly, they exited the park and reached their vehicle, where two burly warriors of Elemental stock guarded. Once inside they made their way back to HQ in quiet silence.
Later at their HQ Cassandra Faraday rested her head on her hand, listening to the head of the Rim Collection negotiation team, an elder man as old as Jerold Danforth in a black suit. His name was Robert Strauss and he knew how to speak, no argue with Jacob Faraday. Back and forth, the two had argued over every little thing, while she, Jerold Danforth, Theodore Albiev, and the young Star League ambassador, Joseph Conway, a man of thirty-some years of age kept quiet, allowing the Sea Fox Galaxy Commander Evangeline Clarke to play the mediator in this dispute. Fortunately it was something that Clan Sea Fox had done quite well throughout its history, she thought, with no small disgust; they had always found themselves a way to find themselves useful. Still the Sea Fox Khanate Evangeline Clarke led was perhaps their only ally the Fire Mandrills of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga had at the moment and were the only way that her people could establish themselves over a longer term. Fortunately the Sea Fox woman had somehow kept the negotiations going forward until this issue reared its ugly head. Jacob Faraday had demanded total secrecy for their Kindraa, something that Robert Strauss said was simply not possible due to All Dawn being the primary entry point into the Rim Collection. Something she, nor her Mandrills, had thought of when they selected this world as their new home. Truthfully, they only selected the world as it lay on the Lyran Commonwealth’s border. The fact they could control the Rim Collection through this small world gave her Kindraa a huge advantage in these negotiations, however.
She came out of her thoughts as she heard Ambassador Joseph Conway speak, causing her to lift her head from her hand to listen to him. “The SLDF will likely inform the Lyrans of you being here, for it is their duty to serve each of the Star League's member states after all. Secrecy is just not possible.†Cassandra saw her lover start to say something, only to be stopped as the ambassador continued, no doubt angering the prideful warrior. “However, you see the new Star League it is what it is, we have responsibilities to our member states. I propose something different.â€
She raised her hand to silence her people as she nodded giving the younger man her permission to continue. “Secrecy just is not possible," he repeated "Your WarShips are a dead giveaway something is not right. Your detaining of JumpShips will antagonize the Lyrans and the Star League into handling you, aggressively." He said quietly. Theodore Albiev and Jerold Danforth both raised to their feet antagonized by Joseph Conway's words, causing Cassandra to once again raise her hand in an instant silencing their responses as Robert Strauss spoke up.
"Kindraa Leader, I can inform you now that the Rim Collection would prefer to avoid a military confrontation. We have only recently regained our independence we have no wish to become involved in something that may lead to us rejoining the Lyran Commonwealth, nor would we welcome an influx of SLDF troops within our territory.†He paused, but shortly after he continued. “What I propose is this. Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga of Clan Fire Mandrill will provide 'services' to the Rim Collection" he said carefully seeing the reactions play on the Fire Mandrill's faces "and in return, the Rim Collection will allow Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga to remain on All Dawn, but will not interfere with the local population unless it effects the safety of your people. All Dawn will remain a member world of the Rim Collection" Strauss said sternly. "Your Kindraa will join as an additional member, will have a full say in Rim Collection politics, and will remain so as long as they continue to provide agreed upon services for the Rim Collection. Should the Rim Collection or Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga decide to leave this agreement, Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga will peacefully leave the Rim Collection after a period of three months under SLDF escort, either deeper into the Inner Sphere or to the borders of the Rim Collection.†Not once did he use a contraction, impressive, Cassandra thought to herself. She hated the idea of her Kindraa, what remained of her Clan, being little more than mercenaries to the Rim Collection's side.
Jerold Danforth spoke for what was in many of her thoughts then. “This…agreement effectively means we become dezgra mercenaries!†Cassandra caught the eye of Evangeline Clarke, the Khanates of her Clan were in a similar position, living their lives on worlds of other nations and in the dark of space.
“It is that or Annihilation,†Evangeline Clarke pointed out gaining angry views from the Fire Mandrills. “You can follow the rest of your Clan.†She spat out she was equally angry with the surviving Mandrills than she was those who remained in the Clan Homeworlds. One piece of information that the Clan had brought with them was to confirm that the WarShip Armageddon, a Sea Fox Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser had been captured by the Society in the Periphery before it could return to the Inner Sphere.
“And Clan Sea Fox has similar agreements concerning their Khanates.†Conway said nodding his thanks to Clarke as he brought the Fire Mandrill warriors gaze back on him. The Sea Fox were independent in this, there was no need for Clarke to take the brunt of the Fire Mandrill anger.
“That is true,†answered Evangeline Clarke. “Yet we are only contracted to defend worlds our enclaves share, not an entire nation, and we do control our own territory when it is required.â€
The room became quiet, as both sides seemed to gather themselves for the next confrontation. Cassandra and Jerold both looked at each and nodded it was time to break the cycle. “We will remain on All Dawn regardless of what is threatened towards us. Our people will not run any longer." She said defiantly she knew that was what her people needed to hear, it was however, also the last thing that Robert Strauss and Joseph Conway wanted to hear. "However we are not the Smoke Jaguars," she said naming the former clan. She knew the image of that Clan and its fall would hit her own people especially since they had died at the hands of the new Star League. "Provided we can come into an agreement with the Rim Collection concerning specifically these services our people will provide," she said carefully, "our Kindraa will stop interdicting JumpShips, we will help defend this world and the Rim Collection. Understand this, however, we are Warriors of Kerensky, we are not mercenary scum to be ordered about. We will work with you, not for you. Quiaff?â€
Some of her Mandrills started to speak up Cassandra thought for a moment he would they would speak out against her, before any could speak Jerold Danforth slammed his fist on the table, eliciting a jump from many in the room, including Conway, Strauss and the Sea Fox Evangeline Clarke. “As long as the Rim Collection minds its place, and remembers who we are it has my support.â€
As her Mandrills became quiet once again, Cassandra Faraday spoke up. “The next move is yours, it seems we have made our decision and our new bed.†Slowly, but surely, the agreement was drawn up. It took an additional four days of intense arguing, but eventually it was completed. Clan Fire Mandrill had finally found a home.
Starliner One, Main Conference Room
Unknown Periphery System
20th September 3090
Standing in front of the cameras Sir Richard Branson X spoke to reporters that would carry this story throughout the Inner Sphere as Virgin Interstellar unveiled its next big project. The Starliner One had journeyed from Terra to be the observation point for the launch of Virgin Interstellar's next big project the Starliner Two. Richard Branson X had chosen this remote system for two reasons firstly it was because this was where the WarShip that had become the Starliner Two was being held by the SLDF and secondly it was because this project was something a little different for Virgin Interstellar unlike the Starliner One's original mission to take people around the Inner Sphere on one continuous multi-year journey the Starliner Two would follow a different path.
“So ladies and gentlemen that is what the Starliner Two plans to do.†Richard Branson X said he was a middle aged man, he had kept his body in shape with various sports activities during his life and now his hair and goatee were both silver in colour. He looked out at the crowd seeing their stunned faces and tried not to smile. “Questions?†He asked instead of the usual rush made by reporters trying to be first it took several moments before one stood up.
“Sir Branson, Simmone Ashe Interstellar News Network, are you seriously telling us that the Starliner Two is a generation ship? That will take people away from the Inner Sphere.â€
“Well yes that is what the Starliner Two is but we don't plan to be on the ship for the rest of our lives. It is a scientific and social experiment more than anything. The vessel we have selected for the Starliner Two was once a Carrack-class Transport vessel in services with the Star League Defence Force. Due to some combat, which unfortunately I am unable to detail this ship has completely lost her ability to jump from system to system. The Star League Defence Force has the ability to repair this ship however we at Virgin Interstellar have had a superior idea.†He said proudly “there are scientific experiments that cannot be completed within the bounds of a laboratory. JumpShips and their attending DropShips very often do not have the space or the time to be involved in such experiments so we have turned the Starliner Two into the largest traveling laboratory ever created. We will take twenty years to travel with this ship into the depths of space and explore the areas between the stars, the Starliner Two has its own water recycling systems, we will grow our own food, and we will create our own entertainment.â€
“Sir Branson, you are saying we a lot. Surely you mean the people on board the Starliner Two?†A male reporter with a brown suit and blonde hair asked.
“No Jamar†he said recognizing the reporter “I mean we, I have chosen to travel on board the Starliner Two.†He said stunning the reporters now unlike before there was a swarm of reporters raising from their chairs but Richard Branson ignored them all raising his hands calming them to silence “ladies and gentlemen. I have spent the last forty years of my life building Virgin Interstellar into the company that it is today. I have pioneered the way that the people of the Inner Sphere see Interstellar Travel and how they see WarShips, you are the product of that today standing on board a vessel that was once a tool of destruction which is now a passenger vessel.†He said stressing the point “my company nor the people of the Inner Sphere need my continued interference to continue. Instead I think I'd like to write my memoirs and have some time to explore another area of my life.†He said seeing the reporters trying to comprehend his choice. “Now perhaps you would like to see the Starliner Two?†He said as the room lights darkened the massive clam-shell doors covering the massive space window began to open revealing the darkness of space. It was a strange feeling to be beside such a massive window that looked out onto space thick enough to resist a minor impact the window was completely transparent standing so close to the window Richard could almost reach out and touch space.
The view was incredible as was the sight directly in front of the window several thousand metres away the massive two-point-three million ton, almost three kilometre long Newgrange-class Yardship the SLS Mercy hung in space. Alongside the massive green painted vessel were several DropShips and aerospace fighters. “Ladies and Gentlemen this is not the Starliner Two, but instead this is the Star League Starship Mercy, one of only three known survivors of the Newgrange-class Yardship employed by the First Star League Defence Force.†He explained to those not aware of what the massive vessel was it truly was spectacular especially given the views from the Starliner One's observation deck. “And this is the Starliner Two†He announced as the massive forward doors of the Newgrange opened, the vessel was gigantic but as the massive “jawâ€-like doors at the front of the ship opened the reporters could see another far smaller ship exiting from the craft. She was painted in the same colours as the Starliner One a white base with a deep red lower hull. “at three hundred thousand tons and nearly a kilometre in length the Starliner Two will play host to myself and six thousand other volunteers, crewmen and scientists as we travel through the void between systems. On board are dozens of relay communication satellites which we will use to send messages back to the Inner Sphere and hopefully received letters from family and from those interested in this journey. All details of this journey will be broadcast along the Star League's Entertainment Grid and be available to all subscribers.†He said getting in the company briefing “this is a journey into the unknown, a journey of a lifetime, and we plan to make the most of it.†He said finishing off his presentation as the Starliner Two turned away from the Mercy moving over the Starliner One passing directly over the observation deck allowing the reporters to see the modified Carrack's own observation decks and special modifications for future scientific experiments. As the ship disappeared from view the reporters burst into applause Sir Richard Branson X stood smiling knowing that yet again his company had succeeded where no other had even tried, this story would sell across the Inner Sphere and make millions his legacy was secured and the journey had yet to begin.
St Ives Garrison Contracts
St Ives Compact Claimed space
22nd September 3090
With the Capellan Confederation continuing to raid the beleaguered St Ives Compact the remains of this small nation are boosted by the arrival of Khasparov's Knights and the Blanc's Coyotes Mercenary Regiments. Unlike the mercenary units which St Ives had “borrowed†from the Federated Suns these units would fight for the St Ives Compact and hopefully begin to stem the tide of the Capellan advance. Arriving nearly simultaneously the units are posted to Nashuar and St Loris both on the Capellan border to boost the St Ives defenders.
-
Time for the next bit
Diplomatic Meeting, Nova Cat Embassy
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
1st October 3090
Within the Nova Cat Embassy on New Avalon the Nova Cats were on their highest alert ever since they took up residence on the world. No attack was expected but the embassy was playing host to a very special visitor with the First Prince of the Federated Suns, and First Lord of the reformed Star League, Victor Steiner-Davion visiting. The fact that Victor was visiting an Embassy in his own capital city showed how seriously that the Star League and its First Lord were taking the current conflict with Clan Nova Cat. Elementals in Battle Armour suits stepped aside at the front door allowing the entry of two troopers wearing Infiltrator III Heavy Battle Armour suits. These suits were painted in the deep green of the Star League Defence Force and carried the insignia of the Royal Black Watch along with the Cameron Star. Behind them Victor Steiner-Davion entered wearing the uniform of a Star League Defence Force Commanding-General all three showing who Victor represented with this visit.
“Ambassador Grayson of Clan Nova Cat, I am First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion and I would like to discuss the ongoing conflict on the world of New Aega. And the reasons behind that conflict.†Victor said formally.
“Clan Nova Cat will welcome such a discussion.†Grayson said turning to the side allowing Victor to enter the room behind Grayson. As Grayson followed the First Lord a Nova Cat lower-casteman wearing all white pulled the door closed. “First Lord, please take a seat†Grayson said moving around the large rectangular wood table that dominated the room.
“Thank you, Star Colonel†Victor said taking a chair, Grayson stepped around the desk and sat down across from the First Lord. “Recently I have tasked the Star League Intelligence Corps into routing out the reason why the First RCG launched their assault on New Aega. We initially believed that they were attacked by a Clan Nova Cat Supernova Trinary.â€
“Which did not occur...†Grayson began before Victor began to speak again breaking over Grayson.
“I know†Victor admitted “Star Colonel the SLIC discovered, and DMI confirmed, that the Nova Cats were not responsible for the attack on the First Royal ComGuard Brigade.†Grayson nodded “we have also discovered who did conduct the attack. A Taurian Concordat...â€
“Taurian...!†Grayson shouted raising from his chair, Victor slowly raised to his feet as well, he was very glad he had told his Battle Armoured bodyguards not to react unless he directly called out for them.
“Yes... But not a Taurian unit under its government's flag.†Victor began to explain “at least not as far as we believe†Victor admitted, it was possible that someone deep within the Taurian Concordat was supporting Omega Six but so far evidence had not been found.
“Where are they based? To give them up as responsible is not enough, they must answer to our Clan's grievance.†Grayson demanded looking at the First Lord his anger in check, just.
“They have not only caused a grievance with your Clan Star Colonel, they have caused they have cause plenty of trouble for the Star League Defence Force as well, should you invade the Taurian Concordat then there will be untold destruction on both sides.â€
“The Taurian Concordat cannot resist us they have neither the defences or the armies to stop us.†Grayson said confidently.
“But should you come into conflict with the Taurian Concordat the Star League Defence Force and, by extension of our alliance, the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns will be drawn into conflict with your Clan. You will face us all.†Victor said with a grim determination he needed to make sure the Nova Cats understood the total consequences in their actions.
“These actions cannot go unanswered!†Grayson said angrily.
“I agree with you Star Colonel†Victor admitted “however it needs to be done in the correct way.†He said pausing retaking his seat “the Taurian government are aware that the Star League Intelligence Corps have been operating within the Taurian Concordat. I will inform them that we have identified a raider base hostile to the Taurian Concordat and the Star League and I will request permission to engage these forces.â€
“Request†Grayson said angrily “we do not request First Lord. These people have wronged our people, they have wronged your people, we strike back at them. What if the Taurians are aware of this unit that you speak of and they discreetly move them? Our opportunity is lost Quiaff?â€
“That would be the case†Victor admitted
“Then we strike at them without warning, you can inform the Taurians after our operations are over.â€
“Which could cause a far wide ranging conflict. Understand the Taurians have never given up the use of nuclear weapons when the need arises.†Victor cautioned the Nova Cat.
“And that would be a mistake.†Grayson said sitting opposite Victor.
“Allow me to inform the Taurians we will be conducting an operation against suspected forces on Althea's Choice.†Victor said naming the original Taurian world that the First ComGuard Regimental Brigade had been attacked on. “I will deploy forces there however the main SLDF force will rendezvous with a Clan Nova Cat strike force for the main fight.â€
“And just how long will all that take? The longer this goes on the longer your people will remain on New Aega.â€
“I can have a message to the Taurians within an hour. Forces can be within striking distance of Althea's Choice within the month. I will leave New Avalon with the First Royal Black Watch Brigade and the SLS Mopelia Island with you to join the Nova Cat strike force.â€
“You will, Quiaff?â€
“Aff†Victor said using the Clan response “the Star League takes this threat seriously Star Colonel.†Grayson nodded his agreement to the plan studying the First Lord's face. “Perhaps the success of this operation will prove that the Star League was formed for the protection of all of humanity.â€
“It is agreed†Grayson finally said “I will pass on your terms to saKhan Michael Drummond. I will also have this agreement passed to the First Royal ComGuards, if they stop operations against us, then we will leave them alone.â€
Principality of Regulus Offensive
Principality of Regulus
Former Free Worlds League
3rd October 3090
Intent on building a cushion around Regulus the Principality of Regulus launches twin attacks on the worlds of Aitutaki and Harmony, both currently held by the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. Supported by the WarShips RS Lester Cameron-Jones, an Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser, and the RS Clipperton, a Regulus-class Frigate, the Second and Third Regulan Hussars Regiments assault Aitutaki finding only light defences there quickly conquering the world.
At the same time from Regulus the RS Kirc Cameron-Jones and the RS Regulus, two Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruisers, supported the Sixth Regulan Hussars and Avanti's Angels Mercenary command in an attack on Harmony. At the Harmony Nadir point the two WarShips encountered the MSC Marik's Pride, a Zechetinu II-class Corvette, and the MSC Harbinger, a Venturer-class Light Cruiser, the RS Kirc Cameron-Jones and RS Regulus immediately turned to engage while the ground forces scattered and headed towards the planet. In space the two Regulan ships proved to have too much firepower for the Marik-Stewart vessels as launched a full attack on the defenders working in tandem the two Agamemnon-class vessels caused heavy damage to the Marik's Pride rapidly they disabled the Corvette before putting marines aboard the ship overpowering the surviving crew. The vessel's main drives and K-F core along with the majority of its weapons were damaged or destroyed in the battle leaving little of worth for the Regulans. The MSC Harbinger proved to be far more of a handful however. As the two Regulan craft disabled and captured the Marik's Pride the Harbinger had circled them causing heavy damage to the Kirc Cameron-Jones with its arrays of Heavy Naval Particle Cannons and Naval Lasers. As the two Regulan WarShips turned their focus on the Venturer-class Light Cruiser the commander of the Harbinger took his ship directly between the two Regulan craft once again using its heavy energy weapon arrays to cause maximum damage while avoiding major damage in return, neither Regulan craft could take clear shots due to the Harbinger passing closely between them, once clear of the Regulan ships the Harbinger activated its K-F Drive and escaped the system before the RS Regulus could turn to give chase. Following the battle the RS Kirc Cameron-Jones was abandoned in the Harmony system the Principality of Regulus not having the resources or the required Yardship to effect repairs on the ship. Instead they have used tug-type DropShips to push the ship away from the Harmony system's star nearer Harmony II where they keep a constant visual on the WarShip hoping to recover it at some point. On the ground the Regulans find the Third Marik-Stewart Guards Regiment which refuses several opportunities to surrender the world instead digging into their positions. For nearly three weeks the Regulus forces and their mercenary support units tried, and ultimately failed, to dislodge the defenders. On the 2nd November 3090 the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth diplomatic team on Regulus requested that the remains of the unit be allowed
Primary Landing Field
New Aega, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
9th October 3090
As word had come from the negotiations on New Avalon a cease fire had been agreed between the Nova Cats and the SLDF on New Aega. Both sides had agreed that salvage left from previous battles would be returned to their original owners salvage crews were given allotted times agreed on by both sides to enter the no mans land to recover equipment and the remains of fallen comrades.
As a Star Commander, bloodnamed or not, Sonja Rosse had been assigned command of one of these salvage teams which were made up of lower castemen, mainly expendable freeborns, on this occasion Sonja did not mind despite her bloodname she was still a freeborn warrior and this particular salvage mission gave her an opportunity to revisit the place where this battle had begun for her.
New Aega was not the most pleasant of worlds Clan Nova Cat had colonized it due to the resources they could mine here. As a result as the Nova Cats picked through the wreckage of ruined Mechs and vehicles most wore at the least eye protection while many wore full face masks. The air was perfectly breathable but the cold and the wind was uncomfortable even at the warmest times. Moving across the ground Sonja moved passed a fallen Nova Cat Cougar OmniMech, the thirty-five ton Mech had been destroyed during the battle. Uncommon within the Nova Cat Touman the techs had been instructed to strip it for parts and weapons and leave the rest it, and its warrior, had seen their last days serving the Clan. Observing the Techs for several minutes she was happy with their progress and moved on through the battlefield she was near the point she had entered this battle she could see familiar rock formations as well as further wreckage. The tech team nor the Nova Cat security teams had pushed through this area yet, technically there should be no danger in this area, there could be munitions that had not exploded when fired or troops that had been cut off from their units in the region.
From her left Sonja heard a low warning growl turning slowly she was stunned to see a female nova cat looking down at her. She knew it was impossible there were no nova cats on New Aega there was no food source for the big cats to survive. Looking at the animal which continued to growl at her but she didn't feel threatened, even if it were real, the animal's poisonous mane still was still down. Only when nova cats felt threatened or were ready to strike that mane stood on end giving the cat its name. “What is your problem girl?†She asked quietly moving closer to the cat which continued to growl. As she approached the nova cat turned disappearing behind a group of rocks Sonja followed slowly cautiously moving around the rocks there ahead was a male bull, like the nova cat it couldn't be here there was no grass to feed it, she knew it was symbolic of something although right now she didn't know what. The nova cat walked around the bull growling much louder as the two animals sized each other up before the attack, quickly they were engaged the nova cat's mane standing on end immediately as it jumped into action attacking the bull. The bigger powerful bull lowered its horns knocking the nova cat back before charging forwards at the cat on the defensive the nova cat jumped up onto its hind legs striking out at the bull knocking it back.
Both animals were a little battered by their encounter but they each seemed to have had enough. Suddenly from no-where a star, a Cameron Star, fell from the sky breaking up the two animals. Both paced around the star but it seemed to turn as they did blocking the path. The nova cat pulled back as the star and bull faded to nothing, with no sign either had been there, Sonja moved forward seeing a piece of green armour only a few pieces long picking it up she felt the cold metal against her hand turning it slightly she saw a line of letters and numbers “NC132†there were more but they had been blown away when the armour had been severed from the unit it had once been attached to. Sonja knew she could check the numbers but she also knew that this was an armour fragment from the Joust she had fought when she arrived. Slipping it into her vineer bag she moved on following the nova cat again she found the animal with a pride of other nova cats. The battle hardened nova cat was welcomed back into its pride accepted beside the most senior of the pride but something seemed wrong Sonja could see the nova cat was not right. After not long with the pride the female nova cat walked away from the others as they faded away like the Cameron Star and the bull. Sonja searched the area for clues to what she was seeing and why seeing the ground near where the pride had been she saw the distinctive foot prints of a Shadow Cat OmniMech she knew then that this was where she had arrived on New Aega bending down she scooped up a handful of earth placing it in her vineer bag, there were reasons for all of this she knew. Looking around she saw the nova cat had not faded away like the others instead it had continued away far from where the pride had been fending for itself as darkness closed in all around it. Sonja could see the animal taking body blow after blow she wanted to step in but knew that was not what was supposed to happen. Instead the scene continued and the bull returned through the darkness for a moment Sonja expected the fight to resume however instead the bull led the nova cat through the darkness back towards Sonja. The two animals looked to her acknowledging her presence before fading to nothing.
Sonja Rosse sunk to her knees aware that she had encountered a vision something she had never been blessed with before. Visions were sacred to Nova Cats she knew this one was personal it was not something that would shape her entire Clan but something that she needed to understand and see through wherever it led her.
St Ives Compact Offensive
Third St Ives/Capellan Confederation War
Indicass, Capellan Confederation
11th October 3090
In an effort to show that the St Ives Compact was not a spent force the Third St Ives Lancers and the Third St Ives Janissaries Regiments launch an attack on Indicass engaging the Fifth Capellan Armoured Cavalry the two St Ives units force the Capellan unit into retreat liberating the occupied world. On Indicass they find the St Ives government officials and law enforcement officers have all been arrested and imprisoned indicating the treatment received by other St Ives officials on occupied worlds.
Flag Office, FSS Alexander Davion
SLDF Task Force, Unnamed system
Crucis March, Federated Suns
16th October 3090
Along with the SLS Mopelia Island, the Eighty-Third Special Operations Battalion and the First Royal Black Watch Regimental Brigade the AFFS High Command had insisted that a Reinforced Battalion of the First Davion Guards RCT and the FSS Alexander Davion, a Davion III-class Destroyer, accompany the First Prince on his planned strike on the Taurian's Omega Six unit.
As First Lord of the Star League Defence Force Victor Steiner-Davion had named both the First Davion Guards troopers, the Alexander Davion and her crew as SLDF Allied forces for the duration of this mission each member of the AFFS involved had been asked to take the oath of the Star League Defence Force and would be eligible for continued SLDF service after the conflict. Should the Taurian's discover their presence among the the SLDF task force he could 'simply' show them the paperwork and hopefully quickly brush it under the carpet, although he knew that neither the SLDF's deep strike within the Taurian Concordat or the AFFS presence among them would go down well once this mission was made public. Victor had weighed up the pros and cons of these actions and no action, the facts were simple, go ahead with this strike possibly cause a diplomatic incident which he could hopefully navigate his way through or face an all out war with the Nova Cats which neither his Federated Suns Outback worlds or the SLDF were prepared for.
Looking over the SLIC and DMI reports the evidence was clear someone within the Taurian Government had been supporting Omega Six. He didn't believe that Protector Martens-Calderon was capable of, or foolish enough, to make such a decision which meant that someone within on Taurus was pulling strings without his knowledge. Before he had left New Avalon he had ordered the heads of the DMI and MIIO to make sure that Federated Suns worlds along the Taurian border were fully briefed on the possibility of a Taurian counter-attack aimed at the Federated Suns because of these actions. He'd also ordered the AFFS Admiralty to move some additional capital assets into the area. As a result the FSS Sarah Davion had been moved from Defiance to June joining the FSS Andrew Redburn which was already stationed along the Taurian border. The FSS Zibler and FSS Crucis March would also be directed to the area but they were at least three weeks away from being on station. Victor's task force would leave the Federated Suns by the end of the month then passing through abandoned or uninhabited systems they would travel through the Taurian Concordat meeting up with a Nova Cat force on the way plenty opportunity for the Taurians to discover them, plenty opportunity for someone to over-react and all of this blow up in his face.
The door chime went taking him from his thoughts looking up Victor called for the door to open stepping through the door was General Katya Christifori. She was a striking woman Victor had to admit Archer Christifori was a lucky man, although Victor was very happy with Danai and thanked every star shining down on him for his life with her he could still appreciate beauty, Katya was more than a pretty face. “Sir, can I have a moment?†She asked remaining near the door.
“Of course, save me from this paper work?†He joked as she entered the door closing behind her. In her hand he noticed a folded piece of paper, he wondered if that was for him but decided not to push for it, if she wished to give it to him he would wait for that moment.
“Sire†she said more formally stepping forward nervously.
“Take a seat Katya†he ordered her trying to make her feel more at ease.
“Sire, this is strange for me. Please know first that before we left New Avalon I forwarded this message†she said raising the piece of paper slowly “to Commanding-Admiral David Natale, as is the correct SLDF procedure in such matters, however at this present moment you are my senior officer and have a right to know.â€
“Of course, I am sure you have done what is correct.†Victor said wondering where this was going.
“Sir†she said again holding out the piece of paper “I would like to inform you that once this mission is complete I will be tendering my resignation from the Star League Defence Force. I will of course continue to complete all my duties to my best ability until then.†She said as Victor accepted the noted unfolding it slowly. It said almost exactly what she had just said.
“Would you like to discuss your reasons General?†He asked she was nowhere near past her prime Victor guessed she was in her fifties by now but given modern medicine she was as fit as someone ten to fifteen years her junior. Routinely people served into their late seventies and often beyond.
“I think I've given enough†Katya said bluntly. She was right of course she had served beyond the minimum for any Star League Defence Force officer even given her position she was not irreplaceable. “I think my family has given enough. First it was Archer with the First Brigade, then it was the First Division, then we were both in positions that needed attention†she said moving on he could see the frustration and possibly a little anger in her as she described the life she had lived. “And now Archer has retired but I'm still gallivanting across the Inner Sphere and beyond for duty. Well I've had enough I want to live a life enjoy having a husband and a home before things end, you understand that?†She asked he could see the pleading in her eyes.
“Yes, I do General, I most definitely do “this is not the easiest of lives.†He admitted “I remember Morgan Hasek-Davion saying something very similar to what you just said once†just before Task Force Serpent had left Morgan had longed for a more settled life. The end of the Clan War had brought that for him but duties as the reborn Star League's first Commanding-General had brought him back to travel rapidly. Victor had seen the strain on Archer Christifori as well as time had gone on, the job of Commanding-General was not the easiest always pulled or pushed in one direction or another he guessed being Head of Intelligence was probably just the same. He couldn't hold her and didn't plan to try, she had done her duty to the Star League and the Lyran Commonwealth before it she deserved time to do her duty to herself. “I accept your resignation General, I am quite glad you came infact.†He said smiling slightly “when we reach the Taurian Concordat the Eighty-Third Special Operations Battalion will be breaking off from us and heading to Althea's Choice. They need to make a good show of searching that world for further involvement of the Taurians in the attack on the First Royal ComGuard Brigade.†He explained she nodded she knew the plan, she had helped write it, “I wish for you to command that group.â€
“Sir, I plan to do my duty to its full until the end of my service†she protested.
“I am aware†he said raising his hand “and I believe that the Eighty-Third could quite happily put on a good show on Althea's Choice without you. However I want every Taurian in the area focused on Althea's Choice wondering what is going on. Having the Head of the Star League Intelligence Corps direction efforts should provide plenty of distraction allowing for our force to slip passed, at least I hope so.â€
“You'd like me to knock on some doors that the Taurians don't want touched?â€
“Diplomatically†Victor said carefully “your presence there General will be the perfect faint to our hammer and allow us to slip passed unseen.â€
“I'm sure the Taurians have some customs violations that need explored for suspected links. Or perhaps they are missing some of the correct paperwork.†Katya suggested seeing where he was directing having the Taurians scrambling to cover themselves should keep their eyes away from the stars above and hopefully away from the main SLDF force.
“Thank you General for accepting this duty and for your long term of service†Victor said raising to his feet extending his hand. Katya accepted and shook his hand then came to a full parade stance as she saluted in classic Star League style. Victor returned the salute and then nodded to her allowing her to leave which she did crisply and without another word. Having her leave the SLDF was a loss but an understandable one. One of these days Victor wondered if he would be the one exiting in such a fashion or if he would leave in a more 'classic' style of the office of First Prince. He knew for a fact that if he did leaving in a 'classic' fashion Danai would kill him but if that were the case he couldn't really balm her.
Capellan Confederation offensive
Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
28th October 3090
Beating aside defences at Vakarel, Gouderak and Umka the Capellan Confederation makes a direct assault on Canopus supported by three WarShips the Death Commandos and the Warrior Houses Hiritsu and Dai Da Chi. Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao had ordered the Magistracy brought under the Confederation's heel no matter the cost. Unfortunately for the Capellans the Magistracy was ready for the Confederation's reaction as the CCSS Chancellor's Pride, a Thera-class Carrier, and the CCSS Aphrodite, an Impavido-class Destroyer, jumped into the system the MCS Canopus, a Feng Huang 2-class Cruiser manufactured by the Capellan Confederation launched fighters to oppose them. At the same time five Vengeance DC-class Pocket WarShips detached from nearby JumpShips showing Canopus hardly lacked defences.
As the two WarShips and their fighters tried eliminate the Canopian defenders the Capellan ground forces tried to reach Canopus only to find three further Vengence DC Pocket WarShips raising from the ground. Despite having three Lung Wang P2-class Pocket WarShips with them the Capellan onsite commander did not believe they could land on Canopus without heavy, to extreme, casualties. Instead the Capellan ground forces turned around and forced their way back to the jump point.
Seeing the Capellans were in retreat the MCS Canopus and the remaining two Vengence DCs fell back allowing the invaders a clear escape. Instead of retreating completely the Capellan forces retreated only as far as Vakarel and Gouderak completing the conquest of these worlds.
With the Capellans distracted the St Ives Compact attempted to retake Denbar however a strong Capellan defence caused severe damage to the Roman's Mounted Fusiliers Regiment. The St Ives Compact unit held the Capellan Confederation forces up but they mostly searched Denbar for survivors of the First St Ives Lancers which were last seen fighting on the world along with Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao. After five days on the world the remaining Battalion of Roman's Mounted Fusiliers retreated with Melissa Allard-Liao still missing.
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Oriente Protectorate Raid-in-Force
Former Free Worlds League
3rd November 3090
With the Capellan Confederation's focus on the St Ives Compact and the Magistracy of Canopus the Oriente Protectorate take advantage of the situation launching a raid in force on the worlds of Deschanes, Kanata, Ryerson and Xantha III. Only on Ryerson do they encounter serious resistance from Laurel's Legion Regiment. The First Fusiliers of Oriente Brigade conducted a hover-drop on-top of the Capellan's main base of operations unfortunately Laurel's Legion were not within their barracks. While this did give the First Fusiliers a ready to use base of operations it also meant that Laurel's Legion could launch retaliation strikes. For three weeks the Legion continued to attack the First Fusiliers however without support eventually the troops had no option other than surrender into Oriente custody securing the system for the Oriente Protectorate.
Draconis Combine Assaults
Shimosuwa, Rasalhague Dominion
15th November 3090
Following the successful liberation of the world of Gram from the Rasalhague Dominion and the destruction of Clan Ghost Bear's Twelfth Bear Chevaliers Cluster all Rasalhague Dominion units were on their highest alert level. When the DCS Draconis Rift jumped into the system the 332nd Assault Cluster stood on full alert the Kyushu-class Frigate deployed four Nekohono'o-class DropShips. None of the four DropShips carried Mechs however the Draconis Rift was able to carry an entire Regiment in her cargo hold. For seven days the Ghost Bears prepared for the Draconis Combine WarShip and her deadly cargo when the Draconis Rift finally did arrive the defenders were surprised as swarms of aerospace fighters dived into the atmosphere. It had been well known that the Draconis Combine had made some of their Kyushu-class Frigates into carriers but the defenders hadn't expected a WarShip with four assault DropShips to deploy aerospace fighters instead of BattleMechs from its bay.
The 332nd Assault Cluster's own Aerospace Trinary raised to engage the attacking Draconis Combine troops finding that each followed a very similar design, almost as if they were the same base machine, each was small no more than thirty-five tons in weight the fast lightweight craft were full of surprises as the first volley from the Combine craft included nearly twenty Arrow IV Missiles modified for use in air-to-air engagements. Immediately half of the Ghost Bear fighters were destroyed the Ghost Bear counter-attack claimed nearly thirty Combine fighters as nearly a third of the Draconis Combine craft fell from the sky.
As the remaining Ghost Bears returned to refuel and rearm the remaining Combine craft returned to the Frigate while several Small Craft took advantage of the Ghost Bear's lack of air cover and dived through the atmosphere depositing several squads of Battle Armour troopers. Detected by the planetary sensors the Ghost Bears remaining four Clusters of ground troops began searching the jungles of Shimosuwa while the remaining Aerospace Star prepare to defend against a second round of aerospace fighter attacks.
Instead however the Combine troops had a completely different surprise for the Ghost Bears far from losing a third of their number in the initial attack an entire company of Stinger LAM Mechs walked from the woods around the Ghost Bear landing strip. Firing inferno missiles the remaining star of Ghost Bear OmniFighters were burned before one could get off the ground. At the same time the Ghost Bears hunting the Combine Battle Armour found themselves the target of near continuous Arrow IV missiles armed with Inferno fuel. As the ground forces took more and more damage the remaining aerospace fighters converted into more BattleMechs adding their firepower to that of the Battle Armour troopers and original group of Stinger LAMs.
Within six hours the remains of the Ghost Bear's 332nd Assault Cluster surrendered to the Draconis Combine troops and with them they surrendered the world of Shimosuwa. Finally with hostilities to an end the liberating regiment was named as the newly formed First Yokosuma Special Naval Landing Force (SNLF), named for a unit from Ancient Japan on Terra, permanently based on board the DCS Draconis Rift the unit has shown the utility of LAM units and given the Draconis Combine a whole new idea for their Kyushu-class vessels.
Grand Melee, Philip Drummond City
New Barcella, Nova Cat's Den
22nd November 3090
Following her vision on New Aega Star Commander Sonja Rosse traveled back to New Barcella, in some ways she felt that she spent most of her life traveling between the stars. On New Barcella Oathmaster Zane Carns confirmed to the rest of the Clan that Sonja had, in his opinion, experienced a vision. With the Oathmaster's confirmation Sonja's vision placed her on the path towards power within the Nova Cat Clan. Despite her birth, or her actions to date, a warrior that was blessed with visions was destined for greatness within a Clan so wrapped up in its mystic trappings. With Zane's support Sonja was sponsored to the Oathmaster's Grand Melee.
The Grand-Melee was a yearly challenge within Clan Nova Cat to choose the next Oathmaster. Only the best warriors, those who knew the Remembrance like it was their own memory and those who were blessed with visions entered. Most years the Oathmaster defended their position, only once had an Oathmaster voluntarily stepped aside leaving an undefended position, this year was no different from tradition Zane Carns looked set to defend his position defeating all in battle and in the knowledge tests set down by the Clan Council. Sonja Rosse had struggled in both the physical tests and some of the knowledge tests however many could see her raw potential and few were surprised to see her in the final round against Zane Carns.
After holding the post for twenty-seven years Zane knew that his visions were not as strong, not as accurate as they had previously been, he had been lucky to have a Khan who had such strong visions that his were not required as often. In Sonja he saw someone with the youthful spirit that Clan Nova Cat needed in a loss that many would question in the future Zane Carns' term as Oathmaster ended and the new rein of Sonja Rosse began. Due to her lack of combat experience Sonja was named as newly named Galaxy Commander Zane Carn's aide within Alpha Galaxy. Many within the Clan are glad to see that Zane's influence would still be strong with the office of Oathmaster while Sonja is glad to have Zane's insights close at hand.
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The end of 3090 - on the faction list I will be attaching WarShips active for the end of 3090. If anyone would like an up to date map for the end of 3090 it is also available just send me a PM.
SLDF/Nova Cat Joint assault
Davetal III, Taurian Concordat
1st December 3090
The Davetal system was a rare one in human occupied space with two habitable worlds orbiting a single star. The binary planets of the system Davetal II and Davetal III were smaller than most habitable worlds but both were completely habitable and orbited a common barycentre. Both planets orbited around each other over approximately a month and were separated by around one million kilometres.
Clan Nova Cat's Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft Storm had jumped into the outer edge of the system beyond the planet's two gas giants and its asteroid belt. Burning slowly in system the craft had found that most traffic moved around the two planets and between the two main jump points above and below the system's star, none of this was unusual however the common orbit Davetal II and Davetal III did open some interesting challenges and opportunities. Identifying three “pirate†points in the system the Storm transmitted its findings to the main assault force.
Two days after the Storm had entered the system the FSS Alexander Davion and the SLS Mopelia Island led the first group of JumpShips in at one of the pirate points not far from Davetal IV while the Nova Cat vessels Path of Honour and Principle, two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers, emerged from another pirate point escorting Upsilon Galaxy on board several Nova Cat JumpShips near Davetal I. Neither the FSS Alexander Davion or SLS Mopelia Island faced serious opposition at their entry point, the Nova Cat vessels were not so lucky. Jumping in the Nova Cat's Path of Honour along with its four attached DropShips and their cargo the Second Nova Cat Titans Cluster became the Nova Cat's first casualties as the Heavy Cruiser struck a nuclear armed space mine that had been missed by the Storm. Immediately attacked by aerospace fighters from a hidden base on Davetal I the 274th Battle Cluster became the Nova Cat's next casualties as their DropShips were cut apart before they could leave their JumpShips.
Angered by these losses the Principle avenged its fallen sister ship firstly by wiping out the Taurian aerospace assets with its massed Naval Autocannons and then by bombarding Davetal I until no life signs were detected at the aerospace fighter's launch site. Fortunately Davetal I was too small and too warm to host a native civilian population limiting the casualties to military ones. However the Principle's assault showed exactly what the Inner Sphere had feared ever since the return of the WarShip fleets. In some ways the Smoke Jaguar attack on the world of Turtle Bay, with the complete destruction of the City of Edo, had shown the Inner Sphere what none of them wished more worlds turned to cinder like those that had fallen during the First and Second Succession Wars.
Witnessing these attacks from long range the FSS Alexander Davion and SLS Mopelia Island moved within range of Davetal II and Davetal III the binary planets were at the mercy of the invaders lacking any sort of Capital ship. Arriving first SLDF instantly gained aerospace superiority over both worlds. On the 8th December 3090 the Principle escorting the remains of the Nova Cat Upsilon Galaxy and saKhan Michael Drummond's own command cluster arrived at Davetal III. “Hail them†First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion ordered from the command bridge of the FSS Alexander Davion. “This is First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion to Nova Cat force, I request you follow the agreed plan of attack?†He said after seeing the destruction of the Path of Honour and the Nova Cat response against Davetal I's rocky surface he was unsure exactly what the Clansmen had planned.
“These dezgra used nuclear weapons against us!†The voice replied “I saKhan Michael Drummond vow that these Taurians will pay with their blood, there will be no batchall.â€
“Neg, there will not be†Victor replied agreeing they would not cut down their forces against the Taurian's rogue unit, no honourable battle. “However, I will not allow you to use capital weapons against the population of this system they are not all to blame for these problems, Quiaff?†He pointed out using the Clan interrogative to make sure the Clan saKhan knew he wanted an answer there were several moments of silence before the Nova Cat answer came through.
“Aff†the Nova Cat admitted after a few moments “we will follow the plan.†saKhan Michael Drummond replied “we have detected Taurian military transmissions on both planets. I suggest that your forces land on Davetal II and we shall take Davetal III?â€
“Agreed†Victor said “with one modification I request that the Principle provide naval protection and aerospace fighter support for my forces this is a joint operation and I think we would benefit from the Principle's experience should we need naval support. The SLS Mopelia Island will be made available to Clan Nova Cat's assault forces while the Alexander Davion will provide support for both forces should it be needed.†He suggested the last thing he wanted to see was the Nova Cat's Principle engaging ground targets again, he knew the Mopelia Island and Alexander Davion would only fire on a planet after being given a direct order, the Nova Cat Heavy Cruiser was an unknown.
“I agree to your request First Prince Davion†Michael Drummond replied using Victor's Federated Suns title instead of his SLDF position clearly showing that he respected Victor for the relationship that the Nova Cats and Federated Suns shared not because of the Star League Defence Force.
Soon after SLDF and Nova Cat forces were descending on their allocated targets as they did the defenders moved to oppose them. The SLDF landed together in one solid mass the First Royal Black Watch BattleMech Regiment fronting three full Armour Regiments and an entire Battle Armour Regiment. Leading from the front piloting his Dire Wolf OmniMech, Prometheus, First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion led the attack on the two Battalions of BattleMechs supported by several conventional vehicle and infantry units. Within the Taurian Concordat forces the SLDF troops fought against several companies worth of Hipparch Cavalry Tanks and Ignis Infantry Tanks not seen in combat since the fall of the Rim Worlds Republic. These units designed to hunt down conventional infantry forces struggle to fight off the First Royal Black Watch's exclusively equipped Battle Armour Troopers. The Mech force was something completely different however instead of periphery relics each of the two Battalions of BattleMechs were of a Clan design painted in one of the Clan's favoured camouflage. Because of the frequency and firepower of the Clan designs the First Royal Black Watch, and its purely Inner Sphere technology base, took heavy attacks overcoming the Taurians as they fell back deeper and deeper within a fortified encampment.
Unfortunately for the Taurians several things counted against them, firstly the SLDF outnumbered them in BattleMechs two-to-one, they had five or six times as many armoured vehicles and complete aerospace superiority. With the Principle hanging overhead the Taurians had nowhere to run instead of surrendering the periphery troops fought to the last taking many of the Black Watch with them but in the end they had no real chance.
On Davetal III the battle was just as tough the Veteran Nova Cat troopers led by their Clan's saKhan had followed a different approach than that of the SLDF. While the SLDF hit like a sledgehammer the Nova Cats broke into their individual Clusters striking at the Taurian troops at the helm of his Blood Asp OmniMech Star Colonel Grayson once again headed the 450th Assault Cluster. Although his unit was part of the Nova Cat's Alpha Galaxy the Khan had sent them along with Upsilon Galaxy to give Grayson a command for this battle Michael Drummond had given them a support role in the battle. Grayson knew that the Nova Cat saKhan not only did not like freeborn warriors but he did not like the fact that Grayson had been the one to uncover the truth about the attack on the First ComGuard Regimental Brigade. On New Aega Michael Drummond had his own “playground†where he could send and lead Nova Cats into battle against the SLDF troops present he had intentionally kept them bottled up within the trading post on that world to give the Nova Cats live fire targets. Grayson had also been informed by his father, via a Watch Operative imbedded in Upsilon Galaxy, that Michael Drummond had intentionally allowed Nova Cat ammunition and supplies to be captured by the SLDF troops on New Aega allowing them to continue to fight. The Watch Operative did not have information for Grayson on why Khan Canin Rosse had allowed the fighting to go on as long as he had but he guessed his father must have had a valid reason.
Now on New Aega he could ignore the politics and forget the words spoken during negotiations with the Federated Suns now piloting his Blood Asp he could see the enemy he was against. He could engage and destroy him and end the threat instead of dancing around the answers. Moving over the rocky terrain of Davetal III Grayson searched for Omega Six targets ever since they had landed the Nova Cats had pushed the Taurian defenders. So far both sides had taken a lot of damage but the Nova Cats were winning the battle through the air a Deimos Assault OmniMech flew through the air landing near his Blood Asp. Grayson knew of only one of the eighty-five ton OmniMechs that were not possessed by Clan Snow Raven, glancing at his communication system he noticed the waiting call “Star Captain, welcome to the battle.†He said activating the system.
“Star Colonel†Katrine Nova Cat said greeted him in return “is there a reason we, as the strongest unit assigned to this attack, are assigned to this position of the battle?â€
“Aff, the saKhan has decided that this is where we should be.†Grayson said the 450th Assault Cluster had been tasked by the saKhan moving along behind the Nova Cat lines. So far they had struck at several of the trailing Omega Six units but they had missed out on some of the heaviest, most honourable fighting.
“We should be at the front†Katrine said angrily “our Cluster should have been the first to engage.â€
“There was no batchall†Grayson pointed out keeping his frustration under check he felt the same as her but wouldn't show it “the saKhan made this bid, he makes the decision on when we attack.â€
“Surely you can smell them Star Colonel, we should be allowed to strike at them.â€
“We will soon enough Katrine, let us take the high ground and prepare, the time will soon be here.†He said launching his Blood Asp into the air on its jump jets, moments later Katrine's Deimos followed him onto the higher level. Immediately they detected several Clan Mechs none painted in Nova Cat camouflage. “It looks like you have gotten your wish. 450th Assault Cluster, break in attack.†He ordered turning his Blood Asp's torso towards an enemy Mad Cat II BattleMech immediately opening fire with both the Blood Asp's torso mounted extended-range particle cannons. One struck the Mad Cat II's torso staggering the Mech back slightly the other shot missed the assault Mech. The Mad Cat II's counter attack was a pair of Gauss Rifle shots back due to the range, and no doubt the pilot's lack of skill, both shots missed Grayson's Mech. The Nova Cat MechWarrior smiled knowing his force could not lose as he opened up on the Mad Cat with further particle cannon fire as he closed on the enemy Mech. Across the Taurian line the Mechs opposing the Nova Cats faced not only Grayson and Katrine but now the entire 450th Assault Cluster as the eager Nova Cats turned on their enemies. “Do not break Zellbrigen unless they do.†Grayson ordered seeing more Mechs raising to engage the Taurians Grayson noticed one of the enemy Mechs was down already. Another pair of Gauss Rifle shots flew passed Grayson's Blood Asp followed by a flight of LRMs that exploded all across the front of his Mech.
Glancing at the distance between the Mechs Grayson smiled as he triggered the Blood Asp's secondary torso weapons at the same time as the particle cannons. Exiting the torso weapon mounts along with the particle cannon fire was a pair of plasma cannons some when, Clan Star Adder had first developed the weapons configuration, had commented on the Blood Asp had “Plasma PPCs†when both weapons were in range at the same time. The Mad Cat II was hit by all four weapons at the same time as well as losing nearly two tons of armour the Mech had to deal with more heat build up than the assault Mech built-up on firing all its weapons. The MechWarrior fought his BattleMech all the way as it lost its balance and tumbled to the ground Grayson felt no sympathy as he triggered the Blood Asp's Streak Short Range Missile system and quad arm mounted Heavy Medium Lasers. The weapons fire tore into the downed assault Mech one of its shoulder mounted Long Range Missile Launchers exploded into a million to pieces adding to the MechWarrior's woes. In an act of surrender the Mad Cat II pilot stopped trying to raise their Mech to its feet instead pointing its arms towards the ground and shutting the Mech down. “Surrender accepted on the Mad Cat II, no-one shoot it.†Grayson ordered over a general frequency ensuring that both sides could hear it, at least the MechWarrior that had surrendered would know they would not be target of any further attacks. Moments later the Blood Asp staggered as a Heavy Large Laser struck the Mech's left side twisting the Mech at the torso Grayson sighted a twenty-five ton Solitaire the fast light Mech sped into sight looking like it carried its main weapon on its shoulder.
With his Blood Asp already running hot Grayson fired on the the light Mech with only the SRMs and one of the particle cannons adding in a plasma cannon in an attempt to slow the Mech. While the Solitaire moved too quickly for the PPC and plasma blasts the SRMs tracked the Mech exploding all over the light Mechs's. Because Grayson's weapons had missed a second Heavy Large Laser followed by two Heavy Medium Lasers ripping away another ton of armour from the OmniMech's leg as the Heavy Large Laser struck. One of the Heavy Medium Lasers burned over the Blood Asp's torso burning away more armour somewhere the laser found a weak spot punching through the Blood Asp's torso shattering one of the OmniMech's Double Heat Sinks.
As coolant fluid leaked to the ground Grayson twisted his Mech's torso tracking the lighter Mech blasting at the Solitaire with his Blood Asp's Heavy Medium Lasers. The silver beams burned over the Solitaire burning through the hip joint on the left leg severing the entire leg from the Mech's body. The light Mech traveling at over one hundred kilometres per hour completely lost its balance as the leg fell away from its twenty-five ton body. The Mech tumbled forwards slamming into the ground, the force of the impact and the speed the Mech was traveling at tore the Heavy Large Laser nestled on its shoulder completely off the Solitaire's body as the Mech flipped though the air. As it rolled the Mech's cockpit was crushed by the force of the impact killing the warrior ending the Mech's fight permanently. Twisting the Blood Asp's torso back in line Grayson saw that all the other Taurian Mechs in the area were down his communication system squeaked into life “Star Colonel, saKhan Drummond's Mech is down. He is calling for immediate back-up at the front-line.†One of his troopers reported the fact that Drummond was down but alive was only a good thing in Grayson's eyes.
“Then there is no time to waste†Grayson replied “450th move out.†He ordered the cluster eager for further combat didn't need told twice and quickly turned towards the thickest of the fighting. By the end of the day the Nova Cats had completely secured Davetal III and called in the Watch to begin an investigation into where the Taurians had gained so much Clan technology from. On Davetal II a similar investigation was beginning but this time by the Star League Intelligence Corps as the SLDF began its own investigations.
With the fighting over First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion informed the Nova Cats that he would be ready to turn the system over to Taurian authorities and escort the Nova Cats clear of Taurian space within two days, saKhan Michael Drummond however had other ideas, the Nova Cat saKhan informed the First Lord and Taurus, via HPG, that Davetal III had been won by Clan Nova Cat in combat and would be retained by Clan Nova Cat as one of its holdings. The Taurian Protector Erik Martens-Calderon already angry that the SLDF and Nova Cats had operated within the Taurian Protectorate behind his back informed saKhan Drummond that the Nova Cats would face the full force of the Taurian Concordat should they remain and his people would use every weapon at their disposal if needed. Drummond replied that should the Taurians be rash and deploy nuclear weapons against the Nova Cats again then Taurus would be forfeit and to back up this threat the WarShips Santin West, Clarkston and Tenacity all jumped into the system bringing with them the Nova Cat Rangers and Nova Cat Renegades Clusters of Kappa Provisional Galaxy and the Third Watch Cluster, the special operations unit of Clan Nova Cat's Watch Intelligence Operation, which had trained with the Federated Suns Rabid Fox units.
With the Nova Cats apparently there to stay the Taurian Protector requested a permanent SLDF presence in the system as well. Naming Davetal II as an SLDF holding Protector Erik Martens-Calderon demanded that the SLDF appropriately defend the world. Victor Steiner-Davion announced that the SLS Mopelia Island would be remaining in system while Nineteenth Cavalry Regiment and the Fourth Royal Pathfinders Battle Armour Battalion, both of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade, would be deployed to the world as a permanent garrison force. While the Taurian Protector promises to support the SLDF forces as much as he can and he warns saKhan Drummond that Nova Cat forces can expect regular raids by the Taurians and should they be able he will order his military to recapture the world.
First Ceti Hussars RCT Basecamp
Eridanus Continent, Achernar
Draconis March, Federated Suns
22nd December 3090
Leftenant Fredrick Davion, son of First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Duke of Marlette, stood nerviously at the door of his commander's office. This was his first unit position since leaving NAIS he'd spent nearly three months traveling to Achernar to meet with the First Ceti Hussars RCT. He would be the first member of the Davion family to serve with a Ceti Hussars Regiment. His twin sister Sarah Davion had chosen to join the Federated Suns government but he had chosen to follow his father into the AFFS. “Come in†Vice Admiral Elias Briggs, the commander of the Ceti Hussars, called out from inside the office. Fredrick stepped into the room unlike his father he was tall and had inherited the darker hair and skin-tone of his mother in his uniform he was the poster-boy of the AFFS, in fact if it were not for his name he may have been, his parents had both vetoed a High Command plan to use Fredrick for such a campaign. Elias Briggs was a man in his late forties and had only recently taken command of the RCT “welcome to Achernar†Briggs said standing up.
“Thank you sirâ€
“I hope your journey was not too hard?â€
“Negative sir, Achernar isn't the easiest planet to get to but, I managed.†He said the main jump point to the planet was over one hundred days away while the pirate point Fredrick had used had still taken eleven days to reach. “An impressive sight above†he said quietly referring to the FSS Gold Lance, the RCT's Robinson Block III-class Transport, which had been permanently assigned to the unit.
“Yes indeed, the First Ceti Hussars have been lucky to gain the craft. However we have not been the only ones so lucky to gain gifts?†He said knowingly Fredrick had arrived with a very special BattleMech.
“I was one of six to gain the Mech sir, its an experimental Rifleman the RFL-X4, hopefully should the testing go to plan it will be the first of a new production class of Rifleman. I have a General Motors Tech to cover the additional maintenance costs and additional ammunition for the main guns.â€
“Two Hyper Assault Gauss (HAG) Rifles†Elias Briggs said quietly “very exotic technology to be placed in the hands of a newly graduated MechWarrior, Leftenant.â€
“I was one of the highest placed officers of my year†Fredrick protested.
“I am aware. I am also aware that you would not have received that Mech without your name.â€
“I will differ in opinion with you, sir.†Fredrick said respectfully standing fully to attention.
“Very good, Leftenant, understand me son I respect your father and I respect your family.†Elias Briggs “I will respect you when you earn my trust. Until then you are a new recruit in a flashy, unproven BattleMech.â€
“Yes, sir†Fredrick replied curtly as he promised himself that he would prove his new CO wrong.
“Good, you will get your new lance assignment tomorrow morning, we defend San Marino Spaceport and the Achernar BattleMechs plant as immediate concerns in this system. Luckily for us it takes so damned long to get to this planet most people don't bother.â€
“I will familiarize myself with the planet sir.â€
“A very good idea†he said extending his hand shaking Fredrick's “welcome to the First Ceti Hussars Leftenant†Elias Briggs said finally smiling.
“Thank you sir†Fredrick said he guessed that meant he had passed his new CO's welcoming test. Now all he had to was prove that he, and his new Mech, deserved a place within the unit.
Command Bunker, Castle Masters
Gibson, Principality of Gibson
Former Free Worlds League
29th December 3090
In the darkened Command Bunker deep within Castle Masters staff worked at various consoles but the room was dominated by a single figure. Standing over six foot tall the figure was dressed in a full red cloak and had what appeared to be a metal plate covering half of his bald skull. A figure dressed in all white approached the figure carefully. “Sire†the man said removing his glasses carefully “I regret to inform you that our Master has succumb to the illness that struck him down.†He said looking more at his removed glasses than the figure dressed in red.
“Did he say anything before he passed?†The figure asked in a deep voice.
“He spoke the same words he has for the last three days Lord Apollyon. He spoke of the need for a Third Transfer and an end to the corruption at the heart of everything.â€
“A Third Transfer?†Apollyon asked quietly knowing what it was but wondering if the Doctor knew.
“Yes†the doctor said nervously “the first being the original Star League Defence Force's rise to power with the backing of the Terran Hegemony only to be broken by the corruption of those who wished to see it fail. The second has been the steady rise of the Second Star League Defence Force which has failed spectacularly to protect the people of the Inner Sphere. The Clans still exist, the Succession States fight their petty wars of aggression and the Star League does nothing. A Third Transfer would protect not only Terra but all of humanity. That is what our Master spoke of.â€
“Well spoken Doctor. We are the Manei Domini, We are the Hands of Our Master, We are the will of the Blessed Blake. We will be the saviours of all humanity. But first some blood will have to be spilled, can you live with that Doctor?â€
“Someone always dies, our Master died, it is a part of nature.†The doctor replied
“Good, we agree†he said turning to one of the staff within the bunker “send word to the Manei Atrocis they are to begin operations on receipt of this order.†He ordered turning to another “send word to the Thirteen and to Obeedah and Taussen, inform them that we will need them all, and that the time for the Third Transfer begins now.†He said turning away marching from the room “Our Master's and the Blessed Blake's Will! Will be done, we will have vengeance for the Word of Blake!â€
Hope you enjoy
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A small bonus - The Yokosuma
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/unit-profile-special-naval-landing-force-(first-yokosuma)/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/unit-profile-special-naval-landing-force-(first-yokosuma)/)
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Into 3091 my thanks to James Tanaga for the help with Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga
3091
Starliner One (Modified Sovetskii Soyuz-class Liner)
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
3rd January 3091
The Starliner One was ready to begin its second tour of the Inner Sphere. Although it had begun at Terra the true journey had begun at Thorin there more than three thousand passengers and a disarmed civilian Conquistador-class DropShip known as the ConquistadaVasho. The ship hailing from origins unknown was a late addition to the vessel's traveling complement and brought further pleasure options.
As it approached the jump point the Starliner One's maneuvering thrusters cut allowing the ship to drift the remainder of the way into the jump point. As the vessel came to a stop not far from the SLS Covenant the crew began the main priming sequence of the K-F Drive, just as the ship began to jump something exploded near the rear of the ship, before the ship disappeared in a fiery light.
Analysis from the SLS Covenant's sensors indicated the explosion had been a minor one and the vessel had completed a jump but after three weeks searching fifty-two surrounding systems neither the SLDF, LCAF or FWL found any sight of the missing vessel. Regardless of the vessel's fate Virgin Interstellar face multiple lawsuits from angry families who have lost people on board the vessel. The company continues to publish reports from the Starliner Two project and continues to run cargo and civilian transports around the Star League Protectorate but the failure of the Starliner One effectively kills any ambition that Virgin Interstellar has as a pioneering space transport company.
Press Conference, Imperial Hospital
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
10th January 3091
There was dozens of press reporters from across the Draconis Combine and beyond standing outside the Imperial Hospital in the Draconis Combine. As the announcer stepped up to the podium there was a brief statement “ladies and gentlemen, please allow me to introduce Warlord Minoru Kurita.†The man said stepping down after several moments as he disappeared Minoru Kurita appeared near the podium. Before the Warlord could step up however the familiar crack of a M42B Federated-Boeing Rifle system filled the air cutting down several of Minoru Kurita's aides and the Draconis Combine support staff. The lone gunman had attacked too soon to get the Warlord as his bodyguards dragged Minoru Kurita away but the would be assassin was not finished turning to his right firing several grenade launcher shots into a nearby Teppo Support Vehicle. As the grenades slammed into the seventy-five ton vehicle, doing negligible damage, the assassin turned around firing another shot into an approaching Kage Battle Armour suit the explosive stopped the suit in its tracks but didn't down the approaching trooper. Before the Kage could get near the assassin however a member of crew on-board the Teppo either panicked or decided that their enemy deserved a death worse than that the Kage could administer. From one of the Teppo's turrets a pair of light machine guns roared to life these weapons, designed to damage BattleMech armour, tore the unarmoured man to pieces.
Although the ISF were able to recover parts of the man and DNA there was no known matches in the database only the incriminating Federated Suns made rifle system. Several hours later Coordinator Vincent Kurita made the press announcement that Warlord Minoru Kurita had been intending to make, Vincent Kurita announces that his wife Duchess Tami Kurita has given birth for the second time to a healthy daughter which Vincent and Tami have named Emi. When why Minoru had been making the early announcement and where the Warlord now was Vincent informs them that Minoru had been doing Vincent a favour earlier and that now he had left New Samarkand on urgent family business.
Wolf's Dragoon Hiring Hall
Harlech, Romulus,
Outreach, Star League Protectorate
14th January 3091
Outside the Wolf's Dragoons main hiring hall on Outreach three Barouche Military Transports open fire on the hiring hall's main building with long range missiles and machine guns causing severe superficial damage. As a lance of Wolf's Dragoons Home Guard BattleMechs move in on the three vehicles all three set off detonation charges held in their cargo bays. The explosives are enough to completely flatten the east and central wings of the building crushing hundreds including General Kelly Yukinov and Michi Noketsuna. In the intern Colonel Sean Dorran, commander of Gamma Regiment, takes command of Outreach, the Wolf's Dragoons ground and naval forces and of the Seventh Kommando. Sean Dorran names Major Stacy Church, commander of the Wolf Spider Company, as the intern Intelligence chief and tasks her to investigate the attack.
Faraday-Tanaga Territory
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
19th January 3091
Commander of the Fire Mandrill search Star Captain Peter Tanaga, Sibko Adjutant of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga, kept his frustrations at bay, for it served no purpose to snap at a fellow clansman, even if he was a member of the Laborer Caste. Especially since the reason he and his fellow clansmen and women were here were not his fault. No, he thought idly. I will rip the head off that Troop Master. She foolishly led her sibko in a survival exercise into a damn hurricane! Oh, that bitch was going to pay for this, he thought with a feral look. Now, he had to find them, less the sibko of eighty-four ten-year old Warrior cadets die from their Troop Master’s incompetence.
While the rest of his Kindraa were either deep in the Faraday-Tanaga Compound, on board DropShips in orbit or helping to evacuate locals into their primary compound, where the genetic repository was being built, he and his volunteers were out in the middle of the hurricane to rescue the wayward cadets. Until their genetic repository was finished, what trueborn cadets and few freeborn allowed into their Warrior Caste were all they had for their future. That sentiment was shared with Cassandra Faraday and Jerold Danforth, the two leaders of Kindraa Faraday, who had ordered him to find the missing sibko.
The Anhur rocked hard to the left and right by the wind, kicking him out of his thoughts. “Pilot,†he spoke to the man piloting the craft. “What in Kerensky is happening!â€
“Sit tight Star Captain,†the other man spoke over the radio, his voice tight. Peter fought the urge to speak out at the man, he was a labourer by birth but now he flew Anhurs. Over the radio, he overheard the pilot tell the other aircraft pilots to continue the search and damn the consequences. They may not be of the warrior caste, but when the future of our Kindraa is at stake, these members of the lower castes stepped up; They were going into hell and back with us to rescue these children that meant nothing to them, he thought with pride. When he asked for volunteers for this crazy stunt, they all stepped forward.
Oh, he knew very well as a Warrior, he could have simply ordered them to help with the search. And by clan law, they had to. That was not the Faraday-Tanaga within the Kindraa, when one asks for aid, the others answer regardless of caste, personal philosophies and of their friendship or hatred to the Clan way.
A sudden lurch to the right caused him to concentrate on what was happening “Star Captain, Sigma Five Sixteen found them. We are on our way now.â€
“Aff,†he acknowledged the pilot. “Tell Cadet Natasha she is in command, not, repeat not, Troop Master Jennifer.†As the pilot acknowledged his order, he nodded his head to the two medics from the Scientists Caste and the lone warrior cadet sharing the back of the VTOL.
Not ten minutes later, the aircraft came upon the location of Sigma Fix Sixteen and the sibko. Already, three other Anhurs were on station, with more inbound to join them it was overkill for the task at hand but should there be casualties they would need all the help they could muster. Older cadets and the volunteers from the lower castes were already putting some of the younger cadets into Anhur Sigma Five Sixteen.
Once his aircraft landed, he led the other three out, over to where Cadet Natasha was with a younger cadet. Upon reaching her she immediately reported in “Star Captain, Troop Master Jennifer and nine cadets are still not accounted for. Cadet James, acting leader of the munchkins here, says since they landed he has had no contact with her, nor the sibko’s Patrol Eight, who were dropped down in this area.†The young woman, a teenaged girl really, pointed to a spot on a map. “This was the meeting point. Five munchkins have injuries, mostly light, a broken ankle and two broken legs from all the mud. One has a concussion though another appears to have some internal injuries. Suggest we evacuate them and continue our search Star Captain.â€
He nodded, pride showing in his face. The girl and the younger boy seemed to have everything in hand. “Suggestion granted Cadet. Get them home. My aircraft and the last three will look for the last patrol and their Troop Master. Medics help with the cadets here.†He put a hand on the young girl’s shoulder then. “Good job Natasha.†And his other on Cadet James’s. “You as well Cadet James.â€
Letting them go, he hurried over into his Anhur, and was in the sky in minutes, his shadow Cadet Leland with him. As they closed in on the drop point, the weather took a turn for the worse, as the VTOL shook violently every second. “Star Captain, Sigma Five Twenty-two reports lightning strike and severe damage their Anhur's electrical systems. Point Commander Yu and his Salamanders have been dropped off and Sigma Five Twenty-two is heading back to base.â€
“Aff,†he gruffly answered nature was still stronger than what man could build. Yu’s point was on a reconnaissance mission, scouting sites for future compounds when news of the missing sibko reached his point. Unlike the cadets, though, they were full warriors, and thus outside his command authority. But the fact they answered his call for aid, having to be picked up on the way, gave him a small smile.
Nearly an hour later, with no sign of the missing patrol, Loremaster Jacob Faraday chimed into Peter’s radio. “Peter Tanaga, bring home your boys and girls. We will look for them once the weather calms Quiaff?â€
“Neg, Loremaster,†Peter replied angrily how could the Loremaster or anyone expect him to agree his mission was not over. “Albiev-Tanaga Sibko’s Patrol Eight is still out there, along with Troop Master Jennifer.â€
“We know,†the voice of Cassandra Faraday, his Kindraa Leader, broke in his radio then surprising him he had not been aware Cassandra was in the loop. “You are ordered back to base, Peter, today's adventure is over. The second this damn storm passes, the entire touman will be out there looking for them.â€
“I have your word, Cassy,†he spoke to the Kindraa Leader, using her old sibko name.
“Aff old man,†came her solemn reply.
He sighed then. “All units, this is Star Captain Peter Tanaga, return to base. I repeat return to base. We will be back in the morning.†Just as his pilot confirmed the remaining two aircraft having responded to his orders, a different voice came in through his radio.
“This is Point Commander Yu. We have found them, repeat we have nine cadets, all are soaked, muddy and needing pickup. You won’t believe what these munchkins found. Over.†Peter grimaced at the use of the contraction, yet didn’t call attention to it. There is a time and place for everything, and right now was definitely not the time, nor place for something as minimal as that.
Cassandra’s voice broke into the radio. “Good job Point Commander. Pickup is inbound on your location what is the find, over?â€
“Some sort of buried factory. I dropped our beacon right on top of it.â€
Within ten minutes, the three VTOLs made it to the location, just as heavy wind was violently shaking them. As soon as the doors to the bay were opened, nine cold, wet, and muddy young boys and girls piled in. “We have the cadets. Lift off now. Get us the hell out of this storm pilot.†Without bothering to listen to the pilot’s reply, for the aircraft was lifting off the ground already, he turned to the cadets. Already Leland had the nine stripping out of their muddy and soaked clothes.
Two days later after the storm had cleared Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday walked through the mud. Around her, members of her Kindraa were in the process of digging up a mostly buried factory. At the moment, Point Commander Yu, being the one who found the children, was in operational command over the warriors scouting the inside of the factory.
The sound of an Anhur grabbed her attention. Hurrying over, she found a muddy, soaked, bruised, and topless woman of MechWarrior stock limping off the aircraft between Peter Tanaga and Cadet Leland, her hands bound with rope. This was Troop Master Jennifer, the woman who abandoned the sibko who relied on her didn’t even bother to look up, obviously disgraced.
Peter answered her questioning glare at the woman. “Cadet Leland found her bathing in a river eight klicks south, cleaning a wound in her right thigh.†That answered the limp. “She reported she was knocked off balance by a strong gust of wind and went tumbling into the river, getting separated from Patrol Eight. Odd it contradicts all nine reports from Patrol Eight, quiaff?â€
She wouldn’t bothering answering that. “Take this…filth…back to base. We will deal with her later.†Not even bothering to speak to the bound woman, she turned on her heel.
Roughly an hour later, Point Commander Yu reported to her. “It is a small factory, Kindraa Leader, built to produce Daedalus IndustrialMechs sometime prior to the Star League Civil War. It appears that Stefan Amaris had the Star League Engineering Corps build it to support the construction of the Star League's periphery ally.â€
“Daedalus IndustrialMechs, quiaff?†The design, though ancient, would be quite the boon for both her Kindraa and the Rim Collection if they could start producing it. Although it would be useless in combat it would help in construction and transport of supplies especially over broken terrain or through storms such as the one just encountered.
“Aff, we also found this.†Ever so gently, he handed her a small disk. At her questioning glance to him, he answered, “I looked through it it holds a cartography of what was once the Finmark Province of the Rim Worlds Republic. As well as information to a large BattleMech factory complex that had been recently finished on the capital world of that very province, Finmark. It indicated that the factory had been completed and was ready to start production. From the Rim Collection database Finmark no-longer appears on registered inhabited worlds.â€
“We would still have records of that world within our own databases, Quiaff?†Cassandra asked Clan Fire Mandrill, and then her Kindraa, had maintained the Star League-era maps of the Inner Sphere and immediate periphery during their long exile ready for use when they returned to the Inner Sphere. Although now they used them not as a place for searching for artifacts to benefit all the Clans but instead for survival.
Nova Cat Trade Post
New Aega, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
22nd January 3091
There was a tense stand-off in the air as the SLDF and Taurian Concordat troops shifted into the DropShips, which had been released by the Nova Cats for the evacuation. Although the Nova Cats had given the SLDF back their weapons and their DropShips the trade post which had been occupied by the First Royal ComGuard Regimental Brigade was now in Nova Cat hands. Colonel Han Pegg senior member of the First RCG Brigade stood beside saKhan Michael Drummond watching as the SLDF troops filtered into the DropShips “several of the Taurian survivors have decided to join the SLDF following their time fighting alongside us.†The asian man said glancing at the tall Nova Cat.
“You can decide the disposition of Taurian Concordat survivors after you have left Nova Cat space. They will be leaving with you and good riddance to them.†He said he had recently returned to New Aega from Davetal III to supervise the withdrawal of the SLDF forces Michael Drummond knew that while he had been sent back to New Aega Star Colonel Grayson had also returned to the Nova Cat's Den and was currently heading to, or back on, New Barcella. It angered Michael Drummond that his Clan would soon welcome Grayson into the bloodnamed, the freebirth scum of their enlightened Khan.
“I understand that several Nova Cat warriors captured during the fighting have also said that they would like to join the SLDF.â€
“They are your bondsmen Colonel, they do not have a choice, what you do with them is entirely up to you. If you choose to leave them then they will maybe have a chance to rejoin our Touman.â€
“But they may not?†Pegg asked from what he had read the thirteen Nova Cats that were currently prisoners of the First RCG Brigade had fought very well.
“Neg, they will have to face Trials of Position like ever other Nova Cat wishing to prove themselves, they are older than the new recruits joining our ranks, competition will be high. As I understand none have a bloodname so none will be too badly missed.â€
“Then we will retain them†Pegg said vowing to make sure the 'prisoners' gained every chance they deserved to join the SLDF's ranks.
“That is your right as their bond-masters, Colonel, our people will miss your presence here. It allowed us to be clansmen once more and to fight for what we wanted.â€
“Against an enemy that could go nowhere, and was no threat to you, that hardly sounds honourable?â€
“The greatest honour is in victory†the Nova Cat saKhan stated plainly “I wish you a safe trip.†He said finally before walking off.
“Until the next time†Pegg said quietly watching the warrior walking off he was under the distinct impression that this was not the end of the troubles they would face with the Nova Cats.
Diplomatic Assignment
Advisory Council Building
Defiance, Federated Suns
24th January 3091
At twenty years old Duchess Melinda-Ann Steiner arrives on Defiance to become the Lyran Commonwealth's diplomatic attache to the Star League Defence Force. As part of her duties she fills the Lyran position on the advisory council and represents the Lyran Commonwealth on Defiance and on Terra.
SLS Shining Claw (Congress Block II-class Frigate)
Nadir Point, Byrant,
Star League Protectorate
28th January 3091
While charging its K-F Drive at the Nadir Point of the Byrant system a freak accident occurs on board the SLS Shining Claw as one of the Congress Block II-class Frigate's airlocks explosively decompresses venting two decks into space killing eighteen members of the crew. Among those killed is Commanding-Admiral David Natale who had been moving between decks at the time of the explosion.
The SLS Shining Claw remains on station in the Bryant system until an SLIC investigation team arrived to investigate what had happened on board the vessel. Until this is concluded the Star League Defence Force Council is placed in charge of the SLDF Divisions and WarShip units. By March 20th the SLIC team conclude that the explosion on-board the SLS Shining Claw was in fact an act of assassination against the Commanding Admiral and an attack on the Star League Defence Force.
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A new unit the Shadow Hawk SHD-X3M LAM - hope you like it
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/shadow-hawk-shd-x3m-lam/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/shadow-hawk-shd-x3m-lam/)
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Nice tie-in with current events with the Starliner One entry. Hopefully, the future has better luck than the present in finding the missing craft.
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Nice tie-in with current events with the Starliner One entry. Hopefully, the future has better luck than the present in finding the missing craft.
Actually a complete coincidence this storyline has been in the timeline for a long time. (Since I created the Starliner One in fact)
Grand Melee, Rosse Bloodline
New Barcella, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
3rd February 3091
After a successful campaign on Davetal III Grayson Nova Cat had been recalled directly to New Barcella. With the recent casualties in combat on Davetal III, the lost Nova Cat WarShips and the combat on New Aega there were plenty of vacancies in the Nova Cat bloodhouses. Like his sister weeks before Grayson Nova Cat sees off all others to become Grayson Rosse, some are unhappy with this freeborn's elevation, something won in victory could not be taken away.
On the seventh of February Grayson Rosse wins a second victory, this one a Trial of Position, for the rank of Galaxy Commander. To stop any immediate Trials of Refusal to Grayson's position or name Khan Canin Rosse orders Grayson Rosse to take command of Upsilon Galaxy on Davetal III with the Lucian Carns, an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, for support. Along with Grayson's new command his former unit the 450th Assault Cluster transferred with him now under the command of newly Bloodnamed warrior Star Colonel Katrine Rosse, Grayson's long term rival within the Clan.
Radstadt (Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser)
Nadir Point, New Barcella system
Nova Cat's Den, Periphery
8th February 3091
At the Nadir point the Nova Cat Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser Radstadt was flanked by the WarShips Ranger, a Lola III-class Destroyer, and the Mastiff, a Drake-class Corvette, beside them were six JumpShips carrying three Cluster's of Alpha Galaxy and the Luna, a Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft. Oathmaster Sonja Rosse and Galaxy Commander Zane Carns had been briefed personally by Khan Canin Rosse.
The Khan explained that he'd experienced a vision of a Nova Cat and a Fox near the Sea, both had traveled far together but that time had come to an end. Now they would travel the same path but on different routes. He also explained that there was evidence found by the Watch that Clan Sea Fox had supplied the Taurians with the majority of their Clan technology which had caused Clan Nova Cat and the Star League Defence Force so much trouble. Khan Rosse ordered that Oathmaster Sonja Rosse personally ends Clan Nova Cat's involvement with Can Sea Fox.
Stewart Offensive
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
9th February 3091
In an unauthorized campaign Duke Leonard Stewart leads the Stewart Home Guard Regiment in a three pronged attack on the independent worlds of McAffe, Sheridan and Gannett. With a Battalion deployed to each planet they quickly overwhelm the local militia forces Duke Leonard Stewart showing off his new SHD-X3M Shadow Hawk LAM during the battle. On Marik and Atreus the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's leadership wonder what steps that Leonard Stewart is willing to take to extend the Stewart's family influence in their nation.
Royal Visit
Davion Royal Palace, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
13th February 3091
Returning a visit that Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion made in 3091 Edre McEvens, younger sister to Danai, travels from the world of Fronc to New Avalon visiting her sister's home. During the visit Danai also meets Captain Emma McEvens, Edre McEvens daughter and Danai Centrella-Davion's neice, who acts as Edre's head of security.
Masterston Memorial Spaceport
Regulus City, Principality of Regulus
Former Free Worlds League
20th February 3091
An Aqueduct-class Liquid Transport DropShip plunges from the sky after two of it engines had failed during landing, the forty-five thousand ton DropShip smashes into the tarmac, scattering debris and its liquid cargo across the spaceport. As Regulan City emergency personnel attend to the crashed ship the twenty-seven thousand tons of liquid explodes into fire. These fires highly reactive to the atmosphere of Regulus and the fire retardants used by the emergency personnel causes several explosions causing hundreds of casualties.
As further emergency crews react across Regulus Colonel Michelle Cameron-Jones, commander of the First Cameron-Jones House Guard and wife of Prince Titus Cameron-Jones, activates the defence regiments of Regulus to assist emergency crews. As she is moving to her BattleMech a sniper targets Michelle Cameron-Jones severely wounding her with their first shot. Eight more members of the House Guards are killed trying to reach Michelle before the sniper uses their last shot to end Michelle Cameron-Jones life.
SLIC/Watch Operation
Samantha, Hyades Union
Taurian Concordat
24th February 3091
Since the fall of the Davetal system the Star League Intelligence Corps and Clan Nova Cat's Watch had been pouring over information about who had been behind the attack on Althea's Choice, New Aega and behind the formation of Omega Six. Continuous intelligence had pointed to Taurus and an office close to the Protector of the Taurian Concordat, Marshal Cham Kithrong. The Marshal had been against Nova Cat operations in the Fronc Reaches and Filtvelt Coalition but they had nowhere near the firepower to oppose them. Intelligence supported a theory that Cham Kithrong had planned to use the SLDF's considerable resources to oppose the Nova Cats and force them out of the Periphery.
With the Taurian Concordat's long history with the Star League Defence Force well known Star Colonel Sandra Rosse, commander of the Nova Cat's Third Watch Cluster, and Colonel Larry Moss, commander of the Eighty-Third Special Operations Battalion of the SAS Division, had come up with the attack plan without involving the Taurian authorities. Slipping into the Taurian system on civilian ships they had landed three squads of Battle Armour from the Eighty-Third and two Points of Battle Armour from the Third Watch Cluster onto Taurus.
Moving through the Taurian capital of Samantha City the Nova Cats and the SLIC personnel set-up across from the Taurian Command. “That is the most secure building in the entire Taurian Concordat.†Larry Moss pointed out looking at Sandra Rosse, neither was a Battle Armour trooper by their original training but because of their units purpose they had cross-trained and neither planned on missing this arrest.
“Aff, however this man must pay for the blood on his hands.â€
“He will but we need to ensure collateral damage is kept to a minimum.†Cooper said looking at Sandra Rosse “non-lethal weapons unless absolutely necessary.â€
“Our armour should protect us from the small arms fire. However should we need to use lethal force we will.†Sandra Rosse said forceful Cooper nodded.
“Shift hand-over is in four minutes, we strike then, Baron Kithrong is in his office. We isolate it and capture him before security can react. Once that is done we will inform Taurian authorities†Cooper explained.
“And should they oppose us? The Taurians will not be happy that we have launched this operation on their soil.â€
“The rest of the Eighty-Third and Third Watch will be entering the system soon, if they arrive before we secure Kithrong he will have time to destroy any incriminating material he has†Cooper pointed out.
The minutes passed quickly while the Nova Cats and the SAS troopers prepared for the assault all were dressed in advanced Battle Armour suits but the Taurians had BattleMechs, Armoured Vehicles, Battle Armour and Infantry units in far larger numbers. With their timetable so tight Speed was more important than stealth so when they were ready a point of Nova Cat Slyph VTOL Battle Armour suits left the roof of the building flying over the perimetre fence bombing the defences. Immediately after the rest of the Nova Cats and SAS troopers charged through the breaks in the fences caused by the bombs immediately crossing the perimetre the Battle Armour launched into the air smashing through the windows of the building.
Immediately the Taurian defenders mobilized attacking the SLDF and Nova Cat forces fortunately the immediate response forces was made up of conventional infantry forces armed with weapons that could do minimal damage to the Battle Armour units. Knocking troopers to the side with their additional mass and speed smashing through internal doors as they went the SLDF/Nova Cat units quickly secured the whole floor that they had entered on including Marshal Cham Kithrong's office and the marshal himself. “What is the meaning of this?†He shouted at the faceless black Nighthawk Power Armour suits facing him their weapons were pointed at him. “Do you know who I am? You will all be imprisoned for this!â€
“Neg, Marshal we will not†Sharon Rosse stated her suit stepping through the others the Nova Cat insignia on her black suit's shoulder very visible. “You are going to pay for everything that you have done.†She promised him Kithrong did not reply instead he dived towards his desktop computer the troopers beside him reacted quickly restraining the Taurian Marshal against the wall their massive bulk stepping him from moving again. “I would have been disappointed if you had not tried something Marshal, this is over.â€
“It will only be over when your Clan is dead.†Kithrong promised
For the following twelve hours there was a tense stand-off as the Taurian Concordat military reacted to the SAS/Nova Cat operation. The Taurians had threatened the “invaders†with complete destruction should they not turn over Kithrong and all their weapons however no attack came. Sharon Rosse and Larry Moss kept their forces on alert even as Cham Kithrong's interrogation and the analysis of his files began. Protector Erik Martens-Calderon arrived on the site of the stand-off as morning began to break he informed Colonel Moss that he had been in direct communication with First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion and that the Taurian Concordat would be cooperating with the SLDF Investigation fully. He also informed the Protector that the SLS Mopelia Island and another unidentified WarShip had entered the system backing up the operation. Two WarShips was probably not enough to breach the Taurian Concordat's defences of the Hyades Cluster however they were a clear message to the Taurians that the SLDF meant business.
In the following weeks of interrogation on Taurus Cham Kithrong admitted to the formation of and funding of Omega Six under his orders. He also admitted to hiding the unit from the Protector and using the unit for his own objectives. In an attempt to justify his position Kithrong explained that he saw Clan Nova Cat as the greatest danger to the Taurian Concordat since the first SLDF and the Reunification War his goal was to turn the current SLDF against Clan Nova Cat however he had not anticipated the First Royal ComGuard Brigade's reaction to the Nova Cat attack. The deployment of two Taurian Concordat Regiments to support the SLDF had been intended to show the Taurian Concordat's continued support for the SLDF and attempt to draw further SLDF units into the battle. Analysis of the Baron's computer records and those in the Davetal system backed up Kithrong's statements and pointed confirmed information the Nova Cats possessed on where the Clan technology had come from. Once the Nova Cats and SLIC had gained all they could from Cham Kithrong he was remanded into Taurian Concordat custody at the request of the Taurian Concordat Protector who had stated that Kithrong would now face the Taurian Justice system for the use of government funds without authorization.
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Days off great for writing when you have nothing planned
Border Extension
Rim Association, Periphery
4th March 3091
Following years of support from the Rim Association the independent worlds of Sharqah, Howrah, Wilkes and Lengkong all announce they have chosen to join the Rim Association. Rim Association armed forces land on each of the worlds securing them these actions bring the Magistracy of Canopus and Principality of Regulus into shared borders with the Rim Association.
Border Skirmish
Matsuida, Draconis March
Federated Suns
10th March 3091
A border skirmish erupted in the Matsuida system as the Draconis Combine's Musashi WarShip Flotilla entered the system. The FSS Pegasus which had been based just off the Nadir point immediately assaulted the Draconis Combine WarShips with its forward Naval Particle Cannons causing heavy damage to the DCS Dragon's Lair, an Inazuma II-class Corvette, disabling the craft long enough for the Columbia-class Battleship to turn and engage the Corvette with its Kraken Teleoperated Capital Missiles finishing off the smaller vessel. As aerospace fighters and DropShips from the other vessels of the Flotilla engaged the Pegasus and her air wing the Federated Suns WarShip had no choice but to turn and move away from the jump point surrendering control over the access point to the system.
Using the Pegasus' massive Rolls Royce Kraken engines the crew successfully keep the remaining Draconis Combine WarShips at maximum range while causing increased damage with its multiple Naval lasers and Kraken missile launchers. For eight days the Pegasus fought a cat-and-mouse battle with the Draconis Combine vessels taking further damage the entire time. Arriving in orbit over Matsuida in the evening of the 18th the Pegasus slipped behind the planet covering the WarShip from the pursuing Draconis Combine vessels and the incoming ground forces.
While the Pegasus was behind the planet the AFFS unit on the planet, the First New Avalon Guards RCT, completed their evacuation. Coming around the planet the FSS Pegasus led the DropShips by a distance immediately the ship started with several Heavy Particle Cannon shots from its forward batteries causing severe damage to the DCS Pride of New Samarkand, a Kyushu-class Frigate, as three blasts struck the front of the ship. The Pride of New Samarkand returned fire with several Naval Autocannons and Particle cannons tearing into the Pegasus alongside the Pride the DCS Musashi opened fire on the Pegasus with its Naval Particle Cannons Capital Missiles, Naval Gauss weapons and Naval Lasers tearing into the mighty Federated Suns Battleship. Normally against one of these ships the Pegasus would stand a chance of fighting toe-to-toe against these craft but together the Columbia-class Battleship took a severe pounding from the Combine vessels.
As the Pegasus slipped past the Combine vessels its commander Fleet Admiral Blaine Webster rolled the vessel to present its upper hull towards them firing its Kraken Capital Missiles and large bore naval lasers in defence. Behind the Pegasus the DropShips of the First New Avalon Guards RCT scattered behind the battleship's bulk trying to avoid incoming fire. Further weapons fire struck the rear of the Pegasus cutting the vessel's acceleration as one of the ship's massive engines exploded under the intense fire. The massive one and a half million tonne WarShip's thrust was cut to virtually nothing fortunately the ship had already built up significant forward momentum which brought the crippled vessel out of range from the Draconis Combine vessels which chose not to pursue the retreating AFFS forces.
Rendezvousing away from the planet the Federated Suns forces met with JumpShips and quickly left the system abandoning Matsuida to the Combine. All three remaining Draconis Combine WarShips in the system were badly damaged requiring weeks of repair but they were also fully operational which was far more than could be said about the Pegasus. The Columbia-class Battleship entered the Igualade system, with the First New Avalon Guards RCT, the Battleship immediately sent out a distress call reporting multiple hull breaches and with many systems compromised too badly to operate or completely destroyed and with over half the crew being reported as dead or missing. On hearing of the Pegasus' condition the AFFS redeployed the FSS Latha Paschel from Thestria to support the vessel and ordered the FSS Intrepid, the Fox Block III-class Yardship, to move to assist the vessel from the New Syrtis system.
Public Announcement
Denbar, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
16th March 3091
In a public announcement that reaches across the Capellan Confederation and into the neighbouring realms on ever state and commercial HPG communication relay system the Capellan government announce the capture of Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao and the remains of the First St Ives Lancers on Denbar. With two WarShips in the system there is little to no hope of the St Ives Compact being able to recover her. The Star League requests to put observers on Denbar however the Capellan Confederation refuse access. As the message spreads the message passes to the Lucian Carns, Grayson Rosse's WarShip, passing through uninhabited systems of the Taurian Concordat, the vessel escorting Nova Cat supplies to the Clan's Davetal III base. Feeling a debt of gratitude to Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao for her help in negotiating the crisis on New Aega Grayson makes a decision and changes the WarShip's course for Denbar.
Space Control Tower, Saginaw,
Midway, Oshika Prefecture
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
20th March 3091
For ten days the DropShip had been a spec on Saginaw's Space Traffic Control Radar, it had followed its directed course, now however the ship had drifted from its course. “Red Buccaneer, Red Buccaneer, this is Saginaw Air Traffic Control you are off course are you declaring an emergency?†Space controller Shinjori Watson called on the radio turning to his fellow controller “raise the military perhaps their communications have failed if we could get some fighters in the air they could guide them down.â€
“Their current course is taking them towards Lackawana City†Olivia Pierce said looking at the screens “if they crash into a built up area then they could cause hundreds of people. We may need to force them into the bay.â€
“It won't get that far, if we can get to them then we can stop this before something drastic has to happen.†He replied changing several controls focusing on the Buccaneer-class DropShip the ship was a cargo craft with minimal armaments and up until now had followed every procedure on entering the Midway landing pattern.
“I have an answer from Midway Aerospace and Interstellar Institute (AII) they have a pair of Oni 2Xs in the air. They are sending them on an intercept flight†Pierce replied.
“In the air?†Watson snapped “why are they flying in our operating area without our clearance?â€
“Probably testing their new toys." The Oni 2X was well known as a test-bed fighter for using stealth armour on aerospace craft they had been in testing on Midway for weeks. "AII reports the Oni are inbound from the north-east call signs Beast-One and Beast-Two.†She reported “we still don't have them.â€
“Red Buccaneer, this is Beast-One, on Channel Three please respond†the pilot of the lead Oni fighter said as they approached the incoming Bucaneer type DropShip. The DropShip was almost like a huge aircraft with a long thing body and wide wings. The ship continued forward towards the city of Lackawana without reply “Beast-One, Beast-Two, we'll come up alongside her left wing see if we can get some visual combat.â€
“On you're wing†the other pilot replied. The two Oni fighters swung out wide, far beyond the Buccaneer's flight path. Moments later weapons fire erupted from the Buccaneer gauss rifle and extended-range laser fire tore through the air into Beast-Two tearing the medium aerospace fighter to pieces. “EJECTING!†The pilot screamed as the fighter fell to pieces around the pilot moments later the pilot shot clear of the stricken craft.
“Beast-One to control Beast-Two is down in sector twenty-two! Consider the Red Buccaneer to be hostile, I want a full scan of that ship and its systems.†Beast-One's pilot ordered spinning away from the cargo DropShip as lasers, gauss rifle fire and long range missiles filled the air. The ship had many, many times the weapons a normal Buccaneer had all revealed as panels slid away whatever the DropShips mission was today Beast-One bet this DropShip was a former pirate craft.
“Beast-One we are tracking Beast-Two ejection, it looks like a clean break.†The controller reported “scanning DropShip...†he continued “Beast-One, Red Buccaneer matches the sensor profile of the Red Raider run by Razek's Band of pirate forces off of Antallos.†Confirming Beast-One's suspicions.
“They were wiped out years ago by the Ravens!†The pilot shouted avoiding further fire from the renegade fighter “they are putting on the speed!†He said moving around the DropShip as it accelerated “I'm engaging†he replied moving into the DropShip's rear arc hoping to find less firepower. As he moved Beast-One powered the Oni's forward Binary Laser Cannon and loaded the Medium Range Missile system readying his fighter to engage. Targeting the DropShip he triggered the forward laser and missile system cutting into the DropShip's armour but causing no internal breaches “stronger armour than standard I am barely denting them, they are heading into the city!â€
“Understood, further assets raising to support!â€
“It's too late!†The pilot shouted as there were two small explosions on the DropShip's lower hull “they just blew the cargo hold! I'm seeing some sort of liquid falling into the southern bay area! Repeat a liquid compound has been dropped into the bay!" He called out the warning as the DropShip continued towards the city "Red Raider is dropping altitude! They are heading for Lackawana General Hospital†the pilot reported his fingers frozen off the firing triggers as he watched the three thousand-five hundred ton vessel's left wing tear through the middle levels of Lackawana General Hospital's tower block. The remains of the DropShip spun out of control smashing into further buildings causing massive amount of fire and secondary explosions. “Control this is Beast-One, I can confirm impact with LGH and the buildings around it. I can see six major tower block fires catching on we will need emergency crews to the area there is going to be massive casualties!†The pilot said orbiting the crash site seeing the liquid draining into the bay area “we will also need a marine chemical containment unit for the bay!â€
For the next few days the people of Midway and the greater Draconis Combine reacted to the attack with initial estimates of twelve to fifteen thousand casualties as one of the tower blocks damaged by the crashed DropShip crumbled to the ground within hours of the initial crash. During the mop-up operation the marine containment unit confirmed that the chemical agent introduced to the Lackawana bay was lethal to humans and had infected the local drinking water extending the crisis. Midway as capital of the Military District of Midway needed additional resources to contain the chemical spill which threatened millions of life across the planet, the additional resources spent on Midway caused friction across the District.
Governor's Office, Central Ecol City
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
27th March 3091
This office was the last office Archer Christifori had wanted to be sitting in. He was a BattleMech pilot he had served the Lyran and Federated Commonwealth armies before joining the Star League Defence Force. He would have been happy with command of the SLDF's First Royal Regimental Brigade “Morgan's Lions†he thought quietly remembering the easy days when he was a simple Brigade commander. After things had spiraled out of control with Morgan Hasek-Davion selecting him as the man who would eventually replace him. Even as Commanding-General Archer had enjoyed his life it was one of service and travel, there was plenty of paperwork but that was balanced out by the feeling that he was making a difference, and plenty opportunities to pilot his BattleMech. Katya had been involved with Intelligence and they at least had time together now, even with her mustering out of the SLDF, they were distant, disconnected to each other. He hoped that once she returned to Thorin they could have some time together, time he would only get if he could clear the massive amount of paperwork connected to being Governor of Thorin. This was was post, an office, he never really wanted but the people had called on his service and Archer Christifori could not turn down the chance to serve.
Standing at the windows of his eighth floor office looking over Ecol City Archer could see three VTOLs traveling directly towards the tower. As they closed Archer could see them switching position continuously, someone on those craft was very important, as they closed Archer realized that the helicopters were Cavalry Infiltrator variants. Because the First Royal Division looked after his Penetrator BattleMech Archer knew that the unit did not have any such unit, nor did the newly raised First Thorin Guard Regiment or the First Thorin Training Battalion. The aircraft painted in SLDF greens turned directly towards the building he wondered what exactly was going on, he did know that two SLDF DropShips had landed during the night and that he had been sent information on the reasons for their unconventional entry into the system which had been via a pirate point near Thorin's moon. The three aircraft thundered over the building although not a pilot Archer guessed that they were on a landing approach, if they wanted him they knew where to find him he thought, as he turned back towards his desk and his paperwork. Before he could even reach his desk a few feet away the doors burst open “Honey I'm home!†Katya Christifori burst out as she stepped through the doors passed two stunned guards. Archer was fixed to the spot for several seconds before taking several rapid steps grabbing his wife with his arms raising her off the ground as he turned her slowly.
“When did you return?â€
“About an hour agoâ€
“The DropShips? That's quite a short-cut...†Archer began thinking that the JumpShip pilot had to be the craziest in the Inner Sphere to jump that close to Thorin just to get Katya home. He knew that couldn't have been the only reason.
“Don't worry, Governor, she didn't make those decisions alone†Victor Steiner-Davion said entering the room behind Katya passed the still stunned guards.
“First Lord, welcome to Thorin, you could have warned us we would have set-up for you.†Archer explained releasing Katya turning to Victor.
“The reason behind us not sending word ahead is the same for us using a pirate point.†Victor said stepping into the room the two doors closed behind them. Victor moved over to Archer's small drinks cabinet selecting three glasses “I'm sure you don't mind? It's been quite a trip.â€
“Of course, sire†Archer said moving behind the desk Katya selected a comfortable green sofa and flopped down onto it the Governor seeing just how tired his wife was the last location he had for them was back within the Federated Suns after final operations were complete against Omega Six.
“We took a string of JumpShips through the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate.†Victor explained handing Katya a drink “being First Lord, First Prince and having some Steiner blood in me helps at times. Those who were not bound to service answered to the call of cash.†He added before handing a drink to Victor before sitting down opposite Archer. “Archer, David's death†Victor said quietly speaking of the reason for his visit, Commanding-Admiral David Natale's death, “was not a tragic accident, as it's been reported, the SLIC have been over the Shining Claw with a tooth comb†he said looking directly at Archer “David was murdered.â€
“Murdered?†Archer asked stunned looking at Katya who nodded.
“Assassinated is the polite term, but it was little more than a murder cold blooded and unprovoked.†Victor said taking a sip of his drink passing the details to Katya.
“Investigators are working their way through the crew of the Shining Claw however they are coming up blank twenty members of the Frigate's crew are now confirmed to have been killed by the initial blast and injuries sustained.†Katya explained “the running theory at present is that one of those killed was responsible for the attack.â€
“A suicide mission?†Archer said out loud surprised that such a thing could happen on a Star League WarShip.
“It would appear so†Victor replied “with the troubles throughout the Free Worlds League, Capellan Confederation and along the Federated Suns and Combine borders there is yet more trouble.â€
“The Star League was created to protect the Inner Sphere but the Inner Sphere doesn't seem to want to protect itself. We cannot put out all these brush fires.†Archer said angrily.
“I have not even asked you yet and already you are thinking like a Commanding-General.†Victor said smiling Archer glanced at Katya who nodded her agreement with the idea. “It will be a temporary assignment Archer until the crisis is over and we have a better handle on what is going on in the Inner Sphere.â€
“I'll do it sir, on a condition†Archer said Victor glanced at Katya in surprise then straight back at Archer “you authorize Katya's reinstatement as my aide†he said his wife smiled warily “we've been separated enough over the last few years.â€
“Just when I was looking forward to an early retirement†Katya said drinking from her own glass in a mock salute to her husband's idea.
“I'm not against it Commanding-General†Victor said raising from his chair Archer did the same “congratulations again.†He said shaking Archer's hand the new Commanding-General nodded there were others in the SLDF who deserved to be considered for this position however if David Natale's death was in fact an assassination Archer knew that he'd need his wits around him. If the Commanding-General was a target, on the Star League's Flagship, who next? The Division commanders in their sleep? The First Lord on their throne? Someone had declared war on the Star League and Archer was determined to see them fail.
-
This is a Man Clan Fennec would welcome as an Ally and Fear as an Enemy.
-
Galatea General Hospital
Galatea City, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
2nd April 3091
After a six hour labour Elizabeth McCarron gives birth to a surprisingly healthy, three week pre-mature, baby boy at Galatea General Hospital. Elizabeth and her husband Malcolm Hague name their child Grant McCarron to carry on the McCarron name. With Grant's birth there is an heir to the McCarron Armoured Cavalry Mercenary Command which now stands at two full regiments. The unit which had fallen from its previous size during their troubles with the Capellan Confederation were finally beginning to see the fruits of their own labour with their own estate on Galatea and an option to pick of contracts from across the Inner Sphere.
Border Skirmish
Genoa, Ruchbah PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
5th April 3091
With increased raids from Capellan Confederation, and an unidentified force, the First Ceti Hussars RCT had been redeployed from Achernar to the worlds of Zurich, Genoa and Nanking. Separating into three Combat Commands the RCT would deploy three Combined-arms Regiments to each of the worlds to shore up the local militia forces already on planet. Leftenant Fredrick Davion, despite Vice Admiral Elias Briggs initial worries about him, had been assigned as a lance commander with three other BattleMechs under his command.
The Leopard-class DropShip transporting Fredrick Davion and his lance down through Genoa's stormy atmosphere towards the capital city of Columbus rocking as they went. “Leftenant, it appears there is a battle ongoing on the surface between the militia and an unknown force.â€
“Have we been given tasking orders?†He asked from the cockpit of his Rifleman.
“The Colonel is directing the Combat Command to the local spaceport†the pilot replied.
“Do we specifically have tasking commands, Captain?â€
“Negative, Leftenant†the pilot replied
“Then I want you to drop us near the militia, we've all got jump jets, we'll drop and reinforce their position until the rest of the unit are organized.â€
“Leftenant that will leave you very exposed†the DropShip pilot said Fredrick knew the pilot was talking about his name more than his abilities.
“Pilot, I'm here to do a job, get us down there. It's my call for ground operations.â€
“Yes, sir, prepare for insertion.†The pilot called out he given Fredrick a chance which was all he could do.
“All right people the pilot is dropping us near the militia line†Fredrick said switching to the lance channel “we are going to shore up the militia and disrupt this attack.â€
“The four of us?†One of his lance mates called back.
“Only for a few minutes no-one takes any chances they don't need to take.†He said moments later the DropShips doors opened and the green lights along the sides of the doors lit up. “Go, Go, Go!†He called out stepping his Rifleman several steps forward the Mech cleared the bay doors and dropped into the air Fredrick cut in his jump jets slowing his Mech's fall immediately. The Mech dropped through the air landing heavily on its sturdy legs a few short moments later immediately Fredrick raised his BattleMech's arms turning towards the first enemy Mech he could see a seventy-five ton Lao Hu. Fixing on the Mech he opened fire with both Hyper Assault Gauss Rifles at the same time the two massive Clan-built weapons roared to life shaking the entire Mech as they rapidly fired dozens of gauss projectiles into the heavy Mech shaving armour arms and torso section of the Mech. Immediately after he cut in his Mech's four extended-range medium lasers burning away more armour off the enemy Mech forcing the pilot back.
The Lao Hu twisted its torso towards the Rifleman Fredrick looked at the range and smiled he was out of range for the enemy Mech's main gun a massive assault autocannon. The Lao Hu opened fire with its long range missiles peppering the Rifleman with minor hits, moments later the warrior triggered his laser system as well but the shot went wide. Fredrick smiled a primal smile, this was what he had trained for, all those stories his father had told when he was younger. Moving his Mech quickly to the left he kept his Mech's arms, and his two rifles, trained on the Lao Hu as soon as the weapons were reloaded he triggered them again cutting away more armour off the Lao Hu. Moments later the enemy Mech was struck by a stream of pulse lasers and medium range missiles which tore into the Capellan Mech, one of the pulse lasers tore through the cockpit of the Lao Hu killing the pilot Fredrick looked at the side and noticed the Gallant BattleMech of MechWarrior Chloe Feore “Thief†Fredrick said quietly.
“All's fair in love and war El-Tee†the MechWarrior replied before a gauss rifle tore through her Mech's left side tearing off the Gallant's arm throwing the Mech to the ground.
“Chloe...†Fredrick called out looking at the Mech “Chloe†he repeated as the Mech began to get back up slowly “you read.â€
“You're not rid of me yet.†She said quietly
“All right!†Fredrick called out “you fall back, I'll cover†Fredrick ordered the other MechWarrior turning on another Capellan design this one an old Raven light Mech. Targeting the Mech with all four of his medium lasers Fredrick tore the leg off the light Mech with three successful hits to the right leg. The Raven tumbled to the ground and stopped moving. “Two down†he said looking around he spotted a Regulator II Hovertank immediately he fired one of his gauss rifles but the stream missed tearing up the ground the Regulator returned fire smashing the Rifleman's torso tearing up the Mech's engine shielding Fredrick felt a rush of heat before pulling the rifle trigger again this time tearing into the side of the Regulator puncturing the hover skirt in several places dropping the medium weight craft to the ground as it was unable to maintain the air pressure with the damaged skirt. Two small wheeled vehicles shot past Fredrick's Mech twisting to see them he noticed they were both Kruger Combat Cars bore the colours of the First Ceti Hussars RCT both opened fire with their turret mounted laser systems burning more armour off the Regulator “more kill thieves†Fredrick said chuckling before watching the Regulator's turret spin tracking the Krugers. A single shot struck the front of one of the Krugers.
“A little help Mechboy?†The the Kruger driver called out he could hear the panic in her voice the Kruger was a newly deployed scout tank, based off a design that had been out of production for decades, it wasn't designed for battle line operations like this one.
“Of course†he called back out triggering his lasers burning through what remained of the Regulator's armour shutting the tank down.
“Thanks Mechboy how about we set them up and you knock them down?†The driver suggested
“Sounds good Tanker let's go.†He said
“Hey! Tankers are big, slow and ugly I'm none of that†the driver replied cheekily as the Krugers both shot off although one of them was badly damaged the drivers were obviously planning on relying on their speed to keep out of harms way and Fredrick's back up fire to get them out of trouble.
As it turned out the partnership worked very well with Fredrick and his remaining two lance mates keeping in contact with the Krugers for several hours as they engaged the Capellan raiding force before the Mechs needed to fall back due to equipment failures and ammunition shortages. Even as the Mechs were falling back the two Krugers were heading to another assignment Fredrick didn't even know their names but was very thankful for their timely arrival the new vehicles, and their drivers, had certainly proved their worth as had Fredrick Davion.
Raid in Force
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey
Former Free Worlds League
11th April 3091
Unknown raiders painted in the colours of the Lyran Guards, but matching no known Lyran unit, assault Tamarind causing massive damage to several storage areas. The attackers are immediately attacked by the Heart of Blake Mercenary Command which was made up of former Word of Blake officers. The attackers turn away from causing trouble instead turning fully on the Heart of Blake by the time the First Tamarind Guard Regiment arrive the Heart of Blake are no more their Mechs and vehicles lay strewn across the battlefield. The mysterious raiders trade long range shots with the Tamarind Guard as they retreat intentionally turning their guns on any unit of their own that falls.
SIS Candice Allard-Liao (Newgrange-class Yardship)
Warlock, St Ives Compact
19th April 3091
Deep within the remains of the St Ives Compact the SIS Candice Allard-Liao, a Newgrange-class Yardship, launches the SIS St Loris, a new Kai-class Destroyer, which had recently been finished inside the massive vessel. Given the St Ives Compact's depleted fleet the St Loris moves immediately to the St Ives system to shore up defences,however, even as the ship arrives the crew are still screwing down the last nuts and bolts. The Candice Allard-Liao jumps soon after the St Loris has left the system arriving in the Tantara system and begins construction of a Union-class Pocket WarShip type of DropShip as the St Ives Compact attempts to crash build a naval force.
-
Into May
Ghost Bear Staging Area
Buckminster, Orestes District
Rasalhague Dominion
3rd May 3091
Following the attacks by the Draconis Combine on the worlds of Gram and Shimosuwa the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion had staged the entire Beta Galaxy on the planet of Buckminster. As Beta Galaxy prepared for operations against the Draconis Combine a Quetzalcoatl Scout-class JumpShip jumped into the system near the planet deploying twelve aerospace fighters which immediately began to burn towards the atmosphere.
As Ghost Bear aerospace fighters of Beta Galaxy rose to engage them the lead fighters intentionally engage multiple targets creating an instant melee. Between these dueling fighters the last two craft, a pair of heavily modified Ironsides CX-19s, dive through the fight instead of engaging the Clan fighters they dive to the surface.
Once under one hundred metres the two fighters skimmed the planet's surface until they reached Beta Galaxy's main base of operations. The two fighters immediately opened fire with their seven Short Range Missile Launchers the warheads flew over the entire base exploding over the ground forces covering the base in an A-232 chemical nerve agent the fighters then flew over the capital of Buckminster showering the city with the same warheads before being shot down by ground air defences. Although the Ghost Bear Aerospace Fighters and other automated defences were able to destroy the rest of the attacking aerospace fighters within hours nearly two hundred thousand men, women and children including the vast majority of Beta Galaxy were dead. Their deaths were immediately attributed to the A-232 detonations as were the thousands of other casualties in critical condition across Buckminster. From across the Rasalhague Dominion there is widespread rage at the attack however the Ghost Bear Khans order Buckminster cared for before any revenge is taken.
Capellan attack
Vestallas, Capellan March
Federated Suns
9th May 3091
Escorting three JumpShips the CCSS Chancellor's Pride, the Capellan Confederation's sole Thera-class Carrier, jumped into the Vestallas system deploying several DropShips including three Lung Wang P3 Pocket WarShips. The system formerly held by the St Ives Compact was now held by the Federated Suns and defended by the FSS Melissa Davion and the FSS William Davion and the First Kittery Borderers Regiment. Both Federated Suns Avalon-class Cruisers were damaged from the previous battle for the system however that stopped neither from moving into the engagement supported by several Arondight Pocket WarShips and a Vengeance Fighter Carrier the two Avalons started by volley firing Killer Whale capital missiles. Unfortunately as the Capellan vessel was capable of carrying three Aerospace Fighter wings which were acting as a point defence for the Carrier and the DropShips as they closed on the planet meaning few missiles were getting through. As they closed DropShips charged towards the planet landing two entire Regiments of Capellan Mechs. With the two Avalons taking significant damage from the fighters the ground force commander ordered a general retreat from the world, however, even as they were evacuating the planet the Borderers were taking mounting losses.
As they reached orbit the William Davion exploded from within as its capital missile magazine was breached by Capellan weapons fire shattering the Avalon. The Melissa Davion continued to hold the line against the aerospace fighters and DropShips while the ground forces retreated from the planet however the vessel took mounting losses as the Capellan Confederation force continued to attack. Unable to jump clear before the ground forces were clear the Melissa Davion suffered hit after hit until the Avalon could take no more the Capellan Confederation fighters continued to press their attacks even as the Melissa Davion's crew began to abandon ship the cruiser rolling out of control. The majority of the First Kittery Borderers JumpShips jumped clear of the system before the Capellans could fall on them however they remained in system just long enough to witness the FSS Melissa Davion's final journey an uncontrolled spiral that took the Cruiser straight into the sun.
With House Davion driven from the system the Capellans began to reassert themselves on the world and launched raids against Scituate, Gurnet and Weekapaug keeping the Capellan March on edge. Following the loss of two Avalon-class Cruisers to massed fighter attacks and the continued trouble with the FSS Sarah Davion, the Avalon Block II prototype, the AFFS High Command orders that once the three Avalon Block I-class vessels under construction are completed production of the class is halted until further notice. The owners of the McKenna Shipyards of Kathil, the producers of the Avalon-class, immediately begin to intensify work on repairing the bugs in the Sarah Davion's systems to make the ship suitable for AFFS Naval operations while the Duke of Kathil Petyr VanLees begs the Hasek family for help with reversing the High Commands decision reporting that the McKenna Shipyards could loose valuable expertise to other shipyards should the Avalon yard be shut down permanently.
Command Bridge, RMA Kirsten Marik (Eagle-class Destroyer)
Augustine, Rousset-Marik Alliance
Former-Free Worlds League
15th May 3091
A week before an unidentified Black Lion-class WarShip had entered the Augustine system at the Nadir Jump Point. The ship, painted in black, had immediately began to make a burn towards Augustine ignoring hails from the Nadir Point jump station and from nearby JumpShips. As it had traveled in system the Battle-cruiser had deployed four DropShips, all Union-class, and had continued to ignore any attempt by the local population to communicate.
The RMA Kirsten Marik, the Rousset-Marik Alliance's only Eagle-class Frigate, had been dispatched, along with a squadron of six DropShips, to intercept and stop the Black Lion by any means. Standing within the command bridge of the vessel Kapten Michela Hunter watched as her WarShip entered weapons range with the Black Lion. “We give them one last chance to stand down.†She ordered “this is the RMA Kirsten Marik to unidentified Black Lion you are entering restricted space. Reverse your course immediately or be classed as hostile.†She said glancing at the communications officer who shook his head, no response. “Fine, Black Lion is considered to be hostile paint with ECM!†She said raising her voice.
“Defensive ECM just went fully active on the Black Lion!†One officer called out “we have aerospace fighters launching from Black Lion and all DropShips. We are being targeted with hostile scans. Incoming capital missiles!â€
“Return fire with forward cannon and Lasers!†She responded even at this range they might get lucky and cause damage to the bigger WarShip. “Anti-Missile defences to engage missiles as soon as they come into range.†She ordered as she saw her vessel's naval lasers miss their target. Moments later the Black Lion changed its facing slightly as the Kirsten Marik's Naval Gauss rifle shot slammed into the side of the ship tearing open the armour. A cheer rang for a moment just before the Eagle's Anti-Missiles defences kicked in five of the ten enemy missiles were torn from the space around the Frigate however that still left the other five. One White Shark missile completely missed passing by the WarShip harmlessly burning out the other two White Sharks and two Barracudas did not plowing into the six hundred-and-twenty-five thousand ton WarShip.
Even deep in the WarShip Michela felt the WarShip rock heavily under the impacts she knew her ship couldn't take many of those. “Prepare a second forward salvo. Naval autocannons in support, as soon as we fire turn our port armour to face them.†She ordered the gunners did not have a chance to line up their shot however as Naval autocannon fire from the Black Lion began exploding all around the WarShip blasting at the space around them causing damage to the Kirsten Marik, the DropShips around her and their aerospace fighters. “What the hell?†She shouted “how can they be hitting us that accurately at this range?†She demanded
“They are bracketing us!†The officer reported the original Star League had developed the technology using multiple Naval Autocannons to “bracket†an enemy target calculating where it could be in the time and firing cannons to all possible locations. It was less damaging than direct fire but made weapons far more deadly at range.
“Do the same! Return fire†she ordered the Rousset-Marik Alliance had gained that same technology from the reborn Star League Defence Force although her crew were not experianced in using it there was not time like the present. The Kirsten Marik's forward bays opened fire this time the forward gauss rifle missed completely. Two linked autocannons caused a little damage to the charging Black Lion while the Eagle's Naval Lasers burned gouges in the Battle-cruiser's port armour. Something along the ship's seven hundred-and-seventy metre long hull exploded as a weapon was destroyed but the ship continued to close.
“They are rolling!†The helm officer reported as the Kirsten Marik began her own turn as both ships attempted to bring their broadsides into play. Both ships would be presented with fresh armour and loaded weapons. Looking at the range ticking down Michela knew that all her ship's broadside bay would be ready to fire unfortunately she knew that the Black Lion's weapons would also be ready. Even as she called on the weapons screws to fire she saw on the Kirsten Marik's holotank and on the external high-resolution cameras she saw the Black Lion's massive broadside bay unleash their full potential. Sixteen Naval autocannons tore through the Kirsten Marik's armour and hull as if the Eagle-class Frigate was an ancient sailing vessel on Terra the ship's entire structure was shaken to the core as the Black Lion's gunners pounded them with not one but two volleys the second volley also took in the Eagle's escorting DropShip and fighter force virtually wiping them all from space in a matter of minutes. What was left of the Kirsten Marik and her crew would have barely registered on the Black Lion's sensors as the ship slid past the destroyed WarShip on towards Augustine.
Two days later the WarShip arrive in orbit of Augustine several DropShip rose from the surface to engage the Battle-cruiser but they had no chance against the massive vessel as its array of autocannon and missile tore through ship-after-ship as it settled into orbit. Even as Duchess Alys Rousset-Marik issued a general surrender and a plea for mercy the Black Lion's guns opened up again releasing hell on the surface of the planet. Targeting first the Rousset-Marik family home the Black Lion's guns then indiscriminately tore through Augustine's capital city and the continent of Kabuko destroying the worlds HPG, its industry, spaceports, military bases and government buildings. For eighteen hours the bombardment and aerospace fighter bombings continued until the Battle-cruiser moved out of orbit heading deeper into the system.
From the planet's other continents military units belonging to the Seventh Free Worlds Legionaries arrive to find The Krushers Regiment and the First Rousset-Marik Militia destroyed in their bases unable to retaliate against the orbiting target. At the nadir point the recharge station crew dispatch the limited relief personnel they have available and they send JumpShips to nearby systems to call on aid however it is not until the end of May when really support personnel arrive from the nearby Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, the Oriente Protectorate and from the SLDF.
Across the world people tell stories of the “Night the Sky Fell†as homes, families, units and lives were shattered. With no clear indication the Black Lion even left the system many of the local population demand to be moved to nearby systems or leave to join relatives elsewhere. In the ruins of the Rousset-Marik family home Duchess Alys Rousset-Marik is found dead along with her husband deep within the house in a specially built bunker that had been designed to survive such an attack but failed when tested for real. Their twenty-three year old daughter Duchess Quinn Ana Rousset is nowhere to be found within the ruins or on the wrecked planet. Without a functional government the Seventh Free Worlds Legionaries declare martial law.
Invasion debrief
Council Chambers, Lesnovo
Rim Association
29th May 3091
It was a cold day on Lesnovo, the capital of the Rim Association, winter was gripping the world tightly and even the best heaters and insulation could not completely counter. General Trent Higall wished he was in a BattleMech cockpit instead of here the Council Chambers of Lesnovo seat of Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones. The Duke was an old man now pushing into his eighties he had so far refused to pass over leadership to his son, Ethan, although the Rim Association believed in many voting freedoms here on Lesnovo leadership would still be inherited through family. The world belonged to the family and with it leadership of the Rim Association was likely to follow.
Today who was in charge did not matter so much as the topic recently the Rim Association had come into conflict with the Magistracy of Canopus as Rim Association forces had assaulted the worlds of Glevakha, Rohinjan, Payvand and Ayn Tarma all former Free Worlds League held systems that had fallen to the Capellan Confederation and then the Magistracy of Canopus. On Payvand and Glevakha the Liger Warriors and troops from the recently joined Twin Sons systems had led the battle and although successful they had sustained losses more so than the Rim Association was willing to accept.
“General Higall, I hope you are well?†The Duke began Higall immediately stroked his goatee it was a habit he'd developed he knew the goatee had far more gray hairs than colour now.
“I am well†he replied
“General, our recent combat with the Magistracy of Canopus has some of our analysts a little worried.†Higall remained quiet “on the worlds of Payvand and Glevakha we sustained heavier than expected losses especially within the Liger Warriors and the First Twin Sons Regiment. Considering their superior training and the technology we would have thought the opposite, considering the defenders were little different on those worlds compared to the other worlds.
“Aff, but the objectives were achieved.†Higall said slightly annoyed that his people were being questioned.
“You don't sound surprised Trent†the Duke said “mind explaining that?†he said raising his hand directing Trent Higall to sit down.
“Neg, I was not surprised.†Higall said quietly sitting opposite the Duke “the warriors involved in the recent battles were the oldest of the Liger Warriors and some of the oldest of the former Smoke Jaguar warriors from the Twin Sons system.â€
“If they are that old then surely they should have been retired, we should not have been endangering our people with them in combat.â€
“They were no danger, Raymond, no danger except to themselves.†Higall snapped. He said looking at the man he was not Clan he could not understand “these warriors were too experienced and still too combat capable in a cockpit to be replaced. They were Clansmen to their very bone and they were tired†he said “when this chance to fight with honour and quite possibly die for what they had sworn to defend I could not turn them away.†Trent admitted he wished in some ways that he could follow them but he knew that the Liger Warriors, their culture and the families that had grown from them needed protection even now. “They took our Clan technology that had deteriorated more than the rest but was still combat capable and they fought longer than any other unit on each planet. We allowed them to die like Clansmen which is their last wish.†He explained Higall realized the Duke did not understand “they were the last who wished such a service, your decision to liberate the lost Free Worlds League worlds from the Magistracy was the excuse they needed and saved us internal issues on the Twin Sons.â€
“So these men and women wanted to die?†Raymond said quietly “and you are fine with their losses? You sent them knowing they would not return.â€
“I honoured their last wish†Higall said defiantly “I would have done so again if required of me.â€
“I cannot support your choice Trent. However I also know that replacing you would be a mistake you still have much support throughout our armed forces.†Raymond said “I want to know if you have any more of these hail-mary's planned, give me a chance to speak with those warriors, I need to understand it.â€
“You will not understand†Trent said quietly “but I will involve you in the future, if you can live with saying goodbye to people on their own terms Quiaff?†he said every now and then Trent used the Clan terms it was all he had left of his upbringing Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones understood some of them after working with Trent Higall for so long.
“Aff, General, I will try.†He said agreeing to learn to understand.
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This month (and probably the next few) is a long one so they are in multiple parts. The way I'm approaching the Manei Domini is they are hard hitting, but short burning, units so let the chaos begin.
Manei Domini Attack
Northwind, Star League Protectorate
3rd June 3091
As if to show that the Free Worlds League were not the only nation that would pay for what had happened to the Word of Blake the world of Northwind, home to the famed Northwind Highlanders Mercenary Brigade came under direct assault from a unit painted all in white wearing a Blood Red Triangle Shaped Emblem with a winged sword under a crescent moon. The unit using unknown advanced BattleMech designs and Star League-era Royal designs lands near Northwind's capital city of Tara. Instead of defending their landing site or moving to engage the Highlander Regiments on planet the unit abandoned their DropShips instead heading directly into the city of Tara and began opening fire on anything that moved causing hundreds of casualties and millions of C-Bills worth of damage before the First Kearny Highlanders Regiment arrived to engage the attackers.
The other two Regiments on planet the Robert's Rangers and the Northwind Hussars moved to secure routes in and out of the City of Tara allowing civilians to escape while the First Kearny concentrated on the enemy force. In the former-Free Worlds League and the Lyran Commonwealth the Second Kearny Highlanders and the Northwind Renegades began to make moves to return to Northwind. The Second Kearny had recently ended its contract with the Oriente Protectorate and had been in negotiations to extend the deal before hostilities broke out on the unit's Homeworld.
For more than a month the Battle for Tara, as the fight becomes known, destroys the vast majority of Tara until Northwind is declared safe on the 18th July 3091. The attack causes more than five hundred thousand civilian casualties, the destruction of the Northwind Military Academy, severe damage to the Northwind Highlander's command complex The Castle and billions of C-Bills worth of damage to the planet and its economy.
The First Kearny Highlanders are virtually destroyed in the Battle for Tara while the Northwind Hussars lose nearly a full Battalion and their commander Colonel Loren Jaffery as the unit was securing the enemy DropShips suicide charges primed by the crews of two ships explode taking the Highlanders with them. The remaining two DropShips surrender without a shot fired but the damage is done.
In the ruins of Tara the Highlanders find several “Drone†BattleMech, others completely lacking cockpits but not through combat damage and others which appear to be of an OmniMech design that has never been seen before. Little of the salvage the Highlanders take is worth putting into battle but the Highlanders plan to study it and learn from what attacked them for themselves. Due to the destruction of the Northwind Military Academy's main campus the Highlanders move all prospective cadets to the Aerospace Training Annex on the Halidon continent for basic training while forming the First Northwind Training Battalion for advanced cadets. Fortunately for the Highlanders Cosara BattleMechs Factories escaped major damage during the fighting for Tara allowing the mercenaries to recoup some of their material losses each of the Highlander regimental commanders and Clan elders realize that Northwind's future defence needs to be shored up drastically and that each Regiment needs to begin to contribute even more to their Homeworld.
Manei Domini Raids
Sian/St Ives
Capellan Confederation/St Ives Compact
9th June 3091
Following the attack on Northwind the Manei Domini do not waste further time in launching their next attacks. Striking from the hidden world of Obeedah a Division worth of Manei Domini strike at each of Sian and at St Ives. These troops are intent not on conquest but on causing massive casualties on both worlds.
One of the units carrying an insignia with a red triangle and a flaming sword with the number '41' strike at Sian. Slipping past Sian's WarShip defences the unit lands not far from the Forbidden City one of the unit's DropShips, a Federated Suns built Camelot-class Command vessel, immediately fires Cruise Missiles into the city firing volley after volley into the Forbidden City. Each warhead carried an incendary warhead causing massive fires across the Capellan Capital. Even as Capellan forces move to engage the raiders the Chancellor, Dao-Shen Liao is reported to be missing, the Capellan's Red Lancers and Dynasty Guard fly into a rage as the fires burn the Forbidden City fully engaging the Manei Domini force. Although fully manned by cybernetically enhanced warriors the Manei Domini unit was no match for the two enraged Capellan regiments and they are quickly overwhelmed. Even as they are torn to pieces the Manei Domini troops intentionally step into fire intended for the Camelot allowing the DropShip to maintain its bombardment of the Forbidden City. As the unit falls the Capellan's Aerospace fighters launch full strike missions against the Camelot bombing the DropShip until it is nothing more than smoking ruin. The battle of Sian is over in eighteen long hours but the damage caused by the initial attack and the resulting fires would take years to repair and the death-toll is numbered at over eight million civilians. Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao is found alive and well within the Forbidden Palace's secure bunker.
The attack on St Ives launched at nearly the same time as that on Sian strikes at the heart of the St Ives Compact, the Allard-Liao residence. Slipping onto the world as a mercenary command Rimmon's Ravagers looking for employment the Ravagers are built exclusively around SLDF-era BattleMech designs with not a single design built after the fall of the first Star League the commander known only as Rimmon claim's the unit found an SLDF cache during a mission with Interstellar Expeditions beyond Magistracy of Canopus space. With Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao still in Capellan Confederation hands on Denbar in-term leader Duchess Kuan-Yin Allard-Liao directs Colonel Cassandra Rubinsky nee Allard-Liao commander of Rubinsky's Light Horse Regiment to assess them for employment.
Cassandra who had refused to take Melissa's position is still dedicated to the St Ives Compact and agrees, as a precaution she moves her Regiment into position around the visitors, she then takes her command Battalion to the Ravager's landing site. Without even allowing the Rubinsky's Light Horse warriors near their DropShips Rimmon's Ravagers open fire on the St Ives Compact battalion killing Cassandra Rubinsky, and her company, in the opening weapons volley. As the Command Battalion retreats in disarray the other three Battalions of the reinforced Regiment fall on Rimmon's Ravagers from all sides as instructed before by Cassandra. Although they are able to destroy the raiding force the Ruibinsky's Light Horse are reduced to two operational Battalions and lack an experienced commander losing not only their commander during the battle but also the executive officer Bernard Cassary completely crippling the unit. Colonel Tamas Rubinsky, Cassandra's husband and head of the St Ives Compact military is a broken man following the attack and unable to fulfill his duties further crippling the St Ives Compact.
Further Attacks
Former Free Worlds League
12th June 3091
As Chaos reins in the Capellan Confederation and St Ives Compact further attacks occur on Atreus, Regulus and New Olympica as the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, Principality of Regulus and Star League Defence Force attempts to oppose the attacks. Duke Leonard Stewart who, along with his Home Guard Regiment, had just secured the world of Bainsville for the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth sees an opportunity for more fame and an opportunity to bring the Commonwealth more under his sway lifts his Home Guard from Bainsville to Atreus to counter the fighting on the fighting on the former capitol world of the former Free Worlds League.
Manei Domini Attack
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
17th June 3091
“Colonel, we need to strike at the Jade Falcons or the Wolves, Kell is offering decent rates for it.†Major Shorty Sneed said.
“For a raid and the Kell Hounds get some of the salvage.†Tasha Snord protested she wanted to get the Snord's Irregulars back on the offensive ever since the Crimond battle with the Wolves the mercenaries had been on the defence within the Arc Royal Theatre. The unit wanted to get back on the offense but no-one credible seemed to want to hire them as they lacked recent combat experience following a series of garrison contracts.
Suddenly high in the air a group of explosions occurred in succession followed by a series of sonic booms as aerospace fighters and DropShips dived into the atmosphere. “No-one comes into Arc Royal like that†Sneed pointed out.
“Only those looking for trouble, they are heading to the training fields†Tasha said with a wicked smile “time to show Kell we are worth all the salvage have the Irregulars mount up, we're going to war.†Tasha said marching towards her Mech.
“That doesn't seem very profitable?†Sneed pointed out marching after Tasha.
“Maybe not but it will prove a point.â€
Nearly thirty minutes later the Snord's Irregulars were assembled as two battered DropShips moved to land on the training grounds Colonel Natasha Snord opened a frequency to her entire unit. “Irregulars we have taken out hits in recent times, but today we prove our might, today the Inner Sphere remember that once our unit was a feared one.†She said as a pair of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) aerospace fighters strafed the landing DropShips.
“Snord's Irregulars, this is Star Colonel Daphne Vickers of Clan Wolf, you are ordered to stand down. This is our territory to defend.â€
“Neg†Tasha Snord replied in the traditional Clan way, her unit had fought against Clansmen and counted many within their numbers for her to know how to deal with an angry one. “Irregulars full assault, today we fight for our future.†Tasha Snord opened fire with her Spartan's weapons across the firing line the Irregulars opened fire together causing massive damage to the DropShips and the forces they were deploying. The entire two battalions of Snord's Irregulars struck with overwhelming force one of the already damaged raiding DropShips exploded as the Irregulars pumped weapons fire into the ship. Other units within Snord's Irregulars targeted several Mechs and Battle Armour units that had made planet fall knocking them down nearly instantly. On either side of the landing area aerospace fighters belonging to Clan Wolf (in-Exile) strafed the raiders lines.
“Snord's Irregulars fall back immediately you have proven your worth.†Vickers reported as the fighters banked away from the battle “your unit has done well.â€
“Vickers move your units into flanking positions and we end this fight now if we let them slip past us now they could cause significant civilian casualties!†Tasha Snord shouted
“Do not think you can give me orders mercenary!†Vickers stated “if you continue I will meet you in a Circle.â€
“Well I ain't a Clanner but if you really want me to kick your ass to next Sunday I happily will†Tasha snapped “now move your damned troops into position now!†She shouted seeing Shorty Sneed's Lancelot crumple to the ground alongside her “Shorty!†She screamed but there was not response, her Mech took several hits staggering it several steps backwards. “Vickers what is your answer?â€
“We are moving into position†Vickers confirmed “but you will face me in a Circle after today.â€
“Gladly†Tasha answered continuing to fire on the invaders. From either side of the Irregulars and from behind the invaders Clan Wolf (in-Exile) BattleMechs and Combat Vehicles assault the invaders crushing what remains of the invading force rapidly. Following the battle's end Khan Phelan Kell as Grand Duke of the Arc Royal Theatre hire the Snord's Irregulars for raids against Clan Jade Falcon and allow the Snord's Irregulars to take salvage from the raid on Arc Royal making up for some of their losses. Unfortunately for the Irregulars and Tasha Snord her long time friend and executive officer Major “Shorty†Sneed succumb to his injuries sustained during the battle for Arc Royal.
-
My thanks to James Tanaga for his continued work with the Fire Mandrill remnants
Unidentified Assaults
Denbar, Capellan Confederation
18th June 3091
Two days had passed since the Capellan WarShip CCSS Tikonov had exploded near the Nadir Point. The Tikonov-class Carrier which had previously been damaged fighting against Federated Suns WarShips in the Vestallas system however it had been completely unprepared for the assaults from an unidentified black coloured WarShip which immediately gone on the attack with a series of Heavy Naval Particle Cannon, Naval Autocannon and Naval Laser fire. Between the Tikonov's initial report of an intruder in the system and the Denbar ground tracking systems losing contact less than an hour had passed. The Tikonov's support DropShips and surviving Aerospace fighters had scattered with the ground teams expecting a blood bath as the WarShip hunted down each remaining craft. Instead a worse nightmare had come true as the WarShip pushed in system.
Before landing on the world the WarShip had settled into a stationary position over the capital city of Denbar a wide-beam broadcast had been sent to the planet “this is Galaxy Commander Grayson Rosse commander of Upsilon Galaxy of Clan Nova Cat. I declare a Trial of Possession for Melissa of the Allard-Liao bloodline. You will surrender her to me or face the consequences.†He had ordered before DropShips began descending into the atmosphere carrying three Clusters of Nova Cats. Grayson had sent his Galaxy's other units to the Davetal system under the Command of Star Colonel Katrine Devalis, his great rival, she had disagreed with his choice something that had not surprised him.
“Galaxy Commander, you have no authority over Denbar, your actions are already a declaration of war! Withdraw immediately or face the consequences.†The commander of the Fourth Liao “The St Andre†Lancers Li Ming Ortega had replied even as Nova Cat units dropped through the air.
Grayson Rosse was not a stupid man he'd listened to his father many times and knew how the Inner Sphere acted and fought. As the Fourth Lancers had replied the powerful sensors on the Lucian Carns, his WarShip, had pinpointed the location of the transmission. Even as Nova Cat OmniMechs and Elementals dropped through the air OmniFighters from the Lucian Carns straffed the Capellan base killing the Fourth Lancers commander and her command lance in a dedicated strike, not the most honourable tactic but an effective one.
The Nova Cat air raid had rallied the Capellan defenders more than expected despite not having an active regiment commander the battalion commanders gained control quickly. The experienced Nova Cat Clusters, the Nova Cat Rangers and Nova Cat Renegades Cluster, engaged the Capellans in a running battle with Grayson leading the fight while the less experienced unit, the 201st Assault Cluster, was held in reserve protecting the Nova Cat landing zone.
The two opposing forces fought for nearly six hours over Denbar until Grayson Rosse reached the Capellan Confederation base eliminating the last defenders. In all the Nova Cats had lost nearly six full Trinaries of troops the entire Nova Cat Rangers had been destroyed while the Renegades were heavily under strength. The 201st Assault Cluster had been pulled from reserve to assist in finishing off the Fourth Liao Lancers. Arriving at the base in time for Grayson to witness Melissa Allard-Liao give birth to the pair's son, a son that Grayson never knew she was expecting, their happiness is cut short as a sniper shot cuts down the Nova Cat Galaxy Commander feet from Melissa Allard-Liao. The Nova Cat counter-attack is devastating destroying the entire building that the sniper had been based from killing the more than a hundred people to kill a single person. The instant brutality of it shocks Melissa Allard-Liao as much as Grayson Rosse's death so close to their reunion.
Rapidly evacuated from the planet Melissa Allard-Liao, her newborn son and the remains of Melissa's unit are taken back to St Ives the Nova Cats following Grayson Rosse's last orders. Arriving on St Ives on the 29th June the arrival of the Lucian Carns is a massive surprise for the people of St Ives who are still reeling from the attack on St Ives by the Manei Domini, the return of their Duchess is seen as a massive boost to their morale as is the presence of the Clan forces. Unfortunately for the people of St Ives the remains of Upsilon Galaxy and the Lucian Carns have no intention of staying in the system once Melissa is safely on St Ives the Nova Cat vessel jump clear heading straight for New Barcella to answer for their actions. The WarShip avoids contact with other units and inhabited systems ignoring all calls from St Ives or from any of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns units it encounters during their journey home.
What Grayson Rosse had planned for himself and the unit was unknown he would have returned to New Barcella only to face a barrage of Trials and challenges he could not have survived. Upsilon Galaxy's actions following the loss of their commander clearly shows that the unit had no intention remaining within the Compact instead their reasons and actions are left unanswerable due to the death of Grayson Rosse. Regardless St Ives found the boost they needed in their darkest hour two days after returning to St Ives Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao reestablished as leader of the St Ives Compact announces her newly born son and heir as Lucian Allard-Liao, named for the WarShip that brought them home, to the people of St Ives. When questioned about the child's father Melissa replies that the man she loved died saving her and their child ending any further questioning.
Fire Mandrill Scout Mission
Finmark, Periphery
20th June 3091
These Fins bargained well, Cassandra thought to herself as she led her trinary supernova back to its assigned DropShip, one of many Fortress-class DropShips her kindraa had taken a liking to since she became its leader. Just over three months ago, she left All Dawn with her trinary supernova and the newly built Nineteenth Striker Cluster led by Star Colonel Brian Tanaga to this dusty, barren world. Finmark had once been the capital of a Province of the Rim Worlds Republic but the years had not been good to it. For weeks, she negotiated with the surviving locals, nearly ten thousand who fought everyday for survival but had twenty ancient, but well maintained Rampage assault BattleMechs at their disposal. They had finally reached an agreement, the Fins had completely refused to allow her possession of the BattleMech factory at first, she had been informed by the Rim Collection leadership to remove remove the factory from the world as Finmark was too far away properly defend. Unfortunately the locals didn't plan to allow themselves to be robbed nor did Cassandra fancy tangling with their defence force finally they had agreed to being resettled along with their factory to a world within the Rim Collection. They would retain rights over their factory and like her kindraa, they would provide services to the Rim Collection, in the form of supplying BattleMechs and maintenance facilities for their position.
The President’s Council would have to vote to officially accept the agreement, but Cassandra knew they would accept it, for it meant getting a supply of decent assault BattleMechs for them. And us, she thought. Her Kindraa would provide the necessary technology to update the BattleMechs to a modern standard, though she knew she would have to fight Jerold Danforth on that sharing their technology likely wouldn't be popular. Thinking of the man reminded her she had been forced to leave him in charge of their primary enclave on All Dawn. She had wanted Star Admiral Theodore Albiev to remain on All Dawn in her absence, but with him being needed to command the exploration of what was once the Timbuktu Province and also helping to negotiate various worlds into the Rim Collection with Ambassador Robert Strauss, that meant the crusader warrior she long despised but respected was in charge until she returned from this mission. Her lover, Loremaster Jacob Faraday, and his Sixteenth Assault supernova were on a training exercise with the First Rim Lancers on Gillfillan’s Gold trying to foster further relations with the Rim Collection while the other units had remained on All Dawn as protection for their civilians. Cassandra had ordered a solid defence remain on planet at all times and for them to use any and all tactics to provide what remained of their Kindraa Jerold Danford had not liked the "Any and All tactics" orders but he understood them, at least she hoped he did.
At least I was able to see how Star Colonel Brian Tanaga commands the Nineteenth, she thought. A logical thinker, the young Star Colonel did well, keeping his warriors in line while keeping the removal of the ancient Rim Wourlds Republic BattleMech factory smooth. A task that would be nearly completed in a few days, she thought. A task well suited to the new cluster. The Nineteenth and its sister clusters, the First and Seventh Striker clusters, were conceived by Star Captain Lysa Djerassi to help protect and patrol the newly rediscovered worlds and member states of the Rim Collection without weakening their units much, though it meant stripping apart the Kindraa’s Specialist Cluster and keeping its battle clusters at two supernovas in strength. Each cluster held a trinary supernova of OmniMechs and Salamanders, two specialist trinaries, and an independent star of OmniFighters. Assigned their own Odyssey-class JumpShip and their necessary DropShips, including a Titan Monitor, meant the three striker clusters would be highly mobile units.
Halfway to the DropShip, her radio crackled to life. “Kindraa Leader, two JumpShips, escorted by a Samarkand II-class Carrier, just jumped into the system by the zenith jump point. Be advised, we have identified them as belonging to the dezgra Rhinos,†Came the voice of Star Commodore Malcolm Lynn, the commander of the CFM Resolute, the flagship of her kindraa’s naval forces and their primary capital ship, who sounded confused. A few moments went by, than his voice returned. “Kindraa Leader,they now call themselves Clan Stone Spirit. Also, all three monitors that were guarding the zenith jump point are now in combat fighting the carrier. Their DropShips are making a beeline towards Finmark. Advise you prepare defensive positions as the monitors are unlikely to defeat a vessel the size of a Samarkand, quiaff?â€
Lovely. “Aff,†she spoke out loud. “Make damn sure that damn carrier does not get into range for an orbital bombardment. We do not need another York to happen, this time against us, quiaff?â€
“Aff ovkhan. You can count on that,†was Malcolm’s reply the Resolute was a bigger badder ship than the Samarkand II any day of the week but Cassandra did not like this, what the hell were Clan Stone Rhino or Blood Spirit or Stone Spirit WHATEVER!! She almost shouted, what were they doing out here? She thought her Kindraa safe from such threats could there be a well equipped Clan near her own?
She shook her head and switched channels to connect to all her commanders on the ground and in the air. “Alright, everyone. Change of plans. Damned Stone Rhinos, Stone Spirits, whatever they call themselves now, just showed up and want to pick a fight. Someone get the Fins on the comm. We likely will need their help. And tell them to move their asses if they want off this world, quiaff? Star Colonel Brian Tanaga, I want our DropShips planet side to get as close to the factory as possible. Hopefully, that will dissuade them from orbital bombardment if the carrier gets into position to do so. Quiaff?â€
As her fellow warriors replied their affirmations of their orders, only one thought came through her head. Just need to stall them long enough to get the factory and the Fins to our JumpShips. Easy quiaff?
Three days later, her thoughts became a reality. The Stone Spirit carrier Major Spirit had destroyed the first two Titan Monitors with relative ease before the last Titan Monitor gotten close to the carrier causing some telling damage before being caught by the Carrier's defence fire. The Titan Monitor had no chance once under the guns of the WarShip its commander had tried to ram the bigger vessel but the Major Spirit's gunners were too fast and had gunned the DropShip down. For now, the Major Spirit was playing a game of tag with the Resolute while the remaining Titans and Titan Monitors had stationed themselves with her Kindraa’s JumpShips or were helping with aerial support.
The Stone Spirit DropShips, meanwhile had managed to land close to the factory. Closer than comfortable, if she were to be honest with herself right now. Already, Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga’s abundant air support was making havoc for the Spirits, and, soon, the artillery. Unfortunately, with roughly three clusters of ground forces available to them, Cassandra knew it would be a tough battle ahead. Three battle tested clusters versus barely two clusters. Fortunately, her unit and the Nineteenth were classed as elite unites and judging by the way their aerospace forces fought and the Mechs identified, Cassandra hazard to guess she was fighting a mostly green to regular force, with possibly a veteran trinary or two thrown in. Still, this will be a fight for the ages, she thought, for quantity held a quality all to itself.
And here they come, she thought to herself, as the two lone Fortress-class DropShips she had on the ground opened up. Roughly fifteen hundred meters away, she thought. Her radio came to life. “Star Colonel, Defender Wing is in position. Over.â€
He’s anxious, she thought. Lovely. “Aff,†she answered the Fin instead, trying to calm the man. “Keep to the plan, Commander Takala.†Her plan was simple. While the Nineteenth, with the BattleMechs from the Fin’s Defender Wing, would hold the line at all cost, with the air support and artillery fire hopefully inflict enough damage to fight them off, her supernova would create a distraction, hopefully leading enough away and buying time for the factory to finally be evacuated. Defeating them was very unlikely at this point until the Resolute was on station and that could was not possible at this moment. They only needed another hour before the factory and the civilians would be evacuated onto the DropShips and be able to evacuate off the planet.
Thousand meters away now. All around her, Mechs with long rang weaponry opened fire; the Stone Spirits doing the same. As the battle progressed and the Stone Spirits neared, she could see just how dilapidated some of the Spirits equipment was. Half she considered barely fit for combat duties. The other half however would have pit the Stone Spirits on par with any front-line Clan OmniMechs. She guessed the barely functional wrecks were piloted by the older warriors and that the Stone Spirits despite being cast out of Clan society were throwing their older warriors at their enemies as cannon fodder in traditional Clan form. The artillery barrage was causing some telling damage on these units cutting them away quickly this had two effects first it allowed her people to target the real threats... second it opened her own people to those same units. Immediately that was shown as an Adder off to her side was torn to pieces by an enemy Shadow Cat's Gauss Rifle she watched her pilot eject as the light OmniMech disintegrated but it was hardly a nice image. Immediately she returned fire she saw several others join her in their desperate defence cutting the Shadow Cat down in a hail of fire. The medium OmniMech fell to the ground and did not get back up.
Finally, the artillery fire left off, signaling the Spirits finally reached the eight hundred meter mark. The dezgra Spirits and her forces soon were engaged in fierce combat with one another the Stone Spirits not showing they cared engaging in physical attacks with her own units. Now was the time, she decided. Clicking on her radio to all frequencies, she spoke. “This is Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday to dezgra mudbloods. Are there any true warriors amongst you? I ask, for I only see surats trying to behave like freebirth babies on their first day of training.†Near-instantly, heavy fire rained on her position. I got their attention, she thought, as she led her trinary of mechs away from the fighting into the poisoned grasslands, nearly two full clusters of angry Stone Spirits behind her and her warriors.
“Commander Takala. Change of plans. Bring your Defender Wing along my flanks. We will encircle those that did not follow the Kindraa Leader. Do it now,†she heard Brian Tanaga ordered the Fin over the radio. Slowly, she and her trinary led the roughly two clusters of Stone Spirits away from the main battle, all the while humiliating the Spirits over the radio, keeping just out of firing range for the most part. She and her trinary did well until she noticed the Stone Spirits stop and start to turn around realizing their mistake.
This is it, she thought. “Well you look at that. The mudbloods are running away like scolded children to their mother’s teat. Beth, I told you they were babies,†she chuckled through the radio, knowing full well she was on their radio channel.
“Aff. Though from here, it looks like they just shit themselves. Whew! They stink. Yup they are most definitely the rugrat patrol. Aww. Looks like they need a bath. Pity they rather return to mommy then play in the water, quiaff?†On any other day, she would have berated Beth and kicked her down to help with the Technicians for a week or two for her words just now. Today though, she picked Beth specifically for just being herself. And by the sudden turning around of the enemy, it worked.
“Kindraa Leader, permission to charge and teach these surat babies how to be proper Clan warriors,†this came from Star Commander Jeffrey. Major ouch to their psyches, she thought with a feral smile. Her entire trinary seemed to be full of themselves and for once, she let them.
“That’s it you damn ****** monkeys! I, Star Colonel Tanya Furey of the Eighth Stone Guards declare a Trial of Grievance for your words today, Kindraa Leader. Will you stay and fight as a PROPER warrior would? Or run like annoying little children like you have been for the last forty minutes,†the voice of an exacerbated and angry old woman called out over the radio. Furey was a Jaguar Bloodname, the Jaguars had been dead for decades Cassandra knew that the Stone Rhinos had many Smoke Jaguars in their number, before that Clan's destruction, but she wondered just how old was this warrior?
Cassandra Faraday allowed herself a feral smile. “I guess I am an annoying little child compared to you, am I not? Grandma?†Instantly, her trinary mates started laughing over the radio and the old woman, whose pride had been battered for nearly an hour, cursed her. As the laughing died down, she called out into her radio. “Fine Grandma. This young girl will teach an old bitch like you some new tricks. Shall we dance?â€
“Seyla,†cried out the furious old warrior and soon thereafter a Predator, most likely a gift once from her own kindraa from a time long passed by, separated itself from the crowd of Stone Spirit mechs looking at the Mech Cassandra swallowed heavily despite everything they had been through today and in the battles before the heavy Predator looked in excellent condition its two Autocannons looking very deadly. “We fight here. Now. With no interference. And no running.â€
Now it was her turn to accept and so she did. “Agreed. Seyla.†As she said the last, a smirk came across her face, and so she added mischievously, “Grandma†her only hope today would be to keep the woman angry, and Jaguars were always angry.
As the trial of grievance started, her radio crackled, startling her. “Zeta-two here. Factory is secured and all civvies on-board and accounted for, both ours and the Fins.â€
“Copy that,†she answered to the star captain commanding the DropShips as her BattleMech was hammered by autocannon rounds from the Predator. Thinking for a second, she then spoke to him. “Get those DropShips in the air now.†Without bothering to hear him confirm her orders, she switched to the frequency of her own DropShips. “Nineteenth Striker and Defender Wing, pull out now! I say again! Get the hell off this rock as fast as you can!†She called out before her Mech was hit again this time by the Predator's lasers she returned fire seeing her weapons causing heavy damage to the Stone Spirit Mech's left hand side.
Before either Star Colonel Brian Tanaga or Commander Takala could confirm her last order, the Predator’s returned fire again its main weapons reloaded autocannon fire slammed into her Summoner and smoke filled her cockpit. As she fought to control her battered Mech, maybe she had gotten this warrior too angry, she felt pain in her abdomen. Looking down for a brief second, she could see blood flowing and her screen showing she had taken the round directly to her cockpit, shredding it and key electronic systems her targeting system was already showing the effects cutting out intermittently. Twisting her Mech's cockpit she fired as her Mech moved she was beyond lucky to not be dead yet, though she doubted she would live beyond this battle, what with the amount of blood she saw and the feeling of blood she felt trickling into her mouth.
The Predator warrior's next shots thankfully missed targeting the Stone Spirit Predator in response, she fired all her weapons in an alpha strike. Surprisingly, the second line heavy battlemech turned at the last second, allowing its barely damaged right hand side to soak nearly all the damage with minimal damage to any other system. Crap, she thought to herself, as the lighter battlemech turned to once again face her with its weapons. It's two autocannons leveled at her.
Just as quickly, she activating her Mech’s jump jets, raising the heat to beyond the safety limits. She was unlucky, though, for again even in the air her Mech came under the enemy’s autocannon fire, this time tearing off the left leg of her Mech, sending her tumbling to the ground when she landed.
The landing made her spit out black blood. Still, she battled as best she could against her own Mech, willing it to get up, even as her body started to shut down due to her injuries. Just as she forced her battered Summoner up in a sitting position, only to be hit again, this time her humanoid OmniMech was slammed in the "mid-rift" area knocking the Mech backwards as her armour was cored by the impacts.
Her radio crackled to life then, allowing her to hear her trinary mates try to fight and defend her breaking the Circle of Equals, what had she said "any and all tactics" she thought. Had her people begun down a path that would eventually end what they were? What they had been created for? She didn't know, but she did know that she would not see it, her star mates actions had dishonoured themselves but that did not last long as the Stone Spirits likewise broke the Circle in response cutting down her entire Trinary in a hellish display of concentrated fire. As blood started pouring from her mouth, a new voice sounded through the radio. “Kindraa Leader, the Nineteenth and the Fins Defender Wing are on our DropShips and heading to your position. Over.†Star Colonel Brian Tanaga announced.
Switching to the general frequency used by her Kindraa, she forced herself to speak through the pain using the last of her energy. “Neg Star Colonel, my trinary is dead and I soon will be joining them. Tell Star Colonel,†she paused, spitting out blood from her mouth. “Tell Jerold Danforth, I leave the kindraa in his hands, will you?â€
“Kindraa Leader, repeat the last,†came the hesitant voice of the younger Star Colonel.
“You heard me. And tell him and the others. We need the collection. And they need us,†she managed to whisper the last at last succumbing to her injuries.
Minutes ticked by, slowly, until finally Brian Tanaga was brought to his senses. “Acknowledged,†Star Colonel managed to get out. Switching to all frequencies, he spoke. “All friendly forces, I am assuming command until I am relieved by Star Commodore Malcolm Lynn. Star Commander Su, get us to the Resolute as quickly as possible. Over,†he bit out. Switching frequencies to the one the Stone Spirits used, he spoke determinedly and angrily. “Clan Stone Spirit. You have won a great victory today and snatched our noble leader away from us. Take heart and celebrate, for the next time. Next time will be your deaths.â€
Two days later, the JumpShips of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga, escorted by the Resolute, jumped from the system, abandoning the dead world to the Spirits.
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Kingdom of St Jamis-Liao
Andruien, Kingdom of St Jamis-Liao
22nd June 3091
With Sian's HPG destroyed and the world out of contact with the Inner Sphere due to the Manei Domini attack Prince Cameron St Jamis-Liao chooses the moment to make his move landing on Andruien, the former Free Worlds League province capital. As soon as his forces land on the planet the Prince's destroy the Eighth Liao Lancers which had recently been formed on the planet as the first Liao loyal unit raised on the world. Prince Cameron announces that the system of Andruien and the nearby systems of Shiro III, Conquista, Lurgatan, Sadurni, Shiba, Niomede and Principle have all left the Capellan Confederation to form the Kingdom of St Jamis-Liao. He announces the formation of the First, Second and Third Armies and opens recruitment to anyone from any member of the population from the worlds that have joined. He goes on to announce the creation of the Kingdom of St Jamis-Liao navy based around the Sgian-dubh, the Bi Shou-class Corvette that had gone AWOL to join his cause when he began his campaign against House Liao, and two Essex-class Destroyers of unknown origin which are named the Cameron and the Kali after his parents.
Using the HPG on Andruien Prince Cameron St. Jamis-Liao sends messages to Oriente, St Ives, Canopus, Taurus, Fronc and Regulus offering peace to each of his new nation's nearest neighbours while Sian is out of contact. He neglects to mention to any of these nations, or his new nation's population, the presence of a Manei Domini unit on Andruien which lands away from the hype of Cameron's arrival and slips into the background.
Capellan Raids
New Aragon, Axton PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
26th June 3091
Following the loss of contact with Sian and a reported Clan attack on Denbar Capellan raids against the Federated Suns Capellan March had intensified. The First Ceti Hussars had been redeployed to New Aragon, Halloran and Algol to shore up defences. Among the Second Combat Command Leftenant Fredrick Davion again engaged the Capellan Confederation raiders. During the course of the battle Fredrick's lance again encounters a group of Kruger Armoured Cars and again combines with them extremely well with his lance destroying eight Capellan Mechs and six vehicles during the AFFS defence against the raids.
Redeployment
Atreus, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
28th June 3091
With heavy fighting reported on Atreus the Second Royal Black Watch Regimental Brigade, under the command of Lt. General John-Paul Jones, which had been en-route to New Olympica to shore up SLDF defences there is redeployed to Atreus to assist the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. The unit comprised of a BattleMech Regiment, three Armour Regiments, two Battalions of Battle Armour and an air wing is a significant reinforcement to the former Free Worlds League capital and it is hoped the unit can end the fighting there. The unit lands on Atreus in the evening of the 28th hooking up with local defences.
Hope you enjoyed, more to come
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Time for another update - again it's big so split in two
Duke's Mansion
Bolan City, Bolan Province
Lyran Commonwealth
2nd July 3091
The world of Bolan had always been a fractured one the various city states that controlled their population always vying to one up the other or secure resources. Duke Alder Umayr and his family had done their best to their best to keep the families and city states happy but at times it difficult. With everything going on at the moment the presence of the Second Biron's Legion Mercenary Command, under Colonel Octavius Brion, had helped keep things from getting out of control. Working through his paperwork Alder Umayr had barely noticed the passage of time and the sun had faded from outside, there was a knock at the doors, then they swung open. Stepping into the room was a beautiful young woman with dark hair, his assistant. “Mary†he greeted her she didn't answer immediately instead reaching to the side she switched on the room's lights.
“It's late Duke Umayr†she said quietly in her hands she held a tray with a cup of steaming coffee he could already smell the sweet smell coming from the cup. She moved over slowly, seductively, she always did wear tight form fitting clothing and tonight was no difference a single piece black and red jumpsuit with a light brown coloured loose business jacket over it each slow step she took he could see her well toned muscles move in beautiful motion. Some of his other aides, and his wife, had commented that “Mary Durant needs to learn how to dress appropriately for the position she filled†he however had to admit he enjoyed to watch. “What are you working on?†She inquired snapping him from his thoughts.
“There was another scuffle between Quetta and Sibi last night. It took a Battalion of Brion's Legion to break them up. Say what you will about mercenaries Mary but I've very glad that they took our contract offer.â€
“The people have been very fortunate†she said placing the tray down on the table putting the cup in front of him. The duke immediately reached for the glass “and they have your steady hand to thank for it.†She said smiling she was a beautiful woman with the prettiest smile. “It's really a shame...†she began turning away from him Alder stole a glance down her tall body enjoying himself as she did quickly taking a drink from the glass as she turned back towards him trying to cover his voyeuristic action.
“What's that Mary?†he asked swallowing the hot liquid quickly he could feel it burning his mouth and his throat and all the way down to his stomach.
“That everything has to end†she whispered smiling again. This time Alder saw not a beautiful smile but one of... pleasure? He could feel the burning increasing in his stomach the coffee was not settling properly he tried to reach to the left of his desk for a glass of water but his arm wouldn't move he looked at his limb but there was no movement, he couldn't even feel it, what he could feel was the burning in his chest increasing “don't fight it Alder, don't try to call out, or to make any movement. Just enjoy that feeling†she said leaning over his desk at him he could smell her sweet perfume and hazard a gaze between the zips of her jumpsuit “yes Alder you enjoy that too†she whispered leaning in towards him “for its the last thing you will feel and the last thing you will see. But your people, your people's journey and suffering have only just begun.†She said his eyes locked with hers for a moment as the burning continued spreading through his system the pain was unbearable but it seemed never ending “the unbelievers will perish†she whispered as unconsciousness began to draw on his body “starting with your sell sword warriors and never ending†she said as Alder Umayr's eyes began to darken “Peace of Blake be with you†was the last words the Duke of Bolan heard as his body gave out from him and finally the pain, and his life, ended. Even as the duke's body fell Mary Durant was stripping off the business jacket covering her jumpsuit revealing a broadsword insignia on the left breast and a concealed weapon's belt around her waist. “This is Specter Forty-Four, the clock is set, the hand has struck, now use the hammer and ring the bell†she said out loud before marching from the office. The building was empty at this time of night, a shame should would have liked to see others. Across the city the Second Brion's Legion came under direct assault from an unidentified unit which struck fast before retreating just as quickly disappearing into the night. Across the continent near the cites of Quetta and Sibi company sized units painted in the scheme of the planetary militia struck at the two city states running amok through the cities causing massive damage before disappearing into the night.
The next day Bolan was in a state of complete chaos as each of the city states lashed out at each other the report that the planetary duke was dead from heart failure spread quickly and no-one seemed to know how to stop the fighting. The remains of the Second Brion's Legion attempted to control the fighting however each of the city-states revealed far more arms than anyone had ever expected them to have leading the planet down the road toward civil war. Stuck in the middle of the fighting, the planetary militia made up of people from Bolan the unit did not know where to turn without direction from the planetary government and duke.
Planetary Disturbance
Galatean City, Galatea
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
10th July 3091
A fist-fight in a downtown Galatean City bar results in the death of a MechWarrior from recently formed Mech unit Van Halen's Heavy Cavalry. The Heavy Cavalry had formed by free agent mercenaries, former house troops and even a couple of clansmen called Galatea home and demanded that the authorities on Galatea acted against the guilty party. After hours of accusations and disagreements several other mercenary groups had waded into the disagreement besieging the militia base demanding action on the part of the planetary defenders who continued to say that law enforcement was responsible for dealing with deaths within commercial properties regardless if they were mercenaries or members of the general public. All that was needed was a single spark this was applied when a Buccaneer and Gurkha BattleMech belonging to Azazel's Watchers Mercenary command engaged Mechs from another Company. The reaction was instant and deadly as warriors from all corners began firing in all directions in the crossfire both the Buccaneer and the Gurkha fell rapidly but it didn't matter more and more mercenaries waded into the fight causing severe to everyone involved and the militia base. For eight hours the battle raged along Galatean City streets bringing more and more people into he battle, as things began to calm down Azazel's Watchers, actually the under disguise Manei Domini Forty-Seventh Shadow Division, wade into the battle its commander informing all mercenaries and the militia forces involved that the deaths of his brothers would not go unanswered. As the Manei Domini force targets anyone who moves within Galatean City the riots not only start again but they intensify causing yet more disruption and death on the Mercenary Star.
Seeing the fighting beginning again Colonel Elizabeth McCarron, commander of McCarron's Armoured Cavalry, chooses to abandon her unit's landhold on Galatea heading towards the Federated Suns choosing to seek Faith Steiner for advice on a future contract. Major Steven Risner the McCarron's Special Forces, a Mech Battalion and an Infantry force remain behind to remove the last of the McCarron's equipment while Elizabeth McCarron takes the rest of the unit and their dependents ahead. Soon after one of the units that the trouble on Galatea started around, Van Halen's Heavy Cavalry commanded by Colonel Alex van Halen, also abandon the planet. Due to a technical problem they are forced to leave one of their Excalibur-class DropShips behind along with a combined arms battalion worth of equipment. While the majority of the unit squeeze on board the Van Halen's remaining transport craft a skeleton crew remain on board in an attempt to repair the DropShip and secure transport to follow the regiment which heads for Skye.
Resistance Fighting
Regulus, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
13th July 3091
As the Regulan defenders struggle to effectively fight the Manei Domini force on their capital world without causing massive casualties among their civilian population Prince Titus Cameron-Jones is killed trying to stop the invaders. The Regulan defenders fighting only intensifies following the death of their liege lord as the Manei Domini force, tentatively identified as the Forty-Second Shadow Division continues operations.
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Unidentified Jump
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
18th July 3091
Ground and space-borne sensor stations throughout the New Avalon screamed into life as a ship jumped into the system at a pirate point near the planet. “That ship matches the Pegasus' jump signal and profile.†One crewmen said looking at their orbiting sentry station.
“Impossible, the Pegasus can barely navigate within a system after the pounding the Draconis Combine gave her.†The other crewmen said the Columbia-class Battleship was to his knowledge currently in the Igualada system and would likely remain there for some time to come.
“She's broadcasting an IFF...†the other crewmen said reading the data “Rycon?†He said looking up “that's impossible, that ship's a myth!†He almost shouted
“The Pegasus was a myth once, look how that turned out†the other said “the Alexander Davion is moving to intercept, they'll confirm the IFF pass to ground stations that we are still interrogating the intruder.†He said as the icon of the FSS Alexander Davion moved closer to the unknown vessel claiming to be the Rycon, the FSS Pegasus long lost sistership.
“Already passed†he said as the Alexander Davion closed within what would be visual range moments later the monitoring station's monitors came to life showing a Columbia-class Battleship painted in the dark reds and black of House Davion's navy. “My god†the crewmen whispered in amazement seeing the image, moments later the screen lit up turning pure white before completely going black. “What the hell just happened?†Looking at the sensor data from the Alexander Davion he could see what had happened the Davion III-class Destroyer had taken four hits from the Rycon's forward Heavy Naval Particle Cannon array. As the current flagship vessel of the Federated Suns Navy tried to turn away from the Battleship a second volley of PPCs followed up with Naval laser fire tore the destroyer to pieces. “Oh my god†the station's officer said quietly as the sensors detected several Killer Whale capital missiles targeted on the Alexander Davion's two DropShips, although they could survive one or two hits, six missiles targeted each of the two vessels quickly ended their threat also.
“Pass to High Command highest priority get the First Prince and his family into the bunkers!†The station's senior monitoring officer ordered with the Alexander Davion gone the station's own sensors and others began to track the Rycon as it began to accelerate towards the planet. “Inform them that the Rycon has launched four DropShips and is en-route towards New Avalon. It'll be here in less than twenty-four hours.â€
For the next fourteen hours New Avalon's detection continued to monitor the Rycon's approach the FSS Andrew Redburn, a Congress Block II-class Frigate, was the only ship in position to protect the planet with the planet's primary defensive vessel the FSS Destiny, a First Prince Block II-class Battleship, on the other side of the system conducting tests on several faults the AFFS would prefer to hide from public knowledge. Under orders to engage the Rycon before it struck the planet the FSS Andrew Redburn and two Excalibur-class Pocket WarShips attacked the incoming Columbia-class Battleship and its escorting DropShips. Immediately in a tactic that mirrored the one used by the SLS Wasp on its first encounter with an enemy target drone aerospace fighters from the Rycon conducted ramming missions against the two Pocket WarShips destroying both rapidly at the cost of eight drone fighters. Meanwhile the Rycon traveling at nearly 4G's acceleration passed by the FSS Andrew Davion opening fire with its broadside array of naval lasers smashing into the side of the Congress-class vessel causing massive damage and several hull breaches. The speed of the Rycon made targeting the Andrew Davion harder however the high volume of fire from the Columbia was too much for the smaller craft even with several misses they burned through the Frigate's armour enough for Killer Whale missiles to destroy the WarShip. Without a WarShip or DropShips to support them the surviving aerospace fighters of the FSS Andrew Davion were quickly picked off by the Rycon and its support fighters before the vessel carried on towards New Avalon.
Ten hours later the Rycon arrived near New Avalon slowing as it moved through the planet's gravity well the battleship carried no ground forces instead the ship's DropShips and fighters descended into the planet's atmosphere intending on causing damage to the Davion capitol world. AFFS aerospace fighters rose from the planet's surface engaging the drone craft while New Avalon unveiled its System Defence System, which most intelligence agencies had long suspected the world had, engaged the Rycon. The New Avalon defences made up of Naval-class lasers and capital missile systems struck out at the orbiting Battleship causing heavy damage to the vessel's port side as the vessel orbited past Mount Davion, one of the Rycon's DropShips was torn to pieces as naval lasers cut through the ship.
The Rycon's response was to volley fire Naval laser and naval missile fire into the the mountain causing massive damage to the mountainside and send their remaining three DropShips and fighters against the mountain fortress. Despite their efforts they failed to breach the Fox's Den buried beneath the mountain or neutralize all New Avalon's SDS facilities at the cost of all three of their remaining DropShips and several fighters. As the Rycon's DropShips were destroyed several of the WarShip's drone Fighters launched suicide attacks on ground targets including the Royal Palace, fortunately a lance of Legionnaire BattleMechs supported by a company of newly deployed Zibler Fast Strike Tanks formed the primary defence force around the palace taking down the majority of the targets before they reached the Davion family home. Other places on New Avalon such as the Corean factory, the primary planetary spaceport, the Davion Guard's primary defence base and support facilities leading to the Fox's Den all suffered heavy damage before the Rycon left orbit abandoning any fighter unable to return to the Battleship. As the Rycon left New Avalon orbit the WarShip passed the FSS Sandhurst, the Artemis-class Diplomatic Escort vessel, provided to the Federated Suns by ComStar and kept in orbit over New Avalon more as a mark of respect than for any true use as a WarShip. The Rycon's naval particle cannon arrays made short work of the tiny craft tearing it in two before the crew could even react to the Columbia-class Battleship's pass. The WarShip continued away from New Avalon fending off a second Pocket WarShip attack before jumping away from the system from a pirate point.
The damage done to New Avalon and the facilities on the world would take months to repair or replace but the psychological impact on the people would likely take far longer to repair. For the first time since the First Succession War New Avalon had been struck by an enemy force, what was worse it had been one of their own ships and they had no idea where the ship had come from. Directed by the First Prince himself the DMI and MIIO began a massive operation within the Federated Suns borders to search the systems of the realm for signs on where the Rycon had come from however with hundreds of inhabited systems alone they needed help leading to the Federated Suns approaching Interstellar Expeditions for help in the search.
Throughout the system DropShips swept space recovering parts of destroyed drone fighters which were all transported to the New Avalon Institute of Sciences. While on New Avalon the AFFS Water navy searched the Avalon Ocean for further signs of wreckage they hit gold after six months of searching in January 3092 when they found one of the partially intact DropShips. It wasn't until the end of 3092 when the wreck was raised from the water that the AFFS Analysts discovered that the ship had carried no crew and had been operated as a drone, this ship showed the AFFS a drone bigger than anything since the first Star League and immediately became a prize R&D asset. Like the fighters before it the remains of the DropShip were transported to NAIS for further analysis.
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby Assaults
Lyran Commonwealth Border
19th July 3091
Following former-Captain-General Jeremy Brett death on Tamarind to heart failure his son Anthony Brett-Marik had assumed full and complete control over the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby. Although a seasoned combat officer Anthony was still a young ambitious man and following his advisers announcement of the withdrawal of the LCS Flygia to Dixie the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby hatched a plan to strike at the weak underbelly of the Commonwealth.
Striking rapidly the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby moves into the systems of Poulsbo, Pencedar, Timbiqui, Penobscot, Zdice Cavanaugh II and finally Bolan. Finding the only resistance on Poulsbo, Timbiqui and Cavanagh II all three fell rapidly to the Tamarind-Abby forces turning the battle into a rout for the Lyran Commonwealth defenders. While fighting would continue on these three worlds for several months after the initial landings the most surprising world hit by the Tamarind-Abby forces was Bolan.
The Lyran Province Capital had split from its central authority and faced continuous rioting and several terrorist bombings had claimed almost all of the Second Brion's Legion Mercenary Command and the inhabitants of the various city states were glad to see the Tamarind-Abby forces which brought order to the planet. With their forces out of position the Lyran Commonwealth names Dixie as the headquarters of the Cavanaugh II Theatre and Halfway as the Province Capital. Archon Peter Steiner-Davion sent a strongly worded message to Tamarind informing the Captain-General that the House Steiner had not forgotten these worlds and would be back.
Gang War
Devil's Rock
Star League Protectorate
24th July 3091
When Devil's Rock had joined the Star League Protectorate the worlds government had asked the SLDF for assistance in countering the criminal gangs which dominated the world and corrupted every section of its government. For the most part the SLDF had been successful with the deployment of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade's Twenty-first Striker Regiment and the First Royal Pathfinder Battle Armour Regiment and the SLDF was ready to declare victory with the formation of the First Devil's Rock Guard Regiment.
These celebrations were cut short however as the gang troubles erupted into full war in July 3091 with three separate gangs operating military equipment within Devil's Rock's capital city the SLDF's first reaction is to send the Devil's Rock Guard Regiment in to stop the fighting. The unit had been trained to deal with the gangs as well as defend the world and they would have to take over the world's defence once the Eridani Light Horse assignment ended. With the Twenty-first Striker and the First Pathfinder holding back the Guards moved to engage the gangs one at a time. The first gang conflict was broken quickly and efficiently showing the Guards well well trained and worked well together the second encounter with the gangs however did not go so well. The Guard's Second Battalion had several members of its unit from the area being fought over by the gangs and although none had ever been in the gangs involved they felt a strong sense of loyalty to family members who were. As the Guards moved in the Second Battalion turned on the Third causing massive damage and completely distracting the unit as the First Battalion turned to assist the Third the gangs turned on the Guards cutting down several members of the First Battalion without the troopers firing a shot in their own defence.
With no other option the Eridani Light Horse Regiments stepped into the battle engaging the renegade Guardsmen of the Second Battalion and the gang forces. Although the veteran Eridani troops prevailed in combat the Devil's Rock Guard Regiment was virtually destroyed with barely a Battalion of combat capable troops remaining. The gang forces boosted by the destruction of the Guards continued to fight against the Eridani troops which were now fully committed to battle on the planet.
Naval Bombardment
Gibson, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
29th July 3091
Within the heart of the former-Free Worlds League the little paid attention to world of Gibson becomes the site of a massive naval bombardment as more than a dozen WarShips appear in orbit. As nearly a dozen DropShips evacuate the world joining the WarShips the vessels begin a massive naval bombardment that burns Gibson completely wiping all life from the world. The WarShips leave the system as quickly as they arrive abandoning the system before anyone can arrive.
Across the former-Free Worlds League there is a wave of defections from the fractured Successor State's nations as the MSC Warden, a newly completed Thera-class Carrier, and the MCS Venturer, the lead ship of the class of the same name, both go AWOL from the Loyalty system. The MCS Venturer blasting to pieces its sister ship the MCS Exemplar to clear the way for the Warden's escape. In the Principality of Regulus another recently finished ship the PRS Cameron opens fire on the Regulus shipyard facility damaging another under-construction vessel and causing damage to the facilities before jumping clear while from the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby the Unity-class Frigate Promised Land abandons its post without communication through Tamarind's command structure.
Sea Fox Trade Colony
Kyeinnisan
Former-Free Worlds League
30th July 3091
A nuclear explosion rips through the Sea Fox colony on Kyeinnisan killing fourteen thousand Sea Fox traders and lower-castemen and destroying the planetary HPG. Within hours the Sea Fox garrison unit on the planet come under direct assault from a unit calling itself the Forty-ninth Division which causes heavy casualties in the hours after the attack to both the Sea Fox survivors and the local population.
The planet's defenders made up of Clan Sea Fox's Elite Fifty-first Strike Cluster, and members of the local population, driven mad by the nuclear attack forget strategy or their own safety and fully engage the attackers, probably causing as much damage and destruction to the planet as the attackers, they completely destroy the Forty-ninth Division taking no prisoners and making sure than none of their equipment is salvageable, including the Division's three DropShips. Without transport or the ability to call in further support the people of Kyeinnisan and the Sea Foxes begin the task of rescuing survivors and recovering bodies from the destroyed trade colony.
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M5 Casper Drone
Nadir Point, Outreach
Star League Protectorate
1st August 3091
An unidentified WarShip and a small JumpShip jumped into the Outreach system refusing all contact with the Dragoons or the other JumpShips in the area. The Wolf's Dragoons WarShip Widow's Lair, a Fredasa-class Corvette, turned to engage the vessel detecting a small shuttle craft moving away from the vessel. It too the Widow's Lair minutes, an insignificant time for a WarShip, to turn from its holding point near the Nadir point towards the jump signature those minutes were long enough for the small craft to dock with the JumpShip and for the craft to jump clear of the system leaving the unidentified WarShip.
As the Widow's Lair moved closer the corvette was slammed by several naval particle cannons followed by Naval lasers, missiles and autocannon. The assault tore the small WarShip to pieces scattering the craft in all directions. Without stopping the vessel engaged several Dragoon JumpShips with broadside mounted capital missiles before heading in system leaving the damaged and destroyed vessels to fall into Outreach's sun as it moved in system.
Several days later the vessel identified by the remaining Dragoon WarShips as an M5 Casper Drone moved in on the Beowulf, the Dragoon's Congress Block II-class Frigate, and the Alexander, the Dragoon flagship an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser. Behind the M5 the Athena, the Dragoon's last WarShip a Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser, had shadowed the M5 staying just out of weapons range. The Dragoons using their Clan records on the original SLDF's combat against the M5 Casper Drones planned to engage the single M5 from multiple directions at once intending on overwhelming the vessel's systems. Luckily such a task was capable as the M5 was a single vessel, if the craft had been part of a 'pack' then their strategy would have been impossible.
As the M5 approached the Beowulf and Alexander the drone opened fire with its combination of naval particle cannons, lasers, missiles and autocannons causing heavy damage to the heavily armoured Frigate as the light armoured Alexander remained in the other vessel's shadow. The Beowulf returned fire with its Kraken missiles and forward autocannons causing damage to the drone as it closed drawing the M5 in, the Casper continued to accelerate as it approached moving neatly into the Dragoon's trap. As the Casper accelerated it passed close to the Beowulf engaging the vessel with its broadside naval autocannons at the same time being hit by the Beowulf's own naval autocannons. Unfortunately for the Casper the Alexander was also now in position targeting the Drone's forward armour with a full naval broadside of Naval Autocannons which shredded the Casper's forward and starboard armour destroying much of the craft's control systems.
Weapon system's along the Casper's hull continued to pound the Beowulf with its control systems damaged beyond repair and unable to re-target the weapons on the Alexander. Before any further serious damage could be inflicted by the M5 Killer Whale Capital and Piranha Sub-Capital missiles slammed into the rear of the six hundred-and-eighty thousand ton vessel as the Athena moved into firing range the combination of damage and the precision targeting of the Dragoon gunners exposed the M5 Design's most critical design flaw, the self-destruct mechanism buried deep in the aft of the vessel. The out of control Drone exploded from within as charges built into the ship's very structure exploded throughout the ship tearing it to pieces. The Dragoons had lost the one WarShip and another, the Beowulf, was crippled but they had successfully defended their world from an external attacker and they had saved Outreach's population from further destruction. Unfortunately for mercenaries everywhere this attack did not cause the Dragoons to consider reopening their Hiring Halls in fact it had the opposite effect causing the Dragoons to tighten their defences and rearmament.
Fyhne Family Estate
Arcturus, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
4th August 3091
The royal family were on Arcturus on holiday Peter Steiner-Davion was enjoying his time away from Tharkad and despite being right on the border of Clan Wolf's border he felt completely safe within the Fyhne Family Estate on the sleepy world of Arcturus. When the Commonwealth had been founded it had been done so under the world of Arcturus but during the rein of the Nine Archons Tharkad had been chosen by Archon Marsden who had proposed the switch due to Tharkad's position deep within the realm away from the Draconis Combine which had threatened the world several times. Peter Steiner-Davion and his wife Isis had always liked the world and its present rulers the Fyhne Family and he never felt more secure with two WarShips in orbit and four Regiments of Lyran warriors on the world. Recently Clan Wolf had been quiet on the worlds they claimed near Arcturus Peter had been tempted to launch an assault to test the Clansmen... but he was on holiday with his wife and business did not matter.
Sitting in the study Peter was lost with his thoughts Isis had gone out with Duchess Heather Fyhne into the capital city of Malcheema. The capital of Arcturus was a shadow of the city it had been when Arcturus was capitol world of the Lyran realm but it was still a busy place and Peter knew that Isis would be the toast of the town. Giving him plenty time to think and enjoy the peace and quiet something he rarely got on Tharkad.
This peace was shattered as the doors were thrust open and in charged General of Armies Keane Sortek “What is the meaning of this General? I'm on holiday, I've tolerated your insistence on being here but there is...†he began sitting up looking angrily at the younger man.
“Sire, I apologies†he said rushing over to the Archon's side “Sire, there has been a Nuclear explosion on Tharkad in Tharkad City.â€
“An attack?†Peter almost shouted raising to his feet quickly. The Archon's Pride and Mount Wotan were both with him here at Arcturus, had he reduced the defences around his capital too much by having a holiday on this far from home.
“We don't know, the primary HPG has been completely destroyed, we have the barest of information from a JumpShip that jumped clear of the system to relay the message. The Commonwealth and Victor are both still in orbit over Tharkad, neither have reported an attack.â€
“The secondary HPG should be operation!†Peter snapped angrily for both vessels to have reported no external attack did not mean much recent sneak attacks on several worlds had shown that no-one was invulnerable.
“So far it has not connected to the next. Sire, even when it does we will not have full communications the secondary net is far slower than the primary station.†Keane reminded him.
“General!†Peter snapped “forget the HPG it is gone and so is likely our capital! Send the JumpShips back to Tharkad, get me answers. For now switch all communications here.â€
“Here sire? This world is exposed†Keane cautioned the Archon. Peter glanced around the Fyhne family's study as if seeing something.
“This world is a sleeping giant General†he said looking back at Keane Sortek “who said it cannot be again.†He said before Keane could reply Peter continued “our capital city could be occupied or destroyed, my home, the Royal Guard could all be gone. Do we need that hanging over our people? I think not.†He said quieter “we need stability, Arcturus can be just that.†He said determined Keane knew the look in Peter's eyes and chose not to interrupt “get the word out that I want answers from Tharkad and make sure my wife is fine.†The Archon ordered turning away from Keane looking out the windows the General of Armies nodded and quickly left Peter to his thoughts.
It took several days for JumpShips to reach Tharkad and for others to relay messages back to Arcturus however the situation appeared bleak. The primary power reactor for Tharkad, which was actually a series of fusion reactors, had exploded with the force of a dozen nuclear weapons showering massive areas of Tharkad with radioactive materials causing thousands of immediate casualties and hundreds more were to follow. The First Royal Guard RCT had been vaporized along with their base as had the Royal Court and much of the city itself, the death toll was guaranteed to raise but what the people needed right now was support. Archon Peter Steiner-Davion directed multiple aid ships to Tharkad from Donegal, Alarion and Skye while at the same time calling on Clan Wolf (in-Exile), the Inner Sphere's Red Cross and the SLDF to assist with rescue and clean-up operations blame could be assigned later for now the people needed help.
Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Council
Wolf City, Arc Royal
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
5th August 3091
Despite the news from Tharkad and the Clan's preparations to assist they had more pressing concerns of their own to contend with. Despite several attempts to dissuade him Evan Wolf had fought and won three separate Circles of Equals against Bloodnamed Wolf (in-Exile) warriors allowing him to stand in front of the council and plead his case. Standing in a circular room Star Colonel Evan stood looking at the arrayed Wolves and at the Khan and saKhan sitting ahead of him. He stood almost six foot tall and even through his formal Wolf uniform everyone could see his muscular body recently turned twenty-one years old he was all a Clan warrior could want to be, even if he was a freeborn.
“Star Colonel Evan Wolf, you have demanded this council and fought for the right. You stand in front of the Bloodnamed of Clan Wolf. Say your words and we will listen†Loremaster John Shaw the massive Elemental said once the crowded Wolf warriors had settled into their positions around the hall.
“Clansmen, it is every warrior's wish to win a Bloodname to join the ranks of our most revered warriors to add their genes to those that will make up future generations of our Clan's warriors.†He began Shaw immediately broke in.
“Trueborns win Bloodnames Evan Wolf, you are a very capable warrior and have proven to be a worthy addition to our Touman but you are Freeborn not a Trueborn and are so ineligible for a Bloodname.â€
“I am the son of two Bloodnamed warriors†Evan snapped back looking at the Loremaster around the room there was a stunned silence children born to Bloodnamed warriors was uncommon at best to be born to two Bloodnamed warriors was unheard of in Clan Wolf's history most Trueborns saw thought the idea of natural reproduction as an alien concept to even think of taking a child to term.
“Evan Wolf, how do you know of this?†saKhan Ranna Kerensky asked leaning forward in her chair. She was his immediate superior officer in Beta Galaxy and had been aware of his inquires but she was also his mother, a fact that very few within the Wolf Clan knew, she had not informed her Khan of Evan's inquires nor had she stepped in his way.
“I inquired at the Freeborn creche I was brought up in. I was informed that I had been abandoned as a child but I checked the medical records for that day. All the children born in Wolf City like all of our children was assigned a unique identifying number. My number was linked to a warrior of Kerensky Blood and one of distant relation to the Ward Bloodname, either a failed trueborn warrior or someone who was descended from that line.â€
“Interesting work for a warrior Evan Wolf, perhaps you would have a good career with the Watch Quiaff?†John Shaw challenged
“Neg, and I would contest any plan for reassignment against ANYONE.†Evan snapped back at the Loremaster making it clear that despite his size the large Elemental did not scare him.
“I would congratulate you Evan Wolf on your findings. We Wolves know our history well.†Khan Pelan Kell said raising from his chair “The Founder formed our Clans and our society to ensure that those of pure breeding would lead our Clans along the path he had commanded.†He said glancing at Ranna Kerensky before back at Evan Wolf “however things have changed as our Clans have moved on. A handful of the twenty formed Clans remain, those that do have survived because they have been willing to adapt, we must continue to adapt to survive. What the Loremaster said is true Trueborns lead our society however there are exceptions, I am one of them†Phelan said quietly looking around the room “I was born a Freeborn yet I am a Bloodnamed warrior and I am Khan. Diana Pryde of the Jade Falcons is a Freeborn born to a Bloodnamed Warrior and she is Khan of the Jade Falcons. Ragnar Magnesson serves as saKhan to the Bears and despite their efforts we know of at least two Nova Cat warriors who have attained a Bloodname.â€
“So the exceptions are now a ruling?†One warrior shouted out “all Freeborns with a little skill and drive to discover their origins can win a Bloodname? This makes a mockery of what the Founder laid out.â€
“Neg, there must be control measures in place before any freeborn is allowed to become a Bloodnamed warrior.†Kell responded “this Council must be one of those measures, we are the leaders of this Clan. We are the warriors who can judge best if a warrior deserves to have their genes used in our breeding programs. All of you must admit that Evan Wolf has proven himself to be such a warrior worthy of this Council's judgment?†He asked out aloud
“Does the Khan call for a ruling?†John Shaw asked from the look on his face Phelan could tell the man was not happy.
“Aff, I doâ€
“The Loremaster opposes you on this Khan Kell†John Shaw said looking from Phelan to Evan Wolf “but it is not my decision to make. Wolves judge Evan Wolf as you see fit and make your choice.†The Loremaster called out at ever seat there was a small voting pad each Bloodnamed Wolf warrior would be allowed a simple “yes†or “no†all had to vote and a majority result would bring a ruling.
Several minutes passed as the Wolves voted Evan Wolf stood at a parade's stance as they did under the watchful gaze of Phelan Kell and Ranna Kerensky. Evan could not tell what the Khan's reaction was his face a mask on his emotions however Ranna Kerensky was a different matter her face beamed with pride at his accomplishments. The minutes passed and John Shaw raised from his chair again from his face Evan could tell the result and could see the Loremaster's reaction. “You have the right Evan Wolf to see the details of your birth parents and to compete in a Grand Melee. Should you be successful Evan Wolf you will join the Bloodnamed, should you fail you will likely be dead.â€
“I will not fail†Evan said confidently
“This council is at an end, Seyla†the Loremaster called out
“Seyla†all the gathered Wolves thundered in return. In the coming days Evan Wolf discovered his true parentage, the son of Phelan Kell and Ranna Kerensky. Shocked by the truth Evan avoided both until his Grand Melee fighting against twenty-four Trueborn warriors all desperate for a Bloodname but all equally desperate to stop him. Evan fought as if he were possessed not caring if he maimed or killed fellow competitors as he went.
After eight grueling days of combat Evan Wolf emerged as victorious from the Grand Melee much to the anger of many Trueborn warriors within Clan Wolf (in-Exile). As a warrior of two Bloodnamed warriors and a freeborn he was given choice of the Bloodname, instead of taking a place within the Kerensky Bloodhouse and further angering the Trueborns more, Evan chose to join the Kell Bloodhouse as only its second member after his father. With his Bloodname won Star Colonel Evan Kell was given command of the recently formed Sixth Mountain Wolf Guard Cluster of Zeta Galaxy based on A Place. Khan Kell hoped that this assignment would allow Evan to get used to his new status as a Bloodnamed warrior and perhaps the space needed to allow him to forgive his parents for sending him away.
Assassination
Imperial Palace, Yamashiro
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
9th August 3091
In the dead of night the Coordinator of the Draconis Combine Vincent Kurita and his wife Tami Moto are assassinated in their sleep by an unidentified assailant wielding a samurai blade, during their escape five of the Coordinator's guards are killed. With no sign of the assassin and with the Coordinator dead Warlord Minoru Kurita once again steps into the position to stabilize the realm informing the people that a full search of the Draconis Combine will be made and that the Coordinator's murderer will be brought to justice. He announces that he will protect Vincent's two children as he would his own revealing for the first time his two children to the Draconis Combine public.
Minoru's children are revealed to be twenty-one year old Battalion commander Hirohito Kurita, of the Third Genyosha Regiment, and seventeen year old Michiko Kurita, a naval trainee Officer, based on Midway both children had been serving the Combine under assumed names to protect them and their father.
Death of a Nation
Rousset-Marik Alliance
Former-Free Worlds League
11th August 3091
With no direction from Augustine and no wages coming from the Rousset-Marik accounts to pay their troops the worlds of the Rousset-Marik Alliance had begun to fend for themselves hiring small mercenary units to supplement their “House†troops. Unfortunately they could all see the writing on the wall when the Capellan Confederation invaded Bernardo and Ibstock on the 11th August 3091 with each world fending for themselves no other world was willing to help either leaving the Ninth Rousset-Marik Militia to hold the line themselves. With Warrior House Doru supported by the First and Second Capellan Defence Force Regiments the Ninth Rousset-Mairk Militia stood no chance and quickly surrendered rather than be destroyed. The Capellan Confederation would use the salvage taken from these worlds to form the Fourth Capellan Defence Force in 3092.
With word of Ibstock and Bernardo's fall to the Capellan Confederation nearby Berenson requested and was given Star League Protectorate status with troops immediately deployed from the Battle Armour Training Corps bases on New Canton. This was quickly followed by Talitha, Van Dieman IV and Wasat as each world requested protection following approaches by the Federated Suns, Capellan Confederation and Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. To show the SLDF meant business the Wolf's Dragoons Alpha Regiment was deployed from Outreach to assist the Star League Forces the Mercenaries, despite problems within the Outreach system showing that they were willing to assist in the defence and expansion of the Star League Protectorate. On the worlds of Van Dieman IV and Wasat elements of the Seventh Free Worlds Legionaries and the Eighteenth Rousset-Marik Militia were given two options by the SLDF forces defect to the SLDF and be welcomed, after vetting, as Star League units or leave. In both cases the units choose to join the SLDF and with the arrival of the First and Second Royal Striker Regiments in later 3091 they are added as auxiliary units to those regiment's brigades. The addition of these units vastly increases the size of the two Striker Regiments which both had been undermanned since their formation due to SLDF funding cuts. On the 29th August 3091 the shattered world of Augustine and its garrison, the rest of the Seventh Free Worlds Legionaries, also choose to accept membership in the Star League Protectorate.
On the 15th August 3091 the Oriente Protectorate announces that the worlds of Holt, Avellaneda, Abadan and Hamilton along with their defenders the Second Rousset-Marik Militia have chosen to join the Oriente Protectorate and that the Second Rousset-Marik Militia will now be known as the Fifth Halas Militia and that all citizens of these worlds are welcome to join the Oriente Protectorate's armed forces.
As the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth moves in to take the rest of the worlds held by the Rousset-Marik Alliance, including the manufacturing world of Irian, the Isle of Skye dispatches the newly hired Van Halen's Heavy Cavalry Mercenary unit eager to prove themselves after the chaos on Galatea the unit successfully takes and holds the world of Brodon fighting off elements of the Fifth Rousset-Marik Militia and an unidentified force. Elsewhere within the former-Rousset Marik worlds the remains of the Fifth Rousset-Marik militia are destroyed by the Marik-Stewart forces. On Augustine Duchess Alys Rousset-Marik is confirmed dead while her daughter Quinn Ann Rousset is missing/presumed dead.
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Announcement of Liberation
New Olympica
Star League Protectorate
14th August 3091
Following months of heavy fighting in the New Olympica system the SLDF garrison declare victory against the Manei Domini forces identifying the defeated unit as the Forty-sixth Shadow Division. Each of the units on New Olympica are heavily damaged following the conflict however they immediately show their dedication to the people of the planet helping with the rebuilding and repairing of the damage caused to the world. The First New Olympica Guard Regiment is officially added to the Fourth Royal BattleMech Regimental Brigade during heavy fighting for the world the Guard had virtually already become part of the unit.
Interstellar Expeditions “Achilles†Team
Achilles, Liao Commonality
Capellan Confederation
25th August 3091
The Interstellar Expeditions were a group of investigators, explorers and mercenaries that were often hired out to Succession States, Companies and people. A team had been hired by the Capellan Confederation to search the uninhabited systems of the Confederation starting with the previously inhabited ones. One of these worlds was a system known as Achilles abandoned during the second Succession War following an attack by House Davion. Although heavily armed the “Achilles†Team were quickly overwhelmed by a Word of Blake team who were retrieving supplies from a supply station. Although the Capellan Confederation was aware of the path taken by the Interstellar Expeditions party by the time they realized they were missing the Word of Blake had abandoned Achilles and destroyed their system.
Planetary Unrest
Galatea, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
29th August 3091
Finishing a job begun by the Shadow Divisions a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser enters orbit over Galatea and begins an indiscriminate bombardment using naval and nuclear weapons. Due to the previous riots and fighting several units had abandoned the planet already however there were still nearly a dozen mercenary units on the planet including elements of the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry. During the eight hour bombardment the Black Lion's guns also destroy all the remaining military units including the remains of the Manei Domini on planet before abandoning the devastated world. Soon after another mercenary command passes through the system looking for work finding Galatea in ruins the unit jumps out of the system as quickly as possible passing word to Skye of the troubles on the planet.
Clan Council
Nova Cat Hall, Phillip Drummond City
Nova Cat's Den, Periphery
31st August 3091
Clan Councils were not always the most comfortable things for a Khan, this one particularly so as it placed the Khan against his saKhan. Standing on the floor in front of the Council saKhan Michael Drummond began to speak “my fellow Nova Cats we are staring at a grave occurrence, one we have never encountered before in our Clan. The WarShip Lucian Rosse and its accompanied ground force disregarded orders and attacked the Capellan Confederation world of Denbar. The Lucian Rosse's commander Grayson Rosse has effectively declared war on not only the Capellan Confederation but also the Federated Suns by traveling through their space without authorization. We are lucky in that neither Succession State seems to know what to do and they are threatened by external threats.†Drummond said walking slowing in a circle looking at all the Clansmen “Grayson Rosse died in his bid to begin a war, his surviving officers will face judgment by our laws†he said looking at Khan Canin Rosse “but there is a more pressing concern “Khan Canin Rosse, Grayson Rosse was your freeborn son correct?†He demanded looking at his Khan the fact that Grayson was his son was no great secret but nor was it openly spoken about by the trueborns of the Nova Cats.
“Aff, he was†Canin responded angrily he was barely coming to terms with the loss of his son it was a strange feeling something he had not felt before.
“And you did not authorize his actions on Denbar?â€
“Neg, I did not, Grayson felt a debt of gratitude to Melissa Allard-Liao for her actions in removing the Star League Defence Force from our territory.â€
“Something we could have done ourselves if you had authorized it.†Someone grumbled showing the anger towards the Khan's refusal to fully engage the SLDF.
“To have done so would have brought the entire Inner Sphere down on us†another said
“Let them comeâ€
“You see what is happening to us? We are becoming divided because of our Khan, he must be removed.†Michael Drummond called out looking directly at Canin Rosse.
“Are you really a Mongoose or a Raven in disguise Drummond†Rosse snarled raising from his chair “what you say is true Grayson Rosse dishonoured himself and all the warriors he took with him. And we could have removed the SLDF ourselves possibly bringing the wrath of the Inner Sphere down on us.†He said stepping closer to Drummond “with this information you could have come and challenged me like a true warrior. And that I could have accepted†he said turning looking at the other Clansmen “we are Nova Cats we believe in being superior warriors and in visions I see neither of those motivations here.†Canin said angrily “instead you approach this like a politician! I expected better of Grayson Rosse but I also expected better of you Michael Drummond.â€
“And we expected better of you†Drummond said quietly so only Canin could here “you should have controlled him more instead of thinking of your legacy.â€
“My legacy? My actions will speak louder than words Michael†Canin replied in an equally low voice “Michael Drummond we will finish this like warriors†he said raising his voice “I challenge you to a Trial of Grievance you have sullied my name and our Clan with your politics.â€
“We will fight as warriors then, with our hands and our feet.â€
“As you wish†Canin said looking around the room at his fellow Nova Cats “we will fight tomorrow in the exercise area.â€
“Neg, we end this today†Michael Drummond replied angrily.
“Fine, but not here†Canin said looking around the chamber “we have come too far for us to dishonour this room.†He said looking back at Michael Drummond “follow me.†He said marching from the room despite his fifty-three years Canin Rosse was still a fit man marching from the room into the courtyard outside. Following him closely was Michael Drummond and about forty other warriors who slowly formed a circle filling out the courtyard.
From one of the administration buildings overlooking the courtyard near the Clan Hall Yvonne Nova Cat looked out of her small office's window she knew Canin would be inside in session with the others of the warrior caste. Glancing down she saw a pair of warriors squaring off against each other, another Clan dispute gone wrong she thought, looking more closely she recognized the man facing towards her building saKhan Michael Drummond. Immediately she knew it was something major going on looking down she watched as the saKhan lay blow after blow into his opponent flicking him over his shoulder. As the other man raised back to his feet shaking off the blows Yvonne realized the man was her husband the Khan of Clan Nova Cat, Canin Rosse. A fell of dread filled her for a moment as she watched him take a further series of blows defending each time.
Michael Drummond was younger and faster than Canin but the Khan appeared to be taking the blows well Yvonne stopped herself wondering when she thought of Canin Rosse as her Khan and not just the man she loved. As she thought Canin reacted slamming blow after blow into Michael Drummond knocking him back several steps the Khan followed up with a kick to Drummond's groin Canin continued to levy blow after blow into the younger man while Drummond tried to defend. From her vantage point Yvonne could see Drummond's counter attack stagger the Khan but she could also see Canin's counter-attack a move she'd seen him use many times in spars with their son Grayson Rosse when he was younger. A round-house punch from the left and then from the right knocked Drummond back followed by a kick that staggered the saKhan back over-balanced Michael Drummond tripped over his own foot throwing the saKhan over head over heals through the air. Michael Drummond slammed through several warriors crashing into a plant pot head first snapping his neck.
From her vantage point Yvonne saw Canin raising his arms looking around the other Clan warriors not in celebration but in challenge. She'd seen him do this before and each time he had been victorious or forced his opponent to step down. Slowly the other warriors began to break up into smaller groups leaving Canin and a few others standing, several lower-castemen moved in and began to remove the body of the fallen saKhan. Yvonne turned away from the window to see several other workers looking at her “Let us get back to work, Quiaff?â€
“Yes, ovKhan†one said respectfully today's excitement was over she would likely hear the story of what had happened soon enough. Her relationship with the Khan was a strange one, and one she enjoyed in many ways, it was accepted by the Nova Cats around her but almost never mentioned even in the passing. It was as if to the Nova Cats she didn't exists outside of her work to Yvonne, formerly of the Steiner-Davion family, she did not know if her present life was all she had hoped for but she did know that it was better a life than she could have had as a second to Victor and Peter always referred to as the person who could have been instead of the person she was.
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The Clan Hell's Horses Yard/Construction Ship
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/forge-hh-1-yardship/msg35415/#msg35415 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/forge-hh-1-yardship/msg35415/#msg35415)
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Into September
Jade Falcon Offensive
Arc-Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd September 3091
Following an extended period of quiet Clan Jade Falcon makes its move against the Lyran Commonwealth in spectacular style launching assaults against the worlds of Mkuranga, Babaeski, Antares, Blair Atoll and Morges. On each of the worlds the Jade Falcons find a concentrated defence however on both Blair Atoll, Mkuranga and Babaeski they smash through the Arcturan Guard and mercenary defences taking each world rapidly. From both worlds elements of the Eleventh and Seventeenth retreat from the world.
On Antares and Morges the Jade Falcons find far more trouble finding Antares in the middle of its winter season the clansmen find a concentrated defence from a company of militia Swallow WiGEs supporting The Charlestown Chiefs Mercenary Company the militia Swallows continually use Antares rivers and lakes to keep ahead of the Jade Falcons while the Charlestown Chiefs use their intimate knowledge of fighting in winter conditions to keep the Clansmen at bay. As the fighting continued the Jade Falcons debuted their newest and most secret BattleMech the Eyrie developed to take advantage of what was known of the Jade Falcons the Eyrie was designed to close and engage in physical and point blank combat. The Eyrie initially caused mass casualties to the militia's forces including the Swallow force. Unfortunately for the Jade Falcons they then came across the Charlestown Chiefs which specialized in physical combat and the use of melee weapons this and the mercenaries experience in winter conditions allowed the mercenaries and what remained of the militia too escape to the mercenary DropShip and evacuate the planet after quickly recovering one of the Eyries. Away from the Falcons on Arc Royal the Swallow pilots chose to join the Charlestown Chiefs with the fighting against the Falcons continuing the Lyran Commonwealth's Quartermasters carefully forgetting about the Swallows, and their pilots, in exchange for the remains of the Eyrie BattleMech.
On Morges there is the Jade Falcons only complete defeat in the conflict as the Sixth Mountain Guards Cluster of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) face off against the invaders. Led by recently bloodnamed Evan Kell the Wolves assault the Jade Falcons from the moment they land on the planet capturing all three of the Jade Falcons DropShips intact and salvaging two trinaries of equipment.
Fire Bomb Attack
Cleveland, Atreus
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
5th September 3091
The small town of Cleveland, on Atreus, had become the base of operations on Atreus of the Second Royal Black Watch Regimental Brigade during their attempt to assist the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth in bringing order to the world. The town had been picked due to its isolated position in the Black Woods region with open land to land their DropShips and prepare their operations. The presence of the SLDF troops had been a boon to the local Cleveland economy bringing wealth as well as security. Unfortunately this was shattered in early September following a series of fuel-air explosions that detonated in and around the Brigade's base camp killing nearly two thirds of the command including their commander Lt. General John-Paul Jones. This attack effectively turned the unit from a very combat capable command into one that was barely able to look after their own wounded and repair their equipment.
Expansion
Rim Association
Former-Free Worlds League
9th September 3091
Following their successful operations against the Magistracy of Canopus the Rim Association turns their attention towards the independent worlds of the former-Free Worlds League between it and the Principality of Regulus. Using home built units and a select amount of small mercenary units the Rim Association rapidly secures eight worlds. On the planet of Westover they find the strongest resistance deploying a small armour and infantry unit supported by a lance of ultra-light Mechs purchased from the Twin Sons system. Unfortunately for the Rim Association forces a pirate company had made the world is base and they proved too strong for the Rim Association force. Only the arrival of The Alpha Team Mercenary Lance saved the Rim Association unit from complete capitulation in the face of the pirate force.
Fighting pro-bon-o the Alpha Team quickly turned the tables on the pirate force using their advanced customized BattleMech designs helping the Rim Association secure the planet. As a further show of their good intentions The Alpha Team turn all salvage over to the Rim Association offering themselves up for a security contract. During the unit's negotiations with the Rim Association Colonel John “Hannibal†Smith admits his MechWarriors are former SLDF MechWarriors who fought on Devil's Rock before being implicated in a massacre of gang members and civilians. Smith claims that his lance did not commit the massacre and that they have been set up. The Rim Association agrees to forget the unit's history and accept them into a six-month probationary contract.
Border Conflict
Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
10th September 3091
Forces belonging to or under the hire of the Capellan Confederation and Oriente Protectorate come into conflict on the former Rousset-Marik Alliance worlds of Hamilton, Ibstock and Bernardo. Although none of the three planets change hands the tensions between the two states travel down the length of the two states onto the Oriente worlds of Xantha III and Ryerson. As the Capellans appear to be gaining an upper hand over the Orientes on Xantha III the First St Jamis-Liao Army belonging to the Kingdom of St Jamis-Liao land on the planet turning the tide against the Capellans but also finishing off the Oriente Protectorate Militia forces effectively putting Xantha III under St Jamis-Liao control.
Downtown Sudetan City
Sudetan, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
13rd September 3091
No-one would randomly attack the Khan of Clan Jade Falcon, at least that was the theory, and that is what Diana Pryde believed. She knew that the people of Sudetan had prospered under her Clan and that they had finally begun to accept being Clansmen, although she kept from thinking they were proud of the fact, she'd often taken to walks around Sudeten City when things were not busy an accomplished warrior she had no need for an escort or protection.
Walking through the market proudly she saw the freeborns at the merchants stalls she rarely purchased goods from these places the taste of the food and the feel of the clothing always felt off to her. Instead she walked among the people occasionally talking with some of them at other times just listening, if Horse was still alive he would have said she was becoming sensitive in her old age mostly likely just to see if he could get away with it while Joanna would likely have just said she'd become soft since taking the reins. As she quietly mused about her fallen comrades she didn't notice the hooded figure move behind her nor did she see another man arguing with one of the area guards causing as large a disturbance as he could without causing the Jade Falcon infantry man to act. She moved slowly making sure that everyone saw who she was every step and action deliberate but what she didn't know was she'd already made her first mistake before Diana Pryde could react the hooded man charged her from behind his first blow with a small blade it quickly punctured the cloth of her jacket and her uniform cutting into her back severing her spine. Immediately paralyzed by the blow the second, third and fourth stabs were unnecessary but they ensured that the Khan met a quick death.
Panic gripped the marketplace as Jade Falcon security and Watch personnel moved in, they'd been discretely observing Diana Pryde whether she wanted them to or not. Securing the Khan's body the Jade Falcons went about arresting nearly eighty civilians from the marketplace but none were armed. A similar story was told in interrogation it split into two camps the first didn't see anything the second saw a shadowy cloaked figure approach and attack the Khan before escaping as security forces moved in.
Two days later saKhan Uvin Buhallin was elevated to the position of Khan his first act was to raze the marketplace to the ground and execute every civilian who had been detained by the Jade Falcons. Today was not a good day to be a member of Sudetan's population and a day that they were not happy to be clan citizens Diana's hope that they would one day be proud to be Jade Falcon lower-castes shattered by her very death. In an attempt to secure his position Uvin elevates the little known Star Colonel Niels Icaza of the Second Falcon Velites Cluster from his own Gamma Galaxy to the position of saKhan. He then orders the Jade Falcons four second-line Galaxies (Rho, Xi, Kappa and Sigma) to increase to their full of six clusters as quickly as possible, this is mainly done by a series of Trials in the front-line Galaxies which make room for newer warriors to come from the training sibkos. Once these are upto strength Uvin Buhallin plans to position them to protect the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone from Clan Hell's Horses, Wolf and Coyote which his front-line forces turn on the Lyran Commonwealth and Clan Wolf (in-Exile).
Draconis Combine Offensive
Draconis March, Federated Suns
16th September 3091
Blaming Federated Suns citizens for the death of the Coordinator and his wife Draconis Combine units spearheaded by the Second Genyosha, the Sixth and Eighth Sword of Light Regiments and three WarShips the Draconis Combine flood onto the worlds of Resling's Planet, Galtor III, Marduk, Tripoli and Proserpina with additional raids being launched on Fellanin II, Al'Nir, Quentin and New Ivaarsen.
In the Quentin system the DCS Lyon's Thumb escorting the Second Genyosha engages and destroys the FSS Reynard Davion while supporting operations of the Draconis Combine ground forces. The Quentin ground defences supported by a heavy aerospace contingent keep the invaders fighting until the end of the month when further Federated Suns reinforcements arrive to re-secure Quentin from the invaders the Second Genyosha retreats from the system.
As the fighting continues the DCS Tsukyuyomi, a Tatsumaki II-class Destroyer, supports operations in the Proserpina system. The FSS Melissa Steiner-Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser, engages the Draconis Combine vessel stopping the assault against the world however at a heavy cost. The Tsukyuyomi becomes too focused on the larger cruiser striking the Avalon-class vessel causing both vessels to explode.
By the end of October 3091 the Federated Suns launch counter-attacks based from New Ivaarsen, Addicks and Mallory's World that allow them to re-secure the worlds of Proserpina, Quentin and Tripoli rolling back the Second Genyosha and several smaller units. At the beginning of November 3091 the AFFS launch further strikes against the worlds of Royal, Lima and McComb causing disruption to the Draconis Combine border into 3092 as the two nations fought over each world. With Victor Steiner-Davion still the sitting First Lord neither nation raises a complaint with the Star League Council or call for Star League Defence Force aid, although with the Manei Domini crisis the likelihood of SLDF assistance is unlikely.
Taurian Concordat Assault
Capellan March, Federated Suns
20th September 3091
With the Federated Suns turned towards the Capellan Confederation actions against the St Ives Compact and against the Draconis Combine and following the SLDF/Nova Cat operations occupying the Davetal system and eliminating the rogue Omega Six. The Taurian Concordat saw a way for them to regain some of their lost pride through the Taurian Pride units of Corps III. Nicknamed by their troopers as the Pleiades Rangers, Crusaders and Lancers the Corps III units had been itching to attack the Pleiades Cluster worlds for years and with Protector's blessing the three units jump the border into Pleiades intent on ripping them back from the AFFS for their part the Capellan March militia forces defending the Pleiades were caught completely unaware by the Taurian action as the DMI sources attached to those worlds had caught no indication that the Taurians were ready for such an attack.
As New Syrtis begins to move to counter this attack little is noticed as a merchant JumpShip arrives in the New Syrtis system to report that the Safe Port system's HPG had completely failed due to technical malfunction and would be offline for a matter of weeks. This information was duly noted and filed away at the New Syrtis Department of Communications branch as priority orders were sent to Capellan March based AFFS units, WarShips and attached mercenary commands.
LCS Archon's Pride (Avalon-class Cruiser)
Ryde, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd September 3091
Duchess Jessica Steiner had never been on board a vessel this large for any period of time, before now she had been assigned to DropShips, JumpShips and had only occasional contact with the Lyran Commonwealth's WarShip fleet. Today that changed as she snaked her way through the vessel under zero-g conditions she finally reached the vessel's command hub deep within the craft's hull. Coming to rest near the centre holo-tank she magnetized her boots waiting for her commander Admiral Urs Burgdorf to look up he was not a large man, in his early fifties now his jet black hair was beginning to show signs of gray while his ancient round spectacles stood out making his eyes look far larger as he glanced up she came to full attention saluting “Leutnant-Kommodore Jessica Steiner reporting for duty, Admiral.†She said remaining at a salute as he looked her over briefly Jessica could feel his eyes glance over her medals fixating on her Commonwealth Star and Eagle's Feather Awards both of which she had earned during her service on board the DropShip Hessen.
“At east Kommodore†he said quietly “quite a change moving from the DropShip Squadrons to an Avalon-class Cruiser?†He asked quietly
“Yes, sir, but the only way to progress for an Aerospace pilot is to move to the WarShip fleet.â€
“You could move to the High Command? Naval planning at Alarion can always use experienced officers. You could plan the future of our naval forces?â€
“Negative sir, I'm more of a 'doing' kind of officer. Too much of my uncle's blood in me.†She said referring to her uncle First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion.
“Appropriate that you are assigned to the vessel our nation received to celebrate your very birth than isn't it.†Urs replied with a smile “I've seen your record Jessica†he said more informally “if you are going to be my executive officer I won't have you playing on your title.†He said raising his hand as she began to speak silencing her response “I know that you have not done so within the DropShip squadron nor as your time as a pilot however politics can become a very real problem when dealing with a vessel that costs more than the annual income of a small star system.â€
“Yes, sir, my duty is to serve as your XO not to be my father's daughter, I want to learn how this ship and her crew work and then I want to help make her do a better job.â€
“An excellent goal†he said turning back to the holo-tank which showed a series of jumps “have you heard the latest intelligence reports?â€
“I have†she said having received a briefing just before leaving the Hessen “it would appear that the Manei Domini attacks that have occurred across the Inner Sphere have been distractions, a large naval force is heading for the Star League Protectorate?â€
“Correct, the Archon has directed us and the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) WarShip Werewolf to move into the Protectorate and assist SLDF operations there. I believe that the SLDF have sent out couriers to all member states requesting their aid in the defence of their worlds.â€
“Worlds which used to be part of the Succession States†Jessica commented “if they had not expanded so quickly they wouldn't need our assistance.â€
“Perhaps Kommodore however at present only the Clan fleets or maybe the Federated Suns could match the forces being arrayed by the Manei Domini. The Federated Suns has its own problems so I wouldn't expect their entire fleet just to drop in. So far there has been little from the Clans regarding the Manei Domini.â€
“They have been struck though?†She asked knowing the answer Clan Wolf had been attacked on Tamar, the Jade Falcon Khan had been murdered in the street and the Rasalhague Dominion had lost an entire Galaxy to a chemical attack all three were reportedly massing forces on their borders waiting to pounce on the Inner Sphere. She'd been surprised when she had heard the Archon's Pride was being redirected from Arcturus to the Star League Protectorate given the threat posed by the Clans.
“They have but if anyone understands the Clanners it's Phelan Kell and even he can't say how they will react to the Manei Domini. The Archon mentioned something about the Clans hating the use of nuclear weapons and each one the Manei Domini set off annoys them just a little more. To be honest I don't know if that's a good thing or not.â€
“After what happened on Tharkad none of us can take nuclear attacks or accidents lightly...†she said quietly the explosion that destroyed half of Tharkad City was still being written as an accident but Jessica wasn't so sure, those had been the best maintained reactors in the whole realm until that “accidentâ€. All she did know was she had lost many friends when the reactors exploded.
“What we can't effect doesn't matter.†Urs said “what we can effect is getting this ship ready for its next mission correct?†He asked she nodded her head with a smile “right Kommodore get us underway.†Jessica nodded again
“Navigation, confirm coordinates for jump to Carnwath. Communications clear our departure with Ryde control. Helm, confirm charge on K-F Drive.†Moments later three “All check†responses were heard from around the control centre Jessica looked back at Urs Burgdorf “Admiral, the crew report the ship is ready.â€
“XO, jump the ship†he said his face beaming a smile as he saw her reaction she'd never done this before but had dreamed of it many times.
“Helm, take us out†she ordered proudly glancing at the helm officer moments later the K-F drive fired and the LCS Archon's Pride disappeared from the Ryde system completing its jump.
End of Hostilities
Atreus, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
25th September 3091
Arriving on Atreus Duke Leonard Stewart and his Home Guard regiment immediately go on the attack against the Manei Domini forces still causing heavy casualties on Atreus. Linking up with the survivors of the local defence forces and with the remains of the Second Royal Black Watch Brigade Duke Leonard pushes the Manei Domini at every opportunity not sleeping for days as he relentlessly pursues them until the unit is no-more. On the 3rd November 3091 Duke Leonard Stewart officially declares Atreus free from the Manei Domini and personally thanks the Star League Defense Force and in particular the Second Royal Black Watch for their actions on Atreus vowing to help rebuild the unit in anyway he can. Leonard's dedication and capabilities under fire place him in the lime-light throughout the Former-Free Worlds League showing up the aging Corrine Marik who had remained on Marik throughout the problems.
SLS Surprise (Kigamure-class Pursuit Cruiser)
Mundo Nublar, Periphery
29th September 3091
“Jump signature detected at jump point. Granger is challenging.†Dana Walker said turning to the SLS Surprise's commander Rudolph Croft. Moments later the Kigamure's sensors detected weapons fire being exchanged between the Granger and the three DropShips being deployed by the JumpShip soon after the Granger disappeared from the sensor screen. “Granger has been destroyed, the DropShips are heading in system towards the shipyard.â€
“Have they detected us?†Croft replied not moving the Granger and her crew had been a good ship and crew.
“It does not appear so sir†Walker replied
“Bring the bow up on the jump point prepare Mass Driver shot.â€
“Sir, the Mass Driver is not a good weapon for DropShips especially maneuvering ones†Walker pointed out.
“We're not targeting the DropShips, target the JumpShip.†Croft ordered seeing the shock on his executive officer's face.
“Sir, targeting a JumpShip is not exactly civilized†Walker protested.
“Neither is killing a DropShip full of people or violating a system they are not welcome in. Now target the JumpShip and fire when ready†he said looking at his executive officer “or do I have to make that order myself.â€
“Negative, sir, weps target Mass Driver on JumpShip off Nadir Point. Correct for gravitational pull of star and fire when ready.†Walker ordered forgetting her previous opposition to the command.
“Major, ready to fire, firing†the officer replied moments later the lights dimmed and there was a series of sparks from several power boxes throughout the ship. “Secondary power plant taking over from primaries, main power rebuilding we should be back fully operation in ten seconds.â€
“Once we are fully operational bring us about and to full burn towards the shipyard.†Croft ordered Walker nodded not mentioning the mass driver shot hurtling towards the JumpShip. “And there they go seeing our engine flare.†Croft said moments later as the three DropShips began accelerating.
“We have a power flare from the JumpShip†Walker warned Croft nodded knowing it was too late for the JumpShip to escape. Moments later the JumpShip vanished from the screen as the Mass Driver shot slammed into the Invader snapping the JumpShip's back. “Communications warn the shipyard and warn the Rancher to expect incoming.†She said turning to the communications station.
“Have Rancher dock and remove all our personnel from that shipyard, they are to go to ground on Mundo Nublar avoid all contact with the incoming DropShips.â€
“You want them to run?†Walker asked annoyed she knew that the Rancher was no match for the incoming DropShips but she still didn't like it.â€
“They are our job†Croft replied “power down the Mass Driver, release engine safeties and catch us up with those DropShips†the ship's commander ordered. As part of the new Star League's modifications had been made to the Kigamure's engines so the vessel could not exceed 1.5G acceleration while the Mass Driver was operational. When the weapon was powered down the ship's engines were no longer restricted allowing the Surprise to close on its opponents.
Less than five minutes later the three hostile DropShips were assaulting the shipyard within the system and the two non-operational Kigamures, Surprise's sister ships, the SLS Surprise was still far out of range to stop the DropShips but with their JumpShip gone Croft knew that the DropShips were never escaping. On the Surprise's sensors the DropShip Rancher was moving away from the facility as quickly as possible.
“We're coming into weapons range†Walker called out as the shipyard imploded under enemy fire.
“Bring our Broadside into our engagement arc†Croft said “fire at will. Take our time we have a range advantage over them.†He ordered his crew were not the most experienced but they were good shots with all the Surprise's weapons.
“We don't have any aerospace fighters, we could become vulnerable if they close on us.â€
“We don't let them close, Major†Croft said moments later the Surprise's first salvo of Naval Particle cannons engaged the first DropShip four Heavy Naval Paricle Cannons and four smaller but dangerous Medium Naval Particle Cannons. All eight weapons slammed into the enemy DropShip shattering the vessel into a million tiny pieces. “Re-position and continue assault†Croft ordered the helm officer and gunners nodded even as the Kigamure changed its position slightly the two remaining DropShips attempted to close but the Surprise was ready for them even as they closed a second and third salvo was fired by the WarShip's gunners shattering the remaining two targets. “Pass my congratulations to the crew, and word to the Rancher to return to us.â€
“Two of the Particle cannons failed on that third salvo†Walker pointed out Croft glanced down at the vessel's status and nodded “what is our course sir?â€
“Once Rancher is back with us I want to make a slow pass over the remains of the DropShips and of our facilities. If there is anything worth recovering Rancher should have enough resources to help us retrieve them then we're heading for Terra, we're done with this system.†He said glancing around the Surprise, for a first engagement since the ship's initial modifications she hadn't done too badly. “A few more small changes and I think this ship will make a worthy addition to the fleet.â€
“I agree Captain, it's a shame about her sisters†she said mentioning the two smashed Kigamure hulks held within the remains of the shipyard.
“New ships can always be built Major, we just need to show what the Surprise is capable of, first we head home.†Croft said slowly making his way off the bridge leaving the crew to continue mop-up operations. Whoever had attack Mundo Nublar had paid the ultimate price with everyone of the enemy vessels destroyed.
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Attacks everywhere to bring everything on the cusp of Chaos! I would have to do a Thread board to keep track of all the activity! Nice update, especially the new SLS Surprise! Keep it up!
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Go Chiefs! ;D
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Finally time for more of the timeline - another big one which is one of the reasons it took a while I also couldn't get it to flow right and ended up removing an entire section because it caused too much problems going ahead despite how much I liked it. #P I'd like to thank Terrance for their suggestion of the Junkyard Dogs mercenary company on the Merc Unit Challenge thread
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php/topic,39137.0.html (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php/topic,39137.0.html)
This little unit has spawned another spin-off story which we'll see more of going ahead. If anyone fancy's submitting more mercs or units feel free to on that thread and I'll see if I can fit them in (most likely can).
There's another thread here:
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/general-discussion/merc-unit-challenge-(au-timeline)/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/general-discussion/merc-unit-challenge-(au-timeline)/)
So feel free
Anyway enough speel more story!!
FSS Destiny (First Prince Block II-class Battleship)
Nadir Point, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
1st October 3091
The Federated Suns High Command sat around a long table onboard the WarShip FSS Destiny, one of the Federated Suns three First Prince-class Battleships, the discussion had varied from the recent Capellan Confederation attack which had resulted in two destroyed Avalon-class Cruisers to the Draconis Combine attacks and the Taurian Concordat assaults against Pleiades. However the biggest speaking point was the Manei Domini's threat which included the appearance of the ancient FSS Rycon. “The Rycon is more mobile than any WarShip we currently have available.†The intelligence officer Leftenant Cathleen Crew replied “currently the vessel is at large within the Federated Suns, its base of operations is also currently unknown.â€
“The Pegasus could match her but she's going to be in refit for the next year-and-a-half, or more, even once the Intrepid docks with her.†Admiral Brody Scott said quietly the Federated Suns Columbia was in pieces after the conflict with the Draconis Combine. The Federated Suns support and repair ship Intrepid was traveling across the realm to assist the WarShip but early prognosis from engineers had the ship being out of service at least 18 months. The Federated Suns still hadn't really paid the Draconis Combine back for the damage done to the ship which wasn't sitting too well with some AFFS hardliners especially those within the Draconis March. Victor had not ordered a counter-attack in force yet mainly due to his holding of the First Lord post but also due to the Manei Domini threat. Hopefully in a month or so her could shed the First Lord position and get back to keeping the Federated Suns ahead of its neighbours.
“We could double up our patrols?â€
“That didn't save the Melissa Davion and William Davion, double WarShip patrols makes our ships more vulnerable to mass attack.†Another argued “and it would also hinder our border defences we would be able to cover a lot less systems.â€
“I agree†Victor Steiner-Davion said speaking for the first time “we cannot have all our WarShips bunched up, we must maintain our defences, I want to increase Pocket WarShip support to our WarShip forces in critical areas move them off the planets and into space. Meanwhile I plan on taking this ship and an escort to the Star League Protectorate.â€
“First Prince Davion, I object in the strongest term!†Reinhart Steiner said, himself speaking for the first time tonight Victor guessed he'd expected this move and the Marshal of Armies wasn't going to let it drop.
“The Manei Domini need to be stopped sooner rather than later. I am the First Prince of the Federated Suns but I am also First Lord of the Star League Defence Force until November. I will not have it said that I turned my back on any people I vowed to serve.†He said clearly so all could hear November was only a month away but a WarShip could travel far in that time. “Duchess Jaylen Davion will serve as my Regent on New Avalon until I return. While Reinhart Steiner will server in support.â€
“Sire, I should be with you†Reinhart Steiner protested.
“No, the Rycon is a clear and present threat to our nation and neither the Combine or Capellans are going away. You will remain and support Jaylen.†He said he'd have preferred to give Burton or Fredrick his powers during his absence but both were deployed Jaylen served at the Department of Military Justice on New Avalon putting her in the perfect place what she lacked in combat experience Danai and Reinhart could support her with while her education and experience with the AFFS Justice system should keep her ahead with the Davion Royal Court.
FSS Bravery (First Prince Block II-class Battleship)
Zenith Point, New Syrtis
Capellan March, Federated Suns
7th October 3091
As fighting continued in the Pleiades Cluster and in the St Ives Compact the Capellan March was on high alert. While the FSS Bravery hung above the New Syrtis star the FSS Damien Hasek, a Congress Block II-class Frigate, patrolled the system searching for any threats. The sensor operator Cheryl Flint turned to her commander the ship's XO John Quinn “sir, two jump signatures reported at the Nadir Point, two JumpShips a Monolith and what appears to be a Merchant. Sensor scans indicate both ships are heavily damage.â€
“Communications?†He asked turning to another officer
“Sir, a general distress call, along with some additional material, they report they've made a double jump from the Safe Port system.†He said looking at the XO “sir, they report the Safe Port HPG is not down for maintenance as reported, they report the world faces invasion from the Capellan Confederation.â€
“What of that WarShip run by Foundation Industries? The Vidarâ€
“Sir, they report the vessel destroyed.†The communications officer said
“Order the Nadir Point recharge station to dispatch rescue tugs. Send word to New Syrtis of the JumpShip arrival and Safe Port's reported condition. Captain to the Bridge.†John Quinn said rapidly “engineering reel in the jump sail, begin energy transfer from the batteries to KF Drive, all hands prepare for immediate jump.â€
Soon after the Captain arrived at the bridge of the Destiny at the same time the ship received orders to jump to the Safe Port system and access the situation. As the Battleship jumped clear of the system the first DropShips began to launch from the recharge station, the two JumpShips reporting continued decompression and internal damage.
Two days later the DropShips slowly approached the area where the two JumpShips had entered the system DropShips began to abandon the two craft as the Monolith exploded. As they approached the remaining JumpShip further explosions occurred on the Merchant revealing the vessel's weapons two pairs of Naval Autocannon which swiftly destroyed the four rescue DropShips approaching the vessels. Before the DropShips were destroyed the AFFS craft identified the vessel as a modified Tracker-class WarShip, the vessel and all eleven DropShips, begin making the trip from the Jump point towards New Syrtis.
Hiring Halls
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
10th October 3091
For the last two weeks Lieutenant Brian “Terrace†Coulson had successfully talked three other warriors into joining him in forming a new BattleMech lance. Each person he had spoken to had lost their unit or been separated from them during the recent Jade Falcon invasion of the Lyran realm and each of them wanted to get back into the fight like him. And now he was close to signing on the last part of the unit a Leopard-class DropShip, the perfect craft for transporting his lance. “And here is where we have the Mechs. If you were to join use these would be the units you would be carrying†he said to the DropShip Captain Svetlana Gritsenko she was a blonde in her early twenties, very young to be captaining a DropShip, however her circumstances were much like the members of their new command her family business had been based on Antares running cargo along the Clan border. Brian knew enough about Antares that the only real thing of value coming off the planet was Clan salvage from various raids so he guessed the family had been one of the salvage crews stationed on the world making the most of their new neighbours, until of course the moment that the Jade Falcons overwhelmed the defenders and conquered the world. He hadn't asked her if much of her family had escaped, some wounds were better left, he didn't know many from his old unit that had escaped the Clan advance.
“They don't look like much†she said quietly looking at the four BattleMechs each was painted in a gunmetal gray but all looked like they suffered from poor maintenance with several patches of rust forming on all the Mechs. “So what do you call yourselves?â€
“They will surprise you†he said laughing off her comment “their condition is intentional Captain we are the Junkyard Dogs.â€
“The Junkyard Dogs...†She said looking at the four Mechs she knew them all one was a mighty Clan built Timber Wolf, one of the most deadly designs ever built, next to it was a Maelstorm, a solid if uninspired heavy Mech it looked similar to the Timber Wolf hunched over with low weapon arms. Beside the Maelstorm was an even smaller Mech but no less advanced Black Hawk KU OmniMech, one of the original Inner Sphere OmniMechs created by the Draconis Combine the Mech could have been about forty years old and despite its paint scheme looked in good condition, the last Mech was the lightest of all three a fifty-five ton Bushwacker with its low built wide frame. As lances went they were not the heaviest nor best equipped. “You wouldn't stand up to much in a major battle.â€
“We don't plan to, we'll only take raiding missions no last stand defences or major assaults, we'll look at getting in fast causing a bit of havoc then get out. No need to outstay our welcome anywhere in particular.â€
“My DropShip isn't an assault ship, my crew are more used to running cargo, we can get you down but don't expect air support or us to charge down WarShips. If I say we turn back you listen even if it means losing out on your contract.â€
“Your ship comes first, as do the lives of my lancemates†Brian agreed “we'll pick our contracts carefully and only act on good intelligence.â€
“Then the Junkyard Dogs have secured their transport you can move your Mechs aboard whenever you are ready.†She said offering him her hand which he happily shook.
“Beginning of a fantastic partnership†he said.
“We'll see†she said turning back out of the hanger
“Give me a chance Captain, you never know...â€
“Only in your wildest dreams, Mechboy.†She replied taking one last look back at the four Mechs thinking that maybe they could be the first step in helping free her family.
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2nd Part
Naval Engagement
New Syrtis, Capellan March
Federated Suns
11th October 3091
Between New Syrtis and its sun the FSS Damien Hasek along with its escorting DropShips had moved to engage the unidentified Tracker and its eleven DropShips. The Congress Block II attempted to engage the Tracker with its forward mounted Kraken Tele-operated Capital Missiles however the Tracker's escorting DropShips set up a massive screen ahead of their WarShip making it impossible for the missiles to hit. One the DropShips was hit by a missile strike but for the most part the Damien Hasek's attack were completely ineffective.
Continuing to close on the DropShips the Damien Hasek's naval autocannons opened up destroying one of the DropShips however for the most part they were too well armoured. The Tracker then waded into the battle engaging the Damien Hasek with its own weapons including naval autocannons, Barracuda capital missiles and Swordfish sub-capital missiles. As DropShips swarmed the Damien Hasek's gunners struggled to track them and the enemy WarShip even with two supporting DropShips the Congress had no chance. As a final indication to show the Tracker meant business one of the DropShips rammed the Congress obliterating both in a ball of flame. Before the Damien Hasek was destroyed the ship's sensors confirmed that the Tracker was transmitting an IFF, one that identified it as the Krait formerly of the Rim Worlds Republic.
With the Damien Hasek destroyed and its two supporting DropShips crippled limping through space the Krait and its remaining nine DropShips continued on towards New Syrtis the world now completely vulnerable.
Sea Fox Hall
Twycross
Sea Fox Occupation Zone
14th October 3091
When the Nova Cat WarShips Radstadt, Ranger and Mastiff had entered the Twycross system they had been confronted by a Gatekeeper System Traffic Control Space station and two hollowed out Bastion Space stations which Clan Sea Fox had been using to store cargo and as meeting places. After a brief negotiation the Radstadt had been allowed to travel to the planet while the rest would remain at the jump point.
The journey would normally take nearly three weeks however the Radstadt had pushed its engines to a full two-g for the duration of the trip not too uncomfortable but bad enough. Since arriving in orbit the crew and passengers on board the Conqueror-class vessel had been ordered to light duties, as far as the Sea Foxes were concerned the Nova Cats were their allies. As a result of the two Clan's long standing partnership Oathmaster Sonja Rosse and her DropShip had been allowed to land unmolested and she had been escorted to the great hall of Clan Sea Fox in the capital settlement on the world.
Soon after Sonja's arrival Khan Hanna Coston had arrived her Elemental birthing showing as she towered over Sonja. The Sea Fox Khan greeted her warmly “Oathmaster Rosse, we had not expected a visit from Clan Nova Cat. Your supplies of Harjel should not have run out so soon?†She asked Sonja smirked not surprised the Sea Fox Khan was keeping track on the sealing agent. Clan Sea Fox controlled its only known source here on Twycross it had given them an advantage for many years.
“Neg, they have not, I have other matters that I wish to speak with Clan Sea Fox.â€
“Then speak and the Sea Fox will listen.â€
“Neg†Sonja Rosse said once more seeing the confusion on Hanna Coston's face “I wish to address all of Clan Sea Fox's leaders.â€
“I am leader of Clan Sea Fox†Hanna Coston said angrily.
“Neg, you are a figurehead†Sonja Rosse said “your Clan is so broken now it is difficult to distinguish you from the Fire Mandrills†she continued dismissively of Coston's claims “I wish to speak with all your Khanate leaders at once. This is a message you should all hear.â€
“That could take some time.â€
“Which is quite alright Khan Coston†Sonja Rosse said smiling again “I have three WarShips, six JumpShips and a Galaxy of warriors. We are in no hurry and have quite enough supplies to make this a permanent stay.â€
“If you tried we would destroy you†Hanna Coston replied the hostility in her voice now unmissable a complete contrast to how she had approached today's meeting.
“You could try, however there would also be a chance that we would destroy you and seize this little world.†Sonja Rosse said “I know what you hold most dear is not on this particular world but once we control it how long do you think you could hold onto the rest?â€
“That is a declaration of war!†Hanna Coston snapped
“Neg, it is a statement of fact. We are the Clans Hanna Coston we do not go to war we fight battles and claim what we want. If I wanted this world I would have already taken it. I want to speak with your Clan leadership, that will be done or I will fight every Sea Fox I see until it happens!â€
“You tread a fine line, Nova Cat.â€
“Aff, as do we all Hanna Coston†Sonja snapped back before marching out of the Clan Hall. Her forces would remain on alert on the planet although she did not expect any underhand movements from them. She knew that in the system somewhere the Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft Luna would have entered the system by now and be monitoring what was happening on Twycross, should something go wrong the Ranger, Mastiff and the JumpShips which waited at the jump point would execute an inter-system jump and come to her aid. Most likely they would all die together but they would cripple the Sea Foxes on Twycross if it came down to a battle, and Khan Hanna Coston knew it, hopefully that alone would stop the merchant Clan from doing anything stupid.
First Royal Battle Armour Corps Command Base
New Canton, Star League Protectorate
20th October 3091
Morning came to New Canton earlier than normal for the SLDF Officers and troopers of the First Royal Battle Armour Corps command base as an assault force opened fire on the base. Several explosions rocked the base as two hardened bunkers were targeted by the enemy force. Even as the Battle Armour troopers mobilized to defend the base the Manei Domini spread out engaging everything that moved from civilians to technical staff targeting all vehicles and buildings.
Fortunately for the SLDF the Fifth Royal Pathfinder Battle Armour Battalion, which had been responsible for perimetre defence reacted quickly to the threat posed engaging the Manei Domini force. With the limited BattleMech and VTOL support available to the Battalion however they were heavily outgunned taking heavy casualties as they engaged the enemy forces. Their sacrifice allowed the Twentieth and Twenty-first Royal Battle Armour Battalions to mobilize sufficiently to continue the defence of the facilities. The enemy force continued to attack for another eight hours despite the SLDF reinforcement causing heavy casualties to both SLDF Battalions can further damage to the Corps Command and Training facilities. Finally with the arrival of SLDF air support from New Canton Spaceport the defenders were able to turn the tide against the attackers finally eliminating them six days after the beginning of the first attack.
Due to the damage done by the attacks the Fifth Royal Pathfinder Battalion is declared as officially destroyed while the Twentieth and Twenty-first are each at less than half strength. Instead of stepping all three commands down off the SLDF TO&E the Battle Armour Corps Command announces that the survivors will be merged into a new command the First Royal Battle Armour Corps Defender Battalion, under the command of the Twenty-first's commander Colonel Brian Turvey, it is also announced that this unit will be increased to full regimental strength when the funds and personnel become available. Throughout the other four SLDF Battle Armour Corps formations suggestions that further Defender Battalions are formed are made however no plans are formalized.
Krait (Modified Tracker-class Surveillance Vessel)
New Syrtis, Capellan march
Federated Suns
20th October 3091
With Davion naval defences eliminated the Krait continued in system to New Syrtis. Once it arrived near the planet near a dozen Pocket WarShips approached the Krait and its supporting DropShips. Although well armed by a DropShips standards these vessels were no match for a WarShip's firepower, even one as small as the Krait. With its supporting DropShips the Krait was able to quickly overwhelm the Davion defenders despite receiving several damaging shots from the Pocket WarShips Sub-Capital Missiles and Autocannons. Six of the Krait's remaining DropShips were eliminated during the attack limiting the vessel's firepower.
As the Krait moved into orbit over New Syrtis the population of the planet were ordered to bunkers, not used since the early Succession Wars, from airbases across New Syrtis aerospace fighters raised to engage the attacking forces however none had the firepower to stop the attackers. On the morning of the 22nd October 3091 a little after 05:00 the first naval autocannon shells struck downtown Saso City. Not targeted on any military target the bombardment instead focused on the worlds Capital city as it continued until 18:32hrs when a Jump signature was detected by the Krait at a pirate point not far from New Syrtis. The FSS Crucis March, a Davion III-class Destroyer, which had been deployed to the Pleiades Cluster to assist the AFFS defence there had been recalled by New Syrtis following the destruction of the Damien Hasek the destroyer's crew had hot-charged its jump drive to make the necessary jumps back clear of Pleiades and to New Syrtis. Now with the FSS Crucis March charging down at them the already damaged Krait and its much reduced escort force had little option but to abandon its bombardment however instead of purely retreating the Krait moved through the nearby New Syrtis shipyards taking heavy damage, and losing its remaining three DropShips, from the shipyard's fixed defences but in the process crippling the New Syrtis Shipyards and destroying two partially completed Hound-class Corvettes under construction within the yard.
The attacking WarShip then turned back towards the jump point intent on using its head start and the distraction of the crippled shipyards to escape from the FSS Crucis March. The Federated Suns Davion III instead ignored devastation brought to New Syrtis and to the shipyards and continued pursuit of the Krait into the star system.
What followed was a three day chase through the system as it appeared the Krait would escape the chasing Crucis March. This was until the Vidar, Foundation Industries Riga-class Frigate, arrived at the Jump point. Relieved from its post in the Safe Port system by the FSS Bravery the Vidar had been sent back to report to New Syrtis that Safe Port had never been attacked by the Capellan Confederation and all was well. The company owned Vidar detected the Krait retreating from New Syrtis and the FSS Crucis March in pursuit. Surveying the system the sensors on board the Vidar reported the wreckage of the Damien Hasek, the damage to the New Syrtis Shipyards and the damage on New Syrtis.
Declaring the Krait hostile before even receiving word form the AFFS as such the Foundation Industries crew on-board the Vidar sent a message to the vessel ordering it to stand down while at the same time powering up the Frigate's multiple weapons arrays. With no response from the incoming Tracker-class vessel, and the Vidar receiving a message from the FSS Crucis March of the vessel's hostile nature, the Riga's gunners opened fire. Multiple naval lasers and particle cannons tore into the Krait as it closed on the jump point with a series of Naval auto cannons finishing the job as the enemy vessel came into range.
With the battle over the FSS Crucis March was able to return to New Syrtis to begin assisting the world with disaster relief operations. The Vidar also remained in the system collecting wreckage from the Krait and from its DropShips for analysis and identification. The Vidar also assisted with recovery operations from the wreckage of the Damien Hasek, where six crewmen were found alive within an escape pod which had not been launched from the wreck, and at the New Syrtis Shipyards.
By the end of October it became clear that due to the damage done to Saso City and the AFFS command facilities that New Syrtis could not coordinate the March's defence under orders from the Field Marshal of the Capellan March Nathaniel Hasek all Capellan March commands and control to be routed through Kathil while Tikonov was asked to provide further assistance until New Syrtis recovered.
Tech Deployment
University of Thorin, Thorin
Star League Protectorate
28th October 3091
After three years of development and testing on various platforms the AR-15 Multi-Sub Capital Missile launcher is fully certified for full deployment on DropShip, WarShip and Space Station platforms. As a result the technology is distributed to the embassy’s of all member states of the Star League. Scientists and engineers at the University of Thorin announce that further testing is continuing to perfect the weapon system for planetary defence. Native of Thorin and Commanding-General of the SLDF Archer Christifori personally endorses the work done at Thorin and congratulates them for continuing with their work despite the threats posed during this current turbulent time. Unconfirmed reports place an entire squadron of Pocket WarShips within the Thorin system all equipped with the new weapons system leading to questions from some embassy’s in regards to exactly how far along in deployment the AR-15 is for the Star League Defence Force.
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Time for some more a bit of a talky part setting up the next part which is all pointing to one big fight. Just in case anyone is worried yes there's lots of WarShip fighting going on (big reason for that I've got lots of them flying around and there fun) but there's also a lot of Mechs involved or going to be. I'm trying at the moment to balance big fights with character moments. Once I've jumped through the hoops I've made for the Manei Domini part of this AU it'll hopefully feel a bit more balanced as things change a bit more.
Clan Sea Fox Council
Twycross, Clan Occupation Zone
5th November 3091
The Clan Council of Clan Sea Fox had representatives of each of of the Clan's Khanates within it none of them looked particularly happy at being summoned to Twycross by the Khan which showed exactly what the problem with Clan Sea Fox was too disjointed. “You are called to order†Khan Hanna Coston said loudly settling the members of the Council “we are visited by a member of Oathmaster Sonja Rosse of Clan Nova Cat who wishes to speak with you all.†She said turning to Sonja nodding for her to stand stepping in front of the Council.
“Members of Clan Sea Fox our Clans have always been allies in trade and in combat. We have both prospered through this relationship, do any of you disagree?†She asked looking around the members of the Clan none spoke up “I did not think so†she said continuing “then I will be the one to disagree.†She said her anger raising “Clan Sea Fox has a serious issue in its trade partners. No longer are you happy to only trade with the other Clans but you have decided to trust in the Inner Sphere and the Periphery nations.†There was a murmour of noise through the Clan Council “our Clan has been a victim of your trading in advanced Clan weaponary and I am telling you that it has to stop.â€
“It has to stop?†Angus Labov called out “what a we children in a creche? We deal with who we wish.â€
“Neg, you do not†Sonja said looking back at the saKhan “Angus Labov, there was a Grand Council in 3056 where dealings with the Inner Sphere was discussed.†She said quietly “in it each of the Clans agreed that second-line BattleMechs, conventional vehicles, basic individual weaponary and Harjel were all acceptable trades with the Inner Sphere.†She said listing what each of Clans had agreed was acceptable, Clans Jade Falcon, Rasalhague Dominion and Hell's Horse rejected the idea completely while Clans Nova Cat and Snow Raven made a small amount of trades within the agreed limits while the Sea Fox had made the most of it.
“We trade within the agreed terms of all the Clans†Hanna Coston said Sonja could tell tell by the sound of her voice that it was the truth.
“Not all of you have adhered to this†Sonja snapped back her focus not on Hanna but on Angus Labov. “I do not know how many of you are involved but one person in this chamber I know authorized trade of front-line equipment to the Taurian Concordat including Heavy Lasers, Advanced Tactical Weaponary and OmniMechs. SaKhan Angus Labov, you authorized the sale correct?â€
“Not that it has anything to do with you†he said glancing at Hanna Coston seeing the anger crossing her face “I authorized Predator Khanate to contact the Taurian Concordat. They had been struggling to combat the Federated Suns due to Nova Cat shipments of armour and weapons. You cannot corner a market and not expect competition.â€
“There are limits...†Sonja Rosse began but Hanna Coston had raised her hand silencing Sonja.
“There are limits†the Khan repeated “the other Clans are still our biggest customers should they hear of our dealings†she said looking at Sonja “then we could face isolation.â€
“To highlight this cost†Sonja Rosse said breaking in bringing the focus back on her “Clan Nova Cat forces have seized your territory on Memphis in a Trial of Possession. Your traders and their goods are ready for collection from the world at your nearest convenience.†Now Hanna Coston looked angry at the Nova Cat Oathmaster.
“You turn on us? We have been partners for centuries.â€
“Partnerships can be broken Khan Coston†Sonja said glancing around the room “they can also be rebuilt, put your Clan in order and we shall see.â€
“You do not make ultimatums in this room...†Angus Labov said angrily raising to his feet
“Silence!†Hanna snapped loudly raising to her feet she dwarfed the aerospace fighter pilot beside her. “Oathmaster Sonja Rosse, I thank you for bringing this to my attention, your forces will have safe-passage from this world and you can inform your Khan we will remove our forces from Memphis soon.†She said dismissing Sonja although the Oathmaster did not like being dismissed in such a way she could see her message had been passed clearly.
Hours later before Sonja's DropShip left the surface word passed through the population that Hanna Coston had forcefully removed Angus Labov from the position of saKhan, and as leader of the Snapping Jaws Khanate, and the leader of the Predator Khanate Galaxy Commander Raven Ghilbert in separate Circles of Equals. Both Khanates would be replacing their leaders when the warriors of each had assembled. Content her mission had been a success Sonja Rosse and her DropShip left the surface of Twycross to begin the journey home.
Rycon (Columbia-class Battleship)
Kathil, Capellan March
Federated Suns
10th November 3091
Following the attack on New Avalon a state wide search had begun for the renegade vessel Rycon however the Federated Suns hadn't needed to look for the vessel for its crew were not left terrorizing the nation that had originally built the craft. Entering at a rarely used pirate point on the far edge of the system the Rycon and its fighters made for Kathil using the widest possible course running on the lowest power possible. A vessel this large was however impossible to hide on the 7th November AFFS warning sensors detected the craft causing the defenders of the system to swing into action the FSS Samuel Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser, and the FSS Arden Sortek, a Congress Block II-class Frigate, along with eight Pocket WarShips and three Fighter wings deployed near and around Kathil and the McKenna shipyards.
Two days later the Rycon arrived near Kathil moving into the range of the AFFS defence. Almost immediately the Battleship faced dozens of capital missiles that even its anti-missile systems and its fighters could not stop. As the Rycon began to take heavier missile damage the ship changed its course away from Kathil engaging the defenders and the shipyards with long range Naval Laser fire nothing that would effectively threaten the AFFS WarShips or the Shipyards but enough to critically damage the FSS Sarah Davion, the first Avalon Block II, which was still under construction at the yard the collapse of the vessel's hull spread debris across the shipyards disturbing production for weeks although the actual damage to the facilities at the McKenna Shipyards was minimal.
As the Rycon turned away from the shipyards the FSS Samuel Davion and FSS Arden Sortek followed at a close distance continuing to pepper the vessel with Capital missiles while some of these were intercepted by the Rycon's fighters enough hit the Port landing bays for them to be completely destroyed. Unable to land all their fighters the Rycon sent them on suicide runs at the pursuing AFFS vessels although most were destroyed before entering effective weapons range two were able to slip through one slamming into a Conquistador Block Runner while the other slammed into an Excalibur type DropShip the combined kinetic forces tore the two craft to pieces. The Rycon's superior speed took the craft out of the range of the defenders weapons range Davion monitoring stations confirmed the vessel's departure from the system early on the 11th November with a confirmed KF Jump detected at one of Kathil's pirate points.
Command Meeting
Snow Raven Command, Famindas
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
14th November 3091
With the ongoing fighting across the Inner Sphere Khan Sterling McKenna had called for a briefing with several of her Galaxy Commanders and her saKhan Brodrick Sukhanov. “The world of Tresspass has accepted our rule without issue, we should not need a large defence force on the world they have a small population and report that their world have been visited infrequently.†He said reporting on the Snow Raven's recent annexing of another world from the so-called Outworlds Wastes a region of the periphery that was once part of the Outworlds Alliance but was now largely abandoned. Work is continuing on restoring the SLS Hood to operational status however the ship is not expected to be jump capable for another year, perhaps longer.â€
“Too long†someone muttered the ancient Star League-era Dreadnaught was a source of pride for the Ravens however it was also becoming a sore point as the vessel remained stranded in the Wynn's Roost system.
“The Federated Suns has been attacked on New Avalon, Kathil, the Pleiades Cluster and there are unconfirmed reports that the world of Safe Port is under assault.†The saKhan said continuing “the Draconis Combine similarly have faced multiple attacks and the DropShip crash on Midway a couple of months ago has been attributed to the Manei Domini.†Brodrick Sukhanov explained taking a drink from the glass on the table in front of him.
“And the Nova Cats?â€
“There attack on the Sea Fox trade outpost was a surprise to everyone, something major has happened between the two Clans which our Watch still has not found. For Filtvelt their attack was possibly more worrying as the Nova Cats have gone on to completely seize the world.†Brodrick said taking another drink the saKhan was visibly sweating as he delivered his report.
“Any other actions?†The Khan asked but Brodrick was not looking in her direction. “saKhan?†She asked quietly but firmly but still he didn't answer instead he appeared to be staring straight over her head. “Brodrick†she said more forcefully nodding at one of the Galaxy Commanders who leaned over and gently touched the man's arm the saKhan collapsed off the chair falling to the side shaking uncontrollably. “Get a medic!†The Khan shouted as Snow Ravens dived down to try and help the man but it was too late by the time the medics had arrived he was dead.
Across Alpheratz's capital city more than three thousand further deaths occurred before it was realized that a poison had entered the world's water supply. Before the water was isolated and cleansed of the poison more than eight thousand people have been infected with hundreds in critical condition and with five thousand six hundred-and-thirty-two dead. How the water supply to the capital became infected was a complete mystery one that remained uncovered even after the Snow Ravens investigated everyone who worked at the processing plants that served the city.
SIS Candice Allard-Liao (Newgrange-class Yardship)
Pirate Point, St Loris
St Ives Compact
18th November 3091
For seven months the SIS Candice Allard-Liao had hidden in the St Loris system constructing six Pocket WarShips intended on serving the St Ives Compact. Routine cargo ships brought the Newgrange a near continuous stream of equipment and supplies for the ships construction. As a result the approach of two Mule-class vessels had not aroused suspicions aboard the Yardship, for days they had closed on the SIS Candice Allard-Liao and nothing had been mentioned. However as they closed the crew began to feel something was off neither vessel had communicated the codes required to dock and now they had also deviated from the correct approach course.
“Prepare to jump the ship†the Captain Omar Yanukovych ordered watching the two blips move ever closer “bring weapons online and prepare to target both of those vessels.â€
“Should we deploy the Comet?†His executive officer asked naming the Leopard CV-class DropShip.
“Negative, we'll jump before either of those ships enter effective range.†Yanukovych said quietly watching the two ships close. “Lock on targets lets see if that dissuades them.â€
“They could be a couple of pilots who haven't been informed on how they are supposed to approach?â€
“Warning shots with Naval Lasers, ready Barracudas on target at the very least they will crack a couple of armoured plates and get the message through.â€
“Firing lasers†one of the crew reported the SIS Candice Allard-Liao had been built originally by the SLDF was armed to defend itself but not a major battle. Its Naval Lasers and Barracuda launchers could hold off an attack but only briefly in this case hopefully these weapons would be enough to convince the Mules to turn away from the Yardship. “They are ignoring our lasers, Aerospace fighters launching from both craft!â€
“Mules don't carry Aerospace fighters†the executive officer pointed out “Capital Missile Launch, we've got eight... sixteen missiles incoming.â€
“All conventional weapons to point defence, Anti-Missile Cannons at the ready.†Yanukovych called out “what is the charge on the jump drive?â€
“Eighty percentâ€
“Cut in fusion reactors†Yanukovych ordered watching the missiles close, a second salvo fired from the incoming Mules “Q-Ships†the Candice Allard-Liao's commander cursed as the first missiles were engaged by the ship's anti-missile systems. Unfortunately it was too much them and two of the missiles struck the ship.
“Killer Whalesâ€
“At least there not nuclearâ€
“Minor damage to rear areas, damage crews enrouteâ€
“All weapons fire on those DropShips and fighters†Yanukovych ordered as a third salvo launched from the DropShips by now the fighters were entering weapons range as well although they would face the Candice Allard-Liao's close in weapons they would no doubt cause more damage.
“Jump drives at ninety-eight, nine, one hundred percent!†The engineer called out triumphantly as the Yardship was struck by more capital missiles and by aerospace fighters on strafing runs.
“Secure all stations, all weapons final firing solutions then move to safe mode, cut reactor power to the jump drives†Yanukovych ordered multiple stations flashed green as their systems moved to safe mode the Yardship continued to shudder under the punishment from the incoming DropShips although the aerospace fighters had pulled back.
“All stations report secure sir†his executive officer reported.
“Jump the ship†he ordered, it was the final order he gave and final action that the crew of the SIS Candice Allard-Liao carried out. The damage done to the Yardship had been light, but it had been significant enough to cause problems in the fragile jump drive of the ship. As the engine activated attempting to “throw†the vessel from this system into another the K-F Core cracked, in most cases this event would mean the ship's engine failed to complete the jump and burned out stranding the WarShip, in this case this event cause a chain reaction of explosions along the jump drive assembly blowing the core from the inside out as it tore along the Yardship. When the explosions reached the construction bays and the partially constructed Pocket WarShips within it the ship was already crippled, the further explosions in the cargo and construction bays blew the Candice Allard-Liao into thousands of pieces obliterating everything inside and around the vessel.
The two Mules turned away from the site recovering their surviving fighters and slipping away before anyone could find them. An investigation pointed towards the Capellan Confederation as being the source of the attack and that key support ships that should have been on station at the Candice Allard-Liao's location had been redirected by elements on St Loris which were linked to the Capellan regime.
Ghost Bear Charge
Irece Prefecture, Draconis Combine
21st November 3091
After six months of silence from the Rasalhague Dominion following the nerve-agent attack on Buckminster which claimed the majority of Beta Galaxy the Ghost Bears awoke. Launching a deep strike against Avon in the Draconis Combine after the Watch pointed to a Manei Domini unit basing off of the world to launch attacks against the Rasalhague Dominion and against the Draconis Combine.
Under the command of Loremaster David Bekker the Rasalhague Dominion's Epsilon Galaxy, the Polar Bear Assault Galaxy, launched a direct attack on Avon surprising the Forty-third Shadow Division and the Fourth District of Pesht Regulars. The Fourth Pesht Regulars had been bloodied against the Rasalhague Dominion in 3077 and had held a grudge ever since leading to their open support for the for the Shadow Division. David Bekker did not care if they were Combine troops or Manei Domini the six clusters of the Polar Bear Assault Galaxy landed on the planet targeting anything else that was armed. With hours the Draconis Combine and Manei Domini units had been destroyed by the Rasalhague Dominion forces costing the Ghost Bears the First Polar Bear Assault Cluster.
Following the securing of Avon the Rasalhague Dominion troops spread out into the Port Arthur, Tarazed, Asgard, Yamarovka and Maulang systems securing them all forcefully ejecting the Draconis Combine troops where necessary. In the Maulang system the DCS Inazanagi retreated in the face of the Rasalhague Dominion advance following orders from the Draconis Combine High Command falling back to the Caripare system.
Inner Sphere Clan Council
HPG Broadcast
22nd November 3091
Although they had no unified command structure, and had not since the Great Refusal, secure lines of communication were important to all of the remaining Clans for trade and to keep track of the various Inner Sphere states. Today the Khans had agreed to this “Council†conducted through the “Chatterweb†HPG network by Clan Sea Fox.
“My fellow Khans we all see the threat of the Manei Domini, their actions in the Free Worlds League and across the Inner Sphere have been destructive on a scale that the Inner Sphere has not experienced since their Succession Wars and that we have not seen since the Pentagon Wars.†Khan Canin Rosse began sitting in his office looking at the screens filled with Khans from across the Inner Sphere. There was a significant lag in the transmission for the furthest afield Khan however after a few moments they had all heard his words the Jade Falcon, Sea Fox and Wolf Khans looked little interest but Canin continued. “I've experienced a vision that the Manei Domini plan only destruction and that they are heading for Terra.†He said he noticed multiple eyes roll when he mentioned “vision†none of the others Clans had much belief in the Nova Cats visions however they perked up when he mentioned the word Terra, many of the Clans still held dreams of holding Terra. “So far the Manei Domini have burned a path of destruction striking at worlds not for conquest but for destruction. They have burned Gibson of all life, attacked and destroyed much of Galatea, and destroyed much on many other worlds. They have used weapons that all of us have long abandoned in their quest for destruction.†He said allowing his words to pass to all the Khans.
“And what would you have us do Khan Rosse?†The Hell's Horses Khan asked
“I would have you unite, place forces directly in the path of the Manei Domini...†he began as the first part of his transmission reached the other Khans the new Jade Falcon Khan Uvin Buhallin burst into laughter drowning out Canin's words.
“The Nova Cat Khan talks of unity and yet he recently removed his own saKhan?†The Jade Falcon said recalling the recent death of saKhan Michael Drummond at the hands of Khan Canin Rosse.
“Aff, I do†Canin said “my vision showed me that the Manei Domini will burn everything that they touch. Including Terra if they are allowed to reach it.â€
“Why should we care, none of us hold Terra†Khan Hanna Coston of Clan Sea Fox said Canin could see she was still angry following Oathmaster Sonja Rosse's recent visit.
“Why should we care?†An almost instant reply came from Khan Carl Heller, leader of Clan Coyote, said “we were formed by the Founder to Protect Terra it is a call we can all recognize.â€
“We were formed to conqueror Terra†Uvin Buhallin said his eyes sparkling at the prospect. We can protect the cradle of humanity by seizing it.â€
“Neg†Canin Rosse said cutting in “warden or crusader among you hear me. Anyone who attempts to use this call as one to conqueror Terra will face the full force of Clan Nova Cat.â€
“As if that should scare us?†Khan Nathan Fetladral asked smiling
“Total war among the Clans should put fear among us all†Snow Raven Khan Sterling McKenna said sharply “we do not need to see a repeat of the fighting in the Homeworlds.†All of the Khans remained silent for several moments none wishing to think of the chaos that had engulfed the place that had birthed them.
“Regardless of what we believe Terra's fate should be we all have to agree having that world burned to a crisp is the last thing any of us want.†Canin Rosse said looking at them all none could argue with his point “I am taking the Severn Lervoux Naval Star to defeat the Manei Domini to offer the Inner Sphere our assistance and our steel. I welcome you all to send forces to join us.â€
“Join you?†Uvin Bulhallin asked “unless you have decide to attack you can count us out.â€
“Clan Wolf has no interest in this conflict†Nathan Fetladral said quietly “however we will not not see Terra burn. The Dire Wolf and Night Warrior will join you Khan Rosse along with an attached ground element.â€
“You will have Clan Snow Raven's full support†Sterling McKenna agreed
“And once the Manei Domini have been destroyed in the Draconis Combine Rasalhague's Bears will stand with you.â€
“How do you propose to convince the Inner Sphere you are not a threat?†Nathan Fetladral asked he seemed interested in the Nova Cat plan despite the appearance that he wanted nothing to do with it.
“We will play on their fear†Canin Rosse said “we have the means to help then defeat the Manei Domini once and for all, if they turn us away they will have to rely on each other after centuries of mistrust.â€
“And if they turn on you what then?â€
“It will be the last thing they do. I am leaving word with my Clan that should such an event come to pass all of the Inner Sphere is to be counted as forfeit, war will be inevitable.â€
“Then we can only hope the Inner Sphere is stupid†the Jade Falcon Khan almost shouted before cutting his link, Clan Wolf followed quickly after then all the others leaving Canin to his thoughts, the first steps had been taken now he needed to convince the Federated Suns to allow them passage.
Conference Room, FSS Destiny
Zenith Point, Tikonov
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th November 3091
“Arch, are you being serious? I am the only Succession Lord attending this conference?†Victor asked angrily he was the reining First Lord but due to the troubles in the Federated Suns he'd been delayed and was still a month away from Terra and the next Whitting Conference. He'd called ahead to warn Commanding-General Archer Christifori of this and found that none of the other Succession Lords planned to make the trip, even Peter had chosen to remain at home sending his daughter in his place.
“It does appear that way First Lord†Archer Christifori said using Victor's Star League position. “As a result there will be no other outcome but for you to retain the position.â€
“I do not like this†Victor muttered “this is not a position I covet I am not my father or my grandfather or any other Davion throughout history I don't want to rule the entire Inner Sphere.†He complained “the idea was that each leader would face being the First Lord, each nation would feel the burden of supporting the League instead the Federated Suns now faces its fourth term holding this mantle.â€
“If it makes you feel any better, sire, you do hold the position well.â€
“It does not†Victor said quietly “what of the Manei Domini? Do you have anything else on them?â€
“Their ground forces have slipped into the shadows and at present we know of none that are fighting openly. The fighting the Dragoons and Highlanders have encountered on Devil's Rock has been heavy but it has all been local fighting, more than likely armed by the Manei Domini, made up of fighters from the local gangs and people out to make a name for themselves. Both merc units have taken casualties but they can hold.†Archer explained the Wolf's Dragoons had been out of the market for a little while now mending wounds brought by the riots of Outreach they'd answered the SLDF's call for assistance but lacked recent combat experience and looking at the reports Victor could see the Dragoons involved were not the Wolf's Dragoons of the past. Back up by elements of the Northwind Highlanders the Dragoons were holding their own but it showed they'd been in a fight. “From what we can tell Fleet elements that belong to, or are allied with, the Manei Domini have been sighted in the Nova Roma, Merak, Gan Singh and Nathan systems.†Archer said continuing with his report “they appear to be converging on the Star League Protectorate however their overall goal is not apparent.â€
“It doesn't make any sense, with the forces they have deployed, as advanced as they have been, they have had no concentrated effort instead they have struck and faded into the dark or fought until they died. They don't appear to have any type of long term plan of conquest or have made any attempt to hold territory.â€
“Our analysis agrees with what you have just said, they appear to burn brightly but for very short periods. Unfortunately that does raise an ugly question, should they reach the Star League Protectorate what exactly will they do? Their ground forces have taken as much damage as they have delivered but those WarShips are another matter entirely.†Archer said understandably he was worried about the threat the Manei Domini posed.
“We need to neutralize them mobilize as many SLDF WarShips as you can prepare to concentrate them somewhere near Terra but perhaps not solely in that system. When my squadron arrives we will take up a similar position then when the Manei Domini arrive we will all jump in on top of them and engage. I have the Davion Heavy Guards and the Royal Black Watch with me so if they go to ground we'll be ready for them.â€
“I'll get things sorted hopefully we can catch them in place, if we miss them then it could get very messy.â€
“It's simple then, we don't miss†Victor said with fake confidence. Archer Christifori nodded then saluted before cutting his transmission. Immediately Victor noticed another message waiting in the Destiny's message banks opening it he saw the face of Khan Canin Rosse the leader of Clan Nova Cat who had obviously been thinking along similar lines to Archer Christifori and himself. And with the Clansmen's thoughts came an offer so tantalizing and tempting but one that went against just about everything he believed in, had fought for, and for what the Star League Defence Force was supposed to stand for. The new SLDF had been raised to protect the Inner Sphere from the Clans, now the Clans wanted to protect the Inner Sphere? Victor guessed there would be one likely positive of him accepting Khan Rosse's proposal, when the other Succession Lords heard of this he'd never be First Lord again.
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Elsewhere in the Inner Sphere...
My thanks to James Tanaga for help with the Fire Mandrill's story and a wish for a speedy recovery!!
Federated Suns Offensive
Capellan March/Pleiades Cluster
Periphery
1st December 3091
Despite Victor Steiner-Davion's plan to head off the Manei Domini threat the attacks on the Pleiades Cluster, New Syrtis and Kathil had left the Capellan March rattled and frustrated. Unable to breach the Capellan Confederation's defences without help from New Avalon or retake the Pleiades Cluster without massive casualties the Capellan March regional commanders turn their attention on the Taurian Concordat.
With WarShips dedicated to the protection of production worlds the AFFS units jumped the border targeting the Taurian Concordat worlds from Althea's Choice to Amber Grove hitting a total of ten worlds. The attack force of six commands including the Fourth Davion Guards RCT and the Sixth Syrtis Fusilier RCT were supported by several mercenary commands including the recently hired Dyer's Devils commander by the Count of Tentative Jack Dyer.
Most worlds the Federated Suns troops encountered were under defended with the Taurians stripping their borders to support the attack on Pleiades. The attack on Amber Grove however was a different matter supported by the 3798th Provisional Test Battalion and the Fox's Teeth Company the Sixth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT found the Longwood's Bluecoats mercenary command an a significantly expanded militia force. Attempting a landing on the Hades continent the battle began badly for the AFFS force as the militia used nuclear tipped missiles to strike at the landing Sixth Syrtis Fusiliers killing half the unit in less than a minute. Dropping behind enemy lines the Fox's Teeth moved in behind the Taurian defenders eliminating their nuclear launch facilities with these gone the remains of the superior training and technology of the Syrtis Fusiliers proved too much for the defenders destroying the militia and the Longwood's Bluecoats. Following the battle the AFFS High Command announced the 3798th Provisional Test Battalion was to be merged with the Sixth Syrtis Fusiliers however even this was not enough to stop the unit being downgraded to an LCT. For Perdition the Alphard Trading Corporation of Perdition was leveled during the fighting while the population resorted to a series of passive resistance work methods in their attempts to undermine Federated Suns rule.
Draconis Combine Counter-attacks
Irece Prefecture, Draconis Combine
10th December 3091
As news passes throughout the Draconis Combine of the birth of Minoru Kurita's third child Yukiko the Warlord leads his Third Genyosha Regiment on an attack against the Ghost Bears garrisoning Avon. At the same time the recently reformed Fourth and Fifth District of Benjamin Regulars Regiments drop on Port Arthur further rolling back the the Rasalhague Dominion defenders while a newly formed Sixth District of Benjamin Regulars landed on Tarazed finding the world undefended other than a star of conventional security forces who surrendered without firing a shot. Finally surprising the Draconis Combine's enemies the Ninth Sword of Light Regiment land on Asgard the unit though struck from the rolls since its destruction fighting Clan Star Adder. Trained in the depths of the Draconis Combine out of sight of their enemies the unit comprised of elite MechWarriors from across the state and loyal to Minoru Kurita to the man steamroll the Rasalhague Dominion's First Polar Bear Guard Cluster.
Lyran Commonwealth assaults
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
14th December 3091
On another Clan border efforts to resist and possibly turn back the Clans continued as the Isle of Skye Command, of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces, acted. With the Fourth and Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards leading six mercenary units including the recently hired Iron Will, Splinted Shield and Broken Sword commands.
The Isle of Skye forces strike at Clan Wolf's sliver of worlds past Blue Diamond and on to Breukelen. Initially targeting the worlds of Ganshoren, Morningside and Fatima the Isle of Skye units and their mercenary support units find minimal resistance on the worlds despite these worlds being the closest Wolf worlds to Terra.
In the days following these attacks the LCAF Command send the Arcturan Guards supported by further mercenary units to attack the systems of Apostica, Leganes and Breukelen. Like the previously attacked worlds the LCAF find these worlds garrisoned by support and security forces which are quickly overrun by the Lyran forces liberating further planets. On the 30th December the Junkyard Dogs raid the world of Kelenfold which is still held by Clan Wolf unlike previous worlds the mercenary land find the First Wolf Assault Cluster. The elite Clan command is more than ready for a fight and pursues the Junkyard Dogs across the planet for six days before they are able to disengage and escape it appears that Clan Wolf is not ready to give up all its territory as further Lyran Commonwealth attempts to breach the occupation zone are met with heavy resistance.
President's Council
Gillfillian's Gold, Rim Collection
Preriphery
22nd December 3091
Lysa Djerassi sat in her wheelchair as President Eric Mayfield opened the President’s Council. Unlike the emergency session six days ago, where she informed the council of Cassandra Faraday’s death on Finmark and the new threat of the Stone Spirits, she could see the members of the council, both old and new, determined to unite together in a show of solidarity. That showed no more so then with General Jerry Able of the Rim Lancers sitting directly to her right. Since the joining of her kindraa with the Rim Collection, the man had kept his distance from her and often voiced his discontent of having her kindraa as members of the Collection, often saying either they were a direct threat or at the least, would lead the Lyrans into the Collection. Now, six days of working close together on how to handle the Stone Spirit threat to the Rim Collection had seemed to mellow the old man. Agreed beforehand, Lysa Djerassi allowed him to take the lead today.
“For the new members that have joined us, please remember everything we talk about today is considered state secrets of the Collection. General Able of the Rim Lancers, with Kindraa Adjutant Lysa Djerassi of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga, will give their report. General. Adjutant.â€
To her right, the old man spoke up. “Thank you Mister President. Lieutenant Jones will be giving each of you a full report.†As the other woman dressed in the day uniform of a Rim Lancer handed her a copy of the report the Rim Lancer uniform was an odd mix of Lyran Guard standard armour along with additions made by the unit this look owed much to the Rim Collection's brief time as part of the Lyran Commonwealth.
Lysa could help but admire the Collection in many ways they had joined the Lyran Commonwealth gaining much technological upgrades to both their military and civilian sectors and then within a generation had walked away without a conflict enacting a cause built into their agreement with the Commonwealth, the Lyrans for their part had honoured the Collection's decision not once asking for reimbursement for Lyran investments instead accepting a continued strong trade relationship. In many ways they had done what Lysa had wished Clan Fire Mandrill had done many years ago seen the benefits of trying to stay together but realized that apart they could be more effective while still remaining friendly and following many of the same ideals.
As she gave out the reports, General Able continued. “What is written in those reports is what is in our briefing so feel free to browse or you can just listen to what Adjutant Djerassi and I will lay out today.†A few chuckles came from the council Jerry Able had been around this road plenty of times, originally as a mercenary then a Lyran brigade commander and now as a half retired general, he knew exactly how to handle the politicians of the Rim Collection.
“For those not in the know, Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday led elements of her kindraa to the world of Finmark. There, she negotiated with the locals, the Fins as they like to be called, to join the Collection in return for evacuating them off the world along with the BattleMech factory complex. Unfortunately, in the last days of the evacuation, a group claiming to be called Clan Stone Spirit arrived. Page nine details what we know of "Clan" Stone Spirit, please not that according to our allies from Clan Fire Mandrill there is no known references to a Clan Stone Spirit. Adjutant Djerassi will provide you with further information as to this incident.†She answered Jerry Able’s nod in kind as those members who could read started flipping through the report to read about this new threat.
“Our forces in system included our sole heavy warship, the New Syrtis-class carrier Resolute, the Nineteenth Striker Cluster and Kindraa Command Supernova, attached DropShips and JumpShips, and the twenty assault Mechs and pilots of the Fin’s Defender Wing. On arrival, the Stone Spirits declared ownership of the system and its inhabitants with them they had a Samarkand Block Two carrier named Major Spirit, of which we have no previous record of, and two JumpShips, a Monolith and a Star Lord. After overpowering three Titan Monitors we had stationed near their jump point, they made planet fall close to the evacuating Fin settlement with three clusters worth of warriors." She said pausing to allow the numbers to sink in she knew that these people had never really faced a true Clan opponent nor had they needed to deal with the firepower three Clusters could bring to the table. "Upon the battle being initiated, Cassandra Faraday used a technique we developed for use against the fallen Clan Smoke Jaguar, which we believe at least some of the Stone Spirits share blood with, she managed to make roughly two-thirds of the enemy to follow her and her trinary, fifteen OmniMechs and pilots counting her, on a forty minute chase," She said pausing again seeing a raised hand "Councilor?â€
The man who raised his hand, Councilor Matthew Hayes of the member world of Slewis, a very obese man, looked confused for a moment. “Excuse me adjutant. But what’s a cluster or trinary?â€
She closed her eyes to keep from everyone see her eyes roll. Having to deal with questions like this was a chore she'd have thought her opening address would have cleared these points she dreaded the day that the three newly inducted systems into the Rim Collection joined this council and she had to go through all this again, especially when they used contractions. Opening them up, she looked to General Able, who nodded in her direction. The old man quickly explained to those of the council clan and inner sphere nomenclatures, which caused further worry on the Councilor's faces. Once Able had finished Lysa continued.
“As stated earlier, Cassandra Faraday identified the Stone Spirits as being survivors of two different clans, one being descended from Smoke Jaguar stock which briefly named themselves the Stone Rhinos the others we believe are survivors of the Blood Spirit Clan. These two cultures have fused together we can only guess through a sense of survival. The Smoke Jaguars were known for being a prideful lot that did not take insults well, she turned that to her advantage, insulting them and leading roughly two clusters away from the primary battlefield. Star Colonel Bryan Tanaga led his cluster and the Fin’s Defender Wing against those who stayed behind, eventually flanking them and effectively destroying the cluster, capturing eleven prisoners, Bryan Tanaga then evacuated his force to their DropShips. No sooner were they on their DropShips than Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday gave them orders to abandon her and her trinary to the enemy, though not before assigning Star Colonel Jerold Danforth as her replacement. Two days later, our forces successfully jumped away from Finmark, abandoning the world to the Spirits. From what we could see there was not much left on the planet to be of use for the Stone Spirits however we must assume they plan to search the former Rim Worlds Republic worlds for supplies, resources and salvage much like we have been doing.â€
A moment’s silence in the room went by, before President Mayfield spoke. “You and your Kindraa have our condolences Adjutant Djerassi.†Judging by his eyes, Lysa knew the older man spoke true.
Nodding her head, she answered the man solemnly. “She died a warrior’s death.â€
The other man nodded then looked to Jerry Able. “General, what is the threat status of these Stone Spirits and what are our Lancers and the Faraday-Tanaga doing in response?†Lysa Djerassi knew the president was not slighting her in preference of Jerry Able, for the man was just used to having Jerry Able as the primary military official in the room. That did not mean she had to like it though.
“Mister President. After interrogating the prisoners captured on Finmark one being a Star Captain, which is a Clan rank roughly equal to our Captain a company commander" he said explaining further the differences for those who did not know. "We now know the Stone Spirits plan to have a lasting presence as our neighbors. They also informed us of the Stone Spirits having nine clusters in strength, six being equipped with BattleMechs, as well as the aforementioned Samarkand and two JumpShips, and an Aegis-class heavy cruiser. This vessel alone, depending on its condition, could overwhelm any that we currently field.†He said gravely waving his hand to Lysa, he continued. “Even with Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga’s support on the ground, we are at best in equal numbers. Coupled with having to protect the new members, Mister President, we are too spread out to adequately defend the Collection without instituting immediate reforms in the military.â€
Many of the newer members started whispering to each other at this. Councilor Megan Hunt of Hiberius, if Lysa Djerassi remembered correctly, spoke up. “Does that mean you are withdrawing your protection of us?†No sooner did the slightly older woman asked this than pandemonium broke out in the council room current and provisional members began to disagree on who needed protection and who did not.
Interesting, Lysa thought to herself. She knew Hiberius was a former Rim Worlds Republic world that manufactured conventional vehicles. Since the end of the Star League, the world was set to its own devices largely forgotten by the Lyran Commonwealth and an unknown to the Rim Collection. Unlike all the other planets they had come across only Hiberius had maintained its industrial facilities and so it had been given a provisional position on the council unlike other new worlds. With a population of nearly a million and a military of conventional retro-tech vehicles, a force of roughly two light galaxies worth of conventional forces, the world easily kept pirates at bay. And with the said population under deserts and mountains, the world was thought of as the other new members were; inconsequential to outsiders. Still, Lysa grudgingly acknowledged, the Hiberius woman had a point, even if her planet was on the other side of the border.
President Mayfield took control then. “Enough!†He called out staring at the woman from Hiberius, who now had a smirk on her face. Turning to Lysa and General Able, he asked. “What are our military forces doing in response to this, Jerry? Adjutant Djerassi?â€
She allowed a smirk on her face as she saw the other woman scowl at her. While the Collection may want you to offset us, they need my kindraa, she thought ferally, more now than ever. She answered the older man still, since General Able had yet to do so, turning on the holo-projector built in the table as she did, bringing up a map of the Rim Collection. “Kindraa Leader Jerold Danforth has ordered both battle clusters to the border. Specifically, the worlds of Langhorne and Slewis. Additionally, the Nineteenth Striker will be based on Caldarium with the Fins Defender Wing for the time being. The First and Seventh Strikers are on patrol duty with their positioning on Waypoint bases due its centralized location. Lastly, the Sixteen Assault Supernova will patrol the internal worlds and be based on All Dawn and moving between Crimstown and Otisberg on an irregular schedule.†On the holo-projector, these worlds and the area of the patrols were highlighted. “While on patrol, these clusters and supernova respectfully will help train the militia of each world. With this in place, we can hopefully protect the new members of the Collection without overly weakening our position to the Lyrans.â€
The different members of the council nodded to themselves, with many of the newer members looking at the holo-projector with something akin to astonishment. President Eric Mayfield took charge once again. “I see. Jerry, with the Faraday-Tanaga military forces on our borders, am I correct your Lancers will be the primary force on our border with the Lyrans and if so, what are they doing?â€
Lysa caught a scowl come across the face of the commander of the Lancers then. She knew this was a hard point for him. Yet she also knew Jerold Danforth had talked sense to him. At least, she hoped so.
“After much deliberation, I have decided to reorganize the Lancers into two combat groups. Additionally, the combat groups will be divided into smaller, more mobile conventional clusters anchored by a BattleMech cluster. This will allow the Rim Lancers more mobility, which is what we need.†He said he, nor the Lancers operational commander Colonel Karen Able, had liked the idea of splitting the Lancers into smaller units despite the idea of them being more mobile hitting units.
By the look on the faces of six of the seven original councilors and President Mayfield, they were apprehensive. Most likely because of my kindraa, she thought with a snort. This time, she kept from rolling her eyes.
“Is this really necessary, General†asked the ancient Councilor Marietta Vansen of Caldarium.
“To properly safeguard the Collection, yes,†answered Jerry Able.
Time to show our solidarity, Lysa Djerassi decided, speaking up. “Additionally the Twelfth Support Cluster will be combining with our and All Dawn’s provisional garrison clusters to form a third combat group of the Rim Lancers. Once appropriate armor is assigned to the combat group, we will be making our Sixteenth Assault and the Fin’s Defender Wing into assault clusters, designed much like the Striker clusters. Instead of defensive, however, they will both be built for offense actions. In time, the First and Third Battle clusters will also form combat groups of their own.†She privately winced to herself the memory of Jerold Danforth’s reaction to this demand from Able over HPG. Nearly caused a riot among the Warrior Caste members on All Dawn from what she heard. Like the Lancers commander the members of the Kindraa did not like the idea of breaking their traditional units.
She saw many of the older members nodding while many of the newer councilors looked on with what appeared to be confused faces. President Mayfield spoke their thoughts then. “How did your Kindraa take this adjutant?â€
She allowed herself to openly wince, deciding to play for show. “Not well ovkhan" she said using the Clan rank for a superior she knew it would confuse the Councilors but it sounded good "they have however accepted it nonetheless.†She decided to humor the council and show her kindraa responding to their authority, less they become worried about her kindraa taking of even more power from them, and by the twinkle in his eyes, the president knew what she was doing.
He played along though, much to her amusement. “Very well Adjutant. Where will these three combat groups be based General Able?â€
“Operationally, all three will be under my command as the Rim Lancers Brigade. The First Rim Lancers will stay on Gillfillan’s Gold, under Karen Able's command, while the Second will be located on Otisberg. The Third will remain on All Dawn as we agreed. Correct Adjutant Djerassi,†he asked, glancing to her, as the holo-projector showed the changes.
Nodding, Lysa him, “Aff.†Councilor Marietta Vensen huffed, but was seemingly satisfied by her short answer.
“With the threat of the Stone Spirits and the re-positioning of our forces, can we still explore and recolonize the old Rim Worlds Republic worlds, Jerry,†asked President Mayfield.
“Explore yes. Recolonize them? Not for a while Mister President. We just do not have the military forces to safeguard the Collection.†Pausing, he looked at Councilor Megan Hunt of Hiberius. “I know Hiberius has an extensive military Mister President. However, we need them centralized in one unit on that side of our border to ensure our continued control over the region.â€
Megan Hunt seemed angry at that. “Mister President, with respect, the Hiberius Guards can protect those worlds! I believe General Able and Adjutant Djerassi are understating our ability in deference of theirs.†She could have been a decent clan warrior, Lysa concluded, as she caught the venom laced in that sentence.
Before either General Able or she herself could rebuke the councilor, President Mayfield again took control. “Councilor, if your world’s military forces draw up a plan to adequately safeguard those worlds who decide to join us, rest assured the President’s Council will review and likely acquiesce to those plans. Until that happens, however, I stand in agreement with General Able and Adjutant Djerassi.â€
“With respect, President! Is the Collection controlled by you and your sycophants? Or a PROPER democratic council?†That was the reply of the sullen Megan Hunt.
President Mayfield’s eyes narrowed on the councilor from Hiberius. “We are of course a proper democratic council, Councilor Hunt. I merely stand in agreement with the two over this matter. Should this council decide otherwise, we will of course acquiesce to the council. Now, do you want a vote to be called on this matter?â€
The woman from Hiberius looked around for support but saw little to none. “Not at this time Mister President,†she grudgingly answered, causing Lysa’s smirk to come across her face once more.
“Good. Now Adjutant Djerassi, you said earlier about Jerold Danforth agreeing to send technicians to Rim Motors?â€
For another three hours, the President’s Council conferred on the threat posed by the Stone Spirits and what Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga and the Rim Collection would need to do to answer it. As Lysa Djerassi wheeled herself out of the council chambers, she reviewed what had happened in her head.
First she agreed for her kindraa to provide technical support to Rim Motors on Otisberg and the Fins on Caldarium and provide schematics for the production of clan conventional vehicles in Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga’s arsenal to the Rim Collection, which she begrudgingly allowed. She did not worry about the Rim Collection, for they were for the most part inclined to self-defense. What worried her was Hiberius being given the schematics. In the end, however, the necessity of having conventional forces forced her to accept their access to the schematics.
Also decided was the establishment of a proper military academy on Gillfillan’s Gold, much to both her and Councilor Megan Hunt’s distaste. Hers was due to wanting the military to be established around traditional clan crèches and Hunt’s because of the refusal to use Hiberius’s academy as the primary military academy. Both would still be in use as secondary academies however and would train their world's forces for the most part.
In return, however, was the reforming of the Watch to be the Collection’s intelligence arm, though it would be years before it would be viable. That, along with an agreement for Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga to provide HPGs for the Rim Collection and to teach the Collection member-states on their use kept the balance in Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga’s favor. Lysa knew the latter was only a matter of time before they run their HPGs by themselves, but that still meant her kindraa had vast influence in the President’s Council.
At the end of the meeting was a shock though. Jerry Able had officially, unofficially, retired from the Rim Collection's armed forces his appearance at the council had been a formality and in time his position would be taken over by her Kindraa, possibly even Lysa herself. To keep Jerry Able in his position of influence, and apparently honour his long service an entire system was gifted to him to celebrate his retirement!
The system which had recently been discovered by a Faraday-Tanaga JumpShip, which made it worse, was vastly rich in resources, including an asteroid field which appeared to have an amount of germanium in it which was unparalleled throughout the Collection. It had been promptly named Able’s Glory and with these resources Jerry Able's position and his family's position was secure, President Mayfield had suggested to the President’s Council the possibility of perhaps the Rim Collection somehow manufacturing its own JumpShips in the future but in the meantime it the Germium could be sold to the Lyran Commonwealth of even the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey for millions of C-Bills much increasing the Rim Collection's coffers.
That discussion soon turned to what her Kindraa would do with its crippled Whirlwind-class destroyer, Warsaw. Unable to proper repair the armor and armaments, it was mothballed at the present time. President Mayfield, however, suggested the Kindraa trade it for parts or get it repaired at a shipyard. The latter was all well and good. The problem though laid with the only nation who could likely repair it was the Federated Suns and they were literally all the way across the Inner Sphere. In the end, she gave her permission for the president to send envoy to the Federated Suns to either trade it or get it repaired. Still, Lysa Djerassi privately considered that to be unlikely why would the Federated Suns a nation of hundreds of stars be interested in their crippled Destroyer?
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Updated with the new WarShip list
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/msg16482/#msg16482 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/msg16482/#msg16482)
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Some new WarShips on the Techlab section my thanks to Corsair_SG for all the help making these
The Varnay/First Prince-class Battleship http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/varnayfirst-prince-class-battleship/msg35888/#msg35888 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/varnayfirst-prince-class-battleship/msg35888/#msg35888)
And the Manei Domini vessel Krait http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/the-krait-(tracker-mod)/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/the-krait-(tracker-mod)/)
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New WarShip list attached in the Factions thread for the end of 3091
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/)
Also if anyone would like a copy of the End 3091/Start 3092 Map I've got a rough version of one available. If anyone wants it please PM me with your E-mail and I'll send a copy.
More timeline soon
EDIT: I've added the Artemis variant to the Diplomatic Escort Vessel - thanks to Corsair_SG's help
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/artemis-class-diplomatic-escort-vessel/msg11556/#msg11556 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/artemis-class-diplomatic-escort-vessel/msg11556/#msg11556)
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Now a proper update for the timeline - into 3092
3092
Manei Domini Attacks
Across Inner Sphere
3rd January 3092
As major fighting continues across the Inner Sphere and rumours of a massive WarShip fleet massing in the former Free Worlds League a series of smaller attacks is barely registered by the Inner Sphere media except on the worlds targeted. On the co-capital of the Marik Stewart Commonwealth, Stewart, and the key production worlds of Keystone, Hesperus II, Irian and Coventry each world faces raids-in-force from units no larger than a company.
These units strike during each world's night cycle or during heavy storms intent on sowing confusion, chaos and damage to each worlds infrastructure and defences before disappearing as quickly as they ha d come. On Hesperus II the attackers find a fierce defence and are rapidly driven back while the attackers on Stewart encounter an entire company of Bulwark Assault Tanks which had been out on a training mission. These vehicles recently imported from their factory on Kendall and armed with a mix of regular Gauss Rifles and Heavy Gauss Rifles completely wipe out the entire attacking force with a continuous strain of supersonic slugs. Salvage recovered on the world shows that each of the attacking Mechs were of the original Star League Defence Force's “Royal†class modified with C3i Computers and in some cases the Word of Blake developed Variable Pulse Lasers. The Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's SAFE Organization ensure that all salvage is removed from the planet and moved to a secure location.
By the 18th January these attacks have all but ceased with an uneasy calm spreading as only Regulus continues to be openly contested. Ten days later a new series of attacks that follow the same tactics as the first hits the worlds of Marik, Wasat, Hall and Liberty as the worlds of the Star League Protectorate become a direct target for the Manei Domini. On Marik a dirty bomb explodes on the Chavalet continent causing massive casualties and damage. While on the world of Wasat the Coulier's Cossacks originally of Nosiel had been signed by the SLDF to shore up defences immediately opposed the Manei Domini raiders. The mercenaries unique arrangement of six BattleMechs matched the raiders BattleMechs while the six aerospace fighters proved the ground forces with fire support. The Cossacks continued to fight driving them back to their DropShip before destroying the craft as it attempted to escape the planet.
ComStar Memorial Museum,
North America, Hilton Head Island
Terra, Star League Protectorate
12th January 3092
“Welcome to the ComStar Memorial Museum†Tour Guide Moira Kirkland said to the assembled tour. Moira was originally from New York City and had worked in several ancient building in the old city. She'd been offered a job here on Hilton Head Island and never looked back. Today she had a tour of thirty, one of six separate tours making their way around the sprawling facility that was once ComStar's and the Word of Blake's seat of power. “This was once the main receiving hall for those who had been called to speak with members of the First Circuit or the Ruling Conclave, depending on the era†she said as a Hurricane P17 Light Power Armour suit marched up “and this is “Adept†Kiran Michaelson-Lewis formerly a member of ComStar's elite Light of Mankind special forces command now one of our demonstrators and lead technicians.â€
“Ladies and gentlemen I need you all to move through to the First Circuit's chambers. Moira can show you the way, there is no reason to panic.†The trooper said his suit's speakers enhancing the volume of his voice. As he spoke several more suits followed Kiran into the room.
“Kiran, what is this?†Moira demanded in a hushed tone “This Tour has just started, we are not due in there for another hour, Tour Three should be there now.â€
“You need to move now!†Kiran said this time more forcefully stepping through the crowd the other troopers had moved around the crowd towards the doors.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, if you could accompany me, I'm sure everything will be fine...†Moira called out watching the moving Power Armour suits the crowd followed her gaze not moving for several moments. “Come now, this way to the First Circuit's Chambers built by Jerome Blake...†she said moments before being cut off by a massive explosion that engulfed the entrance door to the chambers and the Hurricane suits standing there.
The civilians turned into a rush trying to get away from the doors as the smoke cleared revealing at least one of the Hurricanes was still standing opening fire on an unseen enemy. Moira did her best to stay ahead of the crowd as they moved into the First Circuit's Chambers a large round room with several tables and seats. Already in the room were at least one hundred others from two other tours. The building shook heavily as it was rocked by another explosion then another, moments later the doors around the room burst open and almost a dozen Purifier Battle Armour suits charged in their armour changing its camouflage to match the building wall behind them. Moments later a red cloaked figure entered moving around the side of the chamber slowly with a distinct limp as they moved they took the podium where ComStar's Primus once would have stood. “I am Precentor Azrael, Commander of the Fifty-First Shadow Division of Blake's Holy Warriors.†The figure said his voice sounded partially mechanical, partially almost like a demon from hell “you and the others that have made these sacred walls home will be my guests for a little while. We will make your stay as comfortable as we are able however should you resist us our punishments will be severe and final.†The figure said before walking out of the room leaving the civilians alone.
When none of the tours left Hilton Head and communications from the island finished TerraSec forces moved in to check on the facility. These civilian security are no match for Azrael's forces and are wiped out to the man. Soon after Azrael spoke to the people of Terra “The Master has passed beyond to the grave however what he taught us remains true. I am Azreal, Hilton Head is a possession of the Word of Blake. Nine hundred of your citizens have been invited to extend their stay on the island with us and experience the new ruler ship first hand, and they have graciously accepted this invitation. They will not be harmed and nor will you if you do not strike at us.†He said looking directly at the camera “if you come here intending on causing us harm these 'guests' will be the first to feel it and then you shall suffer lingering deaths.†As if to emphasize his words Azrael's forces caused heavy damage to the four bridges leading to the island and destroyed five tourist ferry's which had been docked within Hilton Head's small harbour. The Terran garrison forces the First Royal ComGuard Brigade and the First Terran Guard Brigade set up a perimetre around the island's access points not allowing anyone to enter and guarding against anyone trying to leave the island.
Public Announcement
Bowang, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
22nd January 3092
In front of a small group of press figures the leader of the Bowang Free Trade Sphere, Prime Minister Sabine Grayden, took a small podium. She was entering her sixties and ready for retirement she had been the leader of Bowang when it was a free world and had continued until today into leading their nation. However today was not the day for those kind of thought instead she needed that confidence national leaders showed.
“Ladies and gentlemen today I would like to make an announcement, there will be no time for questions. After several weeks of discussion I would like to announce that the worlds of Newcastle, Futuna, Norfolk, Cajamarca, Ibarra, Home, Tumatu, Molokai, Tapachulo, Aconagua, and Panjang have chosen to sever their ties with the Principality of Regulus. They have done this not because they wish to abandon the Principality but because of the continued fighting on Regulus and the lack of leadership and guidance these worlds have recently received. We do not wish a conflict with Regulus over these worlds, any citizen who wishes to these worlds for the Principality are free to do so. To ensure that these worlds receive the best possible assistance and defence I would also like to announce the formation of the Second and Third Bowang Border Guard Regiments which will be rotated along the expanded border along with our mercenary support.†She said pausing “to the Prince of Regulus and her people we hope the decisions these worlds have taken does not strain our nations relations, however if you come looking for a fight we will be ready.†She said stepping away from the podium the small amount of press reports began asking questions but she quickly hurried from the room seeing one of her aides “watch where these reporters head I want to know if any contact the Regulan Embassy. And have our assets at the HPG station monitor who visits.†She said in a hushed voice the aide nodded a silent response she wanted to know how quickly their neighbours found out about these developments and more importantly how they would react even with Regulus still being contested by Manei Domini forces she guessed there would be a reaction from someone. As she headed into her office she almost smiled at the thought of the Regulans reactions to her advisers original proposals which were to approach Clipperton which her people had said was unhappy with the extended amount of time that Regulus had been contested. Clipperton and its shipyards would have been a prize to behold however it would have also set up Bowang as Regulus prime target for the future.
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Need to read this from step one, i like what i see.
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;D Nice update!
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Cool Need BlackHearts and SAS for rescue op.
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Need to read this from step one, i like what i see.
Considering how much you've helped that wouldn't hurt
Something a little extra
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/historical-intelligence-report-battle-of-the-stellar-fragment/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/historical-intelligence-report-battle-of-the-stellar-fragment/)
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Now less extras and more for the timeline
AFFS Announcement
Kathil, Kathil Combat Region
Capellan March, Federated Suns
10th February 3092
Standing in front of an open air gathering in District City on Kathil Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek looked the gathered crowd behind him were Duke Alderman VanLees, the Duke of Kathil, looking very pleased with himself and proceedings, Nathaniel knew why today was a crowning moment for the VanLees family or so they thought. Beside VanLees were two women Duchess Deborah Hasek, the noble leader of the Capellan March, and Cadet Kym Hasek, her daughter and a trainee in the AFFS, neither of them shared VanLees joy but then Nathaniel couldn't blame them. He had fought today's announcement with the High Command but their decision was final, or at least until something changed the circumstances, so far the First Prince had refused to become involved in the proceedings.
Clearing his throat Nathaniel moved closer to the mic “People of the Capellan March, and of the Federated Suns, today marks a very special day in our history. By special order delivered by the High Command Kathil has been named regional capital of the Capellan March effective this date. The Hasek family and your Duchess Deborah Hasek will remain as liege lords, the stewards for House Davion, but Kathil not New Syrtis will command all AFFS movements within the region.†He said pausing he saw the looks of confusion and shock moving through them a few cheered or clapped but for the most part few even appeared to believe his words.
“This decision was made due to the recent damage to New Syrtis command facilities and the Taurian Concordat's illegal invasion, and occupation, of the Pleiades Cluster. In time the High Command will look at returning Capellan March control to New Syrtis†he said, although he didn't believe that would happen in his lifetime. The damage done to New Syrtis was extreme on all levels already there was word of people moving away from the “Hasek†curse. Although Nathaniel was not of the ruling line of his family by birth he felt deeply sorry for Deborah and Kym who would have to fight their worlds corner and hopefully reclaim its place some day. “The Hasek family fully supports the decisions that have been taken and will do all in their power to help with a speedy and seamless transition.
SLDF Terran Guard Line
Victoria Buff Wildlife Preserve, Southern Carolina
Terra, Star League Protectorate
11th February 3092
Colonel David Alsace stood in his command tent with the field radio to his ear “no sir, at this present moment I do not believe attacking the Manei Domini forces is a good idea.†He said as clearly as possible “yes sir, Precentor Azrael has allowed us to repair some of the bridges in exchange we've provided them with food, water and blankets.†He said listening to the Terran Governor's reply “yes sir, it does give us access however it also gives us a dialogue with the man.†He said pausing again “yes I'm quite sure he is a man†he replied answering the question “no sir, I have not met him in person.†He said pausing again “no sir, ComStar was a big organization back then Azrael does appear to be old enough to have been with ComStar before the split but I did not know him.†He said listening to the Terran Governor's reply “yes sir, your predecessor may have known him.†He remained quiet for several moments his anger boiling as he listened to Terra's Political leader “SIR!†He finally snapped “the SLDF has a standard operating procedure for this kind of incident unless you want to move your ass down here and sit in the cockpit of one of the Mechs you want to send onto that island we wait for Special Forces from Sandhurst to arrive! Have a good day.†He snapped slamming down the phone turning around seeing Captain Abigail Hastings standing there silently “I'm sorry you had to hear that, Captain, can I help?â€
“Sir, this is Major Glen Stryker commander of the Seventh Striker Battalion, Seventy-Seventh Special Operations Group from Sandhurst.†She said introducing the other person with her who David had not even seen.
“Major, very good to see you†he said reaching out shaking Stryker's hand
“What's the situation?â€
“Azrael has said he is willing to allow us to restore the bridges and communication lines to the island to facilitate negotiations.†David Alsace explained leaning over his desk pointing at several points on the map. “He appears to be digging in for a longer stay, we have two Wyrm Submersible Fortresses in the bay providing us with full coverage on all sides and the WarShip Bristol passes over every few hours updating us on ground positions.â€
“Bristol that's a test ship?â€
“It's all we have the Bristol or Drones the rest of the fleet is getting ready to engage the Manei Domini WarShip fleet wherever it shows its face. We don't need this happening on a dozen worlds.â€
“No we don't†Stryker agreed “we'll count on the Bristol for fire support then, the last thing we need is the public thinking we used a Drone for support.†Stryker said off hand with civilians on the island and in the area that was the last thing David Alsace had considered the Wyrms could provide support but the Bristol would be able to support them with no chance of counter attack. “What about the First Royal ComGuards?†He asked the front-line unit on Terra had been completely caught out of position protecting Geneva, Unity City and Sandhurst so far it had fallen to elements of the Terran Guard, weekend warriors, to contain the trouble on Hilton Head.
“Arriving in dibs and drabs but those that have arrived have little in the way of cohesion. They won't all be here until maybe the end of the month.â€
“How does that work? This is one planet, my battalion got here in 2 days, I could have my other two Battalions off Mars and the Moon and here faster than the Guards.â€
“Passing just what I've been told.â€
“Great fucking organization going on today†Stryker cursed the SLDF seemed so concerned about the Manei Domini fleet that the ground forces had forgotten exactly what their job was spread out all over the planet they appeared to be scared to come together and act as a unit. “Fine we'll do this my way, we need human Intel on that island flyovers and camera coverage isn't going to cut it.â€
“We'll send a couple of dive squads to each of the Wyrms from there they can use a couple of Mantas to get close and get onto the island there's no way that Azrael can cover it all.†Stryker guessed he had no idea what the enemy force's total strength was as they stayed out of sight during the day and continuously changed their routes during the night. “You seem to have built a bit of a rapport with this guy?†David Alsace nodded “you willing to keep that up?†Again a nod “good because we're putting people on that island planning a strike then kicking their ass off our rock.â€
Clan Infighting
Occupation Zones
Inner Sphere
12th February 3092
In the Clan Occupation Zones despite an agreement between the Clans that the Manei Domini were a grave threat Clans Wolf and Jade Falcon come to a series of blows in the Occupation Zone. Starting with the worlds of Dompaire and Colmar the Jade Falcons find both worlds easy to take with barely defended Trials of Possession on the part of Clan Wolf. They attempt battles on Laurent and Sevren but in both cases they find that they are opposed by Clan Coyote forces the Jade Falcons find they are pushed further back as Clan Coyote forces land on Montmarault and seize the Jade Falcon world closest to Terra as a Coyote holding. In all five battles the Clan Wolf presence is minimal to non existent with Clan Coyote doing virtually all the fighting.
Naval Gathering
Outreach,
Star League Protectorate
17th February 3092
While SLDF forces had spread throughout the Star League Protectorate ready to defend their space and soil at all corners a veritable fleet had gathered in the Outreach system among the vessels were the Wolf's Dragoons fleet, of which the Alexander had been designated as a ship that would travel with the gathered forces, four WarShips from the Federated Suns, Six Clan Nova Cat vessels, one Hell's Horse vessel and five Snow Raven vessels seventeen of the most powerful vessels ever built by man waiting for the order to continue on. In other systems the Lyran vessel LCS Archon's Pride with the Rasalhague Dominion vessel Leviathan waited, while at Dieron two of the Draconis Combine's Kyushu-class Frigates were ready to assist and throughout the Protectorate almost every vessel the SLDF could spare waited for a sighting of the Manei Domini WarShips.
The plan was simple if the Manei Domini were spotted in system adjacent to or inside the Star League Protectorate they were to be monitored by elements of the combined forces until the entire fleet was in position to attack them. If the Manei Domini ground forces accompanying the WarShips went to ground on any planet First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Khan Canin Rosse had been designated as commanders of the ground forces.
During their wait Clan Snow Raven had won a Federated Suns Excalibur-class Pocket WarShip which had recently be refitted with the AR-15 Multi-Purpose Sub-capital Missile Launcher developed by the Federated Suns' NAIS and the SLDF's Thorin University. The Snow Ravens become the first Clan to successfully gain access to the AR-15 which they immediately begin to look into in an effort to understand and replicate the technology.
HPG Burst Transmission
Terra Firma, Capellan March
Federated Suns
20th February 3092
From the Terra Firma system four separate radiation waves had been detected at one of the systems pirate points. Fortunately the system had warning satellites and sensors embedded in rocks throughout the system and they immediately identified one of the vessels as the Rycon, the Columbia-class vessel very familiar to the Federated Suns following attacks at New Avalon and Kathil, the second is identified as the Warden, an AWOL Thera-class Carrier from the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. Two days later two Zechetinu II-class Corvettes enter the system at the same pirate point one is identified as the Scorpion which has been AWOL since the break of the Free Worlds League and is wanted for crimes against humanity.
On the 23rd February the LCS Peter, a Peter-class Scout ship, shadowing an Invader-class JumpShip jumped into the system and began a very slow burn towards the planet. The Peter was a tiny vessel, the smallest WarShip built in the Inner Sphere since the ancient Bug Eye. Although it lacked the sensors of the Bug Eye the vessel's presence added an much needed extra set of eyes to the defenders the Peter looked exactly like a Gazelle-class DropShip which made the hostile WarShips ignore the ship.
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Nice update! I like the new location for the CM capital! And looking forward to the possible naval battle you have planned?
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SLS Invincible (Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser)
Zenith Points, Epsilon Eridani
Star League Protectorate
1st March 3092
Across the bridge Admiral Benjamin White looked at the command centre's main screens then glanced back down at the the communication that had arrived from Terra Firma passed through the planetary HPG from the LCS Peter. The Manei Domini fleet had begun a slow burn from the pirate point towards the Zenith and Nadir points, the LCS Peter had changed course to avoid the incoming WarShip fleet which now numbered eleven vessels including a newly arrived McKenna-class Battleship and a Faragut-class Battleship on top of the other WarShips.
“Prepare for immediate jump to the Terra Firma system. Pass a message to the SLS Helm, SLS Liberty, SLS Freedom and SLS Shining Claw. All ships are to jump into the Zenith and Nadir Points as planned. Send an HPG to Outreach and First Lord Davion to use Point Bravo as an entry. We will herd them back to Point Alpha and give them no option other than to fight.â€
“They could fast charge their drives†his XO suggested
“Not that many ships in such a short amount of time.†White said confidently “pass the word.†He said his XO nodded his agreement before moving off moments later the lights within the command section of the ship significantly dimmed and an alert klaxon sounded throughout the craft warning the crew of an approaching jump.
Several hours later the SLDF vessels each arriving from a different system began to appear within the Terra Firma system blockading the Nadir Point while at the Zenith point five WarShips of Clan Snow Raven appeared. Initially the Manei Domini WarShip fleet continued on towards the Zenith and Nadir Points however with the arrival of additional WarShips bearing the insignia of the AFFS and Clans Nova Cat and Hell's Horses arrived at another pirate point which was closer to the standard jump points than the Manei Domini. Unable to hit the standard points before their enemies the Manei Domini forces turned back towards their initial entry point.
From the command deck of the FSS Destiny First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion spoke to the whole star system. “People of the Terra Firma system there are forces within this system intent on causing you and the people of the Inner Sphere further harm. We have arrived to eliminate these forces we will protect you all.†He announced as the hours passed from several WarShips several DropShips were launched all heading for Terra Firma.
“First Prince, between those ships launch our analysis suggests that there is anything up to three Divisions of ground forces.†The Destiny's CO Admiral Jon Starkwood said informing his liege lord as commander of one of the Federated Suns premier WarShips he had more pull than most.
“I will take our ground forces and those of this task force to Terra Firma and oppose any ground forces. I want you to take your WarShips to join with Admiral White's by that time the Rasalhague and Archon's Pride should have arrived, you are then to eliminate the enemy WarShip fleet completely.â€
“You are not going to Terra Firma without support sire, if the Manei Domini turn their guns on the planet you could be very exposed.â€
“We cannot divide our forces, if we do we may not be able to counter those WarShips.â€
“Still we need to make sure you are not overly exposed.†Starkwood said digging his feet in “the FSS New Avalon, Pillar of Autumn, Barrier Reef and Swift Strike is a significant force to support you on the ground and if necessary delay the incoming enemy forces until we arrive.â€
“I'll see you on the other side Admiral†Victor said saluting Admiral Starkwood returned the salute then the First Prince left the command deck.
Landing Forces
Terra Firma
Star League Protectorate
5th March 3092
Escorted by the WarShips sent by Admiral Starkwood First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Khan Canin Rosse found Terra Firma unguarded by Manei Domini WarShips, DropShips or fighters allowing them free access to the planet. Remaining over their position the Pillar of Autumn, FSS New Avalon, Barrier Reef and Swift Strike prepared themselves provide fire support for the ground forces if required however they also kept an eye on the space above Terra Firma.
Since Victor's force had detached from the other WarShips had engaged the Manei Domini forces. In the opening battles dozens of aerospace fighters and DropShips had been destroyed on both sides as had the FSS James Sandoval and the SLS Helm. On the Manei Domini side a Galley-class Corvette, the Illyria, and a Zechetinu II-class Corvette, the Haptopodar. The two forces had disengaged moving out of weapons range as they did two Lola Block II-class Destroyers and two Essex-class Destroyers arrived at the pirate point reinforcing the Manei Domini forces increasing their WarShip force to thirteen active vessels.
As the ground forces began to make landfall engaging the Manei Domini forces the Rasalhague, Archon's Pride and two Draconis Combine Kyushu-class Frigates arrived moving towards the planet. Immediately on landing the combined ground forces on Terra Firma engaged the Manei Domini who had been rampaging free on the planet intent on causing as much destruction as possible. Victor Steiner-Davion led a combined forces of AFFS and SLDF forces against the Fifty-Second Shadow Division while Khan Canin Rosse commanded a force made up of Clan Nova Cat and Clan Hell's Horses against the Forty-seventh Shadow Division the suspected third Division on the planet was nowhere to be seen. The Manei Domini forces continued to fight on the ground engaging the defenders and the local population with equal venom.
Second Naval Battle of Terra Firma
Allied Formation, Terra Firma
Capellan March, Federated Suns
8th March 3092
Moving closer together the allied forces and Manei Domini engaged for a second time Admiral Starkwood commanding a strike against the Rycon and the ships supporting her while the Snow Ravens targeted the WarShips surrounding the Manei Domini Thera. Over three days the two sides engaged and disengaged from each other the whole time the battle moving closer and closer to Terra Firma.
As the battle continued closer to Terra Firma the two forces engaged for a third time this time the battle culminating in the destruction of the Blake's Sword, a Manei Domini aligned McKenna-class Battleship, and the Snow Raven vessels Blue Quest and Exodus Crusader. As the two opposing forces approached Terra Firma the Leviathan and Archon's Pride joined the allied force for one final battle.
On the ground with aerospace superiority Victor Steiner-Davion and Canin Rosse were able to push the Manei Domini ground forces back time and again forcing the hostile forces into a corner protecting much of the planet's population.
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The first part of this post would likely never ever happen like this in the reality of the game or in the rules so no-one try to explain it. This is fiction and it just had to happen.
Command Deck, Pillar of Autumn (Halcyon-class Cruiser)
Terra Firma, Capellan March
Federated Suns
10th March 3092
“Star Commodore, the Manei Domini are incoming again†Star Commodore Henrick Mitchell's executive officer said the Nova Cat's Swift Strike and Barrier Reef had been destroyed in the Manei Domini's first attacks while the FSS New Avalon had continued to fight alongside the Pillar of Autumn. The Manei Domini forces were down to seven active vessels but the allies had lost much of their firepower also and the Manei Domini remained deadly. “We cannot take much more of this.†He said as an enemy Lola III and an Essex-class Destroyers passed over and above the Pillar of Autumn thumping the Cruiser from both sides. “Sir, we're main engines damaged, we are losing speed and our orbit!†The warrior shouted using a contraction showing the pressure of the situation.
“Take the jump-drive off-line, power down all support systems and expend all munitions!†Mitchell ordered as the ship rocked heavily from the atmospheric friction “we are losing our orbit†he said clearly so all on the command deck could hear. “If any of our ejection pods attempt to leave this vessel they will most likely be destroyed. We have no option, we will land this vessel.†He said seeing the fear on their faces no WarShip was designed to operate in a planet's atmosphere let alone land on a planet's surface. “We can do this†he said confidently “turn our nose away from the planet, have engineering give us all the engine burn that they can and slow our descent.†He ordered.
Slowly, as the two Manei Domini WarShips abandoned their attack moving towards the FSS New Avalon, the Pillar of Autumn turned in space moving its nose away from the surface towards the space above. From the rear of the ship the engines burned their last as the ship entered the surface. For several minutes the ship fought gravity as its engines burned trying to keep the ship out of the atmosphere as it did the ship burned taking damage to all its engineering sections.
“We have lost contact with the Chief Engineer.â€
“Do we still have reaction control systems?â€
“Aff†the crewmen answered looking back at Star Commodore Mitchell.
“Use them now turn this ship onto its back†Mitchell ordered the ship's bow and ventral control thruster slowly fired, designed to be operated in a vacuum the thrusters were slow at changing the ship's orientation slowly turning the falling ship onto its back. “All remaining reaction control systems to stabilization!†Mitchell shouted as the ship passed five hundred metres “aim us for that lake†he ordered. The ship was little more than a falling skyscraper its thrusters the only thing keeping it aloft with no lifting surfaces the craft had no natural lift fortunately there was no nearby built up areas.
Across the command deck systems registered damage, consoles exploded and crewmen shouted warnings. The Pillar of Autumn flew over Terra Firma's lake missing the water completely slamming into the desert sands that laid ahead. The impact was massive as the ship slammed into the sand burrowing deep as it tore through the ground at speed. Most of the crew died on impact as the cruiser dug itself through the sand dunes finally coming to rest roughly two kilometres from the targeted lake. Miraculously the vessel did not explode as it came to a rest the reactor system only a dozen of the crew had survived the landing none able to move on their own. Amazingly the vessel which was one of the smallest Cruisers ever created was also one of the most dense and had survived the landing it would never fly again and the Pillar of Autumn had become a permanent marker for the fighting on Terra Firma.
In orbit the FSS New Avalon hopelessly outnumbered had no option but to fall back from the planet surrendering the space around Terra Firma to the Manei Domini naval forces. Even as the ground forces pressed against the the Manei Domini naval weapons bombarded the surface causing massive destruction.
Third Battle of Terra Firma
Allied Formation, Terra Firma
Capellan March, Federated Suns
11th March 3092
As the Manei Domini forces attempted to evacuate the surface the allied naval forces moved in around them Admiral Starkwood watched from the command deck of the FSS Destiny as their remaining forces continued to close exchanging a massive amount of of weapons fire. The battle arrangement was prepared around the same way as before the Destiny, the Archon's Pride and the SLDF WarShips would target the Rycon while the two Snow Ravens WarShips and the remaining Nova Cat craft would attack the Thera. The Leviathan would close on the planet along with the Alexander and destroy the Manei Domini DropShips and protect the ground forces.
“Ensure the Archon's Pride knows to stay closer to us they are to keep that Black Lion and Venturer off of us.â€
“Sir, the Snow Ravens have launched boarding shuttles towards the Warden, they have also destroyed remaining Lola II.â€
“Very good wish them my best†Starkwood said watching as the Rycon turned its damaged side away from the Destiny opening fire on the Archon's Pride with its naval particle cannons. Along the ship's side the Columbia's Naval Lasers tore into DropShips and fighters that got too close. “Give them our best, forward Gauss rifles.†Starkwood ordered as the ships got closer from the front of the First Prince-class Battleship the massive Gauss rifles that dominated the front of the craft lashed out at the Rycon cutting into the mighty vessel. Fighters from the two vessels engaged in close combat.
“Sir, the Alexander has been destroyed by the the Enlightened Path!†Someone called out “multiple radioactive missile launch against the Leviathan!â€
“I guess we're away to see just how many impacts that ship can take†Starkwood said as his own ship closed on the Rycon the Destiny's Naval Autocannons that lined the vessel's sides fired on the Manei Domini vessel. Massive damage was recorded on the Rycon however the mighty Columbia continued to turn towards the Destiny the vessel's massive alligator shaped head taking blast after blast from the Destiny's guns.
“Multiple armour impact on the Rycon, sir, she's still coming!†The sensor operator called out “nuclear explosions on the Leviathan, there goes the broadside!†The operator called out despite the massive damage done by the nuclear attacks the ship's weapons were still remarkably firing tearing into the Enlightened Path, the ancient Faragut had no chance against the modern Clan vessel and whole swaths off the ship were torn to pieces even as the Leviathan was struck by several more nuclear weapons stuck the massive battleship. “Invincible is moving in to support Leviathan while the Freedom and Shining Claw are moving in on the Rycon†he said listing the Star League vessels while the Nova Cats and Snow Ravens continued to attack the Thera and the two remaining Manei Domini WarShips.
“Main engine flare on the Rycon they intend to ram!†Someone shouted the massive vessel had taken a huge amount of damage but it continued to close on the Destiny despite the massive damage it was taking from the Destiny. The two ships moved together in almost slow motion exploding in a massive fireball destroying both of the massive vessels. Aerospace fighters and DropShips continued to fight in between the WarShips taking with them the Manei Domini Essex and remaining Lola II. The last remaining Manei Domini vessel the Venturer attempted to break through the SLDF vessels however it was rapidly cut to pieces by the LCS Archon's Pride and the SLS Invincible ending the Manei Domini naval forces.
Without available WarShips to carry them the surviving Manei Domini DropShips dived back towards the surface launching suicide runs into the planet's surviving buildings and any ground forces that were in sight. The casualties on the planet extended by nearly ten times what they had been previously fortunately despite the heavy casualties on the ground both Khan Canin Rosse and First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion.
State Declaration
Terra Firma, Capellan March
Federated Suns
18th March 3092
As SLIC and DMI teams continued to sweep Terra Firma for unexploded ordinance and any Manei Domini that had survived aid teams from across the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate were streaming onto the planet to support the people's recovery. First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion declares a State of Emergency on Terra Firma and calls for all support that can be given to the world to be given. Commanding-General Archer Christifori hires the Integrated Combat Support Services Mercenary Command to support recovery efforts on the planet as the SLDF's own internal support is not enough. The ICSS is a pure support command with little combat assets for themselves with only a support company for themselves.
Star League Negotiations
Hilton Head Island, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
24th March 3092
With the Manei Domini's main forces defeated on Terra Firma eyes turned to Terra and Regulus as hot-spots for trouble. Although the fighting on Regulus was out of control with the Principality of Regulus refusing any and all help the situation on Terra was far better. Precentor Azrael had taken the defeat of the Manei Domini forces very well in fact some thought too well. Azrael had allowed the SLDF to repair all links to Hilton Head Island and allowed negotiation teams to go to the island to bring a peaceful end to the hostilities.
“Sir, we're getting a message from Precentor Azrael†one of the techs said
“Put it up on the speakers†Major Glen Stryker ordered he'd remained in command despite Colonel Alsace's higher rank.
“This is Precentor Azrael on Hilton Head Island the Star League Defence Force have failed to meet our demands in the negotiations†he snarled “as a result we have evicted them. Our other guests continue to enjoy our rulership.†He said cutting the frequency.
“Sir, we have movement on bridge four, eight figures walking back from Hilton Head main complex.â€
“Train all cameras, alert all sentries†Stryker ordered. Across the bridge the sentries and the cameras saw the eight figures staggering back across the bridge their uniforms torn. As they reached the half way point a series of shots rang out and moments later all eight fell to the ground in heaps.
“Peace of Blake...†someone within the command deck whispered.
“Can it!†Stryker snapped “we don't need that here not tonight. Send out a retrieval squad full cover clear those bodies.†He ordered looking out at the dead negotiation team from beside the bridge a team of ten Battle Armoured troopers moved out to the dead bodies moments later they were followed by a medical team.
With all attention on the medical team there was a series of explosions from behind the SLDF lines with a Thunderbolt BattleMech taking a series of hits from behind before falling to the ground. Suddenly other bridges reported problems as BattleMech, vehicle and infantry forces streamed over the bridge smashing any SLDF forces that oppose them. Stryker's command post took several hits as his command unit attempts to stall the new force but to no avail within hours dozens of additional units push onto the island.
The SLDF High Command order the SAS and guard survivors to remain at their posts and watch what happens on the island. Although Stryker does not like his orders he is also aware he does not have the firepower to push through the two units that have occupied Hilton Head.
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very nice update to your Timeline looking forward to your updated list of warships and what's left!
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Wicked Really wicked
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very nice update to your Timeline looking forward to your updated list of warships and what's left!
I can send you an emailed copy if you would like that or there will be an update at the end of the year. If you would like a copy PM me with the email you want it sent to.
Carrying on my thanks to Herb for answering my questions on Azrael and Ravana/Lucifer hopefully I got the two close to being right and the scene plays out well.
Mobile Headquarters
Outskirts Nystoll, Terra Firma
Capellan March, Federated Suns
3rd April 3092
Due to the destruction brought upon Terra Firma First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had positioned his command vehicle on the outskirts of the capital city Nystoll. Surrounded by the remains of the First New Avalon Guards RCT and the First Royal Black Watch Regiment. Beyond them were the members of Clans Nova Cat and Hell's Horses which represented all that had survived of those two Clans support units. Further were the reinforcements that had arrived in the system since the end of the battle including the Davion Heavy Guards RCT and the First Tikonov Cossacks RCT. Infantry and medical units from both these units were working across Terra Firma to rescue trapped members of the planet's population who had been caught up in the recent chaos. According to Commanding-General Archer Christifori SLDF reinforcements were en-route to the planet as were the ICSS Mercenary Support Command meanwhile the DMI were on the look out for further Manei Domini forces that could be in hiding on the planet.
Walking past the AFFS/SLDF Honour Guards outside the Mobile HQ Khan Canin Rosse didn't bother to stop to be announced instead walking straight in. “First Prince Davion†Canin said as he approached.
“Khan Rosse, I assume your preparations are going to plan?â€
“Aff, our forces will be ready to leave as soon as I return. Oathmaster Sonja Rosse's WarShip has arrived at the Nadir Point and will make sure my remaining vessels make it back home.†He said the Nova Cats had lost three WarShips during the battle the Swift Strike and Barrier Reef had been lost during the battle while the True Vision had been scuttled following the discovery of cracks in the vessel's KF Core. First Prince Davion had offered to assist the Nova Cats repair the vessel however the Clansmen had refused instead allowing the old ship to die following the battle. Victor had already asked his salvage crews to look over the Congress-class Heavy Frigate once the Nova Cats departed by from all the sensor readings that had been taken of the wreck it looked like the Nova Cats had done a very thorough job of wrecking the craft. Of his other WarShips both the Sandra Rosse and Radstadt were heavily damaged during the fighting and more than half of the two ships small craft and DropShips had been destroyed in the fighting the losses were heavy not crippling to the Nova Cat navy but still heavy for a battle that they did not have to fight, the Manei Domini had been the Inner Sphere's problem but three of the Clans had chosen to answer their threat which impressed Victor Steiner-Davion.
“I understand that Khan McKenna plans to take her vessel with you during your trip back to the periphery?†Victor asked the Snow Ravens had lost three WarShips like the Nova Cats but were leaving with a captured Thera-class Carrier, the Warden, already Sterling McKenna had vowed to change the ships name however what else they planned to do with the craft was unknown. The Outworlds Alliance had always prided itself on a strong aerospace corps since the arrival of the Snow Ravens they also had a strong naval side the captured Thera could be a nice bridge between these two services.
“Aff, hopefully during the journey we can gain access to the AR-15 the Snow Ravens captured before arriving here.†Canin said with a wicked smile “an interesting weapon that proved itself in the battle for this system.â€
“As did many things Khan Rosse†Victor said simply before the Khan nodded his goodbye before half turning stopping looking back at the First Prince.
“Before I go the Hell's Horses commander has asked that I ensure his forces are allowed safe passage back to the Occupation Zone since the destruction of their WarShip.â€
“Already arranged Clan Sea Fox has been asked to arrange for their transport to the Occupation Zones paid for through the Federated Suns. At least that way there can be no offense taken because of SLDF being involved.†He said seeing Canin Rosse's second question “I have also guaranteed them access to the wreck site for as long as they wish it and can guarantee that no salvage will be taken from its hull..â€
“Very generous of you, First Prince.â€
“The least I could do. Safe journey†Victor said bidding him a farewell.
“Until the next time†Canin said leaving the headquarters.
Capital Hall
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
5th April 3092
Bannister Cameron moved slowly from his desk to the coat rack grabbing his thick dark green jacket. Moving towards the door which would take him home he had been reading reports on the fighting on Terra, Terra Firma, Galatea, Regulus and half a dozen other worlds. Across the entire Inner Sphere tension was high, here on Liberty the population were worried but order had remained. Moving from the mansion he headed down the short number of steps to the street and his waiting Slipper LX-class Hovercar.
“Governor!†Someone shouted Bannister turned to see a young man dressed in an all black jumpsuit wave to him “sir!†He shouted again signaling for Bannister to come back up the steps the Governor took several steps back up towards the man. Before Bannister could get up more than a few steps away the hovercar beside him exploded in a fireball killing Bannister's driver and two guards and throwing the governor dozens of feet leaving his broken body against the building.
The figure that had called the Governor back ran to his side checking for signs of life the Governor was injured badly but alive. The shadowy figure shouted for medical assistance quickly his reaction team arrived. On Liberty their assets were small but enough to ensure that Bannister Cameron survived today and that the man, and his family, would have a future. Custos Paul had ordered the small Fidelis to ensure that Liberty's Governor survived and remained a friend of their people on New Earth.
Confrontation
Underground Vault, Hilton Head Island
Terra, Star League Protectorate
10th April 3092
Moving slowly from shadow to shadow the figure dressed in black, with a red cloak over his shoulders, closed on the other older figure. “Precentor Azrael!†The man shouted moving into the light.
“Ravana†Azreal said turning around looking at the other figure the man was larger than him easily over eight feet in height he had a well muscled body under his dark jumpsuit his head partially encased in metal.
“I do not go by that name†the figure said quietly “my name is Lucifer.â€
“One that had been forsaken to us!†Azreal nearly screamed “how can you turn your back on your order for these frails?â€
“The Master is dead! The Word of Blake failed us! We owe his dream and those words nothing!†Lucifer replied shedding his cloak.
“We owe them everything, you would be dead Ravana without our Master! ComStar left you to die on Tukayyid his plan saved us†Azrael said looking over the other man “where are your wings?â€
“I have shed them as I shed the Master's yoke. End this Azrael finish this the right way for our people.â€
“I already have†Azrael admitted “Ravana you cannot stop this in one minute all the missiles the Star League missed on this island will launch this will trigger automated systems on ever continent that were hidden by Our Holy Order from the early days. Terra's own defences will turn on it and all life as humanity knows it will end just as was foreseen by Jerome Blake before the First Succession War, we will bring Terra full circle. You and me, the Master's first children here at the end!†Azrael screamed giving in to his anger and hatred that had been contained during his stay on Terra for so long. Staying to the shadows Azrael had been ordered by the Master to ensure Terra was ready for the Manei Domini's unveiling unfortunately those orders had not prepared them for the Master's passing or the Manei Domini's rampage across known space. Now Azrael interpreted Blake's word his own way.
“This is not our place†Lucifer said “remember me as your brother 'Ravana' if that helps you understand Azrael. Our time has passed we cannot end it for everyone.â€
“You have made your choice, my brother, and I have made mine†Azrael said spreading his arms wide as he did blades extended from both of his forearms splitting through his palms. With a swing of his now sharpened blades Azrael's own cloak fell to the ground in taters. “We will end this like the Master's chosen were taught.â€
“Do not make me kill you†Lucifer said quietly as from his own arms his own set of blades extended. Azrael and Ravana had been born at the same time their bodies formed by the Master's thoughts they were the first Manei Domini, and if necessary they would end this generation, elsewhere their younger siblings, those that survived, would have to chose the order's future.
“I will give you no choice!†Azrael shouted back lunging forward with his bladed arms Lucifer expertly dodged out of the way spinning on the spot swinging one of his arms down Azrael was an intelligence finder he had never been one on the front line and his stance told Lucifer everything he needed. Stepping in on his brother Lucifer cut down tearing from Azrael one of his blades as the metal clashed sparks flew as Azrael backed off.
“End this!†Lucifer screamed desperately
“I intend to!†Azrael replied diving in again this time aiming for Lucifer's head with his remaining blade. Lucifer leaned back at the same time kicking out with one of his legs his modified limbs each held three talons on the end of them as his leg extended these drive deeply into Azrael's chest knocking the wind, and the life from the older man, Lucifer withdrew the talons allowing Azrael to stagger forwards mortally injured during the fight. Lucifer grappled his brother stopping him falling to the cold ground. “This was how it had to end Ravana, I thank you for giving me a rightful death.â€
“You didn't have to do this†Lucifer said looking down as the life drained from Azrael's face.
“I did, and now you must do what you came to do Ravana, and know I forgive you for your choice. In the end we all make the choices that are required of us.†Azrael struggled to say before his passing. Lucifer looked down at his brother for a moment then rose to his feet stepping to the consoles imputing the codes he knew into the control systems. Across the board the lights went from green to red as the missiles buried deep within the complex, that had laid dormant since ComStar and the Word of Blake's passing, deactivated. Every light except two turned to red Lucifer looked at the last two for a moment before imputing his code again, it was the Master's own code that Azrael, Lucifer and Apollyon had all been given to use when they knew was right. When for a second time the two lights remained on Lucifer looked to his fallen brother's corpse.
“We have all made the choices that we were required to.†Lucifer said knowing that Azrael had made his own choices known and changed the sequence so that even the Master could not have stopped what came next. Then two things happened moments after the next firstly an intercontinental ballistic missile launched from under the facility flying high into Terra's atmosphere less than a minute later the second missile primed to fire in its launch tube exploded detonating blowing up its nuclear warhead which in turn detonated every other warhead on the island destroying everything in its path. Lucifer, his troops, Azrael's surviving forces, the hostages and the SLDF forces nearby all ceased to be as nuclear detonations tore Hilton Head from Terra's surface obliterating any trace of the island. In the air the ICBM launched before the destruction of Hilton Head flew true as it crossed through the atmosphere targeting Unity City, the capital of the Star League Protectorate. Fortunately as the Star League had restored the city they had also restored much of the Star League-era's defences naval class lasers buried deep into the ground all around the city lashed out at the missile detonating it in the upper atmosphere far from the population. An Electro-magnetic pulse covered the city knocking out all unprotected electronic devices but for the most part the world had dodged the Manei Domini's final bullet.
Rescue Operations
Galatea, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
14th April 3092
With all eyes on the destruction on Terra Firma and the continued fighting on Regulus it was easy to forget the devastation that had been wrought on Galatea. Rescue workers had been on Galatea since shortly after the initial attack and so far only 200,000 thousand of the worlds population and from mercenary unit support personnel. From the ashes of the world a company of surviving MechWarriors had banded together and formed a new command the Ghosts of the Abyss. These MechWarriors under the command of Driscoll Patterson had already accepted their first contract pro-bon-o to help search the ruins of Galatea for further survivors however Galatea was essentially a dead planet.
Border Skirmish
Brodon, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former Free Worlds League
25th April 3092
Fighting erupts on Brodon as the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth;s First Free Worlds Guards Regiment and some support assets raided the Lyran held world. Defending the planet the Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards Regiment fought the Marik-Stewart forces for every metre. Assisting the First Free Worlds Guards were The Alpha Team Mercenary Lance although only a lance in strength the unit continually led the Isle of Skye forces on chases across the planet often leading the Isle of Skye units into well orchestrated traps. In each engagement involving the elusive command The Alpha Team units would taunt their opponents into mistakes and lead them into trouble when normally the Isle of Skye MechWarriors would have maintained their discipline. Despite these efforts and successes nether side won an overall outright advantage leading to a series of skirmishes.
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Two of the new WarShip classes
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/whirlwind-block-ii-class-destroyer/
(http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/whirlwind-block-ii-class-destroyer/)
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/robinson-iii-class-transport/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/robinson-iii-class-transport/)
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After the fireworks of April a little calm in May
Bounty Hunting
Various Locations
Inner Sphere
13th May 3092
Across the Inner Sphere low intensity fighting continues on a dozen worlds each is attributed to the Manei Domini. On mercenary hiring worlds several small commands hire themselves out as Bounty Hunting units searching for these small units. One such unit the Royal Grays deploy within the former-Free Worlds League near Sterling searching for these raiding commands. The Royal Grays are a company in strength and claim that each of their members can trace their lineage to noble families of the Inner Sphere. Normally the unit took garrison contracts playing on their royal links however with the Manei Domini threat the unit had seen an opportunity on Sterling.
Arriving on the planet these royal rogues instantly find conflict with the raiders however with the assistance of the local forces they are able to secure a beachhead and their position on the planet. This type of battles happens on a dozen different worlds with the Manei Domini aligned forces pushed back in most cases only on a couple of worlds are they successful and when they are they disappear without a trace. On the planet of Keid an MIT-23 with the same markings as that seen on Fletcher in 3081 is seen moving through some civilian areas. When approached by an SLDF security lance the MIT is defended by four BattleMechs each equipped with the Void Signature System, a technology reportedly still under development testing by the SLDF. The MIT-23 and its escorting four Mechs disappear without a trace.
Octavian, Draconis Combine Factory Ship
Shimoda, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
18th May 3092
Shimoda was a dead world it had been abandoned by the Draconis Combine during the latter stages of the Second Succession War. The world had not been abandoned due to natural disaster or external attack but Draconis Combine internal policy. The system had become a dumping ground during the early succession wars for space going vessels that were too badly damaged to be used further. Initially the system had become home to broken JumpShips however at the end of the Second Succession War it had become home to four damaged but operational Narukami-class Destroyers. The Draconis Combine economy at the time had not been able to finance the repairs the ships' needed and they had been stripped of much of their remaining operational equipment instead of making repairs. To keep the ships hidden the system had been evacuated of all civilians and travel through the system had been restricted.
Today the Draconis Combine was in a different place and the Narukamis were at least worth investigation. As there had been restricted access to the system for so long most people couldn't even remember Shimoda's name, the DCMS however remembered the system well, because the system had been avoided for so long it went nearly completely unnoticed as two one thousand-two hundred metre long vessels jumped into the system. “Full sensor scan†the ship's commander Director Aldrich Sigars ordered from the ship's command centre.
“Sir, several major debris encounters and four intact signatures. No active sensor contacts or power signatures we can contact.â€
“Coordinate with Phaeton sensor control to keep an eye on all movements.â€
“Yes, sirâ€
“Deploy all DropShips and begin burn in system, communications have Phaeton do the same.†He ordered across the ship DropShips launched from the vessel while the same happened on the other vessel. The two ships slowly began to move from the jump points accelerating to one gravity, the vessel's maximum speed, unlike the Omi Kurita-class hulls the ships had been built on the Octavian's and Phaeton's military capabilities had been cut back to virtually nothing instead making room for additional construction and storage spaces. The two ships that had once been known as the Shiro Kurita and the Vincent Kurita they had disappeared from Midway system in 3083 when on trials very few people had realized that the ships had been removed from the system intentionally by ISF agents and DEST Commandos and moved to a hidden system in the Draconis Combine.
Today the Octavian and Phaeton had lost their 'Kurita' names and worked behind the scenes they would begin work on vessels abandoned by the Draconis Combine with hopes of returning these vessels to the service of the Dragon. Now instead of taking part in individual battles the two ships, now serving as Mobile Factories, influenced all of the Draconis Combine.
Declaration of Freedom
Regulus, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
24th May 3092
After months of fighting on Regulus the world is declared free from Manei Domini influences by Prince Titus Cameron-Jones. During the battle the First Cameron-Jones House Guard and the Ninth Regulan Hussar Regiments were completely gutted. Titus announces that he plans to rebuild the House Guard and that the survivors of the Ninth Regulan Hussars will become the core of a newly formed Second Cameron-Jones House Guard. During the announcement Titus is shadowed by a dark skinned female with long blonde hair media sources believe it to be Saadia Howser a Regulus born MechWarrior who had fought with Lester during the battle for the planet.
Blue Dancer, Star Lord-class JumpShip
Nadir Point, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
29th May 3092
Months after escaping the riots on Galatea the JumpShips carrying the First McCarron's Armoured Cavalry arrive at the Nadir Point of the New Avalon system. Having mainly used uninhabited systems and avoided contact with inhabited planets the McCarrons had been thought lost during the chaos caused by the Manei Domini. After being cleared by AFFS naval forces the McCarrons ground forces and their dependents are allowed to travel to the surface of New Avalon where Colonel Elizabeth McCarron hoped to see her cousin Faith Steiner and seek her assistance in securing a contract with the Federated Suns.
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Time for another bonus to the timeline
From James Tanaga creator of the Fire Mandrill story in the Timeline
A Lyran Intelligence Report on the Rim Collection I hope you enjoy!
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/lcaf-intelligence-report-the-rim-collectionclan-fire-mandrill/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/lcaf-intelligence-report-the-rim-collectionclan-fire-mandrill/)
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Downtown
Wiedergeburt, New Earth,
Star League Protectorate
6th June 3092
A series of terrorist car bombs rock the capital of New Earth causing hundreds of deaths within the population. As the hospitals become overwhelmed by the numbers of casualties the local SLDF garrison mobilize to assist however the unit is designed for combat casualties not massive civilian ones. From the Mopelia Island a small convoy of Fidelis support units move into the city covertly assisting the SLDF units.
The Star League Intelligence Command unit that had been assigned to watch the Fidelis on the planet search for the culprit of the bombings however they do not have to look far only hours after the last bombing a message is broadcast over the Interstellar News Network channel which is sent to all the planets of the Star League Protectorate and beyond. The message consists of six words “Peace of Blake be with you†this simple message immediately told everyone in the Inner Sphere that those supporting the Word of Blake and Manei Domini had not gone away.
Jade Falcon Training Ground
South Dargoth, Sudeten
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
13th June 3092
Laying in wait the crew of the Bolla Stealth Tank watched as the Hellbringer OmniMech moved in towards the training ground. Beside it were several other heavy Jade Falcon OmniMechs all marching confidently no suspecting trouble. Why would they Sudeten was the capital of the Jade Falcon's Occupation Zone.
“One to all units target is in sight. Link communication and targeting systems on my mark and fire when read†the Bolla's commander said. Hidden around the training ground this was intended on being a surgical strike, the Master may be dead, the Manei Domini may be gone but they would succeed in their mission. “Blake's will be done, MARK!†He ordered the Bolla's stealth systems immediately shut down as did the other five of their level two and the air was filled with weapons fire. From One's weapon systems eighteen long range missiles flew from the turret mounted racks. The same came from Bolla Two and Bolla Three. Four had a pair of autocannons while Five and Six both carried Light Gauss Rifles in their turrets. The Bolla Stealth Tank was the pinnacle of tanks design with its stealth systems allowing it to get far closer than any other units could and its C3i Computers linking their communication and targeting systems. As a result of this coordination the Hellbringer took the brunt of the weapons fire, missiles, autocannons and gauss fire struck the sixty-five ton machine from several different angles knocking the Mech down onto its back. “Hit him again, kill that Mech!†One's commander ordered from the racks another eighteen missiles flew towards the downed OmniMech while the same came from tanks Two and Three the other three units turned their attention on the Hellbringer's escort concentrating on a seventy ton Summoner.
Suddenly from the downed Hellbringer there was a massive explosion as the Mech's ammunition and engine containment systems exploded knocking the other Mechs away from the downed Mech. “Mission accomplished.†One's commander said triumphantly “Re-engage stealth systems all units disengage!†He ordered just as the Bolla shook heavily “what was that?â€
“ECM system destroyed, stealth systems not operational!†One crewmen reported as the vehicle was hit again. “We have another Star of Mechs entering the battlefield all match the Hellbringer's profile but they look different!â€
“Forget them! Take us forward straight at Uvin Buhallin's escort we will eliminate his bodyguard and ensure none are in a position to replace him!†The commander ordered the others exchanged a glance but did not complain or disagree as the Bolla accelerated forward the other tanks did the same as each found they were engaged by the newly incoming Star of Clan Mechs. One of the Light Gauss Rifle armed tanks exploded fire under heavy particle cannon fire then Four with their autocannons. Ignoring these losses One continued forward their missile launchers now spitting out short range missiles as they closed, Two less than one hundred metres away exploded next as three gauss rifles struck the Mech from different directions. Three and Six followed next as quickly as the others the Bolla's armour nowhere near enough to resist the fire from several heavy Clan designs, the tanks all together might have a chance in attacking one of the OmniMechs but apart they were being cut apart piecemeal. As One continued forward spouting weapons fire at the Jade Falcons they missed the jump of a Turkina Assault OmniMech as they fought on, as the Mech came back down it landed on top of the tank, the right hand foot of the massive ninety-five ton OmniMech crushed the front of the Bolla while the left foot went straight through the turret and main compartment completely flattening the crew inside.
Unfortunately for the Jade Falcons the damage had been done Uvin Buhallin their Khan of less than a year was dead. With the saKhan off planet at the time a power vacuum consumes the Jade Falcon leadership unsure of who to strike back at. As word passes of the Jade Falcon's sudden weakness the Hell's Horses strike at an under defended region of their OZ taking Trell, Dref, Malibu and Butler from the Jade Falcons in rapid Trials of Possession while the Lyran Commonwealth launch raids on Machida and Zongshan knocking the Jade Falcon garrisons off balance allowing the Lyrans to maintain a beachhead on both worlds.
Throne Room, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th June 3092
Entering the throne room on New Avalon First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion marched the length of the room wearing his uniform of the First Prince of the Federated Suns walking past the ranks of guests who had been called to witness this event. Behind him a guard each from the First Royal Davion Guards RCT and the First Royal Black Watch Regiment took their places officially he was still the First Lord of the Star League despite his miss givings. Standing beside the throne was his wife Danai Centrella-Davion looking beautiful in a red and gold dress he was happy to see her beyond words however what made him proud was who was sat on the throne. Stopping short of the steps leading up to the throne “Regent Davion†he said loudly so all could hear “may I have my throne back?†Sitting on the throne dressed in her AFFS uniform his daughter Jaylen Davion smiled she'd coloured her hair a dark red since he had last seen her and Victor had to admit it suited her more than the brown she was born with.
“I'm not sure†she said smiling wickedly “it is quite comfortable.†The twenty-five year old whispered giggling like a school girl.
“Please†Victor whispered back so only Jaylen and Danai could hear to her credit his wife had successfully maintained a straight face during this interplay between Victor and his daughter. Jaylen slowly raised from the throne looking past her father to the crowd of guests.
“I yield this throne to you, sire†she said officially so all could hear “long may you rule, First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion.†Around the room the guests clapped and cheered as Victor retook his position. Jaylen took several steps down away from the throne.
“Stand to Captain Jaylen Davion†Victor said over the crowd, his daughter turned back to face him as the crowd quietened. “As of this date you are promoted to the rank of Major within the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns and will take on all responsibilities of this role.†He said withdrawing the new rank insignia from his pocket pinning it to her uniform as the crowd celebrated again “congratulations.â€
Twentieth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VI
Star League Protectorate
20th June 3092
Despite the damage caused by the Manei Domini and by the recent riots on Solaris IV the Star League Stadium is reopened for business. To mark this event the Twentieth Star League Games takes place opening the Solaris Gaming Season with Solaris local, and favourite, Kensington Smith piloting his modified Succession Wars vintage Marauder 4X. Soon after the opening of the Star League Stadium Steiner's Colosseum and Davion's Boreal Reach both reopen beginning the stadium properly with the other Stadiums opening over the course of 3092 as life returns to normal on Solaris, the Games continue and the money continues to roll.
Trial of Possession
Memphis, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
26th June 3092
Elson West felt old he had been a Star Colonel in command of the 449th Assault Cluster for nearly thirteen years. The year before he had won the right within the Nova Cats to lead the attack on the Sea Fox Clan's enclave on Memphis in a battle that had led to the Nova Cats annexing the whole planet from the Filtvelt Coalition it had been a glorious battle especially after the Nova Cat victory when the Sea Fox Battle Armour factory had been found under the Sea Fox small arms facility. The Sea Fox Clan had evacuated their survivors quickly from the planet seeding it, and their factory, to Clan Nova Cat.
Today however the Sea Fox had returned intent on recapturing the factory, Star Colonel Onyx Kalasa of the Sea Fox's Eleventh Strike Cluster had begun “negotiating†with the Nova Cats just like the merchant's his Clan was famous for. He had stated that the Nova Cats and Sea Fox were long term allies and should agree to a price that would benefit them both Elson West had smiled when the Sea Fox Star Colonel had spoken those words his immediate reaction had been to bid his full three trinaries of assault and heavy units. Onyx Kalasa's units of the Strike Cluster were of a medium and light range designed for rapid reaction in the defence of Sea Fox holdings 'shame you were missing last year' Elson thought with a snort looking over the battlefield. The Sea Fox commander had cut his bid down to three trinaries while Elson had cut his own to two Trinaries, one of OmniMechs the other of Elementals and of the Nova Cat's heavier Thunderbird Battle Armour. Now they stood opposite each other on the battlefield. “I Star Colonel Elson West defend this facility for Clan Nova Cat.â€
“And I Onyx Kalasa of Clan Sea Fox will fight for these holdings.â€
“May no other enterâ€
“Seyla†they both said. Elson switched frequency immediately onto his unit's dedicated frequency “Battle Armour mount up. OmniMechs just as we planned†he called out the Battle Armoured Elementals, Elson included launched into the air grabbing onto the unit's OmniMechs. As they did the war machines moved out splitting into two groups the first was comprised of ten Heavy OmniMechs and carried the unit's Elemental force, split off to the right of the Sea Fox unit while the second which held five Assault designs and a star of Thunderbird suits moved straight for the centre of the Sea Fox formation they would be.
As the two Clan forces moved to engage the Thunderbirds detached from the assault Mechs forming in their points behind the assault Mechs. These units alone would not be much of a hindrance for the the Sea Fox units but it did stop their lighter machines rushing in behind the Nova Cats assault Mechs. As both sides were restricted by the Clan's dueling law of Zellbrigen the assault Mechs held their ground challenging Mech after Mech supported by the Thunderbirds.
Listening to the radio Elson heard his warriors calling out challenges, claiming victory as they destroyed enemy Mechs and dying as the battle began to take its toll on the Nova Cat machines. His own force moved slowly into a position flanking Elson waited and watched his suit's sensor images as the Sea Foxes moved into the right position, then it happened most likely an eager warrior on the Sea Fox side, joined their firepower with one of the others breaking Clan dueling laws. “NOW!†He called out the Nova Cat Heavy designs charged forward with their Elemental passengers cutting in their weapons as soon as they entered the correct range joining their firepower as they closed in. Elson waited until the right moment before launching off of the OmniMech he was riding on-board behind him his point followed moments later crashing down on a fifty-five ton Stormcrow. Already damaged in battle the five Battle Armour suits landed all over the Mech's torso and began to tear into the medium design's armour.
Beside the Stormcrow a Nova Cat Ebon Jaguar tore a part a Sea Fox Incubus II light OmniMech recently developed by Clan Hell's Horses. Elson continued to tear into the Stormcrow as one of his point-mates was thrown clear from the OmniMech as the MechWarrior triggered the Mech's torso missile launchers. Elson blasted into the Stormcrow's side breaching the armour seeing the gap in the armour he leaned back triggering his suit's jump jets clearing the Stormcrow for a moment before triggering his back back's short range missiles smashing away armour. Landing back on the Stormcrow's shoulder he tore back into the Mech's armour again. On the other side of the Mech his remaining three point-mates continued to attack the Stormcrow. On the ground the Elemental who had been knocked clear from the OmniMech was getting back up amazingly the trooper was still able to squeeze off two short range missiles from his suit which slammed into the back of the Stormcrow penetrating the armour inside the Mech the missile's exploded trashing the Stormcrow's gyroscope. As the Mech began to fall Elson and the others of his point began to jump clear. Looking into the sky Elson saw a group of fire trails falling through the air above them being carried by the flames were DropShips. Switching communication circuits Elson shouted angrily into the communication circuit “Star Colonel Kalasa what is the meaning of this interruption!? You violate our laws our culture!â€
“Star Colonel Elson West these ships are not ours, they are not of Clan Sea Fox†Kalasa said defensively. Elson listened to the Sea Fox warrior and despite the breaks in the communications he believed the man.
“Then Onyx Kalasa, you will join us in eliminating them?†He said reaching out to the other Clansmen “we will teach them the mistake of interfering in our Trials?â€
“Aff, Elson West, Clan Sea Fox will fight alongside you and we will finish this another day.â€
“Agreed, all Clan forces turn on the intruders and eliminate them!†Elson West ordered speaking to all of the Nova Cat and Sea Fox forces every single Mech involved in the trial broke off from their targets forming up together the previous battle forgotten. From either side Mechs, Elementals and vehicles moved from the side-lines joining the battle these warriors who had been forced to sit out of battle due to the bidding process now released due to the interruption.
Even as the DropShips came into their landings the joint clan force charged the landing zones opening fire on the DropShips and the units they were dropping. Riding on board a Nova Cat Huntsman OmniMech Elson could see markings on the side of one of the dropping ships the insignia of the Second Filtvelt Guardians Regiment of the Filtvelt Coalition. Even as weapons fire flew out at one of the DropShips Elson opened a communication channel to everyone.
“This is Star Colonel Elson West to the Second Filtvelt Guardians you are violating Clan Nova Cat territory and our Trial of Possession with Clan Sea Fox. I will give you this offer once. Leave this system and you will not lose more.†He said as he saw one of the DropShip's lose two of its engines and begin to fall faster towards the ground. Everything appeared to move in slow motion as the DropShip made an uncontrolled landing smashing into the ground crumpling on impact suffering from several internal explosions unfortunate Clan units in the immediate area were destroyed as the vessel blew into an expanding ball of flame. Anyone on-board the ship or on the ground near its crash would likely be dead.
In the air over the Clan forces the remaining DropShips began turning away from the battle aborting their landings as the Clan forces turned their guns on them as well. “All Clan forces cease fire†Elson called out seeing the DropShips retreat and the destruction caused by the vessel that had crashed “Nova Cat forces Rally Point Alpha, Sea Fox forces Rally Point Bravo†he said transmitting coordinates to both sides the two points were just outside effective weapons range and would give both forces times to recover. “Star Colonel Kalasa, when you are ready we can begin another Trial of Possession if you still wish control over the facility?â€
“Star Colonel Elson West†an unfamiliar voice replied “this is Star Captain Emily Milne, Star Colonel Kalasa is dead he died when the DropShip fell.†Elson winced at the news Kalasa had been honourable even for a warrior with merchant leanings “our forces were on the verge of defeat to yours before the trial. I request Hegira for the remains of my command.â€
“Your Cluster fought well Star Captain I believe that you would make worthy additions to Clan Nova Cat's Touman. However today is not a day for such thoughts your people did very well Emily Milne I grant Hegira, all Nova Cats disengage targeting systems, Clan Sea Fox may leave in peace.†He ordered
“It is nice to see that we can still deal honourably Star Colonel†Emily Milne pointed out. Relations had never been so strained as they were now between the two Clans since the revelation that Clan Sea Fox had sold the Clan technology that had equipped the Taurian's Omega Six and the Nova Cats taking of Memphis.
“Aff†Elson West said agreeing with her he'd known many Sea Foxes in his time as a Nova Cat Warrior personally he had little problems with them. The deals with the Taurians had put a black mark on them but Elson wondered if the Nova Cat Khan had gone too far in alienating them from their longest Clan ally. Rumour was it the decision had come from a vision, but others believed it had been to distract the Nova Cats from another issue, for now however the Nova Cats had another problem Filtvelt's interference could not go unanswered.
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Border Conflict
Brodon, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
2nd July 3092
Fighting erupts on the Isle of Skye occupied world of Brodon as the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth launch a raid in force. Supporting the Marik-Stewart forces are Colonel John R. Wrangler's Thunder Road Mercenary command a Battalion sized Mech unit with some infantry support the unit is especially useful for the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth forces as the Thunder Road come with their own Overlord-class DropShip making the unit's travel a lot easier than other commands. Also involved are The Alpha Team who have continued to cause trouble on the world for the Isle of Skye defenders.
Orbital Bombardment
Kyeinnisan, Sea Fox Territory
Former Free Worlds League
10th July 3092
Following unconfirmed reports of remaining Manei Domini forces on Kyeinnisan sheltering with Clan Sea Fox the Principality of Regulus launches a full attack on the planet with the RS Clipperton, RS Gibson, RS Newcastle and RS Norfolk four Regulus-class Frigates. In orbit over the planet they find the Blood Horse, a modified Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, the Perilous Vision, a Carrack-class Transport, and the Territorial, a Hakaze-class Escort Destroyer the four Frigates immediately launched an attack on the Sea Fox WarShips almost immediately obliterating the Perilous Vision with naval autocannons, lasers and missiles. As the Blood Horse turned its broadside mounted capital particle cannons tore through space destroying the Newcastle and then the Gibson. At the same time the Territorial moved into a flank position to engage the Principality vessels however the remaining former-Free Worlds League forces were more interested in the Blood Horse engaging the vessel with nuclear weapons obliterating the Sea Fox vessel. With their opposition eliminated between them and the planet gone the remaining two Regulan WarShips moved into orbit over Kyeinnisan and began an orbital bombardment with their mass drivers and nuclear equipped capital missiles. Their first missiles land on the Sea Fox Colony wiping out the Sea Fox traders, colonists and the Fifty-first Strike Cluster.
When the Territorial attempts to return to engage the two remaining Regulus-class Frigates the Sea Fox WarShip is engaged by six Regulan assault DropShips which keep the Escort Destroyer out of effective engagement range with the WarShips. The Regulans continue their bombardment of the surface of the planet for nearly sixteen hours completely irradiating the planet's surface in an effort to wipe out any perceived Manei Domini influences. They then retreat from the system fending off continued attempts by the Territorial to engage and destroy the Regulan forces. The Hakaze-class Escort Destroyer returns to Kyeinnisan to search for survivors however the world is all but dead with very little remaining standing on the surface and the ship is forced to abandon the system.
In response to this brutal attack the Principality of Regulus is ejected from the Star League Council by the other members of the reformed Star League Defence Force. Within Clan Sea Fox the Territorial Khanate is crippled by the losses sustained on Kyeinnisan ripe for absorption on Twycross the other Khanates begin Trials against each other to see who has the right to fight to absorb the fallen Khanate.
Castle Brian N001
Tilman River, Northwind
Star League Protectorate
18th July 3092
“Colonel Cochrane, this facility has been left to ruin since the Usuper's time! None of the Clans have enough money or interest to rebuild it.†Alexander McLeod of Clan McLeod said Colonel James Cochrane had butted heads with him for more than fifty years during his command of the Second Kearny Highlanders. Now this year he was ready to retired but he had one final desire.
“I'm nae talkin aboot Northwind's Clans restoring this facility! So stop talking about your own pocket†James said turning on Alexander McLeod. “I believe it is the Highlanders duty to protect the people of this planet. Our studies of this facility is that it goes deep into the mountain and could protect half a million people. Given modern construction capabilities we could double or treble that.â€
“And how would we fund it?†Alexander demanded
“The Regiments would fund it, how we always have†Cochrane stated defiantly.
“What about the Military Academy? The Manei Domini all but destroyed it, what will we do about new recruits?†Colonel Jeremiah Rose asked his Northwind Renegades Regiment were easily one of the strongest of the Northwind commands.
“We have the Northwind Training Battalion.†Cochrane pointed out “I learned how to pilot a Mech and how to command troops in battle in the field.â€
“Why risk losses without a proper education?†Rose asked he'd learned how to fight a BattleMech on Terra as part of the ComGuard and often was at odds with the other Highlanders.
“Changing times Rose, you know it and so dee I. Northwind itself was attacked by the Manei Domini, I don't expect those around us to try that again but can we afford it?†Cochrane asked glancing between the assembled Highlanders.
“No we canna†Colonel Michael McPherson commander of the First Ghurkha Special Forces Battalion said recently he'd been pushing for a second Ghurkha force to be raised but the attack on Northwind had turned eyes towards defence. Facility N001 was an extreme option but it was hardly a logical target for an enemy force to anyone beyond Northwind it had been abandoned for hundreds of years. With the right logistical support the Highlanders had the capabilities to rebuild the facility and turn it into a command facility and bunker superior to any in the Inner Sphere. With its location deep in the mountain side it would be impervious to orbital and nuclear strikes the only way it had been destroyed was from internal betrayal by members of Amaris Dragoons forces that had been stationed on the world. Now the Highlanders had a place in the reborn Star League Protectorate but they had also been able to maintain their independent mercenary routes giving the world extra income. Cochrane's plan was to use that to rebuild the facility.
“So what would you suggest we do Colonel?†One of the Clan elders asked
“Firstly I'd assign the Northwind Hussars to this area for security, they've still not recovered from the loss of Jaffery, I mean no offence to Lt Colonel Redpath's efforts.†He said glancing over at the red haired woman.
“None taken, our rebuilding is on track but unit cohesion is suffering.†She admitted
“Second, direct the construction crews we have repairing our maglev lines to extend their work along the old network lines.â€
“That alone will cost the rest of the years budget.†McLeod protested
“A cost we can afford from the reserves.†Cochrane pointed out.
“Information you should nae have access to COLONEL.†McLeod said emphasizing Cochrane's position James' family had never been influential enough to have a seat on the Clan Council but over his years he'd found ways of influencing them his friendship with the Stenn family who maintained their control of the First Kearny Highlanders had helped no-end.
“I am a loyal son of Northwind an' I use what I have at my finger tips.†Cochrane said defiantly bringing a snort of laughter from Colonel Rose glancing at the younger man Cochrane knew it was a laugh of support from the Renegade's commander who had himself had plenty run ins with the Clan Council.
“The Regiments will support this effort with the moneys we bring in from contracts.â€
“Blood money†McLeod muttered bringing yet more angry glances from the Mercenary brigades commanders.
“I personally will put my own accounts on the line and personally buy the initial digging equipment needed to start this project†Cochrane said putting his own standing on the line. “And to ensure that none of this can be traced here I will buy it to build my retirement home.â€
“Retirement?†Rose asked Cochrane was the eldest of the Northwind commanders.
“It's time, I said before I went to Oriente that it would be my last command in the field representing Northwind. Katee McLeod has done damned well as my XO it's time she got a chance to prove herself in command. That makes you Rose our senior commander, although I expect the Regiments to continue to represent themselves you're going to have to stand up for them with the Council.†He said within the Regiments more often than not the oldest and most experienced commander in the field represented the Regiments with the Clan Elders on Northwind. Cochrane had for a long time served in that position alongside Colonel Stenn. Now it was time in Cochrane's eyes for complete change with the Regiments Colonel McPherson was older and more experienced as a Highlander Officer than Rose but the younger man's Renegades were bigger and less steeped in secrecy than the Ghurkhas. “I will help coordinate efforts here, I'm sure it will keep me as busy as the Second Kearny would have, even if I will miss the field.â€
“You're going to have to do me a favour and watch over things, the Renegades have accepted a contract with the Federated Suns as of this morning†Rose said to Cochrane “the recent troubles in Filtvelt have some of the Outback's Dukes worrying First Prince Davion thinks a Highlander presence might calm them down a bit.â€
“Cadre and patrol duty is hardly the Renegades usual contract, I didn't expect you to accept that one.†Cochrane admitted he'd heard of the contract talks but had expected Rose to walk out of them.
“Good money, the troops could do with some downtime and there's a chance of some Clan play with the Nova Cats if things go really wrong†he pointed out.
“When not here I'll keep an eye on things don't worry, the Council won't be stopping this, we need this Fort rebuilt. It's time the Highlanders made their mark on Northwind, we call this world home but other than recruiting and stopping by here we rarely actually invest in the place. I want to change that.â€
“The Academy was a good start...†Rose pointed out, it had been built with Regiment money.
“Good starts are not enough. The Academy will be rebuilt Rose, I can guarantee it will be by us or by the Star League Defence Force, they need it rebuilt as much as we do. But this fort to anyone beyond Northwind, and probably its people to, it is an archaic structure forgotten to history. To us it could be a monument to the Highlanders something that could stand for centuries to come.†Cochrane said looking over the mountain face in places the old structure underneath could be seen.
“All misty eyed about some rocks, I'd better never live to be your age†Rose joked bringing a wide grin on Cochrane's wrinkled face. “I'll make sure the Regiments are well cared for, if you look after our legacy?†He said Cochrane nodded extending his hand which Rose met shaking it.
Reformation
Arcturus, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd July 3092
The Lyran Commonwealth reform the First, Second and Third Arcturan Guards Regiments to honour the Steiner family remaining on Arcturus. One of the three Regiments is to be permanently based off Arcturus along with one of the Royal Guard Regiments. Unlike other recently formed Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces units these units are purely Mech units and are not formed as Regimental Combat Teams. None of the units have been on the active rolls since the end of the Star League-era and the beginning of the Succession Wars where both were destroyed.
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:D Yay an update! Looking forward to seeing how good the SLIC on finding the MD. Also to see what, if anything happens to the Regulans when Clan Sea Fox gets its house in order and its nice to see the Northwind Highlanders reinvesting in their homeworld! And of course the positive events for the LC and FS! ;D looking to see what kind of wrench you will have for your stories!
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:D Yay an update! Looking forward to seeing how good the SLIC on finding the MD. Also to see what, if anything happens to the Regulans when Clan Sea Fox gets its house in order and its nice to see the Northwind Highlanders reinvesting in their homeworld! And of course the positive events for the LC and FS! ;D looking to see what kind of wrench you will have for your stories!
Time to throw a wrench.
The credit for the Fire Mandrill story in this month belongs to James Tanaga who has done very well with it.
A little inspiration goes a long way
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/lcaf-intelligence-report-the-rim-collectionclan-fire-mandrill/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/lcaf-intelligence-report-the-rim-collectionclan-fire-mandrill/)
Cassandra, Faraday-Tanaga Primary Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
2nd August 3092
Jerold Danforth face scrunched in concentration, his body soaked in sweat, as he continued his daily exercise regimen in the gym. Around him were members of all castes, though mostly from the Technician and Warrior castes. At the moment, Star Captain Natasha, freshly promoted after her successful Trial of Position, was spotting him.
As he soon came upon the end of his rep, the voice of the new star captain broke his concentration. “Kindraa Leader, will we be heading to war soon?†Her question caused him to pause, looking up at her, he merely looked at her upside-down face inquisitively, causing her to blush and continue. “There was talk among my sibko you will be leading us into war against the Spirits.â€
So that is what this is about, he thought to himself as he continued on with his rep. Still it needed to be answered. “The Stone Spirits are raiding planets, stripping them of people and any technology they find. So far, they have avoided the Rim Collection and most of our prospective members. But with our…agreement…with the Collection, conflict with one another is unavoidable. Besides, they caused Cassandra’s death.†He shrugged the last as he put the weight bar back on the stand with Natasha’s help.
“Good,†was the younger woman’s response, one he fully approved of, for it showed the younger woman had a warrior’s spirit. Silently they switched out the weight and both switched places. Just as Natasha lay down and was about to begin her rep, the speaker of the room’s comm unit went on.
“Kindraa Leader Jerold Danforth. Emergency HPG contact from Gillfillan’s Gold demanding immediate response from you,†rang out a female voice through the speaker, eliciting a raised eyebrow from him as he looked down at the shocked look of the star captain.
What in Kerensky’s name, he thought, as he turned and walked to the comm unit on the wall. Pressing a button, the black screen flashed on, revealing the form of the female technician currently monitoring the kindraa’s HPG. Without waiting for a response, he spoke to her. “Send it through to this terminal.â€
Suddenly the screen changed from the middle aged woman to Star Colonel Lysa Djerassi. “Star Colonel,†he croaked out, for no love was lost between the two. He could stand warriors of different philosophies, even the Rim Collection’s Freebirths. No. What he couldn’t stand for, though, was this woman’s stubborn refusal to commit seppuku, as Clan tradition demanded of her due to her being paralyzed and wheelchair bound, citing Cassandra’s orders. Still, so long as she stayed out of his way and continued to work for the kindraa, he could at least ignore her generally. “What demanded the emergency HPG connection, legless monkey?†Around him, the gym quieted down, looking on with interest.
Interesting, he thought, for he caught the female warden warrior visible keep from answering his insult. Something must have happened, he thought and was answered by her a few seconds ago once the woman quelled her anger. “Just watch this,†she snarled at him.
Her image was replaced with what appeared to be video taken from a security camera, showing a two-wheeled vehicle come alongside an outside cafeteria of some sort and what appeared to be several people sitting at tables, eating. The table nearest to the vehicle caught his attention, though, for it sat what appeared to be two men and a woman in Faraday-Tanaga fatigues and trench coats, another man wearing a Rim Lancers uniform and finally a civilian suited man. Suddenly, Jerold’s heart plummeted as he connected who these five were just as he watched the driver yell out “Free Collection†and open fire on the them just as Theodore Albiev jumped up and pushed the table to cover the other four. After a few seconds of firing at them, the gunmen turned and fired off-screen at someone who fired back before himself falling to the ground, dead. Lysa Djerassi blinked back onto the screen shortly after wards.
“When was this? And were the others killed, Star Colonel,†he asked her as he shook with anger, balling his fists.
“Neg, though Theodore Albiev and President Mayfield are unlikely to survive. Both are in surgery at the present moment at a local hospital, along with Able. Jacob Faraday, though wounded, is being treated here in our compound. This all happened three hours ago,†was the woman’s succinct reply.
For nearly a minute, he breathed in deeply, allowing himself time to gather his thoughts. “Send me updates as soon as you get them Djerassi.â€
“Aff.â€
As soon as he was disconnected with her, he contacted the female technician from earlier. “Alert all our units to be on their guard for possible attacks,†he ordered her. “Specifically guerrilla-style attacks from civilians. They may defend themselves, but are strictly ordered not to take any offensive actions at this time.â€
“Aff, Kindraa Leader.â€
Shutting down the screen, he noticed just how quiet the room had become. Turning around, he saw all the occupants looking at him. “None of you are to speak of what you just heard until we have been updated on the situation, quiaff!†He bellowed to the crowded room. Looking to Natasha, he continued. “Star Captain! On my six!†Without bothering to wait for her response, he led her out of the gymnasium, heading directly to the kindraa’s operations center.
When they entered the operations center, they caught the attention of Star Commander Shana, a woman of aerospace stock and the watch commander. “Kindraa Leader, a situation is developing at the planetary HPG center. A dozen combatants stormed into the compound and are holding the staff and visitors hostage.†That news caused Jerold to glare at the petite woman, who glared back. “We only just received the news ten minutes ago.â€
“Very well,†he grated out. “Get me in contact with All Dawn’s governor.†Seeing the unsure look of the small woman, he prompted. “What?â€
Straightening her back and standing tall, the small warrior answered him. “The governor has expressly said it is not a Clan matter and does not need our aid Kindraa Leader.â€
“Get him on the comm now. And alert our forces here planet side for possible action.â€
When it rains, it storms, Jerold Danforth thought to himself as he began taking control over the operations center.
SLDF Investigation Team
Bordon, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
4th August 3092
As the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Isle of Skye contested the world of Bordon a single Vampire-class DropShip carrying the SLDF insignia and colours dived through the atmosphere landing near the planetary capital at the world's primary spaceport. Leaving the DropShip initially was a single officer dressed in SLDF dress code approaching the Lyran governor of the planet “My name is Colonel Hank Lynch, Star League Intelligence Corps†he said introducing himself.
“I had thought the SLDF were remaining out of the conflict for this world.â€
“We have no interest in your border skirmish.†Lynch admitted “the SLDF was created to protect the Inner Sphere from threats within and beyond it. There is a threat on this very planet, a mercenary command, The Alpha Team.â€
“They are with the raiders and beyond my control.â€
“I am aware of that. I just want to know if you'll get in our way?†Lynch demanded when the governor did not immediately answer the man turned back towards his DropShip walking off. Ten minutes later the Vampire was back in the air heading towards the territory claimed by the raiding forces.
Hours later as darkness fell over Bordon the DropShip flew over a lance of four Mechs that had been holding back an Isle of Skye counter attack. The four Mechs had continuously thwarted Isle of Skye moves disrupting the Isle of Skye advance at every opportunity. From the air battle armoured wearing SLDF troopers dropped through the air engaging the Mechs. The four Mechs of the Alpha Team did something completely unexpected charging forwards into the the Isle of Skye lines confusing both the Lyran and SLDF forces. The four Mechs once within the Isle of Skye lines moved laterally spreading confusion before falling back into the night. In the cross-fire several of the SLDF battle armour troopers took hits from the Isle of Skye Mechs causing further trouble.
Before the SLDF could recover from the battle The Alpha Team had made it back to the Marik-Stewart lines and under the cover of the Thunder Road Mercenary Command. Not stopping to fight with the Thunder Road they allowed Colonel Wrangler's command to engage the Isle of Skye forces and delay Colonel Lynch's SLDF Battle Armour. Carrying on behind the battle The Alpha Team's Mechs ran straight on board the Thunder Road's Overlord-class DropShip forcing the crew to lift the ship off the ground. During battle it wasn't uncommon for DropShips to lift off to avoid unnecessary damage it also allowed them to return to a different landing zone should the ground forces need to retreat. In orbit however the DropShip did not stop instead carrying on taking the Alpha Team away from the planet six days later the DropShip docked with a JumpShip and offloaded the Alpha Team's Mechs allowing the DropShip to return to the planet and for the Alpha Team to escape.
Cassandra, Faraday-Tanaga Primary Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
8th August 3092
Kindraa Leader Jerold Danforth woke from his sleep, startled by the compound alarm going off. Quickly, he tugged on a pair of pants and boots before grabbing a shirt and made his way to the operations center. By the time he got there, a scant five minutes had passed. Unlike his predecessor, he ran there.
“Sitrep,†he called out as soon as he reached the room.
“Nine Lyran JumpShips just jumped into the system Kindraa Leader,†answered the burly Elemental watch commander on duty. Already, the center had people streaming in, mostly members of the lower castes and other warriors usually stationed in the center. Jerold listened while the star commander continued. “They are broadcasting their intent to free All Dawn from us clan oppressors,†the man grumbled out.
“Get me a comm link now,†he ordered.
“Aff Kindraa Leader,†the Elemental replied. While Jerold waited, he caught sight of Star Captains Natasha and Peter Tanaga coming into the room. Peter, as usual, was dressed in fatigues, while Natasha was dressed only in a tank top and shorts, though was sweating heavily. Likely was in the gym when the alarm sounded, he thought to himself. He made a note to himself to make sure later on. “Link completed,†he heard the star commander call out to him.
Heading to the comm station, he saw a man in Lyran fatigues on the screen. “I am Kindraa Leader Jerold Danforth, Why are you here,†he asked the man.
“This is Colonel Johann Klink of the Eighteenth Lyran Regulars. I have been ordered to assist the valiant civilians of All Dawn in removing your bloodthirsty clan from All Dawn. I urge you to surrender sir. Or be destroyed, for I command a regiment of BattleMechs, assisted by six conventional regiments.â€
He had only one reply to that. “Neg.†Before the other man could begin to speak, he shut the link down. “I want planet wide comms now,†he told the technician manning the station. A moment passed before the tech nodded to him. “All units. The Lyrans are picking a fight. We will hold until relieved. Seyla.â€
“Seyla,†answered every occupant in the room as he ended his small impromptu speech.
“Peter, all munchkins and sibbies ten and above are to be activated and get all marines off the JumpShips. Star Commander Michael, I want the entire police subcaste activated.†Without bothering to wait for their response, he turned back to the comm tech. “Send a recall order to the Third Rim Lancers immediately and relay all information about the Lyran JumpShips as well. Do the same with our units on Waypoint.†Once the man confirmed his orders, Jerold turned to Natasha. “Star Captain, grab any and all bondsmen and get them to the armory and issue them weapons and equipment.â€
“All,†the young woman asked in shock.
“Aff,†was his response. “We are going to need all the help we can get. Natasha. See to it.†As the younger woman nodded and left, he looked around the room. Where once you bore the weight of command, now I must, he thought to himself, thinking of his predecessor. May I do just as well as you did. Though he never admitted it to anyone else, he did respect his now-dead rival.
McCarron's Armoured Cavalry Base camp
Brunswick, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
9th August 3092
After a longer than expected contract negotiation the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry agree contract teams with the Federated Suns. With their connections to Faith Steiner, wife of Marshal of Armies Reinhardt Steiner, the unit is able to get a non-combat assignment assisting Federated Suns survey teams scouting depopulated planets within the border of the Federated Suns searching for any former remnants of the Manei Domini and Word of Blake.
Cassandra, Faraday-Tanaga Primary Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
17th July 3092
Jerold Danforth scanned the battlefield. For four days and nights, ever since the Lyrans had landed, both the Faraday-Tanaga and the Lyrans prepared themselves for battle. Located on top of a chain of mountains in a small valley, Cassandra, the city they had built for themselves, lay. The only real way into the small valley and the heart of the Faraday-Tanaga was to its south. And his kindraa had a full year and a half to lay defenses. Yet, Jerold Danforth knew that would not be enough, for they were outnumbered one in five in Mechs and more in conventional vehicles and aerospace fighters. And roughly a fourth of the Lyrans Mechs were OmniMechs, compounding their situation. No. Their only chance of victory was to hold until relieved.
His forces planet side would need to hold for five days. That was how long until the First and Seventh Striker clusters would land planet side, for they had only just jumped into the system, along with the CFM Rook. The Third Rim Lancers, the CFM Warsaw and CFM Mandrill Provider would arrive a day later. At the moment, his aerospace and conventional aerial support were fighting the Lyrans and who knew who would win today in that arena, for the Lyrans had brought two Overlord A3’s and four Avengers.
From his vantage point at the top, what seemed to be a small explosion caught his attention. It has started, he thought, for that explosion was followed by more than a dozen others, as Lyran and Faraday-Tanaga artillery opened up on one another. He knew this would be a long battle.
Meeting
Davetal III, Clan Nova Cat Occupied
Taurian Concordat
19th August 3092
It felt strange for Erik Martens-Calderon he was on a Taurian world, deep within the Taurian Concordat, but he had no real power or sway here he was here under a flag of truce. Clan Nova Cat ground forces held the planet securely and in orbit an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser hung over them stamping the Clan authority over the system even with the SLDF occupying Davetal II.
Entering the Nova Cat command complex he stepped passed two fully armoured Elemental warriors the building itself was a completely newly built building and it was big with the corridors themselves wide enough for Elementals in armour to travel through them. Today his escort was not an armoured warrior instead a lower casteman dressed in a green jumpsuit. Erik's own two suited guards held back slightly but their presence was only a little comfort they were heavily our numbered should anything go wrong. He was led through the facility up two levels to a pair of wooden doors which were opened by another pair of Nova Cat lower castemen. His guide also stopped allowing Erik to pass and enter, neither of his guards entered the room leaving him alone as the doors closed behind him. The room was quite bare overall the carpets were a bland light blue while the steel desk and chairs were nothing special either. On the far side of the room were a pair of wooden doors which opened moments later entering through the doors was a familiar face, she was a little older but her green eyes were there, the dark hair and beautiful body. Unlike the last time he'd seen her she on Taurus she'd had an unhappy look on her face she'd returned to her Clan despite not really wishing to today however she looked proud of where she was. “Sonja†he said quietly smirking at seeing her “it's... sorry, it has been a long time†he said quietly seven years in fact.
“Aff, Protector it has indeed been many years†she said formally “welcome to Davetal†she said smiling.
“I wish we were seeing each other under different circumstances.â€
“We both have to live with the choices that we have made, and those that were made for us.†She said quite coldly.
“That brings me to the reason for my visit.â€
“So you said you wished to discuss our position here.â€
“Aff†Erik said using the Clan affirmative bringing a brief smile from Sonja. “After looking at some of our internal policies†Erik began “I believe that I was at fault for Cham Kithrong's actions I gave him too much leeway.†Erik admitted “he brought me up for much of my life and I allowed him much freedom which led to the formation of the Omega Six and his operations.†He concluded “so I would like to personally apologize for my actions in the trouble between us.â€
“Apologize as Erik Martens-Calderon or as the Protector of the Taurian Concordat?†Sonja questioned
“Both†Erik admitted “we were in the wrong. I do not and cannot support the Nova Cat occupation of this system but I am sorry for the actions that led to it.â€
“I as Sonja Rosse of Clan Nova Cat will accept that Erik, but it is not forgiven, or is it forgotten. We will be remaining on this world.â€
“I understand that Sonja, one day perhaps we can speak with respect like we once did.â€
“Perhaps in time that will happen†Sonja said showing him a flick of a smile again “for now we will allow you to leave unmolested.†She said standing up from the desk turning towards the exit “I thank you for your apology†she said finally before leaving the room.
Federated Suns Courts
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
22nd August 3092
After nearly ten years in the Federated Suns courts the independent company Interconnectedness Unlimited are still unwilling to released Data on their experimental K-F Drive tested at the New Syrtis Shipyards. They are also unwilling to reveal the location of the Lucretia, the vessel equipped with the drive, or the vessel‘s complete capabilities. With this result House Davion plan to take them to the Star League High Court with the promise to share the revealled data with the SLDF should Interconnectedness Unlimited reveal what they know.
Cassandra, Faraday-Tanaga Primary Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
22nd August 3092
Four days of intense battle had battered the Faraday-Tanaga, Jerold Danforth could easily see. They had lost the air battle, as he thought they would, on the first day. Since then, the Lyran air crews kept constant pressure on the Faraday-Tanaga. As dawn approached, Jerold knew his kindraa’s forces on All Dawn was near to its breaking point. Twice already the proceeding day, he had been forced to call in his reserves. Child warriors not yet ready for battle. And the second time, his kindraa only just barely held the line. Around him, broken Mechs, burnt out vehicles, and dead bodies, both Lyran and Faraday-Tanaga, lay. What Mechs and vehicles still operable would retreat to the last trench as soon as he gave the order.
They would need to hold out until tomorrow, when reinforcements would at last arrive. Already, the presence was known on the battlefield, for the Lyran fighters had finally ended their ground support to fight the incoming Faraday-Tanaga fighters high up in orbit. That news he allowed to disseminate throughout his lines, finally raising the morale of his warriors.
Suddenly, movement caught his eye. Battered Lyran Mechs, with just as equally battered Lyran armor, had begun pushing. He guessed the Lyrans would have used their artillery if they were able to, but for some reason, the Lyran artillery had slackened off early yesterday and for that, he was grateful.
He spoke into his radio. “All units. Start phased withdrawal now.†As he spoke, he moved his Mech past a destroyed Daedalus IndustrialMech, pressed into service days before to help with the fighting. As the fighting began starting, he noticed a child’s body lying on the ground. Not for the first time and likely not the last, he knew the Lyrans would pay for what they did these past four days. It started with the deaths of Theodore Albiev and President Mayfield, the Rim Collection’s president, from wounds they both received in a cowardly attack. Peter Tanaga had fallen yesterday while leading the sibkos in battle. Star Colonel Stuart Faraday of the Sixteenth Assault, promoted when Jacob Faraday agreed to reform the Watch, was missing and presumed killed. Indeed, of the eleven star captains he started in battle with five days ago, only Star Captain Natasha remained. He caught sight of her now one-armed Griffin IIC as it limped across the battlefield leading other units towards the last trench line.
All along the half circle that was the Faraday-Tanaga trench, vehicles, Mechs, and power armor began retreating to the last trench line, all while keeping heavy fire on the Lyrans. He felt the shoulder of his old Cauldron-born take a hit, likely a Gauss round, though he continued as if nothing had happened. He finally reached the trench with what remained of his supernova. Only four other Mechs remained, though three of them were likely ruined beyond repair. The Lyrans had paused at the last trench, roughly a kilometer away.
Then he saw the Lyrans charge. He quickly gunned down a small thirty ton Arctic Fox that was already on its last legs before he faced a Griffin and an Atlas. He knew full well who this Atlas belonged to, for it could only be Colonel Klink in front of him. As the Griffin went to face his lone still combat-viable star mate, the Atlas came forward raining down pulse and laser fire upon him. He answered in kind, firing his ER large laser and pulse lasers. Unfortunately, that was all he had, for his forces had ran out of missiles, gauss shells, and autocannon ammunition in the night to repel the last great push.
Minutes slowly passed by as the Faraday-Tanaga defended their last line while the Lyrans desperately tried to push their way through. Jacob Faraday well knew the Lyrans mission was to neutralize the Faraday-Tanaga and if they could destroy their manufacturing facilities and the genetic repository, then they would be successful even in death. And for that sole reason, where the Faraday-Tanaga would have surrendered, they fought.
But it was not enough, Jerold knew, as his star mates soon began falling one by one his unit was far beyond the military term Combat Loss Grouping where units that had fought together tended to die together. Only four Mechs remained to the Lyrans eleven, his being one of them and they were quickly overwhelmed. As his Mech took laser shot after laser shot, Jerold Danforth still fought, but at last, a shot pierced the protective shield wall encasing the Mech’s reactor, causing the Mech to explode, Jerold along with it, before he knew what happened.
Natasha fought the controls of her Mech as a gauss slug knocked it down. Pushing her battered and nearly-destroyed Mech, she saw the kindraa leader’s old Cauldron-Born explode not forty meters away. Damnit! All around her Mechs were down or destroyed. All that were standing between the dozen or so Lyran Mechs and their support forces were her Mech, Leland's, roughly a dozen heavily damaged battle armored Elementals and maybe fifty conventional infantry. Her Mech was by far the better off, for her fellow warrior’s was crawling, one leg and arm destroyed and only had an ER pulse laser it looked like. What to do! What to do! Suddenly her radio crackled to life just as the looming Atlas was suddenly hit by ER PPC blasts from above fire. All around her, Salamander and Elemental power armor were dropping out from the sky. Overhead, Kirghiz OmniFighters were flying.
“This is Star Colonel Jessica Lopez to all dezgra Lyrans. Your JumpShips have surrendered and you have no chance to escape. Nor can you hold out for a rescue, for the All Dawn militia has the spaceport and the planetary HPG under their control. Stand down now if you want to live beyond today. If not, keep fighting. You have thirty seconds to comply. Otherwise, you die. Lopez out.â€
Within seconds, first one, than another, than finally in twos and threes, the Lyran Mechs and vehicles slowly stopped their firing around her, and their conventional infantry dropped their weapons and surrendered.
The cavalry may have arrived, Natasha thought to herself, but the Lyrans will pay dearly for what they did here to us.
Cassandra, Faraday-Tanaga Primary Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
24th August 3092
Star Colonel Aemelia walked through the battlefield. The stench from days of fighting had begun to linger. The effort to rescue stranded wounded was already underway. Yet, the jaguar within her roared with a fury she hadn’t felt since the loss of her former clan. Prisoners taken were quick to point out the Duchess of Timbuktu was the instigator of this attack. And by Kerensky, Aemelia swore she would have vengeance against that blasted woman!
It surprised her how she found she cared for her adopted clan. No, my adopted kindraa, she amended softly in her head. The others now looked for her to lead them. And she would. She would lead them straight to the gates of Timbuktu, she swore to herself.
She had warned Jerold Danforth the importance of keeping more than the Sixteenth Assault cluster and the Kindraa Command Supernova here and yet he did not listen to her. He sent her and her warriors and the crippled Warsaw to Otisberg to take part in a training exercise, ostensibly to foster good relations with the Collection. Only it cost him his life and nearly all the warriors Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga had on All Dawn and for that, she would never forgive him. And she would ensure he would be remembered as an inept fool for that.
She clicked on her radio once she ensured it was set to all frequencies. “All Lancers. In ten hours, deploy to your DropShips. Striker clusters remain on All Dawn. Allied units, you all are welcomed to the party if you want.â€
Already, the Rim Collection was at a war footing. The Nineteenth Striker Cluster and the CFM Resolute had deployed to Waypoint. The Rim Guards were offering three of their six clusters for offensive actions. Karen and Frank Able, the children of Jerry Able and the commanders of the First and Second Rim Lancers respectfully, both wanted blood and their units were ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. All four supernovas formed from three combined-arms battalions of the Rim Collection Militia were also ready, though they would likely not be deployed. Finally, all planetary militias had reported in, all ready to do their part in the coming war.
A war she was certain to end before it could properly begin. But how to get the acting-president on board? That was the question she had yet to answer, but it did not matter much to her what he thought. The Faraday-Tanaga tasted blood and soon it will have Lyran blood and his subordinates supported the Faraday-Tanaga. And that, she knew, mattered more than a room of free birth politicians.
Cassandra, Faraday-Tanaga Primary Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
25th August 3092
Jerry Able grouched in pain as he forced his body to move, leaning heavily on his cane and his daughter, who was at his side. He had yet to really recover from the assassination attack-twenty seven days ago, having just been let out of the hospital a day ago. Yet the entire Rim Collection was looking to him to lead them into this war. A war he was loath to enter, rightfully so. The Rim Collection had no hope for a military victory in a drawn out war. Only the fact the Lyrans were still busy with the fallout from battling the remnants of the World of Blake meant they had a chance at retribution.
His daughter came up with the idea. Bring the people of the Lyran Commonwealth over to them, she said, and victory was theirs. And that he could not argue with, for he well knew public perception with the archon at the moment was shaky at best. And for that, they would be relying on it.
He paused as he reached the doorway leading to the auditorium where he would give his speech. “Ready papa,†Karen asked, bringing him out of his thoughts.
“No, but I will be,†he answered her. Before she could respond, he nodded to the security team around him. Nearly all were members of the Rim Lancers and the rest clanners. They were taking no chances, not after the assassination. “Let us get on with this,†he said softly before one of his man opened up the door that led to the auditorium, to the crowd waiting shakily within.
StarCorps Facilities
Ciotat, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
29th August 3092
An aide showed the woman in she was quite beautiful for industrial espionage investigator she also looked quite young perhaps a little over thirty. “Inspector Jackson, welcome to Ciotat.â€
“Thank you, Director Firzhugh†she said plesently moving to the chair just in front of his desk.
“I believe you have information for us regarding a possible breach in our data protection systems?†He asked as she sat down.
“Yes†Jackson admitted “we have found evidence that Gibson BattleMechs Incorporated agents infiltrated StarCorps facilities here and on Son Hou.â€
“I had not heard of Son Hou being affected†Fizhugh admitted “tea or coffee Miss Jackson?†He offered
“Please that would be nice. And its Evita†she said smiling nicely. Fizhugh turned around and poured them both a drink from a porcelain kettle. Turning around he placed both cups in front of them Jackson reached forward taking a sip of the drink burning her lip slightly.
“More milk?†He asked seeing her reaction.
“Please†she said placing the cup back down. Fizhugh turned his back to her Evita Jackson moved quickly flicking her wrist as her hand passed over Fizhugh's cup. As her wrist turned two small capsules dropped into Fizhugh's drink before the man could turn back around Evita settled back into her chair. The Director reached forwards pouring milk into Evita's cup before replacing the jug. Evita took the cup taking a drink “much better thank you.â€
“My pleasure†he said sitting down taking the cup in his hands taking a small sip. “So you're investigating an instance that Gibson BattleMechs infiltrated our systems and stole data?†He asked taking another sip it was a little too sweet but it was warm and would do “as I understand it Gibson BattleMechs Incorporated is no more it was destroyed when Gibson was destroyed?â€
“That's correct†she said watching him drink more “however it is important for the Manei Domini that the people that helped them, and are still in place within your organization, are looked after and safeguarded for the future.â€
“They are still in place?†He asked taking a mouthful of the drink swallowing heavily “then we must flush them out†he said as he lost the feeling in his arm the cup slipping from his hand.
“I don't agree†Evita said placing her cup back on the table. “You see I want these people to remain and continue to feed us information.†She said smiling raising from her chair “don't try to reply or to speak Abram you have been paralyzed.†He said seeing the shock on his face “don't worry you won't have to live with it.†She said stepping behind Abram Fizhugh gripping his chair as she turned it towards the glass window with a strong push of the chair throwing the Director's paralyzed body through the window. “What a shame†she whispered kneeling down beside the Director's desk pushing a couple of data chips into the computer within moments they automatically uploaded a virus into the system which would cover the tracks of all her people. Quickly withdrawing the chips Evita moved out of the office removing a pair of small cartridges from her pocket throwing them back inside before quickly closing the door. As she walked down the corridor the office exploded in a brief contained explosion as Evita disappeared into the stairwell as the fire and evacuation alarms began to sound. Stepping down the stairs she rose her hand to her mouth “this is Avitue, Phase One Complete, Phase Two Complete, Executing Phase Three no complications.†She stated leaving the office block as emergency services arrived. Inspector Evita Jackson disappeared into the crowd that had gathered around watching the fire engulf the building.
-
Again my thanks to James Tanaga for the Rim Collection storyline and the Steiner Palace scene
Royal Planning Room
Steiner Palace, Arcturus
Arcturus Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd September 3092
“Damnit!†The room was silent save for the furious Archon. “How the hell could this happen General!†he yelled to General of the Armies Keane Sortek while leaning over the table. “I thought my orders were very clear! No raids are to take place against the Collection unless with my or your direct approval!â€
“They were Sire-†he was cut off.
“Then how did Duchess Sherris usurp the chain of command!â€
“Unknown Sire,†replied the younger man.
“God damnit!†Sighing and brushing his hands through his grey hair, he looked around the room, catching the eyes of the others present before he turned to look back to the General of the Armies. “What were our losses?†Seeing him not want to answer the question, the Archon waved his hand at him. “Tell me the truth General. How bad were our losses?â€
Sighing Keane Sortek finally answered his Archon. “Sire, we have confirmed Colonel Klink led the Eighteenth Lyran Regulars and six conventional regiments, four being militia, to All Dawn. Included in his force were one militia BattleMech battalion, seconded from the Alekseyevka Timbuktu Theater Militia combat team, two power armor battalions, and our naval forces based at Timbuktu. We are looking at a loss of what equals an entire theater militia combat team and a BattleMech regiment at the present time.â€
As whispers among the others present in the room began, Peter raised his voice. “Silence.†Instantly the room became quiet at his command, all waiting for their Archon. As he sat in his chair, he waved for the general to continue. “What’s the current situation?â€
Keane Sortek pressed a few buttons on the table and the holo-projector sprang to life, showing the entire Timbuktu Theater. Zooming into the area bordering the Collection, he continued. “At the present time, the Seventeenth Lyran Regulars, backed by a BattleMech battalion from the Florida Timbuktu Theater Militia, and a mechanized infantry regiment are defending Timbuktu against the Rim Collection’s Third Rim Lancers and elements of the First Rim Lancers and the First Rim Guards. The worlds of Viborg, Wiltshire, and Halifax all reported Mandrill forces as well before we lost contact with them.†As he spoke, each of the four planets became highlighted.
Then he highlighted four other planets. “The Second Commonwealth Guards RCT and the Third Royal Guards RCT are both in the area, as are the Alekseyevka and Florida Timbuktu Theater Militias. I also recommend moving these five units from Alarion Province to the border Sire, along with the LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood and the LCS Snow Fire from Alarion to Kaumberg.†As he finished, the positions of four other RCT’s, a BattleMech regiment, and two warships became highlighted.
“Why are Third Royal Guards on that border General,†asked Peter in a steely voice.
“We needed an elite formation watching the border and with the Third Royal Guards needing downtime, I ordered their transfer to what was supposed to be our easiest border to watch. Still, as you can see, Sire, we can easily force the Mandrills and their puppets back to All Dawn.†Peter nodded to Keane Sortek, letting go for now the matter of the Royal Guards.
“That’s all well and good, General Sortek, but I find it telling the Mandrills aren’t in command of the force attacking Timbuktu,†came the voice of Olivia Steiner-Davis, Peter’s press secretary. “The public will as well, especially since Able was very careful to lay the blame entirely at Duchess Sherris’s feet, not ours in his speech. You know the one from earlier where he highlighted the attack on All Dawn and in reprisal, he targeted four of ours,†the early-thirties distant kinswoman of Peter’s piped up to the general.
“I agree with her, Sire,†came Director Robert Johnson of the LIC. “The public, at least here on Arcturus, is handling this as a private matter between the Rim Collection and Timbuktu and would rather we not intercede so long as the Rim Collection keeps to its word. They already have decided her guilty. And the Estates General will likely to take that approach as well, Sire.â€
“Why would they,†asked General Sortek, perplexed.
Catching on, Peter decided to answer the question himself. “In the Estates General eyes, the Duchess just became expendable due to the loss of one, possibly two BattleMech regiments, along with the strength of an entire RCT. There is no way they will come her defense for that even if it means losing Timbuktu you don’t piss an entire clan off and Sherris forgot that. It’s just that simple if we go to war with the Mandrill Clan then we will have to strip our other borders to match them. We've already lost control of Bolan due to Tamarind's moves, both the Wolves and Falcons are poised to strike over out other borders.†Looking around, Peter saw the other members of the room openly grimace. He too did as well, for he was not looking forward to the political firestorm this was about to bring to the Lyran Commonwealth.
“So we abandon the Seventeenth to them!†the General of the Armies half raised his voice before catching himself. “Sire.â€
Sighing, Peter still answered the younger man. “I will negotiate with President Able for their safe return General them and any civilian who wishes to leave. So long as the Mandrills and the Collection keep their word, I cannot and will not lead the Lyran Commonwealth into the Rim Collection. Nor will I allow us to be seen as weak, however, for doing so invites trouble with the clans. Send the three additional RCT’s from Alarion province and the LCS Snow Fire to the border, but they are strictly there to defend the border, not to take any offensive action without my say so. If the negotiations fail, well, they give us options.â€
“Yes Sire,†Keane grumbled.
Nodding to General Sortek, Peter glanced around the room, before looking to Olivia. “Olivia, I need you to pen a speech after this meeting dictating I am tacitly agreeing to President Able’s peace terms paint Sherris as the guilty party and that I as Archon will shoulder the blame for her failures but I will not start a war because of her. Include that these terms will only be agreed on subject to the return of all LCAF personnel based at Timbuktu, prisoners taken at All Dawn, and turning over the Duchess to us. Also include the movement of the RCT’s and the LCS Snow Fire into the area as part of the speech.â€
“Yes Sire.â€
“Sire,†General Sortek’s voice caused Peter glance back to the General of the Armies. “With the loss of Timbuktu, where should we route the Timbuktu regional protocols to? Nearby planets do not have the support in place to take over.â€
Good question, Peter thought. The voice of Hauptmann-General Margaret Hunter, the commander of the Arcturan Guards Brigade, grabbed his attention. “If I may Sire†she asked. After he nodded his head to her, she continued. “Part of why we are in this mess is just how close Timbuktu was to the Collection. Also, I believe, Sire, part of the command issues in the theater is due to its size.â€
Before anyone else could speak, Peter did. “You believe we should break up the theaters Hauptmann-General? Without regard to what that action would cause politically or the vulnerability it would leave us in militarily?â€
“Only the Timbuktu Theater, Sire,†she answered quickly. “The other theaters do not have the problems of Timbuktu Theater.†She pointed out “Arc Royal, Arcturus and Melissa have the Falcon border, the Isle of Skye is its own inclusive command while Bolan did serve its purpose until Tamarind moved in.†She said “Timbuktu had responsibility for both the Rim Collection, Free Worlds League and Marian Hegemony before its break up. The Rim Collection wasn't a problem, now it is.â€
Peter nodded to her showing he understood where she was going with the idea and judging by the nodding from General Sortek and Director Johnson, they did too. “I’ll take it under advisement Hauptmann-General. If I go through with your idea, which worlds would be our new regional command worlds?â€
“Kaumberg and Son Hoa, Sire,†the woman answered matter-of-factly.
“What are your thoughts Gentlemen?†he asked the two man while he weighed his own thoughts on the matter.
“Alarion Province isn’t going to enjoy being forced into periphery politics Sire,†warned the general.
“True, but I agree with the Hauptmann-General here Sire. If we had an entire theater just watching the Mandrills, we would not be involved in this mess.â€
Nodding to them, he came to his decision. “Hauptmann-General Hunter, I am charging you with making a viable plan to strip apart Timbuktu Theater. General Sortek, reroute all Timbuktu protocols to Kaumberg and Son Hoa for now. All military forces guarding the Mandrills will report to Kaumberg while those bordering the Marik states will report to Son Hoa.â€
“Yes Sire,†the three answered him.
“We will meet back in two hours to go over the speech and minor details. Dismissed.†As the occupants in the room began to disperse, Peter called out. “Oh and General, the next time I learn one of my Royal Guard RCT’s is deployed without my knowledge, I will take measures to ensure there won't a third time. Am I understood,†he asked the General of the Armies steely.
“Yes Sire. I understand,†answered the now nervous general.
“Good. Dismissed.â€
Search Imperial Palace
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
9th September 3092
From the Imperial Palace Emi Kurita disappears from her guards. An extensive search of the Palace grounds shows no sign of the child suggesting a kidnapping. All traffic and into and out of New Samarkand is blocked by DCMS Naval forces and the ISF. Unfortunately after seven days of searching there is still no sign of the missing child as the traffic and communications embargo is lifted from New Samarkand a wave of anger spreads across the realm for the failure of Minoru Kurita.
Taurus Territorial Industries
Orbital Facility, Sterope
Taurian Concordat
12th September 3092
Stepping up to the window Taurian Protector Erik Martens-Calderon looked out over Sterope's small orbiting shipyard beside him stood CEO Matthias Commager. “An impressive facility, Mr Commager†here aerospace fighters, small craft and DropShips were produced the vast majority of them sent to the Taurian military today Erik wanted more from them.
“The Taurian people have made this facility what is it Protector, we live to serve.â€
“I want you to serve more†Erik admitted “given your agreement today the Taurus National Bank will transfer funds into your accounts and engineers will arrive.â€
“For the reason?†Matthias Commager asked although he liked the idea of additional funds and personnel being hired and he was willing to assist the Taurian leader all he could he also wanted to know what his company would be getting into.
“For the last eight months the Taurian Concordat has been hiring designers and engineers to build a shipyard capable of building JumpShips domestically for the Taurian Concordat. We have a design ready to begin construction and you have the shipyard that we could build on†Erik pointed out “I wish to merge these two capabilities and produce an asset like the Taurian Concordat has not had since the Succession Wars, the ability to produce and repair our own JumpShips.â€
“And would we remain as a commercial company or become an asset of the Taurian state? Protector, I have shareholders to look after.â€
“I understand you, Mr Commager†Erik admitted “your company will remain independent of Tauiran state control. Aerospace Fighters, small craft, DropShips and surplus JumpShips will be yours to sell to whomever you wish.†He said admittedly the chances of there being surplus JumpShips was close to zero.
“What is the name of the design?â€
“The Hydes†Erik said smiling the JumpShip was named after the star cluster which held the Taurian capital system and some of its most important production.â€
“This could make us a target. At present most keep away from this system, even since House Davion's advance. A shipyard capable of producing JumpShips changes things.â€
“Yes it does, this system will be receiving a permanent garrison, aerospace fighter wing and Assault DropShip squadron for its defence. We also plan to push House Davion off our worlds.â€
“Then Protector you have us.†Commager said extending his hand Erik smiled and met his hand shaking it in agreement.
Sea Fox Clan Council
Twycross, Clan Occuaption Zone
14th September 3092
“I am Loremaster of Clan Sea Fox, we have refused to be divided like other Clans became†Semi Kalasa said “however today we must answer for the failure of one of our Khanates to protect the people under its charge and for the declaration of war on us by the Principality of Regulus.â€
“Wars can wait†Hanna Coston said quietly her people had already made approaches towards the Territorial Waters leadership but she new that Semi Kalasa had moved forward quicker.
“I agree†Semi Kalasa said “which is why the Faulk Khanate moves to absorb the Territorial Waters Khanate.â€
“The Bloodscent Khanate wished to take in the Agate Skate.†saKhan Blaine Hawker said carefully the Agate Skate was the best formation within the Territorial Waters Khanate a Cluster in strength and had been based on Twycross for the last six years its warriors were barely combat worthy but the technology was the best available to the Territorial Waters.
“That formation no longer exists†Hanna Coston said carefully “as soon as the Territorial Waters failure reached my forces. I personally oversaw the destruction of the the Agate Skate and the death of Galaxy Commander Katerina Kalasa.†She said there was no-one from the Territorial Waters here today it had been Hanna Coston's intention to eliminate their leadership permanently ensuring that none of the other Khanates successfully absorbed their incompetence along with their remaining forces.
“Without representation of the Territorial Waters how will they fight for their continued independence?â€
“They will not†Hanna Coston said “they have failed our people I expect whoever takes control over their forces to ensure that only the best of their number survive and the rest are consigned to our past.â€
“They can hardly be all damned for the failures of a few. How could they anticipate that the Regulans would resort to the use of nuclear weapons and orbital bombardment?†Blaine Webster said defending them.
“We live among barbarians†Hanna Coston said quietly “we will not be reduced to their level but we will have our revenge. I move for the remains of the Territorial Waters Khanate to be placed under the command of the Clan's Loremaster and the Faulk Khanate.†She said surprising all that were gathered, they'd all expected the Khan to bid for control over the fallen Khanate her endorsement of Semi Kalasa's forces taking control of the Territorial Waters surprised many.
With the Khan's endorsement the voting went quickly and unopposed with the Faulk Khanate being awarded controlling powers over the remaining civilians, scientists, traders and warriors of the Territorial Waters. Unfortunately with the destruction of the Blood Horse and the ground facilities on Kyeinnisan little remained of the civilian, trading or scientist castes instead all that remained was the damaged Hakaze-class Destroyer Territorial, and three ground forces clusters. After the meeting Hanna Coston dismissed the Council waiting until all but Semi Kalasa remained “why support the Faulk Khanate's growth?†The Loremaster asked “you have been looking at ways to weaken us for years.
“Why not Loremaster, you are the keeper of our Clan's laws and traditions what better a way for the fallen warriors of the Territorial Waters to learn but from you? You will of course also hold the burden of taking our revenge against the Principality of Regulus. You will be the one to show the other Clans and the Inner Sphere that we are more than just traders, remember to make sure your warriors know that our Clan's honour is on their success.†The Khan said leaving the room she knew well and good that the only ground forces that the Faulk Khanate had beyond the Loremaster's own Cluster were now the demoralized ground forces of the Territorial Waters. To use orbital bombardment was beneath Clan Sea Fox even after the devastation wrought against them on Kyeinnisan.
Peace Talks
Stuttgart, Kaumberg
Kaumberg Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th September 3092
Ambassador Robert Strauss sat in the middle of the diplomatic team from the Rim Collection. To his left sat Star Colonel Karen Able, acting as the representative of the Rim Collection’s military, and to his right sat the wheelchair bound Star Colonel Lysa Djerassi, acting as the representative of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga. For the purpose of these neigotiations the Kindraa had adopted the full mantle of Clan Fire Mandrill according to the intelligence gathered from the Lyran prisoners the LCAF seemed to believe that the whole Fire Mandrill Clan was at their doors. Neither President Able or the Kindraa leadership were intending on dissuading this idea. Across from them sat the Archon’s representative, Mils Steiner-Davis, Baron Joshua Sheridan of Kaumberg representing the newly formed Kaumberg Province and the Estates General, and Leutnant-General Kathy Parks of the Third Royal Guards RCT, the Lyran’s official military representative.
Around the table and throughout the room were members of the media. Strauss could see the Lyran outlets in strength amid the two small Rim Collection outlets he brought with him from the Collection. What was surprising were the amount of news outlets from the Star League Protectorate's Interstellar News Network, the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey, and even two freelance reporters from the Magistracy of Canopus. Strauss suppressed a smile as Lysa handed him the document to sign. It was not every day a periphery power won a war against one of the Great Houses.
The peace treaty, and it was a peace treaty, was fairly generous he thought, as he quickly scanned the document to ensure nothing hidden had been added by the Lyrans at the last second. This public signing was demanded by President Able and the Lyrans had acquiesced to them. Not only they had secured four planets from the Lyrans, they also secured all the remaining military equipment held by the Lyrans on Timbuktu on top of the salvage already taken on All Dawn, this had netted the Collection much-needed military hardware. Any civilian who wished to leave the worlds taken by the Rim Collection were welcome to do so and would be provided transport to leave. Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga had taken full possession of Timbuktu Aemelia and Lysa Djerassi called it Isorla which Strauss had been told mean “Spoils of War†what the Kindraa woud do with this additional population was beyond Strauss they had taken significant damage during the fighting for All Dawn rebuilding their facilities there would take quite a bit of the Clan's resources.
At the end of the document, he saw the clause ensuring the Lyrans gained custody of Cantrelle Sherris, the former Duchess of Timbuktu, only after she went through a Trial of Grievance against Star Colonel Aemelia. Shrugging, he signed the document, resting easy the Faraday-Tanaga woman would let Sherris live, if badly roughed up and officially ending the Six Week War, as both sides had agreed to call the conflict.
After he signed the document, he shook the hands of the Lyran diplomatic team. Once completed, he took out a small data stick out of his shirt pocket. “My government wishes for this to reach the Archon, Ambassador,†he spoke as he handed the elder man the device. “It contains an information packet on the Rim Collection, including why we are in the middle of a military build-up.â€
“I see Mr. Strauss. I will ensure my cousin receives this,†answered the Steiner kinsman. “Now the press would like to take some pictures.†He said the last while putting a hand on Robert’s shoulder, leading him and giving him a handshake while both smiled for the cameras.
Trial of Possession
Clan Hall, Sudeten
Clan Occupation Zone
20th September 3092
In a series of Trials of Position Loremaster Bryan Pryde takes over as Khan of Clan Jade Falcon brutally putting down his opponents including saKhan Niels Icaza. The new Khan of Clan Jade Falcon then initiates a brutal crackdown on the population of Sudeten for allowing Uvin Buhallin to be killed, Bryan is convinced that someone must have known about the attack and is intending on ensuring that this does not happen again. As per the New Khan's order the Jade Falcons abandon Machida and Zongshan to the Lyran Commonwealth after months of stalemate instead falling back inside the Occupation Zone.
Hiring Hall
Bowang, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former Free Worlds League
28th September 3092
Following the Archon's announcement that Timbuktu would no longer be a Theatre Command and that the Lyran Commonwealth would not be retaliating against the Rim Collection's attacks members of several Lyran Militias go AWOL from their posts losing confidence in Archon Peter Steiner-Davion. Several of these disaffected LCAF troopers make their way to Bowang in the Former-Free Worlds League where they form the Blade Legion. Forming under Colonel Ian Redwolf the troops agree that the Lyran Commonwealth is not their enemy, and wishing to avoid prosecution by LCAF authorities, they choose to instead remove themselves from the possibility and accept a contract with the Marian Hegemony.
With only thirty-five Mechs on their roster they choose to employ the Marian Hegemony and Clan method of organization deploying three Centuries of ten Mechs each and a single command lance of five Mechs. Each member of the Blades carries at least one bladed weapon while several of the Mechs have been refitted to carry swords and vibroblades if they were not originally part of the design. In the Marian Hegemony they employ dozens of recruits forming them into several twenty-five personnel platoons who are used for base security and DropShip defence.
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:) Another great update! Glad to see the peace settlement between the RC and LC. I like how the former Duchess of Timbuktu, Cantrelle Sherris will be turnover to the government of LC after a Trial of Grievance! ;D Hope to see another update soon!
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:) Another great update! Glad to see the peace settlement between the RC and LC. I like how the former Duchess of Timbuktu, Cantrelle Sherris will be turnover to the government of LC after a Trial of Grievance! ;D Hope to see another update soon!
All James Tanaga's work. I pointed in the direction it needed to go and he's done the vast majority of the work he's done a great job considering the original plan was just to save some of Clan Fire Mandrill a very worthy addition to the story line.
Now some bonus time
Another ship of my AU, considering the recent Sea Fox trouble I thought it appropriate. My thanks to Corsair_SG for fixing it.
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/regulus-class-frigate/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/regulus-class-frigate/)
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Contract Negotiation
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
1st October 3092
Following the final evacuation of Galatea the Ghosts of the Abyss Company accept a formal contract with the Lyran Commonwealth. The unit under the command of Driscoll Patterson had helped more than two hundred thousand survivors escape the runs of Galatea but were now ready to take out their frustrations on enemy targets. They are initially sent to Arc Royal to allow the company to learn how to work together in a combat stuation.
SLS Covenant (Covenant-class Cruiser)
Asteroid Belt, Sol System
Star League Protectorate
4th October 3092
The SLS Covenant was returning to the Titan Shipyards in the Sol System for maintenance Commanding-General Archer Christifori had journeyed with the ship so he could attend meetings on Terra and attend a disciplinary hearing for one of his WarShip commanders. The cruiser jumped into the Sol System above the asteroid belt between Jupiter and Mars from the WarShip's docking collar a single DropShip, a Conquistador-class vessel, the Avenger dropped away. On the ship's command deck Archer Christifori tried to keep out of the way this was his ship to command, litterally, First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion had given it to him as a birthday present in thanks for his return following David Natale's death. Archer had almost refused the ship he knew nothing about DropShips or their command, but he knew that his families shipping company would find a use for it when he eventually retired again, for now the ship was seconded to the SLDF as his personal DropShip. The ship's operational Commander, Commodore Navid Aamir glanced to him for instructions. “Take me to the site of the reported incident before we proceed to Terra.†He ordered the commander nodded and the ship banked slightly diving into the asteroid belt the sixteen thousand ton vessel very nimble in the vacuum of space.
Hours seemed to pass before Archer was called back to the command deck the Avenger moving at a little under one gravity of acceleration as they passed through the asteroids. “We're here sir†Navid reported as the Commanding-General entered the bridge. Glancing up at the external view screens Archer's mouth dropped as he saw the image displayed from the Avenger's external cameras.
“My word†he said finally watching as the Conquistador slowly moved passed the massive wreck floating in the asteroid field. It was a WarShip that was for certain but even in its dilapidated state Archer could tell it was a WarShip like no other it had a style to it that was like nothing built by the original Star League, the Clans or the Inner Sphere since. “I've heard stories of this ship ever since Terra was taken back from the Word of Blake. I've always meant to visit her, to see what all the fuss was about, I now see†he admitted.
“David Natale used to visit this place every time he came into the system†Navid said he'd served with the deceased Admiral during his career before transferring to the Commanding-General's detail “he used to say it reminded him that WarShips were not invincible.â€
“That one never even made it into service†Archer reminded the Commodore.
“Yes sir, David held a dream that once he succeeded you as Commanding-General he was going to restart the “Enterprise Project†try to make his mark on the SLDF.â€
“He's already made quite a mark Navid, we wouldn't be where we are without him.†Archer said his eyes hadn't left the massive ship he could see where weapons bays had been ripped out and where other parts of the hull had been cut away over the years. “Could she be put into service?â€
“That ship?†Navid said rhetorically “not a chance. But the class she was supposed to be... probably. I'm not an expert with WarShip technology but from what I understand there have been several significant advances over the years with our encounters with the Clans and their superior craftmanship our ships have improved as well.â€
“Is there a place for her though? The SLDF built her as a proof of concept more than anything. They had fleets of ships that already carried thousands of small craft, they didn't really need her.â€
“No sir, they didn't but we could use her. Our fleet isn't nearly as big as the original SLDF's it won't be for a hundred years especially with Titan being our only shipyard. That ship used to carry nearly one thousand small craft itself she would be quite a boost to our fleet, if we could keep her supplied.â€
“Fighter production shouldn't be too much of an issue there are more aerospace fighters produced today and by more people than there ever has been in human history.†Archer said thinking out loud “maybe something to ponder for the future. Now back to the issue at hand give me a rundown of what happened.â€
“Yes sir†Navid said Archer had read the report already but wanted to hear it from someone who worked in space “two weeks ago the SLS Tamarind was on patrol in the asteroid belt as part of her shakedown cruise the ship has caused us problems since the minute we received her from the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey but it seems Titan has got things worked out.†He said Archer nodded he'd heard about the Tamarind's woes as well the Unity-class Frigate was more of a problem ship than the gift it was supposed to be. “The Unity's sensors detected a pair of small craft running close to the asteroids and called for them to stop for inspection. Neither stopped. The Unity's commander employed his ship's Naval Lasers in an effort to slow them down allowing his own small craft to catch up with the ships this weapons fire caused a massive amount of debris which according to the Belters who live out here has endangered hundreds of lives.â€
“Is it normal practice for our WarShips to engage capital weaponry in the belt?â€
“It's not unheard of sir but its not standard practice, the chance of creating new hazards to navigation is too high in most cases.â€
“Why didn't the Belters stop?â€
“It looks like they've modified some aerospace fighters to carry cargo.†Navid said Archer had let him look over the report before arriving here he needed some insight from a naval officer the Belters had created quite a mess in the belt with their dealings. “Most likely the Belters were running illegal cargo between some of the bigger habitats its a common practice once that Terra has requested we try to stop. A few months ago two of the bigger families that run the belt and the colonies near Saturn came into conflict over something by the time the SLDF patrol craft arrived there was weapons fire being exchanged by both sides in the colony and in space around it.â€
“So the Belters themselves use weapons in the field?†Archer said “their issue isn't that we caused a navigation hazard or caused a threat to their people they want the SLDF to back off. ComStar let them away with running the Belt colonies without any sort of authority they just don't like us moving in.†Archer concluded “now using naval weapons when we don't normally that's maybe something the Tamarind's CO needs spoken about and any other ships in the Terra system I don't want capital weapons fired off just because we have them. At the same time however the Belters need to know we're here and we're not going away. I won't do an Amaris and send over the Caspers but they need to reign their necks and cut these armed conflicts down, some law and order is all that's needed.â€
Archer said knowing how he was going to answer the investigation committee already he wasn't going to hang the Tamarind's CO out to dry but neither would he get off scotfree. At the same time the Belters needed to be on notice the SLDF wasn't going away. “Take me to Terra Navid before I decide we're going to tow that thing back with us†he said looking at the Enterprise once last time. When he arrived on Terra he planned to convene a planning group David Natale wanted to leave a lasting legacy on the SLDF and Archer Christifori planned to find out if they could do it.
Trial of Position
Sigma Galaxy Command, New Gascony
Nova Cat's Den, Periphery
9th October 3092
Stepping away from his defeated opponent Elson West looked to Clan Nova Cat's Oathmaster Sonja Rosse. “Oathmaster, before you lays Roj Deleportis†he said glancing over his shoulder at the man Elson guessed with his internal injuries the MechWarrior would not likely survive to accept a lower rank. Roj Deleportis had called for this Trial of Position he was an old man and the changes their Clan had gone through were too much for him to change with. Elson did not know if he wanted to change with the Clan but he did know that he wished to command more than a mere Cluster. “I have defeated him in single combat, I wish to command Sigma Galaxy and all her warriors.†He said around him were members of that Galaxy and his own 449th Assault Cluster.
“You have proven yourself in combat Elson West. Sigma Galaxy is yours to command.†The Oathmaster said after a moment she seemed distracted no doubt thinking of her own Grand Melee competition that was approaching however Elson cared little for her troubles he now had the command he wished for, an entire Galaxy. Now he could make the changes to Clan Nova Cat that he knew were needed and take the steps that he knew his Clansmen wanted.
Liberation Mission
Andurien, Republic of St Jamis-Liao
15th October 3092
After months of allowing the Republic of St Jamis-Liao to remain in existence Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao leads three WarShips including the CCSS Chancellor's Pride into the Andurien system. From the Thera-class Carrier Dao-Shen watched as all three of the Republic of St Jamis-Liao's were destroyed by aerospace fighters while his own CCSS Talon Zhan had been destroyed by the WarShip's counter fire. Now that the Capellan Confederation controlled the space around the world Dao-Shen Liao planned to lead the Red Lancers, Dynasty Guard and Death Commandos to the world personally.
Landing on the planet piloting an experimental new Agrotera BattleMech Dao-Shen Liao flexed the arms of the fifty ton design opening up a communication channel “I am Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao, I reclaim this world as a Capellan Confederation holding.†He broadcast across the planet his regiments were fighting but Dao-Shen wished for one victory over one particular man. According to the Maskirovka his target was somewhere in this area and he knew the man could not ignore a direct challenge. “Come out Cameron Victor St Jamis-Liao, you wish to prove you are good enough to lead the Capellan Confederation defeat me and prove your worth.†He said taunting his opponent. “None of my Mechs will engage yours until one of us is defeated.â€
Surprisingly enough Maskirovka had been completely correct on Cameron St Jamis-Liao's location within a moment a group of Mechs began approaching the lead was a white and red Men Shen OmniMech five tons heavier than his own. Dao-Shen Liao watched as his enemy approached looking at the other designs each was painted with the lower half black and the upper half red. “You must think I am stupid to believe a Capellan Chancellor of Canopian Blood?†Cameron St Jamis-Liao replied “challenging me like we are part of the Clans?â€
“Drawing you out to die†Dao-Shen Liao whispered his Mech's head mounted Target Acquisition Gear (TAG) had been locked on the approaching Mechs as soon as he had seen them approach “fire†he commanded opening fire with his own particle cannon and lasers on the Men Shen moments after his first volley fired Cameron returned fire with his own Mech's missile and pulse laser systems as did the Mechs with him however Dao-Shen's TAG had done far more than mark his target launching into the air Dao-Shen cleared the immediate area as six Arrow IV Artillery Missiles slammed into the enemy OmniMech and the Mech's around it decapitating the enemy BattleMech killing Cameron Victor St Jamis-Liao. Not allowing the Chancellor the satisfaction of victory from all around the area more Mechs charged into the battle each painted in the same black and red camouflage of those who had accompanied Cameron. Now Dao-Shen Liao found his trap had been sprung on him he wasn't sure if he would escape it. “All units engage new enemy targets†Dao-Shen said launching his Mech into the air again firing his particle cannon at the enemy targets. The Agrotera's jump jets and partial wing carried the Mech over three hundred metres from the enemy lines.
Across the combined lines of the Capellan line BattleMechs were dying however so were the enemy units. Artillery fire continued to land all around the area while artillery deployed mines were being flagged up on Dao-Shen's sensors. More missiles and laser fire filled the air around his Mech as the Capellan Chancellor turned his guns on another enemy Mech dodging enemy fire as he went. Dao-Shen could see the Black and Red Mechs were retreating as his forces engaged them. “All forces all them to fall back, secure Cameron St Jamis-Liao's Mech.†The Chancellor ordered allowing the enemy force to disengage Dao-Shen moved forward slowly returning to the Men Shen looking at the burnt out cockpit the Chancellor hoped that there was enough to positively identify its pilot as Cameron St Jamis-Liao and end this rebellion.
The battle raged across the planet of Andurien for several more hours before the remains of Cameron St Jamis-Liao's forces were defeated. On the other worlds of the Republic of St Jamis-Liao the other worlds fell rapidly as news of Andurien's fall and the death of their leader spread. The DNA from the fallen pilot was identified as the rogue prince after extensive testing ordered by Dao-Shen Liao who then publicly shared all the data to put down any conspiracy theory's about his survival. No sign of the strange black and red Mechs were seen again on Andurien having disappeared during the fighting interrogations of the surviving St Jamis-Liao forces confirmed that these troops were not one of the defensive unit formed by Cameron St Jamis-Liao.
Following the Capellan Confederation victory and the reestablishment of a full border with the Oriente Protectorate the Free Worlds League faction issues a message to Sian calling for the seized Free Worlds League worlds of the Duchy of Andurien to be returned to the Free Worlds League, a request that is promptly ignored by every Capellan official who sees it.
Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Repair Dock
Ruins of Gabriel, Odessa
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
21st October 3092
Although there were plans within plans to create new shipyard facilities in the Lyran Commonwealth Coventry planned to build its own yards while the Isle of Skye wished yards of their own as well the Port Sydney Shipyards run by Ioto Galactic Enterprises continued to be the only shipyard in operation within the Lyran Commonwealth. As part of the Wolf Accords signed by Archon Peter Steiner-Davion and Khan Phelan Kell Clan Wolf (in-Exile) had been granted the rights to repair and rebuild some of the facilities within the Ruins of Gabriel asteroid belt. After almost ten years of hard work the Exiles had finally accomplished the first part of their plan a repair facility capable of servicing their remaining WarShip fleet. There were plans by the Exiles to expand the facility to be able to construct new vessels for themselves or to sell to the Lyrans for further resources but for now the Clan was content with being able to begin the long process of servicing their vessels starting with the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, Full Moon, which had hung in defence of the facility during its construction. The Wolves plan was for each of the Clan's remaining five WarShips to be maintained their over the next three years.
Oathmaster's Grand Melee Aftermath
New Barcella, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
26th October 3092
Sonja Rosse laid on the hospital bed inside the medical facility on New Barcella she had been dragged from her Shadow Cat OmniMech after defeat in the Oathmaster's Grand Melee the day before. According to the doctors she had a severe concussion and her leg was broken in three places and would take three weeks to heal even with the best treatment. As she lay on the bed a familiar figure approached “My Khan†she greeted her father officially.
“Star Colonel†he replied using her military rank she had been defeated in the Grand Melee and was no longer Oathmaster. “Your defeat was unfortunate. Once you recover I have a position for you within Delta Galaxy to allow you to... adjust†he said he was offering her an out from her current position, a Star Colonel without a command. Although she appreciated the gesture she knew she needed something different.
“Neg, sir I lost the battle but I lost what it means to be a Nova Cat as well. I request permission to undertake a Vision Quest.â€
“Of course†Khan Rosse said quietly “you may go wherever you wish, I will inform the Oathmaster of your choice†he said she saw his flinch as he spoke he was unhappy with her defeat although he would not say so.
“I wish to take it outwith the Nova Cat's Den, I believe there is a trade mission to Detroit leaving in a few days?â€
“Aff but with your leg as it is I do not think you are fit to travel.†Canin pointed out her entire leg was currently frozen in place by both drugs and a flexicast as her body began to repair itself. She wouldn't be walking for weeks.
“It is a five week trip to Detroit my Khan I will heal during that time and be more mobile in the micro-gravity than on a planet.â€
“You are sure you wish to leave so soon Sonja, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, my Khan, I need time to think re-find my spirit. I lost the Grand Melee because I lost my inner Nova Cat.â€
“As you wish†Canin Rosse answered “I do not have another available Shadow Cat for your use, your Mech was not salvageable from the battle.†He explained, that was a blow she had hoped to take her OmniMech with her “I do however have a Shadow Hawk IIC that lacks a pilot.†He explained the second line BattleMech was old, almost as old as Clan Nova Cat, but it would be better than nothing.
“You have my gratitude my Khan.â€
“I wish you luck†he said turning away she knew that this would be the last time she would see him “speak with your mother before you leave Sonja, she will want to see you.â€
“Aff, father†she whispered “I will ensure that I do that.†She said she knew her father allowing her to leave meant he had accepted that he would likely not see her again he had his hardened Clan trueborn warrior look on one he used to display when he was disappointed in her and her brother when they were younger.
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Into November
Assassination
Wolf City, Arc Royal
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd November 3092
On Arc Royal Phelan Kell dies following an examination it is confirmed that he was poisoned. As the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Watch begin a massive investigation the Clan Wolf (in Exile) Touman begins to lock down the Arc Royal system. Two days after the death of Phelan Kell Loremaster Patrik Fetladral becomes the new Khan of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) after winning a Trial of Position while the Watch identify a member of the Ghosts of the Abyss mercenary command as the culprits for the assassination. Unfortunately for the Wolves the Ghosts of the Abyss left Arc Royal system the day before Phelan's death calls for a Trial of Annihilation against the mercenary command raise within the Clan as the MRBC declares them rogue and the Lyran Commonwealth cancels their contract.
A week later on the 10th November Evan Kell is named as the new Loremaster following the sponsorship of saKhan Ranna Kerensky. With a new Khan and Loremaster in place a call for Trial of Annihilation against the Ghosts of the Abyss, regardless of the consequences, is passed by the Clan Wolf Council. saKhan Ranna Kerensky fights for and wins the right to lead the party that will destroy the rogue mercenary command. By the end of November the Wolf Spider Keshik have left Arc Royal in pursuit of the Ghosts of the Abyss command, with the freedom of the Lyran Commonwealth guaranteed by the Wolf Accords no Lyran forces attempt to stop the Wolf Spider Keshik or the Arc Royal, the Coventry-class Corvette, assigned to them as escort.
Mercenary Deployment
Outreach, Star League Protectorate
9th November 3092
After a brief spell without a Contract the Wolf's Dragoons Alpha Regiment commanded by Colonel Sean Dorran and the WarShips Athena and Beowulf agree a three year contract with the Draconis Combine helping shore up the Combine's defences. The Beowulf had been badly damaged during an attack on Outreach by a Rogue M5 Casper Drone. As part of the contract the Beowulf will be repaired at the Dieron Shipyards by the Draconis Combine. This also gives the Combine an opportunity to properly look at the Block II upgrade of the Congress-class Frigate and program their naval identification systems.
Trade Mission
Varnay Anchorage, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
15th November 3092
The arrival of the Sea Fox WarShip Bloodletter, a Carrack-class Transport, at the Nova Cat's shipyards in the Varnay Anchorage system would normally not instill an immediate response from the Nova Cat defenders however recently the two Clans had not been on the best of terms. On top of that the Nova Cats had moved the Sacred Rite, their recently captured Nightlord-class Battleship, to the system the Battleship was still crippled and under repairs within the system along with three other vessels. Moving over the Bloodletter the Santin West, an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, ordered the Sea Foxes to state their purpose in the system or be classed as hostile and be boarded the Carrack-class vessel was no match for the larger Battle-cruiser on its worse day.
After a few moments the Sea Foxes announced that they were wished to open trade negotiations with the Nova Cats for the AR-15 Multiple Sub-Capital Missile Launcher the weapon developed by the SLDF's Thorin University and the Federated Suns NAIS. The Nova Cat Watch was aware of a recent failed attempt by the Sea Fox Clan to win the technology from Clan Snow Raven in a Trial of Possession and it was widely known that neither the SLDF or AFFS were entirely happy that the Snow Ravens had won the technology let alone be willing to trade it.
The Nova Cats allow the Sea Fox Clan to trade for the missile design however they make the Sea Foxes pay dearly for the technology claiming enough Mechs, Battle Armour and Vehicles in trade to reform the Third Nova Cat Guards Cluster a formation that had not been active within the Touman since before the initial Clan Invasion. With the Sea Foxes claiming the technology the AR-15 quickly spreads to the other Clans through trade with both Clans Ghost Bear and Coyote gaining the technology by mid 3093 while the Wolves and Jade Falcons gain it by the end of 3093.
Taurian Offensive
Taurian Concordat, Periphery
25th November 3092
Launching a paired attack the Taurian Concordat launches attacks on Amber Grove and Euschelus both occupied by the Federated Suns. Euschelus falls within a matter of hours with minimal resistance while Amber Grove fighting continues longer as Federated Suns employed mercenaries continue to resist. When additional Taurian Concordat forces arrive in early December the mercenaries agreed to leave in exchange for being allowed to keep what remained of their equipment surrendering Amber Grove to the Taurians.
Jiminez Mission
Crucis March, Federated Suns
27th November 3092
In an effort to ensure there are no Manei Domini or Word of Blake are hidden within the Federated Suns borders the High Command sponsor Interstellar Expeditions to begin searching the “lost†worlds of the Federated Suns. These planets which were destroyed during the Succession Wars, depopulated through migration or some sort of natural disaster. The Interstellar Expeditions search begins with the Jiminez Mission to the Arcadia system there they find nothing but lethal levels of radiation and long abandoned ruins Interstellar Expeditions continues searching with assistance from the AFFS and hired mercenary commands including the First McCarron Armoured Cavalry.
Royal Wedding, Forbidden City
Sian, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
29th November 3092
To celebrate his victory over Cameron St Jamis-Liao Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao returns to Sian for a victory march. Dao-Shen Liao walks in front of his victorious troops down the central street of the Forbidden City along side his nation's military leader Sang jiang-jun Erin Trinneer. As he reaches the end of the street the Chancellor takes the stand and speaks of the heroism of his troops he also announces that he has married his military leader Erin Trinneer, and that she will now be known as Duchess Erin Liao.
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Finally!!! Had a small case of writers block hopefully updates will improve and have played an obscene amount of Destiny
The End of 3092
Interstellar Expeditions Expedition
Uninhabited system, Periphery
8th December 3092
As an extension of the work being done in the Federated Suns an Interstellar Expeditions team skirted the Federated Suns/Periphery border searching the systems for signs of habitation or of resources that could be useful or profitable. The team was able to travel with little opposition in the area as pirate activity had dropped off severely following the formation of the Nova Cat's Den. Taking advantage the Interstellar Expeditions Invader-class JumpShip JS Mortal Coil jumped from system to system scanning each as it went. Finally it jumped into a system the expedition had named Ganymede they identified two artificial signatures.
Traveling in system two of the Invader's DropShips discovered a pair of ancient Aquilla-class JumpShips, the first JumpShip type, these craft were used during the formation of the Taurian Concordat and although primitive by modern standards the ships would be invaluable to collectors or potentially to the Taurian Concordat as part of the periphery state's history.
Advanced War Training Facility
Thorin, Ecol City
Star League Protectorate
12th December 3092
As part of the continued expansions of the Star League Defence Force's facilities on Thorin the Advanced War Training Facility is added to the University of Thorin. These extensive military facilities bring hundreds of jobs to the world and increase the traffic through its already busy spaceport facilities. With everything that had been spent on Thorin the world had experienced a massive boom and was well on its way to returning to being a jewel for the Star League Defence Force. In an effort to show that it would not only be Thorin that would benefit from the SLDF's presence Commanding-General Archer Christifori directs SLDF planners and construction teams to begin work on building extensive facilities on Muphrid. Thorin and Muphrid had been linked for hundreds of years and having the training facilities on Muphrid would bring prosperity to both worlds. Some of the people on Muphrid are unhappy that their world is being used as a shooting gallery while Thorin benefits from the “cleaner†SLDF facilitites.
Royal Marriage
Regulus City, Regulus
Principality of Regulus
15th December 3092
“...Forever hold your peace†the minister said looking over the gathered guests. Lester Cameron-Jones and Saadia Howser stood facing each other. Initially Saadia did not want to go through with this she had said that her past would catch up with her but Lester had insisted. They had fallen in love while Regulus was under siege now their love had a chance of fixing some of the hurt Regulus and the Principality was feeling.
“I do†Saadia said quietly looking Lester inn the face “I can't go through with this†she said almost in a whisper before rushing off to the side. Lester watched her run then quickly rushed off after her.
“Saadia!†He called rushing into the adjoining room Saadia stood in the middle of the room staring at the exit door her back turned on him. “Saadia, what's wrong?†He asked knowing she had reservations but not realizing they were so strong.
“I can't marry you like this†she said turning towards Lester “I love you but I can't keep lying to you. If we are to get married then I have to be honest... I'm not Saadia Howser†she said tears running down her cheeks “Lester, I'm not even from Regulus, I was born on McKenna†she said naming the world in the Oriente Protectorate “and my name is Cheynov... as in Felipe Cheynov, the Duke of McKenna, I lied to join the Regulan defences, I lied to you.†She admitted
“Do you love me?†Lester asked it hurt to think she had lied to him but if she loved him he cared little.
“I do†she said echoing the words she had used inside the hall.
“Then will marry me?†he asked slowly moving down onto one knee as he'd done before “I love you not the reasons for what you have done.†He said she nodded wiping her tears from her eyes.
“I do†she repeated again answering his question.
“Then we need to get back to our wedding†he said extending his hand to her which she took slowly stepping back into the hall in front of the surprised guests “sorry for the delay.â€
“Problems?†The minister asked
“None†Saadia confirmed
“No†Lester said glancing over the people gathered “but I want to speak first†he said turning towards the crowd “ladies and gentlemen, today I will not be marrying Saadia Howser†he announced glancing seeing Saadia's face change wracked by emotion and worry “instead I will be marrying Saadia Cheynov, daughter of Felipe Cheynov the Duke of McKenna†he announced glancing at her smiling “McKenna and Regulus are now linked by blood. It will be again physically as we are married.†He said turning around Saadia's emotions full of love and admiration for the man she was marrying but there was also a niggling doubt her father may not welcome an invasion from Regulan troops.
Taurian Concordat Offensive
Capellan March, Federated Suns
17th December 3092
Continuing on after their previous victories the Taurian Concordat Armed Forces and supporting mercenary commands attack the occupied worlds of Predition, Dicallus and Grossbach. Like the worlds previously attacked the Taurians find the worlds sparsely defended bringing them back into the Taurian fold without any major problems.
Coventry JumpShip Yards
Coventry, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
18th December 3092
With Clan Wolf (in-Exile) creating repair facilities at the Ruins of Gabriel the Lyran Commonwealth finishes the first stage of their own shipyards at the Nadir Point in the Coventry system. These yards are officially orientated towards the construction and repair of JumpShip type vessels however there are plans within the Lyran Commonwealth to build fully capable WarShip yards within the system.
To officially open these yards and show his support for the yards Archon Peter Steiner-Davion attends the official opening of the yards while his daughter and heir Duchess Jessica Steiner also attends with her newly repaired and modified WarShip the LCS Archon's Pride. The Avalon-class Cruiser heavily damaged fighting the Manei Domini has been modified so extensively it has been reclassified as an Alliance-class Cruiser by the LCAF with additional aerospace fighter bays and the mighty Kraken Tele-operated Capital Missile the LCAF hope this modified vessel will bring new capabilities to their naval forces as well as acting as a testbed for the Kraken within the Lyran Navy.
Unidentified Contact
Terra Firma, Star League Protectorate
25th December 3092
While searching through the wreckage of the Manei Domini and allied ships that had been destroyed in the Terra Firma system SLDF sensors detect a massive radiation surge on the outer edge of the system. When the SLDF patrol craft arrive in the area on the 30th December there is a second massive surve of radiation as the unidentified vessel jumps back out of the system. According to the SLDF's sensors and the size of the radiation surge there is little doubt to the SLDF Analysis that the ship jumping was over two million tonnes or was loaded with a number large DropShips.
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Time for another update and another year...
3093
Sea Fox Proposal, Clan Council
Council Chambers, Tukayyid
Clan Space
8th January 3093
Following the losses incurred by all the Clans in leaving Clan space and fighting the Manei Domini Clan Sea Fox propose building a shipyard in the Tukayyid system. This facility which would be staffed by Clan Sea Fox personnel but all the Clans would be able to use the facilities for maintenance and for the construction of new WarShips. Each of the assembled Clans agree that this facility should be built and completed by the end of 3094.
Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Command, saKhan's Office
Wolf City, Arc Royal
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
14th January 3093
“Are you sure Star Colonel?†Ranna Kerensky demanded looking at Star Colonel Daphane Vickers.
“Aff, saKhan, the assassin was a member of the Ghosts of the Abyss mercenary command who have abandoned their current contract.†She answered Ranna's anger was rising at the thought that a dezgra mercenary force had killed Phelan Kell, her Khan and lover.
“Do we have a heading for them?â€
“Intelligence within the Lyran Commonwealth suggests that they are heading for the Free Worlds League border however they are currently still within Lyran held space the transport carrying them was taking them towards Freedom.â€
“Then we should waste no time. Have the Wolf Spider Keshik prepared to travel and have the Arc Royal move into orbit and be prepared to escort us.â€
“Should we not we inform the Khan?â€
“Patrik Fetladral will be made aware when the time is right.†Ranna said raising from her chair “and he will not get in my way. If he does he will regret it.†She promised.
Uninhabited system
Dead Ground, New Stevens
Star League Protectorate
18th January 3093
On hire with the Star League Defence Force the Bounty Hunter and his team had landed on the dead world of New Stevens. They had been hired to hunt down and eliminate all the remaining Manei Domini within the Star League's claimed worlds. Moving through the ruined world of New Stevens the Bounty Hunter was protected from the elements by his suit of power armour. Moving slowly over a long ago ruined building he crouched looking over seeing a group of humans standing around a fire beside them were several Mechs.
“Eve!†The Bounty Hunter called from his concealed position “surrender now.†He said below the group began training their weapons on the area around them looking for him. “You cannot win, surrender and face justice.â€
“There is no justice for the Manei Domini†Eve replied her voice almost like a machine “there is only victory or death.â€
“So be it†the Bounty Hunter said triggering the concealed TAG laser marking the location “I will meet you on the battlefield†he said before turning and running from the location as quickly as possible just over a kilometre away his lance's Catapult received the laser signal and fired its Arrow IV launcher the missile armed with a Davy Crockett nuclear warhead followed the laser signal to its target while the Bounty Hunter evacuated the area his team had prepared for this and the bounty had been “dead or alive.â€
The missile took almost three minutes to travel the distance from launch to target. Three minutes for the Bounty Hunter to get as far away as possible he knew there was no way that he could clear the blast radius but his suit would protect him from the radiation and if he got far enough away the armour plate would protect him from the blast. Jumping over several rocks he triggered the suit's built in jump jets rocketing nearly thirty metres further from the target zone. On his helmet's heads up display a timer counted down following the expected moment of impact for the missile. Seeing the numbers tick down rapidly the Bounty Hunter cut short his retreat ducking down behind a ruined building getting down as low as he could he watched the final seconds tick down before there was a massive explosion that washed over the area. The Bounty Hunter could feel the temperature in his suit skyrocket for several moments as the heatwave that followed the explosion washed over his position. “One more off the list†he whispered according to his intelligence network Eve had been one of the highest ranked Manei Domini to survive the battle on New Earth how exactly she had escaped the planet was unknown, but there had been dozens of transports in and out of that system trying to track down the source of her escape would likely be a fools errand, the Bounty Hunter believed she had come here to prepare further operations against the Star League Protectorate with whatever survivors she could find.
As the heat began to die down the Bounty Hunter rose from his position “clearance team move in make sure none of them survived.†He communicated before beginning to move again his next bounty would take him into the Lyran Commonwealth, at the very least the travel time would allow his body to recover a little from the recent exercise. He was getting to old for this kind of operation it would have been easier just to have nuked the area... he probably would have done that when he was younger if he was losing his edge retirement would follow... but first a successor was needed.
Border Conflict
Capellan Confederation/Magistracy of Canopus
20th January 3093
An all too brief peace along the Magistracy of Canopus' border with the Capellan Confederation is shattered with the Magistracy of Canopus assaulting the worlds of Vakarel and Gouderak. Included within the Magistracy force is a unit that call's itself Clan MacFeargus a battalion strong mercenary command built around the MacFeargus Clan a family of periphery born scavengers, mercenaries, pirates, scoundrels and carrion crows. Their contract with the Magistracy of Canopus was their first legitimate contract and in their assault on Vakarel they showed the capabilities as a unit with each warrior showing great familiarity with the others in their lances and companies.
Marwynn Design Studios
Dieron, Dieron Shipyards
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
31st January 3093
Following the successes of the revitalized Tatsumaki-class Destroyer, Inazuma-class Corvette and Kirishima-class Cruiser with their “Block II†variants Marwynn Design Studios is hired by the DCMS to create a whole new Class to supplement their naval forces and support the defence of the Draconis Combine.
The New DCMS WarShips are from this thread thanks to Marwynn for posting them
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/the-new-fleet-draconis-combine/msg81611/#msg81611
(http://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/the-new-fleet-draconis-combine/msg81611/#msg81611)
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Star League Court of Justice
Terra, Star League Protectorate
3rd February 3093
After debating their prospective points in the Star League Courts a ruling is made over the case of Federated Suns vs Interconnectedness Unlimited. The Star League Court of Justice rule that the Federated Suns should accept the offer of reimbursement for the damage done to New Syrtis JumpShip Shipyards from Interconnectedness Unlimited and that they should drop all further charges against the Steffelbus family. The Federated Suns begrudgingly agree.
Trade Conference
Portland, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
9th February 3093
Away from the capitals of Fronc and Taurus Protector Erik Martens-Calderon met with Duke Dirk McEvens in an attempt to broker a trade deal. The deal was going well with Erik finding Dirk McEvens very agreeable. As they talked the ground suddenly rumbled heavily under them “what was that?†Erik asked as six guards rushed into the room scanning for danger.
“Sir, we are under attack from an unknown Battalion sized unit.†One of them reported Erik glanced immediately towards Dirk McEvens.
“I know nothing of this†he said as the facility shook. As McEvens' guards had not moved Erik didn't think he knew what was going on.
“Contact the DropShip call in the rest of our people!â€
“We're being jammed!†One of the bodyguards called out Erik stepped forward towards the doors “sir, where are you going?â€
“If this is to be my death then I will see it.†Erik said stepping closer to the doors peering out he could see explosions outside as his BattleMech guards fought off the aggressors. Even from the tiny view that he had Erik could tell that his people were losing their fight. “Give me a weapon†he ordered one of his bodyguards who handed him a rifle. Opening the door slightly Erik stepped out followed by his guards they moved to a small barricade raising the weapon he began to fire on the attacking forces there were vehicles and infantry supporting the enemy BattleMechs which Erik aimed at on either side of the Protector his guards and those of Dirk McEvens took up their own firing positions they had little to no chance of victory but they had to try.
As the Protector's guards fell one by one it looked like four enemy BattleMechs would survive the battle Erik, Dirk McEvens and three guards remained as the last friendly BattleMech fell. As this guardian was destroyed the Protector surrendered himself to his fate laying down his rifle preparing to raise to his feet when another BattleMech flew into battle on a set of glowing jump jets as it landed the Mech fired immediately engaging all four remaining enemy Mechs with short range missiles before opening fire on a single Mech with a combination of pulse and conventional laser weapons. The already damaged target Mech fell rapidly as the pilot of this newly arrived BattleMech expertly dodged away from first an autocannon salvo and then a flight of long range missiles. Cutting back inside the BattleMech engaged again this time with a salvo of pulse laser fire cutting out the enemy Mech's gyro scope knocking it to the ground.
Without stopping the new BattleMech launched into the air soaring over the battlefield firing several flights of short range missiles down on the enemy targets. With one Mech down and the new Mech hunting for targets the remaining enemy Mechs turned and fled unwilling to engage the new Mech in open combat. Erik stood up from behind the wall that had sheltered him to look at the Mech it had barely been damaged during the battle as it turned to face him he noticed on the Mech's left chest armour the insignia of Clan Nova Cat why had the Clan saved him? How had they arrived on this planet? Where were the rest of this Mech's unit? So many unanswered questions but he was happy to see it.
Soon after the pilot had come down from their Mech it was a woman she was escorted into the meeting place her fully enclosed neuralhelmet hiding her face. “Thank you for your assistance, may I ask why?†He asked looking for a sign of the MechWarrior's face she did not answer instead she began to open the catches on her helmet removing it revealing a familiar face “Sonja!†He blurted out immediately “what are you doing here?†He asked resisting the urge to step forward and grab her she had walked out of his life to safeguard his people, now she had walked back in and saved him? Nothing made sense.
“Protector†she said curtly “I am glad to see you are alive and well. I am on a temporary “break†from Clan Nova Cat's service†she explained “the trade ship I was on board took me this far, I had planned to travel to Astrokazsy to search for further Star League-era remains and perhaps re-find myself.â€
“Re-find?†He asked she sounded lost, despondent, not like the confident woman that had fought with him against the pirate forces all those years ago.
“I lost my position as Oathmaster of Clan Nova Cat I was better than the warriors that defeated me but I still lost. I need to find our why that happened so I requested that I be allowed to travel for a time and rediscover the spirit that I had lost.â€
“You have lost none of your skill†he said quietly thinking of the battle he had seen.
“I heard there was a fight and that those involved were pirate dezgra, they were not really a test. I am glad you are well Protector I will now take my leave assuming you have no intention on holding me†she said it wasn't a question. With his reduced guard he wondered if he could stop her leaving by force.
“Don't go†he finally pleaded she looked at him strangely and he immediately realized how bad it had probably sounded “I mean... be a guest of the Taurian people. You said before you would have liked to see more of Taurus come with me.†He suggested “you can rest plan your next move, if you would like you could contact the Nova Cat's Den by HPG, don't walk away so easily.†He suggested for several moments Sonja Rosse remained quiet indicating neither way “give us the chance we deserve...†he said not meaning just his people but also him and her there had been something between them when they had first met now he wanted to try again to capture that feeling.
“Aff†Sonja finally said “I did wish to see more of Taurus and it would provide plenty of options for future travel arrangements, but quit with the infernal contractions Quiaff?†She demanded Erik smiled broadly and nodded.
“Agreed†he said glancing at Dirk McEvens who had mercifully remained silent during this exchange “Duke McEvens, can we please continue these negotiations at a later date for now I would like to return home and care for my wounded†he said attempting not to caste to bad a light on McEvens security arrangements.
“Indeed Protector Calderon, I too would like to see to my wounded and the interrogations of who was responsible. Contact Fronc when you are ready to continue these talks. Sonja Rosse I and the people of the Fronc Reaches are in your debt.†He said bowing slightly before leaving the building leaving Erik and Sonja in the room. Soon after they would both be back at Erik's DropShip, with the losses taken by the Taurian bodyguard unit, Sonja's BattleMech easily fitting inside its cargo bay while Sonja was given her own guest quarters. Once all were on board and secure the vessel blasted off the surface of the Fronc world heading towards the JumpShip which would take them to the Taurian Concordat and the next part of Sonja's journey.
Interstellar Expeditions Survey Team Chen
Capellan March, Federated Suns
13th February 3063
Under contract with the Federated Suns the Interstellar Expeditions Survey Team Chen was tasked with scouting the dead Federated Suns Capellan March worlds of Knutdor, Turko, Brabent and Halixmar to search for any sign of recent habitation or relics of the Star League-era which were thought lost during the First and Second Succession Wars.
The survey mission which took a total of nearly three months with nothing of note found on Knutdor, Turko and Bradent. Halixmar was a different with nearly twenty thousand inhabitants hidden in a series of bunkers built into a mountain range included among these are an entire infantry regiment who begin firing hand held Short Range Missile Launchers and hand weapons at the Interstellar Expeditions DropShips as they descended to the ground. Attached to the Interstellar Expeditions unit is The Alpha Team a rogue SLDF BattleMech lance that had turned mercenary despite still being hunted by their former superiors. Instead of launching a blitzkrieg against the infantry forces The Alpha Team rapidly replaced their Mechs missile and autocannon munitions with non-lethal ammunition and moved out. With a combination of smoke rounds, tear gas and rubber munitions The Alpha Team rapidly cut down the infantry forces with minimal casualties leaving only the mountain bunkers.
Unable to convince the bunkers that they meant them no harm the Interstellar Expeditions commanders called in assistance from the MIIO and DMI to forward negotiations. With their assistance direct contact is made with the bunkers one-by-one finding that these were the last remains of Halixmar's population who had lived underground since the First Succession War when the world was nuked by the Capellan Confederation. The MIIO and DMI find that what was then ComStar and then later the Word of Blake had made contact with the inhabitants that they had led the inhabitants to believe that the Federated Suns was long gone under conquest of the Draconis Combine and Capellan Confederation and that ComStar was passing information between hidden worlds that continued to fight the oppressors of the Federated Suns population. A specialist support team from the Star League Intelligence Corps is called in after nearly a month of stubborn resolve from the Halixmar inhabitants who refuse to believe that the SLDF has been reformed or that the Federated Suns still exists. The arrival of the SLIC troopers goes much further to persuade the bunker inhabitants than anything the Federated Suns or Interstellar Expeditions teams presented opening the first meaningful dialogue between the two sides finally bringing Halixmar back onto Federated Suns maps.
The Federated Suns officially announce Halixmar's habituation by descendants of the world's original population in later October 3093 after months of continuous negotiations. They announce that travel to the world and communication will be restricted to that the world wishes as requests for information on the inhabitants stream into information centres across the Federated Suns the inhabitants of Halixmar will also be allowed to communicate beyond their world for the first time in centuries with the construction of a Hyper Pulse Generator however all messages will be screened by the various Intelligence agencies on the planet to ensure no Word of Blake or Manei Domini supporters remain. The Star League Defence Force officially maintains a presence on the world by request of the worlds inhabitants while the DMI quietly remove The Alpha Team from the planet ensuring the SLIC does not capture the mercenary lance as a way of thanks for minimizing casualties during the initial operations on the planet.
Principality of Regulus assaults
Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
21st February 3093
As if to prove a point that McKenna would be linked to Regulus not only spiritually due to Lester Cameron-Jones marriage to the heir of this world's throne with a heavy assault on the worlds of Tiber, Sophie's World, Avior and Emris IV. Despite a heavy defence from the Oriente Protectorate all four are lost in eight weeks of fighting. The Regulan victories also put them two jumps from the system of McKenna despite Oriente's best efforts.
St Jamis-Liao Purge
Capellan Confederation
27th February 3093
Within the Capellan Confederation's borders on more than a dozen worlds the Maskirovka begin a purge of all known and suspected supporters of Cameron St Jamis-Liao beginning on those worlds that were once held by the rogue noble but also expanding to the entire Capellan Confederation. By the end of March 3093 nearly six thousand citizens are held in interment camps spread over the worlds of the former Republic of St Jamis-Liao this detention, interrogation and more often execution continues on dozens of worlds across the Capellan realm.
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Bonus Time
The Unity-class Frigate
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/unity-class-frigate/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/unity-class-frigate/)
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Nice.
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Due to the events of this month if anyone would like an up to date map send me a PM.
Invasion
Clan Occupation Zones
Inner Sphere
1st March 3093
In an event mirroring the original Clan Invasion the Hell's Horses, Wolves and Ghost Bears are hit from behind by an enemy identifying themselves as The Serpents. These forces refuse communication with the defending Clan forces instead they attack and kill everyone who strikes against them as more than a dozen worlds fall in a matter of days.
On March 9th Khan James Cobb dies in battle Oberon V fighting against forces positively identified as elements of Clan Star Adder. The Star Adders overrun the Hell's Horses defences quickly eliminating two Clusters of ground troops and a Hell's Horses WarShip, the Red Talon, at the Nadir Point.
By March 14th “The Serpent Line†as it becomes known among the Clans has engulfed seven Rasalhague Dominion worlds, four Clan Wolf worlds, and ten Hell's Horses worlds as the Clans struggle to counter the attacks from beyond the periphery. Included among the attacking forces are confirmed units of the Steel Vipers, Star Adders and Cloud Cobra Clans none of which are willing to communicate with the defending forces with these new invaders there is a report of civilians traveling with them. As the Clans struggle new weapons see the first taste of battle as the Hell's Horse Clan rush the Baraq Fast Battle Armour into service.
Counter-attack
Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
14th March 3093
A counter-attack by the Oriente Protectorate against the invasion by the Principality of Regulus gets bogged down on the worlds of Avior and Emris IV invaders deeply dug in around critical positions across the planet. Unable to make any headway the Oriente forces are forced to retreat back with the Protectorate's borders.
Trial of Annihilation
Freedom, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd March 3093
The Wolf Spider Keshik under the command of Clan Wolf (in-Exile)'s Wolf Spider Keshik had tracked down the Ghosts of the Abyss to an abandoned warehouse on the world of Freedom the JumpShip they had been traveling with had needed to refuel unable to find additional transport the unit had landed on Freedom staying away from local transport hubs. The Wolf Spider had landed half a world away and were even now traveling only under the cover of darkness to ensure they were not detected by the rogue mercenary force.
“saKhan, this is wrong, we need to challenge them to an open battle Quiaff?†One of her warriors complained.
“And their way of killing Phelan was right?†Ranna snapped angrily “they deserve no honour. We will kill them like the dogs they are. If we find them asleep in there beds then we will slit their throats.†She said she wanted revenge over everything even seeing the disgust in the warrior's face.
“This is not what we were bred for.†Another said “we are Clan warriors we deserve the right to look our enemies in the eye before we kill them.â€
“We will challenge them once we are in range†Ranna conceded “however we will not wait for their answer we will launch our attack regardless.†She said determined
The hours of darkness ticked by quickly just before daybreak they entered weapons range of the warehouse beside it the mercenary's DropShip waited silent. “This is saKhan Ranna Kerensky to the Ghosts of the Abyss you killed our Khan mercenary Dezgra. You will now die.†She said short and sweet she was just about to command her unit to open fire when she noticed the communication system was still active.
“Little wolf, we have watched you sneak around for days, this spying business is not for you. Goodbye.†The voice said as the DropShip's engines fired and began to lift the ship into the air moments later the Wolf position began to be bombarded by multiple artillery pieces hidden on an overlooking hill. Ranna sat in her Timber Wolf OmniMech as the artillery shells landed all around the fire was inaccurate giving Ranna the time to watch the ascending DropShip.
'The Arc Royal will get them' she thought however as she switched to her direct link with the Coventry-class Corvette she heard several voices including the ship's commander. “...Where the hell did that Aegis come from? Have our DropShips screen us and keep away from that broadside it'll cut us to pieces. What the hell have we gotten into!†He shouted out the Ghosts of the Abyss had no known WarShip support with them previously its presence added an element to it that Ranna had not expected.
“saKhan, bombardment tracks!†One of her warriors called out Ranna looked again to the sky expecting to see the weapons dropping down on her troopers but instead she saw streaks cutting across the sky heading for the planetary capital and primary spaceport.
“Son's of bitches!†Ranna screamed into her microphone “listen to me Blakist scum I will hunt you to my last breath do you understand me end this here and now or you will be hunted to the ends of time!â€
As if as a final insult to the Wolf saKhan the bombardment continued unabated against the area around Freedom's capital for nearly ten minutes before it suddenly ceased. “saKhan Ranna Kerensky to Arc Royal, report your status and the status of the Ghosts. Arc Royal respond.†She commanded
“saKhan Kerensky, the Ghost's DropShip and their WarShip have begun to head for the jump point. We attempted to engage and slow them the but they ignored us as if we did not matter.†The ship's CO reported the Ghosts of the Abyss were toying with them “we have received minimal damage however the damage to Jefferson City appears to be extensive and we have not been able to contact your DropShip.â€
“We will investigate†Ranna said “use your HPG to signal Arc Royal, Skye and Tharkad inform them of what we have encountered and that Freedom will need their help.â€
“Aff, saKhanâ€
“We will secure transport and rejoin you. We must follow them as soon as we are able, they must pay for this.†She said determined switching to the Wolf Spider Keshik's frequency “we will do what we can to help the people of Freedom then we will hunt down the Ghosts of the Abyss and eliminate them by any necessary means.†She said briefing her people unlike before there was no argument from any of her warriors.
SLIC Raid
Oliver, Star League Protectorate
28th March 3093
In the biggest operation ever undertaken by the Star League Intelligence Corps three Battalions of the Blackhearts Special Operations force supported by agents of the Star League Intelligence Corps and the local First Oliver Guard Regiment engage and destroy a Sixth of June terrorist cell. The cell numbering nearly forty men and women had planned to launch a devastating attack on Oliver's government and communication buildings intent on throwing the entire world into chaos. With the tactics and overwhelming firepower employed by the SLDF Special Forces several of the Terrorists are captured alive despite their attempts to activate suicide implants. With the situation on Oliver in hand by the Blackhearts and local forces the SLIC take these captured terrorists off world for further interrogation. According to highly placed sources within the SLIC the SLDF believe the Sixth of June's ranks have swelled in numbers since the formation of the Star League Protectorate and the fall of the Manei Domini.
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So the second invasion starts! looking forward to see what else you got coming from the deep periphery!
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MY MY MY Very Interesting
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So the second invasion starts! looking forward to see what else you got coming from the deep periphery!
Let's just say there are not just half dead Clans out there...
Another update, if anyone is interested I've updated my map for the first and second waves of the Serpent attacks. If anyone would like them send me a PM and I'll email them to you there not the tidiest but they show the picture.
Federated Suns Embassy
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
3rd April 3093
Carrying only her travel bag and one additional work bag Major Duchess Jaylen Davion entered the Federated Suns Embassy to the Filtvelt Coalition for the first time followed by several members of the her DMI Protection detail. Although she was not the Federated heir she was still a Davion and still important to the people of the Federated Suns and so she warranted a protection detail, one that was too small according to some, like her elder brother she preferred that they stayed out of her way.
The Federated Suns Embassy on Filtvelt was not the most grand however it had all the hallmarks of a traditional Federated Suns building with high ceilings, traditional tapestries and sets of armour decorating the walls. Immediately she recognized the man approaching her Ambassador Ryan Masson “Ambassador†she said lowering her bag to the floor saluting.
“Welcome to Filtvelt Duchess Davion.†He said smiling extending his hand “please I'm not military so you don't need to salute.â€
“Thank you for the welcome Ambassador, sir, I prefer to be addressed by my military rank.â€
“Of course†the Ambassador said “Miss Tate will show you to your quarters and help you get settled†he said indicating to one of his aides a young woman in her early twenties.
“Thank you, Ambassador, however once I am settled I will begin my investigation there is a murderer on the loose I don't plan to allow him to remain at large much longer.†She said confidently picking her bags back up following Miss Tate she'd been sent to Filtvelt with specific orders and planned on making sure she was successful.
As Jaylen moved away she was replaced with a far larger built man “Ambassador I am Captain Conner McGarth, head of the Major's security detail, we need to talk about your security arrangements.†He said the Ambassador put on his best diplomatic smile before glancing towards where Jaylen had disappeared off to before looking back at the Captain wondering exactly what he was in for with his new visitors.
Counter-Attack/The Serpents Wave 2
Sigurd, Hell's Horse Occupation Zone
Periphery
11th April 3093
Following a successful counter-attack against The Serpents on Siguard saKhan Jake Kabrinski is named the new Khan of Clan Hell's Horses replacing the fallen James Cobb. Across their Periphery border the Hell's Horses are fighting a losing battle as Manaringaine, Ferris, The Rock and Drask's Den all fall to The Serpents. In the Chainelane Isles Ingvolstand comes under a sustained attack from a Serpents Cluster with Clan Sea Fox fighting them to a stalemate.
The Serpent's Wave 2
Clan Occupation Zones
Inner Sphere
14th April 3093
Despite Clan Hell's Horses success against The Serpents the new invading Clans continue to push on with their second wave of attacks landing forces on the Rasalhague Dominion world of Thule and the Draconis Combine world of Richmond marking the first time the Serpents had hit a Succession State world. Deeper in the Clan Occupation Zone The Serpents Clans land on the Clan Wolf worlds of Unzmarket, Hohenems, Feltre and Mozirie finding them barely defended with armour and conventional infantry making up the majority of the resistance.
Embolden by these attacks a Serpent force consisting of roughly four clusters of ground troops and three damaged WarShips including the Perigrad Zalman, a Leviathan Prime-class Battleship, launch an attack on Rasalhague finding the Ghost Bears operational Dominion Terminal and the WarShip Rasalhague in system. As the WarShips engage the Ghost Bear defenders the ground forces transports make a run for the planet.
The Rasalhague is able to destroy the Crazy Horse, a Dart-class Light Cruiser, and the King Viper, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, before being cornered by the Perigrad Zalman suffering extensive damage from the modified Leviathan-class Battleship's broadside attack. Rolling to present fresh armour the Rasalhague saves itself from destruction momentarily as the Perigrad Zalman hits the Rasalhague for a second time ravaging the ship killing more than ninety percent of the crewmen on board the ship. Leaving the battleship floating in space the Perigrad Zalman turns and engages the space station. Already damaged the Leviathan Prime takes another beating as the Dominion Terminal's AR10 Capital Missile Launchers and Naval Lasers tear into the rear sections of the ship at long range damaging the propulsion systems the Perigrad Zalman's counter attack is far more devastating all but cutting the space station in half as it thunders past heading for Rasalhague.
Five days after their arrival in system the force consisting of Elements of Clan Star Adder's 191st Adder Guards, Sixty-first Air Assault Cluster and the Steel Vipers Second Viper Guards Cluster smash onto the planet avoiding the Ursine Boatman, a Volga-class Transport, in orbit. On the ground The Serpents are met by the entire force of Clan Ghost Bear's Alpha and Delta Galaxies which had both been recalled to the planet following the first wave of the Serpents attacks. The ten Rasalhague Dominion clusters tear the invaders to pieces in less than forty minutes costing the Bears almost all the warriors in the First Bear Guards Cluster but killing every member of The Serpents attack force leaving the planet to wait as the Perigrad Zalman closes on the planet.
On the Twenty-first April 3093 Khan Bjorn Jorgensson sends word to the closing Perigrad Zalman ordering their surrender and vowing to fight the vessel until every last Ghost Bear has fallen on the planet however the WarShip does not answer instead it continues to close on the planet with only the Ursine Boatman and several assault DropShips in orbit. Two days later the ship arrives near Rasalhague as the Proteus, a Halcyon-class Cruiser, jumps in at a pirate point within the system the Sea Fox vessel from the Sea Fox trade world of Trondheim. The vessel called in by the Ghost Bears jumps in close enough to engage the larger Leviathan Prime-class Battleship with its Heavy Naval Gauss Rifle and array of heavy naval autocannons these hard hitting weapons strike all across the Leviathan Prime's damaged hull. This attack finds crew on-board the ship completely unprepared the Sea Fox vessel continues its assault as nearly two dozen Vanir type DropShips launch their attack on the massive vessel. Hit from all sides the Perigrad Zalman dies a slow death near the Alshian shipyards the vessel's massive superstructure collapsing in on itself under the fire from the defenders finally exploding harmlessly away from the planet.
Declaration, Throne Room,
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
17th April 3093
At a gathering of nearly one thousand in the packed throne room of the Draconis Combine Warlord Minoru Kurita stood in front of the assembled guests, who had been screened by the ISF there was not a single supporter of Vincent Kurita instead they all supported his position as Warlord, instead of sitting on the Coordinator's chair he stood quietly beside it. Between the crowd his son marched towards the throne dressed in his full dress uniform stopping short.
“Hirohito Kurita, today by the power invested in me as Warlord of the Draconis Combine, I name you Gunji-no-Kanrei.†He said making his son the military commander of the nation “you will lead our armies by example and you will eject The Serpents from our soil and ensure that no Clansmen or enemies of the Dragon ever bothers us.†Minoru said he was getting to old to face down the enemies of the Combine alone Akira Kurita was only three years old and Emi, poor Emi, was still missing.
“Hai, your commands will be done†Hirohito replied saluting the Warlord before turning to leave marching back out of the throne room. As he did the gathered crowd applauded politely supporting his appointment another step for Minoru's line to rule the Combine they all knew it the realm had changed.
Shipyard Construction
High Orbit, Gladius
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
19th April 3093
Far from hostile borders the first stage of the Isle of Skye's shipyard was completed although far from being ready to construct new WarShips the facilities were air-tight allowing for the fitting out of the facilities. As Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner and his wife Duchess Hermonie Aten toured the facilities, the new pride of the Isle, the Lyran Commonwealth's newest WarShip the LCS Nondi Steiner, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, hovered watching its presence was for security however it was also a clear sign that the Isle of Skye was still part of the Lyran Commonwealth and under the rule of Tharkad.
Trial of Possession
Valasha, Raven Alliance
Periphery
20th April 3093
On the Raven Alliance/Federated Suns border Galaxy Commander Elson West breathed heavily his Elemental Battle Armour suit was damaged but operational today he had won a victory a small one but a reminder that he was around. Today his units had defeated the local forces and captured a brand-new binary of Goshawk II BattleMechs not the largest of victories but a victory one of which that the Nova Cat's couldn't ignore.
Planetary Announcement
Star League Protectorate
22nd April 3093
It is announced that the populations of Hall, Tall Trees and Saiph have held referendum votes and chosen to leave the Federated Suns and to join the Star League Protectorate. These worlds which have Protectorate systems all around them are allowed to leave Federated Suns control on the condition that the AFFS are allowed to remove their facilities and equipment from the planets or be repaid in full for the losses. The Federated Suns also stipulate that any citizen who wishes to leave these worlds and return to the Federated Suns be allowed to and if they cannot afford the travel expenses that the Star League Protectorate foot the bill the Star League Advisory Council agree to all stipulations.
Over the coming months it emerges that nearly eight thousand people have chosen to leave the three worlds and that the Star League has paid for nearly half of them to travel. It also emerges that the Star League Protectorate had been in talks with the worlds of Terra Firma, Capolla, Elgin and Helen however negotiations had not gotten beyond the leadership of each world. Within the Federated Suns, especially in the Capellan March questions begin to rise on how many worlds the Federated Suns will allow to leave to join the Star League realm and should the Capellans come looking will the defend these worlds as strongly knowing that the Star League is waiting at the side.
Planetary Assault
McKenna, Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
28th April 3093
Leading the Regulan assault on McKenna in 3093 the WarShips RFS Titus Cameron-Jones, the RFS Regulus and the RFS Lester Cameron-Jones, all Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruisers, jumped into the system leading the JumpShips carrying the First Cameron-Jones Home Guard, the First and Second Regulan Hussar Regiments. In the system they found the Oriente Protectorate had prepared for them with the WarShips Santorini, a Thera-class Carrier, and the Lancelot, a damaged Eagle-class Frigate, both supported by a dozen DropShips waiting in defence formation.
What followed was almost like an intricate game of chess the Santorini was able of flooding the system with aerospace fighters however the three Regulan Agamemnon-class vessels remained within close proximity of each other providing cover for each other as they closed on the Santorini. Quickly it became clear to the Regulans that the Oriente crew on board the Thera were intent on avoiding direct conflict. Using their ships and their combined firepower the three Agamemnon-class vessels slowly forced the Santorini and the Lancelot to move out of position allowing the ground forces to make their way towards the planetary surface.
With the Oriente Protectorate WarShips out of position the three elite Regulan ground force regiments stream onto the surface led by Prince Lester Cameron-Jones himself land on the planet rapidly overwhelming and taking apart the Third Oriente Fusiliers and the Fifth Halas Militia with the Second Regulan Hussars similarly destroyed during the heavy fighting. The Santorini and Lancelot remained in the system during the fighting on the ground however when it was clear that the fighting had turned towards the Regulan side the carrier and its escorts assisted in keeping open a cordon so some of the ground forces were able to evacuate however it was not enough to save everyone or turn the tide of the battle instead the Oriente survivors retreated to New Delos surrendering McKenna to the Regulans.
Quickly and quietly on the surface Prince Lester Cameron-Jones ensure that the Duke of McKenna had not survived the fighting having one of the captured Oriente BattleMechs destroyed within the royal residence. Lester then broadcasts to the world that the Duke had been killed trying to broadcast McKenna's welcome to the newly arrived Principality of Regulus forces declaring his wife Saadia as the new Duchess.
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Another bonus
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/dire-wolf-heavy-cruiser/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/dire-wolf-heavy-cruiser/)
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Been on hol so had time and inclination to write
Pirate Attack
Undredal, Filtvelt
Filtvelt Coalition, Periphery
3rd May 3093
Jaylen Davion's investigation into the murder within the Federated Suns Embassy had been going quite well she remarked until the pirates had arrived on the world. The local defenders had done well against the raiders however two Mechs had broken through heading towards the city centre, two Mechs were nothing compared to the combined arms battalion that were bearing down on the city of Undredal.
Although Filtvelt was no longer a Federated Suns world Jaylen Davion still had a duty to protect the Embassy in the city. As soon as she had heard of the pirate attack she had commandeered one of the four BattleMechs based at the Embassy a forty ton Cuirass. Sitting in the cockpit she flexed the BattleMech's right arm which ended in a BattleMech sized sword. She'd heard the Filtvelt communications and knew the raiders had broken through “Colonel LeBeau, I am aware you are busy however you have two BattleMechs heading directly for your government buildings.â€
“Duchess, listen we will mop them up as soon as we break this attack.â€
“I can interdict them before they reach their target†Jaylen stressed
“You are to stay within your bounds Duchess this is Filtvelt soil, Filtvelt's problem.†LeBleau said cutting the communication link.
“Then you can take it up with my father†Jaylen whispered under her breath switching over to the Embassy's channel “Captain Temple this is Jaylen Davion you are to hold by our agreed line with Filtvelt.†She said communicating with the commander of the Embassy guards riding in one of the other Mechs.
“Major, I don't understand we are within the lines agreed and would only leave them in defence of the Embassy.†The Captain replied
“Exactly, Captain McGarth do the same†she said to her bodyguard commander fortunately they were unarmoured at the moment and wouldn't be following in a hurry. Immediately after passing the orders she accelerated her BattleMech forward running it into the city on an intercept course with the the pirate raiders.
Crossing over street after street Jaylen cut in the BattleMechs powerful jump jets lifting it over the buildings of Undredal ahead she saw two BattleMechs tearing through the streets smashing through civilian vehicles cutting a path of destruction as they went. “Pirate BattleMechs this is Major Jaylen Davion you are ordered to stand down immediately or I will use deadly force.†She warned as her BattleMech landed in the streets she didn't stop instead continuing to run her Mech at full speed towards the pirates. As she approached she watched she watched as one of the Mechs one of the Mechs a Centurion opened fire on the street with one of its rocket launchers tearing up the street and a building causing destruction.
“Too late†she said flicking the safety off her Mech's autocannon selecting single fire she pulled the trigger hitting she sent an explosive round straight into the side of the Centurion smashing armour plate it crumbled away from the side of the Mech. Grinning with satisfaction she increased the rate of fire to three shots and pulled the trigger again two shots slammed into the BattleMech while a third tore up the ground near the Mech. The Centurion turned fully towards her she could see that the damage from her autocannon had savaged the Mech's right side destroying the side of the Mech and the autocannon there. Taking a shot with her laser she burned away more of the Mech's protective armour. Just then the second BattleMech walked into view it looked like a Hellspawn but it had been extensively modified twisting her Mech's torso Jaylen opened fire with her Mech's autocannon hitting the Hellspawn with four solid shots a fifth went wide smashing into a parked civilian vehicle destroying it as well. “Oops†she said dodging her Mech to the left she turned back towards the Centurion only to be hit by four flights of rockets from the Centurion which exploded all over her Mech and the area around her. “You only get one shot like that†she whispered charging the damaged Mech spinning the right arm as she went finally swinging the weapon up and then down into the Centurion smashing through the Mech's Roman centurion shaped helmet. The sword cut deep into the BattleMech killing the pilot destroying the Mech Jaylen felt her mech be slammed by a pair of laser blasts as she tried to pull the sword from the ruined Centurion however the weapon would not budge instead she flicked the release leaving the weapon embedded in the remains of the Mech. “You and me left†she said feeling her Mech being burned as several more laser blasts slammed into the Mech an alarm activated as the Cuirass' armour was breached by one of the blasts. “Now, now†she whispered blasting back at the forty-five ton enemy Mech with her laser which opened a hole in the already damaged armour. More laser fire burned over the Cuirass causing more breaches triggering her autocannon again flicking the rate of fire to maximum. Five shots exited the Rotary Autocannon two slamming into Hellspawn one hitting the ground while the others flew into the air uncontrolled Jaylen prayed that the shots didn't land on anyone or anything critical. The Hellspawn fired again with its lasers this time more wildly with only one striking Jaylen's Mech she guessed the pirate pilot was struggling with the heat produced by its lasers. She saw a wave of coolant rush over the Mech as its specialized pods activated immediately knowing that it would be ready to fire again within a few moments she decided to act launching her Mech into the air on its jump jets she fired her laser as quickly as it would cycle burning into the Hellspawn it wasn't enough but she hoped it would distract the pilot as her Cuirass landed she triggered her autocannon which was still on its highest rate of fire four shots left the cannon before the fifth jammed it. “No†she whispered reaching to release the weapon as her shots cut into the Hellspawn two struck the Mech's upper torso while the others struck the arm and leg nothing critical, or at least she thought not, suddenly an explosion ripped through the upper left side of the Mech severing the arm with a massive explosion causing extensive torso damage. “Pesky coolant pods†Jaylen said laughing as the Hellspawn collapsed backwards onto its back not moving the pilot incapacitated as Jaylen stepped onto the Mech with one foot holding it down.
Several minutes later Jaylen realized that the Hellspawn wasn't getting back-up activated her communication's systems “Captain Temple inform Colonel LeBeau that the raiders have been stopped in the city. He might want to send medical teams at least one of the pilots are down and there's extensive damage around here.†She said but within a couple of moments she realized that her communications were not going out instead she noticed several signatures approaching all around her moving back down to the autocannon she tried to clear it again moments later realizing that the jammed round was gone but it was too later all four signatures were virtually on top of her. Glancing at her external screens she noticed the Mechs wore the insignia of the First Filtvelt Guards Regiment, friendlies or at least she hoped so, within moments they had all aimed their weapons at her Mech “I surrender†she whispered she couldn't fight all three of them, she'd wanted to help them.
Eight days later Jaylen Davion was released from Filtvelt Armed Forces lock-up allowed to return to the Federated Suns Embassy and not to step on Filtvelt sovereign soil unless she was leaving Filtvelt forever. As payment for the “damage†she did Filtvelt also seized her Cuirass BattleMech. Within the Embassy Ambassador Ryan Masson allowed Jaylen to continue her investigation but left a permanent note in her AFFS file she also knew her father would likely wish to have words with her when she returned home.
Nagasawa (Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser)
Ingolvstand, Chainelane Isles
Periphery
9th May 3093
While elements of the Snapping Jaws Khanate of Clan Sea Fox engaged forces identified as part of Clan Cloud Cobra's Tongo Cloister the Nagasawa engaged an ancient Samarkand II-class Carrier near the moon of Hermes. The bigger Nagasawa had remained at range to begin with cutting down the ship's aerospace fighters before closing delivering several pinpoint capital missile and laser strikes robbing the ship of its main engines. With the craft unable to leave the Nagasawa had pulled back deploying Elemental Marines all across the ship for six hours the Sea Fox Elementals had fought against the crew deck by deck. Surprisingly the crew, although ready to fight to the death, were unwilling to destroy the vessel to take out the Sea Fox troops moving through the ship. Finally the final resistance was put down by the Sea Fox Elementals capturing the ship, what was left of it, the Snapping Jaws had a new WarShip but one that would needs months to be repaired.
The fighting on the ground had gone far better for the Sea Foxes the Twenty-first Strike and Twenty-eighth Carrier Clusters had overrun the badly maintained Serpent forces within hours of landing on the planet. Several survivors were taken as prisoners by the Sea Fox Clan but OvKhan Brad Hammond stated that they would not made as bondsmen to the Khanate or the Clan.
Expansion
Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
21st May 3093
Nova Cat scout teams land on the abandoned periphery colony worlds of Bartrock and Valois which sat on the border of the Filtvelt Coalition. On both planets the Nova Cats find failed colonies with long abandoned settlements on both worlds there is very little physical damage to either world indicating that they were abandoned due to the lack of support or the lack of enough growth to make them sustainable.
Unlike the previous colonists the new colonies have the full support of Clan Nova Cat with a cluster assigned to the defence of each and Nova Cat naval assets bringing in a continuous stream of supplies. On both worlds the Nova Cats begin searching for natural resources that could be useful for the Clans.
Weapons Demonstration Test
Chateau, Hell's Horse Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
23rd May 3093
Tammy Del Villar was angry she had agreed to Jake Kabrinski's request for her to replace him as saKhan of Clan Hell's Horses with the thought that she would be leading her Clan into combat. Instead her Hell's Stormtroopers, Theta Galaxy, were fighting against The Serpents on St John and Alleghe without her instead she sat here on Chateau preparing to watch another weapons test.
Time ticked by before one of the scientists approached her “saKhan, we are ready.†The scientist said pushing his spectacles back up his nose as he sat down. The man was as stereotypical as any scientist that Tammy had ever met but from what she had heard he was very capable. Moments later she heard the approach of a vehicle an Enyo XR Tank, a test-bed vehicle the Horses had abandoned, Tammy looked over at the scientist questioning the the vehicles appearance. “We did not want to abandon a vehicle that has perhaps some life left in it.†He explained “we have stripped the vehicle of all previous weapons and equipment.†Before she could reply another vehicle moved into position, this one a Chalchiuhtotolin Support Tank.
“A Jade Falcon vehicle? Would one of our own designs not done the job just as well?†She asked she had nothing against the vehicle, well nothing except for the name, she would have preferred to see it on the front lines or as a burning wreck.
“Neg saKhan, this vehicle fits the necessary requirements for this test, it saved us having to waste resources on modifying another vehicle or to take another vehicle out of service.†The scientist explained on the testing grounds the Chalchiuhtotolin crew had not waited for the saKhan's discussion to be complete instead it opened fire with its paired short range missile launchers. The missiles flew through the air exploding on the ground near the Enyo. The Enyo then accelerated through the flames stopping in between the flames.
“WHAT IS THAT IDIOT DOING!†saKhan Tammy Del Vallar screamed raising to her feet “I can suffer the loss of a scientists helper but to waste a vehicle!†She said angrily fire was lethal to a vehicle in the Hell's Horses Clan it was their greatest enemy. She stared at the scientist who looked completely calm. Glancing back at the Enyo Tammy Del Vallar expected to see an explosion or at the least the crew running from the craft however instead there was several puffs of smoke around the vehicle and it looked like much of the flames had gone out, not only that as the Enyo drove forward the saKhan noticed that the vehicle wasn't damaged in the slightest. “How is that possible?â€
“Flame resistant armour much like what is used on our Salamander Battle Armour suits protected the vehicle†the scientist explained “while Mech sized fire extinguishers doused the flames.â€
“Mech sized fire extinguishers?†the saKhan asked as the Enyo pulled alongside the other vehicle.
“Each weigh two tons and draw CO2 from the air around the vehicle or BattleMech.†The scientist explained “useless in a hostile environment or if there is no atmosphere however very effective in an atmosphere like this.†He explained as the second part of the test began with the Chalchiutotolin directly opening fire on the Enyo with its turret mounted flamethrower which burned over the side of the Enyo doing no damage.
“Amazing†Tammy Del Vallar said quietly looking as the Enyo drove off showing little to no damage from its ordeal. “And we can deploy this defence on our vehicle designs?â€
“Aff saKhan, current wheeled and hover vehicles may struggle due to their exposed engine housings however any of our current tracked vehicles we should be able to modify without an issue. This defence will not work with all vehicles and it would not be the ideal defence for every situation but it is perhaps a useful step.†The scientist explained “the extinguishers will work on any of our current or future designs.†The scientist said bringing a broader smile to the saKhan's face.
The Serpents Wave 3
Clan Occupation Zones
Inner Sphere
25th May 3093
The Serpents assaults continue striking at eight further worlds inside the Occupation Zone there is almost a desperation by from The Serpents assaults pushing deeper into the Occupation Zones. Unlike previous attacks The Serpents find a near instant reaction from the Wolves, Jade Falcons and Rasalhague Dominion. The Rasalhague Dominion pushes onto the worlds of New Bergan and Hermagor liberating them both the Rasalhague Dominion troops find exhausted barely ready warriors on Hermagor while the former Star Adder warriors on New Bergan fight to the bitter end.
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New Tech from the AU
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/)
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Good update DC.
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Good update DC.
Glad you liked this next update should help answer some questions I hope some of you have.
I'd also like to thank James Tanaga from the BT site who is continuing to help develop the Fire Mandrill/Rim Collection Storyline
Now to the update - one minor note before you read it. The Virgin Interstellar storyline was written in a long time ago. Following the recent tragedy that has befallen their space project I was tempted to write it out completely however I've decided to keep it in. I hope that this does not offend anyone and if it does please PM me and I will remove it. My thoughts are to the families effected and hopefully it doesn't derail the space projects of today.
DC
Iron Wombs
Hamarr, Sudeten
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
1st June 3093
The fire Clan Jade Falcon Elstars are born from the Iron Womb creches on Sudeten. These warriors bred to be better than any other that had been born into Clan society before now. Designed to be able to fight as any type of warrior this creche is to be trained apart from others under stringent Clan-law. To conceive the warriors the Clan scientists used previously reaved blood houses mixed together to create diversity while regular Clan Bloodname Houses are used as the maternal lines.
Virgin Interstellar Press Release
Terra, Star League Protectorate
5th June 3093
In a press release from their offices on Terra Virgin Interstellar announce that they have lost all contact with the Starliner Two the company's ambitious project to send a WarShip into the Deep Periphery on a “Generation Ship†type meeting without support from the Inner Sphere or faster than light travel. With Starliner One disappearing in 3091 this second disappearance bankrupts Virgin Interstellar with a multitude of law-suits by the end of 3093 the company's assets have all been seized by the Star League and various courts.
Terrorist Attack
Wiedergeburt, New Earth
Star League Protectorate
6th June 3093
Less than thirty seconds after taking off a Rose-class Cargo DropShip explodes showering the Wiedergeburt Spaceport with debris killing one hundred-and-forty-two civilians and closing the New Earth primary Spaceport for two weeks. As a Sixth of June terrorist cell attempt to take credit for the attack an SLIC strike team move in and eliminate all fourteen members of the cell.
When questioned by the Interstellar News Network Interviewers on how the SLIC strike team were able to strike down the team so efficiently the SLIC infer that they had been tracking the cell for sometime bringing the wrath of the media down on the SLIC and the SLDF as public anger turns against their would be defenders. Although no rioters take to the street additional security forces are deployed on New Earth to monitor the situation.
Clan Council
Tukayyid, Clan Space
Inner Sphere
13th June 3093
The Khans of eight Clans of the Clan Council took their places around the large nine-sided table as Loremaster of the Clans Chin Cooper rose to his feet “Khans, we face a threat from beyond the Periphery from the units that previously belonged to Clans Star Adder, Cloud Cobra and Steel Viper. They have named themselves The Serpents and refused all communications with our Clans. Khan Bjorn Jorgensson, you called for this Council the floor is yours.†He said taking his chair as the Ghost Bear rose to his feet the large warrior looked around his fellow Clans.
“Five of us have been struck by these Serpents†the Ghost Bear of the Rasalhague Dominion “I propose we bring them to heel and force them to speak with us.â€
“As ComStar did to us?†Bryan Pryde asked “why should we? We are all Clans even if they have fallen from the honour of holding a trial then why should we even talk with them? They are worse than the barbarians of the Inner Sphere†the Khan of the Jade Falcons said “dezgra†he muttered finally under his breath.
“You wish total war Falcon?†Jake Kabrinski challenged “perhaps when more of your warriors are engaged we will see how you go on?â€
“Afraid Horse?†Bryan taunted “my Falcons are worth twenty of these snakes.â€
“Would that be because of your experiments in the iron wombs?†Canin Rosse asked surprisingly there was little jest in the Nova Cat's voice.
“True warrior spirit doesn't need experimentation, Cat, true warriors are the pinnacle of our years of breeding†Nathan Fetladral said proudly “however I do agree with Bryan Pryde our warriors and our technology are superior to The Serpents we do not need to talk.â€
“Perhaps our efforts to end Ulric Kerensky's legacy was a success Quiaff?†Bryan Pryde jested
“The Blood of Kerensky will always run through our Clan. And we will always match you Falcon.†Nathan Fetladral shot back
“Act like a pair of Khans!†Sterling McKenna snapped “this is about lives and honour. Are these people worth our honour and how many lives are we willing to spend?â€
“All of Clan Hell's Horses will fight these Serpents to the end theirs or ours.†Jake Kabrinski said he was a Ghost Bear by birth but now he was fully a Hell's Horses warrior.
“As will the Sea Fox Clan†Hanna Coston said “if they return to the Chainelane Isles we will eradicate them.â€
“Should they attempt to land on Basiliano or any of our other worlds then they will regret it.†Nathan Fetladral said
“We stand with Clan Wolf in our Occupation Zone.†Carl Heller said speaking for Clan Coyote.
“The Wolf and its pet agree I am shocked†Bryan Pryde said sarcastically “we will force them from Apollo and any other world that is within our grasp.â€
“Clans Nova Cat and Snow Raven will support you in your actions.†Canin Rosse said glancing at Sterling McKenna who nodded her agreement neither of their Clans had been effected by The Serpents Invasion.
“Must be the Goliath Scorpion blood you took in making you think we care what you do in the Periphery. This is a fight for the Inner Sphere Occupation Zone somewhere neither of your Clans reached just stay out of our way.†Brian Pryde said angrily looking at the two older Khans the Nova Cats and Snow Ravens were based far from the Occupation Zone even if a splinter faction of The Serpents reached them both Clans had overwhelming firepower in their territory and had fewer threats around them than the other Clans. “I assume we are done here?†He said looking at Loremaster Chin Cooper.
“An agreement has been made by this Council a united front between the Clans of this Council will face and destroy The Serpents.†He said glancing around all eight of them “Seyla†they all repeated in unison. This was not a council of war but it certainly did have some uses with Tukayyid as a neutral meeting ground each Khan could argue with the others without wasting troops and equipment in meaningless Trials of Possession. Unlike the old Grand Council in the Homeworlds each Clan had enough resources in their territories that could last them forever without taking another world there was less desperation now, more strategy and influence to wield.
President's House
Gillfillan’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
15th June 3093
Jerry Able sat in his study watching the newsvid from Arcturus. Earlier, the trial of Cantrelle Sherris, the former Duchess of Timbuktu, had begun. At the moment, a retired political general was explaining to the newscaster how the Collection, a relatively peaceful nation, had taken four Lyran worlds without a reply from the Lyran Commonwealth.
“I doubt we’ll be able to pull off that stunt again for a while papa,†came from his daughter Karen, the commander of the First Rim Lancers CCT who herself sat on the sofa next to him.
“I agree,†added his son Frank, ostensibly on leave from the Second Rim Lancers. “Next time we go to war or even decide to just take a border world, the Lyrans’ll ensure we actually have control over the world rather than assuming so. They won’t buy us cutting off their worlds again and they'll strike back with twice as much firepower as we can bring to bare.†And Jerry well knew the truth in that. While the Rim Collection’s strategy of capturing the HPGs and cutting off communication and then laying siege to the worlds with Titan DropShips at their Lagrange points, capturing any JumpShips that jumped into the system worked remarkably well, it also meant the Lyrans would not fall into that trap again, at least for a long while.
“That is presuming we do have another war with the Lyrans, lil brother,†noted Karen.
“No Karen. Frank is right. We need to be ready for any eventuality. Especially with those Spirits to our Galactic North,†Jerry corrected his daughter. “And that is why I asked the two of here to come here.â€
“And what’s that? Dad,†asked Frank.
Picking up the three folders from the coffee table, he handed one to both of his children in the room, keeping one for himself. As the other two skimmed through the first couple of pages, he continued. “It is of vital importance we reform the Rim Collection economically, military, and politically if the Rim Collection is to survive with threats on every border.â€
Karen, ever the dutiful one, nodded to him, yet it was Frank who spoke after both had skimmed through the proposal. “Dad, you sure we need all this nonsense right now? Putting these kinds of reforms will create chaos and disorder at a time when we need the opposite.†Having finished, Frank guzzled more beer from the bottle he had nursed for the last hour.
Jerry decided not to answer Frank for the moment. Instead he waited until Karen finished going through with her preliminary skimming. “It’s certainly ambitious, papa. I see the need why we need to reform the Rim Collection politically, what with more and more worlds screaming at us to allow them to join the Collection while the President’s Council refuses to discuss further membership to keep power for themselves-“. She was cut off by Frank.
“It’s not just that Karen. Militarily, we cannot protect any more planets. You know it. I know it. And the President’s Council knows it.â€
“Then why did we allow two more planets on our border with the Lyrans membership only days after the Six Week War ended,†Karen rebutted her younger brother. Jerry knew where this conversation was heading and he wasn’t about to let it go there. He heard it enough in council meetings in the last month to not need it here between his children.
He interrupted them. “We are not here to argue about this. Rather, you two are here to sound out on my ideas before I present them to the council.†Seeing them calm themselves down, he waves his hand to Frank. “Frank already told me his opinion on the matter Karen. Now I need yours.â€
Biting her bottom lip softly, Karen leafed through the reforms before deciding to focus on the ones she believed the Rim Collection needed the most. “Reforming the military to include additional ranks is a sure way to earn ire from our clanners, papa. That said, it should be easily doable and is an obvious answer to our need of centering our military leadership.â€
“Easily doable until our pet clanners-,“ Jerry interrupted his son Frank then.
“They are not our pets Frank,†Jerry corrected him sternly, glaring at his son.
“Alright. Easily doable until our friendly, neighborly clanners,†Frank continued undeterred, “decide hell with us. Need I remind you what that clanner woman did to the duchess?â€
“She left her alive. Beaten so severely she needed immediate medical aid to survive, yes, lil brother. But she honored our agreement,†reminded Karen. “So long as we sick to the agreement with them, they’ll stick with us.â€
Jerry concluded the same. “Getting back to the matter at hand, any suggestions on how to handle our friendly clanners, as you put them, Frank?â€
Frank paused to answer his father, obvious in thought. Just as Jerry thought his son wouldn’t answer him, he did. “Maybe make the ranks follow the clan-style leaning we already are is my suggestion father.â€
“I agree papa,†added Karen.
Nodding to both, he had also concluded the same thing earlier when he wrote the proposal. Only reason he didn’t include the idea into the proposal was to see if either of his two closest children would think of it. He was glad both saw the need for it. “Very well. I will amend the proposal to the military reforms to make the new ranking and command systems sound more clan-like. Any problems with the command system I am trying to establish, by the way?â€
Both of his children leafed through their folders until they could study what he had in mind more clearly. “It would depend much on getting your political reforms through papa, but makes sense to use your proposed political districts for the military as well.â€
“Only thing I see that is slightly distressing is that the separate brigades seem to follow the Davion and Steiner models a bit too closely for our clanners, dad,†added Frank. Brigades need to be changed to match the clan-styled system as well. Probably just rename the brigades to galaxies will be enough for the clanners to buy into the reforms.â€
Interesting, Jerry thought to himself, for he did not think about that to be honest. Still, it made complete sense. “What you think, Karen?â€
Karen openly grimaced. “I would worry if I was the Lyrans if their so-called intelligence report that started the war actually had some grain of truth with us leaning more and more into clan teachings. Still, they should know the clanners make up for most of our front-line forces and we have to accommodate the Children of Kerensky. That said I rather not follow clan language laws, thank you very much.â€
“Ditto sis,†Frank added, grimacing as well.
“Don’t look at me, you two. Clan law can stay exactly where it stays now, as far as I’m concerned. And that is within all-clan units and the clan enclaves,†Jerry spoke seriously. After a few moments to gather themselves, Jerry continued the conversation. “What about the political and economic reforms?â€
“The President’s Council will want to protect themselves and keep what power they already have,†Karen supplied. Cutting Frank off before he could speak, she added, “Of course and keep our military from being too stretched until we can afford to protect the proposed larger Collection.â€
“If we dedicate the districts to being about military control, they could buy into it,†added Frank a moment later. “Especially if we somehow keep our present members in some kind of control as well. Perhaps keep them on a ‘special’ advisory board and have your proposed Congress be more of a legislative power, akin to the Marik states perhaps?â€
“Makes sense papa. Allows the primary members to remain important while allowing the new members their say, though you might want to let each district also have membership on this special advisory board as well, papa.â€
For another two hours, the three spoke animatedly with each other on these reforms in detail. The adding of Galaxy Martial to command the former brigades turned galaxies and Star Major to command the former battalions turned supernovas. The Fire Mandrill clan-only units would be kept in their own galaxy as well, just as the Rim Guards and Rim Lancers were to be kept in their own galaxies.
On the political reforms, the three had turned the districts into much more then what Jerry had originally planned. Economically, they had all agreed to continue with what was already underway for the underdeveloped members, and push Clan Fire Mandrill into opening its eugenics program to the Rim Collection. That would be an extremely touchy issue, the three all knew and so decided to merely suggest it for now and not actually push the friendly Clan. They also agreed Clan Fire Mandrill enclaves contributed as another district.
Economically, all three could only agree to continue putting resources into Able’s Glory and to sharing some of the wealth back to the other members. Frank suggested getting a Marik or Lyran shipbuilding company to invest into the Rim Collection, while Karen wanted to use the large Fire Mandrill JumpShip fleet in a manner reminiscent of Clan Sea Fox trade fleets. That was mute until the clan agreed to the suggestion, but Jerry decided to include it into the proposal, again merely asking the powerful Collection member.
As his two eldest children were leaving, he had Karen stay after. Closing the door, he walked to his desk, taking out a newspaper dated a month before and set it on his desk. “Explain,†he informed his daughter as he relaxed into his chair. He didn’t have a need to explain why to her, for the cover page explained it all in bold words, calling for House Able to lead the Rim Collection back to the glory days of the Rim World Republics.
A moment’s silence passed between the two as Karen visibly thought of how to answer her own father. “I thought the other houses and nations would take us more seriously if the Rim Collection was led by one family, father.â€
“I expect this from Frank, Karen. Not from you,†he admonished his daughter.
“I stand by the article sir,†Karen answered back, straightening into a parade stance he had long identified as a defensive reaction to him.
“Very well Karen. Just know this move by you is not what I want, but I won’t stop you and remember not all those Rim Worlds out there are unoccupied. Your ambitions could bring a devastating war on this nation, and it will be all down to you,†he finally answered warning her. By his answer they both knew what he meant. He wouldn’t fight her view with the rest of their family, nor would he stop her from pushing it in council, but he wouldn’t help her with it either. “Dismissed Galaxy Commander.â€
Command Deck, LCS Archon's Pide (Alliance-class Cruiser)
Alarion, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
20th June 3093
The senior officers and crew of the LCS Archon's Pride stood in a circle around the command deck in the middle of the crew stood Archon Peter Steiner-Davion leader of the Lyran Commonwealth. Beside the Archon stood Admiral Urs Burgdorf, the ship's commander, and Leutenant-Kommodore Jessica Steiner, his daughter and the ship XO, “Ladies and Gentlemen, today you lose one commander†the Archon said quietly glancing at Urs Burgdorf “your Admiral has chosen to do what many who serve our nation have been unable to and retire. You are and those like you across our Commonwealth are the ones who ensure that people can make that choice when their service comes to an end.†He said “and I thank you for that. Our nation has many threats and this ship may be called to defend it to do that it will need a new commander.†Around the room eyes turned towards Duchess Jessica Steiner “today Jessica Steiner is promoted to the rank of full Kommodore and your new commander.†The Archon said bringing a small smile from the Duchess “I know you will serve her as you did Admiral Burgdorf and make our nation proud. Atten-sion!†He called out and everyone saluted their new commander.
Star Adder attack
Kowloon, Incaras Theatre
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
26th June 3093
On the world of Kowloon four damaged DropShips two Overlord Cs and 2 Sassanids land. On board one of DropShips was the former saKhan of Clan Star Adder Dante Truscott the most senior survivor of the Star Adder Clan. He hated the position that his once proud Clan was in the Society had destroyed them as badly as they had the remaining Fire Mandrills, and abandoned Ice Hellion survivors and the reborn Burrocks, who ilKhan Brett Andrews had finally accepted as a Clan to keep the Society happy. Day after day they had “Seconded†more troops to their “Special†projects or released their newest “population control method†in an attempt to create the best warriors and the most obedient civilian caste. For the most part the remaining Clans had been able to remain as viable entities giving the Society what they needed but remaining independent of them the final straw had been the assassination of Khan Hannibal Banacek. Ignoring the ilKhans calls for calm the Star Adders, mad with rage, assaulted the Society on a dozen of the already ravaged Homeworlds.
The resulting fighting caused severe hundreds of thousands of deaths among the civilian population as the remaining “free†Steel Vipers and Cloud Cobras joined the Star Adders in their fight against the Society. As the Clans continued to burn warriors and lose equipment the Society seemed to have an unending legion of warriors to call on. After three months of heavy fighting the remaining Clans had to admit that they could not defeat the Society and decided that an en-masse evacuation of their territory was needed to ensure their survival.
Fighting against various Society attacks the three Clans evacuated the Homeworlds joining together in deep space with as many civilians and resources as the three Clans had been able to evacuate. Together in the darkness they had formed The Serpents which ilKhan Brett Andrews would take direct control over some had called for them to head off into deep space form a new Homeworlds, others had wanted to conquer one of the known deep space societies the Nueva Castile or the Hanseatic League however both were dismissed as being too close to the Society. Others had called for the destruction of those who had created and abandoned them to the Society the other Clans.
Anger of the remaining warrior caste had driven The Serpents to attack the Inner Sphere Clans anger and desperation but now even that was failing the ilKhan and his great flagship were gone. The Clans were turning the tide on the Serpents just as the Inner Sphere had turned the tables on the invading Clans annihilating the Smoke Jaguars, driving the Star Adders from the Inner Sphere and forcing the Clans to give up a joint invasion. Dante Truscott knew that The Serpents would fail so he and some of his closest warriors had carefully moved resources and like minded warriors into the same units after successfully leading The Serpents' attack on The Rock they had jumped away claiming to be moving to the next target instead meeting with the Star Adder damaged WarShip Elysium, a Whirlwind-class Destroyer, and the four civilian carrying JumpShips with it.
The six jump capable ships had jumped away from The Serpents and would not be returning. Landing on Kowloon the two Supernova Trinaries culled from about six different former-Clan Star Adder and Cloud Cobra units attacked several supply warehouses around on the planet looting food, water, clothing, spare parts anything that they could use. The local militia fought valiantly however they could not break the attackers line instead the Star Adder force remained in position until all the supplies had been loaded then they abandoned the planet and the system before the Lyran Commonwealth could respond disappearing into the Periphery.
Family Wing, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th June 3093
Major Jaylen Davion walked into the family wing of the Davion Royal Palace dropping her travel bag into her room before walking into the main family. Her father was sat in the room on his favourite chair according to him it had been her grand-father Hanse Davion's favourite chair as well. He was glancing up over some reports as she entered and sat down then looked back down “welcome home, Major†he said quietly not looking at her.
“Thank you, sire†she said she said using his position as he had used her rank.
“A successful trip to Filtvelt?â€
“I got my suspect if that's what you mean? And a confession?â€
“Anything else of note?†He asked glancing over a small smile playing on his lips “perhaps you borrowed a Mech, violated international law, caused a diplomatic incident and cost the AFFS a brand-new BattleMech, and got yourself banned from ever visiting Filtvelt again?†He said running off the charges.
“Possibly some of that†Jaylen said “however I did what I believed was right in my investigation and in the defence of Filtvelt!†She snapped “and I would do it again†she said raising back to her feet.
“Good†her father said putting down the paperwork “you're a Davion you should do what you think is right and damn the consequences. Everyone else around the Inner Sphere think that's what we do.†He said smiling as he raised to his feet “I'm also glad to hear that your combat training wasn't entirely wasted, two kills single handily on unfamiliar terrain, an impressive showing.â€
“You're not angry I ignored a sovereign state's wishes and could have caused a major diplomatic incident?†Jaylen asked wondering if she'd gotten away with this.
“I'm furious†he admitted “you broke every rule that I and your mother taught you. You're going to have to work extra hard to win that trust we placed in you back.†He said she represented his family and had let him down he wasn't going to let her off completely “which is perfect...â€
“Perfect?†She asked working extra had did not sound perfect to her.
“It will help you pay off the debt you owe the AFFS for the lost Cuirass.†Victor said sitting back down picking up his reports. For a moment Jaylen though that he was joking however when her father did not speak further she knew he wasn't.
“Sir, on a Major's salary you cannot be serious!†She said realizing it would take her years of service to pay off such a debt.
“Oh I am Major†he said emphasizing her rank “the next time you do something in someone's back yard think before you act.†He said “what you did was brave and from what I have read very well executed but Filtvelt didn't want the help.â€
“Those Mechs could have murdered the entire parliament.†She protested
“Yes, beheading the Filtvelt Coalition and turning those worlds back towards the Federated Suns fold.†He said he'd already considered the consequences of her not acting, he knew that Filtvelt probably had to, he also knew that the periphery nation probably had their own ideas on who equipped and sent those pirates and what it must have looked like for a Davion to save them. “Filtvelt is a proud nation they stepped out of the protective fold of the Federated Suns and they have prospered.†Victor explained “our relations with them have been good but you riding in on a silver knight and saving them from doom has just reinforced the idea in their population that House Davion is always watching and ready to move with or without their permission. You did the right think Jaylen and I'm damned proud of how you preformed and your motivations but I hope to hell it doesn't cause us problems down the road.†He said looking up at his daughter Jaylen realized what he was saying and knew there was plenty she could have done instead but she had done what she thought was right and done well at it she wasn't going to apologies for it.
“Is that all sir?†She asked formally
“Yes, welcome home, your mother should be back shortly I'm sure she will be happy to see you her and Sarah are attending an event in Avalon City.†He explained naming Jaylen's younger sister who served in the Federated Suns government safely away from trouble. Jaylen didn't care, as her father said she was a Davion, she would do as she thought was right and damn the rest of the Inner Sphere including Filtvelt. Marching out of the room she returned to her own bedroom closing the door behind her Victor Steiner-Davion remained on his chair reading the reports smiling as he did she was his daughter alright he thought thinking of the trouble he and Kai Allard-Liao used to get up to. Maybe just maybe he'd been a little harsh on her he was sure that Danai would have something to say when she returned Jaylen was after all as much her daughter as she was his daughter and when it came to their children Victor knew that saying or doing something without Danai would not go down well.
-
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate, Lyran Commonwealth
8th July 3093
On the world of Solaris VII the Twenty-first annual Star League Games was being fought in the massive Star League Stadium. It had been a long fought battle but now only three competitors remained one from the Lyran Commonwealth, another Clan Sea Fox and the last from the Draconis Combine each had fought well and the crowd had loved the battle.
Outside the stadium there was another entirely different battle being fought as Clan Wolf (in-Exile)'s Wolf Spider Keshik were engaging the Ghosts of the Abyss mercenary command who were repairing their damaged equipment and pick up supplies from the Game World. The clansmen had ignored all civilized engagement rules and chased the mercenaries into the city turning Solaris City into a massive arena as BattleMechs fought for dominance.
In a running battle the two forces had caused heavy damage to each other and Solaris City. SLDF peacekeeping forces from the First and Third Royal Battle Armour Military Police Battalions were moving in on all sides clearing out civilian forces. As the rogue mercenary command turned away from the Wolves they ran straight through the First Royal Battle Armour smashing the scattered command as it attempted to assist civilians caught in the cross-fire. Desperate to chase the mercenaries the Exile command initially also engaged the SLDF Battle Armour force however after a few exchanges saKhan Ranna Kerensky brokered a truce with the SLDF commander of the Third Battalion bringing peace to the streets. Unfortunately this truce allowed the remaining Ghosts of the Abyss forces to slip past SLDF customs overrunning a cargo DropShip which they used to slip into the civilian traffic around the planet.
Stuck on Solaris VII for three weeks the next that saKhan Ranna Kerensky hears of the Ghosts of the Abyss in a Star League Intelligence Command report delivered to Solaris that states the Ghosts of the Abyss have entered the former Free Worlds League. The SLDF commander on Solaris shares this information with Ranna in an attempt to show their pursuit is meaningless however it only drives Ranna on. Lifting off of Solaris VII she orders the Arc Royal, her attending WarShip, to return to the Clan while taking the remains of her unit by civilian JumpShip into the Free Worlds League.
The Serpent's Wave 4
Clan Occupation Zones
Inner Sphere
14th July 3093
Leaderless since the loss of the Perigrad Zalman The Serpent's smart move would be to hold their positions and dig in however this is a strategy as alien to The Serpents as it was to the Clans during the initial invasion. Not used to sitting on the territory they hold the Serpents attempt to break out of their held territory launching attacks on Somerset and Bone-Norman in the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone and Harvest in the Hell's Horses Occupation Zone. On each they find battle hardened front-line units of both Clans which completely destroy the four Clusters sent against them forcing back their support units.
With these reversions and the defence of Rasalhague behind them the Rasalhague Dominion liberate the worlds of Thule, Damien and Holmsbu liberating all three capturing nearly six throusand civilians as The Serpents defenders buckle under the concentrated attack of several Rasalhague Dominion clusters. With Clan Wolf showing little interest in the worlds it had lost to The Serpents the Rasalhague Dominion's First and Second Polar Bear Assault Clusters of Epsilon Galaxy land on Skallevoll liberating it to from the Serpent's forces claiming the former Wolf world for the Rasalhague Dominion.
Naval Trials
New Barcella, Varnay Anchorage
Nova Cat's Den, Periphery
21st July 3093
Following years of fighting with little replenishment the Nova Cat Naval Arm had looked in better shape. The Drake-class Corvette had been the first step in the Nova Cat's planned revival filling gaps in the Naval Stars where lighter units had been lost. The next step was the launch of a larger class the Liger Strike Carrier with the final design weighting in at over nine hundred thousand tons.
Capable of carrying one hundred and fifty aerospace fighters and four assault DropShips the ship's task was to provide aerospace fighter support and additional firepower where any of the Clan's units required it. Clan Nova Cat's Khans and senior Star Admiral planned for one Liger-class vessel to be assigned to each of the Nova Cat's Naval Stars while another would be directly attached to the Clan flagship the Severn Lervoux. At the same time Nova Cat scientists and design teams began planning a new Destroyer-class vessel based on an updated Star League-era Lola III design intending on having it fill out the Clan's Naval Stars and Escort formations going forward.
To accommodate and support these changes the Nova Cat's also opened aerospace training grounds in the Varnay Anchorage and Fletcher's Feast systems while doubling all aerospace sibkos and intensifying training programs to ensure the Nova Cats were ready for these new ships. As the Liger and the Tiglon were new ships to the fleet one was sent to the Varnay Anchorage system while the other was kept within the New Barcella system their crews told to ensure that both vessels received full shakedown cruises before receiving assignments.
Junkyard Dogs Scout Patrol
Koniz, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
23rd July 3093
Lieutenant Brian Coulson walked his Timber Wolf OmniMech through the heavy trees six kilometres north of Koniz capital Ogstrenburg. They were on a scouting/raiding mission intended on probing Jade Falcon defences for weaknesses hidden in the mountains to the north was their DropShip a modified Leopard-class DropShip, the Dog House.
“Oh crap we got contact!†Stanley Wrigley called out, that hadn't been part of the plan.
“Apple, call it out†Coulson called back Stanley's lighter Bushwacker was further ahead of his bigger Mech.
“Incoming vehicles and there's lots of them.†He responded as his position was suddenly peppered with several flights of missiles.
“All right, we're CODE ORANGE, get the hell out of here. Dog House, this is Terrace, we are CODE ORANGE prepare for evac.â€
“Dog House to Terrace, confirm ORANGE call†the DropShip commander called out an ORANGE call was that they'd been detected and engaged but had lost no-one so far.
“Confirmed, we are are evading, conventional forces only at present.†He said sighting an unfamiliar vehicle moving in on his position rapidly. “Let's see how you like this†he said judging where it would be striking out with one of his large laser burning down the side of the vehicle. Amazingly it kept coming. “You've got to be kidding me†he cursed seeing the small wheeled vehicle turn towards him firing off a flight of missiles pocketing his Mech's armour. As it closed he cut in his medium pulse lasers as well finding more solid armour at the front. Moment's later the vehicle disappeared in a ball of flame as Lucas “Thud†Jameson's Maelstorm turned on it with a mass of laser and particle cannon fire. “If it's that small and it take's two of us let's get the hell out of here†Coulson suggested as his Mech began to rock gently he noticed some armour loss then moments later another tap his target was over eight hundred metres away peppering his location with autocannon fire. Beside it he saw another vehicle which was the same peppering Sarah “Sticks†Wrigley's Black Hawk KU. “We need to pull back, Apple, shift your ass†Coulson ordered taking a long shot at one of the autocannon armed vehicles with his laser only just missing. The vehicle and its partner continued to fire on his position.
“I'm coming†Apple replied as the Bushwacker retreated “we have incoming VTOLs as well.†he warned.
“Thud, Sticks fall back I'll coverâ€
“Sir, you can't hold on your own†Thud warned
“Trust me I've no plans in holding†he said firing on the autocannon vehicle again this time hitting his target causing a nasty burn over the front of the vehicle. In the air four VTOLs approached each had a pair of large blades with a large forward cannon. Coulson watched as the VTOLs dived down on the retreating Bushwacker the cannons spitting out autocannon shells tearing into the Medium Mech triggering both Long Range Missile Racks on his Timber Wolf Coulson's fire tore into the side of one of the VTOLs separating the lifting blade from the side of the vehicle. The craft spun out of control its autocannon firing wildly as it fell.
“Oh hell I've lost the right hip!†Apple called out the right leg of his Bushwacker frozen in place as the aircraft pounded him with fire.
“Sticks, Thud I need cover fire, Apple, get your harpoon ready!†Coulson called out.
“Terrace you have got to be kidding me, I'm in my fracking Mech!†The warrior called back the Harpoon was a specially modified gauss pistol with an extra strong guide wire attached. The idea was that if a MechWarrior was downed and on the ground they could use the pistol to get themselves onto a Mech that was nearby and evacuate. However the idea was for the Mech to be standing perfectly still and for there not to be a battle going on around them.
“It's that or you surrender to the Falconsâ€
“Nice choice†Apple replied striking down one of the enemy VTOLs with his autocannon “I'm ready, don't like this boss.â€
“No surprise, I'm in position†Coulson said beside his Timber Wolf both Sticks and Thud had moved back into position near his Timber Wolf. “Com'on no time like the present.â€
“This idea stinks!†Apple called out as he pulled his ejection handles blowing away cockpit canopy sending his ejection chair hundreds of feet into the air.
“I got a good track†Sticks said little surprise she had tracked the chair closely, that was her husband's ejection. “Good chute, good chute†Sticks said
“Apple, you read me?†Coulson asked praying the warrior was still conscious.
“Roger Terrace, I see you†Apple replied as the chair fell through the air “I'm in range†he said in the air around the falling chair there was flying munitions and enemy units but he kept his focus on the back of the Timber Wolf OmniMech. “Taking the shot†moments later Coulson felt a tap on the rear of Mech “damn it actually worked!†Apple shouted as he began to pull in the reel.
Brian Coulson smiled not expecting this to work he felt the Timber Wolf sway slightly when the wire and its connecting parachutes attached to his Mech. As Apple began to reel in he could feel a pull as the parachutes caught the wind.
“Cutting the chutes†Apple reported Coulson felt his Mech rock slightly as the chutes fell away and then the warrior hit the back of the Mech “in one piece, boss this isn't fun.†He complained.
“You're alive now hang the hell on†Coulson said putting his Mech into a reverse walk “Sticks, Thud walk it back.†he said together three three reversed their Mechs away from the hoards of Jade Falcon vehicles fortunately no Mechs had arrived yet. “Into the trees we'll lose them there†he said the more trees they walked past the harder it would be for the vehicles to get close to them.
“Terrace, Dog House, we're making our way clear of the Falcons “ground and VTOL air units encountered no Mechs. We have 3 Mechs and 4 MechWarriors make sure you're ready for us.â€
“We're standing by†Captain Svetlana Gritsenko replied
Jade Falcon missiles and autocannon fire continued to slam into the woods smashing trees and starting minor fires but causing little in the way of damage to the Junkyard Dogs Mechs. They slowed slightly allowing Standley Wrigley to climb into Coulson's Mech the loss of the Bushwacker was a quarter of their strength but at least the pilot was alive and well.
For almost eight hours the Junkyard Dogs avoided Jade Falcon patrols as Mechs and Battle Armour joined the search for the mercenaries. Slowly they circled around and back to the Dog House which was hidden near a mountainside strip. Waiting another six days the Dog House allowed the Jade Falcon security presence to die down before taking off at the same time as a Jade Falcon trader DropShip following that ships trajectory into orbit the Dog House was able to escape the atmosphere and rendezvous with their support JumpShip which was hidden at a pirate point.
Capellan Confederation Raid-in-Force
Zurich, Capellan March
Federated Suns
25th July 3093
The Capellan Confederation's Warrior House Ma-Tsu Kai lead an assault Zurich in the Federated Suns Capellan March supported by the Third Capellan Defence Force. Finding the Federated Suns WarShip assigned to the system on rotation to Saiph assisting with the AFFS evacuation of that world. On the ground they find the New Hessen Armoured Scouts Mercenary Regiment and the Tenth and Eleventh Syrtis Fusiliers LCTs. The mercenary command holds the main line while the two Light Combat Teams flank the enemies hitting their support and supply units. Unable to maintain their lines of support the Capellans retreat in disarray from Zurich.
-
Khan's Office, Clan Nova Cat Command
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat's Den, Periphery
9th August 3093
His youth was behind him Khan Canin Rosse knew this even if others still saw a man as fit as many twenty years his junior. The long journey to Tukayyid for the Clan Council and then back again had taken much out of him even with the Snow Ravens allowing the Severn Leroux to travel through the Raven Alliance on their return journey.
Now he had a mountain of paperwork to look at and yet another request to begin full offensive operations against the Filtvelt Coalition by some of his commanders. The discovery of Bartrock and Valois had given the Nova Cats new ground to use and to explore already there was promising signs on Bartrock of natural resources the Nova Cats could mine and use in construction and research. But this effort although celebrated within the Clan was not enough for most Elson West and Katrine Devalis were among the most vocal however others were beginning to call for additional operations.
Activating his computer system Khan Canin Rosse noticed that there was a message waiting for him opening it he noticed it was from the Planetary HPG. Only the other Khans would send him a message directly why they hadn't sent it directly to his WarShip was beyond him. Opening the message he awaited the ceremony that accompanied these messages from which ever Clan it was as they gave him the usual introduction of well wishes but warning of not to judge their friendship as weakness etc, etc. As he leaned back Canin was suddenly surprised to see the crest of the Taurian Concordat what they wanted with him was anyone's guess. Moments later the bullhead symbol was replaced with a familiar image.
“Father†she said “as you can see I am doing well.â€
“Sonja†Canin whispered looking at his daughter saying her name felt good even though there was no way for her to hear him.
“I have chosen through my own free will to come to Taurus is Protector Erik Martens-Calderon. They have not mistreated me here although their ways are strange and their contractions are deplorable†she joked smiling. This was not the woman who had informed her Khan, 'her Khan' Canin through his daughter had been very deliberate in her use of his title when they last spoke now there was no mention of it...
“Father, I wanted you to know that I chose to come here not because of a vision or because I could bring glory to our Clan but because I wanted to for me. My heart brought me here. You will remember eight years ago I and Erik were stranded together we were forged as one by combat against a pirate force. When you came to Taurus I knew that on that day I had to return with you or a war would have followed that would have devastated the Taurian people and our own. You knew this as well but because of who I am you were willing to despite all the caution you have taken with our Clan in the past.†She said in the Clans caution was often looked down on however it had served the Nova Cats better than many other strategies had. Canin Rosse often wondered what would have happened if they Clan had joined the Smoke Jaguars and invaded the Inner Sphere.
“Now I send you this message not because the Protector has asked me to but because I want you and mother to know I am alive and... happy. For the first time in many years I can serve a purpose that I wish for myself and for my future husband.†She said Canin Rosse stared at the screen in shock he and Yvonne were “married†a very loose term in Clan society and although it was well known that they stayed together few Nova Cats, even his worse enemies, payed much thought to it. Looking at his daughter he knew that her use of the term was meant as something else “as a result of my choice I have chosen to remain on Taurus permanently. I do not wish for Clan Nova Cat to come looking for me, my Khan, I wish to live my life. I also do not want you or mother to worry for me, this is my choice, I want this more than you will ever likely know.†She said moving slightly in her chair “I wish you and mother a long life and an honourable death. I hope we never come to blows however know this Nova Cat Khan that should that happen I will willingly fight alongside and die alongside the Taurian people.†The tone of her words had changed she was now more official, more like the Sonja Rosse that Canin had come to know, more determined than before.
The news of the defection of Sonja Rosse took almost a week to reach Canin's rivals within the Nova Cats and they did not mess around calling for a Trial of Refusal against the Khan. Despite feeling the years catching him Canin Rosse was still a very able MechWarrior and hand-to-hand warrior defeating a total of three Nova Cats one in a Trial of Refusal then two further in separate Circles of Equals. Unable to defeat the Khan in battle Canin's rivals knew that with Grayson Rosse dead and Sonja gone once the Khan past his line would go with him.
Border skirmish
Andurien Commonality, Capellan Confederation
15th August 3093
The Magistracy of Canopus launches a series of raids against former-Free Worlds League worlds held by the Capellan Confederation. Comprised of the First Canopian Cuirassiers, the First Revanthir Cuirassiers, the First Canopian Fusiliers and the First Magistracy Highlander Regiments. Within each attack is a well placed company of Pixiu Heavy Tanks a newly deployed unit in the Magistracy's armed forces. Although these four companies represent every Pixiu available to the Magistracy of Canopus' armed forces the intention is to show this tank on every world showing that the Magistracy is not ready to roll over for the Capellan Confederation.
Not designed to net the Magistracy any new territory they are surprised to find the world of Scheuerheck in open revolt against their Capellan overlords pressing on with this advantage they turned the raid into a full offensive pushing the Capellan garrison and the Maskirovka unit based there off the planet. In the aftermath of the battle the Canopians find that the Capellan Confederation purge of Cameron-St Jamis supporters had been extended to dozens of worlds including every former-Free Worlds League system. Dozens had been reported as dead or missing on Scheuerheck forcing the planet to stand up for itself against the Capellans.
In the following days the Magistracy of Canopus deploy scouts to each of the Capellan Confederation worlds bordering their space searching for further signs of revolt they could take advantage of. On each world they find a similar case of the planet's population being held under a case of martial law but there are little signs of open rebellion.
Hell's Horse Counter-attack
Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
21st August 3093
Continuing their counter offensive against the Hell's Horses striking at Alleghe, St John and Bruden they crush four Clusters of The Serpent's force and the WarShip Gully's Hall, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, formerly of Clan Star Adder in the Bruden system. Both the warriors and the WarShip put up a fight against the Hell's Horses forces however they are overwhelmed by the Hell's Horses forces. Like the Rasalhague Dominion's recent findings the Hell's Horses find a disproportionate amount of civilians with the remains of the warriors. In an effort to keep them under control the Hell's Horses separate the civilians from the local population to begin interrogations. With the successes on their own worlds and Clan Wolf showing no interest in their lost worlds they land the Hell's Horses to it upon themselves to land on Mozirje and Feltre defeating The Serpents forces on both of these worlds as well.
Open Mech Auction
Old Connaught, Arc-Royal
Arc-Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
31st August 3093
There was a time when a MechWarrior who lost a Mech in combat would become known as “the dispossessed.†During the height of the Third Succession War these warriors were a common sight with entire regiments of foot infantry being formed from dispossessed warriors who were willing to serve if they had the slimmest of chances of winning a BattleMech ride once again. Today things were different the recovery of Star League-era technology and the arrival of the Clans changed everything now across the Inner Sphere and Periphery there were more than three hundred BattleMech lines on more than a hundred worlds.
So for a unit like the Junkyard Dogs replacing a lost Mech was a lot easier than a reliable warrior which was why Brian Coulson had been willing to go to such lengths to recover Stanley Wrigley on Koniz. Now they were back on Arc-Royal looking at perspective Mechs at a Mech Auction. So far the Junkyard Dogs had been priced out by bigger commands or not been interested in the designs presented. Stanley was looking for a medium design he often acted as the units scout however given that they often engaged the Clans not too light.
There were only three lots left when a heavily modified Stealth STH-6X walked into the viewing area. The 6X, or SiX as it was known in the LCAF, was one of several Stealth models the LCAF had purchased from the Federated Suns following the AFFS debut of the Stealth OmniMech. The Lyrans had then spent the next decade and a half modifying and experimenting on these fifty-five ton chassis trying various different weapon loadouts of the experiments the SiX was in the middle. Unlike the 5X model it had an Endo Steel frame making it more able to take hits, but it carried a standard covering of armour meaning less coverage. The Mech also lacked the Clan tech laser system leaving it with a standard set of extended-range mediums to back the Short Range Missile system. More importantly the Mech still had the ECM and Active probe systems needed for a scout and the Chameleon Light Shield which allowed it to virtually disappear from sight.
“I want this one†Stanley said looking at the Mech
“It's an accident waiting to happen†Sarah Wrigley pointed out “it's going to be a maintenance hog.â€
“I can make it work, Brian, put my own cash into the pot if you have to I want that Mech.†He said looking at the design. Brian led the lance but they were more friends than a military unit he'd taken rank to keep a Duke happy that there was a commander in the group. He wasn't entirely convinced about the design but having a fast Mech like the Stealth with its long jump capability could come in very handy and as his first Mech instructor had said “if the warrior likes his Mech they will work well together.†Stanley wanted the Mech so that was one step in the right direction.
Nearly thirty minutes later the bidding came to a close and the Junkyard Dogs had their newest Mech it had cost a little more than expected but as promised Stanley had paid the overcharge out of his own savings now they'd need to sign the documentation for the Mech and get it fully checked out before taking their next assignment.
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Homecoming
Taurus, Taurian Concordat
4th September 3093
With logistical support from Interstellar Expeditions the Taurian Concordat welcomes home two ancient Aquilla-class Transports into the Taurus system. Neither ship will ever be capable of continuous use however they do offer insights into construction long lost to the Taurian people. Both ships are moved to the Hades Cluster location that once concealed the TCS Vandenburg and there they are placed under heavy guard. As part of the ship's official homecoming Protector Erik Martens-Calderon and his new fiancee Sonja Rosse tour the ships once they arrive at the anchorage.
Commonwealth Today, Coventry News
Coventry, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
9th September 3093
The Commonwealth Today program was beamed to a hundred worlds across the Lyran Commonwealth from its studios on Coventry. The show was popular in the Lyran Commonwealth because it did not shy away from the important matters or ignore the mistakes of the nation's leadership. Today presenters Karl Mayer and Lena Landrut-Dumontet, both celebrities across the Lyran Commonwealth, were discussing a particularly “prickly†subject – Skye, generally speaking Commonwealth Today did not avoid any topic however in certain areas they stepped carefully when discussing Skye, Clan Wolf (in-Exile), Hersperus Industries, the Free Worlds League and House Davion.
Today however it was news and as the show prided itself on “if it was worth taking about then you could find it on Commonwealth Today.†Karl Mayer was in his forties with short cropped blonde hair, well tanned skin and blue eyes the stereo typical Lyran citizen while Lena Landrut-Dumontet was a polar opposite ten years younger with long red hair, pale skin and dark brown eyes together however they made a perfect “couple†with more than one rumour traveling around the Lyran Commonwealth stating that they were in-fact one although Commonwealth Today intentionally avoided confirming or denying such rumours.
“And the news from Skye today was that the new shipyard facilities in the Gladius system are almost ready to begin construction of their first WarShip which has been authorized by Tharkad.†Lena said opening the news.
“A prudent move by Archon Peter†Karl said “a stronger Skye means a stronger Tharkad and a stronger Commonwealth.â€
“And it supports the notion that Skye can live without Tharkad?†Lena suggested
“Nonsense†Karl said with a broad smile “the devolved government pioneered by Archon Peter has eliminated all worries that Skye will attempt a breakaway. Instead the Isle can handle its own affairs while Tharkad remains in a position to exert their authority.â€
“And with their own ground forces and WarShip forces there is more potential than ever for trouble.†Lena said
“Or less the shipyard at Gladius needs defence which the Lyran Commonwealth has provided Hesperus II supports Tharkad more now than ever.†Karl pointed out “would the Archon or the Estates General have authorized Ioto Enterprises to share its Mjolinir design with the Gladius Shipyards if there was no confidence in the loyalty of the people there?†He asked “no†he answered “the Lyran people have long learned the mistakes of the Draconis Combine and the Free Worlds League in suppressing their minority governments. Instead Tharkad recognized that Skye had its place to play in a stronger Lyran Commonwealth a place that is only strengthened with the Gladius shipyard's construction.â€
“So†Lena said looking into the “opinions are divided but today marks another step towards Skye independence? A stronger Skye and more unified Lyran realm? Only time and the people will tell. “ Lena said finishing the piece Skye building WarShips was good for the Lyran Commonwealth but also perhaps a double-edged sword if Skye's rebellious side began to show again.
Headhunter Attack
Albany, New Oslo
Serpent Territory, Inner Sphere
14th September 3093
Using a specially modified Isegrim Assault DropShip Clan Wolf launch a headhunter attack against New Oslo, one of the Wolf worlds occupied by The Serpents, from the DropShip twenty-five specially trained “headhunter†Elemental warriors launch and assault on the capital city of Albany targeting the local government buildings. Engaging defenders in a room to room battle pushing into one of the planetary leadership rooms cornering former Clan Steel Viper saKhan Nicole Hoskins.
In a Circle of Equals Star Colonel Ronan Tutuola, the massive elemental commander of the First Wolf Assault Cluster, defeated the former saKhan claiming her as his bondsman. With their prize claimed Clan Wolf's surviving Elementals quickly evacuated the planet escaping to their DropShip. As the DropShip moved away from the planet the Are's Might, a Star Adder Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, moved to block their escape however damage from previous battle kept the WarShip out of effective weapons range allowing the Wolves to escape.
On the 22nd September days after the Wolves had left the system Rasalhague Dominion troops arrived in the system capturing the Are's Might and much of the ground forces along with the planet. Days later Clan Hell's Horses assaults Unzmarkt and Hohenems both worlds find themselves cut off from the support of other Serpent's held systems and fall within a matter of hours of the Hell's Horses landings as the invaders salient into the occupation Zones collapses.
Border Conflict
Magistracy of Canopus/Capellan Confederation
21st September 3093
After a month of pushing by the Magistracy of Canopus Ebon Magistrate Special Forces the worlds of Meadowvale and Watermael spring into open rebellion. While the locals riot and resist against their Capellan overlords the Magistracy of Canopus bring in additional assets including a lance of Eyleuka and Ebony BattleMechs. With the Capellan Confederation overstretched unable to sufficiently garrison these far flung worlds the appearance of the Magistracy troops on the planet quickly makes the position of the Capellans unattainable. Allowing the Magistracy to hold the worlds the Capellan troops are allowed to leave.
Clan Raid
Victoria Commonality
Capellan Confederation
23rd September 3093
In an effort to appease more aggressive elements of the Nova Cat touman Khan Canin Rosse authorizes Sigma Galaxy under the command of Galaxy Commander Elson West to raid several Capellan Commonwealth periphery worlds. Intent on making the most this opportunity Elson directs the six Clusters of Sigma Galaxy to strike at six different worlds of the Confederation. Leading his own Sigma Keshik against Herotitus engaging the recently formed Twelfth Liao Lancers, the Herotitus Lancers, fighting near the planetary capital the Nova Cats fight off against a Mech battalion and two armour battalions on the ground contesting the territory for nearly an hour before retreating.
As Elson West contests territory on Herotitus the other Nova Cat units engage Capellan or Capellan hired mercenaries on the worlds of Ward, Renown, Repulse, New Roland and Jacomarle. On Jacomarle the Lockhardt's Ironsides regiment throws themselves at the Nova Cat Lancers Cluster causing heavy damage to all three of the units trinaries forcing the Clan to retreat before being destroyed. The salvage left behind by the Nova Cat command was quickly impounded by the Maskirovka and taken off Jacomarle for further study.
Beyond Capellan territory the Nova Cats fall back into the periphery where the Galaxy rendezvoused returning to the Nova Cat's Den several months later. Once back several of the warriors are allowed to fight in Trials of Bloodright and Trials of Position leading to other Galaxy commanders to strain against the Nova Cat's position in the periphery.
“Trial of Vengeanceâ€
Clipperton, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
27th September 3093
In a raid to repay the damage done on Kyeinnisan Faulk Khanate, supported by units from every other Clan Sea Fox attack, the system of Clipperton, in the Principality of Regulus, specifically attacking the Irian Technologies Shipyards, the birthplace of the Regulus-class Frigate.
The WarShips Terror of the Deep, a Nightlord-class Battleship, supported by the vessels Territorial and Hakaze, both Hakaze-class Escort Destroyer, and the Nagasawa, a Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser assault the system supporting eight Clusters of Sea Fox ground forces.
Nearing the shipyards they engage the vessels RS Clipperton and RS Norfolk, two Regulus-class Frigates, as the WarShips bring their massive firepower to bear on the two WarShips and their support squadrons of Leopard Pocket WarShips Sea Fox Elementals stream onto the shipyards and ground forces land all over Clipperton engaging the Second Cameron-Jones House Guard Regiment and Hawkin's Zouaves, a reinforced regiment sized mercenary command. The Sea Fox ground forces specifically target Irian's facilities on the surface engaging the DropShip production and administration facilities even at the expense of damage to their own units.
Over four hours of battle in near orbit the two Regulus-class Frigates and their supporting DropShips are torn to pieces by the massed firepower brought by the Sea Fox WarShips, however the cost to the Sea Fox Clan is great, the Hakaze is destroyed while the other vessels including the Terror of the Deep are heavily damaged.
On the shipyards the Elementals cause heavy damage destroying more than a battalion of marines defending the facility they also destroy two under construction Regulus-class Frigates within the facility and capture an almost completed Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser. On the ground the Sea Foxes finish destroying Irians DropShip production facilities fighting the defending ground forces to a stand still losing nearly two clusters of ground troops in the process before reaching a dead lock.
Launching ceremony
Hadrian's Command Shipyard, Classified System
Crucis March, Federated Suns
30th September 3093
Due to affairs of the state First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had not been able to come to Hadrian's Command very often however each time he was here he was blown away by the vastness of the facilities here. Located deep within a debris field, which was likely once a planet long before humanity had come to this system, Hadrian's Command was the Federated Suns best kept secret. A hold-over from the Star League era during the First Succession War they had sent ruined WarShips to the system abandoning them to secure positions within the debris field. Central to the organization of the system was “The Space Station†originally it had consisted of a single Star League-designed Arcology-class Space Station however over the years three damaged Alliance-class Space Stations, from across the Federated Suns, had been broken down and transported to the system and reassembled. Due to the limitations on supplies available the three stations barely resembled the original Alliance class but they fit the purpose that they were designed which was, combined with the Arcology, to provide living quarters and administration facilities for the people who lived and worked at Hadrian's Command.
Following the discovery of the Gray Death Memory Core a brand-new Olympus-class Recharge Facility, four factories and a shipyard facility capable of handling any of the Federated Suns WarShips had been constructed. Then in 3069 Challenge Systems of Panpour had transferred their Congress-class Frigate production facilities to Hadrian's Command further enhancing the facilities based there and increasing the amount of people based there. Now there were almost twenty-one thousand civilians based in the system on the various space stations and ships and all were coordinated from the Prime Station, Arcology-class, and defended by four elite aerospace fighter wings and three Battle Armour Battalions.
Although the facilities were based deep within the Federated Suns Crucis March the system was defended permanently by the First Hadrian's Command Defence Force a reinforced Aerospace Fighter Regiment and a Regiment of Battle Armour troopers. Supporting them were fixed weapon emplacements and at least one Federated Suns Navy WarShip. Today with the presence of the First Prince in the system there were four WarShips in the system supporting the regular defence systems.
Standing on one of the Prime Station's many gravity decks First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion looked out the specially designed artificial diamond view ports over the facilities in the system wondering what his father Hanse Davion must have thought when he visited this system. The records stated that Hanse had visited the system three times during his rein as First Prince of the Federated Suns. During that time the Federated Suns did not have the technology to restore the WarShips that languished there instead the hulls had been a reminder of everything the AFFS once had at its disposal. Now things were different he thought as Director Joel Yeager and Princes Champion General Damien Redburn approached “all is secure, sire†the Prince's Champion assured Victor. Damien Redburn was in many ways like his father Andrew Redburn entirely dependable and a professional soldier.
“We are ready†Joel Yeager said confidently. Victor Steiner-Davion was impressed by the Director's confidence, today was a new step for development of the Federated Suns navy a vessel that would surpass the nations around it and for the first time give one of the Succession States a WarShip that could match those fielded by the Clans. Yeager brought out a communication device “Prime to James Davion engage engines when ready.†He said the First Prince looked at the Director the Project's name had been Black Prince.
Moments later however his thoughts and his breath were taken away at the sight before him the vessel was a more massive version of the Columbia-class Battleship/Carrier hybrid the FSS Pegasus. The vessel's massive alligator-shaped “head†forward section, the twin hanger pods and the massive engineering section showed the vessel's linage to the older vessel however that was where the similarities ended. Where the Pegasus had naval lasers as its primary weapons system this new class focused on heavy naval autocannons and gauss rifles for the majority of its firepower capable of breaking any enemy target within range. To ensure the vessel could get within weapons range the ship's massive engines and one hundred-and-twenty aerospace fighters and a large array of conventional weapons. One unique feature of the vessel was a new innovative system buried deep near the KF Drive a second generation Lithium Fusion Battery which enabled the WarShip to store three charges allowing it to move up to ninety light years before needing to recharge its jump cells. The system was massive twice the size of a regular system and it came with a greater chance of failure but it would revolutionize travel between the starts.
“First Prince Davion, allow me to introduce the FSS James Davion†Director Joel Yeager said proudly looking at the ship as it rolled moving past the facility.
“The James Davion†Victor Steiner-Davion said looking at the ship. “The project was named Black Prince?†he asked “The Black Prince†was James Davion, the tenth leader of the Federated Suns, a capable leader of the nation who restored the belief of the nation's population in House Davion.
“Focus groups suggested that Black Prince was perhaps too strong a name...â€
“No†Victor said halting the director's explanation “Black Prince is exactly what the Federated Suns needs. That ship is the power and confidence that will rejuvenate our armed forces. This is the FSS Black Prince†the First Prince said “make it happen Director†he said glancing from the ship back to the man.
“Sire, you just did†the Director said showing that he was still showing the communicator “the FSS Black Prince is now ready to begin operational trials. She will be ready for deployment within six to eight months depending on their success.â€
“Excellent†the First Prince said looking at the massive WarShip in front of him.
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Bonus Time, the Mercury-class Heavy Battleship
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/mercury-class-heavy-battleship/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/mercury-class-heavy-battleship/)
And the Lithium Fusion Battery Mk II
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/lithium-fusion-battery-mark-ii/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/lithium-fusion-battery-mark-ii/)
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Oriente Offensive
Andruien Commonality, Capellan Confederation
4th October 3093
In a move similar to that of the Magistracy of Canopus the Oriente Protectorate strike at the worlds of Cap Rouge, Granera and Skovrec. Finding each of the worlds defended by nothing more than local militia troops the Oriente Protectorate troops quickly welcome these worlds into the Oriente nation.
Negotiations
Clipperton, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
18th October 3093
The battle for Clipperton had been long the Sea Foxes controlled the system but on the ground they could not defeat the Regulan troops. The Clansmen were not willing to employ orbital weapons against the native troops leading to a stalemate. On the 15th October a group of JumpShips and the Wolf's Dragoons WarShip Athena jumped into the system. Almost three days later the WarShip and its attending DropShips arrived near Clipperton as this new force approached the Sea Foxes prepared for another battle however yet another surprise awaited the Sea Foxes with the request of the Clan right of Safcon from the approaching forces.
On the ground Khan Hanna Coston watched as the battered old Union-class DropShip came in for a landing. In the air Sea Fox aerospace fighters kept watch not on the Union but on the surrounding area Regulan forces were still at large in the area. Once the DropShip was on the ground a single civilian limousine drove from the ship towards Hanna Coston safcon, or safe-passage, had been granted and these people whomever they were had been well schooled in its meaning no doubt by the dezgra Wolf's Dragoons.
Flanked by several Elementals Hanna Coston watched as several individuals in business suits stepped out approaching “Khan Hanna Coston?†The female of the group asked the Sea Fox leader nodded “I'm Prime Minister Sabine Grayden leader of the Bowang Trade Sphere†she greeted she was in her sixties at least and from what Hanna Coston could tell she was not a warrior. “I think we need to talk†she greeted Hanna Coston was impressed that the leader of the nation would attend herself.
“Please enter†the Clan Khan said turning to the side allowing the small party's entry inside there was a table which Hanna Coston indicated for them to sit she sat opposite them. “Your interference is not required this is a Sea Fox matter.â€
“I am aware of your grievances with the Principality of Regulus and my forces have no intention on interfering.â€
“Then why are you here?†Hanna Coston asked
“To offer you options Khan Coston†Sabine Grayden said “if you remain on this world, in this system, the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and the Principality of Regulus will likely try to take this world time and again desperate to regain control over the shipyards.â€
“Then we will destroy them.†Hanna Coston said as if the shipyards meant nothing to her “and we will destroy anyone who tries to take this system.â€
“Instead we could offer you a third option?†Sabine Grayden suggested
“A third option like what? Your people have very little in the way of a military, no WarShips and little influence my Clan spans the Inner Sphere and beyond. Your deal with the dezgra Dragoons does not help your case.â€
“All of the ground forces I have brought here are my own. The WarShip is the only Dragoon asset in this system†Sabine retorted quickly she was proud of the forces she had taken here and the bravery they had shown. “Our nation is a legitimate Free Worlds League nation born in this state.â€
“This failed state there is nothing legitimate about the Free Worlds League petty warlords grasping for worlds to call their own.â€
“Our worlds go back to the basis of the Free Worlds League. My family will not continue to control my nation forever we believe in the choice of our people.â€
“Then how can I trust anything that you say?â€
“Because I also have the power to write agreements into our constitution. And all things, other than a single family to rule, once written cannot be removed.†She explained to Hanna Coston it sounded more complicated than it needed to be.
“What is your proposal?â€
“Clan Sea Fox in its entirety will always be welcome in this system and those of the Bowang Free Trade Sphere.†Sabine Grayden explained “your ships can treat our entire nation as one that your people can freely move through and trade your goods, services and skills.†She said “you will also be welcome to bid for land and build whatever you wish on these worlds.â€
“That is a big offer†Hanna Coston admitted there more at least twenty systems in the Bowang Free Trade Sphere more territory than the Sea Foxes had ever had access to. “At what cost?â€
“Clipperton will become one of our worlds, as will its shipyards†Sabine Grayden said “as part of our agreement you will be allowed to bid to use the facilities that remain in this system but they will be owned exclusively by us.†The woman said Hanna Coston wondered if she understood that a Clan “bid†would not necessarily be a monetary one. “You will also recognize and accept that the Wolf's Dragoons are also welcome in this system and the others of the Bowang Free Trade Sphere.â€
“Dezgra†Hanna Coston cursed
“Regardless of your thoughts towards them Bowang has made an agreement with them if you honour our agreement then you will honour theirs.â€
“If they stay away from us then I could accept to ignore them.†She said the Dragoons were in some ways like the Sea Fox opportunistic they had survived for almost one hundred years in the Inner Sphere a feat none of the Clans came close to matching. “I will accept your proposal with three conditions.â€
“And they are?†Sabine asked wearily
“First, the Regulus-class Frigate is lost to history no further examples of this design are ever built its design specifications if held here are to be destroyed.†The Sea Fox Khan demanded of all the conditions this was what she was most intent on Sabine Grayden nodded her agreement.
“Second, as Clan Sea Fox is currently in possession of the Clipperton Shipyard the Agamemnon-class WarShip currently under construction is ours to take in its present condition.†She said she had already checked with the Sea Fox engineers and scientists the ship could make the journey to the Chainelane Isles where the Clan could complete it.â€
“Our nation could have done with that vessel however if you do no further damage to the yards then we will be able to build future craft. I agree.â€
“Good, we will do more than do no more damage Prime Minister should you welcome the Sea Fox as you say we will ensure your shipyards are the grandest the Free Worlds League has ever seen.â€
“Certainly worth exploring†Sabine Grayden admitted she was surprised by the Clan's almost instant willingness to work with them even if they did have conditions to the agreement.
“Third, you forces will fight an honour duel with our forces for possession of this world†she said raising her hand as she saw Sabine Grayden begin to speak in protest “regardless of the outcome you will retain everything I have agreed to.†She promised “however if we win the shipyards will repair all damage done to our WarShips Terror of the Deep and Territorial before beginning construction of any new ships for your nation.â€
“That could take months†Sabine Grayden protested
“Then you have all the more incentive to win the battle.†Hanna Coston said wickedly.
The agreement between the Bowang Free Trade Sphere and Clan Sea Fox was signed later that afternoon with news of it passed around the Inner Sphere and beyond by the end of the week. The remaining Regulan and mercenary forces were allowed to leave the planet on threat of orbital bombardment should they choose to continue to resist. Neither Bowang or Clan Sea Fox were naive enough to believe that Regulus would give up on the system however the Wolf's Dragoons offered to place a WolfNet Intelligence team on the planet along with a Seventh Kommando team as part of their new three year contract with Bowang.
As part of the Sea Fox conditions the Clan removed the partially completed Agamemnon-class vessel from the shipyards naming it Kyeinnisan in honour of the fallen Sea Fox trade colony. On the ground a Clan Sea Fox force drawn from all the Clusters that had fought on the planet fought against the First Bowang Border Guard Regiment. In a short battle the battle hardened Sea Fox force won the contest and the right to have their WarShips repaired at the Clipperton shipyards beginning with the Terror of the Deep. This was actually a win for the people of Bowang as well as they gained access to the Nightlord-class Battleship during the period of its repairs gaining some insights into the construction and design of the mighty Clan built vessel. With the presence of so many Sea Foxes in the system repairs to the Battleship and the shipyards progressed at a rapid rate with the Terror of the Deep repaired by the end of 3093 and the Territorial repaired by the middle of 3094.
Federated Suns Offensive
Liao Commonality, Capellan Confederation
20th October 3093
In response for the Capellan Confederation attack on Zurich the Federated Suns sends a message back with a raid in force on six different worlds. Targeting the worlds of Kansu, Bachlau, Ningpo, Alcol, Aldebaran and Liao. With the First Davion Guards RCT, the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry RCT, the First Kathil Uhlans Regiment leading the charge they are supported by First, Second and Third Tikonov Cossacks and the mercenary commands the First New Hessen Irregulars, Clinton's Cutthroats and The Obsidian Lancers along with seven Federated Suns WarShips.
On the worlds of Liao, Alcol, and Ningpo the AFFS are unable to break the Capellan defences however on the other three worlds the AFFS forces outclass Capellan defences forcing them into retreat. On Aldebaran Prince Burton Davion's First Davion Guards and the Third Tikonov Cossacks out classed the Prefectorate Guard Regiment of the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces on the planet and in the style the Prince had perfected in his battles against the Draconis Combine Burton Davion sent a message to Sian addressed to the Chancellor with a stark warning. “Push the Federated Suns and we will push you back further than you have ever been pushed before.†His father Victor Steiner-Davion sends Burton a personal message urging his son not to antagonize their nation's enemies however Burton has seen his strategy work with the Combine with the Dragon thinking twice before continuing battles against Burton Davion.
Although Dao-shen Liao does not take the message from Burton Davion well however three days later the Capellan Confederation's Chancellor celebrates the birth of his daughter, his first child to Erin Liao, which the couple name Zeia Liao. Although this does not make up for the loss of three worlds it does lighten Dao-shen Liao's mood.
McCarron's Armoured Cavalry Base camp
Point Barrow, Crucis March
Federated Suns
27th October 3093
Elizabeth McCarron looked over the assembled BattleMechs of her command several of the Big Mac's BattleMechs and vehicles needed extensive repair five were completely missing as were their pilots. The unit had become complacent in their escort duties and they had taken a hit because of it. She had already sent her report to New Avalon stating where the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry had gone wrong, she had also pointed out that the pirate force that attacked them was exceptionally well equipped, her unit was to blame.
Instead of accepting the failure however Elizabeth McCarron had another idea. Along with her report she had sent a request for the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry to be placed in a front-line role stating the unit's “escort†duties had dulled their fighting edge.
Counter-attack, Serpent's Line
Clan Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
29th October 3093
Further Counter-attacks against The Serpents leads to the Rasalhague Dominion forcing the invaders out of their territory and pushing onto the former Wolf worlds of Outpost and Svelvik. Finding several hundred civilians from the homeworlds but no warriors. The civilians inform the Rasalhague Dominion troops that their defenders abandoned them to join the rest of the Serpents in the Hell's Horse Occupation Zone.
In a move mirroring that of the Rasalhague Dominion Hirohito Kurita leads the WarShips DCS Nagato, DCS Draconis Rift, DCS Susanoo and the DCS Amaterasu supporting the Regiments the First Sword of Light, the First Yokosuma Regiment and the Third Genyosha. The DCMS land on the world of Richmond like an anvil tearing the former Cloud Cobra WarShip Wisdom of Ages, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, the vessel damaged from fighting in the Clan Homeworlds is literally split into two pieces by the incoming Draconis Combine troops. Led by the Land Air Mechs of the First Yokosuma Regiment the DCMS ground troops rapidly overrun the four garrison clusters of Serpents on the planet. After the fighting is over almost one hundred warriors and more three thousand civilians are captured by the Draconis Combine troops. The warriors are executed by the Draconis Combine troops while the civilians are packed into cargo DropShips and taken deeper into the Draconis Combine there they are sterilized by the Draconis Combine scientists and spread across the realm.
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Leadership Transfer
Terra Firma, Star League Protectorate
6th November 3093
Following months of negotiations the Star League Protectorate and Federated Suns agree for Terra Firma to be transferred to SLDF governorship and defence. Due to the damage done to the world during the Manei Domini crisis the Federated Suns will continue to help fund the worlds redevelopment however the Star League will rule the world's day to day affairs and defence.
Calderon Palace, Samantha
Taurus, Hydes Cluster
Taurian Concordat
10th November 3093
Sonja Rosse was dressed in loose clothing the Calderon Palace was warm as the planet entered its summer season. She found Erik Martens-Calderon sitting in one of the palace's many studies “you look comfortable†she commented entering sitting opposite him.
“Catching up on some paperwork.†He said he said looking up at her “how was your check up?†He asked for the last week Sonja had not been well she'd finally given in and agreed to see the Calderon family doctors.
“Depends on how you describe well...†Sonja admitted Erik turned towards her putting down his paperwork.
“Whatever you need, whatever doctors are required I will make sure you get it.†He promised her.
“It's not something that doctors can sort Erik†she said smiling pleased that he cared for her so much “I'm pregnant†She said wondering if this was the right way of doing this.
“Pregnant†Erik said “Pregnant†he repeated this time a smile crossing his lips as he rose to stand beside her still smiling “you're alright with this?†He asked wondering how her clan warrior instincts were taking the idea.
“It'll take a bit to get used to†Sonja said “and my Mech is going to feel neglected.†She joked smiling “our future†she said reaching up drawing his hand onto her tummy there was nothing to feel but the idea that there was something within her and the man that she loved was with her meant something and even if she didn't fully grasp it she liked the feeling.
Jade Falcon Assaults
Inarcs Theatre, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
25th November 3093
Even with the Serpents at their back Clan Jade Falcon continue with plans to invade the Lyran Commonwealth striking at seven worlds simultaneously. The hardest of these is the former Theatre capital of Melissa which is defended by a combined command of Lyran Commonwealth and Star League Defence Force units including three WarShips. The Jade Falcons send their Emerald Talon, a Nightlord-class Battleship, and two Peregrine-class Corvettes the Peregrine and Falcon. The first WarShip class developed by the Jade Falcons the class had been retired and mothballed after nearly 80 years in service. Not a people known to waste things the Jade Falcons had kept the craft in working condition through all the years up until it became time for the Clan to evacuate the Ironhold system. Not willing to give up on ships they had invested so much in the Jade Falcons had taken them to the Inner Sphere despite being cleared for combat the battle of the Melissa system was the first for the two ships since their reactivation.
Because the Peregrines were small and underarmoured compared to most modern WarShips the two one hundred-and-eighty thousand ton vessels hid in the shadow of the Emerald Talon allowing the larger WarShip to take the hits for them while adding in their naval autocannons and capital missiles as the two naval forces passed each other.
The SLS Wild Scream, a Patriot-class Heavy Cruiser, and the LCS Thomas McQuiston, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, along with an assault squadron of DropShips and their escorting aerospace fighters attempted to blunt the Jade Falcon invasion with a combination of fire aimed at the Nightlord's nose however the Jade Falcons anticipated such a move rotating as they approached the Emerald Talon instead took the brunt of the damage to its broadside armour but was also able to deliver a broadside straight into the nose of the incoming defending WarShips with autocannons lasers and particle cannons causing heavy damage to the Wild Scream severing communication links across the ship. In the shadow of the Wild Scream the LCS Katherine, a Peter-class Scout, moved between the its ally and the Emerald Talon and attempted to screen the larger vessel knocking down multiple flights of missiles finding success against the multiple barracuda missiles fired by the two Peregrines but it did nothing to stop the continued onslaught of naval autocannon fire from the Emerald Talon.
The Thomas McQuiston attempted to join the Katherine in its screening effort cutting over the Emerald Talon's nose firing a broadside of naval particle cannon fire at the larger battleship however this only brought the firepower of all three Jade Falcon vessels down on the single Hyperion-class vessel. The effect of the three vessels baring down on the vessel tore the Thomas McQuiston's side open exposing the vessel to more damage shattering the vessel's jump core. Despite the heavy damage the Thomas McQuiston's crew continued to fire causing damage to the Falcon WarShip Peregrine and several of the Clan DropShips. The Lyran heavy cruiser's continued resistance ended up being the vessel and its crew's last act in the battle for the Melissa system as the three Jade Falcon vessels turned their attention on the Hyperion obliterating it in a massive salvo of fire.
In an effort to get the word of Jade Falcon invasion beyond the commander of the SLS Wild Scream ordered the LCS Katherine to make a break for it. The small vessel which resembled a slightly over-sized Gazelle-class DropShip arced away from the Wild Scream which opened fire with all its remaining weapons due to the damage done to the vessel's internal communication systems the weapons fire was uncoordinated and ineffective against the three Jade Falcon craft. The clan counter-attack against the single WarShip burned the vessel from stem-to-stern gutting the vessel. The Wild Scream's sacrifice allowed the LCS Katherine to escape the system.
Following victory in space the Jade Falcons quickly spread onto the planet using an Inner Sphere tactic of combined fire against the 1894th Light Horse Regimental Brigade of the SLDF, the Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT and the Third Lyran Regulars RCT. The ground forces are pushed back time and again unable to hold as the Jade Falcons Gryfalcon and Falcon's Wings Galaxies. After eight days of battle the three defending commands are all badly damaged with the three Jade Falcon WarShips moving into near orbit. Instead of pushing these forces until they were completely broken Khan Bryan Pryde offered the defenders an “out†retreat from the planet and maintain their honour and their remaining forces. Colonel Sandra Jamison, commander of the 1894th Light Horse having seen nearly three Regiments of her own brigade lost, the Third Lyran Guards RCT devastated and the Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT left without a commander accepted the Jade Falcon proposal taking the remains of their defenders to Inarcs.
Using this victory as a springboard the Jade Falcons assaulted the Lyran worlds of Hood IV, Jesenice, Zongshan and Machida capturing them all. On the world of Jesenice the Jade Falcons encountered the Splinted Shield a unit made up of former members of the AFFS who had left the Federated Suns following the Varnay Crisis. Finding the Clan border a prosperous place the unit had fought in dozens of battles against the Clans capturing much of their technology and using it against them. This occasion was different, as this was no raid, this was an invasion harking back to the Clans of 3050 the Jade Falcon force hit Jesenice in force and at a pace that caught the defenders completely by surprise completely and utterly crushing the mercenaries taking none as prisoner or as bondsmen.
Trade Station
Hamilton, Arc-Royal Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
27th November 3093
Through Clan Sea Fox traders on Hamilton Lyran Intelligence is able to gain access to thew newly developed Vehicle Flame Resistant Armour and Automatic Fire Extinguisher systems as neither system has any offensive capability the Clans have no objections in sharing them. Both systems are returned to Tharkad for further analysis the Lyrans believe that the Automatic Fire Extinguishers should be easy to convert to Inner Sphere use with the abundance of fire retardant material available. The Fire Resistant armour is something else however each time the Lyrans attempt to replicate the armour during stress tests against a missile or autocannon munition the armour cracks and fails to protect the vehicle it is attached to leading to the armour remaining in R&D and analysis.
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Second Wave, Jade Falcon Assaults
Arc-Royal Theatre, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
7th December 3093
Expanding their offensive to a second round of attacks against the Lyran Commonwealth Clan Jade Falcon invades the worlds of Dustball, A Place, Morges and Dela. Supported by three Jade Falcon WarShips the Silver Talon, Sarna Mercer and the Jade Claw saKhan Emily Helmer leads the Jade Falcon Galaxy and the Talon Strike Galaxies in their attacks.
On A Place the Jade Falcons encounter an old foe the Iron Will Mercenary Brigade. The Iron Will have as much respect for the Jade Falcons as they have for the mercenaries. Both forces throw themselves at each other with a reckless fury the battle destroys the Iron Will Brigade however it also claims the Jade Falcon Eyrie and First Jade Falcon Armour (formerly the Fifteenth Provision Garrison) Clusters. On Morges saKhan Emily Helmer oversees the destruction of the Wolf (in-Exile) clusters the First Wolf Strike Grenadiers and the Fourth Mountain Guards. Initially the Wolves offer the Jade Falcons a Trial of Possession for the planet however the Jade Falcons refuse to take the Exiles call instead hitting them with their full force. When surviving ground forces retreat towards their DropShips the Silver Talon targets their ships from orbit destroying each in turn ensuring none of the Exiles escape.
Pushing onto the world of Great X the attacking Jade Falcons are destroyed by the Charlestown Chiefs and Millie's Marauders Mercenary Commands. The BattleMech heavy force of the Marauders holding the line while the Chiefs lighter machines and Swallow WiGEs continually struck at the flanks of the Falcons until they had driven them back. From the wreckage the Chiefs salvage a Viper 3 BattleMech which replaces a lost Mech while the Millie's Marauders salvage a Mad Cat Mk III and a Mad Cat Mk II Enhanced all three salvaged Mechs would take months to repair but would be fearsome additions once repaired.
Star League Defence Force Announcement
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
8th December 3093
Despite the objections of the Houses Liao and Kurita the Star League Defence Force announces an increased spending plan for 3094. Commanding-General Archer Christifori announces from his base on Thorin the commissioning of another M5 Casper Drone added for now to the defence fleet of Terra. He also announces that there are a further five vessels in various stages of activation and plans to expand the Casper fleets beyond Terra should Star League Protectorate worlds welcome their presence.
He acknowledges that drones are not a popular form of technology and that in some places they will never be an accepted form of defence. As a result the SLDF plans to raise three new Brigade sized ground force units before the turn of the century with recruits welcome from across the Inner Sphere. He also announces that due to the success of the Guard Regiments the SLDF will assist a further three Star League Protectorate Worlds in raising their own Guard Regiments.
While the Capellan and Combine governments believe that the expenditure on the SLDF is already excessive and that expanding a force that is accountable to no-one but their Commanding-General. Archer Christifori points out that the SLDF are accountable to the First Lord who is one of the Succession Lords. The Lyran Commonwealth's Archon Peter Steiner-Davion is one of the most vocal supporters of the SLDF and their expansion, given the continued heavy fighting along his nation's Clan border this is little surprise.
Offensive action
Capellan Confederation border
10th December 3093
The Capellan Confederation strike back against the Magistracy of Canopus and Oriente Protectorate launching strikes on Ryerson (Oriente) and Fagerholm (Magistracy). Not intending on taking either world the Capellans instead go about taking apart the defensive forces and all military facilities on both worlds, flattening every structure and removing all salvage, showing exactly what the Confederation is capable of sending a clear message to their neighbours.
Interstellar Expeditions Mission Santiago
Unknown system, Deep Periphery
14th December 3093
The Interstellar Expeditions JumpShip Munez had jumped into an unknown system of the deep periphery. For the last two months the ship had been jumping system to system under hire from the Lyran Commonwealth following an increase in raids along the periphery border. So far of four systems surveyed they had found nothing except dust and long dead remains.
This system was different however almost as soon as the JumpShip had emerged in the system the ship received several messages from warning beacons stating that the system was Rim Worlds Republic Outpost 27 and off limits to all visitors. As the Interstellar Expeditions crew had enough environmental suits and hazardous survival gear to survive in nearly any environment the JumpShip's single DropShip the Rasputin, a truly ancient Czar-class DropShip, that had been repaired, upgraded and rebuilt more times than was likely safe, detached from the vessel and traveled in system for two days.
Almost three days later the vessel slowly entered orbit and began to scan the surface of the planet. Instead of finding a hostile environment they found a pleasant world that was not only capable of having a population it actually had one. Before the DropShip could react four aerospace fighters moved on the vessel firing warning shots over the ship's bow forcing the ship into the atmosphere. The DropShip was escorted to the ground landing within an exact replica of Avalon City as it was during the Star League-era.
As the ship landed it was quickly surrounded by ten BattleMechs and a large group of Elementals the crew and passengers were quickly forced to surrender and abandon the vessel. From above the ground in one of the buildings the Stone Spirit leadership watched over the captured crewmen of the DropShip.
Tanya Furey stood at the windows watching this was the day she had expected turning to her leader Tina Campbell “as I said they will not leave us alone. The Mandrills, the Lyrans, the dezgra Star League, even the other Clans will continue to harass us until we are destroyed.†She said angrily
“The captured JumpShip was Interstellar Expeditions†Tor McFadden said “they are not directly afflicted with any state they are dedicated to exploration. These people are no threat to us the most they have are security assets.â€
“And what will follow them?†Star Colonel Jasper Osis asked he was of the former Stone Rhino warriors and also one of Tanya Furey's strongest supporters. Although not old enough to remember the days of Clan Smoke Jaguar he had heard the stories from Tanya and that was enough. Many of the other former Stone Rhinos, and now their children, felt the same way way while the former Blood Spirits would have preferred to remain hidden in the Periphery.
“If we remain hidden nothing†Star Colonel Cameron Schmitt suggested “their JumpShip was overrun before they could jump away and they lack a Hyper Pulse Generator to communicate beyond this star system. Their disappearance will be put down to a miss-jump nothing more. If we remain hidden then they may never return.â€
“Just like the Clans may have let us live on York?†Star Colonel Harper Cluff suggested he was the youngest of the Blood Spirit descendants that had risen to command within the Stone Spirits. Recently he had been listening a lot to Osis and Furey it seemed today was the moment that his choice was made. “We have expanded out here. Our Iron Wombs have been re-established under the Forbidden City†he said naming the replica of the Capellan capitol city which had been chosen as the Stone Spirits new capital. “We have found much of the hidden wealth left behind by the Great Father in case the SLDF had to retreat from the Hegemony.†He said there was a series of caches that the SLDF had left behind before beginning the Liberation campaign for the most part it was equipment that the SLDF couldn't repair in time or did not have the transport capabilities available to move. “We should not be afraid of who we are or what we are capable of.†He said carefully supporting the Stone Rhino faction without actually saying it Tina Campbell almost smiled at his play.
“What do you suggest Harper Cluff?†Cameron Schmitt asked seeing Tina Campbell was impressed with the man's suggestion. Under the rules of the Stone Spirits each of them had an equal say in how their people were led.
“We make sure that the Rim Collection and Lyran Commonwealth keep their distance.†He suggested “we hit them hard once then we allow them to make the next choice.â€
“Aff, we hit them†Jasper Osis said “I will strike at the Rim Collection.â€
“They are my enemy†Tanya Furey said angrily Cassandra Faraday had been the first but would not be the last of the former Mandrills to die to her forces.
“Not this time†Tina Campbell said seeing a rift between the two Stone Rhinos planning on exploiting it. “Jasper Osis your cluster will strike at the Rim Collection. We should all know who our enemies are.†Jasper nodded and left the room “Tanya Furey, there are plenty more worlds around us you can strike at.â€
“Fine†Tanya Furey said “I will interrogate the Interstellar Expeditions party and choose from the worlds they have recently visited. I will erase them from memory†she said following the other warrior from the room.
“The rest of us will strengthen our defences. I want to accelerate our fortification process and our graduation of training warriors.â€
“The quality of our troops will lower†one of them an elder male warrior said
“Solahma our troops training and quality will be better than you ever were†Tina snapped “they will ensure that York never happens again.†She promised the Stone Spirits would not become what her former Clan became.
Hellraiser Productions
Orbital Facility, Fletcher
Oriente Protectorate, Former-Free Worlds League
17th December 3093
Building on the dry-dock DropShip repair facility constructed and run by Free-Flight Limited Hellraiser Productions construct three shipyard slips capable of producing the Monolith-class JumpShip. This construction is the biggest of its kind in the Oriente Protectorate and the first interstellar shipyard. To mark this achievement Captain-General Jonas Halas travels to Fletcher to commission the facility and announce that additional Oriente-class Orbital Gun Platforms would be produced and deployed within the system enhancing its protection. The construction of a shipyard in the system brings an influx of new citizens to the world as the families of the engineers travel to the world increasing the support the mountainous world needs. Due to the massive food imports required to the world consideration is made to construct orbital gardens to feed the population on the ground due to the lack of space on the ground.
Scouting Mission
Unclaimed World, “Repair Base 77â€
Periphery
22nd December 3093
Monica Able piloted her Mech, a Bear Cub, said to be a redesign from the ones used by the Rasalhague Dominion, off the DropShip ramp. How the Mandrills had come up with a Ghost Bear design was beyond her, she was just happy the light Mech was hers. The Mech itself was a gift from her father, Frank Able, after it was announced roughly six months ago her unit, the Fourth Rim Regulars Supernova, would become the first in the newly formed Rim Regulars Galaxy to be updated to full cluster status. It was also one of the most advanced in her unit which for the most part used old periphery or second hand Lyran designs.
At first, she was flabbergasted at the decision. A mere three years ago, she was serving as a fresh lieutenant in the Rim Collection Militia’s Second Combined Arms Battalion, piloting a Commando, and waiting for a spot in the Lancers to open up, if one ever did. That all changed when Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga of Clan Fire Mandrill had arrived. At first, everyone thought the Collection was under invasion from a clan none of them thought that life would be the same again. For nearly a month, everyone was on edge and it seemed the civilians she was sworn to protect would panic. Then the Mandrills opened talks and life had never been the same since.
Since then, many changes had happened to the tiny Collection, almost all directly attributed to the clanners. Exploration, limited recolonization, a relocation of a settlement and factory, a war, and then a following peace treaty had enabled all that. Especially the last two. The war and resulting peace treaty showed the Rim Collection could finally protect itself and the people's belief in the Able family especially Monica's grand-father had increased now they stood on their own feet something the entire Collection was proud of.
And that belief had led to this point now she was a Star Colonel her unit was still technically a garrison unit but now it was what the clanners called a garrison cluster, comprised of two full mechanized infantry supernovas, an armor binary supernova, an air assault supernova, with a command binary of second line light BattleMechs and a star of clan-tech aerospace fighters. From what she understood, the rest of the Regulars would eventually form clusters similar to her own cluster, carving a much needed niche in the Rim Collection Touman. That was a few years down the road, she knew, for the formation of her very own cluster was more of a publicity stunt to show the newer members the Collection was watching over them than an actual plan to reform the Regulars at the current time. Some she knew were against the conversion of the Rim Collection forces into the clan styled formations but she hoped that the performance of her new unit would win over the doubters. Here on the border they were teamed with the First Striker Cluster from the Mandrill Galaxy setting up base on an unknown world, the only record of it was "Repair Base 77" reportedly a former Rim Worlds Republic base, a high profile deployment.
The world was essentially a dumping ground for old, damaged equipment, she had decided, as she piloted her Bear Cub she passed a dusty old Mech, half buried in sand and dust, which appeared somewhat like a Shadow Hawk but the shoulder autocannon was missing as was much of the upper torso. All around her, mounds of equipment, vehicles, and destroyed Mechs littered the area so far they had not identified a single structure on the planet. The dropsite they had picked was just one of hundreds of sites, all pretty much the same sand, dust, and equipment everywhere salvage galore, but it would take painstaking time to grab what equipment was still valuable, if there was any. From a couple of the places they had flown over it looked like pirates or salvage crews had come here before what had driven them away was a mystery.
Monica began dropping sensor pods from the dispenser on board her Mech. Like the other two Bear Cubs planet-side, she was setting up a sensor net around the base. Not for the millionth time already this trip, she wished they had sent an actual scout force and not her garrison cluster. That and that the Mandrills had assigned her cluster with Fortress DropShips the Mandrills had. That request, however, was denied, stating they were for front line operations only. Instead, she would have to stick with the three Overlord-C DropShips they originally assigned to her unit, not that they were bad ships, but you would think they would assign a combined arms cluster with DropShips built for that use, she thought snidely, as she dropped another sensor pod.
For two more hours she continued dropping the sensor pods until the full set were dropped before she began to journey back to the DropShips, passing two Bulldog Medium Tanks on the way. Soon, she had made it to her DropShip and had backed her Bear Cub into an alcove. Getting out, she began setting to work on cleaning all the dust and sand accumulated on the trip making small talk with some of the technicians and fellow pilots and soldiers while they did the same with their machines. The one thing that may have defeated anyone else who came here.
Just as she completed washing all the dust and sand off her Mech and was filling out paperwork, an alarm sounded. She quickly ran to her Mech and jumped into the jumpseat. Grabbing the comm headset, she clicked on the radio. “Alpha One, Regulars here. Sitrep,†she spoke into the radio.
“Unknown Star Colonel. We were ordered by Star Colonel Lopez to full action stations. Switching you to Strikers Alpha One now,†answered back the comm officer manning her DropShip.
After a few moments, a different voiced came through her radio, belonging to Star Colonel Jessica Lopez, the clanner commander of the First Strikers. “Star Colonel, this is Alpha One, Strikers. My Beta-One-Four just discovered a Stone Spirit force hunkered down in a mountain range on the other side of the planet. Situational meeting in fifteen mikes on board your DropShip. Quiaff?â€
“Yes ma’am. Situational meeting on board the Cackling Macaque in fifteen mikes,†she repeated back to the other Star Colonel. Once the other woman shut the radio connections, she switched back to the Cackling Macaque’s comm officer. “I want all Star Majors in CIC in five mikes. Star Major MacTaggert is to be on radio with CIC, as is Star Captain Margaret Mattila. Fighter Star to be on emergency five until I know what is happening. Over.â€
“Aff,†the clanner comm officer answered back to her.
Climbing down, she waited for the clanners to arrive. While she waited, she thought of what she knew so far. The First Striker's Beta Trinary was one of two Specialist trinaries in that cluster and was assigned to scout for another base on the opposite side of the planet, for the First Strikers. One-Four meant the unit that had found the Stone Spirits were part of the unit’s first elemental star, specifically the fourth point. Soon, a group of Fire Mandrill warriors had arrived. Two of what the clanners called Elemental stock and one of MechWarrior stock. Being an Elemental, Jessica Lopez easily stood out.
“Ma’am,†she called out to the clan woman, jumping to attention and saluting her, only to be waved down. That little action reminded her the Mandrills were not big on protocols, instead focusing more on close relationships with one another.
As she readied herself into a ready stance with her hands behind her back, Star Colonel Lopez, a dark skinned woman, began speaking, filling her in on the situation as she joined the group of Mandrill warriors heading deeper into the DropShip. “My Beta-Four literally ran into a Stone Spirit scout team and a small fire fight erupted before its air transport picked them up. No casualties, thank Kerensky. Though now the dezgra Spirits know we are here and planet side. Your supernova commanders know of the meeting, quiaff?â€
“Yes ma’am. I notified them of the meeting right after you contacted me,†Monica reported to the other woman.
“Good,†was the clanner’s simple response. Soon, the group reached the CIC room, where her Star Majors were already waiting for them. As her supernovas stood at attention and saluted them, Star Colonel Lopez again waved them down. At least I am not the only one who feels uncomfortable with the lack of military protocol, Monica thought to herself as she joined her Star Majors.
“Here is the situation. Nearly an hour ago, a Specialist Elemental point of mine, Beta-One-Four, literally ran into a Stone Spirit Elemental star here.†As she spoke, she turned on the holo-projector then zoomed in on an area just south of a mountain region on the other side of the planet. “Their transport managed to get to them in time before they could be overrun and evacuated the point from the combat area. No casualties were reported and the point is on its way home, along with the rest of the trinary. Questions?â€
“What do we know of the Spirits, ma’am,†answered Star Major Allen Riley, commander of her Beta Supernova, the armor component of her cluster.
“Point Commander Suzanne reported a star of near-broken down Elementals and while being evac’ed out, spotted roughly a binary of well-maintained BattleMechs encroaching on their former position. The BattleMechs are all known second-line BattleMechs the Stone Spirits traditionally used as Clans Blood Spirit and Stone Rhino. That means they favor medium to heavy BattleMechs, updated with standard clan-tech.â€
Monica felt her insides drop hearing the last and quickly put the situation together in her head. Her cluster only held ten light Mechs, none heavier than its two new twenty-five ton Bear Cubs all that were a lot older than the pilots in them. She knew the First Strikers had a mix of light and medium OmniMechs and BattleMechs, with only three heavies in its force, two sixty ton Predator BattleMechs and Jessica Lopez’s seventy ton Thor OmniMech fortunately the balance of the force was made out of Clan technology so it did give them a significant edge. Together both clusters could field twenty-five ‘Mechs between them. If they faced a standard clan cluster, they would be outnumbered in Mechs, and likely only have a small edge in aerospace fighters. Their only real multiplier was their large numbers of power armor, primarily Nighthawks and Salamander Clan suits but also a squad of Longinus suits which again had appeared from nowhere, and their armour units. And that multiplier dropped significantly if the opposing Stone Spirits forces on the planet was designed like their Blood Spirit predecessors or was backed by one of the three vehicle clusters the Spirits were last known to have in its touman.
Altogether, she knew their options were limited. Either the Rim Collection abandoned this planet of potentially vastly importance to the Spirits or both clusters would need to rapidly build defensive positions while the two Specialist airborne trinaries of the First acted as a scouting force, watching over the Spirits as they did so. And Monica knew what the clanner woman across from her had decided, for she knew Jessica Lopez, as every other clanner she met, was itching to fight the Spirits and revenge the death of Kindraa Leader Cassandra Faraday.
No sooner then she came to this conclusion than did the towering Elemental woman began speaking, letting Monica know she was right in her beliefs. “We have no idea what kind of forces the Spirits have planet-side. Yet we know three things. One is the Spirits seemingly have a maintenance problem concerning their Elemental power armor, but unlike on Finmark, are maintaining their BattleMechs, suggesting the maintenance issue with the Elementals is merely a lack of a harjel supply and likely possibly a lack. Another is if they deployed an entire cluster as it traditional clan norm and they probably did, we are outnumbered in terms of ‘Mechs, though we likely outnumber them in Elementals and other power armor and possibly armor if we are lucky. Last is their lack of JumpShips and likely DropShips, suggesting we have an advantage in being able to rapidly deploy our clusters if needed. Quiaff?â€
Monica noticed the clanner woman was looking directly at her. “Yes ma’am,†she cited to the other star colonel, knowing she was right and kicking herself for not thinking about either of those advantages they held and only thinking of their disadvantages.
Looking around the room, the clanner woman continued. “So long as we have the latter advantage, we will remain on this planet and contest it. Until we know more of the enemy numbers and equipment, however, we are not, repeat not, to initiate combat, though we will defend ourselves. Quiaff?â€
“Yes ma’am,†and “Aff,†answered the senior star colonel as she gave the order, as Monica and the other Rim Collection officers and their clan warrior allies answered the burly Elemental.
“My Gamma Trinary will set observation posts along this river here," the large Elemental clan woman informed, pointing an area roughly two hundred klicks south of where the Spirits were spotted, close enough to keep an eye on them through the Kirghiz OmniFighters, but far enough way to easily evac if needed. For another twenty minutes, they developed a rough plan to defend themselves if needed, mostly revolving around the use of their DropShips to move their clusters around the planet if they were in any danger of fighting a pitch battle.
Finally satisfied with the plans for now, Star Colonel Jessica Lopez spoke. "Return to your posts. Remember any unit that encounters the Spirits is ordered to fall back and report the encounter as soon as they can. Star Colonel Able, stay behind,†the Elemental ordered. As soon as the star captains and star majors from both clusters had left the room, leaving only the two star colonels and the skeleton HQ staff remaining, the burly Elemental turned to the clanner comm officer. “Get me priority HPG contact with Galaxy Marshal Stephanie Bush immediately.†After the clan Technician gave his ascent and turned his back to the two women, Lopez continued. “As star colonel of your cluster, you must identify when to stay and fight and when to run and fight another day. While running is perfectly allowable, given our position, we can just as easily maintain a presence on this world due to our advantage in mobility via DropShips. You understand, quiaff?â€
“Yes ma’am, I do. I should have identified their weakness and not just think of our own while I was reviewing the situation mentally earlier,†Monica answered the Elemental woman before shifting her eyes down, resting them on the holo-projector, again mentally kicking herself for not doing so.
“That is why our clusters are working together. You and your cluster are here for hands on learning. And ours is to learn to keep our patience around you freebirths and learn to work together,†the burly Elemental replied with a feral smirk.
“Yes ma’am!†Monica answered the larger woman with her own smirk after looking up and meeting the eyes of the star colonel and seeing no condescension for her or her subordinates, just plain humor. A few minutes later, HPG contact was made with Galaxy Marshal Stephanie Bush and both began informing her of the presence of Clan Stone Spirit on Repair Base 77 and their decision to maintain their presence and contest the world against the Spirits.
Mercenary Assignment
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
23rd December 3093
Following a series of raids attributed to Clan Nova Cat the Filtvelt Coalition hire a series of small Mercenary commands to supplement their planetary defences. One such command is a recently formed unit named McCandless' Wranglers a unit formed by ex-AFFS officers, enlisted and technical personnel. This unit which is approximately a combined-arms battalion in strength and is commanded by Major Moira McCandless they are assigned to supplement the defences of Morven.
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30 pages on BT 40 pages on OBT!!
Wow!!
Thanks for all the support for everyone who has ever read this thread - even if you haven't commented the amount of views and support have been amazing!! Special thanks to Knightmare for setting up this section on OBT having everything together is awesome!!
I've updated the Map thread they are not too pretty but hopefully pass the idea of how this thread is going. I'm going to update the short version of the timeline very soon as well.
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Ever think of doing a fanbook with all this? Be pretty cool going over all the years maybe add in a map or two for all your changes. Congrats, keep up all the fine fiction!
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The best way for the Stone Spirits to stay hidden would be for them to not make themselves known.
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I've updated the Map thread they are not too pretty but hopefully pass the idea of how this thread is going. I'm going to update the short version of the timeline very soon as well.
Sorry I have not been able to help more with that.
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Ever think of doing a fanbook with all this? Be pretty cool going over all the years maybe add in a map or two for all your changes. Congrats, keep up all the fine fiction!
Been considering a Field Manual/Field Report type document but to be honest have not a single clue where to start
The best way for the Stone Spirits to stay hidden would be for them to not make themselves known.
As far as many of them are concerned they've been found. The Interstellar Expeditions arrival to the Stone Spirits is like the Outbound Light arrival in the Huntress system. They've also fought border skirmishes with the Fire Mandrills who reside in the Rim Collection more than a little fear is driving them although the Jaguar/Rhino blood in them would never admit it.
I've updated the Map thread they are not too pretty but hopefully pass the idea of how this thread is going. I'm going to update the short version of the timeline very soon as well.
Sorry I have not been able to help more with that.
Considering your own AU is on hold I can't complain too much
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Ever think of doing a fanbook with all this? Be pretty cool going over all the years maybe add in a map or two for all your changes. Congrats, keep up all the fine fiction!
Been considering a Field Manual/Field Report type document but to be honest have not a single clue where to start
The best way for the Stone Spirits to stay hidden would be for them to not make themselves known.
As far as many of them are concerned they've been found. The Interstellar Expeditions arrival to the Stone Spirits is like the Outbound Light arrival in the Huntress system. They've also fought border skirmishes with the Fire Mandrills who reside in the Rim Collection more than a little fear is driving them although the Jaguar/Rhino blood in them would never admit it.
I've updated the Map thread they are not too pretty but hopefully pass the idea of how this thread is going. I'm going to update the short version of the timeline very soon as well.
Sorry I have not been able to help more with that.
Considering your own AU is on hold I can't complain too much
Great update as always DC, i'm sure some of us would be happy to help you with the write up's if you give us the direction, instead of a Field Manual style book why not go for something along the lines of the old Battletechnology magazine? Some news reports, unit briefs, tech readout, merc hiring hall.
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Into 3094
3094
Lyran Commonwealth Field Base
Sudeten Space Port, Sudeten
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
2nd January 3094
Dropping down from his damaged Fafnir Assault BattleMech Archon Peter Steiner-Davion walked across the cracked tarmac meeting Khan Patrik Fetladral half way between the Fafnir and the Khan's Dire Wolf OmniMech. In an effort to save his public image and support the Lyran Commonwealth's failing morale Archon Peter Steiner-Davion had hatched a plan with Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Khan Patrik Fetladral.
The Archon's Second Royal Guard RCT and the First Commonwealth Guard RCTs supported by Clan Wolf (in-Exile)'s Alpha Galaxy, the entire Archon's Pride Battle-group and the Wolf (in-Exile) WarShip Werewolf had forced their way onto Sudeten rapidly securing the space port. Lyran and Exile Intelligence had suggested that Clan Jade Falcon's recent assault on the Lyran Commonwealth had been a “paper-tiger†offensive with their Capitol world left barely defended.
Initially the Lyrans had encountered the Falcon's Nest, a Texas-class Battleship, and the Jade Talon, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, defending the world which was unexpected but with six WarShips in support the Lyran and Wolf ground forces had pushed on landing on the world quickly crushing the Tenth Provisional Garrison Cluster of Kappa Galaxy.
“As expected limited resistance†Patrik Fetladral said gruffly approaching the Archon
“Their aerospace forces gave us a run on our entry†Peter suggested the LCS Commonwealth, a Coventry-class Corvette, had been destroyed protecting the LCAF and Exile ground forces.
“To be expected†Patrik Fetladral said it was likely not one of the crewmen had survived the corvette's destruction while the other WarShips of their task force was still heavily engaged including the Archon's daughter Jessica Steiner.
“Indeed, you do know we'll never hold this world? When the Falcons recover they will return and they will crush us.†The Archon said in a matter-of-fact way.
“Aff, I am aware†the Wolf Khan said angrily he would very much have wanted to remain on this world and hold it but he knew that the Jade Falcons would come back and hit them with their full force. “However while we are here Hamarr is within our grasp as is the Jade Falcon garrison.â€
“We can destroy them†the Archon agreed as a massive explosion lit up the afternoon sky over the Jade Falcon capital “Anvil to Hammer, command report†Peter said rapidly raising a radio to his mouth.
“Anvil, this is Hammer Actual†his daughter replied from the bridge of the LCS Archon's Pride “the Jade Falcons will be missing their Aegis in the morning. The Falcon's Nest is clear of the planet you are clear to continue operations.†She reported Peter realized that the explosion had been the Jade Talon.
“Then we continue†Peter said looking at the Wolf Khan who smiled in a wordless reply before turning back to his OmniMech immediately taking his Mech back towards the front-lines Peter quickly returned to his own Assault BattleMech and prepared to follow the Clansmen.
Over the course of the next week the Wolf (in-Exile) and Lyran Commonwealth force eliminated the Seventeenth and Nineteenth Provisional Garrison Clusters and successfully captured the majority of Hamarr while holding back several attempted counter-attacks by the Jade Falcons flattening several Jade Falcon production facilities during their occupation of the city.
On the eighteenth the Jade Falcon's Night Talon and Silver Talon, two Nightlord II-class Battleships, jumped into the system with enough transports to carry four to five Clusters. Not willing to attempt to hold off against this massive firepower Peter Steiner-Davion ordered a retreat from the system using the four days travel time to load as much salvage onto the Lyran and Wolf DropShips as they could. Boosting off the planet on the twenty-first the Lyran and Wolf ground forces joined their WarShips just as the leading elements of the Jade Falcons entered maximum range.
Shielded by the Werewolf, LCS Archon's Pride, LCS Mount Wotan and LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood the ground forces began to make their way towards waiting JumpShips at a pirate point. Without holding back anything the two Jade Falcon Nightlord II's charged down on the Lyran and Wolf WarShips intent on breaking through and destroying the DropShips. The Werewolf flanked by the similarly armed Mount Wotan and Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood poured broadside after broadside of Naval particle cannon into the incoming Jade Falcon WarShips turning them away from the ground forces but not away from them. The two battleships unloaded their full broadside firepower back at the defending WarShips causing heavy damage to the Werewolf and Lyn Hood while smashing the Jump Drive of the Mount Wotan. Unable to jump the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser turned on the two Jade Falcon vessels in the ultimate game of interstellar “chicken†firing as it went the vessel targeted the Silver Talon however this opened the ship up to fire from the vessel's sister ship which tore the Heavy Cruiser to pieces. This distraction allowed the remaining Lyran and Exile vessels to pull ahead of the Jade Falcons rendezvous with their JumpShips and escape the Sudeten system.
This attack was not designed just to hurt the Jade Falcons it was also designed to distract and distupt the defences of the Clan Occupation Zone. The Second Kell Hounds Regiment commanded by Lt Colonel Christian Kell assaulted Koniz along with the Junkyard Dogs breaking the Jade Falcon garrison forces while the Snord's Irregulars and the Twentieth Arcturan Guards RCT assaulted Benfled liberating that world.
Royal Wedding
Samantha City, Taurus
Taurian Concordat
8th January 3094
At a lavish ceremony on Taurus Protector Erik Martens-Calderon marries former Nova Cat warrior Sonja Rosse. With guests invited from the Fronc Reaches, Magistracy of Canopus, St Ives Compact, Capellan Confederation and the Federated Suns. Although Sonja Rosse is unhappy to be marrying Erik in her pregnant state the couple marry without complications in front of their international guests.
Commonwealth Mint and Reserve Bank
Australia, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
12th January 3094
With the LCAF stretched engaging the Jade Falcons the Omega Crime Syndicate assaults the corporate defences of the Commonwealth Mint and Reserve Bank. The facility one of the most heavily fortified in the entire Coventry district was vitally important to Lyran Commonwealth business and personal savings. As the Omega Crime Syndicate's two companies of modified Mechs and combat vehicles moved in on the bank's fixed defences the First Pathfinder Battalion “The Drop Bears†Mercenary Command dropped in all around the Bank supplementing their corporate defence force and fixed defences. The unit commanded by Leutenant-Colonel John “Jumper†Argive had been formed in the Lyran Commonwealth by former members of the LCAF each member was fully trained in making a parachute jump and all members of the unit were trained in the use of heavy weapons and Battle Armour suits, although the unit only had enough Battle Armour suits for half their members.
For nearly four hours the mercenary command fought a defensive battle although the Bank's fixed defences and fortifications took heavy damage not a single one of the pirates got into the bank's vaults or hurt a single one of the people within its walls. For the successful defence the Drop Bears were hired on a permanent contract with the bank. Argive agrees to assist in the defence of the bank and make Australia the unit's base world he informs the bank owners and the LCAF that the unit will be taking contacts beyond Australia as well as defending the bank.
Counter-attack
Clipperton, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
14th January 3094
On hearing that Clan Sea Fox's WarShips had retreated from the system the Principality of Regulus' the Seventh Regulan Hussars Regiment supported by a squadron of assault DropShips moved in on the Clipperton system intent on recapturing the shipyards.
Arriving at the nadir point the unit began to travel into the system only for the Athena to jump almost directly onto of them after executing a near perfect inter-system jump. The escorts of the Regulan Hussars attempted to approach the Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser however the Wolf's Dragoons WarShip's response is immediate and deadly cutting to pieces two Regulan DropShips before the Principality forces retreated from the system.
Leadership Transfer
Capolla, Star League Protectorate
20th January 3094
Following in the footsteps of Terra Firma the world of Capolla leaves the Federated Suns and joins the Star League Protectorate in an agreement between the Star League Council the Federated Suns leadership. From New Syrtis and Kathil further questions are asked of the Federated Suns leadership on how many more worlds they are willing to move to Star League leadership. The First Prince's office on New Avalon they point out that Capolla and Terra Firma have been linked for centuries since the early Succession Wars and that having both run by the Star League Protectorate would leave less strain on the Capellan March and make allow the AFFS in the region to concentrate on the Capellan Confederation.
Hell's Horses Counter-attack
Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
27th January 3094
On the worlds occupied by the Serpents Clan Hell's Horses engage in a series of Trials of Possession. Cut off from any sort of leadership its almost as if the renegade Serpent warriors see the writing on the walls and fight token battles against the Hell's Horses, the Hell's Horses agree with the Serpents who agree to these terms that should the Serpents forces be victorious they will be given a choice to leave the Hell's Horses Occupation Zone using captured Serpents JumpShips or join Clan Hell's Horses.
In the total of the fourteen worlds fought over the Hell's Horses are victorious in eleven such worlds losing only on The Rock, Toland and Paulus Prime. On Toland and Paulus Prime the forces agree to join the Hell's Horses forming the Thirty-third BattleMech Cluster under former Cloud Cobra warrior Star Colonel Revan Kardaan. The unit is directly attached to the Hell's Horses Stampede of Steel Galaxy and has a Hell's Horses Watch unit directly attached to it. On the world of The Rock the Serpents forces, roughly a cluster in strength, choose to take the other option heading into the Periphery.
Due to the internal problems brewing within Clan Jade Falcon Khan Jake Kabrinski personally leads elements of Clan Hell's Horses to the last hold out of the Serpents within the Castle Brian fortification on Apollo. For nearly forty-two hours Kabrinski and his warriors systematically take apart the remains of the fortress which had come under heavy attack by the SLDF, various pirate, Succession State and Clan forces over the years. In the process of destroying the Castle Brian the Hell's Horses eliminate the last warriors of the Serpents finally re-securing their occupation zone.
Ruins of Clan Jade Falcon Hall
Hamarr, Sudeten
Occupation Zone
29th January 3094
Despite the successes Clan Jade Falcon against the Lyran Commonwealth the devastating attack on Sudeten had brought Khan Bryan Pryde back to the Jade Falcon capitol world. Standing in the centre of the ruined Jade Falcon hall the Khan scowled at the destruction the Lyran and Exile troops had caused. Stepping into the room Star Colonel Ruel Chistu, the commander of the Eighth Talon Cluster, approached the Khan.
“Bryan Pryde†the Star Colonel said glancing around the ruined hall
“Star Colonel†the Khan replied looking back at the man he was dressed in a simple camouflage jumpsuit.
“We have been successful against the Lyrans Khan Pryde†Chistu said “and while I am sure you are happy to reap the rewards for your successes. You must also answer for the losses you have caused.â€
“Those losses have already been paid for†Bryan Pryde snapped back his first action on returning to Sudeten had been to execute every surviving Bloodnamed Warrior from the garrison commands that had failed to defend the planet and to disband Kappa Galaxy splitting the warriors throughout the Jade Falcon Touman.
“Neg, it was you that put them in the positions†Ruel Chistu said accusingly stepping closer to Bryan Pryde. “You decided that we should assault both the Lyran Periphery and Arc Royal. You stretched us beyond what we could manage.†He said “and now our homeworld lies in ruins.â€
“It will not be our first homeworld or our last†Bryan Pryde pointed out Strana Mechty and Ironhold had both been considered capitals of the Jade Falcons. One day Sudeten would burn and the Falcons would care little for it.
“Aff, you are correct†Ruel Chistu said “however this is our home today†he said “this hall is ours and it has been broken because of your negligence.†The warrior said angrily “Bryan Pryde, I challenge you to a Circle of Equalsâ€
“A Circle of Equals will not win you the leadership of this Clan.â€
“I am but a Star Colonel, my Khan, others are better placed than I.†Ruel Chistu said innocently “I would have to win the support of far better placed individuals than me to take over as our new Khan.â€
“Why have YOU returned instead of the saKhan?†Bryan Pryde asked suddenly thinking about it Ruel Chistu had been with the Jade Falcon Galaxy supporting saKhan Emily Helmer's assaults on the Lyran Commonwealth.
“She allowed me to return to challenge you.â€
“And you believe that if you defeat me then she will support you, Quiaff?â€
“There are many possibilities†he said coyly Bryan Pryde was almost sick at the man's confidence they had not even engaged in battle and yet here was this Star Colonel was making plans to replace him he could feel his blood boil.
“Then let us get on with it†Bryan Pryde said rolling up his sleeves.
“Neg, my Khan tomorrow in front of our warriors we will fight and you will die.†Ruel Chistu said turning leaving the hall the Khan was tempted to call him back the Star Colonel who had no right to choose the time or the place for the Trial but he also knew that this was not the time or place he wanted witnesses when he destroyed Ruel Chistu.
The next day on the plains south of Hamarr the two engaged in BattleMech combat against each other surrounded by a Cluster of front-line Jade Falcons and several clusters of cadets, the future of the Jade Falcon Touman. Bryan Pryde's Jupiter BattleMech faced off against Ruel Chistu's Turkina OmniMech although one Mech was a standard Mech and the other a more advanced OmniMech the two Mechs were closely matched with long range missiles, autocannons and particle cannons although the Juipter had four such weapons compared to the Turkina's two weapons.
The two Mechs danced around each other for nearly forty minutes rapidly expending their ammo reserves. Ruel Chistu had been able to avoid some damage by using his OmniMech's built in jump jets but both Mechs had taken a pounding as each warrior went for the kill. After nearly sixty minutes however the toll had become too much for Bryan Pryde's BattleMech after suffering a series of engine damage hits. With as little compassion as Bryan Pryde had given the survivors of Kappa Galaxy Ruel Chistu finished off the Khan's Mech with a particle cannon blast targeted on the Jupiter's cockpit killing the Khan.
As Bryan Pryde's death had occurred in a Circle of Equals, an honour duel, there was a gap in the Jade Falcon's leadership with Ruel Chistu remaining a Star Colonel as the Jade Falcons and Lyran Commonwealth continued to do battle on half a dozen worlds. In the intern saKhan Emily Helmer led the divided Clan as word of Bryan Pryde's death spread.
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Excllent story update.
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Scientific Meeting
St Ives, St Ives Compact
6th February 3094
The St Ives Military Forces had swelled to nine combined-arms regiments in strength their weakest point was their lack of WarShip forces a gap which Prime Minister Melissa Allard-Liao had filled with Pocket WarShips purchased from the Federated Suns she believed that the St Ives Military could defend her people from a Capellan attack, at least long enough for the Federated Suns to support them. However today was a report that she had been dreading to hear for the last ten years St Ives had been hit by stronger and stronger snow storms during the winter months and shorter summer months. She had formed a scientific group from the citizens of all the remaining St Ives Compact worlds to investigate the possible causes into the worsening weather.
The group had spent months going over the data, consulting with the NAIS, Thorin University and other research facilities throughout Inner Sphere only to come to one conclusion. “Duchess, in one hundred years St Ives will be colder than Tharkad or New Syrtis with a layer of snow more than fifteen feet deep covering the planet.â€
“People live on Tharkad and on New Syrtisâ€
“Yes, Duchess, but those worlds Ice Ages are controlled by their populations†the doctor admitted “St Ives will fall into a natural Ice Age one that it will not emerge from for one hundred years or more.â€
“There is technology that can manage it†Melissa stressed “we can control this!†She said the volume of her voice raising.
“At the cost of your nation.†the Doctor stated flatly “the money you will put into this project will bankrupt the St Ives Compact and your family.â€
“What are our contingency plans?†Melissa asked
“A domed city or multiple domed cities is possible†the scientist said seeing the Duchess turn slightly white at the suggestion “however the only way to save larger numbers of the population is to begin evacuations.â€
“Evacuations?†Melissa said stunned at the prospect.
“Slowly†one of Melissa's other advisers suggested “we have one hundred years. We create oppertunties for our people beyond St Ives. We move industry from St Ives to other worlds and with them their workers travel.â€
“The lower population numbers will hopefully make hiding environmental change†the scientist suggested as Melissa rose from her chair and crossed to the windows.
“Make your plans†she said looking over the world of St Ives. She couldn't imagine the world looking like New Syrtis or Tharkad she though of her son Lucian and his children wondering what world they would live in.
Jade Falcon Raid
Bountiful Harvest
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
9th February 3094
In a raid directed by saKhan Emily Helmer the First Falcon Striker and the First Falcon Hussar Clusters assault Bountiful Harvest. Inspecting the facilities there is Lyran Commonwealth General of Armies Keane Sortek who refuses to be left behind friendly lines leading the Twenty-fourth Lyran Guards RCT from the front in his Hauptmann OmniMech.
Although initially the defenders make good progress against the Jade Falcons pushing them back to their landing zones however when a charge led by a star of Gryfalcon BattleMechs engaged and destroyed Keane Sortek's Mech the Lyran line colapsed in within itself. Taking command of the Lyran withdrawal General Thomas Hogarth masterminds the Lyran withdrawal from the planet leaving on one of the first DropShips. In the after action report, written by Hogarth, the General tells how he braved Jade Falcon space forces clearing the way for the rest of the Twenty-fourth to escape. He neglects to mention that the Jade Falcon space forces were made up of a single pair of aerospace fighters which were no match for the six Lyran DropShips that had taken off together.
Behind Jade Falcon lines the Clan trades the worlds of Bone-Norman, Somerset, Waldorff, Apolakkia and Devin to Clan Hell's Horses in exchange for several cluster of equipment including BattleMechs, Armoured Vehicles, Battle Armour Suits and aerospace fighters.
Clan Council
Alshian, Alshian District
Rasalhague Dominion
17th February 3094
Following the sudden death of Khan Bjorn Jorgensson from natural causes saKhan Ragnar Magnesson becomes Khan of the Rasalhague Dominion. In an almost orderly matter Loremaster David Bekker becomes the Clan's new saKhan while senior Star Admiral, and commander of the WarShip Silverdale, becomes the new Loremaster of the Clan.
A few days later on Sudeten Ruel Chistu is confirmed as the new Khan of Clan Jade Falcon after receiving the support of saKhan Emily Helmer. Few others challenge the new Khan despite Ruel's young age of twenty-five years.
Border Raids
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
25th February 3094
After two years on the sidelines the Wild Geese Mercenary Command participates in raids against Brighton and Vestallas, two occupied St Ives Compact planets. The Regimental Combat Troop and Blackhorse Squadron engage Capellan forces on Vestallas while delivering supplies to St Ives Compact loyal rebels. On Brighton the Ironhorse and Blackhorse Squadrons raided the Ambermarie's Highlanders which had been recuperating on the planet following the loss of a battalion of troops in a DropShip accident. Attacking Brighton at almost the same time was the First Janissaries Regiment of the St Ives Compact Armed Forces who combined with the mercenaries to destroy the defending Highlanders and the liberation the world.
Clan Raids
Bjarred, Bjarred Prefecture
Draconis Combine
29th February 3094
On their way to a Clan Council on Tukayyid Clan Nova Cat's Delta Galaxy commanded by Khan Canin Rosse raid the Draconis Combine's Bjarred Prefecture fighting on the worlds of Bjarred, Tarnby, Altona, Virentofta and Sapelfeld. On Bjarred and Sapelfeld the Nova Cats face off against elements of the Second Amphigean Light Assault Regiment. While holding off the DCMS defenders on Bjarred the Nova Cats destroyed a RetroTech factory run by Metals of the Earth Ltd. The factory had been producing primitive Gladiator BattleMechs without the knowledge of the DCMS high command. Before leaving the Nova Cats take several of the Mechs for study.
On the world of Tarnby the Nova Cat Dragoons fought with elements of the Tenth Pesht Regulars eliminating a Battalion of Draconis Combine troops before retreating. While further elements of the Nova Cats fought on Virentofta and Altona causing damage to the local militia forces.
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nice update. Just a question.... Who did Clan Jade Falcon trade the worlds to for equiptment? Clan Sea Fox or Ghost Bear?
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nice update. Just a question.... Who did Clan Jade Falcon trade the worlds to for equiptment? Clan Sea Fox or Ghost Bear?
An oversight now fixed - it's the Hell's Horses
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Three months of 3094 down already!! My thanks to James Tanaga with the continued excellent material from the Rim Collection's area of space.
A two parter for this month...
Border Raid
An Ting, Barlow's End PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
7th March 3094
The Seventh Sword of Light Regiment of the Draconis Combine raided the Federated Suns held border world of An Ting facing off against the newly arrived First McCarron's Armoured Cavalry and local milita forces. The DCMS force never threatens to take the world from the defenders however it does give several new warriors their combat debut including twenty year old Michiko Kurita, daughter of Warlord Minoru Kurita, piloting a brand new Dragon II Heavy BattleMech. After several hours of low intensity battle the DCMS Regiment retreats off planet leaving the system harried by AFFS aerospace fighters.
Lyran High Command
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
14th March 3094
Following the death of Keane Sortek fighting the Jade Falcons Lyran Archon Peter Steiner-Davion wastes no time in naming a new General of Armies. To most line officers and most of the enlisted officers the choice is surprising General Thomas Hogarth the “hero†of the Lyran evacuation from Bountiful Harvest. Hogarth is a long way from being Peter's first or even second choice, the man is little more than an “armchair general†of a bygone-era, however to the Estates Generals office sees promise in him as well as a way to control the General of Armies position shaping the future of the Lyran Commonwealth.
Fin's Landing
Caldarium, Rim Collection
Periphery
14th March, 3094
Following the discovery, and capture, of a second Interstellar Expeditions team in Stone Spirit Territory the Stone Spirits had moved up their timetable in dealing with their interstellar neighbours. While Tanya Furey commanded an expedition into the nearby periphery planets and the Lyran Commonwealth world of Main Street Jasper Osis had gotten his wish to strike at the Rim Collection and the Fire Mandrills residing there.
Not for the first time Star Colonel Jasper Osis had once again cursed, for the Rim Collection freebirth defenders had again outsmarted his Spirits, this time a report of a star of Salamanders starting fires in the fuel-bunkers near the factory complex before two stars of his own BattleMechs forced them to depart. His campaign against the Mandrills and their Collection allies on Caldarium had been like this since his cluster had destroyed the defending First Rim Assault Cluster, a force he judged to be only a mere supernova in strength at the time. While the cluster had heavy and assault BattleMechs, they were easily crushed as they strangely had charged his, alongside roughly three trinaries of armor that must of been part of the planet's militia forces, at a cost of only eleven of his BattleMechs and another seven damaged in some way, with much of his own armor trinary being destroyed, after his cluster concentrated fire onto the dezgra barbarians.
Now, though, just into the second week on this damn planet, he knew the Collection defenders had only thrown their heaviest units against his cluster to buy time for the evacuation of the BattleMech factory. While his cluster easily killed the Nighthawk-equipped infantry defending the factory, no civilians were found and since its capture, he had lost roughly an entire star of BattleMechs to unknown forces while another star was forced to withdraw from the dezgra Spheroids still around this the factory and the settlement called Fin's Landing.
Worse, the forty-two assault BattleMechs they had captured here in the factory were themselves a trap by the dezgra Spheroids. When his technicians had activated one, its fusion engines quickly overheated and went critical, nearly destroying the assault ‘Mech and killing his techs working on it before one had managed to shut down the war machine. While his chief technician had informed him the BattleMechs themselves were easily still functional, the need to reprogram or even replace their OS to counter the barbarian freebirth trap meant they could not be used immediately at least not until his technicians had purged their systems and basically started from scratch a mind-numbingly long and boring task. That meant loading the BattleMechs and the plentiful spare parts onto their DropShips, at a painstaking slow pace this was made worse as their DropShips were the target of the dezgra Collection aerospace fighters during their travel to the Stone Spirits vitally important JumpShips the Stone Spirits had in their possession. That necessitated his own fighters having to guard against them while his DropShips undertook painstaking maneuvers to keep them in between his fighters and the Collection’s. which meant using large amounts of fuel.
The Salamander attack on the fuel-bunkers was just the last of these cowardly attacks and, due to the fuel needs his DropShips had, meant the most damaging. While his two DropShips refueling there after the last of the captured OmniMechs were hauled on board were not damaged, it again highlighted the effect of the dezgra guerrilla tactics the freebirth barbarians were having against his forces. Strangely, most of these attacks were inside the BattleMech factory itself and not around the planet’s capital, where he knew another supernova-size cluster of BattleMechs and OmniMechs awaited his cluster.
Then, it dawned on him. Flicking on his radio, he yelled into it. “All forces! Spread out and check the entire factory complex now! From the biggest building to the smallest! The freebirth barbarians have a hidden base either inside the complex or have one nearby! And I want it destroyed last week! Quiaff!†As his warriors answered his orders with their acknowledgments, he allowed himself a feral grin, for he knew he would finally destroy the dezgra barbarians before he would have to retreat from this world.
“Well, that was that,†Star Captain Michael Nevversan said to himself as he half-listened into a conversation a group of Stone Spirit technicians were having near a well-hidden remote sensor the Fins had left behind, letting him know of the Spirits commander, a Star Colonel Jasper Osis, had just ordered his cluster to canvass the entire complex for his forces. A member of the entirely-Elemental Nevversan Bloodhouse, a former Smoke Jaguar Bloodname captured intact by the Faraday-Tanaga shortly after the Smoke Jaguar’s destruction, he was also the temporary commander of the Rim Collection’s forces contesting the vastly-important factory complex the Fins had relocated to Caldarium with, having been entrusted with the assignment after Star Colonel Takala’s death a week ago while in a successful holding action against the Spirits while the Fin and Caldarium civilians at the factory evacuated through the tunnels the Fins had built shortly after their arrival here a few years ago.
Flicking on his radio to the frequency his trinary and the First Assault Cluster were using, he spoke into it. “All Rim units surrounding the Rim Motors factory complex, we have been made. I repeat, we been had. Pull back through the tunnels or make your way through the mountains back to the Nineteenth Striker Cluster as soon as you can. My Salamanders will remain here to keep an eye on the Spirits. Quiaff?â€
As the clan warrior halfheartedly listened to the freeborn defenders of the Rim Collection’s First Assault Cluster acknowledged his orders, he was soon joined by another member of his bloodhouse, Yu Nevversan, newly bloodnamed after his actions on All Dawn against the Lyrans. His star had been only recently rotated into Michael’s command, as the Mandrills took stock of what the Lyrans invasion on All Dawn had cost them and what they had gained. “Five of six fuel bunkers destroyed, Star Captain,†the Star Commander reported to him. “I think I may have hit a hornet nest on the way out, for the Spirits were on our tails for much of our retreat,†the man joked, causing Michael to roll his eyes. While a capable warrior and one who seemingly had adjusted well to operating with the freeborn warriors of the Rim Collection, he wished Yu would be serious, for he and many of the Kindraa expected much of the warrior who enduring a hurricane to rescue a patrol of munchkins.
No, Clan, he reminded himself privately, for his kindraa and the remnants of Kindraa Mattila-Carrol were now a proper Clan although by a long way there were the smallest and were even more outcast than the Exiled Wolves they were Clan and that remained important. Deciding to ignore the younger warrior’s humor, he spoke to him. “Good. Are your Salamanders good to go?â€
“Aff. Though Becka took a laser shot to her left shoulder from a Great Wyrm,†the younger warrior of Elemental stock reported to him.
Michael grimaced, for a Salamander was not as armored as an Elemental. Still, the suit’s Har-jel likely would save the warrior. “Our freeborn allies should be retreating through the tunnels or scattering into the mountains to regroup to the Nineteenth Strikers in a little while. Make sure she is with them. Our two stars, meanwhile, will watch over the Spirits and relay information back to Star Colonel Brian Tanaga.†Both knew he regularly commanded a trinary in the field, yet their star of Kirgiz OmniFighters were with the rest of the Nineteenth, guarding the capital city of Caldarium, alongside the planet’s militia cluster, after dropping both their Salamander stars on the factory just as the Spirits were about to arrive on planet a week earlier.
“Aff, Star Captain. Should you fall, though, I will pull what survivors we have remaining back until our promised reinforcements arrive,†the younger warrior answered back. He was of course referring to elements from the First and Third Battle Clusters on Langhorne and Slewis, as well as promised support from the freeborn Collection units, mainly from Waypoint and Ormstown. The plan was for the Carrack-class corvette RCS Mandrill Provider and RCS Enduring Freedom, a Merchant-class JumpShip modified with an L-F battery and able to carry a star of fighters, would both jump in shortly before the promised reinforcements tomorrow around thirteen hundred hours, shortly before the promised reinforcements. The reinforcements would be under the command of Galaxy Martial Karen Able, who had been inspecting the Rim Collection base on Waypoint when the Spirits had arrived in system.
For the rest of the day and into the night, he and his warriors kept watch onto the factory complex, while he and another warrior would listen in on whatever conversations the Spirit technicians were having near the remote sensor. From what they heard, the suspected har-jel and spare parts shortage the Spirits were seen having on Repair Base 77 was confirmed, all the while slowly moving from place to place to avoid the furious Stone Spirit patrols.
The next day, shortly after thirteen hundred hours, Brian Tanaga had radioed in news of the arrival of the RCS Mandrill Provider and RCS Enduring Freedom and the vital reinforcements they protected. With that news came with it the chaotic evacuation of the Stone Spirits from the factory complex. His plans to quickly take the factory after their evacuation, however, went to smoke, as he overheard a Stone Spirit technician order two spare fusion engines to be overloaded right as their DropShips lifted through the hidden remote sensor.
Not an hour later, he and his warriors watched as the Stone Spirit DropShips left the planet. If he had any technicians with him or even MechWarriors, he would have led his warriors and them into the factory complex to the fusion engine and electronic components line, where the Stone Spirits had placed the overloading fusion engines at in an attempt to stop the engines from detonating, destroying them and causing heavy damage to the factory lines that, he knew, would necessitate time-demanding repairs. Ten minutes after the last of the DropShips had launched, he and his warriors watched from their place higher in the mountain as two vitally-important buildings in the factory erupted, causing fire and radiation to spread to other close-by buildings. Grimly, he slowly led his warriors down into the factory to ensure the dezgra Spirits had left no other surprises for them. As they did so, civilian Salamanders built for firefighting awaited word for the all-clear in the Kirgiz fighters and what shuttles were on planet.
Finally, having cleared the topside buildings of the factory, while the freeborn warriors of the First Assault Cluster did likewise in the tunnels below, he gave the all-clear to the awaiting shuttles and Kirgiz OmniFighters. As he watched each slowly land and firefighters in civilian Salamanders, as well as the remaining Salamanders of the Nineteenth Strikers disgorge from them, he had his warriors line up for a chance to replace their fire launchers for fire extinguishers, for they would soon be joining their fellow warriors and the freeborn civilians in fighting the now-blazing fire from destroying the factory. As they waited for their chance, he hoped the incoming reinforcements would catch the dezgra Spirits.
Three days later, as he finally marched to where his exhausted warriors had gathered, Karen Able radioed him the bad news, along with the entire planet. “This is Galaxy Marshal Karen Able. Last traces of the Stone Spirits have left the system, reaching their JumpShips shortly before they could be destroyed by our WarShips. Reinforcements are inbound and will arrive in the night. To those defending the factory, both Mandrill and Collection, well done. For those who died doing their duty or were honor-bound to do so, to the families and friends of them I say this. Their deaths were not in vain, as they protected the lives of civilians and defended a vitally important asset to the Rim Collection, that while badly damaged, is repairable from what I have been told. Their deaths will not be forgotten and will be avenged. You have my word, as an officer and warrior of the Rim Collection and an Able. Karen Able out.â€
‘She said the right things for both her freeborn people and for ours,’ Michael thought to himself as a technician helped him out of the Salamander battle armor he piloted. Looking on the haggard, yet determined faces of his warriors, he knew the freeborn woman’s words had reached them as well.
Yu spoke what had to be in the thoughts of all his warriors then. “Guess we’re going to war against the Spirits now. Good, for I was getting rather tired and restless having to sit and act like a good munchkin in the face of that treaty with the dezgra Lyrans.†And for once, Michael decided to not reprimand the younger warrior for using a contraction.
Stone Spirit Expansion
Lyran Periphery
22nd March 3094
As Jasper Osis and his troops struggled on Caldarium Tanya Furey had found that she had gotten lucky again. First to fall to her troops had been Ferusvirgo a barely inhabited rock occupied by the dregs of society who had fled the Succession Wars and the pirate attacks against some larger worlds. The inhabitants actually welcomed her troops without a shot fired. Next to follow were the pirate worlds of The Rack and Pain, Port Vail and Dijonne on some older maps and possibly those of the future, on these worlds her forces found far better equipped enemies who were willing to put up fight. Fortunately these pirate forces despite being better equipped were still divided by their petty differences and the Stone Rhinos under her command quickly occupied both shattering the defenders putting their leaders to death very publicly to put down further unrest before it started. The icing on the cake had been that during their time in The Rack system the Stone Spirits had captured five pirate owned interstellar vessels three were of the Invader-class JumpShip while the other two were Merchant-class vessels. These ships were ancient possibly dating back to the original Star League-era with the technology and resources the Stone Spirits had found in the Periphery they could turn them into vital parts of their growing territory.
Tanya Furey had then led her Cluster to the Lyran world of Main Street and engaged a combined-arms Battalion of the Seventeenth Lyran Guards Regiment who defended this far flung Lyran Commonwealth world. The Stone Spirit forces had rapidly gunned down the Lyran defenders capturing much of the Battalion as salvage. They had then rounded up the surviving technical crews herding them onto DropShips to be shipped out of the system. As a final act Tanya Furey had left a message with the surviving leadership of Main Street that should the Lyrans or the so-called Interstellar Expeditions continue to push into the Periphery then the Stone Spirits would push back.
Trade Negotiations, FSS Black Prince (Mercury-class Battleship)
Unnamed Periphery System
30th March 3094
As interstellar neighbours and some time allies the Federated Suns and Nova Cats often engaged in trade discussions. For the most part these took place at the Nova Cat Embassy or the Nova Cat Firebase on New Avalon however for these negotiations the Federated Suns had requested a deep space meeting. As this was an unusual meeting the Nova Cats had arrived in the unclaimed system with the Sandra Rosse, an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, and the Luna, a Bug-Eye Surveillance Craft, which had arrived at a separate point of the system to observe the negotiations. The Federated Suns force commanded by First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion himself had arrived three days after the Nova Cats with one of the largest vessels in known existence the FSS Black Prince, the Federated Suns recently launched Mercury-class Battleship. The massive red-and-black painted vessel was very obviously based on the Columbia-class vessel the Pegasus which the AFFS had hidden from centuries but this new ship was a very new class of WarShip which would likely challenge any other vessel in space for decades to come.
Once the Nova Cats had gotten over their shock at seeing the massive WarShip the Nova Cats had agreed to come over to the Black Prince to begin negotiations. Standing at the airlock Victor Steiner-Davion was flanked by a pair of Battle Armoured marines, one feature of the Black Prince and the Mercury-class was that the Battle Armour suited troopers could go anywhere without restriction unlike many older classes, as the door opened immediately the First Prince was shocked with who he saw “Yvonne?†He said looking at the woman in front of him she was older, her face had more lines on it, her red hair had a lot more gray to it but this was his younger sister.
“Victor†she said smiling stepping on board the Federated Suns vessel “nice toy you have. If you wished to make a statement the message was received loud and clear.†She said embracing him in a hug.
“It's not quite combat ready yet but she is the fastest ship we have. Where's Canin?†He asked he'd expected her husband the Nova Cat Khan to attend as far as Victor knew Yvonne had no current military standing in the Nova Cats.
“Currently the Khan is busy.†Yvonne said carefully he knew that she knew where he was but obviously could not say “instead Oathmaster Klick Lenardon will be conducting the negotiations†she said stepping to one side as the massive Nova Cat Elemental dressed in traditional leathers and wearing an intimidating Nova Cat mask.
“A pleasure to meet you†Victor greeted
“Of course†the man said not removing his mask
“This way†Victor said leading the Nova Cat party through the ship the Black Prince was a massive vessel dwarfing anything that Victor had ever traveled on before he'd gone along this route three times before the Nova Cat arrival to ensure that he didn't accidentally take a wrong turn. Fortunately they made it safely to the meeting room with Victor taking his place at one side of the room and the Nova Cats, his sister included, sitting opposite. “Allow me to get to my point†Victor said “the Federated Suns has designed, built and tested the next generation of Lithium Fusion Battery. Something we are willing to trade to the Nova Cats.†Victor said it had been a hard-sell with the Federated Suns nobility and with the AFFS High Command but Victor had pointed out that the Federated Suns were duty bound to share the technology with the Star League Defence Force once it spread to the SLDF the other member states would gain the Technology and then so would the Clans. The First Prince had pointed out that the Federated Suns should get something out of it which had lead to this meeting.
“Something I find difficult to believe†Oathmaster Lenardon said dismissively “the Clans have worked with and on this technology for more than two hundred and fifty years. Despite this technological achievement you have created†he said looking around the room “there are some things that take much more to understand and surpass.â€
“This ship has the prototype system on board it†Victor said proudly “here is the data on our trip here.†He said handing a data pad to the Nova Cat who handed it to one of his other party who began to look over the data after a few moments the man nodded.
“Interesting data which could be accurate or miss-information, Quiaff? The Inner Sphere has been known in the past to use such tactics to win battles with the Inner Sphere.â€
“Then a demonstration?†Victor asked the Oathmaster finally removed his mask looking Victor in the eyes as he did before glancing at Yvonne who nodded the Oathmaster looked back at Victor and nodded.
“Have your shuttle detach and head back to the Sandra Rosse. We will return once our engine has recharged.†He promised them the Oathmaster looked at Victor suspiciously before glancing at one of the other Nova Cats.
“Return to the shuttle, inform the Sandra Rosse's command that if we do not return within one week then they are to take word of the Federated Suns betrayal to the Clan Council†he said glancing back at Victor “retribution that even the Khan will not be able to stop.â€
Nearly an hour later the shuttle had cleared the FSS Black Prince's jump field and the Mercury-class vessel was able to jump a total of three times emerging finally from Hyperspace in the Anjin Muerto system ninety light years away from the system which they had met. The WarShip communicated its presence to the planet ensuring no-one panicked at the arrival of the massive vessel.
On board the vessel Victor Steiner-Davion was able to present the Nova Cat Oathmaster with physical proof that the FSS Black Prince carried a revolutionary piece of equipment the negotiations proceeded quickly with the Federated Suns wanting a only one thing a Bug-Eye-class Surveillance Vessel of which the Nova Cats have three and are considered to be priceless. Initially Oathmaster Lenardon had suggested that all the Nova Cats needed to do was capture the vessel that he stood on from the Federated Suns and then the Clan would have the technology. The Federated Suns leader is quick to point out that not only do the Nova Cats have nothing that can keep up with the FSS Black Prince and that even if they could over power the battleship that the system was built into the very hull of the vessel.
Before the FSS Black Prince returns to the meeting system rendezvousing with the Sandra Rosse on the 5th April an agreement is made for one of the Nova Cat's three Bug-Eye-class vessels for the new jump technology. By the end of April 3094 the deal had been completed and one of the three Bug-Eyes possessed by the Nova Cats was exchanged for the technology.
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I've got a bit of a tradition in this timeline on having things happen on April Fools day:
Fox's Teeth got captured by the Nova Cats because of bad intelligence
CASE WHITE was successfully launched by ComStar against the WoB
The Ices Hellion's lost a Potemkin and its contents in a Trial
Failed assassination against George Hasek
The Varnay family sparked rebellion against House Davion striking at New Avalon
Starliner One began its first mission
This year isn't going to be different - should be ready tomorrow or the day after O0
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if it involves warships or even just a big honking battle of PWS's and Assault ships i am all ready for the festivities lol 8)
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if it involves warships or even just a big honking battle of PWS's and Assault ships i am all ready for the festivities lol 8)
Some might say this is better...
My thanks to the developers of BattleTech for my April Fools for this year in the timeline
Games of Noisiel
Mahoken Continent, Noisiel
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
1st April 3094
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Alexis Muhlenberg, and welcome to Noisiel. Long regarded as a game world and mercenary trading world deep within the Lyran Commonwealth less than a jump away from the Alarion system.†She said giving those who were far away an idea of where they were in the Lyran realm “in the past the Duke of this world Michael Alextep has spent large swaths of his families fortune in financing the “Games of Noisiel†these games different from Solaris VII's because of their diversity from Mech scale rugby to the BattleMech Race of Noisiel. Supported by the Armoured Gorillas Mercenary Command Michael Alextep has created an attraction that brings in visitors from across the Inner Sphere.†She said brushing some strands of her brown hair from her face “recently however there has been a worry in the halls of Alarion and Tharkad.â€
She said pausing as the camera showed images of the Battle Armour troops of the Armoured Gorillas patrolling the streets of Noisiel surrounded by cheering children “in actions that have brought jobs to hundreds of Noisiel citizens Michael Alextep has directed citizens of Noisiel to refurbish and rebuild several abandoned armour factories that were built during the First Succession War and gradually decommissioned over the years as the threat reduced. He has also invested in drawing vehicle designers and engineers from across the Lyran Commonwealth to the world.†She explained in the early Succession Wars there were threats from both the Free Worlds League and from the Draconis Combine today things were far more secure even with the Clans bearing down on the Commonwealth.
“Recently Michael Alextep welcomed Broadfoot Electronics to Noisiel setting them up within a factory that has been built on the Romaha continent and is guarded by the Armoured Gorillas Command.†She said as the camera spanned out to show the large red “B†of Broadfoot Electronics on the side of a large building again with Battle Armoured troopers patrolling the perimetre “the company is well known within the Lyran Commonwealth for their work in the development of advanced scout drones. Broadfoot Electronics had been based at an LCAF base within the Isle of Skye on Laurleston however Alextep has drawn the company to Noisiel with the promise of a permanent headquarters to call their own. With the reactivation of armour factories on Noisiel the question is what is happening on this world?†She said finishing as the camera passed over the distinctive red landscape of the world's plants and trees “is Noisiel becoming a sleeping giant of industry within the Lyran Commonwealth? Is the Alextep family attempting to make a power play our nation has not seen in centuries? Both of these are questions that have been asked recently†she said pausing allowing the question to hang in the air for several moments.
“Well worry no longer because I have secured an interview with Duke Michael Alextep.†Alexis Muhlenberg said continuing to speak as the camera panned out slightly to show the Duke standing beside her his naturally blond hair rapidly receding and turning grey as age began to catch up with him “Herr Alextep, thank you for joining us.â€
“My pleasure Miss Muhlenberg†he replied
“Herr Alextep, can you answer some of the concerns that have been brought up recently regarding Noisiel's construction and repair of long abandoned factories and Broadfoot Electronics arrival?â€
“Ya, I can answer you very well†he said in his heavily accented English “both of our moves in the rebuilding of factories and with the arrival of a primary defence contract for the LCAF we have created hundreds of jobs for the people of Noisiel and ensure that in the future we can make a permanent contribution to the Lyran Commonwealth and her defence.†He replied “on this world we have the basis of what could produce several regiments worth of armoured vehicles for the Lyran people every year.†He explained shocking the reporter and likely most of the viewers.
“And how what is your answer the rumours that Noisiel has stockpiled hundreds of armoured vehicles exclusively for Noisiel's use?†She asked she'd done her homework before beginning the interview.
“Well I can say that under the constitution of the Lyran Commonwealth all planets are allowed to defend themselves. However that would be a short answer and I know it would not be one that would answer the media nor the wider audience.†He said smiling
“I am very proud of the people of Noisiel and of the Games that we have created however I wished to do something new something that would set apart our Games from Solaris or from the Vids from the battles from the front.†He explained more and more Tri-Vid entertainment companies and news services were moving with front line forces meaning real battles were becoming quite a common sight on screens across the Inner Sphere. The battles of Solaris and Noisiel still brought massive interest but real battle often got as much or more attention.
“So how have you done that Herr Alextep?†Alexis Muhlenberg asked pushing sensing that the Duke was willing to tell her.
“Well we have developed this†he said turning the camera followed his gesture to show a very large tracked vehicle which had been off camera. The vehicle looked like a box on a set of thick tracks lacking a turret or what looked like any weapon systems at all the vehicle was instead covered in communications antennae and dishes. “This is a Command Vehicle designed and built on Noisiel and designed for our new type of Games although it could also have potential uses by the LCAF should they show an interest.â€
“And what kind of games needs a battle ready tank?†Alexis Muhlenberg asked pushing the Games of Noisiel were set apart from others because they often did not use a single fully powered weapon.
“This tank is not battle ready, nor was it ever designed to enter battle on its own, instead this is more like ScolTek Associates Hi-Scout Drone Carrier.†The Duke explained “and here comes one of its drones†he said smiling as the camera showed another vehicle moving into the shot the drone looked far more like a conventional tank with thick tracks, a turret and a large gun it was about half as large as the Command vehicle.
“You plan to fight drones against each other?†Alexis Muhlenberg asked stunned in a universe dominated by the BattleMech, man and machine fighting as one Duke Alextep seemed to be going backwards drone and artificial intelligence technologies had largely been abandoned by the Inner Sphere although the SLDF had recently began looking more into them with their reborn Casper M5 drones.
“Yes, you may think that we have taken a leap from our senses? But we have not.†He said answering his own question “this tank is called the Tiger. Those viewers who know their history may remember the name from an armoured vehicle used by the Federated Suns during the Star League-era however for this vehicle you have to go back to ancient Terra and the year 1945 during what was known as Terra's Second World War.†He said explaining just how ancient the vehicle design was.
“This tank and hundreds like it fought for Germany during that conflict in an attempt to dominate ancient Terra. This tournament we plan to hold has hundreds of vehicles which we have designed and built on Noisiel each based on a design of armoured vehicle from that conflict. Unlike the original vehicles however each of these we have built use Drone control software so instead of five men being needed a single man can control this vehicle, and advanced Fuel Cell engines ensures that Noisiel's atmosphere is not overly damaged by the amount of vehicles we have in battle.†He explained unlike a normal conventional engined armoured vehicle the Fuel Cell tank was far quieter and environmentally friendly.
“And unlike regular Mech battles people of all ages and sizes can fight in these battles.†He explained as part of the marketing campaign the idea was not for only MechWarriors or wannabe MechWarriors to be involved but regular civilians who wished to deal damage to their opponent without having to live with killing someone. “We plan to hold events of up to twelve vehicles per side in various locations across Noisiel, each player will be allowed to select their preferred tank from the selection we have built. Inside the Command Vehicle each team will be seated next to each other so they can communicate with their team mates. Should the player lose their vehicle unlike a Mech Battle where the pilot must wait until the end of the battle the players in these battles will be able to enter the rear area of the Command Vehicle and enjoy a selection of food beverages similar to those available on Terra during that era and discuss their battles with the other players.â€
“With players having access to such firepower isn't it dangerous they could run riot across Noisiel causing massive casualties or target the command vehicles in an effort to take out their opponents directly?†Alexis Muhlenberg asked now curious more than stunned at the ideas being experimented with on Noisiel. Instead of answering the Duke raised a portable radio to his mouth.
“This is Alextep, have Tiger Drone target Command Vehicle and fire†he ordered. The drone turned its turret towards the larger command vehicle and fired a single shot. The blast from the cannon was extremely noisy with flames and gasses vented out the sides of the cannon as the drone's primary weapon fired. Over such a shot distance the shell took only a couple of seconds to travel the space between the drone and command vehicle. The blast struck the command vehicle causing some minimal damage to the larger vehicle. “As you can see it would require a battalion of these drones to cause any lasting damage to the command vehicles added to this the command vehicles can out pace the majority of these craft. Protecting them and the people of Noisiel will be the battle armour troopers of the Armoured Gorillas and Toads†Alextep explained. “We look forward to a good gaming season on Noisiel and I welcome all to join us the final battles will take place in August of this year all are welcome.†He said finally before shaking Alexis Muhlenberg's hand and walking off.
“Well ladies and gentlemen there you have it Noisiel has traveled back in time for this year's games of Noisiel.†Alexis Muhlenberg said as the camera refocused on her “will you join them in 1945? And will you be brave and skilled enough to join the people of Noisiel in the Championship of 1945?†She asked her voice trailing off as the camera turned to look at the Tiger tank its cannon now pointed towards the camera.
For several months battles raged across the world of Noisiel as the people enjoyed not only the regular games of Noisiel but also the specialist 1945 tournament with teams forming around some of the best players. Eventually an “Axis†team of Tiger tanks won the top trophy with the LCAF taking an interest in the “Command vehicle†beginning negotiations with Duke Alextep.
Cameron-Jones Palace
Regulus, Principality of Regulus
15th April 3094
On the world of Regulus Prince Lester Cameron-Jones and his wife Saadia Cameron-Jones, the Duchess of McKenna, become parents as their daughter Anita is born thus cementing Lester Cameron-Jones rule providing the Regulan leader with an heir.
Grand Council Chamber
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space
18th April 3094
In the four years since the first Grand Council on Tukayyid the city of Andrey had grown as grand as the proceedings in the Council Chambers. With now more than one million Clan born and bread inhabitants occupying the city. Within the city's grounds the Sea Foxes had built a BattleMech factory, while the Hell's Horses had built a Battle Armour production facility both of which produced goods for all of the Clans to bid and Trial for. The Snow Ravens had began to build an aerospace fighter production facility which would follow the same route.
Inside the Chamber halls however it was business as usual for the various Khans of the remaining Clans. Khan Nathan Fetladral leader of the Wolves had spoken at length to the Clan leaders discussing the Wolf interrogation of former Steel Viper saKhan Nicole Hoskins. He had confirmed what many of the Clans believed that the entity known as “The Society†now dominated the Clan Homeworlds. Fetladral also confirmed that the Society was commanded by those of the fallen Clans, their descendants and members of their own scientific castes.
Fetladral informs the council that Nicole Hoskins claimed that the Serpent Clans had invaded the Clan Occupation Zones so that they could live or die as Clansmen a final act to honour the Great Father and the Founder. He informs the Council that Nicole Hoskins died during her attempt to win a Trial of Position within Clan Wolf and that her example should be one that is used as a method of dealing with the former Clans of the Steel Viper, the Cloud Cobra and Star Adder. Following a vote each of these Clans and any of their descendants are declared dezgra by the remaining Inner Sphere based Clans. Several of the Inner Sphere Clans have captured warriors of these former Clans each chooses to retain these warriors and the blood heritages honouring the legacies of these names if not the Clans that had born them.
Border Skirmish
Emris IV, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
20th April 3094
In a raid sponsored by the Oriente Protectorate the Thunder Road Mercenary Command had come to Emris IV. They had only been on the planet for eight hours however Colonel John R Wrangler had already decided he hated it. Emris IV had thick “pea-soup†atmosphere it was uncomfortably warm in this part of the planet and it seemed to rain constantly. Looking over drawings of the nearby area he silently wondered if their target StarCorps of Emris IV and their production run of Warhammer WHD-10CT BattleMechs was worth it. Glancing up at his three Mech company commanders and the commander of his infantry he saw the same question on their lips 'to hell with it' Wrangler silently thought pulling the half done cigar from his mouth.
“Alright people as expected the Tenth Regulan Hussars have decided to set up between us and the factory. They want to stop us getting at these Mechs as much or more than our employers want us to get away with them. The Tenth is a new unit mostly comprised of armour, battle armour and infantry but they do have a medium company of Mechs to contend with as well.†He said going through the dossier provided by Oriente Intelligence the Thunder Road had two companies of Assault Mechs and one company of Heavy Mechs for flanking operations roughly half of their Mechs were Jump Jet equipped.
“We are going to do this smart. Command Company is going right down the middle†he said placing a marker down. “Ronald, your infantry troopers are going to follow me in, when we get to StarCorps you job is to liberate those Mechs take the StarCorps DropShip. We need it intact to maximize our takings from this job.†The large dark skinned infantry commander nodded some mistook him for a Clan born Elemental but in fact he was just “big-boned†as he liked to put it.
“Wilson, you have the right flank through over this area here. Stay on the far side of the river until you get to the factory then come across we should have them tied up for you so you can make the crossing without trouble.†Wrangler suggested James Wilson nodded he looked more like a doctor or teacher than a Major and the unit's XO with thin rimmed glasses and short ginger hair.
“Carlyle, you've got the fun job through the forests†Wrangler said Allison Carlyle was in her twenties the youngest here by some margin with shoulder length blonde hair she had a delicate look to her which hid a battle hardened warrior. As long as no-one mentioned her surname and any possible links to the Grey Death Legion they were fine. “Watch out for their infantry and Battle Armour forces I don't want to hear of any Mechs being knee-capped because they weren't paying attention.â€
“I'd be surprised if the Tenth are that skilled in knee-capping†Roland whispered “it's not like they are the Grey Death†he joked immediately you could see Allison Carlyle's face turn red with anger at the man's suggestion 'and to think those two were dating' Wrangler thought watching the exchange “Sorry All, didn't want to strike a nerve†Roland said raising his arms in surrender.
“When I pass by your Poor Blood Infantry troopers make sure they stay out of my way.â€
“Always thrown in the PBI card†Roland shot back
“Enough both of you, just stick to the plan and watch your people. The Tenth should be a walk over let's make sure they are and we don't have trouble like Brodon.â€
“No A Team present boss†Wilson pointed out. The fact that they had gotten their DropShip back from the rogue mercenaries did not help Wrangler's mood towards them.
“Just as well†he said sticking the cigar back in his mouth. "They'd be on my hit-list too."
The next day had progressed much as Wrangler had expected the defenders had set up with their Mechs in the open area directly between the Thunder Road and their target while the armour forces had concentrated on the far side of the river sniping at the Thunder Road's heavy Company. The Flanking forces had as expected been hit by infantry and battle armour looking to gain themselves an easy Mech kill in the thick trees. Allison Carlyle had been ready for them however deploying her company's lances one following the other as soon as the infantry appeared they were hit by the strength of two companies.
Moving forward as rapidly as a unit their size could Colonel Wrangler's company was soon in range of the Mech force John Wrangler himself finally being able to strike down opponents with his own Mech's weapons. “Careful you do not strike at the factory we want our prize intact†he said striking out with his Mech's three gauss rifles two struck their intended target causing massive damage disabling the Mech while the third flew wide taking the top corner off of the factory “just a scratch†he whispered to himself.
Across the line the other Mechs of the Thunder Road tore into the defending Mech company and its armour support with the heavy company pushing through the river and the Flanker company emerging from the trees on his right today was a good day for the Thunder Road. The Tenth Regulan forces were caught in a cauldron of weapons fire as they were struck from all three sides the remaining Mechs quickly fell.
With their enemy dead at their feet the Thunder Road's infantry forces were able to enter the factory and the nearby DropShip capturing both and the production run of Warhammers. Making their escape from the planet their bounty was delivered to the Oriente Protectorate as promised the Warhammers themselves could have doubled the size of the Thunder Road, a tempting proposition for any mercenary command, as part of their payment for the mission the Thunder Road were gifted two of the captured Warhammers replacing holes in the unit's TO&E combined with salvage from the Tenth Regulan the unit actually found itself over strength by three Mechs although those recovered were heavily damaged and would likely need months to rebuild. Wrangler also lacked pilots or suitable transport for these new designs instead of agreeing to a second contract with the Oriente Protectorate he chose to take his unit across the Free Worlds League to the system of Bowang which was famed for its acceptance of travelers and mercenaries.
Trial of Annihilation
Pristine, Sterling
Former Free Worlds League
29th April 3094
Ignoring the Inner Sphere's borders had been an easy decision for saKhan Ranna Kerensky the Ghosts of the Abyss had intentionally left the Lyran state hoping to avoid her command but she had already made her choice. Two years had passed since her journey had begun to eliminate her lover's killers and now was their moment.
The Exiled Wolves had quickly eliminated the militia defenders of Pristine, Sterling's capitals, now they had to hunt down the dezgra mercenaries before they chose to run again. The Wolf Spider Keshik were only two Trinaries in strength but their mission would be completed.
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Splendid, (Splendid-class Cruiser)
Quatre Belle, Raven Alliance
Periphery
8th May 3094
Slipping out of the Quatre Belle shipyards at a single gravity's acceleration the newest Clan Snow Raven WarShip slipped from its dock for the first time. The Splendid was the first of the class of the same name seven hundred-and-forty three metres long and massing seven hundred-and-ten tons the vessel was not the largest vessels. Originally designed by Clan Mongoose in the early days of the Clans the vessel was loosely based off the Capellan Confederation's Star League-era Du Shi Wang-class Battleship with an entirely laser based armament and defence the ship was designed to remain on the field of battle for extended periods unsupported.
Slipping over the shipyard the Splendid passed the still under repair Warden, a Thera-class Carrier, and four sisters to the Splendid. The Snow Ravens had faith that the Splendid-class would be a success now it was up to the ship and its crew to prove its worth.
Touman Restrengthening
Tamar, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
10th May 3094
As the Snow Ravens restrengthen their naval arm Clan Wolf continues to rebuild its battered Touman. As well as raising several garrison commands and investing in the deployment of several new armoured vehicles. At the forefront of these deployments were the reformations of the 328th Assault Cluster (The Lion Hearted) and 341st Assault Cluster (The Silver Blizzard) these two units are formed as perfect Clan Clusters with Three OmniMech Trinaries, an Elemental Binary, an Aerospace Fighter Binary and a mixed Trinary of support Mechs, Battle Armour and conventional artillery equipped armour. Both units could trace their lineage to units of the original Star League Defence Force, two of the few units that Nicholas Kerensky allowed to maintain their links to the original SLDF, both units had fallen from active service within the Wolf Touman and Khan Nathan Fetladral intended on ensuring their return. The Lion Hearted were assigned to the Beta Galaxy while The Silver Blizzard was assigned to Gamma Galaxy spreading the power of these commands throughout the Touman.
SLS Truce of Tukayyid, (Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser)
Star League Research Facility, Kuiper Belt
Sol System, Star League Protectorate
17th May 3094
On the gravity deck of the SLS Truce of Tukayyid Commanding-General Archer Christifori stood beside several SLDF scientists and engineers who were looking particularly pleased with their successes. Beyond the Truce of Tukayyid was a frail looking Starlord-class JumpShip which had been built at the O'Neil Shipyards specifically for these tests. The ship looked very little like a normal Starlord lacking in the docking facilities the class normally featured the craft instead had a large turret like assembly extending from both the dorsal and ventral hulls. This turret was covered in sensor surfaces and weapon emplacements but from what Archer understood an aerospace fighter could fly within one hundred metres of it and would fear little to nothing of direct damage. Instead the system was designed for a defensive purpose that if worked as promised would revolutionize naval warfare.
“Commanding-General, this JumpShip cannot be hit by any type of missile either capital or conventional.†Doctor Edward Kratz said proudly.
“An impressive claim†Archer said since the battles with the Manei Domini the SLDF engineers and scientists had been tasked with creating the perfect “WarShip Anti-Missile System†to defend their dark water craft the fruits of their labour had according to the rumour been completed.
“A claim that this test will show†Yin Takami said bowing deeply “this very WarShip and her aerospace fighters will be unable to engage that vessel with a single missile based weapon.â€
“And the crew share your confidence?†Archer asked wondering if the crewmen were crazy a Starlord-class vessel would be broken in two by a single capital missile.
“For this test we have utilized the drone operating system of a Casper type vessel†Edward Kratz said seeing Archer's surprise “the system ensures that human error cannot be blamed on the failure of the test and will provide us with accurate results and findings to refine future tests.â€
“As you wish†Archer said not completely convinced that the drone technology was the best source of the test. “Begin when you are ready†he said Edward Kratz nodded and spoke into the communication system.
Soon after the SLS Truce of Tukayyid's capital missile launchers spat out a series of White Shark capital missiles starting with a single missile increasing to a total of eight missiles been fired from the vessel's forward launchers. In each case the WAMS activated as the missiles closed on the JumpShip first disgorging counter-measures which appeared to strike the first missiles and then cutting the other missiles to pieces with frightening accuracy.
“Impressive†Archer admitted, he himself would be the first to admit that he knew little of space combat however he also knew that a dedicated combat WarShip would have struggled to stop such an onslaught.
“Phase Two involves multiple attacks from multiple directions†Edward Kratz said the Truce of Tukayyid's systems showed a group of aerospace fighters, a least a squadron in strength, an assault DropShip and the Truce of Tukayyid targeting the Starlord. From each attack the WAMS reacted to the missile attack engaging them with counter-measures and flak cutting each down. From what Archer could tell a minimal amount of conventional missiles had gotten through to their target causing very minor damage to the Starlord.
“Impressive†Archer repeated “few conventional defence systems that I have seen would have preformed as well.†He said congratulating them.
“These are ideal conditions Commanding-General. Neither this vessel or the defending craft are moving under thrust and our defences are automated.†Yin Takami pointed out he did not want this system to be termed as the perfect defence for a WarShip only to fail in reality.
“But it is a grand step forward†Edward Kratz reminding Archer of their accomplishment.
“I agree†the Commanding-General said after several moments “with both of you. This system shows much promise but will need a lot more testing including testing on a ship without the automated systems and with trained crews.â€
“Our next stage of testing Commanding-General, we have another JumpShip a Monolith that we have had built to be used as a training vessel for this system. With your permission they will begin training within the next month.†Yin Takami said Archer had been unaware the project had a second JumpShip however the results spoke for themselves.
“How many crewmen will you need?†Archer asked
“For this system to act at its peak efficiency we will need ten operators and two command level officers to coordinate, that is on top of the JumpShip's regular crew.†Edward Kratz said for the system to be tested properly they would need three or four times that many crewmen rotating between theory and practical testing.
“That can be done.†Archer said deciding that the cost was worth the rewards if they could effectively eliminate the threat from missile weapons, and more importantly nuclear weapons, “if these tests are successful how long would it be before we could begin retrofitting the fleet with this system?†He asked wondering about the costs that would be involved.
“Retrofitting would be impossible†Yin Takami said revealing the system's other drawback “the WarShip Anti-Missile System is built into the WarShip, JumpShip or Space Station that mounts it. It is integrated into the vessel's command and control functions to even attempt to refit a vessel with it would likely cause more damage and problems to the unit than the enemy's weapons fire. Archer Christifori was frustrated by that answer even if every single one of their tests went perfectly the SLDF would not be able to build a WarShip that mounted the WAMS until the turn of the century, perhaps later, any future SLDF naval design would likely have to be dramatically redesigned if it wanted to use the system which included the Enterprise-class Super-carrier. These tests had impressed the Commanding-General but he realized that he may never see it deployed on a combat vessel of the SLDF if further problems rose up.
First Battalion Field Camp
Mitchell, Sirdar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
23rd May 3094
Entering the camp of the First Kathil Uhlans First BattleMech Battalion Leftenant Kym Hasek and the other new warriors of the unit looked around watching the various Mechs of the Battalion which moved around. They stood in place as the Battalion commander approached he was a tall man with blonde hair “I am Richard Steiner, commander of this Regiment, you are all welcome within our number.†He said his Germanic accent showing his lineage despite being separated from the Lyran realm for many years. “You will receive Mech assignments by the end of this week. Until then each of you will complete duties within this base†he said moving down the row of new recruits “regardless of your rank or standing†he said stopping for a moment in front of Kym Hasek ensuring that she understood what he meant. “Is this understood?â€
“Yes, sir†they replied in unison
“Very good†he said continuing down the line “welcome to the Uhlans!†He greeted them finally seeing smiles brought to their eyes. The Kathil Uhlans was not the most respected or best equipped unit in the AFFS but it was one of the more popular independent commands. Supporting the Mech Regiment were a brigade of armour and infantry forces and an aerospace wing.
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Bonus Time
WarShip Anti-Missile System
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/new-tech-warship-anti-missile-system-(wams)/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/new-tech-warship-anti-missile-system-(wams)/)
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Very nice update! Hopefully a new crop of Warship designs will appear in your timeline in the next century! ;D
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Like the WAMS idea, I wonder how long until it spreads to others, it seems like the Snow Ravens would be interested.
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Very nice update! Hopefully a new crop of Warship designs will appear in your timeline in the next century! ;D
Yup
Like the WAMS idea, I wonder how long until it spreads to others, it seems like the Snow Ravens would be interested.
A while
Update time - can I end 3094 before the end of 2014?? That is the goal.
Secluded Warehouse
Blue Diamond, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
9th June 3094
Consciousness returned to Captain Aoife O'Kyan slowly in the darkened room. She realized quickly that she was naked and on some sort of cold metal surface she had no idea how she'd gotten her and although she was uncomfortable she did not shy away from whoever had taken her here they'd obviously seen her naked already instead she readied herself for a fight. “Aoife O'Kyan born in New Glasgow on the world of Skye in 3070.†A voice said but she couldn't see them “instead of joining any Lyran commands when she was sixteen years old she chose to join the LCAF enrolling at the Nagelring where she attained perfect grades despite being the Skye heritage and the intolerance for the War College is infamous for.†The voice said, it sounded like a male but Aoife still couldn't see him, “because of her heritage she would not be assigned to the Lyran or Royal Guard Regiments. Instead she was assigned to the Twentieth Arcturan Guards RCT.†He said stepping into view the man looked old in his eighties or order he was dressed from the neck down in a green power armour suit that had several C-Bill signs on it, the mark of ComStar's currency that had been adopted by the SLDF and was used across the Inner Sphere along with the nation's individual currencies, the power armour was famous across he Inner Sphere and periphery and had been for more than a century.
“What do you want with me?†She asked defiantly the Bounty Hunter picked targets who were wanted dead or alive by someone.
“During her time with the Arcturan Guards she went from being a MechWarrior to the rank of Captain under the tutelage of General Aiden Gray. She excelled at being a warrior and officer of the Arcturan Guards fighting both Clans Wolf and Jade Falcon remaining with the unit even when word of the death of both her parents...â€
“So you know a lot about me†she snapped “if your going to kill me you should end it now.â€
“In her time with the Arcturan Guards she has destroyed and killed a total of thirteen enemies, six MechWarriors, a tank crew of three and an Elemental point of four members. She had been reprimanded twice by her superiors for not caring about the collateral damage caused during her operations whether they be Lyran natives or those on occupied planets.†He said stepping forward closer to her he was even older than she'd suspected his eyes however were full of life.
“I needed to get the job doneâ€
“And they were ants under your boots?†he said
“Exactly†she said coldly
“Excellent†he said back “there remains a question for you before I decide if this has to be taken further.†He said his hand moving to his sidearm.
“What's that?†she asked expecting him to not let her finish.
“Are you happy?†He asked “taking orders, fighting other peoples wars, giving a crap about those ants under your boots.â€
“No†she admitted she just wanted to get the job done. She'd watched her General Aiden Grey be passed up for promotion by the arrogant nobility the most recent being Thomas Hogarth's promotion to the position of General of Armies, the man was an imbecile which showed everything that was wrong with the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Then you have a choice. You can follow me and begin a new life leaving your past behind you forever or you can go back to being a drone of the Steiner estate.†He said turning walking out an open door that was directly behind her. She was a member of the LCAF she had made commitments and sworn an oath to the Steiner family but it wasn't what she wanted neither was Skye its policies were too closely aligned with Tharkad's, even if they wouldn't admit it. Standing up she turned and walked through the exit following the Bounty Hunter out of the warehouse either to her death or to something new.
Trade Negotiations, FSS Audacity (First Prince Block II-class Battleship)
Ramora, Raven Alliance
Periphery
15th June 3094
With First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion negotiating with the Nova Cats over the rights for the Mark II Lithium Fusion Battery technology Prince Burton Davion had opened negotiations with Clan Snow Raven. Unable to take the new prize of the fleet Burton had still been able to take the FSS Audacity one of the Federated Suns two First Prince Block II-class Battleships.
Negotiating for the Snow Ravens was Khan Sterling McKenna. The negotiations continued at a pace with Sterling McKenna and Burton Davion agreeing terms quickly. Unlike the Nova Cats who had been willing to exchange one of their Bug-Eye Surveillance Craft for the technology the Snow Ravens are unwilling to trade away any of their WarShips or their under construction vessels. Instead the Snow Ravens agree to trade a five binary strong Cluster of Wusun OmniFighters. These craft recently deployed by the Snow Ravens offer a deeper glimpse into OmniFighter construction for the Federated Suns allowing them to continue to refine their designs under the project name RIGID NIGHT. Rumours are abound that the AFFS are developing two new OmniFighters known as the Cutlass and Rondel however neither design has been seen in operation.
Following the negotiations Burton Davion and Sterling McKenna remain in each others company for an extended period on board the FSS Audacity and then on board Sterling McKenna's vessel the Montbatton. Neither the Snow Raven or AFFS crews react adversely to the couple being together although both are careful to maintain their professionalism in public although rumours of their private activities was rife on both vessels.
Public Announcement
LCAF Command, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th June 3094
At a press conference in front of the mass media of the Lyran Commonwealth General of Armies Thomas Hogarth announces that the Fifth Donegal Guards RCT supported by the LCS Yggdrasil assaulted and destroyed a Stone Spirit force in the Scauld system as part of the LCAF's retaliation against the new force on their periphery border. Hogarth announces that the Yggdrasil and the Donegal Guards Regiment will be remaining in the Commonwealth's periphery region to keep an eye on the Stone Spirits and Fire Mandrills who had “camped†out on the Lyran's periphery border.
Several commanders in the LCAF question the use of an RCT and Battle-cruiser against a system that had no known ties to the Stone Spirits. Many within the LCAF believe that an LIC team or one of the Commonwealth's Peter-class scouts would have been better suited to tracking down Stone Spirit targets for larger commands such as the Fifth Donegal to strike at.
Nova Cat Raid
Broken Wheel, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
29th June 3094
In an unprovoked and unsanctioned raid Galaxy Commander Elson West of Clan Nova Cat leads Sigma Galaxy's command Keshik in a raid on the Filtvelt Coalition world of Broken Wheel. In the battle that followed Elson West's Supernova was surrounded and destroyed by the Third Filtvelt Guardians and the mercenary command McCandless' Wranglers. Although the remaining Nova Cat forces cause significant damage to the defenders and are able to retreat off planet the Third Guardians are able to salvage several of the downed Clan machines which become prize possessions within the unit. One particular piece of salvage a cobbled together Elemental suit is placed on display at the Third Guardians command base showing their pride in their accomplishments. The unit unofficially takes on the name “The Elemental Slayers.â€
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Contract Announcement
Bowang, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
5th July 3094
Intent on showing that the Bowang Free Trade Sphere intended on keeping Clipperton over a long term the new Prime Minister Allison Kaning announces a new three year contract with the Wolf's Dragoons with the Athena remaining in the Clipperton and the world's defences being augmented by the Dragoons Zeta Battalion and the units of the Seventh Kommando Special Operations command. As part of the Dragoon/Bowang agreement the shipyards of Clipperton would repair the crippled Dragoon Congress Block II-class Frigate Beowulf although this only left the WarShip Wolf Pack to defend Outreach the Dragoon's Homeworld was protected on all sides by the SLDF.
Mercenary Raid
Stone Spirit space, Periphery
10th July 3094
Under the direction of the new General of Armies Thomas Hogarth elements of the Twelfth Armoured Legion Regiment scout the periphery worlds of Lushun and Jibbet finding Stone Spirit forces have moved in on these worlds. The Twelfth Armoured Legion's forces using mostly Thunderbolt BattleMechs and Fulcrum Hovertanks to out gun or out move the Stone Spirit forces before falling back.
The intelligence gained from these raids show that the Stone Spirits have pushed onto most of the Periphery worlds near the Lyran Commonwealth and the Rim Collection. In response to the continued raids by Lyran and mercenary forces the Stone Spirits return to the world of Main Street this time intending on remaining on the Lyran world to reinforce their point the Stone Spirit landings are supported by their Samarkand II-class Carrier the Major Spirit.
Border Raid
Sadalbari, Military District of Dieron
Draconis Combine
14th July 3094
In a border raid the First McCarron's Armoured Cavalry engage the Second Dieron Regulars Regiment. The two forces spar on the jungle world for nearly two weeks before the mercenary command retreat back into the Federated Suns' Draconis March the raid proves one thing the the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry's commander Elizabeth McCarron, that her unit needs further combat to improve their capabilities.
Delivery Room, Royal Hospital
Samantha, Taurus
Plannagan's Nebulea, Taurian Concordat
22nd July 3094
On his capital world Protector Erik Martens-Calderon felt powerless in his arms he cradled his newly born daughter but through a small observation window he watched as the life drained from his wife Sonja Rosse-Calderon. The lead surgeon left the delivery room approaching the Protector “My lord†he began “I am afraid that we can do little further for her other than make her comfortable.†He said glancing down “she does not have very long sire.â€
“Thank you, may I sit with her?â€
“Of course sire†he said backing off allowing Erik to enter still cradling his daughter. From what the doctors had explained during the delivery of their daughter Sonja had suffered from internal bleeding. The doctors had tried for nearly six hours to repair the bleed however they had now admitted defeat now she was slipping peacefully away.
Erik moved beside his wife sitting near her still cradling his daughter who was mercifully quiet. “Hey†he said quietly looking into Sonja's eyes “how you doing?â€
“Not great, how is she?†She asked glancing at their daughter.
“Beautiful, just like her mother†he said.
“You're going to have to take care of her for both of us†Sonja whispered as a tear ran down her cheek.
“No, you're going to be with us a long time†he said back “I can't lose you†he whispered back.
“No option I am afraid†she said “this is one Clan bitch that knows when her time is up.â€
“No†he said the Protector breaking down in tears looking away from her.
“You listen to me Protector†she said raising her hand to his chin towards her “you need to be strong for her. And you need to be strong for yourself, you can't give up on life because of me.â€
“I'll never love anyone else like you†he promised her.
“I should hope not Erik Martens-Calderon, if you do I will come back to haunt you†she said the strength in her arm failing as it drifted to the bed.
“Sonja...†he whispered seeing the life draining form her “she needs a name...†he said glancing at their daughter. They had discussed child names several times but now all that they had talked about had gone from his mind.
“She needs a strong name Nicoletta†she said giving her child the name of the Protector who had led the Taurian Concordat during the Reunification War.
“A strong name for her strong mother†Erik said looking down at their daughter “Nicoletta Sonja Calderon†he had said giving her a full name Sonja had refused to take the Calderon name or give up her Bloodname but Erik had no intention on antagonizing his wife's former Clan by the use of the Rosse name. “Nicoletta, meet your mother†he said leaning forward with his daughter “Sonja...†he whispered but he saw that his wife's eyes had closed and that she had stopped breathing “...I love you†he said kissing her forehead “and she loved you†he said kissing his daughter's forehead before moving away.
Executive Box, Twenty-second Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate, Lyran Commonwealth
31st July 3094
Below within the Star League Stadium Solaris VII MechWarrior Roman “Yojimbo†Kota was dominating the Twenty-second Star League Games in his highly customized Hachiwara however for these games there was more interest in one of the executive boxes. There representatives of the SLDF, Lyran Commonwealth, Isle of Skye and MRBC were meeting to discuss a permanent memorial to the dead world of Galatea. The MRBC and Isle of Skye both like the idea of a space station and trade post while the Lyran Commonwealth and SLDF are more interested in replicating what Galatea had on another world. Several hours after Roman Kota had been crowned champion of the Twenty-second games the four factions eventually agree that the Galatea Station would be a more appropriate memorial, although such a creation is several years away.
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Very nice update! Hopefully a new crop of Warship designs will appear in your timeline in the next century! ;D
Yup
Let me know if CDT can help out with that the Yard Design Ship is pretty much open for business lol.
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Let me know if CDT can help out with that the Yard Design Ship is pretty much open for business lol.
And showing some of Corsair_SG's work - taken from Blacknova's KU its Bonus Time
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/splendid-class-cruiser/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/splendid-class-cruiser/)
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More details on Sonja Rosse passing will come
New update time
R&D Lab
Cerberus, Raven Alliance
Periphery
3rd August 3094
The Raven Alliance complete testing on their most recent weapons innovation the Capital Pulse Laser. In three sizes like the Standard type of Capital Laser this pulse variant produces more heat, is heavier and has a reduced range over the standard weapon however much like the standard pulse lasers it is far more accurate at all ranges.
With the newly deployed Splendid-class having a large capital laser array and significant other Snow Raven vessels using capital lasers the Clan sees several uses for the future deployment of the weapon system.
SLDF Deployment
Bordon, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
11th August 3094
Following a raid by the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and heavy fighting which had caused severe damage to the world's capital city Conde-sur-Vire the Second Royal Regimental Brigade of the SLDF is deployed as peacekeepers. The Marik-Stewart and Isle of Skye forces are pushed back by the SLDF forces out of the planetary capital effectively annexing the system for the SLDF the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Isle of Skye forces remain on the planet but without access to the planetary spaceport.
Scouting Mission
Pillory, Periphery
14th August 3094
The Rim Collection/Clan Fire Mandrill continue to scout periphery worlds near them and the space claimed by the Stone Spirits trying to establish how close they were to the Collection. In an effort to disguise their mission the Rim Collection deploy the Second Battle Cluster a unit made up of Rim Collection and Fire Mandrill warriors and equipped exclusively with Lyran produced BattleMechs, OmniMechs and armoured vehicles. The Rim Collection believing that should their force be discovered they will be mistaken for a Lyran Commonwealth unit.
On scouting the world of Pillory they find local settlements that had been abandoned for years. Before the Second Battle Cluster had arrived in the system someone had scavenged what was left at the settlement taking what was useful and destroying everything else. Unable to take anything from the system the Second Battle Cluster fall back intent on heading through the Garotte system on their way back to the Rim Collection.
Trade Deal
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
22nd August 3094
Seeing how rapidly the Federated Suns has shared the Lithium Fusion Battery Mk II with its neighbours the Snow Ravens realize that it cannot be long before the Sea Foxes gain the technology and make a healthy profit. Instead of allowing the Foxes or Nova Cats to profit from the new Technology the Snow Ravens make a deal with the Foxes trading it for a healthy supply of Harjel, which will continue into the new century, and other supplies.
Command Meeting
Pristine, Sterling
Former-Free Worlds League
23rd August 3094
In what was the Mayor of Pristine's office saKhan Ranna Kerensky stalked around her office her Wolf Spider Keshik had scoured Sterling for answers to the question of where the Ghosts of the Abyss had disappeared to. Following their first engagement with the rogue mercenary command the Wolf Spiders had lost contact with their enemy then they had almost magically disappeared. Ranna Kerensky had ordered the planet searched for potential leads while she had sent a message to Arc Royal addressed to the new Khan of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) detailing everything that her Wolves had discovered.
She had been pleased with what her people had accomplished but now she was angry. Looking at her commanders “what do you mean escaped? We have their DropShip in the spaceport Quiaff?†She demanded looking at Star Captain Eric Radick who was now effectively the executive officer of her double trinary sized unit.
“It appears that the remaining warriors of the Ghosts of the Abyss commandeered a Mule-class vessel that was collecting farming equipment for the world of Autumn Wind. There is a Battle Armour production facility on that world it is possible they will attempt to gain reinforcements or repair equipment there.â€
“I think not, recall all our forces, we will pursue them. Our JumpShip can take a direct route through abandoned systems to Autumn Wind. We will be waiting for them when they arrive.†She said angrily.
“saKhan, we have pushed them to the point of destruction...†Eric Radick he said, he and the other warriors were tired she knew this was not a challenge to her leadership just an opinion. A younger Ranna Kerensky would have likely attacked this man right there and then squashing his opposition before it began however her many years with the other Exiles had taught her many things patience being one of them.
“We will not stop until we are avenged and every last one of them dead.†She answered him
“And should we fall saKhan?â€
“Then our blood will go on eternally with Clan Wolf. These “Ghosts†have given us what every Clan Warrior dreams of a chance to live and die how we want.†She explained she'd thought about what would happen if they all died many times and the conclusion she had reached was simple she didn't care if she lived or died. She had a bloodname, all the members of her Keshik did, every single one of them would live eternally with Clan Wolf they would be remembered by their Clan as doing something that was right.
“We should not waste time†Eric Radick said seeing Ranna Kerensky smile as he agreed with her. He did not want to die on this saKhan's mission but if he did fall then he would die proudly as a Clan Wolf warrior.
“To Autumn Wind†Ranna Kerensky said heading from the room. Within the hour they were back on board their DropShip blasting off the surface of the planet. The Mule-class DropShip carrying the remains of the Ghosts of the Abyss was still in the system heading for their JumpShip however the Wolf JumpShip was closer at a pirate point. The Wolves would be ready to leave the system before the commercial JumpShip that would carry the Ghosts of the Abyss' DropShip as the Wolves knew the route of the JumpShip they could be in position awaiting the mercenaries.
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Bonus time
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/naval-pulse-laser/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/naval-pulse-laser/)
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More bonus time
The Nova Cat's Liger-class Strike Carrier
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/liger-class-strike-cruiser/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/liger-class-strike-cruiser/)
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This will be the last story update for this thread before the Christmas period (which I get to work yay for me :-\) to all the readers and commenters on this thread I hope you have a happy festive period and I hope you return.
Martial Olympiad
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
3rd September 3094
Following the canceled Martial Olympiad of 3091 the competition resumes in the Defiance system headed by First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion. On the ground new Rasalhague Dominion saKhan David Bekker and the Second Polar Bear Strike Cluster lead the competition the entire way winning the trophy outright on the ninth day of competition, a Martial Olympiad record for modern times. In space the DCS Draconis Rift, a Kyushu-class Frigate, and the SLS Morgan Hasek-Davion, a Davion III-class Destroyer, lead the competition with the Draconis Rift's Stinger LAM contingent giving the Draconis Combine vessel an edge. Towards the end of the competition the SLS Morgan Hasek-Davion's experience allows the SLDF vessel to pull ahead of the DCS Draconis Rift winning the competition although some of the DCMS contingent speak of a “fix†having the SLDF winning their own competition, which was hosted in the Defiance system, in a ship that was originally built in the Federated Suns. These claims gain little attention from the SLDF, the First Lord or many of the other competitors as the competition winds down and the various units return home.
High Orbit
Sudeten, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
9th September 3094
The clear night's sky over Sudeten is lit up as two vessels jump in at a pirate point not far from the planet. The people of Sudeten were used to such displays from the Jade Falcons who enjoyed showing their dominance over the planet and its population. Since the Lyran Commonwealth/Wolf (in-Exile) attack the Jade Falcons had been increasing such displays cracking down on public disorder and on anyone who had broken the rules.
Today was different however as they Jade Falcons were cracking down on no-one instead they were showing off the two ships were newly constructed at the Dark Nebula Shipyards. Both were of the Patriot-class, an upgrade of the Aegis-class developed by Clan Nova Cat, how the Jade Falcons got the construction statistics is unknown however it is widely believed that the Sea Foxes were responsible. Regardless the Sudeten's Sabre and Ironhold Remembered are powerful additions to the Jade Falcon navy and although Clan Jade Falcon has never been known for its naval prowess these are additions that the Clan intends to show off.
SLDF Deployment
Inarcs, Inarcs Theatre
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
27th September 3094
In response to the Jade Falcon assaults on Melissa and the Stone Spirit attacks on Main Street the SLDF deploy the First Division's Third Brigade, Bolton's Rangers Regimental Brigade, and the SLS Invincible, a Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser, to the world of Inarcs supporting their Lyran allies. This deployment is intended on showing that the SLDF still supports its member states defence against the Clans. The Bolton's Rangers are one of the best equipped and experienced units while the SLS Invincible is one of the SLDF's largest vessels.
Supporting the SLDF forces are a squadron of Interdictor-class “Pocket WarShip†assault craft and an aerospace based mercenary unit, the Sirens of Edyimon, commanded by Colonel Serenity Chiba.
Cremation Ceremony
Royal Crematorium, Samantha
Hyades Cluster, Taurian Concordat
29th September 3094
Rumours had spread across the Taurian Concordat that Clan Nova Cat had moved an entire Galaxy and several WarShips to the Davetal system. Across the realm people had begun to worry about the Nova Cat's motives something increased by the arrival of the Severn Leroux in the Samantha system had multiplied worries.
Khan Canin Rosse, who was on board the WarShip, broadcast a message to Taurus requesting the Protector's agreement to allow him and the Delta Keshik to land on the planet to pay their respects to one of their fallen. Protector Erik Martens-Calderon had agreed to the landing rights despite disagreements from some of his military advisers.
The Nova Cat's had been escorted through the system and landed outside the capital without incident. Now they stood with the Taurians respecting the Taurian customs. Khan Canin Rosse stood beside the grieving Protector of the Taurian Concordat as they watched his wife's body sheathed in white cloth slowly burn in the traditional funeral pyre.
“She was so strong†Erik whispered holding his newly born daughter looking into the flames fighting for an answer to what had happened to his wife.
“I read your medical report Protector, there was little to nothing you could have done.†Canin said in a low voice “when Sonja was young she suffered an injury during a quarrel with a trueborn youth. Our scientists believed they had repaired the damage done however they did not expect her to ever experience child birth.†He said watching the fire completely consume his daughter's body, beside the Khan a civilian Nova Cat woman with graying dark hair broke down in tears the Erik had thought the woman was one of those scientists but he'd noticed Canin Rosse was tightly holding her hand. “The stress was too much for their repairs even after all these years the human body is a resilient one but not resilient enough.â€
“No not enough†Erik echoed the Khan's words.
“At least she survives though the blood of others†Canin said gruffly “your daughter and those born into our iron wombs.â€
“There will be others that she will live through?†Erik asked surprised Sonja was a freeborn he hadn't expected her to be carried into the Clan's eugenics program.
“Aff, she is a Bloodnamed warrior, if not by her birth by her acts as a warrior.†Grayson said “she will live on Protector. She will live on in your life too†he said glancing down at the child “remember her, Protector, we will.†He promised turning to the Taurian leader nodding to him before moving off through the crowd. The civilian female woman hovered over them for a moment.
“She's beautiful†the woman said reaching out touching the child's cheek before withdrawing “Erik take care of her†she said she had a familiar accent but one that the Taurian leader could not place. She spoke to him as if she were his and the Khan's equal not just a civilian without another word she made her way through the crowd following the Nova Cat leader. All through the crowd the other Nova Cats slowly broke off and headed away without another word exchanged between them the Nova Cats returned to their DropShip and left the planet. Once back in orbit the Nova Cats returned through the Samantha system under escort by the Taurians and then they left the system returning to the Davetal system leaving Erik and his people in grieving. Sonja's ashes were scattered into the winds over Mount Calderon the day after by Erik she had liked the remoteness of the area when she had visited finding peace there. Erik had planned to offer some of the ashes to the Nova Cats however dead seemed to be the end for the Clansmen their interest gone with the individual their efforts placed into the future of that warriors genetics. The Protector could honestly say he did not understand it then again he could also say that he had never completely understood his wife either.
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Battle site
Autumn Wind, Independent
Former-Free Worlds League
6th October 3094
Another particle projection cannon blast slammed into the left hand side of Ranna Kerensky's Timber Wolf ruining the Long Range Missile rack there fortunately it was little loss as the launcher had been empty for hours. The Wolf Spider Keshik's plan to ambush the Ghosts of the Abyss Mercenary Command had backfired on them almost completely. Two days ago the Wolves had begun their landings on the planet only to be hit from several locations on the ground. Their DropShip had been struck by enemy fire and forced to make an emergency landing Katya had lost half her technical team and two MechWarriors before her Mechs had even deployed on the surface.
Her forces had then been hit continuously for two days harried from place to place unable to stop to repair or rearm. Death would almost be a welcome release from this battle. Now the Ghosts of the Abyss had landed and joined whoever was attacking them pushing her Wolves to the point of destruction. She had ordered a point of her Elementals to head to Autumn Wind's capital and overrun the HPG then to send her unit's position to the Exiles in the Lyran Commonwealth she hoped they would be successful striking out with one of her Mech's large lasers knocking back one of her opponents. She glanced down at her sensor display only three other Wolves remained standing and they were surrounded on three sides their Mechs had their backs against a cliff Ranna knew there was no escape they would die as Wolves in combat.
As more weapons hit her Timber Wolf Ranna fought for control triggering her Mech's pulse laser and machine guns as she did spraying the ground with weapons fire as her seventy-five ton OmniMech stumbled around as if it were drunk. She hit the communications system “Ghosts of the Abyss, your days are mark...†she began screaming into the microphone as a particle cannon struck her Mech's cockpit incinerating the saKhan. Within moments of their saKhan's death the remaining two Wolf MechWarriors also fell under the massive amount of weapons fire. In the planet's capital city the Exile Elemental point broke into the planetary HPG station commandeering the station to send a message via the civilian HPG network. The Star League Department of Communications operators of the station offered the Exiles sanctuary and transport back to Wolf (in-Exile) territory but the warriors had already decided their fate exiting the station as soon as it was confirmed their message had been send. Within minutes of being in the open facing their enemies the last members of the Wolf Spider Keshik were killed in a hail of weapons fire ending their hunt for the Ghosts of the Abyss in failure as the rogue mercenaries disappeared into the Free Worlds League.
Vacation spot
Averrant City, Crossing
Draconis March, Federated Suns
13th October 3094
While taking a break from the hustle and bustle of Robinson Duke Tarncred Sandoval and his family are targets for an assassination attempt by elements of the First Ghost Regiment of the DCMS on the holiday world of Crossing. Only a timely intervention by the Duke's personal regiment, the First Robinson Rangers RCT which had been in training on one of the planet's moons, saves the the Draconis March's leader and his heir the fifteen year old Elaine Sandoval. The First Ghost Regiment are forced back by the Robinson Rangers and forced to abandon the system or face destruction.
President’s House
Gillfillan’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
14th October 3094
Jerry Able headed into the compound that was the Rim Collection’s President’s House, visibly tired from having to take part in the campaign. While he publicly demanded an election, the public he knew was behind him. Very much so, for the last polls showed he held a forty percent lead over the closest other presidential candidate, Congresswoman Megan Hunt of Hiberius.
Unlike his daughter, Karen, he approved full-heatedly of the election. He just wished it wouldn’t take so much energy out of his aging body. Still, he was proud of his nation, his people. Tomorrow was the election, and already the larger voting centers were reporting lines as people began showing up so that their vote may be heard.
Only two things worried him at the moment. The Gold Herold, the newspaper company owned partially by his family, had begun printing articles that at least heavily implied his family should inherit the Rim Collection. He well knew it was Karen’s influence and the Able name that had the Gold Herold in the palm of Karen’s hands. With the Gold Herold being the second largest newspaper on Gillfillan’s Gold, and beginning to branch out to other worlds within the Rim Collection, Jerry knew he would have to keep a close eye on the newspaper.
The second thing that worried him, though, was the Stone Spirit attack on Caldarium and their near destruction of the BattleMech factory complex producing the Rim Collection’s sole assault BattleMech at the moment. Karen was on that world, now, overseeing the deployment of a large number of the Collection’s reserve assets. She had reported that morning the factory complex had only just finished being cleaned from radiation and would begin to be rebuilt sometime next week.
That had given his eldest grandson, Charlie, who ran Able’s Arms, Limited, a desire to get into the BattleMech production business, specifically to replace Rim Motors as the primary supplier of assault BattleMechs. That was mute until the young man actually supplied a design for just that. Still, he already had to publicly stand impartial between the upcoming fight between Rim Motors and Able’s Arms, less he be seen as not wanting to support the vastly popular Rim Motors. His latest speech had seen to that.
In the same speech, he also outright told everyone his plan to attend the upcoming Star League conference, where he would push for trade with the Star League Protectorate and the other Inner Sphere states and seek aid against the Stone Spirits. That had been met with applause and, he knew, had caught Megan Hunt and the other three presidential candidates off guard. While he knew it likely sealed his victory in tomorrow’s election, it also was a firm reminder that they needed allies, even with the Fire Mandrills at their side.
He was pulled out of his thoughts and stopped, leaning against his damned cane, as he heard his name. Turning around, he saw the Fire Mandrill Khan, Aemelia Showers, storm her way towards him, followed closely behind by Fire Mandrill Adjunct Lysa Djerassi in her wheelchair. By the look on both clanner's faces, he knew whatever they wanted was certainly not a social call.
“Congratulations on you finally becoming Bloodnamed and your elevation to Khan of the Mandrills, Khan Showers,†he congratulated the clan woman with graying hair. His congratulation was answered with a short, clipped nod from the khan, as befitting the one even her clan called the Cat, in respect for her past as a former Smoke Jaguar warrior. “I gather this is not a social call, quineg?†He asked the woman, using the clan term to show his respect of her.
“Neg, President Able. This certainly is not!†the clanner woman all but snarled at him. While both respected each other for their individual abilities, it reminded him he did not have as close a relationship with this woman then he did with the previous two leaders. And that showed, for only days after her elevation to what should have been Kindraa Leader of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga, the old woman instead declared the reformation of Clan Fire Mandrill under her command. While worrying, he knew it was only a pride issue with the weak clan and not anything more disturbing then that, for the clan would keep to their word to help protect the Collection.
Sighing to himself, he decided to lead the two clan women to his private office, as he did not want to deal with them in a public environment. “This way then, ladies. And you will have to excuse my slowness. Still need this damn cane to get around with, after all,†jostling the wooden cane he hated very much towards his office as he spoke to them. He still clung to his pride as a MechWarrior, after all.
Once in his office, Khan Aemelia Showers wasted no time to inform him of why she demanded to speak to him, as he quietly sat down in the comfortable sofa in the room. “Earlier today, Master Merchant Heather of the Steelsoul Khanate, based here on Gilfillan’s Gold, informed us of Evangeline Clarke being unable to convince her clan to allow my Mandrills to maintain our control over Armory Epsilon.â€
“Armory Epsilon,†he asked questioningly. While his status as President of the Mandrills meant he knew much more than the regular civilian would about the Collection’s resident clan, Aemelia’s recent reforms within the clan meant even he did not know everything about the Mandrills.
The wheelchair-bound Lysa Djerassi answered his question in place of her khan. “Armory Epsilon produces our Masada infantry fighting vehicles and the new Koshi BattleMechs we have begun to trade with the Collection’s permission with the Free World Remnants and the Star League Protectorate, President Able.â€
That answered everything now, for he had heard the other Sea Fox Khanates were not happy at the Steelsoul Khanate for allowing the Mandrills to produce the light BattleMech. “Is All Dawn at danger of being attacked by the Foxes, Khan?â€
Both clan women looked at each other, seemingly in an unspoken conversation, before the new Fire Mandrill khan responded to his question. “Unlikely, for the moment. Knowing the Foxes, they will merely declare a Trial of Possession against my clan for Armory Epsilon itself rather than attack All Dawn full out. Still, if and when they do come calling, my clan is too spread out and weakened to properly protect the factory complex, as it is just not worth risking our enclave on All Dawn.â€
“What can the Collection do to help with this situation Khan?†he asked the Fire Mandrill khan. “It is not as if we are in a position to come to your aid without weakening the Collection’s borders ourselves.â€
“I know that!†yelled out Aemelia as she slammed her fist on his desk that she was leaning on. The motion caused three of Able’s protective detail to check on them. Only after Able waved them off did they leave, closing the door to the room. “Forgive me, President. It is just irritating to be this weak!â€
“Yes it is,†he acknowledged to the clan woman, calming her down. It reminded him of just why she was called the Cat by her people. After allowing the clanner to collect herself, he continued the conversation. “What are our options if and when the Foxes decide to show up, as you delicately put it earlier, Khan?â€
“Fight, President Able. What more can we do?†she answered. By the worn voice of the clanner woman, Jerry knew the woman was tired of having a fight at every turn and yet, he noted her voice still held great conviction in it. It was what interested him the most about the Mandrills and the clans. They just didn’t quit, even when they should, for they were a prideful lot.
Which brought him back to the situation at present. Allow the far more powerful Foxes to take Armory Epsilon would badly hurt the Mandrills and potentially lead them closer to the Collection or cause them to separate from his nascent nation. Yet stand with the Mandrills and risking the Collection to an attack by the Foxes would cement the alliance with Mandrills far further. It was a gambit that could potentially make or break the Collection at a time where the Collection was only just branching out. A very big risk, to say the least.
And yet, with the Mandrill Khan here, he knew it meant the Mandrills were desperate. And that gave him options. Perhaps now was the time to both cement the alliance with the Mandrills and further the Collection’s need to rebuild and recolonize the planets nearby? He decided it was.
“You ask for aid from the Collection and yet, you do not give what the Collection needs,†he admonished to the two clanner women. Waving them down before they could get riled up, he continued. “The Collection has asked your clan time after time after time for assistance with using your large JumpShip fleet, which I hear is nearly all still wasting away over All Dawn and Timbuktu by the way, for help to build our nation’s economy.†Jerry knew the reason for the Mandrills to be clustered around these worlds; should they need to they could use them to evacuate the Collection. “Where is the promised medical aid? And just as many times, your Mandrills have denied our requests. And yet, here you two are. Whatever should I do, ladies?†He hoped to shame them to finally get them to agree with those two demands.
“Careful, Able!†Khan Aemelia Showers growled at him. “My warriors are dying for your Collection we came to your aid without hesitation on Caldarium and brought Timbuktu under your control!†She snapped back “my technicians are helping to rebuild your out of date production lines to match the Lyrans! My clan-“ he cut her off then.
“Your clan calls for aid, Khan, yes you have helped us but you could do so much more.†Jerry Able said “I will offer you a solution we will help you counter the threat from the Foxes but we NEED those JumpShips. And we NEED you to share your medical technology with us.†With those JumpShips they could improve this nation one hundred times over night; and the medical technology could save thousands. “I only remind you of that because, at the end of the day, my Collection and your Clan Fire Mandrill need each other, Khan. The Collection and the Mandrills MUST stand together! Or we will end up being destroyed by the threats at our border. I will order the last of our reserves to Caldarium, allowing your clan to rest and refit and be able to defend All Dawn against its enemies, whether they are the Spirits, the dezgra Lyrans, or the honorable Foxes! Think of that when we ask for aid from your clan, Khan. My Collection, as you put it, answered your call for aid. Will the Fire Mandrills answer ours, quiaff?â€
That solves two problems, Jerry thought to himself, it allowed the Rim Guards likely to finally get much needed combat experience and possibly get Congresswoman Megan Hunt off his back. She'd wanted her own troops to fight for the Collection for months it might cost him votes but it was worth it. This would allow the battered Clan Fire Mandrill Touman to recollect itself on All Dawn rest, refit and rebuild. He could see his impromptu speech had shaken the Fire Mandrill Khan, while out of the corner of his eyes, Lysa Djerassi seemed to be holding her breath. He knew he was taking a risk angering the Mandrill khan; but he deemed it a worthy risk.
Moments passed by, as the Clan warrior in front of him seemed to debate with herself on how to handle Able. Finally she gave her answer with only one word “Aff,†all the while grimacing to herself the Mandrill Khan did not like the idea of her forces retreating; and she wanted revenge against the Stone Spirits for their attacks.
Able nodded to himself before slowly picking himself up and making his way to his desk. Clicking on the comm he spoke into it “Connie, this is Able. Get me priority HPG contact with Hiberius. I need contact five minutes ago.†All the while, he stared down the Cat, the Crusader Mandrill who now led a clan of largely neutrals who cared not one bit for the traditional Crusader/Warden philosophical split found in the other clans what they did care about was each other and their survival; two things he had just offered the Khan.
As they waited for HPG contact with Hiberius, homeworld of the Rim Guards, he watched as Aemelia clenched her fists before nodding to him and he responded in kind.
Scouting Mission, LCJS Void Philosopher (Invader-class JumpShip)
Sweet Water, Inarcs Theatre
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
24th October 3094
Tagged as a civilian trade vessel the Void Philosopher, an Invader-class JumpShip, was a Lyran Intelligence Corps vessel tasked with scouting Lyran Commonwealth systems in the Inarcs theatre checking for enemies of the Lyran state should they be Jade Falcons, Stone Spirits, Fire Mandrills or pirates. To support these efforts one of the Invader's three DropShips was the LCDS Weasel, a Leopard-class “Pocket WarShip†disguised as a standard vessel, which was used to scout systems and take care of threats.
Most systems were clear of threats. As part of their mission the Void Philosopher scouted the abandoned systems of the Commonwealth one such system was the Sweet Water system which had once been home to a LIC Observation station. The system had been abandoned at the beginning of the First Succession War when a Rim Worlds Republic Mako team had released a chemical agent onto the planet to eliminate the LIC team and its intelligence.
Arriving in the system the Void Philosopher's sensors immediately lit up “sir, we have a contact in system!†Lt Janice Grazer called out
“Report†Captain Herman Friebner ordered
“Single contact half way between here and the planet. Over seven hundred metres in length.†She reported after a few moments “it's an Aegis!â€
“What an earth is an Aegis doing in this system? Recharge the drives as quickly as we can without damaging them!†Friebner ordered
“Sir, it looks like its dead†Grazer reported still looking over the sensor readings “I see minimal power from any of her systems she's drifting at 0.001G barely moving.â€
“When was the last time one of our ships visited this system?†He asked off to his left the ship's communications officer was already looking through the records.
“3042†Dennis Epps finally said “the starship Smokehouse Six...â€
“I wonder what they were smoking to miss a dead Aegis†Grazer said interrupting.
“...they spent almost two weeks in the system after a seal burst. During that time one of their DropShips landed on Sweet Water and confirmed that the world was habitable but that there was little left worth taking.†He said completing their report “sir, at the speed that Aegis is traveling there is no way they could have missed it.â€
“Maybe because it wasn't here.†Friebner suggested “get the Weasel on the line, see if they want to go scouting?†He said “inform our merchant passengers there is a ship in the system that may need assistance and that the Weasel is going to move to assist.†He said the Void Philosopher was carrying a Union and a Buccaneer from system to system as cargo for this trip.
“Stone Spirits?†Grazer suggested “they only appeared on our borders recently, they've got an Aegis.â€
“Which was last seen at Main Street.†Friebner said “this is something new.â€
“The only others in the are a that have an Aegis are the Jade Falcons and they haven't come this far.†Epps added
“That's why we need to see who this ship belonged to and where her crew went.†Friebner said. The Weasel's commander was not happy with the idea of approaching an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, even if it was dead, but after looking over the records himself he agreed to take the Weasel on a long range pass over the vessel.
Four days of waiting followed as the Weasel made its cautious approach. Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers were not the fastest of naval vessels but then they didn't have to be put in the right position the vessel could shatter the Weasel before it got within effective weapons range. As the Weasel approached the seven hundred-and-fifty thousand ton vessel it was clear to everyone on board the DropShip that the WarShip was no threat to anyone. The vessel's hull was holed in several locations, some that looked like they had been caused by internal explosions, and there was no biological life at all. One thing the Weasel was able to establish was the vessel's name Blue Talon which was a Clan Jade Falcon vessel that had been listed as missing/presumed lost since a miss-jump in 3087. With no sign of life or a threat from the vessel the Weasel continued in system for another two days arriving at the planet that had once been inhabited by the Lyran Commonwealth.
Sweet Water had received its name due to the natural springs of water that appeared across the planet providing plentiful drinking water. Unfortunately these springs and the underground rivers that fed them were unpredictable making the ground unstable. Also as large quantities of water was often thrown into the sky it made strong and lengthy storms common. Following the Rim Worlds Republic attack on the planet the decision was made to abandon the colony. As the Weasel moved into orbit over the planet the ship received a message from the ground “Unidentified vessel this is Star Commodore Tarlek Helmer this planet is inhabited by the passengers and crew of the Blue Talon. We have five hundred-and-forty-two souls†he said “we do not know your intention but we will resist you with all our abilities.†The Weasel's sensors could tell that the Jade Falcons had little in the way of provisions or supplies or shelter. During subsequent discussions it is discovered that the Blue Talon had jumped with its DropShips deployed in combat against the rogue scientist Etienne Balzec. Due to this the crew had been left with small craft as a means to travel to the planet considering the distance between the planet and the Blue Talon the journeys to and from had used the small crafts fuel stranding them on the surface.
The Jade Falcons had shown an uncommon ingenuity moving their small craft to the mouths of several caves which they had taken shelter in. With the shuttles blocking out most of the winds and rain the Falcons had survived for seven years which was an impressive feat on its own. With no intention of attacking the downed Clansmen instead Captain Friebner offers them assistance in exchange to the Falcons giving up access to the Blue Talon and their long range communications systems. Although this effectively strands the Falcons on this world but it also guarantees their survival it also brings a lost Lyran world back onto the interstellar maps.
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Nice update DC.
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Nice update DC.
Thanks
The Hyades-class JumpShip designed by Master Arminas which is the first home born Taurian design
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/hyades-(jumpship)/msg521704/#msg521704 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/hyades-(jumpship)/msg521704/#msg521704)
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The Hyades is actually a little ahead of itself the design doesn't start production until December :-[
Nevermind bonuses are good
Into November
Federated Suns National Survey
New Syrtis, New Syrtis PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
3rd November 3094
Although ever effort has been made to improve New Syrtis standing and repair the damage done to the planet in 3091 the world is largely depopulated with the Federated Suns National Survey putting planetary population under one hundred thousand. The only people who live on New Syrtis are those who work within the factories and military facilities that remain operational.
Although the Hasek family continue to call the world home, and continue to try to bring in investors and people to the planet, the Federated Suns leadership continues to consider Kathil, which is deeper inside the realm, as the capital of the March. The Hasek family remain as the noble leaders of the Capellan March with Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek spending more time on Kathil than his family's homeworld Duchess Deborah Hasek meanwhile spends more time on New Syrtis intent on restoring the world's pride which it held during her husband's reign.
LCAF Deployment
Australia, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
16th November 3094
As part of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces build-up in the system near the Rim Collection and Stone Spirit space the Thirty-second Lyran Guards RCT to the world of Australia backing up the First Pathfinders Battalion, The Drop Bears, mercenary command which had been hired by the Lyran Banks. Unlike The Drop Bears who are on the planet as a defensive force the Thirty-second are tasked with hunting down and eliminating any bandit or hostile groups in the region.
To assist them in this mission the unit is also testing a new type of Gray Death Battle Armour known as the Infiltrator. Unlike the Federated Suns Infiltrator Mk I the Gray Death Infiltrator is far more mobile and capable of dealing far more damage than its predecessor. The deployment of several squads of the Gray Death Infiltrator is mirrored with the deployment of several squads with the Gray Death Legion along the Jade Falcon border. Gray Death Industries, based on the Legion's homeworld of Glengarry, hope that successful deployments with the Thirty-second and the Gray Death Legion will lead to a larger order from the LCAF and interested mercenary units.
Royal Birth, Halas Palace
Oriente, Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
21st November 3094
In the halls of the Halas Palace Jonas Halas, Captain-General of the Oriente Protectorate, becomes a father for the first time with the birth of his daughter Sophie Halas. As the Oriente Protectorate was sandwiched between the hostile nations of the Principality of Regulus, Capellan Confederation and the Magistracy of Canopus Jonas makes the choice to hire Le Grande Cloche, The Grand Bell, Mercenary Battalion commanded by Colonel Cosette Beauchene.
The mercenary force are an all-female bodyguard unit with a battalion of infantry, a Mech lance and an aerospace squadron. Originally from the far flung Magistracy of Canopus world of Wavre Jonas assigns Le Grande Cloche directly to the defence of the Halas Palace over the Ducal Guard much to the anger of the Oriente Armed Forces.
Counter-strike
Marduk, Irurzun Prefecture
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
24th November 3094
Leading a counter-strike against the Draconis Combine for the attack against Crossing Duke Tarncred Sandoval leads the First Robinson Rangers RCT across the Draconis March/Draconis Combine border onto the Combine world of Marduk. There he encounters and destroys the First Ghost Regiment, the perpetrators for the attack on Crossing, breaking the DCMS unit with heavy pressing attacks the resistance from the First Ghost crumbles under the Rangers' attacks.
With the First Robinson Rangers RCT victorious over the destroyed 1st Ghost Regiment the only thing stopping the AFFS unit from claiming the planet was reinforcements from the Eighth Sword of Light Regiment and the Exeter Division mercenary command. Despite Tarncred Sandoval's continued presence on the planet for upwards of three further weeks the AFFS are unable to break these elite commands and are forced to retreat back into the Federated Suns. Duke Sandoval is content with the results of his battle the unit that attempted to kill his daughter however as he retreats back into the Draconis March he finds that those who are duty bound to serve the Draconis March and Robinson's Duke have launched their own reprisal strikes against the Draconis Combine bringing war to the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine.
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Nice to see the Draconis March sticking to stereotype, only thing shouldn't it be the 1st Ghost that was destroyed?
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Nice to see the Draconis March sticking to stereotype, only thing shouldn't it be the 1st Ghost that was destroyed?
Indeed :-[ thanks for catch
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Nice to see the Draconis March sticking to stereotype, only thing shouldn't it be the 1st Ghost that was destroyed?
Indeed :-[ thanks for catch
No worries DC, happy to get to read it.
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Nice update for the weekend... Looks like its a start of the Draconis March(FS) vs DC border war? Also, its nice to see the LCAF use a full RCT to guard a part of their Periphery against two small periphery powers! Feels like you will end or start the New Year with a bang in your AU? More!
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Now to finish December 3094 - I've got most of the start of 3095 done as well so most likely have another update soon.
Clan Wolf Council, Tamar City
Tamar, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
3rd December 3094
For several months Clan Wolf cluster commanders had questioned why the Clan had been importing massive amounts of Nuberu Anti-Aircraft Tanks from Clan Snow Raven. These questions had intensified when the Wolves debuted the Aesir Medium Anti-Aircraft Vehicle deploying multiple vehicles in supporting rolls with the Nuberu.
The Clan Wolf leader calls for all bloodnamed warriors to report to Tamar and to attend an immediate Clan Wolf Council. Once assembled, in late December, the Khan briefs the gathered Wolves on his Clan's plan for the future; a plan that had begun by the Nathan Fetladral and Khan Silas Kufahl in 3086 and was known to a select few. The reaction to the news varies among the Wolf Touman a few question the Khan's path while others relish the challenge the Wolf Khan has chosen for them.
Second AFFS Assault Wave
Draconis Combine/Federated Suns Border
5th December 3094
While Duke Tancred Sandoval is engaged with the First Ghost and the Eighth Sword of Light Regiments on Marduk military officials in the Draconis March take the Field Marshal's actions as a call to the Draconis March to expand the AFFS attacks on the Draconis Combine. With six House regiments and several mercenary commands supporting them the AFFS units within the Draconis March launch an assault on Capra, Gandy's Luck, Waponeta and Sadalbari. Despite heavy resistance the AFFS successfully secure Capta and Sadalbari continuing to threaten Gandy's Luck and Waponeta. On Robinson military leaders, in absence of Tarncred Sandoval, plan a third and fourth wave of attacks intended on bringing the Combine to its knees. Among those units involved in the fighting is the First McCarron's Armoured Cavalry Regiment, who along with the Fourth Robinson Rangers LCT, are involved in a large battle on Waponeta with the Third Amphigean and the Third An Ting Legion Regiments.
Twelfth Whitting Conference
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
7th December 3094
At the Twelfth Whitting Conference Anthony Brett-Marik, Captain-General of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abby, is elected the new First Lord of the Star League Defence Force. With his election Anthony supports the Oriente Protectorate's admittance to the Star League. The Capellan Confederation and Magistracy of Canopus attempt to block the nomination however they are quickly out voted by the other states. The Oriente Protectorate is added to the Star League with no voting rights for three years much like the states that had been added before them. Duke Christopher Halas, brother to Jonas Halas, becomes Oriente's member to the Star League Advisory Council.
Following the initial meeting the Federated Suns provide construction information required for the upgraded Lithium Fusion Battery to the Star League Council with the intention for the technology to be spread throughout the Star League states. Several other minor details are brought to the Star League Council's attention including the new Stone Spirit threat - which the Lyran Archon down plays – the new fighting along the Draconis Combine/Federated Suns border and the continued expansion of the SLDF.
Diplomatic Meeting, Davion Wing
Whitting Conference Centre, Unity City
Terra, Star League Protectorate
8th December 3094
First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion watched as President Jerry Able approached him hobbling toward with his cane “President Able, welcome to the Council, it was a surprise to see you however I hear congratulations are in order.†Able looked at him with a questioning glance “your election result.â€
Jerry Able felt the the hairs prick up on the back of his neck at the First Prince's use of the word election; little surprise from someone born to lead a nation. He'd seen the 'election' of the new First Lord and hadn't been all that impressed the politics and counter moves the various Succession Lords had made made a mockery of the word election. One thing that had impressed Jerry was that Victor had voted against his brother's nomination; in an effort to ensure the Star League did not become a plaything of the Steiner-Davion family. “Thank you, First Prince Davion†he said “I was wondering if we could discuss a couple of matters?†He asked
“President Able, the Council heard your call for assistance, the SLDF are currently deployed to face the Jade Falcons, Rasalhague Dominion and to face threats from within the Inner Sphere.†He said he didn't have to mention the heavy fighting ongoing between the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine which was currently drawing the SLDF's attention in one direction and the Lyran Commonwealth/Marik-Stewart Commonwealth in another direction. The Rim Collection's request for assistance had gained little interest from the SLDF member states even with the Rim Collection offering to sweeten the deal with the trade of several Titan-class DropShips; another surprise for the SLDF who had no idea that they had enough of them to trade. The Taurian Concordat, Capellan Confederation and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth all accepted the offer to trade for the Titan-class vessels netting the Rim Collection technology from all corners of the Inner Sphere.
“I understand the SLDF have no interest in assisting us†Jerry Able said angrily he'd have thought the Stone Spirit threat would gain more interest; especially considering the strong indications of the Stone Spirit's Clan history. “I wondered if the Federated Suns would be interested in assisting us?â€
“Why would we?†Victor asked “you are on the other side of the Inner Sphere from us. And we have no need for Titan DropShips or access to Clan technology from your Mandrill guests.†During his time as First Lord he had learned of the Clan Fire Mandrill remnant forces in the Rim Collection; what little of them remained.
“How about a Whirlwind-class Destroyer?†He asked seeing the First Prince's interest being peaked by the mention of the ship. “It is a Mandrill vessel, the Warsaw, heavily damaged during the Mandrill evacuation of their Homeworlds.â€
“And the Mandrills would be willing to trade it?†Victor asked he knew the Clan had some WarShips left over after their mysterious evacuation of the Clan Homeworlds. He also knew they'd been keeping them out of sight so outsiders could not strike at them he knew they had a couple of merchant ships and a New Syrtis-class Carrier, which his analysts had taken an interest in, but not a Whirlwind.
“Aff†Able said before realizing what he had said “I mean yes†he said correcting himself having spent so much time dealing with Clansmen it had become a habit; one that Victor actually understood with his dealings with the Khans. “The ship is badly damaged but the Mandrills would be willing to make a trade.â€
“For?†Victor asked
“I have some ideas but the Mandrills will ultimately make that decision, First Prince.†Able admitted he could speak all he wanted about the Warsaw but it was up to the Mandrills to agree to the trade; if it benefited the Collection all the better.
“Unfortunately I cannot come to your Collection to negotiate with them...†Victor began
“I understand First Prince Davion†Able said “but you do not have to, a representative of Clan Fire Mandrill is on-board my JumpShip ready to meet with you.â€
“In the Terran system?†Victor asked angrily to have clansmen in the Terran system was not what Victor wanted to hear. "You know what could be said if the other Clans were aware of this?" The danger this periphery state had brought with them.
“Don't give me that†Able said with as much anger “I know from my contact with the Sea Fox Clan that they have had access to the Terran system.†He said the Sea Foxes had recovered three WarShips, of all things from the system, never once setting foot on Terra. “I have one member of Clan Fire Mandrill with me, one, now do you want to meet with her or do you want to be a stuck up Succession Lord?†He asked Able no longer cared if Victor was the First Prince of the Federated Suns or a Cameron reborn he came here to offer the man a deal it was his choice to agree or disagree.
“Okay†Victor said stepping down he wanted to meet this Mandrill and the possibility of adding another Whirlwind to his fleet could not be ignored. “I will meet with your representative. Have them transfer to the FSS Black Prince once I am on board. Will I see you there also?†He asked
“Yes, First Prince Davion, this trade could effect my nation.â€
“Would you like to accompany me?†He asked
“No, I will return to my JumpShip with my own ship, I will meet you again when the Fire Mandrill representative arrives to begin the negotiation then she will not believe that we have made any deals behind her back.†He explained offering Victor his hand which the First Prince met with a firm shake “I will see you again soon.â€
“I look forward to it.â€
Diplomatic Meeting, FSS Black Prince (Mercury-class Battleship)
Terra, Star League Protectorate
20th December 3094
The Black Prince met Victor Steiner-Davion roughly a day from the Sol System's star a few hours after the arrival of the First Prince the Rim Collection party including President Able and the Fire Mandrill representative this way the vessel could maintain a 1G thrust which would make negotiations easier. Victor had been surprised to hear that the Fire Mandrill representative who needed a wheelchair to move around something he had never heard of from a Clansmen let alone a Warrior.
They had come through the Black Prince to one of the massive vessel's many meeting rooms. “Welcome on board the Black Prince†Victor said greeting them glancing from Able to the Fire Mandrill to see the Clan warrior in a wheelchair; would take a little to get used to he thought.
“Thank you, First Prince Davion, this is Lysa Djerassi our Fire Mandrill Adjunct to Rim Collection.â€
“Adjunct Djerassi†Victor greeted
“Star Colonel†Djerassi corrected Able “First Prince Davion you led the SLDF against the Smoke Jaguars, Quiaff?â€
“Aff†Victor replied using the traditional answer to the question “the Smoke Jaguars were brave warriors.â€
“Misguided warriors†Lysa Djerassi admitted “we Mandrills had no interest in conquest of the Inner Sphere, well most of us didn't, instead we were content with remaining in the homeworlds.†She said “unfortunately it became... unsafe for us to remain there.â€
“Unsafe?†Victor asked pushing the Clan Homeworlds were a mystery to the majority of the Inner Sphere none of the Clans seemed to be willing to discuss it.
“Aff, it is not something we discuss with outsiders†she answered quickly Victor exchanged glances with President Able who shook his head meaning he didn't know either. “During this time many of our Clan's assets were lost or badly damaged†she admitted “one such asset is the Warsaw, a Whirlwind-class Destroyer.â€
“President Able mentioned its presence and the possibility that you may be willing to trade it?†Victor decided to push it would be of interest to him to try and trade further with the Clan but the Warsaw itself would be a worthy prize.
“Aff, we would be willing, we wish an Avalon-class Cruiser in trade.†Lysa Djerassi said Jerry Able looked shocked at the request obviously he had not known the Fire Mandrill request.
“We do not have an active Avalon-class vessel†Victor admitted the three ships that were commissioned into the Federated Suns Navy were all in the Kathil system docked with the McKenna Shipyards in various states of disrepair. “Also given your recent actions against the Lyran Commonwealth I am not comfortable with giving you a vessel capable of the destruction that the Avalon is.â€
“Then I guess that you would not be willing to trade us any of your war vessels?†Jerry Able added in “despite the dangerously active Stone Spirit forces on our border?â€
“I know little of these Stone Spirits†Victor admitted “I would be interested in finding out more.â€
“We can provide you with our intelligence data.†Jerry Able said help from the Federated Suns or Star League Defence Force would be greatly appreciated.
“That is not enough for our WarShip despite its state†Lysa Djerassi stated.
“I would appreciate your intelligence data†Victor said “however I would also like to deploy a small AFFS Special Operations force to the Rim Collection to investigate the Stone Spirit threat and assist in shoring up your defences.â€
“Not enough†Lysa Djerassi said “we came to this negotiation willing to trade with you however you seem to want a lot for very little. We can deal with the Stone Spirit threat just give us the tools to complete the job.â€
“And what would you do with that once the Stone Spirits were dealt with? Turn them on the Lyran Commonwealth?â€
“We do not have the resources, manpower or the ambition to act like the Jade Falcons or Wolves†the wheelchair bound woman said angrily Victor wasn't sure if she was angry at him or angry at the fact that the Fire Mandrills had been brought so low.
“I can confirm this†Able said “the Mandrills, despite their rocky start in the Rim Collection, have been very helpful to our people. Their WarShip forces are a source of security to our citizens, however, even if we were able to repair or replace the Warsaw with a vessel capable of a similar amount of firepower they would not be enough to take on a single LCAF Squadron†Able confirmed.
“What if I offered you something that could maintain your current strength over the long term?†Victor offered “the AFFS has a Fox Block III Refit and Repair Vessel which at this moment is under-construction which we could trade to you for the Destroyer. Your people would be able to repair any damage that your vessels have already taken and to maintain them and your JumpShips over a long term.â€
“A repair vessel...†Lysa Djerassi began before Jerry Able cut in.
“Could help us over an indefinite period of time.†The President said smiling looking at the Fire Mandrill Star Colonel “think generations from now could benefit from it†he pointed out WarShips if maintained had a habit of remaining active for many years.
“To put aside some of the fears you have†Victor said “I will assign a Robinson-class Transport Vessel to the AFFS detachment who will accompany the Repair Vessel to the the Rim Collection. For the duration of the time until the Warsaw is ready to make the trip to the Federated Suns the vessel and its detachment will be at your disposal, President Able? It's firepower should provide great assistance against the Stone Spirits.†Lysa Djerassi and Jerry Able exchanged glances and a brief nod was exchanged.
“I believe we have a deal First Prince†the Fire Mandrill Adjunct said “your people will be monitored closely during their time with us. If they take any action that harms Clan Fire Mandrill we will take the appropriate action†she warned.
“They will be welcome guests of the Rim Collection, First Prince Davion†offering the softer approach. Victor was not sure how exactly the relationship between the Rim Collection and Clan Fire Mandrill worked; it seemed like an interesting and possibly a slightly dysfunctional relationship but it also appeared to be one that worked. When he briefed the troops that would be going to the Rim Collection he would order them to pay attention to the President and his people and to watch the Fire Mandrills very carefully. He did not get the impression that Able's people were subservient to the Clansmen, at least Able was not, but the Mandrills obviously had great pull over the people who lived there.
Taurus Territorial Industries
Orbital Facility, Sterope
Taurian Concordat
27th December 3094
After more than two years of hard work the Taurus Territorial Industries JumpShip yard is completed in orbit over Sterope. The shipyards waste no time in beginning to construct their first Hyades-class JumpShip. To ensure that the planet and the shipyards are protected the Taurians assign three squadrons, a total of eighteen, TIG-40 Foxhound Gunboats and one of the Titan-class DropShips; which would be assigned once it arrived from the Rim Collection. On the ground two regiments of Taurian Defence Forces found themselves assigned to the planet's defence.
Hope you all enjoyed 3094 feel free to comment or ask questions.
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Good end to the year DC, i'm looking forwards to 3095.
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To celebrate the beginning of 2015 here's the start of 3095
3095
Concealed Location, Prosperity Point
Quentin, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
1st January 3095
On a rooftop opposite the Quentin planetary duke's official residence The Bounty Hunter, Aoife O'Kyan, laid concealed by a camouflage tarp her eyes focused through a telescopic sight. Beside her Vic Travers sat with an assault rifle covering her back. “You have to remember you need an escape route you don't have an RCT supporting you.â€
“But I can have team mates†she whispered she'd read lots of reports of the Bounty Hunter's lance mates in combat although she had met none of Travers.
“Aye you can†he said quietly “but they need to be willing to give up the lives they had as you have, they need to know you might need to let them die in the course of the mission†he cautioned her a Bounty Hunter's companion could die but not the Bounty Hunter “and they, like you, have no qualms about what they are doing. Take this job why are you taking out this man?â€
“It's the jobâ€
“Good, but what's the reason behind it?â€
“I hadn't thought about it†she admitted it was a job that paid good money. They were on the Davion side of the Davion/Kurita border the job was to kill the governor of Quentin with no real stipulation on how he died. She'd initially been tempted to take the Marauder II and walk through the Governor's convoy as he traveled between office and home but Travers had suggested a different route instead now they were here opposite the governor's home with a throw away anti-armour rocket launcher. Why she'd been asked to kill this man hadn't really occurred to her until now. Thinking about it quickly she guessed that it was due to the recent fighting between the Draconis March and the Draconis Combine but did it really matter? He was her target end of story she thought.
“Good, you need to find lance mates who feel the same way.†Travers said “they can't have any issue with what you are doing because if they do you'll fail in your mission.â€
“I won't fail†she promised him; if she did she'd let down the whole history of the Bounty Hunter she reminded herself.
“What do you see†Travers asked getting back to the task at hand.
“The target is sitting down to a meal with his family in the left room. There are two guards visible both outside the home.â€
“What are they eating?â€
“Looks like some sort of chicken or turkey; looks nice.†She admitted
“You know if you fire now you'll kill those children as well?â€
“What if the glass is blast resistant?†She suggested Travers smiled at her suggestion, a perfectly reasonable, which avoided his own question.
“Only way to find out is to take the shotâ€
“And if they survive?†She asked
“Then you get your with to take the Marauder II†he answered gaining a smirk in reply from his successor. Without another moments hesitation she pulled the trigger sending the rocket towards its target “dump it over the edge†Travers said immediately she complied knocking it over the edge the launcher fell into the communal skip below sinking into the rubbish bags of the people who lived in the area “by the time they find it we'll be long gone†he said leading her down through the building.
Several hours later they arrived back at their Mule-class DropShip. Outside news of the Governor's assassination had spread rapidly and anti-Davion protesters took to the streets engaging in street brawls with Davion supporters and the local police forces the DropShip's commander convinced the spaceport director to allow them to boost off the planet to escape the violence. Boosting away from the planet towards a waiting commercial JumpShip Vic Travers officially passed ownership of the “Bounty Hunter†and everything that went with it to Aoife O'Kyan. The Tradition, a document known to the Bounty Hunter and their successor, was updated with the new owner's signature accepting everything that was the Bounty Hunter past and present. Almost two weeks later Vic Travers, the DropShip commander and the head technician went their own way from the ship with the ship's XO and the next in line tech stepping up to serve the new Bounty Hunter in a carefully planned procession. Vic Travers had told Aoife that if she wished she could replace either of them and that there would not be any fuss but he also advised that it wasn't the 'done thing.' For now she chose to leave the set up as it was, she needed to assemble a team and get another job.
Trial of Possession
Vannes, Chainelane Isles
Periphery
8th January 3095
This trial was over the Wolf Aerospace fighters had been declared victorious over the Sea Fox aerospace fighters Star Colonel Urllo Rhyde maneuvered his Jagatai OmniFighter over the battlefield. His ship was damaged but operational unlike nearly a trinary of the other OmniFighters that had made up his force. “Blair Fowler, are you among those of the living, Quiaff?†He asked the Sea Foxes had lost the majority of their Cluster of OmniFighters before surrendering the trial.
“Aff, Urllo Rhyde, I am alive unlike many of my pilots you Wolves fought a tough battle†she replied.
“As did your own†Urllo Rhyde admitted “this trial is over Star Colonel the Sea Fox will accept the terms of our trial?â€
“Aff, we will†Blair Fowler replied “what do your Wolves need of so many ships?†She asked inquisitively; just like the tradesmen her Clan were made up of. The Wolves had called for this trial a trinary of JumpShips each with command vessels, a total of eighteen vessels, to be constructed by the Sea Foxes for the Wolves. The immediate cost to the Sea Fox would be negligible however any plans they had to increase the size of their JumpShip fleet from their own shipyard would have to be out on hold.
“Nothing that will threaten your Foxes Blair Fowler only effect the destiny of Kerensky's Chosen Clan.†Urllo Rhyde answered cryptically giving nothing more away regarding the Wolf intentions. This move by the Wolves comes at a time of transition following the recent Clan Council with Wolves beginning to transfer power and facilities to Clan Coyote forces throughout their Occupation Zone. Wolf combat assets withdraw to the inner worlds of the Wolf Occupation Zone still outside Wolf space the Clan's intentions are unknown. The Sea Fox Watch was at a loss for the Wolf plans with theories ranging from the Wolves moving fully into the Star League Protectorate to become ilClan to the Wolves returning to the Homeworlds, abandoning their Occupation Zone, to take take back those worlds from the Society.
Royal Birth, Forbidden Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
20th January 3095
Deep within the Forbidden City Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao and his wife Erin Liao become parents for a second time with the birth of their second daughter Madison Liao who follows the two year old Zeia Liao and confirms Dao-Shen Liao's line will succeed if he passes.
Naval Shipyards of Clipperton
Clipperton, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
24th January 3095
After several months of repair work, with the assistance of Clan Sea Fox engineers, the Shipyards of Clipperton begin construction of two new Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruisers. Neither ship is expected to be ready for testing trials until the turn of the century however many on Clipperton and on Bowang see it as a sign that the shipyards are turning the corner to recovery. Before the facilities had been damaged they had been capable of building a far greater number vessels at one time and should be again at the rate of the repairs, instead however the engineers and scientists of the shipyards in conjunction with those of the Sea Foxes, they had begun to develop a newer type of WarShip smaller than the Agamemnon and easier to produce in number; which would be shared with the Sea Foxes.
The codename for this new class of vessel is Aumakua, chosen by one of the Sea Fox scientists, is named for the Terran mythological guardian of the islands of Hawaii as this class will be used by both Clan Sea Fox and by the Bowang Free Trade Sphere two versions of the ship will be built one purely made from Clan Technology while the other uses Star League and Inner Sphere technology both versions of the vessel are planned to take advantage of new technology that had been developed such as the upgraded Lithium Fusion Battery and Naval Pulse Laser. Unfortunately due to the decision to use these technologies it has put the project significantly behind schedule.
Bridge Engineering Monitoring, FSS Intrepid (Fox Block III)
Igualada, Sakhara PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
31st January 3095
Following a Draconis Combine counter assault against the Federated Suns which had brought fighting to the worlds of Tripoli, Breed Paris, Dobson and Le Blanc the AFFS had ordered the engineering crews on board the FSS Intrepid and the FSS Pegasus to get the Columbia-class Battleship off the Combine border as quickly as possible. Reports had reached the Intrepid that Tripoli, Breed and Paris had fallen to the DCMS assaults; as those worlds had been vacated by the Draconis March assaults against the Draconis Combine. Fighting was continuing on both Dobson and Le Blanc however reports were that the fighting on Le Blanc was more of a guerrilla battle with the Fox's Teeth and Delta Company keeping the DCMS assault forces busy while the local milita forces held firm.
Leftenant Rodney McGillon sat at his engineering console on board the Intrepid nervously the engineering teams under Major Nathan Heaps worked fourteen hour shifts for the last week attempting to get the Pegasus ready for the jump they were convinced that the ship was ready despite the still heavy damage. For the last three years they had worked on repairing the massive WarShip removing severely badly damaged systems, emptying her hold of dangerous ammunition and recovering the bodies of dead crewmen who had been trapped in areas exposed to the vacuum of space had this conflict with the Combine not happened they would have maybe been ready to jump the Pegasus in a few months time. Condensing repairs that would have been done in a few months into seven days had not been an easy task. “Intrepid Engineering Station One to Pegasus CIC report status.â€
“As ready as we'll ever be†Leftenant Letizia Ortiz replied after after a few minutes she was his partner in the repair operation on the Pegasus between them they coordinated the internal and external repairs on the battleship. Rodney wasn't convinced that the battleship was ready for the jump but Letizia was she was confident their repairs had gotten the ship ready for the jump, even she wasn't convinced that it would get all the way to Hadrian's Command but if they got the ship into the Crucis March it would be safe from a Combine attack.
“I wish†Rodney replied “Captain, Pegasus reports ready to go.†He reported to his CO moments later.
“They are sure?â€
“As sure as they can be†Rodney replied glancing at his screens the Captain didn't look convinced but then he wasn't an engineer.
“Here we go then†he said “docking control lock down all airlocks and release all clamps.†He ordered “helm draw us back from the Pegasus and prime the KF Drive.†He said activating the ship-wide announcement system “Intrepid, the Pegasus is preparing to make its first jump since we began our work, lock-down all systems and secure anything that's loose we'll be following them.†He said signing off “communications let the Pegasus know we can go once we are clear.â€
The Intrepid released the Pegasus and began to draw back away from the battleship the vessel slowly slipped into open space there were several areas on the ship still exposed to the vacuum of space many of her damaged weapons emplacements had been completely ripped off the hull and the area sealed with armour plate giving the craft a patchwork appearance.
“Power spike on the Pegasus, they are feeding her KF Drive power, looks like a steady build up.†Rodney McGillon said looking at the readings his console was tied directly into the Columbia's systems it didn't look good but it seemed to be holding together no leaks.
“We're clear of the Pegasus increasing thrust to 0.5G acceleration†the helm officer said drawing the WarShip into open space.
“Pegasus, CIC reports positive readings on KF Core the Drive's ready, jump is plotted.â€
“Clear them to depart†the Intrepid Commander said “wish them well.†Several moments later the Pegasus' KF Drive fired surrounding the WarShip and sending it through the void of space out of the Igualada system. Rodney McGillon's screens went blank as the ship passed beyond the range of his systems.
“Prep our own drive take us to Huan†the commander ordered just over twenty-one light years away; it wasn't out of the woods but it was a step in the right direction. Soon after the Intrepid completed its jump from the Igualada system to the Huan system's Nadir point. Already in the system was the FSS Pegasus which had already began to unfurl its jump sail.
“Yes!†Rodney McGillon said triumphantly seeing the readings from the battleship on his screens light up.
“Well done Leftenant, now get a hold of Major Heaps and Ortiz and see when we can make our next jump.†He ordered the Intrepid would need time to charge its own KF Drive which would allow the people on Pegasus to make quick repairs to any systems that didn't make it through the jump. Huan was still close to the Combine border they were not safe yet but it was a step in the right direction.
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I forgot to do this yesterday
So here are the WarShips of 3094
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/)
And the map
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/)
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Into February
Things look like it going back to normal of sorts for the inner sphere and periphery powers.
Normal... let's see if you think normal comes into it after this change... To the Wolf (in-Exile) fans who read this I hope you don't hate it.
Meeting, Wolf City
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
12th February 3095
Far from the Clan Wolf (in-Exile) Clan Hall Khan Patrik Fetladral and Loremaster Evan Kell along with nearly two Clusters of Exile warriors had secured a building in the merchant sector of the city. Soon after word of their visitor's arrival had been signaled by their guards. The two men waited silently the recent death of Ranna Kerensky had effectively placed Evan Kell, as Loremaster, into a position second only to Patrik Fetladral. Neither liked each others company much but they both agreed that they had to work together to ensure that the Exiles survived, as Evan Kell planned to enter the upcoming trials for a new saKhan, Patrik Fetladral had ensured that he was here for this meeting.
Their wait did not last long as a pair of armoured Elementals entered the room taking up positions next to Patrik Fetladral's own guards. The Elementals wore armour that was identical to his own down to their paint scheme and the “unique†crest signifying that they were the Wolf Khans escort. Moments later the reason for this similarity was answered as Khan Nathan Fetladral of Clan Wolf entered the room quickly crossing to the table. Never in Clan Wolf's history had the Fetladral name been so powerful, two Khans, it was a shame that they had differing political differences Patrik thought before speaking. “Welcome to Arc Royal†he said raising from the chair “please take a seat†he said indicating to the chair opposite the Exiles.
“Thank you†Nathan Fetladral said sitting opposite the two Exile leaders “and thank you for agreeing to meet with me.â€
“You said you had a proposal for us.†Evan Kell said before Patrik could ask the reason for the meeting.
“We are the same you and I†he began “we are Wolves born by the same blood, to the same traditions and the same history.†Nathan Fetladral began seeing their hostility raising he continued before they could disagree “however we are forever separated by the choices of those that came before us and the beliefs that we hold.â€
“I agree with you completely; our Clans can never be one again.†Patrik Fetladral said agreeing “our paths have separated.â€
“What is the reason for your visit Wolf Khan, not to remiss over past choices we had no hand in, Quineg?â€
“Neg, Loremaster, I believe that we should stop living in the past. As you say in there were decisions made that we were not a part of; beyond our control.†He said “now however we can control what happens, I have a proposal for you, there are currently two Wolf Clans I wish there to be only one.â€
“You come here to declare a Trial of Absorption?†Patrik Fetladral asked angrily standing to his feet.
“Neg, your Wolves and mine should not come into conflict†Nathan Fetladral said raising his open hands in an attempt to show no hostile intent. “Instead I say that you stop being Exiles and embrace what you are.â€
“And what is that?†Evan Kell asked
“An independent Clan with its own destiny.†The leader of the Crusader Wolves said “give up your desire to be the Exiled Wolf and become something your people can be proud of.â€
“Were it so easy Patrik Fetldral our Wolves believe they have as much right to Kerensky's legacy as yours do.â€
“But they are also proud of who they now are and of where they now live†Evan Kell said warriors of his Bloodline were now being born into the Iron Wombs of the Exiles more and more of the freeborns born in Wolf City and beyond were being accepted into the Exile Touman.
“What do you suggest we become the Lyran Wolf? Further subjugate ourselves to the Succession State?†Patrik Fetladral asked.
“Neg, we are Wolves but we will never be Lyran Wolves.†Evan Kell said quietly thinking for a moment “we must be our own people, the Mountain Wolf.†He said thinking of the BattleMech company owned by the Kell family named for the species of Wolf native to the Lyran homeworld.
“Mountain Wolf†Patrik Fetladral said sounding out the name “a strong name†he admitted “but one that our Council must rectify.†He said speaking to Nathan Fetladral.
“Aff, of course Khan Mountain Wolf†the Wolf leader said reinforcing the name in Patrik Fetladral's mind the Exile leader was not convinced that this was the path for his Clan but it was something he was at least willing the look at. Looking at the Wolf Khan he knew that this was not the only reason that Nathan Fetladral had visited them. “Was there anything else, Quiaff?â€
“Aff†he admitted “there are changes coming to Clan Wolf, changes that you would be advised not to interfere with, should you get in our way we will destroy you and all others that are with you.†He warned the previously friendly tone completely gone from the Wolf leader's voice. I also wish to challenge your Clan...â€
'Here it was' Patrik Fetladral thought quietly the real reason for this visit the Mountain Wolf was a charade.
“I wish to challenge you for a copy of all information you have on the Ghosts of the Abyss and the locations your forces engaged them on. I believe that saKhan Ranna Kerensky transmitted such information to you before her passing.â€
'What? Why do you want that' Patrik Fetladral wondered looking at the Wolf leader not realizing his mouth was silently open in surprise.
“Why do you want this information?†Evan Kell said regaining his composure more quickly “what good would it do you?â€
“Our reason is our own†Nathan Fetladral said giving little away to the Wolves motives the two Khan and Loremaster exchanged glances and a nod of agreement.
“To show that we harbour the Wolves no ill and to honour Ranna Kerensky's passing as a Wolf†Evan Kell said stressing that she was a Wolf first not a crusader or warden “we will release the information to you without trial on one condition?â€
“What are we Foxes or Wolves? There is no conditions we fight for this information in a trial or we do not.†Nathan Fetladral said angrily after several moments of silence from the two Exiles however he relented “what is your condition?â€
“That whatever the Wolves have planned does not effect our Clan or those we protect adversely.†Evan Kell stated his Wolves would not give their counterparts information that could cause them harm; there was no sense in it.
“Your Wolves will not be effected directly by our actions; you may even benefit from our plans.†He said smiling knowingly both Exile warriors knew that the Wolf had big plans however they also knew what he had planned would not effect them; no Wolf would lie to another even those who were set apart.
“Then we will transmit you the information before your JumpShip leaves the system. We will consider your... other proposal.†Patrik Fetladral said raising to his feet Nathan Fetladral nodded raising from his own seat.
“It was only a suggestion†Nathan Fetladral said “I am glad we were able to meet like this, as Wolves, it is how the Founder would have wanted it I am sure. He said without another word the Wolf Khan walked from the room followed by his Elementals Patrik Fetladral slipped back into his chair.
“Theory?â€
“The Wolf plan will change many things†Evan Kell said it wasn't an answer, it wasn't nearly one, just a feeling he had.
“Mountain Wolf? The Kell factory name?â€
“The Kells are as part of this Clan as any other, Patrik, Phelan Kell's blood does not just run through my veins it will soon run through many others in our Touman. Our Clan is also a part of the Lyran society the name fits on both accounts.â€
“And I assume that you would like to push through your other agenda also, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, I have been able to gain the Kell name because of my bloodline, the trueborns that follow Phelan Kell and me should be allowed to fight for the right as well.â€
“And what of the Kells in the Lyran Commonwealth? Their reaction may not be a good one.â€
“To hell with them†Evan Kell admitted “we are Wolves they will accept what we do or they will not but we must continue.â€
“Spoken like a Wolf†Patrik Fetladral said proudly remaining silent for several minutes “fine we push on with both. You are correct the future Kell Bloodhouse should have its voice, the warriors deserve their place within our Clan and the right to fight for a bloodname. The Mountain Wolves...†he mused “a new start for our Clan after all these years in Exile†he wondered.
“Not a new start†Evan Kell said “embracing what we now are, we are not the Wolves who came to conquer, we are the wolves who come from our homes and defend those who need us.â€
“You are moonlighting as a part-time soothsayer, perhaps you should join the Nova Cats, quineg?â€
“Neg I am a Wolf†Evan Kell said bringing a smile now to the face of Patrik Fetladral, perhaps he could work with this young wolf after all.
In the weeks that followed the meeting between the Exile leaders and Nathan Fetladral a series of changes happened on Arc Royal. First was the public acknowledgment by the Wolf leadership that Kell blood had been mixed into the Iron Wombs and the first warriors were already training to be Wolf warriors and that in the future they would be allowed to fight for the Kell Bloodname as Evan Kell had done. This initially sent a few ripples through the Wolf Touman however most already considered the Kell name as their own in the Lyran Commonwealth there were slightly larger ripples with many questioning the loyalty of the “true†Kell line that resided on Arc Royal questions that were rapidly answered by Duchess Megan Kell. Although Megan did not condemn the Exile actions she did point out that the Kell Family would always be a Lyran family first and foremost.
The second change to the Exiles caused far greater ripples within the Wolf ranks Khan Patrik Fetladral and new named saKhan Evan Kell jointly proposed at a Council meeting of all the Bloodnamed warriors in Clan Wolf (in-Exile) that they officially change their name to the Mountain Wolf. Initially even thought of changing their Clan's name was seen as grounds for a Trial of Grievance with both the Khan and saKhan defeating opponents in Circles of Equals to ensure their ideas could be heard.
Both Wolf Khans explained their reasons behind their idea. Since their discussion with Khan Nathan Fetladral both Khans had spoken with each other at length on the subject looking at the various reasons behind supporting the change and against it. The two Khans explained their reasons to the Clan Warriors and each reason was debated for nearly eighteen hours without recess although several of the Wolves were unhappy with even the mention of changing their Clan's name many of the others, many of the younger generation and others who would happily drop the stigma of the in-Exile tag.
Eventually the vote was called and once the counts had been made and checked Clan Wolf (in-Exile) was no-more and Clan Mountain Wolf had arisen. For the short term future the Mountain Wolf Clan would have problems with old warriors that they were no longer 'Wolf' warriors. Khan Patrik Fetladral would also have to explain to the Lyran Archon why the Tharkad's national animal now had a Clan named after it.
Mission Rubicon, Outrageous Fortune (Merchant-class JumpShip)
Sharpe, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
17th February 3095
With Terra and Unity City under the control of the reborn SLDF there was a magnitude of information available to the SLDF. To help sort through the information, specifically indicators towards lost SLDF Caches, the SLDF had hired civilians employed by Interstellar Expeditions. Once they had found something interesting this was passed to the SLIC for further analysis and tasked with a scouting group to confirm if anything remained in some cases Interstellar Expeditions were hired to follow up on the find as well due to a shortage of available JumpShips operating with the SLIC.
This was the case with this particular mission according to every map from the fall of the First Star League throughout the Succession Wars and into modern times the Sharpe system of the Capellan Confederation did not exist. However on 'original' SLDF the system existed and was home to the the Sharpe Rifles Regiment, a unit of the St Ives Armoured Cavalry, after the fall of the Star League and the beginning of the First Succession War there was no mention of it. The First Succession War was devastating with whole worlds destroyed but even those that had been destroyed there was still records of them Sharpe seemed to just disappear.
In an effort to discover what had happened to the system the Interstellar Expeditions Merchant-class JumpShip Outrageous Fortune had been tasked to jump into the system and discover what had happened to the system. Entering via the system's Nadir jump point the JumpShip had immediately been confronted by dozens of metallic signatures between them and the planet including one massive space station. With aerospace fighters approaching them the Outrageous Fortune fast charged its KF Drive escaping the system heading for the nearest SLDF outpost on Kittery.
Gilmour MilTech Test Grounds
Talitha, Star League Protectorate
21st February 3095
Several SLDF officials stood with the directors of Gilmour MilTech Industries near their factory on Talitha watching the sky. Gilmour was one of the few places within the Inner Sphere capable of full scale production of Land Air Mechs (LAMs) and Gilmour's contract with the SLDF gave them much latitude in who they dealt with. The Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Draconis Combine were both routine customers of Gilmour MilTech however for this contract they were offering the SLDF Exclusive access.
“Ladies and Gentlemen†Director Arthur Caldwell began “in the late days of the first Star League Martinson Armaments worked on a new Land Air Mech design.†He said as a roar of an engine began to fill the air “this design was co-opted by Amaris and his forces following their occupation of Terra during the Star League Civil War.†He explained it wasn't the best topic to bring before SLDF officers and officials but it was history “the design was miss used by the Amaris and did not impress.†He explained “the design is intended as a flanker and harassment unit but they tried to use it as a front-line unit where it did not work†he said as the aircraft came into range.
The aircraft was as large as most medium aerospace fighters with wings that extended from mid-way along the fighter to the rear. Under the right wing there appeared to be a single large weapon. The aircraft turned slowly towards them diving to a lower altitude as it did the LAM began to convert first into an Air-Mech, part way between a Mech and an aerospace fighter, and then into a BattleMech as it closed on them igniting its jump jets lowering it slowly to the ground.
“Allow me to present you with the SCR-1X LAM Screamer†Arthur Caldwell said as the Mech walked towards them “built on a fifty-five ton chassis the Screamer is able to keep up with most Inner Sphere BattleMechs on the ground with the added bonus of being able to convert into an Aerospace Fighter. It is armed with an Extended-Range Particle Cannon which can be used on the ground or in the air and it has two internal bomb bays which can be employed in its aerospace fighter mode.†He said seeing the SLDF Officials taking an interest now they could see the Mech before them “due to the work originally done by Martinson Armaments, and rejected by Amaris, we can begin production of this design immediately for the exclusive use of the SLDF. Alternatively it will be available for the general market by the end of the year.†He said he didn't need to mention the availability for the design however from the comments he could hear them say to each other he knew that Gilmour MilTech would be producing these Mechs for the SLDF for the foreseeable future.
Arthur Caldwell had hoped the new technology that Gilmour MilTech had been working on would be ready for the Screamer however there were still problems with the equipment. Instead for now the Screamer and Gilmour's Shadow Hawk LAM would have to remain in their original configurations.
Base Camp, Thunder Road Mercenary Command
Darby, Bowang
Bowang Free Trade Sphere, Former-Free Worlds League
28th February 3095
With the agreement signed the Thunder Road had moved into their new base camp, which as part of their agreement with Bowang would belong to them, Colonel John Wrangler was not completely happy with the facilities on offer. Although Bowang had long been regarded as a trade hub and it had been the capital of the Bowang Free Trade Sphere for seven years it had never been high on military expenditure with only a couple of bases on the planet renovated to modern standards. This particular fire base which had been gifted to the Thunder Road had been abandoned since the Second Succession War when Lyran Commonwealth forces severely damaged the base during a long range strike.
“Look first we concentrate on the Mech bays.†Wrangler said to his chief tech “we can man those walls all day and all night but our Mechs will not maintain themselves.†He pointed out “first the Mechbays then accommodations and the kitchens.†He said first the Mechs, the unit's lifeblood, then accommodations; the DropShip beds they were currently sleeping in were not designed for long term stays despite how comfortable their ship was. The kitchens were another priority as at the moment they were boosting the local Bowang economy with their take-away meals and eating out Wrangler knew that it wouldn't take long before the cost of all this “eating out†bankrupted the unit even with some of the discounts being offered to them as “Defenders of Bowang.â€
Bowang had hired them in good faith as a long term training and raiding unit however this base had a lot to be desired about it Wrangler believed that it was more likely that the Bowang Government had given it to them to save the cost in ripping it down. One major positive of the base was that it had been designed to service an entire regiment which would give the Thunder Road plenty of space to expand should they find the funds to do so. The base also had its own dedicated landing pads for three spheroid type DropShips the Thunder Road only had one DropShip at present but again in the future it could benefit them greatly.
John Wrangler had never been a man who had considered settling down he had always wanted to be a MechWarrior and had always known that would mean moving from base to base and planet to planet. However this offer from Bowang was too good the Thunder Road would make in the next six years what they would normally make in nine years and Bowang had stated that after their term was over another contract would be offered, however, if the Thunder Road wished to seek employment elsewhere they could AND more importantly keep the fire-base as their own. It wasn't Outreach, Northwind or Arc-Royal he thought thinking of the homes of some of the bigger mercenary commands however it was a significant step in the right direction.
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Time for an update as I'm still on days off - time to make JA Baker/Starbug happy...
Deep Space Meeting, Warden (Thera-class Carrier)
Periphery
9th March 3095
In the periphery between the Raven Alliance and the Nova Cat's Den Khan Canin Rosse and Khan Sterling McKenna met on board the newly recommissioned Thera-class Carrier Warden. At this meeting the Ravens and Nova Cats agreed to trade their Drake-class Corvette and Splendid-class Cruisers. The Ravens were in deep need of a smaller ship than their current crop of vessels while the Nova Cats see the Splendid as a potential replacement for their multiple cruiser classes. As the Ravens are parting with a Cruiser and the Nova Cats a Corvette the Nova Cats sweeten the deal by trading in a Carrack Merchant-class Transport, the Far Star.
Following this agreement the two Khans suggest an ongoing dialogue between the Clans and a formalized series of trials between the two Clans that would form a type of training for their naval crews. The idea being that neither Clan loses any WarShips but their crews are able to maintain their skills each Clan agrees that small but notable prizes will be placed at stake for these “training exercises.â€
Border Raid
Graceland, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
15th March 3095
The Gray Death Legion Mercenary Regiment defend Graceland from a determined Clan Jade Falcon attack taking heavy damage as they do. During the fighting the Gray Death Infiltrator Battle Armour suit proves to be invaluable to the mercenaries and their Lyran Commonwealth allies with the Jade Falcons unable to break the Gray Death's defence they retreat back into their occupation zone.
Hospital Suite, Avalon City General Hospital
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
17th March 3095
Ariana Steiner forced her eyes to open she felt pain from head to toe something was wrong she tried to remember what she had last seen but as her vision cleared she could see a dark skinned male dressed in the clothing of a doctor “Ah you're awake†he said smiling broadly “can you hear me?†He asked Ariana nodded which was agony in its own “good†he said holding up three fingers “how many fingers am I holding up?†He asked basic questions she thought just how injured was she.
“Three†she said her lips were cracked and sore her mouth dry
“Very good†he said reaching over holding a glass in front of her mouth “sip it slowly now†he said the water felt like it was frozen as it touched her lips and mouth running down her throat “slowly†he said as she drank she thought about what had happened; how had she gotten her? She remembered being in a car with her parents Reinhart and Faith Steiner, her father had been ill recently so she'd been driving, there had been an accident and then nothing.
“Where are my parents?†She whispered
“Rest now†he said removing the glass glancing across the bed nodding before leaving the room. Ariana followed where he had looked to see Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion.
“Aunt Danai?†She said surprised to see the First Prince's wife Danai Centrella-Davion was not her aunt by blood but her family's closeness to Reinhart Steiner's family had made her more closely related than anyone else in the world. “Where are my parents? Are they ok?†She demanded
“Easy Ariana†the woman whispered leaning forward helping Ariana back down “you don't want to open any of your wounds†she explained “what do you remember?â€
“We were in a car a large goods vehicle lost control ahead of us†she said remembering the events more clearly “I swerved to avoid it... someone else swerved at the same time...†she said her breath becoming more rapid “we hit them and rolled over and over†she said looking down at her bandaged hands “there was a fire, then I remember nothing.â€
“A small mercy, your wounds will heal in time†Danai said offering her a sad small smile “your vehicle separated into two halves†she said “the forward section where you were was carried away through the fires and came to a relative stop over a hundred metres from the rear section.â€
“And the rear...â€
“The rear, containing your parents, became wedged under another vehicle and... and was consumed by the flames†she said fighting back the tears moving up onto the edge of the bed “I'm sorry Ariana your parents were both killed.†She said the tears running down her cheeks the injured woman rolled over in her bed despite the pain and cried a thousand tears mourning her loss. Ariana barely heard Danai's offer of a place for her to stay at the Davion Palace; her world had fallen apart.
Within the Federated Suns a collective mourning for Reinhart Steiner began the man that had followed Victor Steiner-Davion back to the Federated Suns with the Tenth Lyran Guards, despite his Lyran heritage, who had fought for everything that Hanse Davion and Melissa Steiner believed in when they formed the Federated Commonwealth. Reinhart had not only been a figurehead for that lost state he had embraced his life in the Federated Suns fought and bled alongside its people and created a family there.
Due to the ongoing conflict with the Draconis Combine First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had little time to mourn the passing of his cousin and friend instead he quickly named the recently retired Galen Cox as the new Martial of Armies. Galen who had fought alongside Reinhart and Victor during the Clan War had been serving as Field Marshal Paul Bowman's aide on Tikonov serving the Crucis March until his announced plans to retire the in the latter half of 3094. Never a man that was would turn his back on duty, or the First Prince, Galen accepted the post on a temporary basis.
Counter-strike
New Mendham, Irurzin Prefecture
Military District of Benjamin, Draconis Combine
23rd March 3095
With Federated Suns forces continuing to fight on Weaponeta and Gandy's Luck First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion leading the Davion Assault Guards RCT and the First New Avalon Guards RCT supported by the FSS Black Prince, the first Mercury-class Battleship, and the FSS Dresari, a Davion III-class Destroyer, launch a strike across the border from Proserpina against New Mendham. The First Prince's strategy is simple cut off the attacking Combine forces starving their attacks on the Federated Suns' Draconis March.
In orbit over New Mendham a massive amount of aerospace forces defended the world as the DCMS had identified the world as key to holding open their offensive line. Within his DropShip Victor Steiner-Davion sat in the cockpit of his Dire Wolf OmniMech watching the screens the FSS Dresari was remaining close to the DropShips shielding them from Pocket WarShip and aerospace fighter attack however the FSS Black Prince was acting far more aggressively.
Using the vessel's massive speed advantage over its opponents the FSS Black Prince had set a course that would take it past the edge of the DCMS forces allowing it to concentrate on one of the two DCMS WarShips at a time while being able to defend against the other vessel's attacks. Its first target was the DCS Nagato, one of the Combine's three active Yamato-class Battleships, Victor watched his screens holding his breath as the FSS Black Prince approached the DCS Nagato nose first slamming the one and a half million ton Combine WarShip with naval gauss rifle and particle cannon as it approach causing massive damage before angling away from the WarShip at the final moment to show its starboard broadside sixteen heavy naval autocannons spat almost as one slamming into the DCS Nagato's nose and forward arcs causing huge amounts of damage.
Both the DCS Nagato and the DCS Vincent Kurita, an Omi Kurita-class Carrier, engaged the FSS Black Prince with their own weapons; a combination of naval lasers, particle cannons and gauss rifles. However due to the FSS Black Prince's speed the DCMS vessels were unable to cause large amounts of damage as the AFFS vessel had caused on the DCS Nagato. As the FSS Black Prince turned for another pass aerospace fighters from the DCS Vincent Kurita attempted to assault the DropShips streaming towards the surface however they were met by the steadfast defence of the FSS Dresari. Named for the family who ruled Kentares IV the vessel's crew were well versed in the atrocities committed by the Combine troops. The FSS Dresari moved itself in a way to spoil the aerospace fighter and DropShip attacks forcing them back towards their carrier vessels.
As Victor Steiner-Davion's DropShip the atmosphere the FSS Black Prince had completed its turn and was making a second charge at its enemy. Unlike the first time the FSS Black Prince had used its speed to get in behind the two Draconis Combine WarShips moving through their aft arcs, this avoided the majority of their firepower, and allowed the Battleships gunners to land a series of crippling naval autocannon strikes on the DCS Nagato's main engines. The DCS Vincent Kurita instead of taking the same punishment moved forward engaging the Federated Suns Battleship at long range causing minimal damage as the FSS Black Prince moved in around the DCS Nagato punishing the Yamato-class Battleship with a third pass. As the Mercury-class vessel moved away escape pods began to jettison from the dying WarShip. The DCS Vincent Kurita seeing the death of the DCS Nagato and having the FSS Dresari closing on it elected to retreat to fight another day collecting its aerospace fighters as it headed into deep space.
As First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion stepped his OmniMech off its DropShip he was greeted with a massive fireball streaking across the sky as the remains of the DCS Nagato lost orbit and plunged into the atmosphere. The damage already caused the the WarShip caused the Battleship to shatter into four pieces which slammed into the planet's largely unpopulated northern polar region. Spurned on by their naval victory the AFFS forces launched a full assault on the Ninth and Fifteenth Benjamin Regular Regiments, which had been assigned to defend the planet, the Davion Assault Guards and First New Avalon Guards were arguably the heaviest regimental combat teams in the entire AFFS with both fielding heavy/assault Mech and armour units supported by full brigades of Battle Armour equipped infantry forces do not allow the Regulars a moment of peace pushing them back continuously over a week of heavy fighting eventually forcing both units to surrender to the AFFS. News soon reached the First that the AFFS and Mercenary Forces resisting the Draconis Combine on Weponeta and Gandy's Luck had successfully captured both worlds following the arrival of the Second and Third Ceti Hussars RCTs along with those regiment's attached WarShip forces.
-
Time for a short month
Combat Training Centre, Osis Minor
Robinson, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
13th April 3095
At the Robinson's Combat Training Centre on Osis Minor an unidentified Robinson Regiment being carried by Federated Suns registered DropShips lands and occupies the training centre with minimal resistance. Because the DropShips were registered as Federated Suns vessels they had been allowed passed the FSS Audacity, a First Prince Block II-class Battleship, which had been guarding the Nadir point. Until landing at the Combat Training Centre the DropShips had not caused any trouble however upon their arrival on Robinson the troops ordered all AFFS Trainers and Trainees to leave the facility an took up defensive positions.
On hearing this Duke Tancred Sandoval placed the recently returned, and heavily understrength, First Robinson Rangers RCT on alert along with the First Robinson Training Battalion together the two units should have enough firepower to overcome any force that may cause threat to Robinson and the greater Federated Suns he also recalled the FSS Audacity to the planet, a transit which would take approximately seven days, during those seven days Duke Tancred planned to find out who these people were.
With his Templar OmniMech destroyed in the fighting on Marduk the Duke took to the field in a newly finished BLK-NT-5H Black Knight BattleMech. Marching his Mech towards the Training Centre Tancred activated his communications systems “this is Duke Tancred Sandoval identify yourself, your reason for being on this planet and what right you believe you have in occupying that facility?†He demanded over an open military frequency.
“My authority is my birthright†a voice replied a few moments later it took Tancred a few more moments to recognize the voice “Jerome?â€
“You do remember me cousin†the other man said “so you can see my family's money paid for this building, this entire facility.â€
“No, the people of the Federated Suns built this facility, we rule this March with the blessing of the people and of the Davion family.â€
“You know that's bull, Tancred, our family have made this March what it is without us Little Victor could never run the Federated Suns.†His cousin replied Tancred could feel his blood begin to boil at the insolent little man what did he think he could accomplish here?
“And your regiment? Mercenaries†Tancred asked there was at least a regiment of BattleMechs in and around the Training facility.
“Not one of them†Jerome replied “every single one of them was born and bred in the Draconis March on worlds that we have ruled for all our lives.†His cousin said “every Mech was purchased using funds that I and my associate put forward this is the First Robinson Strikers Regiment.â€
“You have no right to use that name†Tancred snapped back “I believe that we should meet Joseph face to face and discuss your plans here today.â€
“I agree one hour from now in the main training hall? You and I?â€
“Agreed, my command company will accompany me to the perimetre. Make sure your people are aware of our approach.†The Robinson Duke warned.
“They will be, Tancred, they are well trained people.â€
An hour later Tancred and his company approached the Training Centre the Mechs around the facility allowed them to close before closing the gap of their approach. Tancred left his BattleMech, leaving the rest of his company to guard while he moved into the facility which was a deadly silent since the trainees had been evacuated. In the meeting hall his cousin stood smiling he wore his AFFS uniform with a sword on his weapons belt “hello Tancred.â€
“Hello Jeromeâ€
“I am sorry it has come to thisâ€
“What has it come to?†Tancred asked his cousin's hands were away from the weapon.
“It time for you to give up your position and pass it to someone who is ready to take responsibility for it.†Jerome said in a matter of fact answer.
“You're being serious?â€
“Yes, you had no right to begin this conflict with the Draconis Combine.â€
“They tried to kill my family; your family!†Tancred said angrily anyone could understand his actions; revenge was hardly a new thing in the Inner Sphere.
“Yes, but instead of planning an invasion you led a pitiful strike that cost you the majority of an RCT and started a WAR.â€
“I didn't start the war, those on Robinson did, who's to say that those who are eying my position did not influence that?†He asked his cousin burst into laughter
“You think I would actually need to?†Jerome asked “you cannot even control your commanders of this March, Tancred, if you are not in their presence. They need a firmer hand than you've been giving them.â€
“You're right†Tancred admitted they had started this because he had attacked the Combine. They needed to understand a raid did not mean a war. “But it's not you or Mordecai that need to be that hand.†Tancred said revealing his hand he knew the two cousins were close and after finding out Jerome was leading this force he put two and two together. Mordecai had put the funds into Jerome's hands, if Jerome removed him then Mordecai could be the power behind the throne or if the two came into conflict he could step in as the reasonable alternative even Victor could believe that.
“Our cousin believes in fair representation for all the March.â€
“Fair representation? You mean further funding and defence contracts to his backwater?†Mordecai ruled Mayetta one of the inner worlds of the Draconis March little chance of being awarded prestigious defence contracts.
“This isn't about Mordecai, Tancred, this is about what is best for this March do you surrender it?â€
“Noâ€
“Then we have nothing more to talk about. Your company is free to leave Tancred should any of your forces close on mine we will consider them hostile.â€
“You're being serious? Jerome I have an entire RCT, Training Battalion and a Militia force.â€
“I am being deadly serious Tancred†Jerome said the Duke could now see more anger on his face than before “you will also find you have an understrength RCT and Training Battalion and that by the time you return to your base the Militia has changed its deployment pattern.†He said shocking Tancred, his cousin has usurped his own planetary militia! “I asked them to do so peacefully and to interrupt us if something went wrong.â€
“Went wrong!†Tancred said angrily pointing his finger at his cousin “you are bringing Civil War to Robinson!â€
“Your failures as a leader brought that.â€
“Even with the Combine closing in on us.â€
“Even with†Jerome said his voice full of determination.
“I have the Audacity on its way to the planet it is not swayed by our name Jerome purely by my rank and none of your men are recognized by me as AFFS. You are a rogue element.â€
“If it is your choice to bombard your own planet then it shows how far you have fallen, Tancred, good day.†He said turning his back on Tancred the Duke was sorely tempted to strike him down here and then but that would solve nothing and probably kick off the entire conflict. He needed another option turning around he quickly left the complex returning to his company.
As Jerome had said the Robinson Militia had redeployed to a “more effective position†which happened to take them off the Robinson Rangers flank and closer to the Strikers. Although the Militia was nowhere near striking range of the Rangers they were hardly in a supporting position. Tancred ordered his people to maintain readiness facing both other units on the planet while traveling to Robinson City to use the HPG to communicate with First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion or Marshal of Armies (pro-tem) Galen Cox; the Combine wasn't the only problem facing the Federated Suns.
Construction
McKenna Shipyards, Kathil Orbit
Capellan March, Federated Suns
21st April 3095
After four years of extensive repairs and rebuilding the McKenna Shipyards in orbit over Kathil are brought back online. At the shipyards work begins again on the three partially completed Avalon-class Cruisers the FSS Samuel Davion, FSS Jackson Davion and the FSS Jennifer Davion. Instead of building these vessels to their original configuration the McKenna Shipyards engineers plan to build them to a newly designed Block II configuration, an upgraded class of vessel which takes advantage of several advances in technology such as the Lithium Fusion Battery Mk II, Laser Anti-Missile Systems, Rotary Autocannons and Silver Bullet Gauss Rifles, the class also carries twenty aerospace fighters a significant increase of the vessel's original complement. Although not the largest ship in the AFFS Navy the class is seen as one of the ships the AFFS are most prideful about.
Ground Battle Site
Robinson, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
28th April 3095
Duke Tancred Sandoval walked among the broken Mechs and Armour of his command. A lance of Mechs loyal to Jerome Sandoval had encountered a lance of Tancred's Rangers. The battle had rapidly escalated as both sides called for reinforcements. For nearly an hour the two forces battled before finally breaking off the engagement. Nearly a combined arms regiment of militia and Striker units loyal to Jerome had been destroyed while two battalions of Tancred's forces had fallen the only saving grace was that his forces had held the battle ground and could salvage some of the machines the lost personnel were irreplaceable. To stop any further accidental comings together Tancred had pulled his units back he didn't want to bring civil war to Robinson hopefully this was an isolated incident that they could step back from the abyss before things got totally out of hand.
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The Avalon Block II-class Cruiser
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/avalon-block-ii-class-cruiser-(alternate-timeline-with-thanks-au)/msg38264/#msg38264 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/avalon-block-ii-class-cruiser-(alternate-timeline-with-thanks-au)/msg38264/#msg38264)
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District of Dieron Offensive
Quentin, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
7th May 3095
Following a series of heavy riots on Quentin the Draconis Combine deploy the Second Yokosuka Special Naval Landing Force Regiment, a unit made up entirely of LAMs mainly Wasp and Shadow Hawk models, supported by the DCS Galedon Explorer, a Kyushu-class Frigate, assaults the AFFS defenders. Already weakened and distracted by the rioting the civilians the LAMs quickly overwhelm the Tenth Deneb Light Cavalry LCT with air and ground attacks at the same time Infantry and Battle Armour units move in from multiple directions forcing the AFFS unit to surrender.
In simultaneous attacks the DCMS attack the worlds of Al Na'ir, Helen, Errai and Small World Akira Tormark, and his Sons of the Dragon Special Forces team, lead the recently reformed Fifteenth Dieron Regulars Regiment and the Sixth Sword of Light Regiment attack Al Na'ir crushing elements of the Eighth Crucis Lancers RCT and the Second Albion Training Cadre Regiment. On Helen and Errai other elements of the Eighth Crucis Lancers are forced to retreat.
Combat Landing
Robinson, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
9th May 3095
On hearing of the fighting on Robinson First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had taken a combined-arms force on three Conquistador-class DropShips via JumpShip Command-Circuit to Robinson leaving the majority of the First New Avalon Guards and Davion Assault Guards on New Mendham along with the FSS Dresari and FSS Black Prince.
Landing at three different landing zones around the Strikers and Militia forces Victor had ordered his people to encircle the units that had been fighting against those loyal to Tancred Sandoval before taking to the field himself. Marching his Dire Wolf through the ranks of his troops Victor activated the Mech's communication system “Jerome Sandoval, this is Victor Steiner-Davion, I order all the forces under your command to stand down immediately. Failure to do so will result in your forces being attacked by mine; if that happens you will also be fighting against me.†He said if any of these warriors were actually loyal to the Federated Suns then they would stand down, Jerome Sandoval included.
“First Prince Davion, sire, we are standing up for the unheard voices of this March.†Jerome Sandoval replied
“You have been heard loud and clear†Victor said angrily “you will not get another warning†he said leaving it for several minutes. Victor switched channels “this is Prometheus all commands prepare assault on my command.†He said grimly still listening for a reply from Jerome he did not wish to attack these people but he would if required he'd ordered the FSS Audacity to remain in orbit and to shoot-down any unauthorized DropShip launches once it was clear of the atmosphere.
“First Prince Davion, we will surrender†Jerome Sandoval said after a few more moments “I have ordered all of my men to stand down it's over.†He said sounding like a man defeated.
“Good, you and the commanders of the Strikers and the Militia will surrender yourselves to my military police if any of you resist my men have been ordered to take you down dead or alive.†Victor warned it was not enough that these men had surrendered.
“I understand there will be no resistance†the man said accepting his fate.
Hours later Victor met with Tancred within Castle Robinson Victor was angry that it had gotten to this stage he'd always had a friend in Tancred but the March Lord needed to understand his failings. “It shouldn't have been allowed to get to this†Victor said angrily “your responsibility is to the whole March Tancred not just your family†he said continuing to round on the older man “the Combine shouldn't have tried to attack you or your family but starting a war was not the way to get your own back.†He said pacing back and fourth
“I didn't start the war those on Robinson didâ€
“Exactly!†Victor shouted exploding in anger “YOU are the March Lord. It is YOUR responsibility to make sure they understand what is expected of them. It is YOUR responsibility to keep them in line and it's YOUR damned responsibility to keep your family in check.†He said stressing how much lay on Tancred; Victor knew what it was like dealing with family 'issues' he needed to make sure that the leader of the Draconis March knew it as well. “Once this mess is over with the Combine you better get your house together or I will.†He warned marching towards the doors.
“Yes, sire†Tancred mumbled as Victor stepped by “Victor, I am willing to contact the Combine and offer them terms for peace.†He said stopping the First Prince in his tracks; although Victor did not turn. “They were in the wrong, but we made it a war, I am willing to take responsibility for my actions that caused it and take the step towards peace.†He said addressing Victor's back Tancred knew that his friend, and liege Lord, was still angry at him.
“Make your offer†Victor said after a moments thought turning towards Tancred looking him in the eyes “if they do not reply we are going to make them pay for it.†He said finally turning around and marching from the room leaving Tancred to his own thoughts.
National Address, Castle Robinson
Robinson, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
11th May 3095
Tancred Sandoval sat in front of the camera dressed in his full AFFS Field Marshal uniform as he spoke into the camera. “People of the Draconis March, the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine. A conflict has occurred between the Draconis Combine and Federated Suns, one that was caused by wrongs on both sides, we have both had our victories and our losses.†He said “I am now ready to offer the Draconis Combine a peaceful outcome to this conflict should they be willing to return this message.†He said pausing “to those who have heard of conflict on Robinson. This has been resolved those responsible for it are in custody. We are one nation and we will fight all threats to our last breath; we do not want this war but if it continues we will fight.†He promised signing off the camera. He had been tempted to mention that Jerome Sandoval was one of those in custody and on his way to a maximum security facility, one that even Tancred did not know the location, however he wished to leave it. As Victor had said after the conflict was over with the Draconis Combine he would need to put his family and commanders in their places if not for himself then for his children.
Principality of Regulus Raid
Ashburton, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
24th May 3095
As part of the Thunder Road's contract with the Bowang Free Trade Sphere they were required to assist in training the native forces of the Bowang Free Trade Sphere. One such unit was the Ashburton Defence League, a combined-arms regiment, because they were still settling into their base on Bowang Colonel John Wrangler had taken his command company in one of Bowang's Union-class DropShips.
For nearly a week the Thunder Road had fought simulated battle after simulated battle with the Ashburton unit however they had been interrupted by the arrival of a battalion strong Eighth Regulan Hussars. Wrangler had held the centre line with his command lance supported by the best battalion the Ashburton Defence League had while both other lances led the weaker Battalions. Ashburton had been one of many Free Worlds League systems that had benefited from Bowang's close proximity and good relationship with the Rim Association and had more than two companies of Fuel Cell powered BattleMechs with additional carried weapons, however, these units did little against the Regulan units.
Instead the Thunder Road led the defence against the Eighth Regulan Hussars Regiment were a sister regiment of the Tenth Regulan Hussars which the Thunder Road had defeated on Emris IV. As a result Wrangler and his men ended up fighting a far tougher battle than they had expected losing two of their Mechs. The Ashburton Defence League took far heavier damage than the Thunder Road but they were successful in their defence pushing the Regulans off the planet.
As a way of showing their gratitude the Ashburton donated two of their undamaged Fuel Cell powered twenty ton Chevalier BattleMechs to the Thunder Road along with their pilots as volunteers to join the mercenary command. These Mechs were lighter more and brittle than most of the Mechs that had ever served with the mercenary command but they were better than nothing. John Wrangler promised himself and the unit that he would get a pair of 'proper' Mechs to replace the two Chevaliers as soon as the unit had the funds to buy them.
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Donegal News Network
Donegal, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
11th June 3095
Donegal News Network cover a story on Clan Wolf (in-Exile)'s change to the name of Clan Mountain Wolf. Speaking with people from across the Province and beyond into the greater Lyran Commonwealth, generally Lyrans are supportive of the change although many within the Isle of Skye region see the Wolf's closer ties to the Lyran state as yet more reason for Skye to have further powers that are currently controlled by Tharkad. Beyond the Lyran Commonwealth there's little interest in the change to the Mountain Wolf Clan due to their little contact with the Clan.
Meeting Hall, Tain-tan
St Ives, St Ives Compact
18th June 3095
Months of secret negotiations between the Federated Suns and the St Ives Compact had led to this meeting between Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao, Duchess Kym Hasek and Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek. Melissa Allard-Liao. Melissa looked over the desk at the younger woman who would soon take over the running of the Federated Suns Capellan March; if the rumours were to be believed. “With this agreement I officially turn all of St Ives worlds to the care of the Federated Suns; including my own St Ives.†She said the move had not been popular with all her worlds she knew however she also knew that the St Ives Compact could not survive on its own. As much AFFS troops, or AFFS hired mercenaries, were garrisoned within the St Ives Compact as there were in the St Ives Armoured Cavalry and the St Ives Compact had nearly bankrupted itself trying to rebuilt destroyed commands; the factories on Warlock had done the majority of the work but supplying these facilities had been costly as had the additional labour.
“And these are worlds that will be defended†Kym Hasek said she didn't know what else there was to be said this was her first official act as a representative of the Federated Suns and Capellan March. “Duchess Allard-Liao...â€
“St Ives will still be an important world†Nathaniel Hasek promised stepping in seeing his neice was struggling. “St Ives will be at the head of the St Ives PDZ of the Capellan March and the St Ives Armoured Cavalry will form into a Brigade of their own within the AFFS. Tamas Rubinsky†he said glancing at Melissa Allard-Liao's military adviser “will command this brigade should he choose? Day-to-day life will change very little for your people.†He said looking back at Melissa Allard-Liao who nodded initially the St Ives Compact had asked for loans of money or to long term lease WarShips from the Federated Suns Navy.
As news spreads of the St Ives Compact's decision to join the Federated Suns there is outrage from within the Capellan Confederation at this “conquest†by the larger state. Other members of the Star League Protectorate ensure that the Federated Suns will not get two votes at a council but otherwise react with little further interest. Members of the AFFS, who have fought alongside their St Ives Compact counterparts for many years, welcome the St Ives Armoured Cavalry into the AFFS although the Ceti Hussars Brigade Commander questions why the St Ives Jannisaries Commands, which make up the majority of the new St Ives Brigade are not being added to their command. While civilians of the Capellan March wonder if the Allard-Liao family and St Ives will replace the Hasek family and New Syrtis.
In addition to the St Ives Compact joining the Federated Suns it is announced that the Duchess Jaylen Davion would be assigned to the St Ives to assist with the transformation of the world into a PDZ capital and to assist in setting up new AFFS facilities on the planet.
First Davion Guards RCT Command Base
New Ivaarsen, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
25th June 3095
In response to the continued attacks by the Draconis Combine on the Draconis March Burton Davion's unit had been assigned to the defence of New Ivaarsen along with the First New Ivaarsen Chasseurs LCT so far they had exercised a lot and practiced the plan to defend the world more times than Burton Davion could count. He'd heard elements of the Crucis Lancers and other Davion Guard RCTs were moving into the Draconis March as well as several naval and commands there had been no response to Tancred Sandoval's call for peace and now Burton's father planned to make the Draconis Combine sue for peace on his terms.
Stepping into his quarters he pulled open the front of his duty uniform jumpsuit almost at the same time as he staggered onto the bed. The Prince laid there for several minutes before he heard the bleeping from his computer. Sitting up he walked back across the room slumping into the desk chair activating it. He noticed that there was a waiting message for his attention clicking on it he leaned back as the message loaded up.
Moments later the insignia of the Raven Alliance insignia, a black Raven in front of a blue sunburst, appeared and was quickly replaced by Khan Sterling McKenna's face. The Khan looked as beautiful as she had been when he'd last seen her although she looked a little sad and perhaps tired “Burton, I send you this message not to put responsibility on you or to worry you...†she said pausing now she did feel worried “...this is your son, Luther.†She said lifting up a baby into view he was wrapped in a white cover he looked tiny “perhaps during our last meeting we should have been more careful.†She said glancing down at the cradled baby “he will be well cared for Burton Davion but I thought that you should know about him.†She said moments later the screen went blank.
Burton Davion sat back in his chair and slowly looked up at the ceiling before shouting at the top of his voice in a mixture of anger and frustration. He didn't know how he'd been so stupid or how he would explain this mess to his parents. An answer for another day Burton thought he stepped back towards the bed crashing down onto it for a second time this time for the night as he slipped into an exhausted sleep.
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People know about most factions in the BT Universe but what about the Star League Protectorate
Bonus Time
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/faction-star-league-protectorate/msg38316/#msg38316 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/faction-star-league-protectorate/msg38316/#msg38316)
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Crucis Lancers Counter-attack
Iruzun Prefecture, Military District of Benjamin
Draconis Combine
7th July 3095
Not waiting for the Davion Guards to move into position Field Marshal Sora Higginson orders the Second, Third and Fifth Crucis Lancers RCTs along with several mercenary commands into action along the Draconis Combine border. The Crucis Lancers strike not at worlds that the Draconis Combine have recently taken but instead at worlds of Mata, Romam and Barlow's Folly.
On each of the worlds they encounter Fourth Amphigean Light Assault Regiment and the Second Night Stalkers Regiment. In both cases the Crucis Lancers overwhelm and drive back the Draconis Combine defenders. This attack does not blunt Combine offensives however it does tie up elements of the DCMS and secure the area of space around Proserpina ensuring no DCMS forces can push onto this former Combine stronghold. Not finished with these worlds Sora Higginson turns her eye towards Galtor III intending on cutting off the Draconis Combine's supply lines.
Demonstration Trial
MW Site 1, Arc Royal
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
18th July 3095
In a demonstration on Arc Royal Clan Mountain Wolf debut the forty ton Arctic Wolf II OmniMech which is designed to be a fast scout and harassing Mech. The Mountain Wolves had gone for the heavier chassis to allow the Mech to take hits that lighter designs could not survive which would be beneficial to their small touman.
During the demonstration the Arctic Wolf II shows off a series of possible configurations many involving weapons however they also demonstrate the design mimicking several smaller Mechs including the Pack Hunter and Solitaire showing this Mech could be substituted for both, and other designs, while also being able to take more punishment than the conventional designs. The Lyran Commonwealth and Star League Defence Force both show interest in the design as does the Kell Hounds and Wolf's Dragoons commands.
Twenty-third Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd July 3095
The Twenty-third Star League Games takes place on Solaris VII during the entire competition the Clan warriors taking part show their superiority however they also show their brutal efficiency. Three Solaris VII favourites Saito Hajime, Martha Masters and Rich Blaine are killed when these Clansmen kill the pilots with extremely well placed head shots. The Clan domination of the competition continues until MechWarrior Cassar of the Rasalhague Dominion, piloting an experimental design known as the GDR-1D Gravedigger, wins the final match claiming the year's trophy.
Draconis Combine Attacks
Draconis March, Federated Suns
29th July 3095
Ignoring the Crucis Lancers assaults into their territory the Draconis Combine push into the Dobson, Le Blanc, Doneval II and Xhosa III systems. In the Xhosa III system they encounter the Sixth Crucis Lancers RCT which had been preparing to strike on the Draconis Combine. A planet wide battle begins between the Sixth and the Draconis Combine's Elite First Genyosha Regiment although outnumbered three-to-one the Genyosha warriors superior skill and equipment kept them ahead of the AFFS unit. The recent Draconis Combine attacks threaten New Ivaarsen, Robinson and the integrity of the Draconis March; threatening to split it in half.
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Into August I'm on nights for a few days so probably no update for a wee bit but never know I may get bored ;)
Tamarind News Broadcast
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey
Former Free Worlds League
12th August 3095
It was late evening on Tamarind when the news went out a flustered looking blonde haired female reported appeared on the screen the smudged make-up on her face indicating that she had been crying. “Ladies and Gentlemen of Tamarind, I am Louisa Gordon, at 16:43 Tamarind local time there was an explosion at the Tamarind Land and Air Works factory outside the Capital Zanzibar which caused severe structural damage.†She explained pausing “the facility which was still under construction would have brought a new source of Land-Air-Mechs to our Duchy with designs being built here under license from Gilmour MilTech of Talitha.†She said “to mark this monumental achievement by out people, and to show his pride in their work, Commanding-General Anthony Brett-Marik the current First Lord of the Star League Defence Force was at the facility."
“It is my sad duty to announce that despite the efforts of Tamarind Search and Rescue Teams and of the Royal Black Watch that I can confirm that Anthony Brett-Marik is dead. Reports from the coroner suggest that he died quickly. The Brett-Marik family have refused to post a comment on this tragedy however it appears that Anthony's first born Duchess Chloe will become leader of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey. Chloe has long been an outspoken opponent to Tamarind's attempt to sway control over the Former-Free Worlds League so it is believed that she will not take the title Captain-General.†She said pausing for a moment “the Royal Black Watch Regimental Brigade's commander has announced that they will remain on Tamarind until Anthony Brett-Marik is laid to rest. As of yet it is unknown who will serve as the new First Lord Anthony only took the post at the Whitting Conference in December 3094. Ladies and Gentlemen please join me in a moments silence and remember Captain-General Anthony Brett-Marik and the good he did for our nation.†She said finishing off the camera remained on for several moments in silence before fading to black.
Days after the passing of Captain-General Anthony Brett-Marik his eldest daughter Duchess Chloe Brett-Marik is confirmed as the new leader of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey. Unlike the posts of its member states the position of First Lord does not pass to the son/daughter of a fallen leader instead Commanding-General Archer Christifori is again made leader of the Star League by the Star League Advisory Council until another can be elected. Archer's first action is to confirm that the First Royal Black Watch Regimental Brigade will remain on Tamarind as a mark of respect until a new First Lord is elected an announcement that is welcomed by the people of Tamarind.
Capellan Confederation Offensive
St Ives PDZ, Capellan March
Federated Suns
15th August 3095
In response to the St Ives Compact's 'surrender' to the Federated Suns Capellan Confederation troops invade the worlds of Brighton, Taga, Nashur, Indicass and St Loris in a series of hard hitting attacks moving before further AFFS forces, including WarShips, can enter the PDZ. They are pushed back off Nashur, Indicass and St Loris however the defenders casualties are high with the Third St Ives Janissaries RCT destroyed in the fighting on St Loris with the survivors folded into the other Janissaries units. Some of the survivors request a transfer to the Ceti Hussars RCTs as they are similar in formation to their fallen unit and they are away from the Capellan border.
Included in the Capellan's force is Miller's Mailed Fist Mercenary Command a Battalion sized command which normally specialized in garrison contracts for the Capellan. The unit which is made up of former Taurian Concordat officers and warriors jumps at the chance to punish the now badged AFFS St Ives based units.
The Triad
Mount Wotan, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
21st August 3095
For four years The Triad a sprawling complex made up of over three hundred buildings had been off limits to citizens and workers of the Lyran Commonwealth. When Tharkad's massive nuclear power reactor had exploded in 3091 the area had been saturated with radioactive particles making the area inaccessible.
The Lyran Armed Forces had spent considerable resources on cleaning up the mess that had been left with troops in the area every single day cleaning and sterilizing everything that had been left in the contaminated zone. Archon Peter Steiner-Davion had stayed away from the area not to crowd the workers but today was an important one he and his wife Isis Steiner walked through the snow through the area turning to the camera crew Peter smiled proudly “ladies and gentlemen please join me in rejoicing over the opening of The Triad and the Royal Court buildings here on Tharkad.†He said “our military have worked tirelessly to make sure this area is safe for all to visit and to work†he said looking around “to the people of Arcturus, who are likely sitting at home right now thinking that they will soon be abandoned, I will be keeping my family home on Arcturus.†He said breaking the news traditionally the Royal Family had stayed near the Triad and the Government buildings “more decentralization to our nation will help us in the future adapt to future hurdles while The Triad will once more be the centre of our government.â€
He said some of the people would not like what Peter had planned but with these changes he hoped that if Tharkad or Arcturus was taken out then the Lyran nation would not be decapitated in one swoop. Peter's actions brought support from the Isle of Skye Decentralized Government who cite the greater flexibility and growth that the Isle of Skye has encountered since the government had received further powers.
Commanding-General's Announcement
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
28th August 3095
As Commanding-General/First Lord-protem Archer Christifori calls for a Federated Suns and Draconis Combine cease fire and peace talks the Federated Suns launch a three pronged counter attack on the Draconis Combine with Victor Steiner-Davion launching an assault on Xhosa III assisting the Crucis Lancers units on the planet while his son Burton Davion launched an assault on Doneval III and Duke Tancred Sandoval targeting Le Blanc. In all three attacks the Davion forces are supported by WarShips and utilize orbital support fire in open areas to break the Draconis Combine lines and to force them to operate in smaller groups. On all three worlds the Combine troops remain engaged with the AFFS troops contesting the worlds while further DCMS attacks strike back at the worlds of New Mendham, Marlow's Folly and Mata expanding the fighting along the border. On Xhosa III Victor Steiner-Davion knows that the fighting cannot continue but also knows that the Combine has not answered two calls for peace.
Mercenary Formation
Nashur, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
29th August 3095
Following the Capellan Confederation attacks on the former St Ives Compact worlds survivors of the Third St Ives Janissaries RCT refuse to be folded into the other Janissaries units like the other warriors. Instead they tender their resignations from the AFFS forming with several other VTOL pilots forming the Apache Wing a new mercenary command under the command of Major Victoria McCauley.
The members of the command put together their monies to purchase an experimental Cloud Ten Carrier Airship. The one thousand ton vessel is capable of carrying sixteen of the unit's VTOLs while their Mule-class DropShip is capable of fully supporting the unit. Intent on keeping themselves away from the Capellan Confederation the unit accepts a contract with the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey.
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Yay an update! The Second SL First-Lord assassinated? Hmmm... If Katherine SD was still alive, I would say she was behind it. Since she is not I will go to the default bogeyman faction: The WoB as being behind the assassination.
Also, looks like you are nicely keeping the DC/FS border war going, I wonder if there will be more 'social-generals' with the LC's decentralization of government from Tharkad and Arcturus. (I wonder if this will keep the Skye seperatist calm and quiet in the mean time), and finally the CC response to the FS absorption of the St. Ives Compact.
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Don't work to hard DC.
Great to see my Battalion in the story thanks.
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Yay an update! The Second SL First-Lord assassinated? Hmmm... If Katherine SD was still alive, I would say she was behind it. Since she is not I will go to the default bogeyman faction: The WoB as being behind the assassination.
could have been an accident... :-X the WoB are dead... ;)
Also, looks like you are nicely keeping the DC/FS border war going, I wonder if there will be more 'social-generals' with the LC's decentralization of government from Tharkad and Arcturus. (I wonder if this will keep the Skye seperatist calm and quiet in the mean time), and finally the CC response to the FS absorption of the St. Ives Compact.
Skye calm and content wonders never cease. There's already a social-general he's the General of Armies.
Don't work to hard DC.
Great to see my Battalion in the story thanks.
Thank you for suggesting them, you suggest it I'll use it.
So I got bored into September we go!!
Davion Royal Spaceport
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
9th September 3095
Leftenant Ariana Steiner stepped down the ramp from the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry's DropShip walking towards Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion and her brother Colonel Richard Steiner. “The baby's all tucked up†she said joking about her father's nickname for his Warhawk OmniMech, when Ariana and Richard were younger, she'd heard from her uncle and aunt that he had some more unpleasant names for the OmniMech during the Clan War.
“You don't have to go, Ariana, you are welcome to stay as long as you want.†Danai Centrella-Davion said trying to keep her voice on the level. Ariana had stayed at the Palace during her recovery from the accident that had claimed her parent's lives but her mental recovery would take far longer.
“I know Aunt Danai but I need to get off New Avalon... away from all this.†She said “I appreciate everything you've done for me.â€
“If it weren't for this war I'm sure that Victor would have been here too.â€
“Tell the First Prince thank you for everything†She said glancing to her brother at her side “Richard... I... I need to do this.â€
“I know sis, I don't hold anything against you, you know?†He said “but you need to sort out what you hold against yourself.†He said looking towards the ground “just remember Ariana I'm always here for you and there are people that care for you.â€
“Thanks†she whispered tears running down her face “I'll be in touch†she said turning away from them walking back up the ramp.
“Take care baby girl†Danai said trying to smile Reinhart Steiner's children were family to her through her marriage with Victor their entire lives had been linked with hers now it broke her heart that she couldn't help Ariana more but she knew that, like her own children, Ariana needed to find her own path.
“She'll be alright†Richard said “she's her father's daughter†he said confidently their father had told them how to fight and how to live. As Danai and Richard walked away from the DropShip Danai silently wondered if they had been told how to heal, Ariana was still hurting emotionally if not physically, she likely would be for some time.
Border Battle
Benfeld, Arc-Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th September 3095
While Khan Patrik Fetladral is checking on Mountain Wolf facilities on Benfeld Clan Jade Falcon launch a Trial of Possession for the Mountain Wolf's new OmniMech the Arctic Wolf II. Intent on showing the Jade Falcons that his Clan would not be pushed about Khan Fetladral joined the battle. During the battle, which the Mountain Wolves lost, a Kraken 4 BattleMech placed its assault-class Ultra autocannon against Fetladral's Mech canopy and fired instantly killing the Mountain Wolf Khan. Following their victory the Jade Falcons agree to leave the Mech with their prize OmniMech.
Days later saKhan Evan Kell is elevated to the position of Khan of Clan Mountain Wolf while relative newcomer Declan Kerensky is promoted to the position of saKhan.
Strategy Meeting
Xhosa III, Draconis March
Federated Suns
24th September 3095
With the Federated Suns Counter-attack well underway First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion allowed the remains of First Genyosha Regiment to retreat off Xhosa III. He'd then called for a strategy meeting calling in his son Prince Burton Davion, Duke Tancred Sandoval, Field Marshal Sora Higginson and Marshal of Armies Galen Cox each arriving by pirate point to allow them to land on planet in the fastest time possible. They had agreed that the next round of AFFS attacks would be focused on Dobson, Breed, Paris, Tripoli, Marduk and Galtor III as they planned to force the DCMS out of the Draconis March.
As they had been speaking a message came into the command centre and was routed to Victor it was from the Draconis Combine and it claimed they were ready to talk peace and that the recently “liberated†world of Al Na'ir as the meeting point. “Change of plan†Victor said looking around the others “I am going to Al Na'ir with Tancred†he said looking at the Draconis March's Duke “we'll take a significant force with us and meet up with the FSS Black Prince on the way.†He said already he'd plans to take three additional WarShips before entering into the system. “Meanwhile we're going to keep up the pressure on the Combine†he said glancing at Galen Cox who nodded “Sora, you're going to take command of the assaults on Dobson and Breed, I want the Combine on the back foot when I'm speaking to them.†The young woman nodded confidently she didn't look old enough to be a Field Marshal but according to Galen Cox she was one of the best the AFFS had. “Galen, you're going to Robinson, I want the Combine on the back foot not looking to start a bigger conflict. Keep the commanders there focused on our plans not their own†he said glancing at Tancred he still wasn't sure that the Duke had things under control. “We leave as soon as everything is in place†he said dismissing them as they filtered out Galen and Burton hung back Victor looked at Galen and tilted his head towards the door the man nodded and made his way out leaving the First Prince and his son. “You were quiet†Victor said glancing over the maps on the table not actually taking in any of the information presented “not annoyed that I placed Sora in command?â€
“No she's a Brigade Commander and she certainly knows her stuff.†He admitted she was one to watch for the future and hopefully she would support him as she had his father.
“And the First Davion are ready for Breed?â€
“More than ready father Doneval was a nice entry but I have a feeling that Breed will be more challenging.†He said it was rumoured that the Vincent Kurita, the Omi Kurita-class Carrier that had avoided destruction when facing the Black Prince, was in the system as a result Burton's attack would be supported by the FSS Audacity.
“Then what's bothering you?†He asked he knew well enough to know that Burton was preoccupied. His son continued to tell Victor how he and Sterling McKenna had gotten together on board the Audacity and how over the last ten years he had encountered her time and again and each time came away feeling changed. “So what do you want to do about it?†Victor finally asked trying to get over the fact that he was now a grand-father to a clanner he silently wondered what it was with his family and the Clans. First the Nova Cats and now the Snow Ravens it was so much easier when he was the only one breaking the rules in chasing Omi Kurita.
“I want to know where she stands. Her son has my blood running through its veins I want to see him†Burton said.
“Sora and Galen can coordinate the March's battles against the Draconis Combine.†Victor said breathing heavily “You don't need to come with us to Al Na'ir†he said continuing “the FSS Nathan Duvall accompanied Galen here from the Crucis March. I can dispatch it with you to the Snow Raven border. You may send a message but you are not to cross into the Raven Alliance unless they allow you entry do you understand?â€
“Yes, I do, thank you father.†Burton said sheepishly he had no idea how Sterling McKenna would react to his arrival on the border but he needed to try.
“Family and love a powerful motivators son you'll understand...†he stopped speaking realizing what he was about to say “...you'll understand once your son is older†he said correcting himself.
Mercenary Contract
Sophie's World, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
29th September 3095
Refusing to renew their contract with the Marian Hegemony the Blades Legion Mercenary Command accept a contract with the Principality of Regulus their first Inner Sphere contract since their formation in 3092. The Blade's Legion are assigned to Sophie's World reinforcing defences on the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Oriente Protectorate borders. This keeps the unit away from the Lyran Commonwealth border but brings them back into the Inner Sphere where the higher rates of pay are.
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Nova Cat Raid
Filtvelt Coalition, Periphery
1st October 3095
The Filtvelt Coalition suffer a series of raids from Clan Nova Cat which strike at Sherwood, Brookton, Ebro, Morven, Lackland and Broken Wheel. The Nova Cat unit, Sigma Galaxy, fight a series of honour trials against the Filtvelt Coalition. On Broken Wheel the the 449th Assault Cluster, the unit formerly commanded by Elson West, fought against the Third Filtvelt Guardians Regiment the unit which had killed Elson West. Although the 449th defeated the Third Filtvelt Guardians the Nova Cat command were impressed with the Coalition unit's adherence to Zellbrigen and released two pristine condition PAT-005b Puma Assault Tanks. These Royal vehicles had been maintained by the Nova Cats since the fall of the SLDF and since they were not Clan vehicles their maintenance would be easier for the periphery command.
Peace Negotiations
Al Na'ir, Ashio Prefecture
Bejamin Military District, Draconis Combine
15th October 3095
With the SLS Invincible and the SLDF's Third Brigade, First Division, the Bolton's Rangers Regimental Brigade in system First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Field Marshal Tancred Sandoval along with their own escorts had been allowed to enter the Al Na'ir system. The AFFS units had been allowed to land in a desolate area of the planet for several hours they had waited until a Bolton's Rangers Battalion had arrived and escorted them to the meeting area.
Now Victor and Tancred sat in a barely decorated room waiting for the DCMS party to arrive eventually Tai-shu Boris Petroff and newly named Duke of Al Na'ir Akira Tormark entered the room as stipulated by the SLDF who guarded the building the Draconis Combine party, like Victor and Tancred, had no weapons or guards however Victor knew that Akira was a very accomplished fighter.
“These battles must end, you have admitted your actions were wrong...†Akira began immediately not waiting for introductions.
“Out actions!†Tancred shouted back angrily raising to his feet his hands clenched “if your people had not attempted to murder my family...â€
“A falsity made up by your MIIO your own people have turned on you.†Akira Tormark claimed immediately Tancred glanced at Victor exposing the tension between them.
“Tai-shu Petroff, should we start again?†He asked looking at the District Warlord ignoring both Akira and Tancred.
“Yes, First Prince Davion, we should†he said glancing at Akira before back to Victor “both sides have made mistakes†he admitted “we have both won victories and had losses.â€
“Yes we have†Victor agreed
“We will maintain all our hold on our victories you will hold all of yours.â€
“Unacceptable†Victor said “you and I both know that the worlds you hold on Dobson, Breed and Paris will bring us into conflict again.â€
“Like the attacks that you authorized before coming to these negotiations†Akira retorted
“Our units are retaliating to threats against our March†Tancred responded in kind with the Duke.
“Instead I suggest an exchange†Victor suggested
“I'm listeningâ€
“You will return Dobson, Marduk, Tripoli, Paris and Breed to us.†Victor said effectively eliminating the Draconis Combine push toward Robinson. “We will return Romam, Mata, Barlow's Folly and New Mendham.†He suggested not mentioning the worlds the Combine had taken from the Addicks PDZ, including Al Na'ir, those worlds would have to wait for another day.
“We will exchange Dobson and Breed for the worlds of Romam and Mata†Petroff suggested
“So you can maintain your push at Robinson, New Ivaarsen and Proserpina I think not†Victor said
“Proserpina is one of our worlds†Akira Tormark said the world had not been a Combine world for more than a decade.
“Not any more†Tancred shot back Victor almost snapped at the two of them they were going to be a problem in the future he knew this.
“You have already lost Dobson and Breed will be lost sooner or later†Victor said “you can't hope to hold either beyond the week especially if I commit my reserves.†He said the only reserves he had were the Tikonov Cossacks which would gut the Crucis March's defences. “Marduk, Tripoli and Paris for Barlow's Folly and New Mendham.â€
“We maintain Marduk, you cannot take it Victor Davion without heavy losses†Petroff said the other worlds we will exchange as you say. We will also, as a sign of our good will, will release the survivors of the Tenth Deneb Light Cavalry LCT along with any prisoners we have.†The Warlord said
“And we will release the prisoners we have†Tancred said the AFFS didn't have a massive amount of POWs from this conflict but they had more than were managable.
“Agreed†Victor said standing up the Warlord joined him standing “your units fought well.â€
“As did yours†Petroff said.
While the two leaders understood where they were there was obvious tension between Tormark and Sandoval, something that Victor and now Petroff would have to keep an eye on, both sides knew that this conflict was over but it wouldn't be long before it started again.
Command Bridge, LCS Archon's Pride (Alliance-class Cruiser)
Great X, Arc-Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd October 3095
The LCS Archon's Pride, commanded by Kommodore Jessica Steiner, held just out of maximum range to a Clan Jade Falcon Sovetskii Soyuz-class WarShip which had entered the system unannounced. So far the WarShip had not tried to push into the system nor had any of the DropShips appeared to detach from the Heavy Cruiser. Aerospace fighters and DropShips from the Archon's Pride had been patrolling the area between the two vessels. On the command bridge Jessica Steiner watched the monitors which displayed information on the enemy vessel.
“We could take them†her executive officer Marc Esnault said from the side their ship was a superior vessel to the the Star League-era Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser.
“They haven't made a hostile move since arriving in the system.â€
“There very presence is a hostile act.â€
“Marc, are you so ready for another fight? The last time this WarShip was in a major battle we lost a third of the crew.†She said speaking of their encounter with the Manei Domini.
“We cannot be afraid of a fight because of a loss.†Jessica breathed heavily the man was a good first officer but sometimes she could scream at him.
“Are you questioning my command?†She said in a clear voice so others could hear she'd deal with her XO and the Jade Falcons in her own way.
“No, Kommodore, just advising you.â€
“Very good continue to monitor them rotate the patrols regularly all pilots get some time out there but they are to remain within our sphere of influence.†She ordered Marc nodded the Lyrans and Jade Falcons maintained their stand-off for fourteen hours before the Jade Falcon vessel jump clear of the system without further incident.
Purchase Order
Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
28th October 3095
Authorized by the Lyran Commonwealth's High Command Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad accept an order from the Star League Defence Force to produce eight Peter-class Scout vessels over a period of eleven years. The SLDF request access to one of the Lyran's Peter-class Scouts to train their crews however the Lyran High Command refuse access to their ships. Lockheed/CBM however have no restrictions on the SLDF visiting their construction facilities and testing the vessels in their advanced simulators which allow the crews to look at the ships and how they would act in space while on the ground.
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November
Border Conflict
St Ives PDZ, Capellan March
Federated Suns
8th November 3095
Just as the fighting on the Draconis Combine border appears to be winding down the Capellan Confederation launch raids against the former St Ives Compact worlds which now form the St Ives PDZ of the Federated Suns.
In an immediate counter-attack multiple AFFS and mercenary units including the First Kathil Uhlans RCT, First St Ives Lancers RCT and the Wild Geese Regiment launch counter attacks striking back at the Capellans. The counter-attacks are aimed specifically at former St Ives Compact worlds held by the Confederation no system changes hands however the AFFS prove to the St Ives worlds and their populations that they will stand by them against the Capellans. Involved in fighting with the Kathil Uhlans is Captain Kym Hasek and recently returned Richard Steiner.
Third Nova Cat Watch Cluster Raid
Carcri, Independent Periphery World
18th November 3095
As part of their duties to protect the Nova Cat's Den the Third Nova Cat Watch Cluster had covertly kept an eye on several of the surrounding periphery systems including the independent world of Carcri. The world was small and under developed many world's standards but it successfully stood on its own feet befitting from trade links to the near by systems of Caphai and Pegasi and from routine visits by the Interstellar Expeditions.
The Third Watch had first visited the world in late 3094 posing as traders they had been welcomed to the system with open arms. The people of Carci traded much goods including some valuable metals the Nova Cats did not have access to. During their various visits to the planet the Nova Cats had sensed something was wrong when in 3095 they intercepted a coded communication. For several weeks the members of the Watch had decoded and tracked the transmission back to its source identifying its origin as belonging to an SLDF Listening Post which had been spying on the Nova Cats.
Not wishing to see the colony on Carcri destroyed the Nova Cats landed at night and deployed their Binary of Nighthawk Power Armour suits. The Nighthawks rushed through the colony avoiding harming the civilians of the colony approaching the SLDF Listening Base which was disguised as a storage warehouse. As they approached heavy weapons fire erupted from the facility several of the Nighthawks were cut down by the fire. After several minutes of vicious fighting the Nova Cats were unable to break through the fire instead the Nova Cats called in their BattleMech support with a star each of Exterminator Dezgra and Spector Dezgra BattleMechs dropped from their DropShip using a hover-drop maneuver. With only support weapons facing them and no actual Mechs the Nova Cats walked through the facility gunning down all the occupants of the facility destroying the building with direct weapons fire or physical attacks before slipping into the night. None of their Mechs are marked as Nova Cat designs nor are any traditional Clan BattleMechs with all utilising stealth technology. The next day the colony awake to find the building in ruins with no sign of the attackers and very little of the rest of the colony damaged; clearly not a standard raider attack.
Assassination Attempt
Oriente, Oriente Protectorate
23rd November 3095
On Oriente an assassination attempt by four masked men is made on Jonas Halas and his family fail with an interception by Le Grande Cloche, The Grand Bell, Mercenary command. During the attempt three members of The Grand Bell are injured by the three gunmen and six members including Colonel Cosette Beauchene are killed. Two days later Colonel Amelia Bates is introduced to Captain-General Jonas Halas as the new commander of The Grand Bell, according to Bates Beaucene had been planning to step down soon and she was fully capable of commanding the Captain-General's guards. Halas also ordered a full investigation into the attempt as he believed the attack had come from within the nation from either his own family or from those who wished to support the Principality of Regulus.
Quarters of the Khan
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
29th November 3095
It had taken longer than Burton would have liked but he had finally arrived on Alpheratz and been escorted to the Quarters of the Khan by two armoured Elemental warriors. As the Prince walked in he had heard the light crying of a child; so what the message had said was true he thought. “Burton†Sterling McKenna said stepping into view she would a white form fitting top and tight trousers she looked as beautiful as ever.
“Khan McKenna†he replied
“So formal†she replied “and considering your visit is a personal one. Would you like to see your child Quiaff?†She asked cutting straight to the point he nodded wordlessly she signaled for him to follow her into the other room the baby was laying in a comfortable looking sleeping cot. “Your son Prince Davion†she said using his title Burton was worried but saw the playful smile on her face.
“He's beautiful†Burton said proudly glancing at her “I thought that Clan warriors couldn't have children some sort of safeguard to stop half your unit being lost to the birth of freeborns?â€
“Aff they do, however, each clan approaches these safeguards differently†Sterling said moving over to a comfortable looking couch Burton lingered at the cot for several moments before moving over to join her. “In the Ravens case we have always seen the benefit of certain freeborn children when bloodnamed warriors coupled their offspring sometimes led to insights into our genetics†she began to explain “to stop these warriors becoming a burden to their commands these embryos would be transferred to an iron womb and born like a trueborn the parents would continue to fight and their children would be cared for.†The matter of fact explanation she had given sounded perfectly normal to her but was a complete alien practice to Burton.
“You experimented on them?†Burton asked horrified looking at the cot.
“Neg, we allowed these children to develop into warriors and observed their careers. Should they be successful as warriors then future generations of Trueborns would be developed using similar genetics from the original warriors.â€
“Is that your plan for him?â€
“Neg, I chose to keep him†she admitted glancing over at the cot “he developed and was born like the others with the identity of his parents obscured.†She said she didn't want the scientists knowing that she and Burton were the parents “I asked for this child to stay with me for a short period so I could study life with a child†she explained gaining another confused glance from Burton. “The Raven Khan wishes to understand what the Outworlds Alliance people enjoy so much about bringing up a child. In time he will join the others in a creche and continue his life never knowing who he is.â€
“Why even tell me this if you have his life planned already?â€
“Because plans do not always work out†Sterling admitted “I have always wanted to be a warrior and a leader†she explained. “However, times change, I now have a child†she said “I have a child†she repeated her voice now sounding more shaky “and I want to keep him.â€
“The other warriors must have looked after their children?†He asked
“Neg, the children born the way I describe were brought up in creches with other children.†She said “Luther will join them sooner or later.†She admitted “but now that I have him, I want to keep him†she said “I want him to grow up and know me and to know you.†She said looking at him her eyes pleading searching for a sign that Burton felt the same way. The Prince glanced at the child then moved slightly closer to the Khan.
“How if you were to reveal that you had a child with me then the Ravens would have something to use over the Federated Suns. If I stayed the same would happen only I would be used against my home. If you were walk out on your Clan there would be an uproar within the Ravens Quiaff?†he asked she nodded it was a difficult position they were in. This visit was officially being dressed as a diplomatic mission if there was a rumour that the First Prince's son had defected to the Raven Alliance it would probably cause another war and if she just left with him the Ravens would hunt them down.
“I don't know†she said a tear ran down her cheek “why did I ever have to meet you?†She asked looking at her.
“I don't know†he echoed her wrapping his arm around her shoulders “I can stay for a while, the difficult Raven Khan is arguing her case†he said smirking.
“We clanners can be difficult†she admitted leaning her head against his shoulder Burton sat there silently he'd known Sterling McKenna on and off for more than ten years, it wasn't as if this was new to him, and he cared for her and for the baby boy he had just met. But how the hell he was going to make this work he had no idea.
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Burton is just like his father Victor. Traveling the galaxy and knocking up the next available female that is in a leadership position! ;D 8)
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Burton is just like his father Victor. Traveling the galaxy and knocking up the next available female that is in a leadership position! ;D 8)
It's a tough job but someone has to do it ;) 8)
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3095 has flown by!! Into December ending the year with a bang!
Irian Shipyards of Clipperton
Clipperton, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
4th December 3095
Several explosions ripped through warehouse sections of the Irian Shipyards of Clipperton as they did several DropShips were forcefully ejected from the facilities while many others were ordered to detach before secondary explosions caused damage to them. While emergency teams moved in on the facility from the planet and from the Wolf's Dragoons WarShip Athena while the evacuating DropShips moved to a safe distance allowing access. In the confusion four Behemoths which had been used as extra storage for the shipyards, holding Naval Autocannons, Naval Lasers and WarShip Grade armour, changed course heading towards a pirate point. Before anyone in the system could react the DropShips were out of weapons range meeting up with a recently arrived Star Lord-class JumpShip; they rapidly docked with the JumpShip and the vessel left the system. Who had caused the explosions or stolen the equipment is currently unknown lacking enough intelligence and investigative staff to look into it themselves the Bowang Free Trade Sphere officially hire a WolfNet team from the Wolf's Dragoons to assist.
SLDF Assault
Sharpe, Hidden World
Capellan Confederation
12th December 3095
Multiple flashes of light occurred at the Zenith and Nadir points of the Sharpe system as eight WarShips, three Drones and several JumpShips entered the system. Fleet Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald stood on the bridge of the SLS Shining Claw, the Congress Block II-class Frigate, commanding the fleet. “Get our people off the drones and have them set loose†he ordered seeing the WarShip's sensors light up as the Shining Claw detected the space station in the system; exactly where Interstellar Expeditions had reported it.
“The crews are setting up the systems they report they will need at least thirty minutes to fully prep the ship's AI systems.â€
“Sir, we've been hailed by an SLDF Communication Buoy stating this system is under SLDF Quarantine†communications reported gaining some confused looks, there was no record of a quarantine in this system.
“We have nearly two dozen DropShip sized signatures and nearly two hundred aerospace fighters launching from the space station.†Another officer at sensors reported immediately taking everyone's attention “we are being targeted by Capital Missiles!†He called out as alerts sounded as the holo-tank was filled with multiple smaller signatures representing DropShips and aerospace fighters and then multiple red dots representing missiles.
“Activate all point defences. Stand-off weapons†Fitzgerald reported “target the space station with capital missiles and particle cannons. Launch all aerospace fighters and DropShips. I want a kill zone on both jump points none of their units get close enough to cause us serious grief if it means the station gets less attention, that's fine for now. Have the Surprise target the station with her main weapon and fire at will†he ordered. This was the Surprise's first deployment since its refit at the Titan Shipyards. “At least they don't have any Caspers†he whispered looking at the screens it looked like there was only the space station, based just off the Jump points, and the DropShips and fighters assigned to it.
Time ticked by as swarms of DropShips and aerospace fighters attempted to approach the SLDF naval vessels but their barrage of weapons fire had kept them back. The SLDF WarShips sensors had confirmed that the Space Station they were facing was an M9 Pavise SDS Space Station. With the preparation crews abandoning the now active Drones Fitzgerald sent the message to their command AI systems all three Caspers accelerated away from the jump points.
“Nadir Group will approach the dorsal side of the M9 full broadsides into the station's hull. Zenith Group will cross the ventral surface we will split their fire and attention. The M5s will launch direct slashing attacks on the station directly the more attention they take the less people we lose.â€
“They won't last long against that station†Andrew Brown the commander of the Shining Claw said.
“They don't need to last long just distract them so we can close†Fitzgerald said watching as the three drones accelerated at three g's acceleration straight at the space station. The weapons fire from the M9 rapidly changed from the SLDF WarShips onto the three Drones initially the weapons fire was inaccurate due to the SLDF Drones speed but rapidly the weapons fire was becoming more accurate cutting into the three ships.
“SCD-1 has sustained two direct hits from naval gauss fire to its forward section†someone called out “a third and fourth strike.†They reported the Drones were taking a pounding as they approached but they were also causing heavy damage to the space station, as were the approaching SLDF WarShips, “SLS Surprise has scored a direct hit on the space station mid way along the hull, we have power fluctuations in that area.â€
“Have them concentrate on that area, naval missiles to target that section as well, adjust our course to bring us over that section of the station.†Fitzgerald ordered watching as less weapons seemed to be coming from one section of the station if they could get into that area of the station's weapons then the SLDF vessels could suffer less damage.
The Drones were ahead of the SLDF WarShips and constantly switching positions SCD-1 had slipped to the back of the formation and rotated it was now traveling in reverse compared to the other two ships. The three ships were continuing to take heavy damage from the space station and now from their DropShips and aerospace fighters. Now moving into near point blank range with the space station they pumped salvo after salvo into their target.
“What are they doing?†Fitzgerald whispered more to himself watching as the two fully operational drones both rolled over the nose of the crippled drone soaking up fire intended for the damaged drone. “Oh no†he said realizing what they were doing “pull everyone back, all forces execute escape vector Gamma!†He shouted stepping forward “all ships are to abandon their attack runs fight defensively!†He commanded he was stepping on Andrew Brown's shoes but he'd seen something.
The two front Drones peeled away from the third vessel opening up with full broadside attacks on the Pavise while the third vessel continued straight on into the one and a half million ton space station slamming into the massive station. Suddenly the two other Drones rolled over and under the station firing continuously into the station. “They are leaving themselves exposed†Brown said as SCD-1, embedded in the station, exploded into a massive fireball crippling the station's defences. Both of the other drones sustained multiple hits from the DropShips and aerospace fighters while the space station's far side guns tore into the two remaining Drones.
“They've given us the opening†Fitzgerald said ignoring the deaths of the remaining two Casper Drones “all ships rendezvous at these coordinates†he said punching in the numbers transmitting them “target the section SCD-1 struck, kill that station.†He ordered the SLDF forces were still taking fire from the M9 but it was much reduced since drones sacrifice.
“Invincible's been hit!†Someone called out on the bridge Commodore Andrew Brown manipulated the holo-tank's controls zooming in on the battle-cruiser. The enhanced imagery fed directly from the Shining Claw's sensors showed the aft hull had been heavily pitted by several direct hits from naval gauss rifle fire.
“Their engines are gone she's drifting into space.†Brown commented on “she's ballistic away from the fighting.†He said seeing the Invincible was still able to fire which at least allowed it to defend itself.
“Track her†Fitzgerald ordered, “we'll send recovery teams to her when this is all over.†He said seeing it could defend itself he just hoped that the Battle-cruiser's life support systems had not been compromised. The remaining seven SLDF WarShips launched attack after attack on the crippled section of the space station cutting through the ship's structure and hull because massive sections of the station were damaged it was unable to properly defend itself. The Pavise sustained more and more damage its sections slowly went dead one after another until finally the station went completely dark its power grid completely failing the drones that had been controlled by the station suddenly lacked commands. Instead of shutting down they began to attempt suicide runs on the SLDF WarShips a couple got through causing glancing blows on the WarShips but nothing critical. With the space station and its drones disabled six of the remaining SLDF WarShips continued on towards the planet while the SLS Truce of Tukayyid moved to assist the disabled SLS Invincible. Most of the WarShips would need extensive repair work once the operation was complete in this system but for now they would serve very well in convincing the planet that force was not what they wanted to use.
Four days later the SLDF WarShips and nearly two dozen SLDF DropShips arrived in orbit over the planet to receive a welcome from the planet. “This is Governor John Michael O'Donnell to the Star League Defences Forces welcome back to Sharpe. I hope your training exercises went well, our ground forces are ready for your selection and inspection.†The voice said SLDF officers exchanged glances across the Shining Claw's Command Deck.
“Send word to the Commanding-General of our welcome†Admiral Fitzgerald said “hold all ground forces in orbit.†He said “I will head to the planet with the First Marines.†He said naming the embarked Battle Armour force on the SLS Shining Claw.
“Sir they could hold you against us.â€
“And when the Commanding-General arrives I become just another officer.†He said looking at Brown “I'm also curious about what's going on down there†he said smirking Fitzgerald had won the battle now he wanted to reap the rewards.
Nearly an hour later one of the Shining Claw's two Taihou Assault DropShips descended through the atmosphere landing at an airfield on the outskirts of a very modern capital city. As the DropShip taxied towards a hanger Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald could see lines of infantry troopers, lines of Nighthawk Power Armour suits and lightly armoured vehicles all painted in the colours of the SLDF. “Blake's Blood!†He whispered out of shock the two younger officers piloting the ship looked at him in surprise. “Guess it's time to meet the locals.†He said heading back through the ship a squad of Battle Armour suited marines stood ready he nodded to them as he approached straightening his uniform jacket as they opened the doors.
The Battle Armour squad led the way quickly followed by by Fitzgerald and then a second battle armour squad two of troopers followed him as he approached the governor a large jovial looking man in his early fifties Fitzgerald guessed with a well trimmed mustache that was beginning to show signs of grey. “Welcome, welcome, welcome†he said smiling broadly “I am Jack O'Donnell Governor of Sharpe†he said introducing himself he clearly descended from Irish blood with his name and accent. “Admiral, it has been more than a year since the SLDF were last here, we were beginning to think you had forgotten us? The Capellans have also avoided this system, it's like we have dropped off the star maps.†He said laughing lightly
“I am Fleet Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald" he said introducing himself "it's been many months?†Anthony asked trying not to sound too confused to his knowledge neither the SLDF or Capellan Confederation had been to this system for centuries.
“Yes, well obviously, the SLDF's station has defended us from all threats but we have not had any visitors on the ground for quite some time. Major-General Dietz was worried he would go through an entire generation of soldiers before your returned for a selection.†He said turning leading Fitzgerald towards the arrayed forces.
“Of courseâ€
“Interesting new technology you have arrived with Admiral.†He asked glancing at the two imposing Battle Armour suits “you will have to share this with us, a new DropShip as well we could incorporate much of it into our training regime here with your permission of course.†He commented “is there a Training Precentor with you?â€
“Training Precentor...†Fitzgerald began startled by the term “not on this occasion Governor†he said leaning in “if I can be honest with you, this is more an informal visit than a selection, consider this visit more of a re-connection after our separation.†Fitzgerald said walking forward with the Governor.
“Of course, please allow me to introduce you to Major-General Keifer Dietz commander of the Ninety-fifth Sharps Rifles Division, Major-General this is Admiral Fitzgerald Star League Navy.â€
“Sir†Dietz said saluting “the Ninety-fifth stand ready.â€
“The Ninety-fifth Division?†Fitzgerald replied
“Yes sir as per previous instructions we have increased the size of our standing forces to four infantry regiments, one armour regiment and one power armour regiment.â€
“Six regiments†Fitzgerald replied impressed “no Mechs or aerospace forces?â€
“No sir as per previous briefings Mech and aerospace production and training remain elsewhere although we do have areas marked out should the SLDF choose to expand their production facilities.â€
“Of course†Fitzgerald said whoever had been pretending to be the SLDF had built a massive conventional force not mention an entire regiment of Nighthawks the money involved in hiding this system, building the M9 and now all these ground forces was astronomical. He didn't know how he would explain to them that they'd been lied to over all these years or how he was going to explain to them that the Commanding-General was on his way here. This world was in for a shock as was the Inner Sphere when they discovered what was going on here.
Diplomatic Tour
Lum Habitat, Snow Raven Floating Enclave
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
19th December 3095
In an effort to explain for and cover Prince Burton Davion's presence in the Raven Alliance Khan Sterling McKenna had announced that the Prince was on a diplomatic mission from the Federated Suns to ensure the Snow Ravens were not mistreating the native population. The Federated Suns had always held a good relationship with the Outworlds Alliance so it was a good cover while it would just give the Ravens another reason to be hostile towards him that worked in Sterling's favour as well the ancient proverb “keep your friends close, and your enemies closer†she could explain her close proximity to him as her effort to keep an eye on the Prince.
As part of the tour Burton had been given a rare privilege and invite on board one of the Snow Raven's Floating Enclaves. Built in the early years of the Raven Alliance when the native population and the Clan-born civilian castes were not getting on eighteen Floating enclaves had been built on Alpheratz with many more built on Quatre Belle, Dante and Antallos these the Snow Raven civilian and scientific castes were based keeping them safe from prying eyes.
As Burton's VTOL had approached the massive facility he had seen how impressive it was with a central core which was approximately ninety metres across by ninety metres deep with at least nine visible decks. Coming off this facility at different angles were four “wings†each over one hundred metres long by at least sixty metres across. Put together it had looked almost like a flying star suspended under a massive air balloon which extended into the upper atmosphere an extremely impressive achievement.
The tour had gone very well as the Khan and her guest had moved without a single problem through the facility it was until they had returned to the hanger deck where everything had almost gone horribly wrong. Through either negligence from one of the techs or an intentional attempt at assassination a fuel tank had ruptured beside a maintenance crew the resulting fire had engulfed some missile ammunition causing a minor explosion in the bay wrecking a VTOL in the process. As shrapnel had flown across the deck only Burton Davion's quick actions had saved Sterling McKenna's life as he pushed her out of the path of the flying metal. Unfortunately Burton had not been so luck several pieces had slammed into the prince's right leg smashing the bones and arteries there. Medical Technicians had arrived promptly and saved the Prince's life but even now he was in the Lum Habitat's medical facility unconscious fighting for his life.
“What is your prognosis?†Sterling McKenna demanded she had some minor cuts to her forehead and shoulder.
“His leg needs to be amputated if not the damage done could cause further complications we cannot be certain that we all the breaks in his arteries have been completely repaired†the doctor said briefing the Khan “should we try to nurse him to health we may open these wounds again while setting the bones. Fortunately he is in prime health he would be a primary candidate an artificial limb.â€
“He is not one of us†saKhan Thorsten Magnus said angrily “it was an accident. We stabilize his condition and we send him home.â€
“Was it an accident?†Sterling McKenna questioned how a Snow Raven maintenance crew could have been that negligent was beyond her an intentional attempt to cause problems was far more likely.
“You cannot be serious, Quineg?†Magnus demanded “this was an accident, we owe him nothing more than saving his life!â€
“Remove the leg and bud his wound.†Sterling ordered making up her mind she would not see Burton maimed for the rest of his life by an accident or by anything else. “Have our scientist grow him another leg.â€
“HE IS NOT ONE OF US!†Magnus shouted angrily grabbing Sterling by her injured shoulder the pain was excruciating but it was also a very good motivator. Grabbing Magnus by the collar with her other arm Sterling rapidly pivoted pulling Magnus along with her the MechWarrior's bulk did the rest as he tripped over her out stretched leg and flew across the room slamming into a nearby wall.
“Remember who you speak to†Sterling reminded her saKhan walking over towards him as he pulled himself back onto his feet. “Should you wish to speak to me like that again declare your Circle or prepare for one to follow.†She threatened in recent months he had become quite tiresome, she was beginning to understand why ground-pounders rarely raised to this level in the Raven Clan, how other Clans put up with people like this she didn't know.
“We should not waste resources on someone who is not even from our Clan†Magnus said his tone and voice more in control this time although she could tell he was angry with her “we do not even have his DNA on record to grow him another limb.â€
“There was plenty of it on the deck after he saved me†Sterling shot back she didn't bother mentioning that Burton was currently in a medical facility and could not stop them taking his blood. “Do what needs to be done Doctor but I expect my wishes to be adhered to, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, my Khan, your wishes will be done I will have his records sent to the iron wombs for the growing of another limb.†He promised her “we will transfer him to a ground facility for the rest of his care.â€
“Very good keep me informed†she ordered “saKhan Magnus I wish to keep the Prince's guards in the dark about what is going on. Detain his bodyguards on the ground†she ordered “I do not want any of them killed, make sure our people are aware of this, Quiaff?†She demanded using the Clan interrogative.
“Aff, my Khan, your wishes will be done†he said mimicking the scientist "what of his WarShip?â€
“Have the Snow Raven close range on it and stop it from attempting to leave the system.â€
“They could jump anyway, at that distance our crew would not stand a chance†Magnus warned her.
“Aff, fine monitor them then†she said rubbing the injured side of her head instantly regretting it “they are not to approach the planet for any reason. If they choose to leave they are to be challenged, but not fire on, in any system they enter. If they choose to leave for the Federated Suns then so be it.†She said personally she highly doubted that the WarShip would just abandon their Prince and heir but she had been wrong in the past; she had picked Thorsten Magnus as her saKhan, she thought.
“If they are allowed to leave, without Burton, then we will face war†Magnus argued back
“Neg, Victor Davion would not risk the life of his first born child for anything, the First Prince would talk first.†Sterling McKenna said after a moment's thought thinking of what she would do if her son was threatened.
“Foolish†Magnus dismissed the idea out of hand.
“Perhaps†she whispered in response glancing at Burton's unconscious form shaking thoughts of helplessness from her mind, she would trust the doctors to do their work and to carry out her wishes, not to something she could control. “How goes the Watch's investigation into the explosion?â€
“The Watch Commander reports that they have begun their interviews which are expected to last into tomorrow and possibly beyond.â€
“Good†she answered if this was an accident she'd make sure that it never happened again at any Snow Raven facility. If it was an attempt against her life or Burton's she would ensure those responsible were counting down to their last breaths.
Emergency Star League Conference
HPG Network
Inner Sphere
29th December 3095
Following the unexpected death of Captain-General Anthony Brett-Marik the leaders of the Star League's nation states choose to hold an Emergency Star League Conference via secure HPG link instead of all traveling to Terra. In place of Anthony Brett-Marik the leader of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, Corrine Marik, is elected in his place defeating the leaders of the Taurian Concordat and Magistracy of Canopus who were both surprisingly nominated for the vote. Initially the new First Lord expects to hold the position for three years, as it is normally, however the Council agree by majority vote that Corrine Marik is completing the term held by Anthony Brett-Marik and so her term will only be for the remaining two years of Anthony's term with the next Whitting Conference due in November 3098. As almost a formality Archer Christifori is once again confirmed as Commanding-General by the House Lords and the peace treaty between the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine is officially announced to all the House Lords.
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For those interested
This is the Snow Raven's floating Enclave
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/snow-raven-floating-enclave/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/snow-raven-floating-enclave/)
End of 3095 Map
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/#lastPost (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/#lastPost)
WarShip list
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/msg38167/#msg38167 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/msg38167/#msg38167)
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Into 3096
3096
AFFS Military Base
St Ives, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
8th January 3096
As Captain Kym Hasek is moving across the First St Ives Lancers training yard a sniper takes a shot at her. The bullet strikes the upper part of her right thigh and travels down her leg shattering the bone and knee cap only the rapid response by Colonel Richard Steiner and her bodyguards stop her losing the leg however the nerve damage makes it unlikely she will ever have the reflexes to pilot a BattleMech again.
Diplomatic Meeting, Nova Cat Watch HQ
Tortuga Prime, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
11th January 3096
Six days ago the Clan Wolf WarShip Stealthy Kill, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, had arrived in orbit over Tortuga Prime. A single Wolf DropShip had landed on the planet the vessel had carried the Wolf saKhan Jennifer Winson from the Occupation Zones for an unscheduled visit with the Nova Cat Khan. The Wolves like everyone else had tried and failed to gain access to the Nova Cat's capitol system of New Barcella instead landing at the Nova Cat's Watch Command base. Most visitors to the Nova Cats entered the Nova Cat's Den via the New Aega system for the Wolves to break this established protocol meant that it was something important.
Canin Rosse had traveled to the planet and now sat across from the Wolf saKhan. She twenty years younger than Canin she had long blonde hair which had been shaved at the sides while a scar ran under her left eye across her face to her left ear. “saKhan Winson, welcome to Tortuga†he said
“An ugly little world you have here†she said distastefully.
“Aff, the very reason we did not choose this as our capitol.†He answered her Tortuga was largely abandoned now with only the Nova Cat Watch and captured mercenaries or pirates who refused to be bondsmen or that the Nova Cats did not want within their Touman. The Watch and Nova Cat engineers used the majority of the world as a live fire test ground to test their newest weapons of war.
“Ah yes, New Barcella, a world you still hide from prying eyes one would almost believe that you had Blood Spirit blood in you Khan Rosse†she said verbally sparing with him almost trying gain a reaction.
“Neg, only Nova Cat†Canin said quietly “what is the reason for your visit Wolfâ€
“We wish to enter into a contract with you†Jennifer Winson said “we wish for one of your WarShip Stars to join us for a period of one year this star would include the Legacy†she said naming the Nova Cat's
“One year for what?â€
“Combat operations, transport and support.†The saKhan explained
“For an entire year?â€
“At least we may request an extension to this†she explained.
“And what would you expect us to accept in exchange for this?â€
“We are willing to offer you production rights for our newest OmniMech a design based on the Lobo BattleMech†she began seeing the Nova Cat Khan was not impressed “we would include a production facility with this trade.†She said expanding the deal beyond what Khan Fetladral had originally planned the Nova Cat Khan still did not look convinced.
“We cannot simply give you an entire star of WarShips†Rosse said emphasizing the size of the force involved “we would need to support them replace lost crew, provide them with a place to rest and refit.â€
“We will provide you with full access to our available facilities.â€
“As will your own forces considering you also wish us to deploy the Legacy I doubt that you will be spending resources on our craft.â€
“What is your desire Nova Cat.â€
“A system within your Occupation Zone, for the duration of the contract, which is close enough to the front-line to make capable of supporting ours and your forces. We shall deploy a defence force for this planet with our WarShips to not tie up your forces.â€
“An entire system†Winson said emphasizing herself this time for the size of the Nova Cat's desires.
“For the duration of the contract†the Nova Cat Khan repeated.
“Our Khan will have to confirm it.â€
“Of course, we will use this time to prepare the force that is being deployed.â€
“Including the Legacy†Jennifer Winson prompted him it was obvious that the yardship was of particular importance to the Wolves.
“Including the Legacy†he confirmed the Nova Cat shipyards could cater to their needs.
Anthony Brett-Marik Memorial Land and Air Works Factory
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey
Former-Free Worlds League
24th January 3096
Behind schedule the Anthony Brett-Marik Memorial Land and Air Works Factory opens for production on Tamarind. The plant dedicated to Anthony Brett-Marik is named by his daughter the new Duchess of Tamarind Chloe Brett-Marik. The LAM Factory would produce the Shadow Hawk LAM, originally built by Gilmour MilTech of Talitha, under license.
Mercenary Warehouse, Mercenary Quarter
Bowang, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
26th January 3096
As part of Bowang's continued development as an open world and a mercenary trade world sections of the planet had been turned over to mercenary commands with massive warehouses built to accommodate any size of BattleMech. The so-called Mercenary Quarter had been expanded over the years to allow for nearly two dozen battalion sized commands.
Standing near the front of the hanger the unit's commander Foxx Ital looked at the assembled warriors. Foxx himself was originally from the Federated Suns, formerly a member of Jerome Sandoval's Robinson Strikers Regiment, but his warriors came from all walks of life. Many of them were former Clansmen all four of the unit's aerospace fighter pilots hailed from Clan Snow Raven and Clan Sea Fox, while several of the MechWarriors hailed from Clans Nova Cat, Ghost Bear and Jade Falcon. The rest were natives of the Free Worlds League, Lyran Commonwealth and Federated Suns Foxx Ital had specifically not chosen seasoned mercenary warriors for the command instead warriors who had formal training as Mech, vehicle or aerospace crews. For their first contract the new unit Foxx's Hellraisers accept a garrison contract with the Bowang Free Trade Sphere and are assigned to the world of Wolot.
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time for an update my thanks to the authors of XTRO Most Wanted you've given me some awesome ideas for the future. >:D
Downtown Zanzibar
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey
Former-Free Worlds League
10th February 3096
The Bounty Hunter, Aoife O'Kyan, had been given an invitation to Tamarind by an unknown source. She'd been told to take her BattleMech with her into the downtown area of the planet's capital at a certain time and to tune her comms systems frequency into that of the local militia. She'd found that Tamarind's BattleMech laws were quite lax and with a lick of paint her Marauder looked like any other mercenary Mech. She'd waited in the same spot for nearly two hours and was about to call quits when a call came over.
“All commands Apache Wing aircraft a modified Hawk Moth VTOL, codenamed Verwandlung, has just launched an unprovoked attack on Colonel Newblood†the message came through “the Colonel is dead... the rest Apache Wing are under house arrest. Hawk Moth is to be considered at large and dangerous hunt down and destroy.†The voice said moments later the modified VTOl flew over the Bounty Hunter's position opening fire on a Tamarind Militia vehicle with its rotary autocannon peppering the vehicle with hits.
“A good enough introduction?†Suddenly the Bounty Hunter was asked over the same frequency.
“Introduction!! You murderous bastard prepare to die!†Another voice called as a pair of Aeron Strike VTOLs flew into view firing their lasers at the Hawk Moth both shots went wide.
“What are your terms?†Aoife O'Kyan replied ignoring the new aircraft for a moment watching as the first VTOL jinked and avoided weapons fire.
“Equal share of operations I participate in, which will not be all operations that you have an interest in, and transport†the pilot replied as the Hawk Moth pulled up into a loop-the-loop drawing down behind the Aeron's moment's later the Hawk Moth's rotary autocannon barked back to life tearing through one of the craft. Aoife smiled inside her BattleMech's cockpit watching the other craft attempt to turn away straight into her crosshairs.
“Agreed†she said not caring who heard her as she fired a single gauss rifle shot through the air from the Marauder's torso. The hypersonic slug flew rapidly into its target tearing the rear stabilizing fin from the aircraft's body sending it into an unrecoverable spin. As the craft spun to the ground striking a group of houses the Bounty Hunter began to move having no intention on getting caught in this introduction. “Docking bay ninety-four “R†the Overlord-class vessel land within the aerospace fighter bay. Brigand†the Bounty Hunter said her ship was in fact in bay 49 but if the pilot knew what was there then they may gain the “R†reference which Aoife had meant as “reverse.â€
“I understand†the pilot said changing course obviously planning on leading the militia on a merry chase before joining them.
Avoiding the patrols the Bounty Hunter herself slipped into the Mule-class Transport DropShip and waited for nearly three hours before sign of her new recruit. Surprisingly instead of arriving at the DropShip's cargo deck was a single Galaport Ground Tug pulling with it a cargo trailer using the cargo name of “Brigand†the Bounty Hunter's code. This assassin was not stupid at least Aoife noted as she approached the vehicle. Once the outer door of the DropShip had closed the side of the trailer opened to reveal the Hawk Moth VTOL folded inside the trailer along with tons of spare parts and two support crewmen, the tug itself had a crew of three more including the pilot made six she thought. “More than I expected†she said as the pilot stepped down she was a young woman, perhaps even younger than the Bounty Hunter herself, she had long red hair tied back into a pony-tail “Kafka†Aoife said quietly “not what I expected.â€
“Speak for yourself, Bounty Hunterâ€
“Tradition is a grand thing†the Bounty Hunter replied smiling.
“Yes it is†the pilot agreed
“They are all with you?†She asked looking at the crew who looked at Aoife outside her armour and were just as surprised as the pilot.
“Yes, a problem?â€
“Not if you keep them in line†Aoife said “if they are a problem you will deal with it. You will pay them from the cut you receive. Agreed?†She asked the pilot didn't look completely happy but she didn't have much of a choice the Bounty Hunter had not sat on her laurels since gaining the position she now had six other MechWarriors supporting her as well as a very competent support crew.
“Yesâ€
“Good you will be shown the areas that you are allowed in. There are areas that for now you will not be given access to. We need to gain each others trust first, you understand?â€
“Yes I do†Kafka said “do we now learn your name? Or does that come with trust also?†She teased.
“You know my name, it's Bounty Hunter†she said turning walking away Kafka's people were now hers but they would be trusted so far and not any further for now they were an unknown element to this new world for Aoife O'Kyan. After reading the previous Bounty Hunter's notes she knew some of the pitfalls to avoid, hiring an assassin was perhaps not her best move but it should make things interesting and now that they had seen her face without its armour they would leave only when she allowed them or in a body-bag.
Several hours passed and the militia search for Kafka and the “unknown†BattleMech that had assisted them had ended. Their DropShip had been checked by launch control however no-one bothered to visit the Mule-class Cargo ship as everyone knew that the ships were not designed to carry combat elements. Aoife had heard that the Apache Air Wing, who Kafka had betrayed, had been released from house arrest and allowed to continue with their contract after being cleared of any involvement in the militia commander's assassination. Two days later DropShips at the spaceport, including the Bounty Hunter's, were allowed to resume normal operations and leave the planet to their next target.
Command Bridge, Chancellor's Destiny (Du Shi Wang-class Battleship UPGRADE)
Shennong, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
13th February 3096
Dragging himself through the hull of the massive WarShip Kong-jiang-jun Chang Uong entered the command bridge of the Chancellor's Destiny. “Attention!†He called out gaining their attention “for years this ship has remained hidden as our Capitol's last line of defence. Today we finally have our unveiling†he said, he'd left out that since the First Succession War the Chancellor's Destiny hadn't been able to navigate or move on its own. Only recently with the return of WarShip production facilities had the Capellan's been able to repair and upgrade the Du Shi Wang to modern standards. Instead of trying to move the vessel to the shipyards of Necromo to repair the ship the Capellans had spent nearly thirty years upgrading the facilities carved into the moon of Shennong before they had even began work on repairing the Battleship. Now once the vessel was clear of the moon the facilities here could repair any of their WarShips and possibly even build new ships.
“Now we have been tasked with protecting our homeworld from five heavily armed DropShips which we believe have come from the renegade St Ives worlds they have avoided the Wudang Jian. We will stop them from getting anywhere near Sian and destroy their ground forces in space. Prime all engines and take us out of this bay.â€
Nearly two hours later the Chancellor's Destiny, the last Capellan Confederation Du Shi Wang-class Battleship, fired its thrusters and slowly slipped clear of Sian's smallest moon. The ship tore through the camouflage tarps which had hidden it and the facility below for so many years only a dedicated scan of the moon would have spotted the WarShip something the Capellans had long forbidden. The attacking DropShips were within a couple of hours of Sian which had been defenseless to their approach now however they had a nine hundred thousand ton WarShip in their path. “Particle cannons and lasers only people we don't need to reveal too much about her.†Uong said quietly the Chancellor's Destiny's original weapons had been repaired fully however the new weapons systems that had been added to the craft still needed live firing testing which would take a little longer.
As the DropShips charged in the forward battery on the Chancellor's Destiny came to life with the forward particle cannon array opening up on the first DropShip, an Overlord-class troop ship, the craft took a Naval Particle cannon shot to the front of the ship which set the craft out of control a second tore through the middle of the ship as it spun splitting the ship in half.
The remaining DropShips scattered however they had no chance. Kong-jiang-jun Chang Uong watched as his relatively inexperienced crew slaughtered the remaining four DropShips with capital weapons fire. Several aerospace fighters attempted to launch from the vessels to engage the Chancellor's Destiny however the Battleship's crew quickly and efficiently switched their naval lasers to anti-fighter fire. The lasers blanketed the area in laser fire tearing multiple aerospace craft to pieces in rapid succession.
Announcement
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th February 3096
The leader of the Federated Suns First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion stood on a podium with two other officers both of whom had recently served in the fighting against the Draconis Combine. “Ladies and Gentlemen, Marshal of Armies Galen Cox has served the Federated Commonwealth and Federated Suns since 3042. He has defended the Inner Sphere and the Federated Suns from many many threats and he returned to us from retirement following the death of his and my friend Reinhart Steiner.†Victor announced “Galen step forward please†he said Galen immediately did “today on your second retirement I announce your membership into the Order of Davion†he said presenting the man with a blood-red shield with a black fox crouched on it. “You were not born to any of the worlds we hold but you have served us well.†Victor said Galen was originally from the Lyran Commonwealth's side of the now defunct Federated Commonwealth. He like many others had felt a personal loyalty to the First Prince and joined the AFFS following the dissolving of the AFFC with the removal of Katherine Steiner-Davion, a woman that Galen had once been engaged to, he had been allowed to return to the Lyran Commonwealth to see his family but each time he had returned firmly stating that New Avalon was his new home.
“Thank you, sire†Galen said saluting crisply Victor returned the salute and the man stepped back Galen may be stepping down as Marshal of Armies but Victor knew that he would be going nowhere.
“In his place a hero of the recent conflict with the Draconis Combine and the commander of the Crucis Lancers Brigade Sora Higginson†Victor said turning back to the crowd “Field Marshal please step forward†he said the young woman did as she was asked. Many would question just how Sora Higginson had gotten to where she was while being so young but Victor had seen her record and spoken to people who had commanded her and who she had commanded in twenty years of service with the AFFS she had not stepped a foot wrong she had fought against House Liao and Kurita and won against both she knew how to use her troops and which fights she could and could not win. “You are now Marshal of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns your duty is to everyone who serves the Federated Suns and everyone who resides on our worlds. Do you understand and accept these duties?â€
“I do sire†she answer looking him in the eye Victor suppressed a smile he was glad to see she was willing to look right at him.
“Then your first duty is upon you†Victor said stepping aside allowing Sora to take the podium.
“People of the Federated Suns we have been harmed in our recent conflicts, many of our people have been lost in a war that we did not ask for. However we now have a chance to rebuild.†She said speaking calmly “pending approval from the High Command today I announce that the Third Davion Guards RCT will return to active duty within the AFFS†she said immediately gaining a cheer from the crowd both Victor and Galen exchanged a glance and a small smile but Sora continued. “The Third Davion Guards RCT were deactivated as an AFFS unit following the Clan War, the end to their time in the shadows has been long overdue, the Tenth Deneb Cavalry which was destroyed in the recent fighting will be rebuilt to its former strength.†She said gaining another cheer “while the First Robinson Strikers will be reformed as an LCT and placed on the rolls as an independent formation under the direct direction of New Avalon.†She said gaining some applause most people knew the unit's history and Jerome Sandoval's attempt at seizing power on Robinson. “Now is a time to forget our mistakes, to remember our loses and rebuild from our defeats†she said “for tomorrow, tomorrow is a new day.†She promised them stepping aside as Victor retook the podium the crowd cheered and applauded again instead of interrupting them Victor Steiner-Davion turned to his new Marshal of Armies and joined the crowd gaining an even stronger cheer. A new dawn for the Federated Suns had begun, a new generation of leadership Victor thought now he just needed his son to return to them to continue to shape the future of their nation. For the last two months there had been little to nothing from Burton Davion or his people who were still within the Raven Alliance. Victor was worried, another war, even a war to save his son was not what his nation needed.
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Next bit, answering the Sterling McKenna question. Having the heir to the Federated Suns staying in the Raven Alliance or the two formally being linked just couldn't happen too munch for my taste.
My thanks to James Tanaga for the continued tales from Clan Fire Mandrill and the Rim Collection.
Border Raid
Lungdo, Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
4th March 3096
In a raid against Lungdo the Principality of Regulus debut their new Ogre Battle Armour suit alongside the Blades Legion Mercenary Command. The Ogre suits with their Heavy Battle Claws and Short Range Missile systems made quick work of multiple militia armoured vehicles. The Blades Legion Mercenaries used to fighting against Periphery opponents takes heavy damage against the Oriente defenders with several of the medium and light machines that formed the command's Second and Third Century's lost in combat.
Following the Blades Legion's return to the Principality of Regulus the Principality offers the mercenaries several squads of Longinus Battle Armour which Colonel Ian Redwolf gladly accepts. With the Blades Legions large infantry support the Battle Armour suits are quickly filled by the most experienced troopers while new infantry soldiers are hired to fill the infantry ranks.
RCJS Cassandra’s Folly
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
7th March 3096
Jerry Able leaned against his cane as he looked out the observation window on the JumpShip that the Mandrills used as a Space Station at the slowly encroaching Davion WarShips and DropShips, under escort by the RCS Mandrill Provider. Behind him, his daughter Karen and Khan Aemelia Showers sparred against one another in a war of words.
“For the last time, Khan! The Federated Suns forces are coming here to fight the Stone Spirits! Not these Serpents you and the Mandrills seem to be so scared of,†his daughter answered the Mandrill Khan, obviously irritated.
“We are not scared!†She snapped back “if you knew the Serpents as I do, you would bes as concerned as we are!†Khan Showers yelled at her. “And we are yet to know their full strength,†she rebutted to Karen after pausing for a moment to keep calm.
As he tuned the two out, he spoke quietly to his companion, the wheel-chair bound Lysa Djerassi, who herself was looking out into space alongside him. “Is this your Khan speaking or your entire clan, Adjutant?â€
“My clan is behaving like hurt little munchkins at the moment,†the wheel-chair bound clan woman confessed to him. “Truthfully, we are all scared this could be another attempt to destroy our clan.†She said in a low voice “if it is, even our full military might not be enough to protect the Collection. For that reason my clan is worried we may have to flee once again, after only just feeling as if the Collection is our home, especially due to the Steelsoul Khanate preparing to evacuate their trade enclaves on All Dawn.â€
Jerry felt for her. The Mandrills arrival in the Collection was touch and go for a while, at least until he had figured out they only wanted a home for themselves and needed an outlet to vent themselves on. The Six Week War with the Lyrans and ongoing operations against the Stone Spirits had given the Mandrills that much-needed outlet while also helping the Collection not only to protect itself, but also to expend. Yet, the Collection was now very much at risk, for the Mandrills now were panicking and because they were, so were other members of the Collection, specifically those closest to where the Serpents came from, specifically Waypoint, and Able’s Glory.
“How strong were the Serpents when they evicted your clan from the Homeworlds?†he asked her. Though he did not know the entire story of their eviction, he did know the Serpents were at least a part of it.
“At the time we were in the Homeworlds they were still three individual clans; the Cloud Cobras, Star Adders, and Steel Vipers. Once combined the three clans had probably as much firepower and personnel at their disposal than any of the other Invading Clans,†the clan woman reported to him.
Jerry barely kept himself from doing a double-take, for the Mandrills themselves only held a fraction of the firepower of a Clan like Clan Wolf or Jade Falcon, and they were the Collection’s strongest military power by far. Still, the Serpents aggression seemed not to be an invasion, merely raids, and small ones at that. Coupled with the lone Serpent warrior captured at Waypoint, it seemed the Serpents were no longer at that mighty strength after the failed invasion of the Inner Sphere. “Could these raids be a scouting force, quiaff,†Jerry asked her a moment later, all the while still tuning out the background argument between his daughter and the Mandrill Khan.
“Neg,†Lysa replied back. “They hold no pattern. Nor do they stay long enough to properly see our full martial strength or even our potential. Together with what the bondsman reported, we are looking at saKhan Dante Truscott and his followers, mostly his Bloodhouse from the Star Adders and some select Cloud Cobra warriors who still look to him to lead they are still a potent threat Jerry Able,†she warned him.
“Then why the worry, adjutant?†he asked her, perplexed.
“We took heavy losses against the Lyrans. Our older sibkos and nearly all our reserve forces were all destroyed in holding onto our depository. Only now have new trueborn warriors begun to reenter our ranks and solahma long past their prime are being phased out to help train our future.†The clan woman paused and Able well knew why, for he visited the battlefield weeks afterward. The remembrance wall just outside the depository held all the names that died in the Six Week War. Nearly all of names belonged to the active warriors of the Clan, the elderly garrison troops, and members of the police sub-caste, as well as nearly all the active warriors that defended All Dawn from the Lyrans. Their sacrifice cost the Mandrills greatly, yet allowed the Collection as a whole to strengthen themselves, serving to unite the fragile nation, and ultimately quickly ended the war with the Lyrans on their own terms. Now the surviving cadets were beginning to pass their first Trials of Position joining the ranks of their under-strength Touman Able knew that Khan Showers still had worries about her naval forces as none of the experienced crews were getting any younger.
“We rather not risk taking those losses in the future,†the clan woman spoke back up “which is why there is a concern within us.â€
“And with these Serpents much closer to All Dawn than the Spirits, it seems your clan want to use the Davion forces to go snake hunting, quiaff,†Jerry questioned her.
“Aff,†Lysa answered him, causing Jerry to shake his head. Long memory and short fuses was what he had found the Mandrills to be like. Still, it meant so long as the Collection held to its agreement, he had no worries about the Mandrills running off unless they had no other choice. For the moment, they had options, and for that, he was thankful.
A few moments passed as they both watched the Davion task force slowly begin a formation around the Monolith JumpShip, all the while ignoring the two behind them. “Will you be going through with it,†he finally asked the clan woman. Instantly the mild argument behind them stopped, as both Karen and Khan Showers became silent, obviously having heard his question towards the wheel-chair bound woman. He was referring to the woman’s decision to commit seppuku, honorable suicide as it was known among the clans.
“Aff. It is my time,†was her simple response.
“You have helped the Collection greatly, you know. You could help it to become greater still,†he commented to her, looking down on her for the first time in their conversation, hoping to get her to change her mind.
“My clan will remember me, ovkhan, as will the Collection. That is enough for me,†was her reply, using the clan honorary title to show her respect for him. “The first sibkos using my blood-lineage are now passing their first trials to become warriors. I will die knowing my lineage lives on in them.â€
“Well said,†remarked Khan Aemelia Showers, who, with Karen, had joined them.
“Would it not make more sense to continue living and being an asset to your clan in the Collection’s government?†Karen asked.
“Neg,†Khan Showers supplied to Jerry’s daughter as Jerry caught out of the corner of his eye Lysa Djerassi looking down, seemingly in shame. “It is not the Clan way to remain while those who are younger and more able†she said glancing down at the disabled warrior “can serve. Our way celebrates the fullness of life.†Showers said “she will live on immortally in our surviving warriors, what else could a warrior want?â€
“The Collection shall remember you fondly as well Adjutant,†Jerry remarked diplomatically, knowing he could not change the mind of the wheel-chair bound warrior. “You lived with honor and now may die with honor as well.†As he finished, he reached out with his hand to Lysa.
“You have my thanks, President Able,†she answered him as she gave him a warrior’s handshake. As she gave his daughter and Khan Showers warrior handshakes as well, it again reminded Jerry of just how different the clans were to the Inner Sphere. He was just thankful it was the Mandrills and not any other clan that had arrived at the Collection’s doorstep. Perhaps the Ghost Bears, he mended to himself privately.
An hour later, Jerry, his daughter, and Khan Showers made their way to the shuttle bay to meet the Davion commander in charge of the AFFS taskforce, General Andrew Redburn, and his senior officers. All three knew they would not be seeing Lysa Djerassi alive ever again and had said their goodbyes in their own way as they left the observation deck, with Khan Showers leaving being a large amount of a drug, called necrosia, for the Fire Mandrill warrior, who nodded her thanks. Why the Cat did so, he did not know, though her response answered some of it. “She was once a Scorpion. And by their drug, she will go and join her people in death, as she joined us in life, as I will hopefully die at the hands of a Smoke Jaguar when it becomes my time, if I live that long.â€
He of course knew the Fire Mandrills had access to Goliath Scorpions and Smoke Jaguars, thanks in part to their cloning technology and genetics depository, as well as pets they brought with them, and had even formed a zoo to help their transition to the Collection, even encouraging civilians to come and visit the zoo. He did make a note to himself to visit the zoo before he had to return to Gilfillan’s Gold, as they came up to the shuttle bay and awaited the Davion officers to shortly arrive. Perhaps during the visit, he could hopefully convince Karen to look for someone to marry. He was not getting younger after all.
Public Announcement
Sharpe, Star League Protectorate
Capellan Confederation
11th March 3096
The Star League Defence Force announces the survival of the Sharpe system during all the Succession Wars. The Capellan Confederation immediately lodges its claim for the system as it is within their Sian Commonality however the SLDF refuse this claim stating that the world will be added to the Protectorate worlds with a full SLDF garrison on the ground with Naval support. The SLDF use this announcement as an opportunity to try and end the fighting between the Capellan Confederation and Federated Suns an opportunity is missed as low scale fighting continues between the two states on at least seven different worlds.
Nova Cat Expansion
Carcri, Independent Periphery World
28th March 3096
Following the Nova Cat operation against the SLDF Listening Post on Carcri the Clan had maintained discrete links to the planet. In the first three months of 3096 the planet had suffered four raids from different pirate groups who took supplies and people from the planet leaving the remains worse off but still able to survive. Unwilling to allow this to continue the Nova Cat's Forty-sixth Nova Cat Cavaliers and New Worlds Clusters land on the planet. The Forty-sixth an elite formation is for defence while the New Worlds Cluster is to help support and build up the colony's infrastructure finally the Ridgeback, a Drake-class Corvette, is deployed to the planet for additional defence.
Burton Davion's Quarters
Snow Raven Command, Alpheratz
Raven Alliance
31st March 3096
Burton Davion held onto the two handles taking another step forward he felt the pain rush up his leg according to the Snow Raven scientists it would subside in time however he had to use the new limb for that to happen. Instead of stopping he took another step hearing the doors behind him open he tried to take a third step stumbling forward grabbing the bars for support. He turned around to see Sterling McKenna standing there in her duty uniform holding their son in her arms immediately he was taken aback by the mess her face was in the entire left side of her face was swollen and bruised. “Khan McKenna, what the hell happened to you?†He stammered looking at her.
“That would be Galaxy Commander McKenna†she said glancing at the floor.
“Galaxy Commander...†Burton repeated the rank “what happened?â€
“I was challenged by the Clan Council over my “study†of the freeborn child named Luther†she said looking down at their son. “I was defeated in a Circle of Equals and forced to surrender the real reason for his presence with me. The Council stripped me of my position as Khan.†She said stepping forward towards Burton “they are still discussing who will replace me. Burton, you need to leave, I cannot protect you.†She said looking at Luther again “and I need you to take our son.†She said “I cannot protect him either.â€
“Come with me†Burton said leaning on the bars “both of you, come with me.†Burton pleaded with her.
“I am a Clan warrior†she whispered stepping closer to him.
“You can be so much more than that†Burton said “come with me.†He pleaded again.
“The Mountbatton is still in system they are still loyal to me, for now at least, they will ensure your WarShip can clear the system. Please leave quickly its not safe†she said placing Luther down in the small cot beside the chairs.
“Come with me†Burton said more forcefully “be more†he said to her but she left the room without another word.
An hour later Burton's small party were heading to the Prince's DropShip under a heavy guard of Snow Ravens Burton was confined to a wheelchair with his baby son on his lap his leg was nowhere near strong enough to carry him and the child safely. The Clan Council was still meeting over the revelation of what Sterling had done Burton had heard angry words being exchanged between several warriors. At the foot of the ramp Burton saw Sterling McKenna standing wearing a plain grey jumpsuit devoid of insignia.
“Galaxy Commander, the Federated Suns party must leave Alpheratz Quiaff?â€
“Aff†Sterling agreed “Prince Davion, I request asylum in the Federated Suns†she said clearly
“Galaxy Commander, you cannot!†The Snow Raven guard began but Sterling quickly raised her hand to silence him.
“Warrior, I was Khan of the Snow Ravens, I know our ways I will face trial after trial and then death. If I remained I would be a reminder to our Clan of my failures and my betrayal of our way.†She said none of the warriors disagreed with her “this way I can be forgotten and our Clan can move on.†She promised looking at Burton “Prince Davion, my request?â€
“Of course†he said agreeing to her joining them. Less than an hour later they were lifting off the surface of the planet heading towards the FSS Nathan Duvall. The Texas-class Montbatton escorting them through the Raven Alliance to the border with the Federated Suns and Sterling McKenna's new life. In the Raven Alliance the Clan Council officially strip Sterling McKenna of her Bloodname and rank but far away from the Raven Alliance Sterling chooses to retain her Bloodname. Arriving on New Avalon in July 3096 Burton announces that he and Sterling are engaged to be married. News sources make as much a note that Burton is walking assisted with a crutch than he has become engaged to a former-Clansmen or that the two have a son meaning Clan blood will be mixed into the future leadership of the Federated Suns.
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DC , do you have the stats for the Nova Cat Drake class corvette yet .
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DC , do you have the stats for the Nova Cat Drake class corvette yet .
They are actually already on the forum originally the class was from Blacknova's Kapteyn Universe.
If you follow this link you'll see it as post 20. You'll also see the Hakaze-class Escort Destroyer which I'm using as a Sea Fox ship and the original Splendid-class Cruiser which was modded a bit to become the Splendid-class in my AU. Also on that thread are the Capellan designs I "borrowed" from the KU.
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/comments-questions-and-input-on-the-kapteyn-universe/get-your-red-hot-warship-art/15/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/comments-questions-and-input-on-the-kapteyn-universe/get-your-red-hot-warship-art/15/)
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April
Buffer Zone
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns border
Star League Protectorate
9th April 3096
With the fighting over former St Ives Compact worlds continuing and escalating on the Federated Suns/Capellan Confederation border the SLDF make their move. Moving WarShips and ground forces in rapidly from Kittery the SLDF smove onto Vestallas and St Loris forcefully breaking up the fighting between the two Succession States. In both systems the SLDF WarShips and ground forces face off against units of the Federated Suns and Capellan Confederation who have been contesting the world.
The SLDF “Peacekeepers†move in rapidly separating the forces challenging them to engage the SLDF in combat while in space SLDF WarShips and Pocket WarShips challenge the respective nation's vessels. In each case the two Succession States refuse to open up a second front against the SLDF and agree to peace talks to be held with the Commanding-General on Kittery neither the Federated Suns or Capellan Confederation forces retreat from the two planets.
Nova Cat Genetic Labs, Nova Cat Repository
New Barcella, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
16th April 3096
On the Nova Cat capitol world deep within the Clan's massive Genetic Repository Clan Nova Cat scientists begin experimenting with creating a new caste; which they name Mystic. The Mystic Caste is planned to bring the visions experienced by the Nova Cats to the fore of their future with these new warriors blessed with greater understanding of visions and more spiritual power within the Nova Cat Clan.
To create this caste the Nova Cats open their vaults of unused blood legacies to create a new “Mystic Bloodline†for warriors born to this line there will be no chance of a Bloodname. Khan Canin Rosse, someone who has experienced many visions, does not like the idea of an exclusive Bloodline for the the Mystic Caste. Although he does not stop the Clan's scientists he decrees that “Any warrior of Clan Nova Cat may join the Mystic Caste. For those who do so they will long be remembered as members of this Clan who put everyone's future ahead of their own as they will forever forsake any chance or winning a Bloodname.†Initially the scientists do not like this interference from their Khan however they also realize that any non-bloodnamed member of the warrior caste who joins the caste would add their bloodline to the Mystic Caste increasing its size.
Negotiation
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
27th April 3096
The arrival of Clan Wolf's saKhan to Alpheratz had surprised many including the new Khan Jacob Siegel. The new Raven Khan was a massive man of Elemental stock he'd originally been bred to be a marine onboard one of the Snow Raven's many WarShips he'd move up the ranks steadily to command of the Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser Arc Royal and the Swift Wing Naval Star. The Wolf saKhan had cut to the chase quickly.
“A star of WarShips?†He repeated slowly “that is a lot of vessels for an Occupation Zone of your size. My Watch informs me that you recently visited the Nova Cat's Den did they turn you down?â€
“Neg, the Wolves and Nova Cats came to an agreement.†Jennifer Winson replied “they agreed to contract a star of WarShips to our command.â€
“So the Wolves will have two Stars of additional WarShips?†Seigel said quietly with that amount of firepower the Wolves could likely take out all the WarShips fielded by the other Clans in the Occupation Zone should they wish.
“Aff, we will offer you a Heavy OmniMech production line and a planet to support your WarShips from.â€
“That is quite a prize†he said a planet within the Wolf Occupation Zone would be of use to the Snow Ravens, away from the Raven Alliance, while a heavy OmniMech production line could not hurt. “Just what kind of operations can my WarShip crews expect?â€
“Escort duty, system protection and combat against other WarShips and DropShip units.â€
“Inner Sphere or Clan units?†The Raven Khan asked carefully
“Likely both Khan Seigel†the Wolf answered carefully
“Clan Wolf becoming ambitious Quiaff?â€
“Embracing who we are†she stated smiling there was a glint in the Wolf's eyes that told the Snow Raven leader that the Wolves. “Do your Ravens agree to our terms?†She asked the Raven Khan stayed quiet a moment then slowly nodded his head he knew exactly which Star to send.
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thanks DC , I've mined the KU in the past , and completely missed them .
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I think the SLDF are starting to get to the point where a number of House Lords may look to teach them a lesson.
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I think the SLDF are starting to get to the point where a number of House Lords may look to teach them a lesson.
The Succession States ran rampant for four Succession Wars without an SLDF the SLDF's presence for now is holding them back from that for now.
But you're right they can only be pushed so far...
SLDF Mechbay, The Fort
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
7th May 3096
Looking up at the Penetrator always gave him chills he remembered sneaking into the Mechbay while a child just to look at it. He knew every inch of the Mech every battle it had fought in. “Something else for you to miss?†His father Archer Christfori asked stepping up beside him.
“There are plenty Mechs on Terra†Morgan Christifori told his father “but none quite like her†he said his eyes not leaving his father's Penetrator. “Are you taking her to Kittery?â€
“No, if I need my Mech on Kittery then we have no chance of making peace, I think the Covenant should be enough firepower anyway.†He said Morgan couldn't disagree the Cruiser did have significant firepower but there was something so impersonal by it. Morgan had enrolled in the Star League Defence Force as a MechWarrior trainee he was only seventeen years old but with consent from his parents he was being allowed to enroll; as it turned out he'd be eighteen only six months after the start of his classes.
“Shame she's not getting some time out of the hanger it's been a whileâ€
“There will be a time†Archer said with a small smile “Come on we'll go find your mother then I'll give you a lift to Terra†he said guiding his son away from the silent BattleMech.
Weapons accident
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space Inner Sphere
9th May 3096
During a weapons test an unexpected discharge strikes Chin Cooper the Clan Hell's Horse Loremaster of the Clans. The discharge kills the Elemental and three technicians instantly with three others dying the in the days that followed from acute radiation poisoning. Several days later Klaus Harper of the Snow Ravens becomes the new Loremaster of the Clans beating out Nova Cat Oathmaster Klick Lenardon to take the position.
Harper who has felt that the Snow Ravens culture is being lost in the Raven Alliance had already been en-route to Ramsau the new Snow Raven claim within the Wolf Occupation Zone instead headed for Tukayyid. Harper suggests that should the Clans, in general, become engaged in campaigns against the Inner Sphere that elements of the Ebon Keshik be allowed to keep their combat skills up the other Clans agree to the proposals however they stipulate that the Ebon Keshik cannot gain additional territory for Tukayyid and that they will not engage the Inner Sphere alone which Klaus Harper agrees to.
Waypoint Lagrange Point
Waypoint, Rim Collection,
Periphery
13th May 3096
Light Commodore Matthew Davion, of the Victoria Davions, looked out at the small fleet of WarShips and JumpShips that were readying themselves for Operation: Snakehunter against remnants of the Serpents. The FSS Ferdinand, a Robinson II-class Transport, out there supporting the Mandrill/Rim Collection fleet. The FSS Ferdinand, alongside the FSS Zibler, had escorted the RCS Providence to the Rim Collection, carrying the teams of engineers and technicians under Matthew’s command, the Fox's Teeth, Delta Company and a number of Rabid Fox Battle Armoured troopers.
While the FSS Zibler, a Davion III-class Destroyer, would remain only until the Warsaw, which was now a Federated Suns vessel, could safely limp to the Federated Suns, the Ferdinand, his engineers and technicians, and the ground forces were slated to remain for a bit longer, with the Prince's Champion General Damien Redburn as their commanding officer.
While they were sent here to aid the Rim Collection against the Stone Spirits, instead the they were now going to be used against the Serpent remnants that had raided the Rim Collection the past few months. He found it strange that the Mandrills were worried so much about the Serpents, who possessed a force which was estimated at being roughly three or four Cluster clusters in size, a battered destroyer, and two worlds, rather than the Spirits he and the rest of the AFFS forces supplied to the Collection were supposed to be learning about and assisting the Rim Collection in fighting.
In his reportedly non-combat role Matthew commanded the technical units, were here to help to teach the Collection and its pet Mandrills in how to use the equipment on board the RCS Providence, the Fox-III Refit WarShip which the Federated Suns had traded to the Mandrills for the Warsaw. After seeing the condition of the crippled Whirlwind-class Destroyer Matthew did not know how the Mandrills had kept the Warsaw operational, especially without a yard to stop further degradation was beyond his knowledge, though he held onto the theory the Mandrills had to be insane to still be using it, even just as a training vessel. Now the Whirlwind was a Federated Suns vessel and after a brief spell under repair inside the RCS Providence, where critical damage would be repaired, she and her escort the FSS Zibler would head to the Federated Suns for extensive refit and repair at Galax Shipyards.
While most of his technical units were indeed helping with repairing the Warsaw for its journey back to the Federated Suns, Matthew and a detachment of engineers had been allowed onto the Resolute. The vessel was quite possibly the last operational New Syrtis-class Carrier, originally a Davion vessel hundreds of years ago, she had been taken by the SLDF into Exile and eventually been added to the Clan's reserve WarShip pool. The vessel had been dragooned into the Clan Fire Mandrill Navy during the Clan's retreat from the Clan Homeworlds taking heavy damage in the process.
Matthew and his engineers had agreed to help repair some of the Resolute's systems while at the same time they had jumped at the chance to study the WarShip; a vessel of their nation's history. The Federated Suns had little need for a Carrier, with the FSS Black Prince and FSS Pegasus both capable of carrying significant amounts of aerospace fighters, the vessel was of interest to the engineers. Already Matthew could see a modified version of the design becoming useful addition to the FSN possibly as a Battle-cruiser. A report, he knew, the Collection and Mandrills would ultimately see as well; due in large part to having to use the Collection’s HPG grid to send and receive messages from the Federated Suns. This he didn't consider to be too troublesome as the Collection could benefit from seeing what the Federated Suns could do with the Resolute in the long term. Matthew could even imaging New Avalon being willing to trade an Avalon Block II-class Cruiser or a First Prince Block III-class Battleship for the vessel which again could benefit the Collection.
The sound of a door opening caused him to turn around to welcome the visitor. It was President Able’s daughter, Karen. Seeing her, he blushed, as he remembered how he met her while taking a shower after using the on board gym facilities. She had come into the locker room, along with two other women and a male clan warrior of Elemental-stock. Upon seeing him, she had decided used the shower next to his, chatting him up. He was, as a military officer, used to the no gender segregation of facilities however it was still unnerving to him to have a full grown woman showering right next to him. That it was President Able’s own daughter only made him be more on his guard.
“So this is where you have been hiding, Davion,†she spoke to him her use of his family name annoyed Matthew he was so much more than 'Davion' but few ever saw it. “Enjoying eying the fleet,†she asked with a wink.
“Yes, though it surprises me the Collection and its Fire Mandrill allies are putting so much effort into this operation and not against the Spirits. Surely they are more of a threat,†he answered her, ignoring her subtle innuendo. He was hoping to figure out just how much the Fire Mandrills had sway with the Rim Collection, their firepower he guessed was only part of it, and how she answered his question would answer that.
“The Mandrills are angry, that’s all,†she supplied him with a shrug. He knew that of course. What he wanted to know was why. “The people that make up The Serpents were the ones that ultimately forced them out of the Clan Homeworlds. That and something about dezgra Burrocks and traitorous kindraas,†she informed him a moment later Matthew guessed that even she did not fully understand it.
“So its vengeance? You're involving us in a blood feud in our first Op together?†Matthew asked her a little annoyed himself in some ways he was surprised that Damien Redburn had decided to go along with this.
“That and the Serpents are too close to All Dawn for the Mandrills to feel comfortable with. The Collection too for that matter,†she answered him it made tactical sense to eliminate or neutralize the closer threat first even if it sounded a little too personal for Matthew's tastes.
“From the briefing yesterday, it sounded like the Collection didn’t really care about the small raid on Waypoint last month and more that your government is simply using it as pretext to enlarge your nation,†he easily countered Karen’s latter remark.
“True,†she answered him with a beautiful smirk on her face. “Though we rather only have two enemies on our borders rather than three,†she supplied further with another wink. He didn't like how she classed the Lyrans as an enemy the Succession State was not someone that the Rim Collection would want to aggravate; and someone the AFFS troops would not fight against unless they were attacked first.
Well whatever you want from me that isn’t going to happen, he thought getting back to Karen's flirtations. While the Collection was itself friendly and he wouldn’t mind bedding the admittedly nice on the eyes upstart in front of him, there was no way in hell he would allow himself to be used this blatantly to bring the Federated Suns into alliance with them. At least he won’t be the catalyst, he decided to himself. “Fair enough,†he answered himself. “Don’t you have duties here? I mean, not that I don’t mind all the blatant attention from you. But don’t you, I don’t know, have duties somewhere else?â€
She giggled at him. Oh hell. “Not until fourteen hundred hours when I have to be on the bridge, conveniently with you. That means we have, let me see. Four hours to spend with each other,†the last she said as she swung her arms around his neck, making him look down on her beautiful green eyes.
“I am not going to be used for an alliance between the Collection and the Suns.†There that will shut her up and end her looking at him like a tiger would meat, he thought.
“Whoever said I want to make an alliance with the Federated Suns through you, Davion,†she asked him then kissed him softly on the lips. Bloody hell! After she kissed him, she continued. “You are after all only a member of the Victoria Davions and not a Davion of Avalon; and the Federated Suns is so far away.†She whispered leaning close to him the distance Matthew was from home the total opposite to the feeling he had now.
“Why me?†Matthew finally asked her after she gave him another small kiss.
“My father is after me to have children, as if he didn’t have enough grandchildren from my siblings. And while I don’t want to be married, having a child with someone with the right pedigree is something I would definitely not mind,†she admitted and then gave him another kiss. “You having three children, all with different women, while you yourself are unmarried means you don’t mind casual encounters and prefer to stay unmarried, just as I do. Am I wrong?â€
“So is that all I am? Breeding stock for you,†he asked her astonishingly, he didn’t disapprove of the notion, although he didn't like being used for his name once more.
“For now, yes. In the future? Who can say?†she answered him smiling seductively. “Now are you going to continue to stall my advances towards you? Or are you going to join me?†She asked the last, letting him go.
“Definitely joining,†he replied with a grin.
Hours later, both he and Karen were leaning or holding onto handholds on Resolute’s bridge near each other and the Fire Mandrill Khan, as the WarShip and the fleet made the final jump to Harlez. “The fleet all present and counted for, Star Admiral,†reported a Fire Mandrill technician manning a station to their right. “One warship and three JumpShips sporting known Serpent transponders are orbiting the third planet.â€
“Good. Send word to the FSS Ferdinand to match our speed and hold position. The Mandrill Provider will stay to protect the JumpShips,†ordered Star Admiral Malcolm Lynn the Rook, the Mandrill's Sylvester-class Transport had remained behind defending All Dawn. “Under no conditions are we to allow Truscott and his band of Serpents to escape. Quiaff?â€
“Aff, Khan,†yelled out the female Fire Mandrill technician manning the comm station. “The Ferdinand reports it will comply with our orders, Star Admiral,†she reported a moment later.
“Good. Let us see how the Davions fair in war,†the Star Admiral relied to the entire bridge, answered by a few laughs.
“You will find we Davions know war very well, sir,†Matthew Davion answered to defend the slight of honor the Fire Mandrill warrior had likely unknowingly just given to them. He caught Karen smirking at his answer and figured he indeed had answered the Mandrill correctly.
The clan woman manning the comm station piped up. “Khan, Star Admiral, message from the surface. Khan Truscott of the Serpents is demanding to speak with you khan,†she reported.
“Transfer to this station,†Khan Showers ordered.
“Aff, Khan,†replied the young woman, who just as quickly sent the message to the station nearest to the Fire Mandrill Khan. It allowed Matthew to see how the Mandrills treated their lower castes. So far, the Mandrills surprised him, with Warriors being seen by he and his people many times to be helping their lower castes with their assignments, even socializing with them when not on duty and being completely professional with them when they had to give orders, certainly not acting as overlords which he had expected, though he had been informed the Fire Mandrills had a very close bond with their lower castes during the months-long trip to the Collection.
“This is Khan Aemelia Showers, commanding the combined Collection forces in system. Surrender, snake, or be destroyed. Though I prefer you legless lizards fight us,†Khan Showers growled out ferally, eliciting verbal agreement all across the bridge.
“This is Dante Truscott.†The man said identifying himself, he had been the saKhan of the Star Adders once, how the mighty had been caught low Showers thought. “We will defend ourselves with all our might, stravag monkey. Will you fight with honor befitting a clanswoman you once were or will you fight us as the other clans have done? Without honor,†the Serpent Khan answered the older Fire Mandrill Khan. Matthew thought it odd the man responded that way, though he shrugged it off, for he didn't know the full situation concerning the Serpents and other clans; or the Clans in general if he was truly honest this trip would be full of learning experiences and not just ones from Karen Able.
“Do not speak of honor to us! You who defied our show of honor and instead called us dezgra in the Grand Council! Who helped run us out of the Homeworlds, they were OUR HOMEWORDS as well snake!†Matthew heard the Fire Mandrill Khan yell out to the Serpent Khan. Yup, definitely vengeance speaking, Matthew noted to himself the Mandrill leader was furious about how her Clan had been treated by their kin. “To make things worse YOU and your allies could not even remain in control of the worlds you forced us from!†She continued her anger spilling out “YOU allowed yourselves to be driven from our worlds.â€
The Serpent Khan looked as if he was embarrassed by the Mandrill's challenge and anger. Interesting, Matthew thought to himself. “At the time, my Khan and I believed your clan to be too weak to survive,†he admitted “We thought we knew what was best Khan Showers, we were wrong, you have done well Khan Mandrill.†He said more respectfully.
“Thank you, Dante Truscott,†Khan Showers answered more calmly. “We have fought long and hard to be where we are now.â€
“As the Collection’s pet monkeys, quiaff?†The Serpent Khan responded, eliciting angry responses all over the bridge. Matthew himself was warned never to call a Mandrill a monkey and now he was seeing why; for he could see the palpable anger all the Mandrills on the bridge now had.
“We are not the Collection’s pets, legless lizard!†Khan Showers yelled her anger again at boiling point. “They are our partners and allies. They have given us a home, where our kin turned their back on us, and helped us to defend ourselves when our brethren turned against us!†A moment later, she added menacingly, “Which has allowed us to maintain our strength and even made us stronger. Tell me, what have you lost since forcing us from the Homeworlds?â€
Matthew Davion thought Dante Truscott would respond in normal clan fashion, in anger, so when the other leader didn’t, he was shocked. Instead, the Serpent Khan's former defiance had change to defeat. How and why, Matthew could not say. “Everything, Showers. Everything. Our enclaves. Our way of life. Our people. Everything. We lost everything.†A moment passed, all the while Matthew noticed the tension all over the bridge seemed to deflate over something. He guessed it had something to do with the Homeworlds he knew the Mandrills, at their current strength, were still a fraction of the strength they once held. “I will save what I can of my people, as your predecessor, Cassandra Faraday, did with your clan. I alone will fight you and all you lead here, Khan Mandrill. All I ask is you treat my people with respect and give them a new home I could not. Quiaff?â€
Matthew did not know what Dante Truscott meant by that, glancing at Able's daughter he guessed nor did Karen, yet it seemed the atmosphere of the bridge had turned to something akin to sadness, with many of the Mandrills seemingly lost in remembrance of something, at least until Khan Showers finally answered their opponent. “Neg, Serpent. We have lost too much already to the infighting that consumed so many and to the Society. And I will not lose more of my clan to ensure the destruction of yours. I will not see the death of yet another clan, if I can help it.†She paused, and turned to look at Karen, then quickly turned back to the monitor. “I offer this only once. Join the Collection and stand with us. Or I will carry out your wish to absorb your remaining forces into Clan Fire Mandrill. You have four days to decide. Khan Showers out.â€
The second the connection to the planet was cut off, Matthew watched as Karen Able approach the Fire Mandrill Khan. “What in the hell was that!†she demanded angrily.
“Clan business,†the elderly warrior curtly supplied as her only answer. “You would be wise not to interfere.â€
“I get it. I get you want revenge for whatever happened in the Homeworlds! Now is your chance! Yet you turn it down! Why?â€
“I did not turn it down, Star Marshal. I merely offered the Serpents a chance to survive. The same offer your Collection offered my clan,†she answered back from his place on the bridge Matthew knew that Karen Able liked the sound of 'your Collection.'
“It is not your place to decide who can join the Collection!†was Karen’s angry response “it's our nation!â€
“Tell me, Galaxy Marshal. Will your father or his President’s Council, or even the Rim Congress, stand against my decision to allow the Serpents membership, granting our Collection access to another WarShip? One that is the same class and in better condition than the one you have had us trade to the Federated Suns?†She asked glancing at Matthew who shifted nervously he did not want to be drawn into this but Showers wasn't finished. “Not to mention adding three or four more clusters worth of battle-hardened Clan warriors to our defences? Or to the control of the two worlds the captured Serpent warrior told us the Serpents currently occupy? Neg, I did not think so. Nor do I think you will when it is up to you in the future.†Khan Showers seemed to have deflated Karen, Matthew noted, as she silently turned and slowly left the bridge to calm down.
Khan Showers turned to Matthew then. “You may want to go after her. She might need to couple.â€
“What…how…?†he stammered out.
“Or not,†she remarked before setting to push herself for the bridge exit, leaving Matthew confused as to what just happened he'd assumed the Mandrills were the junior partners in the Collection grabbing onto the rapidly growing Periphery nation for survival. Showers display in front of all these Mandrill warriors and who was likely the future leader of the Rim Collection had shown him a far different side of the relationship and one that General Redburn would want to hear about.
McCarron's Armoured Cavalry Raid
Small World, Alya Prefecture
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
25th May 3096
For three days the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry had fought against the Eighth Dieron Regulars Regiment on the planet of Small World. New recruit Leftenant Ariana Steiner had fought with the unit against the Combine. Initially her actions had been restrained however now that they were falling back towards their DropShips she had become more erratic. Colonel Elizabeth McCarron guessed that she was working through the loss of her parents and wished to take it out on someone, something she could understand, she had assigned Ariana to the rear guard as the unit retreated into their DropShips. The AFFS had given them this assignment in search for any POWs who may have still been held by the Draconis Combine following their recent conflict. McCarron's Emperor Assault Mech stood near the DropShip overlooking the evacuation on the perimetre she watched as Steiner's Warhawk OmniMech walked up to a Draconis Combine Shootist the Mech hit the Warhawk with a one-two punch from its arm mounted particle cannons staggering the heavy Mech. The Warhawk stepped into close range with the Shootist taking an autocannon blast to the torso as she fired her particle cannon again beheading the Combine Mech Elizabeth McCarron shook her head there was no need for Ariana to get that close or to take that amount of damage. “Assault Three fall back to the DropShip.â€
“On my way†the pilot replied targeting a Longbow Assault Mech with her weapons as she retreated. The Warhawk sidestepped the Longbow's counter-attack striking out again with its particle cannons causing more damage. Elizabeth watched as Ariana again stepped out of the way of the Longbow's missiles showing that the pilot had no lack of skill in the assault Mech.
“Assault Three, leave it, there will be another time†McCarron ordered as the Warhawk stepped forward firing a flight of long range missiles and a particle cannon at the Longbow knocking it down to the ground. “Assault Three, now!†Elizabeth McCarron snapped finally the warrior seemed to listen and began to retreat towards the DropShips. It took the assault Mech only a few moments to cross the distance between the perimetre and the DropShip.
“Is everyone on board?†Ariana Steiner asked holding at the entrance to the Overlord.
“Get on board, Leftenant, in the future move when I order you the first time.â€
“I blunted their assault†Steiner complained stepping her Mech into the DropShip bay Elizabeth McCarron looked for any threats that were close most Combine Mechs still hovered near the fallen Longbow. Steiner had blunted the assault but the damage her Mech had taken was unnecessary she had shown fighting the Longbow she could take another Mech on without taking the damage she had taken fighting the Shootist. She'd make sure that Ariana would help repair the Warhawk and if any additional parts were required she would pay for them; unfortunately Elizabeth McCarron did not thing the financial hit would get the warrior's attention.
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The first part comes courtesy of James Tanaga while the last part comes thanks to XTRO Most Wanted I hope you enjoy.
Cassandra, Fire Mandrill Primary Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
2nd June 3096
Star Captain Justine Truscott followed her Khan and Khan Aemelia Showers of the Fire Mandrills out of the DropShip. Behind her, the remnant sibkos and Scientists Dante Truscott had led to Harlez and her supernova began unloading from the Overlord-C DropShip that carried them from the Monolith-class JumpShip that served as an orbital space station to the Mandrills. Already, she could see they were surrounded by what was likely the entire strength the Mandrills had on planet.
“Khan, the Third Rim Lancers CCT, Nineteenth Strikers, and All Dawn’s PGC’s all present and accounted for and stand ready for inspection†reported a large Elemental warrior that had met them, the Fire Mandrill saKhan most likely, Justine decided, as she spotted his rank pins showing the same rank as Khan Aemelia Showers. “Members of the Nineteenth stand ready to escort the former Adder and Cobra legacies to the repository.â€
Khan Showers nodded to the Elemental before turning to Justine’s own Khan. “As agreed, Khan Truscott, my clan stands ready to assist yours in rebuilding your genetics program and training your munchkins, in return for your assistance in defending All Dawn and the Collection from threats. Do you need any more proof of our commitment?â€
“My warriors will help to protect the repository, quiaff?†Khan Dante Truscott asked, glaring at the other Khan. “And should we decide to ever leave the Collection, it will be done peacefully, including our members and property here?â€
“Aff. So long as your clan abides by the agreement, mine shall as well. And the Collection too,†the last the Fire Mandrill Khan included, mostly likely as an afterthought the former Smoke Jaguar was not Cassandra Faraday her Clan would do what she saw was fit.
A moment past as her Khan thought of the agreement, allowing her to do likewise. The former Serpent warriors Dante Truscott led would form a new Galaxy within the Rim Collection Touman and defend it from all threats. In turn, the Mandrills would officially share its impressive genetic repository with them. Truscott's people had no iron wombs in their possession without a lot of Mandrill assistance they would die with the current generation. Though officially there to protect All Dawn, both sides knew Justine’s supernova was there to ensure the safety of her clan’s remaining legacies, nearly all from the Truscott Bloodhouse. What her clan would call themselves, she still did not know, but calling themselves Serpents or even retaining their Star Adder heritage was now out of the question, due in no small part to the failed invasion of the occupation zones roughly two years ago the Star Adders died when they became the Serpents and the Serpents died as they had wanted to now only Truscott's people remained Justine wasn't convinced that they had made the right choice following Dante Truscott but what was done was done.
“Once the gene canisters are finally placed in safety, I will breathe easier, Khan Showers,†Dante Truscott answered at last, bringing Justine out of her thoughts.
“Very well. This way, Khan Truscott,†the Mandrill Khan replied, as she led them into the giant step pyramid that housed the Fire Mandrill repository. As they went in deeper into the pyramid, Justine caught sight of weary Fire Mandrill civilians nearly everywhere, many curious to see their former enemies peacefully within their walls.
They reached the repository without incident and the large party watched quietly, reverently, as members of both clans scientist castes carefully moved the vitally important gene canisters into place. Only when they were safely contained inside the repository did Justine and all other former Serpent warriors and Scientists relaxed, if only a little, for now their clan would truly live on.
“Why did you not go through the Trial of Absorption as you originally desired?†Asked Dante Truscott
A moment passed before the Mandrill Khan answered Dante Truscott’s question while she glanced around at the faces of the former Serpent warriors that were around them, including Justine’s own. “Both our clans have suffered, have sacrificed, and faced its darkest hour at the hands of our enemies, our brethren, and we survived. While I and my clan may wish to absorb yours, and finally end the deep feud between us, I could not take advantage of your situation once you told me of what the clans had lost, for it reminded me of the situation we ourselves faced upon arriving in the Collection. Know this, however. We do not like you. We will never be friends and are only allies due to convenience and for the sake of the Collection.†She said pausing showing yet another side of this former Smoke Jaguar woman; the part that would be loyal to the Collection with her last breath. “Serve the Collection and we will treat you as any other member of the Collection betray us or them and I will personally ensure none of you survive your Annihilation. We understand each other, Quiaff?†As she asked the last, the elderly Fire Mandrill Khan held out her hand.
She was met in a warrior’s handshake by Justine’s khan. “Seyla,†he spoke reverently. All around him, Fire Mandrills and the former Serpents, Justine included, answered with theirs, even the Collection freeborn woman who had escorted them here, all unifying themselves as one. How this would work, Justine had no clue, for Adders and Mandrills never got along in the past and now they had a freebirth periphery nation, which in many ways seemed to want to be a reborn Rim Worlds Republic, mixing in with them. Yet, despite these challenges and possible threats, for the first time in a long time, Justine felt something was different. She felt hope.
Nova Cat Expansion
Pagasi, Nova Cat's Den
Periphery
10th June 3096
With their recent occupation of the world of Carcri the Nova Cats “discover†the world of Pagasi; another free colony near the Nova Cat's Den. The Nova Cat's rapidly move onto the world which has little defences of its own establishing their presence on the planet. The local population offer the Nova Cats little resistance fearful of the Clan's reaction should they attempt to fight.
Raids
Leyland, Qandahar Prefecture
District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
16th June 3096
Following raids on the worlds of Nowhere and Algate the entire Qandahar Prefecture had been on alert for raids. They came at night four completely unknown BattleMechs walked out of the darkness into the Leyland militia base firing as they moved. The first Mech was a massive carrying a huge hatchet in its right arm and a particle cannon in its left arm. The Mech jumped through the air slamming its hatched down on a militia Panther crushing the cockpit killing the pilot instantly.
As the large Mech turned towards another tactic the other three Mechs moved forward spitting particle cannon, laser, missile and autocannon fire into their targets. The lance was methodical cutting down the other three Mechs of the defending militia, and several armoured vehicles. Once their defenders had been destroyed the four Mechs then proceeded to crush the rest of the base killing everyone they encountered. The four Mechs then disappeared into the night not salvaging anything from the base never to be seen again on the planet.
Office of the Marshal of Armies, Fox's Den
Mount Davion, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
19th June 3096
Colonel Fredrick Davion stepped into the Marshal of Armies office and stood at attention the Marshal of Armies Sora Higginson looked up at him “Colonel, I heard that you wished to see me.â€
“Yes, sir†he replied crisply
“Take a seatâ€
“Thank you, sir†he said sitting down
“I hear that you have a proposal for me?â€
“Yes, sir†he said continuing to be respectful “I want to propose raising another Ceti Hussar unit.†He blurted out Sora looked at him surprised by the blatancy of it.
“Colonel, you have been with the First Ceti Hussars for six years and have rapidly raised through the ranks despite your name†she said she knew of Fredrick's career and his exploits against the Capellan Confederation and his refusal to use his family name to his advantage. “However unless you can raid your father's accounts we simply do not have the funding to raise another RCT.†She said trying to let the young man down lightly instead of disappointment however she saw a hint of a smile.
“Sorry to correct you, sir, but I know that you've been charged with raising further RCTs along with those you have already publicly stated will be rebuilt. Son of the First Prince†he explained weakly, finally used your name she thought finding herself surprisingly impressed, “sir, I know that you are probably considering other commands to raise however the Ceti Hussars are a tool that this nation needs more than the LCT Program. We can effectively garrison worlds and strike at others independently and better than any LCT.†He said “and with these new ideas that the officers within the First Ceti Hussars have come up with we can be even more effective.â€
“And I am sure that Avalon Arms would not complain either†she said. Fredrick's proposals suggested that each Ceti Hussar heavy or assault BattleMech lance be supported by a pair or two pairs of Kruger Combat Cars which would act as scouts or harassers. To provide that kind of support for the active Ceti Hussar RCTs would probably take years let alone another unit.
“No sir, however it does not just need to be them, other companies could provide ideas and production.â€
“I'll consider your proposal Colonel†she said finally after thinking for a moment raising to her feet, Fredrick copied her, “thank you for bringing this to me instead of going directly to your father.†She said and she meant it Fredrick could have likely gone to the First Prince with this and she would have gotten orders to fulfill the request instead Fredrick had requested this meeting first through his RCT commander, who supported the idea, then through the regional and Brigade commander to her following the chain of command and impressive feat from the young officer especially one with royal blood in him.
For several days Sora Higginson sat on the idea that Fredrick had proposed eventually deciding to bring it to the First Prince. After explaining the idea and its origin, which she was quite sure had landed Fredrick in trouble with his father as he had conducted “business on his assigned holiday timeâ€, Victor had stated he was not against the idea of more Ceti Hussar units being on the rolls noting that the recently added St Ives Janissaries were already similar in set up to the Ceti Hussars units. Initially she had been tempted to try and tempt one of the Janissaries to the Hussars but she knew that St Ives would be furious by such an approach. Instead she had another idea and called Fredrick Davion back to her office the Colonel had arrived promptly despite being on holiday he wore his uniform “sir.†He said standing to attention Sora looked up at him.
“I've reviewed your proposal and it has promise†she offered Fredrick looked pleased “I will not raise it as an RCT however I am willing to raise it as an LCT.†She said the young man looked unhappy with the idea but remained silent. “You will prove that this concept works. You will structure your LCT like a Combat Command of the Ceti Hussars.â€
“My Combat Command?†Fredrick said “sir I am only a Colonel.â€
“You are thinking more like a Leftenant-General†the Marshal of Armies said standing “Congratulations†she said presenting him with a small box that contained the rank insignia of a Leftenant-General then shaking his hand. As he digested his new promotion Sora continued “you will form this LCT like a combat command, with aerospace and artillery support, however should it be successful it will be expanded into a full RCT like the others. Over time we will expand the other Ceti Hussars along similar lines should it be applicable.â€
“Thank you†he whispered in return still in no small amount of shock.
“Good luck†she answered “your unit will form on Argyle from there you will have the pick of officers from across the AFFS. Be warned I do not want to see you gut the First Ceti Hussars for this project.†She had a feeling that most warriors would not transfer from the First to the Fourth anyway but it was worth making a point.
“Of course sir†he answered already he was thinking on where to start an LCT was not what he'd envisioned the Fourth Ceti Hussars to be, then again he hadn't been expecting to command it either, still a lot of work to do.
Twenty-fifth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Stadium
Star League Protectorate
25th June 3096
The excess energy sizzled off of the Black Knight's shield and PPC as MechWarrior Reginald VanJanster pulled the Mech sized Vibro Blade out of the downed Bandersnatch, which laid at his Mech's feet in a crumpled heap, the Mech had been his final active opponent. The battle, the game, had been a long one with many competitors injured or killed in the fighting. VanJanster had fought on Solaris VII in the circuits for more than twenty-six years he'd never impressed in the circuits but this was his year.
He'd enrolled in the Star League Games as an independent MechWarrior and with his wife Melissa and daughter watching from the stands he had fought all comers to victory securing the title and his little place in history. Now finally he could perhaps be finished with this world and with this Mech he called Red Reaper.
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Command Deck, LCS Archon's Pride (Alliance-class Cruiser)
Tharkad System, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
5th July 3096
On board the LCS Archon's Pride Duchess Jessica Steiner marries Admiral Patrick Doyle the commander of the Archon's Pride WarShip Group. Doyle, almost fifteen years Jessica's senior, was considered to be one of the best naval strategists in the LCAF had been a long term acquaintance of Jessica Steiner having previously commanded the LCS Snow Fire during her time on board the vessel.
Northern Forests
Helen, Alya Prefecture
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
12th July 3096
All through the thick forests of Helen McCarron's Armoured Cavalry Mechs dodged and returned fire against their Draconis Combine pursuers. The McCarron's Armoured Cavalry had coome to the planet expecting the Twenty-fourth District of Dieron Regulars Regiment but instead had encountered the Second Genyosha Regiment with its support assets. The mercenaries were now in a continuous retreat as their DropShips attempted to find a landing zone nearby to evacuate them. “Assault Three to Command, continue Evac I'm going to delay them.â€
“Leftenant, that's suicide†Elizabeth McCarron replied
“Negative McCarron it's what's needed done†she replied turning her Warhawk Assault OmniMech towards the enemy “Assault Lance continue to fall back†she ordered her lance filling the air with autocannon, laser and missile fire. Before taking another step she launched another savage attack on another Genyosha Mech. “Assault Lance I gave you an order fall backâ€
“Negative Assault Three, we're on your six, we'll hold the back door open when you're ready.†One of her lance mates replied Ariana smiled engaging another enemy Mech with her weapons. “Just don't wait too long boss we've got quite a few moving in.â€
“I see them†Ariana said “Twelve and Six break east target the forests if you can't see the Dracs set as many fires as you can and head for the DropShips.†She said firing on another Mech “go now guys!†she called out as her Mech was hit by a tightly group of missiles that ripped into her Warhawk's armour. Two of her lancemates turned and began to move away from them leaving Ariana and her lancemate in an Seven Atlas II BattleMech.
“That leaves us boss†he said blanketing the enemy with missiles and autocannon fire as Ariana fired again.
“We're going west same routine if you can't see them you set a fire got it?â€
“Yup†he replied hitting the enemy again “ready when you areâ€
“Go†she called out both Mechs immediately started moving through the trees crushing the smaller trees as they went firing their weapons into the forest setting several fires. As the Combine units continued to close the McCarron Mechs set several more fires causing masses of smoke to obscure the field.
“Assault Three to Crypt Hammer do me a favour and tell me you have that big gun online?†Ariana asked
“You're lucky day, Assault Three, you have a target?†The Fortress-class DropShip commander asked.
“Nothing specific Crypt Hammer I want you to fire on my position drop the heavy hitsâ€
“You're looking at danger close fire Assault Three?â€
“Confirmed do it†she ordered continuing to move and fire at the enemy Mechs she counted no less than six enemy designs in close proximity to her and Seven. Several moments later several artillery rounds slammed into the ground near them. “Seven, forget taking shots go.†She ordered backing up she fired the last of her autocannon ammunition.
“Only if you are coming as well, Three, we both need to go†he said as the Atlas was hit by a gauss rifle shot.
“Let's go†Ariana agreed falling back as more artillery shots landed all around them. There was far more artillery than she thought the Crypt Hammer had available as they crashed through the trees Ariana saw nearly a platoon of artillery vehicles had set up near the DropShip.
“Get on board†Elizabeth McCarron ordered “you're the last Leftenant let's get off this rock.â€
“I'll hold for the artillery†Ariana offered
“Negative they are on automated controls once they have finished firing they are done.†McCarron reported the loss of four artillery pieces would hurt but Ariana didn't stop to think further about it instead boarding the Fortress. Immediately she was directed towards a Mechbay as was her lancemate followed her, before they were even fully secure in their Mechbays, she felt a rumbling in the ship as it's engines began to fire.
The six McCarron's DropShips and their attending aerospace fighters fought up through the atmosphere of Helen engaging the Genyosha aerospace fighters as they went. The ships continued to raise away from the planet and out of orbit heading into the system. As they escaped Ariana Steiner moved through the ship reporting to Colonel Elizabeth McCarron's quarters “Colonel†she reported saluting to her regiment commander.
“Leftenant Steiner, more performances like that and I might need to promote you.†She said the Colonel was covered covered in dirt from the recent fighting.
“We lost an entire platoon of artillery, the mission was a bust...†she said
“But that was all beyond your control Leftenant, you stuck to your people and did your job I've very pleased with your performance.â€
“Thank you Colonel†she said saluting again before leaving the room.
Contract negotiation
Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
15th July 3096
Following the success of the Star League Defence Force in negotiating with Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad for several Peter-class Scout vessels the Federated Suns negotiate for four vessels. With the funds gained from this purchase Lockheed/CBM are able to expand their construction facilities to four slips while also expanding their development offices and hiring addition staff. With the company already tasked by the LCAF High Command to produce a new class of vessels the construction of these vessels for the SLDF and AFFS is seen as an effective way of keeping their construction crews at the top of their profession constructing and maintaining the Sub-compact cores that are at the heart of the vessels.
With the Federated Suns already in possession of a Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft which the FSN have been using as a training craft in the Hadrian's Command system these Peter-class Scouts will be operational vessels of the Federated Suns Navy.
Royal Allard-Liao Spaceport, Tian-tan
St Ives, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
20th July 3096
Not long after the Union-X class DropShip had landed at the Royal Allard-Liao Spaceport on St Ives four Battle/OmniMechs painted in the colours of the Royal Brigade of Davion Guards raced towards the primary planetary base. On the back of a Stealth OmniMech four Infiltrator III Heavy Battle Armour suits rode as extra security. Entering the base the four Mechs were rapidly escorted to a nearby reinforced hanger since the attempt against Duchess Kym Hasek's life no-one was taking chances.
After parking her Mech in the designated bay the pilot moved down the ladder from her Stealth OmniMech's cockpit to the ground. The trip had been a short one and with no expected combat Leftenant-Colonel Jaylen Davion had worn her duty uniform in the cockpit meaning she was ready to get started when she hit the tarmac. She'd been assigned by the DMI to investigate the recent renegade St Ives attack on the Capellan Confederation. As an officer approached she was very aware of the four Infiltrator III Battle Armoured Bodyguards who had arrayed themselves around her the Heavy Battle Armour suits were hardly invisible despite their attempts at keeping their distance.
“Leftenant-Colonel Davion, welcome to St Ives†the officer, a Major she noted, said as he saluted her. Jaylen returned the salute silently looking over his uniform noticing the insignia of the First St Ives Lancers RCT she knew his face she thought.
“You're Tristan Allard-Liao?†She said suddenly her memory kicked in.
“Correct†he said curtly he was the only child of Kuan-Yin Allard-Liao the youngest child of Candice Liao. Kuan-Yin had worked for almost her entire life keeping the people of the St Ives Compact going ensuring supplies reached the planets that needed them as a result Tristan had been born late in his mother's life meaning he was only a couple of years older than Jaylen. “I have been assigned to assist you in anyway possible.†He continued the last thing she really needed was a St Ives noble helping her she thought.
“Thank you Major, I'll try not to keep you away from your unit for too longâ€
“Of course Duchess, we have quarters set up waiting for you for the duration of your stay.â€
“Get this straight Major, while I wear this uniform my name and title don't matter just like yours don't. I am a Leftenant-Colonel in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns and will be addressed as such.†She stated possibly a little too harsh on the man but she wanted something set straight Burton and Fredrick were not the only children of the First Prince who served their nation's military.
“Understood†he replied curtly taking the dressing down remarkably well she thought “we have also set aside an office for you.â€
“Very good, I'm ready to get started, lead on Major.†She said the St Ives officer turned and headed off into the command complex as Jaylen followed. Across the hanger she was very aware of the squad of Infiltrator IIIs matching their pace but keeping their distance. The St Ives command base had been built before Battle Armour was introduced to the military forces of the Inner Sphere so as she entered the base the troopers could not follow further. A little freedom Jaylen thought for a moment unfortunately her advanced team had prepared for this restriction as she and Tristan entered the complex two suited bodyguards fell into step behind her. Jaylen recognized both as she stepped past them “Chris, Lawrence, no getting away from you guys is there?â€
“No mam†Chris replied she wondered silently if her brothers had ever suffered the feeling of being suffocated by their bodyguard complements.
Launching ceremony, High Orbit
Orbital Facilities, Free-flight Limited/Hellraiser Productions
Oriente Protectorate, Former Free Worlds League
31st July 3096
After three years of hard work the first three vessels produced at the Orbital Facilities over Fletcher are launched by the the Free-flight Limited/Hellraiser Productions engineers. To everyone beyond those in the shipyard and a select few on Fletcher and Oriente the shipyards had been producing Monolith-class JumpShips. It had been planned for these three ships to be pulled clear of the shipyards and to the system's nearest jump point so it comes to a surprise to everyone when the three vessels move clear of the facilities under their own power.
The three vessels are revealed to be of a new type of WarShip the Monolisk-class Destroyer. Sharing the same four hundred and thirty thousand ton displacement and matching the Monolith's nine DropShip collars that is where the similarities end with the Monolisk hulls featuring a far sturdy hull capable of taking the punishment WarShips were expected to, WarShip grade Ferro-carbide armour, a maneuvering drive capable of a maximum thrust of two point five gravities, aerospace fighter bays for up to forty aerospace fighters and room for twelve small craft. Already these vessels featured extensive conventional weapons bays made up of long range missile, heavy particle cannon and light gauss rifle arrays these weapons sneaked into the shipyard mixed in with other cargo to disguise them. With the vessels true nature now revealed Hellraiser Productions planned to mount a number of Sub-Capital Missile Launchers, Naval Lasers and Naval autocannons to the hulls along with anti-missile and screen launcher systems for defence to complete the hull a process that the shipyards expected to take no more than a year.
The Oriente Protectorate announced soon after the initial launch of the three vessels that they had purchased all three vessels from Hellraiser Productions naming them the OPS Monolisk, OPS Oriente and OPS Fletcher. They also announced that the Oriente Protectorate had purchased the next three productions runs planned at the facility for a total of nine vessels.
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The Peregrine Corvette
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/peregrine-corvette/msg38658/#msg38658 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/peregrine-corvette/msg38658/#msg38658)
I'm working on the Monolisk-class which currently is a mess but hopefully will work soon
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My thanks to James Tanaga for the "Cauldron of Blood" section
Royal Birth, Halas Palace
Oriente, Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
3rd August 3096
The Halas family welcome two further members into their family as Captain-General Jonas Halas wife gives birth to twin sons Ralph and Javier following Sophie Halas to continue the family line. The two sons like the rest of the Halas family are placed under Le Grande Belle's protection.
“Cauldron of Bloodâ€
Repair Base 77, Periphery
13th August 3096
Captain Canin McKinnon, the commander of Delta Company, looked out across the battlefield. The entire area was bathed in blood, bodies, and broken Mechs gaining it the name Cauldron of Blood. Yesterday’s battle had nearly destroyed the combined Federated Suns/Rim Collection force on the planet.
It had started with explosions throughout the cauldron, hidden in wrecked vehicles and Mechs, while the Elementals and Salamanders of the Rim Clanners that were set on the crests in the north and south were suddenly engaged in heavy fire from Stone Spirit forces. Quickly the forces at the north embankment were overwhelmed while the south fought for their lives. By the time the forces in the cauldron had collected themselves, they had found themselves mostly surrounded by the Spirits in the crest lines of the cauldron, effectively creating a kill zone on the joint allied force.
It would have been a disaster if not for Captain David McKinnon and the Rim Collection’s Fourth Rim Regulars, Canin knew, thinking of his cousin. David McKinnon and the men and women he commanded were the first ones to recollect themselves turning on the threats all around them. Forming a line made up of what survivors of his Fox’s Teeth detachment and what Rim Clanners that were around them, David McKinnon led a charge up the southern crest line, reaching it just as it was about to fall and continued to hold the line despite heavy casualties.
At the same time, the Fourth Rim Regulars, the only Rim Collection cluster outside the cauldron, picked up its pace and circled around the Spirit’s forces in the north while the forces in the cauldron, including his own Delta Company detachment, slowly forced their way to engage the Spirits in the north. All this happened without any of the promised air support something had gone wrong which Canin was still waiting for an answer. If they had the air support promised by the Collection, and their pet clanners, Canin knew the entire battle would have been different they would have been able to roll over the Stone Spirits and maybe secure Repair Base 77.
Yet they didn’t have the promised air support and now, while the Rim Collection had its first major victory against the Spirits, it was a Pyrrhic victory, one that cost each side greatly. The Spirits of the north crest line ended up being torn apart as they were slowly sandwiched by the forces inside the cauldron and the fourth Rim Regulars, while the Spirits in the south were held just below the crest line. The battle lasted for hours, until the Spirits on the north crest line were finally destroyed, just as the promised air support, with large numbers of Clanner Elementals and Salamanders, had arrived, concentrating entirely in the south, encircling the Spirits there. By the time the joint forces moved to support the south crest line, the entire battle had finally ended.
Yet, Canin grieved, it had cost the Davion forces, including his own, greatly. Of the twelve MechWarriors and three squads of Battle Armour that had made up the Fox’s Teeth David led in attacking the southern crest, only two lances of Mechs and six Infiltrator III Heavy Battle Armour suits several of them were still in surgery. Rumors had David McKinnon dying of radiation poisoning from his Black Knight BattleMech’s fusion engine being cracked, he must have known his Mech was damaged but he had continued to the end, just as the Collection’s pet monkeys had arrived Canin thought angrily.
Of the Rimmers, it had cost them large portions of the monkey’s Third Battle Cluster and a smaller portion of the Fourth Rim Regulars, and the entire ground component of the First Striker Cluster, including Star Colonel Lopez.
But they had won in the end, he thought grimly, if this was the cost for every battle…Canin shook those thoughts away, refusing to allow them to even enter into his mind. For where doubt exists, death follows soon after, a saying his father, Ross McKinnon, had told him shortly before he had died.
His radio came to life “Captain McKinnon,†he recognized the voice belonging to Leftenant Sandy Hill, an assistant to General Redburn, the overall commander of the Davion forces in the Rim Collection. “Campfire roundup at the Crazy Horse in thirty mikes. Acknowledge.â€
“Roger that, Control. Save me a seat, will you? I suddenly feel like having some fried monkey steak tonight at the campfire. Over.†As he waited for the Leftenant to confirm the last, Canin didn’t care if the general rebuked him for saying that loud and clear. After today, he was beyond caring if the monkeys heard him.
“This is Redburn,†he was shock to hear General Redburn come into his radio and was himself monitoring the comms. “The monkey steaks are already on the grill. See you at the campfire. Redburn out.†Canin allowed himself a small shrug after Redburn ended the radio connection on his end. It really shouldn’t have surprised him, really.
An hour and a half later, the battle reports from the battle had finally ended. The cause of why the air support was so late was reported by the lone Rim Collection warrior, the star colonel of the Fourth Rim Regulars, an Able no less and apparently the highest ranking Rim Collection officer planet side at the moment. A solar storm in system had reportedly caused much havoc in the atmosphere. While ground radio still worked, it meant radio contact in orbit was sketchy at best. Canin found this excuse to be just too laughable if they couldn't communicate by radio why the hell hadn't they sent down recon patrols, and was about to comment on that, yet General Redburn had seemingly acquiesce to the Rim Collection warrior at least publicly accepting their reasons.
Only after she left did Redburn speak openly to Canin and the other Davion commanders. “If they expect us to believe that pile of horse manure that woman just fed to us, they’re crazy,†he loudly stated. Turning his head to Light Commodore Matthew Davion, who was reporting via HPG, he continued. “Commodore, I want answers, not the Rim’s excuses. Understand?â€
“Yes sir,†Canin heard the Victorian Davion report to their commander. “You want me to use the proper channels or do some side checking?†Canin didn’t know what he was talking about.
“The back door if you trust the source. The front door if you don’t.â€
“Understood Sir,†the Light Commodore responded back to Redburn.
“Get to it. Redburn out,†Redburn grunted out before shutting down the comm station, shutting down communication with the commodore. “I need everyone’s opinions. Can our forces maintain combat effectiveness after today?†He asked everyone around the comm table.
As everyone else reported their opinion on that matter, Canin himself stayed quiet, listening to each one and all basically said the same thing. The AFFS ground forces needed weeks to refit and wait for reinforcements from the Federated Suns.
“I believe we can still maintain our commitment to the Collection sir,†he advised the general. As the others in the room looked around each other as if he lost his head, Canin continued. “I need to travel to Arc-Royal.†He said “there are a couple of my family contacts there, I think I can convince them to re-up with the AFFS.â€
“If we want them to re-enlist?â€
“We do, sir, they should have never left†Canin reported “they were handed a short stick back home but with your authority I can convince them.†He said
“That's an interesting position to put your CO in Captain†he said sternly
“Sir these people are very good at what they do and would be worthy additions.â€
“Okay what about the rest the Fox's Teeth and Delta Company we all took losses?†Captain Olivia Foreman commander of Delta Company's second company.
“We will need to recruit from the Collection, though I believe after today, the Collection will give us the leeway to do so, sir.†Canin said refocusing on Redburn
“Why would the Rimmers do so, Captain McKinnon,†asked Leftenant Sandy Hill.
Canin was about to answer when Redburn instead did so. “Because the Collection owes us, Leftenant. At the moment, we’re their only real allies and they know we’re pissed at what their incompetence after this last battle has cost us, especially after showing us how well they could operate with us since we have arrived here to aid them. They will do what they can to keep us here, so long as it doesn’t violate their military agreements with the monkeys and raptors.†He said “if Canin is able to recruit who he wants we can supplement our lances with these new recruits and anyone from the Collection who wishes to join up with us.â€
“Yes sir,†Canin agreed with him.
“And what if they don’t sir,†the Leftenant asked.
“They won’t" Redburn assured them confident now after thinking over Canin's idea. "But if they do, we’ll decide then and only then on what to do. Am I clear?†General Redburn eyed the entire table as everyone, including Canin, acknowledged him with a yes sir. “Good. Get back to your units and keep calm around the monkeys. Captain McKinnon, stay behind.â€
After they were alone, General Redburn looked him up and down. “You look like you just went through hell, son.â€
“With respect, sir, you heard the battlefield reports, both ours and theirs,†he kept his anger just at bay as he reported to his superior. Damien Redburn could see the turmoil in the man, maybe some time away from the Collection would do him well.
“I did. Yet no one else under my command had a family member assigned to this mission,†Redburn reminded him. “I am sorry for your loss, son. And I will find out what the hell happened to our air support. However, I need your word as a soldier and an officer of the Federated Suns not to react violently against the Rimmers and their clanners.â€
So this is what this was about, Canin seethed, as he balled his hands. “You have my word I will not lash out at our supposed allies, sir. Yet I don’t make any promises not to demand a Trial of Grievance for whoever screwed us royally over in the battle. Sir.â€
Redburn nodded his head as he leaned against the comm table. “David was a good officer and a better soldier,†the general reminded him. “I won’t stop you from doing what you must, son. Just make sure you come to me so I can hammer out the details first to ensure no blow back comes your way from the Rimmers. Clear?â€
Canin instinctively stood at attention. “Is that an order, sir,†he asked his superior.
“Only if it needs to be, captain.â€
“Yes sir. May I be excused, sir,†Canin asked.
“In a moment son. With David’s death, our ground component no longer has a commander. You’re it. I would usually say congratulations are in order, Major, but not after what happened today.â€
“Yes, sir†Canin replied
“Get yourself cleaned up, you ship out tomorrow for All Dawn, you'll hook up with the FSS Zibler and the Warsaw. You'll transfer to a civilian transport at Halfway and be re-routed to Arc Royal from there. We'll begin recruiting efforts here.â€
“Yes, sir†Canin replied curtly before heading off Damien would keep an eye on the young McKinnon officer as well as many of the other members of their command.
Border Reinforcement
Draconis March, Federated Suns
22nd August 3096
With Sterling McKenna's defacto defection to the Federated Suns the Snow Ravens had communicated less and less with the Succession State and their traders had crossed the border far less. To account for this cooling in the relationship between neighbours the AFFS had send four additional WarShips and three additional Regimental Combat Teams into the Draconis March stationing them within distance of worlds on the Raven Alliance border. On top of this they assigned three more mercenary commands to the Crucis March worlds near by ready to jump to worlds attacked by the Ravens. This additional firepower in the region had a by-product effect with pirate raids in the region being far less effective.
Skada Ravine Memorial Centre
Megrez, Independent World
Former Free Worlds League
26th August 3096
The world of Megrez had benefited from the break-up of the Free Worlds League in ways similar to that of Bowang. Situated between the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey and the Lyran Commonwealth the system had become a place where the nations around it could meet, discuss their issues and trade goods. Unlike Bowang the people of Megrez had no ambitions beyond their own world benefiting from the three nations around it being unwilling to make an offensive move on Megrez and those around it.
On Megrez there were several beautiful places for people to enjoy and explore one such place was the Skada Ravine on the northern continent. During 3018 during the Third Succession War the Ravine on the northern continent had been the sight of a battle between the Marik Militia and forces of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. As with many battles of the Third Succession War the Battle of Skada Ravine had turned into a deadly close quarters brawl as both sides ran low on ammunition several of the Mechs had been destroyed by physical blows before the end of the fight. In the years since the end of the Fourth Succession War the Skada Ravine Memorial Centre had been built as a reminder to the world that Megrez had a brutal past.
Unlike many worlds while Megrez past was brutal its present had been relatively peaceful leading to many visitors to the memorial centre especially through the planet's summer months, between July and October. Making it the perfect target. The Mauler BattleMech marched down the side of the grassed Ravine immediately missiles and autocannon fire slammed into the defenceless Memorial Centre. A second and third salvo of fire slammed into the facility shattering walls and starting fire then as quickly as the Mauler had begun its attack the Mech executed a perfect turn and heading into the planet's countryside leaving the memorial centre to burn.
Several hours later as the Mech continued away from the destroyed Memorial Centre a green Marauder II stepped out ahead of the Mauler. “MechWarrior halt!†the Warrior called out because of the distortion the Mauler pilot could not tell if it was a man or woman on board the Marauder II.
“Do you wish to die?†Gunther Dudsen asked looking over the Marauder it was bigger than his Mauler but the assault Mech was a tough Mech one that could take the beating that the Marauder could dish out.
“That is a question that you should ask yourself, Mr Dudsen†the other MechWarrior replied as an Ebon Jaguar stepped out from the Mauler's left hand side while a Javelin walked out on the right and a VTOL buzzed overhead suddenly it was three Mechs and a vehicle against his Mech.
“I have many times†he replied concentrating on the Marauder II he knew the Mech, who didn't “am I your Bounty?†He asked
“Not today, you haven't reached that level quite yet...â€
“Then why?â€
“I'd like to help you reach that level†the Bounty Hunter replied “it's simple, you join us today and tomorrow you fight across the Inner Sphere.â€
“And if I don't?â€
“Then we part ways with our best wishes for your future success.†The pilot replied the Marauder II was not standing weapons ready to engage instead it simply blocked his path, the others were ready for a fight and in one the Javelin would easily be the best choice but then there was the offer.
“What would be my cut?†He asked
“Equal share in what you are involved inâ€
“And should there be... collateral damage?â€
“The more the merrier, Herr Dudsen.â€
“And I can go my own way if I choose at anytime?â€
“We'd prefer you stayed within our group but if you chose to leave you would not be stopped unless it was during a contract.â€
“Understood†Dubsen replied “deal†he replied a moment later agreeing to the Bounty Hunter's terms, perhaps now he could extend the body count.
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Nice update DC, only one thing, in this piece - To account for this cooling in the relationship between neighbours the AFFS had send four additional WarShips and three additional Regimental Combat Teams into the Draconis Combine stationing them within distance of worlds on the Raven Alliance border. shouldn't it be Draconis March?
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Nice update DC, only one thing, in this piece - To account for this cooling in the relationship between neighbours the AFFS had send four additional WarShips and three additional Regimental Combat Teams into the Draconis Combine stationing them within distance of worlds on the Raven Alliance border. shouldn't it be Draconis March?
m
Yes there not quite ready for the next war yet... Thanks for catch
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Nice update DC, only one thing, in this piece - To account for this cooling in the relationship between neighbours the AFFS had send four additional WarShips and three additional Regimental Combat Teams into the Draconis Combine stationing them within distance of worlds on the Raven Alliance border. shouldn't it be Draconis March?
m
Yes there not quite ready for the next war yet... Thanks for catch
No probs.
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Royal Assignment
New Kyoto, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd September 3096
From Skye Duke Robert Kelswa-Steiner announces that his eldest daughter had joined the Second Isle of Skye Guards on New Kyoto as a Kommandant and a MechWarrior. The twenty-eight year old had been serving with serving on Skye with the Seventeenth Skye Guards Regiment few had expected the Duke to assign his child to a combat command.
Orbital Construction Galatea Station
Galatea Orbit, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
11th September 3096
After months of intense negotiations construction begins in the Galatea star system of the “Galatea Station†a self contained community of civilian and military personnel sponsored by the Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission, the Isle of Skye, the Lyran Commonwealth, the Star League Defence Force, Clans Mountain Wolf and Sea Fox. The station, which will be built over the dead world of Galatea, is planned to be capable of housing a quarter of a million humans and will mass two and a half million tons, have a dozen kilometre wide gravity decks and a dozen DropShip collars.
Although not built as a “battle-station†the station would have a defence force who would answer to the MRBC. These weapons would be a mixture of Rotary and LBX-class Autocannons, Laser Anti-Missile Systems, AR-15 Multi-Purpose Sub-capital Missile Launchers and Killer Whale Capital Missile Launchers supplementing these defences would be up to sixty-four aerospace fighters, twenty-four small craft and up to four thousand marines for internal security and defence all of which will be hired and paid by the MRBC. The Lyran Commonwealth and Isle of Skye Commands both have authority to base combat units on the station and oversee operations while the SLDF are invited to the station as advisers none of the three organizations plan to place permanent combat assets on the station or in the system.
In the words of the leader of the Galatea survivors the station is “a dream given form.†As part of the agreement made over the station any survivor from Galatea is welcome as a resident on the station while all of those who are involved in the building of the station will also be allowed a place on board it.
Border Raid
Nashur, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
18th September 3096
In a suspected Capellan Confederation raid Leftenant-Colonel Jaylen Davion and Major Tristen Allard-Liao join the defenders of Nashur in repulsing the invaders. Their combined lance engage the defenders on multiple occasions turning away the aggressors. Unfortunately none of the enemy pilots are captured by the AFFS units so the defenders origin is unknown. Following the attacks Jaylen and Tristen continue the investigation into rogue St Ives forces attacking Sian.
Board Meeting
Corporate Offices, Gilmour MilTech
Talitha, Star League Protectorate
22nd September 3096
It had taken months to get them together but now Director Edwin Manning sat across from Chairman Charlyn Li of LexaTech Industries of Irece. “Our proposal is simple we work together to return LAM technology to the forefront of the Inner Sphere's weapons.â€
“I am unsure if House Kurita would want us sharing our information with a foreign nation's corporation they have invested a lot of money and personnel into our company.†She explained the Kurita banks had kept the company afloat during its darker days.
“Even if it meant gaining direct access to our Shadow Hawk LAM program and the information required to build it?â€
“Something that Tamarind already has access to.†She said noting the recent deal with allowed the Tamarind based Anthony Brett-Marik Memorial Land and Air Mech factory to build the Shadow Hawk LAMs.
“At a substantial cost†Edwin said Tamarind's banks were financing much of Gilmour MilTech's recent developments; more so than even the SLDF. “We would also share development with you of future developing technologies are working on which Tamarind is not privy to.â€
“That would be of interest to us.†She said improving LAM technology was important to both companies.
“If you agree we will share costs of development, exchange notes on these developments and share the benefits and production rights for each others products and designs.†Edwin said
“Sharing everything could be an interesting sell to our shareholders†she replied thinking mostly of the Kurita family interests in the company “but I believe they are doable.â€
“Then you agree with our ideas?†He asked raising to his feet
“In principle, Mr Manning, certainly in principle.†She said raising to her own feet. “We will talk again†she said shaking his hand in agreement. Several weeks later the two companies agreed terms to work together into the future to improve LAM technology.
Author note
Don't do these often but just to keep you updated
The Galatea Station is another unit that I found on the forum a while ago (who made I can't remember but they have my thanks) I'll post the stats shortly as I've modded it a bit - unfortunately getting it to look right when modding a design by hand is a pain but I'm getting there. The Monolisk is in the same boat I've almost got it sitting right I'll try to post both within the next few days.
Hope you enjoy
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Cool update!
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Steiner Royal Palace
Arcturus, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd October 3096
House Steiner's public relations department announces that Duchess Jessica Steiner was leaving active service as a member of the LCAF to concentrate on her duties as heir to the Lyran Commonwealth. Within a week of the announcement it is announced that the duchess is pregnant with her first child.
Colonization Effort
Son Hou Theatre, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
14th October 3096
The Lyran Commonwealth announce the colonization of three systems between Son Hou and St Andrews, these worlds are named Cyteen, Belzagor and Amel. The Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey take little interest in this region instead concentrating on ensuring they continue to hold Bolan and the worlds near it. The Lyran's colonization efforts based on Son Hou plan to move onto six further worlds in the region further securing the Lyran links to St Andrews.
Further into the periphery on the Briton family controlled Cyclops Station Pirate Queen Gabriela Briton calls on all the local pirate bands to allow this Lyran expansion and allow the new colonies to grow large enough before they are targeted by raids.
McCarron's Armoured Cavalry
Thestria, Sakhara PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
20th October 3096
The McCarron's Armoured Cavalry had returned to Thestria from a patrol of the Draconis March's Periphery worlds during which the regiment had engaged multiple pirate raider forces and a probing attack by a Snow Raven Cluster. During that attack recently promoted Captain Ariana Steiner had led a counter attack against the Ravens which had broken their attack on the McCarron's Armoured Cavalry saving the Third Battalion from heavy damage.
“How go the repairs?†Elizabeth McCarron asked approaching the Captain who was looking over her damaged Warhawk.
“They will be done soon.†Ariana said not looking away from the Mech.
“A gutsy move†Elizabeth said praising her initiative and bravery.
“Thank you, Colonelâ€
“You could have been killed†she said now sounding more concerned
“Part of the job†Ariana said with little emotion.
“Part that you have paid for a lot recently†Elizabeth said quietly “we've got some downtime, I think you should take some R&R.â€
“Is that an order Colonel?â€
“If it needs to be†Elizabeth said “you've proven yourself a capable warrior and officer, Ariana you need to live a little.â€
“I'm a competent killer so I should enjoy it a bit?†Ariana said angrily
“That's not what I mean, take some personal time, perhaps you could visit your brother.â€
“Is that an order, sir†Ariana asked coldly with the barest emotion regarding her brother.
“Take the time, Captain†Elizabeth said walking off. Several hours later Ariana booked flights for her and her OmniMech to Solaris, the Colonel wanted her to take time, how she spent her private time was up to her.
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Diplomatic Meeting, SLDF Command
Kittery Prefecture, Star League Protectorate
10th November 3096
The SLDF had called representatives of the Capellan Confederation and Federated Suns to Kittery to discuss the continuing fighting between the two nations SLDF Peacekeepers remained on Vestallas and St Loris; two of the worst hit worlds by the fighting. On one side of the table sat Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao, representing the Federated Suns, while Mandarin Nicholas Cin, represented the Capellan Confederation, sat opposite. At the end of the table Commanding-General Archer Christifori sat with another man behind him. The SLDF commander announces that the SLDF will permanently be remaining on St Loris and Vestallas, at those worlds request, and that those worlds including Kittery and Sharpe would form the Kittery Prefecture.
Christifori informs both states that the “nation†would act as a buffer state for the SLDF between the Capellan Confederation and the St Ives PDZ it would be a self governed Prefecture from Kittery and be defended by the SLDF any act of aggression against the worlds of the Kittery Prefecture would be classed as an act of aggression against the SLDF. Christifori goes on to say that the individual with him would Govern the Kittery Prefecture the man in his early fifties had dark brown hair and what appeared to be a near permanent scowl finally he had a well trimmed goatee the Commanding-General introduces him as Protector-General Devlin Stone someone who is clearly capable of taking care of himself and someone who would not take either state pushing him or the new Protectorate around.
Royal Birth, Cameron-Jones Palace
Regulus, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
17th November 3096
The leader of the Principality of Regulus Lester Cameron-Jones becomes a father for the second time with the birth of his son, who is named Caden Cameron-Jones. There is little to celebrate however as the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth launch a full attack on Sophie's World. Defending the planet are the Blade Legion who take heavy damage defending the planet, the mercenary force successfully force the Marik-Stewart forces back off the planet.
Planetary landings
Astrokaszy, Independent world
Periphery
28th November 3096
The three Union class dropped into Astrokaszy's atmosphere landing at three points near Shervanis City home of the only civilization on the planet. The three DropShips immediately disgorged their reinforced companies which charged into the capital city rapidly blasting their way through security check points. Once in position around the defenders barracks the Tortugan Phalanx Moras opened fire bathing their barracks in fire eliminating nearly all the support troops and a significant portion of the Shervanis Caliphate's defenders.
With the planetary garrison crippled by the attack the Phalanx turned on the remaining defenders cutting them and their supporters down. For hours the Phalanx, a pirate band that was thought destroyed on Tortuga, cut down dozens of supporters to the Shervanis Caliphate declaring martial law in the city clearing a path of destruction and death for Polemarch Naxamander Anabasis to enter the city and declare ownership over the Caliphate and all its holdings.
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Finally the Monolisk-class Destroyer
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/monolisk-class-destroyer/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/monolisk-class-destroyer/)
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Time to end 3096
Pirate Raids
Turtle Bay, Alberio Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
12th December 3096
Stories of a mysterious BattleMech lance that had terrorized the periphery worlds of the Draconis Combine in early 3096 had spread like wildfire despite the Kurita Government's best efforts to keep things under wraps. As a result of these whispered stories many worlds had been on edge worried of another attack some of these worlds had begun hiring small mercenary commands or raising “Citizens Militia†to supplement their defensive forces one such world was Turtle Bay in the Alberio Prefecture.
The world Turtle Bay was infamous in the history of the Inner Sphere for the Turtle Bay Massacre in 3050 by Clan Smoke Jaguar. Following heavy riots in the city of Edo the Smoke Jaguars had withdrawn from the City, causing the resistance to declare victory, only for the Smoke Jaguars to call in orbital fire support on the city killing millions as Edo was flattened.
With one massacre behind them Turtle Bay intended on making sure this did not happen again hiring three small mercenary commands. One of these were a lance in strength of four Mechs many people said that they didn't recognize the designs however for the first two weeks the lance was an additional security force for the planet. However on a cold Tuesday morning when the lance made its move during the night they had repainted their Mechs red, black and white charging through the spaceport they opened fire on multiple facilities cutting down dozens of workers. Before the four Mechs entered their DropShip, an Aurora-class DropShip, they turned their guns on the planetary spaceport's command terminal and tracking dishes destroying them.
Raven Colonization
Raven Alliance, Periphery
19th December 3096
When Clan Snow Raven joined with the Outworlds Alliance, to form the Raven Alliance, they made certain promises to the periphery nation to push into the territories that had formerly been held by the Outworlds Alliance. Due to border conflicts the Ravens had been unable to keep this promise however now that there was peace the Snow Ravens launched recolonization efforts onto Flynn and Gayle two of the long abandoned worlds. Even as these colonization efforts continue the Snow Ravens continue to look at nearly a dozen further worlds.
Test Flight
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
25th December 3096
For nine months Sterling McKenna had been separated from the Snow Raven Clan, her home for her entire life until now, she had no complaints Burton Davion's word that she would be welcome on New Avalon was not wrong. Burton's father Victor Davion the man who had ended the Clan War had welcomed and her son with open arms while his wife Danai, who she knew was a Clan War veteran, had dotted on them constantly. Burton's younger sister, Sarah, a civilian had quickly become a close friend and often helped care for Luther the youngest of Victor's children Sarah had one child of her own Brian Davion aged two years old who she often took along as well.
It was an easy family life but one that was suffocating her she was a warrior she had fought almost every enemy of her Clan personally and won dozens of hand-to-hand battles. Burton must have seen that something was wrong as he'd arranged for her to have a trip to a landing strip outside Avalon City there she'd found a pair of Davion built Dagger OmniFighters and her flight suit which had somehow made it here from the Davion Palace. With the suit was a note which read simply “Enjoy, B†she'd wasted no time in changing and was soon high in the atmosphere of New Avalon with a wing man matching her moves.
The Dagger was not as advanced as the Clan designs she had flown but as an OmniFighter it was still one of the more advanced fighters produced by the Inner Sphere. Sterling slipped the fighter left and right keeping the aerospace fighter's speed up she rolled the fighter over onto its back looking up through the canopy down at the planet below before rolling back around to proper flight. “Buster, Raven, you think we could take these things down low?†She suggested high flying was nice.
“The Dina flight range isn't far away let me confirm the skies are clear†he replied moments later her system activated again “Raven, Buster, we're clear to enter Dina Flight Range.â€
“Try to keep up†Sterling said laughing rolling her fighter over and diving towards the ground her wing mate followed with a less elaborate dive through the atmosphere towards the ground. Within minutes the two OmniFighters were flying less than twenty metres above the tree covered mountain tops as Sterling flew as close to the limit as her fighter would let her. As they dived and rose through the peaks Sterling saw the town of Ranford, which they quickly passed, coming out of the mountains over Chretian River heading out over the Viviane Ocean. “Heading back up†Sterling said seeing the rolling ocean ahead of her fighter the two Daggers rose in a steady climb until they were back in the upper atmosphere almost to the point where they could reach out and touch the space surrounding the world. “You will not miss me forever†she whispered looking up through the cockpit glass.
“Raven, was that for me?†Buster asked innocently she knew he'd have heard her.
“Negative, Buster, let's head back to the barn.†She said turning her fighter into a dive, she'd gotten the taste of flight back, she now needed to work out how to balance that with her new life.
Testing Accident
Illium Naval Engineering Shipyards, Ionus
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, Former, Free Worlds League
31st December 3096
After successfully being able to trade for Naval Pulse Laser technology from Clan Sea Fox the Illium Naval Engineering Shipyards of Ionus attempt to fit them to their newest Zechetinu II-class Corvette. The vessel, which is half built and lacks maneuvering engines, is towed to testing grounds near the shipyards. Initially it appears that these new weapons are able to function with the capital pulse lasers striking down several asteroids with concentrated fire. The engineers allow the systems to cool down evaluating their test results all seems fine with the ship and the weapons when they power up for a second test on this occasion a massive overload rips through the vessel's hull consuming the partially completed corvette in fire with all hands lost.
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3097
Cassandra, Fire Mandrill Primary Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
7th January 3097
Karen Able slowly wobbled her way through the crowd, arm in arm with Light Commodore Matthew Davion of the Federated Suns, as they slowly navigated the party they both had to admit they were enjoying themselves. The party was a part of the military and industrial expo the Rim Collection was putting on for interested parties and served its part in allowing high and mid-level corporate and military officers and politicians to mingle together as they debuted the Deathstalker BattleMech to the public and a new OmniVehicle which would be entering the Rim Collection's Armed Forces. The Deathstalker was a fifty ton quad design based on the Scorpion BattleMech originally designed by Clan Goliath Scorpion the design was entirely built with Clan technology with production shared between the Mandrills, Rim Collection and the Sphinx Raptors. The OmniVehicle was based on Clan technology but built with Inner Sphere grade materials and could be built at several factories across the Collection weighing in at seventy tons the vehicle, originally named Diomedes, was a design originally bought from the former-Free Worlds League and had been adapted for use in the Rim Collection as a defence tank named the Macaque.
Karen's presence here with Matthew also served to finally end the rumors of who was the father of the realm’s next Able due to arrive in another eleven weeks. They had not yet decided where their relationship would go, but so far, they found they both were still enjoying each other’s company. Still she knew Matthew Davion would ultimately decide when the time for him to leave the Collection was near; even though she'd began to hope he'd want to stay.
“It seems the Rim Collection’s new clanners are fish out of water,†Matthew joked low to her, causing her to giggle, as they passed a frustrated and flustered Justine Truscott who was the center of attention of a small group of Rim Collection politicians and businessmen and women, looking to take advantage of the endangered Sphinx Raptors. While the clan, formed from Khan Dante Truscott’s followers and bloodhouse, at the moment formed four clusters of much needed warriors and equipment, they offered little else, instead relying on the generosity of the Collection and the Mandrills to help them rebuild. Even their clusters were still understrength even after seven months of rebuilding. It would take a long, long time, for the Raptors to rebuild their society.
“And it looks as if the Mandrills are enjoying it,†she added, as she nodded in the direction of a group of Mandrill warriors at the center of a much larger group, seemingly enjoying themselves.
“That they do,†Matthew replied to his date for the night. “My government was surprised yours chose the Mandrill’s backyard this week’s festivities,†he admitted to her, finally able to go into a line of questioning he needed answered.
“More like your government still has worries about the Mandrills and their military and political power within the Collection,†Karen retorted.
“With the Cauldron of Blood incident and you and your father’s stonewalling our investigation into the matter, my government has a right to be concerned,†he replied back “Concerned enough that my princely cousin has offered to get involved,†he warned her, causing her to stop for a moment to look at him.
“I agree, privately. Publicly, I must support my father,†she relayed to him as they continued their walk among the crowd, discretely heading to the new equipment, where they could have some privacy to speak without being overheard by the other guests.
Reaching a table located near the Mech, Matthew pulled out a seat and helped Karen into it, then grabbed a seat for himself. “You know something, Karen, and you’re not telling me,†he stated after studying her for a moment.
“Enough to know the Cauldron of Blood was perhaps planned from the start by hardliners within Clan Fire Mandrill who view the agreement with the Collection as anathema and sacrilege to their society, especially with the arrival of the Sphinx Raptors and the AFFS.†She informed him a moment later.
“My god,†he replied, shock. “I can understand why you and your father have been stonewalling us.†He well knew this news could well mean the end of the not-so-quite-alliance between the Rim Collection and the Federated Suns.
“Khan Showers does wish to deal with all those involved though,†Karen continued. “Due to internal reasons, she can’t touch them, at least not yet, and my father has not the stomach to potentially anger the Mandrills by siding with what he sees as a short term ally of convenience without strong evidence.â€
“Evidence Khan Showers has, but can’t share due to the unstated internal problems,†Matthew caught on.
“Exactly,†Karen replied nodding to him as she leaned against the table. “However, if this whole matter regarding the Cauldron of Blood and how the hardliners instigated it comes to light in the press on the Federated Suns end and the First Prince publicly calls for an investigation by a third party nation while also supporting both the Mandrills and the Collection and shows he is willing to works with them still, my father and the Khan can then act against the hardliners without any issue.â€
“I see,†he replied to her, taking a long moment to mull what Karen was presenting to him, quickly seeing through his upstart lover due to how she presented a way out of it. “Clan Fire Mandrill can’t be seen as being under attack by the Mandrill rank and file and because of my and General Redburn‘s accusations going through the proper channels and the media, they see us attempting to destroy their alliance with your nation and the hardliners are fanning the fire, forcing Khan Showers to publicly support them or lose her integrity within the clan,†he surmised.
“Because the Mandrills, at least publicly, has closed ranks against us, your father cannot move against the hardliners either without appearing to be moving against the rest of the Mandrills. By that same token, he can’t move against us publicly as the Collection would lose its only external military ally it has at the moment against the Spirits, thus the stonewalling and publicly calling for evidence to back our accusations. Diplomatic nightmare, I call it,†he ended as he crossed his arms across his chest.
“Yes, quite,†Karen reluctantly agreed with him as she toyed with her dress, embarrassed at her diplomacy being so easily seen through by Matthew. “Still, it matches well with his known political agenda concerning clans,†she argued.
“Private reasons as well,†Matthew murmured, more to himself, catching Karen by surprise.
“Private reasons,†Karen asked, before her eyes darted to her pregnant belly, assuming it is their child he is talking about.
“That helps,†Matthew led her on, privately kicking himself for nearly letting out information on Burton Davion hauling a son and the former Khan of the Snow Ravens back to New Avalon. The family on New Avalon had enough issues with “the Clans†he though in a wide generalization, of course his own branch on Victoria were not so pleased with him either at the moment, to hell with it he thought he was happier here in the Collection than he had been in a while.
“If he agrees to handle the situation as you presented, what does the Federated Suns get out of it,†he asked Karen, startling her, turning her attention back to him.
“Of course,†Karen answered diplomatically. “As surkei, I believe I can get Mandrills to agree to replace the destroyed BattleMechs with ones off their lines at no cost, provided the new ones match the weight of the ones destroyed with Rampage BattleMechs replacing any destroyed Assaults.†She suggested knowing the rebuilding Fox's Teeth still needed several Mechs to complete their TO&E “of course, the next-generational BattleMech we debuted today we cannot allow in this agreement.†She waved her hand at the nearby Mech as she said the latter before placing it back on her pregnant stomach. “The Collection itself will continue to cover any medical costs to those wounded and will match the individual death benefits your nation provided for the deceased and will offer its education system for their families.†She said knowing the Federated Suns had little need to the last offer but it was worth it.
Both knew it was a respectable deal, even a great deal for the Federated Suns. “If you can get the Mandrills to agree to replace our destroyed equipment, I can get the First Prince to support the Khan,†he agreed. “otherwise he'll likely call for a full investigation by an independent body likely the MRBC†Matthew warned her.
“MRBC! Christ! Do you realize how much that’ll tick off my clanners!†she hissed at him before sighing and relaxing back in her seat. “Fine. Don’t know how this will work at the moment, but I’ll figure something out,†she grunted to him. “Now if you can help me up and escort me to Khan Showers, we can hopefully take care of this tonight,†she told him as she offered a hand out.
Getting up, he grabbed her hand, helping her out of her seat. As she took his offered arm, he led her back into the party to find the Mandrill Khan.
Planetary Assault
Necromo, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
19th January 3097
At six in the morning a group of six DropShips head into the Necromo system from far beyond the planetary system. Initially traveling at nearly 4G acceleration the ships completely avoid the naval defenders of the system diving into the atmosphere. The ships enter the atmosphere with four of the DropShips accelerating rapidly towards various cities commencing suicide runs into the cities killing thousands and the ships; which were packed with explosives exploded showering the cities in shrapnel.
The final two DropShips land on the planet deploying dozens of BattleMechs which cause further heavy damage to the planet's cities before Capellan Confederation Armed Forces defenders surround them in the planetary capital, which they had begun to dig into, there the CCAF forces eliminate them over the course of nearly three weeks of brutal fighting. Following the end of the fighting a state of emergency is declared on Necromo as few if any of the planet's towns and cities even have power, health care and other emergency services are nearly non-existent. High above the planet the Capellan Shipyards continue to function as if little had changed in the system, the attack seemingly designed to break Necromo and cause death instead of crippling the Capellan Confederation.
St Ives Command Building
St Ives, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
28th January 3097
As he entered the office he noticed Major Jaylen Davion sitting at the desk looking through a large bunch of paperwork like she had been for the last two weeks. She'd done her investigation work now it seemed she was drowning under a sea of paperwork. “Still hard at work at this hour?†He asked
“How late is it?†She asked looking up with heavy eyes.
“After nine†Tristen said he was out of uniform leaning against the door frame.
“Damn†she raising to her feet “did you see off Marco and Justin?†She asked earlier that day Tristen's cousins Marko and Justin Rubinsky had left for the NAIS intent on joining the AFFS.
“Yes we all did†he said “it was like saying goodbye to them forever†St Ives had been such a close place before joining the Federated Suns; now they all had so much opportunities.
“I know that feeling†she admitted it had been years since she had been with all her family in one place they all lived busy lives serving the Federated Suns.
“But we'll always be linkedâ€
“Through blood and tears?†She asked sometimes she felt alone she was part of the AFFS but she was a Davion, literally a daughter of the First Prince which attracted many people to the power or influence they expected her to hold.
“Other things too, any plans tonight?†He asked
“You mean of what's left of the night?†She half joked “sleep? There's a lot going onâ€
“Fancy a detour? It won't take long?†He promised her she nodded and followed him from the building they didn't go far down a couple of streets to the St Ives Memorial Museum. Because of Tristen's family connections they were allowed in hours after it had closed to the public. “This is what links us†he said looking at the many times rebuilt Centurion BattleMech Yeng lo Wang she knew that this was not the original Mech which had been destroyed when Duke Kai Allard-Liao had died in its cockpit. “Its service and its pilots service created our nation and our bond†he said “even though St Ives is now a Federated Suns world the story of this Mech and its legacy will forever bond us long after our lives have past.â€
“You know who ordered the attack on Sian†she said finally after several moments of silence looking at the fifty ton Mech.
“Yes†he admitted he'd been with her for her entire investigation and never said a word nor had he, as far as she could tell, obstructed her investigation.
“I won't stop†she said defiantly feeling more than a little deceived.
“I know†he said “Jaylen that is what drives you, it's what links you to your brothers and sisters a spirit that goes beyond the distance of space or the passing of lives, you all believe that there is nothing that can stop you.†He said looking at her then back to the Yeng Lo Wang replica “that's what drives us.â€
“Fifty tons of metal and myomer?†She asked dismissively
“The idea that a single man or machine can make a difference.†He said finally
“And your difference is to stop me uncovering the truth?â€
“I will not hinder you in any way, Major, however I will not point you at them or their graves either.†He said formally turning away from the Mech.
“Where are you going?†She asked not moving
“I cannot in good conscience remain as your aide during this investigation; and you cannot trust me not to lead you astray. I wished you to understand†he said looking at the Mech “family means a great deal to us on these worlds.â€
“Family means a great deal to me as well†she admitted “the investigation is closed, Tristen, I closed it this afternoon†she explained “I suspected that there was those within the St Ives commands hiding who was responsible; or at least protecting their memory.†She said she hadn't thought it had risen as far as Tristen however it didn't completely take her by surprise “New Avalon wishes to know that this will not happen again?†Tristen nodded there wasn't enough supporters of the movement who were well enough placed left alive to ensure anything further could happen as they wished. “Then it is done with, ensuring that New Avalon starts a future war with the Capellans is all they want.†She said “how about dinner?†She asked she had no need to be alone tonight.
“Excellent idea I know the perfect place, Major†he said offering her his arm.
“Stop calling me that†she said slipping her arm in his.
“Yes Duchessâ€
“Tristen...â€
“Jaylen†he finally said using her name like he had a hundred times before.
“Shut up and walkâ€
“Yes boss†he said laughing with her as they finally made their way away from the silent fifty ton Mech.
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Nice update! So the CC government can show any love to the population of Necromo?
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Nice update! So the CC government can show any love to the population of Necromo?
They'd better
Less politics more intelligence and mystery
Graduation Ceremony
Thorin University, Thorin
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
8th February 3097
At the graduation ceremony of Thorin University Dana Carlyle daughter of the Baron von Glengarry Alexander Carlyle and his wife Samantha Logan-Carlyle becomes a qualified medical doctor. Ignoring a string of offers from Lyran Commonwealth and Isle of Skye hospitals and research facilities to instead accept a position at a facility on Terra.
Lyran Intelligence Reports
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
13th February 3097
From imbedded spies in the Wolf Occupation Zone and from scouting patrols the Lyran Commonwealth assess that the worlds of Rasalgethi, Fort Loudon and Kelenfold have been completely abandoned by Clan Wolf. Acting quickly LCAF, Clan Mountain Wolf and supporting mercenary forces are dispatched to the planets confirming little to no resistance as each is liberated within hours.
Further scouting discovers that Udea and Karbala, both previously Wolf holdings are in the hands of the Rasalhague Dominion while Clan Jade Falcon has captured Cusset, Blota and Montmarault. The remaining four “Wolf†border worlds are occupied by Clan Coyote forces which up until now had been considered to be the Wolves “junior†partner in the Occupation Zone scouting forces to each of the worlds find them heavily occupied.
Fourth Ceti Hussars LCT Command
Argyle, Crucis March
Federated Suns
20th February 3097
Continuing to show his unconventional streak Leftenant-General Duke Fredrick Davion, commander of the Fourth Ceti Hussars LCT, marries his long term girlfriend Nikki White a former Kruger Combat Car driver. The two had barely been engaged for a week before their wedding they had served together during Fredrick's initial combat operations. With little hesitation or break Fredrick continues to form his new LCT.
Interstellar News Network Report
Skye, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
25th February 3097
The news reporter Vivian Lambert stood in front of the Tri-Vid camera attempting to keep a composed face beside her stood Isle of Skye Leader Duke Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Vivian Lambert and am here with the leader of the Isle of Skye.†She said Robert Kelswa-Steiner nodded to the camera “over the last three days reports have filtered in that a mass of WarShips and JumpShips, believed to be those of Clan Wolf, have been seen within the Isle of Skye. Duke Kelswa-Steiner can you confirm or deny these rumours?â€
“Unfortunately I can.†He said looking at the camera “it is with a heavy heart that I can announce that at 08:00 hours standard time the Hyperion-classs Heavy Cruiser LCS Barcelona was engaged and destroyed by Clan WarShips believed to be the Montbatton and Jerome Winson at a pirate point in the Freedom system at present we believe that all hands have been lost.â€
“Do we know how this engagement happened? Where did the Wolves come from?â€
“We are unsure where they came from. It appears that they were double jumping through the system when a K-F Drive from a Monolith-class JumpShip broke. Personnel and equipment were transfering between vessels when the Barcelona arrived near them.†He explained “we believe that the two Clan WarShips out maneuvered the Barcelona†he said raising his hands side by side “their weapons destroyed our vessel before they completed their operations and abandoned the system.â€
“Do we know where they are bound?†Vivian Lambert asked nervously
“Current reports suggest they could be heading towards Skye or Hesperus II†the Duke said calmly “the Isle of Skye will resist these Clan invaders with all our might. We will work with Lyran state units and with those of our Star League allies and we will be victorious. Let these Clanners know that we will use all the weapons in our arsenal to oppose them including our nuclear deterrent.†He warned
“Tharkad has released the use of nuclear weapons?†Vivian Lambert asked knowing that Skye had possession of nuclear weapons but that Tharkad had control over their launch codes.
“Tharkad will not stand in the way of our defence.â€
“And with the eight nuclear weapons that Skye has do you believe that you Clan stop the Clan advance.†She asked she had sources well placed in the Isle of Skye command which had passed the information.
“We will use all weapons to destroy these alien Clans. Now you must excuse me†he said walking off the camera.
“There you have it. People of the Lyran Commonwealth we are once again united by the threat of the Clans. Any sightings of any Clan activity is to reported to your local LCAF Office, no report will be turned away, we must work together to stop the Clans. This is Vivian Lambert for Interstellar News Network on Skye†She said finally as the camera faded to black. Across the Lyran Commonwealth and the Inner Sphere nerves were being frayed as the threat of the Clans and the apparent move by Clan Wolf became apparent to more than those who lived on the clan borders.â€
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New vehicle of the AU the Macaque
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/macaque/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/macaque/)
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Broken News Reports
Lyran Commonwealth
Draconis Combine
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
7th March 3097
Across the Lyran Commonwealth, Draconis Combine and Marik-Stewart Commonwealth a series of attacks occur almost at the same standard time. In each case Hyper Pulse Generators are attacked by either Battle Armour, Armoured vehicle or aerospace fighter. Several reports indicated that these attacks were initiated by neighbouring states however all the attacks used Clan equipment. This knowledge keeps reprisal attacks to a minimum as few of the Inner Sphere states believe that local units have enough Clan technology to pull off these attacks.
In most cases the attacks were a complete success with the attack being over before local defences could react in two cases: one on the Draconis Combine world of Kessel and the other on Laiaka in the Isle of Skye local defences are able to stop the attackers from completing their goals. In both cases the attackers fight until they are killed however post combat analysis and autopsy's on the pilots suggests that these warriors were originally from Clan Wolf all are in their late forties beyond the norms of front-line combat troops.
For the Clans such a move is considered dishonourable however Clan Wolf has a track record of being unpredictable. With further reports that Clan WarShips and JumpShips are using uninhabited systems to avoid local defences and with nearly a dozen HPGs destroyed in the attacks the entire Inner Sphere is on edge.
Later analysis of the attacks would suggest that Clan Wolf was behind all the attacks having sneaked the warriors and equipment into position under the guise of mercenary units transferring between commands. This leads the Isle of Skye and Draconis Combine to initiate stronger controls over units not under their control moving across their borders. In the Isle of Skye all foreign units, including those under SLDF or LCAF High Command control, are required to submit to inspection on an Isle of Skye controlled planet before continuing their journey.
In the confusion an Invader-class JumpShip was destroyed by the LCS Arthur Steiner-Davion in the Hesperus II system as the JumpShip failed to transmit the correct security authorization. Several naval autocannon blasts ripped through the JumpShip and its attending DropShips resulting in the complete loss of life of all those on-board.
Clan Raids
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
12th March 3097
Intent on showing that they are not purely holding onto Clan Wolf's territory Clan Coyote launch a series of raids in force against the worlds of Ballymore, Pandora, Crimond and Fort Loudon. The Coyotes have little to no intention of taking the planets they attack instead they show that they are intent on showing that they are capable of holding back the other Clans and threatening the Lyran Commonwealth. During the attacks the Coyotes use a new OmniMech dubbed the Trickster a new Medium OmniMech. Slower than normal Clan medium designs the Trickster has a larger than normal payload in several of the configurations. With its large payload several of the configurations mount large weapons capable of tearing Mechs of similar size to piece.
The Mall
Kestrel, Kestrel Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
17th March 3097
The Crucis March world of Kestrel had always been a beautiful world, even after the Draconis Combine attacks of the Second Succession War, with rolling hills and beautiful cities. Down the main Mall a battalion sized Mech unit moved passed the gathered crowds on the Mech's chest was the emblems of the the First Kestrel Grenadiers Regiment. The unit had been inactive on the AFFS rolls for nearly a decade but now with the Duke of Kestrel's financial backing the unit had been reformed with plans to expand it to a full regiment before the end of the year. Despite funding the Regiment with his family's own money, ever the patriot, Duke Robert Cunningham announces that the reformed Kestrel Grenadiers would be joining the AFFS.
I forgot this part :-[ ;D the original scene didn't work reading it over again I wasn't happy with it so here it is from the top
Royal Wedding, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
24th March 3097
In front of hundreds of guests Burton Davion and Sterling McKenna stood taking their vows of marriage all of the guests knew of Sterling's heritage but they had accepted the Prince's choice. To one side First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and his wife Danai Centrella-Davion stood with Burton's brother's and sisters the only one missing was Jaylen Davion who was still on AFFS assignment on St Ives. Everything had gone well the custom had been nearly completely unknown to Sterling but with a little coaching from Sarah and Danai she had made it through the proceedings. There had been several low flying aircraft pass over the palace early in the ceremony but since there had been no alarm bells Burton guessed that it was most likely the pilots Sterling had been flying with recently giving her the send off she deserved. Many of the pilots had taken to the former Snow Raven as if she was one of their own Burton guessed that once you were a pilot it didn't really matter where you came from it way all about the flying.
“Should anyone have anything to say that would stop these two being wed speak now†the minister said they had been sworn to marriage by the Unfinished Book as Burton's father and grandfather had been everything had gone well until now. At the rear of the chambers suddenly there was a very audible crack as the two large doors opened. All eyes suddenly turned towards the doors as they opened in stepped a large figure dressed in the traditional robes and head piece of Clan Snow Raven.
“Seriously??†Burton said under his breath the figure who was most likely an Elemental was flanked by two troopers dressed in Infiltrator III Heavy Battle Armour he guessed that the aircraft he had heard had been this person's arrival, subtle he thought. Around the room Burton could see the First Davion Guard Bodyguard Unit moving into positions to get the best shot on the figure even so if this turned nasty Burton knew that members of the congregation would be caught in the resulting crossfire even unarmoured an Elemental could take a lot of fire before going down.
“I will speak†a voice said from under the robe from the sound the Prince could tell it was a male “Sterling, we need to talk†his deep booming voice said. Burton turned fully taking a step forward but it was Sterling herself who spoke.
“Neg, we do not†she answered looking at the man he was Turner McKenna the head of the McKenna Bloodhouse “my previous life is done this is my future.†She said raising her arms looking at Burton and then at her son Luther who was cradled in Sarah Davion's arms.
“Then I will announce this here. I came here today knowing that I would likely not return to our Clan. I can now announce that you will no longer be known as Sterling McKenna you have been stripped of your bloodname by order of the Clan Council.†Sterling glanced at Burton who nodded for her to continue.
“No, I am Sterling Davion†she said “my future is my own Turner. This will not be your final act Turner, if you have done this House no wrong today other than this interuption with my blessing, you will be allowed to return to the Snow Ravens with a message.†Sterling said glancing at Victor Steiner-Davion who followed his son's choice and allowed her to continue. “I am no threat to the Snow Ravens, the Federated Suns is not a threat to the Snow Ravens, we are separate. There is enough chaos in our lives but we can live in peace. The choice is yours.†She said turning back towards the minister alongside Burton. “Continue†she said
“Are there any others who wishes to speak?†He asked worried that there would be another interruption when there was none “I now pronounce you man and wife†he said “you may kiss the bride†he said Burton and Sterling turned to each other and were soon locked in an embrace as those gathered cheered and applauded as they witnessed the beginning of a new era for the Federated Suns.
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The Trickster Quad OmniMech
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/trickster-quad-omnimech/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/trickster-quad-omnimech/)
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More thanks for this timeline this time from me to Blackhorse 6 who kind of took a step in a direction I was heading and did a better job at it with me.
Iniki's Stormtroopers Basecamp
New Exford, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd April 3097
A battle wary Colonel Jameson Iniki crossed the tarmac following the battle meeting with Colonel Tyler Sutherland the Lyran commander of the garrison on New Exford. “Not normally how I like to start a new contract†the dark skinned mercenary said as he approached.
“The Jade Falcons do like to keep us on our toes Colonel. If your troops had not landed before the Falcons it could have been a far worse result. How were your losses?â€
“Three Battle Armour troopers are dead and two of my Mechs are unrecoverable fortunately their pilots are still alive; although they have a few new bumps and bruises.†He said light losses considering the fight they had been in. Several of his remaining Mechs were heavily damaged but they were repairable as part of the Stormtroopers contract with the Lyran Commonwealth the mercenaries were allowed to claim back what they had lost during combat.
“There are plenty of destroyed Falcon Mechs out there when your people are settled you can look them over.â€
“Thank you Colonel I plan to do just thatâ€
“Very good, your command has defence duties over the south west quarter. I'll have my aide Leutenant Heister pass you the details.â€
“Thank you†the mercenary replied
“I hope your people are ready for the Falcons Colonel Iniki they have been getting mighty restless recently.†Sutherland explained
“We are Colonel we wouldn't have accepted the contract otherwise.â€
Royal Announcement
Oriente, Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
13th April 3097
A news report circulates that Jonas Halas, the Captain-General or the Oriente Protectorate, had been involved in an affair with a member of Le Grand Cloche Mercenary Command who had been hired to protect his children and family. Further news quickly spreads that Jonas wife has left her husband at the Halas residence for “time.â€
A week later Le Grande Cloche are escorted from Oriente space by Oriente military forces Jonas Halas announces that an entire Battle Armour Battalion of Oriente's best and brightest will be provided to the protection of his children and wife despite their current separation.
New Yorkshire Barony, Baroness’ Estate Guest Apartments
New Yorkshire, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th March 3097
“… and this, this is what we are looking forward to? I swear the whole of the Davion nobility has gone straight to hell. A clanner? A malfing clanner? I mean we prayed for another Hanse and what happens? Victor has been a passably good leader but even he habitually drags you out to fix his messes and gives you no credit whatsoever. But Burton, that imbecile keeps making one mess after another and with both Marches in disarray, they pull you from Tikonov to stand there and give some semblance of unity to this unmitigated fiasco. The average citizen is near ready to oust them from the palace, they are celebrating the possibility of a new war while the Marches continue to burn. My God, what ever happened to royalty with a sense of class, I mean sure, it’s changed even from when we were raised and in how I wanted our children raised… especially our daughters, but this whole stupid marriage... are you even listening to me?â€
In truth, Duke Paul Ryan-Bowman had really not paid all that much attention during the trip back to his sister’s estate in New Yorkshire. The pacing back and forth while venting her indignity this last hour had come as a relief from the worries he himself had these past eighteen months. After forty-two years of marriage, not much his wife could say would be a surprise at this point. If anything, Duchess Alexandra Ryan-Bowman set new standards for being opinionated, but then most women from Achernar seemed to share this trait. Hence the quiet and mostly attentive reaction he had come to give her throughout their years together wasn’t always what she wanted. This early morning of all times, it actually infuriated her.
The Duke sat quietly considering the look she was giving him now that she had stopped pacing the apartment’s bedroom. Odds were a dress shoe would be inbound at any moment but as she returned his gaze, her expression changed. He knew at that moment she had read through his usually nonchalant persona and caught his buried concerns.
“You aren’t telling me something and it has to do with, what, those reports we have been working on doesn’t it?†Despite his best smile, he knew she was on to him and closed his eyes. He could feel her move to sit on the arm of the chair beside him.
“Yes. I finally have the bottom line to the AFFS unit manning reports and it’s worse than we had hoped, much worse than even I thought possible. The possibility of a CapCon attack in five years is almost inevitable, that and our ability to counter attack or retake lost worlds in such an event are severely curtailed.†Opening his eyes, he sighed, “In short, if we are subjected to any further military losses, we could lose a good deal of our planets to our neighbors. In this event, the damage to the Suns would almost certainly be permanent.â€
Alexandra reacted in horror at the admission while tilting Paul’s head up to look him in the eyes. “I thought that with increased admissions and BattleMech outputs, combined with more armored and infantry formations, what we proposed would balance the AFFS back in five to ten years?†He frowned and shook his head from side to side. Taking her hands in his he kissed them and wrapped them in his.
“With this latest round of Robinson March adventurism factored in, well… we are looking at a best case of fifteen years just to bring enough combat material back to our line units to reach the AFFS strength levels of 3085. Not that the machines and weapons really matter in and of itself at this point. I figure at best, we will need thirty to forty years just to have enough MechWarriors in the field and not in training. As we both know, that hasn’t happened since we graduated from NAMA during the height of the Clan Invasion. My darling, we are facing a critical juncture in the history of the Federated Suns, so we must do what we were raised and trained to do: secure our borders with force if necessary and protect the citizenry at all cost.†The Duchess nodded solemnly and spoke dryly, “Well isn’t it nice that our children are spread across five worlds and on each one they have titles of nobility… what else can be done to protect our people?â€
Paul considered his next words with deliberate intent before speaking.
“There are always the options we thought unthinkable but I am of Tikonov by birth and by right. We gather our families and all of our peoples we can and move them to Kitezh; which far away, it would take generations of the enemy looking for them to be found.†Alexandra considered that thought in silence, though it was obvious she considered that a last resort.
“That in and of itself is not as glorious in dying for one’s nationâ€, Paul continued, “but in the event the Suns is lost, a new arrangement would need to be made… possibly amalgamating the surviving Marches with another nation. We still have some pull now that Jamison and Samantha are married, not to mention Lizzie would love to have us.†This time Alexandra’s look of quiet resignation told him she at least considered those options to be an improvement.
Biting her lip, she ventured into the most treasonous option, “A change in the leadership may be necessary to prevent the destruction of the Federated Suns and its people. Could we do something so reprehensible should it become absolutely necessary?†Her husband nodded adding his thoughts, “I would rather be remembered as a traitor who usurped Hanse’s throne than as a historical footnote for failing to protect his homeland from its mortal enemies. At least if I’m remembered, there will still be a Federated Suns.â€
Duchess Alexandra smiled thinly at her husband. “Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that, you know I look terrible in black.â€
Gaming Signing in Board
Solaris VII, Lyran Commonwealth
Star League Protectorate
28th April 3097
Moving past the other pilots in the meeting hall Ariana Steiner wasn't at all impressed she didn't consider any of them to be warrior until she saw them in combat Elizabeth McCarron had ordered her to take some personal time. How she spent that time was entirely up to her.
“Name?†man behind the signing in board asked
“Ariana†she said keeping her surname a secret for as long as possible would make her time on Solaris a lot easier
“Surname?†He asked
“Just Arianaâ€
“Ariana the Aggressor?†the announcer asked obviously thinking that it sounded better than just a simple “Ariana.â€
“Whatever†she said not bothered either way.
“BattleMech type?â€
“A Warhawkâ€
“A War...†the man stuttered “you mean a Masakari?†He asked using the Inner Sphere's name for the Clan design.
“Yes†Ariana confirmed
“You a Clanner?†He asked fishing for more information.
“Neg†she joked using the Clan reply
“You kill a Clanner for the Mech?â€
“What do you think?†She said refusing to give any information.
“Mysterious Ariana†he said trying out another name “either way the Clanner Mech or the Clanner Killer will make you a target.†He explained
“Will make it fun then. When can I fight?â€
“The next game is in the Factory in three days time†he said looking at the charts “think you can wait that long?â€
“Sure gives these pilots†she said raising her voice “sometime to live before meeting a true MechWarrior in combat†she said. “Put me in†she confirmed before walking from the room with little surprise that the warriors around her parted as she marched out.
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Hey, that's my Stormtroopers from your Merc Unit challenge
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Hey, that's my Stormtroopers from your Merc Unit challenge
There were no winners or losers to that challenge - I plan to use just about everything that was submitted - if anyone has anything else feel free to add to the thread or PM me with the details I can always use extra units.
This update shows how much of a Collective Effort this timeline has become so I would like to thank:
Blackhorse 6 - Ryan-Bowman story line
James Tanaga - Rim Collection little addition (if you'll pardon the pun)
marauder648 - for the Leviathan salvage operation
I've molded their work to fit the timeline but they deserve as much credit as I do.
I hope everyone enjoys the update.
AFFS High Command Briefing, Fox's Den
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
1st May 3097
The worlds of the Federated Suns flickered silently in air. The holographic images projected by the Fox's Den TactiCon System cast colored images across the faces of the assembled commanders. In the ten minutes it took him to speak, the Duke of the Crucis March had managed to silence even the most verbose skeptics under the impact of the data provided - checked, rechecked and lastly, lamented. Upon conclusion of his brief, Duke Paul Ryan-Bowman returned to his seat as the rest of those assembled turned to the First Prince for his lead on the way ahead.
Prince Victor nodded his concurrence at what he had seen and coincidentally had feared as true. He regarded the NAMA war game projections playing out and knew he had seen the plan once before, a plan proposed and implemented by one of his own relatives but with more recent considerations and an unforeseen twist.
“Duke Paul, I have seen the first part of your proposal once before, when I was a cadet at the Nagelring. I believe Archon Alessandro Steiner referred to the plan as the “Concentrated Weakness†strategy. This second part, the… uhh… ‘Sword Teams’, now that is new. Are you proposing that we adapt both concurrently for our defense of the Federated Suns?â€
The Duke rose to his feet standing on the Prince’s left side. “I am my Prince, in the stages indicated, with the Capellan and Draconis Marches being the first tier of defense and the Crucis March second tier. As any incursion would necessitate the release of forces for war, those of the Crucis March will need to be held in garrison for immediate movement to the front lines of either March. Unlike the original plan developed at the start of this century, we have one decisive edge over either Succession State enemy – our Navy, only the Nova Cats and Snow Ravens can out number us. Consequently unlike Alessandro’s era, we have the ability to strike and devastate on a planetary scale. Should it become necessary, I propose that we level the military staging and industrial capacity of our opponents with orbital bombardment. Light Commodore Matthew Davion has had remarkable insights in this area; I believe he has several new developments that we would find invaluable when he returns from assignment in the Rim Collection.â€
“Are you mad? The Star League will intervene against us for doing this just once, much less multiple timesâ€, came the reply from Marshal of the Armies, Sora Higginson. “There is a buffer zone enforced by the SLDF to stop any more Capellan adventurism for the foreseeable future. Unlike the rest of what the Duke proposes, you cannot seriously entertain this part of the plan my Prince, its pure foolishness now as it was during the Succession Wars, we cannot allow ourselves to devolve as low to employ orbital bombardment and Weapons of Mass Destruction as a common tactic.†She said passionately looking around the room “I believe the Duke is overestimating the threat the Capellans present to us and I know that we can stop the Combine from making further inroads to our space using tactics we have long perfected not tactics that leave millions and worlds dead.â€
Duke Paul shut off the projector and leaned forward on the table, staring past Victor at Sora. “I hope you are right Marshal, if the SLDF stays involved, the timeline to rearm will be quicker.†He wasn't convinced the SLDF had anyone's interests at heart except their own. “However, we need to rebuild if you have a better plan then I’d love to hear it. For the last eighteen months we have lost ground in two Marches and now, now we may have the Raven Alliance ready to take a swipe at us. We are force depleted from these latest misadventures and understrength, both in BattleMechs and MechWarriors. So severely in fact the best idea your command came up with was to create LCTs and not rebuild our traditional RCTs.†He said staring down the Marshal of Armies “oh and as for the LCT concept, the Wild Geese created Squadrons almost forty years ago, so nice job copying my work.†He said he knew she wasn't the architect behind the Light Combat Team, that had been Galen Cox, but she had expanded the idea. “Now if you seriously think that we are fooling anyone, anywhere about our weaknesses you are sadly mistaken. So unless you can conjure up about twenty veteran BattleMech regiments to solve this dilemma…†At this Marshal Higginson turned red and started to stand.
“Enough both of you!†growled Prince Victor, “Duke Paul is right and we all know it the miss-adventures, as he puts it, have weakened the Marchs returning all the March forces to RCTs will result in one thing – exactly the same situation all over again. He pointed out he had little to no trust in either the Draconis or Capellan March lords at present. “Sora, you used almost everything not nailed down in reconstituting the Third Davion Guards last year even with production we're replacing losses little else. We, all of us, are here to find a way to get this nation back where it needs to be.†He said Paul smiled much to the distaste of the Marshal of Armies “However, Sora is also right†the First Prince said “I will not order our navy to employ the tactics used during the Succession Wars. We have the capability we do not need to use it. We can show that WarShips can defend and support our people not just destroy entire planets!†He said raising his voice the naysayers of the Navy and its massive cost often pointed out that WarShips could only destroy planets unlike BattleMechs which could capture and hold them. “Now, please explain this ‘Sword Team’ idea that will assist in doing just this.â€
“Simply my Prince? Step one, we reduce budgetary authorizations for BattleMech production by fifteen percent for the next ten years and shift to armor and battle armor training.†Duke Paul caught the gasps and grumbles of the others but continued on. “Two, we create new armor and battle armor formations from those March Militias and local units. We augment them with the latest graduates and material from the academies. Three, we train them to the limits of their capabilities for six months, then assign them into armor brigades. This will improve the fighting levels of all units the Sword Teams join, so we can create battalions and regiments of better than average crews and infantrymen, we split them out of the formations and start again. Outcome? This will compensate for the more inexperienced ‘Mech units we are fielding now by giving the MechWarriors time enough to develop their skills.â€
Victor smiled suddenly as the plan played out in his head. “So, while we rebuild using armored crews and battle armor infantry in the short term,†Victor mused, “we trade the ‘Mech role with them and slowly reverse over the next fifteen years? ‘13 seems like a long way off… but we also improve active and March forces in the process, while developing a better trained core of MechWarriors, time permitting. If we need to move troops forward, then they would be better skilled than they are currently…â€
Marshal Higginson rechecked her figures and projections with caution. “It could work, it actually could work.†Victor regarded this as a good sign, as well as the positive comments from the others. Several were now leaned forward and actively engaged in smaller conversations and planning points. Smiling he nodded to Duke Paul a silent thank you for his assistance they were a long way from being ready. “However I would suggest less of a drastic cut to Mech production†she said continuing almost speaking to herself as she made a couple of alterations before sending the new statistics to the AFFS Commanders. “Instead we cut WarShip production in half†she said hearing a couple of gasps the new WarShip fleet was a great source of pride for the FSN “we already have a WarShip fleet that can hold its own against all our neighbours. Even cutting production we can still stay ahead of the Capellans comfortably and we know that the Combine cannot concentrate its forces, due to the Rasalhague Dominion and Raven Alliance, we can.†Paul looked at the figures he wasn't entirely convinced Sora was right but the boosted Mech Production would take two or three years off his estimates to rebuild regiments and commands.
“I believe that this contingency plan of yours will work and we will implement it as our plan ahead backed by Admiral Forester's plan to create WarShip squadrons.†He said remarking on one of the senior Admiral's ideas the Federated Suns had a strong naval arm concentrating it against threats was something that was long overdue. “You know,†Victor began as he followed the others movements, leaning forward in his chair too. “many times in the past we haven’t always seen eye to eye, but you have proven invaluable to this nation time and time again Duke Bowman I personally thank you.â€
“My Prince, the answer is simple, you returned me and my family to our world. Tikonovans are practical people, as you well know. I could rule the Suns with Alexandra's help†he said carefully seeing distaste at the statement from many but Victor's expression did not change “but the people want and need you and your family. The Federated Suns is its people, the Federated Suns is House Davion, and the Federated Suns is not House Ryan-Bowman.†He said continuing when Victor remained silent “my wife and I know your family’s wrongs and mistakes, I know you know my families mistakes, yet we choose to stay side-by-side for who you are now, not who you were before.â€
“It’s a certainty that you have always have been there,†said Victor “any regrets?â€
Duke Paul replied sadly, “I’d ask my niece Pamela that question, if I could…â€
Clan Border Fighting
Arc-Royal Theatre, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
2nd May 3097
A series of heavy raids by Clan Jade Falcon strike at the Lyran Commonwealth. In each case the Kell Hounds and Clan Mountain Wolf along with allied mercenary forces move to counter them. The fighting on Great X claims two Mountain Wolf Clusters in exchange one of the Jade Falcon's best units is destroyed in the fighting with the defenders holding the ground to remain in control of the planet.
Similarly on Graceland the Second Kell Hounds Regiment and two small mercenary commands are virtually destroyed as they face off against two front-line Jade Falcon commands. Despite the damage they do the Jade Falcons are unable to break the mercenaries and are forced into retreat. With the Second Regiment destroyed the survivors are folded into the First Kell Hounds making it a reinforced regiment. With Akira Brahe's recent retirement of Akira Brahe the seventy-one year old Christian Kell, formerly commander of the Second Regiment, becomes commander of the reinforced First Kell Hounds Regiment however Christian already has plans for his successor with Katrina Allard and his own son Jeremy Kell waiting in the wings for command. Between the two Jeremy is the older and more experienced however Katrina is Megan Kell's daughter and “heir†to the ownership of the Hounds.
Medical Facility
Greene, Timbuktu
Rim Collection
5th May 3097
Nearly ten days late Victoria Able is born at a medical facility on Timbuktu after her mother had insisted on travelling to inspect the Fourth Rim Lancers CCT. The first child of Karen Able and Matthew Davion both mother and child come through the birth in healthy condition. Within hours it is reported that President Jerry Able and Matthew Davion are enroute to the planet to visit the new additions to the Able family.
Launching Ceremony
Titan Shipyards, Sol System
Star League Protectorate
15th May 3097
During the height of the original Star League-era the SLDF had tried and failed to produce a Super-carrier-class of vessel. The Enterprise-class had been one of the Star League's great failures and eventually the only failed prototype had been dragged into the Sol System asteroid belt and left to rot. Now the new SLDF was trying to succeed where its predecessor had failed and the first day had gone particularly well.
Unlike the original SLDF the new Star League had a few hundred years of research and development behind it as well as the advances that the Clans had made. Also unlike their predecessors the new SLDF designers had built a new prototype hull devoid of weapons or systems instead testing the engines and systems. The new “Enterprise†coasted gracefully from Titan shipyards under its own power making a single gravity's accelerated orbit around the facility before returning to the docks. Built deep into the hull the new WarShip Anti-Missile System, Lithium Fusion Battery Mk II, Naval Comm Scanner Suits and Naval C3 systems had all been built directly into the hull on construction none were fully operational yet but once they were and the ships weapons had been added the new SLS Enterprise would be one of the most capable WarShips in existence. Engineers expected the fitting out process to take another two to three years followed by another three to five years for the WarShip to be combat ready.
To cater for the Enterprise and her planned six sister ships aerospace fighter production facilities had begun to stockpile surplus production for the SLDF instead of selling it onto the Succession Stated and they had begun to expand their facilities to match large fighter capacity. Even with the SLDF fleet supporting it and the new WAMS installed in the Carrier's heart the SLDF knew that the big ships would be vulnerable to enemy weapons especially nuclear weapons. To counter this threat the SLDF had begun plans to build a new range of “Pocket WarShips†which would be permenantly assigned to the vessels as escorts.
Rasalhague Salvage Operation
Rasalhague, Rasalhague Dominion
24th May 3097
Even at the multi-kilometre distance the dead, lifeless hulk of the seventeen hundred metre long Rasalhague was impressive. Her flank was torn and ravaged in the battle with the Perigrad Zalman, which had been totally written off by the Ghost Bears as salvage, with the black marks of weapon impacts covering the hull where it had not been penetrated. The sickening damage showed up clearly under powerful floodlights built into the noses of the shuttles. “There appears to be little in the way of debris in orbit around her, she has got a slow port roll but not enough to generate any form of gravity.†The pilot said.
“Any power readings?†Star Commander Dixon asked
“Neg, there are no power readings at all, and no other thermal signatures, the Rasalhague is cold and dead.â€
“Understood, let the salvage parties know they are go for docking.â€
“Aff Sir.â€
Six boarding shuttles slowly approached the slowly spinning hulk. There had been concerns that with her great size that fires would still be burning inside the Rasalhague but it appeared that her hull had been opened to space and that there was no oxygen for them to feed off. This of course meant that the salvage teams would need to operate in shifts in their Aerie PA(L)’s until the hull was sealed and life support restored but there was three dozen teams aboard the Legacy-class Yardship Orestes which was enroute to assist with operations. Once she arrived there would be hundreds of men and women dedicated to restoring power and life to the mighty battleship that had given her all in the defence of the world she was named after.
When it was discovered that whilst her hull was ravaged and would likely need years of repair, the ship was still structurally sound and intact the Khan had decreed that the Rasalhague be salvaged. Whilst there were some grumbles about the cost from the civilians it was also seen as being a boost for jobs in system as orbital facilities would be working overtime to produce the hull plating whilst computers, wiring and other internal systems could be made at other systems within the Dominion, increasing revenue when it was most needed. Ultimately the Rasalhague would likely have to be moved to the Alshian Shipyards for her final repairs.
Nearly eight hours later the salvage crews had still not explored the length of the vessel their progress hindered by the discovery of intact docking hatches. Unable to enter the main docking bays the crews had been forced to make multiple entry points spreading across the length of the tumbling wreck.
“Hatch is secure! Stand by for depressurization.â€
The twenty-five Aerie armoured salvagers ensured their mag-boots were active as the air was pumped out of their pressure bay. The sounds of the shuttle, the soft rumble of its engines was replaced with silence only filled by the sounds of breathing within the armour.
“Opening hatch now…â€
The pressure-door on the other side within the Rasalhague had blown, all that was left of it was a mangled lump of misshapen metal, the corridor beyond was utterly dark but in seemingly good condition, some spar’s of metal had collapsed and there was some wall plate buckling.
“Alpha Point with me, Beta Point try and head aft to the tertiary reactor controls and update me on what you find there keep an eye out for unexploded munitions people, even WarShips occasionally fire a dud.†He cautioned them. “The rest of you take separate corridors, we do not need to be bottled up, see what we have here.â€
“Aff, Star Commander.â€
Splitting into their individual points they headed towards their targets deeper within the ship. The deeper they went the more pronounced the damage became. Some bodies were found, burned, crushed or void frozen, all wearing the emblem of the Dominion at their breast it would be enough to turn many people's stomach. When the ship was fully explored the bodies would have to be disposed of with the honour and respect they deserved.
“Epsilon Point One reporting, we have reached the main spinal corridor, there is a lot of debris here, it appears that this section was struck by some heavy ordinance, two hundred meters from my position we have a significant hull breach, the hull plates are melted indicating a PPC or laser penetration.â€
“Theta Point One reporting, we are en-route to the primary magazine, we are having to cut through fire doors as they were all sealed in this sector.â€
“Delta Point One reporting, we have reached primary fire control for the port forward battery, the section is open to space, I can see the Rasalhague star above my head.†The Point commander reported Dixon could hear the sense of awe in his voice, there was little else more spectacular than looking into open space.
“Understood, continue your investigation and keep an eye on your oxygen supplies, I do not want to add more corpses to those aboard this ship.†He warned the Aerie Power Armour suit had extended life support systems giving them extra time on the hulk.
“Aff, Star Commander†came the multitude of replies.
Climbing or cutting through wreckage that blocked their path the Salvage teams worked deeper into the ship, It took two hours for Alpha Point to reach their target and all five Clansmen stood in silence for a moment.
The bridge was a unlike the rest of the ship, not a wreck. Buried deep within the Rasalhague’s hull in a reflection of ancient surface ships command centres it was a target that was near impossible to hit, surrounded by thick armour as well as multiple fire doors and bulkheads, but all were open. Still strapped into their chairs the command crew of the Rasalhague had their heads bowed as if in prayer, a side effect of rigor making muscles tense, hence the slightly curled position.
“They stayed at their posts, why not abandon ship?â€
“You saw the fire damage we had to get through two decks down, there was no way past that inferno.†Dixon said quietly
“Yet the fire doors were all open Quiaff?â€
“Aff…so why did it not reach here?†One of the boarders checked a corpse.
“They vented their air, depressurized the ship to kill the fires but to do so would require someone to do it from here. “
“Their ship was doomed, they could not escape, they gave their lives so that she might be salvageable, it explains why the whole ship is depressurized, they vented all the atmosphere and then opened what doors they could.†Dixon said he understood what the crew had done and he respected them, in their place given the choice he would have much rather died of asphyxiation than having being burned alive. The Rasalhague had gone through a lot but she still had a long journey ahead of her before being returned to service.
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Very nice update! Thanks to all the writers for the additional fiction! Keep it up!
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A little extra before a new update - Star League Intelligence Report WarShip Construction
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/star-league-intelligence-report-warship-production-3097/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/star-league-intelligence-report-warship-production-3097/)
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Uninhabited system, Nova Cat fleet
Taurian Concordat
Periphery
9th June 3097
Transiting between the Nova Cat's Den and Davetal III was often a dangerous trip for the Nova Cat merchants and warriors with the Taurian Concordat defenders intent on stopping them supplying the garrison on their occupied colony. During a trip from the Nova Cat's Den to Davetal III a Nova Cat Merchant Carrack vessel escorting four JumpShips is ambushed by two squadrons of Foxhound Small Craft and their supporting assault DropShips.
The Merchant Carrack Guiding Vision lacked the naval firepower of its Military Transport cousin but still had more than enough firepower to cut down the majority of the Taurian aggressors. Unfortunately they were unable to destroy them all and two of the Nova Cat JumpShips and their crews were destroyed in the encounter before the Nova Cats were able to leave the system continuing their journey. The Taurians called the encounter a victory having “driven the Clans from the system†the Nova Cats knew that there were more rounds to a conflict than the opening moves.
Fourth Rim Lancers CCT Command Bunker
Timbuktu, Rim Collection
Periphery
10th June 3097
Jerry Able stormed into the Rim Collection Touman’s Strategic operations Center on Timbuktu, his daughter a half step behind him. “Robin,†he met the officer in charge of the Fourth Rim Lancers CCT, an old friend of his from his days running the Able’s Aces. “Sitrep,†he demanded the slightly younger woman. An hour ago a sniper shot had missed him, his daughter and her newborn child at the Timbuktu General Hospital. Since then Timbuktu's capital Greene had been torn up as Rim Collection Security Forces chased them and now there had been another development.
“Seventy minutes ago, a Star Lord-class JumpShip jumped nearly in orbit above the planet’s North Pole, Old Man,†Galaxy Commander Robin Michaelson reported as she pointed to the holo-image above the holo-table in the center of the room. The scene showed the Star Lord launch six DropShips five appeared to be Union type vessels while the last was an Overlord.
“Ballsy,†the President commented. "Any markings?"
“Agreed,†replied the galaxy commander. “If the JumpShip jumped any closer to Timbuktu, whoever they are would have been destroyed.†The KF Core of a JumpShip did not react well to a gravity well of a planet. "As far as we can see no outer markings they've been painted over."
“So no idea who they are,†Jerry asked his former subordinate, catching the slight detail.
“Their IFF transponders are squawking Stone Spirit, Old Man,†she answered him but the look on her face said she didn't believe it.
“That doesn’t make sense,†Karen Able said instantly. “The Spirits are on the other side of the border they've never attacked this deep into our space.â€
“I agree, ma’am. Especially after seeing this,†Robin informed both the President and his daughter as she pressed a few buttons on the holo-table, bringing up images of the six DropShips the JumpShip had carried. The unmistakable holo- images of capital missile tubes on the nose of the Overlord were seen. Only the Overlord A3 had capital missile tubes and she was in service with the Lyran Commonwealth, Star League and Federated Suns only one of those was likely to be attacking.
“Lyrans,†Karen spat out "they haven't even bothered to try and hide it very well." She said angrily
“That was my guess,†was the older woman’s answer. “We’ll know for sure though when they land. I have Gamma Clubs’ Specialist Trinary already heading near to their landing site orders are to report back what they find.â€
“Papa, if they are Lyrans,†Karen warned her father before he interrupted her.
“I know Karen,†he grumbled angrily it likely meant the would be assassins were Lyrans too to Jerry Able none of this made sense, they were at peace, they didn't need another war. “We will wait and see until we know for sure before we act the Stone Spirits might have picked the worse time in history to launch a deep raid.†He said barely believing the words himself as he said them.
“Yes Papa,†she agreed.
A few hours later, they had their answer, as Kirghiz OmniFighters captured and sent images of BattleMechs commonly found in Lyran service, although they could likely be found anywhere if you looked hard enough, each leaving the Unions ready for battle including what looked like a factory new Fafnir BattleMechs. Robin whistled at the images. “By my count, we are facing a reinforced Battalion backed by that A3."
“They’re idiots though,†Karen remarked. “The area where they landed leaves them open to air strikes once we take out that Pocket WarShip. Also, the heavy snow should slow their Mechs down to a crawl.†She said "there's no way that Battle Armour squad will evade our patrols and get all the way out there meaning they have to come to us."
“If they are planning on closing they also have to cross a good amount of ice just to reach us.†Robin added as she tapped a few buttons, highlighting the two closest bases. “Even given the heavy snow fall the ice isn't that strong in places I almost feel sorry for them. The poor saps won’t know what hit them.†Both she and Jerry shared a knowing look.
“What do you mean,†Karen asked the other woman, only for her father to answer her.
“Remember the ambush against the pirates back in ’82,†Jerry asked his daughter; he continued after she gave a confused nod. “Same concept, except this time instead of using fighters to keep them pinned down while our Mechs swing around, we instead once we've taken care of the A3 we will use our fighters to corral them into a tight formation, than target the ice underneath them.†He said he hated to think of drowning fellow MechWarriors but they were the enemy and that was that.
“Like I said,†Robin added with a grin as Karen’s mouth fell open in shock, “the poor saps don’t know they’re already dead.â€
“We will offer them a chance to surrender†Jerry informed the two women. “Only once they are stuck on an island of ice, that is,†he added with predatory smile. “Once they are captured or drown when the ice breaks, send an open HPG message out to all our units readying them for possible war with the Lyrans. Also, I need a speech about this attempted decapitation strike against us by the time this little anticlimactic battle is resolved.†He said watching the first shots being fired as the A3 opened fire on a point of Kirghiz fighters beginning the battle. On the ground the Mechs were moving forward away from their grounded DropShips.
“Why the speech?†Robin asked her former superior.
“Because Papa plans to release news of the decapitation strike out to the rest of the Inner Sphere,†Karen answered, catching on to her father’s idea. “The Lyrans will instantly be put on the defensive both diplomatically and internally, giving us time to prepare for a possible war.â€
“And if war is prevented, this little strike against us will likely benefit the Collection with the addition of some of the more friendly systems across the border,†Jerry added, giving a predatory smile he really didn't want a war with the Lyrans but if they wanted to try and strike him down then he'd retaliate in kind.
“Why would the Lyrans attack us though? This’ll cost them big,†Robin wondered, it didn't make sense, watching as aerospace fighter markings circled the A3 DropShip. Several of the Kirghiz had been shot down by the massive vessel, all this maneuvering in the atmosphere was not good for the DropShip but it was an killing machine, escorted by aerospace fighters they were certainly making a fight of it.
“I don’t know, but I would be a fool to turn down this golden opportunity to keep them off balance and on the defence.†Jerry commented “Karen, see to the speech as we monitor the situation.â€
“Yes papa,†his daughter answered him as she left to prepare it as the other two remained in the centre, keeping a close watch on the fake Stone Lions. The aerospace force that had been escorting the A3 had mostly been knocked out of the sky while there was a mounting amount of damage being dealt to the A3. Suddenly there was a massive explosion on the port side of the DropShip, likely as a Capital Missile magazine was hit,
"There she goes" Robin said calmly watching as the DropShip rolled over and over "she's going to hit the lake." She said watching as the DropShip plummeted into the frozen lake shattering the ice "so much for Plan A."
"So they die a warriors death. Have the second flight move in and drop thunder mines on their flanks" Jerry said his military mind already in motion "have our ground forces appear from their rear. Ahead they have a shattered lake either side they are flanked by minefields and we control the air. Only a fool would continue to fight." He said as Robin moved over to a communication console.
"Sir, we've captured one of the assassins. His three accomplices have been killed" she reported reading the piece of paper "they used Standard Inner Sphere Battle Armour suits, nothing stand out there, the survivor has been identified as Denis Rostovtsev. He's not on any of our initial scans, could be an alias." She suggested
"Likely" Jerry Able said watching as the Rim Collection ground forces began to move in. Each time the attackers attempted to get away to either flank they moved into minefields. "Send the surrender message, let's end this before it gets out of hand" he said watching as the enemy Fafnir at the centre of the formation was struck by a large group of missiles from one of the aerospace fighters staggering the big assault Mech.
"No response" one of the commtechs reported.
"Then we end this, all ground forces move in take them out" Robin Michaelson said stepping forward these were her people after all Jerry Able remained behind as the fighting increased. A couple of the Rim Collection's machines were damaged by the attackers but it was insignificant as they were surrounded and rapidly destroyed by the Rim Collection forces. "Dead's dead by drowning or weapons fire" she said watching the screens as the last Mech fell. On another screen it showed the Star Lord JumpShip leave the system after fast charging its Jump Drive.
Two days later President Jerry Able released information of the attempt against his life, his daughter's life and the life of his grand-daughter. The news spread like wildfire through the Lyran Commonwealth and beyond. The Lyran Commonwealth officially denied all knowledge of the attack blaming it on a rogue mercenary or pirate command condemning the attack. In the following three weeks the Lyran worlds of Lost, Issaba and Qurayyat all hold votes to join the Rim Collection in protest to the Lyran actions while local LCAF refuse to defect to the periphery nation they are given three months to leave their garrison positions or be treated as hostile elements within the Rim Collection.
A message from Tharkad threatens the Rim Collection leaders on Gillfillian's Gold that should they take possession of those planets then it would be an act of war President Jerry Able replied that he would never stand in the way of a democratic decision by free people, it was a founding principle of his nation and one that he believed in with every fiber of his being and if it meant a war he'd fight one.
Border conflict, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
13th June 3097
A Snow Raven border raid expands into a small border war with four systems rapidly pulled into an expanding border conflict. With neither side wishing to expand the conflict beyond a small border war both sides keep their WarShip Fleets away from battle in battles that run for almost an entire month. Eventually Snow Raven forces retreat back inside the Raven Alliance with no worlds exchanged between the two.
Raid
Last Frontier, Rasalhague District
Rasalhague Dominion
20th June 3097
Following their raid against Turtle Bay the four “pirate†raider Mechs strike at Last Frontier in the Rasalhague Dominion. The four Mechs strike without warning attacking a civilian hospital and despite their small number cause a massive amount of damage fighting off an entire binary of Ghost Bear Mechs causing heavy losses to the Bears while also being able to retreat as the Bears turn to look after the hospital. In post battle analysis one of the lance's BattleMechs strongly resembles a design recently proposed by Odin Manufacturing of Orestes known as the Gravedigger.
Test-flight Range, AFFS Airbase
Ranford, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
27th June 3097
Her most recent flight over the Dina Fight Range had been too short for Duchess Sterling Davion's liking but a technical malfunction had forced her experimental Dagger Aerospace Fighter back to its bace. The Federated Suns technicians had been experimenting with Binary Laser Cannons, Variable Speed Pulse Lasers and XXL Fusion Engine power on the craft, eventually something had to break, walking around the Aerospace Fighter Sterling hoped it wouldn't be grounded for too long.
“Do you think you can rule the Federated Suns from the air, Duchess?†A voice asked from one door as Duchess Alexandra Ryan-Bowman entered the hanger. Around Sterling some of the technicians looked up briefly then rapidly returned to their work on repairing the fighter not interested in becoming involved in this battle.
“Neg†Sterling replied glancing to the floor realizing her mistake.
“Just as I thought, still a Raven.†Alexandra said the way she spoke of Sterling's former Clan was almost like a curse.
“I am a product of my upbringing†Sterling admitted “but I am also trying to be more.â€
“I'm sure you are†Alexandra said noticing Sterling's face at her use of a contraction she continued “but you can't wing by just trying, you know this you were a leader of men and women, to succeed you must do more than win the skies. I'll leave you to your toy.†She said turning leaving the hanger Sterling watched her leave then turned back to the fighter knowing the Duchess was right but at the same time knowing she could not give up the skies.
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Time to cause trouble - welcome back the Wolves of Kerensky
Planetary Assault
Ford, Dixie Theatre
Halfway province, Lyran Commonwealth
1st July 3097
The first anyone on Ford knew of an attack was the massive explosion that lit up the nights sky and could be seen all over the planet. Only one thing could have caused such a massive explosion and that was the LCS Kevin Tamar the Fox-class Corvette dedicated to the planet's defence. Few knew what had been to cause of the explosion until several hours later when several DropShips swooped over the capital disgorging Elementals carrying the crest of Clan Wolf. After disappearing months before the Wolves had finally shown their cards launching an all out assault on the Lyran/Former FWL border region the Kevin Tamar only the first victim.
On landing on the planet Wolf Elementals quickly seized government buildings and the planetary HPG while BattleMechs carrying the insignia of the First Wolf Assault Cluster, an Elite command of the Wolves Wolf Spirit Galaxy, tore through the Second Commonwealth Guards RCT. With total air superiority the Wolf warriors ignored all pretenses of Zellbrigen. instead declaring loudly over radio channels that all non-Clan forces were Dezgra, tore through the Lyran's veteran RCT within hours cutting down every single warrior the Lyrans fielded. To the Lyrans it was almost like a rerun of 3049 with the arrival of the Clans the Wolves so determined and unstoppable.
At almost the same time as the assault on Ford the Wolf WarShip Trailblazer and supporting ground forces overran defences in the Loric system as the Trailblazer crippled the Peter-class Scout vessel LCS Yvonne and the Wolf's Third Wolf Assault Cluster conquered the planet. As with Ford the Wolves dispensed with any use of Trial instead striking down on the Lyran defenders with their full force until all resistance was put down.
Moving rapidly the Wolves struck at another fourteen worlds near Loric and Ford extending into the Former-Free Worlds League with the WarShips of Clans Wolf, Nova Cat and Snow Raven forming a perimetre with the most elite commands. When each world was secure the Wolf transport vessels Provider and Night Warrior and the Snow Raven Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser escorting the Nova Cat yardship Legacy entered the Sheridan system along with several JumpShips carrying the Wolf civilian and scientist castes as Clan Wolf claimed its new home.
Intent on ensuring that they were not challenged in their new home the Wolves deployed the Nova Cat WarShips Principle and Sabretooth two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers with instructions to capture or eliminate the WarShip MCS Vancouver, a Venturer-class Light Cruiser, taking no chances the Nova Cats gave the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth vessel no chance to surrender instead engaging it as soon as they were able. The Vancouver with its long range Naval Lasers, particle cannons and Light Naval Gauss Rifles was able to cause moderate damage to the Principle but the Light Cruiser was simply out gunned by the firepower of the two Nova Cat Heavy Cruisers and their support ships. With the Legacy safely moved to Sheridan the Nova Cats would be able to repair their damaged WarShip without too much issue. On hearing of the Vancouver's destruction and that there were two Aegis-class vessels in the system McAffe's government offered a complete and unconditional surrender to the Nova Cat invaders.
In a similar operation the Snow Raven WarShip Spur is deployed to Gannet system to after Wolf intelligence suggests there is a Zechetinu II-class Corvette. The Spur jumps in at a pirate point only to discover they have entered the system in close proximity to the Zechetinu II-class vessel Discovery. The Snow Ravens are not ready for a fight but the sheer presence of the Lola III forces the inexperienced crew of the Discovery to surrender without firing a shot in their defence it turns out that the crew were on a training cruise and do not even have a full crew complement or full ammunition stores. As part of their contract with the Wolves the Discovery belongs to Clan Wolf but the Snow Ravens choose to take the crew as bondsmen seeing that they are smart enough to know when they are outclassed. The ship is moved to Sheridan while the Spur remains in the system for Wolf ground forces to arrive and secure the planet.
As new continues to spread about the Wolf arrival the Lyran Commonwealth, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey rush to respond to this new threat as does the Star League Defence Force. None of the surrounding nations attempt to breach the territory claimed by the Wolves allowing the Clans to dig in on several of the newly captured worlds and spread onto over twenty separate worlds. Many of the planets the Wolves secure had been independent since the break-up of the Free Worlds League finding themselves in an area between major powers who were unwilling, or not interested, in expanding into. Many of these had found this independence to be a double edged sword while their affairs were their own they had to spend additional resources on attracting external trade, on keeping the peace and housing criminals, social care and on defending their planets from the increased pirate activity and adventurism from the states nearby. In some ways the arrival of the Wolves was welcomed with open hands as it took many of these responsibilities away from these states.
Liao Royal Hospital, Forbidden Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
12th July 3097
Oblivious to what is happening in the Free Worlds League on Sian Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao's third child Lei Ren Liao is born to Erin Liao. In the presence of the rest of the Liao family as Dao-Shen solidifies his grip on the Capellan throne and ensures that his heirs would take control of the Confederation when he died.
Mercenary contract
Home, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
18th July 3097
Commander Sean Dorran, Leader of the Wolf's Dragoons, walked around the fire-base on Home in the Bowang Free Trade Sphere beside him was Major Stacy Church the commander of WolfNet. “It's a start†he said looking around.
“A start†Stacy Church repeated “we've had another approach this time by Interstellar News Network.†She said the Wolf's Dragoons decision to extend their contract in the Bowang Free Trade Sphere had surprised people all around the Inner Sphere. “Everyone knows that Bowang cannot afford our rates and with Sea Fox interest in the Clipperton Shipyards they know that we are not needed to defend that system.â€
“Maybe we should just tell them we are starting our own interstellar nation?†Sean joked “first Outreach and now Home tell the Mariks they should start worrying.â€
“Sean†Stacy said sternly
“You're trying to make me take things more serious?†He asked glancing back at her they'd known each other for a long time since they were cadets now they were both in their sixties. He knew her as well as anyone and her wild streak.
“If they see us as a threat they might turn guns towards us.†She suggested "our moves determine the future of the Dragoons."
“And the Wolves, they have disabled HPGs as they go, we know what they are doing. Us moving into a position of authority in Bowang may be seen as a threat to them or seen as us scouting for the Wolves.†She cautioned him the Dragoons legacy was well known.
“Everyone knows we long ago abandoned the Wolf cause†Sean said “fear may drive some against us but Bowang wishes us to stay they have offered us this world and we want it.â€
“Along with their militia†Stacy half joked
“Hardly those Soareces they deserve to be in a museum.â€
“Aff†Stacy agreed “however I know for fact that the locals will not give them up they've spent a lot of resources over the years keeping them operational.â€
“We'll accommodate them†Sean said “perhaps they'll be open to us experimenting with them.â€
“You have an idea?â€
“Always†he admitted “but first we have to secure things here. Bowang offered us this world as part payment for our contract we need to show that we can and will defend it. But also that we'll be willing to work with the locals send word out that we'll be training the militia and recruiting to bring its numbers up to the numbers of our Home Guard. That should build confidence with the locals and sway any worries that we plan to be overlords.â€
“It'll take a long time for this place to be anything like Outreach.†Stacy said Sean nodded
“I know but it'll be worth it.†He said looking around imagining what could be from the bare-bones that was their new home.
Royal Hospital, Tharkad City
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd July 3097
With news spreading of Clan Wolf's actions along the Dixie Theatre and Former-Free Worlds League border, renewed fighting along the Jade Falcon border and reports of Rim Collection expansionism the Lyran Commonwealth's citizens have little celebrate. In an effort to bolster Lyran morale House Steiner announces a new addition has been added to their family in the form of Jessica Steiner's newest born son Blaine Steiner.
Pirate Raids
Lahti, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
27th July 3097
Following an increasing series of raids the independent worlds of Stotzing, Jubka, Hednesford and Lahti on the Former-Free Worlds League border petition to join the Bowang Free Trade Sphere. Throughout the shattered League many eyes now turn to Bowang as a beacon of what the League once stood for and despite having the larger Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey and the Rim Association nearby these worlds have made their choice. Bowang gladly welcomes these four worlds despite none of them bringing anything massive to the Free Trade Sphere.
On each of the worlds they hear a similar story a lance of BattleMechs based off an Leopard-class DropShip had been raiding them for some time each of the Mechs was painted the same in Blue and Red with white highlights and each carried a red number “7†on their torso. In each case they identify the same Mechs an Atlas, a Catapult, a Clint and a Jenner marking another new pirate band.
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And to match the map here's August 3097 for the timeline - meant to post this earlier but I had things to do
Flight Range, Kathil
Kathil, Kathil Operating Area
Capellan March, Federated Suns
6th August 3097
Duchess Kym Hasek walked over the tarmac her artificial leg allowed her to walk without a limp or any obvious indication that it wasn't flesh and blood. Unfortunately her balance was not as it once was she'd never be able to pilot a Mech again instead she'd decided that she wanted to be a pilot VTOLs did not need a neural interface while aerospace fighters needed her balance a lot less than a Mech. Her mother had not approved of her plan instead wishing she had begun to learn how to rule the Capellan March but Kym wished to serve the AFFS.
Now on Kathil she spied the Aeron Training VTOL waiting for her the aircraft was not like a normal helicopter instead it relying on vector thrust engines to keep it airborne. The training variant of the aircraft had been modified to allow a pilot to experience several different types of weapons. “Leftenant Jamieson?†She asked as she approached a man in uniform.
“Yes, Captain, are you ready for your first lesson?†He said indicating to the aircraft. She had sat in a flight simulator for over one hundred hours but had yet to take flight as a pilot.
“I am Leftenant†Kym replied “just because I out rank you, Leftenant, if you think I am doing wrong make sure you remind me.â€
“Trust me mam if you are doing something wrong I will be taking over, a mistake in this aircraft will kill both of us and potentially put others at risk.â€
“Yes, Leftenant†she said she then assisted him with the rest of the checks on the aircraft before taking to the air for the first time. The twenty-five ton VTOL was not as tough as any BattleMech but it was still a very special feeling. From her initial flight she learned how the aircraft controlled in the air and general targeting of different targets with different weapons. She wasn't allowed to fire any of the weapons but it was a start.
Naval Raid
Yeguas, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
8th August 3097
The Jade Falcon WarShip Peregrine scouts the Lyran held Yeguas system. There they found the Killing Blow a Mountain Wolf Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette. Instead of engaging in an open engagement the two WarShips agree to engage in a series of aerospace fighter duels. Eight days later the Jade Falcon WarShip leaves the system without causing further harm.
Raids and Reposes
Nestor, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
19th August 3097
When a Marik-Stewart Commonwealth JumpShip enters the Bondurant system it is stopped by the NCS Karl Devalis; the Nova Cat Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser under contract with Clan Wolf. The Wolf response is simple and to the point the The Silver Keshik and Ninth Wolf Strike Cluster, of Beta Galaxy, jumped their “border†entering the Nestor system before fast burning to the system. The Wolves shattered the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth aerospace fighter force landing on the planet immediately throwing themselves at the Second Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Militia which defended the planet.
The combined-arms regiment had been planning to turn back a Wolf assault for weeks however they were nowhere near ready to counter the Wolf's all out assault. Within hours the Marik-Stewart forces are broken into smaller units by the Wolves rapid attacks within days the last remains of the command lie broken at the victorious Clan's feet. In an effort to spread their message, and fear, throughout the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and nearby Lyran Commonwealth the new owners of Nestor allow all the independent traders to leave the planet taking with them news of the Wolf conquest and word that any further raids against the Wolf Empire will be met with deadly consequences.
As word spreads of the Wolf occupation of Nestor and their message regarding their Empire Archon Peter Steiner-Davion called for an emergency session of the SLDF via HPG. Sitting at his desk Peter Steiner-Davion looked at the faces of each Succession State and Periphery State that had joined the reborn Star League. It was a marvel of technology and money that had led them to this ability the Star League's Department of Communications had spent billions on constructing additional HPG stations on worlds between the nations capitals allowing for near instantaneous communication between the Star League's Capital Worlds. “The Wolves are a clear and present danger to the Inner Sphere's security†Peter said looking at the screens “we should have spoken when the Wolves first made their move.â€
“Ridiculous the Clans do not threaten my nation's border this is not an invasion of the Inner Sphere it requires a simple readjustment of your defences to face the Clan threat.†Dao-Shen Liao said he looked angry at even having to speak to them. "The Commanding General can assist you with this, WE are not required for this discussion."
“I agree my nation faces a threat from Clan Nova Cat which is within our borders. We have adjusted to them.†Erik Martens-Calderon stated, the Nova Cats held a single world within the Taurian Concordat, if reports suggested that the Wolves already held twenty-two inhabited systems.
“The Bears and Ravens border my nation on different sides. Why can you not adjust your defences perhaps Skye and the Mountain Wolves are a bigger internal threat than your public services suggest? Or perhaps you are running scared of the Rim Collection?†Warlord Minoru Kurita said laughing.
“Are you an idiot?†Peter said angrily staring at the Draconis Combine leader “the Wolves led the original Clan invasion if they are on the move then the others cannot be far behind.â€
“The Wolves have shown greater aggression in the last few weeks than any of the other Clans have. We have seen Nova Cat and Snow Raven units within their number.†Captain-General Photon Brett-Marik said supporting Peter's claim that the Wolves were dangerous.
“The Star League Defence Force is deploying additional units to your Operational Areas†Archer Christifori, the SLDF's Commanding-General, said “we will be in position to support your nations within the next few months.â€
“In months they could be on Stewart or Marik†Corrine Marik said “I am First Lord of this Star League I will have your attention and your obedience. You will assist us!†The Captain-General's sudden outburst caught all the Succession Lords by surprise but after a moment it was answered by the Draconis Combine and Capellan Confederation's leaders who both began to laugh in unison. Over the last few years everyone of them he begun to realize that the Star League's “First Lord†was a ceremonial title for the Conferences and additional Star League civilian support. Today the real power behind the Star League was its Defence Force which was now a power in its own right only the Succession Lords continued support would keep its loyalty to demand assistance was not the way of the current Star League.
“You have your answers Archon, Captain-Generals†Dao-Shen Liao answered “the Star League Defence Force will support you. We support the Star League at all times.†He said signing out slowly the others including First Lord Corrine Marik followed suit leaving only Victor Steiner-Davion staring at his brother.
“Is this really what the Star League has become?†Peter asked his older brother.
“No it is more Peter. Archer Christifori is the Commanding-General and has said the SLDF are moving additional forces to support you you would be wise to speak to him regarding deployment and joint operations. Corrine was a fool to demand support Christifori and his generals will not take demands well. If she had asked for support from the others then they may have acted however until they see the Bears or Falcons join in these assaults no-one else will act.â€
“Including you?†He asked looking him as First Prince of the Federated Suns instead of his bigger brother.
“I will support Archer and the SLDF as much as I can Peter.†Victor promised “but for now I must stay ready to defend the Federated Suns. If the Snow Ravens and Nova Cats are involved with the Wolves as Photon said then I need to be ready for them striking here as well.â€
“There is no intelligence to suggest that will happen...†Peter said
“There is no intelligence to suggest that it will not!†Victor snapped looking at his brother. “You know as well as I do I cannot justify putting my people at risk.â€
“These are your people as well Victor, you were born in THIS NATION you learned to fight in THIS NATION, your blood is their blood!†Peter said his voice raising with his anger.
“And it turned its back on me†Victor said looking down “it turned to our sister when I was away fighting the very people that you are now concerned about.†He said looking up at him “I gave up my claim to the Lyran throne many years ago. I feel for your losses, Peter, but I will not jeopardize my own people's safety.†Victor said looking back at his brother nodding briefly before signing off. Peter looked up from his desk at his daughter Jessica who had stayed off camera the entire time.
“We stand alone†he said quietly “even family turns from us.â€
“We will prevail†Jessica said calmly “our people will follow the Archon.†He knew she would rather be on board her WarShip than speaking those words but she was his family and stood beside him.
“I need to speak to the peopleâ€
“I'll set it up†Jessica said leaving the room and her father to stare at the screens. An hour later Peter Steiner-Davion dressed in his uniform as a member of the LCAF addressed his nation informing him of Clan Wolf's move and their assaults within the Dixie Theatre. He announced that the Star League Defence Force, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey would oppose the Wolves on their every turn and that he had confidence in his people that they could turn the tide against the Clan menace.
Contract Negotiation
Marik, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
25th August 3097
After years in the service of the Capellan Confederation the Daniel's Avengers Brigade negotiates its way out of its contract moving their services to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. The Daniel's Avengers, a unit descending from the Twentieth Star League Dragoons Regiment, presently at a combined-arms brigade sized mercenary command. The Avengers had long brushed off SLDF attempts to welcome them back into the fold and were now desiring combat with Clan Wolf to facilitate this they are assigned to the defence of Helm.
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Lyran Commonwealth Raid
Loric, Wolf Empire
2nd September 3097
With Archon Peter Steiner-Davion's speech still ringing in their ears when General of Armies Thomas Hogarth had announced to the Twenty-Fourth Lyran Guards RCT that he would be personally leading them into combat against Clan Wolf. Not one of them questioned his authority or their course of action they would turn the Clan menace back from Lyran soil. Hogarth with him an entire Regiment of brand-new armour vehicles and crews intended on filling gaps the RCT had taken fighting the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and reinforcing their units. Included among these vehicles were several new Hetzer variants known as the Jagdpanzer II series which was being tested by the LCAF before a larger purchase was made. These units brought the Twenty-Fourth's armour forces up to five full regiments of armour giving the RCT a total of twelve regiments of personnel supported by the General's personal WarShip the LCS Nondi Steiner they had felt indestructible.
Jumping into the Loric system they found the Wolf WarShip Trailblazer at the Nadir point, the vessel stood little to no chance as the LCS Nondi Steiner tore the corvette apart with long range naval particle cannon fire. As the Lyrans had turned in system they ignored the crippled Peter-class Scout vessel which the Trailblazer had been guarding the ship was no threat to anyone. What they also missed was the tiny Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft which had been hovering off the jump points “under†Loric's star. On seeing the Lyran assault forces move in the Bug-Eye had jumped as soon as the Hyperion-class Nondi Steiner was out of range taking word of the assault to the other Wolves.
Five days later the Lyrans had begun their landings on the planet initial reports had suggested a single Wolf Cluster was on the planet unfortunately the initial reports had been wrong. Had Hogarth sent ahead a scouting force he would have known the Wolves had reinforced their positions with an additional two Clusters shortly after their civilians were secure on Sheridan. The Wolves had created a “hard†perimetre around their new Occupation Zone and had no intentions on letting their new neighbours enter without a fight. As ordered by Khan Nathan Fetladral the three Wolf Clusters ignored traditional challenges and Zellbrigen instead combining their fire on the Lyran targets including the Twenty-fourth's DropShips as they began to approach the ground. Before the Lyrans left their DropShips their landing zones were under attack with long range artillery fire.
When General of Armies Thomas Hogarth stepped his Atlas II onto Loric to begin his “liberation campaign†he found that two regiments of the Twenty-Fourth Lyran Guards were dead or disabled and every landing zone under heavy fire. Instead of seeing that his people were out gunned and had been out moved by the Wolves Hogarth ordered a march towards Loric's capital Loric City. After moving less than six kilometres and personally engaging seven Wolf Mechs Hogarth called for Naval Support from the orbiting LCS Nondi Steiner to be targeted on Loric City to break the Wolf resolve and morale. The commander of the LCS Nondi Steiner, Kommodore Odette Franks, immediately refused to target any civilian centre with her WarShip's weapons and despite several further requests.. On his final request Odette Franks threatened to obliterate the General's position should he not see sense and order a retreat. Under this threat and with the RCT around him being gradually torn to pieces by the Wolves Thomas Hogarth ordered a full retreat. The withdrawal was not an orderly one lances and then companies broke their lines individually as the Twenty-fourth were routed by the Wolves.
Nearly twenty-two hours later the last Lyran soldier lifted off Loric. In total nearly four regiments of Lyran Commonwealth troops had been lost on the planet including the RCT commander, two Armour regiment commanders and the commander of the infantry brigade; unfortunately for the Lyran Commonwealth General of Armies Thomas Hogarth was not among the casualties being one of the first to board one of the DropShips. Turning away from the planet at their best speed they headed back towards the jump point during the next four days Hogarth repeatedly requested to be transferred to “the flagship,†the LCS Nondi Steiner, however each time his request was denied due to “tactical concerns†held by Odette Franks. On the fifth day with the DropShips and the Nondi Steiner still sixteen hours from their JumpShips and safety the SRS Thor, a Kigamure-class Pursuit Cruiser, jumped into the system. Only the quick thinking of the JumpShip captains saved them from the Snow Raven vessel's guns as each JumpShip executed a pre-planned inter-system jump to a pirate point. Turning again towards the planet the Lyran DropShips and the LCS Nondi Steiner went back over their path towards the JumpShip's new position as the Thor attempted to chase down the retreating Inner Sphere force. Fortunately their small head start kept them ahead of the Snow Raven WarShip long enough for the JumpShips to begin jumping away with the Thor only just entering weapons range as the LCS Nondi Steiner spun up her KF Drive to escape. The two WarShips traded several extreme range shots, most of which missed widely, before the Lyran WarShip jumped out of the system back into the Lyran Commonwealth.
Away from the system General of Armies Thomas Hogarth ordered the Twenty-Fourth Lyran Guards to return to their garrison world of Arcadia in disgrace informing their surviving commanders he was extremely disappointed in them. He then ordered the LCS Nondi Steiner to take him to Tharkad so he could personally recount the Wolf's tactics and readiness to Archon Peter Steiner-Davion. Kommodore Odette Franks obliged the General of Armies intent on ensuring that his account of the battle was truthful and his repeated orders to bombard civilian targets was included in said report.
On Loric the Wolves begin the process of salvaging the equipment left behind by the Twenty-Fourth Lyran Guards when they followed Hogarth off planet the repairable equipment would be used to “prop-up†the Wolves garrison Clusters as their Second-line BattleMechs were transferred to front-line units to replace combat losses. The first such unit to receive equipment that used to belong to the Twenty-Fourth is the Thirty-sixth Wolf Champions Cluster of The Werewolves Galaxy. They encounter several downed warriors during their operations. Due to the Wolf declaration that all non-Clan warriors were dezgra each is thrown in one of Loric's prisons with common criminals after medical treatment.
Asteroid Strike
Necromo, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
18th September 3097
It had become apparent to the Capellan Confederation that someone intended for Necromo to be worthless to anyone when a large asteroid narrowly misses the Necromo Aris Memorial Shipyards. Capellan defensive fire knocks the causes heavy damage to the asteroid and knocks it into the atmosphere of the planet. Due to the damage caused by the Capellan defenders and the friction of hitting the planet's atmosphere at speed it explodes shattering as it heads towards the ground. The impact with such a massive piece of rock hitting the atmosphere and exploding was enough to send a sonic boom shock wave across the planet shattering glass windows on vehicles and in buildings. Shards of the asteroid slam down onto the surface causing massive destruction over several continents.
With the people of the planet already struggling to cope with the death and destruction already inflicted on the planet the Capellan Chancellor makes a fateful decision – abandon Necromo. Chancellor Dao Shen-Liao orders the four under construction ships to be fitted out so they were capable of making a jump to another system then for the shipyards to be completely dismantled.
The WarShip CCSS Xuzhou, a Wudang Jian-class Frigate, is sent to the outer edges of the system to investigate where this “rogue†asteroid came from. While in the outer edges of the system the Frigate encounters what appears to be an extensively modified Newgrange-class Yardship which rapidly leaves the system before they can approach.
With the data gathered the Maskirovka believe that the vessel is a remnant of the Word of Blake/Manei Domini a black project known as Erinyes which has attacked several systems including the now dead world of Lopez.
Test Flight, FTS Bowang (Agamemnon II-class Heavy Cruiser)
Clipperton Shipyards, Clipperton
Bowang Free Trade Sphere, Former-Free Worlds League
21st September 3097
With extensive assistance from Clan Sea Fox the Bowang Free Trade Sphere launch the FTS Bowang, a modified Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser, on a test flight. The vessel which is barely a completed hull with engines and nearly a dozen Naval Pulse Lasers built into it moves clear of the shipyards and tests the Naval Pulse Lasers built into the hull. The test is a complete success with every weapon tested and confirmed to be working perfectly. Dubbed the Agamemnon II-class Heavy Cruiser the FTS Bowang will have Naval Pulse Lasers replacing all the standard naval lasers and feature more advanced armour than the previous incarnation of the craft but otherwise be the same. The FTS Bowang is expected to be in space dock for another year to two years fitting out while her sister ship the FTS Clipperton is also nearing completion.
Although construction has begun again at the shipyard since the damage done to it the shipyards are still operating at a fraction of their previous capacity with two WarShip yards and two JumpShip yards operational. Talk of opening additional yard space is rife around Clipperton however all agree that the only way that Bowang can afford such an increase is if Clan Sea Fox foot the bill for the renovations and already the Clan is demanding a switch away from the Agamemnon-class entirely and onto their Aumakua-class Destroyer. The Sea Foxes believe that this new class will be a better system patrol ship and a better escort to their larger WarShips than either version of the Agamemnon-class.
Counter-attack
Dixie Theatre, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
25th September 3097
In response to the attack from the Lyran Commonwealth on Loris Clan Wolf's Bronze Keshik of The Wolf Hussar Galaxy struck at Arcadia striking at the remains of the Twenty-Fourth Lyran Guard RCT on their baseworld. The Wolves struck by first attacking the MechWarrior barracks and Mech Hanger with long range artillery strikes then with Mechs and Elementals charging into the base. As with their previous strategies against non-clan opponents Clan Wolf struck down each of the enemy warriors with deadly efficiency. At the same time as the Wolves were striking Arcadia the Wolf's 103rd Striker Cluster struck at the lightly defended Gienah system bringing it into the Wolf's new “Empire.â€
In response to the Wolves appearance on the border of the Dixie Theatre Lyran High Command ordered all LCAF units to retreat from the three systems which had chosen to join the Rim Collection due to the assassination attempt against Jerry Able. In a public statement the LCAF High Command acknowledges that General of Armies Thomas Hogarth's attack brought the Wolves against them necessitating a redeployment of Lyran units along their external borders but they refused to give up their claim to Qurayyat, Lost and Issaba.
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great update! Looking forward to seeing what will happen to the Gen. of the Army, Hogarth! What a cluster#$&*^! more stories please!
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great update! Looking forward to seeing what will happen to the Gen. of the Army, Hogarth! What a cluster#$&*^! more stories please!
Hopefully he'll have an accident involving a wrong turn and an open airlock when the LCS Nondi Steiner reaches Tharkad, i'm sure Loki could arrange it if Archon Peter wishes it to happen.
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Observation visit
Sharpe, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate
8th October 3097
After several requests from both sides of the border observers from both the Federated Suns and Capellan Confederation are allowed to travel to the Sharpe system under SLDF. Escort on the planet they find a world that has been preserved in its Star League-era grandeur. None of the settlements are massive metropolis sized cities instead the surface of Sharpe is dotted with small towns, most with populations under ten thousand. The planet's only spaceport is partially concealed by a large rock overhang which covers the main hanger complex for aerodyne craft while spheroid craft were lowered into underground hangers explaining why the world had spent so many years passing without being detected.
For the observers the Ninety-Fifth Sharpe Rifles Divisions on maneuvers. The Division standing at three Jump Infantry Regiments, two Armoured Regiments and a single Nighthawk Power Armour Regiment. According to the SLDF representatives the “fake SLDF†officers who were believed to be ComStar and/or the Word of Blake increased the size of the Nighthawk detachment from a Company to a full Regiment which the Ninety-Fifth had trained to be extremely competent and ready for deployment. The sight of six full regiments of troopers dressed in pristine SLDF-era uniforms and equipped with SLDF-era technology is enough to leave a large impression on the observers from both Succession States.
Royal Wedding
St Ives, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th October 3097
In an understated ceremony on St Ives Duchess Jaylen Davion and Tristan Allard-Liao, son of Kuan-Yin Allard-Liao, marry. Both choose to keep their family names however the marriage brings St Ives and New Avalon closer than ever. Due to the current troubles with Clan Wolf and fears of future engagements against Clan Snow Raven the ceremony is kept small within the Allard-Liao Palace on St Ives.
Throne Room, Forbidden Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
31st October 3097
“What do you mean a virus?†Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao demanded looking at his advisers.
“Reports suggest that since the asteroid strike on Necromo a virus has spread among the population some people are wandering around not responding to calls or dangers, others have begun rioting uncontrollably. One report suggests that the Broken is operational...†the adviser said pausing seeing the Chancellor's mood change “...we have not been able to find out what the Broken is or what its capabilities are...†he said stopping speaking seeing the Chancellor's face.
“Sang-jiang-jun!†The Chancellor snapped looking at his wife Erin Liao “I want Necromo isolated in a quarantine. Inform the Star League Defence Force and the Federated Suns that NO further aid is to be sent to that planet.†He said the Capellans had begrudgingly accepted assistance from the SLDF and Federated Suns. “Any ship attempting to land on or take off from Necromo will be fired on and destroyed. No ship is to be boarded by out forces instead utterly destroyed.†The Chancellor said seeing his advisers faces drop in horror. “We will not allow the Nightmare on Necromo to dull our resolve gentlemen.†He said to them “have the engineers continue their efforts to complete the hulls under-construction at Aris Memorial Shipyards completed and moved from that system. Then I want the shipyards dismantled and moved as planned.â€
“And the people on Necromo?†One of the advisers asked finally
“They are already dead to us.†The Chancellor said raising to his feet the advisers in front of him bowed deeply as Dao-Shen Liao and Sang-jiang-jun Erin Liao walked passed. Leaving the room the advisers stayed in their bowed position for several moments knowing the Maskirovka Guards in the room would report any lack of respect or tradition.
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I was tempted to sit on this for a few more days... but I really can't. I'm kinda disappointed no-one noticed Necromo and the date of all the happenings there...
Time for a sacking...
Throne Room, Steiner Palace
Triad, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
9th November 3097
General of Armies Thomas Hogarth walked confidently towards the Steiner Throne seeing Archon Peter Steiner-Davion was standing at a situation table over to the side with several advisers, including his beautiful daughter Jessica Steiner, Hogarth noted. As the General of Armies approached several of the advisers stepped back and Peter turned towards him. “General of Armies Hogarth your report.â€
“Sire, the Wolves appear to be well prepared for any incursion into their space. The Twenty-Fourth Lyran Guards RCT conducted a raid against the “Wolf Empire†and failed to gain a foothold in the claimed space.â€
“The Twenty-Fourth raided Wolf spaceâ€
“Yes, sireâ€
“And you went with them?†Peter asked knowingly waiting for Hogarth to lie.
“I did the Wolves fought ignoring all known Clan fighting styles instead they fought more like a Succession State.â€
“So you not only allowed them to conduct a raid which was against my orders but you also accompanied them!†Peter snapped
“You said I should assess the Wolves...â€
“I said you should assess the situation on our BORDER not that you should CROSS it!†Peter snapped angrily the advisers almost all collectively stepped back as Peter turned on Hogarth “I said we would resist the Wolves incursions into our space, we cannot hope to push them off those worlds alone†Peter said continuing. “Now you have done exactly what the Wolves wanted us to do, start a War that we are not ready for and that they can take advantage of!†He said “have you not seen how the Clans operate now? The Rasalhague Dominion waited for the Draconis Combine to strike them then crossed the border at nearly a dozen locations if the Wolves follow a similar pattern we cannot hope to hold them. We have already lost two worlds to their forces let's hope they do not decide to push further into our space.â€
“I see what you mean†Hogarth mumbled looking at the floor.
“Then comes the question why did you take the LCS Nondi Steiner off our border?†Peter said getting to his next point.
“The Heavy Cruiser was my fastest method of returning here to report.â€
“An HPG?†Peter said looking back at him it would have been simple to use a Class A HPG to communicate with the Archon “instead you removed one of our WarShips from our border. Fortunately our WarShip commanders are well trained and Kommodore Franks communicated that her vessel had been ordered off the border and we were able to replace her.†Peter said “and then there is the point of your calls for orbital support.â€
“Yes I believed it would be prudent for the LCS Nondi Steiner to strike at Wolf positions to break their resolve.â€
“Prudent†Peter said pressing a control on the table which played a recording of Thomas Hogarth's voice demanding orbital support targeted on Loric's capital city. “Prudent to strike at civilians†Peter said calmly “prudent to strike at Lyran civilians who live in that city. Prudent to show the Clans that we were willing to kill one of their number because of Turtle Bay but when it suits us we are willing to resort to such tactics.â€
“The Inner Sphere used such tactics against targets on Huntress!†Thomas Hogarth retorted
“NOT AGAINST CIVILIAN TARGETS!†Peter shouted angrily losing his tempter “the SLDF and the WarShips attached to them struck targets on open ground!†He snapped “Hogarth your disregard for my orders, your reckless tactical choices when discovering you were out numbered on Loric and your desire to use capital weapons on ground targets show me one thing is abundantly clear. My first belief about you was the right one†Peter said Hogarth opened his mouth to speak “don't even say a word Herr General. You are hereby stripped of your rank of General of Armies I'm sending you to Kaumberg you can think about your mistakes there.â€
“Who will replace me?†Hogarth asked finally finding his voice
“Aiden Gray he deserved the position before†Peter said “Thomas your dismissed.†The Archon said turning away from him back to the situation table and his advisers. Thomas Hogarth believed he deserved to be there as well but he wouldn't push the issue instead he turned smartly and left the throne room probably for the last time in his life.
After Party
Steiner Coliseum, Solais VII
Star League Protectorate
22nd November 3097
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Caireen Defoe for Steiner Broadcasting, and behind me is Ariana Steiner the victor of Solaris. Yes you heard me right a member of the Steiner family, a second cousin to the Archon, is the victor on Solaris VII. Ariana Steiner, daughter of Reinhart Steiner and Faith Steiner (McCarron), has had a short and some would say risky career on Solaris. In the fourteen matches she has fought in over the last seven months Ariana has been injured twice, one time resulting in her admittance to Solaris General Hospital, and it is confirmed that during her fighting in battle she has killed two other pilots with no indication that either kill was intentional.†The broadcaster said all fighting on Solaris used live weapons and occasionally pilots were killed; any death in the Solaris Arenas was investigated and there was nothing to indicate that Ariana had gone out to kill any of the other competitors. “The risks she has taken since being in the arena have had to worry Ariana's commander Elizabeth McCarron or the First McCarron's Armoured Cavalry. Can she continue to take such risks and still be classed as a Mercenary Warrior or is our new Solaris Champion looking at a career on this game world?â€
Mercenary Announcement
Wolf's Dragoons Command, Harlech
Outreach, Star League Protectorate
24th November 3097
From their command base on Outreach the Wolf's Dragoons announce that their Brigades Beta and Delta Regiments were being re-registered with the MRBC after both Regiments had been inactive for several years. Neither command is registered as registered as “Battle ready†with both Regiments expected to be involved in extensive training exercises over the next year before their first Contracts.
Border Fighting
Wolf Empire/Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
28th November 3097
Following a continued series of border raids conducted by the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth against Clan Wolf's newly claimed “Empire†Clan Wolf strike back with their own series of objective raids. The Wolves pick their targets with intent crossing the border the Wolves strike at Concord, Amity, Danais, Helm and Midkiff.
The Wolves find the Concord system abandoned by the Marik-Stewart defenders and thousands of civilians scrambling to escape the world via the spaceport. The Fifty-third Wolf Champions Cluster commanded by Star Colonel Samantha Radick act quickly taking control over the spaceport and sending all employees and civilians in the spaceport home. They then move quickly seizing five civilian DropShips quickly ejecting their crews from the vessels and the spaceport. A message of warning is passed to the population of the planet that should they offer the Wolves no resistance things will go better for them.
On Amity the Wolves find more resistance as the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's First Free Worlds Guards Regiment and the Twenty-first Eridani Light Horse Regiment of the SLDF put up resistance against the Wolves holding back the Clan forces. With neither employing naval support the Clan invaders and the defenders find themselves locked in a deadlock.
Similarly on Helm the Wolves find stronger than expected resistance from the newly arrived Daniel's Avengers mercenary command. The Wolves aware that the Avengers are newly arrived on the planet attempt to dislodge the mercenary brigade however they find stiff resistance from the unit. Due to the Avengers nine-year long contract with the Capellan Confederation the mercenary command have several stealth armour equipped vehicles and Mechs in their TO&E giving the Wolves an entirely new tactical challenge.
In the Midkiff system the Wolves find a similar situation to that on Concord with the Marik-Stewart defenders having abandoned their bases and fallen further back within the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. The Wolves know that the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth are attempting to make the Wolves stretch their resources while at the same time strengthening their own defences do not attempt to hold all of Midkiff instead following the same strategy as Concord securing the local space port while allowing the planet to continue to run itself as long as they offer the Wolves no resistance.
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Time to end 3097
Whitting Conference Centre, Unity City
North America, Terra
Star League Protectorate
11th December 3097
The Whitting Conference Centre was at the heart of what the Second Star League was about. Named for a small hamlet on Coventry where Inner Sphere leaders had first banded together to resist and fight the Clans the Star League had taken to naming every conference and the place that these conferences would be held at after that place. In the centre of the slowly rebuilding Unity City the Conference Centre was purposely built to service the various members of the reborn Star League with separate sections dedicated to the various states and enough security to stop an infantry battalion in its tracks.
When the Conference was not in use by the leaders of the Inner Sphere it served as an education centre, a meeting place for member planets of the Star League Protectorate and as a museum telling the story of the First Star League, of the Star League Civil War, the SLDF's Exodus and of the reborn Star League. The history behind “Whitting†and the centre's constant use made it a perfect target for those who were against the reborn Star League or against the Succession State's presence on Terra. There were various known organization's that the SLIC kept a constant eye on however most of the SLIC and extended SLDF did not take an attack on any SLDF facility on Terra to be a credible option to any of these organizations.
Unfortunately there were those, radically loyal to Terra and believing that Terra should be at the fore front of everything, who saw things differently. After years of planning they finally made their move. At 09:00 a food delivery vehicle moved under the south entrance of the Whitting Centre entering the underground loading dock. Exactly six minutes later the lorry and its towed trailer exploded in a massive fireball killing the driver and eighteen others instantly. The explosion tore up into the centre killing six more as it damaged the first three floors and shattered the centre's glass exterior. Following the explosion fire and smoke filled several levels causing further damage before the building's fire suppression equipment and emergency services brought it under control.
Although the SLIC instantly began an investigation they did not have to look long before discovering who was responsible. In a broadcast that reached everywhere in the Terran system and would be replayed throughout the Inner Sphere and Periphery for weeks to come a group calling themselves “The Soldiers of the Terran Republic†claimed responsibility for the attack. In their broadcast they talk down the SLDF as a sham and call on all true sons of Terra to rise up and claim their birthright as leaders of the Terran Hegemony.
Test Flight, High Orbit
Kathil, Kathil Operational Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
15th December 3097
After an intense session of training flights in VTOLs and conventional aircraft Duchess Kym Hasek is given her first taste of space flight with a trip on board an Ares Mark IX shuttle craft. Kym flying as co-pilot is not allowed to take the controls but is able to observe during the flight which takes them out of Kathil's atmosphere to the McKenna Shipyards in high orbit and then back to the planet again. The experience cements the Captain's desire to serve in the Federated Suns Navy.
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Counter Attack
Autumn Wind, Wolf Empire
Former-Free Worlds League
17th December 3097
After months of retreats and allowing Clan Wolf to take worlds from them hand over fist the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth are ready for a counter-attack. With their units in position the Marik-Stewart release the Concordia Battle Group from their position over Washburn as the Second and Fourth Marik-Stewart Guards boarded JumpShips heading for the Autumn Wind system.
Leading the ground forces through the jump into the Autumn Wind system the Thera-class MSC Concordia and her escorts Eagle-class escorts MSC Mordred and MSC Loedegrance flashed into the system's Nadir point. Immediately they were confronted by the Dire Wolf; the first ship of the Dire Wolf-class – an up-gunned Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser.
As aerospace fighters launched from the Concordia the Dire Wolf opened fire on the Mordred with its forward armament, several killer whale capital missile launchers backed up with naval lasers. The Mordred's hull melted under the Dire Wolf's naval laser fire however its point defence weaponry took care of much of the Dire Wolf's capital missiles limiting their effectiveness and buying the frigate time to bring its own forward weapons to bear on the Wolf Heavy Cruiser. Capital class weapons salvos began to rain down on the Clan Wolf WarShip from several directions however the Dire Wolf's enhanced armour helped hold back some of the fire allowing it to continue its assaults on the Mordred. All around the Dire Wolf aerospace fighters from the Concordia converged on the Wolf WarShip engaging it and the Wolf aerospace fighters and DropShips in the area.
As the battle at the Nadir point unfolded, from the Zenith Point, the system's other defensive WarShip moved into position. Moving in on the battle at speed the Snow Raven vessel Lum, a Kigamure-class Pursuit Cruiser, moved into position. When the Snow Ravens had come to the Inner Sphere the vessel had served as part barracks part transport for the Ravens civilian and scientific castes and while the Snow Ravens had long planned to convert the Lum and her sister ships into Conqueror-class Battle-cruisers the work was years behind schedule. As a result the Lum's weapons were still those installed during the vessel's construction with multiple naval particle cannons and autocannons.
Moving in rapidly the Lum was able to make several heavy strikes on the aft section of Loedegrance shattering the vessel's main drive systems while at the same time striking the Concordia herself with several passing strikes. As the Lum continued passed the Marik-Stewart vessels she, like the Dire Wolf, was swarmed by aerospace fighters. The Kigamure had a potent conventional weapons suite however it was not enough and quickly the Lum's crew were having to contend with problems caused by the fighter's attacks.
Naval Battles could last hours or they could be over in minutes, this battle, although nowhere near as brutal as some battles fell into the shorter category. The Dire Wolf was the first to crack although she had superior defences and firepower since her upgrade but even these systems were not enough to contend with attacks from the Mordred and the eighty plus aerospace fighters striking at her from every direction. With the vessel's hull buckled in several places by attack the capital ship's final act before being destroyed was to strike out at the Mordred causing severe damage along her ventral hull knocking out several communication systems.
With the Dire Wolf gone the Lum was alone the Snow Raven crew continued their attacks on the Loedegrance pounding the crippled Eagle with strikes to her aft hull. Even as aerospace fighters moved in on the Kigamure from several directions the Ravens ensured the frigate's hull paid the price for their attacks. Missiles, lasers and autocannons from the Concordia, her fighters and the turning Mordred resulted in the destruction of the Lum shortly after the Loedegrance and her crew perished in a growing fireball.
The Concordia Battle Group had been crippled by the two Clan WarShips with one vessel destroyed, another requiring months of repairs, the Concordia herself damaged and more than eighty aerospace fighters destroyed by the Clan WarShips, Fighters and DropShips. The Mordred, with its communication system effectively destroyed was ordered to retreat from the system while the MSC Pathfinder, a Venturer-class Light Cruiser, was called in from Keystone to protect the Concordia. From across the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth in the Irian system the MSC Monitor, another Venturer-class vessel, was ordered to join up with the Concordia to replace the lost Loedegrance.
As the WarShips had battled the ground forces had headed for the surface on their landing the Marik-Stewart Guards were immediately engaged by the Clan Wolf ground forces showing them that the Wolves would be no push overs. Even with the arrival of the Concordia, with gave the Marik-Stewart forces control of the air, the Wolves continued to fight until the last warrior of Forty-eighth Battle Cruiser laid dead. Both Marik-Stewart Guard Regiments had paid a heavy cost with two full battalions of troops lost and double as much equipment lost between the two commands.
Border skirmishes
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns
20th December 3097
With the Star League Defence Force pulling resources and eyes off the Capellan Confederation and Federated Suns border skirmishes between the two Succession States began again rapidly with raids from both striking at different planets along the border. Although neither resulted in massive deaths or contested ownership of systems it was a constant reminder that neither liked the other very much. On Lee Fredrick Davion and his Fourth Ceti Hussars LCT found themselves facing an insurgent force that had infiltrated the population of the planet and were stirring up anti-Davion feelings. Facing the threat head on Duke Fredrick ensured that the population knew that he was the one personally defending their freedoms and put himself in several risky situations as the fighting moved more towards a traditional battle with the arrival of several lances of stealth armoured Mechs and vehicles which were supporting the rioters. The Duke's actions won the hearts and minds of several prominent people on Lee winning the population's support as the Fourth Ceti Hussars pushed the Capellan rebel forces off the planet with a few weeks.
Contract Negotiation
Stewart, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
21st December 3097
“The Duke is aware that this will cost him?†The power armoured Bounty Hunter asked looking at the contract negotiator the suit's voice distortion equipment hiding her real voice.
“We are aware of this but you agree to the terms?†the Duke of Stewart had chosen to strike back at the Wolves in his own way. Unable to sway Corrine Marik into a direct fully attack against the Wolves he'd approached the contacts of the Bounty Hunter with a proposal. The Bounty Hunter would take out Wolf commanders one by one with their equipment painted in the colours of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey. The Wolves would turn on Tamarind and with their backs turned the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth could regain some systems.
“Yes†the Bounty Hunter said after several minutes of consideration this was not a simple find a target and kill them. This would need longer planning and perhaps a bigger team if she chose to take up the other parts of the contract but it seemed like the right thing to do. She'd read the “Bounty Hunter's Log†she'd inherited when she took the position Vic Travers had fought the Clans first to test himself but then because he noticed that people responded to the Bounty Hunter succeeding against the Clans. So far Aoife O'Kyan had avoided Clan space but she wasn't afraid of the Clans she'd just been following the money now she'd found a contract that would let her and her team make their mark. “You do know that this will cause a lot of trouble?â€
“Of course it will but that's what you excel at, or at least that's what the legends say, am I correct? The negotiator said
“Oh yes you are†she said smiling to herself within the suit. She'd also read's Vic's thoughts after his attacks on the Smoke Jaguars. In some case it came days later in others the Clan reprisals were immediate with civilians paying the price most often. The Wolves were more methodical than the Smoke Jaguars but their recent tactics showed they were just as brutal. “I just hope you are ready for their reprisals.â€
“We are more than read†he said “and if you do your job properly Tamarind will face the reprisals.â€
“Have you never heard that annoying someone to the point of them lashing out does not always have positive results? They'll hit everyone they feel like hitting.†She said surprised that she cared.
“If you don't want our money then do not take the contract.†He said smiling confidently
“Oh I'm taking your money†she said “I just hope I'm around when a Wolf wipes that smirk off your face. Preferably with his Mech's boot.†She said raising turning to the door two of the negotiators guards stood in her way “if you want I can demonstrate with these two gentlemen what is likely going to happen after I begin this little “campaign.†She offered glancing backwards.
“No, save it for the Wolves.†He said waving them both off allowing her to leave. As Aoife moved away from the meeting she thought to herself killing Clanners was good enough for Vic Travers, now it was her turn.
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Most up to date WarShip list
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Newest Map
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3098
Hull 472, Narukami-class Destroyer
Shimoda, Kangoshima Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
4th January 3098
After years of jury-rigging and repair work the first Narukami-class Destroyer was ready to begin its transit to the Midway shipyards for analysis by Combine engineers. The hull was ancient and the majority of its systems were compromised beyond repair but the Draconis Combine high command had ordered the vessels recovered and sent to Midway. Hull 472 was the first ship ready it had been stripped of its name centuries before now it was a number in a book. Drawing in its jump sail the vessel activated its jump drive for the first time since it had been dumped in this system and disappeared from view. Nearly forty minutes passed before an Invader-class JumpShip entered the system and broadcast that Hull 472 had made the jump successfully. Their first stage complete the two factory ships Octavian and Phaeton and their crews continued work on the other three hulls that remained of the class in this system.
Draconis Combine Media Report
Port Arthur, Irece Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
11th January 3098
“The scene here on Port Arthur is one of devastation. At 04:00 local time the raiders struck†the reporter reported his image replaced by a black, white and red BattleMech the image showed the BattleMech a large menacing design carrying a massive hatchet walked through a building. “Local defenders moved to counter them but none of the local militia tactics seemed to work. From what I have heard from witnesses they targeted civilians and military targets cutting down anyone who got in their way. At least two of the Mechs received damage to their head sections†he said cutting to an image of one of the Mechs with a large gash down the side of the cockpit section “however these warriors did not seem to care they continued their assaults, actions which have given them a name The Undead Lance. Who can stop these Mechs? This reporter is unsure but what he can say is if someone does not stand up to them more worlds will face the losses that Port Arthur has.†He said he was again replaced with an image this time not of the attack but of the centre square of Port Arthur's capital with burning buildings, crushed vehicles and medical personnel swarming over fallen victims. The pirate force had earned its name The Undead Lance and with their other raids combined with this one they had earned the hatred of an entire nation.
Commanding-General's Office
Ecol City, Thorin
Star League Protectorate
14th January 3098
The Commanding-General starred at the camera for several moments before speaking behind him was the Cameron Star and the flag of Thorin. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Archer Kendrick Christifori, I am the Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force and the guardian of the Star League Protectorate worlds. I have been a member of the SLDF since its rebirth however today I admit to you all that I have failed. I would like to personally apologies to the people of Terra for the horrific attack on Unity City and for our failure to apprehend the suspects before their attack. This will not happen again†he said promising everyone. Already steps were being taken to strengthen out defences within the Star League Protectorate with special investigation units being sent to every world and additional SAS units being formed to hunt down these rogue elements. The SLDF would be more prepared in the future.
“However these actions will not bring back the thirty-two lives that were lost in Unity City. As a result effective immediately I have chosen to step down as Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force.†There he'd said it unlike the previous occasion when he had returned following the death of David Natale this time he wouldn't be returning. “I failed to prepare the SLDF to defend from enemies both foreign and domestic, the people of the SLDF should not be held accountable for my mistakes†he said he truly hadn't considered the true threat of domestic terrorism the Star League Protectorate had been formed to protect the worlds from the conflicts the Succession States held not from their own people; or so he had thought. “In my place General Victor Focht will assume the position of Commanding-General. Victor Focht is the son of Anastasias Focht and has served in the SLDF for the last twenty-three years under an assumed name refusing to use his father's legacy to his benefit. He was born on Terra and has served as a General for the last eight years. I trust that you will all offer our new Commanding-General the support that you have offered me.†He said signing off.
Over the next few days Victor Focht made his first public appearance as the new Commanding-General echoing Archer's comments about greater security on Protectorate worlds however also speaking of strengthening their relationship with the Protectorate worlds populations and with the surrounding Succession States. There is a small flutter among the Intelligence communities as those who know Anastasius Focht's true identity, Fredrick Steiner, note a Steiner is now in charge of the SLDF few of the Inner Sphere's Intelligence assets miss that Archer Chritifori has not disappeared into retirement instead he has been “parachuted†into the position of Governor of Thorin. It is also noted that none of the command facilities installed on Thorin for Archer's use as Commanding-General have been removed combined with the “HPG Hub†on the planet this makes it a very viable secondary command base should Christifori be needed in the SLDF's future.
Recovery suite, Solaris General Hospital
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate
16th January 3098
She'd been in the hospital suite for five days people, mostly reporters and Solaris Stables looking to hire her services, Ariana wasn't interested she wanted to get better and make her own choice about the future. However as she recovered her thoughts were interrupted as the most unexpected visitor arrived “what are you doing here?†She asked looking at him.
“Good to see you too sis†he said stepping closer “how are you?â€
“Recovering†she said the knife had fortunately missed any vital organs. Ariana had missed the thug's blow during a bar brawl that had gotten out of hand.
“So I see†he said standing near the bed “is this how you plan to spend your life? In and out of this hospital until someone kills you by accident or by intention.â€
“It's my life†Ariana said
“Yes it is, but its not one I can watch you waste†Richard Steiner said quietly “I wanted to see you before you become†he looked around and stepped towards the window “only this.†He said not turning back towards her “I wanted to tell you something...â€
“What that our parents would be disappointed in my choices and that I'm wasting my potential.â€
“No†he said “we were always taught that this was our life and we should live it as we wished.†He said turning back towards her “I wished to tell you that I forgive you for the accident that killed our parents. It wasn't your fault Ariana it was an accident†he said looking at her tears welling in both of their eyes as they recalled their parents passing “I wished to say that to you before you were also lost to me. I hope you recover well.†He said without waiting for a reply he left the room allowing Ariana to continue to think about her future she was Solaris Champion but was it the life she wanted?
Delivery run
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
22nd January 3098
The Wolves lack of their own shipyard facilities had led to them contracting the Nova Cat Yardship Legacy as part of their agreement with the Nova Cats. Long term the Wolves had no chance of retaining the services of the Legacy, the Nova Cats kept a close eye on the ship and refused to allow any trials over it, to remedy this the Forge HH1-class Yardship entered the Sheridan system escorted a Hell's Horses WarShip. Before the Wolves decided to move from their original Occupation Zone to their new holdings the Wolves had made an agreement with the Wolves, no resistance would be given to the Hell's Horses on the worlds of Svaarstad, Dell and Bailiano while the Wolves would gain the next Forge HH1-class Yardship produced by the Hell's Horses.
Counter-attack
Autumn Wind, Wolf Empire
29th January 3098
Clan Wolf return to the Autumn Wind system with the Ward's Legacy, a McKenna-class Battleship, and additional ground forces. The aerospace fighter screen deployed by the MCS Concordia and long range capital laser fire from the MCS Pathfinder, a recently arrived Venturer-class Light Cruiser, kept the Wolf WarShip at long range minimizing the WarShip's impact however the McKenna's presence allowed an additional two Wolf Clusters to land on the world contesting the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's hold on the system.
With the Ward's Legacy and the two Marik-Stewart Commonwealth WarShips trading the occasional long range weapons barrage travel to the Autumn Wind system was restricted while on the ground both sides were wary about engaging each other in large scale battles however both sides traded continuous long range battles and in skirmishes.
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Public Announcement
Steiner Royal Palace, Arcturus
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd February 3098
A puffy-eyed Jessica Steiner sat in front of the Holo-vid camera behind her the Lyran Commonwealth's mailed-fist. “People of the Commonwealth, I am Jessica Steiner, it is my unfortunate task to inform you that my father Archon Peter Steiner-Davion has passed away. You will all be aware that there was an accident on Mount Wotan yesterday that engulfed the Archon's climbing party.†She said pausing glancing to the side “although rescue crews were able to get to them quickly the Archon's injuries were extensive he did not survive†she said sniffling. “By request of the Royal Court I have accepted the post of Archon. My father's body will lie in state for a period of one month for those who wish to pay their respects, as per his wishes he will be laid to rest in the Steiner family plot on Tharkad, I thank you all for your support.†She said as the image faded away replaced with a Peter's picture beside the images of the long gone Federated Commonwealth and the Lyran Commonwealth.
Clan Assault
Ebro, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
10th February 3098
In retaliation for a series of damaging raids Clan Nova Cat's Forty-sixth Nova Cat Cavaliers and the First Eridani Lancers Clusters of Alpha Galaxy commanded by Galaxy Commander Zane Carns assault and destroy the Second Filtvelt Guardians Regiment and the local Ebro Defence Forces. The Nova Cats announce that Ebro, and its population, will remain an addition to the Nova Cat's Den several members of the destroyed Filtvelt regiment are taken as bondsmen to the First Eridani Lancers Cluster.
Clan Raids
Accrington/Aubisson, Vega Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
14th February 3098
In response for the SLDF's failure to stop a terrorist attack on Terra the Rasalhague Dominion move troops onto the worlds of Accrington in the Lyran Commonwealth's Isle of Skye and onto Aubisson in the Draconis Combine's Dieron Military District. In both cases the Rasalhague Dominion troops find heavy resistance from the defenders, even with the Dominion's naval support, on the ground the Rasalhague Dominion debut their new Mad Dog Mk III OmniMech. The OmniMech's enhanced performance over the original surprises the defenders on both planets.
During the battle on Accrington fighting against the Third Lyran Guards RCT Loremaster of the Clans Klaus Harper, fighting with his Second Ebon Keshik Cluster, is killed. As the Clan forces rally around the fallen Loremaster it buys the Third Lyran enough time to retreat off planet. Following Klaus Harper's death Clan Nova Cat is nominated to the position Oathmaster Klick Lenardon refuses to leave his Clan for now however former Oathmaster and current Alpha Galaxy Zane Carns is nominated in his stead. The other Clans deride the Nova Cats for their choice of a “has-been†warrior for the position. On his arrival on Tukayyid in mid-June Zane defeats four other warriors in Trials of Grievance with him he takes the First Eridani Lancers Cluster from the Nova Cat's Alpha Galaxy which the six Ebon Keshik Guard Clusters are unhappy about.
Expansion, Outworlds Wastes
Raven Alliance, Periphery
23rd February 3098
The Raven Alliance expand into the Outworlds Wastes recolonizing the worlds of Halla, Bell, Vinstra, Mindrel, Ictus and Eigerland. While Clan Snow Raven combat units provide defence forces it is the native Outworlds Alliance population that provide the manpower for this Expansion effort. At the same time the Snow Ravens launch a raid against Tancredi VI in the Federated Suns. The Ravens are turned back by a well equipped military unit on Tancredi which fights the Snow Ravens according to their own dueling laws in a series of planned raids.
Building site, Halidon Training Annex
Northwind, Star League Protectorate
27th February 3098
Walking passed the work crews new SLDF Commanding-General Victor Focht walked beside Colonel Jeremy Hamilton, commander of the Halidon Training Annex, originally Archer Christifori had been intending on attending the construction works on Northwind. During the Manei Domini Crisis Northwind's training complex was destroyed the Highlanders had been making do with the facilities at the Halidon Continent's Training Annex. Considering the amount of money and resources the Highlanders had available to them it had been surprising to the SLDF when the Highlanders had not begun to rebuild the Northwind Military Academy instead concentrating on using Halidon and training units attached to their Regiments. “Are you sure that this is the right course of action?†Focht asked looking over the efforts the Halidon facilities had originally only had an aerospace training annex however recently it had been training aerospace pilots, MechWarriors, Battle Armour trained troopers and armour crews.
“Yes, if you wish to share the use of our training facilities then Halidon is the best place to start.†Hamilton said he was older than Focht he had darker hair than Focht's fair coloured hair and darker eyes.
“We're a distance from the planetary capital and primary spaceport.†Focht noted the facilities here were Northwind's smallest continent far from the Highlanders main city and facilities.
“Yes but the secondary spaceport and the facilities here, once fully upgraded, will be able to handle the increased traffic the training complex will experience and it will keep the SLDF and Highlanders separate.†He pointed out all of the Highlander Regiments primary bases and “The Castle†command complex was near the planetary capital of Tara.
“And it would have nothing to do with your construction efforts near Fortification N001?†Focht asked quietly watching the workers the Highlanders had worked hard to hide the fact that they were plying massive amounts of cash and resources into rebuilding the Star League-era Castle Brian at the heart of the New Lanark continent planning on making it a shelter for their regiments and a large percentage of their population should full scale war return to Northwind.
“Work here would keep our joint efforts and those of the Highlanders separate.†Hamilton said covering his surprise.
“Don't worry we won't hold your efforts against you†Focht said putting Hamilton at ease “Christifori knew of what you were doing as well. We respect that the Highlanders are maintaining their mercenary status and have your own plans. And I personally see great logic in protecting your planet in many ways I wish that other planets around you would do the same thing. The Star League may not be around forever and I have no wish to see the worlds at the centre of the Inner Sphere fall foul to the same treatment that they received during the First and Second Succession Wars.†Focht said Hamilton looked at him carefully wondering if the new Commanding-General knew something he wasn't letting on about but the man's face was an unreadable mask; no doubt something he had picked up from his father. “Your facilities here along with those on Terra, Dieron, Thorin, New Olympica and Kittery will serve the SLDF well into the future and allow is to graduate far more cadets once those here are operational.â€
“We expect the initial expansion to be complete within two years†Hamilton said the original Annex would continue to operate during that time but would continue to serve the Highlanders purely. “After that it could be as many as another three years before they are fully operational.â€
“Just in time for the first part of Fortification N001 to be open correct?†Focht asked with a small knowing smile.
“Roughly, there will be space for the maintenance of roughly a regiment of BattleMechs and some command facilities but full command and control will take a lot long as will the expanded accommodations and the DropShip hanger.†He admitted the Castle Brian was massive, it was even bigger than even the Highlanders had initially imagined, the further they went the more they seemed to find. “It could be another decade before it is fully operation. Until then The Castle will continue to serve as our primary base.â€
“Of course†Focht said
“I understand the Dragoons turned down the SLDF's offer?†Hamilton said seeing if he could surprise the new Commanding-General. As the Highlander officer had expected Focht covered his surprise well “was that the second or third offer?â€
“Third†Focht admitted the SLDF had offered both the Dragoons and the Highlanders the same deal, give up on the mercenary life and become a brigade in the SLDF, both mercenary commands had rejected the offer however the Highlanders had stayed at the table to listen further to the SLDF's proposals finding a middle ground. As things stood the SLDF would be allowed to use Northwind to train troops and be allowed to purchase equipment from Northwind's Corsara facilities. The Dragoons had, according to Highlander sources, initially walked out completely after their refusal when the SLDF had re-approached them with an offer similar to that of the Highlanders they had threatened to pull Outreach from the Protectorate. Now after the SLDF had let the Dragoons simmer down a bit they'd made a third approach. Hamilton, nor the Highlanders, knew exactly what the SLDF had proposed to the Dragoons but they knew that the mercenaries had rejected the SLDF's offer again. The Dragoons were in a state of rebuilding they'd reactivated two regiments recently and still controlled three WarShips as well as other impressive defences around Outreach. The Dragoons also still had a monopoly over products produced at the Blackwell Heavy Industries factory complex on the planet which they had so far refuse to relax.
“I've known a few Dragoons during my career. I've fought alongside them, I've fought against them and there's one thing that's always stood out.†He said looking at the SLDF's new commander “they are a bit stuck in their ways. I don't know if its the Wolf Clan that still lingers in them but once the Dragoons have their “teeth†stuck into something or they've decided that something will be done their way there's little stopping them.â€
“Most of the Clanners that founded them are long dead. Those that are still around are retired. Ever since the Riots in '67 and their withdrawal from hosting the MRBC they've become even more isolated than ever.†Focht noted
“Something else they're a bit stuck on, their distrust for other mercenaries, Waco struck them at their heart. A mercenary striking at another.â€
“That disagreement went back years!†Focht exclaimed “I've read the reports ComStar held on them one way or another Wayne Waco was going to hit the Dragoons. He just happened to find the Blakists who were happy to help stir the flames and find him some support.†He said looking back at Hamilton “the Highlanders obviously don't have any problems getting information from them?â€
“Old links†Hamilton admitted “us, the Dragoons, the Kell Hounds a few others we've outlasted everyone else in the trade there's a link there. I can tell you the Dragoons don't like out links to the SLDF they begrudgingly accepted the growth of the Protectorate to encompass Outreach they knew that long term they couldn't keep the world independent as the Protectorate slowly surrounded them. Then again the Dragoons don't like the Hound relationship with the Steiners or worse with the Mountain Wolves so its nothing new for them.â€
“I thought that the Dragoons were quite close to the Mountain Wolves?†At least in some of the SLIC reports a relationship was suggested.
“There a link between them. One the Dragoons probably don't even want to admit to. But there was also a reason they decided to take the Bowang contracts. Bowang could offer them a shipyard to repair and maintain their equipment at a price, the Mountain Wolves and your SLDF would have wanted something more than cash in return.â€
“Most likely†Focht admitted “the Dragoons even appear to have gotten a system in the deal. I wonder what they have planned?â€
“Something that even we don't know.†Hamilton said looking back at the construction work “we learned a lesson from the Dragoons that the Free Worlds League is learning from Clan Wolf right now. The more you prod at the Wolf, the more you try to get out of them, the bigger a bite they are going to take out of you.†The Highlander Colonel warned Focht nodded he knew that Hamilton was right he also now knew that the Highlanders might be instrumental in helping the SLDF catch a break with the Wolf's Dragoons, something he wouldn't forget in a hurry, the SLDF wanted a lot more out of Northwind and Outreach Victor Focht planned on ensuring those plans came to fruition.
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From the Rim Collection my thanks to James Tanaga
Royal Passing, Steiner Palace
Arcturus, Arc-Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
1st March 3098
Filled with grief following Archon Peter Steiner-Davion's death and unable to continue without her husband Duchess Isis Steiner passes away peacefully on Arcturus. Isis' body joins Peter's as the Lyran Commonwealth continues to mourn their loss. Archon Jessica Steiner takes up residence in the Steiner Summer Retreat on Arcturus.
Targeted Strike
Preston, Wolf Empire
13th March 3098
The Bounty Hunter sat concealed on a rooftop overlooking the Preston spaceport with a large barrel sniper rifle. The Wolves had been quite methodical to a point on most planets. They had landed on Preston like most other worlds they had captured the planetary spaceport and evicted all of the workers replacing them with their own. They had then disarmed what militia was present on Preston the local population had forced the MechWarriors and tank crews to surrender their equipment without a fight then took control of the planetary HPG disabling it. After that the Wolves had sat in their spaceport leaving the locals to their own affairs. This was fine for the Wolves who knew they could control the people and the planet by controlling the communications and travel in and out. Unfortunately they couldn't control everything in and out of the system she had inserted into the planet using a small craft slipping into the atmosphere before parachuting to the planet. She'd moved only at night she knew that the locals didn't want a fight, they'd disarmed their own armed forces, instead she'd avoided the locals as much as she'd avoided the Clanners.
Walking across the tarmac of the spaceport she saw three Wolves “pop, pop, pop†the Bounty Hunter said as she took three head shots. Across the spaceport people began running around in panic “pop, pop†she said cutting down two more as a Timber Wolf stepped into view “now that's cheating.†She said looking over the spaceport seeing two others intentionally she took three more shots dropping three more targets. The Timber Wolf turned in her direction raising its weapons marching towards her position. “Come to mommy†she said targeting the Timber Wolf's head striking the seventy-five ton OmniMech with three shots. None of the three had a chance to penetrate the armoured cockpit but it got the attention she wanted stepping back from the ledge she tossed the rifle down beside two a Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey tent and equipment that could be traced back to the Tamarind military. She ran through the equipment making it look like they had broken the camp quickly. Leaping off the rooftop she cut in the suit's jump jets cushioning the fall before running into the night.
The Wolves would find her “sniper nest†and hopefully pin the strike on Tamarind it was the first step in the right direction to completing this contract. Not exactly the public Bounty Hunter display but it was effective. The Wolves soon found what she had left behind their Watch organization tracing the manufacturing data to companies in the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey just as was planned but surprisingly the Wolves remained where they were, with not a single BattleMech moving from its post.
Sphinx Raptor Office, Presidential Offices
Gillfillian's Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
20th March 3098
The leader of the Sphinx Raptors Khan Dante Truscott nodded to himself in satisfaction as he watched the monitors, gladdened to finally have found his clan their much-needed place within the Collection other than as expendable troops. His clan, desperately needing a way to attach themselves to the Collection, yet having really nothing to offer for itself besides a few hundred civilians, four exhausted and battered clusters, and an equally battered warship on two backwater worlds which had limited resources of note other than being perfectly habitable. They had bid there time as they watched and studied the relationship between the periphery nation and their fellow Kerensky Clan, hoping to discover a niche to make themselves useful like the Fire Mandrills had.
Dante had started to lose hope when the attack on the Able family on Timbuktu occurred the other nations around them were hostile or did not respect the Rim Collection. It was then he realized two things. First, while the Monkeys and Collection both understood logistics and war, they did not know how to conduct them to their full potential, at least not to the level of his former clan did. And second, their intelligence and information gathering abilities, yet alone espionage corps, was sadly underwhelming.
He had struck on gold and at a time the Collection needed them the most, he well knew, for these two areas the Raptors, as mainly former Star Adders, were very well proficient in intelligence gathering, analysis and protocol. And it showed, for after half a year of investigation and studying the resources and equipment the assassins had, the Raptors had finally located who wanted the Able family dead.
Michael Sherris, the eldest son of the dezgra Lyran Duchess Cantrelle Sherris, worked for Defiance Industries as an executive at its Hesperus II facilities. He wanted to strike that company and make it pay for harboring the dezgra. The nearest planet the company had offices on, Kwangjong-ni, was oh so tantalizing close, only one jump from the nearest Rim Collection worlds and a highly valued target to boot, what with its industrial and BattleMech facilities. And yet, Dante knew, the man and Defiance Industries were untouchable, for now even with Clan Wolf's recent actions which had the LCAF distracted any open strike at Kwangjong-ni or at Cantrelle Sherris would bring an instant retaliation against the Rim Collection with more firepower that they could withstand.
The entire situation breathed in new life for his beleaguered clan, however, an area that he could focus and mold his people onto. Quietly the Raptors had begun to transform themselves into the much-needed intelligence arm the Rim Collection needed them to be they would find the information and the threats that they needed to survive. The Rim Collection's other intelligence arm, which they had named the Watch in honour of the organizations used by the Clans had initially taken the Sphinx Raptor's decision badly pointing out that Truscott's people did not have the personnel, resources or communication links to complete the task however Jerry Able, had seen promise in the idea and could see that Dante Truscott wanted to focus his people, had agreed. Instead the Watch would re-purpose itself as the protector and investigatory arm of the Office of the President of the Rim Collection.
The other nearest internal rival within the Collection in the intelligence niche lay with the Rim Collection Security Service, a primarily law enforcement and investigatory component of the Rim Collection's Army they were military police units and military law enforcers. That agency’s actions during the attempted assassination attempt on the Ables had shown their effectiveness in that area as well, quickly ferreting out the assassins without much help from the Rim Collection Touman or Watch and locking down the city quickly and efficiently while securing suspects faster than he'd expected. Dante knew that in the future his people would have to work with both the Watch and the Security Service.
As things began to calm down Dante Truscott had traveled here to Gillfillian's Gold meeting with President Able providing him and his daughter with the evidence and analysis that his Sphinx Raptors had been working on. The work seemed to impress the President he agreed with Dante that the Sphinx Raptors had skills and capabilities that the Rim Collection sorely needed and for his people to continue to work on what they had started. Dante didn't know exactly where this would end up Intelligence was not exactly the Clan's strong point the Star Adders had always been excellent at gathering and analyzing information but covert operations, special forces strikes... assassinations against others they knew little to nothing about. From here on Gillfillian's Gold Dante could speak to the leaders of the Watch and the Security Services and perhaps set up some training operations for his Raptors the quicker they learned how to operate the more use they would be.
Border Raids
Capellan March, Federated Suns
23rd March 3098
Low intensity but continuous fighting occurs along the Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns border as the Capellan Confederation raids several former St Ives Compact worlds. The AFFS retaliate by striking back at worlds that were once part of the St Ives Commonality before the St Ives Compact was formed. With the SLDF distracted by Clan Wolf's actions in the Former-Free Worlds League their main local forces were concentrated within the nearby Kittery Prefecture.
Federated New Service, News Report
Kennard, Bryceland PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
26th March 3098
“I am Tony Holt today I am on Kennard where a Snow Raven raid was turned away from the planet by a unit no-one knew existed. When I arrived on Kennard people raved about an AFFS unit that had swooped in and defended them when the local militia had fallen to Snow Raven guns. With heavy anti-aircraft and aerospace support they were able to drive back the Clan aerospace fighters then the ground forces engaged. What followed were nearly eight straight hours of heavy engagement at least two Snow Raven Cluster, possibly three, faced off against the defending unit. Through smart use of artillery, long range weapons fire and by suppressing the Snow Raven's ability to dominate the air the defenders who I can reveal call themselves the Dragonlords successfully defended the people of Kennard driving them off the planet. Local officials have remained quiet over how badly damaged the Dragonlords were during the battle however given them amount of enemy forces they were against the damage must heave been heavy.†He said pausing looking at his notes “this reporter has been unable to find records of a currently active unit on the AFFS rolls known as the Dragonlords however before the Succession Wars there was a brigade strong unit formed by warriors from the worlds of New Avalon, Argyle, Belladonna, El Dorado and Torrence, the Federated Suns five golden worlds. From what I have learned these new “Dragonlords†were raised on none of the five golden worlds and although there has been no comment from the AFFS High Command so far no AFFS unit has been deployed to investigate this unit. With the First Prince en-route to Tharkad to pay his respects for his brother's death it may be sometime before we find out exactly who these Dragonlords are. I'm Tony Holt on Kennard for the Federated News Service.
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Time for the next bit before I need to go to work for a week...
Rebirth, Blood Chapel
Csesztreg, Hell's Horses Occupation Zone
3rd April 3098
With the birth of nearly two hundred warriors from their Iron Wombs on Csesztreg Clan Hell's Horses order the construction of two new Blood Chapels on their new home one for the Bloodname Robinson and the other for the Bloodname Liang. Both of these Bloodhouses will be exclusive to the Hell's Horses and service the Clan's armoured corps as an elite breed of “TankWarriors.â€
Rumours continue to persist that Clan Hell's Horses have begun to build a new type of ProtoMech which is larger than the nine ton limit seen on other ProtoMechs further the Hell's Horses appear to be be planning on constructing further Blood Chapels indicating that they plan to bring back further Bloodnames that have fallen into disuse.
Orbital Bombardment
Necromo, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
10th April 3098
With Capellan work crews busy disassembling the shipyard facilities over Necromo the “plague†that is affecting the world's population is completely out of control with the death toll raising. With two DropShips shot down in a week the Capellan Chancellor ordered the WarShips CCSS Xuzhou and CCSS Zhoushan, both Wudang Jian-class Frigates to “bombard the planet until there was no life left on its surface.†At 18:00 local time the two WarShips began their bombardment of the planet intent on killing over living organism and the plague in one fellow swoop.
Beta Regiment Base camp
Southern Islands, Home
Bowang Free Trade Sphere
15th April 3098
The majority of Home was a land-locked desert with several hot springs and underwater rivers but in the southern hemisphere there was a large freshwater ocean. The ocean was used by the people of Home to provide fresh drinking water for the entire planet with water transport vehicles traveling across the globe delivering water supplies to the human settlements.
The planetary capital, Jai, was on the east coast of the ocean while three large islands the Wolf's Dragoons, since being given the world by the Bowang government, had claimed the larger of the three, named Casa, as their own. The island was effectively a massive mountain surrounded by water and was not inhabited by the locals. The Dragoons however had plans for the island Beta Regiment's Third Battalion created a landing and harbour area zone approximately two kilomtres wide on the eastern flank of the island which had allowed construction crews to move in. Immediately the crews began to tunnel under the island's surface deep under the mountain linking up some of the island's massive caves hollowing out the insides. The initial digging would take six to eight months before the Dragoons construction efforts on the islands could begin. Elsewhere on the planet the Dragoons began to assist the local population improving their infrastructure and support winning the population's support.
State funeral, Steiner family plot
Tharkad, Tharkad City
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
17th April 3098
With the passing of Peter Steiner-Davion and his wife Isis Steiner a state funeral was held on Tharkad. From across the Lyran Commonwealth and greater Inner Sphere nobility attended including Peter's brother First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and his wife Danai Centrella-Davion from the Federated Suns, the Draconis Combine's Warlord of Dieron, Commanding-General Victor Focht and Governor Archer Christifori from the Star League Protectorate, President Jerry Able from the Rim Collection and newly named Loremaster of the Clans Zane Carns representing the Invading Clans. Due to the threat from Clan Wolf none of the leaders from the Free Worlds League attended the ceremony nor did any representation from the Capellan Confederation, Magistracy of Canopus or Taurian Concordat.
Planetary Assault
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey
Former-Free Worlds League
21st April 3098
Following the attack on Preston and the assassination of Beta Galaxy's commander Eric Kerensky Clan Wolf screamed for revenge. All the evidence gathered on Preston pointed to a well equipped covert operations team that had originated on Tamarind. From the attack on Zortman everything, including the wreckage of two downed BattleMechs had pointed to Tamarind. With this evidence alone the Wolves warrior caste screamed for revenge and Khan Nathan Fetladral agreed; it was time that everyone around them understood the price for angering the Wolves.
Commanding the Nicholas Kerensky, a Texas-class Battleship, two Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruisers and the Snow Raven vessel Eden Rose, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, Khan Fetladral led Beta Galaxies six clusters directly at Tamarind ignoring the seasons between their claimed space and the Duchy capital. With Beta Galaxy safely on-board the Eden Rose and its carried DropShips the Nicholas Kerensky, Jerome Winson and Victoria Ward moved on the Sardis Battle Group. With the two Anna Rosse-class vessels and their attached DropShips neutralizing the Sardis' aerospace fighters the Nicholas Kerensky was able to flank the forces obliterating the Bedevere and Tristram with the battleships long range naval laser fire.
As the Sardis retreated towards the planet the Wolves pursued with Beta Galaxy releasing their DropShips from the Eden Rose traveling in system. Five days later the Wolves arrived behind the Sardis the Thera-class vessel intent on fighting its last stand against the Wolves. Nathan Fetladral watched as the TAWS San Nicholas, a barely finished Unity-class Frigate, released itself from the Tamarind Shipyards and turned to join the Sardis. “Give me communications†he demanded the tech nodded “I am Khan Nathan Fetladral of Clan Wolf you have wronged us for the last time I bring four WarShips and the six clusters of Beta Galaxy prepare yourselves.†He said leaving the Nicholas Kerensky's bridge the crew knew their place, they knew what they needed to do.
Soon after DropShips left the Nicholas Kerensky and the Eden Rose streaming towards the surface as the WarShips and Wolf aerospace fighters assaulted the Sardis and San Nicholas. As naval laser and autocannon fire was exchanged between the two the San Nicholas opened fire with its port side AR-10 Multi-Purpose Capital Missile Launchers. Several of the missiles were shot down by the Jerome Winson and their fighters however one slipped through exploding near the Nicholas Kerensky the nuclear explosion tore across the side of the Texas burning and melting the vessel's hull hull breaches occurring on multiple decks killing most of the crew crippling the Battleship. The Wolf response was instant and devastating both Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruisers closed on the San Nicholas tearing the six hundred thousand ton vessel to pieces. As the crew of the San Nicholas attempted to abandon the ship Wolf aerospace fighters tore into the escape pods destroying them as they left the Frigate ensuring all the crew of the WarShip died along with their ship. Seeing the Wolf's ferocious action the Sardis pulled back further engaging the Clan WarShips at long range.
The explosion over Tamarind was not missed by the Wolf ground forces led by their Khan. With communications broken for several moments due to the nuclear explosion the Wolves did not know the results of it, only that they had not used the weapon, this drove the Wolves into a rage as they charged towards the capital of Zanzibar attacking the entrenched Tamarind Militia and Tamarind Guard units defending the city. Within eight hours the Wolves had pushed down over the sandy dunes of Harvison Flats and to the banks of the River of Zanzibar.
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Shadow Guard DropShip Flotilla
Spirit, Abandoned System
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, Former-Free Worlds League
3rd May 3098
Following a disastrous battle with Clan Wolf on the world of Nihau and with Tamarind being contested between the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey and the Wolf Empire the Shadow Guard, a mercenary command, had been able to escape from the system. Although the Shadow Guard were technically still under contract with Tamarind they had a clause in their contract that following a defeat they were allowed time to rest and refit. The unit's commander Colonel Tim Storm had decided that this was such a time and had taken his unit to the long abandoned system of Spirit which had been depopulated over the years of the Succession Wars not by war but by emigration with most people finding the world not worth their time.
Traveling to the system's only planet a small cold rocky world the Storm Guard discovered that not everyone had abandoned the system. In several of the ruined cities on Spirit small numbers of people lived with little power and supplies. Landing on the planet the Storm Guard's personnel nearly a regiment in strength made camp outside the largest of the remaining settlements. They find the at the population is made up of inhabitants from a Free Worlds League unit that had fled to Spirit during the Succession Wars. These descendants of the Succession Wars horrors talk of a “guardian†that had protected them.
During the Shadow Guard's first few days the “guardian†reveals itself an ancient League-class Destroyer which is on a wide orbit of the planet traveling out as far as the outer edges of the system. Tim Storm convinces his unit that not only is Spirit a good base world but that they should recover the League-calss Destroyer as part of their rebuilding. Tracking the ancient vessel from their DropShips and JumpShips the Shadow Guard begin plans to intercept and board the vessel.
Allard-Liao Residence, Tian-tan
St Ives, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
11th May 3098
Several of the Capellan Confederation's stealth lances launch a strike against St Ives. During a battle against the defenders the Capellan units are able to reach the Allard-Liao Family Residence. The Capellan Confederation units ignore the defenders turning their guns on the building causing heavy damage to it. Fortunately none of the Allard-Liao family are injured in the attack but nearly eighty civilian workers are killed before the St Ives defenders are able to rally and drive off the attackers. For days a running battle takes the St Ives and Capellan forces across the capital causing heavy damage to multiple areas of the capital city before the attackers are finally taken down.
Royal Suite, Davion Royal Hospital
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
26th May 3098
On New Avalon Prince Burton and Duchess Sterling Davion's second child, a daughter named Leah, is born. Few outside the Davion royal circle even knew that Sterling was pregnant with another child as she had maintained her training and had continued to fly aerospace fighters around the planet. Sterling had even been speaking of joining the Galax Aerospace training school before Leah's birth.
Nova Cat Strikes
Filtvelt Coalition, Periphery
29th May 3098
Continuing their campaign against the Filtvelt Coalition Clan Nova Cat steps up their series of strikes with invasions against both Sherwood and Brookton. Blaming pirate raids against their territory on the Filtvelt Coalition elements of Upsilon Galaxy and Tau Provisional Galaxy moved against the world. The Nova Cat's Tau Galaxy had been deactivated since 3088 when it was destroyed to the man in the Clan Homeworlds now they had reformed the Galaxy with ProtoMech, Armour and Aerospace units. Formed almost as a feeder unit for other Galaxies these clusters are deployed for the first time against Filtvelt supporting Upsilon Galaxy's 201st Assault Galaxy and the Third Nova Cat Guards Cluster.
These strikes take the Filtvelt Coalition by surprise, as the periphery nation knew nothing of the attacks against the Nova Cats, the Fifth Filtvelt Guardians Regiment based over the two worlds is completely and utterly destroyed by the attack. It also brings the Nova Cat's into direct contact with the the Federated Suns creating a direct border between the two nations. With both worlds secure the Nova Cats move naval assets into the systems while also bringing in their own administration staff to help convert the populations to Clan rule.
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Good update DC one thing though - On New Avalon Prince Burton and Duchess Sterling Davion's second child, a daughter named Leah, is born. Few outside the Davion royal circle even knew that Sterling was pregnant with another child as she had maintained her training and had continued to fly aerospace fighters around the planet. Sterling had even been speaking of joining the Galax Aerospace training school before Leah's death. - Was Leah born and then died or born and the death reference a typo?
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CRAP TYPO
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Planet fall Davion Heavy Guards
Kennard, Tancredi PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
8th June 3098
BattleMech's fell through the sky towards the surface of the planet alongside their DropShips. On hearing of the recent Snow Raven raid against Kennard and the surprisingly successful defence by the defenders Victor Steiner-Davion had returned to the Federated Suns hooking up with the heavy support of the FSS Black Prince, the newly commissioned FSS Hanse Davion II and the Davion Heavy Guards RCT. Victor was thankful for the “Dragonlords of Kennard†who had turned back the Snow Raven invaders but they could also be a threat to the Draconis March and the greater Federated Suns.
Taking no risks the jump-capable Mechs of the Davion Heavy Guards had hot dropped through the atmosphere landing before Victor's DropShip landed. Stepping his Dire Wolf Prometheus onto the planet's surface Victor activated his Mech's communication system “This is Victor Steiner-Davion calling on The Dragonlords show yourselves. I do not wish to fight the defenders of Kennard but I need answers.†He said these people had defended the Snow Ravens he knew that they were well disciplined and knew how to fight even with the Heavy Guards he could struggle.
“This is Duke Alexander Brazeau of Tancredi welcome to Kennard. I think we may need to talk.†A voice said over the comm Tancredi IV was almost forty light years away why Brazeau was answering Victor's call was beyond the First Prince. “Sire†he said respectfully “we are transmitting coordinates for where we can meet. There will be no resistance from the Dragonlords you have my word.†He said moments later Victor received coordinates near the planetary capital of Kennard.
“First and Second Battalion move out†Victor ordered “Marshal Nolan remain here I need regular aerospace fly overs of the capital and a fast support regiment.†He said to the Heavy Guards commander.
“The Eighteenth Heavy Armoured are at your disposal sire.†He replied a moment later. Moving out the two BattleMech Regiments and an entire armoured regiment moved out across the Kennard almost thirty minutes later they arrived near the coordinates given by Duke Brazeau there Victor saw lines of BattleMechs almost all were manufactured in the Draconis March, several from the Precision Weaponaries Factory on Tancredi, beside these Mechs were dozens of armoured vehicles in total there must have been close to two full regiments of units on display many still showed scars from their recent battle with the Snow Ravens. At the far end of the lines were several Snow Raven BattleMechs, several of which showed signs of damage, no doubt salvage from the recent victory against the Snow Ravens.
“ATTEN-TION!†A voice called out over the communication system moments later every BattleMech raised its right arm in salute to the First Prince before lowering it. “First Prince Davion allow me to present you with the First and Second Dragonlords Regiments†Duke Brazeau said as Victor looked over the arranged units they were not a match for a line regiment like the Heavy Guards but it was an impressive show.
Soon after Victor was sat down opposite Duke Brazeau and the dukes of Kennard, Bryceland, Conroe and Pitkin to say the first Prince had been surprised when he'd heard Brazeau was here was an understatement to now see five Dukes on the same planet was unheard of. Bryceland was the centre of operations for this area of the Draconis March and he'd heard nothing from the commanders there to suggest this kind of meeting which worried him. “Would someone like to explain what is going on here gentlemen?â€
“Sire, we†Brazeau said raising his arms slightly “began to talk several years ago...â€
“Nearly ten by my reckoning†Duke Kevin Bragga of Pitkin said interrupting.
“...we'd seen front-line units moved to other areas. Pirate raiding at its highest levels for years, even smuggling and drug trafficking on the raise. The militia forces were not enough to combat these troubles nor were the passing front-line units.â€
“We have a fluid defence force†Victor said defensively “our nation only has so many fighting units, we cannot post a full BattleMech regiment to every world.â€
“And this is something that we understood†Brazeau said looking at the five men Victor wasn't convinced that was the truth. “However we also felt an obligation to our people and our March.â€
“So you hired a mercenary force?†Victor asked thinking that was the only way so many units could have been brought together.
“Not quite†Brazeau said he was obviously the spokesperson for these people despite Bryceland's place in the PDZ. “Initially we did approach several mercenary companies and offer them homes on our worlds in exchange for their services however eventually only six small units took up our offer to formally join the Dragonlords forming the first Battalion of our first Regiment on Tancredi. They became our trainer unit helping shape the other commands.â€
“And this you hid from the DMI? From Robinson?†Victor asked finding out an armed force, which he now assumed numbered at brigade strength at least, had been trained in his nation without his knowledge was not what he wanted to hear.
“These commands were held under the Household Guard Defence Act.†Duke Nikolas Lubivsky of Conroe explained “they were raised to be guards of our families and our planets nothing more.†He said stating the basis of the Household Guard Defence Act which stated each noble could have his own personal defence force. “None have been assigned permanent transport assets and some of the Dragonlords warriors are part-timers doing this on-top of normal jobs.â€
“The DMI, MIIO and Robinson all knew of what we were doing.†Brazeau said “perhaps not on the scale or organization but we have never hidden our travel between our systems. We did this to protect our planets.â€
“So now what?†Victor asked he'd be personally speaking with officials in the DMI, MIIO and those on Robinson after this he wanted to know if there were any other “hidden armies†in the Federated Suns that he wasn't aware of and why he hadn't been informed of these “Dragonlords†before now. “You do know that publicly engaging and defeating the Snow Ravens will likely bring their eyes onto you more than ever? Even with your salvage you cannot hope to continue to finance these units against an entire Clan?†He asked looking at them “and now you have combined your forces technically they are no longer covered by the Household Guard Act they are a mobile armed force something that Robinson and my office has to take an interest in.â€
“We know†Brazeau admitted “we knew the first moment that we decided to stand up to the Snow Ravens that this day had come and we know that we cannot stop the Clan ourselves. Even if we can hold them on the ground the fighting here on Kennard wiped out the majority of our aerospace units and has reduced our ammunition stockpiles for both the First and Second Dragonlords unis.†He said looking at all four other Dukes who each nodded in turn “which is why we have decided that the five Dragonlords Regiments should be turned over to AFFS High Command for direction and deployment.â€
'FIVE REGIMENTS' Victor thought 'FIVE REGIMENTS' an entire brigade, even at combined-arms strength that was quite a force, and it had just “sprung†up he didn't know if he should be delighted with these duke's dedication to their worlds or worried. How could the DMI and MIIO allow this to happen? How could Robinson? He wondered could there be worse threats hidden within his nation than this just waiting for the right moment? He needed to look a lot more into what systems did in the Federated Suns.
“We would ask that each of the Dragonlords commands be recognized as having their Homeworlds here in the Bryceland PDZ and that recruits from this region be given priority for assignment into these commands, we wish to keep their identities and ensure they remember why they were formed.â€
“That is doable†Victor said “I think at least initially until we can assess the capabilities of each unit that they should remain on their initial base worlds. That would include your unit Duke Brazeau returning home. Once they have been assessed having them assigned to the Snow Raven border could be beneficial to the Federated Suns and the Draconis March.†He said seeing the mens faces lighten up at his proposal “understand me gentlemen I am not happy that you formed this force outside AFFS authority. I am not happy that it was 'overlooked' by the DMI, MIIO and Robinson and I will deal with that.†They all glanced away from their First Prince realizing what it could have looked like to him, an army breed with loyalties away from New Avalon and away from the Davion family “but I can understand why you did it and I think the money and resources that you have already put into these commands is payment enough for any wrongs that may have been committed.†He said “I welcome the Dragonlords Brigade into the AFFS I wish them long and honourable careers in the service to our nation.†He said making his decision the Dragonlords were accepted into the AFFS he'd ensure that the DMI and MIIO proved their loyalties, and the loyalties of the men who formed them, but for now he was happy to have an active command on this border which was dedicated to the defence of the Federated Suns. Robinson would also have to answer to why they had reported the threat that could have been posed by this command's formation and by the meetings being held by these dukes as would the AFFS authorities on Bryceland who must have known at least some of what was going on.
Tragic Accident, Steiner Palace
Arcturus, Arc-Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
11th June 3098
Further tragedy hits the Steiner family with the death of Blaine Steiner, first born son of Archon Jessica Steiner, experiences an allergic reaction, which had previously been unnoticed, causes Blaine's airway to close starving the child of air. Despite the best efforts of the Royal Guard medics Blaine Steiner passes away inside the palace.
Still grieving for the loss of her parents Jessica Steiner leaves Arcturus placing the Royal Court and Triad on Tharkad in charge of the day to day running of the Lyran Commonwealth while rejoining her WarShip the LCS Archon's Pride. Over the past few weeks trouble had brewed between Jessica Steiner and her husband leading to them to live in separate locations estranged from his wife Admiral Patrick Doyle travels to Tharkad intent on keeping the Royal Court and Triad in line until his wife is ready to return to her position.
Basecamp
Clinton, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd June 3098
In an effort to show their support for the Lyran Commonwealth the Federated Suns had loaned several mercenary commands to assist in their defence against Clan Wolf aggression including the First McCarron's Armoured Cavalry. Returning to the command a champion of Solaris VII Ariana Steiner believed it was time to prove she was ready to fight as part of a unit on a battlefield and not just.
Crash-site, Pillar of Autumn
Terra Firma, Star League Protectorate
28th June 3098
For months Clan Sea Fox had been supplying the SLDF with supplies to help rehabilitate the world of Terra Firma so the arrival of a Sea Fox Invader-class vessel had not been a surprise to the Star League Defence Force assigned to the planet. Six days later however SLDF aerospace fighters making a visual inspection of the DropShips noticed that all three vessels had a Clan Hell's Horses insignia on them instead of Clan Sea Fox. As they hit the atmosphere the two Mule-class vessels and single Outpost-class craft changed direction leaving their planned course diverting to an area near the crash site of the Pillar of Autumn, a Hell's Horses Halcyon-class Cruiser, that had become a permanent fixture six years before during the Manei Domini Crisis.
Landing nearly two kilometres from the wreck the Hell's Horses defence force on board the Outpost until the SLDF Garrison and the planetary Governor, Leanna Keller, arrived. Speaking to Keller the Hell's Horses commander Star Colonel Chuck Seidman explained that the Hell's Horses wished to conqueror the like many of the other Clans but they also wished to right a wrong from the passed. Many of the crew who had served on the Pillar of Autumn had died during the battle and subsequent crash on Terra Firma and the vessel's wreckage had cause several chemical spills over the years. Seidman said that the Hell's Horses wished to set up a cleaning facility to remove the hazards from the wreck while at the same time preserving the vessel as a monument to the Manei Domini Crisis. Keller, who had lost both of her parents during the attack, agreed to allow the Hell's Horses to remain while ordering the strength of the Terra Firma Guard doubled to two Regiments and requesting a front-line SLDF to be added to the world's defenses.
Twenty-seventh Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Stadium
Star League Protectorate
30th June 3098
On Solaris VII despite the problems on Arcturus and on the Free Worlds League border the Game World continues on. With Star League Defence Force units moving in on the Wolves from the Lyran Commonwealth's Dixie Theatre one of the great attractions of Solaris VII the Twenty-seventh Star League Games is held in the Star League Stadium. Rasalhague Dominion warrior Gunton piloting a brand-new Kodiak II BattleMech had been in production for only a few years based on the original Kodiak fielded primarily by the Dominion's garrison units. Hammering enemy units with fifty Long Range Missiles per salvo and its particle cannon Gunton is unstoppable in this fast one hundred ton Mech.
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The Dragonlords
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/the-dragonlords-brigade-(alternate-timeline-with-thanks-au-affs-command)/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/the-dragonlords-brigade-(alternate-timeline-with-thanks-au-affs-command)/)
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Nice update!
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Good to see the Dragonlords arrive in the AU.
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SLDF Reinforcements
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey
Former-Free Worlds League
5th July 3098
Four days before the SLS Morgan Hasek-Davion and the First Division's Second Brigade – McCafee's Marksmen – had entered the Tamarind system burning towards the planet. The two Wolf Battle-cruisers turned away from the planet abandoning efforts to stabilize the Nicholas Kerensky allowing the Texas to drift away from the planet into space.
As the Star League's Davion III-class Destroyer and six Pocket WarShips approached the two Wolf Battle-cruisers as the SLDF ground forces streamed passed attempting to make it to the surface. The two Wolf WarShips opened fire on the transport DropShips with its broadside mounted Naval Autocannons, particle cannons and lasers tearing down several of the SLDF DropShips. This distraction allowed the Pocket WarShips and the SLS Morgan Hasek-Davion to land several blows on the Jerome Winson before the two Battle-cruisers turned their main firepower on the destroyer. Between the two WarShips the SLS Morgan Hasek-Davion was severely outgunned however the experienced crew was able to avoid some of the Wolf's fire striking back distracting the two Battle-cruisers a few moments longer with assistance from the Sardis' aerospace fighters allowing some more of the Second Brigade to make it to the planet.
In total the Second Brigade had lost the Second Royal Infantry and the Fifth Harraser Regiment their DropShips obliterated by the Wolves shortly before the SLS Morgan Hasek-Davion was also destroyed along with most of the remaining Pocket WarShips. A single Pocket WarShip an Interdictor-class vessel, the Foray, retreated from the Wolves along with the few remaining aerospace fighter units from the Sardis joining up with the damaged Thera-class Carrier.
As the SLDF unit joins the Tamarind forces reports circulate that Clan Wolf units have expanded onto Labouchere and Simpson's Desert destroying the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey's Fourth Tamarind Militia Regiment as they go. The system of Mundrabilla declares its loyalty to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth welcoming Marik-Stewart Commonwealth defenders.
Federated Suns Embassy (Temporary)
Gillfillian's Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
19th July 3098
Karen entered the office to see General, no Ambassador, Damien Redburn assisting a tech in putting a sword-and-sunburst crest on the wall. What was it with these Davion men always busy, Matt was the same she thought before stopping herself when did she start thinking of him as Matt and not “Matthew Davion good breeding stock?†She wondered putting the thought to the back of her mind “it's a little squint†she said.
“It's temporary†Redburn said turning “Miss Able welcome to the office of the Federated Suns Ambassador.â€
“Congratulations or commiserations?†Able asked “the roll of Ambassador is a bit of a side step from where you were? The Prince's Champion.†She said in fact it was probably a severe step back in many ways.
“I'll take the congratulations†Redburn said “the roll of Prince's Champion you leave either because you fall out of favour with the person in office or on your back feet first.†He said “I am Victor's Champion not Burton's the First Prince will not be in office forever and I do not plan to leave on my back.†He said “this make's a nice new challenge and my wife will be pleased I'm off the front-line.â€
“Your wife? I wasn't aware you were married†she noted
“My wife and daughter reside on New Avalon. Now that I'm going to be a resident here they will be joining me once our accommodations have been completed.†He explained these facilities built by the Rim Collection would not last forever.
“Which brings me to the reason behind my visit†she said seeing Redburn's friendly demeanor change to a slightly more professional one “as per your agreement with my father your people have been given permission to build your own Embassy on Gillfillian's Gold. However your agreement states that you would use Rim Collection contractors and personnel to construct them.â€
“Yes that's correctâ€
“Then why have I just received this request from your government for permission for additional personnel to be allowed to land on this planet. From looking at the list there are nearly eighty people.â€
“Yes†Redburn said “the embassy staff, dependents, technical staff, designers.â€
“I thought Matt was going to be in charge of the construction project.â€
“Light Commodore Davion will be in charge of the project, given his engineering background he will be invaluable, I am very happy he chose to retain his commission following the request to join us.â€
“He was going to resign?†She asked not aware of Matt's plan
“Yes, he cares for you deeply Miss Able†Redburn said more familiarly.
“Ambassador Redburn, exactly how many of your people will be from the DMI?†She said returning to formality.
“There will be a contingent of DMI and MIIO operatives included in the party. Our intelligence agencies active in all our facilities however this will not be a "spy station" before you begin to think that. This will be our territory we will staff it as we see fit. Your people and your companies will help construct our facilities but we will make sure they are built to our specifications.†He said pausing “I am sure that Clan Sea Fox and the SLDF will take similar precautions.â€
“Possibly†Able said
“I was surprised that you did not invite the Lyran Commonwealth to built a similar facility?â€
“The Lyran Commonwealth! They are a rival to our Ho... Realmâ€
“A rival?†Redburn said suppressing a chuckle “I mean no offense†he said seeing her anger at his reaction “but understand that the Lyran Commonwealth could crush the Rim Collection with a flick of their wrist, even with the threat from the Wolves and the Falcons.â€
“We've held back the Stone Spirits effectively enough!†She snapped angrily
“Yes you've done a fine job†Redburn said remaining calm “and with our assistance your people have confirmed that the Stone Spirits have six active WarShips, SIX, and possibly an active shipyard you have four war vessels and a Yardship. Even once the Providence repairs the Resolute you've still got a lot of work ahead of you.â€
“We will prevail against all threats to our House†Karen Able said clearly for the first time Damien Redburn realized the burning desire in this woman to create a realm was on par with all those around them and was treated as an equal. She wanted to re-write the Rim Collection book “the Lyran Commonwealth tried to absorb these worlds once before. They will never get that chance again.†She said flustered looking around “I hope you settle in well, Mr Ambassador†she said storming out of the room leaving Damien in the office.
“Have a copy of that recording send to our analysts and get Light Commodore Matthew Davion to report to me at his latest convenience.†He said turning to one of his aides.
“I can set up a communication link.â€
“Negative†Redburn said “I want to speak to him in person we don't use this equipment.†He said he didn't care if it had been given a clean bill of health from their techs until he had a building around him that was completely vetted by the DMI and MIIO he wasn't taking chances especially with the Rim Collection's new intelligence service in operation.
Union Square Retail Centre
Lost Hope, Sirius VI-a
Star League Protectorate
23rd July 3098
The Union Square Retail centre was a massive shopping and entertainment complex that had been built inside the city of Lost Hope on Sirius VI-a. The world was actually a moon of Sirius VI but it had a breathable atmosphere and had always had a bigger population. Since the Sirius Concordance joined the Star League Protectorate its systems had seen massive investment with Union Square being one of the bigger retail developments. Now open for six years it brought thousands of visitors from across the Sirius system and provided thousands of jobs for the people of Lost Hope.
It was a normal busy holiday with thousands of people making their way through the centre making the most of the shops and restaurants when there was a series of massive loud bangs and cracks. Bringing people's eyes and screams as several almost alien looking Battle Armour suits burst into the centre smashing through the windows of the centre landing on fiery jets. The Battle Armour charged forward engaging unarmed civilians with their support sized machine guns dozens of civilians were cut down by the weapons fire injured by the weapons fire.
Not one of them stopped to finish the injured instead the twelve troopers moved forward rapidly firing at window fronts and bystanders as they went cutting down dozens more as it went. People screamed and ran for cover as the battle armour troopers continued to move smashing through the far side of the centre into the street continuing to gun down members of the public walking the streets. As the battle armour troopers moved further down the street away from the shopping centre a Mowang-class small craft approached low over the city opening its cargo bay doors. More than ten tons of munitions dropped free from the small craft causing massive damage to the centre as they fell. The destruction caused by the battle armoured troopers and then the Mowang's fly-over caused massive damage to the complex causing several smaller explosions and fires as the small craft and battle armoured troopers moved away. As SLDF Response Teams moved in on the battle armour but the emergency situation at the centre caught their attention and an armed response quickly turned to relief.
Soon after the attack the Mowang was detected moving away from the planet but it was too late the small craft quickly docked with Tramp-class JumpShip and left the system. On the ground there was three hundred and six dead and hundreds more injured with the damage running into the billions of C-Bills.
Repatriation
Crucis March, Federated Suns
27th July 3098
With Clan Nova Cat aggression increasing against the Filtvelt Coalition the Filtvelt Coalition worlds of Great Gorge, Sodertalje, Mararn and Gillingham all call for Federated Suns protection. These worlds all former Federated Suns ruled worlds had joined the Filtvelt Coalition looking for a change in the way they were governed however with the might of an entire Clan facing them the four planets knew that the writing was on the wall for the Filtvelt Coalition and still wishing to protect their way of life turned to the Federated Suns for protection. Rapidly the Federated Suns deployed the Sixth New Avalon Guards RCT and the First Crucis Lancers RCT along with three WarShips. Despite the repatriation of these worlds into the Federated Suns the Filtvelt Coalition refuses the Federated Suns offer of further support in their defence.
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Rousset-Marik Palace Ruins
Augustine, Star League Protectorate
2nd August 3098
Since the unprovoked attack in 3091 much of the world that had once been central to the Rousset-Marik Alliance had been rebuilt but one place remained in ruin. From across the Former-Free Worlds League and Star League Protectorate people traveled to see the place that the Rousset family had died. Today however a young woman stood looking at the ruins longer than any other she was perhaps thirty years old with dark hair and eyes much like her mother. It had been seven long years since Quinn Ana Rousset had stood on the world of her birth and it felt good to be home.
Fourth Ceti Hussars LCT Base camp
Minette, Minette Operating Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
11th August 3098
Delayed by nearly two years of constant battle and other commitments First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion finally meets his son's wife. Fredrick Davion had married Nikki White a woman of no noble blood in a ceremony which was tiny by any noble standard. Today Victor visited the world with the FSS Black Prince, the FSS Gold Sword and reinforcements for the Fourth Ceti Hussars. With the recent trouble from Clan Nova Cat in the Filtvelt Coalition Victor publicly announced the formation of the Fifth Ceti Hussars LCT which the Fourth would train and the permanent assignment of the FSS Gold Sword to the Fourth Ceti Hussars LCT.
Battle for Tamarind
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind
Former-Free Worlds League
19th August 3098
The Wolves had taken much of Tamarind's capital city by the time Khan Nathan Fetladral had arrived on the planet to oversee the last conquest of the world. Tamarind was key in establishing his Wolves new Empire it was the first capital world to be attacked by the Clan and it falling would solidify their position much as Rasalhague had during the original Clan Invasion. What the Khan had not expected was a challenge from Tamarind's defenders the Wolves had declared all Inner Sphere targets Dezgra, honourless dogs not worthy of a trial or fair combat, Fetladral had no choice but to make that declaration the Crusaders within the Wolves had demanded it.
Now however a single Tamarind Grand Crusader BattleMech stood before the Wolf advance challenging them to prove that they were the superior warriors. Surprised into inaction not a single Wolf had opened fire on the enemy Mech instead they had waited for Fetladral's arrival. Something came over the Khan leading to him commandeering a Tomahawk Assault OmniMech and taking to the field opposite the Tamarind BattleMech. “I am Khan Nathan Fetladral of the Wolves who dares to challenge the Wolves?â€
“I am Chloe Brett-Marik this is my world Khan Fetladral and I will see you off it†the warrior replied bringing a laugh from the Wolf Khan regardless of the result here today Tamarind was already almost completely held by the Wolves. “Laugh all you want Fetladral but know this should you refuse to listen to my challenge my remaining people will unleash the last of our nuclear arsenal and we will destroy your wolves.â€
“You will destroy all of your world for that victory.â€
“A small price to pay†Chloe replied her Grand Crusader ready for the onslaught of weapons she expected from the Clan Assault Mech.
“And if I fight you, if I give you the honour that you desire, and I win. What does that mean to you? You will still be dead.â€
“Yes, but I will know that your people still have the honour that they claim to hold and I will hope that your people show that honour in the future.â€
“What are your terms?†Nathan Kerensky asked he knew that the other Wolves would be angry at his agreement to this Trial but it was something he needed to do.
“If I win you will retreat from this world†Chloe Brett-Marik said “if you win you will gain full control over this planet but you will allow my people to leave. This decision is mine alone.â€
“Neg†Nathan Fetladral replied again Chloe tensed ready to see the Tomahawk's weapons fire and to feel his BattleMech crumble around him. “If you win we will leave this world as you say. But the price for our territory is all of your nuclear weapons.†The Wolf Khan said he'd seen the destruction wrought on the Nicholas Kerensky he did not want to see it again anytime soon now that the defenders were willing to use them on a planet it was even more important to his Clan's future. “If I win, we will hold all of Tamarind, you will surrender all of your weapons including those nuclear weapons you still hold and you will leave this system completely.†He said the Sardis still lurked on the edge of the system sending aerospace fighter units into combat with his own threatening his WarShips he did not know if the carrier had weapons such as those used on the Nicholas Kerensky but it was time to rid this system of that threat.
“You would allow my people to leave?†She asked stunned at the Wolf admission.
“We have no need for prisoners†Nathan confirmed “however if you betray me. If you leave forces on this planet that attempt to disrupt Wolf control over Tamarind I will burn every building on this planet, I will destroy its people and I will leave it to burn.†He said threatening the entire planet.
“I agree to your terms, my people will abide by this decision should I fall.â€
“As will my Wolves.†Nathan confirmed he hoped that those on the planet were still loyal enough to him to do as he wished the Crusader movement within the Wolves was stronger than ever. “Well bargained and doneâ€
“Let's finish this!†Chloe replied raising her Grand Crusader's right arm firing the Mech's light gauss rifle and medium laser mounted there hitting the Tomahawk's right torso armour before jumping her BattleMech to the right. Nathan Fetladral tracked the leaping eighty ton Mech triggering his Mech's Heavy Assault Gauss Rifles at it as it began to fall. Only one of the Tomahawk's massive guns struck the Grand Crusader ripping armour from its right side. As Chloe Brett-Marik landed her Mech she twisted its torso firing the Mech's particle cannon and another medium laser, the laser went wide but the PPC struck the Wolf OmniMech's right leg burning away more armour as the Tamarind Mech continued to move.
Fetladral knew that the Grand Crusader had superior mobility and speed to his assault Mech however he also knew that the Tomahawk had far superior weapons and armour to its opponent. Turning his own Mech's torso to track the Grand Crusader the Wolf Khan triggered all three of his Mech's Extended-Range large lasers the green beams of light briefly connected the Grand Crusader and Tomahawk as they burned away armour from the arm, leg and torso. Inside the Tomahawk's cockpit Nathan Fetladral felt a wave of heat rush into the OmniMech as its double heat sinks struggled and failed to cope with the heat produced by the energy weapons. The problems the Wolf Khan was struggling with was nothing compared to those that Chloe Brett-Marik was struggling with. Her Mech had lost almost two tons of armour in the Tomahawk's attack and the Tamarind leader was fighting to keep the eighty ton Mech standing. The armour had not breached but another attack like that would likely result in critical weapon or system damage. Staggering her Mech forward Chloe fired her Mech's light gauss rifle laser combination again in an attempt to hurt the Wolf assault Mech but both went wide as the other Mech began to close.
Unable to cope with firing the lasers again so soon Nathan Fetladral triggered both of the Tomahawk's arm mounted HAGs the rapidly firing gauss rifles tore armour from either side of the enemy BattleMech, at this range it was difficult to miss, armour shattered and broke as dozens of projectiles slammed into it as massive speeds. Even as the Grand Crusader struggled with the armour loss the pilot was still able to fire its short range missile launcher and another medium laser striking the Tomahawk's torso the Wolf Khan noticed on of his Mech's two medium lasers wink out damaged by the attack. But it was not enough to stop the Wolf Mech triggering two of his large lasers in retaliation Nathan watched as the Grand Crusader fought to stay on its feet surrendered to the invitable as it fell onto its back smashing into the ground. “This was always going to be the result†he said his Mech was bigger and had heavier weapons than the Tamarind design.
“It's not over yet†Chloe Brett-Marik shouted back at the Wolf leader triggering her Mech's light gauss rifle even from the Mech's prone position the hyper-sonic slug slammed into the Tomahawk's upper torso tearing a large gash into the armour as the kinetic energy was expended against the Clan Mech. As Nathan Fetladral stepped his Mech backwards regaining his Mech's balance Chloe Brett-Marik expertly rolled her Mech over and back into a standing position firing the Mech's missiles as she moved, not one of the six missiles hit the Wolf OmniMech, showing Fetladral that his opponent still had fight in her. “COM'ON FIGHT ME!†Chloe taunted over the communication system firing both her gauss rifle and particle cannon into the massive Tomahawk as Fetladral stalked his Mech forward the Wolf leader did not utter a word as he triggered both of his rapid fire gauss rifles and all three lasers at once. The weapons struck the Grand Crusader at the same time as Chloe Brett-Marik fired all of her remaining weapons 'rolling the dice' hoping to snatch victory from defeat. The two Mechs were momentarily connected as laser, missile and gauss fire were exchanged Nathan Fetladral fought against the damage and the heat his own Mech had taken as he staggered his Mech forward be barely saw the Grand Crusader stagger forward into his own Mech.
With a massive smash the two heavily damaged assault Mechs collided even as their weapons continued to fire with neither pilot able to counter the damage they had taken or cope with the heat rushing into their cockpits the two Mechs slammed into the ground in a tangled mess. Several moments passed before Nathan Fetladral realized his Mech was still on the ground with his cockpit glass had been shattered by the impact with the ground he looked at his sensors and saw that the Grand Crusader was still down as well. Ignoring his instinct to try to get his Mech back up Nathan slammed his Mech's right arm into the ground shattering the gauss rifle mounted there bending the weapon's barrels into uselessness he didn't care instead he used the leverage gained by the ruined weapon to raise the Mech's other arm and without hesitation he triggered the Tomahawk's other gauss rifle and laser. From nearly point-blank distance the slugs barely felt the air before slamming into the Grand Crusader's torso and cockpit shattering the Mech's armour and then its command chair and pilot.
Raising his broken Mech back to its feet Nathan Fetladral could see from the damage schematic that the Tomahawk had internal damage to its torso, arm and cockpit the gauss rifle and large laser in the right arm were destroyed and two heat sinks in the torso had shattered spilling their coolant fluid all over the Mech. Looking down at his screens the Wolf Khan could see his destroyed opponent was not going to move again the Mech was more a wreck than the fighting machine it once was straightening his position in his seat Nathan Fetladral activated his Mech's communication systems “people of Tamarind you leader is dead. I agreed with her that you could leave should I win this world. Abandon your positions and leave your weapons I grant you Hegira your DropShips are free to leave.†Nathan Fetladral said exhausted “to my Wolves we are victorious Tamarind is ours allow these warriors to leave or face me in battle.†He said challenging them his Mech was crippled but operational he would fight anyone who challenged his ruling. After the battle they had witnessed not a single warrior on either side decided to disagree with the Wolf leader for hours the defeated fighters of Tamarind filtered passed the Wolves to their DropShips leaving the planet and nearly two regiments worth of equipment in Wolf hands.
The SLDF unit which had reinforced the Tamarind defenders chose to ignore the Wolf call to leave their arms instead loading into their DropShips and boosting off the planet in violation of the Wolf Khan's orders. As a result the Wolves decided to make the SLDF unit pay with the Victoria Ward, one of the Wolves two Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruisers, engaging the DropShips as they fled for deep space. Three of the SLDF's nine DropShips were cut to pieces by the WarShips weapons further crippling the Second Brigade these actions were the last of the battle for Tamarind the rest of the retreating forces put up no resistance as they were loaded into DropShips and send off planet to meet with the Thera-class Carrier Sardis along the system's edge. Soon after JumpShips arrived and the Tamarind-Abbey forces retreated from the system.
With their capital in Wolf hands and their leader dead Tamarind moved their administrative command to the system of Gibraltar and leadership passed to Chloe's younger brother Richard Brett-Marik. The SLDF's Second Brigade retreated to the world of Bolan for further orders and reinforcements. On Tamarind the Wolves moved to secure the rest of the planet and the units the defenders had left behind in orbit Wolf marines boarded the Tamarind Shipyards finding them abandoned the workers having depressurized the dock and left with the planet's defenders. Overall the facilities were in good condition but it would take months before they were back in operation. As a stopgap measure Khan Nathan Fetladral ordered the Nova Cat yardship Legacy and the Wolves newly gained vessel Wolf's Den to the Tamarind system to begin repairs on the three WarShips in the system. The Nicholas Kerensky would take months or years to rebuild while the two Battle-cruisers each would take several months to repair. Stabilizing the Texas-class Battleship and moving it to the Tamarind shipyards the repair crews instead concentrated on the two Anna Rosse-class vessels intent on returning them to operation before turning their eyes on the larger vessel.
Lyran Commonwealth Assault
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
23rd August 3098
Ignoring her own personal grief and turning it into a drive and anger rarely seen in the Steiner family Jessica Steiner leads a force of Lyran units and WarShip against the Jade Falcons. With rumours of fighting between the Jade Falcons and Clan Coyote on the other side of the Occupation Zone Jessica strikes at Jesenice, Chapultepec, Machida and Zongshan intent on retaking Melissa from the Falcons with Jessica's WarShip the LCS Archon's Pride supporting ground actions on Zongshan. Within the Lyran Commonwealth there is great apprehension at Jessica's actions although many support her actions and welcome the returned systems they worry about the reaction of Clan Jade Falcon once it has finished its battles with Clan Coyote.
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Border Conflict
Clan Occupation Zones
9th September 3098
Minor Trials over equipment between Clan Coyote and Clan Jade Falcon escalates to an all fighting as the two Clans begin battling over entire systems. Over the course of the first two weeks in September the Coyotes claim the systems of Vulcan and Colmar while the Jade Falcons claim La Grave from the Coyotes. In each battle the Clan units involved adhere to a strict version of Zellbrigen fighting as traditional clan units would in one battle a Coyote warrior accidentally strikes another sparking a melee following the battle he faces several Trials of Grievance from fellow Coyotes.
Demonstration, Gilmour MilTech Factory
Talitha, Star League Protectorate
11th September 3098
After months of working with LexaTech Industries in the Draconis Combine Gilmour MilTech Industries of Talitha debut the Yurei LAM design a brand-new design based on a forty ton chassis. The design is not based on any that was developed during the original Star League-era like other LAM designs the Yurei sets no special records with two different configurations demonstrated on Talitha and Irece with both companies stating that anyone who wishes to buy the design will be welcome. What does set the Yurei apart from other designs is that it has what Gilmour and LexaTech call the LAM Gyro. Bulkier than a standard gyro the LAM Gyro weighs half as much as a standard one but it takes up a significant portion of the unit's side torso sections both companies play down the increased piloting difficulty the LAM Gyro adds.
Both LexaTech and Gilmour announce plans to introduce the LAM Gyro to their other designs the Shadow Hawk LAM, Screamer LAM and LexaTech's Stinger LAM. On Irece production of the Yurie and other designs is expected to go to the Draconis Combine while the SLDF are likely to get the bulk of the production built on Talitha. The other known LAM factory on Tamarind is now in the hands of Clan Wolf and not seen as a viable place for production.
WarShip Transfer
Midway, Shipyards
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
18th September 3098
Following the successful transfer of Hull 472 to the Midway Shipyards the Draconis Combine transfer the remaining three Narukami-class vessels from Shimoda to Midway. None of the three hulls is expected to see service with the Draconis Combine admiralty however analysis of these designs adds to the information that the admiralty and design firms within the Draconis Combine have on the type of vessel.
Meeting Room, Augustine Planetary Bank
Augustine, Star League Protectorate
22nd September 3098
Quinn Ana Rousset sat down opposite Governor Bannister Cameron who had arrived on the planet a few days before and asked for a meeting. The Augustine Planetary Bank had jumped at the chance to host a meeting between the planet's former duchess and a member of the Cameron family. “Welcome home†Bannister Cameron said smiling at the younger woman “you've been missing for a long time.â€
“I needed the time awayâ€
“Time away doing?†Cameron asked carefully
“A few mercenary units needed a gun, a few people that I needed to visit, my travel plans were my own. Now I have returned home.â€
“It is curious to me that on a day when an unknown Battle-cruiser leveled three quarters of this continent that you were able to slip away unnoticed.â€
“If you have something to say, go ahead and say it†she said angrily “I returned to this world to pay respects to those that died including my mother nothing more.â€
“That's good to hear†Cameron said “as I've heard some rumblings about your return.†He said most of these rumblings had come from Marik which was worried that Quinn would play on her mother's reputation and dreams and resurrect the Rousset-Marik Alliance.
“I've no intentions of making any power grabs beyond Augustine†Quinn said quietly “this is my home, my family have lived and died here.†She said “you can pass to Corrine that Augustine is in my blood and all I have done is come home, the same goes for your protectorate, the only resurrections I would do if I could would be for those who lost their lives on the 15th May 3091 and on the days that followed.†She said her eyes watering at the thought of what had happened during the attack.
“I believe we could all share those sentiments Miss Rousset it was a horrible day I am glad to see that your missing person report can be marked with found alive and well, it makes a nice change.†He said more politely than before exactly where Quinn had been was up for debate but Bannister Cameron felt no ill from the young woman for now the people of Augustine had someone they thought was lost to them back which was something to be celebrated.
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The LAM Gyro
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/new-tech-lam-advancements/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/new-tech-lam-advancements/)
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The first unit to use the LAM Gyro - The Yurei
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/yurei-s-yr-1lam-(lam-gyro-upgrade)/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/yurei-s-yr-1lam-(lam-gyro-upgrade)/)
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Newest Hell's Horses design
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/hell's-horses-designs/msg39216/#msg39216 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/hell's-horses-designs/msg39216/#msg39216)
Nuclear Explosion
Denbar, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
2nd October 3098
Following weeks of low intensity conflict between the Capellan Confederation rulers and planetary rebels a nuclear explosion rocks the capital city of Denbar. Denbar had long been a thorn in the Capellan Confederation's side, being a former St Ives Compact planet, the Capellan ruler ship over Denbar had become more and more draconian forcing the local population to stand up to the Capellans. For months the SLIC had been monitoring the system from their nearby Star League Protectorate suspecting that the AFFS were funding the rebels sending them weapons.
Clan Council, Parliament Chambers
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
14th October 3098
When Clan Wolf seized Sheridan they had disbanded the planetary government using the Parliament Chambers for their Clan Councils. Since the creation of the Wolf Empire the planet had been selected as the capital of the new state. With the capital under martial law the Wolves had been able to begin construction of their own facilities but it would take time for now these buildings and the Free World's League “tacky†decor was something that Clan Wolf needed to put up with.
Putting up with problems was something that Nathan Fetladral was getting used to as Khan he'd put up with the resistance on Tamarind until he had been able to force them into an agreement now however he had to deal with the resistance of his own Clan Council. Nathan's Trial of Possession for Sheridan had won the planet for his Clan but his one-on-one battle with Chloe Brett-Marik had given their enemy legitimacy in the eyes of the Wolves something that infuriated the warriors of the Clan.
“You gave honour to your opponent! You legitimized her rule over that planet!†Galaxy Commander Amina Kerensky shouted angrily at her Khan she commanded Beta Galaxy and had overall command over the campaign against the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey. She was young, disciplined and ambitious everything that a Wolf in her position should be her actions and words carried the weight of many Wolves. Her strikingly beautiful looks and long red hair a reminder to everyone of her heritage; which traced its way back through Natasha Kerensky all the way back to the founding of Clan Wolf.
“Aff I did legitimize her position on the planet and her ownership of it!†Nathan snapped back intent on bringing the Wolves back into the here and now. “I also defeated her in single combat and I won Tamarind for our Clan, I defeated the person who claimed that planet like a true Clan Warrior.†Nathan Fetladral said refuting the other warrior's claim.
“She was dezgra, they are all dezgra†Amina Kerensky shouted.
“My actions were in keeping with our Clan's traditions. I defeated her in combat.†Nathan said repeating his words “I did as any Clan warrior has a right to I challenged my opponent and I defeated her.†He said defiantly silently challenging anyone who was brave enough to speak up.
“And you allowed her warriors to leave instead of taking full advantage of your victory†Amina said accusingly trying to portray his actions as those of someone not acting like a Wolf.
“I ended that campaign with a victory for Clan Wolf that was all that mattered†Nathan said aggressively “Amina Kerensky you should be pushing against your designated targets instead of making a power play in these chambers!†He said allowing his voice to raise feeling he was winning this fight Kerensky looked furious “my fellow Wolves our enemies will never change however we do not need to waste resources on them. We can fight them until we are also dead or we can fight smart your choice†he said looking around the assembled Wolves hearing the words Amina Kerensky knew she was defeated but she also knew she'd have a second challenge against Nathan Fetladral.
“Those who break faith with the Unity shall go down into the darkness†the Khan said continuing quoting the words that The Founder Nicholas Kerensky had used when ordering the destruction of the Not-named Clan. The Wolves were secure in their new home but their internal disagreements, like this one, could yet tear them apart he knew this in many ways he was sure that Amina Kerensky knew this as well.
Trial of Possession
Baker 3, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
17th October 3098
In a planetary assault on Baker 3 Clan Hell’s Horses surprise Clan Jade Falcon, and all their other neighbours, by debuting the Marathon, the prototype to the new Marathon-class Battle-cruiser, during the assault the Marathon displays the same qualities of the Halcyon-class Cruiser, which had preceded it, by deploying ground forces from its cargo bay and with Pelican-class Small Craft. On the ground, following the grand entrance, the Jade Falcons and Hell's Horses fight a standard Trial of Possession with the Hell's Horses victorious.
Trials of Possession
Udea, Rasalhague Dominion
22nd October 3098
As the Hell's Horses battle the Jade Falcons in Trials of Possession the Rasalhague Dominion finds itself challenged by Clan Coyote on the worlds of Udea, Karbala and Meachem. In Trials of Possession the Coyotes are victorious on each planet. Inner Sphere intelligence assets note that both sides fight within the rules of Clan Honour possibly driven on by the actions of Clan Wolf in the former-Free Worlds League where they had shown that they would offer no honour to those who showed no honour.
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Time to shake the foundations a bit, not breaking them... yet, but showing its not just Clan Wolf making things interesting
SLDF Peacekeeper Deployment
Denbar, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
1st November 3098
In an effort to bring peace to Denbar and to help the population deal with the recent nuclear detonation the SLDF deploy the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry's Thirty-first Royal BattleMech Brigade along with the Ninety-fifth Jump Infantry Regiment off of Sharpe, which is delivering relief supplies, marking the first time one of the native regiments has been deployed off of Sharpe.
The local Capellan Confederation leaders threaten the SLDF units that if they leave the spaceport area they will be fired on. Within an hour of the SLDF units choose to test the Capellans resolve and attempt to delivery their relief supplies to the capital only to come under fire from the Capellan defenders. The Thirty-First Royal intent on helping the local population returned fire on the Capellans before falling back into the spaceport.
Lyran Offensive
Son Hou Theatre/Former-Free Worlds League Border
7th November 3098
With Tamarind still in the hands of Clan Wolf and with the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey government lost and disorganized the Lyran Commonwealth's High Command deploys naval and ground units onto eleven worlds along their shared border including Bolan and Cirincus. As the Lyrans move in two Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey WarShips the TAWS Moscow in the Sierra system and the TAWS Sierra in the Cavanaugh II system attempt to counter the Lyran assault along with several ground forces regiments. Unfortunately for the defenders the LCAF units and their attached mercenary forces are too strong and too dedicated to the assault for the defenders and quickly all the worlds seized. The Second Tamarind Militia Regiment and the Furies Mercenary Command forced to surrender on Cavanaugh II. Not wanting to see the Duchy weekend too badly with the Wolf Empire over their other border the Lyrans allow the Tamarind-Abbey forces and their mercenaries to leave the claimed planets.
SLDF Command Complex
North America, Terra
Star League Protectorate
14th November 3098
Following the damage done to the Whitting Conference Centre a year before the Star League Conference had been moved to New York City on the North American continent. As expected each of the House Lords had taken precautions this year with a full regiment of support troops landing with them at their designated landing zones. Commanding-General Victor Focht watched the reports streaming in the SLDF had deployed between them but already there had been a skirmish between the Land Air-Mechs of the Third Yokosuka Special Naval Landing Force Regiment of the Draconis Combine and the BattleMechs of the Davion Guards of the Federated Suns. The SLDF's Praetorian and Tribune Command Vehicles had been able to quickly coordinate the SLDF's response separating the two sides. “Reinforce our positions in the city and warn naval commands to ensure those WarShips stay outside Luna's orbit†he said looking at another screen then at Fleet Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald “if any of them step out of line the Second Casper Drone Squadron is cleared to engage have all planetary defence drones remain within reach of orbit.†He ordered the space around Terra was defended by three layers of defence the first was the Caspers, currently down to three vessels following the losses in the Sharpe system, then came a layer of smaller fighter sized Drones and weapons satellites before finally human operated WarShips and aerospace fighters were committed to the fray.
On the ground there were three front-line SLDF Regiments, Four Terran Guard Regiments and six Drone “sentry†Regiments making sure that the Succession State visitors could little causing trouble; even if the Draconis Combine Land-Air Mech Regiment was impressive. “During the Conference ensure SAS Units are deployed three streets deep as was planned†he said looking at General Marcus Johnston “the Succession Lords might think that they can cause trouble because they have additional units with them this year. That is not the case we are prepared for them. However I want your people looking out for threats closer to home we need no repeats of last year.†He said cautioning the Special Armed Service Division's commander over the last year SAS operations had been expanded throughout the Terra system and beyond into the Star League Protectorate worlds with an additional two regiments worth of troops assigned to the SAS Division and several of the units expanded to full Reinforced Battalions.
“The SLDF was reborn to protect the Inner Sphere from the Clans†he said speaking to all the assigned commanders “as time has gone on we have done admirably in this task. However we have also found that we ourselves have further responsibilities closer to home. The Star League Protectorate is not the Terran Hegemony, it is not made up of planets that think they are better than everyone else, it is made up of worlds that have been fought over by these families and that have paid a heavy price. We have stood up and said that we will protect them†he said he knew most of the officers present were founding members of the Second Star League's Defence Force and had been born in those Succession States. “I do not think that we have anything to fear from those states not do I think that we will ever be called on to fight them directly†he said choosing his words carefully “however we must be ready to defend the Star League Defence Force, its Protectorate and Terra from all threats. If we need to fight make sure all of your people know that any combatant not wearing our uniform and acting in a hostile manner is to be taken down with the full use of their weapons.†Much of the troops that made up the SLDF commands on Terra were now filled with people born on one of the Protectorate worlds however there were still a number of “foreign born†non-enlisted and enlisted personnel in each regiment.
“So far the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey representative has not arrived considering Tamarind is occupied and the Lyrans recent offensive we might not see them but if they arrive late we need to be ready. They will be directed to land in Zone Kilo if they arrive and before they land I want that area completely sweeped. We DO NOT need the Lyrans or Marik-Stewarts taking an opportunity to take out the leadership of Tamarind again.†He said referring to the recent death of Duchess Chloe Brett-Marik fighting against Clan Wolf since then the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey had relocated its capital to Gibraltar but with recent Lyran assaults the entire nation was near crumbling point. Victor had drawn up SLDF deployment plans to relocate Regiments and WarShips from the Rasalhague Dominion border to the Lyran/Tamarind border but getting council approval would not be easy.
The Commanding-General's thoughts turned to who may “win†the election to the post of First Lord. It was unlikely that Tamarind's young inexperienced leader would win, the same could be said for the new Lyran Archon whom most still considered a little unstable since the death of her parents and First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had already stated that he would refuse a further nomination, the Federated Suns leader had already served in the roll four times, which left the Draconis Combine, Oriente, the Capellan Confederation, the Taurian Concordat and their periphery neighbours the Magistracy of Canopus with the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth leader Corrine Marik discounted as she could not serve two consecutive terms. With all the division currently facing the Inner Sphere Victor Focht actually thought that Governor Bannister Cameron of the Star League Protectorate could be a likely candidate... if the Succession Lords could get over their “fear†of a Cameron retaking the position as First Lord. Victor smiled to himself could it finally be a chance for the SLDF to have the full backing of its First Lord? To finally have a chance to put the Protectorate's goals ahead of the Succession States? It would be grand if it were true.
Four days later, with still no sign of the Tamarind delegation, Victor Focht's hopes became a reality as Bannister Cameron was elected to the post of First Lord of the Star League Defence Force. The Federated Suns had predictably nominated the Star League Protectorate leader in an effort to stop nominations of the Draconis Combine and Capellan Confederation leadership by the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Magistracy of Canopus. With votes from the Federated Suns, Lyran Commonwealth and Oriente Protectorate the Commanding-General's own decider vote had not been required sailing Bannister into the position.
Less than an hour after the election both Bannister and Victor Focht had received hand written letters from Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao firstly congratulating Bannister on his victory but then warning the Governor that should he overstep his position or attempt to make it a permanent arrangement he'd face stiff opposition from the Capellan nation. The next part of the letter had warned the Commanding-General that the invasion of Denbar would not go unanswered and that if the SLDF remained in the system they should be ready to fight for it. Victor was sure that the other Succession State leaders would be opposed to a permanent leadership of the Star League Defence Force by any member of the Council let alone a Cameron.
Lyran Commonwealth Expansion
Son Hou Theatre, Alarion Province
Former-Free Worlds League/Lyran Commonwealth
23rd November 3098
The Lyran Commonwealth Diplomatic Service announce that the Trinity of Southwestern Worlds, Galisteo, Cerillos and Sierra, all part of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey have chosen to align themselves with the Lyran Commonwealth. The three systems, Clayborne II and Hardisey's Haven all publicly state that they do not wish to follow the path the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey planned to take. Along with these worlds goes the Camacho's Caballeros Mercenary Regiment which signs an eight year contract with the Lyran Commonwealth.
State Announcement
Bowang, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
30th November 3098
Sitting at her desk on Bowang Prime Minister Allison Kaning looked at the Tri-Vid camera and calmly smiled she hoped that she was not coming across as being smug. For the last eight months she had negotiated with the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey leaders first with Chloe Brett-Marik and then with her brother Robert. Initially the Duchy had started as the superior partner in the negotiations however with Clan Wolf and then the Lyran Commonwealth both attacking the Duchy coupled with the death of poor Chloe the tide had turned in Bowang's favour and now everything was done.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, today I sit on Bowang with an announcement that reflects on our past, our present and our future. The Bowang Free Trade Sphere was formed to protect our worlds from our neighbours in the Former-Free Worlds League and put us in a better position when dealing with those states. Today we have grown along with our goals and we sit proudly as a state alongside the other nations that once formed the great Free Worlds League. And in the future we will be even better placed. Today I am proud to announce that the Bowang Free Trade Sphere and the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey are to merge into a single state which will be known as the Outer League Alliance.†She said pausing for a moment to allow it to sink in. She knew that it would sit better than Bowang merging with the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey but she worried that people would see this as Bowang steeping back; which it was not. “Bowang will be the seat of government for this “new†nation with Gibraltar acting as a regional capital. It is my hope that the Outer League Alliance will be the first step towards a reformed Free Worlds League. I call on the leaders of our fellow League nations to consider my words it has been too long since our nation was whole. I would also like to say from this moment on the Outer League Alliance is ceding Tamarind's place in the Whitting Act and withdrawing its support for the Star League Defence Force we will stand as a Free Worlds League nation under the banner of a unified House Marik or we will stand alone.†She said she had little hope that her words would be listened to she knew that the Oriente Protectorate felt similarly but neither the Principality of Regulus or the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth thought the same. The Rim Association had remained quiet when she had suggested a similar arrangement to that which Bowang and Tamarind now entered. She knew the Association was facing its own troubles at present so she hadn't expected too much. “To our neighbours Clan Wolf and the Lyran Commonwealth your conflict was with a nation that no longer exists. Should you wish to talk to us we will listen but I promise you that should you resist we will fight you until our last breath.â€
Several days later the worlds of Illyria, Trasjkis, Reykavis, Landfall, Maxmillian, Zorn's Keep, Thadora's Land and Blantleff all announced that they would not be joining the Outer League Alliance instead the former periphery nation worlds announced that they would be joining the Lothian League. Officially Bowang supports these worlds choice recognizing these worlds choices unofficially Bowang sees their break away as a threat to the newly formed Outer League Alliance one that needs to be dealt with however one that also needs to wait until Clan Wolf and the Lyran Commonwealth are dealt with.
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Nice update! I like the formation of the new nation 'Outer League Alliance'. I am now really wondering what you have in store for the SLDF, now that you have a 'Cameron' as the SL First Lord! ;D Overall, a very nice update!
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Nice update! I like the formation of the new nation 'Outer League Alliance'. I am now really wondering what you have in store for the SLDF, now that you have a 'Cameron' as the SL First Lord! ;D Overall, a very nice update!
I may have noticed the name in a recent free product... just really wanted to use it
Glad you liked
Trial of Grievance
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
10th December 3098
General Damien Redburn, the Federated Suns ambassador to the Rim Collection, stood in the crowd surrounding the Trial of Grievance for the Cauldron of Blood incident, his arms crossed over his chest. He was tense. Major Canin McKinnon was truly a fine soldier and an asset to the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns, yet Redburn knew the other man was outmatched by his opponent. A thought reverberated by the man standing next to him.
“Major McKinnon is unfortunately outmatched, Ambassador,†President Jerry Able commented.
“Perhaps,†Damien gruffly acknowledged he'd been against Canin personally taking this Trial but the Major had pointed out that he was now the commander of the AFFS Ground Forces, with Redburn taking the Ambassadorial post, and the Fire Mandrills needed to answer for the losses they had taken at the Cauldron.
“What is your press saying about this,†the Rim Collection President asked a moment later after watching Major Canin McKinnon get knocked down, only to use the momentum of the blow to roll on his back and to his feet.
“The First Prince and his allies in the Suns are spinning it to be a duel of honor between the two. Though his heir seemed to be put out by it thinking that a disagreement on this scale should be answered by a more senior officer.†Redburn replied.
“I gather the people of the Suns are eating that up, quiaff,†asked the newly promoted Star Colonel Justine Truscott of the Sphinx Raptors, who stood slightly to their left, yet close enough to listen in.
“Yes that’s what’s happening back in the Suns, Miss Truscott,†Damien Redburn confirmed to the Raptor warrior, causing her to shake her head at his blatant use of contractions, in turn causing him to smirk. “At present however they are more interested in seeing the return of our personnel it has been a long deployment.â€
“And what happens to the relationship between the Suns and the Collection when Major McKinnon loses,†she asked a moment later her concern was a valid one. In the last few months her Sphinx Raptors combined with the AFFS unit had identified three ground force units used by the Stone Spirits that they had not known about they had also identified eight individual WarShips employed by the rogue Clansmen. Where the Stone Spirits had found so many WarShips was a mystery as was how they were able to maintain those vessels.
In front of them the two combatants continued to spar the Elemental-stock saKhan of the Fire Mandrills had superior reach to the freeborn AFFS MechWarrior and with a thunderous blow he once again knocked Canin Rosse to the ground, this time with a power kick to the man’s chest.
“He won’t, Miss Truscott,†he answered her confidently.
“You just agreed with President Able will not win this fight. Your warrior is outmatched by the Mandrill’s sakhan,†she argued.
“I only agreed he may be outmatched.†he said carefully correcting her “I’m fully confident in his ability to win the Trial, Miss Truscott,†Damien Redburn supplied further as his eyes met those of the elderly Aemelia Showers, who answered with a simple nod in his direction. “Watch and see,†he enigmatically added.
A few moments later, as saKhan Jacob Faraday’s control of the Trial of Grievance seemed to be cemented, he suddenly shook his head and raised his hands to the sky, as if in a signal. At that moment, the battered McKinnon. Charging the far-taller Clan warrior, he speared the man’s midsection and hooked his hands behind Jacob’s knees, causing the Elemental-stock Clan warrior to land on his back.
It was the beginning of the end for Jacob Faraday then, as the Davion soldier rained down punch after punch on the man’s face and into his ribs as the larger warrior feigned attempts at defending himself. Soon, Jacob turned himself to face the ground, seemingly to protect his battered face, presenting his back to the battered Davion soldier. Grabbing the larger man in a choke hold, Canin just as quickly snapped the man’s neck, ending the life of the last of those who had planned the Cauldron of Blood.
“That ended quickly,†the Raptor warrior acknowledged. “A bit too quickly,†she added suspiciously as the other Federated Suns soldiers in the crowd rushed forward to help their battered commander.
“It preserves the honor of my clan, Star Colonel,†Khan Aemelia Showers informed the other female warrior after wading through the crowd seeing anger on many faces but also an acknowledgment of something. The victor did not seem to be celebrating either “he was already dead the moment he decided to turn against his own clan.â€
“He turned against the Mandrills, quiaff,†Justine asked, perplexed, this was something the Mandrills had done well to keep quiet.
“Aff. He was the lover of Cassandra Faraday, the warrior who led us here to the Collection. After her death, he turned against the alliance she herself sacrificed her life for working against the future of their nation.†She said it was strange using that term for both Aemelia and for Justine neither her Fire Mandrills or the recently transformed Sphinx Raptors were used to being on their own now they were part of something... bigger. “Once I made it known to him he had betrayed what Cassandra Faraday had fought for, as surkei he offered to lose this Trial of Grievance to make amends for the lives that were lost in the Cauldron of Blood,†Aemelia informed the other woman.
“And what of the others who planned the Cauldron of Blood, Khan,†Redburn gruffly asked.
“Dead by Jacob Faraday’s hands,†the Mandrill Khan answered the Federated Suns ambassador to the Collection. “With Jacob Faraday’s death, the honor and lives of those who died in the Cauldron of Blood has finally been avenged, Ambassador.â€
A long moment passed by before Damien Redburn closed his eyes and nodded to the aging elderly Khan. “And with his death, the honor of your Clan has been whipped clean,†Redburn agreed, as he offered his right hand out for a shake. “And now my people can return home knowing those who have died here have been avenged. And the people of the Federated Suns know there is honour here.â€
“Seyla,†the elderly Khan of the Mandrills agreed as she shook Redburn’s hand in a warrior’s handshake. Around them, warriors from Clans Fire Mandrill and Sphinx Raptor answered in kind.
Soon after the end of the Trial the AFFS troopers returned to their WarShip and then traveled to base on Gillfillian's Gold. There after a year long deployment the Fox's Teeth, Delta Company and the FSS Ferdinand packed up what they were returning home with and left the periphery nation heading for home to the Federated Suns through the Lyran Commonwealth.
As they left Gillfillian's Gold crowds of people gathered to watch and quietly applause the AFFS troops they had not come here to change how the nation operated, they had not come to challenge why they had accepted Clansmen into their nation, instead the AFFS troopers had gained the intelligence they had required, they had learned more about the Rim Collection and what was happening on this side of the periphery than they would have ever learned through reports, and now they were leaving as promised. A small detachment would be remaining to protect Ambassador Damien Redburn and the new Federated Suns Embassy under construction there a single BattleMech Lance and a platoon of Battle Armour. As time went by the AFFS would rotate these troops allowing them to return home or they would transport their families to Gillfillian's Gold if that was the choice they preferred.
Already President Able had offered significant concessions to the Federated Suns regarding property and investments making it more appealing for their Federated Suns and by extension the AFFS to invest in the Rim Collection. Able knew that having one of the Succession States, especially one with close ties to their nearby neighbour the Lyran Commonwealth, could not hurt his small nation and he intended on making it very easy for the Federated Suns to maintain their position here.
DefHes weapons testing facility
West Barrens, Hesperus II
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
13th December 3098
The group of engineers and sponsors stood watching as a pair of Axman BattleMechs stepped into view. Across from them was a single Atlas BattleMech. Both Axman's raised their arms they each held a single weapon firing a single large missile both traveled quickly striking the chest of the Atlas causing armour damage. “As you can see the smallest of this new weapon system can be carried comfortably by a sixty ton BattleMech like the Axman. This weapon hits with as much power as a small short range missile system.†The announcer said seeing the audience was not too impressed. “What you may not be able to see from this distance is that the missiles have penetrated the armour causing internal damage.†He said seeing that watchers were more impressed but still not what they had expected. “Alpha One use primary weapons†he said into his radio mouthpiece the first Axman dropped its hand-held weapon firing weapons from each of its arms. Missiles flew from each arm on the Axman towards the Atlas both striking the Atlas causing significantly more damage. On the Atlas' left side there was a small internal explosion “as you can say in this case the armour has taken significantly more damage and under the armour. In this particular case†he said looking at a small hand held data pad “the Atlas' Long Range Missile ammunition bay has been destroyed.†He said seeing the information on the damage caused “fortunately in this case that weapon's bay is empty. Alpha Two fire primary weapon go for a head shot.†He said the second Axman dropped its hand-held launcher firing one of its arm mounted missile launchers the missile flew through the air striking the Atlas' head moments later the entire head section of the Mech exploded into a ball of flame causing the Mech to fall to the ground.
The audience stood in stunned silence looking at the crumpled one hundred ton BattleMech “fortunately today the Atlas had no pilot it was entirely remotely controlled.†He said suddenly the mood within the audience changed and there was a raising applause from the crowd. “The largest of the Headhunter Missiles is designed to decapitate a fully armoured BattleMech head killing its pilot. And like the streak missile system it will not fire unless it achieves a lock on target.â€
“Impressive†one of the observers said “the original concept came from the Star League correct?â€
“Yes, it was originally developed by the Star League Defence Force however over time it fell out of use and we believe the Clans have completely abandoned the concept.â€
“Surprising do you believe there is any reason behind that?†He asked
“The system is heavy compared to other missile systems, even our own weapons, they are also expensive and like the Thunderbolt Missile system they are extremely vulnerable to Anti-Missile Systems which are numerous in the Clans and more popular in today's units.â€
“So it has limited utility†he said “and what do we owe the Star League Defence Force for this system?â€
“Nothing†he answered “the system is based on the Star League's weapon but since the new SLDF has no access to the original Headhunter system we have had to develop it from scratch.â€
“An Impressive feat Dr Lane. When will it be ready for deployment?†The man said addressing him directly for the first time.
“The hand-held weapons are ready for deployment†Harold Lane explained “each version of the Headhunter can be built as a hand-held weapon.†He said hand-held weapons were not the most popular of weapons systems with the armed forces. “The smallest can be carried by a medium design while larger versions are restricted to heavy and assault designs those using Triple Strength Myomers can make better utility of them.â€
“Very good and production variants?â€
“Depending on the factories output and designers desires we should be able to build BattleMechs using the system soon.â€
“Very well to you and your teamâ€
“Thank you, Mr Brewster†Lane said to DefHes CEO who was already in motion.
“Ladies and gentlemen get onto LCAF and SLDF Quartermasters see how much interest you can spur up. If the SLDF try to strong arm you point out that this is made with good old Lyran know how†he said glancing to Lane “so they can pay just like everyone else.†He said gaining smirks from the others “reach out to our partners the other states see how much they are willing to pay as well.â€
“We're going to pass it to our enemies?â€
“If we don't someone else will†Brewster said with a smile “we should be making the most out of our engineers good work.â€
Salvage Operation, DS Spirit Shadow
Spirit, Independent system
Former-Free Worlds League
30th December 3098
Standing on the bridge of the Spirit Shadow, an Overlord-class DropShip, Captain Petr Surnov watched the sensor screens as their target approached. The other three DropShips of the Shadow Guard Mercenary command were arrayed along the projected orbit of the rogue League-class Destroyer. The vessel's elliptical orbit was slowly bringing the ship into range but the planet's orbit had altered its speed and stability. In an effort to catch the vessel the Shadow Guard's DropShip's had arranged themselves along the projected course traveling at different speeds the Spirit Shadow was the first DropShip in the line as the ship approached. “Open port side cargo bay doors on fighter and BattleMech baysâ€
“The ship's approaching rapidly†the helm officer said
“Accelerate to 2.5G acceleration†Surnov ordered the ship's main engines fired at their maximum force as the League approached the DropShip's position.
“Target vessel at fourteen hundred metres, twelve hundred metres, one thousand metresâ€
“Prepare all grapple lines on my command fire†he ordered
“Four Hundred metres, the are approaching fast, two hundred metres. She's away to pass by usâ€
“Fire all lines†Surnov ordered along the Overlord's port side eight grapple lines fired from the side of the vessel four struck the forward starboard hull of the incoming destroyer. The half a million ton vessel continued to move through space rapidly passing the far smaller DropShip.
“Four hits, we have tension on the lines, they're dragging us forward†the tactical officer said as the Destroyer began to overtake them “we can't put people on board with her going that fast.â€
“Reverse thrust†Surnov said “let's slow them down†he said the DropShip's thrust cut to 2G acceleration slowly after a couple of moments the ship was rocked heavily.
“One of our lines are down! We've got a hull breach the line dragged its way through section thirty-two!†The tactical officer shouted suddenly the ship was rocked a second time as a second line was ripped from the side of the ship.
“Accelerate back to maximum thrust!†Surnov shouted as a third line was torn from the side of the ship.
“It's too late!†The tactical officer shouted as a fourth line was torn from the side of the ship along with a significant part of the port side hull. Moments later one of the engine thrusters tore its way away from the ship sending the Union spinning away from the WarShip out of control.
“Damage control teams move out†Surnov called out from his command chair as the DropShip was hit by further hull breaches and explosions. “Hopefully the others have more luck†he said more to himself than anything as the WarShip continued forward.
Nearly ten minutes later the DropShip approached the command's second Overlord-class vessel eight more grapple lines fired seven of which connected with the Destroyer. The second set of lines connected with WarShip but the lines began to buckle as the WarShip began to slow. “First Team heading over†the ship's commander said as the first four Battle Armour troopers began to move across towards the WarShip using the guide lines to get to the destroyer. Another two lines snapped away from the DropShip “the team is on board†the Overlord's CO said triumphantly as the the last lines broke away fortunately the damage done to the second vessel was not nearly as bad as the damage done to the Spirit Shadow.
The League-class WarShip continued forward approaching the Shadow Guard's last Overlord, Blackbird, if they failed to stop the ship then the Battle Armour squad on board would be on their own. “This is squad one the ship is wrecked inside most systems are destroyed or they've been ripped out†the lead trooper said “it's a miracle this thing stayed in on course.â€
“If your team cannot make headway with the systems evacuate†Tim Storm, the unit CO ordered.
“Yes sir, we have one section to check.â€
“Understood†the CO said as the League approached the third and last Overlord. Lines flew from the Overlord's port side striking the front of the League. Unlike before this Overlord turned quickly decelerating at the same time intent on breaking the ship's orbit. Slowly the momentum built up by the Overlord's turn and sudden acceleration began to have an effect on the Destroyer turning the half a million ton vessel off its course.
“Whatever you guys are doing we're feeling an effect we're breaching the Command Deck.†The team leader said a few minutes later “sir the systems are shot in here until this ship stops moving we need to get off, we're evacuating.â€
“Lines are coming loose, we've lost three lines†the third Overlord's CO said.
“We'll be clear in minutes†the Battle Armour commander said as long as one of the Overlords was attached the WarShip's course could be controlled a little.
“This is Red Shadow, we are moving in on your position, eight minutes until intercept†the commander of the second DropShip replied their DropShip wasn't as badly damaged as the first vessel. Now with the League's speed reduced and its course predictable the second DropShip could catch up and assist.
“We're down to two lines but speed is reducingâ€
“Red Shadow come in along their port side fire lines when ready†the DropShip's commander said “if we are still attached we will begin acceleration in tandem with you. Remaining two lines are holding in two minutes we will be able to attach further lines.â€
“Understood moving up now, Blackbird, we're seeing a slight variation in her roll can you confirm?†The Red Shadow's commander asked.
“Roger, our turn has put a show roll on the hull to port you would be best to match roll and attach to the hull on the opposite side from us.â€
“Moving in now†the Red Shadow began to slip into a course paralleled to the other Overlord and to the League then as the ship rolled the Red Shadow matched her movements rolling on her side to keep her on approximately the opposite side of the ship from the Blackbird “firing lines†he said from the side of the Red Shadow eight lines attached to the League's hull. As the destroyer was traveling at a slower speed now the lines embedded themselves in the battered hull and were able to gain a hold “cable's attached ready for accelerationâ€
“Standby, Red Shadow, second set of lines heading over to the League.†The Blackbird's commander said as further lines connected the DropShip to the destroyer. “Cables attached and good hold. Begin acceleration.†In tandem the two Overlords began to burn their engines in the opposite direction from the League's course slowly reducing the speed of the other ship.
Due to its size and built up speed the destroyer took nearly thirty minutes to slow to a relative stop in an area of dead space nearly two days distant from the planet Spirit. The mercenaries would need to employ some Tug craft to properly control the ship's movements until they were able to repair her their Overlords were not designed for this kind of operation and all three showed signs of damage. As the crews breathed a sigh of relief their communications systems activated “Blackbird this is Boarding Team One.â€
“Go ahead Boarding team, we'll get a shuttle to come and pick you up send location.†The DropShip's communication officer replied in all the efforts to stop the destroyer they'd lost track of the boarding party.
“We're on deck nine of the destroyer, sir, we were unfortunately unable to vacate the wreck before you stopped her. I am speaking to you now, with all members of my boarding team intact, from the Shadow Guard's newest ship Stormchaser.†The squad leader said triumphantly on board the Blackbird Colonel Tim Storm could just imagine the smile on the man's face looking around, the bridge of the DropShip, he could see no-one disagreeing with the name.
“Colonel Storm, to Stormchase, welcome to the Guards.†He said leading to cheers throughout the ship. The mercenaries had paid for this wreck with blood, sweat and tears looking at it Tim Storm believed that they would pay more for it in the months and years ahead but for now they had a home to call their own and they had a WarShip; something not many mercenaries could claim.
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The Headhunter Missile System
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/headhunter-missile-system/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/headhunter-missile-system/)
End of 3098 WarShip list
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/msg39028/#msg39028 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/activedestroyed-warship-list/msg39028/#msg39028)
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3099
Interstellar Expeditions Survey Flight
Versailles, Crucis March
Federated Suns
14th January 3099
The DropShip Proofreader approached the dead world of Versailles sitting on the bridge Captain Charlie Hamilton glanced around “ladies and gentlemen†he said to the other three crew members “we are now approaching the fourth planet on our survey of nothing. I personally would like to thank House Davion for their assistance, for their money and for a boring time.†He said as the ship slowly turned slipping into orbit over Versailles. “Watson, begin planetary scan†he ordered.
When over a dead world like this the Proofreader was like a spec completely insignificant and barely noticed on the size of the world. Versailles was a dead world destroyed during the Succession Wars, for a time the AFFS had used it as a testing ground and as a dumping ground for units too battle damaged for service, now after centuries the planet laid dead. Radiation and chemicals from the units dumped here made the world uninhabitable but it also messed with DropShip scanners. The Proofreader's systems had been specifically calibrated for this job which along with everything else was being paid by the AFFS. It seemed that since the discovery of the Ruins of Gabriel, the Sharpe system and the Dragon Lords Brigade House Davion was hyper paranoid about what else was hidden from their eyes.
“Anyone have any ideas how to spend the next twenty-four hours?†He asked glancing around after every orbit of the planet they would need to adjust their course but for the most part the sensors would do their job all by themselves.
“We could analyze the data as it comes in†Carmen St. Clair suggested
“Anything else?†Hamilton asked glancing at the other two crewmen. Moments later a series of naval laser blasts speared the sky around them. “See I knew someone would find something interesting!†He shouted leaning back over to the controls as another series of naval lasers fired two struck the DropShip spearing their way through the cargo bay.
“We've got hull breaches communication links to cargo bay are down!â€
“Taking evasive maneuvers†Hamilton said as a third barrage of lasers sliced through the sky another striking the DropShip's left side ripping open the hull. “I'm losing power!†Hamilton called as he vainly attempted to turn the DropShip away from the planet into space “send to the JumpShip, planet hostile extreme caution advised.†He ordered glancing back at the communication officer who was already attempting to send the message as a fourth barrage of lasers tore up from the ground meeting with DropShip. In moments the vessel was consumed with fire as the lasers pierced the hull destroying the vessel.
Public Disturbance
Orestes, Orestes District
Rasalhague Dominion
22nd January 3099
“WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?†The protester screamed looking up at the Constable suit “THOSE WERE OUR WORLDS! THOSE WERE OUR PEOPLE!†He screamed thumping his fist against the Battle Armour's chest. Across the line of twenty-five Constable Battle Armour troopers people pushed against the line there were nearly six hundred protesters in the square all of them angry at recent losses to Clan Coyote.
“WHO SAYS YOU CAN BARTER AWAY OUR WORLDS IN YOUR GAMES!†Another screamed throwing vegetables at the Constables. “We held these worlds against the Wolves and Jade Falcons for you to give them away! WE SAY NO! WE SAY NO!†The protester shouted all around the others began to chant the same three words.
“Point Three, to Point One, the crowd is becoming problematic†one of the troopers reported to their commander.
“Our orders are to hold so we hold†the Point Commander said the recent loss of Udea, Karbala and Meachem to Clan Coyote had riled up the native population in the Orestes District. On six separate worlds the Dominion was dealing with well organized public disorder. "All units we have authorization to act ONLY if the crowd becomes violent acknowledge." He said resulting in twenty-four green lights blinking off and then on in a silent reply.
“Yes, sir†the questioning trooper replied their orders were to ensure the rioters did not damage governing buildings. The people of these worlds were not used to the Rasalhague Dominion losing territory after holding on so long as the Free Rasalhague Dominion they had turned to the Ghost Bears for protection. Overall it had been a good deal for the people until now.
Prisoner Transfer
Dante, Snow Raven Encampment
Raven Alliance
25th January 3099
After more than a year in space on board Snow Raven space vessels it felt strange to Lieutenant Octavia Lantz to be back on solid ground. Her and the other seventy-one members of the MSC Discovery who had surrendered to the Snow Raven WarShip Spur in the Gannet system. On board the Spur and the other Raven ships they had been constantly reminded that they were now freeborn prisoners, to the point she'd begun to forget her family name, but since landing on Dante they had been well treated now they were mustered in a typical looking Clan room devoid of much decoration. Following a short wait the doors opened and in entered two large Elementals dressed in Battle Armour lacking their missile launchers followed by a young man dressed in the simple jumpsuit of a Snow Raven Warrior. “Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention please†he said in a clear voice “my name is Jason Evans, I am a freeborn warrior of the Raven Alliance.†He said seeing their surprise “Evans is not a Snow Raven Bloodname I retain my freeborn family name in my status with the Raven Alliance. In time if you become warriors of our nation it is possible that you will also regain your family names for now you are bondsmen to our Clan it is you duty to follow the rules, learn our ways and prove that you can be good additions to our nation.†He said glancing around the group for a moment his eyes met Octavia's there was a small moment between them before he left the room followed by the two Elementals. The crew of the Discovery had a long way to go to before they would be accepted as Clan warrior in the Raven Alliance.
Appointment, Geneva Medical Institute
Geneva, Switzerland
Terra, Star League Protectorate
29th January 3099
At twenty years old Dr. Dana Carlyle, daughter of Alexander and Samantha Carlyle the joint owners of the Grey Death Legion, becomes a member of the surgical team in Geneva. Despite her families history in the mercenary trade she sees science, medicine and peace as the future for her race.
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New Earth Rangers Playing Ground
New Foundation, New Earth
Star League Protectorate
9th February 3099
It was a beautiful summer's day the New Earth Rangers Playing Ground was packed with spectators for this end of season game against the Pike City Guardians. As the crowd waited for the two soccer teams to come out there was a series of bangs from the East End Stand to begin with people thought it was fireworks being let off early to celebrate the event but there were no flashes in the sky. Moments later there was another series of bangs followed by screams and an explosion which engulfed the East End Stand.
Out of the flames six white Battle Armoured figures appeared the sidearm armed security staff having no chance against the troopers as they opened fire on the fleeing civilians. From the far side of the stadium witnesses and security camera footage told of the battle armoured troopers gunning down hundreds of people before entering the flaming stand. The New Earth Guard Regiment mobilized to assist the civilians but by that time the attackers had disappeared. In total sixteen hundred civilians had been killed directly, by the attackers, or indirectly, by the fire, and the New Earth Rangers Stadium had been destroyed.
Mercenary Contract
Spirit, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
13th February 3099
The Shadow Guard Mercenary Command accept a contract defending the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth from Clan Wolf. They leave a Combined-arms Battalion and two DropShips in the Spirit system along with their crippled League Block II-class Destroyer. The world of Spirit is officially added to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's holdings as part of their contract the Shadow Guard gain the lease of a Tug-class DropShip to help move their newly salvaged vessel. The presence of the League gains attention from across the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth with several interests in the vessel.
Warrior Assembly, Meeting Hall
Tukayyid, Clan Space Inner Sphere
Occupation Zones
19th February 3099
Loremaster of the Clans Zane Carns stood in front of the First Eridani Lancers Cluster, a Nova Cat unit they had taken from Clan Goliath Scorpion, looking over the warrior he guessed the average age of the command was in the late forties at least. “Warriors, not all of you chose to be Clan warriors and none of you chose to be Nova Cat warriors, I have been authorized by our Khans to make you this offer.†He said looking at them some were Goliath Scorpion by birth, others were originally of the Eridani Light Horse and others still were of the Filtvelt Guardians. All in all few of them had adapted to the ways of the Nova Cat and other units often took offense to them. “Any of you who no longer wishes to be a Clan warrior may take their leave a transport will be provided on the next Sea Fox vessel bound for Hamilton in the Lyran Commonwealth, alternatively if you wish to remain as a Clan warrior but not remain within our Clan you may join the Ebon Keshik defending Tukayyid from aggression.†He said seeing their surprise “there will be no Trials of Grievance taken against you for your choices.†He said finally before walking out of the room leaving them to their decision. Nearly three hours later the last member of the Cluster had made their decision most of the elder Eridani warriors including Star Colonel Sandra (Barclay) had decided to return to the Inner Sphere, the former Goliath Scorpions and surprising all six Filtvelt warriors had chosen to remain as Clan warriors joining the Ebon Guard Clusters forming the core for the Seventh Ebon Guard Cluster.
SLDS Patrick O'Connor (Overlord-class DropShip)
Denbar, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
22nd February 3099
The SLDS Patrick O'Connor was an Overlord-class DropShip being used as a cargo transport. All of its Mechbays were empty instead replaced with medical supplies, blankets and food. It was not how Captain Martin La Saile liked to spend his time serving the SLDF but it needed to be done.
“Capt, we've got an inbound Lung Wang-class DropShip.â€
“An assault ship?†La Saile said quietly “could they be heading for the jump point?â€
“If they are they are on a direct intercept course.â€
“Should we launch aerospace fighters?†The ship's airboss asked although the DropShip was carrying cargo in its Mechbays it still carried its complement of aerospace fighters as an escort.
“Negative, Lieutenant, we're all friendly here. Communications pass to the Capellan vessel we are delivering medical supplies to the planet.â€
“No response sir†moments later the Lung Wang's forward weapons array lit up firing three Sub-Capital lasers past the front of the Overlord.
“Combat alert!†Saile ordered “Capellan vessel we are here to assist the people of Denbar, we have no hostile intent.â€
“SLDF Vessel you have entered a restricted area†the response came almost immediately it sounded almost automated “you will reverse your course or be fire upon.â€
“We are delivering medical suppliesâ€
“Sir, we're being painted with hostile Electronic Warfare†La Saile looked at the screens fully believing that the Capellan vessel was ready to fire.
“Helm, turn us about set a course back to the Jump Point, today is not our day. I'll draft a report to send to SLDF Command they are going to want to know about this. Communications send to the ground forces we'll be back and next time we'll have support with us.†He promised the crew the Capellans had upped the stakes with an assault DropShip fine La Saile would push for a WarShip escort next time. As far as he knew the SLDF personnel on the ground had not come under direct threat. Unfortunately that did not last two days later, before the Patrick O'Connor had left the system, the SLDF ground forces were ordered to leave Denbar or be fire upon without orders to resist and without naval support the SLDF disaster crews and medical staff retreated off planet.
Clan Enclave
Terra Firma, Star League Protectorate
26th February 3099
A small group of Clan Wolf warriors and civilians join the Hell's Horses on Terra Firma adding to the small Clan enclave there. Along with them come a star of BattleMechs and two points of Elementals. The SLDF garrison on planet watch the Clansmen carefully however with the Duke of Terra Firma's support for the Clansmen they cannot do much about them instead they are forced to remain observing the small enclave.
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Hmm..... Wonder who is this group of battlesuit terrorist? Hmm..... Looks like the SLDF is being shoved around by the CCAF! I am really wondering what you have coming up in your next several updates! Your story is slowly simmering and looking forward to see how it erupts! Keep it up!
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Hmm..... Wonder who is this group of battlesuit terrorist? Hmm..... Looks like the SLDF is being shoved around by the CCAF! I am really wondering what you have coming up in your next several updates! Your story is slowly simmering and looking forward to see how it erupts! Keep it up!
Check out XTRO Most Wanted ;)
Marian Border Raids
Former-Free Worlds League
7th March 3099
The Marian Hegemony strike at six worlds in the Rim Association and the Outer League Alliance including a raid against the Twin Sons. The attack on the Twin Sons marks the first time another nation had interfered with in the battle for the planet interfering with the fighting occurring between the North and South. The Marian units are bigger and better armed than the local units and they are able to salvage multiple weapons and units from the defenders unfortunately for the Marians their DropShip is not made for the Twin Sons atmosphere slowing them enough for the defenders to overrun their Landing Zone and capture the raiders.
Taurus Territorial Industries
Orbital Facility, Sterope
Taurian Concordat
11th March 3099
After five years producing the one hundred-and-ninety thousand ton Hyades-class JumpShip for the Taurian Concordat Taurus Territorial Industries produce a special Hyades using a Compact Jump Drive giving the vessel significantly more cargo space and enough space to feature point defences weapons. As the Concordat does not have access to maneuvering drives large enough to propel a vessel the size of the Hyades at more than station-keeping speeds the vessel is a one-off proof of concept design proving that Taurus Territorial could build KF Drives for WarShips.
Interstellar Expeditions Briefing
Tikonov, Crucis March
Federated Suns
15th March 3099
In the presence of Crucis March Field Marshal Paul Bowman, General Allan Fisher of the Tikonov DMI Office and the SLDF commander of the Seventy-Seventh Special Operations Group Colonel Bekkard Jamieson Project Leader Angela Wells of the Interstellar Expeditions put across a nightmare scenario for the AFFS and the SLDF.
“So what you are saying is that during a routine survey your DropShip disappeared?†Paul Bowman asked
“No, what I am saying is our DropShip has been shot down. We took our JumpShip into another uninhabited system when we returned our DropShip was gone. We sent a small craft through the system and found no indication it had landed on any planet but there was debris around thae planet that was once inhabited.â€
“So a technical malfunction did you find the ship's recorder?â€
“Negative it was gone†Angela Wells said “they are virtually indestructible. Even when a DropShip that is hit with WarShip grade weapons these recorders survive.â€
“What do you suggest?†Bekkard Jamieson asked
“That they were removed by the inhabitants of Versailles.â€
“That planet is dead†Fisher declared
“But Interstellar Expeditions were hired to check these systems out. Field Marshal I came to you because this potential threat comes from your March.â€
“I know and I appreciate that†Bowman admitted the First Prince had hired Interstellar Expeditions to check the Federated Suns uninhabited systems placing them under the directions of the March Field Marshals. Interstellar Expeditions could have requested a meeting directly with the First Prince over the loss of their DropShip but they had respected his position. “General, this could be a lost group of Federated Suns citizens, or it could be something more sinister, regardless I would prefer if your people were on hand?â€
“The Seventy-seventh have mobilized they will be ready when you are.â€
“Thank you, General Fisher?â€
“We have three Special Operations MI6 Battalions ready for deployment. I have coordinated our preparations with Admiralty command we will have orbital support should it be required.â€
“Hopefully it will not get to that stage†Bowman said “I do not want to have to explain to the First Prince that we used Naval Weaponry on one of our own planets.â€
“Only if required†Fisher agreed there was several moments of silence between the two before the SLDF representative spoke.
“Just as well you have support available our units are unfortunately tied up with monitoring Capellan movements.â€
“House Hasek had the Capellans in order, I am sure that they would take them back if you wished to pull out of the area†Bowman began.
“If only we could unfortunately the people wish us to stay†the SLDF General replied “we can still assist you as long as a WarShip doesn't turn up.â€
“Our WarShips will deal with them.†Fisher promised
“Then it is settled we act†Bowman said “get your people ready.â€
Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad Shipyard
High Orbit, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd March 3099
Using their experience with the Peter-class Scout Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad produce their second class of vessel dubbed Isis-class Scout Carrier. Almost five times the size of the Peter-class, at twenty-five thousand tons, the vessel is intended on acting as a cross between a Scout vessel and a light carrier. It is fully jump capable using its advanced Sub-Compact KF Drive it is able to carry six small craft of aerospace fighters and a small complement of Battle Armour troopers. Built to resemble a large aerodyne type DropShip the Isis-class is not a front-line WarShip but a versatile addition to the Lyran Commonwealth's fleet. Immediately seeing potential in the craft the Lyran Commonwealth buys a production run of six vessels including the first vessel before its trials are complete the vessel is named the LCS Isis Steiner after Archon Peter Steiner-Davion's wife.
Expansion
Caphai, Periphery
28th March 3099
Through their links on Carcri and Pegasi Clan Nova Cat learn of the inhabited world of Caphai in the nearby periphery region. Unlike the other two worlds Caphai had hired a significant defence force and almost every member of the population had their own weapon. Intent on occupying Caphai and bringing it into the Nova Cat's Den the Clan deployed two Clusters of units made up purely of Battle Armour and ProtoMech units.
The planetary defence force made up of two BattleMech lances and nearly a Battalion of vehicles and infantry troopers attempted to resist the Nova Cats however the Clan units were superior to the periphery units in both training and technology. In three hours all resistance was put down with the Nova Cats demanding that all arms held by the citizens of Caphai be surrendered any firearm not surrendered would result in imprisonment, any attack on a Nova Cat warrior, technician, scientist or trader will be answerable with death.
Pirate Battles
Astrokaszy, Periphery
31st March 3099
On Astrokaszy the ruling Tortugan Phalanx defends the planet from a Marian Hegemony raid in force. Across the planet units carrying symbols of ancient Terra's Greek and Roman armies battle for domination. For days on end the two sides battle before the Marians retreat off planet having gained little more than a bloodied nose. The Tortugan Phalanx have proven that they going to be remaining on Astrokaszy for the long term and that it is now their home. Following Marian raids against the Former-Free Worlds League earlier in the month it proves that the Hegemony is not going to disappear into nothing despite many reversals.
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New Unit the Isis-class Scout Carrier
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/isis-class-scout-carrier/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/isis-class-scout-carrier/)
Hopefully have a proper update over the next week or so.
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Border Raids
Outer League Alliance
Former-Free Worlds League
5th April 3099
The Lyran Commonwealth remind their neighbouring worlds that despite the fall of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey and their “re-branding†as the Outer League Alliance that the Lyran Commonwealth has gone nowhere. Raiding the worlds of Griffith, Promised Land and Dalcour the Lyrans deploy their successor to the Hetzer Jagdpanzer, German for the Hunting Panther, with the Hetzer Jagdpanzer II a forty-five ton armoured vehicle. This vehicle is a massive success with the Lyran strikes providing their armour forces with a sniper unit capable of hurting enemy units with its Gauss Rifle. Following the completion of the raids the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces order several batches of the unit from Quickcell boosting the company further. Internally to Quickcell is that they can reinvest in this successful vehicle leading to further developments.
Liberation Raids
Wolf Empire
10th April 3099
Unlike the Lyran Commonwealth's border raids against the Outer Worlds Alliance which had seen not a single world changed hands or a unit destroyed the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and SLDF had planned longer for a more serious raid against the Wolf Empire.
Targeting Gallatin at one end of Wolf space and Midkiff further along the border six Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Regiments, four mercenary commands (including Daniel's Avengers), two supporting SLDF Brigades and several WarShips quickly overrunning three Wolf clusters defending these two worlds. The Marik-Stewart Commonwealth also moves to reinforce Autumn Wind which is still contested with the Wolves.
SLS Shining Claw (Congress Block II-class Frigate)
Versailles, Crucis March
Federated Suns
18th April 3099
In the Versailles system a combined SLDF/AFFS Task Force had approached the planet that everyone had thought was uninhabited. Ahead of the SLS Shining Claw a series of surface fired Naval Laser blasts tore through the rear of the Hound-class Corvette the FSS Tikonov II. So far the ground based defence batteries had torn into all five WarShips assigned to the assault but the Tikonov II was the first true casualty.
Watching the monitors Admiral Chris Henry commander of the SLDF's two WarShips and their support squadrons was impassive as the other WarShip lost all power to its engines and began to drift towards the planet's atmosphere. “Pass to AFFS units Tikonov II is going down we will move to cover recovery operations. Pass to the Commanding-General to land his forces beneath our fire. Helm move us into orbit. All weapons batteries fire at will there is no civilian targets on the ground so blanket the ground with fire.†He ordered alongside the Shining Claw the FSS Nathan Duvall, an Federated Suns Naval vessel of the same class, moved in as well both vessels opened fire on the planet even as the FSS Tikonov II began to enter the atmosphere.
Behind the two WarShips a dozen DropShips of both the SLDF and AFFS streamed towards the surface surrounded by aerospace fighters. As they approached their Landing Zone defensive fire from ground positions and aerospace fighters moved in firing as they approached. The defending aerospace fighters moved to defend the DropShips while Mechs and Battle Armour began to jump clear of their descending DropShips.
Among the SLDF units leaping to the surface was a modified seventy-five ton Prefect BattleMech piloted by Commanding-General Victor Focht. Moving away from the landing zone SLDF and AFFS Mech and Battle Armour units mingled easily firing their weapons at fixed defences and emerging BattleMechs and Battle Armour defences even as orbital fire continued to rain down on the planet. Like the AFFS and SLDF the defenders had avoided using armoured vehicles on the planet due to the poisonous atmosphere. “Insertion teams as soon as we breach you are in. All hostiles are to be eliminated.†Victor ordered from his Mech as he fired the unit's arm mounted variable speed pulse laser into a Buccaneer BattleMech ripping open its armour he quickly followed up with a particle cannon blast and laser fire finishing off the Mech. Black coloured Battle Armour suits steamed into the facility even as more of the defenders fell. Victor's Mech was too large to go into the facility so he held back targeting another enemy Mech an older styled Raijin Medium BattleMech even as Victor launched his attack against the unit he tagged three more with his Mech's Targeting Computer and boosted the ECM Suite's ghost targets. At the same time the Commanding-General tuned his radio into the frequency used by the Battle Armour units inside the facility.
A mix of voices filled the airwaves as the Battle Armour units engaged their enemies room to room with support and anti-personnel weapons. By the sound of it both sides were taking heavy casualties as each room was fought over the defenders had no intention of surrendering and the attackers had no intention on allowing them to remain.
“Focht to Shining Claw we've entered the facility halt bombardment hold perimetre.â€
“Ground Naval Laser batteries have been silenced, aerospace defences eliminated.†Henry replied as several final naval cannon and naval laser barrages landed slammed into the facility. Even as Victor Focht turned on his last target he could tell that the battle for the surface of Versailles was over now all that remained was the base itself which would take far longer.
Several hours of intense hand-to-hand combat continued inside the facility with at least a Battalion of each SLDF and AFFS Battle Armoured Special Forces being killed in the fighting taking over three hundred defenders with them. Not a single one of the defenders or engineers who had been within the facility had surrendered. What they had been defending was a BattleMech factory that rivaled most of those within the Federated Suns and most other Succession States with designs like the Gurkha, Buccaneer, Raijin, Legacy and Vanquisher constructed there.
The naval bombardment and then subsequent fighting inside the facility had destroyed several of the production lines but still the facility was vast and mostly intact. Given a few months and some work it was very likely that the facility would once again product fighting designs. As per the agreement between the SLDF and AFFS reconstruction costs and BattleMech production would be split fifty-fifty they had fought together to capture the facility and they would both reap the rewards for their successes.
Deep within the facility the attackers found nearly eight thousand civilians all family of the people who had worked in the factory and who had defended the facility. The AFFS placed them under Federated Suns protection citing that the facility and planet were deep within the Federated Suns. As the DMI and MIIO began the civilians debriefing they promised the SLDF and SLIC full disclosure on any further findings on the planet.
Clan Raids
Coyote Occupation Zone
25th April 3099
Intent on proving a point and showing up Clan Coyote the Hell's Horses launch an attack into their neighbouring Clan's OZ pushing into the systems of Vulcan, Skokie, Sevren and Colmar. On Vulcan and Sevren the Horses find themselves boxed in and turned back by the Coyote Clan who are intent on retaining control over the territory they gained from the Wolves.
On Skokie the Coyote defence disintegrates in the face of the Hell's Horses assault while on Colmar the Coyotes experience something that they have never before as the Horses debut their First Hoard Cluster. Commanded by Star Colonel Domnall Seidman the Hoard Cluster is a new concept for the Hell's Horses developed through the belief that speed and absolute firepower will overcome any enemy. Every OmniMech and vehicle of the cluster is capable of over ninety kilometres per hour and capable of transporting the units Battle Armour units including the new OmniMech the QuadMech Hellcat. An entire trinary of ProtoMechs is assigned to the force as is dozens of vehicles equipped with the new Fire Resistant armour used by the Horses.
Trained to follow the Mongol Doctrine, a growing movement in the Horses, that states that victory should be achieved by the use of mobility, fearless attack and the use of maximum firepower one any and all targets. On Colmar the Horses use this strategy to its maximum effectiveness tearing through the slower Coyote units time and again with the Hoard Cluster not once stopping to rearm or repair instead continuing forward even when their units fall in battle. This strategy proves so effective the Hell's Horses approve the formation of three more Hoard Clusters and the formation of the Fire Horse Galaxy.
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Nice update mate, spotted 1 typo - Hetzer Jagdpanzer II a forty-five ton armoured vehicle vehicle.
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Nice update mate, spotted 1 typo - Hetzer Jagdpanzer II a forty-five ton armoured vehicle vehicle.
Nah Nah it's a vehicle vehicle... :-\ honest :-[ :-X
Thanks for catch
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;D Yay an update finally! So the FS and SLDF has a new mech factory on a forgotten world. Wonder how long their enemies will try to take it? Keep up the stories!
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Nice update mate, spotted 1 typo - Hetzer Jagdpanzer II a forty-five ton armoured vehicle vehicle.
Nah Nah it's a vehicle vehicle... :-\ honest :-[ :-X
Thanks for catch
No worries.
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Another slightly delayed update hopefully you enjoy
Defensive battle
Hazelhurst, Hazelhurst PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
6th May 3099
Duke Fredrick Davion coughed heavily as smoke rose into his Rifleman's cockpit. The Mech's Clan technology had allowed him to stay active against the Snow Raven raiders but much of his LCT had not been so lucky. Stepping the heavy Mech forward he raised the left arm triggering the last of his Hyper Assault Gauss Rifle ammo cutting down a Phantom Medium OmniMech as it charged in. As the forty ton Mech stumbled and slammed into the ground Fredrick triggered both of his Mech's medium pulse lasers carving out the downed Mech's cockpit.
“Continue to push, we need to hold on a little bit longerâ€
“Boss, the militia has folded our right flank won't hold much longer.â€
“Our left side is holding†Fredrick said looking at his forces deployment “Armour and Battle Armour to the right flank all Mechs continue to push forward. Air support we could do with some of that right about now.â€
“We've been engaged sire we won't be helping you ground-pounders for a bit†Jordan Beckett said from the cockpit of her aerospace fighter.
“Great news†the Duke cursed quietly twisting his Mech's torso triggering his medium pulse lasers towards two low flying Horus VTOLs. The design was new in the Raven force but the DMI had been able to 'acquire' its design statistics a few months before. Fredrick Davion had simmed against the thirty ton VTOL several times since arriving on the border one of his lasers went wide while the other struck one of the aircraft's tail rotors causing damage to the aircraft. Unfortunately it wasn't critical and the aircraft continued to fly turning towards Fredrick's position moments later his Mech was showered with Short Range Missiles and Laser fire.
“You need to retreat sire†one of his bodyguard MechWarriors stated Fredrick couldn't disagree his Mech was more a skeleton than a combat Mech while it was also out of ammunition for its single remaining HAG Rifle.
“Find me another Mech that can fill this location!†He snapped trying to track the two Horus VTOLs firing his lasers again in a vain attempt to strike down the aircraft.
“Fredrick pull back†Captain Nikki Davion, his wife, pleaded him over the comm her Kruger Combat Cars were with the armour units heading for their right flank.
“Not yet†he stated looking around the battle an entire Clan Snow Raven BattleMech star were moving in on their position. “Gold Sword I need assistance†he said “orbital to ground fire on my position.â€
“Sire, we're heavily engaged by Snow Raven aerospace forces and I cannot fire on our own people.â€
“We won't be here†he promised “you need to be able to strike this position in forty seconds.â€
“We'll tryâ€
“Alright people when I say go we disengage all targets and pull back as quickly as we can.†He said “flanking units centre is going to dissolve completely hold your positions and pour fire on our enemies.†He said looking at the map screens “three, two, one now, now, now†he said “fall back! Gold Sword any time now would be very good.â€
“We're taking damage but we're ready†the Gold Sword's commander said “firing barrage†he reported as Fredrick's unit fell back several naval bombardment rounds slammed into the ground where his unit had been. The heavily damaged Rifleman stumbled but Fredrick refused to allow the Mech to go down instead continuing to retreat as more orbital fire splashed the Snow Raven forces shattering their advance. “Gold Sword to Davion, we're disengaging from ground support operations engaging aerospace forces.â€
“Thanks for the assist†Fredrick said turning his Mech the ground behind his Mech for hundreds of metres was pot-marked with craters created by the naval weapons fire. He could see several damaged or destroyed Mechs laying in or near these blast zones “more forward take out anything that remains active.†He ordered as his crippled centre force moved forwards crushing the surviving Snow Ravens both flanking units of the Fourth Ceti Hussars LCT reported that their enemies were falling back giving up their attempt to seize the planet. Soon after the Snow Ravens began boosting off the planet Fredrick Davion ordered the FSS Gold Sword to remain clear of the evacuating Clan force. Fighting off the Clan aerospace fighters and DropShips once had been enough the Robinson Block III had taken heavy damage and although still capable of fighting and moving by itself the ship would need weeks of shipyard scale repairs. Of his ground forces nearly two hundred of his people were dead or severely injured and the unit's Mech Battalion had been crippled with nearly seventy-five percent equipment losses and more than fifty percent personnel losses.
The Periphery War
Fronc Reaches, Periphery
11th May 3099
In events that would spark a greater war the Fronc Reaches launches a series of attacks on the Magistracy of Canopus securing several systems revealing that they held a much larger military than anyone had expected. Not expecting such aggression from the Fronc Reaches the Magistracy is caught completely flat footed and is forced to fall back within their borders.
The Periphery War
Marian Hegemony, Periphery
19th May 3099
With rumours of fighting in the Magistracy of Canopus, Fronc Reaches and Lothian League the Twin Sons system expands the fighting by retaliating against the Marian Hegemony claiming that the Periphery state is the last home of the Manei Domini. The Twin Sons units using civilian DropShips hired from within the Rim Association to transport an entire brigade of combined units from the Northern, Southern and Badland states of the Twin Sons. Together they launch an attack against the independent, Marian aligned, periphery world of Claudian and striking at multiple other worlds within the Marian Hegemony.
The lighter fuel-cell powered machines of the Twin Sons forces take heavy damage from the heavier units of the Marian Hegemony however they are able to make significant beachheads maintaining their position on the planets. On Lesnovo the Rim Association government are up in arms as they knew nothing of the Twin Sons plans at aggression or their intelligence on the Manei Domini remnants remaining within the Marian Hegemony.
Clan Restructuring
Hell's Horses Occupation Zone
23rd May 3099
Following months of movements within the Clan and a gearing towards the neighbouring Occupational Zones. The Hell's Horses abandon all twenty-six systems beyond the systems of Star's End and Toland leaving these planets and their populations to their own devices. The Hell's Horses restructure their defences with Star's End and Toland fortified from all threats both from the Occupation Zones and beyond.
Battle-site, Midkiff
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
29th May 3099
Looking over the aftermath of the battlefield Colonel Tim Storm looked over the dead Shadow Guard and Wolf units. His command had held back nearly two clusters of Wolves forcing them to retreat fortunately the WarShip the Wolves had brought into the system had only been used as a glorified transport and had removed the menacing wolves as quickly as it had brought them here. From the battlefield his people should be able to salvage a reinforced battalion of their lost equipment he hoped and prayed that they'd find some living personnel within those wrecks. Tim also knew that they would be able to recover some of the Clan weapons which he hoped he could trade to the Free Worlds League nations around them hopefully for additional payment or for items they could use to repair their League-class WarShip.
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Great update!
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Another slow update
Flashpoint
Community Square, Denbar City
Sian Commonality, Denbar City
2nd June 3099
As far as the eye could see there were people, people who were angry at the establishment, the riot had begun nearly three hours ago following the execution of three men who had spoken out against the Capellan Confederation and for Star League Protectorate rule. Now there were hundreds, thousands, of people screaming trying to force their way into the Denbar Government buildings. Holding the crowd back at nearly fifty metres were lines of Battle Armoured militia men and two anti-personnel vehicles.
Standing in line with his men Sang-Shao Miles Wayne stood upright suited in his battle armour suit which was covered in various types of food and liquid thrown against it by the crowd. “Sir, the crowd have not dissipated your orders?â€
“Your orders are to hold them where they are†Governor Rachel Winters stated.
“There is going to be civilian casualties if they continue to push against us the crowd are becoming agitated.â€
“Do whatever you need to keep them under control.â€
“Understood†Wayne said “Battalion one single forward step.†He ordered “no-one fires a shot we push them back and control them.†He ordered moments later each Battle Armoured trooper took a single step forward pushing the civilians back several stumbled back but collectively the crowd moved. “Another single step†he ordered together they moved as one forcing the crowd back once more. “And another†he said if they had to do this a single step at a time then they would.
“Sir we have stern resistance the crowd are becoming violent†an officer on his left flank reported.
“Contain the resistance†Wayne ordered “all other units forward step†he ordered. The line of troopers stepped forward with units stepping around the resistance. As one area of the crowd becomes isolated and the crowd realized that the resistance was holding up the CCAF and the violence slowly began to cascade along the line with civilians armed with kitchen utensils, bars of wood and rocks began to strike out at the battle armour.
“Sir, there is a growing violence†Wayne began
“You are employed to protect the Capellan Chancellor and control its people do your duty.†Rachel Winters ordered.
“Yes sir†Wayne said his mouth too dry to utter any further words he allowed his actions to speak for him. Raising his right arm and the machine gun encased there he pointed it into the air and fired the weapon over the crowd the people ducked out of the way out of reflex but there was little chance that any of them could be harmed by the fire. Along the line other battle armour troopers began doing the same firing off short bursts of their weapons into the air forcing the crowd back. “Forward step†he ordered.
“Sang-Shao Wayne explain your actions?â€
“I am ending the violence and driving these people back.â€
“By wasting ammunition? By making an unnecessary noise? Or just by allowing those who resist the Capellan state to disappear without repercussion? End this protest.â€
“Yes sir†he replied after several moments knowing what the woman wanted... it was insane. Orders were orders. Lowering his suit's arm he leveled it at the crowd as other troopers continued to fire into the air trying to disperse the crowd unfortunately they were having no success.
Miles Wayne stepped forward another step taking him clear of the battle armour line his arm still leveled at the assembled crowd. Despite this the crowd were still screaming in anger towards his suit and the others under his command. Miles focused on a young man he was between twenty-five and thirty years old he had dark skin, his hair was completely shaved off and he wore a white tank-top styled vest. Miles knew he probably did not want to see the Capellan Chancellor dead or the end of the Confederation but orders were orders. Breathing deeply he pulled the trigger sending a steam of bullets into the crowd the young civilian he had looked at was among the first to be cut down half a dozen others fell with him. Along the lines other battle armour troops did the same cutting down dozens of others.
“All units forward march.†Wayne ordered along the line the troopers began to step forward trampling over the fallen civilians as the crowd began to panic and run more and more civilians fell as the battle armour stepped forward. Nearly thirty minutes passed before the firing and death ended on the ground nearly eight hundred civilians laid dead. “What have we done...†Miles Wayne whispered.
“Your duty Sang-Shao†Rachel Winters cut in Miles Wayne glanced at the corner of his HUD seeing his comms were still active. 'Your duty' he thought looking over the bodies that laid at his feet his duty would be known as the Massacre of Denbar and quickly become infamous across human occupied space.
Civilian Unrest
Rasalhague Dominion
12th June 3099
Across the Inner Sphere far from the Capellan Confederation several planets are placed under martial law by Clan Ghost Bear as protesters take to the streets showing their anger at the loss of worlds to Clan Coyote. The Ghost Bears crack down harshly on several worlds maintaining their control and public order.
The Periphery War
Magistracy of Canopus, Periphery
19th June 3099
As the Fronc Reaches continue to attack the Magistracy of Canopus the small nation annexes the independent system of Joppa further increasing their territory. In an effort to take advantage of the Fronc Reaches distraction the Taurian Concordat enters the Periphery War launching an attack on their rear areas seizing the Portland system.
Trial of Refusal, Hell's Horses Trial Grounds
Csesztreg, Hell's Horses Occupation Zone
26th June 3099
Jake Kabrinski, Khan of Clan Hell's Horses, stood over his dead opponent looking at his opponent's body. “You picked the wrong path†he said quietly looking at the other assembled Horse warriors around him “I am Khan my decisions are final.†He said three warriors had challenged his decision to The Fire Horse Galaxy and its Horde Clusters. Word that he wished to form more of the units and assign at least one Hoard Cluster to each Galaxy had met even more resistance. “We are the Horses and the Mongol Doctrine will define this generation. We will push through the Coyotes and through the Jade Falcons and then we will strike fear into the Inner Sphere.â€
“Seyla†several of the warriors replied in response. Unlike the end of his first Trial of Refusal this time there was no further challenges Jake Kabrinski was victorious and the others were at a loss to challenge him.
Rebirth
The Ragnarok Union, Periphery
30th June 3099
On the worlds abandoned by the Hell's Horses a new nation arises from the ashes, The Ragnarok Union, formed around the worlds of Botany Bay, Last Chance and Gotterdammerung the nation grows in strength two days later with Erewhon and Lackhove. The new nation's leader Hu Xiao Lin, an eighty-nine year old former pirate who had somehow stayed alive through Jade Falcon and Hell's Horses rule also approached Von Strang's World but found that they were venomously rebuffed by the defenders of the planet who had heavily fortified Unity City, the planet's capitol.
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Hope you all enjoy the first part comes courtesy of James Tanaga ;) the mission calling comes from my ex who had the idea of adding something completely different for BT (while being respectful) and the Solaris VII winner comes from the recently put up English version of Fan-TRO Shadows of War
Fort Mayfield
Gilfillan’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
4th July 3099
Star Colonel Justine Truscott stood by the side of Galaxy Marshal Karen Able as they made small talk as both watched the Highlanders began to march out from their DropShip that had landed an hour ago under the rising sun of the cool morning on the Rim Collection’s capital planet of Gilfillan’s Gold, waiting to formally welcome the Highlanders to the Rim Collection. Able’s father had called in all the favors he could to the Northwind Highlanders for their Gurkha Battalion to come here and in the end he had to bribe them with Titan and Titan monitors; yet here they were to train her unit at last. As she watched the kilt-wearing dezgra mercs pile out of the DropShip, she continued the small talk with the Galaxy Marshal as she stretched her shoulders and arms, not yet used to the new uniforms. Able soon copied her motions.
Both were dressed in the new field uniforms of the Rim Collection, pants and jackets with camouflaged green and reds mixed in with dark red or green undershirts and green boots. The only differences in their uniform lay in their rank and unit badges and the headgear they were wearing; Able a standard field cap matching the camouflage of their uniforms and she a red beret signifying her as being Clan. Further behind them was the Monkey Khan, Aemelia Showers, who leaned against a tree as her arms were tucked across her chest, obviously still miffed to had to leave the Mandrill’s home on All Dawn for what she termed as welcoming potential enemies into the Collection. Justine for her part privately agreed with the aging Monkey Khan on that, if nothing else, these mercenaries could be dangerous to their future. Though she too wore the new field uniform, the old bitch, like many of the Fire Mandrills seemed to wear it with apathy. Stubbornly had refused to wear the required jacket, citing the informality of her clan and like all Fire Mandrills, she wore their dark red boots instead of the usual green ones all other units, even her own, wore. They stopped their small talk as the Northwind Highlander commander, complete in a kilt, strode up to them.
“Major William McCollum, First Gurkha Battalion, Northwind Highlanders, on assignment t' the Rim Collection as agreed with President Jerry Able, reporting as ordered Ma’am.†The Highlander man reported in what she was warned earlier in a Scottish drawl as he stood at attention and saluted them.
Galaxy Marshal Able and she both returned his salute with one of their own respectively as Justine caught sight of the solahma Monkey Khan rolling her eyes and lifted her hand from her chest just enough to form a two-fingered wave before bringing it back down to her chest. The man immediately fell into a ready stance as he clasped his hands behind his back, feet slightly apart.
Justine nodded to herself not expecting anything different from the dezgra mercenary. Mercenary he may be, but he was still a proud warrior, unlike the damn Monkeys she tolerated them purely because of their relationship with the Rim Collection and because of their current power. “We are happy your unit has arrived here on Gilfillan’s Gold, Major,†Galaxy Marshal Able started diplomatically. “Galaxy Marshal Karen Able of the First Rim Lancers and Star Colonel Justine Truscott of Clan Sphinx Raptor,†the other woman introduced them, not bothering to include the Monkey Khan, for she remained leaning against the tree. “She commands the unit you have been brought in to train, as a matter of fact.â€
By the tightening at the corner of the man’s lips, Justine knew the man was not at all happy. His next words confirmed it. “Forgive me, Galaxy Marshal, Star Colonel, but me and m' unit are t' train Rim Collection forces, not t' train Raptors.â€
“I said she commands the unit you were brought in to train, Major,†Justine noted the other woman’s eyes twinkle in mirth. “Rest assured her unit is and will be a combined unit, with members from the entirety of the Collection rather than just our local clans.â€
“The majority of my Rangers are Clansmen and women, however, Major. If this is a problem for you and or your unit, say so now so as we know where we stand with you and your dezgra warriors,†she remarked cuttingly to the Inner Sphere sell-warrior, who balled a hand into a fist. She smirked in satisfaction as she noted his reaction. Before she could reply, though, another feminine voice did, causing her to gulp.
“I trust the Highlanders to be as honorable an ally as they were an enemy when I fought them from my time as the last member of the Smoke Jaguars, Star Colonel Truscott. For the sake of your clan, do stop fanning the fire, so to speak, for the Major and his Highlanders will have enough problems with my own warriors,†Khan Aemelia Showers answered as she shrugged herself off her tree and walked the few steps to properly join them.
Justine was flabbergasted. Aemelia Showers, the Monkey Khan, known to be an ardent Crusader, had just paid this dezgra warrior in front of them a high complement in Clan society. By the reactions on both the Spheroids’ faces, both were just as shocked as she. Finally, Able seemed to have found her voice. “Well said, Khan Showers.â€
“So ye are the one who challenged and won a spot aboard a JumpShip from the Inner Sphere back t' your Homeworlds, lass?†Major McCollum asked, astonished to be facing the Clan woman who had shocked the Inner Sphere in her boldness in not only holding out for two years against his very own Highlander brothers and sisters by herself, but then had the audacity to demand and win a Trial of Possession for safcon back to the Clan Homeworlds, refusing to believe her clan had died. He was in front of a living legend as much as he was concerned. He continued after Aemelia answered him with a sharp nod of her head. “You were an honorable foe, Ma’am and the Jaguars were a courageous people.â€
All three were shocked when the Fire Mandrill snorted. “Misguided surats who had no idea how to be proper warriors, you mean Major.†She said smiling broadly “after all, we did ignite the fires of the reborn Star League into coming after us. Courageous, aff. Honorable, neg,†the elderly Khan rebuked him before shaking her head and muttering about facing her past as she began the walk back towards her own DropShip, which stood only a few hundred meters away from the Highlander’s own.
“One of these days, I’ll figure her out,†Able remarked as the three of them watched her go.
“Do not strain yourself, Galaxy Marshal,†Justine advised the older woman. “Even we Clanners do not understand the Mandrills at the best of times.â€
“True,†Able admitted. “Yet there is no other Clan I rather have at my side in battle. They on my right and yours on my left,†she added before Justine could take insult to her words. “And the Northwind Highlanders on my six,†she concluded as she and Justine turned back to the Highlander commander next to them. “Anyways, I and Star Colonel Truscott will escort you and your men and women to the primary base you all will be staying, Major. Tomorrow, the press would like…â€
Mission Calling
Marik, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
7th July 3099
Sitting in a business office Duke Joseph Marik, son of Corrine Marik and heir to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's throne, sat opposite his Church Bishop. “You have been called to serve our believers and to serve this Ward in a Mission to spread word of our beliefs.†The Bishop said
“I live to serveâ€
“We have gained clearance for you to travel into the Federated Suns to serve on New Avalon. You will obviously be afforded more security because of your position but your presence on will be quite a coup.â€
“Isn't our history with the Federated Suns a little checkered for this to happen?†Joseph said quietly the Federated Suns' present leader had a lot to do with that past.
“There has been assurances made if you are willing then it can happen.â€
“I am willing†Joseph admitted although he had no idea how he would convince his mother of the plan she was not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints nor was she a believer in a higher power. He didn't know how she would take this development but it was something he wanted to do.
The Periphery War
Marian Hegemony Expansion
13th July 3099
As the war continued to expand the Marian Hegemony launched further attacks against the independent systems of Kleinwelt and Worber's world while also landing troops on Thraxa and Vixen in the Magistracy of Canopus. On Alphard itself the Marians open the Corbulo Academy of Military Sciences a new school dedicated to Battle Armour training and tactics the Academy is named after a Roman General from ancient Terra. While the Marians turn on the Magistracy of Canopus the Twin Sons launches further attacks on the Marian Hegemony's flank landing troops on the world of Marius disrupting the Marian offensive.
Training Flight
Lee, Kathil Operational Zone
Capellan March, Federated Suns
27th July 3099
While training in the Lee system Cadet Kym Hasek and her wingman engage pirate forces attempting to hijack a civilian JumpShip. In the resulting dogfight Kym disables one of the pirate's aerospace fighters and damages another without taking an equal amount of damage herself.
Twenty-eighth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
29th July 3099
The Twenty-eighth Star League Games is dominated by House sponsored MechWarriors who fight over the title for being Star League Champion. As the battle pans out Lyran Commonwealth Kommandant Hans Hohmann piloting an experimental Mountain Wolf BattleMechs designed assault BattleMech known as the Maus wins the championship however at a cost during his final battle a laser penetrates the cockpit ripping through the pilot's shoulder although Hohmann is victorious in the battle his wounds prove to be fatal claiming the life of the MechWarrior.
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Star League Council
Emergency HPG Conference
Inner Sphere
4th August 3099
First Lord Bannister Cameron looked at the assembled faces on the screens in front of him a true marvel of technology which allowed them to host a full Star League Council despite the distances between them with a minimal delay. “Ladies and gentlemen thank you for assembling on such short notice. Today we must discuss a few items that effects this League...â€
“Your position is a temporary one you have no need to lord over us with your desires†Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao said speaking immediately Bannister knew from his experience that the Chancellor must spoken almost as soon as Bannister had himself.
“Chancellor, First Lord Cameron did not call this conference I did†Magestix Ilsa Centrella said cutting in before Bannister could “my Magistracy is under attack from the Fronc Reaches and from the Marian Hegemony. I am requesting SLDF assistance.â€
“My Confederation can provide this assistance, my sister, we do not need outsiders!†Dao-Shen snapped again.
“I do not want YOUR help†she said looking at the Chancellor. “My nation is a sovereign nation of this League I request SLDF assistance.â€
“Assistance that can be made available. I and the Commanding-General can assist you militarily and around the diplomatic table.†Bannister said
“The question is should you?†First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion said after several moments “what the Magestix fails to mention is that members of her Ebony Guard were caught on Fronc attempting to kill Dirk McEvens and saboteurs thought to be from the Magistracy were caught on Detroit inside the factory complex.†He said revealing one of the reasons behind the Fronc assaults fortunately with Danai's relationship with her younger sister Edre still strong several Federated Suns companies had been able to enter the Fronc Reaches markets and with them DMI operatives. Victor revealling he knew of these operations would likely turn the Fronc Reaches eyes inwards on his operatives however the DMI had already taken steps to safeguard their people.
“It's not as if the Magistracy would be the first nation to use its intelligence apparatus to forward its goals.†Dao-Shen said defending his sister's nation.
“I agree†Minoru Kurita said
“As do I†Erik Martens-Calderon said smiling towards Ilsa.
“It appears you have the support of the majority of this council without a vote†Bannister said “we will do what we can to assist you...â€
“Fantastic! Now if that is everything†Dao-Shen said again breaking in like he had spoken before Bannister had finished irritating the First Lord.
“Chancellor it is common courtesy to allow people finish speaking before you do.†Bannister snapped peering into Dao-Shen's video feed “now there is one more matter we must discuss.â€
“You cannot lord over us First Lord your position is temporary, you did not inherit it and you will not pass it on to your children.†The Chancellor snapped back
“But it is common courtesy†Jessica Steiner said speaking for the first time “Governor Cameron please continue.†Jessica said intentionally avoiding the use of Bannister's Star League title to avoid further backlash from the Chancellor.
“Thank you†Bannister said sitting up straight “today the SLS Wasp its escort squadron of assault vessels and the Thirty-first and Ninety-fourth Royal BattleMech Brigades landed on and captured the world of Denbar from the Capellan Confederation.â€
“YOU DID WHAT!†The Capellan Chancellor screamed “YOU HAVE NO RIGHT! It is sovereign Capellan soil, Capellan citizens!†He said angrily
“Your actions against the the people of Denbar and the population's desire to have a better life give me the right.†Bannister said defiantly “this Star League was formed to protect the Inner Sphere from the Clan threat. As time has gone on it has evolved into an organization that defends people across the Inner Sphere, that rebuilds lost treasures and brings stability to the Inner Sphere. It is not in my blood to sit by and watch any of you bad use your people I will not allow it.â€
“Your position is temporary Governor†Corrine Marik said copying Jessica Steiner's use of his non-Star League title.
“Yes and as First Lord it is my right to do as I see fit. The Commanding-General is in complete agreement with me do any of you disagree?†He said challenging any of them to support the Capellan's recent actions on Denbar although the Combine leader did not appear to care either way none of the leaders fully supported the Chancellor.
“So once again all decide that the Liao family are less equal than others?†Dao-Shen said angrily “you do understand that if you allow the Star League to take this action tomorrow they will be looking at your worlds?†He said looking at his own screens Bannister could see the Chancellor's eyes moving switching from screen to screen as he looked at each leader. In response came silence from the other leaders Bannister knew they probably privately thought the same thing but none were willing to stand by someone who had sanctioned the slaughter of his own civilians. “Fine. First Lord Cameron you will not lord over us like your predecessors did we will resist any invasion of our space inform your Commanding-General to expect to see our armed forces in the future.â€
“Any hostile action will be considered an act of war and will result in expulsion from this Star League.†Bannister warned he didn't like lording over other leaders but wouldn't be talked to like this.
“Expulsion will not be necessary the Capellan Confederation hereby withdraws from the Star League Defence Force. All SLDF representatives and ships will be escorted to your embassy or to our borders.†The Chancellor said before cutting the transmission leaving the others stunned.
“Lords and Ladies should any of you wish to stop SLDF operations on Denbar speak now†he said looking at the others, none spoke up, “then it is done we will retain the world. Magestix Centrella we will assist you with your problems and bring an end to this Periphery War.â€
“My thanks First Lord Cameron†she said respectfully before the leaders each signed off each slightly stunned at the Capellan leader's choice but also concerned at the path this new First Lord was taking with the SLDF.
Clan Hell's Horses Assaults
Clan Occupation Zones
17th August 3099
Deployed against Clan Coyote and Clan Hell's Horses the Fire Horse Galaxy launch a string of successful assaults against their neighbours on Cusset, Blota, Rastaban and Wheel. Using their new Mongol tactics the Hell's Horses charge through the defenders bringing their maximum firepower against their opponents out maneuvering them as they move planet to planet securing all four systems.
Terra Firma News
Clan Enclave, Terra Firma
Star League Protectorate
24th August 3099
“Ladies and Gentlemen the scene here is one of devastation and victory. At 0600 this morning two large explosions rocked the Clan Enclave here on Terra Firma. The Wolves and Hell's Horses that inhabit the city came here in peace in an effort to honour those that were killed and to clean up the crash site of the WarShip Pillar of Autumn. When this morning they came under attack following the bombings a BattleMech company burst into the Clan compound attacking the Clansmen inside. From within the compound the Clan Enclave's defenders rallied and drove the attackers back into the clutches of the Star League's Terra Firma Militia forces who finally destroyed the attackers.†He said as the camera panned over several burning buildings “following this attack by perpetrators believed to be anti-Clan radicals who desire the Clan menace is driven from ever Inner Sphere world this enclave's leaders are now calling for the Star League's permission for them to add heavy armour and BattleMech defence forces to their defence force and for them to be allowed to venture several kilometres all around their enclave to ensure that no-one attempts this again.†The Reporter said as the camera drew back “the Governor of Terra Firma Alex Wilson has refused to comment on these Clan calls however we have learned that the decision has been passed to the highest levels of the Star League Protectorate and the Star League Defence Force.
Taurian Raid in Force, The Periphery War
Federated Suns/Taurian Concordat Border
30th August 3099
Even as the Star League Defence Force turns its attention on the Periphery War in the Magistracy of Canopus the conflict spreads into the Federated Suns as the Taurian Concordat launches a series of deep raids into the Capellan March. One of these raids strikes at the Bromhead system targeting the FSS Jason Hasek, the Congress Block II-class Frigate, assigned to the system. While assault DropShips engage the vessel dozens of small craft deposited several squads of marines onto the vessel striking from multiple directions. For nearly three hours control over the vessel is contested before the Taurian marines declare victory in capturing the vessel and its remaining crew at a cost of six DropShips, multiple aerospace fighters and nearly forty marines.
Before the AFFS could respond to the attack the vessel's captors remove the WarShip from the system to a secret location in the Concordat. Other raids into the Capellan March cause little damage but keep the AFFS off balance enough to stop an instant response to these attacks.
EDIT wasn't happy with last part re-written
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Lance Championship
Solaris Games, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate, Lyran Commonwealth
8th September 3099
The Undead Lance Pirate/Mercenary lance arrive on Solaris VII with its pilots taking part of the Lance Championship. The Undead Lance piloting four experimental designs take the championship by storm and quickly gain a reputation for making head shots and engaging in physical attacks. This reputation ultimately back-fires on the lance as in their Semi-Final they encounter a lance of warriors from the Draconis Combine.
Traditionally warriors from the Combine had been most hated on Solaris for their “Warrior Code†believing that enemies should feel shame for defeats, enough shame to give their lives in battle even in games on Solaris, with the arrival of the Clans the Combine warriors had been less feared but still their legacy remained.
With the Undead Lance's reputation built over the span of several games their opponents showed them no mercy as the four Combine built Mechs led by an experimental Ookami Heavy BattleMech tore into the Undead Lance. With the pilot of the Cadaver the first to fall quickly two other Mechs fell as the Undead Lance had no choice but to surrender their duel.
Following the battle the Undead Lance's support personnel protected by the unit's commander Morana Tichy piloting her Mortis BattleMech quickly removed the remains of the three destroyed Mechs and their Aurora-class DropShip quickly removed them from the planet.
Clan Wolf assault
Rasalas, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
19th September 3099
In a resumption of hostilities in the Former-Free Worlds League Clan Wolf debut a brand-new BattleMech named the Shadow Wolf. This Mech a one hundred ton assault design is built using standard structure, gyro and fusion engines built at the refurbished Ford Military Limited Factories on Ford carries a range of advanced Clan weapons including a Gauss Rifle, a Rotary Autocannon, a Long Range Missile Launcher and an Arrow IV Artillery Missile System.
This Mech unlike others in the Wolf arsenal the Shadow Wolf is designed to support other BattleMechs in the field more than complements the Wolf strategy of combined weapons fire on enemy targets. It is also uses a lot less resources than building a new OmniMech design or a design using advanced construction materials allowing Wolf engineers to quickly convert the facilities on Ford. Two days after the fall of Rasalas the nearby system of Bainsville falls to a Wolf assault further strengthening the Wolf's drive towards Keystone and the valuable BattleMech factories there.
The Periphery War, Peace Negotiations
Fronc Reaches/Magistracy of Canopus
25th September 3099
After weeks of peace negotiations the Star League Defence Force negotiators assists the Magistracy of Canopus into brokering a peace deal with the Fronc Reaches, backed by the firepower of the SLDF, the negotiators warn off the small periphery state in an effort to stabilize the Magistracy of Canopus. But even as the SLDF assist in ending part of the Periphery War the Magistracy of Canopus continue to be threatened by the War as the Marian Hegemony launches more assaults on Marantha and Gambillon capturing both systems while further afar other nations have other plans.
Nadir Point, Recharge Station Hasek One
New Syrtis, Capellan March
Federated Suns
29th September 3099
As the SLDF attempted to help settle the Periphery War with words the AFFS had other plans Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek stood on the gravity deck of the massive recharge station, Hasek One, one of the remnants from when the New Syrtis system held a place of importance to the Capellan March. He could barely hide his smile as he watched the FSS Black Prince and four other WarShips emerge from their Hyperspace Jumps.
Thirty minutes later small craft from the WarShips brought the First Prince and his command team on board the Hasek One there the First Prince's team briefed the assembled House and mercenary regiment commanders. “Ladies and Gentlemen, the Taurian Concordat has assaulted our worlds, seized our property and our people.†Victor Steiner-Davion said looking around the officers beside him stood the Marshal of Armies Sora Higginson and Field Marshal Carver Felsner, the Head of the Department of Military Intelligence. “However they are not our true threat†the First Prince explained deferring to Felsner.
“The DMI have uncovered a Maskirovka sleeper agent within the Taurian command network unfortunately we cannot identify who this person is, but we believe that he or she is the architect of the attacks on the Capellan March.†He said “we have also discovered that the Capellans are shipping advanced weapons to both the Taurian Concordat and the Fronc Reaches in an effort to support the Periphery War and provide both of these nations with the confidence to launch a war.†They said some of the warriors appeared to be aware of these facts possibly briefed en route to the Capellan March by the First Prince and his advisors while those who had been based within the Capellan March looked angry.
“In essence the Capellans have begun these proxy conflicts that we believe they intended on using to re-exert their influence over the Magistracy of Canopus and possibly the Fronc Reaches.†Marshal of Armies Sora Higginson said “we are not going to allow this to continue†he said “Task Force Alpha will strike at the Caellan Confederation systems of Muridox, Corodiz, Larsha and Rollis while Task Force Beta will strike at the Taurian systems of Laconis, MacLeod's Land, Brisbane and New Vandenburg.†She explained “you will receive your tasking orders over the next couple of days.â€
“We are going to sever the Capellan Confederation’s border ties to the Taurian Concordat and we are going break the Taurian Concordat's ability to wage war.†The First Prince said “we will not attempt to occupy all of these worlds we know the Taurian response to such a move†he said speaking of the Taurian's remaining attachment to and willingness to use nuclear weapons. Instead we will make precision strikes against specific targets. Let me be very clear†Victor said looking at the officers if I hear of any unit taking advantage of this situation and exerting some revenge on the people of the Taurian Concordat I will hold those people responsible for their actions†he warned “we were wronged in this conflict and we will be the ones who ensure it will not happen again in a hurry. Thank you.†He said off to one side a senior enlisted officer called out for the gathering to be dismissed few of them would actually be going anywhere instead they would be remaining on the space station to finalize plans for the AFFS twin assaults.
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Another much delayed update but still happening :)
Negotiations
Lesnovo, Rim Association
Former-Free Worlds League
8th October 3099
Across the table from each other Prime Minister Allison Kaning, of the Outer League Alliance, and Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones, of the Rim Association, looked over the final pages of the agreement that would bind their nations together. “And with this agreement the Rim Association is no more.†Raymond said quietly looking over the paperwork. “We had a good run.â€
“Not no more a part of the greater Outer League Alliance†Allison said “as the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey and the Bowang Free Trade Sphere still are. Lesnovo and the Rim Association are still two important parts of our nation.â€
“I know†he said weakly “bit still a little part of the magic disappears today.â€
“Not a little part of the magic the beginning of new magic. With this agreement over fifty percent of the old Free Worlds League is united for a common cause. Together we could bring about the rebirth of a united House Marik under one banner as it should be.†Allison Kaning said “Lesnovo and her District have much to contribute to our nation.â€
“Ah yes†Raymond said smiling three things had brought the Rim Association on par with the Outer League Alliance and brought the larger nation to the negotiation table instead of a war footing. The Niops system and its Star League Research and Manufacturing capabilities, the largely space based defences and construction facilities based in the Trinity Moons system and of course the fighting prowess and construction facilities in the Twin Sons system. The last of the three was also a problem for the Outer League Alliance Kaning and her advisers had advised Raymond that they would not support the continued war against the Marian Hegemony despite recent convincing victories by units from the Twin Sons system. Intelligence suggesting the last of the Manei Domini were hidden in the Hegemony had fallen on deaf ears leading to an agreement by Rim Association officials that they would bring the Twin Sons under control something Raymond thought would hold Lesnovo's attention for a while. This would allow Allison Kaning to remain in control and Raymond believed allow them to sink their teeth deeper into Niops a system that the Outwe League Alliance had already shown great interest in.
“Together we can be great.â€
“You really think you can pressure Marik, Regulus and Oriente into returning to the Parliament?†Raymond asked barely believing that he'd uttered the words as he looked at the map of the newly expanded Outer League Alliance its borders now surrounding and replacing those of the Rim Association. It was a nation that now spread from the Lyran Commonwealth to the Marian Hegemony from the Wolf Empire to the Magistray of Canopus.
“The Wolves are threatening Marik at every side her current leader is old, her future leader cares more for a power above man and Stewart wants its own share of the power.†Allison said “our analysis points to Corrine sacrificing Stewart to either the Lyrans or the Wolves in an effort to stay in control. Longer term if the Wolves seize Keystone they could shatter the nation in two leaving Ionus, Loyalty and Atreus vulnerable.†She said cutting her finger over the map of the Free Worlds League the map showing a Wolf advance that shattered the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth into two nations. “Regardless Corrine or her son cannot hope to hold on forever alone that could open a door for us.†She said “Regulus is already broken†she concluded glancing at what was now the smallest nation of the Former-Free Worlds League “they cannot retake Clipperton, Wallis is already in negotiation to join us and their military is concentrated on holding McKenna for the Prince's bride. Within a generation the Principality of Regulus will falter either through losses, internal conflict or even Wolf assault should they break the Commonwealth.â€
“Something that would not bode well for us the Wolves area already too strong†Raymond said the former Nova Cats of the Liger Warriors and the former Smoke Jaguars from the Twin Sons had both commented on the Wolves current strategy as one out of General Aleksandr Kerensky's own play book. Weaken you enemies isolate them or turn them against each other then take them apart piece by piece.
“While the Oriente Protectorate is no threat to anyone but themselves. Their nation pales to even the Capellan Confederation. If they are not folded into the Commonwealth or Principality then they will follow Andurien into the hands of the Capellan Chancellor.â€
“The Capellans don't have an occupying force that strong†Raymond said in disbelief
“No?†Allison asked “why not? The Federated Suns is currently far stronger than the Capellans but they are distracted. There will not be another Fourth Succession War neither Victor nor his sons are capable of such a feat leaving the Capellan Confederation still the weakest of the Succession States but still one nation. Oriente is a collection of systems that mostly looks out for themselves already with Regulus holding McKenna†she said zooming the map in “these worlds at the 'head' of the Protectorate feel isolated should the Capellans apply a little pressure on New Delos they could cut off a dozen worlds. On their own isolated these worlds could do what? Turn to Marik which is threatened by the Wolves? Turn to Regulus whom they have fought so hard to defend against? Go it alone? All unlikely scenarios.â€
“They could join the Star League Protectorate the SLDF has the strength to strop the Capellans with Augustine, Wasat and Talitha all under their flag it wouldn't bee too much of a jump.â€
“I could see a couple of worlds going that way†Allison conceded “but it would lead to a war either way which would benefit our cause in the long run as we could show the Protectorate worlds support which the other nations could not. The more support we offer those systems close to us the better.â€
“You really think we could bring back a united Free Worlds League? Under a united parliament?â€
“That is the goal of the Outer League Alliance†Allison Kaning admitted it had been a long road but it was time that House Marik returned to the fore just not a House Marik led by Corrine's line instead one led by the people of their nation.
Combine Invasion
Alshian District, Rasalhague Dominion
10th October 3099
With rumours spreading of the unrest within the Rasalhague Dominion and that both Clan Hell's Horses and Coyote had challenged the Bears over the last year the Rasalhague Dominion launches an assault against the Clan realm seizing five systems. In the Courcheval system three Draconis Combine WarShips gang up on the Rasalhague Dominion vessel Rudigen, a Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser, while losing one of their own. Then in the Spittal system Draconis Combine WarShips bombard the Rasalhague Dominion ground positions paving the way for the ground forces.
Within a week of their first assaults the DCMS had secured all five planets destroying three clusters of Ghost Bear warriors and begin preparing fixed defences while other units prepare a second string of assaults.
Clan Shipyard Alpha
Tukayyid Orbit
Clan Controlled Space
15th October 3099
The two York-class Carrier/Destroyers the Crusader and the Warden are launched from the new shipyard orbiting over Tukayyid. These two ships which will be dedicated to the defence of the Tukayyid system and are named for the two political factions of the Clans. There are rumours of a new class in development but there has been no further progress as far as anyone can see. The shipyard's facilities will be available to all Clans and where its production goes will be monitored by the Loremaster of the Clans and the Clan council.
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Offensive
Wolf Empire, Former-Free Worlds League
24th October 3099
The Marik-Stewart Commonwealth launch a multi system assault on the Clan Wolf Empire striking at Shasta, Ideyid and Zortman. On the planet of Zortman the Second Free Worlds Legionaries supported by the Fourth Marik-Stewart Guards Regiment and the Third Dismal Disinherited Mercenary Command find Wolf Khan Nathan Fetladral on the planet inspecting new Wolf facilities. Not waiting for their other units to land or for a prepared assault the Second launch a full assault on Wolf positions taking heavy damage as they do but killing the Wolf Khan in the process.
For eight days the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and Wolf units contest all three systems before the Wolf units withdraw in disarray leaderless now that their Khan is dead. With the heavy losses the Wolves reinforce their lines on the planets they still hold while they move towards re-electing another Khan by mid-November saKhan Jennifer Winson seized her position as Khan while Galaxy Commander Amina Kerensky seized the position as saKhan.
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Counter Attack, The Periphery War
Magistracy of Canopus/Marian Hegemony
2nd November 3099
Heavy fighting continues on no less than six different worlds as the Magistracy of Canopus launch a desperate counter-attack against the Marian Hegemony invasion intent on blunting their enemy with all weapons at their disposal. Sending all three of their active WarShips in support of ground forces the Magistracy attempt to retake the systems of Marantha, Gambillion and Vixen. Initial efforts are a success with Marantha and Gambillion both returned to the Magistracy's control however efforts on Vixen quickly bog down with the Marian forces equipped with advanced technology holding off the Magistracy's ground forces and advanced aerospace fighters assaulting the Magistracy's WarShips.
After four days of fighting the deadlock is broken as the Marians launch a nuclear attack against the MCS Belisong completely obliterating the Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvette with a single missile strike. With this brutally effective display the Marians show how vulnerable WarShips are to swarms of aerospace fighters and nuclear weapons. Not willing to risk losing both other vessels in the area the Magistracy government recall their WarShip fleet while leaving their ground forces in position this allows the Marians to fill the area with more units and for pirates to move into the area praying on the contested planets. These events effectively create an area of space that neither side is able to dominate much like the area once known as the Chaos March in which both nations vie for control over the planets but neither is able to move in.
Dining Hall, Allard-Liao Residence
St Ives, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
4th November 3099
Jaylen Davion sat at her dining room table in her home on St Ives staring at her plate of food as her house butler entered the room. “Should I prepare another dish for Duke Allard-Liao?†He asked glancing down the table.
“Not tonight†she said not looking up from her food. Her husband of two years had walked out the night before after yet another argument about the course her father, the First Prince, was taking. Justin claimed that the people of St Ives had been worse served since they joined the Federated Suns and that her father's “warmongering†was taking them back towards war with the Capellan Confederation and that all they would get out of it was the loss of more St Ives planets.
Jaylen did not completely agree that the Federated Suns needed to do what was planned but her father's decision was final. Even as she sat here alone Federated Suns ground and naval units were entering the Capellan Confederation systems of Muridox, Larsha, Corodiz and Rollis in the first stage of the Federated Suns offensive. Ground force units would be supported by WarShips in each of the systems but there were no Capellan naval units expected in any of the systems nor was there expected heavy resistance. The resistance would come in the next couple of days as AFFS units pushed onto the Taurian Concordat worlds of MacLeod's Land, Laconis, Brisbane and finally New Vandenburg. When the AFFS entered those systems in reprisal for the recent Taurian raids the Federated Suns would officially be at war casualties were expected to be heavy in the Concordat but the AFFS actions were intended on shattering the Taurians capability to make war. Jaylen's father had ordered that civilian casualties were kept at a minimum but that should the Taurians resort to the use of weapons of mass destruction the AFFS units were to destroy the Taurian units with extreme prejudice.
These orders were something that neither Jaylen or Tristen had agreed with but neither had been in a position to argue with the First Prince which had caused further disagreements between the couple. Jaylen refused to admit her marriage was over but neither wished to see the other for now time apart would do them well.
Border raids
District of Tamarind-Abbey, Outer League Alliance
Former-Free Worlds League
17th November 3099
With the Outer League Alliance more concentrated on the Wolf Empire and the Marian Hegemony the Lyran Commonwealth continue to use the Outer League Alliance as a testing ground for new units raiding their border systems. In an effort to win a contract with the LCAF Quickcell support these raids with their new Hetzer Jagdtiger a new variant of the popular tank destroyer. This unit featuring an Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle proves deadly to enemy units but the tanks also suffer from a series of mechanical failures.
During the fighting the Lyrans also debut their new UZL-10X Uziel Headhunter which uses the Lyrans new Headhunter – 10 which is capable of decapitating an enemy BattleMech with a single missile strike. This new Uziel model proves very capable of taking out enemy units and with two tons of ammunition the Mech is able to remain with units. The Mechs Guardian ECM suite gives the Lyran units addition options but its extra-light gyroscope and advanced Headhunter missile system adds to the maintenance costs of the unit. The Uziel's performance wins it multiple orders from the LCAF Quartermasters.
Free Worlds League Embassy, Crawford Place
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th November 3099
The armoured limousine stopped outside the main gate of the Free Worlds League Embassy and Elder Marik stepped from the vehicle onto the pavement with another man. Like his companion he wore a simple black suit carrying a brown leather suitcase at his side he stepped into the Embassy grounds and was quickly followed by two guards from a second vehicle. On his mission with the Church he had intended on having no guards but his mother had insisted that at least two plain clothes SAFE trained guards. Stepping into the embassy he felt like he was back in the Free Worlds League the décor feeling familiar. Walking past the grounds staff a couple looked at him but they paid little attention to him he wasn't dressed like any other noble.
Entering the Embassy he was immediately approached by Ambassador Felicity Jones “Duke Marik†she said as he entered.
“Please Ambassador it's Elder Marik for the duration of my visit to New Avalon.†He said calmly glancing around there were few others present “I do not wish for my family name to interfere with my duties while I am here.â€
“Understood we will pass on your requestâ€
“Very good†he replied turning away back towards the exit his companion following.
“Sire do you not want to look over the status reports of our mission here? Or receive news from home?†The Ambassador asked confused.
“I am sure you have everything under control here†he said “my duties will have me on the streets and that is where I will be.†He said stepping out of the room back outside the Embassy there he stepped and turned to the two bodyguards who had been shadowing him. “I am aware of your orders. Now I will make a request I want both of you to maintain your distance from us I do not want the people we speak to to feel crowded. You may remain at a distance that you can see us but not interfere unless we absolutely need you.†He said the two guards did not look completely certain of his orders “my mother is not here I am take this as an order.†Both men did not look convinced but said nothing further so he turned to his companion “shall we begin?†He said completely calmly the man nodded and the two walked out onto the streets of New Avalon intent on passing the word of their Church to the people.
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Nice update! Glad to see more action going on! Really looking forward to see what happens to the AFFS on their CC/TC territory raids! LCAF actually doing testing raids with lighter mechs? Not fast Heavy's or assaults? lol keep it up!
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My thanks to James Tanaga for the continued excellent work on the Rim Collection storyline.
Gilfillan City
Gilfillan’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
2nd December, 3099
Frank Able watched the crowds from behind the tinted glass of the utility vehicle he rode in as they made their way towards the President’s House, where his father resided, he'd been invited for dinner and now his vehice was in the middle of a convoy of five vehicles that his advisers and security had insisted travel with him. The Old Man, as many within the Collection had termed him, was on the warpath in regards to the family, what with him knocking up yet another woman and Karen allowing her fiancé to take their daughter along with him to the FedSuns. Sometimes, rarely, he wished his father was never selected as President Mayfield’s successor it was easier when The Old Man was purely a military commander.
He was rocked from his thoughts as the vehicle screeched to a stop and he felt the seat belt he wore dig into his skin keeping him in his seat as he heard and felt an explosion. “Wha-,†he started to ask, only for his driver to turn his head and slam the vehicle in reverse. As he did so, he caught sight of the crowd running in all directions, seemingly trying to get away from the explosion. That was when he understood it hadn’t been an accident. The convoy itself was under attack, as the vehicle reversed and then turned down a side street, following the one in front of them. As it did so, he reached into the seat in front of him and pulled out the light body Kevlar body armor that was inside and hurried to put it on, his private assistant also doing the same as they both scrambled for some sort of protection.
As they finished putting the body armor on, he paled as he caught sight of a Purifier power armor suit keeping up with them on the roofs of the building to his right. He guessed there were others to the left, for his bodyguard in the front passenger seat reported as much into his radio as Frank and his assistant pulled out matching compact laser rifles hidden in the back of the seats in front of them.
Suddenly, the vehicle in front of theirs exploded into a ball of flame. He heard his driver yell something as Frank held onto the seat in front of him, then they rammed the now-destroyed vehicle in front of theirs as his driver attempted to maneuver them through the ambush. Turning his head, he could see the vehicle behind them follow them as the one directly behind it too exploded.
He suddenly was jolted out of his seat, hitting the door hard, blacking out, as the vehicle was hit onto its side by another explosion as the ambush was complete with Frank's entire convoy destroyed and dozens of others injured.
Hours later with the ambush long over the assailants still at large Karen Able balled her fists, feeling her nails breaking her skin, as she walked out the hospital into the rain, surrounded by Watch personnel. The entire Collection now knew about the attempted assassination of her brother Frank earlier today and the collateral casualties that had gone with it. In the parking lot and on the nearby street and buildings, she could see the Rim Collection Security Services were out in force. Uniformed personnel along with plain-clothes one; tactical response units alongside canine units. On the surrounding roof tops with her trained eyes she could see snipers belonging to both the Security Service and the Lancers and she knew that those were only the visual deterrent there would be concealed troopers out there too.
Yet, at any other time she would have noted this with pride, she instead seethed. While her brother was still alive, he still was in emergency surgery and the docs still did not know whether he would ultimately survive or not. Whoever had done this to her brother would pay, she promised herself.
“Ma’am,†she heard the voice of the head of her Watch bodyguard contingent speak to her. She nodded in her direction, as the rain continued, her face and clothes now soaked. “Star Colonel Truscott of the Raptors and Star Captain Harold Faraday of the Mandrills have arrived,†the woman informed Karen as she nodded to the two approaching clanners who both wore the military green waterproofs matching hers, they were followed by a contingent of Truscott's Rangers. She knew Truscott by sight, but not the male Mandrill warrior in front of her. Glancing down, she noticed the dark red boots the Mandrills all wore, and decided to trust the man to actually be a Mandrill warrior.
“Our clans have given us orders to offer any and all support that we and our units can give you, Galaxy Marshal,†Star Colonel Justine Truscott reported to her. “Whoever dezgra ordered these surats in this cowardly attack will face our collective might!†The unknown Fire Mandrill nodded to Karen as the Star Colonel spoke.
“Right now, I need answers! Whoever ordered these assassins to kill my brother, we will make pay! We've captured one of them Star Colonel, you and your Rangers have your first mission. Take the bitch and make her talk! Anyway you can, but make the bitch squeal!â€
Both clanners looked to each other before they turned to her and nodded, before Justine Truscott motioned to her subordinates behind her. As the female clanner led the other fourteen Rangers with her into the hospital, each paused and gave Karen a squeeze on her left shoulder. Most she noted were clanners, but Karen noticed all operated as a team. Where one grieved, they all grieved.
“Go with them and make sure the clanners get the bitch as nonviolently as possible,†she muttered to her, bodyguard as an afterthought. She heard her mumble her agreement and watched her join the back of the contingent of clanners as they entered the hospital.
Planning Room, Clan Wolf Command Complex Alpha One
Boxleitner (Wolf) City, Sheridan
Wolf Empire
12th December 3099
The new saKhan of Clan Wolf Amina Kerensky could walk down the street of Wolf City, or Boxleitner City as the locals insisted on calling the Capital City apparently it was named for an actor from old Terra and the people were quite proud of it, and feel less nervous the Wolves in Command Complex Alpha were busy at work monitoring their neighbouring realms. Amina stepped up to the main holo table standing beside Khan Jennifer Winson who was studying some plans the saKhan glanced over the plans not recognizing them.
“You look confused saKhan†Jennifer Winson said quietly Amina Kerensky could not stand the woman she had been Nathan Fetladral's lackey and did not deserve to be Khan of the Wolves.
“Neg interested to learn Khan†Amina Kerensky replied continuing to study the plans. “Is this your planned answer to the Marik assaults Quineg?†She said these plans showed the Wolves in a far stronger position than they currently were.
“Neg†Jennifer Winson admitted “these were the plans laid down when Clan Wolf initially planned to move to our new home.†She said “their plan was for us to cripple our neighbours in one swoop.â€
“Ambitious†Amina Kerensky admitted “and to think we control only a single one of the worlds listed on this list.†She said referring to Tamarind which itself was currently being contested with the newly risen Outer League Alliance.
“Aff their plan was to strike hard and to capture or destroy each of these worlds†she said moving her finger down the list of worlds Bolan, Tamarind, Solaris VII, Stewart, Keystone, Loyalty and Ionus. “However Nathan Fetladral believed that if we were to strike at all of these worlds we would be more spread out than the Sea Foxes and we would be destroyed piecemeal even with the contracted Snow Raven and Nova Cats.â€
“Who are nearing the end of their Contract and who we have under used.†Amina Kerensky said pushing the Wolves had successfully defeated both the Snow Ravens and Nova Cats to extend their contract securing their naval support in the Wolves time of need but still these units had not been used to their full capabilities. “We need to hit the Marik-Stewarts before they become overconfident following their latest successes.â€
“I agree†she admitted “which is why we are going to strike at Stewart and take one of their co-capitals from them. We will strike at Stewart first bypassing Amity and Danais to give forewarning then our back-up forces will strike at those systems. Additional units will strike at Helm and Gallatin to tie up the dezgra mercenary units stationed there.â€
“What about the Commonwealth's offensive forces? They still hold Zortman and have significant assets in the region.†Amina Kerensky pointed out the forces on the world which Nathan Fetladral had died on were still a potential knife at their back.
“The Sea Foxes have wanted a planet in the region for weeks†Jennifer Winson said “we will give them Kappa Galaxy to support their efforts.†She said suggesting using the second-line command for the task.
“That may work.†Amina Kerensky admitted she had already fended off two attempts by the Sea Foxes to gain territory in the last month.
“Yes it will. We need to push the Marik-Stewarts to the brink of collapse so they remain within their own borders. Inform the Nova Cats and Snow Ravens that we'll be striking directly at Stewart and following the completion of these operations they will be released from their contract.â€
“Our trials increased the duration of their contract†Amina protested
“Aff however they will be carrying the majority of the work in the next battles†Jennifer Winson said “they have served out their contract.†She said the two spoke for several more hours looking over their plans the Wolves needed to succeed in this or they would be vulnerable for years to come.
A week later on the 19th December Clan Sea Fox launch an assault on Zortman with the WarShips Terror of the Deep, a Nightlord-class Battleship, the Intrepid-class Troopships Dortmond and Saratoga the Faulk Skate and three clusters from the Deathstrike Khanate. The Sea Foxes come in firing obliterating the MSC Cook, a Venturer-class Light Cruiser, immediately before burning towards the planet. Landing the Sea Foxes continue their “fire-first†strategy blasting the ground forces completely over running the Fourth Marik-Stewart Guards Regiment and two small supporting mercenary units two other Marik-Stewart units that had been expected in the system were both missing. The fighting costs the Sea Foxes the Fortieth Strike Cluster but the Sea Foxes are able to give their new Tribune BattleMech a live-fire combat run.
Bunker City Taussen
Versailles, Crucis March
Federated Suns
18th December 3099
The colony of Taussen buried deep under the Manei Domini base on Versailles was a hive of activity as AFFS troops manned the streets and Intelligence agency staff checked every inch of the facility it wasn't every day that the First Prince of the Federated Suns visited. These people had been citizens of a secret world within the Federated Suns until just a short few weeks ago but Victor Steiner-Davion had insisted that he visit them personally and then his wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion had insisted on accompanying him.
To ensure nothing went seriously wrong the DMI had deployed two entire Battalions of Rabid Fox Battle Armoured troopers into the facility on top of the First Princes personal security unit from the First Davion and the troops that were already based on the planet. Despite their advancing age both Victor and Danai were accomplished warriors and could look after themselves but the troops of the AFFS were dedicated to their defence and would not let them down.
Victor and his wife entered the habitation level at 13:00 hours and slowly moved through the crowd with multiple bodyguard staff. The population despite their many years under the Manei Domini the people considered themselves to be citizens of the Federated Suns and subjects of the First Prince like their ancestors had been. Victor learns that the Manei Domini had perpetrated a ruse with the population claiming to be a secret fail-safe force assembled in secret by the First Prince to support the AFFS to ensure no threat could completely destroy the Federated Suns. In effect the people were as loyal to the Federated Suns as any other. Victor also learns that the people of Versailles refered to their world as Taussen, which the AFFS had been naming the Bunker.
The First Prince announces that the planet will be under the personal stewardship of his family for the foreseeable future with no noble ruler assigned to running the planet. He also announces that a purpose built habitation facility will be built on the surface of the planet for the population allowing the civilian population to see the sky for the first time in centuries due to the Manei Domini's security concerns. On the surface Davion clean up teams also begin the long process of clearing the centuries old munitions that litter the surface in an attempt to make the planet more habitable.
Kwangjong-ni
Coventry Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
25th December, 3099
Karen Able struggled to swallow down the bile that threatened to surge into her mouth, the result of developing Transit Disorientation Sickness brought on by her pregnancy with her daughter. Not unheard of, she was told it would abate once she had Victoria. Yet, two and a half years after she gave birth to her little girl, she still had it and likely would continue having it until the day she died. It was rare for natal TDS to continue after a pregnancy, she was told, but it did happen.
Catching her breath, she looked outside the window, seeing the jumpships and the Raptor’s Whirlwind-class destroyer, RCS Elysium. Already, Omni and aerospace fighters were deploying into the blackness of space. Looking down, she could just see the watery-blue and green world of Kwangjong-ni, the size of a very small ball. Yet TDS was a small price to pay for avenging her brother’s death, she decided as she looked down upon the planet.
Straightening her back, she turned to face the rest of the bridge. Already, the JumpShip captain, an aging female clanner nearly as old as her father, was barking out orders as her crew just as quickly reacted to them. Finally the male Elemental clanner manning the comm station nodded to her.
Pushing against the floor of the bridge with her toes, she floated towards the comm station, nodding to the younger man as he reached out and effortlessly pulled her to him. Resting her right arm on the man’s shoulder, she leaned against him as he turned on the comm channel. “Comm link established, ovkhan.â€
She acknowledged the large Elemental clanner with a nod of her own as she looked to the black dot near to a blue light she knew that housed the tiny camera. “This is Galaxy Marshal Karen Able of the Rim Collection to Kwangjong-ni defenders and all Lyrans. The attack on Kwangjong-ni is a retaliatory strike against Defiance Industries for their role in my brother’s assassination earlier this month. Kwangjong-ni defenders are ordered to stand down if they value their lives. Those who surrender will be repatriated back to the Lyran Commonwealth. Those who do not will be considered as acting on Defiance Industries behalf and will die. This is their only warning. To the Lyran Commonwealth, do not interfere and we will consider this a private matter. If not, we become enemies this day. Able out.â€
She knew she was risking much for this attack on Kwangjong-ni, but her love for her brother demanded it. She could only hope her father would understand that.
At the same time on Gilfillian’s Gold, her father, President Able was with his staff were watching the same message which had been per-recorded by before Karen left. Just as it ended, the President collapsed unconscious in his chair after having a massive heart attack, a result of a stress caused by Karen's reckless actions and a grieving heart for the death of his son. Although Jerry was immediately taken to the best medical facility in the Rim Collection nothing could be done for the President. Hours later Vice President James Nanook announces the death of President Jerry Able to an already grieving Rim Collection.
Beyond the nation's borders Karren Able persecutes her campaign against the Defiance Industries facilities on Kwangjong-ni intent on making the company pay for the death of her brother unaware of the trouble she had caused at home.
Clan Assault
Stewart, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
30th December 3099
With a series of flashes of light the Snow Raven WarShips Mountbatton, Spur and Faithful jump into the Nadir point of the Stewart system arriving ahead of the Wolf ground forces. At the Zenith point Liger, Principle and Sabretooth enter the system. At both jump points sparks of weapons fire immediately filled the surrounding space with fixed defence stations and the two Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Venturer-class Light Cruisers assigned to Stewart's defence immediately engaging the Clan forces.
The Clan WarShip crews are surprised to find that the defenders have armed everything in the area with as many weapons as possible and are engaged by the local jump stations and even the JumpShips something rarely encountered in the Inner Sphere. As the Clan forces methodically destroy the WarShips and fixed defence stations in the system a merchant class JumpShip from the Nadir point jumps to the Zenith point re-entering the system close to the Nova Cat vessel Principle. The massive emergence wave caused by the arriving JumpShip rips across the port side of the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser stripping the vessel of armour and weapons breaching the hull causing the deaths of the majority of the crew. The Principle continued on the same course with power systems shorting out across the vessel with the remaining crew abandoning the vessel soon after. The remaining Nova Cats and Snow Ravens then go about destroying every defence asset and civilian vessel in the system including the MSC Gambit, a Zechetinu II-class Corvette, that enters the system via a pirate point in a vain attempt to stop the marauding Clan forces.
Hours later with both standard jump points secure the Wolf's JumpShips carrying Alpha and Beta Galaxies enter the system behind the Nova Cat and Snow Raven vessels and begin their transit towards the planet of Stewart.
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Great update Dragon Cat and James Tanaga!
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I'm still not 100% happy with my documents but I've decided I want to write so here we go...
My thanks to James Tanaga for the first part and for patience in sticking with the AU.
3100
Landry Sea
Kwangjoneg-ni
2nd January 3100
Star Captain Yu Nevversan felt the Kirghiz omnifighter shake as it entered Kwangjong-ni’s atmosphere, knowing nine other identical craft were following him it. His unit, Gamma Trinary of the Mandrill’s Nineteenth Striker Cluster, was the Mandrill’s only contribution to Galaxy Marshal Karen Able’s Task Force Vengeance, as the Rim Collection’s media had coined the collective force she had brought here to Kwangjong-ni.
Yet despite being the Mandrill’s sole participation in the operation, his trinary was perhaps the most important element of it. Normally a Specialist Salamander Trinary with a star of Kirgiz OmniFighters and two stars of Salamander battle armour. Today the Elemental troopers had traded their regular equipment in for Undine battle armour.
He reviewed the mission in his head just as he felt the atmospheric turbulence end. While Karen Able’s Lancers and the Sphinx Raptors handled the Lyrans Fifteenth Arcturan Guards RCT and Kwangjong-ni’s militia units, his Specialist trinary had waited on board their Titan DropShip for Able to find and then send them the required coordinates to the underwater Defiance Industries facilities. Once she had destroyed the ground threat, she would force the planet’s governor to disclose to her the required coordinates and then gather her forces to make it seem they were gathering to enter into the water, even sending some Raptor Undine suits to “picketâ€. Once she was certain she had the underwater defender’s attention, she would send his trinary in.
“One minute to drop. Repeat, one minute to drop,†the Kirghiz pilot warned Yu and the other warriors it carried. Only an hour and a half ago, she had sent him a text message via Fire Mandrill encryption protocols. It only had one word; Vengeance, followed by the coordinates where he hoped the underwater factory was located.
“Deployment drop. Repeat, deployment drop,†he heard the pilot report into his radio, just before he felt his Undine power armor drop from the hold of the omnifighter into the blackness of Kwangjong-ni’s sky.
A few seconds after the drop, he felt the near stop of his suit he was in as its parachute opened, signaling the suit was at ten thousand meters above the water. Once he made sure the parachute would hold, he sent a click into his radio. Soon, he allowed himself a smile, as his point all answered him. The seriousness of the mission necessitated radio silence until the actual strike against their target and so he and his two stars were stuck with using radio clicks and lights for now.
Switching frequencies, he did the same task and was soon answered in kind. A moment later, he switched radio frequencies to the command frequency used only by he and Star Commander Becka Faraday. Sending a click, he was relieved by the immediate click that was sent back. It meant no drop losses. Sending a click back, followed by four clicks, he switched channels back to his own immediate points, as he then looked at the readings on his scanners.
He smiled to himself as he saw they were mostly on target. Now they only had to wait until the parachute harnesses detached when they reached 30 meters above the water. As he and the other warriors did so, each constantly used their suit’s Underwater Maneuvering Unit to act as a maneuvering device when needed. Usually only useful underwater, the small jet engines acted to somewhat propel and guide them as they glided through the night sky.
Soon enough, he felt the parachute detach from him, then just as quickly crashing into the ocean underneath him. Just as quickly, he turned on his suit’s small green lights so others would know where he was, and again did clicked his radio. Once he had confirmation from his point, the four point commanders he commanded, and from Star Commander Becka, he led them slowly to the facility and into the depths.
Three hours later, having travelled nearly a hundred kilometers underwater, Yu and his warriors neared their target. He allowed himself a grin as he and the others stopped as they heard a submarine pass over them, its sonar warning them it was perhaps twenty meters above them. He expected at least one submarine this close to the target. Remaining still their systems in passive mode the Mandrills watched their target pass harmlessly overhead continuing it's submersed patrol.
Once the submarine had passed, they began again. Only twenty minutes later, they had reached the target. Even this far away, their passive scanners could already see it was a decently sized underwater facility. Quickly, they began scouting the facility and found the only way in was the submarine pens. And just as he had hoped, a large cargo submarine was in the pen, making their job to destroy the facility all the more easier.
Half an hour later, once he filled Star Commander Becka Faraday on his plan and both alerted each of their warrior’s to their assigned targets and duties and each carefully went into position, he clicked his radio to all frequencies. “Go for broke,†Yu yelled into his radio, firing his torpedoes. They were joined by more fired from select warriors.
A few moments later, explosions rocked the Lyran factory. As soon as he fired his torpedoes, he darted his Undine battle armor suit towards the facility, followed by the four others belonging to his point. As he got closer, he grinned in grim satisfaction as he himself could see the devastation his torpedoes had done. The superstructure was bent, he easily saw, though as warned, the double hull of the structure kept it from imploding. As he studied the structure, his radio piped up.
“Beta-One here. Submarine pen is under our control. Continuing to phase two. Out,†reported Star Commander Becka. He didn’t bothering giving her an oral reply, rather just giving a click to the radio, letting his fellow Mandrill warrior know he received the message. Another attack from his warriors would destroy this part of the facility, he judged, before leading his point back to the others, while Becka’s warriors would capture the cargo submarine and help with their escape.
“Go for broke,†he again called back after his point returned to their assigned positions. Like before, torpedoes launched out towards the underwater facility, though this time, much more of them, as he allowed the remainder of his warriors to fire their torpedoes.
Once fired, all his warriors began their attack. As they neared the structure, he could see it far more damaged. And, this time, he could see they could enter it. Leading his point in, he could see bodies dead either by the shockwave of the torpedoes exploding or drowned.
Soon enough, they came to a bulkhead. There, he and his point mates ripped open the hatch. With water spewing into the compartment, he and his points continue to rip open the hatch so their Undines could fit. A minute later, the last of his point mates, Eric, had just entered the now half full compartment, when the first of the underwater factory’s defenders had found them.
Lightly-armed with slug pistols and having no kind of protection outside of rebreathers, Yu and his point had no issue neutralizing the threat with their ER Micro Lasers. “Alpha-One. Light resistance encountered. Moving on,†he reported through his radio to his subordinate point commanders as they continued through the large compartment.
Nearing the next hatch, they found a much more sizeable threat however. A squad of infantry in rebreathers, armed this time with pulse laser rifles and a portable medium pulse laser set up to cover a large cargo hold kept them from continuing.
“Cover now,†Yu yelled out as he used his UWU to dart back behind the wall in the now-underwater compartment. “Sitrep,†he called out into his radio a moment later as he checked his surroundings.
As the rest of his point reported in, he tested to see how thick the walls in the direction of the hatch the enemy were protecting. Once all checked in and reported by shear dumb luck all were uninjured and their suits undamaged, he reported back. “Justine, still have your torpedoes, quiaff?†he asked the one warrior in his point that should have their torpedoes still. Firing the weapons inside was dangerous but given the size of the cargo bay he hoped any detonation shockwaves would disperse.
“Aff,†the slightly younger warrior replied back. “Hold on.†A moment later, he heard her voice again. “Fire in the hole!†her voice yelled into his radio as he saw her dart out behind her wall and fire the last of the torpedoes his point had. Not a second later he heard the explosions of her torpedoes exploding and water being sucked into the next compartment.
“Alpha-One to all points. Encountered heavy resistance. Threat neutralized, but stay on your toes,†he reported into his radio as he led his point into the other compartment. Though they encountered minor resistance, none was so much as the portable medium pulse laser from earlier.
“Beta-One Alpha-One,†his radio came to life as they neared another hatch. Her voice continued as he brought up his suit’s claw, motioning his point to halt. “Respectfully request a bug out NOW!â€
“Alpha-One to Beta One. What’s the situation,†he asked the other Mandrill warrior via radio.
“Beta-Five just reported the cargo sub is having a meltdown,†was the other warrior’s slightly panicked answer. “Beta Star is in full retreat.â€
“Glad to know we’ll be seeing the fireworks we missed yesterday,†he remarked to her humorously before switching channels to speak to his subordinate point commanders as he motioned with his suit’s claw to head back towards the ocean. “Alpha-One to all points. Up to the surface NOW!â€
Without bothering to explain, confident his point commanders would begin their withdrawal, he switched frequencies to an open frequency. “This is Star Captain Yu Nevversan of the Rim Collection. A meltdown inside one of your subs is happening NOW! Highly advise you begin evacuating the factory as quickly as you can. Nevversan out.â€
He quickly led his point out into the ocean surrounding the factory, then all began making their way to the surface as quickly as they could, not even bothering for stealth. Once he hit the surface, he immediately keyed his radio to Gamma star’s frequency. “Christmas party is done, Gamma star. Need immediate pickup and extraction, over,†he called into his radio as he looked around him as more of his warriors bobbed up out from the ocean’s depths.
“Roger that, Alpha-One pickup in ten mikes,†was the reply.
“Might be dead in ten mikes, Gamma-One, but will wait until pickup,†he commented back, before immediately switching frequencies to Karen Able’s own. “Mako Alpha-One to Kings Omega Alpha-One. We have a serious problem.â€
“King lead One. What’s the problem,†she asked not a moment later, obviously waiting for his reply. Probably since she gave the go ahead for the op, he thought humorously to himself.
“Rim Collection’s belated Christmas present just turned into a wildfire,†he told the freeborn woman mirthfully as he finally caught sight of the Kirghiz flying towards them. “The submarine we planned to escape in is having a nuclear meltdown that couldn’t be helped due to battlefield conditions. Over,†was his reply.
“Oh god!†she replied with horror before switching channels. A moment later, she came back. “This is Galaxy Marshal Karen Able to all remaining Lyran forces on Kwangjong-ni. A meltdown on a submarine in your battlemech factory as a result of battle damage has been reported. Request any and all ships and submarines to vacate the area. Rim Collection forces will not, repeat not, take advantage of this accident and will stand down, though will continue to defend ourselves if attacked. Furthermore, I am offering Rim Collection support and apologies for this tragic accident. Over.â€
Later that day, on board his trinary’s assigned jumpship, Yu was enjoying an intimate coupling with Becka when the news came in. Though the factory was destroyed, Yu breathed a sigh of relief, as the Lyrans had listened to both his and Able’s warning of the impending disaster and managed to evacuate those inside not a perfect mission but certainly no reason to stop his current activity.
Launching Ceremony, Nova Cat Shipyards
Varnay System, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
9th January 3100
In an effort to begin the new century on a high note Clan Nova Cat relaunch the captured Nighlord-class Battleship Altrops into the Nova Cat fleet under the name Sacred Rite. The vessel has undergone extensive upgrades during its time in the Nova Cat shipyards and is now classed as a Nightlord II-class vessel.
Wolf Victory
Stewart, Wolf Empire
Former-Free Worlds League
14th January 3100
“To hard fought victory†Khan Jennifer Winson said looking around proudly at the Wolf spoils it had cost them three full clusters of ground troops but finally they had crushed the First and Second Stewart Home Guard Regiments securing the planet. Duke Leonard Stewart had finally been forced to admit defeat and had retreated off planet with the remains of his Land-Air Mech Wing.
“But a costly one†saKhan Amina Kerensky said “we should not have lost so much in taking this planet.â€
“We knew it would be a costly victory†Jennifer Winson said defending her troop’s success “now we must hold it.â€
“With three less clusters†Amina Kerensky repeated the losses “and both the Nova Cats and Snow Ravens are preparing to leave. Even with the Ward’s Legacy overhead we are vulnerable.â€
“Aff but both the Nova Cats and Snow Ravens did they duty and furfilled their contracts we will not force them to remain longer. The Nova Cat commander informs me that the Principle will be left in this system as Wolf Isorla.â€
“A Nova Cat joke quiaff? The Principle is a wreck it will take months to repair even if we had the resources.†She said disgusted a fully functional Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser may have made some difference not a wreck.
“Regardless it shows the Nova Cats have no interest in remaining her longer than required if they did then they would wait for their Heavy Cruiser.†Jennifer pointed out “to force them to remain now would mean we had allies who had no stomach to remain, I have no interest in that.â€
“So we hold against out enemies ourselves.â€
“We act like Wolves and we continue to take the fight to our enemies. Declare martial law here on Stewart anyone who steps out of line or acts in a criminal fashion are to be shot.†Jennifer said ferrally “have our border forces continue their series of raids keep our enemies uneasy and contact the Sea Foxes perhaps now that they have their planet we might get some trade out of them.†She said looking around again smiling “it cost us a lot but this was worth it.â€
Escape Pod
Summit System
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
21st January 3091
Archon Jessica Steiner looked out of the rear viewport at her dying WarShip the LCS Archon’s Pride as the escape pod she’d been forced into was jettisoned from the Alliance-class Cruiser. The crewmen and women who had stayed on board to fight off the Jade Falcon assault had to know they were fighting a losing battle but they continued to engage the massive Jade Falcon Nightlord vessel that bore down on the Lyran flagship.
It had started three days ago as word passed that Clan Wolf had successfully conquered Stewart in the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. Not to be outdone Clan Jade Falcon had sent forces across the border as well invading New Exford, Kandersteg and Summit in a blitzkrieg type assault that had taken the Lyrans by surprise. Before the Summit assault Jessica knew of four mercenary units, two Mountain Wolf Clusters and one full Lyran Regiment that had been destroyed by the Jade Falcon advance and now they could add her WarShip she thought.
Jessica Steiner’s escape pod was quickly captured by a Lyran DropShip which had been assigned to recover the Archon and take her to a waiting JumpShip which would take her from the system before the Jade Falcons could cause more damage to the Lyran Commonwealth. Five days later after the destruction of the LCS Archon’s Pride and a Jessica Steiner’s JumpShip exited the system from a pirate point Clan Jade Falcon landed on Summit. With the loss of their naval support and with their Archon fleeing the system the Lyran morale was broken before the Falcons even arrived and they quickly walked over the Thirty-seventh Lyran Guard Regiment and its supporting militia troops as the Jade Falcons showed they were not a Clan to be upstaged by the Wolves.
Star League Announcement
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
25th January 3100
After a relitivtively quiet spell within the Star League Protectoate another terrorist attack is committed by the Battle Armour troops this time on Liberty. While SLDF units are being deployed wholesale to the Clan front near Wolf and Jade Falcon held space Duke Bannister Cameron announces that SAS Troops will be deployed to all worlds of the Star League Protectorate to counter terrorist threats and to help train local forces. He also announces that all Mowang Small Craft whether they are owned by independent operators or companies will be stopped and searched by the SLDF until this crisis is over. The other worlds of the Star League Protectorate make note that it is now a priority to counter these threats after Bannister Cameron's world is targeted.
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Rasalhague Dominion Retaliation
Rasalhague Dominion
3rd February 3100
In a rapid series of strikes the Rasalhague Dominion retaliate against the Draconis Combine incursion into their territory with a series of heavy strikes against Draconis Combine forces. In an effort to show Rasalhague Dominion might the Courcheval assault is supported by the newly launched Leviathan II-class Battleship Alshian. This WarShip built over the world of the same name is more powerful than anything that the Draconis Combine can muster and it alone forces the Combine into retreat forcing ground forces to abandon their posts.
Five days later the Rasalhague Dominion’s second line of assaults strikes Draconis Combine with full blown invasions of Luzerne, Byesville and Labrea. On Luzerne the 333rd Assault Cluster and 332nd Assault Cluster strike against the Draconis Combine’s Eleventh District of Pesht Regulars Regiment. In an effort to bolster their forces the Fourth Yokosuka Special Landing Force Regiment their supporting WarShip the DCS Kunisaka, a Kyushu-class Frigate, and the DCS Izumo, a newly commissioned Yamato-class Battleship, to Irece however there are deep concerns on New Samarkand that the Rasalhague Dominion has no intention on stopping at the worlds it has already targeted.
Hasek Airbase
Saso City, New Syrtis
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th February 3100
Duchess Kym Hasek loved to come home to New Syrtis even if today the world was little more than her family’s private estate with the vast majority of its few hundred thousand population employed by the Haseks, by the AFFS or in a support capacity for either or both. This visit was made all the sweeter as she had returned as a newly promoted Captain in the AFFS and as an aerospace fighter pilot. Leaving her helmet in her Dagger OmniFighter Kym stepped down from her aircraft releasing her long dark hair she shook her head slightly her hair finally enjoying the freedom after the long flight. While her squadron had headed for the still repairing shipyards she’d taken a longer orbital path which had allowed her to land at the Hasek family’s private landing strip.
“I give your landing a seven out of ten.†A familiar Germanic accented voice said from behind her turning she saw Colonel Richard Steiner the commander of the First Kathil Uhlans; her old unit dressed in civilian clothing.
“Seven†she said crossly ignoring the fact that he outranked her “for a Mechboy I could understand why you wouldn’t be a very good judge.†She teased
“As a former “Mechgirl†I hope you can forgive me?†He asked she didn’t answer him with words instead she took several steps forward before jumping up into his arms kissing him. Since she had been shot and since she had been taken out of Richard’s chain of command the two had spoken often and fallen slowly in love even if they’d been separated for most of that time by dozens of light years. “Is this anyway to greet a superior officer?â€
“Shut up sir your uniform is missingâ€
“And here I thought I was fully clothed†he whispered back so the astechs around them couldn’t hear.
“Well Colonel I’m sure we can resolve that later†she said kissing him as he slowly lowered her to the ground.
“Later?â€
“After I’ve been to see mother and after we tell her about this…†She said raising her hand showing off the sparkling ring on her finger.
“Now where would you have gotten that?†He said looking bewildered
“I wonder†Kym said in a mocking tone “I might have to take it off†she said motioning with her other hand towards removing it “if that person can’t remember why it was given?†Before her fingers could touch the ring Richard’s met with hers stopping it.
“I think it looks just grand leave it be†he said smiling “how do you think she will react?†He asked as they began to move away from the fighter into the facility.
“To what?†Kym asked “to this†she said showing off the ring again “or to the fact that your parents arrive in system by the end of the week? And we get married by the end of the month?†She asked mischievously.
“Yes something like that†he said with Kym’s uncles help they had been able to keep from Duchess Deborah Hasek that the AFFS Marshal of Armies was travelling to New Syrtis. With the rest of the planet they had somehow arranged their wedding ceremony without her finding out about that either. Kym’s mother had known about their relationship and known about Richard’s proposal but the wedding was going to be a surprise since the day Kym had been shot on St Ives she’d long decided that waiting for something to happen sometimes meant it didn’t happen.
“I think she will be furious that we’ve kept this quiet. She’ll probably have a serious talk with Nathaniel about protocol and many other things†she said thinking about her uncle the Marshal of the Capellan March “and then I think she’ll be happy for us and happy that we’ll be spending some time on planet.†She said they had both decided to spend their honeymoon on New Syrtis although it wouldn’t be at the Hasek family palace instead they’d already booked a ski resort to spend their time on this winter paradise the Hasek family called home.
On the 21st February 3100 Duchess Kym Hasek married Colonel Richard Steiner to become Kym Hasek in front of hundreds of guests in a ceremony precided over by her uncle Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek himself. As Kym had suspected her mother had gone from furious to overjoyed in a matter of minutes although she was sure that her mother and uncle had a more serious discussion in private. Both Kym and Richard had already agreed that any future children would retain her family’s name ensuring that the Hasek family, and name, remained where it was.
Royal Birth, Royal Hospital of Crimson
Canopus, Magistracy of Canopus
13th February 3100
In the capital of the Magistracy of Canopus an heir is born Duchess Danai Centrella II, named for her aunt Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion, is born to Magestix Ilsa Centrella the leader of the Magistracy. The choice of naming is an intentional attempt by Ilsa Centrella to provoke a reaction from her brother Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao of the Capellan Confederation while the father of the new Duchess is kept a close secret by the Magestix.
Border Raid
Concord, Wolf Empire
20th February 3100
“Today hasn’t been a good day†Alexander Carlyle said it was the understatement of the decade his Gray Death Legion Mercenary Command had been devastated by Clan Wolf as the unit had supported an Isle of Skye raid into the ‘Wolf Empire.’ More than a battalion of the Legion along with Alex’s wife Samantha lay dead on the field he was trying to put personal tragedy aside for now he needed to focus on getting wat was left of the command out. “We’re not dead yet†he said barely believing the words “the Skye units are planning on making a break for their DropShips in the morning we’re being tasked with holding their western flank. We’re going to hit the Wolves hard initially and then fade back to Skye lines. Once we reach the spaceport we’re going to board Alchemist and Bathazar and we are going to get off this rock. The Legion has survived for nearly eighty years it will not die here.†He said confidently there were two other battalions of the command on Glengarry, the unit’s base of operations, along with their Battle Armour production facility and Alex’s daughter Dana was on Terra she had never wanted to be involved in the mercenary trade she was a doctor and wanted to help people but after today he was sure she would inherit it all. She was a Carlyle she knew the Legion’s history she would see the command was alright.
The next morning came quickly the Gray Death Legion did as Alex had explained. As the Isle of Skye forces moved the mercenary’s two Battalions charged into the heart of the 104th Striker Cluster of Clan Wolf causing heavy damage to the unit but at a great cost. By the time the Legion returned to the Isle of Skye lines only a reinforced battalion worth of mercenaries survived included among those who had fallen was Alexander Carlyle who had fallen engaging a Wolf Timber Wolf OmniMech in an effort to stall the Wolves advance.
Once to their DropShips the remains of the Gray Death Legion departed the system with the Isle of Skye forces heading to regroup back on Glengarry while word was sent out to Dr Dana Carlyle on Terra of the tragedy that had struck the Legion and her family.
Clan Raid
Tabayama, Tabayama Prefecture
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
23rd February 3100
Clan Nova Cat begins the new century like the end of the first century by launching a raid against Tabayama in the Draconis Combine. Escorting the ground forces is the Nova Cat’s newest the Sacred Rite while the ground forces feature two newly build Nova Cat Mk II Heavy OmniMechs. Built along the same line as the original Nova Cat the new OmniMech is seventy tons and can travel up to 63kph and featured Reflective armour, advanced weapons and equipment such as Streak Long Range Missiles and Extended Range Pulse Lasers. Both test Mechs are very successful during the battle with the Combine militia troops and the Nova Cat’s retreat from after winning each encounter with the defenders. The display of the new OmniMech and escorting Battleship both show that Clan Nova Cat’s Warden beliefs are slowly being eroded by their ambition and drive to expand.
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Nightlord II is up
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/nightlord-ii-class-battleship/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/nightlord-ii-class-battleship/)
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Got the writing bug back ;D
Border Raid
Harsefeld, Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
12th March 3100
In a border raid that turns into a full invasion the Oriente Protectorate assault the Capellan Confederation held system of Harsefeld. As part of the assaulting forces are a company of brand new Leonidas Medium Battle Armour suits. This is the suit’s first deployment and the Oriente Protectorate shows just how good they are employing the suits as snipers with the David Light Gauss Rifles and to clear out enemy strongholds with their Firedrake Needlers. The militia troops on Harsefeld fall quickly to the Oriente invasion with the Capellan Confederation not expecting an assault from Oriente. Two days later the Oriente Protectorate further test Capellan defences launching an assault on Carbonis bringing that under Oriente control after a short one sided battle. These two successes prove to Oriente officials beyond a doubt that the Capellan border is a weak one.
Promotion Ceremony
Dieron, Military District of Dieron
Draconis Combine
17th March 3100
By appointment of Warlord Minoru Kurita Duke Akira Tormark is made Warlord of the Dieron Military District much to the surprise of many within the DCMS and the Draconis Combine nobility. Tormark only Duke of Al Na’ir for five years previously had known links to the Draconis Combine’s intelligence community leading many to believe that Minoru Kurita planned a purge of the Dieron Military District and that Akira Tormark would be his instrument.
Royal Parade
Royal Mile Street, Avalon City
24th March 3100
Standing on an observation platform overlooking the length of Royal Mile Street First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion could not be more proud as he watched the two lines of BattleMechs approach. On the right stood the Third Royal Davion Guards RCT what had this week finally rejoined the Davion Brigade of Guards after being deactivated during the Clan War. On the left stood the leading elements of the Second Royal Regimental Brigade of the SLDF, McCafee’s Marksmen, led by General Vladamir Rostov’s SM1 Tank Destroyer. The Second Royal had been formed form elements of the original Third Royal Davion and ComStar’s 208th Division after the two commands had been demolished by Clan Smoke Jaguar on Luzerne.
Today marked a step in the right direction for the AFFS and for the SLDF it once again completed the Davion Brigade of Guards and it allowed the Second Royal to shake off some of its AFFS routes and focus on serving the Star League Defence Force. It also marked a day for retirements as General Rostov and several of the original members of the Third Royal stepped down from SLDF service. Victor knew that several of the original Third Royal Guardsmen were returning to the Federated Suns to settle and had already been offered positions in companies and academies across the Federated Suns.
He watched as the first vehicles and BattleMechs approached his position raising his arm he saluted them as did his wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion “a good day†she said quietly as they maintained the salute for the two passing regiments.
“I was just thinking that†Victor replied with a small smile
“Great minds think alike†Danai said “today everyone will know that the Davion Guard have returned to their full strength.†She said it was only a single RCT but it was also a message the Third Davion had been deactivated as the AFFS honoured the warriors who now served in the SLDF and on the day that the SLDF unit’s commander stepped down the AFFS High Command cleared the “new†Third Davion for active service as an RCT “everyone will be looking for your next move.â€
“The public announcement that the Third Royal Davion Guards RCT will be spending the next year on Fletcher maintaining our links to that world and training with the Second Royal Regimental Brigade as they rest and refit.â€
“That should ruffle a few feathers†Danai commented none of the Succession States had deployed military forces in the Star League Protectorate since the Manei Domini crisis and even then it had been purely for the duration of the crisis. Now not just any AFFS unit but a Davion Guard RCT would spend an entire year with the SLDF no doubt it would further show that the Federated Suns considered the Star League Protectorate an ally and one worth supporting.
“Bannister seemed to think so when I suggested it†he said smirking as the two Regiments continued to move past “given that there’s a new Warlord settling into life on Dieron he thought it would be nice for him to know that there is a front-line SLDF AND a front-line AFFS unit in the area.â€
“Not that the new Warlord would feel adventurous.†Danai said
“No I’m sure he wouldn’t dream of it†Victor replied his words as mocking as Danai’s “but their undisciplined troops might think they could impress their new Warlord and we can’t have that.â€
“Two brigades should do that†Danai observed “any naval support?†She asked Danai may not have been an active part of the defence of the Federated Suns but deep down she was a military officer just like the one he’d fallen in love with during the Clan War. To this day she often read the same reports he did keeping up with what was happening on their borders and within the Federated Suns.
“Reinhart wanted to send the Silver Lance but she’s barely finished fitting out†he said mentioning the FSN’s newest Robinson Block III-class Transport “so this time around we’ll rely on SLDF naval support. If something happens this side of the border we have plenty firepower in the region we can move and the DCMS knows it.†He said confidently Danai nodded her reply as the two military commands continued to pass them the sheer size of the two commands that were travelling through the Federated Suns capital alone made for a powerful sight.
 
Medical Facility
Pirate’s Den, Pirate Cluster
Periphery
29th March 3100
He entered the medical facility confidently without his personal guards walking right up to Quen Portia “Torrent†Ryan’s two bodyguards. Both men were covered in dirt no doubt from the recent fight against his Strychnine Slavers like a few hundred others who had rallied to Torrent’s side during the recent fight. Neither of them stood in his way instead allowing Nathaniel Gordon a clear view of Portia Ryan’s semi-naked corpse the doctors had worked on her for six hours but to no avail the pirate Queen was dead. Nathaniel immediately drew his heavy Sternacht Python Auto-Pistol aiming he fired three shots into her body surprising, but not shocking, the nearby doctor. “You served her well!†Nathaniel said loudly taking in the guards and the medical staff “but Torrent is dead I rule the Cluster now†he said glancing around meeting their eyes “you will offer the Strychnine Slavers your complete and unconditional service and obedience failure to do so will result in immediate justice over the last twenty-three years Torrent allowed things to slide in the Cluster I will not.†He said “I will also bring prosperity to the Cluster from now on we are done with small targets instead now our eyes turn on the Federated Suns we will make them fear us once more.†He said finally re-holstering the Python glancing one last time at the body before turning to leave he stopped once more “you two do your last duty to her and see she has a proper send off.†He said not waiting for their reply he marched out of the facility to see to other issues facing his Pirate Cluster.
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great update!
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Lot of reading to do!
Here's more
My thanks to James Tanaga for the continued Rim Collection storyline with the Lyrans turning on the Rim Collection. The Jade Falcons and Gray Death Legion see a change at the top. While the Wolves, Oriente Protectorate and Filtvelt Coalition go looking for trouble... Hope you enjoy
Pocologan
Kaumberg Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
1st April 3100
General Artur Von Danzuch looked out the window, watching the fleet of JumpShips slowly gather at the jump point, carrying two full RCT’s, an independent BattleMech regiment, two mercenary battalions, and two full independent aerospace regiments. It took three months of constantly urging the Estates General, but at last he and the exiled Duke Michael Sherris of Timbuktu had convinced them of the necessity of the strike, overriding the Archon herself.
“Today will be a day long remembered. We will finally return Timbuktu and the other planets to the Lyran Commonwealth as they should beand punish the Able upstarts and their pet Clanners,†remarked the other man at his side.
Artur himself did not care of the hateful duke, yet he did have his uses. “I put the last of my political capital into this, Duke Sherris,†he warned the other man. “If this fails-,†he was cut off.
“It won’t,†insisted the other man, causing Artur to turn his head to look at the other man. He could see the fires of hatred and determination in the man’s ice-blue eyes. “The only defenders we will be facing are one of their cluster combat teams and any planetary militia stupid enough to come to their aid. By this time next week, the three planets will be under our complete control.â€
Finally, he nodded to the other man. “Very well,†he answered, before turning and pushed himself across the bridge of the LCS Carl Steiner, the newest Hyperion-class heavy cruiser of the Lyran Commonwealth’s Navy.
Soon enough, he grabbed on the back of the chair, where Leutnant-Kommodore Bridgette Davis, the captain of the Carl Steiner, sat. “All JumpShips have reported in. We can jump at your command, General,†the slightly older naval officer with gray hair answered his unasked question.
“Good,†he commented back. “Signal the fleet. We will jump in an hour,†he ordered to his senior naval officer.
“Aye General,†he heard her response as the duke soon joined them.
“Why aren’t we jumping now, General,†the younger man demanded. “We have the backing of the Estates General!â€
“Patience, your grace I have my reasons, which you will see for yourself soon enough,†he assured the other man as he rolled his eyes, though was careful to not let the younger noble see him do it. The duke was itching for vengeance against the stain the Collection had brought to his family, Artur well knew, just as he was itching for redemption in the eyes of his countrymen.
Nearly an hour later, his reasons became clear as day when the Carl Steiner’s comm officer yelled out, “Message from Tharkad, General, Kommodore. Sending it to your terminal now, ma’am.â€
Looking over the kommodore’s shoulder, he and the Duke of Timbuktu caught site of the real time hologram of the Archon herself. “Archon,†he greeted his nominal ruler. “Any encouraging words for our forces as we begin our righteous actions,†he asked her, knowing full well the reporters embedded onboard the Carl Steiner were listening in.
The Archon’s hologram visibly sighed, before nodding her head. “Your forces are go for launch, General,†she reported to Artur. A moment passed before she continued. “The entire Commonwealth is watching you. Be careful and don’t take any chances. May you return carrying your shields, or upon them,†she intoned to the bridge, paraphrasing the orders of the ancient Spartans of Terra thousands of years ago.
He nodded to her hologram as he caught her staring into him before she signed off, all the while he could hear the bridge crew whispering among themselves excitedly. Her orders were clear. Take no unnecessary risks and that meant the Carl Steiner, itself in the middle of its final trials, would back out if the Collection’s Whirlwind-class destroyer or New Syrtis-class carrier was encountered.
Their strikes were only the first wave of Operation: Wut. He smiled ferally to himself. If they were successful, the second wave, led by the Third Royal Guards RCT, would strike at either All Dawn or the Collection’s capital world of Gilfillan’s Gold, depending on political and military considerations.
“Go for launch,†he repeated the Archon’s order to the Kommodore, and nodded to himself as the naval officer gave out orders to start the clock for the fleet to jump. He had put his very future on the line, he knew. Whatever happened in the coming weeks would decide it.
Operation: Wut, the Lyran’s answer for the Collection’s strike on Kwanjong-ni, begins. Elements of the Fifth Alliance Guards RCT target the worlds of Halifax and Wiltshire, while the Twenty-fifth Arcturan Guards RCT and the Seventeenth Lyran Regulars Regiment target Timbuktu. Wave Two of the Operation begins to form on Kaumberg. The Fourth Rim Lancers Gamma and Omega Clusters, the Third Rim Lancers Beta Cluster on Timbuktu effectively go to ground on Timbuktu, along with the planet’s three militia clusters. While waiting for reinforcements, they launch guerrilla attacks against the Lyrans, hoping to weaken the invaders.
Post Trial of Position, Senior Officer Changing Room
Sudeten, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
3rd April 3100
Jana Pryde rubbed the sweat from her brow in the changing rooms stripping off her tank top she reached for a towel what she needed was a long shower. Behind her she heard the door open but she didn’t care about being seen undressed she was a warrior not a moaning civilian. “Congratulations on your win, saKhan†the instantly recognizable voice of Ruel Chistu said after a moment Jana tensed for a moment almost expecting his words to be followed by an attack.
“Thank you Khan my aim is to serve our Clan†she said in a rehearsed answer not turning to face him she didn’t mind being seen this way but this man creeped her out.
“Aff, of course it is and in this new position you will be at my beck and call†Ruel replied he sounded closer to her.
“I will serve our Clan until my dying breath†she replied moments later she felt his hands on her shoulders and felt Ruel’s breath on her skin causing goosebumps to rise all down her arms.
“Yes you will my young saKhan†he whispered “and your dying breath will be as soon as I can arrange.†He said she could see his broken tooth smile in the corner of her eyes “enjoy your shower†he said moving his hands slowly over her shoulders and back as he stepped away. Jana did not move from her position until she heard the door open and then close behind her Khan, now she really needed a shower and she needed a plan to survive that man.
Command Office, Gray Death Legion HQ
Glengarry, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
9th April 3100
The trip from Terra to Glengarry had been uneventful which had given Dr Dana Carlyle lots of time to think. She’d taken an extended leave of absence from the Geneva Medical Centre to see to her family’s interests but now she was here she didn’t know what to do. She wasn’t a warrior or a commander she looked after people the most she’d done anything like this was administration paperwork. Now she was the owner of the Gray Death Legion it was her right to command it and she was seventy-two percent owner of the Gray Death Industries Battle Armour production and she didn’t know where to start. On her dad’s desk sat paperwork showing the remaining personnel of the Gray Death Legion and their equipment she sat on one of the guests seats reaching over to pick up the folder. She looked at the old chair and everything hit her that chair had belonged to Grayson Carlyle the founder of the Legion and his son, her father, Alexander.
She remembered her father sitting there all those years after being trained by his father he knew everything that he needed to do how could she take his place? Sitting back in the chair she continued to look at the chair thinking a thought crossed her mind something her father had said that his father had told him about when the Gray Death Legion had formed. Grayson Carlyle had been trained by his father to be a MechWarrior but he knew nothing about administration when he’d first taken command of the troops who would eventually form the Legion her grandfather had told Alexander that he’d taken it one hour at a time since waiting until the next day was just asking for trouble. So she decided to do the same take this hour first read through these personnel and equipment files and see what happens in an hour’s time.
Three uneventful hours later she had finished reading the files and nothing worse had happened. Looking out the windows she saw the new recruits being put through their paces by the drill instructors those young men and women would be the future of her family’s, no her, command. Deciding that they needed to see that she was not done she decided to get changed and join them maybe give this life a chance.
Border Raid
Uhuru, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
13th April 3100
Following their success in turning back an Isle of Skye/Mercenary raid on Concord Clan Wolf push onto Uhuru intending on inflicting further damage on the Lyrans for their trespassing on Wolf claimed soil. On Uhuru they find the Lyran’s Commonwealth’s Sixth Commonwealth Guards supported by the Star League Defence Force’s Third Avatar’s Brigade.
Although severely outnumbered the Wolves are able to lead the defenders in circles as they probe defences and cause damage for nearly eight days before retreating from the system. During the battles the SLDF debut the Tribune Mobile Tactical Command Vehicle which is far more mobile than previous designs while also able to defend itself. The Lyrans also deploy their Hetzer Jagtiger III Heavy Tank the fuel cell powered engine based on an enlarged Hetzer hull the vehicle has a forward fixed snub-nosed Long Tom Artillery cannon supported by turret mounted Short Range Missile launchers and Machine Guns with fourteen tons of Hardened Armour. The design proves to be very successful especially against Wolf battle armour and vehicles and its success are only limited by the small number deployed by the Lyrans. Following the battle both the Lyran Commonwealth Quartermasters and those of the Star League Defence Force approach Quickcell looking to purchase more vehicles of the design.
Border conflict
Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
16th April 3100
Further pushing by the Oriente Protectorate against the Capellan Confederation as Oriente ground forces supported by mercenary commands and three Monolisk-class Destroyers invade the systems of Bernado, Ibstock and Suzano each of the systems offer heavy resistance however the when the Oriente WarShips resort to orbital bombardment of the Capellan military targets the ground forces surrender quickly. Oriente’s invasion of multiple systems brings their actions to the attention of Sian and of its neighbours in the former-Free Worlds League.
Rim Collection/Lyran Commonwealth border
Periphery
25th April 3100
In answer to the Lyran’s strikes, The Rim Collection responds by sending the First and Second Raptor Cavalry Clusters to Wiltshire and Halifax respectively to support the Fourth Rim Lancers’ Beta and Alpha Clusters, while elements from the First and Second Rim Lancers CCT’s arrive on All Dawn, meeting up with the Second Mandrill Battle CCT, the Third Mandrill Battle Cluster, and the Nineteenth Mandrill Striker Cluster in preparation to retaliate against General Artur Von Danzuch’s forces on Timbuktu.
Scouting Patrol
Meowing, Periphery
27th April 3100
For the last week a lance of Mechs supported by a company of armour and an equal amount of infantry of the Filtvelt Coalition’s First Guardians Regiment had been based on the world of Meowing. MechWarriors Bruce Flanigan and Emily McCormark were bored they’d patrolled the inhabited continent everyday and nothing “why are we here? Em†Bruce asked walking his Shadow Hawk slowly over the largely abandoned continent in total there were four hundred and seventy-two inhabitants on the planet barely enough to qualify it as being inhabited.
“Why you asking me?†She asked moving her Wasp slowly alongside the medium BattleMech.
“Because you know everything and I’m just a MechJock.†He replied
“Oh you’re so sweet†she replied Bruce remained quiet for a moment after being partnered with her so long he knew that she wanted to speak more. “It’s something along the lines of the big wigs on Filtvelt are scared of nearby threats that have finally come into full view. They have lots of big stompy Mechs and of large spacecraft that fly through space and our bosses are worried that they will want our planets.â€
“So they send a Mech lance here? I love being the bait on the end of the hook.â€
“And so do the guys on Ulksollen and Fugeres just part of the job.â€
“This isn’t what I expected when I joined the Guardians we’re supposed to be a defence force this seems to be expansionist.†He said
“A forward defence is the best defence we’ll be here until they get the HPG online. Of course then they will need a defence force for it.â€
“And how exactly are we doing that? HPGs cost a fortune.†Bruce said for the same price of the three HPGs they could have re-equipped the entire Filtvelt military.
“Thank the Star League Communications Department†Emily replied “that’s who they techs are on the DropShip and why we took some neigotiators with us. Local labour and materials Star League expertise and walla! We have a new HPG.â€
“And the Star League gets a freebie listening post? The Nova Cats invade here and our first job will be to send a message to Filtvelt and then that same message will go to the other Star League states.â€
“And the Star League being the great big mega power that it is will have a big long talk about it and do nothing while our people are torn to pieces by an expansionist enemy. Why is it we can see this isn’t going to work?â€
“Because we are practical people†she said “not that I think a new army would stop the Nova Cats†she said going on.
“Nope but at least the good old SLDF will know they are coming you know you’d think history would tell them something ComStar were based in the Free Rasalhague Republic and that didn’t help them much.†He said continuing to grumble Emily had heard this argument a hundred times before it didn’t matter to Bruce that ComStar had its own agenda during the Clan Invasion only that one nation had been hung out to dry once by the other states and that he could see it happening again. She just hoped that they had been rotated off this planet before the Nova Cats arrived in the system.
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My thanks to James Tanaga for the work on the Rim Collection story
Hell’s Horses Assault
Jade Falcon OZ, Coyote OZ, Lyran Commonwealth
5th May 3100
Following the death of Khan Jake Kabrinski on Montmarault the Hell’s Horses launch a series of assaults on worlds in the Jade Falcon OZ and Coyote OZ’s and on Crimond in the Lyran Commonwealth. It costs the Hell’s Horses four front-line clusters of troops but it wins their new Mongol tactics tear through their opponents with little thought towards their own safety showing both their Clan and Inner Sphere enemies a new type of combat.
Following the victories the Teresia Cooper a Star Colonel with the Eighth Hoard Cluster wins Trials of Possession to become the new Khan of Clan Hell’s Horses. She immediately orders all new clusters raised by the Hell’s Horses to be raised as Hoard Clusters, a move that Jake Kabrinski had avoided making due to opposition from within the Clan, following this decision she faces three separate Circles of Equals in one of which she kills saKhan Tammy Del Villar placing one of her trusted warriors Valterri Seidman into the position of saKhan without any further resistance six new Hoard Clusters are raised by the Hell’s Horses.
Ghost Bear Raids
Asgard, Irece Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
11th May 3100
For an instant the two Mechs were linked by a particle cannon shot all it had taken was a single blast to the right spot and the Draconis Combine Dragon II BattleMech was dead its cockpit incinerated by the Ghost Bear attack. Sitting inside the cockpit of the Mech the pilot Warlord Minoru Kurita’s second born child Michiko Kurita is dead before her Mech hits the ground. Half of her Regiment, the Seventh Sword of Light, were destroyed around her with the rest being routed by the Ghost Bears. In orbit the DCS Kujang, an Inazuma II-class Corvette, had been torn to pieces by Ghost Bear naval forces.
The Draconis Combine had struck quickly using the Sea Fox held trade system of Itabiana as a stepping stone they had hit Caripare and Asgard within hours of each other overwhelming defences before they could respond. Within hours of the attacks Rasalhague Dominion troops landed troops on Kiamba and Kanowit beginning two further attacks quickly bringing two further worlds into the Rasalhague Dominion. These territorial gains keep the Draconis Combine uneasy and cement the Rasalhague Dominion as being the largest of all the Clan controlled states.
LCS Hatchet (Monolith-class JumpShip)
Pocologan
Kaumberg Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
19th May, 3100
“The Collection and their bastard clanners are bleeding us dry here on Timbuktu,†Hauptmann-General Kathy Parks watched the real-time hologram of General Von Danzuch report to both her and the real-time hologram of Archon Jessica Steiner. “Their paramilitary and militia forces have my units pinned inside the capital with heavy sniper fire and guerrilla fighting, aided by air support and artillery cover.†He paused, before continuing. “We may need to scrap Wave Two and instead reinforce our current positions inside the Rim Collection, Archon.â€
“There’s that much insurgent activity on Timbuktu? General,†the Archon asked, astonished.
“Yes Archon,†General Von Danzuch admitted, as he caught Kathy’s eyes before darting them back to the Archon, silently imploring her to tell the Archon the other news.
Kathy gave him a silent nod as she spoke up. “Another reason to scrap Wave Two is the Fifth Alliance Guards RCT units assigned to take Halifax and Wiltshire haven’t reported in. The Collection’s news services are having a field day showing images of our drop zones being overrun on Wiltshire and prisoners being led to a prison planetside as well as reporting large amounts of battlefield wreckage on Halifax. Our forces there seemed to have bunkered down in a mountain pass however,†the older woman succinctly reported to her Archon.
The holo-image of the Lyran ruler visibly sighed. “Damnit,†she bit out. Kathy well knew the reason. The whole operation was designed to publicly show the Lyran Commonwealth could deal with external threats publicly while also crippling their weakest enemy. The recapturing of three worlds lost in the Six Week War would have massively raised Lyran morale when it was dreadfully needed. That the Estates General had used its seldom-used Emergency Powers to overrule the Archon and put their support being Operation: Wut had solidified their stance on the matter.
“It seems the Collection has turned your Operation: Wut into the meat grinder I warned you about,†their Archon accused the general.
“A very real possibility I also warned the Estates General before they agreed with the operation,†the general reminded her; causing Kathy rolled her eyes at both.
“What is done is done,†the Archon bit out reluctantly. All three knew this was not the time for political opposition against one another. There would be a time for that later, but for now, they would behave as proper military officers. “Hauptmann-General,†the Archon reluctantly spoke to Kathy. “Redeploy your Wave Two forces to reinforce our forces on Timbuktu and Halifax I want both worlds seized.â€
“Yes ma’am,†Kathy acknowledged the order crisply. “I’ll deploy the last of the Fifth Alliance to Halifax, reinforced with Leutnant-General Neidermann’s Eighth Lyran Guards RCT.†Sending what would effectively be a reinforced RCT was overkill for that world, but without it, Timbuktu would for the most part be cut off from any future Lyran aid without jumping into Rim Collection territory and that was unacceptable. “The remainder of my forces will make our way to Timbuktu and reinforce General Von Danzuch’s forces.†That too would be overkill; Kathy thought privately, with her Third Royal Guards RCT and the rebuilt Fourteenth Lyran Regulars BattleMech regiment, itself reinforced with conventional armor and infantry regiments from across the province to realistically form an additional RCT with the Fourteenth.
“How quickly can you deploy?†her Archon asked the nearly retired general.
Kathy took a quick glance at the latest report her JumpShip captains had given to her two hours ago, before turning her head back to the holo-conference. “The last of my JumpShips will be ready to jump in roughly six hours, ma’am.â€
Her realm’s ruler audibly sighed and grimaced, as well as General Von Danzuch and Kathy well understood both. It effectively meant Operation: Wut’s Wave Two was being cancelled and with it, any hope for the quick, clean war her realm desperately needed. Now, the war would be favorable to the Collection, if they held them off on Timbuktu.
A long moment passed as the Archon glared at General Von Danzuch. “Any other issues I should be told of before we end this conference, General?â€
“Only that the exiled duke is demanding to be allowed to lead an assault into the Clan Merchant district here in Greene,†he informed her.
“Likely an excuse to draw more blood against the Collection, General,†the Archon replied.
“I thought so too. I already gave orders to all our units to allow our military police contingents to handle the Clanner Merchants. For now, the mercs are abiding by my orders, but their contracts are with the duke. Not much I can do on my end here except try and keep my units in between them and the Merchants,†the general reported.
“Do as much as you can, general. You and your forces are permitted any and all use of force to keep the mercs from engaging the local Clan population,†the Archon informed him from her new flagship. “And keep our reporters as far away from combat as you can. The longer we keep the news of Timbuktu becoming a meat grinder...â€
“I understand, Archon. I’ll keep them as well out of the way as I can. And rest assured if the duke and his mercs move against the Clan civilians, we’ll move against them ourselves. That much we both agree on,†the general promised the Archon. Her younger self would have been uncomfortable being in the middle of the two political opponents, but now at sixty-seven years old, on the verge of retirement, Kathy took it in stride.
Her Archon’s holo-image nodded. “Report back every twenty-four hours or if anything else happens,†she informed both. After Kathy and her fellow officer answered they would, their Archon’s holo-image snapped off, soon followed by General Von Danzuch’s.
“When it rains, it pours,†Kathy muttered to herself as she lifted her sixty-seven year old body from the chair.
LCS Iron Fist (Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser)
Skye, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
19th May 3100
Standing in her stateroom onboard the Lyran Commonwealth Navy’s newest flagship the Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser Iron Fist Archon Jessica Steiner stared at the screen in front of her looking straight at the Duke of Skye Robert Ryan Kelswa-Steiner. “How could you have been so stupid?†She asked her flagship had been heading to the Jade Falcon front to reinforce General of Armies Aiden Gray on Pandora following successful Jade Falcon assaults on Ballymore, Graceland, Koinz and Benfled. Skye which had already failed in its bid to raid Clan Wolf space had, instead of licking their wounds and preparing to defend against another Clan’s onslaught Skye, had done what Skye always did the rebellious thing, the wrong thing, and had struck at the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.
“Archon…†Robert began
“DON’T!†Jessica snapped she’d spoken to this man for less than one hour and still he could not give her a reasonable answer “listen to my words very carefully and make sure your wife hears them as well.†She said calmly “I am Archon of the Lyran Commonwealth my commands come from Arcturus. You run the Isle of Skye because I say you can run the Isle of Skye just like the Kell’s run their little Clan because of MY say so.†She said angrily “I have already commanded our forces to turn back the Rim Collection and their bastardized Clan allies, we are already facing Clan Jade Falcon aggression and you, YOU, anger not just another Clan but also our Inner Sphere allies’ people that could have helped us against the Wolves!†She said losing her temper completely with the man. “How stupid can you be?†She asked again seeing his lips begin to move in response she cut in “DON’T answer, don’t even try†she said. “Skye and Arcturus need to speak with one voice. We need to silence the Rim Collection and stop Able’s forces before we have three fronts to worry about and we need to stop the Jade Falcons; the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth can wait it seems Clan Wolf is quite content to continue to chew up their forces.†She said reiterating her plans the Rim Collection, with the backing of the remains of two Clans was too big a threat to ignore she’d already cut orders for additional naval assets to be rotated into the area to support General Artur Von Danzuch’s forces who were currently on Timbuktu they wouldn’t arrive in theatre for weeks but they’d be a significant support to his ground forces and the LCS Carl Steiner. While her WarShip and several regiments of ground forces were due to join in the defence of Pandora. She didn’t need Skye starting a third front her nation couldn’t survive it.
“We did kill Corrine Marik on Kalidasa†Robert said proudly ignoring the fact that his troops had retreated from Kalidasa shortly after killing the leader of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.
“And that, Robert, is the only reason I haven’t moved to remove you.†Jessica admitted “you picked your target and executed it very well I need that part of your leadership†she admitted the Lyrans had claimed three systems before striking at Kalidasa. There they had defeated several assault forces which the Marik-Stewarts had intended on using against the Wolves or the Isle of Skye and then they had executed the perfect headhunter strike to take out Corrine Marik before evacuating with minimal additional damage. “The next time you want to pull a stunt how about you ask me first?†She said more softly “you never know I might even agree.â€
“Yes Archon†Robert said glancing at the floor.
“Now I need you to hold within our borders until we beat back the Jade Falcons if not they will be bearing down on your Isle.†She reminded him if the Jade Falcons and Hell’s Horses continued on their current path both Clans would smash through Lyran lines crushing Arcturus and the Ruins of Gabriel facility on Odessa before entering the Isle of Skye on their charge towards Terra and Jessica knew that Robert did not want that threat hanging over him.
“I understand we will watch the Wolves and Marik-Stewarts for reprisals and support your efforts in any way that we can.†Robert promised seeing that Jessica Steiner had calmed slightly and that the Archon needed Skye’s help, which she would get one way or another.
For decades Skye had been a thorn in House Steiner’s side under her father rein they had become closer but he had underestimated Jessica Steiner instead of sending him a strongly worded message like Peter Steiner-Davion would have she had come directly to Skye on hearing what his forces had done. She had threatened him directly with her Battle-cruiser hovering over his planet knowing that with a single order she could have incinerated his home and family and that there was nothing that any of his forces could have done. She had made her point loudly and clearly she was Archon the Isle of Skye was hers and it would remain that way. For now all Robert could do is silently pray the Jade Falcons would kill the Archon and without an heir the power vacuum would give Skye the opportunity it needed to grab true power for itself but knew the falcons had failed to kill her once so he’d support her and retain what they had for now. Perhaps if the war on the far side of the Commonwealth with the Collection went bad he could put political pressure on her to stand down.
 
LCS Hatchet (Monolith-class JumpShip)
Timbuktu
Rim Collection, Periphery
20th May 3100
Kathy took a glance out the window as the Hatchet and the other JumpShips of her fleet slowly made their way to their Lyran sisters in orbit of Timbuktu. She knew the LCS Carl Steiner, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, was orbiting the world, providing orbital support for their forces ground side. That thought made her a little queasy, for the Archon refused to allow the Carl Steiner’s sistership the LCS Fleet Admiral Lynn Hood to join them for this assault, arguing Kaumberg would be in need of its protection until additional fleet assets arrived.
It was all quiet on the bridge, as the crew quietly did their jobs. Too quiet, she thought. She was a ground pounder and being in space always unnerved her. But for some reason, today was different. She couldn’t point out what precisely was bothering her, but she couldn’t shake the feeling she and her fleet had somehow walked into a trap.
She was soon proven correct as she jumped in surprise. “Radiation spike!†yelled out the sailor manning the tactical station. “Two warships just jumped in system, with more signals being reported,†the young man yelled out, as she turned to him. “IFF verified. It’s the RCS Elysium and Resolute, ma’am, with more Rim Collection transponders. All behind us!â€
“Dear God!†Kathy mumbled under her breath. Her JumpShip, the LCS Hatchet, a Monolith-class JumpShip, was no match for either of the Collection’s two warships bearing down on them. And with roughly four days to planet side, the odds of their survival were definitely not in their favor.
“Deploy all fighters!†the Hatchet’s captain yelled out as panic began to seep into the crew. “Comms. Order all DropShip to immediately disembark from their JumpShips and make full speed dirt-side now!†He turned to Kathy. “Get going ma’am. We’ll hold them off in space as long as we can.â€
Gathering herself, she nodded and unbuckled herself from the chair. Pushing herself to the exit, she then turned around. “Captain!†Once she had the man’s attention, she snapped a quick salute to the other officer and was promptly returned one, before she quickly exited the bridge.
As she made her way to her DropShip, the Excalibur DropShip Aurelius, all she could think about was how the hell the damn Collection had got the drop on them and caught them with their pants down. Minutes later, she buckled herself into her seat on the Aurelius as she felt it be jettisoned off the Hatchet towards the planet. It was only one of dozens of DropShips attempting to get to the safety of the planet as Collection and Lyran fighters jockeyed around them. As the DropShips began their run the JumpShips began lighting off their K-F Drives intent on escaping the system before being overrun by Collection units.
RCS Elysium (Whirlwind-class Destroyer)
Timbuktu
Rim Collection, Periphery
22nd May, 3100
Khan Aemelia Showers of the Mandrills looked out the window as the space battle finally died down. She allowed herself a small feral smile the Lyran WarShip assigned to the system the LCS Carl Steiner remained active in the system but the vessel was severely damaged and would not be a threat to her forces already the Hyperion-class Heay Cruiser was heading deeper into the system to avoid further combat. The ship would remain a distant threat.
The intel obtained on Wiltshire and Halifax suggesting a large Lyran force mobilizing on Pocologan had proven correct and for that, she was thankful. The Lyrans had not expected the Collection to react as quickly as it did to their forces. Did they really expect us to react as just another periphery or Inner Sphere power? She snorted derisively the Collection, for all its freebirths, was more Clan than ever and they had proven that in the last few days.
“The majority of the Lyran DropShips have been destroyed, Khan, including all of their assault DropShips and pocket warships.†The Raptor Star Commodore commanding the Elysium reported.
“Can we get to the remaining Lyran DropShips before they make planetfall?†she asked instead.
“Neg,†the Raptor answered simply, “and the majority of the Lyran JumpShips have jumped clear of the system.†He said disappointingly their original plan had been to try and capture JumpShips but the Lyrans had been ready and as soon as their DropShips were clear the JumpShips had attempted emergency jumps out of the system. Two JumpShips had failed their jump and now most likely had broken K-F Drives if the Collection held the system beyond this battle it would be possible to repair them.
“We will begin our own invasion, quiaff,†she remarked loudly so the entire bridge crew could hear her as the turned around, allowing them all to see the feral smirk on her face. Judging by the satisfied faces looking at her, she knew her Mandrills and the Raptors here today would be enjoying themselves. They were Warriors, after all.
“Seyla,†the Star Commodore reverently answered her and was answered in kind by the rest of the bridge crew. She nodded to herself as she watched them go back to their duties, before turning around to look at the planet below.
Soon, Aemelia knew she and her reinforcements she commanded would land planet side and the Elysium would begin orbital support and JumpShip protection duties along with the Titan Monitors while the Resolute would leave the system. Indeed, already the Resolute had already turned and had begun its journey to the system’s jump points as it recollected its fighters and power armor marines. So long as the Resolute kept itself from any one system longer then it was needed or took to recharge its K-F batteries, it meant the Lyrans could not realistically track the repaired vassal, as well as forcing the Lyrans to be on their guard, and that thought kept Aemelia smiling.
The Collection had struck back hard in the last month, removing the Lyrans from Wiltshire and sending them into the mountains on Halifax. Yet, Halifax was just a distraction during this war, for all she was concerned. Its planetary population was pro-Lyran and restless during its time as a Collection member. The Collection had no problem to allow the Lyrans that world if it had to. Yet it would also defend the world as well, as shown by the continued presence of the Second Raptor Cavalry Cluster and the 4th Rim Lancers’ Alpha Cluster despite incoming Lyran reinforcements.
Wiltshire, however, had proven a boon when Collection authorities had arrested its former ruling baron on corruption charges in its first year and its militia forces had helped to overrun the Lyran DropShips that had landed, shocking both the Lyrans and the Collection. The arrival of the First Raptor Cavalry Cluster to the world had finally ended the last of the Lyran resistance the prisoners, those that did not become bondsmen, could be ransomed back to the Lyrans.
Aemelia knew, no, the entire Collection knew their future was at stake here on Timbuktu though. If they could eject the Lyrans here, it showed once and for all the Collection could and would efficiently defend itself. By doing so, it would finally show to the entire Inner Sphere it was a nation not to be taken lightly. She knew the trio of systems near to Repair Base 77, or Cauldron as the Collection called it, the systems of Pacemah, Beauvais, and Odin Retori, were very interested in joining the Collection, IF the Collection could prove it could defend itself appropriately.
The Collection’s show of martial strength against the Lyrans was already having an effect. Erdvynn, an independent world to the Collection’s south, had announced the reformation of the historic Erdvynn Province with seven other independent worlds all of whom the Lyrans had approached intent on bringing them into the Lyran Commonwealth. Aemelia was unsure if it was a political show of force to gain a better deal when entering the Commonwealth or to reaffirm their independence.
If they were her enemies… She left that to James Nanook and the Rim Congress to decide the “Cold War†with the Stone Spirits was dragging on and while the Lyrans were nice sport for the younger warriors but perhaps it would be better to have a true invasion with an opponent her people could conquer. She was a Warrior and politics was not her battlefield. Her battlefield was war itself and that was what she, her Mandrills, the Raptors, and the Collection's own Warriors were for.
And that was just the political considerations Timbuktu now held to the Collection. If the Lyrans held Timbuktu, it meant the Mandrill Merchants planet side would become hostages, and that she could not allow. Martially, it meant the Lyrans could strike deeper into the Collection. All Dawn; the primary system of her Mandrills and the Raptors, and an important member of the Collection was now very much at risk, being only a jump away from Timbuktu. Same for Gilfillan’s Gold, for capital of the Collection was only two. And those were just the more important systems. That thought made her snarl to herself and balled her right hand into a fist. The Lyrans would be ejected and the future of her Clan and her Collection would be ensured. She promised herself that much.
She came out of her thoughts when she once again experienced a sharp pain in her chest. Clutching her chest for a moment, she was reminded her age. And, she somehow knew, this war would be her last. And, as she watched the planet below, she knew she would finally die the death she once longed for. A death befitting the last true Smoke Jaguar, she thought ferally.
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nice update! James Tanaga that was a great story!
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nice update! James Tanaga that was a great story!
It really has added to the timeline
Graduation, NAIS
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
9th June 3100
With the St Ives Compact’s merging with the Federated Suns further opportunities had been afforded to its citizens in both civilian and military life. Those with enough money and influence were able to send their children to the Federated Suns’ premier academies such as the New Avalon Institute of Sciences. Two young men who had benifited from these changes were Marko and Justin Rubinsky twin sons of Tamas Rubsinsky and Cassandra Rubinsky (nee Allard-Liao) who after studying basic Mech handling had traveled to the NAIS for advanced Mech use and Officer Candidate training. At twenty-two years both men graduated to become Leftenants in the AFFS both are assigned to the First St Ives Lancers RCT’s third Battalion second and third companies. With the entire St Ives Lancers unit hailing from the former Compact worlds the assignment of the twins is warmly welcomed by the unit.
Lyran Reinforcements
Rim Collection, Periphery
11th June 3100
Additional Lyran Commonwealth units arrive in the Rim Collection as Archon Jessica Steiner orders her generals to push back the periphery state after the arrival of Mandrill reinforcements in the Timbuktu system. Archon Jessica Steiner had ordered the Lyrans to retreat from Timbuktu the Rim Collection forces were too entrenched to force them out the LCS Carl Steiner, which had been moving out of the system following its broken K-F Drive, was to be abandoned with a JumpShip entering the system to collect the crew. While the new units arrived on Halifax the ground forces launched a new attack intent on capturing the planet. At the same time Lyran hired mercenary units, the Dismal Disinherited Brigade and the Obsidian Lancers would strike at Issaba and Lost at the Collection’s far border they would have been the Lyran’s “Third Wave†following on from the aborted Second Wave. Intent on making up for at least some the aborted conquest of the Rim Collection the Mercenaries had originally been sent to the region to monitor the Stone Spirits who had been raiding he Lyran's periphery in increasing strength.
With additional units arriving on two flanks the Lyran forces would force the Rim Collection into a cease fire and reclaim some lost territory. Within three weeks Halifax, Issaba and Lost had surrendered to the Lyran Commonwealth and the Rim Collection had agreed to end the fighting much to the dismay of the Fire Mandill and Sphinx Raptor leaders who had believed they could force the Lyrans into capitulation. The Lyrans also formally acknowledged the Endvynn Province following aformal agreement between the Commonwealth and the new nation that Endvynn would not align itself with the Rim Collection and to do so would welcome total war.
After three weeks of discussion the Lyrans and Rim Collection agree to exchange captures soldiers from the worlds exchanged by both sides. Several of the captured Lyrans who were taken as bondsmen remain within the Rim Collection as part of their new "Clan" despite Lyran Commonwealth arguments against their retention.
Twenty-ninth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate, Isle of Skye
14th June 3100
The Twenty-ninth Star League Games takes place on Solaris VII going off without major incident with an unknown MechWarrior Michael Locke from an unknown planet within the former-Free Worlds League winning the competition using an experimental Awesome BattleMech which carries eight separate Light Particle Cannons. The assault Mech’s impressive armour and ammo free armament prove too much for this year’s competitors and a new champion is crowned. Michael Locke immediately joins the Solaris Championship intending on becoming a household name.
Trial of Position
Summit, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
22nd June 3100
Following the death of Loremaster Zenos von Jankmon in a raid by the Lyran Commonwealth Star Colonel Beckett Malthus is supported to the position of Jade Falcon Loremaster by new saKhan Jana Pryde. Previously a virtual unknown within the Jade Falcon Touman the thirty-one year old Beckett Malthus had spent much of fifteen years as a warrior commanding units that supported Watch operations which had stalled his forward progress. Stepping into the limelight defeating several supporters of Ruel Chistu he becomes the new Loremaster of Clan Jade Falcon and effectively the commander of the garrison on Summit.
Terrorist Attack
Bonanza, Altair
Star League Protectorate
29th June 3100
It had started on Altair like it had on several other worlds with a group of unknown Battle Armour suits striking from seemingly nowhere attacking a petrochemical plant outside the city of Bonanza on Altair in the middle of the night. Striking rapidly the suits had attacked the workers and facilities in equal measure causing massive damage and dozens of deaths without reply as they moved through the facility. “Targets moving into range†Captain Rory Winters said peering through his Kobold suit’s magnification system “execute with extreme prejedudice they gave the civilians no chance time to show them what a fight is.†He said beyond his position his entire SAS Company blinked their acknowledgement lights at once sixty-three battle armoured troopers arrayed around the facility waited to strike. Star League Intelligence had pointed to an attack on Altair so all four companies of Battle Armour troopers of their Battalion were spread across the planet ready to react. “Open fire!†He ordered pulling the trigger of his high powered sniper rifle dozens of slugs rung out at once cutting down three troopers instantly “second salvo†Rory ordered sending a second salvo into the suits this time with short range missiles, support machine guns and lasers in support tearing up the terrain around the enemy suits felling another two suits.
Near the petrochemical plant two of the enemy suits who still stood turned and ran straight back into the plant coming across two BattleMechs of the local Guard regiment which had been called in for fire support. Unfortunately neither Guard MechWarrior was ready for this retreat into them and neither unit was able to take out the remaining two suits and both are able to disengage through the burning factory escaping into the darkness of the night. The SAS troopers and BattleMechs moved in on the downed troopers finding all were dead and the only markings on any of the suits was a simple Word of Blake insignia.
Six days later a Mowang-class Small craft was found burnt out in a cornfield fifty kilometres south of the battlesite by Star League Investigators the craft itself a match to that used previously to support attacks within the Protectorate. Unfortunately they find that the craft’s database has been completely wiped and its systems have been completely destroyed leaving nothing that can identify where it had been previously or who had operated it. Two days after the Mowang’s discovery the bodies of the downed Battle Armour troopers are incenerated in a large fire at the facility holding them an SLDF Investigation shows that a member of the SAS, who had trained with the SLDF for eight years and served on several operations, had set the fire before disappearing without a trace showing how far the Word of Blake remnants still reached.
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As I said more coming along
Planetary Assault
Amity, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
8th July 3100
While leading a successful attack on Amity Captain-General Corrine Marik’s daughter Giselle Marik is shot and severely wounded by what is believed to be a Wolf sniper. While the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth troops are able to save her life the only way to ensure she continues to live is place the would be Captain-General in a medically induced coma. With her only other sibling Duke Joseph Marik based on New Avalon still on his Church Mission Duke Leonard Stewart assumes operational control over the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.
Clan Raid
Anjin Muerto
Crucis March, Federated Suns
12th July 3100
In an act that puts the entire Federated Suns on its highest state of alert since the height of the Clan War Clan Nova Cat’s Second Nova Cat Guard Cluster lands on Anjin Muerto. Unlike previous Nova Cat incursions into the Federated Suns this visit has no previous agreement or invitation. The Second Nova Cat Guards commanded by Star Colonel Montgomery Devalis allows the Anjin Crucis March Militia to fully deploy before venturing out from their landing zones. Agreeing with the March Militia commander Marianne Hettering to fight a series of honour duels the Nova Cat unit fights a series of one-on-one, lance vs star, company vs binary and unarmed battles.
In all but two of the battles the Nova Cats are successful winning various natural resources and local luxuries while in both successes the Nova Cat commander gifts the Militia a Pack Hunter BattleMech and a platoon’s worth of Gauss SMGs. Once all the battles are complete the Nova Cat unit withdraws from Federated Suns claimed territory.
Clan Enclave
Clan Territory, Terra Firma
Star League Protectorate
19th July 3100
Gases vented from the Overlord-class DropShip as the main cargo bay doors lowered allowing the Sea Foxes based within the vessel to leave. It had taken them nearly three weeks to complete the deal with the Star League Defence Force which would allow the Sea Fox Clan to enter the Star League Protectorate and to land on Terra Firma. Warrior/trader Peter Hammond walked clear of the DropShip looking around he saw the area that the Hell’s Horses and Wolves had cleared in the forests to build their settlement. Not far away from the settlement laid the wreck of the Halcyon-class Cruiser Pillar of Autumn which Clan engineers and lowercastemen continued to clear of radioactive, explosive and chemical materials after eight years they had made much of the wreck safe stabilizing its position and clearing away waste but there was still much work to be done.
Behind Hammond came several civilian traders of the Sea Fox Clan “this will be our new home the Wolves and Hell’s Horses know we are coming†he said seeing two Hell’s Horses camoflagued SM1 Tank Destroyers hovering nearby. “And the Star League Defence Force believes that we will be a conduct to new treasures of technology our job is to turn it back on them and make this enclave profitable for the Sea Fox.â€
“If they work out we are not simple traders it will make things much more difficult†one of them said.
“And not just with the Star Leaguers†Hammond said as several members of Clan Hell’s Horses approached they were here to help build this enclave into one that would rival those in the heart of Clan claimed territory but they also had an intention to make the most out of the territory for their own Clan.
Public Declaration
Acubens, Star League Protectorate
22nd July 3100
In an immediate and direct response to Duke Leonard Stewart’s seizing of power on Marik the world of Acubens votes “with its feet†and votes to join the Star League Protectorate. For the last six years the planet had only had a planetary militia to protect it but it had continued to follow the Marik family believing that they were best placed to see the rebirth of a united Free Worlds League now with the rise of the Stewart family the planet’s beliefs had been all but broken and that belief was gone. Rumours continue to circulate that both Connaught ad Irian are being linked to the Star League state both worlds feature significant defence manufacturing sites and their loss would threaten the stability of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.
Counter-Strike
Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
27th July 3100
Striking against the Oriente Protectorate the Capellan Confederation recapture Suzano and conqueror Ventabren while also bringing conflict to six other systems the Confederation continue to reshuffle their forces in an attempt to counter the Oriente Protectorate’s raids and the continued threat from the Federated Suns.
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:D Nice update! Clan Nova Cat conducting Trials against AFFC for goodies and Clan Sea Fox planning the long term on Terra Firma.
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Medical Facility
Marik, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
1st August 3100
In the Royal Medical facility on Marik Captain-General Giselle Marik dies from the wounds she sustained on Amity. Officially ruler ship should pass to Joseph Marik but as he is on New Avalon Duke Leonard Stewart is advised by his Generals to accept the position temporarily while a communication block on Giselle’s passing is made beyond the medical facility meaning no information is passed to Joseph Marik.
New Avalon District Ward
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th August 3100
Elder Marik looked at his balled fists in anger his Ward’s Bishop had just informed him that his mother Corrine Marik was dead killed defending her nation on a planet she’d probably never visisted before trying to protect her people. Now his sister Giselle had assumed the mantle of Captain-General and it appeared that she would do the same as their mother lead their troops against their enemies instead of pursuing peace.
“As a result of your personal tragedy we will be cutting your mission short Duke Marik our nation needs you.†His Bishop Artur Dettenger said
“No my nation needs to get over its obsession with war†he said “my sister is next in line to lead and she is her mother’s daughter.†He said in a matter of fact way “I will remain here.â€
“But your family…â€
“Has survived for hundreds of years and will continue to†he said rising from his chair “thank you for providing me with this information I must decline your offer I will remain on New Avalon.†He said nodding slightly the Bishop returned the nod before Joseph left the room rejoining his mission companion.
 
AFFS Assaults
Victoria Commonality
Federated Suns
14th August 3100
After almost a year since their last assaults the Federated Suns launch its next series of assaults on the Capellan Confederation with six WarShips and several ground force Regiments and mercenary units including Clinton’s Cutthroats and the Lexington Combat Group striking at the Capellan Confederation’s Victoria Commonality attacking the garrisons on Pojos, Quirnberton, Vard and Columbine. All four planets fall with minimal resistance as the Federated Suns hits each planet hard intent on breaking Capellan resistance quickly.
Two days after the initial attacks the First Kathil Uhlans RCT, the Fourth St Ives Jannisaries, the Ninth Syrtis Lancers LCT and three WarShips assault the surrounded planet of Victoria. The assault gets off to a bad start with the FSS John Gordon, a Congress Block II-class Frigate, torn to pieces by defence fire from the CCSS Xuzhou, a Wudang Jian-class Frigate, which had been assigned to the system. Duchess Kym Hasek and the other aerospace fighter pilots assigned to the defence of the Federated Suns task force fight a running battle with the Capellan WarShip as it retreats further into the system.
Reaching Victoria four days later the AFFS units rushed onto the planet immediately overwhelming the Lethal Injection Mercenary Regiment. The mercenaries had been ordered by their Capellan Confederation commanders to resist the AFFS immediately on landing. From orbit aerospace fighters from the CCSS Hadji Doru attempted to assist the Capellan and mercenary defenders but the overwhelming numbers of Davion aerospace units and supporting two WarShips proved too much giving the AFFS a beachhead on the planet. In orbit the Hadji Doru and Xuzhou continued to resist the AFFS WarShips and invasion forces.
Trial of Possession
Hangman’s Death, Cogdell
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th August 3100
Unlike their previous raid on Anjin Muerto when the Nova Cats raid the world of Cogdell on the Filtvelt Coalition’s border the extremely pro-Davion militia troops defending the planet immediately assault the Twenty-First Nova Cat Regulars Cluster as they landed in the farming plains south of the capital Hangman’s Death. Having come to expect better from the Federated Suns defenders the Nova Cat unit went into a blind rage destroying all of Cogdell’s defenders before leaving the planet. Unlike their previous raid on Anjin Muerto the Nova Cats take nothing from the planet other than victory.
Briefing Room, LCS Iron Fist (Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser)
Borghese, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
23rd August 3100
“Are they insane?†Archon Jessica Steiner demanded looking at the head of the Lyran Intelligence Command Director Robert Johnson. She had read the document twice already and could barely believe what she read “I am Jessica Steiner my family are the Lyran Commonwealth.†She said looking at the man “they say that they do not act against the Commonwealth I will show them they are wrong. Set up a press conference now!†She snapped knowing fine that there were reporters on the ship as Robert Johnson left the room she began to understand why her father struggled with the politics of her nation. It was all about shadow games and playing nice with the various factions of the nation today the gloves came off.
Fifteen minutes later Archon Jessica Steiner stepped in front of the holo-vid cameras and reporters in the conference room two decks below her demeanor darker now after reading through the LIC documents again her blonde hair was tied back into a ponytail her uniform a simple duty one with none of her service medals not how she normally appeared in public. “Ladies and Gentlemen of the Commonwealth I am Archon Jessica Steiner. Today I have been informed of an assassination plots against me, my husband and my sister by the Brotherhood of Cincinnatus who believe that House Steiner have failed the Lyran Commonwealth. Well as of today the Brotherhood of Cincinnatus is declared an enemy of the Lyran Commonwealth I do this publicly so that if members of the Lyran Commonwealth wish to agree with them then you know where they stand and where I stand.†She said challenging the public of her realm to stand against her it was a risk but worth it. “If you are a member of the Brotherhood or you know someone associated with them know that we are coming for you.†She said without another word stepping away from the stand she moved into the rear room. Seeing Director Robert Johnson who didn’t look happy with events “you think that was a mistake†she said it wasn’t a question.
“Yes mam this will simply put the Brotherhood on edge and make them ready for us coming.†He said which would cost lives.
“No they won’t see this coming†Jessica said “I want your people to do nothing direct continue observations. In fact I want your people to completely avoid actions that will take you into contract with the Brotherhood.â€
“They attempted to assassinate your husband on Tharkad that crash was not an accident.†Johnson said knowing she’d read the report.
“I know I want our people to digest what I just said. The Brotherhood has been with us for more than two hundred years and we’ve watched them, everyone knows we do. I also don’t want any other organisation to think that we watch them with assault forces hanging over ready to drop. We’ve already got Heimdall standing watching out Intelligence Services we don’t need any other copycats.†She said “we’ll let them make the next decision and the next move increase all intelligence over facilities and places in the Commonwealth with links to my family.†She said seeing his eyes widen slightly at the scale of what she had suggested “look at the most promenant places.†She said “should there be an incident at any of then you are to act without restraint to stop them.â€
Public Declaration
Connaught, Star League Protectorate
30th August 3100
Following the declaration of Acubens for the Star League Protectorate the Government of Connaught declares that it has invited SLDF protection following an extended funding problem from Atreus. The leader of Connaught Duchess Julia van der Toorn announces that Duke Leonard Stewart had informed her that there was no additional funding available for residential construction through the state and that she would need to raise corporation and residential taxes to levels that would bankrupt several businesses.
From the Protectorate Government Governor Bannister Cameron announces that the planet will benefit from full Star League funding and several government projects that will improve life on Connaught. While Duke Leonard Stewart secures the Connaught based Kong Interstellar Corporation’s agreement that they will continue to sell their products to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and fulfill their contracts.
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Graduation Ceremony
Sandhurst Academy, England
Terra, Star League Protectorate
7th September 3100
It was the last Graduation Class of 3100 seventy-eight young men and women stood in perfect rows in front of the Sandhurst Academy’s Commandant Harry Lewis as he presided over their graduation. Those who didn’t have family Mechs to use would receive their Mechs in the next couple of days while unit assignments would arrive by the end of the week after that they would be shipped to units based across the Inner Sphere ready to serve the SLDF today however would be their day. Across the assembly yard they were called to attention and then dismissed a roar erupted from the crowd as the cadets celebrated completing Officer Candidate School and the beginning of their career.
Moving through the crowd of celebrating cadets Lt (jg) Morgan Christifori had been grabbed by more people than he could count reaching the building campus entrance he stood and looked back at the crowd he couldn’t help smiling he knew them all he was friends with so many and they had already shared so much together now they would serve together doing something they all wanted. “Well doesn’t someone look happy with himself?†A familiar voice said turning around he saw his mother standing smiling.
“Mom!†He exclaimed grabbing her with his arms “when did you arrive? Is dad here?†He asked quickly glancing around but not seeing his father Archer Christifori.
“No but you aunt and cousins are†Katya Christifori said her son looked disappointed “he’s not well.†Katya admitted now Morgan looked concerned his father had planned to enjoy his retirement he hoped that it wasn’t going to be cut short by health “nothing too serious but Dr Santiago doesn’t want him doing too much†she explained. “You know your dad he wanted to be here and to make sure you remembered today?â€
“How could I forget today?†Morgan said turning looking over the cadets this was the start of the rest of their lives.
“Well there’s one last thing†she said turning heading into the facility leading Morgan down to the Officer’s Mechbay which was used by the trainers, senior officers and visitors to the facility. Morgan had been there once during his initial induction to the Sandhurst Academy Katya’s position as the former head of Star League Intelligence and wife to the former Commanding-General she still had a lot of access to SLDF facilities. Walking along the short line of Mechs they entered the visitors section Katya stopped and Morgan glanced up the Mech standing in front of him was a seventy-five ton Penetrator BattleMech a design intimately familiar to him. He’d seen this Mech hundreds of times over the years he’d even visited it before coming to Terra to begin his SLDF training his connection with it was not what his father had but there was something special about this particular Mech. “She’s yours†Katya said “your father has decided that having that Mech sit in a hanger on Thorin gathering dust would be a waste. She deserves more than that†she said smiling remembering how Archer had described the Mech it was the only woman that she’d ever competed with. “That Mech safeguarded him through the Clan War, Bulldog, Huntress and all the battles since then.†She said remembering hearing about and watching that Mech’s exploits with her husband at its controls Morgan nodded he knew all about that Mech from the Clan lasers Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had ordered salvaged from a Smoke Jaguar BattleMech on Huntress to the upgrades his father had ordered during his time as Commanding-General he was completely familiar with the Mech. “The range is open go get antiquated with it I’ll be with your aunt when you’re done.†She said reaching up she kissed him on the cheek before leaving.
An hour later Morgan stepped the Penetrator out of the Mechbay after calibrating it to his brain waves because it was his father’s Mech Morgan had been in the Mech before and was well aware of its capabilities. Moving towards the Advanced Warfare Range Morgan walked the Penetrator towards the range marker and a computer synthesized voice spoke up “Warning you are entering a restricted live fire zone enter authorization code or reverse your path. Failure to comply will result in the Range Supervisor being informed.†Morgan reached down to the right and typed in a six number pin “Authorization Granted†the voice announced the Penetrator’s sensors lit up with several targets as the range’s live-fire turrets activated.
The range was designed to challenge a MechWarrior and show them what they could face on a line battle the turret weapons were fully powered but their targeting systems were designed to target the limbs and torso of a Mech specifically avoiding a Mech’s head but accidents did happen. Almost immediately his position was targeted by a long range missile battery Morgan sidestepped the Mech several paces as the missiles landed around him several striking the Penetrator’s left torso. “Great start†Morgan cursed triggering the Mech’s jump jets with his right hand Morgan’s father had modified the controls of the Penetrator to allow the jets to be activated by hand instead of the foot pedals. After leaping the Mech one hundred-and-twenty metres he wasn’t convinced he wanted to keep the set up the same controlling the jets this was didn’t feel right. Turning he raised the Mech’s arms pointing the Penetrator’s two Extended-Range Large Lasers at the location of the Long Range Missile turret triggering both lasers within moments one of the red beams washed over the turret immediately shutting it down unlike those on the turrets the Penetrator’s were powered down a successful hit would power them down but not destroy the turret. The heat from firing the lasers washed into the cockpit but Morgan ignored it pushing on as green laser beams filled the air tearing past his Mech. Morgan side stepped to the left and then to the right avoiding weapons fire as he did another turret activated to his right filling the air with autocannon fire a blast slammed into the left torso of his Mech. Twisting the Penetrator’s turret like torso Morgan leveled his Mech’s torso on the target and fired all six of its medium pulse lasers at the turret four struck the target shutting it down. As he reset the Mech’s torso more laser fire lashed out striking the Penetrator’s arm and leg activating the jump jets again Morgan tried to avoid further laser fire. Landing the Mech he decided he was definitely getting rid of the hand controls modification his father had learned how to use the control to a tee but it wasn’t for him. Running the Mech forwards he pushed it beyond sixty kilometres per hour closing on the last turret as its lasers tore into the seventy-five ton Penetrator Morgan fired one of the large lasers in response missing his mark the turret fire again and further lasers flew past the Penetrator two striking its right leg. Morgan retaliated again with his Mech’s pulse lasers shutting down the turret Morgan continued forward passed the turret. “End of Range†the computer voice said “one hundred percent complete, seventy percent accuracy, damage to unit equals thirteen hours to repair.†It said Morgan rolled his eyes slightly thirteen hours of repair meant he had thirteen hours of maintenance work to do before being allowed to return to the range but he was glad to have had a run out in the Mech. Now that he had a BattleMech he could enjoy some time on Terra with his family before officially becoming a member of the Star League Defence Force and joining one of the regiments.
Outbound DropShip McCarron’s Spirit
Helen, Alya Prefecture
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
18th September 3100
In a raid intended on gauging the Draconis Combine’s preparedness in the face of an incursion the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry had assaulted the sleepy world of Helen masquerading as a pirate unit. The unit had found the defences on Helen were more than prepared for an attack and they had been forced back. During the retreat Elizabeth McCarron’s Mech was tagged by Combine artillery fire the blast had torn the back off of the Emperor crushing the Assault Mech’s cockpit and its pilot.
Lying in her bunk on board their retreating DropShip Captain Ariana Steiner slowly massaged her head her Mech and her company had gotten off lightly in the fighting. There was a knock at the door “come in†she called moments later the door slid open revealing Lt Colonel Malcolm Hague “sir†she said surprised rising to her feet.
“Ariana I hope I am not interrupting?â€
“No sir how are you doing?†Malcolm was Elizabeth’s husband as well as XO of the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry.
“Better than I expected†he said raising his hand in it he held a piece of paper “Elizabeth’s will†he said identifying it “as expected she wishes for me to take command of the Regiment.†He said “she has also asked that you become a guardian for Grant.â€
“Me?†Ariana asked shocked Elizabeth McCarron barely trusted Ariana to command the company she had been given.
“Yes†Malcolm said “she respected your skill and your dedication to this command. She knew that I could teach him a lot but that you could teach him how to fight and be a warrior.†He said Malcolm Hague had fought with the Eridani Light Horses before marrying Elizabeth and commanded warriors for more than thirty years it was to his credit that he accepted that his wife wished their son to learn from more than just him.
“Yes sir, I’ll tryâ€
“He has a few years ahead of him Ariana but remember you’re a role model to my son so behave.â€
“Even after death she is molding my life typical.†She said sitting back down on her bunk as Malcolm left she rolled over back onto her back.
Declaration
Amity, Wolf Empire
Former-Free Worlds League
23rd September 3100
Following a successful invasion of Amity Clan Wolf Khan Amina Kerensky announces that the “Call of Dezgra†against all non-Clan enemies and began when the Wolves moved onto Former-Free Worlds League planets has ended. She states that the Wolves will fight honour duels with anyone who wishes to challenge them and they will fight Trials of Possession for territory if the surrounding states do not attempt an all out war. She also warns that should anyone attempt an invasion or a protracted conflict against her Clan then they would face an enemy that they could not prevail against.
Victory Party, Malagrotta Central Square
Malagrotta, Malagrotta Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th September 3100
“Ladies and Gentlemen allow me to introduce Major-General Kirk DeYoung!!†Pirate King Nathaniel Gordon shouted out as the beaten commander of the Malagrotta Combat Region was brought out in front of more than one hundred pirates who had participated in the assault. All around the City Square there were pirates hanging from overrun buildings the civilians who had lived and worked in these buildings dead, captured or having fled from the city. “Now the General here was not ready for our little assault†Gordon continued as DeYoung was pushed from pirate to pirate his uniform torn and bloodied “expecting us to have been afraid of the WarShip assigned to defend this system.†He said turning looking at DeYoung who now lay in the dirt at Gordon’s feet. “But he didn’t know that we knew the WarShip was gone moved to Gillingham to watch over those pesky clanners†Gordon said kneeling down “and he didn’t know that we were fully aware that half your military had been redeployed to watch the Filtvelt Coalition just in case those nasty Clanners come for you. Almost like we had someone on the inside†he said taunting the enemy commander.
“You’ll never hold this planet the resources of the AFFS will be redeployed and you will be crushed†DeYoung said spitting out blood
“Of course they will your vaunted AFFS is more interested in beating the Capellans or worrying about the Nova Cats this little backwater is of little worry to them as long as you pay your taxes.†Gordon sneered “very soon we are leaving this planet and some of your citizens are coming with us.†He said seeing the shock on DeYoung’s face as Gordon hauled the older man to his feet by his chin “but I am afraid you are not coming with us. One last thing†he said leaning in he kissed the broken General’s mouth. As they were locked in the embrace Gordon stabbed DeYoung in the stomach several times allowing the life to drain out of him before tossing the corpse to one side. “WE WILL MAKE THEM FEAR ALL OF US!†He said to the cheering crowd “load the DropShips it’s time to go home.†He said marching through the crowd.
Around the capital of Malagrotta were elements of a dozen different pirate bands while the core was made up of The Strychnine Slavers each band would get what they wanted from this raid slaves, money, salvage they were taking everything they could in the short time they were on the planet. Soon they would fall back into the Pirate Cluster and they would wait for the next opportunity this attack should be proof enough to everyone that the time of Portia Torrent was over and that the Pirate Cluster was back.
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Counter-attack
Victoria, Victoria Commonality
Capellan Confederation
11th October 3100
Additional Capellan Confederation units including the Warrior Houses Kamata and Dai Da Chi and two WarShips are assigned to the defence of Victoria fighting their way through the Federated Suns defence they land on the planet reinforcing defensive units even as the AFFS continues to pound their positions. Despite the arrival of these elite warriors Duchess Kym Hasek remains with the invasion troops intent on showing the Capellans that she will not be a desk leader of the Capellan March.
Terminal One, Command Deck
Nova Cats Den, Periphery
14th October 3100
Constructed in deep space between New Port Royal and and Valois the Nova Cats had finished basic construction of a Dominion Terminal Facility similar to those being constructed by the Rasalhague Dominion. The facility was basic for now with minimal defences and facilities but the Nova Cats planned to expand the station to include extensive defences, cargo handling and civilian quarters. Khan Canin Rosse stood on the station’s command deck with Star Admiral Anders McKenna “an impressive facility quiaff?â€
“Aff even if it is a waste of resources.†McKenna said “we could have spent the resources on new WarShips, JumpShips or smaller stations all that could have helped us more than this single place.â€
“Perhaps but Terminal One is large enough to house an assault force for months and provide them with a staging area allowing us to stockpile resources.†The problem the Nova Cats had found in this region was that there was a severe lack of planets and moons that were viable to colonize most of the planets they had found were unstable gas giants or planets far too close to their suns which was why they’d turned to building Terminals. Now the Nova Cats were constructing six such structures between the core worlds of the Nova Cat’s Den and their new territories closer to the Federated Suns and Filtvelt Coalition.
“Aff but it is a target†McKenna began “at least a ship can move.â€
“A planet is a target as well†Canin reminded the old Star Admiral “the advantage this facility has is our enemies have to find this place no-one has permanently settled this system before.†He said leaving out the idea that traffic may use it as a shortcut to get somewhere else if so that practice would have now ended.
“So we consider the Federated Suns and Filtvelt our enemies?†McKenna asked carefully he’d heard that the Khan’s ‘partner’ had been upset at recent adventurism by Nova Cat units against the Federated Suns.
“Neg but they should expect us to Trial against them we are Clan.â€
“They do not understand our ways†McKenna pointed out “after all these years we have tried to educate them and yet now they call our attacks a betrayal.†He snarled angrily the Federated Suns response to the recent trials had been to launch attacks on Brockton, Sherwood and Ebro. All three had been driven back by Nova Cat ground and naval forces but it was a clear show that they did not understand the Nova Cats.
“They failed in their trials†Canin said “and should they continue to try and provoke a response they will get one.â€
“So you won’t stop our warriors?†He asked surprised that the Khan would allow is commanders to follow this path he’d always been a Warden believing that the Inner Sphere deserved the Clan’s protection.
“Neg, I will not command the Nova Cats forever the Federated Suns needs to know that our policies change and that our people are not to be ignored.â€
“It hasn’t helped your opponents that you have authorized these attacks either†McKenna noted.
“I hadn’t noticed†Canin Rosse joked looking at his friend “now let’s have a look around.†He said heading for an exit. Soon this facility would be fully operational and the Nova Cats would have a new base of operations right on the border of the Filtvelt Coalition.
Public Declaration
Asta, Star League Protectorate
28th October 3100
Following the declarations of Acubens and Connaught for the Star League Protectorate the world of Asta in the Draconis Combine’s Military District of Dieron declares for the Star League Protectorate. The agricultural world cites that over the last several months the world has suffered from an increasing amount of pirate attacks but due to its lack of heavy, military, industry its call for increased defences had fallen on deaf ears on Dieron. The leader of Asta, Governor Anfernee van Lark, states that his people deserve a permanent defence force something that the SLDF are willing to provide but that the Draconis Combine is unable.
Rumours circulate that the SLDF diplomats have approached the leaders of Dieron however the Warlord of Dieron Duke Akira Tormark rubbishes these claims stating that Dieron and all of its district worlds are under the protection of the Dragon now and forever. He states that Asta, Yorii, Altair and Fomalhaut (all of the Draconis Combine worlds to join the Star League Protectorate) will all return to the Dragon’s banner in time and they will be welcomed by House Kurita.
Street Walk
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
29th October 3100
There was not much interest from the people of New Avalon in the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints but Elder Joseph Marik and his partner would continue to try and bring the word of God to the people. One young man approached him he had dark hair and was perhaps twenty years old “May I speak to you?†Joseph asked
“Of course sire†the man said respectfully Joseph immediately knew that he’d been recognized.
“I am not that today I am a simple Elder intent on spreading the word…â€
“Sire, I know who you are†the man said interrupting “I was sent to see you, to pass a message to you one that could not be entrusted to an HPG message.†He said
“I am aware of my mother’s death†Joseph said calmly “I am not involved in the leadership of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.â€
“I am aware sire†the man said exasperated with Joseph’s calm reply “but neither is your family…â€
“My sister…â€
“Sire, I am sorry to tell you that your sister Duchess Giselle Marik is dead†he said breaking the news as lightly as one could on a New Avalon street “she died from wounds sustained fighting against our nation’s enemies. Duke Leonard Stewart has seized control over our nation he has taken your families place.†He warned
“I understand thank you†he said “peace be with you†Joseph said walking off with his stunned companion for now he’d continue along this path.
Hours later Elder Joseph Marik and his companion were still walking the streets of New Avalon trying to pass their message when they encountered three men. The men were dressed in clean clothes and approached the two men from different directions “gentlemen, can we help?†Joseph’s companion asked stepping towards one of the men. The first blow came quickly a piece of metal flashed in the light catching the man across the side of the head knocking him to the ground. Joseph reacted from instinct and training immediately flashing forward he struck the attacker on the face with a closed fist as he recoiled Joseph grabbed for the hand holding the metal wrestling it from his grasp. Now armed with the piece of pipe Joseph moved faster than the three men he stood against first striking the attacker again, this time with the pipe knocking him to the ground, he spun quickly striking the next attacker in the ribs he heard ribs shatter as the pipe struck them the man doubling over in pain. A rapid strike with his left fist knocked him to the ground once down Joseph followed up with another strike against the man striking his head instantly knocking him out. This left it at one against one with the final attacker Joseph didn’t wait for him to react to his fallen companions instead threw the piece of pipe he had been holding turning it into a projectile it flew like a spear striking the last attacker in the chest the pipe went straight through his chest there was a spray of blood as the man fell to the ground dead. Joseph looked down at the man and sunk to his knees as his companion rolled over looking at Joseph “what happened are they dead?â€
“One of them is†Joseph whispered “the others are unconscious they’ll live†Joseph said
“We have to tell the authoritiesâ€
“They probably already know†Joseph said thinking that his SAFE bodyguards hadn’t shown up yet likely following his orders and maintaining their distance after seeing he could look after himself. They would however have informed the local emergency services just in case he needed medical attention. Soon after Elder Joseph Marik was arrested by the Avalon City Police Department and was charged with manslaughter. Due to his diplomatic, and family, ties Joseph was released to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Embassy over the course of three days there were several attacks against members of the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints and against citizens of the former-Free Worlds League resulting in Joseph being forced to leave New Avalon by local authorities and diplomatic pressure from the Federated Suns. Leaving in disgrace Elder Joseph Marik begins his journey back to the world of Marik.
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Skirmish
York, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
9th November 3100
Hauptmann Lina Arndt commander of the Ninth Lyran Regulars Regiment turned her Bandersnatch towards the Brotherhood BattleMech. Her company had been assigned to assisting Intelligence teams that had been watching a Brotherhood of Cincinatus when the Brotherhood had suddenly struck at them with an entire BattleMech lance which had smashed its way clear of the warehouse they were hidden in. Lina knew that the six members of the Intelligence team were dead by just looking at the building they had been in which burned uncontrollably. Leveling her Mech’s arms at the enemy Rifleman Lina hit the primary triggers firing both of her Mech’s autocannons into the target both BattleMech sized shotgun blasts cut over the Rifleman’s left shoulder shredding the actuator there. Immediately Lina opened fire with the arm mounted medium lasers burning away yet more armour. The four Brotherhood Mechs were hopelessly outnumbered but they did not lack skill despite losing an entire arm the Rifleman turned firing its remaining laser and autocannon at Lina’s heavier Mech. Cutting to the right Lina opened fire with another barrage of autocannon fire destroying more armour off the back and torso of her enemy she saw a small internal failure on the enemy Mech the Rifleman continued to move and fire as it turned and fired again the autocannon missing Lina’s Mech but the laser burning over the left leg.
Across from Lina’s Mech Regulars Stealth BattleMech was finishing off a Brotherhood Stinger BattleMech Lina was sure that today her unit would be victorious but how many more battles would they fight before the enemy in their midst was gone. Turning her Mech again Lina trigger both autoocannons again striking the enemy Mech’s torso these shots penetrated the torso armour smashing the gyroscope as the Rifleman began to fall the pilot triggered his ejection seat escaping the falling Mech. “Hauptmann Arndt to recovery team we got one seat heading due east†she called out with luck the VTOL based recovery team could capture the warrior before they escaped into York’s undergrowth. Glancing around she saw the other two Mechs had also fallen “Mech units are down ground teams move in secure their armour and anyone that’s still inside.â€
The infantry and Battle Armour ground troops rushed into the facility but they found the facility completely abandoned all the computer equipment destroyed and the four armoured vehicles missing. York was a planet of more than a billion souls with a busy spaceport and several auxiliary fields making it nearly impossible to track them down if they wished to head out of the system adding to the difficulty of tracing down the Brotherhood of Cincinatus.
Royal Birth, Regulan Hospital facility
Regulus, Principality of Regulus
Former-Free Worlds League
12th November 3100
Under heavy security Prince Lester Cameron-Jones third child Rene Cameron-Jones is born. With a family, a loyal army and secure borders with all of their neighbours Lester Cameron-Jones can concentrate on building up the facilities within his realm and improving his people’s lives.
With the unstable leadership across the border in the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth the Principality benefits from vastly increase immigration figures in every border system. While the government of Regulus is involved in tentative talks with some of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth worlds the Principality are nowhere near ready to welcome any of the worlds into their borders.
Trial of Possession, Sacred Rite (Nightlord II-class Battleship)
Quatre Belle, Raven Alliance
Periphery
16th November 3100
The battle damaged Nightlord II-class Battleship Sacred Rite moved through the extensive shipyards of the Quatre Belle system hours before the Sacred Rite had fought a battle against the Snow Raven WarShip Snow Raven, another Nightlord II, the two vessels had traded blows for hours until the Snow Raven had lost its main propulsion unit unable to maneuver the Ravens had surrendered the Trial of Possession. There was no intent from either Clan to destroy the others WarShip these vessels simply cost too much to be wasted in a Trial of any kind instead they had decided that the first ship to lose a critical system propulsion, main power, command and control or life support would lose the battle. Although the Sacred Rite had lost several weapon systems and had extensive armour damage its core systems remained intact bringing victory both ships would fight again in different battles perhaps against each other perhaps against another target of their Clan it was the Clan way.
Now the Sacred Rite moved closer to the shipyards to collect the Nova Cat prize a newly completed Swiftsure-class Cruiser during the battle Nova Cat Star Admiral Anders McKenna had been killed. In honour of the long serving Star Admiral the newly captured WarShip would be named for him while Nova Cat warriors would travel to the McKenna Bloodrite Contest in Snow Raven territory to ensure that the Bloodname remained within their Clan further honouring the fallen warrior. It was how Clan society was supposed to work warriors effectively living forever with their genes passing into the gene programs and future warriors being born into the Clan. Anders McKenna has served the Nova Cat Clan for more than thirty years already he would be remembered in the Clan’s Remembrance now a WarShip would bare his name and in the future warriors would carry his bloodhouse to new heights in the Nova Cat Clan.
Salvage Mission, RCS Providence (Fox Block III-class Yardship)
Deep system, Timbuktu
Rim Collection
23rd November 3100
“Commodore this prize is worth it but it is like searching for a needle in a haystack†Naval Director Eric Gruber said glancing over at the Fire Mandrill naval officer.
“Space is large†the Fire Mandrill said quietly ignoring Gruber’s comment. He was a politician and owner of a leading construction firm in the Rim Collection and he wanted this prize possibly more than the naval officers of the Rim Collection did. Their prize was the LCS Carl Steiner, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, a vessel that the Lyran Commonwealth had abandoned following the failed invasion of Timbuktu. At the last sighting of the vessel the hull was intact as were its engines but the vessel had suffered extensive system, weapon and K-F Core damage. Long range tracking radar facilities on Timbuktu had seen a JumpShip enter the system and remove the crew from the Carl Steiner.
“Yes it is†Gruber said “but if we were to salvage this WarShip then it would be a significant asset.â€
“Or an albatross around our neck the vessel was crippled by our naval forces†the Fire Mandrill officer said confidently “the Lyrans abandoned it not because it couldn’t defend itself but because of the jump core damage which can take years to repair. They could have easily destroyed the vessel but instead most likely they have left booby-traps on board the craft which will injure and kill our crew.â€
“I am confident Commodore that your people are good enough to avoid such traps and to recover our prize.†He said the Fire Mandrill officer was angry that the man didn’t care for the warriors and techs would be boarding the Carl Steiner instead all he wanted was the ship to study, rebuild and profit from.
“We need to find the ship first†it had been three long weeks of searching so far and nothing could be seen “it is almost like the ship has disappeared.â€
“Impossible†Gruber said “we would have found wreckage if they had destroyed the vessel we would have detected the drive plume if the crew had burned off the remaining fuel.†He said pointing it out
“Then you explain it Commodore…â€
“It is Star Commodore†the Fire Mandrill officer snapped back angrily correcting the man.
“Regardless†Gruber said the Clansmen’s anger “you are a naval officer you explain why we cannot find any sign of this WarShip?â€
“It no longer remains in this system.†He answered after a moment’s hesitation
“Impossible†Gruber repeated in his arrogance “you said yourself that the KF Core had been damaged beyond repair by our vaunted naval forces.â€
“Not impossible†the Mandrill corrected “this WarShip is a repair vessel with a dock capable of surrounding another craft and repairing damaged systems.â€
“You cannot replace a KF Core in the time between the Carl Steiner’s abandonment and now†Gruber said angrily “explain?â€
“There are types of repair ship that have a reinforced repair bay which would allow them to jump with the Carl Steiner inside.â€
“Who fields a ship with that capability?†Gruber demanded knowing that House Steiner had no such asset.
“I do not know the Clans fielded few such craft before…†he began before stopping thinking of the past when his Mandrills had been part of the core Clan society. “There were few extended campaigns we did not need such craft on a regular basis and there were many shipyards.†He said proudly “now I would be surprised if any survive. The only others who could have such a craft would be the Star League Defence Force†he suggested “but we have not seen such capabilities from them either.â€
“Someone old hidden away from prying eyes? Or something new?†Gruber suggested the Fire Mandrill officer did not reply instead they continued their search. After another three weeks the search was called off with no sign of the Carl Steiner being found in the Timbuktu system or the surrounding interstellar space.
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nice update! quiet times in the FWL-LC area and disappearing warships again? Hmm... I wonder how far in the years will we see the former LCS Carl Stiener? More updates when you can!
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nice update! quiet times in the FWL-LC area and disappearing warships again? Hmm... I wonder how far in the years will we see the former LCS Carl Stiener? More updates when you can!
It might be a while before you see that particular Hyperion...
It's time to end 3100 - I'll post an up to date WarShip list and new Map tomorrow hopefully. As always any questions or comments feel free to make or to send in a PM
AFFS Withdrawal
New Vandenberg, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
2nd December 3100
As the last Excalibur-class DropShip raised up from the surface of New Vandenberg Colonel Carol Trenouth smiled her Concordat Jaegers Regiment had finally driven the Federated Suns off of her home planet New Vandenberg was a Taurian world once more. Her regiment and two others had been battered during the year long conflict for control over the system and much of the planet’s industrial and training complexes had been damaged. Already Carol knew that there were plans to not only repair these facilities but expand them along with the addition of orbital defences and expanded aerospace fighter bases. These upgrades would likely take the better part of decades and it had all started today with their victory over the AFFS.
In the end they had come up against the Twelth Deneb Light Cavalry LCT and the Eighth Syrtis Fusiliers LCT with both units holding up her forces well bogging them down with large numbers of vehicles and Battle Armour closely packed. Her senior officers had planned several deep strikes at the rear areas of the AFFS units intending on striking down their supply chain. When her assault units had struck they had found that the AFFS supply vehicles were missing the supply base all but abandoned. The next day the Deneb Light Cavalry had struck at the Taurian’s supply lines forcing the Jaegers to retreat and when they had done so the AFFS units had disappeared disengaging completely. Believing that the attackers wanted some sort of respite from battle Carol Tenrouth had turned her under supplied troops around and struck at the retreating AFFS units and it appeared that they had finally broken the invaders as they continued their retreat all the way to their DropShips.
In preparation for the final assault her people had rested over night three kilometres from the AFFS landing zone. In the morning her troops had awoken the the rumble of DropShip engines stepping out of her tent Carol had looked into the air watching the leaving DropShips one after the other. The Taurian scouts had soon reported that finally the last DropShip, the now leaving Excalibur, was boosting off of the surface finally New Vandenberg was free the rebuilding could begin.
Road of Shame
Pirate’s Haven, Pirate Cluster
Periphery
17th December 3100
“They tried to invade our world!†King Nathaniel Gordon said angrily it had hardly been an invasion twenty-four Battle Armour equipped troopers of the Federated Suns Rabid Fox Command. Somehow the Federated Suns had located their haven in the cluster but the pirates had been ready. Prepared for any type invasion on their soil as soon as the Rabid Foxes were discovered every pirate under Nathaniel Gordon’s command had moved. Hopelessly outgunned at least twenty of the troopers had been killed or disabled and now the survivors were at the mercy of the pirates of the Cluster “we were ready for them!†Gordon screamed as the gates opened the nine surviving men and women were herded by the pirates down a narrow path each had their hands bound and they were tied to the trooper in front of them all around the path were the baying crowd of the Pirate’s cluster. This world had originally been designed as a hidden base for the pirates but over the years it had grown to form a small community who lived and died under pirate rule. Now the people had their entertainment as the surviving Rabid Fox troopers were pushed down the street they were pelted by thrown food, thrown human waste and stones. Several of the troopers were knocked to the ground halling their companions down into the muck with them as they went but each time they stubbornly got back up continuing their march. Nathaniel’s advisors had said he should keep a couple alive to interrogate but this was not the moment for such matters instead the troopers were led to a row of hanging ropes. As they approached the troopers realized what was happening to them this was not a walk of humiliation but their execution several attempted to break their bonds and escape but each time they did a pirate stepped in and smashed them with the butt of their rifle knocking the trooper to the ground. “Our Succession Lords need to understand that if they come to our world they pay the price.†Gordon said as the nooses were wrapped around the necks of the captives. “You should have never come to my world†Gordon said raising his arm once the last rope had been tied. As one the nine captives were raised by their necks on the ropes and began to choke to death.
A kilometre away the four remaining Rabid Fox troopers watched through their Magshot Gauss Rifle scopes. The remaining squad leader watched as his comrades were lifted to their deaths “triple salvo and then we break to Alternate Post Zulu†he ordered there were three winks of status lights as the other troopers acknowledged his command. “Fire†he finally said immediately the troopers fired three rapid salvos from their weapons each salvo was aimed intentionally the first was aimed at the first four troopers, the second at the third line of four while the fourth hit the last trooper, two of Nathaniel Gordon’s advisers and Gordon himself. The Rabid Fox team had no chance of releasing their captives but nor would they leave them to die by hanging instead a quick death as the gauss shots tore through them. The last salvo targeted on Gordon killed both of his advisers instantly but at the last moment the King moved slightly knocking the shot off instead of impacting with the man’s head the shot tore through his left elbow severing the arm completely as the kinetic force tore through his body.
Not waiting to see the results of their fire the remaining squad broke position immediately disappearing into the wastes of this planet. They still had a mission to complete and they would do everything in their power to ensure it was completed by the time allotted to them. In the pirate camp chaos ensued as the pirates scrambled to find the attackers, to check on their captives and to tend to their now wounded King.
Alternate Post Zulu
Pirate’s Haven, Pirate’s Cluster
Periphery
19th December 3100
After two days of hard travel the four remaining Rabid Fox troopers finally arrived at Alternate Point Zulu. Approaching pair of connected shipping containers the squad leader Leftenant Christopher Grant pushed a small veil into the control panel the door slid open allowing the four Infiltrator III suits to enter. As the entered lighting inside automatically activated Christopher Grant moved forward half way along the container docking his suit with one of the power points the other three suits docked with the remaining power points as they did the container doors closed behind them sealing the container fans inside quickly scrubbed the atmosphere clearing the way for the four troopers to breath unassisted.
“Well this is a FUBAR situation†Trooper McKenna Wilde said stepping out of her suit “El-Tee what the hell are we supposed to do now?†She asked crossing the container stretching out on one of the bunks.
“We can still complete the mission.†Christopher said moving across to the bank of computer screens entering a code.
“We can still complete the mission? Who the hell are you trying to kid?†Trooper George Hewlett said stepping over to his bunk “we came here with twenty-four men and women two elite teams of Rabid Fox troopers and we just killed our last allies on this rock.†He said angrily
“Our mission was to flatten that Brigand factory†Christopher Grant said “we can still do that†he said looking at the other three “we survived the pirate ambush because we are the best the fact we were able to engage Gordon and evade without return and we are now in a facility that the pirates won’t be able to find unless they walk into it.†He said the containers were lined with stealth materials and had a low power outage making them nearly completely undetectable. There was enough food to last a squad for months and plenty of ammunition for their suits and for small arms.
“We’re completely outnumbered and the CO is dead we’re screwed.†George replied
“Not quite†Christopher said triumphantly as the computers booted up “gather around†he said calling the other three closer “anyone that made it to one of these facilities is given access to Plan Epsilon.â€
“Plan Epsilon?†McKenna asked
“Yes†Christopher said “the plan is to strike at the factory then we break off and rendezvous at Post Omega.†He said highlighting a position on the map “from there we can hold out until our pick up arrives.â€
“If it arrives†George said “getting into the Cluster has never been easy.†He said shrugging.
“Have some confidence they will come†Christopher said “we’ve done the impossible here people surviving that ambush and making it here. We’ve got a little bit further to go then we’re heading home†he said confidently “now get some sleep.†He finally ordered dismissing his three squad-mates this was not home but it was somewhere safe and safe is what they needed right now.
Trial of Possession
Morven, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
22nd December 3100
A Trial of Possession like those the Nova Cats had launched over the last several months however what would become known as the Battle of Morven had just begun. Landing during the middle of the night the Fourth Nova Cat Guards had intended on fighting a limited Trial of Possession having challenged the Fourth Filtvelt Guardians during their burn towards the planet.
As the Nova Cat’s landed flares lit up the sky followed rapidly by artillery and long range missile fire from the defenders who targeted the Nova Cat DropShips before they had even landed with a Union C-class vessel making a crash landing killing an entire Trinary of warriors as the ship’s lower decks were crushed on impact. Incensed by this attack and waste of life the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster launched their attack on the defenders as soon as they had landed.
Without any preparation the Nova Cat’s three remaining trinaries attacked their enemy individually allowing the Filtvelt forces to cause heavy damage to the unit over the next twenty-four hours however the Nova Cat Guards were an elite formation and were part of the Nova Cat’s Delta Galaxy which had a reputation for having only the best warriors and equipment assigned to it. By the dawn the second day the remaining Nova Cats, who still numbered three trinaries, had been able to regroup and began to push against the Filtvelt defenders. With no intention on giving the periphery unit a second chance at an honourable battle the remaining Fourth Nova Cat Guards walked methodically through each of the remaining Filtvelt Guardians units brutally executing downed warriors. By the beginning of the third day the Nova Cats had completely overrun the last of Morven’s defenders completing the conquest of the planet and ending the battle.
As a reminder of the Guardian’s failure to defend Morven the Nova Cats placed the planet’s occupied population under a twenty-four hour curfew during which they collected every piece of broken Guardian BattleMech or armoured vehicle dumping them in a heap in the centre of the planetary capital. The new Clan warlords of Morven then passed a message to all members of the population that they must attend and see the mass of metal before continuing on the next day as a physical message to every man, women and child that should they resist the Nova Cats they will pay the price. Beyond that the Nova Cats allow the planet to continue as normal the only real changes being that instead of Filtvelt units that were rotating through the planet and guarding the streets they were now Nova Cat ones. And Nova Cat Merchants regulating all trades on the planet because the Nova Cats already controlled several nearby star systems and had a stronger merchant fleet than the Filtvelt Coalition within the first six months of Nova Cat rule three years worth of travelers had passed through Morven bringing new opportunities to the people. As a permanent reminder to the population and to any visitors the remains of the Fourth Filtvelt Guardians Regiment was left in the central square of Morven City a constant reminder of what happens when the Clan is resisted.
Terrorist Attack
Cate’s Hold, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
27th December 3100
During a pirate raid the Canopian Highlanders Regiment are effectively wiped out to the man as a thermo-nuclear bomb is detonated near their operation’s base on Cate’s Hold. Nearly one thousand civilians are killed by the blast while the raiders take dozens of slaves from the population. Following the attack the Canopian’s Ebon Magistrate Special Forces command is deployed to track down and eliminate these pirate/terrorist forces.
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nice update! So looks like VSD's plan for the TC is to convince them to rebuild and expand their defenses, instead of going on the offense. Wonder if the Rabid Foxes will be saved or not? Wonder if Filtvelt Coolition forces bothered reading how to approach Clan Batchals? More please
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3101
Launching Ceremony
Titan Shipyards, Observation Deck
Terra system, Star League Protectorate
7th January 3101
Launching ceremonies were grand affairs this one especially so. Twenty minutes before Governor of Thorin, and former Commanding-General, Archer Christifori had spoken quite eloquently about the drive that his friend Commanding-Admiral David Natale had to resurrect the Enterprise-class Super-carrier and that he had not a second thought about authorizing work on a second version of the class despite the original’s clear failure.
“Two men made that ship happen†Commanding-General Victor Focht said quietly “one of them is dead and by looking at him the other one isn’t far from seeing the ground up close one last time.†He continued David Natale had been assassinated by a bomb on board the SLS Shining Claw while the other man Archer Christifori had defied doctor’s orders to travel here today. Focht had heard that the old General had listened to doctors and stayed away for his own son’s graduation but had come all this way for a ship “ridiculous†he said turning his drink glass slowly looking into it
“I wouldn’t call it that the SLS Enterprise will be a significant asset to SLDF fleet operations as will her sister ship.â€
“Which due to cost might take ten years to build†Focht said angrily “we could have had four destroyers for the same cost or an entire Brigade of ground troops fully outfitted and trained†he said thinking of the possibilities.
“You have the authority to ramp up production on the second ship or cancel it.â€
“Neither does me any good Admiral Fitzgerald and you know it†Focht said glancing up from his drink at the man.
“If I cancel it I am the bad guy the ship will be named for David Natale, Archer Christifori made sure of that before he retired, you naval pukes will be angry that I’m ‘cutting your resources’ while the bean counters will see it as an opportunity to cut SLDF funding since we obviously didn’t need it.†He said frustrated “and if I push through its production not only will she launch with not enough pilots for her fighter wings but it will mean I need to cut money going to other areas that need it a lot more.â€
“Damn†Anthony Fitzgerald said without a hint of sympathy “at least your not stuck looking at that ugly buggering thing.†The Admiral commented chuckling to himself the Enterprise-class had been designed to break the mold on SLDF design she was far more striking than many other designs and looked every bit as lethal as she actually was. Fitzgerald himself was not a massive fan of the vessel’s outward appearance but he was very glad for the two men’s actions that Victor Focht currently cursed.
“Small mercies†Focht commented draining his glass “good luck with your new ship Admiral, good day†he said without another word or salute leaving the Head of the Navy to his drink. Focht needed to get ground side maybe take out a Mech and blow something up or start a war with someone it would make him feel far better than he did right now.
Reinforcements
Victoria, Victoria Commonality
Capellan Confederation
11th January 3101
Following months of conflict on Victoria the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns move to end the battle with the arrival of the FSS Black Prince, the recently repaired and refitted FSS Pegasus and four additional regiments of AFFS ground forces and three additional mercenary commands. While ground forces charge towards the planet the two Battleships move past their comrades who had been contesting the space around Victoria with the Capellan defenders.
On the ground the additional ground forces hit the ground running charging at the now grossly outnumbered Capellan defenders. Warrior Houses Kamata and Da Da Chi are completely destroyed in battle as is the Phyr’s Hussars Regiment and the Sixth Liao Lancers Regiment while a Wing of the Hell’s Black Aces are also eliminated. Of the AFFS assault forces the First Kittery Borderers RCT is almost completely destroyed while four regiments of the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry RCT are also destroyed and the First Kathil Uhlans are left severely under strength with Colonel Richard Steiner injured in a BattleMech fall. Following the battle the Twentieth Kittery Armoured Regiment would be merged with the under strength Armoured Cavalry to prop up the command. Of the mercenary units called to assist the Medusans lose four assault DropShips, while Clinton’s Cutthroats lose a Battalion of units, the Wild Geese are heavily damaged and the Vanguard Legion are completely destroyed.
In orbit the two newly arrived Battleships go on the offensive supporting Kym Hasek’s Federated Suns Naval forces that were already in the system. The increased number of aerospace fighters and assault DropShips brought in by the two WarShips and their presence alone quickly overwhelmed and destroyed the CCSS Haji Doru the Feng Huang II-class Cruiser unable to withstand the continuous bombardment from the two Battleships. The other Capellan WarShip assigned to the system, the CCSS Xuzhou, attempted to avoid the main battle flanking the Federated Suns WarShips causing minor damage at long range. When it became apparent the Haji Doru was lost and the ground battle was moving against the Capellans the commander of the Xuzhou enacted the Capellan’s “scorched policy†with the bird shaped Xuzhou his instrument. The Wudang Jian-class vessel turned its weapons on the Victoria shipyards burning down the facilities even as Federated Suns Naval units tore into the seven hundred and thirty thousand ton vessel. Like an avenging phoenix the Xuzhou completed its kamikaze run impacting with the core facilities of the shipyards eliminating what was left of the once great facilities.
This naval battle ended what was left of the fighting in the Victoria system with it firmly held by the Federated Suns. Duchess Kym Hasek having survived months of fighting against the Capellans both in space and in Victoria’s atmosphere personally accepted the surrender of the planet to the Federated Suns by its civilian leadership. In the Capellan Confederation Andurien is made the capital of both its own Commonality and what remains of the Victoria Commonality.
Scout Mission
Pirate’s Haven, Pirate’s Cluster
Periphery
14th January 3101
The Pirate’s Haven that the Rabid Fox were now stranded on was a hell hole the atmosphere was toxic and subject to frequent radiation storms no human who wished to live a long life. The Rabid Fox had scouted several targets without any luck so far. “Sierra One to India team we’re in position.†Christopher Grant said peering down his scope looking at the facility. Because the Pirate’s Haven had a toxic atmosphere anyone not wearing armour had to wear full facial respirators allowing two members of the team to move through the settlement unmolested but where they were at the moment was heavily guarded and restricted to people the pirates knew by sight only the skill of McKenna Wilde and Sylvester Keeler had gotten them to where they were.
“India One we have good eyes observing now†McKenna replied she was sitting at the corner of the external stairwell of the building keeping watch while Syvester Keeler got the information they needed.
“Sierra Two, India One, you have two incoming.â€
“Understood, we’re almost done, is our ex-fill path clear?†She asked keeping an eye out for guards meant she couldn’t keep an eye on everything.
“Affirmative you are clear†George Hewlett said from his observation point he could see their escape vehicle.
“Guards thirty paces and closing†Christopher said “twenty-five†he said watching them move closer.
“We’re done Chris the data’s confirmed it’s here†McKenna reported
“Shift your ass then†he replied
“Keep your eyes off my ass and and my surroundings please.†She said both of them were already moving towards their exit vehicle but the guards were closer “shit we’re blown!†McKenna called out ducking down turning firing her sub-machine gun. “Sylvester shift it I’ll cover.†She called out Sylvester was already moving down the steps as McKenna emptied the clip.
“Both of you shift!†Christopher barked “we’ll cover George let it rip!†He ordered both of them fired their Magshots taking down two of the enemies. Suddenly alarms throughout the facility sounded as the pirates were made aware of what was happening. Both Sylvester and McKenna half jumped off the stairs running to their vehicle.
“We’ve got eyes on you†George said as the vehicle began to move “Sierra One we’ve got a blue hover utility looks like Filtvelt manufacture.â€
“Got you†Christopher replied as McKenna Wilde punched the accelerator moving the vehicle towards the bases gates moments later behind them were three other hover trucks firing at the Rabid Fox vehicle. “Still got you†Christopher said snapping off a shot striking the front of one of the pirate vehicles “damn it missed the engine block†he cursed firing again this time hitting the mark knocking out the vehicle’s power plant.
“Nice shooting bossâ€
“Thanks Chris†McKenna said seeing one of the vehicles splutter to a stop “we’re heading towards Point Gamma we’ll lead them away and circle around.†She said above them the sky suddenly erupted with energy as lighting struck out striking the ground near them.
“SERIOUSLY!†Christopher shouted looking up “guys we need to get the out of this storm. George what do you think?†He asked George knew more about the planet’s weather than any of them.
“Our armour will protect us for eight to ten hours†he replied taking a shot at the second vehicle missing the target. Christopher switched frequencies to a private one shared between him and George.
“How long will McKenna and Sylvester last?†He asked as the sky lit up with further electric discharges.
“An hour at the most depending on how bad the storm gets our armour is designed to protect someone in the void of space human skin isn’t.†George replied taking another shot this time striking one of the vehicles the bullet went straight through the vehicle’s door and into the pirate behind it killing them. “She’ll be fine†he said they all knew that Christopher and McKenna were involved before it hadn’t been a problem since they had been in different teams now was different.
McKenna and Sylvester’s vehicle was moving quickly with Sylvester having emptied his weapon and in the process of emptying McKenna’s. Bullets from the pursuing vehicles were peppering their utility vehicle “this could be going better.†McKenna said but there wasn’t a reply “Sylvester!†She barked glancing over her shoulder her teammate was laying in the rear cab a growing puddle of blood below him. “Sierra One I’ve lost India Two he’s KIA.†She reported
“Understood†Christopher said glancing up as more cracks of lighting shot through the sky “abandon Gamma come right to us.â€
“Are you crazy? Your armour can only take so much and if we can’t take them we’ll be in a running battle again. I don’t have my armour†McKenna said her voice slightly panicked as further pirate small arms fire tore into her vehicle.
“Do it, we’ll be ready George set up a surprise.â€
“We’ve only got limited supplies boss†George started.
“If need be we’ll break into another cache we can’t do this job with just two of us.â€
“We’ll be lucky to do it with three†George muttered Christopher was almost ready to snap at him but noticed the other trooper had already moved Christopher sighted the enemy vehicles taking another shot his shot going wide. As McKenna turned her vehicle towards them Christopher took another shot this time taking down one of the pirates. “Ok we’re up approach Bravo McKenna you understand me?â€
“Yeah I’ve got it†she replied ducking as more bullets tore through her vehicle. The Rabid Fox trained how to approach a position of allies or enemies in various different ways a single code word indicated to a trooper how to approach any situation. Christopher remained higher than George taking the occasional shot at the chasing pirates taking out one of chasing vehicle’s drivers as McKenna continued to close on them George remained down waiting for the hover van to pass-by. Above in the sky the storm’s intensity was continuously increasing Christopher glanced upwards at the energy being used.
“Mind on the game boss†George said in their private channel reading Christopher’s mind.
“Fifteen count†Christopher said George nodded counting himself in the deliberate Rabid Fox way at thirteen McKenna’s hover vehicle flew over the planned point two seconds later George detonated his planted explosives destroying the remaining vehicle. “Good count†Christopher said “we’ve got eight raiders still coming on foot. McKenna is your vehicle still mobile?â€
“Affirmative but I don’t know for how long.â€
“It’s fine head back to base†Christopher said gunning down one of the still pursuing pirates “George we need to go no jumping in this weather move quickly.â€
“Already moving†he said running back up the hill he heard bullets fly past him and ping against the rear of his armour. Passing Christopher he turned and immediately fired allowing Christopher to retreat for the twenty minutes they retreated like this fortunately for the Rabid Fox the pirate raider’s Mechs were off planet today allowing them to escape. In the future Christopher guessed the raider’s Mechs would be present as well and now with Sylvester’s passing things would be more difficult.
Family Reunion
Taurian Palace, Taurus
Hydes Cluster, Taurian Concordat
19th January 3101
The new Capellan Confederation Ambassador approached Protector Erik Martens-Calderon she couldn’t have been more than seventeen years old she seemed to have a mixed heritage which wasn’t a surprise given that this was the Taurian Concordat and the Capellans would care little for them. “Madam Ambassador†he said greeting her.
“Protector it has been a long time†she said there was something about her voice and her look… it couldn’t be. “It’s me father†Aleshia Centrella said quietly confirming his suspicion “officially I am Ambassador for the Capellan Confederation but soon I turn eighteen years old and would be a threat to my brother so I am not to return.†She explained Erik rose from his chair and stepped down so he was standing in front of her they were of a similar height and build Erik had not seen her since 3088 thirteen long years.
“You are very welcome here†Erik said
“I understand I have a step-sister†she said seeing the pain on her father’s face obviously still fresh from his wife’s passing. “I’m sorry for your loss†she said “I’d like to meet my sister when you’re ready.â€
“I’m sure that can be arranged†Erik said after a moment.
“And perhaps pay my respects to her mother†she said
“Yes when the time is right†Erik said quietly “we will make sure your time on Taurus is a good as possible if the Capellan Embassy needs anything please don’t hesitate to ask.†He said all business ignoring the memories and the pain for a moment this young woman was his daughter but it would take time for them to truly get to know each other. Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao was not a stupid man and although Erik had no illusion that Aleshia was a threat to him he knew that she would also be a threat to Nicoletta in the future. Erik would be careful around her for a while and ensure things went right they had a lot of time to make up for despite the possible motives behind it he planned on making the most of the opportunity.
Draconis Combine Offensive
Rasalhague Dominion border
22nd January 3101
The Draconis Combine attempt to recover lost territory currently held by the Rasalhague Dominion they reveal three newly constructed WarShips and seven “Ghost†Regiments raised like the original regiments with the cooperation of Yakuza. The Ghost Bears hold the Draconis Combine back at Luzerne, Byesville and Labrea but Caripare and Asgard are both liberated by the DCMS and their naval support.
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We must sink the Enterprise!
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We must sink the Enterprise!
As long as history remembers the name...
SLDF Firebase, North Nanturo
Vega, Vega Prefecture
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
3rd February 3101
As part of the Star League Defence Force’s agreement with the Draconis Combine and Vega Government the SLDF had permission to land DropShips at their firebase instead of using the planetary spaceport this allowed Lieutenant Morgan Christifori to walk his Penetrator straight off the DropShip and into his new base. The seventy-five ton BattleMech was escorted through the base and into the BattleMech bay used by the Twenty-first Rim Worlds Regimental Brigade parking the Mech in its bay he climbed out pulling with him his duffle bag onto the gantry and down the ladder to the ground joining the other recruits.
After a few minutes a woman walked over towards them she wore the uniform of the Rim Worlds Brigade which was the same as all other SLDF uniforms but also had a blue shield with a star on it, the insignia of the Blue Star Irregulars Mercenary Command where the Twenty-first Rim Worlds had originated, she was in her late forties from what Morgan could see and wore a Lt Colonel’s insignia.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Lt Colonel Stephanie Webber, your new CO each of you are now part of the Twenty-First Rim Worlds Brigade and part of the Twenty-first Rim Worlds Battle Regiment. We are the newest regiment in this brigade and we are going to be the best your training begins tomorrow.â€
“Yes, sir!†The troopers recited in unision
“Welcome to the Twenty-First.†She finished “you will follow Leiutenant Hernandez dismissed†she called out the troopers fell out together following the junior officer into the base beginning their service with the Star League Defence Force.
Homecoming
Washburn, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former Free Worlds League
9th February 3101
Duke Joseph Marik walked into the Temple on Washburn he had intentionally avoided returning to Marik directly it did not seem right instead he had followed his heart. Entering the building he stood quietly at the door for a moment catching his thoughts “still judging yourself before others have a chance I see†a female voice said quietly off to the side he knew the voice immediately turning he saw her.
“Natasha†he whispered “I mean Sister Buckwell†he said more formally she smiled she was shorter than him with long blond hair and expensive looking glasses.
“Welcome home Elder Marik†she said
“Indeed welcome home Joseph†Bishop Callum Roy said stepping out “Natasha to your studies please†he said she nodded giving Joseph another smile before leaving. “Why did you return here Joseph?â€
“My time serving our church was cut short I believed I should return for further duties.â€
“I believe your duties are to our nation Joseph. Your mother and daughter have fallen in service of our nation the burden now falls to you.†Bishop Roy said quietly
“Am I a moral enough person to lead our nation?†Joseph asked sitting down on a nearby chair “I killed a man on New Avalon and knocked two others within an inch of their lives. I left that world in disgrace and now I return to find a nation managing well enough without me at its helm am I to just march in and take charge? What gives me that right?†He asked the Bishop the conflict in his voice obvious to the older man.
“You are Duke Joseph Marik, Duke of Marik and rightful ruler of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and of the Free Worlds League that is your right. You will not just march in and take charge Joseph that is now the man that you are but you must seek to rule it is your family’s birthright. Only five families have the right to claim leadership in the Inner Sphere it is time that Marik returns to the prominence it has lost.†Bishop Roy said trying to instill in Joseph what his parents should have taught him years before despite the sundering of the Free Worlds League and the Wolf invasion there was still room in the Inner Sphere for House Marik to raise once more.
“Then I head to Marik†Joseph said more confidently finding his voice and his purpose.
“You head for Marik†Bishop Callum Roy repeated
“I thank you Bishop†Joseph said bowing his head in prayer for a moment “I will return here.â€
“As Captain-General?â€
“As Captain-General or dead†Duke Joseph Marik confirmed rising from the chair and marching from the temple his next stop would be Marik and the office of the Captain-General.
Press Conference, Political Rally
Aberdeen, New Canton
Star League Protectorate
16th February 3101
At a rally in front of nearly one thousand people Senator Chang Lau stood proudly on the podium in front of them. The great thing about the Star League Protectorate was that anyone could rise to a political leadership position including a student who gained his majors degree on Liao and who had received funding via the Capellan Confederation. Now standing in the capital city of the closest planet to the Confederation his intent was clear gain political office and to drive New Canton back towards the state it belonged to.
Pirate Raid
Broken Wheel, Filvelt Coalition
Periphery
23rd February 3101
The world of Broken Wheel, in the Filtvelt Coalition, is raided by a pirate force known as the Border Lords. Nearly two battalions of Border Lords raid the system causing severe damage to the civilian industry of Broken Wheel and to the Second Filtvelt Citizen Militia taking before they are driven off the planet. A Condor-class DropShip belonging to the Border Lords is captured by the defenders of Broken Wheel but the ship’s computers are wiped stopping them finding out where the vessel had originated.
Rabid Fox Base
Pirate’s Haven, Pirate’s Cluster
Periphery
27th February 3101
The external doors of the Rabid Fox container opened allowing the Infiltrator III Battle Armour suit to enter. Slowly it maneuvered into its bay and was quickly followed by a second after a few moments the external door closed and the toxic air was vented allowing the internal door to open and for the two troopers to enter the container. “Want to hear the big new news from pirate town?†George Hewlett asked Christopher Grant as he saw their commander sitting at the screens.
“An AFFS WarShip armada has entered the system and we’re away to be saved by the Davion Brigade of Guards?†Christopher asked sarcastically knowing it wasn’t even close to the truth.
“Almost better than that†McKenna Wilde said triumphantly
“How can it be better?†Christopher asked now interested
“Nathaniel Gordon is dead†George said triumphantly “one of our shots did a bit more damage than take off his arm the bastard’s dead the pirates are in chaos!†He said crashing down onto one of the chairs.
“We saw two pirate Mechs fighting each other on the outskirts of the base of operations chaos is an understatement†McKenna confirmed.
“Then it’s time to up our timetable†Christopher said “once your suits are recharged we are going into their facility. You two will strike at the Brigand factory I will go after Gordon’s records and see if we can get some information about the people lost to these pirates on Malagrotta.â€
“I thought we were going to just go after the factory? The three of us can’t evacuate thousands of civilians.†McKenna pointed out
“No but we can find information on them†Christopher said “maybe give the next team a chance of helping some of these people.â€
“The armour’s going to take a couple of days until we’ve cleaned out the sand, check functionality and powered it back-up†George said glancing back at the four Battle Armour suit’s Sylvester Keeler’s still sitting silently alongside their own.
“We can use that time to study the plans we have and work out how we’re getting to Post Omega†Christopher said.
“Something we wouldn’t need to do if the powers that be had put the comm. grear in all the pods.†George complained for about the thousandth time.
“Those Black Boxes cost a fortune†McKenna said
“And so does training us but they didn’t skimp on that†George pointed out the money that had been spent on the Rabid Fox training, their Battle Armour suits, the base facilities and their transport here dwarfed that of the cost of the Black Boxes made available to certain supply points but not all of them.
“The bean counters have got to draw a line somewhere†Christopher said looking over at the complaining trooper “when we get back to New Avalon you can lodge your complaint. Now get some sleep both of you we’re going to have a couple of busy days.†He said George nodded while McKenna climbed into her own bunk and was soon asleep leaving Christopher to look over the records.
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New update, I'll post the Nova Cat II and the Jade Lion-class within the next few days depending on how swamped I am
Trials of Possession
New Port Royal, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
2nd March 3101
After the Nova Cat’s Sacred Rite had visited the Raven Alliance the Snow Ravens returned the visit with the First Raven Phalanx Cluster and the Fifth Raven Wing Cluster, both of Alpha Galaxy, travelling to New Port Royal in the Nova Cat’s Den challenging the Nova Cat’s Tau Galaxy to a series of trials. Both Clans fight within the realms of Zellbrigen with the Snow Ravens winning four trials and the Nova Cats winning two from the battles the Ravens take away several trinaries worth of production from the New Port Royal factories while the Nova Cats capture a Star’s worth of warriors as bondsmen. Among the Snow Raven spoils are three examples of the Nova Cat Mk II OmniMech and the right to manufacture the new design.
Confrontation, Marik Palace
Marik, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
5th March 3101
After the gruelling trip from New Avalon to Washburn the trip to Marik had been a far shorter one but one full of trouble finally he was here in the throne room of House Marik. Over the years of the united Free Worlds League the capital had been Atreus but the windswept world of Marik had remained home to his family. Since the birth of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth it had also served as capital to the new nation. Standing looking at the throne Joseph Marik remembered seeing his mother sit there and hearing stories of all the great Mariks who came before leading their family from this room an unbroken chain for centuries until him.
“It’s ready for you†Duke Leonard Stewart said stepping in from a side planning room.
“I will only take it when the time is right.†Joseph said glancing over at the older man. Leonard Stewart was a combat veteran having fought in numerous battles and now he was the man who stood in the way of his rule of their nation “I was sorry to hear of the fall of your homeworld it is a horrible thing for a man to be removed from his home.â€
“We are currently planning on moves on returning Stewart to our nation.†He said ignoring Joseph’s comment about his home.
“And in doing so begin a new war†Joseph said “I understand the need to find ones home but this is not a decision for you to make.â€
“Not mine to make…†Leonard almost whispered Joseph could hear his anger building “and who should make the decision? You? You a man who hasn’t served his people a minute of his life? Whose own mother couldn’t deal with him and shipped him off to some cult?â€
“It is my birthright†Joseph replied calmly ignoring Leonard’s comment on his beliefs.
“It was your mothers and your sisters they both squandered what had been given to them. I offer you the throne of Marik but it will be a chair and a roof over your head I will be maintaining control over our nation for the duration of this crisis after it has passed we can discuss a transition of power.â€
“The threat of Clan Wolf will likely never go away in our lifetime now will the threat of the Isle of Skye so when would we have this discussion?â€
“When the time is right Joseph I am the regent of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and I must do what is right for it.â€
“You are my families Regent I allowed you to remain in this position now is time for you to step aside Leonard we can work together to lead this nation?â€
“Not today you are welcome to remain within the palace for as long as you wish.†Leonard said stepping away from Joseph for a moment he was ready to attack the Duke of Stewart but it wasn’t the right decision and he knew that despite his own training against a combat veteran he’d lose.
“I have already decided to return to Camp Summer assuming you have no objections?â€
“This world is yours there are no restrictions that will be placed on your movements†Leonard confirmed leaving the room. Joseph wasted time in leaving the palace retreating to the Marik family's summer estate there he spent the night in prayer hoping that Leonard would heed his worlds and return their nation to where it belonged. The next morning Joseph returned to the Marik Palace only to find that Leonard Stewart and every senior military leader had already left heading for a staging area near the system of Stewart. Alone in his family’s palace on the world that bore their name Joseph knew that the future of his nation depended on him stepping up to lead and to Leonard Stewart being removed from the equation by any means.
Debriefing, Secret MI6 Facility
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th March 3101
It had been two weeks since Christopher Grant had been extracted from the Pirate’s Cluster and whisked back to New Avalon on board the Clarkston the AFFS Bug-Eye type Surveillance Craft gained from Clan Nova Cat. The ship was now used by DMI Black Ops Christopher doubted that even the First Prince knew some of the things the ship was used for. It had been a long trip and through much of it Christopher had been left to his own devices on the small craft now however at a secure facility he belonged to MI6 once more. Sitting in a non-descript office dressed in a duty uniform for the first time in probably years he waited to be debriefed two officers entered both were middle aged both wore the uniform of an AFFS Colonel with numerous decorations including the insignia of the Rabid Fox he would be debriefed by his peers, at least that was something, the two men sat down behind the desk in front of him the first shuffled some papers that had sat there Christopher guessed they were blank ready for his statement “I am Colonel White†the man said introducing himself “this is Colonel Black. We will begin your debriefing on MI6 Operation Integrity now.†‘Fine’ Christopher thought ‘let’s get to it.’
What followed were hours of debriefing the two Colonels alternating in questioning and changing subject often very rarely straying into the personal or friendly realms but always around this particular mission from planning to extraction. Finally they got to the last few days of the mission. “Following the screw up on intelligence which landed us in that mess and Sylvester’s death we were down to the three of us. We decided as a team to complete both portions of our mission to gather information and destroy the factory.â€
“Why you could have run? After the ambush of your teams and Trooper Keeler’s death no-one would have thought any less of any of you to head to the extraction point and escape to fight another day.†Colonel Black asked calmly
“We’re Rabid Fox we’re not built that way†Christopher answered he remembered saying that exact line after a successful mission in the Draconis Combine. He’d assassinated a high ranking DCMS commander without any of it being traced to the Federated Suns fourteen civilians had been killed as collateral damage during the blast he’d been offered a promotion and a position within the Davion Guards he’d replied with those exact words full of bravado and youth today those were gone those words soulless.
“Of course please continue†Colonel White said
“Because I was the most qualified hacker of our group I headed for Gordon’s command base the pirates were still in chaos following his death it wasn’t easy to slip past those that still tried to guard the base. Wilde and Hewlett headed for the factory…†he said breaking off for a moment.
“Continue†White ordered
“I don’t know exactly what happened but one of the explosives they were planting went off early McKenna Wilde was killed in the explosion.†He said biting the side of his mouth trying to keep his anger in check. “Trooper Hewlett extracted and detonated the remaining explosives not enough to cripple the factory but enough to slow operations.â€
“And your part of the operation?†Black asked
“Went off without a hitch mostly I got some information that’s being looked at now by MI2 Division†he reported the two men in front of him likely knew more than he did about that analysis and would likely learn a lot more from it. “On my way out I must have been seen we had BattleMechs chasing us when we left the facility.â€
“So you headed for Omega?†White asked to clarify his statement
“Negative†we went on a circular route leading the pirates in a merry chase. After the second day we had to abandon our Battle Armour setting self destruct charges to stop them falling into enemy hands. By that time we’d mostly slipped our enemies and was on the home stretch.â€
“What happened to Trooper George Hewlett if you were so successful why did he end up dead and you the only survivor of this Operation?†Colonel Black demanded raising his voice slightly not in anger but instead with authority something both men had lacked until now.
“He saved my life†Christopher said honestly “I missed a patch of quicksand while we were approaching Omega I was going under fast before he waded in there and pulled me out. Before he could get himself free the rope he’d been anchored on snapped I was exhausted I couldn’t get to him he went under before I could react.â€
“A terrible way for a man of his calibre to go out†Colonel White said “you’ve been through a lot Leftenant. I don’t thing you have anything to worry about from this…†he said shuffling his papers again Colonel Black appeared to want to say something but White raised a silencing hand one that a Colonel would never raise to another Christopher had known the two men were not who they said they were this entire time it was the Department of Military Intelligence way. “There is however a mandatory leave period due following an operation with an outcome like this. As we must investigate as much as we can you are placed on leave until the investigation can be completed.â€
“Can I travel during this period?†Christopher asked he wanted to go home and not remain in Avalon City it was in his opinion one of the worse places to be in the whole Federated Suns.
“As long as you remain within the Federated Suns and are contactable at any time.†Colonel Black answered with a nod as he and Colonel White rose to their feet Christopher Grant did the same “you are dismissed Leftenant until further notice.†He said finally Christopher saluted them which both men returned before he left the room “it was time to put everything behind him and get the hell out of this uniform†he thought walking down the corridor. He loved the Federated Suns and being in the Rabid Fox but he’d loved McKenna Wilde a helluva lot more now he needed to come to peace with that.
Jade Falcon Offensive
Cubres, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd March 3101
In an attempt to show that they will not be left behind by the other Clans now will they stop their assaults against the Lyran Commonwealth Clan Jade Falcon enter the Cubres system in the Donegal Province marking the first time a hostile Clan unit had entered the Province’s core since the assaults on Coventry in 3058. They find the Cubres system woefully defended compared to others in the region with only a local militia unit armed with BattleMechs that dated back to the Succession Wars. The Jade Falcons quickly secure the planet with very few casualties on either side as the Cubres defenders realize they cannot defeat the Clansmen. The battle for the planet however is not what stands out as part of the attack completely unnecessary for winning the system it is the WarShip that escorts the ground units that is of most interest.
Based on what appears to be a modified Black Lion design the vessel features vastly upgraded and more varied weapons than any Black Lion every recorded. The design is so different that Lyran Intelligence Services name the class after this first vessel the Jade Lion at eight hundred-and-ten thousand tons the WarShip is a match for almost anything the Lyrans can throw at it.
This attack further threatens Arc Royal and Odessa while also now bringing Donegal and Tharkad into the Jade Falcon’s striking range with the powerful new Jade Lion leading their forces the Jade Falcons aim to prove that they are as much a threat to the Lyran Commonwealth as Clan Wolf is to the Free Worlds League and the Rasalhague Dominion are to the Draconis Combine.
Government Building, Barns
Victoria, Sirdar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
29th March 3101
Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek was one hundred and one years old but still an athletic man and the older commander in the AFFS. He had remained an active member of the AFFS intending on handing control of the March over to Duchess Kym Hasek it was her right to lead the Capellan March after her father George Hasek and he intended on making sure that happened. Today was a step in the right direction in front of him stood Duchess Captain Kym Hasek one of the most successful aerospace fighter pilots of the Victoria campaign. She was shorter than him and had the dark hair of her dead father George Hasek and had every little bit of the determination of a member of her family. Behind them stood more than one hundred officers of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns. “Attention for valour in battle and distinguished service against House Liao I award Captain Kym Hasek with the Limp Sword Award†he said pressing the award to her uniform Kym Hasek saluted him immediately and began to turn away “stand to†Nathaniel ordered “along with this award Kym Hasek you are promoted to the rank of Major and are placed in command of the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers Interceptor Wing.†He said naming one of the wings attached to the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT. Kym looked stunned but Nathaniel stepped closer leaning in “you can’t stay where you are you need to progress to command.â€
“If I’m ready for it I’m a pilot sirâ€
“It’s in your blood for a higher place in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns†Nathaniel said stepping back “good luck with your new assignment Major.â€
“Thank you sir†Kym said saluting before stepping back joining the other officers Nathaniel saw her take her place beside her husband Colonel Richard Steiner of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT.
“We won a great victory here in this system. The Capellans attempted to salt the earth before they left but we did enough to stop them and ensure that Victoria is still a prize of a world that we have denied the Capellans.†He said addressing all of the officers “we cannot let up on the Capellan Confederation we cannot allow our victories today to be rubbed away like our Victories of the Fourth Succession War were.†He said during that war the Federated Suns had reduced the Capellan Confederation to almost half its size but over the years the nation had successfully rebuilt itself each of the Succession States appeared to have the ability to continue on even after many defeats now however Nathaniel and others within the AFFS saw an opportunity one that would be bathed in Capellan blood.
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The Nova Cat II
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/nova-cat-ii/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/nova-cat-ii/)
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And the Jade Lion
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/jade-lion-class-battle-cruiser/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/jade-lion-class-battle-cruiser/)
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Isle of Skye Offensive
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
2nd April 3101
Despite threats from Clan Jade Falcon the Isle of Skye believes that the former-Free Worlds League is a greater threat launching an attack on Kalidasa, Alkes and New Hope. On Kalidasa they encounter and destroy a raiding Clan Wolf trinary which had been fighting an honour duel with the local defenders. Due to the recent fighting against Clan Wolf and the disruption in the in the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth each of the three systems targeted by the Isle of Skye fall to the Lyran forces within a matter of hours.
A week later Clan Wolf retaliate against the Isle of Skye targeting the systems of Lunarn, Hyde, Uhuru and Rochelle with separate Trials of Possession. Only on Hyde do the Wolves suffer significant casualties but this is due to the planet’s hostile weather storm rather than the Lyran defenders fourteen wolf warriors are killed during a freak powerful lightning storm that seizes up BattleMechs and electrocutes battle armour troopers. These victories bring Clan Wolf within a single jump of Star League Defence Force territory on Solaris VII.
Terrorist Attacks
Rim Collection, Periphery
8th April 3101
A series of terrorist strikes target Rim Collection Parliament and Military installations. Two failed strikes are also discovered against the Fire Mandrill’s on All Dawn. Galaxy Marshal Karen Able and her staff along with those in Rim Collection security, Special Operations and their counterpart organisations in the Fire Mandrills and Sphinx Raptor Clan factions are stretched to their limit trying to track down the origin of the attacks. The only clue they can find to the origin of the bombings is two words “Free Collection†across the Rim Collection Intelligence assets scramble to identify who was financing and equipping these terrorists.
In an effort to help the Sphinx Raptors move forward the Rim Collection politicians led by President Nanook and supported by Karen Able try to convince the Fire Mandrills to pass military resources and equipment to the Sphinx Raptors. The Mandrills are resistant to the Rim Collection plans as they do not wish for the Sphinx Raptors to be as powerful as them maintaining their edge over the other Clan faction.
Clan Intervention
Broken Wheel, Filtvelt Coalition
13th April 3101
The Border Lands pirate group strike Broken Wheel for the fourth time in a month crushing the Second Filtvelt Citizens Militia command. During the last attack as the Border Lands move on Broken Wheel’s capital settlement Clan Nova Cat’s Forty-sixth Cavaliers Cluster moves in on the flank of the pirate unit included among the Cavaliers is a star of Dragon Cat II OmniMechs with this battle serving as their combat debut. The Nova Cats completely destroy the raider force securing the planet.
Like the original Dragon Cat, which was developed alongside the original Nova Cat, this new OmniMech was developed with the Nova Cat II. The Dragon Cat II is similar to the original OmniMech it is faster than the Nova Cat II and uses advanced technology including a targeting computer in each configuration and Ferro Lamellor Armour cutting down on damage from enemy Mechs.
Welcomed as saviours from the vicious pirate band Broken Wheel voluntarily welcomes Clan Nova Cat to the planet agreeing to sever ties with the Filtvelt Coalition and submit to Clan rule. The government on Filtvelt claim that Clan Nova Cat were behind the pirate ruse citing Clan Jade Falcon’s use of the Red Corsair during the 3050s to distabilize targets unfortunately there is no evidence to support this claim and the Nova Cats are not sharing data on the origins of the pirate force. Within days of the system joining the Nova Cat’s Den elements of the Forty-sixth Nova Cat Cavaliers land on nearby Wetumpka and annihilate the Sixth Filtvelt Guardians Regiment over the course of a nine hour battle.
Special Forces Raid
Astrokaszy, Periphery
21st April 3101
The Magistracy of Canopus’ Special Forces and Special Operations command the Ebon Magistrate launch an attack on Astrokaszy striking at the Tortugan Phalanx units based on the planet. Although the Magistracy units are better equipped than their pirate rivals they aim to capture pirates some of the pirates and their technology this gives the Tortugan Phalanx a chance to escape. During the battle nearly a company of the Ebon Magistrate’s units are killed in exchange for destroying a battalion of pirates and capturing six warriors alive as well as several data recorders. More than two battalions of pirates scatter and escape from the Magistracy forces but the Ebon Magistrate have enough to continue their search for the the terrorists that detonated a nuclear bomb on Cate’s Hold destroying the Magistracy Highlanders unit at the end of 3100.
Marik-Stewart Civil War
Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former-Free Worlds League
28th April 3101
As Duke Leonard Stewart launches an assault against the system of Stewart with four front-line regiments of Marik-Stewart Commonwealth troops and three WarShips, Duke Joseph Marik launches his own assaults. Striking at key Stewart Family holdings and supporters on Marik, Atreus, Irian and Keystone Joseph Marik aims to cut off the head.
In the Stewart system Duke Leonard Stewart lands on the planet of his birth under heavy fire. Close to the planet the Wolf WarShip Ward’s Legacy, a McKenna-class Battleship, engaged the Thessaly Battlegroup while on the ground Leonard Stewart’s forces faced four clusters of Wolf units. Leonard commanded his units from his Shadow Hawk Land-Air Mech fighting on the ground and in the air over the course of weeks. During the time on Stewart Leonard’s forces destroy three of the Wolf Clusters but their own ground forces are heavily damaged and in orbit the Ward’s Legacy is able to destroy two of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth Eagle-class Frigates escorting Thessaly while keeping the Thera-class Carrier back. After calling for a cease fire the Wolf Commander Galaxy Commander Jessica Ward meets with Duke Leonard Stewart and the two agree that the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth forces would leave the system in Wolf hands and there would be no more fighting.
During the time Stewart is a contested world Duke Joseph Marik strikes at the two Stewart Home Guard Regiments on Marik commanding the First Marik-Stewart Militia and the First Atrean Dragoons Regiments forcing the Home Guard to surrender. At the same time agents fanatically loyal to the Marik family, if not Joseph, strike at Stewart supporters on Atreus and Irian while a team within the Dark Shadows Special Forces command release a biological agent into the air supply of the base on Wendigo killing everyone on the base.
Duke Leonard Stewart returns to Marik with two crippled regiments of tired warriors and one crippled WarShip less than half of the number that he had left with. With massive losses against the Wolves on Stewart and with his power base crippled Leonard Stewart flees Marik heading for Irian knowing that despite Joseph’s efforts that he still had supporters there all but giving up on him having any chance of challenging for the Captain-Generalsy again.
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Time for a proper update - my thanks to James Tanaga for the Rim Collection story lines
Terrorist Campaign
Menkalinan, Star League Protectorate
3rd May 3101
In the early hours of the day the first bomb, a simple car based device, explodes in the capital city of Menkalinan. Two hours after the first detonation with emergency services in attendance a second and third device strike in and around the original detonation point killing hundreds more including dozens of rescuers. Within hours the SLDF’s First Menkalinan Guard Regiment had deployed throughout the capital city hunting for those responsible while also trying to rescue more people from the rubble. Before anyone can react a fourth and fifth detonation tears through the capital targeting a city hospital killing nearly four hundred more including dozens who had been injured by the first bombings.
By the end of the first week a total of nine explosive devices had been detonated in civilian and industrial regions a further six had been found and disarmed before any further damage could be done. A total of sixteen hundred and ten souls had been lost to the campaign in one short brutal week with dozens more in critical condition within heavily guarded medical facilities. The First Menkalinan Guards despite being under-trained and under-prepared for such a campaign had pushed on intent on defending their planet and people while searching for those responsible.
Beyond Menkalinan the Star League Defence Force was criticized by the media for failing to deploy Special Forces units to all its Protectorate planets as quickly as it had promised while other planets stepped up security watching for further attacks. Within the SLDF itself, and more importantly the SLIC and SAS Branches, there were movements to position addition SLDF units in the area while Intelligence assets scrambled to discover who was behind the attacks as there had been no known Menalinan born terrorist organisations prior to the first attack.
Armory Gamma
Clan Enclave, All Dawn
Rim Collection, Periphery
12th May 3101
Khan Aemelia Showers forced herself through the radioactive rubble of what was once the Mandrill’s Armory Gamma. Sweat trickled down her face as she paused to catch her breath. It unnerved her to not be able to wipe the sweat away due to wearing a hazmat suit, but she forced that thought away as quickly as it came as her eyes swept over the scene.
Only decades of being a Warrior kept her from being engulfed in emotions like many of her fellow Warriors, Clan personnel, and the Rim Collection Security Services had upon their arrival. Bodies and debris littered around the now-destroyed factory for nearly two kilometers in every direction. Roughly a hundred thousand civilians, both Clan and Collection, had been lost in the factory’s unexpected explosion.
She snarled to herself as she once again forced herself to move among the rubble. Whoever had done this would pay, she swore to herself for the millionth time. She knew it was no accident, for the timing was just too convenient to be otherwise. President Nanook, both the Sphinx Raptor Khans, her own saKhan, and half the Vice-Presidents on the President’s Council were killed in the nuclear explosion, along with an entire cluster worth of warriors taken from both of the Fire Mandrills and the Sphinx Raptors.
Once again, she cursed her own luck. Her failing health had forced her to abandon her own appearance and instead allow saKhan Bryan Tanaga to take her place. The glorified and public turning over control of the factory to Clan Sphinx Raptor was to serve as a show of unity and solidarity between the two clans. In reality, turning over the smallest of the Mandrill’s factories to Clan Sphinx Raptor was only a very minor lost compared to the political capital she and her Mandrills would have gained.
Yet, with the loss of so many political and military leaders, Aemelia knew the entire Collection, not only her own Clan, now looked to her to guide them. The Smoke Jaguar within her snarled in approval, for it finally showcased her own superiority over the Collection’s freebirths. Yet the Monkey with cried out in grief and demanded swift retribution to any and all dezgra involved in the attack. A feeling echoed by not just her own clan, but by the Raptors and the Collection as a whole.
Luckily, she and the entire Collection knew in their hearts only one group could have carried out the attack, even if there was no proof. She nodded to herself, then turned around and began to make her way back towards the outskirts of the rubble, the Warriors forming her bodyguard detail forming around her.
Once at the outskirts, she nodded in approval as the Kirghiz OmniFighter which carried her to the rubble was still there, ready to take off in a moment’s notice. She and her bodyguards quickly entered the OmniFighter and strapped themselves in before the OmniFighter took off.
Fifteen minutes later, she led her bodyguard detail out of the OmniFighter into one of the many decontamination booths set up in the aftermath of the attack. Just before they entered it, she spoke into her radio a message that riled up the entirety of her Clan and all of the Collection. “It is time we settle past accounts. All forces, Rabid. Repeat: All forces, Rabid. Authorization: Mandrill-Two-Alpha-Gamma-Niner. Over.â€
In the following days, the Rim Collection and its Clan allies turned their entire martial strength on the Free Collection group despite the group refusing to accept responsibility for the attack. Over two thousand members, both active and nominal, are killed or captured in raids and interned in a newly built prison on Gillfillian’s Gold. Meanwhile, the former Rim Collection militia members on Lost activate and begin a violent and bloody resistance against the mercs holding the world for the Lyran Commonwealth. With a power vacuum paralyzing the Rim Collection Government and Clan Sphinx Raptor and a rampant Fire Mandrill Kahn the people look for someone to bring stability.
Press Conference, President’s House
Gillfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
14th May 3101
Spokesperson Maria Schmitt faced the media of the Rim Collection, the Lyran Commonwealth and the Interstellar News Network of the Star League. “Ladies and gentlemen the President will make a brief statement and take some questions, do not interrupt the President.†She warned standing to one side moment’s later President Karen Able stepped into the view of the media.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, due to the attack on All Dawn the Rim Collection has stepped up to full war footing all elections to replace President Nanook and the cabinet has been suspended until the end of the current crisis is over.†She announced as her opening statement “as senior military officer of the Rim Collection I have assumed the position of President and will execute all power entrusted to this position. When the time comes I will step aside from this position for the good of the Collection. Thank you I will now accept some questions?â€
“Galaxy Marshal, you could have assumed power using the emergency powers act of our military forces why accept the position of President?†Local Rim Collection reporter Jewel Gildart asked.
“This is not a military coup I will not assume control over this nation under the authority of a military officer. I will serve our people as President.†She said firmly refusing to admit that this was a seizure of power not that it was undefined how long she would remain in position.
“Do you know who was behind the attack on All Dawn?†A Lyran reporter said
“Rim Collection Intelligence acting alongside our allies in Clans Fire Mandrill and Sphinx Raptor are working on several leads†Karen said cryptically several of the leads pointed at the Lyran Commonwealth however several, two of which were particularly convincing, also pointed towards the Stone Spirits.
“And should you find a lead to your enemy will it return the Collection to war?†Rim Collection based reporter Natalie Taggert asked
“The Fire Mandrill Khan Aemelia Showers has declared that all enemies of the Rim Collection will pay for attacks against this nation. I as President must serve the people of the Rim Collection and I believe that they would agree with our Fire Mandrill ally that our enemies must pay.†She said as a military officer she saw the need to strike back and strike back hard against those responsible for the attack on All Dawn.
“So you would bring war to your people?†The Lyran asked again pushing.
“Only against the right enemy†Karen promised “ladies and gentlemen the Rim Collection has suffered a great loss we will not take steps in the wrong direction that will force further wounds that the Rim Collection does not need.†She said addressing them all while also trying to make sure that the Lyran Commonwealth knew that they would not strike without reason despite the recent fighting between their nations. “Thank you and good night†she finally said before marching from the stage.
Battle site
Zandera, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th May 3101
Leutenant Jason Sortek pulled his Zeus X BattleMech back to its feet after a heavy fall. His assault BattleMech had taken a pounding defending Zandera from Clan Jade Falcon there were two armour breaches one of which had damaged the XXL Fusion engine that powered the Mech but still he needed to fight. The Jade Falcons had arrived on Zandera and nearby Great X, Esteros, Yeguas and Atacongo several days ago as the Clan assaulted the Lyran Commonwealth again. Battle reports suggested that the Lyrans, Mountain Wolves and Mercenaries on Great X and Atacongo were holding their positions forcing the Jade Falcons back Zandera needed to hold as well.
As his BattleMech regained its balance Jason spat blood from his cut mouth the fall smacked his head against the side of the cockpit he guessed he had broken a tooth or two the pain was horrible but he needed to carry on. Two other Mechs of his Eleventh Arcturan Guard lance were destroyed both of their pilots had ejected but he had lost track of them. “They do not get past us†he said glancing over at the other battered Mech an equally battered Hauptmann OmniMech.
“Sure†MechWarrior James Baker replied neither of them believed the words neither of their Mechs were fully operational and they knew there were more enemy Mechs out there. “We will do what we need to†he said.
“Damned straight†Jason said moment’s later their communication channel activated.
“All Arcturan Guard and supporting Mercenary commands the order is GIDEON, repeat GIDEON.â€
“GIDEON? You’ve got to be kidding me†James Baker said angrily. GIDEON was the retreat order after all they had sacrificed it was all over.
“We live to fight another day let’s move†Jason said backing his Mech up suddenly his sensors lit up with enemy targets.
“Or not we’re never outrunning them†James said turning back towards the incoming enemy forces.
“Why the hell not†Jason stated stepping forwards moments later a Nova and Black Lanner OmniMech stepped into view “let’s dance.†He said suddenly seeing a Jade Falcon Jupiter Assault BattleMech step into view supporting the two medium designs as they charged in close intent on finishing off the two damaged assault Mechs. From off to the side his sensors screamed as they detected Elementals closing on the flanks. Jason aimed his autocannon at Elementals and fired the cluster shot cannon tore through the undergrowth striking several of the enemy troopers forcing them down and keeping them lower down on the threat list for now. Off to his side he saw the two Medium Mechs were striking against the Hauptmann causing heavy damage. Seeing they were distracted Jason stalked his Mech towards them firing missiles and lasers into the Black Lanner trying to distract it but as he did the Jupiter made its move engaging the two Lyran Mechs with a mix of ultra autocannons, long range missiles and particle cannons. In the opening barrage a particle cannon tore through James’ OmniMech’s cockpit decapitating the Mech instantly killing the pilot before turning to face another distant threat that Jason couldn’t see leaving him to face the two medium Mechs.
“Son of a bitch!†Jason screamed triggering his autocannon and medium range missiles striking into the Black Lanner tearing off its left arm and crippling its leg knocking it to the ground out of the fight for now. Jason stomped his Mech forward firing his autocannon again into the downed Black Lanner he swung his Mech's right arm missile launcher down on the Nova’s cockpit crushing the pilot inside knocking to Mech to the ground in a heap as it lost all balance. There was no time for respite as the Jupiter engaged again this time with autocannon and missile fire damaging the armour Jason knew he couldn’t fight the Mech at range the Zeus X simply wasn’t built for a long range battle. Pulling his Mech forward Jason felt his whole Mech move out of balance for a moment as his right arm caught on the downed Nova he pulled at the arm but it was stuck in the cockpit of the fifty ton Mech “damn it†he cursed triggering the medium range missile launcher mounted there instantly thirty missiles flew from the launcher exploding as they immediately struck to remains of the cockpit. The use of missiles at point blank range destroyed the missile launcher but it did release the Mech’s arm. Free from the obstruction Jason moved his Zeus forward into the undergrowth as particle cannon fire tore through the air missing the eighty ton BattleMech by metres.
Jason moved his Mech in a circle slowly closing on the Jupiter he knew the Clan Mech couldn’t keep up the particle weapon fire and didn’t have enough ammo for its autocannons and missile launchers to keep up this assault while he did have enough autocannon ammo if he could get close enough. More long range missiles peppered his Mech as he closed on the Jupiter with more internal damage being taken but that didn’t stop him turning tighter Jason dipped his Mech’s right shoulder slamming it into the other Mech staggering the Jade Falcon Mech slightly before raising the autocannon arm. “Take one of these you test-tube freak!†He screamed firing a burst from the autocannon into the stomach of the Jupiter the assault Mech staggered back slightly “oh no we’re not done†he warned pressing his Mech against the other firing another burst of autocannon fire “this is for my lance†he snapped “and my regiment and this planet!†He shouted firing two more bursts of autocannon fire into the Jupiter’s chest smashing through the armour crushing the internal structure, the gyro and engine underneath. As the Mech toppled backwards Jason Sortek watched it fall to the ground without an engine or gyro the pilot and Mech helpless lying in front of him “and this is because you pissed me off†he cursed lifting his Mech’s giant foot smashing it down on the defeated Clansmen crushing the pilot.
Fourteen hours later with the evacuation zones being pressured by the Jade Falcons the remaining Arcturan Guards and thousands of civilians evacuated Zandera abandoning it to the Jade Falcons. Jason’s shattered Zeus X in the hold of one Arcturan Guard DropShip his lance had made up a very small part of the casualties the Guards had taken with nearly two full battalions destroyed. The gun camera footage taken from his Zeus X had made Jason Sortek an unwanted hero of the battle with them showing him personally defeating three enemy Mechs on his own along with an unconfirmed number of elementals. His lance had a total of ten confirmed kills between them one of the highest kill ratios in the Guards unfortunately none of Jason’s lancemates had been recovered before the Guards left the planet.
Corporate Offices, Irian
Irian BattleMechs Unlimited, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth
Former Free Worlds League
28th May 3101
Duke Leonard Stewart felt out of place being escorted by the corporate security officers of Irian BattleMechs Unlimited but he had no choice the corporation would only allow their guards to operate within the walls of their facilities and he needed their help repairing the three remaining BattleMech regiments that he had under his command. The few weeks had not been good ones for his family Joseph Marik having now declared himself Captain-General had acted swiftly eliminating, imprisoning or drumming out every supporter of the Stewart family he could find within the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth military. Leonard Stewart had not expected the ferocity that Joseph had shown but had to admit he was impressed even if the man did seem to be acting on the wishes of his advisers instead of making his own mind regardless he had a mission and appeared to be hell bent on completing it. The former Duke of Stewart had to admit it was exactly what the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth needed to do focus on an issue and hammer it until it was gone, he just hated that it was his family that were the targets.
Not that the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth was currently lacking in targets the Isle of Skye had continued their assaults on the nation despite Clan Wolf’s strike into the Isle. While reports of what was happening in the Lyran Commonwealth were not great it appeared that the Lyrans continued to resist on Hyde and Rochelle despite Clan Wolf being in control. The Isle of Skye meanwhile had marched all over Dieudonne finding the defenders divided and broken from Dieudonne they had marched over Remulac a week later crushing the Eleventh Atrean Dragoons as they went. Two days after that Savannah had fallen to Isle of Skye forces without a shot fired until finally they had been stopped in the Nathan system not by Marik-Stewart Commonwealth forces but by the Star League Defence Force. News reports filtered quickly that Nathan and Alphard had declared themselves neutral in the battle between Marik and Stewart families and to protect their populations had sided with the Star League Defence Force intending on making it a more permenant arrangement. Normally having worlds choose to side with another nation instead of your own worked against a leader however in this case it worked for Joseph Marik as both Nathan and Alphard had supported his family for many years now he was effectively exiled here on Irian at the whim of the corporate leadership of the planet even now he had been summoned to a meeting.
The sight that Leonard saw on entering the meeting hall was not a group of bickering corporate leaders or several arguing generals instead it was a single man Captain-General Joseph Marik. Dressed in a business suit Joseph actually looked a lot more imposing now than he had those weeks ago on Marik he looked like a leader. Leonard’s hand instinctively moved towards his hip holster but his sidearm had long ago been taken by the Irian Corporate Security staff luckily Joseph was alone and did not appear armed.
“I didn’t come here to fight you Leonard†Joseph said having seen Leonard’s movement towards his weapon belt “come in and close the door behind you†he commanded. Duke Leonard Stewart was not used to being ordered around but did as he was ordered “it is time we discussed your position, or lack of one within our Commonwealth.â€
“I think that would be wise we would be stronger together facing the Lyran Commonwealth and Clan Wolf than we are apart.†He agreed deciding it was time to stop trying to become a Captain-General and instead try and work with this one.
“Clan Wolf is not interested in fighting us the Lyrans are providing them with plenty of sport†Joseph said dismissively “and I have just agreed a peace deal with the Lyrans before coming here.â€
“A peace deal?â€
“Yes, they retain the territory they have gained and we gain a lasting peace†Joseph explained.
“You cannot abandon our systems to the Lyrans!†Leonard said angrily
“I did not you did†Joseph snapped back “the moment you attacked Stewart you weakened our collective defence we did not have the resources to take on Clan Wolf but you decided to squander our forces instead of dealing with me†he pointed out Leonard knew he was right. The former Duke of Stewart should have swallowed his pride and left his homeworld to the Wolves and dealt with Joseph Marik instead.
“You are correct.†He said deciding reconciliation was better than further unnecessary bloodshed “I am ready to serve you in your capacity as Captain-General.†He said humbly Joseph Stewart laughed, he laughed at Leonard, considering his godly beliefs Leonard had not expected that reaction.
“I’m sorry but that simply will not be happening†Joseph said retrieving a letter from his breast pocket placing it on the desk “as of today’s date your families authority in the Commonwealth is rescinded the remaining Home Guard Regiments have been stood down from our active regiment list all Stewart military assets still active within the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth beyond this date will belong to my family or be classed as outlaws it will be against the law for House Stewart to hold position or rank within our military.â€
“You cannot be serious!†Leonard snapped but Joseph raised a hand to silence him continuing.
“You Leonard Stewart and your offspring will be exiled from our nation forthwith failure to leave will result in your detention and incarceration.â€
“I am of noble blood…â€
“It is arrest or execution your choice†Joseph said bluntly “your civilian assets and land owned will remain as part of the Stewart family estate and can be maintained and expanded by someone appointed by you. These assets will be monitored by SAFE and should they be deemed a threat to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth or my family they will be seized by the state and those individuals responsible arrested and imprisoned.†Joseph said Leonard had stopped interrupting and instead was staring at the table between them his fight was gone. “Do you understand my terms?â€
“Yes†Leonard whispered before finding his voice “I do Captain-General†he said a moment later this time clearly as he looked at Joseph Marik “you have done well.†He said congratulating the man in a short time he had gone from an inexperienced unwanted noble child to a leader worthy of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.
“I have business of state to take care of I will leave you to make arrangements to leave Irian.†Joseph said stepping around the table walking towards him “you have a week to leave my worlds do not return or you will regret it.†He warned the man finally before leaving the room.
Six days and twelve hours later Leonard Stewart, his family and a full Battalion of his closest supporters left Irian on a DropShip bound for the system of Nathan which was now controlled by the SLDF after the world had been formally accepted into the Star League Protectorate along with Alphard. The Star League had agreed to give him political asylum as long as he agreed not to try and form an army on their territory to return to the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth by force he had quickly agreed he had no idea what he would do in the future after this defeat. Leonard Stewart wanted to fight a quiet corner and forget about everything for a while.
In his former home a sea of changes had already begun Captain-General Joseph Marik with the support of the government had announced that their nation would now formally be known as the Unified Marik Worlds intent on showing a fresh start was being made. Joseph Marik had also announced his engagement to Sister Natasha Buckwell a fellow member of the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints based on Washburn and a range of new spending changes on defence, infrastructure and trade.
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Tech demonstration, Gilmour MilTech
Talitha, Star League Protectorate
10th June 3101
“Ladies and Gentlemen I am Marla Landers of Gilmour MilTech.†The spokesperson said to the assembled reporters and guests “as you know we, along with LexaTech Industries of Irece, have been striving to improving the Land Air BattleMech intending on making these units as versatile and as popular as a regular BattleMech.†She said “our first innovation in LAM design resulted in the construction of the Yurei LAM which included our revolutionary LAM Gyroscope a critical piece of weight saving technology.†She said as she spoke a Yurei LAM stepped into view gaining polite applause the unit had served with the DCMS, SLDF, mercenaries and various militaries of the Free Worlds League along with every other design built by the two companies. “Neither us nor LexaTech Industries were ready to sit our success instead we continued our research and development to produce something that will revolutionise Land Air Mech technology.†She said above them there was a roar as another LAM flew overhead anyone accustomed to Land Air Mechs would know it was another Yurei this one in aerospace fighter mode the aircraft looked slightly different from the one standing in front of them but nothing overly different or impressive. Slowly the aircraft turned back towards them even at this distant the crowd could tell that the Yurei was converting into AirMech mode as they could see the legs extending, again little about the design looked overly different, as it quickly approached their position. Almost at the last moment showing the versatility of the LAM the final tansformation took place with the Yurei’s wings folding away and its back straightened the Mech’s jump jets fired breaking its velocity to virtually nothing as it came down for a picture perfect landing. “Ladies and gentlemen allow me to introduce to you LexaTech Industries and Gilmour MilTech’s most recent product the Yurei S-YR-2.†She said looking at the two Mechs side by side there were suttle differences in the armour suggesting the new Yurei had a heavier armour arrangement. Weapon wise the unit also looked different with a cannon, possibly a type of particle cannon on one arm and two two-tube missile launchers set into the torso armour. “The Yurei 2 has superior armour to the original Mech and it carries a Light Particle Cannon and two Short Range Missile Launchers for armament.†Marla said the crowd did not look overly impressed the unit did not carry much more punch than the standard Mech even if it did have additional armour protection it barely seemed worth it. “Unlike the original Yurei which was capable of moving a little over eighty-six kilometres an hour while our new Mech is able to top ninety-seven kilometres an hour†she said considering the Mech still carried a decent amount of weapons and armour the crowd now looked impressed as it brought the forty ton Yurei up to the speed of most light Mechs instead of lagging behind which the original design did in Mech mode. “These impriovments are brought by the use of the LAM Gyro and the newly developed LAM engine an engine intended on duplicating the effects of a Light Fusion Engine used by BattleMechs.†She said surprising everyone the original Star League Defence Force’s developers and manufacturers had tried and failed to bring weight saving technology to the LAMs due to their complexity and need to convert between movement modes. “We have succeeded where those that came before us failed†Marla said as if reading the audience’s mind “by orientating the entire engine at a ninety-degree angle compared to a standard fusion engine this means that the LAM Engine dominates the centre torso resulting in the mech needing to use a LAM Gyro along side it.†She explained “like the LAM Gyro this new technology will not be limited to the Yurei†she said as a roar of engine noise increased from behind them moments later almost perfectly on que a trio of LAM designs a Screamer, Shadow Hawk and Stinger all flew overhead each looked slightly different from the original designs. All three followed the same course that the second Yurei had converting into BattleMechs coming into a landing beside the second Yurei making for an impressive sight. “Ladies and Gentlemen Gilmour MilTech and LexaTech are proud to present our Land Air Mech lance.†She said finally resulting in a standing ovation from the crowd finally it looked like these two companies had brought the LAM type of unit onto a competitive level with the standard BattleMech but only time would tell.
Border Raid in Force
Andruien Commonality, Capellan Confederation
17th June 3101
After months of border skirmishes including an attack against St Ives itself the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns High Command authorise a strike against the Capellan Confederation. Taking a lesson from the tactics used by the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry’s against the Federated Suns during their service to Capellan Confederation the First Kathil Uhlans launch an attack against the Confederation.
Starting with company sized units striking against Holloway, Madras and Xieng Khouang before the full unit supported by the FSS Ferdinand, a Robinson III-class Transport, and an additional wing of aerospace fighters strike at Grand Base, former baseworld of the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry. Not attempting to seize territory the Uhlans run rampant for four days causing chaos with the defenders and damage to Grand Base’s military industry before abandoning the planet disappearing back into space.
Fire Mandrill Raid
Seven Lands, Stone Spirit Territory
23rd June 3101
Yu watched, nauseated, as he and his point of Warriors pushed their way through the Stone Spirit warship. How the Spirits had found, much less reactivated, the ancient Riga-class frigate was beyond him it was old even by Star League standards. He didn’t exactly care though his mission was to capture the ancient warship and that was what he and his warriors, his Makos, were doing. Methodically moving from compartment to compartment they had already lost half of their number just getting on-board the WarShip as the Stone Spirit crew swatted Fire Mandrill DropShips with their ship’s naval weaponry.
Now fighting for control of the vessel it occurred to Yu that fire and micro-gravity should never be mixed together as he and his Warriors passed charred and burning bodies. Each and every bulkhead they came to, they merely poked a hole in, then fired the built-in flamethrowers of their Salamander battle armor for a few moments filling the next compartment with fire the defenders couldn’t stop the fire even if they vented the compartment as the Salamander’s weapons were fueled by releasing energy from their suit’s power systems and did not need air to burn.
A nightmarish death for the Stone Spirit crewmen to be sure, but that couldn’t be helped, for it kept combat losses to his own Makos a bare handful on board the ship which was much needed since the losses taken getting here. A WarShip being Elemental-bombed, as the technique was known, was never good during battle for the crew it turned their WarShip into a battleground and turned the mighty war vessel into a fortress with a siege mentality. In this ship’s case they had no chance the Mandrills were too angry too desperate to make sure the job got done.
Suddenly the lights in the compartment they were in switched off, then Becka’s voice reverberated throughout the ship. “Attention all Spirits. Your engine room is now under Fire Mandrill control. Either surrender and become proper bondsmen of Clan Fire Mandrill or die when I turn the power off to your compartments. All compartments have five minutes to respond. Out.â€
He nodded in his suit approving, as multiple departments began announcing their immediate surrenders via intercom the crew were not trained marines and lacked Battle Armour none of them wanted to die gasping for air as their compartments were powered down and vented. The Collection no longer was in the mood to play with the Spirits in the aftermath of the attack on Armory Gamma. Only the fact current evidence of Clan Stone Spirit involvement in the attack was circumstantial had kept the Warriors of Clan Fire Mandrill and their brethren in Clan Sphinx Raptor from engaging in a Trial of Annihilation.
An hour later after the last hold out Stone Spirits had been eliminated the remaining crewmen and women of what was once the CSS Bloodstone were slowly hustled into a fighter bay under heavy guard from Yu’s remaining Makos. Only those needing immediate medical care and Clan Stone Spirit medical personnel were kept separate in one of the ships three overflowing life stations.
Only after each compartment was checked, double checked, and finally triply checked did Yu click on his radio. “Khan Showers, the Bloodstone is finally under our control. You may continue.â€
Battleground
Seven Lands, Stone Spirit Space
23rd June 3101
Following the heavy ground fighting Khan Aemelia Showers surveyed the battlefield. There was Stone Spirit bodies and equipment littering the area intermingled with lost Fire Mandrill and Sphinx Raptor equipment. Yet while the Jaguar within snarled in victory, the Mandrill cautioned her something was not right and that she listened to.
As she walked past the fiery wreck of what was once a Warhammer IIC, it all came together. Why weren’t the Raptors prepared for the Collection’s assault into its territory if it had a part to play in the attack on Armory Gamma? That thought gnawed at her. If the Spirits were indeed innocent, then who-
Suddenly it all came together. Yet she knew she needed strong, hard evidence. Reaching down, she clicked on her radio so all her units, even those in orbit of Seven Lands, could listen. “All units, this is Showers. I am bypassing all command levels. Your singular order is this. Find any and all evidence the Spirits were part of the attack on Armory Gamma. Star Admiral Malcolm Lynn, send word to all units outside of Seven Lands and Cauldron. They are ordered not, repeat not, to continue the planned assault into Stone Spirit territory and instead shift themselves to Waypoint as soon as possible. I think we been had and if we were, there is a certain Lyran dezgra on our border we need to kill. Showers out.â€
And if they had been, there WILL be a reckoning. For that, Showers promised herself as she began to study the battlefield much more carefully, this time for vindication their worthy enemy still was honorable. Fourteen hours later, she had her answer as her people answered she’d been right.
Twenty-eighth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
29th June 3101
In almost a carbon copy of the previous year’s event MechWarrior Michael Locke piloting an Awesome M11 dominates the competition. The pilot, who had been a complete unknown before the previous year’s competition, had fought in the assault competition throughout 3100 and shown he was more than capable of battling on Solaris and in this performance could not be beaten. Question marks on where he had come from began to rise as few believed he was from an unknown world in the Free Worlds League, nor did they think he had just modified his Awesome to the spec of the M11, instead the question of corporate support began to be asked.
Have a happy Hogmanay everyone!! [cheers]
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Great update! New tech for LAM's! Happy New Year!
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New LAM Tech
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/new-tech-lam-advancements/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/new-tech-lam-advancements/)
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My first update of the New Year I hope everyone had a good one and enjoys the update.
My thanks to James Tanaga who brings us the first part - the Lyran POV of the Rim Collection's recent troubles and their reactions.
Throne Room, Steiner Palace
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd July 3101
Archon Jessica Steiner halfheartedly listened to Michael Sherris as she continued to drum the fingers on her right hand against her throne, glaring at the annoying dummkopf as he continue to defend himself voraciously, she hated dealing with people like him almost as much as she hated sitting on this throne.
An annoying little weasel, she thought idly to herself as she held up her hand. Instantly, the man’s blathering vanished.
“Do you have any idea what your latest fiasco against the Collection has cost us, Duke Sherris,†she asked, as if she was discussing the weather.
“My Lady-,†she cut him off.
“I ASKED DO YOU KNOW WHAT IT HAS COST US!†she screamed, finally having had enough of the weasel in front of her, leaning forward as she did so. She continued a moment later, not allowing the simpering fool to recollect himself. “Let me tell you what the actions of your ‘Free Collection’ have cost us! The Collection has utterly ANNIHILATED our military and merchant JumpShip fleets in the Kaumberg theatre. They are beyond capturing and have moved to DESTROYING our JumpShips!â€
She paused seeing the man pale and look at her in shock, allowing the man to take in what she was telling him. The lifeblood of any interstellar power was its JumpShips. “I see you finally are catching on, Duke Sherris,†she said calmly after reclining back into her throne.
“W-We still can-still can destroy them though, My Lady,†the now stuttering man replied.
“Now that is a thought, isn’t it? Why haven’t I thought of it,†she asked sarcastically. “General Grey, why haven’t I destroyed the Collection?†she asked her General of Armies standing next to her throne.
“Because by destroying the Collection, we open ourselves to attacks on other fronts and enter into a war whereby we can only gain a Pyrrhic victory at best,†Aiden Grey dutifully answered her as he too glared at the exiled duke. “Our economy will be in tatters. Many worlds will be starving due to scarce food, plagued by disease because of no medicine, and vital war industries shutting down because the necessary replacement parts no longer being able to reach them.†He said painting the bleakest picture he could he didn’t need to mention that the Wolves, Jade Falcons and Hell’s Horses would rip their nation to pieces. “We will win the war against the Collection, but other, much stronger enemies will be poised to invade us. In such a scenario, the Lyran Commonwealth will be hard pressed to survived,†he grimly stated.
“And that, my dear Duke is why the Lyran Commonwealth will not fight your war,†she answered the prideful man.
“What!†the exiled Duke of Timbuktu yelled out, only to be grasped by the squad of royal guards that were around him. Only after he was well in hand did she allow herself to smile at him.
“Instead, in the interests of peace with the Collection and to bring justice to the civilians that died in the Free Collection’s nuclear attack on All Dawn, I have decided the Free Collection and its affiliates here in the Lyran Commonwealth to be outlawed-,†he interrupted her, screaming.
“You can’t! You can’t do this!†as the guards tightened their grip on him.
“I already have." She said silencing him "at 0100 hours this morning, the Timbuktu Freedom Guard, the Free Collection’s combat arm stationed on Kaumberg and financed by you, were forcefully seized by Lyran forces their assets will be used to rebuild damaged LCAF units and its troopers checked by the LIC for crimes against the Lyran Commonwealth and the Rim Collection,†she informed the struggling man. “Moreover, your assets and that of your House have been seized and your family has been placed in protective custody.â€
All fight in the Exiled Duke left him when he heard her. “My family…â€
“Will be provided for.†She promised him “your daughter will be allowed to remain a cadet at the Coventry Military Academy and serve her time within the LCAF. Your wife and son will stay on Tharkad as my guests,†hostages really, they both knew. “They will live comfortable lives you, though, will be tried for financially supporting a known enemy of the state, be found guilty, and sentenced to live out your life as a prisoner of the state. An example of what happens when nobles overstep their bounds.â€
A long moment of silence pervade the throne-room before he finally nodded, subdued in shock. Waving her hand, she dismissed the Duke of Timbuktu and his guards. Only after they had left did she turn to Aiden Grey. “Were you telling the truth earlier, Aiden?â€
He shrugged in reply. “If the Collection had carried out the attacks that you inferred had already taken place the entire Kaumberg Theatre would likely be close to collapse.†Fortunately the mere presence of two WarShips in the Kaumberg system and a threat from Khan Showers had gotten the Lyrans attention immediately. Jessica did not like answering to the Clanner but Sherris was wrong as was the Free Collection movement the LIC had so far found not a single piece of evidence that the Fire Mandrills or Sphinx Raptors were rampaging clanners like the Wolves or Jade Falcons on occasions had been and they were nowhere near the levels of brutality and aggression of the now dead Smoke Jaguars. She also wanted them to be in the area as a counter for the mysterious Stone Spirits, having the Rim Collection and its pets on her side might help in the future.
“That old bitch just need to roll over and die†Jessica Steiner admitted out aloud “and the gall of them demanding the right to purchase an Isis-class Scout Carrier as part of the bargain.â€
“At least they need to pay for it Lockheed/CBM will be pleased, it will fund their other projects, and the Rim Collection will still need to wait for the ship to be built.†Grey said
“Agreed†she said nodding to him before slowly getting up and stretching “After having to deal with that dummkopf, I need to get some space under me and back to the Iron Fist.†She said thinking of her WarShip.
“About that†the General of Armies said quietly handing her a small document the Archon took it in her hands and glanced over it.
“You are joking†she said looking at Aiden Grey “he cannot make executive decisions.â€
“In fact he can†he answered “you charged your husband with executing decisions of your office when you were not on Tharkad this is under his purview.â€
“I’ll rescind it†Jessica snapped angry that her husband had done this without consulting with her.
“Rescinding an executive document takes a minimum of three days and any that effect the military require the agreement of the General of Armies.†He explained
“And let me guess you agree with my husband?â€
“The Admiral’s plan is a good one and it adds another layer to your safety and provides the Commonwealth with a hammer for any of our opponents.†He said Jessica reluctantly nodded perhaps it would give her options in the future that otherwise she wouldn’t have. As per the executive order the LCS Typhoon, a second Mjolinir-class Battle-cruiser, was to permanently be assigned to the LCS Iron Fist as escort and bodyguard, for her, together they would be a potent force but it would restrict their ability to defend their systems.
“Then the next time I face an enemy of our nation they will pay for it†she said deciding to make the most of it instead of disagreeing with her military leader and her husband. In either case it would make things easier in battle and at home for her to accept that it had been made.
"How is Patrick handling it?" She asked Aiden she had barely seen him since their son's death it wasn't her husband's fault but she couldn't face it not yet.
"He has the politicians running in circles not knowing where he will strike next but he misses you and he misses being in space the Admiral lived in the black long before he met you." Aiden reminded her "Tharkad misses their Archon it has been a long time since we have had a Fighting Archon some of the more traditional types think you have too much of the Davion blood from your father."
"Would they prefer the Marik from my mother?" Jessica asked laughing she loved her departed mother Isis Steiner dearly and missed her every day, Jessica knew that the Commonwealth as a whole missed both of her parents, but her mother's blood heritage occasionally came in very useful.
"Probably not" Aiden admitted "but it wouldn't hurt if you were at home more often."
"You know as well as I that the black is my home ever since my first flight it has gotten into me I can't let it go." She said quietly "I won't let it go" she said defiantly Aiden Grey nodded he knew that arguing with her on this particular topic wouldn't get him anywhere instead he would support his Archon in any way he could.
Deep raid
Andruien Commonality
Capellan Confederation
14th July 3101
Combined-arms battalions of Mechs, vehicles and Battle Armour of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT strike at Kashdach and Sigma Mare causing chaos with the defenders and millions of C-Bills of damage. As the defenders rally the Uhlans retreat disappearing back into space rejoining with hidden Invader-class JumpShips at pirate jump points leaving the system.
Naval Redeployment
Crucis March, Federated Suns
16th July 3101
Following an increase in Taurian, Nova Cat and pirate aggression the AFFS Admiralty re-deploys the entire Fifth WarShip Battle Group along the shared borders with the Nova Cat’s Den and Filtvelt Coalition the six WarShips providing much needed support to the increased AFFS ground forces and mercenary units assigned to the region.
Quick Reaction Force
SLDF Deployment Base, Menkalinan
Star League Protectorate
31st July 3101
In response to the terrorist attack on Menkalinan the Eighty-eighth Special Operations Battalion had been deployed to the planet as quickly as an SLDF Transport could be arranged now in the briefing room Colonel Walter Jackson looked over his troops. “Alright settle down people let’s start!†He barked gaining their attention slowly his people quickly settled down taking their seats “right we all know why we are here†he said “these terrorists have caused nothing but destruction since they appeared no ransom demands or goals are apparent so it seems that chaos is their goal. High Command has ordered that we hunt down and eliminate our enemies if we need to do it publicly we are to do so.†He said seeing the surprise from some of the troopers normally their operations were done in secret or in remote locations far from prying eyes. “High Command has also said that should we be directed to we are to engage them wherever we are directed by the spooks including industrial or civilian areas with no regard to collateral damage.†Again there was a series of shocked looks and predictably one of them interrupted him.
“Be damned with that†someone said speaking up
“Allow me to be very clear†Jackson said shutting the man down quickly with a stern look “if we are directed to engage in a civilian area we will minimize all damage that we do regardless of the cost to the operation or us.†He said they all knew that he wouldn’t put them at risk intentionally but he didn’t want a unit of war criminals regardless of command orders. “We’ll hunt them down and do our job†Jackson said “but there are some restrictions that we will remain to I won’t see any of you put in a position where civilians are intentionally put at risk.†He promised them “Additionally there will be no R&R off base during this operation†he said he heard and saw their disappointment “if you are in public you will wear full body suits regardless of you position I want to see none of your pretty faces on the news and none of you are to sneak into the local towns in civilian gear either!†He snapped before anyone got any fancy ideas “if anyone of this QRF gets off base or fails to make rolecalls I will personally bring a hell down on this entire unit that none of you have ever felt before. There will be no screw ups on this planet, no opportunities for our enemies to easily hurt us, we are here to do a job let’s do it.†He said dismissing the troops as they moved out Colonel Christopher Lawrence, commander of the First Menkalinan Guard, remained.
“A little harsh on them†he observed
“These people we are fighting don’t care about killing civilians what do you think they’d do to a Special Forces trooper of the SLDF?†Jackson asked “I won’t have one of my people traipsed through the streets by an organized mob or executed on Tri-Vid.â€
“I will crack down on my people as well so yours don’t feel like they are being singled out†he said suddenly thinking his own people would be just as at risk.
“I would appreciate that.†Jackson said not wanting to admit that he had realized the man was trying to make up for his mistake in not stopping his own people’s breaks into the nearby towns as far as Jackson was concerned the planet beyond this base was a hostile environment and until he was convinced otherwise that’s how he’d act in response to keep his unit and his people safe.
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A short update
Deep Raid
Buenos Aires, Andurien Commonality
Capellan Confederation
8th August 3101
After a series of small assaults the First Kathil Uhlans RCT strike fully at Buenos Aires in the heart of the Andurien Commonality. On the planet they found the Sixth Confederation Armoured Cavalry waiting for them. The AFFS unit struck the Confederation defenders with the precision and speed of an elite command striking all across the Sixth’s lines before fading away. For eight days the Uhlans strike against the Cavalry almost at will striking with speed and power before fading away from their enemy but they are unable to inflict crippling damage on the defenders nor are they able to capture any of Buenos Aires major industry. On the 16th everything changes again with the Seventh Liao Lancers Regiment arriving at a pirate point.
Avoiding the FSS Ferdinand the Liao Lancers stream onto the planet landing in a flanking position against the Uhlans despite being only a regular rated unit the arrival of a second regiment against the AFFS command is enough to force their retreat from the planet and then the system.
Anti-Clan Operations
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
25th August 3101
After being stationed on the Jade Falcon border for nearly three decades and mostly restricted to defensive operations the Light Horse Brigade of the SLDF’s Third Division strike Clan Jade Falcon’s Occupation Zone along with Mountain Wolf ground forces and naval units from the Lyran Commonwealth.
With the Mountain Wolves striking at Zandera and Dela the Light Horse strike beyond them at Yeguas. Landing early in the morning on the 25th the Light Horse Brigade move quickly against the Jade Falcons with their Mech units benefiting from years of experience fighting the Falcons, and a not insignificant amount of Clan technology, the 1894th Light Horse strike rapidly with the Eighth Royal Battle Armour Battalion riding on board the unit’s many OmniMechs.
This initial strike puts the Jade Falcons on the defensive while the secondary strikes by 1894th’s armour regiment and the brigade’s Fifteenth Alliance Light Armour Regiment drives the Jade Falcons into defeat. Close air support from the Star Hunters Air Wing finally breaks the Clan defenders forcing them into full retreat abandoning their defence and the planet.
Not all their strikes are so successful with the Mountain Wolf battle on Zandera a near complete failure with the destruction of the Third Wolf Grenadiers Cluster of Beta Galaxy. Forced to retreat the Mountain Wolves pull back within the Lyran Commonwealth watching for Jade Falcon reprisal strikes while the SLDF and Mountain Wolves secure their positions on Dela and Yeguas.
Royal Wedding, New Chicago
Washburn, United Marik Worlds
Former Free Worlds League
28th August 3101
The United Marik Worlds take another step forward with the announcement of the marriage of Captain-General Joseph Marik and Sister Lucy Buckell at the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints Temple in New Chicago the capital of Washburn. The two had only been engaged for a short period but had known each other for years before across the United Marik Worlds the marriage is seen as another step towards more stability; something that has been sorely missing over the last few years.
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Yay two updates for the weekend!
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Time for the weekend time for an update. My thanks to James Tanaga for the continuing Rim Collection story.
FSS Ferdinand (Robinson Block III-class Transport)
Broden, Andurien Commonality
Capellan Confederation
1st September 3101
The FSS Ferdinand rocked heavily from another capital missile hit. Things had gone badly from the moment they had entered the system at the Nadir point an Invader-class JumpShip holding three Mule-class Transport DropShips it had seemed unapposing until all three DropShips had detached and began targeting the AFFS units with capital missiles. At the same time nearly two wings of aerospace fighters had rose from the Zenith point, the Kathil Uhlans had jumped into a well staged trap. The ground forces had scattered but the three Mules were not targeting individual DropShips instead they had targeted the unit’s four JumpShips obliterating all three and two DropShips which couldn’t detach quickly enough. Now two days later after dodging several attacks the FSS Ferdinand and the AFFS DropShips had arrived in orbit of Broden and were beginning their landing procedures. “Sir the General’s DropShip just took a capital missile hit!â€
“Are they still flying?†Commodore Ben Gates asked glancing back at the officer
“Yes sir they are still attempting landing procedures.â€
“Move over them we’ll take any more hits.â€
“We won’t last long if we’re that exposed sir†his XO Catherine Smith warned the Ferdinand rocked heavily under another hit almost as if to reinforce her point.
“We’re not going to last much longer at this rate either way. Our job is to get our ground forces on the deck and weaken the Capellans in that order†Gates said glancing around the small bridge as the ship continued to shake under the enemy fire “inform Colonel Steiner to get his ass in his Mech and off this boat no time for pleasantries. As soon as those Mechs are out of the cargo bay and the General’s ship is in the atmosphere sound for all hands to abandon ship. Ladies and gentlemen it’s been a true honour to serve with you but the time is almost upon us when the time comes I want each of you to abandon this ship hook up with our ground forces and continue to resist the Capellans a rescue ship will come.†He said he had no idea how they would come there had been no pre-made plan to the Uhlans strike on the Confederation only to strike at systems of opportunity and keep the Confederation off guard.
From the underside of the Ferdinand BattleMechs began to fall from the underside of the WarShip heading into the atmosphere. The surviving aerospace fighters of the Ferdinand and of the Uhlans fought and died defending the falling MechWarriors. Colonel Richard Steiner’s Mad Cat Mk II Enhanced waited for its turn to drop Richard had done this hundreds of times in training and in combat but today was different they were on the back foot heading towards enemy territory that was most likely ready for them. Time slowly ticked down to 0 then the Mech dropped quickly slamming into the atmosphere of Broden Richard listened to the radio of his people and the DropShips around him under attack. Burning through the atmosphere like a human made meteorite Richard hit the release button kicking away the re-entry cocoon the air around Richard’s Mech was on fire as CCAF and AFFS aerospace fighters fought each other. Richard activated his Mech’s jump jets on a slow burn bringing his Mech down slowly towards the ground.
Landing in a farmer’s field Richard scanned the area seeing no hostile targets “Hammer One, I’m on the ground sound out†he said calling on his Mech Regiment first then all other units. Slowly units called in filling out his list of survivors there were some obvious targets missing from the DropShips he new had already been destroyed by Capellan naval units. “Any sign of Anvil?†He called out referring to General Garret Deans no-one answered “Hammer One to Ferdinand status?†He called out expecting that without ground forces to ferry and defend the WarShip would have destroyed the enemy forces above them however things were not going well moments later there was a huge explosion overhead which had once been the Ferdinand. “Thank you Ferdinand†he said Richard said quietly knowing that explosion was their WarShip. “Hammer One all units I’m calling for a rendezvous at point marked ALPHA make your way there if you are unable within the next twenty-four hours move towards point marked BRAVO.†He said signing out moments later missile trails dropped through the atmosphere from orbit one landing in the field next to Richard a massive explosion followed the missile striking the ground. “Hell†Richard whispered moving his Mech away from the explosion it seemed without Ferdinand they were now a target for the Capellan naval units.
Over the coming two weeks the Kathil Uhlans are able to destroy the defending units on Broden but they are unable to strike at the orbiting Capellan DropShips. In an effort to destroy the Uhlans from orbit the Pocket WarShips rain capital weapons fire down on the surface killing hundreds of civilians in the process. This forces the AFFS unit to split into smaller units and scatter across the surface of the planet trying to hold on until friendly units arrive to evacuate them.
RCS Providence
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
11th September 3101
Khan Aemelia Showers stood with her arms crossed over her chest as she looked out through the observation window upon the battered Riga-class frigate as she waited for her guest to arrive. Where the Stone Spirits had gained the ancient warship, she had not a clue, but it was no matter now it was her Clan’s.
She smirked, for the Collection had given the Stone Spirits a bloody nose, capturing the worlds of Cauldron and Seven Lands as well as the warship before her. She knew the Spirits would respond and as a Clan Warrior she looked forward to the coming response.
The sound of the automatic door behind her opening then closing broke her from her thoughts. Turning around, she found her guest had arrived. Galaxy Commander Evangeline Clarke, leader of the Steelsoul Khanate, one of the Collection’s closest allies, had finally arrived the young Galaxy Commander was twenty years her junior but she could see the drive and determination oozing from her.
“Khan Aemelia Showers, I see your Clan and your Collection allies remain strong,†the other female Warrior began. “Five worlds admitted into your Collection including the two taken from the stravag Spirits and perhaps a greater prize Riga sitting behind you a piece of history.â€
“Do you have Goliath Scorpion blood in you Quineg? Aemelia asked in a rare joke raising her hand quickly to forestall Evangeline’s response she continued. “And your Khanate and Clan remain strong as well she said the Sea Foxes were making strides forward especially following their recent deal with the Jade Falcons for their Jade Lion-class Battle-cruiser. “I hear your Khanate has financed a WarShip, quiaff?†She revealed showing the Mandrill intelligence assets were not completely dead the Steelsoul Khanate had only begun building a Carrack-class Transport ship but it would increase the number of WarShips directly available to them.
The other woman gave her a graceful bow. “What can I say? The Rim Collection is a more then fair trading partner and we have had some recent successes of our own.â€
Aemelia smirked she had heard of their battle against the Faulk Khanate, the Sea Foxes strongest Khanate, which won their Steelsoul’s a year’s production from Twycross’ primary production facility. “One which I think we can strengthen during this meeting between us.†She said trying to bring the Galaxy Commander back to today’s meeting.
“You have my attention,†answered the younger Warrior after taking a moment to study Aemelia she had not expected the Fire Mandrill leader to be so well informed about the Steelsoul’s recent activities.
“I wish to transform our battered Riga into a York,†the Mandrill Khan responded, waving to the ship outside as she did so.
Galaxy Commander Evangeline Clarke’s eyebrows narrowed. “Your stunt at Kaumberg not only brought peace with the Lyran Commonweath it reminded the Grand Council of your Clan’s survival and that of your dezgra allies,†she warned Aemelia. “Reminded it enough the Khans of the Jade Falcons, Coyotes, and Hell’s Horses were very close in demanding you Abjured from what my Khan informed me.†The Mandrills were not part of the core Clan society but they had never been officially cast out by the Clans that now resided in the Inner Sphere “If I push forward for Clipperton to rebuild your new Riga as a York, there would be dire repercussions to both our Clans the Wolves already cast hungry eyes towards the remaining shipyards there.â€
“There goes another decade my Clan will have to keep itself from partaking in Clan society,†she lamented she dreamed, no that was the wrong word, the Jaguar inside her desired to see her Clan back within Clan society as a respected member of Kerensky’s followers her Mandrill side reminded her that they were strong enough to rise alone if required. “Still, you can rest easy. Clan Fire Mandrill and the Collection will do the rebuilding, not Clan Sea Fox.â€
Evangeline was confused. If Clan Fire Mandrill was rebuilding its Riga and did not need her Khanate’s assistance, then why did she infer they did? She was using the Riga as bait and testing her, she realized, as the other woman began speaking.
“I thank you for telling me what I will be facing in the future, Galaxy Commander.†She said leaving that discussion for the future “now I must ask for yet another boon,†the Fire Mandrill Khan continued, the formerly friendly atmosphere now a startling serious one. “I need immediate HPG conference with the entirety of the Grand Council, as well as the Mountain Wolves.â€
Evangeline sucked her breath in, startled. “I just warned you-,†she was cut off again by Aemelia’s raised hand Evangeline felt like breaking the old woman’s hand she had a tolerance for the Fire Mandrill leader but there were limits.
“I know. Yet what I must tell the Grand Council is something I feel is a potent threat to all the Clans, not just my own,†Aemelia responded. “A Society cell was found in Clan Sphinx Raptor and was the cause of the Free Collection movement and instigating the current tension between the Collection and the Lyrans.â€
It dawned on Evangeline just how major the situation was. If a Society cell survived within the Raptors “dezgra†she said under her breath hundreds of Sea Fox warriors and millions of civilians had died in the homeworlds millions more were unaccounted for. The Serpents had charged into the Inner Sphere running from the Society’s rule of the Homeworlds the Clan Council had yet to decide how they would respond each of the Clans had captured Serpent warriors or civilians each of them had heard the stories of what was happening on their ancestral home.
“I see you know the seriousness of the situation. I trust I will have a HPG conference with the Grand Council to show the evidence, quiaff?†The elderly Khan of the Mandrills queried.
Evangeline nodded resolutely “you will and if this is a power play by your Clan it will pay the ultimate price.†She warned even she would be forced to turn on the Mandrills should this ‘evidence’ turn out to be false but the chance of evidence on the Society being anywhere near the Inner Sphere was an immediate cause for concern among them. While Clan Fire Mandrill was considered on the supreme edge of what was considered the accepted Clans, even past the Mountain Wolves, it was still Clan and the Society was the anathema to them all.
“Give me two days, Khan,†she firmly answered and turned to leave.
The Fire Mandrill Khan had her conference in less than twelve hours.
HPG Conference
Clan Space, Inner Sphere
12th September 3101
The screens lit up across the Inner Sphere and near Periphery as the Khans of the Clans assembled for this meeting called by the Khan of Clan Sea Fox Hanna Coston. The Sea Fox Khan was first to speak and she did not look happy she had been pushed into calling this conference by Khanate leader Galaxy Commander Evangeline Clarke and she did not like it. “My fellow Khans today I call you to hear startling evidence that could threaten all of our Clans.†She said she saw the disdain from Clan Wolf leader Amina Kerensky and from Ruel Chistu the Khan of the Jade Falcons even the Coyotes and Horses who normally listened to each Khan thoughtfully looked annoyed. The recently hostile Nova Cats, the Snow Ravens and placid Rasalhague Dominion looked completely uninterested in the Sea Fox leader. Off to one side isolated from the others was Khan Patrick Fetladral of the Mountain Wolves who despite his agreement with the Wolf Clan to give up on his Clan’s Exile tag may as well have still been classed as an Exile by the other leaders.
“What is the dezgra doing here?†Ruel Chistu demanded the recent Mountain Wolf strikes against Jade Falcon territory raising the Khan’s disdain for the Mountain Wolf leader.
“At my request this information she holds affects all Clan societies.â€
“Dezgra†Ruel said again dismissively
“My fellow Khans allow me to present Khan Aemelia Showers of the Fire Mandrills†Hanna Coston said speaking again despite her disagreement with Evangeline Clarke regarding this announcement the reaction from the other Clans was quite enjoyable and very predictable. From every screen the shock rapidly turned to anger the majority directed at the newly appeared Showers but now even towards Hanna Coston herself she knew her Sea Foxes would pay for today in small ways.
“Leaders of the Great Clans†Aemelia Showers began respectfully speaking to the other leaders she saw that this made little to no impact on the Khans. “I am sure that some of you were aware of my peoples survival†she said seeing a smirk from both Jade Falcon and Wolf leaders confirming her suspicion “what you may not be fully aware of is that we Mandrills took in survivors from the Serpents assault forces.†She saw the anger rising even further among the Clans “these survivors were warriors and civilians mainly from the Truscott Bloodline of Clan Star Adder…â€
“I warn you now you had better not bring a dezgra Adder in front of this Council. If you do annihilation will be brought down on you.†Khan Teresia Cooper of the Hell’s Horses warned interrupting the Mandrill leader.
“Neg, these people reorganized themselves along the lines of the Sphinx Raptors attempting to break from what their Clan had become and start a new.â€
“A history lesson is not what we need†Amina Kerensky said interrupting Aemelia Showers bit the inside of her mouth ignoring the anger she felt towards their interruptions they would not do this to each other she was sure of it.
“A history lesson puts what has happened in context Khan Kerensky†Aemelia snapped “the Sphinx Raptors looked after their own affairs within the Rim Collection until the nuclear explosion on All Dawn in May of this year which claimed both leaders of the Sphinx Raptors. Since then they have been overseen by members of the Fire Mandrills until a Trial of Position can be held to elect new leadership.â€
“One hobbled Clan looking after another it is the end of the universe… wait doesn’t that describe you Clan Khan Carl Heller? A hobbled Clan that was sheltered by the Wolves for so long†Ruel Chistu snarked quietly.
“I will show you how hobbled we are†Carl Heller promised the Jade Falcon leader “Khan Showers continue before your presence here starts a war.†Heller demanded looking directly at the Fire Mandrill leader.
“During this administration period members of my Watch and members of the Sphinx Raptors loyal to Clan ideals have discovered a Society cell hidden within their ranks. I bring this to your attention because I know that each of you have accepted members of the Serpents into your ranks.†She said she knew that the Nova Cats and Mountain Wolves were the only two Clans to have no known members of the Society but after her investigations Showers was sure they were all in danger of infiltration.
“I assume you have proof of this “Society†infiltration Quiaff?†Ragnar Magnesson demanded
“Aff†Aemelia Showers said grabbing another figure from her side moments later a woman with olive coloured skin, dark hair and a bloodied face appeared “this is Dr Christine Adams.†She said angrily holding the woman by the scruff of the neck “I have confirmed that this is the leader the Society Cell she has a mix of Clan Star Adder and Steel Viper DNA.†She revealed gaining all their attentions the mixing of blood between Clans was an uncommon thing while her surname was a trend the scientists had begun across all the Clans but one that had been stamped out by the Warrior Caste. “Proof of her heritage will be sent to each of you following this conference.†She promised the other leaders “through persuasive interrogation we have confirmed that members of her cell planted the nuclear device on All Dawn and were involved in the Free Collection movement within the Rim Collection. I would advise that each of your Watch organisations check your Serpent bondsmen and scientific castes we also discovered that four members of the Fire Mandrill Scientific Castes were involved with the Society. These people have not gone away I thank you for listening seyla†she said cutting the feed allowing the others to discuss her message no doubt they would also discuss the Fire Mandrills and Sphinx Raptors survival as well.
Meanwhile here on All Dawn Dr Christine Adams would be kept safely under lock and key until the Sphinx Raptors were fully investigated, the Sphinx Raptor military forces, as small as it was, had so far not tried to resist the Fire Mandrill occupation of their territory. The Sphinx Raptor military forces had also accepted her commands in watching for Stone Spirit military maneuvers.
Psychological Examination, Black Den Training Base
Brunswick, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th September 3101
After six months of enforced leave Leftenant Christopher Grant sat on the psychologists couch waiting for his chance to return to duty. Due to the events in the Pirate Cluster he had been ordered to take time off time off which he had done a lot of thinking before he had gone to the Pirate Cluster he was content with the Rabid Fox he got to play with the best toys and got the most challenging missions but recently he’d wondered if there was more to things. Behind him the door opened Christopher moved to stand up but the voice quickly stopped him “please don’t get up remain where you are.†She said Christopher remained in position.
“How are you today Christopher?†She asked remaining out of his view
“Good ready to get back to work†he said
“No hard feelings about returning to duty? She asked
“Noneâ€
“Ready to die for country and for Davion†she asked her accent was not one from the Federated Suns Christopher guessed it was almost from Skye in the Lyran Commonwealth.
“I am ready to fight†he said
“But fight for what and for who?†She asked finally moving in front of him she was a beautiful woman within long blonde hair and professional looking glasses. She was dressed in a work suit with the top two buttons of her shirt open revealing a little cleavage. He knew that was intended to catch people’s eyes and then she could catch them making them uncomfortable.
“I am ready to fightâ€
“Come now Chris you are not a robot solider like other that fight for Davion†she said her eyes seemingly seeing through him “the losses of your team and the others in your unit in the Pirate’s Cluster could not have been an easy loss.â€
“Casualties of War†he said bluntly
“Including McKenna Wilde?†She asked again he knew what she wanted she wanted an out of the ordinary reaction that would reveal something. He decided to be honest and see how she reacted.
“She was let down by her partner†Christopher said “and she died doing her duty.â€
“And her partner?†She asked
“He died in the line of duty†he said as he spoke the woman in front of him reached into his pocket pulling out a small device tossing it to him.
“How did he really die?†She asked Christopher looked at the device carefully it looked like a jury rigged jamming device he realized her accent was even more Scots-German than before. He glanced up at her and noticed that she had removed her glasses and pulled the blonde wig from her head revealing long red hair tied back in a pony tail now he didn’t know what the hell was going on.
“He fell into a pit of quicksand†Christopher said revealing more than he had before “and I watched him die. He allowed McKenna Wilde to die and deserved the slow death that he got.â€
“He was a soldier of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns a brother in arms!â€
“He let a member of my team die he deserved what he got. You are not the proscribed psychologist?†He said
“No what gave me away?†She said half-seriously
“Your confrontational attitude, the disguise, this†he said holding the device towards her “and the questions about things already recorded.â€
“It’s a psychologist’s job to ask questions†she answered “as for the disguise outside a small number of people you are the first in quite sometime to see me like this.†She said sitting down opposite him “let me tell you what I think about you Christopher Grant. You are a man who once believed in the supremacy of Davion but as time has gone by you’ve questioned the point of being one of the drones of the “Great Houses†since the Pirate’s Cluster you’ve been looking into mercenary work but so far you haven’t taken the step towards handing in your commission.†She said “you came to this meeting thinking that you could get back to work and put all these doubts behind you but you know that it won’t work.†She said releasing her red hair from its ponytail “for people like us you get to a point where you break and you can’t go back.â€
“People like us? I’m no psychologistâ€
“Nor am I†she said “I’m a fighter like you are, like McKenna Wilde was, my name is Aoife O’Kyan.†She said quietly it was a name she hadn’t publicily used in many years. “I wouldn’t bother searching your brain for it Chris it wasn’t well known when it was used.â€
“Why would I care?â€
“I have a job offer for you. If you want adventure it is one that you will never forget but you must be ready to let go of everything you think you know.†She said “but you need to take the first step and solve this little challenge†she said passing him a small piece of paper “enjoy.†She said stepping passed him leaving the room despite still being out of her disguise she didn’t seem to care.
Christopher slowly unfolded the paper note and read the message then read it for a second time to be sure of what it said finally he folded the note back up and put it in his pocket before leaving the room. According to his file he had passed his examination and he was cleared for duty now he just needed to decide if he wished to follow his additional order it could easily be a test by the Rabid Fox watching to see how far he had fallen or it could be an opportunity to forge his own path.
Border Skirmish
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
18th September 3101
The Isle of Skye Armed Forces attempt to counter Clan Wolf’s push into their territory by striking at Uhuru and Rochelle attempting to wrest these two worlds from Clan Wolf. They find a stronger defence than they were expecting and are quickly forced back to their DropShips and out of the system. The Wolves then retaliate against the Isle of Skye striking against Rahne, Fianna and New Kyoto. The Wolves take no additional territory instead they show that they are not willing to allow incursions in the systems they have taen without reprisal attacks.
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Clan Homeworlds Update 3101
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/intelligence-report-clan-homeworlds-update-3101/msg40201/#msg40201 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/intelligence-reports/intelligence-report-clan-homeworlds-update-3101/msg40201/#msg40201)
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Into October my thanks to James Tanaga for the continued development into the remains of Clan Fire Mandrill
Sphinx Raptor Pyramid, Clan Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
1st October, 3101
Khan Aemelia Showers walked through the small step pyramid that served as the Sphinx Raptor’s primary base on All Dawn, escorted by a full point of Sphinx Raptor Elementals in their legacy Corona battle armor. The barren corridors of the pyramid served to remind her how small the Raptors were compared to her own Mandrills. The pyramid, gifted to the Raptors by her Clan, could house upwards to five hundred thousand civilians of all Castes, yet here, she had not seen any of the Raptors own. Not one. And that worried her. The Raptors held the worlds of Ceram and Harlez which Aemelia knew they had constructed factories and training bases there but surely not all their civilians had been left on those backwaters too?
What was a Clan’s worth without its lower castes? That was a question she often asked the many Warrior sibkos within her Clan, and even the Raptors own since their arrival into the Collection, to highlight the importance of the lower castes were to them, often before sending the munchkins to spend the day helping the lower castes. It was a common assignment within her Clan that served to connect the Warrior Caste with the lower castes. It was that connection to its lower castes that served to unite the Mandrills with the Rim Collection, she reflected.
It no longer was Clan, was her answer to the munchkins. Without the lower castes, the Warrior Caste would be nothing but a shadow of what a Clan was supposed to be. And as she followed the lead Warrior, it confirmed this belief to her.
A sudden stab of pain in her chest forced her to stumble. Leaning against the wall, she cursed her own weak heart. Yet there was nothing she could do about it now. “I am alright,†she mumbled loudly as she pushed herself from the wall, her chest still burnt with stabbing pain.
She would persevere, as she always did. Or die. It was the way of the Clans, she knew. The Sphinx Raptors around her began escorting her once again, as the Jaguar within was humiliated by her show of weakness, yet the Mandrill was proud she had continued with her mission.
Soon, they made it to the comm room and she was let in. She was sweating now and her left arm began to tingle. Perhaps it was her time to go, she reflected. Not yet, she decided not a moment later, for the faces and holoimages of Sphinx Raptor Warriors looking at her in concern reminded she was here on a mission. To keep the Raptors within the Collection was her mission, and she would complete it, even if her damn body dropped dead right after.
She brought herself up, her now-aching back straight, her chest now painfully reminding the aging Warrior her time was near. She ignored it, determined to show the pride she had as a Warrior.
“You honor this old monkey with your presence, Warriors of Clan Sphinx Raptor,†she iterated.
“We honor a Warrior who stood side by side with us even when she not needed to,†answered one, a Star Colonel wearing the badge of the Second Raptor Calvary. Star Colonel Jonathan Banacek, one of Dante’s closest followers, she idly noted. “The very same who saved us when she did not need to,†the man reminded the others.
“Yet a monkey all the same,†rebutted another, a female this time. Aemelia flicked her eyes to study the other woman. Galaxy Commander Laura Truscott of the Raptor’s Kappa CCT, she decided after seeing a badge belonging to the Kappa CCT along with the woman’s rank.
Aemelia saw the battle lines now. Banacek would likely support staying within the Collection as a Mandrill, yet held only a minor bloodname, as far as the Raptors were concerned. Laura held the right bloodname and her rebuke likely meant she would instead support for fleeing the Collection, as per the Raptor’s right. Aemelia knew she would need to find a supporter with the Truscott name to succeed her mission.
Laura Truscott confirmed this belief a second later, as she theatrically raised her hand towards Aemelia. “We may hold a debt to her. Yet that debt does not mean our Clan should lay down and die like the other Clans would demand us of. â€
Aemelia’s eyes darted through the crowd as many of the Raptors bloodnamed Warriors supported the Galaxy Commander. A sharp pain stabbed her heart, causing her to nearly black out, as she grabbed her chest. Damn body, she once again cursed. She forced herself to return to the matter at hand.
“We run, we survive. We fight, we die,†the other woman continued on.
“Yet our Clan brought this upon ourselves, Galaxy Commander,†Jonathan Banacek reminded everyone sharply. Aemelia inhaled, forcing air into her now-aching lungs. “We brought the dezgra Society to the doorstep of the Inner Sphere. They caused thousands of deaths and brought us to war twice with the Lyrans.â€
“The Society did so, not us!†the other Sphinx Raptor exclaimed with anger.
“Yet it was us that brought the Society cell into the Inner Sphere, jeopardizing not only ourselves, but our allies as well,†another male voice reminded the angry Galaxy Commander. Star Commodore Eric Truscott, commander of the Raptor’s sole warship, the Elysium, she noted, licking her now-suddenly dry lips. “Perhaps even all of the Inner Sphere.â€
She was lightheaded and began to weave. Aemelia did notice nearly as many Warriors seemed to agree with the Star Commodore though, which was good. He continued. “By Clan Law, that is more than enough for a Trial of Absorption to be declared.â€
Laura snorted. “By Clan Law, we should have been absorbed countless times over, Star Commodore,†she commented dryly. “And yet here we stand.â€
“And yet here we stand,†rebuked the Star Commodore.
“And yet here we stand,†Aemelia rejoined, turning all eyes to the now sweating Mandrill. “We stand together or not at all. The other Clans will declare Clan Fire Mandrill dezgra and yours to be Annihilated when my Clan and the Collection allow yours to depart in peace,†she retorted to the crowd of Raptors as she begun to see stars.
“You and your Clan would allow us to depart in peace,†Laura Truscott asked, in shock.
Battling through the now-crippling pain in her chest and numb arm, she nodded. “My Clan and the Collection swore an oath to yours upon your arrival into the Collection. And I stand by that oath, until my dying breath,†she answered.
She saw many studying her more closely. “As you stand right now, quiaff,†asked Jonathan Banacek after a moment. She knew he was implying she was on death’s door. She nodded to him
“Aff,†she wheezed back. “Until my dying breath,†she wheezed again. “Here I stand,†she forced herself from wheezing as she sent a challenging glare to the assembled Warriors, forcing her body to give in to her will. “Here I stand,†she again rejoined, now feeding on the tired determination and the resolution of the Fire Mandrill within her as never before, “Until my dying breath. I swore the same oath to the Collection as all of you. My Clan swore the same oath as yours. A sacred oath to defend the Collection and each other and I stand by that oath even now, when it would be far easier to do as the other Clans demand and Annihilate you. To my dying breath, I stand loyal to my oath,†she spat out before coughing out blood.
As the other Warriors looked upon one another or kept their gaze on her, she felt her body give out. Landing on the floor, she forced herself up on her knees and looked through the eyes of the Warriors around her. Many showed concern, yet many others looked upon her stoically. As proper Warriors watching the noble death of one of their own, she realized belatedly.
It was then the pride and ferocity of the Smoke Jaguar within her finally pass away. The tired, determined Mandrill within gave a sharp victorious howl before it too left her. Aemelia followed soon thereafter, her body hitting the floor.
No one spoke for minutes after ward, too shock and in awe of the dead Warrior. It was Jonathan Banacek who recovered first.
“To this day and to the last, to my dying breath, I stand ready to protect the Collection from all threats, here I stand,†he vowed, all the while staring down Galaxy Commander Laura Truscott.
One by one, he was joined by other Warriors, who recited his vow. Soon, Star Colonel Justine Truscott, one of Laura’s most ardent supporters took the vow. “To this day and to the last, to my dying breath, I stand ready to protect the Collection from all threats, here I stand,†she reverently recited.
Laura’s eyes darted to her remaining supporters as they too began to recite the now sacred vow Jonathan Banacek had begun. “I refuse to be a damn vermin Monkey!†she screamed at Banacek.
“Then die,†he calmly answered back, his voice steel. “Point Commander Cho, get this dezgra out of here and held until I can properly dispose of her in a Trial of Grievance.â€
“You will be the one to die, vermin!†she screamed at him as two of the Corona-suited Elementals began making their way to her.
“Perhaps, Galaxy Commander. Yet you will die eventually. We all do, as Khan Showers’ death just now reminds us,†Star Commodore Eric Truscott answered, waving a hand to the Monkey Khan’s corpse.
“Seyla,†Justine Truscott gave her support. All around them, their fellow Warriors nodded or replied similarly.
Seeing no support remaining in her fellow Warriors, all fight left the Sphinx Raptor Warrior, and she allowed herself to be dragged from the room.
A moment of silence intruded into room following Laura Truscott’s eviction, as the Warriors within took stock of the abrupt change they had just endured. Walking to Aemelia’s body, Jonathan Banacek knelt down, brushing the dead woman’s grey hair with a hand. “Loyal to her oath, she stood defiant to her death. And gave us our sacred charge,†he spoke reverently as he looked upon her body.
“Seyla,†spoke first one, then another, of his fellow Warriors around him, until finally only he remained.
“Seyla,†he whispered reverently, as he begun to pick up the old Warriors body.
Cassandra, Clan Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
6th October, 3101
Jonathan Banacek stood with his arms cross as the HPG was activated. Khan Natasha Faraday sat in a chair slightly in front of him. Soon, the holoimage of the Loremaster of the Clans Zane Carns appeared. Jonathan felt the glare the older man gave him and Natasha; one he returned with full strength.
“Who are you and where is Khan Showers?†he demanded Zane Carns was not a young man but both of them could see the fire of youth still burned inside him.
“Killed in honorable combat during the Trial of Absorption against Clan Sphinx Raptor, Loremaster,†his new Khan reported succinctly. Jonathan would have rolled his eyes if not for the importance of the cover story. “Following her death, I was selected as the new Khan of Clan Fire Mandrill. I am Khan Natasha Faraday. You and the Grand Council will be dealing with me and saKhan Jonathan Banacek until we die or are replaced by others more capable of the position.â€
“Banacek. That is a dezgra Serpent Bloodname. Your Clan was to deal with them,†he commented as he studied them Zane’s inference was that the Mandrills should have annihilated the remaining Serpent presence to ensure no Society elements remained.
“Khan Showers changed the order to a Trial of Absorption, Loremaster and took full responsibility for her actions,†Natasha informed the Nova Cat Warrior. “We will carry out the order when the Great Clans do so as well,†she answered the unasked question.
“It would seem a bit hypocritical of your Clan to annihilate your former Serpent Warriors, when they themselves did not,†he acknowledged. “Admirable. Still, you make no friends and strengthen your enemies with this change to the Council’s demands, Khan. The Falcons, Horse, and Wolves in particular will want your blood even more.â€
“Good thing they have to make it past either the Lyrans or the Spirits to get to us, quiaff,†Jonathan baited the man.
“I doubt the Spirits are that much of a threat, saKhan,†the Nova Cat dismissed the Spirits. “Still, your remark, though baited, is valid concerning the Lyrans. Are you sure you want to do this, quiaff,†he asked a moment later, gazing intently to Natasha.
Natasha turned to Jonathan and both met each other’s gaze before turning to meet Zane Carns’ own.
“Aff, Loremaster. It is. Here we stand,†was her simple answer, paying homage to the deceased Aemelia Showers.
The older man sighed “very well.†He said pausing for a moment looking at the Mandrill leader “Khan Faraday understand this you were not abjured by the Clans of this Council however you were part of a system that caused us to take the act to form our own Council abandoning our Homeworlds†he said even though the Nova Cats had been one of the first Clans to fully abandon the Homeworlds it seemed that Zane still had desires on the worlds that had birthed the Clans. “I will not stop you attending future Grand Councils however ensure you have very valid reasons for being there. Otherwise I believe it would be best for your Clan that you keep your attendance to a minimum and your heads low†he advised it riled Natasha Faraday that the Loremaster thought he could talk to her like that.
“We are Clan…†Jonathon Banacek began before being silenced by the deadly gaze of the Loremaster.
“Aff you show the honour of the Clans but not…†he paused for a moment finding the right word “not the self reliance.â€
“Could you be more precise Loremaster, Quiaff?†Natasha Faraday said questioning his words her Clan, yes her Clan, she thought poudly were more than self reliant.
“Your relationship with the Rim Collection will be honoured by some but questioned by others. You will find allies among the Clans but also enemies both of which will see your standing in the Collection in different ways.†He explained the conservative Wardens would see the Mandrills working with the Rim Collection as forfillment of prophecy of the Clans working with the Inner Sphere to bring fourth a new Golden Age. The aggressive Crusader would see the Mandrills are holding onto the periphery state to survive despite their successes against the Lyran Commonwealth.
“As it has always been†Natasha replied the Council was never a friendly environment “the other Clans will soon learn that… the Rim Kindraa makes my Clan stronger.†She said using an old term which the other Clans would understand well.
“You must have the blood of Cassandra Faraday running though your veins Quiaff? It is a term that she would have used.†Zane Carns said laughing in reply.
“She was my sibko’s gene-mother†Nathasha Faraday confirmed.
“She serves you well†Zane said finally terminating the link between them.
Jonathon’s gaze soon returned to his Khan’s and saw her own looking upon him. “So depite our sacrifices we remain the pariah of the Clans alongside the Mountain Wolves, though marginally in a better position then they since we can attend the Grand Council meetings, though it would be much safer if we keep it to a minimum.†He said mocking the Loremaster’s words “better that then being as pariah as the Spirits, quineg,†he joked with his new Khan.
“I doubt the other Clans will ever consider the Spirits a Clan again after the orbital bombardment to your former Clan on York,†she answered him outing that matter to rest. “Watch your tongue in the future†she said referring to his interruption of the Loremaster “less I personally cut it out of your skull,†she threatened him. “Our Clan is much too open to our enemies in the Grand Council for you or any other Warrior to be lobbing insults like that around and putting targets on our backs. Kerensky knows we have a large enough one already,†she grumbled before getting up and leaving him alone in the room.
Planning Hall, Marik Palace
Marik, United Marik Worlds
9th October 3101
“Sire, you cannot be serious†Governess Anita Coleman of the Public Spending Commission said looking at the plans that Captain-General Joseph Marik had proposed.
“You do not think that a good defence is what we need?†He asked part of his plan was to fortify nearly a dozen United Marik Worlds with fortifications similar to that of a Castle Brian which had been employed by the Star League Defence Force during the original Star League-era.
“It is not that†she said carefully “the expense of these fortifications to build and to run we could build so much more Mechs, vehicles, fighters and personal weapons."
“Conventional defences are not enough to bottleneck our enemies not will they protect our citizens from naval or nuclear bombardment should the old ways return.†Joseph stressed he was concerned that the Capellans or Lyrans would resort to such tactics in the future.
“The Star League won’t allow it†she said Anita Coleman was a strong believer in the reborn league.
“I do not believe they would support such actions either but the Star League Defence Force cannot be everywhere at once and words do not stop naval autocannon fire.†He said defiantly
“Then there is the second part†she said even more carefully “what you propose just is not possible†she as defiant as he was being.
“Really?â€
“Washburn already has a capital city in New Chicago. We would be best to focus on words that are in need of greater infrastructure or improving the cities that need it.â€
“New Chicago is a joke†Joseph snapped “for decades the leaders of that planet have run it down and filled their pockets with the money while unemployment and crime has spiraled out of control. No more†he revealed “as of this morning I am making Washburn the personal property of the Marik family. An act that will be rectified by parliament this afternoon your structural engineers can move in anytime they wish I want local workers to provide manpower for the project.†He said his plan was to build an entirely new capital city nearly forty kilometres from New Chicago. The city would be based on Salt Lake City on old Terra and be a new capital to the planet and to his faith in the Free Worlds League.
“But Washburn is right on the Wolf border we could invest in the world and then lose it!â€
“Which is why we will be fortifying Washburn as part of our other project†Joseph pointed out “we will also be purchasing dozens of Oriente Orbital Guns as part of the military budget for future system defence.â€
“You will break our budget for the next one hundred years with these plans†she warned.
“Negative we will implement these changes over the span of years I do not expect you to complete these changes this year or in five years." He said throwing out a number "we will move forward within our own means.†He promised her.
“There will be opposition to your plans.â€
“And I will refute them.†Joseph promised again these were the first changes he would make in his rule as Captain-General but they would not be his last. Soon he would leave for Terra and the Star League Conference and there he would show that his nation without Stewart family influences would be a positive influence on the Star League.
AFFS Reinforcements
Broden, Andurien Commonality
Capellan Confederation
10th October 3101
Following the defection of a civilian trade JumpShip in Jacson system detailing the destruction that was being wrought on Broden by the Capellan Confederation’s Armed Forces in an effort to destroy the First Kathil Uhlans an AFFS ground force supported by the FSS Jackson Davion, an Avalon Block II-class Cruiser, and the Foundation Industries owned WarShip Vidar, a Riga-class Frigate, from Sirdar enters the system. From the orbit of the planet Capellan Pocket WarShips attempt to engage the incoming AFFS units with nuclear tipped capital missiles however these are stopped by the anti-missile systems deployed by the Federated Suns Naval WarShip and escorting DropShips. The AFFS and mercenary units smash through the Capellan blockade and force their way to the planet.
On short notice the AFFS had only been able deploy the Tenth and Eleventh Syrtis Fusiliers LCTs to the planet supporting them were the New Hessen Armoured Scouts Regiement off of Sirdar. Fortunately the Kathil Uhlans had already secured much of the planet and there was little resistance to the newly arriving forces the New Hessen Armoured Scouts provide the majority of the firepower for the assault as the reinforcement’s steamroll over the defenders freeing the Uhlans. With all Capellan Confederation forces in the system eliminated by the Federated Suns are left in control of the planet as the people had suffered with his unit and helped many Uhlans survive the Capellan bombardment Colonel Richard Steiner pushes for AFFS aid to be deployed to the system to assist the population as winter begins to hit the northern hemisphere. Over the coming weeks additional Federated Suns and Star League aid arrives on the planet to assist the population.
Trials of Possession
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
25th October 3101
In an effort to take Clan Jade Falcon’s attention off of Donegal and Tharkad and onto their own defence Clan Mountain Wolf launch four Trials of Possession against Zandera, Esteros, A Place and Morges. In the Morges system they deploy their entire Alpha Galaxy and Clan flagship Werewolf, a McKenna-class Battleship, all commanded by Khan Even Kell himself.
In the system they found the Silver Talon, a Nightlord II-class Battleship, and three clusters of Jade Falcon troops. While Alpha Galaxy is able to reach the planet the Werewolf and Silver Talon engage at extreme ranges. Over the course of eight days the Mountain Wolves secure the planet and the Werewolf cripples the Silver Talon but not at great cost the Werewolf is heavily damaged and the Second Wolf Legion Cluster is completely destroyed. The Jade Falcon ground forces accept Hegira and withdraw from the system pulling back into the Jade Falcon occupation zone with the crew of the Silver Talon abandoning the crippled hulk.
Unfortunately in the other systems that the Mountain Wolves had struck were able to resist the Wolf assault holding position costing the Wolves another two clusters of ground forces in failed assaults.
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Fourteenth Whitting Conference, Whitting Conference Centre
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
9th November 3101
The leaders of the Star League had assembled once more to elect a new First Lord as the current leader, and host, Governor Bannister Cameron stood first looking around the other leader’s faces some had changed while others appeared as as youthful as they had been when they first came to this council while the Capellan Confederation’s chair still remained empty. “Welcome to Terra†he began “we are assembled today to elect a new First Lord. Each of you are eligible to become First Lord of this Star League.†He said formally looking around the eight other leaders faces. “During my time as First Lord I must say that I felt a great sense of pride I am the first member of my bloodline to hold this position since Richard Cameron II.†He said pausing for a moment remembering the last member of his family who had held the position. Bannister was a cousin to the ruling line and had disagreed with Richard’s views on Stephan Amaris resulting in his exile to the periphery he would never have been First Lord in the first Star League era a twist of fate, and the SLS Wasp’s adventure through time, had landed him here today with these lords. “My time as First Lord has seen the Star League move from strength to strength and seen the support given to your member states increase to levels beyond those previously achieved.†He said prodly “we’ve seen the Kittery Prefecture become a stabilizing element between the Federated Suns and Capellan Confederation and Commanding-General Victor Focht has another special announcement to make.†He said stepping to one side as a younger man assumed the the podium for those who knew him there was an unmistakable facial resemblance to Anastasius Focht with piercing blue eyes and blonde hair.
“Lords of the Star League, I have worked tirelessly with the commanders of the Star League Defence Force to continue Archer Christifori’s work to strengthen our ground and naval forces.†He said proudly “we have also worked on further fortifying and protecting the worlds of the Inner Sphere from all threats both foreign and domestic.†The Commanding-General announced recently a spate of terrorist strikes had shaken Star League Protectorate holdings and Star League Defence Force held assets. “I would like to inform you all that with Federated Suns leader First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and with the cooperation of the Rasalhague Dominion engineers from all three states have begun to move the ruins of the Focht War College on Tukayyid to Kentares IV. This facility will be built by the Star League and by the Federated Suns and once it is open it will be open to applicants from across the Inner Sphere and periphery. As part of the agreement visitors from the Rasalhague Dominion will also be allowed to attend this facility under the escort and protection of the SLDF.†He announced there was a rumble from around the room specifically from Warlord Minoru Kurita and his advisers at the Draconis Combine table recent border skirmishes between the Combine and the Rasalhague Dominion had begun to increase once more putting many in danger. “In an effort to increase our security I have one last announcement to make today†he said from the five doors behind the succession lords stepped several officers all dressed in the uniform of the Northwind Highlanders Mercenary Brigade. “As of the beginning of next year the Northwind Highlanders Brigade will no longer be a mercenary command instead they will form the core of the Northwind Division which will be fully headquartered on Northwind and by agreement will be commanded by officers of Northwind descent. These units will maintain the highest traditions of the Northwind Highlanders and of the Star League Defence Force.†He said publicly announcing that the Highlanders would remain in command of their armed forces. This shock announcement rippled through the chamber at this announcement the Highlanders homeworld was well within the Star League Protectorate and had been for years but the regiments had stuck by their mercenary routes five regiments of hardened troops joining the Star League Defence Force added significant firepower to their already considerable arsenal.
Around the table few others spoke instead Governor Bannister Cameron once again spoke “there are no further announcements from the Star League to be made at this council is there any further business any of you wish to discuss?†He asked glancing around the room Prime Minister Allison Kanning of the Outer League Alliance and Captain-General Joseph Marik of the United Marik Worlds, the newest members of the council, remained silent not being around long enough to gain enemies at the council. Of the other leaders Erik Martens Calderon, Protector of the Taurian Concordat, looked most interested in the proceedings despite having little to no chance of becoming First Lord. “If there is nothing further then I will call for a vote. I will nominate and vote for Warlord Minoru Kurita of the Draconis Combine as a founding member of this council and as a supporter of Star League Defence Force operations.†He said nodding to Minoru Kurita out of respect.
“I will accept thank you Governor Bannister Cameron-san.†He said standing bowing slightly before retaking his seat.
“The Taurian Concordat will also support the Draconis Combine we share Clan enemies on our borders working together is out best chance at resisting their threat.†Erik Martens-Calderon said standing briefly his hand stroking his beard briefly before he sat back down.
“The Outer League Alliance will support Captain-General Jonas Halas of the Oriente Protectorate to become First Lord.†Allison Kanning said supporting the other former-Free Worlds League state.
“I will accept this nomination†Captain-General Jonas Halas said standing briefly nodding his thanks to the Prime Minister.
“I will also support this nomination†Captain-General Joseph Marik said speaking up for the first time at the council surprising the other leaders since the United Marik Worlds held both Marik and Atreus the worlds that once controlled the Free Worlds League and supporting Oriente would elevate them to a position that would gain more attention that Marik would gain.
“I will not support Oriente, unfortunately while we share borders with the Oriente Protectorate like your Marik Worlds†Ilsa Centrella said looking at Joseph Marik “our borders are not so peaceful. Instead I will support Warlord Kurita and pray that he will support the Star League’s principle of peace.†She said casting the Magistracy of Canopus’ vote.
“The vote stands at three to the Draconis Combine and Warlord Kurita and two to the Oriente Protectorate and Captain-General Jonas Halas.†Governor Bannister Cameron said looking at Victor Steiner-Davion “with two votes remaining†he said glancing at Archon Jessica Steiner; Victor’s niece and leader of the Lyran Commonwealth.
“I have held the position of First Lord four times†Victor Steiner-Davion said carefully as he rose to his feet. “But today I cannot bring myself to vote I hold the Star League with high regard and will support it fully it in the future.†He said retaking his chair.
“The Federated Suns abstains from voting†Bannister Cameron commented neutrally a null vote was not unheard of but as one of the strongest nations in the Star League Defence Force he would have preferred their support with a vote.
“The Lyran Commonwealth will also abstain from voting. To vote would result in a deadlock which would not be good for this council we do not need a military officer of the Star League Defence Force dictating who becomes our next First Lord.†Jessica Steiner said being the last to raise to her feet Bannister Cameron almost smiled her use of words supported the Star League Defence Force without casting a vote for either a Kurita or for a leader of the former-Free Worlds League. For a young member of this council she had shown a lot of maturity.
“With three votes to two and with abstentions from the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth Warlord Minoru Kurita is the fourteenth First Lord of this Star League Council.†Bannister announced
“I am honoured to accept this position I will serve this Star League and support it in anyway I can. Without further business I bring this session to an end.†Minoru Kurita said briefly before moving out the other members of the council quickly left the room as well ending the League conference.
Whitting Conference Centre, Davion Wing
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
9th November 3101
Leftenant Elle Cooper stepped up to First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion’s desk and saluted “sir the Lyran Archon sir†she reported.
“Thank you allow her in†Victor said moments later Archon Jessica Steiner entered the room and approached the desk Victor nodded towards Cooper dismissing her leaving him with the young Lyran leader “Archon†he greeted her.
“Uncle†she said far less formerly she was Peter’s daughter and it appeared that this was an informal visit “I wish to ask of you some advice.†She explained
“Careful†Victor said chuckling as he rose from his chair crossing to the side pouring a glass of dark liquid “drink? Northwind Scotch, I believe our hosts wished to rub in their recent coup.†He said she nodded and Victor poured a second glass. “Please†Victor said stepping towards Jessica he handed her the glass and indicated to a pair of comfortable chairs one of which Jessica selected and sat down on.
“Why should I be careful?†She asked Victor as he sat down opposite her.
“Asking the advice of Davion has caused all sort of trouble for those sitting on the chair that you do. Your father had the right idea ensure that you and your sister were Steiner’s first despite your heritage it cut you a little slack with the Lyran nobility.†He explained
“True†Jessica agreed “despite your Lyran education my people always did see you as my grandfather reborn†she said referring to Hanse Davion “but my father always respected your battle record especially your record against the Clans.â€
“Focus on the Clans cost me much in my younger days.†Victor admitted “they were a threat that I needed to see ended. I don’t think I would have done much differently.†He said glancing down for a moment then back to Jessica “how can I help?â€
“It is related to the Clans†Jessica said making it clear where her inquiry landed “the Lyran Commonwealth is threatened from every direction by the Clan menace we have three full Clans and the remains of two others on our borders.â€
“We all face the Clans†Victor said he had long ago given up trying to save everyone from the Clans his own nation had to watch for two of the quieter Clans in the Snow Ravens and Nova Cats but still they were a threat to his nation. “My advice in dealing with the Clans is don’t become too focused on them or on one of them deal with them in a case by case basis but don’t let them take over your life.†He said taking a sip from his glass feeling the liquid burning its way down his throat the Northwind Scotch was stronger then most other brands. “Otherwise you’ve done well so far your father would be proud of you.â€
“Thanks†she said quietly drinking some of her own drink “I miss them everyday†she admitted.
“You are not the only one†Victor said quietly he missed his sisters Yvonne and Katherine as well. Victor was one of the elder statesmen of the Inner Sphere with many of his contemporaries having passed away. He was glad to pass on some of what he learned to the new leaders of the Inner Sphere hoping that they might avoid some of the mistakes that he had made. “Don’t let your past define you.â€
“What do you mean?†She said more hostile.
“You were the youngest person in Lyran Commonwealth history to command a WarShip…â€
“And my name did not help†Jessica said interrupting
“You have fought enemies on all corners and have been victorious.†He said continuing “you met someone and married them despite them not being of noble blood†he said the Lyran nation was known for holding social class and money over ability. “And you were brave enough to have a child despite knowing…â€
“Don’t you dare do not say my son’s name do not even think about it!†Jessica shouted standing up from her chair staring at Victor “if you were not the First Prince I’d…â€
“You’d what!†Victor snapped standing up looking at her Victor was not a tall man but he was level with her in height “I’m not talking to you as the First Prince, Jessica, you made it abundantly clear that you wished to talk to your uncle so do what you want to do there will be no political incident there is only us here.†He challenged her Jessica stepped away towards the door she didn’t to fight him but she stopped short of the door “it is alright to be Archon, to love and to grieve all at the same time.†He said stepping closer to her “you do not need to be the pillar that hold’s a brave face for everyone you’ve had losses to the Clans and in your own life, Jessica, you are allowed to grieve to remember those you have lost. And it is alright for you to move forward with your life†he said Jessica shot him another angry look “and to plan for the future.†He said calmly
“What if I don’t know how?†She asked he could see tears on her cheeks Victor took another step forward placing his hands on her shoulder slowly Jessica turned into his arms and cried quietly into his shoulder.
“We all know how to grieve†Victor said quietly “its how quickly we get back up that is unique to each of us.†He continued “lean on your husband, lean on the family around you†he said the Steiner line was an extensive one it wouldn’t show weakness for her to call out for their support in fact it may even bring the nation together he though to himself. Jessica slowly pulled away wiping her tears from her eyes “maybe I’ll just come to New Avalon and give you a house guest.â€
“You and your husband would be more than welcome†Victor said chuckling.
“Thank you, uncle, thank you for listening and for your words†she said “I am sorry to have bothered you†she said motioning towards the door.
“Anytime†Victor said finally as Jessica pulled open the door and left his office. Victor crossed back across the room and picked up his glass before moving back to his desk sitting down continuing to look over his paperwork soon he would leave Terra and head home to the Federated Suns.
Leaving the office Archon Jessica Steiner did not head back towards the Steiner Wing of the Conference Centre instead she headed towards the centre’s dedicated spaceport and landing strip. There she boarded her personal Sternensturm OmniFighter and took to the skies over Unity City member state aircraft were only allowed to fly over certain areas of Unity City but that did not bother Jessica instead she ascended well above the planet below meeting up with a DropShip that waited for her. From orbit the DropShip headed back towards the waiting LCS Iron Fist which was at the Nadir point.
Pirate Hunting
Periphery near Magistracy of Canopus
14th November 3101
Following more than a year of investigations the Magistracy of Canopus’ Ebon Magistrate engage the pirate force that destroyed the Canopian Highlanders Regiment using a nuclear explosive. During the final assaults the Magistracy force deploys the Amazon Battle Armour suit for the first time in live combat. The suit is an improvement over almost every other medium battle suit deployed by the Inner Sphere and is able to keep pace with a Clan Elemental suit while also being able to take as much damage and deal significant damage against enemy targets with a configurable arm mounted weapons array and a lethal battle claw.
Supported from orbit by the MSC Canopus, a Feng Huang II-class Cruiser/Carrier, and the ship’s aerospace fighters the Ebon Magistrate do not let up against the pirate force pushing them from one stronghold to the next. Finally twelve hours after the pursuit had begun the Ebon Magistrate surround and destroy the pirate force the Canopian victors execute each of the surviving pirates leaving their bodies exposed to the elements on the planet as a message to anyone who would wrong the Magistracy.
Border Raid
Sherwood, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
24th November 3101
After being deployed in the Filtvelt Coalition for more than three years and observing Clan Nova Cat’s raids and “trials†against the local people the Federated Suns’s Sixth New Avalon Guards RCT take matters into their own hands and launch a raid against the Nova Cat held system of Sherwood. During their observations on the Clan raids the Sixth choose to follow the Clan’s bidding procedure during the attack winning nearly a company’s worth of Clan technology in the raid before leaving the system.
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The Hub, March Command Headquarters
District City, Kathil
Capellan March, Federated Suns
12th December 3101
Duchess Kym Hasek walked into the March Command Headquarters on Kathil around her men and women rose from their positions out of respect but she motioned for them to return to their work she was a Captain in the AFFS not someone who deserved such attention. Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek approached and she immediately saluted “Field Marshal†she said greeting him.
“Captain, welcome to The Hub.†He said glancing around the room around them it was not nearly as extravagant as The Cave had been on New Syrtis but it was still an impressive room.
“Not as nice as my cockpit†she said low enough for only them to hear “but at least it won’t feel too cozy in the near future.†She said moving her hands protectively over her belly.
“Congratulations by the way†he said Nathaniel had heard about his niece's pregnancy a few days before when Kym’s transfer had been confirmed she would serve in The Hub for the duration of her pregnancy.
“Thank you, I have a lot to hear about how this place works†she said
“And the people here are the best to teach you†Nathaniel said proudly “let’s get you two started.†He said with a wink guiding her into the room as the future leader of this March, both politically and militarily, this training would serve her well in the future.
Border skirmish
Rasalhague Dominion
25th December 3101
Following weeks of small scale battles the Draconis Combine attempts to send a message to the neighbouring Rasalhague Dominion. In an effort to retake some lost territory the Draconis Combine strike at Byesville, Labrea, Caripare, Asgard and Kanowit. Intent on driving back the Dominion but without wasting Elite commands the Combine sends ten of the Ghost Regiments several of which have recently been reformed. Each of the Ghost commands has been reinforced by double companies of TN-10-0 Tenshi OmniMechs giving the new ninety-five ton design an impressive combat debut. Tenshi, Japanese for Angel, was the newest Draconis Combine OmniMech and is capable of carrying more than half of its own tonnage in weapons and equipment and is given an impressive debut.
With two regiments deployed to each planet the Combine troops quickly steamroll over the defenders of Byeville, Labrea and Caripare. On Asgard and Kanowit the Ghost Regiments come across heavier resistance and after eight days resort to heavy artillery bombardment to wipe out the Rasalhague Dominion’s 243rd Battle Cluster and the Seventh Phalanx Cluster. Neither side deploy naval assets into the conflict restricting it to ground battles.
Arriving from the Star League Protectorate in support of the First Lord are the First Royal Black Watch Brigade, the Northwind Hussars and Northwind Rangers Regiment landing on Xinyang ready to support further Draconis Combine actions or defend from Rasalhague Dominion counter-attacks.
Honour Presentation
Tukayyid Orbit, Clan Space
Inner Sphere
31st December 3101
Across human occupied space people prepared to celebrate the coming of a new year Clan citizens were no different with massive celebrations across the Clan Occupation Zones. As part of the celebrations this year Clan Snow Raven present the SLS Hood, a fully restored Dreadnought-class Battleship, to the Loremaster of the Clans and the people of Tukayyid as a symbol of unity and strength among the Clans.
The SLS Hood was one of the first active WarShips in the Inner Sphere and been salvaged by the Ravens in the periphery. Engineers had spent years rebuilding and refurbishing the WarShip to its Star League-era condition while it was fully armed and crewed the ship was far more than a combat asset. Loremaster of the Clans Zane Carns decrees that the SLS Hood will be crewed by citizens from all of the Clans and guarded by members of the Ebon Keshik from Tukayyid.
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Is the Dreadnought the original model or has it been modernized?
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Is the Dreadnought the original model or has it been modernized?
Refurbished to its original fittings including mini bar in first class cabins as standard
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Into 3102 - my thanks to DOC_Agren for the contribution of Korbin's Kommandos Mercenary Command.
3102
[/b]
Annual Planetary Survey
Defiance, Point Barrow Combat Region
Crucis Mach, Federated Suns
9th January 3102
In the annual survey of the Federated Suns, for the first time in the nation’s history, Defiance is given a class B rating for the standard of living. This is a significant step up from its previous ratings and is all down to the eight atmospheric scrubbers financed by the NAIS and the University of Thorin which continue to clean the atmosphere and the Star League’s investment in the planet’s infrastructure. Experts predict in the next fifty to one hundred years the world will be among the most beautiful in the whole of the Federated Suns.
Observation Post
Irurzun, Irurzun Prefecture
Military District of Benjamin, Draconis Combine
18th January 3102
Looking through their long range scopes the troopers watched as the press conference began to muster “standard security by the looks of it.†One of them commented at the back of the room Christopher Grant glanced at his watch and rose from his chair.
“I’m going to check the perimeter†he said one of the others looked at him and then the fourth member of their team.
“Eric you go with him.â€
“I can manage…†Christopher began but was quickly interrupted.
“You know the drill no-one goes out alone†he said Christopher reluctantly nodded glancing at Eric. The two then headed out the back door and down the small flight of stairs to the alley behind the building. Reaching the street Christopher glanced to both sides before stepping out.
“You check that side Eric†Christopher said pointing to the right while he went to the left of the building. Christopher moved slowly around the building checking in front and behind him as he went as he moved he approached a red bin raising the lid on one of the bins. Quickly throwing two in bags to the side he saw the KA-23 Subgun that had been left for him picking it up he flicked out the cartridge seeing it was full he quickly pushed it back in he then unscrewed the attached silencer and checked it before reattaching it to the gun. Christopher moved around the building quickly returning to the entrance he saw Eric rounding the building Christopher quickly raised the gun and pulled down on the trigger cutting down the man with several hits to his chest. Slinging the rifle over his shoulder Christopher moved quickly checking on Eric, he saw that the man was dead, grabbing him under the arms he dragged him inside the ground floor.
Closing the ground floor door he moved the KA-23 behind his back and moved up the stairs. Entering the upper room he saw the two observers were still in place one of them glanced over at Christopher before looking back down their scopes “where’s Eric?â€
“In the head†Christopher replied after a moment stepping closer to the other two neither of them moved why should they? He was no threat to them. Without a hesitation Christopher drew the sub-machine gun from his back and sprayed the two men laying observing the press conference killing both instantly. Crossing the room Christopher opened the case seeing the sniper rifle inside; they had it purely as a precaution just incase new orders had arrived while they were here so far no orders from command had come down but Christopher had a use for it now.
Moving the two bodies from the window Christopher grabbed the sniper rifle and moved to the window and then waited watching gathering crowd. Christopher watched as the Prefecture leader Thomas Lyons moved onto the podium. Christopher looked down the sniper rifle’s scope looking over the Duke he reached for his encrypted radio “Black Dragon have hit our position, I’m evacuating†he called into it before sighting his scope and pulling the trigger. Christopher watched as the sniper shot flew through the air covering the kilometre between them striking the Duke of Irurzun on the upper chest. Moving quickly he grabbed three fragmentation grenades activating them he threw them down before running out of the door and down the stairs he disappeared down the street as the explosives he had left went off gutting the observation point.
Over the next twenty hours the DCMS locked down Irurzun searching for the perpetrator of the attack. For three days the Draconis Combine Mustered Society and Draconis Combine Intelligence searched for the source of the attack they found the observation point, the three charred bodies and the Draconis Combine built weapons but did not get much further. Throughout the Combine anger rose that it was the Black Dragons who had attacked them but there were also rumblings that this close to the border that it may have been someone from the Federated Suns.
Four days later Christopher Grant was evacuated off the planet on a civilian transport and returned to the Federated Suns his radio call regarding a Black Dragon attack on the Observation Post covered him for responsibility of his team’s death and indicated that rebellious elements from within the Draconis Combine were responsible for the sniper attack.
LIC Mercenary Hire
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
26th January 3102
After several intelligence operations against the Brotherhood of Cincinnatus and with LCAF guarding against Clan threats the Lyran Intelligence Command hires Korbin’s Kommandos, a battalion sized combined-arms mercenary unit, commanded by Colonel Burt Korbin to act as muscle to be used in any future assault against the Brotherhood in support of Intelligence Operatives.
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Defence Deployment
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
4th February 3102
Showing their dedication to the Lyran Commonwealth Clan Mountain Wolf deploys the first Gulltoppr OmniMonitors on Arc Royal and Atocongo. These one hundred-and-ninety ton super-heavy vehicles are intended on shoring up defence units on both planets. Clan Mountain Wolf announces that it plans to trade the Gulltoppr to the Lyran Commonwealth, to mercenary commands assigned to the Clan borders and the Star League Defence Force if they are interested as well as deploying it themselves.
This deployment comes as Clan Jade Falcon returns to the Morges system contesting its ownership and recovering the crippled Silver Talon which had been slowly drifting out of the system abandoned by the Jade Falcons and the liberating forces. As Jade Falcons stream onto the planet Jade Falcon WarShips obliterate Clan Mountain Wolf’s Implacabable, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, which had been supporting ground efforts. The Jade Falcons are not able to gain complete control over the system but the defenders are unable to dislodge the attackers.
Follow-up assaults
Alshian District, Rasalhague Dominion
18th February 3102
Following their previous successes against the Rasalhague Dominion the remaining Ghost Regiments launch further strikes striking at Maulang and Yamarovka. Like the previous strikes the Ghost Regiments double and triple up against the Ghost Bears with the First and Fifth supported by two WarShips striking Maulang and the Seventh, Eighth and Ninth, also supported by two WarShips, striking against Yamarovka. The Bears on Maulang fight a Trial of Possession against the numerically superior Combine troops and lose before agreeing to withdraw from the system. The Bears on Yamarovka, the Sixty-eighth Striker Cluster of Delta Galaxy, refuse to engage in honourable combat instead fighting heavily against the Ghost Regiments. Numerically outnumbering the Ghost Bears and with WarShips in support of them the Ghost Regiments crush the Ghost Bear cluster wiping out the Clan troops.
 
Parliament Building, Atreus City
Ionia, Atreus, United Marik Worlds
Former-Free Worlds League
22nd February 3102
“It has been too many days since this building was used†Prime Minister Allison Kaning said glancing around the table at the other leaders of the Former-Free Worlds League. Following the recent Star League Conference she had contacted the other leaders by HPG inviting them to this meeting now she sat with the other three leaders around the Captain-General’s table on the lowest level of the Parliament. Either side of them on stepped levels were the empty chairs set aside for the leaders of each planet of the Free Worlds League creating a Colosseum like room that felt empty with only four in them when it could fit hundreds.
“Corrine Marik did not believe it was our place to lead from this room.†Captain-General Joseph Marik said glancing around them taking in the room; it was the first time that he’d been in this building let alone the Parliament room. “I happen to agree†he said this was too flamboyant a room for his tastes.
“As do I†Prince Lester Cameron-Jones said “if we held this system we would not lead from here it is not our right.â€
“Perhaps it is time that someone did lead from this world.†Allison Kaning suggested looking at the other leaders calmly.
“Like you?†Captain-General Jonas Halas asked with a small amount of anger “you may be the oldest in this room and you may have quietly absorbed many worlds of our League but that does not qualify you to lead the Free Worlds League.â€
“I did not say that†she said ignoring the comment about her age she was twenty years older than Jonas who was the oldest of the others and she was a career politician but that did not matter not today. “I believe that the people of the Free Worlds League should be allowed to choose their own destines. My position within the Outer League Alliance is an elected one I believe it is time the Free Worlds League elected its new leader. She said looking at the other three people a new Captain-General with a parliament that represents us all.â€
“An elected leader with the threats that we face?†Joseph Marik asked “I face the threat of Clan Wolf ever single day the Lyran Commonwealth are continually testing our borders. We need strong leadership without having to wait for a parliament to react.â€
“I will not support a return to Resolution 288.†Jonas Halas said “one Captain-General does not rule this nation it does not work.â€
“I agree†Lester Cameron-Jones said
“As do I†Allison Kaning conceded “however I believe that together we could pool our resources in trade and on the diplomatic stage bringing a greater deal of leverage on our opponents.†She said the others did not oppose her plan “I propose that our nations continue to control our own military forces and border controls but Parliament is allowed to reform, to promote trade and to represent a once again united Free Worlds League on the diplomatic stage.â€
“If we continue to control our own military forces then why do we need a reformed Free Worlds League?†Jonas Halas asked he sounded curious.
“People ask the same thing about the reformed Star League Defence Force yet we support it.†Alison Kaning suggested “together we will have a single voice. No longer will the Lyran Commonwealth, Clan Wolf or the Capellan Confederation be facing against one of us but instead it will be against all of us.â€
“Yet we control our own military forces?†Lester Cameron-Jones suggested
“Correct†Allison Kaning said “we allow the people to decide who rules the Free Worlds League and we hold regular arranged elections so no-one remains in charge of this reformed League.†She said “there will be no return to a resolution where one person gains control over our nation at the expense of others†making it clear that she would not agree to this sort of arrangement “if such a Resolution is raised then the Outer League Alliance will withdraw from this League.â€
“As would the Principality of Regulus†Lester Cameron-Jones agreed nodding to Allison Kaning giving her his support.
“We all would†Joseph Marik said quietly thinking. “I am the leader of Marik, I am the leader of House Marik†he said quietly looking around the room “it has been too long since House Marik shared the status of the other great houses.â€
“Even if it is not a Marik in charge of this reformed nation?†Jonas Halas asked looking at the Captain-General “you would not necessarily be Captain-General of this League Joseph Marik.â€
“Yes I know†he said quietly “but I would continue to rule the Marik Worlds and I would have a voice in this room†he said seeing the attraction of a united Free Worlds League. “May I suggest one year from now Parliament meet in this place and we begin?â€
“A lot can happen in a year†Lester Cameron-Jones said ruefully “but I agree one year from today assuming we all feel the way we do today we invite leaders from every world to this place and the Free Worlds League returns.â€
“The Free Worlds League returns†Allison Kaning said proudly knowing that in one year her hard world would come full circle and a nation would be reborn.
“House Marik will return†Joseph Marik said confident that his name would carry the vote in an election of their nation glancing around he saw similar confidence from Lester Cameron-Jones and Jonas Halas. He knew that he’d have a tough time against the two men but that was a year away and a lot could happen in a year.
The leaders left Atreus over the next few days but already news of the meeting had begun to spread throughout the systems of the various nations and districts of the former-Free Worlds League. On their return to their home nations the leaders of each nation broke the news to each of their systems and the political campaigns began to become the newest Captain-General of the united Free Worlds League.
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Supervolcanic Eruption
Kirklin, Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
2nd March 3102
“This is the fifth day of volcanic eruptions Dr Zio can you tell us when it will likely subside?†Duke Eric Morgansteen asked looking at one of his scientific advisers.
“Sire, these eruptions threaten the entire Caldera†Zio explained moving his hand over the map of the continent “if these eruptions do not stop naturally then this entire area will become active.â€
“How large of an area is that?†Morgansteen asked looking at the map seeing it take in part of his capital city Kooperville and part of the Kallon Industries production facility that was on the planet.
“Roughly forty miles by thirty-one†Zio said “sire, should the entire Caldera erupt it will throw enough ash into the air to block out the sun, across the majority of the planet temperatures will drop below zero for the majority of the year even around the equator it will hover in the mid teens all year round.†He explained “effectively the surface of this planet will not be able to support our current population or anything over the tens of thousands.â€
“You are talking about almost half a billion souls that cannot be supported.†Duke Morgansteen explained “we haven’t got the lift capacity for a quarter of that. How long will it take for the caldera to erupt fully?â€
“We know little of this type of occurrence I know of it happening only twice on an occupied human planet one took less than forty-eight hours to erupt in 2312 while the other burned for nearly four months before finally fully erupting.†He explained “it could be as little as days or it could go on like this for months; or this could be its new natural state we simply don’t know Yellowstone Park on Terra has been geologically active for centuries but never erupted fully.†He pointed out finally.
“Let’s hope that it is that latter option.†Morgansteen said thinking an active volcanic system would make things difficult but they could live with it, a full eruption in months months might mean they could save many more people turning his chair activating the computer screen he looked into the mounted camera “This is Duke Eric Morganteen of Kirklin, Duke Cunningham, we have an unprecedented natural disaster on our planet a volcanic caldera has opened, ash is rising into our atmosphere and molten lava is flowing. My chief scientific adviser believes that this may be the beginning of a super-volcanic eruption one that will affect our entire planet. I call for humanitarian aid to Kirklin and advise that we may have to try to evacuate all citizens of this planet before a crisis strikes that is of greater cost than any since the Succession Wars.†He said finishing his message “Duke Cunningham I beg of you my world cannot be saved but please help my people.†He said ending the message sending it to Kestrel and New Avalon Kirklin needed all the help that it could get. Turning his chair he looked at the planetary defence leader Colonel Michael Carson. “Colonel, I need your people to begin evacuating the immediate areas effected by the caldera. Do not force people to leave their homes it will be their choice if they wish to leave this planet before the end.†He said pausing for a moment “I will address the population soon all civilians will be advised that only hand baggage will be allowed on evacuation transports.†He explained.
“What of Kallon Industries?†Carson asked the factory was important to the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.
“It will be up to Kallon to evacuate their own facilities†Morgansteen said “our priority is evacuating as many of our citizens as we possibly can. Dr Zio please keep me informed regarding the Caldera I need as much information on its status as you can give me.â€
“I will keep you informed sireâ€
“Let’s get to work†Morgansteen said finally he realized he may be the leader of a dying world but he would do everything he could to save as many people as he could.
Evening Meal, Steiner Palace
Arcturus, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
11th March 3102
“It’s good to have you home†Admiral Patrick Doyle said looking over the meal at his wife Archon Jessica Steiner “Arcturus has missed you.â€
“Just Arcturus?†She asked looking back across at her husband.
“No of course not, I’ve missed you too†he said smiling lightly “how was your trip in?â€
“Good having two Battle-cruisers follow my every move makes for easy travelling†she said commenting on his order for a second Mjolinir-class vessel to be assigned to her protection.
“It is effective at flying the flag few people could mistake who is arriving with them along and the Mjolinir is a good advertisement for Steiner engineering.†Patrick replied avoiding the real reason for the assignment.
“Of course they are but you're right it is good to be home†she said deciding to change the topic “how is Arcturus?â€
“Good better now that the Clans are not charging down on us, some have suggested we join the Royal Court on Tharkad. The summer markets are in full swing bringing in traders from across the Commonwealth we even had interest from the Combine this year." He explained she was surprised to hear of the foreign interest but glad to see things were progressing even without her.
“My father came to this planet we will remain.†She replied proudly there was something about this world that always seemed to work she thought eating some food before looking back at her husband “how about we ignore… business… for a little while?†She asked Patrick remained quiet for a moment before reaching forward and picking up his wine glass tipping it towards her for a moment before drinking from it. For the next four hours they spent time together as husband and wife forgetting the troubles of their past and of the Commonwealth both of them remembered what it had been like before their son's death before Jessica had returned to the service. As night fell Jessica left the palace returning to the LCS Iron Fist which waited in orbit.
Even as the Archon enjoys some time with her husband the Lyran Commonwealth comes under a new threat from the Stone Spirits along their Periphery border. The Stone Spirits fail to capture any of the Lyrans planets but they continue to keep the Lyrans on edge the Lyrans use the Obsidian Lancers Mercenary Brigade to assist in their defence.
 
Trial of Possession
Dehgolan, Rasalhague Dominion
17th March 3102
Clan Sea Fox’s Deathstrike Khanate wins Dehgolan from the Rasalhague Dominion marking a third world held by the Sea Foxes near the Rasalhague Dominion, their first near Clan Coyote held space and near Tukayyid. The Khanate’s Seventy-sixth Strike Cluster win the planet in a simple Trial of Possession Khan Hanna Coston announces the world will be held as a trade world and open to all Clan based citizens and traders. Within the Sea Fox Clan opposition to Hanna Coston's leadership remains high despite her successes in wresting Dehgolan from the Dominion.
Combine Offensive
Draconis March, Federated Suns
28th March 3102
In response to the assassination of a Prefecture leader the DCMS strike at Igualada, An Ting, Huan, Weponeta, McComb, Lima, Crossing and Benet III as they try to overwhelm and surround Federated Suns held territories. Igualada, An Ting and Huan fall to the DCMS forces however the arrival of the FSS Pegasus in the Crossing system throws the DCMS’s second line of attacks into disarray the recently repaired Columbia-class Battleship is a match for any DCMS vessel involved in the attack and throws off the attack in the Benet III system as well as units arrive disorganized from Crossing.
The attacks on Weponeta, McComb and Lima are broken up rapidly by the AFFS but the attacks put the entire Draconis March on edge with units preparing for follow up assaults and preparing counter attacks. Within the Draconis Combine Warlord Minoru Kurita calls off further assaults but already the damage has been done and planetary leaders within the Draconis Combine are looking for further strikes against the Federated Suns as the desires and glory of the Succession Wars begins to spread.
-
Trial of Possession, Andruien AeroTech
Westover, Outer League Alliance
Former-Free Worlds League
4th April 3102
With the loss of their facilities on Lopez, Andruien and Gibson Andruien AeroTech had been barely maintaining a profit only the strong sales of the aerospace fighters produced on Westover had kept the company in business. Despite this substance level exsistance the facility still appeared to be in good condition when Galaxy Commander Evangeline Clarke entered. Her Steelsoul Khanate had been victorious in a recent Trial of Possession which had claimed Westover from the Outer League Alliance her Clan’s assistance in the Clipperton system had given them permission to claim this planet but a successful martial victory had won them the planet.
Entering the reception area Lady Shanna Valdssen looked like she was in her late forties, she also looked like despite her companies financial troubles she had maintained her appearance, she also appeared quite angry. “Welcome to Westover†she said greeting the Sea Fox warrior.
“Thank you; you know why I am here quiaff?â€
“Sorry?†She asked not understanding the last word.
“You understand the terms of Westover’s surrender?â€
“Yes, my facility and my people belong to your Clan now. We will continue to produce aerospace units for the Outer League Alliance but primarily our products will be for Clan Sea Fox.â€
“Correct†Evangeline answered “I wish you to remain as administrator for this facility.â€
“As I understand it no-one who currently lives here is required to†she answered as part of the Outer League Alliance’s agreement with Clan Sea Fox no-one who lived on Westover or any of the systems moons were required to stay.
“Aff, that is correct, however you know this factory, this planet and the people who work here. You are the perfect person to administer this plant for my Clan and to oversee the facilities upgrading to Clan specifications†Evangeline explained.
“Upgrades?â€
“Aff†the Galaxy Commander said “soon this Clan will be a primary producer of aerospace fighters for Clan Sea Fox and for the Outer League Alliance†she promised the woman.
“With that challenge I accept your terms†Shanna Valdssen said
“Welcome to Clan Sea Fox Administrator Shanna†the Galaxy Commander said glancing around sure that the new facility would serve her Clan well.
Border Raids
Skvorec, Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
11th April 3102
As rumours of a reunited Free Worlds League reaches the Magistracy of Canopus the periphery state raids several systems of the Oriente Protectorate intent on showing that even if the Free Worlds League reforms they will not lay down and be forgotten. In the Skvorec system however the periphery raiders come across a surprise addition to the defences the First Twin Sons Regiment from the District of Lesnovo in the Outer League Alliance. The regiment which had been demonstrating their ultra-light Mechs and hand-held weapons to the Skvorec Militia forces immediately support the Oriente defenders supporting their fellow Free Worlds League defenders driving back the Magistracy defenders. The First Twin Sons Regiments performance further supports the idea of a reunited Free Worlds League throughout the territories formerly controlled by House Marik and wins the Twin Sons system contracts to supply Mechs and hand-held weapons to nearly a dozen planets in the Oriente Protectorate.
DropShip Dream Eater (Union-class DropShip)
Lima, Draconis March
Federated Suns
16th April 3102
For the last thirty-two years Masaya Nakatina had been a loyal daughter of the Draconis Combine commanding a Union-class DropShip, the Dream Eater, assigned to the Third Amphigean Light Assault Regiment. She had commanded the same DropShip in battle against the Federated Suns and Clan Snow Raven successfully commanding during planetary invasions and in defence against aerospace fighters but today was different.
They had arrived in the Lima system two days before and found little resistance at the jump point only the ancient Bastion Space Station in orbit over the planet was still there and it wouldn’t stop their forces which included the DCS Aurora Wake, a Kirishima II-class Cruiser, then the game had changed behind their unit another ship had entered the system a Federated Suns vessel the FSS Pegasus.
The massive WarShip had quickly orientated towards their unit and accelerated chasing them down Masaya still marveled at watching the massive Columbia-class WarShip accelerate. The one point nine million ton WarShip was capable of bursts of 4G acceleration and was quickly catching up with their force nerves on the Combine DropShips were high as the Pegasus got closer and closer. Already the DCS Aurora Wake had turned backwards facing the incoming WarShip but they all knew there was little chance that the Cruiser would survive an assault against the Pegasus instead its job would be to try and delay the Pegasus and allow the ground forces to make ot to the planet. Masaya glanced the rear camera in a vain attempt to see the incoming vessel but there was no way she would be able to visibly see it.
The Dream Eater’s sensors detected a massive burst of energy as the Aurora Wake attempted to engage the incoming WarShip with its battery of Heavy Naval Particle Cannons from the deep a massive there was corresponding burst of energy as the Cruiser’s weapons struck the incoming Federated Suns vessel. Moments later there was another burst of weapons fire from the Pegasus as she returned fire engaging the Aurora Wake Masaya felt completely vulnerable her DropShip was designed to transport a company of BattleMechs not battle in space. Suddenly from the front of the Pegasus there was a flash of light as the Battleship fired twelve massive Kraken Telescopic missiles from its forward array the missiles roared across space the first four had been targeted on the Aurora Wake the cruiser’s anti-missile defence systems engaged the missiles but two were still able to strike the WarShip’s armour blowing armour from the hull. Masaya had not been looking at the missiles targeting the Kirishima instead she had focused on the other eight missiles the Pegasus had engaged the Amphigean Light Assault’s DropShips. Designed to blast WarShip armour the Krakens tore after the transport DropShips Masaya glanced at her screens she saw aerospace fighters peel off trying to engage the missiles but there was little chance at stopping the missiles four DropShips were torn to pieces by the missile strikes two of them spinning out of formation crippled by the strikes.
The battle between the two WarShips was intensifying as the distances between the two ships decreased the Pegasus was rapidly closing on the Combine formation with the two WarShips engaging with their support firepower particle cannons continued to tear into both ships while the Aurora Wake added their naval autocannons into the mix the Pegasus added a newly refitted array of weapons twelve sub-capital missile launchers. The sub-capital missiles were far smaller than their Capital cousins and usually reserved for anti-fighter and anti-DropShip combat but they were equally useful against a heavily armoured unit like the Aurora Wake and added to a second volley of Kraken missiles the made for an impressive showing. Explosions tore over the Draconis Combine WarShip’s hull ripping open its armour as the Capital and Sub-capital missiles overwhelmed the Kirishima’s anti-missile systems.
The Pegasus continued to thunder forward maintaining its speed Masaya watched her sensors as the huge vessel closed on the Amphigean Light Assault’s DropShip the Aurora Wake continued to fire on the massive craft but its armour absorbed hit after hit as it passed through the Combine formation. As the Pegasus moved through the Combine vessels naval lasers and more sub-capital missiles flew from the ship striking the Combine WarShip, DropShips and aerospace fighters. Behind the Pegasus came its four aerospace fighter wings which added their firepower to the mix causing more chaos.
Watching the Dream Eater’s external camera feeds Masaya felt helpless there was nothing else she could do her DropShip was on a course for the planet they were evading incoming fire as best they could but the ship did not carry the firepower needed to engage their enemy. She watched as the Pegasus’ nose dipped lower then turn end-over-end as the ship began to pivot turning her nose weapons back onto the Combine WarShip which was now behind her the WarShip’s speed took it through the Amphigean formation along the ship’s length naval lasers continued to lash out at the Combine units even as the vessel preformed the intricate maneuver. Masaya shook her head watching the massive WarShip turn its massive bulk was a marvel of human engineering, and the desire to kill other human beings, which had created such a vessel.
In the centre of their formation the Aurora Wake attempted to turn to track the Pegasus but the damage already done to the craft and further damage caused by the turning Pegaus made the Aurora Wake’s turn sluggish. A volley of Kraken Capital weapons tore into the rear of the Aurora Wake gutting several of its thrusters another volley of naval particle fire broke the back of the cruiser shattering the WarShip.
Even as fire gutted the Aurora Wake and escape pods left the stricken vessel the surviving DropShips were in their own fight for survival now their WarShip was gone and the Pegasus in front of them breaking heavily. “SCATTER! SCATTER! SCATTER!†The command passed through the DropShips any attempt to get to Lima was now pointless the Pegasus and her fighters would hunt them down before they reached the surface. More capital and sub-capital missiles flashed from the front of the Federated Suns WarShip critically damaging DropShips and completely destroying aerospace fighters looking at her screens Masaya knew what she needed to do.
“This is Captain Masaya Nakatina commander of the DCDS Dream Eater to FSS Pegasus I am carrying a company of Light BattleMechs of the Third Amphigean Light Assault Regiment†she announced over an open communications channel she could see members of her bridge crew looking around “I am willing to offer my surrender as long as you do not harm my crew or passengers.â€
“Pegasus to Dream Eater, maintain your course do not engage any aerospace fighters or DropShips under our command and you will not be harmed. Deviate from these instructions and you will be considered hostile.â€
“I agree to your terms†she said cutting the communications “I do not want to die in cold space†she said looking around the bridge “we’ve lost this fight let’s not make things worse.â€
“Two Amphigean aerospace fighters are turning towards us!†One crewmen shouted out Masaya maintained her composure watching the screens as the fighter pilots engaged them with long range missile launchers the fighter pilots taking Dream Eater’s surrender as a betrayal.
“Hold position†she said watching the missiles close on her ship “damage control teams to positions prepare for incoming damage.†She ordered the missiles rapidly closed the gap slamming into the forward armour of the Union she glanced at her screens but didn’t see any bad damage this time but those fighters could fire again in a moment “damn you we’re on the same side†she cursed watching as the fighters fired again “department heads call in†she said watching the missiles close on her ship’s position but before they struck her craft a Davion Arondight DropShip flashed past swatting at least half of the missiles from space criminalizing the damage done to the Union. Seconds later two Davion aerospace fighters flashed passed cutting the Amphigean fighters from the space with their gauss rifles. The two fighters looped around the wrecked Amphigean fighters and came alongside the Dream Eater “Dream Eater, this is Hawkeye, Polar Bear and myself are your escort you are to hold your course to the planet and make it dirt-side once there you are to shut down and wait for instructions if we see Mechs coming out your doors things will not end well for you.†The pilot said Masaya nodded as she looked at the strange fighters she didn’t recognize them and her DropShip couldn’t penetrate their electronic counter measures all she could be sure of was they were around seventy tons.
“Understood Hawkeye we will comply†she promised the pilot she had no intention on breaking their surrender.
“Captain, look at screen two†her executive officer Howard Kennedy said “then look back at screen one you see the insignia difference?†Masaya had a look at the two images it was from her DropShips external cameras looking at the two fighters one had the insignia of the First New Avalon Guards RCT while the other had the insignia of the Davion Heavy Guards RCT it was almost like the Federated Suns had culled aerospace fighters from across the AFFS to support the Pegasus.
“Interesting†she admitted “Pegasus did just come back into service†she said remembering the ship featuring prominently on a recent Intelligence briefing “perhaps her fighters were reassigned during her refit.â€
“Maybe or maybe they just aren’t as strong as they are making outâ€
“Strong enough to beat us today†she reminded him “our escort is pulling back watching our descent take us into the atmosphere†she ordered a warning siren sounded throughout the ship warning the crewmen and passengers what was about to happen then the DropShip rolled end over end and slammed into the atmosphere briefly becoming an artificial meteorite as the DropShip’s hull interacted with the upper atmosphere. After a few moments the shaking subsided slightly and Masaya released the straps on her acceleration couch and rose to her feet stretching “you have the bridge XO I’m going to tell our Mechjocks what’s happening†she said knowing the MechWarriors would be expecting to land and fight.
“I’ll get a security team to meet you†he said reaching for the intercom controls.
“No I’ll handle it myself†she said waving his concerns off.
“They could kill you those MechWarriors are crazy they won’t want to just surrender†he warned her.
“I’ll tell them they can argue with the Pegasus I’m pretty sure it’s not a fight they want to face.†She said feeling drained from the flight she knew the MechWarriors would not like to surrender; the idea of being dispossessed was still a strong one despite the fact that most Mechs belonged directly to the Draconis Combine, but the simple fact was they’d been out maneuvered by the Federated Suns in this system.
In total two other DropShips had surrendered to the Federated Suns naval units, two more could be salvaged along with some of their cargo, while the remaining three DropShips had been completely and more than half of the aerospace fighters had been destroyed along with the Aurora Wake the Third Amphigean Light Assault had been effectively destroyed in battle and through surrenders. Elsewhere Royal and Weponeta had fallen to the DCMS while the two states continued to contest McComb and New Aberdeen.
Public Announcement, Steiner Palace
Arcturus, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd April 3102
National news in the Lyran Commonwealth reports that Archon Jessica Steiner has taken a leave of absence from her duties serving the Lyran Commonwealth Navy to concentrate on the needs of her family and her nation by leading her nation from the Steiner Palace on Arcturus. Reports suggest that the Archon’s WarShip the LCS Iron Fist and its escort the LCS Typhoon, both Mjolinir-class Battle-cruisers, are likely to remain in the Arcturus system for the immediate future receiving new aerospace fighters to replace older craft and a softwear upgrade to their systems.
-
High Command Briefing, Fox’s Den
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
2nd May 3102
“They did what?!†First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion uncharacteristically snapped at his Marshal of Armies Sora Higginson around the table several members of the High Command leaned back out of the way of Victor’s gaze while behind their father Princes Burton and Fredrick Davion leaned back.
“Sire, on the Fourth of April 3102 Clan Nova Cat led by Khan Canin Rosse engaged the planetary militia of the system of Farnsworth in an early morning raid.†She said beginning again Farnsworth was a system in middle of the Draconis March’s Hazelhurst PDZ. “The Nova Cats neutralized the planetary militia, seized control over the HPG and took control over the jump points with naval assets.â€
“Naval assets as in WarShips?†Victor said looking to clarify the point glaring at Fleet Admiral Blaine Webster the head of the navy.
“Yes, sire a Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser and an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser†Sora confirmed waiting a moment before she continued. “Over the course of the next week the Nova Cats fought a series of Trials of Possession with planetary forces, these were of a limited scale with the Nova Cats allowing our citizens to live their lives as normal.†She said
“It is how a Clan operates in general when they invade a system.†Victor said remembering fighting the Clans in the past “they allow life to continue as long as they remain in control of the system. Continue Marshalâ€
“On the second week of the occupation another WarShip entered the system. This ship was another Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser and we believe that it belongs to Clan Snow Raven†she explained “this new arrival and the Nova Cat Conqueror proceeded to engage each other in a series of brutal duels.â€
“The Clans battled over our system?†Burton asked speaking ahead of his father
“No, sire†the Marshal of Armies answered “Clan Snow Raven did not land on the planet’s surface instead the two Clans battled in space the Snow Ravens appear to have been showing off their Conqueror which appears to have been modified from the standard design.â€
“Modified?†Blaine Webster asked interested in any changes to the Clan WarShips.
“It appears that the Snow Ravens have replaced the ships arrays of standard lasers and pulse lasers with dedicated anti-missile systems and replaced the LB-X Autocannons with HAGs.†She explained “after several days of battle the Snow Raven vessel left the system and they were followed out of the system by Clan Nova Cat. We believe that during their time on Farnsworth the Nova Cats seized several cargo shipments of precious metals, food supplies and over one hundred men and women as bondsmen.â€
“So two Clans used our system as a testing ground and we find out about it a fortnight later?†Victor asked concerned about the time delay.
“It appears that before the Nova Cats abandoned the HPG they disabled certain parts of the facility to delay a response from the planet towards command.†She said trying to explain the delay why the two Clans had decided to use the system as a test was an unknown.
“And where are the Nova Cats and Snow Ravens now?â€
“We believe they have left Federated Suns space milord†Sora Higginson replied “I have issued a directive to all AFFS commands, in both the regular and reserve armies, to report in their readiness should any system fail to respond I and Admiral Webster have discussed the use of a reaction force.â€
“Very good, we can’t allow this to happen again, have the diplomatic corps approach the Nova Cat Embassy we are cutting off diplomatic relations†Victor announced he was still angry at the Clan’s actions and had made up his mind that if they wanted to act like the other Clans it was time the Federated Suns treated the Nova Cats that way. “Admiral Webster, I know we have commitments to Victoria but I want the navy to increase the regularity of their patrols through our periphery systems I do not this happening again.†He said dismissing the meeting he turned towards his two eldest sons. “These people will hold this nation together when everything appears to be falling apart but you can’t cut them too much slack.†He said as the officers filed out “Burton you’re going to remain here on New Avalon†he said to his eldest son “we need to formulate a force to counter any further response from the Nova Cats.†He said Burton looked disappointed but nodded “Fredrick I need you to go back to Victoria Kym Hasek will be out of action on Kathil with the birth of her son we need someone senior on Victoria.†He said looking at the young man “up for the challenge?â€
“Yes sir I might need a bit more than the Fourth†he said concerned that his own Light Combat Team may struggle.
“We’re sending along with you the Light Davion Guards RCT, the Seventh New Avalon Guards RCT and the Second Tikonov Cossacks RCT to back you up along with any independent regiment you can scrounge from planetary defenders on the way. I don’t want you to strip planets completely but I want the Capellans bottled up near Victoria we keep them focused there then we can deal with any further trouble from the Nova Cats or Combine.†Victor said explaining his motivations Fredrick nodded his understanding Victoria was a prize for the Federated Suns but it distracted the Capellans which was worth far more at least in the short term.
Four days later the Federated Suns delivered an ultimatum to the Nova Cat embassy for the staff there to vacate the facility. The Nova Cats would be allowed to remain in their firebase on the New Scotland continent at least until Victor Steiner-Davion contacted the Nova Cat leader and the Nova Cats explained their actions in the Farnsworth system.
 
Border Skirmish
Oriente Protectorate
Former-Free Worlds League
9th May 3102
Further border fighting erupts between the Oriente Protectorate and the Magistracy of Canopus. The periphery nation sending an expeditionary unit into Oriente territory commanded from the MSC Canopus, a Feng Huang II-class Cruiser/Carrier. The Magistracy forces fight their way through the systems of Cap Rogue, Cole Harbour and Slendou landing occupation forces on each planetary body but in the Deschenes system the Magistracy forces encounter one of Oriente’s Monolisk-class Destroyers which is supported by assault DropShips and aerospace fighter units. In the face of a WarShip equipped opponent the Magistracy of Canopus’ flagship withdrew instead of running the risk losing their ship.
Battle-site
Sailbury Plains, York
Alaron Province, Lyran Commonwealth
18th May 3102
Walking past a burnt out York Militia Zeus Assault BattleMech Colonel Burt Korbin chomped down on his cigar his unit Korbin’s Kommandos had arrived in the system six hours ago at a pirate point and made a combat drop less than two kilometres from here but unfortunately they had arrived too late to stop the Brotherhood of Cincinnatus striking an open blow on the LCAF in destroying the York Militia. “We need to get ahead of this Agent Scottâ€
“The Brotherhood has existed in the shadows for hundreds of years they will not be easy to destroy.â€
“If you can get us within striking distance of them they will break just as easily as any other enemy†Korbin replied his unit were almost all ex-members of the LCAF and although they were now mercenaries they were still dedicated to the defence of the Lyran people, even in their own way.
“We are working on it Colonel but we are engaged in a war of shadows it’s not as easy as blowing up a couple of Mechs.†Agent Scott said but Korbin wasn’t looking at him Scott turned following his sight.
“Tell that to the York Militia†the mercenary commander said as the LIC Agent looked at the downed Zeus.
Cassandra, Clan Enclave
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
30th May 3102
Natasha Faraday stood at the side of the holo-table, her arms folded in her chest as she studied the holo-map of the Rim Collection and surrounding systems before her. Usually, the room would have been fully staffed with Rim Collection Touman personnel, but today wasn’t a regular day by far, she acknowledged, barely keeping herself from grimacing as the only other occupant in the room also studied the holo-map. Natasha hated to admit it but the dezgra Stone Spirits were putting up quite a battle against her people on Seven Lands and she hated that she now had to share this fact with this newcomer.
“The Spirits are putting a hell of a fight against you on Seven Lands,†the man finally sounded out, annoying the Mandrill Khan further. His insinuation her forces were unable to hold the planet was almost the final straw. It had been the Rim Collection’s ruling council that had agreed to give this man sanctuary in their nation Natasha believed it was a mistake.
“We had no problem holding them back in the past,†she answered the Inner Sphere-born warrior with pride. “Need I remind you while we may be outnumbered in terms of ‘Mechs, our CCT’s have large numbers of aerospace, armor, and power armor assets to more than make up for this weakness, making them roughly equal to a standard galaxy? The Fourth Rim Regulars CCT did when the Spirits began their assault three weeks ago.â€
“I was not attempting to infer you were unable†he said defensively “it was just an observation.†She had enough of this freebirth scum talking down to her as if she was still a munchkin in diapers. He may have been old enough to have sired her thrice over, but she was a hardened member of Clan Fire Mandrill and he was a freebirth Spheroid exiled from his own homeland on pain of death and who had until nearly a month ago had never lived within the Collection, much less visited her homeland. Though she chose her next words with care, she more then made sure the man felt her increasing ire of him.
“Leonard Stewart, the Collection is grateful for…Kindraa Stewart’s…past assistance.†She said the Stewart family had facilitated the Rim Collection’s access to the Longinus Battle Armour when they had still been in their place of power in the Former-Free Worlds League it had been one of the reason the Rim Collection government had welcomed them “Yet its debt with you has been repaid when we allowed you and your followers to settle here.†She reminded him “your efforts to reactivate the factory on Timbuktu is likewise a welcome addition and make your Kindraa an influentional voice in the future but militarily your… protection unit… is a minor miltiplier compared to our other forces you know little of our ways or of our enemies.â€
“We are willing to prove ourselves†he said angrily.
“I am sure you believe you are†Natasha said “but I do not honestly know. You are from Marik space. Your people fight among themselves more often than they do against the Lyrans, Wolves, and Capellans put together,†she answered back nonchalantly. “Much like Clan Fire Mandrill did until our own exodus from the Homeworlds. Said exodus taught my Clan the value of working together. If your Kindraa attempts to serve your own goals instead of the Rim Collection’s goals then rest assured Kindraa Leader, my Clan Fire Mandrill will put your forces down permanently†she warned him, looking up and glaring at him.
“You can rest assured. My House, my…Kindraa….as you put it, only wants to rebuild itself we came here for survival. Your Collection offered us a more than fair deal and one my House will keep,†he answered her glare calmly with one of his own.
Neither wanted to show weakness, Natasha knew, and she respected the man for that much. For the sake of diplomacy, she decided to humor the man and allow him a small measure of trust. “Your Stewart Guard have full defensive responsibility for the factory facility on Timbuktu I will allow you full command over all military assets on Timbuktu, including my own Fire Mandrill units, to defend this facility. Do not think that this turns that planet to your control it does not. Clan Fire Mandrill still hold sway over Timbuktu but you will have responsibility for its defence.â€
“My thanks for your trust†Leonard Stewart said humbly “Khan Faraday if I may ask what do you believe will happen between Hiberus and Gilfillian’s Gold?†He asked recently following her failure in the recent election Megan Hall had recalled the three Rim Guards CCT’s to Hiberus while President Karen Able had recalled her own Lancer Clusters to Gilfillian’s Gold and Otisberg.
“I think that calmer heads need to prevail or my Mandrills will be forced to permanently interfere with more than one Kindraa of this nation.†She said angrily “you probably know in fighting is not good for a nation†she said taking a swipe at him for his actions in the Free Worlds League. Clan Fire Mandrill faced such problems once and has come out stronger because of it.†She explained “we will allow the Rim Collection to find its way...â€
“And if that way is to Civil War?†He asked interrupting his people had been offered a place in the Star League Protectorate they had come here because it looked like they had a better chance here.
“Then it will end as briefly as it begins†she promised him “until then Clan Fire Mandrill will stand at the gates and maintain our borders against the nation’s enemies.â€
“Kindraa Stewart will stand with you†Leonard said accepting his families new position subservient to the Khan and to the Rim Collection's government. Leonard dreamed of releasing his families possessions from the the Free Worlds League and in releasing his families homeworld from Clan Wolf one step at a time.
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Sigma Galaxy Command Base
Caphai, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
4th June 3102
“Star Colonel Alexi, welcome to Alpha Galaxy†Galaxy Commander Katherine Nostra said greeting the new warrior into her command. Alexi was a member of the Mystic Caste and had been assigned to advise Alpha Galaxy’s command. “I believe you failed your Trial of Bloodrite Quiaff?â€
“Aff, Galaxy Commander, so I chose a different way to serve our Clan my blood has been added to the Mystic Caste gene-pools I have given up on having my genes living through future warriors to serve the Mystic Caste.â€
“A worthy goal but you are still young you could have fought for a Bloodname again quiaff?â€
“Aff, not my path†he said the man was only twenty-six years old he could have done much more for their Clan instead he had felt the call of the new caste.
“So your path brings you into my galaxy and you believe that you can guide my warrior’s quiaff?â€
“I will guide anyone who is willing to listen.â€
“You will have to guide them on the move Alpha Galaxy has been given permission by our Khan to raid the Draconis Combine.â€
“Despite what is happening on New Barcella.â€
“Because of that our Khan hopes we will find answers in the Combine or in the Federated Suns we will have to work extra hard during our raids.â€
Twenty-ninth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate
12th June 3102
Despite having Clan Wolf forces just over the border and the system being under heavy guard from the SLDF and LCAF the organizers of the Solaris Gaming Season had decided that the games would continue. It was this stubborn profit at all costs attitude that had allowed the Solairs Games to flourish despite wars and invasions across the Inner Sphere. As part of the Gaming season the Twenty-ninth Star League Games were to take place in the purpose built Star League stadium. Due to the threat of Clan Wolf few beyond Solaris traveled to the system for the games instead it led to a games dominated by Solaris VII gladiators.
Debuting a new design the Storm Raider local favourite Amir Alhabi, originally from Coventry, dominates the battle running his light Mech in circles around his heavier opponents. Using the “Liao Forbidden Temple and Wall†section of the stadium to keep cover between his Storm Raider and the other Mechs Alhabi is able to snipe at his opponents while avoiding the return fire. After three hours Amir Alhabi is crowned the new Star League Games champion.
Star League Defence Force Deployment
Kittery, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate
28th June 3102
Intended as a means of fully securing the Kittery Prefecture and provide the small region with its own dedicated defence units the first Regiment of the Kittery Protectorate Defence Division is formed. Named the Kittery Lament Regiment it falls under the direct command of Protector-General Devlin Stone and is commanded by Colonel Belle Lee. The unit is formed around a Mech Regiment, two armour regiments and a jump infantry regiment with battle armour and aerospace fighter units in support. Protector-General Devlin Stone directs that this new regimental brigade should be assigned to the defence of Kittery.
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Royal Birth, Marik Royal Medical Facility
Marik, United Marik Worlds
Former-Free Worlds League
9th July 3102
On the homeworld of House Marik new life is welcomed into Captain-General Joseph Marik’s world as his first son Anson is born. Both the new arrival and Joseph’s wife Lucy are reported as doing very well in the care of the Marik family doctors.
Battleline Allard-Liao Palace
St Ives, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
13th July 3102
Duchess Jaylen Davion coughed heavily as smoke rose into the cockpit of her Stealth OmniMech the Capellans had landed on St Ives four days ago and had pushed heavily against the defenders she knew her husband’s unit the First St Ives Jannisaries RCT had been destroyed in the opening fighting. She’d heard reports that Tristen had been badly injured while other reports suggested he had been captured by the Capellans unfortunately she couldn’t spend the resources searching for him. She watched as a Capellan Emperor stepped into view renewing the attacker’s assault on the Allard-Liao family home with a laser blast high over the troops into the damaged but still standing palace. This world had adopted her despite her troubled marriage to Duke Tristen Alliad-Liao and that building was her home “are you going to accept that?†Jaylen transmitted over an open channel “for someone to come to our home and disrespect where we life?†She said angrily “well I am Duchess Jaylen Davion, daughter of Victor Steiner-Davion, wife of Duke Tristen Alliard-Liao and I say NO!†She shouted identifying herself as she raised her Stealth’s weapons and fired at the Emperor. Across the line the remaining St Ives Lancers, including Justin and Marko Rubinsky twin sons of Cassandra Allard-Liao, joined her fire at the Emperor. Behind the Capellan Mech a Highlander, Vindicator and Viking BattleMechs were stepping into view as the Capellans threw everything they had at the remaining lancers missiles and lasers tore into Jaylen’s Mech as her announcement of her presence brought increased enemy fire on her medium OmniMech.
“We say NO!†Another MechWarrior screamed stepping his Shootist BattleMech into the path of weapons fire taking hits that had been aimed at Jaylen’s position. From each side of the Duchess’s Mech St Ives Lancers were stepping from their position flooding the gap between her Mech and the Capellans all echoing her rallying call.
Many of the lancers fell as they charged forward but with them they brought a ferocity that within minutes had seen en entire Capellan Company, including the first Emperor, fall. Not waiting for orders or for direction driven by anger and a desire to hurt the invaders the Lancers charged forward despite Capellan counter fire intent on bringing as many weapons on the enemy as possible. Marching her own Mech forward Jaylen watched as a gauss rifle shot tore the right arm from Marko Rubinsky’s Helios knocking the BattleMech to the ground. Even as she stepped past the fallen Mech she saw Marko was rolling the Mech over picking his Mech up. Alongside her another Helios, this one piloted by Marko’s brother Justin, was peppering Capellan positions with his Mech’s short range missile launchers. Continuing forward Jaylen added her own Mech’s lasers and missiles to the barrage being put out by her Lancers today they were going to show the Capellans they had come to the wrong world.
Fourteen hours later Jaylen Davion was back at what remained of her family home medics were tending to her right shoulder following a cockpit breach which had destroyed her Stealth's cockpit and torn open her body. Her remaining commanders briefed her of their losses. “The Capellans had been expected at Victoria yesterday, that attack has failed to emerge, we now believe they rerouted their assets to the attacks here, Nashur and Armaxa. We are still dislodging them from here and from Armaxa while the Nashur attack was broken up by the FSS Crocea Mors.†Field Marshal Tamas Rubinsky explained.
“What did we ever do before WarShips?†Jaylen asked half joiningly there were those that were against WarShips believing they were too expensive and had detracted from the position that Mechs held within the nations of the Inner Sphere but their presence could not be ignored. Despite their being no WarShip in this system the Capellans had directed dedicated assault assets that would have attacked St Ives to Nashur because of the presence of the FSS Crocea Mors. “Reroute additional assets to Armaxa we can handle the remaining Capellans here†Jaylen ordered Tamas nodded “any news on Tristen?â€
“We found your husband’s Mech at the Justin Allard-Liao Spaceport its engine and gyro sections had been completely destroyed we believe by containment failure. The damage done to the Mech was extensive but we believe the cockpit module safely ejected before the engine gave way unfortunately we have still found no sign of Tristen or…†Tamas said pausing for a moment “or any sign of his body but there is extensive damage that has been done to the capital.†He said quietly he didn’t need to tell Jaylen that she had been in the heart of the fighting in the city thousands had been lost, tens of thousands displaced and it would take billions to repair the damage done.
Planetary Evacuation
Kirklin, Kestrel Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
22nd July 3102
Above the world of Kirklin there were more starships than there had ever been before as the prospect of a supervolcanic eruption became a greater and greater possibility daily. Into a high orbit, in an effort to assist to the evacuation the SLS Wasp, a Potemkin-class WarShip, moved into position. The Wasp would evacuate hundreds of thousands itself with its twenty-five DropShips but it would serve a greater capacity serving as the centre for the coordination of the evacuation. The Star League Defence Force vessel also served as a reminder to the planetary population that they had not been forgotten and their needs would be catered for.
On the surface with no further eruptions there were those who had begun to question the need to evacuate but efforts to get as many people off the planet as possible were already well under way. The Kallon Industries Factories had already brought in nearly a dozen DropShips, many paid for by the AFFS, to evacuate their factory facilities and the personnel who worked there.
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A new generation of Marik is born! Trouble for the FS in the form of war with the CC and a planet being evacuated. Oh and Clan Nova Cat trying to find a new purpose or meaning of being Clan? Very nice update this week! Keep it up!
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Clan Wolf Landing
International Zone, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate
8th August 3102
“Ladies and Gentlemen my name is Wolfgang Debtweiller and today the big news on Solaris VII is that Clan Wolf has landed. At 1400 hours yesterday afternoon a Clan Wolf WarShip escorted one of the oldest Clan Wolf Clusters the 328th Assault Cluster, the Lion Hearted, to the planet. The Lion Hearted did not come here for conquest instead they landed in the International Zone behind me and quickly occupied three joined warehouses without firing a single shot. With the SLDF deploying throughout the International Zone everyone expected the beginning of the First Battle of Solaris VII with war coming to the game world.†He said setting the scene for those elsewhere on Solaris and beyond “instead Clan Wolf made a statement of their intent on Solaris VII at 0900 this morning Star Colonel Jonas Ward, the commander of the 328th, announced that Clan Wolf would be competing in the Solaris VII games with their first game due to take place within a week. Star Colonel Ward also announced that should Clan Wolf face attack outside the Games they would retaliate with their full force and bring war to the planet.†He said explaining the surprising turn from Clan Wolf “the Solaris VII Gaming Commission and Star League Protectorate Council have both agreed to provisionally accept Clan Wolf’s entry into the championship but the people of Solaris are nervous, more so than when Zellbrigen Stables entered the championship, no-one really knows how Clan Wolf will react to public losses to the Solaris aces nor do people know what they will do if they are victorious in the competition.â€
Four days later five Wolf Warriors entered the Solaris Grand Championship each piloting an eighty-five ton Lycurgus OmniMech. In their first five matches the Wolves register three outright wins, one draw and one loss also within the games the Wolves register three kills on members of the Zellbrigen Stables which had long been supported by Clans Jade Falcon and Sea Fox. Commentators mention that none of the Zellbrigen deaths could be described as “accidental†with one of the deaths described as little more than an execution.
Fleet Deployments
First Fleet, Star League Protectorate
18th August 3102
As part of continued efforts to expand their naval forces and create additional Naval C3 supported units the Star League Defence Force debut two Caliburn-class Battle-cruisers, the SLS Caliburn and SLS Excalibur. Federated Suns naval analysts and observers note that the Battle-cruiser is very similar to a Battle-cruiser variant of the New Syrtis-class designed by Commodore Matthew Davion. These comments fall on deaf ears with the SLDF as the vessel uses Capital Anti-Missile Systems, Naval C3 systems and a weapons array that is significantly different from the original refit. The AFFS High Command lodge an official protest with the Star League Council and with the Star League Courts but the case is not expected to be heard or resolved for some time.
Opening Ceremony, Galatea Station
Galatea, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
24th August 3102
High above the dead world of Galatea the Galatea Station officially opens for business welcoming in traders and mercenaries from across the Inner Sphere. At two-and-a-half million tons the Galatea Station is a marvel of human engineers with the front of the station comprised mainly of a large rectangular series of cargo bays and a dozen DropShip docking collars. Attached to the docking area is a series of Small Craft and Aerospace fighter bays while behind the docking bays are twelve gravity decks which had the accommodation quarters, meeting areas, mercenary hiring halls and civilian shopping areas.
Although the station had only officially opened already thirty thousand people had moved onto the station but the station had a capacity of over two hundred-and-thirty thousand and now it was open for business. Walking along the business section Station Commander Michael O’Hare passed by the crewmen and guests who had already come to the station beside him was Security Chief Jerry Doyle “how are things going Jerry?†The commander asked moving through the crowd.
“Great Commander we’ve got less than a fifth of the total people this station can hold and already crime is on the rise. Thanks to the penny pinchers in the LCAF High Command I’ve got half the security personnel on board that I should have and less than two thirds of our defences are active.â€
“It’s great isn’t it†O’Hare joked
“Yes brilliant†Doyle admitted
“Well at least they have let me keep the Prometheus†he pointed out referring to his previous command the Isegrim-class Pocket WarShip which remained in the system supplementing their aerospace fighters.
“Makes up for having half the aerospace fighters we were promised. I hear that the SLDF offered to permanently garrison a proper WarShip in the system but the Isle of Skye command blocked it?†Doyle asked having heard the rumour from some of the mercenaries.
“The Isle of Skye command believes that having an SLDF presence in the system would disrupt the mercenary trade. I was considering hiring a mercenary aerospace fighter squadron or two to supplement our fighter ranks at least on the short time.â€
“Mike, this is a mercenary port hiring on your own mercs could make Skye think your hiring your own army.â€
“Yeah but at least it would turn the Combine’s eyes away from the station†O’Hare said Doyle looked surprised “they see it as a cash cow they’ve long given up on the Death to Mercenaries order and now want to reap some of the rewards of having a bunch of mercs hiring on.â€
“Not that we’re going to get the most reputable mercs passing through. Most of the big commands are hired on with the Houses or have business sowed up, we’re never going to have the pull the Dragoons had on Outreach even if we open up the planet below as a proving ground.â€
“We have to be careful about that too, there are a lot of burial grounds on Galatea that no-one wants to see disturbed.â€
“There’s also a lot of old tech that could be salvaged opening it up to survey missions could bring in more revenue.â€
“Jerry, are you sure you’re a security chief and not an accountant?â€
“You know me, Mike, I’m always looking for a good deal.â€
“I hear Andrea is planning on coming here to work in one of the Halls?â€
“House Davion has given her a contract negotiation slot†Doyle said nodding he’d heard from his ex-wife as well “she’s going to be here infrequently travelling back and forth to Tikonov where her main office is going to be. We buried our feelings a long time ago†he said confirming it wouldn’t be a problem “I hear your new XO has been assigned.â€
“Claudia Christian†O’Hare confirmed “Isle of Skye born firebrand with some Tikonov DNA mixed in.â€
“Sounds like my kind of girl†Doyle joked
“Keep your nose clean old friend from what I’ve head she’s full on committed to Skye’s cause.â€
“And we’re supposed to be one big happy Lyran family†Doyle said winking as they walked through the crowd already a couple of small gift shops had opened on this gravity deck and people were frequenting them which was a good sign.
“What about your other project any leads?†O’Hare asked in a low voice.
“Well you guessed correctly you weren’t Arcturus’ or Skye’s first choice†Doyle said “you weren’t even on the first page of choices†he said breaking the news to his friend. “It’s all been kept quiet but there was significant Star League monies dropped into the Station’s construction budget especially over the last year or so. One of the last grants was authorized by Governor Bannister Cameron himself with a stipulation that he was allowed a say in who got the job.â€
“I don’t even know Cameron†he said thinking about the leader of the Star League Protectorate.
“You might not know him but he knows you and wanted you in charge of Galatea Station.â€
“Keep digging I’m not complaining that they gave me this job but I’d like to know where the motivation came from I don’t need surprises coming out of the woodwork as time goes on running this place is going to be difficult enough already.â€
“Come now, Commander, a two and a half million ton metal tube all alone in the darkest night what could go wrong?†The security chief joked as they moved through the facility both knowing that plenty could still change for the new station. Their job was to ignore the politics beyond the Galatea system and focus on making this new station a profitable enterprise and expand the mercenary trade in honour of the dead planet below.
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The Caliburn designed by Arvanna and modded with tech from this AU
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/caliburn-class-battle-cruiser/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/caliburn-class-battle-cruiser/)
And Galatea Station from a while ago
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/galatea-station/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/galatea-station/)
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My My My B5 alive and well in the BT UNIVERSE
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My My My B5 alive and well in the BT UNIVERSE
A small nod to the station
For the Federated Suns fans maybe skip this update as things are not going well...
Volcanic Eruption
Kirklin, Kestrel Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
4th September 3102
On Kirklin a minor volcanic eruption from the active super-volcano occurs near the capital city of Kooperville the eruption throws thousands of tons of ash into the air darkening parts of the sky and making flight through the atmosphere impossible. During the eruption two DropShips which had been trying to evacuate members of the civilian population are caught in the erupting ash cloud. One of the DropShips is forced to make an emergency landing as ash is drawn into its engine intakes causing its upward thrust to be cut below that would allow it to reach a stable orbit. The other DropShip, an aerodyne type vessel, is thrown into an unrecoverable flat spin the DropShip spun uncontrollably into the Great Peaks of Kirklin a mountain range to the south of the capital city. In total the two accidents cause six hundred-and-thirty-four deaths.
Military Parade
Robinson City, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Suns
18th September 3102
Christopher Grant did not know how here was here, opportunity had struck it appeared, as he moved the Warlord BattleMech alone with the other Mechs of the Third Robinson Rangers LCT. With the First Robinson Rangers off planet the monthly parade through Robinson City had fallen to the the Third Robinson at the last minute a member of that unit had fallen ill and Christopher had been picked to fill the slot. It was too much of a coincidence Christopher knew what had happened who had arranged for this. Until now Christopher had done nothing directly to harm the Federated Suns he could still pass everything off as a loyal member of the AFFS but he knew that he wasn’t that man any more.
As the unit filtered past the Sandoval Royal Residence there was a massive explosion up ahead on his sensors Christopher saw the Bounty Hunter’s Marauder and several other Mechs stepping in front of the LCT firing on the Third Robinson. Due to the tight confines of the city Christopher knew that the Third Robinson would struggle to bring fire on the Bounty Hunter’s Mech but he also knew this attack would spur an evacuation of the Sandoval Residence. “For those I have wronged forgive me†Christopher said activating his weapons systems immediately he targeted the BattleMaster in front of him with his Mech’s six medium lasers. At this range it was impossible to miss the six lasers cored through the armour on the back of the Mech melting its gyroscope and engine. Using the confusion of a Mech attacking them from within to his advantage Christopher leveled his Mech’s two Heavy Particle Cannons on the Sandoval Residence and fired both cannons tore through the front façade of the Residence causing massive damage not pausing Christopher fired again this time a Warden BattleMech stepped in the path of one shot blocking the blow but the second slammed into the building.
Before Christopher could survey the damage he had done several laser blasts slammed into the side of his Mech bringing him back to reality. The Bounty Hunter’s team were already fading away into the city and Christopher knew that if he was going to make his rendezvous with the Bounty Hunter he’d have to make some decisions. Twisting his Mech to the right he fired both of his particle cannons into a nearby office building and charged forward into its smashed front.
His eighty ton Warlord smashed into the building even as the other Robinson Mechs began to turn and began firing at him Christopher smashed forward through the building using its smashed remains to provide him with additional protection. Even for something as large and powerful as an eighty ton BattleMech smashing through a building of any size was not an easy proposition it slowed and did damage to the massive Warlord. Christopher saw a warning light as one of his medium lasers was damaged by the building but nothing else flashed up as he smashed through the other side into the Robinson City civilian traffic. Even as he pushed forward into the street crushing civilian vehicles under his Mech’s massive feet Christopher twisted the Warlord’s turret styled torso section and raised the left arm firing another particle cannon blast back into the ruined office building causing further damage and structural collapse.
Pushing forward at his Mech’s maximum speed Christopher fired the occasional shot at the pursuing Robinson Rangers unit but mostly concentrated on his escape. He knew the Rangers would be deploying across the city to pursue him and pursue the Bounty Hunter’s team but he also knew they’d be looking for the Warlord so Christopher had already made a plan escaping from the Rangers line of sight was the first part so he cut down opposite streets changing direction often intent on losing his opponents each direction change he made was intentional working his way towards the industrial section of the city finally he saw his target. Slamming through the entry gates Christopher ran the Warlord over towards two massive construction cranes halting beside one of them he hoped that the metal in the crane would hide the Warlord’s signature from the sensors of the pursing Rangers. Rapidly shutting down the Mech Christopher activated the rear hatch and quickly made his way out of the Warlord grabbing his bag on the way and descending down a chain-link ladder to the ground. Running across the yard he quickly disappeared into one of the warehouses reaching into his bag he quickly pulled out a set of coveralls and a hard helmet and quickly changed he then calmly walked across the yard completely ignoring the Warlord climbing into a civilian van, hot-wiring it and then driving calmly out of the yard.
Nearly three hours later Christopher arrived at the Bounty Hunter’s Mule-class DropShip hidden in the Robinson Forest an expansive nature reserve to the north of Robinson City. A single Shadow Hawk BattleMech stood guard waiting and allowed Christopher’s Pit Bull Medium Truck to enter the DropShip’s bay. He was shown to a waiting area where he parked the truck and and two guards led him through the ship to a set of quarters. Soon after the DropShip took off from the planet’s surface burning at more than 2G away from Robinson.
In the small quarters Christopher paced backwards and forwards wondering if he’d made the right choice. After all this time the cloak and dagger meetings did he really know his new employer was she going to pay him as she had promised? Walking back and forth he continued to wonder when the door opened revealing the Bounty Hunter, Aoife O’Kyan, standing waiting for him. “About time†he said frustrated waiting for so long “did we get away from Robinson?â€
“We are en route towards our JumpShip and we will soon be clear of this system.â€
“And where to from there?†Christopher asked “I am going to be wanted throughout the Federated Suns. The payment for this job will allow me to start a new life you said I take a shot at Sandoval and I’m done.â€
“Is that all you want?†She asked looking at him Christopher looked confused “there is a shelf-life to being what I am.†She explained “you can only fight these fights for so long and complete these jobs for a time. They take a toll on you which is something you should understand.â€
“Why should I need to understand this?â€
“Because after we make the next series of jumps I wish to turn the position of Bounty Hunter over to you. When I do my team will disappear as well it is the way of things.†She explained “I believe that Kafka and her team will remain on board, she has alternative motives for being on board, as may Gunther Dudsen since he’s wanted outside of this DropShip but for all intents and purposes the ship, crew and all the equipment on board will be yours as will my job.â€
“And you’ll just disappear?†He said weighing up the prospect the money from the job on Robinson would have paid for a new life anywhere in the Inner Sphere but this; this job could be a new life all on its own.
“And I’ll just disappear†she said smiling to herself she had long ago set up several alternate identities and had banked money in each state of the Inner Sphere ready for this day. There were even a few BattleMechs stored for her use should she need the use of one.
“Then I guess I should begin preparing for my new job†Christopher answered the Bounty Hunter accepting the position. Before they left the system they learned that Tancred Sandoval had been killed in the attack and that his twenty-two year old daughter Elaine Sandoval had been sworn in as the new leader of Robinson and of the Draconis March.
Abandoned NAIS Research Vault
Creos, Ryde
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd September 3102
It had taken them three months to dig through the snow and ice that had built up and covered the facility now standing in the main hanger bay Colonel Jarro of the Isle of Skye Military smiled at the sight around him. Arranged around the room were a dozen Mechs and vehicles equipped with advanced weapons and equipment and twelve pallets of light autocannons, Silver Bullet Gauss Rifles and ammunition for them. The NAIS had used the hostile environment on Ryde to test their equipment to breaking point.
For nearly fifty years the equipment had laid buried under the snow after the NAIS had abandoned the facility during the break-up of the Federated Commonwealth. Unknown to the Isle of Skye Military the opening of this vault triggers an automated black box transmitter buried deep inside the facility which sends a message to the NAIS informing of the vault’s opening.
Clan Enclave
Terra Firma, Star League Protectorate
29th September 3102
On the world of Terra Firma inside the walled Clan colony occupied by the Clans Hell’s Horses, Sea Fox and Wolf build a small factory capable of building the Emerald Harrier an Ultra-light BattleMech. This factory provides nearly seventy jobs to the Clansmen based at the Terra Firma enclave and is being built as a training and patrol Mech as it was used originally when built by Clan Jade Falcon. The SLDF monitor the situation carefully however as the Mech is not being produced in great numbers they do not stop the Clansmen building the Ultra-light design. The Sea Fox merchants based in the shadow of the crashed Pillar of Autumn offer the Emerald Harrier produced at the enclave in trade to the SLDF and to mercenary units based in the Star League Protectorate.
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Clan Raid
Tabayama, Tabayama Prefecture
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
3rd October 3102
Clan Nova Cat’s Alpha Galaxy raid Tabayama in the Draconis Combine following a vision by unit Mystic Star Colonel Alexi. During the attack the Mystic Alexi and Galaxy Commander Katherine Nostra are both killed along with almost a full cluster of Nova Cats. Overall the raid is a failure with the Clan handed a stinging defeat by the Second Genyosha and Second Midway Regulars Regiments. The only positive from the raid is that Clan Nova Cat is able to debut their newest WarShip a modified Marathon-class Battle-cruiser the Spirit of Destiny which destroys the Inazuma II-class Corvette DCS Sakura.
On their return to Clan Nova Cat territory there is anger within the Clan that a sub-par warrior was able to gain influence in a Nova Cat Galaxy without earning a Bloodname due to the “Mystic experiment.†Throughout the Nova Cats questions regarding the usefulness of the Mystic Caste are asked which distracts the Nova Cat warriors from other issues currently facing the Clan.
Khan Canin Rosse allows the warriors of the Clan Council to debate the Mystic Caste issue keeping the most senior of his warriors busy while pushing the Scientific Caste to answer questions about the problems facing their population on New Barcella as civilian casualties continue to rise from an unknown virus. The Nova Cat scientists admit that they are struggling to answer the Khan’s challenge alone. Khan Canin Rosse allows the Nova Cat scientists to approach the Scientific Research Station on Tukayyid for assistance while authorizing the Nova Cat warriors trapped on New Barcella behind the quarantine, enforced by the Nova Cat navy, to use their weapons against the population should trouble get out of hand.
Border Battles
Stone Spirit Territory
Periphery
13th October 3102
The Obsidian Lancers Mercenary Command assault the Stone Spirit system of Elba capturing it from the Stone Spirits for the Lyran Commonwealth in a lightning dawn assault spearheaded by their clan-tech equipped units. The Obsidian Lancers use their superior numbers of armour and infantry forces to push back the Stone Spirits in a series of confrontations. In line with the Obsidan Lancers assault Clan Mountain Wolf’s newest Clusters the Twenty-first Wolf BattleMech and the Twenty-seventh Wolf Champions are given their combat debut on Main Street as they to push against the Stone Spirits.
These assaults come in response to a series of Stone Spirit raids against the Lyran Commonwealth. Lyran High Command hopes that by assaulting two of the renegade clansmen’s holdings they will forestall any further attacks. Clan Mountain Wolf has its own reasons for supporting the Lyrans against the Stone Spirits blooding their newly raised commands. Khan Evan Kell suggests to the Lyrans that further assaults would send a clearer message to the Stone Spirits, while also allowing them to blood further commands, but the Lyrans are hesitant to bring further strikes from the Stone Spirits.
Trial of Position, Cyclone (Sea Fox ArcShip)
Twycross, Sea Fox Territory
Inner Sphere
28th October 3102
The kick caught Khan Hanna Coston across the side of the face knocking her to the left the paired follow up punches caught the Khan of guard knocking her to the ground. Evangeline Clarke was more numble than the older Khan and instantly moved for the kill dropping to her knees knocking the air from her lungs she leaned in and grabbed the dazed Khan by the neck twisting rapidly she snapped the Khan’s neck. Leaning forward she looked the dead woman in the face seeing her dead eyes raising up to her feet Evangeline looked around the stunned crowd surprised at what had taken place. “I am now Khan of the Sea Fox Clan†she declared looking around at the crowd.
“You will be Khan once the Council determines it†Galaxy Commander Stephen Faulk, leader of the Starstrike Khanate, declared stepping out of the crowd.
“Then assemble the Council†Evangeline demanded
“They are waiting in chambers until you have cleaned up.†Faulk said his words calming the crowd.
“Why wait let’s go†Evangeline said angrily stepping up from the broken body of Khan Hanna Coston following Faulk through the crowd. They traveled through the Cyclone without speaking a word making their way onto another gravity deck she stepped into a room and saw the five most senior warriors in Clan Sea Fox other than the Khan and Galaxy Commander Stephen Faulk. Faulk took his place around the table with the others while Evangeline remained standing. “What is going on? I defeated the Khan in a fair battle. I am a Khanate leader and I have served this Clan all my life there should be no obstacle to my rise to being Khan.â€
“Galaxy Commander, you took your issues directly to Hanna Coston ignoring the position of saKhan†Blake Hawker, the saKhan, said “why?â€
“I had an issue with the Khan not with you. I did what any Clan warrior should do if they are unhappy with their leadership.†Evangeline said bluntly “now will any of you contest my position as Khan?†She asked challenging them all with a single sentence she expected Stephen Faulk or Blake Hawker to be the ones to speak but none of them spoke. “Good†she said brushing some sweat clear from her brow she needed a shower and sometime to think but knew that these people would want some answers first. “It is time we began acting like a Clan. Our worlds are too spread out too isolated we will rectify this problem over the next few weeks. We will also see if any of your forces are able to complete the tasks set them.â€
“You question the abilities of your fellow Clansmen?†ovKhan Carlos Vewas, the leader of Predator Khanate, protested angrily raising to his feet.
“I do not know your forces†Evangeline Clarke admitted raising her hand to quell his protest. “I know that each of your Khanates is capable of trading and fighting for small amounts of equipment but proper organized Clan wide trials I do not know about.â€
“What is your plan?†Brad Hammond asked remaining in his chair.
“Over the next few weeks you will strike at the Hell’s Horses systems of Malibu, Butler, Waldorff, Apolakki and Evciler.â€
“The Hell’s Horses may not appreciate that†Loremaster Semi Kalasa said “the Jade Falcons agreed never to come back to this system. The Hell’s Horses have made no such agreement.â€
“Exactly†Evangeline said triumphantly “if there is a threat over this system our people might actually begin to consider their martial training to be as important as the power of their tongue.†She said briefing the other Khanate leaders “I will be announcing our attentions to Khan Cooper tomorrow morning and will assign your targets then as well.†She said “Loremaster Kalasa your Khanate, lacking the ground forces for a trial, will travel to Alpheratz and trial for one of the Snow Raven’s Splendid-class Cruisers.â€
“We could trade for the craft†Semi Kalasa noted
“Correct but that will not test your forces nor will it send a message to the other Clans that we are a force to be reckoned with.â€
“It could bring the Eyre of the other Clans on us ending us†Blake Hawker noted.
“Neg they still need us to produce Harjel our scientists are the best at that and our Clan is the only one that all the Clans know will trade the substance. If Clan Wolf or Clan Hell’s Horses claimed this system the others would not be amused.†Evangeline Clarke replied
“It still would help our people who had been killed†Semi Kalasa replied
“That is the Clan way, the Founder’s way; it is time our Clan honoured that.â€
Over the coming weeks new Khan Evangeline Clarke announced the Sea Fox’s intention to move against Hell’s Horses targets. The Sea Foxes were successful in wresting control over Waldorff and Apolakki failing to capture Malibu, Butler and Evciler. Semi Kalasa’s forces also failed to capture the Splendid-class Cruiser from the Snow Ravens with Loremaster Semi Kalasa killed in the fighting against the Ravens. Following another series of trials ovKhan Damien Kalasa becomes Loremaster of the Sea Foxes.
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The Marathon 2 has a new name Vision Seeker my thanks to Abele for suggesting it
My thanks to James Tanaga for the Rim Collection scene
Jade Falcon assaults
Lyran Commonwealth
8th November 3102
Clan Jade Falcon crosses the Lyran Commonwealth border assaulting Atocongo, Timkovichi and Santana. On Atocongo Clan Mountain Wolf put up a spirited defence losing two full Clusters of warriors fighting the Jade Falcons before the Tenth Mountain Guards Cluster defended against the final assaults of Clan Jade Falcon which allowed dozens of civilians and traders to escape. The Tenth Mountain lost nearly half its strength in the defence but it was able to destroy the command elements of the Second Falcon Velites and the First Falcon Strike Clusters in the battle which disorganized the remaining Jade Falcons turning the battle into a general melee. After the Tenth’s escape from Atocongo both Jade Falcon clusters were struck from the Jade Falcon’s rolls by an angry Khan Ruel Chistu. The battles on Timkovichi and Santana were far more one-sided with both falling to the Jade Falcons within hours of the Clan’s landing on the planet.
At the same time as the Jade Falcon assaults on the Lyran Commonwealth Clan Hell’s Horses struck at the rear areas of Clan Jade Falcon seizing Benfeld and Ballymore. With the Jade Falcons increasing their territory and the Hell’s Horses increasing the size of their border with the Lyran Commonwealth Khan Evan Kell, of Clan Mountain Wolf, begins to worry about the security of his Clan on Arc Royal and begins to consider an alternate to remaining on the planet.
Federated Suns Embassy
Gilfillan’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
11th November 3102
Matthew Davion sat in the bench as he relaxed in the small park that sat just inside the Federated Suns embassy, watching his daughter Victoria playing with other children in the small playground. He smiled congenially as she stopped and waved at him before returning to playing with the other children. While work may have brought him to the embassy for the day, it allowed him to spend much of the day with his little girl, something that meant more to him then he had thought possible when he first started the relationship with Karen.
“Your daughter seems at home here,†answered the man sitting to his left.
“You sound a bit surprised, sir. After all, she’s half a Davion,†he rebutted with pride as he continued to watch his daughter play.
“And the other half an Able,†Damien Redburn warned, causing Matt to turn and face the Federated Suns ambassador, his nominal superior.
“Still think Karen decided to jump in bed with the SLDF, I take it,†he asked humorously a moment later.
Damien Redburn sighed. “Your ‘Princely Cousin’ as you like to call him would have rather kept the Caliburn-class to only the Rim Collection and the Federated Suns, Matt. Turning her back on her allies like she did forced his hand.â€
Matt turned away from his superior. “She received the news earlier, sir,†he commented idly as his eyes caught his daughter’s Rim Watch bodyguards being shadowed by FedSuns personnel, though at a distance. “I had guessed it was her pregnancy hormones talking until the right hook she gave me.â€
Redburn shook his head humorously. “The sacrifices we make for the realm, Commodore.â€
“But some sacrifices are so much worth it, don’t you think sir?†was Matt’s grin full rebuttal, causing the ambassador to laugh.
“Joking aside,†Matt continued a moment later. “The President was just as shocked as the First Prince was when the SLDF showcased their Caliburns. She thought we had given the SLDF the designs not the other way around.â€
“That doesn’t make sense, Matt. How could the SLDF have grabbed your designs without help from the Rim Collection?â€
“Hopefully this will be the answer,†Matt informed him as he handed a thick folder to Ambassador Redburn.
Opening the folder up, Redburn glanced through the contents. “SLIC? Is this a joke Matt,†he asked, not believing what he was seeing. Flicking through the pages, the colored photos of two men and a woman stood out.
“No sir. The Rim Collection Security Services arrested them three a week ago. Inside their lodgings, they found evidence of the Caliburn leak. The three will be released to the Star League with a warning in two days,†Matt concluded.
“Any idea how they found out about the Caliburns?†Damien asked, studying the pictures a bit more.
“Rim Collection Intelligence has no idea, but their file on the woman is a bit thicker than the two men. Apparently, she works for the Rim Collection’s Department of Communications. They believe she found out via a stray message from our embassy to the Rim Collection Touman since her position didn’t allow her to study Rim Collection encryption and the three had an old copy of our code book, sir,†Matt speculated.
Redburn flipped through the pages, than settled on one to study further. “This file is pretty deep, judging from the fact they included said code book into it, Commodore,†Damien commented.
“The advantages of being the President’s lover, Mr. Ambassador,†Matt replied humorously. “That and the Collection’s intelligence and investigation services have become downright scary over the past few years.â€
Redburn nodded at that. “They returned our own DMI intelligence agents as well. Every six months, they round them up and return them to the embassy, like clockwork. They don’t ever get them all but the question always hangs over – did they leave the rest for the next round up?†The Ambassador mused overall the DMI operations in the Rim Collection were very limited and focused on the Mandrills and on gathering intelligence on the Stone Spirits but the Rim Collection’s own Watch was showing itself very effective.
“It’s almost like the Rim Collection Intelligence is using our agents as training. That or a game, sir†Matt said showing his own thoughts mirrored those of Redburn. “And whenever I broach the topic to Karen, she just smiled and shrugs,†Matt added.
Redburn nodded. “At least they return them to us. Less said about the Lyran agents the better,†he let that matter go, sighing, as he closed the thick folder and put it down beside him.
A few moments passed as they continued to watch Victoria play in front of them. “Any news on if my cousin will be allowing Able Arms to submit a bid to buy Avalon Arms Company?†Matt asked. “Karen is stressed her company has yet to receive permission.â€
Redburn nodded thoughtfully. Avalon Arms produced Kruger reconnaissance vehicles for the AFFS and was a highly successful company for its size. A week before the SLDF’s unveiling of its two brand new Caliburn battle-cruisers, the private company had publicly began looking to merge itself with other military contractors roughly its own size or smaller.
“I doubt the First Prince will allow that, Matt. The Caliburn leak although an SLIC operation still happened on Rim Collection soil and hasn’t gone down too well on New Avalon.†Damien commented back to put it ‘hasn’t gone down too well’ was putting it mildly from what Damien had heard officials on New Avalon were raging at the SLIC actions. Unfortunately they were too embarrassed and wished to save face to mention it publicly in some ways Damien wondered if a war between the intelligence agencies was inevitable without a real war to distract them. Both turned to watch Victoria run with to the swings with another girl and her close protection minder, a female Watch bodyguard.
“A long while,†Matt informed the other man nonchalantly. Both men knew the effects of the First Prince not allowing Able Arms a shot at Avalon Arms, though Matt didn’t say anything. Able Arms had only an outside shot of being taken seriously in the bidding anyways they were on the other side of the Inner Sphere and though well funded would not be able to directly control the company instead offering only financial investments. Rim Motors had a better chance until the Caliburn situation had unfolded, yet had decided not to be included in the bidding.
As the female bodyguard began pushing the girls’ swings, Ambassador Redburn continued. “Tell me. I know Rim Motors recently acquired Millennium Industries on Terra. Is the company financially solvent enough to truly acquire Avalon Arms?†The Rim Collection’s interest in companies beyond its own borders was troubling, Redburn know that they worried about the Stone Spirits and relations with the Lyrans were still not brilliant but the Rim Collection’s ambition was startling.
The question caused Matt to snap his head to face Redburn in record time. “That would mean-,†he was cut off.
“He is open to allowing Rim Motors into the upcoming bidding war. I wouldn’t read too much into it,†Redburn chided the younger man, still watching Victoria and the other girl play on the swings.
It took Matt a moment to process what it meant. “Despite the loss of the Caliburn design, the First Prince would like the Rim Collection to remain as a possible counterweight to the Lyrans and it gives us a platform to watch the Stone Spirit threat which he takes seriously. Publicly welcoming Rim Motors an opportunity to acquire Avalon Arms after dismissing Able Arms, he sends a strong message the alliance with the Collection remains intact,†Matt concluded as he turned his gaze back to the girls.
“Don’t know if the opportunity is only for public consumption myself, but it’s something for Rim Motors to look into,†Redburn advised. “If it’s the real thing….â€
Matt nodded. He understood all too well what it meant. “Seems the First Prince is no longer gambling on my children becoming the future rulers of the Rim Collection,†he commented nonchalantly a moment later.
“Blame Karen Able, not him,†Redburn commented back just as nonchalantly.
“Not blaming, just commenting,†Matt answered in kind. “And I don’t judge him. The factions within the Collection are acting like children, save for the Mandrills. Hiberius and Able are in a state of cold war with one another over who should lead, with smaller factions jockeying around and attempting power plays with one another. Stewart and the Trinity worlds are the new kids on the block and still learning the ropes while trying not to step on any one’s shoes. Finmark-Caldarium the troublesome brother attempting to rile the other factions into rescuing Lost from the Lyrans,†he summarized, sighing.
“Intel suggests the First Prince’s refusal to allow Able Arms into the bidding and switching his support to Rim Motors will cause Karen Able to support the Finmark-Caldarium faction into attacking Lost,†the ambassador inquired.
“Not directly, but it will force Karen Able into fully supporting plans which already been set into motion,†Matt answered as he rested his head in his right hand thinking as he watched his daughter run from the swings to the slides. “The militia and resistance forces on Lost are expected to take the planetary HPG any day now. When it happens, Karen will send the Rim Rangers and Forth Rim Lancers CCT’s to Lost as peacekeepers.â€
Damien nodded. “And with them in place, hold the planet until a referendum to join the Collection passes. Democracy at its finest,†he bit out.
“Democracy is overrated and outdated,†Matthew rebutted despite the recent announcement in the Free Worlds League about a reformed parliament the Inner Sphere had long regarded the concept as a dead one. “But the illusion of democracy is not. And by supporting the Finmark-Caldarium faction into getting the Lyrans to withdraw from Lost, it will force a détente between the Able and Hiberius factions, for at least a little while.â€
“Or a civil war. Your lover supporting the Finmark-Caldarium faction in this way will weaken her position militarily within the Collection,†Redburn reminded him.
“And that is why I said the Mandrills are behaving like adults. Their Khans privately informed both Karen and Hall they don’t care who starts a civil war, but they WILL end it,†Matt countered as he leaned back into the bench the Clan faction did not get involved politically in the Rim Collection they remained within their enclaves and continued to grow in strength. The recent announcement by the Mandrills that they would intervene in any active conflict had given both sides a pause to consider. “Being forced into backing the Finmark-Caldarium faction actually strengthens her position politically since Karen will be publicly showing she is putting the good of the Collection before the good of her own faction.â€
“And why I hope the First Prince allows Rim Motors a real opportunity in the upcoming bidding war. Rim Motors has become a reliably politically neutral and independent party within the Collection. Strengthening its position within the Suns means the company can better act in our nation’s best interests,†the ambassador supplied.
Matthew Davion nodded. His family particularly had an interest in Avalon Arms Company, he well knew and wisely did not disclose to the ambassador. Matt hoped to inherit the said interest to better safeguard his growing position and the future of his children within the Collection he knew that the majority of the production would still go into the AFFS but any technical breakthroughs and at least some production would make its way to the Collection.
“I better leave you with your daughter Commodore,†Ambassador Redburn finally replied, standing up, picking up the thick folder by his side as he did so. “Have a good day with your daughter and make sure to give Intel a report on the Collection’s planned operation on Lost by thirteen hundred hours tomorrow.â€
“Yes sir,†Matt replied as he stood and saluted the aging general, who returned in kind before leaving him to watch his daughter finish playing in the playground.
The very next day, the Federated Suns Ministry of Commerce and Trade publicly unveils a list of companies given permission to be included in the upcoming bidding war for Avalon Arms Company. The short list of fifteen companies for the most part is restrained to companies already operating within the Federated Suns, though does include three Lyran and two Star League companies, as well as the surprising entrant of Rim Motors, not the expected Able Arms, of the Rim Collection. When queried about why, the minister only replies that Rim Motors is now the more trusted of the two Rim Collection companies.
Planetary Assault
Royal, Matsuida Prefecture
Midway District of Midway, Draconis Combine
16th November 3102
Driven by anger at the assassination of Duke Tarncred Sandoval, and that they were not there, the First Robinson Rangers RCT launch an unprovoked assault on the system of Royal. The Ryuken-Ni Brigade of the DCMS who were defending the system out manuver the AFFS troops with the assistance of the Getting There Faster Mercenary Armour Battalion and Coulier’s Cossacks Mech Battalion. Within hours of their landing on Royal the First Robinson Rangers find themselves surrounded inside the City of Banchory. On the fourth day of the siege Tai-sa Pierrette Van Rumpade, the commander of the Ryuken-Ni, calls for a cease fire with the Robinson Rangers to allow the civilian population to leave the city.
Civil Disturbance
Lost, Inarcs Theatre
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
17th November 3102
In an intense firefight, Lost militia and resistance members hidden in a crowd of civilian protestors storm the planetary HPG and call for the freedom of Lost and aid from the Rim Collection. The Lyran authorities, backed by the Obsidian Lancers mercenary regiment, violently retake the facility six hours later, killing forty-three and wounding over a hundred and fifty protestors and resistance members while during the recapture. News of this bloody disturbance quickly spreads around the world’s small population leading to further disturbances.
Deep strike
Sarna, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
22nd November 3102
Following a DMI Intelligence report that St Ives had been copied into Duchess Jaylen Davion leads two combined-arms Battalions with aerospace fighter support in a raid on the system of Sarna believing that her husband Duke Tristan Allard-Liao was being held in a military prison on the planet. For three hours the St Ives Lancers fought and defeated a small contingent of the First Capellan Defence Force securing the prison. Jaylen’s forces remained on Sarna for a further two days searching the prison facility and its attached annexes unfortunately not finding Tristan the Lancers evacuated Sarna before further Capellan units arrived in the area their mission an unfortunate failure. On their return from Sarna Jaylen Davion received a reprimand from her father First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion on her behaviour. While publicly Jaylen acknowledged her father’s message and agreed to refrain from further actions privately Jaylen had already begun to plan her next mission in search of Tristan. As news of Jaylen’s plans leaked out her dedication to this cause had won the hearts and minds of St Ives and the population was fully behind her.
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Time to end 3102
Peacekeeping Mission
Lost, Inarcs Theatre
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
1st December 3102
With continued problems on the world of Lost the Rim Collection military act as Matthew Davion had predicted the Rim Rangers and Fourth Rim Lancers CCT’s jump into the system and surprises the defenders, quickly forcing themselves onto the planet’s surface they link up with resistance and militia forces. Using heavy support from aerospace, armor, and power armor assets and fighting unlike other Clan forces, using stealth and concentrated fire the Rim Collection forces maul smaller Obsidian Lancers Mercenary detachments and force the larger ones back into their fire-base. Uncharacteristically, the Rim Collection forces do not push the attack and instead they allow the mercenaries to remain active as long as they avoid the Rim Collection units.
Meanwhile, Karen Able publicly acknowledges the attack on Lost, stating the objective is merely peacekeeping in nature to stop further over reactions from the Lyran hired mercenaries and the Lyran Commonwealth loyal militia unit she invites the Lyran Archon and the SLDF to assist in peacekeeping efforts on Lost while calling for a referendum to take place in a year’s time. Although angry at the presence of the Rim Collection troops on Lost Archon Jessica Steiner does not wish to see another open conflict between the Commonwealth and the Rim Collection and grudgingly accepts the agreement she selects the still rebuilding Fifth Alliance Guards and the Fourteenth Lyran Regulars RCT’s to deploy to Lost in the following weeks to work with the Rim Collection forces. Both sides wisely choose to keep their warships at home to keep the tense situation from developing further. As the house troops deploy on the planet the Lyran Commonwealth recall the Obsidian Lancers from Lost in an attempt to lower the tension which also allows the Lancers to heal some of their wounds.
Supervolcanic Eruption
Kirklin, Kestrel Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
9th December 3102
A supervolcanic eruption occurs on Kirklin after months of minor eruptions. The initial blast almost completely destroys the capital city of Kooperville killing nearly a quarter million people, including the planetary Duke, and destroys the primary spaceport. Atmospheric ash causes thrown out by the eruption causes three DropShips to crash on take off. Within hours of the initial eruption all communication with the planet completely fails as the atmosphere thickens with the ash. With more than three quarters of a million people still on the planet the AFFS continue to attempt to land on the planet for more than a month with mixed success, of four rescue missions only one is successful evacuating nearly six hundred civilians, despite these failures the AFFS continue to attempt to land on the planet but after three months, with ash levels continuing to rise and surface temperatures always below zero, High Command calls off further attempts abandoning hope of rescuing more people from the planet. The AFFS place four Class 14 Watcher Sats in orbit around the planet to listen for any transmissions from the planet from survivors who had survived the eruption and freezing temperatures underground.
Tour
Gallery, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
19th December 3102
It felt wrong walking across the windswept plains of Gallery while their borders were under attack with Clan Hell’s Horses landing on the world of Pandora but here was where Khan Evan Kell, of the Mountain Wolves, and Archon Jessica Steiner, of the Lyran Commonwealth, needed to be for the future of Clan Mountain Wolf and very possibly the Lyran Commonwealth. “It is desolate†Evan Kell said looking at Jessica Steiner.
“Yes it is, continuous high winds and storms, but in all the centuries of the Lyran Commonwealth Gallery has been attacked once and even then it was a complete failure.†The Archon replied looking the young Khan he was a very attractive man and if Jessica had not met her husband she could have imagined chasing the Mountain Wolf leader’s affection. “This planet’s atmosphere, the storms and a network of underground tunnels make attacking this planet very difficult due to the poor weather not many wish to make their homes here so there is plenty of space for what you want.â€
“My Mountain Wolf engineers will build the facility in secret I will give you three locations where we may be so any local construction remains clear of us.†He said bargaining with her it was very possible this construction would safe his Clan in the future should Arc Royal fall.
“That shouldn’t be a problem Gallery is a personal holding of my family I will ensure that no-one strays near your Repository and the Commonwealth’s payment?†She said she wished to help save the Mountain Wolves but her Commonwealth needed something of substance from them.
“I will have our engineers begin construction of the Pouncer OmniMech line for your use we will help you build it wherever you wish with all production primarily going to the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces.†Evan promised it was a tough loss an entire production line, the Mountain Wolves could have used, but having a repository further from the front-lines would safeguard his Clan’s future. “Meanwhile my Clusters are stepping up their efforts to retake Cumbres and Summit system and strengthening our defences around Arc Royal.â€
Hall of the Clans, Great Hall
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space, Inner Sphere
28th December 3102
Following the death of Loremaster of the Clans Zane Carns on Tukayyid during a Mech test, in what could only be described as a freak accident where one leg of the Mech buckled under the weight smashing the cockpit killing the MechWarrior a new Loremaster had been selected. With none of the Clan Loremasters interested in the position a traditional Grand Melee was called by the Grand Council now following that augmented battle only one warrior remained Star Colonel Miguel Icaza of Clan Jade Falcon. The hulking Elemental had proven to be too strong and too agile for the best of all the other Clans including warriors from the Hell’s Horses and Ghost Bears who prided themselves on having the best Elemental Corps. Now as the Loremaster of the Clans Icaza promised the assembled Warriors of the Ebon Guard Galaxy, Tukayyid’s primary defenders, that they would participate more in Clan affairs in the future and would not purely be restricted to defending Tukayyid and its factories from Clan Trials.
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Into 3103
3103
Royal meeting, O’Brian family residence
York, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
5th January 3103
Sitting at his pinewood table Duke Eobard O’Brian the leader of York looked at the leaders of Loxley and Lancaster. “Our worlds have been linked for centuries†he said glancing at the two leaders “all of our peoples though separated by light-years of space were founded by the same people and have always maintained a good relationship.†He began “however recently we’ve all suffered losses to raiders and the Brotherhood of Cincinnatus†he continued Duke Ross McEwen nodded his agreement Loxley had suffered a defection of a lance of Mechs from their militia force. The resulting firefight had cost nearly one hundred lives and millions of C-Bills of damage. Lancaster had lost nearly a company of their militia force to a pirate force. “The LCAF have done everything they can to help defend our planets but they are overstretched with border conflicts.â€
“We cannot afford enough mercenary cover for all of our planets and even if we could once their contracts are up we’d back back in the same position again.†Duchess Sara MacLean of Lancaster said she was the youngest of the three having inherited leadership from her father only a couple of years ago.
“Then we don’t rely on mercenaries.†O’Brian said handing them each a ring binder folder. Both Duke and Duchess began to read Ross McEwen was the first to stop.
“What is this?†He asked not accusing but obviously concerned.
“Between our three systems we control two JumpShips, one in my family and one in the service of the MacEwen family; between the Lyran militia forces on each of our planets we have approximately six combined arms regiments. Over the next three years I propose that we each add a regiment each to these units, infantry, armour, aerospace or Mech we buy what we can get and add them, then we cross train them, say a battalion at a time rotated through each of our worlds training against each other and learning each world’s terrain.â€
“Units which are owned and financed by the Lyran State†Sara MacLean pointed out “we cannot just take command of these units.â€
“In terms of crisis rulers of each planetary system within the Lyran Commonwealth may take all efforts to protect their home system.†O’Brian said quoting the Lyran Commonwealth leader’s playbook “House Steiner trusts us to watch over these systems. We are making every effort to defend our planets.â€
“To defend their home system†Ross McEwen quoted “we are talking about seizing LCAF assets and augmenting them with our own the Archon could consider this to be our own personal army.â€
“What benefit would it be for us to mix our commands?†Sara MacLean asked
“After the first three years we will have approximately nine combined arms regiments. I propose we break them into LCT sized units that will be easier to be transported on our JumpShips and. Between nine regiments we should have four or five separate commands which we can deploy. One each will be deployed on each of our worlds while the fourth, and fifth if we’re able, will rotate between those three worlds is we say every six months?†Eobard asked
“Moving between York and Lancaster would be easy enough but it would Loxley exposed. A single LCT may not be enough to hold up an enemy force.†Ross McEwen argued York and Lancaster were within a jump of each other while Loxley was far further away in the Coventry Province meaning his world may be exposed.
“Which is why I would like to propose a second phase to this operation†Eobard said it was written in the folders he had given them but saying it out loud would probably have the greatest effect “between us and over the next ten years we purchase an additional three JumpShips to be shared between our worlds. Civilian and military could use them it would increase our tourism and increase our trading power in the heart of the Commonwealth.†He saw their shocked looks JumpShips were a lot more popular now than they were in the past but still they were massively expensive to operate and crew. “We could then have one of the JumpShips waiting on standby between our systems and Loxley at all times without affecting our trade basically our own command circuit.â€
“If the Archon knew we were doing this she’d have our heads†Sara MacLean said
“All we’re doing is talking, for the benefit of the Commonwealth and its citizens†Eobard O’Brian countered “if we agree to this I will send our idea to the Archon informing her of our plans if High Command has any objections then I’m sure we’ll hear of it. Because the personnel and equipment will technically belong to the LCAF I don’t think we will have many problems. The JumpShips should we proceed with our second phase would increase Commonwealth internal transport between systems increasing trade I can’t see a drawback.†Eobard O’Brian noted.
“What if command tries to relocate them? We will have given them a line unit that is the equivalent to a full RCT it will be very tempting for them to use the command.†Ross pointed out what they were doing had been done before with militia and garrison units clubbed together to form new commands. Something similar was happening in the Federated Suns as they tried to rebuild many of their battered commands after many conflicts taking companies and battalions from militia units and expanding them into full regiments to support larger combat formations.
“The High Command won’t like our units because they are based on a Federated Suns concept. If we really wanted to distastes them we could deploy our units as Combat Commands from the Ceti Hussars instead which would really get up their nose.†Eobard said smiling at the thought of it even if High Command did want their units all of the equipment would still be of militia grade it would be pointless putting them in a proper combat situation. Pirate hunting was one thing fighting a war was another. “I will also propose to the Archon that someone from one of our worlds oversees these units and ensures they remain linked to our homes.â€
“You then†Ross McEwen said it wasn’t a question instead a matter of fact.
“I retired from being a warrior a long time ago†Eobard said not mentioning he did still have his Zeus in his personal hanger three levels below them and that he was still certified on the Mech. “I will suggest that us three oversee them initially and then eventually an officer from these commands talks operational control. Obviously if they needed to fight then a proper LCAF commander would need to be in command but we can support them and keep them in shape.â€
“I like it†Sara MacLean finally said “it will bring our three worlds closer together than ever. It will honour our founders and it will give our people something to focus on.â€
“I too agree in principle however should it become financially enviable or we are defended no better than before then I will reserve the right to withdraw Loxley from this enterprise.â€
“Of course, but you won’t because it will work†Duke Eobard O’Brian said smiling confident that they were taking steps in the right direction.
As confidence boomed on York confidence too was high in the Korbin’s Kommandos camp as the mercenaries under contract with the Lyran Intelligence Command engaged and destroyed almost two full battalions worth of Brotherhood of Cincinntus followers on Inarcs. Working on intelligence gained by the LIC the Kommandos had set up two days before the Brotherhood even arrived. As their Mechs moved on the Inarcs militia troops Korbin’s Kommandos Infantry Strike Company had hit the Brotherhood units from behind aiming specifically at several command and support vehicles. At least one Mobile HQ vehicle had been destroyed in the fighting along with the Brotherhood’s operational commander. With the LIC already feeding the Kommandos with a new set of target locations the Brotherhood of Cincinnatus’ rebellion against the LCAF was faltering rapidly.
Break-out
Royal, Matsuida Prefecture
Midway District of Midway, Draconis Combine
12th January 3103
In response to the First Robinson Rangers RCT being surrounded on Royal the Draconis March commanders deploy the unit’s sister regiment the Second Robinson Rangers RCT along with the WarShip FSS Pegasus to the system. The FSS Pegasus ranges ahead of the Second Robinson Rangers destroying the Ryuken-ni’s aerospace forces and four Pocket WarShips with concentrated fire of naval particle cannon fire, naval lasers and capital missiles. When the Second Robinson Rangers arrived in orbit and began their landings on the planet the AFFS dominated the skies over the ground battle this allowed the Robinson Rangers unit to land unmolested.
With support in the skies the Second Robinson Rangers moved quickly against the DCMS forces smashing into their right flank with enough firepower to immediately crush an entire Battalion of the Ryuken-ni and create a safe zone which the surviving First Robinson Rangers are able to use to evacuate. The commander of the Second Robinson Rangers Major-General Coran Matteo does not push the attack against the DCMS unit instead he orders his troops to maintain positions rebuffing the Ryuken-ni’s attacks. With full aerospace support the Second are able to hold position for nearly four hours as the First evacuates their wonded and then fall back to their DropShips. After sustaining hours of air strikes the Ryuken-ni allow the Robinson Rangers to evacuate the planet with little further combat.
Nova Cat Evacuation
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th January 3103
An orbital camera turned slowly from New Avalon onto what looked like an armada of ships most obvious was the Hanse Davion II, a First Prince Block II-class Battleship, the large red and black hull flew alongside another two large vessels which were painted in a dark blue with lighter highlights. Below them the Congress Block II-class Frigate FSS Nathan Duvall shadowed the formation while all around there were at least a dozen DropShips some painted in the red of House Davion while others were painted in dark blue. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Austyn Warren of Federated Suns News, what you are seeing is not an invasion force against New Avalon instead this is a Nova Cat transport force here to remove all traces of the Clan from New Avalon. The agreement made by First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion which placed Nova Cat military forces on this planet and an Embassy in the city of Glasgow that agreement has finally been rescinded by the First Prince and now the AFFS is escorting the Nova Cat transport ships to begin the evacuation. The Clan forces have agreed to leave without any further problems accepting the First Prince’s offer for what the Nova Cat Ambassador described as ‘Hegira’, which is the Clan word for an honourable retreat, he went onto say that Clan Nova Cats continued to hold not hostile intent against the Federated Suns.†He said pausing for a moment as the ships passed by the camera “reports from the Periphery border and from sources within the Filtvelt Coalition appear to refute this with one report suggesting that the Clan recently seized Lackland within the Filtvelt Coalition. The battle which reports suggest resulted in the destruction of two full regiments of Filtvelt’s defenders.†He said on the screen the Nova Cat WarShips were assuming a high orbit over New Avalon while DropShips were nearing the atmosphere.
The camera suddenly cut to the studio showing Austyn Warren, he was in his early thirties, and looked like he should be in a military unit instead of on the national news, standing in a commercial studio beside his beautiful blonde co-host. “In other news†she said as the screen to their left changed showing a picture of Fredrick Davion dressed in his AFFS dress uniform. “The First Prince’s second born son Fredrick Davion has become a father with the birth of his daughter Elizabeth on Argyle. Fredrick’s wife Duchess Nikki Davion is reported as doing well while Fredrick is reportedly taking a few days away from his command to spend with his new daughter.â€
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Jade Falcon Assault
Deia, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
9th February 3103
The attack on Deia had been expected following reports of Jade Falcons on Morges, Yeguas and Great X but the ferocity of the Jade Falcons had taken the defenders by surprise. In less than six hours the Clan warriors had torn the Eleventh Lyran Guards RCT and two supporting mercenary commands to pieces ripping through them rapidly occupying the capital and spaceport. Leutenant Jason Sortek had escaped the initial attack because his Zeus X had been dedicated to base defence and because he had seen what was happening and decided that action was needed. Now sixteen hours after the initial attack Jason Sortek led a company of Lyran Guard Mechs, three surviving Mercenary Mechs and a collection of armoured vehicles and APCs carrying support staff. He had pulled out of the Eleventh’s base escorting civilian dependents and techs who needed defended from the Clan advance he had gone fighting off the Jade Falcons bringing with him two MechWarriors from his lance over the four hours that had followed he’d linked up with several Mechs from the Eleventh and the mercenary commands not a single officer had survived the Jade Falcon assault.
Climbing from his Mech in the huge cave that his remaining forces had called home Jason looked around at the battered battalion that was left to him. To him. It felt wrong he was a Leftenant he didn’t have the experience to command these people. A warrior ran up to him “Senior Sergeant-Major Harry Garvey sir†he said saluting Jason he was an older man as most NCOs were Jason guessed he had probably seen a dozen conflicts before today unlike him who was in about his fourth fight, which was probably going to be his last.
“Drop the salute Sergeant there isn’t enough of us to care.†He said looking around “what do you think?â€
“Sir, the other warriors, both armour and Mech, agree you should remain in command.†He said confirming what Jason had hoped was not true “we’ve decided that you should hold the honourary rank of Kommandant until this conflict has ended†he said Jason remained silent “Kommandant†the Sergeant reinforced the new rank in his mind “we have twenty-two BattleMechs in various states of repair, along with eighteen armoured vehicles, twenty-four battle armour suits and the rest are conventional infantry and nearly one hundred-and-forty civilians.†He said breaking down the unit list like any good NCO should do the civilians would be the hardest to evacuate and defend.
“I’m just a Leftenant not a Kommandant, Garvey, what am I supposed to do?â€
“Command, sir†the older man said “and preferably you get us the hell off this planet, sirâ€
“The only real option we have is Alternate Zulu†he said naming an evacuation point “they were never set for us†he admitted. Alternate Zulu was a single Overlord-class DropShip designed to evacuate the survivors of the unit if everything went to hell there was no guarantee they’d get all their equipment on board the DropShip but they would be able to evacuate their personnel.
“We make do with what we have got, Kommandant, we make do.â€
“Yes, we do Sergeant-Major, but we’re not getting anywhere without some rest have Harrison and Clarence remains in their Mechs everyone else stands down and gets four hours kip. Martin and Keys replace them in four hours then Harrison and Clarence get some rest. We leave at first light.â€
The night passed without incident and the remains of the Eleventh were ready to move out by 0800. They’d traveled for nearly four hours without any issue making good progress towards their DropShip before encountering a Jade Falcon patrol. “Assault Lance with me†Sortek called out “everyone else keeps going to the DropShip Sergeant-Major Garvey is in charge.â€
“You’re outnumbered two to one†Garvey protested
“Protect the civilians now go†Sortek ordered swapping over to the dedicated channel for the assault lance, his lance he knew each of them and their Mechs every little detail that could cause them problems in the coming fight. “It’s simple we delay them while trying to get out of here in one piece.â€
“Simple boss†MechWarrior Terry Dorn repeated from his Hauptmann OmniMech, it was their most advanced Mech other than Sortek’s Zeus X so it would likely be a prime target.
“Yes it is look where they are standing†he said the others saw the Falcons were standing on hardened lava “target the ground around them if we can break it then we can mess with their cooling maybe take one or two of them out.â€
“And if we can’t break through we’ll just give them a free shot on us.†Janice Parry said quietly from her Salamander.
“No free shots today make yours count†Sortek said even as the Jade Falcons began to fire on them he said all four Lyran Mechs targeted the ground under the Clansmen. Almost immediately the ground began to crack under the weight of the Lyran Mechs “hit it again!†Sortek called out as Muniez Highlander took a particle cannon blast high to the torso. This time they broke the ground under the Jade Falcons sending a Black Lanner BattleMech into the molten lava below burning the Mech’s armour. Other Mechs fell into the lava following the other Mech “back up†Sortek ordered “target the Mechs†he ordered as a Summoner and the Black Lanner climbed out of the lava and began firing. A Turkina stood its ground inside the lava firing its massive long range missile racks at them despite the obvious heat the Mech was in. As more of the Jade Falcons climbed out of lava their Mechs were taking heavier fire even as they retreated “Janice swap to Thunder rounds empty your bays I want the thickest minefield you can lie between us and them Terry take her fire!†He called out Janice’s Salamander had several tons worth of missile deployed mines while Terry’s Mech had the heaviest armour between them.
“Thanks boss†Terry replied as he moved his Hauptmann to cover Janice’s Salamander immediately taking a gauss rifle shot to the left arm.
“That’s a lot of mines†Janice pointed out firing a full salvo of missiles immediately scattering mines them and the incoming Falcons the battered Black Lanner bearing the worse of the damage as several mines struck the Mech’s feet knocking it to the ground as the OmniMech hit the ground several more mines exploded destroying the cockpit of the Jade Falcon Mech.
“The cost is not coming out of your pocket MechWarrior drop them†Sortek replied firing his weapons at a Jade Falcon Mech. “Keep backing up†Sortek said as his Mech was struck by an autocannon blast. He knew that despite all their efforts the Jade Falcons would soon make their way past the mines and overwhelm them to run would expose their weak rear armour to weapons fire. A Jade Falcon Summoner OmniMech flew through the air on its jump jets clearing the mines “hit the Summoner!†Sortek called out but it didn’t matter his lance was already reacting blasting the seventy ton front line OmniMech with everything they had. The Jade Falcon pilot weathered the storm of lasers, missiles and autocannon the best they could but there was no way any Mech could stand under that fire. The OmniMech began to fall to the ground just as it did the cockpit exploded open and the pilot’s chair shot out of the Summoner. “Fall back! Fall back!†Sortek called out as they did the Summoner’s reactor gave way with a massive flash if it had not been for the filters on his sensor screens Sortek would have likely been blinded by the blast even so he struggled to keep his Mech upright as it and the others of his lance were caught up in the massive fireball that followed the flash as the Summoner’s reactor exploded. Even as the fire and and smoke slowly subsided Jason Sortek could see the Jade Falcons had suffered under the blast as much as his lance he sighted a Jade Falcon Nova OmniMech and fire off a salvo of long range missiles at the Mech more than half of the missiles missed their mark ripping up the burnt dirt beside the OmniMech it wasn’t much but it was enough to remind the Falcons they were still there.
“JASON ON YOUR LEFT!†Janice Parry shouted a warning Jason glanced and saw the rock formation was crumbling before his very eyes. He slammed down hard on the controls to the right turning his BattleMech away from the falling rocks he felt and heard the patter of rocks slam into the side of his BattleMech. His Mech stepped several metres away from the falling rocks looking down at them even as the Jade Falcons assaulted them “that’s it…â€
“Sir?†One of the other MechWarriors asked for a second he wasn’t sure who it was.
“Target the rocks everything you’ve got cause a landslide even bigger than that one! The reactor has weakened its foundations!†He shouted behind him all three of the Mechs fired almost as one targeting the rocks Jason twisted his Zeus X’s torso firing his right arm mounted light gauss rifle tearing up the rocks even as he pulled back away from the now collapsing rock face.
“It’s working!†Janice called out as more rocks continued to fall.
“Continue to retreat and fire†Sortek ordered suddenly feeling exhausted the rockfall had completely blocked the path between the two forces the Jade Falcon Mechs with jump jets could follow them but of the remaining Mechs Sortek could only remember the Nova, Turkina and a Flamberge naturally carrying jump jets the Nova wouldn’t come alone and neither the Turkina or Flamberge appeared to have coped with the lava well. “It will take them hours to get around those rocks let’s use them to fall back to the DropShip.†He said the others turned and began to move after the rest of their convoy hoping to catch the remaining survivors of the Eleventh Guard.
There was no further contact with the Jade Falcons Sortek and his team were able to link up with the civilians and reach Alternate Zulu and the DropShip. The crew of the ship had long prepared it for take off but had remained in place waiting for any survivors as per their orders. Jason Sortek shut down his battered Zeus X in the first Mechbay along with the rest of the survivors of the unit. The other surviving vehicles and battle armour suits were being strapped down to the deck. Sortek climbed out of the cockpit of his BattleMech and onto the gantry behind immediately Sergeant Harry Garvey was waiting for him “how are we doing Sergeant-Major?â€
“The fly boys prepped the DropShip as they’ve long been ordered, sir, they also sent a black-box mission for an evac JumpShip to be at the pirate point…â€
“But†Sortek replied seeing the doubt on Garvey’s face.
“But there has been no reply from any of our JumpShips we don’t know if any of them are still active.â€
“So if we stay the Falcons find us, we fight and most likely we die.†Sortek said “and if we go into space we could be shot down by the Falcons or we could suffocate in the cold depths of space?†Garvey nodded in reply “right then send another message then tell the Captain to get us in the air, we can’t hold off a Falcon another ground assault we need to chance it in space.†He said Garvey nodded and left to pass the orders. Four hours later with everything as secure as they could the DropShip launched into the sky and headed towards the pirate point fortunately at least one of their messages had gotten through unfortunately things were not going so well for the Commonwealth. In the following weeks with the Eleventh effectively a dead command Jason and his lance are transferred to the Thirty-sixth Lyran Guards RCT with Jason serving as a Hauptmann.
As well as the destroyed Eleventh Lyran Guards the LCAF had lost the LCS Nondi Steiner in the Great X system, six conventional regiments are lost in the fighting as is a battalion of the famed Kell Hounds, several smaller mercenary commands and two clusters of Mountain Wolf warriors. Elsewhere along the border the entire Lyran line seems to collapse as Clan forces land on Zongshan, Machiba and Chapultepec and capture each with minimal losses Lyran commanders call for a general evacuation regrouping on Inarcs, Adelaide, New Capetown and Arc Royal.
The Charlestown Chiefs mercenary command barely escape the bloodbath on Great X in a chase that took the mercenaries nearly twenty kilometres from their initial battle site and cost them a third of their warriors and their machines. During the chase the Chief’s Swallow WiGE vehicles prove themselves time and again as scouts and as harasser forces keeping the unit informed of Jade Falcon activities and positions while also disrupting Jade Falcon advances. The Chiefs evacuate along with nearly nineteen hundred civilians from a disused Lyran Commonwealth military base that had doubled as an evacuation point.
Opening of Parliament
Parliament Building, Atreus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
16th February 3103
Standing on the podium newly elected Captain-General Joseph Marik looked over the gathered delegates of every Free Worlds League world. Joseph knew he had been elected for symbolic reasons with today being the official rebirth of a united House Marik and the Free Worlds League. “I am humbled†Joseph said his voice was projected by the microphone and speakers built into the podium and every chair around the room so everyone could hear him “I am Joseph Marik and today I accept the position of Captain-General.†He said gathering his thoughts “I will listen to this parliament and when my term ends I will leave this position open to all others of this parliament.†He said glancing to either side of the high rise chairs each one of them knew that Joseph could, under the rules of the Parliament, be elected again for another ten year term but also that each of them would have a chance to run for the position as well and that the Captain-General had no authority to suspend future elections. “Together we will work to make the Free Worlds League a more prosperous place and a better place to live for all our citizens.†He promised them all “new ministers will be elected by you from this body and we will chart a course for our Free Worlds League over the next ten years.†He said “however before we begin I will open the floor to the leaders of the member states of this League.â€
“The Oriente Protectorate stands by this Free Worlds League, and our new Captain-General, and its united cause to protect all of our citizens.†Duke Jonas Halas said rising from his chair on Joseph’s left the Duke bowed his head slightly towards the Captain-General before sitting.
“The Principality of Regulus will watch the new Captain-General carefully but we will support all efforts to improve the lives of all our citizens.†Prince Lester Cameron-Jones promised the council before sitting back down allowing the final leader to rise.
“The Outer League Alliance has made every effort to unite the people of our great nation under a single banner.†Prime Minister Alison Kanning said the Outer League Alliance controlled a full third of the Free Worlds League giving the Prime Minister the strongest vote of all the leaders “we believe that every voice should be heard equally†she said looking at the Captain-General.
“A cause that I fully support†Joseph Marik promised
“Then I would like to propose the first legislation of this new Parliament?†She said asking for the Captain-General’s permission Joseph Marik nodded in response. “I would like to propose that the nations of the Free Worlds League are created equal and each removes the pretentious names that each nation has gathered over the years.â€
“Like the Outer League Alliance…†Prince Lester Cameron-Jones said before realizing that the microphone on his chair was very sensitive to noise and had broadcast his words.
“Exactly Prince Cameron-Jones†Kanning said agreeing with him instead of trying to ridicule the Prince’s mistake “instead I propose that each of our nations is referred to as a District of the reborn Free Worlds League.â€
“With District Bowang being the strongest of these Districts?†Duke Jonas Halas said looking at the old woman he could not help but be impressed by what the tiny world of Bowang had done over the years but it also concerned him.
“Bowang will forever be proud of its accomplishments†Kanning said in response to his point “but Bowang would be willing to give up such power for democracy.â€
“What do you propose?†Joseph Marik asked having remained silent until now listening to their points.
“That the Outer League Alliance is dissolved permanently and that Bowang, Gibraltar and Lesnovo are each recognized as a standing state of the Free Worlds League with the same voting power as the other states of this league.â€
“Your worlds already have a voice in this parliament†Prince Lester Cameron-Jones pointed out.
“Yes†Alison Kanning admitted “and if I compel all worlds of the Outer League Alliance to block one of your proposals we can be a very loud voice one that I doubt that you can muffle so easily.†She said pointing out that she was ready to give up this power but only if the Outer League Alliance’s Districts were all recognized as equals with Marik, Regulus and Oriente.
“I call for a general vote†Joseph Marik said not allowing the discussion to wander off topic the Outer League Alliance’s power was a threat to all the leaders bringing it down a peg would make things more equal and give each of their nations a larger voice. Joseph knew that over the short term the three OLA districts would likely vote together but as time passed and each had its own problems and differences that would change how they would vote.
Across the Parliament each member of the council placed their vote in the computer screen with a simple “YES†or “NO†answer the vote did not take long to tally. Unsurprisingly there was a very clear vote. “This Parliament has spoken with a vote for eighty-five percent supporting this vote and fifteen percent disagreeing that each nation of the Free Worlds League will be a district of our nation and the worlds of Bowang, Gibraltar and Lesnovo will be recognized as voting members of this body.†Joseph Marik said addressing the Parliament he spared a glance at Prime Minister Allison Kanning and nodded his approval she had given them something easy to begin their proceedings and he would not forget that. This would be a long day but it would be a grand one and one that would be remembered for decades to come.
Training Class Graduation 3103
Gray Death Training Zone, Glengarry
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
28th February 3103
Dr Dana Carlyle graduates as a trained Battle Armoured trooper at the Gray Death Training Zone on Glengarry. With the mercenary regiment on the Clan Wolf border she leaves Glengarry with a small contingent of reinforcements. Dana chooses a new Gray Death Strike Suit as her type of battle armour a suit unique to the Gray Death Legion it mounts a torso mounted advanced Clan type SRM-3 unit as well as an arm mounted light TAG unit. Due to her medical experience and her name she is given a commission of Captain.
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Office of Bowang, Parliament
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
2nd March 3103
Captain-General Joseph Marik entered the office of Prime Minister Alison Kanning he saw the older woman raise from behind the desk “please remain I don’t need you to raise for me†he said raising his hand as he approached the desk.
“You are the Captain-General it is respectful†she said retaking her chair.
“I wanted to thank you†Joseph said indicating to the chair across from her Kanning nodded and Joseph sat “you could have very easily blocked the bills and legislations we have passed in the last few days, the former Outer League Alliance worlds would follow your lead, but you have acted fairly in the parliament.â€
“I fully support the reformed Free Worlds League it is the very reason we sundered the Outer League Alliance because we wished a free democracy within our nation. We wished that this Free Worlds League was what House Marik was always intended it to be.â€
“And you believe we can do that?â€
“I do, do you?â€
“If we work together then yes†Joseph said “I was surprised that Lester has been so progressive in these first few weeks.â€
“The reformed League benefits his nation as long as it continues to do that then he will continue to support it. The Cameron-Jones family have always been supporters of the Free Worlds League when it benifitted them. Lester like all before him will covet your position for as long as he sees it as a way to forward Regulus’ goals.†She said she was old enough to remember the reformed Free Worlds League unlike most members of the reformed Parliament.
“So he will likely oppose any notion of a reformed Fedral Army under the authority of the Parliament and of the Captain-General.â€
“I believe he would. I believe I would†Alison Kanning admitted “the Free Worlds Guards are spread across our nation as is your Marik Militias all former Fedral troops are now part of the nation states around of the Free Worlds League or part of the SLDF.†She pointed out “I am not sure if we need to resurrect old wounds our Districts already have significant military forces.â€
“They are just not as united as we may need them Clan Wolf is still a threat to all of us.â€
“Should the Wolves rear their head we will smack them in the mouth and have them scurrying back onto the worlds they have taken†she said with more steel than Joseph had expected. “But the Free Worlds League has not been reformed purely as a military alliance. Before the split of the Free Worlds League we had trade, education and a production base rivalling the whole Inner Sphere.†She said she saw Joseph smile at the images she had suggested “we should rebuild these attributes as quickly as making Clan Wolf scared of our worlds.†She said watching Joseph Marik’s reactions for a moment “there’s hope for you yet my young sire.†He looked at her a question on his face “you’ve thought about each one of my points already I can see your thoughts and dreams played in your eyes†she said “the only one you didn’t think was completely realistic was making the Wolf afraid. It’s good you are thinking like a Captain-General should about his people.â€
“I’m only thinking that way because the leaders of the Free Worlds League are keeping me on the right course.â€
“Flattery to an old woman†she said rising from her chair “if I were twenty years younger your young wife would be in trouble.†She joked heading over to a small stand with refreshments. “It will be a long road perhaps I will see some of it.â€
“A long road that the Free Worlds League will walk together†Joseph agreed “all of us.†He said Alison Kanning glanced over at the Captain-General and smiled.
“Time is a fickle thing, my young sire, make sure you make the most out of life while you can.†She said pouring her drink she offered Joseph a drink but he shook his head declining “you blink your eyes and it is all gone.â€
“It has been quite a blink you have experienced†Joseph said “the Independence of Bowang, the Trade Sphere, the Outer League Alliance and now a reformed Free Worlds League. Many would pay a great deal for half of that journey.â€
“Yes it has†she agreed “and now House Marik†she said raising her glass towards Joseph “is united once more. Once more on par with the other Succession States.â€
“We have to prove that we can stand with them†Joseph said
“We will together†Alison Kanning said finally Joseph half bowed his head in agreement with the Bowang Districts leader confident that his nation was on the right track forward.
Product demonstrations
Talitha/Irece
Draconis Combine/Free Worlds League
17th March 3103
After spending years developing new technology for use in Land Air Mechs the companies of Gilmour MilTech and LexaTech Industries introduce new production variants of the Yurei LAM and Screamer LAM using new technology adding them to other produced units. The two companies also debut the Pwwka LAM a new thirty ton design using an extra-light gyro and four Extended Range Medium Lasers.
Like previous products the new Land Air Mech designs are all offered to anyone who can pay the price the two companies ask for them. The majority of Gilmour's products continue to go to the SLDF and mercenaries aligned with them while ninety percent of LexaTech's products go to the DCMS.
Border Deployment
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
20th March 3103
“In response to the recent aggression from Clan Nova Cat Filtvelt welcomes assistance from the Federated Suns.†Marquees Helen Tremealeau, the leader of Filtvelt and its Coalition, announced in the message that would be transmitted to Filtvelt and to the other worlds of the nation. “The Federated Suns has agreed to help defend our soil from this aggression and has agreed to leave when the time comes.†She said she barely believed the words she had spoken it had taken decades for the Filtvelt to gain its independence from the Federated Suns and it was unlikely that it would happen again. Twenty-three years ago she had spoken to First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion about Filtvelt’s desire to remain independent it felt like a lifetime ago. “The people of Filtvelt are a proud one we have survived threats to our world before and we will survive this new unpleasentness.†On Filtvelt the First and Second Tikonov Cossacks RCTs and three regiment-sized mercenary regiments including the Wild Geese would help secure their world while the FSS Filtvelt, a Hound-class Corvette, would assist in the defence of their JumpShips and shuttles.
Territorial Exchange
Clan Occupation Zones
21st March 3103
With an expanding frontier with the Lyran Commonwealth the Hell’s Horses turn control over the Malibu, Derf, Winfeld, Persistance, Steelton and Toland systems over to the control of Clan Sea Fox. In exchange the Hell’s Horses gain BattleMechs, Armour and Battle Armour suits to outfit two full Clusters and the control over three WarShips, two newly built ships and a newly built Jade Lion-class Battle-cruiser. The Sea Foxes also agree to trade Harjel to the Hell’s Horses at a cheeper price than normal to keep the Clan’s military machine at supplied longer. With control over all the systems between Twycross and the periphery Clan Sea Fox is able to move supplies between their Inner Sphere worlds and the Chainelane Isles without interference.
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My thanks to marauder648 for deciding the fate of New Extford with an excellent battle-story. Hope you enjoy April 3103
AFFS Command
District City, Kathil
Capellan March, Federated Suns
16th April 3103
Colonel Richard Steiner stepped into the AFFS Command Centre on Kathil this place was familiar to him, but it was not like his regiment… like his regiment had been he thought, even as he thought of what had happened to the First Kathil Uhlans his wounds ached. Under his duty uniform his right arm and the upper right quarter of his chest and lower neck were heavily bandaged from the burns he had sustained on Verlo.
Each time he closed his eyes Richard was back on that damned planet, that night, in the early hours of the morning a firebomb had ripped through the Uhlans base camp shocking their command. Richard still had no idea how it had happened but he and roughly half of the unit had been inside the barracks when the bombs had gone off, thirty-two MechWarriors had died in the resulting fire before they’d even made it to their Mechs.
Suffering from burns Richard had made it to his Templar OmniMech the ice in his coolant vest had aggravated but also calmed the pain from his burns. The Kathil Uhlans had been under heavy attack on the ground from at least two Capellan Confederation Warrior Houses. Richard had marshaled his remaining forces ordering his warriors to retreat to their DropShips and escape the planet. For eight hours he had fought against the Capellans and watched three regiments of his support troops sacrifice themselves before evacuating with less than a combined arms regiment into three DropShips.
Even as he hung in his OmniMech Richard had found no respite their DropShips had been assaulted by the Hell’s Black Angels Aerospace Unit. The Capellan fighters had dived on the retreating DropShips intent on wiping out the Kathil Uhlans. Richard had missed the resulting battle passing out in his BattleMech as he finally blacked out from the pain caused by his wounds. He’d watched the reruns of their escape the arrival of their WarShip the FSS Ellen Davion, a Davion III-class Destroyer, which had made an intersystem jump most likely breaking its KF Drive to do it. The Ellen Davion had dived into the battle slashing at the Hell’s Black Angels DropShips. Undeterred the Capellan Aerospace forces had turned on the single destroyer punching through its defences causing heavy damage in several obviously practiced runs then finally almost in one final attack the Capellans had struck the Ellen Davion with a nuclear-tipped anti-ship missile consuming the half a million ton vessel in a blinding flash. The attack had blinded the Uhlans but it had also affected the Hell’s Black Angels sensors allowing the DropShips to escape.
Now on Kathil the remains of the Uhlans would begin the long process of rebuilding. Richard Steiner while still the Regiment commander would be sidelined for at least six months due to his burn injuries instead of commanding his unit he would be working from the Command Centre on Kathil. That wasn’t to say he wouldn’t be busy the attack on Verlo had been the Capellan’s most successful but it hadn’t been the only one they’d attacked Victoria, Menke, Mitchell, Jonzac and Sidar while the Taurian Concordat had joined them assault MacLeod’s Land and Laconis along their shared border. From what Richard had understood the AFFS was holding the Capellans on Victoria and Sirdar. While Mitchell, Menke, Jonzac and Verlo were confirmed to have fallen both worlds targeted by the Taurians had been abandoned by the AFFS with their troops moved to other areas.
Richard approached the main tactical table which showed a map of the Federated Suns and most importantly the Capellan March. Standing around the table was Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek, possibly the oldest warrior in AFFS service, despite his age the years did not show on him today the Field Marshal of the Capellan March was in his element directing the Capellan March in a war. “Reporting as ordered Field Marshal†Richard said the old man looked over at him and smiled he was Kym Hasek’s uncle and they knew each other well.
“Welcome back to Kathil Colonelâ€
“Thank you†Richard said “what’s our status sir?â€
“OPERATION DOWNFALL is in effect.†Nathaniel said naming of of the Federated Suns Counter-attack strategies. “Units based off St Ives had successes on Brighton and Taga. While reinforcements are being routed to Sirdar and Victoria†he said Richard flinched his wife Duchess Kym Hasek was on her way to Victoria with Federated Suns Naval forces. “The New Hessen Mercenary Regiments have launched an attack on Ningpo and Algol†Nathaniel said as further worlds lit up “while Jaylen Davion has forced her way onto Grand Base with the First St Ives Lancers†the Field Marshal said with a predatory grin. “The Capellans were not expecting the whole March to rise against them.†He said triumphantly as a support officer entered handing Richard an information pad he quickly looked over it.
“Or perhaps they did.†He said connecting the pad to the main computer screen the map updated “secondary attacks from the Capellans. Sirdar has fallen the Eighth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT are no more while Foundation Industries WarShip Vidar has been destroyed.†He said naming the independent Riga-class WarShip registered as a mercenary unit by the company. “Secondary Capellan and Taurian strikes have struck Broden, Columbine, Vard, Pojo, Muridox and Larsha.â€
“So the battle is joined†Nathaniel Hasek said his predatory smile never dropping once, he didn't know the Taurian motivation but they'd pay the price too, “shall we see how well the Capellans dance Colonel?â€
“As long as we start with the easy steps, sir†Richard joked thinking of his arm and back.
“Every step with a Capellan is an easy one you just aim for the bastard’s toes†Nathaniel said laughing looking up at the map their long peace with the Capellans was over his final campaign had begun.
Battle for New Extford
New Extford
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
20th April 3103
The SLS Firedrake’s engines rumbled slightly as she burned towards New Extford, a world that had been under Jade Falcon occupation for too long. Her CiC was quiet, crew quietly muttering orders into their mics as the Patriot class heavy cruiser went to battle.
“Sir Captain Moore on the Marshal Ney reports that the screen is in position.â€
“Thank you, CAG?â€
“All our birds are in the black Sir, the assault forces have their own organic cover and the Otaka’s going to stay with them in case the Clan dropper’s break off and make a run for them.â€
“Excellent. Comms. Give Captain Tanaka my regards, tell her that she may engage as needed and she does not have to conform to the maneuvers of the flagship.â€
That had been a serious risk, the Otaka was a capable warship but against a battle-cruiser she was out of her league, still the Clan group appeared to be sticking in close formation, their four DropShips leading the way whilst their fighters had yet to launch.
“What do we have on the Jade Lion?â€
“Not much Sir, the Foxes are not talking about them but she’s reading basically as a modified Black Lion.
Captain Kurt Thobal nodded, looking at the sensor display and the long range cameras that were locked onto the distant Falcon Warships, back lit by the blue and green of the world they were defending.
He had the superior force, even if the enemy capital ship out massed both of his vessels, they had more fighters, more and he was sure better assault DropShips. But his fighters were spread between his group and the assault force carrying SLDF's Second Division, Third Brigade, The Crater Cobras and the Second Dismal Disinherited Regiment to the planet.
The fact that there were Mercs present had gotten the Falcons backs right up, a request for a bid had been met with static as the Clan force broke orbit and moved out. But they had not gone hell for leather for the vulnerable JumpShips and their precious cargo, but for the obvious challenge of the WarShips escorting them.
“Sir! Enemy craft are launching fighters!â€
“Get me an ID on the type.â€
“Reading…10 Scytha and 10 Hydaspes from the Jade Lion and..Carrier’s launching…reading them as Avar’s Sir!â€
There were some mutters on the bridge, Clan Sea Fox had been producing the Hydaspes en mass and had found a ready market with the other Clans who were snapping them up as soon as they were produced.
“CAG?â€
“We can handle that, we’ll have Gold Group engage the Scytha’s and just pick the rest off.â€
“Signal the escort group, they are weapons free to engage targets of opportunity, but they will concentrate fire when I say.â€
“Weapons, spin up the missiles, conventional warheads only, release of Special Weapons is not authorized.â€
“Aye Sir! Spinning up the birds now!â€
Whilst it took a few words and a series of computer commands the results were far more impressive.
Hatches along the cruisers bow and forward flanks popped open as multi-tonne missiles were fed into the launch tubes from their rotary ammunition holders. Each missile came to life in a heartbeat, its computer talking with the cruisers, feeding it targeting data, range, speed, predicted course.
Two hoses connected, the hydrogen slush fuel pumps pouring thousands of gallons of the freezing cold liquid into the missiles tanks in the space of a few seconds.
“Data link is good, all missiles fulled and ready to fire.â€
“Excellent, link targeting data with the escorts.â€
“Data coming through now.â€
“Very good. Open fire!â€
A simple press of a button was all it took. Each launch tube was lined with electro-magnets that would give the multi-tonne weapon a push out of the tube, thrusters flashed on the Killer Whale missiles sides to turn them towards the target as they drifted a dozen feet from their mothership before their rockets ignited, pushing them to full speed in a few seconds, their motors leaving behind a faint grey trail of ‘smoke’ from their spent fuel.
“Missiles away! Reloading now, all birds running hot, no malfunctions! Four minutes until DropShip screen!â€
The escorting Overlord A3’s Churchill and Alexander added to the barrage as did the Legacy of Fire; an impressive looking Nekohono’o.
Thousands of kilometers ahead the missiles raced on, their data feed overriding their LADAR and Radar, focusing on the mass of the Jade Falcon their path taking them over the dropship screen before the Clan Warship.
As the range dropped the escorts immediately opened fire with a blizzard of anti-missile fire, whilst the swift and agile Avar’s dove on the missiles.
“Nine missiles destroyed sir; one is reading a…make that ten, destroyed, and they are through the screen.â€
Now it was up to the Jade Lion’s defenses and they didn’t disappoint. Of the 21 missiles launched, only three survived to impact with the Clan Warship’s hull, Buckling but not breaching the hull in brief flashes of fire.
“Ready to fire again Sir!â€
“Fire, target the escort group, we won’t get through those defenses with all them in the way.â€
“Sir! Missiles launched from the Jade Lion no radiological alarm.â€
The Captain nodded, even the Clanner’s didn’t want to let that gene out of the bottle.
“Fire the screen launcher, and weapons free on point defenses!â€
“Aye Sir! Sir! Enemy missiles are actively pinging the Alexander!â€
Captain Thobal bit back a curse, the Overlord A3’s lacked an AMS of their own and despite their missile heavy armament and they were also vulnerable to missiles themselves.
“Signal the Alexander and have her move closer so she is shielded by our AMS and I want a screen deployed now!â€
The Screen launcher system ‘fired’ a heavy canister into space, it split open like a blossoming flower, filling the space calculated that the hostile missiles would go through with decoys, electronic jammers, chaff and other still classified devices, all working to jam, confuse and entice the inbound missiles. Six of the Clan’s missiles fell for the decoys and electronic sirens, their on-board systems registering a massive target that filled their radar ‘eyes’ and made their computer brains register they had found their target. Bright flashes of detonations bloomed in the darkness of space but two missiles kept going, both slightly below the main flight and slightly astern, their radar seekers firmly locked on the return they were getting from the Alexander, their heat seeker heads reading the thermal bloom of its thrusters.
One missile never made it, cut in half by a long blurt of AMS fire at extreme range but the final missile kept going, completing its one service for Clan Jade Falcon as the pointed head of the missile rammed into the Overlord A3 at Mach 10.
Even as it was crushed into oblivion the fuse activated and the missile detonated, the huge shaped charge detonating, venting its fury against the Overlord’s hull as it and the remaining fuel detonated in a blinding flash.
“Damage report from the Alexander, one of their AR-10 tubes is jammed shut, the hull is buckled and ‘we have a new porthole in the upper starboard side’, no fires reported and she is holding position.â€
“Very good, keep firing!â€
As the range dropped the weapons fire picked up. The Carrier class DropShip Argus was ripped in half by a quartet of missile strikes that set off her fuel tank whilst the Claymore Tegetthoff, was dropping back, her hull breached and heavily damaged by a missile strike. The Aerospace fighters on both sides rolled in to engage as the surviving trio of Clan assault DropShips, a pair of Eisigrim’s and a Noruff went to full thrust and began engaging the SLDF’s ships.
“Sir…†The comm’s officer stopped his report as the ship rocked slightly as a PPC burst melted hull armour.
“The Otaka reports that the DropShips are entering the atmosphere and she is en-route to our location.â€
“Understood, guns keep targeting the Jade Lion and keep firing!â€
The blackness of space was light up by brief puffs of exploding missiles and long jagged lines of laser light. Outnumbered the Jade Falcon assault DropShips clung together in a group, their interlinked AMS cutting down most of the missiles directed their way, but even then they were taking damage. But giving it too. The trio rolled, burning retro’s hard, catching the Arondight Marshal Ney flat footed and a volley of missiles at no more than a few dozen miles, point blank in space terms saw the big assault DropShip burst like an over inflated balloon. She was joined in death moments later when the Noruff Daughter of the Tempest was hit hard by a pair of Kraken-T missiles, the ship rolling bow over stern in an unrecoverable dive that saw the G-force spiraling wildly before the ship ripped itself apart, spilling metal and its crew across the battlefield.
With her escorts being overwhelmed the Jade Lion altered her course, rolling to present her guns not to the Firedrake but the onrushing assault DropShips and Otaka.
The Combine built ship’s weapons were spitting as soon as they charged or reloaded, massed batteries of PPCs, gouging into the Isegrim Honour and setting her aflame as her ATM ammo in the wing detonated. A NAC round slammed hard into the Jade Lion’s side, smashing a turret into ruin before the Clan warship completed her roll and opened fire.
The Izuma II was a capable warship, fast, well-armed and heavily protected for a ship its size, but she was still only a corvette.
At short range the guns of the Jade Lion hammered into the Otaka the impacts physically knocking the smaller ship aside before something was hit. One of the Otaka’s autocannon’s took a hit a moment before it fired. The gun, the shell and propellant all detonated in a thundering flash of heat and supersonic fragments. Bulkheads activated but the force of the blast was too great, the explosion ripping into the read to use shells which detonated moments later. The explosion gutted the forward port side of the corvette and she rolled debris and ribbons of fire streaming from her hull like blood from a wound as her damage control parties worked to save the ship.
But despite this success the Jade Lion was hurting, weapons had been disabled, there was fire on several decks and her support was almost gone.
“Sir! She’s running!â€
“Thank god…what is our status?â€
“We’ve compartments open to space, the fire on the port side is out, but the secondary reactor’s murmuring. Department heads reporting casualties twenty-four confirmed dead, at least sixteen crew reported missing and numerous injuries.†They’d been hurt but they were still going.
“Land forces?â€
“They are away and deploying, reporting heavy contact.â€
“Understood… give that Clan bastard a few more missile volley’s to keep her honest and then stand down, recover our fighters and look for any life pods.â€
The fighting on New Extford was bloody almost from the start. The two Clusters almost ignored the SLDF regiment and instead threw themselves in a fury at the Second Dismal Disinherited Regiment, leaving only a thin screen to harass the Crater Cobra’s as they made their advance.
At first it seemed that the Clan’s would overrun the landing zone but frantic calls for air support yielded success and the tattered remnants of Gold Flight, one made purely of Eisensturm assault fighters dove through the atmosphere, strafing and bombing the Clan forces even as the Crater Cobra’s slammed into their exposed flank.
Pushed back the Clusters withdrew in an orderly fashion behind a suicidal rear-guard but under constant air attack and with the SLDF forces holding onto their tail the Clanner’s didn’t have time to regroup or re-arm. With both clusters reduced to below 50% their surviving officer requested Hegira. The mauled remnants of the Dismal Disinherited were at first unwilling to grant this but the SLDF commander on the ground, seeing that the Falcons had backed into very defensible terrain realized that crushing the Clan forces would take time and cost too much blood and accepted.
Colonel Nakambe watched the Clan forces pull back, they were all damaged, all showing signs of the hard but honourable battle they had fought. Their blind fury against the Mercs had saved his command from too many casualties but still, there were many Mech’s that required hours of work whilst the Dismal were just that, in a dismal state, battered and exhausted with three dropships crippled on the ground, one fatally when a crazed Turkina had stormed up a disembarking ramp and opened fire inside. The detonating supplies and ammo had pulped the Mech but the Overlord he’d boarded would never fly again.
“Send word to the fleet, they can contact command and say that New Extford once again belongs to the Lyrans.†While victory had come at a cost at New Extford Kandersteg and Atocongo had fallen to combined SLDF/LCAF forces with far less casualties and damage. In both the Timkovichi and Santana systems the Inner Sphere liberation forces had been stopped dead by the Jade Falcons.
Clan Jade Falcon’s leadership realize that they have over extended themselves and are unable to fight off the Inner Sphere forces. The Jade Falcon Khans call their garrison forces from their periphery holdings effectively abandoning them to the wilds of the periphery. They also allow the Sea Foxes to trial for five additional worlds adjacent to those that the Sea Foxes had seized from the Hell’s Horses freeing up additional Jade Falcon garrison forces for use elsewhere in their Occupation Zone. With recent territory increases the Sea Foxes find that their Clan Touman is over extended and are unable to heavily garrison their planets the trader Clan finds that they do not need to secure their worlds as heavily as the Jade Falcons or Wolves instead allowing their newly acquired planets a little autonomy.
Holding Area, Razor Teeth (Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser)
Arcadia, Wolf Empire
24th April 3103
Along with nearly her whole company Captain Dana Carlyle sat cross legged on the floor on the gravity deck on board the Razor Teeth. Her battle armour team had been ambushed by a group of Clan Wolf Elementals that had raided Rahne striking at the Gray Death Legion. She’d been knocked out in the opening Wolf short range missile salvo and missed nearly the entire battle only coming to as the survivors of her company were forced into the Wolf DropShip and taken off planet. They’d all been informed they were now bondsmen of Clan Wolf. As she sat on the deck Dana focused on the floor she should have remained a doctor she had no right being here she thought as a pair of Wolf boots stepped in front of her. Dana looked up at the massive mountain of flesh and muscle in front of her “I am Star Captain Franklin Shaw you are my bondsmen†he said in a deep voice Dana did not move “come with me†he said still she didn’t move in one rapid movement Shaw yanked her up onto her feet. Around her several Legionaries raised with her Shaw moved faster than she had ever seen anyone move before rapidly striking three of her warriors with rapid jabs and kicks knocking them down.
“NO!†Dana shouted “I’ll come don’t hurt them any further†she demanded immediately Shaw rounded on her with a back handed slap that knocked a tooth from her mouth.
“First rule of being a Wolf speak properly†he demanded as she looked back at him defiantly. He then took a step closer “second rule never make another demand on me.†He ordered “now follow me.†He said walking out of the room Dana glanced at the other warriors of the her company one last time before being led away and into another room. This room was different from the other instead of an open space instead there were tables and a large viewscreen on the wall showing another WarShip “you will be transferred on board the Provider.†He said
“What will I do there?â€
“The Provider is our science vessel you will work with our scientists there.†He said his voice softer now no longer speaking as the Wolf warrior.
“I am a warrior†she protested
“But you were trained as a scientist on Terra†Shaw replied “the Wolves can use scientists more than another battle armour operator†he said. “The Provider will be your home for a time we were forced to move our scientists on board the WarShip due to problems with some locals but you will be safe there.†He promised her Dana looked at the WarShip on the screen thinking that perhaps finally she would do what she had wanted to do, what she’d been trained to do even if it was for the Wolves perhaps this was her path.
-
Thirtieth Star League Games, Aniversary Event
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
1st May 3103
The Thirtieth Star League Games begins with Special Anniversary Event on Solaris VII to celebrate thirty years of the Star League Games and forty-five years of the Second Star League before the beginning of the main event. Each nation that has contributed to the Star League Games sends a company or trinary to the event which is paraded in front of the viewing crowds. Following this parade many of the participants in the parade have to be kept apart by the SLDF garrison although no shots are fired between the opposing sides tension remains high. Even as the Star League Games take place the SLDF’s First ComGuard Regimental Brigade remains on guard ensuring no fighting breaks out.
The crowd inside the Star League Stadium know little of what’s going on outside instead they enjoy the martial display put on by the dueling MechWarriors. Fighting inside MechWarrior Vanessa Lexington, of the Lexington Lance Mercenary Command, wins the event piloting her father’s customized Crusader BattleMech. Hours later Lexington’s Lance begins a contract off Solaris VII with the Draconis Combine.
Naval Battle
Victoria, Zilang PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
12th May 3103
Breathing deeply into her air mask Duchess Kym Hasek looked out at the incoming Capellan aerospace fighters; assault DropShips and the WarShip CCSS Zhoushan, a Wudang Jian-class Frigate. Glancing out each side of her cockpit window Kym saw the rest of her squadron of Dagger OmniFighters forming up “all right boys and girls we’re going in you all know the drill we hit the fighters and DropShips and clear the way for the Charles Davion to cause some damage.â€
“It’s a shame the Black Prince is at the Nadir point she can cause some real damage!†Jimmy Burke called out
“The Charles Davion will cause plenty damage all by herself if we open the door for them†Kym said as the Capellans charged forward so did the AFFS forces. “Dive and attack Razors on me!†She called out using her squadron’s unofficial nickname the fighters turned on a Capellans. The Razors’ Dagger OmniFighters were both faster and more maneuverable than the attackers but the attackers were more numerous and had heavier armour. Moving in behind a pair of ancient Transit fighters Kym unleashed her fighter’s rotary autocannon peppering the rear of the Capellan craft tearing into the armour between the twin engine nacelles of the fighter focused on her target Kym followed up on her attack by firing her lasers into the Transit exploiting the damage made by her autocannon tearing open the rear of the fighter. As she banked to the left she saw two other Transits burst into flames but the Capellans did not stop instead they continued forward straight at an AFFS Avenger DropShip. The remaining three fighters in the squadron opened fire with their guns hitting the Avenger with three massive long tom cannons.
Even as she turned her Dagger for another pass against the Transits she saw the front of the DropShip peel open as the rounds and the follow up laser fire tore open the hull. The DropShip dived out of the formation still under control but likely out of this fight its attackers, the Transit fighters, continued forward towards the Charles Davion behind them a second squadron of Transits followed through the hole created by the departed Avenger. “They’re going for the destroyer burn these Transits!†Kym ordered opening fire with her rotary autocannon on fully automatic fire tearing open another Transit fighter as it passed by her if the Capellan craft had targeted her instead of focusing on the Davion III behind her it probably could have probably destroyed her OmniFighter. “This is a suicide run…†she thought glancing at her sensors she saw that the Capellan WarShip had remained back trading long range shots with the Charles Davion as the AFFS destroyer advanced. Ahead the first Transits had reached their target pummeling the Charles Davion with point blank long tom fire. The damage did not penetrate the hull of the destroyer but it left nasty scars along her port side the destroyers own weapons cut another fighter out of space even as they turned away. The second squadron of Transits caught between Kym’s fighters and the Charles Davion opened fire on the destroyer as soon as they were able Kym saw a flash of light as the four remaining fighters launched a volley of anti-ship missiles carried along their bellies. Kym hated bombing practice the weight of the weapons slowed her fighter’s response time but these Transits would have barely noticed, they were like flying bricks on the best of days, “Charles Davion, Charles Davion, you have a volley of missiles inbound!†She shouted an unnecessary warning the five hundred-and-twenty thousand ton vessel had more tonnage dedicated to its sensors than the weight of her fighter.
The Capellans it appeared had prepared for the Charles Davion’s sensors, and its defences, moments after the launch of the missiles Kym’s sensors were flooded with missile contacts “what the hell?†She said seeing no further missiles launched from the Transits which were falling to her squadron’s guns. Ahead of them the Charles Davion’s sensors had detected the same hoard of missiles approaching as Kym’s Dagger had and its anti-missile systems had activated lighting up the Davion III against space the close-in protective cannons spat hundreds of bullets into space attempting to knock the fake missile contacts off target. Two of the real missiles were struck by the flak fire in moments the amount of missiles was dramatically cut down but it was too late the remaining missiles struck the hull of the WarShip blowing holes in the armour. A Davion III was designed to take the sort of punishment the Capellans were subjecting it to but not what came in the last missile as it struck the destroyer the missiles nuclear warhead exploded for a moment Kym’s eyes and sensors were blinded by the blast from the missile but as her vision returned Kym could see the result the FSS Charles Davion which had stood proudly a moment before was no more than a burning hulk its hull decompressing as fire tore through what remained. Kym thought she saw an escape pod jettison from the hull but she couldn’t be sure and there was nothing she could do for those sailors. “Break it off!†She ordered her remaining fighters on her sensors she could see more of the Capellans were approaching their position “all remaining fighters and DropShips this is Captain Kym Hasek I’m taking command of all remaining forces†without the Charles Davion to coordinate them they’d be in trouble against the Capellan WarShip at least until the Black Prince could transit from the jump point. “The Capellans have won this round, turn for Victoria; we’ll fight them from the ground!†She she said pulling her fighter away from the incoming Capellan WarShip she hoped that her fighters could reach the planet before the massive frigate and she hoped that the FSS Black Prince didn’t take too long getting back to the planet.
As the Capellans closed on Victoria around the system more Capellan forces moved in capturing the systems of Quirnberton and Fraser as the noose closed around the former Capellan Commonality Capital. Still supporting the Capellans the Taurian Concordat landed forces on the planet of Zanzibar causing more trouble for the AFFS.
Public Announcement, Lyran Commonwealth Birthplace
Arcturus, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
18th May 3103
The leader of the Lyran Commonwealth of Archon Jessica Steiner to a podium in front of the Lyran Commonwealth’s birthplace on the Chadrik continent of Arcturus, capital of the Lyran Commonwealth. “Ladies and gentlemen today I speak to you as a proud member of this Commonwealth our military forces in conjunction with the Korbin’s Kommandos mercenary command the final known cell of the Brotherhood of Cincinnatus based on Carlisle. Their leader Mason Whyle was captured alive as was Lindon Ashley, the leader of Democracy Now, these threats to our Commonwealth have been stopped by the dedicated work of our people and our allies.†She said glancing down “these criminals will be tried in our courts of law and if found guilty will be sentenced by the people who have been harmed by they actions.†She said the gathered crowd applauded politely. “Today I am also announcing that I have decided that I will be stepping down as an active member of the Lyran Commonwealth Navy, a part of me will also remain with those stars, but my heart has other priorities†she said as the camera panned back it showed the Archon’s growing baby bump “thank you ladies and gentlemen.†She said and the camera was allowed to a fade to black.
Bounty Hunt
Trace, Periphery
29th May 3103
Moving his Marauder II over the plain the Bounty Hunter looked at his Heads Up Display (HUD) his target was in sight. Three days ago the Free Worlds’s League hired Bounty Hunter supported by the Miller’s Mailed Fist and The Thunder Road Mercenary Battalions had landed on the independent periphery world named Thrace. The two mercenary units had moved quickly against the pirate forces overwhelming them leaving their commander, who had run at the first sign of major attack, for the Bounty Hunter. Moving forward flanked by a modified Mauler and an Ebon Jaguar the Bounty Hunter raised his Mech’s heavy arms striking out at the pirate known as Hal the Hammer. Hal piloted a Warhammer BattleMech the classic heavy design of any self respecting MechWarrior with heavy particle cannons, lasers, short range missiles and machine guns.
With his own heavier particle cannons the Bounty Hunter showed the would be pirate king what it meant to have a real BattleMech his Marauder II had long ago been rebuilt with Clan technology and it was more than a match for the old Warhammer. He concentrated on the Mech’s legs burning away armour mounted there the Bounty Hunter immediately followed up with a gauss rifle shot which smashed the remaining armour there and crushed the knee joint on the left leg. With a massive amount of armour loss the Warhammer stumbled forward down onto a single knee. Inside his enclosed helmet the Bounty Hunter smiled impressed that the pilot had kept the Mech off its back. Raising again to its feet the Warhammer returned fire with both PPCs one went high the other slammed into the Marauder II’s right leg glancing at the damage statistic Christopher almost laughed barely half a ton armour little else. “You shouldn’t fight battles you can’t win†he said firing both particle cannons again targeting the same left leg this time both particle cannons burned through the limb severing it above the knee as the seventy ton Mech fell forward it slammed a particle cannon into the ground to stop it falling on its face. Amazingly the pilot was still able to raise his other arm and fire another shot at the Bounty Hunter’s Marauder II the man-made lightning bolt flew over his cockpit. “Stand down†he called out looking down at the prone BattleMech.
“Screw you†the pirate spat back firing another particle shot catching the Bounty Hunter’s Mech on the upper torso.
“Not today†Christopher said targeting the Warhammer’s remaining arm with both particle cannons and his gauss rifle. All three weapons bore through the Warhammer’s armour boring into the Mech’s shoulder and torso smashing the joint and the arm. Under the damage the limb collapsed and without it to prop up the Warhammer the seventy ton Mech fell onto its face unable to move. “You’re going to face who you have harmed†he said.
Hours later the infantry forces attached to The Thunder Road dug Hal the Hammer out of his BattleMech the pilot had committed suicide in his cockpit instead of facing those who he had harmed. Regardless the Christopher Grant’s mission was complete, he’d be paid, his first payment as the Bounty Hunter.
-
Strategy Meeting, AFFS Command
Kathil, Kathil PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th June 3103
Around the room AFFS commanders sat and argued their strategies they were using against the Capellan Confederation. “The Confederation has showed at Verlo and Victoria that they will use nuclear weapons against our forces we should do the same and hit the Capellans hard.†Marshal Arthur Weaver said looking around seeing at least some support.
“The First Prince will not support the use of nuclear weapons against planetary targets.†Prince Burton Davion said he was here purely as an observer for his father but his words carried a lot of weight. “But if they continue to use nukes against our WarShips, or strike against ground targets, authorization to use them against enemy WarShips will likely be cleared.â€
“I agree with the Prince using nukes should be our last resort†Nathaniel Hasek said looking around the faces of his commanders he saw at least three who looked like they disagreed. “If we can keep them at range and keep our WarShips defended then we should be able to minimize our losses.†The Field Marshal said looking around the table “our forces on Victoria are holding the Capellans.â€
“It’s a shame the SLDF won’t let us pass through the Prefecture we’d be in striking distance of Sian and Glasgow that would make Liao think twice.†One of them said
“But the SLDF won’t let us pass†another repeated as if to reinforce the point. The SLDF had surprisingly refused to allow the Federated Suns, a Star League member state, to use the Kittery Prefecture as a base to strike against the Capellans. Leader of the Prefecture Protector-General Devlin Stone had stated that the Federated Suns conflict with the Capellan Confederation was not a Star League conflict and that the SLDF was reforged to minimize the amount of conflict in the Inner Sphere and that his SLDF units would continue to support peace. He had said that should one side, regardless of their Star League status “cross the line†then the Kittery Prefecture would act where that line was Stone refused to elaborate.
“How about we strike at Liao?†Richard Steiner said everyone glanced at the Colonel in surprise, none had expected him to speak up, he was here purely as Nathaniel Hasek’s aide. “We continue to draw their attention to Victoria and its defence but at the same time we strike hard at Liao take it just as we did during the Fourth Succession War force House Liao to stand up and look at us.†He looked around seeing others agreed with him the idea of returning to the glory of the Fourth Succession War resonating with many of them. “We can hurt the Capellan war effort more by taking Liao than any other planet within our reach. We can force the ending of this conflict on our terms.â€
“I don’t disagree with you†Nathaniel Hasek admitted glancing at the younger man approvingly “but I’m not sure we have the forces for such a strike.â€
“Call on the reserves from the Crucis March and Draconis March†Richard Steiner suggested seeing the surprise on the other face “only until we secure Liao then they go back to their garrisons.â€
“And what if the Capellans nuke those troops†Marshal Weaver said “we will leave the Combine and Nova Cat borders at reduced strength. Not only that there there is no guarantee your actions will break the Capellan’s resolve or stop the raids we could be creating a longer conflict.â€
“I know this Marshal†Steiner said “however we are spending troops at Victoria and making little progress in driving back the Capellans in fact in many ways we are losing territory. Victoria’s shipyards are gone, its factories we have already stripped as much as we can, if our actions on Liao cause us to lose the world the Capellans will gain an empty shell. If we strike at Liao we could take significant steps forward.â€
“He is right we have stripped much of what Victoria had to offer us. The naval battles to date have rendered the shipyards useless permanently, some of our analysts suggest that elements will enter the atmosphere over the next couple of years if we don’t do something about them, Victoria could be a rock that will drown us.â€
“Getting enough support to Victoria to convince the Capellans to keep their eyes there could be a problem†Admiral Amanda Watney said she worked for the Federated Suns Logistics Division and Capellan naval forces were making things harder in the system.
“We still hold the jump points forcing the Capellans to use pirate entry points†one said “deploying the Dresari and Sortek to the pirate points would cut the Capellans ability to resupply.†He said naming the two Davion III Destroyers that were supporting the Mercury-class Black Prince.
“Until the Capellans resorted to the use of nuclear weapons then we’d lose two more WarShips.†Fleet Admiral Blaine Webster said finally speaking “sir the navy understands that our vessels could die in the black of space. The Mercury-class could indeed survive a nuclear strike…â€
“Just because it could doesn’t mean that it should†Steiner finished with “the WarShips and our ground forces in the Victoria are already a distraction all they have to do is remain in place. The Capellan preoccupation with them will work in our favour.†He said Steiner immediately saw a wave of distaste around the room the FSS Black Prince was the pride of the Federated Suns navy for her to be used as a distraction instead of at the forefront of an operation did not sit well with many. At the same time however he also saw Fleet Admiral Webster looking relieved that the Black Prince would not need to be tested by such a trial of endurance. “However there is something that the Black Prince could do for us…†He suggested knowing that if he didn’t do something the men and women around the table would vote down his plan in a heartbeat, not because there was anything wrong with it, only to save face. Off to his side Nathaniel Hasek nodded quickly hiding his smile of pride “the next resupply mission to Victoria. The Black Prince should escort the supplies and replacement troops to the planet, we can pair her with four Blockade Runners, which should minimize the risk of nuclear weapons, and once she arrives at the planet she can target the Capellan Frigate in the system drive them off and gain our people on the ground some peace.†He said adding things to his plan on the fly wasn’t a necessary plan but it needed to be done to gain support “they don’t need to destroy the frigate just make a very good show. Convince the Capellans that we want to keep Victoria and keep up the ruse just long enough to make Liao a target.†He knew that the other members of the command meeting would want to kill the Capellan vessel but to Richard Steiner it was all to support his plan and to support the conquest of Liao.
Approaching Pirate Base
Holden, Hall
Star League Protectorate
12th June 3103
Weeks of operations had gone to hell in a matter of hours now Lt Morgan Christifori and his lance were running across the surface of Hall smashing through the trees several kilometres south of Holden a long abandoned hamlet which the SLDF believed to be the centre of operations for a pirate band. Chistifori’s company commander Captain Rudolph Blight had gone in with his two lances instead of waiting for the battle lance and their infantry and quickly found himself outgunned by the surprise appearance of an entire company of Mechs supported by several armoured vehicles and missile equipped infantry.
“Move your asses people!†He called to his lance “Bigfoot this is Little Cheese we’re roughly two minutes from your position sitrep!†Christifori called out he hated Blight’s nickname for him, all because of his father, but after hearing some of the other nicknames made up by his CO it could have been worse.
“We’re holding our own we’ve got a tech and weight advantage on them. The vehicles are the biggest problem all hovers; they are trying to get in behind us on our eastern flank.†His commander said
“Kim you and I will jump in. James, Bo you come in strong backing our play.†Christifori ordered thumping down on the foot pedals of his BattleMech. One of the reasons Captain Blight had nicknamed him ‘Little Cheese’ was because of the Penetrator which Morgan now called his own. His father had long ago had the Mech modified with Clan technology giving him an advantage over regular Mechs of the same weight and giving it far better chance against heavier machines. Thumping down on the foot pedals launching the seventy-five ton BattleMech into the air on a trail of flame moments later alongside him Kim’s Thanatos rose on its own jump jets. Below them James and Bo in their ground bound Rakshasa and Marauder BattleMechs would be keeping pace with them through the woods. From his height advantage James saw the battle and saw the hovercraft that were circling behind Blight’s forces were four Saracen hovercraft. Morgan took a risky shot with his left arm extended-range large laser missing his target wildly before his Penetrator started falling towards the ground just before impact he cut in the jump jets once more to cushion the landing. “Saracens unsure on their load-out†he called out preparing for a second jump that would take him into combat.
“LRMs and SRMs or MRMs and SRMs†Bo called out the standard configurations of the hovercraft “either way they don’t have the armour for a stand up fight they are probably going to take a pot shot at the Captain then run for it.â€
“We’re not letting them†Christifori said “stick to the plan, Kim on me†he ordered a moment later he regretted what he’d said since both Bo and James were convinced there was something going on between the two. There was nothing going on but because the two other MechWarriors had never advanced beyond puberty it was a source of constant remarks from them.
“Hey Cheese, no consorting with the hired help, you’ve got a legacy to live up to…†Bo called as the two Mech’s jumped into the air. This time Morgan didn’t bother trying any special aerial shots instead he launched the Mech into the battle area landing nearly three hundred metres from the circling hover craft.
“Kim, three and four, I have one and two†he ordered leveling his Mechs two arms. While the Penetrator was a humanoid styled Mech instead of arms that ended in human like hands the Penetrator’s arms were like two long laser barrels. Instantly Morgan thumped down on the trigger sending a single laser shot at both the first two Saracens. Firing so close to a jump resulted in a wave of excess heat flooding into the Penetrator’s cockpit only Morgan’s coolant vest wrapped around his body kept him conscious and functioning in the furnace. Heat was the one major flaw most BattleMechs suffered with even as Morgan fought against it in his Penetrator he saw that one of the lasers had missed completely burning through the air until it dissipated into nothing while the other burrowed itself deeply in the front of the lead hovercraft. The lightly armoured hovercraft couldn’t survive such a hit and it spun out of control and into a rock crashing heavily before exploding into a ball of flame.
Kim’s fire had been more concentrated she’d fired a single laser into the first target then followed up by a medium range missile volley on the same vehicle ensuring its destruction. She’d then launched into the air using her Mech’s jump jets landing closer to her second target to deliver a laser volley from her Mech’s torso weapons array. Christifori could imagine the heat running through her Mech at the moment he hoped her staggered fire approach would mean the heat would bleed off more easily. Regardless both of her targets were down while one of his was still active, but not for long, moments later as Morgan sighted to make a second shot at his other target a long range missile volley from his lance’s Rakshasa ended the Saracen’s life with a series of hits that knocked out the hovercraft’s engine. Christifori glanced at James’ Mech for a couple of seconds considering saying something his pause was long enough for the MechWarrior to jump on. “What you turning all Clan on us Cheese?†James joked Morgan shook his head and tried not to laugh he had a rank and position over them but rarely did he hold them to rank especially when in combat.
“All of you turn and support command lance†he ordered as they turned they were greeted with ringside seats as Captain Rudolph Blight’s eighty ton Mauler BattleMech was beheaded by an enemy particle cannon. The massive humanoid giant appeared to exactly still for a moment, as if the Mech was trying to make sense of what had happened to its human brain, before crashing uncontrolled to the ground.
Although inexperienced their company was disciplined enough for Blight’s second in command Lt Ben Mason to know what to do next. He didn’t waste time in calling out orders showing them all he was fully in command. Morgan Christifori didn’t argue with the man they may be equal in rank but Mason had three years on him and Christifori knew better than to question someone during a battle.
Glancing at the downed Mauler for a moment Christifori turned his guns on a Shadow Hawk BattleMech still struggling with heat he fired a single large laser blast into the Mech’s right leg. The Mech staggered back maintaining its footing despite the large burn down its thigh-to-knee. He followed up with a second large laser shot that burned the Mech’s over shoulder autocannon to slag disabling the lighter Mech’s main gun then jumped his Mech over the lighter Mech striking it with several medium pulse laser blasts. Surprisingly the Mech stayed on its feet during his assault more surprisingly the Shadow Hawk raised its arms in surrender and shutdown its targeting systems “Lt Mason we’ve got one surrendered over here.â€
“We’ll take the human Intel Christifori guard that Mech until our infantry arrive. Battle lance take your orders directly from me he ordered. Morgan Christifori hated being sidelined by Mason but he was the closest Mech to the surrendered Shadow Hawk and technically the MechWarrior was his prisoner until the infantry arrived his Penetrator could also use the time to cool down. Watching the battlefield Morgan moved his own Mech behind the surrendered Shadow Hawk ensuring the pilot would not be able to slip away unnoticed and making the pilot fully aware if he did try something Morgan’s guns would be aimed directly at his weak rear armour. The only real way for the pilot to escape now would be to trigger the Mech’s ejection system and hope the chute brough them far from the battle unfortunately for the pilot the countryside all around them was barren and not the best for survival on foot.
Out of the corner of his eye Morgan caught a glimpse of something moving quickly in out of reflex he turned the Penetrator’s turret-styled waist towards the target seeing a thirty-five ton Gurkha charging in with its massive Mech-sized sword raised with no time to raise the arm mounted large lasers Morgan triggered all six torso mounted pulse lasers two missed wildly burning the dirt around the running thirty-five ton Mech but the other four struck home burning away enough armour. Unbalance the Mech cause it to veer to the right as the pilot fought to keep control not looking to engage the Gurkha in close quarters Morgan slammed down on the foot pedals of his Mech raising it off the ground on its jump jets as he did Morgan extended the left leg connecting with the charging Gurkha. The impact was devastating for the Gurkha which was still off balance from the laser attack the physical impact with another Mech was too much for its pilot to control and the charging Mech was knocked to the ground falling on its right side. As the Mech rolled over the ground its right arm, which included the lethal sword, dug into the ground and was torn completely off the Mech’s body. Unfortunately the physical attack hadn’t been good for Morgan’s Mech either the impact had crushed one of the jump jet exhausts causing the Penetrator to come down off balance. Slamming into ground faster than it was designed to the Penetrator’s left leg ankle actuator collapsed under the impact causing the seventy-five ton Mech to stumble forward but fortunately not fall. “Crap!†The young pilot exclaimed seeing the damage the jump jet was destroyed and he wouldn’t be able to move faster than fifty kilometres per hour until the damage was repaired glancing over he saw the Gurkha Morgan saw it had suffered far more and had been unable to rise from its prone position. He guessed that the pilot had been knocked out or the gyro was damaged regardless it looked like the Gurkha was out of the fight.
Looking down at his sensor images he saw that the rest of the company had destroyed five more Mechs and forced the remaining pirate Mechs to stand down hopefully ending the fight. He double checked his sensors and saw that the surrendered Shadow Hawk still where he’d left it. “At least something went right†he whispered to himself in the last three weeks Morgan had fought these pirates four times with this particular battle being the easiest by a long way. He was getting sick of the skirmishes and just wished they could fight a proper battle and just finish it but these raiders seemed to be well supported.
Command Briefing
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
22nd June 3103
“Your people were supposed to be here to help my people Field Marshal instead Clan Nova Cat has seized two more of our worlds and cost the Filtvelt Coalition yet further lives.†Marquees Helen Trempealeau said angrily staring at Federated Suns Field Marshal Daniel Robertson commander of the First Tikonov Cossacks RCT.
“We have deployed our units on Filtvelt, Marielund and Skepptana on each world we have helped your people reinforce their positions and secure you from any attack. We were set here to help reinforce your position it is not my problem that the Nova Cats desire your worlds more than you are able to defend against.†Robertson replied “Marquees even at your current production capabilities and at the buying power of Filtvelt’s banks I do not see how you can counter Clan Nova Cats attacks. You should consider First Prince Davion’s offer of a return to full membership status within the Federated Suns your people have shown that they can stand alone but now it is time you return to the fold. With the Federated Suns full ground and naval support as well as the diplomatic support of House Davion you will be able to turn back the Nova Cats.â€
“I have thought little else about the First Prince’s offer†the Marquees replied calmer now closing her eyes thinking “contact the First Prince†she said finally accepting that the Filtvelt Coalition needed help against the superior forces of Clan Nova Cat.
Three days later as Clan Nova Cat forces landed on Fugeres and Marielund Federated Suns’ Crucis March leader Field Marshal Paul Bowman replied to Field Marshal Robertson’s communication just as Clan Nova Cat landed forces on Fugeres and Marielund. With the Federated Suns announcing Filtvelt’s return to the Federated Suns even as the Wild Geese and Vanguard Legion Mercenary Regiments fought a pitched battle alongside the First Filtvelt Militia against Clan Nova Cat. With Filtvelt, Skepptana and Marielund officially Federated Suns worlds First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion speaks to the nation.
“Sons and daughters of the Suns I am First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion. Today I speak to you to announce that the worlds of the Filtvelt Coalition have chosen to return to the Federated Suns. These worlds have stood alone for many years and they prospered, that is until Clan Nova Cat struck them, I now call on these attackers to back down or face the full wrath of the Federated Suns.†He warned knowing that this message would reach the Nova Cats as well. “We will welcome the people of Filtvelt and their armed forces back into the Federated Suns and together we will see these worlds prosper again.†Victor said glancing down for a moment before looking back up.
“While today we welcome Filtvelt back into the Federated Suns, and the Crucis March, I also want to remember the Crucis March world of Kirklin which recently suffered the wrath of Mother Nature.†He said pausing for a moment “despite our best efforts many souls have perished on that world.†He said looking directly at the camera “even as First Prince there is little I can say to make up for Kirklin’s destruction and the lives lost there only that we will remember them.†He continued “in an effort to keep Kirklin in our minds the next Hound-class WarShip produced will bear this planet’s name and the Kirklin Phalanx Regiment will be raised by the AFFS to carry this world’s name, and legacy, into the Federated Suns’ future.
Despite Victor’s warning the fighting on Marielund continued for another three weeks with the Filtvelt Citizens Militia effectively becoming part of the two mercenary commands before they were forced to withdraw from the system surrendering it to Clan Nova Cat. The remaining regiments of Filtvelt’s armed forces the Third Filtvelt Guardians and the Fourth Filtvelt Citizens Militia are accepted as a combined independent command of the AFFS.
Reinforcements
Victoria, Ziliang PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
29th June 3103
The Federated Suns Naval units had made contact with the initial Capellan units nearly an hour ago the Capellan aerospace fighters had assaulted them before fading back towards Victoria. Now their second wave of attackers were closing on them. “Admiral the four DropShips supporting the Zhoushan are the Scarab, Vickers, Lexington and Chimera.â€
“They are ours!†Admiral Armin Sviatchenkoat snapped in reply naming the four Overlord A3-class DropShips that had been on Victoria’s planetary surface when the Capellans landed. “What the hell are our own DropShips doing with those bastards?â€
“The Capellans must control the primary spaceport†Sviatchenkoat’s executive officer Scarlett Bryne said in response “communications have the Blackstone and Islington divert to alternate landing zones†she said naming the two conventional Conquistador-class DropShips following them. Between the two ships they carried all the AFFS reinforcements that would be heading to the planet while the other vessels, the four Blockade Runners, which remained in close formation to the FSS Black Prince would target the enemy aerospace units.
“Have all four Blockade Runners target the Overlords kill them†Sviatchenkoat ordered “forward guns target the Zhoushan with the forward battery then turn us hard to port and hit them with a broadside. All conventional guns against aerospace fighters have our own fighters remain close for fighter and missile defence.†Sviatchenkoat ordered now it was a waiting game his orders made. The Conquistador Blockade Runners turned heading towards the enemy Overlords CCAF and AFFS aerospace fighters struck out at each other in the distance between the opposing WarShips.
“Forward battery activated†one of the weapons officers called out “Zhoushan targeted, main weapons firing in three, two, one†he said counting down at the front of the WarShip the heavy naval gauss rifles and heavy particle cannons mounted there fired almost as one. Propelled almost at the speed of light the gauss rifles and particle cannons momentarily linked the two WarShips across the smaller Zhoushan the weapons tore open the nose of the Frigate causing massive damage. As the Black Prince turned her naval autocannon broadside was unleashed even as the frigate’s weapons responded against the massive Mercury pitting the Black Prince’s thick hull armour.
“We have inbound eight capital missiles the A3s unleashed everything they had on us they’ve ignored the the Blockade Runners with their first volley! Anti-Missile systems active, our aerospace forces are moving to engage!†Another crewmen called out.
“Blackstone is moving out of position what the hell are they doing?†Byrne reported from her chair watching the Conquistador move out of the Black Prince’s shadow “no…†she whispered realizing what they were doing. The Blackstone intentionally turned into the path of the incoming capital missiles opening its cargo bay as it went releasing tons of ammunition and spare parts intended for the ground forces creating a massive cloud of debris in front of several of the missiles. One capital missile tore through the formation of debris only to be knocked off course by an exploding long range missile ammunition crate. The second and third missiles slammed into the Blackstone in an instant the DropShip, all the remaining missiles and more than a dozen aerospace fighters were wiped from existence as both missiles nuclear warheads exploded.
The explosive wave from the explosions washed over the Black Prince burning the ships armour and weapons as the massive battleship plowed through the explosion. Alongside the Black Prince several of her escorting aerospace fighters flashed through the fire withstanding the damage and remaining with their carrier but many others were now missing. Deep inside the vessel within the command centre the crewmen darted from console to console monitoring damage. Unlike the popular tri-vids there was no sparks from the consoles or flying crewmen from the explosions instead the crew continued to monitor the situation as the Black Prince continued on its course. “Several weapons out, minor injuries reported on several decks and we’ve lost contact with at least twelve fighters†one officer reported glancing at his screen “maybe a couple have lost communications but most of them are just gone.â€
“We’re not going to let them do that again.†Sviatchenkoat said loud enough for all his crew to hear “have our Blockade Runners kill those DropShips and release all of our aerospace fighters to kill theirs I don’t want a single nuke to get near us. Aft batteries finish the Capellan WarShip as we turn†he ordered watching the holo-tank in front of him as the Black Prince continued its turn the aft naval particle and autocannons tore through the remains of the Zhoushan shattering the frigate’s core destroying the WarShip. Admiral Sviatchenkoat leaned back into his chair trying to ignore the two gravities of acceleration the ship was sustaining during its turn. “Contact the Islington and tell her that she can head to the planet and slow us down allow the medics to move around and help our injured.†He said the battle was not over there were still Capellans out there fighting and they could face attack from the planet’s surface but Sviatchenkoat wanted his crewmen taken care of while there was a lull in the fighting.
-
Battle Line
Hall, Star League Protectorate
8th July 3103
He’d wanted a battle and now a battle was what he was getting Morgan Christifori thought as an autocannon raked over his Penetrator’s hull the shells striking his seventy-five ton Mech doing armour damage but little else. Tracking the enemy Mech to the right hand side Morgan trigged all three left torso medium pulse lasers burning into an enemy Sentinel the forty ton BattleMech staggered under the fire barely remaining on its feet as it continued to run. Even as Morgan turned to follow the lighter Mech his anti-missile system activated cutting down half of an LRM barrage fired from an enemy Griffin. Of the remaining missiles only two slammed into his Mech’s left torso. “So you want to play with a bigger dog?†Morgan whispered rising his Mech’s left arm firing the large laser there completely missing the lighter Mech “just as well I have two†he said raising the right arm firing his other laser. A wave of heat rushed into the Penetrator’s cockpit Morgan fought the heat rise even as his laser blast burned over the smaller Griffin. Even as the medium Mech stepped back it fired another salvo of missiles Morgan’s AMS cut down several of the missiles but a remaining few peppered the Penetrator’s left arm. Morgan stomped down on the pedals of his Mech launching the heavy Mech into the air, the big Mech flew straight into the path of the Sentinel, still fighting the rising heat the Penetrator landed heavily staggering forward. The medium Mech opened fire with its arm mounted autocannon cutting a trail of shots over the Penetrator’s torso and head. As he was was knocked around the cockpit from the hit consoles sparked and shrapnel flew loose striking Morgan’s left shoulder. Morgan screamed from the pain as blood spattered over the consoles from the wound “this is Christifori I’m hit!†He shouted the warning into his helmet mounted microphone he tried to ignore the pain pulling the trigger linked to his pulse lasers half of them missed completely.
Off to his side short range missiles from the Sentinel flew out striking the right hand side of the Penetrator the explosive force launched Morgan’s Mech off to the side. Fighting the pain from his arm Morgan twisted the heavy Mech’s torso following the movement of the Sentinel triggering the pulse lasers. The pulsed weapons crossed the distance between the two Mechs in an instant cutting deeper into the Sentinel’s light armour the damage staggered the Mech causing it to trip and fall. “One down†he commented pulling the trigger again cutting into the downed Mech “and out†he said as his sensors showed the Sentinel’s right leg had been amputated by his second attack. Even as he celebrated the Griffin attacked again hitting his Mech with its particle cannon burning more armour from the left leg. “Is anyone else receiving me? I need some support†Morgan called out looking down at his console his systems were transmitting but it seemed that no-one could hear him. Fighting the pain and the Griffin Morgan launched his Mech into the air on its jump jets once more trying to disengage the lighter Mech was faster than his Penetrator and with its particle cannon it would allow it to remain in range. Even as Morgan tried to disengage missiles flew past the heavy Mech as the Griffin continued to attack. Morgan fought to stay conscious, as his wound continued to bleed, turned the Penetrator again towards the Griffin right into a particle cannon shot which tore into his Mech’s right torso disabling all three pulse lasers there. “Go to hell!†He screamed levelling both of his Mechs arms at the enemy Mech triggering both large lasers at the same time. The two beams momentarily linked the two Mechs as one laser burned over the left leg while the second laser burned over the right torso knocking the Griffin back. Unable to control their Mech under so much damage the Griffin seemed to trip backwards falling onto is back. “We’re not done yet†he said firing both lasers again into the fallen Mech even as Morgan’s fight with consciousness was lost these two blasts cored into the Griffin’s head and torso killing the Mech’s pilot as the Penetrator, with the unconscious Morgan inside, fell to the ground immobile without the control of its pilot.
Around the downed Penetrator the battle raged for nearly thirty minutes as the rest of Morgan’s unit, without the use of communications, fought against nearly a company of pirates who refused to give up. This was to be their last battle on Hall throughout the conflict on the planet the pirates had tried to avoid an open battle but this time they didn’t have that option. With the SLDF dedicated to the destruction of the pirates who had violated their territory the pirate force was completely destroyed in the battle ending the threat on Hall.
After the battle Morgan Christifori, still injured and unconscious, inside the Penetrator was recovered with Morgan credited with kills on both the Griffin and Sentinel due to his heroic actions on Hall Christifori is promoted to the rank of Captain in the Star League Defence Force.
Interstellar News Network
INN Studios, Geneva
Terra, Star League Protectorate
17th July 3103
“Ladies and Gentlemen welcome to Geneva to this is an around the Inner Sphere special with me Klaus Ebenhaeser†the male host said as the lights in the studio slowly raised revealing the two broadcasters in a spacious studio standing near a holographic representation of the Inner Sphere. He was in his early thirties and dressed in a simple business suit without the tie and with the top buttons of his shirt open.
“And me Caroline Franks†his co-host said she had brown hair with blonde highlights and was dressed in a bright blue summer top with dark trousers. “Tonight we start with an evolving story from the Capellan front†she said as the map zoomed in looking at the Capellan Confederation. “For the last few months an escalating conflict has brewed between the Capellan Confederation and the Federated Suns with the Capellan Confederation pushing to recapture the system of Victoria while the Federated Suns continues to defend and counter attack. While the Star League Advisory Council has tried to bring peace between these two nations the Capellan Confederation has continuously rebuffed our efforts. Instead they are intent on pursuing this conflict by any means possible which so far has included the use of nuclear weapons against Federated Suns WarShips.†She said as the camera turned back to her co-host. “As a result the SLDF has announced the formation of another regimental brigade in the Kittery Prefecture to ensure the fighting does not spread into our protected systems.â€
“Yes indeed the Star League Defence Force is dedicated to promoting peace throughout the Inner Sphere but it has promised that should it come to an open conflict it will protect its systems from anyone who attempts to bring conflict to these worlds.†Klaus said agreeing her point “overall the conflict has boiled down to attack and counter-attack with the two sides contesting the Victoria system. On the ground the Capellan Confederation has steadily gained ground while the AFFS have gained control over the space around the system.†Klaus Ebenhaeser explained as the holographic display changed to an image of the planet Victoria. “According to an INN source Duchess Kym Hasek, a member of the Federated Suns Armed Forces, was recently shot down in a skirmish with Capellan forces our sources believe that Duchess Hasek has been airlifted off Victoria and is en-route to Kathil.â€
“In related news the Taurian Concordat’s military forces have been seen in action supporting the Capellan Confederation. As the Taurians are a member state of the Star League Defence Force pressure is mounting on them to withdraw from the conflict or face trade sanctions from the Star League. SLDF Intelligence places recent Taurian troop movements in the Federated Suns systems of Brockway, Carmichael, Lindsay Midale and Defenbaker engaging in combat against the defenders.†Caroline said continuing the piece as the hologram returned to the wider map showing several planets along both Capellan and Taurian borders of the Federated Suns.
“Meanwhile in the Lyran Commonwealth it would appear the enigmatic Bounty Hunter has continued his quest against the pirate and criminal elements that have plagued the region in recent times.†Klaus said as the holographic display changed once more now showing a green painted Marauder II. “In what has been described as a brutal assault the Bounty Hunter led four other Mechs in a morning assault against Blackburn’s Devils on Baltazar III destroying the Devil’s hideout and almost an entire company of mercenaries who had been hired to defend it. Once the operation was complete the Bounty Hunter reportedly delivered Tess Blackburn’s head to the Lyran appointed governor of Baltazar III.â€
“Staying in the Commonwealth we’ve also received reports that the Stone Spirits have attacked the system of Swatkip in the Commonwealth’s Inarcs Theatre.†Caroline said almost immediately trying to put the thought of someone’s head in a box out of her mind “throughout the Star League-era and the Succession Wars Swartkip was a repair and supply point for traders, explorers and the military with its extensive array of DropShip and JumpShip repair stations. For years the system has been protected by a regiment of the Lyran Regulars however recent combat losses against the Stone Spirits and transfers to other borders have seen these defences shrink to as little as a battalion of inexperienced men and women.†She said as the image between her and Klaus was replaced once more this time with an image of a Zeus BattleMech with the Lyran Regulars insignia on its leg and chest. “Knowing their specialist facilities would make them a target for raiders the people of Swartkip along with the worlds of Main Street, Engadine and Elume put their resources together to hire the Chaos Irregulars Mercenary Battalion to supplement their defences.†She said between them the image again was replaced this time by the insignia of the Chaos Irregulars, a planetary eclipse.
“With half of his forces, co-commander of the Chaos Irregulars, Colonel Jake Chowla defended against a Stone Spirit attack by deploying his BattleMechs directly onto the hulls of several space stations while the rest of the Irregulars defended the planet’s surface under the command of Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simson. It is believed that the Irregulars lost nearly half of their forces defending Swartkip but that they have captured at least as much in battlefield salvage turning back the Clan force.†Klaus explained describing the events which had transpired in the far flung star system.
“And finally†Caroline said smiling “it appears that we are not the only citizens who should be afraid of the Clan menace†she said pausing as the image displayed the Clan Occupation Zones with each of the five Clans that resided there represented in different colours; green for the Jade Falcons, a dark blue for the Sea Fox Clan, lime for the Hell’s Horses, brown for the Coyotes and finally light blue for the Rasalhague Dominion. “Over the last month Clan Jade Falcon has lost control over five separate systems to Clan Hell’s Horses.†She said the two clans were highlighted with their Clan crests appearing inside their representative occupation zones “since the Jade Falcons last attempted to expand into the Lyran Commonwealth they have lost territory to Inner Sphere forces, Clan Sea Fox and now Clan Hell’s Horses. It would appear that the Clan has over extended its reach and now even it’s claimed capitol system of Sudeten is threatened by capture from another Clan.†She said as the systems five Coreward of Sudeten turned the lime colour of Clan Hell’s Horses and became part of that Clan’s area of control.
“For all the latest news stories or for further information on the stories we have covered tonight please subscribe to the INN information service.†Klaus said moving on from the stories “INN is dedicated to bringing news stories to all of the Inner Sphere and beyond without bias. Come and join us and show you support the truth. I am Klaus Ebenhaeser…â€
“And I am Caroline Franks†his co-host said with a curt nod to the camera.
“And this was the Intersteller News Network†he said finally “thank you and good night.â€
Medical Ward, Provider (Volga-class Transport)
Helm, Wolf Empire
23rd July 3103
On board the Provider there was a hive of activity as casualties of the recent fighting were brought in. It had started with a simple mercenary raid against the Wolf Empire the Wolves had rebuffed the attack. The Wolves had retaliated against the Daniel’s Avengers positions on Helm and Tania Austrails. Initial combat against the mercenaries had gone well but then something had gone wrong and now the halls of the Provider were filled with injured soldiers and civilians. In a darkened corner one Wolf MechWarrior stirred to consciousness “where am I?†He asked he was still dressed in his sweat soaked t-shirt and shorts his left arm and leg were heavily bandaged but the man didn’t seem concerned with that instead his right arm raised towards his eyes “why can I not see?â€
“You’re safe†Dr Dana Wolf said stepping closer to the bed “you are on board the WarShip Provider, your eye sight will return in time.†She explained pulling his arm back down to the the bed.
“You don’t sound like a Wolf†he said noticing her accent and her easy use of contractions.
“I’m not a Wolf, not by birth anyway†she explained “I was born Dana Carlyle I was born to lead the Grey Death Legion.â€
“Dezgra mercenaries†he replied dismissively “easily crushed under our heel.â€
“Like the Avengers were? Quineg†she demanded using the Clan word carefully the man didn’t reply “you know I chose not to be a warrior? I chose to be a doctor I chose to help people.â€
“How did you end up here?â€
“Sometimes life plays cruel tricks†she said administering a pain killer to the MechWarrior. “I had a responsibility to others of my command I chose to honour those responsibilities†she explained “and almost straight away I ended up captured and back in the job I wanted to do.â€
“Life has a funny way of treating us†he said his right hand drifting to his left arm finally finding the bandages “how bad was I damaged?†He asked almost mechanically
“Your arm and leg were both badly burned in the explosion but both will recover, you will recover fully. You will be able to serve your Clan again.â€
“Our Clan†he reminded her
“Yes MechWarrior our clan†she replied
“Do you know if we were successful on the ground?â€
“Aff†Dana answered “after a fashion†she said seeing the confusion on his face “a chemical plant exploded after it was hit by stray weapons fire. The Galaxy Commander contacted the mercenaries and made a deal. They would be allowed to leave this world and Tania Australis while we would take care of its people.â€
“The stavag mercenaries fired on that plant to end the conflict?â€
“Neg, it was a stray Wolf artillery round that cause the damage†Dana said correcting him “nearly fourteen hundred men women and children so far have been treated. I believe that number will triple before the end of tomorrow by the end of the week that number will again triple.†She said the chemicals which had gone into the atmosphere were lethal to humans trueborn or freeborn it didn’t matter and the winds would bring them in contact with every population centre on the planet and there was little anyone could do about it.
“Sometimes life plays cruel tricks†he said repeating her worlds “my name is Marc.†He said finally introducing himself.
“I read that on your chart†Dana said coldly
“I am sure you did Dana Carlyle†he said turning his head towards her there was little chance that his eye sight had returned yet but his eyes seemed to pierce through her. “But hearing the person say their name is how one gets to to know a person.â€
“Yes it is Marc†Dana said smiling in reply “rest now MechWarrior your Clan will need you soon enough.†She said turning away from the bed.
“Will I see you again Dana Carlyle†he asked using her full name again.
“You never know†she said leaving the Wolf to rest.
-
My thanks to marauder648 and James Tanaga for some help with the Hyde and Hiberus parts
AFFS Invasion
Liao Commonality
Capellan Confederation
11th August 3103
In a coordinated effort AFFS units strike at Styk, Pleione, Poznan and Gan Singh each of the worlds is targeted by two AFFS or mercenary units supported by FSN WarShips. Supporting the units of the Capellan March the Second New Avalon Guards RCT, Third Robinson Strikers LCT, the First New Ivaarsen Chasseurs LCT and the First Dragonlords Regiment all assist in the assault on the four worlds. For the first time in years units from the Draconis March are involved in combat against the Capellan Confederation destroying an entire battalion of the Holdfast Guard on Gan Singh and the Ninth Liao Lancers on Styk.
Two days after the initial attacks the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT, First Davion Guards RCT, the Fourth and Ninth Crucis Lancers RCTs supported by the FSS Pegasus, a Columbia-class Battleship, the FSS Gold Archer, a Robinson Block III-class Transport, the FSS Jerome Davion and FSS Samuel Davion, both Avalon Block II-class Cruisers, assault Liao. The three of the WarShips were supported by half a dozen assault DropShips and hundreds of aerospace fighters as they faced off against the CCSS Sian, a Tikonov-class Carrier, and the CCSS Nikos, a Feng Huang-class Cruiser/Carrier, and their attached air wings as the ground forces, escorted by the FSS Gold Archer, streamed towards the surface intent on attacking the defenders.
Although the Capellans had an advantage in the numbers of aerospace fighters the AFFS WarShips had more capital guns giving them an overall edge. While the ground forces dropped directly on top of the defending Dynasty Guard, Renshield’s Dragoons and the Fourth Capellan Defence Force Regiments engaging all three commands at point blank range.
On the ground across the battle-line explosions rocked BattleMechs as the two opposing Succession States fought several miles south of the City of Desu. In his brand-new Templar III OmniMech Prince Burton Davion fought with the other members of the First Davion Guards turning to the right he cut into the side of a Dynasty Guard Emperor with his assault Mech’s chain whip. The huge chain whip swung around the side of the Emperor smashing the armour mounted there Burton immediately followed up with his Mech’s array of torso mounted pulse lasers not waiting to watch three of them burn across the Capellan design he kept his Templar moving accelerating using its supercharger. Behind the Templar III as the Emperor twisted its torso attempting to track Burton with its autocannons and lasers nearly three dozen long range missiles and several large laser blasts struck the Emperor blasting through the armour and the leg structure smashing the limb knocking the mighty ninety tonner to the ground. The Emperor’s autocannons tore up the ground near the Mech's feet as it fell towards the ground while lasers and autocannons from the other AFFS Mechs around struck the Emperor tearing open the assault Mech.
Prince Burton Davion was already moving forward launching his Mech into the air on its jump jets firing the torso mounted particle cannon into a Raven BattleMech. The man-made lightning bolt burned through the cockpit of the smaller Mech and the Prince had already moved onto his next target a sixty ton Po armoured vehicle. The Mech’s stealth armour masked it from his Templar III’s sensors but the Prince ignored his sensor and the Po’s autocannon tearing into his armour instead charging up to the tank swinging his Mech’s right arm mounted hatchet down on the turret of the Po. The force of the hatchet’s attack split the Po’s turret as the weapon buried itself deeply in the armour. Burton immediately followed up with his attack with the torso mounted pulse lasers which burned deeply into the tank’s armour.
Behind Prince the AFFS rest of the troops struggled to keep up with the heir to the throne who was already moving on from the crippled Po to another Capellan target as it appeared nothing the defenders fired at the Templar III seemed to be able to stop it. To everyone on the battlefield it was obvious that Prince Burton Davion was making a statement that he was more than just his father’s son who would inherit the throne he was also a more than capable fighter. With aerospace fighters in the air overhead the Prince continued to fight against the Capellan forces routing them over and over.
Nearly three hours after their initial landings the AFFS had secured a beachhead on the planet with the Capellan defenders in disarray. Despite the victories of the Federated Suns attackers and their charging Prince none of the defending commands had been destroyed. In orbit the CCSS Sian, CCSS Nikos and FSS Jerome Davion were drifting hulks broken by enemy fighter attacks and naval weapons fire. The remaining ships the FSS Pegasus, FSS Samuel Davion and FSS Gold Archer were all still operational but they burned from enemy attacks including nuclear detonations on or near their hulls. All around the WarShips was wreckage and bodies from the WarShips, aerospace fighters and small craft destroyed or disabled in the naval battle. The initial battles for control over Liao were over the war to win the planet had just begun.
Conflict Line
Hiberus, Rim Collection
Periphery
19th August 3103
“Ladies and gentlemen, I am Clint Goldberg reporting for the Interstellar News Network; today we are embedded with the First Rim Guards CCT on Hiberus. Yesterday morning elements from the First and Second Rim Lancers CCT under the command of Galaxy Commander Andrew Brecht landed on the planet officially to assist Hiberus in defending against a spate of pirate attacks that have struck the system.†The reporter said from behind a barricade. “The leadership on Hiberus has stated that the Lancers presence is purely a ploy by President Karen Able to bring some of her style of authority to Hiberus.†He said looking around the camera followed where he was looking at either side of the barricade there were entrenched BattleMechs, Armoured vehicles and infantry. “Until now the Lancers have remained at their DropShips on the outskirts of this city the commander of the Rim Guards Galaxy Marshal Mandy Hall, relative to Congresswoman Megan Hall, has said she will order her troops to open fire on any of the Lancers who attempt to enter the capital or any of the Guards bases.†Again the camera panned over the troops this time finishing looking down the street across from the entrenched guards.
“Here we go†Goldberg said as a Marshal BattleMech stepped into view the medium Mech was painted in the colours of the Rim Collections Lancer Clusters. “We’re tapped into the Guard’s communication grid. Everything you hear coming up will be between the warriors of the two sides we have no control over what is said.â€
“This is Andrew Brecht of the Rim Collection’s First Rim Lancers we are here to assist in the defense of Hiberus. I have orders, from the President and the Preident’s Council, for my unit to garrison this world in accordance with the Collection’s National Defense Act.†He said his Mech standing at ease opposite the defence line.
“The Hiberus national government and the leader of Hiberus Megan Hall have stated on numerous occasions that Hiberus does not need assistance from offworlders to garrison our home.†The guards commander replied gruffly.
“You will need our assistance as the Second Rim Guards are being redeployed by order of the President†the Lancer officer said as more vehicles and BattleMechs stepped into view. “Hiberus joined the Rim Collection when you became part of a greater whole. The government that you answer to is passing orders you will answ…†he said his words trailing off as the galaxy commander’s sensors detected a weapons lock from one of the Guards Mechs “you don’t want to do this†he warned the Marshal and the other units behind it taking up a more defensive stance “we are on the same side. Lancers no-one, and I mean no-one, fires unless I order it.†He broadcast on an open channel “this does not have to happen†he warned.
Suddenly there was a massive explosion but not from any of the Mechs instead the camera panned into the air and onto descending Fortress and Titan DropShips. As they descended several BattleMechs lept from their Mechbays falling to the ground using their jump jets to slow down before landing. Suddenly between the two Rim Collection military units stood a massive ninety-ton Blood Asp OmniMech painted in the colours of Clan Fire Mandrill on the OmniMech’s left knee was a unique crest. “This confrontation between the Lancers and Guards has been interrupted by Clan Fire Mandrill†Clint Goldberg said “ladies and gentlemen if you are just joining us we are on Hiberus embedded with the First Rim Guards CCT.†He said explaining what was happening “a confrontation between the Rim Guards and Rim Lancers seemed inevitable but that has been interrupted by the unannounced arrival of Clan Fire Mandrill.
“This is saKhan Jonathan Banacek of Clan Fire Mandrill to the collected forces of Hiberus I bring with me the First and Seventh Striker Clusters and my Ash Keshik. My Warriors and I have been authorized by my Khan to stop any conflict on this world by any means necessary.†The MechWarrior said the Blood Asp flexed its massive arms and torso slightly over one shoulder was a massive autocannon while both arms ended in what looked like a type of large laser. From two side streets additional BattleMechs bearing the crest of Clan Fire Mandrill could be seen making their way to support the saKhan.
“You have no right being here†the commander of the Rim Guards said angrily her troops moving their attention between the Rim Lancers Mechs and the Blood Asp.
“I have every right Clan Fire Mandrill became part of the Rim Collection. Under the agreement made by our Clan and the Rim Collection we can react to anything we deem a threat to our Clan’s survival. Civil conflict between factions of this nation threatens our Clan and we will not allow that.â€
“The President is power crazed…â€
“Hiberus threatens our security…†the two began to say simultaneously.
“SILENCE!†Banacek said interrupting them both “you are the guardians of the Rim Collection act like it. Galaxy Commander Andrew Brecht, your Warriors return to your DropShips until tensions are lowered. Galaxy Marshal Mandy Hall, get your men and women off the street and back to your base.â€
“You cannot order us around†the Guards commander replied the Fire Mandrill saKhan did not reply in words instead the Blood Asp’s torso twisted towards the Guards position levelling its weapons behind the saKhan and all around them further Fire Mandrill units had flanked the Guards defence line.
“I will not repeat myself†the saKhan said as the transmission cut out.
“Ladies and gentlemen†Clint Goldberg said breaking in as the camera continued to look at the Blood Asp “it would appear that Clan Fire Mandrill have a lot more say in what happens in the Rim Collection than anyone ever thought before. Today we have seen the Clan faction stop a civil conflict before it started. Tomorrow could we see a Fire Mandrill leader of the Rim Collection or a new occupation zone? The Lyran Commonwealth and the nearby Erdvynn Province must look into the Rim Collection and wonder exactly what is going on inside their neighbour’s borders. I am Clint Goldberg of the Interstellar News Network, thank you for joining us on Hiberus tonight; we will keep you up to date on this evolving story.†He said finally as the camera focused on the Rim Collection troops who were moving off to either side finally the camera focused on the Fire Mandrill Blood Asp once more before the camera faded to black.
Flaming Monkey, Overlord C-class DropShip
Hiberus, Rim Collection
Periphery
20th August 3103
It had taken almost forty-eight hours but finally the two opposing commanders of the Rim Lancers and Rim Guards sat opposite each other. Both had insisted in taking with them an aid and neither had relinquished their weapons. As a result saKhan Jonathan Banacek had placed a point of five Battle armoured Elementals around the room. The Elementals had been ordered by Banacek to eliminate all four of the Rim Collection officers if things got out of hand.
“Yesterday should not have happened†Banacek began once he realized the Rim Collection officers were not going to break the silence none of them replied “you are the guardians of the Rim Collection you need to act like It.†He said berating them slightly.
“We have the right to defend our homes if threatened it is a signature feature of the Rim Collection’s charter agreements.†Mandy Hall replied angrily
“Which is why we are here, to protect all of the planets of the Rim Collection†Andrew Brecht said passionately believing what he was saying “it is Hiberus paranoia that almost brought us into conflict nothing more. President Able wishes for all planets of the Rim Collection to be fully committed to our nation and to each other. Hiberus needs to learn to trust us all.â€
“Trust is hard to come by when you have been alone for so long.†She said referencing the years that Hiberus had survived as a sustenance level colony isolated from trading routes and the HPG communication grid fending off against pirate attacks with armour and infantry as their only defence.
“We were all alone once and we all have to accept change.†Jonathan Banacek said “I was a Star Adder, I was then a Sphinx Raptor and I am now a Fire Mandrill warrior but I am also a Rim Collection citizen. We are no longer alone.†He said swallowing that thought for a moment he was a Clansmen and unlike those who had been born into the Fire Mandrill Clan he had a very set direction he believed his Clan should follow. He wanted his Clan, the Rim Collection and everyone else to know about the direction he through they should take his entrance to the would-be battle on Hiberus had been a statement of intent. For now he would play his Khan’s game and play nice with the Rim Collection but the future would see his Clan rise to greatness once more.
“I will agree to move the Second Rim Guards to the posting the President’s Council has ordered†Mandy Hall said reluctantly. “The First Rim Guards have been asked to take a tour through the Edvynn Province†she said looking between Jonathan Banacek and Andrew Brecht seeing neither disagreed with him “they have recently had a lot of trouble from pirate forces, possibly Lyrans in disguise or possibly something else, perhaps we can convince them that standing alone is not the best course.†She suggested the other two men nodded their agreement.
Several hours later the Second Rim Guards began packing up their equipment and personnel preparing to withdraw from Hiberus. A few days later the Fire Mandrill’s 300th Sentinels Cluster arrived to replace the saKhan’s Ash Keshik and supplement the defences on the planet. The 300th’s mission on Hiberus would be to watch how the Rim Guards and Lancers left on the planet reacted to each other and ensure no trouble broke out. Finally a week after the reorganization of defences began on Hiberus the First Rim Guards lifted off the planet outbound to the nearby Edvynn Province.
Battle-line
Hyde, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd August 3103
The hypersonic slug of a gauss rifle round slammed into the ground and gouged a trench six meters long, mud boiling and steaming from friction of the rounds passing before the round finally was halted. They’d advanced rapidly against the Lyran defenders but to Captain Gilles Ravel this felt all wrong. While the Isle of Skye had broken into the NAIS bunker on Hyde it hadn’t been used by the AFFS in more than twenty years. The NAIS officials had called for revenge against the Isle of Skye and the DMI had been far too ready, in Gilles opinion, to charge into a fight.
“I’d say they have found the range wouldn’t you?†Leftenant Erik Wilkinson said his Longbow standing nearby.
“Shuddup Erik, keep an eye on your HUD.â€
“Yes Cap.â€
The night sky was lit by blue, red and green flashes of laser and particle fire. The bright yellow of autocannon tracer rounds and the orange/red of missile exhausts as AFFS troops in their ‘borrowed’ machines closed in on the lab they had been sent to destroy. The defenders, elements of the Third Isle of Sky Guards though were not giving an inch.
“Bravo this is Delta, should be getting good targeting telemetry now.â€
“Roger that Delta, keep moving, don’t let them get a bead.â€
“Just bring the rain Bravo.â€
There was a small hiss as the covers for the Naginata’s three fifteen tube Long Range Missile Launchers snapped open, the C3 computer talking with the missile launcher, uploading data at a ferocious rate.
“Alright open fire!â€
The fire support lance of a Naginata, Longbow and Witworth began volleying missiles at the distant Lyran Mech’s, the dull roar of the launchers in the cockpits of the machines in no way justifying the violence they were unleashing.
Even though their targets were obscured Delta, a dedicated recon lance was feeding them targeting data, the white flashes in the distance coming thick and fast as the volley found its target.
“Target right!â€
“Got him boss!â€
“Nail that son-of-a-bitch!â€
***
Kommandant Valka, battalion commander of the Third Isle of Skye Guards Second Battalion, grinned as he watched one of the attackers machines get caught square on, the Mech, a Cataphract was being torn apart by sustained fire from his Command lance but still its pilot somehow kept the Mech on its feet despite its right arm being all but severed at the shoulder and fire boiling out of the shredded chest.
An electronic bleep told Valka what he needed to hear and he pressed a button on his Hauptman’s right HOTAS control. The massive Ultra 20 autocannon let out a long sustained BRRRRRRT! The two machines momentarily linked by fire before the Cataphract simply came apart, the ammo finally cooking off as the 70 machine simply ceased to exist above the hips, its death blast throwing the area into stark relief for a few brief seconds.
“Herr Kommandant.â€
“Go Kaptain.â€
“We’re being hit hard, they’ve got some C3 units pinning us down, we can’t move out without getting god knows how many missiles fired at us.â€
“Understood, hold there and don’t let them near the bunker!â€
“Jawhol Kommandant!â€
With a Company to hold the ground and their comm’s jammed against a considerable number of attackers Kommandant Valka was glad for his infantry support and that the rest of the Regiment was on its way. ‘Hold until relived’ simple enough.
“Have these bastards ID’d themselves yet?â€
“Not yet Sir, just a lotta Cappie and Snake machines and tank support, about a battalion’s worth.â€
“Hauptmann Wolfe’s tanks are engaging them.â€
That made the Kommandant grin, someone in their wisdom had put a quartet of Gurtelier’s with the Regiment little more than two months ago, the four tanks were dug in near the bunker with the infantry and would be a great anvil.
“Alright, move out, relaying checkpoint Quebec.â€
“Target! Dragon, range…six thirty seven!â€
“On!â€
There was a hydraulic whine as the turret turned slightly, the gun elevating, the heavy CLUNK-THUD of a round being chambered into the Poland Gauss Model A Gauss was followed by the whine of the capacitor drawing from the reactor, building up a charge in three seconds.
“Up!†An odd phrase, one from Terra’s past used by tank crews to indicate their main weapons were ready to fire.
Peering through her sight Hauptmann Wolfe looked at the glowing thermal image of her target even as it spat a bolt of particle light at them. “Fire!â€
Her gunner, Private Luis stomped down on the firing pedal and both, linked into the tanks damn advanced and achingly expensive FCS hammered back the fire they were reciving.
“Hit!â€
“AMS Engaging!â€
“Ours or the bunkers?â€
“Both!â€
“Up!â€
“FIRE!â€
***
In the air above the battle Leftenant Mokate grunted as he pulled the stick back hard and to the right, throwing his ‘borrowed’ Mengqin into a hard right turn, his ‘bitching betty’ warning system nagging about a missile lock, the rear mounted small pulse laser automatically tracking and engaging the SRM’s that the computer detected would come close.
“Get this…rhhnn…scum off my ass! Where’s our bloody top cover?â€
His fighter’s rear facing radar and cameras showed the Thunderbird; some variant that dropped the LRM’s and went for Streak’s SRM’s straining to follow his move, the pilot caught out by the sudden sharp turn of his opponent.
Before the big Lyran bird could bring its nose around another fighter slotted into its six and let rip, the Lyran fighter bucked and jerked as the Slayer’s lasers and auto-cannon chewed and melted armour on its port wing and the Lyran bird fell away trailing smoke.
“Sorry boss got a bit busy.â€
“Alright…Theta, drop in low and hammer those damn tanks! Our boys are counting on us so hit them hard and hit them often!†Viewed from above the battle lines were a confused mess, intermingled Mech’s hammering away at each other in one area, others had Mech’s blazing away at targets they could only see on their sensors as faint heat blooms and vague outlines.
***
It took a further three hours for the Federated Suns forces in their disguise to finally breach the bunker complex that was their target, with two of the Gurtelier’s burning outside the main entrance and the other two withdrawn with heavy damage. With the area secured a mauled Akuma smashed the doors in with a heavy kick allowing their infantry and Special Forces to enter the facility.
“WHAT!?â€
“It’s virtually empty Sir…there’s a couple of pallets of equipment marked for delivery to Defiance Industries that’s it, otherwise it’s been stripped.†The trooper said again as they moved through the facility, there should have been an entire DropShip’s worth of experimental cargo inside the facility. And not it appeared that all the technology had been removed to Hesperus II or some other Defiance Industries research station.
A static blurt muffled the assault commanders anger as he turned the air blue in his Mech’s cockpit.
“Say again Sir…you broke up.â€
“I said all forces withdraw… Call in the DropShip we need to get off this rock.†He ordered the remaining Isle of Skye forces were closing on them and this mission was not a suicide mission and they could not be captured. One of the bean counters back in the Federated Suns could figure out if the costs they’d paid today had been worth it and if taking on Defiance Industries was really in their interest.
AUTHOR NOTE: Yes Burton's piloting a Templar III B with a hatchet and chain whip why because it one of the cooler designs in TRO 3145 and it sounded a lot of fun
-
Medical Wing, Steiner Royal Palace
Arcturus, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
9th September 3103
Archon Jessica Steiner and her husband Admiral Patrick Doyle become parents for a second child as Isla Steiner is born at the Steiner Palace on Arcturus. With the death of their first child Blaine Steiner and with Jessica Steiner’s recent decision to step away from active service in the LCAF she hopes to be able to concentrate fully on her daughter’s care and development.
While the Lyran Commonwealth celebrate the birth of an heir to the throne the LCAF also have something else to celebrate. Since 3094 the Lyrans had been in possession of an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser which they had discovered crippled in the Sweet Water system. The Aegis had previously belonged to Clan jade Falcon and gone missing in 3087. Sweet Water itself was inhabited by the passengers and crew of the Aegis and since their discovery the Lyrans had worked with them to turn Sweet Water into a prosperous colony world. At the same time the Lyrans had worked with the former-Jade Falcons to repair the vessel enough to move it from the system and finally their work had paid off. With a flash of light the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Sweet Water, formerly known as the Blue Talon, left the system heading for the Alarion system.
Briefing, District of Oriente Wing
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
12th September 3103
On the Capital of the reformed Free Worlds League Duke Jonas Halas listened to his five military advisors as they sat around the planning table. Duke he mused for a moment he was Captain-General of Oriente the guardian of fifty-nine worlds, billions of Free Worlds League souls, the supreme commander of nineteen regiments and eleven WarShips. But under the agreement of the reborn Free Worlds League he like the leaders of the other Free Worlds League Districts could hold a position no higher than Duke only the elected Captain-General could be refered to differently. But that was not what was being discussed today.
“The recent Capellan Confederation attempt to retake Liao was unsuccessful with the CCSS Kali Liao completely destroyed during the assault while their ground forces were turned back from the planet. During the attack the Capellans were able to destroy the FSS Samuel Davion which had been damaged in the first battle of Liao.†Admiral Benjamin Summer said briefing Jonas Halas before retaking his chair.
“Our analysts believe that the Capellans have stripped the majority of their house troops and mercenary forces from the worlds of Vertabren, Suzano, Asuncion, Krybacken and Zion leaving minimal defences.†General Stormy Hutton said standing replacing the Admiral. “We believe there is heavy fighting on Zion and Krybacken as the AFFS attempt to break House Liao’s supply lines. While the mercenaries on Asuncion have indicated to our operatives they do not plan on being destroyed trying to keep House Liao’s fading war effort going.â€
“So you both believe that our forces can overwhelm these five worlds with minimal losses?â€
“With the WarShips Ipswich, Cole Harbour and Kearny in support we will be able to move against the Capellans without disrupting our other WarShips.†Summer said “the Santorini Battle Group can remain at New Delos and provide support if required.†He said naming Oriente’s only Thera centred group of WarShips.
“We can send two regiments to each planet without damaging our defences. A combination of our own and mercenary forces†Hutton said “if the rumours regarding the mercenaries on Asuncion are correct we should have an onsite reserve force immediately.†His confidence was catching but it didn’t take much to catch Halas’ attention or convince him to cause damage to House Liao.
“Go†Jonas Halas said after thinking for several moments “we strike and we strike hard.â€
Three weeks later the District of Oriente strike at the systems of Vertabren, Krybacken, Asuncion, Suzano and Zion. As expected on Asuncion the mercenary regiment Bret’s Bombardiers accepted they were outmatched by the Oriente troops and agreed to turn over the planet of Asuncion as long as Oriente provided them with transport well beyond the Capellan borders. The commander of the attack on Asuncion General Ryan Deveraux personally promises the mercenaries that he will arrange for them to travel to the Galatea Station. Vertabren, Krybacken and Suzano fall quickly to the Oriente troops who are dedicated to the swift conquest of the systems.
The only real resistance comes on Zion where a three way fight breaks out between the Fourth Fusiliers of Oriente, the Capellans Third Capellan Defence Force and Irregular House Davion forces led by the McKinnon’s Battalion and Avanti’s Angels Mercenary unit. For nearly a full month fighting occurs between all three sides with none able to put down the other forces. During the fighting the people of Zion take up arms themselves intent on defending their own people if necessary they are able to commandeer the local HPG and call for assistance from the SLDF.
In early January 3104 Star League Defence Force help finally arrives in the form of the First Knights of the Inner Sphere Brigade and the WarShip SLS Invincible, a Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser. Although the Knights of the Inner Sphere have been out of combat operations for a while the sheer numbers the brigade brings to the system are able to bring an end to the fighting with Zion officially joining the Star League Protectorate.
With Oriente and the AFFS units withdrawing from the system the remaining commanders of the Second Capellan Defence Force find that their regiment had been abandoned by the Capellan High Command and that no unit would be sent to recall them. While the SLDF offered the warriors of the Second a place within the SLDF the Capellans are aware that their unit would be split up instead Sang-shao Matt Blackledge negotiated with the SLDF for passage to Galatea Station, turning over a battalion of stealth armoured Mechs and vehicles to the SLDF to pay for the rest of the unit to make it, on Galatea Station they would form the mercenary command Blackledge’s Iron Hand.
Loading Dock
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
22nd September 3103
There was many things that Dana Carlyle had expected in life but one thing she hadn’t expected was moving medical equipment onto a DropShip for Clan Wolf. Nor had she ever expected to be treated with so much contempt from another human being. As she moved the equipment from place to place one of Clan Wolf’s finest stood guard watching her not lifting a finger to help instead he barked orders to Dana and the other staff members of the Provider.
After moving what seemed to be the thousandth box into the DropShip Dana headed back into the warehouse entering the room she immediately felt an arm around hers turning her around and into a darkened corner. “Hello Doctor†the deep male voice said before planting a kiss on her lips.
“Marc?†Dana said pulling back from him “what are you doing here? I didn’t even know you were on the planet!â€
“Well I didn’t know you were here either.†He said easily using the same contractions she did they had spent a lot of time together during his recovery on board the Provider. The trueborn MechWarrior had done exactly what Clan warriors were not supposed to do he’d felt something for a freeborn.
“Bull, there’s no way you didn’t know I was here.â€
“Do you have to use so many contractions?†He asked he sounded irritated but ended up his question with a smile showing he wasn’t that annoyed. “So maybe I knew you were here and maybe I volunteered to escort this supply run just in case I bumped into you.â€
“You came looking for me†Dana stated teasing a little “why?â€
“Honestly I wonder that myself†he admitted “but I was drawn back to you.†Marc said “seems we have a connection that I do not really understand.†He said kissing her again
“Connections of the heart rarely make sense†she admitted kissing him back “you are going to get me into trouble with our slave driver…†she said glancing out the door not seeing the warrior who was guarding them.
“I gave him some time off†he explained “and I might have told the others to take a break, would not want to harm their delicate hands.†He said kissing her hand.
“So we have time…â€
“Yes a little†he said their little time turned into several hours of time in the warehouse and in Marc’s nearby ground car. They then returned to their duties serving Clan Wolf surprisingly nothing was said to Dana when she returned to work instead there was more being said about the warrior who had been guarding them. He’d been found unconscious in a dark corner covered in locally made alcohol apparently with no memory of what had happened Marc’s “giving him a break†she guessed. She had no idea what Marc was up to or if she’d see him again for now all she could do was get back to work loading the DropShip ready to return to return to duty on board the Provider with a memory of what had happened on Sheridan.
-
Update for the weekend
Planning Rooms, Capellan March HQ
Kathil, Kathil PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
5th October 3103
“ATTENTION!†One of the security officers called out from the door across the planning room officers that were standing turned to face the call while those that were sitting sat straighter. Walking through the various officers and screens Duchess Kym Hasek entered the command room she was walking with a cane as she continued to recover from her injuries sustained in the crash on Victoria. At the table Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek stood beside Colonel Richard Steiner, her husband, Richard watched her move through the room and he could see the differences in her walk.
“Welcome back to Kathil Duchess Hasek†Nathaniel greeted as Kym stopped and saluted.
“Thank you Field Marshal†she replied as the two men saluted her she like Nathaniel she spoke loud enough for the officers in the first level of officers to hear.
“Welcome home†Richard said she gave him a strange look for a moment before answering.
“Kathil may be where we will command our military but it isn’t my home. New Syrtis always will be.†She answered Richard had lived here since the Uhlans had almost been destroyed fighting the Capellans their son Andreas was here and she would be stationed on Kathil for the the duration of her recovery but Kathil would never be her home. “What’s out status?â€
“As we predicted with our core forces directed to the conquest of Liao our forces have had to retreat from Victoria.†Nathaniel Hasek said glancing at Richard Steiner, it had been the young man’s plan to strike at Liao thinking it would break the Capellans but it seemed there was still some fight in the Confederation.
“We also believe we will lose Jacson and Yuris within the next month.†Richard added again the two worlds were already highlighted green it wasn’t a huge surprise to lose the two worlds the Capellans had been raiding them for months and even with the significant support from the navy if the ground forces didn’t withdraw the AFFS would likely lose the units stationed there.
“To add to our troubles the Concordat have launched attacks on Rollis and Corodiz†Nathaniel added Kym Hasek felt the pain of each loss almost as much as when she’d been injured on Victoria.
“How far back could they push us?†She asked looking down at the map below although Nathaniel Hasek was the ranking officer in the Capellan March and Richard technically outranked her Kym was still the Duchess of New Syrtis and it was her March.
“We suspect that we will lose Bromhead, Carmichael, Horsham and Mendham by the end of the year†Richard Steiner said highlighting the planets which extended from the Taurian Concordat border to the Capellans. “If the Capellans and Taurians continue to work together we may lose systems as far as Ridgebrook by the end of 3104.†He said highlighting another five systems.
“Is there any good news?†Kym said feeling a little hollow at the thought Richard’s plan had netted them Liao but they’d lost so many more systems.
“Now that the District of Oriente has hit the Capellan Confederation’s flank Prince Burton Davion is using his success on Victoria as a springboard.†Nathaniel Hasek said changing the map to show the other side of the Capellan Confederation. “Forces under his command have struck at Shensi, Hunan, St Andre and Shipka.â€
“What is the level of Capellan resistance?†She asked looking at the map
“Significant†Richard replied “in the Hunan system the FSS Ardan Sortek sustained significant damage to Capellan fighter attacks while the Wild Geese lost two DropShips fighting their way onto St Andre. We believe that the mercenary’s commander was killed on one of their DropShips.†He said “the Lexington Combat Group have also taken heavy damage defending Lee from a Capellan counter attack. While the militia's of Moravian, Cammal and Monhagen have all reported increases in Capellan raids.â€
“They are aiming for Kathil†she said looking at the worlds that had been attacked. We seize Liao and they retaliate by aiming for here. They want to cripple the Capellan March.â€
“What they should be doing is aiming for Burton Davion’s units the Prince is the one on the move.†Richard said frustrated it had been his plan to push the Capellans from Liao instead of trying to hold Victoria. He’d given up any hopes he had of travelling to Liao to personally lead the offensive but now he wished he was there instead of on Kathil.
“So what you’re saying is that despite the fact that we’ve bled as much as Burton Davion and that is was the Capellan March’s actions in seizing Victoria in the first place that gave us this opening that Burton Davion will claim all the glory from this operation?†Kym asked sharply she wasn’t frustrated instead she was angry.
“Duchess†Nathaniel Hasek said butting in his use of her title showing his intent to get her to look at things from a bigger perspective “that is not what is meant by what Colonel Steiner has said. As Richard quite rightly points out Burton Davion is taking it upon himself to push the Capellans beyond the goals of the original operation. His forces are driving back the Capellans for now and so if the Confederation was smart they would strike at Burton instead of us.†The Field Marshal explained
“Indeed†Richard said agreeing with the older man “instead they are continuing to assault worlds around Victoria intent on driving us back and trying to make us believe they’d try to attack Kathil.â€
“You don’t think they will?†Kym asked more civily this time with a small apologising smile.
“No†Richard “Kathil is too heavily defended we some of the Federated Suns best ground and naval forces available not counting the reinforcements we could call. At present they think we are rolling back from Victoria but if they went anywhere near any of our core worlds they’d find out exactly what we have in reserve.†He said drawing his hand over the worlds near Victoria “if we’d tried to hold those systems we’d have lost most of the regiments based there.†He said bluntly “we all knew that when Liao was selected as a target. Any Capellan commander that takes a minute to think about it will realize that much.â€
“But will the Chancellor?†Kym asked “in the meantime what’s out plan?â€
“We continue to be the distraction†Nathaniel said “while the Prince hits the Capellans from one side we hold the Chancellor’s attention and if necessary we give up a couple of systems†he said seeing Kym’s distaste for the idea. “But in doing so we’ll break the Confederation if they keep pushing us.â€
“And if they stop?â€
“We’ll still hold Liao and it will be in a far more secure place than Victoria ever was.†Richard said confidently bringing a full smile from Kym. The Capellan March and the Federated Suns had the Capellan Confederation under control. The Taurian Concordat’s recent attacks were worrying but the AFFS could deal with them once they had out lasted the Capellans.
Announcement
Aether, New Quarter
Fronc Reaches, Periphery
12th October 3103
The screen came up slowly showing a man with greying hair a black blazer jacket and a blue/black checked shirt with the top button open. “Ladies and Gentlemen I am Governor Ellis Von Danzuch leader of Aether. Today I speak to you as a man with a broken heart but one who is determined to do what needs to be done. Over the course of the last few months my world has seen its defences stripped to the bare minimum as the Taurian Concordat attempts to prosecute an illegal war against the Federated Suns, another member of the reborn Star League. Our leader Protector Erik Martens-Calderon is being drawn down the wrong path by military warmongers who believe that we can match the Federated Suns. Ladies and Gentlemen I am sorry to say that we cannot†he said glancing down at his feet for a moment before looking back up “the Federated Suns can and will return our attacks and when they do they will destroy our military as they have done repeatedly for centuries. The Taurian Concordat should concentrate on defending the worlds it currently commands instead its border worlds have been abandoned. I have learned that Portland, Sananda, Argos, Carthage and Hellespont have been treated like Aether their defences stripped and their mercenary support reassigned.†He said again looking to the floor before looking back up to the camera “so over the last three months we have collectively reached out for support and found some from the Fronc Reaches.†He said glancing to the ground for a third time before returning his gaze to the camera “so with a broken heart it has fallen to me to announce that the worlds of Aether, Portland, Sananda, Argos, Carthage and Hellespont are withdrawing from the Taurian Concordat and joining the Fronc Reaches. Together we will form the New Quarter of the Fronc Reaches and we will take our new state to new heights progressing with the colonial expansion and combined defence effort that turned the New Colony into the Fronc Reaches. We pray that the Taurian Concordat leadership will see our succession not as a rebellion but instead as one intended on turning the nation around and back to the core values that made the Taurian Concordat great.â€
Joslyn Armstrong, Vulcan 6-class Defence Station
Wildwood, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
23rd October 3103
Most systems of the Inner Sphere and Periphery lacked any sort of space defences Wildwood had been lucky to purchase a Vulcan 6-class Space Station from the Twin Sons system of the Free Worlds League’s District of Lesnovo. Nightly the fifty-six crewmen monitored the jump points while the space station’s six aerospace fighters patrolled the area around the four thousand ton station. Wildwood was rarely visited by passing JumpShips but its position close to the disputed territory between the Magistracy and the Marian Hegemony meant the people trusted the crew of the Joslyn Armstrong to defend them.
Commander America Park reclined on the chair in the command centre listening to the systems of her space station as she read a delightful romance novel which had arrived from Canopus. It was by one of her favourite Canopus based authors Marg Bunbury and followed the story of an intrepid Magistracy Armed Forces aerospace fighter pilot who fought off enemies of her home while falling in love with a dashing JumpShip commander. Suddenly alarms sounded in the command centre as the the station's sensors detected multiple incoming vessels. “No… no, no, no†she whispered releasing her pad which floated away “wake up Riccardo†she said looking over at the other person there the younger man woke up with a start “we’ve got trouble!â€
“Marians?†He asked
“If it is they’ve gotten something really big†America answered as there was a massive flash of radiation and light. Suddenly a huge one thousand four hundred-and-five metre long McKenna-class WarShip entered the system “oh my gosh†she whispered looking at the huge vessel it was painted in the same deep greens used by the Star League Defence Force but it lacked any form of insignia to indicate where its loyalties laid. Moments later there were four more flashes behind the WarShip as four Tramp-class JumpShips joined the battleship.
“Jesus†Riccardo said “look at her she looks like she’s been through hell†he said looking over the McKenna her hull was blackened by scorch marks and pieces of the hull were completely missing. “We’re receiving a hail†America nodded and he activated the communications system.
“This is Captain William Robert Raphael Leroy-Dietrich the commander of the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts to Magistracy space station we mean no hostile intent.†The man’s voice announced “we request passage through the Magistracy of Canopus we will remain on station until Magistracy authorities arrive in system. Any hostile action against the Subtlety or any of our JumpShips will be met with the use of the maximum force available to our WarShip. She might look like a wreck but I promise you looks can be deceiving.â€
“We’ve got aerospace fighters in the air†Riccardo said watching his screens several tiny aerospace fighters had launched from the McKenna’s battered green hull.
“We need to speak to the planet and to Canopus†America Park said watching the massive battleship unfurl its jump sail behind it the JumpShips were doing the same they'd be here for a while.
-
Life Fire Testing Grounds
South of Houston, Borghese
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd November 3103
“Scientist you have a strange sense of live fire testing†Star Colonel Tim Lassenem said smirking looking at the engineer who had accompanied them to Borghese. They had landed four hours before and barely made a single move towards the planetary capital instead they had marshaled their forces giving the defenders plenty of time to prepare their defence.
“It is the best test of these units†Scientist Ayer said “the Lyrans and their mercenary scum will not be prepared for our little surprise.â€
“These units are very important to our Clan’s development Scientist†Lassenem said raising the binoculars to his eyes as the Hell’s Horses units moved forward a single Star of Mechs, a star of quad battle armour and two stars of wheeled vehicles.
“I know how important they are it was our people who helped build them.†He said as the Hell’s Horses engaged the Lyran and mercenary defenders. Immediately Tim Lassenem could see the Advanced Tactical Missiles mounted on the Solace Light Missile Tanks open fire. Between the ten vehicles two hundred-and-ten tactical missiles flew from their turret mounted launchers blanketing the Lyran troops. Under their fire the Buraq star ran in twenty-five quad battle armour suits unleashing their own missile attacks on the enemy.
“Magnificent†Tim Lassenem said watching the attack unfold even as the five Parash BattleMechs closed on the enemy Arrow artillery missiles flew over the top of the units after being fired moments before from the Hadur Fast Support vehicles which had remained nearby along with the rest of their forces. As the missiles landed around the Lyran forces causing yet more confusion the Parash Mechs stepped into the battle firing their large pulse lasers.
“We are reading several equipment failures†Ayer said looking at his screens.
“They are engaged in combat I am not completely surprised†Lassenem said watching the battle unfold from this far was not what he would have preferred to be involved in the battle but it was not his time.
“These failures are not only being caused by Lyran fire†Ayer snapped angrily drawing a look from the Star Colonel “I apologies†Ayer said immediately not looking up from his screen “we have lost three points of Battle Armour and the weapons on four of the Solace.†Ayer reported
“I can see that†Tim Lassenem said watching as a gauss rifle slammed into one of the Parash BattleMechs. Although the slug did not appear to penetrate the Mech’s armour it staggered backwards away from the enemy the Mech barely remaining standing “what is wrong with them?†He demanded watching as another Mech recoiled almost as if it was in pain after being struck by a laser blast.
“It is the enhanced imaging!†Ayer said looking at the data “the feedback is far worse than we expected.â€
“Fix it!†Tim Lassenem ordered the flustered scientist.
“I can’t not right now we need to evaluate the data†Ayer said looking up “today has helped us we can perfect these units in time.â€
“So your team can use the data to complete our designs?†Lassenem asked waiting until the scientist looked up at him. The scientist realized the Star Colonel was furious with him Ayer quickly nodded. “Good then your service has been appreciated†he said drawing his sidearm and quickly shooting the man in the head. Lassenem looked at the other scientist who stood nearby “this experiment is over recall your troops before you lose them all.†The Star Colonel commanded raising his radio “First Horde Cluster do your duty and finish the job.†He said all along the battle-line BattleMechs, vehicles and Battle Armour of Lassenem’s Cluster moved forward as one opening fire with missiles, particle cannons, lasers and autocannons.
Reeling from the initial Hell’s Horses assault the attack of the First Horde Cluster was far too much for the Lyrans. The First Horde Cluster tore through the Fourth Commonwealth Guards, the militia troops and the mercenaries arrayed against them the Cluster’s warriors eager to show that they should have been allowed to complete the world’s conquest without the little scientist experiment. The First Horde MechWarriors and Elementals had been at the heart of the Mongol Doctrine that had taken hold of the Hell’s Horses Clan and they let loose their anger on the defenders. As they overran the Lyrans the First Horde went through the battlefield from downed Mech-to-Mech, vehicle-to-vehicle slowly ensuring that every defender was dead. As an example to the planet’s population Star Colonel Tim Lassenem personally saw to the deaths of the planet’s civilian leadership.
Raider Assault
New Home, Star League Protectorate
12th November 3103
The Avanti’s Angels mercenary battalion surface on New Home supporting Baron Shienze, an employer from early in their career. The combined-arms force stays true to their reputation going on the assault against a pirate force which had been causing problems for the planet’s local Guard Regiment. On the battlefield for the last time Colonel Marcus GioAvanti marshals the mercenaries to victory from his Cestus BattleMech leading from the front Major Michelangelo GioAvanti, Marcus’ son, leads the Angels main force during the battle cementing his leadership of the mercenary battalion.
Planning Room, Night Talon (Nightlord II-class Battleship)
Morges, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
20th November 3103
Khan Ruel Chistu stood looking data screen at the Horsemaster, an HH-class Yardship, as it moved closer to the crippled Silver Talon. The Nightlord II-class Battleship had lingered in this system for far too long and it was needed in the Jade Falcon Touman. Behind him saKhan Jana Pryde stood near the planning table.
“We’re over-extended†Jana said looking at the table
“Damn your contractions speak properly†Ruel demanded looking back over at her Jana Pryde was a young woman full of life and fire her short blonde hair arranged evenly around her face.
“We’re over-extended, we are over-extended, it does not make an ounce of difference our Touman has not grown enough to match the territory we have. Even with the territory we have traded to the Hell’s Horses for the use of the Horsemaster we need more combat units. The fighting on Blumenort, Sargasso, Biuque and Wroclaw is sapping more of our strength. From what I have read about the front-lines we’re unable to capture either of Biuque or Wroclaw just a waste of resources.â€
“Sigma Galaxy has completed its transition into becoming a Front-Line unit while Tau Galaxy is almost operational.†Ruel Chistu countered watching the Horsemaster complete its docking with the crippled Battleship.
“We need to increase production of BattleMechs and Battle Armour and we need to get Omicron Galaxy operational.†Jana said frustrated slamming down her notputer the Jade Falcon Touman was stretched thin even graduating this year of Falcon cadets and accepting a record number of armoured vehicles into their Touman they were struggling to control the populations under them.
“The Sea Foxes have approached us again†Ruel Chistu said he knew their production stats and that the Sea Foxes wished to take control over Roadside and Kooken’s Pleasure Pit adding to the territory they had taken control over recently. “We could use the equipment they are offering…â€
“We could†Jana Pryde agreed “rumours suggest they have approached the systems of Wotan, Golandrinas, Bone Norman, Barcelona and Newton Square. They are picking over all the worlds that we have released in recent years.†Jana Pryde said disgusted at the thought that the Foxes were even looking at those planets she’d have happily seen them die away.
“Who cares†Ruel Chistu said finally turning around from the screen “we need the assets they want a pair of worlds I care nothing for!†He said his temper flaring.
“You seem to have made up your mind?†She asked calmly
“And if I have?†Ruel Chistu challenged “do you wish to try and change my mind?†He asked stepping closer to her he was big a big warrior for a MechWarrior and could be very intimidating but she was faster. In a blink of an eye the young saKhan had her legs wrapped around the Khan but not in attack instead her lips quickly found his in a deep embrace. They had been involved when Ruel Chistu was a Star Colonel and Jana Pryde a young firey Star Captain it was purely physical but they both liked physical. With her legs locked around him Ruel Chistu moved the Khan quickly slamming her against the bulkhead wall Jana Pryde moaned “well he probed looking at her.â€
“No I’m not going to you will be getting rid of two planets we don’t need†she answered as he turned her back towards the planning table the saKhan’s body sending papers flying.
“Your damned contractions†Ruel Chistu commented
“Horrible aren’t they?†Jana Pryde said leaning forward opening the top of his uniform jacket. Over the next few days the Sea Foxes moved forces onto Roadside and Kooken’s Pleasure Pit a few weeks later Wotan, Golandrinas, Bone Norman, Barcelona and Newton Square the Jade Falcons paid little attention to the Sea Fox moves instead they benifitted from nearly three clusters of Mechs, armour and battle armour and continued to have secure shipping lanes through Sea Fox controlled space.
-
This scene is particularly big and needs its own post. It came originally from marauder648 who came up with the idea of the battle and provided most of the work I just played about with it and expanded it. So my thanks to marauder648
Operation Doolittle
Sudeten, Pirate Point between Sudeten and the moon Saar
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
23rd November 3103
The Werewolf flashed into existence, her Lithium Fusion battery already charging up to jump in an emergency as the WarShip’s main drives fired. If somehow anyone missed the massive thermal radiation flare of the ships arrival, no one missed what came next as it was broadcast across the entire system.
“Attention defenders of Sudeten and Warriors of Clan Jade Falcon, this is saKhan Declan Kerensky of Clan Mountain Wolf, I bring with me three full Clusters of Mountain Wolf troops as well as the WarShip Werewolf we challenge you for possession of your resources, your Mech’s and Sibko’s. With what forces do you propose to defend your Capital World and dare to face the jaws of the Wolf?â€
“You and those of your ilk are little more than dezgra Mercenaries, if you want our world we will face you with everything you have. Not one mongrel will live to see the sun rise!â€
The link terminated with a static hiss and Kerensky grinned broadly, turning to the Werewolf’s commander. “I guess that means we will not be granted Safcon, launch the dropships and aerospace fighters, I will be with our forces on the ground, I leave the naval battle entirely in your control.â€
“Status change! We have pre-emergence neutrinos!â€
“Distance?â€
“One million kilometres off our port bow.â€
Conducting an in system jump the CJF Falcon’s Nest, a Texas-class Battleship, and one of only two left in known existence made her entrance in a white flash, her engines already firing, DropShips detaching.
“You had best get to your Dropship; we will hold them off and engage any targets of opportunity.â€
Kerensky nodded and then saluted “Happy Hunting Star Admiral Scott Conners.â€
The three Wolf Overlord C’s burned hard towards Sudeten, the Werewolf fighters flying top cover as well as the Isegrim Smaug that was already firing at distant targets with her sub-capital missiles
The three Overlords hit the ground, their ramps spilling forth Mountain Wolf Mech’s issuing their challenges to the Falcon defenders as they formed up and moved out. Fighters from the Werewolf were busy guarding the ship so it fell to those of the Titan Carrier Hercules’ Strength to watch over the ground forces whilst the Smaug clawed her way skyward on pillars of fusion fire to join the battle overhead.
Landing eighty kilometres north of the Capital city the Wolves moved out en-mass whilst the Falcons scrambled to meet them, alert klaxons blaring in dozens of Mech Hangars and in the fortifications surrounding the Olivetti Works.
---
Onboard the Werewolf the Wolf gunners were enjoying the targeting practice against the Jade Falcon installations and shipping. “Target in range!â€
“Fire!â€
Brilliant blue beams of particle fire blazed through space, melting the thin hide of Forge 12/Q, a largely automated refining plant for endo-steel. The structure, many thousands of tonnes in mass came apart, disintegrating as its structural integrity failed; brief flashes of fire marking where the particle bolts had ignited the stations atmosphere
“Range to the Falcon’s Nest?â€
“She is entering extreme range for our guns now and is turning to bring her broadside to bare on us!†One of the Wolves called out
“Match her course, have the Smaug and Garm stick close to us and provide anti-missile protection, guns rip her open!â€
---
As the two goliaths fought over the space around Sudeten with naval weaponry below on the planet the Wolves and Jade Falcons engaged each other with smaller but no less deadly weapons.
“Falcon scum you face Star Captain Iwona Chistu! Step forwards and meet your death!†Oh sure she KNEW she was hamming it up, perhaps she’d watched that Spheroid children’s cartoon a bit too much but still.
“Missile lock. Missile lock. Missile lock. Missile lock!â€
A Falcon Night Gyr had answered his challenge and Iwona grinned, keying her Night Wolf’s weapon systems as the two Mech’s thundered forwards. It had not been any formal battle of old, rather a rapidly escalating series of meeting engagements when Stars and Binary’s ran into each other.
“Star Captain, there are some Falcon tanks moving to the north east, permission to engage?â€
“Wipe them out, keep them from flanking us!â€
There was a yowl as the Night Wolf’s Advanced Tactical Missile’s got a good solid lock and the Mech shuddered as it began volleying missiles.
---
Behind the Jade Falcon lines at the Olivetti Works Factory a less intense conversation was taking place as a Warrior looked at a prize that even the Wolves knew nothing of. “Sir, they are barely ready, these are pre-production prototypes, the Shrike has only moved from its construction bay to where it is now.â€
“But they are armed and operational Quiaff?†He asked looking over the BattleMech that stood beside him it was as if a Jade Falcon had inhabited the design.
“Aff, but I must advise strongly against their deployment, testing has only barely begun and we do not know of any kinks and flaws, yes they can fight but we do not know how well.†The Chief Technician glanced at his comrades for assistance but they did not want to draw the wrath of the Elemental. He didn’t want to push the designs before they were ready.
“They are avatars of the Clan; I will give you three Stars of my finest Mech Warriors. We cannot let the Dezgra Wolves close with this facility; these machines will drive them back in ruin.â€
“But…Sir…â€
“It is the Khan’s will. Do you wish to go against the orders of your Khan?†The Elemental turned slowly, his Myomer hand flexing, EI tattoos glinting in the harsh factory lighting.
“N-Neg!â€
“Good. You have a fine Codex; it would be a shame to rip you apart. You have your orders, brief my men and ensure these Mech’s are ready!â€
---
Despite the rush on the planet’s surface to counter the Wolves in space the Jade Falcon WarShip Falcon’s Nest appeared to be far less interested in attacking the Wolves. “Sir they are turning again.†One of the Wolves reported slamming his fist down on his console. The Falcon’s Nest could fight the McKenna in a straight up battle with a chance of victory but the Texas was playing a strange fight.
“What are they playing at…we are tickling one another at this range, we try closing, they withdraw, we withdraw they try closing.â€
The ship shook slightly as naval lasers struck the Werewolf burning the WarShip’s armour “minor hit on the starboard nose quarter, the armour absorbed the blow.â€
“Sir I am requesting permission to bring half our fighters on board to refuel and re-arm, my pilots have been out there six hours.†The Werewolf’s aerospace and DropShip fighter controller requested from her console the pilots were not the only thing suffering the fuel levels were low on all of their fighters while ammunition levels on the several fighters were almost completely empty.
“Permission granted, the Falcons are content to dance at range anyhow. What about the forces at the Falcons orbital facilities?â€
In the holo-tank the prize, the huge conglomeration of factories, plants, forges and slips for fighters, DropShips and Mech’s, the ugly but utterly functional Falcon’s Roost Orbital Assembly Plant glowed a brilliant green. Out of range for now and shielded by a wall of fighters and a dozen assault DropShips that must have had orders to hold position no matter the provocations sent against them.
There was a small cheer from the gunnery section Star Admiral Scott Conners glared at them angrily they were far from a true victory. “Sorry Sir! Enemy Noruff destroyed, it was skirting the edge of our engagement range with two stars of Fighters taunting us, the fighters are withdrawing, we showed them†the commander of the gunners reported triumphantly a smile beaming from his lips.
“Very good, well done, keep firing at any target in range†he said at least someone on the ship was happy.
---
Below Conners’ WarShip battle the fight had turned into a slugging match as the planet’s heavens opened and rain began to fall soaking the combatants. The Jade Falcons were throwing everything at the Mountain Wolf positions. “Target right! Damn it...and front! All Tango Units open fire, gut the bastards!†Star Captain Martin Ward cursed firing his Mech’s particle cannon at a Jade Falcon BattleMech. “Die dezgra scum!â€
“STAR CA...â€
Even as they tried to turn one flank of the Jade Falcons an enemy Bane 4 BattleMech smashed trees aside its broad feet sinking into the wet ground, its pilot ignoring the stinging fire from a Mountain Wolf Ice Ferret and focusing on another target, suddenly almost at once the Bane let rip with its massive ultra-class assault autocannons with a roaring burst of sustained fire. The high explosive shells tore into the Highlander IIC catching the Mountain Wolf BattleMech dead to rights even as the Jade Falcon warrior opened fire with its missiles. Even as the assault BattleMech crumbled and fell over like a dropped sack of cement the Jade Falcon Bane exploded under the combined fire of three Mountain Wolf Wolf Mech’s, Zelbringen was not in force, the Falcons viewed the Wolves as at best Mercenaries, and both sides were not holding back.
There were no battle lines, no neat lines of advance or retreat, just a huge confused and utterly undignified brawl that would remind those of who had seen the ROM’s as being as ferocious as the Trial of Annihilation of Clan Widowmaker, in the woody, soaked hilly terrain the two Clans were ripping into each other with a ferocity born of deep boned hated, no quarter asked, and none given.
With their DropShips fairly close the Wolves were quickly cycling Mech’s back to reload and re-arm and with the Skyreach mountains on their right flank the Falcons could come at them from two directions and the Mountain Wolves were on guard. Salvage teams were already hauling crippled Falcon Mech’s and tanks onto the DropShips as the pressure built all around them there was a feeling that the Falcons were finally starting to get organised rather than attacking in a fury.
“saKhan we have dug in and are holding them off but the Falcons are pushing along the entire front of our perimeter. Ironfur and Golden Eye Stars are firing arrows and supporting the DropShips, losses are…acceptable, at the moment.â€
“Thank you Star Captain Andrew Radick, my Command Star will take its place on the line whilst you fall back to rearm.†The saKhan said stepping his Mech into the breach its feet sinking into the soaking mud saKhan Kerensky felt sorry for the ground bound Warg Battle Armoured troopers who had to wade through the mess.
“Aff saKhan.â€
---
Elsewhere behind Jade Falcon lines MechWarrior Roshak bit back a curse even as he pounded the top of his Eyrie’s main sensor display. The Mech was achingly new, it had walked precisely eight hundred and three meters since it had been made and was still in its standard matte grey finish with no camouflage applied. The enhanced Star had set out from the Olivetti factory, only having to halt when the Jade Hawk’s right leg actuator froze up, forcing them to leave the machine behind. Down to three Eyrie’s, two Gyrfalcon’s and a Shrike with the Jade Hawk being towed back to the factory on a huge flatbed recovery vehicle they were now finally approaching the battle zone, all be-it from an unexpected direction.
The Mech shook as its jump jets fired, the splayed wings in the left and right torso adjusting and moving almost organically to improve the airflow and stability of the jump before it thumped down, the thirty-five tonne Mech accelerating smoothly up to full speed. With his EI tattoos the Falcon warrior could almost feel branches rubbing against ‘his’ sides as the Star moved through the woods that marked the start of the Skyreach range, of course it was just sensor feedback but it did feel good. The three Eyrie’s ran in a hunched forwards gait, sleek, aggressive and powerful.
“Claw Star, targets ahead, strike hard but do not over extend yourself, these Mech’s are the future of the Clan, do not waste them or you WILL answer to me.â€
“Aff Star Captain!â€
---
“Targets!†One of the Wolves screamed seeing the incoming contacts from another vector.
“What? There is nothing there but mountains.†The Star Captain said searching the trees through the rain looking for the targets.
“I am getting thermals Sir.â€
“Understood, all Grey Stalker elements, prepare to engage!â€
“Sir…I am not getting anything in the Warbook on the contacts. Seismic indicate a mix of lights and mediums with one assault but that is all.â€
---
The few glimpses by the Wolf Mech’s sensors was all the computers needed, it came up with UNKNOWN for the smaller machines but kept calling the other Mech an Onager, all be it of an unknown configuration the Jade Falcons had been busy.
“Okay, it seems we have some new Falcon toys to deal with. They will be our salvage. Move out!†saKhan Declan Kerensky ordered as the rain continued to beat down on the both sets of combatants.
Two Stars of Wolf Mech’s, all be it with some in a damaged state moved out to engage the six Falcon unknowns and it was a ‘learning experience’ for both sides. The Wolves learned about the firepower of the other machines whilst the Falcon Warriors had to adjust to their machines abilities, outnumbered the Falcons stuck together before launching a counter attack.
“Kevin on your right, small winged bastard!â€
“Aff!†The Adder’s foot stomped down as the Mech turned hard, pulse laser blitzing bright blue bolts at the Falcon machine, cutting a gouge across its stylized chest before it fired its jump jets, the wings on its back shifting eye blink fast.
“They’ve got Partial Wings; they will out jump us in this weather and terrain!â€
As the Falcon Mech landed out of sight there was a yell on the radio. “Stravag! That bastard just kicked me!†One of the Mountain Wolves shouted his Linebacker was in trouble, one of the Jade Falcon Mechs had come out of the woods and rain and engaged the OmniMech. Blazing away with its short ranged weapons the Falcon Mech stomped to a halt before raising its left leg and raking down the side of the Linebacker’s leg. Two meter long talons of dense, hardened metal gouged chunks out of the Linebacker’s leg, the Mech jumping away before the heavier Wolf machine could turn.
“Seems the claws are not just decorative…honourless scum!†The Wolf reported struggling to keep his Mech upright.
“Target down! Target down! Nailed the bastard!â€
Star Captain Marc Vickers Warhawk shook as the big Falcon unknown raked it with a volley of lightweight autocannon fire. His Bravo config machine’s Gauss rifle thundered a shot back, taking the Falcon machine in its right torso, his fire being returned by a pair of ER Large lasers as the Clan Mech jumped backwards trying to disengage.
The Mech clearly had the Falcons laser heat sinks fitted, as it jumped and fired it was shrouded by plumes of jade green light that showed up clearly as the sun set. It was quite striking, but it made the Mech easy to track in this rain even without the aid of his machine’s sensor system. Vickers bit back a curse as his next Gauss shot missed, the Falcon machine having no such issue as it pelted his Mech with more laser fire.
“Sir! The Falcons are pulling back; we got one of their lights and damaged the rest.â€
‘Ahh…so that’s why you’re jumping…’ Vickers thought as he glanced at his unit’s details. The Falcons had targeted wisely, going after his damaged elements, killing a Linebacker, a Mad Dog and Kit Fox. A good exchange for them.
“Let them go, but I want that one we downed towed back to the DropShip if needs be, our Scientists will want to see this.†Vickers ordered looking at the downed Mech. Above the Jade Falcons and Wolves the rain which had been pelting them throughout the battle seemed to instantly dry up Vickers almost laughed.
“Aff Star Captain!â€
---
Even as there was a lul in the battle and the weather below in space the battle continued between the Werewolf and Falcon’s Nest. “Sir we are cycling the CAP, they will be space born in ten minutes.â€
“Understood, keep an eye out for any Falcon adventurism, not that they are being bold.â€
“Sir! I am getting pre-emergence neutrinos!†Another crewmen called out from across the command centre.
“Where?â€
“Above Sudeten Sir, at the planets jump point†the Mountain Wolf reported as the Werewolf’s powerful sensors detected the new ship arriving.
“So that is why they were playing the waiting game…twelve hours of fencing whilst they waited for reinforcements.†Conners cursed angrily wishing he’d taken his McKenna and slaughtered the Falcon’s Nest before now and damned the circumstances.
“Emergence in 3…2…1†the warrior called out as another one-and-a-half million tonne warship burst into reality, her IFF broadcasting loud and clear, Identifying her as the CJF Turkina’s Might.
“Sir! We have an unidentified Warship; it appears to be a Texas class…or based on one at least.†One of the Wolves said looking at the Werewolf’s sensor readouts the ship was a Texas but it wasn’t.
“Get me the saKhan immediately!†Connors ordered on the tactical holo-display the Falcon’s Nest came about, engines flaring brightly as the two Falcon WarShips moved to trap the larger McKenna between them.
“Link established.†On his headset the Werewolf’s commander heard the distinctive sounds of gunfire.
“What is it? I am a bit busy at the moment.†saKhan Declan Kerensky ordered under the sound of further gunfire as his OmniMech was damaged by the Jade Falcons.
“saKhan we have had a new enemy WarShip jump in system, it is another battleship, type unknown. We are significantly outgunned up here.†Conners reported
“Can you hold them?†The saKhan asked his frustration clear through the headset they had never come here to conquer Sudeten but the Wolves were caught up in the fight disengaging now felt wrong.
“Neg, not without endangering this ship and risk losing the entire raiding force, we need to withdraw.†The Star Admiral reported as his WarShip shook heavily from long range capital missile fire from the Jade Falcon vessels.
“Damn…understood. All Mountain Wolf Forces, this is saKhan Declan Kerensky, the situation has changed and we are now going to withdraw. We have bloodied the Falcon’s nose and claimed a fine bounty of captured equipment. Fall back as planned and then lift off. Nothing heroic, our Clan needs warriors, not dead martyrs.†He ordered on the ground around the saKhan several Wolf Mechs opened fire with long range missiles loaded with FASCAM munitions these had been held back for the entire battle until now. The Mountain Wolves proceeded to coat the battlefield in mines even as they fell back.
“Star Admiral, how much time have we got?†He asked as more weapons fire struck his OmniMech.
“Two hours, maybe two and a half before they are both within firing range, their first Texas had withdrawn to effect repairs and is now moving to intercept with its comrade.†Star Admiral Connors reported watching the screens as if the two WarShips would
“We will be there, the Jump drive is charged?â€
“Aff, then we can burn to a pirate point and leave.â€
“Aff, I will make sure that all our forces are aboard before we depart.â€
The Mountain Wolf forces withdrew, star by star, binary by binary back to their landing zones continuing to deploy FASCAM munitions all across the area. The Wolves had deployed so many mines that it would take the Falcons months to clear them all and even then the area would still be a hotbed for accidental deaths caused by remaining FASCAM munitions which lay hidden. The Mountain Wolf’s sudden and well planned withdrawal caught the Jade Falcons by complete surprise allowing more of the Wolves to escape a fact that would result in the death of the Jade Falcon Galaxy Commander in the weeks that followed.
Despite their preparation, the Wolves did not get away freely, leaving the better part of two Trinaries behind on the surface of Sudeten, whilst also suffering heavy losses among their Elemental’s and Warg equipped units which had gotten bogged down in the retreat and overrun by the Jade Falcons. True to his word Declan Kerensky was the last to board his DropShip in his heavily damaged Dire Wolf. Another vicious aerospace battle saw the Titan class carrier Hercules’ Strength destroyed in a ramming attack whilst the Isegrim Howler was disabled and later captured by Falcon Elementals.
Dogged by Jade Falcon forces the Mountain Wolf DropShips retreated from the planet whilst the two Falcon battleships maintained their pursuit of the Werewolf. Finally the Wolves reached their pirate point and were able to jump clear of the system escaping the Jade Falcon trap.
In material terms the costs were about even. For the loss of two Trinaries as well as moderate damage to the Werewolf as well as the loss of two DropShips with a third having to be decommissioned due to heavy damage the Mountain Wolf forces destroyed about a Cluster’s worth of Falcon forces, destroyed four DropShips and one orbital factory as well as claiming a few Stars worth of salvage. The damage to the Falcon’s Nest was not so extensive requiring a month’s repairs. The Falcons also claimed that they revealed their newest battleship the Turkina’s Might in a pleasing fashion, her guns firing in anger for the first time against a live target. More important was that production at Sudeten was not overly affected by the raid, even if they did spend considerable resources digging additional defences round vital facilities.
-
To the Periphery to end 3103 - answering 3 questions... What Erik Martens-Calderon thought of the worlds leaving, where the Subtlety came from, and what has happened to the Nova Cats.
Government Meeting
Samantha, Taurus
Taurian Concordat, Periphery
2nd December 3103
“I hold in my hand a letter from the new Public Leader of Sananda†Governor Chiara Ruggeri said standing in front of the Taurian Government she was one of the youngest governors in the room at forty-two years, six years junior to the current Protector, she had long dyed blonde hair which made her look quite a bit younger than she actually was a career politician she’d never seen war outside this room. “In this letter the Leader, a Rolf McQuarry, requested that Captain Sarah Potenza remove her lance of BattleMechs and their supporting vehicle company from the planet.†The Governor said “Rolf McQuarry was an infantry company commander in the Taurus’ Revenge Regiment and in this letter†she said waving it above her “he stated that our forces were no longer needed or welcome on the planet but that he did not wish harm to come to our people.†She said looking around the room “Captain Potenza withdrew her forces from the system and is moving them to join the rest of the Taurus’ Revenge Regiment on the Federated Suns front.†She said turning towards Protector Erik Martens-Calderon “what will you do about this world and the other that have joined the New Colony Region?†She asked looking at the Protector he noted her use of the original name for the Fronc Reaches.
“For now nothing†Erik Martens-Calderon said staring at Chiara Ruggeri who looked angry at his answer. “In total the six systems have left the Taurian Concordat. SIX†he said emphasizing the point “they are nothing compared to the greater Concordat, they do not wish to be part of our nation and now they represent less mouths for us to feed.†He said bluntly shocking many of the parliaments “we have lost no mining facilities we cannot replace and out of all of those worlds a single ammunition factory…â€
“What of the troops that have defected?†Chiara asked interrupting him “before his popular rising Rolf McQurry was an infantry officer.â€
“In total we have lost three battalions of infantry and a small assortment of Mechs and vehicles which were in too bad a condition to be removed by our troops on short notice.†Erik said raising a small pad of paper from his side “we have captured three times as much material as we have lost I combat against the Federated Suns and our trade deal with the Capellans has netted us even more.†The Protector stressed the Concordat was on the rise they needed to see that “Taurus Territorial Industries of Sterope continue to provide our nation with the effective Hyades-class JumpShip. Our military is one of the most mobile in the entire Periphery.†Erik said seeing that while they were happy with what he had said few of them were convinced “four years ago Taurus Territorial Industries was able to construct its first Compact K-F Core.†He announced seeing finally some interest few understood the science behind Interstellar travel but they knew that WarShips were built around a Compact K-F Core. “Since then those same engineers have worked on reverse engineering the drives from the Jason Hasek†ladies and gentlemen “I am very proud to announce that as of today our military are the proud owners of the first Hyades-class Corvette†he said behind him a screen activated showing the vessel slowly move clear of the Sterope shipyard. “I have directed this vessel to be named the TCS Jeffery Calderon after my father.†He said proudly almost immediately there was applause from around the room but Erik noticed that Chiara Ruggeri was not completely convinced. “We will bring those worlds back into the Concordat in time and in the same way that they left through peace†Erik said “for now our nation stands as one at war, a War that we are winning.â€
“Until the Federated Suns decides that we are more than an annoyance.†Chiara Ruggeri warned before retaking her seat. Erik Martens-Calderon watched her for several moments as the Speaker of the House began their next topic of discussion for a moment Erik and Chiara’s eyes met the Protector simply nodded his respect to her which the Governor returned.
Diplomatic Meeting, Subtelty (McKenna MOD-class Battleship)
Wildwood, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
20th December 3103
When word had reached Canopus of a non-hostile McKenna-class Battleship which had arrived in the Wildwood system the Magestix had send Ambassador Winson Hodges and the MCS Katara, a Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvette, to discover what their intentions were. Fortunately the rumours of the McKenna being passive were accurate and when the Katara had arrived the Ambassador had been invited on board.
Docking on board the Subtlety Ambassador Winson Hodges pulled himself through the micro-gravity into the airlock of the McKenna-class Battleship and was surprised to see Commander America Park, the commander of the nearby defence station, on board the vessel. “Welcome on board the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts†she said greeting him “Captain Leroy-Detrich is awaiting you.â€
“Lead on Commander†he said the Magistracy Armed Forces officer turned as did the member of the Subtlety who was escorting them. As they moved through the corridors in the micro-gravity Ambassador Winson Hodges was surprised at the state of the McKenna. Despite the Subtlety's external appearance the internal arrangement of the Subtlety was in very good condition however there were some areas which showed things were not normal on board the vessel. As they moved along the corridors Hodges noted a room marked weapons control the door was broken, or missing, and the room completely empty with the consoles dark. Hodges was not an expert on naval vessels but he would have thought there would be at least one person manning the weapons array.
Commander Park and their Subtlety guide led the small group to one of the McKenna’s large gravity decks a fact that Hodges was particularly happy about. On the gravity deck they were led to one of the large conference rooms. Inside there was a man and a woman the man was at least fifty years old, but looked ten years younger, his dark hair beginning to grey slightly but his body showed few of the traits that came along with being exposed to long stays in a gravity well Hodges guessed that the man had spent extended periods in space or low gravity. The woman was more difficult to read like the male she looked younger but her eyes spoke of a much older person her dyed white hair further threw of estimates of her age.
“Captain Leroy-Dietrich this is Ambassador Winson Hodges representing the Magistracy of Canopus†Commander America Park said turning back to the Ambassador “Ambassador Hodges this is Captain William Leroy-Dietrich, the commander of this vessel, and Director Cynthia Higgins, head of training for the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts.†She said introducing them bowing slightly she began to move to leave.
“A pleasure to meet you…†Hodges began
“Ambassador†Captain Leroy-Dietrich said interrupting “I would prefer that Commander Park remain.†He said stopping America’s walk towards the exit “her people were the first we encountered in the Magistracy and they have been quite hospitable.â€
“Of course†Hodges said glancing over at America Park “take a seat commander.†He said his tone indicated to her that he wanted her to sit and to remain quiet. In a matriarchal society, dominated by women, it spoke leaps and bounds at Hodges skill that he had raised to a position of power. “Captain Leroy-Dietrich†he said turning back to the Subtlety duo “first please allow me to second Commander Park’s efforts to welcome you to the Magistracy of Canopus.†He said neither spoke “secondly please accept our Magestix’s apologies she recently gave birth to her second child the Duchess Anna Centrella and has been unable to travel.†He explained
“I thank you for your welcome Ambassador.†Leroy-Dietrich said “we did not expect a welcome from your Magestix…â€
“But please pass on our congratulations a new birth is a wonderful thing†Cynthia Higgins said interrupting the Captain glanced at her for a moment Hodges guessed with a frustrated look before meeting the Captain’s eyes once more.
“Ambassador please allow us to begin with honesty and by making one thing absolutely clear the Subtlety, her DropShips and her Aerospace Fighters will not be aligning themselves with your Magistracy.†Leroy-Dietrich said immediately Commander America Park glanced down at the desk then back at the Ambassador.
“I will be equally honest with you Captain my Magestix has authorized me to make you and your crew very, very wealthy should you accept her offer.†Hodges said there was no point hiding the fact that the Magistracy wanted the McKenna added to their fleet even with their fourth WarShip almost complete at the Trznadal Cluster Shipyards none of their vessels had the prowess or presence of the Battleship.
“Although we appreciate that fact†Cynthia Higgins said “and that you have not attempted to attack this vessel you must understand that the Subtlety is not a war vessel. She is not fitted out like a normal McKenna-class vessel she is, and always was, designed to be a training vessel. Captain Leroy-Dietrich and his crew are dedicated to enhancing the naval skills of anyone willing to pay the College’s minimal charges.â€
“But that was not always the case†Hodges said glancing at the captain as he removed a notebook from his pocket “in 3084 there was a Lieutenant William Leroy-Dietrich who was a member of the Fifteenth Exploration Squadron, a mercenary aerospace fighter unit, which according to the MRBC Records available on Canopus was last hired by the Interstellar Expeditions for a deep space mission beyond Magistracy space.†He said Commander Park’s obvious surprise showed she knew nothing of the Ambassador’s findings.
“Is there a question there?†Leroy-Dietrich asked not denying Hodges calm.
“What happened to your unit? Where did you find this ship? And what are your intentions?†Hodges asked
“What happened to my unit is a long story†Leroy-Dietrich said “you are correct I am the pilot of the records. We were assigned to six JumpShips deployed by Interstellar Expeditions specifically to resupply Interstellar Expeditions base Twenty-Two and to find Rim Worlds Outpost Eleven.â€
“It was found years ago†America Park said the outpost one of dozens the Rim Worlds Republic created before the Star League Civil War it had been found in 3067 by Interstellar Expeditions completely abandoned.
“Wrong†Director Cynthia Higgins admitted “the expedition that claimed to find Outpost Eleven were forced to make that claim by…†she hesitated for a moment looking at Leroy-Dietrich who nodded “by my people, the people of Outpost Eleven.â€
“You are a descendant of the Rim Worlds Republic?†Ambassador Hodges asked startled there were units that claimed a linage to the Rim Worlds Republic but there were no colonies that still made that claim the Rim Worlds Republic was a dead nation.
“The people of Outpost Eleven were their own people. We always believed there was something wrong with the report on the base. The team that discovered it were apparently lost on their way back to the Inner Sphere.†Leroy-Dietrich said speaking again “each of our JumpShips were equipped with an HPG communications system so we spread out. After three years we found the system claimed by Outpost Eleven and to our surprise the third world had signs of life.†He said the wonderment was clear on his face “we sent word to the other JumpShips and headed towards the planet.†He explained “on our way to the planet our JumpShip was attacked and forced to retreat from the system by unknown raiders.â€
“Periphery scum that had prayed on our world for decades†Higgins said “they pushed out world to its breaking point destroying much of the defences we still had active.â€
“We knew nothing of this†Leroy-Dietrich said “all we knew was there was a hostile force behind us and that we needed to get to the planet.†He said continuing with the tale “we pushed onto the third planet which was one of the most exotic I have ever seen. The remains of nearly a dozen moons remained in orbit around the world creating a debris field that completely engulfed the planet’s orbit.†He said “we pushed through it towards the planet and that is when we discovered the Subtlety.†He said
“The Subtlety was built by the Star League Defence Force as a next generation training vessel†Higgins explained “somehow the ship escaped the chaos of the Star League Civil War and made its way out of the Inner Sphere its crew never looking back. Unfortunately when they arrived at Outpost Eleven they were almost out of fuel and food and when they landed… the people of our world were not particularly pleasant to them†she explained looking at the table in shame.
“We had other plans for the ship docking three of our four DropShips with the ship we transferred as much fuel as we could and brought her reactors online.†He explained proud of the fact. “On that day I became Captain of the Subtlety we were on a steep learning curve in three days we learned how to use the weapons on board the ship and waited for the pirates. When they arrived near the debris field we let them have it with everything this ship had wiping out the pirates but also causing more damage to the Subtlety.â€
“Then came their encounter with my people†Cynthia Higgins said “our population had steadily shrunk for nearly a decade and could barely support ourselves. Captain Leroy-Dietrich agreed to evacuate our remaining people once their JumpShips arrived.â€
“But that means you should have returned to the Inner Sphere decades ago?†Hodges asked he was no expert on space travel but new that JumpShips wouldn’t take that long to return.
“You are correct†Leroy-Dietrich admitted “but the Subtlety was not ready for extended travel so we chose to remain at Outpost Eleven while we made repairs and modifications to the WarShip we dispatched one of our JumpShips back to Interstellar Expeditions base for additional supplies and equipment. It took us nearly fourteen years but it was worth it.†Leroy-Dietrich said smiling
“Between the Interstellar Expeditions forces, the mercenary commands hired to protect them and my people we chose to form a new organisation. The Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts†she said proudly “our college primarily caters to the naval arts but also engineering, navigation and other forms of education. We decided that everyone that we had with us would be trained to have the best opportunities for their future if they decided to stay with the Subtlety and our JumpShips fine but if they wanted to go beyond they would be able to last in the universe with the education we gave them. Since returning to the Inner Sphere we have expanded that to those beyond our collection of ships.â€
“Which leads us to our goal†Leroy-Dietrich said “we plan to travel to Outreach and Galatea and register with the MRBC as a travelling school. We will bring education and skills to anyone who is willing to listen to us; we will share what we know of aerospace combat and trade our knowledge for passage through the Inner Sphere. For any supplies we will trade equipment or pay in good old C-Bills.â€
“As you can see WarShips have reached even the depths of the periphery†America Park said referring to the Katara which held position off the Subtlety’s bow.
“Yes an impressive feat†Leroy-Dietrich admitted “but does you crew know how to combat a McKenna?†He asked both Park and Hodges looked surprised for a moment but before they could speak the Subtlety's commander spoke again. “I do not mean this as a threat simply would your crew have any idea what to do when encountering a vessel like the McKenna? Or a Texas, a Monsoon, an Atreus, a Farragut?†He asked expanding it to other WarShips of SLDF era. “The systems on board the Subtlety are very advanced we can mimic the damage capabilities of any Star League-era WarShip.†He boasted seeing both of them were impressed.
“We have shipyard facilities; we could assist and repair some of the damage that has been done to your vessel?†Hodges suggested even if they couldn’t convince them to stay they could get a look inside the WarShip.
“Not necessary†Leroy-Dietrich said “while we have sustained some damage to the hull and some systems they are not critical to this vessel’s operation.†He said seeing Hodges disappointment “understand Mr Ambassador while we mean no hostile intent towards your Magistracy the Subtlety is capable of defending itself and its JumpShips.â€
“In that case I do not see the Magestix objecting to your travel through our nation. We will arrange for our forces to be in place for your training exercises. I will also arrange for a liaison officer to join your vessel to ensure there is no miss-communications or accidents during your travel through our territory.â€
“Mr Ambassador I, we,†he said correcting himself glancing at Cynthia Higgins who nodded “would prefer Commander Park remained on board as Ambassador to the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts.â€
“Is that correct?†Ambassador Hodges said looking at Commander America Park who looked as surprised as the Ambassador by the request. “Well the Commander has responsibilities here at Wildwood†he said for a moment “but I believe I can convince the Magistracy Armed Forces Command to waver these duties for the duration of this assignment.†He said deciding that keeping the McKenna and its crew on side was a better course of action than aggravating its Captain.
“Thank you Mr Ambassador†Captain William Leroy-Dietrich said stepping closer extending his hand.
“Welcome to the Magistracy of Canopus may your journey be long and safe†Ambassador Winson Hodges said rising from his chair meeting the Captain’s hand shaking it formally. The Subtlety's journey had just begun.
Nova Cat Command, Khan’s Office
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
26th December 3103
The doors to the Khan’s office opened without a single word from the Elemental Guards standing outside Galaxy Commander Katrine Devalis hadn’t expected them to say anything there was no need. Before entering she straightened her leather uniform jacket and tightened the pony tail that held her long scarlet coloured hair. As the commander of Upsilon Galaxy she did not need to wait to be announced before entering instead once ready she marched in to find Khan Canin Rosse standing near his desk at a relaxed stance apparently waiting for her. The Khan had originated in the Clan Nova Cat Watch she knew he still had very strong links to the organisation no doubt had his spies monitoring her every move since she handed on the Nova Cat Capitol. “Khan Rosse, I report as I was requested to.†She said as she approached stopping just short of his desk. The Khan was almost thirty years older than she was and approaching the sixty-fifth anniversary of his birth but he looked like he was fifteen-to-twenty years younger, his fitness level and mental readiness unquestionable by anyone in the Clan. It was obvious to Katrine that the most recent crisis had aged the Khan but despite the millions dead from the virus on New Barcella, including the Khan’s freeborn wife Yvonne, the Khan was a formidable opponent.
“And a timely arrival Galaxy Commander†the Khan said looking at her his deep blue eyes piercing through her in them she could see the desire that had driven the man all these years was still there. “It is good to be home once more.†He said after a moment of silence for more than a year New Barcella had been under a strict quarantine the virus outbreak. Unable to cure the virus alone the Nova Cats had been forced to turn to the other Clans for assistance with a breakthrough being made only a couple of months before on Tukayyid. Since spreading the cure through the population the quarantine had been lifted but the Nova Cats were still being careful to clean everything that had been affected by the virus.
“Aff it is, our losses have been surprisingly light†she commented. She like many others had feared the Galaxy based on New Barcella would be completely gutted by the virus.
“Light†Canin Rosse said looking at her surprised “nineteen million dead…†He said allowing the number to hang in the air for several moments it was almost unfathomable.
“Ninety percent of those were Freebirths†Katrina Devalis replied “they populate like rabbits if we were Jade Falcon we’d have seen the virus as a blessing.â€
“Aff but we are not Falcons we are Nova Cats†the Khan reminded her “you harm part of the whole you hurt our whole Clan and remember not all our losses were freeborns ten percent of the losses were trueborns.â€
“But only a handful of active warriors†she argued the only trueborns who had been affected badly were those who had been badly injured in the past or that were too old be of use. Only a very small number of warriors in New Barcella’s garrison had actually been harmed, four trueborns and twenty-two freeborns, unfortunately their technical staff had been gutted meaning the units would be useless in a campaign for a short period.
With the virus contained on New Barcella the rest of the Nova Cat’s Den and their Khan safely off the planet the Nova Cat’s had continued to function normally finally absorbing the majority of the Filtvelt Coalition, trading with the Ravens and even re-establishing some links to the Sea Foxes. During the entire crisis Khan Canin Rosse had stayed apprised of the what was happening on their capitol planet but even after the death of Yvonne there had been no course to challenge his leadership; much to Katrine’s disappointment.
“Aff†the Khan agreed again Katrina Devalis was getting worried they had never seen eye-to-eye. She believed their Clan should never have come to the periphery instead it should have remained with their other Clans as an invasion force and absorbed the Smoke Jaguars Occupation Zone when the time was right. Khan Canin Rosse had always been one of the strongest supporters of the Nova Cat’s new path a position that had been vindicated when the Jaguars and Adders had been ejected from the Inner Sphere. “There was one particular trueborn loss which has been damaging to our Clan, saKhan Ajax Drummond.†He said Katrina Devalis was surprised Ajax Drummond had not been on New Barcella when the virus broke out, neither of the Khans had.
“How did he die?†Katrina asked she didn’t care for Ajax Drummond he was a wet towel to the Khan’s fire she felt he’d dampened any fighting spirit the Nova Cat leader had for many years and had been surprised when Canin Rosse had pushed for the conquest of the Filtvelt Coalition.
“An explosion on board his DropShip while returning from Tukayyid with the cure for the New Barcella virus.â€
“They arrived back TWO months ago!†Katrina said angrily taking a step forward “YOU have hidden that fact from our Clan!†She said accusingly.
“Aff I did our Clan did not need to hear of our saKhan’s death after learning of the losses on New Barcella.†The Khan replied turning her anger back on her while remaining completely calm. “I acted in what I thought was the best interest for our Clan; an action I would repeat if I thought it was necessary. A Khan must be willing to sacrifice their own honour for the good of their Clan it’s something you must learn Katrine Devalis.â€
“Me…†she said suddenly stunned she hated the Khan, she was sure he hated her, why would he choose her? She had been the symbol for all opposition for Canin Rosse, and his stavag family, and had inherited command of Upsilon Galaxy when Grayson Rosse, Canin’s freeborn son, was killed in action and had been a thorn in the Khan’s side.
“Yes you†Canin said “tough choices need to be made.†He said “you and I have not always seen eye-to-eye but it is time we set those differences aside and concentrated on helping the Nova Cats.†He said explaining his decision.
“I agree†she said after a moment considering his words.
“Good†Canin Rosse said smiling “then your first job is to fix New Barcella return it to the status of our capital. This includes replacing our ‘light losses’†he said quoting her our words “bring techs to bring New Barcella’s Clusters back to combat readiness, bring workers in to run the idle factories on New Barcella which have fallen into disuse because their freeborn workers are dead. Repopulate our streets.†He said laying down why he didn’t see nineteen million losses as a light loss.
“Our trueborn crèches were not affected at all we will replace those lost freeborns with failed warriors in time.†She began before the Khan spoke again.
“Aye in time†Canin Rosse said trying not to roll his eyes “so in sixteen years when this year’s crèches graduate we will be able to reopen our factories, will add tech support to our Clusters and make our streets feel alive instead of like a cemetery. Our Clan needs support now!†He snapped
“We have factories on other worlds working at, or over, their capacities and we have stockpiles of munitions in warehouses here unused when they were stuck by the quarantine.†Katrine Devalis said combing back at her Khan. We can make do with what we have until we are able to bring in skilled workers. I will bring in techs from other units to support those on New Barcella†she said confident she could make it work.
“I don’t want to make do.†Canin said dropping into the use of a contraction bringing a scowl from Katrina. “I want New Barcella to thrive once more I want this world to feel like it is alive; like it was before. You are now our saKhan, in the absence of a planetary administrator; it is your job to get it done.†He commanded his voice raising Katrina had heard the Khan use this tone a hundred times in the Clan Council chambers not losing his temper or shouting just adding an authority to his voice that few could match. It was simple he wanted it done and if she failed he would replace her by any means the Nova Cat Khan, for now, was Clan Nova Cat.
“Yes my Khan†she said crossing her fist across her chest in salute before turning and briskly marching out her scarlet ponytail bouncing as she marched out of the office. As saKhan she’d have to deal with someone she hated on nearly a daily basis, unless they were in the field, but it would give her an opportunity if Canin Rosse screwed up badly enough she would be in the position to become the Nova Cat’s next Khan a position she desired deeply.
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Into 3104 -
3104
Planetary assault
Idlewind, Alberio Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
14th January 3104
As autocannon fire raked his Dragon Tai-sa Dante Masamune swore the Rasalhague Dominion Ursus the only way that pilot should have hit him at that range was if the pilot was the next Kai Allard-Liao. His Mech’s warbook tagged the Mech as a Ursus PR he had no idea what that meant as he lined up on the Mech with his particle cannon smiling when the lighning bolt struck the target’s upper shoulder. Suddenly from nowhere a Ghost Bear Mech tagged as a Beowulf IIC-PR ran past his Mech burning the Dragon with several lasers which was almost instantly followed by more autocannon from the Ursus. Even as the autocannons blew armour off the right shoulder of the Dragon it was like realization of what was going on hit the Tai-sa. “KILL THE BEOWULF!†He snapped watching the forty-five ton Mech run away passing another Combine Mech almost on cue autocannon fire, from the Ursus, raked the other Combine Mech it was like the two Rasalhague Mechs were connected in a C3 network.
Across the Combine battle line Mechs turned on the Beowulf Tai-sa Dante Masamune targeted its partner the Ursus intent on killing at least one of the Mechs. His particle cannon dug into the other Mech but at this distance the shots were not easy marching his Mech forward he pulled the Mech’s other trigger launching a flight of long range missiles at the Bear Mech. As the smoke cleared from the missile Dante had no time to react as a sixty-five ton Karhu charged through the smoke straight at the Dragon. Lasers and particle cannons tore into the Dragon before the Karhu punched out with its left arm the claw-like fore arm tearing through the Dragon’s armour shredding the structure underneath. Tai-sa Dante Masamune triggered both his Mech’s medium lasers striking the Karhu at close range burning the Dominion OmniMech but he knew he was in trouble the Karhu was a brawler the Bears had sucked him in with the Ursus and Beowulf setting him up for the close range Karhu. “I’m in trouble!†He called out but there was no reply glancing at his sensors Dante knew why the Karhu’s charge had not been a solitary one across the line several of the Rasalhague Dominion’s close range fighters had charged forward into the DCMS line causing total chaos.
With the Karhu still close to him Dante turned his Dragon firing the long range missiles blindly trying to catch the fast moving heavy OmniMech his sensors told him that none of the missiles had struck home. Instead the Tai-sa braced himself for the next strike which came in the form of several autocannon strikes against his Mech’s back, the Ursus hadn’t gone away either, the autocannon fire stripped the rear armour from his Dragon exposing the Mech’s structure. Dante turned again firing the particle cannon and long range missiles at the Ursus it was a snap shot and both shots went wide his turn against the Urus had exposed his rear armour to the returning Beowulf IIC-PR which opened up with laser fire directly into the Dragon’s back. Directly exposed to laser fire the engine shielding of the Dragon failed flooding the cockpit with heat a second salvo of laser fire gutted the Mech’s gyroscope. Suddenly without the gyro to translate Dante Masamune’s sense of balance the Dragon began to fall not waiting to fall with the dead Mech and be at the mercy of the surrounding Rasalhague Mechs Dante Masamune triggered the eject system. The Dragon’s head split open and the control chair carried its pilot away from the falling Mechs into the air.
With their commander gone the DCMS defenders attempted to reform their lines a kilometres several kilometres behind their current line but the the Bears would not be denied surging forwards the Bears repeated their tactics drawing out a couple fo Combine defenders and then flooding the enemies lines with close range fighters. It was not conventional Clan tactics but it was very effective with the Draconis Combine defenders not ready for the coordination of the Clan forces there was no question that the Rasalhague Dominion would be victorious.
Three days later another Rasalhague Dominion strike force landed on Nykvarm and followed the same tactics pushing forward with teams of Ursus and Beowulf BattleMechs unnerving the DCMS defenders creating holes in their defensive lines before close range fighters were brought in to crush their opposition accumulating in the conquest of the planet by the end of January.
Deep Space, FSS Hanse Davion II (First Prince II-class Battleship)
Unnamed System, Periphery
20th January 3104
The FSS Hanse Davion II flashed into existence and quickly scanned the system. “Sir, the Nova Cat Battle-cruiser is where we expected. A second WarShip, a Drake-class Corvette, is at the Nadir point.†One of the officers said looking back at Admiral Michael Thomas who nodded an understanding the Corvette was the Nova Cats insurance. Should the Federated Suns double-cross them the Corvette could bring news back to the Nova Cats of the betrayal and the death of their Khan. The First Prince had ordered something similar in deep space the DMI’s Clarkston, a Bug Eye-class Surveillance craft, was monitoring the situation. Should anything go wrong the ship would trickle-charge its tiny K-F Drive and jump back to the Federated Suns. “Communications from the Nova Cat’s they are requestion to send of a single DropShip carrying their representative.†He said continuing the Admiral glanced over his shoulder at First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion who nodded.
“Launch the CAP and inform the Nova Cats that they may approach when ready and that our CAP will escort them in. No other Nova Cat units are to approach the Hanse.†He ordered
“Thank you Admiral Thomas, have your security detail escort the Nova Cat Khan to meeting room six please†Victor said turning to leave the command centre. The Nova Cats had called for this meeting, their first with the Federated Suns since the two severed diplomatic relations, it was time to find out what they wanted.
It took nearly three hours for the Nova Cat’s Noruff-class DropShip to cover the distance between the two WarShips, to dock and for its passenger to make his way to the meeting room. Khan Canin Rosse entered the briefing room with a single Elemental guard, once it was clear there was no problems in the briefing room the Elemental retreated outside leaving the First Prince and Khan alone.
“It has been many years. Welcome on board the Hanse Davion II†Victor said greeting the Nova Cat Khan indicating to the chair opposite him. Canin Rosse covered the distance in three strides sitting down at nearly the same time as the First Prince facing him although they had faced much over the years both men were relatively healthy and active modern medicine helped hide the age they both felt.
“Thank you for agreeing to meet with me†Canin Rosse said calmly, almost somberly, instantly Victor knew there was something wrong he had hoped that his younger sister Yvonne would be here with the Nova Cat Khan but now he felt the worse.
“How did she pass?†Victor asked instinctively reading Canin’s body language.
“Peacefully, in her sleep, I am told.†The Khan said calmly Victor felt anything but calm Yvonne was his last living sibling he was upset, he felt angry that Yvonne had passed, and by the sound of it, alone.
“You are told?†Victor probed trying to keep his anger in check but failing Canin Rosse glanced up at the First Prince their eyes meeting. Victor saw a wall of sorrow reflected in the Khan’s eyes he missed Yvonne deeply, the First Prince chastised himself for a moment as he remembered, Canin Rosse was not the stereotypical Clanner. “What happened?â€
“For over a year there was a virus that ran rampant through New Barcella†Canin explained “nineteen million of our Clan died including Yvonne.†The number staggered Victor Steiner-Davion it would be as if someone had blotted out an entire city in an instant with no survivors he did not know the population numbers of the Nova Cats but even so it must have hurt the Clan. Inside Victor began running numbers the Clan had been quiet for some time other than their attacks on Filtvelt. Their attacks on the Federated Suns and their sudden withdrawal from diplomacy began to make sense the Clan had been reacting to its own internal troubles.
“How was this virus released? New Barcella is exclusively held by your Clan correct?†Victor asked despite the Federated Suns best efforts they had failed to penetrate the Nova Cats secrecy and defence around their Capitol system.
“Aff†Canin replied “we do not know where the virus came from only that it was not manufactured by us. One day it was not there and the next it was.†He explained he omitted that it had taken the resources of multiple Clans to find the cure for the virus before continuing. “We have eradicated the virus now and are rebuilding but there are some losses that cannot be replaced†he said reaching into his jacket pulling out a small black vile. “I do not know your customs but I thought that you should have this†he said placing it on the table Victor did not need the Khan’s explanation to know that it was Yvonne’s ashes. “I have said goodbye to Yvonne I thought that it was only right that you too had the chance.†He said rising from his chair Victor slowly rose too.
“We could discuss so much more†Victor invited putting aside his grief for a moment. “She would have wanted us to leave on good terms†he suggested bringing an instant look of doubt from the Khan.
“It is not the right time†Canin said bowing formally towards the First Prince before turning to leave the room. Victor sunk back into the chair staring at the vile of ash as he wept in grief, aides entered to check on the First Prince, but the Nova Cat Khan had returned to his DropShip and left the Hanse Davion II before Victor rose from the chair again. Once the Nova Cats had returned to their WarShip the Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser quickly jumped clear of the sytem with the Federated Suns Battleship leaving soon after heading back towards home.
Several weeks later back in the Federated Suns First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion scattered Yvonne’s ashes over the Davion family plot on New Avalon returning his sister to the company of her family. There with his wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion, their son Prince Burton Davion, his wife Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion and their family. Fredrick and Jaylen Davion had been unable to attend due to duties to the state but Duchess Sarah Davion, her husband and their son Brian were also in attendance at the closed ceremony Victor had already directed the stone carvers to add the name his sister had lived by to the head stones around the plot “Yvonne Rosse†instead of her birth name “Steiner-Davion.â€
Dinner, Calderon Residence
Samantha, Taurus
Taurian Concordat, Periphery
28th January 3104
Governor Chiara Ruggeri stood in the front room of the Calderon Family home residence feeling slightly apprehensive. Protector Erik Martens-Calderon had called on her officially to discuss the political situation in the Concordat but things didn’t seem right the Calderon Family Home had always been a closed palace with only the Calderon family and their most trusted advisors. Chiara was not a trusted advisor of the family and that made her uncomfortable “who are you?†A young female sounding voice asked Chiara glanced around suddenly sighting a small girl dressed in a child’s green dress her distinctive solid black hair and piercing green eyes.
“I am a friend of the Protector†she said
“How can you be a friend of my dad if I don’t know you†she asked moving behind a pillar keeping her eyes on Chiara. Chiara realized that the child was Nicoletta Calderon the Protector’s daughter.
“I know your dad from work†Chiara said “I haven’t been here before.â€
“He only takes people here that he really likes†Nicoletta said ducking behind a chair “and he’s never taken a girl here before.†She said moving further around the room Chiara remained standing where she was but tried to keep an eye on the nine year old.
“We’re going to discuss some work†Chiara said as one of Nicoletta’s minders entered and beckoned the young girl over.
“No you’re not†the young child said as she made a show of not wanting to leave while making her way towards the exit “you’re having dinner my daddy is cooking it for you.†She said as the minder pulled her away down the corridor.
“It was notice to meet you†Chiara said watching the child leave. Nicoletta turned away from the minder and waved back towards her before being escorted into another area of the residence. Suddenly Chiara felt very under dressed, she’d expected a meeting not dinner, if she had thought this was something else she might have… she stopped herself mid thought no she wouldn’t she’d have made a show that she couldn’t be treated like a prize and not turned up just to spite the Protector.
Another aide entered from the side room “Governor, the Protector is ready for you†he said formally turning around on the spot leading her into a well set dining room. Erik Martens-Calderon was nowhere to be seen and the aide made no indication on where the Protector was before leaving. After twenty minutes Chiara was becoming frustrated with the Protector as neither he nor the guards had appeared. A Governor of the Taurian Concordat Chiara decided enough was enough standing up she stepped through the door and into the kitchen area inside she found Protector Erik Martens-Calderon attempting to cook them food.
“Protector?†She asked stepping into the kitchen
“I miss timed it sorry†he said checking on the food once again “it should only take a minute or so.†He promised “I hope you like New Vandenburg Buffalo steak?â€
“It’s been a while†she admitted New Vandeburg Buffalo steak was expensive to import.
“The Governor sent us a container full as thanks for liberating their home from the Federated Suns I’ve given to the regiments on Samantha and still have enough for months.†He admitted
“Sir, I thought we were going to talk about work…†she began as he took the food out of the oven and moved a large piece onto each plate.
“We can talk about work†Erik said smiling as he placed two large spoonfuls of potatoes on each plate “veg or beans?†He asked reaching for another spoon. “So you wanted to bring your concerns to me?â€
“Veg†she said “yes, sire despite our most recent successes on Robstart and Deifenbaker we can’t hope to hold off against the Federated Suns indefinitely.†She began as he poured the veg onto the plate moments later he did the same on his plate followed by a helping of beans over the top he saw her reaction.
“Want some?†He asked she nodded so he poured beans over her plate as well before picking up both plates following her back into the dining room. He placed the plate in front of her before taking his own seat. “Fortunately for you it appears the Federated Suns believe the same as you†he said as she scooped up some food “today the Federated Suns proposed peace between them and us, with no repercussions we hold onto our gains while they hold theirs.â€
“Their gains?†Chiara asked
“Yesterday morning AFFS forces landed on Amber Grove, Mithron and Brockway with a message if we continue our war against them they would bring war to the heart of the Concordat.†He said she knew that he meant the Hyades Cluster and Samantha by that it was what the Calderon’s cared about most. “I agreed in principle with a cease fire which I will ask the council to match tomorrow.â€
“What about the Capellans?†She asked as he ate some food the Protector looked up some mashed potato stuck to his lower lip. She indicated to his lip and he brushed it to the side.
“I think the Capellan Confederation has more to worry about than us attacking them†Erik said “in the last week the Federated Suns captured Tsitsang, Wei and Shipka while the Free Worlds League threaten eight different systems.†He explained
“All they can hope for is the FedRats and FWL start fighting each other otherwise we could be about to see the twilight of the Capellan Confederation.†Chiara suggested in the last few months the Capellans had lost the majority of their Liao Commonality, including its capital.
“Unlikely the Succession States rarely push each other far enough for destruction the Federated Suns and Free Worlds League will push until the Capellans are crippled and then it will pull back.†Erik suggested remembering Baron Cham Kithrong’s teachings “the Capellans have re-secured Victoria and have driven the Federated Suns from Sirdar. I suspect we will see small conflicts for the immediate future.â€
“You know this is quite good†Chiara said eating some more of Erik’s food
“I don’t get to cook as often as I would like†he admitted “although tonight I didn’t do as well as I had hoped.â€
“Well then you’ll just have to do better next time?†She suggested Erik inclined his head towards Chiara for a moment washing down some of the steak with a glass of wine he raised it slightly towards her as they continued to eat and drink into the night.
Border Raids
Draconis March, Federated Suns
31st January 3104
With the Federated Suns focus on the Taurian Concordat and the Capellan Confederation elements of the DCMS raid half a dozen worlds of the Draconis March. None of these attacks are intended on claiming territory or destroying Federated Suns units instead the DCMS are testing the AFFS defences and searching for weaknesses.
-
Exploration Mission, Talisman (Buccaneer-class DropShip)
Horikawa, Independent System
Periphery
5th February 3104
The Fronc Reaches employed exploration DropShip Talisman flew through a system that from what they could tell was completely devoid of life. Captain Ken Gluwe leaned back in his chair watching the screens seeing nothing the only reason they were heading into this system was because their JumpShip had detected what looked like a quantity of germanium, the critical element that was needed in the construction of KF Drives, if they could locate a large enough vain of the mineral the entire crew could retire to anywhere they wished and live a life of luxury.
“We’re coming up on the readings†his pilot Kathleen Shoda said turning around in her chair “higher than normal metal content as well, possible power signatures.†She said turning back to her screens “it could be a dead JumpShip or WarShip or an inhabited moon system around the gas giant.†She suggested
“Just our usual amount of trouble†their navigator Anton Belyaev joked as the DropShip closed into sensor range “or something completely different…†He said shocked at what his screens were displaying.
The Talisman closed on their target up ahead which turned out to be not a vain of germanium but instead a massive space station. “I see where we got those readings from†Kathleen said as the DropShip continued to close “there are two Invader type JumpShips and maybe a Wagon Wheel type WarShip that have been connected to what looks like a Shoden type space station.†She said looking over the screens “our systems are struggling to pick out which part belongs to what.†She said the Talisman was not a normal Buccaneer over the years the DropShip had been modified with more powerful sensors and a small craft bay.
“We got incoming!†Anton called out as four small craft launched from the space station and began heading towards them “they are of an unknown classification; we’re reading a mix of lasers, missiles and conventional autocannons. Enough to ruin our day†he said Ken looked at the screen and knew that there was no way the Talisman could outrun the small craft and that if any of the Wagon Wheel’s original capital weapons had remained operational the DropShip would be close enough to be targeted.
“Signal our surrender†Ken ordered there was no point in trying to run away from the small craft or the station and he wanted answers to who these people were.
Several hours later Ken and the other twenty-two members of his crew were in a holding room on board the space station mercifully they had placed them on one of the station’s huge gravity decks. Finally the door opened and a young woman, he said young she looked in her early twenties but Ken knew that space living wore on the human body less than life in a gravity well, she had brown-red hair and wore a plain brown jumpsuit. “Who commands here?†She asked
“I’m the commander of the Talisman†Ken said stepping forward “but you command here.â€
“Welcome to The Ark†she said “please follow me†she said turning around Ken glanced around his crew for a moment meeting each of their eyes with a look several of them nodded back to him before he walked out into the corridor. The mystery woman had already began walking down the corridor Ken realized after a moment that they were along there were no guards beyond his guide.
“An impressive facility you have here†Ken said as they walked she nodded but otherwise did not reply. Moving through the facility Ken began to realize just how large “The Ark†was as they continued on down the corridor entering another large room inside there was only a single large dark skinned man.
“Welcome on board the Ark Captain Gluwe I am Kommandant Lincoln Champlin†he said stepping forward extending his hand Ken Gluwe stood his ground and met the man’s hand shaking it.
“Thank you Kommandant it’s an impressive facility†Ken said releasing the man’s hand trying to massage the blood back into his own Lincoln Champlin had a strong grip. “I didn’t think anything like this existed in the Periphery?â€
“Or anywhere else†Champlin said he had a deep voice that Ken found oddly reassuring.
“The Galax Floating Tower and perhaps the famous shipyards that remain in the Inner Sphere rival it in size and complexity†he said “but there is nothing like this station it's cobbled together from JumpShips and Space Stations.†He said impressed with what he had seen.
“Originally this was a deep space Taurian Mining Colony†he explained “three of the moons which are around this gas giant hold exotic minerals which once upon a time were in high demand by the Taurians.†Champlin said “when the Succession Wars hit the Taurians had a lot interest in the materials that were here so the two mining stations and small ground colony were largely abandoned.†He said “in the first day of the Second Succession War the Wagon Wheel Fredrickson jumped into the system. The ship had somehow survived a battle with House Davion and her surviving crewmen had chosen to leave Taurian service.â€
“They went rogue?†Ken asked shocked “weren’t they afraid of Taurian retribution?â€
“Everyday†Champlin admitted “but the attack never came†he explained “the crew grew old the remains of their WarShip slowly became less and less space worthy. Then after about fifty years the people of Horikawa decided to try and salvage what they could of the two Showden Mining Stations and the Fredrickson by docking them together.†He said telling the story of The Ark’s construction in his mind Ken could imagine seeing the hulks slowly coming together maneuvered by skilled crews and fearless tug drivers. “That took three weeks†he explained “they wanted to make sure it would last so once the three were docked for transit they immediately began welding the docking collars so they would be permanently closed.†He said “even as the first people from the ground were coming up to the station the engineers were breaking down several of the DropShips plugging the hull breaches in the Fredickson and continuing to expand the deck space.â€
“It must quite a sense of achievement†Ken said
“It was†Champlin said “over the years three JumpShips entered they system. One was convinced to peacefully join the Ark’s people while the other two were overrun by our Defence Teams.†He explained showing Ken that the Ark’s people could defend themselves and that they had.â€
“What happened to those crews?†Ken asked saying what he had been thinking.
“They were landed on the second moon of the gas giant it is habitable if a little cold†Champlin explained “it was the site of one of the original Taurian mines. The crews were marooned on the planet along with four DropShips which had been drained of their fuel.†He said “their descendants remain on the moon today some of them still in those DropShips others in the mines below we maintain contact with them and often exchange supplies.â€
“But you still live apart?â€
“Yes they are used to ‘real’ gravity while my people love space.†He said “there are almost three hundred thousand people in this system the majority live on that moon but we control space this station and that I can guarantee will not be changing.†He said his deep voice showing a deadly edge that surprised Ken. “And then we come to youâ€
“We are from the Fronc Reaches†Ken said seeing that Champlin had little to no realization on who that was “originally we were known as the New Colony Region a joint initiative to colonize the region between the Taurian Concordat and the Magistracy of Canopus. Over time the New Colony Region found itself wishing for a path that set it apart from that of the states that had founded it until we decided to stand alone.†He said “recently we have expanded into several systems controlled that had been controlled by the Taurians and while that was a good first step now my government wish to expand into other systems.â€
“Horikawa included?†Champlin asked his voice neutral once more
“Only if we are welcome†Ken explained “the Taurian systems that joined us welcome membership in the Fronc Reaches we are not hostile to others instead we would prefer to expand through respect and cooperation. Much like the ideals your people shared when they built the Ark.†He suggested trying to appeal to the dark man’s history making the most out of this negotiation.
“What could you bring us that we don’t already have?†Champlin challenged
“Exotic foods, tourism from beyond your system, advanced weaponry, spare parts.†Ken suggested “now across the Inner Sphere and into the periphery WarShips are returning†he said noticing the surprise across Lincoln Champlin’s face. “There are systems on board this station that I would assume you cannot replace?†Ken asked knowing the answer the people of the Ark wouldn’t have continued to include parts from other ships if the original station could have survived on its own instead they had used what they could to build their home. “The Fronc Reaches is in the position to negotiate for these parts with other nations, a far stronger position than Horikawa could attain itself.†He said he knew he was possibly over playing their position slightly but he knew that the Fronc Reaches place would be better off than Horikawa alone.
“And what could we offer the Fronc Reaches?†Champlin asked
“The exotic resources you spoke of are a start; we could sell them for a profit, while those small craft you approached us with could be quite profitable for your system there are many systems in the Periphery that could use them as a basic defence.†Ken suggested
“Your nation could take us onto the galactic stage†Champlin said quietly “while helping us maintain our home†he said his deep voice sounding softer now “that is an attractive idea to me and I am sure it would be as attractive to other members of our leadership. I will have you returned to your crew Captain while I discuss our future with the others.â€
Several weeks later Horikawa and The Ark were inducted into the Fronc Reaches as two separate members of the state with the planet’s population and the space station’s people each given a voice in the Fronc Reaches. The system agrees to join the peripher nation on the condition that the Fronc Reaches keep the secret of where the system was from the other powers while also agreeing to transfer resources to the Fronc Reaches and to sell the Pretender-class Small craft to the nation.
Downtown Randis City
Hope, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
14th February 3104
Christian Nova Cat glanced through his messages he’d worked all day and now was the time to relax his wife Megan was making them and their son food. She entered the main room of their small home with some steaming food placing it down on the table. “What’s wrong?†She asked looking at him
“I got the promotion†he said Christian worked at the Hope Industrial Works and had been trying to get promoted by their parent Clan since the Nova Cats took over Randis.
“Then why do you look unhappy†she said sitting down opposite him.
“It’s on New Barcellaâ€
“New Barcella†she almost spat leaving the world’s name hanging in the air every citizen of the Nova Cat's Den knew the trouble that had befallen the Clan's capital world. “What about us?†She asked he knew she meant herself and their son Dominic.
“It doesn’t say†he said looking over the document not seeing anything that would indicate his family’s travel.
“They can’t do this to you†she said after a few moments standing up angrily. Almost perfectly on cue there was a heavy knock on the door. Still standing Megan stepped closer to the door and opened it revealing a smartly dressed member of the Nova Cat warrior caste he was young perhaps nineteen or twenty years old and had short cropped dark hair “can I help you?â€
“You are Megan?â€
“Aff I am†she said answering him in the appropriate Clan answer.
“Good this is for you†he said handing her an envelope “have a good night.†He said stepping away Megan swung the door closed then turned towards Christian opening the envelope reading the details inside. “We’re being moved to New Barcella, me and Dominic, within the next three weeks.†She said there were tears in her eyes.
“They cannot do this, this home has been in your family since the foundation of Hope†Christian said angrily rising from his chair stomping towards the door. Swinging the door open Christian took two steps outside seeing the Clan officer further down the street he was about to chase after the Clansmen but Megan’s arm snared his Christian was about to ask why but his eyes saw her outstretched arm pointing down the street. Several doors along the street were several squads of fully armed infantry troopers and at least one infantry fighting vehicle this “peaceful†relocation was backed up with some heavy firepower.
“They control the guns†she said finally pulling him back inside. Over the course of the next six months this was a scene repeated across the Nova Cat’s Den as the Nova Cats attempted to bring people with the right skills to New Barcella. In the rare occurrences where the civilians resisted the move the Clan’s Touman reacted quickly to arrest, and in many cases execute, those who were working against the Nova Cat’s commands. Word of the relocation's filtered out to the nearby nations. The Intelligence masters of the Nova Cat’s rivals passed this back to their agents working inside the Nova Cat’s Den and urged them to try to join this relocation in an attempt to locate New Barcella unfortunately the Nova Cats were very selective in who they brought with them to their capitol system.
Genetic’s research facility
Ford, Wolf Empire
22nd February 3104
Life with the Wolves had not been bad for Dr Dana Wolf she had learned more about Genetics in the short time she’d been with the Clan than she’d learned in all her training on Terra. Inside scientist facilities she had full autonomy and was allowed to go where she liked when she liked moving down the corridor she suddenly felt a pair of hands grab her by the shoulders and pull her into a side room. Dana began to scream and then saw it was Marc Wolf “what are you doing here?†She asked in a rapid whisper.
“You need to get out of here now†he said in a commanding voice.
“Why?â€
“There are things coming things that you, and our children, cannot be part of†Marc said how he knew she was pregnant was beyond her but Marc was already moving “follow me. If anyone says anything you are under my command.†He said leading her from the facility and into a nearby ground car. From the scientist facility Marc drove quickly to the DropPort she learned that Marc now held the rank of Star Captain and was in line to fight for the Ward bloodname when a position within the bloodhouse was available. At the DropPort Marc did not stop instead he drove straight into a Union-class DropShip.
“What is going on?†She demanded as he stopped the vehicle inside the DropShip.
“I have booked you a position as this ship’s medical officer†Marc explained “this ship will take you to Solaris VII and from there you will be free of the Wolves.†He said looking at her.
“Come with me†she asked but the Wolf warrior shook his head
“I am a Wolf†he said even though she could see he did not want to remain away from her. Dana leaned over and embraced the Wolf warrior before reluctantly leaving the ground car. Nearly an hour later the DropShip lifted off from Ford heading for a JumpShip and then on towards Solaris VII. Nearly two months later in late April the DropShip arrived on Solaris VII and Dr Dana Wolf turned herself over to the SLDF authorities on the planet. Dr Dana Carlyle was rapidly returned to Glengarry once there on the Carlyle family estate Dana decided to remove herself from the mercenary trade once and for all by selling her family’s mercenary Regiment, the Grey Death Legion, to the Brewer family of Hesperus II. Instead she chose to concentrate on caring for her unborn child, in ruling Glengarry for the Steiner family and running Grey Death Technologies, the Battle Armour factory founded by Legion techs.
Public Announcement, Duke Bannister Cameron’s residence
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
28th February 3104
Despite officially being retired from the SLDF Duke Bannister Cameron often appeared in public wearing his SLDF uniform when he appeared on the tri-vid screen wearing a simple black suit, white shirt and tie everyone knew that there was something wrong. “Ladies and Gentlemen I am Bannister Cameron and today I bring you grave news†he said glancing down his lack of rank or title adding to the words that something terrible had happened. “Today it is my duty to announce that Governor Archer Kendrick Christifori has passed away in his sleep the world, his homeworld, of Thorin.†He said allowing the moment to pass for a moment.
“Governor Archer Christifori was a hero to the Inner Sphere he was a former-Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force, a hero of the Clan War, a husband and a father and he will be missed by all of those who knew him.†He said pausing for a moment. “Archer was my superior, my colleague, my rival and my friend.†Bannister said “there are many who feel the same way and everyone will have the opportunity to say goodbye. His body will lie in state at The Fort facility on Thorin for the duration of March with his funeral to take place in early April. I ask that all who wish to pay their respects do so. God bless Archer Christifori, the Christifori family, and the Star League Defence Force.†He said signing off ending the transmission.
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Small update leading to bigger things...
Captain’s Quarters (Subtlety MOD-class Battleship)
Nadir Point, Cole Harbour
Magistracy of Canopus
10th March 3104
The door chime sounded to Captain William Leroy-Detrich’s quarters the Captain hadn’t expected a visitor but called out anyway “it’s open come in†he said the door opened a moment later and Commander America Park entered the room saluting as she saw him. He had told her on several occasions that she was a guest onboard his ship and did not need to salute him but she continued to anyway. “America, it’s good to see you†he said greeting the younger woman “all packed?â€
“Not quite†she admitted “I’ve contacted the Magistracy Armed Forces High Command and sold my commission.†She said the Magistracy of Canopus had a strange system where officers could invest in their own promotions for America to have sold her promotion was quite a step.
“Why would you do that?†He asked surprised at her move
“What the Magistracy could offer me no longer appealed†America admitted she had never joined the Magistracy through loyalty to the Centrella family or the Magistracy. “I joined the armed forces to see some of the Magistracy, to learn and to make myself a better person. I don’t think they can help me move to the next level.â€
“And who do you believe can help you?â€
“Subtlety†America said “I believe this College can help me move forward and I think I can help you.†She said “I know the Inner Sphere better than you do especially the Free Worlds League†she promised him William looked dubious. “My last holiday was to Wisconsin beautiful waterfalls.â€
“I don’t think we were planning on traveling through that system.†He said but he raised his hand to forestall a further argument. “You’re in Commander, welcome aboard, we’ll figure out what your duties are after the next jump.†He said America Park smiled broadly before coming to attention saluting him properly for the first time before leaving the room. Soon after their meeting Subtlety completed its jump out of the Magistracy of Canopus and into the Free Worlds League’s District of Oriente.
Command Centre Werewolf (McKenna-class Battleship)
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
18th March 3104
“Emergence wave!â€
“Right on time†Khan Amina Kerensky said smiling broadly “I really did not expect your Uncle Vic to sign off on this†she said looking over at Archon Jessica Steiner.
“It was more an agreement between Kathil Shipworks and your Clan†Jessica answered looking at the screens which showed an Avalon Block II-class Cruiser. “Are you sure you wish to do this Khan Kerensky? The price that you are paying for that ship could allow the Mountain Wolves to form an entire Galaxy.â€
“Aff that is true†Amina admitted “but when the Jade Falcons come across the border with a Battleship we need something more than a couple of Corvettes and this ship.†She said since the Mountain Wolves lost the Implacable they had been reduced in WarShip numbers to the Werewolf and two Corvettes as combat assets. The Full Moon, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, was maintained in reserve with orders to avoid combat wherever possible and to evacuate as many Mountain Wolves as possible if Arc Royal was to ever fall to the Jade Falcon advance.
“The Lyran nation could have given you a vessel in trade you did not need to go to the Federated Suns for this deal†Jessica said looking at the Avalon immediately remembering her own vessel of that class, the Archon’s Pride, which had been lost fighting the Jade Falcons.
“Aff we could have Archon†Amina admitted before pausing for a moment she did not wish to insult the Lyran leader with her next words. “We have a strong relationship with your nation†she said “and as such I know that you have no use for a Vincent-class Corvette in your navy. Already your nation benefits from a good relationship with my Mountain Wolf manufacturers so I also know that you do not need our technology.†She said “Kathil Shipworks desired the Killing Blow, I do not know why and I honestly did not ask too many questions†the Khan admitted “my Clan needed something that could come close to rivalling the power of the Implacable. That ship†she said pointing to the screens “that ship has the potential to fill that position.†She said her smile showing the Archon that this Wolf had not lost all of her tricks with position, not that Jessica Steiner should complain much the Avalon would soon take its position on the Jade Falcon border defending her nation. In exchange for this vessel the Wolves had agreed to transfer the Killing Blow, several Isegrim Assault DropShips and quantities of Clan grade equipment to the Federated Suns command over the next three years starting with the immediate transfer of the Killing Blow to Kathil Shipworks.
What Kathil wished with the Wolf WarShip was anyone’s guess but the Federated Suns had a large enough navy to experiment with such things. The Lyran nation on the other hand needed every gun it could lay its hand on especially with the renewed fighting against Jade Falcon forces on Bluque, Wroclaw, Inucalns and Dukambie. Initial reports suggested that Bluque would remain a Lyran holding and that the Jade Falcons would be forced to retreat from the system. The Archon had come here directly after defeating the Jade Falcons on Dukambie but on Wroclaw and Inucalns the Jade Falcons had been triumphant.
Isle of Skye Raid
Rochelle, Wolf Empire
24th March 3104
With other elements of the LCAF fighting off Clan Jade Falcon the Isle of Skye Military attempt to show that they are just as capable by raiding the world of Rochelle, which is controlled by Clan Wolf, the First Isle of Skye Guards RCT supported by the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser LCS William Steiner enter the system on the morning of the 20th March finding two Wolf JumpShips charging their drives.
On detecting the intruders DropShips aerospace fighters and DropShips from the two JumpShips engaged the LCS William Steiner while the First Isle of Skye Guards streams towards the planet. In a short battle the LCS William Steiner destroys two Union C-class DropShips and forces a Carrier-class DropShip to surrender clearing the way for the Lyran conquest of the planet.
The Isle of Skye Guards landed on the planet four days later finding their landings uncontested by the Wolf defenders. Confident that they would be bringing Rochelle back into the Lyran, and Skye, fold the First Guards moved on the planetary capital. An hour later as they reached the outskirts of the capital the penny which had been hanging over the invasion dropped as the 341st Assault Cluster of Clan Wolf revealed itself. The Silver Blizzard, as it was known to the Wolves, had been destroyed and rebuild a dozen times but could trace its linage back to the original Star League Defence Force. It had been reformed in 3094 as part of reformed to the Clan Wolf Touman as a “perfect†Cluster with five Trinaries of Mechs and Battle Armour supported by aerospace units. Without warning the Silver Blizzard’s aerospace units engaged the Isle of Skye aerospace forces tearing into the invaders at the same time as the Wolf ground forces moved on the Isle of Skye ground forces.
While the First Isle of Skye Guards BattleMech regiment had been built as a premier unit of the Isle of Skye military with heavy and assault Mechs bought from Hesperus II and other Lyran factories by the nobility of Skye the unit’s armour and infantry support regiments had been formed cheaply by siphoning companies off of militias across the region. The RCT had also never fought together outside of a training simulation leading to instant trouble as they engaged Clan Wolf for the first time. The Silver Blizzard concentrated fire on the First Guards’ Assault Mechs to start with striking them at long range with heavy fire cutting down an entire company within a couple of minutes. Then the Wolves charged all of the Mechs and battle armour of the Silver Blizzard had been painted exactly the same with silver being the dominant colour supported by white and light blue. As the Wolves closed on their targets Elementals launched themselves from the OmniMechs into the air and like swirling snowflakes of a blizzard they slammed into the Isle of Skye Mechs immediately tearing open the Lyran Mechs.
Within an hour the First Isle of Skye Guards BattleMech regiment had been reduced to less than a battalion of active Mechs. Leaving the armour and infantry to fight in a rearguard action falling back to their DropShips high above the Silver Blizzard’s aerospace units tore the Isle of Skye fighters from the air quickly gaining air superiority. Three hours after the Isle of Skye Regimental Combat Team had arrived on the planet two companies of Mechs, five armour battalions and a couple of hundred infantry troopers boarded their DropShip in what could only be described as a rout as Clan Wolf once more proved it was more than capable of defending its Empire.
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Citizen’s Council
Alshian, Rasalhague Dominion
Clan Occupation Zones
4th April 3104
The Rasalhague Dominion announce the formation of the Citizen’s Council a place where the lower castes of the Rasalhague Dominion can bring their ideas, opinions and concerns to the warrior caste leadership of Clan Ghost Bear without fear of reprisal. The Citizen’s Council have no power to make laws or to make rulings on the goings on inside the Dominion but it does give a voice to the non-warriors of the nation.
Funeral
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
10th April 3104
From across the Inner Sphere, the Periphery and Clan occupied space people gather on Thorin to mourn the passing of Archer Kendrick Christifori, former SLDF Commanding-General and the Governor of Terra. The Star League attempt to use the funeral as a way to bring the the Inner Sphere nations to peace unfortunately while First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, his son Prince Burton Davion and a pregnant Duchess Kym Hasek of the Capellan March were all present the Capellan Confederation refused to send a single representative to the funeral showing their continued disdain for anything related to the Star League Defence Force. Also missing from the funeral is Captain-General Joseph Marik who instead attends the birth of his daughter Ruth Marik on the world that shared her name instead Duke Jonas Halas of the District of Oriente represents the Free Worlds League.
In keeping with a new tradition for Thorin replacing Archer Christifori, with his wife Katya Christifori’s permission, retired SLDF Major-General Caradoc Travena becomes the new Governor of Thorin. With Caradoc Travena, another Lyran national who had served in the SLDF, as their new leader it further tied Thorin to the Star League and to the Protectorate.
Mercenary Contract
Alula Australis, Star League Protectorate
21st April 3104
Using intelligence gained from their battle on New Home in November 3103 the Avanti’s Angels Mercenary Battalion launch an attack on a suspected Word of Blake extremists hold-out on Alula Australis. Going on the attack as soon as they were in position the mercenary command quickly overwhelm and destroy a reinforced company of raiders using classic Word of Blake BattleMechs and Battle Armour. Over the course of nearly an hour the Avanti’s Angels constantly press the raiders forcing them to react to the mercenaries never losing the initiative.
Like their actions New Earth the assault on the Alula Australis compound is for a private contract and not the SLDF meaning the Avanti’s Angels assault catches the local guard regiment completely by surprise. By the time the SLDF defenders arrive the mercenaries are clearing the final rooms of the compound as the extremists fight room to room in their defence. Following the end of the fighting the Avanti’s Angels are briefly placed under arrest by the SLDF as they attempt to determine exactly what happened within the compound. An SLIC investigation confirms the mercenary’s belief that this was a Word of Blake extremist’s stronghold and training camp the Avanti’s Angels are awarded the salvage rights they had been promised through their contract. The mercenaries then left heading towards their next contract in the Magistracy of Canopus striking at Marian and pirate forces in the contested region between the Magistracy of Canopus and the Marian Hegemony which was growing in its scale and intensity.
Within the Star League Protectorate deeper questions are asked like how a Word of Blake stronghold had been allowed to remain on Star League soil? How many other strongholds could there be and how the Avanti’s Angels had been able to launch an attack on a Protectorate world
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Throne Room, Robinson
Robinson, Draconis March
Federated Suns
2nd May 3104
Duke Jerome Sandoval approached the throne of the Draconis March, the seat of the Sandoval family here on Robinson, sitting there was twenty-four year old Duchess Elaine Sandoval eldest child of Jerome’s cousin Tancred. To Jerome the young woman in front of him did not look well she’d cut her long dark hair short and dyed it red to Jerome it didn’t suit her she wore a simple green jumpsuit without any markings at all. Deep circles around her eyes indicated that recent raids on the March by suspected Draconis Combine forces had taken a toll on the young duchess’ sleep patterns.
“It’s good to see you Elaine†he said stopping short of approaching the throne.
“Uncle Jerome†she greeted him although not a blood uncle to her he’d always been a friend to her father when she was growing up and it was an affectionate term she’d used for him for years. “You know why you are here†she said it was not a question everyone in the March probably knew why Jerome was on Robinson today.
“I do†he said “are you sure about this Elaine?â€
“I am†she said rising from the throne chair “I never wanted to lead the March, my father knew this, it was always going to be Duncan’s to lead.†She explained naming her sixteen year old brother who had taken early admittance to the AFFS just a month before. “Unfortunately fate intervened in the plan.†She said refusing to name the Bounty Hunter who was the instrument of that fate.
“It may be your brother’s in the future Elaine†Jerome promised “if he wishes to command this March I will make sure he is ready for the job.â€
“That’s all I can ask thank your Uncle†she said stepping away from the throne.
“What will you do?†He asked remaining rooted to the spot watching her with his eyes.
“Go back to my studies I think I made a far better art student than a politican.†She said moving over she hugged her Uncle for a moment before heading towards the exit of the room. As she approached two Cavalier Battle Armoured troopers saluted the leaving Duchess before resuming their guard of the room. Jerome for his part stood in the room for several more minutes looking at the throne before finally ascending the flight of four steps up to the chair assuming his position as head of the Draconis March.
Second Battle of Incukalns
Incukalns, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
Clan Occupied Space
19th May 3104
Clan Jade Falcon had driven deep into the Lyran Commonwealth the deepest point being Incukalns a system without a single thing of note other than it was capable of supporting human life. According to Lyran Commonwealth Intelligence the Jade Falcons had failed to defend their recently claimed system well enough placing not a single WarShip in the system while only two damaged clusters of ground troops defended the ground unforately they were wrong.
As an SLDF, Lyran and mercenary assault force arrived in the system at the Nadir Point they were immediately confronted by the Jade Falcon’s Turkina’s Might a recently commissioned Mississippi-class Battleship, a class which was itself based on the original Star League-era Texas-class. When the Turkina’s Might had detected not only a Lyran WarShip but also an SLDF vessel the Jade Falcon vessel had immediately engaged with its weapons and aerospace fighters shattering three JumpShips and crippling several DropShips before the assault force had recovered from their.
In the confusion caused by the vessel’s assault the Battleship was able to withdraw to extreme range where it could continue to pick at the assault force. The SLDF’s SLS St Patrick, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, and the LCS Lightning, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, attempted to shield the ground forces by taking long range shots at the larger Falcon WarShip but there was little chance that the two Heavy Cruisers could do telling damage without closing range significantly or resorting to the use of nuclear weapons.
While the Lyran Regiment commander called for the use of nuclear weapons this argument was rendered mute when another Jade Falcon WarShip the Night Talon emerged from behind the planet of Incukalns. The WarShip which was completing supply runs to the planet would be more than combat ready before the liberating forces arrived at the planet instead the Inner Sphere forces turned their focus away from attack and instead towards survival. With three crippled JumpShips they had no choice transferring crew and as much supplies as they could off of several DropShips the invaders sent six cargo DropShips on ballistic collision course with the Turkina’s Might intending on distracting the Battleship long enough to allow the invasion force to escape.
As the six DropShips approached the Battleship the Jade Falcon WarShip concentrated its fire on them allowing the Lyran and SLDF vessels to escape the system before they received further heavy damage. The six DropShips without crews to guide them had little to no chance of hitting the WarShip and they fell quickly to the massed naval laser fire of the Ares Might.
The Jade Falcons declared the action in the Incukalns system a victory for their Clan as they had stopped the Inner Sphere forces reaching the planet but the repercussions went far further than the little known system. On both Tharkad and Terra questions were raised by both nations to why neither have a Battleship of their own to answer that of the Jade Falcons. Where the Clan had invested in not one Battleship design of their own they had also gained the Nightlord II deign from the Snow Ravens while the Lyran Commonwealth continued to rely on the Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser and the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser for their muscle. In the SLDF Navy the largest vessel they could call on was the Enterprise II-class Super Carrier an excellent vessel but still the only vessel of its class while the rest of their vessels were a mix of Heavy Cruisers and Battle-cruisers or smaller vessels. Both the SLDF and LCAF noted that virtually every other nation had an active Battleship in their armadas, or in the Free Worlds League’s case had one under construction, leading to severe rethinks by both armies.
Elsewhere analysts note that the Inner Sphere is approaching a position it was once in before when a well placed WarShip could determine the outcome of an entire invasion. They note that the only way to counter these vessels will be to bring a vessel of equal or greater capabilities, bring more vessels than your opponent could employ, or to follow the example of the Capellan Confederation in the widespread deployment of nuclear weapons against naval assets and if possible against their construction and support structures. They note that while the BattleMech remains the king of any battlefield it steps on getting to that battlefield was becoming more and more difficult with the prolification of naval assets across the Succession States and the Clans.
Merc’s Tavern, Gravity Deck 4
Galatea Station, Galatea
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd May 3104
Justin Rubinsky the commander of the reborn Rubinsky’s Light Horse Mercenary Battalion stood at the end of a table full of members of his battalion with a drink raised. “Ladies and Gentlemen we are staying in the Commonwealth†he said confirming their first contract had been signed. All along table the officers and warriors tapped twice sending the noise echoing through the establishment from all around the room people turned to look at the command. Through the bar a middle aged man with oriental features moved over to be standing beside Justin. “Can I help you†he asked maintaining his calm the male was from either the Capellan Confederation or somewhere close.
“Would you mind my people are trying to say goodbye to those we have lostâ€
“Well carry on†Justin said confidently “we’re celebrating a new start for our people.†He said looking at the older man.
“I wish you well then†he said extending his hand “Sang-shao Matt Blackledge†he said introducing himself.
“Sang-shoa? Capellan Confederation Armed Forces?†He asked looking at the man he lacked any insignia of the Capellan Confederation.
“Formerly†Blackledge said “we were abandoned by the CCAF on Zion. Now we have a new path.â€
“Formally… so you went rogue…†Justin Rubinsky said
“Just like you did Mr Rubinsky†Blackledge teased “last I heard you were enlisted with the AFFS just like your brother.â€
“Your intelligence is good†Justin admitted “but I have since tendered my resignation and reformed the Rubinsky’s Light Horse†he said the other members of the unit tapped the table two more times.
“And you just have to make us all aware†Blackledge said becoming irritated as if to reinforce his point the other members of the Light Horse banged the table two more times further irritating Blackledge. From behind the former Capellan officer further members of his unit approached as they did the other members of the Light Horse rose from their chairs while other patrons of the unit looked their way.
Justin Rubinsky wasn’t exactly sure who had thrown the first punch but almost within the blink of an eye the two units were embroiled in a brawl that would have been at home in any bar throughout history where two rival groups met. With neither unit armed, as per station rules, the fight was a fair one as the other commands quickly entered into the fight. Almost as soon as the fight had begun it was over as Galatea Station Security charged into the gravity deck locking down anyone who didn’t work for the station. Unlike the brawlers the Security units were armed with sonic weapons and guns with stun rounds and quickly they locked down all of the fighters. None of the mercenaries were armed so the station authorities had allowed them all to return to their DropShips and head for their contracts. Both of the mercenary units were headed for the Lyran Commonwealth borders for extended contracts.
Parliament of Bowang, Bowang City
District of Bowang, Free Worlds League
29th May 3104
A crowd had gathered outside of the Parliament of Bowang but this was not a crowd of anger or aggression but instead one of hope, peace and celebration. Prime Minister Allison Kaning, the leader of Bowang and of the District of Bowang, took to the podium in front of the famous white doors of the Parliament building and addressed the crowd. “Ladies and Gentlemen it has been my pleasure to lead Bowang and its District for the last ten years. We have accomplished many great things together†she said “we built on the Bowang Free Trade Sphere. We triumphed at forging the Outer League Alliance not through the use go weapons of war but through the power of words and peace.†She said proudly the crowds cheered at her words proud of what they had accomplished “we sponsored the rebirth of a united Free Worlds League and saw in the re-establishment of House Marik as one of the great houses of the Inner Sphere.†She said the crowd cheered again although this time it was slightly more muted not everyone wished a Marik to remain in power on Atreus. “We successfully brought the Wolf’s Dragoons into our nation and dealt with Clan Sea Fox again we used words instead of weapons of arms.†She said emphasizing her point she had never declared war on anyone, she had been willing to fight if it was needed but had much preferred to use words to get her point across. “As this nation goes forward we must continue to live up to the ideals this nation was born through and remember to watch out for threats to our nation. I thank you for your long support and look forward to my retirement.†She said stepping down replacing her at the podium stood a man who looked like he was in his early fifties, he was of Indian descent, his dark hair going grey he wore a navy business suit.
“Ladies and Gentlemen I am Abraham Ledford†he said “Allison Kaning has served our nation well and I hope that she enjoys the the time she now has off. I also hope that we all enjoy and remember today, and remember Allison Kaning’s contributions to our nation, to help that along I am happy to announce that across the District of Bowang the 29th May will be recognized as a public holiday with all workers, not engaged in work necessary to the running or defence of our nation, entitled to a paid day off work.†He announced a good way to start a new job by telling everyone that they were entitled to the day off. Ledford’s announcement turned the celebration of Allison Kaning’s ruler-ship into a party that ran deep into the night on Bowang and across the planets of the District. In the District of Gibraltar and the District of Lesnovo there were calls for the holiday to be recognized across the territory once claimed by the Outer League Alliance but these calls do not translate into the holiday being recognized.
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Subtlety Profitable College of Military Arts
Oriente, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
2nd June 3104
The Subtlety and her attached JumpShips arrive in the Oriente system under escort from the Oriente Navy. When they arrive they are met by Duke Jonas Halas and are given full honours as visitors to the realm. Captain William Leroy-Dietrich agrees for the Subtlety to spend three weeks training with the people of Oriente including assisting them with simulated attack runs on the Fletcher Shipyard and a simulated attack on Oriente by a Capellan Du Shi Wang-class Battleship, which the Subtlety herself doubles for.
During the time Commander America Park, formerly of the Magistracy of Canopus Armed Forces, is certified to fly all of the Subtlety’s aerospace fighters and for work at one of the Subtlety’s weapons batteries. When they leave at the end of June they head towards Regulus with three students from Oriente still on board wishing to complete their studies Captain Leroy-Dietich promises Duke Jonas Halas that if the students wish to return to Oriente he will personally pay for them to make the trip via JumpShip.
Contested Space
Isle of Skye Lyran Commonwealth
4th June 3104
Following months of low scale raids DCMS units retaliate against the Isle of Skye striking at Baxter, Yed Posterlor, Corridan IV, Eaglesham and Phalan. On each of the worlds the DCMS troops find only small numbers of LCAF and mercenary troops but they are unable to secure them. By accident or by desire to cause further chaos the Fifth Benjamin Regulars Regiment off of Benjamin jump into the Accrington system, controlled by the Rasalhague Dominion, instead of jumping through the system into the Lyran Commonwealth the Fifth Benjamin Regulars launch an attack on Accrington assaulting the Bear positions. Within an hour the Fifth surround the Bear’s Third Kavalleri Cluster of Zeta Galaxy the native Rasalhaguan unit refuses repeated calls to surrender and are completely destroyed by the DCMS unit.
More than a month later on the 12th July while fighting continues on several of the worlds the Rasalhague Dominion reacts to the attack on Accrington. Ghost Bear units led by those of Zeta and Epsilon Galaxies strike against the worlds of Eaglesham, Phalan, Accrington, Cabalari, Shinonoha, Sakhalin and Dalkeith. With heavy fighting already taking place in this area and with none of the three nations able to dominate the fight this area is classed as contested space with all civilian traffic advised to avoid the area unless escorted by military units.
In late July the DCMS add to the chaos by adding additional Regiments and WarShips into the region expanding their attacks against the Dominion to include Aubisson, Buckminster and Port Moseby. With the Rasalhague Dominion concentrating on the previously attacked worlds the Draconis Combine is able to liberate Buckminster from the Clan forces which is a powerful political message leading up to the Star League Conference in November.
Thirty-First Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
18th June 3104
At the Thirty-first Star League Games Clan Wolf’s 328th Assault Cluster, The Lion Hearted, dominate the games taking the top five slots in the competition with Star Colonel Ivan Ward, the unit’s commander, claiming victory in the games. Independent competitors and the Star League Stables complain that the Wolves should never have been allowed to enter the fifteen competitors that they entered but the Star League Games organizers point out that the Wolves entered independently of each other and throughout the competition they attacked each other as often as they attacked the other competitors.
Several of the stables point out that there were several cases where the Wolves worked together and concentrated their fire on individual targets, the majority of these against Zellbrigen Stables run by Clan Sea Fox and Clan Jade Falcon, but the organizers note that throughout the history of the games there have been times where groups of warriors banded together to get themselves further along the competition and rule in favour of the Wolves.
Outside the Star League Stadium there is a small amount of public disturbances the Solaris Police forces control most of the trouble while the First and Second Solaris Security Regiments of the SLDF provide support and target the worst offenders. Within a few hours Solaris is back to normal business and heading towards the year’s regular games season with Clan Wolf expected to dominate as the Lion Hearted have entered a team much to the disappointment of many Solaris fans Star League Games winner Ivan Ward is not part of the team.
Third Battle of Incukalns
Incukalns, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
30th June 3104
The Clan Mountain Wolf Warhawk OmniMech side stepped a torrent of autocannon fire from the Jade Falcon Bane BattleMech and returned fire with its remaining two particle cannons mounted on the left arm the right arm ended just below the shoulder blown off by Jade Falcon fire. The two man-made lightning shots flew through the air for an instant linking the two Mechs before the blast burned away armour from the upper chest and head area of the Bane. For a moment the one hundred ton BattleMech stood there like a standing stature before it fell smashing into the ground between the Mountain Wolf Mech and its attacker. The Mountain Wolf pilot coughed heavily as the heat slowly drained from the Mech’s cockpit before looking for another target.
The Third Battle of Incukalns had started eight days before with the arrival of the Clan Mountain Wolf flagship Werewolf, the SLS St Patrick and the LCS Lightning escorting the same ground forces as before with two Clusters of Clan Mountain Wolf attached at a pirate point close to the planet. The ground forces had streamed towards the planet while the three WarShips charged at the Night Talon which was still in the same position as before close to the planet.
As the ground forces charged towards the planet the three WarShips had turned on the Silver Talon blasting the Nightlord II with multiple volleys of naval particle cannon, autocannon and missile. The combined fire of the three WarShips on the single Nightlord II was too much for the Battleship but its return fire and the attacks from the Jade Falcon WarShips aerospace fighters was enough to destroy the SLS St Patrick and the LCS Lightning while the continued fighting caused further damage against the Werewolf.
Now for five days the combined Inner Sphere and Mountain Wolf had fought against four front-line Clusters of Jade Falcon troops. Their losses had been heavy but so were the losses taken by the Jade Falcons it was only a matter of time before the world was back under Lyran control. “This is General Trudeau to all units fall back to your DropShips prepare for an immediate evacuation.†General Shelly Trudeau, commander of the 789th Striker Regimental Brigade of the SLDF, said contacting all commands. Star Colonel Mark Vickers reached for the communication system inside the Warhawk’s cockpit but General Luther Sloan of the Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT beat him to it.
“WE CAN STILL WIN†he shouted angrily into the communications system Mark Vickers recalled from speakers for a moment surprised about the volume of Sloan’s call.
“An additional WarShip has arrived in the system along with ground forces. Combined with the Ares Might they outgun the Werewolf. We need to get off the planet and back to the pirate point before they are able to get into range so get your ass back onto your DropShip and get the hell off this rock!†Trudeau responded the Mountain Wolves could not afford to lose the Werewolf in this nothing system Star Colonel Vickers immediately shut down the communication channel that linked him to the other units.
“All Mountain Wolf forces fall back to the DropShips as soon as all units are accounted for launch and rejoin with the Werewolf.†He ordered the other Mountain Wolves knew that he would only call for a withdrawal if there was no chance of them succeeding.
From the planet Mountain Wolf, Lyran Commonwealth and Jade Falcon units withdrew from the planet’s surface rendezvousing with the Werewolf. For three days the combined forces burned quickly back towards the pirate point and their waiting JumpShips. As they approached the jump point the Ares Might, the Jade Falcon Mississippi-class Battleship, entered extreme weapons range. The Werewolf and the upgraded Jade Falcon Battleship traded blow after blow with naval particle cannons and naval lasers as the ground forces joined up with their JumpShips. Before the Ares Might entered a range where it could do any meaningful damage to the Werewolf the Mountain Wolf was also able to jump clear of the system.
Elsewhere in the Clan Jade Falcon Occupation Zone the Clan turns Graceland, Koniz and Blair Atoll to Hell’s Horses control in small trials of Possession freeing up additional troops and equipment which they can funnel into the defence of Incukalns and other areas of the Occupation Zone.
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Clan Wolf offensive
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
8th July 3104
Building on their victory in the Solaris games and the victories of Clan Jade Falcon against the Lyrans Clan Wolf launch assaults against the Lyran Commonwealth with Wolf Clusters striking at Kalidasa, New Hope, Alkes. On each of the planet they come across elements of the Second Isle of Skye Guards RCT and planetary militia units. The 328th Assault Cluster, the Lion Hearted, leading the way by hitting Kalidasa the unit commanded by Ivan Ward, winner of the Star League Games, quickly breaks the defenders lines forcing them from their base with three Trinaries of his elite Cluster. The Wolf Star Colonel allows the survivors to regroup and retreat off world. The Wolf attack catches the Lyran Commonwealth completely by surprise with nothing from the Intelligence services suggesting an attack was imminent.
Border conflict
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns
18th July 3104
As a new battle begins on the Lyran/Wolf border another conflict continues with little sign of ending. For months the Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns border had been lit aflame with conflict. Prince Burton Davion joins an attack on the historical Ares system with the First Davion Guards RCT and the First Federated Suns Lancers Regiment. The Prince leads the First Davion Guards from the fore and does not hide his presence on Ares instead crushing the local militia and elements of the Capellans Fourth Defence Force. For decades Ares had avoided heavy combat due to its historical significance and its status as a free port however Burton had chosen it exactly for those qualities. With Federated Suns and mercenary units engaged in combat with the Capellans on six different Capellan worlds the Prince repeats a trick he used against the Draconis Combine previously and contacts Sian using the planetary HPG. He calls on the Capellans to end the conflict before more lives are lost.
Nearly two weeks later Warrior House Doru takes a run at the planet attempting to strike directly at the Prince however they are unable to get past the AFFS WarShips assigned to the system. The Warrior House dies to the man attempting to run past the FSS Gold Archer a Robinson-class Transport. Prince Burton Davion uses the HPG one more time calling for a cease fire Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao contacts New Avalon and agrees to a cease fire with the Federated Suns claiming four of the planets that were contested while the Capellans successfully liberate Grand Base and Holloway. The District of Oriente of the Free Worlds League uses the distraction of the fighting between the Capellans and Federated Suns to seize control over Palos and Ulan Bator.
Briefing, Anders McKenna (Swiftsure-class Cruiser)
Varnay Anchorage, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
21st July 3104
Khan Canin Rosse stood on the gravity deck of one of the Nova Cat’s newest WarShips the Anders McKenna, a Swfitsure-class Cruiser, beside him stood Star Commodore Rachel Bavros, Star Colonel Fallon and Star Colonel Dominic the commanders of the Anders McKenna, the First and the Second ProtoMech Clusters. “You are aware of your task and the limitations of it?†He asked looking at them.
“We’re to be based off the Anders McKenna†Dominic said “we are to raid the Taurian Concordat and see if we can find the source of the raids on our shipping to Davetal III.â€
“We are then to supplement the defenders there.†Fallon said Rosse looked at the WarShip’s commander.
“We are to act as escort and only engage space bound targets. We are to pay particular attention to any encounter we have with the Taurian’s Hyades-class vessels.†She said naming the new class of armed JumpShip the Taurians had deployed so far however the single vessel deployed had not been seen. “We are to test each system of the Anders McKenna and ensure the WarShip is ready for service with our Clan. And scan any systems that we could use in the future for colonies or supply bases.†She said
“Very good good hunting to you all†he said.
Over the next six months the Anders McKenna and its two attached ProtoMech Clusters discovered several additional planets the Nova Cats could use as colonies and supply points this information would eventually be passed to the New Worlds Exploration Cluster for further checks. These worlds would eventually become known as the Cat’s Tail after further exploration by the Nova Cats.
The Nova Cat units also raided eight different planets in the Taurian Concordat, for the most part these raids went well with one of the Clusters taking part while the other remained in their DropShip either in orbit or at the landing zones. On Cadiz the First ProtoMech Cluster lost nearly a Binary of units fighting against The Foul Tempered Mercenary Command this caused Star Colonel Dominic to hot-drop his entire cluster of ProtoMechs on top of the Foul Tempered scattering their second Battalion. The Nova Cats and the mercenaries continued to fight for three further days before the Clan forces were able to withdraw from from the planet.
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Thank Marauder648 for the Rasalhague Dominion wiping out the Draconis Combine's little territory gain.
Unfinished Book Movement
Avalon City, Albion
New Avalon, Crucis March
9th August 3104
With the formation of the Federated Commonwealth, the arrival of the Clans, the formation of the new Star League Defence Force and the fall of the Federated Commonwealth the Unfinished Book Movement begins a Sixth Edition of their sacred texts. With information provided by Sterling McKenna and acquired from Clan Sea Fox traders the Unfinished Book name the revision after The Rememberance.
Planning Room, Marik Palace
Marik, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
12th August 3104
“The timing could not be more perfect!†One of the Generals said triumphantly looking at Captain-General Joseph Marik. As Joseph grew up he had been told for many years by the church that violence brings only violence in return and that words could solve many problems. When he championed the idea to rebuild the Free Worlds League he used words not force of arms to bring by his desires. But with the Clans they only understood one thing. “With the Wolves invading the Lyran Commonwealth the time is right for us to strike and strike hard.†He said continuing Joseph couldn’t stop himself agreeing. Since the Wolves had secured their first three targets the Clan had struck out at three more targets hitting Shiloh, Athena and Dieudonne all former Free Worlds League worlds under Lyran Commonwealth control. Although they did not have concrete information on what was happening it appeared that Athena had fallen within hours of the Wolf landing while the remains of the Second Isle of Skye Guards RCT were engaged in heavy fighting on Dieudonne; a battle Joseph’s advisers noted they were unlikely to survive. Elements of the First Isle of Skye Guards had moved from New Kyoto to support militia forces on Shiloh but by the time they arrived in range the Wolves had already overrun the defenders. Now the First Guards were fighting against superior Wolf numbers and would likely have to retreat sooner rather than later.
“We are sure we can pull this off?†Joseph asked his advisers carefully together they had assembled regiments and mercenaries from across the reunited Free Worlds League for this move but he needed to know they could do it.
“We are sure†General Michael Donovan said casting his hand over the planning table. “Tomorrow morning the Fourth Marik Guards and the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente Regiments supported by there mercenary Daniel’s Avengers, Graves’ Dancers and Arlington’s Angels will strike at Helm, Tania Australis, Stewart and Danais.†He said marking the three systems with a red marker pen. “We believe that Tania Australis, Helm and Danais will fill within a matter of hours Stewart will be more difficult as the Wolves seem to value it as much as the family it is named after did.†He said “we have unconfirmed reports that the Nicholas Kerensky, a Texas-class Battleship, has been repaired and is operational in the system so we are sending all four WarShips of the Thessaly Battle group to the system.â€
“The day after†General Katherine Todd said speaking up the First Marik Militia, the Fourth Regulan Hussars, and the mercenary units the Blade Legion and Brotherhood of Randis will strike at the Wolves soft underbelly of Autumn Wind and Rasalas. According to our reports these have been stripped of front-line troops it will send a clear message to Clan Wolf that we do not want them on our border.â€
“And finally by the end of this week the First Bowang Border Guards, the Ninth Tamarind Militia, Second Rim Guards and Gamma Regiment of the Wolf’s Dragoons will strike at Tamarind and Simpson Desert†General Trent Higall, a former Clan Nova Cat warrior himself, said.
“Why the delay our forces were to be in place to act within days of each other?†Joseph asked.
“We had a JumpShip carrying the Ninth Tamarind Militia’s BattleMechs and Infantry forces develop a jump drive problem.†Higall explained “the unit is operational once more.†He promised the Captain-General.
“What Capital assets have been assigned?â€
“The Wolf’s Dragoons vessel Athena, Tamarind’s Galisteo and Promised Land and the Bowang.†He said naming the four WarShips assigned to the battle the toughest part of that fight would be Tamarind which the Wolves were desperate to hold onto due to the shipyards there. Joseph had been tempted to authorize the Free Worlds League units to target the shipyards to break the resolve of the Clansmen but he knew it would damage his own people’s morale as well so had left it to the unit commander to choose for themselves.
“Very good to the Inner Sphere it will appear that we are helping the Lyrans stop Clan Wolf in its tracks in fact we will be testing a reborn Free Worlds League working as one collective unit. I have faith in our people and should this campaign bore the results we wish there will be more.†Joseph Marik said the Districts of Oriente, Gibraltar and Lesnovo had all called on the “united force of the reborn Free Worlds League†to fight their battles. By using units from across the nation Joseph planned to bind the people to each other but knew he’d have to pay a price for their help down the road.
By the end of the week the entire Wolf/Free Worlds League border was ablaze but not everything had gone as Captain-General Joseph Marik had hoped. The attacks on Autumn Wind, Rasalas, Tania Australis and Helm had been a stellar success with the Free Worlds League finding old warriors piloting vintage Star League-era BattleMech and armour designs defending the planet. By the time the Free Worlds League had pushed onto Bainsville and Gallatin they found the Wolves had already abandoned both worlds. Simpson’s Desert had followed the same routine lightly defended by old warriors. Stewart and Tamarind had been another story…
In the Stewart system the Free Worlds League forces jump in and encounter the Ward’s Legacy as expected. Supporting this McKenna-class WarShip are no fewer than ten Isegrim-class Pocket WarShips and hundreds of aerospace fighters. Supported by the Thessaly Battle Group the Free Worlds League regiments attempt to force their way through the Wolf vessels heading for the planet. While the Free Worlds League units had an advantage in numbers of aerospace fighters and their WarShips were good vessels in their own right but against the Ward’s Legacy and the Wolf DropShips they were in trouble. While the ground forces streamed towards Stewart the Ward’s Legacy opened up on them with its massed array of naval particle cannons and in the opening volley the Remember Stewart, a Zechitinu II-class Corvette, and two Leopard CV-class DropShips of the Arlington’s Angels Mercenary command were wiped out along with two DropShips of the Fusiliers of Oriente. Aerospace fighters from the Thessaly engaged the Ward’s Legacy at close range the Wolf Pocket WarShips and aerospace fighters tore into them at close range taking a heavy toll on the attackers. Allowing the DropShips to engage the aerospace fighters the Ward’s Legacy opened fire on the Thessaly with its particle cannons in the confusion of battle the Abbot, an Eagle-class Frigate, got caught in the crossfire and was split in half by the Ward’s Legacy’s fire. Even with the Abbot’s sacrifice several of the McKenna’s naval particle cannons struck the Thera-class Thessaly causing damage to its armour and forward launch bays. The damage to the Thessaly caused the Thera to pull back along with the Mordred, another Eagle-class Frigate, this allowed the Ward’s Legacy to roll out of combat and escape moving beyond Stewart. This withdrawal allowed the Fourth Marik Guards, the remains of the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente, the Daniel’s Avengers and the Graves’ Dancers to complete their transit to the planet. The Free Worlds League forces fought against the Wolves on Stewart for the remains of August and into September while the Ward’s Legacy, the Thessaly and Mordred danced around the planet attempting to engage each other. By the beginning of September the Free Worlds League forces withdrew from the planet the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente and the Graves’ Dancers completely destroyed, the remains of the Graves’ Dancers were folded into the Daniel’s Avengers with Captain Jean Graves and the survivors of her unit accepted as part of the command. Once clear of the system the remains of the Arlington’s Angels were also absorbed into the Free Worlds League Navy.
In the Tamarind system the Free Worlds League found a worse situation than that in the Stewart system. From the moment they emerged in the system on top of the Victoria Ward the invasion force was at a back food. The Victoria Ward, an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, had just arrived in the system and as soon as she detected the incoming forces the crew cut loose their jump said and manned their battle stations meaning she was ready for the arrival of the Free Worlds League units. As they entered the system the Victoria Ward concentrated on targeting the Galisteo and Promised Land, the two Unity-class Frigates, causing heavy damage to the two missile laden vessels as she withdrew deeper into the system. For their part the Free Worlds League WarShips and the Wolf’s Dragoons vessel Athena caused heavy damage to the Battle-cruiser all but stripping her of weapons along her port side while crippling or destroying all of her DropShip escorts and most of her aerospace fighters. This was however a small costly battle which won the Free Worlds League no control over the Tamarind system. From deeper in the system the Wolves second Battleship the Texas-class Nicholas Kerensky charged down on the incoming Free Worlds League units. From the command centre on board the WarShip saKhan Fredrick Ward declared the Free Worlds invasion force dezgra and promised their destruction if they remained. With half of their WarShips crippled and a fresh Battleship ready to enter the fray the Free Worlds League commander ordered their combined ground forces and mercenary support to withdraw leaving Tamarind in Wolf hands.
The woes for the Free Worlds League were not over with the failed assaults on Tamarind and Stewart however. Clan Wolf angered by the intrusion into their territory turned their next wave of attacks against the Free Worlds League. Unleashing their newly raised Epsilon Galaxy on the Free Worlds League worlds of Adhafera, Tania Borealis and Merak the Wolf force completely annihilated the Free Worlds League forces in those systems including the WarShip Voyager in the Tania Borealis system the Venturer-class Light Cruiser which was shattered by attacks from the Wolf Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser Jerome Winson and the Second Atrean Dragoons which were crushed by
From analysing the sensor logs taken from the WarShips in the Tamarind system the Free Worlds League’s SAFE Intelligence organisation were able to confirm that Clan Wolf had restored the Tamarind Shipyards to working condition and that they were building a new type of WarShip there which explained the presence of the Battleship and the saKhan. While on Tania Borealis intelligence officers identify several former-Free Worlds League citizens among the Wolf forces serving as warriors. The Intelligence operatives are able to positively show that these warriors in particular are responsible for executing nearly three quarters of the prisoners taken by the Wolves during the battle, while most others die from injuries sustained during the battle, it appears to SAFE that these members of Epsilon Galaxy feeling abandoned by the Free Worlds League have taken to the Clan indoctrination fully and embraced their new path as Wolves. These assaults put the Wolves within striking distance of Marik itself while the brutality, and the identity of some of their warriors, shock the leaders of the Free Worlds League.
Draconis Combine Assault
Buckminster, Orestes District
Rasalhague Dominion
19th August 3104
On the 19th of August two Draconis Combine units attack Buckminster and Port Moseby of the Rasalhague Dominion further adding to the contested zone located between the Draconis Combine, Rasalhague Dominion and Lyran Commonwealth. In the the Buckminster system, the DCS Matsu a huge Yamato class Battleship and her escorting Kyushu class frigate the Shimokita that was also carrying the Third Yokosuma SNLF with one hundred-and-eight Land Air Mech’s in her hangar.
The orbital battle did not last long, the few Dominion DropShips that were able to fight did so bravely but against the two WarShips and their fighters the fact that the Combine units would be reaching the planet was a foregone conclusion.
The battle on ground less so, the First Kalliveri and Twelfth Provisional Garrison Cluster of Omicron Galaxy instead opted to fight a defensive campaign as six DCMS JumpShips arrived in system and began landing troops.
With the orbital space secure the Shimokita deployed her massed LAM’s quickly securing the world’s main starport despite heavy resistance from the Twelfth PGC before it withdrew behind a shell of Solhama troops who fought until the very last.
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Four days later the Dominion’s reply arrived. Onboard the Shimokita the alert claxons were blaring across the ship, she was on the night side of Buckminster, her sensors relaying data down to the troops on the surface as an operation to secure a major dam and its associated relay stations was under way. Half the Third Yokosuma was on the surface, the others were in the frigates Mech bay’s being serviced and undergoing maintenance. The Special Naval Landing Force (SNLF) Regiments were a raiding force, a hammer that could come down behind hostile lines from orbit, not one built for sustained siege and assault operations, with half the Landing Force involved in the assault along with aerospace support victory was predicted within the hour.
Then the sensors registered a huge emergence bloom on the day side at the Pirate Point between the primary moon and Buckminster.
“Report.â€
“Sir! The Matsu reports a Leviathan II has just jumped in system and is moving to engage, Tai-Sho Kamimura requests we move to assist and engage.
Tai-sa Shigeto nodded as he strapped himself into his chair, glancing at the 3D holo map of the world. He had his two dropships with him, both Union X’s whilst the two supply ships were on the surface helping with the assault. Both Union’s were moving into flanking positions.
On the holo-map he could clearly see the huge red mass of the Leviathan and the smaller icons representing her eight escorts in a picture perfect escort formation as they moved towards the still distant Yamato class battleship that was coming about, both massive ships streaming fighters from their launch bays.
“Our fighter status?â€
“Six on-board and ready to go Sir, the Reaper and Tracer are both launching their fighters to add to our screen.â€
“Understood. Chu-Sa Rees, can you deploy your forces?â€
“All but four are ready to go, but without fighter cover a LAM is not much use in a naval battle.†The Yokosuma Regimental commander reported. It was a truth nothing more, LAM’s were at the mercy of any good fighter pilot, they were just too slow, and neither fish nor fowl in a true naval engagement like this.
“And how about a boarding action?â€
The Chu-Sa was silent for a moment, glancing at the data about the Leviathan as well as its escorts. “Punch us a hole through their screen and my men will rip that thing apart.â€
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“Sir all fighters are away, escort group one and two are in position.†The warrior at the tactical station reported glancing over at the Rasalhague’s commander.
“Very good, communications?†He said glancing at another member of the command crew.
“Aye Sir.â€
“Get me Star Colonel Nils Jorgenson.â€
A holo-display sprang to life, showing the face of the commander of the two hundred-and-fifty Elementals aboard the massive battleship.
“Star Colonel, have your troops prepare for a boarding action. It is my intent to disable the Dragon’s vessel and claim her for the Dominion.†He said confidently the Draconis Combine Battleship was an impressive vessel but it should be no match for the Rasalhague.
The dark skinned Elemental’s grin was almost feral and he saluted a clenched fist over his heart. “Aff Star Admiral!†He said eager to get into battle.
The holo in the command deck flicked off to be replaced by a smaller display of the system. A practiced eye told the Star Admiral that the Combine ship was taken by surprise by the Rasalhague’s arrival, they’d jumped in system early in the morning, and he could only guess they were on watch stations, not full battle stations. This was not a determent to the Combine vessel no crew could maintain full readiness at all times, how they conducted themselves in battle would show how competent the crew were.
“Have our fighter’s punch through their screen and eliminate her escorts, guns, target DropShips first and then give me a rolling broadside, target weapon systems and thrusters. Have Fang and Claw Star’s move to shield our bow.†He said hopefully if the Rasalhague continued to move the damage the Combine vessel did would not be concentrated in one location even if it did mean their fire would be less accurate.
A chorus of affirmatives rang out and were quickly relayed to the mass of fighters swirling round the battleship. The eight Vanir DropShips moving into position, a double layered arc across the battleships bow with a hundred miles between each ship, the DropShips forming a flak barrier three hundred miles in front of the Rasalhague as the fighters from both sides engaged.
Star Captain Victor grinned, rolling his shoulders, his Ostrogoth’s sensors showing the DCMS fighters up perfectly. They were wisely sticking with their dropships, which would mean a hard fight, but with only seventy-two fighters protecting her versus the three hundred from the Rasalhague the Dominion forces had the advantage in numbers as well as technology.
“Odin Binary, stick with your wingman and keep an eye on your sensors!â€
Victor was a Spheroid, the son of a Kungsarmee pilot who had fought against the Bears but he had not felt the animosity his father had and when he could he joined the Dominion’s military, his testing and Trial of Position netting him a prestigious berth aboard the huge Rasalhague. In the battle against the Snake’s he’d nearly lost his home and had been assigned to various Aesir class ships but had taken part in another Trial of Position when the Rasalhague was returned to service this time as a Star Commander. When with native Rasalhague citizens he spoke ‘normally’ but he could understand the Clan’s love of speaking ‘properly’ there was no ambiguity, and it made commands crisp and clear.
“Janice, you are with me, take formation on my port wing.â€
“Attention escort group Mauler, this is Galaxy Commander Johan Otiz, engage the fighters approaching on vector 097, Assault group Mangle will engage the DropShips Hanzo and Dragon’s wrath ensure they are not troubled whilst doing so.â€
“Aff Galaxy Commander! Mauler group, you heard him, for the Dominion!†The Combine escorts started blitzing laser and particle bolts as missiles flew between both formations, most missing thanks to the brutal ECM being pumped out, but some hitting with brief flashes and the occasional scream over the comm’s net as multi-tonne fighter became fireballs.
Mangle was one of the heavy hitting Trinaries, a mixture of Kirghiz and Hydaspes I and II assault boats, they were moving in tight formation noses and wings flaring as they volleyed missiles and barrages of laser and particle light at approaching targets. It was Mauler’s job to keep them alive so they could pound the Draconis Combine droppers into rubble.
“Mangle One! Yellow nosed bastards, six-o-clock high coming down now!â€
Victor grunted as he pulled the Ostrogoth into a hard turn, thrusters flaring as he swung the nose round as bolts of manmade lighting tore through where his fighter would have been. A snap roll brought him in behind his target, one of the DCMS’s new Koryosha class assault fighters, their hulls gleaming in the reflected light from the planet.
“Lock target.â€
“Target locked.†The fighter’s Bitching Betty dutifully replied, the Draconis Combine fighters were big and fast, his was faster, he had more thrust to spend and could turn sharper. The four Draconis Combine fighters split, two going to port, the others to starboard.
“Janice we’ll take the port pair, Torbyorn, Hudson, take the starboard!†As their ‘children dueled and danced the two massive mother-ships came into range, greeting each other with missile fire that for the most part was harmlessly deflected either by on-board Anti-Missile Systems and jamming or in the Rasalhague’s case by her flak screen.
The Matsu and Rasalhague opened fire at near the same moment as the range between the two slowly circling giants came down as both ships turned to bring their broadsides to bear. At these long ranges though the Leviathan had the advantage, her massed laser batteries were built with bracket firing in mind whilst the Matsu was built with mid-range brawling, relying on her armour to let her bully other vessels. Still the Combine’s ship had superb gunners and the latest firing systems allowing her to score hits with her lasers, gauss rifles and PPCs even as her flank was flayed by the Dominion vessels lasers and PPC’s.
---
As the battle raged between the two Battleships the DCS Shimokita moved into position at full burn, the 2.5g of sustained thrust was hard on her crew, but they knew even as the ship crested the North Pole of Buckminster that they had to get into battle.
“Begin...Declaration turn…attention all hands brace for sudden and immediate declaration!†Operating mainly under computer guidance the six hundred-and-thirty thousand tonne frigate spun about on her axis, her hull groaning under the stress of the high speed turn, engines flaring brightly as the fought against her momentum and inertia, the ship rattling from stem to stern for a moment before the heavy pressure of acceleration lifted somewhat. “Report!â€
“We’re in position Sir! And moving at 1g.†The helm operator reported happily.
“Damn fine navigation, sensors!â€
“The Mutsu’s fighter screen’s all but gone, five DropShips destroy…sorry, all six are gone the Red Dragon just caught a gauss slug.â€
“Sir! We’ve just been actively painted by the Rasalhague!â€
“Report on enemy ship!â€
“Damaged but operable, enemy DropShips are reacting to our presence.â€
“Too late, Chu-sa Reese, are your men prepared to do their duty?†He asked into the communication system.
“We’re always ready.†Came the muffled reply, the Lieutenant Colonel was joining his men; his personalized Screamer LAM would be the first out of the hangar.
“Good luck and fight well.â€
“And you my friend.†The Chu-sa replied the Third Yokosuma SLNF were permanently assigned to the Kyushu-class vessel the Regiment’s Mechs and their warriors were as much a part of the crew as anyone else.
“Sensors report.â€
“Sir we’re being painted, we’re in range… but they are not firing?†He said looking slightly confused an Inner Sphere enemy would be firing their weapons on an enemy as soon as they were in range.
“This Bear has some honour, on Terra in the age of sail; a large warship would not engage a lesser one unless fired upon. The greater vessel could defeat a smaller opponent with ease and it saved a simple slaughter.†He said explaining what was going on to his crew “he knows we can’t threaten him and he can reach out and destroy us at a moment’s notice. Signal the Reaper and Tracer, engage the enemy dropships. Launch the Third!â€
---
“Sir! Enemy frigate is launching fighters, count is at twenty… thirty… fifty!â€
“I gave them a chance…guns, destroy them. Get me an ID on the fighter type and get Fang and Claw to cover our rear.†Star Admiral Yanos Silva was frustrated, mostly at himself, he’d realized that he’d become fixated on the now wallowing Yamato as his fighters tore at its sides and rear, battering the proud ship again and again as his vessel’s weapons cut into its hull. He’d discounted the frigate. A small ship like that had no business challenging a battleship. Still it was only a distraction, soon they would be destroyed and then his Elementals could board the Matsu and claim her for the Dominion.
“Firing!†Even as the Shimokita turned to bring her long ranged broadside guns to bare the Leviathan spoke first, the massive Clan battleship not pulling its punches as enough firepower to flatten a city slammed into her bow and forward quarter.
The frigates Ferro-Aluminium armour initially held, but for a few seconds before the Clan’s bright blue lasers melted through and ripped into her interior. The PPC and gauss slugs were just the finishing touch as the Kyushu shuddered like a wounded beast, flame roaring through her interior, bulkheads melting under the onslaught of laser and particle fire before the gauss slugs impacted a few micro-seconds later and finished what the torrent of energy weapons had started. The bow section was sheared off, ripped and torn metal giving way, the frigate venting puffs of oxygen and fire into the void before her ammunition stores in the aft quarter detonated, shredding the doomed hulk in a white hot flash. But fifty-four LAM’s were thundering towards the Dominion battleship, bought time to get to full thrust and close the distance by the death of their mother-ship.
“Sir! Enemy craft are Land Air Mech’s!â€
“How many?â€
“All of them!â€
“Get our escorts back here now!†The Star Admiral snarled, looking at the prize he knew would soon be denied to him.
“Get Star Colonel Nils Jorgenson’s men out of the assault craft. Attention all hands! Prepare to repel boarders!†He commanded a LAM attached to the hull of a WarShip could do a lot of damage.
“Hit her upper hull and forwards quarter, if we can get into the DropShip collars we can cause some serious damage.†The Third was moving fast and hard, the Dominion DropShips were still out of position and the battleship was still firing on the Matsu, the Combine WarShip returning fire as best she could but was clearly in a bad way.
Still with several hundred kilometres to go the Bear ship was far from defenceless, her lasers started tracking, guided by her massively powerful sensors they started firing into the dispersed mass of Combine LAM’s. More often than not the class-55 naval lasers missed, leaving nothing but a bright after image in their target pilot’s eyes. But when one hit, a LAM simply ceased to be. Cored through by a weapon that could melt through a battleship’s armour with ease, the LAM’s protection was nothing.
Then the point defences opened fire. Layered LRMs, ATMs, lasers and PPCs which the LAM’s of the Third returned with gusto, but it was pinpricks against a giant, she was easy to hit, but Mech scale weapons barely scored the surface plating. The real damage the unit would do was if they could get on board.
“Decelerate…NOW!†Chu-sa Reese ordered the remains of his unit the Screamer lived up to its name as its power plant roared as it directed everything it had to the thrusters, the transformation mechanisms on the fifty-five tonne machine moving parts with precise grace and fluidity. Up ahead the Chu-sa could see his target, the huge flared dome of one of the dropship collars, rising over the Rasalhague’s back like a small hill. With the Screamer’s Mag-clamps active the Mech could only move at fifty-six kilometres per hour, but the system let him walk on the ships hull instead of having to risk jumping or crawling. Jumping would bring him into the arcs of the point defences and the scores across the Screamer’s chest told the Chu-sa he didn’t want to repeat that.
He’d seen three of his men, their machines wreathed in fire plunge into the hull of the Dominion warship, and around him he could see other Icons of friendly forces advancing on his position although it was worryingly few.
“If we can detonate the fuel supplies in the DropShip ports we can still win this. We need to get inside!â€
“Hai!â€
“CHARGE!†The Combine LAM’s advanced, firing at anything that looked important, silencing a few of the point defence batteries by snapping off gun barrels or smashing laser lenses, making their way along the upper hull before the hull shook and there was a scream.
---
“What the hell was that!?†The Rasalhague’s commander demanded
“Sir, the Huntsman reports they had a firing solution, one of their missiles just destroyed two enemy Mech’s.â€
“Those idiots! They put a hole in MY ship, get the escorts to cease fire before they do more harm than the enemy do! If they continue to fire they will face me in a Circle of Equals after this battle is over.†He snapped “helm!â€
“Aff Sir!â€
“Bring us to green 48, down ten degrees, finish that Combine ship now!â€
The Rasalhague slowly turned, bringing her fresh armour to bare along her undamaged flank, ignoring the twenty-two LAM’s crawling along her back like an elephant ignored flies. Her unengaged guns guzzled power from their reactors, lining up on the burning, listing Matsu.
---
“Elementals!†One of the LAM pilots called out a warning. Ahead of the survivors of the Third the huge docking collar doors to the cargo hangars were opening and Elementals were pouring out, jets flaring as they jumped down. A mix of Gnomes and Rogue Bears whilst heavier Golems crawled along the hull to take up firing positions aiming weapons at the Draconis Combine LAMs.
“Samurai of the Third…it has been my pleasure and honour to lead you, let’s make these Bear bastards bleed!†Chu-Sa Kyle Reece slammed his feet down on the Screamer’s jump pedals, the broad LAM thundering forwards on pillars of fusion fire towards the still open drop collar. He ignored the Mech’s alerts of inbound missiles, the thuds of impacts across its armour; all that mattered was the open iris. He saw the cockpit of his friend and Aide Sho-sa Elrik Nga ripped open by a Rogue Bear, a black painted brute with crimson painted hands and claws, the pelt of a Ghost Bear held on its shoulders like a cape. He didn’t see his friend get pulled from the cockpit and thrown into the vacuum of space, he was too busy concentrating on dodging gunfire.
The final challenge would be a two hundred meter climb that he KNEW would bring him into the line of fire of the battleships point defence guns but he had to try. A dorsal gauss rifle turret snapped round s its sensors picked up a target rising out of its dead zone against the hull. A quick IFF challenge let the gunners know they could fire. One slug missed, crushing a Gnome Elemental into paste against the hull of the Rasalhague. The other though did not miss, smashing into the Screamer’s right rear side, crushing through armour before ripping into the mountings of the LAM’s jump jets. The sudden loss of thrust threw the fifty-five tonne machine into a sudden left turn which Reese had no hope of correcting, not at this speed.
He smiled and closed his eyes as the Screamer rammed into the open docking port at hundreds of kilometres per hour. The wreck bounced off the hull, tumbling inside before it slammed into the gantry for one of the dropships loading mechanisms and finally exploded as the remaining fuel went up along with the ammunition for the Mech’s MML’s.
Heavy blast damage wrecked the gantry which fell across and into the open docking iris but with it being exposed to vacuum there was no fire.
As the Third died to a man the Matsu finally gave up to the inevitable. Angered at the boarding action the Dominion Star Admiral made sure the Combine ship was destroyed. With her engines wrecked and armour rent there was little the Combine ship could do apart from die valiantly, her few remaining active weapons firing fitfully under local control, still gamely scoring hits before a massed volley from the Rasalhague’s undamaged flank ripped into the Matsu’s lower belly. The ship did not die in an eye watering explosion as her primary reactors were hit, more by chance than skill, but starved of power and wracked with internal fires and whole sections open to space the Matsu died slowly as internal fire induced explosions finally broke her back and slowly broke the ship up spreading fragments of her across the system.
Many months later the wrecked hulk would be found but she was deemed beyond repair and instead was broken up for salvage.
A hundred and thirty of her crew were rescued along with eighty-two fighter and DropShip crew and pilots. There were no survivors from the DCS Shimokita or the Third Yokosuma. Later that day with the wounded Leviathan still in orbit, elements of the Eighteenth Battle Cluster and 297th Battle Cluster arrived in system to support their brothers on the ground finding a few survivors from the Sixty-ninth Provisional Garrison and the First Kavalleri Clusters which were folded into other commands. Even with space and air superiority the Rasalhague Dominion are not able to secure the remains of Buckminster until the end of August when the last elements of the Third Yokosuma SNLF and the Eleventh Legion of Vega Regiments were destroyed. The Rasalhague Dominion victory on Benjamin also cuts off DCMS troops on Port Moseby forcing them to withdraw from that system or face destruction at the face of the Wolves.
Pirate stronghold
Laterus, Periphery
21st August 3104
The First Robinson Strikers LCT and McKinnon’s Raiders Battalion of the AFFS hot dropped onto Laterus on the periphery of the Federated Suns Draconis March. For months DMI Agents had been working inside a pirate raider stronghold. Laterus was known for two things firstly the system had an extensive vane of Germanium, which is critical for the construction of K-F Drives and a toxic atmosphere. Fighting in the hostile environment casualties was high on both sides with each breach of a cockpit, armour or infantry suit causing a death. For nearly four hours the elite AFFS troops contest the world against the pirates before declaring victory with the complete destruction of the pirate forces.
DMI Border Raids
Capellan March, Federated Suns
24th August 3104
Duchess Jaylen Davion disappears from St Ives in the Capellan March. There is no indication of foul play only that the Duchess and her personal BattleMech, and bodyguard lance, are missing. Over the coming months the Department of Military Intelligence launch a series of raids against the Capellan Confederation, the Taurian Concordat and the Kittery Prefecture searching for First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion’s daughter but they find no sign of her. Many citizens of St Ives believe that she had gone looking for her missing husband Duke Tristen Allard-Liao however there is no proof either way Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao, the Duchess of St Ives, retreats further into her Palace on St Ives withdrawing her thirteen year old son Lucian from the school he attended so he could be taught privately in the palace on St Ives. This withdrawal from public life decimates St Ives’ and the Allard-Liao's reputation in the Capellan March.
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Time to move into September and firstly my thanks to the writing talents of James Tanaga who brings us some news from the Rim Collection
Medical Suite, President’s House
Gilfillan’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
1st September, 3104
Damien Redburn watched mournfully as Matthew said his final goodbyes to his lover, Victoria crying in his lap. Damien knew it wouldn’t be long now, eyeing the deathly pale form of Karen Able lying on the hospital bed. Ever since she had given birth to her still-born second daughter nearly a year ago, the Rim Collection’s president hadn’t been the same, both physically and mentally. Yet, the last two months she had seemingly returned to her old self.
That was until yesterday’s stroke, he thought mirthlessly to himself, as he watched the younger FedSuns sailor stroke the Rimmer’s hair, while surrounded by the few House Able members who were planet side. It happened while he and Matt were in an HPG conference with the Federated Suns Minister of Commerce and Trade concerning Rim Motors’ recent and very public proposal to forcibly merge the bankrupt Salvatore Incorporated into their growing portfolio.
By the time the two, along with Damien’s own wife and daughter, had arrived at the President’s House, they received the news. Karen Able, Fourth President of the Second Collection, was likely brain dead.
The surgery earlier only confirmed the diagnosis.
It was not his place to watch the final goodbyes of Karen’s loved ones, he judged, as he turned and left, softly closing the door, making his way out of the Medical Suite and into the President’s House proper. His mind wondered as he effortlessly made his way through the residential complex.
“Even heaven weeps for her,†the voice of his daughter jerked him from his thoughts. He found himself standing out on a balcony, soaked, as the rain continued to pour. He shook his head.
“That it does, Brienne. That it does,†he answered before turning to face his seventeen-year old daughter. Studying her face, he knew.
Karen Able was dead.
Hours later, news of Karen Able’s death reverberates throughout the Rim Collection and into Lyran Commonwealth.
Water Gardens
Hiberius, Rim Collection
Periphery
2nd September, 3104
Congresswoman Megan Hall lay in the hot sands of Hiberius, watching the young children play in the Water Gardens as she enjoyed bathing in the sun. A year ago, she had surrendered her chance to become the rightful president against that toerag tyrant, Karen Able. All for the good of Hiberius and the Rim Collection, she allowed the Able to become the president, trusting in the mighty Mandrills to keep her in check.
And now, with the toerag’s opportunistic death, she had a choice. Support the President’s Council, filled with Able lackeys, and support their decision to make little Victoria Able in becoming the next President and destroy democracy as it stood in the Rim Collection. Or she could lead the charge to Gillfillan’s Gold and forcibly push for real democracy onto the Rim Collection. Something she knew the Old Man would have supported, ironically enough.
They had no love of one another, but she knew the toerag’s father had loved democracy as much as she, if not more so. But to act on this, she would risk the full might of the Mandrills. Their ire on her was not something she wanted, but if she could act quickly, she could force it down even their throats as a fait accompli. That is if she acted quickly in securing the President’s Council and the young Victoria Able…
She mused for another hour on the situation before nodding to herself. Her choice made and now she need to only throw in her dice.
Border fighting
Addicks, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
10th September 3104
After the fighting on the Capellan Confederation’s border Prince Burton Davion continues to play the “Warrior Prince†like Davion Princes of history wading into the fighting on the Draconis Combine border defending the world of Addicks from a raid. The Prince does not shy away from battle instead standing in front of the DCMS raiders protecting the people of Addicks despite the danger. Burton Davion’s Templar III takes heavy damage while defeating three enemy BattleMechs and two tanks.
Subtlety (McKenna MOD-class Battleship)
Regulus, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
11th September 3104
The Subtlety Profitable College of Military Arts arrives in the Regulus system and is escorted in by Regulan assault DropShips. Arriving over Regulus in the early morning of the sixteenth the Subtlety’s commander was invited to the planet’s surface. Over the course of the day Captain William Leroy-Deitrich and his crew were treated to tours of the training facilities on Regulus and dinner with Prince Lester Cameron-Jones and his family. Unsurprisingly, like Oriente and Canopus, the leadership on Regulus attempted to convince the Subtlety’s commander that Regulus was the home the Battleship and its attached College were looking for. Like the previous systems Captain Leroy-Deitrich refused the offer to remain permanently in the Regulus system instead agreeing for the training college to remain in the District of Regulus until the end of the year. During this time the Subtlety Profitable College of Military Arts works extensively with the people of Regulus inviting trainees from across the District on board the ship.
Take Over
Promised Land, District of Gibraltar
Free Worlds League
15th September 3104
For years the people of Promised Land had been ridiculed and discriminated against by the people of the Free Worlds League. Due to the planet’s high gravity and the use of genetic engineering to help the population resist the problems it causes on the health of a human body people from Promised Land were often depicted in entertainment vids and stories as being like the hunchbacked goblin creatures of nightmares. Exports from Promised Land were often charged at a higher rate while the Free Worlds League was happy to use the space stations in the system as trade points between other systems due to the low duty charges.
While appearing to be a loyal world of the District of Gibraltar the government of Promised Land had long been in talks with the Lyran Commonwealth negotiating the system’s path into House Steiner. Finally the time was right with support from the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser the LCS Mitchell Simons the Thirty-second Lyran Guards RCT moved into the system. There they found elements of the Twelfth Tamarind Militia and the Galisteo, a Unity-class Frigate, which had recently been damaged fighting Clan Wolf in the Tamarind system.
With Promised Land transmitting the systems immediate and unconditional surrender to Lyran forces, the overwhelming firepower the LCAF had brought to bear and a promise of free passage to any other Free Worlds League system the Galisteo and the Twelfth Tamarind Militia both agreed to leave without a shot being fired. With fighting still occurring on several worlds along the Clan Wolf border the Free Worlds League knew that contesting the system would be a drain on resources they did not need; and considering the contempt many felt for Promised Land and its population of genetically engineered abominations most were happy to see the back of the system.
Unlike the Free Worlds League the new occupiers of Promised Land welcomed the system with open arms allowing the planetary leaders to rule their world as they choose. Instead of garrisoning the planet and keeping a close eye on the newly occupied system the Lyrans instead garrisoned the space stations at the Zenith and Nadir Points securing access to the system and the space station construction facilities that were Promised Land’s main export.
Glengarry Medical Facility
Glengarry, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
18th September 3104
Baroness von Glengarry Dana Carlyle looked over at her newly born twins as they lay in their cots sleeping peacefully. As she did Siobhan McCall entered giving her a small smile Siobhan was the granddaughter of Davis McCall, a famous warrior of Grey Death Legion fame, Siobhan was an accomplished warrior and was one of the Legionaries who had refused to join the unit when Dana sold the Legion to the Brewer Family. Most of the warriors like Siobhan had already left but she’d remained choosing to attaché herself to the Carlyle Family Guard, a non-existing unit before Dana sold the Legion but one that now stood at a full combined arms Battalion in strength. “How you doing?†She asked approaching the bed
“I’m good†Dana said in truth she was more tired than she had ever felt “they fought their way out just like wolves.†She said looking over at the twins.
“Have you thought of names?†Siobhan asked moving over to the cots looking over at Dana’s son and daughter.
“Vlad and Marialle†she said bringing a surprised glance from Siobhan which brought a smile to Dana’s face. “They are Marc’s children he was a member of the Ward Bloodhouse it honours him.â€
“Do you know if Marc’s unit has been involved in the fighting?†The young warrior asked even though the Wolves had been attacked by the Free Worlds League recent reports suggested that Clan Wolf units had now struck at the Lyran worlds of Remulac and Savannah. Initial indicators were that the Wolves would secure both worlds from the Isle of Skye militia forces that had been left to defend them. If the Clan was successful the two conquests would place Clan Wolf’s border directly against Star League held territory which would no doubt bring further heavy fighting. Glengarry was fortunately far from any hostile borders.
“I don’t think so†Dana said she wasn’t sure exactly but she thought that Marc’s unit was still on Solaris VII. With the Solaris Games ongoing she hoped that his unit were still defending the Wolves who were taking part in the competition.
“Well at least these two are little more peaceful than their namesakes†she said looking down at the two babies.
“For now†Dana said she was better at being a doctor and a scientist than a warrior she hoped Vlad and Marialle followed her example instead of that of their father, Dana’s own parents or her grand parents.
LaGrange Points
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
21st September, 3104
The JumpShips carrying the First and Second Rim Guards CCT’s jumped into the system and immediately disgorged their DropShips and fighters as they race to the surface. On planet, the Rim Watch and the Rim Lancers act immediately, shepherding Victoria Able and her father to the Federated Suns embassy and promptly go into defensive positions around the complex.
Simultaneously, on Hiberius, the Third Rim Guards CCT launch an assault on the Rim Lancer positions, causing a three-way battle to break up as Fire Mandrills are forced to interfere.
Meanwhile, a plea for aid is sent out to all Rim Collection units and Clan Fire Mandrill to come to Victoria Able’s aid on Gilfillan’s Gold. Able Loyalist forces throughout the Collection begin working with one another to begin building a relief force, much to the ire of the Mandrills.
Launching ceremony
Bradford Memorial Shipyards, Coventry
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd September 3104
The first ship to be launched from the Bradford Memorial Shipyards of Coventry slowly slipped out of its berth into open space for the first time. The LCS Thomas Fredrick Bradford was the first example of a new class to join the Lyran Commonwealth navy. For inspiration the designers at the Bradford Memorial Shipyards had looked into the past with their new class basing the design on the Commonwealth Light Cruiser of the Star League-era. Like the Robinson or Davion classes fielded by the Federated Suns the “new†Commonwealth was a modern interpretation of the classic design which made the most of new technology while playing on the strengths of the original design.
External observers on the Commonwealth class suspect that the Lyrans will add the Light Cruiser design to their current Battle Groups and expand the number of escorts attached to their Mjolnir-class Battle-cruisers. Observers also note that while the the Commonwealth is not the Battleship that the Lyran Commonwealth need to combat the Battleships fielded by Clan Wolf and Clan Jade Falcon.
Border fighting
Federated Suns
25th September 3104
Following the release of the Sixth Edition of the Unfinished Book, which has been named the Remembrance due to the influences of the Clans, Clans Snow Raven, Nova Cat and surprisingly Sea Fox all engage in fighting along the borders of the Federated Suns. While the battle against Clan Sea Fox is a simple honour duel between two warriors on Spica the fighting with the other Clans escalates rapidly with Clan Nova Cat seizing control over the system of Rentz while in one of their raids Clan Snow Raven’s Montbatton spars with the Federated Suns WarShip FSS Sword and Sun in the Bryceland system. The recently launched Mercury-class Battleship is more than a match for the Texas-class Battleship and both commanders are aware of each ship’s capabilities instead of the two WarShips battering each they agree to a series of honour trials.
During one such battle former Snow Raven leader Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion takes part in an aerospace fighter duel. The former Khan’s presence on board the Sword and Sun had been kept secret before the battle however in her battle piloting a seventy ton Cutlass Aerospace Fighter shows that her skills have not diminished during her time outside of active combat service. Following the trials the commanders of the two WarShips agree to give each other’s crews a look inside each others WarShips and DropShips with both sides exchanging their thoughts on each of their vessels. Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion’s presence is not too much of a problem for the Ravens as the Montbatton was the former Khan’s personal WarShip during her time as Khan. After nearly a week in the Bryceland system the Montbatton leaves Federated Suns space returning to the Raven Alliance.
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This update was originally smaller before James Tanaga got into it :D my thanks to a superb story line affecting the Rim Collection and Clan Fire Mandrill. With the ultimate curve-ball being thrown and me not seeing it until it happened
Also this month had one or two changes as I approached it
Originally a Succession Lord passed over leadership then delayed it
Then an heir to a Succession Lord died then I dropped it
Then the Ravens did something but that's been delayed too
Outskirts of Federated Suns Embassy Complex
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
3rd October, 3104
Galaxy Marshal Mandy Hall forced herself to keep from cursing in front of her troopers. On paper, her Guards’ were in an excellent position. The Rim Lancers and Rim Watch forces were surrounded and unable to escape. Moreover, they were positioned in an opened area, easy pickings for artillery units. And the best part? Her Guards’ had total aerial supremacy.
But in the field, that piece of advantage was only as good as a piece of toilet paper, for the Lancers had pulled a rabbit out of their hat and picked to defend the ONLY complex which she absolutely refused to use artillery and air support on. The Federated Suns embassy.
It gnawed at her, even while she reluctantly admitted the genius behind it. Attack it and the embassy security personnel would be “forced†to come to the defense of the Rim Lancers. It would also put Mandy Hall at odds with the Federated Suns and by extension the Star League Defence Force. Something she and her fellow warriors were loathed to do.
Yet it also meant the Lancers couldn’t attack as well, for it meant it would force her hand and order the attack. And so an unspoken agreement between the Rim Guards and the Rim Lancers had been formed.
And it unfortunately meant the Lancers were slowly winning, for two reasons. While her units were stuck here keeping the Rim Lancers from escaping, it meant Gilfillan’s Gold militia units were staging attacks on much-needed logistical and security needs in the capital. And second, far more importantly, it meant the much needed quick victory Megan Hall needed had evaporated, giving time for the Mandrills to answer the Lancers plea for aid.
And when that happens, Mandy thought disgusting, I will be forced to recall my forces and withdraw from Gilfillan’s Gold. The only bright side so far was two-thirds of the President’s Council and three-fourths of the Rim Congress were being held prisoner by her forces. That was something at least, at the very least they were a good bargaining chip.
For now, she resolved to keep her watch on the embassy, for it was all she and her forces could do. For now.
RCT Firebase Lost
Lost, Rim Collection
Periphery
6th October, 3104
Natasha Faraday studied the latest report from Gilfillian’s Gold with a scowl on her face. Heavy fighting had finally erupted around the FedRats compound between the Rim Guards and the outnumbered Rim Lancers upon the arrival of Lancer reinforcements into the system. The whole situation was rapidly escalating. She decided it was time for her clans’ response.
Getting up, she made her way through the Rim Collection Touman base on Lost to the comm center. There, she nodded to the Rim Ranger manning the HPG station. “All channels,†she announced as she folded her hands into her chest and gave her deadliest glare where she knew the holo-camera was.
Moments later, the technician nodded back, signaling to her she was on. “This is Khan Natasha Faraday of Clan Fire Mandrill. I regret to inform the Collection that heavy fighting between the Able and Hall factions within the Collection has finally broken out on Gilfillian’s Gold.â€
She ignored the sounds of sucking of hair of those in the room as she continued. “In accordance with our agreement to defend the Collection from any threats, I am ordering Clan Fire Mandrill forces to intercede in this conflict and bring both sides to the table. All Rim Collection forces are ordered to remain at their posts during this time. Any and all who do not will be seen as enemies until this conflict has ended.â€
She visibly sighed as she closed her eyes for a moment then continued to look at the camera, her glaze softening. “Clan Fire Mandrill will do what we must to bring peace back to the Collection, but that does not mean we will act as tyrants. We will not trample on your homes or rights as Collection citizens. You yourselves will be the ones to judge those who are attempting to force civil war within the Collection, not us. Nor will martial law be enacted all across the Rim Collection.
“I ask all citizens and civilians in the Collection to go about their lives. For those on Hiberius and Gilfillian’s Gold, I ask you to stay inside if you can and if not, to avoid the conflict zones. Clan Fire Mandrill will work to mitigate civilian losses, but cannot promise Able or Hall supporters will do the same.
“Finally, to our enemies and neighbors across our borders, I ask only this one question. Do you REALLY want to anger Clan Fire Mandrill? If you do, I invite you into the Collection. If you are smart, stay OUT of the Collection. Natasha Faraday from Lost signing off.â€
Thirty minutes after her speech, Clan Fire Mandrill forces, under the command of saKhan Jonathan Banacek jump into Gilfillian’s Gold, beginning a cat and mouse game with Robin Michaelson’s Fourth Rim Lancers CCT and other Lancer reinforcements as both proceed to the planet at their quickest pace.
Greene
Timbuktu, Rim Collection
Periphery
11th October, 3104
Leonard Stewart sat watching the ongoing news like a hawk. At the moment, Clint Goldberg of INN was reporting from Gilfillan’s Gold on the now-three way conflict between the Lancers, Guards, and Mandrills. Curiously, his segment for today was on the newer equipment being seen in the conflict, particularly the Lancers and Mandrills.
“Those Snow Fox designs the Lancers are using go hand in hand with our stealth armor beautifully,†his daughter commented ask she drank a cup of tea.
“They’re all just one design, Rowena,†answered her brother, Karl, the design should have been in different configurations to make the most out of it. “Nice to see the Lancers made the Snow Fox into an actual OmniMech though.â€
Leonard nodded at that. It was both nice and terrifying to see, for while it meant good things for the Collection itself, it meant his House was now in a tougher position within the nation. Something he long sought to remedy, but currently couldn’t.
“What do you make of that,†he asked his son as he nodded to the screen, where a small four-legged Mechs stood atop a hillside, the eye and pyramid of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga on the left shoulder and the Fire Mandrill on the right showing where its loyalty stood.
“Some kind of knew ultra-light Mech maybe,†he answered. “Or possibly a new ProtoMech. The journalist reported it as belonging to a point of Amarok’s. Capabilities are unknown, though the journalist reported it was singularly guarding the Mandrill flanks from power armor forces, suggesting it’s likely a power armor killer.â€
Leonard nodded at his son’s answer. He was the most technically gifted of those in the room. Then another ‘Mech caught his eye as it entered the screen, causing his daughter to whistle.
“I wonder where the Monkeys were hiding those,†she commented as the camera concentrated on the lumbering BattleMech. Leonard noted the biped BattleMech dwarfed many of the nearby Mechs as the camera zoomed out to show the others.
“They’re Kirghiz-G’s,†Karl informed them. “Weapon schemes of the Kirghiz put on a one hundred ton ‘Mech. Slower than most other Collection BattleMechs, but should be perfect for the Assault clusters. Khan Showers refused to allow Armory Gamma to build them for some unknown reason. Wasn’t expecting to see one for a while.â€
“Just like she refused to build those,†Rowena pointed to two lighter OmniMechs in the frame.
Leonard caught his son’s shadow shrugging. “Crimson Langurs I think she refused them while they still had Armory Beta. The Langurs seem a bit specialized in comparison to the Shadow Cats they are now replacing.†He said the Mandrills changed what they produced more regularly than any Inner Sphere nation he had ever seen. There were more than thirty Shadow Cats in the Mandrill Touman but now it appeared the Clan wished to add another design at the expense of further Shadow Cats.
“Not like they’ve much a choice. The Mandrills rather build ‘Mechs from their own factories then get replacements from those they don’t,†Rowena replied nastily.
Leonard understood all too well why. The Mandrills had all but turned their noses on the fifty ton Ghost BattleMech the Stewarts had offered. At least their Khan had given the diplomatic answer of her Mandrills preferring OmniMechs to specialized BattleMechs. In their small Touman an OmniMech while more expensive was more useful to the Clan. Polite way of telling them to go to hell, he thought, though Leonard smartly kept that thought to himself.
Then the next video clip shook him. In the middle of Rim Guards’ Clints, Stingers, and Commandos, an Uziel BattleMech stood out. “That’s unexpected,†Rowena expressed.
The view of the fifty ton Uziel made Leonard Stewart think. Perhaps it was time for his family to intercede. “Wade,†he called out to his quiet son, who leaned against the wall behind the three. “Contact Caldarium and tell them I need to speak to the Rim Assault CCT’s commander.â€
His two legitimate children turned towards him, judging by their shadows, as he heard Wade leave the room. “We don’t have enough forces alone to do anything,†Rowena answered, demanding he answer their unasked question.
“Alone, no, but if we unite with the Rim Assault CCT and other units, we might be able to send an ad hoc force the Mandrills would appreciate.â€
“Thereby raising our standing even further,†she responded the Stewart family had fallen a long way to have to try and impress one of the Clans.
“Exactly,†he answered simply, smiling as the three again watching the news program.
Lyran Offensive
Dixie Theatre, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
18th October 3104
In an attempt to break Clan Wolf’s offensive into the Isle of Skye Lyran Commonwealth units and the mercenary commands Rubinsky’s Light Horse and Blackledge’s Iron Hand strike at Hyde, Lauram, Arcadia and Gienah. On Hyde the Twenty-fourth Lyran Guards RCT found the 271st Assault Cluster of Clan Wolf. Despite it being a veteran command the Wolf Cluster was no match for the numbers the Lyrans employed against them. Despite the odds the Wolves continued to resist the Lyrans for eight days before the last Clan forces were disabled or destroyed.
The Rubinsky’s Light Horse and Blackledge’s Iron Hand mercenary units move on Arcadia despite their dislike for each other the two units work seamlessly together on the planet’s surface outflanking the Wolves Twentieth BattleMech Cluster forcing the Wolves into retreat. Following the battle the two mercenary commands come close to brawling over their salvage claims and are only held apart by the commands of their liaison officers.
Both Arcadia and Gienah are found to be abandoned by Clan Wolf which has shifted its defences towards other fronts. On Gienah the Lyran forces find Gienah Automotives has been completely razed by the Wolves its civilian vehicle construction and primitive BattleMech facilities in ruins. Gienah’s economy had long been based on the economy of the worlds around it and while the Lyrans find that the Wolves did not intentionally harm the planet or its people they find that Clan Wolf’s restrictions of inter-planetary movement and trade has completely destroyed business on the planet. Of the nine hundred thousand population recorded before the Clan Wolf occupation of the system only three hundred thousand people remain the others distributed among the other worlds of Clan Wolf’s claimed territory. The Lyrans find that the Wolves withdrawn much of their border units to support their drive towards Terra as if to reinforce the point Clan Wolf launches attacks on Cheretan, Dubhe and Wing. The Lyran and SLDF defenders on the planet are able to force back back the Clan forces but their intent is quite clear.
With Gienah’s economy compromised by its occupation the population on the planet continue the exodus. In the space of a year by the end of 3105 the Gienah system’s population is reduced to a mere tens of thousands and is removed from most cartography maps.
Trials of Possession
Clan Coyote Occupation Zone
21st October 3104
Fighting erupts in the Clan Occupation Zones as Clan Coyote engage Clan Hell’s Horses in several Trials of Possession. The two Clans fight in adherence to Zellbrigen minimizing the damage done to both Clans. By the end of the year Clan Coyote has seized control over Skokie, Severn, Blota, Rastaban, Wheel and Orkney from the Hell’s Horses. The Horses do not counter-attack against the Coyotes instead they rotate their units through other systems training them against the established Horde Clusters as the Horses continue their training in the Mongol Doctrine.
Gold Mountains
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
23rd October, 3104
Jonathan Banacek grinded his teeth as he pushed forward his old Blood Asp. His forces, eight clusters of Mandrills, were locked in the middle of a three-way battle. To their flanks lay the shattered Lancers; in front, the battered Rim Guards. His forces had finally done it, but at a horrible price. One in three of his Warriors were either dead or combat-ineffective.
Worse, the Mandrills had battled up from the ravines, where artillery fired down upon them. Only the fact Robin Michaelson of the Lancers was now dead had allowed Banacek and his forces to slowly and painstakingly take the upper-hand as the Lancers were hit from both sides at once, eventually being pushed to both his flanks.
Another hit from a large laser reminded him the battle needed to end and end soon. Otherwise, the Collection’s and Mandrill enemies would begin to circle. Once again he cursed in rage at the stupidity of Natasha Faraday, who refused to take the obvious route to victory in allowing his forces to wait until both sides had exhausted themselves. Instead, she demanded he lead the forces in charging headlong into the fight.
The Collection would remember the day the Mandrills answered their call for peace, she had said at the time. And Banacek well knew riots for peace were happening all over the Collection in response to Natasha’s speech the Khan had really roused the freeborns with her words. But was it enough? That was the million-Kerensky question, he judged.
His radio erupted to life. “SaKhan, the Guards have entered the Embassy! Repeat! The Rim Guards are targeted the embassy!†Star Colonel Yu Nevversan reported. “The ambassador is leading his Rats and holding the Guards at bay for the moment.â€
Jonathan cursed into his radio before sighing. “Deploy your Makos into the embassy. And help Redburn’s Rats.†The last he added as an afterthought.
He heard his subordinate cursed, then a sharp click. Both men well knew what the order meant. Yu Nevversan’s Makos, the sole Fire Mandrill unit Jonathan held in reserve, would soon be dropping into combat, task to safeguard Victoria Able at all costs. Jonathan knew the Makos would sustain heavy casualties, but Makos were known to accomplish the impossible. He only hoped he wasn’t wasting their lives.
The response to their communications was immediate with the Makos' Fortress-class DropShip diving down over the battlefield. The DropShip which had remained in orbit had been ready to deploy at a moments notice and that moment was now swooping down over the battlefield its engine flares blasting up a massive amount of dust as it came in low over the ground troops. From their elevated position the DropShip’s gunners expertly targeted hostile units below with autocannons, missiles and lasers as the craft's pilot moved into position over the Embassy. From the DropShip's cargo bays BattleMechs and Battle Armour troopers threw themselves into the battle below several of the elite Fire Mandrill warriors firing their weapons as they fell. Almost as quickly as the DropShip had arrived the craft's engines flared and she was gone accelerating back into the night's sky. The battle to hold the Embassy would take its toll on the Makos but of all the Mandrill units in the area they were the ones to hold the line; perhaps even more so than either of the Khan's Keshiks.
Six hours later, as he led his Keshik and elements of the Second Battle CCT and the Sixth Mandrill Militia into an attack on Third Rim Guards positions, his radio erupted to life. “All forces currently fighting on and in space around Gilfillian’s Gold, this is Khan Natasha Faraday.†Natasha? Here?! What the hell!
“I bring with me forces from all across the Collection. From Timbuktu and Caldarium. From the Trinity Worlds and Waypoint. From Wiltshire and Qurayyat. We are ALL here to end the fighting on Gilfillian’s Gold, one way or another. All non-Mandrill forces are ordered to cease and desist and to stand down. This is your one chance to remain Warriors of the Collection after this. This is Natasha Faraday out.â€
Jonathan shook his head and frowned. Diplomacy had no part of the battlefield. But oddly, slowly, but surely, as Natasha’s adhoc force began to make their way planet side, Lancers not trapped in the embassy begun to steadily withdraw from the battlefield.
Yet, he grimly noticed the Guards begun to pull back as well. Not off the battlefield as he at first expected. No, he realized those his units were facing now fighting on the defense. And he knew why.
Victoria Able.
Their mission was to hold his and Natasha’s forces off while their compatriots fighting in the Embassy could capture the young Collection heir. And because of that, instead of doing the smart thing and allow his forces to wait until Natasha’s reinforcements arrived, he instead kept them engaging the Guards. His honor demanded that much.
Press Offic, AFFS Command
Robinson City, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Suns
24th October 3104
Around the room half a dozen reporters stared into their cameras as they tried to compose their messages to the people of the Federated Suns. Bernie Michaels was one such reporter and he could barely believe what he was about to say looking into the camera he took a second to compose himself and then spoke.
“Ladies and Gentlemen†he said “initial reports from Addicks have filtered through to us here on Robinson that Prince Burton Davion has been shot and killed fighting against the Draconis Combine.†He said breathing deeply “Prince Davion had been fighting against the DCMS for the last two weeks and it now appears…†suddenly behind Bernie Michaels the doors sprung open and a sweating bedraggled looking man in AFFS uniform burst into the room.
“He’s alive!†The officer shouted out for all of them to hear “Burton Davion is alive! He’s been evacuated from Addicks and is on his way to a medical facility on Tikonov†the officer explained “the initial message from Addicks appears to have been a plant set by drac spies!†He said breathing deeply trying to catch is breath. Bernie Michaels turned back towards the screen.
“Ladies and gentlemen I apologize for my previous statement it appears to have been in error. Prince Burton Davion is alive it appears that he is on his way to Tikonov to recover from his injuries.†He said “it has been confirmed that over the last week DCMS forces have attacked Ingress, Deneb Kaitos, Towne and Murchison. Although authorities on Robinson have refused to acknowledge it if the fighting continues we will be in a defacto state of war with the Draconis Combine.
Federated Suns Embassy
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
26th October, 3104
Damien Redburn piloted his Templar through the battle, his face in a permanent grimace. He was proud of his staff. When the Rim Guards finally attacked three days ago, they had gone above and beyond his expectations, fighting off the best the Rim Guards until help had arrived.
But the cost had been great to the embassy’s security team and those aiding them. Before the battle, it consisted of two companies of BattleMechs, a conventional infantry company, and a platoon of Sniper Suit battle armor. This number was aided by Redburn’s eighty-five ton Templar OmniMech, DMI Agent Winters in her Enforcer III, and, lastly, Damien’s own daughter piloting Karen Able’s own Dire Wolf.
Now, after three days of combat, a mere six Mechs of that number were still standing. He thanked God his daughter was one of them; in fact he knew the Dire Wolf was in the best shape of the forces he led in the embassy. And judging by his scanners, he knew Star Colonel Yu Nevversan’s Makos were just as beat up.
How they had not been overrun until now was beyond him, but he knew this time there was no way they could stop the battered Rim Guards, even as he tore apart a Rim Guards Partisan tank with his three Rotary AC/2 cannons. On his sensors, he idly noticed his daughter destroying an enemy Clint even as she began facing a Firestarter OmniMech.
He shook his head as he continued his way through the battlefield, targeting a Merkava tank. Trust the Monkeys to “gift†Hiberius with that design after salvaging it from the Lyrans during the Kwangjong-ni debacle. Still, the workhorse OmniMech was downright dangerous in the hands of the Rim Guards, a fact he well knew. He forced himself to abandon watching his daughter and concentrate on destroying the Merkava heavy tank he was currently engaging.
An obsolete design, it was still very much deadly in the hands of the Hiberians. A fact well -earned since the Hiberians began their invasion on Gilfillan’s Gold. Only their Firestarters, Kangas, and Maxims were much of a threat on the common battlefield usually, yet teamwork had made their obsolete designs come through for them. If he lived through this battle, he resolved to give a dissertation at NAIS on the Hiberians tactics.
A moment later, he came out of his thoughts as the Merkava he was dueling with was suddenly destroyed by concentrated fire. Not from the air, as he expected, but from the ground.
Glancing down on his scanners, he couldn’t believe what he saw. Turning his mech around, he finally allowed himself to sigh in relief, as his radio erupted to life with cries of joy.
There, a Fire Mandrill Blood Asp stood, with more BattleMechs, OmniMechs, armor, and power armor units pouring around the OmniMech. Judging by the mechs and armor, it could only be Task Force Determination, as the forces saKhan Jonathan Banacek of the Fire Mandrills lead were called. His guess was soon proven correct a moment later as the Mandrill’s junior Khan’s voice piped into his radio.
“Ambassador, as soon as we secure the embassy, get moving to the rear! Star Colonel Spencer Douglass and his Fourth Assault Cluster will escort you out.â€
“Agreed!†He answered back. Soon, the embassy was secured and he stood guard as Rim Watch personnel quickly scurried Matthew Davion and Victoria Able and other embassy occupants from the hidden bunker into waiting armored vehicles belonging to the ad hoc Fourth Assault Cluster.
It gnawed at him how quickly Khan Natasha Faraday and the Rim Collection had mobilized the forces she led here. A star from one unit, a point from another. A trinary here, a supernova there. The Collection couldn’t redeploy cluster level units beyond the Khan’s own Keshik and the Mandrill forces already on planet.
The solution? Ingenious! Or so he thought. Create ad hoc clusters from several different units, with those belonging to the same CCT or galaxy serving together to quickly form units that could operate well enough together in combat without overly weakening their home units for the short time they were needed elsewhere.
It came to him then, just after he gave the order for the convoy to move behind the Collection front line and finally into safety. The Khan had sacrificed her own Monkeys for the good of the Collection. Instead of allowing her Clan to become the predominant military power, she instead chose to keep the balancing act within the Collection’s military intact.
But why?
He shook his head. All he knew was that the Fire Mandrill Khan had thrown a giant curveball into what was expected of her. And it was something the First Prince needed to know as quickly as possible.
President’s House
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
30th October, 3104
Damien leaned against the back of his chair, deep in thought, as he and the Fire Mandrill Khans awaited HPG connection to be established. The junior Khan acted every bit a former Star Adder Damien expected to be highly practical and very strategic.
The senior Khan, Natasha Faraday, on the hand, he couldn’t figure out, except she was determined to throw curve-balls around. The last was just the biggest of them all, for all he was concerned.
“I still do not agree with your actions lately, Khan†he heard the younger man mutter to the young woman. “Still, I do understand them.â€
“If you understand, yet do not agree with them, will you demand a Trial of Grievance as is your right,†he heard the younger woman queried back.
“Neg,†was the junior khan’s answer. “Though I may not agree with your actions in weakening the Clan, they do serve in strengthening the Collection,†Jonathan added.
“Doesn’t make sense to me,†Damien muttered loudly.
“But it does, Freeborn,†the saKhan answered him. “That dezgra Mandy Hall,†he all but spat the name, “executed nearly the entire President’s Council and a good portion of the Rim Congress during the Rim Guards occupation of this world. And while my Khan may be popular enough to become the next President, she resolves herself to not take the position, thereby continuing what she believes to be the much needed balancing act of keeping Clan Fire Mandrill subservient to the Collection.â€
He shook his head. He didn’t believe it still even three days after the battle had finished when Mandy Hall had finally surrendered. Why a Clanner, whose loyalty should be with her own Clan, instead chose to strengthen the Collection was beyond him.
Just as it was beyond him by her very recent decision to instead nominate the “hero of the hour,†as the Rim Press was calling him these past few days, as the next President of the Rim Collection. “I doubt my sire will agree to this,†he answered back, bringing them back to the matter at hand.
“You could say no,†was the young woman’s simple response.
He grunted. “Unfortunately for me, I have begun seeing the Collection as my home away from home.†He caught her small smile as he continued on. “Any plan on what to grant the Able-loyalists? From my view, the Hiberians may have lost the battle, but won the war in getting me President.†He said seeing the two skeptical look on the two Clan warriors faces “well maybe not me†he admitted “but I am someone they could accept. Someone not affiliated with Karen Able’s rein and not a Clanner.†He said “as far as the people of Hiberus will be concerned Megan Hall did everything she promised so the people who were loyal to Karen have lost their leader and effectively lost the war.
“We are allowing them to remain Warriors, is that not enough?†Jonathan Banacek answered him acidly he did not understand what these people expected they were entitled to nothing it was his troops that ended the war his troops that saved their precious Collection.
Damien turned his head to face the younger man directly. “Honestly? No.â€
Natasha raised her hand to forestall the expected response from the conservative Fire Mandrill Warrior. “I admit I myself do not understand what they truly want beyond protecting Victoria Able and her family,†was her reluctant reply.
Redburn nodded to her as he turned his head back to the holo-projector. An uncomfortable moment passed as the two Fire Mandrill Warriors awaited his response.
“The Collection was finally becoming a true nation, a true House at Karen’s death,†he answered them. Seeing the two Clanners still did not understand, he elaborated. “The other Inner Sphere nations are led by one family. Steiners in the Lyran Commonwealth, Davions in the Federated Suns. Kuritas in the Combine, the Liaos in the Capellan Confederation. The Calderons in the Concordat and the Centrellas in the Magistracy. As far as the Inner Sphere and Periphery are concerned each proper nation must have a ruling House. For them and many others, it’s that simple.â€
“If that is the case, what of the United Marik States or the Star League Protectorate or the Clans?†Jonathan rebutted.
Damien decided not to correct the saKhan on the true name of the Free Worlds League. Allowing himself a small smile as he caught the deer in the headlights look on Natasha Faraday’s look as she caught on. “Even they are no different, with power belonging to a few families or bloodlines,†she announced a moment later, startling the junior Khan.
“We are nothing like them!†he yelled out in anger despite the Mandrill separation from the other Clans and their obvious differences in interacting with the Inner Sphere and Periphery nations the saKhan was a very proud trueborn Clansmen.
“Are we not?†she asked as she glared into his eyes. “There are Bloodhouses that always gain leadership positions Faraday, Kerensky, Ward, Truscott, Jorgennson, McKenna, Nagasawa, Drummond Rosse, Pryde, Hazen one way or another eventually they end up in power.†Was her swift and sharp rebuttal to Jonathan before she turned her gaze towards Damien’s own. “You have a suggestion, quiaff?â€
He answered her with a nod. “Granting the Able-loyalists their wish would solve a lot of political and internal issues the Rim Collection currently faces, with one being an identity problem.â€
He could see they were contemplating it. Mostly Natasha, but Damien also caught curiosity flicker in Jonathan Banacek’s eyes and so continued. “I propose for House Able to become the nominal leaders of the Rim Collection, with power shared between and largely held by the President’s Council, the Rim Congress, the governors, and Clan Fire Mandrill.â€
“So we give them what they want and yet we hold the power, quiaff?†Jonathan surmised openly.
“Makes sense,†Natasha answered him. “We give the Able girl a fancy new title and some limited political power, the Collection once and for all becomes a proper Inner Sphere nation with its own House, and the illusion democracy once again flourishes within.â€
“Exactly,†Damien agreed. “And now I finally understand why you want little old me to become president,†he commented further, sighing.
Natasha Faraday grinned at him in response, shrugging her shoulders as she did so. “You finally caught onto why it had to be you. Though I had no idea just how the Clans were so similar to your Houses,†she mused out loud.
“So does that mean you will take the job?†she asked a moment later.
“Damnit to hell!†Damien cursed out loud at their amused faces. “Only if he says yes!†he answered, waving a hand to the holo-projector. Moments later, they were in conference with First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, informing him of the situation and the proposal to make Damien Redburn the Collection’s next President.
Several days later even as the dust was still settling in the aftermath of the Rim Collection civil war, seven-year old Victoria Able is announced as the first Sovereign of the Rim Collection, with her father, Matthew Davion, and older members of House Able as her regents until her thirteenth birthday. Surprising the interstellar community, however, is the choice of Ambassador Damien Redburn as the Rim Collection’s next president. In his speech, he sends a strong message of unity and reform, gaining many admirers from within the Collection.
Outwith the Rim Collection it is surmised that the internal conflict cost the Rim Collection almost six full military units with several of their high level commanders killed. Reports suggested as many as ten thousand civilians had died in the conflict along with dozens of civilian leaders killed either in the fighting or by Mandy Hall in her purge of the electorate. Observers note that with the political fallout created by the Civil War the Rim Collection’s partners in Clan Fire Mandrill are now in a stronger position than ever even with Redburn taking control over the political stage. They note that while the Clan cannot exert full control over the Collection anyone within the periphery nation would do so at their peril. Some long term analysts further believe that the civil conflict is not over in the Rim Collection but instead moved to a new stage one that will bring into question just who controls the nation? The Able family? The Politicians or Clan Fire Mandrill?
-
FSJS Centari, Star Lord-class JumpShip
Nadir Jump Point, Terra
Star League Protectorate
9th November 3104
The development of the Lithium Fusion Battery Mk II had revolutionized travel across the Inner Sphere. Instead of a JumpShip taking months to travel across an interstellar nation ships with an LF Mk II could travel the space in weeks. When combining this with the command circuits the journey could be shortened to a matter of days this was how Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion had made the journey five well placed JumpShips had taken her from the Raven Alliance border to the birthplace of humanity Terra.
“Sir there’s a signal from the flagship†the operations officer said turning in his seat Sterling realized after a moment that he was reporting to her instead of the ship’s commander.
“What do they report?†She asked
“Sir the Hanse reports that the First Prince’s party have arrived on Terra, you are expected on the planet at your first convenience.â€
“And the Prince?†Sterling asked wondering if her husband had arrived in system yet. If he had she was ready to throttle him for his antics on Addicks.
“On board the Hanse, mam, his JumpShip arrived yesterday he’s currently in surgery on board the battleship.â€
“Inform them I will be over shortly†she said turning to the JumpShip’s Commander “Captain Daniels thank you for carrying me here I suggest you leave quickly there are a lot of ships out there.â€
“We will do Duchess it was a pleasure having you on board.†The old man replied.
To say there were a lot of ships in the area was an understatement the area was packed with sips from the various realms of the Star League and from the SLDF itself. It took nearly two hours for them to get clearance force the Ares Mk IX to travel over to the FSS Hanse Davion II. Once the craft was clear of its jump radius the Centari jumped back out of the system.
Moving from the small craft into the First Prince-class Battleship Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion was surprised to be met by her husband, a heavily bandaged, Prince Burton Davion. “I thought you were in surgery†she said surprised to see him.
“My father needs me on Terra†he said motioning towards the small craft.
“Your father can manage†Sterling said angrily Victor Steiner-Davion had been First Prince of the Federated Suns for decades he could manage another conference. Burton on the other hand did not look well. His brown hair had been burnt on the left side while his left arm was bandaged heavily and strapped across his chest.
“I’m probably going to lose it†Burton said grimly following her gaze. “The doctors have left it attached to me to keep the blood flow going hoping for a miracle but it’s unlikely to heal one of them said the nerves were shot.â€
“You should have remained on Tikonov†Sterling said she was still angry he had come to Terra there was no need for them to be there too.
“Nothing more they can do for me wait and see is what they said.â€
“Then why the surgery?†She demanded
“Remove another piece of shrapnel from my back. Cockpit door shattered on my OmniMech fragments flew through the back of my chair.†The systems of his cockpit had also been affected which had caused the burns and shock to his arm.
“They are supposed to be armoured†she said deciding that she’d also likely be having words with the manufacturers on Kallon.
“Not built to take a shard of ferro fibrous armour it missed my spinal column but a couple of centimetres†he said turning around indicating with his right arm. “If that had happened I guess we wouldn’t be talking.â€
“They can do incredible things with injuries†Sterling said thinking of Burton’s future he had his whole life ahead of him and she wouldn’t let him give up.
“Hey I know we will see when I return home.†He promised her. Soon after they left the Hanse Davion II heading for Terra to join up with the First Prince’s party who were already at the Whitting Conference Centre in Unity City.
Fourth Battle of Incukalns
Incukalns, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
13th November 3104
The Lyran Commonwealth again try to liberate Incukalns from Clan Jade Falcon this time in the form of the Second Royal Guards RCT and the Eisenjagers Armoured Battalion. Escorted by the WarShips LCS Yggdrasil, a Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser, and LCS Adam Steiner, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, the RCT is able to fight its way to the planet and briefly contest the planet. In orbit the two LCAF WarShips engage the Turkina’s Might holding off the Battleship while causing significant damage to the craft forcing it to retreat from the system leaving the Jade Eagle
On the surface the Lyrans find the Jade Falcons have brought in units from elsewhere in their Occupation Zone to secure Incukalns. The Second Royal Guards take heavy damage over the course of their six week battle on Incukalns destroying two Clusters worth of Jade Falcons in the process. The arrival of the Falcon’s Nest and three Clusters of troops from Sudeten turn the balance against the Lyrans forcing them to abandon the system once more. Shielded by the two WarShips the Lyrans are able to escape past the Texas-class WarShip and the incoming Falcons. However the damage is done with the Second Royal Guards reduced to less than one third of its previous strength.
Elsewhere the strain of the fighting for Incukalns is beginning to show on the Jade Falcons as Lyran Commonwealth and mercenary forces liberate Pangkalan and Hood IV. On Hood IV the only defenders of the planet are a cluster worth of cadet warriors with none of the Mech pilots over the age of seventeen years. Several of the cadets are captured by the Lyrans and brought back to the Commonwealth. While on Pangkalan the Lyrans encounter Armoured forces, ProtoMechs and conventional infantry three branches of the Jade Falcon Touman rarely used to garrison planets without BattleMech support.
While efforts within the Jade Falcon Clan to increase warrior graduates and the flow of weapons continues the Clan is also continuing to explore other avenues for material trading the Pride of New Kent, a Carrack-class Transport, to the Starstrike Khanate of Clan Sea Fox and the Sarna Mercer, a Sovietskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, to the Coyotes for ground units and aerospace fighters. Jade Falcon Khan Ruel Chistu also proposes that Harvest trials are held against the warriors of the Sea Fox and Coyotes to allow warriors who wished to fight their chance but both Clans refuse. Instead Chistu approaches the Loremaster of the Clans Miguel Icaza, a former Jade Falcon, for assistance. Miguel Icaza allows harvest trials to take place on Tukayyid with approximately two full clusters of warriors from the Ebon Guard joining Clan Jade Falcon by the end of December. The Jade Falcon Khan also allows the Third Ebon Guard Cluster to travel to Incukalns and fight alongside the Jade Falcons while still remaining under the Loremaster’s banner as a way to give this unit a chance of gaining combat experience.
Fifteenth Whitting Conference, Meeting Room
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
20th November 3104
First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion led his son Prince Burton Davion into the meeting room he’d been surprised at the extent of his son’s injuries, no-one had said his condition was that bad, already in the room sat Archon Jessica Steiner along with her one year old newborn and sister Ambassador Melinda-Anne Steiner. As the two Victor saw the Archon’s reaction to seeing Burton but also saw that she covered it very well. “Archon it is good to see you†he said trying to ignore it.
“Thank you Uncle†she said smiling Victor had not expected such a warm welcome it had been almost thirty years since they had last seen each other. Melinda had seen Victor often enough in her role as Lyran Ambassador to the Star League. “Cousin it appears you have been in a war†she said looking at a sheepish looking Burton Davion.
“A disagreement with a Combine raider, I’ll recover†he promised her.
“That’s good†she said looking back at the elder Davion. “Our nations have been linked for many years I’d like to continue that link.â€
“What do you propose?†Victor asked cautiously sitting down opposite her Burton with his hurt ribs and other injuries sat down carefully his heavily bandaged left arm showing little life Victor had been injured several times during his career but he’d always gotten luck when it came to lasting injuries it appeared his son wasn’t so lucky.
“Well†she said glancing at her sister who nodded “I thought our first steps could be Burton accepting my request to become Isla’s Godfather. Melinda would support her but having a male figure who is strong†she saw Burton wince in his current condition likely the pain she throught “and not going to use her to gain prominence in the Lyran Commonwealth would be useful.â€
“We’re half a sphere away†Burton said quietly before speaking more confidently “but I would be honoured. I hope I do not have to try and fill you or your husband’s place but if necessary I will help her.†He said glancing at the sleeping baby.
“Thank you†Jessica said as the door behind them opened and Commanding-General Victor Focht, of the Star League Defence Force, entered.
“Sorry am I interrupting?†He said remaining near the door.
“No we were waiting for you†Jessica Steiner said neither Victor or Burton had expected the arrival of the Commanding-General obviously part of Jessica’s plan for the Federated Suns to help her nation involved the Star League Defence Force. Before she spoke further Melinda-Anne Steiner stood up and took Isla from her mother before quietly leaving the room. “Commanding-General the Star League Defence Force has the same problem that the Lyran Commonwealth has†she said “the Star League Navy lacks a WarShip capable of matching those fielded by the Clans.â€
“That is correct†he said “our shipyards are currently busy with designs that will be able to protect the Inner Sphere. We have few designs that can bring the fight to the enemy.â€
“Neither can we†she said looking at Victor “but the Federated Suns can.†She said continuing “the Federated Suns has capable WarShip designs and shipyard space.â€
“Which we are not ready to share†Victor said shocking his niece “understand Archon I would support the Lyran Commonwealth but not the Star League Defence Force, not militarily.†He said Victor Focht did not react instead he just looked back at the First Prince.
“Whatever is between you needs to be put aside†she said sternly Victor smiled admiring her tenacity. “We need assistance the Lyran Commonwealth and Star League Protectorate has Clans on their borders.â€
“The Federated Suns also has Clans on its borders†Burton pointed out.
“Two Clans that have caused you no bother†Victor Focht said quietly “you are both members of the Star League Defence Force mutual defence is a key part of the Star League’s charter.â€
“So it appears is espionage†the First Prince said looking at the Star League’s Commanding-General.
“Mistakes are made†was all the Commanding-General said.
“And those mistakes have jeopardized chances of cooperation and reduce the chances of sharing…†the First Prince snapped angrily looking directly at the SLDF officer.
“There is another option†Burton said calmly gaining surprised looks from all three others. Burton looked at his father “Indefatigable†was all he said.
“A drawing board exercise that will likely never be built†Victor said dismissively.
“It could be built†Burton said indicating he wished to speak further his father nodded “the Star League Defence Force will provide the WarShip Anti-Missile System which will be incorporated into the base design. You will both pay rates set by the Federated Suns and we will provide you with the Indefatigable-class Battleships.†He said the Federated Suns would ensure that they received enough payment to make the Indefatigable a reality for the Federated Suns Navy as well.
“There are still bugs in the WAMS…†Victor Focht began but caught Burton’s look “but they are not insurmountable I am sure we can work it out.†He said reading the Prince’s emotions which softened as he agreed to Burton’s terms.
“How long would it take to build these ships?†Jessica asked neither Burton nor Victor were engineers the best they could offer would be a guess.
“If we put a rush job on Galax and Hadrian perhaps within two years we could have the first vessels operational and ready for trials.†Burton said “until then we could spare some vessels to support.†He said glancing at his father “the Fifth?†His father raised an eyebrow surprised at his son’s suggestion the Fifth Battle Group was something the Federated Suns Navy had been attempting to form for months and something that the First Prince had opposed primarily because it was an assault force with two Battleships and none of the six ships smaller than a destroyer. Burton had wished to employ it against the Capellan Confederation but the fighting had been winding down to move the WarShips into position would have started another conflict. “They could be in place by March perhaps April†the Prince suggested.
“That would greatly assist in our defence†Jessica Steiner said gratefully. She would have preferred the WarShips to be accompanied by ground forces but knew when she was ahead and chose to remain quiet. Her military could handle the Falcons on the ground.
“I agree†Victor Focht said “the Star League Defence Force will fully compensate you for your assistance First Prince Davion.†He said the WarShip defence system was a start but the Commanding-General knew he’d have to take further steps to secure the Federated Suns continued support.
“And you have earned my vote in the upcoming elections†Jessica Steiner said.
“No†Victor Steiner-Davion said looking at his neice “you have mine.†He said looking back at the Lyran leader who looked surprised “a leader needs to be strong but also has to know when to ask for help.â€
Fifteenth Whitting Conference, Davion Wing
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
24th November 3104
“You did what?†Burton snapped angrily looking at Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion. Their children Luther and Leah were in bed in the room next to them, they’d been brought here with Burton’s parents, so the two of them spoke quietly.
“They are some of the best doctors in the Inner Sphere they can help you.â€
“The Doctors on New Avalon will take care of me when the time comes†he said barely wanting to admit the left arm that was strapped across his body was more than dead weight.
“The sooner you start your treatment the sooner you will be able to pilot a Mech again†she said appealing to the warrior part of him “or how about being able to pick up one of your children†she snapped tired of his excuses. “You are here what harm could it do?†She demanded Burton nodded slowly “then you will meet with them?†She asked making sure he agreed with her. The Prince of the Federated Suns nodded once more he’d do as she wished.
Fifteenth Whitting Conference, Neigotiations
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
25th November 3104
The Federated Suns and Draconis Combine agree to end the fighting between their nations in talks mediated by the Star League Defence Force. The Combine will retain control over Deneb Kiatos, Hean and Ankaa which had already been secured by the DCMS. The Federated Suns continue to control Addicks, Towne and Murchison while an AFFS counter-attack had secured the system of Helen. The contested system of Ingress is announced as a new Star League Protectorate holding.
Retirement Announcement
Kathil, Kathil PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
26th November 3104
At one hundred-and-four years old Field Marshal of the Capellan March Nathaniel Hasek retires from active service with the AFFS. Command of the Capellan March officially passes to Duchess Kym Hasek. As one of her first acts is to announce the First Kathil Uhlans have been redesignated as a Regimental Combat Team and has been assigned the FSS Silver Shield, a Robinson Block III-class Transport, for ground support and transport. Also during the Duchess’ announcement the First Kestrel Grenadiers has been linked with an independent Armour Brigade taking it one step closer to a full RCT.
Public Disturbance, Cathay
Solaris City, Star League Protectorate
28th November 3104
For the last six hours Star Captain Marc Ward had worked with to restore order on the streets of Solaris City. It had started when Andert Radick, a Wolf trueborn warrior, had won the Solaris World Championship. His Mad Cat III-X had been tasked to join others in trying to restore order on the streets alongside the Star League defence force and so far his BattleMech had taken a beating fighting against rogue mercenaries and angry Solaris competitors.
Turning a darkened Cathy street he saw a Star League Defence Force Nightsky BattleMech “Star League BattleMech this is Wolf Striker Eight part of the Wolf liaison force please respond.â€
“Wolf†the pilot seethed its massive arm mounted ax swiveling in front of him. “I am Amanda Stuart and I hold you responsible for this mess.â€
“We are assisting youâ€
“Of course you are†she said firing her Mech’s particle cannon striking the Mad Cat’s side torso. With little room to maneuver he loosed two full flights of ten long range missiles striking all over the chest of the Nightsky. The SLDF BattleMech launched itself into the air firing down on the Mad Cat with lasers and particle cannons. These weapons bore down on Marc’s BattleMech burning the Ferro Lamellor armour that covered the Clan Mech. Now closer Marc opened fire on the Nightsky firing his lasers one of his lasers went wide while the other and the small lasers struck the Nightsky’s leg burning the armour there. As the Nightsky pilot landed the povited to the right ducking out of the way of Marc’s lasers embedding the ax deep in his Mech’s right leg just above the knee. At point blank range Marc let loose with everything he had left his last long range missiles and all four of his Mech’s micro lasers added to the medium lasers. At this range there was almost no chance of missing but the same could be said for the Nightsky its lasers burned through the last structure in his damaged leg severing the limb above the knee. As his Mech fell forward the Mad Cat III got caught on the Nightsky’s ax dragging the other Mech down with it the two Mechs fell in a heap with the Mad Cat missing a leg and laying face down and with the Nightsky on top of the other Mech neither was going very far very fast.
Nearly four hours later after peace had been restored to the streets an SLDF salvage crew arrived to remove the Nightsky and Mad Cat from the street. The salvage crew found that the Nightsky pilot had been killed by one of the Clan Mech’s lasers while Marc Ward had been trapped by the other Mech falling on top of him but was alive and well. The SLDF offered to return Marc Ward to his Clan following the battle but the Wolf refused instead stating that he was a bondsmen of the SLDF and would do what his new “Clan†ordered.
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Fifteenth Whitting Conference, First Lord Election
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
1st December 3104
The Election of a new First Lord place within the Whitting Conference Centre in Unity City on Terra with the leaders of the Inner Sphere meeting in the main hall as promised First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion is the first to speak following an opening address by the outgoing First Lord Minoru Kurita. Victor states that they must all remember why the Star League was created and the good it has done before nominating Archon Jessica Steiner for the position.
Following Victor’s nomination of the Lyran leader Magestix Ilsa Centrella seconds the vote surprising the other members of the council. In opposition Draconis Combine leader Warlord Minoru Kurita nominates the Free Worlds League leader Captain-General Joseph Marik which is confirmed by Taurian Concordat leader Erik Martens-Calderon. With seemingly a deadlock from created by the other nation states and unable to attain the position himself Star League Protectorate leader Bannister Cameron, urged by Commanding-General Victor Focht, votes for Jessica Steiner to become the new First Lord of the Star League Defence Force.
Following the election of Jessica Steiner the Star League Defence Forces Commanding-General briefs the Council of the state of the SLDF. He states that the First Kittery Revenants Regimental Brigade has begun to form on Kittery while the Star League has made a deal with the Federated Suns to be supplied with a new class of WarShip and that Federated Suns WarShips would be assisting in the Star League Protectorate’s defence.
Duke Theodore Redburn of the Federated Suns is announced by First Prince Steiner-Davion as the new Federated Suns Ambassador to the Star League Defence Force. Theodore Redburn is the younger brother of recently announced President of the Rim Collection Damien Redburn. With no further outstanding business with the Star League Defence Force the various leaders break up ready to travel back to their own realms.
Fifteenth Whitting Conference, Davion Wing
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
5th December 3104
“You want to do what?†Victor Steiner-Davion looked at his son behind him his wife Danai Centrella-Davion stood silently watching the father and son.
“I’ve been speaking to doctors on Terra, I want to stay here and complete my recovery under their care.â€
“The doctors on New Avalon are preparing for you†Victor said glancing at his son’s left arm it had shown little improvement since he’d arrived on Terra he knew what that meant.
“And with a command circuit I could see them in three weeks†Burton said “the doctors on Terra can see me tomorrow. I am entirely safe here†Burton said confidently “Governor Winsor-Cameron has offered us a villa in the south of France during our stay on Terra.â€
“Our?†Danai asked
“Yes Sterling and the children will be staying too, you’re off baby sitting duties mother†Burton said smiling briefly it was a nice break from his discussion with his father.
“It is never a chore they are always good as gold.†She said stepping away
“I thought Sterling was setting in onboard the Sword and Sun?†Victor asked mentioning the WarShip Burton’s wife had recently been serving on.
“She is and she appreciate’s the opportunity†Burton said for a moment he was glad the former Snow Raven Khan was not here to argue her point instead she was with their children taking a tour around Unity City. “But she also agrees with me this will be good for us.â€
“Good for you?†Victor bristled picking up on something from what his son had said “is there something wrong with your home?â€
“No†Burton said pausing for a moment finding the words “you said to me years ago that you, your brothers and sisters drifted apart because you were posted across the Federated Commonwealth…â€
“It was our duty…†Victor began but Burton spoke over him as Danai moved up beside her husband linking her hand with his.
“You said that when it came down to it Katherine thought she was better than you because she didn’t know you, she didn’t know what made you tick, she didn’t know that in time you would learn how to overcome anything that you would come across.†Burton said he was proud of his father’s achievements but he didn’t want to face the same problems the elder Davion had faced. Victor could not argue with his son he often thought what might have been if he’d been closer with Katherine, Peter, Yvonne and Arthur when they were younger instead of really meeting them when they were grown up.
“I want my daughter and son to know each other to know their parents†Burton said “and I want to be able to pick them up if they fall.†He said referring to his arm “I think this is the best way for both of them.†Victor reluctantly nodded agreeing with his son glancing at his wife he saw that Danai agreed with her son’s choice.
“I will detach a segment of the First Davion Guards RCT they will also remain on Terra and will be your guardians.â€
“They won’t be needed†Burton said confidently.
“I don’t care†Victor said sternly “you are my son and your family will have guards from your homeland.†He said Burton nodded not willing to argue with his father over something like that.
Over the course of the next three weeks Prince Burton Davion underwent a series of assessments and physiotherapy attempting to bring his left arm back to life but there was little in the way of progress. Instead on the 29th Burton undergoes an operation to amputate the left arm from the shoulder down in preparation for him being fitted with an artificial limb. Meanwhile Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion and her children Luther and Leah become celebrities of Terra and are mobbed by adoring public everywhere they go as they are treated to the sights of the planet. While providing security for Burton and his family the combined-arms Regiment left behind by the First Davion Guards RCT are able to train at some of the most advanced combat ranges ever devised by man and train against the SLDF units based on the world of humanities origin.
Talk Inner Sphere, Interstellar News Network
Geneva, Europe
Terra, Star League Protectorate
7th December 3104
“Ladies and Gentlemen welcome to Talk Inner Sphere my name is Malek Thorne†the presenter said he was in his forties with long dark hair that was tied up in a topknot popular in the Federated Suns “and today’s question is a simple one. Has the Star League failed us and is it time for the Inner Sphere nations to retake their individuality and sunder the Star League?†He said as the camera pulled back to show a panel of guests waiting to speak. “With the Fifteenth Whitting Conference ending at the Conference Centre in Unity City and the Succession Lords returning home the question has been asked ladies and gentlemen the floor is open.â€
“The answer is no†Neil Berton, a former SLDF Major and member of the the Star League Advisory Council said.
“How can you say that? There is more fighting in the Inner Sphere now than there has been since the Succession Wars.†Malek said “there have been renewed conflicts with every single one of the Clans the Star League recently had to mediate a dispute between two of its member states.â€
“Exactly the Star League Defence Force has done its job!†Berton said “the Star League was recreated to bring about the end to the Clan Invasion, the destruction of Clan Smoke Jaguar and to give the Inner Sphere a neutral place to sort out their differences like ComStar did during the Succession Wars but without their covert nature.â€
“Says a man who used to work for them†the Capellan Confederation representative said.
“You have something to say Lukas Holt?†Thorne asked looking at the man dressed in the traditional robes of a Confederation nobleman his long dark hair tied up.
“The birth of the Star League Defence Force has also seen the rebirth of the Terran Hegemony in spirit if not name.†He said accusingly “soon the Star League will tell us all that their Protectorate is no more and a new Hegemony will have risen in its place.â€
“Preposterous†Berton said angrily
“Intelligence from the Confederation suggests that the so called Guard regiments are covers for dozens of Divisions that have been raised in secret behind the walls of the Protectorate ready to rise up when the time is right. We believe they have hundreds of the hated M5 Casper Drones and that they have been trying to create entire regiments of Drone BattleMechs they are ready to replace flesh and blood with machine!â€
“That is the Capellan Confederation’s opinion but not one that represents all of the Inner Sphere.†Hibiki Marata of the Draconis Combine said “the Star League Defence Force has created a Protectorate for the worlds that were devastated during the Succession Wars, a place where we can negotiate and a place where we can freely trade together without fear of our people being attacked. The Star League Defence Force has supported us in our defence against the Clans.â€
“What of the renewed joint invasion of the Lyran Commonwealth? Clan Hell’s Horses forces have attacked Atocongo, New Extford and Kandersteg while the Jade Falcons continue to hold Incukalns despite concentrated attempts to capture the world by the Lyrans and the Star League Defence Force.†Patrick Taubuck a representative of the Lyran Commonwealth said.
“It is not united†Berton replied “those Clans are operating independent of each other. Reports suggest that the Hell’s Horses recently captured two Jade Falcon worlds as well as attacking the three worlds of the Commonwealth.†He said “while it’s suggested that the Coyotes and Rasalhague Dominion have also taken more than a dozen worlds from the Hell’s Horses.â€
“Limited Trials of Possession†Malcolm Nirveeton of the Federated Suns said “analysis of the reports from the Occupation Zones suggest that the worlds fought over by the four Clans away from the Inner Sphere are being dealt with in traditional Trials of Possession following the ritualized form of Combat so cherished by the Clans during their initial invasion. We know that the Clans are cut off from the Kerensky Cluster and the other worlds that birthed them, what exactly happened to cause this we do not know, and because of this the Clans have worked out a way for them to engage in these “Honour Trials†which remind them of how they used to fight in the Clan Homeworlds and allows individual warriors to revel in the combat that they find so appealing.†He said “we have seen similar moves made recently by the Sea Fox, Snow Raven and Nova Cat Clans which follow a similar pattern they enter the space of an Inner Sphere held world and challenge the defenders to an honourable battle. The Clans attempt to engage in the ritualized bidding and combat that they used during the initial invasion they take what they lose or leave with what they win.â€
“They are little more than pirates†Lukas Holt sneered suggesting that the Confederation had faced similar raids.
“The only Clan that has not engaged in such matters is Clan Wolf†the last member of the panel Ava Taylor of the Free Worlds League said. “When Clan Wolf attack they come to claim territory and when they defend they defend with everything they have. Their successes speak for themselves of all the Clans they are the only one who is within striking distance of Terra.â€
“There are Hell’s Horses forces on Terra Firma†Berton noted.
“A small force mainly made up of old Mechs and warriors guarding a crashsite and some traders.†Taylor replied “the Wolves on the other hand are young, well equipped warriors with a desire to see Terra held in Clan hands or burned to a cinder.â€
“And that is why the Star League stands†Berton said “you ask if the Star League Defence Force has succeeded I say yes. Without a standing Star League the Inner Sphere could easily have been consumed in another conflict on par with the Succession Wars but worse now because of the continued Clan threat. Instead we have safeguarded Terra, rebuilt the worlds devastated by the Succession Wars and held the Clans in their Occupation Zones. I saw that the Star League Defence Force is a success and should stand to see another fifteen Whitting Conferences.†Berton said passionately his belief in the Star League unshaken by the events in the Clan Occupation Zones or the infighting between the various Succession States. Lukas Holt of the Capellan Confederation continued to look unimpressed his warning that the Star League Protectorate was nothing but the Terran Hegemony reborn continuing to hang over everything despite Berton’s assurances. And the question remained was the SLDF being successful? Was it bringing about a new golden age?
Border conflict
Millungera, District of Gibraltar
Free Worlds League
17th December 3104
The defection of Promised Land spurs a deeper strike from Lyran troops assaulting Millungera despite the continued fighting on the Clan Wolf and Clan Jade Falcon borders. Millungera falls within eight hours as the Thirty-second Lyran Guards RCT pushing elements of the Second Tamarind Militia Regiment off the planet with minimal damage. The District of Gibraltar counter attacks against Cavanaugh II, Dixie and Timbiqui but they are unable to budge the Lyran defences. The border fighting between the two successor states brings some much needed breathing room for Clan Wolf who were beginning to feel pressed by the fighting along their borders.
Internal Change
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
20th December 3104
With Dieron based troops securing worlds on the Federated Suns border and securing Aubisson from Clan Ghost Bear Warlord Minoru Kurita chooses to award the Warlord of Dieron and the Dieron Military District with control over eight worlds from the Benjamin Military District literally redrawing the District lines inside the Draconis Combine. Minoru also directs that the Warlord of Dieron should have all control over the disputed region being fought over by the Rasalhague Dominion, Lyran Commonwealth and his own Draconis Combine. These two factors cause great dishonour on the Warlord of Benjamin Mitsura Sakamoto.
Morven City Outskirts
Morven, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
29th December 3104
Following intelligence that suggested Clan Nova Cat was forcefully relocating entire neighbourhoods within their held territory by destroying people’s home and publically executing those who refused the First Tikonov Lancers RCT on Filtvelt had acted attempting to come to the defence of the planet’s population. Jumping in at a pirate point they had avoided the Nova Cat Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Sabretooth and burned towards the planet’s surface.
Moving his Musketeer Hovertank through the outskirts of the planet’s surface Subaltern Mikhail Kvyat noticed something wrong almost immediately. “This is Charlie Four to command†he called out hearing a response soon after “sir, everything looks very normal here…†He said his voice trailing off as he looked through his monitors “people are going on with their normal business.†His commander replied a moment later “yes sir, but I mean the only thing out of place here is our tank†he said leaning to the right for a moment as his commander nearly screamed down the radio. “Yes sir, I understand that but you’re not seeing what I am there’s no destruction here you could place this neighbourhood down anywhere in the Inner Sphere.†He said glancing down at his sensors he saw something up ahead. “I’ve got a problem here†he said “no a big ****** problem, sir, I’ve got two Snow Tiger OmniVehicles approaching.†Mikhail turned to the other crewmen “we’re getting the hell out of here.†He said to them forgetting his microphone was still on “yes sir, we’re retreating†he said as the Musketeer began to turn he hoped that the Nova Cats wouldn’t fire as the Federated Suns vehicle hadn’t fire on them.
Moments later his fears were answered as two gauss slugs flew over the hovertank “there’s no way that was an accident†he said glancing at the sensors then at the other crewmen the two shots had missed by less than ten metres flying over the Musketeer’s turret. “Command, they are firing warning shots we’re in full retreat, Command respond!†Mikhail called out as the vehicle’s driver poured on the speed taking the craft back down the street behind them the two Snow Tiger OmniVehicles followed neither firing but Mikhail knew their gauss rifles were in range.
As they cleared the outskirts of Morven City the Musketeer suddenly accelerated to its maximum speed. Behind them the two Snow Tigers accelerated to match them keeping the Cossacks Hovercraft in range of their gauss rifles. “We’ve got incoming†Mikhail called out as the two Snow Tigers fired again this time their shots were on target and both slammed into the rear and left hand side of the the hovertank. The armour held but it was a clear message as on the sensors Mikhail saw the rest of the hovertanks of his platoon were in full retreat chased by hovertanks, VTOLs, ProtoMechs and OmniMechs. “Oh no†Mikhail said as he switched to long range sensors he saw the Tikonov Cossacks landing zones were being besieged by Nova Cat heavy and assaut Mechs and vehicles. “Charlie Four to Base anyone there? Where do you want us?†He asked noticing the Snow Tigers happy that the Musketeer wasn’t fighting them had broken off their pursuit. “Come in base†he repeated as the closed on range. “Forget it!†He shouted “boys pull left ready main gun and missiles target is Nova Cat II OmniMech on our right side. We hit them in the back with the cannon then follow up with streaks as we pass. He said as the Musketeer closed on the heavy OmniMech twisted to attack them its autocannons, short range missiles and pulse lasers all opening up on the fast moving hovercraft as it closed its range. Even as the Hovercraft’s armour was opened by the Nova Cat’s weapons fire the Musketeer’s own rotary autocannon began to cut into the Nova Cat’s armour its SRMs following up as the Musketeer passed by the Nova Cat II.
The reason why the BattleMech, and its more advanced cousin the OmniMech, dominated the battlefield in the thirty-second century was made clear in this battle between the Nova Cat II and the Musketeer. While the Nova Cat II took the hits from the autocannon and missiles to its armour with barely a consideration the Musketeer was not so lucky the autocannon fire, missiles and lasers of the Nova Cat tore into the fast moving hovercraft and then as the Musketeer past by the OmniMech its torso twist capacity allowed it to track the Musketeer and finish off the vehicle with a second volley lasers and autocannons opening up the armour while short range missiles blew open the armour destroying the hovercraft. Even as the Musketeer died a second volley from its rotary cannon ripped across the Nova Cat II’s torso but to no effect the heavy OmniMech turning towards its next target.
Across the battlefield a similar story was repeated as the two on planet Nova Cat clusters peppered the AFFS RCT remaining at long range to cause damage to the invaders. With their JumpShips confirming that the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser in system was heading towards the planet and no evidence to support the intelligence that had led to the attack the remaining Tikonov Cossacks abandon the planet leaving nearly two regiments of equipment and personnel that had been destroyed by the Nova Cats. Both of the Clan clusters that had engaged the Cossacks had lost half their strength but both remained operational ready to defend from a second attack and to recover the salvage left behind. From the planet back to their JumpShips the Cossacks raced as the Sabretooth headed in system the seven hundred-and-forty thousand tonne WarShip maintaining its speed trying to catch the RCT. The Cossacks were moving too fast for the WarShip to make the intercept but the damage was done even as the AFFS unit jumped back towards Filtvelt the Federated Suns can only brace itself for the Nova Cat reprisals.
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Stepping into 3105
3105
Draconis Combine Raid
Orestes District, Rasalhague Dominion
9th January 3105
The Warlord of Benjamin Mitsura Sakamoto feeling dishonoured by Warlord Minoru Kurita’s decision to award Dieron’s successes by transferring planets from Benjamin’s control to Dieron leads a personal attack on the Rasalhague Dominion planet of Kiesan leading the Ninth Sword of Light Regiment.
Landing on the planet the Warlord leads the Regiment from his Dragon BattleMech against the Ghost Bears of the 115th Striker Cluster and Nineteenth Battle Cluster of the Rasalhague Dominion. In the opening volleys of the battle the Warlord’s Dragon was cut down by the massed fire of the Bears against them. Within two days of battle the Ninth Sword of Light Regiment is completely destroyed by the Rasalhague Dominion forces.
Inside the Draconis Combine Shichiro Hayashida is named as the new Warlord of the Benjamin District by Warlord Minoru Kurita and is tasked with preparing the District of Benjamin for the Ghost Bear’s counter attack.
Nova Cat Counter-attack
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th January 3105
Following the Federated Suns Raid against Clan Nova Cat’s territory the Clan counter attacks against the Federated Suns periphery regions striking at multiple worlds in heavy raids. For the most part the Nova Cat’s restrict these attacks to simple Trials of Possession however they also seize the sytems of Skepptana, Maram, Sodertalje and Adelson. The Nova Cat’s take their raids a step further with the elite Forty-fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers Cluster raiding Malagrotta distracting command elements of the Ninth Crucis Lancers RCT from defending against the Nova Cat raids. The Forty-fourth keeps the Ninth Crucis busy for two weeks before abandoning the system and returning to the Nova Cat’s Den.
Raids and Counter-attacks
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th January 3105
As Clan Jade Falcon continue their efforts to keep the Lyran Commonwealth off balance three Clusters Solahma troops launch raids against the Lyran and Mountain Wolf supply lines on New Capetown, Bluque and Krievci. These raids are little more than suicide runs with all three Solahma destroyed by the Lyran Commonwealth, Mountain Wolf and Star League Defence Force units.
Despite the Solahma attacks the Lyran Commonwealth raids and successfully liberates Kolovrety, Annuniziata and Chapultepec from Clan Jade Falcon control. The Lyrans find little resistance from the Jade Falcons who have stripped units from the periphery area of their Occupation Zone to hold onto other more important systems.
Marseille Royal Hospital
Marseille, France
Terra, Star League Protectorate
23rd January 3105
It had been a week since Prince Burton Davion had been fitted with the myomer replacement arm the doctors had said it would have to be unpowered to allow his body to adjust to its presence before they took the next step and now was the day for the next step. “Prince Davion we are activating the power source now. You will feel a slight twinge†one of the doctors said “I’d like you to try to remain calm and do not try to move the arm†he said. A few moments later Burton felt like someone had sent a searing poker through his side he remained in position as the pain passed slowly before it was completely gone. “Prince Davion are you still with us?â€
“Barely†Burton admitted clenching his right fist surprising himself the myomer left arm clenched the arm’s fist as well. “Damn†he said smiling opening both fists then closing his flesh hand and then the mechanical one separately.
“Very nice Burton†the doctor said as Burton tried to raise his arm sideways his flesh and blood arm move with ease but the other didn’t move. “Slowly†the doctor said seeing Burton’s frustration building “the new arm needs to learn how to work with you it’s not going to work overnight its all about muscle memory just like the real thing you need to teach this arm how to behave.â€
“And once it knows what its doing?â€
“Once you teach it what to do you’ll barely notice the difference between the two†the doctor promised bringing a grin from the Prince he was beginning to turn the corner since his injury on the Combine border. Over the course of the next three weeks Burton Davion learns how to use the artificial left arm as well as he ever used his natural limb. Once it was clear that Burton’s body was not rejecting the limb the Terran doctors fitted it with a synthetic skin which for all intensive purposes looked just like human skin with several courses of treatments the doctors matched the skin’s colour to Burton’s natural colour making the limb appear completely normal.
Garden of the Gods, New Greenland
New Olympica, Star League Protectorate
Free Worlds League
28th January 3105
The independent McKenna-class Battleship Subtlety and her attending JumpShips of the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts had spent the tail end of 3104 with the people of the District of Regulus and had on multiple occasions stated they would remain an independent force. Their arrival at New Olympica, the first planet to have an official Star League Defence Force presence, it was expected that the Subtlety would align itself and its trainers with the Star League Defence Force but Captain William Leroy-Dietrich made it very clear in his first meeting with the SLDF representatives that Subtlety would remain independent. Despite this the WarShip and its attached college was welcomed into the system and given full access to the SLDF training facilities including the SLDF’s own training WarShip the SLS Sheridan, a Bonaventure-class Corvette. The Star League officials had revealed to the Subtlety’s crew that the McKenna’s original name while under the flag of the first Star League Defence Force the SLS Billingsgate however even this revelation is not enough to sway the current crew of the Subtlety.
As well as training with the SLDF and seeing the facilities on offer at New Olympica the Subtlety’s crew had been offered the chance of shore leave at New Olympica’s many resorts. Over the years since the Star League’s take-over of the system they had promoted the rebuilding of the many resorts one such place was high in the mountains of the island of New Greenland known as the Garden of the Gods.
“It’s beautiful here†Commander America Park said glancing over the snow covered mountain range.
“Beautiful but cold†Captain William Leroy-Dietrich said pulling his fur lined jacket close to his body.
“It was your idea to come here†America teased closing on him she’d remained on the Subtlety because it offered her an opportunity she could not have in the Magistracy of Canopus. She’d stayed on the ship because of its commander. William Leroy-Dietrich was a puzzle to her although he was older than her by a decade but had the drive and desire of a young fighter pilot while commanding the Subtlety with what seemed like endless patience it was a series contradictions that confused her and attracted her.
“We were invited†William said simply blowing warm air into his hands then stuffing them in his jacket’s pockets.
“You were the one that was invited, perhaps they think you’ll have an accident and they can recruit the Subtlety with a new Captain.†She suggested half joking.
“There’s only one accident I want to have†William said kneeling down on the balcony beside her America Rebecca Park will you marry me?†he asked looking up from her having produced a beautiful studded ring.
“What?†She asked surprised by his question “where did this come from? When did you start feeling like this?†She asked in rapid succession.
“Will you marry me†he repeated himself “you know how I feel it’s been fun together but I know you miss home†he said she’d spoken of the Magistracy several times over the last few months often wondering if she’d given up her career for the bashed up WarShip. “I want you to make a new home on Subtlety, with me†he said she could see it in his eyes he was serious not just feeling sorry for her.
“You’re serious?†She asked still shocked William hadn’t moved from his kneeling position.
“I’m serious†he said “I bought this three months ago on Harmony, I’ve brought you to the Garden of the Gods one of the most beautiful places on New Olympica†he said looking out over the mountains “but Commander it is up to you.†He said more formally reminding her of what she could still have. The two of them had danced around this for months having fun together as a couple while also serving the Subtlety and the College. Now William Leroy-Dietrich wanted to take it a step further like he’d seen others of his crew do they’d talked together about renovating part of the cargo bay on board the Subtlety into new training rooms and accommodation William had even made note that such a renovation could include space for larger staterooms which she hadn’t thought much about before but now it made more sense.
“Yes†she said suddenly still looking down at him “yes I’ll marry you†she said agreeing to his proposal. The ring slipped onto her finger fitting perfectly, how he’d guessed her size she had no idea, but she didn’t care as the Captain rose to his feet and met her lips with his.
The two spent another two weeks together in the Garden of the Gods enjoying the winter sports on offer in the mountains while enjoying each others company. Their time on New Olympica was shared by dozens of others from their travelling college while in space the Subtlety, their aerospace fighters and DropShips trained against and with the Star League Defence Forces in system.
-
Capellan Offensive
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
6th February 3105
After years being on the back foot to the Federated Suns and the District of Oriente the Capellan Confederation strike at Ryerson, Deschanes, Hudeiba, Mosiro and El Giza of the District of Oriente following a plan laid out by Isabelle Fisk a rising star in the Capellan’s shattered military. The Capellan Confederation use their one and only Thera-class Carrier, the CCSS Chancellor’s Pride, to overwhelm the District of Oriente’s Monolisk-class Destroyer New Delos in the El Giza system and the threat of orbital bombardment from the CCSS Chancellor’s Destiny in the Deschanes system to force the Oriente troops into capitulation.
Three days later the Magistracy of Canopus, secretly supported by Capellan special forces, attack and conquer Ganera, Kanata and Guangzho from the District of Oriente. With the majority of Oriente’s line regiments aimed at holding onto more important worlds and pressing against the Capellan’s Sarna Commonality the Seventh Orloff Grenadiers are left scattered over the region attempting to resist the invaders. Without the support they need the Regiment fall under the pressure put against them and its survivors are forced to retreat to be folded into other commands.
Chamber of the Clans, Clan Council
Andrey, Tuakkyid
Independent Clan Space
11th February 3105
Loremaster of the Clans Miguel Icaza glanced around the various Loremasters of the Clans. “The Ebon Guard unit are standing on Incukalns with their brothers in Clan Jade Falcon.†He said glancing among the others “production on and around Tukayyid is higher now than it has ever been and all Clan’s are benefitting from the production of the eight factories we have built together on this world.†He said “today Clan Wolf and Clan Hell’s Horses have won the two most recent WarShips produced at Tukayyid’s growing shipyard facility.†He said his words did not come close to representing what the Clans had done together on the world. Tukayyid was becoming a hub for production of Clan technology and weapons development with the recent activation of a Fire Mandrill vehicle factory on the planet every Clan now had a production facility on the planet while several Clans had more than one.
“My plan, my desire, is to create a hub where all of our Clans can grow and benefit safely from the reach of the Inner Sphere. Within the last month forces from the Ebon Guard have won Trials of Possession to produce the Halcyon-class Cruiser, the Swiftsure-class Cruiser and Drake-class Corvette. Each of these designs will be built at the shipyard facility over this world and each will be made available to all of your Clans. On the ground more of our designs will be built and made available to all our Clans together sharing our technology and our units will made the Clans more resilient to change and more effective against the Inner Sphere." He said addressing the Loremasters of each Clan they were his link to the Clans themselves and would carry the words from Tukayyid and their accomplishments to all corners of Clan society.
In orbit chassis and armour factories produced materials for all the Clan’s factories to use while weapons and equipment facilities were under construction. Beyond Tukayyid the systems of Lothan, Altenmarkt, Ramsau, Dehgolan and Udea were being tied more tightly to the Independent territory on Tukayyid with additional Recharging stations, communication and mining facilities being constructed in each system supporting Tukayyid’s status.
Commanding-General’s Briefing, Capitol Guard’s Memorial
Archon’s Palace, Arcturus
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
12th February 3105
The Archon moved slowly around the Capitol Guard’s Memorial looking at the monuments to the fallen Captiol Guard’s Regiment which had fought and died defending Arcturus. Behind her several Royal Guards and the Royal Black Watch Regiment surrounded the area protecting the perimeter. Standing nearby Commanding-General Victor Focht of the SLDF allowed the Archon to walk slowly around the area before continuing the recent revelation that Archon Jessica Steiner was pregnant once more had made her take an interest in the past as well as the Clan’s future. “My nation is on the brink†she admitted glancing over at the Commanding-General “I need support from the SLDF.â€
“The 789th Striker Regimental Brigade is already on Arc Royal supporting the defences there and your efforts to retake the Incukalns system, while the Second Royal Regimental Brigade remains on Bolan. The Royal Black Watch is at your service for the duration of your time as First Lord while the 208th Hussar Regimental Brigade will move from its base in the Star League Protectorate to support your nation against the Clans.†He said naming the four Regimental brigades that were in or would soon be stationed in the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Four out of Thirty-six Brigades†Jessica said displeased by the partly sum of units that would assist her nation.
“We have responsibilities to the entire Inner Sphere. SLDF units are based in each of the member states nations supporting its defence and other projects. We must also defend the Protectorate worlds from Clan Wolf who now have pushed through the Lyran Commonwealth to our borders.†Victor Focht said although he was a warrior first and claimed no noble title the son of Anastasius Focht stood his ground showing the new First Lord that the SLDF would not be backing down. “The Lyran Commonwealth will benefit from the assistance of the SAS Division and several WarShips that have been deployed along your border while three WarShips of the AFFS will also be joining you within the next three months.â€
“While the Protectorate will also gain access to three WarShips from the Federated Suns†Jessica said reminding Victor Focht that the AFFS had agreed to assist them both with their Fifth Battle Group.
“We must slow the Wolf advanceâ€
“I agree†she said moving around the monument to the lost men and women who had died defending this world. “What do you think will happen next?â€
“They Jade Falcons will continue to raid the Lyran Commonwealth but perhaps in less numbers than previous we know that their Touman is hurting from holding Incukalns.â€
“Does the SLDF have any theories to why they are spending so many resources on that world?â€
“No but we do know they have fortified several positions there and that they have been directing excavation work on the southern mountains. Our research has shown no evidence of a previous SLDF facility on the world but our records are incomplete.†He admitted “the Jade Falcons have also been staging much more units off these worlds than we had previously thought.â€
“And what of the Rasalhague Dominion and Clan Wolf’s what is their current threat level towards the Inner Sphere?â€
“Clan Wolf is dangerous†he said simply “they have been hurt in the recent battles against the Lyran Commonwealth and Free Worlds League but our intelligence suggests that they have sacrificed some territory intentionally shortening their supply lines while edging towards the Star League Protectorate. We also believe that they are building a new destroy-type WarShip over Tamarind hence their defence of that system.†He said pausing allowing Jessica to digest the information “the Rasalhague Dominion appear to be pushing further units forward towards Vega with the Draconis Combine continuing to raid the Rasalhague Dominion and Lyran Commonwealth it has made the shared border tense.â€
“Tense?†Jessica Steiner said “the Combine has raided the Lyran Commonwealth for centuries we do the same to them. Trust me the only reason the Drac is involved in the current border dispute is because they think the Lyran fist is distracted and aimed at the Jade Falcons.†She said “if they continue down their current path we will be forced to punch them in a sensitive spot.†She threatened Victor Focht remained passive about the prospect of a war between the two states the SLDF was not here to stop them fighting instead it was designed to stop a total war conflict like the Succession Wars or Clan Invasion which would dramatically change the dynamics in the Inner Sphere. “And what of the Nova Cats has the Federated Suns requested SLDF aid against them?†She asked referring the the recent Nova Cat raids against the Federated Suns Periphery.
“No†Focht said “in fact the Federated Suns has retaken Rentz and Brockton by themselves. It appears that the Federated Suns has honoured the Clans way of fighting with the Nova Cats engaging them in Trials of Possession. Due to this process of warfare the Nova Cats have limited their attacks against the Federated Suns.â€
“If it were so easy I would do the same with the Jade Falcons and Wolves.†The First Lord admitted the Lyran Commonwealth had the most foreign borders in the entire Inner Sphere bordering with twelve different powers Jessica could ignore most of the Periphery borders as neither the Rim Collection nor the rebel Clan faction, the Stone Spirits, seemed interested in further conflict with her nation but other than the Star League border every other one needed to be watched and guarded the current strain on the LCAF was beginning to show. She hoped that with the SLDF in support the strain physical and financial on the LCAF would be lessened.
Aftermath Fifth Battle of Incukalns, Jade Falcon Command
Green Mountains, Incukalns
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
15th February 3105
As if to echo the Lyran Arhon’s words the Fifth Battle of Incukalns had not gone the Lyran way and now deep inside Incukalns Green Mountains Khan Ruel Chistu approached the state of the art holotable in the centre of the Jade Falcons newly constructed command bunker. “Our status?â€
“The last Lyran and Mountain Wolf forces have retreated from the system. We completely cut off the First Wolf Legion Cluster, they fought to the end, and they will provide us with good salvage.†saKhan Jana Pryde reported the Lyran Commonwealth Mountain Wolf attack had entered the system far beyond normal arrival points burning into the system over the course of six days beating the Jade Falcon WarShips to the planet. It was a new tactic but one that hadn’t served them any better than before landing on the planet they faced three full Galaxies of the Jade Falcons who had been preparing for the Jade Falcons next assault.
“They were heading for The Vault enterance†Chistu noted “how did they discover our secret?â€
“We are unsure†Jana Pryde admitted “according to all of our sources The Vault was lost to the history of the Inner Sphere. Perhaps they got lucky.†She suggested bringing an angry look from the senior Khan. “Regardless they were not ready for our fixed defences.†She said the Jade Falcons had always considered such things to be dishonourable but Incukalns was too important to the Falcons to take to chance.
When the Jade Falcons had invaded the planet they had captured a Lyran Commonwealth survey team along with their data under the Green Mountains the survey team had discovered an Star League-era supply depot that had laid hidden under a half collapsed mountain for centuries. With heavy lifting equipment brought in by the Falcons and a liberal use of explosives they had cleared away several thousand tons of rock that had covered the facility and inside they had found several dozen armoured vehicles and BattleMechs from the original Star League. Most of these units were damaged and this had served as a dumping ground for vehicles too damaged to be carried on by the SLDF during their efforts to either conquer the Rim Worlds Republic or their Liberation campaign of Terra. Below the facility they had found barracks that could hold nearly a Division worth of troops and an extensive planning facility and training rooms. The find was a gold mine and one that the Jade Falcons had sacrificed much to hold the world which was so close to the Lyran Commonwealth.
“The Defenders were a welcome addition†Chistu admitted recently the Hell’s Horses had taken much of the Jade Falcons territory but not all had been through Trials of Possession instead some of the planets had been traded away for two full stars of the Hell’s Horses new Outpost Defender DropShip. Over half of the Defenders were based on Incukalns providing them with a massive boost to air defences. “Now for the next part†he said determined.
“Should we?†Jana Pryde challenged “we are holding the Lyrans here but they have successfully retaken Melissa and Mogyorod†she said looking at him the two planets were the Jade Falcon worlds closest to the Periphery.
“Freebirth scum†Chistu said angrily Pryde knew that he was talking about the defenders that had been left on that world as well as the Lyrans. â€I do not care about Melissa or Mogyorod†Chistu said dismissively “neither supported our Clan. Neither of them is Terra. We must move forward we must pursue to Wolves and strike at the Star League.â€
“The more worlds we lose the more likely one of the other Clans will try to absorb us.†Pryde said concerned that their Touman was taking a pounding too often to maintain control over their OZ.
“We do not need an extensive occupation zone. Any of the other Clans that think they do are wrong and none of them will dare try and absorb us after the next action we take.†Chistu said “I promise you Jana Pryde a prize will adorn that wall†he said looking past her. “I leave tonight. You are to remain here and maintain control over this world.â€
“I wish you a great victory†Jana Pryde said deciding not to try and talk him out of the decision.
Aftermath of Battle
Al Hillah, Rasalhague Dominion
24th February 3105
saKhan Sepp Heller walked across the battlefield surveying the damaged equipment that was left over the battle against the Rasalhague Dominion. Clan Coyote’s attack had caught the Rasalhague Dominion defenders by surprise but both Clans had fought within the limits of Zellbrigen at least that was what Heller had believed during the battle. Now after the battle, however, he was unsure Star Colonel Jolyon Koga, commander of his Galaxies Forty-second Assault Cluster, stood up ahead near a downed Rasalhague Dominion Beowulf IIC. Digging inside the BattleMech were several Coyote techs. “You called for me Star Colonel?†Heller asked his almost mechanical voice cutting through the haze that had followed the battle. Heller had been injured early in his warrior career during a circle of equals the only repair available to the doctors had been to replace his voice-box with a mechanical replacement.
“Aff saKhan†Koga said “we have discovered something wrong with this Beowulf†he said indicating to the ruined BattleMech behind him. The techs that were working on the Mech were making even more of a mess of the Mech so obviously salvage was not in their minds.
“What is it?†Heller asked Koga winced hearing the saKhan speak Heller had seen it for most of his career and ignored the Star Colonel’s reaction.
“During the battle we intercepted data that had been passed between the various Rasalhague Dominion units.†He explained “it did not appear to be purely communication transmissions.†Heller looked unimpressed but Koga continued, “We believe they were sharing targeting data.†Koga explained his saKhan now looked more shocked than anything. “The techs are attempting to salvage the technology from this Mech to confirm our belief.â€
“C3 technology like that used in the Homeworlds?†Heller asked an angry edge raising in his voice.
“Aff ovKhan†Koga answered
“I want this technology salvaged immediately†Heller said reinforcing the decision that had already been made. As soon as it is recovered I want it put on a DropShip and sent out of this system if the Bears return to challenge for a second Trial of Possession they will not recover this technology.†He said Heller did not for a second believe it was a unique finding from the Rasalhague Dominion so if they returned and recaptured the salvage the Coyotes finding would disapper and be written off as faulty Coyote sensor readings.
First Battle of Arc Royal
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
25th February 3105
The attack on Arc Royal had come as a surprise to the Lyrans, mercenaries, SLDF and Mountain Wolves in the system. The arrival of the Falcon’s Nest, Emerald Talon and two Galaxies of Jade Falcon warriors in the system had caught everyone by surprise. In the opening volley from the two Jade Falcon WarShips the LCS Yggdrasil and LCS Donegal exploded as the Jade Falcon Battleships concentrated their fire. As DropShips and aerospace fighters scrambled to engage the two Jade Falcon vessels the LCS Victor, a Peter-class Scout ship, jumped out of the system carrying word of the attack on Arc Royal to the rest of the Lyran Commonwealth. Without WarShip support the defenders had no chance of stopping the Jade Falcons moving in system. Near the planet the Werewolf and the recently acquired Avalon Block II-class Cruiser Inflexable was all that stood between the Falcons and the planet.
Eight days after they had arrived in the system the Jade Falcons arrived in weapons range of the Mountain Wolves Khan Ruel Chistu sat in his Turkina OmniMech cockpit as the massive WarShips engaged each other in a slugging match. With the Mountain Wolves content to keep their distance and try to cripple their opponents with long range fire the decision was made to release the Jade Falcon ground forces before reinforcements arrived in the system.
Breathing deeply Ruel Chistu ignored the increased gravity as the DropShips burned rapidly towards the planet hitting the atmosphere even as Mountain Wolf, Star League and mercenary aerospace fighters and DropShips tried to engage them. Below his Turkina bay doors retracted and Ruel Chistu was given a countdown from the DropMaster as the second ticked to zero before the ninety-five ton OmniMech was released dropping towards Arc Royal’s surface.
“Falcons Wings strike as you land no mercy!†He called out as his OmniMech fell cutting in the Mech’s jump jets to slow his fall. Below Ruel Chistu could see the Mountain Wolves and Kell Hounds Mercenary Command were waiting for him, it was fine, and he was ready for them. As the Turkina landed on the ground Chistu righted the ninety-five ton Mech and saw his target. Immediately Ruel Chistu opened fire with his OmniMech’s particle cannons, long range missiles and autocannons. The weapons fire flew over the heads of most of the defenders instead flying straight into the Kell Family Home. Across the battle line Jade Falcon warriors followed suit all of them targeting the Kell Family’s home this strike was intentional it was designed to rock the defenders and strike a psychological blow.
As they fired on the Kell Family home the defenders were given a clean shot on the Falcon warriors Ruel Chistu’s Mech included but the Khan was ready to absorb the blows bending his Turkina’s knees dipping its shoulder his ninety-five ton Mech absorbed the enemy fire. Raising back up Chistu surveyed the field he saw Wolves, Hounds and other mercenary forces the Jade Falcon Watch had been correct the Star League forces were not here. “Target the Hounds let’s see how much fire the Wolves will allow them to take! Ignore Zellbrigen these Dezgra scum do not deserve it.†He called out the Jade Falcons had ten Clusters the defenders he knew did not even counting the unhired mercenary units on the planet the Falcons. Ruel Chistu targeted a Kell Hound Warhammer pounding the heavy Mech with missiles and autocannon fire spraying it with fire moments later he hit the Mech with his Turkina’s particle cannons. Both of the particle cannons burned through holes created by the autocannons along the heavy Mechs lower chest the warrior did not wait replying with its particle cannons and missiles cutting into the Turkina. An alarm activated screaming to Ruel that part of the Turkina’s armour had taken a pounding but it held.
Stepping forward Chistu triggered his weapons again blasting the Warhammer with his autocannons again before leaping his OmniMech into the air. As he flew Chistu watched a group of Jade Falcon Elementals swarm the Warhammer, conventional Clan combat tactics were being ignored. As he landed his Mech Chistu searched for another target finding a Mountain Pack Hunter BattleMech Chistu smiled as he watched his long range missiles slam into the light Mech tearing off the Mech’s left leg knocking it to the ground. Stepping forward Chistu aimed down at the Pack Hunter and blasted the downed Mech with both particle cannons tearing the light Mech to pieces. Glancing up he saw a Kraken XR BattleMech marching with intent through Kell Hound lines blasting a Phoenix Hawk before walking straight at the remains of the Kell family home. “Rendezvouz at point zero†he ordered the Falcons were taking heavy damage but the battle was turning for them the Kell Hounds, Mountain Wolves and others were trying to make their way through Falcon lines attempting to withdraw from the now ruined Kell Family Home which was now burning. Chistu saw another target a Mountain Wolf Warhawk striding against the flow of the retreating Mountain Wolves standing opposite the Jade Falcon Khan. The Mech looked damaged but operational, much like Chistu’s Mech, the Jade Falcon Khan reached for his radio controls opening to a wide communication channel. “I am Ruel Chistu, Khan of the Jade Falcons; identify yourself and why you think you can challenge me.â€
“I am Star Commander Melina Wolf a MechWarrior of Clan Mountain Wolf, I defend this world, and this is my home.†The female MechWarrior said Ruel Chistu tried not to laugh the woman was not even a bloodnamed warrior.
“I will allow you the opportunity to leave this battle without the loss of honour†he offered her.
“I allow you to leave this system without loss of honour†she countered
“I cannotâ€
“And I cannot leave this battle†Melina said
“So be it this is a Circle of Equals may no other enter.â€
“May no other enter†she said before they both uttered the word “Seyla†completing the ritual. Immedately the two Mechs began to circle each other the Mountain Wolf Warhawk was lighter than Chistu’s Turkina by ten tons, it lacked the jump jets of the Turkina but it was also faster and well armed. Particle cannon blasts from both Mechs criss-crossed the battlefield striking each of the Mechs as they continued to move both MechWarriors added their long range missile suites with Chistu adding his Mech’s autocannons to the mix blasting sections off of the lighter Mech. As Melina struck the Turkina with three of her four particle cannons Chistu launched his Mech into the air using his OmniMech’s jump jets in mid air Chistu fired both of the autocannons cutting into the Warhawk sandblasting armour off the Wolf OmniMech with the shotgun-styled autocannons. The shots blasted armour off the eighty-five ton Mech but did little else as the flying Turkina fell to the ground its stumbled forward Chistu unable to control the Mech properly. This gave the Wolf MechWarrior an opportunity targeting the back of the Turkina she fired two particle cannon blasts into the Turkina’s back forcing the Jade Falcon Mech into a further stumble its armour gone and its gyroscope damaged.
“Stavag†Chistu cursed twisting and turning his Mech’s torso blasting the Warhawk with his autocannons. More particle blasts tore into OmniMech’s arm shredding it reducing the autocannons mounted there into dead weight. Turning his Mech Chistu let loose with both long range missile launchers striking the Warhawk with a salvo of missiles almost all of which went completely wide of their mark. Chistu screamed in frustration looking at the Wolf Mech marching forward firing his own particle cannons at the same moment the Warhawk fired both Mechs were connected for a moment as the particle cannons burned through the OmniMech’s armour. One of the particle cannon beams cored the Turkina’s cockpit completely killing the Jade Falcon leader immediately.
The blow to the Falcon leadership was a minor one however the Jade Falcons had dropped directly on top of the Kell Family residence securing it and the surrounding Kell Hound base of operations. More than two Battalions of Hounds lay dead at the Jade Falcons feet with far less of the invaders joining them. Within hours of their initial success the Jade Falcons had successfully moved on and secured Old Connaught, the planetary capital, forcing the defenders to retreat to other cities including the Mountain Wolf Enclave, Wolf City. A further blow to Arc Royal’s defence is that Duchess Megan Kell the Duchess of Arc Royal, Colonel Christian Kell the commander of the Kell Hounds, saKhan Declan Kerensky and Loremaster Otto Sradac has all been killed in the Jade Falcon assault. All had been present inside the Kell Family Residence during the attack and none had been seen since the Kell Hound, Mountain Wolf had retreated.
The combined forces of the Lyrans, Mountain Wolves, mercenary forces and SLDF outnumber the Jade Falcons significantly but with the Jade Falcons holding onto Old Connaught the First Battle of Arc Royal is considered to be a victory for the Jade Falcons. In orbit the Werewolf and Inflexable retreat from planetary orbit surrendering it to the two Jade Falcon WarShips neither of the Not everything had gone the way of th Jade Falcons however of the ten clusters that Khan Ruel Chistu had led to the system three had been completely destroyed while another was folded into the other units to bring them upto strength. In orbit both WarShips were damaged but operational while both Mountain Wolf vessels were in the same condition leading to a stalemate.
Scout Mission
Crellacor, Independent System
Corward Periphery
28th February 3105
Bruno Scholle shuffled back slightly from the observation points heavily camouflaged ‘view port’ until he could sit up. The red and yellow mud and sand rectangle was his camp, home and sanctuary and would be for another week until he was picked up when the SLS Oste returned and a shuttle was sent for him and his team. Like the other Peter class Scouts the ship was often attached to Special Forces for operations its small size making it more than capable of slipping into a system not noticed by all but the most sophisticated sensor systems.
For the past eight months the Oste had been skirting the edges of the Clan OZ’s, scouting out, listening and watching and now on Crellacor they’d finally found something interesting. And something not Clan. Rather a makeshift Pirate base, complete with a crude and hard packed dirt landing strip and it was evidently some form of transfer point sat atop a small mesa in part of a dried out seabed. In the six days he’d been on the world after being dropped off with other members of his squad by shuttle after the Oste had detected faint radio transmissions from the surface of Crellacor VI’s primary moon. They’d ‘enjoyed’ a brisk 30-mile march thankful of their PA(L) armour, of which Bruno’s now sat deactivated at the back of his hide. Crellacor was a late stage Red Giant, and even at this distance the sun’s heat and radiation had killed off most of the life on the surface save for large and hardy cactus like plants and lichens that helped give the planet its thin and barely breathable atmosphere. Otherwise the moon was a dust ball of no significant note other than it was simply out of the way, in a system that no one cared about.
Two days ago a pair of dropships hand come in, a Gazelle that had seen better days perhaps some time in the late 2900’s and an even older spheroid design that he’d risked powering up his Tornado PA(L) suit to let its warbook ID it. Turned out it was a Manatee class ship, IFF saying she was the Queen Anne’s Revenge. Bruno had noted that one in his log, assuming that Queen Anne was some new Pirate leader in the region.
Through powerful magnoculars he was able to see cargo being moved off the Gazelle whilst a quartet of Mech’s started walking the perimeter. Amongst the Gazelle’s cargo was the shape and heat bloom of human’s, slaves and prisoners no doubt.
“Boss, you see this? There must be at least two hundred people down there.†A faint voice in Bruno’s ear said. It was his number 2, Jean Simmonds.
“Yeah I see them. But I also see two Bug’s, a Centurion and a Warhammer, no matter how old they are, there’s six of us and at least four hundred Pirates.â€
“Four hundred and sixty three.†Another voice spoke up. That was the squads number 3, Eddie Schultz who had never quite lost his Jamaican accent despite being in the SAS for 10 years now.
“I stand corrected, so we mark this site, mark the ships and hopefully we can catch these bastards or the Clanners can. We knew this part of space would be lousy with Pirates and we’ve found a nest of them now.â€
Bruno was about to suggest they start breaking up their individual hides when a small flashing light caught his eye. It was a seismic sensor and it was picking up something.
“Mark eyes on my location, do you see anything?â€
“Negative boss, wait one.â€
Bruno was crawling towards the view port of his hide, dug into the hard dirt of the moon, the entrance covered by camo-netting that perfectly mimicked the surrounding foliage and ground cover as well as being a near as perfect IR and EM blocker. To anyone who even got within a few meters it would just look like another bit of foliage and rock on this miserable, red skied lump of rock.
“Hush!â€
The Hush alert was an indicator that something was nearby. Bruno killed his hides electrics with a twitch of his boot, it was resting on the small fuel cell’s battery. Outside it was night, or as night as the moon got, what with the huge sun’s glare reflecting off the gas giant the moon orbited as well as its dull red glare filling the sky but a shadow then fell over the entrance to the hide and he heard a heavy thud of a footfall, and then more.
Adjusting his position slightly the SAS Commando looked to his left and up, looking at a crimson and black painted leg of a eight meter tall proto-mech. The machine was humanoid in form despite its equine head and folded wings. They were miles away from the Pirate camp and he doubted the sensors on the old droppers would have picked them up. The Pirates simply didn’t seem to care about security, not on this desolate world.
The proto slowly dropped to one knee, its head turning as it looked at the distant base. It then emitted a short electronic blurt that somehow sounded organic as it ended with a snort of vented air from the head’s ‘nostrils’ and then the ground started to shake. Lean canine shapes moved past the hide, not brazenly painted but instead painted in tan and blonds, some with black striping, one a solid black.
Bruno knew them from briefings, they were Procyon Quad’s and he had to admit that they were MUCH more scary up close. They moved in a way that no machine simply should, it was too organic, too fluid. There didn’t even seem to be the soft hiss and hum of joints moving and he watched as the metal of their legs moved and shifted strangely although clearly artificial they had a grace that few Mechs could match Bruno guessed it had something to do with the Enhanced Imaging implants worn by the Clan warriors who piloted these craft.
Two Stars of Procyon’s moved past his hide, spreading out, keeping low and in what little cover there was, letting out metallic sounding yet also organic noises, soft grunts, low growls or hyena like ‘laughs’.
Bruno let out a breath he didn’t realise he’d been holding as the big Proto near him started moving off, its footfalls joined by others as its Star mates moved with it, two Minotaur’s and another pair of horse headed brutes, one with a missile pack strapped to each arm.
“Ho-le-shit…Boss, you okay?â€
Jean said. She’d been watching the Clan machines moving past Bruno’s hide and then deploy into a broad arc facing the base.
“Jah..i’m okay..glad I wore the brown underwear today…get an eye on any unit markings?â€
“Negative, they have no markings, just weird paint schemes, those Pyro’s look real.â€
“Damn right…****** scary, not seen one up close.â€
“One this is four.â€
“Go ahead.â€
“Movement at my position, some kind of quad battle armour three points strong, I got some good pics and am monitoring nowâ€
“Stay safe Vlad.â€
“Roger.â€
The Pirates didn’t know what hit them until the Manatee’s sensors picked up a volley of LRM’s inbound and the crewman on watch pressed the alert switch, not that it was needed as the missiles raked across the bases quarters where many of the Pirates were staying. A simple collection of metal huts, some were just repurposed freight containers. Whatever they were made of it wasn’t enough as they exploded in bright blooms of fire as well as puffs of metallic and human fragments.
It was late and many of the Pirates had been drinking or spending time with some of the ladies on camp, or more unfortunately their prisoners and caught by surprise there was little reaction from them save the odd blurt of gunfire. With ten Procyon’s and a mixed Command unit coming from one side the fifteen Buraq’s that had sprinted round the rear of the encampment moved in, metallic hooves kicking up puffs of orange dust as they surged forward, machine guns tracking.
The patrolling Pirate Mechs were the initial target and the Clan Protomech’s and the Stinger went down under a flurry of shots from the Procyon’s before the pilot could even get the Mech’s laser swung round to face them. The next Mech, an archaic looking Locust was ripped to shreds by sustained gunfire before its pilot even got moving. The Centurion went down fighting, with the Procyon’s running through the base camp firing at anything or just swiping at it with their clawed paws the Centurion moved to engage and met the Command Star. Although it out massed the Proto’s the Centurion’s protection was roughly equal to one of the smaller Machines and its pilot had no clue about how Proto’s fought or moved.
The heavy CHUG-CHUG-CHUG of the Mech’s autocannon rolled over the mesa as the Protomech’s moved to engage. Even at the distance from the camp the whine of thrusters could be heard as the two Svartalfa’s unfolded their wings, darting between the buildings and tents at high speed with a grace that was impressive and scary to watch. The Centurion didn’t last long, the Pilot seemed to panic when he hit a Minotaur with his cannon and it just got up and resumed firing. The Mech turned to flee but its back was ripped open by laser and missile fire, its ammunition igniting with a thunderclap as two tonnes of missiles and projectiles went up, the sound and shock hitting Bruno’s hide a second after the flash.
Even as the Warhammer tried to flee the Clanner’s were swarming over the dropships. One Svartalfa landed on the Gazelle’s nose, its lasers pumping shot after shot into the glass on the bridge before cutting through, the distant rattle of machine gun fire joining the muted electronic buzz of the lasers.
The Buraq’s were sprinting around the grounded Manatee, some idiot on the dropship had yet to haul its cargo ramps in and the battlesuits thundered inside, machine guns blazing.
“Jesus…efficient bastards ain’t they..â€
“Roger that, all points are you recording this?â€
“Yes boss.â€
In the camp the Clan Protomech’s and elementals were moving with a purpose, hunting down the last of the pirates, not even accepting the surrender of those who threw aside their weapons, the final pockets of resistance being crushed, quite literally in some cases by rapid blurts of machine gun fire of pulses of laser light that cut the Pirates into unrecognizable chunks.
The only thing they spared was the prisoners, the Minotaur’s ripping open the cages and cells they were held in whilst in the distance the Procyon’s ran down the Warhammer, darting around its legs, APGR’s ripping through the ancient Mech’s armour, laming it with shots to its legs whilst the pilot tried to defend himself against his darting opponents.
One Procyon took a PPC blast and staggered, bleeding smoke, emitting an animalistic yowl as it withdrew, but it was the only success the Warhammer had. One volley of fire bit deep into its back and hit something vital as sparks and black smoke belched from the damaged Mech before it fell, firing wildly as it did, the muffled thump of 70’s of Mech slamming onto its chest barely carrying over to the SAS’s hides.
With the camp seemingly pacified the SAS watched as the final pirates were rounded up, their observation equipment was the best available and they could see everything as the pirates were herded into the crippled Gazelle, there could not have been more than a few dozen of them, many were walking wounded, some were even carrying their comrades with them.
“They’re letting them go?â€
“Nah..see that venting on the port wing?â€
“No, but I can see something on the starboard.â€
Before anyone else could speak there was a bright antic flash and a dull WHUMP as the dropships fuel was ignited. With the fuel cells left open the fuel in the wings was starting to boil at the sudden pressure difference and venting out of the fueling ports in the wings. The liquid hydrogen was turning into a rapidly expanding cloud and all it would take was a spark. Or in this case a laser strike.
The fireball lit up the surrounding area and the blast ripped the Gazelle to pieces, multi-ton chunks of dropship being flung into the cold night. The concussion smashed into the Manatee and the old dropship tumbled as one of its landing legs gave way, the ancient ship flopping onto its side, looking like a beached whale next to the blazing crater that marked the funeral pyre of the Gazelle.
With the landing area wrecked the ProtoMech’s and equine Elemental’s moved into the camp, flattening what remained whilst freeing any prisoners that were alive.
“Watch it boss, they’re coming your way.â€
“I see it, going cold.â€
The procession made its way across the dunes, escorted by the Proto’s and flanking elementals and Bruno shrunk back into his hide, making sure the electronics were off and the thermal cover was in place. The column of rescued captives trudged past and Bruno could hear them speaking, they were clearly Clanners just from the way they spoke.
“Five miles and we will be at our rendezvous location. A dropship will come and take us, leaving this pyre as a warning to all who would attack us.â€
The voice that blurted out from a towering Svartalfa was strong, full of confidence, and yet it sounded slightly wrong. A Mech’s external speakers did nothing to disguise a voice, but the proto spoke with a distinct metallic cadence and tone to its voice.
There was cheers from the former captives and they kept marching past the Procyon’s coming up the rear, the one that had taken the PPC blast limping along, leaning against another for support, its front right leg a mangled ruin. The SAS observers waited until a distant rumble told them a dropship had taken off before coming out of their hides, working their way down to the ruined Pirate camp.
It was silent save for the crack and pop of burning wood and the odd pop and bang from the blazing Manatee as its ammo finally started cooking off. Near the fallen Stinger the SAS team found an active locator beacon sat at the base of a small pile of severed heads with the symbol of the Hells Horses Clan proudly placed over the macabre display.
“Want me to turn that beacon off boss?â€
“Nah..they wanted to send a message.â€
“Damn..i’d say they sent it loud and clear.â€
“Amen…spread out and look for any information, report back in 2 hours, the Oste will be in system soon and I don’t fancy missing our pick up.â€
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Hope you enjoy the last part (in the periphery) is from marauder648 my thanks for the addition
I'm going to work on the unit list over the next few days and hopefully do the Jade Falcons and either Horses or Coyotes so you have an idea of what's going on with them.
Note Arc Royal is not captured it's contested.
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Finally time for some fiction. My thanks to James Tanaga for the Rim Collection section.
Border fighting
Great Gorge, Crucis March
Federated Suns Periphery
3rd March 3105
Fighting continues along the Federated Suns/Nova Cat border as Clan Nova Cat spread into the Federated Sun’s Great Gorge system and two independent periphery systems. However the Nova Cat successes come at a price as elements of the First Tikonov Cossacks RCT move on the Nova Cat held worlds of Sodetalke and Maram. In all cases of the fighting between the Nova Cats and Federated Suns are fought within the realm of Trials of Possession.
Main Hall, Jade Falcon command
Incukalns, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
7th March 3105
There was a continuous click on the floor as a pair of boots marched into the main hall of the Jade Falcon command room on Incukalns. Khan of the Jade Falcons Jana Pryde looked up and saw Khan Teresia Cooper, the large Elemental commander of the Hell’s Horses Clan, approach.
“Welcome to Incukalns Khan Teresia Cooperâ€
“Thank you and congratulations Khan Jana Pryde†the older woman replied looking at the young Jade Falcon leader “you are clearly a worthy successor to Ruel Chistu.†She said the Jade Falcon Khan hid her reaction quickly but Teresia knew that she didn’t think much of the Hell’s Horses Khan’s endorsement. “As required of us we have surrendered Atocongo to your forces and we have seized Hamilton from the Sea Foxes.â€
“The Foxes were not expecting your Horde Quineg?â€
“Neg they were not†Teresia said proudly “you are tightening your grip on Arc Royal Quiaff?â€
“Slowly†Jana Pryde said “the Mountain Wolves attempted to reinforce their positions but they were not ready for the Emerald Talon two clusters of Wolves died at her guns.†She said proudly.
“A dishonourable death and I hear that your other WarShip bombarded the surface of Arc Royal Quiaff?†Teresia Cooper asked testing.
“Aff, the Falcon’s Nest detected a grouping of the 789th Striker Brigade on the planet it was an opportunity we could not ignore.†Jana Pryde said defensively.
“A dishonourable tactic†Teresia Cooper commented not a challenge but another testing comment.
“For Dezgra Star League forces and for Dezgra Mountain Wolves†Jana Pryde said angrily tired of the Hell’s Horses leader’s words challenging her to disagree.
“They got what they deserved†Teresia Cooper said deciding not to take her thoughts further.
“Aff they did†Jana Pryde agreed “and now to your visit?â€
“Aff we are preparing to expand our holdings†Teresia Cooper said “many of my Clan find Sudeten a tempting target†she said naming the Falcon’s capitol system. “I am sure that you have detected the build up of our forces Quiaff?†Jana Pryde nodded “I am here to assure you that we have no hostile intent towards the Falcon holdings instead we will be striking at Summit, Grundwald and Kandersteg.â€
“Pushing into the Commonwealth?â€
“Which should keep the Lyran reinforcements busy†Teresia Cooper said “our Clans can work together to strengthen each other and the Clan position in the Inner Sphere†she promised the other Khan.
“And in turn Jade Falcon trader’s can pass on the benefits to you Clan quiaff?†Jana Pryde asked realizing what the Hell’s Horses leader wanted. Following the Horses assault on Hamilton Clan Sea Fox would likely push the Horses to unreasonable levels for trade in the future if the Falcons acted as an intermediary then the Horses could continue to gain supplies such as Harjel.
“Indeed†Teresia Cooper confirmed “if neither of us attacks each other then our enemies cannot stand against us.â€
“I will be interested to see how your Horde Clusters perform in your attacks.†Jana Pryde admitted the Horde formations were gradually taking over the Hell’s Horses Clan. They were built around speed and firepower intent on overwhelming an enemy target quickly.
Carlyle Family Residence, family room
Castle Hill, Glengarry
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
18th March 3105
The guards stepped to one side allowing the warrior to step into the main family room Baroness von Glengarry Dana Carlyle looked up and her face immediately brightened. “Marc…†she whispered taking several steps towards him.
“I am glad to see you are well Baroness Carlyle†he said addressing her formally.
“You don’t need to be so formal Marcâ€
“I wish to apologize to you Baroness for your time with Clan Wolf….†He said opening his mouth to continue but instead Dana stepped in and kissed him for the first time since he’d smuggled her back to the Lyran Commonwealth. “I’m sorry for what you had to go through†he said breaking off their embrace.
“Shut up†she said pulling him with her into a side room inside were two cots side by side inside were two baby children “Vlad and Marielle†she said introducing them “our children. We have a lot to discuss.†She said within two weeks Marc and Dana were married on Glengarry before Marc returned to the SLDF to continue his training and induction into the Star League Defence Force.
Training Range
Sandhurst Military Academy, England
Terra, Star League Protectorate
24th March 3105
“You are clear to move when ready†the range controller said Prince Burton Davion breathed deeply flexing his artificial left arm before reaching for the controls of the Black Watch OmniMech. He wasn’t a massive fan of the Inner Sphere OmniMech but it was the same tonnage as his own Templar so he was comfortable enough with the design as a first run in a Mech with his arm since the artificial replacement had been fitted.
Stepping the Black Watch forward Burton was amazed at the response he felt through his left arm he’d expected the sensation to feel different but it felt completely natural moving the Mech forward from its bay. Turning the Black Watch to the right with his foot Burton turned the BattleMech out of the bay he walked it into the sunlight. “Work with me baby†he whispered accelerating the Mech to a full walk at thirty-five kilometres per hour turning it to the left and to the right turning the Black Knight with his feet. That was the easy part he thought glancing at his left arm turning the Mech was easy it used his feet and his own sense of balance now for the hard part twisting his artificial left arm he twisted the Mech’s torso to the left and then to the right. “Nice†he thought turning the Mech to the right in a wide circle he twisted his Mech’s torso style torso to the right and then to the left again testing it. “Knight One to RCR release target one†he said contacting the Range Control Room.
Moments later a Savannah hover craft moved into range twisting the Mech’s torso he tracked the small hovercraft with his left arm mounted light gauss rifle refining the target he fired a shot with the weapon obliterating the light hovercraft. Burton smiled with satisfaction seeing the small remote controlled craft erupt into fire. “Push it up a bit†he said into the radio now two stationary box targets raised in the distance as well as another Savannah. Burton immediately pulled the trigger on the left joystick sending another gauss shot towards the new Savannah his shot went wide allowing the hovercraft to close on his position the simulated laser shots striking his Mech’s thick hide “com’on!†The prince said frustrated looking at the arm he knew it wasn’t his arm’s fault he was just out of practice. “Screw you†he said opening up on the hovercraft with the Mech’s Medium Range Missile launcher the forty missiles blanketed the area blasting the side of the hovercraft open. He then squared his Black Watch’s shoulders and opened fire on the stationary targets with the rotary autocannon spraying fire over the stationary targets knocking them both down. “RCR up the tempo!†Burton called out wanting a proper challenge suddenly four QuadMechs appeared on his sensors they were all the same design his warbook tagging them as Revenants. “Now we’re talking†he said two of the Mechs were staying back while the other two were charging in running at over ninety kilometres per hour within moments they were in weapons range each firing green extended range medium lasers. Three of the lasers struck his Mech’s armour burning down the side of the assault BattleMech. Burton glanced at the damage schematic and noticed armour was missing from the Mech’s lower torso and left leg. “RCR confirm we’ve gone live fire?†He asked firing the rotary autocannon into one of the drones ripping its front left leg completely off in a single sustained barrage.
“You did say up the tempo sir†RCR replied “this is the first tier live fire. They are designed to aim for your Mech’s legs.†He said which meant to Burton that the weapons were not designed to kill him just disable his Mech.
“That’s comforting†Burton replied as the second pair of QuadMechs were moving on his position joining the remaining Mech from the first wave. Burton twisted his Black Watch’s torso launching another salvo of medium range missiles this time at the second Mech from the first wave he then fired the light gauss rifle at ne of the other Mechs causing heavy damage to the QuadMech. Accelerating the Black Watch forward as more medium lasers and pulse lasers struck the lower torso of the OmniMech. Stepping close to one of the remaining Revenants he opened fire with the rotary autocannon tearing open the light Mech with a continuous stream of led suddenly he heard the metal slamming against metal sound of the autocannon jamming but he also saw the Revenant fall to the ground. The remaining two Mechs closed on the Black Watch but both were damaged he opened up with his gauss rifle again ripping off the legs of another Revenant finishing it off with the medium pulse lasers nestled in the centre torso of his OmniMech. The last remaining Revenant charged in firing its lasers and machine guns as it charged in Burton’s Mech shook heavily as it was riddled with laser and machine gun fire. “I don’t think so†Burton whispered blasting the Mech with his medium range missile launcher and pulse lasers cutting down the damaged QuadMech.
“Range Control Room to Knight One, we can load next scenario if you wish, after this round it becomes progressively more difficult.â€
“Understood†Burton said glancing at his Mech’s status the Mech’s armour was mostly intact the most damage done was around the legs and lower torso but the autocannon was jammed and he’d used ammo on all three of his main weapons. “I think I’ll call it quits for now†he said “out of curiosity how many more rounds are there?â€
“Three more rounds after this one†the RCR operator reported “a single warrior can manage the first two live fire rounds but the highest two rounds are recommended for a full lance.â€
“Now you’re just tempting me RCR†Burton said turning his Mech back towards the Mechbay “maybe in the future I’ll take up your challenge but for now I’m due a dinner date with my wife and if I miss it I’ll be under a lot more fire than your ranges can ever put out.†He said the RCR operators replied with a round of laughter ‘just like the boys at home’ the Prince thought.
High Orbit
El Dorado, Crucis March
Federated Suns
28th March 3105
High above the world of El Dorado near the world’s moon Boulder a crippled Davion II-class Destroyer flashed into existence. The majority of the vessel’s armour and weapons were gone its engines completely dark and atmosphere streamed from the majority its decks slowly the WarShip began to spin out of control as two DropShip, one of the DropShips was a Lung Wang-class Assault DropShip while the other was a Fortress-class vessel, both undocked as six aerospace fighters launched from the crippled WarShip. The vessels and aerospace fighters immediately turned towards the planet below on their sides was a strange emblem with a Sunburst covered in two crossed dao blades. As the force entered the planet’s atmosphere the WarShip continued to spin out of control caught in Boulder’s gravitational pull it fell into the moon’s atmosphere exploding in the nitrogen-carbon dioxide atmosphere.
Diving down over the planet’s capital the two DropShips dropped BattleMechs on-top of the militia base near the capital of Oro forcing the defenders out. With the Lung Wang and aerospace fighter flying in circles around the facility threatening to bombard the base below them they quickly taking the part-timer defenders by surprise forcing them from the base with barely a shot fired before landing and occupying the base in the name of Warrior House Sortek for the Confederated Suns under Chancellor’s Edict 14. A confused message to New Avalon from El Dorado states the capital has been seized by the Capellan Confederation with the Seventh New Avalon Guards RCT on the continent of Sante Fe and out of position to assist.
RCS Providence (Fox Block III-class Repair Ship)
Orbit of All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
30th March 3105
Natasha Faraday leaned against the wall of the observatory room as she looked at the screens which looked over the Rim Collection’s newest WarShip, the RCS Firetender. The Isis-class Scout Carrier, a Lyran product, would soon be joining the Rim Collection Naval Touman after nearly a year of being completely torn apart and then rebuilt; all just to ensure the Lyrans hadn’t left or built any unfortunate “surprises†into the design.
She shook her head absent-minded at that. To assuage the Lyrans, the Rim Collection officially was using it as an exercise. Still it had its uses, or so Matthew Davion had informed her and Redburn earlier. Something about a possible omni-capable warship, the Federated Suns-born Sovereign Regent had informed them with the aerospace fighter bays possibly being able to be removed and replaced with BattleMech or Battle Armour transport bays if required, though it would take a lot of work. If true, it meant the Rim Collection would have a nasty surprise for its enemies should they come calling.
Something she knew would happen, sooner or later. The Rim Collection had begun to recover from the short, but brutal civil war; its military was still being rebuilt. Eleven clusters had been destroyed in the conflict and while her Clan hadn’t lost any completely, most of their units were still under-strength. Worse, those at full strength were deployed to the borders, intent on keeping a visible guard against the Spirits and Lyrans meaning that should their guard fall the interior of the Rim Collection, and her entire Clan, would be at risk.
To combat that, Redburn had made the ad hoc units she had led to Gillfillan’s Gold full active units within the Rim Collection Armed Forces. The very same units were now being deployed publicly. All part to show the Rim Collection’s martial strength and understate the true cost the civil war had to its armed forces.
Since the civil war, the Rim Collection intelligence community had worked overtime in an attempt to do just that. The forty-thousand civilian casualties trickled down to a more manageable ten thousand. The eleven clusters destroyed had morphed into a still hurting six. Those “missing†Guards and Lancer clusters were merely re-designated militia clusters was the official reason.
And she finally had confirmation they had achieved their mission, courtesy of a Lyran intelligence report given to the Collection via the FedSuns. The Lyran Intelligence Corps report stated they did not know what to make of the Collection’s martial strength, citing numerous discrepancies, except that either her own nation’s intelligence services were either effectively hiding its combat losses (true) or that the Collection’s martial strength were larger then what was reported (false) and possibly even both. The fact the report also stated the Corps’ own agents in the Collection was next to nil due to continued Rim Collection Security Services operations meant the Lyrans had to rely on the Federated Suns and Star League Defence Force for information, a fact the young Khan knew the Lyrans disliked.
Yet the same intelligence report had given her pause. The Lyrans had found out about two deployments Natasha Faraday wished to keep quiet. The first she reluctantly allowed herself to mentally shrug at, for she knew it was only a matter of time before the Lyrans had learnt the Collection was continuing to honor its obligations to Erdvynn Province to help police it against pirate forces. Still, she hadn’t expected the Lyrans to catch on as quickly as they did. It was the second deployment that made her pause.
From the SLDF, the Lyrans had found out the Rim Collection, specifically her clan, had a limited force on Tukayyid to safeguard a new factory her clan had been allowed to set up on the capital world of the Inner Sphere Clans, as well as conduct Trials against the Mandrill’s sibling Clans. It made for what she expected to become a very touchy situation. Yet the report did state the Lyrans themselves were unlikely to do anything about it, so while the report gave her pause, it also allowed her to rest at ease.
“Penny for your thoughts, Khan,†President Damien Redburn’s voice broke Natasha from her thoughts.
“More like a Kerensky,†she replied deadpanned as she continued to look at the large screens covering the new ship.
“Your clan finally came to its senses concerning the Firetender, I take it,†he asked from behind her.
“Aff,†she reluctantly acknowledged as she glared at the ship on the screens.
“I just had a very enlightening conversation with Archon Jessica Steiner via HPG,†he informed her a moment later. “She said to pass on the importance of a peaceful, quiet border between our two nations to you. I take it there won’t be any problems with your Clan?â€
“Neg,†she answered back. “The Crusader faction is pragmatic about our current situation to let that particular border be quiet, at least for now.†She thought the rebuilding Rim Collection had enough to worry about from raiders and from the Stone Spirits to worry about attacking the Lyrans weakened border.
“Good,†he acknowledged. Another moment passed as both watched the screens for a moment she turned to properly face him for the first time.
“I noticed Rim Motors has begun producing a rough analog of our Kirghiz-G OmniMech, specifically the Prime configuration,†she half accused, causing him to nod.
“It’s a very rough analog, yes. We have designed it to operate in the planned Militia CCT’s. We’ve taken to calling them Kirghiz-M’s,†he answered back. “And they aren’t OmniMechs. They are pure BattleMechs, through and through. Still advanced but compared to your Kirghiz-G, the M is much more primitive.â€
She nodded at his answer. “What of the Snow Fox OmniMechs? I have heard some rambling you have allowed Kindraa Stewart to start providing stealth armor to Rim Motors.â€
“I have,†he admitted to her. “Leonard Stewart gave me the idea and asked for permission, which I agreed. It seems that it’s a perfect platform for their stealth armor. Rim Motors have taken to re-designating the design the Shadow Fox should testing go well we should be able to deploy it by the end of the year.â€
“Personally I agree as well. Yet your decision on having my Clan provide Kindraa Stewart with 300XL engines to produce the Ghost BattleMech on Timbuktu is worrisome, at least to conservative elements within,†she warned him.
“And what if I ask your Clan to provide technical assistance to House Stewart to jump-start their project to produce a new battle armor for the Collection? One that uses stealth armor,†Damien half-asked.
“You will be met with resistance, though so long as the battle armor is kept to only Rim Collection federal and SpecOp forces, you know my Clan will reluctantly allow it,†she surmised openly they couldn’t afford to alienate the Mandrills from the Collection.
“And if House Stewart agrees to provide your Clan with a percentage of their production,†he asked, smiling.
“Much less resistance,†was her predatory answer knowing it would help rebuild her Clan quickly.
“Good,†he answered back, putting his arms behind his back as he looked down on Natasha. “I trust your Clan will see the value of House Stewart receiving the necessary technical assistance in the coming days, quiaff,†he asked, using the Clan word to highlight the importance of this decision. Having a homegrown battle armour design would help their nation even if it took a couple of years to perfect it.
“Aff,†she acknowledged, looking into Redburn’s eyes.
“Then I’ll take my leave, Khan,†he remarked, waving his hand to gesture at the RCS Firetender, before turning to leave, leaving the young Fire Mandrill Khan once more to her thoughts as she turned to stare once more on the Isis-class scout carrier on the screens in front of them.
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High Orbit
El Dorado, Crucis March
Federated Suns
28th March 3105
High above the world of El Dorado near the world’s moon Boulder a crippled Davion II-class Destroyer flashed into existence. The majority of the vessel’s armour and weapons were gone its engines completely dark and atmosphere streamed from the majority its decks slowly the WarShip began to spin out of control as two DropShip, one of the DropShips was a Lung Wang-class Assault DropShip while the other was a Fortress-class vessel, both undocked as six aerospace fighters launched from the crippled WarShip. The vessels and aerospace fighters immediately turned towards the planet below on their sides was a strange emblem with a Sunburst covered in two crossed dao blades. As the force entered the planet’s atmosphere the WarShip continued to spin out of control caught in Boulder’s gravitational pull it fell into the moon’s atmosphere exploding in the nitrogen-carbon dioxide atmosphere.
Diving down over the planet’s capital the two DropShips dropped BattleMechs on-top of the militia base near the capital of Oro forcing the defenders out. With the Lung Wang and aerospace fighter flying in circles around the facility threatening to bombard the base below them they quickly taking the part-timer defenders by surprise forcing them from the base with barely a shot fired before landing and occupying the base in the name of Warrior House Sortek for the Confederated Suns under Chancellor’s Edict 14. A confused message to New Avalon from El Dorado states the capital has been seized by the Capellan Confederation with the Seventh New Avalon Guards RCT on the continent of Sante Fe and out of position to assist.
Here we go into the Empires Aflame universe !!!!
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More like out Empires Aflame this little bit is the only step into that universe I'll be taking although it might be enough to cause some problems
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Occupied Militia Base, Oro
El Dorado, New Avalon Operational Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
7th April 3105
Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek looked out at the regiments of BattleMechs and armoured vehicles arrayed around the militia base every single one of them without fail had the insignia of the defunct Federated Suns and wore the flag of New Avalon and a number “7†she had no idea what unit these people were claiming to be but there was no unit from the occupied New Avalon that had ever had these markings that she knew of. A single Armoured Personnel Carrier escorted by two medium BattleMechs approached the base one of the Mechs each carrying a white flag of truce. “Allow them to approach†Imarra ordered brushing her short dark hair off of her face and back behind her ear considering the numbers surrounding the fire base they couldn’t fight them with a force of arms she moved down to the ground level exiting the base.
The BattleMechs and vehicle stopped short of the base and a single figure followed by two strange extra-large Infiltrator II suits exited and approached. “That’s close enough†Imarra Sortek called “I am Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek, what right do you have to surround our base?â€
“I am Marshal Duncan Goddard, what right do you have to occupy a base of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns?†He said she looked him over he was at least ten years older than her forty-two years and he was obviously not a hand-to-hand fighter and given his build she guessed he was a tanker.
“The Federated Suns…?†Imarra repeated “the Federated Suns has been gone for eighty years despite what Kathil believes.â€
“Kathil?†Goddard said quietly “lady, I don’t know what universe you think you’re in but New Avalon determines the fate of the Federated Suns.â€
“New Avalon is occupied by the Combine!†Imarra said angrily Goddard visibly rocked on his feet at the words looking back at her. “My unit retreated here trying to reclaim the lost lands of the Sortek family and to release Elder Bishop Sortek from captivity. We will not surrender this fire base if anyone approaches this base we will fire on them. I want a JumpShip to take us back to Sian.â€
“Sian!†Goddard exclaimed a hint of anger in his voice. He took a single step closer “listen very carefully my people will not fire on this base or anyone here I don't plan on ruining a perfectly good base because someone got a little lost so as long as you do not fire on us we won't shoot at you.†He said making his point clear “as for a JumpShip that will be up to First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion.â€
“Steiner-Davion?†Imarra Sortek whispered hearing a combination of the Succession State leaders that she’d never heard before. Even in the Hegemony she didn't think that combination existed how this man though that two families on opposite sides of the Inner Sphere could be merged was beyond her. He would have been better trying to convince her that it was a Kurita-Davion or a Calderon-Davion on the throne.
“Yes, the First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion leader of the Federated Suns†he said sounding completely convinced as he climbed back into the APC the two Battle Armour troopers quickly joined him. Imarra stood and watched as the APC and two BattleMechs retreated from the fire base the other units not moving working through what he had said how could any of it be true? How could the Federated Suns still exist? What of House Liao-Davion? Where the hell had she led her Warrior House?
Border Raids
Sarna Commonality, Capellan Confederation
11th April 3105
Following the miss communication that the Capellan Confederation had seized part of El Dorado four AFFS units launch unauthorized counter-attacks against the Capellan Confederation’s Sarna Commonality striking at three Capellan worlds. These attacks are unsupported by the AFFS High Command and by the end of the month the Capellans have pushed the AFFS units off two of their worlds but fighting continues on the world of Truth. The Capellan also launch attacks against the Federated Suns held worlds of Wei, Shipka, Footfall, Bell and Axton.
While the AFFS and Capellan March Command structures try to rally their troops and hold their territory a bright note for the Federated Suns is announced with the New Syrtis WarShip Shipyards being officially brought back online after years languishing inactive. The operators of the New Syrtis Shipyard plan to build Caliburn-class Battle-cruisers for the Federated Suns at the facility while there is also talk of building a new variant of the New Syrtis-class Fleet Carrier at the rebuild facility.
Thirty-second Star League Games
Solaris VII, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
20th April 3105
For a second year on the bounce Clan Wolf dominate at the Thirty-second Star League Games on Solaris VII. Succeeding Star Colonel Ivan Ward as champion of the Star League Games Star Commander Laurel Carns, of the Fifth Wolf Regulars Cluster, piloting a Timber Wolf OmniMech is victorious beating all others on the game world. As with the previous year riots break out in protest of the Clan Wolf domination of the games but this year it is better controlled by the SLDF forces assigned to the planet and civilian injuries are far less. For several days after the end of the games protests continue calling for an end to the Star League portion of the Solaris Gaming Circuit due to the unfair entry criteria which allows front-line warriors to enter and dominate the contest.
Deep Raid
Yeguas, Jade Falcon OZ
27th April 3105
The world of Yeguas had served since its colonization as a food bank for all of the worlds around it. It’s only product to the Inner Sphere was food, until the arrival of Clan Jade Falcon, now Yeguas was also a supply depot. For the last three months Captain Morgan Christifori of the Star League Defence Force had helped move food shipments by day helping Clan Jade Falcon and by night he had sneaked around behind the Clans back watching the Falcon’s movements looking for weaknesses.
Because he had done nothing overt against the Falcons Christifori had been able to move around barely noticed by the Clan. In the darkness of night a single man could move unnoticed in the shadows most nights all he did was take discreet pictures but tonight was a special night as he moved around the supply depots he had dropped several ultra-violet markers setting the targets. As he stepped out into the light he stopped raising his hands to his mouth concealed in the palm of his hand was a small transmitter “Charlie-Mike, the order is Chimera†he said as a Piranha BattleMech began its patrol.
“Control, confirm commandâ€
“Charlie-Mike-Three-One-Two-Zero-Chimera†he said as the Piranha turned onto his street Morgan discarded the transmitter into the nearby grass revealing a lit cigarette in his mouth as he calmly walked down the street past the Jade Falcon BattleMech. Morgan knew that there was a good possibility that the Falcons would find his transmitter but also that it would act as another homing beacon for the raiding forces.
For months the Star League and Lyran Intelligence Agencies had been marking targets for assault. Lyran, SLDF and mercenary units had been concealed in systems waiting for the order. Morgan and his company had been dragooned by the SLIC because of a lack in manpower for this observation mission. Once on Yeguas they’d been ordered to learn as much as they could about the defences of the world. If it was ready for a raid then Morgan would call it in then his unit would go to ground waiting for the dust to clear before being extracted with the raiding force if no order came then the raiding force, in this case the mercenary command Miller’s Mailed Fist, would sit out in the asteroid belt until the Lyran JumpShip arrived outside the system and collected them.
Now that the command was in Morgan Christifori made his way back to the food plantations winding his way through the small huts that housed the workers to the one his team had used as a safe house. Stepping inside he immediately had a gauss sub-machine gun thrust in his face by his number two Calum Fraser. “No worries Cal it’s me†he said looking at the other man.
“Good to see you†he said Calum, unlike Morgan, was dressed in full SLDF night tactical gear “you are last to return.†He said showing the other four members of their team getting their equipment together.
“Did control dispatch the Mailed Fist?â€
“Their battalion is on the way along with a squadron of aeros from the Eighty-seventh.†He reported naming the elite Special Operations Battalion Morgan’s unit had been officially seconded to.
“Nice of them to send at least something that actually belongs to their unit on this mission.†Morgan said chuckling as he crossed the room looking over his gear “what about team two?†He asked about the other team that were on Yeguas.
“Wrapped up their mission an hour ago they’re in ready position three and are radio silent.†Calum reported Morgan nodded he’d known that already but wanted to make sure nothing had changed. Morgan turned to the other five troopers.
“Here we go people we’re moving out tonight to ready position one†he said he knew that they knew this already but was making absolutely sure. “Miller’s Mailed Fist will hit this rock in sixteen hours assuming they got off the asteroid without a problem. Over the last three months we’ve seen not a single aerospace unit in this system and the ground defences are minimal. Yeguas has not been a problem for the Falcons, that is until today, if we’ve screwed up or the Mailed Fist screw up we’re to high tail it to secondary pick up positions. We’ll wait there until our supplies run out if still no pick up well I’ve heard Yeguas summers are fantastic.†He said bringing a could of light laughs from the other troopers each of them knew that if this mission went south and the Mailed Fist were unable to evacuate them then their only real option would be to wait for one of the Lyrans or SLDF’s Peter-class Scout vessels to arrive to pick them up. Each of them knew there would be little to no chance of them securing transport otherwise and they’d be forced to enjoy living and working on farms for a while the SLIC had made it quite clear to them that they were not to try and incite a rebellion on the world because the Falcons could turn Jaguar and flatten the planet; something the SLDF was not willing to risk.
Fortunately the Miller’s Mailed Fist did not screw up. The mercenaries had dropped according to Morgan’s “Chimera†command splitting into three reinforced units, each with roughly a reinforced company; they had struck all three of the main Jade Falcon supply bases on the continent at once while aerospace fighters from the mercenaries and from the SLDF’s Eighty-seventh Special Operations Battalion had bombed two other bases on another continent. The damage was not crippling, it wasn’t meant to be, instead they had done enough damage to the supplies to disrupt operations and caused enough damage to make the Jade Falcons think about reinforcing things on the planet which might make things easier elsewhere in the future. Before they pulled out Mailed Fist APCs collected both of Morgan’s teams returning them to the mercenary’s DropShips which quickly took off heading back towards the SLIC Asteroid base from there they would refuel and collect the support staff from the base before heading towards the system’s outer reaches where if all went to plan they would meet up with a JumpShip that would take them back to the Lyran Commonwealth.
Nearly two months later the unit and the SLDF troopers arrived back over Arcturus in the Lyran Commonwealth. For Morgan Christifori he personally hoped that after this operation he could get back to “proper soldiering†as his father would have called it. Unfortunately he had a feeling that the SLDF’s current strategy wasn’t calling for much battle-line assignments instead intelligence operations and raids were a more regular occurrence. For the Miller’s Mailed Fist this one operation had netted them enough C-Bills to clear their debts and would allow them to continue bringing their equipment up to a modern standard.
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More like out Empires Aflame this little bit is the only step into that universe I'll be taking although it might be enough to cause some problems
A Warrior House led by a Sortek should cause some problems.
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Border conflicts
Disputed Region
Periphery
8th May 3105
As the Magistracy of Canopus celebrate the birth of Magestix Ilsa Centrella’s third child Duke Albert Centrella the Magistracy of Canopus launches a major push into the disputed region between it and the Marian Hegemony. Many of the worlds recently colonized as humanity spread across the periphery become battle grounds between the two periphery states.
The Magistracy of Canopus successfully claim Sundown, Cronkee, Ealen IV and Green hills while the Marians continue to hold Ruthersburg, Green Hills, Vixen and Monarch. Fighting continues between the two states in a half a dozen other systems while pirate attacks continue to be at their highest in the area for more than thirty years. The result of these increased pirate attacks sees the independent periphery systems of Oquiu and Caramaine abandoned due to the damage caused by pirates. The Magistracy take both dead worlds as protectorates vowing to have both worlds recolonized by the end of the decade.
Clan Council
Council Chambers, City of Andrey
Tukayyid, Independent Clan Territory
14th May 3105
“The Rasalhague Dominion has the strongest of our Toumans which makes them believe that they can flaunt our ways†Khan Carl Heller said angrily looking around the chambers at his fellow Khans. “Clan Coyote holds incontrovertible proof that Clan Ghost Bear has been experimenting with the use of command and coordination software.â€
“That has been used against Inner Sphere targets only†Ragnar Magnesson Khan of the Gost Bears answered.
“You do not even deny it?†Carl Heller said surprised at Magnesson’s admission.
“Neg, I do not deny the truth, Clan Ghost Bear has developed technology to combat the Inner Sphere.â€
“C3 technology?†Khan Teresia Cooper asked curious at Magnesson’s open admission.
“Aff the Inner Sphere has used it against us for years why should we not explore this technology?â€
“Asks a freebirth†Khan Evangeline Clarke said quietly “he forgets to tell us that the Manei Domini used C3 technology…†She said naming the destructive faction.
“Or that the Society still does†Carl Heller stated looking around the other Khans “the Society which took our Homeworlds uses a type of C3 known as the Nova CEWS.†He said looking around them “it is what gives them an advantage when fighting against the true Clans of Kerensky.â€
“How do you know this for fact Carl Heller?†Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats asked
“Because a former Coyote Scientist helped develop the technology and has helped the Society to develop other weapons. My Clan was unable to eliminate him before we retreated to the Inner Sphere.†He admitted lowering his head.
“The Coyotes assisted the Society†Jana Pryde hissed angrily
“Neg, elements of my Clan’s Scientific Caste did. They have been abjured from our Clan.†He said looking around the room the shame of the Coyote association clear to the others.
“You will provide each of our Clans with data on this system Quiaff?â€Amina Kerensky demanded she knew of the Coyotes history in the Homeworlds but the defection of Coyote scientists had been kept a secret.
“Aff we shall†Heller said
“Clan Coyote’s point on the C3 systems should stand†Teresia Cooper said nodding at the Coyote leader her Clan had lost nearly two Galaxies when the Clans abandoned the homeworlds.
“I agree development of C3 technology should not be pursued.†Canin Rosse agreed Evangeline Clarke did not look convince but also nodded her agreement.
“We all agree the technology should be abandoned it has no place within our Clans†Khan Jana Pryde said looking at Khan Ragnar Magnesson “Khan Magnesson it is your right to declare a Trial of Refusal on our decision?â€
“Neg, we will not contest this decision, I will order the technology and all units using it to be placed in a Brian Cache and sealed away.†Magnesson said nodding to the other Clans showing that the Bears despite their strength were willing to abide by decision made by all of the Clans.
Occupied Militia Base, Oro
El Dorado, New Avalon Operational Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th May 3105
The majority of Warrior House Sortek, their tech staff and DropShip crew were in one of the main briefing rooms of the main Administration block while those who were on duty were connected by commlink and could add their comments and thoughts if they wished. For the last three hours they had gone in circles. “They could be lying to us Kathil is determined to separate our house or it could be a plot off Robinson to forward the goals of the traitor.†Captain Richard Winnie, one of the oldest members of the command said.
“How can you say that? We have unrestricted access to their communications grid. Unless these people have subverted the communications of an entire world everything points to the Federated Suns existing as a nation with New Syrtis, Robinson and New Avalon all still under Davion…â€
“Steiner-Davion†another interrupted him “according to their history Hanse Davion married Melissa Steiner in the past.†She said
“Not at all an example of cradle-snatching if I’ve ever heard of one†Vincent Sortek Imarra’s younger brother said gaining an annoyed look from the Warrior House Leader. “What?†He asked feigning innocence “she was eighteen and good old Hanse was forty-five why he didn’t marry that battle-axe Katrina I don’t understand.†Imarra noted that her brother had accepted the history provided to them and was ready to move on others didn’t look convinced.
“And the Succession Lords allowed the rebirth of the Terran Hegemony? Can anyone really say that makes sense the rebirth of a nation that has sapped worlds from each of the states around them?†Leftenant Chin Li Sunn the unit’s political officer said, he was one of the largest voices in the command that their place was in the Confederation regardless of who was running it. “One of the most recent discussions was about the transfer of Elgin, Hsien and Zurich to the control and protection of the Star League Defence Force.†He said glancing around “not through combat but through trade! This nation is led by a man who willingly gives up control over his planets releasing them to another nation.â€
“It’s not quite the same thing†Vincent Sortek complained “the Federated Suns is part of the Star League they will still have access to the planets and freedom of travel there. This simply allows them to redeploy defences to other areas of the nation.â€
“If the Star League was so good then they wouldn’t need to redeploy their forces†Li Sunn pointed out.
“Well unfortunately Kerensky wasn’t assassinated so his descendants are causing problems for the people here and the Capellan Confederation fell out with the Star League. So maybe they are redeploying to smack some of you bastards around the face.†Vincent said raising to his face Li Sunn immediately was on his feet as well his hand on the hilt of his ceremonial boa sword his eyes on Imarra looking for support away from the oppressive political policies of the Confederated Suns her brother’s anti-Sian/Liao views were released. She knew that this divide extended throughout her unit with the majority dedicated to House Sortek and reclaiming their homeland on New Avalon while others thought the Confederated Suns should concentrate on holding what worlds it still had, which were less and less of the Federated Suns core territories as time went by.
“Where we are and where we are going are less important than keeping true to each other†Imarra said rising to her feet “if this Warrior House turns on itself then we each betray our oaths to each other and ourselves.†She said looking at each of them “for myself I wish to see home after that my choice about my future will be made.†She said she was torn between her loyalty to the Chancellor Prince and her desire to see a New Avalon untouched by war.
Border trials
Draconis Combine/Raven Alliance fighting
20th May 3105
After several months of Trials contesting Pondicherry and Valentina with the Raven Alliance the Draconis Combine and Snow Ravens agree for Pondicherry to remain a Combine holding while Valentina becomes a world of the Raven Alliance. During the time the two worlds had been contested by the two nations the fighting had been fought according to the Clan Dueling laws of Zellbrigen and the fighting had barely made the news and the Snow Ravens had allowed any Combine citizen who wished to leave Valentina to do so. This solution that the two nations had found had stopped the prospect of total war but allowed their forces to flex their muscles and train with live weapons against their neighbours.
Tour Krupp Armament Works
Stutgart, Germany
Terra, Star League Protectorate
26th May 3105
Walking around the the Krupp Armament Works Prince Burton Davion looked at the line of Nyx Light BattleMechs that were in the final stages of checks before being deployed to the SLDF. The trip was a nice break from the physical therapy he was still undergoing with his replaced arm the smell of the BattleMech factory of metal and oil reminding him of being with a regiment on the field of battle. The tour guide spoke about the Nyx BattleMechs and Krupp’s evolving production line as they walked around Burton tried to show he was fully interested in what was being said while going through the hand excersises with his myomer replacement limb the doctors assured him that in time he wouldn’t notice the difference between the limb and his flesh and blood arm but he wasn’t convinced. As he flexed the wrist fully he heard and felt a a series gunshots as his guide and both Davion Guardsmen that were wish him were cut down by an assailant who was moving down from one of the Nyx BattleMechs “We don’t need you here Succession Lord scum! Free Terra!†The man shouted raising the gun towards Burton the Prince reflexisvely raised his left arm and charged the man as gun shots rang out they slammed into the Myomer arm Burton felt the shots hit his arm and his brain registed he was being shot at but he didn’t feel the pain associated with real shots. As he reached the attacker Burton swung out with his flesh and blood right arm striking the man over the face with a punch the man recoiled then tried to come back at him but Burton was already in motion punching out with his left arm hooking the man in the face he lost grip of the gun and it went flying to the side but was not done yet kicking out catching Burton in the ribs.
“I’m no threat to you†Burton said raising his hands to defend himself trying to defuse the situation.
“Your presence here is not wanted Terra is not a place for you. Blake’s will demand I defend our holy ground!†The man shouted he sounded like he was reading from a religious text or something.
“I don’t care about your holy ground!†Burton shouted back the anger building in him.
“Exactly you cannot appreciate this world for what it is, the birthplace of humanity, the crowning glory of all we have accomplished.†He said drawing a knife at Burton slashing it at him cutting through Burton’s blue business suit. The Prince was completely unarmed not expecting to get into a fight today. He knew both of the Guardsmen had weapons but by the time he got their weapons he’d be dead instead he lashed out with his right arm punching the man again then swung out with his left arm attempting to knock the attacker’s knife arm away. As he did he grabbed at the man’s arm but failed to grip it instead he raked his fingers over the man’s arm forcing it and the knife away. The man recoiled suddenly raising his arm Burton could see several cuts running down his arm. “What the hell are you?!†He screamed looking at the Prince. Burton was just as shocked as he looked at the arm from each of the fingers claws had extended from the finger tips.
“Your nightmare†Burton said trying to act like he knew about the claws before now “stand down or else†he said the man did not stop instead coming in with another kick. Deflecting the blow with his left arm he raked the claws over the man’s leg ripping open the coverall “stand down!†He demanded but the man kept coming. Burton and his attacker continued to circle for several moments exchanging blows as Krupp Corporate Security rushed to the site. “Stand the hell down!†Burton shouted again as the Security Guards raised their weapons the attacker however ripped oven the front of his coveralls revealing a suicide vest underneath Burton and the others dived out of the way behind equipment and tool boxes as suddenly the would be assassin exploded turning the man into a short lived fireball.
Several hours later Burton was sitting in the lounge of his villa in the south of France with Sterling McKenna-Davion in his arms. He didn’t know if it was conscious or not but she was on his right side away from the myomer limb. “Apparently it is a feature of the model they fitted me with it’s designed to be used as a climbing tool.â€
“And they did not tell you?†Sterling asked angrily
“It was supposed to be disabled electronically but the doctors said that each arm adapted differently to its host body.†He said raising the arm in front of him with the palm facing him a moment later the claws extended he felt them extend and he felt Sterling jump a little bit seeing the claws for the first time. “Apparently the more I use them the more I will be able to control it†he said retracting the claws his myomer skin covering the slits automatically before activating them again. “I’ve had this arm for weeks but now it feels more foreign than ever. I don’t know if I can control it.â€
“It is still yours, your mind controls it, and you would never do anything to hurt us.†Sterling said reaching out with her own right arm as her arm approached his the claws retracted allowing her fingers to slip between his Burton not realizing he’d retracted the claws. “You are in control of them†she promised her husband “you’d better be†she said turning his arm bringing his hand down onto her belly showing she trusted him. “We are going to need all four hands for three†she said. Burton looked at his hand, Sterling’s belly and then at his wife’s face. “It seems like we had an accident on Terra†she said blushing slightly as her lips curled into a smile.
“But your service time?†He said thinking about her recent decision to join the Federated Suns Navy on a more full time basis she’d been looking forward to returning to the military life something she’d been missing since leaving the Snow Ravens.
“I guess it will just have to wait a little longer†she said leaning into him “I am alright with this†she whispered to him. “But I think our time on Terra has come to an end.†She said looking at his replacement arm “the people back home can help you as much as the people here.†Burton nodded he didn’t trust the people on Terra after the revelation of the claws but he was glad to hear his wife refer to the Federated Suns as home.
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Diplomatic Visit, Subtelty (McKenna-class Battleship)
Marik, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
6th June 3105
Shortly after arriving in the Marik system the Subtelty Profitable Training College of Military Arts is visited by Captain-General Joseph Marik. During his visit Joseph Marik, like previous leaders, attempts to recruit the training college however the Captain William Leroy-Dietrich refuses stating that the Subtlety will head for Outreach to pay their respects before heading to Galatea to officially register with the MRBC as a training institution. Leroy-Dietrich does agree to keep the Subtlety in the system for two months training with the District of Marik forces.
Elsewhere in the Free Worlds League District of Lesnovo land on the periphery border worlds of Patrician and Astroskazy both planets had been fought over by the Marian Hegemony and the Magistracy of Canopus and were a hotbed of pirate activity. The forces on Patrician are destroyed quickly by the disciplined District of Lesnovo troops however the fighting on Astrokaszy is far less clean cut. The District of Lesnovo troops assigned to the planet’s conquest take heavy damage attempting to stop a lance of pirate BattleMechs carrying the number “7†even as the Free Worlds League troops try to corner this lance they open themselves to fire from other pirate groups. For three months the District of Lesnovo attempt to bring Astrokazsy under the heel of the Free Worlds League losing the Second Rim Guardians Regiment before withdrawing.
Assassination Contract
Lothario, Lothian League
Periphery
18th June 3105
Shots rang out across the plaza as the leader of the Lothian League Amanda Logan was hit by three sniper shots. Moments later a second round of shots took out two of her guards and hit Logan a fourth time even as medical teams rushed to the scene. Security personnel moved in on the firing nest the Bounty Hunter was on the move jumping clear of the area in a green power armour suit. Even as the assassin tried to escape from the area two BattleMechs, an Ebon Jaguar and a Catapult, arrived at the end of the street keeping the defenders at a distance the Catapult’s Arrow IV artillery missile causing massive, and intentional, collateral damage as they began to withdraw.
For several hours Lothian League security and mercenary forces attempted to hunt down the Bounty Hunter and their BattleMech support but each time the Lothian forces got close to the assassin other a Pheonix Hawk or Shadow Hawk BattleMech would appear on their flanks before disappearing into a cloud of ECM interference disrupting the Lothian man hunt.
When the death of Amanda Logan was announced planet-wide the desire to chase the Bounty Hunter and his BattleMechs quickly diminished for the Lothian and mercenary forces allowing the mercenary assassin to disappear and escape the planet. With the passing of Amanda Logan announced the Advisory Council on Lothario attempted to take control of the nation but eighteen year old Clarissa Logan, Amanda’s daughter, was already declaring herself the future “Mistress†of the League.
Perimetre Line, Militia Firebase
Oro, El Dorado
Crucis March, Federated Suns
22nd June 3105
“Ban-zhang Li Sunn we are tracking unidentified BattleMechs on our Perimetre.†MechWarrior Tatyana Zheng Hong the second most senior member of his lance reported she was at the far side of their firebase on patrol.
“We will be there presently†Li Sunn promised turning his Lao Hu BattleMech towards her position along side him the Caesar which had been accompanying him turned as well Chin Li Sunn was glad to see the junior MechWarrior follow without being ordered to. They crossed the distance within a few moments coming across Tatyana Hong’s Cataphract BattleMech and the Rifleman that completed their lance standing guard. “Have they moved?â€
“Standard patrol movements we believe there is an Enforcer III and another fifty ton design we cannot identify out there.†Hong reported as they arrived
“Very good†Li Sunn said activating two controls on his BattleMech’s computer “this is Leftenant Li Sunn of the Warrior House Sortek to unidentified BattleMechs respond or be destroyed.†He commanded smiling when there was no response, there would be no response, after the coming battle his BattleMech’s computers would be analysed and they would show that his Mech sent a transmission to their enemy but no message had ever been sent his lance-mates would simply have been following his lead. He disabled the override command and swapped back to his lance only channel “Sunn Lance pursue and destroy intruders†he ordered each of his Mech’s none of them questioned his orders.
The four heavy Mechs of the lance moved forward beyond their designated patrol routes and into weapons range with the unidentified Mechs. Without hesitation Chin Li Sunn pulled the triggers for his LRM rack and ER Large Laser beside him the Caesar fire its own gauss rifle while the Rifleman struck out with paired light particle cannons. The only Mech not to fire was the lance’s Cataphract which was not yet in range of the two Mechs even with only three of his Mechs firing the effect on the Enforce III was devastating as they weapons tore the Mech’s left leg and right arm completely off the Mech. Even as the Enforcer III fell Li Sunn fired his Mech’s LB-type Autocannon at the Medium Mech sandblasting it with a cluster shot shredding armour across the BattleMech including the BattleMech’s head Li Sunn smiled ferally seeing the hit and taking the time to watch the Enforcer III fall to the ground he was rapidly brought back to the present when autocannon fire tore into the left side of his Mech fired from the other fast moving BattleMech. Twisting his Lao Hu’s torso to look at the Mech it looked similar to the Lyran Blitzkrieg with a single large cannon over its shoulder and capable of high speeds. The BattleMech was running fast around his formation peppering them with Rotary autocannon fire the pilot was obviously very experienced “walking†his autocannon from one target to the next as he turned. Li Sunn watched as the Cataphract stepped forward blasting the enemy Mech with its own LB-type autocannon not enough to knock the Mech down but enough to make the pilot decide that they wished to disengage from this battle with the BattleMech turning and turning to escape. Li Sunn was tempted to let the Mech go and carry word of Warrior House Sortek’s battle prowess but he never got a choice to make that decision as the Caesar fire its gauss rifle and particle cannon at the retreating Mech’s back both shots penetrated the rear torso of the Mech coring through the BattleMech’s fusion engine shielding causing it to explode. “Li Sunn to command we’ve had an incident on the perimeter two BattleMechs have been destroyed by my lance.â€
Several hours later Leftenant Li Sunn stood in front of Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek. “I just had an extended discussion with Marshal Goddard†she said “they have no record of your transmission.â€
“I sent that communication!†Li Sunn said defensively. “My BattleMech’s records will confirm the communication.â€
“Yes our analysis does point to that, unfortunately neither of the AFFS Mechs confirms it…â€
“Doctored records!†Li Sunn said “they are trying to make us look like an aggressor!â€
“I cannot rule out that†Sortek admitted rising from her chair “which is why the Seventh New Avalon Guards have agreed to withdraw a further three hundred metres from our perimeter…â€
“We should extend our patrols…†Li Sunn began seeing an opportunity the AFFS obviously had no stomach losses in combat.
“No†Sortek said “our patrols being too close to the AFFS patrols caused this problem once it will not happen again do you understand me Leftenant?†She asked looking at him Li Sunn was quite sure that she knew what he had done, but that his override had taken away the evidence.
“Yes sir†he said now knew that she wouldn’t be convinced again and that she had accepted the fact that they were in the Federated Suns and that she was leading their unit into accepting this nation he could not see his Warrior House betray their oath to the Chancellor and he would not. “I shall disseminate these orders to the command.â€
“Thank you, Leftenant, you are dismissed.†She said he saluted in the traditional Capellan way and then left the room. She hadn’t expected him to act on his dislike for their current situation but obviously she’d been wrong it was something that would need monitored.
Across the continent the Seventh New Avalon Guards RCT redeploys giving Warrior House Sortek more room elsewhere in the Federated Suns the AFFS push the Capellan Confederation back into their own territory. Unlike previous border conflicts the AFFS does not push into the Capellan Confederation instead content to clear the Federated Suns of a Capellan presence.
Elsewhere in the Inner Sphere the Rasalhague Dominion push the Draconis Combine forces off their worlds while also securing the Lyran worlds of Dalkeith and Sakhalin pushing Steiner and Kurita forces off these systems.
-
Command Meeting, Fire Base
Oro, El Dorado
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th July 3105
Leftenant Chin Li Sunn sat in his BattleMech cockpit and watched as as the Deusenburg Luxury Hovercraft, two Templar III OmniMechs and three squads of Battle Armour all baring the insignia of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns entered the fire base held by Warrior House Sortek. His hands tensed on the triggers as he followed the hovercraft all it would take is one volley and the craft would disappear forever and his Warrior House would have its place. He knew that it would also be the last thing he did if he fired Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek had ordered free passage for the AFFS representatives even his own lance would fire on him for directly breaking her orders.
The hovercraft pulled up alongside the main administration building with the two Templar III OmniMechs and several of the Battle Armour troops standing guard around the limo and beside the front of the administration building. Three figures dressed in AFFS uniforms exited the hovercraft and made their way up into the main building inside they were met by Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek and her brother Vincent Sortek. “Welcome I am Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek and this is my brother Vincent.†she said greeting them Vincent remained silent bowing slightly.
“I am Marshal Duncan Goddard commander of the forces arrayed around you†the first said he was in his fifties but looked fit and most likely still an active fighter despite his rank.
“I thank you for your restraint thus far I have no wish to see this world turned into a battlefield.â€
“Nor do I†he admitted his forces severely outnumbered hers so badly it would not be a fight. “Allow me to introduce Field Marshal Bishop Sortek commander of the Royal Brigade of Davion Guards†he said stepping to one side revealing the old man standing behind him. Immediately Imarra Sortek bowed her head.
“Elder Sortek†she said seeing the man properly for the first time showing him the respect he was due.
“No lass I’m not the Elder you are looking for†the old man said with a small smile. “I am just an old soldier ready for his retirement†he said slowly Imarra raised her head again looking at him properly Sortek looked the same but the fire that lit Elder Bishop Sortek’s eyes was not there instead there was a weathered soldier who although old looked dangerous.
“And Field Marshal Conner Sortek the commander of the First Davion Guards†Marshal Goddard said immediately Vincent took several steps forward.
“Son of the Traitor†the younger Warrior House Sortek said stepping towards the youngest of the three men. He was older than Vincent and looked close to Imarra’s own age just like his namesake, Conner Sortek the Duke of Robinson in her universe serving the Draconis Combine.
“Vincent!†Imarra commanding him to stop with a single use of his name a disciplined Warrior House officer Vincent stopped short of reaching Conner Sortek who had not moved a single step. “This is not our… place†she said trying to find the correct words looking at Conner Sortek the blonde hair was there but the scar running down through his left eye was missing in fact all of the dis-figuration on that side of his face was missing, this was not their Conner Sortek. If any of the Warrior House needed proof that they were no longer in the Confederation Suns then this should be proof of that fact.
“My father was not a traitor her died serving this nation†Conner Sortek replied angrily staring at Vincent Sortek his father Arden Sortek was not a traitor.
“Please accept my apologies for my brother†Imarra said imposing herself between Conner and Vincent. “Where we are from Duke Arden Sortek sold out the Sandoval family to House Kurita and was installed as Duke of Robinson before being assassinated. You...†She explained before stopping “Conner Sortek was badly burned by the same assassin.†She turned to Vincent Sortek “control yourself these are not the same people we know†she said “how am I supposed to convince our command of the differences if I can’t even convince you?†Her brother took several steps backwards and seemed to be calming down.
“We all have many adjustments to make.†Vincent said bowing his head slightly towards Conner.
“I would like to offer an olive branch that could help your progress in making that adjustment.†Bishop Sortek said speaking up gaining all their attention “First Prince Davion has granted this request so it is solely up to Warrior House Sortek to agree.†He said informing them Victor Steiner-Davion wanted them off El Dorado and although it had taken some convincing he’d finally agreed that this was the best course. “I would like Warrior House Sortek to join me on New Avalon at the the Sortek family residence. You will monitored by the AFFS units on New Avalon but you will be allowed to keep your DropShips and your equipment.â€
“One position of house arrest to another…†Vincent began
“New Avalon†Imarra whispered her mind being cast back to the last time she’d been on New Avalon on the burned grounds of House Sortek which were still occupied by the Draconis Combine. “We will accept†she said looking at her brother for a long moment Vincent finally nodded his agreement “our unit will be ready to move as soon as you are ready for us.†She said to them caught up in the moment of returning to New Avalon.
“It may take some time to prepare but it will happen†Bishop promised the two younger Sorteks.
Border Battle, Contested Zone
Draconis Combine/Lyran Commonwealth border
21st July 3105
The conflicted zone between the Lyran Commonwealth, the Draconis Combine and Rasalhague Dominion comes to an end as each of the three nations withdraws from conflicted planetary systems. The Lyrans are able to retain Phalan and Eaglesham while the Draconis Combine continues to control Shionoha and Cabalrai while also capturing Corridan IV, Yed Posterlor and Baxter from the Lyran Commonwealth.
Break-out, Failing Karuna (Lung Wang)
Oro, El Dorado
Crucis March, Federated Suns
26th July 3105
“Deploy those loyal to us on all decks†Leftenant Chin Li Sunn said looking at the other members of Warrior House Sortek loyal to him and to the idea of returning to the Confederation Li Sunn had convinced them all that it was their only path. “I will secure the bridge†he promised them “we will then take this ship to a jump point commandeer a JumpShip and return to the grace of the Chancellor.†He said they all nodded their agreement and began to head for their positions throughout the ship while Chin headed for the ship’s control bridge. For the last two weeks their unit had done everything that the AFFS had asked of them taking steps towards preparing for their trip to New Avalon it was steps too far for Chin and the others.
It took him less than ten minutes to make his way through the DropShip and clear security checkpoints without firing a shot behind him those loyal to Chin following him overpowering the ship’s complement quickly bloodlessly. Entering the bridge he drew his sidearm just as the ship’s commander turned to face him “what is the meaning of this?†The man demanded looking at Chin’s pistol.
“Captain Vedder you are to taxi this vessel to take off and you are to take us out of the atmosphere. We will head towards the jump point and from there use JumpShip to take us into the Capellan Confederation.†He said explaining his plan Captain Vedder looked angry at the proposal which made Chin more determined to succeed his Warrior House needed to be shown the true path of all Warrior Houses. “I have people on all decks and much of your crew are with us.â€
“Preposterous†Vedder said dismissing the idea that they would sign on with Chin Li Sunn against him.
“No Captain we all want thisâ€
“Not all of us†Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek said stepping into view from another enterance her weapon drawn and aimed at him. “There are those within your movement still loyal to me they told me about your plan, Chin, my people have surrounded this vessel and other decks are being contacted to surrender. This did not have to happen Chin we should have worked together.†She said trying to convince him to stand down.
“There is no place in your future Warrior House. We will not surrender!†Chin said angrily his weapon not leaving Captain Vedder.
“You have no choice…†Imarra Sortek began
A shot rang out…
Blood smeared the cockpit windows as the shot fired from Chin Li Sunn’s weapon impacted with Captain Vedder’s head killing the man instantly. Even as Vedder’s corpse began to fall Chin was turning towards Imarra Sortek but he wasn’t quick enough to land a blow before she fired a succession of shots was exchanged between the two of them with one hitting Imarra Sortek’s shoulder knocking her down but several shots hit the traitorous Leftenant. Even as Imarra Sortek struggled back to her feet she could see that Chin Li Sunn was down and would not be getting back up she leveled her weapon at his body.
“That was a mistake†she said angrily trying to ignore the pain from her shoulder she pulled the trigger of her pistol several times shooting Chin’s downed form she knew why he had done what he had. By forcing the Warrior House Leader to kill him he had martyred himself for his cause the other rebellious men and women onboard the Failing Karuna surrendered shortly after hearing of their leader’s demise but his death would have a far lasting effect. Within her command there would always be questions asking if Chin Li Sunn had been correct by choosing his path instead of where the unit was now. Imarra Sortek could not do anything about the decisions made by Chin Li Sunn for now all she could do is continue to prepare her unit for its move to New Avalon and to House Sortek’s territory there
Command Tent, 20th Arcturan Guards RCT
Outskirts Wolf City, Arc Royal
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
31st July 3105
“This decision will kill my Clan†Evan Kell, Khan of the Mountain Wolf Clan, said angrily looking at General of Armies Aiden Gray.
“The Jade Falcons hold more than half of this world, this is our only hope of bringing peace to our border.†The General of Armies answered
“We can still win!†Kell said stepping closer to Gray who stood his ground against the younger man.
“And if we did that we would lose our entire border!†Gray replied “your units elsewhere are holding the Falcons in place we have showed elsewhere we can take territory from them if you move your units here then we give them room to move.â€
“Arc Royal is key to my Clan’s future.â€
“You have other facilities on Gallery†Gray said seeing Kell begin a rebuttal “we know they are more extensive than you have let on.†He said the LIC didn’t know exactly what the Wolves had transferred there but it was suggested that the Mountain Wolves had a back-up Genetic Repository, Iron Wombs and a BattleMech construction facility.
“The Archon gave us territory to use as we desired†Kell said defensively
“Exactly you have worked to maintain your Clan’s strength†Gray said “losing Arc Royal will be a blow to our nation not just your Clan†he said understanding the Khan’s hurt “but if we are victorious we will buy time to rebuild for your Clan and our nation.â€
“It is a decision that should not have been made without us…†Kell began but Gray broke in.
“This is the Lyran Commonwealth this decision was made to secure a Lyran future.†He said reaching for the radio transmitter “Jade Falcons this is Aiden Gray General of Armies for the Lyran Commonwealth. I am on Arc Royal and wish to challenge you to a Trial of Possession over this world.â€
“General this is saKhan Beckett Malthus commander of the Jade Falcon forces on this world.†The thick accented Clan warrior replied “state your terms†he said.
“A Trial of Possession for control over this world and one to determine the end to this conflict between us.†Aiden Gray stated “our forces will battle for Possession over this and you and I will battle for the future of this conflict. If you win you kill the General of Armies of the Lyran Commonwealth and cripple my nation regardless of your victory on Arc Royal.â€
“And if you win General Gray?â€
“I win a two year peace with the Jade Falcons following your defeat.â€
“You cannot be serious to end this war with a single victory?â€
“I am very serious†Gray answered “the joint Clan invasion of the Inner Sphere was stopped by a single Trial between Victor Steiner-Davion and Lincoln Osis during the Great Refusal.â€
“This is not the Great Refusal this is Jade Falcon against Lyran Commonwealth! Before the Great Refusal there were battles between all the Clans.â€
“If you do not think you can defeat me then we can continue to pound each others militarizes until they are no more.†Gray said taunting his enemy “maybe the Jade Falcons participated in the Great Refusal only because the other Clans stood beside them.†Gray said despite the situation he couldn’t help but smile “it was the same on Tukayyid wasn’t it you only fought that battle because the other Clans…â€
“SILENCE!†Malthus shouted into the communications system losing his temper. “You wish to fight me Aiden Gray then we will fight! Select your best company you will face my Keshik in open battle. And inform your best commanders that they will face mine in battle for this world.†He said cutting the transmission Aiden Gray turned to Evan Kell and smiled.
“Accepted†Aiden Gray said after a moment letting Malthus sweat for a moment “we will fight in three days south of Wolf City.â€
“Seyla†the Jade Falcon saKhan said finally before cutting off the communications system.
“You will battle the Jade Falcons over Possession of Arc Royal†Gray said looking at Evan Kell who looked surprised “you know this world better than I and you have a vested interest in keeping this world in our Possession.†He explained taking a moment “while I have an interest in ending the conflict against the Lyran Commonwealth permanently so I will face the saKhan.†He said Kell nodded his understanding “over the next few days I suggest you continue to evacuate Mountain Wolf equipment and civilians to Gallery†he said Kell did not look happy with Gray’s suggestion that he would fail. “A precaution†Gray explained “I do not wish to see the Mountain Wolves crippled by a fluke victory by the Falcons.â€
“I understand†Kell said trying to hide his frustration with Gray’s lack of confidence in his Mountain Wolves and their other forces. “I will also broadcast to any mercenary units still not involved in battle to evacuate the planet along with the civilians.â€
“That may be a prudent choice.†Gray admitted there was no guarantees that in three days time the Lyran Commonwealth would stand victorious in either battle Arc Royal could fall today and in a few months Tharkad, Coventry, Donegal and Arcturus could all be threatened.
-
Trial of Possession, Arc Royal
Arc Royal Theatre, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd August 3105
Fighting roared over the surface of Arc Royal as the Lyran Commonwealth, Mountain Wolves along with some select mercenary commands fought to determine the fate of Arc Royal and the war between the Lyran Commonwealth and Clan Jade Falcon.
General Aiden Gray was in an unfamiliar position the Falcons were not fighting as their Clan normally did and his company were on the back-foot, they had been since they began fighting with the Falcons their more mobile units keeping his heavy and assault force under attack from all directions. With his customized Zeus in the centre of the formation Gray had kept his company together as they moved towards the Falcon deployment zone at the other-side of a massive nature reserve. From the Falcon harassing attacks he’d lost a Battlemaster, a Penetrator and a Viking while destroying a Jade Falcon Shadow Cat and a Kestrel both OmniMechs but hardly an equal exchange. He hoped that Khan Evan Kell and the other defenders were having a better battle against the Falcons.
As they approached the Falcon deployment zone Aiden Gray readied his weapons “watch our flanks†he called out as he saw the Falcons had not remained at the deployment zone. So far the Jade Falcon attacks were atypical of what the Lyrans had come to expect of the Falcons who generally fought in a stand-up battle facing an enemy from the front.
“Behind us!†The Salamander pilot shouted a warning as laser and autocannon fire hammered the rear of the BattleMech. Aiden Gray turned to look and saw two Gyrfalcon BattleMechs jumping back out of range leaving the damaged Salamander to turn with the company. “Why don’t they fight?†The pilot demanded
“Keep your head Wilson†Aiden said looking at his sensors for the Falcons who again had disappeared “everyone listen we have the Falcons at a disadvantage in tonnage and they know it so they are playing the long game they are trying to whittle us down we cannot let them the Commonwealth is counting on us.†He said trying to rally his troops as their sensors detected incoming Falcons a Turkina and Tomahawk OmniMechs accompanied by an Onager, Cygnus and Hellstar BattleMechs.
“Holy…†someone began to say before Aiden spoke up.
“Can it!†The General of armies called out there were three Mechs still missing from the Jade Falcon line up but even though those five assault Mechs carried significant firepower. “Charlie take what you have left up and join me we’re taking them on. Mike swing your lance around them and try and hit their backs but keep an eye out for the rest of them.†He ordered effectively turning his company into two lances. He’d have his Zeus, a Zeus X, the damaged Salamander a King Crab and a Fafnir against the assault lance suddenly the confidence he held before that he had superior tonnage didn’t feel so good. “We just need to be better shots boys and girls hammer them!â€
Between the two sides weapons fire was exchanged particle cannons, lasers, autocannons and missiles flew stuck BattleMechs on both sides. Aiden steered away from becoming focused on a single target instead he tried to help the other guardsmen standing with him together they took down the eighty-five ton Cygnus with some light damage done to the Zeus X and the Fafnir taking heavy damage to its left leg. Mike Sutton reported his scout lance had destroyed one of the Gryfalcon BattleMechs but he’d lost the other three Mechs of his command to a Summoner II OmniMech which had appeared from nowhere. “Come join the rest of us Mike, we need to hold together†Aiden said as the two sides pulled back giving the General a moment to take stock both sides had six Mechs left and there was fight in both sides.
As Mike’s Stiletto OmniMech rejoined the other BattleMechs they moved forward together “time to throw them off guys, you know the game plan, good luck to you all.†He said they had decided before the battle to approach the final engagement in a particular way if at all possible. Stepping clear of the others Aiden Gray activated his comms “I am Aiden Gray I challenge saKhan Beckett Malthus to a duel one on one.†He said moment’s later Mike Sutton spoke up challenging the Gyrfalcon pilot followed by the others calling the Falcons out using their own honour rules.
“I am Beckett Malthus what is this Aiden Gray?†The Jade Falcon replied after several moments of silence between the two groups. Aiden saw the Summoner II step forwards he knew it was the Jade Falcon saKhan and passed to all his units his next command even as the saKhan spoke “you think we will honour your challenges after the way you have fought?†He asked before continuing “this is a fight to the death there will be no duels.â€
“Fire!†Aiden Gray commanded ignoring saKhan Malthus all six of his remaining Mechs fired on the Summoner II now standing clear of the other Jade Falcon Mechs. Even as fire ripped into the seventy ton OmniMech knocking it to the ground particle cannons, lasers and autcannons flew from the other Jade Falcon Mechs striking all six of the Lyran Mechs. The Fafnir was the first to fall as particle cannon fire burned through its armour destroying both of the Heavy Gauss Rifles there causing massive internal explosions. “Hold it together!†Gray shouted into his comms as laser and autocannon fire from the Gyrfalcon tore through the armour and cockpit of Mike Sutton’s Stiletto and then the Gryfalcon was shredded by long range missiles from the Lyran Salamander.
In the centre of the Jade Falcon battle-line the Summoner II tried to get back to its feet only to be struck by plasma rifle and autocannon fire from Aiden’s King Crab which was marching with a purpose towards the Jade Falcons. “No†Aiden whispered before deciding to support the MechWarrior “COVER HIM!†He shouted a warning to his other two remaining Mechs. The Zeus X and Salamander pilots combined with Aiden to bring down the Onager as the King Crab pilot walked right up to the Tomahawk opening fire on the assault OmniMech at point blank range with everything it had as the Tomahawk did the same. Both one hundred ton designs disappeared in balls of flames as the two MechWarriors ignored the damage done to their Mechs and kept firing until both were destroyed in a huge explosion as their ammunition bins exploded.
“This is Aiden Gray to the remaining Falcons you have fought well you do not have to continue this fight†he said as the Turkina pilot opened fire on his Zeus autocannon, particle cannon and long range missile fire tore into the General’s BattleMech with several missiles slamming into the cockpit of his Mech the entire right hand side of his cockpit flashed and sparked burning Aiden’s arm. Madison Stuart’s Zeus X charged between Aiden and the Turkina absorbing a second salvo of missiles and autocannon fire buying the General time to recover from the first attack. As Madison struggled to keep her Mech standing and failed the eighty ton Mech falling to the ground even as Aiden opened fire with his Mech’s clan made particle cannon and extended long range missiles hurting the Turkina. Long range missile fire from their Salamander caused further damage but the ninety-five ton Falcon OmniMech stood firm standing up to the punishment being dealt by the three Steiner BattleMechs.
Particle cannon fire from the Jade Falcon Hellstar burned through the heavy ferro-fibrous armour covering Aiden’s Zeus’ left leg damaging the internal structure there. “Adam buy us time†he ordered the Salamander pilot.
“I’m down to the last few salvos†the pilot replied but it didn’t stop him turning his guns on the distant Hellstar firing at it with his long range missiles immediately it showed he’d gotten the Clanner’s attention as particle cannons burned over the Salamander in a ferocious counter-attack.
“Do what you can†Aiden said weakly he could feel the blood seeping from his injured arm but remained in the fight firing his particle cannon into the Turkina even as the OmniMech fired on him with both of its autocannons in scatter-shot mode. Autocannon pellets exploded over the Zeus causing armour loss all over the BattleMech. “Madie you alright?†He asked seeing the Zeus X struggle to its feet.
“Engine shieldin’s gone not much left of her†she struggled bringing the Zeus X up Aiden could see a large gash in the torso running up towards the cockpit as the BattleMech stood.
“Are you hurt?†He asked turning his Mech’s torso to track the moving Turkina.
“I’m fine†she replied turning her Mech firing its light gauss rifle and missiles at the Turkina.
“Pull back…†Aiden ordered just as the Salamander was hammered by particle cannon fire.
“There is no pulling back†Madison replied engaging the Zeus again Aiden followed suit causing heavy damage to the Turkina which wasn’t firing either of its long range missile launchers any more instead the Jade Falcon Mech launched into the air on its jump jets landing close to them the pilot kept his OmniMech running at the Lyran Mechs. Both particle cannons flashed to life cutting into Madison’s Mech before jumping again midway through its jump the Turkina altered its flight path straight at Madison’s BattleMech. The two Mechs collided at ferocious speed knocking down the Zeus X for a second time Aiden targeted the Turkina with his particle cannon and a medium x-pulse laser into the Clan Mech. Despite the physical exchange between the Turkina and Madison’s downed Mech and Aiden’s fire the Turkina remained standing and fired both autocannons into Madison’s downed Mech straight into the Zeus X’s cockpit.
“You son-of-a-bitch!†Aiden screamed angrily firing his particle cannon again heat washed into the eighty ton BattleMech’s cockpit as the man made lightning burned into the Turkina. Aiden stepped forward and turned his Mech and slammed the BattleMech’s left arm into the assault OmniMech smashing its armour he pulled the trigger again firing at point blank destroying the Turkina’s gyroscope. The ninety-five ton OmniMech lost its balance and fell to the ground like a drunken sailor who’d had one drink too much.
Even as Aiden Gray finished the Turkina Adam Gansa fired his last salvo of long range missiles into the enemy Hellstar fire blossomed over the enemy Mech but it continued forward. The Lyran BattleMech pilot closed his eyes for a moment knowing what was coming as the Hellstar’s remaining two particle cannons burned into the crippled Salamander knocking it down.
“Stay down Adam there’s nothing more you can do†Aiden Gray said moving his Mech across the littered battlefield firing the extended long range missiles into the heavily damaged Hellstar even as the missiles hit he fired a particle cannon shot into the the Jade Falcon assault Mech. The Hellstar rocked on its heels from the hit but seemed ready for another attack Aiden didn’t give it a chance instead hitting it with another salvo despite the raising heat in his cockpit. The Hellstar fired its two Particle Cannons with only one striking Aiden’s Mech the other disappearing into the sky. Aiden pulled both triggers again his eyes beginning to feel heavy as he lost strength due to blood loss from his arm injury he saw his particle cannon shot go wide missing the Falcon Hellstar but didn’t see any missiles glancing at the controls he realized that his missile bays were empty. He cut to the right trying to close the distance between him and the Hellstar now without the long range missiles he had the particle cannon, one medium pulse laser and two machine guns not much at all.
Even as Aiden turned his BattleMech to the left and to the right trying to throw off the Hellstar’s shots he saw Adam Gansa wrestle with his Salamander back to its feet. “Adam stay down†Aiden commanded seeing the Salamander right itself turning towards the Hellstar.
“No way am I dying on the deck I’m going to keep his attention just make sure you kill him General.†The man said throttling up his Mech to a hobbled run just as the Salamander was hit by a particle cannon shot. Aiden continued to zig-zag towards his target but Adam’s Salamander ran right at the Jade Falcon Hellstar resulting in the assault Mech being hit over and over by particle cannon fire. Aiden watched his sensors as the Salamander was picked to pieces even as Adam fired his medium lasers in return scoring light damage Aiden added in his particle cannon but heat build up was still a problem. “For the Commonwealth!†Adam struggled over the comms as more particle cannon fire punched through the Salamander’s torso slamming into the fusion engine underneath causing it to overheat and explode consuming the Mech in fire. As Adam’s scream filled the radio Aiden fired on the Hellstar his particle cannon finally punching through the Hellstar’s torso armour there was an internal flash and the Hellstar stumbled Aiden wasted no time as soon as his the particle cannon cycled he fired again striking the Hellstar’s damaged torso causing the BattleMech to shut down. With Aiden the only MechWarrior still standing the Commonwealth had won their peace but at a cost Aiden had watched his entire company destroyed and had been badly injured himself. Standing beside the shutdown Hellstar the Lyran General of Armies wept in his cockpit as he hoped that the battle for Arc Royal would fair better.
Across the planet Khan Evan Kell fought with elements of Clan Mountain Wolf, the Lyran Commonwealth, elements of the Star League Defence Force and several mercenary commands for the control of Arc Royal. The Kell Hounds who had classed Arc Royal as their home with their command and morale broken had chosen not to fight for this world instead under the command of young Lt Colonel Jeremy Kell they had pulled off the planet with their dependents leaving its defence to Clan Mountain Wolf.
Initial exchanges had gone the Lyran Commonwealth’s way with Evan Kell’s forces able to corner and destroy the remains of the Fourth Falcon Lancers Cluster however after that the tide had turned on the Mountain Wolves with the Fourth and Sixth Wolf Grenadiers Clusters and The Dark Specters Mercenary Battalion all shredded by Jade Falcon fire.
“We cannot keep taking losses like this Khan Kell†General Bruce Kummert, the commander of the Twentieth Arcturan Guards RCT, said he was standing across from the Khan in their command tent.
“I agree†Kell replied “we need to break the Jade Falcon command.†He said determined to see their actions remembered “I will lead our assault elements against the enemy command element we’ll crush the Falcons and end this.†He said “prepare your menâ€
Soon after the core of the Lyran/Wolf assault forces were moving towards the Jade Falcons as a single unit throughout their approach they were attacked from all sides as the Jade Falcons employed similar tactics to those used by their Khan during his Trial of Possession employing light units to harass their enemy. As they closed on the Jade Falcon commanders a star of light Mechs ran into the centre of the Wolf lines and assaulted Evan Kell’s Orion IIC from all sides with the Jade Falcons abandoning Zellbrigen in an effort to take down Kell’s Mech. With his usual Lycurgus OmniMech gone in the opening engagements on Arc Royal months ago Evan had been forced to accept the ancient Orion IIC and had used it since the beginning of this trial. The Orion IIC had a history with Clan Wolf but it wasn’t as effective a fighter as his OmniMech had been. Attacked from all sides by the light Mechs it was like being attacked by a thousand paper cuts even as his Golden Keshik turned on the Falcon attackers destroying them one by one Khan Evan Kell’s Mech was cut down, the Khan along with it.
With Evan Kell out of the fight and neither a Mountain Wolf or Lyran commander able to agree who was in command the Jade Falcons smashed the assault force destroying the Golden Keshik and the Mountain Wolves Seventh Wolf Guards Cluster. With their main assault forces destroyed and the assault Mechs of the Twentieth Arcturan Guards RCT destroyed the Jade Falcons drove the defenders back to their base camp effectively ending the Trial. General Bruce Kummert as the most senior commander on scene announced the Lyran surrender of the Trial of Possession and Arc Royal with it. From Orbit Lyran Commonwealth and Mountain Wolf WarShips began a steady evacuation of their forces from the planet taking with them hundreds of civilians who didn’t wish to live under Clan rule.
For the Jade Falcons success they were able to secure the majority of Mountain Wolf Industries factories, two armoured vehicle production facilities, a BattleMech production line and all of the Mountain Wolves aerospace production facilities including their orbital repair station, aerospace fighter and Isegrim Assault DropShip construction facilities. As a final insult the Jade Falcon commander Galaxy Commander Jurgen Hazen returned a defeated Khan Evan Kell to his Clan instead of taking him as a Bondsmen.
Withdrawing from Arc Royal the Mountain Wolves move their remaining production facilities and the civilians they were able to take to Gallery while Evan Kell sunders Beta Galaxy folding its forces into a far depleted Alpha Galaxy.
While the Mountain Wolves lick their wounds the Lyran Commonwealth embrace their two year peace with the Jade Falcons ordering all commands on the Falcon border to remain in position while their production facilities are geared to rebuilding their shattered military. From Arcturus congratulations is passed to Aiden Gray for securing a peace but also news that Archon Jessica Steiner has given birth to her third child Elden Steiner bringing some light to the war-weary Lyran Commonwealth.
Across the border with their chain of command crippled by the fight for Incukalns and Arc Royal the Jade Falcons also begin to rebuild with Jurgen Hazen claiming the position of saKhan hours after the victory on Arc Royal.
Border skirmish
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
Periphery
12th August 3105
After months of low intensive fighting along the Magistracy of Canopus and District of Oriente borders the Oriente’s neighbouring District of Lesnovo wade’s into battle against the Magistracy opening up a second front on the Periphery state. The borders are further destabilized when the Capellan Confederation invades the systems of Antipolo and Kwarmshu of the District of Oriente effectively turning the entire region into a contested zone with none of the involved factions able to bring enough forces to the region to squash their enemies resistance.
Clan Council Meeting, Clan Hall
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
22nd August 3105
At sixty-seven years old Canin Rosse was one of the oldest serving Clans in the current active Clans but he carried himself like a man twenty years younger and was undisputed in his command of the Nova Cat Clan. Entering the Clan Hall he saw the Bloodnamed warriors of the Nova Cat Clan stepping in front of them the Khan looked around the warriors of his Clan for three weeks he had lived in the wilderness of New Barcella on a Vision Quest. “I have had a vision†he announced looking around the warriors he saw some looked skeptical but Oathmaster Klick Lenardon nodded his agreement. “Our Clan needs to change its approach to succeed or we will disappear.â€
“Which is something I have been suggesting for months…†saKhan Katrine Devalis said interrupting immediately the saKhan realized she had made a mistake and withdrew allowing Canin to speak.
“Out Clan needs to redefine what it means to be Clan Nova Cat to find our spirit and our drive.†He said looking around the hall “year on year less Nova Cats undertake a vision quest and fewer bring new meaning to our Clan.†Canin Rosse said the Nova Cat’s traditional values were to embrace visions and take new paths something truly lacking at the present.
“What do you suggest Khan Rosse you seem to have all the answers?†saKhan Katrine Devalis asked remaining off to the side.
“We must relearn the Nova Cat’s spirit it will not happen overnight but it must come from the top which means from all of you.†He said looking around the Clansmen “I believe we must end the division between ‘first and second line’ units†he said immediately he saw resistance to the idea on the faces of the Galaxy Commanders of the current front-line units. “We are all Nova Cats we all defend the Nova Cat’s Den and we all face the same threats.â€
“How can we dispense with the distinction? There have always been those who are destined for the second line warriors and there are those who will be bloodnamed.†Katrine Devalis said from her words Canin knew she was against the idea.
“You are correct saKhan†Canin Rosse said conceding the point “but I believe it is time we take steps that will see all of our units capable of fighting our enemies. Can you really say that is the case now?†He asked challenging them all those with rank knew best but they all knew in their own way that there were members of the Nova Cat Touman who did not have the skills or equipment to face their enemies.
“You still have not said what you suggest†Katrine Devalis said continuing to challenge the Khan.
“We reclassify our units†Canin Rosse explained the first step of his idea “those units currently classed as Guard, Garrison and Regular units will be reclassified in the same category. They will receive the same equipment and training†he said explaining the second step “and those warriors incapable of meeting the grade will be removed from these units.†There was a murmour that run around the chamber as each warrior realized how large a change it was that the Khan was proposing.
“I object†Star Colonel Kalvin Rosse, the commander of the elite First Nova Cat Guards Cluster, spoke up. “There are certain units that have a storied history in our Clan it is a heritage that warriors of those units draw strength from†he said Canin Rosse noticed Kalvin exchange a glance with Wrecken Rosse, the commander of the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster another elite command and a unit of Canin’s own Delta Galaxy.
“Aff I know certain units have a right to retain their designations†Canin Rosse admitted it was the reistance that Canin had expected to come from certain units.
“So one rule for one and one rule for another†challenged Katrine Devalis “you wish to distinguish between front and second line and yet certain units retain their traditional names there is a problem with your idea Khan.â€
“Neg there is not†the Khan said angrily that Katrine was continuing her challenge “each unit will be held to the same standards meaning our combat effectiveness will improve across our Clan. Each cluster will be given the same access to the same equipment our effectiveness will improve.†He said confident of his plan “our Cavalry and Cavaliers units to will be renamed in an effort to streamline our commands†he said raising his hand seeing another objection being raised. “I know certain units will want to retain their designations†he said thinking of the Forty-fourth and Forty-sixth Cavaliers Clusters “which is why we should have a series of Trials†he said thinking of a solution “for those units who wish to retain their designations they will face their peer clusters and should they be victorious then they can choose retain their names.†He said knowing that it was in keeping with Clan tradition and it would give the Nova Cat units a chance to fight weeding out more of those who were not able to keep up with the other Nova Cat units. Even Katrine Devalis did not have an objection this time remaining silent “our Assault and Battle Clusters will likewise share a designation while all of those clusters that have a name that does not conform with the already named formations will together become a new class of unit in our Clan.â€
“And what will be the names of these new units?†saKhan Katrine Devalis asked her voice less confrontational in tone than it had been previously.
“The Roar, Spirit, Pouncer and Vision Clusters†Galaxy Commander Tryina Drummond of Xi Galaxy said speaking up breaking the confrontation between the two Khans. Of all the Nova Cat’s units Xi Galaxy was the one that could be described as the most extreme in its attempts to follow what they saw as the true traditions of Clan Nova Cat.
No-one spoke up in objection of her suggestion instead the Clan Council decided over the course of several hours what units would be allowed to attempt to retain their current names and who would face them in combat. Over the course of the next three weeks each of the Clusters that wished to remain the same fought to retain their current identity facing against their peers in live fire combat while costly the Trials brought the Nova Cats closer together as individual units and drove the Clan closer together as they fought for a common goal. After the end of the Trials only eight units retained their previous designations the First and Fourth Nova Cat Guard Clusters, the Forty-fourth and Forty-sixth Nova Cat Cavaliers Clusters, the Rossei Cloister, the 449th and 450th Assault Cluster and the 109th Battle Cluster all others began to embrace their new identity. Unsurprisingly no-one paid any attention to the fact that the Watch Clusters retained their previous designations with few of the Clan’s “true†warriors caring what the Watch did.
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Nice update! I wonder how well the LCAF and Clan MW will rebuild? Clan Nova Cat seems to be on a path to make every warriors' weapons and equipment equal , a good way to streamline logistics. Another border skirmish between the neo-FWL and the CC/MoC? Its like watching a stew slowly simmer to a boil!
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Nice update! I wonder how well the LCAF and Clan MW will rebuild? Clan Nova Cat seems to be on a path to make every warriors' weapons and equipment equal , a good way to streamline logistics. Another border skirmish between the neo-FWL and the CC/MoC? Its like watching a stew slowly simmer to a boil!
Depends if they get a proper break. The change to the Nova Cats is one I've wanted to make for a while starting to set them apart. They do like a little fight.
Mercenary Contact
Kwarmashu, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
9th September 3105
After several years on the Clan Wolf border Daniel’s Avengers Mercenary Command accept a contract with the Capellan Confederation in hopes that it will give them time to rebuild. The Capellans employ the mercenaries in support of forces already on Kwarmashu helping secure the system for the Capellan Confederation.
Within the following week Iknogoro is also taken by the Capellans with the Daniel’s Avengers posted to defend both worlds. After the fighting against the Wolves the Daniel’s Avengers have been reduced to a reinforced combined-arms regiment and two reinforced BattleMech Battalions with both units upgraded with Clan salvage.
Subtlety (McKenna-class Battleship)
Nadir Point, Wasat
Star League Protectorate
15th September 3105
“Jump complete beginning scan†Commander America Park said from the sensors station glancing over at Captain Leroy-Dietrich who sat near the helm station. “All seems standard normal shipping traffic… hold that we’ve got incoming DropShips and they are launching aerospace fighters.†She said glancing at her sensors.
“How many contacts?â€
“Three DropShips from a single Invader-class JumpShip†she reported “we’ve got nearly a dozen aerospace fighters deploying from them.â€
“Communications give me direct contact†William Leroy-Dietrich said “helm accelerate to one G thrust. Launch defence fighters and order them to hold near the JumpShips protect our civilians.†He ordered thinking of the JumpShips which carried their dependents and the majority of the academies students. From under the Subtlety’s hull aerospace fighters dropped from their launch bays and turned towards the JumpShips behind the accelerating Battleship more aerospace fighters launched from the JumpShips. “This is Captain Leroy-Dietrich of the Subtlety we are passing through the Star League Protectorate on our way to Outreach. If you do not identify yourself and turn away from our position you will be considered hostile and will be subject to defensive fire.†He said cutting the link “weapons power up weapons on the port side bring them up slow we don’t want to short something after this long.†He said the Subtlety generally did not use her weapons systems, the Battleship didn’t need to use them, but the crews trained regularly and were ready to use them.
“No communications but we do have tracking systems†America Park said glancing at her fiancée she knew she shouldn't be worried about the fighters and DropShips but she didn’t like being attacked.
“Fine†Leroy-Dietrich said looking at the ship’s weapons systems seeing the most forward particle cannons on the port side of the ship were active. “Warning shot right across their course.†He said gritting his teeth seeing there wasn’t an option “fire†he ordered along the port side of the McKenna her long unused particle cannons activated filling the space between the WarShip and the incoming aerospace fighters and DropShips which continued towards them.
“No difference no communications†America said continuing to monitor the systems if they got too close the incoming DropShips and fighters could cause significant damage to the the Battleship.
“Helm turn us into a wide starboard turn keep us between them and our JumpShips†Leroy-Dietrich said “weapons as we turn I want you to bring up the starboard weapons we are going to give them a volley from each.†He said feeling the McKenna turn under them “accelerate to one-point-five G†he said watching the sensors. “Port side weapons target that Leopard CV first volley†he said watching them continue to close “and fire†he ordered the Subtlety’s weapons activated for a second time as the McKenna continued her turn. The naval particle cannons tore through space impacting with the incoming Leopard ripping the incoming DropShip to pieces.
“They are still coming†America Park said watching as the Union and Overlord-class DropShips and their fighters continued to close on them. “What are they trying to accomplish? This is a WarShip even if they get close enough to hurt us it will take shot they’ve got a week to break through our armour.â€
“They’ve been put up to it.†Leroy-Dietrich said leaning into the turn as the Subtlety continued to move “someone wants us stopped by any means.â€
“And it just happens when we arrive in the Protectorate?†She said glancing at him “coincidence?â€
“Or someone wants us to think it is if the Star League wanted us dead where are their WarShips?†He said as the WarShip continued its turn “starboard weapons if they want it this badly let’s give it to them I want the Overlord gone.†He said glancing at the weapons station the officer nodded “and fire†he commanded the particle cannons activated together as one burning through the front of the Overlord melting its armour and tearing the larger DropShip to pieces.
“Aerospace fighters entering their weapons range and firing†America Park called out looking at the sensor data as the dozen aerospace fighters opened fire on them with lasers and missiles deep inside the ship America Park instinctively looked around her for a moment but there was no way she’d hear or feel the impacts from the fighters weapons.
“Bring up our fighters order them to remain in defensive formations and to fire in defence of us and of the JumpShips.†Leroy-Dietrich ordered watching the screens the McKenna’s own guns were not designed to engage Aerospace fighters “helm bring us around them again. Port weapons bays on the Union and get ready to drop a salvo on their Invader’s jumpsail rip it off†he commanded targeting JumpShips was taboo but he wanted those responsible to be held to account. The McKenna continued her turn as the enemy aerospace fighters continued to close firing as they came while the Subtlety’s own aerospace fighters moved in to defend the Battleship. Another salvo of particle cannons tore through the Union while their fighters continued to strike the McKenna. “Helm full roll to starboard†he ordered the Subtlety slowly rolled over onto its starboard side Leroy-Dietrich’s idea was to minimize the damage those aerospace fighters were doing to a single section of the Subtlety. “Weapons on the Invader.â€
“Salvo outbound†the weapons officer Kiera Levine said the McKenna’s particle cannons crossed the distance between the two ships in moments striking the rear of the Invader and its jumpsail. The delicate jumpsail was ripped to pieces by the massive over sized naval particle cannons while the rear of the Invader disintegrated under the fire. “The JumpShip is crippled…†she said but after a moment the Invader exploded Leroy-Dietrich looked at her surprised “we didn’t hit anything critical the damage was superficial†she explained if a ship being hit by a particle cannon could ever be described as superficial.
“They didn’t want to be caught†Leroy-Dietrich noted as the Subtlety was hit by several of the aerospace fighters which had committed suicide runs against the battleship. “Increase speed full acceleration and continue the roll make us a hard target!†He said seeing the other fighters moving into positions where they could ram. “Direct our fighters against those birds!†He said pointing at the enemy fighters as the Subtlety began to pull away from them. The Subtlety’s aerospace fell on the now alone aerospace fighters rapidly destroying each of them clearing the area of hostiles.
Following the attack Captain Leroy-Dietrich reported the incident to the authorities on Wasat and to the Zenith Point Recharge Station. SLDF DropShips and investigation teams were onsite within hours from the space station while the SLS Republic arrived the following day. Copies of the Subtlety’s records were taken by the investigation teams and wreckage from the battle-site were also sampled by the SLDF after the briefest of investigations the Subtlety and her crew were cleared of all wrong doing and cleared for their jump to Outreach.
Democratic Elections
Lothario, Lothian League
Periphery
22nd September 3105
Following the assassination of Amanda Logan the Lothian League attempt to hold democratic elections Mistress Clarissa Logan enters as a candidate but the elections are frought with claims of corruption and ultimately the result is contested by multiple factions. The mercenaries hired to protect the Lothian League from external threats refuse to enforce marshal law as civilian unrest turns into fighting on several planets.
After Action Debriefing
Arcadia, Dixie Theatre
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
26th September 3105
“Gentlemen perhaps you can explain to me exactly what happened on this planet?†General Prudence Steiner said angrily looking at the two men who sat either side of the table staring at each other.
“We turned back a Wolf incursion against this world†Sang-shao Matt Blackledge said the commander of Blackledge’s Iron Fist Mercenary command sat his eyes not coming off Major Justin Rubinsky the commander of the Rubinsky’s Light Horse. “When this dog’s force arrived and attempted to claim out salvage.â€
“We were securing the area for the Lyran Commonwealth†Justin Rubinsky answered his eyes not leaving the former Capellan Confederation officer. “There were still active Wolves in the area and as per our contract obligations the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces gets first pick on all salvage.â€
“A clause that is not in my unit’s contract†Matt Blackledge said seeing Rubinsky’s shock and anger glad that his unit had one up on the St Ives born man. “Following an incursion by a hostile force my people defended…â€
“Murdered†Justin Rubinsky said inteupting
“Defended themselves and opened fire on the intruder’s lance.â€
“You fired on a unit that was also under contract with the Lyran Commonwealth?†Prudence Steiner asked surprised at the man’s open admission. “And you†she said looking at Justin Rubinsky “you sent units into another mercenary command’s defence zone?†She asked pointing out Justin’s failings as well. “Gentlemen I know that your histories are mixed.†She said trying to being them together to her level “but you are not both mercenary commanders your past is exactly that the past.†Both men began to speak but Prudence raised to her feet looking at them “it is simple you are under the employ of House Steiner. Your mission is to support the goals of the Commonwealth. Major Rubinsky your unit is to load into your DropShips and prepare to move we’re taking you off the Wolf border.â€
“Sir we can prove ourselves†Justin Rubinsky protested the change looking at Blackledge “we can even work with the Iron Fist I promise you.â€
“And we can work with the Light Horse†Blackledge said deciding to offer Rubinsky a chance.
“That’s good to hear†Prudence said smiling “as between the two of you I want the Iron Fist and Light Horse to agree what salvage the Rubinsky’s Light Horse will take with them off Arcadia.†She said seeing Blackledge’s shock “there will still be plenty for your command.†She promised the Sang-shao.
“Where will we be heading?†Justin Rubinsky asked curious about his unit’s new posting.
“We are sending you to Clayborne II and from there you will monitor the situation in the Lothian League and follow the directions of your Steiner Liaison.†She explained the Light Horses integral transport making them the perfect unit for future operations that House Steiner could launch against the League.
“And my unit?†Sang-shao Blackledge asked annoyed that Rubinsky’s upstart command was getting an assignment that could see them leading an offensive while his command was stuck defending Arcadia.
“Your unit’s numbers and strength are better placed here on Arcadia holding the line against Clan Wolf.†Prudence Steiner said turning towards the door “now in your new spirit of cooperation I will leave you gentlemen to sort out the distribution of the salvage.†She said leaving the two mercenaries to complete their negotiations. Within hours the agreement had been made and the Light Horse had secured a couple of dozen clan tech weapons before they left Arcadia. It would take their techs weeks to fit to their current Mechs. And although the Iron Fist would continue to garrison the Wolf border and likely be in line to gain more salvage the mercenary command could also be destroyed by the Clan perhaps some distance between them and the Light Horse would not be a bad thing.
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Nice to see some chaos in the Lothian League, I wonder if the MH is willing to pounce on a chaotic LL. Wonder what secret group made a play for the Subtelty? Keep it up!
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Khan’s Office, Clan Hall
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
1st October 3105
Khan Canin Rosse’s office was not a large or extravagant room but it served its purpose as a work space for the Khan while he was on New Barcella. He tried to spend as little time here since Yvonne’s passing but as Khan he had to come to the planet every now and then. Today was one of those days and he didn’t have to wait long to see the results the door opened and in walked saKhan Katrine Devalis. She was dressed in the Nova Cat leathers with the addition of a cloak lined in Nova Cat fur the cloak was a recent fad that was passing through the warrior caste and was more frequently in the Nova Cat Touman.
“Did your other saKhans enjoy a summons to the Khan’s office?†Katrine asked stopping short of his desk the younger woman taking a seat on a chair in front of him.
“Neg, but they did so with honour and grace†he said watching her reaction to his verbal barb “I did not realize that you had taken to wearing that†he said looking at the cloak which was draped over the chair.
“It was made by one of my warriors I honour his work by wearing itâ€
“Indeed†Canin said sitting back in his chair.
“It is not against regulations I do not see the harm quineg?â€
“Neg†Canin admitted “it is just new.†He said standing from his chair “speaking of new things it is the reason for your ‘summons’†he said using her term for his request.
“I gathered that†she barely looked interested in what he had to say her lack of respect angered the Khan but he refused to bite to her tempting.
“I want our senior leadership to undertake a Vision Quest†he said seeing her suddenly sit up and take notice. “It is important to me that our Clan remembers its traditions even as it embraces new ones.†He said looking again at the cloak.
“I will ensure that all of our Galaxy Commanders are aware†she said almost jumping to her feet turning towards the door.
“That includes you.†Canin said watching her stop dead in her tracks turning slowly “I have never heard of you taking a quest.â€
“I did once†she admitted “in 3091 shortly after your son’s death.†She explained the mention of Grayson Rosse pained the Khan but he suppressed the thought of it quickly refocusing on his saKhan’s back. “I thought the passing of my rival would spur a vision but it did not.†She said turning to face him.
“And you have never tried again?â€
“Negâ€
“But you continue to collect vineers quiaff?â€
“Aff it is our traditionâ€
“As is visions†the Khan said
“You have enough of them for the both of us†she said referring to his multiple visions as she turned back towards the doors “I will look after our Touman you look after our visions.†She said taking another step.
“Neg!†Canin snapped “you will undertake a Rite of Visionâ€
“Aff I will once the Oathmaster returns from Tukayyid†she said nodding her agreement by then she hoped to be deep inside the Taurian Concordat causing trouble for their periphery neighbour.
“Neg you will do so nowâ€
“I have no guide†she said beginning her defence but the Khan silently replied by spreading his arms “you?â€
“As you said I have had plenty visions it is time I pass on that experience.â€
“I was planning on leaving on a raidâ€
“It can wait.†The senior Khan said making it clear that his decision was made. “We leave tomorrow morning.â€
“For where?â€
“This continents mountain plains one of the few places our Clan has not touched in some way. There we will begin.â€
Rite of Vision
Northern Mountains, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
4th October 3105
From New Barcella City the Khan and saKhan had been carried to the foot of one of the continents smaller mountains and there they had begun their ascent. The climb was not easy but then it wasn’t a great challenge for either of the warriors instead they soon reached a grassy plateau that overlooked the planets open plains and forests of New Barcella in the far distance Phillip Drummond City and the seaborne Borealis Facility glistened in the night. “This is the place?†Katrine Devalis asked looking around but not all that impressed.
“What do you think?†Canin Rosse asked remaining passive to the area allowing her to decide.
“It is fine†she said dumping her travel pack “we should set camp.â€
“Neg, set a fire, we begin nowâ€
“I have not slept properly in days†she complained
“Exactly continue†he said. Soon after Canin Rosse sat alongside her while Katrine looked into the flames. Slowly the saKhan sacrificed her vineers, souvenirs of her time as a Nova Cat warrior; Canin remained silent staring into the fire hoping to see something in the flames despite it being Katrine’s Rite of Vision.
For Katrine Devalis part she did not see the point of this her spirituality had never been a large part of her career she’d managed without one until now and risen to the second highest point in Clan Nova Cat. As she thought of her career a nova cat stepped out of of the darkness and snarled at her Canin Rosse did not react instead he continued to stare into the flames. The nova cat walked slowly around them she could feel it as the animal moved around her back she knew at any moment its poisonous mane could touch her back and she’d be on the ground defenceless. The nova cat continued around until it was facing her Khan and then in a moment it lept towards him Katrine jumped up to the Khan’s defence feeling the fire against her body as she leaned over it. Suddenly the Khan appeared to be standing beside her his hands on her arm where she had felt the fire “know your enemy†he said before he faded back to darkness.
“What the hell is this†she said out loud she felt sweat running down her body and she knew she was still in front of their camp fire but the Khan was gone the nova cat reappeared beside her and snarled before leaping into the darkness Katrine looked at the fire for a moment before following the cat.
The nova cat had quite a lead on Katrine but it wasn’t trying to get away from her suddenly another nova cat jumped out at the first one. The two cats circled each other for several moments each taking a swipe at each other the mountain beside them fell away revealing a huge chasm. The two nova cats continued to circle and and fight each other before they stopped and faced each other ‘her’ nova cat suddenly jumped into the darkness. “NO!†Katrine screamed leaping to the cat’s defence quickly following it over the edge.
Suddenly there was fire all around her and Katrine saw her nova cat dragging itself back to its feet moving around the fire as if on the hunt. From the sand a snake appeared hissing at the nova cat as it jumped through the air its mane standing on air its claws ready to strike a bird swooped down knocking the cat to the side defending the snake. Katrine tried to step between the bird and the injured cat but she couldn’t move as the flames intensified. The nova cat’s spirit seemed to rise from the animal ignoring the serpent and striking back at the bird knocking it to the side Katrine could see it lying dead in the sand. As the nova cat’s spirit turned towards the snake black wings seemed to grow from its back turning the animal into something new as it turned towards Katrine. Even as she studied the animal something even stranger happened from the cat a spirit figure emerged “what are you doing here?†She asked Grayson Rosse looking like he had before he was killed fighting the Capellans.
“Know your enemy†he said before disappearing into the darkness only to replaced by a snake and then Canin Rosse standing opposite her.
“Katrine!†He called out but Katrine only saw the snake and struck out. Canin Rosse was waiting for her move and easily blocked the blow moments late he blocked her second blow. “Katrine calm yourself†he commanded her instead of responding with a strike he blocked another of her blows. “Katrine!†Canin shouted a warning as he stepped back closer to the edge.
“No†she suddenly said realizing what she was doing “this isn’t right†she said stepping back giving Canin the room he needed “my Khan I apologies†she said remembering both Canin’s and Grayson’s words in her vision ‘know your enemy’ for the first time in a long time she did not see Canin Rosse as her enemy. "What the hell was that?!"
“You encountered a vision†he stated it was not a question he could see it in her eyes the revaluation that had come fro the flames. She simply nodded “you will not understand all the images of your dreams. But in time they will become clear.†He promised her Canin said Katrine began to speak but found her mouth dry instead she reached for a water bottle and drank nearly half of it.
“It was so real†she whispered looking at the Khan. “I felt and smelt it†she said “it was like it all happened in front of my eyes…†she raised her left arm “I was burned†she said looking at the perfectly healthy skin covering her arm “I never realized…†she said looking at the Khan smirking more to herself than him “I saw…â€
“Be careful with who you tell of your vision†the Khan said raising his hand to forestall her explanation for a moment “it may be personal to you or it may affect all of our Clan. Who you tell may make a difference to how that person acts in the future.â€
“But I must tell someone†Katrine said “and you are my guide…â€
“Then I will listen†Canin said sitting back from the fire.
“I saw nova cats fighting†she said piecing the vision together “but then they realized their error and stopped.†She said thinking it over realizing that it could have represented her and the Khan. “Then I saw a serpent ready to strike the nova cat. It turned and replied attacking the serpent knocking it to the side but before it could land a killing blow a bird struck the cat.†She explained “I couldn’t move but the cat was not done it rose to its feet ignoring the ailing serpent it struck down the bird.†She said
“Was that it all?†Canin asked sensing that there may be more to it.
“Aff†she said closing her eyes for a moment instantly seeing the strange cat-bird creature and Grayson Rosse’s face ‘know your enemy’ “there was nothing else.â€
“What do you think it means?†Canin asked
“It could mean there are still Serpents out there†she said referring to the Clan based faction “or it could refer to the Combine. A dragon is a type of serpent.â€
“And the bird?â€
“It could be the Free Worlds League, the Jade Falcons or the Snow Ravens.â€
“And given our position what is most likely?†He asked her
“The Ravens†Katrine said “I know what I need to do†she said ‘know your enemy’ “I need to strike the Draconis Combine.â€
“And if the Ravens interfere?â€
“Then I know my path is the correct one.†Katrine said
“And you said that your nova cat was knocked down and that the cat’s spirit carried the day. Are you willing to follow your vision to death?â€
“I am†she admitted for the first time willing to follow a vision, her vision, to death. She closed her eyes for a moment instantly seeing the cat-bird figure and hearing the worlds ‘know your enemy’ she quietly wondered if she’d ever shake the vision from her thoughts.
Thirty-third Star League Games
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate
14th October 3105
For a second year in a row Clan Wolf dominate the Solaris Games on Solaris VII with several Wolf Tomahawk OmniMechs dominating the games. Star Captain Beckham Kerensky from the 328th Assault Cluster, piloting one of the Tomahawks, fights off challenges from all others to become the new Star League Champion.
Almost as soon as the battle for the Championship is over another riot begins on Solaris. Unlike the previous year Star League Peacekeeper forces and the Clan Wolf unit on planet are ready for the riot. Specially trained units comprised of BattleMechs, combat vehicles and battle amour units are deployed to contain threats before they become to dangerous using overwhelming firepower to intimidate the worse offenders. For less troublesome enemies Constable, PAB-2B Sniper, Tornado and Nighthawk Power Armour suits are deployed by both forces in an attempt to minimize casualties.
Raging Bull (Marathon-class Battle-cruiser)
Summit, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
18th October 3105
Despite the Jade Falcon decision to accept the peace with the Lyran Commonwealth the Hell’s Horses were still attempting to pursue their invasion of House Steiner’s realm. Targeting the systems of Kandersteg, Summit and Grundwald the Hell’s Horses had dedicated several of their latest WarShips, DropShips and Horde Clusters to the invasion. Star Commodore Thanos Hovan stood in the command centre of the Raging Bull as they approached the system’s inhabited planet all around Arcadia, Outpost Defender and even two new Ordun-class DropShips moved the two clusters of ground forces towards the planet while the Lola III-class Destroyers Space Hunter and Gold Knight provided perimeter escort the Hell’s Horses forces there was simply too much invested in this assault for them not to be present. There was a radiation surge at the jump point as their JumpShips jumped to the system’s pirate point ensuring no Lyran WarShip would get the jump on their forces. Moments after the JumpShips had jumped there was another series of surges at the jump point “Aft sensors!†Hovan commanded looking at the screens.
“Star Commodore we read five WarShips all bearing Federated Suns markings!†Anabelle reported from the sensor station.
“Federated Suns?†Hovan asked confused “confirm that!†He demanded it must be wrong the Federated Suns was thousands of light years from here.
“Confirmed all five of them they are deploying assault DropShips and turning to face us.â€
“Intercept time!†He demanded
“If they use maximum thrust they can intercept us before we reach the planet.†She said confirming what his mental calculations suggested. There were too many Hell’s Horses in this system and they were too badly outgunned by that naval firepower. “Have Gold Knight and Space Hunter fall to the rear of the formation along with our Defenders, Arcadias and Aerospace fighters they will be our screen.†He commanded he knew the decision would not be popular but they did not have a choice even the Raging Bull carried ground forces which couldn’t be risked. “Have the Arcadia’s cargo configured for space combat they are going to be needed.†He said watching the Federated Suns WarShips turn in their direction and accelerate after them. “Helm push our speed, communications inform the JumpShips that when we arrive the Orduns must dock as quickly as possible. We dock what we can and we escape.â€
For the next fourteen hours they continued towards the pirate point while the Inner Sphere WarShips continued to chase them down. The Gold Knight and Space Hunter were the first to turn their hulls towards the incoming targets neither of the ships began decelerating, they would wait until the last moment, soon after the Arcadia’s matched their pace as did the Defenders. “Status†Hovan called out as he re-entered the command centre he had tried to sleep but failed.
“Forward combat elements of the Davion fleet have entered weapons range with the Gold Knight and Space Hunter†Misha reported from the weapons station “neither side have scored decisive damage on the other.â€
“Both Arcadia’s have begun aggressive deceleration as have the Defenders†Nolan said from the helm “our turn is coming.â€
“All hands this is the command centre prepare for aggressive deceleration and combat maneuvers.†Hovan said moving to his own acceleration couch, no-one wanted to be standing when the WarShip began its combat maneuvers. “Weapons as soon as you have a solution fire, don’t wait for my command†he instructed Misha who nodded her understanding.
“Sir, request from ground forces commander, if we get close enough the Horde want to be released to attack the enemy.â€
“I will keep that under advisement but make them aware we do not plan on letting them get that close.†He said looking at the clock “helm throw the switch!†He commanded bracing for the maneuver. ‘Throwing the switch’ was a term used on ships to address a space going vessel’s method of rapid deceleration while they could slowly bleed off speed and coast to a stop which was more comfortable, safer and cost less fuel it was also too slow during combat. Instead space going vessels turned their nose against the direction they were travelling and fired their engines at full thrust.
In space the Raging Bull’s nose slowly ‘rose’ as the ship began to pivot along its direction of travel behind the vessel the two Lola III-class Destroyers and four DropShips which had already turned were engaging the Federated Suns forward elements that consisted of two destroyers, half a dozen DropShips and over a hundred aerospace fighters. These units alone would cause the Hell’s Horses forces trouble.
“Sir, Gold Knight is being engaged by capital missiles from the DropShips and both enemy Destroyers are closing range†Misha said “engaging FSS Zibler with naval gauss rifles†she said as the Davion III moved into extreme range. The Raging Bull’s massive Repeating Naval Gauss Rifles opened up on the distant enemy destroyer Hovan was glad to see some hits on the ship but nothing that would seriously worry the Federated Suns vessel as it closed on the Gold Knight.
“Hold it together Mike†Hovan said watching as the contacts closed the FSS Zibler seemed to pass close to the Gold Knight while the FSS Fire Fang which held off at distance. Both Federated Suns Destroyers turned away from the Gold Knight while the Gold Knight continued on its course which now appearing to be a ballistic one. “Status on Gold Knight?â€
“We’ve lost communications with her†Misha said looking at her screens “Space Hunter is continuing pursuit†she said as the Space Hunter passed over Gold Knight’s position continuing to fire on the two retreating AFFS Destroyers. Suddenly the Raging Bull’s sensors registered nearly a dozen capital missile hits across the side of the Gold Knight.
“How did they hit them from that range?†Hovan asked more to himself than anything else as he watched the Space Hunter list heavily to her starboard side even as she continued to fire on the FSS Zibler.
“We are reading heavy communication traffic between the Federated Suns ships†Misha reported.
“Nolan pass to all of our DropShips and aerospace fighters to break off and fall back immediately!†Hovan ordered realizing what he was seeing “Space Hunter, this is Raging Bull, the Federated Suns ships are using C3 systems break off your pursuit and make way to join us. We need to engage them all at once to minimize the advantage.†He commanded but the message had been sent too late to make a difference as another volley of capital missiles and naval weapons tore into the second Lola III. The destroyer already damaged took heavy hits along its mid-line and aft sections as capital missiles fired from the two Avalon II-class Cruisers tore open the ship’s hull to space. The Space Hunter continued on its course its thrusters heavily damaged by the hits.
“Sir we are at the jump point†Anabelle said
“Complete deceleration†Hovan ordered keying a switch on his command chair “all hands prepare for immediate docking and jump procedures. Weapons if any of those ships come back into range I want to know immediately†he said looking at the Space Hunter which now had stopped trying to make a turn and instead was continuing to fire on enemy vessels from a now fixed course. “Communications put me on general communication channel.†He said Misha nodded “this is Star Commodore Thanos Hovan of Clan Hell’s Horses commander of the Raging Bull to Federated Suns Flotilla at this time and date I am ordering the commander of the Space Hunter and all aerospace fighters and DropShips unable to rejoin our fleet to surrender. You won this round you won’t win the next.†He said cutting the channel “continue our docking procedures and prepare to jump from the system.†He commanded watching the screens carefully the Space Hunter and other forces too damaged to retreat slowly signaled their surrender as all six Davion WarShips moved closer Hovan prayed that the Federated Suns forces would accept his people and not blast them from space.
Across the system on board the FSS Reinhart Steiner standing in the ship’s command centre Admiral Alexander Duvall smiled on hearing the message from the Horses commander. “Status on the Horses ships Mr Anderson?â€
“Sir, the Battle-cruiser and JumpShips are continuing to dock fighters and DropShips. The first Lola III designated Gold Knight is adrift with minimal power. Second Lola III designated Space Hunter is also adrift and signalling surrender. One Outpost-class DropShip is completely destroyed. Second Outpost-class DropShip has shut down engines and is signalling surrender. Two Arcadia-class vessels have powered down and surrendered. There is fighting continuing on the hull of the FSS FSS Zibler between defenders of the ship and a small number of ProtoMechs and Battle Armour troopers. Several aerospace fighters have also surrendered.â€
“A nice catch†Duvall noted “direct Fifty-first Strike Wing to the FSS Zibler set a perimeter the Fifty-first are only to engage units they can hit without damaging the FSS Zibler. Captain McLintock can you bring us closer to the FSS Zibler and prepare our marines for a boarding action we’ll convince them to stand down.†He ordered the ship’s commander Captain James McLintock “and sensors continue to monitor the Raging Bull.†He said “Communications I want you to direct the FSS Fire Fang, FSS Melissa Davion II and the FSS Jackson Davion to set up between us and Raging Bull Fire Fang to take operational command while we assist Zibler.†The FSS Reinhart Steiner moved closer to the Destroyer which occasionally rolled along its axis in an attempt to knock the invaders off into space. “Let me talk to them†Duvall commanded the communications officer nodded a moment later. “Hell’s Horses ground forces your commander has commanded your surrender I am willing to accept it, none of you will be harmed and will be accepted as prisoners of war.â€
“Neg, you will accept us as Bondsmen or we will die before surrendering to you. Give us a chance to become warriors again.†One of the Horses said from the FSS Zibler’s hull. Admiral Duvall had argued this point before accepting this assignment but his commanders had assured him that the Clansmen would not surrender and that it would not be a problem. He knew the Lyran Commonwealth would want to claim these warriors and their equipment which would probably cause another problem. “And another thing we will be surrendering to you not the Lyrans or the dezgra Wolves. You defeated us in battle not them.†The warrior said as if reading Duvall’s mind. The Admiral thought for several seconds it would be easier for him to deploy his Battle Armour Marine Battalion and wipe them out but he knew that it would see more damage done to the FSS Zibler that they didn’t need not did his command need a reputation for slaughtering those who could have surrendered.
“Screw it†he said signalling to the communications officer “Hell’s Horses I am Admiral Alexander Duvall I will accept your surrender as Bondsmen to the Federated Suns. You will be put on-board a Transport DropShip and taken along with your equipment to the Federated Suns where, if you prove your loyalty, you may become warriors in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.†He said cutting the link on the screen several units immediately signaled their surrender while others soon followed suit. Captain McLintock crossed over standing beside him.
“Sir, the Lyrans are going to go nuts at this…†he noted Duvall nodded “there are ProtoMechs out there we don’t have a clue where to start maintaining them while the Lyrans could use the tech to help rebuild some of their units. Not to mention the DropShips and Lola III.â€
“I know†Duvall snapped worse than he’d meant to “sorry Jim†he said a moment later catching himself “I wasn’t going to wipe them out. We will make do this time and the next time we will be prepared.†He said “the Lyrans can be happy with the Gold Knight†he noted.
“She’s a wreck†McLintock said looking at the screens “if the jump drive isn’t damaged they might be able to make her airtight and jump her to Alarion or the Ruins.†He said as he looked over the ship the Lola would probably need years of repairs to get her back operational. The Space Hunter would probably need the same although the damage to the ship was concentrated at the rear of the ship and might be easier to repair.
“Captain, prepare boarding teams to go on board the Space Hunter and the DropShips and secure them minimal armaments these people have surrendered to us. Have any surrendered Aerospace Fighters dock with their motherships or in absence of those craft dock with one of our carrier DropShips. I also want an update from the FSS Zibler and FSS Fire Fang on their damage and estimated repair times.†He commanded the younger man turning operational command over to the WarShip’s commander. “I’m going to try and draft a report to the First Prince and the Lyran Archon.†He said heading for the Command Centre’s exit hearing the WarShip’s commander wish him luck as he left.
Subtlety (McKenna-class Battleship)
Nadir Point, Outreach
Star League Protectorate
22nd October 3105
The Subtlety entered the Outreach system’s Nadir Point with a flash of light arriving in the point at the outer edge of the jump area. “We are being challenged by the Athena†Veronica Wilson said looking at Captain Leroy-Dietrich.
“Put it up†he said
“This is the Wolf’s Dragoons WarShip Athena to unidenfitied McKenna-class vessel. Identify yourself or prepare to be subject to defensive fire.†Leroy-Dietrich nodded to Wilson who activated their transceiver system.
“This is Captain William Leroy-Dietrich of the Subtlety my ship has no business with Outreach but I wish to travel to the planet for personal business.†He said clearing his throat.
“Outreach is under the protection of the Wolf’s Dragoons all trade must be done through the Dragoons or the Star League Defence Force.†The Athena’s communications person replied “any mercenary business must go through the Wolf’s Dragoons.â€
“I am a son of Outreach my business is my own, son, now I want clearance for a single DropShip to travel to the planet’s surface then I and a small party will depart the DropShip and see to some personal business and then we will leave Outreach.†Leroy-Dietrich said the line abruptly closed off and was silent for several minutes.
“Subtlety a single DropShip is authorized to travel to the planet†the Athena’s officer said.
Four days later the Subtlety’s Leopard-class DropShip arrived at Outreach and was escorted to the planet by Wolf’s Dragoons aerospace fighters. Ever since the ‘Riot of 3067’ the Wolf’s Dragoons had limited access to the world in an effort to protect its population but it had also slowed their rebuilding of the planet. Even with Star League Protectorate membership Outreach still bore the marks of the battle that claimed the life of General Jamie Wolf. As the ground car left the Leopard Captain William Leroy-Dietrich thought about when he’d first chosen to become a mercenary he’d grown up with stories of the Wolf’s Dragoons victories and watched as the Regiments prepared for battle there was nothing the Dragoons could not do but joining the famed mercenary band was never part of his plan. Instead Leroy-Dietrich had always wanted to join a small company and head into the periphery exploring the great unknown beyond the Inner Sphere before he had left he’d met her, Lorna Raphael-Ferguson, the lady of his dreams. A pilot like him they’d battled their way through the training centres on and around Outreach and within six months they had been married joined the same mercenary command, the Fifteenth Exploration Squadron, and headed into the periphery. They’d been happy for nearly ten years exploring the periphery looking for hidden Rim Worlds Republic bases before Lorna’s fighter had experienced a problem on a search patrol. For nearly an hour he had listened to her fighter slowly die around her as it fell into the atmosphere of a gas giant and there was nothing he could do about it. Orbiting over the planet William Leroy-Dietrich had been tempted to roll his fighter and dive into the atmosphere and follow her but he knew that Lorna would have never forgiven him for such an act.
Looking across at America Park today he was glad he hadn’t dove his fighter into the gas giant that day but returning to Outreach had brought it all back. Slowly the car moved through the City of Harlech until it reached the ruined MRBC Headquarters, the place that he and Lorna had met, William Leroy-Dietrich followed by America Park stepped out of the car and looked at the ruined building. “They’ve let the place go to hell†he said looking at the ruins they were taped off by the Dragoons and they looked like they had not been worked on for years.
“I’m surprised the Dragoons have let it lay like this†America said looking at the massive building that was left to ruin.
“It’s a memorial†Leroy-Dietrich said ripping the tape open stepping onto the grounds. He walked over to the steps that led up to the main doors and bent down placing a Captain’s rank insignia on the steps along with the Fifteenth’s badge. He didn’t have anything else of her that he wanted to leave behind “my love I might have found new love and new purpose but I have never forgotten you and never will†he said quietly looking down at the two insignia and up at the ruin. “This was where it all started and I would do it all over again†he said “I miss you†he said a tear running down his cheek “but you’re home now and I can’t stay here any longer.†He said rising back to his feet “I’ll see you again†he promised her turning heading back to America and the waiting car. Eight hours later their DropShip, now fully refueled and supplied, left Outreach and began heading back towards the Subtlety nearly four days later the Battleship left the system heading towards Galatea Station intent on never returning to Outreach.
-
Shadow Guard Command
Shasta, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
3rd November 3105
The Commander of the Wolf’s Dragoons General Sean Dorran surveyed the scene inside the Shadow Guard’s command base as the techs of the mercenary regiment stripped damaged weapons off of their units and worked their way through the salvage they had taken after a four day battle. The Shadow Guard had served the Free Worlds League well over during the fighting impressing the Dragoons command, in front of him was an equally impressive vehicle a Teppo Support Vehicle, where the Shadow Guard had acquired the Teppo and learned how to fight the way they did was beyond Dorran.
Walking past two troopers dressed in Longius Battle Armour Dorran entered the Shadow Guard’s command vehicle heading into the command room seeing Colonel Tim Storm going over the reports. “Welcome aboard General†the old man said extending his hand which Dorran shook.
“Thank you Colonel†Dorran said looking around it was the first time he’d been in a Teppo and he found them quite spacious inside. He’d already witnessed the Teppo’s command and artillery support capabilities over the last days of fighting. “You fought well your people should be very proud.â€
“I am very proud of them†Storm said studying the General “how can we help you?â€
“I’d like to make you an offer Colonel†Dorran offered Storm nodded for him to continue “you captured a significant amount of salvage from the Wolves Nineteenth Striker Cluster.†Dorran began along lines that Storm had expected “Clan technology is expensive to maintain. My Dragoons are not the force they once were but we have lots of expertise in maintaining the technology.â€
“We can learn to look after it†Storm said wanting to see how far Dorran would go.
“Aff I’m certain you would†Dorran said sure that the Storm Guard could adapt to the new technology. “However I have a counter offer for you my Dragoons will transfer to you a significant quantity of upto date Inner Sphere technology in exchange for your Clan technology.â€
“A significant offer†Storm admitted with it he could probably raise a fourth Mech Battalion and maybe more. “But I have a counter proposal General†Storm said he was happy to get rid of the damaged Clan tech but he wanted more off the Dragoons than standard tech for the salvage. “We’ll take a number of Inner Sphere Mechs equal to the base value of the salvage we’re giving you†he said which for anyone would be a complete bargain. Even taking a lower amount of Mechs the Shadow Guard would end up in front overall once they counted out losses from the battle. “And we’ll take training from your Dragoons.â€
“Training? Colonel from what I saw on the battlefield your people do not need training they are very competent in battle.â€
“It’s not my ground forces I need help with it’s my naval personnel†he said testing the waters but Dorran gave nothing away if the Dragoons knew of his WarShip this one wasn’t letting that out. “We have a League-class Destroyer which we’ve salvaged and slowly repaired with the Free Worlds League’s assistance she’s almost ready to go back into service but my crew have been trained on DropShips and JumpShips a destroyer is a completely different animal.â€
“The Free Worlds League could help you with that…†Dorran pointed out wondering why Storm had turned to the Dragoons for this help “my Dragoons have not trained others since the troubles on Outreach it is something in our past.â€
“It may be in your past but it’s the price for this salvage†Storm said “and if I read you correctly General you want this salvage so you can continue to rebuild Delta Regiment.†He said pushing what he knew of the Wolf’s Dragoons.
“You are well informed†Sean Dorran said smiling at Storm using the knowledge he had at the right time. The Dragoons used to be like that opportunistic ready to pounce on a battle or on a piece of information without hesitation but they’d lost that somewhere. “You have a deal. I’ll have my people travel here and then on with your people to your base of operations. I will be sending a security force with my people†he warned the commander of the Shadow Guard.
“I would expect nothing less General but your people will be treated as my personal guests I assure you.†He promised the other mercenary extending his hand.
“To the beginning of a profitable relationship for both of our commands†Sean Dorran said shaking Tim Storm’s hand.
Circle of Equals, Ebon Guard Command
City of Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Territory
11th November 3105
In a Circle of Equals Star Colonel Thomas Ward, commander of the Second Ebon Guard Cluster, challenges and defeats the Loremaster of the Clans Miguel Icaza over a disagreement regarding the treatment of the lower castes on Tukayyid. Until now the position had been filled by a Loremaster or Oathmaster from one of the remaining Clans but because Ward defeated Icaza in single combat the Star Colonel claims the position for himself stating that if the Clans wish to replace him they will have to defeat him in battle.
Like many warriors of the Ebon Guard Thomas Ward is older than the traditional Clan warrior. He was born in 3063 on Tamar to Clan Wolf and has served with the Ebon Guard since it was formed in 3090. Unlike many other Clan warriors who have transferred to the Ebon Guard Thomas Ward continues to wear a standard Clan Wolf uniform which is adorned with both Clan Wolf and Ebon Guard insignia.
Civil Conflict
Lothian League, Periphery
20th November 3105
The Lothian League falls into Civil War after weeks of unrest and disagreement on who should take control over the nation. Open fighting only occurs on a few worlds but the Lyran Commonwealth are fast to capitalize on the nation’s failure moving on Thadora’s Land, Blanteff, Zorns Keep and Maxmillian. Without leadership from Lothario the mercenaries hired to defend these planets do not resist the Lyrans instead agreeing to surrender in exchange for transport to Galatea Station classing their contracts null and void.
On Maxmillian and Blantleff the Lyran Commonwealth and the District of Gibraltar come into conflict as both nations attempt to claim the planets. With the Rubinsky’s Light Horse Mercenary Command fighting against the Eighth Tamarind Militia Combined-arms Regiment on Maxmillian. After three months of cat-and-mouse fighting the Eighth withdraw from the planet leaving Maxmillian and Blandeff to the Lyran Commonwealth.
At the otherside of the Lothian League the Marian Hegemony strike at Paulinus but are unable to claim the Lothian world having to retreat after a few days fighting against the Gamma Twelve mercenary command.
Clan Wolf Territory
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
30th November 3105
Since coming to Solaris VII the Wolves had been attacked by the stables who called Solaris Home in the arena and on the streets. Today was another of those days several of the stables had decided that Clan Wolf’s time on Solaris needed to come to an end. Preidictibly the SLDF Peacekeepers on the planet were out of position to stop the stables so now Clan Wolf would reply. Recently crowned champion of the Star League Games Star Captain Beckham Kerensky breathed heavily as he turned his damaged Tomahawk II OmniMech towards the incoming enemy Mech. “We have Jade Falcons of the Zellbrigen Stable on the field†he said looking at sensor readout on the Kraken XR as its autocannons barked to life ripping into the left hand side of his OmniMehch’s armour.
“Kill them†Star Colonel Ivan Ward his commander and another winner of the Star League Games commanded.
“Aff†Beckham replied triggering both of his shotgun-type autocannons ripping open the side of the Kraken. Moments later he triggered both of his OmniMech’s pulse lasers and the extended range large laser under the cockpit burning down the side of the Kraken as it turned. The Kraken XR reeled under the hits but its laser reflective armour protecting it from most of the damage. Long range missies and autocannons flew between the two Mechs as the Kraken returned fire. Beckham Kerensky loved since Mech combat and against a Mech of equal size he’d have his work cut out. Dancing his massive one hundred ton OmniMech to the right the Wolf warrior opened up with another paired autocannon blast ripping into the enemy assault BattleMech. The Kraken returned fire causing more damage with its autocannons and laser. Beckham opened up with his Mech’s lasers again and again seeing little damage “stavag laser reflective armour!†he snapped angrily “let’s see you absorb this†he said stomping his OmniMech forward at nearly fifty-four kilometres per hour closing the gap between the two huge Mechs rapidly ducking his Mech’s right shoulder as he approached Beckham Kerensky intentionally broke Clan duelling rules by slamming his Tomahawk II into the Kraken staggering the Jade Falcon BattleMech backwards. As the Kraken stepped back he fired both LB-autocannons and his quartet of anti-personnel gauss rifles ripping open the Kraken’s armour. The rotary autocannons of the Jade Falcon BattleMech spat to life again tearing into the Tomahawk’s armour as the warrior held down on the triggers until the inevitable happened one of the cannons jammed. Beckham stepped forwards again ignoring the damage firing his autocannons and AP gauss again chipping away at the armour before kicking out at the Kraken smashing the Mech’s right knee actuator forcing the Kraken back again. Both of the Kraken’s missile launchers came alive at near point blank range tearing into the Tomahawk causing heavy torso and head armour damage. As the cockpit bounced about from the massive hit Beckham Kerensky’s head slammed into one of the overhead screens giving the Kraken some breathing space and time to pull back surprisingly the Kraken didn’t open up on Beckham’s Tomahawk instead continuing to pull back.
“Take a breath, take stock, and here we go†Beckham Kerensky said ignoring his head injury moving forwards the Kraken turned towards him as he closed opening fire with both of his autocannons Kerensky realized the warrior had spend the moment to clear the jammed rotary and cursed giving the warrior that time as the autocannons opened new holes in the Tomahawk’s armour. “No breaks this time†he promised his enemy charging forward firing his autocannons and AP gauss again concentrating on the crippled right knee. Kerensky was happy to see the armour give way exposing the remains of the structure triggering his large pulse and extended range lasers he aimed holes created by his autocannons blowing the limb completely off the BattleMech. The Kraken was unable to stand as the right leg snapped under the weight of the BattleMech and began to fall Beckham Kerensky followed the Kraken down firing his weapons into the falling Mech shattering the Mech’s torso and head armour killing the warrior underneath. This was his second kill of the day but it would not be the last scanning the area nearby Kerensky saw markers for the other Mechs of his Star and moved to join them.
Several hours later Star Colonel Ivan Ward sat opposite Colonel Waleed Barkawi the commander of the First Solaris Security Regiment of the Star League Defence Force. “Colonel with two Regiments of Star League Defence Force personnel on this planet you were still unable to stop heavy damage being done to the Wolf forces on planet.â€
“We were deployed to another disturbance at the south of the city.†Barkawi replied visibly annoyed by the lapse in security “this was a distraction intent on keeping us busy. They must have taken months if not years to plan this assault.â€
“One consolation is we were able to destroy the Jade Falcons on the planet.†Ivan Ward said
“As long as your people remain on this planet there will be trouble…†Barkawi began before Ward interrupted.
“If you wish us to flood Solaris with troops and turn the streets into a bloodbath then we will but Clan Wolf is not leaving this planet.â€
“I did not think so†Barakawi said looking Ward up and down “what I meant was your forces on planet simply increase the tensions on this planet. Your continued dominance of the games is another issue.â€
“Because we are better than the other warriors on planet it causes problems? I am sure there are others who have dominated Solaris previously Quiaff?â€
“Yes but generally they were not state based. The Lyrans have always held a home advantage but the others have been able to bring them down which has kept the people content.â€
“We have not had the same successes in the regular championship. The people should be glad that Clan Wolf has not tried to dominate all of the games on Solaris VII.†The Wolf warrior stated “I suggest that Clan Wolf be allowed to take a more active roll in the security of Solaris VII and allowed to arrest those we class as threats.â€
“That is not happening not while we remain on this planet†Barkawi stated “which brings us back to turning the streets of Solaris into a bloodbath.â€
“There is another way.†Ward suggested “Solaris ceases to be a protectorate of the Star League but does not become a world of Clan Wolf.†He said rising up from his chair “instead a joint SLDF and Clan Wolf force is formed to defend Solaris from all enemies foreign and domestic.â€
“Commanded by? SLDF troopers will not fight their superiors to gain command†Barkawi stated “nor is Solaris likely to take well to a Clan officer in command of Wolf units that have sole responsibility for protecting this system. People will not feel comfortable with Wolf forces in charge of security on this planet.â€
“It does not have to be purely a Wolf and SLDF force we could include elements of all of the Clans make the defence of Solaris a multinational force.†Ward suggested “the Ebon Guard on Tukayyid is made up of warriors from all of the Clans. Your Star League Defence Force is made up of elements of all of the Star League’s member states. Between the two we can form a force that will defend Solaris VII independent of the Clans and of the Inner Sphere create an open system for all if you will.â€
“Like Tukayyid? But that remains a closed system correct?†Barkawi said challenging Ward’s idea that Solaris would remain an open system.
“Then we open Tukayyid to visitors†Ward suggested “with restrictions of course†he said thinking that he didn’t want masses of Inner Sphere people wandering around the Clan capital. “Unfortunately we cannot have SLDF units on Tuakkyid that is a compromise we are not willing to make.â€
“I am open to your plan but I will need conformation from the Star League Council and my superiors.â€
“Aff I will need conformation from the Loremaster of the Clans and likely the Clan Council as well especially for Tukayyid.†Ward said as Barkawi rose from his seat offering Ward his hand which the Clan Star Colonel shook.
It would take a further three months for the Star League Defence Force and Clan Council to secure an agreement over the future of Solaris VII with Colonel Waleed Barkawi confirmed as the first commander of the Solaris Security Command. With a united command on Solaris and surrounding each facility on the planet, including Clan Wolf’s facilities, the tensions on the planet continued to simmer but were no longer at the stage of open fighting. An agreement was made between the Star League Defence Force and Clans for traders to be allowed access to Tukayyid to openly trade with the Clans although with great restrictions placed on visitors to the planet including that no-one is welcome within the grounds of the City of Andrey.
-
Time to finally end 3105. My thanks to marauder648 for the help with the Hell's Horses AFFS fight as I had severe writers block trying to write the piece.
Duke of Saffel Residence
Saffel, Alya Prefecture
District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
4th December 3105
As the Duke of Saffel Dean Singer entered his office within his official residence he knew there was something wrong. There had been people against his appointment to the leadership of Saffel but the danger had never felt so closer. Dean Singer reached for the light switch to his office and it was the last thing he did. Moments later the office, along with the one time Duke of Saffel, was incinerated by an explosion which took out that half of the residence killing fourteen others who were in the building.
With emergency services charging to assist their Duke his personal BattleMech a customized Huron Warrior imported from the Capellan Confederation, at great cost to Singer and the people of Saffel, exited the residence’s reinforced Mechbay firing its silver bullet gauss rifle and pulse laser into the emergency services as he escaped into the night.
Days later the assassin and thief was identified as small time crook Bobby Winchester a known gun and drug runner but someone who had to date never resorted to violence. With the Duke murdered, the leader of the local constabulary and the head of the planetary militia killed in the attack no-one is able to asset control over the planetary government before several transport ships leave the system including one carrying Bobby Winchester and the stolen Huron Warrior. In an effort to support the planetary government Dieron dispatch the Sixteenth District of Dieron Regulars, a green unit, off of Dieron to bring order to Saffel.
Planning Rooms, Celestial Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
14th December 3105
The Celestial Wisdom Chancellor Dao Shen-Liao stood listening to his advisers the war against Oriente continued well with attacks on Pella II, Shuen Wan and Anegasaki the Confederation’s goal now clear to Oriente under the Celestial Wisdom’s Banner like Andurien before it. “Our forces are rolling back Oriente defenders even with their Orbital Defence Guns.†Sang-jiang-jun Erin Liao, the Chancellor’s wife, said leading the briefing. “Naval and ground forces from both nations have sparred in the Pella II system. Our naval forces have destroyed the OPS Fletcher in that system but the Fourth Oriente Hussars continues to resist on the planets surface…†she said pausing as a young officer entered nervously she turned to the Chancellor. “Sire, the Santorini Battle Group have been spotted…â€
“Excellent where?†The Chancellor demanded the Santorini Battle Group was home to Oriente’s only Thera-class Carrier to kill it had been the Chancellor’s goal for years.
“Over Sarna†she reported seeing Dao-Shen’s rage rising “it appears that they crossed the border at Sakhalin and quickly moved on Sarna they have also struck at Quemoy.†She said reading the briefing. “Oriente has called for our withdrawal from their territory or they will destroy our WarShips and our ground forces on the Sarna Supremacy worlds†she said.
“They cannot hope to take and hold Sarna while we will be on Oriente in weeks.†Dao-Shen Liao stated confidently.
“If the rest of the Free Worlds League joins with Oriente we will lose all of the Sarna Commonality†she warned. “Davion will not sit on his throne and watch as Oriente take our territory. Without Sarna to administer and control its Commonality we will lose the territory completely.†She said continuing her warning.
“We will not surrender!†Dao-Shen Liao snapped “order our forces to dig into their positions on Sarna and prepare the invasion of Oriente!†He said turning leaving the planning room to Sang-jiang-jun Erin Liao and her commanders. As Sian refuses to surrender the District of Oriente land ground forces on Sarna while naval and ground forces from both sides engage each other in multiple systems setting the border between these nations on fire.
Liberation
Grundwald, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
30th December 3105
With the FSS Zibler still under repairs in the Summit system the Federated Suns navy units in conjunction with the Lyran Commonwealth military moved on Grundwald and Borghese. While the Borghese system had surprisingly fallen easily to the Lyran forces in the Grundwald system they had found a Halcyon-class Cruiser and an elite cluster of ground forces. With the Lyran Commonwealth’s LCS Typhoon, a Mjolnir-class Battlecruiser, beside them escorting the AFFS units it was time to engage the Hell’s Horses. In the FSS Reinhart Steiner’s command centre Admiral Alexander Duvall glanced over at their guest and nodded for her to continue. “This is Star Colonel Amanda Leroux to defending forces I challenge for control over this system for Clan Mountain Wolf and the Lyran Commonwealth.†She said confidently Duvall had to admit when she had come on board she had not liked the Wolf warrior but she and the others from her Clan who were on board had adjusted well to the structure on board the FSS Reinhart Steiner.
“Wolf you are on a Federated Suns WarShip do not attempt to fool us.â€
“You will see that this vessel and the others with it are identified as Lyran Commonwealth vessels. I am a Mountain Wolf Cluster commander and I am fully in control of this battle.†She said turning to the air-boss “deploy aerospace fighters on all vessels. Order our DropShips to assume combat formations.†She said from the belly of the FSS Reinhart Steiner aerospace fighters with AFFS, Mountain Wolf and Lyran Commonwealth insignia launched from the craft. Several of the Federated Suns aerospace fighters had been replaced with those from Clan Mountain Wolf as had several of their DropShips. “As you can see my forces are my own.â€
“You will accept a Batchall Quiaff?†The warrior asked a single Halcyon-class Cruiser and support DropShips would not be enough to turn back the assault forces against them.
“Aff†Amanda Leroux said carefully intent on not drawing the Inner Sphere forces under her command into a Clan bidding war.
“I bid a single Halcyon-class Cruiser, four DropShips, their attached support units and the First Horde Cluster to the defence of this system.†The Hell’s Horses commander responded a couple of moments later.
“I respond with a single Avalon II-class Cruiser, its support craft and the First Commonwealth Guards Regiment to capture this system. I will not be hobbling my forces further with a smaller bid.â€
“Well bargained and done†the Horses commander said surprisingly quickly without even a single barb about the lack of a smaller bid.
“Contact the FSS Jackson Davion and Star Captain Rygard Carns†Amanda Leroux commanded moments later there was a connection between the two WarShips. “Star Captain your vessel and crew will lead the battle into this system.†She said as per the Lyran, Federated Suns and Mountain Wolf agreement there were Mountain Wolf warriors embedded on board every WarShip, DropShip, fighter squadron and ground force battalion. In each communication with the defenders of the systems the Mountain Wolves would lead meaning that any challenge came from the Mountain Wolves and every captured unit would go to the Mountain Wolf Clan helping rebuild it. Amanda Leroux was sure that both the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth would end up with at least some of the salvage but the Mountain Wolves would gain the first choice and the best of their captures.
With the FSS Jackson Davion and her escorts moving away from the AFFS fleet the Avalon II class cruiser began launching her fighters as did her escort group. The three escorting Pocket Warships moved forwards at high speed, trying to close the range.
“Sir we’re getting a good clean data-link between all elements. ID scans show a pair of Outpost Defenders, one Titan and an Arcadia running escort, the cruiser the CHH Nightmare's Edge is at the centre of their formation following at 600 km distance.â€
“Time to intercept?â€
“At current speed, thirty minutes.â€
Aboard the Titan class Carrier Bon Homme Richard it was as scene of organised chaos on her forward hangar bay. Under way there was gravity and this made life easier for the tech’s as they hauled weapon pods and linkages from their magazine elevators.
“Technician Jones, I do not care if the ghost of the Great Father himself appeared and bid you to halt, you WILL get my Star’s fighters reequipped before launch.â€
The Technician, a long standing member of the Richards crew knew how to deal with arsey aerospace pilots; he had been doing it for twenty years.
“My men are trying their best, but we only have enough weapon pods to rearm six of your craft! The remainder will have to go into battle in the Charlie configuration.â€
“Explain why.â€
‘Because we were not expecting you do to anything more than be a ****** shuttle for Elementals you arrogant ass.’ Is what Jones wanted to say, instead he gestured to the row of tiger stripe painted Kirghiz fighters that aerotechs were swarming over whilst exoskeletons helped with the heavy loading. “Simple logistics and the operational role of Lightning Star prior to the deployment in system. We are trying our best, I can give you two Primes, two Deltas, one Bravo and an Echo but the rest will have to go out as Charlies. Is that acceptable Quiaff?
“Aff†Inwardly Star Captain James Hawker growled, instead he just nodded. After arriving in orbit his Star had been acting as a quick deployment force, carrying Elementals from point to point at the beck and call of the Horde, demeaning but important work. Now with half stores aboard there simply wasn't the equipment to fully arm ten of the big fighters.
“Very good Star Captain, now can you please get out of the bloody way whilst we sort your fighter out. She will be an Echo and neg you do not get a say in the matter.â€
FSS Jackson Davion
“Hostiles are launching fighters. Visigoths from the Outposts, they are forming up into a Star. Another ten from the cruiser, Titan is launching now Sirs. Reading…One star of Sulla’s one Star of hrm…Tyre’s and..shise..one of Kirghiz Sirâ€
On the holographic displays the Clan ships and fighters took position, the Titan hanging well back, she was no warship and despite its great size, was achingly vulnerable, the two Outposts and the Arcadia though were coming forwards along with every fighter the Horses had. It was no ill-disciplined rush either, they were keeping close together, their fire lanes overlapping.
“Sensors what are those launching from the cruiser?â€
“Pelican class shuttles sir…damn that’s a lot of them…count is 18..22..28..30!â€
Captain Leonard Kyle glanced at his Mountain Wolf companion “The Pelican is an assault shuttle and primary mover; they can carry Elementals but they are not built for breaching operations.â€
“How many Elementals?â€
“Twenty five depending on weight of course. Twenty-five standard suits.â€
“And you say they’ve no mag clamps?â€
“Aff, they could deposit troops on the hull but they cannot lock onto us and cut their way inside.â€
“CAG! Keep an eye on those damn shuttles; I don’t fancy getting boarded today.â€
“Roger that Sir.â€
“Sir! We are within range and have a good feed from our escorts.â€
“Very good. Guns, target the cruiser, she’s the threat, have our escorts engage their DropShips and fighters. That Kirghiz Star’s a priority target.â€
The ships fighters were all brand new, the Admiralty wanted to put their best in combat and test them, and a mixture of Corsair 12D’s and Cutlasses formed her air group, but still it was 32 fighters against 50.
A dozen affirmatives rang out before the Jackson Davion shuddered slightly as her guns and missiles began their firing sequences. Guided by the Naval C3 her guns were tracking the Clan cruiser as it lumbered forwards behind its escorts. It seems the Clanners knew about the C3 on the Suns warships, they were all moving forwards, even the cruiser was at a full 1.5g burn her gauss rifles spitting in the dark. But at this range and with C3’s inherent advantages the Federated Suns cruiser scored the first hits as a pair of NAC rounds detonated on impact with the Clanner’s hull. The Avalon’s missiles were having a harder time though, only one got through the barrage of AMS fire and her flak belt as the Clan cruisers shorter ranged guns also engaged the inbound missiles.
“Enemy forces are continuing to close Sir.â€
“Good, Helm! Bring us to Red 119, down 15. Guns fire as you bare!â€
As the Jackson Davion began her turn to Starboard the CHH Nightmare’s Edge kept on charging forwards. The Halcyon was taking hits but her thick armour was absorbing them for now whilst giving back as best she could against her bigger and faster opponent.
CHH Nightmare's Edge
Gripping the arms of his chair as the Edge rocked from another hit, this one further along her dorsal hull, Star Commodore Karina Dwelley grinned “Release the hounds! Have Stalker flight follow them in!â€
On the holo-display the fighter brawl was a confused tangle of signals as the fighters threw themselves into the battle against their opposite numbers. The Arcadia Gravewalker was the biggest return amongst the melee, her commander Star Captain Tara Bolt throwing the assault ship around with all the skill and grace she and her crew were renowned for. Still it was a tough fight, the three Federated Suns assault ships were big and shockingly well-armed. They were also feeding data to the cruiser and she was taking full advantage of that and her gunners knew their business. Still her surprise should stop that. The Pelican’s surged forwards, ECM’s going live in an overlapping barrier of howling and more importantly concentrated electronic noise, thrusters blazing as they opened the throttle and charged. Not all of the shuttles were carrying Elementals, most were down on the world below but still the 75 on-board the Nightmare’s Edge were more than willing to attempt a boarding action.
FSS Jackson Davion
“Sir! We’re being jammed!â€
“What? What the hell’s going on!â€
“Not our systems but the C3’s lousy with interference. Attempting to re-establish links now Sir!â€
“Assault shuttles inbound!â€
“Sir! It’s those shuttles! They are jamming the link between us and our escorts.â€
“Helm! Continue the turn, increase thrust. All hands stand by for heavy thrust. Helm put our stern to them, Guns! Target those damn shuttles with the missiles.â€
On the holo-display the Clan ship was starting a turn even as one of her Outposts burst apart, gutted by the guns of the Stalwart, but the Clanner fighters were everywhere, his Air group was holding its own but they were outnumbered and unable to break off, when they did, more Clanner’s jumped onto them after waiting and with a wedge of assault shuttles charging on in with the risk of up to 750 Elementals being carried it was just a risk that could not be born. The Jackson Davion’s engines flared to life as she slewed to her new course, pulling ahead of the slower Nightmare’s Edge. She was fast. The Pelicans were faster.
Even as their WarShip ‘mother’ was embattled the Suns cruiser’s escort group were finally overcoming their foes. The Arondight class was built for this kind of battle, a freewheeling brawl and their cannons were spitting as fast as they reloaded, heavy armour taking fire despite repeated attack runs from the Horse fighters. With one Outpost down and the other bleeding air from a 20-meter crater in her side from an internal explosion the Federated Suns Pocket Warships turned their guns on the flank of the Nightmare’s Edge even as the Clan ship fired into the Jackson Davion’s stern.
Not every Pelican carried Elementals, and the Jackson’s anti-fighter defences were filling space around the cruiser with a blizzard of Gauss shards, missiles and pulses of laser light, swatting them from space in short lived puffs of flame and spinning debris. But enough got close to deposit their cargo across the upper hull of the Federated Suns cruiser. Of course such a manoeuvre was not without risk, disembark too quick and the suits mag boots might not grip and you’d be sent spinning away from the rapidly maneuvering cruiser with no hope of rescue. This happened to eight Elementals, whilst another two didn’t even leave the hull, one hit too hard and shattered his knees and was immediately WIA, the other got hopelessly wedged as he bounced along the hull between the main hull and a radiator vane. The sixty-five surviving Elementals had been spread liberally over the dorsal section of the Jackson Davion the assault far from coordinated. This made things easier for the Jackson’s defending Marines but the Clanners were ALL in Gnome battle armour which despite its age was still a deeply formidable design.
With the Suns cruiser turning to bring her vulnerable stern out of the fire the Nightmare’s Edge was pouring into it the two cruisers were getting into a more traditional broadside battle, hammering one another with every weapon at their disposal. It was as much a battle of wills as a battle of endurance. But with her hull battered and air bleeding from a dozen gashes in her flank and spine the Nightmare started to turn away first, cutting thrust, letting the Davion ship pull ahead, the range opening rapidly.
“Stalkers! This is Stalker lead, anyone still with me?â€
“Aff, Stalkers seven, eight and two!â€
“Good! The Edge cannot take much more, we will attack the cruiser’s stern. If we can damage her engines then the Edge will be able to withdraw.â€
All four remaining Kirghiz were in a bad way, but they were still armed and flying, their Tyre escorts having suffered heavily trying to cover them from the faster and very agile Davion fighters. The alert receiver on Hawker’s fighter blared as the Jackson Davion’s gunners locked onto the new threat even as the Pelican's wheeled overhead, strafing ineffectually at her hull with their missiles.
The four assault fighters bore in, their pilots jinking and throwing their 100 tonne craft around, jammers trying to throw off the cruisers gunners even as they were fired upon.
Stalker Eight erupted into a fireball as a Barracuda missile slammed into its belly; Two was bisected by a concentrated blast of laser fire before they got through the main flak belt. Near wingtip to wingtip the two Kirghiz opened fire as one. Hawker’s HAG-40’s spraying clouds of hyper-velocity slugs over the Jackson’s stern.
FSS Jackson Davion
“Sir! The jamming’s gone! Link re-established!â€
“Finish that Clanner bastard off now!†Hard a port!â€
There was a flash as something was hit. White vapour started pouring from a breech on the Jackson’s stern. Hawker spotted it, but so too did the cruiser’s engineering detachment. It was fuel, the cruiser’s semi-modular fuel tanks had taken a hit and it was leaving a trail of rapidly expanding frozen hydrogen slush behind them. The leaking tank was jettisoned a moment later and it was already several hundred meters astern and under the Jackson when the inevitable happened. A particle bolt passed through the Hydrogen and it ignited in what could be called a deflagration. The difference between a deflagration and explosion is that the former is a rapid burn. In this case along the trail left by the fuel tank, following it to its source.
Even as the Nightmare’s Edge finally succumbed to the relentless pounding of the Jackson’s guns the Federated Suns ship was suddenly ‘kicked’ from behind as a tank with nearly 800 tonnes of fuel in it exploded just behind her. The blast threw the ships stern up and her bow down, one engine smashed by the sudden blast, its vents wrecked whilst the blast was still close enough to act like a sub-kiloton explosion melting and burning parts of the hull, the energy of the explosion also sending a heavy shock through the cruisers hull which threw crew against the hull and knocked systems out of alignment.
Further astern the Nightmare’s Edge was tumbling to port, bleeding air as her thrusters fired to try keep her upright whilst her crew abandoned ship. Her back was broken, her armour punctured whilst internal fires raged along her starboard hull section. Of her fighter group, eighteen would survive to pull back, leaving no Davion survivors. The crippled Arcadia Gravewalker was barely active, held together by the efforts of her crew and what little armour remained along her hull. Only the Bon Homme Richard was undamaged, the Titan hanging back the entire time, only moving forwards now to pick up escape pods and lifeboats.
Aboard the Jackson Davion her crew began the serious task of saving the ship. With one primary thruster down and with shock damage across the ship as well as having a badly battered hull the cruiser was in a serious way, if not at risk of being lost. The Clan borders had been met and there was still fighting along the upper hull. Some Elemental’s had forced their way inside and caused considerable damage before being contained and eliminated. Only when the Nightmare’s Edge erupted in a ball of light as her fires finally reached her magazines did the survivors finally surrender and accept being made Bondsmen.
Space belonged to the Allied forces but it had come at a heavy cost. All thirty-four fighters were gone, although eighteen pilots had managed to eject safely and were recovered. The Arondight class dropship Fire and the Flame was so badly damaged that she had to be abandoned and scuttled, whilst the other two were mauled and could barely dock for repairs themselves. The Jackson Davion herself had taken moderate damage but her engines had taken a heavy amount of damage and the shock damage had in the words of her chief engineer “Utterly frakked the jump drive. At least for a while anyhow.†Until it was repaired and precision calibration carried out, the Jackson Davion was going nowhere.
Ground Battle
Grunwald, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
30th December 3105
From space to the ground the First Commonwealth Guards Regiment dropped through the sky towards the ground. The regiment was actually more like a reinforced combined-arms force with five battalions of forces between their combined units. The Lyran forces despite having the upper hand in space knew that they would be facing a tough ground battle and immediately this became clear as capital missiles rose from the surface striking towards their DropShips. The Lyrans defence systems activated but they were not enough to stop the incoming missiles and several DropShips took heavy damage as they came into land. Fortunately the Lyrans had been ready for this attack and the crews had prepared their vessels for heavy combat taking every precaution. As the Lyran DropShips landed Lyran BattleMechs charged from the DropShips firing on the Horses who were arrayed against them between Lyran BattleMechs and vehicles were others carrying Clan Mountain Wolf’s insignia carrying on the same trend used against the Hell’s Horses in space.
Surrounding the Lyran Commonwealth landing zones were warriors of Clan Hell’s Horses who filled the air with weapons fire tearing into the Inner Sphere forces while artillery missiles slammed into their BattleMechs and DropShips. From above Lyran and Mountain Wolf aerospace forces now dominated the skies but on the ground the fast moving Hell’s Horses forces were continuing to fight hard causing casualties in the Commonwealth Guards.
With continous aerospace fighter attacks and as more Lyrans and Mountain Wolves deployed into the warzone the Hell’s Horses were slowly overwhelmed by the firepower being brought onto them. Lyran aerospace fighter attacks also quickly located and neutralized the Hell’s Horses DropShips crippling their ability to maintain their units and eliminating their ability to withdraw from the planet. Within hours the Horde Cluster’s ability to fight had been diminished by lack of ammunition and supplies forcing the Horses to withdraw across the planet while being constantly harried by aerospace fighters and fast moving BattleMech forces. By the end of the third day the remaining two trinaries of the First Horde Cluster surrendered to the Mountain Wolf commander the remaining warriors taken as bondsmen to that Clan while the salvage was split evenly between the Lyrans and Wolves.
With the FSS Jackson Davion crippled in the system victory on the ground goes a long way towards justifying the FSN’s presence in the system. With the FSS Zibler under orders to return to the Federated Suns for extensive repairs the FSS Intrepid, a repair ship, and the FSS New Avalon, a Whirlwind II-class Destroyer are ordered to rendezvous in the Tikonov and then head to the Lyran Commonwealth to support the remaining units.
-
3106
Nova Cat Border Raid
Multan, Kandahar Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
4th January 3106
The Trial of Possession for Multan had began well the Draconis Combine commander of the Sixth Pesht Regulars Regiment had accepted the Nova Cat Batchall bidding their entire combined-arms regiment Katrine Devalis had bid a single Supernova from her Upsilon Keshik and the three trinaries of the 450th Assault Cluster both of the saKhan’s Upsilon Galaxy.
The Nova Cat forces had split in half Katrine leading Upsilon Keshik and half of the 450th force to the east of the Sixth while the other half of the 450th force had moved around the west side of the Pesht Regulars catching the Combine unit in a pincer movement. Katrine sat in her Deimos Assault OmniMech watching the battle unfold in front of her. The Sixth Pesht Regulars were not ready for the engagement and her half of the defenders were already caving under the pressure of her assault. “Continue forward. Star Colonel Sheldon Rosse we are driving them towards you.†She said moving her OmniMech over the frozen terrain. Why humanity had ever come to this frozen world was beyond her it lacked any sufficiently sized slopes for recreation, there were now massive mining operations that her people had detected and the cold temperatures made it hard to grow crops. It was like this world had been colonized purely to see how long it would take for it to kill the planetary population but humanity as stubborn as it was had refused to give up on the planet.
“Aff saKhan we have detected forces on our flanks but none have entered weapons range.â€
“Strange the Sixth appeared to be holding together in a single formation†she said moving her eighty-five ton OmniMech forwards towards the retreating enemy forces.
“Aff we believed that to be the case saKhan but we have detected multiple units moving along our flank. We are engaging remaining Sixth Pesht units.†He said replying as his units merged with the Sixth on Katrine’s long range sensors.
“Keshik move forwards the Sixth have already broken Zellbrigen so you do not need to pick targets let’s eliminate them.†She commanded moving her OmniMech forwards. Suddenly up ahead Katrine watched as several of the 450th’s unit markers disappeared. “Star Colonel Rosse report†she demanded not understanding how the units could have been destroyed so quickly by a defeated enemy.
“We’ve been attacked by an unidentified force which do not have Sixth Pesht markings†he reported moments later adding “they include a Deimos OmniMech.â€
“Deimos†Katrine Devalis repeated almost turning the OmniMech’s name into a curse only the Snow Ravens fielded multiple Deimos type OmniMech’s. “Keshik units accelerate your speed.†She commanded engaging the OmniMech’s MASC system carefully moving faster over the frozen icy terrain. The Assault OmniMech soon entered maximum range of the 450th Assault Cluster’s units and she saw additional OmnIMechs and BattleMechs all wearing the the insignia of Clan Snow Raven mixing freely with the Sixth Pesht Regular units attacking the remaining 450th units. “Dezgra†Katrine stated aiming her OmniMech’s two Extended Range Large Lasers firing them into an enemy Omen BattleMech. “This is Katrine Devalis saKhan of Clan Nova Cat to Snow Raven units you have interfered with a Trial of Possession as a result I declare this Trial void.†She said angrily “saKhan Katrine Devalis to 450th I call in the remains of the Cluster hot-drop on top of the Sixth Pesht’s positions target all enemies.†She ordered moving her Mech forward gaining a lock on the Omen for a second time this time engaging with twin Streak Long Range Missile Launchers sending forty long range missiles into the Snow Raven BattleMech.
In the skies above a Nova Cat Vanguard-class DropShip dived over the area opening fire on the area with particle canons, missiles, gauss rifles and lasers as BattleMechs, Battle Armour and ProtoMechs deployed from the DropShip right on top of the Snow Raven/DCMS forces. Katrine Devalis pushed her Deimos forwards maintaining her speed as she fired her Mech’s lasers and torso mounted rotary autocannon as fast as the weapons cycled tearing into the Omen ahead of her. The Snow Raven BattleMech turned to fire on her but was hit by a gauss rifle slug fired from a fast moving Shadow Cat OmniMech knocking its advanced tactical missiles off their target. As the missiles exploded all around Katrine’s OmniMech she pushed forward cutting to the right as her lasers cored their way through the enemy assault Mech’s armour and into its internal structure. The Omen pilot was not giving up as Katrine circled her enemy the pilot opened fire with its autocannon and pulse lasers burning several gashes in the Deimos left leg and lower left torso. Katrine kept her OmniMech moving twisting the Deimos’ torso to keep her weapons on the target the autocannon ground to a halt jammed from its constant use but her missiles screamed a “locked†tone and she unleashed another volley of long range missiles into the target causing a wave of explosions over the enemy BattleMech’s torso as the missiles overwhelmed the Omen’s anti-missile defence system. The Snow Raven Omen staggered backwards under the damage that Katrine had done straight into five Elementals who leapt up onto the Assault BattleMech swarming the target Katrine hated turning the kill over to the Power Armoured Infantry but their attack gave her the time needed to fall back, clear the jam on her autocannon and take stock of the battle.
What she saw despised her, the Draconis Combine unit had been completely destroyed by the Nova Cat attack even with the Snow Raven interference but now her units were being cut up by the increasing amount of Snow Raven units. It seemed there were far more Ravens on this planet than she’d originally thought. A notification activated on her OmniMech’s main screen which she looked at directly and blinked twice moments later her communication system activated. “saKhan this is Star Admiral Eric Bavros we have detected jump signatures incoming at the Zenith point we believe there are vessels preparing to enter the system.â€
“How many?†She asked to commander of the Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser Santin West.
“We believe at least four vessels. We are planning to be ready to engage them.†He said they had five combat vessels in his WarShip Star and a single Bug Eye-class Scout vessel and could take care of most threats leveled against them but Katrine did not need a naval confrontation right now.
“Negative Admiral keep your vessels out of combat we will be leaving the planet’s surface soon. Prepare all ships to leave the system when we return. Only engage enemy WarShips if you are threatened or engaged by enemy vessels.†She commanded thinking of her vision. She had attacked the Serpent and now the bird had attacked the Cat. It was time to strike down the Raven. She thought ‘remember your enemy’ she thought remember Grayson Rosse’s words thinking them over the Raven had turned themselves into her enemy by striking at her command now. She knew her vision was a true approximation of what was going to happen but it didn’t explain why the Ravens were helping the Serpent or what the winged cat was. She closed off the Admiral’s communication link before he could speak again then switched over to her remaining forces “this is saKhan Katrine Devalis to all Nova Cat forces, fall back to our landing zones, we are surrendering the field of battle.†She commanded there would be protests from Nova Cats who thought they could defeat the Ravens here and now but she didn’t care she wanted to hurt the Ravens far more than destroying the forces here on a nothing Combine planet.
With the Nova Cats falling back attempting to disengage the Snow Raven force did not pursue them towards their DropShips instead remaining on the field claiming the salvage and assisting the survivors of the destroyed Sixth Pesht. As the Nova Cats re-boarded their DropShips the Snow Raven vessels entered the system as expected Katrine Devalis wasted no time in contacting the Raven commander to pass on her fury that the Ravens had interfered with a Trial of Possession that the Draconis Combine and Nova Cats were abiding with and demanded Safcon. For the Raven WarShip commander’s part he appeared shocked that Snow Raven ground forces had assisted the Draconis Combine in fighting off the Nova Cat forces and that they had interfered with a Trial of Possession and immediately granted the Nova Cat’s safcon promising saKhan Katrine Devalis that he would meet with the ground forces commander in a Circle of Equals and ensure the matter was resolved.
Nearly a week later the Nova Cats transited the system and returned to their WarShips jumping clear of Multan. Instead of jumping back towards the Nova Cat’s Den as the other Nova Cat commanders had expected Katrine Devalis ordered the Nova Cats to Farstar a periphery colony that had once been home to a House Davion intelligence base before Clan Nova Cat had destroyed it in 3063. To this day Nova Cat shipping regularly traveled through the system checking to see if House Davion’s spies had returned or if others had moved in. Occasionally they discovered a raider unit had taken over the half destroyed/abandoned buildings of the old colony on the planet which gave the Nova Cats an excuse for some live fire training. This particular visit was for a different reason Katrine Devalis had no interest in searching for pirates on the planet instead she commanded Upsilon Galaxy to occupy the former colony world for Clan Nova Cat until she planned her next move against Clan Snow Raven her forces had been defeated but she wasn’t done with the Ravens yet.
FSS Bravery (First Prince II-class Battleship)
Kathil, Capellan March
Federated Suns
15th January 3106
Duchess Kym Hasek moves her command of the Capellan March to the FSS Bravery intent on continuing to Aerospace Fighters while coordinating with Kathil on defence of the March. The FSS Bravery has been specifically modified with an extensive command facility and mobile HPG system. The Duchess also confirms Richard Steiner’s promotion to Field Marshal with him continuing to command the rebuilding First Kathil Uhlans RCT while also being part of the structure on Kathil.
This move from the Capellan March command comes as Prince Burton Davion returns to active AFFS duty taking advantage of the Capellan Confederation’s preoccupation with the fighting on Sarna in attacking New Macao and Mandate. Despite the changes in his life Prince Burton Davion continues to lead from the front piloting his Templar III into battle against Capellan forces on New Macao while elsewhere his wife Sterling McKenna-Davion gives birth to her third child Christopher on New Avalon.
The Federated Suns attack comes as Oriente finally secures Sakhalin and Quemoy driving off Capellan defences while heavy fighting continues between Oriente and the Capellans on Sarna. The Duchy of Oriente’s command announces that the CCSS Xe Xin, a Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvette, had been destroyed in the Sarna system.
Rumours persist that in an effort to restore flagging Capellan morale the Capellan Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao had personally taken command of the recently launched CCSS Chancellor’s Sword and was enroute to the front-lines. The ship, like its sister ship the CCSS Chancellor’s Destiny, had recently been re-classified as a Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleship after being trialed under the classification of a Du Shi Wang-class Battleship (Upgrade) is based on the old Battleship but due to changes in the design is essentially a completely new class.
Royal Appointment
New Samarkand, Midway Military District
Draconis Combine
19th January 3106
Akira Kurita, son of Vincent Kurita and heir to the leadership of the Draconis Combine, joins the DCMS six days short of turning sixteen piloting a classic Dragon BattleMech on New Samarkand on his first day at the New Samarkand Military Academy. The young heir to the throne will be trained in all forms of combat and strategy at the Academy before joining a line regiment his uncle Warlord Minoru Kurita continues to rule the Draconis Combine stating that when Akira is ready he will turn over control of the nation.
Alshian Shipyards, Launching ceremony
Alshian, Alshian District
Rasalhague Dominion
24th January 3106
At the shipyards above Alshian the first two Bergen-class Destroyers constructed move out of the shipyards to begin trials before entering the Rasalhague Dominion Touman. The ships are designed to fill a gap in the Ghost Bear’s Navy where not all situations require a Leviathan II-class Battleship or a Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser. Each of the vessels are six hundred-and-fifty thousand tons in weight and are well armed and as long as most other militarizes Cruisers but the Ghost Bear designers had gone with the Destroyer description hoping it wouldn’t spark an arms race. Both vessels will complete WarShip trials in the Alshian system and travel between the system and Rasalhague before entering active service.
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Water Treatment Plant
Saffel, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
14th February 3106
“Everything’s set†the trooper said watching the complex ahead of them his sneak suit completely devoid of markings.
“All workers out?†Another asked he was wearing an identical sneak suit and stood off to the side watching the plant ahead.
“Yes, sir, we triggered the fire alarm they won’t be able to say for sure if there is a fire or not…†a third trooper said as people began to evacuate the Water Treatment Plant below “and there they go.â€
“Three give them a couple of minutes to evacuate then blow it†the second trooper replied continuing to watch the plant. Below the workers evacuated the facility onto the snow covered car parks. “Go†he ordered moments later the charges detonated leveling the facility its destruction would cause water shortages and riots further destabilizing the planet which was still reeling from the death of their planetary governor.
“Strike team withdraw full stealth egress†the commander said glancing around “remember if the Combine close down the spaceport you stow your gear and turn up to work in the morning.†He said they had been on Saffel for three weeks already working jobs in the capital city “you keep a low profile and ride out any of the troubles then evac when you can.†He said “now move out and may the Peace of Blake be with you.â€
Elsewhere on in the capital an explosion destroyed the generator that served the Hyper Pulse Generator disabling it cutting off Saffel from the rest of the Inner Sphere. With water shortages across Saffel and without communications beyond the system riots grow in severity across the globe leading to the Sixteenth Dieron Regulars Regiment cracking down heavily on the local population resulting in increasing civilian casualties.
Raid
Acidalia, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
16th February 3106
The Nova Cat Vanguard-class DropShip had landed unopposed on Taurian Concordat world of Acidalia. The world had recently been occupied by the Taurians and the defenders didn’t have the firepower to oppose the seventeen thousand-four hundred ton DropShip. From the DropShip nine BattleMechs, a single Nova Cat II OmniMech and several points of ProtoMechs had deployed creating a perimeter which held the Taurian Concordat defenders back while vehicles deployed from inside the heart of the vessel including several SM-1 and Snow Tiger Tank Destroyers.
In among the vehicles were a pair of recently developed Stealth Arrow Hovertanks the vehicles modified versions of the Snow Tiger OmniVehicle E configuration, which merged an Arrow IV Artillery Missile Launcher with the chassis, the Steath Arrow took the design a step further by adding reverse engineered Capellan Stealth Armour to create a far more deadly beast. The Nova Cats also test new variants of the Solace, Joust and Shoden during the eight days that they test Taurian defences. It is obvious to the Taurian defenders that the Nova Cats could overwhelm the defenders at anytime but that they have no interest in taking the planet or causing collateral damage instead using the entire encounter as a test for their new vehicles before pulling out of the system.
Meeting Room, Gravity Deck 4
Galatea Station, Galatea
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
23rd February 3106
The Subtlety’s arrival at the Galatea Station had not been unexpected nor had it been a surprise when a request came from Captain William Leroy-Dietrich for a party to come on board the station but what had been surprising was when the Captain had requested to speak with the command staff of the station instead of the MRBC reprentatives on the station.
“I do not plan on hiring my WarShip to the highest bidder†Leroy-Dietrich explained “the Subtlety was not designed as a true weapon of war she comes from an era where people could afford to turn a Battleship into a tool for teaching and training. I wish to continue the mission that the original Star League Defence Force set out for the ship and train those who need it.†He said walking around the room looking ‘out’ at what surrounded them it would have been impossible for there to be actual port holes instead the walls were covered in massive screens that displayed images of the space around the station which changed as the gravity deck rotated around the station’s hull.
“Then, with respect, why didn’t you turn it back to the Star League Defence Force?†Lt Commander Claudia Christian the station’s Executive Officer asked.
“I am a mercenary by trade I have been for most of my career but as I’ve gotten older I’ve begun to realize that money isn’t everything.†He half joked “I could have sold the Subtlety back to the Star League Defence Force or to any of the other nations we have passed through but I have a feeling that she would be turned into a weapon of war and sent to the front lines. This ship was not made for that…â€
“I think it was†Commander Christian said interrupting but Commander O’Hare spoke up before she could cause too much of a problem Christian was quick to defend the Galatea Station from any number of problems.
“Captain, what is it that you want from us? Galatea is an open system and the MRBC are based here you could register with them and operate your ship as you wish.†He suggested remaining seated at the desk.
“I do not intend for the Subtlety to be hired from one state to the next.†Leroy-Dietrich said “I want a home for my people and with your support I would like to make our home here.†He said turning back towards the station’s personnel “the Subtlety will support the defence of this station and this system and we will continue to train anyone who wishes our services. In exchange we would like free travel onto the station for our civilians and assistance with the continued repairs and maintenance for the Subtlety.â€
“That’s a lot of ship to repair†Christian said quietly.
“It’s also a lot of resources that this station and system could use as an ally.†O’Hare said rising from his chair “your ship and its resources will be a welcome addition to this system’s defence. I would ask that my pilots are allowed to train alongside yours without additional charge in exchange for your continued presence in this system. As far as repairs and maintenance I am sure that you will be able to find people passing through this system who will help you with that… for the right price.â€
“They would be welcome to join my fighters and our training classes some of the mercenaries I am sure would benefit from multiple viewpoints of aerospace fighter training.†Leroy-Dietrich agreed extending his hand which O’Hare shook.
Border skirmish
Illyria, Lothian League
Periphery
27th February 3106
On the world of Illyria the Free Worlds League’s Sixth Tamarind Militia Regiment and the Group W Mercenary Command, under Lyran Commonwealth contract, battle for command of the system. The Illyrian population do not support either side instead the planetary defence force martial their IndustrialMechs and combat vehicles to defend the planet’s civilian population moving them out of the combat zones.
For nearly six days a three way battle rages across Illyria with the population taking heavy collateral damage. Eventually Group W’s experience wins through against the Tamarind Militia forcing them off the planet. For nearly three weeks Group W remain on the planet but word arrives that the Lyran Commonwealth would not be dispatching further unit’s to the planet as Illyria was too remote to keep supplied. Following the casualties taken on Illyria the commander of the Group W, Colonel Andrew Bethke, decides to activate an escape clause in the unit’s contract with the Lyran Commonwealth. Unable to leave Illyria immediately the command accepts a temporary contract with the Illyrian Government helping the defenders improve the defences of Illyria while assisting in defending the planet from future Lyran Commonwealth and Free Worlds League attacks.
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Civil Disturbance
Saffel, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
8th March 3106
As civilian casualties continue to rise due to the rioting and fresh water problems on Saffel the Dieron Regulars are unable to bring an end to the problems without using force resulting in nearly eight thousand casualties in a single month. Over the border in the Star League Protectorate the Star League Defence Force are unable stand by and watch the planet rip itself apart under the command of Commanding-General Victor Focht the Second Knights of the Inner Sphere Regimental Brigade are deployed onto the planet along with several portable water purifiers, food and shelters for the population that had been affected by the riots. The Second Knights are also ordered to assist the Dieron Regulars in bringing peace back to the planet and, if necessary, to stop the DCMS unit from causing further heavy casualties to the population. With three infantry regiments and a reinforced Battle Armour Regiment at their disposal the Second Knights are seen as the perfect unit for the task.
With the arrival of SLDF forces on the planet the Draconis Combine’s Government protests the unsanctioned move but due to their inability to communicate properly with Saffel’s government and the the Dieron Regulars hap-hazard handling of the situation on the planet they do not make any overt moves against the SLDF.
Approach, CCSS Celestial Sword (Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleship)
Fletcher, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
17th March 3106
The CCSS Celestial Sword and her sister ship the CCSS Chancellor’s Destiny both jumped into the Fletcher system along with nearly a dozen assault DropShips and more than one hundred escort fighters. Defending the system the OPS Oriente and OPS Second Chance, both Monolisk-class Destroyers, waited for the Capellans. In the last weeks the Capellan Confederation had struck and taken Les Halles, Galloway VI and Anegasaki despite Oriente’s continued contesting of Sarna the Capellans morale appeared to have been boasted by reports that Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao was in personal command of their attacks against the District of Oriente while promised reinforcements from the other Free Worlds League nations had still be held back.
As nearly three regiments of Capellan Confederation ground forces charged towards the planet Fletcher’s Oriente-class Orbital Guns fired as one cutting down several of the incoming DropShips with their Naval Gauss Rifles. As aerospace fighters and DropShips engaged each other the two Capellan Battleships moved into position and began long range bombardment of the orbital platforms even as they turned their gauss rifles on the two Battleships combining fire with the two Monolisk-class Destroyers. Using their capital missiles, naval particle cannons and mass drivers the two Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleships swiftly cut down several of the orbiting weapons platforms opening gaps for Capellan ground forces to charge towards the planet but the defence fire from the defenders was enough to keep the Battleships away from the planet. With Fletcher contested by the Capellan ground forces and their WarShips pinned in by the Battleships the world is essentially placed under blockade.
Trial of Refusal, Clan Snow Raven Hall
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
29th March 3106
saKhan Katrine Devalis of Clan Nova Cat marched across the paving of the Snow Raven Clan Hall on Alphertaz, the home of the Snow Raven Clan on Alpheratz, nearly a week before her WarShip had arrived in the system and the Ravens had accepted her request for Safcon allowing her to travel to the planet’s surface.
“Nova Cat saKhan welcome to Alpheratz how can the Snow Raven Clan be of assistance to you today?†Khan Jacob Siegel said he was an Elemental by birth, although he had commanded a WarShip for most of his career, and towered over Katrine.
“Thank you for the warm welcome†she said curtly looking at the man he was older than Katrine with a muscular build and short cropped blonde hair. “I wish to declare a Trial of Refusal against your Clan.â€
“For what reason?†Jacob Siegel asked looking at the Nova Cat’s saKhan.
“Over the last few weeks we have found that you Clan have been training with the Draconis Combine.â€
“So…â€
“So your actions have endangered Nova Cat lives and your forces have involved themselves in a Trial of Possession that you were not invited into.†Katrine Devalis snapped interrupting the Snow Raven Khan.
“Your Clan has trained with the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns, the Sea Foxes train regularly against the forces of the Inner Sphere to show off their newest weapons and the Fire Mandrill’s relationship with the Rim Collection is well known.†Jacob Seigel said defensively.
“Aff, but none of the other Clan forces have interfered with an honour battle between two forces yours has.†Katrine Devalis said tossing him a data chip on it was the data that covered the battle between the Nova Cats and the Draconis Combine, their agreement of a Trial of Possession, and the Snow Raven interference.
“I disagree with your assessment but I agree to your challenge†he said looking down at the data chip but not looking at the data on it. “I will defend Snow Raven Factory Complex Sigma Four with my command Keshik comprised of a star each of Battle Armour, ProtoMech and BattleMechs. Each of these warriors is an elite warrior of the Snow Raven and will defend our Clan’s honour.â€
“I will contest your claim with two Stars of BattleMechs and a single combined star of Battle Armour and ProtoMechs.†She said surprised by the choice of Sigma Four it was an orbiting space station used by the Snow Ravens as a supply station and garrison point. “These warriors have fought with me for several years and are among the best in Clan Nova Cat.â€
“We will battle tomorrow.â€
“Seyla†they both finally said without another word saKhan Katrine Devalis turned and walked out of the room.
---
The next day the forces of Clan Nova Cat and Snow Raven arrayed against each other on the hull of the Sigma Four space station. saKhan Katrine Devalis felt sick sitting in the cockpit of her OmniMech despite hundreds of years of space travel it was the one place that humans did not belong. She also wished she’d bid aerospace fighters to combat the Snow Ravens but she’d followed the Raven Khan’s example and only bid ground forces.
“I am Khan Jacob Siegel leader of the Snow Raven Clan and defender of this trial.†The Elemental warrior leading Clan Snow Raven said beginning the Trial.
“And I am saKhan Katrine Devalis the challenger of this trial.â€
“May no others enter†Jacob Siegel said
“Seyla†she replied moving her OmniMech to the left across the hull of the space station. Due to the null gravity none of their units could use normal jump jets instead relying on space maneuvering units and magnetic clamps to remain attached to the ‘ground.’ She had ordered the other members of her command to target the enemy Elementals first with the specific purpose of eliminating Jacob Siegel.
Missiles, particle cannons and lasers shot between the two clan forces as each tried to out maneuver the other. Katrine Devalis cut off two particle beam shots and let off a stream of autocannon fire bringing down a Snow Raven Goshawk II. The impacts of the weapons cut the lighter BattleMech down tearing its left arm and right leg off the BattleMech sending the remains of the Mech into space as it lacked the magnetic grip on the space station’s hull. Long range missiles slammed into the hull around Katrine’s Deimos blowing small chunks out of the station’s armour but causing no major damage.
“We have the Snow Raven Khan’s unit†Jeffrey West reported from Katrine’s right flank cutting across the hull she fired her OmniMech’s weapons into a Snow Raven Summoner causing heavy damage to its torso and upper arm armour. Missiles and a particle cannon shot flew back towards the OmniMech the missiles flying off into space while the particle cannon burned into the armour on the Deimos’ right side.
“Keep him there I will be there soon†she said turning her attention back on the summoner hitting it with twinned autocannons sand-blasting the OmniMech with cluster munitions fired from the huge BattleMech sized shot guns. The Summoner reeled under the fire and began to stagger forwards firing its autocannon directly into the space station’s hull as the pilot fought the OmniMech Katrine didn’t give the pilot any time hitting it again with more weapons fire burning away armour plating exposing internal structure. Katrine stepped her OmniMech forwards and pressed the second trigger burning the enemy Mech’s legs with his Deimos’ particle cannons in the frozen emptiness of space the heat build-up was less noticeable for Katrine as she watched the Summoner’s leg collapse under the Mech’s weight.
Leaving the prone enemy OmniMech Katrine turned towards the Snow Raven Khan’s position as she approached she saw a point of Elementals leaping from Nova Cat Mech to Mech and opening fire on the Nova Cat Battle Armour and ProtoMech units. The fluid movements of the troopers showing their ease with their environment unlike some of Katrine’s own troops she watched their movement for a moment anticipating where they would be next she switched the autocannons over to solid shot explosive rounds and fired two volleys into the space station near the Elementals blowing open the hull knocking two of the suits completely off the hull. The remaining three Elementals jumped towards the Deimos Katrine stepped backwards opening fire with both arm mounted pulse lasers cutting another Elemental out of the formation. Katrine followed up with her fire with two salvos of autocannon cluster munitions which tore through the remaining two battle armour suits killing both troopers including the Snow Raven Khan. Two particle cannons suddenly slammed into the upper torso of the Deimos followed by several autocannon volleys and missiles blasting armour from the OmniMech’s chassis knocking systems offline on Katrine’s Mech she twisted her Mech’s torso blasting back at the Ravens with her autocannons and particle cannons holding her position.
The battle went on for nearly two hours after the fall of the Snow Raven leader with the remaining Snow Ravens fighting harder and longer than any of the Nova Cats had expected. Despite the station’s thick armour the fighting had breached Sigma Four’s hull in several places causing nearly a dozen casualties on-board the station. With the Nova Cat victory and the Raven leader dead Katrine Devalis deamed her Trial of Refusal a success and ordered a withdrawal of Nova Cat forces returning them to the claimed periphery world of Farstar.
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You really do like killing off Khans, don't you?
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They are Clan warriors they deserve to go out in a blaze of glory
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Next step - thank's to marauder648 for the first section and the little discovery
Command Bridge, Scipio (Merchant-class JumpShip)
Periphery, Unclaimed sytem
3rd April 3106
The Scipio was an old ship, in service for centuries to the Marian Hegemony as a troop carrier before being displaced by newer and more capable ships. The Merchant class JumpShip was instead consigned to ‘resource discovery’ patrols. Long and boring loops to the ‘south’ and ‘west’ of the Hegemony’s holdings, scouting systems, asteroid belts and comets for resources. Her two attached DropShips the Marcus and Aggripa were also very long in the tooth, both Buccaneer class, converted to act as mobile mining and surveying ships and bases had already undocked and they and a small swarm of shuttles were off inspecting the wonderfully exciting system of NA/42/D.
The system was in a word dull, dim brown dwarf and shoals of asteroids that would probably take weeks of scanning and checking. If something was found then it would be logged and reported back when the ship returned after her four-month journey finished.
“Sir, shuttle 41 is reporting a faint echo on their LIDAR, from their bearing at green 232 distances… roughly two million miles.â€
Captain Marc Behar snorted, putting his bulb of coffee down. “41? That’s Diego’s team right? If they have got more glitches with their sensors...â€
“Negative Sir, they are routing the data to us and it’s definitely something.â€
“An Asteroid?â€
“No sir, too much metal unless it’s a lump of solid metal drifting out there.â€
“Fine, have them go investigate and report back.†Marc leaned in, looking at the sensor reports “Could it be someone trying to sneak around unnoticed?â€
“Possibly Sir…I mean it’s over three million clicks from our location, and there are no jump points out there so it’s a bloody odd place to hide.â€
“Have 41 check it out, and spin up the jump drive just in case.â€
“And the DropShips?â€
“Lets hope their engines are running properly, they are less valuable than this ship.â€
“Aye, aye Sir.â€
Aboard the Oxen class shuttle there were a few groans from the four man crew. “That’s a three hour trip there and back for fraks sake!â€
“Fuel will be cutting it fine too.â€
“Quit your bloody grumbling, it’s an order so we obey, sure its bloody miserable but would you rather be outside in your vac-suits?†Pilot First Class Diego Pegg had once been a fighter pilot, but shrapnel from an air raid on his base had ended his fighter jock days, down-rated to fly shuttles he’d been with the Scipio for two years now.
“No boss.â€
“Exactly, now lay in a course and someone get me a tea.â€
Two hours later.
Half the crew of the shuttle were dozing when the LIDAR return receiver started its insistent chirping. “Report.â€
“Big return, solid metal mass, nothing on thermals or radar.â€
“Anything on visual?â€
“Zilch, too far away.â€
“Alright..lets do what we’re paid to do. Co-pilot keep your hand on the throttle, if we get a sensor lock I want you to open the taps and help me turn this big beast.â€
“You got it boss.†The Oxen was a big shuttle, 200 tonnes to be precise, and was in service pretty much everywhere often under different names. In Marian service they kept the original name, stripping out their machine guns in favour of a little bit more stowage space for the four crew and any passengers. But even under the best circumstances they turned like a horse before the plough and accelerated about as fast as one too.
“Frak me…â€
“What you got Kathrin?â€
“Visual… on… a ship… dunno what she is, never seen that design in my life.â€
The young radar operator was fresh out of the academy, and this was in essence training for her, she was known to be a ‘spotter’ damn good at IDing military kit visually, and to hear her flummoxed was something new.
On the small screen the image was grainy; the long range cameras were using star light and thermal optics to resolve the image in a whitish green. The ship was a curious design. Over four hundred meters long, its bow dominated by a large bridge section that looked like a sledgehammer head. A narrow ‘neck’ went back to a simply massive rotating section that was easily two hundred meters in diameter, sticking out of the fairly narrow hull of the ship and running back for over a hundred meters before the thin hull emerged once more towards the blocky engine section.
“Any IFF?â€
“Nothing sir, no thermals, not even an erg of power is leaking off her, hull temperature is way down too. She’s dead, no power at all.â€
“Moving in closer, are we feeding this back to the Scipio?â€
“Yes boss, data links open, just a few seconds lag due to the distance.â€
“Great… make sure the audio’s off eh?â€
They all chuckled at that as the shuttle’s engines rumbled, driving them closer to the strange looking ship.
“Ho-lee-hell! Look at that!â€
Now only a few hundred kilometres away they could see what had seemingly killed the ship. Her port side, from bow to stern was blackened as if the metal had been heated and scored. A few radar masts and sensor dishes were warped and looked melted and an amber light lit up as the shuttle moved in.
“Jesus, look at those rads on the outer hull. It’s not lethal but I’m not going on that things surface for anything more than a few hours.â€
“Life pods are still in place, I can see the ports for them and the lifeboats too.â€
“Well at least she’s bloody human…â€
“Yeah but with radiation scarring like that on her hull?â€
“You read too much sci-fi; little green men or giant birds are not out there waiting to zap us.â€
“Sir! I can see her name! The… SLS… C. Sagan.â€
MHS Scipio (Merchant-class JumpShip)
“Found her! She is an Endeavour class science vessel. They only built four of them the Hawkins, Einstein, Averroes and the Sagan. They launched from the Titan shipyards twenty years before the Amaris Civil War on an exploration mission to the Deep Periphery.â€
“So what the hell is she doing out here? And what the hell happened to her? Get Shuttle 41 to dock if they can and investigate.â€
Shuttle 41
“Oh frak that…â€
“Shut up! She’s a League ship so she’ll have a universal docking port. We can run a power cable into the airlock and jump start it, running it off our own reactor and get in that way. How high are the rads?â€
“High enough, I’d say we could take four hours on-board, I’m not sure about her hull plating and what it absorbed but I suggest we all have rad counters on-board and try staying away from the port side.â€
“Roger that… and speaking of which… Roger… get suited up and get ready to go outside. She’s got a big ass docking collar on her neck so we’ll lock on there. Get that air lock open and then get your grumbling butt inside.â€
“Aye boss.â€
With the airlock active after a somewhat worrying twenty minutes of attempted docking the shuttles crew, bar one went into the dark hull of the C. Sagan
“If you say ‘lets split up…’ boss I’ll kill you.â€
“Yeah… Let’s stay together, don’t touch anything.â€
“Temperature is 104 below. No oxygen, she’s a void, someone purged the atmosphere.â€
“Where’s the crew?â€
The walkway from the docking collar was full of free floating objects, paper, books, a few data pads and somewhat alarmingly a boot.
“Liberate tu te me…â€
“Enough of that Kathrin. Just keep calm people, she’s a derelict, lets find her crew and see if we can get the logs and get the hell out of here.â€
“Hey boss…I just had a thought.â€
“Oh this ought to be good…â€
“Oh it is… two words. Salvage rights.â€
With the prospect of money and reward in mind the three Marians continued into the cold and silent hulk, fortunately everything was marked in English and they found their way to the medical bay in part of the huge grav deck. “Sir… I’ve found the crew.â€
Behind a sealed door was a room that was full of body bags, free floating in zero-g, over two hundred white bags in the sealed chamber.
“Check your rad dosage people…lets find the crew quarters and look for the Captain’s cabin.
“You got it boss…â€
MHS Scipio
Periphery
4th April 3106
“I want to commend you on a job well done Pilot, we’ll have to see about salvage rights but I’m sure that the Caesar will be happy with this find.†Captain Behar said as he looked at the reports. The survey mission was now quite forgotten and both DropShips were now slowly towing the C. Sagan towards the Scipio and the jump point. Partial power had been restored with portable generators, enough to kick-start the computers or at least those that still worked. It was enough to download the ships logs and those of the Captain and it was the log that now came onto the screen in Captain Behar’s quarters.
They’d found the Captain’s body in his quarters, a dissociated and frozen corpse that looked more like a mummy than something that had decomposed. Quite fortunate really.
“Captains Log May 29th 2758. The science boys love all of this, the GY/42 system is a young and active one, the accretion disk is slowly forming planets before our eyes and we’re able to watch a young star and its attendant planets form. Dr Killinger and her team are more than happy with the data we’re getting and the crew are performing well.
“Captains Log April 9th 2758. We’ve moved into the nadir jump point of the system and are able to look ‘down’ at the accretion disk. Probes sent in are recording hugely high temperatures, it’s really dangerous but at the same time beautiful. We’ll be jumping tomorrow with AR/3/B as our next system for exploration; a blue giant should give us a lot of data.â€
The next image showed the Captain, clearly under stress, the rooms emergency lighting was on casting a lurid red glow across his face.
“Captains log… frak it… we was hit this morning by what Mr Killinger called a ‘bow wave’ from the star as it formed. A mix of radiation and gaseous particles hitting us bloody fast. Damage was minimal but the radiation surge… over half the crew received a lethal dose in the few seconds we were hit, the rest of us… I’ve ordered the sick to be taken to the least contaminated parts of the ship, and we’re setting a course for Marik space. If we can get there we can get help.â€
There was one more log on the file, dated a week later. The man, Captain Tobias Garrant was gaunt, his hair missing in places; he was pale and looked exhausted.
“Well…this is it… we’ve come as far as we can… but with the crew dead or dying and with only eight of us able to still function… I know we can’t go on. I’ve ordered the computer to slowly bleed the air out. Not an instant decompression, we’ll just go to sleep. There’s not enough crew to run the reactor or any of the systems… so it’s time to end it. If anyone finds this log, know that we stayed true to our oaths, and discipline aboard ship never wavered. “
Caesar’s Quarters
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
6th April 3106
“Caesar this vessel is of great value to the Hegemony! We can refit her and reactivate her as a warship.†The Minister of Defence said, looking at the reports from the Scipio. It had taken a month to get the ship back to Marian space and she was now held under the strictest of security in the outer reaches of the system.
“With what are we going to refit her? My noble friend forgets that such a refit would cost a great deal of money and consume resources we just don’t have! We have no active shipyard and our one yard has been in mothballs for years, we’ve also lost a lot of technical expertise with many of the people who knew how to run the yard being either too old to work or drafted aboard our JumpShips and DropShips.â€
“We have been able to keep the Hanse operational with minimal support.†The Minister of Foreign Affairs piped up.
“Which has resulted in a barely operational WarShip that can move between Alphard and the jump point and little else†countered the Minister of Industry. “Not that the public or our neighbours know this but my Honourable friend in Defence will support me here, the Hanse needs an major overhaul, and it is not one we are capable of doing with the resources we have.†She said “and now with this vessel, the initial study shows we’d need to remove most of the hull plating on the port side as well as carry out extensive decontamination protocols on the interior, this would take at least a year, the computers would then need to be replaced as most of them were fried by the radiation surge in truth it’s a miracle they were able to jump her as far as they could towards our space. And then it’s a case of fitting weapons. Weapons we do not have and would have to import at great cost or attempt to steal which against an organised defence we do not have the resources.†She said feeling deflated by the issues ahead of the Marians. “This is initially estimated to take at least three years if not more and my Honourable friends, my Caesar, we simply do not have the resources or money for such a grand endeavour without utterly bankrupting our nation.â€
“So what do you suggest?â€
“Simple, sell her or scrap her, she’s a millstone round our necks and I think…â€
The discussion fell silent as Caesar Aleksandr Ward raised his hand and sat forwards the twenty-six year old was one of the youngest people in the room but the only one that had the authority to make a real decision. “I believe that the sale of this vessel would be of more value than retaining her, but who to? The Marik’s and those of that region? To the Lyrans? Or the Wolves?â€
“My Caesar, if I may, there is a group who might be willing to aid us and remove the vessel and in return assist us.†Sister Cassandra, the Caesar’s personal assistant and advisor, said quietly stepping forward she was always with the Caesar. She was older than the Caesar but her true age was hidden by the cloak around her shoulders and her carefully arranged hair.
“Speak.†Caesar Aleksandr commanded
“I have an… associate in Interstellar Explorations, whilst they are what they say they are, they have a broad reach and deep pockets as well as the resources and knowledge to reactivate the C. Sagan. She is an exploration vessel after all and they could use her for her intended role.â€
“And what would you ask of them in return?â€
“Assistance with our shipyards bringing them operational and up to a spec where we could use them in construction and maintenance of JumpShips and possibly future examples of the Galley-class. And assistance in acquiring the parts and resources we would require to repair the Hanse.â€
“And they would do this?†Caesar Aleksandr asked looking at the woman who smiled briefly when meeting his gaze.
“I would have to speak with them my Caesar, but I feel that our prize would be incentive enough and our asking price agreeable.†She said bowing for a moment stepping backwards out of the gaze of the others.
Caesar Aleksandr looked at his others advisers, he wasn’t as brutal as some of the leaders of the past but more even handed as his mother had been nevertheless those who failed or displeased him often didn’t live long. Even then there were few who would believe that Aleksandr would take his range out on Sister Cassandra she had a pull over him that few others did although few believed that there was anything physical between them. “Very well, speak with your associate but do not agree to anything unless you speak to me first.†The unsaid ‘or else…’ hung in the air before Aleksandr stood and his guards moved around him as he left the audience room.
Border skirmish
District of Gibraltar, Free Worlds League
11th April 3106
The Seventh, Eleventh and recently raised Twelfth Commonwealth Guards Regiment’s of the Lyran Commonwealth cross the Free Worlds League border onto the planets of Nockalunga and Bella I. Each of the commands had been reinforced with an entire battalion of recently constructed Thantos BattleMechs. This new variant of the heavy BattleMech was known as the TNS-4E and had been updated with two Clan tech nine-tube Advanced Tactical Missile Launchers which replaced the standard Thantos’ Medium Range Missile Launchers. Although these new BattleMechs appear to move slower than previous models the increased firepower and their massed numbers are enough to turn the tide against the defending District of Gibraltar forces. After eight days of heavy fighting on Nockalunga, Bella II, Trellisane and Alula Borealis the Free Worlds League units agree to surrender the systems to the Lyran Commonwealth. For a ransom of the best units in each command the Lyrans allow the Gibraltain forces to withdraw instead of putting them in prison camps.
Company Merger
Talitha, Star League Protectorate
21st April 3106
In a merger that surprises no-one Gilmour MilTech in the Star League Protectorate and LexaTech Industries in the Draconis Combine announce that they have formally merged their resources and finances to form a single company to serve both of their nations. While both nations approve of the merger they both demand that the companies continue to serve the contracts they have already agreed to. Gilmour/Lexa Tech announces that change will come in time and that they will continue with business as normal following the merger with one exception – the introduction of a new product being sold by both halves of the company the fifty-five ton Waneta Land-Air Mech. This new design is one of the largest LAM designs ever produced and makes extensive use of clan technology to provide it with impressive firepower this coupled with the mobility of a LAM promises to make it a welcome addition to its customer’s armies. Surprisingly the Waneta features none of the newly developed technology for Land-Air Mechs instead relying on the same components used since LAMs were first used. Analysis predict that this Waneta is a proof of concept design with Gilmour/Lexa Tech planning on producing a second variant that takes advantage of the unique technology available to the company.
Reinforcement
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
30th April 3106
As the fighting continues on along the Free Worlds League and Capellan Confederation border combat elements from other Free Worlds League states enter the fray finally supporting the District of Oriente. The primary contributor to Oriente’s reinforcement is the District of Regulus but their assistance comes at a price. While pushing to assist Oriente in throwing off the Capellan Confederation attackers the District of Regulus moves to secure administrative control over nine systems previously controlled by Oriente. The military units assigned to the defence of these worlds do not resist the civilian change instead the local commanders see it as an opportunity spreading out to Oriente’s borders to engage Capellan and Magistracy forces fighting on the borders.
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Nice update!! The MH will hopefully get a function shipyard? Awesome story!
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You'll be glad to hear that marauder648 has agreed to write a bit more about the C. Sagan's story - I for one look forward to it.
Now for a small update but perhaps one of the most important ones for a while... all good things must come to an end...
Border Conflict
Fanet, Contested Space
Periphery
7th May 3106
After being missing from the Inner Sphere for seven years the Undead Lance reappears fighting on the contested world of Fanet in the middle of the contested space between the Marian Hegemony, Magistracy of Canopus and Free Worlds League. The Undead Lance’s elite skills and advanced BattleMechs turns the tide for the Magistracy forces on the planet in a series of conflicts that sees their opposing forces fall back out of the system. The fall of Fanet puts a distinct Magistracy mark on the contested space between the three nations and is quickly followed by Tarol IV and Draco III which fall into the Magistracy’s open arms.
Black Dragon Stronghold
Saffel, Military District of Dieron
Draconis Combine
19th May 3106
Chu-i Dante Cage breathed heavily as his squad of Kishi Battle Armour troopers moved forward through the darkness another four squads of Kishi armoured troopers moved alongside Cage’s troopers as bullets filled the air around them as they charged towards the Black Dragon stronghold.
“Leave none of these terrorists alive†he ordered triggering his suit’s mechanical jump booster sending his suit over the perimeter wall. This operation was taking place despite the recent riots and the arrival of Star League Defence Force troops on the planet. Even from the top of his jump Dante was firing on the enemy below with his suit’s heavy machine gun. The suit’s came down to land in the darkened stronghold their machine guns continuing to blaze.
Neither the machine gun nor the jumping capabilities were the Kishi’s main strength however landing on the other side of the wall Dante’s squad began to run. Each suit charging at their enemy the Kishi design was capable of more than sixty-four kilometres per hour in open terrain but for now in close quarters they made the Kishi’s nearly impossible to hit by regular infantry troopers. Charging at enemies Dante’s people fired their machine guns and struck our with their heavy vibro battle claws tearing the defenders to pieces one person at a time.
In the space of forty minutes the twenty Kishi troopers killed all one hundred-and-twenty men and women inside the facility with not a single loss among their own numbers. Withdrawing quickly from the burning facility there was no evidence they had ever been there when the SLDF investigators arrived the next morning.
Following a brief investigation the Star League Defence Force’s High Command condems the Draconis Combine for their military operation during a time of planetary crisis on Saffel claiming that the Draconis Combine no longer served the best needs of the people of Saffel and instead the world’s future depended on support and defence from the Star League Defence Force bringing the world into the Star League Protectorate. Commanding-General Victor Focht orders all DCMS forces to withdraw from the planet landing an entire battalion of elite battle armour equipped SAS troops on planet as insurance against Draconis Combine Special Forces. The “fall†of Saffel further isolate’s Dieron and further strains the “Small World sailent†one of the Draconis Combine’s few inroads into Davion held terrioty.
Throne Room, Davion Palace
Avalon City, Albion
Crucis March, Federated Suns
24th May 3106
The trip back from the Capellan front had been an uneventful one Prince Burton Davion had expected to return to his unit but instead he had been called to the Throne Room of the Avalon Palace along with a request to attend in full dress uniform. Of all the things Burton hated being called up in full dress uniform by his father but he did what he was asked. Entering the throne room Burton realized that this was not a normal call to the throne room inside there was a full crowd of people from nobles to citizens from the street nearly one thousand people were arrayed in the room. Around the vast room each wall was lined by troopers dressed in Infiltrator III Battle Armour painted in the dress colours of the First Davion Guards RCT. On the throne were his father First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion sat waiting while beside him Burton’s mother Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion sat one an identical throne and then off further to the right stood Burton’s wife Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion, with baby Christopher in her arms, and their children Luther and Leah stood waiting. Walking through the ranks of people Burton noted that the heads of the Draconis, Crucis and Capellan March were all present as were the heads of the DMI, MIIO, Quartermasters and Navy. As he stepped past them Burton received several nods and saw many come to attention showing their respect to him.
“Prince Burton Davion stand to attention!†Victor Steiner-Davion called out standing up from his throne “for the last fifty-four years it has been my great honour to lead the Federated Suns as First among its Princes of our great nation.†He said loud enough so his voice carried throughout the chamber. “I have lived and led this nation, I have known its sorrow and its pain, I have found love and experienced the greatest joy†he said as Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion rose to stand beside him showing the union the could held was still as strong as ever. “I have seen my family grow I have celebrated their triumphs and I have berated them for the failings.†He said Burton felt warmth under his cheeks knowing fine that he had been the source of at least some of those failings his artificial left arm a testimony to that. “However today†Victor said his voice as level as always “today is a special day today it is the scene of my greatest accomplishment†he said looking down at his eldest son. “Unlike many of my predecessors today I Victor Ian Steiner-Davion have the greatest honour to pass leadership to Prince Burton Jackson Davion.†He announced shocking the assembled guests and his son “I have no desire to abandon my service to this nation but it is the right time for a change.†He explained Burton raising his eyes to look at his father’s approving eye. “Prince Luther Davion step forward†Victor called out the eleven year old prince stepped forward his brown hair was swept to the side he wore a black suite jacket, a white shirt, a green tie with red clip and white chinos in his hands he held the most recent addition of the Unfinished Book: The Remembrance. Seeing the book the Prince flashed his father a rye smile as he realized that his father knew that Burton followed the same beliefs and teachings as Victor’s own father Hanse Davion. “Place your right hand on the Unfinished Book, raise your left hand and repeat after me.†Victor said issuing his last command as First Prince of the Federated Suns.
Nearly ten minutes later they finished swearing in Burton Davion as the new First Prince of the Federated Suns “you’ve got the keys son treat her well†Victor said stepping to the side Danai Centrella-Davion also stepped to the side allowing Burton, Sterling and their three children access to the thrones.
“All hail First Prince Burton Davion!†A non-commissioned officer off to the side of the thrones shouted out and the room responded with a “HAIL!â€
“All hail Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion!†he then shouted and another “HAIL!†came in response followed by separate “HAIL!†calls for Luther, Leah and Christopher. Surprisingly three month old Christopher remained calm and didn’t cry out at the cheering crowds.
Finally the non-commissioned officer shouted out one more time “Long Live First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion!†He called out and to both Victor and Danai’s surprise the crowd erupted louder than they had so far despite his stepping aside from the position Victor would still be referred to as the First Prince he had served the Federated Suns too long to be forgotten so quickly. Victor knew it would add extra pressure on Burton if he was in the limelight too much, and already he had made plans to enjoy his retirement, he’d help his son if he needed it but the plan was for him and Danai to slip into the background quietly and perhaps make up for some of the years they had lost due to the various wars and travel they had to attend to.
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Well, no more for fighting for Burton in the near future. He's got some important OJT coming from his father.
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Meeting of Khans
Nova Cat Compound, Farstar
Periphery
9th June 3106
The Clan Snow Raven WarShip Snow Raven had arrived in the Farstar system four standard days before and the new Khan of Clan Snow Raven Vir Sukhanov had requested safcon to the planet’s surface. Now the saKhan of Clan Nova Cat Katrine Devalis stood waiting for the Snow Raven leader in the compound that her clan had constructed since taking ownership of Farstar.
The doors to the conference room opened and in entered Khan Vir Sukhanov of Clan Snow Raven he was tall for someone born from the aerospace bloodline looking at him Katrine Devalis believed he could match a MechWarrior for physical strength, meaning he was a threat to her. “Welcome to Farstar and the territory of Clan Nova Cat.†She said welcoming him ignoring her fears for a moment.
“Thank you saKhan Katrine Devalis?†He asked hesitantly for a moment.
“Aff, how can I be of service to Clan Snow Raven?†She asked
“Perhaps you could explain the Nova Cats motive in the periphery?†He asked looking at the saKhan “you attacked and killed a Snow Raven Khan and then have claimed a further four systems in the Periphery near this system.â€
“Your Khan was a dishonourable one, the space around us is a chaotic place we have brought peace to it.†Katrine Devalis said simply looking back at the Snow Raven leader.
“Our Khan made a mistake he was not capable of navigating the political unrest in our Clan and†Sukhanov admitted “tried to appease the civilians of the Raven Alliance by keeping our military under control but he also had to appease our warrior castes leading to the agreement with the Draconis…â€
“Do I look like I care?†Katrine Devalis demanded “a Raven’s dishonour is the last thing I care for.â€
“Of course†Khan Vir Sukhanov said “I wish to ensure Clan Snow Raven’s return to honour and to do this I need to make sure there is nothing further between our Clans.â€
“There is only the trouble that continues between all of the Clans do not screw with my Clan and I will not see the destruction of yours.†Katrine Devalis said stepping away walking around the room now trusting that Khan Vir Sukhanov would not strike her turned back.
“I understand†Vir Sukhanov said bowing respectfully for a moment remaining standing where he was Katrine Devalis saw the opportunity and made her move.
“However the other Clans may not see it the same way.†She said turning back towards the Snow Raven Khan “your Clan has colluded with an Inner Sphere state. Helped train them and worked with the worlds you occupy.â€
“Pah! The Rasalhague Dominion is a combination of a Clan and Inner Sphere population. The Sea Foxes trade openly with the Inner Sphere states and your own Nova Cats have traded and worked with the Federated Suns. The current Clans do not care who works with who as long as victory is achieved you are living in the past Khan Devalis.†The Nova Cat in front of her actually smiled “you find this amusing Quineg?â€
“Neg, however, I believe the other Clans would find it amusing†she said the Snow Raven Khan was about to speak but Katrine Devalis raised her hand to stop him “think about it Khan Sukhanov. You Clan lost Sterling McKenna to a betrayal, you lost Jacob Seigel to my guns and you have failed to win a victory on the battlefield.†She said taunting the Snow Raven leader knowing she was gaining ground with him. “But there is a way… a way you could prove to your Clan and to the others that the Ravens have the strength and honour that matches any of them.†She said continuing to entice him with her words “the Nova Cats believe in visions. Before I came to this part of space I experienced a vision of a cat and a bird… working in unison against their enemies.†She said knowing it wasn’t completely the truth but it was enough for the Raven leader she could see she was getting to him. “Together we will strike down the Draconis Combine and show everyone that our Clans can maintain their position with all of the other Clans.†She said receiving a nod of agreement from the Raven Khan she hoped that with the Nova Cats and Snow Ravens together she could fulfill the last part of her vision or die trying.
Border Conflict
Son Hou Theatre, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
19th June 3106
Across the Inner Sphere units from various realms and factions fought in the Star League Games on Defiance for competition and glory however elsewhere the fighting continued for the petty conflicts of war. Units from the Free Worlds League’s District of Trafalgar raided the worlds of Sierra, Cerillos and Galisteo attempting to bring these worlds under the control of the united Free Worlds League. Each of these raids are unsuccessful in winning the Free Worlds League territory but they gain each of the units experience and salvage from the Lyran Commonwealth and mercenary defenders.
Elsewhere in the Free Worlds League the District of Regulus threatens the foundation of the united Free Worlds League by forcefully landing troops on the District of Oriente worlds of Lungdo, Abadan, Avellaneda, Hamilton, Holt and Sorunda. On the world of Hamilton fighting erupts between the Seventh Oriente Fusiliers and the Third Cameron-Jones House Guard Regiments as the Regulus unit attempts to land on Hamilton. After nearly two weeks of fighting on Hamilton the Third Marik Guards Regiment of the District of Marik arrives commanded by Captain-General Joseph Marik himself intent on ending the fighting on Hamilton. The Captain-General calls for both sides to end the conflict before it tears the Free Worlds League to pieces.
By the end of 3106 Joseph Marik negotiates Hamilton’s position into the District of Regulus in exchange for free passage of combat units out of the worlds taken by the Regulus troops and the transfer of weapons and equipment from Regulus factories to District of Oriente combat units fighting the Capellan Confederation. Neither Oriente or Regulus are happy with the compromise negotiated by the Captain-General but they both agree that there will be no further territory traded between the two nations. The territory exchanged between the two nations turns the District of Regulus into one of the largest in the Free Worlds League with internal borders stretching from the border with the Star League Protectorate to the border of the Magistracy of Canopus and Capellan Confederation with Regulus secure behind layers of defences and an expanding Regulan military many citizens of the Free Worlds League begin to question if it is time for Regulus to lead their nation.
With the troops freed up from the worlds garrisoned by those worlds now controlled by Regulus the District of Oriente send additional troops to the world of Sarna pushing the last of the Capellan Confederation forces off of the Commonality capital. With Sarna falling to Oriente troops the worlds of Zaurak, Menkib and Matsu, lacking support or command from Sarna, fall to the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns following a series of opportunistic strikes by units of the AFFS and mercenary forces.
Twelfth Martial Olympiad, Star League Grounds
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
24th June 3106
Unlike the Star League Games on Solaris the Martial Olympiad competition was not dominated by one faction throughout the latter half of June units from across the Inner Sphere and periphery fight in a series of wargames that test their individual and unit skills. As the month slowly moves towards a close the Free Worlds League’s First Free Worlds Guards pulls ahead of the other units on the ground while the Nova Cat’s Silent Verdict, a Liger-class Strike Cruiser, excels in space. Both sides continue to maintain their advantage over the other commands on Defiance until the end of the competition with Colonel Michael Franklin accepting the ground trophy while Star Commodore Zach Leroux accepts the reward for the naval victory.
Criminal Investigation
Devil’s Rock, Star League Protectorate
27th June 3106
Several members of the Star League Defence Force Intelligence Department stood around a table watching the tri-vid footage. “That’s the son-of-a-bitch†Carlton Stuart said looking at the tri-vid “Bobby Winchester how the hell did he get here?â€
“He’s slipped through the back channels paying for transport on various civilian and mercenary transports†Stephen Grant said looking back at his colleague. “We haven’t seen the Huron Warrior yet but if he’s here then I bet the Mech is here too.â€
“And they are both protected by the gangs†Stuart said his native Northwind accent showing through in his anger. “Even with the considerable SLDF assets on this planet we will struggle to extract him.â€
“All we can do is issue the warrants†Grant said “as you say we have significant military and police units on this world if the opportunity strikes we should capture or strike him down.†He proposed “if we can bring Winchester to justice the Combine might feel better towards the Star League’s position on Saffel.â€
“Our people know what they need to do either we will capture or destroy him.†Carlton Stewart said replaying the image of the murderer walking casually through the crowd of gang members in the settlement of Devil’s Chance an image they had captured by chance. In the years since the SLDF had gained possession of Devil’s Rock they had monitored the various criminal houses that controlled the majority of the planet’s business and work stopping the worse of their activities and they had tried to bring a better standard of living to all of the population of Devil’s Rock.
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Throne Room
Robinson, Draconis March
Federated Suns
8th July 3106
“Cousin, I did not expect for you to visit Robinson†Jerome Sandoval, the Duke of the Draconis March, said stepping down from the throne towards his older cousin. Mordecai Sandova was a man from another generation who believed that the Draconis March should be leading the Federated Suns in a continuous war of aggression against the ‘hated snake enemy’ in the Draconis Combine. “Nor did I expect you to arrive with a regiment armed for battle?â€
“Patriots wishing to serve the Draconis March and Robinson†Mordecai said “the Robinson Militia has been disbanded for many years it is time that it was reborn.â€
“The Militia does not have the best history†Jerome began...
“You have failed this March†Mordecai said interrupting him “the Militia has stood in Robinson’s defence since the foundation of this March. They deserve their place in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.â€
“I would be failing this March more to accept your fanatics as trained soldiers.â€
“Every one of them has served our nation.â€
“And they are currently?â€
“Free agents willing to serve their nation once more…â€
“Free agents willing to serve you†Jerome said finally “what are you really looking for cousin?â€
“To serve my March and my nation in the best capacity I can.†Mordecai said bowing slightly before turning slowly moving towards the exit of the throne room leaving Jerome to think about what his cousin had said and the potential threat from his forces. He knew Mordecai had never been happy that Elaine Sandoval had chosen Jerome over his cousin to take over leadership of the March he just hoped that Mordecai did nothing rash about his displeasure.
Council of the Clans, Council Chambers
Andrey, Tukayyid
Independent Clan Terrirory
15th July 3106
The assembled Khans of the Clans sat at the tables in a circle each table separated by a short gap to show the individuality of each of the Clans included in the circle was a table for the Loremaster of the Clans showing Tukayyid’s individual status in the Clans. Not included in the circle was a representative of Solaris VII despite the Gaming World’s new status in Clan society. Behind the Khans stood an entire star of armoured Elementals of the Ebon Guard, silent guardians of the proceedings, while Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward stood at his own table. “Khans of the Clans welcome to Tukayyid†he began depite being originally born to Clan Wolf Thomas Ward was now purely loyal and proud to Tukayyid. “You have assembled today to decide how Tukayyid will serve Clan society. It is my belief that Tukayyid has outgrown its position as a neutral meeting and trading point.†He said seeing the Khans did not look completely impressed with his words “we have construction, trade, science and meeting places here Tukayyid has more influence on our society than many of you give it credit.â€
“It is not time for another Clan to be born around Tukayyid†Jana Pryde of the Jade Falcons said “Tukayyid’s influence has grown to support our Clans nothing more if the Loremaster cannot see that then he needs to be replaced†she threatened Jana Pryde making it clear of the Jade Falcon position they needed Tukayyid to remain where it was supporting her depleted military.
“Aff I agree Tukayyid knows its place†Hell’s Horses leader Teresia Cooper bellowed the large Elemental warrior who glanced at Jana Pryde and nodded the Hoses and Falcons clearly continuing to be on the same page.
“I do not suggest Tukayyid becomes its own power.†Loremaster Thomas Ward said glancing at the other members “instead I wish to suggest we return to a concept suggested when the Clans were founded.†He said inwardly very pleased that the assembled Khans looked surprised and perhaps a little confused at his suggestion. “When the Clans were founded by Nicholas Kerensky the first few months of the new Clans were supported by the Free Guilds based on Strana Mechty. These Guilds were comprised of members from every one of the Clans and were under the direction of the ilKhan to support each of the Clans without bias or conflict.†Thomas Ward said he neglected to say that Nicholas Kerensky squashed the Free Guilds just weeks after the Pentagon Worlds campaign when it became clear that the Clans were not interested in having independents operating in the Homeworlds. “These modern Free Guilds would control Tukayyid’s trade with the Clans and with the Inner Sphere. They would make weapons, BattleMechs, Ships and Battle Armour available to the other Clans and arrange the trials for your forces, they will coordinate efforts of the scientific and design departments on Tukayyid and better our Clan’s position throughout the Inner Sphere. And will also be up to the Free Guilds to develop our infrastructure on Solaris VII.â€
“I believe it is the Loremaster’s decision to what happens on Tukayyid, as long as it does not interfere with the Clans and does not attempt to gain a position about its current station Clan Nova Cat will not oppose it.†Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats said.
“These Free Guilds will be restricted to Tukayyid and trade with the Inner Sphere will be controlled quiaff?†Khan Evangeline Clarke of the Sea Fox Clan asked
“The only Free Guilds personnel who leave Tukayyid will be those who are travelling to collect resources required for production or experiments on Tukayyid or those going to Solaris VII to provide assistance with that world’s development. The only trade they will do is with the traders that we allow access to our Hall on Solaris VII and the traders that are allowed into the Tukayyid system.â€
“That is agreeable†Clarke replied realizing that her own Clan’s trade links would be protected from competition.
“Because Clan Sea Fox does such a good job at trading Clan technology to everyone…†Ghost Bear Khan Ragnar Magnesson said seeing Evangeline Clarke ready to hit him with a rebuttle he quickly raised his hand “not just your efforts have been noticed.†He said steeling a glance first at the Nova Cat Khan and then at the Fire Mandrill Khan both Clans had traded technology to the Inner Sphere in the past. While Natasha Faraday of the Fire Mandrills looked uncomfortable at being singled out her Clan had traded technology to survive not because they wanted to by comparison Khan Canin Rosse met Ragnar Magnesson’s steely gaze and smirked as if challenging the freeborn to say more.
“And if there is a future ilKhan what will the Free Guilds do?†Khan of Clan Wolf Amina Kerensky said more curious about the Free Guilds than against them.
“They will like the Loremaster of the Clans and Tukayyid submit to the ilKhan.†Thomas Ward said “as should all of the Clans.â€
“Then I am not against this concept.†She said around the room the Khans voted with none of them voting against Ward’s proposal which was just as well since many of his plans behind the Free Guilds were already in place.
“Excellent news the Free Guilds will not disappoint you†he said proudly pressing a button on the console in front of him activating the screens built into their tables. “If you could turn your attention to the screens as part of our initiative to improve all of the Clans and ensure secure travel between Tukayyid and Solaris VII I would like to present to you with the Arbitration-class Battleship.†He said on the screens in front of them a massive WarShip slipped from the shipyard above Tukayyid it had a split forward section with what appeared to be a large weapons array at the front of the vessel the hull then opened out to a large slopped hull with four heat radiating fins on the forward hull. A central communication and sensor tower dominated the middle of the hull before the rear was comprised of a large box-like engine section with four vertical fins leaving the hull two from the top and two from the rear. The ship looked unlike most other WarShips ever fielded but the surprise was not the biggest surprise other than Loremaster Thomas Ward no-one else had been made aware of the Arbitration’s construction. Anger flew around the room as the Loremaster was accused of trying to build himself an armed force that could forge the newly agreed upon Free Guilds into their own Clan but Thomas Ward was clear the Arbitration would be the first and only vessel to serve Tukayyid and the Free Guilds escorting the trade ships between Tukayyid and Solaris all other vessels would be open to be trialled for by the Clans.
Trial of Mysticism
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
21st July 3106
Despite both the Khan and saKhan being out of the Nova Cat’s Den Oathmaster Klick Lenardon had ordered the first Trial of Mysticism to begin. In front of him the twenty sixteen year old warriors who had been trained since they were born to serve as Mystics in Clan Nova Cat stood in front of him ready for the Trial to begin. “You have been prepared for this since your birth you have been tested as far as we can psychologically now you must past a physical test. Your duty is clear you each must follow your beliefs search your souls and your body’s limits you will return to us in no less than thirty days after that time you will know who you are.†He said briefing them they would have to survive for thirty days without supplies and without outside assistance and without any weapons this test was designed to test their ability to adapt to the wilderness like a young nova cat each hoping to experience a vision.
Thirty days later only five of the students returned none of them had experienced a vision but they had survived and would become Mystics of the Nova Cat Clan with each beginning training to become MechWarriors and members of the Clan’s military wing. Fourteen of the other mystic candidates were never heard from again however the fifteenth finally did return ninety-six days after the beginning of his Trial of Mysticism. Dehydrated and malnourished Seth was babbling about a vision he had experienced while being injured during his Trial he talked about being cared for by a nova cat which had one of its front paws maimed he said the vision told him that an important part of the Nova Cat Clan would be lost and that it would never be recovered but that the Nova Cats would grow from the loss.
Lyran Commonwealth Guard Base
Gallery, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
28th July 3106
Lieutenant Aksel Youngblood stood on the tarmac looking at the Leopard-class DropShip which wore the Kell Hound and Crescent Hawk insignias. Yesterday Colonel Jeremy Kell had announced that the remaining Kell Hound Battalion would no longer be treated like a house unit of the Lyran Commonwealth and would seek employment beyond House Steiner. Jeremy Kell had then stated that the Crescent Hawks would be reformed and sent out on its own contracts in an effort to bring further like-minded warriors into the Kell Hound fold. Now four BattleMechs including Aksel’s Shadow Hawk X4M Land Air-Mech together with a second LAM and four ground bound BattleMechs they would reform the Crescent Hawks.
“Is this really a good idea?†Aksel asked glancing at his father Jeremiah Youngblood II. Jeremiah like thousands others had evacuated Arc Royal and joined the Mountain Wolf Clan on Gallery. He’d been the one who had suggested Aksel take the position as leader of the new Crescent Hawks.
“Nervous?â€
“No†Aksel said looking back at the DropShip “yes†he admitted “why is the Colonel sending us away now?â€
“Because the Crescent Hawks have always been good at finding out information and working behind the scenes†Jeremiah explained. “The Kell Hounds are heading into unknown territory it makes sense that the Crescent Hawks should see what is available out there and perhaps work out what opportunities they should avoid.â€
“Lucky us†he said “well at least the Hawks rise once more.â€
“Yes they do and this is for you†Jeremiah reached into his pocket and handed it to Aksel who turned it over in his hands. “Congratulations Captain Youngblood†he said smiling proudly the Crescent Hawks were now ready to go to work.
Three things about this update
1) Arbitration is a WarShip designed by marauder648, Vition2 and JA Baker (there will actually be two WarShips coming out of that little project)
2) The Free Guilds were originally a canon idea but they were written off as a mistake by Anastasius Focht. Blacknova had an approach with them in his Kapteyn Universe and now I'm using them.
3) Addition at the end is a homage to the recent Spotlight series exploring a potential gap created by my universe taking a different direction than canon.
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The first part of this update comes from James Tanaga I hope you enjoy it and the rest of the update.
Fire Mandrill Compound, Kelly Springs
Tukayyid
Clan Territory, Inner Sphere
2nd August, 3106
Natasha Faraday sat in her office, idly studying a recent Trial of Possession displayed on the holo-monitor, as she kept her subordinate waiting. The Trial of Possession in question was a small boon to her Clan, for it netted the Fire Mandrills production schematics for the Black Lanner OmniMech from the Falcons. In any other situation, she supposed she would have been impressed. Instead, she was furious.
On the holo-monitor, she watched as a point of her Clan’s new Cheyenne aerospace fighters unload two points of ProtoMechs onto the battlefield and then staying on station until a Fortress-class DropShip arrived. She shook her head; annoyed at seeing a supernova containing new updated versions of the Kanga and Svantovit Infantry Fighting Vehicle unload from the DropShip.
The Trial of Possession was only the first of the Trials of Possession by the Mandrills here at Tukayyid and all undertaken by the same subordinate she kept waiting outside. Star Captain Mary Fire Mandrill, a seventeen-year old Elemental-phenotype Warrior, could go far, very far, Natasha had decided, but only if she learnt patience.
The other Clans barely tolerated her Mandrills, the young Khan knew, and she wisely had ordered her Mandrills to keep within their small enclave on the planet, keen to keep her Clan from being entangled in the affairs of other Clans and the Ebon Guard. And the other Clans, excepting the Sea Foxes, accepted it. Only by a mere technicality was her Clan even considered Clan, reviled even by certain Clans more than the exiled Mountain Wolves.
It was not yet time for her Mandrills to come out of their dens, she had decided. Yet now they had no other option, for she knew the other Clans would not take the Mandrills recent incursions, even if they were unauthorized, lying down. The comm unit buzzed.
“Khan, Star Captain Mary-,†Natasha cut Jennifer, the female Laborer that served as her secretary off.
“I know,†the young Khan bit out. “Send her in.â€
“Aff, Khan,†was the other Clan woman’s simple answer before closing the link. Soon the large, burly Warrior came in.
“Star Captain Mary Fire Mandrill reporting as ordered, Khan,†the younger Warrior growled out as she stood at attention, her hands going behind her back, feet apart. Natasha nodded approving.
Standing up, she herself soon copied the younger Warrior, even while she looked up into the mismatching green and grey eyes. A genetic oddity only seen in the woman’s and certain other sibko’s, she knew.
“You know why I have brought you here, quiaff,†she asked the younger Warrior, causing her to snort and roll her eyes.
“Aff,†the other woman simply replied.
“Humor me then, Star Captain. Were my orders too generalized? Or perhaps you did not understand them,†she asked the taller woman as she walked around her. “Or perhaps you were even goaded and too enraged to realize them?â€
“Neg†she answered simply refusing to fabricate an answer, that alone was something to respect of the warrior Natasha decided. “I saw opportunities for our Clan, Khan, and exploited them,†Mary answered. “And by doing so, I have made our Clan stronger†she said proudly a trait that was unbecoming someone so young.
Natasha sighed. Ever since she refused to become the leader of the Rim Collection, she had lost much of her Warriors respect they believed that she should have seized control and turned the Rim Collection into the Fire Mandrill Occupation Zone making everyone take her Clan seriously. Mary was but one of those Warriors, she judged privately to herself. “Did it not occur to you our Clan is not yet in position to do just that, Star Captain?â€
“If we had a stronger Khan, then perhaps I might have, Khan,†was her cold reply, confirming Natasha’s prior thoughts, causing Natasha to turn her back to the younger, taller Warrior despite her open hostility Natasha knew that Mary was too proud, too honourable, to strike her back.
“Then know this. Khan Teresia Cooper of the Horses has declared a Trial of Possession for production schematics of our new Vajra and Vijaya variants this morning,†she informed Mary.
“My supernova and I will meet them on the battlefield then, Khan,†was her answer.
“Neg,†she rebutted her subordinate.
“Neg?!â€
“Neg,†Natasha confirmed her back still to the younger Mandrill Warrior intentionally trying to provoke Mary and keep any defences she had down the angrier she was the more it played into Natasha’s hands. “I and the Horse Khan agreed one of our Clan’s secondline Elemental points will face a point belonging to her own Keshik. Publically, I am scorning her and her Clan.â€
“And privately you let her Clan have the advantage!†Natasha heard Mary rage.
“Perhaps,†the Mandrill Khan conceded. “Yet the point in question is entirely solahma. They do have the experience. Perhaps they will be victorious. Perhaps not.†She conceded it was something she had accepted as soon as the decision was made. “But in the end, our little scrap with the Horses will likely be forgotten by our Clans.â€
“If you think I will take this lying down-“ the other Warrior spat out.
“You will, Star Captain.†Natasha said turning on Mary the Khan’s own gaze full of the authority of not a mear warrior speaking to another but a Khan talking to a subordinate. “For if you do not, I will declare your entire supernova dezgra and I will see you caste out to join the Dark or dead on the battlefield.†She gave her ultimatum to the younger Warrior. Moments passed as the younger, much taller Fire Mandrill Warrior sieved.
“You have done well, Star Captain. Soon, our Clan will begin producing Black Lanners, an old but worthy design, and license the Zephyros to Rim Motors as soon as we get back home,†she announced a moment later. “You are dismissed. Go out and celebrate your victories here on Tukayyid. We leave for home in two local days time.â€
The other Warrior did not entertain Khan Faraday with an answer, merely cursing under her breath loudly, before leaving the room. Natasha sighed. She hated the fact she was forced to threaten her subordinate, but to safeguard her Clan’s very vulnerable position here on Tukayyid, she would follow through with her threat to her fellow Warrior. And then, she promised herself, she would commit seppuku.
“Khan,†Jennifer’s voice broke her from her thoughts. Turning to face the door, she saw the small, older Laborer holding the door for Khan Clarke of the Sea Foxes. Before long, both Khans were in talks on the Mandrills potentially providing the Sea Foxes with their newly won OmniMech. The Foxes in turn were ready to trade equally with the Mandrills knowing they would each get a fair deal.
Clan Council, Snow Raven Hall
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
7th August 3106
Communicating with the Clan Council via Hyper Pulse Generator from the WarShip Snow Raven Khan Vir Sukhanov appeared as a large hologram in front of the assembled bloodnamed warriors of the Snow Raven Clan. This was not how he would have preferred to communicate with the senior members of his Clan but it was necessary. “My fellow Ravens the other Clans see us as a joke living in the periphery at the beck-and-call of the Outworlds Alliance.†He said deciding to go with the shock factor to gain support from the other Ravens. “One of our Khans left to join the Inner Sphere abandoning her responsibilities†he said putting Sterling McKenna’s still strong supporters in their place “while another decided that working with the Draconis Combine was better than acting like a true Clan.†He said before anyone stood up for Jacob Siegel. “Clan Nova Cat gives us an opportunityâ€
“An opportunity to be taken as fools†Galaxy Commander Duncan Cooper said interrupting his Khan. Duncan was ten years older than Vir and had narrowly been beaten by the younger man to the position of Khan. When Vir had passed over him for the position of saKhan it had further angered the Elemental. “Since your little trip to the Nova Cat’s new holdings and then onto Tukayyid Clan Nova Cat have taken a further three periphery system†he said as a map to the side of Vir’s hologram highlighted Opia, Banton IV and Ghazen all as Nova Cat systems “we are helping them create another realm. Our arracks on the Draconis Combine will only serve to help them gain more territory while turning the Draconis Combine against us. A nation that could overwhelm us with the number of units they can bring against us.â€
“Are you scared Duncan Cooper? We are members of Clan Snow Raven the only thing we should be scared of is being grounded.†Vir taunted the older man “I know the Nova Cats want to use us as a distraction and as a source of additional firepower to use against the Draconis Combine. I also know that we have dispatched units to these systems.†He said highlighting four other systems in the Periphery. “This will benefit us as well as benefit Clan Nova Cat. We will gain fighting experience which many of our units currently lack, we will gain resources which we can put towards new WarShip construction which given what I have seen of the new Arbitration-class is something we need to look at and more importantly we will regain some of the respect we have lost to the other Clans. After all of these years in the sidelines it is time for the Raven to soar.â€
The Raven Khan’s impassioned speech won enough support for the Ravens to authorize the attacks on the Combine by the end of the month the Ravens had taken six Periphery planets and struck at the Draconis Combine world of Pentrine X while the Nova Cats had finished capturing the periphery planets and struck at Nowhere and Gravenhage capturing both and destroying elements of the DCMS’ Seventh Ghost Regiment which along with several other Ghost Regiments had recently been sent to the region following intelligence suggesting the Ravens were up to something.
Naval Launch, McKenna Shipyards
Kathil, Kathil PDZ
Capellan Marc, Federated Suns
13th August 3106
At the McKenna Shipyards above Kathil the former Clan Mountain Wolf vessel Killing Blow is relaunched as the FSS Killing Blow. After a period of refit the vessel has been modified from the Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette that the ship was into what the Kathil Shipworks call the Vincent Davion-class Destroyer and it is intended on being a competitor to the established Davion III-class Destroyer built by Galax. Launching alongside the Killing Blow is the FSS Vincent Davion a newly built vessel of the same class within hours both vessels are sold to the Federated Suns Admiralty with the Federated Suns Quartermasters confirming they are interested in further WarShips. The FSS Killing Blow is sent to be tested joining Fifth Battle Group in the Star League Protectorate.
Arrest Warrant
Prochnow Settlement, Devil’s Rock
Star League Protectorate
22nd August 3106
Standing behind the law enforcement officers encased in a Nighthawk XXI Power Armour suit all Captain Morgan Christifori could think about was this was not why he joined the SLDF alongside him another member of his company stood in his Nighthawk suit waiting for the answer from the gang members.
“We are here to issue an arrest warrant for Bobby Winchester who is wanted for crimes committed on Saffel including the murder of the Duke of Saffel and the theft of the Duke’s BattleMech.†One officer said to the doorman “we don’t want any trouble†he said as the man looked up at the two Nighthawk suits standing silently behind them. On most planets the presence of two Battle Armour suits would be considered overkill but not on Devil’s Rock this entire region was dominated by people loyal to the Pronchnow family with Devil’s Rock a distant second and the SLDF as close to an enemy as there could be this was hostile territory despite the way the media tried to spin it.
“He isn’t availableâ€
“Then make him available†the enforcement officer demanded Morgan glanced at his sensors and saw there was at least four movement markers behind the doors. For the umpteenth time he checked his rifle. He’d originally wanted to take a BattleMech lance down the street but command on Devil’s Rock had deemed that too provocative.
“I mean he isn’t here left three days ago is heading for Marik space†he said looking between the two enforcement officers and the Battle Armour.
“Can we enter to check for ourselves?â€
“Only with a warrant†the man said laughing as he slammed the door closed. The enforcement officer was about to tap the door again but Morgan leaned forward and pulled the man back.
“Dark One to Barkeep†he said cursing whoever chose the call-signs for this mission according to Alex they were ‘completely random.’
“Go ahead Timbiqui†Alex replied Morgan could see the smile on her face.
“Dark One and Two are pulling out with Bottle-caps. Repeat we are pulling out keep eyes on area.â€
“Understood unforeseen issues?†She asked
“Yeah something about a warrantâ€
“Cheers to that Timbiqui Barkeep out†she replied Alex and the rest of their unit were on the perimeter running the operation from a distance. Morgan had wanted his command closer but the Governor of Devil’s Rock had vetoed the move.
“We’re going now, this job just became more difficult,†he said to the enforcement officers “this isn’t something we can win today. Get in and go we’ll keep up.†He commanded “Two we’re running out†he said to the other trooper their Jump Jets would let them cover the transport from different angles if needed but they both knew that their Mech Support was five-ten minutes out at best. They moved out of the area quickly and were not attacked back at their SLDF Encampment Morgan’s greatest fear had been confirmed since the SLDF could not for one hundred percent confirm that Bobby Winchester was in the compound and that the stolen Huron Warrior was present Mech Support was not authorized nor was a breach of the Prochnow estate until they were sure. In effect their “Active†mission had been downgraded to “Observation.†He was going to be stuck on Devil’s Rock a bit longer.
There was a second part to James Tanaga's update which was awesome but I've decided to hold onto it as it will be the first pebbles of what could become an land slide... ;)
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Command Base, Eleventh Aucturan Guards Command
Rasalgethi, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
1st September 3106
“Leutenant Sortek reporting as ordered†Jason Sortek said standing to attention in front of General Sebastian Fuch the commander of the Eleventh Aucturan Guards RCT.
“You did well yesterday Leutenant†the General said after a moment “your lance downed two OmniMech and three armoured vehicles as well as keeping that assault star at range. And I believe you personally eliminated a point of enemy ProtoMechs?â€
“Yes sir they attempted to flank my lance I engaged the ProtoMechs while my lance maintained their fire on the rest of the Clan forces it was simply the right distribution of the weapons we had. We were told to keep the Hell’s Horses at bay and we did sir.†Sortek answered
“Ja†Fuch agreed the Horses surprise attack on Rasagethi had come following their conquest of Orkney and Toumans at least a cluster of Horses had probed the Aucturan Guards for four days before withdrawing. “You have done well over the last several weeks.â€
“Thank you General†Jason Sortek said accepting the praise
“As a result of your little performance here I’ve decided to promote you to Hauptmann†Fuch said standing up from behind his desk slicking his greying hair back as he saw the pride break out on Sortek’s younger face.
“Thanks you sir†Sortek said shaking the older man’s hand his brown eyes blazing with pride showing the General how much he appreciated the decision.
“You’ve earned it†Fuch said “I’m moving you up to Hamilton’s company.â€
“Caroline was a good company commander†Sortek said “will my lance be joining Ham… my company?†He asked beginning to think of his new enlarged command.
“I wouldn’t want to break up a good match†Fuch confirmed “however your new company went through the thick of it against the Horses perhaps you may consider Harris for one of the lance slots?â€
“Anthony has a good head on him, sir, I couldn’t have done what I did yesterday without him he deserves some recognition.â€
“Very good I’ll cut the papers†Fuch said shaking Sortek’s hand a second time “and Hauptmann you can inform Mr Harris of the news.â€
“Thank you sir†Sortek said nodding his head slightly in thanks to the RCT commander before leaving the office ready to take on the new challenge. His first business was to see Anthony Harris the young man deserved to learn of his promotion, next was to check on the company he now commanded they had lost five warriors in the last battle against the Horses seven Mechs had been destroyed but two warriors had been recovered, finally he’d check on his BattleMech which had been all but destroyed in the last minutes of the battle outside the capital. Jason Sortek stopped about five steps from General Fuch’s office and suddenly wondered when he started thinking of others and his command before his own BattleMech… perhaps the General had him figured out after all.
Royal Birth, Medical Facility
Dormuth, Marik
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
8th September 3106
On Marik Captain-General Joseph Marik’s fourth child Aaron Marik is born with both newborn and his mother Lucy Marik doing well. This good news spreads quickly throughout the Free Worlds League just as the District of Regulus secure Wisconsin, Ayn Tarma and Skvorec from the disrupted space between the Free Worlds League and Magistracy of Canopus. On Wisconsin the First Rim Sentinels which had been contesting the planet with the Magistracy withdraw into the District of Lesnovo turning control over to the Regulan troops. These victories further strengthen the Regulans position in the Free Worlds League and further cut off the District of Oriente from the other nations of the Free Worlds League with their entire internal border held by the District of Regulus.
Skirmish
Robinson, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
18th September 3106
After weeks of patrolling past each other and passing in the street a company of warriors loyal to Mordecai Sandoval engage in a firefight with a patrol from the First Robinson Rangers RCT neither side lose any personnel or suffer serious equipment damage before their commanders order both sides to disengage. Duke Jerome Sandoval issues a strongly worded message to Mordecai Sandoval relating to any further “accidents†and the consequences of such an occurrence.
From New Avalon First Prince Burton Davion issues his own ultimatum to both parties that if they do not resolve the conflict that he would finish it. Unwilling to begin a Civil War in the the Draconis March Duke Jerome Sandoval announces the creation of the First Robinson Defenders Regiment, under Mordecia’s command, which will replace the Robinson Draconis March Militia unit. To give the new command deployment experience he assigns the Defenders to Lima alongside the Fourth Robinson Rangers LCT.
Naval Battle
Wing, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
27th September 3106
“I repeat this is Kapten Anne Wilson of the LCS Mitchell Simmons to incoming WarShips identify yourself and your reason for being in this system.†She said looking at the screen at the four WarShips approaching her Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser and the LCS Durance. “Can we identify them?†Wilson asked looking at the screens.
“Warbook places the closest ship to them as a Lola III but there are too many differences between them and the Lola III.â€
“This is what the Wolves have been working on at Tamarind.†Wilson mused “can we contact Wing get them to send a message to Wyatt and call in the Davion ships?†She asked the four House Davion WarShips on loan to the were based there reinforcing the Lyran position in those systems now that Clan Wolf was stretching its paws once more she needed their help more than ever.
“Negative massive jamming from the Wolf vessels†her communications officer said “oh my god they are blossoming!†He said looking at the screens as aerospace fighters launched from the incoming WarShips ten, twenty, thirty they continued to launch.
“How many Mr Allen?†Wilson asked looking at the screens losing count.
“One hundred-sixty†he replied as the fighters orientated themselves into their individual combat starts behind them small craft were also organizing themselves into units.
“Contact the Wolves we surrender and have the Durance do the same.â€
“Sir?†One of the crew asked surprised
“We would struggle to resist two of the Destroyers even with support from the ground we have less chance against four of them and no chance with that many aerospace fighters. I won’t see this crew killed fighting a battle they cannot win†she said angrily she wanted to resist the Wolves but knew that she could not win and she would not sacrifice her crew. “Someone else will win this fight.â€
She said watching as the Durance accelerated past the Simmons ignoring the stand down order “Hopkins don’t do this†she said keying in her communications link “Durance, this is the Simmons, if you do this I will have to order my crew to engage I will have to order my crew to die†she said lifting her finger off the communication button “bring up the engines twenty-five percent if we get pulled into this I don’t want to be flat-footed. No targeting†she ordered looking at the screen and the closing Wolf WarShips “com’on Hopkins!†She almost shouted “you must see we cannot win this fight it doesn’t matter if we live of die here! Com’on answer me you son-of-a-bitch I don’t want to die here today not in a meaningless fight. Give me an honest fight and I will beat them but don’t throw it away like this.†She said passionately begging the Durance’s commander not to engage the incoming Wolves. Watching the incoming Wolves she thought rapidly “give me communication with the Wolves now!†She commanded her crew nodded a moment later “this is Kapten Anne Wilson to the incoming Wolf forces we are ready to surrender this system to you but your overwhelming show of force shows that you cannot defeat us in a straight battle which the Commander of the Durance cannot accept. I challenge you to a Trial of Possession for this system†she said rapidly thinking as the Durance continued to close “I bid the LCS Mitchell Simmons, LCS Durance and their support craft in the defence of this system.†She said watching as the four WarShips continued to close “ready weapons†she said as the Durance entered firing range with the Wolf WarShips suddenly the Clan formation opened up the four WarShips splitting ranks two going either side of the Lyran vessels. Wilson braced herself for the inevitable broadside attacks from the Clan vessels but the attacks did not come instead the four WarShips and their aerospace fighters flew straight past the Lyran vessels turning around behind them.
“Lyran vessels we accept your challenge two of our vessels and our aerospace fighters will engage you the other vessels will remain inactive unless attacked.â€
Sometime later the Commander of the Wolf naval forces sat on the command bridge of the Grey Wolf as the vessel followed its sister-ship the Red Wolf. “Helm officer keep us in their wake and on their port side wherever the Red Wolf goes I want us to maintain station quiaff?â€
“Aff sirâ€
“They cannot win Star Admiral why do they try this?†the Executive officer asked watching the screens as the WarShips closed their aerospace fighters remaining close to the ships. The Lyrans were flying side by side the DropShips and fighters sheltered between them.
“They are men and women of honourâ€
“They are desperate†he replied a moment later looking back at the weapons console as they entered weapons range.
“Destroy the Coventry first with our capital weapons, have the AR-15 and our conventional guns cut down the DropShips half of our fighters are to strike at their fighters while the others strike directly at the Hyperion. Copy all orders to the Red Wolf.†He commanded as both sets of WarShips opened fire “as expected the two Lyran WarShips are concentrating on Red Wolf.â€
“Red Wolf turningâ€
“Helm officer maintain our position if the Lyrans are concentrating then so are we. Observation track where the Red Wolf fire and send to weapons for follow up fire.†Even as particle cannons, capital missiles, naval autocannons and naval lasers tore into the first Wolf WarShip. From the two Wolf WarShips quad mounts of Naval Autocannons, Naval Lasers and Particle Cannons slammed into the front of the incoming Hound-class Corvette. In a single exchange the two hundred and forty thousand ton Corvette was reduced to a pitted ruin which continued on its ballistic course as the WarShips passed each other both Wolf Destroyers opened fire with their broadside weapons tearing open the side of the crippled Corvette and destroying the Lyran DropShips.
Shielded by the destruction of the Corvette the Hyperion continued to fire on the two WarShips with its broadside mounted particle cannons and aft naval lasers with several shots striking the aft sections of the Grey Wolf. “Red Wolf pivoting†the sensor officer reported watching the silhouette of the other destroyer.
“Follow the maneuver, weapons stations compensate for movement, helm officer our position is now ahead of the Red Wolf. Communications have Red Wolf support their aerospace fighters and eliminate the final enemy fighters our fighters are to continue to engage the heavy cruiser.†The Admiral said watching the screens the Grey Wolf’s aerospace fighters were already swarming the Hyperion while the Red Wolf’s attacked the Hyperion. As the two Wolf WarShips turned end-over-end in space particle cannons, naval lasers and capital missiles struck them causing more damage.
“Hull breach section fourteen emergency bulkheads were closed we’re still air tight.â€
“Bring the main array onto the heavy cruiser, helm officer take us to full thrust and down their gut.†He commanded looking at the screen as the Grey Wolf settled and accelerated towards the Heavy Cruiser was heavier than the Grey Wolf and its weapon arrays were formidable. “Keep us at an angle with them, weapons officer hit them as we pass and keep hitting them.†He commanded as the two WarShips closed the aerospace fighters were causing heavy damage all on their own distracting the heavy cruiser forcing it to divert its fire. As they closed the particle cannons of the Hyperion were beginning to show their worth burning holes in the Grey Wolf’s armour however it also worked to the advantage of the Wolf WarShip with its naval autocannons coming into play from under and above the nose of the destroyer four naval autocannons spat out fire hitting the enemy vessel smashing open the armour. As the destroyer turned further autocannons along the hull opened fire further exploiting the heavy cruiser’s damaged hull. With repeated autocannon and particle cannons strikes ripping into the Lyran WarShip the heavy cruiser’s fight was over and with it the battle was finished Wing belonged to the Wolves. In the following days the systems of Gacrux, Pheoda and Chertan followed Wing into Clan Wolf’s possession more importantly the Wolves had successfully debuted their new WarShip class and deprived the Lyrans of two capital vessels.
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Another update. My continued thanks to James Tanaga for the Fire Mandrill story and I guess my continued apologies to any Lyran and Combine fans... Things will get better
Draconis Combine Defence
Land’s End, Land’s End Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
9th October 3106
The Draconis Combine’s Periphery region is ravaged by a further series of attacks from Clans Snow Raven and Nova Cat. In the defence of Land’s End the recently reformed Eleventh Ghost Regiment attempts to resist the Snow Raven assault utilizing companies of brand-new equipment including the Ixtab Hovertank. The Ixtab was based off Draconis Combine intelligence regarding the Nova Cat’s Cizin Hovertank using four extended-range medium lasers and two twin-tube short range missile launchers. The Ixtab utilizes heavy ferro-fibrous armour making it a tough nut to crack but lacks the integral CASE found on the Nova Cat vehicle. Regardless the Ixtab gives the Combine unit the flexibility to flank the Snow Raven ground forces keeping them on edge unfortunately even the speed and durability of the Ixtab cannot counter the Snow Ravens air superiority and the Ghosts are forced from the system with barely a combined arms battalion of their forces remaining.
As the Nova Cats seize three systems and the Snow Ravens seize four the Draconis Combine Government calls for assistance from the Star League Defence Force to help resist the Clans. The SLDF dispatch the Second Kittery Regimental Brigade, Stone’s Liberators, from Milos along with the WarShip SLS Truce of Tukayyid, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, the SLS Republic, a Republic-class Frigate, and several assault DropShips as escort.
FWL Assault
Landfall, Lothian League
Periphery
15th October 3106
“I completely disagree with this course of action!†Colonel John R Wrangler almost shouted looking at the Free Worlds League officer and then to the other mercenary commander. “I mean no offence Major Miller but The Thunder Road work better when they are deployed alone and under my direct command.†He said angrily looking first at the younger mercenary and then back to the Free Worlds League command Colonel Arthur Tressler.
“As do the Mailed Fist†Thomas Miller agreed “our contract specifically says that the Mailed Fist will remain completely under my command.â€
“Paragraph fourteen; section C, in the event that the Free Worlds League commander deems it necessary operational command will transfer to them.†Tressler said “I am the Free Worlds League Commander and I have deemed it necessary.†He said glancing between the two men “your units will work together under my command. Colonel Wrangler your forces will secure our central and eastern flans Major Miller your forces will hold the west. My command element will move through the centre with The Thunder Road we will overrun the Lothian defenders in this area and secure the capital.â€
“Sir, with respect our combined forces number more than two regiments of the latest equipment. Intelligence suggests that the local mercenary forces have a regiment of forces mostly infantry with their Mechs of a Fourth Succession-era vintage. We should negotiate.†Wrangler stressed not looking forward to the prospect Tressler’s own company would probably be enough to break them.
“I agree it will be a slaughter†Miller said
“These are my orders†Tressler ordered
“I will lodge a formal complaint with the MRBC we didn’t sign on to slaughter those that cannot defend themselves.â€
“Neither did we†Miller agreed
“I pay you paychecks gentlemen and you will carry out my commands.†He said as the two mercenary commanders suggested the following battle was a slaughter with the local defenders completely wiped out by the attack. Both mercenary units lodged formal complaints with the MRBC and FWL government over the unnecessary attack while Grand Mistress Clarissa Logan announced that she had formally taken control of Lothario and the Lothian League government and seeks peace with the Free Worlds League and Lyran Commonwealth.
Trial of Possession
Pasig, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
Clan Occupied Space, Inner Sphere
24th October 3106
During a successful Trial of Possession for control of the Pasig system Clan Sea Fox deploy several new BattleMechs which look like the Thanatos BattleMech deployed by the Inner Sphere. Analysis of the BattleMechs suggests that this new design is sixty tons in weight and is capable of matching the movement profile of the Inner Sphere Mech it resembles. The BattleMech dubbed the Thanatos IIC appears to be armed with several different types of laser weapon, an anti-personnel gauss rifle and a twelve-tube Advanced Tactical Missile Launcher.
The deployment of this BattleMech only a few months after the deployment of the Thanatos TNS-4E by the Lyran Commonwealth and the use of ATMs on both designs suggest a link between the Sea Foxes and House Steiner that goes deeper than simply a trade alliance.
Lost
Rim Collection, Periphery
27th October, 3106
“Damnit!†Star Captain Bryan Chrisholm cursed as he looked out his cockpit, turning away from his target. The Elysium was getting hit by everything the Stone Spirit WarShip could hit her with. Even at this distance, he could see the Elysium was on its final legs. He knew this battle would be its last. Win, lose, or draw, the Whirlwind-class destroyer was done for.
Yet it was giving as good as it was receiving, he well knew. Already, he could see heavy damage done to the enemy WarShip’s aft section, primarily around the WarShip’s massive engine blocks.
The Stone Spirit warship, an ancient Dart-class Light Cruiser if he remembered right, jumped into the system two days ago, carrying four DropShips. One, a near-extinct Miraborg-class DropShip, carried the entire aerospace asset for the force. The two Titan Monitors the Rim Collection had in the system had already severely damaged it. He knew two other Stone Spirit DropShips had stormed their way to Lost.
As he turned his Kirghiz around, he could only shake his head as the Elysium began breaking up. Yet its sacrifice allowed them victory, he noted, as his eyes tracked incoming missile fire from both Titan Monitors. He took aim and fired, sending two ER PPC blasts in tandem into one of the cruiser’s impressive weapons banks on its starboard side.
Again and again, he and his fellow Warriors, assisted by the Titan Monitors and then later, the regular Titan, slowly, but firmly crippled the proud warship. He and the other aerospace fighter pilots would target weapon banks after weapon banks, while the Titans targeted the warship itself.
Soon, he could see lifeboats and lifepods ejecting from the now-crippled warship. Over his radio, he idly noted the surviving Stone Spirit crew of the WarShip comm. in their surrender. Still, he and his fellow pilots continued hammering the ancient Dart until finally he could see the power finally flicker then die all across the ship.
“Echo Trinary; begin escorting the lifeboats and pods to Lazy Monkey. Repeat. Echo Trinary begin escorting the survivors to Lazy Monkey,†Star Captain Abraham Lynn of the Infernal Howl, his DropShip commander, reported over his radio.
“Echo-One here. Roger that, Infernal. All pilots begin escort duties to the Lazy Monkey. Over,†he ordered into his radio. As his fellow pilots reported in, he noted just how close the battle had nearly turned against them, as he and his point mate passed the Gleamed Eye, one of two Titan Monitors in the DropShip star. He shook his head, as he forced himself not to stare at the damage done to its ventral port side. Soon, he and his fellow pilots began to escort the surviving Stone Spirit bondsmen to the RCJS Lazy Monkey, the Odyssey-class JumpShip that served as his DropShip star’s transport.
Wedding, Subtlety (McKenna MOD)
Galatea, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
30th October 3106
On board the training WarShip Subtlety Captain William Leroy-Dietrich and his fiancée Commander America Park marry in front of the ship’s complement and many others from the other ships of the travelling college. The two take a leave of absence from the Subtlety travelling to the world of Skye for their honeymoon taking a cruise through the lakes of Skye on a luxury yacht.
During their visit to Skye Duchess of Skye Ilsa Kelswa-Aten attempts to recruit the Leroy-Deitrich and his crew to the Isle of Skye offering them riches beyond their dreams. Leroy-Dietrich respectfully declines stating that the Subtlety will continue to remain an independent WarShip training anyone who desires their assistance in the Galatea system.
RCJS Lazy Monkey (Odyssey-class JumpShip)
Lost, Rim Collection
Periphery
31st October, 3106
Bryan sat in the ready room onboard the RCJS Lazy Monkey, idly watching the collage of holo-images and video being sent out from Lyran space. From back of him, he heard a whistle coming from Star Commander Anastasia. “Looks the dezgra Spirits are finally on the move, ovKhan,†she spoke out loud.
“Aff,†Star Captain Jose Carrol reported, as the holo-screen shifted to a map displaying the Stone Spirit, Lyran Commonwealth, and Rim Collection borders. “We have confirmed reports the Spirits have begun their assault on five systems.â€
Bryan was shocked. How the hell- He sensed his fellow Warriors felt the same as he by the news; gob smacked. Anastasia voiced all of their thoughts. “How in the hell did the dezgra Spirits of all people just rammed the the Lyrans a new one, ovkhan?!â€
“You want the simple answer or the complex one, Star Commander,†Jose answered in kind.
“Preferably both, but simple will do for now,†Bryan answered up, less he appear to the others as being unable to lead.
“Alright,†Jose Carrol sighed out as he brushed his hair. “Spirits are using simple isolate and overwhelm tactics all across the board. Their ground units are scattering the Lyrans with overwhelming firepower.†The older Warrior added as an afterthought. “The Lyrans stripped the Periphery border in favour of sending units into a meat-grinder against the Jade Falcons and Hell's Horses. As is with all things when peace came to the Falcon border the worlds there still liked the defences they had, the units liked the additional facilities available further into the Inner Sphere and the units that should have been rotated back to the periphery remained on the Falcon border." He explained "the Eighth Commonwealth Guards and the Fourteenth Lyran Regulars RCT are garrisoning multiple worlds they cannot bring their full weight to bear in defence. Aside from the Eighth's Second Battalion on Canal, all their garrisons are being hit hard. I doubt we will be seeing much more of those units ever again.â€
Bryan nodded to himself. “What about the Dismal Disinherited,†he asked out loud.
“The Spirits have hit their garrisons on Kwangjong-ni, Ma'anshan and Issba counting down the three systems†Jose informed them. “Judging by the reports, seem like the dezgra mercs will be facing an over-strengthened galaxy just on their own. If that is true,†he didn’t need to finish.
“The dezgra mercs are in for a world of hurt,†Bryan ended the thought.
“Can the Lyrans push back the Spirits,†questioned Warrior Michael Fitzgerald, one of two Collection Freeborn Warriors in their unit.
Though Jose shook his head, Bryan turned his head to the back in Michael’s direction. “Not without WarShip and heavy DropShip support, Mike, and we all know the Lyrans allocation of assault DropShips to the Periphery.â€
“You mean none, quiaff,†chuckled out his point mate Jasmine, causing many to laugh. "They still have the LCS Morgan Kell and LCS Arthur Steiner Davion" Jasmine noted naming the Fox-class and Hyperion-class WarShips if they could utilize them correctly they could put a dent in the Stone Spirit assault." She noted with brought even more laughter few of them expected the Lyrans to use their naval forces correctly.
Once the laughter had settled, everyone once became serious. “Even if the Lyrans use said support correctly, I doubt it would do them any good,†remarked Star Commander Helena Fire Mandrill, a survivor from the Elysium. “As noted what units they have in area are not front-line units.â€
“I noticed that too,†Bryan admitted. “Pass the mercs at Kwangjong-ni, Ma'anshan and Issba; the Spirits have nearly a free run deep into Lyran space if they feel like pushing. The Lyran militia forces in this region are laughing stocks. They only need to hit the Ninth Regulars and their depot at Millerton to safeguard their flank. My guess is they attacked us here to safeguard their other flank, quiaff?†he queried Jose.
“Aff,†the older Warrior answered. “Before our forces ground side managed to stop the Spirits, they nearly destroyed our primary supply depot. Most of our missiles and ballistics were destroyed, along with a good chunk of our spare parts.â€
“There goes our vacation into the Stone Spirit wilderness,†joked Star Commander Toga.
“I am afraid your safari into the Stone Spirit jungle has been put on hold Toga,†Jose humored the teenager Star Commander, causing some chuckles throughout the room. “The RCS Firestorm is escorting the RCS Providence here. Our orders are to safeguard the crippled Spirit of York and our new bondsmen as well as give support to the First Rim Rangers and Seventh Rim Strikers planet side. Only when the RCS Providence is away with the Spirit of York will our safari begin,†he answered ferally. “Until then, we keep a watchful eye on the border, quiaff?â€
“Aff!†Bryan and his fellow Warriors answered in kind. All knew their Clan was going to have fun with the Stone Spirits. For now, they just needed to be patient. Nothing hard, quiaff?
Falling back from the Stone Spirit attacks the Dismal Disinherited Mercenary Brigade had lost approximately a Regiment of BattleMechs and support units. The Eighth Commonwealth Guards had effectively been destroyed with only a single combined arms Battalion remaining on Canal while Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT were heavily engaged on several worlds and were trying to regroup on Baryshevo.
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nice update!
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Extra long November 3106 with pieces from marauder648, James Tanaga... and me
Anderson Station (Olympus-class Research Station)
Sigma Mare, Andurien Commonality
Capellan Confederation
5th November 3106
There was a small gathering on the gravity deck of the Olympus-class Recharge Station, Anderson Station, in the Sigma Mare system deep inside the Capellan Confederation. Among the guests was Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao who looked very bored listening to the engineer who was explaining what was happening. “As you saw earlier at this station we have built the lower half of the vessel while in the Conquista system the rest of the ship has been built. Between our two systems we are building two ships at the same time Conquista building the top sections while we build the lower sections.â€
“Very interesting†the Chancellor said dryly he wasn’t entirely sure shy he was here if he was honest. Suddenly off the bow of the space station a JumpShip flashed into the system and quickly dispatched two DropShips one a Behemoth while the other looked like it carried some sort of Tug attachment. It took the two ships approximately thirty minutes to approach the space station when they did the tug approached the lower half of the space station while the Behemoth held off opening its cargo bay to space while mechanical arms inside the ship slowly moved the top section of what appeared to be a Lung Wang-class DropShip out of it’s first bay. As the Chancellor watched the partially completed DropShip being moved out of the ship the Tug reappeared pushing the lower half of the Lung Wang. The lower section was expertly moved into position underneath the forward section and Dao-Shen Liao could see engineers scrambling over the hull connecting the two sections together.
“The connection process takes approximately a day and a half.†He said confidently as the engineers worked quickly over the hull “the ship will then be fueled and loaded with ammunition and will be ready for service within a couple of days.†The engineer said as another Tug appeared moving another section of DropShip into position as a second nose section was pushed out into space this time it was a Celestial-class Pocket WarShip the Chancellor could see the difference in the hull shape. “In the Celestial’s case she will also need aerospace fighters but in all intensive purposes both of these ships will be ready for service tomorrow afternoon.†The engineer promised surprising Chancellor Dao-shen Liao.
“How long to build them?â€
“Approximately two months to build both ships because we are only building half of the ship here we can concentrate on completing those sections while Conquista can build the control sections. Both stations build weapons into their individual sections while the reactors are not brought online until the ship is fully completed. If we had an ammunition station in system both vessels would be ready for service and fully armed within two days.†He said deciding to push his luck a little further “if there was a second station in this system and another in the Conquista system then we would both be aple to purchase attack DropShips independent of each other.
“Of course†the Chancellor said watching the DropShip come together in space. “What about quality control if the ship is not powered before it is completed how do you know the systems work?†The Chancellor asked
“We run the ship’s systems from the station during station. Each section is fully tested in the cargo bay on this station. There will be a twelve hour testing period tomorrow before they are shipped out.â€
“Impressive†Dao-Shen Liao said one of the Capellan Confederation’s greatest restrictions was they only had two construction facilities for WarShips. Compared to their neighbours the facilities in the Confederation couldn’t keep up with production. However if they were able to build dozens of “Pocket WarShips†perhaps they could flood the space with combat vessels to overwhelm the larger WarShips. “I am going to transfer a Wing of the Hell’s Black Aces to this system. Their job will be to extensively test each of the DropShips that you pass on your quality control.†He said “should they pass our requirements I will pass funding for an ammunition facility to be built in this system so you can complete the vessels here.†He said “however if they fail you will…â€
“I understand†the engineer said leaving Dao-shen’s point unsaid.
“You and your people have served the Confederation well and if your progress continues at the pace currently seen then perhaps we will approach your idea about a second station.†He said showing that he had heard the engineer’s idea.
Lyran Counter Attack
Elba, Inarcs Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
8th November 3106
A counter-attack launched by the Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT and several small mercenary commands finds that the Stone Spirits have stripped their holdings to the bare minimum defences with Elba and Lushun being quickly overwhelmed by the Lyran’s front line unit. Unfortunately their victory comes at a heavy price as the Stone Spirits Bonaventure-class Corvette jumps into the system almost ontop of the LCS Arthur Steiner-Davion while it charged its K-F Drive. In close the Bonaventure is able to cause crippling damage to the Arthur Steiner-Davion even as the Fox’s autocannons, missiles and support vessels breach the Stone Spirit vessel’s hull.
Stone Spirit ground forces follow the Bonaveture into the systems and land on both Elba and Lushun causing heavy damage to the Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT causing enough casualties to make the unit combat ineffective. Although the Lyran High Command are displeased at the loss of another WarShip and at the casualties the Fourteenth had suffered they are pleased that Elba and Lushun are again Lyran holdings as it shows the public that the Stone Spirits can be resisted.
Kaumberg Theatre Militia Rapid Response Unit
Champadanga, Kaumberg Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth, Inner Sphere
11th November 3106
Kommandant Kelly Varnay looked through the binoculars as the Stone Spirits unloaded from their two Overlord-C DropShips on the tarmac below the mountain she was on. Judging from what she saw, she and her battalion were facing roughly two trinaries of heavy and assault BattleMechs, a trinary of armor, and a mere star of Elementals. She knew the Spirits had a Carrier DropShip containing a full star of aerospace fighters in orbit guarding their Invader-class JumpShip.
“Just confirmed it, Kommandant, those’re the Spirits Eleventh Assault Cluster,†Staff Sergeant Brian O’Malley quietly reported to her. “They were last reported on Kwangjong-ni by the Second Dismal Disinherited mercenary unit when they were buggin’ out.â€
She gave an absent nod letting the Staff Sergeant know she heard him. “If they’re here, I’d bet my entire savings the Spirits be hitting Niangol and Krung Thep right about now, if they hadn’t done so already.â€
“My thoughts as well, Staff Sergeant,†she replied back, not taking her eyes off the Spirits. “Doesn’t make sense why they are pushing this deep though,†she muttered a second later.
“They’re clanners, lass. They don’t exactly follow the norms, you know,†he remarked back. “They find a weakness and they be exploiting it and damn the consequences.â€
“No. Their push is different. More methodical, more precise then it should be,†Kelly surmised as she pulled the binoculars away from her face. “Much more so. Hitting our border units with overwhelming fire power. Crippling the counter-attack at Elba but when they could destroy them they leave the unit, and system in our hands, before hitting our supplies on Millerton and mauling up the Ninth Commonwealth Guards before withdrawing. And now they’re hitting us here.â€
“You think the bastards be planning something major, lass,†Brian asked.
“I don’t know, Staff Sergeant. What planets can they want and realistically strike and hold,†she asked as she continued to look down from her perch in the mountain.
“The Dismal Disinherited retreated to Baryshevo. The Obsidian Lancers Brigade have been posted there ever since the mess on Lost,†Brian suggested. “Could be the Spirits decided enough’s enough and’ll be making an example out of them.â€
She shook her head. “No. If that was the case, the Eleventh Assault would have shown up there, not here.â€
“Loxley,†he asked her, causing her to shake her head again. Loxley a contributer to the Lyran Commonwealth’s defence and it was a stepping stone towards a strike at Coventry.
“The Spirits have to go through Baryshevo to do that or risk five mercenary brigades in their rear. Or at least deploy one of their WarShips there to keep the mercs pinned planetside, yet they haven’t done that yet. And again, doesn’t exactly answer that cluster’s presence here.â€
“Maybe Kaumberg, lass,†the older Staff Sergeant suggested a long moment later, causing her to turn and face him. “Just saying capturing the world be a nice catch for the Spirits. ‘Specifically with Rim Motors now on the planet and building it up.â€
Kelly snorted at that, but didn’t say anything as she turned back to face the Stone Spirits below. Rim Motors very recent purchase of Wechsel Royal had been a small scandal, up until the Spirits started their blitz, the Rim Collection’s investment on Lyran soil had been big news in the Periphery theatres. She doubted the Spirits were that stupid it was too far out of their way, she judged. “If they weren’t going to Loxley, not hitting Baryshevo, and likely not hitting Kaumberg, where did it leave for the Spirits to go,†she asked out loud.
“Alarion maybe, ma’am,†Private Nicole Von Neidmann, a scout sniper posted nearby, inquired, causing Kelly to turn to her. She remembered the sniper was an Alarion native.
“Come on, lass,†Staff Sergeant Brian O’Malley sneered at the younger woman. “You can’t be that stupid can you? The Spirits can’t hit that deep.â€
“With respect, Sarge, they could. You forget the other periphery units were pulled out to hold the Falcons at Arc Royal,†was the younger woman’s prim response.
Before the Staff Sergeant could say anything, Kelly decided to end the discussion.
“Whether or not the Spirits are pushing to Alarion is above all our pay-grades, Staff Sergeant, Private,†she reminded them. “Staff Sergeant, head back to HQ and fire up the mobile HPG. Let High Command know an Elite Stone Spirit cluster just landed and ask for instructions. Let them know we plan to somehow keep them here planet-side.â€
The much older Lyran soldier looked like he might argue with Kelly, but thought better of it. “Right-o, lass. Just get back to base before sundown. I hear Eric and North are’a making some mean jambalaya,†he winked at her before getting up, leaving Kelly with Nicole and her fellow sniper, Bao.
“Pig,†Nicole commented underneath her breath. Kelly shook her head as she once again studied the Stone Spirits down below the mountain. Minutes passed before Kelly heard the still quiet male sniper sigh softly. Turning her attention to him, she noticed Nicole was motioning him about something.
“What is it,†she asked.
“Nikki here wants to know why you chose us, ma’am,†the quiet man asked, causing Kelly to glare at the two of them for a moment, before turning her attention to the Spirits.
A moment passed as Kelly decided whether to tell the two. “The FedRats have long memories,†she informed them sighing.
Nicole looked lost, but Bao nodded wisely. “Guessing when you were promoted, it was either us or a desk job,†he guessed quietly.
Kelly nodded absently. “I wasn’t even a year old when my father decided to launch his coup against the First Prince. Yet that didn’t stop him from exiling myself and my mother,†she remarked quietly to herself. “And now, I am blacklisted in the Lyran military, all because of my last name and who my father was.â€
Kelly felt a hand on her shoulder. Looking up, she looked into Boa’s brown eyes. “We are lucky to have you with us, ma’am,†he remarked to her. It was then she noticed she was crying softly.
He turned his head slightly downward. “And I think now is the time to prove to yourself you aren’t your father,†he noted, nodding to where the Stone Spirit DropShips lay. No armor or Mechs were around them, Kelly idly noted after looking through her binoculars.
Laying them down, she got up and grabbed her Mauser laser rifle. “Thanks, Corporal,†she remarked a smile on her face as she left the two snipers to continue their surveillance of the Stone Spirit DropShips.
Snow Raven Assault
Suianheer, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
12th November 3106
As Snow Raven ground forces burned towards the planet’s surface the Constellation, Clan Snow Raven’s newest WarShip and the first of her class, moved towards the two defending WarShips. In the command centre Star Admiral Martin Lankenau watched as the Corvette and Destroyer moved towards the Raven ground forces and aerospace fighters from both sides engaged. “Let us gain their attention, the Corvette first†he commanded as gunner stations on the bridge lined up the six hundred-and-eighty thousand ton vessel’s weapons on the enemy WarShips.
“Sir, our ground forces are leaving the WarShips engagement ranges the only way they will be able to hit them now is if they are willing to risk bombarding the surface.†One of the bridge crew announced.
“Understood†Lankenau said as the Constellation’s forward array of naval lasers and light repeating naval gauss rifles engaged the enemy WarShips he was glad to see that most of the gauss rifle slugs slammed into the Inazuma smashing through its armour and into its internal structure causing enough damage for the lasers to finish off the Corvette. “Have our DropShips remain close to us until we close on the enemy.†He ordered as the Constellation turned.
“Sir, ground forces have engaged the Fifth and Sixth Midway Regulars on planet.â€
“Very good inform them we will have air superiority within the hour.†He said as naval autocannons, particle cannons and capital missiles struck the Constellation as the enemy Tatsumaki II, the DCS Onami turned on the Snow Raven vessel.
“Incoming brace of capital missiles fired from assault DropShips!â€
“Point defences! Release our DropShips and have them kill the launching vessels.†He commanded watching the wave of capital missiles approaching the the Constellation. From around the Constellation the four Arcadia-class DropShips charged down the enemy vessels one of the capital missiles locked onto one of the Arcadia’s striking the small vessel resulting in an immediate nuclear explosion. “By the Father†Lankenau remarked seeing the explosion “roll us to port bring the broadside in line with the enemy DropShips ignore that Tatsumaki.†He commanded as the Constellation’s thick anti-missile defences cut down the enemy capital missiles “to all of our DropShips ordinance from Constellation down range.†He commanded hoping his warning would ensure no friendly DropShips were destroyed by the Constellation’s broadside. Naval lasers cut through space cutting into the enemy vessels knocking three out of space allowing the Raven DropShips to deploy their ProtoMechs onto the hulls of the enemy vessels.
With the Constellation turned towards the DropShips it had allowed the enemy Tatsumaki II to close unleashing its full firepower on the Frigate’s nose as it passed by. Explosions rippled across the Constellation’s hull as armour and weapons were destroyed by the destroyer’s flying pass. “Pivot the nose away weapons stations fire at will on enemy vessel.†He commanded as the Constellation’s nose dropped down away from the enemy target the two ships continued to exchange fire. Weapon fire continued as the destroyed moved past the frigate the smaller ship trying to turn to keep its nose on the Snow Raven vessel as gauss rifle and laser fire tore through its armour.
“Their hull is breached in several locations†one of the Raven bridge crew announced looking at the enemy vessel’s sensor image “they cannot sustain much more damage.â€
“Offer surrender they do not need to die today†Lankenau said even as weapons fire continued to be exchanged between the two naval titans but Lankenau’s offer came too late as the Tatsumaki II’s hull cracked open after sustaining another barrage of naval gauss rifle fire.
On the ground three clusters of elite Snow Raven warriors fought against the two DCMS line regiments pushing them back over and over again. With the Ravens securing the space around Suianheer Raven aerospace fighters soon dominated the skies around the DCMS ground forces staffing defensive positions breaking up each attempt by the Midway Regulars to hold their ground. In the space of six hours all ground and space resistance was over and Suianheer was a Snow Raven holding.
Elsewhere the second Constellation-class Frigate was taken over by its new owners members of Clan Coyote. The frigate and a Drake-class Corvette would be traded to the Coyotes in exchange for vehicles, Mechs and a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser which would allow all of the Raven ground units to be full mobile.
Kaumberg Theatre Militia Rapid Response Unit
Champadanga, Kaumberg Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth, Inner Sphere
17th November, 3106
Kelly Varnay watched in the small view screen in her helmet as she watched a trinary of Stone Spirit battlemechs begin loading up in one of their DropShips. Two she noticed stood guard outside. It was time, she decided to herself.
“Ferret Lead to all Fesnyng units. Let’s go hunting,†she ordered through her radio. Soon, she could see the accurate fire from all four of the Marksman artillery tanks in her unit began raining down on the two DropShips as she pushed her Wolfhound forward, leading the rest of her unit down the mountain.
Within minutes, they had reached the spaceport, where mangled Mechs were lying, just as the artillery from the four Marksman finally ended. The twelve Lyran light BattleMechs quickly terminated the remaining six damaged Mechs as the Cavalry VTOL helicopters hovered overhead. Another five minute passed before both DropShips were under their control. “Call in the Prime Movers, Hamilton I want you to look out any local civilian transport we need to maximize what we can remove from here. Grant, get the DropShip crews out and set the charges I want us gone before anyone else arrives.â€
Just as quickly as they came, the Lyran irregular militia left moving back into the Fesnyng’s secret base in the mountains just as both wrecked DropShips exploded from the charges they had left inside them. The damage the attack had done was enough it had caused the Stone Spirits to decide that Champadanga was too much trouble for its worth leaving the Kaumberg Militia Rapid Response Unit in charge of the planet. Combined with the attacks on Elba and Lushun the Lyrans had again proven that they could resist and push back the Stone Spirits unfortunately it seemed the pirate clan continued to have fight in it.
Unfortunately even as the Lyrans celebrated pushing back the raiders once more a Stone Spirits showed why they should be so feared. The flagship of the Stone Spirit force the General Stuart, an ancient Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser along with a Samarkand-class Light Carrier attacked and caused heavy damage to the LCS Morgan Kell, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, in the Elume system. The Mogan Kell was able to withdraw to Elume’s orbit and link up with aerospace assets from the planet’s surface but the Stone Spirit attack showed the clan raiders would strike wherever they saw a threat.
SLDF Observation Post
Devil’s Rock, Star League’s Protectorate
24th November 3106
Alex stepped into the room near the wall Adam looked out the window watching their target through a pair of binoculars “where is Morgan?†she asked
“On the phone to command†Ralph said
“Again?†Alex asked “they are going to tell him the same thing.†She said sinking into one of the chairs.
“Didn't hear him last night, Alex, it might have been the drink talking but he wants to go. Seems like he’s willing to accept anything†Adam set not moving from the window watching for signs of wanted criminal Bobby Winchester.
“He won't leave he is his father son, 50 C bills he stays†Alex said pulling out a bill putting her money where her mouth was.
“I'm my father son, you’re a daughter of Terra, and Ralph well Ralph exists. I'll take your money you're on†Adam agreed
“I'll take some of that action†Ralph said handing over his own Bill just as Morgan stepped into the room.
“Morning boss†Alex said greeting an unshaven Morgan Christifori “anything new from command?†she asked hoping that maybe someone had decided to preach the Prochnow settlement.
“Negative we're to continue to observe†he said sounding resigned to the fate.
“Get your new assignment boss?†Adam asked continuing to watch at the window Alex shot the man an annoyed gaze not wanting the idea in their commander’s mind.
“They said I can have a transfer†Morgan said bringing a shocked look from Alex and even a glance from Adam before he looked back out the window. “But†he continued “they said you guys couldn't come with me and I've have to join a garrison unit for a bit until they sorted out where I belonged.†He explained “so I said I'd stay put. They did say that my next assignment would be one that I could get my arse shot off and are you could all join me†he announced with groans from them all money was exchanged between Adam and Alex “to stay or go†Morgan asked
“Always stay boss†Alex replied with a smile pocketing the cash.
Trade Mission
Tukayyid, Clan Space
Inner Sphere
31st November 3106
A quick shake of the head cleared the faint lingering nausea from the aftermath of the jump across the light years. “Status†Captain Julie Leitner called out
“We’re here Ma’am, holding steady at Nadir point, 2.5 million clicks from edge of…Status change! We’re being actively targeted.†Her executive officer Dastan Buckley warned.
“Steady Mr Buckley, its just the security patrol.â€
Captain Leitner sat back in her chair, adjusting the straps so they were no longer biting into her right shoulder. A glance at the sensor display told her all she needed to see, still she was irritated at the rather young helmsman who had only joined the crew three weeks ago when Nikki came down with ‘a bout of shore leave’ and had to be left behind.
“Four other Jumpers at the point, we’ve got a dropper inbound, she’s locked onto us and hailing.â€
“Put him through.â€
The display screen flickered slightly and the image of a stern faced yet young looking man, dark skinned with his hair in loose bangs appeared.
“I am Star Captain Miles. State your purpose in this system.â€
‘Always so formal’ “Well met, I am Captain Julie Leitner, Commander of the JumpShip Pot Luck. I am carrying two DropShips with cargo for Tukkayid. We are expected.â€
“Confirmed†he said a moment later “your vessel is on the roster for this week’s list of arrivals. Hold your position and await boarding and inspection. If you launch any DropShip or small craft we will fire into you.†With that comms shut off.
“Are they always like that?â€
“Hah, no, he was being polite! The Ebon Guard are a very professional bunch, when they come over, do NOT piss them off, they are very trigger happy with their stunners and most of ‘em could kick your ass before you could say ‘I was only jokin’.â€
“But you heard the man, station keeping, don’t move us a meter, let the DropShip crews know that they have an inspection coming.â€
“What about their Captains?â€
“We’re all vets here; they already know what’s coming.â€
What was coming was a three hour long wait as the Clan DropShip a sleek black and silver vessel first docked with another JumpShip, a small Scout type ship, its DropShip proudly baring the orange and red rock symbol of Valdez Heavy Industries. Only when Captain Leitner had dozed off in her chair did the docking alert sound. A small shuttle was clamping onto the dorsal airlock, the craft was painted black and silver, just like its mother-ship.
“Okay, game faces on people! Attention all hands, we’ve got a customs crew on board, all crews are to report to the grav deck and for god’s sake, come unarmed and bring your bloody bio-metrics with you! I don’t want a repeat of the last run here Steven…â€
Most of the crew were already lounging on the Merchant’s small grav deck, a few running off back to their cabins to get their bio’s, small chips that acted as a universal passport, and far harder to forge or crack and edit.
The Captain and her XO though met the Clan borders at the airlock. As it cycled open a heavily armoured and armed man stepped through, well, ducked in through the airlock, carrying a big ass assault laser rifle, imposing as all hell in his black armour. Another Elemental entered and then they stood aside as another Clanner stepped onto the deck, it was the dark skinned man from earlier.
‘So damn young...’ he could not have been more than twenty years old, but he carried himself with the air of an older, more experienced veteran.
“Star Captain Miles, welcome aboard the Pot Luck.â€
“Captain Leitner, your vessel has been in this system eight times in the past four months, so you know the procedure.â€
Julia smiled since the Solaris Agreement Tukayyid had been opened to trade the Sea Foxes hated the Inner Sphere and actively tried to purchase goods at local Inner Sphere trade points in an attempt to stop the traders coming here. Each encounter with the Ebon Guard was the same she should be used to this by now but inwardly she sighed, even the customs and staff at New Avalon were not as anally retentive as the Clanners. She’d met one of the Clanners on three trips they KNEW each other by face and name, but every time it was 100% professional, not going through the motions or just winging it. Every check was deadly serious. She handed over the inventory detailing the two attached DropShips cargo, as well as a full manifest of the crews details, that held their history for the past year.
Whilst this was going on a slimmed down quad battle armour clanked its way out of the shuttles airlock moving on magnetic claims, a potent looking array of sensors on its back.
“That’s new.â€
“Aff. It will aid in the inspection.â€
“I spotted; you spent three hours on that Scout, that’s a new record.†Captain Leitner said, smiling lightly before mentally kicking herself for trying a bit of humour. The humour landed with all the grace of a falling Atlas and the three Clanners remained stony faced and stern looking.
“Aff, we are working to improve efficiency.â€
“Excellent! How long do you think it will take for this inspection to be complete?â€
“No longer than five hours.â€
‘FIVE ****** HOURS!?’ Leitner exclaimed in surprise “that is not too bad†she conceded covering quickly
“Aff. Please stand aside Captain.â€
Whilst Clan DropShip and JumpShips didn’t have to go through the intense customs investigations, Spheroid visitors to the Tukkayid system, no matter who and what went through the same thing. The Clans were very careful with visitors coming to their new capital world. Every DropShip was escorted down to the surface by Aerospace assets, if you diverted from your assigned landing corridor you could expect a shot across the bow. Failure to return to course meant destruction moments later.
Spheroid DropShips landed at a spaceport far away from Andrey City, itself a fortress before your cargo was checked AGAIN but this time in the unloading. Usually taking another few hours whilst the Clans checked the orbital manifest with the one on the ground as well as running another bio scan of passengers and crew. Even leaving your ship was escorted all the way back to the JumpShips and the aero’s didn’t leave until you jumped out again.
The Battle armour turned out to have some kind of active probe and it was able to maneuver in zero-g thanks to thrusters along its legs and feet whilst the dozen Clanners on the shuttle went through the manifest, checking the crew, their background and history with a fine tooth comb.
Still the view from orbit was magnificent. Julia had been down to the planet twice and she could see the shipyards churning out DropShips and JumpShips, the off limits slips where WarShips were made as well as conglomerations of orbital factories. The city of Andry itself was laid out in the same shape as the Cameron Star with the Hall of the Khan’s at the centre along with the massively fortified genetic repository. The city was an avatar of Clan aesthetics and as one visitor had called it ‘a triumph in minimalist design’, white and grey stone or gleaming steel and glass buildings flanked wide roads whilst trees from worlds across Clan holdings as well as ancient Terran Oaks were dotted along the side of the roads whilst parks and artfully crafted water features helped beautify the city. Statues were present aplenty, three statues of the Kerensky’s formed the main entrance to the Hall of the Khan’s whilst a fourth, more abstract one was said to represent Alexsandr Kerensky’s wife. Still this was something that Spheroids rarely saw, this was the Clan’s city, diplomats and trade envoys were permitted but merchant ship captains. Certainly not.
But Captain Leitner would not be going to the surface this week. No for her it was a case of sat in orbit, enduring close passes by Clanner Aerospace jocks and DropShips whilst waiting for the slow process of unloading to finish. ‘Fun times’.
-
Now for a special month. Other than the fighting between the Combine and Ravens and a couple of edits from me this month is all James Tanaga. I personally think its a great piece of work.
Conference Room, LCS Adam Steiner
Alarion, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth, Inner Sphere
9th December 3106
Admiral Patrick Doyle sat at the head of the conference table on board the LCS Adam Steiner, studying the holo-screen as he waited for his subordinates to arrive. The renegade Stone Spirits had continued their push, taking the worlds of Kelang, Sappir, and Triesting while covering their flank at Etiler and Virtue. It all meant one thing.
The Spirits were coming for Alarion.
The automatic door slid open, and his subordinates began piling into the room, taking seats to either side of him after he returned their salutes. The top of the screen showed four officers that couldn’t make it in person, but were televising via HPG or standard communications.
“I don’t believe I need to say it but the regs require it of me. Anything leaks from this room; it’s on your heads. Verstanden?†He ignored their dutiful agreement to his words. He noted a few looked nervous, especially the youngest and most junior of them, Kommandant Varnay from somewhere in the Stone Spirits Occupation Zone.
“Ten days ago, the Spirits struck these three worlds.†Pausing, he clicked the buttons near him, so the holo-screen could show the Inner Sphere topography map. Zooming in, it showed the highlighted worlds of Kelang, Sappir, and Triesting. He ignored the sucking of breath from a few of his subordinates and the comments from a couple of others the Stone Spirits appeared to not care about holding their territory instead they wanted to hurt the Commonwealth.
“Four days later, the Spirits conducted attacks into Etiler and Virtue,†he paused for the briefest of moments, allowing the news to hit as he meant it to before moving on. “The LCS William Steiner faced off against two of the Spirits antiquated destroyers and that Vincent of theirs before being forced to withdraw. She suffered heavy damage and won’t be available for our operation against the Spirits.â€
“Meanwhile, the Stone Spirits’ Second Stone Guards and Eleventh Assault Clusters conducted a raid in force on Virtue, destroying one battalion and mauling another from the Tenth Commonwealth Guards,†Kathy Parks took over from her place directly to his right. He nodded to the elderly woman, who nodded back, before turning to address the table. “These two raids effectively secured their borders. Yesterday, the Estates General used its Emergency Powers and removed Robert Johnson as the Lyran Intelligence Commands Director. Henrietta Bradford of the Marik Oversight Office will be replacing him.â€
Admiral Doyle noted many in the room didn’t like that decision but it was one that needed to happen Intellgence should have seen this attack and should have prepared for it. He also knew they won’t like what was coming next, as he once again took control of the room. “General of Armies Aiden Grey has decided to cede control of this front due to currently being out place on Tharkad.†He noticed nearly all in the room were upset at the news. Aiden Grey was well-liked with the Lyran military. Even those who were political rivals of his respected him. Doyle had been one of the voices that had said the General of Armies should be replaced but it was a failure of Intelligence not military command.
“Sir, with respect, who will replace him, there needs to be a chain of command?†asked Colonel Spencer Hutchinson of the Seventeenth Lyran Regulars.
Patrick noted Kathy looked as uncomfortable as he. “The General of Armies retains control over the Clan Jade Falcon and Clan Wolf fronts. Generals Artur Von Danzuch of Kaumberg, Kimberly Page of Skye, and myself will coordinate the fight against the Stone Spirits.â€
Many within the room nodded, but he noted they still didn’t like it. “Hauptmann-General Kathy Parks,†he nodded in Kathy’s direction, “of the Third Royal Guards RCT will command our ground forces during our counter-assault into Triesting,†he began the actual briefing.
Two hours later, as the other officers left the room, he glanced at Kathy. Only when they were alone did he speak. “Do you think we can trust her,†he asked.
Hauptmann-General Kathy Parks nodded to him. “I believe so. She led her militia battalion in taking off from Champadanga just as reinforcements from Kaumberg arrived in system. Even now, they’re in the middle the Spirits Occupation Zone at Krung Thep. If Kelly Varnay was anything like her father, why would she put herself in her current position? Sir,†she answered him.
“She acted contrary to her orders, Kathy,†he replied.
“Her battalion is the new militia prototype, sir,†the older officer replied. “They don’t hold onto territory. They help support other combat units,†she reminded him. “She is only doing what is expected of her new unit, I believe, she’s trying to hurt the Stone Spirits we need her hurting them.â€
Patrick visibly sighed. “She gets a pass then,†he gruffly acknowledged before turning to the matter at hand. “What about the three Light Combat Teams Loxley, Lancaster, and York are providing for this op?â€
“I believe they are hoping to gain political prestige, and funding, in the Estates General, sir, but that isn’t my call. And quite frankly, sir, we need those three units, what with the Seventeenth Lyran Regulars remaining here while my Third Royal Guards RCT is being deployed?â€
Patrick nodded to himself, having thought much the same thing, what with the recent arrival of the First LCT at Baryshevo. “What about General Maria Marik-Johns and the task-force she has gathered on Baryshevo?â€
He noted Kathy was deep in thought. “The Dismal Disinherited lost a third of its combat forces in the Stone Spirits first wave. The Obsidian Lancers Brigade been deployed there since their mishandling of Lost as a result they’ve maintained much of their strength. The other units on planet, excepting the First LCT from Loxley, all were forced to retreat from the Stone Spirit advance. General Marik-Johns reported all the forces she gathered at Baryshevo are looking to take the fight to the Spirits. I say we trust her.â€
“Trusting the word of a merc beyond their contract isn’t something the Lyran Commonwealth should do,†he admonished her.
“Then don’t, sir,†she replied back. “But at the end of the day, we need those mercs she has gathered at Baryshevo. You and I both know this, sir.â€
“I know, Kathy. I know,†he gruffly answered her. Both knew the forces the Dismal Disinherited had gathered around them at Baryshevo were realistically the only forces the Lyrans had remaining as a reserve that could realistically take the fight to the renegade Spirits.
Battle-line, Second Genyosha Regiment
Kazanka, Raven Alliance
Periphery
14th December 3106
Despite the Ravens and Nova Cats pushing the Draconis Combine Mustered Society to breaking point the ISF had identified a weakness in the Raven lines a pocket of eight worlds that had the lightest of defences. With several support regiments the Second Genyosha was leading the attack targeting the most significant Battle formation the elite One Hundredth Raven Battle Cluster on Kazanka. Chu-sa Asima Marphissa turned her eighty ton Hatamoto-Suma BattleMech as the Ravens approached her position “the Ravens will fight us until they fall. They know that we have identified a weak spot in their defences. Our navy will take care of the space above us. Our duty is here where it has always been taking the ground and holding it.†She said lining up an incoming Snow Raven Pouncer OmniMech pulling her main trigger she fired a gauss rifle slot which surprisingly went wide of the enemy Mech as it kept running in engaging her with paired particle cannons. “You should have stayed back my friend†she said watching the range tick down as the particle cannons hit her Mech for a second time “my turn†she said pulling the second trigger sending forty medium range missiles, a medium laser and the gauss rifle into the incoming OmniMech. This time the gauss slug connected with the Pouncer’s left shoulder moments before the forty missiles coated the enemy OmniMech in firey explosions. The massive armour loss knocked the Pouncer to the ground where it was vulnerable to a second salvo of weapons from her BattleMech.
Across the battle-line Asima could see her regiment was fully engaged with the One Hundredth Battle Cluster “push them back!†She commanded switching her focus to a pair of fast moving Cizin Hovercraft which were trying to engage her Mech with their turreted lasers. As they approached Asima laid down another barrage of forty medium range missiles coating the area with fire. One of the Cizin’s took several hits from the missiles but continued forwards firing its lasers and short range missiles into Asima’s BattleMech. As armour was burned and blasted from the eighty ton chassis Asima continued to step backwards firing the gauss rifle and missiles as quickly as they would reload. One of the gauss slugs went straight through the cockpit of one of the hovercraft finishing off the vehicle while a leaping Black Hawk KU came crashing down on the second crushing it under the sixty ton BattleMech. “You have my thanks Command Four†she said deciding not to hold the warriors unrequested assistance against him as a wave of missiles bombarded the area. “Forward†she commanded moving her assault Mech forwards along side her Mech the Black Hawk KU, an Orion, Dragon and Mauler all moved forward against the Snow Raven forces.
Along their lines vehicles and BattleMechs of the Genyosha supported by Battle Armour and infantry continued to push the Snow Ravens back metre-by-metre. While from above aerospace fighters dived through the atmosphere and began launching straffing and bombing attacks on their targets as word was passed along that the Snow Raven’s WarShip had been destroyed by DCMS naval forces and that they now had air superiority. Within six days the planet was held by the Genyosha along with Zlatousi, Milligan’s World, Quantraine, Bad News, Rashaven, Brasha, Coraines and Cerberus as Outworlds Alliance militia and second-line Snow Raven forces fell to the Draconis Combine’s advance.
Bridge, LCS Adam Steiner
Triesting, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth, Inner Sphere
21st December, 3106
Patrick Doyle gripped the arm rests of his chair as the LCS Adam Steiner shook violently as it was again hit by Naval Autocannon rounds from the tag team of the two Stone Spirit destroyers. They had finally taken out the Vincent a few minutes earlier with a broadside, seemingly crippling the ship that now sat at their bow. Further in the system, he knew the Coventry-class corvette LCS Storm Watch was being hounded by Stone Spirit DropShips and aerospace fighters.
The plan was working. When the LCS Adam Steiner and LCS Storm Watch entered the system, they were met with a surprising sight of Starliner One in orbit. The nearly unarmed Sovetskii Soyuz, which had been missing for years after a suspected miss-jump and its four DropShips immediately, began to run, and he allowed the LCS Adam Steiner and LCS Storm Watch to give chase.
And then the Spirits warship star from Etiler had arrived. They had sprung his trap and now they only had to hold until the LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood’s arrival. Unfortunately, he had not expected the Spirits having much aerospace support and his two warships were now in the fight for their lives while they awaited their sister ship to arrive in some ways Admiral Doyle wished he’d been able to free up one of the Mjolnir-class Battle-cruisers for this mission.
“Radiation spike!†called out the female ensign from behind him manning the tactical terminal. “IFF confirms. It is the LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood, Admiral.â€
“Good!†he called out as his ship shook. Now they only had to wait until the Hood could get into position.
“Enemy aerospace fighters have changed their attack vectors!†the ensign from earlier replied confused.
Change their attack vectors, why in the hell- The thought died as he looked down at his command screen. Typing a few buttons, he paled. “Full power to the engines! Start barrel rolling!†he yelled out to the pilot. “Guns! I need flak yesterday!â€
Moments later, he felt the Hyperion underneath him began to roll, but he knew it was too little too late, as the Spirit aerospace fighters began their concentrated attack on the bridge and engines of the LCS Adam Steiner, all while the Bloodhorn, the crippled Vincent, began lighting its engines as it charged the Hyperion-class heavy cruiser.
“Pilot! Change course to minus seven three now!†Patrick yelled out.
“I can’t heavy damage to forward maneuvering thrusters!†was the pilot’s panicked answer.
“Damnit!†Patrick replied before hitting a button on his command screen. “All hands, brace for impact! I repeat! All hands brace for impact!†he announced over the intercom, panic in his voice. “Don’t jump, don’t jump†he whispered as the other ship closed if either ship activated their jump drives now the two ships would be instantly destroyed. As he waited what felt like an eternity he thought of his wife Jessica Steiner and their children and prayed they had a long, beautiful life.
Moments later, the bridge was rocked, as the LCS Adam Steiner barreled into the Bloodhorn. The once proud Lyran warship immediately began tumbling, as Patrick felt the ship lose power, becoming pitch black.
“We’re alive…†he whispered his thanks trying to look around in the micro-gravity. “Headcount people!†Patrick yelled out. Slowly, but surely, his bridge crew began calling in. Within moments, many had flash flights. Within minutes, they finally had established radio connection with much of the crew the emergency bulkheads had closed at the forward areas of the ship saving them all from explosive decompression unfortunately almost half of the crew had been killed in the battle and subsequent collision.
Even as they tried to bring the Adam Steiner under control, which kept his mind occupied, it scared him to be out of the fight not knowing what was going on outside the WarShip. Three full days in near total blackness later, with only life support working, an Overlord-class DropShip finally docked with the LCS Adam Steiner connecting to the WarShip’s primary cargo bay.
The Spirits had cut their losses and ran from the system, leaving behind the near-wrecked LCS Adam Steiner and the heavily-damaged LCS Storm Watch with the recently arrived LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood.
Arcturus
Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
25th December 3106
All across Lyran space and deep into the Inner Sphere, the haggard image of Patrick Doyle is sent out, relaying the hard-fought victory at Triesting and the beginning of Operation: Christmas Present, as the Lyrans launch a concerted counterattack to force back the Stone Spirits. Hauptmann-General Kathy Parks leads the Third Royal Guards RCT against the two Stone Spirit clusters now stuck on Triesting, while the Second and Fifth LCT’s hit Kelang. The Third LCT, assisted by a battalion from both the Eleventh Commonwealth Guards and the Fifteenth Lyran Guards RCT, removes two Stone Siprit clusters from Etiler.
Meanwhile, General Maria Marik-Johns of the Dismal Disinherited leads the Dismal Disinherited and the First LCT to Sappir attacking two Stone Spirits clusters there, defeating both, but further mauling her own command. On Krung Thep, the Obsidian Lancers Brigade, supported by smaller mercenary units, link up with the Kaumberg Militia Rapid Response Unit, liberating the world from an over-strengthened second-line Stone Spirit cluster.
The Lyran Commonwealth had weathered the Stone Spirit blitz, but at great cost. One warship lost, another adrift but salvageable, and another three needing extensive yard time. On the ground, the cost is further compounded by heavy losses to both their own units and supporting mercenary forces. While only three theatre militia combat teams were lost in the fighting, many Lyran units were nearly destroyed. It will be a long while before they are rebuilt.
Oporto, Stone Spirit Occupation Zone
Periphery
31st December 3106
Star Admiral Malcolm Lynn groggily woke up, finding himself looking up at the blackened ceiling of the RCS Resolute’s bridge. Smoke invaded his nostrils. Coughing, he forced himself up and immediately regretted it. His right arm and shoulder burnt from second and third degree burns and he was fairly sure he had multiple broken bones. Looking across the bridge, he could see some of the bridge crew rouse themselves to help others or assume their standard positions.
“Report,†he growled out as he was helped up by a female Technician, who herself had been injured, juding by the blood on her head and how she kept her left hand close to her.
“We took a kamikaze strike by a DropShip an Overlord-C I think, Star Admiral,†she responded.
He was shocked they were all still alive, though careful not to show it. He nodded to her before looking to where another Technician had pushed himself over to man the tactical console. David, the Warrior manning it before the explosion, floated nearby, dead. The Technician took a moment to study what he was looking at, taking a few seconds longer then what Malcolm would have liked, but it was acceptable under the circumstances, for the man was not a trained Warrior.
“The Stone Spirit warships are making their escape under heavy fire from our Titans and fighters,†he supplied at last. “The RCS Rook is nowhere on the screen, I don't think they jumped, while the RCS Mandrill Provider is dead in the water.â€
“Damn stravag dogs!†Malcolm cursed out loud before turning to the Technician manning damage control. “Tom, how soon can we get back in the fight?â€
“Doubtful, Star Admiral,†the aerospace phenotype Technician reported. “Multiple decks are reporting severe heavy damage and Engineering reports massive power failures across nearly all our starboard weaponry.â€
Malcolm sighed. The attack was meant to damage or destroy the Stone Spirits remaining heavy warships. They had failed, all courtesy of a well-placed kamikaze strike.
“Order our Titans to end their pursuit and begin recovery operations,†he ordered. “Comms, advise all units we failed in neutralizing the Stone Spirits heavy warships and to be on the lookout.â€
“Aff, Star Admiral,†the young Collection freeborn manning the comm station answered back.
“Star Admiral,†Tom caught Malcolm’s attention. “I think you need to see this.â€
Malcolm glanced at him confusedly, before pushing over to Tom’s station. He growled as he brushed his injured arm against Tom, but looked down at the screen, only to see something that would haunt him to the rest of his days.
“How are we not dead?†Malcolm hissed at Tom, who could only shrug. The Stone Spirit DropShip had crashed directly into the RCS Resolute’s cargo bay holding the vessel’s L-F battery and most of its reserve ballistics and missiles.
His fellow Clan member could only shake his head, as both continued to eye the unbelievable damage the RCS Resolute had survived.
While the Rim Collection’s attempt to capture or destroy the Stone Spirit’s two heavy warships at Oporto ended in failure, their aggressive attack into former Lyran space was not. In the next couple days, the Collection successfully takes the worlds of Oporto, Edmine and Brank from the Stone Spirits, yet they take heavy losses in doing so. With heavy damage done to the Stone Spirits by the Lyrans at Triesting, the renegade clan forces choose to withdraw from the system when the RCS Firestorm arrives. The former Starliner One, unable to retreat so due to battle damage, surrenders itself and the Stone Spirit cluster it is carrying. With no hope to escape, the Stone Spirit cluster on the ground also elects to surrender, hoping to remain Warriors within the Collection. By January 4th, the New Year’s Eve Offensive, as the Collection calls it, final comes to an end.
-
After a little distraction in the Homeworlds it's time to take this timeline forward again.
My thanks to marauder648 for the Jade Falcon part at the bottom. It's gone through a little changes since the initial work but it wouldn't be there with the help.
Also if anyone wants a superb looking map of this timeline (instead of my paint job) click on the link in Vition2's signature and you'll see where this timeline is at the start of 3107. Enjoy!!
3107
Interrogation Cell
Babylon, Society Enclave 14
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
1st January 3107
A cross from the large dark elemental connected with the right of Star Captain Alexander’s face knocking the MechWarrior to the left side of the chair he was tied to. At the best of times the MechWarrior would have been hard pressed to fight off an Elemental but he’d give it a go. For now stripped naked and tied to a chair he had no chance. The warrior looked up at the big warrior but the punch never came instead the red haired woman stepped forward “I am Scientist Teresa Middleton†she said her voice deep and seductive. Through his one good eye Alexander could see she was a beautiful woman.
“I am Alex and I am happy to meet you Scientist Teresa†Alexander replied intentionally omitting her made-up surname. As expected a punch from the dark elemental warrior followed knocking him to the side of his chair again. “Big man when I get out of this chair you are a dead man.â€
“Where is your base of operations? Star Captain Alexander†she said using his rank and full name to show she knew more about him.
“I am sorry but you see I am not a Star Captain any more I’m… I am a pirate.†Unsurprisingly another punch followed.
“A pirate that can’t force himself to use one little contraction I think not, Star Captain Alexander, I think you are part of Clan…â€
“DON’T YOU DARE SAY THEIR NAME YOU DON’T HAVE THE RIGHT!†He screamed at the young woman his anger boiling over; the time was about right for the outburst if he died now it wouldn’t matter.
“So you can use contractions well done†she said nodding to the elemental who punched him again. As Alex recovered from the punch he could sense the big warrior was away to punch him again but the woman shouted out “Stop!†She said kneeling down in front of him.
“You are wearing a bit too much for that†he said winking his good eye but the Scientist ignored him
“What is that?†she demanded pointing at where his appendix had once been and now a red light blinked out and in.
“Not a clue must have been something I ate†he replied the Scientist stood up and turned to the elemental “I want that object but I want him alive you understand alive if not I’ll kill you myself.†The elemental wordlessly nodded drawing a sharp knife from his belt.
“You know if you had not taken away half his brain to bulk…†Alex began as the dark elemental sliced open his chest he screamed followed by another scream as the big man dug unto the wound looking for the object “…bulk up his body you won’t have to worry about him killing me!†He screamed again as the elemental pulled the object from his body leaving the wound open to bleed the big warrior handed Scientist Teresa the object and then stood against the wall again.
Suddenly the building shook as it was hit with an explosion the Scientist visibly paled “you know I do know what that was…†he said as another explosion rocked the building “it’s a tracking device†he said taunting the Scientist as her eyes darted between Teresa and Alex as another explosion and the sound of gunfire was heard. “What’s wrong never been this close to the fighting?†He said continuing to taunt her as bullets flew through the cell walls.
“They are insane they will kill you before they rescue you!†She said “and if they don’t I will kill you.â€
“I don’t care there are at least a hundred clansmen at this facility if one or two of us die for the cause who cares?†He asked taunting her “the flag of Kerensky will fly again over these worlds!â€
“Kill him now†she commanded the Elemental but the big warrior did not move “KILL HIM NOW!†She screamed but instead of reacting to her command the dark warrior slid down the wall leaving a trail of blood as he fell four bullet holes had pierced the wall doing enough damage to kill the elemental but failing to travel all the way through his body.
“Seems like you’ll have to get your hands dirty†he taunted her coughing up some blood as more explosions and gunfire could be heard. Before Scientist Teresa Middleton could take a single step the door flung open behind her slamming her in the back and forcing her across the room. A warrior dressed in clan infantry fatigues, the insignia long worn away, stepped into the room holding a large assault rifle. He looked at Alex’s form on the chair turned aimed his weapon and opened fire with several salvos into Teresa’s fallen form the infantry man then fired several into the fallen Elemental. “Overkill?â€
“You can never kill one of them enough†the warrior said Alex smiled hearing the man’s voice.
“Mike, what the hell are you doing here on the ground?â€
“The whole cluster is here along with transports to get everyone off the ground and the Belisarius is in orbit holding off the Society’s aero assets.†He said proudly cutting the ropes holding Alex down pulling the naked injured MechWarrior to his feet.
“How many signals were active?†He asked Mike knew that Alex was asking about his own unit now. Of the fifteen MechWarriors who had volunteered to go on this one-way mission how many were still alive.
“We detected six signals which is why we knew this was the place†Mike explained helping him into the corridor Alex could see many other prisoners being helped out of their cells by Clan infantry.â€
“How many are still active?†He asked knowing that when detected the warriors lifespans would have shortened quickly.
“Three, you Jane and Elrickâ€
“That old son-of-a-bitch is still alive†he wheezed as Mike helped him along the corridor “so after all of this I am still going to have to put up with that solahma?â€
“I can put you back in your cell?†Mike half joked as they continued to move there was continued explosions and gun fire but it came from outside. “You wouldn’t think you have just been rescued from certain death or worse.†He said as they moved
“True, where from here?â€
“You’re going into a transport with the rest of the prisoners, up to the Belisarius, onto Fasa and then home.†Mike said “a few of us are staying on Babylon to keep the rebellion going here.†He said seeing Alex’s surprise “there’s still some Clan sympathizers on this planet.â€
“Have you got trackers?†He asked wondering if the Khan had ordered another operation.
“No, after today we expect the Society to scan all their prisoners or execute them so no more jobs like this. We’ve got a couple more surprises for them†Mike said as they got outside the cold winter air biting at Alex’s uncovered flesh two unarmed clansmen rushed over with a cover and took Alex off Mike helping him over towards the hovercraft. “You take care son!†Mike shouted after the younger warrior they weren’t blood related but Mike had always seen Alex as the closest thing to a real son.
“I will be back. I will bring the sons of Kerensky back to Babylon!†He called back as he was bundled into the hovercraft. Quickly the hovercraft doors closed and it along with half a dozen hovercraft shot off into the night towards their DropShip.
“This is Star Colonel Mike Lassenem to all members of the Fourteenth mount up it is time we showed these Scientists how true warriors fight battles!†Mike said slinging the rifle over his shoulder he took several steps and grabbed the hanging ladder from his Blood Asp’s cockpit and began to climb. The Clans may have left this planet but the battle for Babylon was just beginning.
Solaris Tri-Vid Services
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Independent System
5th January 3107
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen my name is Charles Kalban and welcome to Solaris VII. It’s been a little over a years since the Clans and Star League Defence Force decided that Solaris needed a new path.†The commentator said as a montage of images was shown of BattleMechs, vehicles and Battle Armour in SLDF and Ebon Guard colours were shown. “The decision for Solaris’ fate was taken out of the hands of the people instead the power of the gun chose our world’s future.†He said the commentator sounded slightly bitter about the choices that had been made “however our world could not continue the way it was heading†he said as the images changed showing the various riots that had plagued Solaris in recent years destroyed competitor BattleMechs intermingled with those of the Star League and various mercenary bands that had gotten involved. “We all expected life to change on Solaris VII but has it?†He asked as images were shown around Solaris City with people going about their business in various shots Clan BattleMechs bearing the crest of the Ebon Guard were shown.
“In short yes, and no, today you cannot walk down a street on Solaris without seeing units of the Ebon Guard or of the Solaris Defence Force but life continues and the games continue.†He said as the images changed from the streets of Solaris into the various stadiums of the the planet as the games continued “as always on Solaris old stars are extinguished each year and new stars rise. This is Solaris ladies and gentlemen the game world will never change. There is money to be earned, victories to be won and one elusive trophy to claim.†He said with the final image showing the Solaris Championship Title trophy which waited the victor of the Solaris Game Season.
Stormchaser (League Block II-class Destroyer)
Spirit, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
11th January 3107
After several years of service to the Illium Naval Engineering of Ionus the Shadow Guard Mercenary Regiment had finally allowed representatives of the company onboard the WarShip they had salvaged from the Spirit system. The ancient League Block II-class Destroyer had been almost completely stripped before the Shadow Guard had boarded the vessel and it was still not fully operational even after all the time. Colonel Tim Storm watched Admiral Michael Bonnan was he was led through the vessel by Captain Phillipe Van Dyke who was in command of the repairs to the vessel. “As you can see Admiral we have made all decks of the Stormchaser airtight. We have replaced all missing armour plate, stripped the facilities for the ancient DropShuttles, replaced the heat dispensation with modern double heat sink technology and replaced the conventional weapons of the original ship with modern versions of the weapons. Unfortunately because of our status and lack of expertise we have been unable to replace any of her missing capital weapons and her transit drive is completely inoperable.â€
“You have done very well Captain†the old Admiral said as they moved through the vessel “doing all of this with a couple of tugs and cargo DropShips is truly impressive work.†He said “she really deserves more.â€
“Which is why we have brought you in on this project†Tim Storm said from the back “Admiral we want to retain control over the Stormchaser but as you pointed out we need assistance in completing her repairs. We are willing to pay for your services in completing the repairs and for upgrades to the ship.â€
“Upgrades?†The Admiral asked turning towards the Colonel.
“On top of replacing her capital weapons there are two DropShip collars we wish to fit two additional collars. We wish to add a layer of anti-missile systems to her weapons array and bring her armour up to modern standards.â€
“All expensive propositions if the hull can handle it all.†Bonnan said glancing around the ship for a moment “you know Colonel these things were notorious for having power issues with the original array of weapons?â€
“Yes Admiral but the difference between the original League and modern WarShips is that originally the League was ahead of her time trying to stay in touch with the WarShips of the Terran Hegemony. Today you have a lot more experience with WarShips and the engineers of Illium are more than capable of bringing her up to a modern standard. Understand Admiral we have also had interest from Clipperton and Fletcher shipyards in taking the Stormchaser to the next level. Both shipyards want to study her and most likely add a new League Destroyer to their product list.†Storm said watching the Admiral’s reactions “my command have worked with Illium Engineering for quite some time now we want to deal with you but if you think this little project is beyond your current capabilities we are willing to approach other shipyards to bring this ship back to the greatness it once had.â€
“I think we can deal Colonel†Admiral Bonnan said “bring Stormchaser to Ionus and we will bring her back online.†He promised the Colonel who nodded his agreement. Tim Storm had a feeling that Bonnan would deal with them fairly but he also had plans to send a detachment of marines and aerospace fighter units with the ship; the Storm Guard would protect their investment.
Nova Cat Offensive
Raven Alliance, Periphery
17th January 3107
With the Draconis Combine pushing into the Raven Alliance the Snow Ravens had begun to reorganize their defences which the Nova Cat forces under saKhan Katrine Devalis instantly took advantage of striking the worlds of Tantalus, Falaknuma, Chi Rho, Lupine IV and Gonthorn. Each world falls to the Nova Cats in rapid Trials of Possession with the Snow Ravens putting up token resistance to the other Clan.
Khan Jana Pryde’s office
Ironhold Command
Incukalns, Jade Falcon OZ
22nd January 3107
.
Khan Jana Pryde looked at the report and quietly cursed. It had been a long year she had inherited a shattered Clan with the Falcon Tourman at its weakest point since the Refusal War. Many Trinaries had been reduced to binaries and two Galaxies were shattered shells which probably should have been folded into other units to give them some strength.
Whilst the quality of her troops was superb, all easily marking the much vaunted elite status, they were shattered and exhausted. The last year of peace had allowed them to rest and refit while slowly rebuilding but they still had a lot of work to do. Frontline troops were rotated back to shore up defences that had been left threadbare thin in the drive towards Arc Royal and Incukalns. She had to admit that the strike on Arc Royal had been bold and audacious and despite the losses, successful. The Mountain Wolves had been broken, fleeing as best they could alongside the equally tattered and shredded Kell Hounds. The slog around Incukalns had also wrought terrible damage to the Lyran military, and in truth both sides were swaying on their feet, battered, bruised but unbowed.
The labourers had done wonders at the huge underground SLDF facility that had made Incukalns such a prize, one the Lyrans had apparently utterly missed for centuries. With the geothermal power plant restored to working operation it meant the base would never run low on power and would never threaten the planet or her people, with this power the base opened up to full exploration they found the facility had been mothballed during EXODUS but not completely stripped. Instead the Jade Falcons had found several key components that only the Star League could manufacture had been removed and its hangars had their atmosphere purged with liquid nitrogen before being sealed. As the Clans had inherited the Star League’s technology it was a simple matter of using technology familiar to the Clans to bring the systems online and as a result of the cleaning the Mech’s and vehicles were all in near perfect condition and whilst they were by Clan standards utterly obsolete they were desperately needed by the shattered Falcon Tourman and perfect for garrison troops and had instantly been sent to shore up several units even some of the vehicles had been used by her people though most had been traded to the Sea Fox Clan.
On a huge holo-display Khan Pryde saw the much diminished Falcon holdings highlighted in bright green, her eyes drawn to the narrow salient around the Clan’s capital of Sudeten, the world and its vital factories and genetic repository surrounded by the golden brown of the Horses territory. She knew it was safe the Horses could go as far to closing that salient and still her Falcons would return to Sudeten none of the Clans had reverted to the Inner Sphere’s strategy of interdicting JumpShips.
Whilst the factories that had been captured on Arc Royal had been taken mostly intact they were still being brought up to speed and were for the moment producing Wolf designs simply to fill the gaping holes in the Tourman. Fortunately they were able to churn out the ‘Fire’ variant of the Ironhold Battle Armour and they were being shipped out as quickly as they could to the mauled Battle Armour forces replacing the old Elemental suits previously used by the Falcons.
Manpower was another problem that she had to contend with. The next Sibko’s were due to finish in the next four months but they only gave maybe a hundred and twenty or so MechWarriors and roughly the same in aerospace pilots and Elementals, not enough for the Clan’s needed. Oh it was an impressive figure but it got perhaps one Galaxy up to a fighting strength not below critical. Then it would be another eight months before the next Sibko graduated it wasn’t enough by then the Jade Falcon Clan and the Lyran Commonwealth would likely be in conflict once more she knew that the Jade Falcon warriors could not stand peace too long.
Khan Pryde’s eyes drifted to the Horses and she looked at a report, their attack into Lyran space had netted them very little, their lack of naval assets meant that they could not get their massive Tourman into action. It would take years before the Horses could build a navy powerful enough to strike at the Lyrans leading to a stalemate.
The Horses Trueborns, if they were of the same calibre as her own warriors would be smarting at the defeats and lack of action and general inability to strike back. It could be timely to declare a Harvest trial against the Horses and hopefully take up any warriors who wanted revenge for the humiliation they had suffered. Over the next year it would give her warriors a release from the lack of combat. Declaring such a Trial would have to be carefully done. Come across as too brash or too weak and they might well provoke the Horses into attacking the Falcons holdings. And in truth she knew that if they made a general assault it would cause far more damage to her Clan than she could allow.
At least there was some good news the Jade Falcon naval forces had been given a chance to withdraw from the front lines and be repaired. The Jade Aerie and Jade Eagle were acting as flagships for the cruiser groups whilst the Falcons Nest was in orbit over Incukalns, the Emerald Talon was being rotated back to Sudeten and the Turkina’s Might covered Arc Royal. All naval forces had explicit orders to NOT grant Safcon if a world they were over was attacked. Her Clan didn’t have the strength to stop an attacker any other way.
Whilst Ironhold Command was now rapidly becoming the centre of the Clan’s command and control and anti-DropShip weaponry was being fitted, they still needed more ground forces. Khan Jana Pryde had cut orders to increase the size of the Sibko’s as best they could, whilst she was looking at ways of getting Spheroids to fight for them. Conscription was obvious but it yielded unwilling ‘recruits’ and gave rise to the risk of unrest and revolt. Perhaps a loosening of restrictions on the Spheroids was in order, but she knew that she would face a challenge for such a decision. But if it cost her a Galaxy Commander then so be it.
‘At least we do not have so many mouths to feed and our worlds can feed our population without going to rationing’. That part was true, so many worlds traded to the Hell's Horses they had fewer mouths to feed and less space to cover. And with the people well fed they were happy. ‘Perhaps a…what is that term…ah yes ‘charm offensive’ is needed.’
Khan Pryde knew that her people were just as tired as her Warriors, and like them, they needed rest. An increase in food production, more readily available consumables at home increases to civil liberties could well do that and show the Spheroids that they were not a conquered people but part of the Clan now. A year left to rebuild, another year with factories running three shifts whilst quietly praying that the Sea Foxes did not take offence and hike their prices up. Careful management of their production and training, disciplined Galaxy and Cluster commanders was still needed and careful management of their Hell’s Horses allies and the Jade Falcon Clan would return to greatness.
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More from me, marauder648 (Raven) and James Tanaga (Mandrill). Both marauder and James Tanaga your contributions are as always most appreciated and add much to this AU.
I'll post the DropShip Cradle stats sometime soon possibly alone with the Behemoth variants
Skirmish
Prochnow Settlement, Devil’s Rock
Star League Protectorate
3rd February 3107
After weeks of observation things on Devil’s Rock had gone from bad to worse rapidly near the Prochnow Settlement for the SLDF observation teams. It had started early in the morning of the second when the Prochnow family supporting Bobby Winchester had come out firing. All at once they had opened fire on three of the SLDF’s observation posts and begun to move. Morgan Christifori’s unit had not been on duty when it had all kicked off but now they were in the thick of it with Morgan’s Penetrator standing in the centre of the SLDF line as they advanced towards the Prochnow family’s position. “Okay people if they are able to push through they will fall back to their settlements in the mountains and we’ll be stuck with them holed up there for the next few years.†Morgan said briefing the others under his command “High Command does not want a PR fiasco or a drawn out conflict so we are it…â€
“No PR fiasco! What do you call thirteen dead and double that injured?†Ralph asked angrily his ninety ton Mauler taking several steps forward it was the heaviest Mech they had.
“They don’t want to make things worse†Alex said his four Mechs and two other BattleMech lances were the immediate forces available while the First Devil’s Rock Regiment were holding the perimeter. The problem with the First was they didn’t know exactly which pilots still held loyalties to the criminal families of Devil’s Rock.
“What’s our orders boss?†Alex asked so far they had been held back from the action her light Cougar OmniMech was the smallest they had but it was built with Clan technology which gave it that little extra punch.
“Contain them and hopefully talk them down. Bobby Winchester surrenders today or we attack and force the surrender of the compound.â€
“Boss, we’ve seen over two hundred individuals go in and out of that settlement there could be a lot of collateral damage if we attack.†Adam warned his Barghest was a little lighter than Morgan’s Penetrator and was built on a quad chassis.
“We are not going to let that happen†Morgan said moving his BattleMech forward towards the Prochnow family’s position. The other three BattleMechs of the lance moved with him towards the criminal family on his sensors Morgan could see six BattleMechs of medium size or smaller and several armoured vehicles arrayed together surrounding several transports which probably carried the Prochnow civilians and valuables. “Alex when we get close I want you to probe the transports find out which one has people in it and which one has equipment.â€
“They will all have people in them†she point out thinking of the drivers.
“I know†Morgan admitted as they closed he switched communications channels “this is Captain Morgan Christifori of the Star League Defence Force you are ordered to surrender your munitions and Bobby Winchester to us immediately or face the consequences.â€
“Captain Christifori my name is Ruskova Prochnow I cannot and will not surrender all of our weapons if I did that my family would be vulnerable to a take over from other families. Mr Winchester is under contract as a hired gun with my family to turn him over would breach our contract with him making it an expensive proposition.†She said Morgan shook his head watching the Prochnow BattleMechs moving around in their formation they both knew that the Prochnow family had other “assets†in the mountains which would protect them. He saw a message flash up in the Penetrator’s cockpit from Alex identifying the transport which appeared to have the least living beings in the formation.
“The more trouble you cause the more it will cost you.†Morgan said switching channels “get read!†He commanded twisting the Pentrator’s torso towards the vehicle Alex had indicated triggering all six medium pulse lasers breaching the vehicle’s armour in multiple locations turning the vehicle into a fireball. Morgan detected several targeting systems on his BattleMech but he kept his large lasers down and off target and no further weapons were fired “Ruskova Prochnow†he called out on the general frequency.
“What kind of negotiation is this?†Prochnow shouted down the channel at Morgan he saw a Bushwacker BattleMech take several steps towards his Penetrator.
“I knew that vehicle had the least people in it†Morgan answered noticing on his display that Alex had indicated another he twisted the BattleMech’s torso to the right ignoring the closing Bushwacker “I know that this vehicle has few people in it as well.â€
“You will die before it can fall Christifori†another voice, this one male, said speaking up Morgan saw the Huron Warrior had leveled its weapons on his BattleMech.
“Shut up Winchester!†Prochnow called out “Christifori do not fireâ€
“Surrender the weapons and…†he began just as Bobby Winchester opened fire on the Penetrator as the Silver Bullet Gauss Rifle and Pulse laser flared to life cutting into the Penetrator’s armour savaging the right hand side of Morgan’s Mech. Christifori twisted the torso of the Penetrator towards the Huron Warrior and saw that the other Prochnow BattleMechs had not fired “guys hold fire cover Prochnow†he commanded “I have Winchester†he said firing both extended-range large lasers one connecting with the Huron Warrior’s left arm the other going wide. The renegade MechWarrior Winchester suddenly accelerated his BattleMech forward trying to escape.
“Boss, I’m faster†Alex called out her Mech was also fifteen tons lighter than Winchester’s but Morgan already had ideas scanning the buildings around him.
“And I have options†he said launching the Penetrator into the air jumping up onto a nearby building. The Penetrator’s legs flexing as the jump jets cut out and the seventy-five ton BattleMech came to rest on top of a nearby building. Immediately Morgan sighted Winchester’s BattleMech and triggered both large lasers targeting the back of the Huron Warrior’s left leg one laser burned into the armour while the other blew out the Mech’s knee actuator. The fifty ton BattleMech stumbled and fell forwards. Morgan jumped his BattleMech off the building towards the fallen medium Mech marching forwards keeping his guns on the Huron Warrior as it tried to regain its footing. “Stay down†Morgan ordered firing his lasers over the downed Mech instead of trying to stand the warrior forced the Mech into a roll turning it onto its back Morgan knew from experience that it wasn’t a good thing to do to a Mech as armour plate grated against the ground. Moments later the Huron Warriors two arm mounted weapons opened up on Morgan’s BattleMech the large pulse laser burning over the heavy Mech’s torso while the Silver Bullet Gauss slugs flew over the Penetrators right shoulder. Morgan continued to walk towards the downed BattleMech as a second salvo of pulse laser blasts and another cluster shot of silver bullet shots flew into his BattleMech this time enough was enough and Morgan retaliated targeting the right arm with both large lasers burning through the arm at the shoulder. Taking several steps closer he twisted the BattleMech’s torso and fired both lasers again this time into the left arm damaging several of the actuators in the arm. “Enough is enough†he said looking down at the now disabled BattleMech “Adam move up dismount and take Winchester into custody.†He commanded as the Barghest moved forwards almost at the same time the Prochnow family moved as one charging off to the right.
“We’ve got a breach†Ralph reported watching the Prochnow forces moving away from the two SLDF Mechs but holding their fire.
“Don’t fire†Morgan commanded “we are too spread out to contain them ourselves. Charlie One to Delta and Echo units Prochnow family units heading east. We have Winchester in custody.†He said “Ralph, Alex shadow them if Charlie and Echo units move in you are cleared to support their actions but don’t try and secure yourselves.†He said from both sides SLDF lances were moving in each with a mix of medium and heavy units with the firepower of eight BattleMechs in front of them and two BattleMechs following the Prochnow family agreed to surrender their remaining forces to the SLDF.
Over the next couple of days charges were placed against several of the members of the Prochnow family for the deaths at the observation posts. Bobby Winchester and his Huron Warrior were taken into custody by the SLDF with Winchester himself being extradited to Saffel to face charges for Duke Dean Singer’s murder. With a little but of convincing their commanders allowed the unit to keep Winchester’s BattleMech which replaced Alex’s Cougar and brought her Mech in line with the rest of the lance with a Clan laser and the electronics from the Cougar replacing the large pulse laser on the Huron Warrior.
Trial of Possession
Tukayyid System
Clan Space Inner Sphere
11th February 3107
Warrior Faridah Fire Mandrill kept her Parthia-Prime OmniFighter on the tail of her opponent, a Jade Falcon Scytha, continuing to keep up the fire from the Extended-Range Medium Lasers in her fighter’s nose and wings. The Parthia, like the forty-five ton Sarmatia and one hundred ton Hun OmniFighters her Clan was deploying in this Trial of Possession were designed to keep Fire Mandrill aerospace assets up to date. One thing the Fire Mandrills were trying to keep under wraps was that the fighters involved in this trial made up the majority of the produced OmniFighters they made a nice show and appeared to be quite effective. And so far, Faridah could see all three designs were doing just that. One on one, the three newer OmniFighters was showing themselves superior to their Jade Falcon opponents.
Yet to be a part of this trial, Star Captain Eduard Wirth had been forced to bid only Alpha and Beta stars of their trinary against the full Jade Falcon trinary they were battling against. Three against two were unfavorable odds at the best of times. Against the Jade Falcons, it made the Trial of Possession for the newly built York in Tukayyid’s orbit had become far more difficult.
Yet she smiled ferally as her opponent’s Scytha OmniFighter lose control and then quickly exploded as she arched portside, allowing her to miss the Scytha’s wreckage. As she awaited her next opponent, she took a glance at her radar and quickly whistled. From her vantage point, she could see only one of the four Sarmatia’s still running, badly damaged at that. Yet only three of the ten Parthia OmniFighters her Clan fielded in the fight had so far been lost and while all the rest, her own included, suffering some damage, only two she knew were combat ineffective. What impressed her most was the fact the four one hundred ton Hun OmniFighters her Clan brought to the Trial of Possession were effectively taking on all comers from Clan Jade Falcon. All four were badly damaged, but continuing to destroy anything in their way.
“Beta 4-2, redeploy with Point Beta-2 and follower Beta 2-1’s orders, quiaff?†the voice of Star Commander Louis Fire Mandrill erupted into her radio.
“Aff,†she radioed back as she arced her Parthia to starboard, intent through the black space battlefield to where Beta 2’s two Parthia OmniFighters flew. A few moments later, as she joined the formation, she saw both 70-ton OmniFighters were badly damaged and grimaced. It meant she would have to pick up the slack for them should fighting continue.
Slowly but surely the other duels slowly ended and the Fire Mandrills slowly coalesced around Beta 2 Faridah could see they had lost two further Parthia OmniFighters and one of the 100-ton Huns. Of the eleven remaining OmniFighters the Mandrills still fielded, she knew only four were only moderately damaged, her own included.
They didn’t wait long, as the third and final Jade Falcon star finally arrived onto the battlefield. Faridah noted absently more and more aerospace assets belonging to other Clans had formed around the outside of the assigned battlefield. “Let them watch†the voice of Point Commander Alec came into her speakers. “Soon enough, victory will be ours.â€
She nodded, agreeing with the slightly older pilot. “Aff,†she radioed back as both the Jade Falcons and her clan began to dance in space. Soon, her next opponent became clear.
A new, voice came into her radio, as a pristine Visigoth belonging to her Jade Falcon opponent came upon her wing. “Warrior Clara Jade Falcon to Fire Mandrill Beta 4-2. You are to be my opponent.â€
“And you mine,†Faridah agreed in her radio. “Let us take our duel to the sidelines, less we initiate a brawl between our two Clans, quiaff?†she radioed back a moment later.
“Aff,†she heard Clara radio to her. A moment later, both fighters broke off from the main battle and sprinted to the invisible ventral sideline that marked the boundary of where the battle was located. Fardidah idly noted the other duels were doing the same and nodded. Ever since her Clan was welcomed to Tukayyid and again accepted as an Inner Sphere Clan, the Fire Mandrills had slowly become known to the others for matching their fellow Clan’s zellbrigen and so while their Trials were as intense as any other, brawls were uncommon. The fact the Mandrills were ordered to keep from being seen as the initiator by their Khans less the entire Clan become dezgra helped, for what true Warrior, nay Clansmen, would put their Clan at risk?
Just as they reached the ventral boundary, she noted her Jade Falcon opponent break from her port side and begin a long circle. After turning her own Parthia around to face her opponent and recheck her equipment she piped into her radio. “Let our duel begin. Seyla!â€
“Seyla!†Clara announced over her radio and soon both OmniFighters begin to charge against one another.
Faridah noted indicators showing her Parthia had been painted with a missile lock. “Amateur,†she growled out, as she saw missiles coming from her opponent. Just as they were about to hit her Parthia, she slammed the thrust control down as she pivoted to the ventral side and was slammed back into her seat, as her OmniFighter pushed itself to just a hair over 5.5 G’s of thrust, its maximum speed. Though she felt her fighter get hit twice, she calmly noted most of the missiles had missed.
All too soon, she felt laser fire begin to hit her Parthia and noted Clara was matching her step by step. When she would pivot to the port, her opponent would as well. To the starboard, she would be on her tail starboard. She tried breaking and was surprised her opponent met her break with her own. She started to panic as she finally realized her opponent was well versed in dog fighting. “Not an amateur, monkey,†her opponent snarled back over the radio.
Faridah was too busy fighting for her life now, as the Parthia’s controls became non-responsive. Suddenly, she felt the ejector seat launch herself into space.
“Well fought, monkey. If you perhaps live, I will gladly take you as my bondswoman,†she heard her opponent over the radio as she watched the undamaged Visigoth launch itself back into the battlefield. Soon, an Ebon Guard shuttle had arrived, finding her from her homing beacon and snatched her up from the black space.
Within the shuttle she was gladdened to see many of her fellow Mandrills, but disheartened as well, for it meant the battle was not going well for her Clan. Three hours later, she learnt of the fate of the Trial of Possession, courtesy of the Ebon Guard pilot piloting the shuttle. Her Clan had won, but at a heavy price. Only two Parthias and a Hun had survived to the end of the Trial. The Falcons even less, a single Visigoth. And while the Mandrills suffered primarily in the loss of seventeen new OmniFighters, only one pilot was killed. The Falcons lost nearly an entire trinary of OmniFighters and Warriors.
It gnarled at her the day after the Trial when she finally met the pilot of the lone surviving Jade Falcon Visigoth. It was Clara, her opponent from the Trial of Possession. And what made it worst? She was her new Point Commander. Terrific, Faridah Fire Mandrill thought sarcastically to herself as she and her trinary began to study the Trial of Possession they had won the day earlier.
Meeting Room, Subtlety (McKenna MOD)
Galatea System, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
16th February 3107
Captain William Leroy-Deitrich had only returned to the Subtlety a few days before and already he his ship had been approached by four DropShip commanders. “Welcome onboard the Subtlety†he said looking at the four DropShip commanders sat around the table beside him inside one of the gravity decks. One the wall a large screen mimicked a viewport showing the massive Galatea Station off the Subtlety’s port bow.
“Thank you Captain a very impressive ship you have here.â€
“Yes it is†Leroy-Deitrich said “you requested this meeting?â€
“Affirmative, I am Liam Pearson†one of the DropShip captains said speaking up he was the oldest of the four captains and appeared to be the one in charge. “We four†he said indicating to himself and the two others “have formed what we believe is a unique Mercenary Command. As you may be aware we have two Behemoths, a single Mule and a single Octopus-class Tug we specialize in salvage and repair work.â€
“An admirable task†Leroy-Dietrich admitted “but how does it concern my ship? We work to improve naval and aerospace fighter combat.â€
“Yes but your ship is not at one hundred percent†another of the captains said “you have several compartments exposed to space, parts of your vessel you cannot use, we believe we can help you with that.â€
“The compartments we cannot access are minor†Leroy-Dietrich said trying to pass off that the damage did not restrict the Subtlety’s capabilities. In fact in some ways they did there were several power and data lines that had to be routed around the vessel to avoid damaged areas because putting them through the exposed sections would make minor repairs a major undertaking.
“Even then the damage does not look good†Pearson said speaking up “although you have stated your intention is for your vessel to remain in this system if you did ever decide to move the damage already done to this craft shows that it can be damaged. That there are weakened sections in its armour plating†he pointed out “we can repair that. We could also assist you in bringing back online some of the weapons that are currently offline or adding additional capabilities that this ship lacks such as missile defence systems.†He suggested again it was an interesting proposal but of course it all came down to cost.
“How much?†He decided to ask the captains straight out “we are a school we cannot afford massive rates for repairs.†He admitted it was one of the reasons that he hadn’t booked a private berth in one of the Inner Sphere’s shipyards to make the repairs everything Subtlety made went back into its school improving their capabilities for the next years classes.
“We can come up with a reasonable arrangement†Pearson said glancing at the others who nodded “we have no interest in bankrupting your school Captain. Instead we would be content with you covering the costs of the parts needed to repair your vessel, access to the facilities on board your ship during our crews downtime and a public announcement from the Subtlety Training College that you were placing the repairs of your ship in the hands of our crew.â€
“Not too much then†Leroy-Dietrich joked in all honesty it was not a huge cost the parts would be reasonably priced if they went to the right people. Access to the Subtlety’s facilities could be controlled by the ship’s on board security complement and these people did deserve credit for their work. “And who should I say is conducting these repairs?â€
“We are The Repair Group†Pearson said simply Leroy-Dietrich suppressed a smile for he guessed that it wouldn’t be as simple a job as the group’s name. The next day Captain William Dietrich hired time on the Galatea Station’s HPG and broadcast a message on the Interstellar Network stating that the Subtlety would be remaining in business while repairs were done to the ship by The Repair Group who had accepted a contract to enhance the WarShip’s capabilities. At the same time The Repair Group’s DropShips had already begun to move into position. According to Captain Pearson the two Behemoths had been modified with what the group called a “DropShip Cradle†which was essentially an extendable repair lattice like that seen on a larger YardShip. One Behemoth, known as Ratchet, approached from the port side the DropShip cradle opened like a massive mouth with a framework extending along the sides of the McKenna while the DropShip itself clamped onto the WarShip. On the starboard side the other Behemoth-class vessel, known as Driver, did the same providing a framework for the workers to use while they repaired the vessel. With the two Behemoth’s attached the Octopus-class Tug, named Spanner, was able to move along the hull assisting engineers and providing them with the heavy lift gear needed to move some of the pieces into position and removing pieces that were not required. The vessel of the quartet of DropShips was the Mule-class vessel, known as Foreman, it served in two purposes firstly it was where the three repair DropShips coordinated their work through, secondly it acted as The Repair Groups cargo runner with the ship often leaving to get more supplies then returning them to other ships. During this repair operation the Subtlety was unable to use its engines and was moved entirely by the Octopus-class Tug however it was receiving much needed maintenance and the Galatea system was a friendly one so Captain Leroy-Dietrich did not make a big fuss about it. With their teams doing such public work The Repair Group was getting some much needed publicity.
Snow Raven (Snow Raven Battleship)
Jump Point, Kazanka
Raven Alliance
23rd February 3107
The DCS Aurora Lance was burning, listing and down by the bow, her RCS thrusters firing to prevent her from rolling fully as her two remaining engines pulsed and burbled brief flashes of fusion fire in answer to jumbled commands from the ships computer.
Her once pristine passageways were now darkened, lit only by the flashes of the emergency and alert lights that pulsed amber and crimson.
“My Khan the vessel is secure, the Combine sailors fought hard but we have secured the magazines, engine room and bridge.â€
“Very well. Open the ships outer cargo bays and open all hatches, purge the air and any survivors.â€
“Aff my Khan!†The warrior replied without hesitation despite the brutality of the order.
Aboard the CSR Snow Raven Khan Vir Sukhanov looked out of the battleship’s bridge at the crippled cruiser that had fallen to the boarding action launched by his ship. In the distance there was a slowly expanding ball of debris and chunks of metal that had once been the DCS Makinami, the destroyer had been obliterated in the opening moments of the engagement as the Raven’s Fleet Command Star had jumped in on top of them.
Of course their real prize was not here, the DCS Shiro Kurita and her escorts had withdrawn into Combine space to refuel and replenish their aerospace arm after taking heavy casualties taking Alliance worlds.
This operation was supposed to have netted or destroyed an Omi Kurita class Carrier, but instead they had to settle for a heavy cruiser that had refused to surrender. Even when her hull and interior was crawling with Elementals and Mech’s from the Snow Raven and her hull pierced by gunfire she kept firing. The CSR Hunter had paid for that defiance the destroyer’s armour had been breached in several locations and it was all but lost the Khan had already ordered the vessel stripped of equipment which would be used to repair its heavily damaged sister ship the Bloody Talon.
That the ground forces, especially the Spheroids had fought so well had been surprising to say the least. It seemed that the Outworlders did have a spine when it came to defending their homes. Even the Freebirth MechWarriors and Solhama troops had fought harder than expected and the Combine was being made to bleed for the worlds they were taking.
“Navigation.â€
“Aff My Khan!â€
“Bring us to low orbit. Communications!†He bellowed turning towards another station.
“Aye Sir!â€
“Signal the fleet to conform to the Flagships maneuvers, order our assault DropShip to return to the fleet save those evacuating Hunter. I want the Kirishima secured and ready to jump within 72 hours.†He said ensuring they kept their prize ship.
“Aff Sir!â€
The assault on the Combine could be viewed as a success, the warrior’s who were growing restless had bloodied themselves, worlds had been claimed and honours earned. It had also been a test of the Alliance’s political and military unity. Many Trueborn had doubted that the Alliance had the will to fight, and whilst getting the support to take their troops into worlds of the Combine had been difficult, when tasked fight fighting the Spheroids had ‘stood up in the trenches’ and fought well, for Spheroids of course.
The fleet was now fully deployed, but for the moment at least both the Combine and Ravens seemed to be avoiding a full fleet action, the planned capture of the DCS Shiro Kurita by the Fleet Command Star was to have been the largest action of the war thus far but the Combine had pulled their ships out just a day before the attack, which of course could not be accounted for.
Polite overtures were also being made on Tukkayid with the Dominions representatives but thus far their reception to a potential attack against the distracted Combine had been lukewarm at best. As always the Bear’s seemed to want to move with leaden feet when speed was of the urgency here. Of course the Bears were watching the Combine border but they seemed disinclined to step over it and the Combine was seemingly going out of its way to NOT provoke the Dominion, lest they be at the centre of a three Clan feeding frenzy.
There were also the reports that the SLDF was deploying WarShips and ground forces to help the Combine. Perhaps it would be best if the offensive was called to a halt now. Honours were roughly even and the Alliance had shown it was not to be trifled with. And if the SLDF and Combine forces then turned on the Nova Cats and their occupied worlds, such a pity.
RCS Providence
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
24th February 3107
Khan Natasha Faraday looked out from the observation deck of the RCS Providence on at the battered and cripple husk of what was once the Spirit of York, now the RCS Wildfire. Her Mandrills were busy repairing and reconfiguring the ancient Dart-class light cruiser to a more modern and useful configuration, but she knew it would take months for it to be completed. She barely kept herself from sighing.
The last two months were hard on the Rim Collection Naval Touman. Two warships lost, another nearly crippled, and the crippling of the Mandrill’s primary capital ship, the RCS Resolute. The New Syrtis-class carrier was beyond lucky to have survived. If Laborer Michelle had not sacrificed herself and vented the entire cargo bay into space as the Overlord-C DropShip was beginning its final run to ram the RCS Resolute, the carrier would have been lost. For her sacrifice, the Mandrills had posthumously given the Laborer Warrior status and her Bloodhouse, Bloodhouse Jannik, had allowed her genes to become part of the Mandrills genetics program. She knew the other Clans would shake their heads at this, but for the Mandrills, it was long something the Mandrills have done. Not nearly so public though, she conceded.
She nodded to herself as she continued her gaze upon the warship below. Though the crippling of the RCS Resolute and the loss of both the RCS Elysium and RCS Rook was unfortunate, already the Mandrills and the Collection were both moving forward.
She came out of her thoughts when she heard someone stepping up to her and noted pleasantly it was Damien Redburn. A few moments passed by as both looked down upon the ongoing work to repair the RCS Wildfire. “You wished to speak to me personally, quiaff?†he asked, using the Clan term in respect for her.
“Aff. The other Clans were very impressed with the capabilities of our new OmniFighters,†she informed the Rim Collection president. “Impressed enough a few have declared Trials of Possession for production schematics for them.â€
“I assume they are still unaware that the fighters we deployed are the only examples we currently field?†He asked the Khan nodded their Watch had done well by the Clan so far hiding what the Mandrills were able to deploy “which Clans and for which designs?â€
“So far, the Sarmatia has only gained some side-interest from Ravens and Falcons, but that is to be expected at this time,†she informed her nominal leader. She caught him nodding in thought at that.
“I studied the after action reports. The light OmniFighters are too armored for the other Clans liking, quiaff?†he queried her.
Natasha nodded back. “Aff.â€
“We could possibly trade the design to Clan Mountain Wolf, I guess,†he propositioned out loud, making Natasha wince. “Or just give the design outright to Clan Sea Fox. It isn’t like we could produce the OmniFighter ourselves anyways, a good proof of concept design.†Though designed by the Fire Mandrills, both knew Clan Sea Fox was the actual supplier of the craft, what with the Collection not having a supplier of their own for the 360 estralight fusion engines the light OmniFighter required. That didn’t mean either liked that fact though. Another moment passed as each stared out the observatory window.
“What of the Parthia?†Damien asked her, breaking the silence.
“All the Clans have an interest in that design,†she informed him. “Though so far, only the Falcons and Horses have engaged in Trials of Possession for the design.â€
“Did we lose the design to either of them?†he queried back to her.
“Only to the Hell’s Horses barely, though the Falcons deployed a new OmniMech of their own in their Trial. We took one from the Trial and another was rebuilt using salvage. Some kind of advanced Summoner design,†she answered back. “I plan on issuing a Trial of Possession for the design once two stars of Kirghiz-G OmniMechs arrive at Tukayyid. If we fail we may attempt to trade the Parthia for it.â€
“What of the Hun?†he queried her finally.
“Clan Nova Cat is planning to issue a Trial of Possession for the design in the coming weeks,†she informed him. “Meanwhile, all the other Clans are interested in it. The Rasalhague Dominion and the Ravens are especially interested though I believe they are planning on waiting until they see how the Nova Cats do.â€
“I see,†he commented back before another moment of silence passed between the two. “I noticed the Sea Fox Khanates seem to be quiet about the designs. A bit too quiet.â€
An awkward silence came over the two as Khan Natasha Faraday debated whether to answer him, but in the end decided to. “Khan Evangeline Clarke and I are in negotiations to trade the RCS Mandrill Provider and one, possibly both OmniFighter designs, in return for a new Hakaze-class destroyer her Clan is building in the Chainelane Isles.â€
Damien Redburn nodded. “It makes sense, I supposed. The RCS Providence can only repair one ship at a time and our own warship fleet is too disparate in terms of designs and parts to quickly repair them usually. Though, if the Trial of Possession for that Summoner design is successful, we could trade that instead. Next time, though, just warn me,†he lightly chided her.
She nodded, expecting his answer. Unlike Jerry Able, President Damien Redburn had no interest in forcing the Rim Collection as the superior of the two and instead worked to integrate both the Collection and her Mandrills as one party. Something she too strives for, even if many other Mandrills did not. “Aff.â€
“That does bring up something I wished to discuss with you though Khan,†he commented. “We have no shipyards of our own and the RCS Providence, while a respectable refit ship, is limited to repairing only one WarShip or JumpShip at a time. Nor can it fully repair the damage done to the RCS Resolute.â€
Natasha nodded to him. “Khan Clarke and I discussed that as well. She does not mind having her Clan’s shipyard in the Chainelane Isles repairing ad upgrading the RCS Resolute to a fully modern configuration should we turn over Starliner One to her Khanate.â€
“I guess it works with the proposal Archon Jessica Steiner laid out to me,†Damien conceded. He elaborated when he saw the young Khan’s questioning look in her eyes as she turned to glance at him. “Once the RCS Providence is done with the RCS Wildfire, it will head to Triesting, where it will assist with the repair of the engines to the LCS Adam Steiner and allow it to return to Alarion.â€
He waved his hand placating the now angered Fire Mandrill Khan. “In return we get safe passage for all our ships, either JumpShips or WarShips, and an end to nearly all trade and economic embargoes the Lyran Commonwealth has against the Rim Collection.â€
The younger Khan deflated and turned to once more watch the ongoing repairs out the window. “I guess it works out, quiaff?†she surmised openly.
“It does,†Daimen agreed.
“Khan Clarke may have an idea to solve our bigger problem,†she spoke up after another moment of silence. Soon both were deep in conversation that lasted for hours.
As the month of February ends, a large JumpShip fleet carrying a large number of Fire Mandrill warriors surround the RCS Resolute, the RCS Mandrill Provider, and Starliner One as they begin their journey out of the Rim Collection to the Chainelane Isles. On board the fleet is Khan Natasha Faraday and Brienne Redburn, daughter of President Damien Redburn, who is accompanying the Mandrills to represent the interests of the Rim Collection in the Chainelane Isles.
-
This month's update would not be what it is without marauder648 who came up with the basics for the Marian and Snow Raven/Combine sections so please join me in the thanks for the contribution.
And for anyone curious the ship spoken about in this first section is on this thread below
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55260.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55260.0)
Sister Cassandra’s Residence
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
5th March 3107
Sister Cassandra smiled as her guest was ushered into her gardens, the Prole bowing low as he was dismissed with a wave of the hand. “Artur, please ensure that refreshments are brought up but please let me know when you are coming.†Despite her quite demeanour there was no question to if she was in charge or not.
“Yes Mistress†he replied bowing deeply withdrawing from the room.
Once the slave was gone Cassandra smiled “Brother, it is most agreeable to see you again, I trust you are faring well.â€
“Sister†the man replied. He was an older gentleman, in his late 60’s, grey and silver hair combined with a near white beard made him look regal and dignified, like Cassandra he wore a white cloak, but his other garments were of the types worn by the Patricians and even then most could not afford the sheer quality of his garments. He smiled warmly, dark brown eyes glinting in the low light of the gardens.
“It is good to see you too and yes, all is well. But tell me, why could we not have talked via HPG? It would have been a lot quicker although I did enjoy the trip to Alphard.â€
“Security, and... in truth I missed you.†She said smiling by blood he was not her brother but he had trained her and was as committed to their cause as she was. “It has been too long since I’ve seen anyone else and whilst my Marian guests are… agreeable, they can be quite boorish. “
“The Caesar treats you well? If he does not...â€
“He does, he is young but he is strong, like his mother and father, and whilst he values my advice he is very much like his mother, he will chart his own course. And no brother, he does not treat me poorly, the Marians would be looking for a new Caesar if he did try anything.†She said with a wicked smile.
The older man chuckled “I trust your abilities and intellect Sister, as always.†There was a soft chime and Cassandra nodded and once more the doors at the back of the gardens open and her senior slave watched as two more came in carrying a platter of delicacies, the other a wine gourd and two glasses.
“Shall we?†Cassandra said as she moved to sit on an expansive recliner. The view was spectacular; this was just one of her homes, a benefit of being a close adviser to Caesar Ward. Below the black expanse of the forests seemed to stretch on for eternity whilst the distant light of the Capital could be seen. To the east the sea glinted in the moonlight whilst the stars glinted overhead. The slaves left the food and withdrew as Cassandra poured her guest some wine.
“How long did that take to get use to?â€
“The slaves? A few months, Caesar Ward has continued some reforms that met with sometimes vocal opposition, those voices are silenced now and the results have paid off. I’ve a staff of two hundred, including fifty Plebs now I hardly notice them.†She admitted
“So Sister, why did you call me here, let us get to the matter yes?â€
“Four months ago the Marians found something out there†she said indicating to the sky above her “a ship†she said finally.
“A ship?â€
“Yes, a Star League era exploration vessel.â€
“Show me†he said now intrigued Cassandra didn’t smile, but she knew she had him. On the table between them was a holo display and it sprang to life, a slowly rotating picture of the C Sagan, an Endeavour-class Research Vessel. The ship was a strange looking vessel it had a small compact forward area with multiple solar panels and sensors, behind was a DropShip docking tower with a docking collar mounted on the bottom on it. A massive gravity deck made up the middle section of the ship while a large communications and sensor dish took up a large section of the aft dorsal hull. At the rear the engine section was like a large brick all business with little elegance,
“I did some research on the class, it took some digging and a few favours with other friends and family. The Hawking left Davion space en-route to Rigel and did not return, the Einstein and Averroes spent most of their time exploring the Chainlane Isles or the space to the North West of House Steiner’s holdings. The Einstein was reported lost in the Amaris Civil War and the Averroes may have departed with General Kerensky. “
“She is quite a find, and her condition?†He asked as the image changed to show what the ship currently looked like and some information that showed what the Marians wanted to do to her. The display shifted, reeling off the state of the Sagan as well as possible Marian plans for her use which made the man snort. “A WarShip? She is a pure research vessel to turn her into a combat capable craft…â€
“Would be a waste of time and resources, yes I was able to get this point across to my hosts.†She agreed
“Ahh…†he said noting that she had called him here because she had a plan “so what is it you suggested?â€
Her smile was bright and warm. “I know that Interstellar Expeditions has a need for vessels of this nature, to seek knowledge, to look for hidden secrets and learn from the lessons of the past. And fortune has placed such an instrument in our hands for this goal.†She noted Interstellar Expeditions would pay handsomely for the vessel.
“I sense a ‘but’.†The older man said a knowing look on his face.
“Perceptive as always brother, yes there is a price. The ship is handed over to Interstellar Expeditions, but in return Interstellar Expeditions will pay to bring the Aqua Vitae yard online again as well as help purchase what is required to refurbish the Hanse so she is more than just a mobile vainglory.†Cassandra said naming the only shipyards that served the Marian Hegemony and the Lola III-class Destroyer that was one of the last pieces of Clan Ice Hellion that served the nation the rest had been traded over the years for other equipment.
“The Marian’s seek to learn from us, to get a competent cadre of trained shipyard personnel. I have seen the Vitae yards; they are barely worthy of the title shipyard. “
“But we dare not refuse brother. We know that on trials the Endeavour’s were used to map parts of the Inner Sphere, and they could well have fully up to date and original star maps. Unfortunately, the ships computers are in such a poor state that the stored data is currently not available, but if they repair her and keep her for themselves, then problems could arise if it got into the wrong hands, the Clans for example, or the Star League. And they would sell such data to the highest bidder.†She point out the ship’s data banks could have information on them that had been hidden since the fall of the first Star League information that many had died to keep hidden.
“That almost sounded like a threat sister.â€
“It is. Not to you of course, you know I would never threaten you, but what is on this ship could threaten many things. The ship still in deep space we cannot get anyone aboard.†She pointed out
“I assume you have done a cost rundown of what would be needed?â€
“I have a data chip with all the information I have been able to gather as well as a cost breakdown. There are other benefits, the Marians and Interstellar Expeditions would be in our debt and both would likely also still rely on us for technical support.â€
“So you see the Marians being a client?†He asked wondering if the small periphery state could fill their needs.
“The Caesar knows this is inevitable if we assist them, and he is open to supporting us and giving Interstellar Expeditions docking rights and permission to use Marian territory.†She said “I know the company will not be too happy to coming to a former pirate state but if we make assurances for safe travel they will deal with us.â€
“What about resources? Must we provide those too?â€
“No, the Marians plan on taking advantage of the chaos in other realms to obtain what they need. Interstellar Expeditions will provide the majority of the capital with the purchase of the Sagen.â€
“With our guidance and advice?â€
“With our guidance and advice of course.â€
“I will of course need to speak with others but I believe that we can make this work. Marian space and the borders of it are in an interesting area for exploration. And it would be a disservice if the Sagan was used for such crass a role as simple warfare. No, we shall take her and her data and put them to good use.†He concluded following her thinking and in the process they would gain the support of the Marians and at least part of Interstellar Expeditions.
“And what of the Marian offer?â€
“I will forward it to those with the power to accept, but I feel they will see things our way. We can also give the Marians a ‘shopping list’ so to speak, as well as a list of potential targets. If we can keep others off balance by using the Marians, then all the better.â€
“Very true Brother, now will you be staying? I have quarters prepared.â€
“It would be my pleasure Sister.â€
Clan offensive
Algate, Candahar Prefecture
Pesht Military District
9th March 3107
With the Draconis Combine attempting to contain the Snow Raven assault and now the Snow Ravens counter attacking against the DCMS Clan Nova Cats forces had faced little opposition on the Draconis Combine’s furthest periphery border. saKhan Katrine Devalis wrapped the winter jacket around her as she stepped off the Outpost-class DropShip she had claimed as her command vessel. Elsewhere Nova Cats were claiming the systems of Slaithwaite, Brailsford and Chorley from poorly armed militia forces but here on Algate the defenders had been reinforced by the Eleventh District of Pesht Regulars Regiment a combined-arms regiment with two Battalions of BattleMechs and a combined infantry and armour Battalion. Adding in the militia defenders there would be at least four regiments of forces arrayed against hers on this world. “I am saKhan Katrine Devalis of the Nova Cat Clan I speak to the defenders of this today I bring two of Clan Nova Cat’s strongest Clusters what units will you use to defend this planet.†She asked trying to ignore the cold.
“We will defend this planet with everything we have.â€
“Well bargained and done, fight and die well.†She said shutting off the communication system behind her two Nova Cat II OmniMechs and two Dragon Cat OmniMechs her own Deimos was still on board the DropShip waiting for her to return from the cold along with the vehicles, ProtoMechs and Battle Armour troopers of her command Trinary. Behind her more Nova Cat DropShips descended through the atmosphere on trails of fire bringing with them the rest of Upsilon Keshik and the Four Hundredth and Fiftieth Assault Cluster the battle for Algate had begun by the end of the week Nova Cat and Eleventh Pesht units were engaged across the planet the Nova Cats experience and technology showing over their DCMS counterparts as they advanced from settlement to settlement. By the end of March the planet was fully under Nova Cat control with the Eleventh Pesht a broken unit though gurella activity continued across the planet.
Raid
Chertan, Wolf Empire
17th March 3107
Under contract with the Star League Defence Force the Crescent Hawks dropped onto Chertan engaging the Wolves as soon as they dropped from the Leopard-class DropShip. The Cresent Hawks had only a single Mech Lance and two Land-Air-Mechs but they kept moving engaging the Clan garrison forces keeping them off balance. The Crescent Hawks objective was not to liberate the planet instead they fought to keep the Wolves on edge capturing or destroying supplies and support facities before withdrawing back off planet. From the salvage taken from Chertan the Crescent Hawks refit their Inner Sphere tech BattleMechs with Clan tech giving them a stronger punch.
Draconis Combine assault
Abagnar, Raven Alliance
Periphery
30th March 3107
DEEDLE-DEEDLE-DEEDLE! “Radar Lock! Radar Lock!†The ‘bitching betty’ of the Sai was irritatingly loud but then again she was supposed to be. A flick of a switch shut the alarm off but still the visual alert flashed in the corner of Gunsho Iason Tarugawa’s eye. Like the rest of his flight he was being painted by the Alliance defender’s air search radars as their assault force entered the atmosphere of Abagnar.
“Hotdog this is Wasabi Lead, picking up at least two stars worth of vehicles painting us with LIDAR, ECM is hot.â€
“Roger that Wasabi, stand by to break.â€
“Sir we’re getting Long March radar painting us!†The Long March was airborn search radar in use on Clan and Alliance fighters.
“Strange, they usually wait...â€
“All elements this is Hotdog cover the droppers and prepare to engage the enemy!†The six Combine DropShips thundered through the air, a thick screen of fighters covering them even as the inevitable happened.
“Missiles coming up from Grid 10A B and D!†Miles away all of them could see the white plumes of the Arrow SAM’s clawing their way skyward but instead of turning they kept climbing higher and higher.
“More missiles coming up from Grid Delta!†Another pilot called out the bitching betty was on overtime now and her alerts became more strident as the first barrage of SAM’s finally tipped over and dived down on the formation, the new profile of attack giving them a far higher terminal velocity and far less time to react.
“All elements break now!â€
“Break, break, break!†Betty said in her calm, nagging tone even as the Combine fighters scattered like a flock of birds the droppers of course had to hold, their AMS was already active and tracking but the initial volley of missiles was aiming for the fighters that were now slamming themselves across the sky as they sought to evade or confuse the seeker heads on the Arrows.
Most were successful but there was still a half dozen dirty fireballs and the odd scream over the radio as fighters were hit by the over-sized missiles causing the deaths of several pilots.
“They’re going for the escorts, have active ID on in bounds, reading Corax and Ammon’s!â€
Even as the Combine fighters were dodging the missiles volleyed at them the Alliance pilots were coming up out of the ground clutter from being at such low altitude as they came up to engage the attackers. The sky was quickly filled with contrails from missiles and pulses of laser and particle light as the aerospace fighters twisted, dived and turned.
Flight Leader James O’Brian grunted as his G-suit swelled round his joints as the G-force of his turn shoved him back into his seat as he swung his Ammon-XR into a brutally tight turn that had the fighter’s frame groaning in protest. “Target locked!â€
The Tatsu he’d been turning on came into view even as he ‘looked’ through the floor of his fighter, the advanced HUD letting him see clearly where he looked. The black and gold Combine assault sled was turning but she was too slow and he had the inside of her as she came about.
Two thick amber beams and a heavy heat surge told him that the lasers had fired even he pressed the trigger, one missed by less than a meter the other ripped across the fighters port wing and it spat sparks and flame as the laser cut through the heavy protection and hit something important. Bleeding smoke the Tatsu turned away.
“It is not that easy friend...â€
---
“Tell Chu-sa Tanaka he can break for orbit, have two fighters break off and escort her.†The holodisplay didn’t really do justice as the damaged Leopard class DropShip turned away. A volley of Arrow missiles had got past the AMS screen and three had slammed into the Leopards flank, smashing armour and starting a fire. With her bay doors damaged and the starboard landing gear little more than a memory there was no way for the aerodyne to land so she had to withdraw.
The Nagumo DropShip’s weapons were adding to the cannonade filling the skies around the Combine assault group as they thundered towards their target. The missiles had stopped falling but now the sky was starting to fill with black puffs as anti-aircraft guns opened fire. The Spaceport that was their primary target sat atop a mesa and dug in Neberu’s were starting their barrage as the surviving Alliance fighters withdrew at high speed and low altitude their job done.
“Sir our nose plating’s down to about 50%...â€
“Range?â€
“Ten more kilometres.â€
“Have the fighters suppress those guns if they can!â€
---
Outside the sky was thick with exploding flak rounds and directed cluster blasts as the Neberu’s hammered away on fully automatic, their commanders designating targets whilst outside loaders worked to feed clip after clip into the rapidly emptying ammo bins of the tanks. Then there was a cheer as one of the DropShips, a Triumph bucked the big aerodyne was bracketed by a stream of rounds as a whole Star concentrated on the big ship. With one engine belching smoke and flame the 8,600 ton craft rolled over gracefully, its nose plunging into the ground the DropShip consumed by the resulting explosion as the ship’s fuel and ammunition detonated killing the vessel’s crew and the passengers.
---
“Sir! The flak is too heavy and we’re down too many units. This is double the defences we was told to expect!†A young officer called out as a Draconis Combine Excalibur-class DropShip was struck by dozens of cannon slugs and missiles.
“Sir we’re picking up more air search radars coming over the horizon!†Another crewmen called out as a second round of Snow Raven aerospace fighters charged into battle.
“Damn…okay I’m issuing the abort order, withdraw to high orbit and get us to the JumpShips!â€
“Sir!!†Someone called out a final warning the Captain of the Edo’s Memory had enough time to look up and see two white streaks thundering towards the nose of his DropShip. The two missiles struck the front of the DropShip piercing the weakened armour before exploding detonating inside the craft. The front of the DropShip exploded outwards with the whole nose of the ship being ripped open by the munitions. The wreckage of the DropShip rained down over the countryside of Abagnar as the aerospace fighters and DropShips continued to fight and die over the landscape.
Clan Meeting, Hall of the Khans
Andrey, Tukkayid
Clan Space Inner Sphere
31st March 3107
“This tea is delightful but I am sure that you have not invited me over just to let me sample it quiaff?†Star Colonel Johannes Hall said as he put down his china cup. The Colonel was aide to the Dominion’s Loremaster when in residence on Tukkayid, he spoke for her in all matters that she could not attend, or be seen to attend.
“Aff my friend that is not why I have invited you, oh and it is actually a Terran blend, from the homeworld itself.â€
“I will not ask how you got your hands on that, or got it past the Ebon Guard…â€
“A Spheroid merchant actually, no smuggling involved although the price was extortionate enough to think that this man was of Diamond Shark stock.†Star Colonel Helen Siegel said as she put her own cup down, smiling at her Bear counterpart. The Dominion and Raven aides were meeting in one of the annexes to the Hall of the Khan’s, a room of dark woods, cool marble and leather furniture, a place to sit and talk shop in a more relaxed atmosphere the décor was too much for many Clansmen but this place needed some extra spent on it.
“I have come to give you something, intelligence reports from our Watch.â€
“Oh?†For all of the work done by the other Clans the Snow Raven’s had one of the most efficient Watches in the Clans; whereas most were adequate the Ravens thanks to their love of intrigue and politicking had a large and expansive network of agents for internal and external security. “A report that would be shared… freely?†Hall asked surprised looking at the Raven officer.
“Of course, it is only a report, and this information would benefit you and the Dominion, it is of little use to the Raven Alliance.â€
“Well then in the spirit of the friendship between the Raven Alliance and the Rasalhague Dominion I accept.†He said raising his glass of tea in salute to the Raven officer.
“Excellent, I will have the data transmitted to your offices so it can be properly reviewed, now let us enjoy our tea.â€
---
Hours later in the Ghost Bear Hall the Loremaster David Gilmour, his aides and saKhan David Bekker stood looking over the data provided by the Ravens. “But Loremaster these reports do corroborate with our own, they show that the Combine is pulling forces back from the border region and they are leaving only garrison forces to defend their worlds.†Star Colonel Johannes Hall.
“Aff I see it and I understand why, with the Ravens and Cats both tearing into their far border they need the troops.â€
“At present all it would take is a push and they could lose so much…†saKhan David Bekker mused looking over the data this was Gilmour’s meeting but the saKhan as the senior Ghost Bear officer on the world had invited himself to look over the data.
“And this report of SLDF forces en-route? They will be passing through the border region and they could link up with the Combines forces.†Johannes Hall noted the SLDF had mobilized a WarShip and ground forces to assist the Draconis Combine.
“Aff… and they will before heading to where the battles are raging.†Loremaster Gilmour noted with saKhan Bekker nodding his agreement. “Besides a single a Black Lion and her escort group are not a threat to our borders, nor are two additional units.â€
“The Ravens are trying to get us to cross the border.†saKhan David Bekker noted looking at the saKhan and to the other officer. “Their offensive seems to have run out of steam and they are trying to consolidate their hold on the worlds they have claimed. The Combine still has greater troop strength than both forces arrayed against them, but if we crossed the border to strike at such soft targets then those forces would not reach the warzone as they would have to be diverted to attempt to contain our assault.â€
“Aff, so what shall we do?†Johannes Hall asked knowing the answer
“Nothing†Gilmour decided
“Nothing†Bekker agreed “we do not need a war at present we continue to improve life throughout our nation and with resources being spent on improving the infrastructure of our worlds as well as yet more Dominion Terminals our JumpShip capacity at the moment is at a premium.†He said pausing allowing Gilmour to continue
“Aff we will continue to have trials with the other Clans, trials that we can control the scope of through biding numbers to agreeable numbers. The Khan we continue our training regimes and stay on top of any incursions into our territory. This will keep the Warrior’s happy and without a political mandate for an attack we cannot just cross the border, as tempting as it may be.â€
“Not while Magnesson is Khan†Bekker noted quietly Loremaster Gilmour shot him a glance noting the frustration in the saKhan’s voice before speaking up.
“Whilst we are Warriors we have to obey our Government. Neg, we will not join the Ravens and Cats in their assault, we will watch, and we will do as we have always done. Defend ourselves with great and terrible anger if struck, but to turn on a foe that has turned their back to us, and lowered their weapon. This we shall not do.â€
“Neg, we will deal with our problems in our own way.†Bekker agreed
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Now a bit more from me and some more from the Fire Mandrills from James Tanaga
As always feel free to comment, speculate and ask questions. I'll try to answer without giving away what's coming up.
Trial of Possession
Vantaa, Hell’s Horses Territory
Clan Occupation Zone
2nd April 3107
For the first time since taking over Clan Wolf’s territory Clan Coyote move on five systems bordering their territory. In the early hours of the 2nd April Coyote forces enter the Vantaa and Ridderkerk systems declaring Trials of Possession. Both the Horses and Coyotes fight within the rules of Zellbrigen with Ridderkerk falling to the Coyotes while the Horses continue to hold Vantaa.
Several hours later Coyote forces arrive in the Hohenhems, Kufstein and Kandis systems of the Rasalhague Dominion declaring further Trials of Possession over the Hohenhems and Kufstein systems and over a production run of new BattleMechs in the Kandis system. The Bears successfully hold onto Kufstein system while Hohenhems is taken by the Coyotes. In the Kandis system the Coyote and Horses forces fight each other to a draw the Bears agree to transfer half of the production run to the Coyotes.
Planetary Raid
Milos, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate
12th April 3107
With their main defensive unit reassigned to the Draconis Combine border Milos is subjected to a heavy raid by a double battalion of BattleMechs and vehicles supported by infantry. The raiders cause damage to several facilities on the planet before the First Milos Planetary Guard unit rally to turn back their enemy.
Two days following the attack on Milos Protector-General Devlin Stone stood in front of a press conference facing the reporters on Kittery. For someone of his rank Stone was a young man with dark brown hair and piercing eyes. “Ladies and Gentlemen I would like to confirm that unknown raiding forces assaulted Milos and damaged several industrial targets south of the planetary capital forty-two citizens of Milos were killed in the attack.†He said announcing the causalties on the planet “the Milos Planetary Guard contained the raiders before they could cause further damage and drove them into retreat. We currently do not know the origin of the raiders.†He said the reporters suddenly began asking a dozen questions all at the same time before Stone raised his hands to quieten the reporters “I know you have questions.†He said “the Second Kittery Regimental Brigade who were based on Milos have successfully landed on and liberated Enif from Clan Snow Raven along with the Northwind Renegades Brigade and the SLS Invincible. During the battle for the system the Snow Raven WarShip Valdore was destroyed by the SLS Invincible and its escorts.†He announced the reporters began asking a dozen more questions this time Stone point to one of the reporters a young woman with highlighted brown/blonde hair wearing a blue suit.
“Protector-General Stone, Kimberly Grissom Milos Gazette, while we all agree we should congratulate the Second Kittery and the Renegades on their victory do you blame Commanding-General Focht reassigning Milos’ primary defenders and not assigning additional support to the Planetary Guard?â€
“I do not†Stone said looking at the young woman who shifted in her chair slightly under his gaze “the Milos Planetary Guard have my full support and I would challenge any unit to react quicker than they did. The Star League Defence Force wears many hats in its responsibility to defend the Star League Protectorate, the Kittery Prefecture and the nation states of the Star League. To facilitate this we will be forming the Fifth Kittery Regimental Brigade over the next two years is formation will enhance the defences of the Prefecture and of other Star League holdings.†He said adding to more questions towards Stone many regarding the Regiment’s “name†if it would follow the other units that had been formed in the Prefecture. “For now the unit has no name I welcome the input of the people of the Prefecture to submit names for consideration. I have also been authorized by Commanding-General Victor Focht that a new Light Horse Division will be formed with the Eridani Light Horse forming the core of this new Division and each of their Regiments expanded to a full Brigade with General Ralph Cumberland, of the Eridani, taking command of the Division.†He said breaking the news that the Star League Defence Force was growing in size and strength despite the setbacks of today.
Failure, Battleline
Addicks, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
15th April 3107
Off to the right of the Green Marauder the lances Phoenix Hawk exploded in a fireball under the concentrated fire by the Proserpina Draconis March Militia. The Bounty Hunter and his team had been called in to eliminate a suspected pirate band “The 7†who was hiding on the planet. The initial part of the operation had gone well but now things were falling to pieces the militia were supposed to be on the other side of the planet but instead they were all over his unit and “7†were falling back out of range. “Ranya, Mark, Gunther fall back the operation is scrubbed†the Bounty Hunter commanded “Kafka check our rear area we need a clear path to fall back through. Sam lay down some heat.â€
“We are retreating?†The female VTOL pilot asked angrily her aircraft turning towards their rear area.
“Yes we are not here to take on the whole militia†he said engaging the incoming enemies with his Marauder’s weapons alongside him Gunther Dudsen, Ranya and Mark continued to fire as they fell back. Over their position Sam continuously fired Arrow IV artillery missiles over their position. “Continue the retreat†he commanded backtracking his BattleMech taking out an enemy Sentinel but they couldn’t continue to get lucky Mark’s Shadow Hawk took a massive amount of damage from an LRM volley and fell to one knee. Gunther Dunsen stepped forward covering the fallen Shadow Hawk. “Gunther retreat I will cover†the Bounty Hunter said drilling down through an enemy Enforcer BattleMech.
“No I will kill these Fedrats it is time.†He said his thick Germanic accent coming through clearly over the communications as the ninety ton modified Mauler stepped forwards firing its both of his BattleMech’s hyper velocity autocannons and missile launchers as he charged forwards. Gunther Dunsen was a serial killer he made his money by hunting down people and killing them now he did the same with a BattleMech and he was very good at the job. As he stepped forwards a series of missile and autocannon hits struck Mark’s downed Shadow Hawk decapitating the kneeling BattleMech.
“This won’t happen again†the Bounty Hunter promised as he watched the Mauler charge towards its enemies firing constantly as it closed on the Addicks Militia units. “Continue retreat†he said pulling back “Sam switch to mines aim for the gaps in our fields.†He commanded during their approach on the pirates position they had laid some mines as a fall back encase something went wrong.
“We need to do something about this it is costing us money.†Kafka said diving her VTOL over the militia lines opening fire with the craft’s rotary autocannon damaging several vehicles.
“We will reveal a truth or two the record will be set†the Bounty Hunter promised he knew why the AFFS were hunting them down he ha pulled the trigger but what the AFFS didn’t know was that the Bounty Hunter had kept the information that set the gun up. Several hours later the Bounty Hunter and the remains of his team escaped onto their DropShip escaping the planet and then the system setting a course for Robinson.
RCDS Snarling Mandrill (Overlord C-class DropShip)
Uninhabited Periphery System
18th April 3107
Khan Natasha Faraday held herself on the ceiling of the RCDS Snarling Mandrill cargo bay as she watched her fellow Clansmen enjoy a game of microgravity dodge ball. She was sweating and wore only a tank top and light shorts, with a red armband on her right arm. She was but one of eight Mandrills, Warrior and otherwise, that were already knocked out of the round.
She smiled, as she watched Brienne, President Damien Redburn’s daughter, catching a ball thrown her way before throwing it into another incoming ball, ricocheting the two away from her. The game was a popular training and exercise tool among the Mandrills when travelling in space, with both Warriors and non-Warriors taking part in it. The fact it was fun didn’t hurt either. She had initially resisted Brienne’s involvement in this mission but Damien Redburn had said it was important for her to learn how to work with the Mandrills and vice versa. So far he couldn’t argue with what she had seen.
Natasha cocked an eyebrow as Brienne moved her body to kick an incoming ball, sending it flying into an Elemental’s head. Using her momentum, she grabbed a teammate out of the way of another ball and then swung him around her before letting him go, quickly throwing him past the last two defenders and the designated finishing line. Impressive she thought watching the game come to an end.
A whistle blew. “Red team wins this round,†yelled out the aerospace Scientist that was acting as one of the referees. Pushing herself forward, she met Brienne half-way, softly colliding with her.
“You have good spatial awareness and teamwork skills,†she remarked to the President’s daughter as the younger woman finally caught her breath, causing her to blush at the praise.
“Thanks, my Khan†the other woman answered back taking in the praise from other members of her team Natasha realized that while Brienne was taking in her teams praise the two’s eyes met often and for extended periods.
‘Maybe she wants to couple,’ Natasha thought to herself it was normal for Clan warriors to seek companionship with other warriors whether they were male or female. Before Natasha could query the younger woman, she heard the comlink on her codex spring to life, a short, rapid series of bleeps alerting her she was needed at her convenience.
Turning to the Aerospace phenotype female Technician next to her, she caught the smaller woman’s attention. “Sue, let everyone know I am needed†she commanded “and continue having fun, quiaff?â€
“Aff, Khan,†the Technician responded as she grabbed, then hurled, Natasha in the direction of the door. As she flew through the nearly empty cargo bay, Natasha swung her body around and noticed Brienne looking at her. As their eyes met Natasha bowed her head intentionally at Brienne causing the younger woman to blush even more.
Turning around, she allowed her momentum to carry her all the way to the bay door, where four more Mandrills and a Collection Freeborn sat, playing a card game. She shook her head as the taller of the two Elementals reached out his hand and caught her before setting her down, all while continuing the card game. It confirmed her thoughts they were using magnetic strips to hold the chairs and table, as well as cards and chips, from floating away. The downtime her people were currently enjoying would not last; soon they would have a fight on their hands.
Only after she left the bay did she answer her comlink “Khan Faraday here.â€
“Khan, Star Colonel Lester Jannik of our Mandrill Honor Guard Cluster on Tukayyid requests an HPG meeting with you at your earliest convenience, though stressed it to be sooner rather than later,†the voice of a female Mandrill reported over Natasha’s comlink. “Our HPG is currently active†she reported letting Natasha know that she could reply now if she wished.
“Good,†Natasha answered back. “Shift the HPG conference to terminal K-31 outside Cargo Bay 4, quiaff?â€
“Aff, Khan,†she other Mandrill replied over the comlink as Natasha turned to the holo-terminal and flicked it on.
A few seconds later, she was met with the image of the silver-haired Star Colonel. “Khan, a situation between our Clan and Clan Jade Falcon has just flared up here on Tukayyid.â€
“What is the situation with the chickens?†she queried the solahma warrior.
The older man sighed. “During the bidding process, Star Captain Jorge Fire Mandrill bid his binary supernova against two stars of Grand Summoners and an Elemental star.â€
Natasha nodded. “I sent him ahead for that reason Star Colonel. What is the problem?†she demanded from the older man surely he was not complaining about her Clan’s move.
“This,†the solahma Warrior answered before a new box on Natasha’s screen popped up and the video began to play.
It only lasted for twenty-eight seconds, but it was more than enough. “Seems the Chickens believe our Kirghiz-G’s are OmniFighters, quiaff?†She said looking at the Falcon bid they had bid two stars of Grand Summoners and a Battle Armour star they would be outweighed and easily beaten by the Mandrill’s assault units she didn’t care how good the new Falcon Summoner was. To give the Mandrill’s an easy victory would diminish their achievement.
“Aff, Khan,†Lester answered her. “I plan to send this video to Loremaster Thomas Ward. With your permission of course,†the older warrior added ferally. “Would be a shame for the Falcons to lose their new OmniMechs due to misunderstanding the bid, quiaff?â€
“Aff allow them to revise their bid†she said still confident of her Clan’s victory over the Falcons she knew that the forces she had sent to Tukayyid could outfight anything the Falcons had there and she wanted it to be convincing for her Mandrills. “The fleet will arrive at Tukayyid in three weeks time. We are still recharging our batteries in the Periphery.†She informed the other Warrior. “I expect the chickens to be crying when we arrive, quiaff?†she challenged the man.
“Aff,†was the man’s simple reply. Both shared feral smiles before the HPG connection was disconnected.
“To be a fly on the wall when this goes down in the Grand Council chambers,†she spoke out loud to the empty hallway.
Planetary Zoo
Algate, Qandahar Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
28th April 3107
The fighting on Algate had gone predictably, short and brutal, the Nova Cat units on the planet proving simply too much for the militia and the Eleventh Pesht Regulars. With no transport to escape off the planet the superior tech and experience of the Nova Cats resulted in the destruction of the remaining warriors of the Draconis Combine defenders. With the planet secured saKhan Katrine Devalis sought out the civilian leader of Algate with her Elementals reporting securing him at the planetary zoo of all places. Moving through the visitor enclosures the saKhan found Governor Martin Balios standing observing the animals. Katrine paid no attention instead turned on the Governor “I am saKhan Katrine Devalis of Clan Nova Cat your world is now ours†Katrine said but the Governor did not look at her “you will submit your authority to my Clan and answer to my warriors. You will help us keep the population under control.â€
“Do you know why I am here?†He asked still looking out into the enclosure. “These animals are a source of strength for my people.†He said “your Clans take great strength from your totem animals yes?†He asked
“Aff we do†Katrine said deciding to look at the animals seeing several large cats with growths mid-way along is back. “What are they?†She asked watching as one of the cats began to climb a tree another opened the growths stretching out a pair of large wings. Immediately Katrine’s vision flashed into her mind watching as the cat continued to stretch while the one that had been climbing jumped from the tree taking to the air on its wings.
“They were developed during the Succession Wars as a hunter for local serpents. The Governor at the time was infatuated with a mythical creature that was the mount of the ancient Gods. He started with a Terran Leopard and enlarged it before crossing its genes with that of the Terran Eagle creating what is officially known as the Leopard Eagle.†He said as another animal launched itself into the air gliding over them. “Unofficially our people have grown used to calling them the Gryphons.â€
“They hobbled the Leopard with the wings she cannot on her own.†Katrine Devalis said still watching the animals.
“The destruction of the Succession Wars cut off the supplies and money for supporting the research work. They were forced to release them as they were one hundred Leopard Eagles released into the wild against hundreds of serpents who had terrorized the people of this planet.†He said telling the history of the animal “within fifty years the serpents numbers were controlled and reduced by the cats they became a symbol of strength, unity and perseverance for our people.†He explained “we do not fear your Nova Cats, saKhan Devalis, you have overcome the Dragon treat our people well, and you will have our respect and our cooperation.†He promised the saKhan as she once again looked at the Leopard Eagles, the Gryphons, wondering if they were what her vision had for told. Until now she had believed the Nova Cat absorption of Clan Snow Raven was her vision realized but now perhaps there was another option.
Beyond Algate DCMS forces launch follow up attacks on Abagnar, Hongor, Land’s End, Pentrine X and Vega Lianna shattering two clusters of Snow Raven forces while losing two full Regimental Teams themselves in each case the DCMS find the Raven WarShips completely missing. Unlike the previous attack on Abagner this time the Draconis Combine liberation forces are successful in driving off the Raven defenders. Elsewhere the reason behind the Snow Raven forces folding in front of the DCMS becomes apparent as the Ravens land forces on Bad News and Brasha with full WarShip support tightening the noose around the units that had pushed into the Draconis Combine.
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Great Update! Wonder how SaKhan Devalis will act on this new revelation??? Clan Snow Raven/OA forces showing its mettle against the DCMS? Keep it up
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My thanks to James Tanaga for the start of the Mandrill Bear scene although it's changed a little since the original
Royal Birth, Royal Argyle Hospital
Argyle, New Avalon Operating Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
2nd May 3107
In the heart of the Federated Suns Duke Fredrick Davion the younger brother of the First Prince becomes a father for the third time as his third daughter is born on Argyle. Duke Fredrick and his wife Nikki name the child Cresta. A week later on 9th May the hospital is the site of another birth into the Davion family with Julian Davion, grandson of the late Jackson Davion, is born bringing much publicity to the sleepy vacation world of Argyle.
Command Deck, LCS Iron Fist (Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser)
Nadir Point, Tharkad System
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
12th May 3107
Just off the Nadir Point to the Tharkad system the LCS Iron First and her sister ship the LCS Typhoon sat waiting using virtually no thrust. On board the ship Archon Jessica Steiner expertly moved through the micro-gravity entering the Iron Fist’s Command Centre. “What is our status Admiral?†She asked looking at the vessel’s commander Admiral Mateusz Ziółko.
“We are holding position as commanded Archon. Our sensors have detected three large radiation surges at the Nadir Point our visitors are arriving.â€
“How long?†Jessica asked looking over the readouts in the command centre using her trained eye.
“Any moment†the ship’s commander said as the first one point eight million tonne WarShip entered the system the Archon looked at the Admiral “right now mam.†He deadpanned as the ship lit its engines and moved out of position. “Warbook can’t identify what we can identify she’s a nasty customer.†He said looking over the sensor data opposite the Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser the vessel wearing the insignia of the Federated Suns moved gracefully away from the Nadir Point. “FSS Indefatigable…â€
“I did not realize that the Federated Suns would be taking their own ship with them.†Archon Jessica Steiner said as a second vessel of the same class entered the system this one painted in the colours of the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Tireless†he said “not exactly a name we would give one of our vessels.†He said as the ship began to move clear off point while a third ship, another vessel painted in Lyran colours, identifying as the Diligence.
“We can rename her†the Archon said “I was thinking the LCS Peter Steiner-Davion†she said naming the vessel for her late father. The Admiral looked at the Archon and nodded his agreement.
“Communication from the Tireless, sir, a Duchess Sarah Davion on board the vessel is awaiting the Archon’s presence for handover of the vessel.†The communication’s officer reported.
“I will be on board presently, Admiral have our crews shuttled over to both vessels we will take over from the Federated Suns naval personnel.†She directed
Nearly an hour later the Archon was moving through another vessel which now felt quite crowded as the AFFS and LCAF Naval personnel transferred command of the vessel. In the command centre the Archon met with Duchess Sarah Davion, younger sister of First Prince Burton Davion, Jessica Steiner knew little about the woman only that she was not a warrior instead she served in the Federated Suns government. As she approached Jessica looked at the woman she was in her thirties and despite having no martial history was a powerful and elegant looking woman if she were Lyran the aura she had could have been mistaken for that of Archon Katrine Steiner. “Duchess Davion I did not realize the First Prince had dispatched a member of his family to escort our new Battleships, or that your own vessel would be accompanying you.â€
“Operational requirement the FSS Indefatigable is carrying four Monarch type DropShips together with the Indefatigable we will be able to transfer the crews home without issue. I have also been authorized to negotiate with you over the transfer of control of the Arondight type DropShips docked to your two Battleships as both WarShips carry the Naval variant of the C3 computer the First Prince believed the Lyran Commonwealth could use DropShips that can be used with this system.
“We appreciate the offer but as you are already carrying DropShips exactly how will you get them home if I do not purchase?â€
“The Fifth Battle Group will carry the DropShips as our time supplying naval forces to guard your border is coming to an end.†Duchess Sarah Davion explained Jessica had dreaded today.
“The peace with the Falcons will soon end we could use your naval units.â€
“Yes and the Federated Suns also needs its sons and daughters home. You have had time to shore up your defences and with the Tireless…†She said before the Archon spoke up.
“Peter Steiner-Davion†Jessica corrected the Davion noblewoman who smiled at hearing the name of her uncle.
“The Peter Steiner-Davion and Diligence will give you a starting block to produce further vessels of her class. Your engineers and our own brought the class to life the First Prince has authorized me to release all data concerning the class and the SLDF’s WarShip grade Anti-Missile System to your use.†She explained
“How does the Star League feel about this?â€
“It was something that needed to be done.†Sarah Davion explained the technology was now being shared with the other member states as well as the SLDF attempted to make the system a staple of future WarShip design allowing the capital ships of the Inner Sphere to coordinate their defences.
“Indeed it was and they are a welcome addition to our naval forces.†Archon Jessica Steiner said “you must stay with us on Tharkad to negotiate over the DropShips.†She suggested
“I have always desired to see the Triad†Sarah admitted “my son and husband are onboard the FSS Indefatigable if they are also invited then I accept.â€
“Of course they are†Jessica said smiling “our families will always be linked by blood our fathers tried to keep our links alive despite the end of the Federated Commonwealth.†She explained “I do not believe that these are links that we should allow to die in our generation.â€
“I agree and so does my brother†Duchess Sarah Davion agreed. Over the next three weeks Duchess Sarah Davion and her family were treated as honoured guests on Tharkad during this time the trade of the eight DropShips on the two WarShips was completed between the two nations. Then with their visit complete the family on board the FSS Indefatigable left the Tharkad system heading for the Jade Falcon border and the Fifth Battle Group including the three heavily damaged vessels of the task force. It would take the better part of six months but the vessels would rendezvous with the other AFFS WarShips on the Clan Wolf border before returning to the Federated Suns in early 3108.
Khan’s meeting, Rasalhague Dominion Hall
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Territory Inner Sphere
22nd May 3107
Natasha Faraday of the Fire Mandrills moved her pawn forward on the board, threatening Ragnar’s knight. She nodded as Ragnar was forced to move the knight back inside his territory and followed through by moving another pawn to cover the first. Though the game was purely recreational, both Khans were playing competitively.
“You likely made an enemy of the Falcons for the rest of your days last night, you know?†the Ghost Bear Khan and military leader of the Rasalhague Dominion queried her quietly.
“You are trying to distract me,†she accused him, causing the far older man to chuckle. “Besides, the chickens should have read the fine print we have always been enemies one way or another.â€
“Oh I know,†the older man acknowledged as he moved his bishop to threaten Natasha’s rook, forcing her to move a pawn forward, less the rook be taken. In response, the aging Ghost Bear took an undefended pawn on the other side of the board, threatening her own knight.
“Not many have managed to force them to initiate a brawl on their own and breaking zellbrigen,†he responded a few moments later. “And it was all in front of Ebon Guard members. I must say it was quite artistically done.†Minutes passed as both continued the game. Natasha could see she had lost the chess game, but she continued on, for another game between the two Khans continued.
“You wish for your forces safe passage through the Rasalhague Dominion, quiaff?†he asked as he took a bishop.
Natasha nodded as she looked across the board. “Aff, our intelligence predicts now is the best time for you and the Dominion to strike at the Dragons, what with the Cats and Ravens heading deeper into the Dragon’s territory you could make significant headway on your border.†She moved her knight.
“Perhaps,†he conceded to her. “Yet, that would mean weakening my Clan. You understand why I am loath to do so, quiaff?†He brought his queen to the centre of the board, finally gaining firm control over the centre, typical Bear fashion moving its most powerful pieces into positions of control and prominence.
“Aff,†she acknowledged. “Your relationship with the Horses never allows for a peaceful border and they are smarting after being driven off by the Lyrans. Should you attack, they and the Coyotes would take advantage of you. The latter like the jackals they are.â€
The Ghost Bear nodded to her. “They are survivors, just as your own Clan is Khan; the Coyotes are finally showing themselves to still be a Clan capable of moving on its own. Their recent trials have proven that they are ready for heavier combat.†He said the recent Coyote victories had won them Ridderkerk from the Hell’s Horses and Hohenhems from his own Dominion. The Dominion counter attacks had won his Clan Kobe, Kranston and Hyperion while two further attacks had failed to gain further territory.
“You need not remind me, Khan Magnusson,†she bit out. “But at least my Clan survived on its own and has made its own territorial moves.â€
“Yet you are hobbled by the Collection you now serve and the Coyotes are not,†he spoke openly to her as she moved a rook deep into his territory, out of the way of Ragnar’s queen.
“Careful, Khan,†Natasha warned him lightly. “Those are fighting words.â€
“You mean if I was any other Khan, quiaff?†he joked back, causing her to crack a smile. It faded a moment later as the Ghost Bear Khan moved his knight, checkmating Natasha’s king and ending the game.
She sighed. “I prefer Go myself,†Natasha muttered as she waved a hand to the board.
The older Clan Warrior nodded to her. “A sound strategic game,†he volunteered.
Natasha nodded to the older Warrior’s answer. “What is your price for safe passage through your territory?†she asked directly after a moment of silence between the two.
The other Khan rested his chin in his hand as he thought. “How long do you predict to be fighting the Draconis Combine? I doubt you are attempting to establish an occupation zone here on my border, quineg?â€
Natasha shook her head. “Neg, merely a resources raid the likes of which has not yet been seen in the Inner Sphere, we have identified a target in the Draconis Combine and we wish to exploit it.â€
“Depends on the target and what you are grabbing?†the aging Freeborn Khan of the Rasalhague Dominion responded after a moment.
“The JumpShip repair yards at Schuyler,†she answered back. "Likely to be done within three months but will settle for six."
Ragnar Magnusson was taken aback. “The JumpShip yards why they are incapable of construction?†he queried her in shock, causing Natasha to sit back and nod.
“We have our reasons…†She teased not wishing to give too much away.
“You are certainly daring, Khan Faraday,†he remarked a moment later. “Explains why your two new WarShips are here, though,†he acknowledged. “What did you have to trade for the Hakaze, if I may ask?â€
“The Collection surrendered two badly damaged warships to Khan Clarke’s Khanate in return for immediate yard time in the Chainelane Isles for the RCS Resolute and the immediate turnover of the RCS Firebrand to my Clan,†she informed him.
Ragnar Magnusson nodded at her answer. “The production specs for your new OmniFghters and Kirghiz-G OmniMech, as well as complete salvage rights would be a start,†the Ghost Bear Khan informed her a long moment later. “No games Khan Faraday you cannot play this as if your troops are my own. If you were to there would be grave consequences.â€
She winced, as the Ghost Bear Khan continued “Aff, Khan Magnesson my Mandrills will fight as Mandrills we will take our objective from the Combine and withdraw in good order you have my word.â€
HPG Transmission, Imperial Palace
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
25th May 3107
Seventy-six year old Warlord Minoru Kurita looked at the Tri-vid image being transmitted by the Khan of the Snow Raven Clan Vir Sukhanov stared back at him the younger Khan was apparently on board a WarShip in the contested Pondicherry system “Khan Sukhanov you have already lost two WarShips in the Tabayama system and almost six clusters attempting to take Pondicherry and Tabayama perhaps it is time that the Ravens gave up on their quest to battle the Dragon?â€
“Your Second Genyosha has been destroyed and the First Sword of Light will soon follow them. My forces are a single jump from the planet that you are standing on. I could decapitate your nation with one strike.†He said taunting the older man.
“I could do the same to you†Minoru stated “my forces could strike at Dante causing you equal or greater damage.†He knew the importance of Dante to the Snow Raven Clan and what was based there recent successes on Brasha, Bad News and Morthac had not only bought their forces some much needed breathing room but also threatened the Snow Raven capital.
“Perhaps that is a risk I am willing to take.â€
“Perhaps it is but is it a risk you Clan can survive? You were sucked into this war by the Nova Cats who had not hit a single new target in nearly three weeks. Why is it your Clan is doing all the heavy lifting of this conflict?†Minoru challenged the younger man
“The Nova Cats have their own objectives as does my Clan†he answered carefully “what is the point to this call Warlord?†Khan Sukhanov asked sounding bored
“With respect I propose an end to this conflict Khan Sukhanov†Minoru said “if not then two things are likely to happen next in our conflict. You will invade New Samarkand and likely cripple this world’s shipyards and production, you may even kill me, but you will be driven off. I will call in resources from across the Draconis Combine to be used against you. At the same time I will command my military to strike at Dante and flatten your facilities there with orbital bombardment if I need to but I promise you Khan Sukhanov your Clan will be broken.â€
“You believe you can threaten your way out of this conflict!†He snapped angrily
“No, I believe I can make you see reason Khan Sukhanov, I believe I can make you see that for this conflict to continue will see the Draconis Combine crippled and the Snow Ravens dead and that is something that neither of us desires.†He said appealing to the man’s sense of reason he would actually love to see the Snow Raven and every other Clan dead but not at the expense of the Draconis Combine. “I propose that we each retain the worlds that have changed hands in this conflict and the warriors captured by both sides are released from their bonds.†He suggested the Draconis Combine had more than two clusters of warriors interned in the Draconis Combine while the Snow Ravens had shattered several regiments and were currently still fighting with the Sword of Light on Pondicherry. The Draconis Combine could do with those soldiers back. There was a lengthy pause as neither leader spoke thinking over their next move.
“We live to fight another day.†Sukhanov said speaking the words “I agree Warlord†he said finally “I will allow your warriors to leave the systems we have taken and we are retaining this contested system.†He said making it clear to the Warlord what the price was for their peace agreement.
“And we will be retaining those around Dante.†Kurita said maintaining his threat against the Ravens.
“They were won in battle Warlord your people fought well.†Sukhanov finally said shutting off the communications grid. Over the next several weeks the Draconis Combine and Snow Ravens exchanged the warriors captured on either side and settled into a more secure border.
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Hmmmmm, what could the Flame Monkeys be after, I wonder.
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New WarShip-class on sensors
Indefatigable-class Battleship including the original I based it on
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/indefatigable-class-battleship-(au-with-thanks)/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/indefatigable-class-battleship-(au-with-thanks)/)
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I read your old stuff all last year.... More new current stuff please! ;)
TT
Can a guy not have five minutes?? Oh wait I've had six hours let's see what I've rustled up...
(Wasn't quite six hours and James Tanaga did a bit too)
Opening Ceremony, SLDF Facility Focht War College
Kentares City, Kentares IV
Draconis March, Federated Suns
6th June 3107
More than three hundred students stood in front of the Focht War College, a training facility that had once been built on Tukayyid, which had been reassembled piece by piece here on Kentares IV with the cooperation of the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate Governments. Kommandant Maria Rudolph stood looking out over the assembled students “you have come from across the Inner Sphere and Periphery with the sole purpose of learning and bettering yourselves.†She began speaking Maria Rudolph was a twenty year veteran of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade she had learned the way of fighting as part of the Elite brigade and had fought battles on more than two dozen worlds however she had also helped teach the dependents of the Eridani teaching them more than just combat skills dedicating her life to the future generations making her the perfect new leader of the facility. “Some of you will return to your home realms with a greater understanding of the other nations of the Inner Sphere, others will join the ranks of the Star League Defence Force, to the many mercenary units or into civilian life employing the skills you have learned here to pursue whatever you want…†suddenly from behind Maria Rudolph in the foyer of facility a huge explosion ripped through the front of the College the blast and fire enveloped Kommandant Maria Rudolph, dozens of dignitaries including Duke David Dresari, the leader of Kentares, and spread over the crowd with debris showering the students causing dozens of fatalities and several more serious casualties.
From across Kentares emergency responders attend the site of the damaged College to evacuate casualties. Among the dead lay Maria Rudolph and David Dresari and nearly eighty of the students. Several days later an HPG Broadcast from the “Sixth of June†claims responsibility for the explosion stating that “Blake’s Word will rise once again.†Star League Protectorate and Federated Suns governments vow not to be bowed by terrorist attacks and intimidation and continue with the opening of the school despite the losses and the damage done with Kentares Militia training facilities doubling as a College Campus until the Focht War College is fully repaired.
Capellan Offensive
District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
12th June 3107
Under the command of Isabelle Fisk several Capellan Confederation regiments move into the “Ipswich thumb†which consists of three systems that have been isolated from the rest of the District of Oriente. Isabelle Fisk personally commands the assault on Pella II leading the Red Lancers against the Fourth Oriente Lancers killing the Free Worlds League unit’s commander in personal combat. With the Fourth all but destroyed on Pella II the mercenary commands directed to defend Ipswich and Shuen Wan quickly fold under the assaults of Capellan Regiments supported by naval forces.
Khan’s quarters, RCDS Snarling Mandrill (Overlord C)
Schuyler, Alberio Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
13th June, 3107
Khan Natasha Faraday stood, drying her still-wet body from a shower, as she looked down on the holo-display of Jonathan Banacek, her saKhan.
“I warned you before we came here,†he grumbled to her, annoyed. “Trying to find a specific asteroid in an asteroid field is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Are you sure the Dragons have yet to destroy it?â€
She sighed, as they revisited the argument. “The K-F drive manufacturing plant is in one of the asteroids. It is too important for the Dragons to destroy.â€
“If it is so important to them, then why has the complex not yet been repaired?†he countered. “The Dragons had close to fifty years to get it back online since the dezgra Blakists attacked it. They have the facilities earlier and where are the extensive defences?â€
She shrugged. “If the plant was up and running the Bears would have hit Schuyler and the surrounding systems to either destroy or capture it and the Dragons would have lost one of their few remaining JumpShip yards at the time. So long as the plant remained down, the Bears did not entirely mind. As for the defences the yards themselves are a state perhaps the Dragon does not think this system is worth trying to defend.â€.
Jonathan grumbled to himself as he turned his head to look at something off camera before turning his gaze back at her. “And you are sure the Dragons had not moved the facility out of system, quiaff?†He asked as she pulled on her duty vest preparing for another day on the planet.
“Aff,†she answered confidently back. “If they did, the Bears would certainly know about it.â€
“As long as the Bear is not playing games with us…†saKhan Jonathan Banacek sighed again as Natasha continued to dress. “Has the Dragons on the planet’s surface been destroyed yet?â€
Natasha shook her head looking back at the holo. “We currently have the Fourteenth District of Pesht Regulars pinned down in between a mountain range, but I am waiting until the Third Battle and Nineteenth Striker Clusters reposition themselves to finish them off. The First Cavalry Cluster has begun to garrison the capital city after destroying the dezgra mercs they took the fight into the city.†She remarked disgusted by the tactic bending over to tighten her boot laces smiling as she thought about the Mandrill boots smashing the Mercenary Battalion. Fighting in the city had cost her almost two Trinaries including a portion of Brienne Redburn’s nova but it had been worth it and the young Collection warrior had now been blooded claiming a kill over a mercenary Dragon BattleMech.
“Once you destroy the Dragons, I will signal the JumpShip fleet to begin evacuating the DropShip and JumpShip yards, Quiaff?†he asked.
“Aff,†Natasha answered back. “The sooner we begin disassembling the JumpShip yards from this world, the sooner we can get out of here. We do not have near enough forces in system to truly keep the system to ourselves for very long, with the Raven fight finishing sooner than we hoped we could face a counter attack at any time†she reminded him. “Still, I am hoping for us to find the asteroid before we withdraw from the system.â€
“I know,†Jonathan agreed. “The K-F manufacturing plant would have jumpstarted our plans. Still, even the yards as they are currently will expedite them great.†He paused for a moment and smiled. “You concentrate on getting the yards out of here and I on the missing asteroid, quiaff?â€
Aff,†she answered back, smiling.
Draconis Combine Counter-attack
Qandahar Prefecture, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
20th June 3107
Working together with the Star League Defence Force several units of the Draconis Combine Mustered Society cross into the Nova Cat Occupation zone liberating Harshill, Gravenhage and Lupine V. The DCMS/SLDF units destroy the Nova Cat’s Anders McKenna, a Swiftsure-class Cruiser, in the Gravenhage system while driving back the White Aerie, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser. On the ground elements of the 201st Nova Cat’s Roar Cluster, the 109th Striker Cluster and Seventh Nova Cat Roar Cluster are destroyed as is the DCMS Sixth Pesht Regulars as are half of the Fifth Yokosuka Land Air Mech Regiment.
Command Deck, RCDS Snarling Mandrill (Overlord C)
Schuyler, Alberio Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
24th June, 3107
Natasha stormed into the command centre onboard her DropShip, Brienne hot on her tail. Both had been enjoying a sparing session in the cargo bay as their BattleMechs were repaired following another skirmish with DCMS forces on the planet. Again the Mandrills had taken damage they couldn’t afford and again the DCMS units had faded away this time disappearing into the morning fog.
“Sitrep!†she shouted.
“The RCS Ash Storm and the RCS Firebrand are both reporting a WarShip have entered the system via a pirate point, Khan,†the male Technician manning the communications station reported, as Natasha and Brienne closed in on the holo-table. “Piping into the communications feed now.â€
“-rally to navpoint Charlie!†Natasha heard Star Commodore Jason Thastus of the RCS Ash Storm, their York-class Carrier, yell out the York was at the Nadir Point while the Firebrand, their new Hakaze-class Escort Destroyer held station at the Zenith. Natasha guessed that Combine spies had informed their navy that the Mandrills defended the traditional jump points.
“Aff!†Natasha heard the slightly strained voice of the solahma Star Commodore in charge of the JumpShip fleet answered back. “Timeframe on your arrival?†he queried.
“Both the RCS Ash Storm and RCS Firebrand are bearing full speed to the fleet, RCJS Smiling Monkey,†the Star Commodore reported. “I have all my DropShips and fighters heading your way, but you will have to hold on until the RCS Firebrand can arrive.â€
Natasha looked at the Elemental Star Captain manning the holo-table. He shook his head, causing Natasha’s heart to sink. The Draconis Combine WarShip, identified as the DCS Dedication to Duty, a Tatsumaki-class destroyer, was already closing in on the barely unprotected fleet of invaluable JumpShip and would arrive before the Mandrill WarShips facing only a handful of DropShips and aerospace fighters it would be a shooting gallery for the DCMS WarShip.
“If they take out the JumpShips-,†warned Brienne.
“I know!†Natasha cut her off as she studied the system map, hoping against hope there was some way to buy time for her JumpShip fleet otherwise their salvage mission and strike force were doomed.
Suddenly, saKhan Jonathan Banacek’s calm voice came through. “RCS Ash Storm, RCJS Crazy Monkey, transmit enemy WarShip’s coordinates, heading and speed. RCS Firebrand, confirm them immediately.†He commanded
Natasha brunched her eyebrows together, not understanding what her fellow Fire Mandrill Warrior was up to his JumpShip was detached from the others still scanning the asteroids for the fabled Combine manufacturing plant even his DropShips and fighters couldn’t help against the Combine destroyer. Thirty seconds later, both WarShips confirmed the DCS Dedication to Duty’s coordinates.
A minute later, more Fire Mandrill blips came onto the holo-image. It dawned on Natasha what the wily Warrior was up to at the same time as Brienne. “Oh god!†she head the younger woman gasp out. Natasha ignored it, too transfixed at the holo-screen knowing what was about to happen and knowing there was nothing that she could do.
Just as the blips reached the safety limit, Natasha watched the RCJS Crazy Monkey jump, momentarily disappearing from the holo-screen, before just as quickly reappearing, nearly right on top of the DCS Dedication to Duty in reality the Odyssey-class JumpShip had likely emerged right in front of the charging Combine Destroyer leaving no time for evasive manoeuvres. A second later, both Mandrill JumpShip and Dragon WarShip disappeared from sensors replaced with wreckage and debris.
“Confirmed. The RCJS Crazy Monkey just jumped right on top of the Dragon destroyer,†Natasha heard Star Commodore Jason Thastus report. “Both ships destroyed,†he added sombrely. The Khan looked down at the table mourning her saKhan, and friend’s death in silence for a moment before looking at the communication’s officer for a moment who nodded her understanding.
“Jonathan Banacek will be mourned by the Mandrills and all citizens of the Rim Collection†she said quietly knowing her calm voice would be transmitted to all Fire Mandrill units within reach. As she spoke she felt Brienne Redburn’s hand join hers in support and companionship. The Khan looked at the younger woman for a moment “he and his crew have secured their place in our Rememberance they will live eternally in our warrior caste and in our memories. Together we must succeed so their sacrifices were not in vain.†She said nodding again towards the communications officer to cut the transmission before looking back at the DropShip commander “pass to the cargo bay I want all of our units prepared for action immediately, including my OmniMech, I want to kill something.†She stated leading Brienne out of the command deck their hands still linked.
AFFS Border Fight
Sarna Commonality
Capellan Confederation
28th June 3107
With the Capellan Confederation focused on the District of Oriente Federated Suns units supported by elements of the Hampton’s Hessens, the Thirty-second Recon Group of the Lexington Combat Group, the Medusans, Clinton’s Cutthroats and the Fourth Illician Lancers Mercenary Commands assault the worlds of Heligoland, Kaifeng, Truth, Minnacora and New Sagan destroying elements of the Third and Fourth Capellan Defence Forces and completely destroying the Third Liao Lancers. Supporting AFFS efforts in the Truth system is the FSS Iroquois, which is the sister ship of the FSS Indefatigable and the ships delivered to the Lyran Commonwealth, the Iroquois is not needed to fire a single shot but is a symbol of the AFFS strength over the Capellan Confederation.
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Trade Station
Kessel, Kessel Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
7th July 3107
For nearly two weeks terrorists had held the Kessel Trade Outpost and nearly forty hostages including a Star League Defence Force trade delegation. Negotiations were going nowhere and the DEST had their orders. Explosions and smoke rocked the Trade Outpost as sixteen Battle Armoured DEST troopers each dressed in Kishi Battle Armour suits smashed through the roof. The whirl of the suits support machine guns filled the air followed by the roar as the weapons opened fire on the conventionally armoured terrorists. The small arms fire from the terrorists was no match for the heavy weapons fire however neither was the trade outpost which suffered significant damage during the ten minute assault.
Following the brief battle all of the terrorists are confirmed to be dead each of them torn to pieces by the heavy Kishi fire however over half of the hostages are also found to be dead including all but one of the SLDF trade delegation. While it is clear the situation needed to be resolved the Star League questions why the DEST troopers made use of a new front-line Battle Armour suit with strong anti-armour capabilities which would likely cause high collateral damage instead of a known quantity like the Kage which could have made a precision strike and minimized the losses to the hostages. The DCMS rebukes the SLDF comments stating that while the losses among the hostages were regrettable the DCMS had intelligence that the hostages were equipped with weapons capable of damaging Battle Armour which made the use of Kage suits a risk to the success to the operation which was unacceptable.
DropShip Rubicon
Independent Colony, Fasa City
Fasa, Deep Periphery
14th July 3107
Following Operation Klondlike the original colony of Fasa taken over by the new Clans its people distributed moved to Strana Mechty and inducted into Clan society while the colony itself had been completely dismantled and the colony world abandoned. Over the course of the Clan withdrawal from the Clan Homeworlds people fleeing the Society had fallen back to Fasa re-establishing the colony. Now after all these years the colony had swelled to almost seventy-five thousand men women and children who wanted to live free of the Society and surprisingly the Society left the system be.
On board an ancient Overlord-class DropShip that had been built into the colony years before Star Colonel Alex fought with another member of the Clan in one of the converted Mechbays on board the ship the two attacking and countering each other. Off to the side an female in late forties, wearing a black and red jumpsuit entered and watched the two warriors spar. After a moment Alex became aware of the observer and fought harder against his opponent knocking the other man to the ground. The other warrior came back to his feet and bowed his surrender to Alex before turning and moving away. Alex moved over to a grey metal bench picking up a towel before moving over towards the woman “Galaxy Commander Schmitt I did not realize you were on planet.†He said greeting her
“Congratulations on your victory yesterday, Star Colonel, I see your wounds have healed.†She said glancing at the scar on his chest.
“I pulled the stitches a couple of times but I am ready for duty and to take the fight to the Society.â€
“Very good†she said looking at him “grab your top there is something I need to show you.†She said heading back out the door. Alex quickly grabbed his jacket and followed the Galaxy Commander through the DropShip and outside onto the snow covered street it seemed whatever planet he was on at the moment was in its winter cycle. “Do you know why Fasa works as a colony?â€
“Because there is nothing strategic here neither out Clan or the Society has attempted to gain dominance here these people do not care to fight for the Kerensky Cluster and the Society do not see them as a threat.â€
“But they have weapons†she pointed out the Rifleman IIC BattleMech standing at the end of the street was testimony to that. “They also have territory and JumpShips so why do we not fight over this world?â€
“I do not know Galaxy Commander†Alex said it felt strange mingling with the people of Fasa and feeling like he was a hundred light years from a threat there was no war. Since the conflict with the Society began there had been no war here.
“Of course you do not few of us know the full truth of Fasa†Schmitt admitted “today you join a small group that know the truth.†She said stopping in the middle of the street “look over there and tell me what you see.†She said indicating towards the restaurant which had been cut out of the side of another DropShip with a fabric canopy covering most of the seating area. Alex studied the seating area for several moments before seeing something, he looked a second time, he reached for his weapon before being stopped by Schmitt her hold on his arm strong and secure. “I see you realize what this place’s secret is?â€
“That is Scientist General Gibson the head of the Society’s Research and Development. He is responsible for the deaths of millions of citizens of the Kerensky Cluster.†Alex said his lock still firm on the weapon but Schmitt’s grip not lessening.
“Aff, he is a monster†she admitted “he is our enemy and we will not give up until he is dead and all of his kind are dead as well.†She said Alex could hear the anger in her voice. The young warrior felt a cold shiver pass over him as the Scientist General looked in their direction their eyes seemed to meet for a moment but Alex was sure he was actually looking directly at Karen Schmitt beside him. “We have an unspoken agreement with the Society, Alex, we do not bring war to Fasa and nor will they. We both need this world for trade and intelligence we learn things about the Society here and they learn things about our Clan here.â€
“How can we accept that?†He demanded the Clan had taken great lengths to keep their current base of operations a closely held secret even Alex who would soon command a Cluster would not know where the homeworld was.
“Because this place is a necessary evil†Schmitt admitted “every war has things that people will not agree with. They do not break any laws and are not morally wrong but there is always something that will not sit well with you.†She explained “this Compromise on Fasa is something that both us and the Society have to accept. It is not a choice do you understand Alex? If you come here representing our Clan and with your people there can be no retribution taken on the Society here. The people here are innocent of the war and it is to remain that way.â€
“As long as the Society keeps to their end of it†Alex said his grip loosening on his sidearm but his eyes not leaving Scientist General Gibson.
“They will until the bitter end†Schmitt said “now come, we need to eat but we won’t be eating with that bastard how about something from Circe?†She said keeping her grip on Alex’s arm drawing him away from their standoff with Gibson and into the main street of the bustling capital city of Fasa a world in the middle of a war but completely removed from it.
Briefing Room, Lyran High Command
Tharkad City, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
30th July 3107
Kelly Varnay nervously brushed at her dress uniform trying to clean off yet another speck of dirt off it. She had been summoned to Tharkad almost as soon as her unit had been pulled off the front-lines and back to Kaumberg while the rest of the unit had continued home she and her company commanders had been ordered to report to the High Command as soon as they arrived on Tharkad. Once they had arrived she had been escorted here to this briefing room where she waited. For the last thirty-four years she had done everything she had been expected to everything a Varnay would not do ever since her mother and uncle had smuggled her away from her father in the Federated Suns and into the Lyran Commonwealth. She knew her mother had tried to take her older sister Terra with them but she had refused to come scared of being uncovered they had run. Yet after all her efforts she was here, pacing the room Kelly looked around but took little of the room in, she was angry she had fought off the Stone Spirits and taken the initiative with actions that the generals could not take yet here she was. The doors opened and in entered General of Armies Aiden Grey who had re-established his full command of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces following the Stone Spirit crisis Kommandant Kelly Varnay instantly came to attention. The General closed the door behind him and looked her over for a moment “at east Kommandant†he ordered with a disarming smile “welcome to Tharkad.â€
“Thank you, sir, sir if I could speak for my actions that have led me to this point…†She began as Grey began to sit but the General raised his hand silencing her then turned it towards a chair opposite his indicating for her to sit
“I want to thank you Kommandant†he said as she sat Kelly Varnay looked stunned and remained silent. “The Rapid Response units were laughed at by the High Command when I first cleared their formation but your successes proved my faith in the concept so much so it has been decided that we will be raising further commands.†He said leaning back in his chair taking in the stunned silence from the younger woman opposite him. “I assume this is not how you expected today to go?†He asked all she did was nod “you are not your father†he said quietly realizing where at least some of this was coming from “I do not know how you feel about House Davion but you are a loyal daughter of the Lyran Commonwealth I can see that as can the Archon.†He said placing a small box on the table between them pushing it towards them “so as of this date you are a Leutenant-Colonel in the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. You will retain command of the First Fesnyng†he announced seeing her surprise “when you put the name on your official reports you have to expect it to catch on.â€
“Yes sir†she said wondering if he knew if the name referred to a number of ferrets together… but remained quiet she liked the name it described what her unit was a group that worked closely together and could fill each other’s rolls if required they worked as a tightly knit team.
“Your unit is rotating to York there it will train with further Fesnyng units and bring new flexibility to the LCAF.†He said finally surprising her as far as she was aware her unit had been rotated back to Kaumberg.
“What about the Kaumberg militia? They will be short staffed if my unit is not being reintegrated.â€
“We will take care of Kaumberg†he promised her. He said “I’d also like to show you this†he said pressing a control on the table activating the holo projector. This is a new DropShip design that was submitted to the LCAF for consideration.†He said the blue holographic image displayed an aerodyne type DropShip that was roughly oval in shape as it turned in front of her. Unlike most DropShips the ship appeared to have three distinct hull sections with the two wings spreading out from the nose and reconnecting at the rear of the ship leaving open space between the wings and the primary hull which appeared to be streamlined with multiple decks. At the rear of the ship there was a massive engine section. “We hope to develop this basic design into the Fesnyng-class DropShip specifically built to transport your new rapid response units combined with a single JumpShip we hope to make your units completely mobile able to respond to threats across our Commonwealth.†He said Kelly felt embarrassed she had thought she was coming to Tharkad to be disciplined for disobeying orders and taking the fight to the enemy but instead they had opened up so many opportunities for her and her people.
“Thank you for the opportunity sir†she finally said “we won’t let you down.â€
“I know you won’t†Aiden Grey said standing up as Kelly did the General of Armies extended his hand and they shook “you have our full support, Colonel, now go out and give the Commonwealth a new weapon.â€
-
Time for a little update
Hot Drop
Babylon, Pentagon Worlds
Deep Periphery
9th August 3107
“Okay listen up boys and girls the Fourteenth have been pushed, battered and beaten but they are still standing on Babylon.†Alex said sitting in his Conjurer’s cockpit as it was carried towards Babylon’s surface inside the DropShip. Alex glanced around the small cockpit of his fifty ton BattleMech looking for the worlds the BattleMech had never seen war, it was a brand-new variant of the Conjurer built within the last six months to support operations against the Society, it had no stories to tell and no words to give up. “We are all in this together let’s make sure the Fourteenth know that.†He commanded cutting off the link as the DropShip began to rumble as hit the atmosphere. “Here we go†he announced a couple of moments later looking at his sensors which were connected to the DropShip’s. Outside the DropShip aerospace fighters rose through the atmosphere heading towards the DropShip “at four hundred metres jumpers go, secure our LZ, the rest of us when we land we get out of the DropShip we hit the Society hard. We are going to locate the Fourteenth and allow them to ex-filtrate to the DropShip then we get ourselves out. I want you all to get back on board the DropShip.†He said as the DropShip came closer to the ground he knew if there was heavy Society resistance they wouldn’t all be coming back he’d already lost some as the aerospace fighters belonging to the Clan and to the Society continued to fight and die in the air.
“Jumpers go!†He commanded watching metres tick by from the DropShip’s Mechbay a binary of BattleMechs and OmniMechs, carrying a star of Power Armoured Elemental troops and a star of ProtoMechs dropped from the Overlord-C heading towards the ground. In an ideal world Alex would have had three full trinaries of OmniMechs to use from a DropShip of this size but this was not an ideal world instead all he had beyond what had just dropped from the DropShip was a second binary of ten ground-bound BattleMechs including his own Mech. Alex watched the sensor feed as the BattleMechs and ProtoMechs fell around them aerospace fighters circled and ready to pounce. Alex watched the sensors helpless as the Society aerospace fighters strafed his falling BattleMechs and ProtoMechs as they fell several of the battle armoured troopers, who were riding on board the OmniMechs, were knocked off the Mechs killed by the attack. “For the cause†Alex whispered so his microphone wouldn’t pick up the words then louder fortunately the Mechs had all survived but the Elementals that had been hit were gone “ground force stand-by†he said as the DropShip rocked to a landing “go, go, go!†He commanded throttling his BattleMech forward the Overlord’s doors opened as soon as the DropShip landed “Alpha Deployment, Alpha deployment!†He commanded moving his Conjurer onto the ground already a battle was fully engaged between the forces that had dropped in and the Society forces already on planet. Alex moved his BattleMech into the firing line immediately targeting a Septicemia OmniMech with his Conjurer’s LB X-class autocannon, short range lasers and one of his two large lasers. Immediately there was a small spike in heat in the cockpit but Alex was glad to see the right arm of the enemy Mech fall off the OmniMech a burned and broken shadow of what it was before.
Alongside Alex’s Conjurer an allied Shadow Hawk IIC stepped up alongside and unloaded its weapons into the target followed by the particle cannons from an Adder OmniMech. The combination of the three Clan Mechs targeting the single Septicemia brought the enemy OmniMech down quickly. “Adam, April kill it†he commanded the Shadow Hawk and Adder pilots the old laws of Zellbrigen had been forgotten by the Clan in its conflict with the Society neither of his sibmates ignored the command or hesitated. With the Septicemia dealt with Alex had a moment to look at his sensors and take stock of what was happening he saw there were at least two Society Treys in the immediate area. “Team One, step away from the line, we are a go†he said turning his BattleMech backwards turning away from the Society Mechs and towards the east “Team Two, keep the back door open Star Captain Jorgensson you are in command†he said. The operation was simple Alex’s team would locate what remained of the Fourteenth while the other group of Clan Mechs and Battle Armour would remain and defend the DropShip.
Around Alex a binary of BattleMechs and all of the remaining ProtoMechs ran through Babylon’s forests charging towards the last known position of the Fourteenth. “Lima Fourteen, I repeat Lima Fourteen, this is Lima Two, repeat Lima Two, we are on Gamma and ready for Echo. Charlie Oscar I repeat Charlie Oscar.†He called out on an open channel the code words were generalized and would be picked out by their enemy but it was all they could do. Smashing his fifty ton BattleMech through tree branches Alex caught a glance of something moving off to his right “Lima Fourteen?†He called out raising his Mech’s right arm which held the autocannon aiming it at the sighting.
“Down sir†the warrior said as Alex’s BattleMech cleared the trees the words hit Alex as if he had run into a brick wall. As his Conjurer cleared the trees he saw a battered sixty-five ton Ebon Jaguar bearing the Clan’s insignia barely standing after the beating it had taken.
“How many… how many are left?†Alex struggled scanning the area around the allied OmniMech.
“Twenty-one of us including a few support staff†the warrior said the words hit him as hard as the words confirming Mike Lassenem’s passing the Fourteenth had over one hundred staff including techs and support staff the command had been completely shattered in seven months of fighting against the Society. “Sir, Lassenem gave me the Intelligence file he said that you would come for it.â€
“We came for you†Alex said stepping his Mech forward allowing his words to sink in with the other pilot he was aware of another Mech in close proximity glancing at his sensors he saw it was Elrick’s Summoner. Alex switched comm. channels onto his own units “Elrick situation report†he commanded.
“Sir, fighters are holding the air but we are running out of time. We think there is the equivalent of a Society Cluster being mobilized to track down us and what is left of the Fourteenth.†The older warrior reported with Alex’s promotion to Cluster command Elrick had finally received his promotion to Star Captain making him one of Alex’s most senior warriors a fact that he often reminded the younger Star Colonel.
“There is not much left of the Fourteenth, we are pulling them out in one go. Pass word to orbit we will squeeze them into our DropShip†he commanded overloading the DropShip would be frowned on but given that he hadn’t come to Babylon with a full unit the additional units and people shouldn’t stress the old Overlord too much. He switched back to the general frequency “your people need to be ready to move now, Quiaff?â€
“Aff this way†the other warrior replied the broken Ebon Jaguar turning leading deeper into the undergrowth.
“Star Captain have our lighter elements spread out in this undergrowth their eyes will be more useful than our sensors. And pass to all of Team Two keep an eye on the Fourteenth something feels off.†He said watching the Ebon Jaguar move despite its damage the OmniMech was moving very smoothly and each time Alex tried to scan the OmniMech his Conjurer’s systems were jammed by interference something that shouldn’t happen between friendly units. The entered a clearing and Alex stopped short in the middle of the clearing there was Star Colonel Mike Lassenem’s Blood Asp OmniMech standing to attention facing an Osteon OmniMech painted in Society colours between the two OmniMechs was a pair of wires and hanging from the wires were bodies, at least two dozen of them.
“Your precious Fourteenth all that remains of Clan…†the Ebon Jaguar pilot began to say just as Alex triggered all of his weapons into the back of the heavy OmniMech. At this range there was no chance of missing the target every shot went straight into the back of the Ebon Jaguar knocking through the armour and internal structure shattering the fusion engine and gyro inside in seconds. Safety systems quickly activated powering down the OmniMech as it fell to the ground destroyed. Beside him Elrick was already firing on the Osteon but Alex could see more units coming in from in front of them and he could hear the ProtoMech pilots calling in that they were being engaged by Clan forces on all sides.
“Fall back all units fall back to the DropShip!†Alex screamed firing his autocannon, missiles and one of his large lasers as quickly as they would cycle was he began to pull back the Conjurer. “Star Captain I said fall back†Alex commanded seeing Elrick and two other Mechs accelerating forwards engaging the enemy.
“We will Colonel after you withdraw, you are the future of our Clan Alex, I am a solahma we are ready for this. FOR THE CAUSE!†Elrick shouted continuing to fire his weapons on the heavier Osteon. The massively armoured OmniMech standing up to the punishment as other Mechs arrived to support it Alex could see the bodies of the members of the Fourteenth had fall to the ground while the Blood Asp continued to stand strong.
“You stubborn old man†Alex cursed “none of you will not be forgotten†Alex promised Elrick continuing to withdraw as one of the Mechs standing with the Star Captain’s Summoner was knocked to the ground under fire from several Society units. “Team One firing retreat cover your partners let’s go†he said turning his Mech withdrawing into the undergrowth. Like the others Alex twisted his BattleMech’s turret styled torso to fire on the enemy units while withdrawing along an irregular route it made for a longer distance and slower retreat but it also made them a harder target. Elrick and the others fell quickly after Alex had withdrawn several of the ProtoMech pilots and two light BattleMechs had continuously attacked the incoming Society units keeping them off balance as they advanced it was suicide for Alex’s units but if they didn’t do it then none of them would escape.
Clearing the trees Alex turned directly towards the DropShip he saw many of the units he had left guarding the DropShip were already boarding the DropShip. “Star Captain Jorgennson you heard I assume?â€
“Aff, Star Colonel, nasty business.†The Elemental warrior confirmed Alex noted that he still stood outside the DropShip along with most of the battle armour.
“Is our own nasty business in place?†Alex asked he noticed a simple green light acknowledgement from Jorgennson and assumed the Elemental was busy talking to someone else so continued. “Understood, when you are ready Star Captain Jorgennson deliver our presents.†Alex commanded seeing the last of his units return to the landing zone. Moments later the entire tree line for three hundred metres in every direction was engulfed in a massive napalm explosion the fire would burn for three days if not tackled by the Society and would be enough to keep all but the most nimble of enemy units at bay. “There is nothing left for us here all units withdraw. They have won today but we will win this war.†Alex said with Mike Lassenem’s death the words felt hollow they had failed to recover any intelligence for the planet, failed to rescue any members of the Fourteenth and failed to ex-filtrate one of their Clan’s most respected Cluster commanders. This was a defeat on every level and today Alex was not sure if even he believed they could stop the Society perhaps the Clans were right perhaps their future was in the Inner Sphere.
Mechbay, Twin Sons Defence Base
Badlands, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
13th August 3107
Forty-two cadets stood in lines to attention in front of several defence Mechs of the Twin Sons Defence Forces among the cadets stood Petra Furey, daughter of Michael and Sandra Furey. Over the years the Twin Sons had united and divided more than ever with the Northern and Southern factions had warred as often as they had supported the reborn Free Worlds League. While on Twin Sons the remnant Smoke Jaguar population who remained on the planet had become more and more radical in their beliefs that a single unifying force was needed to control the Twin Sons something Petra’s father Michael Furey had tried to control them over the years. Petra knew that the Jaguar WarShip Streaking Mist had successfully avoided falling under the control of the Free Worlds League and the Twin Sons governments and there was a growing contingent of warriors who believed in the Smoke Jaguar way.
As defacto leaders of the Smoke Jaguars and by extension of the Badlands Michael and Sandra Furey attempted to keep the peace on Twin Sons and had directed Petra towards the united defence force of the planet instead of supporting the Smoke Jaguars or Badlands forces with the intention that she could be the glue that held their world together. Standing with the other cadets in the Mechbay Petra realized she didn’t care about being the glue looking up at the lead BattleMech of the Second Twin Sons Regiment, a fifty ton Uziel, she realized all she wanted to do was pilot a BattleMech and the rest would fall into place as she desired. Either side of her stood other cadets from all across the Twin Sons each of them desired the same thing each of them had dreamed of being a MechWarrior and now they were here they had their chance.
Counter-attack
Schuyler, Alberio Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
18th August 3107
MechWarrior Shauni Hartford’s stomach was in bits as the DropShip entered the atmosphere fourteen hours before the Fourth Amphigean Legion’s JumpShip had jumped into a pirate point in the Schuyler system and released their four DropShips heading for the planet. They had passed the dispersing wreckage of the DCS Dedication of Duty and then made the high G burn towards the planet for fourteen hours the MechWarriors and armour crews had tried to rest inside their Mechs and vehicles as the DropShips burned towards the planet.
The DropShip rocked heavily as it dropped through towards Schuyler Shauni didn’t know if it was because of the turbulence or if it was because of attacks from Fire Mandrill Aerospace units but she knew that soon it would be over and they’d be on the ground or they’d be dead. The DropShip rocked almost constantly as the altitude decreased the lights in front of Shauni’s BattleMech began to blink orange giving her a countdown to the planet’s surface. Suddenly the Mechbay lights turned green and the Mechdoors opened allowing the MechWarriors to exit. Shauni stepped her Ha Otoko 3 BattleMech forwards towards the exit door immediately stepping into a barrage of autocannon fire which had been targeted on the DropShip doors as the Fire Mandrills attempted to contest the landing zones. Shauni sighted an enemy BattleMech, a Fire Mandrill Crimson Langur OmniMech, and let rip with both of her Mech’s arm mounted extended range large lasers immediately following up with a volley of long range missiles from both torso launchers.
“All MechWarriors hold the perimeter until our armour and infantry disembark†Tai-sa Kusunoki Masashige commanded as his Hatamoto-Chi stepped out of the DropShip immediately being hit by a long range missile volley ripping open the torso armour. Masashige returned fire with his particle cannons into the undergrowth targeting a Mandrill Macaque armoured vehicle blowing through its armour burning off the ammunition bay the vehicle’s CASE was the only thing that saved the vehicle sending the blast through the rear and side of the vehicle. It was out of the fight but the crew would fight another day. Shauni got back to her own battle targeting a Fire Mandrill Shadow Cat targeting the OmniMech with two barrages of long range missiles she saw several of the missiles slamming into the OmniMech’s cockpit glass which shattered inwards the Shadow Cat stumbled and then fell to the ground without its pilot. Off to her right the Crimson Langur reappeared firing a red large laser blast and twin opal heavy laser blasts into the side of Shauni’s BattleMech causing heavy armour damage destroying the large laser and medium laser in her Mech’s right arm. She twisted the torso of the damaged Mech and raised the left arm firing the remaining two lasers and both long range missile launchers at the OmniMech while accelerating her Mech trying to avoid a second salvo of laser fire from the Crimson Langur this time the right leg took the brunt of the fire melting away the armour there.
“Inferno missiles on the east and southern flanks lay down cover fire and smoke we are falling back to the North West. The Order is ABADON repeat ABADON.†Kusunoki Masashige commanded as his BattleMech took several autocannon blasts followed by more missile strikes. The order for ABADON stated that the landing zone was lost and all remaining forces were to escape to fight an irregular battle at a later date. Shauni ignored the order for a moment firing on the Crimson Langur again burning away more of the armour on the fifty ton OmniMech more laser blasts tore into the side of the Ha Otoko as the Mandrill pilot returned fire shattering her BattleMech’s knee actuator. “Strike four ABADON†Kusunoki ordered her directly seeing she still stood where she was firing at the enemy OmniMech. Kusunoki opened fire with his own particle cannons smashing the Crimson Langur’s right leg Shauni opened fire with her own lasers targeting the left leg knocking the Mandrill OmniMech to the ground disabled.
“Negative Tai-sa, I will be standing rearguard with you, leg actuator damage†she said seeing that his BattleMech had not moved from the DropShips.
“Understood then we buy them enough time to escape†he commanded “cover the right I have the left†he said she noticed there was a few of the heaviest vehicles which were remaining in position as well their crews knowing that there was no way for them to escape. The fighting seemed to go on for hours with the two BattleMechs and six armoured vehicles holding position firing on the Fire Mandrills as they swarmed the landing zones. When she ran out of missiles Shauni continued to fire her lasers and AP Gauss rifle until they too had been disabled or the ammunition was gone. Kusunoki continued to stand against everything that the Mandrills threw at his Mech but even the Tai-sa’s BattleMech could not take the damage that was being thrown at him. The Tai-sa’s Hatamoto-Chi exploded behind her Ha Otoko the blast knocking her BattleMech to the ground twisting her broken right leg disabling the BattleMech with no ammunition and her BattleMech immobile Shauni drew her Katana the blade of a warrior ready to die with honour but this fight was not her end. As the Combine vehicles were disabled Mandrill Power Armour units moved in to mop up what remained with Shauni locked inside her cockpit the Mandrill warriors detonated concussion blasts on the outside of the BattleMech knocking the MechWarrior out without killing her.
With complete air superiority the Fire Mandrill aerospace fighters were able to attack the retreating DCMS units for hours causing damage and harrying the Fourth Ampigean Leion as it retreated from the LZ. But despite the Fire Mandrill successes at the landing zone two combined-arms battalions of Draconis Combine troops were able to escape into the wilderness of Schuyler prepared to resist the Clan invaders until their last breath.
Meeting Room, Ken’s Authentic Chinese Cuisine
Chinatown, New Canton
Star League Protectorate
21st August 3107
In the backroom of a small restaurant in New Canton’s Chinatown district the Federated Suns DMI representative was escorted by local gang members into the rear room where he saw the single occupant already waited. Sitting at the table was an individual dressed in a green power armour suit with the helmet still on concealing his identity while on the table were two Sternsnatch Slug thrower Pistols the DMI agent was not dressed for combat wearing a simple black suit and black sunglasses so he chose the diplomatic route. “Mr Grant†the agent said looking at the suit “I did not expect to see you here in person is the Star League aware you are here?†He asked the trooper remained completely silent “come now Mr Grant we know it is you inside that suit you spoiled the mystique of the Bounty Hunter by that little stunt on Robinson. We were quite impressed that you stayed within the AFFS for so long to complete that job.†He said moving around the trooper who still remained silent. “I am wondering why you called for this meeting? You must know that the Federated Suns will never forgive you for the assassination of Tancred Sandoval.†He said stepping back towards the door “now Mr Grant tell me why I am here or it is time for me to leave.â€
“I do not know why you think I am this Grant you are speaking about†the Power Armour suited trooper said standing up the voice was distinctly feminine. “If you refer to Christopher Grant he was simply an agent of mine†she said stepping forwards placing her hand on the agent’s shoulder gripping the expensive suit the DMI man wore.
“Then I apologies†the man said turning around the Bounty Hunter allowing their hand to slip off his shoulder “my name is Smith a pleasure to meet you†he said removing his sunglasses revealing piercing blue eyes underneath “you are still an enemy of the Federated Suns.â€
“Convenient†the Bounty Hunter replied
“Convenient?†The agent asked surprised by the Bounty Hunter’s reaction.
“Yes†the figure answered “I am your friend when I complete a contract for the Federated Suns to kill someone, which I have done many times,†they said walking around Agent Smith “but when I complete a contract for a Federated Suns citizen I am your enemy.â€
“You murdered a March Lord!†Smith snapped
“His position had nothing to do with the contract†the Bounty Hunter replied reaching over slipping a small data disk into the Agent’s top pocket “it was entirely a family affair.†The Bounty Hunter said stepping around the Agent again “the person who took out this contract believed that they could rule the Draconis March better than Tancred Sandoval’s children they wanted to serve the Federated Suns in a greater capacity.â€
“By having someone killedâ€
“Come now Agent Smith we have already agreed that the Federated Suns has contracted the Bounty Hunter to kill people in the past. House Davion has killed many people in the past the only difference between House Davion ordering someone killed and me killing someone is I do it for money it is simple business.†The Bounty Hunter said stepping towards the door “I want to continue to do business with the Federated Suns but it is up to you.†They said finally before disappearing out the door. Smith reached for his concealed communicator to alert the other DMI agents but found it was jammed instead he reached for the disk and pushed it into the top slot on the communicator glancing over the first few pages of the contract the Bounty Hunter had revealed. If what Smith had read on the disk was true then he was quite relieved that the communicator was jammed now the DMI had work to do to verify the findings.
Training Room, Clan Staging Area
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Deep Periphery
23rd August 3107
Alex screamed as his boot connected with the combat-helmet sending it across the room. He was alone in the training room and had been alone for most of the last two weeks as he had tried to get over the loss of the Fourteenth and Mike Lassenem. Grief was not something that warriors were supposed to dwell on but he couldn’t help himself he walked over to the gear rack and threw another helmet across the room trying to vent some of the anger he was feeling.
“Do you intend on breaking everything on this base?†Star Colonel David Nostra, the base commander, asked. David Nostra, a former Nova Cat warrior, was completely calm at Alex’s attitude.
“Perhaps†Alex admitted not looking at the other man “why not?â€
“Because it is not something that an officer or a bloodnamed warrior should be doing†Nostra said noting Alex’s recent victory in the bloodname contest for Mike Lassenem’s Bloodname. “You have a legacy to uphold Star Colonel.â€
“Some legacy†Alex said looking back at David Nostra “what exactly are we David? A hodgepodge collection of former clan warriors who have come together to what die slowly?†He said angrily “we can’t win this!†He said angrily
“As long as the homeworld remains hidden we can survive†David said calmly “we are one Clan, we agreed to follow one Khan, and we stand against the Society where all else have fallen. For the Cause.†He said repeating the words that all Clan warriors knew to heart Alex Lassenem nodded he was no longer a member of the Hell’s Horses Clan he along with all others had given up that right when the other Clans withdrew from the Homeworlds they were now under one banner.
“We have another mission for your unit†David Nostra said “if you are ready for it then follow me.†He said without another words turning towards the exit. Alex looked at the two combat helmets still lying on the floor for a moment before leaving following the other Star Colonel. David Nostra moved through the small complex and down into the Mechbay walking along past the Clan Mechs that were sitting in their bays silent waiting for their pilots they walked straight past Alex’s Conjurer to the furthest area of the Mechbay. David Nostra stopped in front of a trio of Osteon OmniMechs which had been captured from the Society.
“What are we doing here?†Alex demanded barely able to look at the Osteon remembering the OmniMech from the death of Mike Lassenem and the Fourteenth.
“This is going to be your new Mech while two others will pilot the other Mechs and three other warriors will pilot other captured Society designs. Your mission will take you into Society territory on Babylon impersonating a Society escort force†David Nostra said Alex dreaded returning to that world “we are going to send you in front of a major offensive against the Society. Your people will try to gather the intelligence we failed to get from the Fourteenth†he explained seeing Alex’s reaction “I know… before you say anything it was not the fault of the Fourteenth but they attempted to approach it as a Clan unit collecting intelligence as we do. We need you to think out of the box. Think as a Society unit does and gather strike data for our forces to exploit in an all out assault on Babylon.â€
“We do not have the resources to capture and hold Babylon†Alex said in fact they did but it would take all of their remaining WarShips and the majority of their ground forces to capture and hold the planet and even then it would be only for a couple of days then Society reinforcements would arrive and the planet would be lost once more.
“You are correct but we can hit Babylon at the right time. Overwhelm the defenders in that particular region and complete our mission.†David Nostra explained
“What is the target?â€
“That is need to know†David Nostra explained
“Need to know? I will be the man on the ground when this happens I need to know.†Alex snapped angrily “if you do not tell me I will challenge you and defeat you in a Circle of Equals for the information.†He said he was a clan warrior and would stand by these actions.
“How do you know that I know the ultimate objectives?†David Nostra asked his words and actions were very unclan-like but then these were unclan-like times. The Star Colonel looked around the bay as if afraid someone who shouldn’t be was listening he looked back at Alex and spoke in a hushed tone “your mission will expose a weakness in the Society’s structure and set them back years if all goes to plan, that’s all I can say.†He said Alex didn’t like it but didn’t say anything further instead he looked at three powerful Osteons.
“How will we be inserted into the Society? They would expect something if we were to suddenly appear on Babylon.†He finally asked.
“You will be inserted into a Society relief column here on Barcella. Your Mechs and others will replace those defending the convoy and then you will be shipped off to Babylon. We’ve created fake Society papers for your travel they will pass customs on Barcella and by the time you are on Babylon no-one will know who should have been piloting those Mechs.†He said confidently Alex wasn’t convinced all they needed was for one of the warriors to have contacted someone on Babylon privately and everything would be bust as soon as they got there. “From there you will be under control of the Society your orders will be to gain intelligence on their operations and be ready to support our offensive operations.†David Nostra said informing him of what parts of the operation he was aware of. “You and the others will be given a drop-box location to leave intelligence but otherwise you will be on your own on Babylon as all of our other assets have been compromised or eliminated.â€
“Spy work is not work for a Clan warrior†Alex Lassenem grumbled he had no training for this he was a warrior he confronted things with weapons and with his fists not behind closed doors and with cloaks and daggers.
“Conventional Clan tactics are not effective enough. The only military options that would be effective are Nuclear Biological or Chemical weapons or orbital bombardment. I think you’ll agree Star Colonel Quiaff?â€
“Aff†Alex agreed “I suggest Star Captain Jorgensson takes command of the Cluster while I am on… detached duty.†He said finally looking back at the OmniMechs again it was not an ideal situation but perhaps it was for the best.
Ambush
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Deep Periphery
26th August 3107
The Clan forces on Barcella watched as the convoy moved into position through a shallow canyon as expected it was being escorted by three Osteons, two Septicemias and one Cephalus the exact composition of Alex’s substitute force. Alex watched the Society forces move close “All units execute battle plan.†He commanded as they entered the target area. From all sides Clan units of various sizes engaged the six enemy Mechs with almost every weapon that a fighting unit could carry. Even the robust nature of the Society OmniMechs was not enough to protect them from the amount of weapons fire directed on them all six were rapidly neutralized while Electronic Counter Measures covering the area blocked any transmissions. “Elementals move in secure the transports, clean up teams remove the wreckage I want no sign of our fighting here.†He commanded from the undergrowth. “Mimic team move in†he said the five other warriors in captured Society OmniMechs moved out of their concealed positions and approached the six supply vehicles taking up the escort positions that had been occupied by the defenders before Alex could see plenty of mistakes with the defensive positions but decided to retain the Society positions.
“Boss, the drivers are Barcella natives who just want to survive this thing, they will take you to the DropShips without issue. I have got teams shadowing you if things go wrong we will pull you out before anything goes wrong.†Star Captain Matt Jorgensson said Alex could see his Battle Armour suit jumping down from one of the vehicles. “Good luck sir†he said Alex noted that the young Elemental did not say what would happen if things went wrong when they were onboard the DropShip mainly because by then it would be too late Alex checked his gauss pistol was still concealed in the cockpit glad to find it exactly where he had stashed it. Even if the Society techs found it the weapon wouldn’t stand out plenty of MechWarriors had small arms hidden in their cockpits to be used as a last ditch defence for them if the cockpit was breached or if they needed. Alex couldn’t help but feel a little apprehensive about the mission which was largely still an unknown but it was what the Clan needed to do and he would do everything he could to make sure it happened.
-
Royal Medical Wing, Steiner Royal Palace
Arcturus, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd September 3107
In the Royal Palace of House Steiner Archon Jessica Steiner gives birth to her third daughter Trillian Steiner by Admiral Patrick Doyle. Both mother and child are well, with their borders at peace and economy booming Jessica Steiner has her highest approval rating since taking over as leader of the Lyran Commonwealth.
Capellan Offensive
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
11th September 3107
Even with the Federated Suns conquering five systems and striking at several more the Capellan Confederation continue their assaults on the District of Oriente striking at five further systems. As Oriente’s defences crumble the District of Regulus steps into the action repelling the Capellan Confederation in several systems. The Oriente forces take it one step further completely taking control over the Maritgues and Shenwan system from Oriente forces engaging the Fifth Oriente Hussars in both systems.
As heavy fighting continues on Minerton and Mansu-ni the Fifth Oriente Hussars withdraw from the worlds taken by Regulus while Duke Jonas Halas submits a formal request for the attacks on Oriente to be heard on Atreus by Parliament.
Khan’s Office, Raven Enclave
Famindas, Alpheratz
Raven Alliance
14th September 3107
“President Orton is here to see you my Khan.†The lower casteman said introducing the visitor Vir Sukhanov nodded and put aside the report he had been reading as his aide ushered in the older man. Prime Minister Orton was the elected head of the Civilian government that the Outworlders insisted on retaining as part of their alliance with Clan Snow Raven. In his 60’s and no longer quite as fit as he had been when he was an aerospace pilot the Minister had the respect of the people and was a savvy operator.
“Khan Sukhanov, thank you for seeing me.†President Rodger Orton said as he crossed the office, sitting down without being invited to. Technically he and the Khan were of the same position but the breech of protocol irked the Khan.
“President, thank you for answering my summons at such short notice, I will get to the point I know you are angry about the setbacks that we suffered in our conflict against the Combine…â€
“The disaster we just suffered.†Orton interrupted his eyes hard, anger evident in his tone. “A dozen worlds under the heel of the Combine! A squadron lost! Entire military units gutted! Do you have any idea of how hard it is going to be to put this across to the people? People who are cut off from relatives…†He said composing himself for a moment “people who have lost relatives. This world and many of our most important are now a jump or two from Combine attack thanks to this debacle! And the casualties! Entire defence force units wiped out, hundreds killed, including my two eldest SONS!†Khan Sukhanov had the good grace to wince. He recalled that the Ministers eldest served upon the Thor.
“No that you’d understand that of course! And now we’ve got to find some way out of this mess!â€
“Are you done?†Khan Sukhanov said, his voice level, cold. If this man was of the Clan he would have challenged him to a Trial of Grievance here and now, but he stayed his hand as much as it pained the Khan the Snow Ravens needed the Outworlds more than ever and that included this old warrior.
“I know of our military failings and I now wish to speak to you about the political fallout. I know that many of your Ministers are unhappy, and that the populace is also understandably angered and even afraid that the Dragon will strike again. Whilst we shall rebuilt our military strength, I want to discuss how to please the populace.â€
“Remove the Combine from the three worlds closest to our core for a start.†Orton replied, his eyes still hot.
“Steps are underway regarding that, but I have other measures in mind too.†The Khan said he didn’t want to start another conflict with the Combine, not yet anyway; his Clan needed time to learn from the mistakes that had been made in their last conflict before their next.
“And what if you are challenged and defeated? Will these measures remain in place or be forgotten and cast aside?â€
“Aff, I am aware of the anger within my ranks, if I am challenged then so be it but in the here and now I am prepared to take steps to improve our position.â€
“Oh of course that’s the easy way out for you.†Ortan said angrily it was so simple in the Clan approach “I’ve got an election to fight and win…†He said an election that he was not convinced that he could defeat the newest member of the Avellar family Joshua Avellar son of Mitchell Avellar and rising star in the Alliance.
“A battle you will fight and no doubt come out victorious in. The people like you.â€
“Hmph, you seek to flatter me Khan Sukhanov.â€
“Neg, I am merely stating the truth.â€
“So your ideas?â€
“I was speaking with my Merchant and Science Factors and we believe that we can recover but in truth we cannot do it alone. We need your support, your assistance.â€
“More labour caste inductees you mean?â€
“Neg, we will work together to overcome this threat and walk from this moment of weakness stronger. And, side by side.â€
“We will increase asteroid mining as well as scouting systems formerly belonging to the Alliance in the period prior to the Reunification War. Most were abandoned during the Succession Wars but could be made viable and ripe for exploitation.†Ortan suggested thinking about how they could improve their position with the Ravens.
“I have ordered my Factors to immediately cancel the division of technology between our and your industry it will take time but all of our people will be able to produce Clan grade technology in greater amounts. We will work as well to improve all of our troops equipment with modern equipment and better training. This will increase our fighting strength and redress most of the complaints from the volunteers about their equipment.â€
This took the wind out of Orton’s sails slightly and he leaned forwards “Your Warriors won’t be happy with the decision.â€
“If they disagree then they can challenge me and I will defeat them.†Sukhanov said raising from his chair “but this is not enough†he said looking at Orton I want to reorganize the Alliance military units into Clan Galaxies†Sukhanov said seeing Orton’s surprise “the disparity in organisation ends between the Outworlds and Snow Ravens we end decades of separation and truly become the Raven Alliance.†He said stepping back to the desk standing beside the table.
“And the Factors agreed to this?â€
“Chief Scientist McLarren did, Factor Jonas did not, and his replacement was quick to change his stance on this.â€
“I…see…â€
“The Ravens…miss-stepped with our decision to keep our technology from you, it takes a long time for us to trust when your people have earned that trust in blood, then we should not hold back any more.†Khan Sukhanov said, pausing to take a sip from his cup of tea.
“We cannot be the Raven Alliance as long as the Snow Ravens remain in their enclaves cut off from the rest of our population.†Orton complained the Raven civilian and scientific population remained in their enclaves on Alpheratz, Dante and Quatre Belle or were restricted to their Floating Enclaves on other worlds isolated from the rest of the population.â€
“We will resolve this isolation†Sukhanov promised “beginning on Alpheratz our enclaves here will be opened on a limited basis and I will encourage our population to mingle more with the rest of the Alliance. I also propose to give the Outworld volunteers their own DropShips, much like the System Rangers of old, and they will patrol the alliance and ensure its protection.†He said deciding to share his next plan with the Alliance leader “they will be coordinated by the Raven Watch and they will be paid in line with front-line warriors of our military. Factor Hobbs thinks that this change to the employment will boost productivity and result in a greater take of taxes. Of course the Labour Caste is always willing to accept Outworld volunteers and any will be tested and placed in a position that suits their abilities.â€
“Why now?â€
“Because we need to survive.†He admitted the Raven civilian population was nowhere near as large as it had been in the Homeworlds and their Touman was smaller. I do not wish to see my Clan extinguished any more than you do seeing your people under the Combines control. If these reforms are enacted, within six years, perhaps less, we will never have to worry about an outside threat again.â€
“You know something Khan Sukhanov, if I’d known that the way to get you to bloody well listen was to come in here and yell at you… I’d have done it months ago.â€
“We live and learn, of course where I my predecessor, he would have killed you myself for your insolence and your use of contractions. If you were of the Clans I would have already killed you myself. Your approach was. However, bold… direct, and with fire I would not expect from a man of your age.â€
“Where I twenty five or thirty years younger I would meet you in battle if I had to†he said chuckling “but I am an old man whose fighting days are behind him. And regarding your predecessor, bah, he was a brute with all the leadership skill of a school yard bully. You are far wilier, and if you are challenged… I hope you win.â€
Fire Mandrill Held Territory
Schuyler, Alberio Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
20th September 3107
Natasha Faraday watched in satisfaction as yet another building came tumbling down before turning her 100-ton Kirghiz-G OmniMech slightly to the left and began destroying another building with her ‘Mech’s two large ER Lasers. Around her and all across the system, other Fire Mandrill Warriors were doing the same. All were intent on destroying the military industrial facilities in the system.
Natasha shrugged she knew that the Combine would hate her Clan for this and the Inner Sphere would want less dealings with her people because of it but it was a small price to pay all things considered. Khan Magnusson wanted her Clan to destroy any factory the Mandrills left behind she didn’t like that the Bears were dictating to her either but she needed Bear authority to travel through their space to return home. What would have been an annoying job soon became a relaxing experience, as her Mandrills released their pent-up stress from having to deal with annoying Dragons who continued to raid the area her Mandrills controlled
All things considered, their raid was about to be considered a success. The Mandrills had successfully traveled across the Inner Sphere, captured Schuyler, and as of earlier in the day finally withdrawn everything they had wanted from the system. Namely the Behemoth DropShip yards on the planet and both JumpShip yard docks over Schuyler which were damaged but still worth the trip. A very nice haul, she knew, but without the still-missing K-F drive plant that was all the raid was a nice haul.
“Fire Lead, Snarling Mandrill Actual,†the voice of Star Captain Ethan, the Warrior in charge of her supernova’s DropShip, piped through her radio.
“Go ahead,†she responded as she noted absently her targeted building exploding.
“RCJS Philandering Langur just reported in,†she noted the mirth in the other Warrior’s deep voice and quickly became interested.
“And what exactly did they report? Ethan,†she asked, playing the older Warrior’s game.
“Nothing beyond the usual,†she heard him relay back through the radio. “You know, empty asteroid here, another empty asteroid there. And, by the way, they found a Germanium-rich asteroid.â€
“A Germanium asteroid!†she yelled in shock through the radio. By the yelp on the other end, she blushed, knowing she yelled too loud. “Sorry,†she grumbled out, still thinking of the find. Germanium was often used as the core of K-F drives.
“No worries,†the older man replied cheerfully through the radio. “I was already holding the headset away from me when you yelled.†Natasha blushed deeper. “I bet half the ship heard you through the radio,†he teased.
Natasha shook her head. “Have the RCJS Philandering Langur investigate that asteroid at once,†she ordered into the radio.
“Already done so, on your behalf,†he instantly replied.
“Good,†Natasha answered her long time confidant and friend. “Patch any and all reports from the RCJS Philandering Langur immediately to me, quiaff?â€
“Will do,†he answered her. A second later, she heard a sharp click, signalling Ethan had ended the connection over his end.
She allowed her a big smile, for she hoped her Clan would finally grab what they and the Collection really needed the missing K-F drive plant. Abandoning the planet to the remaining Combine raiders It took the Mandrills another week to remove the crippled factory. It would likely cost the Mandrills a lot in trade to get the plant operational again once they returned back to the Rim Collection but Faraday had gotten what she wanted, what her Clan needed to survive, the ability to manufacture new JumpShips it meant that losing JumpShips in the future would not cripple her Clan’s transport capabilities. With all they wanted from the system the Mandrills withdrew before further DCMS forces arrived to take control over the system.
Clan Raids
Arcturus Theatre, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
25th September 3107
Despite much to celebrate in the Lyran Commonwealth the peace on the border is shattered as Clan Hell’s Horses raid Rasalgethi and Clan Coyote invade Fort Loudon. Both Clans deploy multiple Clusters supported by WarShips to each system and they quickly overwhelm the Third and Eleventh Arcturan Guards RCTs who were based in the systems once again the Elite Horde Clusters of the Fire Horse Galaxy lead the way for Clan Hell’s Horses. Between the two units over four regiments of BattleMech, Armour and Infantry are destroyed by the Clan forces before the remaining Arcturan Guards are allowed to retreat from the systems.
Fifth Yokosuka, DCS Kukhuri (Kyushu-class Frigate)
Gonthorn, Nova Cat Occupation Zone
28th September 3107
Space around the Nadir Point of the Gonthorn system was ablaze as the Draconis Combine attempted to liberate the world from Clan Nova Cat. Pilot Trevor Day breathed heavily as his Stinger LAM was dropped from its launch bay on board the DCS Kukhuri along with the rest of the Fifth Yokosuka. Their intelligence had been wrong they had expected to find a Nova Cat corvette in the system instead they had found a corvette and a Battle-cruiser. As Trevor’s LAM dropped into the black massive explosions rocked his Stinger as naval autocannon fire from the Nova Cat WarShip Santin West exploded around him he threw his fighter to the right and to the left trying to avoid the explosions behind him Naval Particle Cannons slammed into the front and side of the Kyushu-class Frigate behind him.
“Coriana Six to Reaper, Reaper do you read†he called out looking for his company commander as he continued to turn Trevor saw that Nova Cat fighters and DropShips were swarming the Kukhuri with still no answer from Reaper he tried a general call on the Draconis Combine frequency “Coriana Six to any SNLF unit come in!†He called out as a Nova Cat one hundred ton Hun OmniFighter dived past his Stinger Trevor turned to follow the assault fighter but immediately found the craft’s after pulse lasers slamming into his left wing melting the armour there. Turning away from the Hun Trevor turned straight into the Nova Cat’s wingman autocannon fire ripped through the space near the Stinger followed by further pulse lasers slamming into the side of the Stinger. “Corianna Six I need assistance repeat, I need…†Trevor’s call for assistance was cut short as a second burst of autocannon fire tore through the underside of the Stinger shattering the armour plating and shielding around the small fighter causing what was in the grander scheme of the battle a small almost insignificant explosion but one that was large enough to kill Trevor Day.
The young pilot was not the first to die in the battle and certainly wasn’t the last with the Nova Cats swarming the DCS Kukhuri and jamming the communications the battle was going from bad to worse rapidly. The Nova Cat Battle-cruiser was closing on the Combine Frigate pounding the smaller vessel with a relentless barrage of naval particle cannon, autocannon and laser fire splitting the hull open in several places. Less than thirty minutes after the Draconis Combine forces had entered the system the Fifth Yokosuka Special Naval Landing Force Regiment was decimated, the DCS Kukhuri was disabled and under the control of Clan Nova Cat and the rest of the Combine ground forces had been driven back.
-
I felt like writing today, first time in ages I've just felt like writing the whole day, so here's the next update
Raid
Milos, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate
2nd October 3107
For the last three weeks Milos had been raided four times by unidentified raiders using designs native to the Capellan Confederation and Federated Suns. So far the Star League Defence Forces defending the planet had been unable to pin down the raiders but today things would be different two days before Star League Early Warning Satellites had detected two DropShips entering the atmosphere. Instead of waiting for the raiders to attack combat commands from the Third Kittery Regimental Brigade, a unit locally known as Stone’s Revenants, and the First Milos Planetary Guard Regiment had been deployed across the planet waiting for contact. “Break, Break, Break contact with enemy units in sector fourteen†the call came across the radio alerting the troops who were waiting.
“Sir, we will be engaging soon remain near your protective detail†Major Leo Hayworth said over their private channel.
“I know what I am doing, Major, I will not get in the way†Protector-General Devlin Stone said from the cockpit of his customized Atlas II the leader of the Kittery Prefecture had insisted with personally facing off against the raiders.
“Contact to the east a pair of Men Shens!†Someone called as weapons fire was exchanged between the Third Kittery and the raiders.
“A pair of Emperors and a couple of Stealth designs as well†another MechWarrior called out. “We have aerospace fighters as well†he called out as two aerospace fighter’s strafed their position.
“That’s fine so do we. All units this is Hayworth hold down your sectors and open fire; our aerospace fighters will be in position in the next couple of minutes we just have to hold on…â€
“This is our world, this is our home, they are not welcome here†Devlin Stone said as his one hundred ton Atlas II and its escorting lance moved forwards “we will hold this ground because we are the ones who live here, we are the ones who have shed sweat, tears and blood making this world what it is today.†He said opening fire on an enemy BattleMech with his Mech’s lasers and autocannon tearing the arm off of a nearby Phoenix Hawk knocking the lighter BattleMech to the ground. Moments later fire from another of Stone’s Mechs blew the Phoenix Hawk to pieces as autocannon, missiles and lasers tore the stricken BattleMech to pieces. Stone had not stopped and was now wading into battle against one of the Emperors even as SLDF aerospace fighters filled the skies driving the enemy craft from the air “if you don’t believe me believe them†Stone continued raising his BattleMech’s arms to the sky momentarily “our Angels are looking out for us!†He said as his BattleMech landed blow after blow against the Emperor while avoiding the return fire Major Hayworth watched in awe as the Atlas II literally danced its way around the enemy BattleMech doing far more damage than it was taking the Emperor pilot seemingly incapable of landing a proper hit on the Atlas II.
With Stone’s elite bodyguard lance with them the SLDF Battalion quickly repulsed the attack on Milos destroying all of the attacking BattleMechs and vehicles while some of the aerospace fighters escaped a majority were destroyed. Infantry teams checking wreckage after the battle found that none of the enemy pilots had survived the battle several had taken their own lives while others were completely missing leading the identity of the attackers a mystery.
AFFS Assaults
Sarna Commonality, Capellan Confederation
8th October 3107
With the Capellan Confederation still focused on the District of Oriente the AFFS High Command had ordered assaults to continue on the remains of the Sarna Commonality with the Fourth Capellan Defence Force, the Seventh Capellan Armoured Cavalry, the Heart of Courage Mercenary Battalion and the Fighting Tigers Combined-arms Regiment on No Return a prime target. Field Marshal Neela Black, the commander of the Sixth Davion Guards, entered the briefing room on board the WarShip FSS Bravery, a First Prince II-class Battleship, and looked at her fellow unit commanders. “Ladies and Gentlemen we will be striking at No Return the Capellans have no known capital units in the area but we are expecting assault DropShip forces so the Bravery will be providing us with an escort and fire support.†She began moving around the table activating a holographic display to show the world of No Return. “We are aware of four distinct commands on No Return all of which have been gearing up for an assault on Sarna attempting to wrest the world back from the District of Oriente. Considering Oriente’s current precarious position I think Sarna would fall quickly to a decisive assault.†She said many of them were surprised that the Federated Suns was not striking at Sarna instead of picking up worlds from the Confederation. “My Guards are probably the most inexperienced command here†she said looking around the other commanders “I can understand the question marks over their participation but the only way they will learn is to act with the best commands in the Federated Suns which I believe I am alongside.†She said attempting to make peace with the other commanders she needed them to understand that she knew her unit was not the best one involved in this operation and that she was in command purely because of her command’s status as part of the Royal Brigade of Davion Guards.â€
“Marshal Steiner your Uhlans will lead the attack against the Fourth Capellan Defence Force with the Wild Geese in support.†She said looking at Richard Steiner and then to the oldest man in the room Wild Geese commander Colonel Dave Stutenroth who would be taking part in his final mission as commander of the Wild Geese.
“I will command the attack to the south of the city against the Seventh Capellan Armoured Cavalry with Marshal Rennard’s Armoured Cavalry.†She said pausing for a moment stepping around the table “we do not know the exact deployment of the mercenary forces on No Return but between our four commands we should be able to contain and destroy them. Other AFFS and mercenary commands will be striking at Sarmaxa, Randar and Relevow as we hit No Return. We are but one piece of this puzzle let our part not be out of place.â€
- - -
Three days later the AFFS units jumped into a pirate point in the No Return system and the DropShips carrying the ground forces immediately began their burn towards the planet’s surface. While their aerospace forces engaged the Capellans in near orbit Field Marshal Black ordered her Land Air Mech Battalion to go on ahead of the Sixth Davion Guards DropShips clearing the way for the rest of her command she suspected that Marshal Steiner would do the same with his own LAM Battalion. While these craft were not the best combat units they did have their uses.
The entire Battalion of LAMs landed several kilometres from the AFFS planned Landing Zone covering the rest of the distance in AirMech mode allowing them to skim the surface of the planet and avoid early warning sensors. This decision seemed to be the correct one as the LAMs arrived at the planned landing zones just as elements of the Seventh Armoured Cavalry were setting up ambush points the landing zone was an obvious one with a wide open space that aerodyne DropShips could comfortably land and aerospace fighters could land and refuel. Now in BattleMech configuration the LAM Battalion under the command of Major Joe Hulkenburg moved in on the unprepared Capellan defenders turning the landing zones into a combat zone.
Cutting to the right Joe Hulkenburg ducked his Phoenix Hawk LAM out of the way of an particle cannon volley from a Capellan Yao Lien returning fire with his paired extended-range medium lasers on the right arm and the centrally lined headhunter missile system. The lasers burned over the enemy BattleMech’s torso while the Headhunter slammed into the right arm exploding inside the armour causing further damage. Joe smiled stepping down on the jump jets launching his Mech over the enemy twisting in mid-air he heard the Headhunter achieve a lock and fired the missile even as the Phoenix Hawk fell landing he saw the missile explode against the enemy Mech’s rear armour causing more internal damage. This variant of the Phoenix Hawk was the first that Joe had piloted with the Headhunter and he loved the weapon, it was completely useless against units with anti-missile systems but units like this Yao Lien were at the weapon’s mercy. As the fifty-five ton enemy BattleMech twisted attempting to track Joe’s Mech he triggered his Mech’s medium lasers again burning into the Yao Lien’s leg armour causing more damage. The Yao Lien opened fire on the Phoenix Hawk with its particle cannons causing heavy armour damage to the LAM’s torso Joe ignored the damage launching his Mech into the air again triggering his lasers again this time penetrating the armour causing more internal damage to the enemy BattleMech.
More particle cannon fire struck the Phoenix Hawk but Joe was in motion striking out at the enemy BattleMech again suddenly fire tagged the Yao Lien from behind and above as another LAM struck the Capellan BattleMech ending its jump nearly right behind it. The Capellan MechWarrior obviously knew he was outmatched and attempted to jump clear of the battle but Joe’s Headhunter had once again achieved a lock-on the missile flew from the Phoenix Hawk to the Yao Lien in moments impacting with the Yao Lien as it took off slamming into the Medium BattleMech’s left thigh the internal explosion caused by the missile caused major damage to the top of the Yao Lien’s leg blowing the limb completely off the BattleMech sending its jump completely off course. The Yao Lien flew out of control through the air slamming into the ground more than two hundred metres away from Joe’s position the medium BattleMech slamming into the ground its right arm digging into the ground causing it to tumble across the ground disabled its pilot unconscious or dead.
In the air above the LAMs DropShips were coming in for their landing as aerospace fighters continued engaging their Capellan counterparts. “Alright people sound out your sectors how are we doing?†Hulkenburg called out stepping his BattleMech forwards looking around the Capellan forces that had been in the area were in retreat. Each of his company commanders called in reporting the same as what Joe was seeing the Landing Zone was secure. He had lost eight Land Air Mechs with three of their pilots killed in the action but the Sixth Davion Guards Land Air Mech Detachment had done well in its first live fire battle and their commander was very proud of their accomplishments.
Victory at the landing zone quickly leads to victory on the planet with AFFS and mercenary units charging across the planet’s surface pursuing the defenders wherever they headed. With the Battleship Bravery holding station over the planet there is no escape for any of the units on the planet. Field Marshal Neela Black allows the Fighting Tigers and the half dozen survivors from the Heart of Courage to leave the planet and seek employment elsewhere while impounding the Capellan survivors in a compound on No Return. Elsewhere the AFFS and mercenary units successfully drive back the defenders in the Sarmaxa, Randar and Relevow systems securing them for the Federated Suns. The heaviest losses occur in the Sarmaxa system but not through direct contact with the Capellan Confederation forces one of the Monolith-class JumpShips servicing the First Kestrel Grenadiers RCT hits a nuclear armed space mine in the system completely obliterating the JumpShip and its connected DropShips. The presence of nuclear armed space mines is a new and worrying step showing the lengths that the Capellan Confederation is willing to go to secure their remaining systems.
BattleMech Bay, Delta Galaxy Command
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
13th October 3107
Marching across the BattleMech bay saKhan Katrine Devalis approached Khan Canin Rosse who stood at the foot of a brand-new Dragon Cat II OmniMech an upgraded version of the original design fielded by the Clan. Personally Katrine preferred the Nova Cat as a heavy BattleMech but she knew the Khan preferred the faster sleeker Dragon Cat design and that he had championed the most recent upgrade gaining support from across the Clan. “Khan†she said stepping up beside him like her he wore a simple green utility uniform.
“Welcome home saKhan†the Khan said greeting her despite not looking away from the seventy ton humanoid OmniMech.
“Thank you†she said looking over the OmniMech “it looks good†she said deciding to be diplomatic.
“Power issues not getting to the right side of the chassis†he explained “they need to iron out the kinks before it will be ready for full deployment.†He said turning from the OmniMech “walk with me saKhan†he said heading deeper into the facility. “I was surprised that you returned to the Den.â€
“I wished to discuss my people’s position my Khan†she said was they walked she noted many of the techs surprised by her presence even before she had taken some of the Clan to attack the Draconis Combine she rarely came to the Delta Galaxy Mechbay.
“Aff, you have done well and fulfilled your vision†he said congratulating her but he saw her confusion. “Your vision blooded our people and successfully crippled the Snow Raven Clan, something they will not fully recover from for a decade or more, you have done well. But now it is time to come home Quiaff?â€
“Neg, my Khan, I do not believe I have fully fulfilled my vision.†She said surprising the older man she was glad she could still surprise him. “My vision had a Nova Cat knocked down before rising once more we have not been knocked down we have continued to rise.â€
“You want to be knocked down Quineg?â€
“Neg†she answered walking with him in silence for a moment “but there was more my Khan†she finally admitting that she had left something out “once the cat was knocked down another creature emerged one part cat, part bird emerged replacing it.â€
“The creatures you liberated from the Combine on Algate, fulfillment of your vision.†Canin said irritated she had withheld information from him but still not seeing more to the vision.
“Neg, my Khan there is something more to it.†She disagreed and he needed to understand why “also my Occupation Zone gives us an opportunity to blood our warriors if you would give me experienced troops we could really push against the Combine.â€
“To what end we cannot hold territory there for long. The Combine has vast resources to repel us the Ravens and Bears are both deeply entrenched. For us to invade further welcomes all three of them to turn on us.†He said finally “and we need troops here to defend the Den.â€
“From what the Den has not been attacked since the Goliath Scorpion remnants and the Taurians attacked us.†She said “and the Federated Suns are more interested in attacking their Inner Sphere neighbours because they believe us toothless and not worth the attention.†She said showing her distaste for the Nova Cat’s current position.
“They do not attack us because they know their forces would not survive the encounter.†He said after a moment “the Federated Suns knows that to attack us on the border would invite the Combine and Confederation to act out of their place. We do not cause them problems and they have not caused us problems it is simple.†He said continuing forward “so you can blood all the troops you wish but a full offensive will not be happening.â€
“Which brings me to my next point, you keep sending me the old or the very young I need our best troops to make an impact.â€
“They are needed to defend the Den†he replied seeing where she was angling he would not release their best troops to her banner he knew that the core of the Nova Cat Touman was now still Warden based they had no wish to engage in open combat with the Inner Sphere instead they were content to continue the series of Clan based honour trials against the other Clans.
“Then I need the Legacy†she said taking a different approach “my WarShips need maintenance in the field I cannot afford to return them to the Den right after they engage in battle.â€
“Legacy is needed at the Terminal Four construction point.†He said naming the next planned space station that would link the Nova Cat’s core territory with their expanded systems.
“Give me an inch!†She snapped turning to face him as a Shadow Cat OmniMech walked past them heading out of the bay. “I need the resources to fulfill my vision. I know you think that it is done but there is more out there I need to find.â€
“Even if you do not like what you find?†The older man questioned
“Yes damn it†she admitted
“Then I will release the Bearclaw to your use.†He said naming their newest Legacy-class Yardship.
“Bearclaw? That is a Dominion ship.†She stated surprised by its acquisition.
“Not anymore†he said smirking “the Severn Leroux made an impact against the Bears†he said naming their flagship.
“I did see the ship was missing†she had believed the vessel was simply on patrol through the nearby systems but the Khan’s aggressive move surprised and impressed her a little. “Why deploy her to take the Bearclaw?â€
“I believed you may need a Yardship. Sovereign is busy†he said “the Bears had a surplus and were willing to entertain our Trial of Possession.†He explained “the Severn Leroux is due for a refit so this will be her last combat for some time it is good she will leave service on a high.â€
“You are going ahead with the refits?â€
“Aff, our Anna Rosse-class vessels have been left behind by newer classes that have been debuted by the Inner Sphere and Clans they are all in need of refit to the Tetrach’s standard.â€
“Anna Rosse II?†She asked about how they would define the class unlike the other Clans a “II†designation was not something Clan Nova Cat had tended to do as expected the Khan shook his head.
“Neg, while the origin of the design is in the Anna Rosse the Tetrarch is a new class of her own.†He answered it hurt to retire the Anna Rosse name but the new evolution of the design was too much for it to be described as a variant like previous refits. “We do not agree on much but look at what we have accomplished Katrine†he said raising his arms up to his sides “we have forty-nine systems in the Den, another nine that could be added when we are ready for them. And your occupation zone already has twenty-one further worlds.â€
“I could have more if you released the troops I requested†she said testing the waters once more but her Khan ignored her and continued.
“Our WarShips are classed as among the best in the Clans while our ground forces have the highest percentage of OmniMechs in all Clusters of all of the Clans which includes the mighty Bears every single one of our Galaxies can fight the best our enemies can throw at them.†He said proudly Katrine Devalis was not convinced that was entirely correct but remained silent allowing the Khan his moment of accomplishment she needed his support to keep her own dream alive. “I think of where would could have been had we taken a different path and I am very proud of what we have accomplished.â€
“We can do more†she said not completely agreeing with him or disagreeing
“Aff, we can together†he agreed “I will release additional resources to support you saKhan.†He finally said seeing her face brighten “two of Omega Galaxies newest clusters†he decided Katrine hid her disappointment quickly deciding that two additional clusters were better than nothing and if they were younger warriors then she could mould them without their Khan’s influence something she could live with.
Battle-line (Lyran Defence of Borghese)
Borghese, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
20th October 3107
“Screw this!†Morgan Christifori exclaimed as his Penetrator was struck by a series of long range autocannon strikes. The damage was negligible but annoying he knew the Horse warrior was trying to tempt him into charging which he wasn’t ready to do. Morgan’s company had been tasked with supporting the Lyran Commonwealth’s defence of Borghese as the Ninety-fourth BattleMech Brigade, which he had been attached to after Devil’s Rock, were deployed to assist the Lyran Commonwealth. Initially they had been here for training and orientation but since the Clan attacks on Fort Loudon and Rasalgethi they had been upgraded to a combat assignment the SLS Jericho had been sent to support them but she was currently in the Cumbres system helping the defenders turn away another Hell’s Horse attack. “Seventh command where the hell are your guards we’re getting pinked to death out here!†He snapped into the communication link.
“They’ve been held up by the Horses at Elizabeth’s Ridge the Horses have deployed extensive mines and are using Battle Armour ambush in ambushes. We’ve never seen them do this before.â€
“Well listen up if you don’t get me some support you’re going to have sixteen dead MechWarriors out here. Get your ass in gear!†He demanded he was laying it as thick as possible but he needed support and it was the only way he could do it. “Alex move!†He suddenly screamed seeing the incoming ordinance flying through the air his warning came too late as Alex’s Huron Warrior was engulfed in dozens of long range missile impacts. Morgan looked away from the BattleMech as it turned awkwardly to the right and then collapsed to the ground. “Command that’s one less warrior for your to worry about saving.†He said dryly “com’on people hold it together we’ve got support on the way.â€
“We’re going to be dead by the time they arrive†Adam commented his Barghest was battered but there wasn’t much Morgan could do the whole company was coming close to what battlefield analysts termed Combat Loss Grouping where units fell close together as they each accumulated terminal damage at the same time.
“Negative it’s not going down like that†Ralph said marching his Mauler forward launching two flights of long range missiles at the enemy. “Boss, let’s take it to them we fight better on the offensive.â€
“They will rip us apart at range.†Morgan said triggering his lasers again causing damage to a Horse Balius QuadMech.
“They can’t take the hits, they are in as bad shape as us!†Ralph said triggering his missiles again combining fire on Morgan’s target knocking the Balius to the ground Adam added a gauss slug to the downed OmniMech ensuring it stayed down.
“I’m with Ralph bossâ€
“We all are†Lieutenant Ross Lawson commented off to Morgan’s right “we’re going to be ripped up either way Captain I’d rather take the fight to these Clan bastards than die through their pin prick attacks.â€
“They want us to charge, they are trying to get us to leave cover†Morgan said he’d been watching the Horse attacks they were holding back hitting the SLDF company with their longest range weapons trying to force the Inner Sphere unit to close.
“But if we stay here we’re dead†his other Lieutenant, Alyson Jones, said her Bushwacker lacking its left arm and most of the armour on its torso. Morgan fired his two large lasers again knocking down a Kestrel Light OmniMech closing his eyes for a moment Morgan thought about the best course of action.
“Neg, we’re not doing it, if we are going to fight we are going to fight we are going to fight on our own terms†Morgan decided “break by lance head east for four kilometres set up another defence and then we head north and link up with the other units.â€
“But the factory…†Lawson pointed out
“It’s abandoned bricks and mortar I honestly don’t give a crap about it.†Morgan decided hoping the Horses would finish their advance there. “Alyson get out of here now!†He said firing his lasers watching as the four BattleMechs that made up her company turned away from the line. He saw on sensors Ralph’s Mauler take another particle cannon his. “Ralph I want your lance out with Ross’ lanceâ€
“Boss, no we stick together†Ralph protested triggering another salvo of long range missiles.
“You can’t keep up!†Morgan snapped Ralph’s Mech had taken too much damage and Morgan knew that even now it would struggle to get out of here alive. “Ross, detach Pharrell and Gwen they are moving out with me and Adam, Morgan is coming with you.†He said letting his subordinate know about the changes “go now.†He commanded breaking another lance away from the company leaving him with his own Penetrator, Adam’s Barghest, Pharrell’s Arcas and Gwen’s Cestus. Morgan quickly linked the four of them into a private comm. net “and then there was four.â€
“I’m really honoured Captain†Pharrell said triggering his lasers at an enemy target “mind telling me why we got the short straw?â€
“Because our Mechs can work together†Morgan said adding his lasers to Pharrell’s target blowing the enemy BattleMech’s left leg completely off. “We are going to go on ten second counts†he said struggling over the heat that had been building up. “Adam, Gwen I need you guys to put up a show hurt them for a ten second count and give me and Pharrell a chance to fall back. We will pull back and then turn to cover you on your count.â€
“Boss ammo is going to become a problem†Adam noted as he fired another gauss slug at the enemy.
“I know but we’re not going to keep this up long.†He said “once we get to the rendezvous we’re all running for it.â€
“Not very dignified for a Christifori†Pharrell pointed out noting Morgan’s name and how it would look.
“I’ll tell you a secret Pharrell first rule my father told me. 'When you get your ass is in a BattleMech cockpit I do everything to stay alive regardless if it looks good or bad' it doesn't look god but who gives a ****.†He said as a salvo of missiles go through his now empty anti-missile system and slammed into the BattleMech’s torso. “Live to fight another day we’ll be back.†He promised them today he was saving his men tomorrow he’d make the Horses pay “first count go!†He said both he and Pharrell fell back several hundred metres before turning firing their weapons allowing Adam and Gwen to pass them. Ten seconds later they did the same again covering several hundred metres pulling back. As Morgan had hoped the Horses settled for taking over control of the ammunition and parts factory instead of pursuing his forces any further.
The loss of the factory was not the only loss of the day more than half of the Seventh Commonwealth Guards had been lost in the battle including the unit’s commander killed when his company strayed through an un-cleared minefield. Following the battle the Lyran and SLDF units were called on to withdraw from the worlds and link up with the First Commonwealth Guards and the rest of the Ninety-fourth on Grunweld and prepare a counter-attack. Fortunately the Lyrans and SLDF had remained in control of Summit and Cumbres after the attacks there.
Raid’s In Force
District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
28th October 3107
The Magistracy of Canopus takes advantage of the District of Regulus being distracted in fighting against the Capellan Confederation forcing Free Worlds League forces off Obrenovac, Rushcegg and Saonara forcing them back into the District of Regulus. The Magistracy of Canopus push further against their neighbour chasing the retreating FWL units into the Ayn Tarma, Skvorec and Wisconsin systems with the two nations engaging in heavy combat on each world in the space around them. In the Wisconsin system a rare appearance by Magistracy Naval units forces Regulan forces to surrender air superiority but the Magistracy ground forces are unable to gain full control over the system.
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Not the biggest of updates or one of the most exciting but perhaps one of the more revealing in recent times. As always I welcome your comments and speculation.
The first part was initially the brainchild of James Tanaga it then went through the washing machine came out and went back in again before I was completely happy with it. The second part caused me some of the most trouble in this timeline to date - how to make it work? I went from one extreme to the other with that part while the last part shows what a "united" Free Worlds League is... its potential and its peril.
Enjoy
Clan Grand Council, Clan Hall
Andery, Tukayyid
Clan Territory Inner Sphere
5th November 3107
Khan Natasha Faraday stood to the side as she watched the holo-video of a Scientist doctor and nurse, both belonging to the Rasalhague Dominion treat the female Technician belonging to her Clan. Christy, a Freeborn of MechWarrior stock, lay on the hospital bed answering the Scientist’s questions. What happened to her would be avenged, she vowed silently to herself.
Assigned to the Disease Research Facility as part of Clan Fire Mandrill’s very small detachment, she had gone missing five weeks ago. Tortured, raped, starved, and the word ‘surat’ had been carved into her forehead with a rusty knife before finally the said knife had been plunged into her stomach. Oh yes, there would be a reckoning, she again promised herself.
The Technician was found being dumped off in the training grounds of Dinju Heights by a Rasalhague Dominion Trinary of Elementals in Rogue Bear battle armour during a training exercise against the Second Ebon Guard Cluster. The Ebon Guard and Dominion troops had interceded and captured the four dezgra who had left her there to die. Three Scientists and a Labourer, all belonging to Clan Coyote, they were the ones responsible for this atrocity.
Yet what the young woman had somehow had the strength to say before passing out chilled her to her core. Those four dezgra were Society cell members, or so the young Technician had informed her rescuers as she lay nearly dying of her wounds. That and they were wanting to know how to get through the Disease Research Facility’s security grid kept Natasha from leading her three clusters of Fire Mandrills she currently had in the system storming into Clan Coyote’s territory. But only just her people were tired from the battles on Schyler and there had to be a way for the Clans to resolve this.
The live holo-video was switched off. Turning her head, she saw the other Khans, both physically and in holo-image glaring at the two Coyote Khans. Both had the grace to look ashamed.
“Kindly explain what happened to this young Fire Mandrill by members of your Clan,†the Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward bit out as he waved to the now dead screen. “Else your Clan will be in for a reckoning and I doubt Clan Wolf will come to your assistance this time. In fact my former Clan will likely go for the jugular.â€
“Agreed,†answered the Khan Amina Kerensky of the Wolves growled her anger clear to be heard.
The Coyote Khan, Carl Heller swallowed before answering. “I do not know what has happened,†he answered the Loremaster before turning to Natasha. “I truthfully do not know, Khan Faraday. But I will help to ensure whatever has happened will be answered harshly among our Warrior Caste.â€
Natasha snorted, but the Khan Ragnar Magnesson of the Rasalhague Dominion answered for her. “What happened is that a Fire Mandrill Technician,†he waved his hand in the direction of the monitor on the wall, “was kidnapped and tortured for information on how to bypass the security around the Disease Research Facility. And instead of just being killed and let that be the end of it, they raped her, carved ‘surat’ into her forehead, and finally dumped her in the training area around Dinju Heights. All done by members of your own Clan.†The aging Freeborn Khan all but snarled at the Coyote Khan the recent trials between the Rasalhague Dominion and the Coyotes had been fought with honour he began to question that philosophy.
The Coyote Warrior paled significantly. “The Disease Research Facility-,†he began to ask.
“Additional security precautions have been taken,†Thomas Ward assured the Coyote Warrior. “But now I must ask a very pointed question. Your answer will either assure your Clan’s destruction or its very own survival,†the former Wolf warned the Coyote Khan.
“Ask,†was his simple reply.
“The Watch has found evidence of Society cells in the Inner Sphere and Periphery. Even the Mountain Wolves finally found one of their own with Society links,†he said speaking of the Exiled Clan in the Lyran Commonwealth the holographic images of their Khans included in this meeting because of the threat the Society possessed to them all they had thought the threat was contained in the Homeworlds, they were wrong. “Yet only the Nova Cats and Clan Coyote remains without known agents,†the Loremaster replied in kind before waving to Natasha, who proceeded.
“I find that very unlikely. Reports suggest in the Homeworlds that elements of the Society formed within Clan Coyote,†she paused, smirking at the now deathly pale face Carl Heller in front of her. Her clan had fought its way clear of the Homeworlds she had thought those days were behind them.
“Dezgra†the Coyote Warrior replied remarking about the Coyote traitors and most likely the Mountain Wolves neither of the Mountain Wolf leaders spoke up.
“Aff, they are dezgra to the majority of the Clans but still originated within the Clans†Thomas Ward rebuked him trying to get off the topic of the Mountain Wolves he knew the Hell’s Horses, Wolves and Jade Falcons were just as angry the Exiled Wolves were here. “Khan Faraday called for them to be included in this emergency meeting to ensure everyone was aware of the threat the Society possess to us even here in the Inner Sphere. We are here to discuss the guilt of Clan Coyote in these proceedings and the appropriate response.â€
“Aff,†Carl Heller answered.
“What is the exact nature of the Society cells within Clan Coyote? Khan,†Ragnar Magnusson asked, staring into the Coyote Warrior.
The Coyote Warrior visibly sighed before answering. “The Watch have identified several additional cells.†He admitted having been further shocked by the findings his operatives had made.
“Are operations ongoing against them, quiaff?†queried Thomas Ward from his table.
“Aff,†the Coyote answered back. “There is a strong movement in the Warrior Caste to annihilate the vermin. Unfortunately we have found that many of their cells are based in populated areas our operations have been limited.â€
“So you turn a blind eye to the Society when it suits you!†Ragnar Magnusson roared.
“When it is either that or our Clan’s destruction, yes!†roared back the senior Coyote Khan. “We have no other choice! My Clan is just trying to survive,†he added desperately.
“Massive collateral damage is not what any of us want to see.†Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats said speaking up he too communicated with the council via Hyper Pulse Generator and was represented by a hologram standing where the Nova Cat table should be. Heller was glad to see at least one of the Khans spoke sense but he noticed that several others looked angry at the Nova Cat Khan’s words “these vermin as you call them must be destroyed but it must be done correctly.â€
“Correctly†Jana Pryde agreed “it is the Coyotes fault for allowing them to breed if collateral damage is required then so be it.†Khan Jana Pryde said angrily turning on the Nova Cat Khan “and you Clan Khan Rosse should we be turning our eyes on them for the Society?â€
“Turn your eyes towards us all you like Khan Pryde†Rosse said his hologram stepping towards Pryde “but beware if you look too long those eyes may be clawed out.†He warned the young Khan of the Falcons loosed surprised by the instant turn in the Nova Cat’s attitude gone was the old warrior and in his place was a vibrant ready warrior.
“Having Clan Coyote turn on these cells with reckless abandon would see the Clan destroyed. Is this how we will deal with these threats now?†Rosse said breaking away from the Jade Falcon leader looking at the other Khans “the last Clan to turn on its civilian population was destroyed by the Inner Sphere.†He warned “the Homeworlds Clans have been destroyed in the fighting there. The Sphinx Raptors were destroyed for being associated with the Society…†He said looking around the other Clan members.
“Aff,†Natasha answered back with an almost feral look at the Coyote table Heller refused to look at her ashamed of what his Clan had done. “I remember, for it was my own Clan that did the deed.â€
“My point is originally the Clans numbered twenty.†Khan Canin Rosse said looking around the remaining Clans “our current number is nine less than half the Founder created remain.†He said intent on shaming the remaining Khans he knew that they were all responsible for their own Clans but showing them how far their culture had diminished would hopefully make them see reason.
“And if there was an ilKhan there would be only one.†Jana Pryde shot back finding her voice.
“And how successful have you been with that?†Rosse challenged turning back on Pryde putting the younger woman in her place “Kerensky’s Wolves are the closest to Terra and even then they have been incapable of closing closer than fifty light years on Terra.†He said he saw Amina Kerensky’s angry expression but she said nothing knowing it was true the Wolves could not push towards Terra without opening their flanks to attack they needed the other Clans to keep the dream of being an ilClan alive. “We need Clan Coyote to stand with us, we need our culture to survive,†he said passionately his words resonating with the other Khans “and we need to eliminate the Society completely here and at home.†He said “Khan Heller, I bid the Nova Cat Watch to assist you in removing the Society the correct way.†He said biding the three Clusters that made up the Nova Cat Watch.
“It will still cause heavy damage…†Heller began before Rosse cut him off.
“That is the price your Clan will pay†Canin Rosse said angrily the Nova Cats would also be taking payment for what the Coyotes had done but that would be dealt with in time.
“If a Clan cannot stand alone then it should not stand at all†Ragnar Magnesson said recalling the decision the Grand Council made when the Smoke Jaguars faced destruction. “I was not there but I believe it is our Culture’s way the strong stand the weak fall.â€
“And it would benefit your Clan†Teresia Cooper of the Hell’s Horses replied glancing at the Ghost Bear Khan “your Dominion would like to bid for the absorption of the Coyotes Quiaff?â€
“A trial that you would like to oppose, quiaff?†Magnesson asked
“Enough†Thomas Ward said getting the attention of both Khans “the absorption of a Clan is something that can only be completed with the full support of this council.â€
“Which I believe neither Clan Sea Fox nor Clan Nova Cat would agree to†Khan Evangeline Clarke said exchanging a glance with Khan Canin Rosse who nodded his thanks for the support.
“Clan Mountain Wolf would like to bid a Cluster of our best warriors to join your mission Khan Rosse†Khan Evan Kell said speaking up for the first time taking attention off the proceedings. “Many of you do not class us as a Clan but we wish to defend the culture that birthed our Clan and honour those that came before us. Phelan Kell, my predecessor as leader of the Mountain Wolves…â€
“Dezgra†Amina Kerensky of the Wolves muttered looking at Evan Kell under her breath Canin Rosse was about to speak but Kell spoke up first.
“…required of me to be a student of history as I understand it unlike the Smoke Jaguars the Coyotes have not requested assistance with this issue but it has been offered to them as such this Council has already violated the rule of a Clan standing alone or passing.†He explained gaining an angry glance this time from Khan Jana Pryde. “Khan Rosse my offer of assistance stands my Wolves will assist in ending this Society threat.â€
As the hours of debate continued all of the Clans, spurred on by the offers from Clans Nova Cat and Mountain Wolf agreed to add forces to Canin Rosse’s forces giving him a Cluster from each of the Clans. Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward looked at the leader of the Nova Cat Clan. “Khan Rosse, the task of destroying the Society rests with you are you ready to command these brave warriors?â€
“Aff, I agree†Canin Rosse said looking at the Coyote leadership “I will pursue and destroy the Society influences in our culture. Clan Coyote will take damage this is unavoidable but I will ensure that no Clan warrior creates more collateral damage than is required.â€
“I agree to these terms†Khan Heller said almost redundantly accepting that his Clan would pay a price for bringing the Society to the Inner Sphere he slowly turned to face the Fire Mandrill Khan, she continued. “As surkei for your Technician, I offer Clan Fire Mandrill control over the system of Diosd, the population and resources that reside in that system.â€
“You believe my Clan can be bought!†Natasha exclaimed in anger trying not to show how pleased she was to gain control over the system.
“We do,†the Coyote saKhan Sepp Heller replied his almost mechanical voice cutting through the air. Heller had been injured when he was young and his voice box had been replaced by a synthetic model it had not affected his abilities as a warrior however. “After all, were you not bought out by that periphery nation you now are so protective about? The one you have illegally allowed to give technology to despite past Grand Council agreements.â€
Natasha shook in fury as she noticed many of the Khans now turned their glares to her she knew that none of them liked how the Mandrills had survived but she also knew the Sea Foxes and Nova Cats had done the same in the past. She chose her next words with care, less her Clan be targeted. Well played, Natasha mused to herself grudgingly. “I accept your surkei on behalf of my Clan, saKhan.†She answered back before moving to her Clan’s own table, where her own saKhan sat, shaking his head at her.
“Loremaster Ward, my Nova Cats will be in position to assist Clan Coyote by May at the latest. I suggest that Clan Coyote continue to target the cells they are able to without collateral damage for now herding the remaining members of the Society into a smaller number of targets. We will finish them off.â€
“Khan Heller, you will with immediate effect end assaults on the Inner Sphere†he said glancing at the Hell’s Horses Khan “your joint offensive is over by decree of this Council.†He said looking back at Heller “instead you will continue operations against the Society, the Ebon Guard will be deployed to several of your systems all trade will be funneled through these systems and vetted by the Ebon Guard to ensure no destructive elements escape your territory.â€
“That will cripple us economically!†Carl Heller stated angrily barely containing his anger the offensive against the Lyrans had given his warriors an outlet for their frustrations now other Clans would operate in their territory and his Clan was restricted to combat against their own people. He looked at Khan Teresia Cooper of the Horses and saw her anger he knew that the only way to keep her Clan from attempting to absorb his own was to attempt to continue at least some of their operations against the Lyran Commonwealth despite the orders of the Council.
“It is that or you face my Mandrills in Trials of Combat!†Natasha Faraday called out angrily finding her voice once more bringing Carl Heller from his thoughts he looked at the Fire Mandrill Khan and then to the hologram of Nova Cat Khan still stood in front of him. He glanced at saKhan Sepp Heller before back at the Loremaster of the Clans “Loremaster, we will cooperate.†He said finally.
“Khan Rosse, good hunting to you.†Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward finally said Khan Rosse nodded his agreement.
Sixteenth Whitting Conference
Unity City, Terra
Star League Protectorate
11th November 3107
First Prince Burton Davion surveyed the other leaders of the Star League and was not impressed with the turn out. Due to the recent fighting between Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces and the armed forces of Clans Coyote and Hell’s Horses, who had now pushed onto Kelenfold and Blue Diamond, Archon Jessica Steiner had refused to attend instead sending Duchess Ilse Kelswa-Aten of Skye in her place. With heavy fighting still occurring in the District of Oriente Free Worlds League leader Captain-General Joseph Marik had also refused to leave the Free Worlds League instead attending an emergency session of the Parliament sending Duke Robert Brett-Marik in his stead. With the Federated Suns still generally at peace both Burton Davion and his with Sterling and his parents had attended the conference on Terra enjoying the break from the normality. Burton felt bad for the other houses who faced conflict internally and externally but he could not forgive them for not attending this conference the Star League gave them support on many levels failing to attend was not the way to gain support from the council. This had worked in the Federated Suns favour neither the Lyran Commonwealth or Free Worlds League were eligible candidates and through promised aid both nations had been convinced to vote in favour of the Federated Suns with the Draconis Combine voting for the Star League Protectorate. With the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate nominated the Taurian Concordat and Magistracy of Canopus had abstained from voting with the Federated Suns and Star League casting votes for themselves the Federated Suns had once more been confirmed as holding the position of First Lord. Burton stood and looked around the council for a moment before speaking “I am honoured that you would choose the Federated Suns to lead this Star League but I believe I am the wrong man to become First Lord. Should the Federated Suns be attacked I would do as Archon Steiner and Captain-General Marik have done and defend my home.†He said “however there must be a First Lord which is why I nominate the one man who I believe can look beyond his loyalty to his home nation and look to the good of the whole Star League.†He said turning slightly looking at his father who had sat behind him at the Federated Suns table “four term First Lord, Victor Steiner-Davion.†He said looking at Victor as he raised from his chair and walked out of the room without saying a word to his son.
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Several hours later Victor stood looking angrily at his son behind them both Victor’s wife Danai Centrella-Davion and Burton’s wife Duchess Sterling Davion watching their husbands. “I RETIRED!†Victor shouted angrily looking at his son.
“The Star League needs you!†Burton snapped back “you know fine that without strong leadership the Star League will fall again and with that the Clans will invade once more!â€
“That isn’t my problem you are First Prince they voted for you†Victor said turning towards Danai “this is supposed to be our time.†He said to his wife
“It is your choice†Danai said taking a step towards him “and I will stand with you†she said smiling as Victor turned back towards his son.
“Our argument is mute the other leaders will not agree to this…†he began
“They already have†Burton said silencing him “even Bannister Cameron agrees with this course of action and is willing to have you both as guests on Terra.†He said “I have informed the Governor that a combined arms Regiment of the Davion Guards and some of my best DMI bodyguards will be with you.â€
“You have everything figured out?†Victor wondered just how long his son had been thinking up this little plan.
“Well I did up until the point where you said no†his son admitted “the Star League needs you†he said glancing at his mother “it could use you both. The Protectorate has looked inward since Bannister took control they see a Cameron sitting in charge and think that the old Hegemony’s glory days are returning. You are known across the Inner Sphere and will be accepted by these worlds as someone who understands the need for unity instead of the infighting that caused the Succession Wars…†Burton said he believed that his father was the only man who could stop the Star League Protectorate becoming a new Hegemony which looked at itself first and the rest of the Star League a distant second. He knew that Bannister Cameron would not like the presence of a First Lord on Terra but not under his control but he also knew the former General would accept it and that he was honourable enough that he would not try anything against his parents.
“You have me†Victor said looking at his wife “you have us.†He said embracing his son he whispered in the man’s ear “you are a better man than think you are not many would give up what you have or go to the lengths to help others.â€
“You have†Burton replied reminding his father of his glory days during the Clan War.
Three days later Victor Steiner-Davion is officially confirmed as the next First Lord of the Star League Defence Force. The appointment is welcomed in most parts of the Inner Sphere who see Victor as someone who has looked out for the whole Inner Sphere and has warred to protect it and not to dominate like his predecessors. This news filters through the Inner Sphere as Archon Jessica Steiner successfully leads the defence of Kelenfold destroying two Clan Hell’s Horses WarShips and two clusters of ground forces in the system. Unfortunately this success is not repeated in the Blue Diamond or Fatima systems where the First and Eleventh Arcturan Guards RCTs are driven out of the system by Clan Coyote with the survivors from the Eleventh folded into the First to keep at least one of the commands active.
Parliament
Atreus City, Atreus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
22nd November 3107
Duke Jonas Halas stood in front of the united Free Worlds League Parliament looking around the representatives of their nation. “People of the Free Worlds League my District of Oriente come to you at a time of great need today the Capellan Confederation are at Oriente’s gate ready to burn it down and land troops on my home world. And yet while my people fight for their very lives trying to defend their homes the District of Oriente move on our systems.†He said angrily looking over at the Regulan leader.
“Our nation is simply moving to support Oriente against the Confederation.†Prince Lester Cameron-Jones said calmly looking around the Parliament “Regulus has the power to control the aggression from the Confederation†he said “we will turn them back.â€
“We do not need your help†Halas said looking back at Cameron-Jones “I agree we do need weapons but we do not need you to take our territory. We need support not conquest.â€
“A national peacekeeping force could solve these problems†Captain-General Joseph Marik “controlled by this parliament a force equipped with the best weapons that the Free Worlds League can produce could support all nations without taking territory.â€
“A federal force has been done before and does not work. Each district state of the Free Worlds League must stand or fall a weak link will destroy this nation we have rebuilt.†Prime Minister Ledford said he was proud of his District of Bowang and how it stood by itself without assistance from the other nation states. “We may not be as strong as others but we can take care of ourselves. We do not need Parliament directing troops inside our borders.â€
“I agree to bring forces that are not controlled by the leader of the district would cause more trouble.†Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones of Lesnovo said “this parliament was designed to support this whole nation not create a new army.â€
“And so this Parliament turns its back on troops from one district fighting against another?†Jonas Halas said angrily “it allows Regulus to gain a numerical advantage over all other states and it will allow Oriente to die?†Halas said looking around at the other system leaders “if this is Parliaments decision then perhaps this nation state should be broken once more!â€
“No-one is saying that†Captain-General Joseph Marik said “what they are saying is that we must all be strong. You say you need equipment and troops Duke Halas? The District of Marik will answer this call.†He promised “I will not see Oriente fall to the Capellans or to anyone else†he said looking around the room “and I will not allow this Parliament to break. The national peacekeeping force is for now put aside but I will ask you all to continue to consider it as these months progresses when your worlds are threatened by outsiders think about what this type of force controlled by this Parliament could do.†He said finally he would continue to push for Parliament to have its own military forces he would continue to try to hold this nation together and he would try to support Oriente despite Regulus best efforts to see the state gone.
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Now that the forums are working again, and with absence of anything new to read, time to end 3107
My thanks to James Tanaga for the Rim Collection part and marauder648 for the Sea Fox part... and please all welcome Clan Spaniel to the AU ;D
MIIO/DMI Debriefing
Castle Sandoval, Robinson
Crucis March, Federated Suns
2nd December 3107
After weeks of checking and double checking of financial and communication records House Davion’s MIIO and DMI organisations confirm that Mordecai Sandoval was responsible for the murder of Tancred Sandoval. Duke Jerome Sandoval is once again confirmed as the leader of the Draconis March until Tancred’s son Duncan Sandoval decides if he wishes to lead.
Under the instruction of Jerome Sandoval the DMI put in place a plan to arrest Mordecai Sandoval on the planet of Lima. Unfortunately the DMI arrive on the planet late as Mordecai Sandoval, his Robinson Defenders and the Fourth Robinson Rangers LCT had already left on an illegal strike against the worlds of Royal attacking the Sixth Ghost Regiment on the planet. With overwhelming firepower Mordecai ensures that the entire Sixth Ghost Regiment is destroyed in the fighting.
RCS Cassandra
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
11th December, 3107
On board the small station’s gravity deck which overlooked All Dawn and the repair site Matthew Davion leaned against the wall; arms against his chest, as he watched out the observation window as the RCS Providence begin its slow burn to All Dawn’s primary jump point. Having finished its repairs and modifications to the RCS Cassandra, he knew the Fox-III Refit Ship was now on its way into Lyran space to Triesting where the battered hulk of the LCS Adam Steiner lay adrift, but salvageable, the Rim Collection had agreed to help the Lyrans salvage the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser as part of far a far larger trade agreement.
He turned his head to the side, noting a newcomer come to his side. It was Merchant saFactor Casey Horn of the Steelsoul Khanate. He was instantly on his guard, less he misspoke around her. “Respectable work in getting something out of this Dart,†the tall female Merchant remarked looking at the vessel through the window.
Matt turned his head back to the observation window, careful to hide his smile. “You mean your Clan is interested in her, quiaff,†he asked.
“Aff,†the Clan Merchant bit out. “It would make an excellent ship in our fleet. If I did not know it better, I would say you designed it for my Clan in mind.â€
“How so?†Matt queried the Clan woman. He already knew the answer, but played along.
She began as she matched his pose next to him. “The twelve docking collars and respectable cargo space for one. Thirty kilotons of fuel for another.â€
“Do not forget the integrated medical facilities, nor her integral fighter complement,†he joked.
“So you did redesign her for us?†she queried.
He shrugged in response. “We noticed the Clans generally lacked dedicated support ships for their fleets.†He said the Bears, Horses, Ravens and Nova Cats all had yardships but none had ships that could carry a variety of supplies instead relying on supply DropShips. “She might be a jack of all trades, but she should do just fine in that regard.â€
He caught her shadow nodding at his reply. More than fine,†she purred. “Will your government agree to a Trial of Possession for her,†she finally queried.
“Neg,†he quickly answered her. “And I doubt my government will license the design either.â€
Casey huffed. “Then only for trade, quiaff?†she asked.
“Not until we can manufacture more of her class,†he replied. “Unless you have spare Darts lying around?†he conceded.
“That will be decades!â€
“Our plan is to begin building warships in eight years,†he commented mildly.
“Still eight years!†Casey sighed. “Is there anyway for you to possibly expedite it?â€
“Possibly with your Clan’s support, but I refuse to promise anything until I see the state of the JumpShip yards when they arrive, from what I have been led to believe they were not in the greatest state before our forces began to break them down.†He answered the Draconis Combine had not cared to repair the facilities and the Mandrills had to quickly break them down when at Schyler leading to further damage.
The Sea Fox merchant cursed. “You know you are sitting on a gold mine, quiaff?â€
“Aff, but for now, there is not much the Collection or the Mandrills can do,†he informed her.
He heard her sigh and smiled, knowing she had taken the bait. “I will speak with the other leaders of my Khanate and to Khan Clarke,†Casey conceded. “No promises.â€
Matt nodded. “None expected.â€
He noted she turned to leave and then paused. He turned his head and scrunched his eyebrows as she turned back to him. “What is the story of the name change by the way,†Casey queried.
Matt chucked, figuring out why she was perhaps confused. “When we first began our redesign of her, we meant her to be a true warship it was only after we properly looked at her we knew we lacked the capability to turn her into a true warship. Instead of the name Wildfire we decided to honour Khan Cassandra Faraday with a vessel that could support our Clan well into the future.â€
Casey nodded to herself. “What type of warship if I may ask?â€
“Now that would be telling,†Matt remarked, winking at her. Casey shook her head before turning away. Matthew Davion heard something about incorrigible freebirths and laughed, knowing it was aimed for him.
SLDF Base of Operations
New Bealton, Odessa
16th December 3107
Captain Morgan Christifori entered the office of Lieutenant-General Amy Benton commander of the SLDF unit’s on the Jade Falcon/Hell’s Horses border and stood to attention in front of the seated Colonel. “Reporting as ordered Colonel†he said announcing himself.
“Welcome to Odessa, Captain†she said standing up looking at him “at ease Mr Christifori†she said stepping around the table. “You have done well against the Clans thus far Captain but the Hell’s Horses most recent attack on Summit has shown their desires and what they are willing to risk to succeed.†She said Morgan nodded he had heard of the Hell’s Horses attack on his burn towards Odessa four days before an entire Galaxy of the Horses Horde Clusters had attacked the Third Commonwealth Guards RCT on Summit supported by two WarShips. The Horde units were built around speed while the Guard units were all old heavy and assault designs it was inevitable that Summit would fall.
“The Horses have one of the strongest Toumans†Morgan said “and their attacks are bringing them closer to Odessa and Arcturus.†He surmised “should they capture either it would be a severe body blow to the Lyran Commonwealth.â€
“You are correct Captain†she said rising from her chair “which is why the High Command have directed that we do more striking behind enemy lines disrupting their supplies and command structure.†She explained Morgan nodded it was about time the SLDF took action action against the Clans, the enemy it was created to fight. “Unfortunately they cannot spare me another brigade for another three months when the Second Sirus Regimental Brigade will fully mobilize and join us†she explained her own Ninety-fourth Royal BattleMech Brigade was spread over Odessa, Grunweld and Garrison. “Instead I’ve been charged with supporting the Lyrans with this brigade.†She said Morgan thought she was being a little melodramatic the Ninety-Fourth itself had five Regiments three were made up of BattleMechs each with an attached artillery battalion while the remaining two were one elite jump infantry and an entire regiment of Battle Armour troops. All in all one of the strongest ground force Brigades the SLDF fielded, if they could concentrate against their enemy. “So instead I have had to improvise†she said moving over to a large table off to the right of the office Morgan followed her over standing a respective distance from the table his arms clasped behind his back. “This is the Horse border†she said indicating to the holo-map displayed just on top of the table the planet’s relative positions to each other hovering in space. Odessa, Grunweld and Garrison glowing gold showing the elements of the Ninety-fourth and their readiness “if we abandon these systems the Lyrans will be exposed†she said looking at Morgan “I can’t take our units forwards against the Horses but I can deploy elements off planet to strike the Horses. Companies and Battalions of our best trained and equipped troopers willing to take risks and if required make the ultimate sacrifice.â€
“I understand sir†Morgan said stepping forwards “with a couple of extra Mechs and their pilots my company stands ready to serve.†He said confidently General Benton smiled before looking back at the table.
“I think not, Captain, your company cannot make enough of an impact alone.â€
“With respect, General, my company will get the job done and everyone of us knows our duty and what is required of us we are part of a greater plan what comes, comes.†Morgan Christifori said making it clear to the General that he knew that he was just another officer and that his name meant nothing in the greater scheme of things.
“I know you are ready to serve Morgan†she said using his first name “and your people have done well but alone they cannot make enough of an impact.†She said “however as part of a greater Battalion which had the right commander they could do something special.â€
“We are ready to serve†Morgan said “sir, I knew my independent company couldn’t last forever, I can take orders.â€
“I am sure you could†she said “but who says you should?†General Benton asked a smirk crossing her lips as she shut down the holo-map revealing a pair of Major rank insignia pips. “Major Christifori you are out of uniform†she said stepping away from the table leaving Morgan to collect the new insignia before she continued “I’ve pulled Nico Cardin-Goyer and Paulina Kopec’s companies back to Odessa along with some new recruits we’re reinforcing your company and with a squadron of aerospace fighters they will form your new Battalion which has been designated the Ninety-fifth Special Operations Battalion of the Special Armed Service Division.â€
“Blackhearts†Morgan Christifori whistled surprised by the designation.
“Don’t let it go to your head Major†she warned him “you’re still under my command.â€
“Yes, General, we won’t let you down what is our target?â€
“Bountiful Harvest you leave at the end of the month when your transport arrives. Good luck to your Major and the Ninety-fifth.â€
Titanic (Sea Fox-class ArcShip)
Beta VII, Sea Fox Occupation Zone
Clan Occupation Zones
21st December 3107
At just shy of two million tons the Titanic lived up to her name. What had once been a Potemkin class assault cruiser was now a mobile home, factory and habitat for thousands of Clan Sea Fox military and civilian personnel. Her outer hull bulged where DropShips had been permanently attached to her hull, whilst hydroponic bays dotted her flanks and spine no longer a WarShip this vessel was a colony that moved between the stars. The massive ship sat at the centre of a fleet of DropShips and fighters, patrolling round the space going massive leviathan like small fish following an ocean going whale. But this titan was not alone, for another beast of the black swam alongside her, the Terror of the Deep a Nightlord II class battleship and flagship of Clan Sea Fox.
Her passengers had already been sent across to the Titanic and the two giants now cruised a few hundred meters apart as the conference started. Every Khanate had sent their representatives, and it was here that financial futures would be discussed, details on profitable markets, areas of growth and shrinkage and areas to be exploited as well as new designs showcased.
On the vessel’s largest gravity deck as the previous presentation about a planned assault transport VTOL came to an end Sub-Chief Scientist Katya stepped up and smiled. Around her she could see dozens of other Sea Fox personnel, Merchants, Sub-Factors, Scientists of all ranks as well as Warrior-Merchants, those bold profit and market seekers who would traveled across the Sphere with minimal support seeking smaller but none the less profitable markets with nothing but their own skill and acumen to support them. Beyond the gathered audience here there were hundreds more throughout the Titanic and on board the nearby vessels listening into this broadcast.
A light on the big holo-projector in the centre of the room came on and that indicated that it was her time to start speaking. She’d won the right to give this presentation after winning a Trial where she and her competitor had been tasked with ‘fixing’ the Great Depression of Ancient Terra, or at least lessening its impact based on historical information that was available to the time period. Katya had found the competition interesting from a historical point of view as well as a challenge she’d learned how to think like the traders of the past and face their challenges with the resources that they had. Their papers, reviewed by the Merchant Factor of the Bloodscent Khanate himself saw her declared the winner. So taking a deep breath Katya nodded and began.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I give to you today our workings from the last nine months. Whilst other Clans and the Spheroid houses are now producing greater numbers of Assault DropShips or Pocket WarShips it is a market we have yet to move into. And there is a market for such vessels. The Dominion is looking at producing their own design but that is caught in a bureaucratic snarl-up with their firms bickering about who would produce what. The Wolves have their Isegrim but lack the facilities to produce them at a useful rate. The Hells Horses also have a want for an assault ship that is not the decades old Noruff design. And the Ebon Guard would also desire an Assault vessel for their own uses in the defence of Tukkayid. There is also the potential to sell to the Inner Sphere, the Grand Council of course still having a say in what we can trade with our Spheroid contacts.†There were soft chuckles round the large chamber, the Foxes sold to whom they wanted and only paid polite lip service to the edicts on trade between the Clans and Houses.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Nagasawa class Assault Dropship.†The large central 3D holo-projector sprang to life, showing a perfectly clear image of a long, sleek and aggressive looking vessel. Smaller windows opened up displaying her statistics and predicted capabilities.
“Basing our design on the original Noruff, the Nagasawa is half again as large, massing three thousand tons and like the Noruff we chose to make her a fast and agile craft, with her engines producing twice the thrust of an Isegrim class vessel at full burn.†Katya said continuing as she saw the Foxes taking an interest in the design and begin comparing it to its nearest competitors.
“Unlike the Isegrim though we have chosen not to mount any sub-capital weaponry instead we have designed the Nagasawa’s weapons around a mixture of conventional ballistic and energy weapons. A quintet of our newest Rotary Autocannon-5 and a quintet of Extended Range Particle cannons form the vessels primary forward punch whilst extended range large lasers, LRM-20’s and large pulse lasers provide all round firepower. Each of the missile launchers are fitted with the latest Artemis-V tracking system whilst fifteen laser anti-missile systems provide the defences she needs.†She said explaining what had gone into the Nagasawa overall it was some of the most advanced conventional weapons available to the clans.
“Scientist factor we have developed our own sub-capital weapons why have they not been employed?†Another scientist Kinberg of the Deathstrike Khanate asked she could tell from his tone that the older warrior was not trying to challenge her instead he sounded curious.
“This weapons fit was chosen because honestly, if she was armed with sub-capital weaponry she would be under gunned, there is only so much you can fit on three thousand tons after all. Each of the weapons is in its own cradle which will allow them to be fully modular, and whilst not an Omni-vessel, our testing has shown that this makes the weapons easy to maintain and refit if needed.†She said their experiments on the prototype fixing alternate weapons to the hull had unfortunately failed on the holo-display the audience showed technicians working on a full scale mock-up of a RAC-5 mounting, with the weapon being dismounted and replaced in ten minutes.
The view then went to a 3D cutaway of the interior of the vessel. Katya moved around to the side of the holo-tank, a laser pointed highlighting sections of the ship’s hull which peeled back to reveal the interior layout.
“Using a wide range of input and experience as well as the latest in computer modelling the interior is laid out to be efficient and comfortable. And most importantly the vessel is sturdy. With ninety tons of Ferro-Aluminium armour the Nagasawa will take a hit from even a capital scale weapon and survive something that cannot be claimed by ships of this size and many far larger vessels cannot boast this level of protection. Combined with the ships speed which allows them to outrun large aerospace fighters and many medium sized ones they have the ability to move into the optimal position to bring its firepower to bare whilst taking the worst that an aggressor can throw back.â€
On the holo a simulated battle took place with a Nagasawa engaged against Spheroid fighters as well as a DropShip. The simulation showed the Nagasawa’s strengths, outmaneuvering a larger Spheroid Assault DropShip and crippling its engines before chasing down medium fighters that simply could not outrun it.
“Whilst not atmospheric capable it is capable of deep space patrols and escorting larger vessels.†She said the ship would be capable of escorting any of the Sea Fox WarShips and ArcShips and it would be able to attack enemies of their Clan. “The hull is also designed to be manufactured in sections, with each section fitting like a jigsaw piece. This allows for them to be constructed at smaller facilities and at greater speed than a traditionally keel or spine built DropShip. This would also allow for the sections to be built and sold as needed, creating a market for spare parts or indeed, spare sections. Each of these sections when broken down will measure thirty meters in length and with this, you could fit a fully broken down Nagasawa in the cargo bay of a Mule class transport. A competent work crew could assemble the hull within a matter of weeks, but of course the fitting out, installation of electronics and the vital systems would still take months, this can shave a significant amount of time from construction and allows the Engineers to work in a safe and pressurized environment.†She said seeing that she was beginning to lose her audience she decided to end it quickly.
“Should construction be approved we believe that the first star of Nagasawas can be ready within four months and that would be using the production facilities we have aboard the Titanic. A fixed facility could produce them at a greater rate. And we do need these vessels. Whilst each fleet has its self defence capabilities, there are well founded concerns about what might happen if we were turned upon. Whilst the other Clans simply cannot and will not, because they need us and our trade, the House Lords are far more fickle, and we have seen what they are capable of thanks to the Capellans actions many years ago.†A low murmur went round the chamber, the words were true the Sea Fox Clan could not afford to lose another of their mobile colonies.
Whilst the ArcShips were massive, they were no battleship, and their tactical doctrine called for them to simply jump away if threatened, using DropShips and fighters as a sacrificial screen. Most ArcShips lacked a heavy escort and only the Terror of the Deep could fight a major battle, and she was being outclassed by the latest vessels to come out. There were calls by the Warriors to trade for or obtain in battle the first Arbitration-class vessel to be built to help secure the Clans valuable assets, as well as calls for more WarShips to escort the absolutely priceless ArcShips everything was considered expendable. Even the Terror of the Deep was expected to sacrifice herself if an ArcShip was threatened by an opposing military force, and this lack of major defence sat heavily in the minds of many of the Khanates.
“And while our military strength is enough to discourage adventurism the Spheroids may try us, and with the Nagasawa we can and will meet any challenge that comes our way.â€
The holo now displayed a ‘typical’ ArcShip surrounded by a swarm of Nagasawas, their bright engine flares driving back an off-screen darkness as the symbol changed to that of the Diamond Shark’s insignia. Katya smiled as she knew she’d done well this day and it would be noted in her codex and if production was approved, promotion, prestige and profit all beckoned.
“Now moving on to a lighter subject, we feel that there is another market for us to exploit, and for this we must call upon one of our most potent forces.†Katya said, she knew about the next presentation and decided to ‘big it up’ somewhat as she stepped back. An eager and young looking Merchant stepped up as the Scientist took her seat, smiling at the applause she received as well as notifications on her console about personal meetings regarding the design.
“I wish to thank Scientist Katya for yielding the floor and I apologise for the tonal shift. But there is a market that we have not thought to swim, one that helps all of the Clans of Kerensky, and stands to bring great profit at minimal cost and with maximum impact.†The lights dimmed and a rather happy yet stirring piece of music started playing before the holo sprang to life projecting yellow highlighted orange words that read ‘The New Adventures of Clan Spaniel!’ As a rousing musical soundtrack began introducing the new holo-vid show which was being proposed for release to the Clan and Inner Sphere populations.
AFFS Facility
Lee, Lee PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
27th December 3107
For the last six months this deal had been on the table and finally the two sides met face to face. Duchess Kym Hasek felt nervous sitting opposite the older General Stormy Hutton head of the District of Oriente’s ground force military. “Both ships are ready for delivery as are the agreed ground forces.†She said looking at the older woman “as agreed both ships await your prize crews while my ground forces are ready to move into the region when you agree.†She said confident knowing that she had the Oriente officer where she wanted.
“You are enjoying this aren’t you?†Hutton asked there was an angry edge to her voice Kym Hasek knew why many of Oriente’s troopers had died fighting the Capellans and now with Regulus at their backs Oriente had been forced to turn to the Federated Suns for assistance. “You know during the Clan invasion the shoe was on the other foot? It was the Federated Commonwealth coming crawling to the Free Worlds League for weapons and arms and we did not ask for territory.â€
“I do not believe the Federated Commonwealth asked for access to WarShips.†Kym Hasek said putting it into perspective each of the WarShips they were talking about was worth the GDP of the two planets in question while the ground forces included were almost an afterthought.
“Only because time has been good to your Suns†Hutton continued “it is almost like it has been written that no ill will befall your people while all others suffer.†She said angrily “I trust you know that your time will come?â€
“Your leader has agreed to this trade do not jeopardize it now†Kym Hasek warned she was not particularly happy with the High Command’s decision and knew that her people could take both planets and many more in a concentrated assault on Oriente’s territory but the decision was not hers to make. The First Prince had decreed that the Federated Suns should not attack its Star League Defence Force neighbours and instead concentrate on the Capellan Confederation unlike her father, George Hasek, Kym was not in the position to disobey New Avalon’s instructions.
“I know my duty I just do not like this whole situation my nation has found itself in†Hutton said resigned to dealing on the Federated Suns terms “my troops will being to withdraw from Sakhalin and Sarna by the end of the week.†She said finally “you may move troops into the systems at anytime but none are to set foot on either planet until we complete our withdrawal. As agreed between our governments anyone who wishes to leave either system for the next six months will be allowed to at the expense of the Federated Suns with travel paid for on commercial transports to bring them into the Free Worlds League both WarShips and the ground troops are to be delivered to the Suzano system before I leave this system or the deal will be off.â€
“That is what was agreed†Kym Hasek agreed smiling extending her hand which General Stormy Hutton met and shook “and now it is for the Federated Suns to return this world to prosperity.†Kym Hasek said taking one final dig at the Oriente General since the fighting between he Capellans and Oriente Sarna and nearby Sakhalin had suffered from an economic depression which the District of Oriente did not have the money to support. Now the Federated Suns could return to the soil and fix the problems while the DMI agents embedded on the planet could cease their activities the First Prince had directed no open combat activities but had said nothing about intelligence activities Kym thought as the meeting ended another victory for the Capellan March.
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This stuff is great. I enjoyed reading the whole thing.
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Glad to hear you enjoyed it that's the reason for the whole thing
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Time to dive into 3108
3108
Naval battle
Grunwald, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
4th January 3108
“Bring us to port!†Kommadore Aime Muller shouted as her Indefatigable-class Battleship the LCS Diligence was hit by Naval Autocannon and Naval Gauss Rifle fire from a Halcyon-class Cruiser and a Jade Lion-class Battle-cruiser. The Hell’s Horses had arrived in the system an hour before and both WarShips had moved to engage the Diligence and Peter Steiner-Davion that had been sent to blunt the Hell’s Horses advance. Both of the Horse WarShips were concentrating on the Peter Steiner-Davion cutting into the WarShip’s armour unfortunately for them the Indefatigable had a massive amount of armour compared to the Clan vessels and it gave the Diligence free movement around the area. “Open the Cruiser to space!†She commanded as the vessel turned naval lasers and missiles slammed into the rear of the Halcyon smashing the Cruiser’s engines. The Diligence turned as quickly as a 1.8 million ton WarShip could its weapons arrays tearing open the Hell’s Horses Cruiser.
“Peter is reporting heavy damage to their port fore quarter†one of the crew reported the two Horse WarShips had realized they could not win and had gone all out to destroy one of the Lyran Battleships targeting one area of armour with all their firepower. In space the Peter Steiner-Davion began a slow roll as the Halcyon passed by the vessel continuing to fire despite its destroyed engines. As the Hell’s Horses WarShip passed close to the Lyran Battleship its broadside gauss rifles and lasers tore through the cruiser’s already damaged armour blowing open the side of the ship the massive opening of the ship altered the Halcyon’s course sending the remaining wreckage towards open space.
Even as the Halcyon was dispatched the Jade Lion continued to attack making runs past the Peter Steiner-Davion’s fore quarters engaging the larger vessel with naval autocannon and particle cannon fire smashing the armour there. “Hull breaches reported on Peter!â€
“Inform Peter to cut all forward thrust and deaccelerate as quickly as they can but DO NOT turn remain on course!†Aime Muller commanded “have them prepare a concentrated burst of weapons fire on the enemy vessel as we pass†she ordered turning to the helm station “helm officer bring us on a direct course with the Peter, I want you to put us on a course that will take us directly past their nose! Weapons pass to all battery crews as we come past that Jade Lion I want them to gut her with everything we have left ignore the remaining aerospace fighters and DropShips.†She commanded as the giants of the deep manoeuvred the Diligence turned again heading on a direct course for the front of the Peter as the Jade Lion came in once more the two massive battleships past each other less than one hundred kilometres apart as the Jade Lion closed suddenly both battleships were in the same area of space and both were concentrating on the remaining Jade Falcon Battle-cruiser. The weapons fire from the two WarShips combined would be too much for a WarShip that carried three times the armour as the Jade Lion. Missiles lasers and gauss rifles tore into the Jade Lion’s armour ripping through the skin of the WarShip and shattering its internal bulkheads. In a single weapons salvo the once proud Battle-cruiser was shattered and turned into a floating hulk its wreckage drifting into space.
There were cheers throughout the LCS Diligence as the final Hell’s Horses WarShip was dispatched by their gunnery crews but Aime Muller remained calm and in command. “Let’s mop up these fighters and head towards the planet they are going to need our help with the Clusters that made it through our blockade. And get me a line to the Commanding Officer on the Peter they need to stay here and make sure no more Horses enter the system.â€
Several days later the LCS Diligence arrived near Grunwald. With their naval support gone the two Horde Clusters that had made it to the planet had charged directly at the two Commonwealth Guard units on the planet causing massive damage to the Third Commonwealth Guards causing the command to collapse but at great cost with both Clan units also crippled in the fighting. With Diligence in orbit the remaining Horses agreed to accept an offer of Hegira and retreat from the planet with the salvage from the Fifth Horde Cluster left broken on the planet. In one battle the Lyrans had showed the attacking Horses that they were ready to stand up to them and defeat them.
Diplomatic Meeting, Mountain Wolf Command
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th January 3108
Led through the caverns of Gallery Archon Jessica Steiner marvelled at what the Mountain Wolf population had done under the windswept surface of Gallery building a massive habitation and construction habitat in the months since their retreat from Arc Royal. Intelligence reports suggested the Mountain Wolves had taken inspiration from the Jade Falcon Clan and graduated their cadet warriors earlier than normal to raise two further clusters of warriors. Intelligence had thrown around the term “child soldiers†but according to the reports she had read the Mountain Wolves had not gone to the same extremes as the Falcons only graduating those of the age of sixteen without the normal trials of position. Entering Khan Amina Kerensky’s office the Archon was glad to see the young Khan was waiting for her sitting behind her desk in the uncluttered office.
“Welcome to Wolf City†Amina Kerensky said not rising from her chair
“Thank you Khan Kerensky†Jessica said moving across to another chair she noted that her Elemental escort and bodyguards had waited outside leaving her and Khan Kerensky alone. “How is your Clan dealing with life on Gallery?â€
“Having the sun above us instead of rock would be better but this is needed for our rebuilding†she said looking back at the Archon. “My people understand their current position and are ready to serve the greater good.â€
“Speaking of which that brings me to the reason I am here.†The Archon said looking at the Khan “your Clan could do much more for the Lyran Commonwealth and for your own people.â€
“I am listening†Amina calmly replied
“The Mountain Wolves officially become part of the Lyran military with the full benefits and support of any other brigade of the Commonwealth.†Jessica began seeing the Mountain Wolf Khan had remained quiet she continued “essentially I suggest the Mountain Wolves officially become members of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. You will be your own brigade with warriors taken from your own training program…â€
“But we will not be Clan!†Amina Kerensky seethed interrupting she snapped rising from her chair “we have protected your Commonwealth we have fought beside you, protected you! And is the treatment my Clan can expect? I think not Archon Steiner the Wolf Accords protect my Clan’s independence, and complete autonomy; I will not give that up for anyone!†She said finally turning her back to the Lyran Archon “it is time for you to leave, Archon Steiner, before I say or do something that I will regret.†She said refusing to turn towards the Lyran Commonwealth remaining facing away from Jessica Steiner until the door was opened by a Wolf Elemental. Unlike the escort she had when she arrived the Elemental now wore a full set of Battle Armour minus its missile unit. Archon Jessica Steiner was escorted through the facility to her DropShip which was then escorted to the JumpShip by Wolf Isegrim Assault DropShips.
By the time Jessica Steiner left the system she had learned that the Wolf Potemkin-class WarShip Full Moon and the Clan’s forces on Odessa and on the Jade Falcon border had abandoned their positions returning towards Gallery. Realizing her mistake Archon Jessica Steiner quickly past word across the Lyran Commonwealth that the Mountain Wolves should not be approached or stopped during their transit across the Commonwealth hoping that allowing them to regroup on Gallery would mend some of the wounds she had opened.
Counter-attack
Addicks PDZ, Draconis March
Federated Suns
22nd January 3108
As word is passed of the AFFS assault on Royal Draconis Combine forces assault the systems of Helen, Towne, Murchison and Addicks. The DCMS find elements of the Fourth Deneb Light Cavalry RCT and the Fourth Davion Guards RCT in the systems along with the FSS St George, a Congress II-class Frigate, in the Addicks system. As the DCS Akagi and the DCS Electra dispatch the FSS St George DCMS ground forces land on Addicks assaulting the AFFS ground forces on the planet bringing war to the Draconis March.
By the end of January Murchison, Towne, Skat and Markab are in the hands of the Draconis Combine as the Combine extends their offensive catching an unprepared AFFS flatfooted while Addicks and Helen are the scene of heavy fighting between the DCMS and AFFS and their hired mercenary forces.
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Good update, shame that as always every time the Commonwealth do something good we do something dumb to even it out.
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So break time is over time for an update. The first part comes from marauder468. And there might be a hint of JA Baker about the Draconis Combine update
Raids
Free Worlds League
2nd February 3108
Sergeant Hone looked at the smoking remains of the Ostsol, the thing was a positively ancient 4F version, when its leg had been sheared off by Corporal Vine’s Orion it had collapsed like a sack of potatoes before its chest and cockpit blew out moments later.
‘Scuttling charges’ he thought. Whilst the tech’s were going over the wrecked museum piece and three other equally old BattleMechs they found no identifying marks, no maker’s numbers, nothing. And the four pilots were not talking, the blasts that had consumed their cockpits had seen to that.
What was clear was a blood red 99 on the shoulder and this had been seen on two other worlds when Mech’s had hit seemingly random targets before making off with inactive computer cores and miles of wiring and other assorted parts. Even the League’s Intel services were apparently drawing a blank, the raids and the material taken was of little use unless it was to sell to a nation or state who needed modern computer systems.
Several raids against seemingly random targets were reported by an unknown pirate band identifying themselves as The Crazy 99. The Pirate forces were large and well equipped with Mechs and vehicles, all were of Succession Wars era vintage but even those were enough to cause damage to an unprepared target. The Free Worlds League Military JumpShip Wild Ride had been boarded and captured, her four DropShips taken in a brief battle. The loss of her cargo of metal ores destined for Atreus was a minor irritation to the Free Worlds League but it showed the lengths that the raiders were willing to go to. So far neither the Wild Ride nor The Crazy 99 had been located reminding everyone just how big space was.
A week later a computer manufacturer was raided and a large number of high capacity mainframes were taken whilst raiding Mech’s held off the Security forces on world before withdrawing. Another raid went sour when the raiders encountered Marik troops on exercise, four Mechs were lost, but all their scuttling charges fired, destroying any evidence where they had come from.
Few knew the truth about the new pirate band, where their resources came from or why they went to the lengths to kill any fallen warriors and destroy their BattleMechs. Those that knew the truth knew The ‘Crazy 99’ was actually elements of the Cohors Morituri of the Marian Hegemony. The prison unit had been reinforced to twenty BattleMechs along with a dozen tanks and infantry support. These troops had been offered reduced or commuted Sentences in return for their efforts if they were successful and survived the battle. They were also viewed as being utterly expendable, and as they were already criminals, if caught then it gave the Marians plausible deniability.
Sister Cassandra looked at the reports on her desk. The ores obtained from the EOC DropShips could be rendered down to provide the metals needed to replace the hull sections most heavily affected by the radiation surge that had killed the Sagan’s crew as well as providing a surplus to help repair the Aqua Vitae yard. The Computers were not fully compatible but with most of those in the SLS C. Sagan had been fried and these replacements would suffice. Of course the raid on Niops IV to get electro-magnets to help maintain the fusion reactors had failed, and new targets were being sought. Of course one possible target was the Sea Fox JumpShips that travelled between their colony worlds of Westover and Zortman, but that would require travelling far deeper into the Free Worlds League than they had ever planned and an attack against the Foxes often brought angry reprisals from the Merchant Clan. Thinking about the Foxes Cassandra was tempted to provide the Marians with some Free Worlds League native designs and ordering the attack blaming it on the Free Worlds League and hopefully souring the relationship between the Foxes and House Marik.
Still she considered two out of three successful raids wasn’t bad for an initial run, and the metal ore and computers would go a great way to repairing the C. Sagan as well as getting the Marians in the technological debt of Interstellar Expeditions and their sponsors. And of course, there were always more targets choose from, perhaps heading north into the rather thin Steiner border might net gain. With them having to watch the Wolves on their border and with the Falcons rebuilding and Horses attacking, surely a small ‘pirate band’ would be able to get away with murder. Quite literally.
Meanwhile additional personnel were already arriving at the Aqua Vitae yards along with the first DropShips carrying new machine parts and replacement equipment to begin the long process of readying the yard and slip for construction once more. It was projected to take years, but Cassandra and her acquaintances were more than willing to play the long game.
“Lady Cassandra, the Caesar is here.†She smiled slightly as the younger man strode past her bowing slaves and she too bowed, a hand on her heart.
“Hail Caesar†she whispered as he stepped closer she sensed movements of his arms and felt his breath on her skin.
“Sister Cassandra…†He whispered back and she was in his arms a moment later the Marians would be in her pocket forever if everything continued as she planned.
Defence Line
Oriente City, Oriente
District of Oriente, Capellan Confederation
8th February 3108
The Capellan Confederation’s Dynasty Guard, at least one of their Warrior Houses and several supporting regiments had landed on Oriente in the dead of night lighting up the sky of explosions as they launched their initial attacks against the Fifth Oriente Hussars. In the six hours since the combine-arms regiment had been all but destroyed but it had bought the time needed.
“This is our home!†Colonel Christina Cruz shouted at the infantry around her as the Second Ducal Guard deployed their defensive lines. “The Mechs and armour are going to push these snakes off our home but we, WE, are going to be the ones who hold this ground!†She said as troopers moved into positions. We are the Mobile Infantry of Oriente we are going to push these bastards back to their DropShips one step at time. We are going to bleed them for every step.†She called out as a huge explosion filled the night’s sky above them. Cruz could see her troopers looking up at the expanding ball that could only be the OPS Cole Harbour or the OPS Kearny, the two Oriente Monolisk-class WarShips defending the system. “Ignore it!†She commanded trying to keep the troopers with her on their own mission. “I don’t care what the Capellan Confederation does to us, WE DO NOT FAIL TODAY!†She almost screamed at the troopers around her. The Confederation had conquered Andruien, which was now deep in House Liao claimed space and becoming a distant memory that it was once a House Marik holding, they would not take Oriente as well.
In the space above them the sole remaining Oriente WarShip OPS Kearny and her escort flotilla of assault DropShips continued to duel against the invaders who still fielded a Carrier, a Battleship and a Destroyer. “Turn us towards that Davion III†Flag Captain Gwen Yates commanded sighting the CCSS Hendrick Liao as her target. The Capellans called the ship the Zi-jin-class but everyone knew it was a captured Federated Suns vessel “as we approach have the remaining planetary batteries continue fire on that Battleship let’s bleed the Capellans.†She commanded as her lone Destroyer moved once more against the Capellans an Overlord A3-class DropShip rolling into the Monolisk’s path taking a hit destined for the Kearny. The DropShip had no chance of surviving the hit, the crew had to know that, but they were ready to take the hit to allow the Kearny to get into position to fire.
As the lone WarShip closed on the Capellan flotilla the Kearny occasionally rolled providing different armour and gunners against the enemy while aerospace fighters and DropShips died in the void between the WarShips. Naval weapons and conventional weapons flew between the two sides with the Kearny concentrating on breaking the Hendrick Liao while the Capellans peeled away the Kearny’s escort and began to cause heavier damage to the lone destroyer. On the command deck of the Kearny Flag Captain Gwen Yates looked at her watch watching the minutes count down, she checked their position for the hundredth time as she felt the ship rock from more hits, she knew her ship could not last much longer against the onslaught she faced nor did it need to. The countdown on her watch finally hit zero. “Hard to port!†She commanded “weapons stations continue on Hendrick Liao, communications command defence net to target local DropShips and the Hendrick Liao but no wild shots!†She commanded as her WarShip continued its turn bringing the broadside against the hapless Hendrick Liao which was now little more than a floating hulk.
Above the Capellan formation a flash of light filled space and within moments a new WarShip had entered the system the OPS Star Knight. The Avalon II-class Cruiser recently acquired from the Federated Suns was still painted in its red primer of the Federated Suns navy but it was a welcome sight to the Oriente defenders. Even as the Star Knight began its assault on the Capellan Battleship with its naval autocannons and missiles the vessel’s sister ship Star Witch emerged over the planet ready to add another layer to the planet’s defence.
With capital missiles exploding all over the Bain Cheng Wang-class Chancellor’s Destiny and Oriente ground forces digging in holding the ground they had taken. Pulling off Oriente in what could only be described as disarray three regiments worth of armoured vehicles are abandoned on the field as the Capellans find their landing zones overrun by the Oriente defenders. In space weapons fire from the Star Witch cut several more DropShips from space completely destroying Warrior House Kamata in a fiery explosion. Oriente had lost an entire ground force regiment, one of their Monolisk-class Destroyers had been destroyed and another crippled but they had bloodied the Capellan Confederation once more and survived to fight again.
Border Conflict
Addicks, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
11th February 3108
As the Fifth Crucis Lancers RCT arrive on Addicks to support the defence against the Draconis Combine word arrives that the Fourth Deneb Light Cavalry has been forced to withdraw from Helen and further attacks have occurred in the Cylene, Galatea III and Ozawa systems as the DCMS expand their offensive into the Draconis March. The survivors from Helen report a new class of Draconis Combine WarShip over Helen which resembles a Davion Columbia or Mercury-class Battleship in shape and size. Federated Suns intelligence have no information on the capabilities of the vessel which has appeared from nowhere DMI spies in the region report only the name DCS Akagi.
As the fighting continues between the Federated Suns and the Draconis Combine further cracks appear between the Star League member states as the Taurian Concordat launches raids against several bordering worlds with the Federated Suns shattering any illusion of peace.
SLDF Proving Grounds
New Earth, Star League Protectorate
19th February 3108
“This is incredible Governor Cameron†Colonel Mitch Henderson said looking over the lines of BattleMechs in front of him. Each was a variation of the one that came before it in increasing sizes all were based around a quad chassis and every one of them was under remote control. “An entire drone regiment I never thought I’d see the day.†He said looking at the legions of Drone Mechs in front of him overhead the air was controlled by Blackwasp Drone Aerospace Fighters, copied from those originally carried by the SLS Wasp.
“I’ll be honest, Colonel, in many ways neither did I the SLDF planned to experiment with such a unit one that could be used to defend far flung difficult to support outposts†Bannister Cameron explained. It had been part of the Wasp’s original mission perimeters to experiment with large scale drone deployments, like the Casper WarShip drones, but they had only been able to perfect the Blackwasp units advancing their AI to the point where the drones needed minimal direction. “These units will still need far more human input than I would like†he admitted looking over the units “but it is a start. If I can convince the command council of their worth then every planetary guard could be equipped with a support unit increasing every planet’s defences for a minimal manpower usage.â€
“There will be a lot of opposition towards their deployment, Governor; many already oppose the further deployment of Casper units.†Henderson pointed out. Many were afraid of the Casper Drones after hearing horror stories about what the original vessels did under the commander of Stefan Amaris.
“I know Colonel†Cameron said looking over the assembled drones “which is why you’ve been tasked with putting a human face on this unit and showing that it is here to support human defenders not replace them and certainly not wipe out towns and cities of citizens. They are a tool for our defence not a doomsday device.â€
“I will do my best Governor…†Henderson said hesitating before he spoke again “sir, as I understand it your command’s research into drone tech is what brought us to this point so I understand why you are here.†He said Cameron didn’t look back instead he remained looking at the assembled Drones as they began to turn moving as units onto the Proving Grounds behind. “But, sir, Commanding-General Focht is the commander of the Star League Defence Force why is he not the one giving out these orders?†Cameron had expected the question and the answer that followed would test Henderson’s loyalty to breaking point he knew.
“Because Victor Focht is one of those people against drone and AI development he is against this unit’s even existence†he explained “he would prefer to see every one of these Mechs broken down and replaced with BattleMechs controlled by flesh and blood. He would prefer to see fathers; mothers, brothers and sisters die in battles that could be fought by these BattleMechs, vehicles and fighters.†He said looking at the Colonel “the Command-General would like to see this project shutdown, he would like to see all funding transferred and this entire little experiment abandoned permanently. I believe that this unit we have created will be another weapon in the Star League Protectorate’s arsenal he believes it is a waste and he will come gunning for us and anyone involved in this project so if you want out Colonel it’s your choice.†Cameron said finally turning towards Henderson.
“I will prove the Commanding-General wrong and show him that this is something we can use.†Henderson said as he spoke Bannister reached out and the two shook hands.
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Nice update! Looks like it is the start of the challenging times for the FS realm! The MH and its ally is slowly getting their plans into place. The new warships that the Duchy of Oriente has actually helped them against the CC!! Wonder how many more twists and plots you and the others have coming?
Keep it up!!!
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Nice update! Looks like it is the start of the challenging times for the FS realm! The MH and its ally is slowly getting their plans into place. The new warships that the Duchy of Oriente has actually helped them against the CC!! Wonder how many more twists and plots you and the others have coming?
Keep it up!!!
As always many twists to come
Society Work Base 6 Alpha
Babylon City, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
9th March 3108
After six months working with the Society Alex Lassenem he had learned a lot about the Society and how they ruled. While the Society was very good at hiding things and working around rules put in place by the Clans but they were very poor at detecting those working against them from the inside. Alex had learned that once you were into a Society group they trusted you as one of them Alex’s unit had been described as never-do-well Clan warriors who wished to be on top of the new order.
In the six months they had done well with the Society with only two minor incidents the first had been the most dangerous when MechWarrior Flynn, one of the Septicemia pilots, had hesitated in firing her weapons to disperse a crowd of civilians who were protesting about delayed food shipments to Babylon. When the scientist had ordered the firing for a second time Flynn had fired their OmniMech’s pulse weapons roughly a metre over the crowd quickly dispersing the civilians. Their scientist commander had wanted the weapons into the crowd but had accepted the results. The second had been closer to exposing what his unit were doing on Babylon when MechWarrior Sylvester, the Cephalus pilot, had been pulled up by the scientists over his constant trips down the same route. Sylvester had explained he was visiting a local brothel, following the course of human nature, the scientists had investigated Sylvester’s claim and found he was telling the truth he had been visiting the brothel and exchanging credits for their services. Soon after the scientists had announced that all warriors who wished to visit the brothels were welcome to as long as they did so in their own time giving Alex’s team an excuse to drop data along that route when they wanted to.
During the time on Babylon Alex and his team had learned much about the Society and its workings the Scientists controlled everything but the warriors were given a lot of leeway in what they did. The MechWarriors while given little authority over what they did on the field were allowed to do whatever they wanted in their personal time, much like in regular Clan society, they were given the best of food and kept in the best physical shape. Alex suspected that this was due to the fact that there were only twenty-two MechWarriors on the planet outside his own unit of six. While aerospace fighter pilots were as important as the MechWarriors the majority of them remained in space or on their bases and Alex had not encountered them much. The ProtoMech Warriors were the strangest of the lot while numerous they were also the most detached Alex had yet to hold a single conversation outside of training or combat. When off duty if they were not eating they remained inside their ProtoMechs constantly as one with the machine. The Armour crews were the most numerous of all of the Society warriors with the numbers of armoured vehicles he had seen enough to give the most loyal Hell’s Horses warrior a wet dream. The crews were treated well but because of their number they were seen as less prestigious as the MechWarriors. And the last group of their warriors were the Infantry. While unarmoured infantry guarded most bases and were numerous the Battle Armoured Elementals were far rarer and were only seen at the most important encounters.
One thing that may explain the lack of Elementals and their Power Armour was something Alex had overheard when assisting in moving equipment in the command bunker was that the Society had lost its source of HarJel when renegade Goliath Scorpion Warriors and Sea Fox traders had brought eight nuclear weapons to Hoard one of the primary sources of HarJel in the Cluster. The nuclear fire had reacted badly to the atmosphere and Hoard’s surface had burned if the Society reports were to be believed it was now a dead world. Without HarJel to repair the battle damage to Elemental Power Armour it would make the Society’s Elementals far more susceptible to losses in the field. The information had already been sent off Babylon to be analysed by the Clan’s experts unfortunately that was all that seemed to be happening. Whatever reason Alex was here so far the Clan had not reacted to the intelligence gathered instead all he and his team could do is continue to gather data.
Lying on his bed he heard the handle on the door of his room creek as someone turned it quickly he grabbed one of the Society’s “Warrior books†and pretended to read it just as Scientist Leader Sophie O’Brien stepped in. She was young perhaps twenty-five years old and she was their primary handler and interface with the leadership of the Society on Babylon. While Alex found her attractive she had an annoying ability to be able to read people. “Group Commander Alex I hope I am not interrupting you?†She asked standing in the door way looking at the book.
“No just catching up on my reading†Alex said lifting the book.
“What is your favourite part?†She asked Alex knew she was trying to trip him up so decided to show her up.â€
“If Nicholas Kerensky, the Great Founder of us all, had been more of a Scientist than a Warrior REVIVAL would have been far more successful.†He began seeing she was impressed “as soon as the warrior caste successfully secured the planets we should have begun the systematic round up and execution of all planetary politicians, the sick, deformed, old and infirm. This action would have broken these planets’ resistance and pacified the populations allowing us to move forward quickly from system to system.†He said reciting the words from the book.
“The late Etienne Balzac†she said recognizing the words stepping into the room “you are an impressive man Alex†she said looking at him with a smile “I am not the only one who has noticed.†She said continuing to give him a disarming smile “which is why I have come here to warn you Scientist General Michael Gibson will be coming here.†She announced Alex’s attempt to cover his surprise failed as he immediately thought of looking across the street on Fasa at the Scientist General. “Yes, I was as surprised but with your team things should run very smoothly†she said “and with that both your team and mine would be well rewarded.†She suggested Alex nodded while Sophie continued to smile withdrawing backwards out of his room pulling the door slowly closed. Alex continued to read the scientist dribble for several moments before reaching for his micro-transmitter into the small machine he typed a small message.
“AFTER MUSTER ;)†before sending the message.
At 1830 the six MechWarriors, three times as many ProtoMech pilots and many more armoured warriors appeared in front of the Scientist leadership including Sophie O’Brien. After they were shown to be attending Alex marched straight over towards MechWarrior Laurel grabbing her around the waste drawing her into an embrace intentionally kissing her in front of the scientists. They knew that the warriors needed personal contact and with Alex kissing Laurel it would hopefully give Sophie O’Brien the message he wanted to send. Since the two were off duty they headed directly towards Alex’s quarters where the two of them spent the next several hours despite the intentional public show of affection being aimed at driving off Sophie O’Brien Alex had to admit he also enjoyed it.
“So he is coming here? That must be our target†Laurel said as they lay in bed. “But we have sent the data dump for this week.â€
“Aff†Alex said he was lying behind her on the bed “we need an excuse to send a second data dump.†He said “tomorrow when we go out on patrol we will go up Atacon Pass†he said “we will pass over the loose rocks we saw the other week I will intentionally lose control over the Mech and fall down the slope. Before you guys can return with the lifting gear I will slip away to the relay point and send the message.†He said
“The damage to your Mech could cause you your position.†She said “I have a superior plan. I will use my OmniMech’s jump jets to slow my fall.†She said leaning into him “I will not be able to jump back up from there and will have to go the long way that should being me close enough to the transmitter to send a data dump.â€
“It is risky†he said kissing her bare shoulder “you think you can control the fall?â€
“Better than you could in that monster†she pointed out “I can do it but first we make the most of tonight†she said turning around towards him under the covers.
Patrol Route
Atacon Pass, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
10th March 3108
The next day things were going exactly as the two of them had predicted as they moved through the pass Alex had ordered Laurel not to tell the others their part in the plan. When they passed over the rocks Sylvester called out the loose rocks the same as he always did and everyone acknowledged them. Unable to use the jump jets in the tight confines the pass Laurel manoeuvred her Septicemia through the pass intentionally standing on the unstable rocks suddenly they gave way and the fifty-five ton OmniMech slipped “OH HELL!†She shouted out as her Mech fell onto its chest smashing armour plates before the legs went over the edge the other Septicemia pilot moved to assist but Laurel screamed at Flynn to stay back “NO WE’LL BOTH GO OVER†she warned “I’ve got this†she said as the Mech went over she expertly turned her Mech so its back armour was scrapping against the loose rocks while cutting in the OmniMech’s jump jets slowing the fall until she reached the ground below.
“Are you alright?†Alex asked his OmniMech had been anchoring the column at the back and he’d seen it all.
“Aff, stavag I mean yes†she said correcting herself the Scientists did not like the Clan’s Aff, Neg and their interrogatives Quiaff and Quineg. “Light armour damage and a smashed hand actuator.†She reported “unfortunately I will not get back up from here.†She said sounding so disappointed.
“Circle back through the forest†Alex ordered “return to base yourself we will return after the patrol.†Mentioning the forest should tip off the other MechWarriors that she was heading towards the relay station while the rest of them completing their patrol would cover for her absence.
Several hours later Alex and Laurel stood with Scientist Leader Sophie O’Brien watching the gun camera footage of Laurel’s Septicemia as she smashed through the trees of Babylon a silver communications dish on a tower stood out. The Septicemia’s torso twisted to the left and then to the right covering the full rotation before locking on the tower firing its main weapons destroying the tower O’Brien froze the image. “Please explain your actions, MechWarrior.†She said looking at Laurel
“I believed it was a Clan intelligence gathering tower†the MechWarrior explained “I scanned the area for Clan contacts then eliminated the target.â€
“You could have secured it for future study by our people.†O’Brien pressed the point for a moment.
“Ne… No I could not†Laurel said quickly catching herself “I moved through the forests from an unplanned point and had no guarantee I could lead a team back through that area.†She said looking at Alex who nodded “eliminating the target reduced the rebels’ ability to communicate giving us a better chance at eliminating them.â€
“I see†O’Brien said “Group Commander she is your responsibility†she said delegating disciplinary action to Alex.
“Yes, I believe she was correct†he said knowing that O’Brien would know they had been involved physically and that he would protect her. “The more we can cut off the clan rebels from each other the easier they will be to destroy.â€
“Fine dismissed†she said allowing them both to leave as they returned to their quarters Alex leaned towards Laurel.
“I assume you transmitted the data before you fired?â€
“Aff, I knew she would check my gun footage†Laurel replied “I had no option but to destroy the tower.†She said as they continued entering Alex’s quarters.
“Aff, you did well.†He agreed as they both slipped down onto the bed “now let us hope things go the way we want.†With them together again so soon after the incident it should be the perfect cover for Laurel’s actions and Alex’s decision to protect her. Now they had to wait and see if Scientist General Gibson was the Clan’s target.
Clan Watch Operations
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
16th March 3108
As Clan Coyote continue their operations against Society Cells within their Occupation Zone Clan Jade Falcon do the same in their own territory eliminating several stars worth of warriors and nearly a dozen scientists in a series of raids. Unlike the Coyotes who have been taking great pains to avoid collateral damage the fighting between the Falcons and the members of the Society cause more than five hundred civilian casualties as the fighting gets out of hand on several worlds.
Command Headquarters
Addicks, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
21st March 3108
Duke Mordecia Sandoval marched proudly into the command room of the Addicks PDZ. His forces had been directed by the AFFS High Command and by New Avalon itself to support the defence of Addicks from intrusion by the Draconis Combine. His cousin Joseph had signed an order supporting his reassignment. Moving through the Headquarters stepping up to the main map table “what is the status of our defences here?†He asked loudly expecting an immediate answer; he was after all a member of the March’s ruling family.
“With your forces added to my own Fourth, the Fifth Crucis Lancers RCT and the Federated Suns Lancers RCT we effectively have four RCTs to turn back any intrusion onto this planet. The Naval forces in the system can counter anything the Combine can throw at us.†Field Marshal Rebecca Gothram, the commander of the Fourth Davion Guards RCT.
“Very good, I will need information on the deployments across the system so I can formulate a strategy.†He said attempting to put across a sense of confidence and control to the seasoned Davion Guard commander. When she didn’t immediately move he looked at her quizzically “is there a problem Field Marshal?â€
“There is†she said handing him a folder which he opened and glanced through “this is your forces area of operations. You will coordinate with the First Federated Suns Lancers RCT to repel any invasion to this area.â€
“This is an unimportant area of operations!†He snapped looking at the pages of information “as commander I should be at a central point of defence.â€
“Your units do not warrant a prestigious place of defence†Gothram said coldly “your units are small and mobile. I need the Davion Guards and Crucis Lancers where they are.â€
“I am a member of the Sandoval ruling family I will decide where I need my units. My name grants me that right I can have your commission!†He said becoming increasingly more angry
“No†Gothram corrected handing him a second piece of paper this one addressed to the Field Marshal with the crest of the First Prince on it. “I am commander of the Fourth Davion Guards RCT, a unit of the Royal Brigade of Guards†she said putting him in his place stepping around the table. “My command here is guaranteed by the First Prince and is absolute. Your forces are here to support my operations. Your name gives you the respect of the ranks your actions have cost you my respect and those of the First Prince.â€
“This is preposterous!†Sandoval snapped deciding not to leave the matter.
“As was your attack on Royal which started this mess†Gothram said deciding to explain a fact of life to the Duke. “Instead of having your people eliminated the First Prince has chosen to use your people and allow them to fight for the Draconis March. You will try to win some honour Duke Sandoval and perhaps redeem your unit’s reputation.†She said putting the stunned Duke in his place “now you are dismissed.â€
Alex Lassenem’s quarters
Society Work Base 6 Alpha, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
24th March 3108
While it had begun as a cover story Alex and Laurel had continued coupling for the duration of their time on Babylon it was a comfort for both of them to be together on a planet controlled by the enemy. Laying behind Laurel the two spoke in hushed voices unsure if they were being recorded or not “it has been two weeks†she said not moving “and still nothing. He arrives in four days what the hell are we supposed to do?â€
“Suicide mission†he whispered back “we were sent here to be eyes, ears and executioner.†He said “they never expected us to survive. They did not expect us to need back up or complete the mission.†He explained still she didn’t move.
“You only send Solahmas on suicide missions.†She said angrily not wanting to be classed alongside the aged worthless warriors.
“Once upon a time it was that way. Perhaps with our Clan it was that way†he said Laurel was another former Hell’s Horse warrior like Alex. “But maybe the old Khan is not playing by the old rules†he suggested “we were sent undercover that is not Clan. We are using Society Mechs not the Clan way.â€
“A Mech is a Mech it is a tool it doesn’t matter who built it. We could use an Inner Sphere BattleMech but we would still be Clan warriors.†She snapped her anger boiling over.
“Calm yourself†Alex whispered rubbing her bare shoulders “I have a plan†he said “we are going to do it ourselves and we are getting out alive.†He said kissing her shoulders “they are never going to see this coming.†He promised her as their bodies moved together if anyone was listening in they may as well give them something to enjoy and any good warrior knew relieving tension was the most important thing.
- - -
The next day Alex checked out his OmniMech for a routine patrol with MechWarrior Flynn and they headed into the Babylon Wastelands an area created during the Clans battles with the Society. Liberal use of nuclear and biological weapons had turned the region into a dead zone because of this Clan rebels used the area as a place to hide and Society patrols were a regular occurrence meaning Alex’s visit wouldn’t arouse too much suspicion. Passing through the area Alex piloted his Osteon through the wastelands following the standard Society patrol routes but he had his OmniMech’s sensor system scanning in a very particular way. In return the Osteon was being hit by a specific way of scanning. Unsurprisingly neither Alex nor Flynn spotted any rebel forces but both of their Mechs had collected the data that they needed.
That night the six warriors of Alex’s unit stood at the foot of his Osteon in the base’s Mechbay discussing what they knew and what they were going to do. “This is how they will approach it is the same each time. Flynn you here†he said placing down a marker for the Septicemia “you will open the door and welcome them in. Sly you will have Helo and be on Echo duty.†He said speaking to the Cephalus pilot who nodded. “Grant, Claire you are with me at point Alpha we have the main guard positions anything coming from the front and we take them down. Laurel you have point Zulu if they have fast units you cover our backs.†he said placing down the final marker for their second Septicemia which would cover the three Osteon’s backs. “Whatever happens we ensure that Scientist General Gibson is covered from all angles and nothing happens to him without our say so.†He commanded the other nodded unsure exactly why he had taken a formal tone then they noticed as Scientist Leader Sophie O’Brien approached. As expected the Scientist immediately looked at Laurel with a disdainful look which almost brought a smile from Alex but he decided to speak up. “Scientist Leader, how can we assist you?â€
“I wanted to make you aware Scientist General Gibson has moved up his arrival schedule he will arrive on Babylon one week tomorrow.†She announced “as is planned he will have two Septs of forces as bodyguard and the WarShip Absolute Truth.†She said Alex knew that she was trying to see a reaction from any of his people but Alex gave her no satisfaction stepping forwards.
“Of course†he said “we have increased our patrols of the Wastelands and we are ready for his arrival here. Nothing will get near our defence while my two Treys will hold the bases defence.â€
“Your Sept Group Commander†she said correcting him “my Septicemia will be joining your formation.â€
“Your Septicemia?†Alex asked unaware that she was trained as a MechWarrior.
“Yes, from a past life.†She said smiling “I may be a little rusty but I will try not to let this brave unit down.â€
“We have every confidence in your ability†Laurel said standing beside Alex “and we welcome you among our ranks Scientist Leader†she said laying it on thick bowing her head slightly with respect.
“We will put on a glorious show together and put Babylon in the spotlight. Each of you will be remembered among our ranks for generations to come.†She promised each of the warriors assembled Alex smiled a false smile wondering exactly how much Sophie O’Brien expected and knew there was something off with her coming here today like this. He would watch the Scientist Leader extra closely over the next week.
Clan Mountain Wolf Command
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
27th March 3108
“This is a mistake†saKhan Toby Fetladral said angrily looking around the room and finally focusing on the young Khan in front of him. “We cannot do thisâ€
“It is already done†Loremaster Ann Metha stated looking back at the saKhan “you agreed to the path when it was chosen. It was that or we lose our identity forever.â€
“We will already lose our identity†Fetladral said looking around the room “my Khan within a couple of years our identity will be gone swallowed by the whole.†He said he had been a member of the Mountain Wolf Clan for more than forty years, since their original break from Clan Wolf, and couldn’t have ever foreseen what they were now planning especially not from the son of Phelan Kell.
“Those who do not wish to follow the Clan’s new path will be offered alternatives.†Evan Kell said carefully he knew many of the older warriors would now agree with his plan. He knew that many of the younger warriors would likely feel the same but also that many would relish the new challenge.
“I am a Wolf, I have been a Wolf since I was born and I will be a Wolf until I die†Fetladral said quietly. “I do not agree with your path Evan Kell and I do not believe that this is our path so I must challenge you to a Trial of Grievance. Others must see that there is an alternative to this path.â€
“I do not want to kill you Toby, do not do this…â€
“It is done my Khan†the old warrior said rising from his chair leaving the room. Evan Kell looked around the room as well as the Loremaster there were five other members of the Mountain Wolves present Star Admiral Maya Ch’in, the head of the navy, Star Colonel Gilford Shaw, the commander of the training sibkos, both remaining Galaxy Commanders of the Mountain Wolves and finally to the heads of the merchants and scientist Castes. All had been given an equal vote in this and the majority had chosen the same course of action only the saKhan seemed willing to challenge Evan on the course of action instead agreeing that this was the only way of preserving their culture. “Star Admiral prepare your WarShips and JumpShips for the coming operation. All of you I know this decision has been hard but I believe that this is our only course forward. We are Clan every single one of us is capable of progressing this way we have to choose our skill and determination to make things happen how we want them to.â€
An hour later on the surface of Gallery Khan Evan Kell gave saKhan Toby Fetladral the warrior’s death he desired first downing the saKhan’s Timber Wolf with the weapons from his Lycurgus then crushing the OmniMech’s cockpit when Toby Fetladral refused to surrender. To honour the fallen warrior Evan Kell ordered the Timber Wolf chassis stripped of all technology worth salvaging and left on the wind swept surface of Gallery. With nothing of value to the broken OmniMech Evan hoped that it would remain there in memory of its fallen pilot while several further lines of text were added to the Mountain Wolf’s Remembrance in Toby Fetladral’s name further honouring the man who had stood by his principles.
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April is particularly big so it's broken up a bit. First comes the parts which I've already shared in the "For the Cause" break away story in the homeworlds now presented as part of the timeline.
Society Work Base 6 Alpha
Babylon, Pentagon Worlds
Deep Periphery
1st April 3108
A week passed as in a blink of an eye and very soon Scientist General Michael Gibson was on the planet of Babylon. With news reports hailing his arrival as a great day for Babylon in a speech Gibson promised to clean up the Wastelands of the “Clan Menace†and the wastelands they had created. It made Alex Lassenem sick to his stomach listening to the Scientist General speak but perhaps at the same time he was worried about what was to come very soon Gibson’s motorcade began its tour towards the Wastelands arriving at Work Base 6 Alpha. Alex’s forces were in position “Scientist Leader O’Brien you may situate yourself wherever you wish†he said watching her Septicemia move at the rear of their formation.
“I will shadow MechWarrior Laurel†she said “you are the expert in this arena Group Commander I will follow your commands to the best of my abilities.â€
“Understood†Alex said watching as the heavily armed convoy moved towards them the lead two OmniMechs were a pair of Cephalus each carrying what looked like Battle Armour troopers, next were a pair of Osteons, three heavily armoured limousine transports and a special looking Septicemia with appeared to be transporting a large communication dish. Beyond the gates of the base Alex knew the ProtoMech and armour units of Gibson’s escort were around the base along with the other bodyguard units. Flynn stood at the entrance to the base allowing the convoy to enter as they did ten Battle Armour trooper jumped from the backs of the Caphalus.
“Oh hell Gnomes!†Sylvester said seeing the Elementals drop to the ground.
“What was that MechWarrior Sylvester?†Scientist General Sophie O’Brien asked cutting in she sounded confused at why Sylvester was annoyed at seeing the heavy Battle Armour suit. Alex immediately overruled her communication system.
“This is Star Colonel Alex Lassenem, FOR THE CAUSE!†He announced his words were a command as well as an announcement. Instantly two things happened in every cockpit the MechWarriors switched to a planned alternate frequency and executed their fire orders.
Flynn instantly fired two particle cannon blasts into the back of the strange looking Septicemia smashing through the Mech’s back armour, structure and engine shielding instantly shutting down the OmniMech.
Sylvester’s OmniMech, which was normally unarmed, opened fire with its retrofitted heavy medium lasers targeting the Gnomes. Unfortunately while the lasers would be enough to kill regular elementals they were not enough to destroy individual Gnomes.
Behind Alex’s position he heard Sophie O’Brien scream in anger and possibly pain but did not have time to turn around to see what happened instead he Grant and Claire all unloaded their weapons on the rear limousine each of the advanced tactical missiles were armoured with improved inferno warheads spraying the area with fire intending on destroying the vehicles instantly.
Immediately they noticed that the fire was doing little to no damage “Fire resistant armour where the hell did they get that?†Concentrated fire, kill them with other munitions!†Alex snapped he had no idea where the Society had developed fire resistant armour but it was a problem they didn’t need. Suddenly Sylvester’s Cephalus charged past him the OmniMech fully on fire charged forwards straight into one of the limousines causing both to explode in a fireball Sylvester didn’t eject from the OmniMech. Alex looked at his rear area and saw that Laurel was still standing but O’Brien’s Mech was down its back ripped open by weapons fire its cockpit face down into the ground. “Laurel take out the Gnomes keep your distance they seem to have inferno rounds!†He warned her under the combined firepower of the three Osteon’s the second and third transport exploded into fireballs of their own but now the Society loyal Osteons were turning their weapons on Alex and the other two Osteons causing near instant heavy damage as they concentrated fire. As weapons fire was exchanged between the assault OmniMechs suddenly the air around them turned into fire and the ground exploded around them. “What the hell?†Alex wondered even as he tried to counter the other Osteons he saw the entrance of the base along with MechWarrior Flynn’s Septicemia explode.
“Absolute Truth†Laurel struggled Alex looked at her OmniMech and saw it had taken a direct hit to the cockpit. He thought about her words and realized what she had meant the WarShip Absolute Truth above them was targeting their position with its weapons array turning the entire area into a live fire zone following Scientist General Gibson’s death.
“We need to move!†He said seeing Claire’s OmniMech fall to Society fire “Laurel, Grant, can you keep up Quiaff?â€
“Aff, it looks worse than it is.†She confirmed
“Neg, knee actuator is gone†Grant replied as more naval fire landed in the area “go I’ll keep them at bay.†He called out continuing to fire at the Society ground forces in minutes Alex’s unit had been cut by two thirds with his own Mech and Laurel’s both damaged. Even as the Absolute Truth continued to bombard the region the two OmniMech’s ran through the fire heading into the nearby Wastelands naval weapons fire continued to fall on the base and near their position.
“How can they be tracking us?†Laurel wondered he could hear weakness in her voice he didn’t know how badly she was injured as they continued forwards. If the WarShip above continued to bombard the area they would eventually be caught by a barrage and killed. At the furthest reaches of his sensors Alex could see Society ProtoMech units loitering just outside the bombard zone.
“Incoming OmniMechs, Bravo Sierra, shut down your Nova CEWS.†A voice suddenly said breaking into their communications using the code Alex knew.
“We are not sharing data†Alex said not understanding them they didn’t use the C3 element of the Nova CEWS but the combined ECM and improved sensors still made it a potent tool.
“Neg, the Society can track it†the voice said as more naval weapons hit the ground around them both he and Laurel shutdown their systems moving into the Wastelands. Unfortunately even as Laurel shutdown the Nova CEWS her OmniMech staggered forward, tripped and then like someone who had consumed too much alcohol faltered and fell on its face.
I might be able to update a second time today depends if I'm able to finish it.
Clan Base
Wastelands, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
2nd April 3108
MechWarrior Laurel slowly woke up on looking around the room seeing Star Colonel Alex Lassenem standing near the door the man who had led them undercover now fully cleaned up the beard hat had been growing now cut to a distinguished goatee. “Welcome back to the land of the living†he said.
“Thank you, sir†she said “did anyone else make it out?â€
“Neg†he replied not moving from the door.
“Damn†she said trying to get up from the bed but feeling weak “what have the doctors said?†She asked
“You’ll recover†he said “they recovered your Mech as well.â€
“Burn it†she said looking away from him “I don’t want to think about anything about my time with them.†She said Alex looked unhappy by her reaction but before he could speak a lower castemen appeared at the door.
“Star Colonel, you are needed†he said Alex nodded turning back to Laurel he nodded again before leaving the room. Alex moved through the facility to the command bunker and saw a hologram of Scientist General Michael Gibson.
“How is that son-of-a-bitch still alive?†Alex swore as he approached the hologram.
“He is not alive†the tech who sat in front of the rebel commander said Alex didn’t look off the hologram instead he waited for the tech to speak again. “It’s a recording form four years ago on Circe when someone took a pot shot at him and failed. They’ve put a filter on it and given him a bit of colour but it’s the same recording from Circe I guarantee it.†He said Alex overlooked the man’s contractions instead looking at the image.
“With them controlling the world media how are we ever going to break them†the base commander Beatrice said looking at Alex who didn’t look amused. “Sir, they will play this message over and over again until a new Scientist General is in place and then Gibson will quietly retire never to be seen again.â€
“Then we make them see the truth, there’s no way he survived our assault.†He said as Gibson was replaced by a live feed of Scientist Leader Sophie O’Brien unlike Gibson she looked like she’d been through a battle the side of her face was badly bruised and it looked like her left arm was in a sling. “Her too†he said angrily “we need to finish this lie†he said looking at the image not listening to the Scientist’s words instead formulating a plan. “We take the broadcasting station and we upload my gun camera footage†he said “we show them Gibson’s death and the orbital bombardment that followed.â€
“A suicide mission†Beatrice said looking at the Star Colonel she didn’t need to lose people to a fools mission.
“I will lead a small team†Alex Lassenem said
“Neg I will†Laurel announced she stood at the door Alex looked at her she could barely stand let alone fight. “I will lead the team and get the job done Star Colonel.â€
“You can barely stand MechWarrior†he said looking away from her he hated to see her in this condition as she moved into the room.
“I’ll take stimulants to make it through†she said grabbing his arm as she got close he remembered the last time they were this close when they had shared his bed at the Society Base. “I can do this.â€
“It is a suicide mission†Alex said looking at her he could feel her leaning on his body for support “to go on this mission you would have to take so many stimulants that it would kill you.â€
“I’m dead already†Laurel said Alex realized that Laurel knew “I entered the Wastelands with a breached cockpit and a breached coolant suit.†She said “I absorbed enough radiation to kill ten men. It will come fast, it will be painful and it will not be honourable. I want to make a difference Alex.†She said he could see it in her eyes the pleading the desire to make a difference.
“Aff†he agreed “you will lead the assault team. Commander she will need two squads of volunteers and a Nighthawk suit arrange it.†He commanded Base Commander Beatrice nodded.
“We have a Turkina and a Timber Wolf for your use during the assault†she said offering him two front-line Clan OmniMechs to use against the Society.
“Neg, I will keep the Osteon. Paint it in our colours and have the Nova CEWS removed and give it an ECM system instead.†He commanded he didn’t exactly know why he wanted to keep the Osteon most Clan warriors would dislike his use of a Society Mech seeing it as unclanlike but it seemed to make sense he wasn’t exactly a conventional Clan Warrior any more. “We hit them tomorrow†he said making the choice for the assault he was Bloodnamed and a Star Colonel this was now his mission. “You get some rest†he said to Laurel leaning in and kissing her on the cheek he knew the other clansmen would look down on his attachment to her as well but he didn’t care she needed all the support she could get. He turned back around and saw Scientist General Gibson’s image was once again displayed and took a step towards it “we’re going to shed some light on you and your friends.â€
Clan assault, Broadcast Centre
Babylon City, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Dee Periphery
3rd April 3108
The ten Nighthawks were crammed into the cargo hold of the armour transport waiting for the command to move out the driver turned in his seat “lock your suits no need for you to get injured in this†he commanded. Laurel didn’t need to check her suit even after taking enough stimulants to keep an Elemental standing the legs being locked were one of the few things keeping her standing. She knew beyond the infantry transport BattleMechs from the Clan and from the Society battled to control this part of the city of Babylon out there Star Colonel Alex Lassenem was leading this assault personally giving them the gap they needed for the assault on the Broadcast centre Laurel remembered what the tech had said.
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“The way the Society has set up communications on Babylon and beyond if we overrun their broadcast centre and get out program into their systems we will control their HPG. Every system across the Homeworlds will hear our message†he had announced confidently.
“What if the Absolute Truth opens up on the city? They will kill hundreds of thousands in minutes!†Commander Beatrice had suggested
“A win either way for us then†Star Colonel Alex Lassenem had said coldly eyes from across the room had turned on him and Laurel had remembered seeing an edge to the man she had not seen before. “If the Absolute Truth fires on the capital city and lays down a suppression bombardment we prove the Society care nothing for the people the news of Scientist General Gibson’s death will still get out but slower†he had suggested “if they fail to fire then we control their HPG even briefly and the word of Gibson’s death spreads quickly and the fires rebellion will flutter on a dozen worlds.â€
“Is the price worth it†Laurel had wondered out loud.
“Victory is worth it†he had said shocking her “I do not want to witness first hand the Absolute Truth’s bombardment again but I do want to see the Society pay for all the deaths they have caused. I want to hurt them; I want to hurt them again and again.†She had remembered the look in his eyes, the anger, and the determination to get the job done whatever the cost she wasn’t afraid to admit it had actually scared her.
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“We’re a go!†The driver had shouted suddenly they felt the armoured transport shoot forward as the driver gunned the throttle and accelerated the vehicle forward. From her position half way across the cargo bay Laurel could feel the vehicle continue to accelerate she knew the plan and wasn’t looking forwards to it. The armoured transport continued forward its weapons blazing targeting enemy units as it charged across the battlefield passing enemy units and finally slamming through the blast resistant windows. Deep inside the hull of the vehicles the troopers who had locked their suits remained ridged inside unfortunately one of the suits clamps failed and the trooper flew across the crago slamming into other troopers and finally into the cargo bay bulkhead his health monitor immediately showing he was dead.
“GO! GO! GO!†Someone was shouting as the doors burst open the Nighthawks charged forwards out into the foyer of the broadcast centre. The vehicle driver was dead but amazingly the gunner was still alive and the vehicles weapons continued to fire suppressing the defenders. “We are going up first team go!†Two Nighthawk troopers stepped out of the line and threw their explosive charges onto the roof a two second delay blew the open the roof panels. Go!†The troopers collectively lit their jump jets jumping up onto the next level. “First team you hold this level next team charges point two.†He called out as the first two troops aimed their weapons at entry points two more troopers selected another area of the roof and placed their chargers blowing more holes in the roof. Laurel and the remaining six troopers jumped up again onto the next level. As they jumped a series of weapon hits struck the building blowing open the side of the building.
“I hope that was accidental†Laurel said out loud hoping that it wasn’t an indication that the Society had turned their guns on the building or the Absolute Truth had begun a bombardment.
“We don’t stop Sicknote!†The squad leader said “next team blow open the roof we’re going up! First team if you can disengage join us up here!†He commanded glancing behind them down the hole Laurel could see there was still heavy fighting on the level behind them as the next roof section was blown open further explosions hit the building from outside. “Go! Go! Go!†The commander shouted just as a weapon’s barrage ripped through the helmet section of his suit spraying the area in blood as the man was killed instantly. As the troopers jumped up onto the next level Laurel could sense hesitation in them as defenders on this level opened fire on them.
“You know your mission!†She shouted at them pulling a grenade from her belt throwing it with all her remaining strength at the defenders several others did the same. “We don’t stop!â€
“FOR THE CAUSE!†The remaining five troopers shouted in unison firing their weapons with Laurel and throwing more grenades. Laurel leveled her Gauss SMG at the defenders and hammered a burst into the chest of one of the defenders killing him instantly. Even as they fired another trooper blew a hole in the roof clearing the way for them to move up.
“We have this level get the job done!†One of them said to Laurel as further explosions ripped through the broadcast centre. Redundantly she nodded something the other trooper would never see instead of saying anything she and two others jumped up onto the next level finding that weapons fire from outside had already ripped the level open they immediately jumped up through the smashed floor onto the next level.
“Blow it†Laurel ordered the remaining two troopers set their charges as Laurel unloaded shot after shot at anyone who moved on the level an explosion ripped open the roof above them and she didn’t wait Laurel instantly jumped her suit up onto the next level. She checked either side seeing the workers on this level running from the explosion and from the sight of her arrival. She checked her sensors this was the level she needed to be on glancing at the Gauss SMG she saw she was down to fifteen shots moving through the level towards the broadcast room suddenly what sounded like a support machine gun ripped through the office around her destroying the furniture. Using all her energy she dived to the side avoiding the fire rolling backwards turning towards the target she aimed her weapon and pulled the trigger a burst ripped into the room. Twelve shots left. She thought throwing caution to the wind she ran forwards as fast as she could charging into the room even as the defenders support machine gun spun up she could feel the bullets rip into her power armour suit pain riddling her body she tried to ignore the pain as she shot the remaining two defenders emptying her clip into them.
Laurel paused for a moment looking around the room seeing the two dead troopers she looked at the SMG and saw the indicator showed empty she threw the weapon down and staggered past the bodies and the defenders turret pushing past did as the tech had said entering the evidence card into the computer system. As expected the system instantly accepted the card and began to read it Laurel slid down the wall beside the transmission gear barely conscious as Sophie O’Brien entered the room her left arm still in the sling they had seen on the Tri-Vid she stopped seeing the dead defenders and Laurel’s suit against the wall she stalked over towards Laurel ripping the damaged Nighthawk helmet from the suit.
“You!†She nearly screamed seeing Laurel’s barely conscious bloodied face “do you have any idea what you have done?†She asked continuing to shout grabbing Laurel’s hair with her good arm. Unfortunately for her she didn’t see Laurel’s other arm raise holding a slug-thrower pistol.
“Yeah, I've screwed you life *****†Laurel said pulling the trigger immediately a burst of three shots ripped through Sophie’s chest and head killing Sophie O'Brien covering the room in yet more blood. Laurel reached for the suit’s helmet which Sophie had dropped when the bullets had hit her body. “Alex it’s done†she struggled out not knowing if the communication system on the suit still worked or if Alex Lassenem was still alive, it didn't matter, even if he had fallen their message was out their mission was done and with that Laurel passed out for the last time.
Side note the contractions in this update are intentional. The Nighthawk troopers are freeborns and Laurel didn't care any more
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And the rest...
Nova Cat Command
Farstar, Nova Cat Occupation Zone
Perihery
5th April 3108
“Welcome to Farstar†saKhan Katrine Devalis said welcoming the Sea Fox saKhan Blake Hawker to the Nova Cat planet.
“Thank you saKhan†he said “it feels nice to feel real gravity under my feet.†Normally he travelled on the Titanic, the Sea Fox ArcShip assigned to the Bloodscent Khanate, which was currently in orbit over Farstar ferrying down supplies to the Nova Cat’s ground base.
“I could make that a more permanent arrangement for you saKhan Hawker. I am ready to exchange one star system and all the resources in that system to Clan Sea Fox. In exchange I want…â€
“Weapons†Hawker said looking at the Nova Cat saKhan “I know what you want saKhan Devalis you want to continue to hurt the Draconis Combine to fight until your candle burns out. If I did not know you are a Nova Cat I would have sworn there was Falcon or Jaguar blood in you.â€
“Are you trying to insult me Blake?†She asked jokingly.
“Neg, just wishing to see how much it takes†he replied “the problem I foresee, Katrine, is how far you are willing to go? Your main goal appears to be how far you can push the Combine before the Dragon bites back.â€
“They have been the subject to our aggression.†She admitted she was a Clan warrior to exercise some aggression was to be expected.
“Aff, and now you offer me a world within their grasp when I could easily withdraw into Jarnfolk space and sit comfortably.â€
“Until the locals decide they’ve had enough of you.†She said seeing his surprise “come now you cannot be surprised that we know that the Jarnfolk are getting a little annoyed at your presence there. Something about trying to build weapons of mass destruction in their space†she said teasing the Nova Cats had heard that while the Jarnfolk were happy to help build JumpShips, DropShips, vehicles, fighters and small arms they had drawn a line at upgrading the facilities in their territory to build new WarShips which could be used against ground installations. “You do know you could build such facilities here in the system that we are willing to pass to you.â€
“So you would have access to them?â€
“My people could provide you with support. I have a yardship on its way to these systems as we speak courtesy of a successful Trial of Possession against the Bears. It could be instrumental in helping you construct such facilities and as a result we would like access to them aff.â€
“But in Jarnfolk space we already have JumpShip yards to build on. All we have to do is control the population.â€
“Which your Bloodscent does not have the firepower or the will to do†Devalis said quietly.
“Why? Your Nova Cats have extensive facilities in their Nova Cat’s Den. My Clan have only seen a fraction of the facilities you have why build more here?â€
“My vessels in the OZ need constant maintenance after operations.†She explained Hawker knew there was more to it but also knew that his Clan could use access to new facilities. The Jarnfolk situation, and possibly the pacification that was required there, was one the Khan needed to authorize for now perhaps he could use the Nova Cat’s new generosity.
“I agree but there is a string attached.â€
“Which is†Katrine asked dryly she was becoming tired of the Fox’s delays.
“We select the world that you trade to us, and you do not attack the Draconis Combine near that world. We are not interested in becoming caught in the crossfire between your Clan and them.â€
“Agreeable†Katrine admitted “I was considering Falakuma†she suggested handing him an information pad “it has a small population and plenty of natural resources both on the planet itself and in the asteroids in the system.†She said as Hawker began looking over the information “it is also off my current path of aggression against the Draconis Combine.â€
“I will look over this data and get back to you in six hours.†He promised her before leaving their command room. Within that time saKhan Hawker had replied to Katrine’s proposal and agreed for the Sea Foxes to take possession of Falakuma and provide her Nova Cats with the supplies that they needed. saKhan Hawker did note that the Sea Foxes were not yet committed to constructing a repair yard in her occupation zone but said that he would bring it up when he spoke with the other Khanate leaders.
Hell’s Horses offensive
Cumbres, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
10th April 3108
Clan Hell’s Horses continue their assaults against the Lyran Commonwealth entering both the Cumbres and Dukambie, two systems lacking Lyran naval forces. In the Cumbres system the Fifth Donegal Guards RCT face off against three Elite clusters of Clan Hell’s Horses Stampede of Steel Galaxy. The regular rated RCT has little chance against the Hell’s Horses as they overwhelm and the Donegal Guards crushing the unit over the course of two weeks. Lyran attempts to resupply their ground forces are frustrated by the Tracy, an Essex-class Destroyer, and the Predator, a Lola III-class Destroyer. In the Dukambie system the Hell’s Horses the Formidable, an Arbitration-class Battleship, recently gained in a Trial of Possession in the Tukayyid system. To ensure that the Lyrans do not attempt to assault the ship with their Indefatigable-class Battleships the Hell’s Horses escort the Formidable with both of their Marathon-class Battle-cruisers. With such firepower present the system quickly falls to the Hell’s Horses as the Clan shows it has the firepower to oppose the Lyrans.
Pirate Point, Clarkston (Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft)
Helen, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Prefecture, Draconis Combine
16th April 3108
There were two flashes of light as the Invader-class JumpShip and the Bug Eye-class Clarkston entered the Helen system at a rarely used pirate point. The massive Draconis Combine WarShip in the system would have detected their arrival but was far out of range and unable to cause them trouble for now. Hopefully at the range they were currently at the enemy WarShip’s sensors would detect only the Invaders and the DropShips it was now detaching. “Could we have been closer?†Captain Olivier Martinez wondered looking at his screens in the compact bridge section. The Bug Eye was smaller than most DropShips meaning everything was different on the ship which included the bridge. Unlike most interstellar craft the Bug Eye’s command section was in the front of the ship instead of buried under several decks and heavy armour and instead of having dozens of consoles the Bug Eye bridge had four command, helm/navigation, sensors/communication and weapons. “Mirror the DropShips path, as far as the Dracs are concerned we are one of those ships just slipping into the traffic of the belt.†He said the Bug Eye accelerated alongside the three DropShips heading into the asteroids.
“They are going to come looking for us†his executive officer Ben Sawyer said
“Which is why all three of the DropShips are civilian ships if the Combine comes looking all they will find is four new DropShips. While our sensors will eat up all the data they can on them.â€
“And then the Combine will rumble us and we’ll be in lots of trouble†Sawyer said looking over towards his CO “this is a crazy plan, sir.â€
“That’s why we get paid the big bucks†Martinez replied “now put us on course for the asteroids nothing crazy just enough to get us there today we’re slow boating it until we need to show our hand.†He commanded as the small six thousand ton WarShip moved towards the system’s belt.
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A week later the Clarkston was nearing the edge of the asteroid belt they had taken the longest possible route through the belt following known civilian shipping lanes and they had run continuous scans of the system and the Akagi as expected the WarShip had detected their powerful sensor array and come to investigate what was going on giving them an even better view. The ship was huge coming in at more than one and a half million tons on vessel it’s huge dominating ‘alligator’ head forward section marking its similarities to the Columbia and Mercury classes in operation by the Federated Suns. Along each of the ships flanks were massive fighter bays while the rear was dominated by four gigantic engine pods each capable of propelling the vessel at mindboggling speeds. The Clarkston had not witnessed the ship accelerate heavily, or use any weapons so all of their data was based off of the long range scans they had made of the ship as it approached the asteroid belt. “Turn us around take us back into the belt we don’t need to be caught in open space.â€
“You think they suspect something?†Sawyer asked from the helm console in front of Martinez.
“I wouldn’t put it past them to stop every DropShip coming out of the belt and to land troops on the inhabited asteroids.†Martinez muttered as aerospace fighters deployed from under the nose of the massive ship. “We don’t need that attention pull us back we’ll power down in the belt if we need to just let them drift by.†He said as the small Bug Eye turned four of the aerospace fighters approached one of the inhabited asteroids. Before hitting the asteroid they quickly converted into BattleMechs making their landings.
“******* LAMs! She’s carrying ******* LAMs!†Emily Nelson at the sensor station exclaimed suddenly “a monster like that could carry two or three regiments of those things! They’ve turned her into a Super Kyushu!†She said naming the Draconis Combine frigate which most often carried the Combine’s LAM Regiments. While it was now common for all of the Succession States to use Land Air Mechs the Draconis Combine fielded them in entire regiments basing them off their WarShips for rapid assignments.
“CALM THE HELL DOWN!" Martinez shouted "Get your head in the game or we're dead. Now take us deeper into the asteroids!†Martinez ordered as the Clarkston continued to fall back “bring our guns online but keep them under wraps†he said as his sensor screen registered an explosion on the asteroid where the LAMs had landed while other Combine units were approaching the shipping lanes. The Clarkston’s weapons ports were hidden under blow away panels to hide her identity to a casual observer.
“More Land Air Mechs coming towards us†Nelson reported looking at her screens.
“The game’s up weapons fire as they approach, helm get us clear of the belt as quickly as you can and bring the jump drive online we’re getting the hell out of here.â€
“It took us four days to get through the belt even at speed it’s going to take time!†Sawyer complained he didn’t mention that at the increased speed the Clarkston would be in far more danger of an accident.
“Forward guns target anything helm can’t avoid rear guns keep them off us.†Martinez ordered but he didn’t need to already Neil Tyson and Amelie Durand at the weapons stations had began to fire the Clarkston’s array of medium lasers. Since the vessel’s acquisition by the Federated Suns the Clarkston had been fitted with thirteen extended-range medium lasers and four anti-missile systems which replaced the vessel’s original armament. Now the four rear medium lasers were being fired nearly constantly blasting through the forward armour of the lead Wasp LAM coring the craft forcing it to crash into an asteroid, as the LAM hit the rock it disintegrated into a thousand pieces. Missiles from all angles approached the Clarkston but its anti-missile systems and Lamellor armour survived the hits the ship was taking.
Suddenly space around them turned to fire as the Akagi itself began to fire on the asteroid belt with an array of naval autocannons. “Well we can add those to the list of capabilities!†Sawyer said rolling the Clarkston under a huge asteroid which moments later was shattered by naval autocannon fire. “Sir, we can’t survive this kind of punishment†he said as more LAMs closed in.
“We don’t need to for long†Martinez said looking at his screens at the speed they were going they would enter a large open area of space within minutes. “Once clear of the belt I need you to stop manoeuvring and pour on the speed.â€
“We’ll be sitting ducks†Sawyer stated
“Not if the other DropShips have done their jobs.†Martinez said keying the comm. switch “Roman Candle, Roman Candle, Roman Candle!†He repeated on an open frequency. The three civilian DropShips were not exactly civilian craft instead each had been fitted with banks of capital missiles. While the Clarkston had been taking its time through the asteroid belt the three DropShips had gone to ‘ground’ landing on some of the larger asteroids powering down their systems to run as cold as they could. Now all three ships opened their launch bay doors and like a Roman Candle of ancient Terra each opened fire with their weapons filling the belt with capital missiles. Some were targeted on the LAM craft in the belt while others were targeted on the Akagi as they approached the WarShip its anti-missile systems engaged them shooting several down. DropShips attached to the WarShip moved to intercept further missiles one or more of them was loaded with a special surprise and the Clarkston’s crew was rewarded by witnessing a thermo nuclear explosion from a Santa Ana-class nuclear warhead. “Eat that you big bastard!†Martinez cursed as the Clarkston cleared the asteroid belt another LAM exploded behind them struck by a capital missile fired from one of the DropShips “blow up come on blow up!†Martinez cursed looking at the sensor screen unfortunately the big WarShip rolled through the nuclear fire its armour ablaze for a moment in the vacuum of space and then darkened again as the flames were snuffed out. The DropShips had done their job intercepting the missiles before they could get near the WarShip saving the Akagi from the worse of the damage. “Cut engines, begin jump prep†Martinez commanded breaking away from the sensor screen “weapons keep an eye out for any remaining LAMs†he said but suddenly no-one was interested in them now the attention of the LAM units and of the Akagi’s gunners was on the three DropShips, the crews had no chance of escape their JumpShip had left the system days before and Clarkston couldn’t carry them. Naval autocannon, missile and gauss rifle poured through the asteroids smashing the DropShips one by one. Their crews continued to fire their capital missiles up until the last DropShip was eliminated by a group of Land Air Mechs that had converted to BattleMech mode and walked up to the DropShip kicking in its cargo bay doors so the Mech’s could fire inside the craft eliminating the crew and the DropShip’s weapons.
“Let us take a moment to remember our fallen comrades and give thanks for their sacrifice†Amelie Durand said glancing down for a moment none of the crew disagreed. If the Clarkston had remained undetected the DropShips would not have been needed but each of their crews had known that the Bug Eye had to escape the system so when the time came they had done their duty.
“Now get us the hell out of here†Martinez said after the silence had passed he looked at his screens again looking at the sensor image of the DCS Akagi. “I’ll see you again I promise.†He said knowing that the Clarkston was not finished with the Draconis Combine vessel.
Oriente Counter-attack
Glasgow Commonality, Capellan Confederation
24th April 3108
While Oriente had been invaded and threatened the District continues its plans for a counter strike using the new BattleMechs, Armour and fighters gained from the Federated Suns. With the Fourth Fusiliers of Oriente and Alpha Regiment of the Wolf’s Dragoons in support the newly risen/reinforced Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Militia Regiments of Oriente invade Old Kentucky, Wazan, Phact and Corey with the Sixth Capellan Defence Force and the Fifth Liao Lancers Regiments destroyed on Old Kentucky by the Wolf’s Dragoons with the Athena, a Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser, in support providing air superiority. With no capital assets of their own and their ground forces picked to pieces by the Dragoons the Capellans have no choice but to surrender to the Oriente and mercenary forces.
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I'll answer questions about things that has happened and things that are going on but future storylines I'm going to give a familiar answer... I have a plan
Short update mostly setting up more things to come
Combat Drop, Nova Cat Watch
Tamar, Tamar City
Clan Occupation Zones
2nd May 3108
The sky over Tamar City was full of Nova Cat DropShips and aerospace fighters as the Clan’s four Watch Clusters made combat drops in and around the city. In every radio in the area Khan Canin Rosse voice filled the airwaves “Citizens of Tamar City this is Khan Canin Rosse Clan Nova Cat claim possession of this city. Continue to attend you work places and do not cause any civil disturbances and this occupation will go smoothly. Clan Coyote forces you have one hour to vacate Tamar City otherwise your forces will be subject to Trials of Possession. Star Colonel Adam Jericho Clan Nova Cat declares a Trial of Possessions for the entire production run at Construction Facility Seven and ProtoMech factory Alpha. Your forces will meet mine at the plains south of Tamar City in two hours. Khan Canin Rosse out.†He said as the Khan’s personal Dragon Cat OmniMech landed near the administration centre for Tamar City.
As expected the Coyotes put up no resistance to the Nova Cat occupation of the city leaving it to Clan Nova Cat for them to use it as their base of operations. Two hours after the initial Clan Nova Cat landings token Coyote forces met with the Nova Cats outside Tamar City with both forces surrendering after very short fights. The Nova Cats took the surviving warriors as abtakha while also taking control over both factories immediately raising a new cluster from the newly taken Coyotes, bondsmen and recently graduated warriors who had travelled with the Nova Cat forces.
Firefight, Omicron Solahma Garrison
South Lapiz, Blue Hole
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
19th May 3108
With Clan Nova Cat beginning operations against the Society in the Coyote Occupation Zone Clan Jade Falcon make a move against their own cell of Society collaborators. What starts as a surgical strike against the command of the Omicron Galaxy Solahma Cluster command quickly extends to a battle between the entire unit and the Fourth Falcon Jaegers Cluster which was also based on Blue Hole. In a six hour battle the Solahma Cluster and its entire support structure are wiped out by the Fourth Jaegers who leave no survivors. Across the Jade Falcon occupation zone dozens of civilians including many merchants and scientists are eliminated by Jade Falcon military units. Other Clan and Inner Sphere Intelligence Agencies note that several of those killed by the Jade Falcons are known for their rebellious attitudes towards Clan rule but lack known Society connections.
Terrorist Activity
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd May 3108
A DropShip falls from the sky obliterating the planetary spaceport at Promise Point on Izar killing nearly three thousand civilians and causing billions of Kroner of damage. A major trade centre on Carnwath is incinerated by a fuel-air explosion. And a nuclear power plant on Zebeneschamali explodes with the core melting down causing massive casualties, radiation and damage to one of the planet’s major cities. Each of these attacks occur within hours of each other and each is followed by substantial pirate raids against planetary militia forces attempting to help those who are affected causing yet more damage, confusion and loss of life.
Planetary battlefield
Deneb Kiatos, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
25th May 3108
The star system of Deneb Kiatos was filled with fire as the Fourth Deneb Light Cavalry RCT returned to their homeworld for the first time in years. In orbit the Tatsumaki II-class Destroyers DCS Shinanon and DCS Tsutuji faced a losing battle against the First Prince II-class Battleship FSS Hanse Davion II and the Congress II-class Frigate FSS Hotspur. While in the atmosphere aerospace fighters battled for control over the skies closer to the DropShips Major Maksims Posadskovs turned his fighter in tight turns maintaining a close patrol of the regiment’s transports as they came in for a landing.
“Incoming conventional aerospace fighters and VTOL craft from the north First Battalion turn to repel them.†Colonel Lisa Weir commanded “Second Battalion you get first crack on the ground don’t squander it give us a beachhead.â€
“Aye Colonel†Posadskovs replied turning his fighter towards the ground switching frequencies as he did “alright boys and girls last one on the deck buys the beers†he transmitted. As his aircraft closed on the ground Posadskovs flicked a switch on the side of his cockpit turning his Phoenix Hawk LAM from its aerospace fighter mode into an AirMech with the BattleMech’s leg’s extending from the fighter’s body and the fighter’s body beginning to show BattleMech characteristics. Moments later Posadskovs flicked another switch and his AirMech completed its conversion to a normal BattleMech coming in for a landing on twin jets of fire.
On the ground Major Posadskovs scanned the area as other Land-Air Mechs of his battalion came in for their landings around the area clearing the way for the DropShips. On his right he saw a glint of light as a Saracen hovertank flashed into view targeting his position with a flight of long range missiles. Posadskovs didn’t wait returning fire immediately with his LAM’s Extended-Range Large Laser the red beam of light and energy cut through the air linking the LAM and the hovercraft for a moment. The laser burned through the LAM’s armour finding a weak point causing a fiery explosion as the laser punctured the ammunition bay of the hovercraft marking the first ground-bound enemy destroyed by the Deneb Light Cavalry since returning to their homeworld.
Following their landings the AFFS unit quickly moved across the planet as familiar to them as any other in the Inner Sphere. With the native population quickly turning against the occupying forces the Second Dieron Regulars Regiment and the Nineteenth Ghost Regiment are unable to stop the elite Light Cavalry and are quickly destroyed by the AFFS units. With cheering crowds marking every street across the planet Deneb Kiatosis an important publicity victory for the Federated Suns making a far greater mark than any tactical victory which is important as Draconis Combine Mustered Society units continue to raid along the Draconis March border capturing Mata and Romam while weakening the defences on Ronel and Tybalt.
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Nice series of updates, couple of things:-
You call Canin Rose, Santin West in this part - In every radio in the area Khan Santin West’s voice filled the airwaves “Citizens of Tamar City this is Khan Canin Rosse Clan Nova Cat claim possession of this city.
And the Deneb Light Cavalry hail from Deneb Kaitos, but you have it as Deneb Kiatros, typo?
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Khan screw up no idea how that happened
Badly read map for kiatros
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Shadow_Wraith/Snakespinner - the Isle of Skye problems will go on for a while
Wrangler - I think I mentioned in the PM Tamar is only temporarily a Nova Cat holding only until the Society are gone then it goes back to the Coyotes. The trials were for show and 'honour' little more
Archon’s Palace
Arcturus, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd June 3108
“What do you mean the Hyper Pulse Generator on Gallery and three other worlds have gone dark?†Archon Jessica Steiner demanded of her communication’s advisor Nina Gold who suddenly looked far paler than she had when she entered.
“Khan Evan Kell informed us of the failure in the early hours of this morning. Sabotage he said†Gold replied after a moment to compose her thoughts “he said that Gallery will maintain communication with the Commonwealth via the HPG on board the Werewolf until the planetary centre is repaired. He has offered to send WarShips or JumpShips equipped with HPGs to other systems to assist in our communications nation wide.â€
“And as my communications advisor do you believe that this is an acceptable course of action for your Archon?†Steiner demanded rising from her throne chair looking at her other advisors suddenly taking her wrath off Gold. “In the last month there have been terrorist strikes in Skye and now four worlds are cut off from the rest of the Commonwealth and my only solution is to lean on Clan Mountain Wolf for support.†She said angrily the Clansmen had barely communicated with the Commonwealth since her failed bid to bring them into the LCAF. “Is there another option?†She demanded looking at General of Armies Aiden Gray.
“Yes, we leave them dark and pass messages by courier JumpShip.†He said going with the simple option “it keeps Kell on the outside and buys you time to get communications back online. If it is a longer repair then we bring Kell in and his Wolves get a little piece of the overall prize.â€
“Seems prudent†Steiner admitted “what about these terrorist attacks where are we on finding and eliminating them.â€
“Our biggest problem currently is we are not sure if there is a ‘them’ to target†Mathias Otto, the head of Intelligence, explained “each of the attacks we are certain originated out with the Lyran Commonwealth but one was funded off of Orestes in the Rasalhague Dominion, another off Kessel in the Combine and the third from within the Star League Protectorate. We do not believe these three nations are working together against us only that perhaps someone behind the scenes is pulling their strings.â€
“And this someone?â€
“Still unknown†Otto replied
“And Skye is cooperating?â€
“Duchess Aten is cooperating fully with our investigations. She even provided us with additional supplies†Otto answered “it seems that Skye and Arcturus interests are travelling in the same direction.â€
“That makes a nice change†Jessica Steiner said rubbing her hand against the side of her head she felt a migraine coming on she had been up for sixteen hours monitoring reports of Hell’s Horses raids against Lyndon, Kelenfold and Surcin. The Clan had not attempted to take any of the worlds instead it had just caused a little trouble then left it was like the Horses were toying with her nation and she felt like biting at someone.
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Across the Commonwealth at the same time Khan Evan Kell had also had a long day in what was probably going to be his last days as Khan of the Mountain Wolf Clan in fact it would be the last days of the Clan in its entirety. Walking across the Mechbay on Gallery towards his Lycurgus Assault OmniMech he already knew that two Clusters of his Clan would not be accompanying his Clan on their new exodus and he knew that many others would likely die in the coming weeks are they attempted to reintegrate into Clan Wolf. But there was no going back now they had already burned their bridges with the Lyran Commonwealth by attacking for Hyper Pulse Generators in the Halfway Province. Once communication was restored the truth would come out that it wasn’t terrorists that caused the damage but member of Clan Mountain Wolf’s Touman.
It had been a hard decision to abandon the plan that his parents and Ulric Kerensky had come up with to split Clan Wolf sundering the Clan’s strength when the Clan invasion needed it the most. His Mountain Wolves could not survive on their own with the world of Gallery the only one to sustain them and no additional money and supplies coming in from the banks and the mercenary trade of Arc Royal there his Clan were slowly dying. There was only so much he could trade to the Sea Foxes, the most recent item being the Arc Royal his Clan’s Coventry-class Corvette, in exchange he had gained additional DropShips so nothing was left on Gallery and an additional supply of HarJel as a ransom for the Wolf Clan not the grand prize he had hoped to bring the Wolves but a start.
Climbing into the Lycurgus’ cockpit he activated his communication system and gave his final order as Khan to leave Gallery for the last time. Their next stop would be the Clan Wolf capitol world of Sheridan deep inside the Wolf Empire.
Capellan Command
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
17th June 3108
“Why are they still able to resist us?†Dao-Shen Liao asked his wife and military leader Erin Liao. As they stood looking at the map of conflict in the centre of the room displayed on the large computer screen was the Oriente/Confederation border with five worlds burning showing conflict. Two caused by the Confederation and three caused by Oriente and Regulus three further worlds on the Regulus/Canopus border burned as the Magistracy of Canopus attempted to assist the Capellans.
“Davion and Regulus are supporting them and they gain additional resources through the Star League Defence Force despite their claims to not be against us Kittery is not following the direction of Terra.†Erin explained “We’ve lost the fight on Las Halles and Galloway VI there is no way back for our troops I have already ordered our people back into friendly systems.†She said briefing her husband “Varna and Hassad will fall to us by the end of the month and I believe the Magistracy can capture both Kearny and Cirebon…†She said hesitating before speaking again.
“Continue I will not hold anything against you for saying what you believe needs saidâ€
“I do not believe we can sustain this conflict†she said finally “our resources are dwindling faster than those of the nations against us.â€
“You are right which is why I have planned for one final strike†he said looking at her pointing at a single remaining system she expected it to be Fletcher or Oriente but instead he pointed at New Delos. “We will break the District of Oriente literally.â€
“But they will still be connected politically†she pointed out just because their territory was split it didn’t mean that suddenly the nation would fall to pieces the St Ives Compact for example had held together far beyond the slitting of the nation and Star League Protectorate worlds were often separated by dozens of light-years yet they cooperated.
“Yes, but it will signal to the ‘top’ of the nation that Oriente only cares for itself. Regulus will welcome worlds with open arms and forget their fight with us the more Oriente haemorrhages the more they grow. The Federated Suns will seize the dream of rebuilding the fallen Sarna March internal division between Sarna and Kathil will divide their attention and we will have time to rebuild.â€
“Divide and conquer†she said thinking over the Chancellor’s idea it could work. Oriente’s allies were only allies because it was benefiting them Regulus, the FedRats and the Star League were all benefiting from the fight between Oriente and the Confederation. “New Delos will not fall easily.â€
“It doesn’t need to fall easily†he said confidently “it just needs to make a point†he said flicking his fingers. Off to the side the aide cut off the map giving the impression that Dao-Shen’s ‘click’ had ended the map.
Anti-Society Operation
Weston Forge, Laurent
Coyote Occupation Zone
23rd June 3108
Dezgra was the term used to name the Nova Cat’s Third Watch Cluster. Each of their Mechs carried the name every member of the unit wore the stigma of being dezgra because it allowed them to serve their Clan a little longer. The Third Watch Cluster had the highest average age of all currently active clusters in the Nova Cat Touman with an average age of forty-two years. But unlike other units with such a record the entire unit was equipped with advanced BattleMechs all designed to serve as part of this unit and this unit alone. When the other Clans had discovered the existence of the Third Watch Cluster they had demanded that it never be used against a Clan target – the Society were not Clan.
Now Star Colonel Franka West crouched near the road with the other Nighthawk PA(L) suits of her point they were the Elementals of her two stars were ready to act when called on. Along the road moved elements of the 202nd Battle Cluster of Clan Coyote their target. Franka watched the range tick down waiting until the entire enemy Supernova Trinary and the convoy they were escorting. “Drop the anvil†she commanded the BattleMechs each hidden by null signature systems in a single move both in front and behind the Coyote formation a two binaries made up of Exterminators and Spectors jumped into the front and rear of the Coyote formation while Liberators rose either side sealing the ambush. “I am Star Colonel Franka West commanding all elements of the 202nd to stand down now.â€
“Your use of stealth systems marks you as bad as those you claim as targets you could do so much more if you joined with these men and women.†A male voice said from one of the armoured transports.
“We may be two sides of the same coin but we know our duty and where our loyalties lie. 202nd we have you dead to rights surrender NOW.†Franka West commanded for a second final time, a final time.
“Surrender and you die!†The male voice said again this time his words brought actions particle cannons, lasers, missiles and autocannons quickly filled the sky. Several of Spector’s fell instantly as did two of the Liberators on the flanks but the return fire from the Third Watch devastated the defenders with missiles and laser fire from the Nova Cats cutting down multiple BattleMechs within seconds.
As the BattleMechs fought on each side of them the Nighthawks moved in from the sides two starts of Nova Cat Elementals concentrating fire with a single point taking down each defending Coyote Elemental. With the Elementals eliminated quickly and the battle still raging around them Star Colonel Franka West and her troopers moved vehicle to vehicle executing the crews of the armoured transports and checking them for munitions and prisoners. On the three centre vehicles of the seven vehicle convoy the Nova Cats found several Scientists from Clan Coyote including former Scientist General Helena one of the known Society leaders.
The spectacular success on Laurent comes at the right time as a similar operation on Mortiz goes horribly wrong and the entire Nova Cat Second Watch Cluster along with two Clan Coyote Clusters are completely wiped out when a Society Cell detonate a biological weapon in the atmosphere when forced to retreat. Within a week the whole world of Mortiz is placed under quarantine as the biological contagion spreads through the world’s small population like wildfire. By the end of August the world is essentially dead.
Under the guise of assisting the Coyotes against suspected Society units Clan Hell’s Horses move on the systems of Zoetermeer and Vulcan taking both fully under Horse control destroying the Eight Recon Cluster with overwhelming firepower. In an almost perfectly mirrored move the Rasalhague Dominion take control over the systems of Hohenhems and Basiliano again using the premise of fighting off suspected Society and insurgent forces. As the appointed leader of the efforts against the Society Khan Canin Rosse of Clan Nova Cat warn both Clans that further assaults on Coyote territory will be met by far greater force stating that their actions threaten to allow Society units to slip through the tightening net the Clans have cast for them. No action is taken against either Clan for the worlds that have already fallen to either the Horses or Bears.
Author note
I know the Mountain Wolf solution is not the ideal one. I had several options for them and I'll be honest I didn't know what I wanted to do for a good while. Here's some of the ideas I considered:
1) they stay the way they are essentially becoming part of the LCAF but also a wildcard like the canon Wolf (in-Exile) or Nova Cat Clans. I like this AU to try and take some different paths than canon so I ruled it out quick
2) they escape into the periphery - I had a storyline I was considering with the periphery for the distant future that I've now abandoned. But there's a second storyline I am actively pursuing along similar lines. The Mountain Wolves could have fit into that they could have been angry enough at the Inner Sphere for the state they were left in to turn their backs on them and go nuts. But it would have felt... wrong. You'll understand if the timeline gets that far (late 3120s) it would have felt like I took them that way because I needed their firepower and numbers to make that story work when I really don't.
3) they go into the Star League Protectorate. I seriously pursued this idea for a good while there is already Clan forces on New Earth (around a crashed WarShip). I could link the Mountain Wolves to them and over time they become SLDF units part and parcel with the rest of the Protectorate. Despite the similarities to the Republic foundation idea I kind of liked this idea for a while.
4) they return to the Wolves. You might think this is the cheats finish for the Mountain Wolves - it sort of it and sort of isn't. It's going to add a dimension to the core Wolf Clan we haven't seen for a while a division between Crusader and Warden (although those concepts have long been abandoned by the Wolves they care about themselves more than anyone else nowadays) it's going to give the Wolves back some of their character, give us some stories to tell inside the Wolf Empire and put a twist on their charging Clan machine. It also gives Clan Wolf TWO McKennas...
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Border raids
Small World, Alya Prefecture
Draconis Combine
4th July 3108
The border fighting continues between the Draconis Combine and the Federated Suns despite the efforts of Star League Protectorate diplomats to bring them back to the negotiating table. As the Draconis Combine attack Mallory’s World and Mara while Mordecia Sandoval leads troops to Small World and other AFFS units liberate Hean and Ankaa. The Fifth Tikonov Cossacks RCT and the First Albion Military Cadre push the DCMS units out of the Mallory’s World system but Mara falls to the DCMS.
DropShip Interception, WarShip Tetrarch
Quarell system Coyote OZ
Clan Occupation Zone
9th July 3108
The Nova Cat WarShip Tetrarch had been tasked with stopping any DropShip from leaving the surface of Quarell and it had failed an Overlord C had been able to take off from the planet and was now heading towards the jump point. “DropShip Aquidaban this is the Nova Cat WarShip Tetrarch stand down your propulsion for inspection. If you surrender you will come to no harm.†The WarShip’s communications officer said as the Battle-cruiser chased down the rogue Overlord C. The DropShip continued on its ballistic course away from Quarell “this is your last warning stand down your engines or face immediate action.†She said looking at the screens.
“Forward particle cannons on target prepare to fire weapons.†Star Admiral Braddick Leroux ordered from the centre of the room near the vessel’s holo-table.
“Sir, engines on Aqudaban have cut we are detecting zero forward thrust, they are not gaining speed†the communications officer said “they are also no breaking.â€
“Communications have them counter-rotate and slow their speed.†Leroux ordered “weapons remain hot fire if you see anything out of the ordinary.†As the message passed to the Overlord C the DropShip slowly began to turn then there was a small explosion on the side of the DropShip as one of its engine thrusters exploded sending the DropShip into a spin. “Analysis?â€
“Engine thrusters has blown under stress they’ll be lucky to recover themselves.â€
“Deploy a pair of Battle Taxis have them attach lines and stabilize craft.†Leroux reported as the DropShip continued to spin slow our speed. He commanded from mid way along the hull of the Tetrarch a pair of ovoid shaped Battle Taxi craft moved clear from the Battle-cruiser and began approaching the stricken DropShip.
“Active weapon locks!†The sensor operator called out moments later as lasers and missiles tore from the DropShip striking the two Battle Taxis and lancing out at the Tetrarch. “Holy crap… capital missiles!†He called out as two Killer Whale capital missiles flew out of what would have been DropShip’s Mechbay. The two missiles were targeted on the Tetrarch and flew straight towards the nose of the WarShip moments later the automated Laser Anti-Missile Systems swatted both missiles out of space.
“Take it out†Leroux ordered and the four forward Heavy Naval Particle Cannons shot from the front of the WarShip and blew the Overlord C in half. “Recall the Battle Taxis†Leroux ordered watching the expanding balls of metal realizing that if this WarShip had been a traditional Clan WarShip it could have been significantly damaged by the surprise attack from the missiles.
On the planet’s surface factions of the Society detonated several large bombs on the planet significantly damaging Quarell’s infrastructure and killing hundreds of civilians in collateral damage. The bombs are however the last resistance on Quarell as Coyote Elementals and ProtoMechs with Jade Falcon vehicle support wipe out the remaining resistance.
[b[Hall of Khans, Clan Wolf Hall
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
18th July 3108[/b]
Stepping into the Wolf Hall on Sheridan Evan Kell paused at the doorway and allowed the two armoured Elementals to decided if they would follow him or not when neither moved he walked into the room joining the two Khans present. “The Mountain Wolves stand ready to serve†he announced handing over the information of what he brought to the Clan after months of discussion he and Amina Kerensky had decided that she was the Khan of Clan Wolf and it would remain that way.
“Thank you Galaxy Commander†Amina Kerensky said using the Mountain Wolf leader’s new rank “welcome to Sheridan.†She said handing over the datapad to her saKhan.
“Running back into the den with your tail tucked neatly between your legs.†saKhan Fredrick Ward said glancing over the information. “There are only ten clusters listed? I thought there would be twelve?†He said looking at Amina and then to Evan “did the Lyrans nursemaids cause you troubles?â€
“Neg, both clusters chose to remain in the Lyran Commonwealth along with approximately twenty-five thousand civilians who believed their paths remained aligned with House Steiner.â€
“Could not control your own people?†Ward taunted “perhaps it is correct that you surrendered your position.â€
“The warriors that remained were little more than Solahma warriors all of them adhere to the old Warden ways while the civilians are simply more mouths to feed. Tell me Fredrick Ward would they have been welcome here?†Kell shot back while Amina Kerensky remained aloof of discussion watching them.
“There are many who do not want any of you here. And now that you are here you will have to live by the Clan rules of life and of war.â€
“Your honesty is appreciated saKhan Ward†Kell said deciding to make his first choice as a Wolf warrior “and since we are living by Clan rules I challenge you to a Circle of Equals.†He said looking at saKhan Fredrick Ward who looked shocked at the sudden change in direction of their discussion. Amina Kerensky remained silent continuing to observe.
“For what reason I am the saKhan of Kerensky’s Wolves you cannot just challenge me you need a reason Galaxy Commander.â€
“Fine I see you as a threat to my Galaxy and my people; I dislike your tone and your words while talking to me and you have something that I want.â€
“You cannot become saKhan by defeating me in a Circle†he warned
“Neg, but I can make your position vacant by killing you in a Circle of Equals†he said stepping towards the saKhan intimidating the younger man. “This is the Clan way, Quiaff?â€
“Aff it is†Amina Kerensky agreed showing she would not stop the Circle.
“Then we will fight tomorrow outside the Capital with our OmniMechs. You against me Evan Kell and if I should be victorious you will die.â€
“Until tomorrow†he said turning towards Amina Kerensky “Khan†he said finally bowing his head for a moment before walking out of the hall.
“I will kill him and then take care of pulling apart the two Galaxies that followed him. We do not need them my Khan.†Ward said finally before walking out of the Hall leaving Amina Kerensky to ponder the future she had welcomed with the arrival of the Mountain Wolves.
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The next day Evan Kell’s Lycurgus OmniMech stepped onto the grass covered plain south of the Wolve’s capital the OmniMech was common in Clan Wolf and he was not surprised to see Fredrick Ward step onto the field in another Lycurgus. He knew that Fredrick Ward normally piloted a Timber Wolf OmniMech but that the warrior would not have wanted to give the ten ton advantage to his rival.
With the traditional pleasantries over with Evan cut to the right twisting his Lycurgus torso to track Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech he triggered all three torso mounted Extended-Range Large Lasers there was an instant burst of heat into the OmniMech’s cockpit. The red beams burned over Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech as Evan pushed through the heat and continued to move turning towards the Wolf saKhan. A gauss rifle slug, large laser and group of tightly packed advanced tactical missiles flew towards Evan’s Mech the gauss rifle tore over his OmniMech’s left shoulder missing by metres while the ATMs slammed into the upper left arm while the laser burned over the torso. Evan ignored the damage cutting to the left as he zig-zagged closer to the enemy Mech cutting in the Myomer Acceleration Signal Circuitry (MASC) as he closed rapidly reducing the closing speed as the range ticked down he opened fire with his long range missile launcher and one of the large lasers causing more damage to Ward’s Mech. More laser and missile fire tracked from the enemy Lycurgus along with another gauss slug which this time connected with Evan’s OmniMech opening a hole in the right leg armour.
Changing direction again Evan ducked his massive eighty-five ton OmniMech out of the way of another flight of advanced tactical missiles firing another volley of laser fire into Ward’s Lycurgus. He glanced at the sensors and saw the range between the OmniMechs tick down with every step until he was in range lining the left arm with the other Lycurgus he triggered the massive assault autocannon there sending a high explosive slug into the enemy Mech along with another volley of missiles and laser fire. The autocannon ripped into the torso of the enemy Mech and were followed by the long range missiles causing massive holes in Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech exposing the insides of the OmniMech. A small explosion erupted inside the Lycurgus as one of the lasers shorted out from the damage. Another gauss rifle shot and missiles slammed into Kell’s OmniMech but he ignored the damage instead he listened to the autocannon and missile launcher reload and triggered both again along with one of the lasers this time he saw the assault-class LB-type autocannon tear through the torso of Ward’s Lycurgus and penetrate the engine shielding. There was a massive bloom of heat as the damage turned Ward’s cockpit into a furnace the missiles following the autocannon slug slammed into the torso causing yet more damage.
Despite what was often said about BattleMechs by civilians they could take a lot of punishment despite the damage taken by Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech and the heat conditions inside the cockpit of the Lycurgus the pilot continued to engage with the low heat producing gauss rifle and ATM launcher causing yet more damage to Evan Kell’s machine. Evan saw two of his large lasers were gone as was the fire control system on his long range missile launcher. At this range it didn’t matter Evan waited a moment for the cannon and launcher to reload keeping Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech in his sights as he played with the MASC system keeping the enemy warrior guessing where he would be before unleashing a final volley of autocannon, missile and laser fire into the Lycurgus finally finishing Fredrick Ward’s battle with further impacts on the torso and an explosion from the damaged gauss rifle causing the assault Mech to fall to the right slamming into the ground in an uncontrolled fall shattering what was left of the gauss rifle arm under the OmniMech’s weight. While not a blood thirsty man Evan Kell knew what he needed to do next aiming at the downed Lycurgus he triggered the OmniMech’s autocannon one final time smashing the cockpit and killing Fredrick Ward.
[centre]---[/centre]
Over the next six days Evan Kell defeated a further three opponents to claim the position of saKhan of Clan Wolf. After his final battle he sat in the ready room wrapped in a towel thinking about what had brought him here. He had brought his Wolves into Clan Wolf and while he had not expected a warm welcome he had not expected to kill to have to kill four Wolves so soon. He had ensured that each of those he had fought had died in their battles securing his position. The door to the changing room opened and in entered Amina Kerensky wearing a fetching grey jumpsuit with red highlights on the sides, wrists and ankles. Her outfit set off her recently dyed red hair. “Congratulations saKhan†she said confirming she would not oppose his appointment. “Not quite the entry I was expecting from you.â€
“Not what I planned†he admitted they had spoken for weeks before the merger of Wolf and Mountain Wolf. During those discussions he had agreed to become a Galaxy Commander in Clan Wolf and sacrifice his Clan’s independence for their survival. “If your saKhan had been more amenable to the arrival of my people then I would have worked with him but he did not.â€
“And your ruthless dispatching of your opponents over the last days?â€
“Ensuring there are not more opponents in the coming days†he said with a forced smile he had not enjoyed the kills but they had been necessary.
“I understand†she admitted “you do know you cannot fight every war for your people quiaff?â€
“Affirmative†he said glancing down “but my victories have showed that my people can fight their way into the Clan become part of it instead of a part on the outside.†He said seeing her sceptical look “I know that some bloodlines will always be considered outsiders.†He said not needing to name his own Bloodhouse in that knowing that the Kell name would always be seen as outsiders. “But I wanted to show them all there was a way and if you try to turn on my people en masse we will resist and cause more damage to the Wolves than the damage that was done in the Refusal War.†He warned her.
“You are a bastard Evan Kell†she snapped knowing that she had welcomed them back to Clan Wolf thinking that she would be remembered as the one who unified Clan Wolf and then the one that made the Wolf the ilClan. She had prepared her Wolves for a betrayal from Kell’s people for them to arrive firing their weapons and causing havoc but had not prepared for them to arrive peacefully and then turn her Clan upside down from within. Now she had to live with that choice and live with Evan Kell as her second in command. “I have a mission for you†she said seeing his curiosity peaked “I want you to inform Star Colonel Duncan Vickers to take his First Wolf Guards Cluster to Ford to join the Wolf Hussars there in defence.â€
“Aff, question why me?†He asked looking at her curious it was a simple order that she could have passed in a moment.
“They are experience men and women I know you would like to keep them close I need you to understand that they are now my forces to command and while you want to stand up for them, saKhan, I command the Wolves.â€
“I understand Khan Amina Kerensky, but also understand that all of the Wolves are now my Wolves as well and if I see you as unfit†he said rising from the bench “I will challenge, I will defeat you and kill you as I have my previous opponents.†He warned her Amina Kerensky looked him up and down for a moment before turning and leaving the ready room he was sure he heard her laugh but he also knew that now she knew exactly what he was capable of.
Launch Day, MS Grand Marik (Imperial-class Battleship)
Ionus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
25th July 3108
Slowly the one point seven million ton Imperial-class Battleship moved clear of the Ionus shipyards into open space. The vessel was the Free Worlds League’s newest and biggest WarShip capable of putting up a fight against the other massive WarShips fielded by the Clans and Inner Sphere. The MS Grand Mark had enough speed to match a Lyran Mjolnir and carried enough capital particle cannons, lasers, missiles and autocannons to threaten any other WarShip in the black.
Captain-General Joseph Marik stood on the main gravity deck of the shipyard facility as he watched the Battleship. He was proud of what he saw while a man of peace he knew that the best way to defend his people, and his family, was with weapons that could match those against his nation. The Battleship continued to move away from the floating framework and was joined in space by several assault DropShips and squadrons of aerospace fighters which moved into escort positions around the large ship. The Captain-General remained watching the MS Grand Marik turn in space towards the shipyards and in perfect formation with the DropShips and aerospace fighters as they moved over the facility right in front of the holo-vid cameras which would broadcast this image of naval might and of the Captain-General watching them proudly across the Free Worlds League.
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Nice update. Are there stats for the Imperial?
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Good update on the Wolves and the FWL's newest Warship.
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Stats for Imperial-class and Tetrarch will be out soon
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FINALLY time for an update
Naval Tech Conference, Elysium Technologies
Geneva, Europe
Terra, Star League Protectorate
2nd August 3108
The slightly overweight middle-aged engineer stepped up to the podium pushing his glasses up his nose and brushing back his dark greying shoulder-length hair he looked around the room full of the smartest doctors, scientists and engineers in the Inner Sphere and periphery. “Ladies and gentlemen the WarShip Anti-Missile System has failed to live up to the expectations set by the Star League Defence Force and the member states.†He said there were some shocked glances, others were annoyed but a fair few looked like they agreed with him. “The WAMS is too complicated, expensive and you cannot fit it onto the current generation of WarShips only on future vessels and it adds millions to the cost of each and every ship.†He said manipulating the holoimager displaying an image of an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser. “This is the LCS Sweet River of the Lyran Commonwealth Navy, formerly the Blue Talon of the Jade Falcon Navy and before that a vessel of the Star League Defence Force. Ladies and gentlemen this vessel is over seven hundred years old and despite its age and its extended service to date it is still considered to be one of the most deadly WarShip designs ever created.†He said pausing allowing the Sweet River to rotate slowly “when the Lyran Commonwealth salvaged this Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser they decided that the ship would not remain in its original Clan configuration. Instead to great cost they chose to upgrade its armour to Lamellor Ferro Carbide, add a Second Generation Lithium Fusion Battery, they have installed an extensive laser anti-missile and screen launcher system in every weapons arc improving this vessel’s capabilities immeasurably. This ship is even more likely to survive a space battles now than it ever has it and it continues to be as deadly as it has ever been.†He said allowing it to sink in to a trained eye they could see where new anti-missile systems and screen launchers had been added to every arc creating a protective net around the ship. “Our intelligence sources suggest that the Clans are extensively upgrading their classic Star League and early Clan designs in a similar fashion making each of them far more capable.†He said “our WAMS system does not give us a significant enough advantage over these vessels in defence and provides nothing for offence. We cannot rely on this system to provide us with the advantage we require in the future.†He said pausing allowing his words to sink in “under development we currently have a Laser base version of the WAMS which at present promises to provide an offensive option as well as a defensive one giving the potential for a superior defence system. But this system is still restricted to the defence of that vessel and attacks against weapons passing that vessel.†He said activating the holotank again showing the Aegis-class LCS Sweet River once more now showing two DropShips either side of the ship.
“In this scenario the two flanking ships are providing additional Anti-Missile Cover for the Sweet River intent on allowing the Heavy Cruiser to get to its target regardless of what weapons are used against it†he said as multiple simulated missiles were fired on the Heavy Cruiser and shot down by the anti-missile systems on the DropShips. “In this scenario the attacker will direct weapons fire on the DropShips to eliminate them or excessive amounts of missiles will overwhelm the defences of the DropShips and allow for strikes against the Heavy Cruiser. The Sweet River will get to its target but the DropShips will not likely survive the encounter and there is nothing that the WarShip or her crew can do.†He said pausing changing the holoimage to show a capital missile.
“At Elysium Technologies we have been working on a different type of defence. The Rayfin Missile†he said naming the missile shown above “based on a modified Barracuda Capital Missile the Rayfin is designed to augment and support a space vessel’s defences and when combined with a Naval Command and Control Net the Rayfin has the ability to target missiles not targeted on the host vessel. It can be fired from standard Barracuda Launchers or from AR-10 Multi-purpose Capital Missile Launchers.†Moments later the image changed the Sweet River once more with two DropShips flanking it. As the capital missiles came in the two DropShips shot down several of the incoming missiles but over and above the anti-missile systems the Rayfin fired from the Sweet River helped defend the DropShips allowing them to last longer. “This missile will allow naval vessels to support each other improving their combat capabilities and improving the chances of more crews making it home. Thank you for your time†he said stepping down from the podium as the holoimage changed back to show the Rayfin Missile hovering in front of the crowd who were applauding loudly.
Border Conflict
Coyote Occupation Zone
5th August 3108
As the fighting continues against the Society Clan Hell’s Horses continues to assault Coyote systems intending on making the Coyotes pay for their dealings with the Society and bringing them to the Inner Sphere. On the world of Dell the Hell’s Horses find a Society stronghold which puts up a fight Khan Teresia Cooper leads her Clansmen personally against the Society. During the fighting a particle cannon blast rips through her Gnome Battle Armour suit killing the Khan inside. The Horses are driven to destroy the remaining Society forces and take control over the planet. New Khan Gottgreid Amirault orders his Clansmen to continue their assaults on Svaarstad and Ridderkerk bringing both into the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone and putting yet more pressure on the surviving elements of the Society.
Clarkston (Bug Eye Surveillance Craft)
Terada WarShip Yards, Dieron
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
12th August 3108
The diminutive Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft Clarkston moved slowly towards the Terada Shipyards of the Dieron System under the cover of a military transport DropShip but in reality its powerful sensors were hard at work collecting everything it could from the system. In the centre of the bridge Captain Olivier Martinez read reports on the two Tatsumaki-class Destroyers and two Inazuma-class Corvettes under construction at the yards both were noted as being as part of the Phase II development of the design and had no marked improvements over the design. There were also nearly two dozen DropShips under construction at the orbital yards and hundreds of supply ships. His vessel just disappeared into the bustling traffic of the system Olivier was not concerned with the other traffic or even the WarShip construction here he only had eyes for the DCS Akagi which was undergoing repairs and clean-up following the nuclear strike in the Helen system.
“This has got to be the worse situation we’ve ever flown into.†Ben Sawyer his executive and helm officer said glancing over at the Captain.
“What about the run over Alpheratz?†Olivier mentioned the Raven coverage of Oriente had been far denser but he silently agreed Dieron was a different animal.
“Sure the Ravens played hard to get but at least you get some warning from them unlike this lot.â€
“Oh wow would you look at that†Emily Neilson exclaimed from the sensor station Olivier glanced over startled for a moment but realized she had barely moved.
“What is it Em?†He asked they’d been on the same crew for years now ranks below Captain mattered little. Emily didn’t need further encouragement and instead of describing what she saw she sent the image onto one of the main screens so all five bridge crew could see what she had been surprised at.
The image showed the recently arrived DCS Lyon’s Thumb, a Kyushu-class Frigate, the ship had been at the jump point for several days before making a surprise inter-system jump near the yards. Now the reason for the arrival was made clear as an entire Regiment of Land Air Mechs headed towards the ship. As they made their first fly past over Frigate an entire company of LAMs converted into their BattleMech configuration and walked the length of the hull before turning back into aerospace fighters and rejoining the regiment. “Impressive†Neil Tyson said watching the screen as a second company did exactly the same “practice makes perfect.â€
“It’s an introduction†Amelie Durand said looking at the information on her screen cross checking it with the Clarkston’s records “that’s the Ninth Yokosuka Regiment of the Special Naval Landing Forces. The Dracs newest toy LAM unit and the Lyon’s Thumb has only recently left the Omi Kurita Flotilla this is regiment meeting base ship.â€
“Some meeting†Neilson said changing the image to show one of the Stinger LAMs from the third company shattered against the hull of the Lyon’s Thumb. A technical malfunction or pilot error had caused the destruction of one of the LAMs and the death of its pilot. “A waste of a LAM and pilot†she said disgusted by the wasted vehicle and pilot it might have been a Combine warrior but no-one deserved to die so cheaply. The other companies seemed to ignore their fallen compatriot as they continued cycling through the meeting ritual and then moved around and rose into their individual bays a small craft launched and began to collect the remains of the destroyed Stinger.
Olivier Martinez watched the display with the others but his focus was on one of the other screens the dockyard that held the DCS Akagi as the Clarkston continued to close on the massive WarShip silent surrounded by a lattice of repair bays and workers who were like ants against its massive hull as they prepared the ship for its next mission. “A couple of nukes in the right spot would make all the difference.†He said as the Clarkston continued forward he had suggested to command to load the Bug Eye’s two escape pods with nuclear weapons and to ram them down the Akagi’s throat but he had been overruled as command believed that using nuclear weapons over an important world like Dieron would be an escalation too far for the Draconis Combine.
“…Captain… Captain†Sawyer repeated turning in his chair to face Martinez “Ollie we need to get onto the escape trajectory before anyone rumbles us.†He said attempting to get the Captain out of his trance.
“Right†Martinez said regaining his composure “get your last scans of that ship and set a course for Bemer we’ll slingshot around it and get into open space.†He said the Clarkston didn’t carry cargo and couldn’t land on Dieron so there was only one option remaining. “All hands brace for increased acceleration†he said keying in the ship-wide communication system.†As the sensors continued to scan their target Sawyer slightly altered the course of the ship while pouring on the speed increasing the thrust placed on the crews.
Both acts would arouse suspicion but there wasn’t another option. As the Bug Eye turned patrolling aerospace fighters noted the Clarkston out of position and moved to intercept and turn the ship back onto a correct course unfortunately for them the Clarkston had a WarShip sized engine and suddenly three gravities of acceleration and then four filled the hull of the Clarkston as the small ship rapidly accelerated.
“Let’s just hope there isn’t anyone on Bemer today†Emily Neilson nodded as the small craft rapidly gained speed.
“Ben, make sure we stay out of range of any ground fire just in case†Martinez commanded as the ship hurtled towards the airless moon. If anyone was on the surface and decided to take pot shots at them the shots could still hit them because there was nothing to stop weapons fire in space but their fire would be highly inaccurate.
“We’ll be going too fast for it even to matter†Sawyer stated as the ship continued acceleration now caught in Bemer’s light gravitational field. “Cutting thrust I’ll use the rest to break us free from the moon.†He said the crew felt lighter for a moment as inertia carried the small Bug Eye on its course around the moon away from Dieron and the aerospace fighters. As they moved around the moon of Bemer the small vessel’s powerful engines suddenly were lit once again and the ship was accelerating once more breaking away from the moon and heading into space, there was chance of any of the defending ships catching the retreating Clarkston. Hours later the Clarkston was clear of the gravity wells of the Dieron system and it was able to jump clear of the system leaving the Draconis Combine and passing into the Star League Protectorate system of Caph. Arriving on the outer edge of the Caph system the Clarkston would spend the next three weeks acting like another DropShip travelling through the system before finally returning to the Federated Suns in late September.
Thirty-fifth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Independent World
20th August 3108
Following the recent troubles in the Isle of Skye and the amalgamating of Clans Wolf and Mountain Wolf Thirty-fifth Star League Games begins on Solaris VII under a heavy cloud of security as the entire Solaris Defence Brigade and the Second Ebon Guard Cluster deploy across Solaris. While the public of Solaris are generally against such heavy security businesses across the planet benefit as the troops need to eat and need to let off steam when not on duty bringing a massive boost to the planetary economy.
In the Star League Stadium pilot Lea Cruickshank, of the Lyran Commonwealth, stuns the other competitors piloting her near factory-new Knight 3X which has been equipped with a Void Signature System, triple strength myomer strength system, a headhunter missile system, a particle cannon and a lance. The fifty-five ton BattleMech which was designed and built on Coventry is too much for the other pilots who are unprepared for a BattleMech with the speed and firepower combination of the new Knight 3X and the Thirty-fifth Champion of the Star League Games is crowned.
Despite the successes of Lea Cruickshank most people wonder about the young pilot’s BattleMech which is clearly a prototype machine using technology not commonly seen on Lyran Commonwealth BattleMechs. Few expect the BattleMech to reach full production due to the massive cost required to build the experimental design but some wonder if it is an indication of a new design in the works by Coventry Metal Works.
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Launching Ceremony, Storm Shadow
Illium Shipyards, Ionus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
3rd September 3108
Standing in the Command Centre of the Storm Shadow Colonel, his unit’s recently completed League III-class Destroyer, Tim Storm was out of place. He was a MechWarrior he had no place on the deck of a WarShip but he would never miss this day beside him Captain Phillipe Van Dyke, who had seen the ship rebuilt and re-launched here at Ionus. “Nervous?†He asked Phillipe glancing over at the older man.
“A littleâ€
“Wishing you were the one commanding her?â€
“A little†he admitted glancing over at the Colonel “shut-up Stormy†he whispered as Captain David Prentiss, the ships commander, entered the bridge. He was a young man but he was also the husband of Tim Storm’s eldest daughter. He had previously been an aerospace fighter pilot and the commander of the regiment’s Hive-class DropShip. Standing inside the bridge door he came to attention and saluted the two older men before moving into the middle of the room.
“Contact the operations centre.†He commanded immediately “helm, prime engines for one half gravity acceleration. Damage Control I want to ensure all external locks are secure no accidents.†He said moving around the room rapidly giving his orders before looking up into the holotank in the middle of the room seeing the Ionus system beyond them. Near the shipyards was the MS Grand Marik, the Free Worlds League’s newest Battleship, the ship was technically still undergoing trials but its presence was a clear message if the mercenary WarShip stepped out of line it would immediately face a far superior WarShip in combat. “We are a new ship and a new crew†he said quietly to start with but his voice gaining strength “but every member of the Shadow Guard are behind us and our commander is here today to support us.†He said looking over at Colonel Tim Storm “Colonel, you led us to Spirit and found this ship. We have fought to see her restored and the crews under Captain Van Dyke have done a fantastic job with her. You have honoured me with command of this vessel I will not let you down nor will this crew.†He said Tim Storm remained standing where he was silent as a statue his mouth too dry with pride to speak.
“Captain Prentiss, sir, we have been cleared to leave spacedock†the communications officer said standing at her position to deliver the order. Despite the ship not being under thrust each crewmen able to stand due to their magnetic boots which slowed movement around the deck but at least kept everyone the same way up.
“Thank you, Lieutenant†Prentiss replied glancing over at Tim Storm for a moment but then turning to Captain Van Dyke “sir, if you would indulge me you rebuilt this ship for my crew please order us into the black.†He said addressing the older Captain. Tim Storm glanced at him proudly as Captain Phillipe Van Dyke brought him to attention glancing all around the room.
“Well I don’t know what you are all gawking at this is a WarShip she doesn’t belong inside a shipyard. Get her into space ladies and gentlemen and for heaven sake don’t scratch the pain on your first day.†He said adding a little levity to the proceedings the helm officers didn’t need a second command and with the engines already primed there was a rush of energy as the five hundred-and-fifty thousand ton Stormchaser slowly slipped clear of the shipyard into open space. As it cleared the docks multiple aerospace fighters from the MS Grand Marik passed over and under the Stormchaser tipping their wings in salute to the new ships launch. The Stormchaser would now face weeks of trials before finally it would return to Spirit and rejoin the rest of the Shadow Guard Command.
HPG Transmission, Marik Royal Palace
Dormuth, Marik
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
18th September 3108
Joseph Marik had not slept for the last thirty-six hours ever since the difficult birth of his fifth child Zachariah Marik. Since the child’s birth he had fought and struggled more than most grown men would in their whole lives as each breath was a laboured one. The doctors had discovered he had a defect in his heart one that would prove fatal if not treated unfortunately there was only one option, an artificial heart, which would see Zachariah as an outcast within the Free Worlds League for life. What was worse Joseph’s wife Lucy was against the use of an artificial heart stating that her children would live with real organs or they would not stand which had led to this sleepless night as his wife remained at the child’s side. Intelligence Secretary Charlene Sheppard stepped into the room “Captain-General, the doctors say that you cannot wait any longer is Duchess Marik still against the operation?â€
“Yes, she won’t leave his side†Joseph said turning back towards Sheppard “which is why you must do what has to be done.†He said looking at her his mind made “the Duchess cannot be harmed under any circumstances.â€
“Of course†Sheppard said “she will forgive you Captain-General.â€
“I hope so†he said turning away Sheppard waited a moment and then left. Within the hour SAFE Agents disguised as nurses moved in on Duchess Lucy Marik and knocked out the Captain-General’s wife with a sedative allowing the doctors to begin the operation to fit Zachariah Marik with an artificial heart which would allow him to live despite Lucy Marik’s desires.
The next morning Lucy Marik burst into Joseph’s office and marched up to his desk seeing that her husband had still not slept. “How could you?†She demanded looking at him her face a scene of betrayal caused by the man she loved.
“I could not allow my son to die when I knew something could be done.†He stated cleanly “if any of our children die through an accident, from illness or battle that is out with my command I will mourn them and learn to live with the loss. I could not and would not allow our son to die when I knew I could fix it.â€
“Despite my wishesâ€
“We were both emotional†he said rising from his chair “Zachariah will recover. We will be ok.†He said reaching out for her but his wife did not move.
“You are correct we will be ok†she said turning away from her husband “to help Zachariah recover I will take Anson, Ruth, Malachi and Aaron to Washburn to see my family to give him the peace he needs.â€
“We could all go a change of scenery could do us all good.†He said looking at her back not liking what he was hearing.
“You are needed here and with the other children away little Zach will be able to recover from his operation in peace.†She said turning back toward him “we will come back, it will be for a short time.†She promised with a small apologising smile Joseph eventually nodded his agreement turning to look out over the plains of Marik.
“I will arrange an escort.â€
“My family’s guards will be sufficient.â€
“No.†Joseph making the decision for her “they are my children†he said “they will be fully protected and escorted at all times.†He said he would make sure she couldn’t go further without his knowledge and only those he wanted access would gain access to his family regardless of the Buckwell Family’s desires.
Command Meeting, Tetrarch
Tamar, Nova Cat Territory
Clan Occupation Zones
23rd September 3108
A battered and bloodied Khan Canin Rosse entered the briefing room on board the WarShip Tetrarch followed by saKhan Sepp Heller of Clan Coyote. “Khan Heller will not be joining us… for the rest of his life having paid for Clan Coyote’s complete ineptness in handling this situation.†He said angrily stepping up towards the table in the centre of the room seeing the stunned faces around him. “I have also decided that Tamar will be a permanent holding of Clan Nova Cat the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster will arrive in two weeks to take stewardship over the world. Khan Sepp Heller has agreed there will be no further combat for the holdings here.†He said glancing over his shoulder at the young man.
“Aff… Aff that is correct†he said less than thirty minutes before Sepp Heller and many other senior Coyotes had witnessed Khan Rosse kill Carl Heller in a Circle of Equals.
“I thought that you were the one who wished to see Clan Coyote survive? And the one who disparaged other Clans who have seized territory they have fought the Society for Quiaff?†Ragnar Magnesson the Khan of the Rasalhague Dominion questioned of the Clans only Rosse, Heller, Magnesson and new Horse Khan Gottgreid Amirault were present the others represented by at most a Star Colonel.
“Aff, I was but the Coyote’s mishandling of this situation deserved a response. Allowing these renegades access to nuclear weapons, which were almost used against this very ship, required punishment.†He said angrily
“I agree†Star Colonel Snow Mattlov the head of the Jade Falcon Watch said “which is why I believe that “which is why I believe that Khan Jana Pryde will support me when I declare this Trial of Absorption of Clan Coyote.â€
“Star Colonel Mattlov†Canin Rosse said moving around the table to stand in front of the larger Elemental glancing up at him “I have killed a Khan today it was not something I wanted to do it was something that needed to be done.†He said looking at the man “now do you think that killing a Star Colonel will phase me at the slightest bit?†He asked he knew Mattlov was not the angry, unpredictable Jade Falcon warrior that was common place in the Jade Falcon Clan he was more opportunistic which was exactly what he was trying today.
“Negâ€
“So would you like to retract that claim of Absorption?â€
“Aff I would†he said glancing down “I overstepped my bounds Khan Rosse this is your mission to command.†He said stepping back each of them had agreed that Rosse’s command was absolute until operations against the Society were complete. After all it was Rosse who had agreed to complete the operation per the instructions of the Clan Council while most of the Clans had taken things from the Coyotes from designs to factories to entire star systems none of the Clans had outright disobeyed Canin Rosse’s commands.
“Good†he said stepping back to the table. “We still have operations on six Coyote worlds and it appears there is a conflict on several Horse worlds?â€
“It is unrelated†Gottgreid Amirault answered news that Clan Jade Falcon had landed forces on Hamilton, Dukambie and Cumbres had passed far quicker than he had anticipated. Early reports suggested the Trials for the planets were being fought with Zellbrigen and unfortunately it appeared the Jade Falcons had the upper hand on each world.
“Fine†Rosse said turning back to the others “we have identified what we believe is the final Society stronghold on the world of Blackstone in the periphery.†He said naming the world beyond the Hell’s Horses OZ. “We will defeat these rebels once and for all.â€
“Rasalhague could bombard the surface to ash†Magnesson suggested the Society were without honour it was a valid tactic.
“Orbital fire support may be required†Rosse conceded “however several of their facilities are built below ground. I do not wish them to survive bombardment underground for years and to remerge to cause trouble in the future.†He stated “I plan on leading the ground battle myself. I began this campaign and I plan to finish it. I invite you all to join me.†He said with the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster on its way to secure Tamar the Nova Cats were almost ready to leave while the other Clans would be given time to prepare their forces before their final battle.
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See what happens when I get some holidays here's another update
I'd like to thank JA Baker for letting me play with Fenwick - it's been a while but I've gotten around to it finally
And Sharpnel for posting http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55511.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55511.0) which has become the Nemean with one configuration added to give it an BA LBX Firedrake option.
Border Skirmish
Federated Suns/Draconis Combine border
3rd October 3108
The Draconis Combine and Federated Suns low intensity border skirmish continues as the two nations continue fighting over a few worlds. With Mordecia Sandoval known to be on Small World commanding a detachment of the AFFS the DCS Draconis Rift and the First Yokosuka Special Landing Force Regiment carried inside it launch an assault. With LAMs filling the air and assaulting the ground forces pinning Mordecia Sandoval in position the DCS Draconis Rift opens fire directly on Sandoval’s position effectively wiping out Sandoval, the First Robinson Strikers LCT and the First Robinson Defenders units. Further along the border heavy fighting is recorded on Ozawa and Mallory’s World as the DCMS seize Ozawa but are forced to retreat from Mallory’s World. On Ozawa McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry are forced to retreat off world with seventeen year old Grant McCarron becomes a MechWarrior as he commandeers a Bandersnatch BattleMech to engage the Combine forces. Although he is unable to destroy any of the BattleMechs he is fighting during the retreat it is the first real battle for the young heir of the mercenary command. With no WarShips to support the DCMS are unable to stop the mercenary command withdrawing from battle.
As word passes of Modecia Sandoval’s passing Field Marshal of the Draconis March Jerome Sandoval, his cousin, orders the MIIO investigation into Mordecia’s involvement in Duke Tancred Sandoval’s death and his questionable financial actions squashed. Instead Jerome turns to the Federated Suns media agencies ordering them to spin the story setting Mordecia Sandoval up as a hero of the Draconis March and the Federated Suns.
Snow Raven Proving Grounds
Quatre Belle, Raven Alliance
Periphery
11th October 3108
“Treachery to Sceptre and Spartan complete a full roll on our mark†the communications officer on the bridge of the Snow Raven Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser. “And mark†she commanded beyond the Troop Cruiser the seven hundred and ten thousand ton Sceptre and Spartan completed full rolls of their hull before righting themselves alongside the Treachery. The communication’s officer looked at Treachery’s commander who nodded. “Superb and Sovereign complete directional change one hundred and eighty degrees on our mark… and mark.†She said this time the Superb lowered its nose turning end over end as its nose while the Sovereign did the same but instead of lowering its nose it raised end over end. It as the intricate dance continued through space the four seven hundred and ten thousand ships continued to manoeuvre. Each of the ships was based on the Splendid-class Cruiser Hull but each of the ships was configured different as the Snow Ravens tried various different weapons and carried craft on the ships.
Graduation Ceremony
Sandhurst, England
Terra, Star League Protectorate
19th October 3108
Although Star League Defence Force cadets trained all over Terra it was tradition for each class to pass by the commandant’s tower at the end of the parade ground at Sandhurst in Southern England. In the grandstand behind the tower Duke Bannister Cameron stood beside his wife Andrea Kincaid-Cameron and watched proudly as the cadets passed the tower looking immaculate in their uniforms and in their ranks. Although he could not see from where he was within the ranks were his son Jeremy and his daughter Nicola as they completed their training and joined the Star League Defence Force following in the footsteps of their parents.
Off to Bannister’s side he was aware of someone else standing just off at the side glancing over he saw a young Star League Defence Force Major who immediately saluted after gaining Bannister’s attention. Initially the Duke ignored the man he had retired from the military life and had no reason to interfere but the Captain remained standing where he was slowly lowering the salute. “Speak son†Bannister said finally giving up on ignoring the man.
“Sir, I’m Major Simon Rosberg of Star League Intelligence†he said introducing himself.
“I’m retired Major...†he began “Rosberg as in Adrian Rosberg?â€
“My father, sirâ€
“A good soldier I was sorry to hear of his passing Major†he said Adrian Rosberg had been a Colonel in the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division during Bannister Cameron’s command the man was known for running a tight Mech Regiment, even if he was also a bit of a joker at times, Bannister had kept tabs on many of the officers and warriors who had served in his command.
“Thank you, sir†he replied but didn’t move from his position.
“Either way, Major, today my children join the ranks of the Star League Defence Force I’ve retired from command duties take anything else to your CO.â€
“Yes, sir, I normally would but he isn’t part of the family and doesn’t credit my work with the attention it should require.†He said “the family†was what members of the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division, the crew of the SLS Wasp, and their descendants often regarded themselves as original members of the Star League Defence Force out of their place in time and now part of this new Star League. Bannister Cameron and his own direct family tried not to make such references they were members of the Star League regardless of what era they were in.
“Then you go sideways, Major, come now you can’t have raised in rank without knowing how to speak to your superiors and get your ideas forwards?†He asked finally looking at the man as the last ranks of cadets passed the tower.
“Yes, sir, I mean no, sir, I do have alternative reporting methods but this intelligence refers to something I have found from the records of the Second and the Wasp and I wished make further enquires.â€
“As your question Major†Bannister said deciding to humour the man as he was part of the family.
“I was wondering if the name Fenwick meant anything to you?â€
“Fenwick†Bannister repeated a moment or two later “Fenwick†he said rolling the name around in his mind for a moment. “I vaguely remember a Michael Fenwick but that was when I was still a Lieutenant.†He said as the Major took a step closer.
“Sir, there was eight Fenwicks in the original Star League Defence Force all died during the Liberation of the Terran Hegemony campaign. However I do not refer to an individual instead a system.â€
“A system?†Bannister asked glancing at Andrea who also shrugged her shoulders “a system that appears on our records but not on those of the Inner Sphere. Sir, we know that ComStar hid systems from the Inner Sphere and then the Word of Blake did the same. Fenwick could be another of those systems.â€
“And why is your CO not crediting this intelligence as important as they should?â€
“Because the information comes from a member of the Wasp’s original crew an officer who is no longer with us.†He said seeing Bannister give a questioning look “I was tasked with going through their personal databases to ensure no tactical or classified data in their logs before it was archived permanently.â€
“And this data isn’t backed up elsewhere?†Andrea Kincaid-Cameron asked speaking for the first time remaining by her husband’s side. Despite Victor Steiner-Davion being the First Lord of the Star League and basing himself and his wife off of Terra Bannister and Cameron were still considered to be the “first family†of the Star League and seeing them together was a morale booster for many.
“Nothing that directly refers to it, which is why the data has been written off, there is nothing left not even on some of ComStar’s old record files.â€
“Is the system there?†Bannister asked beginning to wonder if the reason the Major’s work had been written off was because it had been checked and there was nothing there.
“There is a system there with five planets unfortunately it is far off the local JumpShip traffic routes and has rarely been visited. Reports suggest that a JumpShip did travel through the system in 2843 looking for dissidents to Kurita rulership they found no worlds within the Habitation Zone but a proper survey of the system was not conducted.â€
“Kurita?â€
“Yes sir, the system is currently within space controlled by the Draconis Combine.†He said breaking the next reason that his superiors didn’t want to approach the problem.
“Send your findings to my office Major, I promise nothing, I’ll have a look over your data and speak with some of my advisors and we will get back to you.†He said to a grateful looking Major.
- - -
Three weeks passed before Simon Rosberg heard anything back about the intelligence data. However it was not with a direct confirmation that his findings had been correct instead it was with the arrival of a Lieutenant with orders for him to report to the SLS Bremen, a Peter-class Scout Ship. The Star League Defence Force was not just sending a team to Fenwick they were sending Simon Rosberg himself.
Trial of Annihilation
Blackstone, Periphery
25th October 3108
For six days the Clans had fought over the surface of Blackstone engaging the Society and pirate forces that littered the world. Now the Clans had focused their attention on a single fortress that remained half buried under a mountain of rock.
“After the orbital bombardment has silenced the external guns I will employ a Cluster to subdue he survivors within.†Gottgreid Amirault Khan of Clan Hell’s Horses stated looking at Khan Canin Rosse of the Clan’s on Blackstone only the Nova Cats and Hell’s Horses had the available forces to attack.
“I will employ the same orbital bombardment†Rosse admitted he hated its use but the Society had proven to be dishonourable so he had agreed not to oppose its use. “I will then employ a Supernova Binary, the 212th Nova Cat Headhunter to be exact, to take out the facility.â€
“A Supernova Binary it cannot be done!â€
“I will provide you with their codex data†he said placing a portable holo imager on the table. Moments later codex data and profiles of the warriors but Gottgreid Amirault was not interested.
“Khan Rosse you will see your men dead if you attempt this Trial.†He said Canin Rosse actually thought the younger man was concerned for the Nova Cat’s safety a surprising revelation about the leader of another Clan.
“Do you concede this bid?â€
“Aff I doâ€
“Very well then we shall begin†Canin Rosse said triumphantly still confident that his single Supernova could do what the Hell’s Horses Khan claimed it could not. The next two hour consisted of several Clan WarShips bombarding a specific section of the fortress creating a gap in its defences so that the Clan ground forces could move in. In the space between the Khan’s Encampment and the fortress two Stars of BattleMechs, a single star of Battle Armour and several APCs prepared for the ground assault on the fortress.
“What is this Khan Rosse you said two Supernovas what are the APCs there for? Have your kittens got sore feet?â€
“Neg, they are transporting my star of conventional infantry.â€
“Conventional Infantry? An entire Star of them?†The Horse Khan asked surprised all of the Clans had conventional infantry forces but rarely were they deployed with front-line forces. Where a normal Battle Armour star had twenty-five members this formation had five times the number and would be far more capable in the close quarters of the fortress. Khan Amirault looked at the old Nova Cat Khan realizing that he still had several tricks left in him.
“Aff, one hundred and twenty-five troopers the second star of my Supernova. I did offer to show you their codex information.†Rosse suggested as the ground troops began their assault the BattleMechs leading the way behind them the star of Battle Armour followed and flanked the Mechs providing support.
“I do not recognize the Battle Armour suits either†Gottgreid Amirault noted having been thwarted by Khan Rosse once he now realized that the Khan had included yet another element to the unit which he was not aware.
“A new design named the Nemean†he said referring to the four legged Battle Armour suit “an assault chassis with a variety of weapons capable of tackling a wide range of rolls.â€
---
As the Khans discussed the battle below the Nova Cat Supernova moved forwards at pace the BattleMechs began firing all of them were of the dezgra classification of BattleMechs, units the Nova Cats officially did not acknowledge existed, the mixed binary of Spector, Liberator and Exterminator BattleMechs firing their weapons at the fortress doors further weakening them. The bombardment had silenced the Fortress’s guns but still its armoured doors stood under the punishment of the BattleMech’s guns. With the BattleMechs holding the perimeter the Nemeans and infantry moved forwards with the Battle Armour suits providing close in cover two points swarmed over the doors setting up charges across its surface then they all pulled back. After a couple of moments there was a huge explosion which crumpled and shattered the fortress doors. From inside weapons fire began to fire on the Nova Cats.
In his Exterminator Dezgra Star Captain Elijah Lossey targeted the troops inside the facility firing his heavy and extended range lasers and long range missiles. On either side Nova Cat BattleMechs followed the same targeting anything that moved red and opal beams of light burned into enemy targets as missiles exploded around them. Further missiles and pulse lasers joined Elijah’s fire. “Star Commander Jalo move your people in, clear them up.†He commanded the Nemean star then ran forwards breaking formation breaching the front of the facility “Spectors move up give them support the rest of us maintain the perimeter.â€
The quad Battle Armour star moved forwards led by a point of five suits armed with Battle Armour autocannons, light machine guns and Inner Sphere built Firedrake Needlers threatening any of the defenders with a hair of fire. Behind them another point flooded into the area firing short range missiles and lasers as they closed. The Nemean assault had opened the first area of the fortress to the Nova Cats but the facility was still extensive beneath them which was where the Infantry would come into play. While Battle Armour troopers would struggle to move in the tight confines of the facility the Infantry would have no such trouble.
Moving in their points each trooper was equipped with a Mauser IIC Infantry Assault System which had a pulse rifle, grenade launcher and vibroblade bayonet while several troopers also carried a Heavy support laser system. As they moved into the facility the Battle Armour troopers blow open the armoured doors inside the facility allowing them access deeper into the fortress. The bigger corridors were taken by the Battle Armour troopers two points in one corridor and the remaining three in the second corridor each supported by a point of infantry for clearing the smaller rooms while the remaining infantry took the remaining three access corridors.
What followed was four hours of room to room fighting as the Nova Cats eliminated every living thing in the facility. Casualties were high on both sides with seventy-five percent of the Nova Cat conventional infantry killed in the fighting as were ten of the Battle Armoured Nemean pilots though several of their suits would be salvageable. As a final measure to ensure that the facility could not be used by pirate forces the Nova Cats placed the equivalent explosives of ten capital missiles in the lowest level of the facility detonating them once their forces were cleared from the facility reducing it all to rubble.
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Anyway November update is here. If anyone ever wants to hear from somewhere in the Inner Sphere or Periphery (Clan Homeworlds not included) feel free to ask I know I tend to keep to a few storylines but am happy to include other things.
Noble Birth
Hesperus II, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd November 3108
On Hesperus II Vedet Brewer the heir to the Brewer family line is born. To celebrate his birth Vedet’s father announces that the Third Hesperus Guard Regiment will be formed to defend to defend Vedet, the factories of Hesperus II and the Isle of Skye. Although officially part of the Isle of Skye military the Skye commanders are quietly becoming concerned about the forces on Hesperus II which themselves number four regiments which includes highly trained members of what was once the Grey Death Legion.
Border conflict
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
Capellan Confederation
18th November 3108
In a change of tactics the Capellan Confederation target the heart of the District of Oriente assaulting New Delos, Harsefeld and Second Chance each with an elite Warrior House, either a house or mercenary regiment and three previously unseen Mandarin-class Battle-cruisers. The three ships each come in at one million-one hundred-and-fifty thousand tons and their deployment completely surprise every intelligence agency in the Inner Sphere as no-one knew these vessels were even under construction. This appearance of three fully operational WarShips leads many to wonder if the Capellans have another active shipyard facility within their controlled space.
As Capellan troops burn towards their target worlds the three Mandarin’s eliminate all space defenders in each system with the CCSS Sun Wukong employing nuclear tipped capital missiles to eliminate the OPS Ipswich in the Second Chance system while the CCSS Qin Sin Huang employed orbital bombardment on New Delos to completely obliterate the elite Iron Guard from orbit causing hundreds of thousands of civilian deaths in collateral damage as Capellan gunners indiscriminately fire on the planet’s surface causing massive damage, though they hold off on the use of nuclear ordinance. Surviving commanders, and civilian leaders, on New Delos order the remaining Fourth District of Oriente Fusiliers to surrender to stave off further orbital bombardment. Immediately the survivors of the Fourth Fusiliers are rounded up and put in Prisoner of War camps while their BattleMechs and Armoured Vehicles are shipped off planet within days of the planetary surrender.
The Capellan naval strategy in this small campaign shows a return to the naval warfare employed during the early Succession Wars that many feared was never far away. As the Capellan military might gains control of three systems the Maskirovka cause Oriente’s Seventh Militia to retreat from Old Kentucky as they turn to population against the occupying force rendering their position untenable. For decades the Mask had operated several Secret training facilities on the world and when the Free Worlds League captured Old Kentucky the agents had gone to ground leaving a significant Maskirovka presence on the world. These victories by the Capellans effectively sunder the District of Oriente into two distinct halves leading to further questions over if Oriente can survive as an independent state.
Trials of Possession
Quatre Belle Naval Shipyards
Raven Alliance
26th November 3108
Hours ago the fighting in the Quatre Belle system had ended and now in a scene that the Inner Sphere could never imagine seeing on one of the system’s many space stations Star Commodore Kevin Leroux, the commander of the Nova Cat WarShip Eternity, a Vision Seeker-class Battle-cruiser, stood opposite his Snow Raven opponent both were unarmed and had no guards. “You may have destroyed the Karl Devalis and Liger but the battle favoured us and we forced the surrender of your defence force. We will claim the Sword of Orion now.†He said four days before the Nova Cats had arrived in the Quatre Belle system with the entire Karl Devalis Naval Star and declared a Trial of Possession over the Sword of Orion, an under construction Arbitration-class Battleship. After nearly twenty-two hours of battle three Snow Raven WarShips had been destroyed, two more crippled while the Nova Cats had lost the Battle-cruiser Karl Devalis and the Strike Cruiser Liger while all others had been badly damaged.
“The vessel is not even complete†Star Admiral Adam McCorkell the man who had commanded the battle and done well to put together a cobbled together naval star to oppose the Nova Cats.
“Nevertheless we will take possession of the ship, now.†Kevin Leroux pressed
“Your Clan has never possessed Battleship class vessels perhaps we could come to a compromise we can provide you with more Vision Seeker or Splendid-class vessels?â€
“Neg, Star Admiral†Kevin Leroux said crossing the room placing his glass on the side table pouring himself another drink of a local drink. “I understand that you will likely face challenge over the loss of the Sword of Orion but we came here for one of the Arbitrations and that ship is clearly the most complete of the two so we will take possession of it.â€
“You never stipulated which ship…â€
“Neither did you and as victor I can choose what I get.†Leroux said stepping away from table with two glasses in his hands handing one to McCorkell. “Your men and women fought well they have lost no honour today but they faced opponents who desired victory far more.â€
“Which is something which will worry my Khans†he admitted “you will have your WarShip I will ensure she is fuelled and prepared for the journey to your Den.†He said chinking his glass with Kevin Leroux’s glass in an Inner Sphere style salute.
“Seyla†they both recited completing the after action ritual in the traditional Clan manner before drinking their drinks in silence. Nearly a week later the Nova Cats left Quatre Belle with their prize-ship heading for home. After extensive checks the Raven salvage teams decide that the Nova Cat vessel Karl Devalis is the only hulk that is salvageable and move it into one of the repair docks while having the other wreckage moved to be stripped for parts.
Author note
The Mandarin-class Battle-cruiser is JA Baker's Battle-cruiser posted a little while ago on the forums. Akin to the Splendid variants this wasn't added to the production sheet intentionally because I wanted their arrival to be a surprise. The fluff for my AU is different from the ship presented but it at least lets you see her.
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56188.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56188.0)
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Nice update, good to see the Cappies getting a new warship.
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I was wondering when the Capellans were going to get back into the warship game. They seemed to be hurting there for a while.
If anyone ever wants to hear from somewhere in the Inner Sphere or Periphery (Clan Homeworlds not included) feel free to ask
I'd take Hanseatic league, or anything else deep periphery.
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I was wondering when the Capellans were going to get back into the warship game. They seemed to be hurting there for a while.
If anyone ever wants to hear from somewhere in the Inner Sphere or Periphery (Clan Homeworlds not included) feel free to ask
I'd take Hanseatic league, or anything else deep periphery.
We'll visit there in 3109 I've got something special lined up for that, part old, part new
Finally ending 3108 - I'll be putting up unit listings, WarShips and the map but not tonight as I'm shattered just an update.
Defence Line
Ronel, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
8th December 3108
After being forced from Ozawa Colonel Hague, commander of the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry had requested a posting off the front-lines but they had got as far as Ronel before the Draconis Combine had come calling once more only this time they were combined with the Second Robinson Rangers RCT who were far from ready to be forced into retreat. Now Major Ariana Steiner stalked her Warhawk OmniMech along the front-lines targeting an enemy causing heavy damage to an enemy Mauler BattleMech. Ariana was lining up a second shot when an Ajax Assault Tank bearing the colours of the Second Robinson moved out from Ariana’s rear arc and opened fire on the Mauler with its trio of rotary autocannons tearing open the enemy BattleMech puncturing the missile ammunition bays causing a huge explosion which consumed the enemy BattleMech. Ariana watched as the Ajax drove along the line engaging a Grand Dragon BattleMech which had been weakened by defence fire from the Rangers/Cavalry line.
The fighting continued for several hours as the defenders held the line and Ariana lost track of the Ajax but she wasn’t done with the crew. After the battle she stalked around the base looking for the armour crew eventually finding a young man standing near one of the Rangers Ajax tanks he wore the uniform and insignia of a Captain but looked far too young for the rank. “I’m looking for the commander of this vehicle.â€
“That would be me†he answered confidently Ariana looked him up and down he was an attractive young man, perhaps around twenty years old, with brown hair and a well trimmed beard.
“You enjoy stealing other people’s kills?†She asked accusingly
“We are all on the same side, Major, I was simply doing my bit for my nation and my Prince as you do for your regiment and employer†He said she realized that he was trying to get a reaction from her but at the same time making sense fighting the Combine was not some honour duel.
“While I agree we are on the same side I could have taken the BattleMechs arranged against me.†She said annoyed that this tanker didn’t seem to care that he had interfered in a bigger battle. But his attitude made her more curious than anything.
“What’s your name Captain?â€
“Duncan Sandoval†he replied Ariana looked at him more carefully for a moment suddenly seeing the family resemblance between Duncan and his father Tancred Sandoval. She had known the young scion of was a member of the AFFS but she hadn’t realized he had joined the armour corps or that he had been assigned to the Combine border. Suddenly the Ajax and his rank made sense as did him not caring he was becoming involved in a battle between MechWarriors.
“Was this your first real combat against the Combine?†He nodded his reply “you did well, hopefully we will fight together again in the future†she said nodding to him before walking off knowing find that he was watching her walk off.
Science Block C
Wolf Compound 4, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
16th December 3108
Dressed in the simple white jacket and blue trousers of a Clan scientist the middle aged woman entered the office finding the elderly scientist sitting behind the desk. “Scientist Riko†she said greeting him as she entered.
“Scientist Elda†he said looking up from his work as she closed the door behind her “what brings you to my humble office?†He asked keeping up appearances before she turned towards him the door closed. “What do you have for me?†He asked in a different tone as he realized the door was closed.
“Star Colonel Djordje has taken our advice to stand down from his position. Star Captain Daniela is most likely to succeed him as commander of the Eleventh assuming the Lyrans will allow our warriors to retain their arms?†She asked moving to the chair opposite him as she did Riko handed her a piece of paper.
“The Lyran High Command has decided that the Eleventh and Twelfth will be Gallery’s official garrison force.†He said summarizing it “they want the militia forces elsewhere and the planetary administrator is quite happy with our Wolves as his defenders?â€
“And all it took was a pair of Elemental suits†she said a trade she had suggested involving giving the administrator two of their Battle Armour suits for his personal guard force.
“It seems to have worked†Riko noted “three more of the older warriors have chosen to retire as well opening slots for our new cadets.†He said most of the experienced warriors who had been left behind had stayed because in a Clan as large as Clan Wolf they would have been forgotten at a garrison post or eliminated in a suicide mission. At least here they could live out their years, none were a threat to Riko or Elda. While the younger warriors were even less of a threat most knew little to nothing about being members of a true Clan instead they had grown up with stories of the Exiles battles against the Falcons believing that those were the glory days of old and now they were angry because they were no longer part of Clan Wolf perfect for moulding to their needs.
“That makes over half of the Eleventh and most of the Twelfth under our influence.†Elda said “how are our communications…?â€
“There is none of them left within our reach†Riko said glancing towards the floor “the Clans have been very effective in their searches, more effective than we could have expected.â€
“So if we had remained with the Wolves we would have been found out†Elda suggested.
“Aff, it appears soâ€
“Our dream of overcoming the warriors is over.â€
“Neg, our dream of destroying the Clans still burns. Now it comes from somewhere else†Riko suggested seeing the question on Elda’s face “from within the Inner Sphere. It was people who came from the Inner Sphere who brought birth to the Clans so it will be poetic that it will be people from the Inner Sphere who bring the death of the Clans.†He pondered “they have already begun the journey with the destruction of the Smoke Jaguars. The people of this state hate the Clans for the damage they have done†He said rising from his chair “we will continue to nurture this hatred until the Falcons, Wolves and all the others fall.â€
Pirate Raids
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
21st December 3108
Despite the best efforts of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces and the hired mercenary forces pirate raids continue to Carnwath, Izar and Zebeneschamali causing dozens of deaths, including the death of the Zebeneschamali Duke, hundreds of thousands of Kroner in damages to local businesses and civil unrest on each of the three worlds. In each raid the pirates are able to slip away before the defenders are able to fully deploy. These attacks lead to the Third Isle of Skye Guards RCT being deployed to the three worlds with a battalion of BattleMechs and two support regiments to all three worlds in an attempt to stop further attacks but many within the Isle of Skye believe that it isn’t enough eying the Draconis Combine as the most likely culprits for the attacks.
SLS Bremen, Peter-class Scout Ship
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
27th December 3108
Simon Rosberg’s stomach rolled as the SLS Bremen jumped into what they believed was the Fenwick system. Immediately after entry to the system the small Peter-class Scout Ship automatically made a course correction diving away from the jump point. “Report!†Captain Blake Hammond commanded as he recovered from the surprise manoeuvre.
“Automatic computer correction†one of the crewmen reported from her station “micro-meteors heading for the jump point. If we were a JumpShip we’d be caught in that in a couple of hours crippled or worse.â€
“Coincidence?†Hammond pondered looking at Rosberg as he spoke Simon knew that the Captain didn’t believe it “show me the system.†After a couple of moments the Bremen’s scanners showed images of the star system, all twelve planets, six of them gas giants with a massive amount of moons and a huge asteroid/debris ring between the eighth and ninth planets. Hammond turned towards Rosberg “four planets and nothing to write home about. Those Combine scouts were either drunk or hiding something.†He said looking over the initial scan “this is going to take months to search through, months we don’t have.†He said as Rosberg began looking over the scans.
“Ignore the first three planets they are burned rocks too hot to even consider life. The fourth is a gas giant with a few moons but it looks like the heat from the sun makes its orbit unpredictable nothing could survive near it.†He said rapidly looking through the data hoping to save something from this mission. Four is possible but Five and Six might be better candidates they are just outside the habitation zone but both are giants that produce heat, hell if we came back in a couple of hundred thousand years we might find a second sun†he said looking at the data. “Beyond Seven looks frozen but internal heat from those Giants could be putting out enough heat to support life on a couple of their moons.â€
“Right we’ll give one, two and three the once over as we flyby. We’ll spend a couple of days at four and the rest between five and six. If there’s nothing by Six I’m calling it quits Major.â€
“Understood Captain†Simon Rosberg said continuing to look at the data he had no idea how the Combine scouts could have gotten things so wrong… and how no-one else had come across this system. Something wasn’t wrong with Fenwick and he planned on finding out what it was and he had nine days before they reached planet four to refine his search perimeters.
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I forgot to mention before the last update CryHavoc I've got an idea for that it'll appear mid-late 3109.
Before this update I want to thank JA Baker for letting me play with Fenwick it was originally his creation and this version of the small Duchy is based off of one of his suggestions.
New Year’s Party
New Bealton, Odessa
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
1st January 3109
Despite being on assignment every now and then everyone needed a break and New Years was the perfect time for it. Major Morgan Christifori and his unit were stood down from combat assignments and the whole unit were enjoying a party in the premium club in the capital city of Odessa it was nice to relax and enjoy the night as he danced a beautiful woman began dancing near him she had a well tanned and toned body, wore a gold and black dress and brown hair with blonde highlights he couldn’t quite help but look at her and gravitate towards her.
As 3109 began the two danced and enjoyed their night Morgan discovered her name was Marika Danko, a customs and imports officer for Odessa’s spaceport, and couldn’t help but remain near her. When they woke in the morning in Marika’s apartment Morgan woke to deployment orders which would take him to Eaglesham on the Lyran Commonwealth/Draconis Combine border the new couple’s time cut short by duty.
Family Dinner
Buckwell Family Estate, Washburn
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
2nd January 3109
As a couple was being torn apart by duty another was trying to put duty aside and mend something that had been broken. Sitting opposite his wife Joseph Marik really wasn’t looking at the meal in front of him instead he was looking at his wife Lucy Marik she was as beautiful as the day he had met her although he could still tell she was angry with him. “This is nice†he said trying to break the ice he’d arrived the day before but this was their first meeting.
“Eat your food before it gets cold†Lucy said continuing to eat. Joseph decided to accept that they were together and call it a win and began to eat. “You didn’t take Zach with you?â€
“I didn’t think it would be appropriate…â€
“Appropriate to be with the rest of his family†Lucy snapped “I’m still his mother Joe.â€
“I didn’t think it would be appropriate†he repeated “because the scientists are preparing him for his operation.†He said this time he continued to eat forcing her to ask further questions and take an interest in their son.
“What operation?†She demanded
“The doctors who fitted the artificial heart stated that it would not last him long before long he would be reliant on external sources to keep him alive.†He explained seeing her disgust “so I contacted Clan Sea Fox and made a deal.â€
“What sort of deal?†She asked her food forgotten as she realized her husband had not only taken steps to artificially keep their son alive but now he had made a deal with the Clan devils to keep him alive.
“They have grown him a new heart, one that lacks the natural imperfections, it is a long and dangerous operation but he is strong and will pull through.†He stated as the doors crept open and in entered six year old Anson Marik.
“Father!†He shouted running into the room moments later his younger sister Ruth followed by Malachi and finally three year old Aaron who ran into Joseph’s open arms sweeping him up off the ground.
“I needed this†Joseph said over the children’s excited questions on seeing their father.
“So did they†Lucy admitted
“Come back to Marik†he said pleading with her to unite their family.
“Perhaps after Zach’s procedure†she suggested “stay tonight?†She asked him quietly as the children continued to jump around excited that their father was there with them.
“Of course I will†he said pulling his wife into a close hug their closeness tonight giving him a little hope that they were heading in the right direction.
Unfortunately elsewhere things were not heading in the right direction as news filtered through that the District of Oriente had struck back at the Capellan Confederation with its full force going on the offensive Oriente had struck at the systems of Ipswich, Anegasaki, Shuen Wan and Pella II employing nuclear weapons in all four to completely obliterate the CCSS Chancellor’s Sword in the Pella II system, to heavily damage the CCSS Chancellor’s Pride in the Ipswich, forcing its withdrawal, and to scour the surface of Ipswich system of all life including the Ninth Capellan Armoured Cavalry, the Sixteenth and Eighteenth Capellan Lancers units. Fighting continues between the Ducal Guard and the Capellan Confederation defenders on Pella II as both sides refuse to employ weapons of mass destruction, unfortunately now Pandora’s Box had been opened few could predict where the madness would end. On Terra, Oriente and Sian diplomats scramble to try and bring the two nations back from the brink but with hundreds of thousands of deaths on Ipswich neither side with to act diplomatically. On Atreus the Free Worlds League Parliament convene an emergency meeting with Captain-General Joseph Marik summoned to explain why he had not controlled Oriente’s use of weapons of mass destruction in direct violation of the Ares Conventions, which all Star League states continued to abide by.
System Survey Mission, SLS Bremen
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
5th January 3109
The SLS Bremen had made steady progress through the Fenwick system passing by the first second and third planets of the system making long range scans finding nothing to spark their interest. The fourth planet was of more interest a gas giant with multiple moons the Bremen had planned to spend a couple of days around the planet so Major Simon Rosberg made a slow entry into the command bridge expecting the ship to be making standard survey mission however his arrival showed a ship preparing for additional manoeuvres “Captain?†He said glancing at Captain Blake Hammond who sat near the centre of the compact bridge.
“We detected an artificial metal signature from the asteroid field and the planets beyond†he said “I’ve decided to skip four and head deeper into the system we’ll make scans of the moons as we pass but none appear to have an atmosphere.â€
“Just means more time for the other planets†he noted heading over to one of the consoles looking at some of the data “another three days until five†he noted as the Bremen’s main drives kicked in moving them away from the planet. As they moved into open space there was suddenly a huge emergence wave in the system as a ship completed a jump. “That isn’t possible†he whispered stunned at what the Bremen’s systems were telling him. As the ship righted itself in space only a few thousand kilometres away was a one thousand six hundred metre long, million tonne behemoth that was supposed to be extinct. Glancing around the bridge Simon realized in his confusion he had missed the opening communications between the massive WarShip and the Bremen and looked at Captain Hammond.
“I don’t know how but it’s the SLS Cavalier, a Stefan Amaris-class Battleship, and we are intruders into the domain of the Grand Duchy of Fenwick.†He explained looking at Rosberg “we are to follow them to their base of operations or be destroyed.â€
“That isn’t possible there were only two of those ships commissioned into the SLDF Fleet during the Civil War and both of them were destroyed during the Liberation of the Terran Hegemony!†Simon Rosberg replied looking at the Captain “all of those ships were destroyed none salvaged.â€
“Well this one was and as far as they are concerned this is the last Star League Defence Force and we are intruders. We don’t have an option here, Major.â€
“An option†Rosberg repeated “Captain, we have an opportunity and we need to make the most of it. Pass among the crew if anyone has any contact with these people best behaviour. I’m taking command of the mission†he said making it clear to Captain Hammond what was happening before he had been an observer, and perhaps a minor nuisance, now however with contact with the natives Simon wanted to make sure that everything went well.
“Yes sir†Captain Blake Hammond replied annoyed at the sudden change in his passenger but not completely surprised they were the sole representatives of the new SLDF in this system and they needed to make the best first impression.
Reception Area, Grand Duchy of Fenwick
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
11th January 3109
The Stefan Amaris-class Battleship Cavalier had escorted them past the fifth planet’s orbit and into orbit of the sixth planet without issue with the Bremen causing them no trouble. Had the Bremen wished to escape there had been plenty opportunity instead they had coasted alongside the massive Battleship until they reached the sixth planet. There, once the Bremen was in the gravity well, they were commanded to send a small craft to meet a group of aerospace fighters.
Major Simon Rosberg had remembered seeing the classic Star League Rapier RPR-100b waiting for his small craft. The aerospace fighter squadron had escorted them on a complex course past several of the moons moving closer and closer to the big orange gas giant. Finally they had entered the orbit of a large moon which was covered in beautiful oceans and green trees. Despite being well out of the system’s habitation zone the moon was kept warm by the heat coming from the gas giant. They had been escorted by the aerospace fighters down through the atmosphere towards a small city below nestled in and around the forests that blanketed the world. Rosberg could only think that the radiation from the planet and the forest cover had hidden the moon but he had no idea how the Combine scouts had missed this planet. From the small craft he was escorted from the small spaceport to a reception area nearby where he had waited. Captain Hammond had offered to send down an escort but the Bremen was a small craft and not designed to send crewmen for ground excursions the small craft was normally for collecting supplies and transferring crewmen but not today. Instead Simon Rosberg stood waiting patiently in the well equipped waiting room with a door at either side of the room and a window looking into the forest that surrounded the spaceport facility. The door behind him opened and Simon turned to look seeing a middle aged man in a modified Star League Defence Force General’s uniform. “I am Field Marshal Galen Prescott it has been many years but I welcome you to the Grand Duchy of Fenwick.â€
“Major Simon Rosberg of the Star League Defence Force†he replied looking at the man.
“So many years†he whispered as if he had spoken to the Star League in person before despite the long years of isolation for the people of Fenwick. “So how can we be assistance?â€
“I was sent to make contact with your after all these years and access the condition here at Fenwick.â€
“Sent by the Commanding-General him/herself I take it?†Prescott asked continuing to fish for information.
“Not quite†he admitted “the leader of the Star League Protectorate Duke Bannister Cameron.â€
“The Star League Protectorate… and a living Cameron… after all these years†he repeated slowly before drawing his laser pistol side arm pointing it at Rosberg “do you think we are backward idiots?†He demanded “your ship is an impressive piece of technology and your uniform a good replica but the Star League fell after the murder of the Cameron family by Amaris, Kerensky left the Inner Sphere with the Star League army and years of war followed. People forgot about us but we didn’t forget about the Inner Sphere we’ve come across many like you ‘Major’ and we’ll be ready for many more.†He said as two guards entered the room “for now you and your crew will be our guests until we decide what to do with you.â€
“Field Marshal please I am a Major in the reformed Star League Defence Force!†Rosberg protested as the two guards took an arm each and began to drag him out “I was sent to re-establish contact with you and offer you a place within the Protected Planets!†He shouted as the door slid closed behind him. From the other side of the room and two women entered one elderly wearing an elaborate red and blue gown while the other wore a far simpler white dress her dark hair tied up in a single ponytail.
“Grand Duchess Gloriana†Prescott said saluting her as she entered.
“What do you think of him Field Marshal?â€
“He has spirit my lady, but then so did the others that have come to Fenwick, we will find out the truth.â€
“Do you think it is possible he is telling the truth?†The younger woman asked looking past Prescott at the now closed door.
“I do not see how it could be possible Lady Emily the last we heard from the greater Inner Sphere was that a conflict known as the Fourth Succession War had just begun. What force would make the families of the Inner Sphere come together to reform the League without the Cameron family, and the Hegemony, to act as a counter balance.
“But he spoke of a Cameron†Emily protested
“Unfortunately, my daughter, I have to agree with the Field Marshal†Gloriana said looking at the younger woman. “Amaris was quite effective at wiping out the Cameron family the records we have back to those days are quite clear.†She said looking out the window for a moment “Field Marshal Prescott I trust that your people will go over their ship and its crew with a fine toothcomb. It has been many years since we have had visitors and we need to discover if they can become productive members of this society or if we will have to section them.â€
“Section?†Emily said suddenly stunned looking at her mother.
“If they are a threat to us then we will have no option†Gloriana Fenwick replied “they will be well cared for and they will serve us all.â€
“A life of hard labour on the asteroids is not well cared for!†Emily Fenwick snapped back at her mother she did not agree with the practice of “Sectioning†prisoners to hard labour as punishment.
“The law is quite clear†Gloriana said sternly “I didn’t make the rules but I will follow them.â€
“You have the power to change…â€
“Enough†the elder Fenwick finally said to the side Field Marshal Prescott stood uncomfortably as the family members disagreed “it is what it is Emily you will understand when it is your turn to rule you will understand sacrifices must be made to maintain our way of living and complete the tasks that were left for us.â€
“But if the Star League have returned…â€
“I said enough†Gloriana said this time the anger gone replaced with a calm resolve that indicated her decision was made on the matter and would not be changed today.
Council Chambers
City of Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Territory, Inner Sphere
20th January 3109
Even as the Fox’s Whelps Khanate of Clan Sea Fox claimed control over the newly completed Halcyon-class Cruiser Triad above Tukayyid at the Unity Shipyards Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward stalked around the chambers below on Tukayyid. “We need more resources, Star Colonel†he said looking at one of his subordinates in the Ebon Guard.
“The Clans give Tukayyid what it requires they support its continued development.â€
“Not enough†Ward said “we are Clan are we not Star Colonel Diego Binetti?â€
“Aff, but we are and we have been tasked with defending Tukayyid and now Solaris.†Binetti replied he was originally from Clan Jade Falcon but was heading towards the end of his career, like many others who were part of the Ebon Guard, he had not shown the passion, skill, ambition or a combination of the three to succeed as a Falcon and been relegated to the Ebon Guard. In some ways Thomas Ward felt sorry for the man but in other ways the Falcon’s loss was his gain.
“We were not born to defend†Thomas Ward complained
“We do not have much choice.â€
“We do not? We have ships, we have weapons of war and warriors why should we not strike out?†Ward asked “the Clans do not want to give us all we need then we trial for it.†He stated “pick your people Star Colonel you leave for Altenmarkt the Bears are waiting for you.†He commanded a few hours later the Sixth Ebon Guard Cluster left Tukayyid for a Trial of Possession against the Bears. By the end of January the Ninth and Tenth Ebon Guard Clusters have also struck targets in Sea Fox and Jade Falcon territory angering the other Clans but also increasing all of the Clan’s readiness.
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I'm going to post February too. I'll note that using the Stefan Amaris was originally JA Baker's idea though I've developed it a bit more. We'll return there soon
Meeting of Parliament, District Leader Meeting
Atreus City, Atreus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
5th February 3109
For the last eighteen hours the Free Worlds League Parliament had argued on the world of Atreus over the actions of the District of Oriente during their conflict with the Capellan Confederation and still a consensus had not been reached. The six District leaders had withdrawn from the main Paliament meeting room even as representatives continued to argue over the issues before them. Seated around a long table the six leaders sat two on one side and two opposite while Captain-General Joseph Marik sat at one end of the table and Robert Brett-Marik at the other end.
“Don’t you see Oriente has shown us the way?†Duke Lester Cameron-Jones asked looking around “he has shown the Capellans that we will not hold back and allow them to take our worlds.†He said pointing across at Duke Jonas Halas “a line has been drawn in the sand if the Capellans destroy one of our cities we will destroy one of their systems if they destroy one of our worlds we will destroy three of them…â€
“Are you mad?†Prime Minister Abraham Ledford of Bowang asked looking at the other man “have you never read a word of history? The First and Second Succession War approached war like you suggest†he explained rising to his feet to look Lester Cameron-Jones in the face “BILLIONS died in those conflicts because ‘noble’ lords decided that the victims homes would make a good battleground.†He said turning to look at the Captain-General “I plead with Captain-General do not support these actions.†He said sitting back down angering Lester Cameron-Jones with his interruption before Joseph Marik could speak Duke Robert Brett-Marik spoke.
“I too feel I must agree with the Prime Minister†he said remaining seated “total war is not the answer.â€
“As do I†Joseph said looking at Jonas Halas “the use of weapons of mass destruction against civilian targets on Ipswich was unnecessary.†He said casting his vote “we do not need to see the genesis of another Succession War started here not in my League.â€
“Your League until another replaces you†Halas commented irritated at Joseph’s condemnation of his peoples actions.
“Certainly not by you†Joseph Marik snapped back looking at Halas who looked surprised by the venom in Joseph’s voice “what? Do you really expect me to believe that you did not command the use of nuclear weapons?†He demanded putting Halas on the defence.
“I… was not aware of the…†the Oriente leader stammered out.
“So you are saying as their District Leader and their immediate military commander that you were not completely aware that they had weapons of mass destruction in the possession? Or that you were not aware that your commanders were willing to use such weapons?†Joseph Marik asked going on the offensive sensing Halas weakness “then perhaps I should call on parliament to put more stringent controls on Oriente.†He threatened before turning on Lester Cameron-Jones “and you, you are ready for Capellan retribution with worlds on their border? Are you ready to explain to people that you supported a police that saw billions of deaths including members of their own family?†He demanded looking at the Regulan leader.
“We need to put forward a united front†Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones finally said speaking up the Lesnovo leader having remained silent until now.
“I agree†Joseph Marik said “which is why I once again call for a united defence force under the command of this Parliament and under the authority of the Captain-General. Together we can face down our opponents and react immediately to threats unlike now where we have to debate the choices that are made.â€
“The office of Captain-General needs no further power.†Lester Cameron-Jones said disagreeing with Joseph’s assessment as much as he desired to be the next Captain-General in the elections due later that year but he did not think a Federal Defence Force was an answer. Before anyone else could speak an aide entered handing Joseph a piece of paper which the Captain-General read before hanging his head.
“What is it?†Abraham Ledford asked breaking the silence in the room.
“The Capellan Confederation has responded to Oriente’s attack on Ipswich.†He said “the system of Ohransen has been burned by nuclear fire.†He said stunning the other leaders “Capellan has also been seen on Wazan, Pacht and Corey.†He announced looking between Lester and Jonas “you wanted total war? Now you have it. I am needed in command.†He said walking out of the room leaving the others.
Within hours of Ohransen’s destruction and the attacks on Wazan, Pacht and Corey the worlds of Krybacken and Asuncion request Star League Defence Force protection and are granted such protection by the end of February with SLDF ground and naval forces deployed into both systems. District of Oriente forces continue to resist Capellan forces in several systems but this does not stop units belonging to the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns and mercenary commands land on Second Try and Palos after being invited to the planets by planetary leaders afraid of being caught up in the Oriente/Capellan conflict. While there is no official word from First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion’s office Commanding-General Victor Focht of the Star League Defence Force calls for cooler heads between the two nations while also moving several heavy assets into the area including the Elite First Royal Regimental Brigade, the Second Kearny Regimental Brigade, the super-carrier Enterprise and the Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser Invincible.
Planetary Administrator’s Office
Gallery, New Stockholm
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
17th February 3109
As the aides opened the Administrator’s office Scientist Riko was quite pleased with himself Star Colonel Daniela had been more than happy to allow him to take her place and represent what remained of the Mountain Wolves on Gallery to the Planetary Administrator. Daniela was an excellent warrior and likely she would make a good commander of the remaining warrior caste, with his guidance, but with her replacing Star Colonel Djordje she had inherited the previous Star Colonel’s administration tasks as well which was keeping the young woman quite busy. Still dressed in the white coat and blue trousers of his caste he approached Administrator Marta Kamen a middle-aged woman with brown hair, tied up, and dark rimmed glasses. She wore a navy suit with a skirt and white shirt formal but at the same time relaxed. “You are not Colonel Djordje.†She said he noted she had dropped the Clan rank and decided that for today at least he’d be better to do the same.
“Colonel Djordje has chosen to retire, Colonel Daniela has taken over from her†he explained “my name is Riko Danvers, I am Scientist General of our people†he explained.
“Very nice to meet you†she said extending her hand which Riko gently shook before taking her offer “Duke Robert Lunius of Halfway asked me to assess what your people could still bring to the Lyran Commonwealth which is why I wished to speak to your Colonel.â€
“Unfortunately our military strength is clear to be seen. Khan Kell’s misguided decision to take our Clankin out of the Commonwealth has stripped our people to the bone. However I think there is more that we can do for the Commonwealth than with military force.â€
“Oh yes?†Kamen asked
“Aff my Khan…†he said before looking away from her embarrassed “sorry, I mean Administrator†he said seeing out of the corner of his eye a small smile, she liked that authority he had given her, “my people can help staff factories and we still have active research and development of weapons and a developed training regime.†He said producing some paperwork for Kamen who took it and began sifting through the papers. “We have a population of people who wish to work as to make Gallery a better place. And our research into bio-warfare is quite developed.†He said
“You have been developing a weapon that could target specific gene-lines?†She said shocked by what she was reading on the papers.
“It is not actually a weapon†he said attempting to cover the development perhaps the Lyrans were not ready for such things. “We designed to help the Clan iron-womb program, to clear up the Wolves breading program, but it could be developed Khan Kell pulled the funding believing that such a thing could be used…â€
“As a weapon of mass destruction…†she whispered “the Clans have such weapons.â€
“Aff, they have the means but would not employ them as such.†He reported sensing that she did not like how this was going “we could redevelop this with some support to counter anything that was developed to be used against the ruling line.†He suggested “we also have an extensive training program and room for additional personnel†he said gaining her attention “there are several refugees who have fled the Clans, children who have been shipped here because their parents are missing or dead we could house and teach them.†He suggested making a different approach if he couldn’t get the funding and supplies then having the additional personnel could allow for other developments.
“So you would bring people from out with your own in?â€
“We are all one people, Administrator; I wish to contribute to improving Gallery and the Commonwealth.†He said seeing that Marta Kamen liked the sound of that. “We wish to show this nation that we appreciate what this nation has done for us and we wish to give something back.†He said continuing as Kamen stood up Riko did not know the protocol but stood up as well.
“Thank you for your time, Scientist General, I appreciate your assistance and look forward to working with you and your people to make Gallery great again.†Riko nodded shaking her hand again before realizing that his short audience was over. As he left the room he realized that he wanted to come back to this office and the other officers of power in the Commonwealth in the future.
Promenade, Clan Hall
Clan Capitol City, Clan Homeworld
Deep Periphery
22nd February 3109
It had taken more than ten months but Star Colonel Alex Lassenem had finally arrived on the Clan Homeworld. After the battle for the Broadcast Tower his remaining forces had been whittled down to a combined-arms Binary so instead of wasting what warriors he had Alex had called for an extraction from the planet. It had taken nearly a month but the Clan had finally come and his people had been pulled back to Fasa. Once there anger had overcome Alex and had confronted and defeated Galaxy Commander Karen Schmitt in an unaugmented Circle of Equals as was his right as a Clan warrior. Following his victory Karen Schmitt had admitted that the command had come from the Homeworld for the operation on Babylon to be abandoned as a lost cause. With his victory still new Alex had demanded that he and his Osteon be transported to the Homeworld immediately which turned out to be a more difficult proposition than he’d expected. From Fasa he had been put on a JumpShip towards the Kerensky Cluster and after travelling in an indirect route through eight systems he had finally arrived on the Homeworld.
Now Alex Lassenem stood on a world untouched by the Society looking up at the grandiose Clan Hall built in the centre of the capital it resembled the one on Strana Mechty. According to what Alex had heard the system had been discovered in the 3060s and kept hidden from Clan society as a refugee for if the Clan was pushed to the edge. When that edge had come the Clan had pulled in on itself concentrating on the worlds of this system developing them into places where they could rebuild. As the Society had ravaged the Homeworld Clans they had remained hidden but active deploying combat units to the other worlds and assisting Clan forces and civilians escape the Society’s occupation. While he was not completely convinced by the Clan’s strategy he couldn’t argue against their achievements where all other Clans had fallen this still stood, where others escaped to the Inner Sphere his Clan remained fighting for what they believed was theirs.
Heading up the Promenade steps Alex straightened his dress uniform a green jacket and trousers with a black undershirt. As was their custom only his MechWarrior Branch badge and Rank insignia adorned his uniform even the Clan insignia was missing according to the “Old Khan†only once they permanently recaptured Strana Mechty could warriors wear the Clan insignia and be proud. As he reached to top of the stairs Alex Lassenem stopped and stood stunned looking at the Clan flags in front of the Hall there were twenty… one representing each of the original Clans formed by Nicholas Kerensky among them one for the Not-Named Clan. The Not Named Clan’s flag had not flown over any Clan World since they were annihilated soon after the formation of Clans. Regaining his composure Alex looked at the flags once more before heading into Clan Hall.
Inside the air conditioned reception area a young female warrior wearing a MechWarrior with Hispanic features and dark hair approached “Star Colonel Alex Lassenem, welcome to the Clan Hall, I am the Khan’s aide Star Commander Santana Ebon the Khan is waiting for you.†She said greeting him before turning heading away Alex Lassenem stood there for a moment first the Not Named’s flag flies over a Clan world and now warriors bearing their names stand inside a Clan Hall? As he followed the young woman through the halls he could feel his anger growing the Old Khan had twisted Nicholas Kerensky’s vision of the Clans.
“Star Colonel Alex Lassenem to see you Khan Keller†Santana Ebon said announcing Alex’s arrival before leaving the room. Khan Katja Keller was more than eighty years old a small diminutive woman who had surprised or outwitted each of her opponents through the years allowing each of them to believe her small size meant she was not a threat. Even now looking at her walk with the assistance of a cane Alex sensed she was still a threat.
“My Khan†he said respectfully despite the anger he felt at present first his unit was abandoned on Babylon, then Laurel passed sacrificing herself to get the word of Michael Gibson’s death, then he had learned the Not Named’s flag and name had risen from its long dead ashes.
“You sound annoyed Star Colonel†she said looking him up and down obviously picking up on the anger in his voice despite his best efforts. “Speak your mind†she said leaning back on her office table.
“Aff, Khan†he said the respect was gone from his voice and he nearly spat the title. “You abandoned my unit on Babylon to die. You sent us to eliminate Michael Gibson and yet when you had the opportunity to support our efforts and complete our mission you pulled back and left us!†He said angrily venting his anger on the old woman but never closing within striking distance.
“Aff, I did†she admitted stunning him “and you as a Clan warrior continued on with the determination that I would expect.†She said standing back up “I ordered you into a bad position and the intelligence you gathered proved that Michael Gibson was off Tamaron along with the Absolute Truth and her escorts. This information opened up an opportunity for us to liberate nearly three hundred men, women and children from enforced labour on Tamaron and assault their OmniMech Production facility.†She explained “the Society likes to pretend there have enough resources to protect everything in the Homeworlds but they do not.â€
“You sent us on a mission under false pretences†Alex said still angry.
“Neg, if Tameron was still was still under guard we would have supported you. I simply picked the more appropriate target for our limited resources.†She said calmly her calm answer making Alex even more angry but she didn’t stop instead turning on Alex “so you as a Clan Warrior used what resources you had and executed your mission regardless of support. Not only eliminating Alex Gibson but also exposing their attempt to cover that fact us.†She said going over Alex’s successes “than as a loyal member of your Clan and not wanting to see your people slaughtered for their actions on Babylon you called for an extraction from that world which we complied with.†She said now showing that their Clan had not completely abandoned his unit. “You completed you objectives with the resources you had in hand and in a manner that has impressed many within our Clan but I think perhaps it was your reaction to your successes on Babylon that surprised most and impressed me the most.†She said stepping closer to him “instead of accepting your place as one cog in this war machine you argued that you should not have been treated like you were. You stepped up to Karen Schmitt on Fasa defeating her in single combat but seeing her worth to our Clan you left her alive.†Katja Keller said “to me that shows a warrior who is not content with only taking commands but one who wishes to be making the decisions going forwards Quiaff?â€
“Aff, my Khan†Alex replied finding his anger had dimmed facing the Old Khan but still there were things that bothered him. “I wish to serve my Clan in the best way I can†he said “but I have questions.â€
“I am not surprised this is after all your first time on this world.†She said turning back to her desk. Alex had been born on Hellgate in a refugee camp only to be rescued by Mike Lassenem’s Fourteenth and brought to the Clan’s training halls on Fasa. “Ask your questions Star Colonel.†She commanded moving across the room indicating for Alex to take a seat in front of her which he slowly did.
“I saw the flags outside and your aide’s name…†He said refusing to say the Not-Named Clan’s name as he sat.
“The Wolverines?†She asked turning around the table taking her own seat Alex nodded his answer too shocked that someone spoken their name out loud. Katja Keller chuckled looking at Alex “do you know what one of the Society’s first tactics was when they made their move across the Homeworlds?†She asked Alex shook his head “they had their scientists imbedded with the Clans to corrupt dozens of genetic legacies to weaken them to a point where our genetic pools could not individually sustain us.†She explained “the Serpents came together exactly for this reason the individual Clans could not operate alone their genetic lines were so corrupted that that over time the term bloodnamed would no longer matter.â€
“Each Khan has a responsibility to protect the genetic legacy of their Clan whatever way they can.†Alex recited knowing the words well but it still didn’t explain why the Not-Named names had been reborn.
“When the rest of our Clan was driven from the Homeworlds and into the periphery I knew what we had here could not sustain our Clan’s Bloodlines. I introduced warriors from other Clans bringing their legacies into our Clan in an effort to build it but that was not enough. I could have created new legacies from freeborns but it would mean abandoning our past for our future. So we raided the Genetic Repository on Strana Mechty†she explained surprising Alex she saw the surprise and nodded “yes we did that when you were but a child†she explained beginning the story “the Society fought hard that day but eventually we secured the Grand Council and its Halls it was a great day but we knew we would never hold it. I sent people below and when they got to the vaults below they discovered the only legacies that had not been corrupted by the Society were those locked in the Not Named’s archive.†She explained “they wanted to shame us they wanted to show that only by breaking our oath to the Founder could we survive so we did.†She said defiantly “I could not use their names and not speak their name so we have accepted that the Wolverines are part of our history, our present and our future but they are not our Clan. We are the Blood Spirits and we will remain standing through all adversity…â€
“For the Cause†Alex said reciting the words to complete the phrase known by all members of their Clan. He wasn’t completely convinced by the Khan’s argument but he knew the Society wanted to break the Clans genetically as well as physically.
“Now for your future†she said “Star Colonel Jorgennson has done well in commanding the Fourteenth in your absence and was a very effective commander on Tamaron.â€
“Matt knows what he is doing†Alex admitted he’d known he would be giving up the Fourteenth when he accepted the mission on Babylon.
“And your performance on Babylon proves that you are worth more than a Cluster commander.†She said Alex was glad to hear that their sacrifices on Babylon had proven something “and with that I wish to make you the commander of our Watch forces.†She said “you appear to have a knack for acting with little need of direction and with minimal resources. You will answer directly to me and you will help us take the fight from Colleen to the farthest reaches of the Society’s influence. What do you say?†She asked standing looking at him.
“For the Cause†Alex said standing up accepting the position.
“For the Cause†Khan Katja Keller repeated shaking Alex’s hand.
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Wrangler: they are survivalists it made sense to me for the Spirits to be the suborn ones who held on. Haven and Colleen made for a perfect hiding spot since in this only the Spirits ever got there.
JA Baker: I appreciate the idea and the use of the Duchy.
Truetanker: the answer to that will come in the future
marauder: glad you liked
Ghost Bear Checkpoint 14
Agamemnon, Market Square
Orestes, Rasalhague Dominion
5th March 3109
Across the busy market square Kathleen Schaefer moved through the crowds heading for the Ghost Bear checkpoint watching the Clan warriors tidy up their equipment. The Bears had become part of this community for years and a retired old woman like Kathleen Schaefer was quite attached to them. “Is something happening Star Commander Harris?†She asked seeing the checkpoint’s commander.
“Mrs Schaefer it’s good to see you†the old warrior said turning towards one of the other warriors “put the additional equipment in the Prime Mover we’re not leaving anything we don’t need to.â€
“What’s happening here Harris? Have you all been reassigned? I brought those cookies that you like.â€
“Thank you Mrs Schaefer I assure you I’ll make sure everyone gets some on the fight out.†He said the elderly Orestes woman looked shocked. “Did you hear about the arrival of the Coyotes yesterday?†She nodded “they fought and defeated the First Tyr Assault Cluster in a Trial of Possession.†He explained Kathleen Schaefer nodded her understanding though Harris was unsure if she truly understood “that means the Coyotes will be taking control over this planet, at least for now, we’ve been ordered to pull out.â€
“The Coyotes? Will they like my cookies?†She asked watching as the last couple of Bears mounted up on their vehicles and began to move out Harris took one last look at the elderly civilian and offered a smile before also jumping up on the transport vehicle.
With Grumlum and Orestes in Coyote hands the Rasalhague Dominion relocates its provincial capital to Altenmarkt while military units are reassigned to new base worlds. For their part the citizens of the two systems adapt to the new rule of Clan Coyote.
First Lord’s Announcement
Unity City, Terra
Star League Protectorate
13th March 3109
In a non-descript office First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion sat in front of the Tri-Vid camera and looked into it. “I am Victor Steiner-Davion†he began ensuring everyone knew exactly who was making this message “I have served for many years as First Prince of the Federated Suns. Many of you have seen me as your enemy; however, today I speak to you as First Lord of the Star League Defence Force. Recently there have been violations of the Ares Accords with weapons of mass destruction and orbital bombardment returning to our battlefields.†He said referring to the Oriente/Capellan Confederation border conflict “technology has improved over the last few years and these weapons are part of our lives we have to live with them. I will not stand by and watch these weapons destroy innocent lives unnecessarily. Today I have signed orders for the Star League Defence Force to oppose any force willing to employ such weapons against civilian targets.†He said pausing for a moment “to this end I have deployed Special Forces personnel and the Fourth WarShip squadron to the Oriente/Confederation border. These forces will observe and stop any unit that has used or plans to use weapons of mass destruction to this end I can announce that Star League Defence Force personnel have detained Sang-shao Ju Kun on Park Place and confiscated the nuclear weapons they were preparing to use on that world. We will not stop the nations of the Inner Sphere fighting that is not the Star League Defence Forces’ purpose; we will however make it difficult for you to wage total war.â€
***
Within hours of Victor Steiner-Davion’s announcement and reports of Star League Defence Forces being deployed within the Free Worlds League Capellan Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao made a rare public announcement of his own. “We do not wish to see mass casualties during conflicts with our neighbours.†He said beginning “however the Capellan Confederation will not be bullied by the sham Star League which has shown itself time and again to be simply a pawn of House Steiner-Davion.†He said smiling broadly “I know many of you will likely try to ridicule me for the use of this term but there can be little denying that the Star League serves House Davion and House Steiner over all others. I call for other nations to throw off the Star League’s yoke and return to their own rule. The worlds claimed by the Star League belong to the houses of the Inner Sphere as they have been since the fall of the Terran Hegemony.†He said angrily “the Star League Defence Force’s actions on Park Place are taken as a Declaration of War against the Capellan Confederation.†He said his eyes remaining focused on the Tri-Vid camera “any Star League Defence Force unit seen in territory claimed by the Capellan Confederation will be fire upon.†He warned finally signing off.
Although SLDF actions in the Park Place system put off the Capellan invasion of the system they are unable to stop the Capellans reinforcing their positions on Wazan, Pacht and Corey further bringing them into the Capellans grasp as Oriente troops attempt to regroup after being struck from multiple directions by the Capellans.
Interrogation Room
Fenwick City, Fenwick
Duchy of Fenwick
22nd March 3109
Despite several weeks of questioning Major Simon Rosberg did not feel like he had been mistreated by the secretive people of Fenwick. Even now he sat in a well lit door with windows showing at least some of the forests around them. Across from him sat his ‘interrogator’ who certainly wasn’t a torture specialist instead Captain Curtis Kinsey lounged in his chair as he went through the same papers a two coffee’s sitting on the table between them. Simon decided that despite his interrogator’s laid back attitude they weren’t getting anywhere and instead it was his turn to try and direct the conversation.
“Curtis, can I ask you something officer to officer?†He asked opening the conversation deciding to make sure Kinsey acknowledged he was an officer the older man nodded – win one. “Are you learning anything new from these daily meetings?â€
“I learn a little bit every day, Simon, you know that?â€
“Of course, but if I may?†Again Kinsey nodded his agreement “I haven’t withheld any non-classified data. I haven’t put up any resistance can’t you at least see I mean you no harm.â€
“In your present form no you do not†Curtis Kinsey said “but inside you I see a man that could do me and my people great harm if your put your mind to it.†He said making his beliefs known.
“Exactly†Simon Rosberg said knowing he was on the right track “I could, if I wanted to, cause this system great harm.†He said standing up walking around the room Curtis Kinsey remained seated at ease with the other man. “If I wanted I could have sneaked into this system and you would have never known I was here.â€
“And how would you have done that?†Kinsey asked continuing to fish for information Rosberg knew.
“It doesn’t matter†he answered dodging the question he had no intention of fouling up anyone else that followed the Bremen here. “If I had known for certain you were here, as you have inferred many times, you would not have detected the Bremen’s entry into this system and you would have not found my people on their entry.â€
“This act of arrogance is not the answer to getting you out of this facility.†Kinsey replied “in fact nothing you say to me could get you out of here Simon, you know this, it is up to powers that are far my station who will make those choices.â€
“Well what they need to know is if my ship continues to be overdue then they will send others to this system.â€
“That is already being taken care of†Kinsey replied seeing their other man’s surprise he decided to let him in on a secret that had kept Fenwick off the grid for so long. “You said that the Combine scouts that passed through this systems said there was nothing of note with four burned planets none within the habitable zone?â€
“Something along those lines, yes†Rosberg confirmed
“Have you not been wondering how they got their information so wrong?†Kinsey teased “they didn’t, in fact they never sent a single message about this system†he said noting Simon Rosberg’s surprise “because we did.â€
“You did…†Rosberg said sitting back down “the Combine scouts returned home?â€
“Did they? Have you met them? Of course not they were long dead by the time you were even thought of. In fact they were ‘dead’ as soon as that ship left the system.†He said smiling “a volunteer crew replaced the Combine crew they jumped the vessel through its next survey mission completing it, as far as we know, before transmitting all the data. The vessel then had an unfortunate mishap and exploded during a jump heading to the Benjamin system with the ship materializing in pieces, there was no crew to examine and no ship to physically check.â€
“What happened to the volunteers?â€
“Who knows†Kinsey joked “they knew as soon as they volunteered they would never return to this star system, they didn’t want to come back, they could have died on the JumpShip or they could have gone out there and made lives for themselves I honestly don’t know.â€
“What about the original crew?â€
“They became productive members of our society here just as you and your people will.â€
“But we could bring so much more†Simon Rosberg said this time his words sounding more like a plea “we have not resisted you. We have been honest. All we ever wanted to do was serve the Star League Defence Force, to make a difference.â€
“And you will, you will make the SLDF or whomever you work for never come back to this star system, and that difference is something that everyone here will be very thankful for.â€
“People will come looking for us†Rosberg warned “the Star League Defence Force know where we went and they have the firepower…†he said before stopping midsentence knowing that it was beginning to sound like a threat. “Curtis let us take some of you from this system we’ll show you how the Inner Sphere has changed we’ll show you how we are not a threat to your people in fact we could make Fenwick great once more.â€
“Personally I think you make a good case Simon, but the Ruling Council and the Grand Duchess make the decisions and the answer to the people. General consensus in the system is we remain isolated.â€
“So while the Cavilier is jump capable you've never been tempted to have a look into the Inner Sphere?" He asked continuing to try and find out more about the people of Fenwick.
“No it and out two JumpShips have not been used that way. We prefer isolation but we keep them around just in case.†He confirmed “our system is self sufficient we do not need outsiders Simon. Our system values its independence and we won't be surrendering this to anyone.†He said making the Major realize that while Fenwick’s history placed it with the Star League perhaps its future did not. "Each of the Succession Lords tried to claim that they could be the First Lord. So one of them has succeeded and created a new League in their own image. Fenwick will not end up like that." He said as two guards entered
"But it's not like that.." Simon Rosberg protested "why won't you listen to us? Look at our records the Succession States came together, united, to repulse the Clans!" He shouted raising his voice, the wrong thing to do as the two guards grabbed his shoulders.
"The Clans, ah yes, the Star League's superhuman descendants" Kinsey said proving to Rosberg that they had been on board the Bremen and looked at its data. "Do you really think we believe that the Star League Defence Force fell so far to invade the Inner Sphere? Kerensky told us that he wanted nothing to do with the Inner Sphere. He told us that we would be the last guardians of the Star League's legacy and we will not let him down." Kinsey said glancing up at the guards "take him away."
Interception, Stormchaser (League III-class Destroyer)
Ionus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
28th March 3109
The Stormchaser had returned to the Ionus system after the Shadow Guard had found a couple of technical issues with their newly retrofitted WarShip. The Stormchaser was moving in system towards the shipyard when there were several reported explosions and internal fighting reported on of the orbital warehouses. With the Loyalty Battle Group out of position to intercept the pirates as they withdrew the Stormchaser had been contacted and was tasked with intercepting and destroying the fighters for an additional bonus over and above that the Free Worlds League already paid their mercenary command.
David Prentiss moved across the bridge of the Stormchaser as they approached the incoming DropShips “make final checks on weapons target the lead Mule first with naval gauss. If they survive we target with autocannons and broadside gauss.†He commanded as they approached “next up is the Overlord and Buccaneer.†He said he wished they had their aerospace fighters and DropShips with them but the Stormchaser hadn’t expected combat at Ionus and the Shadow Guard remained concentrated in force ready to oppose Clan Wolf’s raiders. “Can we identify their trails?â€
“One of the ships appears to have a Free World League registry†Lieutenant Matt Swift said from the weapons console “both others are registered in the Periphery one in the Marian Hegemony the other the Magistracy of Canopus.â€
“Tells us lots†Prentiss commented “communications offer them a chance to surrender†he commanded as the distance between them closed the communications officer looked back across the rectangular command deck and shook her head. “Fine Lt Swift fire at will†he said as the Stormchaser lined up on its target turning slightly in space to aim for the DropShips. Suddenly the pair of forward medium sized naval gauss rifles opened fire. In moments the slugs crossed the distance between them narrowly missing the incoming DropShips “second volley let’s do better this time.†He commanded the crew were still getting used to the new WarShip. This time the gauss rifles were joined by capital grade lasers and autocannons from the vessel’s forward arcs. The front of the Destroyer was alight for a moment as weapons fire left the ship and crossed the void between it and their targets. The time the weapons fire was far more effective with one of the autocannon barrages blowing open the nose of the Mule consigning the DropShip’s crew to their deaths in cold vaccum as the DropShip was torn to pieces. Naval Laser fire burned down the sides of the Overlord but the remaining two DropShips continued forwards. “The Gauss Rifles in the nose need calibrated, let’s make a note of that. Bring us to port and give them a broadside.â€
“Forward autocannons are still reloading†Swift reported “autoloader problem.â€
“I knew we should have done more shakedown manoeuvres before leaving†Prentiss commented cursing Colonel Storm’s choice to recall them to Spirit so soon following several Wolf raids. Prentiss was glad that the Stormchaser had not been tasked with opposing any Wolves so far since he wasn’t completely convinced the Destroyer was up to the task. “Keep the lasers hot and add them in with the broadside.†He commanded as the Stormchaser continued its turn “helm continue course I want our backs to them if there are any survivors when we pass aft gunners have first crack on them.†He said hoping that the two remaining DropShips didn’t survive that long, if they did then they would be in weapons range of the Stormchaser which wouldn’t look too good.
“Coming into sights and firing†Swift reported as the forward naval lasers and broadside gauss rifles and barracuda launcher fired together this time ripping open the side of the Overlord. In all honesty these three DropShips had no chance against a WarShip of the Stormchaser’s size and armament but they had still gotten further than Prentiss would have liked. His crew needed more training he thought as a naval gauss salvo tore through the nose of the Buccaneer carrying on through the ship and exiting through the aerodyne’s tail section almost completely bisecting the small DropShip. “Targets destroyed sir.â€
“Better as the engagement went on Lieutenant, have sensor crews begin searching for any survivors or salvage that could point to the pirate’s origin. Let’s see if we can sweeten our cash sum for this little excursion.†He commanded monitoring the crew as they dealt with the aftermath of their first engagement as battle’s went it had been a very one sided affair. During their search the MS Phillip of Macedonia, the District of Marik’s newest Eagle II-class Frigate, had arrived to assist with their search. An evolution of the original Eagle design the Eagle II was planned to be the Free Worlds League’s future escort design for their Thera and Imperial designs but David Prentiss knew that there were others who wanted to see a new variant of the League-class Destroyer be the Eagle II’s rival and give the Free Worlds League some variety much like that enjoyed by other states.
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Time to explore some of my other stories
Field Test
Belogost, Independent World
Periphery
3rd April 3109
Dropping through the atmosphere of the independent system of Belogost the Clan Nova Cat Vanguard-class DropShip Vasa headed towards the pirate settlement on the planet below until a couple of months before Belogost had been a vibrant independent Barony who openly traded with the Nova Cat traders treating the Clansmen equally with other trade partners. Now however the world was overrun by two pirate bands that had continuously made war on each other, exploited the population and attacked the Federated Suns and Nova Cat traders, today that changed.
Star Colonel Nai Drummond sat in his Nova Cat II OmniMech and looked at the altimeter which showed the DropShip’s height as it dived through the atmosphere. As the DropShip fell suddenly so did its cargo of the OmniMechs, Battle Armour and ProtoMechs which dropped from the bottom of the DropShip towards the ground. In the air already flew ten OmniFighters proving an escort for Nai’s Third Nova Cat Roar Cluster as it deployed from the DropShip. Aware that in this battle they would be contested at all times the vehicle bays which were normally equipped with heavy combat vehicles today were equipped with a variety of attack and transport VTOLs which launched from the upper section of the DropShip as it entered the lower atmosphere. Among these forty VTOLs were four brand new Strix Attack VTOLs which utilized Stealth Armour technology giving them an added edge over other VTOLs.
Even as Nai Drummond’s ground forces landed on the planet the VTOLs and aerospace fighters were already launching attacks against the pirate’s main base a massive castle like fortification with concentrated attacks and strafing runs. Distracted by the air attacks the pirates were unprepared for the assault from the two OmniMech stars, supported by ProtoMechs and Battle Armour troopers. Attacked on multiple fronts the pirates had no chance against the incoming Nova Cats who quickly overwhelmed and capture or destroy the remaining pirates.
With their original leaders dead the Nova Cats decide that Belogost requires their protection on a more permanent basis taking over control of the planet. Two of the four Strix VTOLs had been lost during the fighting and while the Strix was effective in combat as a scout and a harasser the Nova Cats believed that the design needed more work before being mass produced.
Border Raids
District of Dieron/Isle of Skye
Draconis Combine/Lyran Commonwealth
9th April 3109
With several worlds of the Isle of Skye suffering repeated raids the Isle of Skye Provincial Military Command launch several raids into the District of Dieron officially searching for the origin of the leaders who have struck their worlds. In the La Blon system the Fourteenth Sun Zhang Training Cadre embarrass the Fifth Isle of Skye Guards sending them home minus nearly an entire combined arms regiment.
Following the Skye raids the District of Dieron retaliate but go further than raids invading and conquering Ryde and Marfik with the Third Legion of Vega and the Ryuken Roku units the Isle of Skye militias defending these worlds stand no chance of maintaining their garrison while the barely armed LCS Thorin, a Fox-class Merchant vessel, is obliterated at the Hyde system’s nadir point by fighters of the Ryuken Roku. They Lyrans make an official protest to the Star League Defence Force for the Combine’s actions but because Skye acted first the Archon refuses to support a Skye led invasion of the District of Dieron instead desiring to maintain the status quo.
Capellan Conflict, Border fighting
Capellan Confederation
18th April 3109
Even as the Lyran/Combine border erupts into fighting the Capellans secure control over Wazan, Pacht and Corey driving off the remaining Oriente troops. Refusing to allow the Capellans to have everything their own way the District of Regulus wades into the battle assaulting Capellan troops on New Delos, Second Chance and Varna.
In both the New Delos and Second Chance system the Regulans attempt to destroy the Capellan Mandarin-class Battle-cruisers in these systems only to face further nuclear fire which sees the CCSS Qin Shi Huang crippled and under Regulan control in the New Delos system and the RS Regulus, an Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser, destroyed. On the surface of New Delos, Second Chance and Varna the Capellans continue to resist the District of Regulan troops but the Regulan actions are enough for Park Place, Ibstock and Bernado to request Regulan defence.
SLDF Staging Area
City of Stiller, Eaglesham
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
25th April 3109
In a small briefing room on Eaglesham Major Morgan Christifori and the officers of his battalion waited quietly for the arrival of their briefing officer. The Star League Defence Force had orders for them to enter the Draconis Combine, a job that had become much more difficult following the raids by the Isle of Skye, today they’d get the specifics. The door swung open and in entered a woman wearing the duty uniform of an SLDF Officer carrying the insignia of a Captain. Morgan watched her instantly recognizing her as the “Customs Officer†on Odessa. Throughout the briefing Morgan barely listened instead he remembered the New Year’s party he knew that the details would be in the mission pack and that this briefing was purely to show the personal side of Star League Intelligence.
“Alright people you’ve heard the lady†Christifori said from his chair looking around his troops “get your gear ready to move.†He commanded dismissing the Battalion’s officers around him. He remained seated as they left around him. At the front of the room Marika Danko took a seat behind the front table like a teacher watching her students leave as the last left he pulled the door closed behind him realizing that Morgan wished a private word with the briefing officer. “You lied.â€
“I protected you, Major, it’s my job†she said remaining seated “the Command doesn’t like fraternization between officers you know that…â€
“Officers should not fraternize if they are in the same unit. We are not in the same unit.†He said it was a thin line and he wasn’t convinced that their superiors would completely agree but he was willing to chance it if she was. “Now if you didn’t want anything to do with me that’s fine.â€
“It’s not that I just don’t know where we will be in six months to start something†she said rising to begin to pack her briefing bag.
“Well I guess I’ll be in the Draconis Combine†Morgan said turning towards the exit not completely convinced with how this was ending. “Keep in touch, Captain, I don’t think we’re quite done here.†He said leaving the room a few hours later Morgan’s Ninety-fifth Special Operations Battalion was ready to leave Eaglesham and enter the Draconis Combine. Their mission was to track down the raiders who had sparked the conflict between the Lyran Commonwealth and the Draconis Combine and their first mission would be to Vega.
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Bannister Cameron’s Residence
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
5th May 3109
Phones rang through the darkened personal residence of Bannister Cameron as the Duke scrambled out the side of the bed and grabbed the handset. “If the world isn’t ending I’m hanging up.†He promised whomever it was on the other side of the line. After a moment Cameron was fully awake and sitting up out of the bed “can you say that again?†He asked rising from the bed and heading into his personal study. “Okay I want you to send me everything that you have as it comes in.†He said as his wife Andrea appeared at the door wrapped in a bed robe “go back to bed my dear I’ll be along presently.†He promised her covering the mouthpiece of the handset momentarily “listen very carefully I want a copy of everything the investigation brings up… no I said everything… yes, I am going to look into this personally, yes, independently of the Intelligence Command, no, I trust them implicitly but I sent that crew on this mission and I want the answers.†He said cutting off the link. For several minutes he sat in his study thinking things over according to the report the SLS Bremen had jumped into the Saffel system and exploded soon after its entry into the system with all hands lost.
***
Three days later Bannister Cameron had looked over the initial salvage reports from the wreckage of the SLS Bremen. So far the salvagers had found enough bio-matter to match the missing crewmen and the ship’s sensor data from its mission to Fenwick system. But looking at how the Bremen had exploded he wasn’t convinced that it was the accident it had been reported as. Instead now he stood in his work office in Unity City looking over the data as he waited for the communications system to connect. Suddenly the large screen opposite him activated and an image beamed via one of Terra’s HPG arrays broadcast an image directly from Tharkad. “Director Reece Kennic, it’s good to see you again.â€
“Duke Cameron, what a nice surprise†he said greeting the Protectorate leader “I trust your family is well?â€
“Very well, Director, thank you for asking.†Cameron said pleasantly Director Kennic was the co-owner of Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad the producers of the Peter and Isis classes.
“How can I be of assistance?â€
“I am sending you a classified Star League Intelligence Data File in conjunction with this message Director. I would like your people to analyse this and give me your findings.†Bannister Cameron explained “Director, Star League Intelligence will likely also be contacting you regarding this please give them the same cooperation that you have given me.â€
“Of course, Duke Cameron, if I may ask this is very unconventional why are you doing this personally?â€
“I began this and I wish to see the end of it.†Bannister explained he had trusted Simon Rosberg, gotten the mission confirmed, and very possibly gotten him killed.
“Of course we will investigate as much as we can†the Director promised Cameron knew that the company would do all they could to find the cause of the destruction of the Bremen knowing that if it was a technical failure there could be a chance the other ships of the class could be susceptible. Personally Duke Bannister Cameron hoped that it was not a technical defect.
***
In the Fenwick Simon Rosberg was oblivious to Bannister Cameron’s personal crusade to discover what had happened to the Bremen instead he and the other sixty-one crewmen of the Bremen were getting used to “The Section.†In the last couple of weeks Rosberg had learned much about his new surroundings the Section was a strange mix of hardened criminals who were sentenced to hard labour instead of the death sentence, those who wanted to make a little extra on their monthly income accepting a few days in the asteroid belt to boost their pay and thrill seekers who wanted to try something different.
The Bremen’s crew had been added to a work detail of those who wished to boost their income and all things considered it wasn’t a difficult job they had been given. Each day they were collected from a converted Monolith-class JumpShip by small craft known as “Rockhoppers†they were taken to various asteroids in the massive belt of the Fenwick system where they dug out the metals. So far Rosberg couldn’t work out what they were using with all the metals that were being dug out, while the space station and small craft would have taken resources all of these were old and had seen many years of service there was nothing that would explain to where the newly dug out metals were being used. Their accommodations on the Monolith were actually quite comfortable and the guards quite lax Rosberg had already passed word to all his people from the Bremen that he wanted no heroics and no trouble, he still had hopes that the leadership of the Fenwick system would agree to meet with the leadership of the Star League Defence Force.
Promenade, Nova Cat Clan Hall
City of Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space Inner Sphere
12th May 3109
The City of Andrey was a growing metropolis on Tukayyid and it showcased the best of Clan society with huge buildings housing the population and providing work spaces while leaving the outer world untouched by the Clan’s industry. In the centre of the city there was the Main Clan Hall, the individual Bloodhouse Chapels and the individual Clan Halls all set into an area of space where the towering buildings overlooked them but none overwhelmed. The grounds around the Main Hall and all others were protected by the Ebon Guard Clusters every day of the year. None of the Clans were allowed BattleMechs, Armour, ProtoMechs or Battle Armour units in the area instead they were restricted to conventional infantry units to protect their own Halls and provide internal security this allowed the Ebon Guard to react instantly and overwhelm disturbances with force without causing too much collateral damage.
It had taken Lucian months of planning and thousands of C-Bills to get him to Tukayyid. He had then spend weeks restricted to the Inner Sphere visitor section several kilometres south of Andrey before finally things seemed to fall into place. A Free Guilds work detail had been going to the city and Lucian had bribed a member of the work force to take his place claiming to be a rich trader who wanted to experience life as a Free Guilds worker for a day unsurprisingly the worker had agreed for a price and Lucian had gotten his way to the reserve around the Clan Halls. Once out of the visitor section slipping away from the worker had not been difficult and Lucian was sure the man wouldn’t mind, if they were caught together then the worker would have faced some serious charges for assisting an Inner Sphere citizen.
The sun was going down by the time Lucian made his move and despite the strong Ebon Guard presence he had slipped over the fence and through the reserve joining the ranks of workers and visitors who were making his way slowly up the steps towards the Clan Nova Cat Hall. For years he had dreamed for this moment as he approached the hall, thinking about what he would do when he got here, how he would introduce himself to the Clan, how he’d make them accept him. Even as he was lost in his thoughts twenty-five Clan troopers emerged from the building flooding the stairs with weapons pointed in his direction rapidly surrounding him to the dismay of the workers and visitors. An elderly warrior unarmed warrior wearing the black uniform of the Nova Cats adorned by the Clan’s insignia stepped in front of him “Identify yourself†the man said despite being unarmed Lucian got the impression he was as dangerous as the others.
“My name is Lucian Allard-Liao†he said looking the warrior in the eye “my mother is Megan Allard-Liao, the Duchess of St Ives, and my father was Grayson Rosse. By birth I am a member of the Nova Cat I claim that heritage.†He said defiant over his position before he could speak another word the old warrior lashed out striking Lucian in the face knocking him out in a single blow.
“I Star Commander Hunter Lenardon, I claim this surat as a bondsman to Clan Nova Cat.†He said in a loud voice so all of the warriors and the lower castes could hear him. “Take him inside, the Khan can decide what needs done.â€
Coordination Centre
Vega, Vega Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
20th May 3109
As the clock stuck 0900 just as the Vega Prefecture Command and Coordination Centre filled for the day a nuclear explosion originating from within the Command Centre wipes out the entire facility. Along with the Vega Prefecture Command, the planetary Duke, Third Dieron Regulars Regiment and nearly three million civilians in the surrounding city are all wiped out in an instant. With the Isle of Skye continuing to raid the Dieron Military District the destruction of Vega’s Command and Control causes issues throughout the Vega Prefecture.
Border Conflict
District of Regulus/Glasgow Commonality
Free Worlds League/Capellan Confederation
23rd May 3109
In an operation of asset denial the CCSS Wu Zetian, a Mandarin-class Battle-cruiser, jumps into the New Delos system and unleashes twin volleys of nuclear enhanced capital missiles at the former-CCSS Qin Shi Huang and its nearby guard the RS Kirc Cameron-Jones. While anti-missile system knock down many of the incoming it is not enough to take out all the missiles which do enough damage to make both vessels not worth salvaging. The Wu Zetian then remains in system as Warrior House Dai Da Chi and the Confederation Guard abandon the system to the District of Regulus. Elsewhere mercenaries under Confederation contact land on Quemoy engaging the Sixth Orloff Grenadiers Brigade. After several weeks of fighting on the planet the mercenaries are forced into retreat by the Grenadiers who maintain control over the world.
As the Capellans deny Regulus one of their WarShips and Oriente troops hold onto Quemoy the OPS Lancelot escorts the Seventh Oriente Hussars Regiment to Jasmine while the OPS Second Chance escorts the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente to Fujidera bringing both worlds back into the District of Oriente.
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Nice update! Especially how Lucian Allard-Liao quickly got knocked out!!!! lol a spoiled heir apparent thinking he can just proclaim his heritage!!! ha ha!!!
Keep up the stories!!!!
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Shadow_Wraith - yup I thought it was a decent introduction
Atmospheric insertion over Nasew
Vega, Vega Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
6th June 3109
As their DropShip Atlanta’s Hunt lowered through the atmosphere Major Morgan Christifori monitored the communications below hearing the chaos erupting below. The nuclear explosion had wiped out the City of Neucason causing millions of deaths and creating a radioactive dead zone around the city. Local services were trying to help the people there but they were being swamped and now across the planet’s second city Nasew a series of car bombs had exploded causing yet further troubles. As the planet reeled from the loss at Neucason and now these new attacks the planet’s communications grids were being swamped with propaganda of the Word of Blake’s rise from the ashes which was causing more trouble. “We’re going to need the whole group†Morgan said looking at the boards deep inside the Fortress-class DropShip “Captain, communicate with the Stoat have them return back to orbit and send a message to Odessa, we’ll need more than just our Battalion here.†He commanded his XO Captain Cassadee Grann.
“What are we going to do?†Grann asked before leaving
“We’re going to see if we can pull the Third Dieron together and see if we can bring some order to the planet.â€
“That’s not exactly our mission Major†she pointed out.
“No it isn’t†Morgan Christifori admitted looking at the screens “but I can’t watch that planet rip itself apart, I won’t watch it, we’ll land outside Nasew and try to contact the Third Dieron’s Second Battalion and try to coordinate with them.†He said watching as the Atlanta’s Hunt’s sensors detected another massive car bomb explosion inside Nasew. “Whoever is behind this going to pay but first we do what we can to help.†He said as she nodded and left the room behind and above the Fortress the unit’s second DropShip a Leopard CV began to rise back into orbit. From there the aerospace fighters could still assist the unit but the Leopard would be safe from the fighting on the ground if he could have done without the Hunt Morgan would have sent it back into orbit as well.
Thirty-sixth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Independent World
9th June 3109
In the Thirty-sixth Star League Games Clan Wolf dominate the competition once more with Star Captain Beckham Kerensky, in his Tomahawk Assault OmniMech, once again showing that in a melee environment such as the one seen in the Star League Stadium the young Wolf warrior is on a level of his own.
Elsewhere on Defiance Clan Wolf is also victorious in the Martial Olympiad ground campaign as the Clan shows that despite the lack of action coming from the Wolves that their Touman is ready for battle. Missing from the entire Martial Olympiad are the Capellan Confederation and Draconis Combine both refusing to attend due to border issues with the Federated Suns. In the space over Defiance the LCS Flygia of the Lyran Commonwealth is victorious for a second time in the modern era defeating all others for efficiency and combat readiness.
Border Fighting
Ozawa, Ashio Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
14th June 3109
The SM1 Tank Destroyer took off into the air as it jumped over a small hill on the insignificant world of Ozawa as the Federated Suns attempted to wrest the world back from the Draconis Combine. Over the last few days fighting had once again flared up on the border as the Draconis Combine had raided Deneb Kaitos, Ankaa, Mallory’s World and Fellenin II the Federated Suns had retaliated but instead of raiding worlds had struck out at Ozawa, Mata and Romam with enough forces to take them back from the Draconis Combine.
On Ozawa the Second Robinson Rangers RCT had been joined by the First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry Regiment fighting against the Twenty-fourth Dieron Regiment. As part of the Second Robinson Captain Duncan Sandoval was pressing his attack with his platoon of SM1 Tank Destroyers while the BattleMechs of his RCT and of the Mercenaries held the line. The SM1s purchased by the AFFS from Clan Sea Fox gave his unit a boost in firepower and mobility that few other units could. The SM1s ran quickly across the ground coming around behind a group of Dieron BattleMechs and Duncan lined his hovertank up on a Ryoken KU OmniMech “Striker Mikes fire on my go, three, two, one. Trigger! Trigger! Trigger!†He commanded over the radio as all four hovertanks fired their assault autocannons targeting the backs of the Draconis Combine lance. As they fired BattleMechs which had taken the Combine lances attention in the first place also fired combining their fire with the tanks obliterating the entire lance. As the four SM1s ran past the wrecked BattleMech lance they crossed in between the BattleMechs turning behind them preparing for another run. Their job was simple to keep the Dieron Regulars on edge as the main AFFS/Mercenary force moved through the Combine lines Ozawa would be a Federated Suns holding by the end of the day as would Mata and Romam as the AFFS fought battles it was guaranteed of winning.
Coordination and Command Centre, SLS Tiderace
Swartklip, Inarcs Theatre
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
21st June 3109
The two SLDF WarShips had entered the Swartklip system four days before and started the slow burn towards Swartklip III the lesser of two planets that were inhabited in the system. Swartklip V was the primary planet of the system with the majority of the population on a world that was comfortable for human life while Swartklip III was primarily a mining world surrounded by space stations. Over the years several of these space stations had been turned over from cargo collection points to maintenance yards for the planets in the region with several companies beginning maintenance firms to support the spaceships that passed through the system.
Now the SLDF had moved into the system and would be creating their own facility to maintain Star League vessels and give them a listening post in the system. Captain Chris Fisher monitored their progress from the command centre onboard the SLS Tiderace, one of the Star League Navy’s newest Antares-class Support Vessels, which would be the centre of the SLDF’s operations in the Swartklip system.
“Captain, we have a Union-class DropShip approaching, they claim to have the planetary duke on board.â€
“Duke Miller, we should be so honoured.†Fisher commented “cut acceleration allow them to dock and for the Duke to board then cut them loose and keep us on course. I’m going to go meet our guest.†He commanded turning towards the exit.
Below decks Fisher met with Duke Alano Miller the civilian leader of the Swartkilp system a slightly overweight man with dark grey receding hair with black rimmed glasses. “Welcome onboard the SLS Tiderace, Duke Miller, I’m Captain Christopher Fisher the commander of this vessel.†Fisher said offering him a salute as the Duke boarded the vessel.
“Thank you, Commander, a mighty vessel you have here†Miller replied “it is so nice to have support from the Star League Defence Force in this system a permanent military presence with be a welcome sight.â€
“Well the Tiderace will be here for the next few months the Strider is simply dropping off a few additional DropShips before she moves onto another assignment.†Fisher explained as they moved through the ship he felt the gravity shift slightly as the ship’s acceleration resumed.
“But there will be a permanent military presence from the Star League here at Swartklip, that was part of the agreement!†Miller snapped
“There will be Star League Defence Force personnel on the stations once they are operational and likely on the ground but there is no guarantee of a naval presence in the system.†Fisher explained “if the naval vessels are required elsewhere they will be deployed.â€
“But we are on the frontline against the Clans. At least we have Tiderace here to support our defence.â€
“The Lyrans are on the front-lines Swartklip will be in a position to support operations.†He explained “Tiderace would do everything it could to protect this system but our ship is designed for support operations not front-line combat.†He explained “until our bases are established the Star League Defence Force cannot take full responsibility for the system’s defence.â€
“Which is why our system will not be accepted into the Protected Planets Accord?â€
“That is one of the reasons†Fisher explained wishing one of the Diplomatic Corps had also attended this meeting “once the Star League Defence Force presence in this system has been established and the Estates Generals pass the decree Swartklip will officially join the Protected Planets. Until then you will be under dual authority of the Lyran Commonwealth and the Star League.â€
“But ultimately we will answer to…â€
“Someone with a higher rank than me†Fisher admitted running out of things to say to Miller “Duke Miller, I just build things I don’t make policy.â€
“I understand, Captain, Inarcs, Tharkad and Terra will need to figure this out.†Miller decided not to push it further “meanwhile, Captain, I’d like to extend a welcome to all of your people during their stay in this system. We might not have much, Captain, but I’m sure we’ll have something to fit your needs.†He said deciding to try the welcoming approach instead of trying to force the SLDF into their support.
Rest Period, Charles Martel (Modified Monolith)
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
28th June 3109
After a long days work Simon Rosberg returned to his quarters on board the modified Monolith-class JumpShip Charles Martel for a rest period only to find someone was waiting for him. The person was dressed in work clothing of one of the ‘Section’ inmates but he didn’t recognize who it was, a woman, he realized as he entered the room. “Erm, this is my room and I’m pretty sure we’re not supposed to share.â€
“No, you’re correct, we are not†she said turning round it took Simon a moment to recognize her under the grim.
“Duchess Fenwick†he said in a low surprised voice recognizing the younger member of the Fenwick system that he had met on their primary moon. “I’m sorry but what are you doing here?â€
“Any member of this system’s population can choose to work over the weekend I have decided to work†she explained looking quite happy with herself as she slipped off his bunk “and after the weekend is over we will be returning to Fenwick.â€
“We?â€
“Yes, one of my guards will remain in your stead until we sort this mess out. The station guards area aware.†She said seeing the confusion on his face under the grim. “My mother believes she is protecting Fenwick with her actions but I believe that it is time for us to return to the Inner Sphere on our own terms before they choose to try and force us.†She explained “I would rather we approach your Star League before they come here with an assault fleet or worse.â€
“I will not leave my people to rot here…†he began but she interrupted
“While we worked I spoke with Captain Kinsey when we were working he agrees that ultimately they are his crew even if it is your mission. He agrees that he will continue to follow your orders but that you need to come with me to Fenwick.â€
“Does he now?†Simon asked as Emily Fenwick slipped out of his room “let’s get through this weekend then the real work begins.â€
***
While Emily Fenwick was trying to sort her system out from within Duke Bannister Cameron was continuing to search for answers from outside the star system. With his own investigation and the one undertaken by the Star League Intelligence Command Bannister was convinced that there was something else going on in the Fenwick system than “nothing here move on.†According to the work done by Lockheed/CM of Tharkad the explosion which had destroyed the Bremen should never have originated from where it did as all crews had been briefed not to store dangerous items in that section of the ship. According to the Star League investigation sensor data in the Saffel system showed there was nothing else wrong with the vessel physically with no visual markers which showed anything wrong with the ship.
Using his remaining contacts in the military and his position as the leader of the Star League Protectorate Duke Bannister Cameron boarded the Navy’s newest Indefatigable-class Battleship, the SLS Warlock, moving through the vessel he entered the command centre of the vessel and instantly felt all eyes turn towards him. “Duke Cameron welcome onboard†the vessel’s commander said greeting him this time they were not taking any more chances.
“Thank you, Commodore Vale; you have received the order packet?â€
“Yes, sir, we are completely at your disposal and the Seventy-seventh Special Operations Group are on board and ready.†Nadia Vale said as Bannister approached the central holotank like most WarShips the Warlock’s central command was a large rectangular room with the crew sitting facing outwards while the commander stood or sat near the middle where they could monitor everything. The room was dominated by a large holotank which showed the Warlock’s relative position in the system and everything else around it. At the back of the room there was a secondary holotank which could also be utilized if required.
“Very good then when you are ready take us to Fenwick if you please.†He commanded due to demands on the fleet the SLS Warlock only had two escorts the recently launched SLS Calais, a Dante II-class Frigate, and the SLS Foscari, a Hound-class Corvette. As the three ships jumped clear of the Terran system Bannister was confident that the three WarShips, their support craft and the carried troops would be enough to overcome anything in the Fenwick system.
-
Waystation 3
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Draconis Combine
3rd July 3109
It had not been difficult for Duchess Emily Fenwick and Major Simon Rosberg to leave the section with the falsified papers that had been provided for Rosberg. From the Section they had been transferred by Rockhopper to a way station in orbit over Fenwick. Standing in one of the space station’s cargo bays Simon waited nervously his work clothes from the Section not completely inconspicuous. After a short period Emily Fenwick walked over the bay wearing a white tank top and dark shorts for the first time Simon got a proper look of her she was five or six years younger than him with well toned muscles. “Sorry for the holdup†she said approaching him.
“It’s better than mining all day.†He replied “interesting outfit for an orbital transfer.â€
“There’s only one way down at this time of day†she said pointing towards one of the Thug BattleMechs that stood silently in one of the Mechbays.
“You’re kidding me†Simon said looking at her surprised “I’ve never even seen the inside of one of those things let alone dropped in one of them. I’m an analyst not a fighter.â€
“Not a fighter?†Emily said smiling broadly for a moment Simon thought the sun had come up “but an analyst with six separate close-quarters fighting styles.†She said remembering what she had read on his file which was on the Bremen.â€
“Someone has to have a hobbyâ€
“Its fine I’m going to be the pilot.†She replied revealing a new side to her “I don’t get to do this much.†She admitted smirking as she stepped past him filling Simon with confidence.
Shortly afterwards they were sat in the dual cockpit of the Thug BattleMech “now which control was it again…†Emily Fenwick whispered glancing back at the rear cockpit “I’m joking†she said “this is Foxtrot Four ready for drop†she sent to the station’s control room “roger that in three, two, one detaching! See you guys later!†She called out as the pod holding the Thug opened fell out of the cargo bay of the space station slamming into the atmosphere. After only a couple of minutes the pod exploded open falling into four sections which each its own parachute. Without the pod to slow its progress the Thug plummeted like a stone its speed increasing as gravity took over. “The most fun way to the ground†Emily said looking over her shoulder at a visibly paled Simon Rosberg “don’t worry, Major, I got this†she promised him suddenly cutting in the BattleMech’s jump jets and the BattleMech’s retrofitted backpack which suddenly slowed its fall towards the ground.
“You know it isn’t all that bad†Simon Rosberg said after a few minutes taking in the sights of Fenwick as the BattleMech fell it was a beautiful moon that the people of this system had made their primary home.
“Just wait for the impact†she said cutting off the backpack increasing the speed of the BattleMech’s fall.
“Impact?†Simon asked suddenly not feeling so comfortable as the BattleMech continued to fall.
“Yeah the impact†she said finally moments before the Thug came crashing down for a landing which wasn’t the heaviest of impacts but then again was still eighty tons of metal slamming into the ground. Emily expertly ran the BattleMech forwards converting some of the energy from the landing lessening the blow.
“Well that was interesting†Simon said quietly wondering why anyone would voluntarily want to do that as a job serving in a command and control, or looking over battle reports he understood but falling through the sky in metal coffins was something he really didn’t understand. Glancing around and at the Thug’s sensors he saw that they had landed on an exercise field most likely used by the Fenwick military given the number of vehicles and support structures nearby.
“Oh no†Emily whispered after a moment while Simon had been taking in the sights she had connected to the Fenwick military network and picked up on some chatter.
“What’s going on?â€
“The Star League Defence Force has arrived…†she said as planetary militia forces began moving around the field “we need to speak to my mother before something stupid happens.â€
“How long do we have?†Simon asked
***
At the nadir point of the Fenwick system the SLS Warlord and its escorts the SLS Calais and Foscari entered the Fenwick system finding the nadir point abandoned. After a few moments the powerful sensors on the three WarShips revealed a far more complex system than they had expected. “I knew there was something wrong with this system.†Bannister Cameron said triumphantly now with more desire than ever to discover what happened to the Bremen’s crew.
“Sir, the asteroids†one of the crewmen warned as the sensors detected several asteroids closing slowly on the nadir and zenith points “they are not on natural orbits… and they are armed with nuclear weapons!†He warned looking over at Commodore Nadia Vale.
“Prepare for an emergency jump, sensors focus on the dead zones of this system or it’s Kuiper Belt we’ll jump without leaving if we have to!†She said thinking quickly there was more to Fenwick and they’d find out what it was even if it meant going the long way.
“Commodore, communications we need to try and speak to them…â€
“They murdered the Bremen’s crew†Vale said angrily
“We have to try†Cameron demanded knowing that while they had come here armed for a conflict it couldn’t finish that way without trying something different.
***
On the ground Emily Fenwick had pushed her eighty ton assault BattleMech to its maximum to reach the Fenwick Family Residence in Fenwick City. When reaching the city limits she had made her identity known and received an escort through the city rapidly increasing her progress. Abandoning the BattleMech at the front of the Residence she and Simon Rosberg ran through the residence finally arriving at her mother’s primary meeting room. “Emily, it is about time you are here, where have you been? Playing at being a solider again?†She demanded glancing up seeing that Simon was with her “and what is HE doing here?†Her reaction to his presence immediately gaining the attention the guards present.
“He is with me†Emily stated calling them off “mother we cannot win a war with the SLDF.†She said angrily “if we start a conflict with them it will be the end of the life we have built here.â€
“We can show them we are strong that Fenwick has stood on its own all of these years and can stand up for itself…â€
“But at what cost? Our weapons will be like bows and arrows compared to what they can bring here.†Emily said attempting to shock her mother into standing down from the course she was taking. “I know what you are thinking we stand up to them we show them what we can do and if they defeat us then they will rebuild us stronger than ever because of our valiant actions. But the damage that will be caused will be immeasurable.†She said Duchess Gloriana Fenwick looked at her daughter and then towards her military commander Field Marshal Galen Prescott.
“Continue deployment of the Cavalier but send a message that they only fire if they are fired upon.†She said looking at her daughter and then towards Simon Rosberg “we won’t start this.â€
***
Near Fenwick’s star the three SLDF WarShips maintained their positions to the star as another massive radiation spike appeared on sensors before the massive Stefan Amaris-class Battleship Cavalier appeared nearby orientating its broadside towards the SLDF vessels.
“Bring us to port†Vale ordered “target vessel with weapons as we turn, fire on my command.â€
“Belay that!†Bannister Cameron commanded from his position near the central holo-tank immediately he gained an angry look from Commodore Vale. “Scan that vessel what class is it?†He commanded ignoring the Commodore’s glare.
“It’s a Stefan Amaris-class Battleship… a Rim Worlds Republic design that served during the Civil War.†Vale said glancing at the warbook in front of her “there weren’t many built and according to our historical records they were all destroyed.â€
“Exactly†Cameron said looking at the holotank image of the ship “it hasn’t fired on us and it might hold the answer to what is going on in this system. They wish to provoke a fight with this action well we’re not going to take the bait.†He announced looking at the screen seeing a two headed eagle and the number twelve on its nose. “Open a communication link†he said making a choice after a moment he spoke “this is Duke Bannister Cameron on board the Star League Starship Warlock. We mean no hostile intent. We have come to this system in search for the crew of the SLS Bremen who went missing while looking at this system. I repeat we mean no hostile intent against this system we would prefer to open diplomatic relations with this system and the Star League Protectorate.â€
***
On the moon Bannister Cameron’s words filled the airwaves and a strange sense of disappointment, relief and elation crossed through the room as they realized that the Star League Defence Force were not here to make war. Duchess Gloriana Fenwick looked at her daughter with a mixture of frustration and pride. “Daughter, perhaps you should take over†she said passing over her authority to Emily. Before she left Gloriana Fenwick looked at Major Simon Rosberg she didn’t say anything instead she just nodded towards him before turning and leaving planning room.
“Field Marshal have the Cavalier offer to escort the Warlock in…†Emily mumbled quietly as her mother walked out she and Simon shared a glance and grabbed each other in an embrace as the relief washed over them. Near the Nadir point the Cavalier and the Warlock began to move into the system with the Calais and Forscari remaining at the Nadir point.
Diplomatic Mission, Fenwick City
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military Prefecture, Draconis Combine
10th July 3109
The Outpost-class DropShip had landed on Fenwick and deployed a lance of OmniMechs a Hauptmann, a Templar, a Sunder and a Black Watch all Sphere’s designed Assault OmniMechs. On board each rode a squad of Battle Armoured troopers while a single armoured vehicle also left the DropShip and carried Bannister Cameron across the landing field to the small facility. Inside Bannister felt like he had gone through another miss-jump and returned to the Star League-era with the décor one that matched that of the classic Star League Defence Force. He was led by a man and woman dressed in standard SLDF fatigues from the first Star League through standard military corridors to an equally standard meeting room.
For more than an hour he waited in the room without a single person entering from the planet. Sat behind the meeting room table Bannister Cameron wondered if this waiting game would go on much longer when the door was opened by the guards and in entered Major Simon Rosberg who wore a plain green jumpsuit. Immediately Bannister Cameron saluted which he then dropped without waiting for a response “Duke Cameron welcome to Fenwick†he added remaining standing.
“Major, it’s good to see you alive, I assume the rest of the Bremen’s crew are also alive?â€
“A few bumps and scrapes from Fenwick’s penal system but they are alive and since your arrival in quite comfortable accommodations here on their primary moon.â€
“Primary?†Cameron asked the Warlock’s massed sensor arrays had detected artificial signatures but nothing to indicate further habitats.
“Yes†Rosberg replied “the majority of their population is here on Fenwick but the people of this system have been here and explored the system thoroughly from what I’ve been able to piece together they’ve landed on six of the moons in total and more than a dozen of the asteroids. They also have several space stations†he said only through a discussion with the prisoners at the Section and Emily Fenwick did he know that otherwise the people of Fenwick continued to maintain secrecy about their operations and habitation of the Fenwick system.
“So when do I actually get to meet them?†Cameron asked realizing he was being given access to exactly one thing, his own officer.
“Not today†Rosberg admitted seeing the Duke’s face “sir, this system has been in seclusion for a long time their only contact with outsiders has been with those who wished to do them harm or exploit their resources.†Rosberg explained when they treated his crew the way they had Simon had not understood but given time he had learned.
“I understand them being skittish but have we not shown we can be tusted?â€
“I believe you have†Rosberg sad trying to calm Cameron “which is why Duchess Emily Fenwick has agreed to meet you tomorrow representing her mother and the Fenwick system.â€
“Until tomorrow†Cameron said looking Rosberg up and down for a moment “we’ll get you and your people new uniforms from the DropShip, Major, regardless of what Fenwick wants I want you looking your best tomorrow.â€
***
The night passed quickly with on Fenwick with comfortable quarters put up for Bannister Cameron and a few of his aides. During the night Simon Rosberg and the other crewmen of the Bremen had also been transferred to the facility and been provided with new uniforms. Early in the morning Duke Bannister Cameron was escorted to one of the meeting rooms for the meeting with the people of Fenwick. Heading through the facility he met Simon Rosberg on the way and was taken into the meeting room. Already waiting inside was a young woman with dark hair which was tied up and a navy suit with a white blouse and an older man wearing a slightly modified version of the original Star League Defence Force uniform. “Duke Cameron, I am sorry for your delayed welcome, I am Duchess Emily Fenwick welcome to our world.â€
“Thank you, Duchess, it is remarkable what you have created here†Cameron admitted approaching the table in the room sitting down opposite her.
“Though eternal vigilance†the man said “successive leaders of this system have demanded that our security is taken as our greatest concern currently that task falls on my shoulders, Field Marshal Galen Prescott, at your service.†He said introducing himself.
“A pleasure to meet you†Bannister Cameron said bowing his head slightly “we do not wish to threaten your safety we simply want to invite you back into the Star League’s circle.â€
“The Star League’s circle†Fenwick repeated quietly “as I understand from our debriefing of the Bremen’s crew that the Protectorate worlds which has replaced what the Hegemony once was is at the command of the Succession Lords.â€
“Not quite†Cameron said glancing at Simon Rosberg “the Star League Defence Force does answer to the First Lord who is elected from among the Succession Lords but the Protectorate itself is now considered to be an independent state and is gaining in influence every year.†Cameron said “with the support of the Protectorate we could bring more wealth into this system than you have ever experienced. The Star League Defence Force can bring far greater protection to this system. It is that or in time the Draconis Combine could stumble on you and bring far greater firepower on you than you could resist for long.â€
“You try and threaten us? We were not found for centuries until you stumbled across us we were quite happy hidden away from everyone. People do not know about Fenwick and we are happy for this to continue.â€
“With respect Duchess†Rosberg said before glancing at Bannister Cameron “the Inner Sphere is a changing place at present there are dozens of active regiments and WarShips. There are DropShips that have the equivalent firepower of a Star League-era Destroyer. And then there are the Clans, descendants of the original Star League Army, they care nothing for borders or previous agreements you have made with them. They see something that they want and they come for it.†He explained trying to show the dangers that Fenwick could possibly face the SLDF had found them anyone could “you have an impressive Battleship and some nuclear weapons but they will go only so far. Allying yourselves with the SLDF will provide additional security in this troubled times.†He said trying to reason with the Fenwick Duchess.
“You are welcome to remain on Fenwick while we deliberate over our decision. You are welcome to move around the capital however your weapons and vehicles must remain out with the city failure to agree to these terms will result in a reaction from our forces which you will not survive. Any requests to visit production or military facilities will have to be cleared by myself.â€
“I thank you for the invitation, Duchess; I look forward to getting to know Fenwick much better.†Bannister Cameron said rising from his chair along with Simon Rosberg both nodded their heads once before turning and leaving the meeting room.
Interrogation Room
Nova Cat Hall, City of Andrey
Tukayyid, Clan Territory
13th July 3109
After weeks of isolation and interrogation the doors opened and the large warrior who had claimed Lucian Allard-Liao a bondsman stepped into the room. “What is this?†Lucian demanded despite the long time in the cell his defiance still strong. “I surrendered to this Clan I deserve…†he began before a backhanded slap caught him across the face knocking him to the ground.
“You what?†The warrior asked kneeling down near Lucian “you deserve attention? You deserve recognition?†He asked “you are a freebirth who could not even face us in combat you had to sneak onto this world. You deserve nothing†he said standing up drawing his sidearm.
“I could not be guaranteed fighting this Clan in combat if I joined the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.†Lucian said looking up straight into the muzzle of the warrior’s sidearm. “I did not wish to serve anyone other than the Clan of my father Grayson Rosse.†He stated “I wished to rise above the petty politics of the Inner Sphere†he spat “and serve a higher purpose.†He said making serving the Clan sound like something to aspire to. “If I must die to show this devotion then I am ready to face this fate.†He said closing his eyes his head remaining in line with the weapon.
“You’re lucky your case has caught the attention of our Khan who has commanded you be released as my bondsman and moved to our other territories.†He said re-holstering the weapon leaning towards Lucian “but understand something your father was not a hero of this Clan and nor will you be.â€
“We will see†Lucian said picking himself up “and watch your contractions warrior.†He chided the Nova Cat warrior resulting in an immediate, and expected, backhanded slap that once again knocked Lucian to the ground.
“We will see how far your defiance gets you Bondsman.†The warrior said walking out of the room within the week Lucian Nova Cat had been transferred off Tukayyid en route towards Tamar and from there to the Nova Cat’s Den.
Diplomatic Negotiations
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military Prefecture, Draconis Combine
21st July 3109
Over a week past on Fenwick before a decision was made about their future with the Fenwick leadership agreeing in principle to join the Star League Protectorate but for now at least refusing SLDF protection and refusing to open the system to outside visitors. Bannister had explained to be part of the Protected Planets Accord they would have to allow others to enter and settle on any world of their choosing but so far Duchess Emily Fenwick had refused instead she invited Bannister Cameron and the crews from the WarShips to remain in the system and see what they were so keen to protect.
For Fenwick itself Bannister Cameron was impressed while the world did not feel overly militarized, in fact you rarely saw an armed soldier on the streets; they had several weapons factories which built everything from small arms to naval autocannons. Duchess Emily Fenwick had explained the Cavalier had required multiple weapons to be manufactured leading to factories being built. While Bannister though that this was a good answer the Cavalier appeared to be fully operation why they were still in operation remained unanswered, Bannister Cameron had also learned that while Fenwick’s standing National Guard was only a combined arm’s Regiment in strength that over the years they had acquired several more vehicles, Mechs and weapons from those who had stumbled on the system. Arriving during the Succession War period the equipment had been in disrepair their operators shell-shocked from the horrors that had befallen the Inner Sphere and most had surrendered quickly netting Fenwick their equipment for little effort.
During a tour of Fenwick’s facilities Emily Fenwick had explained that the people of Fenwick had taken these unit’s equipment apart and rebuilt them from the ground up making improvements as they went or converting them to the needs of the people of Fenwick. One of these had been a pair of Strike Falcon Attack VTOLs which had originated in the Capellan Confederation nearly seven hundred years prior. Emily Fenwick had explained that they had been found in a weapons cache during the First Succession War by a mercenary company who were fleeing the fighting when they stumbled across Fenwick. With no need for an attack aircraft the people of Fenwick had reduced both to their basic chassis before rebuilding them as air ambulances and several rebuilds later the two aircraft still served Fenwick National Hospital.
On another tour Major Simon Rosberg had reported to Bannister Cameron that Fenwick’s military had two pristine Lee-class DropShips which had been acquired from a SLDF unit that had settled in the system. Likely the last two DropShips of their class the two DropShips were among the most capable troop carrying vessels ever devised and were priceless on any Inner Sphere market. Despite these revelations Bannister wondered what other treasures had been hidden away in the Fenwick system as the people in the system were still being secretive the system’s Duchess Gloriana Fenwick had not been seen since his arrival on the planet, the people of Fenwick refused to show them the Section and refused to allow any of the SLDF personnel to explore the rest of the system with the Cavalier keeping the SLS Warlock inside Fenwick’s gravity well limiting what the Battleship could do without causing a conflict.
Border Fighting
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
25th July 3109
The “northern territories†of the District of Oriente disappears virtually overnight as the systems of Ulan Balor and Yunnah request protection from the Federated Suns following rumours of ethnic cleansing the Capellan Confederation and near constant terrorist attacks. Within hours of the request AFFS ground forces and mercenaries are moved into the region while Oriente troops are given a deadline of 48 hours to remove themselves and their equipment from the system. AFFS commanders pass via HPG to nearby worlds that any use of nuclear weapons against their ground forces will be met with an “absolute and final†response from the Federated Suns.
Elsewhere Quemoy, Elnath and Vertabren fall to the Capellan Confederation. The presence of Star League Defence Force observers and naval forces mean the fighting is confined to conventional warfare with elements of the Sixth Militia and Sixth Orloff Grenadiers facing off against Capellan Confederation forces. In very short campaigns the Capellans bring increasing amounts of firepower against the defending forces on Quemoy and Elnath while on Vetrabren the Capellans face off against elements of the Third Regulan Hussars who were trying to establish their hold on the world. Rapidly the Capellans also gain dominance on the world destroying the Regulan force. With the ground secured the Capellans demand that the SLDF naval forces leave the systems despite communications from the ground based populations requesting assistance against the defenders.
Following their forced retreat Admiral Yves Guidette, the commander of the Fourth WarShip Squadron on board the Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser SLS St Andrews, requests that the First Lord and Commanding-General authorize their forces to defend Star League territory from Capellan aggression. Both remind him that the SLDF mandate, on the FWL/Capellan border, is to stop the use of weapons of mass destruction not defend every system that comes under attack. The final world the “northern†territory chooses to request Star League Protection officially aligning with the Star League Protectorate.
-
Time to blow open the secret of Fenwick. Not the last story I will tell in this system but perhaps revealing a couple of secrets and explaining their initial secretive nature.
The last part is from James Tanaga continuing to expand the Fire Mandrill story
Bannister Cameron’s Quarters
Fenwick City, Fenwick
Star League Protectorate
3rd August 3109
After nearly a month of getting to know the people of Fenwick Duke Bannister Cameron was feeling accomplished as he packed preparing to leave the system the people of Fenwick had officially agreed to join the Star League Protectorate and they had agreed to the free travel rules of the Protected Worlds. He still hadn’t met with Duchess Gloriana Fenwick but her daughter had said that the Duchess would not stand in the way of Fenwick’s return to the Inner Sphere. There was a knock at the door “please enter!†Bannister called turning towards the doors moments later one of the palace guards opened the door and in entered who could only be Gloriana Fenwick. She was perhaps in her early eighties, perhaps older, and wore a navy and silver gown with a purple sash across it. “Duchess, you honour me†Bannister Cameron said bowing his head slightly in respect.
“Don’t patronize me, Duke Cameron, I have ignored your presence at every step you know this despite my daughter’s insistence I was unwell? I am correct?†She asked Bannister nodded she was unlike her daughter, who had trained as a MechWarrior and routinely undertook trips across the system, Bannister was sure that she had lived a comfortable life here for most of her life and she didn't care about his position in relation to her. “Good then you are not an idiot.†She said walking into the room looking around “I hope you have found your accommodations comfortable during your stay?â€
“I have, Duchess, I understand your reluctance to invite outsiders to this world it is quite idyllic. We have no intention of installing new leadership here no forcing you to accept masses of new immigrants.â€
“I know this…†she said crossing the room again “I do worry Bannister Cameron this world was founded as a retreat a place where civilization could be forever protected and the weapons that were created out there could not reach.â€
“I am aware†Bannister said remaining where he was “we will not volunteer the location of Fenwick that I have already promised your daughter…â€
“I am aware†she said repeating him cutting him off “however perhaps you are not fully aware of our reasons for wishing this system not to become too crowded…â€
“Am I not?†Bannister already knew Fenwick had secrets, secrets he had been willing to wait to be answered.
“I believe not†she said suddenly stopping her pacing looking at him “I need you to trust me. You must accompany me to the Cavalier and until I show you what we must protect beyond everything. Your WarShip must remain clear, at least initially.â€
“And where are we going?†Bannister asked more curious than worried if these people wished to hurt him they would have already done that.
“Not far†Gloriana Fenwick said calmly
“I agree†he said making his decision showing trust in this woman he had just met regardless of the risk he planned to see this through, he immediately through of Andrea and his children but duty came first, a contingency was in place should he never return the Star League would prevail.
***
Duchess Gloriana Fenwick’s ‘not far’ had been ten days onboard the Cavalier. During that time Bannister Cameron had been given complete access of the WarShip and found exploring the huge WarShip an adventure all on its own. The crew were perhaps a little more lax than what he had come to expect from the crews on SLDF vessels but then these crewmen had been locally trained and never faced an enemy who was willing to engage them in combat sight of the SLS Warlock was probably the first ‘enemy’ WarShip they had ever encountered. That wasn’t to say that the crew was anything but polite with him still not the military officers and crew he’d need them to be before he could ever deploy the vessel as an asset of the Star League Defence Force.
Entering the command bridge Bannister saw that Duchess Gloriana already awaited him there. The room was a little unconventional all of the consoles faced into the room’s centre while at the far ‘forward’ end of the room was helm, while down the starboard side of the room was weapons command, communications, internal security and sensors while at what the crew referred to as the ‘aft’ was engineering and damage control. The entire port side of the command deck was taken up by a massive holotank, which was easily larger than any Bannister had seen on a WarShip, which detailed everything about the ship and the space around her. In the Duke’s personal opinion while grand the holotank was a little overpowering. “Duke Cameron, we are about at our location†she said as Bannister came alongside her she indicated for him to hook onto the console suggesting that the ship’s engines would soon stop. He slipped his boots into special holders which would hold him down. Very quickly the engine’s ceased their forward thrust and Bannister felt the lack of gravitational force slowly move over him, he hated zero-g and microgravity environments, but tried to ignore it as he looked over at the Duchess who also seemed to dislike it. “Captain, if you please†she directed the ship’s commander suddenly the holo-tank pulled out from the Cavalier and began to show several items close to them. First was the last planet of the Fenwick system then its nearest moon, which they were now behind according to the holo display in the dead space behind the planet he saw nearly three dozen objects and one larger one probably a space station. As the resolution cleared he realized it wasn’t just a space station but it also appeared to be a shipyard.
“What is this?†Bannister asked looking at what he was seeing.
“The Great Father commanded that Fenwick become a bastion for the Star League the last holdout for a past civilization all alone in the dark.†Gloriana Fenwick explained “you didn’t think we would be that hold out with a couple of nuclear weapons and a single WarShip?†She asked Bannister suddenly looked back at the holo-display and realized that the smaller objects were actually WarShips, more than three dozen of them!
“Great Father?†Bannister asked having a good idea about who she was referring to but wanting to be sure.
“Aleksandr Kerensky, father of the Star League Defence Force, he made what is at Fenwick possible.†She explained nodding towards the ship’s commander and the display forcused on the smaller vessels. “Initially the population believed that Kerensky was withdrawing to an SLDF Depot in the near Periphery so they concentrated on refurbishing as many ships as possible repairing four corvettes, two destroyers and three heavy cruisers in a short period of time.â€
“I only count seven ships?†He said not trying to sound ungrateful but not understanding why her count was out.
“Three Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers were sent into the Draconis Combine during what the Inner Sphere refers to as the First Succession War. Nuclear weapons were employed against them and only the Tsesaevich returned heavily damaged after that the people began to strip the remaining weapons from the rest of the ships, drain them of their fuel and make their hulls air tight.â€
“Putting them into preservation…†Bannister whispered stunned as the holo display pulled out again “and the shipyard?â€
“A plan made by the founder of this system Sir Roger Fenwick created.†Gloriana Fenwick explained “while the work to strip the remaining WarShips kept the population employed and most of the ground equipment is stored away from people who could cause harm it they still needed a focus. There was a single Stefan Amaris-class Battleship among the old hulls stored here, one that Kerensky had found at the back end of the Rim Worlds Republic, it was the largest and most capable hull left in this cache.†She explained signalling to the ship’s commander and the holo-tank focused on a group of a dozen identical vessels. “He tasked his people to repair the ship which was completed by the time his son was born. Seeing what his father accomplished his son William ordered the people of his generation to build another grand vessel for his first child. Over the years it became something of a tradition.â€
“A tradition to build Battleships…†she whispered stunned now the reason why the mines and the factories continued to operate made sense to him. “This is a gold mine if it had ever been discovered during the Succession Wars they would have burned this entire system to gain access to it.†He said still surprised that no-one had ever discovered this system and exploited its secrets.
“Which is why we have been so secretive about what is in this system and taken measures to stop anyone who discovers us leaving†she said her voice finding a new menacing edge “those who have refused to surrender have died and those who have surrendered but remained a threat to us have been sectioned.†She explained Bannister nodded he knew from speaking to Major Rosberg that the people of “The Section†were a mixed bag of thrill junkies who wanted new experiences and prisoners he could believe that many had died mining the asteroids. “We have also seeded the entire area with nuclear weapons†Gloriana warned “they are still there to this date.â€
“This is when you expect the rest of my people to jump in and try and seize control?†Bannister asked
“The thought had crossed my mind. Your Warlock may be still in Fenwick’s gravity well but we detected what we believed was a Hyper Pulse Generator aboard the vessel.†She explained “the battleship’s sensors are powerful enough to find all the open space in this system and find the places that you could jump into.â€
“We have no plans to invade Fenwick.â€
“The more you say that the more I believe you.â€
“However I do believe we have found the first place that the Star League Defence Force would like to put some resources.†Bannister said looking at the ships and the shipyard. “We have a Newgrange-class Yardship and a Fleet Support Vessel we could deploy to this system and kick start the refit process bringing the first visitors to this system and bringing new work to the system.â€
“That could be acceptableâ€
“How did you find the germanium to construct the K-F cores for those Battleships?â€
“Some of the ships we built using salvage taken from some vessels that were too badly damaged to be made safe. For others I will need you to send a message to the Warlock so they don’t panic when they see us jump away from Fenwick.†She explained as she did the Cavalier’s engines activated once more turning the WarShip away from the ship depot.
***
An hour later the ship’s K-F Drive activated sending the Cavalier through a jump into deep space far from any star. “Welcome to Section Omega our most remote mining outpost†Duchess Gloriana Fenwick explained as the ship emerged back into real space near a converted JumpShip which had been turned into a space station which hung over what appeared to be a shattered planet. We believe this planet once belonged to the Fenwick system many millennia ago how it broke the way it did we do not know. We actually discovered it by accident one of our JumpShips miscalculated a jump towards another system which it believed was twenty-nine light years away in fact it was two hundred-and-ninety light years away.†She explained how such a mistake was made beyond Bannister “they were stranded in deep space for nearly eighteen days as their fusion engine charged the K-F core manually during that time they discovered Omega. Its core is made of pure germanium worth billions on the open market and priceless to Fenwick.â€
“How do you get people to work out here?â€
“Volunteers all of them, even the criminals who are sent here,†Gloriana said “a prisoner can work off ten years of his sentence at this facility in six months and they get to pilot some of the smartest IndustrialMechs ever created.†She boasted the lack of atmosphere meaning the prisoners out here probably piloted converted BattleMechs to do their work relying on the heat from its fusion engine to keep operating.
“Truly all of this is impressive.†Bannister Cameron said looking at the operation displayed on the holographic display. “I cannot believe that it has been hidden away for so long. Duchess I will be happy to accept you all into the Star League Protectorate, I am beyond happy†he said “I have one snagâ€
“A snag?â€
“Yes, we cannot call the Battleships the Stefan Amaris-class. Across the Inner Sphere and beyond his name is reviled.â€
“I understand†Gloriana Fenwick agreed “locally we call them the Aleksandr Kerensky-class.â€
“Which is fine for Fenwick but beyond that name would likely also create conflict†Bannister explained thinking the Clans would hate that as much as Stefan Amaris while the Inner Sphere would question even more where they had come from. “How about the Fenwick-class?â€
“While that may appeal to some of the younger generation those who have past would roll in their graves at the prospect and once Fenwick’s place became known I am sure that the Draconis Combine would wish a piece of what has been under their noses for so long.â€
“Then how about we use the Otey-class? It means father in Russian Kerensky’s native tongue and given that it was the father of your family line who set you on this path.†Bannister Cameron suggested after a moment knowing that the Stefan Amaris-class could not remain in SLDF service.
“I accept†she said for the first time since Bannister had met her she smiled he hoped the first time of many now that Fenwick was part of the Star League’s Protected Planets.
Food Riots
Vega, Vega Prefecture
District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
9th August 3109
With the planetary HPG destroyed few realize how bad the situation on Vega truly is as food riots break out across the globe. In the city of Roccer an entire battalion of the Third Dieron Regulars is mobbed as rumours the DCMS have food stashed in their base spreads like wildfire. Unable to stop the hoards of angry, scared civilians the Battalion is massacred by the mob. Even as Morgan Christifori’s SLDF unit scrambled to try and maintain the peace the Third Dieron’s military commander Hojo Ujimasa commands his troops to open fire if further mobs form resulting in hundreds of civilian casualties.
With Vega’s primary spaceport destroyed aid shipments were landing at alternate facilities at Nasew were being stretched to their limit. Unfortunately when systems and people are pushed to and beyond their capacity accidents happen. The Fury-class DropShip Truant carrying medical personnel attempted a landing as the Buccaneer-class DropShip Maine attempted to take off. With neither vessel able to alternate their course a collision was inevitable causing the destruction of both vessels and closing the landing area for several hours as repair crews attempted to clear the wreckage and repair the damage.
At one of Vega’s jump points two Tramp-class DropShips arrive and deposit several DropShips worth of supplies for the people of the system. Several days later the Bear DropShips land on the planet’s surface and offload their supplies before leaving the ground before the remaining Dieron Regular troops can oppose the landing zones. The supplies left are made up of food, water and medical supplies enough to help several thousand civilians for a few days lessening the load being put on Vega’s spaceport.
Recovery Ward, Medical Treatment Facility Four
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
14th August 3109
Canin Rosse stirred as he laid on the bed the pain coming from his left side and more specifically his left arm slowly bringing him to consciousness. Looking around the room the Khan knew he was in a medical facility meaning the battle had not gone well. Closing his eyes he tried to remember the last moments of the battle with saKhan Katrine Devalis he remembered the weapon impacts which tore the left leg assembly from the saKhan’s Demios and her final particle cannon shots slamming into his Dragon Cat’s torso burning into the gyroscope and then his OmniMech falling.
“Do not go back to sleep my Khan.†A female voice said off to his right bringing him around once more. He looked over and saw a battered saKhan Katrine Devalis sitting on the chair.
“I congratulate you on your victory, Khan Katrine†he said weakly
“Neg, it has been decreed that it was a draw.†She answered “My OmniMech was downed at the same time when you severed my left leg†she explained remaining at the side of his bed. She did not sound one bit angry about the battle's result.
“But I was left unconscious†he said looking down at his own left hand realizing that the lower part of his arm was gone and budded over with thick bandages “and obviously I was badly injured†he said he felt further pain down his left side but everything else was intact. “You were victorious you are now, Khan.â€
“Neg, I refuse the position, our battle was over a disagreement it was not over the leadership of our Clan, you maintain the support of the council and of me you are the right man to lead our Clan.â€
“I am seventy-one years old perhaps it is time for my rule to end…†He said despite his current injuries Canin Rosse’s body was as healthy as a man twenty or thirty years younger.
“Neg, we disagree once more Khan Rosse†she said interrupting him “you have the drive and vision to see where our Clan should be in the universe more so than anyone else.â€
“Perhaps it is time for that vision to change.†He said glancing away from her he had been in command for a long time, perhaps too long, many Nova Cats jumped at the challenge to strike at the Draconis Combine perhaps his peaceful attitude towards the Federated Suns was slowly strangling his Clan. The problem was he didn't know if he was the man who could change that.
“That is your choice my Khan but you are still the leader of the Nova Cats and me.â€
“A leadership you have weakened.â€
“Aff, weakened but not broken†she reminded him “you are still Khan of our Clan" she repeated again as if she intended on convincing him of the fact herself. "Another left hand and lower arm are already being grown†she said stepping forwards leaning forward over him “you can still be Khan if you want to be. It is your decision†she said finally “and it is mine to continue to command our operations against the Combine and the Ravens with your public support and without interference.†She said taking what she wanted from the victory.
“If you became Khan then you will not need support†he reminded her challenging her once more “you have always wanted to be Khan why now when you have this golden opportunity you are not taking it?â€
“My vision†she said quietly “it continues to inform my decisions daily and for now I know that my future is not Khan of the Nova Cat Clan.â€
“What is your future?†Canin asked wondering is Katrine knew herself
“That has not been decided†she half joked turning to leave “I wish you well my Khan and hope you decided to continue to serve our Clan.â€
“And if I make choices as Khan that threatens what you believe is in your best interests?â€
“I came close this time to beating you Canin Rosse, next time I will make sure that you do not recover from your wounds.†She promised him finally before leaving him on the bed to contemplate his future.
In the coming weeks and months Canin underwent several operations to repair the damage done to his left arm and to heal other wounds. Once he had recovered sufficiently the Khan was challenged three times by ristars in the Clan’s Touman who wished to lead the Nova Cats and saw a weakened vulnerable Khan. Each time Canin faced his challenges in single combat and in each case he was victorious showing that although Katrine Devalis had come close to beating him he still had fight.
While many had been swayed by Katrine’s battle against him as it had been classed as a draw few could use it to show he was unfit for command. By the end of the year Canin Rosse had successfully defeated an additional two challenges to his rule and cemented his continued control over the Nova Cat Clan. These distractions keep Canin Rosse focused on maintaining control over the Nova Cat Clan for the remains of 3109 while Katrine Devalis continues her own path.
Border Conflict
Draconis March, Federated Suns
Military District of Benjamin, Draconis Combine
21st August 3109
On Robinson Duke Duncan Sandoval free from his obligations to lead the Draconis March is seen in downtown Robinson City with Major Ariana Steiner, of the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry, despite the age gap the two appear completely comfortable in each other’s company. Media agencies in the Federated Suns question whether the Duke should be stepping up to his heritage instead of trying to bed a mercenary.
While Sandoval enjoys Steiner’s company the Draconis Combine raid Sadalbari, Fellenin II, David and Raman while the Federated Suns itself raids New Mendham, Barlow’s Folly, Ludwig and Junction. The Seventh New Avalon Guards RCT and the Fifth Robinson Rangers LCT successfully capture Barlow’s Folly and New Menham destroying two Benjamin Regular units while the DCMS capture Sadalbari, David and Raman only failing to capture Fellenin II as the Second New Ivaarsen Chausers LCT.
Salvatore Incorporated (Rim Motors), Space-station Michael
Layover, Tikonov Operating Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th August 3109
Countess Vicki Famito of Layover floated in microgravity as she silently looked out the window with pride, as both Fulcrum prototypes begin to dock to the Michael the huge space-station she was currently aboard hovering above Layover as the world spun below. The Fulcrums were beasts, weighing sixty thousand tons, with speed matching a destroyer, and their weapons systems and onboard aerospace assets allowing them to compete with smaller warships. Something both her nation and the Rim Collection had demanded.
And the staff here delivered. While she knew the Federated Suns Navy would still need to approve the design for their use, she smiled, for the Rim Collection Touman representatives had already approved the design for the Collection’s own use and they were willing to stomp up the money to pay for the craft. They only requested a minor design change to allow for the inclusion of one of their mobile HPGs.
She smiled as she thought about the fortune that had finally shone on them. Layover had once been a major industrial concern for the Federated Suns in the First Star League, providing for much of the Federated Suns’ heavy naval manufacturing, until its fall and the First Succession War which had seen the world invaded by the Draconis Combine and pillaged by their troops. Afterwards, however, the world and her family’s company, along with its fortune, had met near-nonstop misfortune time after time after time.
Four and a half years ago, Vicki had been forced to declare Salvatore Incorporated, the economic life blood of Layover, bankrupt. She was in despair yet she had little choice the company, her house and family had little to offer and could not pay debts owed from loan after loan over the last few years.
What she expected happened. The Ministry of Commerce and Trade sent feelers out to other companies as they begun the process to disassemble the company and sell its assets to the highest bidder. What she wasn’t expecting, though, was Rim Motors’ public call for the return of Layover’s Golden Age and in doing so, riled up not just the population of Layover, but also of the Federated Suns into supporting their proposal. Rim Motors who originated in the far off Rim Collection had attempted to purchase companies across the Federated Suns as the small periphery nation attempted to broaden its base of suppliers and extend its reach far beyond its borders.
And now, she was glad for their intervention. Though Salvatore Incorporated was no more, Layover was now bustling with excitement, as the Rimmers and their Monkeys continued their methodical approach to return Layover to its Golden Age. She’d found it strange when she first found out that members of the Rim Motors team were actually Clansmen members of Clan Fire Mandrill that resided inside the Rim Collection. Technically on visitor passes to enter the Federated Suns they shouldn’t be working for any corporation but because the Mandrill’s did not treat money the same way as the people of the Inner Sphere so there was that tiny loophole that Rim Motors made the most out of.
On Layover the transformation had been slow but was already making an impact. In the last year three separate companies had been brought online bringing manufacturing of weapons, vehicles and DropShips back to Layover transforming the world’s economy and bringing new blood to the world. The Federated Suns had already placed certain restrictions on what could and could not be sent out of the nation and in what quantity, and had deployed an entire New Avalon Guards RCT to the world to enforce this, but even with these restrictions and over watch from the AFFS the Rim Collection was coming out well ahead of what they could produce in their own nation. One of the Rim Motors “Rimmers†had explained to her that a world like Layover had a population three times that of some Rim Collection worlds they had access to trade routes with dozens of systems and because much of the weapons went to the AFFS they had the support of the Federated Suns Government which added together far outstripped what could be produced at home.
The news on Layover conveyed that on a daily basis reminding people that while Salvatore Industries was technically a name of the past and while some of their weapons were being shipped out with the Federated Suns their world was once more contributing to the gross product of their nation instead of living on handouts from other worlds. During this little enterprise the Collection had unveiled its first two home-built Odyssey-class JumpShips to the Inner Sphere sending them across the Inner Sphere to show how far they had come and how far their ambitions extended. As part of the deal to transport weapons out of the Federated Suns Countess Vicki Famito knew that the Rim Collection, and Clan Fire Mandrill, had agreed to sell one of the Odyssey’s to the Federated Suns Military but it seemed like a small price to pay especially considering the new levels of defence the Fulcrums would bring to the nation. Famito suspected that the Rim Collection must also be making similar agreements with the Star League Defence Force and Lyran Commonwealth so they could travel through their space but she knew that such agreements could only be good for the system of Layover. Finally its name was being spoken on a dozen different worlds not because they needed help but because finally the system was beginning to return to its routes.
-
Deep Raids
Ashio Prefecture, Dieron Military District
Draconis Combine
1st September 3109
“Hit them hard! Push forwards, PUSH them back into the river!†Leftenant-Colonel Canin McKinnon shouted down the comms from his Prefect BattleMech “destroy them completely!†He ordered targeting an enemy BattleMech with his Heavy Particle Cannon as two Zibler Fast Strike Tanks flew past engaging more DCMS units alongside McKinnon’s BattleMech a Shadow Hawk LAM converted to BattleMech mode and landed onto the ground with a heavy “thump†adding its weapons to the mix as a squad of Hauberk Battle Armour troopers unleashed their weapons targeting another Combine BattleMech.
“Bossman, times up!†Major Luciano McDonald reported from the McKinnon’s Raiders command tank. Canin McKinnon had been against the expansion of the Fox’s Teeth from their combined arms Battalion to their current combined-arms Regiment but he had to admit the extra resources they had was quite useful.
“Negative, we can break them completely, have Silver Lance pass to Addicks we can liberate this world!â€
“This comes from Silver Lance Bossman, times up, Captain Dryuan wishes to remind you of our orders and not to extend yourself.†McDonald reminded him “she said that you can’t take a planet with a regiment and we have a job to do.†Inside the cockpit Canin McKinnon cursed loudly banging the side of the BattleMech.
“All units break as per the plan, we’ve won here today people and the DCMS now it but it’s not the plan.†He said commanding the break-up of the attack. Their mission now was simple extract as much of their command as possible and move onto the next target. As per commands from First Prince Burton Davion the newly formed McKinnon’s Raiders Regiment and the FSS Silver Lance, a Robinson II-class Transport, were to go behind enemy lines and raid planets of opportunity. If they encountered significant resistance they were to jump immediately to the next system and Towne was to be the first of many targets hit as the AFFS attempted to break down the latest Draconis Combine offensive.
Evacuating Towne the McKinnon’s Raiders four DropShips joined the FSS Silver Lance which held position near the system and then the WarShip and the DropShips escaped via a pirate point jumping to Murchison. There they repeated the same tactics landing far from a populated area attacking the DCMS forces for a short period of time before retreating leaving the system’s defenders hurt and shocked unsure if another attack was due. Over the course of the rest of September the small raiding force successfully raided Halstead Station, Prefecture capital Ashio and Shimonita before joining AFFS assault forces to capture the worlds of Junction and Ludwig.
These successes pale however as the DCMS open a second front invading Gandy’s Luck shattering the Third Ceti Hussars RCT on that world reducing it to a third strength as Gandy’s Luck and New Aberdeen fall to the Draconis Combine.
JumpShip Heart of Kerensky (Odyessy-class JumpShip)
Deep Space, Deep Periphery
4th September 3109
Star Colonel Alex Lassenum stood nervously on the JumpShip Heart of Kerensky as he watched the Overlord C-class DropShip approach the JumpShip. Nearly three hours before the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser Rocinate had arrived in the system to Alex’s knowledge the vessel had not left the Colleen system since the Blood Spirits had secretly salvaged it from the York system nearly twenty years before. Officially the Blood Spirit flagship the vessel was seen by many as little more than a system monitor of the Colleen system protecting it from a threat that had never emerged officially it was Khan Katja Keller’s official transport but she had, to his knowledge, not been on board since it was salvaged.
When the DropShip boarded Star Captain Wesley Sukhanov, the Heart of Kerensky’s commander, had attended the airlock and met their visitor escorting them through the vessel. Sukhanov was an old man approaching his seventies and would have been retired in Clan military that was not desperate for capable warriors, which thus far he had proven himself to be, entered the gravity deck meeting room and behind him was Khan Katja Keller. “My Khan what are you doing so far from the homeworld?†Alex Lassenum asked stunned at seeing the old warrior so far from Colleen if the Society were aware of her presence here they would strike without a moment’s delay.
“If I am not able to leave our homeworld without something falling to pieces then there is something very wrong.†She replied “and I have a time sensitive mission for you which I trust only to you Star Colonel.â€
“Of course, we have been preparing for further operations on Ironhold, there is intelligence that there are nearly a Cluster’s worth of Jade Falcon warriors imprisoned on the world after being captured by the Society from a far flung research outpost.†Alex said he wasn’t entirely convinced by the intelligence but it was an opportunity to hurt the Society and possibly gain some more allies.
“I am aware†Khan Keller said “however the Falcons, if they are there, will have to wait. This mission is more important.â€
“I understand and am ready to serve†he said his immediate readiness to serve the Clan reaffirming Katja Keller’s faith in him to lead the Watch.
“Tell me what do you know of the Nueva Castile?†She asked crossing the room slowly.
“It is, or was, a small periphery nation which the Clans have traditionally paid little to no attention to instead concentrating on the invasion of the Inner Sphere. We have traded for them in the past trading equipment and food for supplies we need to continue efforts against the Society.â€
“Correct†Keller confirmed “but what you may, or may not, be aware of is that a very small number of Goliath Scorpion Warriors, Scientists and Sub-castes landed on one of the nation’s worlds and has become integrated into the nation.â€
“I had heard rumours, but in those same rumours I heard that the Scorpions split upon reaching Castilian space with elements making it as far as Nova Cat territory in the Inner Sphere where they were destroyed or captured.â€
“Aff, a fragmentation did occur so badly that the Scorpions were not able to capture the Hanseatic League instead they have been reduced to holding several enclaves on one of the League’s planets.â€
“Another failed Clan†Alex Lassenum commented seeing the scowl of his Khan “I am sorry Khan Keller, I know you value each of the Clans and the reasons behind their creation but I must look at it practically the Scorpions are a dead Clan.â€
“I know†she said glancing downwards “but there is an opportunity with these Scorpions.†She said finally “an opportunity to bring them back into the fold.†She explained “they have resources and expertise that we require for our Clan’s continued survival and they are Clansmen. I want you to go to them and to bid for their resources Star Colonel and bring them back to Haven.â€
“You think I will need my whole cluster for such a meeting? We could split elements off to accomplish both tasks Quiaff?†He asked it had been done plenty of times before in the current state their Clan was in deploying an entire unit to one problem wasn’t always possible.
“Neg, you will take your entire unit. We believe there are other elements interested in securing the loyalty of the Goliath Scorpion survivors and their resources.†She said her use of the word ‘loyalty’ had surprised him a Clansmen should be loyal to their Clan and nothing more but he remained silent.
“I understand my Khan†Alex Lassenum said from his facial expression Katja believed he had something else to say.
“Speak your mind Alexâ€
“My Khan, why are you and the Rocinate here?†He asked the presence of both was too out of the ordinary for such a mission briefing.
“I have my own mission to attend to†the Khan admitted immediately seeing his concern “do not worry I have no plans of passing, not yet anyway†she said attempting to reassure him “the Osis pride has been spotted.â€
“Dezgra†Alex Lassenum spat “Khan Keller, forget the dishonoured Scorpions, the traitors should face everything we can throw at them!†He snapped the Osis Pride was a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser crewed by former members of Clan Smoke Jaguar who had fled the Homeworlds when the Inner Sphere destroyed their Clan. They had returned with the Society leading several attacks against the Clan holdings and now they held positions of power throughout the Society’s armed forces with the WarShip a symbol of their power.
“And we will when the time is right. I wish to see it before then and make its crew aware that my Clan is coming for them.†She explained “this is my mission, your mission is ahead of you, now go and prepare your men and your equipment I wish to speak to Star Captain Sukhanov, one old warrior to another.†The Khan explained sharing a look with Lassenum and then Sukhanov the younger Star Colonel looked between them before leaving the room.
“How are you Wes?†The Khan asked in a far less formal tone when they were alone.
“I’m old†he answered dropping the formality along with her.
“Aff, we both are†she said inclining her head towards the door Alex Lassenum had left through “what do you think him?â€
“A rising star for the future but not now†he advised cautioning him on any rash action.
“The future is now, Wes, the future of our Clan rests with men who are ready to make the tough choices.â€
“He still misses her†Wesley Sukhanov said referring to MechWarrior Laurel “we spoke briefly about her a few weeks ago after the Raid on Irece.â€
“As bad as the reports suggest?†She asked changing the topic slightly
“Aff, the chemical and biological weapon use did a lot of damage. The civilian population there live day to day not knowing if the winds will bring fresh air or death and the Society just watch.â€
“I heard they have released a newly engineered nova cat Quiaff?â€
“Aff, they name it the null cat it is able to completely disappear from sight with some sort of camouflage. The Society engineered it to resist all of the chemicals on the world and to hunt the human population as well as anything else on the world.â€
“Bastards†she commented
“Aye, but they are also idiots†Sukhanov pointed out “from what we could gather the null cat’s days are numbered the native animals are fighting back against them and are winning. The chemicals we spread in Irece’s atmosphere might just even the playing field over time if the Society don’t realize what we’ve done.â€
“They can join each other in their grave†she commented “did you receive my message?â€
“Aff, my Khan†he said suddenly returning to formality “I’ve buried it deep in the ship’s computer banks. The only way anyone will ever locate it is if they know what to look for.â€
“And it is still locked?â€
“Affirmative as per your commandsâ€
“Very good, Star Captain, I hope you do not need to deliver the news but if you do it has been an honour serving with you old friend.†She said leaving the gravity deck within the hour she had returned to her DropShip heading back towards the Rocinate while the Heart of Kerensky began its three week journey to the Nueva Castile.
Command Deck, Subtlety (McKenna-class Battleship)
Galatea System, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
15th September 3109
For the first time in months the Subtlety was moving under her own power. The DropShip repair crews of The Repair Crew had repaired all of the McKenna’s damaged hull sections allowing the crew to use the whole ship for the first time they had also done extensive work on WarShip’s armament, engines and internal systems. Now the Subtley’s entire main particle cannon armament was active while the large assault Naval Autocannons that had supported the particle weapons had been replaced with smaller cannons in double and quad configurations. The switch had been made to allow training on advanced targeting techniques which were available with an increased number of weapons. For defence the Subtley’s hull was dotted with an array of laser based and conventional anti-missile systems which would all for training in the different use of point defence while screen launchers had also been added while the ship’s magazines for the AR10 Capital Missile Launchers had been expanded to allow the ship to use the new Rayfin Capital Missile, the heat dispensations systems had been expanded to allow for use of all the new systems while the Battleship’s fuel storage had also been expanded allowing for training of refuelling operations. These changes along with a massive expansion of the training rooms inside the Battleship had given the WarShip a far bulkier feel than the standard McKenna so much so that already DropShips could tell the Subtley was different from regular vessels of the class.
It had cost the training academy almost all their available funds but overall they had come out with a more capable asset for their training school. Sitting in the command centre of the Battleship Captain William Leroy-Dietrich watched his crew and the cadets work the systems of the Battleship as they practiced manoeuvres around the Galatea Station. “Bring the nose down a little, continue acceleration†Lieutenant Gwen Parker instructed the trainees bringing the Subtlety below The Repair Group’s Ratchet Behemoth-class DropShip which was repairing a mercenary DropShip from the Daniel’s Avengers silently the 1.9 million ton WarShip slid below the repair operation giving the workers there a marvellous show as the 1.4 kilometre long vessel slid past.
Without warning the Subtlety’s command centre went from complete control to noise and chaos as the sensors recorded a huge explosion ripped across the hull of the Galatea Station. “MASSIVE HULL BREACH ON GALATEA!!†Someone screamed as the hull was blown open compromising several of the gravity decks and at least one cargo bay. As parts of the hull and cargo drifted away from the station the Subtlety’s sensors recorded organic matter mixed in with wreckage.
“Combat stations, I want to know where that explosion came from, contact the shuttle bays I want rescue ships out there now, external communications get me Captain Erika McLainey onboard the Driver we’re going to need them to seal those breaches then get me the station’s command deck.†Captain William Leroy-Dietrich called out above the noise of the Subtlety’s command deck around the bridge several of the cadets froze in place not expecting a real emergency. “Commander Park clear the bridge now!†He snapped calling on Commander America Park to remove the cadets and for the trainers to resume their normal duties. “Now get to work those people are going to need our help.†He said looking at the screens and holo-tank image at the small expanding mess alongside the space station.
Over the days and coming weeks it was discovered that an explosive device had gotten through Galatea Station’s security and been activated inside one of the cargo bays. The resulting explosion from the device had breached the main hull and ripped through two of the gravity decks compromising multiple sections of the hull and the station’s defence grid. In total ninety-four persons inside the space station had been killed, including two members of the recently arrived Daniel’s Avengers who had been enjoying some shore-leave, and over three hundred others had been injured.
Trial of Position
Tukayyid, Clan Space
22nd September 3109
In a reprisal for Trials against Clan Jade Falcon forces Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward is challenged for and killed in a Trial of Grievance Brennley Roshak a Star Colonel from the Falcon’s Eighth Talon Cluster. At twenty-four she is significantly younger than every other Loremaster to date but her martial prowess is unquestionable and the Clans agree to allow her to replace Thomas Ward as the defacto leader of Tukayyid, the Ebon Guard Cluster units and the Free Guilds based on Tukayyid. With Roshak’s rise to power it marks the second time that the Falcons have controlled the office in control of Tukkayid.
JumpShip Heart of Kerensky (Odyessy-class JumpShip)
Granada, Nueva Castile
Deep Periphery
26th September 3109
After several jumps away from the Clan Homeworlds the JumpShip Heart of Kerensky jumped into the Granada system of the Nueva Castile emerging above the system’s star at the nadir point. Standing at the back of the small bridge Star Colonel Alex Lassenum was immediately confronted by the wreckage of a WarShip. “It doesn’t conform to any known WarShip Star Captain Sukhanov.†The helm officer reported as the JumpShip’s sensors scanned the vessel “over six hundred metres in length, five hundred thousand tons†he said looking at the systems “it had an extensive weapons grid conventional and capital weapons.â€
“So it is unlikely an original Star League-era vessel a prototype, possibly one that the SLDF abandoned on their way to the Homeworlds?â€
“Negative there are definitely Clan markers on some of the construction methods used.†He replied looking at Wesley Sukhanov.
“A turn up for the books†the JumpShip’s Captain muttered looking at Alex Lassenum
“Aff…†Alex began before the helm officer interrupted.
“Sirs!†He warned as the JumpShip manoeuvred clearing the WarShip wreckage allowing the screens to display another ship waited at the jump point a Monolith-class JumpShip painted bone white “she identifies as the Whispers of Blake, belonging to the Word of Blake Militia.â€
“What the hell is going on in this system?†Alex Lassenum wondered beyond the JumpShip hung another ship this one looked close to the size and dimensions of the wreck that the Heart of Kerensky had detected but appeared to have been modified.
“Communications from the WarShip it identifies as the Scorpio Miracle and it welcomes us to this system.†Another crewmen said “now that we are here we can join the others on the planet’s surface and the bidding can begin.â€
“The others…†Alex Lassenum wondered quietly what he had gotten into in this system.
-
I decided to tell the whole periphery story in one section instead of breaking it up through the month. If it's a little hard to follow let me know and I can break it out into its own story thread with dates for each section.
Refugee Crisis
Altenmarkt Province
Rasalhague Dominion
4th October 3109
In the space of four days three JumpShips enter the Rasalhague Dominion from the Draconis Combine each carrying full loads of DropShips. Unlike previous incursions by the Draconis Combine these JumpShips do not carry troops of war instead they are each carrying thousands of civilians who immediately declare their surrender and request asylum within the Rasalhague Dominion. Without exactly knowing how to take these requests the local Rasalhague Dominion garrison commanders on Accrington, Port Moseby and Buckminster place these civilians in internment camps and call on Alshian for assistance.
Main Meeting Rooms
Granada, Nueva Castile
Deep Periphery
8th October 3109
It had taken a week to travel to Granada under the escort of the strange Goliath Scorpion WarShip from there they had been directed to make camp no closer than five kilometres from the main enclave and send their commander to the base where they were given a small office to work from. Alex Lassenum had found their procedure strange but had agreed to go along with it and instead of making any trouble had waited his time until he entered the main meeting room.
The room was dominated by a wooden circular table which had a hollow centre and was open on one side. Alex was first to arrive and had been directed by the Goliath Scorpion lower casteman to one of the seats there he waited until the “others†that the Scorpions had invited to this bid, the prize that Alex still didn’t fully know. Over the course of the next hour three more individuals were escorted in one Alex recognized as a Clan Sea Fox warrior/trader, while another wore what appeared to be Clan fatigues but he didn’t recognize the insignia she wore while the last wore all white robes which Alex guessed made him a representative of the Word of Blake. Alex remained silent as the others took their seat waiting for the Scorpion to arrive, they didn’t need to wait long before the self-styled Khan of the Goliath Scorpion Clan Ingo Yeh entered the room the representative of the Word of Blake rose to his feet but the others remained seated and quickly the man returned to his position.
“I thank you for coming†Ingo Yeh said speaking to all of them “the Goliath Scorpions with to rebuild their strength and become the Clan that we once were beginning with the conquest of the Nueva Castile, but to do this we need further resources and weapons. To that end we are willing to trade three of our four Scorpion II-class WarShips, vessels that are the same class as the vessel that escorted you in, we are willing to trade these to you for the right price and we welcome your bids from the Sea Fox Clan, the Blood Spirit Clan, the Word of Blake and the Stone Spirit Clan.â€
“Stone Spirits?†Alex almost instantly snapped looking at the young woman in the strange uniform “who the hell are you?†He demanded suddenly ignoring the others in the room.
“I am Star Colonel Sarah Campbell of the Stone Spirits†she answered defiantly
“Stone Spirits…†Alex repeated “as in Omega Galaxy?†He asked rising from his chair “you traitorous bitch!†He snapped remembering what the people of his Clan had called the members of Omega Galaxy who had abandoned their Clan and the Homeworlds during the assault on York. Without another word Alex about turned and walked out of the room returning to the side office his Clan had been assigned.
Several hours past before Khan Ingo Yeh sent for Alex Lassenum. He walked back along the corridors returning to the meeting room finding only the Khan remaining within the room. Alex sat down at the same chair he had before and looked at the Goliath Scorpion leader. “That was quite a display, Star Colonelâ€
“I apologise Khan but things that have happened to our Clans has made it easy to lose tempers when confronted by their results.â€
“I know this, Star Colonel, I am the Khan of a Clan that has two Galaxies on paper†he explained the truth hurt far more with only a single galaxies worth of troops and equipment filling out these troops. “I am willing to trade away the majority of my Clan’s naval strength to keep it operational much like your Blood Spirits once did.†He explained “now I am willing to overlook your previous outburst but further trouble will not be tolerated. Do I make myself clear quiaff?â€
“Aff, Khan, quite clear.†He said
“Very good, the bidding process begins in three days time, have your bid ready.â€
***
Over the next three days Alex avoided Sarah Campbell like she carried the plague he didn’t need to see her and be reminded about what her people had done to his Clan. At the same time he and the small detachment of Blood Spirits that had been allowed into the Goliath Scorpion enclave had tried to learn as much as they could about the others and their bids. So far they had learned that the Stone Spirits and Word of Blake representatives had made similar offers with equipment and the promise to clear out the Nueva Castile for the Goliath Scorpions on the table. The Word of Blake representative Demi-Precentor Robert Zurbin had also approached the Scorpions about moving the Clan closer to Terra to co-habit a world the Word of Blake continued to operate from within one of the Succession States.
The Sea Foxes who had come from the Clan’s Coral Skate Khanate, which Alex understood was roughly representative of a Galaxy in the reorganized Clan, had offered the Goliath Scorpions weapons and equipment for access to their WarShips. When Alex had spoken to the warrior he had admitted that he was surprised to hear that the Blood Spirits continued to contest the Homeworlds believing that all Clan presence had been destroyed. During their discussion they had also enquired with Alex about the fate of the Armageddon, a Hell’s Horses Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, which had been taken by the Sea Fox Clan and then gone missing when the Clan evacuated the Homeworlds. It had been Alex Lassenum’s duty to inform the Sea Fox warrior/trader that the Armageddon, its crew and passengers currently served the Society within Clan space with the ship itself known to be a Society Research facility which would no doubt enrage both the Sea Fox and Hell’s Horses Clans but there was little he could do.
From the Fox trader Alex learned that eight other Clans, not including the Stone Spirits, remained active in the Inner Sphere and periphery and almost all of them had given up hope of returning to the Homeworlds instead they had continued to strengthen their own positions, deepening their ties with the worlds they had conquered and routing out the Society threats that still remained within their Toumans. In some ways Alex hated the other Clans for abandoning the Homeworlds but in others he envied them for their current good fortune.
When it came to the Blood Spirit bid Alex found himself sitting in the meeting room once more waiting for Khan Ingo Yeh. He could not offer the Goliath Scorpion survivors the weapons or resources that the others had offered instead he had chosen another tactic – hope. “Star Colonel, welcome†Yeh began
“Thank you Khan†Alex began “I am not here to offer you weapons or resources.†He said judging Yeh’s reaction he could tell the man wasn’t too impressed “my reasons are simple. A Clan that can’t stand on its own is not a Clan.†He pointed out “I have heard that the so-called Stone Spirits have offered to conquer Nueva Castile for you Quiaff?†Yeh nodded “and once they have finished the will leave you in peace Quineg? It is not our way to abandon what we have won in combat.â€
“Not counting your personal prejudice against them.†Yeh noted “we do not have the resources to police the Nueva Castile so it is not something I was considering.â€
“While I hear that the Sea Foxes are willing to give you the equipment you need.†Alex carried on showing that his people had paid attention to what the others were willing to provide. “While the Word of Blake, your wildcard invitation, are willing to offer you a place in the Inner Sphere.â€
“Aff†Yeh admitted impressed that the Blood Spirit warrior knew so much.
“You do understand that if you took their offer you would never be a Clan again. The Word of Blake were once part of ComStar which was bad but actions that the Word took in the Inner Sphere have made them Dezgra to all Clansmen.â€
“We are not currently considered Clan. We were Abjured. We are Dezgra too.â€
“Because of the Serpents, my Clan is willing to overlook that decision.†Alex admitted he didn’t for certain know if the Old Khan would agree with him on this choice but her choice to fly all Clan flags on Colleen, including the Wolverine’s, made him think that she would. “We cannot help you conquer this nation it would waste resources that we do not have. However, we could offer you a place back within the Homeworlds.â€
“Explainâ€
“Return with us to the Homeworlds. You will be given territory on our world†he explained “there the Goliath Scorpions will stand with the Blood Spirits.†He suggested “if your Clan fights alongside mine you will be able to rebuild at a pace your people are comfortable with and when the Homeworlds are once again ours you will have won your right to be part of them.â€
“And what of the others?â€
“You promised them a weapons demonstration correct?â€
“Aff†Yeh admitted all of the parties wanted to see the Cruisers in action.
“Then you give them one.†Alex said coldly taking Yeh by surprise by the change in Alex’s demeanour and the immediate edge to it.
***
A couple of days later the Goliath Scorpions had gathered all of the parties together in the main auditorium along with several of the designers of the WarShips and Scorpion traders. Yeh had ordered his people to mingle with their guests but the numbers of Scorpions had also gone a long way to hiding a number of Blood Spirit warriors who were among the crowd. To maintain security the Scorpions had deployed several Elementals in full Battle Armour around the room, though no trouble was expected, Khan Yeh was apparently taking no chances. On large screens images of what the Scorpion WarShips were doing near Granada’s moon. Alex Lassenum remained near the other negotiating parties waiting for the right moment he glanced across at Khan Ingo Yeh who nodded ready quickly Alex Lassenum acted raising his communicator to his mouth “Echo, Delta, Tango†he said speaking the code phrase which translated simply to “Execute Designated Targets†without a moment’s hesitation Alex drew his sidearm and pointed it at the back of Demi-Precentor Zurbin’s head pulling the trigger on the pistol sending a burst of shots into the Word of Blake officer. He spun quickly smashing the weapon into the face of Sarah Campbell knocking out the Star Colonel. However even as Alex surveyed his immediate successes in taking out his two rivals a large blow slammed him in the back rolling out of the fall Alex twisted and got back to his feet only to see the bloodied Demi-Precentor Zurbin standing there looking enraged. Half of the man’s skull appeared to be missing since Alex’s attack and instead a massive metal plate had been exposed. The man’s eyes had an almost demonic red tone to them. Not hesitating Alex fired another burst from his sidearm into the man’s chest shredding the clothing and skin there but this time Zubin didn’t go down instead he looked at the bullet holes and the blood oozing from the wound before raising his right arm towards Alex where his hand had been a large barrel of a concealed weapon had been exposed. Even as Alex fired again he shouted at the Elementals to act as Zubin’s concealed laser blast tore across the space between him and Alex narrowly missing. Immediately the two Goliath Sorpion warriors fired bursts of weapons fire into Zurbin from their support machine guns knocking the man to the ground for a second time. Unfortunately there was no way for the troopers to control the spray of bullets and nearly a dozen other Goliath Scorpions were struck by the weapons fire some fatally. As Khan Yeh crossed the room the entire facility shook as heavy weapons fire struck the ground nearby.
“You said this would be as bloodless as we could make it.†Yeh said accusingly looking at Alex as medics rushed in to tend to the wounded.
“I didn’t expect a monster to rise in the place of the man†he said noting that the bombardment was continuing outside. “What is happening outside?â€
“None of them expected the WarShips to be so close our shuttle transmissions put them off unfortunately his people are still active and moving away from their landing sites.†He explained looking down at the fallen Yeh had not agreed with Alex’s plan to use their WarShips to bombard all other visiting parties and to hide where the Goliath Scorpions were going but had eventually agreed. He hated targeting the Sea Foxes most of all but there was no way to inform them of their plan without the others finding out. The four Scorpion II-class Cruisers had positioned themselves above the Clan’s enclave running without their main sensors or transponders active instead leaving small craft near the moon to provide fake readings.
“Fine, we will do it the old fashioned way†Alex Lassenum decided raising the communicator to his mouth “Lassenum to all Spirits get to your Mechs.â€
***
Nearly an hour later Alex Lassenum was in the fight for his life. He was seated in his Osteon OmniMech and locked in a battle with the Word of Blake unit while surrounded by Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion units. Despite the orbital bombardment which struck their landing zone the Word of Blake unit had survived and were at this moment pressing against the Clansmen hitting far harder than they had expected. What did not help was that each of the Word OmniMechs appeared to be of classes that were not in any battle library available to the Clansmen they faced meaning it was nearly impossible to guess their tactics.
As a group of tightly packed long range missiles slammed into his Osteon Alex turned to see a Goliath Scorpion Linebacker fall under enemy fire. He turned on the strange looking OmniMech that had attacked the Linebacker and looked at his sensor image from what he could tell it was it was no heavier than fifty tons and had particle cannon weaponry with some sort of blade attached to one of its arms. That made the Mech at least thirty-five tons lighter than his own assault design. He targeted the enemy design with his Mech’s four large pulse lasers and burned down the side of the enemy BattleMech burning the armour and removing the Mech’s right arm and leg under the vicious assault Alex’s immediate fire being too much for the enemy OmniMech. Even as the enemy fell his OmniMech was hit by two gauss rifles which tore over the torso of the Mech ripping into the armour. Turning he saw something that resembled a King Crab in some ways but had its arms arranged above the chassis instead of below Alex’s warbook named it as a Vanquisher just before two red laser beams burned into his Osteon’s right arm. Alex fired a group of pulse laser blasts into the one hundred ton BattleMech burning its armour as he cut to the right as his Mech cut through the undergrowth a group of particle cannons from a Word of Bake Brutus Armoured Vehicle cut into his Mech. Firing his pulse lasers again this time into the tank he felt a wave of heat rushing through his cockpit glancing at his sensors Alex knew he was in trouble with rising heat and slowly being surrounded by enemy unit’s.
“All units FIREFLY, I repeat FIREFLY†he commanded calling the retreat code “enclave command Omega Delta on my position in two minutes!†He commanded giving the code for further orbital bombardment as he began to try and back away from the enemy this time only firing two of his pulse lasers this time into the Vanquisher.
“Star Colonel Lassenum repeat your last!†The command base’s radio officer repeated Alex cursed inside his cockpit at the man’s use of his name hoping that the Word of Blake hadn’t penetrated their communications. He was snapped out of his cursing as two more gauss rifle slugs slammed into his Osteon’s ferro lamellor armour.
“Fine I’ll spell it out to you!†Alex snapped “all units are to fall back†he said looking at the cockpit clock “and I want orbital bombardment on this position in two minutes!â€
“That is not in the Clan’s agreed engagement instructions†the man replied a moment later.
“I don’t care we’ve broken Clan Engagement Rules already today doing you stavag! Tie your targeting on my transponder, find this position and get those ships to fire when I asked.†He demanded firing his weapons this time into the Brutus which had turned its attention on a Blood Spirit Adder savaging the light OmniMech some how the light Adder remained standing under the assault. Around him he could see units were trying to disengage but that the Word of Blake were continuing to press. Taking a chance he launched the Osteon into the air flying into the centre of the enemy formation crashing down on top of a squad of Longinus Battle Armour troopers scattering them. He looked down at his clock and saw 01:30 displayed he twisted the Mech’s torso firing two pulse lasers into one unknown OmniMech before twisting the other way and firing another two pulse lasers into another target as weapons fire continued to fly all around him. The momentary confusion caused by his jump now over as an autocannon blast scattered across his Mech’s armour causing little damage he smirked thanking the Ferro Lamellor not for the first time as he twisted to face the enemy Mech and fired both pulse lasers again this time at his newest attacker with one connecting with its target he looked at the clock 01:00.. 00:59 ignoring further targets he jumped his OmniMech into the air trying to reverse his jump as missiles flew towards his Osteon. Landing near his original position he immediately jumped again 00:40 this time stopping to turn and engage another enemy Mech this one identifiable as a lightly armoured Excalibur which his pulse lasers had little trouble exploiting as they burned through the armour triggering an ammunition explosion. Before the enemy Mech succumb to its internal explosions another gauss rifle shot flew between the two Mechs ripping up the left arm of the Osteon destroying one of the large pulse lasers. Alex Lassenum ignored the damage firing another barrage of pulse laser fire this time into a Word of Blake hovercraft before launching into the air again 00:20 remaining.
He looked at his distance to two hundred and eighty metres still too close he thought as more laser fire struck his OmniMech. Ignoring the newest attacker he jumped again intending on increasing the gap as much as possible as his OmniMech rose he felt the Mech rock as more weapons fire struck its back. Only the Ferro Lamellor armour stopped a breach in the torso armour while one blast struck the Osteon’s head. On any other OmniMech Alex had piloted it would have meant that he was a dead man but not the Osteon with its torso mounted cockpit. Unfortunately the loss of the head section also saw most of his instruments including his clock short out as the OmniMech lost its sensors and suffered power failures. Bringing the OmniMech down in a heavy landing he staggered the Osteon forwards as munitions from the orbiting WarShips began slamming into the ground consuming several enemy units in their initial blasts. Alex had no idea how close the blasts were landing to him so he staggered forwards completely blind as more naval autocannon and naval lasers tore through the ground near the Word of Blake unit annihilating several of them.
As Alex continued forwards he couldn’t see the bombardment but he could feel it as the ground continued to shake for several minutes he just continued walking the Osteon in the same direction hoping he was heading the right way. He felt something strike his OmniMech and then what felt like a weight move over his Mech’s back before he could react he heard someone tap into his Mech’s communications system “Sir, you can stop the bombardment has broken the Word’s back and the JumpShip has left the system, it’s over.†The voice stated after a moment he realized that an allied battle armoured trooper had landed on his OmniMech.
“It is over for now†he said wondering if they had made another enemy.
Medical Ward, Washburn Royal Infirmary
Washburn, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
18th October 3109
Duchess Lucy Marik lay on her side looking across the bed at the small medical cot where her daughter Kaylee Marik quietly slept. Behind her father sat on a chair watching his daughter and newest grand-daughter Duke Bernard Buckwell had remained quiet until now “does he know she’s been born yet?†He asked
“Yes†she said “he’s surprised at what one night can produce but he sounded happy in the message I got.†She replied surprised that her husband’s guards and spies had done as she requested and kept quiet about the pregnancy. “He said he will have to order a review about our security arrangements here.â€
“Over my dead body†her father replied “although he has a point.†He admitted why the guards had not reported what they had to have known was beyond Bernard Buckwell he hadn’t tried to buy them off but it appeared that these men and women were more loyal to their Duchess than their Captain-General something that likely would not continue.
“Whatever†she whispered quietly
“Perhaps it is time to reunite your family.†Bernard Buckwell said prompting the conversation in the direction he wished his daughter rolled over to look at him “I love having you hear Lucy. With your mother passing the last few months have been hard I’ve questioned many things but your place is with your husband ruling the Free Worlds League.â€
“Probably not for much longer the elections will see Regulus rule us to our doom they will bring us fully into the conflict with the Capellans broadening our attacks on them. We will see war on all fronts something this League cannot survive.â€
“That’s all the more reason for you to be with your husband and to show a united front for the nation. To bring everyone together little Zach has had enough time to recover from his operation it is time that his brother’s and sisters got to know him, including your newest addition.†He said looking over at baby Kaylee.
“But, what about you, who will look after you if I’m not here?â€
“Your brothers and sisters are not that far away. It’s about time I began to bring Matthew up to speed on how to run this place anyway.â€
“Don’t talk like that†she said scowling at him “you’ve got many years to go yet.†She said not bearing to lose him as well as her mother. Lucy Marik knew that her father was correct in what he had said ever since Joseph Marik had visited in January she had felt like there was a part missing from her life
Clan Nova Cat Command
Farstar, Nova Cat Occupation Zone
Periphery
25th October 3109
Since arriving back on Farstar Katrine Devalis had been in a worse mood than most of her warriors had seen her since she led them to the world and the invasion of the Draconis Combine. “I should have killed him†she said angrily looking at the reports and then to Galaxy Commander Malcolm West, her strongest supporter and the commander of Zeta Galaxy.
“Unfortunately the Khan is well within his right to recall the 450th Assault Cluster and the 109th Striker both commander require rest and refit which we still struggle to accomplish here.†West replied “the four clusters of additional troops that you brought with you should offset their loss.†He spoke of them like a combat loss.
“Two combat hardened commands replaced with four Clusters of men and women who have not seen enough fighting and have too many vehicles among them.†She said disgusted by her replacement units both the 450th and 109th had bled to hold this territory, though she wondered how dedicated they were to her cause.
“Then we blood them and show the Draconis Combine that there is more in these commands that inexperienced warriors. I especially look forward to the debut of the Strix and the SM-6 they should work well together.â€
“Aff, the Khan certainly must believe that considering he allowed their developments in the first place.â€
“They are simple weapons†Malcolm West said “we could never use them against the other Clans but against the Inner Sphere, it is something they will never expect.†He said relishing the new surprise the two vehicles, which were equipped with stealth armour, would bring to a new surprise to the Draconis Combine.
“We will send them to Leyland and Harshill and show the Combine that we still have claws.â€
“The Sixth Sword of Light and Third An Ting are deployed over those two worlds.†West cautioned her.
“Then our four new Clusters will have their work cut out.†She declared smiling “deploy the Aspect of Glass with our troops they will take care of any naval resistance and provide aerospace fighter support but no naval bombardment, we are not barbarians.â€
“I will ensure the ship’s complement is clear on your command.†West said leaving the room leaving Katrine Devalis to ponder her next move, despite Khan Canin Rosse’s efforts her people were stronger than ever, she would prove to their Clan that the Nova Cats had the might to take on the Draconis Combine and win. A few days later the the new Cluster available to the saKhan assaulted Harshill and Leyland assaulting the veteran command of the DCMS losses were high among the troops of the Seventieth Nova Cat Roar Cluster and the Sixteenth Nova Cat Vision Cluster but overall the operation was a success with the Sixth Sword of Light completely destroyed in the fighting and the broken Third An Ting Legion forced into retreat.
Elsewhere the Nova Cats expanded into two of the worlds of the Cat’s Tail further expanding the Nova Cat’s influence over their periphery region. The Nova Cat’s expansion both at their Den and in the Occupation Zone further shows that the Clan are not ready sit quietly on the sidelines.
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I nickname this month Clan November
First Battle of Donegal
Donegal, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
2nd November 3109
Clan BattleMechs and DropShips fell through the sky as Clan Jade Falcon launched an invasion of the Province Capital. Above the planet elements of the Fifteenth Lyran Guard Fighter Wing, Lyran assault DropShips and the Aerospace Mercenary unit Agatha’s Protectors were dying attempting to stop Jade Falcon aerospace forces and the WarShips Emerald Talon and Star Ranger as they moved in on the planet.
On the ground at the Lyran’s command tent General Juliet Simms tried to marshal her own Fifteenth Lyran Guard, the Planetary militia and the mercenary command Blackledge’s Iron Hand. “Sang-shao Blackledge your people are to hold the east flank of the capital, General Scanlan’s Militia will hold the centre while my Fusiliers will hold the west and act as a flanking element capable of supporting either other force.†She said confidently the Fifteenth Lyran Guard was significantly larger than either other unit employed in Donegal’s defence.
“What good is holding the city with three WarShips appearing over head? We can hold their ground forces but at the threat of Orbital Bombardment we cannot hold.†Sang-shao Matt Blackledge argued the mercenary was in the fight for money not glorious death.
“We only need to concentrate on the three clusters that are making landfall†Simms explained “the planetary defence grid will defend us from the WarShips.â€
“Defence grid?â€
“You did not think the Commonwealth would leave us so unprotected did you Mr Blackledge?†She said smiling fearsly “the Falcons proved at Arc Royal that they are becoming a beast that the Commonwealth will struggle to control in the future so we have taken efforts to protect certain worlds. On this very world there are eighteen Mark VIII Kraken Defence Missiles each more than capable of punching a hole in those WarShips armour.â€
“That could bring bombardment down on us†the militia commander General Pike Malone stated showing his surprise along with the mercenaries.
“The missiles will only be used if the Falcons settle into orbit over our cities or their ground forces are going to prevail. One final act of defiance from Donegal†Simms said proudly.
“My people have family on Donegal! We cannot jepordise civilian lives just to prove we will not roll over to invasion.â€
“We must and we will, the decision has been made and it was made by those with more power than either you or I.†Simms pointed out “if we believe the Falcons will prevail those missiles will fire.â€
“Is this why the Fifteenth was sent here to replace the Fourth Donegal Guards? And the Thirty-sixth moved off planet? For one act of defiance?â€
“The Fourth Donegal were needed on Westerstead following the floods last month hundreds of people have benefitted from their presence there. The Thirty-sixth were needed to shore up the defences on Tharkad.
“Should Donegal fall…â€
“General Malone, Donegal will not fall.†Simms stated angrily “now you have your assignments†she said as the ground around them shook they all looked at the entry where an officer appeared.
“Mam, the Jade Falcons have employed artillery.â€
“Already? They seem confident.†Simms noted marching out of the tent leaving Sang-shao Blackledge and General Malone alone.
“If they break through our lines, bring your troops… and your families and bring then to our lines. I will do all I can to get everyone out of this mess.†Blackledge promised the militia commander.
“You’re a mercenary, Colonel, I should be the one making that offer to you.â€
“General, with respect my people have more experience and better weapons.†He said nodding his head towards the older man “if everything goes to hell don’t trust that guard to keep your people safe.â€
The three Jade Falcon units assaulted the Donegal defenders intentionally striking the Lyran Guards positions pressing them in waves with BattleMechs and ProtoMechs leading the charge with artillery and combat vehicles supporting them. The Lyran Guards held firm for the first three days of the battle however as the days wore on they began to break. Holding the Falcon’s flank was Star Colonel Stannis Rosse and the Fifth Ebon Guard Cluster. Stannis Rosse and his troops who had been taken by the Falcons in their efforts to rebuild and were of a greater quality than most of the Falcons present and pushed through Guard lines until they reached the Guard’s command areas finding General Simms command lance a quartet of Zeus Assault BattleMechs.
“I am General Juliet Simms commander of the Lyran Guards, your troops presence here and the actions you have taken will bring the might of the Lyran Commonwealth down on your Clan.â€
“And I am Stannis Rosse of the Falcons you will come down on us just like you did after Arc Royal Quineg? You are but lambs to our slaughter, prepare too die.†He said from his Turkina Assault OmniMech’s cockpit even as the fighting continued around them.
“Your forces cannot take Donegal there are other units which will stop you.â€
“They haven’t stopped us yet†Rosse stated
“But they will with my help†she stated back. Around the city and in the mountains beyond capital missiles launched from their silos heading into the sky above them assaulting the Star Ranger, a Peregrine II-class Corvette, above several of the missiles were shot down by the Ranger’s defences before several made their way towards the corvette slamming into its hull ripping into the armour. One of the missiles penetrated the Star Ranger’s Hull and exploded inside the vessel detonating the small vessel’s fuel reserves blowing the vessel apart.
On the ground Stennis Rosse saw the missiles rising into the sky and ignored them he knew if they were going into space then he could not stop them and if they were going to arc back around and strike the ground then he would soon die. Instead of worrying about the missiles he targeted one of the enemy Zeus Assault BattleMechs and fired his OmniMech’s weapons tearing down the eighty ton BattleMech with particle, laser and missile weapons. To each side of Rosse his starmates joined their fire to Rosse’s and took out the remaining three Zeus BattleMech’s.
Over the following few days the First Battle of Donegal ended with the remains of the Lyran Guards meeting up with the Donegal Militia and Blackledge’s Iron Hand. The defenders continued to hold the majority of the city and the planet beyond it but the Falcons were there to stay at least for the time being. With the Star Ranger little more than an expanding ball of metal the Emerald Talon pulled back from the planet while the remaining Falcon ground forces began searching for any of the defence missiles which the Lyrans had buried under Donegal’s surface. Elsewhere the Falcons captured Biuqui, Krievci, Alma Alta and Cameron from the Lyran Commonwealth as the Clansmen exposed a weakness in the Commonwealth lines.
Clan Council, Council Chambers
Siverdale, Alshian
Alshian District, Rasalhague Dominion
13th November 3109
At a meeting of all the bloodnamed warriors of the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion Star Colonel Josh Snuka felt uncomfortably warm. He was not used to these events instead he had spent nearly ten years on Outpost at the farthest reach of the Clan’s Dominion of control. The last three years however things had changed he had won rank and name and now he was among the leaders of their Clan. Khan Ragnar Magnesson stood in the centre of the oval room as ranks of warriors sat watching him Snuka was a MechWarrior so he, the other warriors of his military branch and the aerospace fighter pilots sat near the front while those of Elemental build sat further back allowing everyone to speak.
“I believe we can accommodate these refugees, the troubles of the Draconis Combine are not ours and we should not interfere, these men and women are already on our worlds. We should be prepared to offer medical treatment and food and be prepared to find them work within our borders accept them into our wider family.â€
“And if they do not wish to contribute, Khan, what then?†Another warrior asked challenging Magnesson’s words.
“Then we ship them out back to the Combine and let them rot.†The Khan answered which was received with several stamped feet as people showed their appreciation for his words. “We could use men and who are looking for an honest day’s living. Those who want to be here will become productive members of our society.â€
“My Khan there is already raising crime on Buckminster and Accrington†another Ghost Bear warrior near Josh Snuka said he was an older man who looked like he had seen many battles. Khan Magnesson stepped closer for a moment glancing in Snuka’s direction he suddenly felt much warmer.
“We will deploy a Claw cluser to each star system to shore up security and support the troops on those worlds.†The Khan said again another two thumps of the floor followed as several bloodnamed warriors agreed with him. The Khan stepped away heading back to the middle of the room but as he stepped away answering another question Josh Snuka felt his tempreture rising even further he couldn’t take it it any more and stood up gaining the attention of the Khan for a moment “yes, Star Colonel…?†The Khan asked looking at him but not knowing the name all eyes turned on him for a moment and Snuka’s felt like the unbearable tempreture would continue to rise.
“My Khan, may I have a moment please, a call of nature?†He said making up an excuse such occurrences were rare but the Khan must have been able to see his discomfort and he nodded. Josh Snuka then took the last step that he ever took as he moved the explosives grafted to his bones exploded literally ripping Snuka and the entire Bloodnamed council to pieces killing the Khan, saKhan and Loremaster along with a hundred others in a fireball.
Clan Raids
Minette Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th November 3109
With Canin Rosse still recovering from his wounds following the Circle of Equals with Katrine Devalis the Galaxy Commanders of Xi and Omicron Galaxies take it upon themselves to launch Trials of Possession against the Federated Suns with the worlds of Rentz and Kiza targeted by Xi Galaxy while Omicron Galaxy target Gronholt and Hoonaar. Each world is targeted using standard Clan Trials of Possession which the AFFS defenders agree to fight alongside. The AFFS lose control over all four worlds but launch a counter attack recapturing Rentz and the world of Morven from the Nova Cats using the same tactic as the Clan warriors.
Clan Trials
Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
24th November 3109
In what could only be described as a test of loyalty Clan Wolf deploys the ten clusters that formerly belonged to the Mountain Wolf Clan against the Lyran Commonwealth targeting the “Dubhe Sailent.†The two Wolf Galaxies fall on their former Steiner allies and the mercenaries supporting them and in five rapid strikes they bring Dubhe, Callison, Wyat, Alchiba and Milton into Wolf territory.
The former Wolves allow the Lyrans and the surviving mercenaries to withdraw from the worlds with their equipment and all personnel who wish to leave showing there is still warden leanings within the units. Although the actions in taking the worlds and bringing the Clan closer to Terra convince many that their ties to the Inner Sphere are gone.
Free Worlds League Elections
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
30th November 3109
The Free Worlds League elections had been stalemated for hours with Duke Joseph Marik equalled with Prince Lester Cameron-Jones on votes to become the next Captain-General. If there was no decision made then Joseph Marik would by default remain the Captain-General which many were happy for it to continue. Sitting with his wife Duchess Lucy Marik the Captain-General had been quite confident until Prince Lester Cameron-Jones had taken the floor.
“I understand that many of you do not trust me to lead the Free Worlds League. Many of you believe I have profited from the troubles that have befallen the District of Oriente.†He said hearning a murmur around the room as many agreed. “You also believe that if I were to become Captain-General that I would lead this entire nation into war with the Capellan Confederation.†He said seeing many agreed with that thought “but Duke Marik has something hidden as well for example how his son Zacheriah has recently recovered from a near fatal condition.†He said looking over at the Captain-General “what many of you do not know is that Duke Marik agreed a deal with Clan Sea Fox to treat his son and in exchange he has agreed for them to take control over Ideyid, Shasta and Mundrabilla.â€
“That is a lie†Joseph Marik said standing up “I have provisionally agreed for them to open trade outposts on those worlds but their local governments remain in control.†His admission went around the room rapidly and he could tell that it was not a popular decision. “The Sea Foxes have agreed to work with us to improve our health care systems throughout the Free Worlds League and the cost will be minimal to our nation.â€
“For a continuing fee perhaps you’ll give them more of our worlds!†One said
“No worlds have been given to the Clan and no worlds will be.â€
“Until they decide to take them†Lester Cameron-Jones said deciding to speak out what many of them were thinking. “It’s obvious we cannot trust Duke Marik to be completely honest with this Parliament and you do not all believe in me. So what are we to do?†He asked looking around the room “I will show us the path, something that is different from what we currently face and a true departure from what has come before and a true trust in democracy which this Parliament so trusts in.†He said glancing over at Duke Joseph Marik with a knowing look on his face Lester would not be Captain-General today but neither would a scion of the Marik family. “So I throw my support behind the one person in this room who has gained the full backing of their nation and I hope you will join me in supporting Prime Minister Abraham Ledford as the new Captain-General of the Free Worlds League.†He said turning towards the stunned leader of the District of Bowang.
The support from Abraham Ledford grew over the next few hours until there was nothing that could be said or done that could overturn the decision. By the end of the day the man from the once insignificant world of Bowang was now the new Captain-General of the entire Free Worlds League.
NOTE: The Ebon Guard unit seen on Donegal is completely under Jade Falcon control. It is one of the units that the Falcons took from the Ebon Guard as part of Trials of Possession a couple of years back.
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Finally an update with some Falcon trouble from marauder and some trouble for the Draconis Combine by Vition - thanks to both for their contributions
Command and Control
Snow Raven, Snow Raven-class Battleship
Dante, Raven Alliance
5th December 3109
“My Khan, we have received the Dragon’s response,†his commtech reported, forwarding it to the khan’s console.
Reading the reply, Khan Vir Sukhanov looks up, “It is as I expected, they have rebuffed our last proposal, they will not budge. The Dragon has brought this on themselves by refusing to surrender the systems rightfully ours. Send the order to begin Operation Portent. Then prepare the jump to Kazanka.†It was time to fulfill his promise to the Alliance.
The Snow Raven along with its escorts jump through the occupied zone, using an uninhabited star as a quick stop before using their LFBs to jump to Kazanka.
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Shortly thereafter, seven of their nine galaxies move around the occupied zone, with four of them preparing to begin the invasion. Gamma and Delta Galaxies are preparing a pincer move to cut off the Combine’s easy access to the rest of the pocket. While, the Outworlds and Long Road Galaxies were preparing to push into the pocket itself each of these four are bolstered by a trio of warships, a Potemkin-class troop cruiser and a pair of destroyers, frigates, or cruisers. This causes the borders with the Federated Suns and the periphery to be lightly defended, but the Federated Suns focus on the Combine and Confederation and the periphery having been scoured of pirates, neither are considered threatened.
The rest of the fleet had been assigned to one of four groupings, the Fleet Command Star, Montbatton Naval Assault Star, Corsair Star, or the reserve Cruiser Star. The Fleet Command Star would be positioned in Kazanka to bolster the coreward assault, with the William Adams detached to Chirala as a quick warning for an expected Combine counter-attack. The Montbatton Naval Assault Star would be basing out of Dante, boosting the system’s defenses as well as providing support to the rimward edge of the assault. The Corsair Star would function similarly to privateers, hitting military targets of opportunity as the situations arose. Lastly the Cruiser Star would be sent to bolster the Spinward assault as soon as the many newer ships passed their shakedown tests.
Clan Wolf Raids
Star League Protectorate
18th December 3109
In what could only be described as the first probing raids Clan Wolf assault the Star League Protectorate worlds of Marcus and Nathan marking their first attempts at striking Star League held territory. Both worlds are under defended by the SLDF with only Guard Regiments and mercenary commands defending them but the Wolves have no intention on attempting to hold the planets instead they practice insertion runs and planetary landings against the worlds testing their aerospace defences and the SLDF Guard’s willingness to try and resist invasion. In both cases the Wolves retreat from the planetary surfaces within hours of their initial landings retreating quickly towards their Jump Points. In neither of the attacks do the Wolves declare their intentions, announce a Batchall with the defenders or fight along the lines of Zellbrigen.
Days after the Wolf raids Mizar announces it has joined the Star League Protectorate. The binary holiday world had reportedly been straining under the high taxes levied by Skye and House Kelswa-Steiner and the lack of development in the world and defence from new technologies. On the other hand the Star League Protectorate was offering a standing guard and advanced technologies to defend Mizar from all threats that could come to threaten their leisurely lifestyle.
Second Battle of Donegal
Donegal, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
21st December 3109
In the annuals of history what has been dubbed the Second Battle of Donegal will go down as a footnote. In what was little more than a reinforcement of both the Jade Falcon and Lyran Commonwealth positions turned into a pitched battle as both sides picked areas within striking distance of their opposition and both suffered losses as opportunistic warriors attempted to gain glory on both sides.
On the morning of the 21st Lyran reinforcements landed on Donegal’s North Eastern Flatlands trying to take advantage of the large open area which thus far had been untouched by Falcon invasion. Unfortunately just because an area has been untouched does not mean it is still not hazardous as Jade Falcon aerospace forces harassed Lyran DropShips belonging to the Second Royal Guards RCT as the unit attempted to reinforce the defenders positions there. Only the heavy Lyran aerospace fighter wings and assault DropShips assigned to the RCT stopped the Jade Falcons causing heavy damage to the command but even then a Gazelle was forced into a crash landing which resulted in a fireball which killed the crew and destroyed the crew, a Union-class vessel landed heavily crushing its Mechbay door trapping the Mech Company inside for several hours, and three other DropShips sustained enough damage to force them to return to orbit to effect temporary repairs.
On the evening of the same day the Jade Falcon’s Fourteenth Talon Cluster landed at Mair’s Farm south west of the capital in a cattle field. The landing of the Cluster’s DropShips appeared to be uncontested initially but that only lasted until the last Union C-class DropShip touched down. As the DropShips began to disembark from their DropShips command-detonated mines buried throughout the area by the defenders were detonated instantly killing the first units to disembark and two of the DropShips while damaging several others. The Lyrans were not finished as scout teams equipped with target accusation gear guided in wave after wave of artillery which destroyed the remaining DropShips amd the remaining Falcons of the Fourteenth Talon.
Jade Falcon Raid
Westerstede, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd December 3109
“Gotcha you son of a…!†Staff Sargent Greer could not help but celebrate as he caught the bright green and yellow Puma in his sights. His Wolfhoud 2H computer chimed as he fired his Mech’s heavy PPC, the bolt of energy a brighter white/blue thanks to the added power provided by the capacitor worked into the heavy cannon. Ignoring the surge of heat that flooded the cockpit he added both ER mediums to the mix and was rewarded with a heavy explosion as the Puma’s missile ammo went up, its right arm falling away before the Clan Mech staggered and collapsed in a welter of smoke and fire.
“Danger close! Danger close!†The Mech’s computer, the good ‘ol Bitching Betty had picked up the next Clan Mech before Greer had even brought his Warhound around. It was one of the Falcon’s newer ones that some MechWarriors called ‘Chicks’ due to their stunted, vestigial arms but long legs which gave them a strange appearance and a weird gait when they moved. The Clanner was at the apex of its jump, ATM’s and ER lasers flaring, cutting divots into Greer’s Mech’s armour, blasting chunks of dirt out of the ground around him as several of the missiles missed but enough hit to cause worry.
The 2H packed a wallop but the Mech’s coolant system was working overtime to deal with the heat surge of his near alpha strike against the Puma growling, Greer threw his Mech into reverse, buying space and time, answering the Clanner’s fire with a neat cut across its chest from one of his lasers even that caused another heat bloom to enter the cockpit.
But the gaudily painted Clanner wasn’t giving him an inch, it closed the distance, pelting him with light laser fire that would have murdered infantry but was also slowly nibbling through the armour on his Mech’s chest and arms before it reared back and there was an almighty CLANG then a horrific screeching of metal on metal.
“What the hell!†Greer screamed as he fought to control his BattleMech as metal connected with metal as the Falcon’s BattleMech kicked his Wolfhound with its own.
“Whats up Sarge?â€
“This bastard kicked me!†Clanner’s didn’t kick, they didn’t punch unless they REALLY had to and even then you could see they hated it, but this damn Chick had gone and deliberately charged and kicked. Greer snarled, mashing his finger down on the firing stud for his particle cannon, the blast cutting the Clanner’s ATM ‘arm’ off in a blast but the Chick kept coming as another wave of heat threatened to overwhelm the Wolfhound’s systems Greer slammed the heat override determined that heat would not kill him. “McCaffrey, get your ass over here, gonna need help, my legs shot, knee’s out, lower legs damaged and he crushed some of the coolant flow systems!†He warned properly seeing the damage done to his BattleMech this was a fight he wasn’t going to win alone he just hoped the Falcons hadn’t learned concentrated fire along with their physical attacks, so far it didn’t look like it but who the hell knew with these unpredictable Falcons. Even as McCaffrey turned to assist Greer saw the Falcon BattleMech charge in again this time firing its remaining ATMs and lasers on approach he knew what was coming as the Falcon BattleMech kicked out again at his damage leg snapping the Wolfhound’s limb above the knee. With an opponent willing to engage in physical attacks Greer had no choice but to eject and hope that the Clan warrior would not try and swat his cockpit module from the sky. He ejected he saw McCaffrey’s Hollander II blow the back out of the Jade Falcon BattleMech with his gauss rifle ending the Clansmen’s fight.
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The Falcon assault on Westerstade was deemed a success, a spoiling attack against Lyran forces that had been building up for a presumed counter-stroke against the Falcon advance and further threatened the defences around Donegal and Tharkad. The Turkina Keshik supported by the Falcon’s Nest the Falcons had hit with the intent of raiding, not conquering. The Korbin’s Kommandos Mercenary Battalion and the Lyran Militia put up a brave fight but with aerospace superiority lost to the Falcons they were corralled, cut off and ravaged. With their units damaged and supplies wrecked the Lyran counter attack was thrown into ruin and the Falcon’s withdrew as quickly as they came, only pausing to salvage their own losses, not bothering to take any of the Lyran or Mercenary Mechs with them save to make sure they were wrecked beyond reasonable repair.
Star Captain Victor Malthus saluted as Khan Jana Pryde came into the planning room. Some joked that he was an Elemental that got placed in the wrong Sibko, others said there was Jaguar blood in his veins, but no one ever said that to his face. If they did, they wouldn’t be alive for much longer. The big blond Mechwarrior was devoted to Khan Ward and was part of her Command Star despite his modest rank. Instead of seeking a higher rank, even though it would have been easy to win one, he had spent his time and energy making sure the Khan stayed alive both on the battlefield and off.
His modified Jade Hawk a yellow and deep crimson brute he called ‘Sabertooth’ did little to dissuade the whispers about his blood origin, but no one would argue with his effectiveness.
“My Khanâ€
“Ahh, Star Captain, I wonder if I should reprimand you.â€
“Why my Khan?†He asked with false confusion.
“I had that Mech trying to flank me; once I dispatched her colleague she was next.â€
“Aff, but I saw her as a threat, and you were having too much fun ripping that Atlas apart…I thought it…prudent, after all I did not want to end your sport.â€
She snorted but grinned “Aff, I do enjoy the responsiveness of the Grand Summoner but I miss my Flamberge.†She said knowing fine the new heavy OmniMech was exactly what she and her Clan needed in a Mech.
“You are the Khan; you can take what ever you want.â€
“Hmm… A good point Star Captain… my quarters, fifteen minutes.†Jana Pryde said smiling knowingly at the big warrior.
Star Captain Victor grinned broadly “I will consider that an order my Khan, and will see you soon and I will take the liberty of clearing your schedule... for at least the next two hours after."
"Feeling bold Star Captain?" She asked turning to walk down the corridor away from the big warrior.
"Always my Khan, I am a Falcon" he said loud enough for her and anyone else in earshot to hear Jana Pryde didn’t care if anyone else knew of their plans to couple Victor Malthus’ self confidence could only be good for her Clan’s morale.
In Transit to Jump Point
Wild Swan, Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser
Dante, Raven Alliance
23rd December 3109
Anger and excitement clashed in his head as different aspects of the mission bore into his mind. He and his Thirteenth Stoop were to be invading Morthac, but the glory wouldn’t be his alone, along with him travelled the Thirty-third Raven Battle Cluster and the Fourth Raven Guards. Both were new formations with only a smattering of true veterans though many of the rest were skimmed from the premier sibko cadets of the Alliance training facilities. By all rights and traditions the position of galaxy commander should have been his. But the khan had deemed otherwise.
The upcoming conflict would be a test of each star colonel’s metal, and he or she who was best performing would earn the rank and position of Delta’s galaxy commander. To Bran’s particular chagrin, the Star Colonel of the Fouth Raven Guards was a recent graduate of Columbia Academy on Alpheratz, and not even bloodnamed!
Each cluster had already been assigned their targets, with the Thirteenth Stoop pulling the command battalion of the Ryuken-san, the Fourth Guards targeting the second battalion of the Ryuken-san, and the Thirty-third being left the pickings of the command battalion of the Second Midway Regulars. With the greater chance at glory Bran MacTiernen was ready for battle.
HPG Transmission, Imperial Palace
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
26th December 3110
“My lord Minoru Kurita, I feel the need to update you on the situation here along the Raven border,†Tai-shu Ivor Stollarude, the Warlord’s representative on New Samarkand, began nervously, pausing to gather himself.
“Speak,†the Warlord’s word was quiet but held the full weight of the leader of the Draconis Combine.
“We’ve received reports of the Ravens moving much of their forces around the occupied zone, including mobilizing most of their warship forces around the area. Akira has assumed command of the forces nearby and ordered a temporary reorganization of our warship forces. He’s currently cutting orders to ten regiments, and all ten of the nearby warships. He appears to be readying them for a counter-attack, once the Ravens have committed.â€
“Hmm, the whelp is molting and showing some teeth…†Minoru Kurita muses to himself, to Ivor. “Allow Akira to spread his wings, we were never going to hold those systems anyways, we just needed them to prepare our listening posts. You will serve as his aide; you are to make sure we don’t suffer too much from the conflict. Allow the forces to meet the Ravens in battle, but order them to cede the systems to the Ravens after blooding them. Akira will learn to temper his actions. Keep me up to date on the conflict.â€
“Absolutely my lord†Ivor confirms as Minoru cuts the line. ‘This will be an excellent test of the future coordinator’s strategic abilities’ Minoru thought as he turns back to the reports around the Terran corridor.
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Around the occupied zone and the area surrounding New Samarkand, Combine troops ready themselves for combat. The six regiments in the zone ready themselves to face the Ravens, and are given orders to pull back to Quantraine upon facing superior forces. While another three regiments prepare themselves to counter-attack around the Chirala salient the warship forces are split into two groups, one is sent to Quantraine to make attacks of opportunity against lone or paired Raven warships. The other bases out of New Samarkand, intended to support the operation against the Chirala Salient, and defend New Samarkand itself against potential assault.
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Finally into 3110 with a massive contribution from Vition2 it's time for the Ravens to fly.
3110
[/b]Mechbay, Second Ducal Guard
Oriente, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
7th January 3110
“The LB-X is a better weapon†fourteen year old Javier Halas said looking over at his twin brother Ralph while the two stood facing the paired Persus OmniMechs of the Second Ducal Guard Regiment. One of the two OmniMechs was equipped with the Primary weapons configuration which featured an LB-X autocannon while the other was configured with an ultra autocannon. Neither of them should have been there but it was late and security was far more lax than it should have been, especially for the twin sons of Oriente’s leader.
“Negative, the Ultra is superior, better firing rate means more damage you can knock a BattleMech down with an ultra.†Ralph replied confidently
“The LB-X is more versatile…â€
“Ooooo it’s versatile†Ralph taunted Javier had always tended to read the technical manuals before entering a simulator while Ralph jumed straight to the action. “Read that in a book? This is the real world, brother; the ultra is the future of autocannon tech.â€
“If the ultra was the future why have they not introduced a bigger version of the Rotary?â€
“Because Davion scientists are idiots†Ralph said the Rotary was a faster ultra but it wasn’t his favourite weapon the barrels were too small. “The ultra is the Mech killer.â€
“LB-X†Javier commented again resulting in his brother pushing him by the shoulder “hey!†He shouted pushing Ralph back.
“Hey yourself little brother†Ralph said trying to wind up his brother further.
“I’ll prove the LB-X is betterâ€
“How you going to do that?†Ralph asked rolling his eyes but his brother reached into his pocket and produced a piece of paper “I don’t want to see new numbers.†He said looking up at the two seventy-five ton Mechs in front of him in a couple of years one like it would be his.
“Why not? These numbers are the codes to unlock those Mechs.â€
“Where did you swipe those from?â€
“That would be telling.†He said smirking “we could take a walk onto the firing range and prove which gun is better?†Javier suggested seeing his brother wanted to but hesitated. “Com’on what have we got to lose?â€
“Our pocket money and maybe personal time for life†Ralph said looking up at the pair of Persus’ “but to pilot a real Mech… no more simulators…â€
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Nearly an hour later the two brothers stood aside each other on the firing line their Mechs had joined an exercising lance the firing line and were facing several targets. Javier targeted one of the placards and fired his LB-X autocannon sending a stream of slugs through the target making a neat hole near the edge of the target. Moments Ralph did the same with his OmniMech’s ultra autocannon completely peppering the target with a stream of projectiles. “More effective†Ralph commented as Javier put another accurate shot through the target Ralph targeted another of the boards and fired destroying the target with a mass of projectiles.
“What a mess†Javier said proud of his own fire aiming at another target as suddenly his Mech was rocked by laser and short range missile fire as Ralph targeted the side and back of Persus causing armour damage. “What the hell?†Javier said seeing the damage twisting his own Mech towards Ralph’s along the firing line other Mechs stopped firing in surprise. “What are you doing we’re going to get into trouble.†He said lining up his weapons with his brother’s OmniMech.
“Like we’re not already in enough trouble when father finds out com’on let’s show who is best.†Ralph said lining up his weapons with his brother’s Persus.
“We wanted to prove which weapon was best†Javier said triggering his Mech’s autocannon and long range missile launcher firing at his brother’s OmniMech “but how can you judge a weapon without the other weapons on a Mech.†Explosions blossomed over the other Persus as it took the fire Javier trying to move his Mech away but taking the full brunt of the attack.
“BOTH OF YOU STAND THE HELL DOWN!†A voice screamed into their cockpits but already the two brothers were moving and firing again an autocannon blast from Ralph’s ultra autocannon went wide tearing into a pair of parked civilian vehicles as Javier avoided another attack. The missiles and laser fire fired back at Ralph’s Persus burned armour from the OmniMech’s skin as Javier provided himself to be an able shot. “MechWarriors this is your final warning standdown…†He said but his voice was droned out as the two OmniMechs continued to trade blows. Around the firing range the practice lance began to move to engage the Persus but already the two duelling twins as a flight of long range missiles from one of the Persus missed their target flying over smashing into a nearby office building shattering windows setting the building on fire. “Four… enth lance… get… legs bri… em down.†Came a broken transmission through Ralph’s cockpit moments later autocannons, particle cannons and missiles began to fire tearing into both Persus OmniMechs. Both of the Persus were targeted by two of the Fourteenth Lance’s BattleMechs and quickly their armour was penetrated and both Persus were disabled being knocked to the ground as their legs were torn open by rapid accurate fire.
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Several hours later Duke Jonas Halas and his wife Sherryl stood outside the isolation ward at Oriente’s main medical facility looking through the glass at their two sons who were currently under guard in their beds. Both of the twins had been injured during their “joyride†with Javier suffering a broken leg and arm while while Ralph had suffered broken ribs and a heavy concussion. Currently Jonas had the entire building under guard while the Second Ducal Guard were out in force in the capital. The twin’s battle had caused the deaths of forty-two civilians, most of which were caused by the office building fire, and when it had been announced at what the cause was the population of Oriente already reeling from Capellan Confederation assaults on their system and nation.
Second Terrorist Attack
Galatea Station, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
8th January 3110
A second terrorist attack on the Galatea Station causes nearly seventy-five deaths, including the station’s commander, and damage to two of the attached DropShips as well as damage to several sections of the ship. Without the intelligence resources to investigate themselves the station calls in Lyran Intelligence Agents to assist in the investigation. Despite the misgivings of the Security Chief, and without a station commander to support further investigation, the Intelligence Agents paint a picture that the Draconis Combine was responsible for the attack which causes further heavy raids by the Isle of Skye against the Military District of Dieron.
As the month of January ended Galatea Station received a new commander Leutenant-General Bruce Sheridan, a former WarShip commander with the Lyran Navy, a Lyran patriot and a man with a known dislike of the Draconis Combine and a distrust of the Star League Defence Force.
Battlefield
Morthac, Occupied Zone
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
9th January 3110
Bran revelled in the glory of combat facing the combined might equal to more than three times his Craven’s mass. Arrayed against him were a Panther, Grand Dragon, and a Hatamoto-Kaeru. Expertly utilizing his ‘mech’s jump jets and supercharger he made the Craven look almost like a dancer, moving out of the way of the PPC blasts, missiles and lasers intended for his OmniMech. He struck with near pinpoint accuracy targeting weak points of each of the ‘mechs he was facing slowly causing crippling damage. Regardless of his successes, by the time he had laid low both the Panther and Hatamoto-Kaeru his own ‘mech was pitted with damage showing it had been in battle, though he had managed to prevent any shots breaking through his armor.
“Star Colonel Bran MacTiernen,†a hard feminine voice came through his comms, “I require the use of two points of your aerospace fighters.â€
“Hah, you interrupt my duel, and request help beyond your last bid? Your dishonor knows no bounds.†Knowing that releasing units of his own to assist in victory would only look favorably on him he connects to his bravo aerospace star, “Star Commander Venal, you and your star are being seconded to the Fourth, follow the commands of their Star Colonel.†The last two words of his command coming out as almost a curse.
Given the affirmative, Bran turned back to his duel, noting that with his mind on other things the armor on his ‘mech’s left torso now had some new holes in it. With his focus returned, he side-steps a volley of PPC and laser fire, one pulse laser splashing across his ‘mechs right chest and arm. He returned fire with a pair of heavy lasers following up with AP Gauss rounds targeted into the recently opened hole. Noting the heat spiking in the Grand Dragon he pulled back, but as the ‘mech fell the pilot fired in a last ditch effort, striking the shoulder area of the Craven with its PPC, and severing the arm.
Irritated but respecting the warrior’s desire to hurt his opponent, Bran walked his Craven over to the fallen ‘mech pointing a pair of heavy medium lasers at the cockpit. “I am Star Colonel Bran MacTiernen of Clan Snow Raven. You will surrender to me and submit to becoming a bondsman to the Snow Raven Clan or you will die in your broken BattleMec.†He said levelling the ultimatum over an open channel in response the Combine pilot turns off his targeting computer, indicating their submittal.
Elsewhere on Morthac, the Thirty-third Battle Cluster faced off against the Ryuken-san’s Second battalion, who had managed to lure them into a mine field. With only their ProtoMech and battle armor were immune, all being too small for the mines to register their activity, the Ravens were forced from the field with several of their BattleMechs left crippled as salvage to the Draconis Combine forces. During battle of particularly note, one of the ProtoMech pilots managed to down a pair of Ryuken BattleMech in single combat making many of the warrior’s superiors sit up and look at the warrior and at ProtoMechs in closer detail.
The Fourth Raven Guards Cluster was also led into a trap, though this one was due to limited intelligence. During the assault on the planet they had been charged with defeating the least of the battalions on planet, that of the Second Midway Regulars. Unbeknown to the Ravens the Regulars were bolstered by a pair of armored battalions, typically assigned to the Ryuken. The additional forces caused the Fourth’s Star Colonel Tina Harper to break her bid and call in additional forces from other Raven forces causing further tension in the Clan’s ranks. Even with the additional forces Harper struggled to contain the Draconis Combine forces and had to resort to the use of artillery and airstrikes to cut off the defenders from their supplies and support and force their surrender. Though suffering equivalent material losses as the Fifteenth Stoop, they come away with relatively massive amounts of salvage, enough to make up the losses of the rest of the galaxy. This becomes something of a theme in cadets over the next few years, as Columbia Academy graduates have a tendency to more fully utilize the differing assets they have on hand, though few of them have the requisite individual combat skill to make it above Star Captain.
Conflict Systems
Occupied Zone
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
9th January 3110
As the Snow Raven’s expand their conflict with the Draconis Combine Gamma Galaxy’s Fifteenth Battle, Sixteenth Battle and Seventh Chasseurs clusters assault Milligan’s World, where they expected to face off against the second battalion of the Seventh Midway Regulars and half of the Ryuken-san, a unit recently rotated into the area replacing a Ghost regiment. Fortunately for the Ravens the Ryuken-san had recently been reassigned leaving only a battalion of the Seventh Midway to face the combined might of three clusters.
With a limited force to face the Ravens took the opportunity to bid among themselves for the right to annihilate the Seventh, allowing the Combine unit the time to prepare their defenses and withdrawal. The extra time serves them no worth as they face elements of the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Battle Clusters, a portion of which cuts off their retreat. Against such overwhelming odds from a superior equipped and trained force the battalion is destroyed causing little damage to the Ravens. With the planet secure the Sixteenth and Seventh clusters lift off planet to prepare for their second target, Zlatousi, leaving behind the Fifteenth Battle cluster to garrison the world.
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While the attacks struck Morthac and Milligan’s World further another attack struck the system of Rushaven as the Ravens hit the Combine from all sides. Expected to be among the most difficult systems to take, the Long Road Galaxy is prepared to meet the Third Sword of Light Regiment with a battalion of the First Midway Regulars in support. As the Ravens had expected, the battle quickly turned into a grind, with each side maneuvering to cut off portions of their opponents. Although it was seen as a stalemate, the Raven forces are slowly begin making gains as the former Alliance civilian population starts to take up arms against the Combine occupiers making it uncomfortable for the DCMS troopers. With the combination of a lack of reserves and the Ravens refusing to bombard the Sword of Light, the battle settles into a battle of attrition, which without relief for the Combine troops, the Ravens know they will eventually win.
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Corraines was expected to be the easiest of the targets in the first wave, as the Alliance knew there were cells of the old militia just waiting to help take back their world. With this in mind it was used as a testing ground to work up the experience of the three clusters to work together before they assaulted Quantraine, a significantly harder target. The attack went as expected with the First Midway Regulars requesting hegira quickly after the first engagement. It is denied but they are promised repatriation to the Combine after the conflict is finished if they surrender, nearly eighty percent of the survivors choose this option, the rest attempt a suicidal charge against the Raven forces and were quickly cut down, among these, three show bravery and skill enough to be taken as bondsmen.
HPG Compound
Ramgarh, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
17th January 3110
Having recently received orders of his own the operative had been on the lookout for a particular transmission being sent onwards to Quantraine. The routine transmission was routed through the HPG on Ramgarh, explaining the general activities of units in the District, the priority tag already assigned as the district prepared for the invasion of the Federated Suns from near the Raven border. It was simple to amend the document to include just a few extra words in a particular order.
Three days later, the operative left the compound on his normal furlough, but this time would not return to his station.
Bridge, DCS Shiro Kurita, Omi-class Carrier
Quantraine, Occupied Area
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
18th January 3110
With recent reports indicating a full scale invasion of the occupied area, Cho-sho Shogura was pouring over reports around the area. It looked like most of the systems assaulted were already overrun, the only system where the units were holding out was in Rushaven where the Third Sword of Light was still fighting but due to the WarShips in orbit they could not escape the world. He made a note placing it at the highest priority before continuing the report, finally finishing at a security code.
“Get Captain Genji in here.†He said looking up from his desk at the aide who stood waiting for orders. A couple minutes later Genji and his aide appear at the door, prompting Shogura to immediately dismiss the aide. “We have high level orders, your code is required†he said, the two moved across to a wall safe with a digital lock and entered their codes. The safe opened to reveal three sealed, black envelopes each with a code in white. Shogura slowly read off the code as Genji confirmed it inside was a piece of paper titled: OPERATION DANTO.
Sitting down at his desk Shogura slowly read the orders his jaw takes on a set appearance as he nears the end. He looks up to Genji, hands him the orders before ordering “Set course for Quatre Belle at the highest levels of stealth, use the coordinates mentioned within the orders and prepare the jump batteries for forced recharges.â€
Genji glances at the orders, his eyes going wide for a moment before steadying, “Yes sir… these are in the black, what will we do if a drive breaks down?â€
“We will take all precautions but our orders are clear, the priority is the mission.†Shogura replies, had Genji known Cho-sho Shogura any worse, he would have missed the worry hidden behind his steady eyes.
From the WarShip further orders were sent to the Tenth Sword of Light to return to the planet, halting their movement towards the waiting JumpShips and WarShips. And then a few hours later in a series of flashes of light the entire demi-flotilla Shiro Kurita jumped out of the system heading to war.
Trial of Possession
Hoonaar, Expanded Region
Nova Cat’s Den
18th January 3110
As BattleMechs and DropShips wearing the crests of the Sixth Cruicis Lancers RCT of the Federated Suns descended through the atmosphere of Hoonaar the airwaves were filled with a single deep male voice. “This is Colonel David Hayditch of the Sixth Crucis Lancers RCT I declare a Trial of Possession for this world please state the forces that you will defend it with.†He said over the last fortnight the Nova Cats had invaded and captured Olindo, Sodertalke and Maram with similar tactics now the AFFS Crucis March Command on Tikonov had authorized a “proportionate response.†The Sixth Crucis Lancers RCT off Malagrotta had been directed to respond to the Nova Cat incursions with two combined-arms regiments broke off from the Regimental Combat Team and commanded to strike at Gronholt and Hoonaar.
“Our response? I am Star Colonel Samantha Rosse we will defend this world with the Twenty-first Nova Cat Roar Cluster.â€
“We would prefer to limit the collateral damage done to this world. We request a suitable battle site.â€
“You show us great respect today†Rosse replied “Federated Suns commander we will meet in battle in the hills of the southern continent south of our settlement there. I will warn you now that I allow this because of the respect you have shown if you deviate from this agreement at all our forces will fall on yours and destroy them.â€
“We will not deviate, Star Colonel, we will meet you in battle later today and Hoonaar will become a Federated Suns holding once more.â€
“We will see.â€
Hours later the remains of the Twenty-first Nova Cat Roar Cluster were retreating from the planet as the victorious Federated Suns command allowed them an honourable retreat. Elsewhere on Gronholt the Sixth-fifth Nova Cat Roar Cluster had fought its own honour battle and lost to further elements of the Sixth Crucis Lancers.
The respect that the Nova Cats and the AFFS had shown each other proved to many on both sides that these trials were something that could work between a Clan nation and an Inner Sphere one without resorting to all our war. On the Draconis Combine/Nova Cat border an entirely different type of battle was being fought as Katrine Devalis’ Nova Cats invaded Gravenhage and Chapineria completely destroying the Draconis Combine’s Tenth District of Pesht Regulars Regiment in the process.
Trial of Possession
Shasta, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
22nd January 3110
The Clan Wolf Timber Wolf OmniMech fell to the ground flames tearing out of its shattered armour as the fusion engine shielding released the might of the BattleMech’s own power plant against the OmniMech. As the once mighty seventy-five ton OmniMech fell its killer a Clan Sea Fox Mad Cat II Assault BattleMech walked past firing its over should long range missiles at another target.
It had started three days before when the Wolves had arrived at Shasta and initiated a Trial of Possession. What the Wolves had not expected was the Clan Sea Fox trader unit on the planet to volunteer to assist in Shasta’s defence. Unbeknown to the Wolves when Clan Sea Fox had agreed with the Free Worlds League to build trade posts on Shasta, Ideyid and Mundrabilla they had also agreed to assist in the defence. The Wolf incursion against the planet threatened Sea Fox interests on the planet and so elements of the Thirty-fifth Cruiser Cluster had agreed to assist in the world’s defence causing much anger from the Wolf aggressors.
Despite the surprise caused by the Fox inclusion the battle was fought completely by the rules of Zellbrigen as the combined Free Worlds League/Sea Fox defenders resisted the Wolves forcing them from the world and system after a three hour Trial of Possession.
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pfft.... limitations there are none to your imagination.
Into February 3110 - I've got a massive thanks for marauder (Dominion) and Vition2 (Raven) sections here both did a marvellous job with their contributions. And for those who think the Combine is beginning to hurt... yes they are.
Surprising as it is both marauder and Vition2 came up with these sections/ideas themselves. I have no idea if they colluded behind the scenes but they just happened to land at exactly the same time. There are reasons behind it. Originally there was a temptation to delay one section or the other but I decided to run them both at the same time.
You'll also note a lack of the SLDF being mentioned in these updates despite it being a "Clan aggression" story exactly what the SLDF was built for. That will be addressed shortly.
Vition2 has also created the Splendid variants below (which we'll hopefully share soon)
Command Complex, Imperial Palace
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
2nd February 3110
Akira paced back and forth in front of the holo-table in the command center, impatiently waiting for the latest updates from the occupied zone. He was particularly anxious to find out the of the state of the Shiro Kurita demi-flotilla, which had disappeared after sending an unintelligible message. But that wasn’t the only issue bothering him; the Ravens had played their hand well, covering their assaults with heavy warship forces and without the warships of the demi-flotilla they were virtually unopposed in the occupation zone.
Intelligence reports placed a heavy star of warships covering both sides of the zone, severely curtailing potential counter assaults in those areas. Meanwhile the only force still capable of carrying out offensive maneuvers was itself under a semi-blockade, with at least three different Splendid-class warships being seen at the various jump points at different times - they’d even managed to ambush and capture a pair of JumpShips carrying support and combat DropShips to where they were needed.
“Sir, we’ve received the reports.†Tai-Sho Stollarude spoke as he entered the command room.
“And…†Akira asked, the impatience virtually dripping from his words.
“Still no word from Cho-Sho Shogura, and the Third Sword of Light’s last transmission said they were about to lose control of the HPG facility on Rushaven.†And with the loss of the HPG the command would be completely cut off and finished as a command.
“We must do something to knock the Ravens off balance, are the Ryuken-go and Second Genyosha ready to go?â€
“Yes, my Lord, in particular the Second seems to relish the idea of avenging their predecessor.†Stollarude stated mentioning the elite unit which had been surrounded and overwhelmed during the last conflict with the Ravens.
“Good, send them to take Chirala, detach the Takao as an escort. Then have the Ryuken-go target Pondicherry, let them know they will also have warship support. Concentrate the rest of them on Quantraine, we’ll make it a fortress and bleed the Ravens dry if they decide to test it,†Akira ordered.
“My lord, it is my duty to point out that concentrating our forces like that makes them a very tempting target for orbital strikes. It also won’t be long before they blockade the planet, it wouldn’t take long to starve out those regiments. Not to mention while castled up on Quantraine they won’t be able to participate elsewhere, effectively being off the rolls.â€
Akira waved his hand as if the points were worthless, “They’ll only have to hold out until July, with the Katsuragi’s deployment we’ll have the firepower to force our way in and withdraw our troops. Perhaps by then we’ll have another couple of regiments to pressure the Ravens with.â€
With that Stollarude left to relay the orders. As he walked away he had similar concerns the heir did, how could the Ravens be so efficient and coordinated, and how can we make that ours.
Little more than a week later, the DCS Takao fought the William Adams, a Raven Whirlwind-class destroyer. The Raven WarShip put up a desperate fight against the larger Kirishima II-class Battle cruiser, but the Takao destroys the Raven WarShip handily, though the forward sections of the DCN vessel suffers significant cosmetic armour damage. On the ground the Second Genyosha faces off against Epsilon Solahma, which fights as though possessed. The Raven war machines wade into battle using tactics aggressive enough to be reminiscent of the the bloodiest medieval battles, to include using trees and even the limbs of the fallen as weapons to batter the Genyosha with. In the end the ferociousness tells on the Genyosha, with them suffering staggering casualties, but coming out on top, with the cluster being utterly annihilated.
On Pondicherry the Ryuken-go suffers a different misfortune. The Raven’s Eigth Garrison cluster quickly goes to ground, and avoids direct contact with the Ryuken. In space the DCS Okimbo, a Tatsumaki II-class destroyer takes control of the orbitals, but a pair of Raven WarShips descend on the world a few days later. The DCS Okimbo comports itself well, crippling the Bradley before it falls. Here the Ravens do not withhold orbital bombardment, causing heavy damage to the Ryuken causing the survivors to scatter through fear of further bombardment. The Bloody Talon functions as a go-between for different elements of the Raven forces on planet and coordinates ambushes. Attrition here slowly going in the Combine’s favor, regardless of Raven naval support.
Dining Room, Cameron-Jones Residence
Regulus City, Regulus
District of Regulus, Free Worlds League
5th February 3110
Life could not be greater for Lester Cameron-Jones he was Captain-General of the Free Worlds League and his District had more money coming into it than ever before, he had a beautiful loving wife and their first born daughter Anita had just joined the District of Regulas military. He moved through his home and found his wife sitting at the dining room table there was something on the table in front of her that he initially didn’t recoignize but what he did see was his wife had been crying.
“Honey what’s wrong?â€
“Were you ever going to tell me the truth?†She asked before he could question she activated the holographic projector in the middle of the room. It began to play a clip that Lester hoped would never surface. It showed a pair of men dragging an elderly male’s limp body up the side of a Battlemaster BattleMech and into the cockpit before leaving the Mech. Moments later two Wasp BattleMech’s entered the courtyard and opened fire with machine guns strafing the cockpit of the BattleMech as they did charges placed on the legs and arms of the Battlemaster detonated causing enough damage to cripple the arms and legs. “My father was dead before he reached his BattleMech an order that you issued.â€
“Yes I did†he admitted looking at the woman he loved more than anything else in the world.
“Why?†She asked staring at him daring him to lie.
“He would never have surrendered McKenna to you or endorsed Regulan’s annexation of the system from Oriente.†He said wondering how she’d gotten that footage and what she would do next. “I needed to ensure that Oriente and the people of McKenna accepted our rule your father was a roadblock in that path.†He said coldly Saadia looked away from him. “If I had not acted then your father would have failed his world, Oriente would have failed that entire system, Regulus was the only way to protect it.†He said trying to justify his actions. History was on his side Regulus had absorbed much of what Oriente had once controlled including the area where McKenna was situated during Oriente’s conflicts with the Capellan Confederation but his actions had caused a rift with his wife.
“And now you have accomplished everything that your family has failed to do. You are the Captain-General of a united Free Worlds League.†Saadia said standing up he knew she was not congratulating him “for the sake of our nation, of the Free Worlds League and of our children I will keep your secret.†She said angrily “but what we had before today†she said staring at him “is over.†Finally she walked past him leaving the room leaving Lester to watch what remained of the recording of his “victorious†Regulan troops seizing the citadel on McKenna. Now he desired more than anything to discover who had dug up this sixteen year old clip and who had shared it with his wife and make them pay.
Bridge, DCS Shiro Kurita, Omi-class Carrier/Quatre Belle Shipyards
Lagrange Point 2, Pluto Orbit
Quatre Belle, Raven Alliance
13th February 3110
“Sensors!†Cho-Sho Shogura ordered as they completed the transition to Quatre Belle using the coordinates located within the OPERATION DANTO orders packet. His navigation officer had calculated that the jump would leave them danger-close to the Raven’s Quatre Belle shipyards. He had the entire ship at the highest ready conditions within the Combine’s combat doctrines waiting for their emergence into the system.
“Sir, navigation’s calculations were very close, the shipyards will be within range in 32 minutes and 14 seconds at maximum combat thrust. More detailed scans are populating the area now… I’m detecting five operational warships in the area; it looks like two of their new corvettes and a trio of Splendid-class cruisers. We’ll have more details on the defenses of the yards themselves in another few minutes.†Sensors reported, reading off the descriptions the tactical computer was giving him.
“Close the distance; prepare the fighters to begin launching ten minutes out.†Shogura leans back, presenting a relaxed facade hiding the anxiety he felt over the operation. Something felt wrong, the hairs on the back of his neck stood on end moments before all the sensor-connected screens went completely white. Shooting back up ramrod straight, the anxiety clearly showing, “What happened? What’s going on?â€
The sensors station didn’t respond, the three station specialists’ fingers sprinting across their keyboards. It took an agonizing seconds for one of them to speak up, voice trembling, “Sir, 90% of the external sensors have overloaded and been burnt out, the rest of the flotilla reports worse sensor damage… we’re blind.†Shogura paled at the statement in hostile territory and suddenly disaster had struck.
One of the other sensor technicians spoke up timidly, “I might have a solution.â€
“Speak.â€
“We ought to be able to rig up sensors on some our small craft, and route them through the C3 channels. They engineers may not be able to work under the current conditions though.†The tech suggested.
“Give the order, and reduce acceleration to 1.5 gravities. Have a third of the ASF fighters deploy now to provide overwatch until we get sensors back up. What blinded us?â€
The first sensors tech spoke up again, “I can think of two options, the more likely of which is a series of massive neutron bombs. The second is much more worrisome, annihilation devices.â€
Shogura paled even further at that comment. Antimatter, no one had been able to reliably weaponise such a device, that the Ravens may have advanced far enough to produce mines like these suggests far reaching and horrible possibilities. “Order the Teibo to reverse course, and set off back to the Combine with the reports, this is of highest priority.†Even if he failed here, at least the rest of the Combine would know of the possibility and be prepared.
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“Star Admiral, we just detected an emergence wave less than fifty thousand off the yards. Details are still coming in, there are a total of five ships, but one of them is massive, more than 1.5 megatons.†Star Admiral Rhai McKenna received the report as she stepped into the command room in the Quatre Belle shipyards, wiping sleep from her eyes. Rhai’s career had started out strong, having become star captain of the Swiftsure-class’ premier warship of its class before she was twenty-five. But since the last Combine-Raven war and the destruction of her ship, her star had waned, leading her to the command chair of the shipyards. Shortly after the loss of the Sword of Orion she challenged and defeated Adam McCorkell, and in the year and a half since, she had funneled resources to various special projects - the Khan didn’t care, as long as the WarShips were completed on schedule.
“Show me where the mines are†as the display lit up she began running the projected trajectory the interlopers, now known to be Combine warships, including an Omi Kurita-class carrier. “They are going to travel directly through the minefield. Prepare to detonate them when they will have the greatest effect.†She let her staff determine the specifics; they were more knowledgeable about the capabilities of one of her projects. She did not see much use for these in typical combat situations, but they were lucky today, unfortunately the mines were untested.
Noting the Sceptre moving towards an intercept, she commanded them, “Star Captain Gerry, cease maneuvers, you may intercept after the mines detonate.†As an afterthought she added, “You may want to step down your sensors.â€
A short time later a score of blasts lit up her screen, small expanding areas remaining cloudy and diminishing the ability for the station to collect details, but the Combine fleet quickly travelled through them, the smallest of them splitting off from the others as the Sceptre begins moving towards the enemy. As it became clear the Combine flotilla was not stopping, an idea occurred to her, and she walked out of the command station.
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“The first pair of modified small craft are launching now.†Navigation reported, “they should be deploying external naval C3 in another 30 seconds.â€
Cho-sho Shogura waited on anxiously, but outwardly calm as the information feed began showing on the screens. The data was grainy, and not entirely consistent, but it would serve for today’s purpose, the flotilla still had a much heavier amount of firepower than the Raven Force. As the screen continued to populate the area it quickly noted single massive object hurtling through the void directly towards the flotilla, travelling at more than 55 km/s, and less than a minute from the flotilla.
“Weapons! Get a lock on that object, it must be one of their Splendids, and find me the others!â€
“We’re not going to get a hard lock, we don’t have enough C3 small craft active nor in position yet. A soft firing solution is all I’ll be able to manage.†The weapons officer reported, his fingers flying across the screen attempting to narrow down the firing solution.
“Do what you can, and put a flight of bombers in front of it, order them to open up with everything they have across her path.â€
With little more he could do but watch the WarShip’s pass and respond to its damage, Shogura leaned back into his command chair, forcing himself to relax. His eyes remained steady on the screen, he noted the DCS Susanoo, his Kirishima II-class battlecruiser, move to an intercept position, placing itself between the DCS Shiro Kurita and the incoming warship. Shogura made a note to recommend Captain Dougan for the Bushido Blade for his courage.
The Raven warship continued, laying down fire as it drew within engagement range, the Combine warships returning fire. With the DCS Susanoo covering the DCS Shiro Kurita, he was sure the carrier would suffer minimal damage. Four streams of naval autocannon fire and more than a dozen smaller weapons were released from the Raven warship, two of the larger cannons went wide, missing the DCS Susanoo and DCS Shiro Kurita entirely, but the others bore down directly on the Kirishima II. One stream of fire striking through the ventral portion of the engines section of the warship, the other striking just above the bridge the second stream of cannon fire continued on into the carrier, mauling its port side opening several sections to space before internal doors closed. The drive plume of the DCS Susanoo wavered, before flickering out, though power continued throughout most of the warship and the vessel was able to counter attack against the Raven vessel causing damage to the speeding vessel.
Aboard the WarShip damage and warning lights flared throughout the bridge, reports were coming in about hull breaches in a number of sites along the port side. More importantly it looked as if one of the autocannon shells had detonated directly inside one of the hangers, it was entirely unusable and most of the fighters and small craft had been turned to scrap.
Sensors spoke up, “Sir, I hate to layer on the bad news but our small craft sensor net is up.â€
“How is that bad news?†Shogura asked as he glanced away from the damage reports and back to the sensor displays. A trio of warships moved towards them, in a triangle formation, the exact size and masses of them were unidentifiable as around them a virtual cloud of aerospace fighters and small craft surrounded them. A fourth warship hung well behind and above, staying near the station.
With as many small craft and aerospace fighters in space as his own when it was fully functional, he realized what he got wrong, “They’re not Splendids, it’s the new classes we’ve received reports on, the one hanging back is the carrier sub-class, the one that just passed us must have been a Sceptre sub-class, that leaves the last as either their cruiser sub-class or the battle carrier. We will need to be careful; their capabilities are unknown as yet.â€
“I know how careful we have to be†Shogura snapped back this mission had gone from bad to worse in the space of minutes if the Susanoo could not regain power to its engines then he would be losing at least the battle-cruiser in this fight.
With the small craft sensor net up Shogura ordered the remaining flotilla to remain at ballistic speeds, keeping the DCS Susanoo in formation. Even damaged his force should still be able to defeat the pair of corvettes and cruisers, at which point a massive volley of missiles would overwhelm the defenses of the station - and if the DCS Susanoo could get its engines fully back on line they’d definitely outgun the Ravens and chase down their enemies.
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As the two flotillas closed on each other, the DCS Shiro Kurita slowly fell behind the other vessels, allowing DCS Asuma and DCS Battle of Alshain to take the vanguard, supported by the damaged DCS Susanoo and Dragon’s aerospace fighters with a small number of LAMs and combat DropShips. With the forces coming together, the space between the warships becomes a complete fur ball, with ASF and small craft dodging everywhere and firing every kind of weapon at their disposal. Into this struggle the Kite and Unkindness waded, opening fire against dropships, fighters and small craft with abandon. The Raven DropShips strangely holding back with the Superb as it continues slowly forward.
With the entrance of the two Raven Corvettes the fur ball is quickly turning in favor of the Ravens, as the combat DropShips are quickly destroyed. The DCS Susanoo, still unable to maneuver, lays fire into the Unkindness causing heavy damage to the smaller vessel. It spins attempting to present a new broadside but a lance of Draconis fighters manage to put a couple of missiles into the holes in its hull one of which explodes directly below the bridge.
Noting the fragile condition of the DCS Susanoo, a star of Raven fighters line up missile shots against it, with its anti-missile system down all the missiles hit, finally destroying the power grid within the battlecruiser. With the heavy warship down and the DCS Asuma joining the fray, the Raven DropShips scattered their overlapping ECM shadow diminishing to show a massive battleship. The Arbitration-class battleship Dauntless lumbered forward seeking out the remaining three Combine WarShips. The arrival of the DropShips had swung the fur ball strongly in the Raven’s favor, while the addition of the battleship, Cho-sho Shogura gave the order to do as much damage as possible accepting that this was a fight they could not win.
The remaining combine aerospace fighters turn away from their opponents and begin to drive straight towards the Raven warships. Their singular focus sees many of them shot down before reaching their targets, but quite a few still manage to reach the Raven WarShips. The couple which manage to strike the Dauntless tear off chunks of armor much larger than they should have, the incomplete warship showing some weakness, but continuing on.
Meanwhile the DCS Battle of Alshain maneuvered above the battle and accelerated directly towards the shipyards. The Snow Raven vessel Superb attempts an intercept but is barely able to rake the Combine vessel with extreme range fire before it is out of range. As the Kyushu-class warship continues to near the shipyards, a huge number of capital-scale missiles rise from the station, firing as quickly as they can be reloaded.
The Dauntless with the last operable Unkindness-class corvette move on to strike at the DCS Omi Kurita and DCS Asuma, with the still large number of supporting fighters, DropShips, and small craft, they don’t stand much chance. Though only half of its armaments have been emplaced the Dauntless still has more than enough firepower to decimate the destroyer, leaving the carrier and battleship to pound at each other. The supporting DropShips, though low on munitions at this point target weapons on the hull of the DCS Shiro Kurita as the two massive ships traded blows. As the outcome seems inevitable Cho-sho Shogura overloaded the fusion reactors, ordering the crew to leave in escape pods. The spike in power causes the Raven WarShips to pull back, as the carrier explodes.
The DCS Battle of Alshain seeing the waves of death coming at it continues to maneuver, and releases its last flight of fighters with another companies worth of LAMs, the last in its bays. As they close on the shipyards additional defenses light up, striking down four of the LAMs leaving the eight remaining LAMs to charge down on the facilities below. As they close additional defences light up knocking out half of the LAMs before they can reach their targets. Those that do drop bomb loads of munitions onto the shipyards before converting into their BattleMech modes and opening fire on the shipyard slips causing heavy damage to two of the slips before being brought down by the fixed defences and Snow Raven aerospace forces. In the confusion caused by the LAM attack both the DCS Teibo and DCS Battle of Alshain manage to escape the system.
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Reading through his own damage reports, Star Captain Gerry Harper pondered the amount of damage his ship could have inflicted on the Dragon’s flotilla had his high-velocity tracking arrays been working properly - the primary issue forcing his Sceptre to stay behind. “The Dragon showed its teeth today†he remarked “we can reclaim worlds but they show what they are capable of with this attack.â€
Research and Development
Beta VII, Sea Fox Territory
Occupation Zones
14th February 3110
In the heart of the Clan Sea Fox Occupation Zone sibkos of Fowler Bloodhouse Warriors were being trained not as aerospace fighter pilots, like generations before had been, but instead as the next generation pilots of ProtoMech which would serve the Clan. Alongside them the Foxes had created a new Exclusive ProtoMech Bloodname the “Cook†bloodline while warriors would be able to train as aerospace pilots if they wished their future was aligned towards ProtoMechs.
The Sea Foxes also continued construction of a new type of ProtoMech, the Arion, a unit that appears to look like the Shadow Hawk BattleMech but weighs only fifteen tons. The Arion is armed with an arm mounted small pulse laser, a ProtoMech sized autocannon and a triple tube long range missile launcher giving it reasonable firepower for a unit its size. The Sea Foxes plan use the ProtoMech in their own forces and to sell it to any of the other Clans who wish it.
Border Conflict
Clan Borders
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd February 3110
While Clan Jade Falcon continues to raid their shared border with the Lyran Commonwealth. The Isle of Skye opens up a second front by attacking Clan Wolf’s territory in the Gacrux system with the Second Isle of Skye Guards RCT and the LCS Glasgow in support. Unfortunately the Wolf vessel Razor’s Teeth was in position near the system’s nadir point and it was more than a match for the Corvette.
With its superior weapons array the Razor’s Teeth quickly overwhelms the LCS Glasgow and causes heavy damage to two of the Skye Guards JumpShips before they can escape the system. The Skye Guards DropShips attempt to run towards the planet past the Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser and are torn to pieces by the naval weapons of the Wolf WarShip.
Funeral service
Rasalhague City, Rasalhague
Rasalhague District, Rasalhague Dominion
28th February 3110
The streets of Rasalhague City were lined with silent crowds, the flag of the Dominion hanging from the street lamps was half shrouded in black cloth whilst overhead the contrails of patrolling Aerospace fighters could be seen. The crowds were thickest at the road leading to the Blood Chapel, the Khan and Prince’s final resting place.
At midday, the funeral started. For those who still clung to the ways of the Clans, this was in essence a waste of time, but the Civilians had demanded it, as had the Royal Family, this would happen. Not some quiet ceremony, but a show of unity, even in the face of adversity.
A quartet of four Kodiak’s moved slowly down the main walkway towards the Blood Chapel, all four machines painted a matt black, fitted with an array of dampening baffles and very highly tuned actuators to reduce their footfalls to gentle thumps, whilst giving their pilots extreme control and precision. In their midst was the final member of their ‘Star’, a large hearse which also carried the Prince’s immediate family.
Soldiers and Warriors of the Dominion snapped to attention as the precession approached and then the drums started. At first it was just a single drummer, beating out the slow funeral march of the four Kodiak’s escorting the Hearse. Every fifty metres, on both sides of the procession and dressed in full dress uniform, a drummer stood at attention and added to the slowly swelling rumble that echoed over the silent procession. The slow, sonorous beat echoed off the buildings, filling the air like the slow heartbeat of a great beast or Rasalhague herself as Khan and Prince Ragnar Magnusson was interred in the great and sombre Blood Chapel.
Some civilians cried, others threw flowers whilst ranks of Warriors slammed their boots together, coming to attention and saluting as one. Whilst mourners would not be allowed inside, they could approach the chapel and leave flowers or mementoes outside.
The entire funeral was broadcast across the Dominion and select guests were invited to attend. It was also decreed that the Dominion’s flag would fly at half-mast for a week until the new Prince was crowned and a new Khan and SaKhan elected. To many of the Clan citizens it was a strange procedure to the native Rasalhagans thought it was only fitting.
With the death of so many Bloodnamed there was a flurry of Trials of Bloodright as well as hurried promotions as the Dominion tried to rebuild its near decapitated military. Star Admiral Albert Tseng oversaw the Trials and reshuffling as young Warriors skipped several ranks.
The bombing had the added effect of killing many of the more experienced warriors, three Galaxy Commanders, were dead, a dozen Star Colonels and many lower ranks had been killed or badly injured in the blast, the source of which was still being investigated.
Whilst the public was angry at the loss of the Prince, the military was furious and was a serious effort to constrain the anger of those not at the blast to not lash out. The Watch was heavily involved, scouring the blast site, watching the recordings of the explosion, trying to piece together what happened and what had occurred with Josh Snuka to see just what had happened. His quarters were off limits to all but a few personnel under penalty of death without Trial and the Watch was going over Josh Snuka’s belongings with a fine-toothed comb.
Now the Dominion had many ex Star Captains and Colonels being promoted up the ranks whilst Trials were placed for their former ranks as the Dominion sought to re-establish order in its sundered chain of Command.
A state of alert was issued and entire Tourman was on 6 hours-notice to deploy and move. The Solhama units and PGC’s were also put on high alert with newer Mech’s being issue from the war stockpiles of New Oslo and Bergen, whilst every visiting dropship was halted and boarded before being granted permission to dock or land.
Of course this had a knock-on effect with the economy and the Kroner fell sharply in value due to the slowing of trade. The flood of refugees continued to stream in though from Vega and there were several sharp skirmishes in space between Dominion pickets and Combine dropships detached from DCMS JumpShips that had chased after refugees although the arrival of the Leviathan quickly put an end to any ‘rogue elements’ chasing refugees into Dominion space.
When the Dominion didn’t turn away the refugees fleeing the Vega Prefecture it seemed to open the floodgates as independent Jump and DropShip Captains scented profits to be made from the masses that just wanted to escape the growing chaos and unrest.
Whilst many Captains charged reasonable fees, some took all they could get with the fee for a ‘berth’ on some DropShips, usually just a space on the deck of an empty cargo bay, being ‘what do you have?’ But these Captains tended not to last long, one was killed by an angry crowd and another was replaced in a bloodless mutiny, still unscrupulous Captains exploited the desperate on more remote worlds.
The Dominion, for its part was caught without any preparation for the sudden surge of refugees that now poured across the borders. With the attack on the Bloodnamed there was serious concerns that hostile agents might be hiding with the civilians in an attempt to insert themselves into the Dominion and ferment discontent.
To counter this the Refugees were routed to Toffen and Pulkhua, both of little strategic value and with small populations. Here the refugees would be sheltered, fed and checked for any sign of infiltration. Whilst the camps were established but the number of refugees soon made these camps crowded whilst straining the resources being brought into them.
Toffen – Time 13:30 local
“And you’re live in three, two……â€
“This is Kristen Yansdottir reporting for DNN from one of many refugee camps on Toffen that have been constructed to house civilians fleeing the chaos in the Vega Prefecture.â€
The reporter for DNN (Dominion News Network) was dressed in what could be called field fatigues as she walked through the Camp. The buildings were simple prefabricated ones made of tough plastics that kept the worst of any cold out whilst letting air flow through them. There were tents set up that would serve as large communal eating areas as well as showers and toilet facilities. The area was swarming with civilians, young, old, man and woman, mostly speaking Japanese and shying away when the cameras turned on them.
“As you can see this Camp is nearly full and it one of several on Toffen. Elements of the local constabulary, many equipped with Constable Pacification Suits, have been brought in to make sure that there is no trouble in the camp whilst local administrators are trying to find quarters for everyone and keep families together. I managed to speak with the head administrator of the Camp earlier today.â€
The image changed to a rather spartan office, a man somewhere in his thirties sat behind a desk heaped with reports and data pads.
“Administrator Burke what would you say the main challenges here are?â€
“At the moment our main problems are getting enough shelters built, whilst Toffen is temperate and we have not had much rain, the rains are coming. The inhabitants of Goodwood City have also been kind enough to hold collections of food and blankets to be given over and I had the pleasure of seeing one of our Elementals hauling a big bag full of cuddly toys for the children here.â€
The scene shifted to the outside of the Camp, it was surrounded by forests and there were no obvious fences, just a large ditch surrounding the camp.
“We were also able to speak with several Combine refugees, but at their own request we have had to conceal their faces and voices out of fear of ISF reprisal against family members still in the Combine.â€
The camera view shifted to a darkened room with a figure with a blacked out face, although the person’s build was definitely feminine.
[Kristen Yansdottir] And how are you finding the facilities here?
[Kuritan Refugee] I will be honest, it is not home, but… our home is gone.
[KY] What happened to your home?
[KR] My husband was in the DCMS and when the bombs went off and food started becoming sparse the local commander, my husband’s commander ordered that food be given over to the soldiers by the Civilians as was our duty. But they wanted more and….not just food…
[KY] I… see… and what of your husband?
[KR] He disagreed with what his commander was doing and was punished for it. I and my children had to flee as I knew they would come for me next. But… my eldest… he was caught in a sweep and… recruited. I…I don’t know if he’s… I pray for his safety every day.
[KY] And you say conditions here are not good?
[KR] As the Clanners say neg, but they are not bad. Some young men tried to take more than their share, or asked for ‘favours’ off people in return for food. I had the pleasure of watching some Dominion security troopers beat the crap out of them before executing the ringleader. Since then no-one’s tried to take more than they should.
[KY] And do you want to return to the Combine after this is brought under control?â€
[KR] …I …I have put much thought into it, but… I fled, my husband was executed my eldest taken to serve… no… there is nothing for me there. I just hope there is something here for my children hope is all I have left.
“At this point we had to leave our interview as our time was up but it does paint a picture of what life is like here, and what life was like in Vega. And now, back to Erik back in the studio.â€
Outer System
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
28th February 3110
In a flash of light a solitary WarShip appears roughly 20 AU from the capital of the Draconis Combine. The vessel does not move from its position instead it sits and watches the system a vengeful eye preparing for its moment.
-
And now March. I have a feeling that one scene may gain some attention in this update but it's long overdue and maybe points in a direction of the future. I hope it doesn't overshadow the great work from James Tanaga (right at the start) and from Vition2 (with the conclusion of the Raven/Combine story-arc) I am very appreciative of the continued support these co-writers provide.
I'd also like o introduce the Craven OmniMech designed by Vition2 (with a little help)
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=58228.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=58228.0)
And I'll announce now that the Sceptre and other variants of the Splendid-class (all designed by Vition2) will be arriving soon.
My continued thanks for the support this timeline (my little obsession) gains, please enjoy
President’s House
Gillfillan’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
4th March 3110
President Damien Redburn smiled broadly as he watched Brienne and Natasha Faraday of the Mandrills slowly dance, his wife holding onto his arm. It was their wedding. While Natasha wore a pristine dark green and red camouflage uniform of the Rim Collection Touman, complete with the dark red beret of Clan Fire Mandrill, Brienne wore a simple, yet beautiful, white sleeveless wedding gown. He couldn’t have been happier.
While he acknowledged and respected both married for love, he well knew their marriage had the added bonus of being a political match as well, serving to unite Clan Fire Mandrill and the Rim Collection ever closer. One that he knew would be needed more sooner than he originally thought, what with was happening in the galactic south of the Rim Collection in the days preceding the wedding.
Pirate attacks had long plagued Erdvynn Province and the Lyran Commonwealth worlds to the galactic south, but the threats they collectively poised was negligible until recently. Intelligence suggested a so-called Pirate King had rallied the pirates a year or so ago under his banner, but was scarce on how that was possible.
Until last week.
Last week saw the pirates under the mysterious Pirate King strike multiple Lyran worlds, destroying militia units left and right, and going so far as to taking the so-called Zeta Sisters south of Erdvynn Province for their own. He did not know what the Pirate King had planned, but he had become a serious threat, both to the Lyran Commonwealth and to his own Collection, that much Redburn did know.
But he refused to let said threat get to him, especially on Brienne’s wedding night tonight was a night to celebrate and tomorrow with a time to plan and to worry for the future.
Triage Center, Kerry Hospital
New Belfast, Milligan’s World
Raven Alliance
5th March 3110
Head MedTech Saban entered the triage center shortly after receiving a report from the largest hospital on Milligan’s world, there were a series of medical issues that the hospital was not prepared to deal with. The waiting room had been full, with multiple individuals showing symptoms he was very familiar with and that that alone made him worry.
“You’re here, finally†a harried-looking doctor sighed.
“Give me the details.â€
“We received our first case two days ago, and since have begun receiving more and more, at the rate they seem to be coming in, we’re going to run out of room in another few hours. They are showing signs of radiation poisoning and at levels higher than what should be rendering them immobile. Instead they seem to go into a period of high activity, bordering on mania - going to a gym for three hours of intense sessions, marathon runs, etc. - before finally collapsing in exhaustion. We’ve put them through the standard radiation treatments, but it only seems to increase the radiation levels in their blood. I’m at a loss, and we are rapidly running out of room.â€
Noting the listed symptoms, Saban recognized what they might be dealing with, and if so, then it is possible the entire population of the planet was already in jeopardy. He turned aside speaking quickly and quietly into his wrist-communicator, before turning back. “If what I presume is correct, this is an extraordinarily ancient weapon, from the Age of War. A virus transmitted via fluid which prevents the egestion of radiation until the cells it reproduces in burst. At the time it was responsible for a number of planets being nearly entirely depopulated.†As Saban spoke a series of thuds sounded outside the door. A pair of elementals in full battle armor entered and Saban gestured towards the doctor “unfortunately, those in the lobby are already dead, the virus has populated beyond what treatments can deal with.†The troopers grabbed the doctor as Saban continues, “you, on the other hand, will survive, but we need to determine the proper treatments, as whoever did this may have changed it. You and the other medtechs, nurses, and specialists in this section will be used to determine the proper procedures. You will not enjoy it, but you and your co-workers will survive.†He said as the Elementals dragged him and other staff from the facility before reentering the facility to ‘cleanse’ it.
Shortly thereafter the Fifteenth Battle Cluster sent battle armored and ProtoMech forces to central water distribution sites for each city which had reported the radiation sickness, to include at least one, if not more, medical and radiation-specialized R-teams. As the Ravens attempt to discover what had caused the problems large conventional explosives destroy each of the sites and all of the forces sent to investigate them. At the nearly same time a large force of Draconis troops assault the positions of the remaining Raven forces, devastating them, by the time the initial assault is over, there is less than a binary of the Fifteenth left throughout the world.
In space, the Sixteenth Battle and Seventh Chasseurs stop their preparations for the next attack target and return to the planet as quickly as possible. Arriving two days after the incident they link up with a variety of civilian militias and the remains of the Fifteenth, which is folded into the Sixteenth. The Ravens then begin to annihilate the insurgent forces. At first they seem to have success, but each time they destroy a cell, it seems as though another one pops up somewhere else leading from one bloody battle to the next.
In the last days of March a quartet of SLDF WarShips led by the SLS Shining Claw and the SLS Enterprise escorting a half-dozen Invader and Star Lord-class JumpShips arrive in the outer system. After a short exchange of messages with the Ravens, four of the WarShips and a score of DropShips begin to travel towards Milligan’s World. While tensions between them and the Ravens remain tense, they provide aid to the stricken world’s population - combined the Ravens and the SLDF manage to fully contain the outbreak and immunize the population. How the SLDF discovered the issues on Milligan’s World so quickly is unknown to the Ravens but their willingness to work with the Clansmen to help the civilians of the world gains the SLDF much respect from the Snow Ravens. The power of the four SLDF WarShips and their fighters stop the Ravens immediately attacking the SLDF units.
Kalifie Firing Range
Taurus, Hyades Cluster
Taurian Concordat
7th March 3110
In her first outing in her mother’s Shadow Hawk IIC Nickola Calderon had successfully destroyed six target vehicles with her BattleMech’s mix of pulse lasers and short range missile systems. In the test she had shown that she had inherited her mother’s flare for piloting and BattleMech combat, although in this case she had fought against unarmed target drones and not enemies fighting back meaning the test was an incomplete one.
Standing in the BattleMech bay awaiting his daughter Protector Erik Marten-Calderon watched as the BattleMech reentered its bay and powered down. Seeing the Shadow Hawk IIC again in action had brought back fond memories of his wife Sonja Rosse. He watched as Nickola stepped out of the BattleMech’s cockpit and onto the gantry a few months from her sixteenth birthday she was just like her mother with long dark hair and an athletic frame. He saw she wore shorts and a t-shirt under her coolant vest and carried her neuralhelmet as the lift lowered her from the gantry to the ground and she walked towards her father. “You did well†he said as she hugged him “a little different than the simulator?â€
“Thanks†she said breaking off the hug “not quite the real thing but I can see why MechWarriors love those things so much.†She said walking alongside her father towards the changing room “the power and grace… it’s addictive and the adrenaline is intoxicating.â€
“The less you talk about intoxication the better†she said winking towards her “just remember that does not need to be your life.†He said turning and pointing at the Shadow Hawk “you need to be more than just another MechWarrior.â€
“I know dad†she said standing on her tip toes to kiss him on the cheek “which is why I’m going for a shower then going to Anna’s to study, see you!†She said rushing off towards the MechWarrior changing areas. Erik turned around and looked up at the Shadow Hawk IIC one last time glancing up at the roof smiling briefly in memory of his late wife before heading out of the MechBay.
Private Booth, The Golden Wonder
Haublan, Spire
Chainlane Isles, Sea Fox Territory
10th March 3110
Michael Drummond was a thirty-two years old, average build, with dark hair and was not particularly tall. He could walk down any street in the Inner Sphere or Periphery and would blend in which was perfect for his duties. He entered The Golden Wonder, a non-descript traditional public house on the Chainlane Isle world of Haublan and moved through the quiet bar joining another man who waited for him. The two didn’t say much until a waitress arrived to take their order then again they waited in near silence until their food arrived. It was after they had their food of steaming food in front of them and they were sure that there would be no further interruptions did they actually begin to speak.
“A good plate of food, Alexander†Drummond noted cutting into his chicken which was covered with barbecue sauce, cheese with sides of bacon vegetables and fries.
“The Golden Wonder is one of the better places on this world even since the Sea Foxes took control.†Alexander Coolage said cutting into his own steak.
“I did not see much of their presence†Drummond said continuing to eat.
“Neg, Precentor-Emperious, they allow the people to live by their own rules only controlling the main military forces and certain factories.†Collage said quietly using Drummond’s rank to show he knew exactly who Michael Drummond was.
“I saw what looked like locals with weapons?â€
“Local militias have vehicles and small arms under their control. The Foxes control the BattleMechs, Battle Armour and aerospace forces.†Collage said
“And what of the Whispers?â€
“They remain hidden from view after the debacle on Granada they are repairing as best they can. The Foxes see much of what goes on here but I have been able to route some resources to them but there only a little we can do here.â€
“This conflict will not be won with weapons of war. It must be won by ideas all of your people must know this.†Drummond said quietly “we had a finger or two in the Steiner-Kurita conflict; we have brought down Vega and helped maim the Bears.†He said quiet content with their successes.
“The Whispers sacrifice proved that the Clan Homeworlds are not somewhere we will gain support. There is a conflict which continues there which makes all of those in the Inner Sphere pale in comparison.â€
“I read the reports. Perhaps it is something we can use against the Clans.†Drummond suggested “continue to suggest that there are enemies within their individual ranks.†He said “we cannot win with numbers alone even if we still held Terra and the hidden we could not overpower all of the Succession States and Clans.†Drummond said “at present their armies and navies are growing at an unprecedented rate we must use these armies and turn them against each other.â€
“I have the support of much of the militias in the Chanelane Isles if they are required…†he began before stopping as the waitress arrived and removed some of their plates and placed down two local ales.
“If we need those militia forces the Isles will be lost. No, the information that you get from the Foxes will help us more in the long run.â€
“Aff, I understand Precentor-Emperious†he said in a near whisper Drummond was worried about his second use of the Clan “aff†but remained silent “we have learned that the Sea Foxes have been in communication with the Stone Spirits and Fire Mandrills they almost seem to be acting like glue that holds the Clan factions together in this region.†He explained “they do not accept either faction’s position and would not be subservient to anyone.â€
“They appear to be willing to work with the locals here and in the Free Worlds League.â€
“Only if it benefits them.â€
“So they would not be open to further communication with us?â€
“Negative†Coolage suggested “in fact I believe they would be openly hostile against us if it were revealed who we represented.â€
“Aff as far as the Inner Sphere is concerned the Word of Blake is dead. It must remain that way for now. And have you heard anything further on the Erinyes?â€
“I do not believe it is in this area any longer. When it did raid Chainlane Isles worlds the crew refused my attempts at communications with them.â€
“They remain at large.†Drummond noted “rogues within rogues. Perhaps they can cause trouble elsewhere without our guidance.†He said drinking some of the ale which was thick but not overpowering.
“And Interstellar Expeditions?†Collage asked choosing now to try and learn a few things from his superior.
“Their projects in the Marian Hegemony continue to bore fruit. And their report that Mayadi is a dead world continues to circulate around the Inner Sphere no-one visits and those that do die quickly and quietly.â€
“Good my family remain there.â€
“You should return to see them soon†Drummond said politely knowing that there was little to no chance of such an occurrence happening. “We need to ensure that the Federated Suns turn their attention away from the Benjamin area less traffic in the area would add to our security.â€
“Perhaps the Combine could be persuaded to push on towards Robinson?â€
“With their fighting against the Bears, Isle of Skye and Ravens, I doubt they have the resources to pursue such a fight.â€
“The Ravens or Nova Cats then?â€
“The Ravens appear to be more inclined in attacking New Samarkand than the Federated Suns while the Nova Cats appear to follow their own path and have no real desire for conquest.â€
“Then perhaps we make Benjamin a more tempting target we build up the worlds around Benjamin as being tempting targets which would take their attention completely off Mayadi and perhaps we fortify the system with nuclear weapons?†Coolage suggested
“We have plenty defences for the system if anyone comes to Mayadi they will regret it a hundred times over.â€
Drummond promised the other man as they finished their first ales. “Making Benjamin a target could be exactly what we need bringing the Federated Suns so deep into the Combine would exaust their forces and it could be the push that Dieron needs that one element to shatter the Draconis Combine.†He thought out aloud pausing as the waitress arrived with two more ales.
“And then onto Skye and Marik.†Coolage whispered in response naming their next two targets.
Pirate Point/Near Orbit
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
14th March 3110
After spending nearly two weeks surveying the system from afar, Star Captain Gerry Harper felt confident in his ability to strike hard at the industries at the heart of the Draconis Combine. The primary shipyards between Jimmu and New Samarkand seemed very well defended with both DCS Hyuga and DCS Mulga maintaining station nearby. The other two major orbital industrial hubs in the system located near the La Grange points between New Samarkand and the other two moons were comparatively lightly defended. Both of them seemed to have a half-dozen or so small defensive satellites, and one larger one – though none of these appeared to have capital-scale weapons and were backed up by less than a wings worth of aerospace fighters and few combat DropShips.
With this intelligence in mind, Gerry considered two options: a punitive strike on the shipyards themselves, or a pair of strikes against both the other two industrial hubs. While he wanted to do to the Dragon what they did to the Ravens, he realized he would have very limited opportunity to do real damage to the shipyards before the defending WarShips could respond and with his targeting arrays still causing issues he did not have the confidence the Sceptre had would do the damage necessary to make the attack worth it. With the second option, he felt the damage done would be less directly militarily significant but would cause shortages in other areas which could eventually be felt in the DCMS. The second option also left open the ability to make a significant political statement, the potential to destroy the last Samarkand-class carrier in Combine hands. While primarily a museum piece, it continued to be maintained and held a wing of equally ancient aerospace fighters - a moderate threat in and of itself.
Gerry chose the second option, jumping to the first point and destroying the industrial hub in short order, focusing the Sceptre’s fire on the mobile defense units before retargeting to industrial targets. The defenses fall quickly while Gerry gave the factories themselves five minutes to evacuate before the Sceptre destroyed them as well. Meanwhile the Draconis WarShips attempted to respond to the Sceptre and while they are unwilling to sacrifice an Inazuma-class corvette, the DCS Mulga did load up and jump to the second hub, dropping off its integral aerospace fighter company, two Nekohono’os and an Okinawa DropShip, significantly increasing the defenses of the hub by an order of magnitude.
The Sceptre jumped into the second hub, immediately coming under fire by the pair of Nekohono’os as capital missiles engaged the Snow Raven WarShip filling the space between the vessels with explosions and fire. Gerry released his aerospace fighters and combat capable small craft, the two stars worth of craft functioning to bolster the integral anti-missile systems of his WarShip allowing the Sceptre to concentrate on the defending craft. Regardless of the craft, AMS, and screen launchers, a pair of Kraken’s fired from the Nekohono’os detonate against the skin of the Sceptre blowing open parts of its hull damaging systems and killing members of the Snow Raven crew. Despite the damage caused by the defenders they are no match for a WarShip the size of the Sceptre which quickly deals with the remaining crews giving the factory staffers five minutes to leave their posts before destroying them.
Its primary mission complete the Sceptre then turned towards New Samarkand itself.
Bridge, Sceptre
Sceptre-class Strike Cruiser
“Star Captain, it appears the Togura is moving directly towards us, I think they are intending on ramming.†Sensors reported.
“Translate 15 degrees, then target the Togura with all weapons in the nose and right fore-quarters. Fire at will.†Gerry Harper watches in admiration as the battle draws to a close, thinking it a waste to use such honorable warriors on such a museum piece.
“One of the reapers is not tracking well, sir†one of the weapon’s officers warned.
“Fire anyways†he commanded if the weapon fired into space or hit another part of the Togura he didn’t care as long as the Sceptre destroyed it’s target.
“Aye sir.â€
Tactical Center, Snow Raven
Snow Raven-class Battleship
At the same time another vessel jumped into the system the Snow Raven, capital of the Raven Alliance’s navy, “jump transition complete... it appears we have jumped into a debris field, my Khan.†Khan Sukhanov gave his sensors officer a moment to analyze the debris for a more accurate picture. “It looks to be remnants of the factories we were intending to raid, somebody beat us to it. Local space is populating now. The Sceptre is above New Samarkand in combat with a Combine WarShip.â€
Staring at the information scrawling the screen, the Khan sees a stream of projectiles firing just off the path of the oncoming WarShip in a complete and unfortunate miss. In an image eerily reminiscent of the destruction of Dehra Dun nearly three centuries past, the shells entered the atmosphere of New Samarkand, travelling too fast to be effected by re-entry; they impacted with the surface a score of miles away from the Imperial capital near where the largest natural gas power plant on the planet was located. At first, nothing happened but after a few seconds, a series of explosions occurred across the surface before a final single massive explosion resulted in a huge cloud of expanding ash and dust as the large natural gas reservoir detonated in an explosion that could be seen from space. The end result is a crater nearly a mile in diameter with nearby towns and settlements affected by debris and by. The remains of the concentrated fire of the Sceptre devastates the DCS Togura, which disintegrates into an expanding mass of debris. The Sceptre is unable to avoid this entirely and a few chunks of the once-warship smash into its armour.
As the Snow Raven’s sensor images updated Khan Sukhanov takes a moment to compose himself before speaking to the communications officer, “broadcast this in the open... I want everyone in this system to hear this†he said barely holding back his anger “Star Captain Gerry Harper, this is Khan Vir Sukhanov, I command you to surrender command of your vessel to your executive officer.†He demanded “by your actions in firing indiscriminately on New Samarkand, you have brought dishonor to your name, your bloodhouse, and your clan. Your name will never be spoken again. Your genetics as well as your genefather’s and genemother’s will be reaved from the genebanks. From now and forevermore you are as nothing as the emptiness of the void.†Sukhanov stated wanting to make sure the man completely understood how much he loathed him. “To the crew of the Sceptre you have brought dishonour on your vessel, your Clan and yourselves. I will spare you of a Trial of Annihilation if you surrender your vessel to me now and turn your commander over to face justice.†He said cutting transmission to a completely silence filled the Snow Raven’s control room he had spared the crew of a death sentence but everyone knew that the Khan’s wrath would not be completely spared on the Sceptre’s crew. A short time later the Sceptre disappeared as it activated its jump engine and withdrew from the star system.
Still in hostile territory Sukhanov turned towards his communication’s officer “communicate with the surface of New Samarkand. Inform them that the Snow Raven offers any assistance it can to help the people of this world. I promise them that I will see the Sceptre and its crew brought to justice and that I personally offer my apologies to the people of the Draconis Combine. Our genetics labs are to scrub the genes of the Sceptre’s crew from our vaults.†He said he knew the Council would have to confirm his orders of Genetic Murder but he also knew that few would oppose him and know that they would not face his wrath. “Also send a message to Quatre Belle on my order they are to scrub all plans to replicate the Sceptre design we will rinse our Clan of all association with that vessel it will NEVER be reproduced.â€
Imperial Palace, Yamashiro
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
18th March 3110
The Imperial Palace lay in ruins, the design and structure of the complex had been built with orbital bombardment as a possibility with numerous underground bunkers and passageways but the underground explosion had caused the equivalent of a massive earthquake, with the underground structures not designed for the kind of horizontal pressures exerted on them. Most of the bunkers had been built with such sturdiness that none of them collapsed but numerous tunnels had suffered cutting off a number of bunkers and preventing response teams from rescuing those trapped beneath. Digging through the wreckage Raven R-Teams and the First Genyosha worked together to extract the survivors. Upon seeing the destruction brought by the Sceptre’s attack and the Raven Khan’s offer of assistance functioning authorities on New Samarkand had agreed to a cease fire with the Raven forces.
Noise had been coming from the collapsed tunnel for the last half hour, slowly growing louder. A mechanical voice finally started coming through the debris, “Please step back from the collapse, the debris is unstable.†The message boomed on a repeating cycle as a large clawed hand broke through the wall.
A large mechanical face appeared in the recently dug hole, “Civilians, please step away from the collapse, we ought to be able to extract you within an hour.â€
“I am not a civilian, and you will get me out of here, now!†Akira demanded, though he didn’t recognize this power armor.
“Name, and rank.†Spoke the face.
“I said, get me-â€
“Name, and rank.†The face repeated.
“Fine, Akira Kurita, you should’ve recognized me.†Akira was taking his irritation for being cooped up on this automaton.
The face took a moment before pulling back from the hole, a portion of the head revealing itself for a moment, as Akira swore he saw a Clan Snow Raven insignia. A moment later he heard an echoing “we found him; we will leave him to you, our offer of assistance stands.â€
Another face, this one he recognized as Tai-sho Hanna Seung of the First Genyosha “Sir, we’ll have you out of here in about four hours.â€
“The other one said one hour.†Akira grumbled hating to credit the Ravens with anything why they were on his capital he had no idea.
The officer looked abashed, “They’re, umm… much better at this than we are sir.â€
A little less than four hours later, Akira walked into an overcast sky, the smell of ash on the wind. “The clouds look… different.â€
“It’s not clouds sir, its ash. The rogue Raven WarShip sent a stream of shells into the natural gas fields east of here, igniting the underground reservoir.â€
“Raven WarShip?†He demanded his anger rising as he saw Ravens were still on the system assisting New Samarkand’s defenders honour demanded he honour agreements made by his subordinates.
“Yes sir, please come with me, we have suitable lodgings for you.†The weariness finally catching up to Akira he followed Tai-sho Hannah Seung as he was lead to a well defended hotel, along the way he saw more Ravens on the surface of New Samarkand. Tomorrow, the negotiations would begin in earnest with the Clan leadership.
---------------------
The next day Khan Vir Sukhanov met with Akira Kurita. During the night Snow Raven and Combine recovery teams had found Warlord Minoru Kurita and his son Warlord Hirohito Kurita both had been badly injured but were alive and recovering. In their stead the young Kurita heir had taken point in the negotiations with the Ravens who continued to help with recovery efforts on New Samarkand.
“Your forces were driven from the Quatre Belle system but they completed their objective and crippled several of our facilities.â€
“A strike that you returned on us here and then you took it further by striking at my capital. Our attack was one based on military value while yours attacked our civilians.â€
“The crew of the Sceptre acted without orders. They left the Quatre Belle system without my permission and struck New Samarkand alone. I will see that crew hunted down and brought to justice. Already I have commanded their genes be struck from our Clan’s banks and the Sceptre hull design will never be reproduced.â€
“You will turn over all the territories you have taken in this conflict. Withdraw to our pre-border lines.†Akira demanded but he saw an immediate change in the sorry Raven Khan.
“Understand me I am sorry for the actions of a crew of my people in this system and I am sorry for the virus that has ravaged Milligan’s World†he said accepting in at least part “but I will not surrender territory that members of my Clan won with honour. I will agree to cease offensive operations against the Draconis Combine from this day and I will agree to assist the people of New Samarkand as long as we are welcome.â€
“Our peoples cannot continue along this destructive path. If we continue where will it end? When we resort to the use weapons of mass destruction?†Akira said stepping away from the Raven Khan for a moment. During his training Akira had studied history and knew the history of the Succession Wars well.
“Perhaps we need another path one of mutual respect but not one of peace. Honour trials for our worlds that would be limited in scope but enough to blood our troops and honour their worth, honour trials that we and you would respect and follow†he suggested.
“Agreed but there must be time given between our first ‘Honour Trials’ and now our people need time to accept the new status quo.â€
“Perhaps we could go a ways towards this?†The Raven Khan proposed “we have discovered planet which we have named Nexus Ri. The world is mostly covered in jungle and its atmosphere is mildly tainted.†The Raven Khan said
“And why would the Combine be interested in such a world?â€
“Because there is deposits of Germanium under that forests and precious jewels, oils and metals on the world and in the asteroid belt of the system.â€
“A valuable world we graciously accept it as…â€
“This world is not a gift, Akira Kurita; it is a world that we will share your Dragon and my Raven." He proposed the Draconis Combine representative looked disappointed but intrigued. "Each of us will deploy enough forces to the world to be respectful but we will each only hold half of the system. The forces we send there will fight over the factories and territory of the system.â€
“And so beginning the great honour trials†Akira Kurita agreed “and what of Milligan’s World? Will you leave it a rotten ruin?â€
“Neg, the Star League Defence Force has shown interest in shared stewardship with Clan Snow Raven. I believe it is an arrangement we can make work in a similar manner of Nexus Ri. We will all find a peaceful end to this conflict.â€
Medical Ward, Tristar
Badlands, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
27th March 3110
As soon as they had heard they had travelled nearly half way across the Badlands to see their daughter Sandra Furey laid in a bed injured during the most recent skirmish for the world of Twin Sons. Michael and Sandra Furey sat at the bedside of their daughter as she awoke she had burns down the left of her body, a broken arm, pelvis and several cracked ribs. She would be hospitalized for weeks if not longer.
“Mom? dad? What are you doing here?†She asked seeing them Michael and Sandra Furey were known across Twin Sons both outsiders to the world who had made it their home and brought security and peace to the Badlands leading to the formation of the unit Petra was now assigned to the First Twin Sons Regiment. Unfortunately the northern territories and southern territories still desired to make war.
“We heard you were injured†Sandra Furey said briefly smiling.
“A stupid battle between the North and South and we’re stuck in the middle again. It’s not over resources or over control just over stupid fights.â€
“We hoped that uniting the peoples of the Badlands would help bring Twin Sons together.†Sandra said looking at her husband “we were finding a secure place for our people in forging alliances with other settlements.â€
“But we will always be the target of those who have greater power than us unless we show strength.†Her father said quietly he had been born to the Smoke Jaguar Clan and did his very best at holding the remaining Jaguars and their descendants together.
“Then perhaps we should show them the Badlands has strength that cannot be ignored.†She said looking at her mother and then to her father who nodded his agreement.
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Nice update.
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My thanks to Vition2 for the section at the end and James Tanaga for the section at the start
LaGrange Point
Zeta Shimae V, Pirate Space
Periphery
1st April, 3110
Kaptain Michael Schwartz looked at his screen, watching as his fighter screen were about to reach the pirate’s own and their accompanying DropShips. He was buckled in his captain’s seat onboard the LCDS Train Wreck it one of two Overlord A3 DropShips assigned to the Seventh Lyran Regulars as close support escorts. He couldn’t shake the feeling something was not right, had felt it ever since he and the rest of the Seventh Lyran Regulars had jumped into the system, yet he couldn’t pinpoint the exact cause for this.
Perhaps it was just his nerves, he thought to himself, as he watched his fighters began to descend on the pirates. Then the fighting began.
“Tactical, target the enemy Overlord and began bracket fire with our AR-10’s,†he ordered out loud, just as his fighter’s met the enemy.
“Yes, Kaptain!†he heard the young Warrant officer yell out. Moments later, he saw the first salvo from the two AR-10 missile launchers launch from his dropship towards the pirate’s own and nodded. All so far according to plan, he thought.
Yet just as they were about to hit and likely destroy the enemy Overlord, they disappeared from the screen. “Tactical, confirm the first missile salvo did not, repeat not, hit target!†he yelled out brusquely.
“Confirmed Sir!†the Warrant Officer sounded out a moment later. “Squadron Leader Jason McCain reports enemy Overlord is armed with AMS!â€
“I hate it when I’m right,†Michael commented. “Tactical, order our gunners to target the enemy Overlord with extreme prejudice. I want it dead yesterday, Verstanden?â€
“Roger that!†the young woman growled out.
“Comms, order the LCDS Whiplash to move in for support,†Michael ordered out.
“Doing so now,†was the other Warrant Officer’s immediate reply.
“Sir!†the female Wrrant Officer manning Tactical yelled out anxiously. “Unidentified ship just entered the system!â€
“What the hell!†Michael yelled out as he quickly tapped his screen to full Tactical and saw the threat. “Oh Scheiße!â€
He watched in horror as the Seventh Lyran Regulars JumpShip icons began to disappear one after another. “Sir!†he heard the female Warrant Officer manning Tactical yell out. “LCDS Whiplash reports enemy WarShip of unknown class in system and destroying our JumpShips!â€
He paled. “Conn, turn us about! Order all dropships to rally to us immediately!†If they were indeed facing an enemy WarShip, only their combined efforts could fight the WarShip off. If they were lucky.
As the DropShip turned about and began its burn to the other dropships, his hopes were dashed. Where the Fighting Seventh’s JumpShips once were sat a large WarShip, at least a cruiser, he judged.
“Sir, Squadron Leader Jason McCain reports his fighters are completely ineffective against the enemy Overlord and has lost two of his squadron!â€
He shook his head hopelessly as he saw the other dropship’s belonging to the Fighting Seventh began to be destroyed by accurate NPPC and missile fire coming from the enemy WarShip. “Comms! Announce our surrender now!â€
As he heard the warrant officer manning the comm station signal their surrender, he could only watch in horror as more and more Lyran DropShips were destroyed. Suddenly, he saw a bright light then blackness as the LCDS Train Wreck exploded.
Cargo Bay, Sceptre
Uninhabited System, Raven Alliance
Periphery
3rd April 3110
With most of the crew present Star Captain Gerry Harper stood in front of the remaining crew of the Sceptre. The vessel had taken minor damage in the New Samarkand system but it was damage they couldn’t replace, as would every loss from now on. “The Raven Khan has declared us rogue for our actions in the New Samarkand system.â€
“Your actions in the system†Pilot warrior Richard stated angrily.
“Yes, my actions and the actions of this crew, we failed to prepare Sceptre for battle, you all followed my orders and failed to challenge my leadership.†He said bluntly he knew his failings he had seen the damage wrought by Sceptre’s weapons on the surface of New Samarkand.
“You surrender to the Ravens we could be accepted back into the Clan†another suggested.
“Neg, the Raven Khan has cast us out, the Raven Khan!†Security Chief Elemental Quinn Shu said looking around the room. She was seated in a corner looking at the floor she was in her thirties like Harper and heading towards the end of her career but she knew Raven rules as well as anyone. “They will fire first and ask questions a far second.â€
“So what are we supposed to do?†Weapons officer Paige Cooper asked her bloodname now only a mark on an ended career and life something they were all now feeling.
“Miraposa†Harper said looking around the room seeing the sense of loss among them turn into anger.
“That’s a Dark Caste hole!†One shouted angrily
“They are nothing better than pirates!â€
“Neither are we†another countered.
“Hear out the Captain†another voice said.
“Quieten the hell down!†Quinn Shu shouted gaining their attention as she rose to her feet standing beside Harper because of his Elemental blood he stood just as tall and as broad shouldered as her. “Choose your words carefully†she said glancing at him.
“The people of Miraposa are former Clansmen†Harper explained “we are unfortunately former Clansmen. We will invite people to trial for positions on this crew†he saw their disappointed faces “we will only take those who are capable of contributing. We will trial or trade for the supplies and food we need to keep this ship and this crew operational.†He said they didn’t look entirely convinced but none of them argued. “Now get back to work!†He said taking command. As the crew Harper was aware of Shu had remained close to him.
“I would keep a weapon near your person at all times, one that can penetrate Elemental armour.â€
“You do not think you can control your people quineg?â€
“Who said anything about my people?†She said smirking looking at her Captain “we are old warriors Captain Harper. This was my last mission as an Elemental commander on board a WarShip I would have been reduced to a JumpShip or a Solahma unit. Now perhaps I can die as a Warrior on board a WarShip that could regain its pride and honour see us right, Captain, or watch your back.†She said walking off leaving him in the cargo bay he would keep his crew together and ensure they all wanted to serve on the ship he would make this work and the Raven Khan could be damned.
Trial of Possession
Anjin Muerto, Crucis March
Federated Suns
9th April 3110
Following Nova Cat victories that had seen the Clan push as far into the Federated Suns as Brockton Marshal of Armies Sora Higginson along with the First Crucis Lancers RCT travelled to the region assaulting and capturing Wetumpka, Broken Wheel, Marielund, Lackland and Skeppetana before landing on Anjin Muerto. From Anjin Muerto the Marshal of Armies broadcast a message into the Nova Cat’s Den which was simple. “The Nova Cats are invited to a Trial of Possession for Anjin Muerto. If victorious they may claim this system and continue operations. If they fail they will retreat from Anjin Muerto and both sides will cease attacks for a minimum period of six months.†It was a challenge the honour bound Clan could not refuse and it was a challenge that Khan Canin Rosse himself could not refuse.
Landing south of the capital two clusters of Nova Cats moved forward towards a defence line of the Crucis Lancers engaging first at long range and then in a close quarters brawl. Running through the centre of the Crucis Lancers formation Khan Canin Rosse’s recently deployed Dragon Cat II OmniMech is a complete surprise for the Federated Suns lines as are several laser reflective and flame resistant Nova Cat designs allowing them to penetrate deeply into the Cruics Lancer formation and allowing Khan Rosse to personally down Marshal of Armies Sora Higginson’s Argus OmniMech. Although Canin is successful in taking down the Marshal the Nova Cats are unable to turn the tide of the battle and after eight hours of heavy fighting the Clan retreats to its landing zone surrendering the trial. Unwilling to challenge the firepower of the Nova Cats and their DropShips the remains of the Crucis Lancers allow the Nova Cats to leave the planet beginning the six month cease fire.
A month after the fall of Sora Higginson First Prince Burton Davion announces that his younger brother Fredrick would become the new Marshal of Armies. Already the Prince’s Champion Fredrick immediately accepts the position and orders a reinforcement of the Nova Cat and Draconis Combine borders.
Public Announcement
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
12th April 3110
In front of selected reporters and guests Gunji-no-Kanrei Hirohito Kurita took the stand in front of the tri-vid cameras a black band had been added to the left arm of his immaculate uniform. “Fellow citizens of the Draconis Combine it is my duty to inform you that Warlord Minoru Kurita, my father, did not survive the wounds that were inflicted upon him in the Snow Raven attack on New Samarkand the Draconis Combine has been harmed by a deadly enemy…†he said pausing as if wishing to say something else “but we are not lost.†He said glancing over his shoulder “my father served as Warlord of the Draconis Combine in the place of Vincent Kurita and in the stead of an heir who is now ready to assume his rightful position. Allow me to introduce Coordinator of the Draconis Combine, Prince of New Samarkand and the head of the Kurita family Akira, son of Vincent Kurita.†He said remaining on the podium for a moment before stepping aside allowing Akira Kurita to step forwards and take his place.
“People of the Draconis Combine, we have lost a great leader in my uncle Minoru Kurita and many of you do not know me.†He said glancing at Hirohito Kurita who nodded his support “I protect the Draconis Combine to the best of my ability and I will do my uncle proudly. With the people of the Draconis Combine we will do great things for our nation and see recent failures reversed and our enemies fear the armies of House Kurita.†He said glancing at the podium again “to this end Draconis Combine forces have destroyed the Nova Cat WarShip Obilisk in the Kamarod along with two clusters of Nova Cat forces. We will turn this Clan menace from our borders and return all the worlds that rightfully belong to this nation to the Combine’s flag.†He didn’t mention the Nova Cat successes at Altona and Ad Duwayd which had both fallen to the Clan forces. An attack on Lupine V was turned back by the Star League Defence Force who had held up against the Nova Cat attackers.
Market Place, Junction C Settlement
Mariposa, Independent World
Periphery
15th April 3110
A show of force flown by the aerospace fighter pilots of the Sceptre was all it had taken to get Star Captain Gerry Harper a place in the centre of Junction C the largest settlement on Mariposa. Now he was surrounded by several hundred civilians “I am Star Captain Gerry Harper†he said identifying himself to the crowd surrounding his position was an entire star of Elemental warriors in full Battle Armour each with the Snow Raven insignia crossed out on their suits. “I am the commander of the Strike Cruiser Sceptre we have broken from Clan Snow Raven and I invite you to join us. I have positions for naval trained crewmen, aerospace pilots, Elementals and technicians. This is a WarShip I will not be taking passengers everyone must pull their weight and prove they can join my crew.†He said seeing many who looked interested and many others who looked angry.
“What happened to the Scopuli?†One called out naming an Invader-class JumpShip which had been coming to the system.
“The Scopuli was intercepted by my aerospace fighters. We are transferring food, fuel and supplies from the vessel.â€
“WE NEED THAT FOOD HERE!†Another shouted angrily raising his arm in anger this time the Elementals surrounding Harper raised their arm mounted weapons, they were moments from a bloodbath, Harper could see the trouble building.
“There will be more food; more supplies for you my WarShip needed those supplies now.†Harper said firmly “listen to me carefully we do not wish to bring further harm to you but we will defend ourselves if necessary.â€
“You’re acting like a Clansmen Harper too honourable for your own good. That won’t last.†A man said he stood off to the side at least forty years old he wore a leather jacket over a red shirt with dark jeans and very clearly wore two side arms. He seemed to take pleasure in using contractions to irritate the Clansmen. “You didn’t land in a DropShip which indicates to me you don’t have BattleMechs you won’t get far without BattleMechs.â€
“I could level this settlement and every other on this planet without BattleMechs†Harper pointed out at the man.
“Aye, you could do just that but then you wouldn’t get the supplies or the people you want. BattleMechs could get those for you.†He said the crowd seemed to be looking back and fourth between the two men.
“I can only use what I have got†Harper said
“You could have so much more†he said “without harming these people. In fact you could help them.†He said making his way through the crowd. One of the Elementals glanced in Harper’s direction and stepped aside allowing him to approach “I am Stefan Banacek I will attach my DropShip and my unit to your vessel if you will take us away from the Ravens.†He said in front of the crowd before stepping forwards and continuing in a low voice “in exchange you will provide this settlement with two small craft which they can use to transfer food and supplies between settlements lessening the impact of your raid.â€
“What do you owe these people?â€
“They took us in when the Serpents fell we have fought with them and they have fought with us.â€
“So why abandon them?†Harper asked keeping his voice low.
“You offer a chance to move on and perhaps allow us to link up with other elements that moved through the atmosphere. Also we’ve raided the Alliance recently and the Ravens do not give up on their debts.â€
“The Ravens are after us as well†Harper pointed out thinking about what Banacek had said about other units out there that could also join them. “I accept your offer Stefan Banacek†he said in a louder voice and I will not leave the people of this world high and dry. I will leave two small craft which you can use to move supplies and people to make Mariposa a more effective colony world.†He said several hours later Banacek’s Overlord C-class DropShip rose to orbit to join the Sceptre.
-------------------------------
As the Sceptre began to turn away from the planet of Mariposa there were several jump signatures registered as the Karl Devalis, an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser and several JumpShips arrived in the star system.
“They didn’t take long†Harper noted looking at the screens the Anna Rosse-class vessel was bigger and carried a heavier armament than the Sceptre it also carried more secondary craft and DropShips with those carried by the JumpShips also factored in they were heavily outgunned. “Have the Konstantin remain close to us and turn us deeper into the system.â€
“Query from Konstantin we are heading into the system?†Tech Lewis asked as the WarShip began to turn.
“Confirm it we will jump by a pirate point, if Konstantin maintains our pace we will collect them at the pirate point.†He said watching as the Overlord maintained its acceleration moving with the WarShip the additional crew on the vessel, and from the ground forces, would be a drain on resources but they’d also hopefully provide his vessel with far more options with dealing with threats. “Helm, the Ravens are days away we need to maintain course for that point we have to hope the Ravens are unable to complete an inter-system jump.â€
“The Anna Rosse design is more than fifty years old she was not built with a Mark II LF Battery.†Amanda Lankenau commented from the helm position of all the bridge officers she would probably be his biggest threat in the future experienced she was also very capable having also won her bloodname so far she had not said much about their current path but time would reveal all.
“Aff, we should be able to jump clear but the Ravens will not give up easily.†He said nearly sixteen hours later the Sceptre took back on board the Konstantin and jumped clear from the star system. They did not see the Ravens arrival at Mariposa where they brutally put down the Dark Caste there as they added the world to the Raven Alliance, days later the nearby independent world of Argo was also added to the Raven’s domain.
Wolf Trials
Star League Protectorate
22nd April 3110
In the first proper assault by Clan Wolf against the Star League Defence Forces of the Star League Protectorate the Wolves assault Brodon, Nathan and Alphard. The Wolves are forced off all three worlds by a determined Star League Defence but it is clear that the Clan wishes to push into the Star Leauge Protectorate.
Conference Chamber
Mountbatton, Texas-class Battleship
Nexus Ri, Shared world Raven-Combine Border
23th April, 3110
With most of their resources going to rebuilding New Samarkand, the Combine had very few resources in the area to assist in canvassing Nexus Ri for settlement sites, the Ravens allowed a perfunctory trial for a pair of DropShips and their personnel to utilize a small portion of the Mountbatton as a base of operations.
“What is this?! I was told we were going to share this world†Ashida Matsumo exclaimed shortly after walking into the conference room and noting a number of sites on the planetary map bearing Raven Alliance iconography.
Holding out a tablet the head Raven scientist calmly states “Master Surveyor Matsumo, I suggest you look through this data before coming to any conclusions.â€
“And use the trumped up information you Cla-â€
“Ravens do not lie, Master Surveyor, the data on this device is accurate and complete.†Scientist Sava stated, bristling slightly.
Ashida grabbed the tablet despite his shock at the bluntness of the Raven official and began looking over the data. He was surprised by the parity between the sites the Ravens had already claimed and other sites that had been left open to the Combine. “We will need to assay the sites ourselves to determine both the veracity of this data and quality of the sites themselves.â€
“Of course, Master Surveyor, be warned, make your comings and goings explicit to the Star Commodore, he dislikes you Dragons and will use any excuse to remove you.â€
“Thank you and you can call me Ashida.â€
“Sava.â€
Ashida turned and strode out of the conference room to meet with his teams and to start getting to work. Over the next week, the dozen survey crews he brought with him have assayed nearly a score of promising sites. He forwarded his findings and recommendations to New Samarkand hoping that the new rulership on the Combine capital was still content with sharing this world with the Ravens.
While Ashida was surveying sites diplomacy was being done in another part of the ship revolving around the areas which would be used for trials. Quite a few locations are chosen with a large variety of both terrain and atmospheric conditions, but it is explicitly decided that no trials would take place within 50 km of any settlement to stop any collateral damage.
Towards the end of the month the Ravens bring in their first Carrack full of preliminary supplies and personnel. Meanwhile on Milligan’s World, the Ravens offer resettlement and specialized trainings for those wishing to emigrate to Nexus Ri - over the next few months, quite a few end up choosing this option taking up residence and begin trainings in the Eden Rose which continues to provide relief to the world’s suffering population.
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Grand Mistress of Lothario’s Office
Vatnajökull, Lothario
Lothian League, Periphery
3rd May 3110
The office of the Grand Mistress of Lothario did not look like one that belonged to a leader of a state instead it looked more like the office of a companies Chief Executive Officer and was placed on top of a eight story tower block in the capital city of Vatnajökull. “Welcome to Vatnajökull I hope your trip was comfortable.†Grand Mistress Clarissa Logan said welcoming Senator-Duke Lionel Washington to her office.
“It was I see the new road works have far improved the transportation links†the Senator-Duke said commenting on the recent works that had been completed on Lothario.
“Yes they are a great improvement and we have much to thank you for Senator if it was not for Free Worlds League investment.â€
“The Captain-General desires to have strong and peaceful borders with our neighbours.†Washington said “which is why he did not oppose the Lothian League when you brought the border systems into your realm.â€
“They also wished peace my nation offered peace the recent pirate activity in the Son Hou Theatre has indicated that the Lyrans are unable to protect them. My deployment of the Hellraisers and other mercenary commands has brought stability to the region.â€
“That stability and protection is something that the Free Worlds League could offer to this entire region.†He said handing over a folder. Clarissa took it in her hands and flicked the first page.
“You would divide my nation?†She remarked angrily looking through the first page.
“Under the initial proposal sent to Captain-General Abraham Ledford that was what the Free Worlds League desired…â€
“War†the Grand Mistress stated standing up placing the folder down Washington reached over and pointed at the bottom of the page to a single red line which read “REJECTED BY CAPTAIN-GENERAL.â€
“Not war†she said as Washington flicked over the page to reveal a second proposal. “Alliance?†She whispered retaking her chair looking over the page.
“Not alliance†Washington said quietly “integration. The Captain-General Abraham Ledford proposes that the Lothan League becomes the District of Lothario. It maintains its present borders and worlds within the greater Free Worlds League with each of your worlds afforded a vote at the Free Worlds League Parliament and your vote equal to that held by the other District Leaders.â€
“With no strings attached?†She asked looking over the page
“You will have to let Free Worlds League units and WarShips cross your district’s borders and your worlds will owe taxes towards the running of the Free Worlds League. You will also have to accept that each of your worlds now will have to adhere to the rules of the Free Worlds League, adopt our laws and accept democracy is part of the ruling of your planets.†He explained “in exchange your people will benefit from the greater defence, more investment in infrastructure, communications, health and education.†He said showing her the two sides of the coin. As it stood the worlds answered to her ruler ship and each of the mercenary commands were personally hired by the money from her accounts under these plans that would not last, then again nor could her personal finances.
“How long do we have to decide?â€
“As long as you require†Lionel Washington said standing leaving the documents on the table. “Grand Mistress, this might appear to be a take over by a nation greater than yours but really this is making one great nation even better, join us become the seventh District of the Free Worlds League one sum of the greater whole.†He said bowing his head slightly before turning to leave. Nearly a week past before Grand Mistress Clarissa Logan put out the call for the other planetary leaders of the Lothian League to come together, the small nation lacked the HPG resources to discuss this while apart. By the end of June the Lothian League agreed to the Free Worlds League’s offer becoming the District of Lothario and joining the larger nation. Within a couple of weeks of the initial agreement being made between Lothario and the Free Worlds League several more independent worlds around the nation are also folded into the new district.
Nadir Point, WarShip Sceptre
Actium, Independent World
Periphery
12th May 3110
Missiles, lasers and autocannon fire filed the space around the Sceptre as it emerged at the Nadir point of the Actium system they had expected an empty star system perhaps somewhere they could gain more food but not fight a battle. “Detach the Konstantin, Lewis, have them head directly away from the fighting we will cover!†Star Captain Gerry Harper commanded as the Sceptre was rocked by enemy fire “helm as soon as they are clear I want military thrust available immediately†he commanded Amanda Lankeneau as he looked at the sensors the Sceptre had jumped into the unclaimed system of Actium and found a Nova Cat supply convoy waiting at the jump point. The five JumpShips were already fast charging their jump drives to escape while the two Carrack-class Military Tansport ships were turning to attack the far larger Sceptre her respected their dedication and bravery but the former-Raven Strike Cruiser was a more capable vessel than the two transport WarShips. “Weapons target and destroy Chatham but disable Small Chance we need intelligence and hopefully some supplies.†He ordered the Sceptre moved between the two Nova Cat WarShips and fired a pair of broadsides the salvo directed on Chatham did not hold back instead it ravaged the small transport vessel penetrating the armour from multiple actions shredding the vessel. By comparison the assault on the Small Chance burned through the aft sections of the vessel destroying the engineering sections.
“The last JumpShip has cleared the system†Kimi reported from the sensor station “Catham is dead in space. Small Chance is showing heavy damage to its engineering section.â€
“Amanda bring us into their aft arc and have our Elementals prepare for boarding action.â€
“Konstantin, reports they are ready to earn their keep†Lewis reported from the other side of the bridge as Nova Cat and Sceptre aerospace fighters continued to duel between the two WarShips.
“There are still active weapons arrays on that ship†Harper noted but even as he spoke the Konstantin was in motion rolling over the Carrack opening its main cargo bay door as it went deploying BattleMechs and Battle Armour units directly onto the hull. The Konstantin took several laser and missile hits but none of the Small Chance’s capital guns struck the Overlord C as it dived away past the rear of the WarShip.
On the hull of the Carrack the Star of BattleMechs went to work quickly targeting the active weapons arrays near them before Battle Armour troops breached the hull from two entry points. “Pass to Stefan Banacek that we need survivors to interrogate.†Harper said glancing at Lewis as he watched the displays of the efficient boarding action Banacek’s personnel showing they were an asset to the Sceptre; a dangerous one.
----------------
Nearly three hours later the thirty-two Nova Cat survivors from the two WarShips and their aerospace fighters had been interrogated by the Sceptre’s crew. It was very clear that the Raven Khan had cast them completely out of Clan society and that even being captured by another Clan would not repair the damage. The Nova Cats also had more than thirty active WarShips operating inside their territory not to mention space habitats and individual aerospace fighter units.
“We cannot traverse the Nova Cat’s Den†Gerry Harper said looking over the data, he looked between Stefan Banacek and Quinn Shu neither seemed to disagree. “Our only other options are we try to move through the periphery avoiding Clan Nova Cat’s claimed space and hope to find the supplies that will keep us operating. Or we attempt to pass through the Federated Suns periphery region using uninhabited systems to avoid their navy.â€
“We cannot live in hope in the periphery this crew would turn against itself.†Shu noted
“We cannot hope to avoid the Federated Suns military for long it is extensive†Banakek noted “even using the battery we’ll encounter them eventually.â€
“Clansmen don’t run from a fight†Harper noted looking at the former Adder bloodnamed warrior he wondered how much of Banacek’s fight had been taken with the fall of the Adders and the Serpents.
“Aff, but we are technically no longer Clansmen. We cannot look at ourselves as such nor can we expect our enemies to treat us that way. We are dark caste little more.†He said glancing between the two Ravens “now my people can assist in gaining us supplies the Federated Suns periphery region but we need to pick our targets properly and we need to act like the pirates that they will see us as.â€
“We still don’t have a final target. This crew deserve to know where they are going.†Shu noted Harper glanced at her for her use of contractions wondering how quickly this crew would succumb to the dark caste’s ways.
“We need to supply the Sceptre with parts; fuel and food for this crew even with what we have taken here it will only go so far. For now we allow the need to supply drive this crew.â€
“That will only go so far†Banacek said producing a small memory drive from within his jacket “this is a list of the former Clan units I know are operational.†He said seeing Harper’s surprise at this new revelation and wondering where the information had come from. Banacek it seemed had already picked up on Harper’s curiosity “there are back doors into the Sea Fox Chatterweb you just need to know how to access them. The dark caste in the homeworlds used them for years it didn’t take long for that to pass to the OZs the same practices continue under the Clan’s noses everyday. Even as the Watch gets more effective so do we.†He explained handing over the drive to Harper “perhaps we can find a group this crew will be comfortable with joining.â€
“Why didn’t you DropShip attempt to make such an alliance?†Shu asked looking from the drive back towards Banacek.
“Because I didn’t have a seven hundred thousand ton WarShip at my back†Banacek admitted “you do not place your trust in anyone but those on your own crew.â€
“Then why trust us?†Harper asked
“Sometimes you have to take a chance at making a better future.â€
“Aff†Harper agreed “then we are going to take a chance and pass through the Federated Suns we will rely on our guns and our skill to see us through to one of these groups and forge an alliance that will see us prosper.†He said raising the drive up a little they were placing their future in the data it contained and trusting that they had enough firepower to overwhelm anyone who disagreed with them.
Clan Blood Spirit Command, Khan’s office
Haven, Deep Periphery
Clan Homeworlds
17th May 3110
With the remaining Goliath Scorpions in tow it had taken longer than Alex Lassenum had expected to return to Haven. On arrival in the system he had heard that Khan Katja Keller had been killed in a raid on the Society production world of Gatekeeper. That alone had shocked him, the Old Khan, the leader of his Clan was dead he never expected that to happen in his lifetime instead that she’d outlive them all. What shocked him more was when those who met him on Haven referred to him as ovKhan, honoured superior, most of them should barely have known him but instead wherever he stepped on Haven the people there made way for him right the way up until he reached the Khan’s office. There he met Star Captain Wesley Sukhanov “Star Captain, I did not expect to see you here.†He said his guard up around the old warrior he knew that the Khan had met with him before their ships departed but did not know the contents of the conversation.
“I did not expect to be here, it has been many years, but when I head of Katja’s death I knew that I had to do my last duty for my Khan.†He said reaching into his jacket’s pocket he drew out a small data pad which he placed on the white glass table which was probably the most advanced and modern item in the room “the Old Khan charged me with delivering this to you in the event of her death.â€
“She knew this would happen quineg?â€
“Neg, but she had been around long enough to know she needed to make a plan. A plan that now lies to you to complete.†He said crossing his arm across his chest in salute “ovKhan†he said before leaving Alex alone in the room. He slowly crossed over to the table and sat in the old leather recliner chair looking at the old flat screen computer on the desk. It took him a moment to find the courage to connect the data pad to the computer but when he did the program itself took over.
“This message is for Star Colonel Alex Lassenum.†Katja Keller said looking at the camera “Alex, I am dead and I am sorry I misled you, the Osis Pride was not my target in fact I do not know where the ship is.†She admitted “instead I planned to eliminate the new Scientist General on Gatekeeper as well as damage their production there, it was perhaps a plan too far but my contingency plan was already in motion. You†she said pausing “Alex you may not think that you are ready to be a Khan but you are, you are the one senior officer I know that is ready to embrace what the Blood Spirits could be.†She said “others remember what the Blood Spirits were and are ready to see them return to that hidden at Colleen they could live their lives until the Society found them, which will happen Alex, instead our Clan needs to continue its attacks against our enemies keep them uneasy keep them away from Colleen.†She said pausing looking away from the camera and then back again.
“Do not be the Khan that I was, I lived for too long, and hidden away on Colleen I showed our people the wrong example. I have attached to this message several warriors codex who I believe could serve you as saKhan of our Touman†she said looking down “lead our Clan, lead the remains of the Goliath Scorpions if you need to Alex destroy the Society.†She said finally before straightening up For The Cause†she said proudly.
-------------------
As his first decision as Khan Alex Lassenum officially ceded a quarter of the world of Honour to the Goliath Scorpions as he had promised them before his Spirits would not absorb the other Clan instead he would see them rebuilt and both Clan’s strengthened. It still hadn’t sunk into the Scorpions that the Not-Named’s flag flew over Haven and Honour but so far they had no tried to challenge the Blood Spirits over it.
Instead over the next several days Khan Alex Lassenum visited several of those that the Khan had suggested for the position of saKhan but none of them appeared to be what he wanted. As Khan it was his choice to make and one for the council to approve but if he was unable to make a choice then it would go to a grand melee which could mean he’d end up with anyone as saKhan. Frustrated Alex took to the Mechbay to inspect his Oteon where he saw a young female Blood Spirit warrior attacking a wooden dummy with a thin bladed weapon striking it from various angles. She couldn’t have been older than twenty-four years old she had dark skin and dark braded hail tied in a ponytail which ran part the way down her back. He stood and watched her for several moments before deciding to approach “your technique is flawed warrior.†He said as she watched she ignored him and continued to attack Alex acted quickly grabbing another of the training blades he moved between the training dummy and deflected her attack parrying her blade clear he stepped forwards pushing her back. The warrior struck back driving him towards the dummy but Alex spun out of the way knocking her blade to the side and drawing it under her chin. “One†he said this time she struck back moving quickly towards him knocking his blade to the side and knocking him back Alex ducked under one of her attacks and again brought the blade to the point of striking her. “Two†he said but this time she smiled and glanced to the right he followed her sightline and saw a small blade pointed at his side. “Now we’re talking†he said spinning away from her drawing a smaller blade of his own the two danced across the training mats their blades ‘clinking’ together as they moved fluidly. Around them other warriors and techs stopped what they were doing to watch as the two ‘fought’ neither held back as they each tried to strike the other spinning and striking at each other. Alex lost his training blade and a moment later he struck back knocking the dagger from his opponent’s hand rolling forward he brought his dagger up against her blade locking the two together and finally both were weaponless. He moved forward his arms raised in defence while striking out against her to trip not harm catching her off guard however at the same time she struck him knocking him off balance leading to the two of them on the ground with Alex kneeling over his downed opponent. “Well fought†he said “what is your name?†He asked pulling her back to her feet.
“Mira Collesano†she said standing opposite him the gathered warriors seemed to understand that this was now a private conversation “you fought well, I do not recognize you?â€
“You must be the only person in this system who does not.†He said “Alex Lassenum†he said introducing him immediately he her surprised look one which she hid quickly.
“Nice form†she said which he nodded in reply “and an interesting OmniMech choice†she said looking over at the Osteon.
“It has served me well and your BattleMech?â€
“A Kingfisher†she said “it was all they had available when I graduated but it has served me well.†She said mirroring his answer the Kingfisher was a survivor in the assault class of OmniMech it featured a standard engine, endo steel and ferro fibrous armour making difficult to kill.
“And what do you thinki of our current path?â€
“Our current path†she asked “we are not doing enough against the Society we need to harry them push them and strike where they do not expect.â€
“Even if it means over-extending ourselves quiaff?â€
“We are the Blood Spirits we stand through all adversity for the cause, my Khan†she said uttering one of the phrases all members of the Clan understood.
“Aff, saKhan†he said making his choice seeing the shock on her face “I need a saKhan that is on the same wave length as me†he said bending down to pick up one of the blades “and one that can keep up.†He said handing her the weapon “report for duty tomorrow morning.†He said collecting up his dagger before leaving the area returning to his OmniMech taking the Osteon out of the bay onto the firing range.
Situation Room, Kraken (Sea Fox-class ArcShip)
Burn-in system, Clipperton
District of Bowang, Free Worlds League
20th May 3110
The modifications that Clan Sea Fox had made to the Kraken had turned it into something closer to a movable space station than the WarShip that it had originally been built as because of this the Kraken was only able to use its station keeping drive to move through a star system escorted by the Jade Lion-class Battle-cruiser Deathstrike. Because of their slow pace representatives from the Clipperton Shipyards had travelled to the ArcShip joining them in deep space. Entering the main Situation Room the guests were led to a large holotank where ovKhan Jessica Sennet stood waiting. “Director Steele, welcome onboard the Kraken, you are just in time†she said greeting him.
“Aff, ovKhan Sennet an impressive vessel you have here I have only seen them at a distance previously.â€
“And today heralds another new step forward both for my Clan and for your people the first domestically produced WarShips at Clipperton under the stewardship of Clan Sea Fox and Bowang.†Sennet replied looking at the holo-tank images as the ArcShip finally began to move closer to the planet and the shipyards. “Have you named the vessel that will be launched today Quiaff?â€
“Aff, ovKhan we have chosen to name the first Bowang Aumaku-class vessel after Alison Kaning who passed away just a fortnight ago. She brought the people of Bowang to the worlds around them and expanded our influence until we were a founding member of the reborn Free Worlds League. She will always be remembered.†Director Steele said proudly
“I heard that the Captain-General is on Bowang visiting Alison Kaning’s family home to mark her passing?â€
“That’s correct†Steele replied he didn’t mention that Captain-General Abraham Ledford did not want to be too closely associated with the Clan following Captain-General Joseph Marik’s image being tarred by his association with the Clan.
“I wish him well†she said ovKhan Jessica Sennet knew as well as Director Steele that the Free Worlds League’s relationship with the Sea Fox balanced on a knife-edge. “And along that line of thought we welcome the FWLS Alison Kaning and the destroyer Mano to the service of the District of Bowang and the sevice of Clan Sea Fox may they serve long and with honour.†She said as the two five hundred-and-thirty thousand ton destroyers cleared the shipyard facility near Clipperton moving under their own power for the first time. The Aumaku-class Destroyer was built like a massive hammerhead shark named and designed along the lines of a native shark to the Bowang system the vessel’s forward section was almost like the head of a hammerhead with two heavy particle cannons forming the basis of the forward firepower. Backing up these were ranks of naval pulse lasers and naval autocannons backed up by a bevy of standard weapons and protected by a heavy array of laser-based anti-missile systems. Twenty aerospace fighters, four small craft and two DropShips rounded out the vessel’s capabilities.
“Seyla†Jessica Sennet said as the two vessels accelerated and passed over the bow of the Kraken each vessel taking its own course beyond the ArcShip the parallel but different courses of the ships also symbolizing the different paths of the District of Bowang and of Clan Sea Fox.
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Couldn't sleep and marauder send me something for the Rasalhague Dominion (which hasn't been on the cards for months honest)
Coordinator’s Planning Room
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
4th June 3110
“What is with this insane drive towards Benjamin?†Coordinator Akira Kurita demanded looking at the starmap a recent drive by the Federated Suns had seen them seize Marduk, Galtor III, Reisling’s Planet, Hagiwawa, Umijiri and Kitalpha all between the Federated Suns and the District capital of Benjamin.
“Unknown Coordinator†Gunji-no-Kanrei Hirohito Kurita admitted “but their focus has seen us finally secure Fellanin II and we have retaken McComb and Lima.
“That’s not good enough!†He snapped looking back at Warlord “and this Warrior House Sortek are they a Capellan unit working for the Federated Suns?â€
“We do not believe so, they appear to be a homegrown unit from House Sortek a strong supporting family of the Davion’s.â€
“But the naming Warrior House?†Akira said pacing across the room “it’s almost like they want to spark a conflict with the Capellans†he pondered.
“The Capellan border has been quietâ€
“I know!†He shouted again angrily putting down the older man “we wouldn’t be in this position if the Capellans could keep the Federated Suns busy without losing the rest of their realm.â€
“We need to move more troops and naval support to the Benjamin District and reinforce Midway’s defences.â€
“I agree.â€
“Dieron has also requested aid the situation in the Vega Prefecture they say is getting out of hand they cannot funnel enough supplies into Vega to support the worlds. Akira Tormark has again asked to dissolve the Vega Prefecture and allow other regional leaders take over.â€
“And give those regional leaders more power? No, tell Tormark to deal with the situation in Vega with the resources he has.â€
“He is also trying to stop pirates that appear from nowhere and further Isle of Skye attacks!†Hirohito Kurita said raising his own voice bringing an angry glance from the Coordinator.
“Vega is an internal matter which the Duke should be able to deal with he is a Warlord of the Draconis Combine the Rasalhague Dominion has done him a favour by taking those systems from the Lyrans the Isle will be distracted. All Tormark has to do is reroute JumpShips into the region and have his troops crack down on dissidents.†He explained briefly touching on the recent Dominion annexation of Eaglesham and Phalan from the Lyrans after an Isle of Skye JumpShip bound for the Vega Prefecture took a short-cut through Dominion space.
“That will lead to casualties.†Hirohito cautioned
“They speak out against their Coordinator and their nation†Akira Kurita said coldly “have the troops use non-lethal weapons where they can Dieron needs to deal with this situation by their selves for now we need to cut off the Davions.â€
“We have a plan to use McComb and Lima as a launching point, to drive through New Ivaarsen and to launch attacks on Robinson but the plan will not be ready until next month.†He said the Coordinator shot him another look “ships only travel so fast.â€
“We need to do more†he said looking at the Combine/Suns/Raven border “like here†he said pointing at the backwater border world of Capra it should be important a meeting point between three nations but all three tended to ignore it. “This area of the Draconis March is under defended. We strike and drive towards the Crucis March. We threaten the Davion’s heartland and they will pull back.â€
“The years have been good to the Federated Suns they have reserves we have faced the Ravens, Bears and Lyrans. We cannot launch a twin offensive it is one plan or the other.â€
“Then we drive through Capra ignore the meat grinder that will be Robinson and aim for the Crucis March.†He said “redeploy our Robinson offensive troops to Capra.â€
“Yes Coordinator†Hirohito replied looking at the map the Combine were half a dozen worlds from striking at Robinson but they were more than a dozen from the Crucis March. He knew that they needed to increase recruitment and raise more Regular units, they also needed to move their focus from the Ravens and onto the bigger threats of the Federated Suns and Rasalhague Dominion.
Thirty-seventh Star League Games, Star League Stadium
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Independent World
14th June 3110
As fighting envelops the Succession States and several of the Clans the Star League Games continue on Solaris with the Thirty-seventh Star League Games at the Star League Stadium. As with every year competitors from across the Inner Sphere representing nations, Clans and independents entered desiring to become the newest Star League champion. From nearly the beginning to the end of the fighting there was only one real competitor in the battle. As others fought grudge matches representing nations Star Colonel Lesley Helmer a ristar of Clan Jade Falcon piloting a Gryfalcon BattleMech fought for one thing, victory, despite receiving several warnings from the competitions judges for targeting enemy BattleMech’s cockpits there was no other that could match the speed or ferocity of the Jade Falcon warrior and a Thirty-fifth champion of the Star League Games was crowned (the eighteenth and twentieth games both lacked champions due to external forces).
Macy’s Bar, Kopara
Badlands, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
20th June 3110
After months being laid up following the fighting on Twin Sons Petra Furey was ready to return to duty and serve the Twin Sons and the Free Worlds League but she didn’t know exactly what she wanted after being injured on her own homeworld. Instead she found herself at Macy’s Bar in the town of Kopara in an area of the Badlands her parents had always advised her to avoid and an area that if her CO knew she was in he’d probably drum her out of service.
Sitting at what looked like an ancient table she sat staring at the drained drink tankard thinking about getting another when a good looking male patron sat down opposite her placing down another two drinks. “I’m not interested.â€
“How is that a way to greet a visitor bringing drinks?†He asked from his accent and tone she realized he was another descendant of the small dark caste population based on Twin Suns.
“I am now interested†she repeated
“You do not even know what I was going to say.†He said as a young female sat down at the table “good evening Jessica†he said she nodded and looked at Petra.
“Is she in?â€
“I am not interested†Petra said for a third time as a third member of the party sat at the table he was older and very obviously of Elemental stock “really guys what is this?†She demanded getting annoyed at the interruption but at the same time a little concerned. She moved to pick up the offered drink with one hand and undid the safety on her sidearm with her other hand.
“You think we will hurt you Petra Furey?†The first male asked obviously picking up on her movement she almost cursed but remained silent. “I would have thought you would have found us kindred spirits†he said “we want the same thing as you.â€
“Which is?â€
“Protection for our people, peace on Twin Sons and a strong District of Lesnovo†he said immediately.
“Our people?â€
“The Smoke Jaguars†he said the other two nodded “dark caste isn’t exactly something people can rally behind.â€
“Keep your voice down†Petra said looking around the bar the Smoke Jaguar tag was hardly a popular one on Twin Sons beyond the Port Arthur settlement and hated within the Inner Sphere. Instead of being intimidated by the potential problems it might cause he stood up wiping his brown hair to one side.
“Ladies and Gentlemen of Macy’s Bar I am Flintoff Weaver and I am a Smoke Jaguar!†He said loudly so everyone in the bar could hear him.
“HAIL!†The bar responded once before going back to there own business as Flintoff sat down.
“We are all Jaguars here, or at least our parents were, not many trueborns left other and Massa here†he said indicating to his Elemental companion. Looking around the bar Petra saw similar bodylines and behaviour from most of the patrons not all of them were of Jaguar blood but they obviously had nothing against those who did she didn’t know why they were not all at Port Arthur but she guessed she’d get an answer here.
“What do you want with me?†She asked looking back at them.
“Join us†Flintoff said “embrace your inner Smoke Jaguar and help us fix the wrongs on Twin Suns and beyond.†He said finally making his plans clear a plan which would ultimately lead to the rebirth of Clan Smoke Jaguar.
Rasalhague Dominion Raid
Vega, Vega Prefecture
Miliary District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
24th June 3110
After the bombing of the Rasalhauge Bloodchapel that had killed the Khan and many of the Bloodnamed, with no obvious culprit, the tensions on the Dominion and Combine border were high. To keep their troops from striking out on their own, the newly promoted and minted Commanders hurriedly put in place to replace those killed had their troops carrying out large numbers of exercises. In well documented and broadcast events, Exercise POLAR STAR involved several WarShips and one full Galaxy’s worth of troops simulating an attack against a world as the Bears attempted to keep their population's confidence in their military. There was also a spate of tit for tat Trials with the Coyotes. Although no worlds changed hands, it kept the Warriors of both Clan’s sharp and netted both sides some valuable salvage.
Still there was a series of Trials and reprisal raids against the Combine. The Dominion’s military was angry, and the lack of any lead about who had caused the bombing, along with the flow of refugees over the border from the Vega Prefecture was just making things worse.
Elements of the Fifth Bear Guards launched a raid on Outer Volta, not to claim it but just to attack the Combine defenders. Despite heavy losses the Bear’s left half of the Fifteenth Ghost Regiment in terrible shape with entire Companies wrecked.
On Luzerne the Combine retaliated when two Battalions of the Fourteenth Ghost Regiment launched a reprisal raid, aiming at taking supplies and Clan equipment. They were resisted by forces from the Thirtieth Provisional Garrison Cluster as well as large numbers of volunteers who helped dig trenches and supply extra infantry, freeing up the Thirtieth to fully counter the Combine attackers. Here honours were roughly even but the Combine unit did not get as much salvage as they were after.
There were a few short but sharp skirmishes in space as well on the border of the Vega Province. A Combine Tramp-class JumpShip jumped in above Port Moseby as a civilian registered vessel it launched three DropShips full of refugees whom burned towards the planet declaring their surrender and requesting humanitarian aid. Behind them a Combine Achillies detached from the JumpShip demanding that the refugees return to the JumpShip and broadcasting an apology to the Rasalhague defenders for their error in jumping into the system.
At the Rasalhague Dominion jump point picket the commander and crew of the Vanir-class DropShip Thunder at Night had a split second decision to make allow the Achilles to track down the civilians and possibly end up shooting them down or stop the DCMS vessel. Their choice made the Thunder of Night acted interposing herself between the Combine Achillies and the civilian DropShips demanding the Achilles immediate and unconditional surrender.
Refusing the Thunder of Night's orders to stand down the Achilles opened fire, initiating a duel between the two that saw the Thunder at Night badly damaged but the Achilles was crippled and boarded. Several days later the three civilian vessels landed on Port Moseby and were surrounded by the elite troops of the First Polar Bear Assault Cluster who didn't completely trust that the civilian ships were what they said they were. As the ships doors opened the Bears found a wave of civilians crammed into the vessel and in need of immediate medical attention.
Above the operational mess diplomatically the Combine and Dominion were barely talking with one another. Demands to return refugees were met with cold silence as were demands to stop them coming.
So the tit for tat raids had gone on for months. At some of the refugee camps the Workers and Merchants trying to organise the camps were overwhelmed and when a food shipment was delayed due to a technical problem with a JumpShip’s drive, there was a riot by hungry, tired and just exhausted Combine civilians who had run to the Dominion for help and found a situation developing which was as bad as the Combine.
The additional strain the re-routing of JumpShips and DropShips was slowing the Rasalhague Dominion economy and this was not helped by the redeployment of so many JumpShips to help with military manoeuvres.
The elevation of Michael Hawkins to Khan didn’t help matters either. Something of a traditionalist, he resented the power that people he viewed as Civilians had amongst the Dominion and his relationship with the Royal Family and Council were cold but cordial at best. The elevation of Delta Galaxy’s Angela Bekker to the post of saKhan was seen as a move to balance the leadership of the Clan by many. But his attitude towards the situation on the Combine border was that of a Clan Warrior, he met force with force.
------------------------------
Upon receiving the simple signal ‘Maul’ that, was broadcast via HPG, Vega fell. Not the world, but the entire Prefecture thirteen Combine worlds targeted by the Bears in one move.
A Dominion task group centred around the Rasalhague as well as the Conqueror Tseng and their escorting destroyers the Bergen and Norge made the jump into the Vega system, appearing at the Pirate Point near Vega herself, DropShips detaching minutes after appearing.
In these craft were Mechs from Epsilon Galaxy including several Watch Detachments and their ‘Special Service’ Mech’s drawn from the Dominions Strategic reserves. By far Epsilon Galaxy was the strongest in all of the Rasalhague Dominion’s forces commanded by the newly minted saKhan Angela Bekker and supplemented by the saKhan’s own cluster the Eighth Bear Cuirassiers the unit moved swiftly and hit with an unprecedented force.
As the lead elements of Epsilon hit Vega, other Clusters were hitting Aubisson, Shinoha, Alnasl and Tsukude. On all five worlds with a lacked of military control from Dieron and the coordination needed from Vega following the bombings there months before, fighting had broken out over who was in command, with some officers refusing commands from those of senior rank but junior service or in one case over a matter of one Officer being promoted a mere two weeks ahead of a rival who refused to accept his seniority.
On Vega though Chu-sa Naomi Tiberias still commanded the loyalty of her units after some rather brutal displays of discipline enacted upon units and civilians who, in her view, were disloyal to the Draconis Combine and counter-productive to the solution on the world.
And it was onto his HQ complex that Epson's Eighth Bear Cuirassiers and the Second Polar Bear Assault Cluster dropped whilst fighters from the clusters and WarShips bombed and strafed any target of opportunity.
The Dominion broadcast to the worlds that they were bringing order to the chaos, that they would bring food, water and protection to civilians from those who would abuse them. With the new Coordinator distracted by fighting with the Ravens, Federated Suns and Lyrans and unable, or unwilling, to respond to the troubles on Vega what little organised military forces that were not fighting amongst themselves fell quickly. Head hunter strikes and heavy air and artillery attacks preceded Epsilon’s assaults and many of the local 'warlords' who claimed overall command over the Prefecture, in the Coordinators name of course, were killed at the onset of the Dominions assault.
Despite the chaos that had consumed the Prefecture, some units fought exceptionally hard. The Third Dieron Regulars Regiment was reduced to 10% operational Mech’s by the time its Commander, a young Sho’sa accepted an offer of Surrender, in doing so his forces had gutted the as well as elements of the First Polar Bear Battle Cluster with his defiance. Granted Safcon the survivors were allowed to board dropships and depart the Prefecture with honour intact but the fighting for Vega was over and the world, along with several others were already secured by the Rasalhague Dominion troops.
The Ares Might was scuttled by her crew during the initial attack on New Wassen. Part of the orbital defences included a pair of Nekohono’o Assault DropShips and although both DropShips were destroyed, both had launched a swarm of assault shuttles loaded with Raiden clad Battle armour. With the primary magazines lost to them the Captain of the Ares Might ordered the reactor’s safeties to be disabled even as the Combine assault forces stormed the bridge. The massive explosion as the fusion reaction consumed the ship was visible from the surface, but it was just part of the backdrop for many as Dominion and Combine forces fought tooth and nail over the world’s Space Ports and communication centres as New Wassen also joined the Rasalhague Dominion.
Road to New Egypt
Forsair, Vega
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
24th June 3110
Convoy escort had not been where Major Morgan Christofori had wanted to be during the Invasion of Vega by Rasalhague Dominion forces but that was where he was and the people of New Egypt were relying on his unit to get the supplies to their destination. It had been part of a bigger plan to gain the trust of the locals and possibly find out who started the mess on the planet that was until the Bears had arrived.
Hit from multiple directions his company had lost three BattleMechs in less than two minutes four of their convoy vehicles destroyed. Morgan closed his eyes for a moment and remembered turning on a charging Karhu blasting it with his Clan made lasers but the sixty-five ton OmniMech would not be stopped and moments later it slammed into him with its retractable blade slicing away the right arm. Morgan had povited and fired his Medium Pulse Lasers burning the Karhu at point blank range but the OmniMech would not be stopped a particle projection cannon blast burned his right torso destroying two of the pulse lasers while another attack with the blade had smashed armour. He’d tried to move away using his Penetrator’s jump jets but the Karhu hadn’t stopped its attack with another particle cannon blast bursting through his Pentrator’s rear armour smashing directly into the fusion engine. Knocked off balance by the strike and falling forward Morgan had no choice but to punch out of the BattleMech his ejection seat throwing him across the battlefield before the parachutes deployed slowing his descent. As he fell towards the ground he saw what was left of his company be overrun the Bears he hoped the other elements of the Ninety-fifth Special Operations Battalion had done better. Landing hard in the undergrowth he’d tried to wriggle from the command chair and grab his sidearm but before he could an Elemental stepped up to him and swung its Battle Claw down disarming him and probably breaking his right hand. As he was dragged along the ground Morgan remembered seeing his shattered command couch remembering that it was his father’s seat, his father’s BattleMech, and he’d let him down as he drifted into unconsciousness.
Tomad’s Burrow
Baxter, Vega Prefecture
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
28th June 3110 2247 local time
“Chu-sa, a message from Tai-I Genda, he’s got the ammunition convoy moving, he had to commandeer a Kiso to clear a route and is requesting that we send forces to help escort him in.â€
“Tell Genda we’ve none to spare, those Bear bastards are hitting us hard, the Akagi river has been breached and there’s at least two Supernova’s moving out from Zeon Starport.â€
Chu-sa Sayami looked at his perimeter. The holo-display gave cold, hard numbers and force dispositions but it wasn’t a match for eyes on the ground. The Epsilon Galaxy forces had been fighting very un-Clanlike but then again their attacks had been very effective.
“Damn it…we need that ammo, get Sho-ko Nordh’s armour to support Genda, and tell Gunsho Shin to deploy her battle armour with them and provide close support for the tanks.
“Hai Chu-sa!†The Lieutenant, one of Sayami’s original cadre before this mess had started saluted before running out of the command bunker that was buried under what had been a shopping centre. The Dominion were bombing and strafing command posts and with their warships overhead they were looking for command posts and strong EM signatures so his command post was in a shopping centre’s basement and all messages were delivered by runners or by wired telephones, crude as all hell but effective and it had kept him alive when the Bears dropped on his world and neighbouring units had gone off the air.
His surviving troops were a mixture of his forces from the Sixteenth Legion of Vega as well as stragglers from the local Baxter militia that had snapped back to reason and stopped fighting one another. With the world at risk there was more at stake than personal honour.
“Sir, the Black Bear’s have been sighted at grid 14 by 29, moving north east.â€
“Understood, raise Chu-i Matsuda and order her out of that area, they could be hunting or they could be on patrol, we can’t lose her lances in the confines of the Industrial district.â€
“Hai!â€
The Colonel bit back a curse before taking a swig from his water bottle, the so called ‘Black Bears’ were a group of five Mech’s, all some type of Kodiak and they’d been instrumental in gutting several positions in the battle for the Starport before going on a rampage through an assault lance belonging to the Sixteenth. They’d even broadcast them pulling an Atlas apart before Tai-i Morgen’s Battlemaster fell at their hands as well.
No, these troops were not like normal Clanners at all like Vega before it Baxter quickly succumb to the Bear onslaught as the Rasalhague Dominion extended its control over the Combine Prefecture.
Defence Lines
Gram, Military District of Dieron
Draconis Combine
28th June 3110 1742 local time
The air was alive with gunfire, heavy roars of autocannons, the buzz saw snarl of HAGs and scream of missiles contested with the electronic ripping sound of lasers and the thunderous pulse of particle cannons and all Hojuhei Tanna wanted to do was dig her way deeper into her trench, cradling her Type 2001 rifle as close as she could, teeth clenched tight in terror.
Like the rest of her unit she was a ‘volunteer’ that had been drafted up at gun point to fight but now she couldn’t even run. The military Police had set up behind the volunteer’s trench lines and the bastards had made it clear that their first targets were not any attacker, but them. Cursing the injustice of everything, she managed to pick herself up as the firestorm swept overhead, managing to peek over the lip of the trench.
A few kilometres away, as Hill 203 flattened out into plains she could see Combine Mech’s engaging the Dominion attackers, but it was a forlorn hope, a few dozen against scores. Still she, like everyone else cheered when a Dominion Vulture vanished in a fireball as its ammo cooked off but that was only at that part of the line. A group of Clan Mech’s was making its ascent, stomping up the muddy hill that had once been a park, but now the only ‘flowers’ there were of the anti-personnel and anti-vehicle type and the only ‘bushes’ were tangles of barbed wire.
There was a loud BOOM as a dug in Tokugawa opened fire. The tank had been dug in and half buried under rubble to camouflage it and now its autocannon opened fire, sending streams of shot down the hill. It was an old vehicle, powered by an unreliable ICE engine and had been discovered in some old war stocks and hurriedly refuelled and re-armed to take part in the fighting.
It got three shots out before a volley of laser light smashed into its turret, boiling away the mud that had been thrown over it to hide it before punching into the armour. Engine revving the tank started to move back to another fire position but a particle bolt ripped through the turret and ended the tank and its crews service to the Combine in a massive explosion.
Tanna cursed ‘Warlord’ Mayamoto for refusing to move his command post; she cursed the wet mud sucking at her boots, and the Dominion for attacking her world.
“Stand up and fight! Ignore the Mechs, target the battle armour!â€
There were a few cracks and then more as the platoon let rip with their bolt action rifles, fear of the dark armoured shapes running up the muddy hill, fear of the men behind them with machine guns should they break adding to their ‘encouragement’ as they fired round after round at their attackers.
The Dominion Rogue Bear’s returned fire, snarling machine guns sending plumes of mud and water into the air as they tore up the ground around the trenches trying to suppress the Combine defenders. The leading elements of the Second Tyr Assault Cluster were moving behind them, ignoring the infantry fight at their feet, their guns flattening bunkers or heat sources that indicated a tank or gun position. The five Kingfishers chosen for their durability were working their way up the hill whilst the rest of the Cluster slowly dismantled the Combine position.
Hojuhei Tanna snapped off a shot at a blue and white painted battle suit, the round sparking harmlessly off its thick plate and she could only watch in horror as it jumped into the Trench ahead of hers, its brutal vibro-claws making quick and messy work of the four troops in the firing pit. The machine guns were firing now, fortunately not at her or he squad, pouring lead into the Bear Elementals and one collapsed on its face, its pilot either injured or dead but there was a LOT more coming up behind it.
Tanna screamed as one of the Dominion suits thundered towards her, emptying her magazine before scrambling down the trench as its booted feet thudded down behind her. Her rifle didn’t have a bayonetted and she had no more ammo and as the suit turned towards her she knew that this was her time to die, but she was determined to die on her feet, brandishing her rifle like a club. The Bear suit raised its arm, its clawed hand opening before Tanna’s world went white as she fell into the mud of the trenches.
She awoke two hours later, her ears still ringing from the effects of the stunner. Woozy and dazed she was with other prisoners taken during the assault. Up on the top of Hill 203 the flag of the Dominion had replaced the Combine one that flew there and the ‘Warlords’ Hatomoto-Chi was a smoking wreck, its gold and blue armour blackened and rent by gun fire.
Dominion Elementals kept a sharp eye on their prisoners whilst medics from both sides moved amongst the wounded, helping those who they could, giving comfort to those they could not.
“Hey, drink this, the ringing will stop eventually, give it an hour or so.â€
The speakers voice was rather heavily accented and his Japanese was atrocious but his meaning clear as the somewhat vague shape swimming before Tanna’s eyes came into focus as he bent down and passed her a water bottle. High in the sky there was a ball of fire and smoke falling towards the ground, shedding parts of itself as it burned up in the atmosphere. Tanna Nagai didn’t know that it was the Ursa Minor, rammed by a Combine DropShip, finally giving up her battle with the gravity well of the planet, her engines dead. Her crew had managed to evacuate and the largest chunks of her hull were predicted to come down in the Southern Ocean.
“Did…did we win?â€
“No, but you did win your freedom from your oppressors."
It had cost the Rasalhague Dominion more than they had expected but Gram like Baxter, New Wassen, Eltanin and the rest of the Vega Prefecture had fallen.
-
My thanks to marauder for the Shirke piece
Minette New Service, HPG Broadcast
Minette PDZ, Crucis March
Federated Suns
4th July 3110
“In conclusion is there an unidentified WarShip moving through the Crucis March? We do not know. So far all we can confirm that JumpShips have seen shadows and radiation surges in places there should be nothing. Neither MIIO or the Federated Suns Naval Command are willing to comment on rumours nor are they willing to confirm deployments of naval craft in the territories of the Federated Suns however everyone is advised to be wary and report anyting that they believe to be suspicious to the relevant authorities.†The broadcaster said as the transmission ended Stefan Banacek glanced over at Star Captain Gerry Harper.
“See what I said to you this ship has not even engaged an AFFS unit and already there are rumours.â€
“How are we supposed to avoid being cornered by them if already they talk about us?†Harper wondered beginning to wonder if attempting to run through the periphery instead of the Federated Suns.
“This ship is like a technitians multi-tool†Banacek suggested but Harper didn’t seem to grasp the idea “you need to stop thinking like a Star Captain of Clan Snow Raven. You need to think like a pirate†he said seeing Harper’s disgust “your ship is a jump capable tool which is able to travel through multiple systems with a full battery charge you don’t need to travel close to stars.â€
“We still will need to engage JumpShips, DropShips or land on planets to gather resources to keep this WarShip operational.â€
“Aff, but the Sceptre does not need to approach a system we could send land teams…â€
“And again we need to rely on your forces?†He asked irritated at the man over the last week twice Banacek had suggested his unit be used in action while the Sceptre remained out of contact with their enemies.
“Neg, given the AFFS interest in our whereabouts the appearance of an Overlord C-class DropShip on any planet will gain attention.†He suggested to which Harper nodded “instead I suggest we jump into the outer reaches of a system and deploy small teams on small craft. They head into a star system and land on a planet there they make small trades and act like traders while we remain silent in the outer reaches of the system.†He said “that way we can gather intelligence without the AFFS knowing of our position or plans.â€
“That can only go so far, we will have to engage them.â€
“Aff, but at our time and our choosingâ€
Raven Clan Council Hall
Dante
Raven Alliance
12th July, 3110
Taking his place on the podium Khan Vir Sukhanov addresses the council with optimism, “After our successful invasion of the Combine, I now bring both good and bad news to the council. Despite efforts to reinvigorate the units I must remove three clusters from the rolls of the touman, to that end Epsilon Galaxy’s Solahma cluster, the Eighth Garrison cluster, and the Fifteenth Battle cluster have been disbanded.†He lets these words sink in before continuing, “In better news, I have expanded the units assigned to the Watch, the remains of the Eighth Garrison form a core to the Second Rangers. And we have removed the Combine as a threat to our borders, thanks in no small part to Star Admiral Rhai McKenna, whose leadership devastated the local Combine fleet. She has recently been placed in charge of our first Arbitration-class warship, the Dauntless.†Vir intentionally does not mention that her rise was due to his error in calculating the aggressiveness the Combine would display.
Now came the more controversial part, “As many of you know, we have a new Galaxy Commander among us, may I formally introduce Astrid Ramora, previously commanding the Fourth Guards.†Murmurs are heard throughout the chamber as he includes a new Bloodname in her introduction, near the back a pair of hands clap as Star Colonel Bran McTiernen looks on with expectation and commitment to his new commanding officer, this singular clap grows to a roar as the rest of the council takes part.
The rest of the council finishes without serious uproar, but lays out the current state of the clan. The creation of a second bloodname Raldamax had been granted to a ProtoMech pilot who had defeated two opposing BattleMechs in single combat. News of this had spread quickly through the Touman with ProtoMech pilots already vying for the right to gain this new Bloodname and add their own genes to its heritage. The report from the Quatre Belle yards was frustrating indicating that the Dauntless would not be ready until 3112, and while repair has been started on the slips the yard will not be back to it’s prior capabilities for another year or two.
Later in the month, Nexus Ri hosts the first pair of trials over the worlds disputed by the Ravens and Combine. The first trial results in a Raven loss as the Alpha Battalion of the Ryuken-Go dispatches their opposing Ninth Raven Garrison, though the match is very close as the Ninth’s aggression nearly causes the Ryuken’s left flank to collapse, only being held through experience and sheer determination. The second trial pits the Beta Battalion against elements of the Seventh Raven Garrison, it quickly turns into a battle of maneuver eventually leading to the quicker clan units placing the Combine units in an extremely disadvantageous position, Beta surrenders with very few actual shots being made. The results of the trials put Pondicherry back in the hands of the Combine and Rushaven back in the hands of the Alliance.
Loremaster of the Clans office
City of Andrey, Tuyakkid
Independent Clan territory
13th July 3110
Star Colonel Arnesta Devalis stood nervously in front of Loremaster of the Clans Brennley Roshak the younger woman. “There are things that we need to know that we currently do not.†She said explaining Arnesta’s presence in her office.
“We are allowed the trial against the other Clans and the Inner Sphere.â€
“Aff, but we cannot learn all we wish to learn from Trials alone.†Roshak explained “even the Clans themselves are not completely aware of some of the troubles we face. Which is why I have chosen to form a new Watch, one belongs to Tukayyid, one which serves our interests and those of the Clans.â€
“And one that the Clans ae not aware of Quiaff?â€
“Aff for now Star Colonel until we have learned what we need to protect ourselves and the other Clans.â€
“Deception is not honourable.â€
“Neg, it is not, but if it was not effective then the Inner Sphere would currently belong to us which it does not.†Roshak replied “I do not like the need for a Watch but I do see the need for one.†She said “you have been selected to form and command these warriors.â€
“An honour†Devalis replied with not a hint of sarcasm “I am a warrior I am not a spy.â€
“Then you will need to learn to be both Star Colonel†Brennley Roshak said moving around the desk to look at the other officer “I need you to be both Star Colonel the safety of Tukayyid depends on it.â€
Testing Hanger
Hamarr, Sudeten
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
17th July 3110
Chief Scientist Heymer and her staff all bowed as Khan Jaina Pryde entered the hangar. Save for a few Technicians and Labourers the group of Scientists, the Khan and a hulking brute from her Keshik were the only people in the hangar.
“My Khan, thank you for taking time out of your schedule to come, we are all honoured by your presence.â€
“Trying to butter me up before we begin are we Chief Scientist Heymer?†Khan Pryde narrowed her eyes, but there was the hint of a smile on her lips as the Scientist bowed once more, not meeting her gaze.
“Neg my Khan, I am merely speaking the truth.â€
“Indeed… now, what do you have for us?†There was a cold edge to Pryde’s voice, she was not one to reward failure and with the resources diverted for this latest project, failure was not an option for any involved.
The Scientist smiled nervously and gestured towards a large display screen.
“As you know, the Turkina has been our premier Assault Mech since 3052 but we feel it has come to the end of its development cycle barring major and extensive redesigns. As this would not be cost effective, we took the approach of looking at using an existing chassis as frame for a replacement or at least to act as a supplemental machine as the Turkina is far from obsolete.â€
The holo sprang to life, showing the familiar shape of an Onager.
“We took the Onager chassis and stripped it…â€
“Hopefully of its Improved Jump Jets†the Khan’s bodyguard interrupted, his words a threatening rumble that was laden with menace.
“Aff! Whilst powerful they are too heavy to be efficient on so large a machine. So instead we stripped it to the skeleton and reinforced the main joints whilst adding five tons of mass.†Scientist Heymer tried not to sound too scared, but soon settled back into her steady, calm way of speaking.
The image of the Mech rotated, showing it being reduced to a skeleton before it started to grow and change. The Chief Scientist handed over to one of her colleagues who talked about the engine and the changes there but all could see the Khan was either getting bored or becoming impatient with the deluge of ‘minor details’.
“Yes but what of the weapons and performance?†The Khan sounded bored, not a good sign for those giving the presentation.
“Our initial prototype featured a gauss rifle but we have replaced it with an imported Hell’s Horses HAG-20. As time goes on we hope to open production of the weapon ourselves…†She began but the Khan’s glance made it clear that it was a topic for another day. “Keeping the same tactical paradigm as the Gyrfalcon that is now entering service this new Mech is built to engage at long range with precision weapons fire. Spheroid Mechs or those used by the Dominion tend to be crude clubs; this is a rapier to be wielded by our expert and honourable Warriors.â€
The Scientist nodded and there was a dull rumble as one of the Mech bay’s blast doors slid open and light spilled out. Perhaps it was intended but the result was quite impressive as a large bipedal Battlemech came into view, floodlights illuminating its freshly painted armour, proudly baring the jade green of a Turkina Keshik Mech. The Mech’s left arm was a long multi-barrelled type of HAG, whilst a large laser sat in a flexible mounting on each shoulder.
The right hand was a hooked claw, based in part on the Onager’s but instead of straight, almost scissor like blades, this Mech’s hand actuator was shaped into a trio of sharp looking claws, their tips painted a deep red.
The Scientists had clearly put considerable work into the shape of the design, long gone was the bulky, inelegant frame of the Onager. This machine was far sleeker despite its greater mass and its cockpit wasn’t some blocky affair but shaped more like a bird of prey’s hooked beak. This avian look was massively reinforced by the huge Partial Wing system, locked into its combat configuration, splayed and raised, the undersides a brilliant yellow.
“Magnificent… Is it ready to be taken out for testing?†Khan Pryde drank in the sight of the Mech before her. It was an avatar and a weapon, a towering monster that would strike fear into those who saw it and inspire those who followed it; she sounded and looked a bit awed.
“Aff my Khan, all weapons are active and a full war load is on board.†Heymer stated proudly, glad at the reaction from the Khan even as her face dropped as the Falcon’s leader walked passed her, heading towards the crew gantry to climb into her Mech.
“My Khan, if you will head this way we will be able to observe the Trial between this Mech and its opponent a Turkina Prime.â€
“I will be taking it into battle.†It wasn’t a request, it was an order.
“But… this is a live fire exercise...â€
“I agree my Khan; we should let the test pilot take it out.†That came from Star Captain Victor Malthus and at his voice Khan Pryde stopped and turned her face as cold as the void.
“You doubt my abilities quiaff?â€
“Neg!†Warrior and Scientist stated at the same time.
“Good. Do not tell my opponent who they are facing, or you will face me I wish this to be a true test one which the other warrior does not hold back from.â€
“A-aff my Khan†Chief Scientist Heymer said as Khan Pryde got onto the gantry lift. She was suddenly immensely glad they had installed the Clans first full head ejection system into this new Mech.
“If anything happens to her, I will hold you personally responsible. Do I make myself clear Chief Scientist?†The Khan’s bodyguard was behind Heymer, she didn’t hear him move, but she felt the grip of his hand on her shoulder and could see the alarmed looks from some of her colleagues who would not dare help if the Warrior decided to punish their superior for any failure, real or perceived. The Scientist nodded slightly, her throat suddenly dry.
“A-Aff…I accept any and all responsibility.â€
“Good. The Khan likes you, but fail her and there will not be enough left of you to identify your body. Am I clear?†The Star Captain’s voice was even, steady, he wasn’t making a threat, he was stating a fact.
“Affâ€
“Reactor Online, Sensors Online, Weapon systems Online, All systems nominal.†Moving into the Circle of Equals the Mech was running well. It only took her a few minutes to get use to the cockpit layout, to configure the weapons into her own firing patterns.
“Warrior! I am Star Captain Andreas, your defeat will swift, yield and I may take you as my bondsman!â€
The broadband transmission came from a Turkina, Khan Pryde’s sensors showing it moving into the circle. The squat, broad profile of the Turkina was totally familiar to any Jade Falcon Warrior or anyone who faced them, it was an old design, but it was still formidable.
“Star Captain Andreas, you are old, you have failed to earn a Bloodname, you have failed as a Warrior and your defeat here will be the last failure of your life.†Pryde shot back, hoping he didn’t recognise her voice.
“So be it, you will not get any mercy from me!†At that the Turkina broke into a lumbering walk, its broad feet thumping into the grassy ground of the Trial arena. Activating up her ECM, Khan Pryde broke her machine into a run, rapidly accelerating to a full 64kph as her defensive systems alerted her to a missile lock from the still distant Turkina.
“Not bad, but not in range…†Pryde muttered, steering her Mech into a dense copse of trees, the ECM throwing out false targeting information and ghost targets for the Turkina to try and track.
“Hiding in the woods like a Spheroid coward eh?â€
She gave him her ‘answer’ by stomping on the jump jet pedals and there was a rumble as the jump jets fired. The partial wing snapped into position, going from its vertical position to horizontal as the jets fired. The wings moved and shifted, working to increase airflow over them, whilst little thrusters on the tips of the wings fired, adding stability whilst the Mech leapt through the air.
The Khan twisted her Mech’s waist, grunting as she ignored the shaking from the jump even though it was far smoother than her usual Grand Summoner's jumps. At extreme range, she picked out the Turkina, the Mech’s fire control systems and targeting computer working seamlessly to highlight the distant Mech before she fired.
A pair of bright green lances of laser light raked across the Turkina’s right side, leaving a pair of glowing furrows near the right shoulder.
Even as Pryde’s Mech thundered earthbound the Turkina was returning fire, a blizzard of LRM’s as well as both ER PPC’s reaching out towards her Mech.
One of the LRM salvo’s, spoofed by the ECM failed to lock on properly, missing cleanly above and behind the Mech as it fell towards the ground. One particle cannon blast ripped into the top of some of the trees, blasting them into kindling. But the other LRM and PPC found their target, the energy bolt venting its anger against Khan Pryde’s Mech’s chest, whilst eight missiles cratered armour across the Mech as its clawed feet slammed into the ground.
She knew she was faster and more agile, but the Turkina was more heavily armed, she knew to ‘trade’ with it would be a losing game with terminal consequences. Not a game Khan Pryde wanted to play.
Using the rolling hills of the testing ground she moved towards the big contact of the Turkina, both Mech’s stomping towards one another at full speed. Breaking out of cover Khan Pryde was already turned to face her target and she mashed the firing triggers as the crosshairs pulsed a healthy blue indicating a lock.
Still at long range for Clan combat, or ‘true’ fighting range as many Clan Warriors tended to think, the HAG let out a snarling blurt of hyper-velocity slugs, joined by a pair of ER laser bolts. The slower Turkina had to turn its whole body, its lack of a waist assembly, sacrificed to make it a squat target was caught seemingly by surprise. It seemed the Star Captain Andreas had underestimated his opponents speed.
The volley of HAG slugs raked across the Turkina’s right flank and arm, the impacts sparking even at this distance whilst her lasers left let more glowing gouges in the armour of the right arm and torso.
The Turkina stopped, twisting as fast as it could, the twin LB-5’s hammering their answer to the incoming fire, whilst both PPC’s spat bolts of bright blue lightning at the Khan’s Mech, the 95-ton machine staggering as it rocked under Khan Pryde’s fire. One LB-5 round slammed into the Khan’s Mech, the rest of the fire going wide, punching smoking holes in the ground or going wide, hitting nothing but air and Khan Pryde grinned.
“No wonder you have not earned a Bloodname, you cannot hit the broadside of a Dropship! Let me end your shame!†Her voice was full of malice as she fired again; pressing down on the jump pedals again, throwing her Mech into another long, but controlled jump.
A volley of missiles shot under her Mech and she grinned, her Mech’s sensors telling her that one of the particle cannons in the Turkina’s right arm was disabled as the HAG walked a volley of slugs across the Turkina. Still one particle bolt and a cluster of LB-5 rounds caught her Mech in the leg and arm, but the partial wing was already working to control the descent as she opened the range with her jump.
Khan Pryde took her time now, using her longer ranged guns to hammer at the Turkina whilst its responses were becoming weaker. Another blast from her lasers saw the Turkina’s right arm fall away at the elbow, the mangled limb trailing myomer and cables. She laughed as she slowly, carefully ripped the other Assault Mech to shreds, a battle that ended in a huge blast as the LRM ammo in the Turkina’s torso was ripped open by a volley of HAG fire.
The crippled Mech fell onto its face, smoke belching from its ruined torso, one leg scraping the ground as it tried to stand.
“Star Captain Andreas, know that you faced Khan Jaina Pryde this day, and know that you fought well. Your defeat has ushered in the arrival of this Mech to the Tourman, and know that you die with honour.â€
It was child’s play to target the Turkina’s cockpit as the Mech stopped struggling, there was no reply from the downed machine, and as she fired, Khan Pryde knew there would not be one. “Chief Scientist Heymer, I am most pleased with you and your colleagues work, how soon to begin construction?†Khan Pryde was grinning dried her hair with a towel having dismounted from the Mech whilst Tech’s and her Scientists practically ran over to her to make sure she was unharmed.
“We have six prototypes complete now and…â€
“You have five, this one is mine.â€
“I stand corrected my Khan, with your authorization we can send the prototypes to our production facilities. It is then a matter of resource allocation and tool construct…â€
“I asked for an answer, not detailed description.â€
“Six months, perhaps five if we can disperse the design team to help set up facilities here on Sudeten and on Ark Royal.â€
“Make it five and you will receive all the materials you need to build the future OmniMechs of our Touman.†All the Scientists perked up at that prospect, their somewhat nervous smiles becoming more genuine, less concerned despite the extra workload that had just been dumped on their shoulders. They started talking excitedly before the Chief Scientist Heymer silenced their chattering with a chop of her hand before speaking into the radio again.
“And have you thought of a name for the new Mech my Khan?â€
“I had thought of Golden Eagle, but neg, it shall be called the Shrike.â€
“A fine name, my Khan.â€
“Of course it is Chief Scientist, I chose it after all.â€
Khan Pryde heard the sycophantic laughter from the clearly relived Scientists and Technicians, there wasn’t going to be any sudden promotions due to the death of their leaders and they were happy they had both delivered a Mech the Khan liked and thereby avoided her wrath. But Khan Pryde paid their relief no heed, her focus was on her new Mech, while not the OmniMech her Grand Summoner was her thoughts were already turning to what they would accomplish in battle together.
Trial of Possession
Qandahar, Qandahar Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
24th July 3110
Katrine Devalis was in her element her Nova Cats were facing off against the Draconis Combine Mustered Society on the world of Qandahar. After their Batchall the DCMS commander with two regiments of troops had agreed to meet Katrine Devalis in a limited Trial of Possession which she was currently winning. In the air above the Draconis Combine lines DropShips suddenly appeared over the First Amphigean Light Assault and the Fourth Ghost Regiment. “This is Katrine Devalis†she said from her Deimos OmniMech’s cockpit “you lose great honour bringing in additional troops Combine commander. I will also lose honour and match your numbers.†She said
“It is you that has lost honour Nova Cat these troops are yours†the Amphigean’s commander said Katrine focused her OmniMech’s sensors on the DropShips seeing one of them was a Vanguard-class vessel. She knew that would be only one person and immediately changed to the Nova Cat Galaxy command frequency.
“You steal my honour! You stavag son of a bitch I let you live!†She stated angrily watching as Nova Cat BattleMechs and Battle Armour dropped from the DropShips engaging the DCMS forces as they fell.
“You are wasting precious time Katrine Devalis†Khan Canin Rosse said as his own Dragon Cat OmniMech fell from the Vanguard blasting holes in a Draconis Combine Quickdraw. “We have many things that we must discuss.†He said as the OmniMech came in for a landing.
“Aff, we agreed to meet after these trials†Devalis said turning gunning down a Panther blowing the light BattleMech to pieces.
“These trials were unnecessary I informed you of such.†He replied “your actions simply provoke further responses from the Combine which we do not currently need.â€
“The Dragon is not ready to respond.†Katrine said “we are ready.†She said the Nova Cats had continued to make small raids but Qandahar and Kamarod were two further indications to the Draconis Combine that their Clan was not just a nuisance but also a threat, while their Khan seemed to want to make the Clan look unthreatening. It was yet another thing that they would discuss on their trip to Tukayyid.
With the addition of Khan Rosse’s forces both Quandahar and Kamarod fell quickly with the First Amphigean, Fourth and Sixth Ghost Regiments all destroyed by the Nova Cat forces. With both systems secured Khan Rosse and saKhan Devalis quickly left the system heading for Tukayyid.
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Mechbay
Hamilton, Hell’s Horses OZ
8th August 3110
“It preformed well within our expected perametres†The technicial said looking up at the BattleMech “we are ready to move to the next stage of development, Star Colonel Colin.â€
“It is up to the Khan’s choice†the younger lightly skinned man said looking up at the Parash BattleMech “you are correct it did well after years of testing it was nice to see it at war.â€
“Not just your Khan’s†a third darker skinned woman said on her uniform she wore the insignia of Clan Wolf. “Remember, Star Colonel, Clan Wolf helped bring this technology into the fold it is only right that my Clan sees the benefits of it also. We wish to see the full development of this technology.â€
“For all of the Clans†Star Colonel Colin replied as the tech looked between the two Clan warriors “that was the plan to bring this technology to all of the Clans quiaff?â€
“Aff, I believe that was the Khan’s plan. Once the Wolves and Horses benefit then all Clans will see the rewards of our labours and we will be remembered.†The female warrior replied “however plans can change†she admitted “I was assigned here to oversee the development of this technology the victories here and elsewhere prove its worthiness.â€
“I wonder why you did not develop this in your own Occupation Zone? You have plenty combat opportunities there.â€
“Aff, but opportunities too close to those who may steal it, we have no interest in the enemies of the Clans gaining access to this technology.â€
“I thought this technology originated in the Inner Sphere?†The tech said gaining a glare from both of the warriors “of course I may be wrong.†He said making a hasty retreat.
“You will have to have him and the other techs eliminated.†The female warrior said “we cannot have the Clans believing this technology is not ours.â€
“The truth will come our eventually, Star Colonel Kya, if we do that then the project will be delayed while further technicians are trained.â€
“Aff, I understand but secrecy must be maintained.†The Hells Horse Star Colonel nodded they would have to begin again.
High Command Meeting
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
10th August 3110
“Coordinator, the Nova Cats are in a precarious position and are far from their core territories. If we were to strike them at the right position we could break their supply lines drive them from our Periphery regions before they become too entrenched.†Warlord Minamoto Yoshitsune of Pesht said.
“Are you trying to counter my commands?†Coordinator Akira Kurita demanded looking at the man. “We have already deployed troops to the Federated Suns border their focus is on Benjamin our troops are ready to fall on their lines.â€
“The Nova Cats threaten the stability of my region Coordinator. I must do my duty to the people of Pesht and the people of the Draconis Combine.†The older man said “however the decision is ultimately yours.†He said bowing his head.
“Gunji-no-Kanrei Kurita your suggestion for our course of action?â€
“While Warlord Yoshitsune’s council is wise†he said looking at the other Warlord who nodded his thanks “our troops are already in position to strike the Federated Suns to have them move again would delay any offensive by a matter of weeks.â€
“And in weeks the Federated Suns could be on Benjamin! We need to turn them away.†Warlord Tsion Ben-Judah of Benjamin said he was still angry that the Coordinator had not deployed troops to Benjamin to begin the counter-offensive. He had settled for another attack on the Draconis March.
“I agree Pesht is a large region†Akira Kurita said “we need the forces based there ready to counter the Bears, Ravens and Nova Cats an offensive at this time. We will support Pesht’s defence but for now we need to break House Davion’s assault into our territory.†He said turning from Warlord Yoshitsune to Gunji-no-Kanrei Kurita “command the assault to go ahead as planned.†He commanded making his decision final. Hours later regiments launched into the Federated Suns attacking Capra, Cassias, McGehee and Udibi by the end of August the weak mercenary defensive line is shattered by the Draconis Combine’s offensive with two units Aaron’s Eradicators and the Second Dismal Disinherited are completely destroyed in the fighting and several others driven back.
Estate’s Generals
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
14th August 3110
At a meeting of the Estates Generals on Tharkad Archon Jessica Steiner receives the support of the worlds of the Lyran Commonwealth but she realizes that her realm cannot continue to take the losses that it has over the last few years. In an effort to bring the Estates Generals back on side Archon Jessica Steiner authorizes assaults by Lyran and mercenary forces against five worlds still held by the Stone Spirits and two held by Clan Jade Falcon. The Lyrans are successful in capturing all five Stone Spirit systems and Clermont from the Jade Falcons unfortunately these successes does not reduce the threat to Coventry, Donegal, Tharkad, Odessa or Arcturus.
In an effort to appease the Estate Generals and the Provincial leaders Archon Jessica Steiner agrees not to form additional Lyran Guard or Lyran Regular units and instead, with money taken directly from the Steiner family funds, she forms new units named for the Provincial capitals. As a result the Coventry Cuirassier’s, the Alarion Airborne Assault and the Halfway Mechanized units are all added to Lyran rosters though each is only two regiments in strength and they are among the weakest in all of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Force’s.
Caesar’s Hearth (Overlord-class DropShip)
Deep Space, Periphery
20th August 3110
Aboard the Overlord Dropship the MDS Caesar’s Hearth there was a mixture of nervous fear and nervous excitement. Ahead the tugs moving the THS C. Sagan fired their thrusters one last time, bringing the ship to a halt before moving to a safe distance. One old Leopard remained attached to the ship’s hull it was home to the repair crews working inside the partially active ship.
Whilst her hull plating still needed to be painted the decontamination and replacement of the main hull was finally complete and tech’s had been swarming over her insides, rewiring the vessel, they were replacing time worn computer cores and data systems with those the Marian Hegemony had acquired, stolen or purchased at considerable expense.
“My Caesar, we can begin at any time.†Caesar Aleksandr Ward nodded at Sister Cassandra’s voice and gentle hand upon his shoulder. She was just as excited as he was, but like the leader of the Marian Hegemony, she wasn’t showing her emotions.
“The word is given, begin single reaction ignition.â€
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“Alright! We’ve got the go ahead. Make sure the Fomalhaut’s Blade has a steady feed, we don’t want a bloody power surge, not now!â€
A chorus of affirmatives answered the Chief engineer, watching the techroom a raised platform above the reconditioned reactor room. Four of the ancient GE-2000 ‘Millennium’ type reactors dominated the chamber, old tokomak types that were so integral to the ship that simply removing them would have meant more time and resources consumed. So, the Marians and their support from Interstellar Expeditions had instead set to getting the old reactors working bringing the ancient ship alive.
Several hundred tons of superconducting magnets that would have powered regiments worth of gauss rifles were painstakingly installed and fitted over a period of months once the aft section was at least air tight. All they needed was one, just one to work.
“Systems check!â€
“Coolant systems online.â€
“Fuel pumps active and in lockdown.â€
“Magnetic fields building their charge.â€
“Computer systems online, all good!â€
The chief engineer grinned ‘Well, no guts, no galaxy…’ he thought “begin fuel feed!†There was a soft rumble as the fuel pumps activated, feeding a stream of massively pressurized hydrogen into the heart of the reactor. The partially metallic hydrogen slush was grabbed by the reactors magnetic coils, twisting the gas into invisible torus shapes in the pressurized chamber of the reactor.
“Initiating laser ignition in 3…. 2.... 1!†There was a warm blue flash from within the reactor and a steadily rising hum that seemed to run through the whole ship.
“Report!â€
“We have plasma ignition! Magnetic field is holding! Temperature at… 200 million Kelvin and going nowhere!†The tech reported triumphantly. That was the number they needed to hear, the reaction was self-sustaining, a helical blaze of blue light held in place by immensely strong magnetic fields, fed by super pressurized hydrogen. “Sir, do we have permission to feed into the ship.â€
“Damn right you do! Bring it up to 50% and let’s get some life into the old girl!†The Chief engineer said whilst quietly praying ‘please don’t blow up… please don’t blow up…’
“Roger! Disengaging batteries… now! Activating feed… now!†The lights across the C. Sagan dimmed for a moment before blazing once more, re-wired computers came online and the whine of the reactor changed its pitch to a dull deep rumble as the C. Sagan came to life once more.
Outside the ship’s running lights came on, the lights that illuminated her name blazed whilst the massive rotating section started to move. Aboard the Caesar's Hearth there was cheering, applause and toasts to the Caesar, his wisdom and of course to the Marian Hegemony.
“My Caesar! This is a great day, the Sagan lives.†A fawning minister said, bowing as low as his age would allow.
“No, not the C. Sagan, the Stellaris Rex lives.†Caesar Aleksandr Ward replied his eyes fixed on the battered hull of his ship, already thinking of what he could do with his prize. And then he glanced at Cassandra, and he knew she was thinking exactly the same thing.
She glanced down as she felt her hand taken in the Caesar’s and she nodded. “A good name my Caesar.â€
“Well I can’t call her Cassandra’s Might… perhaps an escort vessel for her though…â€
“Oh so you see me as an escort hmm…?â€
The younger man snorted “Never.†Cassandra squeezed Aleksandr Ward’s hand slightly and the younger man turned looking at his assembled ministers. “Gentlemen, ladies, this is a great day for the Hegemony and for us all. Aaron I want to know who was the engineer responsible for today’s test?â€
“A Chief O’Brien my Lord.â€
“Promote him two ranks, and everyone on his staff up a rank, I think some lands could be given to the Engineer in reward for his hard work and dedication.â€
“My Caesar is generous.â€
“Hah, no, your Caesar understands that hard work should be rewarded, unless you disagree.â€
“Never my Lord!†The minister of Finance said, eyes bulging in alarm.
“Good. See that you don’t.†Ward said, looking back out at the Hegemony’s greatest achievement under his guiding hand, a cold smile on his lips.
SLDF Conference Room, Intelligence Center
Milligan’s World
Shared World, Star League Defence Force/Raven Alliance
25th August 3110
Major General Aaron Scarborough entered the conference room to a lack of military decorum he was used to while hundreds of light years from the Star League Protectorate he still expected SLDF officers to act like professionals especially those on the front-line. Commanding the Third Special Operations Group of the Blackhearts division had been the best years of his life his assignment to Milligan’s World and the Combine/Raven border felt very much like a demotion, though his rank said otherwise. He had managed to retain a company of the Third SOG in his reassignment. The strange virus which the Ravens quickly dispatched had raised eyebrows back on Terra, and a one of the First SOG’s NBC groups had been temporarily assigned to him to study the make up and origins of the virus.
But he was here to receive a report from one of the units assigned to surveil the trials, settlement, and construction of Nexus Ri. Captain Delanie nodded as he entered, “Welcome, sir, thank you for coming on such short notice.â€
“Thank you, Captain, we’ll exchange pleasantries later perhaps you can now get on with your report†Aaron sighed taking a seat.
“This may change things, there appears to be more going on between the Ravens and the Combine than we expected.†Aaron sat up straighter, his curiosity piqued, and waited for the Captain to continue.
“As you know the Ravens and Combine set up Nexus Ri as a way to combat their differences in a way less destructive than their last couple of... spats. While we currently believe the trials here have been winding up, we don’t think they’ve reached their peak yet - there are still a half a dozen worlds the Ravens are likely to trial over and at least three the Combine wants back. In the last trial, over the world of Brasha, we noted something strange, if you’d please look to the screen.†Delanie motioned to one of the walls, turning on a screen taking up much of the its area.
On the screen around 20 clan ‘Mechs exchanged fire with a battalion of Combine ‘Mechs displaying the insignia of the Fourth Sun Tzang. Interspersed here and there, were battle armored troopers of both sides, what appeared to be a short star’s worth against a company of Kuritans, including a platoon of Kishi battle armor.
“I didn’t think the Kishi were being assigned to training units.†Aaron noted.
“They aren’t, or they shouldn’t be, their production is still very limited and the disruption caused by Sceptre didn’t help matters any. If you look closer,†the screen zoomed in on one of the Kishi, “the paint here around the unit crest is newer than that further away, and if you notice, the BattleMechs on both sides are pointedly ignoring the battle armor. Often, in similar situations a BattleMech will take pot shots at battle armor, but there is none of that here.â€
“So, the BattleMech trial was a cover for another trial - that doesn’t seem particularly clan-like. This looks flimsy to me; you wouldn’t have brought me in on this unless you had more.â€
“Yes, within hours of the Ravens ‘winning’ Brasha back to the Alliance, the star lord-class DCS Dragon’s Maw jumped out of system on its normal schedule back to New Samarkand. It never made it, instead, an identical ship arrived on its schedule, but its IFF codes returned DCS Shadow of Luna. We were able to retrieve some grainy images from a spysat we have near the transit point, showing this†Delanie indicates the screen again.
A pair of massive DropShips detached from the Star Lord, at first glance appearing to be run-of-the-mill Behemoth-class dropships, but there was something different about them, the lines were smoother, and the engines seemed slightly more efficient. Then it clicked, “those weren’t made in the Inner Sphere, what happened to them?â€
“We don’t know, Behemoths can’t land and take off from planets repeatedly so typically they will drop their cargo at an orbiting supply station. We have eyes on all of these and didn’t see the DropShips approach any of them. New Samarkand is a very heavily populated system though, and they could have ended up nearly anywhere.â€
“Redouble your efforts in the New Samarkand system, figure out where those two DropShips went. We need a better presence in Nexus Ri, and I have just the idea for how we can do that.†Maybe this assignment won't be so quiet after all.
In the coming week Nexus Ri had hosted another pair of trials, in addition to the one mentioned above, none of it bode well for the Combine. They lost both Brasha and Cerberus while failing to retake Tabayama. In response, to this the Combine surprises the Raven units as they are changing defenders assigned to the planet resulting in a mixed battle including both the leaving Ninth Garrison and the arriving Second Garrison. Lack of coordination results in the Combine succeeding in taking ownership of Weisau.
Early in September, the SLDF trials for an enclave, and while neither the Combine nor the Ravens want them they acquiesce to the trial, though the potential enclave is very heavily limited. The SLDF unit backed by members of the Third SOG who disrupt the Raven and Combine formations, striking at officers with extreme precision and winning the day.
My thanks to Vition (Raven) and marauder (Marian) stories. The contributions are most welcome.
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There's bits and pieces from me, James Tanaga, Vition2 and marauder648 so here we go enjoy
Supply Raid
Dothan, Point Barrow Combat Theatre
Crucis March, Federated Suns
2nd September 3110
After two months of cloak and dagger operations sending small teams to gather intelligence on systems of the Federated Suns periphery the Sceptre had reached the point where it needed to raid a planetary system of the Federated Suns. With the intelligence they had already gathered the system of Dothan had been picked by Star Captain Gerry Harper, Quinn Shu and Stefan Banacek as a likely target where they could gather the food and supplies required to keep the Sceptre and its crew operational. Stefan Banacek’s Blood Asp OmniMech stood watching as Elementals from his unit loaded cargo trailers with crates of food and barrels of water. Two days before he had landed on the planet and defeated the planetary militia now his unit was in control of the spaceport and the local population. So far resistance had been minimal.
“Control to Sierra One!†Came an almost panicked reply he knew that it could not go so easily for long.
“Go ahead†he replied calmly long ago learning that losing ones temper was not the best way to deal with a combat situation.
“Sceptre has sent a burst transmission their long range sensors detected a Federated Suns Davion III-class Destroyer at the Nadir Point and DropShips making a run for the planet.†Control explained neither was of great concern the Davion III was no threat to the Sceptre, which was currently hidden in deep space, and the DropShips would take several days to get to the planet.
“Why the urgency?â€
“Additional ground forces have been detected approaching from the south, at least a combined-arms Battalion.â€
“You could have started with that!†Banacek snapped “command trinary move out we will fight a rearguard action to buy time to load the supplies we need into the DropShips.†As well as their own vessel the Konstantin Banacek’s team had captured an old Leopard-class DropShip from the spaceport although it was barely space worthy with a little work the vessel could prove useful in the future.
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An hour later Stefan Banacek turned his Blood Asp to the right targeting a Shadow Hawk BattleMech with his arm mounted lasers. The opal coloured beams of the heavy lasers burning through the BattleMech’s right torso and arm armour. Moments later a tightly packed group of six short range missiles tore into the BattleMech knocking it to the ground. Stefan glanced at his OmniMech’s stores he was out of gauss rifle ammunition and down to his last half dozen reloads of his short range missile system but they had succeeded in their mission his trinary of BattleMechs, vehicles and Battle Armour had successfully turned back attacks from an enemy that had superior numbers and they had bought the DropShips enough time to load up the supplies they needed. “Sierra One to Control†he called out
“Go ahead, Sierraâ€
“Bring in the cargo haulers, I want to strip the wreckage of any useful technology and ammunition, it may be a while before we are able to do this again.†He commanded turning to survey the battle moments later his OmniMech was struck by a flight of long range missiles which punched holes in his torso armour but fortunately did no lasting damage. Ahead he saw the last four BattleMechs approaching three were medium class designs while the fourth was a sixty ton Merlin BattleMech. “This is Stefan Banacek stand down or we will destroy your force.†He said his enemy must have known they were outmatched but continued to approach a particle cannon shot flying high over the Blood Asp. “As you wish†he said keying in his entire unit but leaving the general frequency also open “all units the last of the defenders are approaching they may expect us to show them honour as Clan warriors are known for. But what these people need to learn and what all of the Federated Suns need to learn we are not Clansmen!†He said as further fire from the approaching four Mechs was fired at his unit still no-one fired maintaining their discipline “which is why I now command… FIRE!†He said in one clear command the entire unit fired as one in a terrifying display of concentrated fire from the combined arms unit all four BattleMechs were torn to pieces, two of the MechWarriors successfully ejected from the hail of fire which was falling on them but none of the BattleMechs remained standing following the engagement.
With the defenders destroyed and their cargo loaded Stefan Banacek’s unit quickly extracted itself from the planet and headed to their rendezvous with the Sceptre which waited ready to leave the system. By the time the AFFS reinforcements and their destroyer escort arrived at Dothan the rogue Strike Cruiser had already jumped from the system. Days later across Dothan and from there across the Federated Suns gun camera footage of Banacek’s forces tearing apart the final lance of defenders on Dothan was repeatedly broadcast by news agencies leading to demands of immediate action in response as worlds cried out for additional defences.
Trial of Possession
Orestes, Coyote Occupation Zone
7th September 3110
Elements of the First Rasalhague Bears Cluster burned in system, escorted by the WarShip Silverdale which provided cover for their forces. Around the force several assault DropShips supplanted the WarShip’s firepower. Approaching the planet the Silverdale came to a halt well outside weapons range of the ground as the DropShips entered the atmosphere.
On the ground the Coyotes 120th Striker Cluster and the Tenth ProtoMech Assault Cluster opposed the landings, with aerospace fighters battling over the landing zones, filling the sky with broken and burning aircraft. The first cluster to touch ground on Orestes came under attack from a large number of ProtoMechs supported by Stars of light and medium Mechs. Still the First Rasalhague Bears pressed on, it being a Rasalhague unit held firm, pushing back the Coyote attackers.
The biggest battle though was the fight for the Odin Manufacturing plant. Fought miles away from the site the Seventieth Striker Cluster squared off against the further elements of the 120th who were backed up by the formidable defences outside the factory that were in turn manned by solhama troops.
The Commander of the First Rasalhague Bears Cluster Star Colonel Clementine Hall fell, her Kodiak II beheaded by a lucky hit during the melee as the two Clan forces collided whilst Star Colonel Lyla Bekker, of the Coyotes, was killed as her Savage Coyote erupted into flames and exploded as her ammo cooked off.
At the main Trial site elements of the Coyote Thirty-fourth Striker Cluster attempted to make a flanking assault on the Bears to catch the invaders in a deadly crossfire. Unfortunately for the Coyotes the Striker Cluster ran into the attached First Tyr Cluster who were acting as a tactical reserve in case the Coyotes broke their bid. With both Clans showing that they were ready to violate the original trial’s bid a mass melee quickly broke out as an entire Coyote light BattleMech star was crushed in mass fire by the Bears.
With both sides now fighting heavily the trial quickly spiralled out of control with entire stars eliminated on both sides. Dominon aerospace support was called in to silence the guns of the Orestes plant and suffered heavily in doing so but the Arrow turrets were silenced, all be it for heavy cost with large elements of the Bear force destroyed around the factory and elsewhere with the factory secured but with the Rasalhague Bears defeated in the main trial the battle was essentially a draw. The surviving senior Rasalhague Dominion Star Captain, an Eileen Bekker, from the First Rasalhague Bears Cluster requested Hegira and was granted the request. Because both sides had violated the Trial the Coyotes allowed the Bears to remove their salvage and granted them a ransom of a production run from the factories the Bears had captured during the fighting.
Elsewhere along the Coyote/Rasalhague border the two Clans exchanged several worlds with Kobe, Kranston and Hyperion captured by the Coyotes and Satalice and Nox captured by the Bears. Meanwhile recently captured Bondsman Morgan arrived on Alshian to begin his service with the Rasalhague Dominion.
Lyran Assaults
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
14th September 3110
With the Jade Falcons perilously close to Coventry the Lyran High Command order their regiments do something about it. In an effort to relieve the threat on Coventry Lyran commands target Biuqui, Krievci and Wroclaw.
Both recently formed Coventry Cuirassiers Regiments supported by the LCS Thomas Fredrick Bradford, a Commonwealth-class Light Cruiser, target the world of Biuqui targeting elements of the Second Falcon Jaegers Cluster on the world recapturing it.
The Twenty-fifth Arcturan Guards RCT supported by the LCS Graf Markol von Hild, another Commonwealth-class Light Cruiser, strikes the world of Krievci targeting elements of the Third Falcon Hussars Cluster.
On the back of a successful streak of battles the LCAF’s Nineteenth Donegal Guards attempt to wrest control over Wroclaw but they run into the rest of the Third Falcon Hussars along with the Fifth Ebon Guard Cluster. Although they are able to crush the remaining Third Falcon Hussars troops the Nineteenth are overwhelmed by the Fifth Ebon Guard units.
Trial of Possession
Outskirts of Phillip Drummond City
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
21st September 3110
For fifty-two years the world of New Barcella had remained exclusively the domain of Clan Nova Cat with no other faction even knowing the location of the system that was until three days before when the Snow Raven WarShip Vienna Singer, Vision Seeker-class Battle-cruiser, had arrived in the system along with several JumpShips carrying ground forces. The Snow Ravens had immediately declared a Trial of Possession over production from one of the Nova Cat’s factories with three Nova Cat Battle-cruisers closing in on the Vienna Singer the Ravens had taken the surprising step to request safcon which the Nova Cats had agreed to.
Now three days later Star Colonel Ilfanesh Deleportas sat in her Nova Cat II OmniMech facing off against two binaries of Snow Ravens. She saw an Omen BattleMech approach the Nova Cat lines her Nova Cat II’s weapons outranged the Omen’s and immediately she targeted the Raven BattleMech with both her Extended Range Particle cannons following up moments later with the OmniMech’s pulse lasers burning armour off the Omen’s torso and legs. The Raven Omen stalked forwards engaging with its pulse laser but missed its mark the Nova Cat II defended by the ECM system. Ilfanesh turned to the right moving several paces clear of her previous position striking out with both particle cannons causing more damage to the large assault a wave of advanced tacticle missiles struck out towards the Nova Cat II but the anti-missile cannon mounted over the cockpit shot down several of them before they could reach the OmniMech leaving only six to strike the armour. Ilfanesh cursed as she continued on her path flanking the Omen striking out with the pulse laser one struck the left leg of the Omen burning armour but it was not enough to stop the assault BattleMech which struck out with more ATMs, its pulse laser and LBX-class Autocannon. The pulse laser struck the Nova Cat II but the laser reflective armour lessened the hit, missiles were cut from the air protecting the OmniMech but there was nothing to stop the autocannon blow. Striking low on the Nova Cat II’s left torso the autocannon smashed plates but didn’t penetrate its protective skin. Ilfanesh stopped her path instead turning and heading across the Omen’s path hitting the BattleMech with another two particle cannons shots these two shots were enough to penetrate the hull burning the gyro. As the eighty-five ton BattleMech fell laser, missile and autocannon fire filled the air but none threatening any of the Nova Cat units Ilfanesh kept her guns on the downed Omen for several moments but when the pilot began to shut down their BattleMech she turned towards another target.
As the Nova Cat II turned the anti-missile system automatically activated cutting down several short range missiles which had been fired by a group of Elementals. She didn’t hesitate firing the pulse lasers into the point of Elementals cutting down two of the troopers before the point could jump clear. The remaining three troopers tried to close on the Nova Cat II firing another salvo of short range missiles towards the OmniMech but this time the anti-missile system cut them all down. Ilfanesh tried to backtrack away from the remaining three Elementals triggering both particle cannons and ignoring the heat build up as she cut down another of the Battle Armour troopers. The remaining two troopers tried to jump onto the OmniMech but Ilfanesh was ready for them swinging the left arm she smacked one of the genetically modified troopers out of the air sending him flying. The last Elemental attached themselves to the Nova Cat II’s hull but she was ready for him dropping to the ground Ilfanesh rolled the OmniMech quickly crushing the last Elemental.
Standing her OmniMech up Ilfanesh Deleportas saw that the Battle continued to turn against the Snow Ravens with the Nova Cats pushing against the remaining Ravens at all points. “This is Star Colonel Ilfanesh Deleportas of the 453rd Pouncer Cluster to the Snow Raven commander your positions are compromised you have fought well, I offer you Hegira, it is time to accept.†She said targeting a Raven Flamberge BattleMech but holding fire.
“This is Star Captain Lorenzo Magnus Clan Snow Raven accepts your offer. All units of the 101st Raven Battle Cluster stand down. Nova Cat commander the field is yours but we will return.†He warned from the Bondsmen taken from battle the Nova Cats learned that the Ravens had found out where New Barcella was from warriors captured from Katrine Devalis troops.
High Orbit
Erdvynn, Erdvynn Province
Periphery
29th September 3110
Star Admiral Malcolm Lynn studied the tactical screen closely. Three weeks ago pirates from the Zeta Sisters, the four systems claimed by the Lyran Commonwealth Rimward of the Erdvynn Province and Rim Collection had crossed into Erdvynn Province, taking the capital world of Erdvynn and the systems of Yidtall and Calvados. Afterwards, the dezgra pirates had burnt alive the prisoners, government officials, the Collection ambassador, and the technicians manning the Hyper Pulse Generators. For that reason, the Collection and Mandrills had sent nine clusters and the RCS Resolute to recapture the worlds.
He shook his head. Now was not the time to think of past events, he decided, as he once again concentrated on the task at hand. “Communications!†he yelled out. “The pirate warship still sending out HPG pulses, quiaff?â€
“Aff, Star Admiral,†Wendy, the Collection Freeborn Technician manning Comms station confirmed. “Still no luck in breaking their encryption†he nodded to himself, expecting as much, as he watched the enemy warship seemingly flee from the system, albeit leisurely. When the Resolute and the five clusters it was protecting arrived in system, they found the months-missing LCS Bolin, a Lyran Merchant Corvette in system. Now, even with twelve in-bound Titans and Titan Monitors and over a hundred fighters, it still was continuing its leisurely withdrawal.
“The dezgra pirates are indeed planning something,†he mused out loud. Yet, the only thing they could do was to wait for the dezgra to spring their trap. It was slightly unnerving, but it couldn’t be help. “Comms, notify Galaxy Marshall Justine Truscott the dezgra have a trap and advise her to break off her approach to Erdvynn.â€
“Aff!†was the woman’s answer. Minutes later, just as he noted the sometimes temperamental Galaxy Marshall had acquiesce and ordered her DropShips and fighters into a roving pattern in orbit of Erdvynn, the dezgra pirates had sprung their trap.
“Radiation spike!†yelled out Eric, the only other Warrior on the bridge. “Right behind us!†he added.
“When it rains it pours,†Malcolm commented quietly before speaking up authoritatively. “Helm, turn us about portside. Tactical, have our gunners begin sequential fire and order our fighters neutralize any the pirates have.â€
Just as the largest Mandrill WarShip began its portside turn, the IFF program onboard the RCS Resolute finally tagged the unknown pirate warship “IFF confirms! Enemy warship is the WOBS Erinyes, a Newgrange yardship!†Eric yelled out.
“What in the-†Malcolm’s question was cut off.
“The Erinyes just opened fire with its forward weapons. Energy output is off the scale…†Eric yelled out “it can’t be†Malcolm heard him whisper.
“Helm! Break off the turn and full power to engines! Sensors track that incoming and feed to tactical, Tactical station full defensive fire†he snapped Malcolm knew the RCS Resolute’s only chance was to try and shoot down the ordinance that was coming towards them.
He felt the RCS Resolute charge forward.
“It’s an ASTEROID sir†Eric said “we can’t avoid it our momentum is too great.†He confirmed Malcolm ignored his contractions as the information sunk in.
Malcolm closed his eyes, as he accepted the answer. “Can we evade via lifepods?â€
“Aff, barely,†was the Warrior’s answer.
Malcolm opened his eyes and looked over the now-eerily quiet bridge. He could see all were looking at him. He looked at Wendy and Nick, the two Collection Freeborn on the bridge, before turning back to his screen, resolving to save the lives of as many as he could. Tapping it, he initiated ship wide Comms. “All hands abandon ship! I repeat! All hands abandon ship! Right ****** now!†He looked up to see the bewildered bridge crew. “I doubt any of you have a hearing problem.†In seconds, the bridge crew had evacuating the bridge, leaving only Malcolm and Eric.
“I just activated auto-fire on all guns facing the asteroid Star Admiral, anything that cannot hit it is going to bear on the Yardship or whatever the hell that monstrosity is†the younger Warrior reported out. “I’m staying Star Admiral,†he added out.
Malcolm nodded at him. “You are a true Warrior Eric.†The other man nodded and both were quiet for a moment as Malcolm tapped his screen to show a picture. A picture of him standing behind a woman sitting in a chair, his hand on her shoulder. Her name was Andy, a Freeborn Collection woman he had met in the days after the Clan had arrived on All Dawn. Along the Resolute’s hull evacuation pods began to leave the carrier Malcolm looked at Eric. “Tell me Eric. Who do you fight for?â€
“I fight for our Clan and the Collection, Star Admiral,†was his reply before he turned to face Malcolm. “And now I will die for it.†He said watching the screen the Resolute’s fire was not stopping the incoming ordinance and the WarShip’s sensors had just registered a second massive launch from the Erinyes.
Malcolm nodded. It was as good an answer as he would hear from the young Warrior. “A noble answer, Eric I fear mine is a greedy one.†He said Eric glanced at the picture still held in Malcolm’s hand.
“Who is she, Star Admiral,†the younger man asked.
“My wife and unborn daughter,†was Malcolm’s simple answer. Eric was about to ask another question but then both disappeared in a ball of fire, as the asteroid struck midway across the hull of the RCS Resolute causing massive damage. As the ancient WarShip twisted and burned a second asteroid slammed into the vessel’s hull and destroyed the vessel.
For another hour and a half, the remaining Rim Collection forces fought tooth and nail for survival against the Erinyes and the Bolin, intent on holding both pirate warships off while their ground forces desperately made there way back to their JumpShips and began emergency jumps clear of the system. Several of the Rim Collection pilots and escort DropShips would not be leaving the battle as they fought a desperate rearguard to defend the ground forces escaping.
Nexus Ri
Shared World, Border world
Draconis Combine/Raven Alliance
30th September, 3110
On Nexus Ri the trials between the Combine and Ravens continued as the two nations continued to experiment with their new relationship. With the SLDF trialing for, and winning, an enclave on the planet itself adding another element to the world’s make up. Elsewhere on the border the two nations battle over several other worlds. While none of the worlds change hands, with the Ravens keeping control of Kazanka and Suianheer, while the Combine retains Zlatousi and Quantraine both sides see their troops pushed to their limit.
To keep the fighting from escalating into another all out war the Ravens and DCMS maintain brief and discrete monthly communications giving the other a little feedback about the current situation. From both sides there is near continuous complaints from the Ravens at the use of “dishonorable†combat tactics and strategy from the Draconis Combine warriors however neither nation is ready for another all out war and nothing further is made of the complaints.
Further along the Draconis Combine border the Nova Cats take control over the system of Tarnby defeating the DCMS defenders this makes up for the Nova Cats defeat by Clan Sea Fox in a Trial of Possession in Falakuma system where the WarShip Tiglon was heavily damaged by a new Sea Fox WarShip the Mastera, an Isurus-class Missile Destroyer.
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I thank my co-writers and other contributors it wouldn't be the timeline it is without what has been contributed (and what I've begged, borrowed and stole)
A contribution from Vition2 on the Raven border included in this update
Trial of Possession, Burn in
Zortman, Sea Fox Territory
Wolf Empire
2nd October 3110
On the Clan Wolf DropShip Prowler Star Colonel Xera Ward looked at the screen in front of her the Sea Fox warrior on the screen looked furious. “You wished for safcon and it was granted Star Colonel now what is it Clan Wolf wish with Zortman?â€
“Zortman has been a Sea Fox holding for too long†the dark skinned warrior said “the Ninth Wolf Lancers Cluster is here to claim this territory.†She said seeing the shock on the Fox warrior brought a smile “I gather that had I declared my intentions when I entered this system safcon would not have been granted, quiaff?â€
“Aff†the Fox admitted “what forces do you bring to this Trial?â€
“I bid two combined-arms binaries of veteran warriors to this Trial I am ready to transmit their codex data.â€
“I will match your bid Wolf, we will meet in one week at Lustig Pass, I will transmit our codex and location data.†He said in response.
“Seyla†Xera Ward responded
“Seyla†the Sea Fox responded
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On the ground of Zortman Wolf and Sea Fox forces fought each other trading blows as they danced around each other. In the centre of the formation Star Colonel Xera Ward moved her Tomahawk II OmniMech carefully towards her enemy’s forces gutting an enemy Shadow Cat OmniMech with her paired arm mounted HAGs. The rapid fire gauss rifles tore through the forty-five ton OmniMech even as a gauss slug ripped into the Tomahawk’s torso.
She stepped forwards targeting a Stormcrow now engaging with the large lasers only one found its mark burning down the Sea Fox’s left leg. The Sea Fox OmniMech ran around Xera’s OmniMech hitting the Tomahawk II with both of its large lasers burning the assault OmniMech’s armour the fast moving OmniMech quickly switched to its medium lasers burning more armour away unfortunately the heat build up cause two of the mediums to go wide and slowed the Stormcrow’s run. Xera smirked knowing that this was the moment and fired both HAGs and both large lasers only one HAG and one large laser found their marks the gauss slugs ripping down the right side of the Mech peppering the fifty-five ton OmniMech’s leg breaching the armour. Xera was satisfied to see the knee actuator explode as several slugs slammed into the exposed skeleton the Tomahawk’s laser added insult to injury as it burned over the Stormcrow’s torso and struck the underside of the cockpit. Behind the Stormcrow Xera’s other fire tore up the dirt as they missed everything around them the Stormcrow continued to limp faster than the Tomahawk could run but the MechWarrior must have known that his time was coming to an end and began to retreat firing its lasers against the Tomahawk’s armour.
Planting the Tomahawk II’s legs firmly Xera tracked the retreating Stormcrow with her torso twisting to follow the lighter Mech she then triggered one of the HAGs which tore open the back of the Stormcrow moments later the cockpit exploded open and the pilot flew from his falling OmniMech.
Xera turned her assault Mech to see a point of Elementals swarming a Nova OmniMech cutting and burning the Sea Fox Mech’s armour. Off to the side a Sea Fox Solitaire fired on the Elementals burning two of them from the Nova’s form. Xera angrily twister her Tomahawk II onto the Solitaire and fired one of the HAGs along with both medium pulse lasers cutting down the light BattleMech before keying her microphone “Sea Fox commander your troops have broken Zellbrigen, this is now a Wolf trial to win, all Wolf forces forego Zellbrigen and engage targets of opportunity.†She commanded on a general frequency beginning a general melee. Across the battlefield Wolf and Sea Fox units began to coordinate their fire rapidly cutting each other down with the Wolves rapidly gaining the upper hand in the fight.
Royal Marriage, Imperial Palace
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
11th October 3110
At the Imperial Palace on New Samarkand Coordinator Akira Kurita announces his marriage to Julia Kurita. The announcement comes as a complete surprise to the entire Draconis Combine who did know that Akira was involved with anyone leading to the belief that it was an arranged marriage, which was not uncommon in the Draconis Combine. Little is said about Julia Kurita or her past and other than the marriage ceremony she is rarely seen.
Alongside this announcement is news that the DCMS have successfully captured Damevang, Choudrant, Rowe and Tishomingo as they push deeper into the Federated Suns Draconis March. Elsewhere along the border the DCMS fail to capture Hagiwawa from the AFFS showing that the AFFS resolve along that part of the border remains as strong as ever.
Poseidon, Sea Fox-class Arcship
Pirate Point Gamma, Nexus Ri
Shared World, Border World
Draconis Combine/Raven Alliance
13th October 3110
After having transferred around a third of its cargo to Falaknuma, the Poseidon its escorts and members of the Predator Khanate ground forces traveled rimward, arriving over Nexus Ri in the middle of October. “OvKhan Vewas, preliminary scans show that the reports are correct, Nexus Ri has significant deposits of germanium.â€
“Good, this excursion will not be a waste of time†OvKhan Carlos Vewas replied, then he called up Star Colonel’s Sigmund Marsh and Aegal Faulk, “Star Colonels, the Seventh Cruiser and Fifty-eight Combined Strike Cluster are available to fight for our victory on Nexus Ri.†He said looking between them “what are your individual bids?â€
Both Star Colonels engaged in a contest of bidding Star Colonel Sigmund Marsh eventually won the bidding with a very aggressive bid of a single binary consisting of a single BattleMech point, two aerospace points and the remaining a mix of ProtoMechs and battle armor. In reserve another binary of the Fifty-eight Combined Strike Cluster were available to support should it be required.
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“Commander of the Raven Alliance forces on Nexus Ri; I am Star Colonel Sigmund Marsh commander of the Fifty-eight Combined Strike Cluster of Clan Sea Fox. We want access to the resources of this planet and have determined that your Alvarius Enclave is the ideal location. The following forces are bid, with what forces will you receive us?†OvKhan Marsh then transmitted the list of his forces including the codices of the warriors who would be involved. He had done some research on the planet below noting this location as the second largest Raven enclave, and the only enclave located on a small island continent victory would grant the Sea Foxes will have ownership over the entire continent.
About an hour later the Raven reply arrived, “A binary of the Second Raven Garrison Cluster will meet you in the trial area of the Third Canyonlands. You are reminded that this is a shared world should you win your Trial you will have same expectations and rights as the other occupants of Nexus Ri, the Combine, SLDF, and we Ravens.â€
Star Colonel Marsh, eager to receive the higher degree of autonomy quickly confirmed the bidding and stipulations. He then sets his senior Star Commander to the task of preparing for the trial. Continuing to study the terrain that they would battle over it quickly becomes apparent that the trial location would be ideal for ambushes and the terrain rough enough that even BattleMechs would have difficulty navigating the area, not to mention the near uselessness of aerospace assets. He had included a single point of aerospace forces purely to counter those of the Raven Alliance.
The battle itself was played out over three days, with the Ravens having a significant advantage in force composition for the first two days and knowing the terrain somewhat better than the Foxes. In a series of skirmishes they managed to pull off a number of ambushes, slowly bleeding the members of Predator Khanate. However at the end of the second day, the OvKhan Carlos Vewas authorised the use of the Fox reserve forces as the Sea Foxes pull out all the stops to win the enclave adding a star of ProtoMechs into the conflict despite the honour loss it costs the Foxes. This gives the Sea Foxes the mobility they need to capture the enclave.
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As the technicians and labourers transferred equipment to the Alvaris Enclave OvKhan Marsh noted the size of the enclave for the small number of inhabitants’ present and little infrastructure that the Ravens had invested in it. Already members of the Sea Fox scientific caste had assessed a nearby vein of germainium that their engineers could exploit unfortunately it was not as large as he had expected. He had also discovered that calling in reinforcements to the trial had cost the Sea Foxes control over the other islands of the continent as the Ravens saw it as a violation of the trial. The Sea Foxes would contest the Raven decision but it was just the beginning of a long journey.
Elsewhere the border tension between the Draconis Combine and Raven Alliance died down though continues to smolder beneath the surface. The last two trials of the official border world’s occurred with the Combine winning back Valentina and the Ravens recapturing Bad News.
Fourth Battle for Tamarind
Tamarind, Wolf Empire
15th October 3110
Missiles, Lasers and autocannon fire filled the space around Tamarind as WarShips, fighters and DropShips engaged each other. Past the aerospace battle DropShips carrying ground forces attempted to make it through the Wolf blockade around Tamarind.
“Sir, the side of the Therese just exploded there are explosive decompressions on several decks!†The FWLS Sardis sensor operator Joseph Milaki reported to Duke Robert Brett-Marik as the WarShip was hit with naval laser fire.
“Sire, Werewolf is coming around again if its broadside aligns with ours… Sire, this is a fight we cannot win.†Captain Rachel Leacar said attempting to get the Duke’s attention. They had expected the Lola IV-class Destroyer Wolf Hunter and the assault DropShip squadrons what they had not expected was the Werewolf or the other two Lola IV-class Destroyers to enter the system during their burn-in even as they spoke the Arctic Wolf, another Lola IV, passed over the position of the Free Worlds League DropShips unleashing its naval particle cannons and autocannons on the formation wiping out the Tenth Tamarind Militia, a third of their ground forces.
“Have our aerospace fighters engage the Arctic Wolf cover their retreat†Duke Robert Brett-Marik ordered “today is not our day†he said.
“Helm alter our course away from the shipyards, have the Tamarind and Abbey cover our flank defensive fire against the Werewolf. We’ll still take hits but we’ll just have to weather them. Send all SAR crews along with the Juan Carlos to the Therese recover everyone they can then rejoin with us.†Captain Leacar said watching the holotank as the Sardis began to turn to starboard the two accompanying Impavido-class Destroyers moving to the WarShips port side as the Werewolf turned her port side weapons towards the Sardis’ position. Even as the Sardis and her escorts turned away the Werewolf’s particle cannons opened fire two of the weapons hit the Tamarind’s port side while another hit the Abbey. Of the remaining nine weapons four missed completely while another two cored through an Overlord A3-class DropShip while the remaining three tore through the Sardis’ armour.
The massive Thera-class Carrier shook as the particle cannons tore open the ship’s side. Alarms sounded out in the Command Centre. “Hull breaches sections forty-two through forty-five!†The female officer at damage control sounded out “emergency bulkheads have closed no information on casualties.â€
“Continue our turn†Leacar commanded “status of Tamarind and Abbey?â€
“Both have heavy armour and internal damage, Tamarind has lost fire control and there is a report of fire onboard Abbey.â€
“If they need additional assistance we’ll give it to them once we are clear of the battle.â€
“Sir, Arctic Wolf is incoming on our position†another officer called out as the Arctic Wolf approached the Sardis firing its forward autocannons, lasers and particle cannons. The smaller WarShip cut across the hull of the large carrier sustaining several heavy hits as the Sardis’ gunners engaged the vessel. The Arctic Wolf passed over the Sardis and continued heading away from it both vessel’s rear weapons continuing to engage the other vessel as the range between them extended.
“Further damage reports from sections nine, thirty-three and seventy-one further bulkheads secure.â€
“She can take it†Robert Brett-Marik said loudly so the crew could hear the confidence he didn’t feel.
“Arctic Wolf is out of the fight, they’ll get her working again but not in time to engage us, Werewolf is turning to engage again.â€
“Have Tamarind and Abbey maneuver behind our bulk we will shield them.†Leacar ordered watching the display the McKenna-class WarShip was moving to engage them again with its broadside. She looked at Duke Robert who just nodded his agreement watching the screen as the two smaller Impavidos moved to keep the Sardis between them and the Werewolf. As the holotank updated it showed the Tamarind had broken formation and was passing under the Sardis heading directly towards the Werewolf.
“What are they doing? Order them back into position, we have already lost enough today!†Robert commanded but it was too late the Tamarind was already accelerating too much for it to make a difference. The Impavido closed on the Werewolf firing its weapons as it closed however the Werewolf’s armoured hide was too thick for a single attack to threaten it with critical damage. As the Tamarind closed there was a burst of energy from the Werewolf’s broadside as all twelve heavy naval particle cannons fired as one.
On the holotank in front of Duke Robert Brett-Marik and Captain Rachel Leacar watched as the FWLS Tamarind disintegrated under the Werewolf’s assault. Particle Cannon impacts tore into the nose and forward armour burning great gouges in the hull. As the Tamarind’s hull continued forward capital missiles struck the destroyer’s side before a second salvo of particle cannon fire almost literally tore the front of the Impavido from its hull. Robert looked at Rachel and lowered his head “Captain, please recall our fighters and DropShips… and ensure our ground forces have rendezvoux coordinates.†He commanded before leaving thecommand deck the Battle for Tamarind was over.
Mindstar Industries Shipyards, High Orbit Niops VIII
Niops, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
22nd October 3110
High above the world of Niops VIII the newest and possibly most important facility in the District of Lesnovo came online. Standing in the command section Director Linda Roy stood beside Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones “our facilities are fully operation we can begin JumpShip and DropShip production within the week all we await are resources which Niops can initially provide…â€
“And the District will keep this place going†the Duke replied confirming what she hoped would be offered “I hear you have had interest from Private Corporations as well?â€
“That’s correct as Mindstar is a business we have had interest from local mercenary commands and transport companies.â€
“Including some wider ranging multi-nationals?†Duke Raymond asked pointing out he knew where some particular interest had come from.
“Interstellar Expeditions have approached us†she admitted looking him in the eye. If he had been twenty years younger she would have been his type willing to stand up for what she believed in. “Duke Raymond if Mindstar does not accept private commissions we will not stay solvent.†She said looking at the screens displaying the shipyard “I know you are very proud of what has been built here and I know that you authorized work visa for personnel from across the Free Worlds League to assist in making this place operational but unless you want to pay all of my creditors off and all of the wages due by this facility it’s my company and my contracts.â€
“Agreed†Raymond said looking at the screens there was only a single JumpShip slip so far and it would be busy for months with District business. “You may make the deals you need to make however any deal made by agencies based beyond our borders must be cleared by my office.†He said
“I can work with those guidelinesâ€
“I’m glad to hear that Ms Roy, we’ll do great things together.â€
Clan Announcement, City of Pineville
Vega, Altenmarkt Province
Rasalhague Dominion
28th October 3110
After weeks of equipment and personnel being brought into the world of Vega the system was a hive of activity with the Alshian, a Leviathan 2-class Battleship, and two Bergan-class WarShips in the system along with twenty assault DropShips. On the planet’s surface at the newly constructed “Planetary Council†building in the newly constructed city of Pineville on the continent of South Nanturo Ghost Bear Khan Angela Bekker stepped up to address the assembled population. Around the perimeter there were armoured Elementals and BattleMechs standing at attention ready to act if necessary. “Citizens of Vega, and of the Rasalhague Dominion, I am Angela Bekker the Khan of Clan Ghost Bear and leader of the Rasalhague Dominion. I know some of you have questioned what the Dominion will bring to Vega and what benefits our nation will bring you over that of the Draconis Combine.†She said pausing to look across the assembled crowd “the first I would point to is this growing city which when completed will be open to all citizens of Vega and will become the administrative capital of the Vega Province.†She said allowing the news to sink in for a moment “from the worlds of Camlann, Port Moseby, Buckminster and Gram to Yed Posterlor and Vega this new province will bring direct administration and a better allocation of resources.†She said bringing cheers from the assembled crowd “we will defend Vega, rebuild Vega and we will let the people of Vega choose what they want.†She said using the three things she knew that the people of Vega held against the Draconis Combine. They hated that they had not been defended from Lyran raids, they had asked for more resources to rebuild and had not received them and they had not been given a voice that the Coordinator could hear now the Bears would offer them that which was something the crowd went crazy for. Even with the heavy Ghost Bear military presence in the system, something that would never really go away, the people were already seeing a different type of leadership and a new arrange of freedoms they had not experienced under Draconis Combine rule and for the first time in years it felt like Vega mattered again.
-
My thanks to James Tanaga for adding a little more action to the Lyran's periphery border
Davion Wing, Whitting Conference Centre
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
1st November 3110
Victor Steiner-Davion entered the Davion Wing of the Whitting Centre on the eve of the Seventeenth Whitting Conference. In the main meeting room he saw his daughter-in-law Duhess Sterling Davion with her daughter Leah and youngest son Christopher. “Grandfather!†Leah called out seeing him dropping her toy and running across the room at twelve years old she was growing up quickly she wrapped her arms around him as he approached. Her four year old brother Christopher was slower but reached him a moment or two later.
“Sire, it is good to see you†Sterling said rising from one of the white leather couches she wore a simple black knee length skirt with a green lined red jacket her red hair was tied back in a single ponytail.
“Sterling, please you know you do not need to stand on ceremony†Victor said stepping further into the room the two children returning to their toys. “Where is Burton?â€
“Where else does a restless MechWarrior go?†She asked rhetorically knowing that Victor would know the answer. “He said he wouldn’t be long†she said glancing at the door which led to the Mechbay “that was six hours ago.†She said turning back with a smile on her face “he is a Davion son through and through it keeps him happy.â€
“I hear that you too have been returning to what your old habits?†He said
“They die hard†she confirmed “I joined the FSS Sword and Sun on a patrol of the Snow Raven border†she said the Federated Suns Navy had essentially offered her a command of any vessel she wanted with the High Command honouring her previous training and experience with Clan Snow Raven. So far she had turned down their offer instead serving as an observer she had told Burton that until Leah and Christopher were both old enough to cope alone she planned to remain an observer on any of these tours he arranged. “It is a good ship and a good crew. They are eager to teach the Draconis Combine a lesson for their incursions but will wait until commanded.†She said confident in the ship’s resolve.
“I know it must hurt their morale not to strike but the Combine remains part of the League and the Federated Suns drive towards Benjamin has driven a wedge between the nations committing further troops would only spark a greater conflict one that may even draw in the Ravens.â€
“Neg, the Ravens would only fight if provoked and thus far that has not happened.†She pointed out “the Combine continues to escalate the situation while our forces and people suffer.†She said passionately Victor smiled happy to see she had fallen in love with the people of his nation as she had his son.
“There is a time and a place. I hoped that this conference would lead to a peace…â€
“It would have if the Snakes had bothered to show up.†She shot back interrupting him “I apologise, si… Victor, I have over stepped†she said glancing down.
“Neg, you have not†he said answering using her tongue. “You are right the Coordinator sending a Warlord in his place has done more damage than good.†He admitted instead of Coordinator Akira Kurita the Draconis Combine’s Warlord of Dieron Akira Tormark had attended the conference although Tormark had the authority to cast the Combine’s vote it made the chances of peace near impossible and almost completely ruled out the Draconis Combine holding the office of First Lord. “Where is Luther?†He asked glancing down at the two playing children wondering where their eldest was.
“At home studying Sarah is looking after him while we are away†she said naming one of Burton’s siblings. Victor nodded understanding but at the same time concerned that the future leader of the Federated Suns was not here to see what he could face in the future should these conferences last that long.
“I’ll go see my son, I’ll be back up later you two†Victor said the the children who waved him goodbye as Victor headed out the back door and began to head down a spiral staircase towards the lower level below the living quarters was the security level and then below that was a small but well stocked armoury and Mechbay.
Victor saw Burton’s Templar was in the bay he was surprised to hear that his son had taken the OmniMech to a planet where there was nearly zero chance of combat occurring but Burton had explained that it played to the image he was a Warrior Prince like Davion Leaders of old. It had struck him when he read his son’s response that Burton was far more media savvy than he ever had been.
Reaching the eighty-five ton Templar III’s foot however Victor’s attention was drawn to the OmniMech standing beside it. The Templar III was an impressive slick design, an evolution of an OmniMech that had dominated the ranks of the AFFS for decades, but the OmniMech that stood beside it was in a class of its own. One hundred tons of engine, armour, equipment and weapons it was the panicle of BattleMech technology one of the ultimate killing machines ever built by humanity. “Prometheus…†he whispered looking at the Dire Wolf still painted in the colours of the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT.
“Beautiful isn’t she?†His son asked appearing beside him Burton wore a full body coolant suit, a far more advanced system than Victor ever had in his day.
“She’s functional and capable†Victor said looking at the details of the OmniMech “I haven’t seen her for many years.†He said looking up at the OmniMech “why did you bring it?â€
“Old habits†he said looking at his father smiling. “Also I hear that the SLDF have some impressive training facilities nearby, I though we could maybe take a run at it?â€
“Your mother will kill me†Victor admitted looking at the OmniMech.
“If I am not mistaken mother is in Paris which is half a world away from us…â€
“Very trueâ€
--------------
Nearly an hour later the Templar III and Dire Wolf stood on the battlefield facing off against several automated targets. “Let’s dance†Burton broadcast in the open the Templar III danced to the right engaging a long range missile turret while the Dire Wolf went left engaging a turret with heavy autocannons. As each of the two OmniMechs moved their simulated fire registered as damage to their targets shutting them down while the turrets fired paint rounds at their targets which registered as real damage. It wasn’t as spectacular as real fighting but it was more cost effective and didn’t result in accidental deaths of MechWarriors.
Victor moved quickly from one target to the next his Dire Wolf taking damage as he moved but the OmniMech was easily capable of taking the hits and dealing with these targets. As he moved he keyed his microphone to Burton’s frequency “not much of a challenge†he noted as a group of lasers engaged resulting in simulated burn damage.
“It’s not supposed to be†Burton replied obliterating a target of his own “but the Tri-Vid cameras will love seeing Prometheus in action once more.â€
“Still playing games†Victor remarked as an autocannon barrage registered a hit on his OmniMech striking above the cockpit. Victor’s pace ground to a halt as he listened to his son’s reply.
“Old habits, die hard, dad everyone loves seeing their heroes in action even against training targets.†Burton explained cutting down another target “and its something very special seeing you at her controls again.†He said watching as Victor split targets taking down two more turrets from his standing position.
“I always thought you’d take over her controls.â€
“Prometheus is and always will be your Mech, and a little too slow for my taste, you have to be able to move around your opponent Instead of just taking hits.†He said destroying another target but seeing his father’s OmniMech remained standing still he sent a command to the turrets to stand down before circling back to join his father. “Perhaps I’ll gift it to Luther when he’s ready.†“Sterling said he was studying?â€
“Aff, I mean yes†Burton said stumbling over the response being married to a Clanswoman led to mixed up responses sometimes. “I’m convinced he’ll be the smartest Davion for decades. And he’ll be a fine MechWarrior when the time comes.†Burton explained Victor nodded not completely convinced that his grandson was as decided about his future as Burton was. It was tradition for First Princes of the future to be members of the AFFS but that did not necessarily mean being a MechWarrior.
“Shall we go back?†Victor asked glancing at the damage schematic for his OmniMech the simulated damage remaining with the gash above its cockpit standing out to the elder Davion. Had it been a real hit the cockpit would have likely been breached by the damage, a breach that could have killed him.
“Not tempted to get back in the saddle full time?†Burton teased as the two Mechs began to walk back towards the Mechbay.
“No it’s a habit I was happy to turn my back on it’s a younger man’s game and one I am glad to see that you play well.†He said looking over his son’s statistics from the “battle†high hit percentages and low damage he was impressed but his eyes were brought back to the simulated damage again he had many close calls in the past why it bothered him to see a simulated hit like it did he didn’t know.
Main Meeting Hall, Whitting Conference Centre
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
3rd November 3110
Victor Steiner-Davion remembered that Whitting Conferences were shorter as he sat behind his Burton and Sterling with his wife Danai Centrella-Davion they were the oldest two people in the room by a margin. In the early days the conferences had been simple the lords had discussed the SLDF’s capabilities, its funding and the ever present Clan threat and then they had voted for a new First Lord. Now however with the growing size and economic strength of the Star League Protectorate trade was just as strong a factor with trade going through the Protectorate from different nations to avoid conflict zones which made the Protectorate worlds more prosperous each day. Many within the conference hall wished to see the trade tariffs reduced and instead more money sent to the member states.
Victor paid little attention to their bickering as he looked around the hall he had been surprised to see Archon Jessica Steiner her embattled Lyran Commonwealth was still under heavy threat from the Clans with reports of renewed fighting along their borders. She was his niece but they barely knew each other their families long separated since Peter’s assumption of the Archonship it bothered him that he did not know his brother’s children better.
Sitting next around the table was Warlord Akira Tormark the representative of the Coordinator Akira Kurita. Tormark was older than his son and tried to look confident but he was out of place and knew his plans were tied. Earlier in the day Burton had offered to end the conflict with the Combine and return the systems of Hagiwawa, Umijiri and Kitalpha in the exchange. The deal was more than Victor would have been ready to return but Akira Tormark was not in the position to agree to the deal and so it had fallen through.
At the next table sat Duke Bannister Cameron the leader of the Star League Protectorate and the next most likely person to become First Lord. The former Star League Defence Force General was aging well but Victor could see that the stress of leadership was getting to him as was the bickering between leaders. His attention was brought to his left as Protector Erik Martens-Calderon said something towards Burton and McKenna immediately he moved to stand but Danai’s hand ended up on his arm bringing him back down into his seat he looked at her “old habits†he whispered but Danai was already indicating towards their son who was already acting. Burton activated several commands on the keypad which was built into the desk which activated the hall’s main projector screen. Suddenly several red dots appeared displaying the positions of AFFS ground force units and then several more green dots displayed mercenary commands. Victor had no idea if they were completely accurate but it made of an impressive display especially when the blue dots representing AFFS WarShips appeared peppering the Federated Suns/Taurian Concordat border. Finally Burton activated another command which displayed a smaller number of yellow dots inside Taurian borders.
“Simple mathematics I have more forces I can deploy would you like to test my resolve?†The First Prince of the Federated Suns asked beside the Taurian leader the Capellan Confederation ambassador began to laugh. Although not members of the Star League Council still being a prominent family in the Inner Sphere the Liao family ambassador was regularly invited but rarely attended the votes.
“And still the Davion family attempts to boss these meetings around there is a reason that House Liao stands apart from this council†Ambassador Ming Liao taunted looking around the other members of the council.
“At least we still benefit from the advantages of membership†Magestix Ilsa Centrella of the Magistracy of Canopus said taunting the Succession State. Victor shook his head this was not the best way to do business instead it was a good way to go around in circles.
--------------
As the Star League member states exchanged insults and fought for dominance in the Whitting Conference Hall across the stars a different type of fight had broken out. During the night as the Star League met the Jade Falcon WarShips Jade Arrow and Emerald Talon supported by several assault DropShips and nearly a full galaxy of ground forces had jumped into the Donegal system obliterating the LCS Morgan Kell and crippling the LCS Flygia within days Jade Falcon troops would march on the Provincial Capital.
First Lord’s office, Unity Palace
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
4th November 3110
A week before this had been Victor Steiner-Davion’s office while he served as First Lord of the Star League in the position of his son now it was the office of the newest First Lord, Bannister Cameron, as Victor walked into the office he saw that Bannister waited for him behind the desk. “I love what you’ve done with the place†Victor joked the office was no different than when he had used it a large round room with one wall completely dominated by large windows.
“I see you didn’t waste anytime either†Bannister said rising from behind the desk unlike the business suit Victor had wore while serving as First Lord he now wore the uniform of a Field Marshal of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.
“It’s a little tighter than I remember†Victor admitted touching the waistband of the trousers “it’s all for show while I am here on Terra Burton is convinced that it will show our people that I haven’t gone native.†He explained again Burton had impressed him showing a near complete understanding of what was going on at home and what needed to be done to keep the masses happy. “Congratulations on your nomination†he said half seriously continuing to one of the white leather sofas sitting down while Bannister sat opposite him.
“Perhaps the easiest decision that the council ever made†Bannister admitted each of the states could technically be nominated but with the Federated Suns previously holding the positon, the Draconis Combine leader failing to attend, the Free Worlds League leader looking out of his depth and the Lyrans distracted there was little chance of the other main states gaining the position. Although both member states of the Star League neither the Taurian Concordat nor the Magistracy of Canopus had any realistic chances of gaining the leadership position with their well known history with the first Star League. “Do you think my speech made any headway?â€
“About the uncontrolled arms race that is going on and the steady fall towards a conflict as large as any of the Succession Wars?†Victor asked Bannister nodded it was all he could think to speak of following the failure of the council to stop the ongoing conflicts. “Perhaps but I think the news of the fighting on the Lyran border had everyone more concerned.†He said news that Donegal had been attacked had reached the Council chambers shortly after Bannister had been nominated as the next First Lord. Archon Jessica Steiner had left nearly immediately heading for a DropShip which immediately boosted off planet heading for a waiting JumpShip. Under the rules of the current Star League no member state WarShip was allowed to leave the Nadir and Zenith jump points instead SLDF JumpShips situated at pirate points waited to take leaders via command circuit back to their own states.
“Yes, Archon Steiner will arrive in the Commonwealth to a fight her people cannot win†Bannister Cameron said looking at Victor his face a mask “Shortly Donegal will be under siege and Pherkad has already fallen to the Falcons. Grunwald and Kelenfold have fallen to the Horses and there are reports that the Coyotes have attacked Morningside.†He said reaching out to touch a control on the table that displayed all three Clans had moved forward against the Lyrans.
“A combined offensive†Victor said looking at the map “anything from the Bears?â€
“No neither the Bears nor the Wolves have made any move forwards it appears that they are ready to sit and wait.†Bannister said looking up at Victor “this conflict is the one the Star League was formed to combat I won’t let the Lyrans hang alone.†He said switching the display to one of the Star League Protectorate which sat in the middle between the five Succession States and Clan Wolf’s Empire. “I’ve sent orders to the Warlock, Wasp, Cavalier and Vanguard along with the Thirty-first Royal BattleMech Brigade, the First Royal Regimental Brigade and the Second Knights of the Inner Sphere Brigade.†He explained “we are going to reinforce Lyran positions and force the Falcons off Donegal and support the defences against the Falcons and Coyotes.â€
“Cavalier and Vanguard?†Victor said naming two of the Obey-class Battleships based in the Fenwick system both were untested in battle. While First Lord Victor had learned of the Fenwick and the ships based there he had agreed with Bannister Cameron and Victor Focht to keep the system a secret to protect the population now deploying both ships before they had undergone any of the proposed modifications would bring questions that the SLDF was probably not ready to answer.
“We need to make a statement†Bannister explained “I’m sending Victor Focht to oversee and command them he can liaise with the Lyran commanders.â€
“Victor is a good commander but he hasn’t faced the pressures that he will face on Donegal before.†He said Victor Focht was an excellent administrator and strategist but his tactical thinking sometimes could be better. He had also never negotiated with the Clans before.
“Well I don’t think they would react well to a First Lord by the name of Cameron turning up.†Bannister pointed out Victor nodded Bannister Cameron turning up on the border was probably the last thing that the Lyrans needed. “Want the job?â€
“Not really†Victor admitted “I retired for a reason.†He said thinking about Danai and her thoughts of him even considering going on a mission like this.
“You retired far younger than most men would have, I saw your range scores with Burton still at the level you were previously at†Bannister pointed out “with modern medicine you could live another fifty years easily.†He said one thing that had rapidly returned to the most advanced parts of the Inner Sphere was the benefits brought on by modern medicine and medical technology with the inclusion of Clan technologies, which had been reverse engineered to work with Inner Sphere technology, lifespans had increased to between one hundred-and-twenty and one hundred-and-thirty years.
“Do you know I have lived longer than my father did?†Victor asked looking at Bannister “with all of the fighting that he did and all the stresses he faced he died in his office at sixty-nine years old he died before he saw his children fully grow up when they could have used his support.†He said Victor had inherited leadership of the Federated Commonwealth after the death of his father and the murder of his mother had they been around the nation that their marriage built could have survived.
“That may have been true. At the same time perhaps the Commonwealth was simply too big and too diverse to last, the same happened with the First Star League.†Bannister noted “from what I read about Hanse Davion I don’t think your father was a man to dwell on what could have been.†Bannister said carefully realizing it was a touchy subject for Victor “I don’t think you are that kind of man either.â€
“It would surprise you.†Victor admitted “one thing that would make an impact on the Clans was if the Lyrans were supported by a multi-national force.†He suggested “if we could convince the member states to support the SLDF it would send a message.â€
“The Star League Defence Force will follow Victor Focht but, I do not know if the member states would, this has not been tested for many years.â€
“I will command them†Victor said after a moments thought glancing up at Bannister “I have done it before I can do it again.†He said “I will speak with my son and have the Black Prince detached from his escort, we can try to convince Warlord Tormark to detach a destroyer or two from Dieron’s defence.†He suggested
“Destroyers are about all you’d receive since I don’t think Tormark will want to risk the Akagi.†Bannister Cameron agreed “I can speak with Captain-General Ledford and see what the Free Worlds League can add to this force but I wouldn’t expect anything from the periphery states.â€
“By the time they arrived it would all be over.â€
“I wouldn’t hold my breath about gaining anything from House Liao.â€
“Perhaps a knife in the back†Victor half joked rising from his chair opposite him Bannister also rose extending his hand to shake Victor’s.
“You do not need to do this†Bannister said as they shook hands.
“I owe it to my father and to Peter to try.†He admitted having thought about it he wouldn’t forgive himself if something happened to the Lyran people or Jessica that he could have stopped. He thought about what Bannister had said about his father Hanse Davion did not live with what could have been he went out to fix it. “Now I have to try and explain this to my wife.â€
-------------------
“You agreed to what?†Danai Centrella-Davion said angrily stepping towards her husband off to the side Burton and Sterling stood in a stunned silence.
“I agreed to help…†Victor repeated
“You owe them nothing†Danai said stepping closer to him she was as beautiful as ever and probably as angry as he had ever seen her. “You are not the First Lord anymore, you’re not the Archon-Prince!†She almost shouted turning her back on him hiding her tears.
“Dad, this isn’t your fight†Burton said but Victor hadn’t taken his eyes off Danai’s back. “Your place is at home, we have our own problems.â€
“Son, I helped form this Star League, I took the fight to the Clans before I know better than anyone how they think. Victor Focht for all his experience doesn’t know how they think I can bring the Falcons to heel.â€
“Sire… Victor, the Falcons are not the Falcons you once fought†Sterling Davion reminded him her experience as Snow Raven Khan had taught her that the Clans were changing; and perhaps not for he better.
“I know the risks†he said looking at his son “which is why I’m borrowing the Black Prince.â€
“The Fox’s Teeth are also on-board; they were supposed to be training with the SLDF I guess that can wait and some live fire training is in their future.â€
“They are most welcome to join up†Victor said as Danai turned “I hope our strength shows the Falcons this isn’t a fight they can win and their fighting skills are not needed†he said looking at his wife. “Danai…â€
“No, it’s my turn†said cutting him off “I’m not happy with this decision, this was stupid of you, you retired†she said rapidly taking a step towards him. “But this kind of impulsive decision is why I fell in love with you†she said stepping again towards him “I’m coming with you, we’re doing this together.†She said as Victor pulled her close to him it wasn’t part of his plan but she had been at his side during the Clan War and had given him a family he was very proud of he wouldn’t turn her away now they were in this together.
Royal Visit
Milnerton, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
12th November 3110
With rumours circulating about the whereabouts of the Capellan Confederation’s secret shipyard Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao took the time to visit Milnerton on the FWL border with three elite regiments of troops and the WarShips Chancellor’s Pride and two Wudang Jian-class Frigates leading many to believe that the visit was a prelude to a new Capellan offensive into the Free Worlds League.
Erinyes (Modified Newgrange-class)
Orbit of Son Hoa
Son Hoa Theater, Lyran Commonwealth
18th November, 3110
An old man looked out across the dark space onto the fires below, idly spotting wrecking of the former LCS Storm Watch float by. The planet’s surface glowed red hot as magma erupted from its broken skin. A day ago, the planet was a vibrant, fertile world, housing a population of over three billion souls.
Now, a day apart, only ashes and uncontrollable fires remained as a declaration of war it was quite a statement.
“It is as your Messiah had foretold. ‘A future of nought but fire and ash.’†The much younger woman standing next to him remarked, a sadistic smile creeping on her middle-aged, yet beautiful face.
Her response elicited a rare smile from him in return. Though she remained a sceptic even after all these years of his righteous cause and in the Word of Blake, he long ago acknowledged she was a firm believer in him. And though he valued fanaticism far more than firm loyalty in his fellow believers, he had long ago accepted loyalty was sometimes more useful.
“The long-simmering fire within our fellow believers and our Circinian brothers and sisters will be once again lit this day,†he replied out loud.
“And today will be a day long-remembered, my love,†she responded back as she pulled an arm around his waist, an action he seldom allowed in public, yet today he instead returned. “Let us watch the fire below for a while yet, beloved.â€
He answered her request by resting his head upon her shoulder. They both stood there, gently floating in microgravity, with their arms around each other, as the planet below continue to its fiery death.
Across the entire Inner Sphere, the holovideo of Son Hoa under continuous orbital bombardment, warning the Lyrans to leave Circinus space or else.
In Lyran space, elements of both the Third and Sixteenth Lyran Regulars act out against the Circinus worlds they are garrisoning forcibly putting down peaceful protests resulting in dozens of deaths, forcing the Circinus Son Hoa Theater March Militia RCT into action as the militia quickly moves to protect the civilians, effectively initiating a civil war throughout the Son Hoa Theater with pirate forces supporting the local militia forces they force the regular Lyran military and hired mercenaries from their garrisons.
In the next week, Lyran forces manage to hold the worlds of Andiron and Baltazar III, while the worlds of Circinus, Clayborne II, and Dierdre’s Den are overrun by the militia and pirate forces and a new Cirincus Federation is declared.
FSS Black Prince (Mercury-class Battleship)
Nadir Point, Furillo
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
24th November 3110
Having used one of the “ready JumpShips†in the Terra system Victor Steiner-Davion had finally rendezvoused with the FSS Black Prince, the FSS Lucian Davion II and the FSS Adam Davion in the Furillo system. On board the ships was McKinnon’s Regiment (Fox’s Teeth), a special detachment of the DMI and the Wild Geese mercenary regiment.
Entering the Black Prince’s main briefing room he saw Admiral Kristos Leroux, the commander of the Black Prince, and Colonel Canin McKinnon, the commander of the Fox’s Teeth. Immediately Victor recoignized Canin McKinnon, the son of Ross McKinnon, “it has been many years Colonelâ€
“Too many, sire†McKinnon replied bowing his head slightly Victor nodded he reminded Victor of his father in his prime compact, muscled and with a very serious look. From Canin he turned to the commander of the Black Prince. Admiral Kristos Leroux was unique in the upper echelon of the FSN in that he had not been born in the Federated Suns instead Leroux had been born a member of Clan Nova Cat and captured in battle several years before. As with many former Clansmen Leroux had adopted their new state as their own and he had excelled in WarShip command and combat showing loyalty to the Davion family that verged on fanatical rising through the ranks at a pace that few others could match. Before Victor had left to become First Lord he had been serving as executive officer of the Black Prince.
“Admiral, what’s our status?â€
“We have begun to recharge our drives, sire; it will take us another twenty-one days before we are ready to jump again.†He said giving details on the Black Prince “Commanding-General Focht and elements of the First Royal Regimental Brigade have arrived in the Tharkad system while the SLS Wasp, the Cavalier and Vanguard along with two Tatsumaki II-class Destroyers and ground force elements including the Ninth Illician Lancers and the 241st Battle Combat Group are in the Canonbie system.â€
“Admiral have our communications team send a message to Focht he needs to know that we are joining him and that we should attack together. What about on Donegal?†Victor asked taking a seat at the table beside him Danai took her seat with Leroux sitting opposite them and Colonel McKinnon remaining at the briefing screen.
“Sire, at 0842 this morning Clan Jade Falcon hit the Second Royal Guards RCT on Donegal with six clusters.†McKinnon explained as the screen showed a graphic of Jade Falcon icons landing on Donegal. “Lyran Intelligence has identified two of these units the Jade Falcon Guards and the Delta Solahma Clusters.†He said the Jade Falcon Guards were famous, or infamous, while the Solahma would be used as a sacrifice to weaken the Falcon’s target. “The other appear to be Eyrie Clusters but none have been seen in combat with Inner Sphere forces…â€
“That crazy bitch!†Victor suddenly exclaimed bringing a surprised look from everyone around “Jana Pryde, she’s done a Marthe Pryde†he said looking around “she’s graduated their trainee warriors early and sent them to Donegal to become warriors.â€
“Unproven warriors given such a task of seizing Donegal?†Leroux questioned his face showing disgust for the strategy.
“It’s almost like they don’t want to claim it†Danai Centrella-Davion said quietly
“Or they are after another target†Victor suggested
“There is no other movement along the Falcon lines†McKinnon reported
“Maybe she he no intention on capturing Donegal†Victor said quietly “maybe this is just Coventry a big public attack intended on taking attention away from a weak Falcon Touman?†He said thinking out aloud. “Colonel, continue please†he said looking at McKinnon.
“Yes, sire, it appears that the attack on the Second Royal Guards was intended on inflicting as much damage as possible to the RCT. The Falcon BattleMechs carried inferno rounds for their short range missile launchers and almost exclusively cluster rounds for their autocannons when they handed they concentrated on the House Steiner armoured vehicles, infantry and battle armour forces. Fortunately for the Lyrans several of their units were outfitted with vehicle fire extinguishers which reduced the damage done by the fire†he said as the display screen showed a demonstration vehicle firing its fire extinguishers when struck by fire the vehicle was still damaged but survived the attack. “Unfortunately their infantry was not as fortunate.†He said neither McKinnon nor the displays needed to show the effect inferno explosions would have had on the conventional and battle armoured infantry. “The Royal Guards were able to destroy approximately two clusters worth of forces of the Falcons but have been severely weakened…â€
“What a waste of resources…†Leroux noted looking at the data they had on what had happened on Donegal so far. “I apologise Lord Davion†he said “I did not mean to interrupt.â€
“Nonsense, Admiral, you background was a contributing factor to you gaining this post†he said Kristos Leroux looked at him with a strange look. “You had the skills and temperament to command a WarShip of the Federated Suns Navy but your unique heritage only added to the argument that allowed you to gain the command of this vessel. Admiral Leroux your opinion is always welcome especially on Clan matters.â€
“I understand†he said “these warriors represented the next generation of Jade Falcons to throw them into combat without completing their training or their final trials is a waste it is exactly what the Clans strive to avoid.â€
“Yet history repeats itself they did this at Coventry and now here†Danai said “you’re not the only one reviving old habits.†She said turning to her husband.
-------------------
Across the light years on Incukalns Khan Jana Pryde read the report from Donegal and beyond. “Two clusters essentially lost in battle both Jade Arrow and Emerald Talon are damaged and the Flygia escaped?†She said looking at Loremaster Taman Malthus
“Aff, Khan Pryde, the ship's crew was able to force off our boarding teams and jump to Coventry. We believe Flygia will be crippled for years to come.â€â€
“Do you think they have a chance?†She said indicating back to the troops on Donegal.
“Our forces can overwhelm the defences on Donegal†the Loremaster said “and if they fail our WarShips can sterilize he surface†he said smiling she wasn’t completely convinced that he was not serious.
“That will not accomplish the goals we need to accomplish†Pryde said “Donegal needs to serve a purpose, and not be wasteful to our Clan. Is our next stage ready?â€
“They await you Khan Prydeâ€
Military Raid
Allied States of John Marik, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
28th November 3110
Piloting a succession wars era CRB-27 Crab BattleMech which the Twin Sons military had taken from a pirate, refurbished and put back into service Force Commander Petra Furey watched as members of her infantry team, including an entire squad of Elemental bred troopers, entered a military complex of Marshal Pietre Contractor the local commander of the Allied States of John Marik on Twin Sons.
For the last three weeks members of the southern militia under the command of Contractor had raided the Badlands destroying facilities and killing dozens. According to the Allied States it was due to a rise in bandit raids from the Badlands but they refused to allow the Badlands own security forces deal with it. Despite her commanders knowing that Petra had recently fallen in with the hard core dark caste members on Twin Sons they had decided to support her call to arrest Contractor and return him to the Badlands to face justice.
This operation one of nearly a dozen over the last two months had cornered Contractor into a small naval base overlooking the Scabbard Sea, which on any other planet would have been a large lake, there Contractor had planned to board a large freighter which would take him away from his troubles but Petra Furey had struck sooner than expected. Now sitting in her BattleMech Petra found the situation laughable the leader of this military region preparing to run away like a pirate while her Badlands force (which had been called the same) stood ready to deliver justice. Their operation had gone off almost completely without a hitch with her commando team disabling Contractor’s ship before their main assault she had offered them a chance to surrender but they had refused and now, well now most of the base’s defenders were dead or in chains.
One of her cockpit lights began to flash rapidly and she flicked the switch “Furey†she said
“Boss, you need to get down here and have a look at this, you won’t believe what Contractor had hiding here.†Alex one of her Elementals said over the comms. Alex like her other infantry lacked a Battle Armour suit but he made up for that with his brawn born a freeborn son of two former-Smoke Jaguar trueborn Elementals he was easily as large any trueborn.
A little while later Petra had dismounted from her BattleMech and was inside one of the warehouses standing at Alex’s find “in Kerensky’s name†she said low enough for only Alex and his squad to hear. In front of her stood the pieces of a Stormcrow OmniMech the popular Clan Smoke Jaguar medium design lacked arms and one of the legs but on the ground around it laid the parts that would be enough to rebuild the OmniMech. “Where the hell did he get one of these and why is it in pieces?â€
“Seems like they salvaged the body and then bought the other parts on the black market and have rebuilt her piece by piece.†Alex said “the parts seem to be from different designs but they do seem to go together and I think that the OmniMech can be rebuilt and be operational again.†He said leaning in towards Petra “to the victor goes the spoils Force Commander.â€
“If only it worked out like that†Petra said looking at the OmniMech
“Perhaps it should OvKhan†Alex said. Hours later they had pulled back into the Badlands the Allied States of John Marik issued an official protest with the Badlands rulers but Contractor still felt charges with an overwhelming amount of evidence against him. The Stormcrow was moved to a secure facility in Port Arthur while the techs there tried to rebuild the OmniMech.
Ciudad del Mar, Buena
Alarion Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
30th November, 3110
Kathy Parks rubbed her old eyes as she reviewed the latest military reports in the Son Hoa Theater. At seventy-eight years old, she was far past her prime and had finally retired shortly after the Stone Spirit Incursion had ended nearly four years ago.
She groaned as she felt the arthritis in her left hand act up again, softly reminding her she had done her duty, done it well, and had downright earned her retirement. Yet, she forced herself to continue reading the report as she made notes.
The days following the attack on Son Hoa by the Erinyes was a nightmare for the entire Lyran Commonwealth to say the least. In the first twenty-four hours after the attack alone, the Estates General used its Emergency Powers TWICE, something she never thought possible. The first was to remove Henrietta Bradford as the Lyran Intelligence Corps Director and the second was the removal of the entire Son Hoa Theater out from under Jessica Steiner’s direct control. Though it was officially only a temporary measure until the Clans in the North were beaten back, the Estates General message was crystal clear.
Donegal was the proverbial line in the sand. Should the planet fall, the Archon would soon thereafter.
Kathy knew Jessica wouldn’t take the Estates General threat lying down. A mere two hours after the Estates General’s decision was announced, Kathy was escorted to the planetary HPG station here on Buena. There, via HPG holo-conference, Jessica informed her she had selected Kathy to become Archonette of the Son Hoa Theatre for the duration.
To say she was shocked was an understatement. But she well-understood what Jessica was doing. With the Estates General seemingly united in a stand against the Archon, instead of fighting the assembly, the Archon had not only acquiesced, but pulled a fast one on the assembly. By nominating Kathy, a well-known recently retired military official, to the post before the Estates General was done squabbling over their own pick, the public saw the Estates General and the Archon were seemingly working together rather than at odds with one another.
She shook her head as she made another note, this time on known logistics within the theatre. What the Archon wanted, however, was a follower in power. And that Kathy was against. She would support the Archon, surely, but not follow her every command. And as an archonette, she held near autonomous power, eerily similar to that of the Isle of Skye.
She smiled as she remembered the response from the Estates General rebuking the Duke of Skye’s moving to become an Archonette in his own right, reprimanding him for “his obvious power play in the face of national calamity.†Served him right, she thought, as she flipped to another page, this one noting specific troop locations.
She had acted quickly in the first forty-eight hours, knowing full well the first seventy-two hours was when the public and thus the Estates General would act in full support of her, requested an additional nine planets be added to the theatre, while New India be formally detached to join Kaumberg Theatre. The same request included four warships with three cruisers minimum to be allocated to the theatre.
She got the planets and the Estates General had promised the warships. She knew she needed the latter now, especially due to losing contact with the worlds of Amel, Belzagor, Cyteen, and New St. Andrews in the past two days.
She again shook her head, idly making a note to redistribute the military forces now under her command, as well as recognizing the Buena Training Battalion as a federal one. Politics would have no place within the theatre's military apparatus, she had promised to the public upon accepting the Archon’s nomination of her as Archonette.
Jessica was not happy at her at the moment for both moves. But with those moves, she made it clear to all political sides. Kathy was not anyone’s pawn. She was a loyal supporter of both the Lyran realm and the current Archon and she counted the Archon as a personal friend. But she would do what she thought was right. For the theatre and for the realm.
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Combat Information Centre, FSS Silver Lance
Zenith Point, June
Crucis March, Federated Suns
7th December 3110
The FSS Silver Lance emerged into the June system in a flash of light continuing its patrol, with the McKinnon’s Raiders Regiment in the Lyran Commonwealth, the Robinson Block III-class Transport ship had been assigned to patrol the Nova Cat border and the Federated Suns periphery region. As they energed into the system they detected a cluster of wreckage close by.
“Report†Captain Margaret Joan demanded from her command chair “prepare all small craft and DropShips for recovery options, I want communication with June Planetary Command as well.â€
“Analysing†the sensor operator then added after a moment “Captain, it’s the FSS Crucis March… debris suggests that its DropShips and aerospace fighters have also been destroyed.â€
“Survivors?â€
“Unknownâ€
“Not good enough, Mr Smith, move us within one hundred metres of the largest piece of wreckage, detach DropShips and begin recovery options. Sensors, I want a detailed analysis of what caused this and reverse the path of the remaining wreckage and identify if anything out there is not consistant with what the Crucis March had onboard.†She commanded looking at the screens as the Silver Lance’s transit drive was brought online and the ship began to move away from June’s star she felt a small sense of gravity in the CIC but remained in her chair.
Deep within the Silver Lance DropShips, small craft and aerospace fighters began to launch dropping into space to begin search and rescue operations. The pilots would search the wreckage for their comrades and for a clue to what happened to the ship. Had it been a terrible accident or had someone deliberately destroyed the FSS Crucis March?
Search and rescue operations recovered sixteen survivors from the Cruis March’s wreckage and two aerospace fighter pilots. Over the course of a week long investigation the Silver Lance found that four of the Crucis March’s aerospace fighters were missing as was a civilian Mule-class DropShip which had been awaiting a JumpShip. According to salvaged gun camera footage and sensor records the FSS Crucis March had been attacked by another WarShip one that was approximately 700,000 tons in weight and carried Clan Snow Raven’s insignia, the Sceptre. Also according to the the Davion III’s surviving sensor records the destroyer had caused some damage to the larger Snow Raven-built vessel but it still appeared to be fully operational and had taken salvage and supplies from the Crucis March’s cargo bay and ammunition stores.
Kittery Royal Training Range
Kittery, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate World
12th December 3110
At the Star League Defence Force’s extensive training facilities on Kittery the Fourth Kittery Regimental Brigade, Stone’s Pride, began to test a modified version of the Star League-era Centurion Weapon System which they have named the Tight Steam Electo Magnetic Pulse Weapon, or TSEMP for short. While the Centurion targeted specific circuits within certain BattleMechs limiting its usability the TSEMP could be used against any BattleMech and cause the same affect shutting it down. Unfortunately, of the four prototypes available on Kittery three exploded during their initial testing phase leading to calls for a redesign from concerned SLDF officers adding to research and development’s problems the fourth weapon preformed below its expected capabilities.
Briefing Room, FSDS Davion’s Heart (Conquistador-class DropShip)
Pirate Point, Donegal
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
16th December 3110
Twenty-one days in the Furillo had seemed like an eternity but once the jump drives on the three WarShips had been primed they were ready to jump directly to Donegal with Victor commanding that they avoid wasting more time with a visit to Tharkad. Unlike many systems Donegal had been extensively mapped and so they could enter the system at any of the pirate points closer to the planet’s surface. At 0600 the FSS Black Prince, FSS Lucian Davion II and FSS Adam Davion entered the system deploying their DropShips an hour after the arrival of the WarShips the JumpShips carrying the First Royal Regimental Brigade’s DropShips along with Commanding-General Victor Focht entered the system. Under acceleration Prince Victor Steiner-Davion walked into the briefing room of his Conquistador-class DropShip and saw Colonel Canin McKinnon standing at the display “what’s the status in system Colonel?â€
“It’s very strange sir the Lyrans have been able to contain the Jade Falcons with their numbers reduced to two active Clusters but it was at a great cost.†He said showing the display the Fifteenth Lyran Guards RCT had been virtually destroyed its numbers folded into the Second Royal Guards RCT to keep the unit operational. “It appears we may have come all this way for nothing.â€
“There’s still the two WarShips†Victor point out not that he wanted to take his ground forces against them.
“What was the point to this attack? They come here kill hundreds of troops and lose as many of their own but they don’t reinforce their position.†McKinnon asked looking at the screens it didn’t make sense.
“Blooding new troops eliminating the old blood?†Victor said thinking of the Falcon tactics when they attacked Coventry which was similar to this current strategy. “Old habits†he muttered thinking back to that conflict the fighting for Coventry could have gone so wrong “It’s a brutal tactic even for the Falcons…†he said as the display updated it showed several DropShips leaving Donegal’s surface. “Now what?†Victor wondered watching as the DropShips boosted to join the nearby Falcon WarShips. The door to the briefing room opened again showing a young Leftenant who handed Colonel McKinnon a piece of paper.
“Oh my god…†McKinnon said looking at the Prince “sire, the Falcons have entered the Odessa system.â€
---------------
“I am Khan Jana Pryde of Clan Jade Falcon, I claim Odessa and Gabriel for Clan Jade Falcon.†Jana Pryde said from the command deck of the Mississippi-class Turkina’s Might as the Battleships weapons tore into the the LCS Typhoon from the otherside of the Typhoon the Patriot-class Ironhold Remembered also attacked the Battle-cruiser. “All ground forces head to the planet. Space assault forces head for the Ruins and seize the facility along with the ships there.†She commanded broadcasting the message to the two WarShips and their DropShips.
---------------
“HOW COULD WE HAVE MISSED THIS?†Victor nearly screamed in anger as his body fought against the increased gravity forces as the DropShips continued to accelerate towards the jump point. Since the Falcons had abandoned Donegal and were now burning towards them Victor had ordered their combined forces to reverse course heading for the zenith jump point “the Jade Falcons must have been massing for this strike.â€
“Lyran Intelligence believed that these were reinforcements for Donegal†Victor Focht’s hologram replied.
“What about our own intelligence?â€
“There were clearly failings in…â€
“FAILINGS!†Victor shouted interrupting the man instantly seeing the abashed look on the younger man’s face. “With respect Commanding-General you command the SLDF and that includes regular army, special operations, naval forces and intelligence the buck stops with you.†He said calming down as he spoke seeing Focht taking in the criticism Victor had been slightly harsh but this situation was not what they needed. “Now we need to make a contingency plan†he said “we have a seven-day lead on the Falcons we need to communicate with Tharkad and have them direct their reinforcements to Odessa.â€
“We could jump out at the pirate point the JumpShips could return.†Focht suggested
“Negative†Victor said cutting the younger man off again “to do that we would need to begin deacceleration now that would allow the Falcons to overrun us while we charged our drives. If we run to the Jump point, then they also need to slow down giving us time to recharge our engines and escape. We do not need to fight over this system we need to pick our battles wisely.†He said feeling like he was giving Focht a lecture suppressing a smile thinking of all the times that his father Anastasius had lectured him during the Clan War. “Direct Wasp to Odessa as well, we are going to break the Falcons there.â€
Defence Alert
Capellan March, Federated Suns
20th December 3110
“People of the Capellan March, I am Duchess Kym Hasek, and it is my duty today to inform you that the Defence Alert Level in the Capellan March has been raised to Defence Level 4.†She said looking into the camera “this follows a series of peaceful protests across our realm that have turned violent. We believe that these protests were influenced by external factors and the Department of Military Intelligence looking for reports if you believe that anything is out of the ordinary or a threat to the realm.â€
She said looking at the camera “our realm is safer if we all watch out for threats towards it. Until further notice any large gathering of civilians will be monitored by an AFFS presence as well as local police and security authorities we will ensure the security of all of our civilians.â€
Victor Davion’s quarters, FSDS Davion’s Heart
Pirate Point, Donegal
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
23rd December 3110
In the week that it took Victor Steiner-Davion to make it to the jump point the two Jade Falcon WarShips had significantly closed on the Inner Sphere formation to the point that it would be close for them to escape without a conflict. The door for Victor’s quarters rang as Victor heard alarms through the ship signalling that the Black Prince was planning to use its transit drive. Victor made his way to the door to find Admiral Kristos Leroux standing waiting for him “Admiral?â€
“Sire, the Falcons have increased their speed and will be here before we are able to jump. We must delay them.â€
“The Falcons will not be able to stop in time for the jump point.†Victor said thinking through the actions of the Clan.
“No, they will not†Leroux agreed “sire, the DropShips carrying the McKinnon’s Raiders and the Wild Geese are being prepared to detach from their collars and await JumpShip retrieval.â€
“What?†Victor demanded he did not like the sound of what Leroux was saying.
“It is an old tradition, sire, the WarShip remains behind to cover the retreat. Black Prince has the capabilities to hold off those ships.â€
“Not alone!†Victor snapped he didn’t like the plan at all “no Admiral I will not allow you to sacrifice this Battleship and her crew so far from home, you may be able to damage those ships but they will surely destroy the Black Prince.†He said pausing thinking things through; there was only one other option. “Now with the Adam Davion and Lucian Davion in support you would have more chance of survival correct?†Leroux nodded “then I release both to support your operations.â€
“Sire, you cannot go to Odessa without WarShip supportâ€
“I will not be the Wasp and her support will be on the border within a few days. I am not rushing into another Falcon trick.†He said looking back into the room at his wife “give them hell Admiral.â€
---------------
The next day JumpShips began to escape the system carrying the Federated Suns and SLDF ground forces clear of the system. On board one of the Lyran Commonwealth Monolith-class JumpShips which had been sent to collect them Victor Steiner-Davion stood like a statue watching the holotank as the WarShip icons closed to engagement range.
“Herr Steiner-Davion, we must leave this system†the ship’s master said approaching from the side. He was young perhaps in his early thirties his tone was polite but lacked the respect due someone of Victor’s Steiner heritage. Given his history with the Lyran Commonwealth Victor would not hold it against him.
“Negative Kaptin Kerner, those are my people out there I will do them the justice of seeing them engage in our defence.†He said he saw the young man’s reaction to his words. “I am sorry Kaptin Kerner while I grew up in this nation and served on many of its worlds I gave up the right to call your people my own a long time ago.†He said looking back at the screens “the men and women on board those ships grew up when I was First Prince I am connected to them and will be until my last breath.â€
“Yes, sire†Kerner said changing his tone towards Victor “the past is the past and it cannot be changed even if that is what we desired.â€
“One thing humanity has not conquered†he said as the icons continued to close “time.â€
---------------
“We will take them down the port side†Leroux said from his command chair watching the screens “have the Adam remain in our wake they are to follow on our hits that will allow them to hit harder for their size.†He said “Lucian is to manoeuvre as they see fit and continue the barrage of missiles. We need to tax their heat dispensation systems.†He said as the first extreme range shots were exchanged mostly capital missiles but also some laser hits from both sides Leroux watched as the smallest of his ships the Adam Davion slid behind the Black Prince while the Lucian Davion II accelerated ahead, the Avalon II had the armour to take a couple of hits before having its combat capabilities degraded.
Ahead of the Federated Suns WarShips the two Jade Falcon vessels also manoeuvred with the smaller Nightlord-class Battleship moving ahead of the larger Mississippi-class the two ships moving to maintain their lock on the Lucian Davion II. “All hands get ready for some chop†Leroux warned “communications make sure our C3 net is up, assault DropShips and aerospace fighters hold position and get ready.†He said as another barrage was exchanged between the two sides this time the Black Prince’s heavy naval gauss rifles and forward particle cannons were added to the mix of fire from the Federated Suns WarShips. There was a reason that the Mercury-class was feared and now it was displayed as its weapons guided by the sensor data of the Lucian Davion ripped across the front of the Nightlord causing heavy damage even as the WarShip’s own weapons and those of the Mississippi behind opened fire on the Lucian Davion, the Jade Falcons had done the same as the Federated Suns vessels and concentrated on one vessel. As capital missiles from the Lucian Davion and Adam Davion joined the Black Prince’s fire the return fire from the two Battleships blew through the Lucian Davion’s port side breaching the Avalon’s armour.
“Lucian’s hull is breached, but emergency bulkheads have closed, no news on casualties.â€
“Have her break formation turn to starboard and clear the path we will take the hits.†Leroux commanded the concentrated fire from the two Battleships had been too much for the Cruiser. “Message to Adam Davion they need to cover Lucian’s damaged arc both ships are to continue missile bombardment of Nightord.†He said a moment later the Avalon II slipped out of formation even as the Mississippi fired on her again hitting the vessel’s port side again this time causing heavy damage midway along the vessel’s hull as the ship tried to clear the area the Congress II Adam Davion accelerating to join the wounded ship. “Status on the Nightlord?â€
“Operational but no longer firing, possible fire control damage.†The sensor officer reported together the two Battleships would rip open the Black Prince, if the missiles from the Black Prince’s support ships had weakened them enough to take them out of the fight they might have a chance.
“Let’s make them pay for that damage concentrate our fire on the Nightlord, defensive measures against the Mississippi, release all aerospace squadrons to strike missions on the Mississippi.†He commanded the Air Boss who looked surprised “we can take a couple of strafing runs if the Falcons are brave enough.†He said around the Black Prince aerospace fighters accelerated towards the mighty Jade Falcon Battleship as the Mercury’s guns continued to pound the Nightlord into scrap. The display was a very clear message to the Jade Falcons and anyone else who may be watching to compete against a vessel like the Mercury you needed to spend as much time on defences as on firepower. The Battleship’s fire seemed to intensify as it closed on the Nightlord which rotated as it closed on the Black Prince turning onto it’s back as the Black Prince’s fire continued to damage the vessel hatches on the underside of the ship opened releasing its cargo of Elementals and ProtoMechs to attack the Mercury even as the other Jade Falcon Battleship continued to pound the Federated Suns capital vessel.
“All crew prepare to repel boarders.†Leroux transmitted throughout the ship “point defence, thin them out.†He ordered moments later seeing that the vessel’s conventional autocannons and lasers were already acting cutting down several of the incoming Falcons. “Weapon control main guns on the Mississippi make them count.†He commanded as the second Jade Falcon WarShip came into view “Adam and Lucian to continue to fall back we’ve delayed them enough both vessels are to continue to trade fire with the Nightlord.†He said as the damaged Nightlord regained some weapon control and engaged the Adam Davion ripping the smaller Congress II almost in half as the Nightlord’s weapons tore through the armour and into the ship’s superstructure Leroux was surprised to see the Congress return fire on the larger ship despite the damage it had taken. “Stavag†Leroux cursed watching the battle unfold as much as he concentrated on the second Battleship. Between them the two ships had enough capital missiles, autocannons and lasers to stop the damaged Nightlord but the bigger ship could break either of them with the weapons it had left.
“BOARDERS ON HULL, BOARDERS ON HULL, BOARDERS ON HULL.†The automated warning system activated as sensors detected battle armour and ProtoMechs landing on the hull.
“SHUT THAT DAMNED THING OFF!†Leroux shouted as more fire from the Mississippi slammed into the Black Prince. “Helm maintain course and rotate the hull to starboard, full rotation, weapons control pass to all stations prepare for immediate rotation! Air Boss, our fighters need to do more against that damned Battleship I want her hull breached!†He commanded as the massive Mercury-class Battleship began to roll along its axis the ship’s weapons targeting the Mississippi as the ship turned. The sudden movement of the Black Prince had the same effect as a BattleMech dropping to its knees when boarded by Elementals during combat the rapid movement making some of the Elementals and ProtoMechs lose their footing on the hull falling into space.
As the Mercury rotated in space the Mississippi slid past the ship while continuing to be buzzed by aerospace fighters. “Sir, aerospace squadron commanders reporting they are approaching bingo fuel, the Mississippi is moving out of their engagement ranges.â€
“Recall fighters. Helm end rotation, bring us about and begin deceleration. Forward weapons continue to engage primary target.†He said looking at the holotank seeing that Lord Victor Steiner-Davion’s Monolith still remained in system. “Communications send message to the First Prince†he said smiling as he used Victor’s old title, the one so many members of the crew still used to describe him. “Inform him we did what we could and will continue to engage but he needs to leave now†he commanded.
In space the FSS Black Prince turned in space flipping end over end its main engines engaging nearly as soon as the rotation was complete beginning to counter the ship’s momentum as aerospace fighters retreated to their mothership. The Black Prince’s forward weapons continued to target the Mississippi as it began its own rotation to decelerate before the jump point the Battleship’s guns were not on the Black Prince however instead the Jade Falcon vessel targeted and finished off the Adam Davion which had struggled to retreat any further since the Nightlord opened fire on the vessel. “Have Lucian cease fire and take survivors from Adam†Leroux said watching as the Lucian Davion continued to engage the two Jade Falcon Battleships causing yet more damage to both with their forward capital missile batteries it took a lot to destroy a Battleship. At the jump point the Monolith which carried Victor Steiner-Davion finally left the system. “Broadcast to all Falcon troops on board it is time for them to surrender this battle is over.â€
The Elementals and ProtoMechs which had boarded the Black Prince continued to fight on for several hours after Kristos Leroux’s command with each of them agreeing to turn over their weapons and become bondsmen to the Federated Suns. As a further blow to the Jade Falcons two days later on the Christmas Day the Nightlord-class Battleship Emerald Talon attempted to jump from the system only for its KF Drive to fail and shut down stranding the vessel in the Donegal system. With the FSS Black Prince and FSS Lucian Davion II closing on the vessel and the Mississippi already jumping away and the vessel facing insurmountable odds the crew of the Nightlord had no choice but to surrender to Lyran authorities. As Isorla from the battle the Federated Suns WarShips claimed all of the Emerald Talon’s remaining aerospace fighters and an Ordun-class DropShip filled with salvaged parts taken from the battlefields of Donegal several members of the Emerald Talon’s crew and aerospace pilots demanded to be taken as bondsmen to the Federated Suns as it was the AFFS and not the Lyrans who had defeated them in battle.
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Vition2 your map is awesome seriously I love them!
Into 3111 again this update is pretty massive in this case because of James Tanaga and Vition2. DOC_Agren I hope you like what I've done with your unit Korbin's Kommandos in this opening fiction. Vition2 I hope you like what I did with your last bit.
3111
Coventry Spaceport, Port St William
Coventry, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd January 3111
Stepping from the damaged DropShip Hammerfall Colonel Burt Korbin and his son Lt Colonel Hermann Korbin walked out onto the busy tarmac of Coventry’s primary spaceport. “It’s nice to be back on Commonwealth soil†the elder Korbin said glancing at his son.
“It would have been nicer to return in victory instead of defeat.â€
“We were not defeated, son, we were out maneuverer Clan Fire Mandrill had the support and the firepower to steamroll us at anytime. As far as the Clans are concerned we are dezgra in their eyes but they let us go there’s something to be happy with.†He pointed out as a pair of armoured limousines drove up.
“I don’t like sucking up to the Bradfords.â€
“Neither do I†Burt said as the limo’s doors opened “but Hammerfall won’t go much further we need assistance in giving her a full overhaul or replacing her and there’s only one family that would support us without trying to take control over the Kommandos that’s the Bradfords.†He said climbing into the limo his son loitering at the door “look I know it isn’t going to be easy to see her again but we don’t have a choice now get in the limo.â€
----------------------------
The drive from the spaceport to the Bradford’s Mansion was a short one. The city of Port St. William was a busy one with multiple companies working for the city, for Coventry and the Bradford family but it was still a beautiful world with most of the factories underground or non-polluting. The Bradford Family Estate was on the outskirts of Port St. William and while small it was surrounded by granite stone walls and guarded by members of the First Coventry Cuirassiers the limo pulled up to the front of the Bradford residence.
Burt and Hermann Korbin stepped out of the limo and were met by one of the Bradford family’s staff and brought through and into the main meeting room there stood Duke Thomas Bradford the head of the Bradford family and the Duke of Coventry. Beside him stood his oldest surviving daughter Duchess Alessandra Bradford who smiled when she saw Hermann. “Welcome back to Coventry, Colonel Korbin.â€
“Thank you, Duke Bradford†the elder Korbin said shaking Bradford’s hand.
“I hear that you have agreed to sign a new contract with the Lyran Commonwealth but have asked for your first assignment to be deferred without pay?â€
“That’s correct†Burt Korbin said glancing at his son.
“Duke Bradford the Kommanndos took heavy damage fighting against the pirate forces that have helped reform the Cirincus Federation and we would like some revenge.†Hermann said looking between both of them. “Our Fortress was badly damaged several times during our time in the Erdvynn Province the ship is space worthy but it isn’t ready for operations.†He said “we have some money laid aside and some clan technology to trade.â€
“You should be able to afford any ship on the market†Bradford suggested.
“We would like to purchase a Fesnyng†Hermann said naming one of the Lyran Commonwealth's newest type of DropShip.
“Those are not for sale†Alessandra said immediately and quite harshly.
“But a well-placed word from the leaders of a Provincial Capital can go a long way.†Korbin said looking at his old friend “we can still help defend the Commonwealth Thomas we just need a push in the right direction.â€
“I think there is something I can do for you come with me, Colonel, we can discuss this further elsewhere and leave these two to become reacquainted.†He said glancing at Alessandra and Hermann. The two older men slowly made their way out of the room.
“Your father seems to be doing well even if he is leaning on my father for support again†Alessandra said moving across the room to pour them both a drink. He watched her move she had brunette hair and the blue knee length dress she wore was tight enough to be flattering but also functional.
“They are old friends and we will pay for the DropShip and anything else we buy. The fighting in Erdvynn took its toll†Hermann admitted looking at the door that their fathers had left through “we lost some good people and all the salvage we’ve taken in the world won’t replace them.â€
“You seem to have matured yourself†she said returning with the glasses filled with what smelled like Coventry Scotch Hermann took one of the glasses and took a sip it was strong but sweet. “Ready for a command Colonel?†She asked wondering if he could be swayed from the mercenary command.
“My father is the Kommandos commander. I will command when the time is right.†He said briskly making it clear that he was a mercenary warrior and was not interested in another job.
“My father can get you the DropShip you desire and probably some cut price BattleMechs to make up for your losses.†She said smirking knowing that he would like the answer “but I might have to convince him to delay his decision for personal reasons.†She said stepping closer to him “if I could keep you close I would.†She admitted “it’s been too long Hermann†she said reaching out to touch his face which he leaned into but remained apart from her. “Just remember you have somewhere to return to.â€
-------------------
As the Kommandos looked to rearmed and ready for a fight elsewhere within the Lyran Commonwealth Kathy Parks sighed as she leaned her old body deep into the comfy chair. She spent the past two hours arguing with the Archon on the ongoing situation regarding the Southwest Covenant.
She shook her head, for the Archon had ordered her to retake the worlds at first. She knew it was but politics, but it rankled her to having to go through the loop of refusing her old friend. Once that was out of the way, the real argument began in earnest.
Simply put, the Archon was beyond angry at for three primary things. First, Kathy had ordered for the remaining elements of the Third, Seventh, and Sixteenth Lyran Regulars to be disbanded. Their personnel and equipment were to form four new Light Combat Teams, forming the Buena Guards Brigade.
Kathy well understood the Archon’s displeasure, but shrugged it off. She needed to reign in control over the remaining Lyran units within the Archonette and could not afford to go through further political and bureaucratic nonsense just to get what she needed. It would be months before they were reorganized and combat ready but it was a start.
Secondly, the Archon and the Estates General were both beyond furious she had acknowledged the Southwest Covenant Worlds. In doing so, she had successfully negotiated to get Lyran prisoners and their dependents out of the Southwest Covenant. If the Archon and the Estates General believed that made them weak, then that was what they could believe. What mattered to her was the Covenant could not use them as hostages and further allowed her and the Archonette a further LCT of trained personnel, though equipment was short, as the Covenant had kept the equipment at Poulsbo and other worlds. She was fine with that. In January the SLDF would began transferring them back into the Archonette.
The last was an agreement Kathy had signed with Rim Motors for the building of aerospace and DropShip factories at Buena. She shook her head, but understood the position the Lyran Archon held on the subject. The much younger woman, her nominal leader, was very much afraid the Buena Archonette would become another Isle of Skye or worse form its own state as Cirincus and the Southwest Covenant had further destabilizing the region.
She had rebutted the move was necessary. When Jessica argued that it was not and she was countermanding the agreement to have Lockheed-CBM and Tharkad Aerospace Group get the contract, the elderly Archonette reminded the Archon she, not Jessica, ruled the Archonette.
What followed next was a disaster as far as their friendship went, what with the Archon reminding Kathy her position was but temporary. That threat Kathy could not let go, for if she had done so, she would be seen as weak-willed to the Archon, something she knew the Estates General would not allow. So she had rebutted her old friend, reminding her the Estates General had taken the Archonette out from under her nose, and that she should concentrate on the Clans and the survival of their realm.
She shook her head. She hoped Jessica would take to heart her parting words. “Stop playing politics and actually use your resources! You got the First Fesnyng and the Mountain Wolves you can still use!†She well knew why the Archon refused to use the First Fesnyng and the Wolves however. The First Fesnyng and Kelly Varnay Jessica had ordered to stay at York or be branded traitors, not wanting them anywhere near her uncle publically having a Varnay anywhere near Victor Steiner-Davion would be political supporters. Although far removed from Lyran politics Victor was still well liked and respected by many. As for the Mountain Wolves, ever since the majority had declared for Clan Wolf and re-joined Clan Society proper, the two lone clusters the Clan had were not trusted by the Estates General.
Now was not the time to play politics, she well knew. And she could only hope the Archon would follow the lead Kathy had quickly set here in the Buena Archonette.
Raven Communications Center, Nexus Ri
Shared World, Border World
Draconis Combine/Raven Alliance (others)
5th January 3111
“Star Colonel, we are receiving a transmission from the Combine,†the comms tech spoke to Errol Cole, Star Colonel of the 5th Raven Chasseurs cluster, the current Star Colonel on duty.
“Put them throughâ€
“Star Colonel, this is Tai-Sho Sasakawa of the Draconis Combine’s Second Genyosha regiment. As per the agreement with the Raven Alliance, we offer a trial against the rights of ownership of the worlds of the Kesai thumb. See the attached file for the details.†Errol Cole looked over the data.
“The Kesai thumb was not part of the agreement, your demand for trial is impudent and unfounded!†Cole rose, slamming his fist on the desk in front of him emphasizing the last words.
“The agreement states ‘Trials will occur over all conflicted worlds,’ though the worlds of the Kesai thumb have been in Raven Alliance hands for more than two decades, the Combine never relinquished their claim to the worlds, and they are thus acceptable targets for trials. The Combine accepts that this may have been unexpected and have included mitigating provisions included in the details of the trials.†Bryant remains stoic in the face of Cole’s ire. “Provide us with the trial locations and forces to be included within twenty-four hours.â€
As the Star Colonel sat down to read the documents sent by the Combine he mused, “The Genyosha, they were not supposed to be here.†The specifics of the trials showed some interesting provision, they would trial for five systems: Kesai IV, Delacruz, Groveld III, Niles, and Alegro, but there would be a series of secondary trials fought with low powered weapons, the number of trials depending on the size and strength of the defending forces. If the defenders won every trial the Combine claim to the world would be forfeit, allowing it to remain the the Raven Alliance’s hands, given the number of trials involved for each world, that was a pretty minimal possibility though. Cole contacted the other two Star Colonels on planet, those of the First Raven Battle and Fifth Raven Chasseurs, bidding would begin immediately.
A couple days later, the trials take place nearly simultaneously in various trial locations around the planet. Considering they were arrayed against one of the most elite of Combine formations, the Ravens put up a strong showing, regardless of the actual results, which were anything but in the Ravens favour. In only a single trial the Ravens manage to barely eke out a victory, and primarily due to a combination of location and proper forces for the terrain, giving victory laurels to the First Raven Battle cluster and keeping Niles in the hands of the Ravens. The results are quickly transmitted to the affected planets.
Less than a week later the planned battles begin on Alegro, Kesai IV, Delacruz and Groveld III where Combine and Alliance troops meet in controlled battles. Two units are assigned to each of Kesai IV and Delacruz where the Raven forces include Beta Galaxy’s Fourteenth Raven Battle and the Ninth Raven Wing clusters, while only a single unit is sent each to Alegro and Groveld III the only opposing forces being the native and Alliance militias. On Kesai IV, Delacruz, and Groveld III the Ravens and Combine trade victories back and forth, giving the Combine units a warm up before they move towards the Federated Suns border. The militia unit on Alegro pulls off a surprise, having a couple of old Raven warriors who chose the ‘oblivion’ of a militia unit rather than Solahma manage to surprise their opponents on multiple occasions, and defeat them in every trial. Alegro stays within the Raven Alliance, and the success of ‘washed up old warriors’ forces the Raven Alliance to look at their culture once again.
Main Battle site, Outskirts New Bealton
Odessa, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
7th January 3111
After watching the WarShips that had been sent to defend him move against the Falcons in the Donegal system Victor Steiner-Davion had decided that he would not sit on the side-lines when they finally reached Odessa. Now he sat in Prometheus’ cockpit surrounded by warriors of the McKinnon’s Raiders Regiment as they stalked the Jade Falcons who were steadily retreating from battle.
The entire situation on Odessa had confused Victor when his combined force had arrived in system the two Jade Falcon WarShips were near the Gabriel Facility and were surrounded by assault DropShips and almost a galaxy’s worth of aerospace fighters. The combined Inner Sphere task force of Star League, Lyran Commonwealth and Draconis Combine WarShips remained near Odessa providing complete aerial dominance which made the Falcon’s life even harder. Why the Falcons had pushed to Odessa after retreating from Donegal Victor did not really know but now their forces were being pushed to breaking point by the Inner Sphere ground forces which had been reinforced by the survivors of the First Commonwealth Guards and the SLDF’s Third Special Operations Group who the Jade Falcons had failed to finish off.
“Jade Falcon commander this is Commander Victor Steiner-Davion surrender your forces before you are completely destroyed.†He said marching his assault OmniMech towards the Jade Falcons.
“The little prince himself†a voice almost snarled over the comms in response. “I will not surrender my force to you.†She said from the Falcon line a single Shirke BattleMech stepped clear of the main Falcon lines “I challenge you to single combat Commander.â€
“And why would I accept your challenge Clan Commander? Our forces heavily outgun your own.â€
“Because I am Khan Jana Pryde leader of the Jade Falcons and if you defeat me little prince you will not only capture my forces but Jade Falcon offensive operations against the Lyran Commonwealth will end.†She replied
“And if you are victorious?†He asked knowing there would be a price.
“Other than the satisfaction of being the one who killed the little prince?†She asked taunting him he scanned her BattleMech as she spoke it was five tons lighter and carried less firepower than his OmniMech and but it was far more manoeuvrable. “You let my Falcons leave this world with what we have won and unmolested and you leave this border.â€
“I accept†he said stepping Prometheus clear of the allied line. On his right he noticed two communications lines were active he reached down and toggled both switches “yes, gentlemen†he said addressing Colonel Canin McKinnion and Commanding-General Victor Focht.
“Sire, I was sent to protect you I can’t do this if you volunteer to engage what could be the most dangerous Falcon on this planet.†On his sensors he saw McKinnon’s Warhawk angling towards him fro the right-hand side.
“Victor, you were sent to advise and assist SLDF operations if anyone should be fighting this battle it should be me.†Focht said his own Avatar OmniMech closing on his position. “We should overwhelm them.â€
“Negative both of you listen I have her attention and I have the BattleMech to finish her off with. She has challenged me and I have accepted substituting someone else will break the rules of the Trial, the Clanners will declare it void regardless of our victory.†He said moving Prometheus another step forward “I’m doing this just make sure if she is victorious we stick with this agreement breaking it will bring hell from all of the Clans.â€
-------------
Victor moved Prometheus to the side engaging with his pair of large lasers one went wide while the other burned down the side of enemy Shirke. In response the great “BirdMech†leapt into the air its wings opening as the assault Mech took to the air triggering both of its own large lasers and its large arm mounted HAG Rifle. Both lasers found their mark on Prometheus’ left leg while the HAG peppered Victor’s Mech’s torso.
“So you can shoot†Victor said halting his eastward course and turning back west towards his target. As he closed all three pulse lasers lit up showing they were in range and Victor sent a green volley of pulse laser fire into the Shirke as it came into land the lasers burning across the enemy Mech’s torso. The Shirke landed gracefully as if it had not just lost almost two tons of armour and again engaged with its lasers and HAG causing yet more damage to Prometheus’ left leg and torso. Victor looked at the armour even with the hits the Dire Wolf had taken it could weather several more before an armour breach. With his run taking him ever closer to the Shirke soon his autocannon would come into play and it would be game over for the Jade Falcon Khan. He continued to fire triggering his pulse lasers as the Shirke engaged with lasers while continuing to close.
With the range closing Victor let loose with his ultra autocannon blasting a great hole in the left torso of the Shirke ripping a large laser and part of the Jade Falcon Mech’s over shoulder wing from the chassis. The Shirke returned fire with its remaining laser and short range missile launcher Victor smirked pulling the trigger on his autocannon again this time the autocannon sounded like it got about half way through its firing cycle before.
CHINK, CHINK, CHINK, as metal ground against metal and the autocannon jammed.
“NO! NO! NO!†He shouted instinctively pulling the firing triggers with his left hand firing his SRMs and pulse lasers at the Falcon Mech as his right hand tried to recycle the autocannon and clear the jam his OmniMech was slammed by another laser blast and the Shirke’s HAG as the Falcon Khan continued to fire before the BattleMech’s right hand slammed into Prometheus scouring over the top of the OmniMech ripping the SRM system from it’s housing Victor felt like his Mech was being ripped apart piece-by-piece. He triggered both of his large lasers again as he tried to clear the jammed autocannon kicking out with his Mech’s leg shattering the left knee of Shirke.
The Falcon BattleMech twisted slamming the the HAG barrel into Victor’s OmniMech at the last moment Victor twisted his Mech away from the incoming barrel as Khan Jana Pryde pulled the trigger on the weapon sending concentrated shots into the Prometheus’ hull. Victor felt the engine shielding being damaged and the cockpit becoming a furnace before gyro housing was shaken by sustained hits he felt Prometheus shaking and begin to go limp. “EJECTING!†Victor shouted pulling the rip cords blowing his OmniMech’s cockpit open and sending his command chair into the air away from the dying Dire Wolf.
Soaring through the air he felt the air superheat as the Falcon Khan fired her large laser into the air trying to catch his ejection chair with her fire with his back turned to the BattleMech below Victor did not see what happened next. On the ground both McKinnon’s Warhawk and Focht’s Avatar both fired on the Falcon Shirke the Falcon Khan screamed into the communications system as she twisted her BattleMech to face the two enemy Mechs “YOU DARE BREAK THIS HONOUR DUEL!†She snarled her BattleMech was in no condition to attack them with the smashed remains of her HAG still imbedded in the hull of the downed Dire Wolf at her feet.
“There is no honour in targeting a downed warrior†Victor Focht said speaking before Canin McKinnon could speak “we will honour the agreement that you made today with Victor, you may leave this world with your spoils of war.â€
“We shall return†she said angrily looking again to the sky seeing Victor’s command chair coming down behind SLDF lines. Unseen by the Jade Falcon Khan the command chair came down heavily slamming into a tree knocking Victor Steiner-Davion unconscious with several branches penetrating his coolant suit.
Nova Cat Hall, Oathmaster’s Office
Great Hall of the Clans, City of Andrey,
Tukayyid, Independent Clan Territory
10th January 3111
Entering the Oathmaster’s office from different doors Khan Canin Rosse and saKhan Katrine Devalis stood opposite each other for several moments in silence both wore the black jumpsuit of Clan Nova Cat but Katrine had added a fur cape to her uniform while Canin remained wearing the traditional uniform.
“Khan Rosse†Katrine said breaking the deadlock
“saKhan Devalis†the elder Khan repled equally courtly.
“Enough of this you both hate each other all of the Clans know that.†Oathmaster Klick Lenardon the huge Elemental bred warrior said stepping out from behind his desk standing between them. “Our Clan is one of the most successful we hold two sets of territory comfortably holding off two of the Succession States, we have good trade with all the Clans, we build all of our own weapons and we have virtually no trouble from our civilian population. We should be leading the Clans!†He snapped glancing between the two Khans “instead because you do not like her methods and you do not like his we are fighting as a split Clan instead of a single Clan.â€
“There has been good combat opportunities against the Combine to give up the territory we hold there would be foolish.â€
“And to begin a war with what is perhaps the most powerful of all the Inner Sphere states would be equally foolish†Canin Rosse said agreeing with his saKhan turning on the Oathmaster “you are correct we are powerful but not powerful enough to break the Federated Suns, perhaps you have spent too much time on Tukayyid.â€
“Neg, I have not†Lenardon said looking his Khan in the face “our Clan cannot continue the path it is going we are becoming two Clans not one.â€
“We transfer troops between the OZ and Den†Devalis said attempting to defend their current path.
“Not enough†Rosse stated looking her in the face “there are certain units that do not return home and have begun to recruit local forces to their units.â€
“They have taken bondsmen…â€
“Who have never stepped food in the Den†he said cutting her off “tradition would state that those warriors should return home for their induction into our Clan to understand what being a Nova Cat is about.â€
“Tradition does not win wars. Your tradition has been to try and keep our Clan on the Warden path to live alongside the Federated Suns in peace while mine has been to take the fight to the Combine. Each year we take another step forward against them. We are making more progress than even the Ravens are.â€
“Because the Ravens have adopted our strategy with the Combine!†Rosse snapped again “if the Combine and Ravens ever finish their conflict and the Federated Suns stops its conflict against the Draconis Combine our people will suffer.â€
“But as it stands there does not look like there is much chance of that happening.†Devalis state even this month we have seen the Combine take four Raven worlds and assault five different Federated Suns systems. There back is turned my people face inexperienced warriors as we drive deep into the Combine worlds fall beneath out guns.â€
“But for how long?â€
“Who cares we are the Clans we take victories and losses as they come, we were created to fight.â€
“Not recklesslyâ€
“You old fool our Clan will stagnate under your command! I should have killed you when I had the chance.â€
“But you could not make the hard choice.â€
“I will make it now†she snapped back.
“NEG, YOU WILL NOT!†Lenardon finally snapped looking at the two of them. “I called you both here because I wished for us to meditate on the choices we have made and to broker peace between our leadership but now I see that between you you have broken our Clan. There is only one course of action…†he began as Katrine Devalis spoke once more.
“Aff, I agree, I declare a Trial of…â€
“Neg, no trials†Lenardon said cutting off Devalis before she could say another word “we will call a Grand Council Meeting and call for the creation of a new Clan.†He said seeing Devalis joy at his suggestion while Canin Rosse looked horrified.
“That is not your decision to make Oathmaster.â€
“The well-being of our Clan is my choice to make.†He said turning towards Canin Rosse “Khan Rosse your steady leadership had brought out Clan to the place it now is but even you must see that the drain Katrine Devalis operations puts on the Nova Cat Clan could be spent elsewhere. You have already said that there are things that we could not stop the Federated Suns. Without the drain of the raids against the Draconis Combine we could concentrate our resources on them.â€
“Perhaps take Galaxies Theta and Iota off the drawing board and into reality.†Katrine Devalis suggested Rosse shot her a glance and she shrugged her shoulders “I see the reports from the Den I know you have stockpiled enough munitions to create at least one more Galaxy possibly two. Our Clan has not seen the operations the others have recently you have only held off forming them because warriors come to my Occupation Zone instead of remaining in the Den.†She said Rosse nodded the attacks on the Draconis Combine were a drain on his Clan’s resources but it was also a release, a far more effective one than the small trials his main forces took against the Federated Suns.
“You do know that the other Clans could oppose this?†Rosse pointed out “the Ravens are close enough that they could even cast you as Dezgra and declare a Trial of Absorbtion.â€
“The great Khan Canin Rosse will not let that happen†Katrine Devalis said “for all our differences those are still your people. You will fght for them despite our desire to rule ourselves.â€
“What makes you so sure saKhan Devalis?â€
“You are an honourable man†she said smiling “and you believe in the Clans the concept of all of the Clans. You believe in Kerensky’s teachings that all of the Clans together make our society work not just a single powerful Clan.â€
“Together we could make a powerful Clan.â€
“No, Canin, our ways are too different. I wish to see the Inner Sphere burn but you are content to live alongside them. The three galaxies that follow me agree it is why you sent me the warriors that you have and it is why you will release any other warrior who wishes to join us because we desire something different than you do.â€
“The Combine…â€
“Will die a slow lingering death and I will watch it every step of the way from the head of my Clan.†Katrine Devalis said smiling “I have foreseen it the Dragon will die.†She said looking at the Oathmaster with such conviction that Klick Lenardon could not discount that she had experienced a vision. “We shall call for a Grand Council meeting and our futures will be decided.â€
“It could take some time†Lenardon noted “for this we must summon all of the Khans they cannot simply attend by HPG they must see the passion and desire in you, both of you, for this to work.â€
“I do not agree with this course of action Katrine Devalis but what the Oathmaster says is true there is a divide within our Clan and I will not allow it to continue. Oathmaster make the calls for a Grand Council Meeting.†Khan Canin Rosse said turning leaving the room.
Border Conflict
Draconis Combine/Federated Suns
15th January 3111
Identifying a weak point in Federated Suns lines the Draconis Combine pushes into the worlds of Thestria, Misery, Elidere IV and Barlowe’s End destroying the Second Albion Military Cadre Regiment the Cameron’s Legion Regiment and the Dragon’s Breath mercenary units. The Combine force had come looking for the Third Ceti Hussars RCT and their attached WarShip but both commands are missing. Another attack against Umjiri is pushed back by elements of the Lexington Combat Group and the Second New Hessen Irregulars as the mercenary commands are trusted by the AFFS to hold this territory which is pointed at Benjamin, the capital of the Combine district of the same name.
A week after these attacks the Federated Suns launches an assault against McComb and Lima as the location of the Third Ceti Hussars RCT is revealed. While two Combat Commands of the Ceti Hussars assaults McComb the RCT’s third Combat Command combines with the Twenty-first Illician Rangers Regiment assaults Lima quickly both systems fall to the Federated Suns.
Across the Inner Sphere the Lyran Commonwealth, SLDF and Mercenary forces combine to retake the Alma Alta and Cameron systems with Commanding-General Victor Focht building on the momentum with Victor Steiner-Davion’s conflict on Odessa began. In both cases the Jade Falcons accept to fight honour bound Trials of Possession for the two systems and lose Alma Alta to Lyran Commonwealth forces while Commanding-General Focht leads the assault on Cameron personally with the SLS Cavalier, an Otey-class Battleship supporting the ground forces but not actually involved in the battle.
Quantraine
New Samarkand Military District
Draconis Combine
22nd January 3111
“The fortifications you’ve constructed here appear formidable, I suspect that Castles Brian would look upon these with envy.†Akira Kurita spoke looking upon the walls and gun emplacements the Tenth Sword of Light had built upon and into the soil of Quantraine.
“They never would have been possible without the funding and supplies you sent us, my lord, but we still would have been hard pressed against the Ravens had they attacked on their schedule. But we still would have held them off.†Tai-sho Kaoru Kito assured the Coordinator. As his pocket comms chimed. “Excuse me, my lord... How many?... Have they transmitted anything yet?†The Tai-sho turned for a moment, his jaw setting as he continued to speak, before turning back to the impatient Coordinator. “Sir, come with me, multiple Raven WarShips have entered the system, our orbital defenses will not be able to hold them.â€
“Get me a comm line to orbit,†with the Tai-sho taken aback, Akira spoke again, “Now!â€
It took a few minutes but the Coordinator was eventually brought before a comms unit and transmitted to orbit. “This is Coordinator Akira Kurita, I demand to know the reason for the Raven incursion into this system.â€
“Coordinator Kurita, I am Galaxy Commander Ilse Guo commander of the Swift Wing Galaxy of the Snow Ravens, I am honoured to speak with you. The incursions of the Combine over the Kesai thumb are intolerable, and the Raven Alliance has determined that the Combine is no longer capable of keeping control of Quantraine in addition to their forays into the Federated Suns. Quantraine will henceforth be a Raven holding. With what forces will you defend.â€
“You Ravens have already attempted the trial for this system and FAILED! You no longer have rights to this system, it is MINE! Remove yourselves or suffer the wrath of the Dragon.â€
Isle Guo glared daggers at Akira, but spoke with a calm assurance, “You yourself have signed off on incursions into Raven territory beyond the intentions of the agreement, the Alliance will not allow this to go unanswered. We are taking this system, either through honourable trial or through the use of our WarShips, the decision is yours.â€
Angrily Akira Kurita spoke, “I, myself, will control the defences of the planet, with the Tenth Sword of Light as my blade. You will rue the day you crossed swords with the Dragon over this world.†He cut off the transmission and turned to the commander of the Tenth, “prepare the defences, I want units here, here, and here.†He points to the nearby map of the defences, spreading out the Tenth in very aggressive positions, but also least able to take advantage of the emplaced defences.
“Sir, it is your right to command, but might I suggest someone with a more intimate knowledge of the planet?â€
“The Ravens have overstepped this time, I will put them in their place and they will know the Dragon does not deign to suffer them.â€
-------------------------------------------------------
The crux of the defences of Quantraine were built around a series of DropShips, intended to serve as either as last stand bunkers or to evacuate the last vestiges of the defenders. Akira took his place in the Overlord modified for command over the planet’s defences as three clusters of the Ravens Alpha Galaxy landed on the plateau a short way outside the perimeter of the fortification’s defences.
The Raven forces quickly split into four groups, each of the First Phalanx and the First Battle Cluster splitting into two prongs of the attack and the entire First ProtoMech being held in reserve. Three of these ran into opposition immediately, with the result being a virtual stalemate between the Tenth and the Ravens, though the Ravens are burning through their supplies at a very quick pace. The fourth managed to push deep into the fortifications, picking apart the defences from range before they can make much effect on the clan forces, and showing the weakness of the undermanned defences.
Akira noting the overextension of the Ravens in the fourth prong and ignoring reports suggesting the unclanlike behaviour of holding back reserves collapses one of the other battalions to surround the Raven incursion, against the advice of Tai-Sho Kito. The weakness along the lines was exactly what the Ravens were waiting for and the entirety of the First ProtoMech Cluster is thrown against the lines, breaking through the meagre remains and splitting into two groups. One rolls up the flank of Combine forces, while the other moves onto the command DropShip itself.
Recognizing the threat to the DropShip Akira sent out a transmission in the open for all to hear: “Commander Kito, the failure of your defences, your failure against the Ravens, and your failure in my own defence marks three failures. The Combine does not need such a poor weapon as yourselves, you are hereby cast out of the Combine Military and declared criminal within the realm.†Akira commands his DropShip thrust into orbit joining with the remaining DCMS aerospace forces and forcing their way past picket Raven defences, fortunately the Clan’s WarShips had remained at the jump points following the Combine’s agreement to fight an honourable conflict, with the Ravens unable to interdict the Combine leader Akira Kurita is able to escape via a pirate point on a waiting JumpShip.
Upon hearing the declaration, Tai-Sho Kito offered his surrender immediately to the Ravens, who quickly take the survivors as bondsmen, seeing the potential in reinvigorating the ranks of the Ravens with seasoned veterans. Three days later, Kaoru throws those plans into disarray as he declares a trial for the freedom of him, his troops and their equipment. While respecting the attempt but already classing the unit as a captured warriors Galaxy Commander Guo pits him against three opponents at once heavily stacking the odds against the man intent on seeing his death but maintaining control over the rest of the survivors. Showing skills beyond those of the First Battle Cluster warriors pitted against him Kito manages to defeat the opponents Guo agrees to release the remains of the Tenth Sword of Light from its bonds but reminds the commander that his nation has already cut him loose.
The fate of Quantraine lies in doubt as the Combine refuses to relinquish claim to the world, this results in a near constant state of conflict for the world, as it changes hands frequently rarely being controlled by one of the nations for more than a month at a time. The area around which the Combine built up the fortifications is reduced to a wasteland as most of the battles take place in and around the area.
-------------------------------------------------------
At the same time as the battle of Quantraine begins, the First Avellar Cluster and the Corvus Keshik make landfall on Nexus Ri. While Khan Sukhanov is not present, the use of both the Keshik and a mostly native composed Alliance cluster makes a statement on its own. Directly targeting the Second Genyosha, they declare a trial over the most recently constructed hull of the Combine’s Yamato-class battleship. The trial is hard fought but the combination of the intensity of the Avellar Guards and the precision of the Corvus Keshik forces the Genyosha to concede. The results are immediately transmitted to New Samarkand.
A few days later a small fleet including a Potemkin and a number of JumpShips with associated DropShips arrive in New Samarkand to take the Raven’s prize. With Akira Kurita currently away from communications, the naval commander of the system attempts to deny the Raven’s claims, but Hohiro Kurita tells him to stand down, that the Combine will deal honourably with the Ravens. They turn the barely airtight and completely unarmed DCS Drogon over to the Snow Ravens without further conflict with their prize secured the Snow Ravens leave New Samarkand without further conflict.
Raven Alliance Clan Council Hall
Dante
Raven Alliance
26th January, 3111
“Bloodnamed of the Raven Alliance,†Khan Vir Sukhanov began the clan council, “Today I announce the successful end of Operation Portent.†Cheers of support occur around the council hall, but with subdued enthusiasm, losses had been greater than expected and the Combine had taken advantage of the trial system setup on Nexus Ri. “With the capture of a Yamato-class hull and the Susanoo in Quatre Belle, we make good our naval losses during this conflict. We are also taking the next step in integrating the Alliance into our forces, reallocating garrison forces to our front lines. Look to your data pads for details, but a total of seven garrison clusters are entering front line status.â€
“In addition, we are working with the United Outworlders Corporation to fully upgrade their facilities to clan specifications. While this may take most of next year, the projected output will massively increase our aerospace and BattleMech production. And Clan medical technologies will begin spreading into the Alliance medical facilities at a faster rate. Other industries will follow. And the Raven will fly.†The crows of support were stronger this time though a core of more traditional bloodhouses remain silent; in their eyes they were seeing the disappearance of their Clan and the rise of the Raven Alliance much as the Ghost Bears were now indistinguishable from the Rasalhague Dominion.
Hohiro’s Private Rooms, Imperial Palace,
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
30th January, 3111
“YOU DID WHAT!†Akira blasted through the doors into Hohiro’s private suite of rooms in the Imperial Palace.
Looking up, Hohiro looked non-plussed, “I did what was necessary for the safety of the realm, we -â€
“By giving the Ravens a battleship, yeah, that’ll make us safer.â€
Hohiro stood up, “We cannot fight a war against the Federated Suns while risking the Ravens stabbing us in the side, cousin. We have enough enemies right now.†He said he had spent the day reading reports from the Federated Suns front the other Succession state was givng as good as it got.
“No thanks to you, but I have put the Suns on their back foot, I am retaking worlds, and I will keep the Ravens at bay. I am the DRAGON!â€
Hohiro stepped forward and slapped Akira across the face, hard, then spoke in a quiet voice, “Did you learn nothing from father? You were given all the tools needed to succeed, but you squander them. You ignore the issues of your subjects, and decline to send support when they request it. You took command of the Tenth Sword and denied them when your mistakes failed them. You are showing that you care nothing for the troops, and they are beginning to waver. The realm is holding by a thread, and you are a rusty blade sawing against it. Get your head in order before you tear the realm apart, or it tears you apart, like your birth father.â€
“HOW DARE YOU!†Akira screamed looking at his cousin “WHO THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE! I AM THE DRAGON I DECIDE WHAT HAPPENS WITHIN THIS REALM!†He continued to scream in his cousin’s face “Who are you to lay your hands on me?â€
“I am the man who will save this realmâ€
“You are the man who will live your life in chains†Akira seethed his voice now low “GUARDS!†He screamed immediately two troopers of the Genyosha stepped into the room “arrest Gunji-no-Kanrei Hirohito Kurita he is a traitor to the realm.†He said looking at the two guards then back at Hirohito “you should have remembered who I am cousin.†He said his eyes wild but his anger growing as the two guards did not move. “Are you also traitors? Arrest this man!†He demanded but neither moved instead they remained ready their attention on Hirohito.
“The Coordinator has taken unwell, he needs to rest, please escort him to his quarters and keep him there. Ensure his wife makes her way there alive and well.†He commanded immediately the warriors moved before the surprised Coordinator could react they grabbed his arms and began to drag him out of the room.
“YOU CANNOT DO THIS HIROHITO, I AM THE DRAGON!â€
“I must, the Dragon must survive†Hirohito replied as his cousin and liege lord was dragged away. Quickly and silently supporters of Akira inside the Imperial City were eliminated by those loyal to the new Warlord of the Draconis Combine.
-
Sceptre (Sceptre-class Strike Cruiser)
Orkney, Taurian Concordat
9th February 3111
The ‘Battle for Orkney’ had been a short one when the Sceptre had arrived in the system they had encountered the Pandora’s Wrath Mercenary Battalion who had refused Star Captain Gerry Harper’s call to surrender. A salvo of fire from the Sceptre’s main weapons array had shattered the mercenary JumpShip and its attached DropShips consigning them to death in the cold vacuum.
The Sceptre had moved over Orkney detaching the Konstantin and the captured Leopard, Harbin, to the planet’s surface commanded by Stefan Banacek. Within hours the local militia had been completely destroyed and the planet’s leadership had agreed to turn over the supplies that the Sceptre demanded unfortunately they had little that could be used to attempt any repairs to the Sceptre herself.
Gerry Harper was in his quarters when Stefan Banacek returned to the ship. The MechWarrior entered the WarShip commander’s main room planting himself on a chair with a smug smile on his face. “Why are you so happy?†Gerry Harper asked
“Because I’ve made your day†Banacek replied producing a small digital pad which he placed on the table his casual use of contractions annoyed Harper but the man had his uses.
“Care to elaborate?†He asked picking up the pad glancing at it and then back towards Banacek.
“On that pad is data relating to the Taurian Concordat’s shipyard in the Sterope system†he replied “including entry codes to get past the sentries and access the warehouses.â€
“Impressive details†he said looking at the pad “unfortunately the Sceptre is quite hard to hide.â€
“Which is why we use the Harbin to get past the sentries and infiltrate the facility.†He suggested “your Elementals are well trained and could overwhelm any defence that the Taurians could throw up. They take them out and blind their sensors allowing Sceptre to close and we take what we need.â€
“I am sure they will have naval defences tooâ€
“Not enough†Banacek said smirking again as Harper continued to think as a Raven warrior “unlike the Succession States and Clans the periphery nations do not have massive naval forces you can take out what you need to and use what Sceptre needs to conduct repairs.â€
“They wouldn’t suspect it†Harper suggested as Banacek rose from his chair moving around behind Harper “and we could gain exactly what we need.†He said as Banacek removed the pad from his hands and slipped down onto Harper’s lap.
“Exactly what we need†he said leaning in and kissing the Sceptre’s commander while the ship had its needs so did its crew.
Counter-offensive
Kaznejoy Prefecture, Military District of Midway
Draconis Combine
14th February 3111
Only days after the announcement of two new Dragonlords commands to be raised on Haynesville and Broaddus the First through to the Fourth Regiments launch attacks on the worlds of Damevang and McGehee. Supporting the four regiments was the FSS Sword and Sun, one of the Federated Suns gigantic Mercury-class Battleships, this support was immediately tested in the Damevang system when it encountered the Kyushu-class DCS Karpin and the Sixth Yokosuka SNLF Regiment. Neither the Kyushu or its attached LAM regiment are any match for the Sword and Sun and the vessel is quickly destroyed while nearly a battalion of the Sixth Yokosuka are forced to surrender under the guns of the Mercury’s aerospace fighters.
With their local naval support eliminated the First and Second Dragonlords land on Damevange assaulting the Twentieth Ghost Regiment while the Third and Fourth Dragonlords launch attacks on McGehee assaulting the Second Ghost Regiment. At double combined-arms strength the Dragonlords prove too strong for the two Ghost Regiments overwhelming them on both worlds liberating Damevang and McGehee from DCMS forces.
Vision Quest
Tost, Tukayyid
Independent Clan Territory
20th February 3111
With a call for all of the Khans to attend a Grand Council meeting on Tukayyid Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cat Clan had chosen to spend his time wisely in a Vision Quest. For the better part of a month he had travelled across the world of Tukayyid leaning more about its culture and the people who lived there but not finding the correct place to begin his quest. To begin a warrior’s Vision Quest they needed to be right in body and mind which meant that the place mattered as much as the journey.
In the last fifty years Tukayyid had seen perhaps some of the largest changes in modern history of any world. It had gone from an Inner Sphere stronghold during the Clan war, a place where one massive battle essentially ended the invasion, to a Clan stronghold and centre of the Clans’ Inner Sphere politics and some of the biggest Clan factories outside those that had been built in the Homeworlds. The city of Tost had been a target of the Nova Cats during the Battle of Tukayyid unfortunately the ComGuards had out manoeuvred the Clan in that battle as they had most of the other Clans. Now five decades later the city was nearly completely changed a growing metropolis with more than five million inhabitants all Clan.
Walking around the city Canin Rosse had felt at ease dressed in the duty uniform of a Nova Cat warrior there was little to no chance of him being threatened by any of the lower castes and any warrior would recognize his insignia and who he was, a Khan, and think better of causing an issue. He had been taking in the city of Tost for the whole day and was yet to find anything that would mark a place to begin a vision quest. He had been certain that with this cities history with his Clan that it would be the place to begin.
Turning down a darkened alley Rosse continued without thinking of what could threaten him. About halfway down the alley he noticed that the lights were either faulty or had been switched off intentional and he heard an angry snarl from behind him. Turning quickly Rosse was stunned to see a nova cat standing on all four paws its main at attention as if it were ready for a fight. “Easy there†he said to the animal backing off slightly suddenly there was another snarl behind him twisting he saw another nova cat before he could react the two animals leapt at each other beginning a ferocious duel Rosse could not believe what he was seeing these two animals belonged far from the city and yet here they were fighting over nothing. The nova cat was a territorial animal but they did not make their homes in the city instead they preferred wide open spaces where they could hunt down their prey Canin knew there were animals on Tukayyid, he’d seen to their introduction personally, but he also knew that this was not where they should be.
Moving backwards away from them he heard yet another snarl this time however he knew it could not be real as the face of a dragon seemed to grow from the stone wall. Above there was a screech of a raven as it circled above while it was almost like the ground had turned to water and a sea fox ‘swam’ in circles below. His attention was brought back to the two nova cats who continued to fight becoming weaker all the time as the other predators closed in on them. “What am I supposed to do?†He asked out aloud to no-one in particular “to allow Nova Cats to abandon my Clan does not make me a good leader. To force them to live by something they do not believe will only lead to more trouble in the future. I am stuck between dealing with this now or dooming my people’s future to one of uncertainty.†He snapped angrily as the two nova cats appeared to take him on and stopped their fighting. One stepped forwards and as it did it transformed into a winged cat like those that Katrine Devalis had described encountering in the Occupation Zone he couldn’t remember their given name but he remembered that Katrine had nicknamed them the Lynx. Now together the Nova Cat and Lynx duelled the other predators that were massing around them knocking back to raven, sea fox and dragon. Beyond these immediate threats other predators seemed to be waiting but standing side-by-side the two cats faced down each threat. “So I should embrace this change?†Canin said out aloud watching them fight “and approach them as a potential ally of the future.†He wondered he knew that he and Katrine Devalis would never be friends however he also knew that her people would always be linked to his own and that even if they were allowed to create their own Clan that the other Clans would always be threatened by the links they and the Nova Cats held. “Whatever happens we’ll always be the same people…†he whispered almost to himself dropping all sense of Clan standards as the visions disappeared and Canin saw a lower castemen standing looking at him strangely.
“Are you alright sir?â€
“Aff, continue about your duties†he said taking one last look around the alley before heading back onto the main street.
Border conflict
Isle of Skye/Wolf Empire
22nd February 3111
In an effort to reclaim lost territory and test its neighbour the Isle of Skye Provincial Command deploys the Eighteenth Isle of Skye Guards and the First Tamar Cavaliers to Gacrux and Milton. With each of the regiments the Isle of Skye deploy two WarShips to provide security against Wolf naval assets.
In the Gacrux system the WarShips the LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood and LCS Dundee engage the Razor Teeth, the Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser, which was defending the system. While the direct fire Heavy Naval Particle Cannons of the Hood and the Naval Lasers of the Dundee are too much for the single Heavy Cruiser the vessel’s multiple capital and sub-capital missiles prove too much for the anti-missile systems on the two ships causing heavy damage to the Razor Teeth and they cripple the Dundee proving the vessels’ defences are not up to scratch for modern combat.
On the ground the First Tamar Cavaliers Regiment encounter elements of the Fifth Wolf Regulars Cluster who do not have the numbers or the firepower to counter the Skye forces and quickly the world is liberated. Unfortunately, the battle on Milton does not go as well the Isle of Skye forces encounter elite and veteran forces of the Mountain Wolf Guards and despite the Clan Mountain Wolf’s former loyalties to the Lyran they fall on the Eighteenth Isle of Skye Guards from multiple sides boxing them in and forcing them back to their DropShips.
With air superiority in Lyran hands of the three regiments involved in the attack on Milton two regiments of ground troops are able to escape the firepower laid on them from the two Wolf Clusters. From orbit the commanders of the Lyran WarShips are unwilling to burn the surface of Milton instead they escort the remains of the Eighteenth clear of the system and back into Lyran territory.
Mail Run, Silverdale
Alshian, Alshian Province
Rasalhague Dominion
24th February 3111
After more than half a year as a bondsman to the Rasalhague Dominion Morgan Ghost Bear had been trusted by Khan Michael Hawkins to run the mail through the city of Silverdale on the world of Alshian. He had been given command of a Ceres-Bikes Flashbang ZZ10000 motorcycle for the mission Morgan had no idea how a motorcycle popular in the Capellan Confederation had made its way to Alshian but he was quite happy with the machine it wasn’t a BattleMech but it was nice and nimble and capable of over one hundred and sixty kilometres per hour on Silverdale’s unrestricted motorways. Now in the heart of the city he was reduced in speed but it was still an enjoyable experience riding the bike through the traffic of Silverdale avoiding larger civilian and military vehicles he remembered how his father Archer Christifori had refused to allow him to purchase one when he was younger and how after all these years it was nice to live out a childhood fantasy.
Stopping outside the main mail office of Silverdale City he got up off of the motorcycle and removed the box from the back of the vehicle and headed into the facility. With his military grade jump suit and the white bondcord around his wrist he was able to skip to the front of the mailing queue handing over the package which went into a scanner without a word from the lowercasteman behind the desk he was handed a receipt slip and he headed outside back towards his bike.
“Impressive machine Herr Christifori†a male voice asked from behind turning Morgan saw a young man dressed in what looked like gym clothing standing nearby.
“Who are you?†Morgan asked looking around to see if there were any Ghost Bear military personnel near by.
“A friend who can get you off this planet†the man said handing over a small piece of paper on it was an address. “If you turn up there within the hour we can have you off the planet and home within the year.â€
“I have accepted…†he began to say but the man was already running off. Morgan crossed the paved area and deposited the paper into a litter bin “I am a Ghost Bear†he muttered to himself getting back on the bike turning back towards Alpha Galaxy’s Command base.
Facility inseption
Saxo City, Baxter Island
New Canton, Star League Protectorate
26th February 3111
While he had been elected the new First Lord at the most recent Whitting Conference Bannister Cameron was still the leader of the Star League Protectorate and inspecting new facilities was part of the job. Standing at the front of the auditorium he looked out over the class of new cadets who would train and study at the facilities on Baxter Island. Though a civilian facility Star League Intelligence would also benefit from the facilities taking the best and offering them positions in the various divisions of the Star League Intelligence Corps. “These facilities will add to those already here on New Canton adding to the future education this world and many others within the Star League Protectorate.†He began gaining much applause “it is important that we add to the future of our Protectorate and to all nations of the Star League…†He said suddenly outside the building an unmarked van exploded as it was primarily a civilian building there was only light commercial grade reinforcements supporting the face of the building which crumpled as it was struck by the explosion causing the entire face of the building to collapse with the floors above compressing on top of the floor below.
Despite a five-day search of the building using civilian and military assets First Lord Bannister Cameron was found buried under the rubble his ribcage crushed and with multiple organs damaged he was pronounced dead at the scene the news of his death passed quickly through the Protectorate with the Protectorate’s Council taking interim control until a new leader could be elected. Although there is no evidence supporting the claim a Capellan Confederation sponsored group claims responsibility for the bombing. They claim to have targeted the facility and the imperialistic expansion of the Star League Defence Force but that the death of Bannister Cameron was an added bonus for their cause. One of the Protectorate Council’s first actions was to command that the Star League Intelligence Command and Special Armed Service Intelligence Branch work to eradicate these threats.
-
Into march my thanks for Marauder for taking us into the Hell's Horses OZ and onto the Capellan Confederation border
Training exercise, 47th Combat Supernova (Freeborn)
Training Ranges, Graceland
Hell’s Horses OZ, Inner Sphere
1st March 3111
The bivouac was at a wartime setting, as was only fitting for an exercise but that didn’t mean there couldn’t be some of the comforts of home. Whilst the tank crews dug slit trenches and set up for the night, the cooks were already setting up a tent to start preparing the first truly hot meal the tankers would have had for several days after living inside their tanks for the duration. Now in a rear area they could finally drain their waste tanks, stretch their legs properly and get some real food into them that wasn’t quick heat rations.
Although it was dark the outlines of the Forty-seventh’s vehicles could still be seen, a mix bag of Mithras, Zorya and Ares tanks with a trio of Hachiman’s for fire support. The Scout tanks were several kilometres away with their own support detachment and were already getting ready to bed down for the night.
The men and women of the Forty-seventh CSN were all tired and hungry, with many coming fresh from their training after Trials of Position to be selected for the Touman it was still a wake-up call. The Supernova’s Commander, a Trueborn that had accepted command of the unit rather than face being put into another Caste before the exercise had promised they would all hate him by the end of it and he wasn’t wrong. He believed very firmly in the theory that mud, blood and tears in training made for better Warriors in combat, and he wanted to see what the keen if very green Freeborns were capable of.
And so had followed three days of Status 1 Conditional training. Three days without rest, with constant attacks and movements, river crossings, navigation exercises as well as infantry tactics for dismounted crews. Here the Forty-seventh’s attached Freeborn Elemental had been more than willing to be the OpFor against the tank crews and the Medics had to set more than a few dislocated shoulders or help with concussions.
But through it all, the Forty-seventh was pulling together. The crew came from across Horse territory, some were periphery folks, others from former Lyran worlds and after winning their Trials of position and having undergone further tests and medical exams were then put into the meat grinder of a six-month long training program that was designed to weed out the weak. If half a class passed, it was a surprise. The recruits would then be sent out to Garrison worlds along the core ward frontier or interior worlds to help lessen the load on Second line forces.
Whilst they were very much tertiary forces given older equipment that was rotated out of other units, there was still pride with what they did.
“Star Commander Steven, message for you from HQ. ‘All elements are to stand down from exercise. Maintenance protocols are to be enacted upon return to barracks. Inform your forces that you have all performed adequately and should be commended.â€
“How nice of him to say so...the order didn’t say when we had to move out?â€
“No... err Neg Sir.â€
“We’re not enforcing battle-comms now, and very good, dawn is in six hours, we’ll eat up, and get some rest. I don’t want to have us driving through town with the drivers falling asleep at the wheel.â€
“Roger that Sir.â€
Before the Star Captain could even salute there was a rather audible curse from the messing tent and heated voices. Inside one tired looking tanker was looking down at his mess tin, and glaring daggers at the cook. “Alright, what is going on here?†He demanded looking between them.
“Nothing Sir.†The cook said quickly, a bit too quickly
“So you are just yelling at one another for no reason?â€
“I may have made a mistake...â€
“May!?†The tanker interjected. “You bloody well did!â€
Star Captain Steven suppressed a sigh. “Okay Warrior Jones, what is it?â€
“That… person… put my desert into my meal tin.â€
The Star Captain glanced down, the mess tin was full of a thick, sloppy mess, a fine mixture of beef and vegetable stew, as well as a healthy serving of rhubarb crumble. The desert mess tin was empty. An easy mistake to make in the dark.
“Oh… well enjoy your sweetmeat whilst we get you some more real food. And we are all tired, but we are going back to base and the Star Captain has authorized 48 hours rest and relaxation for all crews and personnel. And after all Warrior, it all comes out the same way…â€
Pleased that one Trial of Grievance had been diffused, Star Commander Steven grabbed his own mess tins, fortunately not full of the main meal and desert and retreated to the warmth of the Indra that was the unit’s Communications vehicle.
These training exercises were of even more importance as it emerged that Clan Jade Falcon had declared a harvest trial against the Hell’s Horses with the Jade Falcons adding conditions to the battles demanding that should they be victorious then the Horses will turn over four clusters of like minded crusader warriors to them. Fighting on the planets of New Extford and Bountiful Harvest despite stiff odds put up by the Horses the skill of the battle-hardened Falcons nets them both worlds and the warriors that they desire. In order to meet the agreement, they made with the Falcons without destroying any of their units the Horses fight trials of position across their Touman with the losers being transferred into the Falcon Touman. Several of the younger trueborns demand a chance to join the aggressive clan.
Twilight Princess (Fesnyng-class DropShip)
Galatea Station, Galatea
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
5th March 3111
Colonel Burt Korbin stood on the bridge of his brand-new Fesnyng-class DropShip, the Twilight Princess, alongside his son Hermann as it approached the Galatea Station the primary mercenary hiring hub in the Inner Sphere. The Bradford family had moved heaven and earth and had the DropShip delivered to them on the way to Galatea with the Bradford family picking up the delivery bill. It had been sad to see the Hammerfall removed from the Kommando's ranks but time moved on and so did the unit. The Twilight Princess was the only known Fesnyng in private hands and it had come courtesy of the Bradford Family putting in a good word for the Kommandos with the Lyran Military Quartermasters now they approached Galatea Station on the last leg of their rearmament before taking their contract with the Lyran military.
“We could do without taking on the dregs from here.†Hermann said, he wasn’t convinced they needed recruits from the station instead he’d be happy to see the unit regain its strength naturally by recruiting from the worlds they were garrisoned on. They had the spare Mechs after Erdvynn they just needed some warriors and natural talent may be better than dispossessed.
“We need aerospace fighter pilots and planes†Burt pointed out the Fesnyng had six aerospace fighter cubicles all of which were empty at present. “We can’t afford to buy them nor do I expect to recruit them while on station.â€
“Knightwatch and Pit Bull still have their aerospace fighters†Hermann pointed out mentioning their other two DropShips. Suddenly up ahead of the DropShip there was several explosions on the hull of the Galatea Station.
“Explosion in quadrant 14 on the station, two hull breaches, we have Mechs on the hull! Station CIC is warning all incoming traffic off,†The sensor operator said in the compact bridge.
“Communications send a message to the WarShip Subtlety and to the Station’s CIC inform them that we had nothing to do with the attack but that we are on station and ready to assist.†Burt Korbin commanded springing into action “Hermann, rally the troops anything with jump jets and all of the aerospace fighters get them in the air.†He commanded his son as the bridge crew of the Twilight Princess moved into action from behind the ship the unit’s Assault Triumph and Union deployed their eight aerospace fighters awaiting the command to get involved.
“Sir, the Station’s CIC reports that their internal defences are driving the raiders towards the rear of the station if we can cut them off they want to capture as many alive as possible.†The communication’s officer reported.
“Pass to the landing team, Leutenant Harkin, move us over the station and prepare to deploy BattleMechs.â€
“Affirmative sir†the young man replied as the Fesnyng began to respond moving over the massive station from the underside of the DropShip two Warhammers, a Pillager, the unit’s Summoner and Stealth OmniMechs jumped onto the station’s hull. As they did an Aurora-class DropShip blasted it’s way clear of its dock and began making its way to open space.
“Contact Bravo Two inform him to stop their BattleMechs we will go after the DropShip have all aerospace fighters follow us.†Burt Korbin commanded he was sure his son would be fine without him watching over him and with Pit Bull closing in they were about to be reinforced by additional BattleMechs leaving the pirates with little choice buy to surrender.
Meanwhile in a space chase it was quickly turning into a one-sided affair as the Fesnyng out paced the Aurora and now had its heavy gauss rifles and long-range missiles locked onto the other ship. “Command their surrender†Korbin commanded leaning into the chair on the bridge while he was not a spacer it was his unit and taking temporary command of the DropShip felt quite nice. In response to his commands gauss rifle and laser fire scored hits on the Fesnyng leading to Korbin shaking his head he had no idea what they had planned to accomplish here today but this particular raid had been a bust. “Weapons disable them if you can otherwise destroy them.†He said the forward weapons array of the Twilight Princess cut into the rear armour of the Aurora ripping open the hull of the vessel. “Repeat our command for them to surrender†Korbin commanded watching the results of his weapons on the Aurora the Fesnyng’s sensors showing that the vessel’s engineering deck was entirely exposed to the vacuum.
“Signal from Aurora they have given their surrender.â€
“Move us into position and deploy marines†Korbin said as the Twilight Princess turned the DropShip’s advanced weapons locked on the vessel as Battle Armoured marines jumped from the craft landing on the hull of the DropShip. Quickly the Kommando’s marines forced their way into the Aurora securing the vessel’s surrender.
The Aurora’s crew and the surviving MechWarrior were handed over to Lyran Intelligence with the Kommando’s display on the hull of Galatea Station and their performance in capturing the Aurora won many applications which would keep Korbin’s busy for weeks dealing with recruitment. As a thank you for their efforts in assisting the station the commanders the captured Osprey and enough salvage and parts to rebuild a Phoenix Hawk. During their time on Galatea Station the Kommandos are able to hire five MechWarriors three to pilot the salvaged Erdvynn BattleMechs and two pilots with their own BattleMechs a Cadaver and a Hunchback 7X reinforcing their numbers significantly.
Border Raid
Indicass, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th March 3111
“All units, advance!â€
On that barked order over the radio the barrage started. Concealed Mechs with LRMs began volleying salvo after salvo from their launchers whilst stealth armour equipped snipers waited for targets to pop up or be designated by the scouts.
Elements of the Twenty-second Liao Lancers, the Hustaing Lancers, and the First Battalion of House Dai Da Chi had landed on the Suns world of Indicass and had caught the Second St Ives Janissaries RCT flat footed as their DropShips landed. The Suns unit still contested the air battle, with neither sides Aerospace assets being able to contribute much to the battle on the ground.
Falling back to defences round the Spaceport General Nai Poidatz had ordered his forces to dig in whilst the Capellans probed for an avenue of attack. The Spaceport was the objective of the raid, full of fuel and ammunition from the worlds refineries and factories, seizing or destroying them would affect the logistics of units across some half a dozen worlds.
San-be-bing Yung watched the frontal assault with a cold eye on his Dola’s HUD. He could see the green icons signifying the Warriors of his House waiting whilst the Lances of the Hustaing Lancers threw themselves at the Davion defenders. All they needed was a gap and then they would plunge into It, levering open the Davion line and shatter their formation.
Yung’s Lance however was hunting other prizes. His Dola equipped unit had managed to sneak in from the south, landed by their Dropship a few days earlier and seemingly forgotten during the fire and fury of the battles to the east near the Starport. Each Dola’s powerful Angel ECM had thus far shielded them from detection whilst also letting them pick up the signals they were hunting. Blurts of communication static, all heavily encrypted, but all pointing towards the location of their prey.
Each Dola had been painted in the camo scheme of the Second St Ives Janissaries, not that it would fool a Mechwarrior but so far it had worked in fooling civilians moving away from the battle area, no one had thought to report a unit of four Mech’s that had come out of the highlands and were now sprinting through the city.
“Sunrise, this is Blackout… shopping list is complete, sending you the bill now.â€
“Sunrise acknowledged. Change ready on your signal.â€
It was the first major radio contact between the infiltration lance and their HQ since they’d landed. With the Angel’s jamming in place it would have been hard for anyone who was listening in to get a fix on the signal.
But someone was listening in, and they had detected an unknown transmission from nearby and the Suns HQ Security detachment went to full alert. The CO running to his Mech from the small office block that was serving as the HQ for the Second Janissaries as they coordinated the battle.
Miles away a pair of artillery missile carrying Pillagers halted their advance as they received a target and firing order. Both assault Mech’s quickly thumped out a quartet of missiles before resuming their advance as the Dai Da Chi custom built Ti Ts’ang’s thundered past at full speed.
Yung grinned as his target came into sight, the Davion HQ building was lightly guarded, just a few squads of infantry and some emplaced weapons. And of course, their quarry’s ride, a black and blue Atlas AS8-D but Yung cursed as he saw the big machine step forwards and swing round to target his lance, its RAC already spinning up.
And then the world turned into one of smoke and fire as eight Arrow missiles slammed down around the HQ compound. Some were standard HE rounds with impact fused warheads, others showered huge gouts of burning white phosphorous and anti-personnel bomblets turning the block into a sea of explosions, smoke and fire. Yung’s Dola rocked as if in a storm, the worryingly loud sound of fragments and debris clanging off his Mech’s body very loud in the cramped cockpit despite the firestorm consuming the world around him. But, as suddenly as it started, the storm of explosions came to a stop. The building was gone, all that was left was dust choked rubble and smoke, the HQ was a ruin, little shapes of dead troops were barely visible in the dust and smoke, but the Atlas still stood. Its right arm was a mangled ruin and it was scarred and smoking from the hail of cluster munitions but it still stood. Then it fired and Yung’s good friend and fellow warrior Tseng was smashed onto his back by the brutes snub-nosed PPC and lasers.
The three standing Dola’s surged forwards towards the smoking Atlas and it stormed forwards to greet them.
With the literal decapitation of their HQ the Second Janissaries was forced to fall back. The Capellan attackers turned the withdrawal into a rout but halted once they had secured the resources they had come to claim. As the Davion forces regrouped and called for support the Capellan DropShips moved position, picking up their troops, the salvage and loot as well as any prisoners who would be handed over to Maskrovia upon return to Capellan Space. But in an act of spite, the Capellans also destroyed the starport facilities, leaving demolition charges and booby traps amongst the wreckage of the starport that would claim the lives of dozens of Davion troops and civilians during the clean-up.
The raid on Indicass was just one of three carried out, all were short, sharp and violent, with the Capellan’s choosing to hit logistics hubs, supply depots and communication facilities. On Ambergrist the Durro dam was destroyed and crippled the power across a quarter of the planet and the town of Winchester downstream was utterly destroyed. The Garrison defending Uraven managed to stop the Capellan forces from destroying their mines but could not stop them torching petroleum facilities and starting a raging forest fire that took two weeks to get fully under control. The fire devastated the planets huge crop fields which badly affected the harvest and would cause shortages on worlds that were less bountiful and more dependent on imports.
Operation KIDNEY SHOT was viewed as a success and further quick strikes were already being planned.
Storm Fall, Aurora-class DropShip
Von Stang’s World, Periphery
25th March 3111
The Aurora-class DropShip was one of the most adaptable ever launched in the Inner Sphere some even went so far as to call the ship an Omni-Dropship the Storm Fall was indictive of this and instead of the BattleMech pods the ship normally carried the vessel was full of electronics and equipment for intelligence gathering. Disguised as a trade ship the Storm Fall had been sent to Von Strang’s World which was located in the periphery between the Clan occupation zones and Chainlane Isles with the intent on setting up an Intelligence post to watch the Clans from this now unclaimed space.
Agent Rob Bowman walked through on of the DropShip’s corridors when an alarm sounded throughout the ship. Breaking into a run he headed for the command bridge he saw the ship’s commanding officer Captain Amardad El Sorbat who stood looking at the monitors Rob followed her eyes to the monitors and saw what she had seen the DropShip was entirely surrounded by BattleMechs, Armour and Infantry “oh hellâ€
“An understatement Agent Bowman†the dark-skinned captain said her voice was deep but quite soothing.
“I assume our point defence guns will not stop them?†She shook her head the Storm Fall had a superior number of concealed weapons than a standard Aurora but still they were currently at a standstill and with the firepower arrayed against them would cripple the ship. “Signal our surrender, Captain, we are going to need to talk our way out of this one.â€
-----------
Several hours later after a less than civil interrogation, but a less violent one than he had expected, Bowman was escorted through the corridors of one of the main military buildings on Von Strang’s World and into one of the main meeting halls. Looking around at the spartanly decorated room Bowman’s eyes were drawn to the “throne†which had been restored to its pirate-era splendored since the withdrawal of Clan forces. When he noticed that the guards had withdrawn he began to make his way around the room before one of the side doors opened and in entered a man wearing a dark grey business suit, a navy open collared shirt and short brown hair. “Good Afternoon Agent Bowman†he said extending his hand to shake Rob’s “I am Khan Richard Andersonâ€
“Khan?†He said carefully he’d seen that the people of Von Strang’s World held onto many of the clan trappings that were previously instilled when the world was occupied but he had no idea that they had also kept hold of the ranking.
“Aff, I am leader of this world†he said seeing Bowman’s eyes flit over the throne “it was restored as it is part of our history but I am no pirate Agent Bowman.†He explained “the Clans may have left this world but they have left it improved from when they invaded.â€
“Understoodâ€
“As a result, your crew and your intelligence team will be released from captivity at the earliest convenience.†Anderson said bringing a stunned reaction from Bowman. “We will be keeping your DropShip and its equipment as a ransom for your release†he said continuing. “We will book you on a commercial JumpShip which will take you back to the Commonwealth it should be around in about a month’s time.†Anderson said continuing “until then you and your crew are free to mingle with the population of this world and see what we are building here. I will warn you now do not cause problems for us or you will be dealt with harshly. You are free to go.†He said turning away from Bowman before stopping and turning back towards Bowman “one last thing Agent Bowman can you pass to your leaders that this world and its system are off limits to your kind. You are not welcome here Vong Strang’s World belongs to Clan Strang and we will resist occupation by any other.†He said before dismissing Bowman once more this time he didn’t stop Rob Bowman leave the room or the facility. Over the course of the next two months the Lyran crew and Intelligence operatives learned much about Von Strang’s World and they learned that Khan Anderson’s words were not a show but instead the world had adopted Clan culture completely. At an arranged time as they were promised they were escorted to a waiting DropShip and sent off planet back towards the Lyran Commonwealth.
Trial of Position, Forbidden City
Strabo, Outpost 27
Stone Spirit Space, Periphery
31st March 3111
In the centre of the Forbidden City clone on the Stone Spirit’s capital of Strabo standing over the body of his opponent the Stone Spirit Warrior glanced up and looked at the surrounding warriors. He had been born a freeborn to two Elemental parents giving him the build of one of the genetically bred warriors even though he was a MechWarrior by profession. He was well muscled and had short blonde hair in the Inner Sphere he’d be a poster starlet for military recruitment. “Eli Furey, I am Khan on the Stone Spirits†he declared looking a them demanding someone to challenge his victory over their previous leader. “We have spent too long fighting with the Rim Collection and Lyran Commonwealth, we are getting nowhere against them without more resources. We must turn our attention on the Barrens and use them to add to our numbers. We will rebuild our Touman and take the fight to those that threaten us.†He said looking down at the body of Tor McFadden the Stone Spirit’s former commander “those that came before me did not fail us, they were just fighting to turn us into something that we are not, we are Clan life goes on.†He said walking away from the arena.
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Time for another big update with contributions from myself, James Tanaga (Lyran/Buena bit) and welcoming back Blackhorse 6 (Federated Suns)
Meeting Room, Complex A1
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
7th May 3111
Like many who had visited the underground city that served as the Mountain Wolf capital on Gallery Duke Robert Lunius was in awe of what he was seeing but also saw the oppetunity that the Archon had spoken of, the city was sparsely populated since the rest of the Clan abandoned the Lyran Commonwealth. Lunius was not convinced that this course of action was the best one but the weapons coming out of the Gallery had convinced the Archon that the remaining Mountain Wolves could be trusted. He was led into a meeting room and saw someone waited for him he was tall with short brown hair that was beginning to grey slightly he had a goatee that was also beginning to show signs of grey.
“I am Duke Robert Linius of Halfway representing Archon Jessica Steiner. You are not Star Colonel Daniela Wolf†Linius said realizing he’d pointed out the obvious after he had spoken.
“Neg, I am not, I am Scientist General Riko Danvers and I lead the scientists of the Mountain Wolves. Star Colonel Daniela Wolf is commanding our forces as they train on the southern continent she has authorized me to speak on behalf of the Mountain Wolves, please sit Duke Lunius.â€
“I had heard that you had formed a third cluster.†Lunius admitted sitting opposite the Scientist General “which leads me to the reason I am here Archon Steiner is aware of the facilities that you have here and the excess accommodation that is available in this city and the other settlements the Mountain Wolves have.â€
“It is no secret that we have a smaller Touman and population than before†he said “but we are still committed to supporting the Lyran Commonwealth in anyway we can.â€
“I am aware of your commitments Scientist General and the Archon appreciates your people’s work. The weapon shipments and medical research alone has been very useful.†He said “however we think that we could help make more out of what you have here on Gallery. With the Clans continuously threatening our borders and the recent break of the Son Hou Theatre there has been a wave of refugees who wish to remain Lyran citizens but have been displaced. The Archon and I believe that Gallery with its facilities already constructed could be one place that could take many?â€
“Affirmative Duke Lunius†Danvers replied after a moment’s hesitation “we could accommodate many given time to prepare the facilities, we have mothballed many that were not in use, if they are willing to work then we could possibly also bring further factories and research facilities online.â€
“The Archon had the same thought†Lunius said seeing that the Scientist had quickly picked up on the Lyran thinking. “We wish for your people to thrive within the Commonwealth if you are able to accommodate these citizens and provide them with a safe environment and work the Archon has authorized me to increase shipments of raw materials and supplies to your facilities.â€
“We already barely use all of them that are already provided to us, Duke Lunius, perhaps you could hold onto what you were ready to provide for now and we will request them when we are ready.†Danvers said smiling he was sure that the Duke was happy to see him appreciate what the Lyrans were doing for the Wolves but the real reason for the smile was his own.
“If you are sure? There are others within the Commonwealth in need of resources.â€
“Then they should get them†Danvers said knowing that it would be music to Lunius’ ears. “The Mountain Wolves will make do with what we have until we are ready for more.†He said “I know the Lyran state will provide when it is ready and able to.†He said playing along with the man’s desires “we will be ready within the month to take in some of the refugees.â€
“I am very glad to hear this†Lunius said rising from his chair as Danvers did “I will contact the Archon as soon as I am able and make her aware of the Mountain Wolves continued commitment.†He said reaching out and shaking Danvers hand. Soon after the Duke left and not long after Scientist Elda Beckett entered the room.
“You heard?†He asked she nodded she had been listening into their conversation from another room. “We will need to move some of our research quickly I do not want Lyran refugees stumbling over our advances.â€
“Yes, Scientist General it will not take long to move the supplies.†She said remaining standing “with additional bodies available we could move to the second phase of testing of our drugs program.â€
“Agreed but only in small amounts we have already had a greater fail rate here than the test subjects in the Homeworlds ever displayed.†Danvers warned their drugs program was advanced but some was still risky.
“These refugees have been forced from their worlds their immune systems are already weakened Scientist General should some die once they have reached their new habitat how can any blame be placed on our shoulders?†Beckett pointed out her question clearly rhetorical. “We can only do what we can.â€
“Yes, I agree, but we still must be careful. Lyran Intelligence has one hundred different things to keep an eye on at present we do not need to make item one hundred-and-one on their list.â€
“Of course not, Scientist General, we have already shown we can be trusted. We will continue to be an important part of House Steiner’s development.â€
Ciudad del Mar, Buena
Buena Archonette, Lyran Commonwealth
Inner Sphere
10th May, 3111
Archonette Kathy Parks smiled as the graduating class of the Buena College of War celebrated, many alongside family members. In her fifty-five years past military service and now current public service as Archonette of the Buena Archonette, she had witnessed the scene many a time, yet it never got old. She watched the future of the Lyran Commonwealth in pride as her old eyes as her special guest stood beside her.
“You can go visit your son and family, you know,†Kathy informed the younger woman.
“I doubt the Archon’s allowance allows me to get lost in the crowd,†was the disgruntled rejoinder. She nodded privately to herself. Colonel Kelly Varnay was seemingly here on Buena on leave to celebrate her son’s graduation from the Buena College of War.
It was a mockery, as far as Kathy was concerned. The newly-graduated Lieutenant Richard Varnay had been relocated here to Buena, in concert with the rest of his family. She felt for him. He was far from his friends at the Coventry Military Academy. Officially, the young man was here as a visiting student. Unofficially, it was a move by Jessica to get control over the public spectacle that had engulfed her refusal to use the First Fesnyng in the past few months. Kelly shook her head, yet understood her former friend. The Archon would not risk, or be publicly preserved to be risking, her uncle’s life in the hands of a Varnay while Victor Steiner-Davion remained in the Lyran Commonweath the First Fesnyng would remain as far from him as possible. Colonel Varnay’s loyalty was not in question but the trouble the media could create by using her image and name was trouble that Jessica Steiner could not afford.
A moment passed as both woman watched the ongoing celebration. “What’s your analysis on the current border situation concerning the Archonette, Colonel?â€
“If this is your attempt to distract me over my current situation, you’re failing, Archonette,†was Kelly Varnay’s gruff reply, causing the older woman to shake her head.
“I still would like to know your opinion on the matter, Colonel. I know that you are on leave but I need all my resources to keep the Archonette from imploding right now. If that means, I have to use you, I will,†was Kathy’s own reply.
The older woman smiled as she heard the other sigh. “The expected merging of Erdvynn Province into the Collection should keep the Rim Collection distracted for a long while. From the reports, I gather the Collection is rapidly building its naval forces and preparing for war against the Circinus Federation.â€
Kathy nodded. “That is my own belief as well. Any suggestions on how to deal with that? The Rim Collection cannot lose that conflict over a longer period and should they take the Circinus Federation, it’ll weaken us politically.â€
The Archonette noted the shadow of Kelly Varnay shrug. “Your forces don’t have the manpower to muscle in on the situation and the Estates Generals will not divert resources from the Clan borders to support you. You really want my suggestion?â€
Kathy turned her head to glance at the younger officer. “What is it?â€
“Make a coalition with the Rim Collection, the Southwest Covenant Worlds, and perhaps the Free Worlds League’s District of Lothario against the Circinus Federation,†Kelly Varnay succinctly replied. “We already lost the Circinus Federation. We should instead be working to minimize the loss by forcing the Rim Collection to border the Free Worlds League. At the same time, however, we need to make inroads with the Southwest Covenant Worlds and try to get them to re-join the Commonwealth or at least keep them from allying themselves with other foreign powers.â€
“Interesting,†Kathy muttered allowed, weighing the pros and cons of Kelly Varnay’s suggestion in her head as her eyes caught sight of the colonel’s family approaching them, the Free Worlds League was a Star League ally the distrust from the Succession Wars was not something that should hold them back. “I would like an in-depth report on your suggestion after the weekend, Colonel,†she informed the younger woman, causing her to turn her head sharply to Kathy’s direction.
“With respect Archonette, I am on leave and not under your chain of command,†she grizzled out as her family arrived, causing Kathy to turn and face the younger officer for the first time in their conversation.
“Enjoy your weekend, Colonel. And if there is a report on my desk by Wednesday, you may find yourself promoted to be my new chief-of-staff. If not, you can stay with your rats,†she informed her before turning to face Kelly’s family. “Lieutenant, Cadet,†she greeted Richard and Elizabeth Varnay, while nodding at Kelly’s husband, Jonathan Prycehaufer. Moments later she left the small family as she began greeting other newly graduated cadets, knowing full well nearby cameras would catch her.
Medical Ward, New Bealton
Odessa, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
14th May 3111
In a sterile room in the main medical facility on Odessa Victor Steiner-Davion, the former First Prince of the Federated Suns, lay comatose where he had laid since his battle with Khan Jana Pryde only a few kilometres from where he now was. When he had been found Victor was close to bleeding out his chest penetrated by branches in two places and with several broken bones. The medics had rushed him to a medical facility but with a lung, kidney and heart damage all they could do was link him to several medical machines to keep him alive in a medically induced coma.
Beside his bed his wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion sat in the same chair she had for the last since his injuries waiting for him to come back to her. During time here she’d been reminded almost daily about how much she loved him and needed him, how much he had changed her life. Born a Canopian Princess she had become a respected warrior, fought the Clans found love and created her own life.
As one of the medical technicians checked the medical equipment Danai shifted in her chair enough to bump the bed. “Careful dear†a weak voice said a moment or two as Victor’s eyes flicked open.
“Victor!†She said leaning in to kiss him “Victor!†She said again kissing him again.
“Easy, I still hurt a lot†he said as she leaned back he glanced up at the medical tech “wonders of medical technology eh Doc?â€
“You certainly are OvKhan†the man said nodding downwards slightly the man wore Lyran medical briefs but wore a Clan Wolf insignia. It took him several moments to think about what he had said remembering the words meant ‘honoured superior’ and that there were still Wolves in the Lyran Commonwealth.
“What happened?†He asked as the tech raised the headboard of the chair so Victor could sit up which was agony for him but better than being unable to see her. It felt strange for Victor to feel so tired but he guessed that was what happened when you were so badly hurt.
“You have been in a medically induced coma for the last four months since your fight with Jana Pryde.†Danai said quietly “you had severe injuries following your ejection.†She explained as he tried to move “stay still†she commanded “the only way for you to recover was for the doctors to put you into a coma. Archon Steiner contacted the remaining Wolves on Gallery who agreed to attend and assist.â€
“And the rest is history?â€
“You’ve had a few close calls OvKhan Steiner-Davion†the technician said “your new heart has caused the most problems†he explained “it took us some time to get it to to work with your body.â€
“What happened with the Falcons?â€
“Victor Focht joined his forces with the Lyrans and assisted in liberating Alma Alta and Cameron from the Jade Falcons.†Danai said “unfortunately the Falcons have reinforced their position by capturing several clusters from the Hell’s Horses.†She said glancing down “and you received a message from Bannister Cameron.†She said handing a remote to him “there’s a Tri-vid player in the corner I’ve seen it, I’ll come back in when you are ready.†She said rising from her chair she guided the technician out. Victor reached for the play button and pressed it.
The message began as a hologram of Bannister Cameron appeared in the corner of the room he looked much like he had when Victor had last seen him on Terra. “This message is for Victor Ian Steiner-Davion if he has past then please destroy this message as it will be of no concern to you.†He said a moment later the message flicked slightly and then Bannister continued “Victor, I hope that this message finds you well, if you are seeing this message then I am dead and I have yet to appoint a successor.†He said if this was a joke it was the worst one that Victor had ever seen “I am recording this message on the 12th November 3110.†He said pausing to smile “I know you are probably thinking that you have not long left Terra and that I mentioned none of this.†He said “Victor, the reason that I did not mention this is because it was your choice to go against your instincts and take the mission against the Falcons.†He said glancing away from the tri-vid camera.
“You have told me many times over the last couple of years that your old habits were going to get you killed I think that it is your old habits that are keeping you alive.†He said “and I need you to keep something else alive, the Star League Protectorate and the Star League Defence Force.†He said “the Protectorate needs strong leadership and I want that leadership to be yours.†He said Victor paused the message and glanced at Bannister and then the door before playing the message “I know your argument you’ve retired, you wish to enjoy life, but I also know you also still feel a sense of duty I saw that when you served as First Lord and feel you still have much to give.â€
“I have sent to the Star League Protectorate’s Council that you are my nomination to replace me as leader of Liberty and of the Star League Protectorate.†He said stunning Victor “my friend do me this one last favour serve as the Protectorate’s first Exarch and make the Protectorate and the Star League endure until the next generation can enjoy its successes.†He said
The message then ended and Victor was treated with a news report that showed that Bannister Cameron had been assassinated on New Canton on the 26th February 3111. A week later Victor had been nominated and confirmed as Bannister’s replacement despite his status of being in a coma. In practice the day to day running of the Protectorate was run by the Council while Victor was a figurehead even House Liao supported it stating it was nice to see that Victor succeeded where his father failed even if the end result was the same. With Bannister officially also holding the title of the First Lord as well the member states decided that until the Council decided on a leader the Protectorate Council would also hold the First Lordship which technically meant that Victor was once again also the First Lord.
Ignoring Bannister’s offer and the pain he was in he called for two doctors one from the Lyran Commonwealth and one from the Wolves of Gallery. Both agreed that while he would live for many years to come the Commonwealth doctor was sure that he would be in pain and need further treatment for the rest of his days while the Wolf doctor was convinced that the newly grown organs that were now in his body would make him as healthy as he had been twenty years before. While he preferred the Wolf’s prognosis the great unknown bothered him. Instead of dwelling on their findings he then called for a hospital orderly and asked for transport to the Mechbay.
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Nearly three hours later Victor was sat on a wheelchair looking up at the repaired Dire Wolf OmniMech Prometheus its Lyran Guard paint scheme had been reapplied to the replacement armour which had been fitted to the OmniMech. “Couldn’t stay away from her?†The voice of Danai Centrella-Davion said as she walked up to him.
“I just wanted to see the thing that almost killed me, I thought it might help make sense of everything.†He said trying to explain his motives on being here.
“That didn’t almost kill you, a crazy Clan ***** almost killed you.†She said angrily he knew she was annoyed that he had come here before calling for her as well.
“Yes, but I was stupid enough to think I could still fight like I was thirty years younger.†Victor admitted “it was like the first time I piloted her I thought that there was nothing I couldn’t do.†He said looking from the OmniMech to Danai “I’ll never pilot her again.â€
“The doctors said you will make a full recovery.â€
“Yes, I know, and I’ll never pilot her again†he said being surer of the words this time “I will not put you through this again.†He said raising his arms to his side despite the pain. “I will keep that Mech I will keep up the appearance of being the warrior prince when I need to be but I won’t take her into battle that is for the past.â€
“Your future battlegrounds will be more up here†she said touching his forehead Victor closed his eyes enjoying her touch “Exarch Steiner-Davion.â€
“Where on earth did Bannister come up with that?â€
“It was the Council not Bannister and I believe they took it from Ancient Terra’s European District during the rule of one of the first major empires.†She explained when she’d heard the title she’d immediately began reading about it. “Bannister Cameron turned his back on the title claiming that should a Cameron take on a fancy name for his role then many would see it as the first step towards reborn Hegemony.â€
“The Protectorate is that in all but name already all it lacks is its own military wing separate from the Star League Defence Force and from what I’ve ready many believe that it is only time before that happens.†Victor said looking up at Prometheus again “when people have weapons of war it is only a matter of time before they want the power that goes with them. It was the same with the bow and arrow, the first firearm, main battle tank, BattleMech, WarShip it doesn’t matter the type of weapon each of them brings man closer to conflict over resource and power.â€
“Which Bannister wants you to keep a lid on for a little longer†she said prodding him back to the important conversation instead of chasing the reasons man made war against other man.
“I retired†he said looking back at her “and what’s to stop the member states beginning to treat the Protectorate as a new Terran March? Linking the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth this could start a new Succession War.â€
“Only if you gave preferential treatment to those states and worked against the others you’ve shown in the past a fair hand while serving as First Lord. It does mean you’ll have to be firm with Burton and the Federated Suns but if you are able to handily that then it shouldn’t be a problem? The Star League is fragile it has been since the Capellans withdrew and now with the Combine lowering their support these are testing times but it is not over. And if the Star League does fall the Protectorate worlds could use a leader who knows how to win a conflict at its helm.â€
“I retired†he repeated again looking back at Prometheus.
“Old habits die hard, Exarch†she said leaning over him wrapping her arm around his shoulders showing her support for his new position.
Border Fighting
Draconis March, Federated Suns
22nd May 3111
Under the direction of Warlord Hirohito Kurita DCMS Ground and Naval forces assault the system’s of Reisling’s Planet and Galtor III. Deploying two pairs of WarShips to the systems they quickly overwhelm the Davion naval forces and push on towards the planet.
On both planets the DCMS find elite RCTs of the Davion Guards awaiting them each backed with several aerospace wings and assault DropShips meaning the WarShips were warier of remaining close enough to provide orbital bombardment instead they approached close enough to allow their ground forces to land but without risking the WarShips.
Without orbital fire support the ground battle was a stalemate with the Davion Guard RCTs skill, equipment levels and dug in positions compensating for the superior numbers held by the DCMS units.
Crucis March Duke’s Conference Room, The Fox’s Den
New Avalon, New Avalon PDZ
Crucis March, Federated Suns
17th May 3111
The display map of the St. Ives PDZ showed a planet in a sea of orange now flashing green in its loss to the Capellan Confederation. A shadow moved to a point directly adjacent to the flashing and pointed a finger at the planet and stopped the flashing.
“Indicass was invaded by three CCAF units… am I correct? THREE?!? Not one, or two… but three. And no one here or in the field noticed that any of them moved off station, travelling through light years of space and across our border… no one? Three units… not one, or two but three. Well…â€
The combined senior staff officers from the Department of Military Intelligence’s MI2, 3 and 4 as well as their Capellan and Crucis March intelligence representatives stood silently along with DMI Leftenant-General Alanna Green-Davion. Even though she bristled at the situation and considered very, very briefly an attempt to defend the assembled analysts, she made no protest to what she knew was coming.
The shadow grew in front of the display until Duke Paul Ryan-Bowman appeared in front of them though the Duke of the Crucis Mark he was considerably closer to the Davions than Duchess Kym Hasek, the current ruler of New Syrtis and the Capellan March. With the Fox’s Den serving to coordinate efforts for the Federated Suns defence he was simply in a better position to give them a dressing down than Hasek was unfortunately as it was with most things they’d probably get the same from Duchess Kym Hasek when she found the time.
She had heard the stories about him from her own grandmother, who had served as the liaison officer to the Wild Geese mercenary command, back when he was their field commander. He was about the same age as the legendary Victor Steiner-Davion but if not for her position coming up the ranks of DMI, she would haven’t a clue about how dangerous this Duke was… much less had been a key part of. The man had such impossibly high standards that her posting last summer had seemed like a punishment rather than a privilege. At this moment he knew more than she did, too much raw information, too much public evidence to even attempt to smooth the situation. His very expression kept alternating between stark disbelief and controlled anger.
At times like these, the analysts around her surely considered death to be less painful option than what he might be planning for them next. Not one of them had detected anything irregular afoot, none of them could fathom how Twenty-second Liao Lancers, the Hustaing Lancers or House Dai Da Chi had landed and flattened the Second St Ives Janissaries RCT turning what had originally been a raid into an full invasion. But the old man was on to something… even they couldn’t find the edges of this puzzle; he had the pieces in his hands. Everyone knew it the depths of the seriousness of this situation as well as they did and he sensed their trepidation and confusion.
“Collectively you all represent decades of the finest and most expensive training the AFFS has to offer… AND. WE. FAILED. THIS. NATION. MISERABLY!†Taking a deep breath, Duke Paul passed around them, silently fixing his eyes on each of the assembled personnel in turn. Silence gained lease so that heartbeats were audible for almost a minute. Field Marshal Green-Davion held her breath as he passed her by without so much as a side-long glance. Her training took root and in those moments she realized two things. Firstly – he was caught off guard just as much as they were. Secondly - she was going to have to remind him of a personal appointment with Duchess Alexandra and the Marshal of the Armies, Frederick Davion, in a few minutes time the whole reason for the Duke being on New Avalon was to gain support from the Marshal of Armies for new construction efforts on Tikonov. ‘What a great day to be a loyal daughter of the Suns’, she thought, ‘I wonder if the Mercenary Liaison office would let me transfer over…’
“That’s right, WE. But I, I personally have to explain this, all of this, to our bosses – First Prince Burton and Marshal of the Armies Frederick. My job… not any one of you and I am NOT eager to explain how this was done right in front of OUR eyes. That’s right… OUR eyes and how we did not know one of our worlds had been taken by the Capellans of all people. I will take the responsibility for this fiasco but before that happens you WILL find out how this happened. By the Unfinished Book! You WILL find out the five Ws and H of this… and I want those answers YESTERDAY!â€
With his magnanimous pointing towards the door, the assembled personages didn’t waste anytime in exiting the conference room, several bodily collisions and hasty stumbles ensued. At any other time, Allana would have laughed herself silly at the sight. They were all so very eager to escape and redress their job priorities, while also keeping their rank and station in life intact. However, someone got to stay and deal with the Duke, so Leftenant-General Green-Davion stood silently and waited. There were times being the liaison to a march lord as well as his de facto aide-de-camp was a bitch. When the last analyst had left the room, the Duke angrily punched the projector, then looking skyward; he uncharacteristically let out a sarcastic laugh.
“Leftenant-General?†he asked as he waived the holographic map off.
“Yes your Grace?†she responded tentatively.
“I need to plan. I need three Sword Teams ready to move and a list of available small to medium sized house and mercenary units we can use to correct this unbelievably egregious oversight before I am asked what my plan to resolve this is. But before that and more importantly… I need your help… as I am sure you realize, this caught me off guard also. I looked but somehow, someway, the Capellans slithered past me – right past my face – even though I was looking for them.†He said the Sword Team was a concept that originated more than a dozen years before and was essentially a Light LCT with two or three regiments of forces in strength more mobile than either an LCT or RCT the Sword Teams were primarily made up of armour and battle armour forces with BattleMech units serving in a support and assault role. Ryan-Bowman had been behind their original inception and had quietly syphoned forces off his Tikonov Cossacks to reform six such units while it had given him additional units to deploy it had weakened the Cossacks which would take years to rebuild to previous strengths.
Alanna blinked in surprise for she couldn’t remember Duke Paul ever admitting something like this could have been missed by him. His record, from a professional standpoint, was exemplary since he became Duke of the Crucis March. Not much ever slipped past him, he seemed to actually be very prescient in predicting what the Suns’ enemies would do… until now. For the first time she looked at him and saw something she had never seen before in him - he was afraid. And although she hated to admit it, she had reached the very same conclusion that he had – and she was afraid too. He looked her in the eyes and smiled in a fatherly way, his age becoming more apparent as motioned her towards the conference room door.
“Something is very wrong with our intelligence system… I believe it has been compromisedâ€, he confided to her shock, “… at least I think that’s where it lies. Look at everything, look everywhere, somewhere, something… something is very wrong in the Prince’s house. Choose your assistants with care, keep this compartmentalized as much as possible, use my name if the need arises. No matter how this plays out, it’s my failure to have anticipated such an eventuality not yours.â€
Walking through the door she turned to him and nodded her head.
“Of course your Grace and I do appreciate your faith… but why me? I’m MI2 trained and my record for such things as you ask is charitably acceptable… but hardly the best. Surely MI5 or 6 operatives would be better suited for this. I am sure I could find another who could do-â€
“Integrity.†he said cutting her off. “I have come to depend on you to check my ways and methods. Your integrity and loyalty is beyond question, which is why I endorsed your promotion. What I need and what House Davion demands from you at this moment is your integrity. I need your help, and I need you to get to what is behind this and together root it out before it can go any farther.â€
Surprised by the revelation she looked around, dropping her voice low, she inquired, “I was always under the impression that since I was chosen for this job that you had no confidence in how I ran the department…â€
“Oh that, he’s like that with only those he believes are worth his attention,†came a strange whisper from behind the Field Marshal, “as far as that goes, you are up there on his very short list...â€
Leftenant-General Green-Davion turned to see Duchess Alexandra Ryan-Bowman standing behind her smiling, with the Marshal of Armies on her arm, “... but punctuality was never his strong suit. Now, if I could borrow him for a bit, the Marshal of the Suns needs to discuss something with us.â€
By early June Sword Units Excalibur, Attila and Laban had redeployed from Tikonov under the Duke’s orders, and with authorization from Marshal of Armies Fredrick Davion, and made their way to Indicass driving off the remaining Capellans on the world bringing the system back under Federated Suns control.
Planetary Assault, Spectre (Spectre-class Strike Cruiser)
Sterope, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
30th May 3111
Using data held over from the first Star League the Sceptre had jumped into the Sterope system neat the ninth planet’s orbit into an area which should be devoid of life. “Stations report†Star Captain Gerry Harper commanded looking around the command deck as the ship emerged from Hyperspace.
“Perimetre scan complete, no contacts†Rickie reported from the sensors station.
“Engineering, no abnormal system reports following jump, eng…â€
“Correction sensor contacts rapidly approaching our position.†Rickie reported interrupting.
“Sensors clarify†Harper commanded remaining calm.
“It is a rock storm, possibly a comet at some point, impact in six mintes.â€
“Engineering get the sail in now those rocks will rip it to pieces.†Harper ordered the engineer nodded but after a few moments Harper realized there was a problem. “Report Tom.â€
“Sir, the mechanism is fouled we can’t retrive the sail.â€
“Damned jinx†Lewis commented from communications.
“Shut it†Harper snarled at the man “Tom cut the sail loose “Amanda bring us around between the rocks and sail and those rocks†he commanded she looked at him for a second but Harper didn’t hesitate “do it now!†He ordered again this time she followed his orders bringing the Sceptre into a tight turn placing the vessel between the fragile jump sail and the incoming rocks. “All weapons on the port side open fire on those rocks as they approach. If it comes to a choice between us and the sail protect the sail.†He commanded keying the communications on his chair “all hands prepare for potential impacts!†He said.
Along the hull of the Sceptre autocannons, gauss rifles and pulse lasers cut into the incoming rocks cutting down even the smallest piece of debris heading towards them. For the larger pieces the Sceptre’s naval lasers vaporized rock after rock in a display of marksmanship that would make any WarShip crew proud of all the rocks coming towards them only two rocks hit the Sceptre causing minimum damage.
“Well done people†Harper transmitted throughout the ship before turning to his command crew “Tom, ETA on sail retrieval.â€
“Couple of ours at least we need to clear the mechanisms and check the sail for any damage.â€
“So we are staying here†Harper noted
“Just waiting to be found†Lewis commented
“Lewis as long as you are on this bridge keep your comments to yourself or I’ll see you in personal combat.â€
“Can’t even refrain from using foul language Star Captain the pressure must be getting to you.†Lewis said mimicking Harper’s use of a contraction “we have fallen far.†He said turning back to his console. “No planetary communications or sensor scans, our weapons fire was masked by the radiation coming from ninth planet.â€
“Lewis, pass to Star Commander Shu and the Konstantin that their mission is a go we will move into a support position once the sail is retrieved.†He said as the WarShip’s two DropShips detached from the hull intending on heading into the system beginning the next phase of their mission.
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To all the fans/contributers of this thread have a Merry Christmas (if you celebrate it) I will get an update done at some point RL has taken a good turn recently so writing is a little backseat but it will continue soon
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Merry Christmas DC.
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So I needed a break and RL took a very good upturn but I can't give up on the story I enjoy telling
With the main forums down I'll post here for now and update when the other is active again.
Distress call Konstantin (Overlord-class DropShip)
Sterope, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
4th June 3111
Across the Sterope system the DropShip Konstantin broadcast a general distress call claiming to have suffered a catastrophic hull breach with several systems damaged and crewmen in dire need of medical attention. From Sterope’s defence force a single Tug-class DropShip and several Tigress-class Gunboats were deployed to search for an assist the Konstantin if required.
Sitting far deeper in the system Captain Gerry Harper watched as the Taurian’s mobilized their forces fanning out from Sterope heading towards the “crippled†DropShip. “Not enough†he commented watching the screens he’d wanted more of the defence DropShips to deploy but most of the Taurians had remained in their defence positions. The Sceptre couldn’t do much to change the outcome of what was to come any transmission from the WarShip would give away their position and end any chance of this mission being a success.
Nearly twelve hours later the DropShip Harbin made its move breaking out of the regular space lanes heading directly for the shipyard Gerry Harper had remained in the Sceptre’s command centre and watched intently as the holotank image updated as his people made their move. Two of the Sceptre’s aerospace fighter pilots launched soon after the Habin made its move the pilots had volunteered and their initial actions would be critical to the Habin’s success. The pair of Jengiz Aerospace Fighters pulled off away from the Harbin and rapidly shooting down a flight of four Taurian fighters which had been tasked with guarding the space lanes and keeping ships in their correct positions. With these fighters destroyed/disabled the two eighty-ton Clan OmniFighters swung around matching formation with the Harbin which was now three hours from the shipyards.
The three hours were the longest three hours of Gerry Harper’s life sitting in the Sceptre’s control he watched as the Holotank updated with sensor telemetry on the distant DropShip and aerospace fighters. The Tug and Tigress craft had also changed course turning back towards the shipyard ignoring the continued calls for help from the Konstantin who themselves had changed position and were maintaining contact via a communication relay.
The Harbin charged in on the shipyards at nearly three gravities of acceleration the craft moving up an over the shipyards as aerospace fighters, small craft and DropShips manoeuvred to engage. The two Sceptre aerospace fighters stayed with the Harbin initially before breaking off to assault a Union-class DropShip while causing heavy damage to the craft the two Jengiz aircraft were rapidly surrounded by Taurian craft and were soon disabled but their attack had done enough for the Harbin to move into position. Pushing the ship’s engines to their limit the Harbin’s crew had brought the craft over the facility remaining close enough for defence emplacements to struggle to hit them while also scanning for and finding the warehouse district. With Taurian Tigress type craft closing in on them from all sides the main cargo bay doors of the Harbin opened and fifty Battle Armour equipped Elementals, the Sceptre’s entire marine complement, dropped from the craft onto the shipyard’s hull two of the Elementals were vaporized by weapons fire from the defenders but the other forty-eight landed on the shipyard and used breaching explosives to gain access to the facility. Above the Harbin attempted to accelerate away but already the DropShip had suffered heavy damage and the sudden burst of acceleration was too much for the old DropShip inside the craft something failed sending the Harbin into an unrecoverable spin which took the ship over the facility towards a fuel storage facility the Leopard-class vessel slammed into the fuel tanks its mass and velocity enough to breach them and cause a massive explosion causing several decompressions. As safety features failed explosions rippled through the facility causing severe damage to nearby accommodation facilities resulting in hundreds of deaths with thousands more at risk.
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Burning their way inside the space station the Elementals quickly created a perimeter facing outwards their weapons raised. From both sides Taurians in environmental suits approached the armoured Clansmen damaging several suits with small arms fire and the Elementals retaliated showing why the genetically engineered soldiers were so feared. Inside the perimeter Star Commander Quinn Shu commanded her marines while consulting their sensor images. “Point four you have lead†she commanded “we will locate the warehouses and secure them for the Konstantin to move in.†She said as the lead Elementals of Point four took a step in the microgravity gunning down several Taurian marines but also taking several laser hits. Behind them the other Elementals moved forwards down the corridor.
As the Sceptre’s marines moved through the facility they found that the Taurian Space Defence Forces had prepared for this eventuality when they designed the Sterope Shipyards. While the Elementals could outgun any of the marines individually the Taurians had several “choke†points where they could use cover to even the fight and there were several areas where the Taurians could shoot through specially designed points of the wall. With these surprises set up three elementals of Point four were down already their suit’s breached and their warriors suffocated.
“Point four right step point three take lead†Shu commanded moments later the remaining two members of Point Four stepped out of the way allowing the fresh point to take the lead. “Point Three switch to explosive delivery†she commanded instead of the restrained effort the Elementals had been making as one of them stepped around the corner he fired both of the suit’s shoulder-mounted short range missile launchers into one of the Taurian’s defence points blowing up several defenders causing heavy damage to the corridor. “Konstantin, Shu, we are experiencing heavy resistance mission outcome doubtful without heavy casualties.†She reported.
“Shu, Konstantin, we’re inbound BattleMechs prepared for boarding†the DropShip replied.
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Deeper in the system Gerry Harper looked the situation and saw the prospect of his entire marine force and BattleMech unit lost in one battle. “Lankenu, bring us out of the shadow. Engineering jump us to the shipyards.†The crew looked at him “this was always an option. Battle stations, set ship wide battle stations.†He commanded as the Sceptre began to accelerate the ship’s weapons and sensors powered to full strength giving away their position.
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The Konstantin rapidly moved over the shipyard depositing two binaries of BattleMechs onto the facility. From there the BattleMechs began to rake the space around the shipyard targeting aerospace forces and small craft who were obiting. As they moved across the hull the BattleMechs shot out Taurian defence points as well.
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Blowing through a set of pressure doors Shu and the other Elementals forced themselves into the warehouse section and began scanning the munitions, armour sections, heat sinks and weapon systems. “Shu to Konstantin, we have as much as we need in this section.†She transmitted but moments later her suit was struck by several bursts of weapons fire. Shu reacted instinctively moving to the side into cover as did many other Elementals. “One-one, no breach I repeat no breach.†She said transmitted glancing out seeing the Taurians had set up two defence turrets in the warehouse and the Taurians had waited for them to enter before firing. On the other side of the warehouse two more turrets opened up on the Elementals position damaging several more suits. “Konstantin, we need some more support!†Shu called out transmitting the position of one of the turrets.
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On the hull of the shipyard Stefan Banacek received the same coordinates “Banacek to Konstantin, we can take it.†He said changing to the general frequency so Shu could hear as well. “We can take it.†He said transmitting the coordinates to four other BattleMechs who turned their weapons on a section of hull on the shipyard and opened fire targeting a section of hull off to their right battering the hull plating. “Another volley we’ll be through†Banacek transmitted.
“Understood we are holding position.†Shu replied as explosions continued behind her. As Banacek took aim again there was a massive flash of light which felt like it was all around them a wave of energy seemed to pour over Banacek’s Blood Asp and the other Mechs and the MechWarrior fought to keep control. Blinking his eyes rapidly Banacek looked at the sensor feed and saw his Mech’s systems were trying to make sense of a multi-thousand-ton object which had suddenly appeared above them.
“It’s a WarShip!†He shouted a warning as waves of rockets began launching from the vessel down on them “pull back, pull back!†He shouted as his OmniMech was struck by more than twenty rockets he fought the momentum of the Mech as it wanted to fall. Beside him a Shadow Hawk and a Nova did not fair so well losing their footing the BattleMechs began to drift away from the hull. “MOVE!†He now screamed as another wave of fire fell on the Mechs “Shu, you’re on your own, we’re totally defensive! The Taurians just pulled in a Congress II which looks like it’s seen better days and been heavily modified!†He said as his sensors began to make sense of it only because his Mech once belonged to the Snow Ravens was the Battle computer able to identify the WarShip.
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On board the Sceptre the crew worked rapidly at making sense of the situation and preparing the ship for an inter-system jump. “It’s a Congress II, Federated Suns registry, FSS Jason Hasek.â€
“So the Taurians roll their final dice.†Gerry Harper replied “helm, bring us in position above them pass to Banacek that we are inbound his people need to stay down.â€
“The WarShip is already seeing to that…â€
“Ready to jump, sir†Amanda Lankenu said reporting that the Sceptre was in position and that its engines were primed.
“Very well, weapons batteries stand-by to fire following our emergence, helm jump the ship.†He commanded throughout the ship a siren sounded and then rapidly the vessel fired its jump-drive and launched the ship into a jump which took it across the system in a blink of the eye.
Moments after the jump had been triggered the Sceptre arrived near the shipyards above the recently arrived Jason Hasek. As the Sceptre orientated itself against the larger Congress II while the Jason Hasek was a larger ship the Sceptre was in far better condition and from the jump was in a better position with its broadside orientated at the Congress’ aft section. Naval lasers and autocannons “fell†down on the Congress’ aft section smashing armour and engine exhausts while the Congress only had a few lighter model naval autocannons to reply from.
“Were not expecting that were you?†Harper commented as some of Sceptre’s fire went wide and slammed into the shipyard below causing secondary explosions. As the Sceptre continued to fire on the Congress two massive capital missiles slammed into the vessel’s forward hull below the Congress began a lazy turn.
“Krakens†Tom from the engineering section said “they threw up a volley of rockets distracted our AMS and then hit us.†As the Congress continued to turn more Krakens fired from the ship’s forward section along with more rockets.
“How many did they fit onto that blasted ship?†Another commented
“Weps set AMS to ignore rockets concentrate on the capital missiles. All weapons on the Congress have our remaining fighters target the Taurians.†Harper commanded the Sceptre continued to pound the Congress but as it turned now they faced fresh armour on the other vessel along with further naval autocannons which opened up on the Sceptre causing heavy armour damage. Unfortunately, it was too little too late for the Taurian vessel as the Sceptre’s near constant barrage of naval lasers penetrated the vessel’s armour causing more and more internal damage enough now that entire sections of the vessel were exposed to vacuum.
“They are losing power and helm control.â€
“Understood continue to fireâ€
“Elementals are still looking for supportâ€
“Redirect aerospace fighters to the station have them provide support fire.†Harper commanded as the Sceptre finished off the Congress II the aerospace fighters dived into the station blowing open a section to space. “Have Konstantin and our small craft redirect to the station collect our BattleMech force and begin to load supplies.â€
Below the Sceptre the Congress began to tumble out of control as the Sceptre’s fire severed links between the ship’s command and control and main engines. The remaining small craft and aerospace fighters continued to attack the Sceptre but their attacks were now far more diminished.
“CAPITAL MISSILES!†Rickie shouted as nearly a dozen missiles appeared from another angle.
“Engines to full, try to throw them off, anti-missile fire against all capital missiles.†Harper commanded bringing the vessel up tp thrust moving it away from its previous position attempting to throw off the incoming missiles if any of them were nuclear then they’d be in trouble.
As the Sceptre suddenly began to accelerate the first three missiles went wide slamming into the shipyard none of them were nuclear armed but one must have hit something combustible as there were several secondary explosions. “Have our marines be ready to evacuate!†He called out as he saw the Sceptre’s anti-missile systems swat six more of the capital missiles while an aerospace fighter intercepted another. “Sensors, find the ships that launched those missiles!†He demanded hopping they’d find them before they fired again.
“Three Mule-class vessels which appear to have been modified with capital weapons.â€
“Helm take us to them now!†He said as the sensors detected several more missile launches.
“No†Harper whispered before regaining his composure “helm, random manoeuvres change our speed and all counter-measures fire on missiles.†He said the Sceptre’s movements became completely random causing trouble for all of the crew and systems several of the capital missiles went wide again. “They should be getting closer than that†he said as three missiles struck the WarShip fortunately all were conventional warheads and only caused armour damage. As Harper watches the Sceptre’s gunners destroy the DropShips two aerospace fighters destroyed the remaining two capital missiles causing a large nuclear explosion which wiped out the two craft. “There is no way they only had one, scanners on the wreckage, I want to know if any of their warheads survived.â€
After several hours of work thousands of tons of supplies, food, spare parts, fuel and ammunition were loaded from the shipyards onto the Sceptre. While their marines kept the Taurians at bay long enough to for them all to evacuate onto the WarShip. From the Mules the Sceptre’s crew recovered four nuclear warheads while from the Congress they salvaged as much ammunition from the ship as they could.
“What now?†Stefan Banacek asked returning to the WarShip he now stood in the vessel’s command centre having lost four of his BattleMechs and their warriors in the fight. Overall their losses had been lighter than they expected over the Harbin with four aerospace fighters lost, two small craft crippled and sixteen Elemental Battle Armour suits damaged with six lost.
“You do not leave an enemy stronghold at your back.†Harper said and with that the Sceptre’s broadside battery opened fire with naval lasers battering the shipyard below. Already damaged the shipyards began crumpling under the assault. Inside two of the construction bays two partially completed Hyades-class Corvettes exploded within the facility causing even more damage. “How let’s get the hell out of here.†Harper said watching the crippled facility begin to fall into Sterope’s atmosphere below there would be little to stop it now, behind the shipyards the remains of the Jason Hasek would also probably end up inside in the planet’s atmosphere.
Within days of the announcement of the attack and the shipyards destruction the Taurian Government declare all Clan forces as pirate forces and order a nationwide hunt for the Sceptre. Rescue ships head to the world of Sterope but the world is now little more than a dying one.
Terrorist Attacks
Liao, Acamar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
6th June 3111
Across the world of Liao there are eight terrorist strikes reaching from cyber attacks, to vehicle bombs and gun attacks. The attacks cause mass casualties in several locations with riots following in several locations across the world. The AFFS and MIIO move across the world to quell the disturbances that follow but the world is still a troubled one.
Thirty-Eighth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
14th June 3111
The Thirty-Eighth Star League Games begins on Solaris VII with the usual fan fair associated with the games that immediately predates the regular Solaris season. With many state sponsored fighters involved in the battle the regular Solaris fighters generally avoided the battle but Dichen LeFranc chose to become involved. Originally born in the Federated Suns and piloting a common Lyran Heavy BattleMech, the Falconer, LeFranc out manoeuvres his opponents and claims victory in the games leading to much speculation that he will do well in the coming season.
World War
Port Arthur, Twin Sons
District of Lenovo, Free Worlds League
19th June 3111
Looking at the screens Lt Colonel Petra Furey watched as the reports came in as the Northern States of Cameron Marik and the Allied States of John Marik pushed into the Badlands engaging each other. “They are beginning a conflict that will engulf this world, Colonel†she said glancing at her immediate superior Colonel Timon Hanzo.
“Because they are afraid†Hanzo said looking at Petra “of what we are becoming.†He said “deploy our garrison, have them hold at the outer marker and target anyone who comes near us.â€
“We cannot hold against all of them.â€
“Neg†Hanzo said agreeing with her while she was young she learned quickly and had a near fanatical support from their men. He knew her bloodline and would not cross her but he would teach her all he knew “we will turn them against each other if this conflict continues for any length of time.†He said “firstly we will protect this enclave and those we have sworn to protect then when the time is right we will make sure that they target the right places.â€
“With the Streaking Mist?â€
“Only if it comes to it, orbital bombardment will not be our first strategy†he said “we will not repeat Turtle Bay. Instead we will allow their armies to destroy each other and then bring this world under a single governing body.†He said Furey nodded her agreement with Hanzo.
Above Davetal III
Nova Cat territory
Taurian Concordat
23rd June 3111
Above the world of Davetal III aerospace fighters and DropShips fought and died as the Taurian Concordat launched a full offensive on the Nova Cat held territory deep within their nation. With the attack on Sterope the Taurian government considered all Clansmen to be enemies of the state and were lashing out at their nearest opponents. As the fighters fought specialist Taurian marines assaulted and boarded the Nova Cat Carrack-class Light in the Abyss. Fighting against the mostly merchant crew on board the vessel the Taurians seize control of the vessel and then pilot the craft out of the system.
Although there was no ground battle between the Taurians and Nova Cats the Taurian attack without an official Trial or Batchall essentially is a declaration of war between the two factions.
Clan Territory
Glory, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
25th June 3111
Walking across the burned grass Khan Alex Lassenem approached the harbour front along with several other members of the Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion Clans. At the waterfront Goliath Scorpion Khan Ingo Yeh stood watching as Clan Elementals escorted the Society crews of the three docked Whisperer-class Tactical Submarines from their ships. “A great day†Alex said looking at the other Khan “Glory is ours today because of the joint efforts of our Clans.â€
“Aff, Khan Lassenem I agree, interesting toys the Society built.†He said indicating to the three submarines and the smaller escort craft. For the last three weeks the Blood Spirits and Goliath Scorpions had hunted for them while they attacked Clan held positions but eventually all it took was for the Clans to close down on their remaining ground based contacts and wait them out until they ran out of food.
“Aff, but with their surrender the Society’s final hold is broken.â€
“Until they return and fight us off or bombard us from space.â€
“We have control over the SDS systems with the capture of the Caraxes it will give them further pause before attacking.†He suggested Ingo Yeh nodded his agreement.
“Unfortunately, the Caraxes places another question…†he said he saw Alex begin to speak but he raised his hand slowly silencing him. “Khan Lessenem the vessel is undoubtably a Blood Spirit asset, I will not argue this, my people had no hand in capturing it nor do we have the resources to crew it.†He said “but you have to ask yourself how does a Mississippi-class vessel come to be in Society hands? We know it was built here in the homeworlds but it was designed in the Inner Sphere where did they learn how to build her?â€
“You are suggesting that the Inner Sphere Clans still have members of the Society within their ranks?â€
“Aff, we may weaken the Society here but if they continue to thrive in the Inner Sphere this conflict could be a very long one.â€
“We are here for the duration we will stop them completely.†Alex Lassenem said confidently Glory would be the first of many such victories.
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Yay nice update
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Yay nice update
Aye, really good update.
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Thanks for all the support - another delayed update but here it is
Border conflict
Hagiwawa, Proserpina PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
2nd July 3111
With Federated Suns naval units redeployed the DCMS launch a full assault on the worlds of Hagiwawa and Umijiri striking both worlds with several Ghost Regiments. Each had been raised as a combined arms unit within the unit are several squads of Oni Battle Armour suits which make their debut for the DCMS. The new medium sized battle suit proves itself superior to the AFFS suits it is facing and significantly helps in securing the two systems back for House Kurita.
Planetary assault
Davetal II, Star League Protectorate
Taurian Concordat
9th July 3111
The world of Davetal II which is protected by the Star League Defence Force gets caught in the crossfire between the Nova Cats and Taurian Concordat as the Nova Cats retaliate against the world making up for Taurian raids on Nova Cat forces by striking at the SLDF. Committing all four clusters of Tau Galaxy along with significant naval assets.
With the Nova Cats able to secure air superiority over the planet quickly their ground forces are able to strike the Nineteenth Striker Regimental Brigade from multiple directions never letting the Eridani Light Horse warriors rest while being unable to fully concentrate their forces through fear that the Nova Cats could resort to naval support. After nearly a week of heavy fighting a Land-Air Mech Regiment taken from the four Nineteenth Striker Regiments launches a direct assault against the Nova Cats Enchanter, a Tetrach-class Battle-cruiser crippling the vessel. This attack destroys the LAM forces but also buys the Nineteenth time to escape the planet. With the SLDF forces in retreat the Nova Cats allow them to leave instead securing full control over Davetal II and with it the rest of the system ending the lengthy truce which had split the system.
Welcome Parade, Unity Street
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
19th July 3111
Despite losses in the Davetal system the world of Terra was in celebration as Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion arrived on Terra to assume his new position in leading the Star League Protectorate. As a welcome the Royal Black Watch Division, the First Terran Regimental Guard Brigade and several of the Terra based trainees through the streets of Unity City, the capital of the Star League Protectorate, with all the pomp and ceremony that Victor had come to expect from the Great Houses.
From the parade Victor entered the main Star League Protectorate Administration building walking through what was once Bannister Cameron’s working office which was a room which was filled with traditional woods and comfortable seating and into a room that was completely different. Instead of a traditional office with open windows overlooking Unity City’s skyline the room was dark and windowless with several floor positions and roof mounted projectors. He stepped into the middle of the room and waited silently. As the appointed time arrived the lights dimmed further and one of the floor projectors at Victor’s four o’clock position activated and the image of his son First Prince Burton Davion appeared as if he was in the same room Victor knew that in reality that Burton was dozens of light years away from him and still in the Federated Suns but the wonder of modern technology allowed him to appear in the same room.
“Exarch†Burton greeted him formally “it is good to see you are well.†He said not long before Victor had been in a coma so just seeing his father was a joy to Burton, something that Victor too appreciated. “I did not expect you to accept the position.â€
“I helped form this League, I plan to ensure it succeeds beyond my life.†He explained to his son as Archon Jessica Steiner appeared at the Lyran almost directly opposite Burton’s position.
“Gentlemen†she said greeting them warmly smiling before she could speak further the podium between them activated and the Draconis Combine’s leader Warlord Hirohito Kurita appeared.
“I am sorry to interrupt this family gathering†the Warlord said dispensing with any pretence of formality or respect. Considering the current sate of the Draconis Combine-Federated Suns border Victor was not surprised.
“Not at all, all members of this council are welcome.â€
“I do not understand the need for it…†Hirohito began only to be interrupted by the arrival of images of both Magetix Ilsa Centrella and Protector Erik Martens-Calderon the leaders of both periphery member states and then finally Captain General Joseph Marik.
“My apologies for my lateness†Joseph Marik said my son Isaiah Marik was born this morning.†He said informing them of his newest arrival.
“That’s your sixth?†Burton commented as he tried to remember how many children the Captain-General had.
“Seven†Victor corrected his son “congratulations Captain-Generalâ€
“Thank you, Exarch, I am glad to see you are looking well and were willing to step into fill the gap left by Bannister.â€
“Not my plan Captain-General but I will what I must to ensure this League stays together†Victor said hearing the projectors whine slightly as the room drew more power ignoring it he continued “to this end we must elect another First Lord. Bannister Cameron not only left a void in the Protectorate but also in this Council.â€
“Perhaps the question should not be to elect a new First Lord but to have worlds turned back to their respective states…†Hirohito suggested
“And end this League?†Burton challenged interrupting him “you do know that would mean an end to your nation. Between the Clans and my Federated Suns…â€
“You barely acknowledge this League exists†Hirohito snapped “your attacks continue on my nation…â€
“And yours on mine!â€
“This League must continue†Joseph Marik said passionately “I believe in this League and I believe in this council’s ability to mend the wounds that we have created.†He said looking between the two leaders and then back at Victor “Exarch Steiner-Davion I do not believe we need another council meeting to progress with this League.†He said pausing to look among the national leaders “Lord Bannister Cameron was voted to be First Lord of this Council we have already agreed privately that the Star League Protectorate would continue to carry the positon once another leader was selected.†He said “only certain members of this Council have forced this vote.†He said looking between Hirohito, Erik Martens-Calderon and Ilsa Centrella. “Instead of hiding behind their desires for power they should support our decisions and continue to support SLDF operations which will improve our defence and Projects that will improve peoples lives.†He said bringing down the other lords.
“I support the Exarch’s claim†Jessica Steiner said finding her voice
“As do I†Burton Davion said
“The Steiner-Davion Alliance continues!†Hirohito Kurita almost screamed angrily “this is the Federated Commonwealth in everything but the name the Dragon will not allow this to stand.â€
“This is nothing like the Federated Commonwealth if it were the Combine would be occupied!†Victor snapped back “Warlord, I for one will be happy to help broker a peace between your nation and the Federated Suns.†He said seeing Burton’s slight shock “but I can only do so with the support of the Council and work from all sides.†He said looking at everyone and down at a single empty podium “as First Lord I will make this Council whole again and bring the Capellan Confederation back into the fold and will reprioritize the SLDF to cancel the continued gains by the Clans but I cannot do this alone I need the support of this council.â€
“I support the Exarch†Joseph Marik said before another could speak
“You have my support father.â€
“I agree to support Victor as First Lord†Jessica Steiner agreed
“The Magistracy will watch the developments but we currently support Exarch Davion.â€
“The Concordat will not stand in the First Lord’s path however we request immediate assistance with Clan Nova Cat who threaten our borders.â€
“After they started a war…†Burton added
“Thank you, First Prince Davion†Victor said glancing at the Taurian leader “the SLDF is assessing what is needed for that conflict Protector.â€
“Then you have my support†he said leaving Hirohito Kurita to vote
“Your actions will determine my nation’s support favourism towards the Federated Suns or Lyran Commonwealth may damage my ability to continue to support.â€
“I understand†Victor said the Warlord’s name could easily counter any loss of support there was in the Combine population but he kept quiet.
“Then you have my support and the support of the Draconis Combine, First Lord.†He said almost immediately cutting the link quickly the other national leaders cut their links leaving only Burton, Joseph and Victor.
“Sire, while I did not want to speak at the entire council has your position changed regarding my nation’s stance?†Burton asked mindful of his words in front of Joseph.
“No, you are a strong leader son, I know you will make the right choices for our people.â€
“Thank you, we will speak soon I am sure pass to mother my love.†He said leaving the conference.
“Children†Joseph said getting Victor’s attention
“Yes, they are our future Captain-General.â€
“I completely agree Exarch, I wish to extend an invitation to you and your wife to Marik at your earliest convenience. We would like to increase our links to the Protectorate and help in making it stronger.â€
“Thank you Captain-General we will do what we can.†Victor said “again my congratulations on your recent arrival.â€
“Thank you, First Lord, good day.†He said cutting the link leaving Victor alone.
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Landing Proceedure
Twin Suns, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
11th August 3111
While the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser Streaking Mist moved past the planet several DropShips descended through the atmosphere heading towards the war-ravaged planet. On board rode members of the First Rim Sentinenls and the the Liger Warriors Special Operations unit both of the District of Lesnovo military.
Below them the North and South continued to battle over the Badlands while units of Badlands itself continued to fight for their own people and for the people of Twin Sons. The Lesnovo Government had deployed their ground forces following word of a Clan uprising on the planet with the Liger Warriors themselves the descendants of former Clansmen they were deemed as the best people within the District to assess and if necessary deal with the forces on Twin Sons. Landing six kilometres south of Port Arthur the District of Lesnovo forces call for a truce in the fighting.
Mercenary Raid
Oberon, Independent World
Barrens, Periphery
19th August 3111
The world of Oberon had been a pirate world before it had been conquered during the Clan Invasion. While a Clan world it had been passed about between several of the Clans before finally being released by the Hell’s Horses to become a pirate world once more. As the planet had come full circle many believed that the population would fall into their old ways and saw the need to target Oberon and keep the locals in check which was why the Korbin’s Kommandos mercenary command had been deployed here by the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces.
Unfortunately for the Kommandos they were quickly finding that not only was Oberon now an organized world that it also had been able to obtain a significant amount of Clan technology. Leading his troops Lt Colonel Hermann Korbin was after eight days of cat and mouse fighting the defenders ready to withdraw from the world. Standing in the command tent he looked around the troops he had left he’d lost several BattleMechs and vehicles in the fighting but his people had successfully salvaged enough weapons and equipment to outfit several of their Mechs with upgraded weapons and captured a near pristine Blood Reaper Heavy BattleMech which Hermann was currently using as his own BattleMech had lost a leg during their initial battles with the Oberon defenders.
“Ladies and Gentlemen it seems the LIC has once again done us well†he said his voice full of sarcasm and not a little bit of anger. “Unlike what they believed Oberon is more than ready for anyone who decides to visit it and it appears they have been building links with their neighbours.â€
“So what now boss?†Ryan Yeader one of his MechWarriors asked
“The Colonel and our DropShips come in and get our ass out the fire†he said gaining much chuckles from around the table. We need to fast march the entire unit to these plains in the north. We need to keep the Oberon locals off balance while the heavies and assaults move to the plans.†He said “Carleson, I need something special from you guys.†He said drawing his hands across the table “your people are going to have to go overnight to raid this outpost we saw from orbit. This will make the defenders think we’re going after them but in fact we’re going to be on the other side of the plains ready to evacuate.â€
“We won’t last long against an entrenched positonâ€
“I don’t need you to. I need you to hit them, fade, hit them again and then fall back to join us.â€
“Then we should come over from here for the first hit†he said drawing his hand over the map to the opposite side of the base “then we strike the side on our retreat. They’ll think we’re softening them up and hopefully will keep their attention that way.â€
“How about we help them out a little?†Karen Jendo suggested she was above with the DropShips “Aerospace has been a little marginalized in this Op but since the DropShips will be coming into land we bomb the outpost in conjunction with the Mech Attacks cause a bit more chaos.â€
“And if local aerospace assets scramble to intercept? We could lose everything.â€
“We won’t use all our fuel in a couple of bombing runs and Twilight Princess has enough firepower to hold anything short of an assault DropShip.†She said naming the unit’s Fesnyng DropShip Hermann thought about it for a moment then nodded.
“Do it bomb them into oblivion and cover the light Mechs.†He commanded putting the fighters at risk might be costlier but they needed to get off the planet.
Hours later the mercenaries moved against the forces on Oberon with the light BattleMechs and aerospace fighters launching attacks on the Firebase drawing defenders attentions from across the planet. During the fighting two BattleMechs and their pilots along with four aerospace fighters were lost. With the main bulk of the Korbin’s Kommandos moving forwards towards the main landing zone Hermann Korbin marshalled his forces as the unit’s DropShips came in for landings the first being their large spheroid vessel the Union-class Pit Bull which landed vertically. Already the vessel was firing on the ground targets.
“Pit Bulls stay close to the DropShip, you don’t board until the armour is clear†Korbin commanded as several more defending BattleMechs and vehicles approached. Above them the unit’s Assault Triumph and Fesnyng were approaching their landings firing on the ground as they came down.
“Looks like the Colonel want’s part of the action†another of the MechWarriors said taking the DropShips in so close to the ground was dangerous but their pilots knew what they were doing. With a single pass completed their Assault Triumph, the Knightwatch, came in for landing while the other DropShip continued to cover them. In the air joining the Fesnyng was their aerospace fighters who quickly committed to attack runs against the ground forces.
“Vehicles first†Hermann commanded as the doors opened allowing their ground forces to withdraw both the BattleMech and Aerospace Fighters held the perimeter steadily the Kommandos were taking more damage as their third DropShip came in for a landing. “As soon as the Princess is down board by the numbers lance commanders your lightest or worse damaged Mechs first.†He ordered as their light Mechs began to return to their Kommandos lines “good to see you are back with us Leutenant Bruce.†He said as the scarlet coloured Stormcrow ran past him.
“Yes, sir, didn’t want to miss our flight. Shame really the equipment we turned to slag would have made for good salvage.†Penny Bruce replied.
“Next time†he promised her overall this mission had been far costlier than he’d expected as the defenders began to withdraw and the Kommandos boarded their DropShips.
Within a week of the Kommandos have withdrawn from the system and Oberon’s Government had denounced the raid as nothing better than a pirate attack. A month later Oberon signed an agreement with nearby worlds to form the New Oberon Confederation in response to increasing threats from nearby powers and interfering succession lords.
R&D Test Ranges
SLDF Command, Mars
Terra, Star League Protectorate
22nd August 3111
After years of R&D and testing on Mars and on Kittery the Star League Defence Force abandons its attempts to get an entire regiment of BattleMech Drones to operate in unison instead deciding to concentrate on strategies involving smaller units. The two regiments of drones are broken up into company sized units and spread across the Star League Protectorate worlds with the drones assigned to Star League Guard units.
As this decision is made the systems of Cor Carol and Alioth in the Lyran Commonwealth’s Isle of Skye complete their transitions to become new members of the Star League Protectorate following years of raids by Clan Wolf and little support from Skye in shoring up their militias. Unlike the Lyran model the Protectorate promises to raise defensive units on the planet but also announces that locally owned forces would come under state control. This action results in the formation of two new mercenary commands based on forces formally under the ownership of planetary dukes both are hired by the planets to supplement SLDF forces assigned to their defence.
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Jump-in, Sceptre
Horikawa, Independent system
Deep Periphery
8th September 3111
The battered Strike Cruiser Sceptre jumped into the Horikawa system which was a known independent system of the Periphery which flirted with being a member of the nearby Fronc Reaches but the nation had no real standing in the system. Immediately after entering the system the Sceptre’s advanced sensors scanned the space detecting several minor conflicts being fought throughout the system. In high orbit over the third planet of the system was a massive space station “The Ark†the place that Captain Jerry Harper hoped his WarShip would find resupply.
Off the WarShip’s port side, an Invader-class JumpShip hovered its shocked crew looking at the vessel. “Unidentified craft this is Captain Thomas Granger of the Fronc Reaches militia you have this system is contested and you have no jurisdiction in this system withdraw…†the Sceptre moved in rapidly firing weapons shooting out the after section of the JumpShip crippling its Jump Drive but leaving the ship mostly intact. There would be casualties on the ship but most of the crew would have survived.
“This is Captain Jerry Harper†the Sceptre transmitted as it began to move into the system. “We do not mean the people of this system trouble but we will defend ourselves. For those who do not mean us hostile action we are willing to trade with you fairly.â€
----
Three days later the Sceptre arrived near the Ark facility which appeared to be a collection of two Olympus stations and several smaller stations which had been connected together. Over the Ark facility were three DropShips moving around the facility and several aerospace fighters engaged in combat. “Situation report†Harper ordered
“Two Leopard CV DropShips and a single regular Leopard. The normal Leopard looks like it has been fitted to carry small craft and ground troops. The station’s defenders appear to be engaging them.â€
“Give me a general communications frequency.†Harper commanded to his side another officer nodded “this is Captain Jerry Harper of the WarShip Sceptre. All forces cease combat or we will open fire.†Within moments a jumble of replies came back into the CIC. “Filter them out!†Harper barked “I want the station commander first and foremost then whoever is claiming to be in charge of the DropShips.â€
“Yes, sir†one replied as a squadron of six aerospace fighters and one of the Leopard CVs turned to face the Sceptre.â€
“DropShip approaching our position if you continue to close on the WarShip Sceptre you and your fighters will be subject to defensive action.†Harper said as the DropShip and fighters continued to close on their position. “Weapons knock them down†he said as the communications system crackled to life as did the Sceptre’s weapons which fired to deadly effect knocking down the incoming Leopard CV and its fighters.
“WarShip Sceptre this is Administrator Logan Rosenzweig of the Ark station this station is currently engaging in defensive action against enemy boarders. We cannot accept new visitors at this time.â€
“Visitors? Seriously did he just see what we did?†one of the crew asked.
“Quite!†Harper commanded “target both of the remaining DropShips. Ark station Sceptre stands ready to support your efforts if we can expect fair treatment after this battle is over.†He said there was several moments of silence over the radio before a response.
“You will be dealt with fairly†Rosenzweig responded “we have enemy combatants in space around us and in sections of this space station.â€
“Communicate the locations we will deploy out Elementals.â€
“Elementals?â€
“Our vessel’s marines we are former Clansmen. If this is a problem then we can leave you to your troubles.â€
“We welcome your helpâ€
“Weapons released on both enemy DropShips and any aerospace fighters that wander too close.†Harper commanded “deploy Elementals to the station we will feed them landing coordinates as they go.†The Sceptre’s main batteries came alive crossing the vastness of space in seconds to shred both enemy DropShips in only a single salvo. The Sceptre’s capital barrage continued and while far less effective against the smaller craft the amount of fire put out by the Sceptre cut at least two of the aerospace fighters from space.
“The Konstantin is also breaking formation.â€
“Contact Banacek and remind him we want this station intact.â€
“Aff, Star Captain†Lewis said glancing back over a moment later “Star Captain, Banacek understands and will only provide fire support if it is required.†The Overlord-class DropShip and two Small Craft closed rapidly on the station with BattleMechs dropping from the Overlord and Elementals dropping from the small craft onto the station following coordinates provided by the station’s command.
“Lewis, pass to station command pull back their people and seal off that section to space.â€
“Station commander said they cannot comply, sir.â€
“Tell them to comply or they lose everyone they have in that section.†He commanded watching the Elemental movements on the hull knowing the movement from his people. “Communicate with Elemental Commanders hold blow for one minute.â€
“Station commander said he needs three minutes to effectively pull back.â€
“His people better hustle or anchor down then†Harper said watching their command deck clock tick down from one minute. When it reached zero charges were blown at five points on the station’s hull and the Elementals entered the station. Most boarding crews wore environmental protection just for this reason but few could hold up under a decompression and an attack by Elemental troopers. Within seconds all twenty-five Elementals were inside the hull and the battle moved from the outer hull to the inner hull of the station. While Harper had the facility to watch the Elemental cameras he found such battles confusing and distracting and instead continued to watch the general station activity and Banacek’s BattleMechs which had arrayed themselves on the sections around the section where the Elementals were currently fighting inside essentially allowing them to attack multiple points of the station’s hull if it came to it.
After what felt like an hour but was actually eleven minutes the first all clear was posted by the Elementals. Within the next four minutes another twenty-two all clears sounded with two Elementals not checking in with the troopers either dead or their suits too badly damaged for them to reply. “Let’s see how accommodating they are†Harper said “have Banacek keep his people in place and keep our weapons active but not targeting and have the Elementals evacuate that section back to transports.†He said making several rapid-fire orders as the Sceptre continued to hold on station near where their people had been deployed.
“WarShip Sceptre this is Administrator Rosenzweig welcome to the Ark facility please submit your supply requests.†He said no longer questioning the Sceptre’s actions instead taking in their results.
Ghost Bear Trial of Possession
Sudeten, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
12th September 3111
MechWarrior Morgan Ghost Bear is deploye by the Rasalhague Dominion for the first time fighting in a Trial of Possession against Clan Jade Falcon for a Trinary of the newly deployed OmniMech version of the Shirke BattleMech as the Bears retaliate for recent attempts by the Falcons to begin Harvest Trials again targeting the Bears production and Sibko graduates. The Bears are successful in winning the trial bloodying the Falcon’s nose and claiming possession over the OmniMechs. Morgan Ghost Bear piloting a Lobo 2 BattleMech he takes down an entire point of Elemental warriors and a light BattleMech during the trial before falling to a physical attack from a Jade Falcon BattleMech. For his efforts during the trial Morgan is awarded one of the captured Shirke OmniMechs.
Nova Cat Raid
Dicallus, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
19th September 3111
The battle had been a tough one but the First Nova Cat Vision Cluster had been successful in battle against the Fifth Taurian Hussars Regiment on Dicallus destroying the defenders. Now Star Colonel Sean Nostra was watching as his troops recovered their lost equipment from the battlefield.
“Sentry to Vision One, we have four approaching BattleMech Recovery Vehicles and several ground transports.†One of the perimeter guards communicated.
“Base Delta to Vision One, communication from Taurians.†His lead DropShip communicated
“Pass it through to me.†Nostra commanded a moment later his BattleMech’s communication crackled to life.
“This is Governor Helena Mieli to Clan raider the approaching BattleMech Recovery Vehicles and technical vehicles are our gift to you for your victory we hope this will be enough to stop further attacks.†The female voice said Nostra almost cursed that the locals were treating his Clansmen like common pirates.
“Governor, we Clansmen take what we want we do not need gifts…†He said he saw that another of his MechWarriors was trying to break in on the conversation and reached for the communication toggle just as his own BattleMech’s detected the rising radiation from the BattleMech Recover Vehicles. “No…†he whispered but by then it was too late from the two vehicles twin supernovas rose into mushroom clouds which quickly encompassed the remaining Nova Cats wiping out the First Nova Cat’s Vision Cluster.
News Conference
Star League Command, Kittery
Kittery Prefecture, Star League Protectorate
24th September 3111
While the new crews had known that Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion had been on Kittery for the last day meeting with Protector-General Devlin Stone few had expected a news conference to be held on the world instead expecting any announcements to be made when the Exarch returned to Terra. Instead however Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion dressed in a white military uniform with green epilates on the shoulder, a Star League Defence Force Cameron Star on the right breast and his various campaign medals on the left breast.
“Ladies and gentlemen during my discussions with Protector-General Devlin Stone it has been decided that the Kittery Prefecture will remain a holding of the Star League Protectorate and continue to be protected by the Star League Defence Force Regiments, the Star League Guard Regiments and the Star League Navy.†He said telling people things that they probably already knew “what will change for the Star League Protectorate is that the governing body on Kittery will be given full control over local matters for the Protectorate such as tax increases, financing schooling, domestic services and infrastructure. This will allow Kittery and its Prefecture worlds to grow at a pace that will suit them instead of trying to follow the line of the Protectorate and give people more control over where they wish to take their worlds. Initially Protector-General will lead the devolved government however we expect open elections will take place within three years.â€
While Victor’s announcement made little immediate changes, the longer-term changes could not be discounted with the Kittery government able to control how quickly its worlds develop. Being a devolved government, they could also make diplomatic moves and deals with their neighbours that Terra may not have been able to broker.
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Been too long but after helping out a little with Blacknova's AU I fancied writing my own so here we go another update
Grand Council Meeting, Council Chambers
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space
1st October 3111
Khan Canin Rosse stood in the council chambers pacing among the other Khans the anger radiating off of him. “The dezgra Taurians elected to use nuclear weapons in their defence of their nation instead of fighting like true soldiers!†He snapped “this cannot go unanswered, and it will not go unanswered, I demand that each of you stand with my Clan in the name of this Council and of our Founder and join this declaration!†Around the room there was murmurs from the other Clans but no-one spoke immediately causing the elderly Nova Cat Khan's anger to raise even higher. “Has some surat ripped out your tongues? Are any of you willing to empower the Inner Sphere and Periphery states by not joining this declaration? Weapons of Mass Destruction are not a valid weapon of honourable combat. Perhaps you prefer to use them as you are unable to defeat your enemies without them?â€
“You dare to suggest we would use such weapons?†Jana Pryde asked standing up looking at him angrily. “How do we know that your Nova Cats did not start with the use of nuclear weapons? Your Clan is against a far larger nation.â€
“Do you think that my Clan would need to use such weapons against an impotent nation such as the Concordat?†Canin asked angrily “my Clan has faced adversity on all sides…â€
“The Federated Suns does not count…†Khan Michael Hawkins of the Rasalhague Dominion said “we all know of your Clan’s peaceful actions towards them.â€
“Peaceful?†saKhan Katrine Devalis challenged “I can guarantee our relations with the Federated Suns are anything but peaceful recently we won control over the systems of McRae, Steinhatchee, Jesup and Cogdell while the Federated Suns recaptured the systems of Ebro, Memphis and Great Gorge.â€
“You mean they were gifted?†Amina Kerensky taunted the Wolf Khan not moving.
“If by gifted you mean Trials of Possession in which both side took losses then yes they were gifted in the way that items, places and warriors have been gifted since our Clans were founded!†Khan Canin Rosse his anger not dimmed by the interruptions. “Our dealings with our neighbours is not your concern. The actions of the Taurian Concordat are†he said finally turning towards Loremaster of the Clans Brennley Roshak. “Loremaster to allow this to continue will invite the other nations to use such weapons against all of the other Clans.†He said to the young woman who held the post “you know I am correct? I call for a clan wide condemnation against the Taurian Concordat.†He said looking at the assembled Khans.
“The Nova Cat Khan has made a motion, is there a second?â€
“I second†Khan Evangeline Clarke of the Sea Fox said
“Then it sent to a vote.†The Loremaster said moments passed and the votes fell in line as expected despite their failure to react to Khan Rosse's words none of the Clans could ignore the use of weapons of mass destruction against one of their number with all of the Clans voting for condemnation of the Taurian Concordat and all voting to class the Taurian forces as Dezgra whenever they were encountered. Following the vote the Loremaster stood from her chair “if there is no further business?â€
“Actually there is…†Canin Rosse said once more standing up from his chair.
“This council recognises Khan Canin Rosse of Clan Nova Cat.†The Loremaster said formally unlike her previous announcement she sounded more irritated than before.
“When the Founder brought the Clans into existence he created twenty Clans to rule our people. Over the years our numbers have dwindled until there are only the nine Clans represented here today. Less than half of our original number.â€
“Make your point Khan Rosse†Pryde said interrupting she like the Loremaster sounded annoyed by the Nova Cats continued hogging of the limelight.
“My point is that this council has the power to recognize the foundation of new Clans.†He said “it has already been done with the formation of Clan Stone Rhino many years ago and I think it is time to form another Clan.â€
“The Rhinos have fallen, they were not strong enough to survive, no new Clan will ever be strong enough to survive.†Hawkins of the Rasalhague Dominion said speaking again.
“I do not agree†Katrine Devalis said rising from her chair “as you know Clan Nova Cat has been fighting on another front as well as against its neighbours. Our forces have had successes against the Draconis Combine but in doing so we have also developed many of our own traditions…â€
“Traditions that your Khan should stamp out†Khan Teresia Cooper of the Hell’s Horses said
“Traditions that I have commanded are embraced.†Khan Rosse said putting down Cooper’s interruption “my people are changing.†Rosse said “in ways that can never be put down by a Khan, unless you are a Smoke Jaguar.†He snapped “I am a leader within Clan Society, my duty to my people is explore every option.â€
“Every option†Katrine Devalis repeated “Khan Rosse and I have both followed the rules and conduct of leaders of a Clan.†She said seeing a couple of disapproving looks “and this is the correct direction for our people.â€
“I call on this council to agree to the formation of a new Clan. And give this Clan a year to build its strength before Trials of Possession are placed against it.â€
“A year preposterous if they have grown like they have then they do not need such a length of time to build.†Khan Evangeline Clarke said obviously seeing a potential target.
“Tradition before greed.†Katrina Devalis taunted the Sea Fox Khan.
“I call for all of the Clans to vote on this.†Khan Rosse said addressing the Loremaster as with before on the previous vote. In turn the Khans voted on the creation of another Clan the Coyotes, Nova Cats, Fire Mandrills, Rasalhague Dominion and Wolves voted for the motion while the Sea Fox, Snow Ravens, Jade Falcons and Hell’s Horses voting against. With the vote passed by a majority of five to three the splinter faction of the Nova Cats was reborn as a new Clan which was to be named Clan Lynx with Katrine Devalis the first provisional Clan.
Together as one the Clans announce that Taurian Concordat forces would henceforth be classed as dezgra and that Clan Lynx stood with the other Clans. As part of the formation of the new Clan Nova Cat units begin to fight Trials to determine which would join Clan Lynx and which would remain within Clan Nova Cat. In total the best part of three Galaxies choose to join Clan Lynx with several individuals fighting Trials of Refusal to remain Nova Cats. Supporting these units five WarShips, a YardShip and two Merchant ships also join Clan Lynx. Although all the Clans agree to not attack the new Clan the same cannot be said for the nearby Draconis Combine.
Control Tower, Chang-an City Spaceport
Liao, Acamar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th October 3111
The young Leftenant ran into the Spaceport’s command room as a second salvo of flares lit up the sky followed by more explosions on the ground and on several nearby buildings. “What’s going on?†He almost shouted looking out the others on duty.
“Leftenant when one of the DropShips landed it immediately exposed hidden weapons and opened fire on anything within range. They are deploying combat vehicles…†he said as part of the building was rocked by an explosion.
“Where are the militia?â€
“Their barracks took direct hits from an artillery barrage! They’re in total disarray!â€
“Do we know what DropShip…â€
“LN5402…â€
“LN5402 are you sure?†The Leftenant demanded even as the others confirmed it his mind flashed back to the meeting he’d had just days before which allowed for a not insignificant amount of money to be transferred into his account if he cleared LN5402 to land when it came in system without all of the normal checks.
“Leftenant Patterson…†another of his colleagues said but Daniel Patterson was too in shock to answer as further explosions rocked the building.
The Night of Screams Massacre as it would become known would claim 72,657 lives mostly civilians but also including almost every member of the militia, of the spaceport’s staff and the planetary duke with the attackers only being stopped two days later after reinforcements from the other side of the planet.
An investigation followed showed that the attackers had specifically gone out of their way to target civilians specifically targeting large residential buildings trying to start major fires to maximise casualties, in an effort to do this all units carried ammunition capable of setting fires. Further analysis of their equipment showed that the raiders technology hailed from every side of the Inner Sphere and Periphery and all identification marks had been removed from their equipment. MIIO and DMI investigators prove that Leftenant Daniel Patterson accepted a bribe which got the DropShip through customs without checks and onto the planet unfortunately the Leftenant’s body is found within the wreckage of the spaceport complex and they are unable to bring him to trial. Locally Patterson becomes known as the Betrayer of Liao.
Beyond Liao support ships and personnel were sent to the world from the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate while accusations flew between the Federated Suns and Capellan Confederation as to the origin of the raiders. With neither side ready to begin a war over the incident the Star League Protectorate offers to deploy an intelligence unit to the planet to help the MIIO and DMI find out exactly who attacked Liao.
Border raids
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
18th Octber 3111
For years the raids had become a part of life of living on Carnwath, Izar and Zebeneschamali with the Isle of Skye Armed Forces either incapable or unwilling to stop the raiders the three worlds had spent significant amounts of money on hiring in mercenary units to supplement the defences provided by their national leadership. Questions continue to rise on all three worlds asking why their worlds are being left to fend for themselves against these raiders while still paying money to Skye and Arcturus.
Main Meeting Room, Stone Spirit Hall
Forbidden City, Strabo
Stone Spirit Space, Periphery
29th October 3111
Entering one of the main meeting halls on Strabo President Calvin McIntyre felt uneasy he had travelled through the Periphery with the WarShip Erinyes to negotiate with the Stone Spirits for access to their shipyard and hopefully their Clan weaponry. He stood waiting in the strangely Capellan architecture of the meeting room according to the rumour mill the Stone Spirits had stumbled on this world and half a dozen others which had copies of the Inner Sphere’s capital cities in the Twenty-seventh Century the Forbidden City had been in the best condition and they had set up in the system. Now McIntyre had left his recently reborn Cirincus Federation to personally negotiate to with the Stone Spirits other than the Capellan styling there was little to say about the room it there was a large table with built in holoimager, several comfortable seats and it had several windows overlooking a Stone Spirit training area the windows had no blinds or curtains and the carpet looked like it was the same one that had been there since it was originally occupied by the Rim Worlds Republic.
From one of the side rooms the Stone Spirit Khan Eli Furey entered he was a large man but wore a simple utility jumpsuit devoid of any insignia Calvin only recognized him because of the intelligence reports he had read. “President McIntyre welcome to Strabo, I thank you for making the trip personally.â€
“Your negotiators made it quite clear that we could not do business without my presence.â€
“Aff, leader to leader is important, Mr President†he said in response “and your WarShip is quite an impressive show of force.â€
“Where I go it goes and you were gracious to allow it to enter this system I thank you.â€
“Aff, we have no concerns about your WarShip, we have no concern for any WarShipâ€
“Because you can produce your own?â€
“Aff, we have the facilities for this†he admitted “but as you know we do not have the resources to build fully operational WarShips.†He said it was the whole reason behind this meeting the for the two nations to work together to produce new ships.
“Then how can you not be concerned with enemy WarShips? I know you have some vessels of your own and that you have the capabilities to create nuclear weapons†McIntyre said testing the waters “but you have not deployed any near your jump points.â€
“We have no needâ€
“My WarShip could flatten this world†McIntyre warned
“And I could destroy it in a second†he said bringing up a holo-image from the main table displaying an image of a stripped JumpShip which looked like it had been stripped of almost all systems required for long range travel. “A faster than light torpedo.â€
“That is impossible!†McIntyre nearly shouted in surprise “it is a concept that has not worked with decades of research.â€
“One of your order’s scientists helped us refine it Acoloyte McIntyre†the Khan said taunting the President a little showing that the Stone Spirits knew a lot more than he expected the fact that they knew of his past and were still willing to speak to him told McIntyre a lot more about the people he was dealing with.
“Impressive, Khan Furey†he admitted
“Thank you, Mr President, now that we understand where each other we can negotiate.†Furey finally said shutting down the projector and opened his hand inviting McIntyre to follow him into another room adjacent to the meeting room there McIntyre found that the Stone Spirits had prepared some food for them to dine as they negotiated.
“I am looking for supplies of Clan weaponry to safeguard my nation against raids from the Rim Collection, Lyran Commonwealth and Free Worlds League.†He said as he sat cutting right to the point of the talks.
“So many enemies for such a small nation.†The Khan said cutting into a large piece of beef that was on the table moving some of it to his plate McIntyre did the same as they continued to speak.
“These powers have destroyed my nation once, they hate the existence of my Federation, I do not wish it to happen again.†He explained trying the drink that was on the table finding it to be a vintage Lyran wine which had to be worth tens of thousands on the open market.
“We can provide you with weapons but what can you provide us?†The Khan said drinking from his own glass instead of treating it with the reverence that the drink would have received in the Inner Sphere the Khan drank it almost like it was a public house beer.
“We have natural resources that we are set up to mine and transport to wherever you wish. We are also able to provide you with manpower and equipment to fully exploit the territory you already control.â€
“You think we are not able to do this ourselves Quineg?†Khan Furey asked using the Clan word to question the man if it phased McIntyre he did not show it. As Furey continued to eat he observed and listened to McIntyre who's Word of Blake education showed as he approached things.
“No, I believe you are more than capable, your FTL Torpedo proves this†he said still barely believing such a thing existed. “We could help you build more, more weapons to force your enemies to respect you like your people should be respected.†He said trying to play to the Clansmen’s ego “and in exchange you could help my people survive against the enemies at our gates.â€
“I believe we can come to some sort of an agreement.â€
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Good to see you are back on this NC.
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I started writing today and did not realize it was May the last time I wrote anything :o really shocking. Anyway I hope you all enjoy this little edition.
Downtown, Chang-an City
Liao, Acamar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Sun
2nd November 3111
Leftenant Peter Mattlock could not believe the damage that had been done to downtown Chang-an City on the world of Liao. By all accounts in a few short hours half of the city had been demolished by raiders that carried weapons specifically attuned to causing property damage and civilian deaths. Mattlock’s detachment from the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry had been among the first to attend the call for assistance and now the entire brigade was on its way to the system. Sitting in the cockpit of his factory new CN11-0 Centurion OmniMech Mattlock couldn’t help but shake his head the OmniMech, the most advanced model of Centurion ever built, hadn’t seen combat yet against an enemy of House Davion and was at this moment being used as an oversized crane with its normal weapons array completely replaced with a pair of fully articulated hands and a pair of lifting harnesses on the back. He had carried in medical supplies, food and water with the harness when they had arrived and was not using the Centurion’s hands to hold up a collapsed building beam while medical and search and rescue teams did their work.
Mattlock didn’t actually have to do all that much pick up and hold the building in place his OmniMech for all of its advanced equipment was nowhere near capable of moving the building or steading it completely instead he would brace it until it was cleared then they would move on. Sitting in the cockpit Mattlock had some music on low as he waited for the ground team some might see it was bad-taste to be listening to New Avalon’s finest rock band while people searched for survivors but it kept Mattlock sane as he held position for the work to be done. Suddenly his sensors pinged up three new contacts entering the street none were bearing AFFS markings or identification markers.
“This is Able Three to Able One, I have three unknowns entering MacDonald Street please advise.â€
“That’s the New Canton Guard Regiment, they and Elgin Guard are assisting with recovery operations.â€
“The SLDF?â€
“That’s correct Mattlock we might be part of House Davion’s army and be proud of it but we don’t tell people willing to help to turn around understood Able Three.â€
“Understood sir†he said as a Crusader BattleMech and two recovery vehicles belonging to the New Canton Guard closed on his position. “I’ll welcome anyone who saves lives today.â€
“Right attitude, Able Three, carry on your good work.†His commander replied before cutting the link Mattlock rolled his eyes as he continued to brace the building for the supply team. This was not the test he expected for his brand-new OmniMech he couldn’t wait to test it against enemies of the Federated Suns.
Trial of Possession, Proving Grounds outside Silverdale
Alshian, Alsian Province
Rasalhague Dominion
18th November 3111
On the Proving Grounds outside Silverdale Morgan Ghost Bear climbed down from the Ursus BattleMech he had used during today’s Trial of Possession. As he reached the ground Loremaster Boris Jorgensson approached the battered Ursus. For the last thirty minutes the Loremaster had witnessed Morgan battle and defeat a trueborn Ghost Bear warrior piloting the same type of BattleMech. The Ursus was nothing like his own Shirke OmniMech but the trial had demanded that both Warriors were given an equal chance of success in winning the battle. After two days becoming acquainted with the new BattleMech the two warriors had met in combat outside the Rasalhague Dominion capital city.
“Morgan Ghost Bear, you did today and have earned the rank of Star Commander and with that you have agreed to take on the responsibilities that rank gives you.â€
“I have agreed to this.â€
“Then Star Commander Morgan Ghost Bear you will begin your new duties tomorrow once a command that needs you has been accepted.â€
Public announcement
Imperial Palace, Imperial City
New Samarkand, Military District of Midway
21st November 3111
Warlord Hirohito Kurita, the defacto leader of the Draconis Combine, stood in front of the tri-vid camera dressed in the full military uniform of the Draconis Combine Mustered Society with all the military awards he was due and addressed the nation. “People of the Draconis Combine you all know me my name is Hirohito Kurita. I am the son of Minoru Kurita and before the recent unpleasantness Coordinator Akira Kurita made elevated me to the position of Warlord in recognition for the service I had shown to the Draconis Combine and the duties I would now be required to complete.†He said taking a brief pause to sip some water from a glass with the emblem of House Kurita on it “I have heard that there have been questions regarding the absence of Coordinator Akira Kurita and his wife the Lady Julia Kurita. It is my grave duty to announce that the royal couple are in a state of grieving following the death of their unborn child. There was no error in this death simply a cruel twist of life. I would ask that their privacy be respected in this time. For the Combine.†He said saluting the camera before it shut off.
After standing there for a moment he stepped away from the camera towards his personal assistant a young woman in her twenties with exotic Hispanic features long curled dark hair and an all white business jacket and skirt. “Mia, I want that broadcast across New Samarkand tonight and across the nation by tomorrow.â€
“Of course, sire†she said bowing deeply in traditional Japanese style. “Should I set aside areas for flowers?†She asked gaining a surprised glance from Hirohito. “In condolence for the Coordinator and his wife.†She explained.
“Yes, make all arrangements do not stop any well wishers who wish to approach the perimeter but none are to be allowed admittance to the residential area.â€
“I believe the Imperial Guards know their duty…†she began but she saw the Warlord’s face change “but I will make sure that they know exactly what they need to do.†She said again making a deep respectful bow to the Warlord before withdrawing leaving Hitohita to his thoughts. Only a few knew the exact truth that Akira was locked in the Imperial Palace with his wife and that he was in no fit state to be seen by the public.
Command bunker, Southern Region
Allied States of John Marik, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
29th November 3111
The entrance to the High Command of the Allied States of John Marik opened to allow the District of Lesnovo uniformed officer to enter followed by two troopers dressed in Clan built Elemental armour that was painted in the colours of the Liger Warriors. The troopers remained at the main door way while the officer was led inside down a set of stairs to a holographic planning table.
“Colonel Dominic Nostra I presume?†One of the officials asked the warrior nodded “I assume you are hear to report on the surrender of the Badlands forces to those of the District of Lesnovo?â€
“Negative I am not Lord Commander Henley†the man said putting the other man and the other three people in the room on edge “the District of Lesnovo commanded me to find a resolution to this conflict through any means.†He explained “I by birth right have Clan blood in me so I and the Liger Warriors challenged the leadership of the Badlands to a right to command.†He said the man looked confused “a trial for the position of leadership through combat.†He explained unfortunately what I was unprepared for was the tenacity and skill of the Badlands fighters and I lost this battle.â€
“All very interesting Colonel, I am very sorry for your losses, but the Badlands units have begun to employ heavier fighting assets than have ever been seen on Twin Sons. We cannot hope to counter them what is your solution?†Henley demanded turning his back to the man only to hear a click of a weapon’s safety being switched off.
“With that loss I surrendered command authority of my forces to the Badlands fighters as well as my loyalty.†He said now speaking to Henley’s back “the heavier forces they are employing are forces that belong to the District of Lesnovo. The only way for those to be returned to their rightful owners is for you to surrender totally now.†Behind him up the stairs there was a brief rattle of a machine gun firing before more silence as one of the Elementals defended themselves “already blood has been spilled today Lord Commander. I do not want the next to be yours but if it is necessary then it will. There will be total peace on Twin Sons one way or another.â€
“The North will continue to resist occupation.†Henley spat only just able to comprehend that he had just given his mortal enemies a compliment.
“If they do I fear for them as the Badlands forces wish for a final peace on this world as does Lesnovo.â€
“Peace at the end of a gun.â€
“If you walked the Badlands you’d know that the forces there do not keep the peace by the gun.†Colonel Nostra said defending the people from all the stories he had heard about their ancestors the current generation of warriors in the Badlands failed to live up to the brutality their people were known for.
“We can stop calling them the Badland forces Colonel Nostra, they are what the people of the Inner Sphere hate and fear more than their neighbour. These people you have thrown your lot in with are an incarnation of the Smoke Jaguar Clan everyone knows it despite the attempts to hide it. Their WarShip routinely passes over our cities as a constant reminder of their power over the Badlands and a reminder that we should fear them. Now with your help they have done the impossible and destroyed their first Inner Sphere nation.â€
“Then you surrender?â€
“I surrender†Henley said glancing over his shoulder at the gun still pointed at him “order all of our forces to stand down and return to their barracks. The Smoke Jaguars have won.†He commanded the others in the room.
“Thank you, Lord Commander,†Colonel Nostra said gritting his teeth he pulled the trigger and shot the man in the back of his head blood spattered over the table and the former commander of the Southern Region on Twin Sons slumped to the floor. “Carry out his last orders or each of you will face his fate as will all of your families. This ends like this or more blood will be spilled.†He warned them all despite his thoughts that the Badlands people were less brutal their commands had been very direct and for the good of his own unit and his own peoples families Colonel Dominic Nostra had agreed to go along with the orders despite his own misgivings. Dominic knew that once the truth of what happened today came out that he would be charged with murder and the Badlands forces rule over the South and possibly even the Badlands would be brought into question but for now he'd have to live with it.
Within the hour forces belonging to the Badlands had moved into all fortified stations of the southern region and arrested or executed every leader of the Allied States of John Marik. The victory had not been bloodless but the people of the south did not appear to be interested in resisting their new rulers.
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I started writing today and did not realize it was May the last time I wrote anything :o really shocking.
I can identify with this, brotha. Good to see your still at it! ;)
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It was a long week
Memorial Site, Duke Anton Marik’s Mansion
New Delos, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
3rd December 3111
Walking through the still ruined forests and rubble of Duke Anton Marik’s Mansion on New Delos Ralph and Javier Halas were overawed by what they were seeing the battlesite had been preserved by successive rulers of New Delos as a reminder of what happened when one rebelled against the leadership of House Marik. The mansion was the site of the final battle of Anton Marik’s Revolt against the leadership of Jonas Marik when the Wolf’s Dragoons took their revenge on the rogue Duke and ended the Marik Civil War. The site was a popular place for tourists to visit on New Delos and the brothers had merged with the crowds seamlessly away together they had gotten away from their security detail during a state visit by their father to Matheran boarding a transport and escaping to New Delos how they hadn’t been stopped before leaving the system neither of them knew but they had fore filled their mission and now they were here in a place they’d both dreamed of for years.
Above the mansion a constant cloud covered the area almost like the world of New Delos would not allow anyone to see light in the place. As they moved around the facility Ralph and Javier saw the place that the rebel duke had been killed where part of the wall had collapsed crushing him. The body had long since been removed from the area but those responsible for maintaining the grounds had put everything back together recreating the exact result from his final stand against the Dragoons. Through the constant cloud cover red/yellow flares burned through the clouds as several BattleMechs hot-dropped towards the surface their jump jets on fire.
The crowd of people stood their mouths wide open as they began to see the painted colours of each Mech and their insignia that of the Ducal Guard of House Oriente the two twin brothers began to turn away from the flares but all they did was turn into members of their security detail who had been hidden in the crowd the whole time. Turning they saw their father’s Persus OmniMech land among the assembled Ducal Guard BattleMechs, they’d been had conned into believing that they had slipped away from their security when their father had been in control the whole time. The Persus quickly moved forwards towards them stopping a respectful distance from the memorial but close enough for everyone to feel the power of the seventy-five ton war machine the Mech’s external speakers crackled to life “boys you have been reckless coming here but I understand why you heard the call of New Delos wishing to throw off the yoke of Regulus and my Ducal Guard will happily return the Oriente flag to this world. With your dedication to the District of Oriente Ralph and Javier in the presence of these new citizens I am glad to announce that the Oriente Military Academy has accepted your applications to serve in the defence of our nation.†Their father broadcast to the entire group the twins looked at each other frustrated that it appeared that their father had not only anticipated their little rebellion but also used it as a political tool to retake a couple of worlds from Regulus.
Over the next two days the Ducal Guard supported by Oriente Militia forces captured the systems of New Delos and Varna destroying the Sixth Regulan Hussars and driving off the Fourth Regulan Hussars forcing the elite command off world and out of the system
Border conflict
Benjamin, Military District of Benjamin
Draconis Combine
16th December 3111
Strapped into his BattleMech Burton Davion felt the eighty-five ton OmniMech around him be buffeted by the wind of Benjamin as the Mech and two hundred others like it fell through the growing storm in Benjamin’s atmosphere. Around them flew dozens of Aerospace Fighters and assault DropShips as the Federated Suns upped the antie against the Draconis Combine and launched a full invasion of the Military District Capital world. Below them the anti-aircraft guns and surface to air missiles filled the air as the planetary militia, the Second Amphigean Light Assault, Third An Ting Legion and recently arrived Third Sword of Light Regiment attempted to protect the world none of the three units were at full strength and the militia was made up of warriors too old or too young to fight on the front lines. In the air the Davion Assault Guards, Davion Light Guards, all five of the Federated Suns Sword units and several special forces units fell on the world.
Toggling his jump jets to full burn Burton made the final preparations to land bracing himself for the impact as his OmniMech came in for a landing. The assault Mech landed with a crash running several steps forwards to cushion the impact. Immediately Burton saw targets for his weapons toggling the OmniMech’s Jump Jets to normal operation Burton raised the Templar III’s left arm like it was an extension of his own and pulled the trigger to his Clan-tech particle cannon. The from muzzle of the weapons a bolt of man-made lightning temporarily linked Burton’s OmniMech with an older model Combine Dragon BattleMech blowing a huge hole in the BattleMech’s torso. Accelerating forwards Burton keyed in the Mech’s supercharger accelerating to over eighty kilometres per hour cutting to the left then to the right dancing the Mech across the muddy ground as the rain pounded the ground around him. From the right arm of the Templar the LB-X type autocannon mounted there ripped open more holes in the Dragon while the torso mounted pulse lasers and left arm mounted medium laser added to the troubles the pilot faced. Unable to take more of a pounding the pilot ejected from his Mech as the ammunition carried onboard began to explode. Not resting on his laurels Burton looked at the horizon through the heavy rain and watched as six more BattleMechs emerged firing their weapons on the Davion troops. Despite being in an exposed position ahead of the other Davion troops Burton didn’t hesitate instead he launched the Templar back into the air pulling the trigger on his particle cannon this time striking an enemy Phoenix Hawk crippling the Mech’s right arm with his first shot. From behind Burton’s position missiles, lasers and autocannon fire pounded the Combine position as he came in for a landing immediately continuing his run forwards he saw that the BattleMechs were all of older models and smiled their intelligence had been correct they had landed beside the Benjamin Militia forces.
“Rip them up!†Be shouted into the communications targeting the Phoenix Hawk again this time with the autocannon tearing more armour from the lighter Mech which tried to return fire with laser fire but it was ineffective. From across the Davion line more lasers and missiles slammed into the forty-five ton BattleMech tearing it to pieces. Across the line Burton looked and saw all six enemy Mechs were under heavy fire from multiple positions and knew none would last long. Nearby his position several artillery strikes landed blowing new craters in the ground and sending mud flying everywhere. “Artillery!†He called a warning but he hadn’t needed to as a Davion Wasp BattleMech disappeared in a fireball after a direct strike from enemy fire. Launching the Templar back into the air Burton searched for another attack he saw a squad of the Federated Suns newest battle armour suit, the Fusilier, bring down a Combine Catapult with concentrated fire to its cockpit.
Despite their initial successes Burton had no intention on resting instead pushing forwards despite the weather and the increasingly heavy artillery barrages. He knew that there were more better equipped units out there and that the navy was still engaged in orbit with the FSS Black Prince and FSS Sword and Sun committed to the battle against the Draconis Combine’s Muashi and Pride of New Samarkand. The Federated Suns naval forces had a weight advantage but they were taking no chances Benjamin was more than a target it was symbolic of the mess that the Combine was in and of the strength of the Federated Suns which Burton was convinced he needed to prove after the recent troubles on Liao and along the Nova Cat border.
As he turned a volley of long range missiles slammed into his Templar’s torso throwing the Prince around the cockpit of the Eighty-five-ton OmniMech. The damage was minimal but it did determine his next target a Longbow support BattleMech which weighed in as much as the Templar but was exclusively equipped with long range missiles. Charging forwards Burton targeted the Longbow with the particle cannon as the Templar accelerated to a full run unfortunately the man-made lighting missed on this occasion filling the skies with light just as a natural lightning bolt lit up the skies above them Benjamin was showing its disdain for their presence. Another wave of long range missiles from the Longbow flew towards Burton’s Templar III but the First Prince was wise to the move turning his OmniMech first to the left then to the ensuring that the missiles that did hit were spread over the hull of the Templar minimising the chances of armour penetration. He returned fire with another particle cannon shot combined with an autocannon salvo this time both weapons tore into the Longbow’s light armour. A nearby four legged spider-like Bishamon tried to step in and help its ally firing medium range missiles and pulse lasers at Burton’s Mech but the First Prince was already committed to another attack this time firing the autocannon, pulse lasers and medium laser intent on keeping heat build up to a minimum. This time to autocannon smashed loose the last of the BattleMech’s torso armour while the pulse lasers and laser burned deep into the Longbow’s skeleton. From Davion lines long range missile and laser fire caught the Bishamon on the side throwing off its second salvo of missiles buying Burton time to finish off the Longbow with another particle cannon shot supported by pulse laser fire which cut through the armour and savaged the assault Mech’s gyro and engine a brief flare inside the BattleMech was snuffled as the fusion engine preformed an emergency shut down to stop a catastrophic explosion. Dancing away from the falling Longbow Burton’s Templar III was struck by a volley of lasers and pulse lasers while a hastly fired volley medium range missiles missed ripping more craters in the ground beside him. Burton twisted the Templar’s torso to track the Bishamon launching his own BattleMech into the air keeping a nearly constant barrage of pulse laser fire on the lighter QuadMech making sure the pilot wasn’t comfortable with what was happening and distracted from the other AFFS units which had moved in to flank them. Autocannon, lasers and missiles fell on the target from all sides rapidly tearing the QuadMech apart the pilot besieged from every side quickly offered his surrender admitting defeat. From behind Davion lines the AFFS artillery had finally countered the Draconis Combine artillery and silenced their opposition, the first battle of many on Benjamin was over.
In orbit the concentrated fire of two Mercury-class Battleships had been too much for the DCA defenders and both the Muashi and Pride of New Samarkand had been destroyed by Davion forces giving them control over the space around the world. Many of the Combine fighters had retreated to the planet but the Federated Suns beachhead had been secured. As the AFFS set up their defences they heard that assaults on Hagiwawa and Umijiri had gone off perfectly and the Federated Suns now had a presence on all three worlds. It would likely take months for them to secure all three systems but Burton sat in his Templar III’s steaming cockpit surveying his work today and smiled.
High Command Meeting, Unity City
North America, Terra
Star League Protectorate
20th December 3111
Dressed in a business suit with white shirt and a red tie Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion walked through the halls of the Star League Defence Force’s command on Terra it felt weird for him to be walking around in a military base without a uniform on but the people of the Star League Protectorate needed a leader not a warrior which was the whole point of this meeting. Entering the command briefing room he saw that Commanding-General Victor Focht, Protector-General Devlin Stone who wore their uniforms and several of the civilian leadership were already present. He out of instinct saluted both Victor Focht and Protector-General Stone before moving to his own position around the table. As he did several more civilians and a dark skinned Star League Defence Force Colonel entered completing those who had been called.
“Ladies and Gentlemen please take your seats†he said as they did he continued to speak “I have not been with you long but before he died Bannister Cameron had plans that he wished pushed through which will make the Star League Protectorate a more successful economic , military and political entity. He chose not to try to push through these changes because he believed if he as a member of the Cameron family was seen doing this then the Succession States would finally see a rebirth of the Terran Hegemony in everything but name.â€
“Is that not what the Protectorate is?†Devlin Stone asked “Exarch, I am thankful for the strength that the Star League Defence Force has given Kittery and the worlds around it but it’s hard to deny that the Protectorate is slowly becoming its own very distinct beast from its defenders.â€
“Exactly†Victor admitted looking at the younger man he couldn’t help but smile as he saw the stunned faces around him “I as an outsider have seen this for years but I have also seen the good that it has done for its worlds and for its neighbours. The Protectorate alone is not strong enough to stop the Succession States but its very presence makes it harder for the states to wage interstellar war on each other and has ensured that nations that need help can get it from an independent source instead of having to deal with potential rivals.â€
“But war still happens†one of the civilian leaders pointed out, Victor had read her file and knew she was Governor Sophia Bollman the leader of Liberty.
“War is natural of humanity. I’m sorry to be the one that says it but it’s the truth.†Victor said “the most we can do is limit it. In the meantime, the Protectorate needs to be prepared for the future. It needs to improve economically be more politically orientated.â€
“T’ whole point of t’ Protectorate wiz each world hid their ayne leadership and chose t’ be part of t’ Protectorate.†Clan leaders James “Jim†Campbell of Northwind pointed out in his deep Scottish accent. “Our worlds were tired of being led fae afar an’ wished our own rule but with t’ protection of a larger entity.â€
“And that will continue.†Victor promised Northwind’s representative. “Individually there will be no change but instead I wish to create this.†He said activating the holo projector built into the table which brought up a map of the Protectorate. From Terra lines extended towards the Lyran, Federated Suns and Wolf Empire creating three distinct zones emanating from Terra. At the “southern†arm of the nation the largest of the three zones was split into three by further lines. “Northwind, Thorin, Talitha, New Canton and Liberty five Economic Development Zone capitals.†He said “in each region these worlds will help coordinate each world’s development if a world needs more workers it will be up to the councils on each of these worlds to decide how best to support them.â€
“Which region is Terra in?†The dark-skinned leader of Talitha Prime-Minister Capheus Onyango asked.
“None of them†Victor answered “Terra remains independent with each of the five EDZ councils providing a representative to the Terran Council. They will be responsible for answering if a council fails a world in it’s EDZ and they will be responsible for guiding Terra’s own economic policy’s ensuring that Terra supports all other regions.â€
“I don’t see Kittery in your list†Stone pointed out
“No, the Kittery Prefecture will remain independent and will also be responsibly for the outer colonies in the Draconis Combine, Federated Suns, Free Worlds League and Lyran Commonwealth. Kittery will accept members of each world’s leadership while also providing representatives to each of them.â€
“These changes are huge Exarch our people will have to consult about the changes†Sophia Bollman said unsure if the populations of the Protectorate would agree. These changes could be the very thing that ripped the Protectorate to pieces.
“I know they are but they are necessary to give the Protectorate greater Economic and political balance. Bannister Cameron did not believe that the Cameron family should follow his legacy and lead the Protectorate unopposed. I do not believe that my family should rule the Protectorate.†He admitted before any of them got worried “instead I think the Protectorate should have it’s own internal mechanism for the future.â€
“You said military changes as well?†Victor Focht asked
“Yes, the Star League Defence Force is a fantastic organisation but its responsibilities take it across the Inner Sphere. Instead the Guard regiments and the militias that support it have become the Protectorate’s defenders however they are completely isolated from each other while the military as little to no influence in the leadership of each world.â€
“An intentional choice there was no intention on the Protectorate becoming a Federated Suns Lite.†Duchess of Thorin Katya Christifori pointed out she was the reluctant leader of Thorin and under this new plan a leader of one of the new Economic Development Zones.
“I know that as well†Victor said “but having an external support for each individual world and having a group that could pass on superior leadership and training to units on individual worlds could be beneficial. Which is why I propose the Knights Corps. A group of military officers that will travel the length and width of the Protectorate leaning support to where it is needed which is why I have invited Colonel Sir Said Taghmoui of the Knights of the Inner Sphere to join us today. Colonel Taghmoui will lead the effort to train members of the Guard regiments to fore fill this task and to help bind the various units across the Protectorate into one training and discipline regimen while also supporting worlds politically and acting as a go between worlds during trade disputes. They will be the eyes and ears of Terra and will help inform each EDZ of its responsibilities to its own people and to Terra. They will be independent of the SLDF and of the Guard units themselves and they will be answerable to this Council and to the Exarch.â€
“I never took you for a man who needed a Secret Police.†Devlin Stone said he was mildly alarmed by this development.
“Oh I do not†Victor said “but I think that this Protectorate if it is to succeed needs as much support as it can get, although I was not born on any of the Protectorate worlds I will ensure that it gets everything I can give it.†He said “to that end I have been able to convince the Medusans Mercenary Command to take a contract with the Star League Protectorate primarily helping augment the defence of Fenwick and assisting in training of our WarShips to defend against squadrons of heavily armed DropShip squadrons.â€
“That’s quite a prize†Devlin Stone admitted he had tried to convince the mercenaries to join his Prefecture’s defence several times but he had been unable to. “What did you have to give them in exchange?â€
“There are three Quixote-class Frigates in mothball at Fenwick we plan on refurbishing those vessels during mercenary’s contract time.†Victor explained seeing their shock at the trading of two WarShips to mere mercenaries “of the ships available the Quixotes are those of least use to the Star League navy and the seeing how the Medusans deal with their addition to their numbers will inform future development of our own ships and squadrons.†He explained he could tell that the others were not completely convinced he knew from the negotiations that the Medusans current commanders Admirals Harwood and Jellicoe were both looking forward to their retirement now the unit’s future had been guaranteed.
Periphery Assaults
Taurian Concordat
28th December 3111
With full WarShip support several Nova Cat Galaxies assault several systems of the Taurian Concordat launching their first wave of their assaults on the Periphery nation. The Nova Cats are able to quickly overwhelm the sparse defences of the Taurian Concordat allowing none of the defenders to fall back and support other positions.
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Nice update, looks like the Taurian's are getting what they deserve.
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Nice update, looks like the Taurian's are getting what they deserve.
It's not going to get better soon
Let's start 3112 with a bang or two. Hope you all enjoy
3112
Command Bunker, 2nd Protectorate Guard
Spitz, Taurian Concordat
9th January 3112
The office was filled with the smell of morning coffee and fresh toast Colonel Ian Milton sat at his desk and looked at the report with complete disbelief. Nearly a week ago the First Protectorate Guard, his unit’s sister command, had defended Erod’s Escape from a Clan Nova Cat attack with the use of Nuclear Weapons using such weapons to obliterate one of Clan’s WarShips and the Clan’s incoming DropShips and he was only hearing about it now. He immediately grabbed his desk phone and tried to raise the command tower “This is Colonel Milton†he said “I need you to put the base on an immediate alert and recall all leave†he commanded “what do you mean incoming contacts?†he said as the command tower relayed information to him “how the hell did we miss something that big coming in?†He demanded standing up from his desk the phone still in hand “that isn’t an excuse get our alert aircraft in the air…†he commanded “tower did you hear me?†He asked but instead all he got back was static instead he felt the ground move and the building he was in shake instinctively he dropped the phone the handset smashing on the concrete floor as he and everyone else in the office ran outside.
Stepping out of the main door of the Milton could barely believe what he was seeing as a little over a kilometre away the landing strip, command towers, hangers and the unit’s DropShips disappeared in a ball of flame. Suddenly further explosions leading from the spaceport to their position began to light up the ground. “INSIDE, EVERYONE INSIDE, NOW!!†Milton screamed in terror forcing the others that were with him back inside as the explosions closed. “Seal these doors!†He ordered moving over to a wall mounted communications station punching in his personal code he activated the PA system “All personnel seal external doors now!†He ordered hoping the bunker was reinforced enough to protect the personnel he had left.
For the next eighteen hours the bombardment continued causing two sections of the bunker complex to collapse but for the most part the complex held protecting the two hundred and seventeen inhabitants from harm. Unbeknown to Milton and the others in the bunker overhead a Nova Cat WarShip was taking its revenge for the nuclear attack on another member of it’s fleet the WarShip systematically destroyed every military facility and the planetary spaceport before leaving the planet behind broken.
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Thee days later Khan Canin Rosse spoke via HPG to the Taurian Concordat and surrounding areas. “I am Khan Canin Rosse leader of Clan Nova Cat. The incident at Splitz three days ago was an unfortunate consequence of Taurian actions over Erod’s Escape the use of nuclear weapons to destroy a Nova Cat naval asset was a deplorable act. We will not accept the continued use of weapons of mass destruction against out Clan in space or on planetary bodies will not be accepted. The first Star League Defence Force which our Clans descend from had a total war strategy for opponents who lacked honour we have dispensed with this in the past intent on allowing our opponents the chance of honourable combat. We are willing to allow you our opponents honourable combat, it is your choice.†He said pausing for a moment “the message that follows is for the current Star League council. Spitz was not Turtle Bay; casualties to the civilian population was minimised by our WarShip crew, Clan Nova Cat is not Clan Smoke Jaguar and the Clans are not divided in this.â€
Across the Inner Sphere and Periphery, the nations of the Inner Sphere began to react to the Nova Cat actions and subsequent reactions with several Taurian worlds contacting Fronc and the Capellan Confederation for support. Both Capellan Confederation and Fronc Reaches take it upon themselves to take over the defence of the worlds contacting them in a remarkably bloodless manoeuvre the Capellan Confederation absorbs five Taurian worlds and one periphery world while the Fronc Reaches absorb four worlds with the Third Protectorate Guards switching loyalty to the Fronc Reaches. Hearing of the Nova Cat actions the rogue WarShip Sceptre jumps clear of the Joppa system heading deeper into the periphery intent on leaving the Clan and any fear of what could happen behind them.
Elsewhere the SLDF vowed to support the Taurian Concordat as a member state of the Star League however as they did this the Loremaster of the Clan Council Brennley Roshak announces the United Clan Council’s full support for Clan Nova Cat and that any combined assault will face the combined might of all the Clans.
Military Spaceport
Station Rubicon, Lesnovo
District of Lesnovo
15th January 3112
As they had been promised the Liger Warriors had been returned to Lesnovo by the Smoke Jaguars on Twin Sons but without the majority of their equipment. According to their captures that was being held as Isorla, a Clan word for Spoils of Victory, so instead the Liger Warriors were being returned to Lesnovo with the majority of their personnel intact but without a single Mech between them, a deathkneel for any unit in the Periphery.
Stepping off the Seeker-class DropShip into the late evening sun of Lesnovo Colonel Dominic Nostra felt the cool breeze and knew there was a storm in the air. As he descended down the ramp several armed District of Lesnovo soldiers “Colonel Nostra by command of Duke Brewer-Cameron-Jones you are to be placed under arrest and your command restricted to quarters.†The Force Commander in charge of the unit said.
“On what charge?†He demanded feeling his people tensing up around him.
“Causing unnecessary harm to citizens of the District of Lesnovo, specifically to the people residing in the Southern region of Twin Sons, which has been levied at your entire unit. And for multiple counts of murder, namely the Southern region’s command on Twin Sons, a charge that is solely placed on you.â€
“Understood Force Commander†Nostra said he’d known such a charge was coming he just hadn’t expected it to land on his door step so quickly. “Stand down people follow your orders we followed the orders we were given.†He said evenly trying to ensure no incidents resulted in his arrest they had been told to end the fighting on Twin Sons and they had, not perfectly he’d be the first to admit, but they’d done the job they were given.
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Several hours later Colonel Dominic Nostra remained in the same room he had been escorted to in the command complex on Lesnovo. It was a non-descript interview room with grey walls, a two-way mirror, one door in and out a table and four chairs he’d been allowed to retain his personal effects so he’d so far tidied out his travel bag and read half of a fiction novel he’d started on the DropShip trip in system. The door swung open and in entered General Sanyam Dandekar immediately Nostra motioned to stand to attention but the dark-skinned man in full dress uniform waved him off. “Aren’t you a sorry state, what you got to say for yourself? Colonelâ€
“Sir, my orders were to end the fighting on Twin Sons due to our shared Clan heritage I challenged their leader to a personal battle and lost. As a result of this loss they used my unit’s superior firepower to overwhelm the Southern Region’s forces and force them to the negotiating table thus ending the conflict.â€
“Costing hundreds of lives†Dandekar pointed out “you missed that part out, Colonel, carry on.â€
“Yes sir, following this I was sent as an emissary to the Southern Region to accept their surrender. I then carried out my orders and executed the leadership of the Southern Region.†He said in a cold matter of fact way he could tell that Dandekar hated that admittance of guilt by him “sir, they had a gun to my people’s head they said that I follow these orders or my people would be killed.â€
“Who’s orders?â€
“Colonel Petra Furey, sirâ€
“So you went to the Southern Region and executed them bringing an end to the fighting.â€
“After the Badlands leadership inprisoned all officials from the Southern Region yes sir it ended all of the fighting.†He said “my unit was then released from their bonds however the Badlands forces have seized all of our equipment and are using it as their own.â€
“So you were sent to this planet to bring peace instead you create a bloodbath and give them more weapons than they had before? That about sum it up.â€
“Sir, what other choice did I have?â€
“Resist, resist the urge to cause death and mayhem, do what Furey has done in the North of Twin Sons.†He suggested giving Nostra options
“Sir?â€
“She has brought peace to the entire planet she brought Northern and Southern realms to the table with her own people and have created a ruling council. The loyalties of the past have been outlawed and now they are wholy loyal to Twin Sons. They did that peacefully after the ‘warmogers’ we sent in did their damage.â€
“They are lying through their teeth, sir, those people are not loyal to the Twin Sons they are loyal to the Smoke Jaguars†he corrected the General “sir, Furey is a dangerous woman she wants to see the rebirth of that Clan. The frakking Smoke Jaguars sir! The most hated Clan in the history of the Inner Sphere.â€
“Well at the moment that’s debatable†Dandekar commented confusing Nostra even more. “It doesn’t really matter what you think or what I think Colonel the facts speak to themselves. Petra Furey has brought peace to Twin Sons and now instead of three governments we have one to deal with which Lesnovo thinks they can handle.†He said from his tone Nostra didn’t think the General agreed with that statement. “As for the facts surrounding your case your people did open fire on people of this district, you yourself did become judge, jury and executioner for citizens of this nation. That alone costs you your commission and your freedom.â€
“What about my people?â€
“They have no equipment and now no commander they will be broken up and sent to other commands. Any found to have commited further crimes on Twin Sons other than those already put on them will likely face your punishment. Colonel Dominic Nostra as of this moment I am stripping you of your rank, command and freedom. You’ll be shipped out to a military detention facility until your trial and sentence can be heard.â€
“So much for being innocent until found guilty.†Nostra muttered under his breath
“What was that?â€
“Nothing, sir†he replied deciding that giving the General more now would not be a good idea. Everything had gone wrong in the span of a few weeks and now his nation’s future could also be in the balance with the rise of the new government on Twin Sons.
Warlord’s Personal Residence
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
28th January 3112
Warlord Hirohito Kurita stared at the tri-vid screen open mouthed his young daughter sat on the floor in front of him playing with toys. On the screen the message from Dieron continued to play “…my given name is Emiko Kurita I am the daughter of Vincent Kurita and the younger daughter of the true Coordinator Akira Kurita.†The woman on the transmission said she looked to be around her twenties age wise which fit and looked very similar to her mother when she was around that age from the pictures Hirohito had seen. She wore a scarlet Kimono with her hair tied up in a bun in traditional Japanese style her make up was minimal showing her natural complexion which all fit with traditional Kurita family style as she spoke Hirohito reached for a mobile communicator.
“Are you seeing this?†He demanded as the message continued. “It can’t be her I was told there was not a sign of her anywhere!â€
“…I disappeared from the Imperial City and many believed that I had been killed but in fact I was protected from assassins under the hire of Minoru Kurita, the current Warlord’s father, who intended on removing my line of our family to allow his own to gain control.â€
“What do you mean Dieron is refusing communications? They cannot ignore us we are New Samarkand I want that woman in chains. Contact our units on other worlds have them communicate with those on Dieron and demand her unconditional surrender. I will be there soon.†As the Warlord rushed to get ready the message continued.
“Hirohito Kurita has continued this trend by imprisoning Akira Kurita and his wife Julia in the Imperial Palace on New Samarkand.†Emiko continued “I have lived and worked with many of you under an assumed identity travelling across our nation as assassins continuously searched for my trail I have seen and felt the suffering that Warlord Hirohito Kurita’s rule has brought on our people. Which has led to my decision today to reveal myself to our people and to announce that the District of Dieron is succeeding from the Draconis Combine until Hirohito stands down from his position as Warlord of this nation and Akira Kurita is released from the Imperial Palace.†She said breathing deeply Hirohito stopped and looked at the screen in complete shock with Benjamin in enemy hands and now this from Dieron she may get exactly what she wanted. “I regret this action deeply but I will not allow our nation to be led by a tyrant I will do all that I can to ensure the Draconis Combine acts for its people. To the best for our nation.†She said finally before the message ended only to be replaced with the logo of the Military District of Dieron three red triangles set in formation forming a larger triangle with several small triangles extending from the base three behind them a yellow field. As an addition to the insignia the camera seemed to pull out showing a stylized Dragon held the insignia in its front paw with the Dragon’s head turned towards the camera.
Immediately following the message by Akira Tormark the Warlord of Dieron announced that he would be fully supporting Empress Emiko Kurita that Dieron would be set up as an independent nation until Hirohito Kurita left the throne on New Samarkand and Akira Kurita was released from custody. He added that all DCMS and DCA units in the District of Dieron had pledged loyalty to Dieron and to Emiko Kurita.
It would not be until the 30th January that Hirohito Kurita responded to the claim by Empress Emiko Kurita the Warlord claimed that she was a fake and that the real Emiko Kurita had died years before a fact that had been hidden from the public to save their nation’s morale. Behind closed doors intelligence officials were unsure of Emiko’s claim but also could not confirm her death from any source. The reason for Hirohito’s delay had been due to the High Command attempting to contact the unit’s and WarShips based in the region of Dieron and receiving not a single reply from these units it appeared the planning behind this had been quite thorough in clearing out those who were not willing to pledge loyalty to Dieron first and the Combine a distant second.
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Intelligence Meetings, Star League High Command
Unity City, North Americal
Terra, Star League Protectorate
4th February 3112
Multiple division commanders and department heads of the Star League Defence Force were sat around a table with Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion looking at the new map of the Draconis Combine and District of Dieron. Unlike his previous appearance as Exarch when he was dressed in businesss wear in this military facility Victor had chosen to wear an SLDF duty uniform today he acted as both the Exarch of the Star League Protectorate and First Lord of the Star League. “An entire District broken away†Victor remarked without a smile “I’m sure my father would have thought this was a just reward for them.†He said quietly he rarely spoke of Hanse Davion in public it was especially rare for him to speak of the legendary Federated Suns leader during his short time in the Star League Protectorate. While he couldn’t show it here his eyes picked out the “Benjamin sailent†the Federated Suns forces had carved out which had probably helped push the Combine to this break and he couldn’t help be pleased with his son’s efforts.
“It is something as unthinkable as the Capellans invading New Syrtis or the Lyrans landing on Marik or Atreus.†One of his commanders remarked
“Or the Clan’s reaching Terra†Victor said bringing focus back to the issue at hand, the defence of Terra and the Star League Protectorate. “Where does this put us?â€
“Sir, the Star League Defence Force units on Dieron have declared neutrality and will only act in self defence in any open war conflict between Dieron forces and those from New Samarkand. Despite our as a foreign force within the District I do not think that Dieron will ask us to leave instead I believe we may need to reneigotiate our positon with the District like we did with the Combine.†Victor Focht reported Victor nodded that had been his order as soon as he heard of this latest development his people would not be wittled down in civil wars that was not what his Defence Force had been created for. “Militarily I believe the Eridani Light Horse and the other units we have in Dieron are at less risk than the Star League as a whole may be politically…â€
“Go on†Victor said noticing the man’s hesitancy “any of you, if you think it is relevant speak up, I won’t hold your opinions against you unless they conflict with your ability to complete the orders you are given.†He said looking around the room wanting to make himself perfectly clear. “Victor continueâ€
“Sir, the Draconis Combine is a member state of the Star League Defence Force they provide funds, personnel and equipment to our forces. In return they are afforded support during conflict.†He pointed out “while Dieron has not become a direct threat towards the rule of New Samarkand in a military sense Policially it threatens to bring down the entire Combine…â€
“The Star League Charter specifically prohibits SLDF units engaging in conflict with two sides of a Civil War. Star League Membership or not.†Fleet Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald pointed out interrupting Focht caught the Exarch’s eye and noticed him nod for him to continue.
“Yes, Admiral but our problem may come when Dieron attempts to court us for weapons and arms in an effort to build their forces to oppose those of New Samarkand which I think they will unvariably do.†He said looking at Victor “sir, I believe that we cannot entertain these trades. Given the traditional feelings of the Draconis Combine towards the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth I think it is unlikely that Dieron will find support from either of these nations.â€
“So other than whatever deal we need to broker to keep the Eridani Light Horse on Dieron the District will be isolated.†Victor Steiner-Davion said rounding out Victor Focht’s analysis.
“I believe so First Lord†Focht noted “their only hope is the Federated Suns are able to hold onto Benjamin which will allow Dieron the time to build up their own defence force.â€
“Which I personally think they have a good chance of†General James Topher the head of the Intelligence Division said quietly looking to Victor for a nod to continue which he quickly got. “Sir, if we are to remain neutral between member state border conflicts?†the Exarch again nodded the Star League Defence Force was not strong enough to hold two Succession States apart and did not have the political strength to force them to yield. The only cases where they could interfere was when particular points of suffering were seen on a particular population due to these conflicts and even then it was dicey ground for the Star League which hadn’t been formed to force the Succession States to be peaceful towards each other but instead had been formed to defend against incursions by the Clans.
“Then now that the Draconis Combine have officially surrendered control over Benjamin I do not see how the forces of New Samarkand can hope to reenter, retake and hold Benjamin without sacrificing significant territory elsewhere. And to be brutally honest Benjamin itself is not that critical other worlds are far more important.†He said over the last few days the Federated Suns had officially declared victory over Benjamin and were fortifying their positions on all the worlds of the so called sailent. “Instead I think that New Samarkand will be doing exactly the same as Dieron in the short term building up their forces.â€
“Two sides of the same coin†Victor said using the ancient phrase to describe two views of a matter. “What about our other matter?â€
“The Taurians and Nova Cats continue to trade blows including the Taurian use of nuclear weapons.†James Topher said “we have received a message from the Clan’s Loremaster which states the Clans will support each other should we attempt another operation such as Serpent.†He explained “it does not rule out mutual support between states nor rule out the SLDF assisting in their defence.â€
“Good because they weren’t going to stop us†Victor Focht said
“No, we are not†Victor Steiner-Davion said glancing at a couple of reports “I want the Fourth WarShip Squadron to deploy and head to Taurian space. They can link up with the SLS Mopelia Island at New Syrtis then oppose Nova Cat operations in support of Taurian ground forces.â€
“A lot of older designs in that fleet†Admiral Fitzgerald pointed out believing they may take heavier damage against the modern Clan designs in the Nova Cat fleet.
“They are the fastest fleet that can be readied and deployed in a short period of time and they are the closest fleet to Taurian space.†Victor Focht noted. “We can also deploy ground forces to support them as well several brigades can deploy and support the WarShips.â€
“Are we likely to get assistance from the Federated Suns?†One said
“To assist the Taurians… I think not†another said
“We will work on convincing the other nations to support it but we need to concentrate on turning back the Nova Cats and proving this alliance is worthwhile.†Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion said “anything else?â€
“Two things, sire†the Star League Defence Force’s Protectorate Government Liasion Joseph Kennedy said quietly, he was dark skinned and dressed in a business sute which was in stark contrast to the others in military uniform, Victor forced himself not to roll his eyes at the man’s behaviour he had asked a dozen times for him not to address him as “sire.â€
“What is it?â€
“The first is public opinion in the Protectorate with the deployment of forces to the Taurian Concordat when there are still enemies at the gate.†Victor looked at his Commanding-General
“The Wolves have not moved from their systems in months nor have the Bears also you can pass to the public that none of the guard regiments will be leaving the Protectorate so defences will not be adversely affected.†Victor Focht answered for the Exarch.
“And the second?â€
“Sire, this is more political†he said carefully the SLDF officers technically had no place in this discussion but Victor made no indication he wanted them to leave. “Liao’s government have approached us looking for protection from further Capellan aggression which they believe is only a matter of time before it comes. Our humanitarian units are already on the world assisting in rescue operations but now they have asked for our protection politically and militarily.â€
“They do not believe the AFFS are capable of such protection?†Victor Steiner-Davion asked almost offended that Liao didn’t believe they could be protected. How the raiders had reached Liao unopposed was still an unknown but until the method was explained it could likely happen again regardless of the defenders.
“They believe that their world being held by House Davion is bringing more attention to it than is desired.â€
“Anyone holding that world other than the Capellan Confederation will gain attention.†Victor Focht commented
“I agree†the Exarch agreed “reject the proposal for now but I’d like to rotate some more Star League assets through the area as a show of force.â€
“Transit to Taurian space could be sent through Liao and the neighbouring systems.†Victor Focht suggested it was a direct route through the region. Normally troops would have been sent on a more circular route perhaps through Defiance before heading for Taurian space.
“Agreed other than that we’re stepping on the AFFS toes. I will try to contact Burton, the First Prince, and schedule further units to be rotated through the area.†He said trying not to show that he still had too much influence over Federated Suns matters. “Feed back through your channels that Liao will be protected.
Parade Ground, Tatsuyama City
Dieron, District of Dieron
10th February 3112
In their first public appearance newly, named Empress Emiko Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark are shown by tri-vid cameras inspecting the BattleMechs, vehicles and Battle armour suits of the newly risen First, Second and Third Dieron Imperial Guard Regiments. While only a little more than a reinforced Mech Battalion and supported armour and Battle armour regiment each in size they were the first step towards Dieron building its own armed forces.
Hours later Emiko Kurita announces the creation of the Azami Prefecture which would give the Azami based in the District of Dieron their own political power as well as religious freedoms in exchange the Empress calls for a reformation of the Arkab armed forces to serve Dieron. A few days later the First Arkab Messengers are formed on Arkab by the end of the year it is planned for six more combined arms units to be formed one on each of the Azami worlds with all maturing to full BattleMech regiments by 3120.
Assault Force
Surcin, Arcturus Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
28th February 3112
Haumptman Amanita Caplan ducked her Shaman OmniMech to the right avoiding a Clan Long Range Missile salvo her fifty-five ton Mech low enough to the ground so it completely avoided the incoming missiles. She raised the Mech’s right arm and returned fire with the large laser mounted there narrowly missing an incoming Hell’s Horses OmniMech before running on. “This is Scrab One repeat Scrab One†she called out but all she heard was jamming as a fast hovercraft with Hell’s Horses markings shot in front of her firing short range missiles into the Shaman one struck the cockpit throwing Amanita around the cockpit. As she reorientated herself the Shaman’s short-range missile rack achieved a lock and half a dozen missiles bore into the hovercraft as she moved the OmniMech forwards striking out with her OmniMech’s left arm she felt the fist strike the turret before the retractable blade shot out puncturing the cabin killing the crew of the Hepheastus. “That’s for the Guards. This is Scarab One calling command†she called out again as she did autocannon fire raked the back of the arm right to the limb’s shoulder joint shattering it “shit!†She screamed as the arm and the blade were ripped off by her OmniMech’s continued motion. “This is Scarab One Oupost Echo 16 has been overrun by Hell’s Horses troops. I’m all that’s left†she communicated not knoing if anyone else could hear as her Mech moved she fired a laser blast wildly in her defence as a Gauss rifle blast and missiles slammed into the back of the OmniMech.
The Shaman staggered under the hits heading away from the Hepheastus Amanita fighting to continue the keep the OmniMech standing she saw damage to the OmniMech’s gyro but the Shaman’s Heavy-Duty gyro allowed her to ignore it. What she couldn’t ignore was the red marks that were all around her OmniMech. “Scarab One to base Area 16 has fallen, I repeat Hell’s Horses troops control Area 16†she transmitted as another salvo of weapons fire cut into her OmniMech striking the SRM storage container even as the CASE system saved the Shaman from total destruction Amanita felt it begin to fall and triggered the eject system. Unfortunately, the system sent her command chair through the air backwards towards the outpost into Hell’s Horses territory and into Amanita’s new life as a bondsman of Clan Hell’s Horses.
Elsewhere on Surcin and nearby Garrison the Hell’s Horses launched joint assaults on the Third Arcturan Guards RCT, the militia and mercenaries that supported them. The elite Regimental Combat Team fought bravely on both worlds but they had little chance and were forced into retreat with the aerospace wing and escorting assault DropShips destroyed by Hell’s Horses WarShips as the unit retreated. These assaults further isolate the contested Odessa system and threaten Arcturus with capture by the Clans.
The Shaman OmniMech is from here
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=61091.0 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=61091.0)
Hopefully Empyrus doesn't mind the borrow
And I messed up I should have never used Victor Focht having two Victors in a room is a bloody nightmare
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I'm sure he won't mind DC, most recently I named a modified Summoner used by one of the Coyote Khan candidates the Shaman. It is a good name for a Mech design I think.
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I'm sure he won't mind DC, most recently I named a modified Summoner used by one of the Coyote Khan candidates the Shaman. It is a good name for a Mech design I think.
I think so too
Battle site
Junction, Proserpina PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
3rd March 3112
Running his Fusilier Battle Armour Suit forwards taking sniper shots against with the suits mugshot gauss rifle while the over shoulder machine gun churned out bullets keeping the DCMS units off position. From inside the suit Leftenant Duncan Sandoval could see the icons of the rest of his squad and the platoon around them moving and holding the ground around them. As they moved forwards Duncan saw conventional troopers, which made up the bulk of the DCMS raiding force, aiming their conventional weapons on the Battle Armour suits and smiled as he aimed his mugshot again at one of the DCMS BattleMechs while tagging several of the DCMS troopers with his suit's over shoulder gun. As he concentrated on hitting the BattleMech along with his squad their machine guns pinned down more than a platoon of conventional infantry their own weapons ineffectual against the AFFS Battle Armour.
Two days before the Draconis Combine had launched an assault on Ludwig and Junction intent on cutting off the Federated Suns’ Benjamin Salient and cutting off the First Prince who was reportedly still on the recently captured Benjamin. Duncan Sandoval and the other members of the Third Robinson Rangers RCT fighting alongside the Federated Freemen Mercenary Command were intent on holding the world against all adversaries.
In battle Sandoval’s Fusilier squad continued to target Combine Mechs while their machine guns sprayed infantry positions with weapons fire. The Fusilier was a slow Battle Armour suit on the ground and while it was jump capable to do so would have taken them beyond the infantry forces. “This is Percival One to Anvil†Sandoval communicated having an idea as he watched the fight happen in front of him.
“Go aheadâ€
“Sir, the infantry is slowing our progress, DCMS BattleMechs are falling back out of range and we’re going to be subject to long range fire.†He said continuing his fire.
“We don’t have an option. If you are out-ranged by BattleMechs fall back.â€
“But that will allow the infantry to hold our offensive, sir†Duncan said looking at his suit’s mini-map which displayed what was happening around him. With his eyes Duncan drew in movements with the units in his local area and sent them to his Company Commander “Anvil†around him his squad and the other squads covered his inactivity shielding him from fire.
“That’s a risky plan, Percival†his company commander said she was obviously aware of who he was and what it would mean to her career if she got a member of the Sandoval family killed.
“Yes, it is, think you can do it?â€
“Yes mam†he responded moments later a communication was passed between the units and quickly they were linked into his suit’s command processor. “Thank you†he said quickly communicating his orders the units adjusted to their new command structure and signalled they were ready. “All unit’s this is Percival†he said looking at the map one last time it was going to work “execute orders†he commanded launching his own suit into the air around him the other Fusilier’s did the same taking them over the infantry’s position. “Continue long range fire on the Mech’s keep them honest. Have support guns cover the infantry†he said each of the twenty Fusiliers kept firing long range shots at the Mechs while their shoulder guns covered the infantry. “Hovercraft move up use your short-range stuff to keep that infantry force down and target the Mechs.†He said walking his suit forwards slowly the enemy BattleMechs had realized they couldn’t escape by walking out of here and were now turning back to fight but they were taking heavier and heavier fire. “Percival to Brackon they’ve taken the bait.â€
“Understood, hold position†their commander commanded for a group of infantry and hovercraft now came the dangerous point. Neither the Battle Armour nor the hovercraft supporting them had the power or counter the incoming BattleMechs instead all they could do was hope they’d hold until the AFFS trap was sprung. To Duncan Sandoval’s left the ground exploded as an autocannon barrage landed nearby he knew he wouldn’t survive a direct hit from one of those and launched the Fusilier into the air.
“Keep moving†he commanded the troops around him watching as a hover tank took a direct hit to the front from a gauss rifle and he saw the armour peel open like a it had been hit with a sardine can taking it out of the fight. “We need support†he said blasting away at the enemy Mechs as even more entered the area. “Under heavy fire Draconis Combine forces concentrating in our sector†he called out as a light particle cannon fired by one of the Draconis Combine Mechs slammed into his torso shredding the armour on the Fusilier suit. “Additional enemy units all units begin to fall back…†he transmitted it was the last part of their trap and his words indicated to everyone that the DCMS had committed more people than they could handle. From both sides of the Combine force AFFS BattleMechs and heavy armour began to move in catching the Combine units in a hellish crossfire ripping them to pieces.
As it became a BattleMech battle Duncan Sandoval made his way back towards the area where he had left the DCMS infantry pinned down by the armour to take them into custody. As he approached the area Duncan saw the hellish sight that he had left behind with over one hundred bodies in DCMS camouflage. In the coming days he discovered that one of the troopers had produced a inferno equipped short range missile launcher and had blown up one of the AFFS tanks. The armour’s response to their allies being burnt alive was for the armour to open fire and kill every member of the remaining infantry force. It had been a decision that he had made and that Duncan would now have to live with.
With their BattleMech forces decimated in the attack the remaining DCMS forces had little chance of holding their positions instead they rapidly fell back over the following days before leaving the planet in AFFS hands.
Border Raids
Capellan March, Federated Suns
19th March 3112
With the Federated Suns still distracted with the Draconis Combine the Capellan Confederation launch assaults on bordering systems disrupting Federated Suns defences and transit through the systems. These attacks cause SLDF units transiting to the Taurian Concordat to detour around the Confederation/Suns border.
The majority of the raids are knocked aside by AFFS defenders and their mercenary support but the Capellan Confederation units are able to wrest control over Yunnah and Palos from Federated Suns control by the end of the month.
In response to the attacks the First Kathil Uhlans launch their own spoiler raids on the Capellan Confederation supported by the WarShips FSS Fire Fang, FSS Silver Shield and FSS Comet striking at the systems of Elnath and Old Kentucky before the end of the month before disappearing in Capellan space.
Clan Landings
Bjarred, Bjarred Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
24th March 3112
Stepping clear of the Overlord C-class DropShip Khan Katrine Devalis the leader of Clan Lynx walked the short distance between her landing zone and the meeting with her Cluster Commanders. “Good Evening, against us are the Second Sword of Light Regiment of the Draconis Combine it is one of their most best equipped units.†She said greeting the other who stood around her she had brought together her best four Clusters to conquer this backwater world. “The commander that wins this battle will become my new saKhan. The cut off bid is three clusters.â€
“I will take this planet with all four of our Clusters and the aerospace fighters from our WarShip. Minus the three other cluster commanders present.†Star Colonel Tyler West the hulking Elemental said looking down on the other three leaders he was the commander of the 201st Nova Cat Roar Cluster of Katrine’s own Galaxy a very experienced officer but he was cautious compared to the others.
“I will take this planet with three Clusters, two trinaries and the aerospace force.†Chelsea Drummond of the Seventh Nova Cat’s Roar Cluster said.
“Three clusters and aerospace support†Stewart Bravos the commander of the 65th Nova Cat’s Roar Cluster said.
“Three clusters†Gerard Nova Cat said he was the only one present who did not have a Bloodname and he was the commander of the Fifth Nova Cat’s Roar Cluster.
“And aerospace support quiaff?†Khan Katrine Devalis queried.
“Neg, I bid those away also, the internal support of the Clusters will be enough. I bid the Two Hundred-and-first, the Sixty-Fifth and the Seventh. I will command the Seventh.†He said removing the Khan’s own Upsilon Keshik from the battle roll not only was it the most experienced unit present it also would deny Khan Devalis a chance of honour in the battle curiously he had also removed his own Cluster from the battle roll. This would put him with people he had not fought with and without the best unit the Lynx Clan had on offer on the planet.
“It cannot be done†West said
“Aff agreed, you need the Keshik to counter the best that the First Sword have on offer†Bavros agreed
“I withdraw from the bidding†Chelsea Drummond stated “I request to join the battle roll under Gerard Nova Cat’s Command.†She said surprising the others. Following her statement of support neither of the others spoke unwilling to go below the cut off for the trial.
“It appears you will command this Trial Star Colonel do not fail us†Khan Katrine Devalis said Gerard Nova Cat nodded as the Khan, West and Bavros left.
“Why support me?â€
“After this battle those that survive will be in line for promotions. I wish to command our Clan’s naval forces and have a chance to become the first Oathmaster of our Clan.â€
“Ambitious goals but why support me?â€
“Because you are stupid enough that you may actually win this battle. I wish to support you in this challenge.â€
“Fine, key to the success of this battle will be the aerospace forces, we all saw that was our advantage against the Draconis Combine forces.â€
“Which is why you bid away your own Cluster, it has no aerospace forces.â€
“Aff, I wish for you to command the combined aerospace forces at our disposal cull them from all three clusters and put them together in one unit. I want you to eliminate the Combine LAM force as your first priority which will cut the Combine’s wings.â€
“They have conventional fighter squadrons based on Bjarred, at least three†she warned
“They are not a concern against aerospace fighter squadrons but they will be your second target.†He explained to her showing he had considered them. “I will take our ground forces against the Sword of Light and challenge them to an open battle the samuri will not be able to stand down to an open fight.â€
“And if your forces are fighting honour battles in one battle you do not need Cluster commanders to command independent operations. These are veteran MechWarriors of the Combine they will not fall easily.†She warned him
“Neg they will not†he admitted “but their units tend to fight stand up battles per regimental lines. They are more like Clansmen than they like to admit. We will challenge their BattleMechs to battles which will isolate them from their support units until it is too late.â€
“Too late? They still outnumber you.â€
“Not once you have dealt with the LAM force and the conventional fighters. Following those actions you will conduct bombing attacks on their unchallenged units throwing their support lines into chaos.â€
“And if they have ground defences against aerospace forces?â€
“You may engage them.â€
---
Hours later Clan Lynx were involved in an open battle as planned by Gerard Nova Cat they were taking losses but the superior Clan technology was making up for the numbers against them. In the air Star Colonel Chelsea Drummond had successfully wiped out the LAM unit and the conventional fighters and they were now making their way through the Anti-Air units in Combine unit unfortunately they were taking heavier losses against the heavier numbers of the ground forces. Commanding from his Warhawk OmniMech Gerard Nova Cat could see the battle slowly turning against them and he had to make a move. “Star Colonel Gerard to Khan Devalisâ€
“Star Colonel, go aheadâ€
“My Khan, I plan to win this trial but I wish to recall my last bid from the original bid, two aerospace stars from the Santin West configured for ground support†he said targeting an enemy BattleMech with two particle cannons.
“Those fighters were being reconfigured for aerospace fighting.â€
“I know that two Stars are still configured for ground support.†He said triggering his OmniMechs taking down the enemy Shadow Hawk.
“You will lose honour for this today†Devalis warned “and will likely face a Circle of Equals for this.â€
“I understand and I will win these battles.â€
“The fighters are on their way use them well.â€
“Affirmative†Gerard answered switching channels “Star Colonel Drummond reinforcements are on their way use them wisely.†He commanded as his Warhawk was rocked by a tightly grouped long range missile salvo. A second salvo quickly followed slamming into the OmniMech’s right torso. He quickly lined up another shot this time on a Combine Black Hawk KU OmniMech which weighed in at half the size of the Warhawk and carried half the firepower but none of it was LRMs. Gerard quickly switched frequencies to a general Lynx frequency all units they have begun to concentrate fire, fire at will.†He commanded instead of targeting individual warriors the Lynx warriors now opened up on multiple different units concentrating fire while the aerospace fighters also now targeted the enemy BattleMechs.
From all sides the Sword of Light was under fire with multiple downed BattleMechs and knocked out armoured vehicles in quick succession. The Sword of Light fell back rapidly pulling away from the battle. Gerard slowed his Warhawk to a walk keeping his weapons on enemy targets but silent. “Clan Lynx hold position.†He said switching frequencies again to general military channel. “Sword of Light surrender this battle and we may be able to allow you to survive today. Continue to fight and we will destroy you.â€
“We will not surrender, for the Combine†the female voice responded the Combine forces then turned and returned to battle their formation restored.
“You cannot win.†He broadcast again “but we will honour you with a warrior’s death.†He said from all sides the Lynx warriors poured fire on the remaining Sword of Light warriors with air superiority as well the Combine warriors stood little chance. Gerard was impressed with their discipline, as they took more weapons fire from all sides the Sword of Light warriors pulled more together holding up under the enemy fire pushing further and further into the Lynx lines taking many of the Clan warriors with them.
Today Clan Lynx were victorious but at a cost of nearly two Clusters. Khan Katrine Devalis commanded that the three Clusters that had fought in the battle be retained on the rolls of Clan Lynx but they were more paper than flesh, blood and steel. Following the battle Gerard Nova Cat was challenged three times by other Lynx Star Colonels for the position of saKhan but he bested them all. He then went onto win a Trial of Bloodrite at the end of May to become saKhan Gerard Bedford the first of a reborn Bloodline which Clan Lynx had adopted from the records of Clan Nova Cat. With Clan scientists mixing Gerard’s blood, and others who had won Trials, with those of the Bedford line held in cryo-genetic storage to create a new Bloodhouse unique to Clan Lynx.
Within days of his appointment Gerard Bedford championed Star Colonel Chealsea Drummond to the position of Oathmaster of the Lynx Clan. After several successful Trials of Position she also became Star Admiral and commander of the Lynx naval forces.
-
WarShip Sceptre
Booker, Contested Space
Periphery
8th April 3112
“Prepare for microgravity†Star Captain Gerry Harper transmitted throughout the Sceptre. The WarShip had jumped into the Booker system which was currently being contested by the Magistracy of Canopus and Marian Hegemony to collect food and supplies. It was supposed to be an easy snatch and grab mission taking advantage of the two fighting periphery nations. Unfortunately, as soon as they approached the planet they had been assaulted by two Vengence-DC Pocket WarShips and their fighters. For three days the DropShips had hounded them with capital missile strikes and aerospace fighter strafing runs as they retreated towards the jump point. “Prepare for the jump†Harper said he said everywhere the Sceptre went they were hunted they had nowhere to go each jump he lost more people and the Sceptre became more unserviceable now they were low on ammunition, fuel and food he knew there wasn’t much left in the once mighty cruiser. Harper looked around the command centre at his battle-weary crew who more than anything needed a break and somewhere to make meaningful repairs to the Sceptre, not here though, “jump the ship†he ordered. Moments later the ship launched out of the Booker system and into the Astroskaszy the jump point was the site of fighting between two pirate bands. “Out of the fire and into more fire†he cursed “weapons free take out the enemy DropShips and JumpShips launch aerospace fighters.â€
“The Konstantin is also launchingâ€
“We’re not landing here what are they playing at? Get Banacek on the line.â€
“No answer, Konstantin are not moving to engage the pirates.â€
“Target their engines and prepare to fire.†Harper ordered overriding communications “Banacek listen to me I am ready to shoot you down if you do not return.â€
“We are not your prisoners, Harper†Banacek responded as the Overlord continued to move away “the Sceptre’s path is coming to an end. My people will not go down with you.†He responded “which is why I ordered my men to place explosives inside your docking collars and cargo bays. If you do not stand down your weapons I will remotely detonate them and open your ship to space.â€
“Our weapons will obliterate you.†Harper said around him the crew of the Sceptre continued to deal with the local pirate forces each of them acting almost like they were on automatic.
“Then we are at an impasse.†Banacek said Harper watched as the Overlord continued to pull out of the area “Harper let us leave and once we are out of your range the explosives we have planted will become inert and no longer dangerous to you. Attempt to attack us and as soon as you fire I will detonate them.â€
“Deal†Harper cursed watching as the third and last enemy DropShip was destroyed one of the enemy JumpShips had been disabled which may allow them to capture some supplies but they knew this system would also be a bust now that the Konstantin had abandoned them. “Abandon weapons lock on Konstantin. Complete mop up operations and have Quinn Shu take her Elementals onboard that JumpShip take all we can from it, then we are moving on.â€
Trade delegation
Jefferson City, Freedom
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
14th April 3112
An autocannon round impacted with Morgan’s Shrike OmniMech as things continued to get ugly on Freedom he twisted his OmniMech’s torso and returned fire with both of his OmniMech’s large lasers cutting into an enemy Shadow Hawk. His Trinary had been selected to escort the Rasalhague Dominion trade delegation on Freedom but during the negotiations unknown contacts had interfered attacking the negotiation centre on the outskirts of Freedom’s capital Jefferson City the local defending force had failed to hold them back. Now the Second Skye Jaegers were arriving on scene taking charge of the defence but Morgan wasn’t finished he marched his Shrike forwards and fired his lasers again hitting the Shadow Hawk. “Assault One status?†His commander Star Captain Dominica Jorgensson asked her star was several kilometres distant of his own escorting the traders away.
“Five up†Morgan transmitted looking over his star seeing the other four BattleMechs were up. “Second Jaegers have arrived and are taking control of the defence. They have not targeted my BattleMechs.†He said twisting his Mech’s torso to track the Shadow Hawk this time he triggered his Mech’s short range missile launchers and medium laser at the wounded BattleMech ending its fight.
“Should we support the Skye unit or fall back?†He said watching the Lyran marked units move into the area. It was strange for Morgan he had been born on Thorin, which was traditionally a Lyran world, and both of his parents had served in the Lyran Commonwealth army at one point and been in servitude to House Steiner but he had been born when his world and his parents served the Star League Defence Force and had naturally followed them.
“Negative Assault One, fall-back to point Zulu for extraction.†His commander ordered Morgan nodded his disappointment and switched channels.
“Understood, Star Commander Morgan to Assault Star, standing retreat fall back to point Zulu.†He commanded a standing retreat was Ghost Bear for a non-engagement “fighting retreat†it basically had the star for the most part walking backwards keeping their weapons ready for engagement. One at a time the star would turn and run a distance while the others covered moving away from their potential opponent.
As they fell back Morgan wondered if this would be the end of the trade deals between the Raslhague Dominion and Lyran Commonwealth he hoped not the only way for his nation and the Inner Sphere to continue peacefully was for there to be a dialog. The Sea Foxes had shown the other Clans this method was easiest, in not always the most honourable.
Orbital insertion, First Kathil Uhlans
Bithinia, Glasgow Commonality
Capellan Confederation
19th April 3112
After two successful raids the First Kathil Uhlans charged down on the production world of Bithinia intent on making the Capellan Confederation pay further for their attacks on the Federated Suns. With the WarShips FSS Fire Fang, FSS Silver Spear and FSS Comet above and substantial aerospace forces of their own the Uhlans quickly secure much of the planetary production facing at most a combined arms regiment of Capellans the Twenty-second Liao Lancers which fall quickly to the Uhlans.
Intent on disrupting Capellan Confederation operations as much as possible Marshal Richard Steiner, the commander of the Uhlans, commands that the unit empty the factories of Bithinia Ballistics the local weapons producer filling their DropShips with the weapons during their time on the planet. They are also able to capture armour plate from the world which allows them to repair some of the damage from previous raids.
---
A week later the CCSS Duncan Liao, a Feng Huang-class Cruiser-carriers, Warrior House Ijori, the Twentieth Liao Lancers and Hawkins Zouaves Regiment, a combined-arms mercenary unit, arrive in the system. In his command tent Marshal Richard Steiner watches the broadcast “I am Jiang-jun Jason Zaklan to the Federated Suns forces on and around Bithinia you will be vanquished by my forces.†He said challenging them
“Pack things up, we’re far from home against the forces they have we can’t hold†Richard Steiner said to his staff. “Captain Richmond, I want you to take the Comet out of this system and find us somewhere else to go, preferably we’d all like you to find a way home. We will hold out for three weeks before pulling out you have until then to find us somewhere. Use arrival point four for your return.â€
“Understood†Julia Richmond the commander of their smallest ship responded.
“Meanwhile we need to hold them back. Fire Fang and Silver Shield will delay them but neither WarShip has the firepower to hold back the Duncan Liao and all its fighters they will hit the ground in numbers we need to be prepared. If the Duncan Liao breaks through both our WarShips and assumes orbit over us I will order an evacuation if the Comet is back or not. This order will be Titanfall, it will be given once and then we will begin evacuation procedures. I will not be caught on the ground with one of those things over our heads.†He said looking around the room he saw faces that were questioning his course of action in taking the unit this deep into Capellan space but they had all seen the naval and ground forces in other systems that had blocked their path back to the Federated Suns. “I know none of us planned this path but each of you and each of your men need to remember that every minute that we tie up Capellan resources here is another minute and another unit that cannot make raids against our homes and our families.†He said attempting to remind them of their duty and the reason they were in their current position “you all have work to do, with exception of Major Aleksandr Petrov you are all dismissed.†He said quietly the unit’s leadership filed out of the command tent returning to their regiments to prepare them for the upcoming battle all except Major Aleksandr Petrov, the Land Air Mech Battalion commander. “Major, how are your people?â€
“Good sir, they are ready to prove themselves and to serve.â€
“I am glad to hear it†Marshal Steiner replied “when the fighting starts I want your unit to support the Infantry in our rear quarters ensure that the civilians do not become a threat to us while we hold the Capellans.â€
“Sir, my unit is fully capable of supporting its comrades in open battle. We have shown this on multiple occasions†Petrov complained he was a native of Tikonov and most of the time he hid his accent well but today his native Russian accent was showing.
“Yes, you have Major, but the LAMs are a specialist unit and I am going to need them when we evacuate. So the keep your toys free from the initial fighting.â€
“Da, sir†Petrov replied saluting the Marshal he seemed happy that they would at least have a place but Steiner wasn’t sure he’d like that place when he heard the order it was simple mathematics the Capellans had more air assets and Steiner wouldn’t sacrifice what he had before the unit evacuated the surface.
---
Three days past before the Capellans made landfall during that time the Uhlans had dug in on Bithinia surprisingly the population of the world had not caused many problems for them but Marshal Steiner still used nearly a regiment of his infantry to watch the unit’s back. The CCAF troops hot dropped onto the planet and immediately went on the attack with Warrior House Ijori leading the way as the AFFS troops had expected. Unfortunately for Ijori the First Kathil Uhlans were one of the Federated Suns most veteran commands and had fought with Capellans on many occasions the RCT was able to weather the storm of the first attack forcing back the Capellan forces.
Unfortunately, in space things did not go as well for the Federated Suns forces as the CCSS Duncan Liao used its superior ranged weapons such as naval lasers and particle cannons to puncture the FSS Fire Fang in multiple locations. The vessel which had served the original Star League and then participated in the Exodus and served in the Clan navies now faced its final battle. Turning on the Duncan Liao weathering hit after hit the Whirlwind Block II-class Destroyer made its final charge closing on the Duncan Liao raking the Capellan cruiser with naval autocannon fire supplementing its gauss rifles and particle cannons causing some telling damage on the Duncan Liao before the Feng Huang crew were able to manoeuvre their broadside on the smaller Destroyer. In a single salvo the once proud Destroyer became a nightmarish mix of metal, fuel, blood and bone as the Fire Fang erupted from the inside blowing the craft to pieces. Unable to hold off even the damaged Duncan Liao the Silver Spear withdrew out of weapons range planning on living to fight another day.
On the ground Marshal Richard Steiner stared at the screen another time before grabbing the field telephone “All commands Titanfall, I repeat Titanfall†he said hanging up the phone looking around the tent. “Anything that we can’t remove we destroy, now move it break the camp.†He commanded seeing that the Capellans were on the attack again his BattleMechs held the line again but every time they did they took more damage.
---
Over the course of several hours the Kathil Uhlans loaded into their DropShips preparing to boost off the planet. First went the support and repair equipment, then the artillery and armour units followed by infantry leaving only the BattleMechs, Aerospace Fighters, Battle Armour and the LAM unit deployed. From the command suite of his Conquistador-class DropShip Marshal Richard Steiner pulled up the feed for Major Aleksandr Petrov. “Major, the time for your unit to shine is now are you ready?â€
“Da, Marshal, we are ready our unit has had no significant issues with the civilians.â€
“Understood, abandon the rear-guard, I’m sending your unit specialist orders that you should be receiving now?†Petrov looked down at a screen below him. “Major, your unit is the only one that can do this, it will be risky and it will cost you but our command needs this distraction if it is to survive.â€
“You can count on us we will get the job done.â€
“I know you will†Steiner said “remember Major, this is a raid not an occupation, your people do their job then you get out.†He commanded the other man nodded “good hunting to you.â€
---
As DropShips carrying infantry and armour personnel off the planet began to lift off what was left of the RCT’s two aerospace wings rose with them intent on trying to fend off any attacks by the Feng Huang. As a well equipped RCT the Uhlans had nearly a dozen anti-ship missiles which had been fitted to the fighters. Unfortunately, none of the missiles carried a nuclear warhead but all had a stronger punch than the traditional missile loadout of an aerospace fighter. As they did Major Aleksandr Petrov led his LAM battalion into the air from his Shadow Hawk X3M the unit took off from just behind the front-lines strafing the Capellan lines as they passed overhead to of the LAMs a Stinger and a Yurei were instantly destroyed hit by ground fire in a sensitive spot causing the pilot to lose control and crash headlong into the ground.
The rest of the Thirty-four Land-Air Mechs passed by with minimal damage carrying on towards their target the Capellan landing zone and their support facilities. Cruising close to the ground the LAMs in their aerospace fighter configurations quickly made progress towards the base landing short of the DropShip landing area they moved in towards their target as BattleMechs. Moving in Petrov sighted one of the few BattleMechs the Capellans had left to guard the base a lance of dustbin-like UrbanMechs. One of the most basic BattleMechs in existence they still had autocannons on them that would ruin the day of any of the LAMs as a result almost the entire Battalion engaged the lance knocking out all four light Mechs in a matter of seconds. Running into the basecamp the Uhlans were engaged by small arms fire and shoulder launched missiles which they could take for a short period of time. Petrov’s command went to work targeting the support base of the Capellan force, the repair cradles, the field kitchens, the communications vehicles anything of value their attack would not cripple the Capellans but it was hoped that it would distract them.
“Incoming Capellan BattleMechs!†One of his warriors called out.
“Turn to engage them, concentrate fire as much as we can it’ll be the lightest units first.†Petrov commanded moving his Land-Air Mech forward at a running pace he saw a pair of Anubis BattleMechs leading a Raven and an Osiris. “Concentrate fire take them down.†He commanded as if he had needed to already the nearest lance had bunched their fire together on one Anubis shattering the light BattleMech. The rest of the enemy lance quickly followed suit as the combined fire of the Land Air Mechs brought them all down. “Riker Lance, I want a minefield along the vector they were approaching, empty your bins.†He ordered the four Mechs had swapped convention long range missiles for air launched mines began to seed small minefields throughout the area while the others went back to destroying Capellan equipment.
“Heavier units, armour as well.†His perimeter guard called out Petrov moved back to the perimeter and saw medium and heavy BattleMechs were approaching along with tracked and wheeled armoured vehicles.
“Let’s hope we have bought the RCT enough time.†Petrov said watching the first Capellan vehicle strike one of the minefields they had laid the mines did a tiny amount of damage before the tank moved forward almost without reacting it was a passing victory but a worthwhile one. “Our plan is simple ladies and gentlemen, we draw them into their own camp and then we hightail it out of here. Remember this is a raid not an occupation we can’t stand up to them.†He said echoing Marshal Steiner’s words. From the ruined camp Petrov could see that the incoming Capellans were holding back and trying to snipe at his LAMs a Wasp was an unlucky victim of a long-range particle cannon shot which destroyed the BattleMech completely. He ducked his Shadow Hawk out of its covered position and raised its missile launcher equipped arm while the Mech had been built as an X3M Petrov had ordered some changes to the Mech which included a Headhunter Missile Launcher system on the right arm. He sat patiently waiting for the lock and fired off the missile unlike a conventional launcher the Headhunter was an all or nothing single missile launch system while the Shadow Hawk was incapable of launching the heaviest of the missiles available the system Petrov had fitted was still potent. The missile rapidly closed the distance between the two forces impacting on a Capellan JagerMech blowing a hole in the heavy Mech. Inside a secondary explosion showed internal damage to the BattleMech and Petrov smiled the Headhunter’s second party trick was it had a double warhead and was capable of penetrating the heaviest armour causing crippling internal damage. Petrov saw a couple of others had chosen the same route as him and Riker Lance was pumping out more air deployed mines closer into their position but he also saw that the Capellans were steadily closing.
“Hopper Battalion evacuate by lance, get off the ground I’ll see you in orbit.†Petrov ordered using the Battalion’s unofficial name. As he did a Screamer LAM exploded under withering fire from Capellan Mechs. Even as the LAMs raised into the air several were taking damage from ground fire Petrov followed suit soon after and saw to other LAMs struck by autocannon and missile fire as he took off. Steiner had said it would be costly and he had not been joking fourteen of the Land Air Mechs had been destroyed if their pilots had ejected they would now be prisoners of the Capellan Confederation a full third of the Battalion’s strength gone in a single battle. Rising through the atmosphere the LAMs were able to rendezvous with the DropShips and the FSS Silver Spear which was shielding them from the Feng Huang’s fire while also causing more damage on the enemy WarShip. They turned away from the planet heading towards one of the systems pirate points where the RCT’s JumpShips were hidden. Due to Capellan harassment it would take them nearly a week to escape the system jumping away from Bithinia the RCT having survived the engagement even if it had taken some losses.
As a result of the losses taken fighting the Uhlans, namely their commander and executive officer, the Hawkins Zouaves have no access to their off world finances and have no option but to officially link their loyalty to the Capellan Confederation accepting Capellan commands without hesitation.
Battlefield Marcus
Marcus, Star League Protectorate
22nd April 3112
Clan Wolf BattleMechs and Battle Armour belonging to the Golden Keshik and 342nd Wolf Assault Cluster moved on the positions of the First Marcus Guard Regiment and of the Fifth Special Operations Group. Although the SLDF defenders had superior numbers the Clansmen were more experienced and had air superiority with Wolf Aerospace fighters dominating the skies above them making near continuous bombing runs. In the Wolf lines was a new OmniMech which appeared to weigh in at fifty to fifty-five tons in weight and had appeared in three different configurations among clan forces.
The SLDF lines were bending and breaking as the Wolves pushed forward. The Guard unit was little more than a combined-arms militia regiment while the Special Operations Group was designed to support line regiments not hold a battleline. With the recent reorganisation of Star League lines to support the Taurian Concordat they were all that was left until reinforcements arrived which unfortunately would not be today.
Working in concert the Wolves quickly moved on the defenders taking out many of the SLDF’s lighter Mechs from range and with Elementals swarming many of the heavier Mechs. Behind them DropShips carrying evacuees attempted to escape the planet but they were forced to scatter upon reaching orbit due to the presence of the Ward’s Legacy. While the McKenna-class Battleship did not engage any of the DropShips leaving the planet its presence alone was too much for any of the captains trying to escape. While the Marcus Guard, the Mechs and armour of the Fifth fight to the last man the battle armour forces of the Special Operations Group scatter going to ground ready to continue to resist the occupation.
Within a week of the assaults on Marcus Zosma also falls to Clan Wolf with the SLS Unity destroyed by Clan Wolf WarShips while Brodon, Alioth and Castor all suffer raids by Clan Wolf none of the worlds fall to Clan forces. On Terra the Security Council call for the redistribution of SLDF forces to better defend the Protectorate.
Press Conference
New Vienna, Gaenir Beta
Periphery
26th April 3112
At a press conference on the world of Gaenir Beta the leader of the world Governor Phillip Locke stood in front of a group of civilians and press in the capital city of New Vienna. Gaenir Beta along with its sister worlds, Alpha, Gamma and Delta had been colonised within the last one hundred years by citizens from the Federated Suns, Taurian Concordat and Fronc Reaches from people who didn’t want to be involved in the national fighting that was overtaking the other nations sense. For the last one hundred years the worlds had held a loose trading relationship which now they made more formal.
“My name is Phillip Locke I am the Governor of Gaenir Beta, today I announce that this world will forever be known as Gaenir. The worlds of Gaenir Alpha, Gaenir Gamma and Gaenir Delta will today be known as Estorth, Prearia and Pawhion by the choice of their populations together we will form the Gaenir Collective. The Gaenir Collective offers peaceful terms to all neighbouring nations and promise a nation of non-aggression our weapons will be for defence and defence only.†A man in his mid-forties said he was dressed in a kakhi coloured jumpsuit that had no rank or insignia. “Our nation invites neighbouring realms to send diplomats to Gaenir and requests permission to send diplomats to your realms I look forward to your responses. The Gaenir Collective plans on being a productive member of the periphery community.â€
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Sceptre, Entrance Jump
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
5th May 3112
The battered WarShip Sceptre jumped into the Lesnovo system quickly cutting in its engines moving in system. “Open a channel†Captain Gerry Harper commanded “This is the WarShip Sceptre we are Dezgra and we welcome the death that is to come.†He said the crew had decided that this would be their last attack intent on striking the Free Worlds League and causing enough of an outrage that they would be hunted down and destroyed. Harper had not intended on leading his crew to their deaths but far from any support the ship had been taking an increasing amount of damage while fuel and ammunition was also beginning to run low.
“Sensor contact it’s big…†Sensor Operator Susan reported only a couple of minutes after the ship had begun to move in system “moving up from the Zenith point, it’s a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser.â€
“Then we will die as warriors instead of being hunted like dogs.†Harper announced to his crew.
“Incoming transmissionâ€
“On speakersâ€
“This is Khan Petra Furey of Clan Smoke Jaguar, Lesnovo is defended by my people identify yourselves or be destroyed like the Dezgra you claim to be.†The female voice said her accent was unmistablably Clan but the words “Clan Smoke Jaguar†rocked Gerry Harper to silence the Jaguars were dead they had been for decades. “Answer me WarShip Sceptre.â€
“Sir, the Jaguar vessel identifies as the Streaking Mist they are orientating to put their broadside weapons on this vessel. Aerospace fighters have launched. Captain, they are demanding an answer.†Susan said getting his attention Jerry Harper nodded and spoke.
“Turn us to face them†he commanded before reaching for the communications panel. “I am Jerry Harper, the Smoke Jaguars are a dead Clan, whoever you are, you are not a Jaguar Khan.â€
“What people hear of the Jaguars and what is true are two different things. Harper, I declare a Trial of Possession for your ship and crew.â€
“My ship is no match for yours my aerospace fighters are short on fuel and ammunition, it would not be a fair fight.â€
“Nothing in life is fair.†Furey replied “fine, Sceptre have it your way.†She said there was silence for several moments Harper half expected to see the Streaking Mist’s weapons light up and for the Sceptre to disappear around him instead he saw a small craft launch from the Black Lion and head towards them under escort by two Aerospace Fighters. “Allow my fighters to dock with your WarShip my pilots will return on the small craft while your best pilots will face my own in combat. The winner will decide the fate of the Sceptre.â€
“I agree I will fight this battle personally.â€
“You are welcome to Star Captainâ€
---
Almost an hour later Harper was sitting in the F-11 Cheetah Aerospace Fighter easing the twenty-five-ton craft to the left and back to the right. Alongside him Pilot Naveen was also getting to know the Inner Sphere fighter craft. “Star Captain Harper, are you prepared quiaff?†Khan Petra Furey asked
“Aff, Khan we are†he transmitted back suddenly two more Cheetah’s approached at high speed on either side pulse laser blasts were traded as the two flights crossed paths. Harper braked heavily turning his fighter to the right trying to hunt down one of the enemy craft he saw that Naveen had followed his lead in the turn which brought them back into another flying pass with the Jaguars. “Break to Port on my count, follow your own flight Naveen and allow your beak to guide you.†He commanded “Break now!â€
As he did the two craft split one heading port while Harper pulled back on the stick pulling the Cheetah’s nose up and over flipping the craft and changing direction completely he then sharply turned to the right and forced the craft’s nose down moving into position he saw that Naveen’s path was going to bring him directly towards the two Jaguar pilots but Harper was more concerned with his own survival and allowed the fight to progress as it did he saw Naveen’s craft be peppered by several laser hits including one that pierced the cockpit killing the young Raven. It was a warrior’s death and an honourable one at that, but it was also one that may have won them this battle. Continuing his dive Harper brought both pulse lasers online targeting both enemy craft from above he fired down on them “walking†the pulse lasers over the two enemy Cheetah’s damaging both as he sliced through their flight path he spun his craft to port and starboard as the damaged Jaguars began to turn to follow him now more sluggish than before.
Harper danced the Cheetah through space avoiding the pulse laser fire from the chasing Jaguars allowing them to close on his craft “I tap the breaks†he whispered decelerating rapidly he watched as the two enemy craft closed rapidly missing his own ship by metres “and you fly by†he said triumphantly targeting one of the craft pounding its rear section with pulse laser fire what followed were a series of internal explosions that ended the Cheetah’s fight. He then dived after the second craft keeping up his pursuit the pilot was obviously experienced and continued to push him to the limit of his skill. Finally, the pilot tried to spin his craft in space intent on pivoting along the flight path to fire back on Harper’s craft unfortunately this only ever worked if you were not already in weapons range in pursuit Harper continued to fire cutting into the enemy Cheetah breaching its armour in several locations before the fighter exploded from the inside with the pilot ejecting.
“Streaking Mist to Star Captain Harper, you are victorious today. well done†Khan Petra Furey transmitted to his fighter Harper hadn’t expected her to congratulate him herself nothing these Jaguars did made sense. “Come aboard the Streaking Mist and we will discuss your future.â€
“Safcon is granted quiaff?†He asked still surprised his enemy were not preparing another wave of fighters to attack him or using the Black Lion’s guns to target the Sceptre.
“Of course, you are victoriousâ€
“I am on my wayâ€
---
The lights were dim onboard the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser Streaking Mist and few of the crew wore full Smoke Jaguar uniforms instead they wore parts of multiple uniforms which these Clansmen had encountered during their journey from the Clan Homeworlds. He was led through the vessel to the command centre deep inside the WarShip where he encountered Khan Petra Furey. She was younger than he had expected and had medium length dark hair that was tied back behind her head he seamlessly slipped into two of the holding points on the floor so he could stand in the microgravity.
“Khan Fureyâ€
“Star Captain Harper, welcome on board the Streaking Mist, an impressive performance out there today you have saved your WarShip from annihilation.â€
“I could not allow them to be lost without a fight. Your generosity with lending us aerospace fighters and accepting the defeat.â€
“Your performance warranted itâ€
“Khan, with respect you do not act like Smoke Jaguars I have ever encountered before.â€
“We are not, we are survivors, we have faced the destruction of our Clan and we are still here.â€
“And your alliance with an Inner Sphere state?â€
“Our home is in their territory my Clan is only so strong.â€
“You do know that your name alone could bring enemies to your door quiaff?â€
“Aff, we are aware as is the District of Lesnovo and they are, at least for now, willing to stand by us. I plan to grow the strength of my Clan so when our name is known we can stand against all comers.â€
“That is quite a taskâ€
“A task that could be made easier with the addition of more Clansmen of like mind, skill and resource.†She said broaching a new subject “Star Captain, your skill has impressed me and my warriors, I offer you all places in the reborn Clan Smoke Jaguar. Allow us to offer you the second chance we have been granted and let us return the Sceptre to glory.†She said she saw his reluctance remained “we are not the same people you are familiar with and your presence will change us even more together we can show everyone the Clan Smoke Jaguar that they were supposed to see before.â€
“Aff, on behalf of myself and my ship, I accept your offer Khan.†He said bowing his head the chance to serve in a Clan again winning over his reservations he hoped that this was not a mistake like so many others the Sceptre had made. For now the Sceptre would not be much of a benefit to the Smoke Jaguars or to the people of Lesnovo but in time with the correct assets it could be a powerful asset.
First Kathil Uhlans Landings
Les Halles, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
7th May 3112
With minimal ground defences and no naval presence Les Halles in the Free Worlds League’s District of Oriente made a perfect target for the First Kathil Uhlans as they retreated from the Capellan Confederation. Landing in the middle of a massive snowstorm which appeared to cover the entire northern atmosphere the area had been picked to specifically avoid the planetary defenders. Marshal Richard Steiner walked onto the command deck of his lead DropShip as it descended through the atmosphere this stopping point was designed to get them fuel and food that would sustain them during their trip back towards Federated Suns territory. “Have landing party Alpha depart when we hit the ground they provide us with ground security while the other ships come down. They are not to engage unless we are engaged.â€
“We are invaders Marshal†Colonel Sofia Bukhalova reminded him she was his aide and friend a native of Wernke in the Federated Suns she had served in the Regiment for years and had Uhlan blood.
“I know we are but we’re not going to attack them instead I plan to speak to them hopefully they will understand that we don’t mean them harm and we have come here by accident.â€
“One Succession State’s armed forces in the territory of another, I can see this going so well. I want to deploy Beta along with Alpha as soon as we’re settled.â€
“That’s a third of our remaining forces.â€
“I fear we’ll need the securityâ€
“Fine Colonel, but lets make sure we have plenty people taking downtime as well we don’t know how long we’ll be here and this weather isn’t going to help matters.†He said as the Conquistador-class DropShip came in for its landing all around the DropShips were making landings in the deep snow that covered Les Halles surface.
“Communication from the planet†the communication officer said looking over at him “a Prefect Freema Smit.â€
“Put her on loudspeaker†he said “Prefect Freema Smit, I am Marshal Richard Steiner of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns, we are not here as aggressors we wish to repair and refit and we are willing to trade for supplies.â€
“You are a member of the Steiner family?†She asked Richard Steiner shook his head barely believing what he had heard he had just told the leader of a planet that he was leading a foreign RCT to the planet’s surface and the planetary leader was only interested in the fact he was a member of the Steiner family.
“I am a relation to the ruling line†he said thinking ‘a very distant relation.’ “Prefect, I want it to be very clear that our unit does not mean hostile intent.â€
“I understand you, Marshal Steiner, we wish to protest your unit’s arrival on Las Halles however we will not attack you on one condition†he said pausing for a moment “I wish to outfit my militia forces with traditional Steiner designs and I wish to dine with a member of the Steiner family two unique things in the District of Oriente.â€
“Agreed†Steiner replied thinking it would be a small price to pay as his unit planned the next part of their detour.
Jade Falcon Offensive
Crevedia, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
9th May 3112
Across the Jade Falcon line elements of three Jade Falcon Clusters and one Ebon Guard Cluster fought against Lyran Commonwealth defenders and their mercenary back up. At the centre of the Ebon Guard Galaxy Loremaster of the Clans Brennley Roshak piloted her Night Gyr OmniMech against the Lyran Commonwealth unit’s targeting her enemy with her OmniMech’s Extended Range Particle Cannons and type 10 ultra autocannon. She had no need to be here in open combat she enjoyed feeling the power of the Night Gyr under her and seeing the destruction the weapons brought on the nearby Lyran BattleMechs and vehicles. The defenders on this planet were not equipped with the best equipment most of those were deployed on Arcturus, Odessa, Donegal and Coventry. Already the Jade Falcons had steamrolled over Alma Alta forcing back the Nineteenth Arcturan Guards RCT and the WarShip LCS Danzig while Cameron had also fallen to the Jade Falcons now Crevedia was their target and the Ebon Guard Cluster had been attached to them.
Forcing her way forwards Brennley Roshak kept up her fire on a larger Zeus BattleMech the Inner Sphere assault Mech was produced in the Lyran Commonwealth and featured in almost all of their units. Although being heavier than the Night Gyr the more powerful Clan weapons gave he the advantage moving forwards she triggered her particle cannons only for the Zeus to soak up the hit and return fire with its own particle cannon, laser and missile launcher showering the Jade Falcon OmniMech in weapons fire. Brennley moved to the right twisting her OmniMech’s torso keeping her weapons on the Zeus she triggered her autocannon again sending more ballistic ordinance into the enemy assault Mech moments later she triggered her particle cannons the Zeus twisted its torso tracking her Night Gyr but the missiles went wide as did its laser with only the particle cannon striking the Roshak’s Mech. Emboldened by the Lyran warrior’s misses Brennley charged on the Zeus closing the distance pumping further autocannon salvos into the Zeus. As the seventy-five-ton Night Gyr moved forwards a gauss rifle slug flew in from Brennley’s right striking the upper half of the Night Gyr’s torso the slug careered up over the torso striking the bottom of the cockpit tearing through the cockpit decapitating the OmniMech killing the Loremaster of the Clans.
While the loss of the Loremaster of the Clans was demoralising to the Ebon Guard cluster who also became the focus of the Lyran defence with the Cluster being essentially destroyed in the battle. Unfortunately this focus allowed the Jade Falcon force to encircle and eliminate the defenders securing the main continent of Crevedia. From the other continents two small mercenary units escaped the Jade Falcons.
---
Nearly three weeks later Iwabuchi Nagasawa of Clan Sea Fox’s Faulk Khanate became the new Loremaster of the Clans. The forty-seven-year-old Sea Fox warrior’s first duty is to promote the Watch unit to a front-line cluster and add it to the Ebon Guard Galaxy. Meanwhile on the Jade Falcon border the Lyran’s continue to raid the Jade Falcon OZ trying their defences with the Charlestown Chiefs, Crescent Hawks and Snord’s Irregulars with the Charlestown Chiefs debuting their new Aurora-class DropShip and an additional lance of BattleMechs added during their time on Skye.
Border conflict
Rasalhague Dominion
Lyran Commonwealth
15th May 3112
In retaliation for the troubles encountered on Freedom Clan Ghost Bear forces representing the Rasalhague Dominion raid Marfik, Freedom, Yed Prior and Alexandria on Marfik the Clansmen are turned away by the Gray Death Legion while other Lyran Commonwealth forces the Bear’s aggression takes many by surprise and raises defence standing in the Isle of Skye region of the Lyran Commonwealth. Even against the Gray Death mercenaries the Ghost Bears adhere to Clan duelling laws of Zellbrigen.
Situation Tent, First Kathil Uhlans RCT
Ice Plains, Les Halles
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
17th May 3112
With his winter jacket wrapped around him Marshal Richard Steiner entered the command tent of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT he had been looking over the local militia force when word of the attack had been passed to him. “What do we have?â€
“Sir, within the last hour a Capellan Confederation assault force has arrived in system, sir, the Silver Shield has been destroyed by Capellan naval assets.†Colonel Sofia Bukhalova reported as he entered “Capellans are no on their way to the planet.â€
“The JumpShips and Comet?â€
“As per your orders the JumpShips jumped clear of the system as we believe the Comet has.†She reported his standing orders were for the JumpShips to avoid capture and attempt to make their way back to the Federated Suns anyway they could. The Comet was under the same orders to avoid conflict and to escape back to the Federated Suns informing them of the plight of the Kathil Uhlans.
“Then we’re on our own†Steiner said he’d hoped to still have the option to use the JumpShips to escape and keep the unit together but the people of Las Halles had been slower in passing on the supplies that were available probably because the AFFS unit didn’t have guns to their head but he hadn’t wanted to come across as a hostile force and as far he knew the world’s Prefect had not called for assistance from beyond Las Halles. “Call all units have them prepare for a fight†he said looking at the holo-map they’d picked this glacier as a landing zone because it was open enough for the aerodyne craft they had but that also made it an area that the Capellan’s could use. “Contact the Prefect inform her that aggressive Capellan forces are on their way to the planet we will do all we can to make sure they are not affected by this fight.â€
“And if the WarShip comes in?â€
“We can’t do anything about that ship now we’ll just have to hope the Silver Shield and her fighters damaged them enough to make them wary about approaching if not we’ll send the fighters we have to worry them for as long as we can.â€
---
Six days later the Capellan Confederation forces arrived in orbit over the Kathil Uhlans position with their WarShip hovering away from planetary orbit holding at maximum range. On the ground the Uhlans waited for the Capellan assault while aerospace fighters duked it out in the air above. Across the radio waves a new communication was passed on all channels.
“This is Prefect Freema Smit to the incoming Capellan Forces welcome to Les Halles.†The Prefect said “your conflict is with the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns unit on this planet. At this very moment this transmission and everything that has run up to today is being sent to Oriente so I want t make this very clear. We have not called for assistance from the Capellan Confederation’s Armed Forces not did we request you to enter into combat with those of the Federated Suns in this system.â€
“This is Jason Zaklan of the Capellan Confederation. Prefect, we do not need your call for assistance nor do we need your permission to engage with the Federated Suns. They violated our territory they will pay the price of defiling the territory of the Celestial Wisdom.†Came the accented response “my forces are beginning their atmospheric entry we will discuss Les Halles surrender once the Uhlans have been dealt with.â€
“We have nothing to do with the Federated Suns unit…â€
“You have harboured our enemies and continue to support them.â€
“They have done us no harm†the Prefect said finally “we will defend against any threat to Les Halles. The Uhlans are no threat and now you have become a threat.†She said cutting the line.
Sitting in his Templar OmniMech Marshal Richard Steiner had listened to the words as had the other members of his command in the air above them there were sonic booms as the Capellan DropShips entered the atmosphere joining their aerospace fighters which were already causing turmoil for the AFFS aerospace forces. “Stand by everyone we know what’s coming we need to stand up to their forces and push them back.â€
“New contacts eight Meteor-G and Four Angel Conventional Fighters coming from the capital they are aiming for the incoming Capellan DropShips.â€
“They’re committing suicide†Steiner said watching the screens the fighters must have been carrying additional ordinance because they were flying far slower than they were capable but Richard Steiner knew the damage they could cause. “Steiner to air wings interference in west quadrant, allow the local fighters to get in range.†The conventional fighters continued to close on the Capellan DropShips as Capellan aerospace fighters moved on them AFFS aerospace fighters attempted to fly some interference allowing the FWL craft to close on a descending Union-class DropShip the thunder of the eight Meteor-G fighters autocannnons complemented by long range missiles from the two flights of Angel fighters pounded the Union shattering its port engines and two of the cargo bay doors. The Union quickly began to fall faster than the other craft around it as the vessel lost control falling out of formation. “Track that craft’s trajectory we’ll have to deal with the survivors.†Above the militia fighters were continuing to press their luck turning on a giant Overlord-class DropShip unleashing their carried ordinance as well as their own inbuilt weapons. The Overlord soaked up the damage while Capellan fighters ripped into the remaining conventional fighters. “Thank you for trying†Richard Steiner said what everyone was thinking they hadn’t stood a chance but they had tried now all across the skies BattleMechs were appearing as they jumped towards the surface.
The melee that followed was brutal as the Federated Suns force and Capellan Confederation force engaged in a no hold’s barred assault on each other. Marshal Richard Steiner commanded his forces from the centre piloting his Templar in command of an entire company of assault Mechs together they were lashing out at entire companies of Capellan forces concentrating their fire proving why assault Mechs were so feared. While they brought down several Capellan units aerospace fighters bombed the AFFS lines creating loss after loss. “We need to break their ground forces company target this group.†Steiner commanded stepping his Templar across the shadow of an Atlas BattleMech using it as a shield while he made his plan in the centre of the formation was a lace of Ti T’sang Heavy BattleMechs which Zaklan used as his personal BattleMech. “That’s who we are going after†he said stepping out from behind the Atlas hitting one of Ti T’sangs with a particle cannon shot. Together his assault company waded through Capellan units taking heavy damage as they did the Ti T'sangs didn’t retreat instead they turned on the Davion formation and charged forwards straight at them striking down enemies as they closed. As they approached Richard Steiner’s command however they did so attacking enemy BattleMechs twenty-thirty tons heavier than their own Mechs. While the Heavy Mechs had a huge amount of speed they lacked the armour of the heavier designs. “Do not allow them to get into physical contact with those lances will ruin our armour.†He reminded them all “split by lance pick a Mech and fire†he commanded “bring them down.†He said the units combined fire on the four Capellan heavy Mechs taking heavy damage from all sides several of Richard’s Mechs were knocked down and out of the fight but so were all four Capellan BattleMechs. The remaining Capellans continued to engage the Uhlans but they were heavily outnumbered and were quickly eliminated by the combined force of the remaining Uhlans. Above them Capellan aerospace fighters continued to fly but without ground support they could not hold the territory and as this world was still a Free Worlds League governed world they dared not bombard the surface leading to a stalemate.
Clan Council
Farstar, Clan Lynx Territory
Periphery
22nd May 3112
Khan Katrine Devalis stepped up infront of the bloodnamed members of her Khan she knew they were still waiting for her to inform them where the Clan was heading but she needed to give them a new direction but first she needed to announce some changes. “Fellow warriors†she said looking to either side of the gathered warriors “our Clan needs depth not only in our construction and training but also in our genetic make-up so today I am announcing the formation of the Bedford, Schuetz and Guerette Bloodhouses. These houses have been closed by Clan Nova Cat for decades written off as not productive enough to be warriors but I believe that the Lynx can make them famous for other reasons.†She said “we are also going to open a new Bloodhouse based off the blood of the local people who have fought and died for their own worlds.†She said from the group of warriors there was a grumble from warriors but none raised a descent “we will build this Clan to be one of the strongest together by defending our homes and defeating our enemies.†She said she could see they still wanted another announcement before the Council divided into individual Bloodhouses to support or denounce her motions “as of tomorrow I am calling for Trials of Possession against Ariel, Adesia, Erdenet and Alfrik and for a Trial of Possession for the use of the Sea Fox shipyard in Jarnfolk territory.†She said she knew that would also give them something to focus on in the short term as the Clan prepared for actions against anyone who stood up to them.
In the coming days Clan Lynx would win control over all four planets that were nestled between them and the Clan Sea Fox influenced Jarnfolk space. The Clan would then go on to win access to the Sea Fox’s Shipyard but due to a spirited defence by the merchant-warriors the Lynx would only be allowed to access the shipyard when the Foxes permitted a far more complex resolution than Devalis had wanted but it was a start for her Clan.
Elsewhere in the periphery Clan Nova Cat continues to battle the Taurian Concordat on several worlds causing Brofinder, Gordian Charleston, Orkney and Carvajal to all announce they were aligning with the newly formed Gaenir Collective. Gaenir continues to broadcast its peaceful intentions to all of its neighbours while also hiring several small mercenary units to provide it with a defence.
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So it's been a while, I went on holiday and moved house so something had to take a back seat
But here's some new stuff
Entry Jump, FSS Comet (Peter-class Scout)
New Olympica, Star League Protectorate
Free Worlds League
1st June 3112
The tiny FSS Comet jumped into the New Olympica system without an escort immediately setting off alarms for the Star League Defence Force defenders. Normally a Peter-class Scout vessel would enter a system with a JumpShip or WarShip acting as cover allowing the ship’s small jump signature to slip into the background. With no cover even a small jump signature was easily noticed by the SLS Sheridan, the Star League Defence Force’s Bonaventure-class Training Vessel, which was assigned to the system. Despite it being a training vessel and a vessel outdated by modern standards the Bonaventure still easily outgunned the Comet as did the approaching aerospace fighters.
“This is the FSS Comet Captain Julia Richmond of the Federated Suns Navy commanding we request Asylum from the SLDF defenders of New Olympica and request that you contact the Federated Suns and inform them that the First Kathil Uhlans are stranded on Les Halles in the District of Oriente.†The transmission came across the general SLDF communications channel as aerospace fighters dived towards the vessel “I repeat this is the FSS Comet we are willing to offer our immediate and uncontested surrender to SLDF forces in exchange for protection from attack from the Free Worlds League and communications with the Federated Suns.â€
“This is Captain Otto Biermann in command of the SLS Sheridan your surrender is accepted marines will board and commandeer your vessel. Permission for communications with the Federated Suns will decided at a later date and will not be conditional of your surrender. Any attempt at resistance will result in the destruction of your vessel.†With SLDF aerospace fighters swarming the Comet, small craft approaching from both sides and the SLS Sherdian hovering nearby the Federated Suns crew wouldn’t be able to resist even if they wanted to.
Public Announcement, Command Station
Galatea Station, Galatea
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
9th June 3112
After weeks of criminal issues and threats against the Galatea Station military governor of the station Captain Michael O’Hare stood in front of the Tri-Vid camera to make an announcement. “In recent months Galatea Station has received intelligence of threats that were made against this station. We requested assistance from Skye and from Tharkad and have not received assistance. In recent days Galatea Station Security has stopped two suspected terrorist bombings with no loss of life. As a result of these threats and a lack of support Galatea Station command has chosen to separate from the Lyran Commonwealth High Command and instead call on assistance from the Star League Protectorate.†He said pausing briefly O’Hare was in his sixties and a career Lyran Commonwealth Naval Officer this decision had killed him but it was one that needed to be made “I have served the Lyran Commonwealth for more than thirty years, I have served on every border our nation has, but as Military Governor of Galatea Station I am responsible for all of the people that come through this station and I will do everything I can to protect them.†He said confident he had justified his position “Galatea Station will remain an open port for all mercenary commands and visitors from all nations of the Inner Sphere.†He said signing off the message with the Galatea Flag along with that of the Galatea Station and the Cameron Star.
Border fighting
Castor, Star League Protectorate
15th June 3112
“I am Star Colonel Michael Carns of Clan Wolf of the Eleventh Wolf Striker Cluster I claim this world, its people and its resources for Clan Wolf defenders announce yourselves.†The Clan Wolf commander announced as his BattleMech left the DropShip what followed was a massive artillery barrage followed by a huge bombing campaign which smashed through the Clan Wolf aerospace defences beginning a battle for the planet.
The Wolves had come to Castor intending on conquest and found no naval defences thinking that Castor wasn’t important enough to the Star League to defend with capital assets now however they were against a ground campaign with the local criminal gangs supporting the Star League ground forces.
These gangs had been exactly why the SLDF did not have a large presence on the world and had been a constant problem for the Star League since their take over of the system. As the fighting progressed the SLDF fell back but the gangs continued to resist Wolf occupation. As a word of warning the Wolves razed an entire compound to the ground burning the supplies of an entire gang unfortunately the fighting with these gangs was just beginning. Even as SLDF units feel back off the planet Wolf forces continued to be harassed by gang forces.
Elsewhere the Game World continues to entertain thousands with the Thirty-ninth Star League Games kicking off on Solaris VII. Local boy Alexander Munro competing as an independent and piloting an Atlas II BattleMech is victorious in the competition.
Sentencing Hearing, Military Court
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
28th June 3112
Colonel Dominic Nostra stood in front of a military tribunal wearing a plain green jumpsuit devoid of rank and with his name and military serial number stencilled into it was the same uniform he had worn since his arrest. He stood in front of a group of five senior officers and remained silent as they exonerated his unit of wrong doing on Twin Sons but levied all blame on Nostra himself he’d expected it and took the blame and the trouble that followed. By split vote he was stripped of his command, rank and sentenced to life in military prison before being escorted through the courthouse to a waiting APC that would take him to a waiting DropShip.
As the APC travelled from the court inside the city to the outskirts its two Vendette escort tanks were hit from various sides by four BattleMechs they quickly eliminated the remaining infantry who had been defending the APC before extracting an unconscious Dominic Nostra from the flipped over vehicle before disappearing into Lesnovo’s wilderness.
Hours later Dominic woke wearing the same green jumpsuit he had when he was in court he was lying in a cave and outside a thunderstorm raged with rain beating down on the Lesnovo wilderness. Nearby the lance of BattleMechs that had attacked his convoy waited silently for their next command. In the cave another warrior waited with him this one was dressed in a full body suit that had been painted green it was the unmistakable outfit of the Bounty Hunter.
“You know who I am?†The figure asked in an artificial voice which disguised their identity down to Dominic not knowing if it was a male or female.
“You’re the Bounty Hunter or a very impressive actor.†He said he moved slightly from his prone position he felt a twinge of pain in his side and guessed he must have broken a rib or two in the attack.
“Good†it replied “and why do you think you are here?â€
“My sins have caught up with me?â€
“Yes and no†the figure replied “your actions on Twin Sons did impress me it showed a person willing to do what needed to be done without hesitation.â€
“I was required to do it, I didn’t enjoy itâ€
“You don’t need to enjoy it Dominic just be willing to work for money.â€
“I’m a MechWarrior, all we work for is coin.â€
“I’m glad you agree†the figure replied “and with that in mind I’d like to offer you a job. Join my team and you can be a MechWarrior again or I can leave you to your freedom in this cave.â€
“What’s the catch?â€
“You’ll have to kill people and not ask questions about it.â€
“It’ll be necessary?†Dominic asked knowing the answer.
“For the pay packet it will be necessary to kill, yesâ€
“I’m in†Dominic said after several minutes of thought he was done serving people who didn’t appreciate someone who was willing and able to kill their enemies to get a job done.
"Welcome to your new life" the figure replied hours later the Bounty Hunter’s Mule-class DropShip left the planet on fake lift off papers joining the traffic above the world heading out of the system.
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So it's been a while, I went on holiday and moved house so something had to take a back seat
But here's some new stuff
Good to see you back at it DC!
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Internal conflict
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space, Inner Sphere
3rd July 3112
While less than a decade old the Free Guilds created by Loremaster Thomas Ward had succeeded beyond anyone’s expectations even with the current Sea Fox Loremaster of the Clans in Iwabuchi Nagasawa the Guilds had increased production, research and trade on Tukayyid tenfold building facilities quicker than any individual Clan could match. Unfortunately, this success had also brung conflict to the defecto capital of the Clans with each success the Free Guilds accomplished it further diminished the individual Clan’s traders successes. In Clan society where success was not a happy coincidence but instead necessary for progression and unlike in Warrior society where conflict could be solved in Honour Trials in the civilian trader world where weapons were available but honour was lacking the battles became far more brutal. Usually these fights resulted in several members of both sides ending up in medical centres needing treatment for bumps and bruises other times things were far more deadly.
Following a long day of work the Free Guilds often gathered in local bars to wind down normally there were the usual assortment of Free Guilds traders and workers local community and various members of the lower castes of local Clan populations as well as an assortment of Clan traders from various Clans. Tonight was different the majority of the people in the bar were from the Free Guilds and local lower castes with only a couple of Clan traders present. As they enjoyed their night no one spotted the Clan Sea Fox painted Rache Battle Armour suit stepping up outside nor would they have seeing armed units pass was a common occurrence what wasn’t normal was the suit turning its weapons on the bar and opening fire. A hair of machine gun fire followed by four short range missiles slammed into the bar filling it with fire killing everyone inside the Rache disappeared into the night leaving the bar to burn with an intense heat.
Emergency crews pulled nearly one hundred confirmed casualties out of the bar over the course of the clean up operation with dozens more thought to have burned to death in the intense fire that had enveloped the the bar. Several days later the Rache suit was found abandoned and burnt out in trees several kilometres from the bar Clan Watch units and intelligence units on Tukayyid working on behalf of the Loremaster find that several Sea Fox Merchants had taken it upon themselves to target the Free Guilds because of their successes. This results in nearly a dozen Sea Fox arrests with each of the traders quickly found guilty and executed by members of their own Clan’s Warrior Caste.
Clan Wolf Command Tent
Pollux, Star League Protectorate
8th July 3112
Clan Wolf had launched another wave of attacks on the Star League Protectorate targeting Pollux, Devil’s Rock and Denebola intent on taking another step closer to their conquest of unfortunately on all three worlds they had encountered elements of the First Knights of the Inner Sphere Regimental Brigade, the Third Sirius Regimental Brigade and the Guard Regiments of each world as well as naval assets in the Denebola system which had destroyed the Wolf vessel Moore’s Honour and sent the invasion into retreat.
On Pollux and Devil’s Rock the Wolves had not encountered naval forces and had instead forced their way through the SLDF aerospace forces and landed on the two worlds. On Devil’s Rock Khan Amina Kerensky stiffened the resolve of the forces while saKhan Evan Kell led forces on Pollux.
“What do you mean dead?†Evan Kell demanded hearing the news that he had both dreaded and almost expected his command tent had gone from a hive of activity to near silence in a moment. According to the latest report Khan Amina Kerensky had been killed as her command was overwhelmed by the First Knights of the Sphere on Devil’s Rock.
“Sir, according to our troops who lifted off Devil’s Rock Khan Amina Kerensky died when her OmniMech took a direct hit to the cockpit by an enemy gauss rifle.â€
“A warrior’s death†Evan Kell said crediting her with that at least that. He'd have preferred she had survived to help lead her Clan but it was the Clan way for warriors to wish glory regardless of their rank. Now he could try to steer the Wolves on a path closer to that of the path the Exiles were on.
“Aff, Khan Kell, until further notice you are the new Khan of Clan Wolf and in charge of this invasion…†the warrior said only to be interrupted by the sound of gun fire. The warrior turned away from his Khan towards the door only to be faced with a hail of bullets all meant for Evan Kell. As the warrior was torn apart by the support machine gun Kell dived behind a table and drew his sidearm unfortunately the SLDF Power Armour were not finished there the two black clad figures entered the tent and opened fire with their support machine guns gunning down everyone present in a vicious head-hunter attack. Even behind his table Evan Kell was not safe to the sustained weapons fire and intent on being remembered as a fighting Khan he rose from his position and engaged the two troopers gaining headshots on both but penetrating neither suit’s armour. The return fire killed Evan Kell and in a space of a day Clan Wolf had lost two Khans.
With Wolf forces robbed of their leadership and in retreat the SLDF are able to push forwards over the next couple of weeks and secure both Devil’s Rock and Pollux. They then push into the Wolf Empire liberating Milton and Alchiba while the Lyran Commonwealth’s Skye Command shows solidarity with the SLDF, and seizes on an opportunity to liberate some territory, to liberate Pheoda and Shiloh from Clan Wolf. Without leadership Clan Wolf fall into a defensive pattern aggressively defending their remaining systems.
Border fighting
Erod’s Escape, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
11th July 3112
Clan Nova Cat’s campaign against the Taurian Concordat resumes with the invasions of Erod’s Escape, Colchis and Belle Isle. Fighting against the First Taurian Pride and the First Protectorate Guard the Nova Cat’s make quick progress in taking over their positions. Fighting among the Nova Cat forces on Erod’s Escape is Lucian Nova Cat, formerly Bondsman and now a MechWarrior, he quickly proves himself downing two enemy Mechs and destroying three tanks during the fighting leading to him winning the right to a Trial of Position following the battle. Fighting against another Nova Cat MechWarrior he wins the right to the rank of Star Commander in the Nova Cat Touman.
The Nova Cat’s quickly secure Erod’s Escape and Colchis but Belle Isle hold’s out longer with the Taurians surprising the Clan with two mercenary units supporting the worlds defence holding off the invaders. Elsewhere in the Concordat SLDF and Taurian commands plan their next coordinated moves against the Nova Cats while on Taurus eighteen-year-old Nikola Calderon the daughter of Erik Martens-Calderon and heir to the Taurian leadership begins her formal martial training intent on joining the Taurian Armed Forces and assisting in the defence of her nation.
Recovery ward, Royal Hospital of Donegal
Donegal, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
21st July 3112
Tears streamed down Millie Milovich face as she laid on the hospital bed on Donegal and thought about what she and her people had gone through in the last week. She’d awoken after being hospitalized for more than a week on Donegal after her unit’s defeat on Odessa along with other mercenary units, Lyran Commonwealth commands and units of the Star League Defence Force. Her own Marauder II C had been destroyed in the fighting and in total more than half of her unit had lost their lives or been dispossessed during the fighting.
---
A week before on Odessa Millie Milovich moved her BattleMech to the left avoiding a particle cannon shot but instantly walking into a flight of long range missiles followed by laser fire. Armour shattered and boiled away from her BattleMech as one of the unit’s Stronghold armoured trailers exploded under enemy fire. The Jade Falcons had hit Odessa with six front-line clusters with several WarShips supporting now it was a fight for survival as the Clansmen stormed into their lines and strafed them from above.
“Pull back to point BRAVO, abandon ALPHA, repeat abandon BRAVO rendezvous!†She called out as her Marauder II C was struck by a Gauss rifle from a running Jade Falcon Shadow Cat II. The sixty-ton BattleMech quickly followed up with missile fire which devoured more of her armour as she fought to stay in control.
Behind the Shadow Cat II however something caught Milovich’s eye she’d seen the silhouette before but had yet to set her eyes on the design. In the centre of the Jade Falcon formation was the newest of the Clan’s OmniMechs the fifty-ton Black Harrier. Milovich targeted the Shadow Cat II intent on keeping the heavy at bay while gathering sensor data on the new target, sensor data that would pay as much as their entire Lyran contract but her efforts were thwarted by intense Jade Falcon ECM cover. She realised she’d fallen behind the other mercenaries with her and now she had to fight for her life just to escape the Clansmen across the line BattleMech’s from Van Halen’s Heavy Cavalry and from the Rubinsky’s Light Horse littered the field as did armour from the Star League and Lyran Commonwealth. The main bulk of the fighting for the defence of Odessa was to the north of hear near the capital city while this fight was more of a side show for the defenders and for the attackers.
“Continue to fall back†she called out as her BattleMech was slammed once heavily then several more times from behind which was quickly followed by two more heavy hits. Unseen by Milovich the Black Harrier had jumped into her BattleMech’s “Six†position and unloaded its weapons into her back. Even as the Marauder II C began to fall Milovich triggered the auto-eject then everything went blank.
---
Millie Milovich blinked away the tears “what happened?â€
“Part of the cockpit jammed in place struck your command chair and knocked you off course†her acting XO Ronald Guyan explained “we found you far behind our lines.â€
“Lucky I went that way†she remarked “did my sensor data make it?â€
“Yes sir†Guyan said triumphantly. It wouldn’t bring back their lost people but it would help pay for medical bills and keep the Marauders solvent at least for a little longer.
“We need to exercise our escape clause†she groaned lifting from the bed only for Guyan to make her lay back down.
“It’s already done†he said she looked at him quizzically “we currently have three fully operational BattleMechs another five in various states of repair and four tanks we’re not going to win any battles and you are a member of the dispossessed.â€
“I can get another Mech from my own emergency fund, you know this, our money should be enough to repair our assets even without the Intelligence Scans. We just need to get out of this meatgrinder and off the border to rest and refit before the Lyrans have an idea of impounding our assets for “the war.â€
“I know which is why I’ve already turned down three attempts to buy our salvage and refused further operations.†He said showing he was confident, capable and interested in keeping his new job.
“How did the others get out?â€
“The Heavy Cavalry are looking at 50% losses they’ve already packed up and headed for Galatea, the Twelfth Armoured came out very well I’d say 75% or higher survival rate. They’ve already accepted another mission from the Lyrans†he said he could see she was impressed “they are also the ones who tried to put us permanently out of business trying to buy all our battle salvage and two damaged BattleMechs.â€
“Why would they want to put another merc out of business like that?†She wondered “fine we’re heading for Solaris VII we need a break from this fighting and some neutral ground while we try and figure out our next move.â€
“Anywhere away from the Falcons?â€
“Neg, they’ve tried to destroy this unit as Barber’s Marauders and now as Millie’s Marauders. The Falcons need to learn we’re not giving up that easy.â€
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Elsewhere the Lyrans reel away from Odessa losing two-line regiments of troops, two WarShips confirmed destroyed and another the LCS Skye heavily damaged. The SLDF lose a WarShip and suffer heavy damage to the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser SLS Wasp which had shielded SLDF units from the heaviest damage during the retreat. With the Fourth Royal Light Infantry taking the most damage losing nearly two thirds of their forces to the Jade Falcons. Within days of the loss two further systems fall to the Jade Falcons as the Clan pushes deeper into Lyran territory.
Titanic, Sea Fox-class ArcShip
Moon Orbit, Atreus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
23rd July 3112
In a matched orbit with the moon of the world Atreus the Sea Fox WarShips Titanic and her escort ships Mako and Dreamfyre sat silently watched by the MS Concordia and her escorts. The Sea Fox vessels were not here however as aggressors instead they were delivering an important guest. Attached to the WarShip was a Broadsword-class DropShip the DDS Cantabria a vessel of the Military forces of Dieron Lady Abigail Cleburn stood at the observation windows and looked at the seat of parliament for the Free Worlds League.
“Do you think they will agree to our proposals?â€
“I do not know†the clan warrior/trader Sandra admitted “it is a bold thing that you and your people have proposed. You have my Khanate’s full support whichever way it goes we will ensure your return to the District of Dieron.â€
“I know you will I appreciate that Sandra the Sea Fox support for my people has been very appreciated.â€
“Our support is not without a cost Lady Cleburn. The Foxes will expect to receive their reward regardless of the outcome today. If not then the consequences could be dire†the Sea Fox warrior warned Abigail Cleburn nodded she understood as did Empress Emiko Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark the price was a trade of an entire solar system from Dieron’s to Sea Fox control.
“As I understand Nirasaki’s government has already began to transfer control to Sea Fox officials, why you would want such a planet I have no idea it’s not as though the population have ever shown any interest in anything but their own little world.â€
“Exactly it is close enough to Dieron for it to be useful for our dealings with your people and it is a gateway system to the Star League Protectorate meaning we can use it as a place to make deals and transport items into the League. The local government’s lack of interest in anything but what affects Nirasaki makes it a near perfect candidate for my Clan.†Sandra said deciding to press further “it is also an insignificant world, if Dieron falls none of the states around it including the Draconis Combine will care that it has been lost.â€
“You’re probably correct.†Lady Cleburn said intentionally using the contraction to annoy the Clansmen.
“Good luck with your negotiations†Sandra said deciding the conversation was over for now.
---
Hours later Lady Abigail Cleburn and her negotiation team had agreed a trade agreement between the Free Worlds League and District of Dieron. With this trade agreement Free Worlds League based companies would be allowed to open mining facilities in the District of Dieron while Dieron companies would be allowed to do the same in the FWL as long as both they hired local workers. Military contractors on both sides would be allowed to bid for defence contracts while both nations would be allowed to bid on mercenary units based in each others realms. Facilitating the link between the two nations would be the Sea Foxes who would be allowed to pass through the neighbouring nations without incident in exchange they would be gain full control over Nirasaki in the District of Dieron and over Ideyid in the District of Marik of the Free Worlds League. The Sea Foxes already had deep links into Ideyid after having a trade base there for several years and forging links with the local population. In the Free Worlds League the populations of Mundrabilla and Shasta which also have Sea Fox populations are noticeably concerned by the expansion of Sea Fox control on the world of Ideyid with dozens of members of the populace planning to move out of the system.
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Ah the Free Guilds. Writing conflict between them (a Clan without warriors) and anyone else is pretty tough to imagine outside the realm of civilian competition.
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Ah the Free Guilds. Writing conflict between them (a Clan without warriors) and anyone else is pretty tough to imagine outside the realm of civilian competition.
I agree with you Takiro I knew I wanted to utilise them somehow after their origin was pointed out in Blacknovas KU but I also knew I couldn't just use them and not have some sort of competition taking an extreme look at modern capitalism and corporate conflict the "multiplying by Clan" turned out not badly now however I want to work on deepening their story
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As I am developing my own angle on the Free Guilds (= Clan Belters) I look forward to more from your setting.
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Clan Wolf Council
Clan Council Chambers, Sheridan
Wolf Empire
1st August 3112
With their Khans dead Clan Wolf had to elect new Khans meaning that all bloodnamed members of the Clan had been recalled to the recently completed Clan Council Chambers on Sheridan. The chambers were based on those that had once been constructed on Strana Mechty and on Tamar infact much of the materials used to build these chambers had been used on Tamar allowing the Wolves to maintain their connection to the path they had taken. Recently with the inclusion of the Exiles into their Clan there had been calls for an additional wing to be added to the facility using materials which had been used when building the Exile facilities on Arc Royal but with the death of Evan Kell those calls had already fallen away.
“I am Gloria Shaw, the Loremaster of Clan Wolf, we have taken great losses some that would be the death of some Clans but not of Clan Wolf. The loss of Amina Kerensky and of Evan Kell were body blows to this Clan†she said her huge hulking Elemental frame stood strongly infront of the couple of hundred bloodnamed warriors she was all that was left of their leadership but now a new beginning was going to happen. “Today we will elect new leadership from among your number but first I must also announce that the SLDF’s Third Special Operation’s Group were intercepted on Dieudonne by forces under the command of Star Colonel Jerricho. The Dark Keshik has almost been destroyed but these unblooded warriors proved the capability of Clan Wolf and the strength of our future.
“SEYLA!†The entire crowd of Wolves called at once.
“Seyla†Gloria Shaw repeated “Bloodhouses announce your candidates for the Khanship of Clan Wolf. If there is no concensus by vote of the Bloodnamed these warriors should stand ready to fight for command of this Clan.â€
“I am Star Colonel Edna Metha leader of my Bloodhouse. Our vote is combined with that of Ryde, Ch’in, Sradac and Conners to elect Merrick Sradac to the post of Khan.†She said naming the Elemental warrior representing lesser bloodhouses he had little chance of leading Clan Wolf.
“You are welcome to contend†Gloria Shaw said diplomatically all knew that his position was a minor one.
“I am Galaxy Commander Linda Kerensky in the footsteps of Amina Kerensky and of the founder, I call for Sebastian Kerensky to be the next Khan of Clan Wolf.†Even with only the backing of the Kerensky Bloodhouse Sebastian Kerensky had a greater claim than Merrick Sradac.
“I am Cabe Kell, my bloodhouse leader is dead killed at the hands of the Star League Defence Force. I will see all Inner Sphere forces fall to Clan Wolf guns.†He said Cabe Kell was a young man wearing the field uniform of a Clan Wolf MechWarrior.
“What is your rank young warrior?†Gloria Shaw asked
“I have yet to attain a rank in Clan Wolf. I have fought and defeated Jade Falcons, Lyrans and Star League forces. I am ready to fight against Wolves if I must but I would rather unite our Clan and defeat our enemies.â€
“Seyla†Gloria Shaw said nodding approvingly her approval would give him a chance but his lack of rank or previous leadership would hurt him. “Are there any other challengers?†Shaw asked there were none over the next hour the Wolves debated which warrior had the best standing and examined each warrior’s codex in minute detail they quickly eliminated Merrick Sradac finding that he had commanded a unit of warriors that had failed in a mission to eliminate a group of the dark caste leaving only Cade Kell and Sebastian Kerensky. As was often the case with Clan politics Bloodhouses that were in a strong position often stayed there despite the Kell’s status as an Exile Bloodhouse and its short history it still rallied many of the Wolves to its call. While the Kerensky name was unquestioned as was the eventual result.
“I am Sebastian Kerensky I respect the challenge put up by Cade Kell but his time is not now. We are in a precarious position we must solidify our position before trying to expand again.†The Kerensky Bloodhouse candidate state in his closing argument.
“I am Cade Kell, I am young, I am inexperienced in command but I also believe that Clan Wolf must continue on the path began by Amina Kerensky and supported by Evan Kell. The Star League Defence Force is an affront to what the Clans stand for it must fall.â€
“SEYLA!†The Wolves around him cried
“I said when this began, I will fight Wolves who are not willing to fight for Clan Wolf’s position in the Inner Sphere.â€
“Then you will have to kill at least one. I challenge you to a Circle of Equals may no other enter.â€
“I accept, single shot pistols at twenty paces tomorrow at dawn.†Cade Kell said smiling as he saw the other warrior’s reaction of surprise few people would pick such weapons when only a couple of shots would result in a kill.
“Agreed†Sebastian Kerensky said
“SEYLA!†The Wolves around them cried in unison.
The next morning Sebastian Kerensky and Cade Kell stood with their backs to each other both holding high calibre pistols. At the beat of a drum they each took ten paces apart stopping on the tenth each waited half a second before turning on the spot and taking their shot. Sebastian Kerensky turned faster than Cade and fired first the bullet hitting the young exile mid-turn hitting his right shoulder destroying the joint and mangling his arm knocking him off balance and to the ground. The event was broadcast across the Wolf Empire by HPG. Sebastian Kerensky raised his weapon in celebration and turned to face the Tri-vid cameras as he did the bullet from Cade Kell’s weapon struck him in the armpit of his raised arm the bullet travelled quickly through the joint and penetrated Sebastian Kerensky’s skull killing the warrior instantly. The last thing the Tri-vid cameras showed was a victorious Cade Kell laying on the ground being tended to by Wolf medics assuming he could make a recovery and prove he was still able to fight he would be the new Clan Wolf Khan. Hours after the battle word was passed that Cade Kell’s arm had been amputated and that he needed a new limb grown.
Parliament
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
4th August 3112
“The question was quite clear Duke Brewer-Cameron-Jones.†Captain-General Abraham Ledford asked looking at the other man.
“Are there surviving elements of Clan Smoke Jaguar on the world of Twin Sons in the system of the same name?â€
“Yes†Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones responded throughout the Parliament chamber there was a wave of surprise. “These people are survivors of the holocaust that was inflicted on their people…â€
“A justified end to them!†Someone shouted out
“Remember Edo!†Another shouted
“Silence, you will allow the District of Lesnovo’s leader to speak. Continue†the Captain-General said as leader of the neighbouring District of Bowang Ledford had a keen interest in hearing exactly what influence these Jaguars had.
“These people have helped bring peace to the Twin Sons system a system that has been at a state of internal conflict since its colonisation by House Marik. The Jaguars make up a tiny portion of their population.â€
“But they have gained power with their ‘bringing the peace’?†Ledford asked
“That is correct Khan Petra Furey…†he said he heard several gasp again at hearing the Clan rank “Khan Petra Furey has dedicated her people to defending Twin Sons and improving the lives of all peoples on that world and in our District. These people are not the Smoke Jaguars who invaded the Inner Sphere most of them now were born on Twin Sons, they have fought and bled for the people of that system not some distant leader who believes in the conquest of the Inner Sphere. I accept their support for my nation and offer them the full protection of my District.â€
“Treason!†One shouted out
“Then perhaps someone also judge this parliament for continuing to accept Sea Foxes on our worlds iand in our space.†The Duke said continuing meeting the eyes of others in the crowd “each of you have voted time and again to accept weapons and trade shipments from Clan Sea Fox. In some cases we have openly seeked their trade these Jaguars are no different.â€
“History tells us different things.†Jonas Halas said
“History is written by the victors†Joseph Marik said speaking up for the first time. “We cannot and we will not forget Edo but I believe we should judge these people for their own accomplishments not on what known history tells us.†While not the Captain-General Duke Joseph Marik’s stature and lineage place him in good standing with the Parliament. Captain-General Ledford did not disagree with Duke Marik and called a vote Ledford’s, Joseph Marik’s and Robert Brett-Marik’s full support the motion was passed by the Parliament to accept the Smoke Jaguars as members of the District of Lesnov to be used at the will of Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Marik and the government of Lesnovo.
Border raids
Kessel, Kessel Prefecture
District of Dieron
11th August 3112
MechWarrior Kiyoshi Fuwa spun his Dragon BattleMech to the right away from the Lyran Thanatos but felt his BattleMech be peppered by medium range missiles and lasers. The Fifth and Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards RCTs had arrived on Kessel two days before and had quickly moved on the defenders taking key defensive points. Fuwa turned on the Thanatos and returned the attack but the Dragon wasn’t a match for the heavier and faster Lyran Mech more lasers and missiles cut into his BattleMech causing damage across its BattleMech’s form.
On the ground passing behind the back of Kiyoshi Fuwa’s Dragon a fast-moving hovercraft with Lyran markings shot past quickly opening fire with multiple SRMs the Dieron pilot attempted to follow the hovercraft but his distraction allowed the Thanatos to unload another salvo into the Dragon ending its fight. Across Kessel similar battles had worked out as the Lyrans quickly secured the Prefecture Capital along with Komephoros and Alraski while also striking at La Blon, Kimball II and Konstance.
The loss of these worlds sends shockwaves throughout the District of Dieron as worlds begin questioning the Districts ability to keep them safe from harm with some worlds covertly contacting neighbouring realms and looking for other nations to step in and assist them. The worlds of Kimball II and Konstance now isolated due to the loss of Kessel even go as far as to contacting the Rasalhague Dominion. The Bears see this as an invitation and immediately deploy two clusters of warriors to these worlds securing them for the Rasalhague Dominion.
Pirate raid
Bandon, New Port Royal9
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
13th August 3112
As the Nova Cat’s continue assaults against the Taurian Concordat capturing the system of Tyrrhenia they are attacked from outside as they face Trials of Possession with the Federated Suns for the systems of Belogost, Kiza and McRae. The Nova Cat’s succeed in holding Kiza but losing both Belogost and McRae.
Meanwhile on the world of New Tortuga pirate forces assault the Nova Cat settlement of Bandon with a motley collection of pirate vehicles razing the entire settlement of ten thousand citizens in one attack. Before the Nova Cat defenders of the 109th Strike Cluster could attend the site of the attack as a result of the attack Star Colonel Lin Bavros is executed by the Nova Cats leadership for failing to defend a system deep within the Nova Cat’s Den. Within a week of the attack Rossei’s Triumph and Fletcher’s Feast are also attacked with a small arms factory on Rossei’s Triumph ransacked and an armoured vehicle factory attacked on Fletcher’s Feast. On Fletchers the 68th Nova Cat Roar Cluster intercept the pirates and capture several of the pirates. After lengthy interrogations the pirates are identified from Morghui a moon located in a periphery system far from any other nation.
Trial of Possession
Sea Fox Shipyards, Jarnfolk space
Periphery
23rd August 3112
The pair of Clan Lynx Batu OmniFighters spun and manoeuvred away from the Sea Fox Avar OmniFighters as they attempted to defend their claim to the Shipyards below. This Trial of Possession had been declared by the Lynx Clan and so far, their heavier fighters had the advantage over the lighter faster Sea Fox aircraft.
Turning to the left a pair of laser beams fired from the Batus hit one of the Avar’s mid-line across its hull the high energy beams shattered the aerospace fighters hull blowing it apart. The second craft barrel rolled away unleashing a salvo of short-range missiles which slammed into the cockpit of one of the Batus opening it to space.
The remaining Batu continued to turn evasively avoiding follow up laser fire from the Avar the Batu inverted its rear laser firing at the Avar but missing. More missiles followed the Lynx craft causing armour damage but not enough to take it out of the fight instead the Batu pilot used its reaction control thrusters to spin on the spot and fired multiple pulse laser blasts into the Avar knocking the smaller fighter out winning the Lynx Clan the Trial. From the victory the Lynx Clan won the right to build a newly designed seventy-ton Aerospace Fighter named the Gaugamela.
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The Gaugamela Aerospace Fighter
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=2828.0 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=2828.0)
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Oh very nice, your incorporating the Gaugamela as well!
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Oh very nice, your incorporating the Gaugamela as well!
Cool beans.
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Always good to see an update on this :)
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Combat Drop
Las Halles, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
8th September 3112
The skies of Las Halles was filled with falling snow and falling BattleMechs as the Eagle’s Talons Regiment approached the surface of the world. Marshal Richard Steiner looked into the sky and watched the BattleMech’s fall behind them several DropShips approached the surface of the planet.
“A bit of a flashy entrance†Colonel Sofia Bukhalova said looking into the air.
“Make sure out perimeter guards are alert tonight and have an extra battalion on standby just in case.â€
“You think they’ll test our LZ?â€
“I think they’ll want to make sure they are noticed.â€
“We had a planned training session with the militia.â€
“Cancel it, no-one leaves the LZ until we figure out where the Talons are coming from.â€
“Understood†she said as the last of the Mechs disappeared from sight landing behind them the DropShips were still initiating their landing sequences.
“I’ll contact Prefect Smit and explain that we do not mean hostile intent towards the Eagle’s Talons. With any luck their JumpShips could get us off the border and heading home.†Marshal Richard Steiner suggested the Colonel looked at him like he’d just said something funny. “Yeah, silly hope.â€
As they’d suggested the Eagle’s Talons refused to give them the transports needed to get the unit back to the Federated Suns instead the FWL unit set up with the militia in a defensive pattern and called for an end to all joint operations with the Kathil Uhlans. They did not however stop the First Kathil Uhlans continuing to trade with local businesses for supplies.
Almost two weeks after the arrival of the Eagle’s Talons the First ComGuard Brigade, the SLS Firedrake and the SLS Siberia arrived in the system. They had been deployed following the FSS Comet’s arrival at New Olympica and arrived to ensure that units of the two Star League states did not come to blows. The added manpower from the Eagles Talons and SLDF also added a massive amount of extra business to the economy of Las Halles.
Proving Ground
Haven, Colleen system
Deep Periphery, Clan Homeworlds
10th September 3112
Standing with saKhan Mira Collesano of the Blood Spirits and Goliath Scorpion Khan Ingo Yeh the Blood Spirit Khan Alex Lassenum stood watching as two Blood Spirit MechWarriors and two Goliath Scorpion Warriors battled in four new Obsidian Mantis OmniMechs. The Obsidian Mantis was a new sixty-ton OmniMech developed by the Blood Spirits to reinforce their lines.
“Impressive designs†Ingo Yeh said “I appreciate your Clan sharing some of the production with mine.â€
“Too much shared†Mira Coollesano said she was annoyed that Alex Lassenum had agreed to supply the Goliath Scorpions.
“We will begin our next deployment very soon†Ingo Yeh said.
“Where are you targeting next?â€
“Huntress then we are going to reinforce our forces on Hector.†Yeh explained recently things had moved forwards for the Clans in their struggle against the Society now the Blood Spirits and Goliath Scorpions had holdings on New Kent, Hector, Sheridan and Glory with both Clans running supply missions to their forces there. While the Clans couldn’t claim dominance over any of the worlds, they had more say in those systems development than any other. “Where are your Blood Spirits hitting next?â€
“There is a rumour that the Society is developing a new type of WarShip we are going to have a look at their facilities at Brim.â€
“That place is a fortress Khan Lassenum.â€
“Aff, Khan Yeh, which is why it is our target.†Mira Collesano explained “we will cut off this new threat while we can.â€
“I wish you well†Yeh said as the two battles below them finished the two Clans had shared the honours in the battle with both a Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion warrior claiming victory. “I hope this is a good sign for both of our peoples.
Jade Falcon Offensive
Isle of Skye, Kirkcaldy
Lyran Commonwealth
13th September 3112
Following a successful blitzkrieg campaign that had seen the Lyrans brutally occupy Knockengen, Hillerod, Porrima and Veckholm the destruction of two front-line units and of two Lyran WarShips at the cost of one of their own WarShips and the majority of three Clusters the Jade Falcons were on the verge of breaking into the Isle of Skye region of the Lyran Commonwealth with an attack on Kirkcaldy.
Intent on scouting the system before launching a full assault the Jade Falcon’s elite Eighth Falcon Jaegers Cluster fast burn onto the planet avoiding Lyran aerospace forces landing near Fife City they move on the positions occupied by the Sixth Commonwealth Guards RCT only to be pounded by artillery fired by the unit’s armour battalion and several Trutzburg-class DropShips. Each of the DropShips was armed with three turreted Long Tom Artillery pieces which together essentially added a second artillery battalion to the armour forces firepower. This barrage of fire was enhanced by the Sixth’s two armour regiments which were dug into the hillside and were sniping at the Clan force.
Following the artillery barrage came the Sixth’s Mech and Battle Armour regiments which tear into the disorientated Clan Cluster. Normally an elite Clan Cluster would be a match for a Veteran Inner Sphere Regiment but facing the majority of an RCT alone the Eighth Falcon Jaegers essentially cease to be in the heavy fighting. As well as the Trutzburg’s debut the Lyrans also are able to deploy a new BattleMech during the fighting the fifty-five-ton Eisenkanone. Inspired by the Hollander and Hollander II BattleMechs the Eisenkanone is an example of the “one big gun†philosophy of BattleMech design although it is slow for its weight Class the BattleMech brings an Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle to the battlefield, a weapon normally only seen on certain heavy and assault units, making it a threat to BattleMechs several tons heavier when used correctly.
Battlefield, SLDF Lines
Belle Isle, Taurian Concordat
18th September 3112
Sergeant Alberto Ammann hefted his Federated-Boeing AR-72 Assault rifle from one side of the trench to the other targeting a group of incoming Clan Nova Cat battle armour with Mechs in support. Alberto was a member of the Fourth Royal Infantry Regiment and a member of the detachment of the Brigade that had been sent to Belle Isle elsewhere members of the Star League unit had been deployed to support the defence of the Concordat. He personally found it hilarious that he and his men were members of the SLDF a modern organisation that had been created to defend the Inner Sphere from the Clans. The Clans were descendants of the original SLDF who's own decedents had fought to subjugate the Taurian Concordat which now the Nova Cats were fighting to do. The Fourth Royal Regimental Brigade was spread all over the Concordat supporting the Taurians. “Here they come boys now all of you remember target those battle suits by the squad it’s the only way to penetrate their armour.†He commanded snapping back to reality watching the Clans close.
“ARROW! ARROW! ARROW!†The warning suddenly blasted over every radio in the vicinity. For a moment the SLDF troopers froze not sure how to react to the Taurian accented voice. An “Arrow†launch code in Taurian space meant one thing someone had fired a nuclear weapon in their direction.
“Masks on!†Alberto Ammann screamed at his men after a moment “Seal your fucking armour and get the hell into that trench!†He screamed as the full realisation of what was going on. “Com’on move it, now! Eat the dirt†he said as the men hurriedly pulled radiation masks over their uniform and tried to close any gaps Alberto himself was doing the same thing. The belief was that the masks and seals would be enough to keep the radiation out for long enough to get themselves back to a base where it could be washed off but few of them believed it. “This isn’t a drill do it now!†He continued to shout in the sky above him there was a ferocious roar as the missile flew overhead Alberto took one final look at the incoming Clansmen before diving into the trench. Once as low as he could get, he hurriedly pulled a silver blanket which was designed to protect him from the heat blast over his body. Alberto keyed his mic one more time “Keep down boys and girls wait out the coming storm†he said as the missile hit it’s target nearly two kilometres away hitting the Nova Cat Landing Zone destroying their DropShips and sending a wave of fire and radiation out.
The blast quickly passed over the joint SLDF/Taurian Cocordat lines flipping over vehicles and knocking over BattleMechs. For a few moments’ screams filled the radios as ill prepared troopers were caught up by the blast wave before everything went silent as the following EMP fried unprepared circuits.
The Nova Cats who were closest to the blast were almost all killed or crippled by the blast while nearly a third of the SLDF detachment had been killed by the blast. In the hours after the missile attack all SLDF forces pull off Belle Isle by the command of General Marta Mallozzi as the SLDF pulled back from the front-lines demanding that the Taurians lock away their remaining nuclear weapons. In the coming days the Nova Cats returned to Belle Isle destroying the First Taurian Pride Regiment days after the Nova Cats also landed on Mirfak assaulting the Taurian Concordat forces their but being driven back as the Taurians defended the Germanium deposits there using nuclear weapons to cripple the Nova Cat WarShip Excalibur in the system.
Coordinator’s quarters, Imperial Palace
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
22nd September 3112
After a year imprisoned in the Imperial Palace on New Samarkand having gotten through a spate of depression Akira Kurita was ready to retake his place as leader of the Draconis Combine unfortunately the guards were all loyal to Hirohito Kurita so he and his wife Julia would have to act alone.
“You are ready†Akira said to her as they waited for the guards to arrive with their daily food. Julia nodded her response playing the subservient wife that the Combine guards had come to accept few of them knew she was trained in the martial art of Kung Fu. Their guards had attempted to put cameras in their quarters but Akira had broken them they may have been aware of Akira’s attempts at training her in Karate but they had no idea about her own abilities.
The doors to their quarters opened and as was expected of them both Akira and Julia Kurita stood at the door and bowed to them as the two guards in dress uniform entered after all this time all they had on them were their side arms and ceremonial katana and wakizashi swords. Both guards bowed out of respect for the Kurita family and that was when they acted Akira took the guard on the right while Julia took the one on the left both striking out at the same time. The guards were momentarily taken by surprise staggering backwards but staying on their feet it then became a battle of skills and strength. Akira was stronger than his guard but his guard was armed and quickly reached for his sidearm which Akira kicked away immediately the guard reached for his katana only for Akira to strike the guard several times knocking him backwards the sword falling to the floor. As he reacted to Akira’s attack the former Coordinator of the Draconis Combine rolled across the floor snatching the Katana blade into his hand as he did completing his roll he brought the weapon around in a circular motion cutting down the guard in a singular blow.
Meanwhile Julia had used her speed to avoid her guard’s blows ducking and rolling while striking out at her opponent as he drew his sidearm instead of knocking the weapon away, she rapidly disarmed him gaining control over the weapon she fired several shots cutting him down. Without time to waste they moved towards the door Akira picked up the other guards sidearm as he stepped through the door which allowed him to miss the shots fired at the doors by the other guards. Julia was not so lucky as she stepped out of the door two shots struck her in the chest her weapon falling to the ground as she lost her grip and staggered under the fire Akira raised his weapon and fired at the incoming guards killing one while he watched his wife fall to the floor he could tell she was dead before she hit the ground.
The Coordinator screamed in anger firing several more shots down the corridor cutting down another guard before taking one last look at his falled partner. Finally knowing there was nothing he could do but escape he turned and ran into the Imperial Palace searching for a way out. Several hours of searching later the guards had failed to locate Coordinator Akira Kurita he had found a way to leave the Palace without being seen and was now somewhere in the Imperial City. Coordinator Hirohito Kurita commanded that the Imperial City be placed under martial law until the “fugitive†was brought to justice.
Meeting House,
Mopelia Island, New Earth
Star League Protectorate
25th September 3112
A group of nine members sat around a wooden table with a book in the centre of the table. It was a copy of the Clans Remembrance once that had once belonged to Clan Smoke Jaguar and was known among the people sat there as The Unopened Book. As far as the people gathered today were concerned it was the last known copy of the Smoke Jaguar Remembrance but today’s news appeared to cast doubt on that fact.
On the Tri-vid screen beside them was a recording of the recent Free Worlds League Parliament in which the District of Lesnovo had publicly declared that members of Clan Smoke Jaguar not only lived but were flourishing in the Free Worlds League.
“Custos, we must meet with this Khan†one member of the group said looking at the leader of the group who must have been close to one hundred years old. Clearly an elemental by birth with an artificial arm replacing one that had been lost in previous combat.
“We must not, they are not Smoke Jaguars, the Smoke Jaguar Clan is dead. If they are anything than they are dark caste who have no name to claim but a dead one.†Another said angrily that was the opinions of the two sides of the Fidelis movement one who was happy to see their people live in peace on New Earth and the other that wished for them to go out and face those who challenged them.
“Our agreement with the Star League Defence Force is quite clear†Custos said quietly “we have supported the people of New Earth in their time of need.†He said referring to the terrorist bombings that had rocked the world in 3092. “But the moment that we deploy forces off of New Earth we become an armed force of the Star League Defence Force they can call on our forces until our debts are paid. They did not have to give us sanctuary on this world Bannister Cameron could have turned us away he did not our debts are great.â€
“We already have elements off this planet.â€
“Flatus is not a threat to anyone the Star League know this they allow us to keep her to humour themselves.â€
“If only they knew†another said smiling the Star League knew about their WarShip hidden in the asteroid belt they believed it was tethered to one of the largest asteroids there and hadn’t been serviced or moved since it’s arrival. What they didn’t know was that the Fidelis had built a support structure around it, repaired, serviced and modified the vessel to a modern standard making it far more of a match for other vessels.
“They are also happy for us to supply them with BattleMechs from the Yankee facility.â€
“And turn a blind eye to some of our other facilities.†Custos reminded them “I am not against investigating these Jaguars claims but we must weigh the costs to our people.†He said finally a vote was taken shortly afterwards and a decision was made the Fidelis would travel to the District of Lesnovo and discover more about these would be Jaguars.
Open Space near Galatea Station
SLDS Prometheus, Isegrim-class DropShip
Galatea, Star League Protectorate
30th September 3112
“This is Captain Bruce Boxleitner of the DropShip Prometheus to District of Dieron forces you have entered Star League Defence Force claimed space. Galatea and its station are off-limits to hostilities. Further action by your forces will result in your destruction.†He said cutting the communication channel from his command chair “copy that message to the station and to the Subtlety.â€
“Subtlety has said they are standing by should anything bigger come through.â€
“We’ll holler if we need them†he said looking at the screens seeing the squadron of fighters from the station were staying close.
“Communication from the Dieron vessel their entry into this system was in error Lyran forces from the Lyons system were retreating and they believed they had come through here.â€
“Reply that their message is understood and as they can see they have not entered this system and that if they wish to push the matter the McKenna-class Battleship behind us will happily answer them.â€
“Most of the Subtlety’s weapons manned by cadets.â€
“They don’t know that†the Captain said “target the forward guns see if that gets the message across.â€
“Message from Galatea Station to the Dieron forces, it’s the Governor, he’s offering them an option to retreat with their equipment intact or face the wolf.†The communications officer said Boxleitner smiled at the response when the SLDF had assigned him here to help transition the people from the Lyran Commonwealth to the SLDF he hadn’t been too sure if he’d like Governor O’Hare but the two of them had fit together quite well. Now as Dieron and Skye exchanged blows, and systems, it appeared that they’d have to work even closer together. In the most recent attacks Lyons had been captured by Dieron while six other systems, seven if Galatea was included, had been raided as the District of Dieron attempted to assert itself with its neighbours.
“Message from JumpShips they are recalling their DropShips and standing down.â€
“Very good, stand down weapons and begin deacceleration bring us down to one G. The fighters can dock at the recharge station to refuel.†He said smiling over the last six months engineering teams had completed the system’s first recharge station a cut down version of the Olympus-class stations it featured no common areas for visitors instead it was purely a fuelling station for JumpShips, WarShips and DropShips. Anyone wishing to stay in the system had to travel to Galatea Station to conclude their business. Due to traffic in the system already there were plans for a second recharge station and talk of a second station on the scale of Galatea Station being built the system’s primary inhabited world may have been abandoned but this system was very much a light in the constant night of space.
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I borrowed a couple of unit's for this month's update
The Eisenkanone
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=64042.0 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=64042.0)
And the
The Obsidian Mantis
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3506.msg43953#msg43953 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3506.msg43953#msg43953)
It's in the thread title but my thanks to the builders
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Excellent as always! That new WarShip could be worrying though for the Society.
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I thought the Obsidian Mantis was a masterarminas creation?
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Landing Zone, Zack Rayz (Leopard-class DropShip)
Prato, District of Bowang
Free Worlds League
9th October 3112
The modified Leopard-class DropShip Zack Rayz came to a stop on the world of Preto near the single-story building that was laughingly called a Spaceport Control building on the Periphery world of the Free Worlds League. Prato was benefiting from increased public spending with the increased profitability of the District of Bowang but its spaceport was yet to improve. From the DropShip five BattleMechs and a group of five Battle Armour troopers stepped from its cargo bay each of them wore the insignias of Clan Smoke Jaguar, of the District of Lesnovo and the Free Worlds League.
This was a goodwill tour of the District for the Smoke Jaguars organised by Lesnovo to improve the reborn Clan’s image and show that the District intended to support each of its worlds fully and that the Jaguars were part of this support. Piloting one of the BattleMechs a League produced Carronade type was Khan of the Smoke Jaguars Petra Furey the Mech was one of the most advanced that Lesnovo had and had been a gift to the Smoke Jaguars from Bowang as a symbol of unity and she had decided to embrace the gift. As was the plan the Jaguars paraded through the world’s major settlements and Petra Furey spoke at several gatherings before leaving the world.
Over the coming months Petra Furey would travel to a dozen separate systems improving the support for the Jaguars and for the District of Bowang. Petra Furey’s charisma does more than improve the Jaguars image it also draws many new recruits to the Clan’s ranks with many willing to give up the little they have on the periphery’s edge of the Free Worlds League for a dream of glory with the Clan. Many traditionalists within the Jaguars do not like Furey’s plans for their reborn Clan.
Strategy meeting Taurian Concordat/SLDF command
New Vandenburg, New Vandenberg
Taurian Concordat
13th October 3112
Colonel Jason Nowak the Star League Defence Force liaison to the Taurian Concordat was beyond angry as he stared at the Taurian officials on New Vandenburg. Because the SLDF had “no right†to set foot on Taurus command of the defence of the Taurian Concordat had been moved to New Vandenburg which was an inconvenience but not the end of the world. Nowak was not angry because of that he was angry because of the Taurians inability to manage a coordinated defence against Clan Nova Cat.
“Can we please agree that nuclear weapons are not the key to winning this conflict?†He asked looking at the Taurian Marshals. “These weapons are not stopping the Nova Cats…â€
“But they level the playing field†Marshal Sylvester Blake said his anger equalling the SLDF officers.
“It is not a play field, people are dying!†Nowak snapped
“The Nova Cats bring WarShips to the field they level entire regiments from orbit we have no such weapons we need weapons that we can match the Clans with.â€
“There is an entire Star League Defence Force WarShip squadron in the Taurian Concordat.â€
“This is not enough, the Taurian people have to be able to fight back themselves.†Marshal Irina Volk said supporting her fellow marshal “we have destroyed another WarShip in the defence of Mirfak we are holding them back.â€
“The Nova Cats keep coming†Nowak said “Star League Intelligence suggests that the Nova Cats almost forty WarShips with a minimum of two shipyards producing more WarShips.â€
“We can produce nuclear weapons faster than they can build ships and train crews. Weapons are easy Colonel Nowak manning multi-thousand-ton WarShips and keeping morale up is far harder.â€
“And in the meantime, innocent people and those who are trying to help you pay the price.†Nowak said angrily “hundreds of men and women who serve the SLDF have been treated for radiation poisoning due to the events on Belle Isle. And the Nova Cats keep coming†he said repeating his last words “we need to bring them to the negotiation table, provide them with a united front.†He said as another Taurian officer entered the room from behind the Marshals and handed a data pad to Marshal Volk who read the information and turned back to the group.
“The Nova Cats returned to Mirfak with additional naval vessels and ground forces. Our defences were no match, we have lost control of the system.â€
“And the Germanium Mine?†Marshal Blake enquired
“Our failsafe was disabled by damage the Nova Cats have successfully secured the facilities.â€
“Colonel, your WarShip squadron is required to assist us in retaking Mirfak.â€
“Not until you agree to stop using nuclear weapons in fire support in ground force operations.â€
“You withhold your support?†Blake demanded
“Only to safeguard my people’s lives.â€
“Then you are no use to us.†Blake responded “lives do not matter the survival of the Taurian Concordat does and we will defend it anyway we can.â€
“The Protector would not agree…â€
“The Protector is on Taurus…†Volk said calmly “we are here.â€
“May I speak to the Protector?â€
“The Protector is young and does not need your interruptions in his life†Volk said showing that the Marshals intended to run the conflict as they desired.
Clan Trials of Possession
Clan Occupation Zone
21st October 3112
In a series of Trials of Possession Clan Coyote wins the worlds of Gunzburg, Skandia and Dalkeith from the Rasalhague Dominion. The trials are fought in accordance with Clan duelling rules. In the coming weeks the Coyotes expand their operations to the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone capturing the systems of Orkney, Crimond, Zoetermeer and Vantaa showing that the Coyotes have lost none of their martial prowess while they have rebuilt their Touman.
Elsewhere the Sea Foxes abandon Steelton and Toland to the periphery instead moving their defences deeper into their Occupation Zone where they could be more use. With the freed-up troops, the Sea Foxes launch Trials of Possession for Parakoila, Babaeski, Great X and Yeguas in the Jade Falcon and Hell’s Horses Occupation Zones gaining control over all four systems as both the Jade Falcons and Hell’s Horses seek to use troops on their Inner Sphere borders.
FSS Eagle Eye (Hound-class Corvette)
High Orbit, Abbeville
Draconis March, Federated Suns
29th October 3112
The FSS Eagle Eye moved into a stationary position above the world of Abbeville and two Arondight-class DropShips launched from its DropShip Collars moving to take positions alongside it forming a blockade near the world. On the command deck of the Eagle Eye the crew looked at the brown world below it wasn’t the nicest world of the Draconis March but the people had made a life for themselves there and now they’d likely die there. “You think there is any chance of them finding a cure?â€
“The NBC experts and medical teams think that one fifth of the population have been affected so far.†Another crewmen replied “word is SLDF NBC experts are being called in to assist as well they’ll do all they can for them.â€
“In the meantime, we do our duty†Captain Bruno Vander Zee replied from the command chair “if any ship tries to break the quarantine, we force them back down.†He said looking around the command deck “we need to make sure that this does not go further than Abbeville the medical teams can work on saving the people below us.†He said the Eagle Eye’s job was to protect the Federated Suns even if it meant protecting it from its own people.
The quarantine of Abbeville would last until mid-3113 when the world would officially be declared dead by the AFFS as the virus that had been released on the world mutated several times and eluded AFFS/SLDF efforts to contain it.
Private Party, Oh! MaHeed
Jierus City, Bowang
District of Bowang, Free Worlds League
30th October 3112
In the premier club of Jierus City Oh! MaHeed the top floor was closed off for a private function with only the wealthiest and most beautiful allowed in on tables the most beautiful dancers performed for the crowd’s entertainment. In the centre of the crowd the Bounty Hunter, the five MechWariors of his team, the DropShip and support team all enjoyed the night. Among them Dominic Nostra sat watching as the party went by around him Christopher Grant slipped into the leather chair beside him, he wore blue stripped shirt and comfortable trousers and shoes. “What do you think?â€
“It’s strange being in the open despite the wanted sign over my head.†Nostra admitted
“We all have one†Grant said “because of our actions before joining this team and after we are wanted across the Inner Sphere†he said back loudly over the music “the people here don’t care, they are the people who will hire us in the future and the people who are afraid of us.â€
“So, we just enjoy ourselves?â€
“Until we are called upon to do more workâ€
“And we pretend that the outside world doesn’t exist?â€
“Oh, it clearly exists†Grant replied “but tonight we can enjoy the spoils of this work†he said handing Nostra a drink and gesturing to the wider bar at a particularly beautiful dancer who was close. “Anything you want in this room tonight is yours. Tomorrow we’ll decide what we want to do.â€
“I still haven’t decided that my future is here.†He replied as Christopher Grant was already moving away the world of Bowang had become a world of trade and of mercenaries and was big enough for anyone to disappear.
“You will, see you in the morning†Grant shouted as he disappeared into the crowd and a pair of beautiful women joined Nostra on the leather sofa.
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Next bit - still haven't abandoned this - sorry it's been a while since I updated
Territorial Gains
District of Dieron
10th November 3112
As the Lyran Commonwealth announces its intent to forge peaceful relations with the District of Dieron and improve trade with the breakaway Draconis Combine district Clan Sea Fox makes its intent known to Dieron that they are taking possession of the Deneb Algedi and the Nashira systems from the District as part of the trade deal the two powers had agreed to.
Clan Sea Fox also quietly take control over the Inglesmond system which had mostly been abandoned since the First Succession War. The Sea Foxes rapidly discover that the world’s population have been reduced to a hunter gatherer lifestyle and are uninterested in the Clansmen who land on the planet. The Foxes quickly bring in terraforming equipment intent on reversing some of the damage that had been done to the world making it useful for their own needs.
They keep from the District of Dieron that they have taken Inglesmond believing that since the District hadn’t paid much attention to the “Dead World†that they wouldn’t care for the Sea Fox presence there. This territorial gain by the Foxes gives them a significant presence on the border of the Star League Protectorate and near Dieron.
Territorial Gains
Taurian Concordat, Periphery
19th November 3112
Clan Nova Cat invade the systems of Gant and Celano finding them virtually undefended and the industry on the world sabotaged so it could not operate. Expeditions from the Nova Cats find that the worlds of Acidalla, Talltsa, Cadiz and Micros III have also been abandoned by the Taurians with any major industry removed from the worlds. As the worlds have no strategic or resource value for the Nova Cats, they bypass the worlds leaving them to their own devices. Because of the proximity to Clan Nova Cats space neither the Fronc Reaches nor the Gaenir Collective are ready to welcome the new worlds for fear of antagonising the Clan.
Caerphilly (Monolith-class JumpShip)
Zenith Point, Terra system
Star League Protectorate
21st November 3112
On the JumpShip Caerphilly Commanding-General Victor Focht looked at the screen in front of him at the image of Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion. “You’re sure this will work?†Focht asked the Exarch with a smirk.
“So far they’ve worked out†the Exarch said “between here and Denbar in a blink of an eye in every test all successful.â€
“New Vandenberg is a fair distance further away, sire†he said showing respect to the older man. “And in each test the JumpShip was destroyed.â€
“Only the K-F Drive the main drive thrust survives and the carried ships were still operational.†Victor Steiner-Davion reminded him.
“I remember reading the report.†Focht replied “you think one ship will make a difference.â€
“The cargo could†the Exarch said “the Taurians backs are against the wall this will hopefully bolster their numbers until we can bring more units into the fold.â€
“I’ll do what I can.â€
“Good luck, Victorâ€
“Thank you, sir†Focht said saluting which the Exarch returned before cutting the link.
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Soon after the communication link between Focht and the Exarch had been cut the Monolith reeled its jump sail in and launched itself across the Inner Sphere. In a flash of light, the JumpShip disappeared from the Terran system and after several minutes the ship arrived in the New Vandenberg system. “That was horrible†Focht commented feeling like the deck was spinning under him.
“We are in the New Vandenberg system†the ship’s navigator said to the Captain “jump-drive destroyed as expected.†She said the Captain turned towards.
“Commanding-General, you’ve destroyed my ship but you’re here.†He said “we’ll get the DropShips offloaded as soon as possible.â€
“Clear out all of our equipment including the crew’s personal belongings onto the DropShips.†Victor ordered glancing around “if the Taurians want this wreck its their choice, we’ll get your crew another ship.†He said what followed was an orderly evacuation of the JumpShip onto its attached DropShips. Once evacuated the DropShips headed in system towards New Vandenberg and Victor Fochts negotiations with the Taurian Concordat leadership.
Clan Raid
Nueva Castile, Periphery
27th November 3112
As the fighting continues in the Clan Homeworlds between the Clans of Clan Blood Spirit and Clan Goliath Scorpion and the Society Clan Goliath Scorpion attempts to show its capabilities by attacking the remains of the Nueva Castile. Among the Goliath Scorpion forces is the first Sun Cobra OmniMech to come off their new production line on the world of Haven. Piloting the OmniMech is Star Colonel Susan Elam a ristar within the rebuilding Clan.
Landing on the world Asturais they engage local forces only to be interrupted mid-fight by an approaching Summoner OmniMech which was accompanied by a group of Elementals and two military vehicles all wearing the insignia of Clan Goliath Scorpion’s Crimson Seeker Star. “I am Star Colonel Susan Elam of Clan Goliath Scorpion, you will identify yourself†Susan Elam demanded turning towards the incoming military forces.
“I am Star Captain Fiona Hernandez commander of the Crimson Seeker Star of Clan Goliath Scorpion.†She said as the local forces retreated Elam noticed that they were accompanied by further conventional infantry and more vehicles. “We wish to return to our Clan.â€
“You will have to prove you are who you say you are…â€
“Our Codexes are complete†Hernandez claimed “as are those who have joined us over the course of our time here, we are ready for your challenges.â€
Border fighting
Las Halles, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
30th November 3112
With their extended time on Las Halles the First Kathil Uhlans had made links to the Eagle’s Talons and Sixth Oriente Militia who were also based on the world guarding against trouble they may cause. This leads all three units to unit and combine tactics against Capellan Confederation aggression when it comes to the system all three take damage in the fighting but it is the Capellans who retreat. Marshal Richard Steiner is able to keep his unit separate from the two Free Worlds League units through the respect that his unit have earned in combat.
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Nice update! So the SLDF is using a super jump drive! Nice to see Clan Goliath Scorpion still around!
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Nice update! So the SLDF is using a super jump drive! Nice to see Clan Goliath Scorpion still around!
Things you find when you occupy Terra I reasoned that the same people who served the WoB would now most likely be recruited by the SLDF leading to similar discoveries
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Clan Wolf Territory
Castor, Wolf Empire
1st December 3112
Marching through the rainstorm on Castor Star Commander Kate Conners piloted her brand new Grimnir OmniMech towards the Star League Defence Forces that were trying to capture the Wolf system. In orbit above the world the WarShip Eastern Wolf, a Lola IV-class Destroyer, intertwined with the SLDF’s SLS Defender, a Patriot-class Heavy Cruiser, the two vessels were slowly losing height falling into the atmosphere. The battle for supremacy in orbit had been a draw with both sides losing a valuable vessel but now Kate Conners and her star mates planned on helping her Clan keep control over the world.
Moving the sixty-five ton OmniMech over the soaked ground she couldn’t see a thing through her video monitors and instead she tracked her enemy through sensors only. She fired her OmniMech’s arm mounted gauss rifle at a target and then followed up with a pair of laser blasts cutting into an enemy Nyx BattleMech.
“Infantry all over me!†The panicked call from MechWarrior Kayleigh called out as her Adder stepped forwards the light OmniMech was covered in infantry soldiers.
“Stavag!†Kate Conners cursed twisting her OmniMech’s torso towards the Adder “all units watch corners and eliminate infantry as we progress forwards!†She snapped lining up on the lighter Adder before opening fire with her OmniMech’s paired torso mounted machine-guns. The weapons spat out twin streams of high explosive rounds into the infantry killing several of them knocking their bodies to the ground while only lightly damaging the Adder “twist your torso to your right… now!†Kate said Kayleigh kept calm enough under the machine gun fire and the infantry attack to listen to her words twisting towards the Grimnir as Kate kept up her machine gun fire cutting the SLDF troopers off the OmniMech. “You Mech is damaged MechWarrior Kayleigh, retreat from battle†Kate commanded as a particle cannon struck her Grimnir’s left side she twisted the OmniMech to face the new threat engaging with her gauss rifle again as another particle cannon shot flew over her head.
“I can still fight†Kayleigh said stepping forward into a flight of long-range missiles which peppered her OmniMech’s armour.
“Negative, this is not a circle of equals they will not stop when your Adder is stripped of its weapons and armour. Our battle is to hold this territory†Kate said firing her Mech’s lasers again as the rainstorm beat down on her OmniMech. “That means all our Mechs continue to fight until our enemy is vanquished, no you retreat and come back to fight another day.†She ordered as her Mech was his by a group of tightly packed long-range missiles she twisted the Grimnir and opened fire with her gauss rifle again as Kayleigh began to retreat. To her right one of her other star mates opened fire with machine guns, pulse lasers and missiles virtually levelling a building beside them. “Push forwards†Kate commanded.
Over the period of two weeks the Wolves and SLDF battled for control over Castor in all two full Clusters of Wolves died on the world while the Third Royal Strike Regimental Brigade was left a shell of its former self forcing it off the world. During the fighting the wreckage of the two WarShips lost their orbit crashing down over the small town of Overland Park which housed two hundred-and-fifty thousand people. The initial impact ripped through the central street of the town with secondary explosions ripping through the city for the next week as debris from the two ships rained down on the city essentially wiping it from the face of the planet and making any survivors homeless leaving the occupying Wolves with a humanitarian problem. Withdrawing to Pollux the remains of the Third was folded into the Third Sirius Regimental Brigade as the SLDF attempted to create a wall that the Wolves would have to battle thought to reach Terra.
SLDF/Taurian Raid
Belle Isle, Expansion Zone
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
13th December 3112
In an effort to disrupt Nova Cat supplies and show solidarity between the SLDF and Taurian Concordat Commanding-General Victor Focht leads a combined Taurian Concordat/SLDF assault force to Belle Isle, one of the systems now occupied by Clan Nova Cat. Piloting one of the Prefect BattleMechs that the SLDF had gifted the Taurian Concordat Focht leads his strike force to victory against the Nova Cats destroying several supply bases that the Clan had set up on the planet before evacuating returning to the Taurian Concordat.
National Wedding
San Martin, District of Dieron
27th December 3112
In accordance to Shinto traditions Warlord Akira Tormark and Empress Emi Kurita marry on the world of Dieron. This union which is brought on by love and by mutual support their marrage links the breakaway districts military and political power further binding the people of Dieron together and further setting Emi Kurita up as a successor to the Kurita family’s legacy.
Trials of Position
Fasa, Near Pentagon Worlds
Clan Space, Deep Periphery
31st December 3112
Returning to the Clan Homeworlds Clan Goliath Scorpion take the surviving members of the Crimson Seeker Star and their supporters and take them to Fasa for screening and their initial Trials of Position to find their new places within the Clan. Star Captain Fiona Hernandez sat in the cockpit of her Summoner which had been configured into its Alternate C configuration which gave her an Extended-range large laser, an ultra-class autocannon, a streak equipped short range missile launcher and a small laser. The OmniMech was more of a brawler than the previous configuration she was used to but one that would serve her well when it came to the Trial of Position. Opposite her stood five BattleMechs one light, two medium, one heavy and one assault her opponents in this Trial of Position “I am Fiona Hernandez, I stand for Clan Goliath Scorpion, I serve now and I want to in the future for all my remaining days. I will fight anyone who stands against me.â€
“You have been called to this trial to prove your worth Fiona Hernandez, I Loremaster Charlotte Djessarri will witness this Trial for Clan Goliath Scorpion and for you warrior.â€
“Understood†Fiona Hernandez responded firing her large laser at the Ice Storm cutting across the Mech’s chest before the Mech could even take a step. “No quarter asked no quarter taken†she said taking several steps forward she fired again as the Ice Storm began to accelerate this time the hit penetrated the armour knocking the BattleMech on its back she targeted again and rapidly fired taking out the BattleMech. “One down†she said triumphantly now accelerating her OmniMech forwards as her next target a Clint IIC which had already opened fire on her with its autocannon and medium lasers the lasers burning over the Summoner’s left side while the autocannon sandblasted across the chassis knocking armour off multiple locations. “Wrong choice†she said running right at the medium BattleMech opening fire with her laser again as she closed in one hit, she did as much damage as both medium lasers burning a hole in the Clint’s right shoulder. The forty-ton BattleMech returned fire again with both lasers, one of which missed, and the autocannon which this time used solid shell ammunition which took a chunk out of the Summoner’s left leg. “At least you can learn†she whispered “just not fast enough†she said stamping down on the Summoners pedals sending the OmniMech into the air on twin streams of fire as it accelerated upwards her Mech’s Streak-equipped short range missile launched achieved a lock and fired the missiles launched straight upwards for a couple of seconds clearing the Summoner’s launcher before cutting their thrust above the Summoner immediately the missiles flipped end over end before they charged down on the Clint peppering its shoulders and head sections. Fiona could imagine the pilot being thrown around the cockpit by the attack thrown off guard which allowed her to complete her jump and land behind the BattleMech turning she fired her large laser and the ultra autocannon straight into the back of the Clint IIC the laser missed its mark but she’d fired it for insurance the autocannon was the real source of the attack the shells ripped through the back of the Mech crushing its gyro and forcing the fusion engine into shut down. Fiona Hernandez screamed with delight as she watched the Clint IIC fall “That is two!†She shouted triumphantly.
From the right of her Mech the third Trial Mech a Grendel OmniMech opened fire on her with its heavy laser and short-range missiles robbing the Summoner of armour down its right arm and torso section. “I am not done!†Fiona cursed she had come into this battle as a Star Captain she wasn’t about to leave that there instead she twisted the Mech’s torso away from Grendel taking several steps turning away from the Grendel she then turned the torso back at the lighter Mech and fired the laser and autocannon again this time the laser struck but the autocannon missed. She then jumped her OmniMech up again as the streak short range missile launcher fired again peppering the Grendel with more fire as it attacked her again with its large laser this time stripping what remained of the armour from her left leg. “Nice shot†she said as the Summoner landed again twisting towards the Grendel she triggered the autocannon again the assault class weapon tore through the lighter Mech severing its right arm and the heavy large laser. Fiona immediately launched another attack on the Grendel using her large laser and missiles which peppered the Grendel and knocked it to the ground the Grendel pilot immediately began the shutdown sequence for the Mech ending its fight.
Again, there was no pause between fighting as the last OmniMech a Mad Dog opened fire on her covering the OmniMech with long range missiles which blew holes in several places across the Summoner damaging the OmniMech’s small laser which was hardly a loss. Fiona twisted the torso section of the Mech and targeted the Mad Dog emptying the ammunition bin for the ultra autocannon ripping one of the Mad Dog’s arms off. The pilot immediately returned fire with one of its pulse lasers and multiple medium pulse lasers burning more holes in the Summoner including one that went straight through the left leg of the Summoner destroying the knee joint. Fiona fought to control the Mech launching the heavy Mech into the air firing the Mech’s laser as he went. As the Summoner flew towards the Mad Dog another wave of missiles flew up towards the flying Mech with about half of them connecting with the seventy-ton OmniMech destroying yet more of its armour but Fiona held the Mech firm targeting the Mad Dog she brought the Summoner down nearly point-blank distance to the lighter Mech. Fiona fought the temptation to punch the Mad Dog instead she triggered the short-range missile launcher and fired the large laser at point blank range smashing more of the Mad Dog’s armour knocking the Mech back. Its pilot hit out again with pulse lasers that couldn’t miss at this distance destroying three of the Summoner’s jump jets but Fiona didn’t need them anymore and fired her missiles and laser again as soon as they had cycled and like the Mad Dog, they couldn’t miss their target. The large laser struck the head of the Mad Dog as did several short-range missiles which penetrated the armour and blew the head off the OmniMech killing its pilot. “Your sacrifice will not be forgotten†Fiona said looking at the destroyed Mad Dog as it fell to the ground pilot death was not the aim of a Trial of Position but they did happen. “I will honour you with my service.â€
“Congratulations Star Colonel Fiona Hernandez†Loremaster Charlotte Djessarri said ending the trial by confirming her new rank “and I can confirm you as the commander of the reformed First Crimson Seeker Cluster.†In the coming days every member of the Crimson Seeker Star attained a rank within the Goliath Scorpion Clan as did many civilians of the Nueva Castile.
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3113
Trade Relations
Acamar PDZ, Capellan March
Federated Suns
8th January 3113
Following a concentrated effort by SLDF neigotiators to gain control over their systems the leaders of Nanking, Acamar, Rachbau, Aboris and Genoa all inform Star League Protectorate executives that they are no longer welcome in their systems giving them a short period of time to evacuate their embassys and leave. The Star League Protectorate representative to the Federated Suns on New Avalon Ambassador Sir Daniel Carter makes an official complaint to the Federated Suns over the treatment given to their personnel.
Intent on stopping further worlds defecting to the Star League the AFFS launch several Raids-in-Force against half a dozen Capellan Confederation systems keeping them from massing forces on the Federated Suns borders. The Capellans continue their covert operations against their neighbours well aware that they cannot match the Federated Suns or Free Worlds League on firepower and personnel only.
Trials of Possession
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
13th January 3113
The Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces launch assaults on Sargasso and Blumenort attacking the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone with two Commonwealth Guard RCTs supported by mercenary forces. On Blumenort the Fifth Commonwealth Guard RCT supported by Van Halen’s Heavy Cavalry overwhelm and destroy the Fourth Falcon Lancers Cluster. While the Tenth Commonwealth Guards RCT supported by Millie’s Marauders and the First Pathfinder’s Battalion destroy the Twenty-second Provisional Garrison Cluster.
In the days that follow these assaults the Sea Fox Clan invade Kikuyu, Blue Hole, Chahar, Machiba and Zongshan capturing them all from the Jade Falcons in standard Trails of Possession. The Jade Falcons happily minimise losses on both sides accepting their losses without complaint with JumpShips arriving within days of the Sea Fox assaults and moving their troops further into the Inner Sphere.
Purges
Regulus, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
20th January 3113
Following years of concentrated searching for those aware that he executed the Duke of McKenna, his wife’s father, during the invasion of McKenna in 3093 Prince Lester Cameron-Jones finally tracks down the last person who currently serves as a Corporal in the Regulan military. Lester quietly makes the Corporal disappear unfortunately what the Prince does not know is that his wife Saadia is aware of Lester’s actions and has remained silent for the last three years.
Departure Operations,
Las Halle’s, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
31st January 3113
Standing in the command room of the Conquistador-class DropShip Halland Marshal Richard Steiner looked over the reports of his First Kathil Uhlans packing up operations and saw that things were going to plan. Finally, after months of negotiations the SLDF gotten the Free Worlds League to agree to let his people get off the Capellan Confederation border. Unfortunately, they wouldn’t be going home to the Federated Suns as the Capellan Confederation had refused to allow them to travel through their space and Regulus was being difficult about letting them travel to Star League space. Instead the Uhlans would first be taken to New Olympica, the Star League holding deep inside the Free Worlds League before finally being able to head back to the Federated Suns. His unit had taken on some of the locals who had appreciated their efforts in defending Las Halles though these people were not from the Federated Suns and held no loyalty to House Davion they respected the history of the Uhlans with the SLDF against the Smoke Jaguars and their efforts to protect their world.
Two security officers entered followed by Prefect Freema Smit of Las Halles “Prefect, welcome onboard.†He said looking up from the planning desk during his time on Las Halles she had visited them several times but as a foreign dignitary she was still to be escorted. After getting over her initial reaction to his surname the two of them had become friends she was aware that his wife was in the Federated Suns along with his daughter and so nothing further had happened.
“Thank you Marshal†she said smiling “I will miss you when you leave.â€
“I appreciate that Prefect, our time here has been tough for my people but your population has made it far easier.â€
“And your willingness to trade openly with us has been appreciated to all my people.â€
“There were times when we thought we’d spend all our money here.†He joked the locals had offered them decent prices on most things but even with money drops into their accounts by the Federated Suns government things had not been easy. Richard Steiner had taken to handing over battlefield salvage taken from the Capellan Confederation raids to pay for supplies.
“We have tried to be fair to you alwaysâ€
“That you have†he said
“How go your efforts to leave?â€
“We are on schedule†he said formally due to battle losses they now had less equipment to leave than what they came with but still there was a lot of moving parts to get working together.
“Good†she said glancing over the table then back at Steiner, there wasn’t anything secret on the table but he was curious about what she wanted with this meeting. “Marshal, Baker and Zulu Companies of the Sixth Militia have requested permission to join you in heading towards Star League space. They are willing to join your unit as full-time members of the Uhlans and swear their loyalties to House Davion or if you are unwilling to take them to enrol in the Star League Defence Force.â€
“Interesting†Steiner said for a moment “we had three members of the Eagle’s Talons approach last night and request the same thing. I was about to contact their CO and find out what was going on.â€
“The reborn Free Worlds League is a democracy they were given a choice. Obviously, any Free Worlds League equipment they still have in their possession, we will retain.†She said to which Richard Steiner nodded with a smile agreeing to their terms.
“We accept them, once we are at New Olympica we will allow them to make their final choice.†He said
“Thank you Marshal, have a safe trip.†She said bowing to him slightly he returned the nod and she was escorted off his ship. A few hours later the Uhlans departed Las Halles under SLDF escort. Within days of the departure of the AFFS unit the Free Worlds League militia units also moved much of their forces off the planet massively decreasing the numbers of people on the planet.
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Nice to see another update DC, happy your still going strong!
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Nice to see another update DC, happy your still going strong!
I'm good thanks
I'll not be abandoning this there's way too much prep gone into it just had to restructure my writing times for life changes and been working on a non battle battletech story based on the remake of Battlestar Galactica
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Sounds cool bud, can't wait to see that either!
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After a wee break some new bits, it's not going away yet
Trials of Possession
Wolf Empire, Lyran Commonwealth border
11th February 3113
The Lyran Commonwealth take part in three Trials of Possession with Clan Wolf striking against Loric, Glauser and Uhuru. Striking against Loric and Glauser Lyran House units attack elements of the the Fourth Wolf Grenadiers Guards Cluster on Loric and elements of the Ninth Wolf Lancer Cluster on Glauser. In both cases the clansmen agree to the Trials fighting the Lyrans with honour.
The third trial takes place on Uhuru on behalf of the Isle of Skye and Lyran Commonwealth the Second McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry and the Black Widow Cluster assault Wolf forces there. Due to both unit’s position as mercenaries the First Wolf Regulars Cluster and Eleventh Mountain Wolf Guard Clusters refuse to fight a limited trial with the mercenaries forcing the two units to engage them fully. The Black Widow Cluster quickly overpowers the First Wolf Regulars Cluster while the Second McCarron’s fight a longer battle with the Eleventh Mountain Wolf as the former members of the Mountain Wolf Clan fight hammer and nail with the mercenaries causing heavy damage before the Black Widow Cluster swings in to finish off the Clan Wolf unit. Following the battle both units are able to recoup their losses by salvaging equipment from the fallen Wolves. Lt. Colonel Ariana Steiner begins work to on remodelling her unit into a Clan styled Cluster intent on advising the First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry’s commander Lt. Colonel William Hague about reorganising the entire command along those lines which she believes will allow the unit to act quicker and be more effective in combat.
Taurian Command Bunker
New Vandeburg
New Vandeburg, Taurian Concordat
18th February 3113
Surrounded by several guards Protector Erik Martens-Calderon marched into the Command Bunker on New Vandeburg much to the surprise of the Marshals who had been controlling him on Taurus. It had taken some effort including an intervention from an SLDF Fury Team that had been activated on the orders of Commanding-General Victor Focht. Erik had been angry that the SLDF had a covert team on his capital world but to his knowledge they had only acted in his defence eliminating members of the guard who were against him.
“Good afternoon gentlemen, how goes our defences against Clan Nova Cat?†He asked remaining professional despite their actions against him.
“We… we are holding firm.†Marshal Aaron Dalton said stuttering over his response.
“Good, have we opened up a dialog with the Nova Cats?â€
“They do not want to talk to us.†Marshal Lynn Brewster answered a moment later.
“Have we tried?†He asked the four Marshals looking to each of them none of them responded. He looked around “where is Commanding-General Focht?â€
“Visiting troops on Spitz†Marshal David Thewlis said looking at the troop movement map.
“Understood†Erik said looking over the maps Thewlis was looking at between the Nova Cats, the Fronc Reaches and the Gaenir Collective almost half of his nation had been taken over. “So why have we not attempted to contact the Nova Cats?â€
“They are Clan pirates.†Dalton said dismissively
“Not an answer†Erik said glancing between them “listen to me. I was released from the little prison you set up on Taurus by loyal Taurian daughters and sons and our allies, and yesâ€, he said looking at each of them “they are currently ensuring that everyone on this base is loyal to the Taurian Concordat and its Protector first.†He warned them Commanding-General Focht had put the special forces unit under his command but he intended on using Taurians to do his work as much as possible. “Now listen to me very, very carefully†he said meeting each of them with a steely gaze “you command my military, but they are my nations military none of you will ever take them away from me or from my nation now answer my question why have we not tried to make peace with the Nova Cats?â€
“We do not believe they will answer our communications.†Dalton replied as a young warrior ran in out of breath. “What is it soldier?†The Marshal asked but the soldier looked at the Protector first before answering.
“Give your report soldier, these officers will serve the Concordat loyally.†Erik said knowing fine their loyalty was at the end of a gun, he’d have to replace each of them but for now he needed their expertise.
“Sir, report from Spitz, Commanding-General Focht has been injured fighting Clan Nova Cat. The Clan raiders were repelled but the General’s condition is unknown.â€
“Understood†Erik said dismissing the man. He turned to the Marshals “another soldier not born of our earth has been injured in this war you refuse to give up on.†He said intending on shaming them “send a message to the Nova Cats it’s time to bring an end to this conflict.†He stated turning and leaving the room, behind him the marshals remained at the planning table while on the perimeter of the room several guards stood waiting.
In bound Ghost Bear DropShip Wanderer
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
25th February 3113
The last three weeks had been a whirlwind for Star Captain Morgan Ghost Bear, Christifori he’d have to get used to that again after years of forgetting it, at the beginning of January he’d won the rank of Star Captain in the the Touman of the Rasalhague Dominion and been recalled to Alshain. There he had expected to be given a new Trinary to command. Instead the Khan had announced that he had been named as Ambassador to the Star League Protectorate and he’d been “honoured†with the name “Christifori†for the duration of his duties which there would be no end to.
Morgan had questioned his Khan why he had been chosen for this duty and he’d been told that he was uniquely placed to represent the Ghost Bear Clan and the Rasalhague Dominion with the SLDF because he understood both sides of the coin. He’d embraced the Clan way of life while still remembering where he had come from and he had never given up on the chance of peace with the Inner Sphere for the Bears. Khan Michael Hawkins wanted him to remember that during his time back with the Star League Defence Force.
Now in orbit of his homeworld, Thorin, Morgan Christifori wondered where his path would take him. In the hold of the DropShip stood his Shirke OmniMech the future was uncertain he had no idea how the SLDF would accept him, nor how his remaining family would, but he would give it his all and the OmniMech would remain his whatever happened.
First Prince’s Questions, Throne Room
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th February 3113
This was perhaps the time as First Prince that Burton Davion hated. When he was on New Avalon, he had accepted that once a month he would meet as many nobles as he possibly could from across the realm and hear their issues. The vast majority of them barely had any relevance to him instead he referred them to the regional lords who should have dealt with them before they even came to him.
This particular visit however had the potential of starting a war and a war that he couldn’t afford. Earl Jonas Tyler, the noble lord of Sherwood, stood in front of him. He had made all the greetings that were expected of him but now what he proposed was dangerous. “Earl Tyler, understand that Clan Nova Cat captured Sherwood in an honour battle which the Federated Suns agreed to.â€
“And the only reason the system was lost is because I was not in the system. I have the resources to recapture the world and free its citizens. I only need Federated Suns navy support to escort my people to the surface.â€
“Naval forces that would turn a raid into a war.â€
“My people deserve their freedom.â€
“Your people can leave Sherwood whenever they wish.†Burton replied “and according to intelligence Sherwood has never seen so much productivity and improvements. The Clansmen have invested resources in that world that the Federated Suns couldn’t have considered due to its remote location.â€
“My family can take on that position, Sire, I beg of you I have the unit and the capabilities I just wish to prove my loyalty and the loyalty of the people of Sherwood.†He said he showed a passion that Burton wished he saw in other members of the nation’s nobility.
“I will not authorise a full assault against Sherwood nor will I be giving you naval support for your raid.†Tyler’s obvious disappointment showed as Burton stood up off his throne “instead I will provide you with a chance to show your honour and your unit’s capabilities.†Burton said walking over towards the noble. “Each year Federated Suns and Nova Cat units engage in honour trials which keeps the peace on our border. I will allow your unit to augment AFFS units which will engage the Nova Cats for possession of Sherwood later this year.†Burton suggested he could ensure that Sherwood became one of the worlds that were trialled for this year.
“Thank you sire†Tyler said bowing towards the First Prince “my Terror's will be ready.â€
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Officer Candidate School Graduation
Sandhurst Military Academy, England
Terra, Star League Protectoorate
2nd March 3113
In the torrential rain at the Sandhurst Military Academy the two hundred-and-six men and women of this years Star League Defence Force graduation class stood ready for their first assignment. Among the graduates stood Nicola Kincaid-Cameron and her brother Jeremy the son and daughter of Governor Bannister Cameron and Colonel Andrea Kincaid. The two twenty-three-year-old twins had already been given their first assignments with Nicola assigned to the recently formed Seventh Royal Regimental Brigade on Outreach while Jeremy was due to join one of the airwings assigned to the SLS Enterprise’s which was currently assigned to Milligan’s World on the Snow Raven border.
This class graduated along with other classes across the Star League Protectorate and on the other protected worlds as news spreads that the SLDF had landed on and secured the worlds of Wing and Wyatt from Clan Wolf forces. This fantastic news is diminished slightly as Clan Wolf’s forces land on Denebola and drive the First Knights of the Inner Sphere from the world bringing them another system closer to Terra. With the Wolves moving closer to Terra the Lyran Commonwealth are able to liberate Colfax and Cascade as the Clan pull's its hardened units forward leaving other worlds under defended.
Government building, Zletovo
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
15th March 3113
Standing in front of the of the other eight ruling council members of the District of Lesnovo Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones spoke. “Ladies and gentlemen, I disagree about the decision that has been made today by our people and this council. I have led this District honestly and will continue to serve loyally under the new administration.†He said glancing to the left-hand side “I worry about the decision that has been made today, we are empowering a people that once threatened destruction of everything that we care about.†He said appealing to their better demons unfortunately it wasn’t enough “without further from me I give you…†he said glancing again to his left “I give you Khan Petra Furey of the Twin Sons system, leader of the Smoke Jaguars and new leader of this District.â€
From off to his side Khan Petra Furey dressed in the ceremonial furs of Clan Smoke Jaguar which had been modified with the colours of the nations from the Twin Sons system. “Thank you†she said stepping up to the end of the table. “Ladies and Gentlemen, despite the fears of some members of this council the greater public of the people of Lesnovo saw wisdom in turning to the strong in this time of unease. I will rule justly but I do not foresee any great changes to people’s day to day lives, what is important is that everyone remembers we continue to live in the Free Worlds League, the rules that my people live by will not be adopted for all.†She said intending on putting the people in the room at ease this was not a take over she wished to show that they would work within the system. “To show that we are willing to work with the people of this district. Units of Smoke Jaguars will travel throughout the District sharing their insights and training, helping in shoring up defences and supporting local construction initiatives while we will be looking at using the Streaking Mist as a transport for constructing jump stations across the district.†She knew that particular concession was not popular among the crew of the Streaking Mist but they needed the good will and communication links it would create to repair the recently acquired Sceptre in a timely faction.
“We will also with the permission of those worlds we visit be opening recruitment drives to improve the armed forces of all worlds in the district.†She said explaining the first change she’d be making, the truth behind these initiatives would come out in time but that was all her people needed. On Twin Sons the Jaguars had already began replacing their ultra-light BattleMechs with fully armed and functional BattleMechs, many armed with Clan grade weapons after gaining access to the resources of the District and from links they had made with the Sea Fox Clan. The power gained from leading the District would just add to her Clan’s rebuilding, while the public image of assisting the worlds in their own projects and defence would improve external feelings about the Smoke Jaguars.
Weapons Testing
Proving Ground 47A, Australian Outback
Terra, Star League Protectorate
19th March 3113
The tent city in the Australian Outback had been Dr Lucy Davis home for the last six months as she and her team tried to get the Star League Defence Forces newest weapons, the TSEMP, to work. Three years of work on Kittery had led to this research after it was proven that field tests far from Terra were not enough. The weapon system was based on the original SLDF’s Centurion Weapon System and was intended on shutting down enemy Mechs before they could retaliate. The original Centurion system only worked on certain BattleMechs that carried a specific transponder the SLDF’s new plan was for a weapon system capable of shutting down any BattleMech.
There were eight BattleMechs assigned to the Proving Ground but so far after more than two years of testing Davis and her team were no closer to succeeding. Each time the weapons was fired at a Mech with the transponder it worked perfectly but against normal Mechs without the transponder it had little to no effect.
The tent flaps opened and through the door entered General David Hassid entered he was in his 40s and had been a career SLDF military officer. He was ten years Lucy Davis junior and while she found him attractive his military approach to everything, even research, annoyed her if it didn’t benefit, he wanted to get rid of it.
“How are you progressing Dr Davis?â€
“We can make BattleMechs with the transmitters shut down ninety-six percent of the time.†She said they hadn’t been able to perfect the Centurion system but it worked on most targets. “As a training weapon it could be invaluable for controlling our assets.†She explained thinking about the benefits.
“Until we end up in the same situation as the first Star League.†Hassid dismissed the idea having read history “and the TSEMP?â€
“It shows promise but is years from full production. We need to reduce its size, its drawbacks and it’s power consumption.†She admitted deciding to give him all of the facts hoping it would lead to further money and resources.
“After three years that is all the progress you have made?†He said barely containing his anger and frustration. The SLDF wanted a weapon that they could essentially disable an enemy force with instead of having to destroy them. Something they could use to take prisoners and capture enemy technology.
“It is a complex weapons system.†She protested unhappy
“That needs more laboratory work.†Hassid said “Doctor, your people have done well but it is time for a break. We’re closing you down. Your team are to report to the Beijing Research facility and begin work again in the lab. There you’ll brief a new team who will assist you in bringing the research forwards.†She knew what that meant she’d be teaching her replacements if she wasn’t careful.
“We are so close†she said wistfully.
“You have come far†Hassid said “now with the right resources and minds you can make this technology work for the Star League Defence Force. You’ll return here with a sounder weapon design and prove this technology will be useful to us.†He promised her giving her the hope she needed to take the research to the next level.
Camp Holt, Holt's Hilltopper’s HQ
Portland, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
31st March 3113
Standing arranged in the courtyard of Camp Holt stood the Combined-arms Mercenary Regiment known Holt’s Hilltoppers. Originally formed by former Free Worlds League warriors the unit now comprised from across the Inner Sphere and the Clans with a growing population of locals from the Fronc Reaches joining their ranks. The unit had long been classed as one of the Fronc Reaches primary mercenary commands and had been given priority treatment on several occasions after it had supported, and in many cases, won battles for the native “Marshal†forces.
Over the years the Hilltoppers had helped the Fronc Reaches create their own Battle Armour suit which was known as the TinStar which was being built here on Portland and at a small factory on the world of Independence. With TinStar production the Fronc Reaches could be completely independent of all other nations for Battle Armour suits its addition had made a massive impact already and the Hilltopper’s had benefited greatly.
“Standing before you I am the proudest man. From our humble beginnings to our greatest battles against the Ghost Bears, the Draconis Combine and Federated Suns this unit has stuck fast and preformed admirably. We have helped the Fronc Reaches find its feet and now we are beginning to see it and its worlds proper.†He said turning to the three people beside him Chief George Holt, leader of the Hilltoppers was dressed in the traditional garb of his homeworlds tribal factions which was similar to that of Native Americans from ancient Terra. He bowed deeply to them in turn President Carver Trondel, leader of the Fronc Reaches, Governor Katie Francis, the leader of this world, and Governor Andrew Stanton MacFarlane, the leader of the world Independence. “You have accepted us into your nation as guns for hire†he said drawing a traditional throwing ax known as a tomahawk it was made of wood and sharpened metal “we the Hilltoppers accept you as our home.†He said throwing the tomahawk into the air allowing it to fall to the ground embedding itself in the ground “mercenaries no more.†He announced from behind him the entire unit repeated his last two worlds “no more†again emphasising his point. The unit’s place was now here with the Fronc Reaches forever.
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Another longer than I'd have liked delay on the writing but here goes the next bit
Burn-in, SLDS Harman Dae-Jung
Long Baseline Facility 3, Lebouef
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
11th April 3113
The Castrum-class DropShip SLDS Harman Dae-Jung moved rapidly towards the frozen Kuiper Belt object known as Lebouef, or as Long Baseline Facility 3, which according to Star League-era records was a deep space observatory and intelligence gathering facility and according to records had been abandoned years before.
Deep inside the vessel Major Davina Patch rested in her Nighthawk Mk. XXX Power Armour waiting for the green light. This facility should have been unmanned after all this time but they’d soon find out. The DropShip moved over the frozen rock approaching the “abandoned†facility “Bridge to Major Patch.â€
“Go ahead, Captain Villecourt†She responded
“Major, we’re detecting power signatures from the facility below. Someone left the fusion reactors running or there’s people down there.†He said briefing her.
“Received Major, we’re ready†she said
“Very good, standby for drop†he said the ship moved over the base below with the cargo bay doors opening to allow them to drop. Immediately the battle suited marines dropped from the belly of the Castrum-class DropShip which hovered above LBF-3 the facility had no weapons but the DropShip’s guns were trained on the facility anyway.
From the belly of the DropShip Major Patch and forty-seven other troopers fell towards the facility below. As planned the battle armoured troopers dropped all across the facility burning through air locks entering the facility. “Patch to all teams, secure air locks behind you we don’t want to vent the atmosphere unless we have to.†She said as she entered the facility already marines had begun to use portable HarJel packs purchased from Clan Sea Fox to seal the breach behind them while another marine worked on the hatch in front of them this time hacking the internal airlock to allow them to enter.
Within minutes the doors opened and the Nighthawks were able to enter their weapons at the ready. Once inside the marines fanned out and Patch followed her Mauser Pulse Rifle raised inside there were several battle armoured marines pointing their weapons at members of crew dressed in ComStar uniforms each of them with their hands up. “I am Major Davina Patch, Star League Defence Force, identify yourselves.†Her Nighthawk’s speakers amplifying her voice so all could hear.
“I am Station Manager Margaret Thompson, welcome to ComStar Facility Lebouef, we were not expecting you.â€
“I assumed not†Patch responded “ComStar is long gone the organisation disbanded. The ComGuard and ROM remenants have been folded into the Star League Defence Force.†She said keeping her weapons on the ComStar personnel elsewhere the same was being played out. “I need you to ensure that all of your people show no resistance.†Patch ordered Thompson reached for her belt and was watched by the Star League Marines as she drew a small radio.
“This is Thompson, all staff the personnel boarding the station and from the DropShip above are from the Star League Defence Force do not resist.†She said nodding to Patch.
“Thank you, how much personnel do you have on board.â€
“We have twenty former ComStar personnel and six children under ten years.†Thompson replied “we have been out of contact with ComStar for some time.†She said as an explanation for the increased personnel, children wouldn’t normally be assigned to such a base. “We have room for hundreds in this facility and plenty hydroponic gardens.â€
“Understood, as of this moment this facility is under SLDF control, we will not harm anyone unless they intend on hurting us. In time if any of your personnel wish to communicate with those outside this base or to leave the SLDF will accommodate youâ€
“Thank you Major, I appreciate that, we will not resist your occupation.â€
“Major Patch to Harman Dae-Jung, objective is secured.†She said within a couple of hours the DropShip was able to dock at the facility and for SLDF teams to search the facility they did indeed find the facility was capable of supporting hundreds of personnel but that ComStar had not used the extended facilities for people instead they had converted much of the quarters over to hydroponics and storage which was what had allowed the small crew to live so long without support.
WarShip Foxhound (Drake-class Corvette)
Morghui, Deep Periphery
14th April 3113
After nearly a year of searching the Nova Cat WarShip Foxhound, a Drake-class Corvette, find the moon Morghui home of the pirates who attacked their people on Bandon. In orbit the Foxhound captures the pirate’s JumpShip and DropShip while the Sixty-eighth Nova Cat Roar Cluster dropped down to the planet and systematically hunted down the nearly battalion strength pirate force. On the surface they found hundreds of civilians who had been held essentially as slaves to the raiders. With Morghui able to only support a minimal population the Nova Cat’s choose to instead evacuate the population and bring them back to the Nova Cat’s Den.
Trial of Refusal, Taurian Concordat Camp
Gant, Expansion Zone
Nova Cat’s Den
17th April 3113
For the last week a truce had existed between Taurian, Star League and Nova Cat forces on the formerly Taurian Concordat world of Gant which was now occupied by Clan Nova Cat. Entering the command tent of the Taurian Concordat Protector Erik Martens-Calderon and his nineteen-year-old daughter Nicoletta Calderon moved towards the command table in the middle of the room. Standing at the table already were several SLDF and Taurian officers including Commanding-General Victor Focht who had his left arm in a sling and bandages covering much of his neck and torso following battle with the Nova Cats.
“Negotiations are at an end.†Erik said looking around the table “the Nova Cats have agreed to a Trial of Refusal to end the conflict that has raged between us. They have agreed to limit the scope of this Trial to be between a Battalion of our forces and a Nova Cat Cluster.†He said looking around the table “as you are injured Commanding-General Focht, I will command the Trial. I would welcome your forces support, but should you wish, you may withdraw Star League participation in the trial.â€
“I trust your command Protector, Colonel Michelle Tegan my aide will command any SLDF element involved in the trial under your command.†Focht said beside him a female officer in her 40s nodded her agreement to the Protector.
“Very good thank you, Colonel, I appreciate the support.†He said “together we’ll stand up to the Nova Cats and end this war once and for all.â€
---
Two days later Protector Erik Martens-Calderon lined up on the battle line suited up in his Bruce Battle Armour suit with members of his Taurian Concordat Military and members of the SLDF. The Taurian forces were painted in the colours of the Taurian Guard primarily brown with red secondary colours and tan highlights while the SLDF units were painted in the green and two-tone blues of the Star League. Against them were the forces of Clan Nova Cat’s Delta Galaxy led by Khan Canin Rosse himself. The Delta Galaxy Mechs, ProtoMechs, Battle Armour and vehicles were painted in a white blue and multiple shades of green pattern with white and blue making up the majority of the upper hull of Mechs and the greens covered the legs.
“I am Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cat Clan; I lead my Clan by example and will command them in this Trial of Refusal. I bring the Watch Cluster to this battle.†The leader of the Nova Cats said from his Dragon Cat OmniMech. The Khan’s Mech had strode across the battlefield for decades and was well known by all of the Nova Cat’s opponents. Sleek and agile the seventy-ton OmniMech was deadly to units of all sizes.
“I am Protector Erik Martens-Calderon leader of the Taurian Concordat. I will lead the Taurian Guards in this battle.â€
“Protector, I am glad to hear you are brave enough to face us†Rosse taunted the Taurian leader. “It is a shame Victor Focht is not here I would have liked to battle him again.†He said reminding Erik of the injuries the Nova Cats had caused to the Commanding General. “Protector, regardless of the result today the Nova Cats will accept your truce. You have met us in honourable combat, this is not something we will forget. My people will honour your actions even if I fall.â€
“I understand Khan Rosse, fight wellâ€
“Seyla†Rosse responded, there was a few moments of silence and then all hell broke loose as weapons fire began to be exchanged by both sides with a massive melee quickly developing.
The Protector’s Bruce Assault Armour weighed two thousand kilograms in total and was one of the slowest units in the Taurian forces. Initially Erik tried to track the Nova Cat Khan but he quickly lost sight of the faster moving Clan OmniMech. Moving forwards, he and his squad concentrated on assisting other units damage Nova Cat units with their support particle cannons together the four suits of his squad and the other eight members of their platoon could cause a massive amount of damage to an unsuspecting opponent.
As they moved forwards, they came across a Nova Cat SM1 Tank Destroyer opening fire on the rapidly moving hovercraft causing heavy damage to its right side damaging the propulsion skirt keeping its main autocannon off line from them. The hovercraft’s machine guns engaged them but they were nowhere near enough to stop the closing twelve Battle Armour Suits. Using their jump jets the Bruce suits quickly surrounded and bombarded the tank with fire destroying the tank and its crew. As they fought hover the Taurians had missed a point of five rapidly moving Nova Cat Trojan ProtoMechs. The scout unit of many Nova Cat forces the Trojan weight three times as much as any of the Bruce units but were designed for speed and agility and were only lightly armed with each carrying a single Anti-personnel Gauss Rifle.
Together all five of the Trojans could be deadly if they concentrated fire on individual units but that was where the Bruce had another advantage its mimetic armour would help foul the Nova Cats targeting. While the ProtoMechs were causing damage to the Bruce suits together the twelve Taurian Battle Armour troopers systematically brought down all five of the enemy units.
Erik smiled in his sealed Battle Armour suit they had successfully destroyed two units already and not taken a single casualty perhaps they had more of a chance than he had initially thought. He looked at the battle feed from his command vehicles and saw that the Nova Cats were causing heavy casualties to their forces but so far, their lines were holding. “Next target that pair of Shodens, we stop them bombarding our forces.†He commanded seeing another pair of wheeled missile tanks. The twelve Bruce suits leapt into the air approaching the vehicles which suddenly turned their attention on Erik’s unit switching their Advanced Tactical Missile launchers over to high explosive missiles several of the Bruce suits were hit and knocked out of the sky in the first missile volley. “This is Bull, we need support with a pair of missile tanks, fire for effect at my location!†Eric called out leaning into the ground for cover along with the rest of his troopers’ moments later Taurian artillery began landing in the area instead of standing up to fight the two Nova Cat tanks continued to fire as they moved away keeping the Battle Armour from taking advantage of the artillery support. “Cease fire!†Erik called out over the radio seeing the armour retreat into the smoke that was sweeping over the battlefield as he stood back up and began checking on his surviving men there was movement on his HUD display turning to face them his position was bombarded by short range missiles and for a moment he thought the Shodens had returned but then he saw his worst nightmare as an entire star of Nova Cat Elemental Battle Armoured troopers appeared charging out of the smoke.
With the Bruce suits outnumbered two-to-one and several of the troopers already injured Erik knew things looked grim but he wasn’t ready to give up on the battle. He and the other Taurian troopers fired their particle cannons and their suit’s inbuilt anti-personnel weapons as quickly as they would cycle intent on taking as many Elementals with them as they could but there were too many. Erik felt his suit be slammed from the side as a Nova Cat warrior fired a missile into his suit from less than ten metres away the blast knocked his suit through the air into a nearby collapsed wall as he rose he saw the burned Elemental continue to charge at him he raised his particle cannon and blasted the trooper in the face killing him but immediately another appeared. Not thinking Erik opened fire with his anti-personnel weapons intent on distracting the Elemental as he got his suit back onto its feet and the particle cannon cooled. The Elemental didn’t care about the antipersonnel weapons fire instead stepped forwards and sliced into the Bruce suit with its power claw Erik felt armour rip open but didn’t feel pain instead he swung back at the Elemental with his suit’s right arm heavy battle claw. Slamming down on the Elemental’s own claw the force of the impact amputated the Clan suit’s arm ripping the claw away from the suit. The Clansman staggered backwards then turned to face Erik and raised its other arm how the warrior was still fighting was beyond Erik he would have been unconscious or worse having sustained the injury the warrior must have taken by his attack but his momentary surprise was replaced with horror as he saw the Elemental’s arm mounted flamer spark to life. Refusing to face the weapon Erik launched his suit into the air on its jump jets but he wasn’t quick enough the fire burned through the holes in his armour and reached Erik’s skin. As the Bruce flew into the air Erik Martens-Calderon screamed as the flames reached the scraps of clothing, he wore inside the suit both his shorts and vest were flame resistant but the heat was still enough to burn through them and reach his chest burning into his skin. The Protector lost his concentration for a moment accidently cutting the jump jets as he felt the pain of the attack and the suit fell from the sky slamming into the ground in front of another pair of Elementals together they turned their flamers on him. Erik was already burning inside the suit and now knew this was how he came to an end. He closed his eyes and thought of his daughter and the shattered realm she was inheriting as the flames consumed him taking his life.
Taurian Launch Site
Gant, Expansion Zone
Nova Cat’s Den
22nd April 3113
Under a flag of truce and newly agreed peace deal Khan Canin Rosse flanked by Elemental warriors approached newly crowned Protector Nicoletta Calderon, the newest leader of the Taurian Concordat. After her father had fallen in battle the Taurians had fought for more than three hours against the Nova Cats causing heavy damage to the Clan forces including crippling the Nova Cat Khan’s Mech, although it had not enough to make him eject, it had been enough to show the Nova Cats that the Taurian Concordat and SLDF would stand up to them and make them pay for every inch of territory they took.
Stopping in front of Nicoletta Khan Rosse bowed slightly to her “Respect to the fallen.†He said
“Respect to the fallen†she repeated copying his gesture of bowing.
“Our forces will also respect the result of the battle and the words I exchanged with your father before the battle. Peace will last between us.â€
“Until the next time.†Nicoletta said causing the Khan to smile. “Khan Rosse, a question for you if I may?â€
“Aff†the old Khan replied slightly surprised by the question.
“Do you know what happened to your daughter Sonja Rosse?â€
“She was a partner to your father for some time but she passed away many years ago.†He said he knew she’d died in childbirth but had no idea what had happened to the child.
“It was birth of my father’s first legitimate child, his heir, my mother fought with every breath she had to ensure that I lived even if it cost her life†she said seeing the realisation cross Khan Canin Rosse’s face. “I carry her name with me, I am Nicoletta Sonja Rosse, Khan Rosse I am your paternal granddaughter, your daughter saved my father’s life and became the one thing he loved more than anything else including his realm. She changed his life forever, she brought greater joy to his life and brought life to me at the cost of her own understand while we share blood my loyalties are entirely to the Taurian people and my father’s legacy. I will defend the Taurian Concordat with the tenacity and dedication of both of my parents.†She said making him aware of exactly who she was.
“My daughter chose her own path.†Canin replied a moment later “as all Clan warriors do. I am glad that her legacy lives on.â€
“As am I†she said reaching into her jacket there was no movement from Rosse or from either of the two Elemental warriors but she was sure they were ready for anything. Instead of drawing a weapon and bringing her life to the end that would surely follow she drew out a piece of uniform with an old crest on it showing a Clan Nova Cat emblem with a bull standing in front of it staring at the big cat’s face. “Khan Rosse, this was my mothers it was made for her at my father’s insistence and she wore it on her BattleMech. I understand that there is a nova cat tradition of collecting items from conflicts and from important events?â€
“Vineers†Rosse confirmed
“Then I turn this Vineer over to you to bring an end to this conflict and to honour my mother’s life.†She said holding it out to Canin Rosse who took the piece of material.
“Until the next time†Rosse said soon after the Taurians abandoned the world heading back to their own space leaving the Nova Cats in control of the system and finally ending their conflict.
Captain-General Election
Parliament, Atreus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
28th April 3113
After four years Abraham Ledford was ready to stand down as the Captain-General of the Free Worlds League he had promoted improvements to peoples lives across the nation while trying to ensure more cooperation with their neighbours and less conflict. Now another leader would take his place but first there was a change to the seating arrangements that none of them had been entirely ready for. As part of the District of Lesnovo’s delegation sat their new leader Khan Petra Furey the leader of the district and leader of their military arm which was now confirmed to be made up of descendants of Clan Smoke Jaguar. Already Lester Cameron-Jones had called for the expulsion of Lesnovo as long as they accepted the Jaguars in military and political positions but that had been rejected by the majority of parliament and so they would have their place.
Now the leader of the District of Oriente and strong candidate for the position of Captain-General Duke Jonas Halas was speaking. “At present Las Halles economy is in a state of planetary recession following the withdrawal of military forces belonging to the Free Worlds League, the Star League Protectorate and the Federated Suns. The District of Oriente are supporting Las Halles but further support is required.â€
“Money will not solve the problems of that world.†Photon Brett-Marik said looking at the first-born son of the man the nation had once known as Thomas Marik and now knew to be an agent of ComStar placed under deep cover and a man that had served the Word of Blake.
“No, the world needs greater industry investment and immigration.â€
“A border world is too great a prize for great investment your enemies will see it as a target.†Khan Petra Furey said speaking up for the first time. “Already the Capellan Confederation has stuck this world recently, you will only stop the continuing this practice by striking them back and striking them back hard.â€
“We do not need to start a war to improve a world’s position†Abraham Ledford responded looking at the leader of the District of Lesnovo she spoke in direct opposition to what he had promoted while being leader of the Free Worlds League. “If the Capellans wish to attack the world make it a fortress create a training ground there for your people and build the industry around it to support it.†He suggested “even if they do decide not to attack you then at least you will have training facilities.â€
---
Debates were passed back and forth between them for days until finally a vote was taken against what was expected Jonas Halas was defeated in the final vote with Duke Robert Brett-Marik of the District of Gibraltar becoming the new Captain-General of the Free Worlds League. As his first act and building on an idea of the outgoing Captain-General the new leader of the Free Worlds League agreed to spend state funds and funds from his own District of Gibraltar to support the creation of a national training centre on Las Halles and the support economy for the increased population the world would experience as the location for this new base.
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Disused Land-Air-Mech factory
Zanzibar, Tamarind
Wolf Empire
8th May 3113
Escorted by the York-class WarShip Crusader the Seventh Ebon Watch Cluster had travelled from Tukayyid to Tamarind under orders from Loremaster of the Clans Iwabuchi Nagasawa to engage in a Trial of Possession for a disused Land-Air-Mech factory outside the city of Zanzibar.
The factory had laid disused since the Wolves had taken control over Tamarind with the Wolves taking little to no interest in the factory and certainly had no interest in LAM technology which had been avoided by the Clans since their inception. Now that the Watch Cluster were interested the Wolves could not completely avoid the attack instead the Wolfkin Keshik oppose the Ebon Watch unit. In a short Trial of Possession, the Ebon Cluster defeat the Wolfkin Keshik taking possession of the facility and the site it was built on.
New Avalon News Network
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th May 3113
His face was a face known all over New Avalon Michael Thomas was a news anchor that people could trust to bring them good news and news that could be trusted. He was known for his well-cut business suits and a deep voice which could be trusted which was why tonight he felt strange tonight the news he brought to New Avalon was both concerning and possibly not good. Sitting at the desk he looked into the tri-vid camera “Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the New Avalon News Network. Tonight’s lead story is concerning the Royal family more particularly Prince Luther Davion.†He said beside him a graphic showed the Prince’s most recent picture which showed the eighteen-year-old dressed in a business suit beside his mother and father who both wore their AFFS Uniforms. “In recent months there has been speculation that it would be announced that Prince Luther would be joining the NAIS or Albion training academies here on New Avalon.†Thomas said looking at the camera as the graphic beside him changed to show the two emblems of New Avalon’s premier military academies. “However today it was announced that Prince Luther Davion would be joining the prestigious Sandhurst Military Academy on Terra in the Star League Protectorate.†He said pausing for effect “Sandhurst is a Military Academy with great history but what this reporter and what the people of the Federated Suns will as is why the Heir to the Throne of New Avalon refuses to study at home.†He asked Thomas face was almost pained looking at the Tri-vid camera “more on this story will follow over the next few days as the Prince prepares to leave New Avalon.†He said over the next few days the same story was reported hundreds of times across the nation as people continued to question what was going on with Prince Luther and the decision he had made.
Capitol Building
Ferris, Ferris Collective
Periphery
24th May 3113
On the periphery world of Ferris the leader of the world Dame Danielle Bradbery stood in front of the Tri-Vid camera and announced the formation of the Ferris Collective with Ferris allying itself with Cadez, Manaringaine, Wyseria, Sutrah and Elissa. She announces that already the young nation which has been formed in the shadow of the Clan Occupation Zone has made peace with the New Oberon Confederation and the people of The Rock and will endeavour to avoid conflict with the nearby Rasalhague Dominion and Draconis Combine.
Government Building
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
27th May 3113
“Marker 13, this is Sword One, target entered building†the young woman in a white shirt and denim shorts said as she sat drinking coffee across from the government building on Lesnovo.
“Understood, remain on overwatch†came the response and the woman made another coffee order.
Inside the building Khan Petra Furey made her way up through the building to her office her two Elemental guards remaining in guard positions as she entered her office, if there were a threat inside, she could handle them herself, inside she found her greatest threat paperwork. Agreeing to become leader of the District of Lesnovo benefitted her people and allowed her to funnel resources to the Smoke Jaguars but the only way she would continue to serve in this capacity was if she did the job correctly. Moving over to the desk she sat down only to finally see the figure in the corner as it moved disturbing the mimetic suit, they were wearing which made them almost completely invisible. Furey reached for her sidearm but the person raised their hands showing they were unarmed making her stop.
“If you wished a meeting then you should have made it normally†Furey snapped
“Not our way, Khan Fureyâ€
“Not my way either, and you are?â€
“A friend or an enemy it depends how you see us†the figure said as they shed their mimetic suit Furey could see they wore a fully enclosed body suit which covered their body from head to toe. “We share heritage, Khan Furey, we just cannot decide if you are a friend or a foe.â€
“I share heritage with those on the Twin Sons on other†she replied when the figure put a Smoke Jaguar insignia onto the table. “Where did you get this?â€
“From those that came before meâ€
“And what does this mean to me?â€
“It means we are watching Khan Furey; we remember the past, we remember where we came from and we remember what we were. Do not become the Smoke Jaguars of the past.†He warned
“Who says we plan to be?â€
“The warning still stands†the figure said “if you do then your reckoning will be me and my people. But if you exceed our expectations be prepared to reap the rewards of our friendship.†He said turning towards the door heading out, as he left the two Elementals began to react to the figure’s presence but in a whirlwind of movement the figure knocked both of the guards down despite weighing half as much as one of them the figure looked back at the Khan then turned and moved quicker than Furey had expected.
Behind Khan Petra Furey watched as the figure ran across the upper level and out the other side jumping off a balcony on the other side of building Khan Furey chased across the level past her fallen guards looking for the figure but they were gone. The Khan stood on the balcony looking for any sign of the person who had threatened her, she did not know who they were but she knew that her Clan had yet another potential threat or a potential source of assistance.
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Interesting, going to give us a clue as too who they are DC?
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Interesting, going to give us a clue as too who they are DC?
Bannister Cameron had a similar visitor
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Forty-third Star League Games – Final Game
Star League Stadium, Solaris City
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
3rd June 3113
Already it had been a challenging week with various competitors competing and winning trophys in the Stadiums of Solaris but now it was time for the Final Game. In an effort to keep the Star League Games from stagnating the Forty-third Star League Games had introduced new “Enviromental†challenges in the Star League Stadium.
Around the stadium autocannon and missile turrets had been added to target anyone who entered the range of the cannons. Each competitor was allowed to target the turrets but they had to choose between targeting the cannons and targeting opponents.
As the battle progressed the remaining combatants had figured out how to avoid the turrets fire or had taken out the more troublesome turrets so they could fight without distraction, however, the organisers had one last surprise for the competitors. With less than a dozen cometitors left out of the twenty had had begun the final battle three Bishop Transport VTOLs flew low over the stadium so the crowd could see them. Each was outfitted with a Battle Armour carry pod which immediately began to fire smoke rounds down onto the battlefield following these were thirty Gorilla Battle Armoured suits from the game world of Niosel each armed with a pair of battle claws and a support machine gun. Dropping onto the battle field these troopers spread out firing at BattleMechs moving through towards exits they were not designed to remain on the battlefield for long the suits wouldn’t last against BattleMech class weapons for long and the troopers were not getting paid enough to stay in the firing line.
As they moved across the battlefield four jumped up onto one of the competitors swarming a Wasp IIC BattleMech within a minute they disabled the BattleMech forcing the pilot to eject before they jumped off and then headed towards one of the custom fitted Battle Armour exits which were placed around the stadium. All told the troopers had done minimal damage to the majority of the competitors and had only actually taken two of the BattleMechs done but their imclusion had added yet another hazard for the competitors to be wary of in the future.
After another thirty gruelling minutes Marcus November piloting a KGC-009-variant of the King Crab BattleMech was victorious claiming victory and the Star League Games Champions trophy along with a cash sum of 10 million C-Bills.
Throne Room, Palace of Dieron
San Martin, Dieron
District of Dieron
17th June 3113
Entering the Throne Room of the Palace of Dieron Coordinator Akira Kurita walked towards the Throne of Dieron with his sister Empress Emiko Kurita and her husband Warlord Akira Tormark. As he approached the two Emiko rose to stand beside Akira. Dressed in the uniform of a Warlord of the Draconis Combine Akira Kurita stopped short of the throne and bowed deeply to them both as tradition demanded both Emiko and Akira Tormark returned the bow. “Welcome to Dieron, Coordinator†Emiko greeted him in Japanese.
“Thank you, sister, you have done well.†He said glancing around the room “and you look good together†he said bowing slightly to Tormark who returned the bow once more but remained silent. “It is good to see that someone maintains our traditions and still believes in what the Draconis Combine should be.â€
“I am of course ready to turn over District command… to you, Coordinator.†She said hesitating slightly he was the elder sibling he had a right to lead more than she did even if she had built what they had on Dieron with Akira Tormark while her brother languished in confinement on New Samarkand.
“No, sister, this is yours†he said looking around the room again “I had my chance to lead and it did not go well. If Dieron is attacked I will help you defend it, I will happily represent Dieron in any form that is required, but I will do so are your pleasure Empress. This is yours be proud of it.†He said to her he was proud of what he had seen and experienced since arriving in the District the people were principled and disciplined he had been treated with respect but he had been struck by how highly people rated Emiko and Akira Tormark they people genuinely looked up to their leadership.
“If you are sure, Coordinator?†Emiko asked allowing him the chance to rethink, consider and change his mind but already Akira Kurita was turning to walk out of the throne room his decision was made. As he exited the room Emi looked at Tormark who had remained silent the entire time. “Not how I expected that to go†she said finally after a moments silence.
“He is a defeated man, losing the throne and the loss of his wife have finally taken their toll on him. Perhaps in time he will be the man the Combine remembers but for now it is up to us.â€
Pirate Jump Point, MS Loyalty (Thera-class Carrier)
Tamarind System, Wolf Empire
22nd June 3113
In the empty space beside Tamarind four flashes of light occurred and four massive WarShips appeared in the system each carrying the crests of the District of Marik and the Free Worlds League. Almost immediately aerospace fighters and DropShips began to launch from the WarShips however everything wasn’t going to go the Free Worlds League’s way as heavy naval particle cannons, naval lasers and naval missiles slammed into the WarShips from above as the Clan Wolf defenders of the system swung into action. Defending the system were the McKenna-class Battleship Werewolf and two Lola IV-class Destroyers the Grey Wolf and Red Wolf. The Lola IV-class vessels were smaller than the McKenna but they were built for the modern battlefield with layers of point defence weapons and small craft to protect them as the FWL aerospace fighters and DropShips rose from their carrier craft the Wolf fighters and DropShips dove to engage them.
As the craft fought the WarShips engaged with their own weapons the Grey Wolf and Red Wolf dived ahead of the McKenna behind screening the larger craft with their bulk and their defences. Naval lasers, particle cannons and autocannons tore out from the two craft ripping into the MS Phillip of Macedonia tearing the Eagle 2-class Frigate to pieces with parts flying in opposite directions. The remaining three FWL WarShips continued to fire tearing into the two Wolf destroyers fire flew from the port side of the Grey Wolf as its armour was pitted and penetrated. The even as the Free Worlds League aerospace fighters engaged each other and struck at either side’s capital ships and DropShips the WarShips continued to engage in combat. With their armour damaged the two Lola IV-class vessels began pivoting to avoid additional fire. As they did the Werewolf engaged with its own particle cannons tearing the second Eagle 2 in half with concentrated fire.
Now passing the MS Loyalty and the FWL’s fourth WarShip the MS Lyne, a Monolisk-class Destroyer, and its eight escorting DropShips. Travelling backwards the Grey Wolf and Red Wolf took severe damage to their engine section as the FWL units concentrated their fire on the reversing Destroyers. The Wolf vessels concentrated fire on the Monolisk-class Destroyer as the MS Loyalty turned behind it with two WarShips gone the FWL force intended on escaping from the system while the Werewolf continued to fire on the vessels damaging the Loyalty’s thick armour. The weapons fire from the two FWL WarShips breached the rear armour of the Grey Wolf and caused a series of explosions through the ship causing it to explode.
With losses on either side and continued fire being exchanged between the two sides WarShips continued to recover their aerospace fighters as the engagement came to a close with neither side being victorious. The Werewolf and Red Wolf continued long range fire at the two heavily damaged FWL vessels but the engagement was over the FWL’s attempt to recover the once important system was again unsuccessful.
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Trial of Poition, Ways of Seeing Park
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
7th July 3113
Out of an original class of forty candidates the last four members of Clan Nova Cat’s Mystic Caste graduate as MechWarriors in the Clan. The four candidates who have been trained since they were born for the role of saOathmaster in the Mystic Caste become the first people in Clan Nova Cat to assend to the role. Most of the Clan do not completely understand how the saOathmasters will fit into the Clan only that the four, Eugene, Ejiofor, Harper and Lana, will answer only to the Oathmaster and the Khan in their duties.
Raid in Force
Mendham, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
18th July 3113
Following rumours that Taurian Concordat and Capellan Confederation troops were massing on the world of Mendham the Federated Suns deploy a Rabid Fox team to Mendham. Things hadn’t gone entirely to plan; the Rabid Fox hadn’t found any sign of the suspected build up on the planet but they had been discovered by the planetary militia on extraction and were now running for their lives. After blowing through their first extraction point the eight Rabid Fox members had carried on moving through the day. “Hellion Four, under fire from Taurian militia.†One of the troopers radioed out from beyond their position Taurian infantry and vehicles were closing on the area.
“Sword Team Attila to Hellion, we are on our way down to you.†A voice replied as out of the darkness BattleMechs dropped to the ground beside them and began to lay down cover fire towards the Taurian troops. From the rear of a Thanatos BattleMech four newly developed Fusilier 2 Battle Armour troopers dropped to the ground while further along more of the same equipped troopers fell from another BattleMech. The Fusilier 2 was a lighter version of the Fusilier equipped with magnetic clamps for rapid deployment, a Magshot Gauss Rifle and an over the left shoulder machine gun for support fire. The Fusiliers moved forward and took the places of the Rabid Fox laying down cover fire. Behind the BattleMech line two Cavalry Cadence Rain VTOLs swooped out of the darkness firing their forward Magshot Gauss Rifles. Out of each VTOL stepped a pair of Sniper Power Armoured troopers who provided cover fire for the Rabid Fox to extract to the VTOLs and evacuate.
“You guys get all the toys†one of them said entering the long angular VTOL.
“Depends on the day, we’re extracting some VIPs, make yourself comfortable†the loadmaster said allowing the others to get inside. Behind them the Sniper equipped troopers also got onboard helping before the rear doors closed up within moments the two Cavalry aircraft lifted off the ground and began to make a swift exit. Before the night was out the elements of Sword Team Attila had completely withdrawn from the planet’s surface. Days later the Taurians launched an official complaint with the Federated Suns Embassy on New Vandenberg but these fall on deaf ears.
Border Raids
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
25th July 3113
Following the raid on Tamarind a month before Clan Wolf retaliate against the Free Worlds League raiding the worlds of Miaplacidus, Angel II, Bedeque and Marik. On Angel II and Bedeque the Wolves make it to the ground and bloody elements of the Eighth Marik Guards before pulling back. At Marik the Wolves are unable to penetrate the aerospace defences of the planet withdrawing before heavy damage is done to either side. On Miaplacidus the Elite Fifth Wolf Lancers Cluster assault and destroy the Seventh Marik Guards taking control over the planet. With these attacks the Wolves are in striking distance of Marik and Irian showing that not only the Free Worlds League can strike at critical systems.
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Flight Deck, SLS Immortal Spirit (Patriot-class Heavy Cruiser)
Nadir Point, St Loris
Kittery Prefecture, Star League Protectorate
2nd August 3113
In the low gravity of the SLS Immortal Spirit’s flight deck newly arrived Lt Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron headed towards the pilot briefing room. This was his first WarShip assignment and he was ready to make the most of it. Near the front of the room stood an officer wearing Captain insignia who turned to look at him Jeremy snapped to attention. “Lieutenant Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron reporting for duty, sir.â€
“Thank you, Lieutenant, I’m Captain William Burr welcome to the Spirit, you all settled in?†the older man asked turning to face him.
“Yes, sir, my personal items are stored away I’m ready for operations. I’m qualified on all classes of aerospace fighter…â€
“Small craft?â€
“Yes, sir, both aerodyne and spheroid models.â€
“Very good, suit up, you’re flying the school bus today routine stop and search mission.â€
“School bus?†Jeremy asked confused not recognising the designation he’d expected to be assigned to an aerospace fighter.
“Bay 16, we’ll be checking on a JumpShip that’s due in at 1600. Be ready for launch.â€
“Yes, sir, I’ll be ready.â€
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At 1530 Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron arrived at Bay sixteen to see the ship the crew called the School Bus which was also known as Clan built Pelican Small Craft Jeremy smiled seeing the craft. “Some school bus†he whispered he thought to himself. Coming up alongside him stood a short red headed woman wearing Lieutenant bars on her flight suit.
“It’s only an inspection run, but she’s mine†the young woman said “only one on the ship and a specialist for this type of Operation. You ready to get your hands ready?â€
“Yes, mam†he said eagerly
“Very good I’m Lt Hannah Palemoon, Callsign Duchess and no it’s not because I’m royal blood. I gave someone a ride once I’ll probably never live it down. You got a Callsign?â€
“They called me “Starboy†in the Academy, but nothing from a flight assignment.â€
“We’re not calling you that†Palemoon said “we’ll figure something out now get onboard and begin pre-flight the marines will be with us soon. They are lovely boys and girls even if they’re a bit rough.†She said as the marines in their full armour began to enter the Small Craft each wore a full set of Cavalier Battle Armour ready for anything as part of the mission.
At the front of the ship Jeremy sat in the co-pilots seat as the troopers behind got themselves ready the Pelican had plenty room for twice the number of troopers than today’s run but they quickly got themselves into their positions and were secure in the hold. “Checks complete ready for flightâ€
“Operations has cleared us and hold is secure†Palemoon said “ship’s yours, Lieutenant.†He said touching the controls but keeping his hands clear of the controls. Jeremy smiled in control and flicked a switch and the Pelican “fell†out of the bay into open space rotating slowly as it fell relative to the cockpit the SLS Immortal Spirit was “above†them. “We’re clear of mothership, engines primed and on standby.†She said as Jeremy continued the rotation rolling the ship one more time away from the Immortal Spirit before triggering the engine acceleration “someone’s got a bit of flare with my baby.â€
“Just getting a feel for it.†He said feeling the acceleration of the small craft. “We’ve been met by our escorts.†He said as two Dagger OmniFighters joined the craft taking up a position just above them and ahead. “Target craft is twenty minutes ahead of us and attempting to accelerate away.â€
“That’s a civilian DropShip, they can’t hope to out run us.â€
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Within twenty minutes the they had caught up with the Buccaneer-class Cargo DropShip Jeremy knew the Pelican he was in had weapons but it would be the two Daggers who would do most of the work. “This is Captain Javier Martinez to Buccaneer-class DropShip Fraser Flyer; you’re called to maintain speed and heading and prepare to be boarded for inspection.â€
“We’re just running supplies to Lukrum Industries on St Lorisâ€
“You’re said delivery path is known; we are verifying what you are carrying as is the duty of the AFFS.†Palemoon said “failure to stop will result in immediate action.†She threatened
“Understood, we are slowing to allow your inspectors aboard.†Martinez responded moments later the Buccaneer began to turn in space aiming its thrusters against its direction of travel once it had turned the engines lit up and began to slow the DropShip’s speed.
“Cutting thrust to match theirs†Kincaid-Cameron responded “wow, she’s doing well†he commented as the ship deaccelerated faster than he was expecting the two Dagger’s flew past the DropShip turning around behind the ship. With both of their pursuers out of position suddenly weapons fire erupted from the DropShip with missiles targeted on the Daggers behind the ship while a trio of autocannons at the front of the ship opened fire on the Small Craft. “Taking evasive action!†Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron screamed throwing the ship to the port there were several heavy thumps along the rear of the ship. “We’ve got hostile tracking radar!†He called out “first shots were blind fired fighters have avoided most of it, our armour held.†He said continuing the ships turn as he did more autocannon, laser and missile fire flew out with autocannon fire ripping along the top of the Pelican while missiles peppered the two Daggers.
“Then let’s give them a response†Palemoon said responding “School Bus to Dagger Flight burn them!†She ordered weapons fire from the two fighters erupted ripping into the rear of the Buccaneer while missiles from the Pelican ripped into the nose of the ship. More missile and autocannon fire tore into the Pelican’s hull but the Buccaneer had taken more far more damage as the two Daggers continued their attack run moving passed the ship.
“Hull breach!†Kincaid-Cameron called out “Cargo hold’s taken some damage†he said throwing the ship to the port side turning away from them again “harjel pocket has deployed and sealed the hull. Marines checked in they’re all ok.â€
“Very good Lieutenant, let’s finish the job, School Bus to Dagger Flight they’re not taking the hint. Turn up the heat.â€
“Affirmative School Bus, coming around for another strike.†He responded as he did the two Daggers took a wide turn towards the Buccaneer as they did, they fired again striking the DropShip’s Cargo bay doors blowing them open to space. This caused the Buccaneer to turn violently away from them as the ship’s hold decompressed several of the crew and cargo were blown into open space. Additional missiles from the Pelican tore into the front of the ship followed by another round of weapons fire from the two Daggers. With the damage done from both the fighters and the Pelican the DropShip’s resistance to their attacks was beginning to wane with several airlocks decompressing from the damage caused.
“Fraser Flyer stand down before what’s left of your crew die†Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron communicated but it was too late the damage had been done to the ship and other sections were already decompressing with parts of the craft blowing away from its hull. “Stand down, we will offer assistance…†but as he spoke even, he could see the ship was done.
“Target destroyed†Palemoon said confirming it. “Lieutenant, bring us closer, we’ll deploy the marines to the wreck and search for survivors.â€
“They didn’t have a chance†he said glancing over at the DropShip seeing on the sensors that the ship's hull had been breached on almost every deck.
“No they didn’t†she said reaching for the controls believing her young co-pilot was in shock but before she could take the controls Jeremy moved the ship forwards spinning it so their cargo bay was pointed towards the DropShip it slowly opened and marines began to leave heading into the wreck of the Buccaneer. “Ease up, Lieutenant, you did well.†Palemoon said taking over the controls Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron slumped back into his seat reflecting about his opinion on Small Craft compared to Aerospace Fighters, this one wasn’t half bad.
Selarico, Outside City Hall
Sutama, Awano Prefecture
District of Philidelphia, Draconis Combine
19th August 3113
On the world of Sultama, under the Dome of Selarico Coordinator Akira Kurita stood beside members of the First Dieron Imperial Guard Regiment after their successful action against the Draconis Combine defenders. Initially it had turned into a raid but as the population had learned that former Draconis Combine leader Akira Kurita was leading the attack from his Sunder OmniMech the population rallied around the First Dieron Imperial and quickly a raid turned into a battle for liberation.
Now still in his Sunder’s cockpit Akira stood outside the City Hall of Selarico Akira watched as the City’s leaders were led out of the building with guards from the First Dieron Imperial. “No executions†he said over the OmniMech’s loudspeakers “I want the leaders of this world and the people to understand one thing, I still class them as my people and I still believe we are all members of the Draconis Combine.†He said making sure everyone understood. “Today life does not change for the people of Sultama other than you get better defenders.â€
Raid in Force
Mount Bruno Range, East of Kivapura
Irian, District of Marik
29th August 3113
Continuing their raids against the Free Worlds League to keep the people on edge and keep their warriors blooded and ready Clan Wolf had raided Irian intent on wresting the important production world from the Inner Sphere nation. The defenders had held the Wolves in check around all production facilities but had been unable to stop them capturing the city of Kivapura for three weekend they had failed to dig the Wolves out of the City.
While the Seventh District of Marik Regulars continued to try and break them out of their positions further units dropped from above firing as they fell. Aerospace fighters bombed the Wolves defence lines as the new units fell around them. Landing his Mad Cat II Enhanced Marshal Richard Steiner, the commander of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT, twisted the torso of his BattleMech and opened fire on the nearest Wolf BattleMech an Ice Ferret destroying the left arm. Elsewhere further BattleMechs and Battle Armour were landing all around.
Behind Free Worlds League lines, the remaining Uhlans armoured units were moving up to support the Free Worlds League’s lines. While there was only a fraction of the Uhlans remaining in fighting condition none of them had hesitated when he had commanded them to deploy on Irian to support SLDF and FWL defenders. Richard Steiner was proud of his people but angry that it had taken the SLDF and the Free Worlds League to get his unit off the Capellan/FWL boarder the Federated Suns had the equipment and assets to support and escort them out of the Free Worlds League but they hadn’t instead they’d left his unit to fend for itself. Now on Irian they were fighting again this time against a Clan though yet there were none of their brothers from the Federated Suns beside them.
Now under the guns of another three combined-arms regiments the Wolves in this area were on the retreat pulling back towards their DropShips that had landed within the city. “Do not pursue them into the city, we’re not going to kill civilians chasing raiders.â€
“This Colonel Francis Watt to unknown force, please identify yourself.â€
“We’re the Kathil Uhlans Colonel Watt†Richard replied “the SLDF asked us to support, we’re only here to help.â€
“The Uhlans?†Watt responded “thank you for your assistance, and that of the SLDF.â€
“We’re here to help.â€
“Thanks' again Commander, if you’re here to help, you’re very welcome to be here.†The defender said as FWL units moved forwards to help secure the area and tend to the wounded. From the city the first Clan Wolf DropShip was taking off from the city as the Clan retreated.
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Glad to see you are still at it DC!
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Trail of Possession
Lucianca, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
1st September 3113
Testing one of their newest hovercraft Clan Hell’s Horses challenges Clan Jade Falcon to a trial of possession fielding their new Cartazonon Heavy OmniVehicle weighing in at sixty tons the hovercraft used technologies pioneered by on the Epona. The Cartazonon came in five distinct models and the Hell’s Hoses planned their battle accordingly using the Prime and alternate A configurations to begin the battle the Hell’s Horses bombarded the Jade Falcons with volley after volley of Advanced Tactical and Long-Range Missiles. As the Falcons came closer the Horses made the Cartazonon’s speed and close in weaponary of the B, C and D configurations to out maneuver the heavier Jade Falcon units and their Battle Armour forces.
After several hours of fighting the Jade Falcon’s Second Falcon Lancers Cluster evacuate from the world taking with them a salvaged Cartazonon. which despite the disdain the Falcons held for vehicles had intrigued them after its showing on Lucianca. For the Hell’s Horses the battle had proven that their first new weapon worked in battle.
Christifori Household
Ecol City, Thorin
Thorin PDZ, Star League Protectorate
18th September 3113
It felt strange to be back on Thorin he’d been here for seven months and still Morgan Chirstifori wasn’t entirely adapted to it. The Ghost Bears had sent him back here to represent their Clan in the Inner Sphere but he didn’t know how he was supposed to do this the SLDF had given him access to the Mechbay that housed his Shirke OmniMech but otherwise had cast him aside on the world instead he’d been left to try and become part of the world again alone. His mother as leader of the Thorin PDZ travelled among the different worlds as part of her duties she’d asked him if he wished to go with her but he didn’t instead he wanted to find out how he could continue to serve the Rasalhague Dominion in his new position.
There was a knock at the front door on his way Morgan grabbed his personal sidearm, a gauss pistol, before opening it only to see a familiar face. “Marika†he almost whispered recognizing the intelligence officer he’d known before being captured by the Ghost Bears.
“You didn’t call†she said in response reminding him that they said they’d talk again.
“I was out of call range for a bit†he said smirking seeing that despite the years they had been separated she was still as beautiful as he remembered. “Please come in†he said stepping to the side revealing his sidearm still in his hand.
“Expecting someone else?â€
“There have been some locals who are against my return to Thorin. They see my presence here as an affront to my parent’s legacy because of my current connections.†He explained there have been a couple of threats no action yet.
“The SLDF could arrange protection†she said entering the main room of the house “it’s beautiful here your mother keeps a beautiful home.â€
“She is not home as often as she would like to be, she lives to serve the Star League much like my father did.†He said “please take a seat, would you like a drink?â€
“No, thank you†she said sitting down “so any plans for what your going to do since your return?â€
“I am waiting for the Diplomatic Corps to get back to me, I am officially a representative of the Rasalhague Dominion.†He explained “the most the SLDF have given me is a place to park my Mech.
“I saw that, an impressive machine.â€
“I claimed it from the Jade Falcons in battle†he explained
“Impressive†she said again she smirked it was strange he once felt that the two fo them were destined to be together but now they spoke to each other like they were strangers.
“There is another option you reactivate your Star League commission.â€
“Not sure if I can do that, I have to be true to who I have become as well as who I was.†He said Marika nodded her agreement with him understanding he’d gone through changes while with the bears.
“So until then you’ll mope about here?â€
“I am sure I will keep myself busy.â€
“You’d better not become a stranger?â€
“Not a chance.â€
Planetary Vote, Prefect’s Office
Beauborg, Las Hales
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
24th September 3113
Since the departure of the First Kathil Uhlans, the SLDF units that were with them and the Free Worlds League reinforcements that had helped defend the world Las Halles had been struggling to recover from the lost revenue which the increased population had brought. As the leader of the world Prefect Freema Smit had tried to bring in further investment into the world but only a few were interested in investing in a border world that had recently suffered from raids of a nearby state. As a result of the ever-worsening financial state a general election had been called for the world now Freema waited for the result.
There was a knock on the door and Freema rose from her chair as her aide Eleazar Tiberias entered she was more than an aide she’d been her friend for years and the purple dress she’d chosen tonight was specifically to help promote Freema’s position as the preferred FWL candidate in tonight’s election. “Ella†the Prefect said but then she saw the young woman’s face “we did all we could, thank you, thank all of the team and tell them I will be out in a minute.†She said her words brought tears to her friend’s face but she nodded and she left. Freema took another look around her office and cursed the day that the Uhlans came to this world, she also silently thanked their arrival, it was time for a change in her life.
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It's been a while, too long, but with everything going on I felt the desire to write a bit and show not everything was changing. I'll hopefully do more updates on a more regular basis over the next few weeks.
I hope everyone who reads this is doing well, is healthy and enjoys it
Pirate Base
Freedom VI, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
8th October 3113
Gamma squad moved quickly through into the ground facility their four Purifier Battle Armour continuously shifting in pattern to match their surroundings as they did. Their mission was simple eliminate the pirates who were using Freedom VI as a staging ground and end the pirate raids that had been plaguing the nearby planets.
As they passed the outer building, they encountered the first guards waiting outside one of the sealed facilities. The first three troopers turned their weapons and gunned down three pirates who were on guard duty with their anti-personnel weapons each of the men were hit several times their EVA suits punctured by the weapons fire. They then swapped to their anti-armour weapons blasting open a door explosively venting the atmosphere each of the troopers entered quickly, inside they saw several pirates gasping for air as they tried to breath in a rapidly decompressing room. Gamma squad’s four troopers opened fire putting each of the pirates out of their misery beyond the room emergency bulkhead doors were closing sealing the rest of the facility off from their section. The bulkheads didn’t stop the troopers through who quickly moved towards the next secure door blasting open the door.
In the other section’s pirates had begun donning environmental suits and grabbing weapons turning against Gamma squad as weapons fire began to fill the corridors of the pirate’s facility. The Purifiers continued to move despite the weapons fire engaging the pirates at point blank range killing them one by one as they moved through the facility. Moving through the facility the members of Gamma squad didn’t stop until all of the pirates present at the base were dead one of the Gamma squad’s members and nearly forty pirates had fallen in the short brutal battle. Setting charges throughout the base Gamma squad left leaving the facility to explode burying all who had lost their lives in the fight.
Days later the pirate DropShip returned to the world to find at facility destroyed the company of BattleMechs that belonged to Raymond’s Hussars were all that was left of the company. In the wreckage of their base they found each of those who had fallen defending the base and a part of a Purifier Battle Armour suit now their mission had changed from raiding for profit to revenge.
Vision Quest
Ways of Seeing Park, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den
12th October 3113
The Ways of Seeing Park on New Barcella, the capital of the Nova Cat’s Den, was the litteral heart of the Nova Cat’s spirituality and Vision quests. Nova Cat warriors from across the Clan returned to New Barcella and the Ways of Seeing Park for their Vision Quests travelling across the park alone sacrificing their vineeers, searching for a vision of their path or the Clan’s path. Today Khan Canin Rosse was one of many Nova Cats taking their own personal quests. Canin had chased visions many times over his eighty years with Clan Nova Cat some had proven change his Clan irreprepreably while others had only led to minor changes.
Alone dozens of miles from the nearest other Nova Cat Canin Rosse sat with his legs crossed beside a small fire. He been sat in the same place for several hours without moving despite his vineers turning to ash and the weather turning to rain. No vision had come today, it wasn’t his first unsuccessful quest, this time he’d been sure. Instead he had waited for nothing, overhead a VTOL craft flew over his position before landing nearby Rosse ignored it knowing exactly who it would be. He heard the figure approaching “how is it that you always turn up when you know a warrior is at an impasse?†He said even before the massive hulk that was Oathmaster Klick Lenardon approached.
“A feeling†Lenardon said quietly “and satellites†he admitted Canin couldn’t help but smile glancing up at the warrior.
“They always help. I haven’t found anything helpful today†Rosse said uncrossing his legs stretching his muscles “I think I’m getting too old for this.†He said feeling the fatigue pass through him. Lenardon reached his arm down and grasped Rosse’s hand pulling up up to his feet as he did the blood rushed to the Khan’s head and images followed. Lenardon held the Khan until he regained his balance and met his eyes. “I’m getting to old for this†he said looking around him, looking for answers to the images.
“Bad?â€
“Bad†Rosse confirmed “many Nova Cats with die if I am right and there’s something else, our very spirit is threatened.â€
“Our spirit?â€
“My vision showed a Nova Cat and its spirit being drawn from the body existing almost as its own entity, how can the Nova Cats be separated from its very own spirit?†The Khan said his voice almost shaking.
“The Nova Cat spirit is part of its very being, you being here shows our spirit is as strong as it has ever been our Khan leads us by example.†Lenardon said with a quiet confidence but the Khan looked visibly concerned.
“Until the example leads us off the path.†Khan Canin Rosse suggested worried about his own position and his own future as well as his Clan's suddenly things he thought were solid under his feet were threatened. "Perhaps it is time for me to move on? Perhaps my visions and my leadership are what brings us down this destructive path?"
"And perhaps its you doubting yourself and ignoring your spirit that causes the death and destruction you foresaw?" Klick Lenardon suggested "Khan Rosse you have led for many years, outlived many who could have done us harm, perhaps it is time for you to move on. Perhaps it is also time for you to remain and to ward off these threats."
"You are not helping" Rosse said angrily
"I am warning you not to make a hasty choice. Think about your vision and allow your it time to come to pass."
Trade Mission
Twin Sons, Smoke Jaguar Territory
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
19th October 3113
Warrior-merchant Evan Sennet entered the meeting room with great apprehension he’d been meeting with people throughout the Free Worlds League making deals over the last couple of months but today today was going to be a strange day. In the room already sat Khan Petra Furey, the leader of the reborn Clan Smoke Jaguar, and General Ethan Brewer-Cameron-Jones one of the military leaders of the District of Lesnovo.
“Welcome to Twin Sons Warrior-merchant†the General said
“Thank you, General Brewer†he said “why did you choose to meet here instead of Lesnovo? Why is she here?†He almost spat looking at the younger woman
“A little respect from you little Fox†Furey responded
“To the leader of a failed Clan?†Sennet asked “your people are more than they once were but you are still not Clan. Perhaps I should have just brought warriors for a Trial of Absorption?â€
“You would pay for it in blood. We aspire to rise againâ€
“Perhaps you should change your name to the Pheonix, Quineg?†He demanded looking at her a smile playing on his mouth.
“Neg†she snapped "our spirit is that of a Jaguar."
“I assume, General, that my being here instead of on Lesnovo is because of her, and her people Quiaff?†He asked looking at the Lesnovo leader who nodded “we cannot deal directly with the dezgra.†He said “but we would perhaps be willing to trade with yourself depending on what you are looking for?â€
“Weapons, armour and ammunition that can be retrofitted onto BattleMechs. Battle Armour and Power armour units and some support equipment.†Brewer-Cameron-Jones said passing a small folder with paper pages inside. Sennet quickly picked up the document but stopped on one of the pages.
“We cannot provide these pieces of equipment†he said angrily throwing down several pieces of papers showing the Clan Iron Wombs “they could only be used for one thing which we cannot be part of.â€
“Medical research†Brewer-Cameron-Jones said “our people’s health is of utmost importance. We plan to provide our people with superior medical care, better medical care than anyone else in the entire Free Worlds League. We could grow new limbs for people who were hurt in accidents, new organs for those in need of them.â€
“And they could be used for other purposesâ€
“Which will be secondary to our primary goal†Furey said “initially weapons are what my people want out of this deal.â€
“In exchange for?â€
“An outpost on Twin Sons and access to our Ultra-Light BattleMech program along with our hand-held weapons.†Furey suggested
“Not enough†Sennet said looking at the General as well “her people know how important this is to them and they will offer us anything but if you wish our assistance as well then you will pay for the risks we will take.â€
“We are also willing to offer you a permanent presence on Lesnovo.†He suggested but Sennet still didn’t look convinced “and sole control over the Rzhishchev system†he said naming a barely habited mining colony the system was close to another Sea Fox holding on Westover and make it their third fully controlled FWL system. “Although if anyone wishes to leave you will allow them to?â€
“Affirmative, we will allow that†Sennet agreed “we will deal with the District not with the Clansmen that you have on your payroll.†He snarled at Furey “we will also not deal with them in future negotiations. If they arrive we will meet as warriors not as negotiators.â€
Planetary Defence Command, IrTech Headquarters
Kentwood, Irian,
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
28th October 3113
Though he’d done so on a hundred other worlds Marshal Richard Steiner found it strange entering the planetary defence command on Irian as it was not located in deep inside a military bunker or even on a military installation instead it was in the heart of the IrTech Headquarters. Through the centuries the company had gained defacto control over the entire world with its factories employing more than three quarters of the population directly and funding the employment of the remaining quarter. The Free Worlds League government had always maintained good relations with the world and the world had always supplied the armed forces of the Free Worlds League with some of the best equipment the Inner Sphere could build so it was a relationship that worked for them. For a Federated Suns officer, even one who had been out of his nation’s chain of command for some time, it felt strange he walked up to the reception desk to be greeted by the receptionist she was young perhaps twenty years old had dark blonde hair tied back in a ponytail and was dressed in a corporate blue/purple suit of IrTech.
“Good morning, sir†she greeted raising from her chair.
“Good morning, I’m here to see Colonel Helmuth Laue†he said naming the commander of the Irian Corporate Guards another thing that felt wrong. Of the three Free Worlds League units based on Irian it was the Corporate officer who was in charge of planetary defence, the unit was also the strongest defence unit on the world at three reinforce combined arms regiments.
“Of course please wait a moment†she said Richard Steiner stood to the side and waited, as other people were spoken to calmly by the receptionist like any other day not a day that Clan invaders were landing on the planetary soil.
A young FWLM Lieutenant approached dressed in his standard day to day uniform “Marshal Steiner?†He asked Richard felt like asking him how many other Federated Suns uniformed Marshals there were on the planet but chose not to and simply nodded. “Colonel Laue will see you now if you come this way.â€
He was led through the complex passed dozens of Free Worlds League militia officers to a set of offices inside the largest stood Colonel Helmuth Laue a large barrel of a man dressed in a Free Worlds League uniform that looked more like a corporate suit than a uniform. “Guten Nachmittag, wie geht es Ihnen†he greeted in his native German.
“guten Nachmittag, bin ich fein danke†Richard replied despite his Steiner name he was actually a better French speaker than a German one but he knew enough to have a conversation of the Colonel decided that was how today would go.
“Very good Marshal, I’m glad you are in good health, the people of Kivapura are treating you well?†He asked switching to English naming the city that the Kathil Uhlans had been based at since arriving on Irian a month before.
“Yes, Colonel Watt and the Seventh has been very helpful.â€
“Then how can I help you Marshal?â€
“As my unit is presently representing both the Federated Suns and Star League Defence Force I have been authorised by the SLDF to extend this offer Colonel.†He said handing over a small datapad Helmuth Lawe took the bad and looked at it briefly before heading over to the Drinks cabinet pouring himself an Irian Whisky he then poured one for Steiner as well.
“You know I came here from the Lyran Commonwealth nearly twenty years ago?†He asked walking over with the glasses handing one to Steiner. “I was sick of the internal bickering of the LCAF the lack of coordination against a joint threat and the continuous uncertainty. The money enticed me and I thought Irian of all the worlds wouldn’t be threatened with external threat.â€
“Yet here we are, the Free Worlds League cannot support you already here on Irian the First Atrean Dragoons are no more due to the Clan Wolf raids the District of Marik unwilling to stump up the funds to rebuild them.†He said even though they were based on a factory world the unit had been informed it could not take resources from the factory without IrTech approval the warriors of the unit had refused to join the Irian Corporate Guards and so been refused support so instead they had merged with the Seventh Marik Militia keeping them operational. With the fall of Avellaneda and Abadan they are even more on the defence now than ever.â€
“Regulus dropped the ball on that one even the mercenaries we had here could have held back the Wolves instead they pulled back at the first sign of Clan attack.†He said angrily drinking some of his whisky. “I assume you’ve already spoken to Colonel Watt regarding this?†He asked it was breaking protocol but Steiner had fought with the Colonel for over a month.
“Affirmative, even with the Atrean Dragoons merging with the Seventh the unit is paper thin and in need of more than a year of rest and refit. The last communication they had from command higher than yourself was three months ago, the unit are tired and feel abandoned they are ready for a change.â€
“IrTech would welcome themâ€
“I’m sure you would but with the Harbinger’s destruction last week the Enterprise alone cannot hold back Wolf Naval forces.â€
“Two SLDF WarShips arrived yesterday.â€
“The Oslo and Paris are here to escort my unit out of the system, we’ve already given more blood in this nation than we ever expected.†Steiner explained “they would remain in the system if we had a reason to remain.â€
“You do your name well†Lawe suggested that the Marshal was leaning on his family’s deal maker heritage. “So what would happen if I took this deal to the executives and the Hughes with my support?â€
“Irian would essentially become a member state of the Star League Protectorate and gain all support member worlds are entitled to. IrTech would be welcome to continue to sell goods to the Free Worlds League as part of this deal and would be welcome to bid for contracts across the Star League held worlds.â€
“Which they already do†Lawe pointed out that wasn’t a selling point for the deal.
“But being from a member world would give them additional weight in any negotiation.â€
“And what about the forces here?â€
“The Seventh have already decided that they will remain on Irian after this change. We’ve worked with them for months so I could see the unit being merged with my own but that is not presently my decision to make. The Enterprise will be jumping out of the system tonight her CO has already decided that they belong in the Free Worlds League and they are willing to take anyone with them who wants to join.†Richard Steiner explained breaking down the Free Worlds League units on planet. “The Wild Watchdogs and the Zodiac Phantoms have both been offered contracts with the SLDF both are considering their position, while also open to signing on with Irian if this system chooses to remain independent, neither wish to return to the Free Worlds League.â€
“And my own forces?â€
“Officially you’d be classed as mercenary forces directly under the control of IrTech. If you wished you could take contracts across the Inner Sphere or remain here. I’d expect if Irian decided to join the Protectorate you’d be welcome.â€
“Why are you an officer of the AFFS passing this message? Why is it not one of the commanders of the WarShips that have arrived or a negotiator?â€
“My unit has officially decided to join the SLDF as full-time members. Since we left the Federated Suns we’ve taken on so many recruits from the Free Worlds League we’re not entirely from the nation that built us. We’ve seen the good we can do across the Inner Sphere and we wish to continue to help worlds.â€
“Will they allow you to go home to see your families?†Lawe asked out of curiosity more than anything since leaving Lyran service he hadn’t once set foot on his homeworld despite leaving on good terms. What the Uhlans were doing sounded like outright desertion.â€
“That will be up to the Federated Suns and is something we will discuss once out of the combat zone. For now, we are each with members of our family, our unit.â€
“In principle I agree with the ideas here but it will be up to the Company and Mr Hughes to decide wether or not to proceed.â€
“I understand that, I’ll return to my unit, feel free to communicate with any other command during this time as well as with the Enterprise before she leaves orbit.†He said finishing off the drink Lawe had poured him placing down the glass then giving the Colonel a salute before leaving the office. Lawe walked over to the drinks cabinet and poured himself another drink, there were huge changes on the horizon for his world.
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It's been a while, too long, but with everything going on I felt the desire to write a bit and show not everything was changing. I'll hopefully do more updates on a more regular basis over the next few weeks.
I hope everyone who reads this is doing well, is healthy and enjoys it
Glad to hear it. I will likewise be trying to accomplish more here thanks to the World standing Still.
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If anyone has anything they want to see in the timeline feel free to PM me. I've got the basics but I'm currently trying to fluff out the next few years of the timeline so feel free with your suggestions it will help a lot.
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I'm hoping every little helps at the moment, this is my little bit
Planetary Invasion
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
4th November 3113
In a move responding to increased pirate activity along their border but not authorized by the Free Worlds League Government the District of Lesnovo enter the Alphard system with the equivalent six regiments worth of troops supported by the WarShip Streaking Mist.
In defence of its homeworld the barely operational WarShip MHS Hanse attempted to stop the Lesnovo forces but the Lola III-class Destroyer was no match for the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser which swept past the vessel crushing it in a single flying pass with heavy autocannon fire. With no other WarShips to oppose them the District of Lesnovo forces had progressed rapidly towards the planet.
Leading her forces from the seat of her Shadow Cat OmniMech Khan Petra Furey controlled the fall of the Mech as her forces entered the atmosphere. “Jaguars and Lesnovo forces we do not stop until the Palace is rubble and the Caesar lays dead at my feet.†She broadcast as a group of aerospace fighters flew past her falling Mech engaging the rising Marian forces. Right now she was at her most vulnerable in a forty-five ton falling OmniMech with minimal capability to protect herself she would rely on those fighters for the next few minutes.
The Jaguar Aerospace Fighters were simply better trained and better equipped to deal with the Marian fighters. While most of Clan Sea Fox’s weapons were being filtered to their forces which were based in the district she’d taken her most battle hardened warriors for this battle. Below they knew that there were the three main defence forces of the Marian Hegemony and Caesar Alekandr Ward leader of the nation. It had been a hard sell with the people of Lesnovo that this was the best course of action but she had convinced them that with Alphard under Free Worlds League control they could have peace along this Periphery border they she could turn towards other issues. Once the operation had been agreed the people had been quite happy to throw themselves behind it and the warriors appeared to be ready for a fight, it would be a good test for them, and those that survived would be welcomed into the ranks of the Smoke Jaguar. The people of Lesnovo didn’t appear to be overly affected by her people’s heritage or the troubles associated with the Smoke Jaguar name instead they were happy to see her people improving their infrastructure, their defence and their place in the Free Worlds League.
While she thought about what could be for her people, she realized the altitude alarm was sounding and cut in her OmniMech’s Jump Jets as it fell slowing her descent. She saw that many of her forces were already on the ground and pushing towards enemy forces. Zooming in on them she saw that it was her own Alpha Galaxy that were at the front of the push followed closely by the First Rim Crusaders. In her cockpit Petra smiled the Rim Crusaders were perhaps one of the most vocal in their support for her people believing that too long they had waited for others to make choices for them.
As the Khan’s Shadow Cat landed on the ground she detected a flight of incoming missiles and dodged to the right allowing them to harmlessly fly by glancing at her sensors Khan Furey saw what Mech the missiles had come from, a one hundred ton monster known Grand Crusader II, on its chest was the symbol of the Word of Blake. “Stavag!†She shouted out angrily turning on the Mech firing her Shadow Cat’s Gauss Rifle hitting the Grand Crusader right in the middle of the chest, the BattleMech ignored the monster as only and assault Mech could and turned both of its arm mounted pulse lasers on her firing catching the Mech across its left side melting away armour. Petra was outmatched and she knew it but so did the other forces around her. While a Jaguar warrior would not interfere with her battle the forces of the District of Lesnovo were less choosy and together nearly a full company of Rim Crusader BattleMechs opened up on the enemy Grand Crusader II. While an assault Mech could ignore one gauss rifle they couldn’t ignore hundreds of missiles, supported by lasers, particle cannons and autocannons. The Grand Crusader pilot obviously thought he could take on anything as he continued to engage the Free Worlds League troops but it was a battle he could never win. Petra ran her Shadow Cat around the under siege giant and fired several laser shots into its back causing damage to the Mech’s gyro and engine surprisingly the pilot did not eject instead he continued to fight even as a second assault from the Rim Crusaders landed around the Mech Petra chse to ignore the Mech there was no glory in combining with others to kill a Mech even one the size of the Grand Crusader. “Khan Petra Furey to all forces confirmed Word of Blake forces on Alphard, repeat confirmed Word of Blake forces on the planet unknown strength, proceed with caution.â€
Quickly as the battle continued to progress different units confirmed the presence of further Word of Blake units which were supporting the defence of Alphard. For a split second Petra Furey was tempted to call on the unthinkable and ask the Streaking Mist to bombard the Marian capital city but she knew what it would look like that the Jaguars had not learned from their predecessors mistake and repeared the Turtle Bay Massacre making them a target for everyone in the Inner Sphere. Today was not the day for that action instead the Jaguars continued to grind through the Marian and Word of Blake forces sacrificing the First Rim Sentinels Regiment almost in its entirety with the survivors merged with the Smoke Jaguar’s Beta Galaxy formation its warriors accepted as abtakha, accepted warriors.
Pushing through the shattered streets Khan Petra Furey and the other Jaguars turned onto an almost prestine open boulevard which led through the centre of the city and was wide enough for a dozen BattleMechs to march along side by side. At the end of the boulevard she saw her target, the Caesar’s Palace, in front of it stood a wall of BattleMechs and armour. “This is Khan Petra Furey of the District of Lesnovo who defends this palace?â€
“A KHAN? What Clan do you represent? Why are you defiling the Blessed soil of Blake?†A young sounding voice called out Furey tracked the transmission to a strange looking BattleMech that appeared almost to have a hawk like head, broad almost padded shoulders, a large cannon on one arm and a sword or some sort of retractable blade on the other. It was a large Mech at least eighty tons perhaps heavier.
“I am Khan Petra Furey of Clan Smoke Jaguar, and I am here to rid the Inner Sphere of your menace and end the threat to the District of Lesnovo.â€
“SMOKE JAGUAR!!†The other warrior screamed before bursting into almost manical laughter “FINALLY, the children of the Blessed Blake are allowed to destroy what we, APOLLYN’S CHOSEN, were born to do.†The warrior almost screamed stepping forward his BattleMech along the line the entire line of Mechs and armour moved forwards. “I am Aleksandr Ward, Caesar of Alphard, Chosen Brother of Cassandra and Faithful Brother of Blake!†He announced as the moving line opened fire almost as one some how not a single shot hit Khan Furey’s battered OmniMech.
“That is all I wanted to know. All units, this is Furey, commence immediate bombardment!†From behind her forces lines artillery positions set up by her forces began to bombard the incoming enemy forces. Her own line of BattleMechs and armour opened fire simultaneously targeting enemy positions. “We do not stop until they are all dead!†She commanded accelerating forwards engaging her Shadow Cat’s MASC system taking her several kilometres closer to the enemy she fired her gauss rifles as she moved decapitating an enemy Stinger BattleMech killing its pilot. She then headed to the right twisting her Mech’s torso as she did firing several laser shots into a passing tank before turning the gauss rifle on the Caesar’s mystery Mech blasting its chest with the weapon the Mech shrugged off the attack and opened fire on it with its autocannon hammering away armour on the Mech’s torso and leg. Petra returned fire with her Gauss rifle again with a Shadow Hawk and a Thanatos opening fire on the same target. Petra turned to see one of the Mechs that had fired was a Jaguar BattleMech and took a mental note of the Mech, the Marians had broken duling laws but her people were Jaguars, she’d see them in a Circle of Equals if they survived this battle. In the meantime however she had more important things to do, like killing the Caesar. As she moved her Mech she sprayed the strange Mech with laser fire as it twisted its torso and tried to hit her with the bladed arm the retractable blade flew out of the BattleMech’s arm but thankfully missed her Shadow Cat. Instead of tempting fate again by remaining so close she engaged the Shadow Cat’s jump jets launching herself away from the target as autocannon shells hammered the location she had been standing in and the air around her Mech. She was outgunned by the enemy Mech but she wasn’t about to let that get to her cutting the jump short she twisted the Shadow Cat’s torso and fired a gauss rifle shot straight into the the enemy Mech shattering its left torso armour and the missile launcher there. The Mech staggered back but then fired again on her this time with missiles and a particle cannon both of which ripped into her Mech’s left arm. Glancing at the damage she saw the precious gauss rifle, her main weapon, was not damaged and lined up another shot this one flew straight past the targeted Mech impacting on the back of a Catapult that had come to the aid of the Caesar. Petra was happy to see a huge explosion blossom from the Catapult as its missile bin exploded blowing through the Mech’s armour gutting it throwing the BattleMech to the ground as fire consumed its torso and its pilot, how a Mech by modern standards didn’t have CASE bemused Petra but she didn’t have time to gloat as the Caesar ripped into her Shadow Cat with more autocannon fire. Glancing down Petra saw that the armour was now breached on two parts of her Mech’s torso, the Shadow Cat wasn’t built for this kind of battle. The last thing she wanted to do was ask for help from another warrior.
Fortunately, she did not need to call for assistance as fate was on her side as the enemy Mech stepped forwards it stepped on a mine which had been seeded during their initial artillery bombardment. The explosion ripped up the right-hand side of the huge Mech consuming its right foot completely as it tore open the armour there snapping the myomer muscles which allowed the Mech to move fluidly. The huge Mech stumbled forwards as the pilot struggled to control his now crippled Mech but there was little chance of remaining standing as Petra fired another gauss shot straight into the right leg buckling the knee joint on the crippled limb. The huge Mech finally seemed to give up its fight with gravity and slammed down on the ground ripping the autocannon arm right off and embedding the retractable blade in the ground.
As the battle continued to rage around her Petra walked over opening a general radio frequency to the whole field. “Chosen?†She taunted the downed pilot as he tried to force his Mech back to its feet. “Chosen to die to the Jaguar’s Claws perhaps.†She said finally slamming her Shadow Cat’s foot down on the cockpit of the enemy Mech killing the pilot. Unlike in the tri-vid movies the battle did not end there even as Jaguars occupied and destroyed the Caesar’s Palace fighting continued for a further eighteen hours as defence elements of Alphard continued to resist and die to the invader’s guns. It did not go all the way of the District of Lesnovo’s way however three regiments from the District of Lesnovo’s own defence forces were essentially destroyed in the fighting with their survivors folded into the forces of the Smoke Jaguars swelling their touman’s ranks.
In the coming days assaults by the Free World’s Leagues District of Lesnovo and neighbouring District of Bowang saw a further nine systems fall as the Marian Hegemony began to collapse under the pressure of the attacks. The final death blow to the nation came however as Magistracy of Canopus forces launched attacks along the border systems crushing many of the Marian’s remaining defence units leaving a little over a brigade of warriors remaining reducing the Marian Hegemony Armed Forces to little more than a pirate band. Within months the systems of Sean, Charybdis IX and Chi Ceti VI are raided by these pirates and the factions around them so much that they are essentially classed as dead worlds with populations no longer sustainable beyond the current generation.
New Avalon News Network
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th November 3113
The lights in the studio came up to show a dark skinned man in his thirties dressed in a light grey suit with a dark “Davion†green tie. Behind him sat the Federated Suns flag with an image of Prince Luther Davion in front of it. “Ladies and Gentlemen of New Avalon, I am Theo Besson of the New Avalon News Network and tonight I bring you breaking news on our Prince, Luther Davion.†He said in a New Avalonian French-accent. He briefly shuffled some papers as the NANN’s theme tune played over the broadcast before looking back at the tri-vid camera once more. “Tonight, NANN has learned that Prince Luther Davion has been shot by a would-be assassin on Terra.†He said rapidly announcing the news. “The Prince was at a social event in Geneva when the assignation attempt took place.†He said continuing the news event. “It is believed that Prince Luther was rushed to the primary care facility in Geneva following the attack and while he has been severely injured he is described to be in a stable condition. There has been no comment from the Star League Embassy here on New Avalon nor from the Davion Royal Family’s official spokesperson regarding this event.â€
“As many of you will know Prince Luther has been studying at the Sandhurst Military Academy on Terra after choosing the Star League Academy over Federated Suns based institutions as a way of bringing the Star League and the Federated Suns closer together. During this time he has been seen visiting his Grandfather Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion and his Grandmother Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion†The Besson said as an image of Luther was seen “it is not believed that Star League Leader Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion was at the event where Prince Luther was injured, the Star League leader is reportedly currently visiting Star League Defence Force units which are based on the Clan Wolf border.†He said changing one of the pages on his table. “Over the past several weeks there has been talk of Luther returning to New Avalon for a break from his studies on Terra and possibly taking up a position at the New Avalon Institute of Sciences, it is possible that this unprovoked attack on the Prince may drive him into choosing to return to the Federated Suns on a full time basis.â€
“We will have more on this story throughout the night here on the New Avalon News Network but to recap Prince Luther Davion has been shot and severely injured on Terra, his injuries at this time are not expected to be life threatening.â€
Raids
Free Worlds League
22nd November 3113
Beginning with the world of New Delos and continuing through more than a dozen worlds throughout the Free Worlds League raids are conducted against Free Worlds League weapons depots, food storage facilities and fuel refineries. In each raid those involved use the colours of neighbouring states to throw off defenders’ perceptions of who is involved leading to border conflicts between the Free Worlds League, the Capellan Confederation, the Lyran Commonwealth and the Magistracy of Canopus there are also internal fights between the various districts of the Free Worlds League.
Only on one of the worlds are the attackers quite clear on the world of Wallis two distinct units are seen one is well known pirate band Lincoln’s Rotting Corpse, a regiment sized combined arms unit, while the other is a known Word of Blake splinter unit the Whispers of Blake. During the fighting the two units successfully occupy Ronin Incorporated destroying the Sixth Cameron-Jones Guard and driving back the corporately hired Chaos Irregulars Mercenary Command. While the Irregulars remain an active command with many Regulan warriors joining their ranks the Whispers essentially are in control over the system.
Among the Whispers forces is a single MIT-23 Medical Transport Vehicle, four Raptor II BattleMechs and several squads of unknown types of Battle Armour forces who take several MechWarriors prisoner including Chaos Irregulars warriors Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson and MechWarrior Aletha Chowla.
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Hope everyone's doing alright here's a bit more
Capellan Confederaton national Census
Andurien Commonality
Periphery
1st December 3113
As part of the national Census of the Capellan Confederation officials announce that they will officially recoignise the worlds of Ichangis, Fjadr, Bringdam, Ryans Fate, Enkra, Mechdur and Zangul all along the Taurian Concordat/Fronc Reaches all of which will be opened to visitors and immigration for the first time. While all the systems had been inhabited for years they had officially not been registered as they had extremely small populations.
The Capellans announce that further relocations of the nation’s population will take place in the following months to boost these worlds economy and improve the economy of other worlds. They also announce plans for the system of Victoria to once again be recoignised as a Commonality Capital within the next two years as more worlds are brought back into the Capellan Confederation.
Rebel assault
Wallis, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
12th December 3113
Jocoam “Jake†Chowla was hated his new BattleMech he’d captured it from the Whispers of Blake for this assault it weighed in at seventy tons had three particle cannons, a gauss rifle and a retractable blade but it was uncomfortable to sit in. The space designated for the cockpit was tiny and had a weird interface that he wasn’t able to use instead he sat uncomfortably in the Mech waiting for the Whispers guards to allow him to enter their base.
This plan was more than two weeks in the making and he didn’t plan on messing it up now. Behind him were his two Mechs and three vehicles making up their “patrol unit†he didn’t like the idea of a unit being divisable by 6 but that’s what the Whispers employed just like the Word of Blake so he’d play along. In the hills around them the rest of the Chaos Irregulars and local militia were waiting for his signal.
Finally, the guards allowed him and his companions to enter. Jake stepped his Mech forwards through the large metal gates as they opened and stopped allowing his companions to enter first, he knew it wouldn’t take long for the Whispers to realise that the Mechs that had accompanied his Mech were not the same that left. Across the courtyard of the Whispers fire base Jake saw several troopers running into a hut before running out carrying portable short-range missile launchers while others began climbing into several vehicles. “Operation Code: GAMES UP!†Jake shouted a warning firing all three of the torso mounted particle cannons into the hut where the troopers had gotten their heavy weapons consuming it in weapons fire. Behind him the gate began closing again but Jake wasn’t about to allow his force to be contained instead he spun his BattleMech’s torso bringing the left arm and its retractable blade down on the door bisecting it. He then kicked out with his seventy ton Mech’s foot slamming into the gate knocking the broken part to the ground below infantry began to pepper his Mech with small arms fire but he ignored them he wasn’t outfitted to engage them instead he spun his Mech’s torso again and levelled the right arm at a barracks facility firing the gauss rifle into it knocking in one of the walls. The Gauss rifle itself wasn’t an explosive weapon using force and speed to cause the damage which was what he needed making the building accessible without destroying it. Around him it was chaos as his lance mates continued to fire on enemy forces out of the back of a Goblin Infantry Fighting Vehicle infantry troopers began to spill out of the back as the vehicle crew covered them firing its machine guns and pulse laser. Unlike the vehicle which had been repainted white for this operation the infantry wore their Chaos Irregulars uniform.
From the Mechbay a seventy-five ton Toyama stepped clear of the facility firing its arm mounted autocannon and lasers only to be hit by by Jake’s particle cannons and several large lasers, missiles and autocannons from Jake’s companions as they all ganged up on the heavy Mech cutting it to pieces in a ferocious display of combined fire. Jake turned the gauss rifle on the target and hit it again adding in the particle cannons again as the enemy Mech fell. “Infantry clear out the buildings find our people!†He snapped “Wolf to Sheepdog, we’re in begin assault.â€
“Sheepdog to Wolf, we’ve engaged the Whispers nearly ten kilometres from the base they had people out and about. Assault force delayed on rendezvoux. Mission outcome unknown.â€
“Wolf, I’m not giving up now. Get here when you can we’ll hold them up!†Jade shouted angrily at the militia man he hadn’t expected to find more Whispers in the field most of them in this area were supposed to be in their base. As he fought determinedly to keep the enemy off balance several missiles slammed into his Mech the last one carried an inferno warhead which exploded covering his Mech in flaming liquid. “Son of a…†Jake screamed angrily firing his Mech’s particle cannons into the group of infantries as he swiped at the Mech’s chest with his retractable blade cutting away much of the liquid away from his Mech but still the heat was still rising. “I need some help here!†He shouted a warning his Mech had no explosive ammunition but the gauss rifle could be a bomb itself it things got really out of hand.
Fortunately for Jake several of the infantry had been paying attention to his plight and had commandeered a Saurer-Bucher fire fighting vehicle and were already dousing his in coolant it wasn’t perfect but it was helping. Jake paid them back by hitting a Whispers of Blake Saracen Hovertank his gauss rifle shot went straight through the hovertank causing its explosive ammunition to explode consuming the craft in fire. The infantry forces in the fire fighting vehicle continued to cool his Mech extinguishing the flames. “Thanks boys!†He shouted stepping away from them engaging a Whispers of Blake Ghurka BattleMech flattening the light BattleMech with his assault.
“Wolf, we’ve got the Colonel and Aletha along with thirty that is three-zero other combants we’re extracting to transport!†One of the squad leaders reported
“Commandeer whatever you need we’ll cover!†Jake responded anxious to ask how Aletha was after she’d been shot out of her Mongoose fighting the Whispers. Off to his right the Argus that was in his lance exploded as another Whispers of Blake Mech jumped over the compound fences landing on its left shoulder slamming the sixty-ton Mech into the floor as it exploded. “Com’on!†Jake shouted turning on the newly landed Wraith BattleMech it was smaller than his Mech and faster it was also armed with a series of pulse lasers that lashed out at this Mech bathing it in glowing light as more than a ton or armour vapourized.
Jake twisted his Mech’s torso towards the Wraith and unleashed all three particle cannons adding in his gauss rifle as it came in line. Two of the particle cannons sizzled by the rounded armour Mech while the third slammed into its head melting the armour there. Jake had been in a Mech after suffering a head hit and actually felt a little sorry for the pilot just as his gauss rifle slug slammed into its right leg. The heavy damage caused the pilot to lose control and fall over. Jake turned to finish off the Wraith only for a particle cannon shot to slam into his back burning through torso armour and internal structure ruining one of the particle cannons. “Get the hell out of here PBIs!†He shouted angrily as the fire truck, two Bruno II Cargo trucks and a Pit Bull flat bed pulled out following the Goblin clear of the base. Jake saw one of his lancemates run over to the Wraith that was beginning to get back up and swing out with its armoured fist. The BattleMech hand went straight through the Wraith’s already damaged head armour crushing the pilot inside. Jake didn’t like to see MechWarriors execute other MechWarriors like that but he’d seen a lot of the Chaos Irregulars killed in the last few days and he didn’t think it was over yet.
Turning he saw a Whispers of Blake Puma combat vehicle engage them again with its particle cannon and long-range missiles showering the Goblin with fire. The Infantry Fighting Vehicle stood up to the fire and returned fire with its own pulse laser but it couldn’t hold off attack from the larger vehicle for long. “I promise you the BattleMech running at you is a bigger threat†Jake cursed running at the combat vehicle hitting it with both of his particle cannons as he ran, he’d used some of his gauss ammo already and didn’t plan on wasting shots. The Puma engaged again with LRMs and the particle cannon this time bypassing the Goblin hitting the a Saurer-Bucher fire fighting truck which immediately blew up, the civilian vehicle wasn’t designed with such an attack in mind. “You ********!†Jake cursed continuing his charge hitting the tank again as he closed range bringing the gauss rifle up for a near point blank shot. Gauss rifles weren’t designed to be fired this close but today he didn’t care and watched the slug slam through several plates of armour as the slug hit it at supersonic speeds. He then kicked out with his right leg kicking through the Puma’s tank tread before spinning the Mech’s torso putting the retractable blade through its top armour. Internal exlosions were going off as Jake retracted the blade looking around, he realized in his rage that his convoy and both surviving lancemates had moved nearly off the battlefield downing three more Whispers of Blake units as they did forcing the rogue unit back. Jake took one look at the Saurer-Bucher before turning to join the other survivors “sorry guys, I owed you better, you saved my ass. I’ll save your planet, I promise you.†He said finally before following the other Chaos Irregulars. The Whispers of Blake were now on the backfoot, they weren’t beaten on Wallis but for the first time in this fight they weren’t on top of the pile.
While things turn on the side of the FWL on Wallis elsewhere in the nation Districts square off against each other in several systems as they blame each other for the blakes began by the former Word of Blake warriors. On several worlds line regiments of different districts fact of for the first time since the reformation of the Free Worlds League only for calmer heads to prevail and stand forces down before full blown hostilites erupt.
Mechfactory floor, Bay 4B
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd December 3113
For maybe the hundredth time since assuming a leadership role Scientist General Riko Danvers escorted Halfway Province Duke Robert Linius through the Wolf City showing him what the remains of Clan Mountain Wolf had created on the world. Recently they had added two new “Gallery Defenders†Clusters to their defence force which was mostly just Combat Vehicles supported by infantry. But today was a more important day for today they would be able to show the Lyran Commonwealth a new toy “designed and built†entirely on Gallery by his Wolves and ready to serve the Commonwealth or at least that’s what he would be telling this Lyran leader he didn’t need to know that they’d had help with it or where the design had originated.
“Allow me to present you the Kharon Heavy Cavalry BattleMech.†He said showing the Duke the new humanoid BattleMech. “With enough speed to out maneuver any assault Mech on the field it will provide mobility for your forces.†He promised the Mech could reach 86kph nothing too special for a heavy Clan Mech but far more than any assault Mech could reach. “Two Extended Range Large Lasers provide the reach to strike enemy units are mounted on the right side replacing most of the right arm and shoulder assemblies.†He said pointing out the two large laser weapons that dominated that side of the Mech. “A heavy-duty gyroscope provides additional stability to balance out these weapons†he explained seeing the duke look at the weapons the heavier Gyro also hid some of the electronics that his scientists had imbedded in the Endo Steel Hull. “Two long range missile launchers on the left side complement the lasers and allow for indirect bombardment, minefield laying and other support missions. While a medium pulse laser, a targeting computer and ECM suite round out the Mech’s offensive and defensive capabilities.†He explained
“So, it’s a Mad Cat in a hull five tons lighter?â€
“Not quiteâ€
“But still a capable heavy model we can well to the Lyran military?â€
“Yes, WE can†Danvers said “other than the Gyro the technology involved is Clan based. However, we can also accommodate Inner Sphere technologies that are desired.â€
“Excellent work Danvers, I can see why we allowed you to stay here. I want a Kharon in my personal guard.†The Duke said quite enjoying the idea of having a new Mech to share with the Commonwealth.
“You can have this oneâ€
“Excellent does it come in red?â€
“I’m sure our techs can paint one in that colour†Riko Danvers said looking at the Lyran wishing he could do something else with the Kharon which would make a red colour mainly out of the Duke at the moment. The man was a necessary evil for his Mountain Wolves but he’d use him for as long as he’d need him and having one of his Mechs as part of the planetary guard wouldn’t hurt.
“Excellent, excellent what else do you have for me?â€
“We have housed another four hundred-and-twenty refugees in sector three.â€
“Something interesting Danvers, you handle these new people well I’m happy for you to educate them and put them to work.†Duke Robert Linius said as they walked deeper into the facility.
-
3114
Launching Ceremony,
LCS Iron Fist (Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser), Tharkad Orbit
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd January 3114
Doctor Michael Queen of Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad strode onto the gravity deck of the WarShip LCS Iron Fist waiting for him were a group of people including Lyran leader Archon Jessica Steiner. “Thank you for waiting†he said as he approached “ladies and gentlemen today Lockheed/CBM are happy to announce that we have a new vessel for the use of the military and with your permission the greater market.†He said for years the company had produced Sub-compact cored WarShips meaning they were producing the smallest jump capable vessels in space the Lyran Commonwealth had benefited greatly from the Peter-class Scout and the Isis-class Carrier Scout vessels and now their allies in the SLDF and Federated Suns were also benifitting through the SLDF alliance it was expected that other nations would also benefit. He raised a small communicator to his mouth “DropShips release vessel†he said commanding the two modified Behemoth-class DropShips to disengage. Both vessels were docked together in the “nose-on†position, both had been extensively modified turning them into Lockheed/CBM’s shipyard facility capable of facilitating the construction of the tiny WarShips the company specialized in. This allowed them to move the facility around the Tharkad system, and beyond if they desired, to keep their work as secret as possible. On the monitors the two huge DropShips detached from each other to reveal a slender, almost sharklike vessel within.
“Designed like other vessels that Lockheed has produced to disappear into commercial DropShip traffic the end profit can be built to any hull shape you desire. Twenty-five thousand tons in weight it is designed with stealth and speed in mind. Its weapons are a mix of long range missiles, gauss rifles, particle cannons and lasers while Anti-missile systems protect the craft. Two small craft can also be carried these can be armed or they can supplement the vessel’s primary mission which is Diplomacy and spy craft I give you the Nondi-class Executive Transport.†He said naming the small vessel as it lit up its sub-light engines and began to turn gracefully away from the two Behemoth-class vessels.
“Which is? The Jade Falcons last week invaded and captured Krievci placing them a single jump from Coventry and you give us a pleasure yacht?†Admiral Szabo Lilla asked angrily she stood off to the side of Archon Jessica Steiner and had served with her previously on other ships before taking command of the ship they were standing on.
“Yes, Admiral we do, you say they are in striking distance of Coventry?†Dr Queen asked but did not wait for an answer “I counter by saying that they were already in range. A Lithium Fusion Engine would allow them to bypass any defences that we have and strike at any world of their choosing. The Nondi will not win you a war Admiral but it could be instrumental in stopping one from starting, send this world to Sudeten, to Marik, to Luthien or any other world that could be a threat to us it will blend into the traffic over that would and allow you to speak directly to the people in charge.â€
“We thank you Doctor, we are sure that this vessel will complete all missions we give it.†Archon Jessica Steiner said herself not sure what the vessel would be used for but deciding not to make a scene.
“Archon, with your permission we would also like to sell this vessel on the open market to civilans and to other nations.†Doctor Queen decided to push his luck, already there had been interest from the large companies of the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Without any weaponry you may sell the hull to Lyran citizens. The High Command will decide on whether this ship will be sold to other nations.†The Archon said making a concession to the company beyond the Nondi herself the Archon didn’t see much need for the Lyran nation to purchase more of the vessel but if Lockheed/CBM wished to produce more for the Lyran people she wouldn’t stop them.
Clan Hall, Jaguar’s Den
Twin Sons, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
12th January 3114
“I am proud of what we have accomplished†Khan Petra Furey said to the leaders of the Smoke Jaguars on Twin Sons. “We have taken control over the military of the District of Lesnovo and we have done so with the full support of the people and the government of this region. We have rebuilt the dead Clan by our own standards.†She said happy with their accomplisments the new Smoke Jaguars were not the same people as before, there was no way to compare the two, some members of the Clan were survivors who had hidden in the periphery and on Twin Sons, others were former crewmen of the disgraced Snow Raven WarShip Spectre which was still hidden in the Lesnovo system, but for the most part the Clan was made up of people born and bred in the Free Worlds League who had come to them with dreams of future glory within those numbers was Petra herself the freeborn daughter of two former clansmen.
“Today we take the next step in the rebirth of this Clan, today our scientists have restarted the eugenics program and the use of Iron Wombs†she announced to her Clankin. The program would remain a secret to the peoples outwith the Smoke Jaguars but her clan was on the path to being truly reborn, just as her parents had dreamed though neither Michael or Sandra Furey would see the reborn Smoke Jaguars as both had passed away the year before. “Each member who has been completely inducted into our military will donate genetic material to this cause. We will be the Founders of this reborn Clan as members of the Exodus Fleet were founders of the original Clans.â€
SLS Fletcher (Peter-class Scout), Bridge
Blair Atoll, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
18th January 3114
Their mission had been to act as a civilian freighter DropShip and disappear into the traffic over the important Hell’s Horses trade world of Blair Atoll conducting as much intelligence as they could while inserting a special forces team. Judd Thompson stared at the screen, which showed the rear of the SLS Fletcher and the space behind the vessel, and knew their mission had failed as it showed their mission had failed as pursuing them was flat boxy form of a Halcyon-class Cruiser of Clan Hell’s Horses. “Right boys and girls, they are onto us clear the memory banks and then make your way to your escape pods.†He commanded knowing fine that their scout ship had no chance of out running a Clan Cruiser and its support craft, and they couldn’t be boarded.
“You know the orders make your way into the civilian population find work, blend in and wait the Intelligence Corps will find you.†He said making sure that his voice was reaching all the decks he had sixty-one people onboard and wanted to make sure they all got a fair chance or escape, each of them had been given alternate Clan identities but the chances of any of them escaping were slim. As he spoke there was flashes of light from the Cruiser as its forward cannons fired exploding near the scoutship but not hitting it with that he knew that they intended to try and capture them. “You’ve done well people, but today is not our day.†He said cutting the all deck transmission “helm, put our nose in the atmosphere when they hit us, I want to make sure they knock us down and finish us then to the escape pod.†He said the helm officer looked back at him and nodded modifying their flight path then leaving his station as escape pods began to be jettisoned from further along the ship each of them entering the atmosphere immediately it would be a bumpy ride but assuming their parachutes activated correctly the crewmen would get to the ground.
As more naval autocannon fire exploded near them buffeting the Fletcher with debris as its nose dipped into the atmosphere, the five thousand-five-hundred-ton vessel was not designed for atmospheric flight and immediately its hull began to show the stresses of re-entry. “Launch bay, take your people in the shuttle and go, I won’t be making it down there†he said as one of the autocannon rounds exploded nearly on the vessel’s hull the shock wave ripping a huge chunk out of the rear of the ship the Peter-class began to waver and lose control under the stress of the impact. “GO NOW!†He commanded from the underside of the ship a Hell’s Horses built Pelican-class Small craft dropped from the rear of the ship diving straight into the atmosphere from behind it two diamond shaped Aretes Interceptors sped past the pursuing Halcyon and dived behind the small craft firing their particle cannons and lasers, there was little hope the Pelican would survive to a controlled landing. Thompson activated the emergency HPG transmitter, sending the Flecher’s distress signal, before activating his command chair’s own eject system as well as regular escape pods which held multiple persons the Peter-class had been fitted with individual escape pods for certain positions. As the system activated the Captain’s chair was wrapped in foam made from a similar material as HarJel while Thompson raised a mask to his face. “I hate these ****** things†he cursed as his face was covered moments later his entire command chair was ejected from the ship just before another naval autocannon round tore through the ship gutting the SLS Fletcher. Debris of the small ship began to fall into the atmosphere burning up as it entered the atmosphere.
---
The screens came up in the briefing room revealing a small room with almost two dozen observers who had been taking notes as they watched the broadcast. “Ladies and gentlemen, that was the last broadcast from the SLS Fletcher we believe some of the crew survived to the surface. You are the closest extraction and recovery team. You’re going to Blair Atoll which is two jumps from our present location. You will board this ship†he said showing a tiny aerodyne civilian DropShip with a thin hull and a pair of engine nacelles on the end of short wings on the holoimager “this is Freighter 42†he said “I know an imaginative title for a ship as common as the Firefly but it’s a design in common usage by the Horses as a Civilian transport as it is small and carries no weapons. There is one of these vessels on its way to our next jump-point we will board it and commandeer it from its crew before using it to insert your team onto Blair Atoll. You will be inserted onto the planet as two couples transferring between worlds for work.†He said each of them looked at each other silently realizing what that meant, each of them had seen the other naked before it was part of their line of work.
“Rules of engagement on planet?â€
“Assess the Fletcher’s crash site and if necessary, ensure its destruction should there be anything left, ensure the Fletcher’s commander’s personally held information does not fall into enemy hands and extract any survivors including the commander if applicable.†He said immediately they recognized that the lives of the crew and of the commander were secondary to the intelligence.
“Sir, can we know the reason…†one of them asked recovering other members of the SLDF was important but normally downed crewmen were expected to slip into the population and await extraction.
“In your documents packs†he said immediately everyone flicked through the pages and found what he meant “is all the information you may need. “Ladies and gentlemen, that is the face of the commander of the all Intelligence Operations in the Hell’s Horses OZ Major-General Judd Thompson code name Bat-22. Why he was on that ship we don’t know but we know that the Watch know his identify. The information he holds up here†he said tapping the side of his head “is information we can’t let the Clans have understood?â€
“Yes, sir†the Hunt for Bat-22 was on.
Ground battle
Wallis, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
22nd January 3114
Jake Chowla pushed his captured OmniMech through the ruined city of Brimal against the Whispers of Blake he’d learned over the last few weeks that the Mech was named as a Deva and had been produced for the Whispers by the Word of Blake on Gibson before their destruction. As a result, he’d learned he could reconfigure the Mech as he desired and replacing damaged equipment was easy compared to his previous BattleMechs.
Darting left and right he pursued a Whispers of Blake Buccaneer BattleMech as he helped hunt down the last renegade Blakist. It had been a long battle but finally the Chaos Irregulars and the local milita forces were getting their revenge on the renegade Clansmen. “Aletha go left!†He ordered the other MechWarrior that was with him Aletha had recovered from her ordeal as a prisoner of the Whispers and was now piloting a Blade BattleMech which had been provided by the Free Worlds League Jake had been determined that the Irregulars would remain independent but his Co-Commander Aerial Peregrine-Simmson had said they needed the weapons and signed a deal with the militia. Aletha, Jake’s wife, aimed her Blade’s autocannon ahead of the Buccaneer and fired a burst of
fire into it ripping the leg off throwing the Mech into a cartwheel as it crashed across the ground away from them.
“Now that’s what I’m taking about†she said the Blade wasn’t her Mongoose, it hadn’t been in her family for generations, but it packed a punch with the rotary autocannon and lasers.
“Let’s get another one†Jake said searching for another target.
“All forces SCATTER! SCATTER! SCATTER!†Aeriel suddenly screamed over the radio but it was too late already the first orbital fire was hitting the ruined City. Unbeknownst to the Irregulars or anyone else on the planet within the last few days a Whispers of Blake special forces unit had struck Regulus killing Prince Lester Cameron-Jones and his first-born child Anita and wiping out the majority of the Elite First Cameron-Jones Guard Regiment. Now in orbit over the planet a WarShip carrying Lester’s fathers name Prince Titus Cameron-Jones was bombarding every remaining Whispers of Blake position.
“Aletha RUN!†Jake screamed already her Blade was running and Jake turned to follow he was perhaps a few hundred metres behind her already as the Blade ran faster than his heavier Mech. “Don’t slow down, they won’t be able to make out designs from where they are but we’re heading in the right direction not to be a target. We’re going…†he never finished the sentence from above the gunners on the RS Prince Titus Cameron-Jones were firing at anything that moved they didn’t care what direction targets were heading in only where friendly bases were and where potential enemies were the entire city of Brimal was forfeit. As Jake’s Deva got up to speed, he didn’t even see the naval autocannon rounds coming as they slammed down into the ground right in front of Aletha’s speeding Blade. The small thirty-five-ton BattleMech was initially consumed in fire and then the shock wave hit picking the BattleMech up and throwing it like a child would a rag-doll. Jake could do nothing as he watched his wife’s Mech fly through the air parts of the BattleMech separating from the main body of the Mech as it flew. “ALETHA!†Jake screamed as his own Mech was knocked to the ground by the following shock waves debris fell off nearby buildings pinning his Mech even as his sensors showed the Blade come to rest and more naval autocannon rounds impacting in the area around it more landed near Jake’s Mech but the debris protected him from most of the hits unfortunately his wife had no such protection. The Deva’s damaged but functional sensor suite registered a critical failure in the Blade’s fusion engine shielding and he knew the truth, the cold fact that a computer would tell you without compassion or thought, his wife was dead killed at the hands of the very people they were contracted to help.
Spaceport
Blair Atoll, Hell’s Horses OZ
26th January 3114
It had taken the four-person team more than a week to get to Blair Atoll and now they were making their way through customs on the world. As they moved through the area each of them noted the number of unarmoured guards in the spaceport each armed with the Horses newest personal weapon the ballistic assault rifle HAR-201.
“Security’s tight†Ned Glasberg said “the Flecher’s crash has them on edge.†He said as they saw troopers search through visitor’s baggage. The two men were in the queue like everyone else but didn’t react to what they were seeing, it wasn’t the Clan civilian castes way.
“We keep going, less we’re suspicious the better.†His partner said off to the side while they were a couple, they both knew that public signs of affection would gain the attention of the Horses guards. They both approached separate booths the two customs officials glanced at each other and then at the two men before stamping their passes. Further behind in the queue the other two in their team were waiting for their time they were under the cover as a pair of scientists. They made their way through the process just the same passing themselves off as man and wife and were quickly processed.
Outside the spaceport customs office the two men headed to the first vehicle a Praire Schooner Land Train which had been converted into a passenger transport. While the two passing as scientists were led to a Sky Eye News Helicopter which was being used by the Horses as an executive transport for their scientists. They would meet up when it was appropriate.
---
Three hours later Glasberg and his partner Wesley Blood were at a recreational park trying to pass themselves off as civilians enjoying their downtime before being given their first job by their Clan. In the field other people exercised and played games with balls it was a standard day on Blair Atoll. Above the field the Sky Eye News Helicopter they’d seen earlier flew over the field. The aircraft had two rotors on the top one above the other rotating in opposite directions while a pusher propeller at the back moving the chopper forwards.
“I didn’t expect them to arrive with that†Glasberg said watching as the craft circled the field before landing. The doors were opened as it landed and the two of them crossed the tarmac boarding the aircraft “nice to see you guys, nice ride†he said seeing Miia Lahtinen in the pilot seat and Liam Turton in the side seat. In the back of the aircraft he noticed equipment was stacked up “you guys been shopping?â€
“Just stuff that was left laying around the helo was left by the transfer pilot, I think he’s done for the day, we’ll have to ditch it in the next couple of hours or security services will clock on but it’ll get us where we’re going.†Miia said cheerfully from the front as she brought the aircraft up into the air. “The cases were exactly where we expected them†she said as Glasberg began looking over the equipment.
“This is Clan stuff?†Blood said seeing a Horse Gatling Gun X99 in one of the boxes it was a large multi-barreled weapon capable of chewing through armoured targets, much more than they should need.
“Affirmative, our contact did their job.†Turton said “we’re en route to the crash site, there’s not much left from what we’ve heard.â€
“And Bat-22?â€
“In the wind if he survived.â€
“Any other crewmen made contact?â€
“Negative if any survived, they've likely done what they are supposed to do gone to ground and are awaiting extract in time, we're the ones off schedule.†Miia said “we heard a news report stating that Hell’s Horses security forces had secured the Pelican’s crash site no survivors were found.†She explaining dampening the mood significantly “no news on any of the escape pods or on Batt-22â€
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Deep in the forests Judd Thompson moved slowly through the undergrowth as the rain began to get heavier and heavier. Each step was a careful one as he knew he wasn’t completely alone the Horses had been on his trail almost since he had landed. He bent down slightly leaving a grenade attached to a wire before heading deeper into the forests remaining still watching his trap within thirty minutes a squad of seven Hell’s Horses troopers began moving through the area one of the struck the tripwire he’d left causing an explosion immediately killing four of the troopers in the confusion Thompson struck with another grenade and his KA-23 Subgun cutting down the remaining troopers in explosions and a hair of bullets. He ran down through the undergrowth firing the remaining Subgun ammo into the Hell’s Horses troops ensuring they were dead before gathering up a Gauss Sub-Machine Gun from one of the troopers and ammunition from the rest. He also grabbed several Clan Meals-Read-to-Eat (MREs) and a radio to track enemy movements and finally Assault Grenade Launcher which had been carried by the squad’s heavy trooper it only had a single magazine of ten Dual Purpose High Explosive grenades but that could make a massive difference in the scope of things. “Thanks boys†he said looking down at the dead bodies before darting off into the undergrowth he’d served in the SLDF for more than thirty years he wasn’t going to go down without a fight.
SLS Fletcher Crashsite
Blair Atoll, Hell’s Horses OZ
26th January 3114
Flying quickly towards the crashsite Blood and Glasberg mounted the gatling gun onto a bracket attached to the side door of the Sky Eye giving them some firepower should they need it. “I thought we were giving this thing back?†Miia complained.
“Well it’s one of their guns, I’m sure they won’t mind too much†Blood suggested.
“This is a civie aircraft they don’t want to give them guns.â€
“It’ll be a nice surprise for them.†Blood said but Miia didn’t look happy as the aircraft continued to fly forwards towards their target.
The Sky Eye helicopter was soon over the crash site of the SLS Fletcher, there was very little left of the small ship, surprisingly there were few Hell’s Horses at the site either. “Not much chance of much surviving onboard that.†Miia said glancing back “what do you think?â€
“Fly over the target we’re dropping three boxes on it.†Glasberg said as the aircraft continued to move forwards. As it flew over the crash site Glasberg and Blood threw three boxes of high explosive out the side of the ship. The packages fell slowly from the aircraft onto the wreckage exploding on contact covering the ground in high explosive fire destroying any data that still remained there. “Keep flying broadcast on the emergency channel, see if any of our people are listening.†He suggested Miia nodded
---
Several kilometres from where the Fletcher had crashed Judd Thompson saw the explosion but didn’t know the reason for it. He’d intentionally avoided what was left of his ship, there was nothing there for him. As he moved through the undergrowth, he saw a path had been cut through the woods creating a road for the Horses to keep their people supplied part the way along the path was a small single story checkpoint station. Slipping his Gauss SMG to his back he instead drew out the grenade launcher aiming it at the checkpoint he saw a single Hell’s Horses trooper coming out and thought about taking the shot. Thompson had a second thought for a moment thinking about the flare he’d seen from the exploding Fletcher and decided that the checkpoint, while a smaller explosion would likely cause too much trouble for him. Instead he turned to the right and continued into the forest.
For what felt like hours Thompson moved through the undergrowth watching his back as he moved but no-one was following him darkness quickly began to envelop him as the rain returned once again. Suddenly out of what seemed to be nowhere a structure appeared in the darkness there was no lighting on but it appeared sound. Moving around the building he couldn’t see any sign that the place had been occupied anytime recently. He moved quickly up to the building putting his boot onto the door kicking open the door he wasn’t a young man anymore but he still knew how to force open a door. Entering through the door, he quickly scanned the room inside and found a comfortable hunting cabin which obviously hadn’t been lived in some time. Turning he pushed the door closed securing it as best he could with its broken lock he’d stay tonight and move on in the morning once his clothing was dry. Tonight, he’d try to get the rest he’d need to continue to avoid Hell’s Horses patrols.
---
As night had closed in the crew of the Sky Eye had turned to their night vision goggles as their aircraft battled through the worsening weather. “I’ve got something, SLDF troops engaging Horse units to the east three kilometres distant.†Turton said glancing up from the radio set
“Take us over their Miia low and fast†Glasberg said glancing at Blood “you fitted it get on the gun.†He said as the aircraft began to bank tightly to the right speeding up as it turned and dived. “Miia bring us over their position, we’ll see what we can see on the first pass†he ordered opening the side door a gust of wing blew into the aircraft along with plenty rain water.
Leaning out the door Glasberg and Blood peered through their night vision googles and spotted the contacts as they approached. On the goggles the four SLDF crewmen were easily identifiable as their uniforms had special reflective materials woven into them for exactly this sort of mission beyond their position were at least seven Hell’s Horses contacts who were getting closer to them. “We’ve got seven enemy contacts to deal with Turton left door cover, we’ll take right, Miia I need you to get us into a decent firing position but keep us moving when I change magazines bring Liam into the fight.†He said she nodded and slowed the aircraft’s speed as Liam Turton climbed over the seat and opened the other door raising his rifle to peer out the door.
“Alright boys making the turn†she said bringing the nose of the aircraft around to the left but continuing to move the aircraft along its same path. As she did, she tipped the aircraft’s right side down slightly. Neither Glasberg or Blood needed any encouragement immediately Blood opened fire with the Gatling gun which spun rapidly throwing out hundreds of deadly bullets that ripped through the undergrowth below. Ned Glasberg was more refined with his shots aiming his rifle from the shoulder he peered through the scope taking pot shots at targets missed by Blood’s indiscriminate fire.
“Over the target Liam get ready!†Glasberg warned as he began switching magazines from the other door Liam immediately began firing down on the targets below a each of them heard bullet’s hit the underside of the aircraft.
“We’re taking damage hold on!†Miia called out she kicked in the aircraft’s engines bringing the aircraft out of the firing line turning tightly through the night’s sky she turned the nose away from targets again allowing Glasberg and Blood another strafing run this time each of them gunned down members of the chasing Hell’s Horses. “Great jobâ€
“Take us over them again†Glasberg ordered “make them count†he ordered the three nodded and this time aimed for the fallen troopers making sure they were dead. “Miia take us down, you and Turton are taking the survivors back to civilisation and will find them a way to get home.†He said looking at Wesley Blood “grab provisions and ammo, we’re going for a hike†he said as the helicopter came down to land on the ground, they shouted at the SLDF crewmen to approach as they did Glasberg and Blood hopped out onto the ground grabbing their personal weaponry. “You two, get these people to safety, find them lives in one of the settlements where they can hunker-down and wait for extraction, then join us when you can. We’re going to find Thompson and kill whatever else gets in our way.†He said to his other team members as the crewmen arrived “the cavalry arrives! You guys are safe now!†Glasberg said to them as they climbed onboard, “you two take care of them and of yourselves.†He said as the chopper took off again climbing into the skies. “Let’s move, we need to be a few kilometres from here before that squad’s CO comes looking for them.â€
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New ship and tech for AU
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3910.0 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3910.0)
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Interesting concept
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Interesting concept
Thanks I've attached the picture I made to illustrate it too now, forgot before
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Next bit edited with a bit from James Tanaga which I missed this morning
River Crimond
Blair Atoll, Hell’s Horses OZ
1st February 3114
Judd Thompson hid in the undergrowth watching as the large Hell’s Horses controlled freighter moved down the river past his position, he had come to the river thinking that it would give him a source of water and make it easy for rescue teams to track him. All of the SLDF flight crews had been trained to seek out water as a way of getting help. It was a risk he knew it but he didn’t have much of a choice he couldn’t trust the locals to continue to help him like Jeremiah Miller had. Unfortunately, a river like the Crimond, which was a trade river, was impossible for Thompson to cross without a boat which kind of left him boxed in. Now less than three hundred metres from him a three-hundred-metre-long freighter and barge combo were moving slowly down the river and he was stuck watching them hoping none of the crew had heat vision goggles to see him. He kept his weapons close to him ready to defend himself if need be but couldn’t do much else.
As the ship passed, he saw dozens of other boats passing in both directions, perhaps coming this way had been a mistake he’d come across too much civilization. As he watched the freighter Thompson heard a click behind him it was unmistakably a weapon hammer clicking into place. “Drop your weapons and do not move, you are under arrest.â€
---
Glasberg and Blood had re-joined Miia and Thurton on the Freedom 900 and were travelling down the river trying to keep a low profile with the local traffic and Hell’s Horses patrols they had been passed by several Clan VTOLs that morning and not one of the aircraft had paid them any attention but they knew that it couldn’t continue by now the Sky Eye would have been found and the Hell’s Horses would know there was a hostile team on planet.
As they passed a massive Avalonmax-class Freighter and barge they observed a lot of commotion on the riverbank as a small boat approached a ground team from the Freighter. In between them they saw a single man in cuffs. “Shit†Glasberg cursed glancing out of the Freedom 900 “Miia hold your course, keep your heads down boys we can’t do anything right now.†He ordered as the Hovercraft sped past the scene.
“Boss, if they get him on that freighter Thompson’s on his way to Horse interrogation. I can hit him from here.†Blood said checking the range as they continued down the river.
“No†Glasberg ordered “hold the course†he said “we’ll swing around in a few kilometres. And hit them tonight.â€
“What if they airlift him out?â€
“It’ll have to be a damned good pilot to land on that damned thing no helipad on that model of Avalonmax. Thurton, we need an exit strategy for after we lift him out, send a message to the extraction boys we’ll be coming in hot tonight or tomorrow morning they need to be ready for lift.â€
“And hope the hell that Halcyon isn’t still in orbit.â€
“One problem at a time.â€
---
The laugh could be heard all around the camp as Star Colonel Vandermice Lassenerra received the news that an insurgent had been captured on the River Crimond and his picture was sent to him. He recognised the man immediately “and to think I deployed an entire Cluster to track you down. If I’d known it was a prize such as you, I’d had deployed an entire damned Galaxy!†Lassenarra commented “all I had to do is wait for you to stumble across a Solhama force on a freighter. He laughed again finding the whole situation amusing. His people had found a prize worthy of words in the Remembrance and a prize that may get him a posting to a world worthy of his name and abilities. He immediately called for air support to be sent to escort the freighter into port.
---
Hours later Glasberg and his team approached the Avalonmax using minimal thrust from their engine sneaking up on the huge ship. Despite its size they knew the crew complement would be only between twenty and thirty the crew weren’t a great threat it was the additional security the Hell’s Horses had brought with them that would be the issue. While the corridors of the civilian freighter would make it impossible for the Horses to use Battle Armour onboard the ship, they could still cram dozens of infantry soldiers onboard. Each of them was armed with a Horse Assault Rifle-201, or HAR-201, because they were on a Horse planet ammunition for the weapons should be plentiful. “We keep moving take down anything that we come across that isn’t Thompson.†Glasberg briefed them finally as Miia Lahtinen brought them in closer time was of the essence Wesley Blood fired grappling hooks onto the back of the ship and they quickly made their way onboard. “Miia, Wes take out the bridge sweep the corridors as you go each room.†He ordered they nodded knowing their orders. “We’re going through the ship until we find Thompson he said to Liam Thurton.†Who nodded.
What followed was ten minutes of utter carnage as the four special operations operators made their way through the freighter shooting anything that moved. Some of the crew were likely innocent of the Hell’s Horses desires but the four operators were not taking any chances Blair Atoll was in the heart of Clan territory they’d take no chances with the people they were coming across. Moving from room to room the troopers eliminated everyone in their path with heavy automatic weapons fire. Finally, they reached the room that a badly beaten Judd Thompson was being held in. “One, Three, target secured status!†Glasberg panted as Thurton released the beaten General. “Three, status.â€
“We’re both injured but mobile to extraction point, bridge is disabled.†She said gasping for breath Glasberg didn’t like the sound of that but he’d see how they were when they got back together.
“You need to move your ass sir; we’re getting out of here hold on to me you step where I step.†He said Thompson nodded placing a hand on Glasberg’s shoulder “MOVING!†He called out with Thompson forming the centre the threesome moved back through the ship picking their way through the bodies as they went Thompson picked up a sidearm.
Back on the rear deck of the ship they found Miia Lahtinen and Wesley Blood waiting for them blood streamed from Miia’s left shoulder while Wesley Blood appeared to have a thigh and hand injury. Glasberg looked at him questionably “got into a knife fight with an ex-Elemental†he explained Blood himself was a big man but an “exâ€-Elemental was still likely a huge prospect. “She came of worse, I’m good to go.â€
“Good back to the Freedom†Glasberg said the five of them headed to the ropes keeping their weapons ready for action as suddenly there was a roar overhead and a Durga Attack Helicopter buzzed the freighter flying its length. “DOWN!†Glasberg shouted seeing the twenty-five-ton craft begin to turn. It was a fast-agile aircraft with coaxial blades above the craft a single rear stabilizing tail it was armed with a mix of pulse lasers and long-range missiles and could keep pace with most hovercraft. “Ideas, because that thing will burn us with lasers and missiles if we try take off on the hovercraft.â€
“Cheap RPG†Liam Thurton said raising his HAR-201 which he’d fitted a grenade launcher to “I just need him to come close†he said dropping his backpack “you guys get ready to drop, I’ll drop them.†He said “extract when you get onto the hover, I’ll get out the slow way†he promised them “take care.†He then turned without another word and began to head along the ship as the Durga began to approach again flying down the left side of the Avalonmax its chin turret nose chin turret turned covering the ship.
“They are looking for crewmen.†Miia Lahtinen said “they’re going to know something’s not right.â€
“He only needs one right moment, Com’on Liam†Blood whispered as he did Liam Thurton suddenly popped up from his point halfway along the freighter’s length and fired the grenade launcher directly at the twin top rotors on the Durga. The armour-piercing round exploded between the two rotors shattering the linkages there causing the aircraft to stutter in the air as Liam opened fire with a stream of assault rifle fire on the cockpit armour. Because of the height of the aircraft it drifted down and hit the water heavily. “Yes, well done son!†Blood shouted as behind him Miia had lowered herself onto the Hovercraft and Thompson was on his way as Blood turned back towards them several troopers appeared from the far side of the ship and opened fire on Liam Thurton with at least one shot hitting him in the shoulder the trooper turned back towards them and returned fire but another shot hit him knocking him off balance and over the side of the ship. “You…†Blood cursed stepping towards the Horse troopers.
“No! We go and we go now!†Glasberg ordered him “Liam’s off the boat I hope to hell he made it but even if he didn’t, we don’t help him by dying now. Go!†He ordered. Soon after the Freedom 900 took off from the rear of the freighter leaving it and the burning VTOL. House later they arrived at the waiting Pallas Transport Shuttle which had been acquired by another SLDF Team for extraction operation. The two-hundred-ton twin winged long bodied Pallas was built by the Hell’s Horses and made for the perfect extraction aircraft able to lift into space and join regular Hell’s Horses space traffic. They were soon off the surface of Blair Atoll and were heading into space, they’d soon receive a signal from a friendly JumpShip or WarShip which would extract the team from the system, they weren’t out of the woods yet but they’d done their job.
Onboard the Pallas Thompson approached Glasberg, Miia and Wesley Blood were both receiving medical attention, Liam Thurton was god knows where but Jed Glasberg had gotten out with barely a scratch. “Thank you for the rescue…â€
“Glasberg sir†he said identifying himself his rank didn’t matter.
“I’m sorry for your man, he was very brave.â€
“It’s the job sir†Glasberg said “your crew knew that too, sir, we picked up a few of them they’ll work their way out of Clan space the same way Liam will.†He said confidently
“I hope they all make it.â€
“It’s the job, sir†Glasberg repeated rolling over into his bunk he’d rescued the General it didn’t mean he needed to like him his team had suffered on this op, they’d return to friendly space and get ready for the next op. “It’s the job†Glasberg mused as he drifted off to sleep.
Clan Council Chambers
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Core Territroy, Nova Cat’s Den
8th February 3114
Khan Canin Rosse had been summonded to the Clan Council of Clan Nova Cat on New Barcella following questions regarding his leadership the seventy-six-year-old leader now stood in front of his Clankin while the challenger Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux held the floor. “Under Khan Rosse’s leadership we have flourished here.†She said flattering him “but we cannot continue to remain in isolation forever. And now to hear that one of our JumpShips carrying the Forty-eighth Nova Cat Spirit Cluster was lost trying to enter the Pirate Star Cluster, these people are below us a nuisance why are we wasting resources chasing them down is it because Khan Rosse is afraid to take our fight to the true enemy the Federated Suns?†She challenged him turning towards him on his final word she was young, smart and beautiful tall athletic with long blonde hair Khan Rosse could admit it after these years without his wife that he found her beautiful but she was also a Trueborn warrior and had gone on the record several times that she hated what Khan Rosse had done with his Spheroid born wife. She was of a new generation of Clan Nova Cat warriors and they agitated under Clan Nova Cat’s self-imposed isolation.
“They have been a constant nuisance to our territory, they need to be dealt with. The Federated Suns, Taurian Concordat and Gaenir Collective have avoided all of our territorial systems. The pirates continuously raid.â€
“And our units deal with them, or our WarShips blow them from space, I have killed many.†She said “Khan Rosse, you have led the Nova Cat Clan for decades you have done what many others could not done and secured our Clan for decades to come. But we cannot remain here and watch while the rest of the Inner Sphere continues without us. Other Clans close in on the goal of being ilClan, we are as powerful, we should be there too.â€
“The Wolves descended on the Inner Sphere using a trick to close on Terra, the Bears and Falcons both benefit from their initial invasion corridors positions. Unlike those Clans we do not have a shattered nation between us and Terra we have one of the most powerful nations between us.â€
“We should not be afraid of the Federated Suns, we showed the Taurians what we are capable of even facing their nuclear fire.†Leroux taunted which caused Rosse to laugh.
“The Taurian Concordat were nothing compared to the Federated Suns, the size of their nation alone should be respected. I am not afraid of the Federated Suns, if this is the will of this Clan Council I will answer that call personally.†He said looking around for another challenger before finishing on his challenger who looked surprised but covered it with a smirk, she no doubt hoped it would end with his death. “Alexandria Leroux you will join the next Trial of Possession against the Federated Suns at the world of Minette, capital of the Minnete Combat Region. Intelligence suggests that it is currently defended by two Davion-class Destroyers which will give you ample opponents to show your skill.†Khan Rosse said Minnete had been a target he planned to attack for weeks but the timing had not been correct now Leroux had pushed the right button and the Nova Cats were heading to conflict.
---
An hour later there was a knock at Khan Canin Rosse’s office which was in the wing adjacent to the Clan Council Hall as he called for them to enter Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux entered “Star Admiral welcome.†He said rising from his chair.
“You gave in too easily today†she said marching into the room. “And volunteering to command this mission is risky.â€
“Aff, perhaps but they wanted a positive reaction not an explanation, I was not going to disappoint them.†He said stepping around his desk approaching her “our Clan needed your argument and you carried it well better than many who have tried. As for risk I’ve done it all before.â€
“You would know you have been around long enoughâ€
“Ooow, easy on the old jokes Nova Cats respect age remember†he chuckled pushing her lightly.
“Only push me is you mean it Khan†she warned him smirking as he stepped closer to her grasping her uniform as he did she didn’t stop him so he knew what would follow, he spun her lightly directing her towards the bedroom using his larger stronger frame releasing her with a more forceful push which brought an even larger smile from the Star Admiral as she opened her jacket zip. It was only coupling he knew this; she hated the idea of a proper relationship and he knew she opposed him on many polices but she also respected where he had taken the Clan and was a very able commander, she was a threat to his leadership, as the old saying went keep friends close and enemies closer.
Air battle
Vestallas, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate
13th February 3114
Throwing his damaged Huscarl OmniFighter to the left and to the right Commander Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron could not shake the Menquin Fighter that was now behind him. His squadron had been outgunned over Vestallas which had seen the WarShip SLS Immortal Spirit had been destroyed by the CCSS Wu Zetian, a Mandarinn-class Battle-cruiser, and now they were trying desperately to stop the Capellans reaching the ground but it was a losing battle. Two more plasma shots from the Menquin slammed into the rear of his Huscarl causing more trouble for his fighter’s systems. “This is Kincaid, I’m going down over Saint Paul, we have six DropShips landing in the vicinity of the city.†He called out as SRMs slammed into the rear of the fighter. “Repeat Kincaid punching out over Saint Paul, Capellans landing on Vestallas.†He called out as he pulled the ejection cords which almost immediately threw his command couch clear of the aircraft unfortunately as he did more missiles from the Menquin slammed into the downed aircraft the shockwave knocking his command chair into a spiral causing unconsciousness. The chair’s automatic sensors deployed its para-foil as he closed on the ground but without Jeremy’s input the chair slammed into a group of trees causing multiple injuries to the pilot before he came to a rest on the ground.
Over the next several hours the SLDF defenders of Vestallas repelled the Capellan Confederation forces with the SLS Freedom and an assault DropShip squadron driving off the Wu Zetian and ground forces belonging to the First Kittery Regimental Brigade “Stone’s Lament†commanded by the Kittery Prefecture’s leader Protector-General Devlin Stone. Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron was found by search and rescue teams and taken to Star League Medical Facilities for treatment. Throughout his time in the academy Kincaid had wanted to see action on behalf of the SLDF and the Capellans were ensuring that happened.
RCS Rim Collection (Warrior-class battlecarrier)
Erdvynn, Circinus Federation
14th February, 3114
Star Coomodore Brittney Carrol smirked as another of the dezgra Circinus Federation dropships was destroyed under the guns of the RCS Rim Collection. That left only one other Overlord dropship for her warship to contend with. “Guns, I want the last dropship taken out yesterday,†she ordered.
The Fire Mandrill Star Commodore half-listened, nodding in reply to the Rim Collection Freeborn Warrior manning the Weapons terminal confirmed her orders. The RCS Rim Collection was the newest Rim Collection warship in the Rim Collection Touman, a battlecarrier designed to contend with enemy battleships if necessary. And so far, it was giving quite a good accounting of itself, she noticed in approval, as the last of the Circinus Federation dropships was quickly destroyed under heavy fire from Naval Autocannons and Naval Lasers onboard the RCS Rim Collection. She knew it better be, for the Rim Collection had bribed Clan Sea Fox heavily; two partially-built Cassandra’s had been the price for that Clan’s heavy assistance in getting the Viborg Fleetyards running three years ahead of schedule. The Merchant Clan took possession of both vessels the day before Operation: Valentine commenced.
She turned her head to her Clan’s leader, Khan Natasha Faraday, who leaned against the bridge bulkhead. “Khan, the last of the dezgra dropships are destroyed. Your forces are clear to deploy,†she informed her.
“Good,†the Fire Mandrill Khan replied. “Let me know when we receive word from either SaKhan Albiev,†she added as she turned to leave the bridge.
“Will do, ovKhan, was Brittney’s simple answer. Turning around she glanced down at her command terminal, somewhat lost in thought as she reviewed the plan.
This entire operation against the Circinus Federation was designed to hit the former Erdvynn Province systems still held by the Circinus Federation with overwhelming power. While the RCS Rim Collection took Erdvynn with four clusters worth of warriors under Khan Faraday’s command, saKhan Stephanie Albiev led the RCS Firestorm and RCS Ash Storm and four more clusters to Yidtall; Galaxy Marshal Monica Able meanwhile had led the RCS Firebrand and RCS Hellstorm to Calvados alongside five more clusters.
Already, they had cleared the dezgra from both Erdvynn and Calvados orbits and now had begun landing in force on both worlds. If everything went according to plan, they and Yidtall would soon fall.
She knew, however, that was only part of the plan. To hit the three worlds like this, the Rim Collection had pulled nearly all their available warships. Should the CF Erinyes decided to take advantage, the forces the Rim Collection had only limited options to respond with.
Yet one of those options caused her to smirk.This entire operation was designed to draw out the dezgra CF Erinyes. If it did, the CF Erinyes would no longer be a factor in the war to come. If it didnt, the Rim Collection would still have their beachhead needed. Her thoughts returned back to her duties, though her smirk remained.
Two hours later, it was confirmed. The Rim Collection had achieved aerospace superiority across all three systems, but the Circinus Federation and their dezgra mercenary allies had pulled back into defensive positions, forestalling hopes for a quick victory by the Rim Collection.
Forty-first Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris
Independent Territory
22nd February 3114
During the annual Star League Games Championship on Solaris VII Solaris Games pilot Heather “Sureshot†Mills of the Galahad Stables is victorious beating all others in her Carronade BattleMech in front of over fourteen thousand spectators. The seventy-ton BattleMech built by StarCorps Industries was unstoppable with the pilot defeating all others with disabling shots from its Silver Bullet Gauss Rifle and kill shots delivered by its regular gauss rifle and laser.
At the same time as Heather Mills victory Michael Raymond of the Raymond’s Hussars registers his unit at the MRBC Hiring Hall on Galatea accepting a job for his reinforced battalion to support a high risk against Clan Wolf in support of the SLDF.
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Next bit with a significant bit from James Tanaga in the Rim Collection and Lyran Commonwealth and an introduction of a character from Wrangler's Thunder Road
Lower deck, Niops shipyards
Niops IV, Niops
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
1st March 3114
Deep inside the facility that Niops claimed was a shipyard the damage control team led by Abdullah Ababneh rushed as quickly as they could in their magnetic boots would carry them. The District of Lesnovo’s newest vessel was preparing to launch and the command centre had discovered a serious issue in one of the de-docking process that the damage control team needed to repair. As he made his way through the ex-Showden Mining Station Abdullah already knew what the issue would be something related to the fact that Niops had repurposed a pair of Showden-class Mining Stations and latched them together to create their “shipyard†Abdullah had come across dozens of these issues since he’d arrived from Astrokazsy looking for work and a better life for his family. “Move quickly people we need to sort this issue.†He said trying to motivate them.
“They should delay the damned launch!†One of the workers called back “an exploration ship isn’t exactly going to save our worlds from trouble.â€
“It’s not a call we can make, we must trust our leaders know what they are doing.†Abdullah replied trying to believe the words himself as they entered the are where control suggested there was a fault. “Spread out, find the source of the issue!†He commanded and the five-man team immediately got to work. “Command, this is DC-4, we are in position and assessing the situation.â€
“We need answers DC-4 make them quick and accurate.â€
“Affirmative†Abdullah confirmed cutting the link “we would do no less.†He said to himself beginning to work on his section looking for the fault. Unfortunately, he and the other workers quickly established what was wrong there was a cascade fault in the power management of this section which was slowly building towards an overload.
“Control, this is DC-4, we have established the origin of the fault. Generator Six is building towards a cascade failure which will obliterate this section of the station. We cannot stop it.â€
“DC-4, we need options other than watching a section of the station explode, you’re onsite work the problem.â€
“We are†he said “options people we need them any ideas.â€
“We get the frak out of here!†One of them suggested
“Won’t make a difference, the power in this section will spark throughout the corridor we just came down we’ll be fried.â€
“Shut all the bulkhead doors†another suggested “seal us in, vent the atmosphere and start a vent of all the local reactors.â€
“Ezra are you nuts that’ll flood this section with hard radiation, we’ll be turned to jelly by the heat!â€
“But the station will be saved from a serious explosion which could take the Spirit of Northumberland with us.†Ezra suggested “we will die if we try to run, we may as well make things count.â€
“Agreed†Abdullah said all of you seal your pressure suits and get into the airlock, it’s shielding will protect us from much of the radiation.†He said and opened a communication with the control room as his team headed into the airlock. Being in there was still probably a death’s sentence but it might give them another option. “Control, this is DC-4, you need to shut all bulkhead doors and seal this section from the other station. I would suggest also evacuation the sections directly adjacent as well before emergency shutting down and venting all local reactors into this section and the space away from the Spirit. My team will be EVA from the station within the next thirty-seconds†he said flicking a control locking them inside the airlock much to the horror of the other five men “they will need a pick up as soon as possible. I am remaining onsite to shutdown additional power relays to stop further damage.†He said cutting the link hearing his team inside the airlock shouting angrily at him for his sacrifice. “DC-4 assume explosive decompression protocol position now it’s your only hope!†He snapped “you have ten seconds, stay apart once you are away from the station and make sure your emergency locators are on transmit.†He said the team didn’t move but continued to complain “do it now!†He commanded external door opening in ten seconds†he said as the team began to move into crouched positions facing the doors. Elsewhere the station began to shut down sections of power and vent the reactors nearby. “Good luck†he said flicking the control which released all the air and his team into space, it was their best chance to get as far from the radiation as possible, their suits would protect them from the hazards of space for a short period of time. Abdullah then walked across the room and began to shut down the power circuits that would lead to the surface of the station stopping them from overloading would stop any additional hull breaches. His suit’s radiation metre began to register greater radiation levels bleeping louder and louder Abdullah tuned it out by saying a prayer as he did his final duty of the shipyard in trying to save as much as he could before hot radioactive plasma flooded the compartment consuming him.
Due to Abdullah Ababneh’s actions the station only suffered a single further hull breach and no-one was hurt by it. The reactors returned to save mode after expelling their excess plasma and dampening their power output. While Abdullah Abebneh had died protecting the station Niops newest Vengeance Pocket WarShip was able to collect up his team with minimal injuries taken to them. For his sacrifice Abdullah Ababneh’s name was given to the Vengeance which had recovered his team and would be assigned to the nation’s newest vessel the Endevour-class Spirit of Northumberland which had been captured from the Marian Hegemony and refurbished over Niops.
Erinyes (Modified Newgrange-class)
Viborg Asteroid Field
Viborg, Rim Collection
3rd March, 3114
Calvin McIntyre smirked, watching in satisfaction as the CF Erinyes continued its slow crawl deeper into the system, intent on destroying the heretical Rim Collection sole shipyards. Drone fighters and DropShips crewed by righteous believers of the Word of Blake and their noble Circinian allies escorted the behemoth WarShip like a swarm of bees protecting their sacred queen.
And like the swarm, the drone fighters and DropShips would soon enter the battle against the heretics and non-believers of the Rim Collection, he knew, Against the Word of Blake battleship and its escorts, the heretics could only defend their oh so vital shipyard with a mere transport and a small construction ship and what fighters and DropShips the system held.
“Something’s not right,†she heard his beloved murmur. He allowed his lone remaining eye to dart to her. She stood next to the acolyte manning the tactical station, annoyingly tapping the side loudly.
“What’s not right,†he asked, his eyes returning to his screen.
“The system’s defenses,†she replied, no, snarked, backed at him. He approved of her fiery spirit, though was careful not to show it in front of the others. She was not a righteous believer as he and the others were on the bridge, though her continued belief and loyalty to him was just as strong as their zealotry, he knew.
“They seem to be concentrated around the lone transport,†he supplied. “Though I wonder where they hid their construction ship,†he thought out loud. His eyes traced a Behemoth DropShip leaving the enemy transport and fleeing to the enormous station that served as the shipyard.
“It’s not that. It’s the size of their forces.â€
“Meager,†Mcintyre judged a second later. “All their forces are caught up in battles of fire and ash, too eager to free their brethren heretics,†he dismissed her concerns as the CF Erinyes and its swarm of escorts skirted the edge of the system’s asteroid belt. “They are too far to be part of this battle. Even if they left their battles immediately, they would be too little too late. And soon all in this system shall burn, as all heretics deserve.â€
His concerned beloved’s answer was cut off before it began from the acolyte beside her. “The Heretic’s transport and its escort just entered into range. Soon victory and thereafter, fire and ash!â€
“Fire and Ash!†he heard approvingly from the other members of the bridge crew as the CF Erinyes entered the fray. Ahead of the noble WarShip, the heretic WarShip and its meager escort lay, a final wall between the Erinyes and its target.
Moments later, his eyes squinted in annoyance as the bridge was slightly rocked by the first few volleys exchanged. The heretical WarShip’s weapon systems were surprisingly decent, he judged in disgust. He was soon proven correct.
“Moderate damage to our port dorsal batteries. Slight damage to that side’s maneuvering thrusters. Armor is holding, but getting red-lines across multiple segments,†the female acolyte manning Damage Control succinctly reported. “Recommend we turn to port so as to shield that side.â€
He shook his head, silently cursing, as the acolyte manning the Pilot station immediately changed their course. The CF Erinyes, the finest WarShip remaining to the believers in their righteous crusade, unfortunately still had battle damage they could not repair and the Heretics had found the Achilles Heel of the Erinyes.
Another minute passed as the mighty WarShip presented its starboard side to the enemy heretics’ vessel, all the while. Just as the Erinyes began its next volley, his eyes widened in disbelief at his screen. He heard his lover a half second later.
“Radiation burst directly behind us! Another ship! Behind us!â€
“Ship’s IFF reads the RCS Warrior! Battlenet confirms it matches same class that hit Erdvynn!†the acolyte beside her yelled out a moment later as Calvan paled in disbelief. Seconds later, the Erinyes began taking fire from recent arrival.
“Wepaons, fire the asteroid!†Calvan urgently yelled. “Helm, turn out about as soon as it leaves the mass driver!â€
As he listened to his bridge crew reply back, he could not help but look back at his screen in dread. The heretical WarShip he judged as at least comparable to the Erinyes in terms of weapons as multiple damage reports immediately came across his screen.
“New contacts! From the belt!†his lover yelled. “Damnit! they ‘re heading for our JumpShips!â€
“Comms, have our JumpShips jump out of system and into Steiner space. I doubt the Collection and their pet monkeys are stupid enough to jump across the border. And if they are, then all is well even if we die here!†ye yelled just before the bridge was rocked hard.
“A dozen or so assault fighters just broke through our fighter screen,†he heard his beloved’s voice report. “Having secondary gunners concentrate on the fighters-â€
He saw a bright explosion and then nothing.
Mechbay, The Fort
Ecol City, Thorin
Thorin EDZ, Star League Protectorate
4th March 3114
Morgan was clambering over his Shirke OmniMech which was in the SLDF Mechbay on Thorin. The Mech was still painted in its Ghost Bear camoflague and while he had been allowed to take it out several times on exercises with local forces, he still hadn’t been given any sort of assignment. On the ground below Marika Danko stood watching and waiting for him. Since his return to Thorin and his release from the Rasalhague Dominion she had been assigned to him as his debriefing from the Star League Intelligence Command they’d slowly but surely rekindled their previous relations. Suddenly there was commotion on the ground of the Mechbay Morgan manipulated the maintenance pully’s and he shot down quickly towards the ground grabbing a tech who was near Marika. “What is going on tech?†He demanded formally sometimes he still forgot his manners.
“MechWarrior there’s been an explosion near Fell’s Fort, a disused mine imploded somehow took a bunch of buildings down with it. There was a school group in the area, they are all missing!†The tech said rapidly “the Guard’s all over the damned place on exercise.†He explained
“Then I need you to get my Mech equipped to assist†he ordered the Tech who looked surprised “I can get there before any of the guard get back, if there are any cadets still in the Fort get them in the training Mechs they can come with me, we’ll use the Mechs to dig for the school group.†He suggested “do it now Tech.†He said the man nodded and ran off.
“You have no authority to make that order Morgan, be careful†Marika warned him.
“I do not care, if I can help, I will help.â€
“Good luck, I’m going to try and help muster more help, be careful†she repeated stepping up beside him kissing him passionately before rushing off. Morgan stood there for a moment gobsmacked since she’d shyed away from kissing him before despite their feelings for each other.
Within the hour Morgan was in his BattleMech with a pair of Chameleons and at the disused mine between the three of them they began digging through the rocks supporting the ground teams that were already working on the area trying to clear debris. For eight hours Morgan remained on station assisting the teams until more of the guard arrived. Due to his actions and the others in the area twenty-eight school children and their teachers were rescued from the mine with minor injuries.
Following the rescue mission Morgan gains greater respect from the local SLDF forces and he chooses now rather than later to propose to Marika Danko. Instead of waiting Marika insists they marry now before he’s taken from her again so in the presence of the Thorin Guard members and his mother Duchess Katya Christifori. Morgan Christifori and Marika Danko are married by Colonel Miguel Ãngel Silvestre, the commander of the First Thorin Guard.
First Kathil Uhlans RCT Basecamp
Cassandra Station, Bruin
Irian, Free Worlds League
13th March 3114
The basecamp of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT was a hive of activity as Colonel Celeste Lussier exited the executive transport aircraft. The unit’s equipment seemed to be a hodgepodge of Federated Suns, Free Worlds League, Capellan and Clan Wolf equipment unlike any other Federated Suns unit she had seen. She was met by a young male Leftenant dressed in a duty uniform who escorted her across the assembly yard and into the main command building a battered structure which had seen some fighting but looked structurally sound. Entering the building she was led to a back map room where Marshal Richard Steiner stood with three other Colonels all dressed in duty uniforms, she immediately saluted which was returned by the other officers.
“Welcome to Irian, Colonel†Steiner said greeting him. “We have assisted the SLDF repulsing another Wolf attack this morning the First Wolf Regulars Cluster. We probably damaged them enough that they won’t have enough to remain as a unit.†He said proudly
“Well done Marshal, I have been dispatched by Marshal of Armies Fredrick Davion…â€
“Very good, your forces can be integrated into our forces here, they will be very welcome…†Steiner began he knew she also had the FSS Emma Davion, an Avalon II-class Cruiser, at the Nadir point as well which would help secure Irian.
“Sir, sorry to interrupt you.†Celeste said interrupting him the Marshal smirked and nodded for her to continue. “I have arrived with an empty WarShip and some JumpShips. My orders are to recall you back to the Federated Suns, your transport is waiting you’ll be welcomed home as the heroes you are.â€
“Excuse me†one of the Colonels said his name tag read Wiig “we’ve lost a lot of people here, they are the heroes who sacrificed their lives for those who can’t fight for themselves.â€
“The Marshal of Armies wishes to see the Kathil Uhlans returned to the Federated Suns and stood down for rest and refurbishment.â€
“That’s a mistake, we are an integral part of the defence of this world with the SLDF.†Wiig responded “the SLDF and FWL got us to this point, we owe them…â€
“The Marshal of Armies does not agree†Celeste responded “Marshal Steiner, the Uhlans have been out of command for a long time. It is time that the Kathil Uhlans to return home.â€
“I’m struggling to agree with him†Steiner responded “Colonel, our people are going to have to discuss this.â€
“Sir, with respect they are yours to command.â€
“Affirmative they are but we’ve had to take unit orphans from SLDF, mercenary and Free World League units into our TO&E.†He explained his name tag read Klimek but he carried a few other markings she didn’t recognize at first before thinking about what he’d said one of his unit patches was a Free Worlds League one!
“This is a Federated Suns line unit… they are expected!â€
“COLONEL Lussier†Steiner said emphasizing her rank “the Kathil Uhlans are currently on station and they are under MY command. Now I’m telling you that the Uhlans need to discuss their position on these orders. You’ll be assigned guest quarters we’ll recall you when we’re ready. Dismissed†he said and Celeste Lussier was escorted out of the room.
---
Nearly three hours later Colonel Celeste Lussier was escorted back to the map room to meet with Marshal Richard Steiner who now was on his own and dressed in his formal dress uniform. As she entered, she immediately saluted the man who returned it immediately. “Colonel, at ease†he said she stood down “Colonel Lussier, please accept this declaration from the members of the First Kathil Uhlans who originated in the Federated Suns for the Marshal of Armies and the First Prince.†Steiner said handing her a written declaration which had dozens, no hundreds of signatures on it. “This is a declaration that as of this date we are resigning our commissions with the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.†He explained Lussier’s face must have told the story “our unit has had a mix of nationalities in it since we served with Task Force Serpent.†Steiner said “now we’ve all been away from the Federated Suns for almost two years we’ve been serving with people from several different backgrounds now we’re the Kathil Uhlans, our people are loyal to their unit and the unit have decided once and for all to align our futures with the Star League Defence Force.â€
“You cannot betray your oaths and steal equipment.â€
“We served the AFFS loyally for years Colonel, now we’ve had to survive on our own and we’ve taken others in.†He explained “we’re moving onto the next stage of our careers and we won’t be leaving the people hear in the lurch.â€
“You could be cut off from your families, refused entry into the Federated Suns, branded tra…â€
“I’m going to cut you off right there COLONEL.†Steiner said angrily “in that document it states that the people of this unit are ready to accept not being able to return to the Federated Suns. We’ve made this decision in full knowledge of that fact but do not dare go further than that. The men and women of this unit were exiled following orders to follow a Federated Suns combat mission, we did our damned jobs now we’re dealing with the consequences.†He said feeling himself he was beginning to rant and tried to calm down “we’ve been accepted as commissioned and non-commissioned officers of the SLDF. If the Marshal of Armies has a problem with it take it up with Terra, your dismissed do not let me delay you in your return to the Emma Davion.â€
Trial of Possession
Sherwood, Nova Cat’s Den
20th March 3114
While Clan Nova Cat’s 449th Assault Cluster declares a Trial of Possession over the Federated Suns world of Minette Tyler’s Terrors led by Earl Jonas Tyler land on Sherwood, their homeworld, for the first time in thirteen years. There they face off against the Nova Cat’s 451st Pouncer Cluster and while they fight in accordance with Clan dueling rules of Zellbrigen they are soundly defeated and forced off world. The attack is seen as a further afront to the Nova Cat’s territory by their neighbours and a greater challenge to Khan Canin Rosse’s rule. With the Nova Cat’s returning from Minette in defeat further calls for a challenge against Rosse continue to boil beneath the surface.
District of Regulus Hiring Hall
Bowang City, District of Bowang
Free Worlds League
22nd March 3114
The door to the hiring hall wooden slammed into the wood paneled wall taking the door off its hinge as Colonel Jocoam Chowla charged into the Hiring Hall for the District of Regulus on Bowang. He marched up to the negotiators desk and threw down a set name tags in front of a middle-aged man dressed in a business suit. “You want to explain to me what the hell happened on Wallis!†He demanded the man looked back at him calmly and then down at the name tag they read Aletha Chowla “your guns killed the people you hired to defend you!†Chowla continued angrily leaning over the desk grabbing the man and dragging him up off his seat “you killed my wife, you *******!†He bellowed his anger beyond its boiling point.
The District of Regulus had agreed to meet with representatives of the unit but the negotiator had been expecting the unit’s other co-commander Ariel Peregrine-Simpson not this muscled giant who could probably rival a small elemental. He stammered for a moment but Chowla wasn’t finished dragging him over his desk he threw the man to the ground. “I want ****** answers not excuses!†Jake Chowla cursed taking a stomp towards him.
“Stop right there!†a young woman dressed in a mercenary coat said from the door her hand was on her sidearm, which was still holstered, as were the two guards behind her.
“You know what the **** these pieces of crap did to my unit on Wallis!†He said stepping towards the man who shuffled across the floor away from him the guards reached for their weapons but the woman motioned to them to stop. He studied her for a moment she was in her early-to-mid thirties had long dyed red hair, someone who’d obviously been a fan of the old Natasha Kerensky stories.
“I heard Colonel†she said, he guessed she’d recognized his unit patch “the sold you up the river, but this isn’t the way trust me.â€
“It might not be†he said grasping one of the office chairs in his hands “but I promise you he said looking down at the negotiator, I’ll get mine one way or the other and I’ll start with your sorry hide†he said swinging the chair up off the ground and across the room into the wall in one fluid motion. The guards drew their weapons but the female mercenary didn’t.
“We’re done here†she said to them “Colonel, I’ll escort you outside, calmer heads can come together tomorrow.†She said flicking a lock of red hair over her shoulder motioning towards the door. Jake took a step towards the negotiator again but then stepped over his still cowering form “until next time.†He threatened
Outside a light rain had started as Jake and the mystery merc stepped outside. “I’m sorry for your loss Colonel, as a mercenary myself if I lost family as you have to your own employer, I’d be angry too. Lt Colonel Naomi Wrangler of the Thunder Road†she said extended her hand as they stepped down the first set of stone steps.
“Jocoam Chowla†he said formally introducing himself his touch was remarkably light for such a size and following the anger he’d shown. “Thank you, they owe us. I’ll get what I’m owed either here or I’ll go to Regulus and take it from there.â€
“You’ll get what’s owed to you Colonel, I know the MRBC has already looked into the case and is looking for a response from the District of Regulus. They cannot afford to be taken off the hiring lists, you’ll get compensation for this, but I know whatever they give you will not help make up for your loss.â€
“Nothing ever will†he said stomping off down the remaining steps and into the rain Naomi Wrangler stood on the steps watching for a moment before retreating inside.
---
The following day Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson and a couple of the other Chaos Irregulars attend the Hiring Hall they bypass the District of Regulus hiring hall going straight to the MRBC’s central hall. There their case is heard and evidence the Irregulars claimed from Wallis is taken into account before a ruling is made. The MRBC rule that Regulus broke the contract with the Chaos Irregulars by bringing down orbital bombardment on their position with adequate warning. They rule that Regulus owes the Chaos Irregulars equipment equal or superior to what the Irregulars lost, payment for the rest of their contract and compensation to the families who lost loved ones. The District of Regulus agrees to make payments to the Chaos Irregulars.
A few days later the District of Bowang offer the Chaos Irregulars a piece of land on the planet of Molokai where they can claim their compensation from the District of Regulus, rest their troops that survived Wallis and train new troops in exchange for them agreeing to help defend Molokai should it be attacked. Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson agrees on behalf of the unit, once on Molokai Jocoam Chowla takes some personnel time leaving Chaos Irregulars base camp in his captured Deva OmniMech heading into the Molokai wilderness to grieve.
RCS Warrior (Warrior-class battlecarrier)
Viborg Fleetyards
Viborg, Rim Collection
26th March, 3114
Loremaster Jordan Trustcott of Clan Fire Mandrill watched the holovideo in distaste. Three weeks ago, the dezgra Word of Blake and their lapdogs in the Circinus Federation had attacked the vital Viborg Fleetyards. They had sprung the Rim Collection’s trap and the Rim Collection nearly destroyed the CF Erinyes before it fled from battle.
It was a costly victory, he knew. The RCS Cassandra had taken heavy damage in holding the heavier WarShip at bay until the right moment for the RCS Warrior to jump in. Worse, the drone fighters the dezgra dogs had brought with them had been committed to an all-out kamikaze attack against the already damaged WarShip in the dezgra WarShip’s successful escape. The battered support cruiser was now just beginning repairs from the RCS Eye of Providence. It was estimated the WarShip would be back in action by the beginning of next year.
For three weeks the Rim Collection had detailed entire stars of Hunter-class JumpShips to find the dezgra vessel. And for three weeks, nothing was found of the missing vessel. That was until today.
The missing CF Erinyes had been found in the depleted system of Tatopani. Immediately the RCS Collection had been ordered to jump into the system and the other WarShips on the border with the Circinus Federation were ready to deploy. Unfortunately, before the RCS Rim Collection could engage the severely damaged dezgra WarShip, it had left the system.
But the holovideo was not of CF Erinyes’ escape from the wrath of the Rim Collection. It was instead focused on Ender’s Deep, a populated oceanic world in the Ender’s Cluster. Four days after the battle here at Viborg, the significantly important agricultural world had reported a pirate force entering the system with the IFF matching one of the Circinus Federation JumpShips that had fled the battle at Viborg.
Eight days later, an emergency HPG message had been broadcasted out loud and clear from the world, requesting immediate humanitarian aid. While the local militia had been able to neutralize the dezgra forces, it was not before they had set the planet’s primary fusion power plant into meltdown. Already, large amounts of radiation had begun to enter the important oceans and atmosphere that fed the huge schools of fish and underwater forests of kelp and seaweed that fed much of the remaining worlds of the Ender’s Cluster and supplied the cluster with medicinal herbs from the world’s aquafarms. Without immediate aid, the world would die and a famine would be unleashed across the remaining worlds of the Ender’s Cluster.
And that was the trick. Due to how the ten-star systems in the Ender’s Cluster aligned together, while JumpShips could jump freely between the ten systems often enough to keep trade and transport alive within the cluster, jumping into and from Ender’s Cluster was altogether a different story. The only time JumpShips could enter or leave the cluster was every eighty-two days for five-day windows and that window had sadly already passed. Very small windows of normally mere seconds and much more rarely a few minutes, enough for only a singular JumpShip to make the journey, but very dangerous, for whatever JumpShip that did not time its jump perfectly would be destroyed by the HPG bubble being affected by the cluster’s gravitational forces.
Already, multiple riots had been reported on all ten worlds as civilians began a mad dash to gather and hoard medicine and food. While the riots on the other worlds were forced back and law and order restored, if strained, the situation at Ender’s Deep was worsening by the hour. Order had ceased to exist within the first week, with the local nobility being lynched and as of yesterday, the HPG compound was barely holding on against rioters and rogue militia personnel. Without immediate aid, contact with the doomed world would end and complete and likely unstoppable anarchy would begin.
Now, only minutes ago, the Lyran Commonwealth had effectively announced they were abandoning the cluster!
Not abandoning, he amended a moment later. Archon Jessica Steiner was mobilizing a fleet of JumpShips at Florida. JumpShips laden with DropShips of food and medical supplies and personnel were arriving in the system. Two entire regimental combat teams were to help bring order to the cluster and the fleet to jump in as soon as the next window opened.
In two months.
In two months, the situation would be too far gone. Thousands, likely millions might die by then. That was unacceptable to him!
“Ender’s Cluster will not fall!†the tall battlemech-genotype warrior harshly whispered, causing the others on the bridge to stop what they were doing.
“Ender’s Cluster will not fall,†he reverently repeated himself as he stood up and scanned the bridge. He lacked the authority of what he was about to do. And he would answer for this, he well knew. But he would know he did the right thing.
“Comms!†he barked out. “Have all JumpShips assemble. I want all DropShips in the system to get loaded up and ready with supplies and send word out to all nearby units we will need any and all assistance they can provide, Collection and Lyran alike. And get me direct comms with Ender’s Cluster immediately! The Lyran Commonwealth may have abandoned the Ender’s Cluster but the Rim Collection will NOT! Seyla!â€
“Seyla,†the others among the bridge answered his own and soon a renewed purpose was restored. Within minutes, word had spread throughout the WarShip. Within an hour, various Rim Collection units and local governments across the Rim Collection were coordinating with each other.
An hour past that, communication with Ender’s Cluster had been established when the videostream of a haggard young depressed woman who had all but lost hope finally came through. “This is Grafina Natalie Sereal of the Ender’s Cluster. I was told you wanted to help?â€
“Aff,†Jordan responded. “I am readying multiple JumpShips to carry aid into the Ender’s Cluster. We should have the first ready by the end of the day. All we need are the coordinates and exact timings of all known jump points.â€
The young Lyran noble raked her hand through her hair in obvious irritation. “We already thought of that approach! We might get a few JumpShips through, but many’ll be lost. It’s too dangerous.â€
“Maybe for Lyran JumpShips but not those of the Rim Collection,†he steadily answered her. “Provide me those coordinates and any and all astrogation information you have for Ender’s Cluster and I vow assistance will arrive before the end of the month and regular assistance by end of next week.â€
Jordan Truscott watched the conflict that spread across the young woman’s face. And hoped she chose the right decision.
She did. “I don’t have much choice. Either I burn in hell among the Estates General when I inherit my father’s seat or I burn in hell when the riots begin again.†she paused, sighing. “I’ll get everything sent asap.â€
Truscott nodded approvingly. The young woman in the holostream was a born leader. Too bad she was Lyran. “Comms, relay her information as soon as we receive it to all worlds and ships within the Collection. I want everyone even remotely trained on astrogation to analyze every single particle of data she sends over. We need to plan this down to the second! We just became Ender’s Cluster’s only hope. Now move!â€
Trial of Possession
Vega, District of Vega
Rasalhague Dominion
27th March 3114
The Second Legion of Vega Regiment raid the world of Vega facing off against the Eighth Bear Cuirassiers Cluster in a series of Trials of Possession. The veteran Rasalhague Dominion unit are too strong for the Second facing off and defeating each of the District of Dieron forces before allowing them to leave the plant due to the honour they had shown in battle.
Briefing Room
LCS Iron Fist (Mjolnir-class battle-cruiser), Tharkad Orbit
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
31st March 3114
Archon Jessica Steiner made notes on her datapad as she reviewed the holovideo the Rim Collection was ‘kind’ enough to give to her government nearly a month ago. Really a short holofilm of separate battle ROMs the Collection had spliced together for public consumption and propaganda, it amounted to nearly all the hard evidence the Lyrans had on the Collection’s first home-built WarShip class. She had paid the class only a courtesy briefing a month ago, but that changed with news of the RCS Warrior, the lead ship of the class, had surprised the entire Commonwealth with something thought all but impossible; jumping into the Ender’s Cluster outside of the quarterly jump window.and immediately declaring it was there for the duration of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Worse, the damn Collection and their pet monkeys had effectively taken the astrogation charts of the Ender’s Cluster and had figured out when to time their JumpShips to nearly a pinpoint accuracy for multiple of the jump points every day, allowing relief to reach the embattled cluster of stars. And they had done it less than a week after her announcement the Commonwealth planned to send a relief fleet as soon as the next quarterly jump window arrived.
In two months.
She clenched her teeth and her pride when the news broke publicly. To be fair, her government was warned two hours ahead of time and should the first jump be successful, the Rim Collection would immediately send their WarShip into the cluster and send their constructed jump algorithm for Ender’s Cluster to the Commonwealth. She and her staff had just enough time to write and go over a short speech complimenting the Rim Collection for their assistance during this crisis and agreeing to the RCS Warrior’s humanitarian assistance.In the same speech, she made sure the first Lyran responders, Colonel Varnay and her First Fesnyng, would jump into the star cluster using the Collection’s algorithm tomorrow morning.
While the Federated Suns-born colonel would lead the relief efforts on the ground, Jessica had given the Varnay scion a secret mission. Find out all she could of the RCS Warrior without starting a war with the Rim Collection and to investigate rather the Lyran Commonwealth could still hold onto the star cluster after this humanitarian crisis had run its course and if not, to quietly put in Lyran intelligence operatives.
While Jessica hoped for the best, she well knew she had likely lost the entire star cluster to the Rim Collection, especially with the Rim Collection risking another attack on their Viborg Fleet yards, all but saying the Ender’s Cluster was more important than that vital system. And it was a bitter pill to swallow; yet should the Lyrans acquire more information on the Rim Collection WarShip, the loss could at least be somewhat mitigated, she reflected privately to herself as she stared at the image of the RCS Warrior.
And what she saw worried her. The damned Rim Collection had once again pulled a proverbial rabbit out of their hats. Classified as a multi-role battle-carrier, Jessica read between the lines... Nominally a battleship and carrier hybrid in ancient and modern naval theories. The class was built to fight battleships. And able to bring in more DropShips and aerospace assets into battle than any WarShip the Lyran Commonwealth currently fielded. Most modern naval theorists, herself included, had thought the classification only effective with the heavier battleship hulls as shown by House Davion in their Mercury-class battleship.
Should it prove capable, it would be a massive coup and a downright impressive feat as the class was marked at 920,000 tons, noticeably below one million tons, the tonnage of what most modern naval theorists classified as the minimum for battleships and less than half the tonnage as the Mercury. Effectively a pocket battleship. The short holoreel of battle ROMs confirmed this to the Lyran Archon.
And if it did prove worthy of its classification, Jessica Steiner knew it was a slap in the face to long standing modern naval theory and tradition. Modern naval theory heavily stressed fleets should keep their multi-role WarShips limited to escort vessels like frigates and destroyers and often argued for their specialization, or to cruisers expected to be on independent patrol. These were the workhorses of any fleet. Battleships and battle-cruisers served as the heavy hitters and should be in the thick of the fighting. Conversely, carriers and transports should be protected and were primarily for support. And by tradition, nearly all respectable navies followed that train of thought.
The Warrior-class, if effective, merged all the concepts together and in a hull smaller than a battleship. A truly frightening and sobering thought. It meant the Rim Collection had the potential to effectively create a fleet that could outperform her own in the long run and could be much easier maintained and built, with production streamlined to only one class. The fact it took only an average of seventeen months to build both cemented the later fact.
The thought made her nauseated and she quickly flicked the holoterminal off and began making notes on how to mitigate the Collection’s advantage.
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Excellent update. I wish I had half your talent. Then mayber I could fluff for designs
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Excellent update. I wish I had half your talent. Then mayber I could fluff for designs
Thanks it just takes lots of practice
When it comes designs I start with three basic ideas:
Where was it build
Why was it built
What tech do they have available
For example if I'm going with a Capellan design in the 3080s I know they'll be building it to defend from Federated Suns mainly
They'll have stealth armour available but likely not much if any Clan tech
From there the fluff leads itself for me i check out sarna for info on planets and from there sometimes use the info for testing or to describe a valley the factory was in and the design helped defend against
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Into the next bit. And well it's April 1st so...
CIC, FWLS Galisteo (Unity-class Frigate)
Maxwell, District of Gibraltar
Free Worlds League
1st April 3114
“And this is the hub of operations control of the Galisteo, the CIC.†Captain Mitch Mayweather the commander of the FWLS Galisteo said as he led the Duke of Maxwell Mitchell Lee onto the command deck of the Frigate.
“CIC?†The elderly Duke asked looking around the brightly lit room which was dominated by the huge holo-tank in the middle of the room.
“Combat Information Centre or bridge as some people know it. From here we can command all aspects of the WarShip’s operations.†Mayweather explained leading them through the room as the crewmen tried to ignore them working on operations.
“I thought I saw it on the top of the vessel as we came in, so you could see your targets?†He asked oblivious to WarShip operations or layout.
“No, that is the Stellar Observation Lounge, our navigators use it to observe the space around the Galisteo and use it to double check our computers calculations. It’s one of the few places on the ship that you can look out of a window into open space, during combat it is retracted into the hull.†Mayweather explained the idea that the bridge would be on the top of the ship exposed to enemy fire was one that was solely restricted to science fiction. “For WarShip operations we use the Holotank which gives us full coverage around the vessel.â€
“So, your crew use the holotank to track things outside the WarShip?â€
“No, each crewman who needs to see what is going on in the space around us they can see on their own systems. We use the holotank to give us an overview of…†He began to explain but was interrupted as five new contacts appeared in the holotank.
“Sensor contact, one Wolf WarShip and four JumpShips†one of the CIC crewmen reported.
“Received and understood†Mayweather said looking up at the holotank, Duke Lee followed his gaze, “continue to monitor, maintain standard operations.†He commanded turning back to the Duke “as I was explaining Duke each crewman who needs to can monitor operations from their own stations we use the holotank to give us a command overview of the space around the WarShip.†He said but the Duke was still focused on the holotank.
“Captain, pardon my ignorance but shouldn’t we be more concerned with that WarShip and those JumpShips?â€
“No, it’s a supply convoy, if the Wolves wanted trouble, they’d have jumped in closer than they have and we’d know about it already.†He explained but saw the Duke was not happy. “Allow me to explain Duke Lee, by the time I issue commands for our fighters to launch and our weapons to be turned on them the Wolves will have either jumped out or will have opened fire on us. Those Wolves jump into the system fully ready for battle, if they wanted a fight, they are ready for it.â€
“Shouldn’t our CAP be ready to intercept them?â€
“Flying a CAP in space only wastes fuel, creates airframe fatigue, puts pilots at risk and our sesors can track threats far more effectively than any CAP could, all of our fighters are currently onboard this vessel. At the distance the Wolves are currently at none of our CAP fighters could intercept them as they’d already have used fuel while they were out there.†The Captain explained trying not to make the duke sound stupid while he did, he was thinking about aircraft in an atmosphere in space things worked differently. Out of the corner of his eye he saw all five Wolf contacts jump out.
“So, the Wolves can simply violate our space? Perhaps your superiors need to send additional units to this system?â€
“Tactical control, extrapolate how many craft would be needed to guard this system?†Mayweather requested after several minutes the crewmen spoke back.
“Captain, approximately fourteen hundred aerospace fighters, one hundred-and-eighty DropShips, eighteen space stations or WarShips.†He reported
“As you can see Duke Mayweather space is vast.†He explained hopefully not making the Duke sound stupid while he did mentally Mayweather noted it was the First of April... if the Duke wished to waste his time it was up to him.
“Perhaps, I will speak to Gibraltar after the tour of this vessel is complete.†He said as Mayweather led him from the bridge through the Galisteo few people truly understood just how big space was to stop every intrusion into a system was simply impossible.
Exploration Mission, Spirit of Northumberland
Body 42, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
5th April 3114
Jumping into a system that was formerly part of the Marian Hegemony before its conquest by the Free Worlds League the Spirit of Northumberland begins its first scans of the system. The system had not been permanently inhabited by the Marian Hegemony but they had used it for some limited mining. Now it was up to the Endevour-class vessel and its crew to determine what viability the system had for longer term habitation.
Border conflict
Free Worlds League/Wolf Empire
11th April 3114
In an effort to distract Clan Wolf from other operations and isolate Tamarind from the rest of the Wolf Empire the Free Worlds League, mercenary and SLDF launch an attack centred on the systems of Labouchere, Nihau, Preston and Zortman with the Concordia Battlegroup out of Atreus in support.
With the only Wolf WarShip in the Zortman system the Concordia herself and the WarShip Baronnet concentrate on that system while the other two WarShips of the Battlegroup attack Preston and Nihau with ground forces. The FWLS WarShips encounter multiple Nagasawa-class DropShips in each of the systems as the reason for a lack of WarShips in the systems becomes apparent with Clan Wolf having purchased dozens of the Sea Fox produced assault DropShip. In the Preston system the Venturer-class Light Cruiser MS Monitor is overwhelmed by Clan Wolf DropShips and aerospace fighters which breaks up the attack forcing back the attack on the system.
In the Zortman system while the Clan Wolf vessel Tigress, a Halcyon-class Cruiser, is able to damage the Concordia and the multiple Nagasawa-class DropShips are able to take out dozens of aerospace fighters but the Thera-class Carrier’s aerospace fighters are eventually able to overwhelm and destroy the Clan Wolf WarShip clearing the way for ground forces.
On each of the worlds targeted by the Free Worlds League were elements of Clan Wolf’s Snarling Wolves Galaxy with each unit having instructions to slow any Inner Sphere intrusion by any means necessary until reinforcements arrive. On Labouchere the attack on Wolf holdings falls to pieces as the Raymond’s Hussars mercenary command take their revenge on the SLDF by failing to support the Seventh Special Operations Group which results in the Elite Team being overwhelmed by Clan Wolf Elementals. The Hussars pull off planet by overwhelming the SLDF defences at the DropShips and escaping.
On Zortman, Preston and Nihau the Free Worlds League forces face heavy resistance from the Elite Wolf troops with the Fifth Marik Guards Regiment destroyed Nihau before FWL forces are forced to retreat with the arrival of the Werewolf and additional Clan Wolf ground forces. The MS Macuahuitl, an Eagle-class Frigate, sacrifices itself in the system to allow ground forces to evacuate to their DropShips. While Clan Wolf’s garrison forces on Preston fall quickly to the Free Worlds League ground forces. For two worlds “liberated†from the Wolves two WarShips, an entire ground force regiment and an Elite SLDF team have been lost. With the SLDF officially branding Raymond’s Hussars as a rogue command.
Fleet operations, Medusans Command Group
Fenwick, Star League Protectorate
20th April 3114
In the space near Fenwick the Medusans Mercenary Command were continuing operations helping the people of Fenwick adapt to their return to the Inner Sphere. The Medusans helped screen trader vessels through the system from nearby states ensuring they were not bringing in weapons or equipment that could cause issues in the system and ensuring that they remained away from the SLDF WarShips which were being refitted and testing the system.
Today the Medusans were also taking part of the payment for their contract with the SLDF. Four sixty-ton Schrack OmniFighters flew close to the Medusan JumpShips which sat away from the Jump point currently not needed by the command. They banked to the left turning around the JumpShips and heading towards the Medusans newest vessel the seven hundred-and-eighty thousand-ton Quixote-class DropShip Tender which had arrived this morning, the Medusans had named the vessel Forrestal after an old Terra aircraft carrier. The vessel was the first in a new class being developed for the SLDF and the Medusans would be the first to use it. Approaching the vessel at high speed the four Schrack’s split into pairs near the front of the vessel flying down the length of the vessel.
In the CIC of the vessel Admiral John Jellico (Retired) stood at the rear of the room like the seasoned naval officer he was. For more than a decade he had commanded the Medusans before retiring two years ago in the middle of the room he watched his successor Admiral Samantha Harrington take command of the Forrestal. He quietly wondered what he’d do with such a vessel if he still commanded the Medusans, the unit had always been a JumpShip/DropShip unit with some ground forces to support operations but the Quixote added a new element to the unit’s capabilities. Now however was a day to be remembered for the Medusans he thought as Harrington guided the Forrestal through the Medusans JumpShip and DropShip formations parading the vessel in front of all of their people. The vessel would bring a completely new capability to the Medusans one that they could not squander Jellico knew that he’d trained Harrington and the others well, his unit was in a good place.
Construction site, Buick Mountain Range
Marduk, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
28th April 3114
Massive machines were at work hollowing out a huge tunnel which would lead deep into the Buick Mountain Range on Marduk. Dozens of IndustrialMechs supported construction vehicles moving earth and rock out of the mountain as the new facility was constructed. Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek stood back and watched as the men and women worked their machinery creating her House’s new home. After almost a decade in the Federated Suns her people had fully adopted their position in this new Inner Sphere it had taken some time but they had finally accepted their place in the nation instead of the Confederated Suns that bore them.
Unfortunately their people had also given up on the dream of remaining on New Avalon within the confines of the Sortek family landhold they were too different from the other members of the Sortek family and few of them could forgive the actions of Arden Sortek or his son Conner in their nation it didn’t matter to many that Arden was a hero to the Federated Suns or that Conner was a loyal officer of the Armed Forces. As a result of this tension Imarra had jumped at the offer from First Prince Burton Davion to take a land hold of their own on Marduk. Although the world was on the Draconis Combine border and likely to be targeted by any invasion force she relished the challenge for her people.
Since arriving on Marduk three weeks ago she’d searched for a suitable place for the Warrior House to call home and found the Buick Mountain Range was perfect for their requirements with massive reserves of granite which would protect her people should the Draconis Combine bring orbital bombardment against them. She’d employed half the construction companies on Marduk for the effort to hollow out a cavern which would serve as their Castle and command complex which would host and protect their vehicle and Mech maintenance facilities and their infantry barracks. The façade of the mountain face would be styled in a fashion which would be unique to her House forming a Monastery for their recruits to train and learn the ways of Warrior House Sortek before becoming fully fledged members of the command. This world now would serve as a base world for her people as they traveled the Federated Suns and helped its people and it would serve as a symbol of the strength of Warrior House Sortek.
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This is the design I used for the Quixote-class DropShip Tender, my thanks to the original designer I really liked it
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=1949.msg45841#msg45841 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=1949.msg45841#msg45841)
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Burn-in system, Hell’s Horses Formidable (Arbitration-class Battleship)
Arcturus, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd May 3114
As the SLS Jerricho, an upgraded Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser exploded under heavy fire from the Formidable, Khan Teresa Cooper smiled this operation had been years in the planning and now with the Lyran Battleship LCS Diligence crippled and the Jerricho destroyed the path was clear for her Clan to begin landings on Arcturus, former capital of the Lyran Commonwealth.
The three galaxies she commanded had been reinforced with additional Clusters made up of the best her Clan could offer and trained in the Mongol Doctrine that her Clan was now fully embracing. Included in all these new clusters were warriors who had been bred through the Elstar program they were trained to be the elite of all warriors and were driven for success.
On the planet below there were seven commands belonging to the Lyran Commonwealth and several mercenary units ready to defend the world against the Hell’s Horses invasion. Normally she’d be concerned about retaliation by the Lyrans against her Clan but during discussions with the other Clans on Tukayyid she’d mentioned plans to invade this world. As a result of her plans the Jade Falcons and surprisingly the Coyotes had seen opertunities to increase their territorial. Only this morning the Watch had confirmed that Jade Falcon forces had invaded Bruekelen, Kirkcaldy, Aur and Edasich while the Coyotes had entered the Apostica and Ganshoren systems, the Coyotes had also taken several of the Hell’s Horses worlds in recent weeks freeing up troops for this operation. It was glorious to see the Clans on the move again it was like the spirit of Operation REVIVAL had been reborn by the actions of her Clan and the march on Terra had begun again.
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Six days later Hauptmann Alex Gabriotti was fighting for his life as he had been since the Hell’s Horses landed on Arcturus as the Twentieth Arcturan Guards RCT had essentially been destroyed around him. This world was important to the Lyran Commonwealth it had served for many years as a capital world and the people were loyal to the Commonwealth and its Archon. Today it seemed all his troubles were coming from Hell’s Horses vehicles turning his massive Zeus ZEU-11S BattleMech to the right Gabriotti tried to track one of the two Vel Harrasser Hovertanks that were harassing him. Dropping the targeting over the tank he let rip with his clan built long range missile launcher and torso mounted medium and large lasers. Heat spiked in the Zeus’ cockpit as long-range missiles exploded all around and over the Vel Harrasser, the medium laser burned into the hovercraft’s armour and the large laser melted some of the scenary. Alex cursed loudly in Italian as he saw the large laser miss it was his best chance of knocking out the twenty-five-ton hovertank.
In response he felt his Zeus rocked as the return fire from the Vel Harrasser’s turret in the form of short-range missiles and medium pulse lasers cut into the legs and torso of his Mech. From his right the second Vel Harrasser appeared adding its own short-range missiles and medium lasers to the attack. Alone one of these craft would be no threat to his Zeus, together… Alex was in trouble. “This is Gabriotti, I need some assistance in sector four, two squirly hovercraft making life horrible here!†He shouted into the comm channel all he heard back was static one of the craft carried an ECM suite. “Screw you!†He cursed reaching out with his Zeus’ left arm and let rip with the gauss rifle mounted there the accelerated slug shot out of the gauss rifle and flew straight and true towards the Vel Harrasser entering the craft through the cockpit crushing the pilot in his chair the Hovercraft spun out of control its hover fans cutting to idle dropping it slowly to the ground. “Gabriotti, one down any assistance appreciated†he called out turning back towards the other as more short-range missiles flew into his BattleMech’s torso section. He returned fire blindly with long range missiles and was glad to see that some of the peppered the remaining hovercraft but didn’t penetrate the armour. Pulse lasers followed from the Val Harrasser but Alex was even more determined now stepping forwards adding the large laser to the hovercraft’s hurt causing more damage to the craft. This time the laser struck home and dug through the craft’s armour and sparked off the vehicle’s short-range missile launcher ammo bin. The resulting explosion channeled by the vehicle’s CASE system saved the vehicle’s crew just long enough for Alex’s follow up gauss rifle shot which gutted the remains of the hovercraft finishing it off in a brilliant explosion. “Gabriotti, two down!†He confirmed standing still for a moment glad to have survived the encounter.
From nowhere his Zeus was forced forwards as missiles slammed into the back of the Mech. The missiles had penetrated his rear armour blowing through the long-range missile ammunition bin. The CASE II built into the toros saved his Mech from a catastrophic death but his long-range missile launcher was now useless. He glanced at his sensors somehow despite having taken a hit directly to the crew compartment the first Vel Harrasser was still active he spun the Zeus as quickly as an eighty-ton BattleMech coult and launched a ferocious attack with both the gauss rifle and large laser destroying what was left of the hovercraft which disappeared in an expanding fireball. “Gabriotti, now it’s two down, am I the only one out here.†He communicated now seeing that he was back on the Lyran communication net.
“ALL LYRAN UNITS RECALL! RECALL! CODE OF DAY: ESSOVIUS REPEAT: ESSOVIUS†the transmission came across all channels Alex Gabriotti checked his code word and saw what ESSOVIUS stood for “Retreat to Royal Palace pending evacuation.†His heart sunk they’d already lost his own Twentieth and the Second Arcturian Guards on Arcturus now it appeared that they were also losing the planet turning his broken BattleMech away from the destroyed hovertanks he heeded the call and began to head back towards to capital.
The scene at the Royal Palace was chaos as the remains of various RCTs attempted to mount a final defence aganst the incoming Hell’s Horses. As his Zeus entered the main staging area, he saw dozens of armoured vehicles carrying the insignia of the Royal Guards and the Eisenjagers leave the area intent on taking the fight to the Hell’s Horses. Alex was directed to a Mechbay onboard a Union-class DropShip which was loading to leave the world. Before he entered, he saw General of Armies Aiden Grey, the former commander of the Twentieth Arcturian Guards RCT and now commander of all Lyran forces, standing directing commands. Alex’s battle was over his BattleMech could never be repaired intime for a last stand but the Lyran’s weren’t finished yet. Reports suggested that four Hell’s Horses Clusters had been destroyed so far and the Seventeenth and Twenty-seventh Arcturian Guards intended on adding more Horses to the butcher’s bill.
As Lyran ground forces and several mercenary units stream away from the planet the remaining defenders commanded by Aiden Grey vow to battle against the Horses until the end fighting into June trying to hold onto the territories they still held on Arcturus. Unfortunately following a failed resupply mission which cost the Lyran Commonwealth the LCS Thorn, an Indefatigable-class Battleship, the defence of Arcturus was declared a lost cause and further counter-attacks were called off.
Nova Cat Raid in Force
Minette Combat Region, Crucis March
Federated Suns
11th May 3114
Following the raid on Sherwood by Tyler’s Terrors Clan Nova Cat raid three worlds of the Minette Combat Region. In each of the worlds of Crofton, Des Aro and Symsonia. While both the Des Aro and Symsonia fall to the Nova Cats in standard Trials of Possession which the Federated Suns defenders fight honourably, but on Crofton the Nova Cats face the strongest opponents the veteran Regimental Combat Team the Fourth Crucis Lancers which is there to defend the massive Star League-era StarCorps Industries Manufacturing plant. To counter this defence unit Clan Nova Cat hit Crofton with the full force of five front-line Clusters of Alpha Galaxy supported by two WarShips.
Once on the ground Nova Cat saKhan Kalvin Rosse approached Marshal Yvonne Guillox the commander of the Fourth Crucis Lancers outside the planetary capital Marcus. “Marshal, thank you for meeting with me, I am saKhan Kalvin Rosse I am here to declare a Trial of Possession for Crofton.â€
“I am happy to meet our neighbours in Clan Nova Cat, you have brought many warriors Khan.†She said diplomatically while Kalvin Rosse was not a young warrior at nearly fifty years old Yvonne Guillox was at least seventy years in age. Kalvin knew little about Inner Sphere MechWarriors only that most retired before they reached that age living out their last few decades in peace a Clan warrior could never accept that and nor it appeared could Guillox which was something Rosse had to respect.
“Marshal, in retaliation for actions taken by the Federated Suns sponsored dezgra mercenary force known as Tyler’s Terrors on Sherwood Clan Nova Cat has decided that the systems of Des Aro, Symsonia and Crofton will belong to Clan Nova Cat going forwards.â€
“An extreme reaction, I had units on Des Aro and Symsonia†Guillox noted “perhaps Clan Nova Cat wishes more territory?â€
“They have been treated fairly and they fought well. Those troops that survived are heading out of those systems to other Federated Suns garrisoned worlds. We only desire what we are due†Rosse responded “I would prefer not to destroy this world in taking it from you. It is the Clan way that we fight honourably so the equipment left can be used by the victors and in the future, it is available to be recaptured. You understand this quiaff?â€
“Yes, I am aware of your practices.â€
“Will you be willing to abide by them quiaff?â€
“I have been ordered by my superiors to fight within your dueling rules and not use bring total war to you.†She said Kalvin smirked he was the one with two WarShips in system backing up the ground troops if anyone was bringing ‘total war’ it would be him.
“Good, I am glad. Nova Cat forces will meet you here and on each of the continents of Annesland, Churchill, Edwards and Lowther the winner of the overall number of battles will be declared victor. I will send you their combat information details. Your individual unit commanders will be invited by my Cluster commanders to enter a Batchall so we can fight with the smallest unit available to both sides minimizing losses on both our sides. It is your right as defender to decide to fight with your full force at any of these positions.†Kalvin explained
“I understand, I will ensure my people are aware of your laws.â€
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In the following days the Nova Cat clusters engage groups of Federated Suns troops at various locations across the world. Crowds of people gather to watch these events unfold as the two forces line up in full sight of each other before the combat breaks out. For many of the people it is the first time they have seen anything but units of the Federated Suns and for almost all of them the first time anyone has seen a Clan force.
At the worlds capital of Marcus and on the continents of Churchill and Edwards the Nova Cats are victorious while on the continents of Annesland and Lowther the Crucis Lancers defeat Forty-seventh Nova Cat Spirit Cluster and the Fifth Nova Cat Roar clusters causing heavy damage to the Clan forces despite this with three out of five victories Crofton and its valuable manufacturing facility are captured by the Nova Cats. The damaged remains of the Fourth Crucis Lancers are allowed to retreat out of the system.
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Across the Federated Suns questions are risen to the High Command asking why a manufacturing site like Crofton was allowed to be taken by a “friendly†Clan. Questions are asked about the whole idea of an allied Clan especially after what the Lyran Commonwealth has experienced on Arcturus.
Passing Out Ceremony
Regulus, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
20th May 3114
In a ceremony in front of great crowds Caden Cameron-Jones follows his older sister and becomes a MechWarrior in the service of the District of Regulus and the Free Worlds League. He like his older sister will join the Second Cameron-Jones Guard Regiment in the defence of Regulus.
Elsewhere in the Free Worlds League various District forces come into conflict with what is believed to be pirate forces striking at several worlds before crossing into other districts and then the two district forces coming into conflict over who has the rights to chase down enemy forces that cross borders.
Contract Negotiation
Kelswa-Aten Palace, Skye
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd Mary 3114
Following the fall of Arcturus multiple mercenary units were retreating to Galatea Station, Noisiel or other mercenary worlds but that wasn’t the place for Koblenz’s Wildcats. Having served their way through the battles on Arcturus and had only left due to the evacuation orders issued by Lyran command now Kommandant Monzar Koblenz was determined to get his mixed battalion back into the fight and Skye was the way for it.
Walking into the Kelswa-Aten Palace in Glasgow on Skye Kommandant Koblenz saluted Duchess Ilsa Kelswa-Aten. “Welcome to Skye Kommandant†she greeted him.
“Thank you, Duchess, my Wildcats would like to work for Skye.â€
“You would?†She asked surprised she knew of the Wildcats by reputation only they had worked exclusively for House Steiner since their inception and they had grown to more than a battalion in size before the fight on Arcturus. Used as a special operations/troubleshooting unit the Wildcats were a very experienced command.
“Yes, we have loyally served House Steiner for fifty years but it is time that we took a stand. The Clans are at the gates of Skye if they breach Skye then Terra is there next target and then my mercenary trade will end.â€
“So you’ll stand with us in our time of need.â€
“Yes mam, pay us enough to maintain our equipment, fuel our ships and put food in our bellys and we’ll fight for you.â€
“I will accept your terms Kommandant with one requirement from you. How was Arcturus?â€
“Hell on earth†Monzar Koblenz replied “the Horses hit us from every angle you can imagine. They hit fast and strong.â€
“Can they be stopped?â€
“Yes, if you train hard to counter them.â€
“Then until they come your duties will be to travel the Isle of Skye and train my people how t’ fight and how t’ stop them.†She said her accent began to slip slightly as she spoke.
“We can do that.†He promised her their unit determined to now stand or fall against the incoming Clans.
Exploration Mission, District of Lesnovo Expedition-3
Algenib, Independent Periphery
Deep Periphery
29th May 3114
“MOVE YOUR ARSE!†Lieutenant Amanda Cavalcanti screamed at the drivers of the two Pit Bull Trucks that were moving ahead of her, she had been in situations like this before when against a superior opponent you don’t try to stand up against them. Their expedition had been ambushed by superior forces as the afternoon light began to fade. One of their Pit Bull’s had been destroyed and several of her Mechs were lightly damaged. “Cemetery Wind fall back by the numbers to the DropShip! These guys fired first and don’t want to talk to us.†She ordered the other three MechWarriors her unit had been hired to support the District of Lesnovo expedition force which was based off the Spirit of Northumberland. She twisted her Ebony Snake ultra-light BattleMech and let loose two salvos of rockets followed by some smoke from her BattleMech’s grenade launchers. She watched as the rockets exploded over the chest of the Vindicator causing minimal damage to the forty-five-ton Mech. She brought up her Mech’s handheld weapon and opened fire with the three machine guns mounted there with the rockets gone she was down to the machine gun fire.
“Boss, backtrack†one of the MechWarriors said as Rubiyov’s Rattlesnake stepped into view adding his own rockets to her fire as more enemy Mechs, four UrbanMechs moved into view. The UrbanMech was a joke across the Inner Sphere but it weights double her Ebony Snake’s tonnage.
This was the Cemetery Wind’s first contract off Lesnovo the idea was simply take the contract with the Exploration Corps jump around the periphery with the Spirit of Northumberland for a year or so, then make enough money to buy some larger Mechs for the next contract but things were going way south. As Amanda turned back towards the DropShip, she saw her biggest Mech the twenty-five-ton Mammoth piloted by Davie O’Connor step forwards firing long range missiles, two medium lasers and two machine guns into one of the UrbanMechs. The UrbanMech’s response was to torso twist and hit the Mammoth square in the face with an autocannon volley. Amanda saw the Mech’s advanced Reactive armour explode outwards deflecting some of the autocannon’s projectiles away from the Mech but she could also see heavy damage done to the Light Mech the pilot continued to fire even as he began to retreat.
They were in the clearing now and Amanda could see their Fortress-class DropShip which had began to lay down fire towards the incoming enemy Mechs. “Clean break people move towards the DropShip.†She ordered everyone the two Pit Bull trucks and her five Mech’s began making steady progress with the pirates unwilling to close on the DropShip, they were going to make it she thought.
Amanda Cavalcanti didn’t see the blow coming but she felt it as her fifteen-ton Mech was battered by the hatchet of a monstrous Archer. The massive axe slammed through her Mech’s legs crushing them and forcing the Mech to the ground. The Mech cartwheeled once beforce coming to a rest with Cavalcanti knocked unconscious by the impact. Around her there was momentary chaos as her lance tried to counter attack only to be knocked back by the Archer which dropped a salvo of napalm filled short range missiles between her Mech and her allies blocking any chance of them reaching her downed Mech. Despite the DropShip’s fire the ground forces from the Spirit of Northumberland were forced back to the DropShip which boosted towards orbit soon afterwards leaving Amanda Cavalcanti in her wrecked Mech behind.
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When she came to Amanda Cavalcanti realized, she was in a cave and she was attached to a bed by a pair of handcuffs she wasn’t a kinky person so she guessed her encounter with the pirates wasn’t a really bad dream, she also realized that under the sheets she was in only her underwear and wrapped in a couple of large bandages which covered her side. She also quickly realized she wasn’t alone glancing over she saw a man who looked like he was in his thirties he was unshaven, he had long hair, which was tied back in a ponytail his face had several shallow scars on it and one deeper one that ran from the centre of his forehead into his left eyebrow.
“Good morning†he said his voice was rough and the accent wasn’t regional.
“I assume I’m your prisoner?†She asked rattling the handcuffs.
“You are.â€
“Then I’d suggest you let me go, we have a WarShip in…â€
“Your ship jumped out this morning, you’ve been unconscious for three days we suspect a concussion. Your DropShip burned straight to the ship and it left the system.†He said informing her “we now realise you are not a hunting band looking for us, you didn’t have to be our enemy, but you will not be collected by your people.â€
“Too late not to be my enemy.†her mind raced their first job and she was abandoned by their employer. No by O'connor he wanted the damned job and now he had it.
“You will not be collected by your people†he repeated again as if rubbing it in. “But you do not have to be our enemy. Your injuries were not life threatening we have salvaged your dinky toy BattleMech, you could pilot it again.â€
“I can’t see it†she said angrily staring at the rocks above her. “First thing you could do in proving your not my enemy is by giving me my clothes back?†She said glancing down at the sheets aware, they’d seen a lot that the cave wasn’t the warmest place and that she was probably showing quite a bit. “You salvaged my Ebony Snake, I should have a sachel in the cockpit with some spare clothing I’d like it back.â€
“That can be arranged. Do not try to escape, the people on this world are not well developed and could see you as lunch. My people will continue to take care of you and we’ll take you with us if your cooperative but cross us…†he said leaning closer to her “cross us and you’ll pay a terrible price.â€
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McCoy's Malcontents and Cemetery Wind added along with the customized Archer and a picture from Andrew Derton
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3319.15#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3319.15#lastPost)
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Products of Twin Sons Manufacturing
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3930.0 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3930.0)
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Ambush Point
Hassad, Glasgow Commonality
Capellan Confederation
3rd June 3114
“Cut right!†The Bounty Hunter called out from his Marauder II BattleMech he saw Dominic Nostra’s Mad Cat move to the right clearing the way for his own autocannon and twin particle cannon shots to cause heavy damage to the Spartan BattleMech.
Things were not going as they had planned. The Bounty Hunter had come to Hassad as a hunter searching for the pirate band known as “7†but before his team could track down their prey the unit had been attacked by four identical SPT-NX Spartan BattleMechs already Mark’s Privateer BattleMech had been destroyed. For thirty years those that had served as the Bounty Hunter had not encountered these Mechs but now it was Christopher Grant’s turn to face them. Each Mech was eighty tons in weight, it moved up to ninety kilometres per hour and was heavily armed with a devastating sword, an assortment of missiles and lasers. Christopher cursed as his autocannon barrage battered against one of the Spartan’s massive shields which deflected much of the damage.
“We need to break out†Dominic Nostra said opening fire with his Mad Cat’s array of pulse lasers.
“Agreed†the Bounty Hunter replied firing again into an enemy Mech, they were outnumbered and going to be cut to pieces by these brutes of Mechs. “Kafka, point four hit his back open it up.â€
“Affirmative†the pilot responded her modified Hawk Moth VTOL Verwandlung flew in fast firing a long stream of autocannon fire into one of the Spartan’s backs and heads as she passed overhead. The weapons barrage was enough to penetrate the Spartan’s head and either hurt or kill the pilot as suddenly the massive machine staggered and fell to the side.
“Well done, recover to staging. Dominic, Sam, Rayna move!†He snapped his green Marauder II moved towards the fallen Spartan as he twisted its torso towards another target and unloaded his weapons. Beside him the Mad Cat, Cauldron Born and Vagabond surged towards the gap. “Not today†Christopher Grant said reaching out with his Marauder II’s big arms to block a blow by one of the Spartan’s swords which smashed into the arm armour instead of striking something more vulnerable. Leaning his Mech forward Grant fired the autocannon at point blank range gutting the Spartan’s torso ruining its gyro he then twisted the his Mech’s torso knocking the Spartan to the side as a variable pulse laser burned across the Marauder II’s torso. Above Kafka dived in again showering the area in autocannon fire. “Kafka, withdraw before these idiots turn on you.â€
“I’m too fast for them boss, get out of there!†She said as short-range missiles smashed into his Marauder II from the remaining two Mechs. The massive one hundred-ton Mech was battered from side to side as he fought to control it after losing over a ton of armour. Ahead of him in the gap the other three Mechs had stopped retreating and were firing their weapons in a covering pattern driving the remaining two Spartan’s back.
“All of you keep going we’re not hanging about the 7 can wait for another day.†Christopher said turning to face the two Spartans keeping up his firing pattern to keep the two assault Mechs back. Whoever these guys were they’d picked a bad time to return. The Bounty Hunter and his team continued to exchange fire with the Spartans until they reached their DropShip and boosted off the planet.
As if to add injury to insult the next day the 7 attack the Fifteenth Liao Lancers supply convoy in an attack alongside the two Spartans that had engaged the Bounty Hunter. The six Mechs combined destroy more than a Battalion of Liao Mechs, vehicles and infantry in a series of running battles before recovering much of the salvage as the Liao Lancers withdraw.
Trials of Possession
Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th June 3114
A series of Trials of Possession are declared by Clan Nova Cat targeting the Federated Suns worlds of Minette, Molino, Hortense and Shubuta as the Nova Cats drive deep into the heart of the Federated Suns. With the AFFS still deployed mostly to cover the borders with the Draconis Combine and Capellan Confederation the local forces have little choice but to fight to the Clan method of combat. On each of the worlds targeted by the Nova Cats the Clan encounters elements of the veteran Fourth New Avalon Guards RCT and local forces while over Minette two Davion-class Destroyers supplement the defences.
In a series of Trials of Possession, the Nova Cats are able to capture the systems of Molino and Hortense but they fail to secure Minette. Anger continues to feed back to New Avalon at the AFFS inaction to counter this raiding Clan and the lack of front-line forces in the area. Hundreds of messages are sent to the Royal Court, the office of the First Prince and the office of the Marshal of Armies demanding action. First Prince Burton Davion orders his Marshal of Armies Fredrick Davion to take personal charge of the Federated Suns defence against Clan Nova Cat.
Landing David Aceland (Buccaneer-class DropShip)
Coromodir VI, Cordia City
New Quarter, Fronc Reaches
22nd June 3114
The Fronc Reaches Government Buccaneer-class DropShip David Aceland slowly came to rest on the tarmac of the spaceport of Coromodir VI. While technically a member world of the Fronc Reaches the nation generally allowed its member worlds to run their own affairs and Coromodir had largely fallen away from Fronc Reaches politics. Ambassador Stanislav Radionov had been dispatched by Fronc to re-establish relations with Coromodir and bring it back into the fold. Now leaving his diplomatic vessel the Ambassador realized that Coromodir was far from the backward world he’d expected with a multi-tiered spaceport that had been built in the last forty years something few other Fronc Reaches worlds could boast. His well-kept business suit fit better into the local scene than he’d suspected it would.
He was taken onboard a well-kept motor vehicle and transported through a decently sized city, he wondered why this world was not more important to the Fronc Reaches. His vehicle was driven through the large gates of an ancient defensive fortress which looked Taurian in design. While far from being in pristine condition it was still an impressive formation he was escorted through the hall of the House Arano home to the leaders of Coromodir. On the throne sat a beautiful young woman she was half Stanislav’s age at least she wore a beautiful black and red gown which looked almost Capellan in design with a golden grown that ringed her forehead, while beside her throne was an equally young dark-skinned man who stood nearby he was dressed in a blue suit with a ceremonial cloak over his shoulders he wore his dark hair short and wore a pair of black rimmed glasses.
“Welcome to Coromodir†the young man said looking at him more closely as he spoke Stanislav noticed his arms shook gently as he spoke “you are in the presence of Ali’i nui of Coromodir Kamea Arano.â€
“I am honoured†Stanislav Radionov said “Ali-inoo of Coromodir†he said stumbling over the title “thank you for inviting us here I am Ambassador Stanislav Radionov from Fronc.â€
“Welcome Ambassador please Countess is as accurate as Ali’I nui, I will accept such a title from an ally.†The young leader of this world said her voice was sweet but strong.
“Thank you†he said bowing to her slightly in thanks “Countess, Fronc has been remiss recently and we have not been the best of neighbours we intend on improving those relationships.â€
“I would welcome such an offer, House Arano has attempted to maintain necessary links with those worlds near us but the greater Reaches would be welcome visitors.â€
“Your world is impressive Countess, how one such as Coromodir was allowed to lose its position within our nation baffles me.†Radionov admitted he’d heard the system’s name before but didn’t realize it was nearly as populated or as wealthy as it was.
“We have had a rough few years, famine, disease, internal conflict and conflict with our neighbours have all played a part in Coromodir’s low profile. Fronc, Detroit and others have been allowed to take the limelight while our people recover.â€
“I see†Radionov said suddenly wondering just how far the Countess’ ambitions reached. “I look forward to strengthening the bonds between Coromodir, Fronc and the other worlds of our nation.†He said carefully hoping the young Countess’ ambitions would not compete with those of Fronc.
Defensive action
Denebola, Wolf Empire
30th June 3114
Returning to service with the SLDF Major Morgan Christifori joins the Fourth Knights of the Sphere, the Second Royal ComGuard Brigade and the Northwind Rangers Brigade as the three commands supported by the WarShips SLS Invincible, SLS Venus and the SLS Victor Focht, the SLDF’s newest Enterprise II-class Super-carrier. Without naval forces in system of their own the Wolves lose air superiority within hours of the landings of the SLDF units. The Fifth Wolf Lancers, Twenty-seventh Wolf Champions and Seventh Mountain Wolf Clusters are destroyed by SLDF forces while the Elite Fourteenth Wolf Assault Lancers and Black Guards Clusters are driven off. The anger within Clan Wolf leadership crosses the Touman quickly with the Wolf leadership taking their anger out on the Hellion’s Nightmare Galaxy disbanding it and sending its warriors to other units to rebuild them while a senior Wolf Star Admiral is removed from his post.
In brighter news the Wolves are able to hold Avellaneda and Abadan from assaults by Free Worlds League forces forcing back the invading forces during the attack the Free Worlds League deploys three new combined arms regiments which have been built from troops originating across the nation. Formed as a new peacekeeping and support force the Free Worlds League Protectors Brigade is a new formation in the Free Worlds League and one controlled exclusively by the Parliament instead of regional forces. Within the Free Worlds League this new force is welcomed as a defence force but regional powers are wary over adding armed forces which they have no control over.
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Base Camp, McCoy’s Malcontents
Wittington, Periphery
9th July 3114
She’d been given clothing and she hadn’t been mistreated in anyway for pirates these guys were not normal, these were things that Amanda Cavalcanti was grateful for, however she was still their prisoner and her freedom was unlikely to return. She was also lucky that she didn’t have children as it was unlikely that she’d return home anytime soon. After a single jump and a couple of days burn back in system McCoy’s Malcontents, as these mercenary/pirates called themselves, were now heading for home Amanda was stunned when she left the DropShip that she was at a well-maintained spaceport facility instead of some dirt track in the middle of nowhere. She was loaded onboard a cargo truck and driven away from the landing zone.
Now nearly an hour into their journey over dirt tracks the truck turned off into a well-maintained fire base which had been built around a grand looking country home. The truck drove in a circle around the house and then turned down a hill entering a cave under the house. Inside the cave Amanda could see that there were several BattleMech maintenance cubicles and what looked like tunnels deeper underground, she also noticed several other Mechs were present in the Mechbay. The truck came to a standstill and Amanda was led out of the back of the vehicle and told to stand still by one of her guards. She watched as Schuyler McCoy’s modified Archer docked in the Mechbay, it was then followed by the other Mechs of his support lance and finally the four pondering UrbanMechs. McCoy left his Mech and climbed down the gantry of the Mechbay before heading over unlike many Inner Sphere MechWarriors he had no coolant suit instead he wore a vest and shorts inside the Mech and he hadn’t bothered getting dressed into anything else yet.
“Welcome to Wittington†McCoy said as he approached “you will be treated well as long as you behave here.â€
“Why do you take the UrbanMechs on raids when you’ve got all of these.†She said indicating around the bay the Mechs present were old, far older than McCoy’s Archer or his support lance but they were all capable designs. She looked down the numbers counting more than twenty BattleMechs including the two lances that McCoy had taken to Algenib.
“The UrbanMech is a right of passage if you can survive a battle in an UrbanMech then you can qualify for something bigger. We also have to garrison this world; the people trust us to keep them safe and independent.†He explained as a trailer dragging her broken Ebony Snake drove past them.
“How did you come across all these Mechs?†She asked curious about the Mechs origin some of these Mechs dated back to the eariest days of the BattleMech as a weapon of war.
“My father came here from the Federated Suns†McCoy explained “he didn’t want to join the AFFS after St Ives threw their lot in with the Suns. He and a few others came here hoping to make a life of their own. Along the way they raided several worlds netting them some of the Mechs you see present†he said “when my father came here he expected to build a home and retire however found the house you saw above abandoned the previous family long gone and he decided that would be his home. Under the house they found a vault with many of the Mechs present, it appears that whomever owned the house above stored these Mechs here to be used when they needed them and they never came back.â€
“This is a find that would allow most people to retire very wealthy!†Amanda pointed out
“Not all of them are fully functional, but yes some men could retire. My father chose to retire safely on this world, but I want to see all of these Mechs restored to their full capability.â€
“And you’ll do that any way you can†she said becoming annoyed that someone with so much potential wealth would abuse it like McCoy appeared to be.
“We only kill those we need to.†He said refusing to become angry at her “you’ll learn to understand. For now, we’ll make you comfortable.†He said indicating to the guards to take her away from him, she didn’t know what this place had in store for her.
Field Base Command, StarCorps Industries
Farrarrah, Annesland
Crofton, Nova Cat’s Den
11th July 3114
The office that once belonged to the head of the StarCorps Industries plant on Crofton now belonged to Khan Canin Rosse. He didn’t much like the room it was too cluttered with items that built up StarCorps as a company with small toy models of BattleMechs and vehicles produced by the company but it served him for today and that’s all that mattered. The door to the office swung open and in entered Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux she’d dyed her blonde hair red since his last encounter reminding Canin of Natasha Kerensky, he was sure she’d done it intentionally, otherwise her uniform was immaculate despite what she’d been through. “Welcome Star Admiral†he greeted her
“Welcome?†She snapped angrily sitting on the leather chair opposite him “have you heard what we went through?†She said astonished by his calm attitude “what they did to us?â€
“Aff, I read†Canin said quietly looking at her with hard eyes “we had not expected them to know where our Terminals were, we were wrong.†He said continuing his calm tone the Terminals were massive space stations each almost two million tons in size they were home to six thousand Nova Cats and used as trade and maintenance hubs by the Clan. Each of them also carried numerous support aerospace fighters, DropShips and marines.
“Wrong!†She shouted angrily “wrong, they jumped in out of nowhere and hit us hard!†She snapped “the Lucian Carns was obliterated in a single volley from their three damned Battleships. They hit us with eight WarShips even with my full star of WarShips we had no chance.†She said angrily. Canin had read the report House Davion had retaliated for the Nova Cats attacks in predictable fashion using their heavy stick navy against the Nova Cats supply lines. Somehow, they had discovered where one of the Nova Cats supply stations were, they had jumped in just as Alexandria’s WarShip star was cycling through the system.
“I read the report†he said calmly.
---
The former flagship of the star, the Lucian Carns had been obliterated in the opening volley from the Federated Suns forces the Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser having no chance to retaliate against them. Alexandria had been onboard the Nightlord II-class Battleship Sacred Rite at the time of the attack and had ralied her forces with the Sacred Rite breaking over the nose of the Federated Suns flagship the FSS Black Prince crippling the vessel’s main guns with a devastating broadside. Unfortunately, the Federated Suns counter attack had caused massive damage to the Sacred Rite leaving it to drift into deep space.
With Alexandria out of the fight onboard the Nova Cat’s largest vessel the Terminal commander had taken command of the star and ordered a desperate battle while Nova Cat JumpShips and two Carrack merchant ships escaped. The remaining five WarShips had attacked with the Black Lion White Aerie and two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers had cut down the port side of the Federated Suns formation tearing apart two Davion-class Destroyers that were protecting the three Battleships that anchored the formation before they themselves were destroyed by the Federated Suns armada’s combined firepower.
The remaining two Nova Cat WarShips the Tiglon, a Liger-class Strike Cruiser and Abrams, a Drake-class Corvette, had charged into the frey with the remaining DropShips and aerospace fighters supported by long range capital missile fire. On it’s approach the Abrams was torn to pieces by the heavier WarShips before it even got within weapons range. The Tiglon’s heavier frame charged into enemy formation shielding the small craft following it as the vessel approached it turned up towards the Black Prince intent on putting more damage on the massive Mercury-class vessel weapons had struck the vessel from multiple directions causing heavy damage forcing it off course and straight into one of the Federated Suns destroyers causing the destruction of both vessels.
As the battle came to a close the Nova Cat small craft and DropShips along with the Terminal fought to their last with one final Nova Cat victory coming as Nova Cat Elementals boarded the FSS Audacity, a First Prince II-class Battleship, as their transports were destroyed. The warriors had known their fate when they boarded the battleship and had no intention on surviving they made their way to the main magazines of the battleship killing anyone that got in their way before detonating massive charges which blew the nose off the battleship ending its fight.
This final act of defiance from the Nova Cats had sealed the fate of the Terminal and everyone who remained onboard the space station. Devastating blow after blow was delivered by the remaining Federated Suns WarShips ending its fight and cutting through its structure until the station was no more. Without bothering to recover any of the Nova Cat survivors the remaining Federated Suns vessels jumped back out of the system. Hours later the crippled Sacred Rite had returned to the area having recovered minimal maneuvering capability. Despite its damaged state the WarShip was able to pick up hundreds of escape pods from other vessels and the station before the Sacred Rite itself successfully jumped clear of the system finding an empty system nearby to shelter in. Additional Nova Cat vessels had rendezvoused with the ship and now repairs were beginning.
In all six Nova Cat WarShips, a Terminal station and thousands of personnel had been lost in the action with another vessel crippled, on the other side four Federated Suns vessels also being destroyed and another crippled. By far it had been the bloodiest battle of the conflict so far and the Nova Cats had been on the wrong side of the result.
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“We cannot return the firepower they have at their disposal.†Rosse said finally “we now know how the Taurians felt when we attacked them quiaff?†Alexandria winced when the truth hit her. The Taurians hadn’t had WarShips to fight the Nova Cats honourably so they had resorted to using nuclear weapons to level the playing field now the Nova Cats were feeling the brunt of the Federated Suns retaliation. “I believe I said as much before this.†He said trying not to sound like he was saying “I told you so.â€
“Aff, now what?â€
“We started this conflict now we are in for the long haul. Alpha Galaxy embarrassed their Heavy Guards here but I have confirmed we have lost contact with forces on Kiza, Rentz and Ankou as well.â€
“So, they have opened a second front on us quiaff? We’ll struggle to maintain defences against two fronts even if they do not have the location of all of our colonies the Federated Suns could do plenty damage.â€
“Aff, they could, we are over extended.†He said pointing out “which is why I have decided we need to take another approach.†He said activating some table controls which brought up a holographic image of the space around Crofton. While the StarCorps office was too much for the Khan he did like some of the features. “Star Admiral, I am assigning you to the WarShip Excalibur. It still looks enough like an Avalon-class for it to pass. You are to proceed to the system of Charleston and broadcast a message to the the Second Watch Cluster which are currently there.â€
“Charleston? That’s in the Gaenir Collective, quiaff?†She asked naming the distant periphery state.
“Affâ€
“You are sidelining me!†She said angrily she was young and didn’t fully understand his thoughts on the matter.
“Neg, I am not.†He said “the trip to Charleston will take you the better part of three months.†He explained “once you have reached transmission position and the Second have received the message you will procced to the Federated Suns Hadrian’s Command.†He said suddenly her anger turned into a smile.
“They show their intelligence has found things and we show ours has found things?†She said seeing an opportunity for glory again.
“Aff, you will defend yourself if required, you will broadcast your identity and then you will leave the system. I want the Federated Suns worried about what we could do if we wanted, you are not to attack their stations for now.â€
“It would be easier if I went directly there, we have forces in the expansion zone they could pass your message.†She protested
“Neg, you lost a WarShip star Alexandria†he said to words slowly even as she began to protest, as he did he rose from his chair “you did. Regardless of the odds against you they were lost under your command. I need to sideline you or you will face trial after trial.â€
“Which I can face!†She protested she had not risen to her current rank without fighting.
“Neg, our Clan does not need our senior Admiral defending her position from petty duels!†Canin
pointed out raising his voice, he hadn’t wanted this conflict but he’d fight it his way. “I need the Clan focused and focused on the Federated Suns.†Rosse explained.
“What message am I passing to the Second Watch?â€
“The Nova Cats are pulling out of the Expansion Zone.†Rosse said “we punished the Taurian Concordat drove them from their worlds and have no doubt improved the life of many of the people there we have done enough with that distraction. Instead the forces there are going to attack Malagrotta and the worlds around it. We are going to open our own second front and see how the Federated Suns likes it.†He announced “I want the Taurians and Gaenir fighting over what we leave behind for them our agents on Taurus will ensure that they are also aware that we are withdrawing.â€
“Politics should be left to the Ravens and the Falcons†Alexandria protested she didn’t like how he was playing the other two nations against each other.
“Aff, but sometimes we need to dabble.†He explained “now rest up, you have got a long journey in front of you.†He said returning to his desk with that she was dismissed the fondness and closeness that they had once shared appeared to be gone. She knew she had failed him, she had pushed for this conflict for the good of their Clan and she had failed him Rosse had built the Nova Cat’s home and he wouldn’t let it fall under his watch.
Capellan Confederation offensive
Free Worlds League
13th July 3114
In retaliation for the fighting that took place on Hassad all seven of the Capellan Confederation’s Warrior Houses with the armoured cavalry regiments in support assault the Free Worlds League hitting the systems of New Delos, Carbonis, Las Halles and Varna. In the Carbonis system the CCSS Chancellor’s Destiny, a Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleship, destroys the vessel OPS Hamilton allowing ground forces to land.
On the ground the three Free Worlds League units on Carbonis drive off the Capellans but they are able to inflict damage on each from high oribit the Chancellor’s Destiny fires several rounds to keep the FWL units at bay but without actually striking their opponents. The Free Worlds League defences on Las Halles and New Delos are also able to drive off the Capellan raiders but Varna falls to Capellan attacks.
Following the attach on Carbonis the FWL government complain to the Capellan Confederation for the actions of the Chancellor’s Destiny but due to the lack of casualties caused by the strike they take no further action.
Clan skirmishes
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
23rd July 3114
As Clan Coyote land forces on Symington and Auldhouse begins to show the fractured nation of the Clans with Clan Ghost Bear cutting into the backs of the Coyote forces capturing Dalkeith, Grumlum, Gunzburg and Skandia in a series of Trials of Possession. The Hell’s Horses also claim Carstairs, Breukelen and Kirkcaldy from the Jade Falcons further fragmenting the Clan’s front lines.
The Jade Falcons retaliate against the Hell’s Horses striking at the Horse’s newest jewel Arcturus keeping the Clan forces there uneasy. The Jade Falcon strike on Hell’s Horses positions also reveal that some of the Lyran resistance forces are still active on the recently lost world.
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Love the McCoy's Malcontents name!
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Love the McCoy's Malcontents name!
A name based on a group of minis I saw painted and thought time to make a new story around.
Exercise Run
Colleen, Deep Periphery
Clan Homeworlds
1st August 3114
Sometimes even a Khan just needed to get away from everything, with modern technology they could easily be in contact with command in moments and back within a command centre in hours, in Khan Alex Lassenem’s case today was one of those days yesterday had been a bad day for the surviving Clans in the Homeworlds. He’d needed a run and he’d run into the forests of Colleen.
After liberating Grant’s Station from Society and Dark Caste forces the Society had responded by detonating nuclear warheads buried under each major settlement on the planet essentially turning the once fertile world into a nuclear wasteland. Lassenem had ordered as much of the population evacuated as possible but the losses were high. Leading to his run far from the nearest Blood Spirits settlement on the planet into the wilderness of one of the few safe places in the Clan Homeworlds his people still successfully held Collen, Glory, Sheridan, New Kent and Hector successfully defending them with the Goliath Scorpions from Society incursions. Recently the Goliath Scorpions had colonized a new world known as Arizona which was on the far side of the Clan Homeworlds from Colleen and was intended on being the Goliath Scorpion’s new primary holding.
Unfortunately, the Clan’s greatest difficulty at present was their inability to build new WarShips Alex had tried for months to assemble the components to build a working shipyard but time and again they had failed to construct a working facility. Instead the Blood Spirits were forced to rely on capturing Society vessels or raiding weapons caches their most recent accusation had been three Molniya-class Corvettes originally build by Clan Wolf but abandoned after they found the ships were difficult to maintain the Blood Spirits didn’t have an option but to press them into service.
As he ran, he thought about different scenarios that his Clan could take to counter their weaknesses against the Society there was so much to think about. The Goliath Scorpions had begun to produce the Sun Bear OmniMech at their factory here on Colleen and they planned to build it on Arizona too further bolstering their medium Mech forces but still the Clan forces were badly outnumbered. One of his advisers had suggested taking one of their recommissioned Molniyas to the Inner Sphere to call on support from the other Clans…
Stopping his run for a moment Alex thought through the idea he wanted to head to the Inner Sphere personally to deal with the dezgra Stone Spritis but his desire for revenge had to wait until the Clan Homeworlds were liberated as for the other Clans. The Clans had abandoned their Homeworlds chasing down the dream of conquering Terra and becoming the ilClan. Of the Clans in the Inner Sphere the Bears, Nova Cats, Foxes and Ravens were most likely to return but all of them were significantly bigger than his Clan… once again the Blood Spirits would be the junior member of Clan society… which he didn’t like. Dealing with the Society was his mission, his Clan’s lasting legacy to the memory of Nicholas Kerensky.
Thanks to their successes against the Society and their successful defence of multiple systems against the dezgra scientists the Blood Spirits had fully reconstituted The Blooding, Blood Redeemers and the Bloody Resistance Galaxies each with five clusters while the Goliath Scorpions had successfully put back together two Galaxies of troops, still they were outnumbered by the Society and Dark forces. Each time he brought enough forces against them the Society retreated and used weapons of mass destruction or orbital bombardment scattering his people.
As he stood in the middle forest on the rough path suddenly things did not feel right things were too quiet. He turned on the spot his right-hand drifting towards his gauss pistol sidearm as his hand grasped the weapon, he felt the ground rock beneath him. Unlike the Blood Spirits previous home of York Colleen was not majorly tectonically active suddenly from beneath the ground a massive creature climbed out of the ground.
Coloured red the animal was clearly a mutated/modified scorpion with six powerful legs, two curved claws and a curved rear tail stinger. Alex dodged backwards away from the creature as its left claw swung out. Alex was aware of almost every species on Colleen and he didn’t know this one. As the claw sung past him again, he saw pronged hair sticking from the side of the claw, it reminded him of the mane of a Nova Cat, the swipe missed him again as he drew his pistol aiming down at the beast, he fired a shot into it. The creature’s armoured hide stood up to the strike and swung at him again this time it connected with his stomach ripping through his work out t-shirt but failing to penetrate the skin.
Alex rolled the opposite direction away from the beast as scorpion’s stinger struck out towards where he had been the sprayer sending an acidic substance onto the rocks and trees beside him. Alex grunted knowing no natural creature could spray such a substance he turned the pistol on it again and fired several shots into the scorpion’s side. The Scorpion’s blood spilled out from his hits but it then turned and swung its claws at him again fortunately missing. Alex fired another shot between its solid black eyes and ran knowing fine his pistol was out of shots and that the beast wasn’t going to be stopped so easily. He saw a large tree that would support his weight and jumped up grabbing a large branch he pulled as hard as he could launching himself up off the ground just as the scorpion’s pincers swung where his legs would have been. The scorpion’s stinger shot out more of the acidic goo burning into the tree.
High enough to be out of the creature’s reach Alex replaced the ammunition cartridge in his weapon and reached for his communicator, knowing he’d need help. He noticed it was gone and frantically began to look around seeing the communicator laying on the trail where he had been standing “stavag!†He muttered angrily. Trying to put the thought out of his head he took aim with his pistol and fire again into the creature but he knew he had no chance of defeating it with his pistol. He’d have to bide his time and hope that the tree held up and his enemy became tired.
Hours past and Alex Lassenum had felt himself begin to drift off to sleep several times but he was resisting it, he couldn’t take the chance of sleeping then falling off the branch. By now he knew that his subordinates would be looking for him, but he also knew the scorpion was in the area hearing it every now and then moving below in the growing darkness. He’d thought about it and while the Society probably would release such a creature they didn’t know where Colleen was, his Watch were good enough to have stopped their intelligence in its tracks, so there was only one likely cause for this beast’s origin and that was Clan Goliath Scorpion why they had created and released such a deadly alpha predator onto the world was beyond him. He raised the pistol into the air and fire a single shot he’d decided that if the weapon couldn’t penetrate the scorpion’s armour, he’d try a different tactic and use it like a signal flare.
The action attracted the scorpion’s attention and he felt another thump against the tree as one of its pincers and then the other collided with it again the tree withstood the attack. Alex began wondering how long he’d have to wait for help to arrive but before he could contemplate waiting longer help in its most unlikely form arrived.
He didn’t know if they’d been attracted by his pistol fire, the noise created by the scorpion’s attack against the tree or the smell of the scorpion’s blood but from the shadows two massive smoke jaguar big cats leapt onto the scorpion. From their attack Alex guessed the animals had been observing for a while as one jumped directly on the scorpion’s tail pinning its dangerous stinger into the ground tearing at the limb as the other jumped directly onto the massive scorpion. The scorpion’s size and strength was demonstrated as it continued to try and move as the jaguars launched their attacks tearing at its armoured hide with their incredibly sharp claws. While Alex’s pistol had not been particularly effective the jaguars sustained attacks quickly proved effective with a piercing scream the scorpion’s tail was ripped from its body spilling blood everywhere behind while the other jaguar’s claws tore into the scorpion’s back tearing at its organs. It was a methodical, vicious slaughter which Alex was witnessing the two jaguars showing exactly why Nicholas Kerensky had chosen it as Totem animal of the Clan.
Alex remained in the tree for an hour as the two smoke jaguars finished off the scorpion and then ate what they could of the animal leaving only its armoured carcass and its deadly tail. They then disappeared into the darkened forest around Alex. He allowed them to leave before jumping down and grabbing the communicator calling for extraction he was glad he’d insisted on his teams recovering as many of the Clan’s totem animals as possible and resettling them on Colleen far from the Society’s influences.
---
It took an hour for the Blood Spirits to arrive and take Alex back to a command bunker. There he’d learned the true scale of this crisis eighteen attacks had been recorded all over Colleen with massive civilian casualties when the attacks had occurred in open areas. “Get me the Scorpions… NOW!†Alex demanded standing in the command bunker still wearing his ripped running gear a few minutes later the image of Khan Ingo Yeh appeared, the man did not look well. “Khan Yeh, explain what the hell is going on and tell my why you have betrayed us!†He said angrily.
“It… it was a mistake.†Yeh stammered over the worlds “Khan Lassenum, my Clan was developing a weapon that could be released onto an enemy world before an invasion and sow chaos. One of our scientists released them into the wild believing they deserved to live free and not be used as weapons. She has paid the price of her actions with her own life.†He explained the use of animals as weapons was distasteful but not anything worse than what the Society had done.
“That is not enough. Hundereds of people that my Clan has safeguarded from the Society are dead. You understand a price has to be paid and shown in public, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, Khan Lassenum, I am ready to answer for my Clan.†Yeh responded surprising Lassenum with his willingness to answer his challenge himself. “Name your place and I will meet you in combat.â€
---
The next day Alex Lassenum was onboard his personal Osteon deep inside the OmniMech’s torso mounted cockpit near the Windsheer Falls a freshwater waterfall between Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion territory. The eighty-five-ton OmniMech originally belonged to the Society but he’d used it in an operation against them and had kept it as his own. Against him he watched as one of the new Sun Bear OmniMechs walked out into the space, this had to be a joke the Mech weighed thirty tons less than his Osteon this wouldn’t be a fight it would be a slaughter. “Khan Alex Lassenum, I am ready to answer for my Clan’s mistakesâ€
“Ingo, I am ready to offer you the honourable way out, use your own Mech.â€
“Neg, the Sun Bear will serve my Clan in the future it is a symbol of our rebirth. I will show that it can fight.â€
“Understood, fight well.â€
“Seylaâ€
“Seyla†Alex replied immediately rising the Osteon’s two arms letting rip with his Hyper Assault Gauss Rifle and a wave of improved advanced tactical missiles. The gauss rifle shots sand-blasted all over the arms, torso and legs of the Mech. The missiles followed the hit blanketing the Mech in explosions, electronic noise and flame. The lighter Mech wasn’t finished yet firing its ultra autocannon and lasers at the Osteon. The assault autocannon tore through his Mech’s torso armour exposing massive chunks of its reinforced skeleton. The Sun Bear’s pulse lasers burned across the Mech’s torso but its extended range lasers missed their mark.
On his sensors Alex could see that the Sun Bear was near the point of overheating its systems struggling to cope with the attack and his magnetic pulse missiles. Instead of following up with more missiles he added several pulse lasers to a second volley of gauss rifle fire into the Sun Bear. The OmniMech weathered the attack although Alex could see the lighter design was struggling as gauss rifle slugs and lasers peppered the hull. To Ingo Yeh’s credit he didn’t give up after the attack instead he tried to attack again firing the autocannon on its own shells tore up the ground all around the Osteon but caused little in the way of damage. Alex returned fire with far more accurate fire to the still Sun Bear.
“I am sorry Alex†Ingo Yeh broadcast as the improved inferno ammunition exploded over the Sun Bear, Alex’s gauss rifles slugs slammed into the Mech moments later gutting the Sun Bear’s torso and cockpit killing the Goliath Scorpion Khan. Alex stood silent and watched the burning OmniMech topple backwards landing on its back there was no rushing to check if the pilot was alive, everyone watching knew he was already gone. Alex had been involved in the return of the Goliath Scorpions to Colleen saving the Clan from becoming lost in the periphery and now he’d killed their leader, a man he considered to be a friend.
Four days later new Khan Freema Kirov becomes the leader of the Goliath Scorpions. Now that the Goliath Scorpions have Arizona as a world of their own Kirov agrees to remove the Goliath Scorpions from Colleen leaving the Blood Spirits with their home but she also agrees to continue operations with the Blood Spirits against the Society.
Field Office, Irian News Network
Kirin River, Irian
Star League Protectorate
19th August 3114
There was a gentle knock at the door and Marshal… no, General Richard Steiner rose from his chair straightening his new SLDF uniform as the door swung open revealing his wife, and the mother of his children, Duchess Kym Hasek liege lord of the Capellan March in the Federated Suns. She was as beautiful as the day she had met him when they’d both served in the unit he’d now taken from the Federated Suns and into the Star League Defence Force.
“Duchess, welcome to Irian†he said formally as she entered the News Network office Richard had commandeered as a command post. There was nothing in the room personal to him but she scanned the room not even looking at him.
“You couldn’t even meet me at landing?†She asked not looking at him instead picking up a small metal model of a Marauder II BattleMech.
“We have been busy†he said bluntly Clan Wolf were a constant menace to Irian at present, and the Uhlans were converting over to SLDF uniforms and supplies. The Uhlans were changing every day and it was upto him to make sure they were ready so far, the SLDF had agreed to rebuild the unit to its previous full Regimental Combat Team Federated Suns structure. They were also sending the unit masses of new trainees trained in the standard SLDF training meaning he had a lot of retraining to do.
“So, I saw outside†she said still walking around the office before finally looking at him, he could see her eyes were watering. “Why are you still here?†he could tell by her voice that she was talking about him and not just his unit.
“We’ve got a responsibility to the people here, we were saved by the SLDF and brought here away from the Capellan border, something the Federated Suns failed to do time and again.†He pointed out stating the facts. “My people feel they owe the SLDF for their actions, we have an enemy here that could devastate humanity.â€
“I understand the consensus within the unit. The Federated Suns had the firepower to get you out, but the military failed to it would have resulted in a major war, but they could have done it.†She conceded “So, I understand the unit’s decision. I don’t agree with it and I think that the Kathil Uhlans should be able to return to Kathil with honour.†She said emphasizing where the unit was from. “But that choice has been made. My question is why are you here when you family are on Kathil.†She said he’d heard she had arrived on the planet alone their children had remained on the Capellan March’s capital world.
“I miss my family greatly; I have for the last two years.†He said he’d sent messages from Las Halles in the Free Worlds League, but never had a response to be fair he didn’t know if his messages had gone through. “But my duty is…â€
“To the First Prince, the person you swore your loyalty to.†She snapped “You should come home.â€
“My oath to the First Prince was to protect those in need, my unit needs me, there is a mission that needs done. I showed loyalty to the Federated Suns until the Federated Suns left us on our own at the arse end of the Free Worlds League!†He snapped back “They abandoned us, Duchess, I had more support from the leader of Las Halles than I did from my own wife!†He said angrily her eyes meeting his as the truth came out, he felt betrayed by her inaction to rescue his unit. In his eyes leaders of the Capellan March were supposed to stand for their people, and she couldn’t even stump up to support her husband’s units.
“My hands were tied, I asked Burton to act on your behalf he refused. He’s more concerned with holding our borders, the Draconis Combine, the Nova Cats, the Capellans all threaten us daily and your sat here…†When she’d left the Federated Suns the nation was engaged with the Nova Cats on one border and now since landing the Draconis Combine had pushed into the Draconis March as far as Crossing in a rapid invasion which had exposed how threadbare the Draconis March had been left by the invasion and defence of Benjamin and the salient of worlds that were near it. They couldn’t face everyone.
“Holding back the Wolves.†He said calmer this time there were threats everywhere he now faced those he’d been fighting for months; they were a bigger threat at the moment. “I go where I am ordered, I serve those in need, I serve with the people who have my back. The Federated Suns and SLDF are allies, the people in this unit could go home at anytime.â€
“But you won’t come home to us?â€
“I think the time we’ve had apart has proven that duty is a burden we both share, and one that is perhaps more of an influence than other things.†He said calmly “I belong here now; you have duties at home.†He said trying to keep this as painless as he could, they had met when they served together now duty was separating them.
“And what about your children? Do you not have a duty to them?â€
“I hope to see them again as soon as it is possible.†He said he missed Andreas and Rebecca deeply but he’d had time from them taken away and now the Uhlans choice also separated them. “I’ll see them again in the future, if you are willing to let me.â€
“You’re their father. The door will always be open you’ll always be welcome at home.†She said finally looking around the room “Is this us?†She said finally approaching the topic they’d both danced around.
“Perhaps†Richard admitted pausing before speaking again “perhaps in time we will both approach things differently.†He suggested, “for now we are on slightly different paths†he said rather bluntly.
“Should your path take you back to Kathil you will be welcome General†she said finally looking at him. “Good luck, Richard to you and your Uhlans.†She said and without another word she walked from the room. After a few minutes the side door to the office opened and Freema Smit, former Prefect of Las Halles stepped into the room.
“I’m sorry†she said stepping into the room, she’d heard their discussion it had been nearly impossible to miss.
“It’s not your fault.†He said quietly pretending to read reports putting both his wife and Freema to the side. “Duty drives us.â€
“Yes, even when it causes us pain†she said moving over to one of the couches. “Do you think she suspects?†She asked sitting down opposite him “about us?†She asked the loaded question that was between them.
“While she likely doesn’t know fully about “us†but she knows that as the Duchess of the Capellan March she abandoned me and the Uhlans. For now, that’s all she needs to know for certain, allow that hurt to land before I add to her hurt.†He explained continuing to read the reports.
“She’s the duchess of a House region she has resources which will allow her to see exactly what you are upto… and who with.â€
“That’s her choice†he said looking up at her “I’ve made my choice; I know who was there for me when I needed them.†He explained making it clear he meant her.
Trial of Position
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
25th August 3114
During a routine initial Trial of Position on Sheridan one of the candidates makes a name for himself by taking down three opponents in his Trial. While not an extraordinary feat for a Trueborn warrior Alaric Wolf’s third kill happens to be the other Cadet Wolf pilot who is in the Trial with Alaric executing the other pilot with a particle cannon blast from one of his customized Blood Reaper’s main guns. Further adding to the mystery of Star Captain Alaric Wolf his blood heritage is not exactly clear as he stands for no house during his Trial of Position despite being a trueborn warrior due to his lack of a house he is assigned to the newly formed Ninth Wolf Guards cluster a unit made up of mostly freeborn warriors using standard Inner Sphere and modified Inner Sphere BattleMechs.
Border skirmishes
Nova Cat’s Den/Federated Suns
30th August 3114
The border skirmish between Clan Nova Cat and the Federated Suns continues as Clan Nova Cat invade the world of Minette crushing remnants of the Fourth New Avalon Guards RCT which had been rebuilding on the world. The much depleted Fourth New Avalon are no match for two full clusters of the Nova Cat’s recently raised Zeta Galaxy made up mostly of recently graduated ristar warriors the men and women of Zeta Galaxy wish to prove their worth to Clan Nova Cat.
Things do not go completely the Nova Cat’s way however as Federated Suns forces push the Nova Cats off Symsonia, Des Aro and Zolfo severely damaging the Nova Cat forces on all three worlds forcing them deeper into the Nova Cat’s Den.
One setback the Federated Suns has is from an unexpected source. The Twenty-first Illician Lancers Regiment raid the world of Merowinger intent on driving home the Federated Suns intentions in stopping the Nova Cats and driving them back into their own territory however as the unit assaults the world their DropShips are hit by a wave of capital and sub-capital missiles fired from the surface of the world. Heavily damaged before they even make it fully into the atmosphere the Illician Lancers detect several Verne Cargo Subs which are sitting on the surface of Merowinger’s main ocean launching missiles from their cargo holds. How the Nova Cats gained access to the Inner Sphere class of Submarine was a question for another day for the Illician Lancers they were a problem for today and one they could not fully counter. Under the hail of fire, the Lancers land only to be engaged and destroyed by elements of the 454th Nova Cat Pouncer Cluster which were prepared to engage them as soon as the DropShips landed. This use of a planetary defence system is a first for the Nova Cats or any of the other Clans as far as the Federated Suns are aware.
-
I'll be going back to the break away story - Foresight - soon but for now another update.
Meeting Room, Gulf Breeze Station
Gulf Breeze, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
14th September 3114
One wall of the meeting room was dominated by massive floor-to-roof screens that gave views outside of the Gulf Breeze Station giving the impression that they were looking out windows while infact they were deep inside the space station. Commanding-General Victor Focht found the huge screens a little offputting but they did offer a spectacular view of the moon which the station was anchored to over Gulf Breeze Five and of the Star League Defence Force’s newest WarShip the SLS Indianapolis an eight hundred and thirty thousand ton vessel of a class with the same name. The vessel was officially classed as a Heavy Cruiser but the SLDF planned to use it and its three sister ships the SLS Bon Accord, SLS Endurance and SLS Nathan Hale as training ships for the SLDF military. The fact that the ships carried a significant amount of firepower and were capable of independent military operations was a fortunate coincidence. Turning away from the view he looked at one of the administrators here on Gulf Breeze Dame Annie Christopher, she was in her eighties but a life in space without the stresses of planetary gravity or weather made her look twenty years younger, she was thin but muscular not gaunt, her skin was pale her hair still featuring its brown colour of her youth. “An impressive vessel Commanding-Generalâ€
“Yes, she is we’re quite pleased with it.†He said “the Indianapolis will take up station at Swartklip along with its support vessels. She will be a deep space training and patrol vessel. During training future naval officers, DropShip crews and fighter pilots will be assigned to one of the Indianapolis-class vessels for on the job training.â€
“A very large and well armed vessel for training operations.†Annie Christopher noted most nations assigned training crews to far smaller vessels.
“Yes, due to the areas these vessels will be deployed we decided to over engineer the vessel for its task. If required these ships can assist Star League facilities, participate in fleet operations or remain independent.†He explained “which leads to me to the reason we are here today. We wish to purchase a Wheeler-class Station which will be assembled in the Swartklip system.â€
“That will not be an easy task†Annie Christopher said surprised by the idea the Wheeler-class was a common sight in the Gulf Breeze system but the reason for that was the station used to construct them was based here. “Commanding-General, the Wheeler-class Station is two hundred thousand tons in weight and they are over twelve hundred metres in width they cannot be jumped from system to system in one piece it takes a lot of preparation and work.â€
“We are aware however while there is a dozen in the Swartklip system that could fit our purposes they are currently being used for mining operations. As the world is under SLDF protection we wish to show the people that we are willing to put in the leg work and provide them with the support that is needed. Such a station will be a symbol of SLDF support for the system and for Gulf Breeze as we will be providing people in this system with jobs as well.â€
“Only two Wheeler-class stations are built a year inside the Spider. Most of the time they are to replace aging stations that are coming to the end of their lives. Building one for such a specialist operation will take significant time and money.â€
“Which the SLDF will be willing to help compensate you with and assist the LCAF in the Gulf Breeze system as well as Swartklip. The SLS Tidesurge, an Antares-class Support Vessel, is assisting operations and maintenance of local stations in the Swartklip station. We will detour them for one month in a year to Gulf Breeze where they will assist in an maintenance operations that are required.†He suggested he knew that the LCAF would accept such support if the people on Gulf Breeze Station were happy with the assistance but he could tell that was not enough for Annie Christopher. “Also given Gulf Breeze’s history dating back to the original Star League-era perhaps you could make room for a research team here on the station?†He suggested “perhaps a dozen historical researchers plus support personnel and room for any visitors from the Swartklip garrison or Star League Command. Room for two hundred personnel and research space? The space and resources will be paid for by the Star League of course.†He said suggesting the SLDF take on a permanent presence on the station and that they’d be willing to pay for it had the impact he was hoping for from Dame Annie Christopher the support the Tidesurge could offer the system wouldn’t hurt but the money, that’s what made the wheels move in this system.
“I think we could come to some sort of agreement there.†Annie Christopher suggested “we’ve actually been developing a transportable version of the Wheeler for customers in the Commonwealth.â€
“You have? How fortunate†Victor muttered after all that they had some sort of solution waiting in the wings waiting for the right gullible customer, he wondered for a moment how many times the people on Gulf Breeze had pulled this kind of act.
“Because of the potential support you could offer the Gulf Breeze system, and because you’ll be operating one of our stations in the future, perhaps it would be better if we provided you with something other than space?†She suggested
“Oh yes?â€
“How about the SLDF take over one of the older Wheeler stations in the Gulf Breeze system? It is a perfectly serviceable station, it would give your crews practical experience in using one of the Wheeler-class stations and will give your researchers access to Gulf Breeze Station whenever they need it.â€
“An interesting idea, and this older station would it be much different than the one you’d be building for us?†Victor Focht asked wondering if the movable station was going to be completely different from the older model she was offering.
“I wouldn’t have thought so, our newer models are only different in how they are being constructed overall all Wheeler’s are very similar a flying gravity deck in space capable of housing ten thousand souls.â€
“I think we can make something work.†Victor said he wasn’t sure what the SLDF would do with all the space but having a base of operations separate from the Gulf Breeze Station would be helpful. Until the station was operational in the Swartklip system the SLDF could at least use the base as a training hub. “I’ll detour the SLS Tidesurge to the system their crews can make sure the station is ready for our peoples needs what is the name of the station?â€
“The Myrtle Maud†Annie Christopher answered with a smile “some of the locals have called her Mad Maud due to some of her previous occupants, she’s about one hundred years old plenty life left in her, she’s about an hours 1G flight from here just outside the outer ring of Gulf Breeze Five. She was upgraded with heavier armour a few years ago due to increased micro meteor impacts not due to any other issue.â€
“We’ll be assigning a Castrum-class DropShip to the system to act as a guard ship for her if anyone did think about causing issues, along with a marine force.†Victor said wondering if micro-meteor impacts were all they’d have to worry about. With an entire station for their use they could use it as a training base, combining operations on Swartklip, Gulf Breeze and the SLS Indianapolis to create an SLDF hub out here. It would take some convincing with command and the council be he was sure he could sell it.
“They’ll be welcome visitors†Annie Christopher said without hesitation knowing that the additional personnel working through the system would bring even more revenue into the system. Victor Focht turned back towards the screen wall and looked at the Indianapolis he’d come to see the ship to its new assignment and to hopefully buy a new station. It looked like he’d somehow gotten two stations and was well on his way to building a new Training Hub in Lyran space.
Capellan Confederation Re-organisation
Victoria, Victoria Commonality
Capellan Confederation
22nd September 3114
The Capellan Confederation add several more worlds to their periphery region recolonizing several worlds abandoned over the years and resetablishing contact with worlds that had simply be left to fend for themselves. Not all the worlds peacefully accept Capellan rule again but few have a choice when faced against the military forces of the CCAF. The Capellan Confederation also reorganise their internal workings with the world of Victoria re-established as a Commonality Capital splitting world from the Andurien Commonality and in a deal with the Taurian Concordat the Capellan Confedration take over the systems of Mendham, Robstart and Horsham in exchange for resources, enough BattleMechs to equip an entire regiment and three Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvettes.
The Capellans moving further into the Taurian sphere of influence focuses the Taurians on House Davion instead of the nation continuously watching for further Clan Nova Cat intrusions. The WarShips also give the nations additional security to a nation that has spend vast resources on attempting to build such vessels themselves and been knocked down each time by external threats, while the regiment of Mechs allows them to form three additional Taurian Hussar combined-arms regiments strengthening two of their regional forces.
Chaos Irregulars Basecamp
Molokai, District of Bowang
Free Worlds League
23rd September 3114
The basecamp of the Chaos Irregulars on Molokai was a quiet place when Naomi Wrangler arrived which was quite strange, the world of Molokai was deep inside the Free Worlds League but normally mercenary bases were loud places here everything appeared to be quite subdued, the Chaos Irregulars were just going around their day to day business. Her vehicle was challenged at the gate by some infantry troopers and she was directed to the visitor’s car park beside the command building. The building itself looked ancient and probably had been on the planet since humans colonized Molokai. She was again pleased when she was challenged by more of the Chaos Irregulars infantry at the entrance to the building, when it was confirmed she was expected she was given a visitor pass and directed into the reception area. While they were not loud or typical of mercenary commands she’d encountered, her own Thunder Road included, but they were at least professional.
Inside in stark contrast to the outside she found the reception to be a well set out modern office, which had obviously been renovated into the old building at some point she doubted it had been done by the Irregulars and she found it to be a shame considering the history of the building something more traditional would be better, regardless as she entered the young man at the desk rose with a smile he was well dressed in a white shirt and blue tie. Given what she’d seen of the Irregulars military uniform she assumed that this was a local civilian hire the Irregulars had made. It was the nature of the mercenary life each place commands went they tended to hire a couple of dozen civilians to assist with administration, help keep the base clean and about a hundred different tasks that the mercenaries just didn’t have the personnel for. “Good morning Lt Colonel Wrangler†the man said he’d obviously been made aware of her arrival “I have made Colonel Peregrine-Simpson aware of your arrival she is currently inspecting an issue we’ve found with one of the BattleMechs. She should be ready for your appointment soon.†He explained.
“I’m actually here to see Colonel Chowla†she explained the man looked surprised “I believe my appointment with Colonel Simpson is later, I arrived early for a personal visit.†She said since seeing Jake Chowla on Bowang Wrangler had been worried about him and decided to check in on the grieving co-leader of the Chaos Irregulars.
“Of course, my apologies Lt Colonel†the young man said “at present Jake is… not in the officeâ€
“I know†Wrangler added “Colonel Simpson made me aware of his condition, I’ll see him in his quarters.†She explained the receptionist looked surprised but quickly checked the permissions and saw she had been cleared.
“Of course his room is on the third floor fourth room on the right, I will make Colonel Simpson aware you have arrived.â€
“Thank you†she said spying a jug of water on the desk “may I borrow that?†She asked the man looked at the jug then back at Wrangler before picking it up and handing it over.
“Of course, I’ll just fetch you a pair of glasses†he said turning around opening a cupboard by the time he’d turned back towards where Wrangler had been with the glasses she was gone.
---
The third floor almost felt like a hotel instead of a military base with several rooms set out either side of the main stairwell and lifts. Naomi Wrangler reached Jocoam Chowla’s room and knocked after a few moments without an answer she knocked again and then a third time “Jake!†She called out trying to get his attention. Towards the end of the corridor another member of the Irregulars came out of their room to head to their duties. Instead of causing any further scene Naomi Wrangler reached into her jacket pocket and produced a magnetic pass flicking it over the lock on the right side of the door. The magnetic lock flicked off and the door popped open.
Entering the room Naomi heard the gingle and chink of several cans and bottles hitting each other as she pushed the door open. Jake Chowla’s personal quarters were a mess even in the darkness of the room she could see dozens of bottles and cans laying on the floor. Sprawled on the bed still wearing his kaki coloured work overalls laid Colonel Jocoam Chowla a bottle of local wine propped up on the pillow beside him. “Wakey, Wakey! Colonel, rise and shine it’s time to go to work!†She shouted but he didn’t move. “Jake, get up!†She shouted using his name this time he moved when she spoke but still remained crashed out on the bed. “You’ll thank me later†she said raising the jug of water and in one fluid motion emptying the iced cold water over the sleeping man.
The reaction to being hit by the cold water was immediate and as Naomi had expected violent Jake leapt from the bed the wine bottle suddenly in his hand. Naomi didn’t wait instead she grabbed his incoming arm and used his drunken momentum against him ducking as she flipped him over her shoulder. Jocoam Chowla flew over her shoulder and slammed fully into the bottles and cans that littered the floor with an audible crash. Within a moment of the crash the Irregular that Naomi had seen before was at the door his hand on his sidearm. “Move on soldier, nothing to see here†Naomi said looking up at him flashing her visitor pass as she grabbed Jake’s arm and dragged the hulk of a man to the bathroom.
Within a moment Jocoam Chowla was laying in the shower under a constant stream of water. “Wake up Jake! Time to do some work.†She said to him even though he wasn’t looking at him.
“Not funny Aletha†he mumbled under his breath.
“I’m not your wife Jake†Naomi Wrangler said sorrowfully knowing the loss he felt, she’d lost her mother three years before to pneumonia she, and her father, still felt her loss today. “I’m sorry†she said refering to his loss not the wake up call. She’d seen her father go through bouts of this since their collective loss. “It’s Naomi Wrangler, from Bowang, I came here looking to see if you wanted a job?â€
“Chaos Irregulars are out of the market of doing other ******** work.†Jake cursed looking at her.
“You need to get back to work Colonel, it’s the only way.â€
“I don’t need to do anything!†He snapped “I don’t need to do anything for anyone every again!†She said his anger boiling over.
“Yes you do†another voice said from behind Naomi, she turned to see the other Co-Commander of the Chaos Irregulars Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson. She was close to Jake’s age she had a slightly lighter skin tone and a far lighter build. “We need you Jake†she said looking down at the man who still laid in the shower “and the Irregulars need the work†she said addressing Wrangler “I can send a battalion to support your efforts Colonel Wrangler, we’ll keep our other battalion here for refit and continued training.â€
“I believe my Thunder Road will welcome your presence.†She said reaching over switching off the shower. “Colonel Chowla, ready for work?†Naomi said reaching down to haul him up.
“He will be, I’ll give you a hand?†Ariel suggested
“Agreed, I’m sure the first of many ventures.†She said as the two women pulled the soaked Jocoam Chowla out of the shower. This was far from being the solution to his problems but an important first step. While the contract with The Thunder Road would get the Irregulars back on the market and back to work.
Pirate Raid
Whittington, Periphery
30th September 3114
“What on earth have you done to that UrbanMech?†Schuyler McCoy asked standing in the Mechbay looking up at the thirty ton BattleMech, much maligned across the known human sphere the UrbanMech was horribly slow for a light BattleMech but what it lacked in speed it made up in Mech killing firepower often carrying an assault autocannon. This particular BattleMech however looked a lot different unlike the stubby arms of a standard UrbanMech this one’s arms extended at least half way down its barrel like torso with a pair of lasers extending out of the end. Out of the torso jutted two boxy rocket launchers which extended above the shoulders while two more lasers extended from the lower chest.
“Pieter’s autocannon was destroyed so we replaced it with a new weapons suite. Four medium lasers, two light particle cannons and two rocket launchers. It gives it a little better weapons coverage and it looks visibly different.†Matthew Yingling the McCoy’s Malcontents head technician explained.
“It’s a dramatic change it looks almost like you were trying to recreate something…†he suggested thinking of a particularly famous and heavier BattleMech.
“Maybe a little bit, it was a suggestion from our newest tech.†He said just as Amanda Cavalcanti appeared from behind the UrbanMech on the access gantry, the captured MechWarrior had been working for the unit over the last month or so and from all of Yingling’s accounts she’d fit in well with the techs. McCoy waved at her to come down.
After a few minutes she was stood beside him she was covered in grease and dust but he could see that since she had come to Whittington she’d cut her hair shorter so it only reached her shoulders and she’d coloured it a darker red which in McCoy’s opion suited her. “Any explaination?â€
“The autocannon was damaged beyond repair and you didn’t have anything spare, we’d have only gotten another autocannon by ripping it off one of your historical Mechs which I thought we were supposed to be restoring not ripping apart?â€
“And the appearance?â€
“Well at range it could scare someone who doesn’t know better.†Amanda suggested “given the ECM suite you put on my old Ebony Snake could hide it from sensors. You could put this thing at long range with an enemy, shield it with ECM and give them a scare.†She said explaining thinking behind it.
“And when they close and we don’t have a Mad Cat?â€
“Well it can fight better too, the PPCs give better range and the mediums are a better back up every day of the week than the small laser the others have.†She argued McCoy looked up at the Mech and shook his head.
“An UrbanMech pretending to be a Mad Cat†he smirked “I’ve heard of crazy things but this possibly takes the biscuit.†Suddenly an alarm cut off their conversation and McCoy’s communicator bleeped. “What is it?â€
“We’ve got an incoming Leopard DropShip they’ll arrive tomorrow.†The communications officer reported.
“We’ll be ready†he said turning to Amanda “you’d fight with that on the field?†He asked looking at the weird UrbanMech.
“Yesâ€
“And you’d fight with us?†He asked they were officially a pirate unit, they would in the future raid other worlds for supplies but Schuyler McCoy hoped they’d showed her over the last few months they weren’t bad people.
“Yes†Amanda answered again she didn’t agree with stealing supplies from others but the world of Whittington was alone in the universe and they needed to gather resources any way they could, and she had seen the good in these people.
“Then your fighting tomorrow, your Ebony Snake is repaired and ready for a fight. It’s time to defend your new home.â€
The Indianapolis-class is from the below link
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/indianapolis-class-heavy-cruiser/msg164394/#msg164394 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/indianapolis-class-heavy-cruiser/msg164394/#msg164394)
I'll post the customized UrbanMech and new model of the Ebony Snake in the next day or so.
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The Mechs of McCoy's Malcontents at the link below
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3956.0 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3956.0)
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An UrbanCat or a MadMech...
Glad to see another DC update!
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Time for a new bit with some news from the Raven Alliance - from Vition2
Hope you enjoy both our contributions
Pirate Raid
Whittington, Periphery
1st October 3114
With such a short period to prepare the McCoy’s Malcontents only had the nine active BattleMechs prepared for combat. Schuyler McCoy’s command lance had engaged the Marian forces once already taking out two enemy BattleMechs, an entire platoon of armoured vehicles and several Battle Armoured troopers before being forced to disengage. Now they were cycling around behind the enemy forces to cut off their retreat while the UrbanMech lance augmented by Amanda Cavalcanti’s repaired Ebony Snake stood in the enemies’ way. She’d positioned her ultralight BattleMech out of sight along with the three-regular looking UrbanMechs while Pieter Von Cleef took centre stage in his Mad Cat inspired UrbanMech. The strange looking Mech shrouded by Amanda’s ECM suite made the enemy forces pause at long range long enough for Schuyler McCoy’s forces to catch and engage the raiders. Now the UrbanMech lance was approaching their targets and engaging the enemy forces Pieter opened fire with both his rocket launchers and particle cannons revealing his UrbanMech’s firepower at range but Amanda held fire her ultralight only had the two rocket launchers, a sword and the handheld held triple machine gun. Instead she watched as Pieter’s firepower rippled over a Marian Hegemony Cataphract BattleMech at seventy tons the Mech weathered the hits and took both particle cannons then a pair of laser shots without flinching. The seventy-ton BattleMech twisted its torso to face them and opened fire with its arm mounted ultra autocannon which tore into Pieter’s BattleMech. Fortunately, while UrbanMechs were slow they were well armoured and Pieter didn’t miss a step as he marched forwards. The Cataphract opened fire again this time turning to face them fully engaging with its LB-class autocannon and lasers as well, unfortunately for the pilot he thought he was better than he was and tried to engage multiple targets at once. The autocannon fired cluster ammunition at the Malcontents Mechs causing light damage while of the four lasers fired only one hit one of the four UrbanMechs each of which was shrouded by Amanda’s ECM suite.
The response from the UrbanMech lance was devastating three autocannons erupted into fire adding their firepower to Pieter’s particle cannons and Amanda’s rockets. Amanda was glad to see her rockets mostly hit their target while one of Pieter’s particle cannons and both lasers also connected with the larger Mech. Two of the three autocannons found their mark and explosive shells tore across their chassis causing multiple small explosions along the way. The MechWarrior tried to maintain his balance but it was clear to see that his Mech needed to retreat and was outmatched by the entire lance of light Mechs. An assault Mech may have been able to stand but not a single Cataphract as the Mech toppled Pieter hit it again with both particle cannons as it fell causing more damage as the large Mech slammed into the ground ripping up the Wittington grass. Running in past the UrbanMechs Amanda shot the Mech with her triple machine gun carried weapon as she closed before dropping it as she got to point blank range. At this close range she struck the downed Mech with her Ebony Snake’s sword she struck down with the weapon cutting into the Cataphract’s back as the three other UrbanMechs pounded the Mech again with several heavy autocannon blasts which shredded several of the enemy Mech’s actuators causing further issues for the downed warrior.
The fallen Marian MechWarrior must have known the game was up. As he signaled to them his surrender and powered down the Cataphract before something else went wrong and the BattleMech suffered a catastrophic failure. Turning her Mech around Amanda picked up the machine gun weapon and scanned the area sighting a group of Ravager Battle Armour units. She ran towards them spraying her targets with machine gun fire. Despiter her Ultralight Mech’s small frame she still towered over the Battle Armoured troopers and a constant stream of machine gun fire, combined with the approaching UrbanMechs was enough to cause these troopers to surrender along with their fallen Cataphract comrade. Amanda loved being back in her BattleMech, despite only being able to contribute small amounts, she was a MechWarrior again. The surrender of the three Ravager troopers turned out to be the last part of the battle on Wittington one more Mech, the Marian’s heaviest, a Highlander raised its arms in surrender following the dispatching of its comrades and with that it was over. The Highlander, the remains of seven other Mechs, three intact Ravager Battle Armour suits and enough to rebuild another one or two, along with half a dozen light vehicles made for a decent haul for the Malcontents. The Marian DropShip boosted back towards orbit on hearing of the fall of their ground forces leaving their people to their fate. The Malcontents threw the lot of the survivors into the stockade to allow them to think about their failures Schuyler McCoy told Amanda that he might allow them to join his ranks like she had but they’d have to earn their place within the unit just as she had.
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Hours later Amanda Cavalcanti relaxed in the small quarters she’d been given in the manor. The room was little more than a box with a single bed against the left side wall a small bedside table and a chair. It small and basic but it was, unlike the shared quarters she’d had when she was a tech, exclusively hers and when she was inside, she could shut the door and be herself. After the battle she’d retreated to the showers then straight to her quarters to rest up, dressing only in a white tank top and ripped off shorts she laid out on top of her bed as there was a knock on the door.
“Come in†she called when the door did not immediately open. The door slowly opened and in stepped Schuyler McCoy he was dressed in a simple olive drab jumpsuit his short blonde hair bouncing slightly. From his appearance she could tell he’d also taken a shower and he’d taken time to tidy up his one vanity his hair. In his hand he held a refillable bottle which was no doubt filled with some sort of energy drink.
“You did well today†he said remaining at the door
“Thank you, it was nice to be back in the saddle I’m glad I had the opportunity to defend my new home.â€
“We won’t always defend places; my unit have taken responsibility for this world but we also are on the look out to make a profit. If that means we have to break some heads and take someone else stuff we will.†He warned her she silently nodded “you think you’re up for that?â€
“I won’t kill innocents.†She warned him “I’ll draw a line under that and if I witness it, I.. don’t know if I could stay in the unit.†She said making her point clear “but taking what we need, I think I can do, life isn’t exactly easy out here and we’d be helping the people here.â€
“We would, I won’t leave another person to die due to us taking things from them, but we will do what we need to when people resist our attempts to take from them. For those who don’t resist and don’t interfere I’ll try to promise we won’t kill anyone who doesn’t need to be killed.
“I’ll hold you to that.†She promised him
“Good, now to business†he said taking a drink from the bottle smirking “the capture of the Highlander adds a nice option to our next move. I’m keeping the Archer and not surprisingly Morgan is keeping his Blackjack, it’s an OmniMech after all, so I’m giving the Highlander to Tom.†He said naming a couple of the other members of his command lance. “After your little modification work on his UrbanMech Pieter has decided he is keeping his Mech so I’m giving Faris Tom’s old Vindicator.†He said naming another member of the unit she’d piloted one of the autocannon UrbanMechs that had forced the Cataphract pilot to surrender. “Now I don’t think you’re the type to want a UrbanMech as your ride?†After a moment’s thought Amanda shook her head, she’d rather keep a Mech half its weight than pilot a walking tin can like an UrbanMech. “I didn’t think so, instead I’ve ordered the Techs to bring online the old Griffin, its not perfect, not by a long shot a lot of its gear is primitive tech but with what we captured today you and the Techs might be able to do something with it?†He asked she nodded her agreement. “Good, I’ll release it to you, you’ll still be attached to the UrbanMechs for now, you’re not getting out of that assignment just yet, I’m going to make sure that Matt sinks an ECM into the Griffin so you can still shield that monstrosity of an UrbanMech that Pieter is piloting.â€
“I understand, their mostly good folks†she said
“Most of the unit are, just ignore Hector and you’ll be fine†he warned her “I’ll find someone to pilot your Ebony Snake and you can mentor them in the Griffin. I want them to be able to take over from you once you move up.â€
“I can do that, it’s a good little Mech.â€
“It’s not bad, but now you’re in something a lot bigger, learn your new Mech’s limitations don’t think you can run around with it like the Snake understood?†He asked she nodded again as he swiped another drink from his bottle. “Very good†he said giving her the once over with his eyes “as you were†he said after a moment of lingering then the realization he’d been caught. “Drink plenty fluids the come down after combat can be tough.†He warned Amanda reached over to the table and grabbed her own bottle.
“Well ahead of you, Captain†she said drinking a little seeing his uncomfortable look on his face at the rank “Duke?†She asked given his position on the world following his father’s actions in the past in taking up the challenge to defend the world, giving him the title seemed to make Schyler McCoy look queasy “boss?†she asked quickly moving on he nodded “I won’t let you down.â€
“I’m glad to hear it, with the Highlander and Griffin added to our ranks we’re going to be running around with a lot more firepower and capabilities so we’ll have to all get used to working together in a different way.†He explained “I haven’t even thought about what we’re going to do with the Ravagers or vehicles yet, I guess some of the locals might want an adventurous future… we’ll see. For now, we’ll keep them here and we can roll them out when we’ve got people up to the task.â€
“The Cemetery Wind held a national contest, fitness and mental agility assessed to see who was up for the task. But they had the support of the planetary government.†She said suggesting how she ended up with her old unit.
“Nothing here to support us. Just a bunch of little settlements that don’t have the money to pay us and instead turn over food and drink as payment.†He said while his unit were classed as a pirate unit beyond this planet most people considered them to be their guardians on planet as the only armed force. “I’m not sure how many of them will want to turn over their sons and daughters but we’ll see.â€
“You could force it; you have the firepower.†She suggested “or maybe form a planetary defence force… Duke†she suggested smirking when she saw him squirm under the title. Schyler stood there for a moment then left without another word obviously having plenty to think about. Amanda didn’t exactly know what she thought of her new commander, she missed her friends in Cemetery Wind but also felt like she could make an impact here.
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Regardless how Schyler felt Amanda couldn’t wait until the morning when she headed down to the Mechbay to see her “new†Griffin even the horrible rainstorm outside would not dash her hopes for a good day. She’d spend a good portion reading up on the medium Mech learning what it was capable she knew most of the basics fifty-five tons, capable of running nearly one hundred miles per hour and jumping one hundred and eighty metres. Primarily they were armed with particle cannons and missiles good solid weapons.
When she’d arrived in the Mech hanger under Schyler’s house she noticed the Mech seemed to have more missile pods than she’d expected but then it was a rebuilt Mech it would likely be armed with what the techs had available she’d adapt. Climbing aboard the BattleMech she half crawled into the cramped blocky cockpit, as Schyler had said this was a primitive Mech, she’d have to get used to some differences. Sitting in the command chair she began powering up the BattleMech feeling the fusion engine begin to pur under her. Drawing her neuralhelmet over her head once she was strapped in, she heard the familiar start up voice. Technicians preferred transferring a pilot’s neuralhelmet from one Mech to another to help the pilot connect with the machine quicker and more smoothly, starting from scatch tended to take hours.
“Griffin G-R-F-1-A online, fusion engine online, particle cannon online, small laser online, small laser online, machine gun online, rocket launcher ten-pack loaded, rocket launcher ten pack loaded, Guardian Electronic Counter Measure Suite active.†The voice said in rapid succession giving her a rundown of her connected weapons she’d had the same on the Ebony Snake but it was a far shorter list on the fifteen-ton BattleMech. The Griffin also seemed to be over gunned for what she’d expected glancing at her control board she pressed through the menus which were familiar but slower than most Mechs she stopped when she got to the stats of her BattleMech.
“Sixty tons…†she whispered looking at the stats that was wrong she thought the Griffin was five tons lighter “sixty-four mph?†She thought that can’t be right. She tabbed through several more menus until she got to the Mech’s datasheet. Maxwell Manufacturing Inc. Procyon, Date of construction November 2nd 2466… She read the words and numbers and suddenly understood her Mech was nearly five hundred years old, one of the first Griffins to be constructed, she was inside an antique. Most MechWarriors who inherited an older BattleMech received a machine that was older than them but few on the battlefield would be as old as this one. The techs had refitted the old weapons and armour but it still had an ancient chassis, engine, cockpit and a jury-rigged gyro which was heavier than the standard models. “Well, we’re going to have fun.†She said seeing the light opposite her bay go green clearing her way to leave the Mechbay. Amanda took control of the Griffin and stepped it clear of the cradle that held it in position. The Mech took a couple of heavy steps forward before she pivoted it to the right and walked it out of the bay and into the rainstorm that was lashing the building. She felt and heard the rain and wind batter her BattleMech but the sixty-ton machine stood firm. Even though they’d only walked a few steps together Amanda felt she was ready for the next challenge that was thrown her way.
High Council Chambers
Dante, Raven Alliance
3rd October, 3114
Despite the Raven Alliance’s capital being housed on Alpheratz the Snow Ravens held Dante exclusively for their own operations. Here unlike Alpheratz, which still held many of its old prejudices, a Snow Raven could walk down the street without any concern all of the population were completely indoctrinated into the Snow Raven belief system. The change on Alpheratz and across the Raven Alliance would come it would just take a little more time and convincing for now Dante was the Raven capital and held all their command and coordination centres.
Deep within one of these command centres held a the Clan Council’s grand hall designed along the lines of all the other Clan Council chambers with the Clan’s unique brand of angular architecture with every surface seemingly moving at an angle to the other the room was a theatre capable of holding several hundred of the Snow Raven’s Bloodnamed warriors, the elite leaders of the Clan, and had enough holographic and audio technology to keep everyone informed regardless of where they were seated in the chamber.
In the centre of the room the primary holotable, which was several metres wide squared, showed the typical Raven tactical grid for space combat blown up to a size that allowed the text displayed to be read from anywhere in the room. Centrally located on the displayed image is a small cluster of mid-sized white dots a few smaller ones can be seen planetward, with trajectories to intercept the white dots, these glow a brilliant golden in color. As time progresses a smaller group of white dots emerge from the cluster to intercept the golden ones. As the two groups merge a couple golden dots wink out, but most of the white ones also disappear, with only a few remaining continuing their trajectories. The remaining gold dots slow and merge with the central cluster shortly before the feed stops.
Watch Commander Riven steps to the front of the gathered High Alliance Military Council. “The captain of the RAS Silver Star ejected a small transceiver towards the end of this raid in Millary. Which we recovered a couple days ago after failing to receive progress reports on the shipment. As some of you may know, the convoy included a number finished products we were trading to the Nova Cats for a large amount of raw materials. Their recent conflict with the Suns showing some strain on certain parts of their economy, which we specialize in.â€
He went on to explain that the golden color was designated as Federated Suns on the Sphere Wide IFF code database. While somehow the audio was jammed the transceiver included a description of the assaulting force which included an Arondight-class DropShip, along with a number of other aerospace fighters and DropShips iconic to the Suns’ military. Then he stepped back to allow Khan Vir Sukhanov to lead the rest of the meeting.
The Khan stepped forward, those who knew him well can see the strain in his features, though he puts on a well composed front, “This is among our worst-case scenarios, the Federated Suns has many more resources than the Combine. Though the Suns have benefited greatly from our scouring of their periphery pirates, yet they still seek to test us.†Grumbles of agreement come from the 20 current members of the Raven Alliance’s High Military Council.
“We cannot let this attack go without response!†Gamma Galaxy Commander Adrian Chand exclaimed, the elemental's voice booming across the chamber.
The lithe form of Alessa Alpheratz, the Long Road’s GalCom, rises, “Our response must be measured, we can’t treat them like the Dragons, the Suns have fewer internal issues, and greater resources. Even their naval forces can rival our own.â€
Discussions continue for the next few hours, the normal bloodhouse politicking significantly decreased emphasizing the seriousness of the situation, before Khan Sukhanov calls for its end in order to mull over many of the options brought up. Only two solid goals came from the council: Millray must be secured, and the Federated Suns must be punished.
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The next evening, the Khan meets with the Watch Commander, the Dante sunset streaming into the glasscrete windows.
“Riven, I have decided on a course of action, but much of it requires a bit of... delicacy. We will not be able to manage this conflict truly alone, so I’ll need you to make sure a couple of messages get to the right people.†The Khan began.
“I will do my best,†the masked Watch Commander replied.
“There are three components to this, first, we’ll need to make the Combine aware of the situation, we should use our Nexus Ri connection for this. The Nova Cats should be pretty straightforward to convince, the supplies in that convoy were going to shore up some of their economic deficits, and we suspect that may put them behind schedule by a year, maybe more.â€
“The last component...†A knock occurs at the door, and Vir’s mouth makes a small smile, “Perfect timing... Enter!â€
Galaxy Commander Long Roads enters, “Khan Sukhanov, you requested me?â€
The Khan nods, “Yes, Alessa, we have need of you and your galaxy. You will work with Riven in order to...†The three of them work together on their plans late into the night.
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A bit more than a week later, the Hazelhurst PDZ director gives a large press release in which a short statement acknowledging the attack and surreptitiously apologizing for it is buried within, but also relating the recent conflict with the Nova Cats. No overtures are made directly to the Alliance. Within the Alliance, a number of units begin either redeploying or preparing for a redeployment.
Border Conflict
Federated Suns
8th October 3114
Despite having one of the best equipped militaries in the Inner Sphere after months of continuous combat on multiple fronts were causing visible cracks in the Federated Suns defences. On every march border the Federated Suns came under attack as the Draconis Combine pushed deep into the Draconis March attacking Hoff, Bettendorf, Franklin, Lucerne and Rochester shattering elements of the First Robinson Rangers and First New Ivaarsen Chasseurs with additional raids on New Ivaarsen and Sakhara V intended on tying up defenders but actually netting the Draconis Combine Sakhara as DCMS forces overwhelm the training academy and the militia supporting it. In the New Ivaarsen system only the presence of the FSS Ian Davion repulses the DCMS raiding force with the Mercury-class Battleship shattering the invading forces’ DCS Tsukushi, a Tatsumaki II-class Destroyer, driving the DCMS forces from the system. While it is unlikely the DCMS could hold all of these worlds for an extended period of time this sailent provides the DCMS with a temporary and somewhat tenous threat against the system of Robinson.
On the Periphery borders of the Crucis March Clan Nova Cat continue to cause issues with the defences of the Crucis March forcing their way into the Ebro and Memphis systems again strengthening their strike corridor into the Federated Suns. The AFFS strike back against the Clan retaking the systems of Minette, Molino, Maram, Sodertalke, Olindo and Adelson opening a second front against the Nova Cats and essentially shattering the Clan’s Zeta Galaxy which had personnel in each system targeted. With only the Forty-ninth Nova Cat Roar Cluster surviving intact as it retreated from the Maram system Nova Cat command orders Zeta Galaxy once again stricken from the rolls and the Cluster rolled into Sigma Galaxy. As a further insult to the Clan Federated Suns news sources report that the former New Avalon embassy occupied by Clan Nova Cat has been burned to the ground during a protest by Avalon City residence. The base has not been occupied for several years following tensions between Clan Nova Cat and the Federated Suns.
During the hostilities on their other borders the Capellan Confederation and Taurian Concordat combine forces and attack the systems of Shaunavon, Wrentham, Flintoff and Ridgebrook. In each case the Capellans and Taurians find the defences in the Capellan March of the Federated Suns unprepared after years of peace. On Kathil Duchess Kym Hasek is put under pressure by March Dukes to explain why she has supported other parts of the Federated Suns over her own March. With internal issues now also boiling over inside the Suns it ends a bad month for the Federated Suns.
Trial of Possession
Zosma, Wolf Empire
18th October 3114
The Star League Defence Force had returned in force to Zosma intent on wresling control of the world from Clan Wolf. Instead of charging into combat the SLDF had challenged the Wolves defending the world to a Trial of Possession, using the Clan honour system against them, the Nineteenth Wolf BattleMech Cluster had agreed to the Trial and the Clan rite of Safcon allowing the SLDF to make their way safely to the planet’s surface. The veteran Fourth Knights of the Sphere Regimental Brigade supported by the Second Hessen Irregulars Mercenary regiment had landed on the world supported by three SLDF WarShips which faced off against two Wolf vessels in a stand off. With the Trial of Possession agreed the WarShips would stand guard but were forbidden from getting involved in the battle for the planet.
Sitting in the cockpit of his Shirke OmniMech Major Morgan Christifori paced the other BattleMech in the Trial force was they waded their way through an untamed grass field heading towards the Wolf force. Due to his knowledge of Clan practices General Hadassah Sadira had given him a position on the force and he did not plan on letting her or his new unit down.
As they entered weapons range challenges were being shouted across both lines as Wolves and SLDF warriors picked their targets. Following the challenges weapons fire followed almost immediately with the two lines of forces connected by autocannon salvos, flights of missiles, man-made lightning of particle cannons and lasers. Immediately several Mechs on both sides took heavy damage but Morgan walked through the fire without a scratch, without a single challenger, as he walked forwards a Warwolf stepped into his path. The seventy-five-ton OmniMech was new to the Wolf Touman, twenty tons lighter than his Mech and slightly faster it carried significant firepower “I am Star Captain Terrence Kerensky of Clan Wolf, I challenge the MechWarrior of the stavag piloting the Shirke OmniMech to a Circle of Equals, may no other interfere in our battle.†He said
“I am Major Morgan Christifori, I won this Shirke in battle against the Jade Falcons in a battle of honour, I accepted your challenge Wolf.†Morgan transmitted in response as the two began their dance the rest of the battle continued around them with Mechs and their warriors dying on both sides but they were only background noise to the two duelling MechWarriors.
Morgan engaged his Shirke’s jump jets launching his ninety-five-ton Mech into the air. His jump was assisted by the Shirke’s partial wings which gave him superior control in flight allowing the Mech to glide further than the jump jets would carry him. He used the increased control and his Shirke’s advanced targeting computer to launch an ariel attack to hammer the Warwolf with his Hyper Assault Gauss Rifle which spat out metal slugs at supersonic speeds causing massive kinetic damage to the Warwolf’s torso and arm. The Wolf warrior returned fire with his weapons long range missiles, a particle cannon and laser. A BattleMech being his as it preformed a jumping maneuver could result in a fatal crash due to the sudden change in weight and balance from an enemy assault Morgan was braced for the attack but was glad to see the manmade lightning from the particle cannon sail past his Mech missing its mark. The laser burned up the inside of his Shirke’s left leg but didn’t penetrate the armour while the long-range missiles slammed into the Shirke’s left arm. Nothing critical Morgan thought as he rebalanced the machine coming into a landing touching his jump jets to slow the fall as he did. Ninety-five tons of man and machine landing on the ground was every “soft†but with the jump jets and wings assisting the Shirke landed with a thunderous thud flattening a patch of burning grass and throwing up sand into the air. The Shirke didn’t miss a beat running out of the thrown-up sand Mogan heard the ping of a lock on from his missiles and immediately fired the short-range missiles launching from the launcher situated above his Mech’s right wrist. As the smoke around him cleared Morgan ran into a volley of short-range missiles fired by the Warwolf pilot and then the following combination of lasers and pulse lasers which burned into the Shirke’s torso armour. Morgan glanced at his sensor display and saw the Warwolf standing off to his right-hand side twisting the Shirke’s torso he let rip with both large lasers mounted there not waiting to see the two green beams strike the enemy Mech Morgan brought the left arm HAG around and opened fire with another stream of fire hitting the enemy Mech all over.
The devastation wrought on the seventy-five-ton Mech was brutal with armour lost on almost every surface of the OmniMech Morgan thought he saw one of the lasers explode under the attack but couldn’t be certain. To his credit the Warwolf pilot did not loose his footing nor did he stop his assault attacking the Shirke with his particle cannon and a collection of lasers as the two Mechs continued to dance around each other. Unlike the missed aerial shot this time the particle cannon slammed into the Shirke’s torso burning away almost a ton of armour. Of the other lasers fired only one pulse laser hit striking the Shirke’s left leg causing nothing more than armour damage.
It took a lot to kill a ninety-five-ton OmniMech advancements of technology over the years had made it possible for Mechs to carry more armour while still carrying as much firepower as some small conventional armies. Continuing their dance, the two machines continued to trade blows the Warwolf hitting the Shirke with its missiles and laser combination while Morgan struck back with his own lasers, missiles and gauss rifle. Unless one of the MechWarriors landed a killing blow against the head of the enemy Mech it was a battle of attrition, which unfortunately for the Wolf warrior he couldn’t win, the Warwolf couldn’t take as many hits as the Shike could. Morgan intended on ensuring that exact outcome randomising his movements, cutting his jumps short and constantly tracking the lighter Mech in an attempt to throw off the Wolf pilots’ game which would cause a mistake and allow Morgan to capitalize.
Finally, after what seemed like hours but was actually only minutes the Wolf pilot made a mistake as the two approached each other it was a game of chicken which one would come off worse of. Turning to the right instead of the left to protect his lighter rear armour allowed Morgan to turn in on Warwolf. This put the two Mechs on an unavoidable collision course Morgan fired his short-range missiles at near point-blank range before clenching his Shirke’s hand actuator into a fist before the two Mechs collided in a sickening physical impact. The Shirke’s hand, arm and then shoulder slammed into the charging Warwolf knocking the seventy-five-ton machine off balance and then sprawling onto its back as Terrance Kerensky failed to control the Mech. Both the hand and short-range missile launcher had been ripped from the Shirke’s arm by the impact but other than armour damage Morgan’s Mech stood over the downed Warwolf. In the cockpit blowing warm air against his face in a vain attempt to cool down Morgan reached over and dumped the remaining short-ranged-missile ammo, he didn’t need to carry a bomb which he couldn’t use. As the Warwolf struggled to get back up Morgan stood square onto the Mech and fired his HAG again into the downed Mech before lashing out with a kick to knock the Mech down again. “Terrance Kerensky, surrender now!†Morgan ordered but the warrior continued to try and resist so Morgan hit the Mech again this time kicking one of the Mech’s arms as it tried to raise crushing the arm at the elbow joint causing seventy-five tons of Mech to fall down again. “Surrender and live or die. Final warning.†Morgan warned the downed Wolf warrior.
Several moments passed with the Warwolf prone and at the mercy of the Shirke until the MechWarrior wordlessly signalled his surrender shutting down his targeting systems and bringing the Mech to it’s idle setting it would be against the rules of war, and violate the Trial’s agreement, for anyone else to target the Mech. “Surrender accepted, Terrance Kerensky, I Morgan Christifori have defeated you in battle you and your Mech are taken as Isorla by the Star League Defence Force and you will serve as my bondsman until I see fit for you to return to the status of MechWarrior.†Morgan stated ending the Circle of Equals in Clan tradition it was the right of a victorious warrior to take the isorla, spoils of war, as they saw fit including the MechWarrior. It had happened to Morgan when he was taken by Clan Ghost Bear and now he was continuing this tradition.
After the battle which saw the SLDF recapture the world of Zosma from Clan Wolf and grant the Wolves safcon, to leave the world without attack, Morgan Christifori was summoned by General Hadassah Sadira who questioned his taking of a bondsman. Morgan had stated that he was not the first Star League warrior take take on a bondsman, pointing out that the current Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion did the same during the Clan War, and he likely would not be the last. While the General had not liked his reasoning believing he held onto his Ghost Bear traditions too closely she accepted his decision and placed Terrance Kerensky directly under his responsibility.
Combat Arena 5
Nexus Ri, Gladiator World
Star League Protectorate
24th October, 3114
Held officially by the Star League Protectorate Nexus Ri was really contested by the Star League, the Draconis Combine and Clan Snow Raven with few people on the world other than those directly involved in combat with the other factions or maintaining the machines for those battles. While described as a “Gladiator World†Nexus Ri was not the like the arenas on Solaris VII with the battles here conducted by military commands and following a strict regime of combat, although like those on Solaris battles on Nexus Ri were often recorded and distributed to entertainment networks. Territory on Nexus Ri often changed hands with each faction battling over abandoned towns, atmosphere purifiers, wind power plants and hydro electric dams. In a month a structure of area could have three separate owners but the objective was not for one side to prevail over the others like in a real war instead it was to allow all three nations involved to test their individual combat units against the other nation’s forces with the territory changing hands often being dependent on which regiments were cycling through the world.
In what started as a typical gladiatorial trial between a rough company of Draconis Combine gladiators and a similar number of Raven Alliance combatants, a particularly long duel occurs, as a pair of combatants square off, trading blows, insults, and evading others for nearly an hour before the Raven Alliance ‘mech finally succumbs to damage. After the hard-fought battle the Combine MechWarrior declares the Alliance warrior as her bondsman.
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Good to see the timeline moving along!
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Unity City News Network
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
2nd November 3114
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen, I am Walter O'Brian from Unity City News Network bringing you breaking news from the Eighteenth Whitting Conference here on Terra.†The male presenter said he appeared to be in his fifties with balding hair on the top of his head, greying hair on the sides and a grey mustache. For twenty years he had served the Unity City News and reported on the Star League Conferences. “In the last month the leaders of the Star League nations have discussed various issues varying from the current actions of the Star League Defence Force and the direction this Star League will take. Yesterday it was decided by the Star League member states that the SLDF will not be used to stop various member states coming into conflict with the council stating that the SLDF was formed to defend the Inner Sphere not act as a police force.†He said breaking the news which many people had been questioning for years. “It has also been decided that the SLDF will take full responsibility for the Milligan’s World Salient in the Draconis Combine with the worlds of Zaltousi, Milligan’s World and Quantraine all now falling under the Star League Protectorate Charter. The newly named Milligan’s World Prefecture will fall under Star League Protectorate control the same as the Kittery Prefecture.†He announced the change was a small one in the grand scheme of things but the additional worlds would bring many more citizens under Star League Protection. “Draconis Combine Mustered Society Forces will withdraw from these worlds over the next few weeks and redeploy along Raven Alliance borders to support SLDF operations.†He explained the changes the small salient of three worlds jutted into the Raven Alliance territory but for the most part they were peaceful with the Ravens over the border.
“Additionally, today the Star League Council announced two further measures. Firstly, a call by the Free Worlds League Leader Captain-General Joseph Marik to launch an Operation Bulldog style operation against Clan Wolf was rejected by the Council due to Clan threats threatening multiple borders the Star League Council members pointing out that many nations are being threatened. The SLDF have agreed to further support the Free Worlds League agreeing to build facilities on Keystone with a branch of the Royal Cosara Weaponries being built near the Earthwerks facility there and reconstruction of the Fort Meade Star League-era Castle Brian.†He explained while not completely federalized Cosara which was primarily based on Northwind was expanding with Star League support to build facilities across the Star League Protectorate Worlds bringing jobs and production to every corner of the growing nation.
“And lastly the most important announcement from this generation is that Magestix Ilsa Centrella of the Magistracy of Canopus has been made the new First Lord of the Star League Defence Force. Ilsa Centralla is the second member of her family after Chancellor Naomi Centrella to become the First Lord of the Star League however she is the first leader of a periphery state to lead the Star League since the Usurper took control from the Cameron Family. While there is no suggestion that Ilsa Centralla will attempt to follow such a path, assurances have been made by Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion that no Magistracy of Canopus forces will be allowed to set up inside the Star League Protectorate, Kittery Prefecture or Milligan’s World Prefecture.†The announcer reported having a periphery leader as leader of the Star League was huge news. “The First Black Watch Regimental Brigade along with several WarShips will be deployed to the Magistracy of Canopus as part of the First Lord’s new protection group. Due to this lengthy deployment these vessels and the ground forces will be permanently assigned to each other for the duration of this deployment. To further support these efforts the Star League Defence Force construction group supported by the Integrated Combat Services Group will be deployed to Gallis system in the Magistracy of Canopus to build an extensive support base for the Star League Defence Force. The Integrated Combat Services Group are a mercenary command that have been based on Caph for the last ten years and they will be leaving a small force there to continue to support Star League Engineering Services based there.â€
Balmoral Castle Residence, Aberdeenshire
Scotland, Europe
Terra, Star League Protectorate
3rd November 3114
In the lush green and brown Scottish country side near the North East coast Prince Luther Davion walked the grounds of the home that his father’s party had been given control over for during their visit to Terra. Balmoral Castle had been a residence of the British Royal family since 1852 and had been rebuilt and modernized over the years to serve as a residence for the Cameron family. During the Star League-era Stefan Amaris had razed the Castle to the ground during his purge of all surviving members of the family. The surviving Winsor-Cameron family members had rebuilt the Castle and expanded the facilities to include a Mechbay capable of holding an entire battalion of Mechs to the east a runway capable of accepting military DropShips had been constructed on the massive grounds that were included with the Castle.
Luther liked being back on Terra following the attack on Terra the year before he had resided exclusively on New Avalon in and around the grounds of the Davion Royal Palace, this excursion to Terra had given the nineteen-year-old a little freedom. Walking across the stone covered grounds that were around the facility wearing simple denim jeans and a loose shirt despite it being winter in Scotland he entered the massive Mechbay past his father’s Templar III OmniMech and his command lance. The fifth Mech in the row of Mechs was his grandfather’s OmniMech the Clan built Dire Wolf OmniMech. Standing in front of it was his father First Prince Burton Davion, his mother Duchess Sterling Davion, his grandmother Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion and his grandfather Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion. Despite being eighty-four years old Victor Steiner-Davion was full of life and had taken to the role as leader of the Star League Protectorate in his stride during their month long stay on Terra his grandparents had visited with them at Balmoral but Victor’s thoughts and meetings included issues for across the Star League Protectorate and its Prefectures.
“Good afternoon†his mother Sterling said as he approached, it was barely after midday and after their late-night flight from Unity City he’d decided to sleep in a little.
“Good afternoon†he responded glancing up at Prometheus wondering why they were stood infront of the mighty one hundred-ton OmniMech. He’d spent his childhood watching his grandfather practice with the Dire Wolf on the ranges near the Davion Palace.
“We leave for New Avalon in a couple of days†his father said “but before we leave your grandfather wishes to present you with your Christmas present.†He said following Luther’s glance up at the Mech.
“Prometheus†Victor said despite being the shortest of the group and the oldest in the group at eighty-four years Victor’s voice carried the authority that Luther was used to over the years. Luther looked at his grandfather with a surprised look despite carrying Victor’s blood in him he had inherited many of his mother’s Clan genes as well as his height he towered over both his Grandfather and his father standing at more than six foot in height. “I’m too old to pilot her into combat again, too many fights already fought by this body.†He said
“Many victories won by the fist, and now many victories won by your mind.†His grandmother Danai said squeezing her husband’s arm despite only being seven years younger than Victor Luther was always struck by how young his grandmother looked, she looked like she was thirty years younger with her hair still holding onto some of its youthful colouring.
“Indeed, it is time for Prometheus to return home and serve the nation it served for many years.†Victor said “your father is retaining his Templar III, so Prometheus falls to you.†He explained Luther noted that Victor refused to use the name that his father had given the Templar III, Dragon’s Wrath, Victor had always understood the Draconis Combine and respected it more than Burton Davion.
“Thank you, I look forward to taking it through its paces the Sandhurst range is an impressive facility.†Luther answered he saw his grandfather’s surprise and a glower of anger from his father.
“As are the facilities on New Avalon, where you will finish your studies, as we have discussed you are coming home!†Burton thundered this was not the first time the two had discussed this already several times.
“I started my studies here…â€
“And you’ll finish them at the NAIS.†Burton said finally turning away from him towards the Mech “it will be good to have Prometheus back on New Avalon, now thank your grandfather.â€
“Thank you, I’ll do my best to take good care of her.†Luther said he knew how much the second love of Victor’s life both of his grandparents smiled at him but also looked concerned at their son and his attitude towards his son.
Clan Wolf Assaults
Free Worlds League
8th November 3114
As Inner Sphere leaders leave Terra the reason for the SLDF existing in this modern fractured era is highlighted as Clan Wolf assaults targets throughout the Free Worlds League identifying a weak spot in Free Worlds League defences the Wolves seize Helm, Tania Australis, Bedeque and Lancaster from the defenders deploying nearly a dozen previously unseen Cluster’s built using BattleMechs manufactured on worlds captured by the Wolves from the Inner Sphere. Each of these repurposed Inner Sphere designs have been refitted with Clan technology allowing them to hit harder than their previously design allowed. The WarShip MS Kolorev, the Eighth and Ninth Free Worlds Legionaries are destroyed in the fighting as are the Zodiac Phantoms and Raymond’s Hussars Mercenary commands.
The one failed assault for the Wolves is on Connaught where the Ninth Wolf Guards Cluster are essentially destroyed fighting against the SLDF. Star Captain Alaric Wolf takes command of the Cluster and leads the remains from the system as MechWarrior Alex Wolf leads a heroic rearguard action frustrating SLDF attempts to chase down the retreating Ninth in his Incubus BattleMech damaging dozens of the defenders Mechs and vehicles before finally being taken down. As a result of his efforts Wolf scientists ensure that despite him not holding a bloodname that his DNA sample is added to the genetic mix that makes up the next generation of Clan Wolf warriors. The remaining elements of the Ninth, three binaries retreat to Dieudonne where Star Colonel Alaric Wolf assumes full time command of the command and command of its rebuilding.
Troubles for the Free Worlds League continues as the Magistracy of Canopus, straight after their victory at the Star League conference, launch attacks on the District of Regulus. Officially this is in response to Free Worlds League attacks and pirate attacks which are believed to have originated in their territory. In the attacks the Magistracy not only search for raiders but also secure the systems of Chilung, Vikindu and Barlaston rolling back District of Regulus forces. Despite the Magistracy of Canopus officially searching for pirate forces they do not announce any convictions of pirates following the actions.
On Terra advisers of the various member states of the SLDF note that the last SLDF First Lord to take immediate actions against other states also held the name Centrella, Naomi Centrella when she led the Capellan Confederation, though there are no calls for sanctions against the Magistracy or the new First Lord.
Border fighting
New Oberon Confederation and Ferris Collective
22nd November 3114
Two formerly held Clan territories the New Oberon Confederation and Ferris Collective come into conflict on several worlds as the two jostles to hold territory abandoned by the Clans in the region known as The Barrens. On various worlds the two sides exchange fire using Mechs and vehicles they have salvaged from the various Clans and Inner Sphere states in the region. The fighting comes to a head as the two sides enage each other on the world of The Rock.
The Rock is officially independently held by the inhabitants of the world but the New Oberon Confederation and Ferris Collective also hold territory on the world. The inhabitants of The Rock retreat from their settlements into the world’s ancient fortress which the Clans had abandoned but once free The Rock’s inhabitants had spent much of their resources in refurbishing the facility. The Rock’s people watch as the two sides fight before intervening int the end driving the two sides apart and bringing peace again onto The Rock.
Earnest and Bosch Solicitors of Wasat
Downtown Wasat Prime, Wasat
Star League Protectorate
25th November 3114
“It’s a land grab by the Star League Defence Force pure and simple, we’ve been contracted by Earthwerks to oppose the move by Royal Cosara to build a facility on Keystone.†James McTeigue began within hours of the Whitting Conference announcement of SLDF movements on Keystone Earthwerks had contacted the local Earnest and Bosch firm on Keystone and lodged the complaint. “As far as Earthwerks are concerned if the Star League wishes to invest in Keystone then they should do so by working with Earthwerks instead of building their own facilities.†He said continuing with the Earthwerks complaint “While their argument will not concern the Star League Government much we believe that they may gain traction with the District of Marik’s government which is the tract we’re going to take with it. Our office on Keystone is taking point with this but we’ll be doing our bit to prise a much information out of the Star League government as we can.†He explained Earnest and Bosch was a multi-planetary law firm with offices on many worlds the offices on Wasat were the largest of the firm in the Star League Protectorate’s territories. “Now let’s get started Keystone’s argument is that there are plenty worlds in the Free Worlds League that the Star League could build on, plenty worlds that could use the jobs that Cosara are ready to provide and that if Cosara are not willing then maybe Keystone will.†He said allowing the threat to hang in the air for a moment. “So far they have stopped short of threatening to pull out of Keystone completely but the threat…†suddenly he was interrupted by the sound of a VTOL passing closely over the building, far closer than any aircraft normally passed almost like the aircraft was landing, or crashing, nearby several of the people in the room moved to look out the window. Opening the blinds, they saw a modified Hawk Moth Helicopter hovering less than one hundred metres from the office building. Without a warning the weapons suite of the Hawk Moth activated and the entire floor sprayed with machine gun fire and missiles from two large chin mounted launchers. The office building was not a military facility and the glass façade was not armoured to withstand more than a strong storm. Bullets shredded the windows and cut into several people in the office before they had a chance to duck out of the way. Bullets shredded glass, furniture and flesh before the first salvo of inferno equipped missiles slammed into the building. Immediately the building was enveloped in flame as the sticky napalm jelly substance exploded. The next salvos of missiles added fragmentation munitions to the mix which penetrated other floors of the twelve-story building as missiles streaked from the aircraft cutting into bystanders on every level of the complex.
The Hawk Moth continued to fire machine gun and missiles into the building as it began to move away with its chin turret tracking to keep the weapons on target causing more damage to the structure causing smaller fires in the external car parks as missiles exploded among the parked civilian vehicles. As the VTOL moved out of range there was little left of Earnest and Bosch of Wasat other than a blazing collapsing ruin as the aircraft disappeared into the clouds above walls of the building were collapsing under the intense heat as emergency services began to arrive. The VTOL rose through the air quickly with its electronic counter measures suite shielding it from tracking sensors.
Higher in the atmosphere above the clouds the Hawk Moth was joined a Sopworth Supply Camel which was also climbing. The Sopworth levelled out briefly allowing the Hawk Moth to move over the Sopworth before coming to rest on top of it, even as the Hawk Moth's blades were spinning to a stop the roof of the Sopworth was in motion beginning to slowly lower into the cargo bay of the craft and doors closed above making the craft airtight.
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Inside the small cargo bay of the Sopworth the pilot of the Hawk Moth stepped out of the aircraft still wearing their full flight suit waiting in the bay was Christopher Grant, aka the Bounty Hunter, wearing a simple green jumpsuit everyone knew everyone onboard the ship there were no secrets between the Bounty Hunter and his team. “It’s done†Kafka announced taking off her flight helmet revealing her long red hair “no-one is leaving that building alive.†She said coldly
“Good, well done, we’ll be clearing the atmosphere shortly.â€
“Our exit is secure?â€
“Affirmative, no pursuit expected, we’ll be heading to the next staging ground shortly.†He said leaving the bay.
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The Sopworth pulled out of the atmosphere and slipped into the traffic around Wasat heading directly for a massive Dante II-class Frigate which hung above the world its engines pointed towards the world as it prepared to leave orbit. The Sopworth flew around the large WarShip like a small winged fish flying around a whale in the black ocean of space. On the far side of the Dante the Sopworth docked with the larger vessel disappearing inside the WarShip’s docking bay.
On the SLS Toronto’s bridge the watch officer turned to the ship’s commander Captain Ivan Kolesnikov and nodded. “Thank you, we don’t have to like this it’s part of the job.†He replied seeing the officer’s disgust. “Contact Wasat control again and inform them we’ve completed our third scan and there is no sign of the aircraft in question. Add in if these things weren’t manufactured here, we might not have as many problems.†He said stepping around the holo-table in the middle of the room, his magnetic boots keeping him stable in the microgravity, he entered his command code into the system and deleted the record of the Sopworth Camel docking with their vessel. His orders had come directly from General James Topher, the Head of Star League Intelligence it wasn’t his job to disagree with command.
“We’ve been cleared sirâ€
“Very good, head for the nadir jump point single g burn.†He ordered the watch officer nodded and his words were repeated throughout the vessel as a warning to all the crew to expect the burn from the Toronto’s main engines. Slowly the ship accelerated moving away from Wasat. Several days later at the nadir point the Sopworth left the Dante docking with an Invader-class JumpShip which carried several DropShips away from the system.
The Sopworth is on the link below, I saw it a wee while ago and it seemed like the perfect fit. I'm not sure if there would be a mechanism for the VTOL to dock like described but we'll call it a quirk of this particular craft.
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/sopworth-supply-camel-small-craft/msg1612886/#msg1612886 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/sopworth-supply-camel-small-craft/msg1612886/#msg1612886)
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Time to end 3114
Deployment, Integrated Support Services Group HQ
Aswen, Caph
Star League Protectorate
8th December 3114
The base of the Integrated Support Services Group, the unit had been based here for years, with some elements sent to the world of Fenwick briefly to help bring it back to the Inner Sphere preparing the worlds spaceports for incoming travelers and now they were being deployed off world for the first time under Star League contract. Colonel Janina el Arguioui was fifty-two years old and had taken command of the unit at the beginning of the previous year following an extended career with construction firms on Caph, during her time with the command she’d done much to prepare the unit for work beyond the Star League’s borders thinking it was nearing time for them to move on not expecting the SLDF to need them elsewhere. Now with the Magistracy of Canopus leader holding the position of First Lord the Star League had agreed to help the periphery nation build infrastructure and Integrated Services Support were being sent there.
Standing in the middle of their massive command base Janina stood beside her XO Major Andreas Dandekar who would remain on Caph continuing to support the continued regeneration of Caph. Centre to those elements would be part of the unit that would likely never leave Caph. During excavations of one of Caph’s long forgotten Star League-era depots Integrated had discovered the find of a lifetime and something that they had decided they would renovate for their own use – a Rattler Air Defence Platform. The Rattler was a mobile structure which formed part of the SLDF’s System Defence System Network capable of targeting space craft approaching the planet. While Integrated had little need for an SDS platform this Rattler had been modified with multiple pieces of engineering equipment and formed a core part of Integrated’s efforts to re-establish Caph’s Mag-Lev network.
“You think you’ll manage without the rest of us?†Janina joked looking at the younger man.
“I think so sir, we’ve got Betty†he joked indicating to the mobile structure “they’d need a regiment to prize us out of her if we needed to hole up and enough local contacts to keep us going, you think you’re ready for the Periphery.†He asked more seriously while Caph was a world in need of a lot of rebuilding the periphery had never been tamed and would be constantly threating.
“We should be, we’ve got our own elements and the Twenty-seventh SOG will be on hand to support us along with the naval elements sent to the task group.†She explained the Twenty-seventh Special Operations Group from the Blackhearts had been assigned to Integrated for the duration of their stay on Gallis as a support element.
“Unless they get…†Andreas didn’t finish his statement as a large hovercraft approached them painted in Integrated’s light blue and yellow construction site colours. “What the hell is that?†He asked looking at the craft which wasn’t part of their TO&E. The hovercraft came to a rest more than thirty metres from them it was perhaps three times the size of most other hovercraft and was covered in weapons and communications antenna. As the huge fans began to cycle down one of the side doors opened and out walked Duke Kalvin Gustafson the planetary leader of Caph.
“Colonel, Major, I’m glad I could catch you before your DropShips left†he said as he approached while he was in his seventies Gustafson carried himself like the MechWarrior he had been when he was younger. While he’d long since retired from the battlefield he was still full of energy. “Colonel Arguioui, a gift from a grateful world a brand-new Hexarme Mobile HQ vehicle for your command.†He said turning towards the hovercraft “straight from Protectorate R&D the Hexarme is going to be deployed by SLDF units across the Inner Sphere, I twisted an arm or two and have had one released for your command along with its eight person crew and seven maintenance technicians who are willing to volunteer to join you in heading to Gallis.â€
“Thank you†Janina said glancing at the vehicle and thinking of it and the fifteen new people she’d have to account for in the future. Caph had done a lot for her command and with the Rattler and Dandekar’s people remaining on the planet Integrated would continue to help the world. “Integrated will always be linked to this world Duke, we will ensure that we return following our deployment to Gallis, and I will do my best to return our new Hovercraft and its crew.â€
“They are ready for the adventure, each of them trained with the Caph Guards they know how to serve in a command Colonel, I promise you, and I promise we’ll look after Major Dandekar and his people while you are away.â€
“I’m sure that they’ll look after you too.†She promised him looking at “Betty†which stood behind them “Major Dandekar know exactly what our plans for Caph are Duke Gustafson he and his people will serve you well.†The Rattler was a huge asset for the command and it was not transportable, they’d return for it and Gustafson knew it so the Hexarme was an investment by the people of Caph and Arguioui would make sure they used it.
Pirate Point, Excalibur (Scimitar-class Missile Cruiser)
Charleston, Gaenir Collective
Periphery
10th December 3114
The Scimitar-class Missile Cruiser Excalibur, it’s long red hull a carryover from its original construction as an Avalon-class Cruiser while its Nova Cat emblem showed its current ownership status, arrived high above the world of Charleston in the Gaenir Collective. The small periphery nation had no space defence forces in the area to oppose the Cruiser’s presence but the Excalibur’s intent was not attack today.
Deep within the seven hundred-and-seventy thousand vessel in the command centre Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux floated confidently as there was a buzz of activity around her. “Star Admiral, we are in position over Charleston, no local defences from Gaenir.†One of the crewmen reported.
“Understood, communications send our message package to the Third Watch, engineering prepare to transfer energy package from Lithium Fusion Battery once message is confirmed received, helm as soon as engineering confirms jump us out of the system and take us to our next objective.†Leroux ordered giving all three departments their orders.
“Affirmative, Star Admiral†all three positions replied in rapid fire acknowledgement of her orders.
“Star Admiral, message in receipt at source and acknowledged by Star Colonel Franka West.â€
“Energy transfer confirmed.â€
“Coordinates confirmedâ€
“Jump the ship†Leroux ordered and within a couple of minutes the Excalibur launched itself out of the system. On the ground the Third Watch immediately began abandoning their positions on Charleston with the local defenders unable to stop the Clan unit. While the troops on Charleston did not know this these actions were being repeated by Nova Cats on fourteen other systems as the Clan abandoned its Expansion Region in its entirety and turned those troops towards the Federated Suns. Watch agents embedded in the Taurian Concordat, Fronc Reaches and Gaenir Collective ensured that all three periphery nations were aware of the Nova Cat withdrawal essentially ensuring that all three nations would be in conflict over the region and not bothering the Clan.
The Nova Cats ensured military equipment was removed or destroyed while leaving upgrades they had made to local infrastructure. They also ensured that all Nova Cat born civilians were evacuated from the worlds as were anyone who had proven their worth to the Clan while the native populations were left as if the Clan had never been there.
Raid in Force
Sakhalin, Bell PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
12th December 3114
In a pair of raids against the back of the Federated Suns the Capellan Confederation’s Elite Red Lancers and Dynasty Guard Regiments supported by several WarShips invade and conquer Ulan Balor and Sakhalin. Leading the Red Lancers from her Vandal OmniMech Duchess Zeia Liao leads the assault on Sakhalin brutally cutting down targets with her sixty-five-ton Mech’s Light Gauss Rifle, Vibroblade, lasers and inferno missile munitions. The first-born daughter of Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao proves to be a brutal and skilled fighter in the heavy utilitarian OmniMech.
These attacks occur as Clan Snow Raven begin heavy raids against the Draconis March of the Federated Suns striking at Bryceland, Kennard, Tancredi IV, Pitkin and Hazelhurst with raids against defence forces while Inner End and Haynesville are captured by the Snow Ravens who drive out local defenders following local Trials of Possession in each case the AFFS defenders show the Clan force respect. With Federated Suns already trying to hold the Benjamin Salient, trying to defend Robinson from Draconis Combine assault and hold the Nova Cats at bay their defences are stretched to breaking point.
Press Conference, Courtyard
The Triad, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th December 3114
In front of the Government Hub on the Lyran Commonwealth’s capital of Tharkad dozens of reporters were gathered for a press conference. On a small podium set in front of a pair of Main Battle Tanks, a Manticore II and a DI Schmitt, a tough looking man in his fifties stepped up to address them. His close-cut dark hair was beginning to go grey in places his face broken by dozens of wrinkles showing his experience for all to see. He wore an immaculate Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces dress uniform of the armour corps with the unit patch of the Eisenjagers Independent Armour Regimental Brigade, a Rommel Tank and Steiner Fist insignia, displayed proudly on the arm.
“I am Colonel Bernard Howard, the commander of the Second Eisenjagers, today I return to the Lyran Commonwealth from the world of Arcturus.†He said “I and my fellow Eisenjagers have continued to serve the Lyran Commonwealth under the command of Aiden Grey against the occupying forces of Clan Hell’s Horses. The troopers who served under the General’s command are some of the bravest I have ever seen spending their lives for the people of Arcturus and the Lyran Commonwealth against insurmountable odds. It is my duty to announce that Aiden Grey has fallen and all remaining resistance on Arcturus by Lyran forces has now ended. We will continue to claim Arcturus as a holding of the Lyran Commonwealth but it will be one under occupation.†He said pausing remembering those who had fallen “I will continue to serve with the Lyran Commonwealth and will oversee the rebuilding of the Eisenjagers Independent Brigade.â€
This announcement of the official capitulation of Arcturus comes as the SLDF and Lyran Commonwealth defenders stop a combined Hell’s Horses and Clan Coyote assault on the district capital world of Freedom in the Isle of Skye. While the Inner Sphere forces have their victories on Freedom and in the system of Alexandria news comes that the worlds of Whittington, Eaton and Yedi Prior have all fallen to the combined Clan assaults as Clans Jade Falcon, Hell’s Horses and Coyote all push into the Isle of Skye region.
Expedition Landing Site, MacMahon (Fortress-class DropShip)
Novus Terra, Deep Periphery
28th December 3114
In front of the Fortress-class DropShip MacMahon Dave O’Connor lead pilot of the mercenary unit Cemetery Wind stood with Expedition leader Christoffer Trossen on a new world. Though the world known as Novus Terra was not a completely hostile world to humans both wore breathing masks to assist in filtering the air which had a slight taint hazardous to human biology. Dave O’Connor was uncomfortable standing beside Trossen, this was Amanda Cavalcenti’s job, Trossen was a civilian but he carried himself like someone who could look after himself. While he was in his fifties, he stood over six foot in height and was well built having worked out for years in gyms in between his scientific studies. Ahead of them approached a single Ostscout BattleMech painted in the grey colours of the rocks around them. The thirty-five-ton humanoid Mech had a single laser jutting out of its chest but otherwise looked like an oversized human.
The Mech stopped almost twenty metres clear of them and a chain ladder dropped down the front of the Mech and soon after the pilot climbed out of the Ostscout cockpit and down a ladder. The figure slowly walked towards them as they approached O’Connor could make out that the figure was a male who appeared to be older than both of them. His jumpsuit was primarily white, it was obviously not new with multiple patchwork repairs having occurred over the years giving it multiple different coloured patches. On his belt he had what appeared to be a heavy pistol holstered and several other survival packs.
“Welcome to the Novus Terra system†he said to them unlike O’Connor and Trossen he didn’t wear a breathing mask having either adapted to the taint in the atmosphere or not caring about it due to his advanced age. “My name is Greg Bushroe, I command those that call this world home, I’d like to know why you are visiting this world.â€
“As we said from orbit we are simply exploring and mapping the area beyond the Free Worlds League and Magistracy of Canopus.†Trossen explained “we mean no hostile intent; we only wish to find the populations beyond the nearby realms which were formerly held by the Marian Hegemony and the worlds beyond them.â€
“Ah, well Novus Terra is occupied, there is no Marian influence here only myself, my unit and our people. There are half a dozen farmers and small settlements across the planet, mostly people just wanting to be left alone. We’re too far from anyone for them to show an interest in us before today, and I hope after this meeting you’re satisfied enough to leave?†He said obviously becoming irritated by their presence.
“That’s an Ostscout 7Jb isn’t it?†O’Connor asked looking admirably at the BattleMech behind Bushroe “built by the original Star League Defence Force.â€
“Yes, I brought it here with me, there isn’t a cache here before you think otherwise.â€
“It’s an expensive piece of kit, even for an antique†O’Connor said speaking out loud what he was thinking, the 7Jb was a Royal variant of the Ostscout put into limited production by the original Star League there wouldn’t be very many of them left in the Inner Sphere and none were in production anymore.
“Brought from my previous occupation in the Inner Sphere, MechWarrior?†He asked looking O’Connor up and down.
“Affirmative, David O’Connor, I pilot a light BattleMech known as the Mammoth.â€
“I don’t recognize it, but then I’ve been out of circulation for a while, we don’t get MechWarrior’s Monthly out here.†The older man joked MechWarrior’s Monthly was a subscription service which was primarily sent out via HPG from its distribution centre on Terra.
“It’s relatively new†O’Connor said “built in the Free Worlds League primarily for security work I’d guess it wouldn’t be even a match for your antique.†He said glancing at Trossen who nodded “it’s also our heaviest Mech, sir, we’re not here to cause you harm. We are simply exploring and seeing what’s out here.â€
“I appreciate your honesty Mr O’Connor, but I’d prefer not to show you everything we have, if your people decide to ‘explore’ here in the future we’ll need all the surprises we have. All I will say to you is that we’re willing to trade with outsiders if they trade on our terms, they land where we ask like you did today and they trade fairly. We’ll not entertain exploration of our world by outsiders unless there is something specific you want to look at, then we’ll assess if your work will be any threat to our positions.â€
“I think we can work with those restrictions.†Trossen said “is there anything your people need? Medical supplies or food?â€
“Not at present, we brought a lot of equipment with us and the locals have been very supportive, thank you.†Bushroe explained “we like the people here and they appear to like us.â€
“Thank you for your time, we won’t bother you further…â€
“Good†Bushroe said cutting in essentially ending the conversation he briefly turned to O’Connor and nodded once before turning and returning to his Mech.
“Not everyone wants visitors.†O’Connor noted
“No†Trossen said “we’ve gathered some interesting information, maybe someone else will come by this world in the future, and maybe Bushroe will get the peace he desires.†He said as they watched the man climb back onboard his Ostscout. “Shame we used some fuel to get here but a trip onto any new world is an interesting one. Onwards and upwards I guess.†He said turning and walking back into the MacMahon leaving O’Connor to watch as the mysterious MechWarrior and his Ostscout walked away from their landing zone leaving them in peace, at least every world isn’t a hostile one, he thought before turning back towards the inside of the DropShip. Within the hour the MacMahon was lifting off the ground and heading back into space, onwards towards their next world.
Trial Grounds, Research and Development
Tukayyid, Clan Territory Inner Sphere
31st December 3114
On Tukayyid the Clan research team watched as the Phoenix Hawk BattleMech walked out of the Mechbay onto the grounds. Seeing a BattleMech, even an Inner Sphere one like this Phoenix Hawk wasn’t a surprise, but this Mech was special. The Mech almost immediately broke into a run activating its jump jets as it ran in Mid-air the BattleMech appeared to convert a into something else with its upright stance bending over and its wings extending either side of the craft. The newly arranged airborne Mech now flew a distand in it’s new form before going through further changes with the legs and arms folding into the aircraft’s form crating a fully operational aerospace fighter.
“As you can see our test pilot has mastered the conversion process from BattleMech to aerospace fighter.†Scientist Tualo said turning to the Loremaster of the Clans Iwabuchi Nagasawa who was overseeing the test project.
“MechWarrior Hector is of Raven stock and has adapted well to the process†he said as the Phoenix Hawk flew over their position “unfortunately not all MechWarriors have adapted as well not have pilots adapted to piloting a BattleMech which requires its pilot to be Intune with its machine.â€
“I know how pilots work with their machines!†Nagasawa snapped slapping the man across the side of the face it wasn’t a hard hit and Tualo didn’t move far, he should have known better than to try and teach a Trueborn Warrior how BattleMechs and Aerospace fighters worked even if LAM pilots needed to know both disciplines. “Inner Sphere freebirth pilots are able to fly Land Air Mechs, their nations field entire regiments against us!†He said angrily the Inner Sphere had gone down the LAM rabbit hole, much like the original Star League had, with every nation the Clans now fought fielding many of the machines. The Clans had abandoned the technology on the instruction of The Founder Nicholas Kerensky who wished a divided system of MechWarriors and Aerospace Fighter pilots. “The Draconis Combine embarrassed the Ghost Bears in the Mellen system the LAM’s they fielded able to out maneuver and out fight the defenders even when using our dueling laws. The Clans must adapt.â€
“And we will†Tualo said agreeing with him
“When can we have our first Clan variant of that Mech built and tested?â€
“Clan… variant?†Tualo stammered “we have barely begun to learn how everything works the textbooks and information held from the Star League-era has only taught us so much. We need to learn this technology from the ground up.â€
“Are you saying that we need to recruit people from the Inner Sphere?†Nagasawa asked he wanted work to begin on a new Clan built LAM as soon as possible before the Clans discovered the plans being developed on Tukayyid. If the Clans discovered they could field such craft if they were built using Inner Sphere technology then it would never work.
“Some experts could be useful but our technology is not fully compatible with LAM technology. We need to adapt our building practices to accommodate this technology.â€
“I will instruct the Watch and Ebon Guard to seek out those that can help you. There is a project in the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone that could also help with your development work. I will get you the people and the equipment do not fail me.â€
“Aff Loremaster.†The scientist said as the Loremaster walked away from him the Phoenix Hawk flew over them again before turning back into a BattleMech and coming in for a landing on its jump jets. They had successfully tested the Mech but production was a very long way away.
I'll get the support unit and warship lists and map uploaded hopefully Monday but feel free to discuss in the meantime.
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3115
Snow Raven assaults
Hazelhurst PDZ, Draconis March
Federated Suns
1st January 3115
Opening a new front against the Federated Suns following their actions against Snow Raven a supply convoy. Two entire Galaxies of troops supported by WarShips descend on the systems of Hazelhurst, Sterlington, Kirbyville, Bastrop and Stratford in a surprise blitzkrieg style assault. Snow Raven fighters and BattleMechs almost blot out the light above Hazelhurst during the initial attacks with the Ravens rapidly overwhelming the defenders.
With most of the AFFS holding onto the Benjamin Sailent, Defending Robinson and fighting the Nova Cats the AFFS are far out of position and not ready for the assaults. The Dragonlords Regiments defending the Bryceland PDZ hold their position defending their homeworlds following the previous Raven assault the units appear to be in no hurry to leave their worlds instead fortify their positions while other AFFS other units are directed into the area. In the Hazelhurst system the FSS Staghound, a Peter-class Scout, is destroyed as the crew attempt to stop a Raven Titan-class DropShip making its way in system the Titan was not a standard model of the class and overwhelmed the Staghound with superior firepower.
Iron Wombs
Science Quarter, Wolf City
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
8th January 3115
In the heart of Wolf City, Clan Wolf’s defacto capitol city, on the world of Sheridan were the Clan’s Iron Womb complex where Wolf scientists created the next generation of Clan Wolf Trueborn warriors. When the Wolves had arrived on Sheridan, they had built the Wolf City over a settlement that existed before much like the Clans had when they built Katayusha with entire neighbourhoods being razed and a new orderly city being built over the top. Citizens of the old city were ordered to move to the outskirts or executed in a brutal operation which would give the Wolves the order they desired. When the Wolves had taken Tamar in the old occupation zone, they hadn’t bothered with such operations but here in their “Empire†the Wolves intended on retaining Sheridan even after they seized Terra, Sheridan would remain a Wolf world now and forever.
With each section of the city defined it was unusual to see members of other castes in the others areas unless they were looking for something and today was no different. Star Colonel Alaric Wolf was on the warpath the day before he had arrived on Sheridan to take part in the Ward Bloodname bloodtrial only to find that he had been passed over for selection and his only way to earn a Bloodname would now be through a grand melee. Such a contest would reduce his chances significantly and would mean that if he won, he would receive one of the lesser Bloodnames. Each Bloodname brought honour and respect but some, some were more equal than others in most warrior’s eyes. Alaric was of Ward stock with his lineage bring drawn from the blood of Vlad Ward himself, the former Khan of Clan Wolf and one of the most respected leaders of the modern Clan Wolf, Alaric wanted to know why he had been passed over for ‘his’ Bloodname.
Entering the laboritaries, Alaric would have been anywhere in human space that had reached the technological level to investigate the secrets of science. These non-descript white and grey offices with small office cubes on either side and larger research areas in the centre were where important science happened for Clan Wolf Alaric. It was where Alaric could get answers he wanted, calmly he spoke remaining in control as much as he could as he addressed a group of scientists who looked at him with respectiful but wary eyes. “I am Star Colonel Alaric of the Ward Bloodhouse; I wish to speak to the one who is in charge here.†He said remaining at arms length to them his tone not entirely hostile. “I have questions about my bloodline, questions that need answer.
“This is quite improper…†One of the scientists began but Alaric stopped him with a backhanded slap over the man’s face knocking him to the side, his anger beginning to boil.
“Understand this scientist, I am a Trueborn Warrior of Clan Wolf which your fate is tied to from your birth to your death and you are a scientist. Warriors have ruled our Clan from its inception and will until the ends of time where all that remains is Clan Wolf and its subjects.†He reminded the man as he calmly rubbed the side of his face “I have won the right from the leader of the Ward Bloodhouse to be here and to ask questions, I have been authorised to use any means I deem necessary to get the answers I want.†He said which was a little stretch of the truth he’d won a Circle of Equals against Aron Ward to come here, that was true, but the leader of the Ward Bloodhouse had almost taunted him by informing him to ‘ask his questions and be unhappy with what you find, there are secrets Clan Wolf holds that will never become public.’ He hadn’t known what that meant but he was determined to find out exactly what he’d meant. He was a trueborn warrior he knew that much and his actions for Clan Wolf had gained him the recoignition that would allow him to fight for a Bloodname like any other warrior, his successes should be built on by future generations.
“Well… scientist Vettel may be better to explain… he’s in his office… this way.†The man began to say as he recovered from the slap.
“Star Colonel Alaric Wolf, enough of this witch hunt, if you wish to speak to anyone that person will be me.†The thunderous voice of Loremaster Gloria Shaw thundered from the doors at the far end of the room. “Scientists you have work leave us.†She said walking into the office complex her massive bulk a reminder to anyone that she was an Elemental by birth the metal plate that ran the length of the right-hand side of her head from her eye to behind where her ear should have been. Both her right eye and right ear had been replaced with cybernetics due to the damage caused by the injury the eye now an unblinking red glare that pierced through and unnerved her opponents.
Around Alaric the scientists vacated the area leaving him alone in the shared central area between offices. “Loremaster, Aron Ward authorised me to come here and speak with these scientists…â€
“Aron Ward is dead, he met me this morning in a Circle of Equals and he was not my equal.†Gloria Shaw said interrupting him she stopped at arms length to him which for an elemental of her size was several feet and she was still intimidating despite being in her forties Gloria Shaw struck an impressive figure, her artificial red eye and metal plate worn with pride. The news that she had killed a Bloodhouse leader in a Circle of Equals shocked Alaric. “His descision to overlook you for the Bloodname contest was a mistake as was his… lack of discretion could have cost Clan Wolf much if things that were done in the name of progress came to light.â€
“And what does this progress have to do with me?†Alaric asked wondering what his Clan had done which would affect him.
“Walk with me†Shaw commanded turning away from him Alaric matched her large strides as best he could to maintain pace with the larger woman. Once out of the offices Gloria Shaw led him silently down a grey corridor outside onto a balcony overlooking Sheridan. It was a dull wet day near Wolf City the planet that Clan Wolf had selected as its new capitol was a habitable pleasant enough world and a perfect habitat for the Wolves that the Clan had released on their arrival with an abundance of prey for the animals. Unfortunately, it was also a humid and wet world with frequent rain storms which covered half the hemisphere sometimes for days on end. Already the Wolves had funded massive construction projects on the world to build flood defences to protect their facilities and the civilian settlements and to collect rain water for drinking and other uses.
As the rain beat down on them and the science complex Gloria Shaw turned to him ignoring the weather, on the balcony guard she placed a small device, Alaric was surprised realizing it was some sort of jamming device. “We can talk here without being overheard. While I trust the scientists in this facility, I do not know who else may be listening this device will mask our words and the weather will distort our words.â€
“What did out Clan do, and how does it affect me?â€
“Have you ever heard of someone named Katrina Wolf?†She asked Alaric couldn’t place it immediately there may be a hundred Katrina Wolfs in the Inner Sphere it wasn’t an uncommon name. “She also went by the names Katrina Ward and Katherine Steiner-Davion?â€
“Aff, I have heard of this pirate she was an Inner Sphere born freeborn warrior, she betrayed Clan Wolf and was killed in the periphery.â€
“Aff, she was claimed by Khan Vlad Ward when she was defeated in the Lyran Commonwealth. Before her defeat Katherine was classed by many as one of the more successful politicians in the Inner Sphere. Khan Ward was infatuated with her and impressed by her abilities, he wished to use her knowledge to forge a future for our Clan in a battleground that our Clan was not experienced.â€
“The only experience we need is that we earn on the battlefield quiaff?â€
“Aff, battlefield victories are important but using the politics of the Inner Sphere to our benefit is also important.†Gloria Shaw explained “Ward believed that she could be a benefit to him in gaining control of the Inner Sphere unfortunately for Vlad Ward he died before his plan could come to fruition. Neither Vlad Ward’s plan nor Katrina’s presence in our Clan have had a lasting effect bar one thing, Vlad Ward ordered Katrina’s DNA to be added to our genetics program.â€
“She was freeborn!†Alaric exclaimed angrily “she did not earn the right.â€
“Neg, she did not, but she is also not the first freeborn to have had their DNA added to the Clan genetics program there are hundreds of occurrences recorded through Clan history each cataloged and studied every time our scientists looking for improvements.†Shaw explained informing Alaric of one of the murkier facts about their genetics program. “Simply put to encourage genetic diversity and maintain the health of our future generations occasionally additional DNA is added to the program by scientists. Normally these are taken from our own civilian castes because they have shown promise, but Khan Ward ordered Katrina’s DNA mixed in with his own and one other to breed a new generation of warriors.â€
“Who else?†Alaric demanded his anger boiling inside as he realized that Shaw was speaking about his generation of warriors and that he had been passed over because of Katrina’s DNA.
“Victor Steiner-Davion, Katrina’s brother and the present Exarch of the Star League Protectorate.†Gloria shaw admitted watching the shock play on Alaric’s face. “He is considered by many to be one of the best strategic commanders of the modern era having masterminded the destruction of Clan Smoke Jaguar and having led not only the Federated Suns but also now the Star League for decades. Khan Ward ordered his DNA to be taken by the Clan Watch and added to our genetics program.â€
“Khan Ward’s actions were dishonourable. Clan Wolf’s future should be in Clan Wolf hands, I understand the need to keep our genetic stocks diverse but Clan Wolf’s future should be of its own making.â€
“Aff, I agree†Gloria Shaw said “however those actions have been taken and now we must live with them. The scientists who were involved in the project have been reaved and thus far only one individual has proven their worth to our Clan.†She explained “the impact this experiment will have on Clan Wolf is a minimal one.
“And what does that mean for me?†Alaric guessed that the 'only one individual has proven their worth' was him and did not like the idea that his entire life had been an experiment masterminded by scientists and a dead Khan.
“You Alaric Wolf are in a unique position; unlike the others of your generation, you have proven yourself worthy of having the right to earn a Bloodname and with Aron Ward’s death there is a place within the Ward Bloodhouse available." He said confirming that Alaric had thought. "Through Khan Ward’s DNA you have a right to fight for that name but there is a condition attached – your silence.â€
“My silence, once I am a Bloodnamed Warrior I can do what I desire.†Alaric stated “it is the right of each Bloodnamed warrior to forge their own destiny, Quiaff?â€
“Aff, you can.†Gloria Shaw admitted, she’d observed Alaric for some time she knew his potential “but, revealing this secret would damage Clan Wolf’s standing and if you were to lead this Clan with this secret revealed your position would be weakened in Clan society something that will not only cause trouble for you but also our entire Clan. We are the Children of Kerensky we should be at the fore front of Clan society, do not jeopardies our position." He warned sternly "do you understand Alaric? Your own actions could determine how successful you are as a Wolf, you have a choice win a Bloodname, use discretion and potentially lead this Clan or do not use discretion and possibly end it.†She said giving him the stark choice “either way Alaric, the choice is yours.†She said picking up the jammer again she walked off the balcony back into the building.
Eight days later Alaric stood as one of the warriors fighting for the name made available by the death of Aron Ward. Inside the Circle of Equals Alaric proved himself worthy of the name winning his Bloodname becoming Alaric Ward.
Border Raids
Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
19th January 3115
With the conflict that began the year before continuing the Magistracy of Canopus with assistance from the Capellan Confederation push into the Regulan systems of Dalton, Jouques, Martigues and Shenwan the District of Regulus is clearly in trouble against the attacks. In an effort to assist their Free Worlds League allies Khan Petra Furey, the leader of the District of Lesnovo and of Clan Smoke Jaguar’s remnants, orders her forces into action invading the Magistracy of Canopus.
The District of Lesnovo forces launch attacks across five worlds between Wisconsin and Rushcegg catching the Magistracy of Canopus support forces as they rearm preparing for the next wave of attacks. On Wisconsin the First Rim Guardians and elements of Clan Smoke Jaguar’s reconstituted Beta Galaxy face off against the Third Canopian Brigade. As with previous District of Lesnovo tactics the heavier machines of the First Rim Guardians lead the attack with Beta Galaxy’s primarily Ultra-light units maneuvering around the flanks and finally crushing the Canopian Regiment. Survivors from the Rim Guardians are folded into Beta Galaxy.
In a similar attack on Ayn Tarma the Second Rim Sentinels Regiment and elements of the Smoke Jaguars Gamma Galaxy are pitted against the Second Canopian Brigade. Unlike the attack on Wisconsin the four Canopian Regiments are ready for the assault and they repulse the invaders attempts at conquest. Back within the District of Lesnovo the remains of the Rim Sentinels are folded into Gamma Galaxy. While to an outsider this tactic appeared to be the Jaguars taking over the District of Lesnovo the people and the regiments accept their transfer as the majority of the “Clan†force is made up of native-born Free Worlds Leaguers who were born on worlds that have always been loyal to House Marik and as suce the people of Lesnovo see their “conversion†to Smoke Jaguar position as simply a transfer between units.
With the failure to secure Ayn Tarma the District of Lesnovo’s attacks do not stall instead Khan Petra Furey is even more determined to show her district, and by extension her Clan, are ready to fight the wars that need fought and win their own battles without external assistance. As a result, District of Lesnovo forces assault the remaining three worlds in their target list with renewed vigour. While Rushcegg and Saonara fall to their assaults on Skovrec do they suffer any significant reversal when the passing WarShip MCS Katara obliterates two JumpShips and eight DropShips worth of troops in space destroying the entire invasion force. Hundreds of soldiers and thousands of tons equipment are lost in the attack showing the power of even the smallest WarShip when it is used correctly against ground forces.
The destruction of the Ayn Tarma assault force Khan Petra Furey orders the remaining elements of Delta Galaxy stood down and its forces retested for their warrior positions. Without significant shipyard facilities available to the District of Lesnovo she turns to her Free Worlds League allies for assistance using contacts within the Free Worlds League Smoke Jaguars neigotiate with Free Flight of Fletcher and arrange to purchase three Monolisk-class Destroyers. Unfortunately, due to orders already placed at the shipyards these vessels will not be launched until 3125. In the meantime, for the defence of their district and for future offensive operations, Khan Petra Furey decided her people needed other options and looked inside the district for support.
With the Magistracy of Canopus facing assault from multiple districts of the Free Worlds League Magestix Ilsa Centrella orders her troops to hold their positions and rebuild their strength ready to take territory back from the District of Lesnovo. The Magistracy of Canopus’ gains have another effect the worlds captured are classed as Inner Sphere territory bringing the nation that currently holds the position of First Lord into the Inner Sphere.
Briton Throne Room
Cyclops Station, Cyclops
Periphery
28th January 3115
Deep within the Cyclops Space Station Queen Gabriela Briton sat on her throne chair confident of her rule as she had been for the forty years. Rarely did she dress differently than today her brown leather jacket covering the survival suit she always wore when in space. The jacket itself told hundreds of stories and wore several patches she had added over the years to some it was a standard piece of clothing but to the queen and those people who lived on the station it was a symbol of her rule as much as any crown would be. While the survival suit served its own purpose Gabriela Briton occasionally visited penal mining colony in the system, she primarily lived-in space and as such dressed appropriately ready at all moments for reports of a hull breach and the survival suit was one key factor in survival or death for space dwellers. The “Throne Room†onboard the station outpost was actually two rooms one part was an extension of the CIC facility that ran the station where the Queen could oversee what was going on on the station, when the station was still a Potemkin-class ship in the service of the SLDF this room had been a separate meeting facility used by flag officers to oversee invasions of worlds. From here she could watch as the stations day to day operations were conducted and hold private audiences if required.
“Jump signature†one of the crewmen manning the operation’s centre announced “single JumpShip Invader-class†he said then after a few moments “it identifies as the SLJS John Doig, they are requesting permission to deploy a DropShip to the station to conduct neigotions.â€
“Authorize them to approach†Briton said “have our fighters’ approach and escort them in once they are close enough.†She commanded then she flicked a switch on her throne which turned the entire wall around into another compartment away from the buzz of the operations centre. At the door stood two guards at attention their magnetic boots holding them onto the deck in the micro-gravity. Moments later her Chief of Security Ronin Ichiro Matsumoto walked through hatch entering from the Ops centre to this day he still wore his Red and Black DCMS uniform just without any of the ranks or medals he was entitled to on his uniform he still wore the Katana blade he had as a DCMS warrior even though he was no longer entitled by his native-born tradition. She appreciated the fact that he still had the blade and his skill with it.
“Sumimasen, JoŠBriton†he said bowing despite being the father to her children Ichiro knew his place on the station; one step lower than her. “I believe that allowing the SLDF to approach is a risk that we do not need to take. They do not need to come here; we can survive without being part of the Cirincus Federation and without their assistance.†He suggested refering to the recent decision by the Queen to remove the Cyclops Station from the Cirincus Federation and declare their independence once more. In recent weeks the Rim Collection had pushed into several systems of the Cirincus Federation shattering commands after the Rim Collection claimed that Cirincus was responsible for raids into the nation. This had caused the four “Zeta†worlds to break from the Federation creating a buffer between Cirincus and the Rim. Independence would be good for the Cyclops Station and allow them to trade with and raid all three nearby nations. The SLDF had no presence in the region why they’d come to the Cyclops was a mystery and Queen Briton liked a good mystery.
“I agree we do not need them, but I am curious about what they have to say.†She explained “Also you do not simply insult someone who could knock down a wall of your home with a flick of their wrist. The SLDF have great power behind them and while the Cyclops is strong it wouldn’t survive an extended encounter with a dedicated military threat.
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It took three days for the SLDF DropShip to reach the station as it approached fighters from the station escorted it in. The ship appeared to be a large cargo DropShip that had been modified to carry small craft and additional weapons according to the Cyclops military sensors the ship appeared around twenty-five thousand tons in gross weight visually it appeared to have one central round section and four bulbous cargo/engine modules running around the ship with two either side of the central section. From its fighter bays two aerospace fighters and a small craft launched turning towards the station with the fighters peeling off and flying down the length of the station as the small craft docked. Queen Gabriela Briton had requested that the SLDF party be welcomed onboard like any other traveller and to go through standard immigration checks and then taken to the Throne Room.
As a result of the Queen’s instructions the party of four from the Star League Defence Force took three hours to get from immigration to the Throne Room which was currently turned so the room was private and away from the CIC Operations. When they arrived Queen Gabriela Briton was sat waiting for them alone with Ronin Ichiro Matsumoto Queen could see their party had two large and obviously capable security officers who were dressed in standard military fatigues of trained marines. She had no doubt that even without weapons they’d be a match for her own guards in a fair fight. The other two were dressed in SLDF uniform one an older man with receeding grey hair and a grey mustache wore the grey jacket and black trousers of a Captain while the other a younger man with dark hair wore a plain black uniform jumpsuit all four stopped at a respectful distance from her and Ichiro but far enough away from the guards to not be an immediate threat.
“Welcome to The Cyclops, I am Queen Gabriela Briton, what can we do for you?â€
“I’m Captain William Blannin the commander of the SLS Liverpool, thank you for seeing us†the older man said introducing himself “we’re glad to see that the Cyclops is still thriving it has been some time since we have made contact…â€
“Officially we have never had relations with the Star League Defence Force†she said interrupting the captain “whatever unofficial relations you had they were not with me and so you should discount them entirely before continuing or leave before I become angry with you.†She demanded she saw Matsumoto tense beside her and knew the SLDF would have to.
“Of course, Queen Briton, I did not mean any offense, the SLDF have been aware of this station’s presence purely through the words of the traders who have dealt with you and from ComStar’s records.†Blannin explained backtracking slightly.
“Now that we understand one another may I enquire ONCE more why you are here?†Her emphisis on the word once was enough to make it clear that she wished to proceed with business now rather than continued small talk.
“As we understand it your nation has recently broke from the Cirincus Federation…â€
“Something we have done within a matter of the last few days; you are well informed†Briton said quietly
“…and as a result of your new independence we would like to establish diplomatic relations with this station and help keep you in contact with things outside this station.â€
“As your ‘traders’ have no doubt informed you we have many people coming through our station and we learn many things. I am sure the Star League would like to know some of the things we know?â€
“Yes, we would however I’m sure certain people would only talk to independent trading outposts like yourselves.†His diplomatic dodging of the Cyclops position as a pirate nation was well done and Briton allowed him to continue. “With your independence does come some risks however, the recent conflicts between Clan Fire Mandrill and the Cirincus Federation has shown what can be done with enough weapons.â€
“The Cyclops can defend itselfâ€
“For a short period of time yes.†Blannin suggested “what we offer is the ability for the Cyclops to hold out longer until help could arrive and resist external threats such as those provided by Clan Fire Mandrill or by the Federation’s Erinyes.†He saw them preparing to counter his argument and quickly spoke again “I know this station was built on a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser and despite its outward appearance and the modifications that have been made over the years that some of its weapons have been restored but against a fully operational assault force alone Cyclops is not enough.â€
“And you would also provide this help?†Matsumoto said speaking up for the first time “you speak as a friend but from what I understand in your case we would be indebted to you should we call for your help.â€
“Not necessarily you would not need to call for us, you could call for anyone, but the SLDF was formed to hold back the Clans we aim to serve those in need of assistance.†He offered “which brings us to why we are here the SLDF would like to enter into an agreement with you similar to the one that you held with ComStar. We would like to hire several DropShip collars with you and in exchange we will provide you with funds and information from the Inner Sphere.â€
“Considering you will receive information while your people are here all I hear are the ching-ching of C-Bills.†Briton said
“I think you can do better.â€
“Like what?â€
“You say that you want us to be able to communicate with those nearby then perhaps you could provide us with an HPG?†Briton said smiling “we have a compartment that could be converted to the purpose and power lines that lead into that area.â€
“An expensive piece of equipment.â€
“Which you could charge us and the people passing through the Cyclops to use.†Briton suggested “my people could not operate the facility but those SLDF personnel you wish to dock at our station could run the facility and make some money while doing it.â€
“We’d need more for such a service, two of the docking collars free of charge.â€
“A fourth docking collar free of charge†Briton countered “you cannot expect me to offer things to you for nothing you want ComStar’s agreement you can have ComStar’s agreement. But these new deals are extra.â€
“Then we’ll also want to leave an armed security detachment with the HPG and the personnel†the younger man in darker clothing said.
“With weapons that are checked onto the station by my people.†Matsumoto said “nothing that could penetrate the hull will be allowed onboard and no Battle Armour the station was not built for them to traverse the corridors.†He said the two exchanged a nod of agreement.
“Major Malcolm Galley will command the detachment here on Cyclops†Blannin said indicating to the man all in black.
“Pleasure†Galley said nodding
“Of couse and to protect this investment you will authorize weapon sales to the Cyclops.â€
“There is a line and that one we will not cross†Blannin said according to Star League intelligence the people of the Cyclops with support from the Cirincus Federation perhaps as many as three of the Heavy Naval Particle Cannons which made up the original Potemkin armament giving the station additional punch. One of these weapons had been used to obliterate a pirate DropShip several years before as a show of force further power was not something that Blannin was will to entertain.
“How about defensive items such as anti-missile systems?†Briton suggested “in exchange we’ll give you a fifth docking collar? Which should be more than enough for a garrison, communication staff and whatever else you wish to pass through the station.â€
“I will confirm with my superiors if that is an option.†Blannin said “for not we’ll agree to provide you with an HPG in exchange for the garrison and the docking collars discussed.â€
“Well bargained and done, Captain†Briton said rising from her chair “now please you, the major and your friends should join my family for a meal to cement this deal.â€
“Agreed, I hope this is the start of a lasting relationshipâ€
-
Presentation Ceremony, Algonquin Theatre
Jefferson City, Freedom
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
8th February 3115
The arena was filled with twelve thousand people assembled on a triple tier which faced down on a single display podium. The owner and announcer of the Algonquin Theatre Wolfgang Bogdanow was both nervous and excited today various companies were showing off the new Mechs which were being presented to the defenders of Freedom with Duke Brandt Simons-Steiner here in person to accept them. Recently Freedom had been a nervous world with the Rasalhague Dominion and Clans Jade Falcon, Hell’s Horses and Coyote all bearing down towards the planet and Brandt Simons-Steiner’s brother Bodeven had been making noise about taking a more proactive position in defence against the Clans. In response Brandt had spent money from the Simons-Steiner coffers and was now bringing in a new mixed battalion of forces for the defenders including many new Clan Mechs. The presentation here at the Algonquin Theatre would put the site and Bogdanow on the map and bring in plenty money in the coming months.
Now the first Mech a BattleMaster 6C was being presented with its twin cockpit the most stand out feature the Command Console mounted in the head of the BattleMech providing superior command capabilities. The BattleMaster was an old design but still a favourite across the Inner Sphere which constantly adapted to the changing environment of the Inner Sphere, this version of the venerable Mech featured twin pulse lasers and a short-range missile launcher which provided close in firepower while medium to long range firepower was provided by four light autocannons. The eighty-five-ton BattleMech turned slowly showing everyone its firepower. At the back of the Mech there were two extended range small lasers which would add further defence to the Mech. Because of the half circle design of the Algonquin Theatre the crowd were able to get closer to the eighty-five-ton Mech than most people could be while being safe due to the Solaris VII-style energy barriers which were employed around the entire arena.
As the applause rang out Wolfgang Bogdanow spoke “Ladies and gentlemen, from a venerable giant to an invader’s Mech which now serves in our defence.†He said as the BattleMaster thumped out of the arena a far smaller design walked in. Weighing in at thirty-five tons the hunched over Puma BattleMech painted in the black, silver and brown of Clan Wolf stood proud in front of them all. The crowd murmured as the OmniMech extended its arms stretching like a human would “the Puma S is a design we will be employing in the future to defend our cities from intrusion and for hunting down Clan Elementals.†Wolfgang said the Mech was equipped with multiple pulse lasers in the arms but that was not the most horrifying aspect of the Mech, sixteen machine guns covered the arms and torso of the Mech making the Mech more than capable of cutting down multiple infantry soldiers or Battle Armoured troopers in moments. The Mech turned slowly on the platform flexing its arms and twisting its torso giving people the full experience of the light Mech. “Built by Clan Mountain Wolf on Gallery the Puma is…†he began to explain more about the Mech when he saw the energy barrier stutter and then suddenly fail “…oh my…†He said his words failing him “ladies and gentlemen, no need to worry we’ve had a minor technical hitch but you’re perfectly safe…†he began to say as the Puma continued its routine but then stopped when facing the Royal box. For a moment time seemed to slow as the Puma’s machine guns, pulse lasers and torso mounted flame thrower opened fire with a thunderous noise cutting down the duke, his immediate family and hundreds of civilians who were caught in the attack as the Puma’s pilot specifically targeted the area with bullets and pulse laser fire.
Wolfgang Bogdanow knew he was ruined by the sudden and deadly attack but he’d be a patriot and seal in the Puma long enough to slow it and allow the milita to arrive and arrest the pilot. Turning to reach for the emergency lockdown button in his control room Bogdanow’s thoughs of financial ruin and his control over his arms failed him in an instant as a burning white vibroblade sliced through his back and penetrated his chest. For a moment Wolfgang Bogdanow stared down at the blade, his thoughts escaping him as he looked at the weapon and knew the result and then he slipped into unconsciousness and death.
“One, Two, your clear control eliminated.†The power armoured assassin said allowing the body to fall to the floor her feminine voice and body movement clear even through the power armour. As she spoke the Puma continued to fire with its arms now turning on staff and guards from around the building showering more areas of the theatre in heavy machine gun fire.
“Received, link up with Three and evacuate.†The other person replied as the Puma ceased fire the theatre was on fire, there were hundreds of casualties in the stands and hundreds more scrambling for cover while there were thousands of shell casings at the OmniMech’s feet. “Four, Five, I am evacuating.â€
“Understood One, the militia are all over the place answering calls you’ll only have a flight of ready VTOLs and some Battle Armour to contend with.†Four replied the pilot did not like the sound of that but didn’t respond instead he turned the OmniMech and ran down the late night streets of Jefferson City. Around the Theatre hundreds of private vehicles were trying to get clear of the scene of the attack jamming the roads for ground vehicles. The thirty-five ton OmniMech was not going to be stopped by traffic jams though and ran through the parked vehicles smashing them to the side or crushing them as it went.
“This thing might be Clan Tech but remember I don’t have the range.†The pilot said continuing to run the small Clan Mech down through the streets towards the harbour.
“For once you don’t need it, I’ve got you covered†another voice said over the comms.
“We’ve got lift off from city base four VTOLs all different models†another of the team reported. “They’ll be with you in a couple of minutes.
“I’ll be near the harbour by then, Dominic, feel free to chime in when you’re ready.†One said breaking their codes.
“Command sent†he replied from several roof tops long range missile and autocannon batteries began to fire into the air at the incoming VTOLs and down at the militia base. The weapons fire was damaging buildings and starting mini-fires across the downtown city. Each of them had been hacked to fire on automation until they were out of ammunition.
“You’re clear Bounty Hunter, they will not brave that storm of weapons fire, you’re clear, we’ll see you after extraction.â€
“Affirmative, thanks for the assist†Christopher Grant aka the Bounty Hunter replied smashing his Puma through the gate to the harbour and down one of the piers he ignored the small arms fire directed at his Mech as he threw the Mech off the end of the pier and sunk into the depths of the harbour. Within a minute the Mech was safely on the floor of the harbour its hull perfectly sealed for this kind of operation he reached over to a detonator control he’d attached to the side of the cockpit and pressed the button detonating explosive they’d placed on the bottom of several of the ships. As the ships began to sink throwing cargo and people into the water and stirring up the sediment at the base of the water obscuring movement below the waves, this covered his escape into the depths of Freedom’s ocean.
With the Duke dead a power struggle made up of his supporters against those of his brother began on Freedom driving the world into a state of civil war as the local militia was overwhelmed by multiple forces on different sides. During the following days the Bounty Hunter’s team evacuated with hundreds of other civilians’ intent on escaping the world before things got really bad while for a week Christopher Grant survived on combat rations as he walked his Puma across the ocean bed to a small island. Emerging at night the Mech was guided across the beach and into a cargo container he then dismounted from the OmniMech and headed to a local motel where he already had a booking. For a week the Bounty Hunter remained in the motel keeping a low profile as Freedom continued to go through the pains of losing its leader.
While Freedom was an important world to the Isle of Skye the sudden loss of its Duke had destabilized the world. The Bounty Hunter then left on a DropShip bound for Skye his Puma, which would form part of his team’s payment for this job, would be shipped off the world separately or his employer would send him a new one if it wasn’t possible to send that particular Mech. Either way the job was done and Christopher Grant was off to his next challenge.
Border Raid
Sarna, Lee PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th February 3115
Madison Liao, Duchess of Andurien, Daughter of Dao-Shen Liao, screamed in anger as the flames consumed her BattleMech and the autocannon fire tore down the left arm of her Cataphract BattleMech. She had chosen Sarna as a target for her unit’s raid against the Federated Suns but unfortunately the Clinton’s Cutthroats mercenary command which defended the world had been ready for them and were making her people pay for every inch of territory they captured. Now a Cutthroats Legionnaire BattleMech was chewing her Mech’s left hand side to pieces with its rotary autocannon and inferno equipped short range missiles. The Cataphract was a traditional Capellan design which had been reborn with new technology she twisted the Mech’s turret-styled torso to track the Legionnaire firing her Mech’s gauss rifle in an attempt to knock down the lighter Mech unfortunately the Legionnaire was too fast for her shot and the supersonic slug went wide tearing up the ground behind the fifty-ton BattleMech. Now in behind her more autocannon blasts tore into the rear left torso of the Mech breaching the armour and damaging a heat sink mounted there. Horrible green black fluid exploded from her Mech’s torso running to the ground Madison triggered both of her Mech’s rear mounted medium lasers scoring two hits on the running Legionnaire a small victory and one that only caused minimal damage. Already the Legionnaire was running past her Mech’s back now hitting the back of her right leg and arm but mercifully missing the torso and the gauss rifle mounted there. Two short range missiles flew past the Cataphract’s position thankfully missing her Mech which already was struggling with heat build up from the pervious strike and exploded on the ground throwing inferno jelly everywhere. Moments later Madison’s relief turned to horror as she realized the missiles had not missed and were not meant for her and she saw four battle armoured troopers walk from the flames their armour ablaze the soldiers literally being cooked alive in their armour. Three of the troopers had the wits about them to drop to the ground and try to knock off the jelly but it was to no effect and none of the squad survived the strike.
Even more angry at seeing members of her unit killed by an opponent she hadn’t been able to defeat Madison Liao twisted the Cataphract to her right-hand side and unleashed both her Mech’s gauss rifle and particle cannon in an attempt to strike down the Legionnaire. If only one weapon could hit her enemy, she’d have preferred it to be the gauss rifle with its kinetic striking power the weapon could take an arm or leg completely off the enemy medium Mech unfortunately only the particle cannon struck home damaging more armour on the still fast-moving enemy. Madison moved her stance and fired both variable speed pulse lasers but neither hit the target as the Legionnaire turned on her again the over head autocannon roared to life as did its arm mounted short range missile launcher.
As autocannon munitions exploded all over her Mech’s torso several shots hit her Mech’s head rattling Madison’s teeth as she was thrown around the cockpit. She had no way to prepare for the two short range missiles exploding directly in front of her showering her BattleMech with another salvo of inferno jelly. The heat levels spiked inside the Cataphract’s cockpit as her Mech’s heat sinks struggled then failed to deal with the rising heat. Madison like all all MechWarriors wore as little clothing as possible and a coolant vest to help deal with the heat produced inside the BattleMech during battle but even these measures did little to help as the temperature skyrocketed. In all of her twenty years Madison Liao had never felt such heat but giving into it was the last thing she could do she slapped the system shutdown override and tried to breath while commanding the seventy-ton Mech to move and try to knock off some of the inferno jelly all while trying to track the Legionnaire.
While she multi-tasked she suddenly melt something off, something burning, she checked the external filters but they had reacted to the external fire and were closed. She glanced around the cockpit even as more autocannon fire raked down her Mech for no she could probably survive the autocannon rounds if there was fire in her cockpit, she’d be dead in seconds. Glancing upwards she saw it one of the autocannon rounds had penetrated the cockpit’s frame breaching it and now she was smelling the fumes coming from the fire outside. Confident there was no fire inside the cockpit she turned back to the fight at hand just as the Legionnaire charged in close to her and swung one of its balled fist hands up, she’d been still trying to locate the source of the smell and given up her situational awareness an easy mistake to make for a young pilot. It was at this moment that Duchess Madison Liao realized she could do nothing as the Legionnaire’s left then right fist slammed into the Cataphract’s body first came a blow to the chest which ravaged and smashed the armour while the other slammed into the Cataphract’s faceplate. Fifty tons of attacking BattleMech slammed its fist through the cockpit even if the cockpit armour had not already been damaged it would have likely killed the pilot, the fist punched through the head armour into the cockpit crushing Madison Liao in her command chair. As the Clinton’s Cutthroat’s Legionnaire withdrew its fist from the Cataphract’s Mech and without control the Mech collapsed in a heap. The mercenary pilot knew nothing about the pilot they had killed and ran off after the next target as Madison Liao lay dead on the field within hours the invaders had retreated from the world in disarray carrying word of the Duchess death back to the Capellan Confederation.
Throne Room,
Crimson, Salonika
Canopus, Magistracy of Canopus
17th February 3115
Entering the Throne Room of House Centrella on the world of Canopus Commanding-General Victor Focht was glad to see the joint guard of two Royal Black Watch and two Centrella Rangers warriors snap to attention in unison. They had not been together for long but already appeared to realize that the best way for them to do their jobs was to work as a team, which was the whole point behind the Star League Defence Force. For seventeen years Victor Focht had served as Commanding-General of the Star League and he’d never been to the Centrella family’s royal residence nor even Canopus. It was a beautiful if humid world with rolling hills and forests which covered the deep mines that dotted the landscape. Wearing his regular duty green uniform Victor approached the Magestix who sat on her golden throne waiting for him. Magestix Ilsa Centrella was a beautiful woman now approaching her forty-second birthday she wore a gleaming green dress which fit her athletic body well and had golden threads running through it, on her head she wore matching green jewels which framed her head and fit in nicely with her dark skin hair. As he approached the throne Victor saluted the Magestix and First Lord, she would be his immediate superior for her term as First Lord.
“Welcome to Crimson†Ilsa said as he approached “I hope you find the facilities we are providing your people here on our capital?â€
“Affirmative First Lord they are very impressive facilities and they have good access ways to all of the cities main transport routes.†He said appreciative of the Magistracy’s efforts to make them comfortable “I must say I was impressed with your efforts to repair the shipyards in this system they are coming on well.â€
“Thank you, my engineers will appreciate your praise I am sure, we could not continue to rely solely on the Trznadel Cluster Shipyards to provide transport for our realm first the Alliance Aerospace Group’s Bass Shipyards were brought online and now we are closing on having the Diamond Garter Shipyards operational for the first time since the First Star League almost completely destroyed them during the Reunification War.†She said Focht knew exactly what the point she was making was; that the Magistracy was rebuilding to its previous strength with or without the SLDF’s help. “What is the status of the SLDF at present?â€
“The largest expansion of the SLDF in many years is underway the Knights Corps has officially been activated within its ranks.â€
“The Knights Corps?†She asked not familiar with the formation.
“At present it stands at twenty combined-arms battalions each made up of a company of Mechs, armour and battle armour supported by some aerospace units. These commands are led by a Knight of the Star League Protectorate and each of these Knights comes from a member world of the Protectorate. Their mission is to promote the message of peace throughout the Star League nations and help resolve conflicts and assist local defenders in preparing to protect their own land instead of relying on external forces to save them.†He explained “the SLDF’s plan is for there to be a formation active for every Protectorate world.â€
“Every world? There are over seventy systems currently claimed by the Protectorate.â€
“Almost ninety now with Ruchbah, Basalt and Kawich in the Federated Suns, Hamilton in the Free Worlds League and both Shiloh and Pheoda from the Lyran Commonwealth all chosing to join the Protectorate this year.†He explained “the SLDF is dedicated to their defence and while each planet will be provided for with Militia Guard forces the Exarch believed that it was time that the SLDF had a unifying force which could provide additional political and diplomatic powers to deployed commands and systems that needed it the Knights will provide this support. Each Knight will carry the authority to speak for the Star League Defence Force and the Exarch of the Protectorate worlds giving them much political and resources support. The Exarch sees them as the Star League’s olive branch force, capable of bringing some peace and security as well as a fighting force.†He explained alone a single battalion was not a lot of troops but if one of the Knight forces arrived on a planet most nations would learn that they were the lead elements of a far larger force. Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion had instructed that the Knights Corps do not lead assault forces but instead act as their own travelling support force picking their own destinations and helping where they could, almost like a state sponsored mercenary force.
“And with all this spent on the Protectorate how much will be spent on other nations defence, such as those of your new First Lord?†She asked probing, “she like all of the other House Lords? Those that keep your Protectorate relevant and do not rip it to pieces.†She asked barely concealing the threat despite the Magistracy having not claim to threaten the Protectorate.
“Magestix Centrella†Victor Focht said intentionally dropping her title of First Lord. “Already SLDF Engineering Teams have landed on Gallis and are gathering resources that will see them build the largest supply and support facility in this entire region. The Royal Black Watch and naval forces have also entered your realm to support you and help your nation, the Magistracy of Canopus will benefit greatly from the SLDF’s presence. At present the SLDF’s main force are moving to help counter Clan threats from Clans Jade Falcon, Hell’s Horses, Snow Raven, Nova Cat and Wolf while all of them press Inner Sphere and periphery targets.†He explained as the SLDF primarily tried to function as a shield for the Inner Sphere.
Already this week we have seen three more Federated Suns worlds fall to the Snow Raven advance while AFFS defenders had narrowly defended the system of Woodbine from falling. There were numerous rumours that there was a split in the AFFS hampering defensive efforts.â€
“So, no more forces a shame.â€
“For now, no while you prosecute an attack on a nearby SLDF ally further support may take some time.†Victor Focht warned, on Terra the Advisory council had raised concerns with the Commanding-General that the Magistracy would try to use SLDF forces against their allies in the Free Worlds League, something Victor would not allow was for his people to get drawn into a regional conflict.
Border raids
Jade Falcon OZ
21st February 3115
In an attempt to force back Clan Jade Falcon forces away from the Coventry system Lyran Commonwealth forces supported by mercenary commands and two SLDF Regimental Brigades assault the worlds of Krievci, Incukalns, Zanderji and Atocongo with an aim to liberating these four systems. Unfortunately, Lyran scouts heading into the Krievci and Inckalns systems detect that in both systems the Jade Falcons have WarShips waiting for the incoming forces including a Battleship in each system. Fearing heavy losses before they even made landfall Lyran commanders call off the attacks on both systems instead fortifying Coventry from attack.
The attacks on Zanderji and Atocongo however are a complete success as Lyran and SLDF forces invade both systems the 1894th Regimental Brigade of the SLDF splitting its forces to support the Nineteenth Arcturan Guards to retake both systems. In both cases however the Lyrans find Clan Sea Fox defenders with the Jade Falcons completely gone from both systems the Sea Foxes agree to fight honour trials for both worlds allowing for minimal losses on both sides. Due to the cordial nature of the engagements the Lyrans and SLDF troops learn from the Foxes that the Jade Falcons have turned over Esteros, Bountiful Harvest, A Place and Morges to Sea Fox forces leaving them only with Sudeten in the region cutting Sudeten completely off from the rest of the Occupation Zone. While it is a strategy that none of the Inner Sphere realms would be comfortable it does not concern the Falcons as none of the other Clans around them are primarily naval Clans and do not have enough ships to enforce a blockade, while having the Falcons can also use the rite of Safcon to allow for uninterrupted travel. Meanwhile Lyran and Star League Intelligence scratch their heads and search nearby systems for the garrisons of the four systems which the Jade Falcons had moved without them realizing.
Planetary Administrator’s Office
Gallery, New Stockholm
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
26th February 3115
It was cold on Gallery as the world descended into its winter season but then the windswept surface of Gallery was always cold and inhospitable Riko Danvers, the Scientist-General of the Mountain Wolf Clan, hated the world and he hated the Lyran Commonwealth for placing them there. Apparently, the world’s defences had never been breached it was a natural fortress with hundreds of tunnels underground many of which led nowhere a labyrinth under the cold surface. Unknown to the Lyrans since the remains of the Mountain Wolves had made Gallery their home, they had converted several of the tunnels to their own uses.
Placing his thick wolf fur lined jacket over his leather desk chair Riko Danvers immediately felt like he was being watched spinning around to his right quickly he drew a laser pistol from its shoulder holster. He always carried a weapon and knew how to use it as he didn’t trust the Mountain Wolf warriors not to turn on him someday even if most of them were too inexperienced or too many years old to challenge him.
“Hello Riko†the figure said sitting on the chair in the far darkened corner of the room even from here he could tell it was a female wearing a Wolf warrior’s duty uniform. Even in the darkness that his much of her face he could see her bright red hair which he guessed she’d modelled after Natasha Kerensky like so many had over the years. It took him several moments to realize who the woman was she’d aged more than the years that had passed he could now see as his eyes adjusted to the darkness that her left eye had been replaced with a cybernetic one which was coloured blue like her natural eye.
“Misara is that you?†He asked slowly moving his finger from the laser pistol’s trigger.
“Aff, Riko, it is good to see you again.â€
“And you, how did you get here?â€
“I arrived in the Inner Sphere approximately six months ago and I arrived on Gallery with the Sea Fox transport this morning.â€
“Our people are in the Sea Fox Clan?†He asked it was a revaluation to him, he hadn’t realized there were potential allies so close. Each cell of their society was locked off from the others with contact kept to a minimum.
“Our people are everywhere. I take it that things are progressing well here, quiaff?â€
“Affirmative, the Kharon and Puma S sales continue to bring in resources for the Mountain Wolves resources that we continue to use to develop new weapons to target our enemies." He said naming the BattleMech and OmniMech which the Mountain Wolves primarily produced on Gallery the majority of their current production was sold to the Commonwealth and to the Fire Mandrills in the Rim Collection. "We have also finished work on a new Long Range Missile carrier to support ground forces and sell to our hosts in the Commonwealth. As they have Clans on every border, they buy lots of weapons and ask little questions it has been quite a boon for our people.â€
“And your control over the warriors?â€
“Absolute†he said confidently even though he didn’t trust them he knew he controlled them. “When the majority of the Clan rejoined Clan Wolf it devastated our ability to maintain the genetic diversity needed for a Trueborn program as a result we have an increased number of freeborns in our Touman, few of which have the political knowledge to challenge the status quo.†He explained “a few of our younger members have agitated under the exile we have found ourselves in on this world desiring to fight and defeat enemies of the Mountain Wolves and of the Lyran people but we have been able to keep these desires in check with their able leaders falling to unfortunate accidents.â€
“And the warriors have not questioned these accidents, quineg?â€
“When most of them are near the end of their career or just out of their cannister they barely have any idea on what is going on.†He said confidently finally putting the pistol away and moving around his desk “we control the Mountain Wolves entirely as you do the Homeworlds.â€
“Not quite†she admitted looking at the floor for a moment “the Clans continue to resist efforts in the Homeworlds and our people have been unable to draw them into a final conflict.†She said “instead we believe we need to use what you have researched here in your special section†she explained Riko Danvers eyes widened in surprise, while he had tried to get the Lyrans to use the weapon when they hadn’t they’d given the go ahead he’d drawn back from its development, “we will target a population centre on Fasa, somewhere we know they will be and have it run through their population.â€
“It… it has not been tested like that, it was not part of the plan we had aimed to target the Iron Wombs, I have no idea what the effect will be on a primarily freeborn population.†He stammered shocked at what she had suggested his people had developed the weapon yes but to release them into a general population had not been part of the plan instead they had planned to release it into their enemies Iron Wombs slaughtering their future generations and contaminating their Bloodlines one at a time.
“Then test it!†She nearly shouted her anger boiling he was sure her cybernetic eye glowed red for a moment to reflect her rising temper. “We need to know that it will effectively pass from person to person and between worlds, this is most important Riko we need that data we need it to hurt them.â€
“I will have my people do simulations and give us data.â€
“Simulations?†Misara laughed out loud “you are in the Inner Sphere Riko Danvers you have a wealth of worlds to target… pick one, but do not get caught.†She warned rising from the chair “I’ll return soon Riko, you had better get that data for us, time is short for all of us. Now your continued life depends on it.†She warned him “otherwise if you are unable to pick a target, I will ensure that one of my people release your little plague here among your population and we’ll get the data anyway.†She threatened leaving the room before he could get answer. He couldn’t track her down without rising suspicion and she knew it, he needed to work fast or everything he’d built here would come crashing down around him.
Naval Battle, Sovereign (Sovereign-class Carrier)
Winfield, Woodbine PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
28th February 3115
Two Clan Snow Raven WarShips had jumped into the Winfield system surprising a Federated Suns WarShips and the Fourth Crucis Lancers RCT who were preparing for an attack against the Raven Alliance. This attack was designed to distract the AFFS as Snow Raven forces launched an attack on Kilbourne tying up AFFS forces while the Ravens invaded. The combined firepower of the Ravens had destroyed the FSS Bravery, a Federated Suns First Prince II-class Battleship, and now they were hunting down the ground forces DropShips.
Standing on the bridge of the Snow Raven vessel Sovereign, the first Sovereign-class Carrier which had been commissioned into the Snow Raven navy, Star Captain Hakke Sukhanov watched the Federated Suns counter-attack unfold. In the Snow Raven Touman Hakke Sukhanov was considered to be a Ristar and had been tipped as a potential warrior for Khanship in the future for himself Hakke Sukhanov ignored such claims. “Warn the Spartan that the Federated Suns have assault transports in that attack, they should expect boarding parties!†He warned watching the AFFS LAM and aerospace fighter force throw themselves into their attack against the Spartan and its aerospace wing “instruct our fighters to assist them!†He commanded the Sovereign had moved around the wreckage of the Bravery and it was attempting to get back into position to support the other Raven WarShip which was when the Fourth had launched its attack ‘they know they are done for but they intend on making us pay for it.’ Sukhanov thought watching as DropShips followed the fighters and LAMs with enough forces in an area a ship could get onto a WarShip and if they did that then all bets were off.
“Helm bring us into a broadside position with the Spartan†Sukhanov commanded as the vessel began to approach the ongoing battle “weapons to target their DropShips, bring them all down†he said watching as LAMs landed on the Spartan converting into their Mech configuration they targeted the vessel’s hull opening it for Battle Armoured troopers to drop directly from the DropShips into the vessel. The Sovereign’s weapons brought down three DropShips in rapid succession but the damage was done and Sukhanov could see the Spartan had now been boarded by dozens of Battle Armour troopers. These brave soldiers had sacrificed themselves distracting the Ravens from finishing off the other ground forces less than two combined regiments would escape the Raven attack crippling the RCT but now the Ravens were about to pay an unacceptable cost. Watching the attack continue Sukhanov breathed deeply before speaking “weapons target the Spartan with an intent of destroying the vessel.†He commanded for several moments afterwards you could hear a pin drop on the command deck but the crew did as he asked. Sukhanov continued to be focused on the Holotank image watching as the Spartan began to slowly list to the port suggesting that there had been an interruption to helm control. “Anything on the status of the crew?â€
“Continued fighting onboard Star Captain Sukhanov some explosions are coming from within the vessel.†One of the bridge crew suggested as data continued to be gathered on the seven hundred-and-ten thousand ton WarShip. They were sitting less than three kilometres from the ship and the Sovereign was powerless to assist their Clankin on the other vessel. Both ships had been damaged in the fight with the Bravery but they should have been able to resist the ground forces counter-assault, the crew of the Spartan should not have allowed them to get close enough to board their ship, as the more heavily armed vessel the Spartan had been the ship that they had targeted Sukhanov was impressed by their bravery after seeing their WarShip destroyed by Snow Raven fire.
“Loss of contact with Spartan bridge crew!â€
“Continued fighting onboard the ship!â€
“LAM craft abandoning the vessel and turning towards us!â€
Rapid fire reports came through the bridge one by one as Sukhanov stood and watched AFFS forces were attempting to turn their attention now on the Sovereign classing the Spartan as no longer a threat which meant one of two things. Firstly, that the Spartan had been captured by the invaders or secondly that the vessel was close to destruction Sukhanov had already decided that if the first had happened then he was going to ensure that the second eventuality also happened.
“Gunnery crews, defend us from incoming threats with conventional and sub-capital weapons†Sukhanov ordered “none of them are to close on our vessel.†He initially ordered “communications try Spartan’s bridge again.â€
“No communications, sir, it is possible the transceiver has been damaged.†The crewman suggested but Sukhannov could see that the Spartan was no longer firing on AFFS targets allowing the remaining fighters to concentrate on the Snow Raven fighters in the area.
“General broadcast for our forces†Sukhanov ordered then after a moment “all Snow Raven vessels in the vicinity of the Spartan clear the space, I repeat clear the space, any Sovereign crew receiving this message are ordered to abandon their ship.†He said allowing the message to be passed out and understood he watched as the Spartan continued to spin showing no sense of control. There was also more importantly no counter command to his from the ship, the crew of the Spartan unable to answer him, which made his next decision easier “weapons positions, fire at will on the Spartan, destroy that ship.â€
While weapons fire continued to be directed in the defence of the Sovereign from incoming aerospace forces the majority of the WarShips weapons now turned onto their former sister ship. Naval versions of the BattleMech’s particle cannon spat out from the Sovereign’s weapons positions and tore through the Spartan’s armoured hull. At this range it was impossible for the crewmen to miss the uncontrolled vessel and particle cannon blasts burned away the armour plate by plate tearing pieces off of the vessel. Able to coordinate and concentrate their fire the gunners onboard the Sovereign penetrated the Spartan’s armour within two salvos exploiting damage already done by the FSS Bravery and the boarding actions. Close to the hull of the Spartan a Federated Suns Stinger LAM was vapourized for being in the wrong place at the wrong times as a particle cannon blast tore through the fighter as it slammed into the WarShip beyond. While the inside of a WarShip was designed to resist damage like the outside of the vessel there was only so much that the vessel could take and the continuous attack by the Sovereign took its tole on the ship. Even as the Sovereign continued to fire the Spartan’s reactors lost containment and the vessel was consumed by an expanding fireball with explosions sending parts of the Spartan across the jump point. In time those fragments would fall into Kilbourne’s star and burn up one last time.
With the destruction of the Spartan complete and the Sovereign’s defences holding the remains of the Fourth Crucis Lancers scattered attempting to return to the surface of the planet their forces harried all the way. The Sovereign recovered as many survivors as they could from the Spartan, the remaining aerospace fighters and surviving DropShips before leaving the system. From Winfield the surviving elements of the Fourth Crucis Lancers travelled and joined the First Crucis Lancers on Woodbine combining with that command.
-
Throne Room
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Draconis March, Federated Suns
1st March 3115
Standing in front of Coordinator Hirohito Kurita, the leader of the Draconis Combine, Gunji-no-Kanrei Kaimoto Inokashira knew that he had failed and that his life was forfeit. The Coordinator could not spare him for this most recent failure he and the Coordinator had been successful many times recently but this failure was unacceptable. Standing with his head bowed lower than he normally would Kaimoto delivered the end of his report.
“While we have success in the Glenmora, Tallmage and Fairfield systems, New Ivaarsen, Dobson and Le Blanc. Glenmora, Tallmage and Fairfield systems and we have retaken Benjamin and the Ludwig system. Unfortunately, the District of Dieron seized Umjiri, Katapha and Junction before our troops could move in.†Kaimoto Inokashira said bowing even lower the failure to seize three systems before the break away district was another failure which the Coordinator was making him retell.
“The status on Benjamin?â€
“After four years of Federated Suns occupation†Inokashira reported from his extended bow “there is little on Benjamin that resembles the world that was taken. The Federated Suns levelled Fort Shadra, destroyed the Osaka Training Fields and we believe moved the Whitworth Specialty Manufacturing Complex to an unknown location along with the relocation of all of the companies registered employees.†He said making his report the loss of the factory was a minor one the design had not kept up with modern advances in technology if the Federated Suns wished to waste resources in continuing to build them the Coordinator would not stop them.
“Continue†he commanded not leaving his throne chair
“The lack of resistance in the so-called Benjamin Salient was explained when our forces entered the New Ivaarsen system…†Inokashira said pausing still remained in his bowed position unsure if the Combine wished to hear the rest.
“Continue, in your own words Gunji-no-Kanreiâ€
“Hai!†He said answered his Coordinator’s command “on entering the New Ivaarsen system we expected to encounter a WarShip and both New Ivaarsen Regiments.†He explained “intelligence failed to notice that the Davion Assault Guards and Davion Light Guards were also transiting the system after being driven back by our forces.†He said trying to make it sound like a victory unfortunately the both knew that the Federated Suns had given up Benjamin due to the Draconis Combine threatening Robinson. “The Federated Suns forces were prepared for us and fell on the DCS Vincent Kurita, the DCS Osumi and the DCS Shohei Maru. While our vessels did destroy one of the Federated Suns WarShips and several DropShips all three vessels were forced to sacrifice themselves to save our JumpShips and ground forces. Our ground forces have returned to our territory and are ready to join the assault on Robinson.â€
“Which now teeters on the brink of being impossible thanks to the presence of these elite RCTs and their WarShips being within jumping distance. How did intelligence fail to realize that the Federated Suns units had retreated from Benjamin?â€
“We believe the Federated Suns employed a ruse similar to that of what the Draconis Combine did during the Clan War when facing Clans Smoke Jaguar and Star Adder. They employed minefields, fixed artillery, dozens of IndustrialMechs and modified vehicles to man fire bases to make them appear to be fully defended when in fact they were not. While Special Forces teams were employed to in fact strike at the invasion forces early and get their attention before disappearing into the wilderness.â€
“I want them hunted down and killed.â€
“Several teams have already been killed they made no attempt to surrender or escape the world instead attacking our people when they encountered them, we believe the AFFS left them behind intentionally, this was a suicide mission.â€
“You know what these losses mean to the Draconis Combine?†Coordinator Hirohito Kurita asked the man remained bowed and did not answer. “By your order you have caused the deaths of thousands of our people and by your order you will wipe the stain from our nation. Disband the Vincent Kurita Naval Flotilla as your last act as my Gunji-no-Kanrei and then you know what must be done?â€
“Hai!†He answered simply the Coordinator was allowing him the honourable way out to pass one last set of orders and then to commit seppuku, the final act of a disgraced warrior ritual suicide.
“Then be gone, fulfil my orders.†He ordered hours later the Gunji-no-Kanrei was dead by his own hands and those of his closest aide. Over the course of the next few days more than a dozen of his personnel staff had also committed seppuku for their failures to the Gunji-no-Kanrei, to the Coordinator and to the Draconis Combine. By the order of Coordinator Hirohito Kurita, the former commander of the Ghost Regimental Division Marissa Michika became the new Gunji-no-Kanrei of the Draconis Combine making her the first woman to hold the post.
Trial of Possession
The Rack, Stone Spirit Territory
3rd March 3115
Following attacks into their territory Clan Sea Fox punish the Lyran Commonwealth in several ways firstly they withdraw their entire trade fleet from the Lyran Commonwealth sending it into the nations surrounding the Commonwealth. Even Stone Spirit space which was considered to be little more than a bandit kingdom by the Clans saw Sea Fox traders appear on their worlds following the withdrawal from Lyran space with the Clansmen even honouring the Stone Spirits with an honour trial in The Rack system where the Seventh Cruiser Cluster win control over the system. The Sea Fox’s first action once gaining control of the system is to rename it Port Vail, the name in which the world had been known during the First Star League.
While not classed as a trade embargo officially without Sea Fox traders inside their nation the only Clan technology available in Lyran merchants is that which is produced in the Lyran Commonwealth, mainly by the Mountain Wolves, and that which is taken in combat.
Capellan Raid-in-Force, Outside City of Argo
New Aragon, Bell PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th March 3115
“With respect Duchess, we must retreat from this world!†Jiang-jun Dan Gun said looking at the Duchess. Gun was the former commander of the Eighth Capellan Armoured Cavalry. Former because the Eighth had fallen on this world to the guns of the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT and several mercenary bands that harried them. Off to the side Jiang-jun Niklas Turunen the commander of Duchess Zeia Liao’s own Red Lancers stood off shaking his head warning Gun that Zeia Liao was not in the mood for this argument.
“No Jiang-jun, with your surviving forces and those of the Nineteenth Liao Lancers the ranks of the Red Lancers have swelled we have more than enough forces to destroy the Fifth Fusiliers once and for all!†She said angrily turning towards the planning table in the which sat in the centre of their circular command tent.
Duchess Zeia Liao had led three Capellan Confederation regiments supported by two WarShips through four Davion held systems crushing militia and mercenary forces along the way in a tour of destruction retaliating against the Federated Suns for the death of her sister Madison. But here on New Aragon the rage that the Capellans felt had burned out as they encountered an elite AFFS unit which was more than ready for them and equipped for an extended battle. The Fifth was dug into several positions on New Aragon around the capital city of Argo the Regimental Combat Team had held firm when confronted by the Capellan Forces knocking them back during their counter-assault. The Fifth had then done what elite forces were capable of and turned a defence into a full offensive pushing through Capellan defences as their counter-attack turned into a full line assault. The charging Davion forces had first turned their attackers left flank which was held by the Nineteenth Liao Lancers. The unit had crumbled under sustained heavy fire with its survivors streaming through the lines of the other Capellan regiments in disarray with the Fifth behind them baying for Capellan blood. With the forces so intermingled the Capellan naval forces in the system were unable to interfere with the ground battle for fear of destroying their own Duchess the Eighth Cavalry had blunted the Fifth’s rampage through Capellan lines but the damage was done combined the Nineteenth or Eighth could field no more than two combined arms battalions less than a quarter of their original strength. The Red Lancers had gotten off lighter and now stood even stronger than their original strength with the inclusion of the survivors from the other units.
As Zeia Liao stepped back towards the table the Duchess nor her bodyguards saw what was coming next as Dan Gun at fifty-two years of age swung a lighting fast chop which struck the back of Zeia Liao’s neck. The blow struck the short lightly built woman and she crumpled into a heap unconscious but alive, just as Dan Gun had planned. Behind him two guards drew their weapons and fired several shots into his back several of which penetrated his personal armour and body. As he sunk to his knees Dan Gun knew that his life was soon to end, he looked up at Niklas Turunen as blood began to trickle down his face from his mouth. “You’re in command now, do the right thing, protect our duchess.†He whispered before several more bullets hit his body ending his life. He whispered before slumping to the ground dead. A medical team rushed in to tend for their duchess who still laid unconscious. Within hours all Capellan forces on planet were abandoning their defences and returning to their DropShips leaving New Aragon with DropShips, fighters and naval gunfire protecting their retreat and keeping the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT back. Liao Madness had brought the Capellans to this system and now the bravery of one man, who knew his life was over after he watched his regiment fall, had acted to ensure that some of the attack forces could escape.
In retaliation to the Fifth’s resistance on New Aragon and his daughter’s death fighting Clinton’s Cutthroats, Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao orders a surgical strike against Sarna targeting the unit that had killed Madison Liao. In the Inner Sphere where engagements between nations and planets were so common sons and daughters died every day but rarely were those losses felt so high up in a nation’s leadership. On the 19th March 3115 two unidentified Capellan Confederation WarShips jumped into the Sarna system bombarding six separate AFFS military bases intent on crushing the Clinton’s Cutthroats and any other resistance on the planet. Thousands died in the bombardment with several wildfires started in the Sarna mountains that would go on for weeks after the attack but unfortunately for the Capellan forces the Cutthroats had already left the system. Instead, the Capellan WarShips found they themselves under attack as dozens of capital missiles were fired from the surface of Sarna at the two vessels fired from silos buried deep within the mountains of Sarna. Both vessels sustained several missile hits each but they were able to retreat before AFFS forces could capitalize on the damage.
Dig Site
Riken Minor, Rigil Kentarus
Star League Protectorate
23rd March 3115
For three months the combined Star League and Interstellar Expeditions team had excavated the huge doors that covered the access point which they hoped led into the recently discovered fortification. Discovered by a passing SLDF WarShip the base was completely recessed into the surface of Rigil Kentarus moon and had laid undiscovered for centuries. Unused during the Amaris campaign the facility had laid hidden during the various conflicts that had plagued the Inner Sphere.
Dressed in a grey coloured suit with matching sun hat Dr Ruben Urtubi walked into the massive five hundred metre across domed tent which the dig crews used as shelter during their work. Originally from Mexico on Terra Urtubi was used to the heat felt during the day on Riken Minor but some of his colleagues were not hence the tent. There were massive access doors in the roof of the tent which allowed construction workers to pull large finds out for study elsewhere. Inside he saw that the crews and their four ConstructionMechs working on the site were waiting for him approaching he saw his lead assistant Monica Meio step out from the crowd. She like him was from Terra originally coming from the Brazilian city of Porto Alegre she was nearly thirty years younger than him at only twenty-nine years she had dark skin and thick dark curly hair which she wore tied back in a tight ponytail.
“We made it doctor, we have uncovered the access doors fully.†She said greeting him
“Good, very good†he said walking with her towards the facility greeting his co-workers as they approached “are the lifters in position?†He asked as he reached the pit kneeling down to look at the massive armoured doors which his crews had uncovered.
“We have four ships ready to assist us when we are ready.†She said “even if we wanted to blow open the doors, I do not believe we could.â€
“I wouldn’t even if I was held at gun point. The Star League may be in a rush for us to uncover this place following the fall of Zosma but to rush would millions in revenue and ruin the whole reason we are here.†He said his group were here specifically because of Clan Wolf’s recent successes the fall of the Zosma system was just the most recent success of the Clan driving the Fourth Knights of the Inner Sphere from the system and shattering a WarShip in the process. The Star League defenders had taken one of the Wolf vessels with them but the loss of the system was one more blow for the Protectorate. Now the SLDF hoped to use this place as a fortress, a roadblock, to stop the incoming Clan charge. If they could get it operational “Call in the cranes!†he called out “we’ll attach here and here†he explained pointing to the top corner on one side of the door “and the same at the other end. Four pull points as we open our prize.†He said looking up at the workers around him to smiles.
As he was speaking the doors on the roof opened and powerful wires were lowered to the ground from four airships which hovered above the facility. Due to Riken Minor’s low gravity the airships made for the perfect lifting machines capable of lifting far more than they could on a world with heavier gravity. It took them two hours to securely attach the wires and then another hour on top for them to take the strain of the lift and then another agonizing hour of lifting from the four craft opening the one-hundred-metre-long doors. Each time the doors were pulled a little further open they made a loud cracking noise as they were forced open against the ancient mechanism’s wishes exposing the cavern inside to fresh air.
Even as the doors opened Urtubi and his team were crawling over the opening trying to see what was being uncovered inside. Immediately they knew that they had hit the jackpot with this particular door as inside the cavern they could see the image of an ancient Drost-class Transport DropShip “in the first room!†Urtubi thought excited by the find primitive even in the Star League-era the Drost was primarily an infantry and cargo carrying vessel which wouldn’t exactly set the Inner Sphere on fire with it being found but the vessel looked like it was in a near perfect condition and it had laid here unseen for centuries and it could be only the first in thousands of finds for Urtubi and his people.
Before the doors were even fully open Urtubi, Meio and several others had begun dressing in safety harnesses ready for the two hundred metre drop to the bottom of the launch bay aiming to land near the nose of the Drost. “After you, Doctor†Meio said smiling to him when the two of them were finally ready to enter the bay below Urtubi smiled and then stepped off the edge and the others in his party began to lower him down, it was a slow process and as he was lowered Urtubi took dozens of pictures taking in the whole experience. The launch bay appeared to be in near perfect condition while the Drost in comparison seemed quite weathered, the vessel had obviously been used extensively and had worked a long hard career. It also, Urtubi noted, did not have any SLDF markings instead it featured a red and black jester’s head with eyes peering off to the left-hand side a large hooked nose and a had a chinless manacle smile. It was a mystery that Urtubi would gladly solve.
“Oh, meu Deus!†Monica Meio exclaimed as she landed several metres behind him still attached to his safety lines Urtubi turned and saw what she had seen a skeleton dressed in a tattered mercenary uniform that featured the same jester’s head that was on the DropShip. Beside the body laid a what appeared to be a vintage 10mm Heavy Pistol from the SLDF while beside it lay a pen and a stained note.
Urtubi stood beside the body careful not to touch the body or the note “Welcome to Castle Centaur†he said out loud so his harnesses microphone could pick up the find and leave his hands free to move “the locals do not want guests; the Succession Wars are not their concern.†He said reading further “I’m struggling to read the last part he said into his recorder looks like “the locals… those ********… do not believe the war is their problem, but now we are here… we will not be leaving, we can’t… they are hiding in this bunker with their traps to defend them†Urtubi said “I hope you have better luck than us.â€
“He killed himself†Monica whispered looking at Urtubi who nodded that was his thought as well. “But why? They have weapons, the DropShip has weapons, they could have forced their way out or further into the facility?â€
“It sounds like whomever occupied this place was well dug in.†Urtubi said raising from the skeleton “my guess is they themselves were hiding from someone when they first came here†Urtubi said looking at the DropShip seeing that some of the dings which he’d seen and thought were from hard work looked like weapon fire damage. “Maybe once they were down, they had nothing to get themselves back into the air even if they could get out.â€
“You don’t think the locals could still be here?†She asked in wonder.
“We are here to find out†Urtubi said stepping over to a nearby door finding it freezing to the touch “we’ll uncover your mysteries Castle Centaur.†He said as others landed inside the bay there had been no resistance to them opening the doors and none now that they were in the facility so Urtubi felt confident the place was now abandoned.
Within hours however he had an answer to the SLDF’s quest on whether the facility would be useful to them in their defence of the Inner Sphere. All four access corridors into the hanger were flooded completely scans suggested that they had been intentionally flooded by defence mechanisms built into the facility. Even if half of the corridors were filled with water the facility would be of little use. They were inside Castle Centaur but it was only the beginning of a very long process of gaining access to it.
Planetary assault
Beuller, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Sun
25th March 3115
In the sky over Robinson there was a titanic explosion as a WarShip entered the atmosphere in an uncontrolled manner there was no sense of celebration as the ship and its crew perished. Four WarShips had been assigned to the worlds defence now three of them had been lost fighting against the invading Draconis Combine forces including the Avalon II-class Cruiser the FSS Lucian Davion II which had just fallen. Together the Davion WarShips and their support vessels had destroyed three of the six attacking WarShips delaying the invasion by several days giving the ground troops time to prepare and dig in but that had not been enough.
Now with air superiority over Robinson DCMS forces were dropping through the atmosphere towards the three regiments that waited for them the invasion was not uncontested with several wings of aerospace fighters from the defending RCTs contesting each of the landings but there was simply too many DCMS fighters and DropShips to stop them all. The remaining AFFS WarShip in the system, the Vincent Davion-class Destroyer FSS Lancaster, was still operational feeding information to a relief force via HPG giving the AFFS forces an advantage.
The relief forces made up of battle-hardened units that had fallen back out of the occupied “Benjamin Sailent†area were en-route and would be here within the fortnight meaning that the ground forces on Robinson had to resist for a short period of time. Unfortunately, the DCMS knew that their time on Robinson would likely be limited as well which led to their first targets being the Sandoval Family’s home, the Robinson Battle Academy and Robinson Metal Works intent on destroying all three targets before further AFFS troops could arrive. This invasion was not about occupying Robinson instead it was intended on doing to the Federated Suns what was done to them with the world of Benjamin. Benjamin had been a District capitol before the AFFS invaded and occupied the world as the Draconis Combine had been unable to retake the world quickly the AFFS had been able to strip it of every valuable industry and every piece of military hardware leaving a husk of a world with only the capability to sustain its own people. Now the DCMS wanted to turn that back on the Federated Suns and reduce Robinson to the same capability only in a shorter time period. To hasten these actions the DCMS first used their surviving WarShips and air superiority to bombard the targets from above.
On the ground the First Robinson Rangers RCT, the McKinnon’s Raiders Regiment and the Eighth New Avalon Guards RCTs all threw themselves forwards at the invading units trying to defend the world ignoring the threat of orbital artillery intent on resisting to their last against them five DCMS Regiments.
Meeting Room, Large Gravity Deck
Bel Amica Station (Snowden-class), Trinity Moons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
27th March 3115
Onboard the fifty-one-thousand-ton Snowden-class space station Bel Amica Khan Petra Furey leader of Clan Smoke Jaguar and of the District of Lesnovo marvelled at the sight hidden from view few people even knew the Trinity Moons had such a station hidden away deep within their network of moons. According to the reports she had read the people of the system had purchased the space station from the Taurian Concordat more than a century before and then transported it via JumpShip to this system. They now used it as their primary construction hub having removed the ore processing equipment the mining station was built around and replaced it with a second pressurized dock capable of building small space stations or DropShips.
And now its presence had brought here JumpShip to this largely forgotten corner of the Free World’s League. Even though the Trinity Moons had officially re-joined the Free World’s League decades before and they had three habitable moons orbiting the gas giant few people travelled here other than traders looking to purchase some of the systems natively built items. For decades the system had built their Vulcan 6 and Commonality Space Stations, the primitive Vulcan aerospace fighter, a range of small craft and small DropShips which they had sold across the Free World’s League.
Now Furey had come here and she wanted the system to sign an exclusive contract with the District of Lesnovo to supply at least one Vulcan or Commonality space station for every system in the District, construct two new DropShips for their military one for transporting ground assets and one for aerospace patrol. And to develop a new aerospace fighter based on the Vulcan Aerospace Fighter which would be upgraded with modern engines armour and weapons bought from Clan Sea Fox Furey had already picked a name for the new fighter the Miletus. To pay for these vessels the District, and her Clan, would provide the people of the Trinity Moons with weapons and supplies and access to Clan technology.
The District needed these additional resources to combat the new trade tariffs being introduced by the Districts of Bowang and Regulus who believed that the District of Lesnovo was attempting to undercut them in the FWL markets and was causing tension within the nation with its near continuous raids against the Magistracy of Canopus.
Excalibur (Scimitar-class Missile Cruiser)
Hadrian’s Command, Crucis March
Federated Suns
31st March 3115
The seven hundred-and-seventy-thousand-ton Nova Cat WarShip Excalibur emerged into the system in a flash having travelled thirty light years in a moment. The vessel was still painted in the deep red and black like the Avalon-class WarShip hull that the Nova Cat’s had built on from a distance the vessel would look exactly like the Federated Suns vessel it was pretending to be, and with the information that the Nova Cat Watch had seized the Identification Friend or Foe system of the vessel would make it appear to be a Federated Suns vessel on long range sensors. Standing near the holotable in the centre of the vessel’s command room Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux was proud of her crew they were deep behind enemy lines and the crew had successfully navigated several habited systems without any issues from the planetary systems. Federated Suns planetary leaders had ignored their transit through the systems even after the Excalibur spent four days in the MacIntosh system and they hadn’t been communicated with instead they’d recharged their KF core and jumped clear of the system continuing their journey.
“Are we where we expected to be?†Leroux asked out aloud
“Affirmative Star Admiral†navigator Allan responded from his station “we are fourteen hundred metres from our expected point of arrival.†While that sounded like a lot considering the vessel had just travelled from one system and into another the distance was a tiny one, she could hear the pride in his voice and he deserved to be happy with their work.
“Sensor contact on the port side within weapons range, one Peter-class Scout vessel, war book suggests it is the FSS Inquisitor.†Crewman Sarah reported from her station manning the sensor system.
“Weapons, destroy that vessel now!†Alexandria Leroux ordered. Her command was carried out wordlessly with a salvo of naval-class lasers and autocannon being fired from the cruiser at the far smaller Federated Suns vessel. The amount of firepower used by the Excalibur was overkill for the five-and-a-thousand-ton vessel penetrating the vessel’s hull mid-way across its upper hull the salvo of autocannon fire tore through the vessels structure shattering it. “Good work, sensors reorientate onto the shipyard facilities gather as much information as we can.†She said congratulating the crews as the Inquisitor’s hull began to expand the remaining pieces of its hull being slowly caught by the star’s gravity in time the entire vessel would fall into the star and be lost. “Communications, open a channel so the entire system can hear me.†She said as she saw the Excalibur’s sensors more deeply scanning the shipyard facilities in the system the Nova Cat spy had found this system but its exact composition was unknown.
“You are on Star Admiral†Andrei said from the communications station.
“This is Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux onboard the Clan Nova Cat WarShip Excalibur. Your nation has shown it is capable of resisting Clan Nova Cat.†She said reading the information the ships sensors were picking up five construction slips at the shipyard, one constructing a massive WarShip which was tentatively identified by the Excalibur’s sensors as a Mercury-class WarShip, beside them were several large habitats and warehouse facilities as well as aerospace launch facilities. Around them were dozens of DropShips and beyond appeared to be mining facilities they could spend months studying even this small glimpse into the Federated Suns “secret system.†“My message to you is nothing in your nation is hidden from Clan Nova Cat and we will strike across the stars where and when we wish.†She said looking at Andrei she drew her hand across her throat cutting the channel. “They know who struck them, transfer power from the LF battery and take us out of the system before we get a stronger response. A true battle is not our mission today.†She commanded within the end of the hour the vessel had jumped clear of the system while the defenders scrambled to prepare for a defence that was not needed.
Elsewhere in the Federated Suns Nova Cat forces crossed the border invading the systems of Zolfo, Des Aro and Hoyleton engaging various elements of the Third Crucis Lancers RCT which was spread over the area supporting local militia forces and mercenary units. Intent on ensuring that the Third could not mount any sort of major response the First Nova Cat Guards Cluster targeted the Third’s command base on Tsamma challenging them to an honour trial for a pair of RFL-X3 Rifleman MUSE WIND BattleMechs which the unit was testing. The two Mechs had been refitted with Clan armour and weapons and were planned by the Federated Suns to be the basis for new variants of the ancient BattleMech. As the MUSE WIND refurbishment already had so much Clan tech already featured in it the Nova Cats saw the design as a potential refit, they could use for their own Rifleman BattleMechs, many of which they had originally captured from the Federated Suns.
During the battle on Tsamma the Clan duelling rules of Zellbrigen are rapidly violated by the Federated Suns troops who intend on using their superior numbers of infantry and vehicles to overwhelm the elite Nova Cat unit. Unfortunately, this also allowed the Nova Cat Guards to concentrate their own fire and employ unconventional tactics against the Davion unit. Over recent years the unit had begun to become lighter than a traditional Guards type cluster a change made largely by its leader Star Colonel Victoria Fokker, the only person to hold that Raven bloodname in the Clan, who herself piloted a Kestrel OmniMech. Combining the speed and firepower carried by Clan built machines the used flanking manoeuvres combined with artillery and mass long range missile fire to crush the lighter units of the Lancers and turn their flanks finally surrounding their command elements forcing a surrender of the trial force.
Had it been a true invasion the Nova Cats would likely have had enough firepower to seize control over the world but that was not today’s intention, like the Excalibur’s mission across the Federated Suns the Nova Cats were proving to the Federated Suns that they could strike when and where they wanted and win. The systems of Zolfo, Des Aro and Hoyleton would all become Nova Cat holdings as the remains of the Third Cruicis Lancers mustered on Tsamma following the Nova Cat withdrawal.
-
This one's been held back a bit because I've been trying to write the spin off story "Foresight" and hit a bit of writer's block. Instead I'm pushing forwards with the main storyline (from reading it you may have guessed I got TRO Irregulars this week ;D)
The last bit was inspired a bit by the Sybil stories and others that have floated about a bit in the past. But the reality behind those stories (at least as far as that Admiral knows)
Wolf Assaults
Star League Protectorate
1st April 3115
A rebuild Ninth Wolf Guard Cluster re-join Clan Wolf forces assaulting the Star League Protectorate assaulting the systems of Shiloh and Wing. Due to the presence of two Star League Special Operations Teams on Wing Star Colonel Alaric Ward leads the majority of his Cluster to Wing while the remains of his Cluster along with support elements from the Tenth Wolf Irregulars Cluster assault Shiloh.
The assault on Wing sees the first victory for the rebuild Ninth Wolf Guard Cluster as the Second Special Operations Group are shattered in the victory and the Seventy-seventh Special Operations Group are forced off world after taking a beating delivered by the Wolves who wish to prove themselves. Due to the presence of so many special operations operatives on the planet the Wolves deploy several Watch operative teams and heavy infantry support units to the world to hunt down any survivors. As soon as the garrison forces arrive on planet the Ninth move on from the world heading for their next target.
Combat Air Patrol
Keystone, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
7th April 3115
In the last year Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron had flown several aircraft as he recovered from his injuries, he received on Vestallas but today he was back in a Huscarl OmniFighter flying in active duty for the Northwind Renegades. During his time recuperating he had been promoted to Captain having shown an aptitude for the administration side of his duties as well as having the combat experience with his new rank he had a lot more responsibilities but they didn’t get in the way of his first love of flying an aerospace fighter.
His assignment to the Northwind Renegades had come as a surprise. The unit still held much of its traditions from when it was a mercenary command and still only rarely took on recruits from anywhere but the academies on Northwind or from those that shared blood with previous Highlanders. When he arrived however Colonel Jeremiah Rose had made it quite clear that the Renegades didn’t hold as closely to those traditions as closely other units and that if he did his duty then he’d have no problems within his command. A month in and so far, Rose was being proven right and Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron had begun to feel at home within the unit.
Today he was overseeing an SLDF operation supporting the construction of defences on Keystone and below them two Maruhanabachi Carrier Airships and several Tonbo and Bishop VTOLs were working to support the ground troops in their construction efforts. Kincaid-Cameron turned his fighter to the right circling over the efforts below overseeing the work, today wasn’t a combat assignment just security and as a way of fitting in he was happy to take it.
“BREAK, BREAK, BREAK, CAP we’ve got an issue down here!” Suddenly the message broke Kincaid-Cameron’s thoughts.
“This is CAP, go ahead.”
“We’ve got a theft of a lance of StrongArm ConstructionMechs by a group of criminals. Ground support cannot intercept them. We need support.”
“Ground control, CAP Talon One, I have a pair of Huscarl fighters up here. We can lay down support but you need to feed us targets or we’re going to make a heluva mess!” He warned tightening his flight’s turn to keep them over the area and releasing the safeties on his weapons.
“Affirmative, Talon One, you have clearance from command to engage. Target lance is heading east through sector six. We’re releasing their IDs now, pursue and eliminate.”
“Understood” Kincaid-Cameron said taking a deep breath, so much for an easy security patrol where the hell were their ground support? “Talon Two, on my wing, you take both targets on right I have left understood?” He asked the other pilot silently acknowledged his orders taking up the targets while the two fighters turned. “Mamma Bear One, Talon One, we’re travelling through your work space have all traffic aware we’ll be coming through at pace.”
“Talon One, Mamma Bear, understood good hunting.” The airship traffic controller acknowledged their move as the two Huscarls dived under the airships the two expert pilots avoiding flying VTOLs which were working in the area as they dived to the ground to track down the four stolen ConstructionMechs. Now flying below one hundred feet they approached the four light ConstructionMechs at pace. In tandem the two fighter pilots engaged with their autocannons and lasers splitting their weapons against the slow-moving targets. Talon Two followed Kincaid-Cameron’s targeting aiming for one of the StrongArms legs each with the ConstrctionMechs moving slow there was no way for them to avoid the fire and the Huscarl’s heavy weapons fire rapidly fell. One laser blast burned through one of the StrongArms legs burning into a nearby building but the collateral damage was light. One of the other IndustrialMechs remained standing for a moment but Kincaid-Cameron added his ten-tube long-range missile launcher into the mix knocking down the Mech.
“Talon One, Mamma Bear, we’ve got four crippled construction Mechs I can see pilots attempting to get away heading off towards building one hundred metres to their east marking location. We are not weaponized to target them send in ground pounders and recovery teams.” He said feeding back to the orbiting Airship.
“Affirmative Talon One, good hunting.” They responded as the two Huscarls began to rise into the air again returning to their patrol a surprise distraction but as Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron levelled his fighter again and continued the patrol.
Counter Attack
Draconis March, Federated Suns
10th April 3115
In an effort to cut the Draconis Combine supply lines the AFFS units near Robinson target Lucerne, Franklin and Betterdorf striking the three worlds that had been captured by the DCMS in their push towards Robinson. Those forces on Robinson attempt to start destroying anything related to the Sandoval or Davion families while fighting the defending AFFS defenders. In the Lucerne system the DCS Meiyo, Kyushu-class Frigate, and its attached LAM Regiment are obliterated trying to resist the FSS Ian Davion with the frigate completely outclassed by the Mercury-class Battleship.
Raid
Arc Royal, Jade Falcon OZ
15th April 3115
Three mercenary commands the Grey Death Legion, the Carlyle Family Guard and the Snord’s Irregulars combine to strike against the Jade Falcon held world of Arc Royal. While all three units together combined number over two combined arms regiments they find two Elite Jade Falcon Clusters and several clusters of cadets on the world as Clan Jade Falcon have begun using the world as a training world.
While the Grey Death Legion and Carlyle Family Guard engage the Eight Falcon Dragoons Cluster the Snord’s Irregulars push the Sixth Falcon Eyrie Cluster out of the former land hold of the Kell Family allowing their scavenger teams access to the site for several hours. Using multiple ConstructionMechs and heavy lift vehicles the Irregulars excavate a large area within the land hold specifically looking in one location eventually finding what they are looking for.
Buried deeply below the ruins of the Kell Family land hold they find a hidden hanger which would have only been known by the Kell Hounds themselves. Inside are dozens of BattleMechs and armoured vehicles dating back to the succession wars. While outclassed on today’s battlefield with refurbishment these Mechs would easily add an entire battalion to a combat force once prepared.
With the Grey Death and Carlyle family Guards as well as elements of the Irregulars hold off the Dragoons and Eyrie troopers the Irregulars evacuate the hidden cache to their DropShips before the three units withdraw to Coventry where the Kell Hounds had been based.
Having used the mercenary raid as a distraction the Kell Hounds themselves had combined with several other mercenary and house units to strike and reclaim the Krevci system for the Lyran Commonwealth. Several weeks later the Kell Hounds pay the three units for their work on attacking Arc Royal, the commander of the Hounds Colonel Jeremy Kell had known if they were the ones to return to Arc Royal they would have stood and either liberated the world or ceased to be so they had hired the other units to assist them. The Hounds took several artifacts from the recovered cache, most being Kell Hound heirlooms while the three other units took a heafty payment and salvage from the fighting back to their staging worlds.
SLDF Deployment
Star League Protectorate
29th April 3115
“Listen Governor please, these Drones are not alive!” Admiral Mark Cavannah stressed to the planetary governor who was angry at the deployment of four M5 Casper Drones to the defence of the system. “The movie Tri-Vids about sentient WarShips defending humanity against Amaris and fighting forces that threaten us, I agree, are fantastic but they are FICTION! It is beyond the capabilities of the original Star League and the current Star League to produce such craft.” He said angrily looking at Planetary Governor Jordain Ariadness of Pacifica, or Chara as the star was known, he was by far one of the youngest Planetary Governors in the Star League Protectorate at thirty-two years he had a full head of blonde hair and blue eyes, if he hadn’t gone into politics Cavannah was sure the Governor would have been a poster boy for advertisement campaigns. Unfortunately, while he was young, he was also a little backward in his thoughts about the drone technology and the Casper WarShips that were being deployed to the system.
“They are still WarShips without crews and without control! My citizens are afraid these things will see them as a threat as the original Caspers turned on their creators. My people hate the idea of them over their heads.” He complained looking at the roof of the building as if it would be possible to see the Caspers through them, which was impossible.
“These WarShips are “Smart" they know how to fly around a star system, they will stop and interrogate IFFs of ships they don't know, but they wont fire on ships that don’t show hostile IDs or are not hostile to them. Instead, they will ask for direction from your office and from the office of the local defence forces.” Admiral Mark Cavannah explained “if your orders or those of the SLDF forces present conflict with their prime directive of defending this system, and defending the Star League Protectorate, they will contact Terra via their onboard HPGs for instruction.” Cavannah explained.
“So, they will not follow my orders if “they” do not agree with them!” He said angrily “these buggering machines will go to Terra over the local orders and threaten Pacifica with Terra’s desires” Ariadness said annoyed at the prospect.
“They will follow your orders as long as they are not contrary to the desires of the SLDF and the well being of the people of Cha… Pacifica” Cavannah said stumbling over the local name for the world. “These Drones will do nothing to harm the people of this system you will not even have to supply them” Cavannah explained “we have deployed several DropShips with spare parts, ammunition and fuel. If something goes wrong with these ships the Caspers will arrange a rendezvous autonomously without need for the people of Pacifica to assist them all of this is funded by Terra and the SLDF.”
“And through our taxes” Araidness pointed out.
“Yes, and through your taxes” Cavannah repeated “Governor, Clan Wolf is getting ever closer to this system. They could jump in at any moment. Now your system will not only be defended by the drones you have the Third Knights of the Sphere Regimental Brigade, two full Guard Regiments, the SLS Markov and SLS Caliburn you are hardly under defended.” He explained Chara actually had one of the heaviest concentrations of SLDF forces after Terra with the addition of the Drone WarShips just adding to this force. “We are dedicated to your defence Governor, the SLDF will not abandon you.”
“We are just one more wall that is between you and Clan Wolf, if we fall, you’ll have others.”
“We will but we will not abandon you to the Clansmen.” Cavannah repeated trying to convince the man, Terra couldn’t afford to lose all its protection to the Wolves not with others closing their grip. “Your system is not the only one to receive upgrades to their defences the systems of Graham and Zavijava will be receiving a similar defence force to your system. The Star League are investing heavily in protection for your systems.”
“While Clan Wolf continue to naw and nibble at the Protectorates borders?” Governor Jordain Ariadness “Pacifica has been on the borders of enemies for many years the Protectorate was supposed to bring stability, instead it feels like we have become a target.”
“A target that fights back Governor, the defences of Pacifica or Chara whatever you want to call yourselves this week, will rival that of Hesperus II, Tharkad and New Avalon. You will have a net above your heads to protect you from the threats that are near us. We will build a metal shield around our worlds and protect the people below them from the threats above.” Cavannah said his voice full of passion “you have nothing to fear from us, the Star League is a home worth supporting and fighting for.”
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I have had a little more time to write recently, it's been great so finally an update!
Planetary Assault
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
3rd May 3115
Standing on the bridge of the FSS Hanse Davion II, Fleet Admiral Jonathan Raikkonen watched as the other WarShips and JumpShips of his fleet jumped into the Alpheratz system; the capital system of the Raven Alliance. After recent attacks which had seen the Raven Alliance secure six systems including the PDZ capital world of Woodbine the Federated Suns had classed the Clan/Periphery nation as a credible threat to the security of their periphery border. The Alpheratz mission was a “Shock-and-Awe” strike designed to make the Ravens understand that striking into the Federated Suns would cost them more than they could afford. Six WarShips, including the Hanse Davion II, and twelve JumpShips carrying two Regimental Combat Teams and four mercenary units had joined in the strike intended on forcing the Ravens to come to the peace table; or at the very least enter into a cease-fire.
Looking at his sensor system readouts Jonathan Raikkonen smirked seeing that the intelligence staff had got things right for once there were only four WarShips in the system… “Only” he quietly said to himself from the Holo-table in the CIC there was a time in the Inner Sphere that seeing ONE WarShip in your entire lifetime would have been a life changing experience. Now in some systems that was still the case but with the numbers of vessels now available in the Inner Sphere it was becoming a far more common experience to see such vessels. “Readouts on the vessels present.” He ordered louder getting the attention of the room as he realized the only the four Recharge Stations that served the system were present at the Nadir and Zenith points and none of them were the targets of this attack.
“The Four Raven WarShips read as One Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser 100% confirmed as the Bontaventure, One Texas-class Battleship 93% confirmed as the Montbatton…”
“Hold report and confirm why the uncertainty?”
“Vessel’s profile does not match what our sensors recognize as a Texas-class vessel she’s been modified either cosmetically or with additional capabilities.” The officer reported from his station “sir, our readings on the two Aegis-class vessels also read as 93% confirmed they have also been modified from the base design.”
“The Star League had several variations of the same WarShip in operation some of them look nothing like another vessel of the same class could our sensors be thrown off by what they are looking at?” Raikkonen asked exploring options he’d flown in starships nearly his whole sixty-two years since his parents fled the Clan invasion of their native Free Rasalhague Republic and set up in the Federated Suns as crewmen onboard a trader JumpShip. He’d been born in space just within the Federated Suns borders and been registered as a citizen as soon as his parents had landed on Addicks officially that planet served as his homeworld even though he’d spend less than a year on its surface in reality he was at home in space.
“Negative Admiral through the Star League we have records of all variations of Star League and Clan ships these variations in the Texas and Aegis class are unknown.”
“Understood, ladies and gentlemen I call for your attention, our duty is to get the ground-pounders onto the planet surface to do their work. We will respect Clan dueling rules if they are willing to once, we are in communication range the Hanse Davion II will challenge the Montbatton regardless of what the Clans have done to her. The Melissa Davion II will challenge one of the Aegis and the Jennifer Davion will challenge the other leaving the Jackson Davion to challenge the Potemkin should it be looking to join the battle.” He explained the Jackson Davion would be heavily outgunned by the Potemkin should it be carrying a full set of DropShips however Raikonnen didn’t think the vessel would be used in this battle he’d make it clear that the Federated Suns were not here to claim the vessel in his challenge he wanted to rule it out of the battle quick. “Our remaining WarShips will engage any aerospace defences around Alpheratz should the Ravens refuse Safcon, which we expect they will, our objective is not to cleanse life on Alpheratz our objective is to secure control over a settlement or a factory which will bring the Ravens to the negotiations table with the Federated Suns and end the conflict between our nations. Understood?”
“Yes, sir!” Came a resounding response from the crewmen in the system.
“Very well bring us into the system” he ordered across the fleet vessels began to accelerate away from the JumpShips at the Nadir point.
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Five days later the Federated Suns fleet entered into the range of the defenders communications and Fleet Admiral Jonathan Raikonnen made his challenge. “I am Fleet Admiral Jonathan Raikonnen the commander of the Federated Suns Fifth Fleet and of the WarShip FSS Hanse Davion II. My vessel carries a proud name and stands to defend its nation I challenge another vessel with a proud name Clan Snow Ravens Montbatton to combat. This is a solitary challenge to be resolved between myself as commander of the Hanse Davion II and the commander of the Montbatton my vessel against theirs let no other vessel enter.” As he spoke the commanders of the Melissa Davion II and the Jennifer Davion issued their own challenges against the Lord Death and the White Terror these challenges were to be worded in a very particular way to get the attention of the Snow Ravens and for now to include nothing else.
“Response from Raven vessels are coming in, it’s the commander of the Montbatton.”
“Put them on.”
“Fleet Admiral Raikonnen, welcome to the Alpheratz system, before we accept your challenge, we must know your purpose for being in this system?” Came the response after the delay in transmission.
“We wish to end the conflict between the Raven Alliance and Federated Suns through honourable combat. I have brought the additional WarShips for security and to allow the crews of your additional vessels to gain honour through battle. Our ground forces will offer those troops you have on the ground that same honour with the understanding that we have no wish of conquest of your world, we bring no plans with us of conquest only to bring an end to the war between our nations as two martial nations should end a conflict.” He offered giving the Ravens the words they needed he’d have preferred if they could show some force and speak with their enemies ending the conflict with worlds of peace but he knew that the Clansmen would need a battle to keep their warrior caste happy.
After several minutes a response came through the CIC’s speakers “This is Star Admiral Rayford McCorkell the commander of the Montbatton. I accept the challenge from with Fleet Admiral Jonathan Raikonnen of the FSS Hanse Davion II with conditions.” Onboard the Hanse Davion II Raikonnen glanced at his XO who nodded ready to note down what the Ravens were about to say “the Lord Death and White Terror are bound by these same conditions” McCorkell continued “firstly the Bontaventure is not included in the bid for this system if any ship enters within one hundred kilometres of that vessel then Zellbrigen will be classed as being broken and additional Snow Raven forces will join the battle.” He said to himself Raikonnen nodded understanding and seeing that the Bontaventure was far outwith the engagement zone anyway. “Second, ground forces are to land on the northern continent where they will engage Raven Alliance forces.” He said continuing “third should any vessel signal its surrender during battle the opposing side is to accept that decision and not pursue the total destruction of their enemy.”
“I accept your terms and wish to request Safcon for my forces landing at the Northern Continent” Raikonnen asked knowing full well what the answer would be.
“Negative, to grant Safcon would mean the fighter pilots on the ground would miss out on the honour of engaging your forces. Safcon will not be granted from any trial and should your WarShips approach Alpheratz they will be subject to Trials by aerospace defenders.”
“Well bargained and done” Raikonnen said ending the Clan Ritual showing them this respect would hopefully go a long way to helping cement any decision that came from it.
“Well bargained and done”
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Nine hours later the Hanse Davion II entered weapons range with the Montbatton and found their first surprise of the battle as four Kraken Telescopic Capital Missiles slammed into the Hanse Davion II’s hull the assault surprising and overwhelming the Battleship’s impressive anti-missile systems. Within moments the FSS Jennifer Davion and FSS Melissa Davion II reported similar strikes as the Ravens revealed that they had copied the Inner Sphere invention and were now deploying them on their WarShips as well.
“So, the Ravens have kitted their ships out with some surprises.” He said looking at the damage caused fortunately there wasn’t any obvious penetration of the hull. Raikonnen cursed normally they would’t waste time with screen launchers until they’d seen the missiles fired but the Kraken’s had been fired before they even entered range and been controlled all the way to target. “Time for us to respond in kind, return fire as we enter range, deploy screens and move us in on them.” Raikonnen ordered as they closed on the Snow Raven Battleship. The Montbatton was designed to engage a target at range with a range of naval particle cannons, lasers and naval missiles its greatest weakness was its lack of directly forward-facing weapons and lack of missile defences. While the First Prince Block II was also designed to engage at range with a host of Naval-class gauss rifles, lasers and missiles to throw back at the Clan vessel while also having a ring of screen launchers and anti-missile defences. It was a slugging match which the newer designed First Prince-class should come out ahead of with its modern defences but after seeing the use of Kraken missiles by the Ravens Raikonnen was taking nothing for granted.
“Sir, naval missiles ineffective!” The weapons station reported as the missiles reached their target the missiles had been fired probably at the same time as the Krakens had been fired but unlike the attack on the Federated Suns WarShip the missiles targeted on the Montbatton had failed to reach target. “They have deployed screens and are employing anti-missile defences!” He said looking over at the Admiral again as further Raven Krakens bore through the Hanse Davion II’s defences and slammed into its armoured hull. With defences now active the attack was far less effective than before but it still wore into the vessel’s hull.
“Bring us onto their port flank, we’re going to have to close on them, use our capital missiles to support the DropShips and fighters they should have more.”
“Affirmative, Fleet Admiral” the officers replied as the ships range decreased the Hanse Davion II angled towards the Montbatton’s port flank as they closed the Clan vessel turned sharply away from them bringing its broadside of naval lasers to bear on the nose of the Hanse Davion II. The Federated Suns battleship shuddered as the lasers bore into the vessel’s hull coupled with more lasers, autocannons and particle weapons. Between the two vessels a dozen DropShips and over a hundred aerospace fighters engaged each other in close quarters fighting.
“Turn our nose off target, bring autocannons into play!” Raikonnen ordered seeing the armour wear to the front of his vessel. By turning they vessel, they brought their own broadside into play allowing several naval-class autocannons onto target. Raikonnen was glad to see them wearing on the side of the enemy Texas even as the Montbatton continued to strike them. “Sensors, I want a detailed scan of the Montbatton if the Ravens have modified her in any further way I want to know!” He ordered as the the Hanse Davion II rocked heavily from a new impact against the port side.
“Report!”
“Armour breached caused by further Kraken impacts they’ve been targeting the port side with them our defences can’t hold them back!” The Damage Control Officer (DCO) reported the Kraken was a special type of missile due to the Telescopic cameras which allowed the missile to be “piloted” by the gunners controlling it the Ravens had been coordinating their strikes targeting one section of the Hanse Davion II. The missiles themselves were heavily armoured and designed to penetrate an enemy vessels defences and armour.
“Air boss, we need the aerospace squadrons to assist in missile defence, we can’t afford to keep taking hits like that!”
“Sir, all squadrons are fully engaged turning them off target now will cause losses!” The man protested
“I know, but we’re going to lose this ship if they don’t!” Raikonnen snapped “it’s a sacrifice but it’s one we need, give the damned order!” He commanded turning to the helm station “give us a nose-broadside swing I want to hit them with our forward armament then turn back on them again! Our armour can take it.” As the ship began to turn aerospace fighters and DropShips continued to fight and die around the two ships they were like bugs beside a grand anima.
“We’re going to take a pounding” the helm officer commented but didn’t argue as he begun to swing the WarShip around onto it’s starboard side. Naval lasers and particle cannons from the Montbatton tore into the WarShips flank and nose further damaging the Hanse Davion II’s armour. The Federated Suns Battleship responded in kind with a volley of naval-class gauss rifles all while continuing the bombardment of naval autocannons and lasers. As the Hanse Davion II turned back to display its broadside the Montbatton also shifted position sending a volley of heavy naval autocannon into the Battleship while further Kraken missiles slammed into its damaged port flank.
“Port Autocannons offline! Port links to engineering down! Hull breach four decks! We’re losing atmosphere! Emergency protocols activated! Our armour is gone.” The DCO shouted a warning the deployment of fighters and DropShips hadn’t been enough.
Raikonnen breathed heavily as the ship rocked again under bombardment. “Communications Officer, signal the Montbatton, the Hanse Davion II is willing to stand down.” He announced looking around the CIC “We are not surrendering to them this ship can still fight if they want to take us to destruction!” He said defiantly “but this battle will not be determined up here, it will be determined by the boys and girls we have successfully escorted to the planet.” He said looking at the sensor screens seeing DropShips carrying their ground forces enter the planet’s atmosphere of the WarShips that had escorted those ships it appeared the FSS Killing Blow had been crippled with its crew abandoning ship from what Raikonnen could make out the four hundred-and-twenty thousand tonne ship did not have the velocity to maintain orbit over Alpheratz; at least the Ravens had allowed the crew to abandon ship safely.
Launch site
Northern Continent/North Country, Alpheratz
Raven Alliance
9th May 3115
“Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen I’m Shakeel Hussein, of the Alpheratz New Freedom Journey, for the last six days and nights Alpheratz has been under attack by forces of the Federated Suns.” The dark-skinned man in his forties said over the launch of a red-and-black coloured DropShip behind them his greying hair highlighted by the flare from the DropShip’s engines. “What started with a naval battle just outside orbit continued below on our planets surface. But this, this was like no battle our people have faced before.” He said “the Federated Suns forces came here to fight an ‘honour battle’ against the forces of the Raven Alliance. In a battle which was more like a large duel than a battle of conquest the Federated Suns forces and those fighting for our nation engaged in fifteen battles across the North Country. Each of these individual battles had very distinct victory conditions with both sides meeting before the battles and agreeing what factors would lead to a victory. In all the conflicts that I have witnessed in my time as a new correspondent this was perhaps the most ‘civilized’ with not a single civilian casualty in any of the battles.” He explained as a second red-and-black DropShip this one clearly displaying the insignia of the Federated Suns took off. “This was not to say that this was a bloodless battle hundreds of brave men and women have given their lives for the Raven Alliance and for the Federated Suns during these battles. The WarShips FSS Killing Blow, FSS Jennifer Davion and our own White Terror were all destroyed in the naval battle above while in the fifteen battles on the ground more than two Federated Suns Regimental Combat Teams fought against our brave volunteers and Snow Raven warriors. In the end the commander of the Federated Suns force Marshal Max Riemelt led his forces to six victories against our defenders while the remaining nine battles went to our defenders.” Shakeel Hussein explained “while this has netted the Federated Suns a production run Deimos OmniMechs for their efforts, the Raven Alliance victories have secured Alpheratz and the gains made during the recent conflict with the Federated Suns.” Hussein explained as another explosion occurred behind him this wasn’t unexpected as a huge Conquistador-class DropShip shot along the ground and took off heading towards orbit. Hussein was silent as the roar of the DropShip’s huge engines carried it into the upper atmosphere.
“Now the Federated Suns leaves the Raven Alliance in peace. In the days of the Succession Wars a nation state would fight until it was exhausted but now in the time of the Clans a battle for honour leads to the end of this wasteful conflict between our nations. The Federated Suns has lost the battle for Alpheratz and it has lost the war with the Snow Ravens but both sides have agreed that there will be no further conflict between us.” Hussein said as a group of ten Raven Alliance aerospace fighters flew over the camera “at least now. I am Shakeel Hussein, of the Alpheratz New Freedom Journey, reporting live on the 9th May 3115.”
Trials of Possession
Rasalhague Dominion/Coyote OZ
Occupation Zone
11th May 3115
In a series of Trials of Possession several worlds are exchanged between the Rasalhague Dominion and Clan Coyote. Both sides restrict themselves to honour trials of no more than a Cluster engaging the other Clan in the battles. In all the Coyotes come out on top over six trials adding four systems Mozirje, Feltre, Basiliano and Thannhausen to their occupation zone while the Rasalhague Dominion seize control over Carse and Glauzzo from the Coyotes. In these battles the ground fighting is seen as little more than training for the Clusters involved with no collateral damage taken by any of the forces involved.
Nuclear Incident
Sudeten City, Sudeten
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
19th May 3115
A nuclear explosion envelops Sudeten City, the official capital of the Clan Jade Falcon Occupation Zone, the casualties are massive but less than they would have once been as the Jade Falcons had spent the last ten years all but abandoning the city and Sudeten itself. For decades the Jade Falcons had been giving up parts of their occupation zone to forward their goals deeper in the Inner Sphere and Sudeten had been strip mined by the Falcons for all of its worth. During that period of time only a single garrison cluster had been based on the world while all other scientists and leadership had moved elsewhere in the OZ.
The Jade Falcon Watch begin a short and an immediate investigation into the explosion but for all intensive purposes the Falcons abandon Sudeten once and for all soon afterwards allowing the Hell’s Horses to take control over the radiated planet. Within days of the Hell’s Horses take over they command all survivors from Sudeten City to abandon the grounds of the city and move elsewhere on the planet naming Sudeten City as a no-go zone for the population of the planet. A Hell’s Horses investigation suggest that the explosion could have been caused by an undermaintained Jade Falcon reactor which may or may not have been tampered with by unknown persons.
Resource Raids
Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
22nd May 3115
In a series of raids McCoy’s Malcontents pirate band raid several systems of the Magistracy of Canopus striking at Kleinwelt, Thraxa and Vixen taking salvage from all three systems as they continue to try and rebuild the Mechs that are stored on Whittington. In each of the battles Amanda Cavalcanti is allowed by Schuyler McCoy to join the unit in battle in her restored Griffin GRF-1A despite being someone who had been coopted into the unit she fights for the unit and does not attempt to leave the pirate band. From the resources taken in the Magistracy the Malcontents’ techs restore a Koschei and an Icarus II BattleMech to operational status adding them to the defences of Whittington.
Trial of Possession
Savonburg, Draconis March
Federated Suns
28th May 3115
After recent victories by the Nova Cats claiming the systems Kiza, Rentz, McRae, Rosiclaire and Vandalia and Federated Suns counter attacks which claimed Hortense Hogdell and Jessup the Nova Cats and Federated Suns agree to end the current conflict between them on a world not touched by the recent combat. On the world of Savonburg Khan Canin Rosse meets with Field Marshal Paul Bowmen of the Federated Suns Crucis March.
With a simple Trial of Possession fought over by the Delta Keshik and Bowman’s own First Tikonov Cossacks RCT the “war” comes to an end between the two nations with the Federated Suns force victorious ending the conflict between them. The fighting has told both sides several things the Federated Suns has realized that it is not the nation that can fight on multiple fronts and they have now seen the Nova Cats as a threat. While many within the Federated Suns desired to see the Nova Cats kicked back into their Den the nation has been battered on all fronts and needs time to regain its strength. While the High Command of the Federated Suns is confident of a victory against the Nova Cats over the long term the wars with the Raven Alliance and Draconis Combine have sapped the AFFS strength and desire for battle. The Nova Cats could wait until their next conflict.
The Nova Cats have secured what they wished to in the production world of Crofton and gained retribution for the attack by Tyler’s Terribles against their nation overall they have lost control over several systems and have lost a lot of bloodied troops but they have also gained valuable experience. Internally within the Clan they have also realized that they need to deploy bigger formations of ground troops and bigger WarShips to counter those of the Federated Suns. During the battle for Savonburg the Nova Cats deploy clan-tech versions of the Gallant and Thanatos BattleMechs in battle both already produced on Crofton showing the worth of the world to the Clan.
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Good update DC.
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Good update DC.
Thanks I forgot to mention here but I will as its due. The Raven/Suns conflict originated with forum member Vition2. I wrote it based off notes we came up with together. Originally the plan was a bit bigger but I scaled it back as I did it solo
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Very nice!
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Base camp, Eagle’s Talons
Las Halles, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
8th June 3115
Dropping into the atmosphere the four purple, red, blue and white painted Screamer Land Air Mechs descended quickly through the snow storm brewing above the surface. Eldest daughter of the ruling family on Oriente Duchess Sophie Halas led the flight of craft towards the ground. The four craft were specifically painted to look good from the ground with the paintwork intricate lines which spread from the nose of the aircraft down to the tail. However, once they converted into their AirMech or BattleMech configurations the paintwork would be at different angles which it was thought would break up the look of the Mechs on visual identification and give the MechWarriors an advantage over range.
High over the base camp of her new unit the Eagle’s Talons Special Operations Unit the craft banked into a tightening circle as they descended on fusion fire. The fifty-five-ton LAM was the largest of all built Land-Air-Mechs and while slower than smaller LAMs they were better armoured and they were well armed with a pair of extended-range lasers and two five-tube Multi-Missile Launchers. In a fight with a dedicated BattleMech or aerospace fighter of the same eight they would be outmatched but neither of those dedicated platforms could come near to matching the others capabilities.
“Eagle One to Talon Base, requesting permission for Eagle Flight to land on main tarmac.” She transmitted as they approached the ground base.
“Permission granted” the tower replied with a well practiced calm the four craft were expected arrivals at the base. Constructed during the period of time that the First Kathil Uhlans were briefly based on the planet there were several hangers which would house a unit’s vehicles, BattleMechs and Aerospace units. These were constructed away from each other in an effort to soften the blow should an enemy bomb the base blindly. There were half a dozen other buildings constructed across the base which had the command, briefing, accommodation, training and maintenance facilities. A single control tower had been built near the long runway which ran between the various facilities.
“Understood Eagle Flight proceeding to landing.” She said as they approached the base the four craft began the conversion process from aerospace fighter to BattleMech a couple of hundred metres from the ground. Being onboard the craft as the automated process began was a strange sensation for a pilot, even someone who was used to the process like Sophie Halas. First the velocity began to slow dramatically as the engines ceased their forward thrust turning more velocity to verticle power holding the craft aloft with brute force instead of aerodynamics. The rear of the craft broke into two halves with various parts of the legs beginning to form as they did the wings of the craft broke in half with the other halves of the two wings turning downwards beginning to form the Mech’s forearms. Finally, the cockpit sections of the aircraft bent forwards giving the AirMech its final hunched appearance additional thrusters at the rear of the craft kept the forward momentum while ground facing jets kept them aloft.
During the conversion process a pilot was most at risk with less control over the defence of their craft and more concentration being placed on the craft’s heading and stability. Any attack during the conversion process could prove fatal to a Land-Air-Mech with damage causing a failure in the craft or a crash either of which could kill the pilot. Today there were no such threats however as Sophie authorized the onboard computer to continue the conversion process with the back of the LAM straightening above the extended legs, the remaining flat surfaces of the wings moving backwards onto the back of the BattleMech’s arms and shoulders as the arms fully extended. The nose flipped under the cockpit of the Land-AirMech as the cockpit itself moved forwards away from the back of the craft and turned into the vertical configuration of a BattleMech finally settling in position with an audible “clunk” together the four BattleMech configured LAMs.
In formation then walked towards one of the hangers with a “follow-me” civilian truck turning onto the road in front of them guiding them towards their berthing facility joining their comrades in the Eagle’s Talons newly formed Land-Air-Mech Battalion. “Welcome to Eagle’s Talons, Eagle Flight.” The tower said finally as they entered the hanger.
Border Raid
Main Street, Stone Spirit Territory
Periphery
11th June 3115
During an invasion of the Main Street system the First and Sixth Stone Clusters of the Stone Spirit forces supported by the General Stuart, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, the Stone Spirits invade the system taking control of it from the First BattleMech Regiment of the Obsidian Lancers Brigade. As an opener to the battle the Stone Spirits intentionally jump one of their Invader-class JumpShips into one of the JumpShips based at the main jump point obliterating both vessels in a spectacular explosion.
Fighting for their lives the Obsidian Lancers successfully kill Eli Furey the leader of the Stone Spirits gaining themselves a lull in the charge by the invaders. The remaining Obsidian Lancers withdraw from the system meeting with a recently arrivied Obsidian Lancers JumpShip which had arrived from the Elume system.
With their leader dead there is an end to the immediate fighting between the former Clan force and the Lyran Commonwealth as a new leader is elected. Unlike the Clans the force instead elects a new leader with fomer Star Colonel Tanya Furey becoming the new Commander of the Stone Spirits.
Promotion Ceremony, Thunder Complex
Bowang City, Bowang
District of Bowang, Free Worlds League
14th June 3115
The Promotion Ceremony more resembled a wedding than a military procedure as music played in the Grand Hall at the Thunder Complex. Situated in the centre of their multi acre estate on Bowang the Thunder Complex was the base of operations for the mercenary command the Thunder Road which had been contracted to the District of Bowang for several years. During this time, they had expanded their facilities to better incorporate their unit’s needs and bring up its standards in living, training and care. In recent months John Wrangler had overseen the opening of a new school facility which trained future members of the mercenary command and welcomed in local members who wished to learn more about military life as well as regular studies. Those natives who graduated from the Wangler Training College could become members of the unit or return to civilian life with training certificates which would be recognized by the world of Bowang thanks to agreements in training which the Thunder Road had agreed with the government.
The Grand Hall itself was situated near the command building of the base and was the unit’s primary meeting chamber for ceremonies and unit briefings. Inside the Grand Hall every member of the Thunder Road Mercenary Command and several members of their allies the Chaos Irregulars were present in their best uniform of clothing to watch as Lt Colonel Naomi Renee Wrangler took command of the Thunder Road from her father John Wrangler.
The Grand Hall was built like the Lyran Commonwealth’s throne room and it was large enough for a BattleMech to stand inside. Today there were two BattleMech’s present John Wangler’s one-hundred-ton Thunder Hawk on the left in front of the gathered crowd and Naomi Renee Wangler’s Black Watch OmniMech beside it. Colonel John Wangler stood in front of his Thunder Hawk he was nearly ninety years old and had finally decided that today was the day for his retirement, while he still piloted his Thunder Hawk on occasion in practice, he hadn’t engaged in actual combat with it for several years instead concentrating on assisting with training at the Thunder Complex.
As tradition of the ceremony demanded Naomi stopped in front of her Black Watch as her father waited for her in front of his Thunder Hawk her blond hair tied back over behind her grey uniform as was tradition for the unit the jacket of the uniform which was open, showing a simple white shirt underneath, had animal fur had been sowed into the left shoulder and this extended down the arm of the jacket running through the elbow and to the wrist cuff. “Lt Colonel Naomi Wrangler reporting as commanded.” She announced standing at attention.
“Naomi Wrangler, you stand in front of the Thunder Road” her father began as he spoke the entire unit stamped their feet which in the words of the unit “brought the thunder” to the room. “You are entrusted with their command; how do you answer?”
“I am ready to walk the Road and bring the Thunder.” She said reciting the words each person spoke as they accepted a promotion. As she spoke the words the unit responded in stamping their feet making more noise that echoed in the chamber.
“How say you Thunder Road, can she lead you?” John Wangler asked turning to the gathered group.
“Hail!” They shouted united accepting her leadership the old man smiled broadly knowing their answer before they spoke, she had led them in combat several times and each trusted her judgement.
“Colonel Naomi Renee Wrangler, The Thunder Road are yours to command.” He said his eyes watering in pride as he stepped back away from her.
“It will be my honour” she said to her father as the unit stamped their feet again as she turned towards the unit as the noise quietened. “I am proud to serve with all of you and I am proud to take command of this unit here today within the Thunder Complex.” She said as the crowd again on que stamped their feet. “I am also glad to have our allies the Chaos Irregulars present.” She said acknowledging the presence of Lt Colonel Jocoam Chowla and Lt Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson who represented the unit. “And today I am announcing a new expansion to our unit’s chorus.” She said making her deal public for the first time, so far only her father and select advisors had known about the changes that were about to fill the unit. “Lt Colonel Chowla and Lt Colonel Peregrine-Simpson please.” She said welcoming them up beside her both of them wore their best clothing with the Chaos Irregulars command. “Call your troops in.” She ordered Jake Chowla clicked his hand-held radio twice and the doors on either side of the chamber which were used to get her the two BattleMechs inside slowly swung open.
From either side of the room the two battalions of Chaos Irregulars entered the room the troops all wore their best civilian gear and after they were all present Naomi stepped clear of them in front of both units. “We have fought with the Chaos Irregulars on several battlefields. Their unit has been through a lot, as have the Thunder Road.” She said as there was another rumble from stamping feet, this one smaller than before as the crowd reacted with surprise at the presence of the Chaos Irregulars.
Jake Chowla stepped forwards from the Chaos Irregulars beside Naomi to address the surprised command “your commander said The Thunder Road!” He roared looking at the command and his own people in a sweeping motion this time both the original Thunder Road and several members of the Chaos Irregulars stamped their feet together in a combination of habit and surprise at the interruption. Naomi acknowledged his action with a nod of thanks Jake Chowla was at times impulsive and this appeared to be one of those moments, he’d come a long way since the death of his wife fighting the Whispers of Blake. There was times when he struggled with it, this she knew this both he and Ariel had made clear when they first discussed today’s meeting and it was something that Naomi had agreed to help him deal with in the future.
“Today I am announcing that the Chaos Irregulars are formally joining the ranks of the Thunder Road.” She said this time her words brought almost stunned silence “their unit has been through a lot in the last few years and combined we will be able to forge forward along a new Road together!” She announced this time there was no thunder but instead an immediate applause and cheers as both the Thunder Road and former Chaos Irregulars realized that Jake Chowla’s interruption had been one to make them realize who they were. That this was a merger of commands the old ways were not going away instead they were being enhanced by their new combined numbers which would give the Thunder Road more than a regiment of BattleMechs and two combined arms support battalions.
Terrorist Incident
Ferihegy, Kaumberg Theatre
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
28th June 3115
Following the announcement of the death of Lindon Ashley, a former leader of the Democracy Now movement in the Lyran Commonwealth, who was in prison on Kaumberg. The movement announce their responsibility for an attack on Ferihegy shattering one of the sealed Arcology settlements on the world. In the Ferihegy Primus settlement more than five thousand people perish in the explosion which causes damage to the dome protecting the population and from subsequent nitrogen-cyanide poisioning as Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces attempt to help them. Democracy Now warn that they will continue to target Lyran facilities until the Commonwealth accept that democracy not the feudal rule of the Steiner family is the better route for the Lyran people.
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Time for July and time to move things on a bit. For anyone who took interest before in my Solaris Racing League post the first part of this story has been told before but I've cleaned it up a little. For the original championship the story is on the following link. The rest of it will be added into the main story with little changes here and there.
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-fiction/solaris-racing-league-alternate-timeline-with-thanks/msg1598454/#msg1598454 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-fiction/solaris-racing-league-alternate-timeline-with-thanks/msg1598454/#msg1598454)
Solaris Racing Event
San Bardo Canyon, Equatus
Solaris VII, Independent Clan Territory
7th July 3115
On a sunny day on the world of Solaris VII a Lexan Oceanic Series Luxury VTOL flew high above the San Bardo Canyon on the mountainous Equatus continent far to the east of Solaris City. The area had long been used as a training ground by MechWarriors preparing themselves for the hardships they would encounter in Solaris’ famous Arenas while more recently Equatus had become home to a large number of the Clan Wolf population who were based on the world. Today, however the canyon was going to be used for an entirely new event intent on bringing in new audiences from Solaris and across the Inner Sphere. From the rear cabin of the aircraft announcer Rick De Graff stood in front of the Tri-vid camera wearing his customary navy suit and multi-coloured bow tie waiting for the broadcast to begin. The Lexan was designed for long distance travel and had a fully kitted out set of luxury passenger quarters normally allowing the passengers to travel in complete comfort, but today the comforts had been pushed to the side or completely replaced with tri-vid cameras and six crewmen from the Solaris Entertainment Company. The red light behind the camera turned to green and the broadcast began.
“Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen my name is Rick De Graff and for the last thirty years I have commentated on the various competitions that have taken place here on Solaris VII.” He said beginning the broadcast in his customary manner. He’d spoken to the people of Solaris for three decades and he “knew” what they liked. Newer broadcasters had constantly tried to get him to change his style but De Graff was set in his ways and had no plans in changing. “I stayed on with the Leagues when the Clans came to Solaris and have seen them go from strength to strength, even though the Clan culture is completely at odds with the life of Solaris they understand the need for a good fight.” He said pausing few of the “natives” on Solaris liked the new Clan populations that had augmented their population but they all understood that the Clans simply had more firepower than anyone else around them and could hold the world in a far stronger grip than they currently did if they wished.
“But now, today we have the debut of a new organised competition on Solaris based out of the San Bardo Canyon here in sunny Equatus, I bring you the Solaris Racing League! Gone are the days of two pilots racing to show who has the fastest aircraft in a straight line and gone are the guns!" He said drawing another difference between the SRL and other racing competitions on Solaris. "Now they need skill and they need the crowds to win in a competition fully supported and sponsored by the Solaris Entertainment Company and TD Investments.” He announced as two conventional aircraft flew past the Lexan rocking it slightly with the wind caused by their passing external cameras on the aircraft cut from De Graff to show the two multi-coloured aircraft banking away and towards the canyon. “Featuring conventional aircraft of various sizes and capabilities the Racing League will be almost unique on Solaris in that we won’t be using weapons on any of the aircraft taking part.” He said pausing for a moment wondering just how the population would take to a competition with no weapons fire? It wasn’t the only competition on the world that didn’t use weapons conventional vehicle stock car racing still consisted of drivers racing without weapons but those kinds of races saw the vehicles themselves used as weapons in almost every race. “Each craft will be expected to carry these weapons or appropriate weights to represent them and to ensure that the race judges and ourselves are kept in contact with all craft each has been fitted with a Slave C3 system allowing us to take data directly from the aircraft and from specially fitted video cameras on each aircraft.” He said as the camera again cut from De Graff now switching to a camera fitted onto one of the two aircraft which had flown past the Lexan previously. Now the two aircraft were down in the canyon below flying in close formation as low as they dared with one aircraft slightly further ahead of the camera carrying aircraft. The two craft changed direction several times as the canyon terrain changed before switching to a wire frame image of the aircraft showing the stress being put on the aircraft.
“We’ll also all be able to follow the action from camera crews situated around the course and from drone craft positioned waiting for the competitors.” He said finally as the camera switched back to De Graff in the flying studio. Beside him in the studio images showed camera equipment that had been set up around the canyon as perfectly timed shots of the formation flying races flew past. The two racers then flew past a hovering VTOL covered in cameras which was also monitoring them.
“The rules are simple the winning aircraft will be the one with the fastest time through San Bardo Canyon, each aircraft will also gain points for completing each challenge while remaining under one and fifty hundred metres, anytime spent above this height will result in point deductions, these points will be result in subtractions or additions to the finish times at the end of the race. “Any aircraft that leaves the canyon will be disqualified.” He explained
“Now let’s see the course!” He said and Rick De Graff’s image was replaced by images taken from one of the racing turbine powered aircraft as De Graff narrated. “Initially the flight will involve a forward dash through the firebreak between the Redwood and Riverbank Forests.” He said as the aircraft began to fly through the trees with greens, browns and oranges flashing past the wings of the aircraft as it flew. “Our competitors will then raise up the right-hand side of the canyon walls staying as low as they can before entering a natural formation known as Hamilton Tunnel.” He said as the small aircraft entered the tunnel. Now natural light was replaced with artificial light as the aircraft changed direction inside the man-made tunnel. “The pilots will navigate in a tight downward spiral through the tunnel avoiding any obstacles and keeping their speed up” he said as the pilot avoided several rock formations inside the tunnel and then dodged between two sets of containers” before they exit and sprint past the northern edge of Riverbank Forest.” He said as the light changed again and the aircraft was illuminated from above by natural light. Camera images changed showing the aircraft flying above them though the daylight air above the canyon floor the cameras panned to show the aircraft now flying over water and De Graff continued his commentary.
“After crossing over Forss Water the competitors will then fly up over the Solaris Steps where we’ll have spectators camped out waiting for them.” The camera then cut to people already camping out on the natural stone Solaris Steps which were bathed in sunlight “those people are in for a treat.” De Graff said as the image shifted to the aircraft which flew from the tunnel over the choppy river then up over the stone steps missing the crowds by several hundred feet as the crowds cheered. “They’ll climb to one hundred metres and dart through the Loch Gateway” he said as the aircraft flew through a stone archway which faced onto the open water below. “They’ll then fly over Loch Scramclate banking to the left around Grant Island where we’ve got more people waiting for them” again the camera showed crowds gathering this time on beach-built bandstands. “Each aircraft will be expected to do the pilots own chosen signature move in front of the crowds at Grant Island with bonus points voted by you being awarded to each pilot after the race is complete.” He said as the racing aircraft did a simple barrel roll over the crowds below. “These points will go towards each pilot’s own personal ranking score which will count towards their season points. After their excursion over the waters of Loch Scramclate they will fly through the firebreak of Sibster Forest before climbing to the final area of the competition.” He said as the small craft flew between the trees of the forest again the various colours of the trees flashed past the wings of the aircraft before raising into TD Investments Stadium an artificially flattened area in the Canyon Wall which had multiple built up bandstands waiting “In TD Investments Stadium, along with you at home, we have 7,500 people waiting for them there each pilot can again preform their signature move and be awarded additional points for their efforts before hitting the finish line.” He said as the aircraft finally through the stadium doing further barrel rolls as it did in front of the waiting crowds.
“Without further waffling from me here comes our first competitor” he said as an HL-15 Hellfish Light Attack Fighter flew into the area. The craft’s wing edge tilt-rotor turbines pulling it through the air while the pilot could be seen in the forward bulbous cockpit the Solaris sun glinting off of the twin tailed rear boom. “Allow me to introduce Koskova Yartseva piloting a Hellfish Light Attack Fighter from Silver in the Free Worlds League, let’s see how he gets on.” The small ten-ton aircraft flew through the trees before diving down into Hamilton Tunnel inside gun cameras from the small aircraft showed just how close the tiny ten-ton aircraft came to the obstacles inside the tunnel. “The small Hellfish is perfect for this type of close quarters flying and is able to avoid everything in the tunnel with ease.” Turning left Yartseva expertly brought the craft down through the tunnel and out the other side then across the water before climbing up over the Solaris Steps tipping his wings ever so slightly as he passed over the heads of the spectators “KEEP your heads down there!” De Graff called out as the spectators cheered at the aircraft passing by the Hellfish didn’t stop it continued on diving through the Loch Gateway and then over Loch Scramclate. “Here come’s Yarseva to our first display area what will he do for the crowds?” Turning towards Grant Island as the aftcraft quickly flew past the crammed spectator stands on the island’s western edge flicking the VSTOL controls Yartseva brought the engine nacelles up into a hover turning his fighter to face the people below as he did causing the aircraft to do a near perfect reverse turn as it moved past the island one hundred metres below. “HA! Using the Hellfish’s VSTOL equipment to pull an entirely unique move in the spectator region. The crowd down there are going to be in for a treat with the rest of the competitors.” He then flicked the engines back into normal flight function and accelerated away from Grant Island banking again to the left towards Sibster Forest. “Here comes Yarseva towards the homestretch and here in TD Investments Stadium!” De Graff said as the crowd below his aircraft went wild in anticipation the cameras showed the small Hellfish flying between the trees then pulling upwards towards the bandstands of TD Investments Stadium. As the small aircraft flew into the stadium area the Hellfish’s engine nacelles again slowly turned pointing upwards bringing a halt to the craft’s forward movement as it did so allowing the craft to turn in a full 360 degrees before finally pointing to the exit of the course. “Well ladies and gentlemen there we have it the end of the first competitors run and a time on the board now everyone knows what to beat. Remember ladies and gentlemen your vote from home can make all the difference for all Solaris Residence you can instant message on the numbers below to cast your vote at the standard calling price. The pilot has done his best job now its up to you to enhance his finishing position.”
Over the course of the next hour eight more competitors flew through the course each piloting their own type of aircraft. Most of the competitors were based on Solaris and had been seen flying in the adhoc events that had taken place on Solaris before but finally it was Jonnie Mjalby from Aubisson in the Rasalhague Dominion piloting an ASF-23 Protector Aircraft that won the first organised league race on Solaris VII.
“Congratulations to Jonnie Mjalby for his victory here at San Bardo Canyon on Solaris VII. I hope you enjoyed that ladies and gentlemen because this debut season is not done, we’ll have another race which will take place in Dunnet Forest on October 22nd. You can click on the link below to find out how you can be a spectator at that event and stay tuned to the Solaris Entertainment Sports IV for an interview with Jonnie Mjalby and some of the other cometitors with me Rick De Graff.”
Trade mission, DCJS Vancouver Sun (Tramp-class JumpShip)
Richmond, The Havens
Periphery
16th July 3115
The Draconis Combine registered trade JumpShip Vancouver Sun jumped into the Richmond system for a standard trade mission arriving in a flash of light at the Zenith point. The Captain of the ship Invar Lofgren floated in the micro-gravity into the small CIC of the vessel as the jumpsail was being unveiled to begin the days long recharging process. Unlike many JumpShips the Tramp-class did not have a cockpit-styled “bridge” but instead had a larger bowl-shaped combat centre similar to that on a WarShip with several stations dotted around the room manned by members of his crew. “Anything to report?” Lofgren asked his bridge crew
“Hai, Captain” Lt. Commander Masao Suzuki said in response unlike a DCMS vessel the Vancouver Sun was not a military vessel and did not follow military ranks, in fact Lofgren refused to use the Japanese ranks of his native Combine in protest for what had happened to his family in the Free Rasalhague Republic. “We are being approached by a group of ten tightly grouped aerospace fighters, they are of Clan design.”
“Clan design?” Lofgren asked aerospace fighters were concerning, he had a few of his own craft onboard this JumpShip for self defence but his pilots were trained to defend agains pirates not Clan bred and trained pilots. “And where did they come from? We are on the wrong side of the border for them to be here.” He demanded answers “extend sensor concentration identify the source of these fighters.” He ordered looking at the sensor data himself he saw they had a few minutes to check the situation.
“Captain Lofgren we are detecting a Carrier-class DropShip at the edge of sensor range. The vessel does not identify as a Rasalhague Dominion vessel, our sensors cannot identify the tag.”
“Understood, communications attempt to raise the aerospace fighters, identify us to them. We are a civilian vessel we have no interest in contesting Richmond if Clan Ghost Bear have decided to take it from the Combine. This is not our fight and we will leave if they let us.” Lofgren said making his decision the Vancouver Suns’ DropShips carried various trade items that the people of Richmond generally bought but if the world was being contested then he wouldn’t be sending his people to the planet today.
“Incoming message!”
“This is Captain Akira Tempest, the commander of the approaching aerospace fighter star, we represent the defence force of Richmond and The Havens. These worlds are claimed by The Havens all threats will be met by our defences. Traders are welcome to our worlds.” The voice responded Lofgren was taken aback he’d never heard of The Havens nation before.
“This is Captain Invar Lofgren of the trade JumpShip Rainbow Sun, forgive me, I have never heard of your nation. My vessel is a trade ship, we carry weapons only to defend ourselves and our cargo and we do not carry weapons of war.” He said watching as the aerospace fighters continued to close.
“The Havens have gained their independence from the Rasalhague Dominion.” Tempest responded “we have freed from the constraints of the Dominion and offered the chance to forge our own future.”
“We are an independent vessel we will not threaten your worlds. My family comes from the Rasalhague worlds, as do many of those on my crew, we now live on this ship. “While I cannot speak to that of the rest of my crew for now, I would be willing to trade with you going forward depending on the terms available.” He said as he watched the aerospace fighters approaching as the sensors updated it showed them turning away from the JumpShip.
“We welcome friendly traders to our nation” Captain Tempest responded “I will allow you to speak with your crew, we will welcome you to Richmond if you decide to continue hostile acts will be dealt with harshly however you are free to leave if you wish.” He said as the aerospace fighters began peeling off heading back towards the Carrier which continued its approach. “Good luck, captain.”
Invar Lofgren watched as the fighters continued to move away as the communications cut off, he looked around his crew wondering how many of them would be willing to take on another challenge in this “new nation” The Havens. He’d wondered for years about taking the Rainbow Sun beyond Combine borders but the DCMS kept them under contract doing work. “Lt Commander Suzuki assemble the crew, if we decide to trade our cargo with Richmond it is unlikely, we will be welcome back in the Combine. These ships are our home but it is a choice that all the crew must agree to.”
“Hai, Captain” Suzuki responded he was proud of his Combine heritage but he was loyal to the ship first hours later the crew of the Rainbow Sun proved that they too were loyal to the ship of the Combine and they chose to trade with Richmond and remain in the Barrens. Both of the JumpShips trade DropShips headed in system leaving the Rainbow Sun to recharge at the jump point with its Leopard CV-class vessel still attached that vessel carried the JumpShips six aerospace fighters and was unsuitable for trade missions. On the planet the traders based onboard their two DropShips are welcomed with open hands and given generous prices. On Richmond they are given contracts to take cargo deeper into the new nation of the Havens which spreads from Richmond to Santander and to Outpost beyond and has eight systems in total.
Within days of the JumpShip Rainbow Sun jumping deeper into the Havens and its disappearance from Combine trackers the DCMS send out search parties into the Havens only to be rebuffed by the nation’s defences. The Rasalhague Dominion then launch attacks against Schuyler, Garstedt, Turtle Bay and Rockland with Star Colonel Ramille Bekka, a Ghost Bear ristar, leading the attack on Turtle Bay announcing to the Combine that the Rasalhague Dominion had released the Havens from their rule, but they would allow the Draconis Combine to counter attack against the nation should it choose to try and conquest as an option but it would not allow the Combine to attack first and take over. This new nation was still heavily linked to the Dominion through trade and unlike many of the other worlds in the area had been provided with the means to provide for their people on their own and encouraged to cooperate with the worlds around them.
Command Council, Stone Spirit City (Forbidden City)
Strabo, Outpost 27
Stone Spirit Space, Periphery
17th July 3115
In the heart of what had once been a Rim Worlds Republic training ground based on the First Star League-era Forbidden City laid the Stone Spirit Command Council Building. It is an imposing structure that had been built on the rubble of dozens of buildings which the Clan force had destroyed when they had arrived on the world and chosen to make this city their new Capitol. While it stood ten stories tall the building looked more like a bunker than a command facility with sloped walls on either side extending several hundred metres in three directions from the summit to the ground. A BattleMech or armoured vehicle could ascend up the side of the building from the ground if it needed to. On the one slopped side the building had a completely flat face with a single massive entrance at the front of the building which was tall enough and wide enough for any BattleMech to walk through. On either side of the entrance were statues the size of a QuadMech both were identical a massive Stone Rhino with droplets of blood engraved across its body.
Walking into the main auditorium Commander Tanya Furey approached her three Galaxy Commanders each of them saluted with standard Star League Defence Force salutes, the Stone Spirits having abandoned the Clan salute when they arrived on Strabo. “Report.”
“Commander, all of our Galaxies are now at full strength. Further production and recruits will go to strengthen these units until you decree, we should raise further Galaxies.” Jasper Osis reported he commanded the Stone Spirit Galaxy and next to Tanya was their most senior commander in both rank and age as he approached sixty-two years old his short hair now long gone leaving only his scarred and well tanned head. Tanya nodded her understanding.
“Galaxy Commander Leroy Church?” She asked the next senior Galaxy Commander who was more than ten years Jasper Osis’ junior and commanded their Rhino Galaxy. Unlike Jasper Osis Leroy Chruch still had some of his youthful looks while his hair was short there was still colour as well as gray while he remained as fit as a person ten years his junior.
“Commander, the disarray of the Fire Mandrills forces continues following the death of Khan Natasha Faraday on Sapienza to a Lyran sniper. We believe Loremaster Jordan Truscott will ascend to command the Clan while efforts by the Mandrills to secure Sapienza continue against the Fesnyng forces based there.” He said describing the Lyrans irregular warfare unit that had been supporting the local militia forces. “Truscott is a former Serpents warrior and before that he served in the Star Adder Clan. He said sharing his disgust for that group that all Stone Spirits felt for the Adders. “We believe that once he has cemented his control over the Fire Mandrills, he will take full control over the Rim Collection.”
“I’m surprised that the Mandrill population hasn’t demanded that for years before now” Tanya Furey commented “it is Clan technology that is propping up the Collection and the only reason they have had any success. Their future is Clan. Please continue Leroy”
“In the confusion Edmine, Brank and Oporto from the Fire Mandrills as per tradition we have taken bondsmen from the Eleventh Rim Regulars, Second Rim Regulars and Third Rim Regulars as well as Isorla. We have reinforced our positions awaiting the Fire Mandrill response. Also, per your orders a JumpShip with all forces we are not claiming is being returned too the Fire Mandrills. With what we have taken from the Fire Mandrills we could potentially raise another Cluster or two of our forces with new recruits bulking it out.”
“Excellent, well done.”
“Galaxy Commander Boques” she said finally looking at the youngest of their Galaxy Commanders Kari Boques was only thirty years old ten years younger than Tanya Furey blonde haired and blue eyed she could have been a model if she hadn’t been born into the Clan life.
“As per your orders the last of our forces have abandoned Port Vail to Clan Sea Fox. They are settling in well. Lushann and Elba in the Lyran Commonwealth have fallen to our forces.” She said giving them her quick short report. Unlike the fighting between the Stone Spirits and the Fire Mandrills there was no need to return the dispossessed defenders of the two Lyran worlds they would instead be left to languish on the worlds under Stone Spirit rule until they proved their worth.
“Unfortunately, I do not carry as good news” she said looking between the three of them “unlike the relations and respect we have faced with the Fire Mandrills and now the Sea Foxes we are being stonewalled by the Clan Council on Tukayyid with our approaches rebuffed.” She explained “we have had better responds from Von Stranges World, the New Oberon Confederation and from the Ragnarok Union but each of them while they serve as trade partners, they will not bring us further into Clan society.”
“Will they ever accept us? We are two Clans made into one. We have because of what we have lost been forced to abandon much of the genetic engineering that they all follow. We may never be accepted into Clan society again.” Jasper Osis said the Stone Spirits simply didn’t have the resources nor the scientific minds to build defences and build up a genetics program.
“Unacceptable” Tanya Furey stated “they accepted the Fire Mandrills when that Clan only held part of the Rim Collection! That Clan was on life support and still they were welcomed back in with open arms!” She said angrily “I will not accept double standards; the Stone Spirits are rightful heirs to the honour of the Blood Spirits and the Stone Rhinos. No, they will accept us back in. But first we will make a mark that they cannot ignore.” She said “firstly, I will send a message to Khan Truscott once he has gained control over the Fire Mandrills and subjected the Collection. I will make it clear to him we will continue what we have started in our recent battles and offer them the honour they deserve as a Clan of Kerensky.” She said gaining nods from the others around her “then we as one Clan will strike at Swartklip and eliminate the Star League Defence Force garrison there, we will destroy the pretenders on that world and we will prove standing in their blood to our brethren we belong.”
Invasion
Gibbs, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
19th July 3115
What had started with news on the invasions of Upona, Westerstead, Callisto V and finally Donegal had quickly been followed with an invasion of Gibbs by Clan Jade Falcon forces. By the sounds of what Captain Aksel Youngblood was hearing the entire remains of the Donegal province excluding Tharkad had been attacked by the Clan in an all-out assault which was sending the Lyrans reeling. The Crescent Hawks had been assigned to protect Gibbs along with Carlton’s Cavaliers a reinforced combined-arms unit and the local militia forces. Gibbs had long been the site of a JumpShip construction yard but companies had been streaming out of the system for months following intelligence that a big Clan push was coming leaving only the skeleton remains of the construction site above the planet.
Now that the Falcons were here the Crescent Hawks needed to escape the all-out assault. Fortunately, no Falcon WarShips were present but that could only last so long. Aksel had already secured them a JumpShip which was waiting in a pre-organized spot ready to evacuate the unit, an additional DropShip captain had also signed on with his own crew to assist in evacuating as many of the people from the planet as they could. Walking from his command tent towards his Shadow Hawk LAM which stood waiting for him his communicator bleeped before he could make it ten steps to his ride. “Youngblood go!” He called back
“Sir, we have a single Ryoken II approaching the base its painted in Clan Wolf colours.”
“Clan Wolf? Are you sure?”
“Confirmed Captain, Clan Mountain Wolf, its just standing beyond the gates. The pilot wants to speak to you.” The guard said Aksel looked at his Mech and wondered what was going on he knew Clan Mountain Wolf had traders on the world, he’d heard they had been working to try and get the shipyard facility transferred to their holdings on Gallery but he didn’t know why they’d want him.
Soon after Aksel arrived at the gates to see the Ryoken II standing there silently waiting for him he found it strange that the seventy-five-ton BattleMech was so silent when the entire world around them was fighting. “I am Aksel Youngblood, commander of the Crescent Hawks, how can I help you MechWarrior?”
“My name is Tassa Kay, I am looking for transport off this rock. I heard this was a good place to look.”
“What is a Clan Mountain Wolf pilot doing here? I heard your unit was engaged with the Falcons and militia.” He asked suspiciously
“Ha, the Fourteenth Mountain Wolf are not my command, I’ve no intention on fighting and dying with those Clansmen!” She said laughing her germanic accent suggested she was a native of the Lyran Commonwealth. “the MechWarrior that previously piloted this Mech chose the paint-job, I would not have. I fight for myself and I am looking to leave Gibbs to continue the fight elsewhere.” Suddenly there was several explosions at the far side of the base. “From where I am sitting, I think you can use the help” she said the Crescent Hawks and local defenders numbered less than a company of Mechs he could definently use additional help.
“Jade Falcon forces approaching perimetre!”
“You want a ride? Prove to me you are use in a fight!” Aksel shouted launching his own Shadow Hawk into the air converting the Mech quickly into its aerospace fighter mode joining the other Crescent Hawk pilot who was already airborne. He saw he didn’t need to communicate further with this Tassa Kay as she’d also launched her Mech into the air and was engaging a Jade Falcon Mech with paired the particle cannons mounted on her Mech. “Crescent Hawks the Ryoken II is allied we need to hold the Falcons at the perimetre until the DropShips are ready to go!”
For the next thirty minutes the Crescent Hawks fought, and died, for every metre of ground as they defended their own Leopard-class DropShip and an Aurora-class DropShip which was parked on the tarmac beside it. In that time the unit’s civilian support staff and dependents gathered and boarded the vessel while the unit fought off the Clansmen above Aksel and his wingman Amanda Tracy provided air support for the defenders until they were finally ready to escape.
“Kay this is Youngblood, unless you want to be left behind get onboard that Aurora now!” He ordered as the Wolf painted Ryoken II completed a death from above maneuver crushing a forty-five-ton Shadow Cat OmniMech under its feet. The seventy-five-ton BattleMech’s feet tearing through the green painted armour of the Clan Mech as it crushed the Shadow Cat into the ground.
“I am not finished yet!” She screamed angrily sending short range missile fire into another Falcon Mech “these honourless dogs deserve more.”
“We’ve given enough! I’ve lost three people on this world we’re not giving them more blood. If you want a ride off this planet, you are!” Youngblood communicated “Trenchant, give Kay another minute to get onboard then close doors and initiate take off!” He ordered flying around above the DropShips. “Crescent Hawks fighting withdrawal get onboard the Gold Rover, now!” He commanded his small unit couldn’t hold for long. He saw the three surviving MechWarriors scramble onboard their Leopard-class vessel he spared a glance at Panuwat Selanon’s Spectre BattleMech, unfortunately he wouldn’t be leaving this world with the rest of the unit two other MechWarriors had died defending the DropShips but Aksel knew neither of them personally they had arrived on the base days before and agreed to help the Hawks escape. As the last of his MechWarriors boarded the DropShip the Gold Rover’s engines engaged and the vessel began to run down the runway away from the fighting shrugging off Jade Falcon fire as it went. Moments later the Trenchant followed the Leopard accelerating across the runway escaping the world Youngblood was glad to see the Ryoken II was not being left behind. “Amanda head to orbit, we’ll dock there!”
“Affirmative, see you soon.” His wingman answered turning her LAM towards space Aksel accelerated his own aircraft following. Soon after they were in orbit and Youngbloods sensors immediately began screaming as four light Jade Falcon aerospace fighters were detected approaching. Aksel and Amanda’s LAMs couldn’t handle multiple aerospace fighters their machines were designed for specialist situations not open combat. He was responsible for all of the people onboard all of the ships present he couldn’t lead them to their deaths, he knew that could happen when they left the Kell Hounds, but he needed to find a way out for them.
“This is Aksel Youngblood of the Crescent Hawks we are trying to leave this system; I request safcon” he communicated asking the Falcons for safe passage from the system. He didn’t expect it to be granted but he had to try holding his course forwards he was prepared to do all he could to stop the Clan fighters. When there was no answer, he accepted today he’d die but he hoped he could help the two DropShips could escape.
“Crescent Hawk DropShips turn to course one-eight-three repeat turn to one-eight-three Asterix Flight will cover!” A new heavily German accented female voice came across the communications channel the two DropShips and LAMS turned immediately and the sensors lit up showing the new contacts on sensors. Six locally produced TFN-5H Typhoon Heavy Aerospace Fighters and a DropShip approaching each was painted in the colours of Lockheed-CBM of Gibbs which was primarily a light blue, with a yellow and red striped pattern and their weapons were already active engaging the incoming Jade Falcons with missiles, particle cannons and laser fire.
The mass assault from the Lockheed fighters overcame the Clan fighters rapidly knocking the four craft out of the fight. Behind the Typhoons came their Leopard CV-class Aerospace Fighter Carrier DropShip together the seven craft flew past the Crescent Hawks continuing to fire into the disabled Clan fighters until they were nothing but wreckage remained. “Thanks for the assist” Aksel communicated before watching the force come around behind the Crescent Hawks joining them in formation.
“You’re welcome Leutenant Kelly DeBrusk of Lockheed-CBM.” The pilot said introducing herself. “We’ve had to abandon the shipyard facility to the Clans, I’ve got dozens of civilians on the DropShip and we’re looking for a way out of this system, any chance of repaying our assist with one of your own? I’m sure Lockheed-CBM will pay up if you are anywhere near Tharkad?”
“Our next stop” he replied “we have a JumpShip waiting I’ll have coordinates transmitted it’s time we leave this place.” He said as the three DropShips and eight fighters turned away from the burning planet below. Fortunately, the Falcons WarShip which was assigned to this invasion had remained at the captured shipyard facility on the far side of the planet allowing the ships to escape to their Invader-class JumpShip.
This invasion by Clan Jade Falcon sees Khan Jana Pryde personally lead the assault on Donegal which sees the destruction of the Second Royal Guards RCT, the death of Lyran Commonwealth General of Armies Admiral Michael Washington, the crippling of the Star League Defence Forces First Kearny Highlanders and the destruction of the 789th Striker Regimental Brigade. Stories of the 789th’s sacrifice on Donegal to save Duke of Donegal Nejama Beersheba-Marsden from capture by the Falcons and the fighting retreat put up by the Second Royal Guards and First Kearny Highlanders increase support by the Lyran people for the Star League Defence Force and the Steiner crown.
The Battle of Donegal also sees the destruction of two Jade Falcon WarShips including the Mississippi-class Battleship Jade Spear and four Lyran Commonwealth WarShips including the LCS Elfurt, an Indefatigable-class Battleship. While the attacks on Gibbs and Donegal robs the Lyran Commonwealth of many major production facilities of aerospace fighters.
In all the attacks the Jade Falcons invade eight systems losing multiple clusters as they push through the Lyran defenders shattering multiple commands and driving the Lyrans back while also blooding several other new formations. The invasion also leaves Tharkad, capitol of the Lyran nation, perilously close to the Clan border. The loss of Donegal, Gibbs and the threat to Tharkad leads to questions in the Commonwealth regarding the viability of the leadership remaining on Tharkad.
-
Landing Operations Gold Rover (Leopard-class DropShip)
Cold Creek, Tharkad
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd August 3115
An icy wind blew through Captain Aksel Youngblood as he stepped clear of the Leopard-class DropShip Gold Rover making him wrap his thick fur lined brown jacket around his black and red duty uniform jumpsuit; on the left arm of his jacket like the jumpsuit below were the emblems of the Kell Hounds and the Crescent Hawks. The usual Tharkad snow was heavy in the air above them but so far it hadn’t begun to fall but it was only a matter of time. The unit had been diverted from Tharkad city to Cold Creek a city of fifty-million in the north-east of the Lockheed-CBM facilities for a landing due to traffic in and out of the primary spaceports. Already his Crescent Hawks had lost the services of Leutenant Kelly DeBrusk and her aerospace fighters who had broken formation as they approached Tharkad. The squadron were returning to the Lockheed facilities to reconnect with their primary employer Aksel couldn’t complain they had pulled the Crescent Hawks out of an uncomfortable situation over Gibbs saving themselves and the entire unit.
Aksel would have preferred to land at Tharkad City so he could access the main Mercenary Bonding office but there was an auxiliary office here in Cold Creek which would do. Even at a relatively small spaceport like the one here at Cold Creek everything appeared to be in commotion with conventional aircraft and multiple aerospace craft leaving and arriving as the Crescent Hawks two ships came in for a landing. Due to the traffic their DropShips had been left far from the terminal facility instead they were parked in an open waiting area.
Not remaining in the cold for long Aksel made his way into the waiting Slipper LX-Series hover taxi which would take him where he needed to. Immediately Aksel was hit by the warm air from inside the vehicle the driver barely waited for him to close the door before accelerating away from his unit’s two parked DropShips pushing Aksel back into the comfortable cabin seats the Slipper was built to carry four passengers and a decent amount of luggage. As they drove Aksel noticed the activity he’d noticed on their approach continued throughout the facility. “Welcome to Tharkad, boss, where we heading?” The young man driving the vehicle asked over the gentle hum of the hover engines as they exited the spaceport grounds following about a dozen other vehicles.
“Thank you, the Lyran Mercenary Bonding Office.” Aksel said tapping his credit-chip against the vehicle’s exchange reader on the flip up screen he saw a small amount was debited from his Lyran account.
“No problem, boss, be ten minutes or so” the young driver said keeping his eyes on the busy roads they turned away from the spaceport and onto the city by-pass the hovercraft effortlessly gliding over the permafrost and snow underneath. There were two rules that everyone on Tharkad had to remember for every journey bring something that could power through the snow or something that ignored it. The Slipper was perfect for the task able to ignore the snow below as it coasted gently down the road slipping in between the traffic with ease.
“The roads seem busy” he said making small talk as he glanced around it was mid-afternoon, he’d been to Tharkad a dozen times and rarely were the roads this busy.
“Lots of changing coming following the Archon’s announcement.” The driver said his eyes not leaving the road as he moved the hovercraft between the lanes of traffic the snow storm that had been threatening when Aksel landed was now falling heavily adding to the mounds of snow that covered the roads and making visibility difficult out of the forward screen. The Slipper’s driver was obviously well experienced with the weather and was making quick progress along the road.
“Sorry, what announcement? I’ve been out of the loop since the fall of Gibbs.” He said mentioning the world they’d fallen back from normally a DropShip downloaded local news as it travelled into a new system but Aksel hadn’t bothered to check it instead he’d spent time planning the Crescent Hawks next moves and checking on the repair schedules.
“Archon Jessica Steiner is running with her tail between her legs.” He said glancing back at Aksel before looking back at the road “she’s announced all government facilities and critical production facilities are to be moved off of Tharkad within the next three months to the world of Carlisle.” He said naming a world in the Alarion Province far from borders on all sides. “With them there’s going to be hundreds of people moving deeper into the Commonwealth, it’s a huge undertaking. It’s fine for the big wigs able to move at the drop of the hat, the rest of us have to stick around with our families and see things through.” He said as something popped up on his screen and the Slipper’s speed suddenly cut as the driver turned his vehicle to the left. “Sorry, boss, I’m adding a couple of minutes your trip” he said pulling the vehicle off of the main lanes and onto one of the side lanes cutting their speed even further. From behind the taxi a military convoy covering three lanes suddenly thundered past dozens of vehicles carrying heavy armoured vehicles. “They are going to turn Tharkad from this nice little ice ball we have into a frozen bunker intended on slowing any invader to a standstill, it’s going to make these streets a nightmare for visitors and journeys a lot more expensive for everyone.” He said as the last vehicle thundered past suggesting that he and everyone else would be paying for the choices that were made. “The Falcons taking Donegal really ruffled some local feathers” he said moving the vehicle back into the fast lane accelerating the Slipper.
The announcement hit Aksel like a ton of bricks, Tharkad was once the untouchable icy jewel at the heart of the Lyran Commonwealth it had never been invaded it had never touched by the major conflicts of the past, now with the movement of the Clans the world sat on the border of an aggressive enemy which so far had not been stopped by Inner Sphere defences. To hear that Tharkad would no longer be the heart of Lyran Government was a blow even to a mercenary like Aksel Youngblood.
“The military types think things could get really grim by the end of it, even bringing in the Błyskawica they don’t have much confidence.” He said as the vehicle turned off the by-pass onto the side streets military and police vehicles were in heavy presence even on the side streets. The mentioning of the Błyskawica was a piece of pride for the Lyran people it was a weapon of build by their enemy which had been captured and turned against them. The ship formerly served the Jade Falcons as the Emerald Talon, and had been re-named for an ancient weapon of resistance used on Terra during one of the many pre-space conflicts it would stand as a symbol of Lyran resistance against Clan Jade Falcon.
The hover taxi cut through the traffic before pulling up in front of the Lyran Mercenary Bonding Office there were offices like this in most cities on Tharkad each of them reporting to the central one in Tharkad City. The idea being that not all mercs would flood to the same place resulting in less conflicts of interest arising Aksel Youngblood wasn’t entirely convinced it but he didn’t have a say in it so he worked with the system. “Can you wait?” He asked standing beside the Slipper, the cold windy streets were busy with vehicles vying for places in the traffic, after seeing the commotion in the town he wasn’t convinced he’d get another taxi fast.
“It’ll cost you, boss, driver’s market today.” The young man suggested Aksel leaned into the back of the taxi and tapped his credit-chip against the reader then tapped it again. “You’re the boss” the driver said smiling surprised at Aksel’s generosity.
Wrapping his winter jacket around him Aksel rushed across the courtyard outside the Lyran Mercenary Bonding Office entering the glass fronted building he saw dozens of people milling around. He quickly got through the queue and headed to the reception desk. Behind the desk was a pretty young woman dressed in a light grey suit, white shirt and Steiner-blue tie with her blonde hair tied back into a ponytail. “Good afternoon, sir, welcome to Cold Creek Mercenary Bonding Office. I’m Assistant-Bonding Officer Yvon Carpenter.” She greeted him as an equally young man behind the desk squatted behind her grabbing some folders before moving off.
“Thank you” Aksel said remaining standing in front of the table “I’m Captain Aksel Youngblood of the Crescent Hawks. I’m looking to speak to the Bonding Officer.”
“Unfortunately, due to changes in Lyran Commonwealth Mercenary Procedures the Officer has moved to the world of Carlisle. This office is currently dealing with requests submitted prior to the Archon’s announcement on 29th July 3115.”
“There is no-one here that I can speak to?” Aksel asked surprised as someone else moved behind the desk grabbing more items.
“Unfortunately, due to changes in Lyran Commonwealth Mercenary Procedures this office will close once prior requests have been dealt with.” She said essentially repeating herself “I can make you an appointment to see the Bonding Officer at Tharkad City?” She offered
“Yes, that would be great.”
“What size is your command at present?”
“Currently two lances” he answered the young woman looked up at him “we’ve recently been fighting the Falcons and taken some losses.” She typed into her system “I can set you up in Tharkad City on the 21st September?”
“That’s more than a month away!” Aksel explained surprised “I’m a merc commander, I need work to keep food in our stomachs and our equipment in working order.” He said thinking he may even have to take the unit back to the Kell Hounds for support of they couldn’t help him on Tharkad. He hated the idea of having to return to the Hounds so soon but it might be necessary.
“Unfortunately, only a registered Bonding Officer can agree additional contracts for now all I can I can offer you is a closed contract agreement based on Tharkad which will see your unit join in the defence of Tharkad should there be an attack on Tharkad.” She offered his face must have told the story that he wasn’t interested in it, garrison work on Tharkad would see his unit thrown into a meat-grinder of a battle should it occur. “I can also offer you a closed contract agreement based on Freedom serving the Lyran Commonwealth Bonding Office and the Isle of Skye Bonding Office.” She said reading the screen “this contract will pay at a level dependent on your commands needs and will be a garrison and raiding contract based on the needs of the local bonding officer.” She suggested
“Sounds better” he admitted the chance of taking his unit against the Clans sounded far better than garrison work.
“I can pencil you in?” She asked Aksel nodded “The Crescent Hawks how many DropShips?”
“Three DropShips and one JumpShip available” he said before realizing the departure of the Lockheed-CBM pilots they’d arrived in system with three ships it at least made more sense to say they were the same as they’d arrived.
“You have your own JumpShip? Excellent are they bonded to the unit or contracted.”
“Currently bonded for non-combat operational transport.” He said there were two forms of contract with most JumpShip captains one contract that would see them assist in moving the unit from A-to-B but be used in other operations when not needed. The JumpShip would assist in movement into a disputed system but specifically would not join invasion fleets. The other saw JumpShips being contracted as part of the unit.
“Very good. As part of the pre-contract, you will be paid for the fuel spent travelling to Freedom. Further terms will be agreed on Freedom with the Mercenary Bonding Officer.” She said he nodded his agreement. “If you agreed please sign here” she said handing over the electronic pad and stylist Youngblood glanced down through the document.
“Looks really good” he said beginning to sign “are you moving with the office to Carlisle?” He asked making small talk as he finished the signature.
“Not likely, the bonding officer has already left, they’ll hire locally for assistants that way people will know what is available on Carlisle. There might be a need in the Tharkad City office but I’ll likely have to look for something else.”
“Ever fancied working for a merc outfit?” He asked handing the pad and stylist back.
“Not really?”
“Well, my outfit is small but if you want a job, I could use a new Chief Negotiator, we’re at the spaceport look for the berthing for the Crescent Hawks and the Gold Rover. We’ll be leaving in three or four days the offer is on the table until then.” He offered reaching out she was a friendly sort of person and his unit could use some support staff, especially ones who could help with negotiations.
“Thank you for the offer Captain, I appreciate it.”
“Thank you for your help, Yvon have a good day.” He said departing he made quick movements back towards the still waiting Slipper Hover taxi. “Thanks for waiting, back to the spaceport please.” He said getting inside tapping his credit chip again the driver smiled broadly seeing the charge come off, he’d obviously not been expecting further payment.
The journey back to the Spaceport was uneventful Aksel continued to speak with the Slipper driver about what was going on Tharkad. He found out the driver’s name was Niklas Devereaux and he’d driven taxis and other delivery vehicles around Tharkad for four years. He also wasn’t convinced that the Lyrans could hold back the Falcons. As the Slipper pulled up in front of the Gold Rover “well, I don’t know how you and your family feel about mercenary commands Niklas but we’ll be here for another three or four days. I’ve got space for you and your family if you want transport off world? We could probably find some space to tie this baby down too. I won’t throw you into combat if you don’t fancy it, we can always use people who just want to work on our base worlds.” He suggested seeing the young man’s face lighten up
“Thank you for the offer, I’ll speak to the wife and get back to you Captain” he said as Youngblood stepped out of the taxi and headed back onboard the DropShip at the top of the ramp stood Tassa Kay waiting for him, she’d already agreed to remain with the unit for their next assignment at least and when he left, she was overseeing the repainting of her Ryoken II. She was beautiful like a reborn Natasha Kerensky with dark red shoulder length hair, she wore her black leather jacket closely to her and despite the cold she was still wearing a white crop top underneath displaying her toned stomach. If Aksel Youngblood wasn’t a happy man he’d pursue her in a minute.
“Welcome back” she said greeting him “how did it go?”
“Thanks, we’re not staying long, a couple of days then we’re heading to Freedom. I got us a short-term raiding contract; we’ll head out when the ships are re-fueled. We’ll get more details from the office on Freedom.” He said walking into the DropShip as the doors closed behind them.
“Good, I never did like staying in one place too long.” She said back to him as they walked. Three days later as planned the unit boosted off the surface of Tharkad with two new crewmen with both Yvon Carpenter and Niklas Deveraux accepting terms with Aksel to join the Crescent Hawks with Niklas wife, daughter and Slipper all joining them as well. At the rate things were going with Aksel’s own daughter Jezebel and now Niklas’ daughter Cherie he might have to think of setting up a school as well.
Almost as soon as the two DropShips arrived in orbit a call rang through the Gold Rover “Captain Youngblood to the bridge, Captain Youngblood to the bridge!” The call repeated several times finishing just as Aksel arrived on the bridge.
“What’s up? We’ve barely left Tharkad.” He asked glancing around the cockpit monitors displayed what was happening outside the ship but they were pretty useless even their other DropShip, the Trenchant was tiny on the video screen.
“We have and incoming transmission from them” Captain Frank Connolly said indicating to the sensor screen which showed a Leopard CV burning hard towards them, Aksel glanced at the data and saw it was the Apennines the same ship that had carried the Lockheed-CBM pilots.
“Seriously, put them up” he ordered the communication channel crackled until it filled the room.
“This is Lieutenant Kelly DeBrusk, former employee of Lockheed-CBM to Captain Aksel Youngblood of the Crescent Hawks. Sir, we’re requesting to join formation and a place within the Crescent Hawks the Lockheed offices on Tharkad are all but abandoned we don’t have a home at the moment.” The aerospace fighter squadron pilot said as the ship continued to burn towards them.
“Captain, slow our speed, have the Trenchant do the same and put me on.” He ordered Connolly who nodded “Lieutenant DeBrusk, I’ll speak with my new head negotiator and have her draw up some contracts for your people.” He said pausing and thinking, he needed to figure out how to deal with their former employers too. “And I guess we’ll contact Lockheed with your contract termination papers. We’re heading for Freedom, welcome aboard.” He said signalling to Connolly to cut the channel “any more surprises?” He asked as the third DropShip joined the Leopard and Aurora-class ships in formation heading to the jump point.
Border conflict
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
8th October 3115
On the far periphery border of the Draconis Combine Clan Lynx launch heavy raids against the systems of Echo, Lonacuning and Sayer. The system of Lonacuning falls almost without a battle as a group of weekend warriors attempt to resist the incoming Clansmen. Both Echo and Sayer offer more resistance however with two Pesht Regulars Regiments and the Seventh Ghost Regiment defending these two worlds. The invasion force against Sayer is led by a determined Lynx force commanded by Star Colonel Zdeno Deleportas who commands the elite-rated Lynx Spirit Cluster and the former Rasalhague Dominion WarShip the Lioness. The York-class WarShip was one of the Rasalhague Dominion’s oldest WarShips and was once part of the Smoke Jaguar Clan.
The Lynx Spirit Cluster has been recently rebranded from the 201st Nova Cat Spirit Cluster which was part of Upsilon Galaxy which broke away from the Nova Cat Clan to join Clan Lynx. The entire Upsilon Galaxy in Clan Lynx has been re-branded as the Lynx’s new Lynx Spirit Galaxy with each Cluster re-branded and reinforced as part of the new Clan. Part of this reinforcement is an entire star of armour units and an entire star of conventional infantry forces which bulk out the command’s numbers significantly. While a new assault BattleMech named the Bjorn is seen among all Lynx forces.
According to both Draconis Combine and Star League Defence Force Intelligence organisations the Bjorn is built primarily in the Rasalhague Dominion. This eighty-ton BattleMech is capable of a running speed of sixty-four kilometre per hour and a jump capability of up to one hundred-and-twenty metres. The Mech is armed with a pair of large lasers, an autocannon, a Mech-sized mortar and a flamethrower.
On Echo the two Pesht Regulars units push back against the Lynx force holding their positions with the Twenty-first Pesht Regulars Regiment essentially being sacrificed in the defence of the world with its survivors folded into its sister regiment the Seventeenth Pesht Regulars. The governors of Echo called on Pesht to further support their defences.
Executive Meeting Room, Cenotaph Box
Jungle Arena, Solaris VII
Independent Clan Space Inner Sphere
21st August 3115
Below inside the Jungle Arena on Solaris VII a grudge match between two Mechs from Tanderek Stables and two Mechs from Cenotaph Stables was being fought as MechWarriors worked out their differences in the only way they knew how. Tanderek Stables had links to the Capellan Confederation while Cenotaph was linked more closely to the Federated Suns and more particularly St Ives Allard-Liao family. Standing taking a passing interest in the game below Star League Protectorate Leader Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion instead was deep in his memories as he remembered standing in this box with his friend and Solaris VII legend Kai Allard-Liao, while Victor was booked into this Stable’s box today under an assumed name the current owners knew exactly who was here and had been honoured to host their founder’s friend. Kai Allard-Liao had been a gifted MechWarrior and fought in dozens of games on Solaris VII winning the majority of them while also serving in the original Clan War with Victor which was where the two of them had become fast friends a friendship that had lasted until Kai’s passing in 3081.
“You’re far away again” his wife Danai Centrella-Davion said quietly squeezing his hand she had known Kai Allard-Liao more by reputation than by experience. She’d met him during the later stages of the Clan war when she’d first met Victor but she hadn’t become close friends with Kai as Victor had.
“Just remembering this world brings back a lot of memories.” He said quietly “and remembering just how old I am.” He said quietly squeezing her hand back.
“Solaris independence makes it a good place for a meeting, less prying eyes. Even the Clans respect the right for anyone to travel to the Game World and enjoy the games.” She said the Clan Watch knew Victor was here even though he’d arrived under an alias his face was recognizable anywhere in the Inner Sphere, but as long as he didn’t interfere with what was happening on Solaris, the agreement between the Star League and Clans was that they would leave him alone to enjoy the games. “And you’re as young as you feel, don’t let anyone tell you your old.” She said jokingly.
“Ha, I wish that were true and I could remain as beautiful as you are.” He said turning towards her embracing his wife since they had left the Federated Suns and entered the Protectorate, she was the one person he trusted absolutely. On the arena floor Saviour Mech recovery vehicles were removing the fallen Tanderek BattleMechs with the remaining Cenotaph BattleMech making a victory tour of the arena.
“How do you think this will go?”
“I fear badly.” Victor admitted watching the wreckage continue to be cleaned “Unfortunately I cannot give Ilse everything she wants.”
“Hesperus II” Danai said quietly naming one of the most important worlds in the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Yes, Skye currently has devolved powers of self-government simply because Tharkad allows them to.” He said “if Tharkad wanted to take back the Isle they could even with the Falcons pressing them. I will not give the Isle a reason to start a Civil War in the Commonwealth over Hesperus II. Even if it would benefit the Star League.”
“We could hold Hesperus II; it would be a great boon to Protectorate production.” She suggested playing devil’s advocate for him, while she was not part of the Star League Protectorate’s political structure, she was a key part of his.
“Yes, we could” he said quietly “but the Protectorate was formed to protect the worlds under its charge. I will not use it offensively against a member state.” He said “to do so would break the Star League and to break the Star League would break any sort of support structure we have that holds us together against the Clans. The Protectorate is not ready to become a new Hegemony, despite what Stone suggests.” He said naming Director-General Devlin Stone the leader of the Star League’s Kittery Prefecture who recently had vocally been calling on the Star League to push through the Capellan Confederation and link the main protectorate with his worlds in Kittery.
“Which returns us to Skye, you won’t help them break from the Commonwealth.”
“I won’t cause a war.” He said “I have started plenty of them in the past. The Isle of Skye has its own decisions to make about its future. If it finds a way to peacefully separate from the Commonwealth then I would entertain it but for now we can only offer them support through the Lyran state.”
“What’s left of it.” She said quietly continued rumours out of House Steiner made it absolutely clear that Tharkad was being turned into a fortress world intent on holding out against any invader regardless of the damage that was done to it while the nation’s leadership was moving to Carlisle.
“House Steiner can hold.” He said still proud of his heritage “and they have a better chance of holding with both Skye’s and our help.” He suggested “we just need to make Ilse see that.” He finished off as there was a knock at the door moments later his assistant arrived announcing the arrival of their guest Duchess Ilse Kelswa-Aten, the Duchess of Skye and the Duchess of Tamar (in-Exile).
As Victor Steiner-Davion had suspected the Duchess of Skye wished to break the entire Isle of Skye from the Lyran Commonwealth using the firepower of the Star League Defence Force to make House Steiner give up their claim to Hesperus II and the Mech factories based there. With five Clans pressing the Isle from various directions Ilse believed the only way to ensure their freedom was to look for assistance beyond the Lyran realm as House Steiner geared its defences to holding Tharkad and Coventry. The Exarch went to great pains to explain to Ilse that using Star League forces to attack a member state was not the way to ensure the freedom of her people instead she needed to work with the Lyran Commonwealth and Star League to push back against the Clans and only together could they blunt the Clan push. Instead of pushing for the Independence of the Isle Victor suggests another meeting takes place between the Star League, Skye and House Steiner to push back against the Clans.
Basic Training, Police Headquarters
Tellman IV, Raven Alliance
28th August 3115
For years the Snow Ravens and Outworlds Alliance had slowly morphed from being a periphery state and Clan into one nation known as the Raven Alliance. During those years of transition, the dominant Snow Ravens who had grown to rule the nation had allowed small independent units to continue to operate within their borders protecting the worlds that needed help but that the Ravens didn’t want to spare main line units on. One of these small units was known as the Thermo Police a unit that had served and protected dozens of Outworlds Alliance worlds for decades providing a roving Police force which units using limited resources.
In recent years losses had seen the Thermo Police significantly reduced in members making future operations unlikely, but now the Ravens wished to see the unit restored to its former strength and continue its work in protecting the Ravens periphery worlds and to explore the Outworlds Wastes. To support these efforts a group of young enthusiastic warriors and a couple of aged veterans had been assigned to boost up the numbers of the unit.
Walking towards the Thermo Police’s Headquarters building through the built-up snow outside MechWarrior Karl of Bloodhouse Kanter saw an imposing red brick building with multiple black and white painted vehicles parked in front of it most of them looked like they were modified civilian cars and transport vans instead of military units. From the front, the building looked like it was bigger than most in the area and it extended backwards several hundred metres into where there was a large hanger which held the unit’s BattleMechs. While the building was imposing it had not been Karl’s choice to join, He’d passed his first Trial of Position with only a single kill which had earned him the position of a MechWarrior but hadn’t given him much of a choice of assignments. Instead, while some of his sibkin were headed to the Draconis Combine of Federated Suns units Karl was headed to the periphery border, When Karl had heard of the assignment he’d begun to plan, he still desired an assignment a front-line unit so he could win honour for his Clan and have a chance at competing for a Bloodname. To do this he would make the most of the situation he was in and ensure he was successful.
Entering the facility Karl and the other eight recruits were confronted by a room that looked like it was about three hundred years old and out of some sort of ancient fictional drama, ninety percent of the room looked like it was made of dark wood with a tall central desk manned by a clerk in the middle of the room with doors behind leading deeper into the facility and a set of stairs that led up either side of the room to upper floors, there were also doors down each side of the ground floor leading to further rooms.
This main room was filled with people some were civilians who were sat on benches that run the length of the wall he’d entered at, others were who looked like staff members were dressed dark blue uniforms and what must have been prisoners dressed in orange jumpsuits, who were being moved by those in blue between rooms. The room was dominated by an imposing figure of a man dressed in tradition looking clothing made of thick layers of weather resistant cloth which would serve him well in the icy wastes of Tellman IV. Other than his clothing Karl noticed was his age, the man was at least a hundred years old, but despite his age he stood tall and proud and he wore a thick braided mane of hair which was tied back behind his head in a knot which only added to his size.
“I am Kotori Nostra, the Commandant of these Headquarters, before your minds hurt you no, I am not a former member of the Nova Cat Clan and I do not follow visions.” He said his large frame was matched by his deep voice. “My parents were from Clan Nova Cat and were part of a Clan intelligence mission Intelser which scouted the Inner Sphere before the Clan Invasion they did not abandon the Clans they were left to fend for themselves as were many of the Intelser members after that mission was completed.” He explained Intelser was a mission that was launched by the then exclusively Homeworld based Clans in 2984 it was designed to gather intelligence on the Inner Sphere. “I and my family carry their name to honour their service and their lives, if you trueborns have a problem with it deal with it as I will not be changing for you.” He said defiantly bloodnames were sacred to the Clans but this man did not care and despite his age he could probably give the Ravens a fight for it. “And to answer your next question yes I am actually that old I was born in 3010 and I have served as a MechWarrior defending those who need it since before many of the warriors who you are descendant of.” He said chuckling to himself as he saw the surprise cross many of their faces. “I expect as much discipline in these Headquarters than the discipline your Sibko trainers would have expected. You are warriors in your Clan’s eyes but I will expect you to excel in our training which you will pass before you are allowed in the field. We are here to serve and protect the people of the Alliance and of those who cannot protect themselves. We do not accept that the weak simply should perish, Clan Snow Raven’s leaders have seen to allow us to continue with those goals, I expect all of you to respect our choices or you will not last here.” He said as behind him from a set of stairs that led off to the right of the room walked another older man, he was younger than Nostra but still old by accepted Clan standards.
“Now that Commandant Nostra has introduced himself I am Captain Alec Oak, I am the commander of the unit when it is in field, welcome to the Thermo Police.” He said looking him over Karl could tell he was a MechWarrior despite being older than most warriors he had seen he was built like someone who could look after himself. “Prepare yourselves for some of the most intense training you have so far experienced, we with the Thermo Police are expected to serve and protect those we meet and do things that no other combat unit are capable of. We will have to solve problems on our own we will not always encounter enemies who are willing to fight by your Clan rules and we will not always be able to follow the path of honour.” He warned them Karl didn’t like the sound of what he was hearing but he was a lowly MechWarrior without a Bloodname if his Clan’s leadership supported the idea then he too would try the way of this strange unit.
“Do not expect all of the rules you learned in Clan school to help you with this unit, you need to be adaptable.” Alec Oak continued warning them all about what Karl had been thinking about, this was not a typical Clan unit assignment. Karl glanced around his fellow recruits the two older Raven warriors would probably be right at home here they didn’t need to prove themselves as a success to their Clansmen instead they only needed to survive until they met an honourable death, he and the other young recruit could learn to adapt and fight honourably within the rules of their own unit, but he wondered about the five ProtoMech warriors who were part of the unit. ProtoMech pilots were far from the most adaptable of warriors instead acting as a collective unit to engage enemies the enhancements built into their bodies made them weaker when separated from their machines over long periods but allowed them to absolute control nearly merging completely with the machine they piloted. He wondered why they had been assigned here since they could be a liability on the field.
“Over the next few weeks, you will collectively learn how this unit operates and we approach situations, you will learn the rules and laws that we live by. You will be tested mentally and physically I expect you all to succeed.” He said before turning and climbing back up the stairs leaving them with Kotori.
“You will be billeted in the Headquarters” Kotori said his deep voice “you have classes beginning tomorrow followed by several physical challenges and vehicle maintenance. It is a full schedule; I am sure you will all do well.” He said Karl thought he saw a smirk on the old man’s lips Karl didn’t know what he’d let himself in for but he was ready to try.
-
The Thermo Police are of course the canon unit from the Spotlight On of the same name. They've got several more parts coming for their story. It's sort of a thing that's developing quite naturally as I'm writing the story line the same people will get several parts as it progresses and it'll bring us forward while also telling their stories.
I'm glad you both (and I hope others) liked the updates so far. Festung Tharkad? I like that I may have to use it, I know exactly where that story line is going so here goes.
The next Solaris Racing Event is from the previous threat I left a link to before the other update. I have cleaned it up a bit and added to it. I will have additional Racing Events in the distant future if anyone wants things added or to have a go at a race feel free I'll welcome it! I may even draw out your race just for fun (or feel free to give it a go).
Solaris Racing Event
Dunnet Forest, Thurso
Solaris VII, Independent Clan Territory
8th September 3115
The second event in the Solaris Racing League had come up quickly following the success of the first. Viewer ratings had gone through the roof and the Solaris Entertainment Company (SEC) had pushed and pushed for the next race to be brought forward to keep the hype rising but the newly formed league had held its ground and kept to their planned schedule. As the racers and their support crews had packed up their equipment into a dozen GESV’s and other transport vehicles and traveled from San Bardo Canyon across Solaris to the city of Thurso near Dunnet Forest the SEC had contented itself with highlights from the first race and in-depth interviews with the racing drivers and close looks at the new aircraft in use over the Game World with feature presentations being shown regularly on Tri-Vid screens across Solaris.
This race track was longer than the San Bardo Canyon race and took place in and around the City of Thurso and the nearby Town of Crownkirk. From what the mayors of the two towns were passing onto the SEC every hotel room and hired house were booked out for the entire week. Additional housing had been brought in by a cargo DropShip with dozens of GESV’s configured to carry civilian housing cubicles. The Generic Expandable Service Vehicles were not comfortable living with some of the guests describing their “rooms” inside the vehicles and trailers as little more than brightly lit coffins long enough for a single sleeping cubicle, an overhead video recorder and shared toilet facilities but they provided sleeping accommodation for the die-hard fans. Already both Thurso and Crownkirk were considering building holiday home expansion areas should the race season return a second year.
High above Solaris waiting for the next race to begin sitting in his ASF-23 Protector Aircraft Jonnie Mjalby wasn’t thinking about the sleeping accommodation of his fans instead his thinking was focused on the race ahead. He felt pretty confident his win at San Bardo had been partly because of a decent time and partly because the public had gotten behind his race style but today was a whole new challenge. The San Bardo Canyon relied on maneuverability over speed Dunnet Forest/Thurso Racetrack on the other hand depended on speed with several long straights on which Mjalby’s Protector would struggle with.
Listening to the announcer Rick de Graff Mjalby maintained his altitude at just over two hundred metres and maintained cruising speed on his main HUD he saw the countdown timer had started. “Today ladies and gentlemen here high in the skies above Solaris, our winner from the previous race Jonnie Mjalby, piloting an ASF-23 Protector aircraft, begins proceedings the others will be using his time as a benchmark and watching his performance for tips. Good luck Mjalby!” He said as he did the countdown timer hit zero and Mjalby banked his aircraft below one hundred metres and headed for the starting line.
Unlike San Bardo Canyon the Dunnet Forest was designed from the ground up as a spectator stadium with dozens of stands filled with a live audience just to add to the pressure on the pilots. Now was not the time to think of spectators Mjalby thought as his fighter crossed the starting line. Almost immediately he turned the Protector into a hard-right turn onto the first straight maintaining altitude of eight metres he flew past the towering spectator stand on his left-hand side before heading out across the Thurso River which bisected the course. The trip across the choppy river water was a short one and Mjalby was quickly over land again entering the first stadium section known locally as Pittodrie.
The area was essentially an oval cut out of the forest with spectator stands, multiple food and drink stands and medical facilities on all side’s spectator safety was paramount but if one of the planes crashed in the stands it would be carnage. Mjalby had not intention of creating such a scene and maintained an even speed as he flew into the area ignoring the flashing lights from the stands, he concentrated on making the perfect right-hand turn fighting the g-forces put against his body he clenched his muscles forcing the blood back towards his brain as the aircraft completed the turn the speeds travelling at and maneuvers he was attempting were relatively low-g force turns but anything placed on the body could cause issues if the pilot was not prepared. Leveling out his fighter leapt forward as he accelerated and Pittodrie Stadium was a memory as quickly as it had entered his mind. After the stadium the fighter was heading back across Thurso River flying parallel to the Interstate Highway 16 Bridge passing by the town of Crownkirk where more spectators were cheering him on and watching the race on massive Tri-Vid screens Mjalby intentionally tipped the wings while maintaining speed giving the public a little show.
The Protector quickly passed over the Road Tunnel leading into the town and then Mjalby pushed the aircraft into a shallow dive slowing his speed slightly he entered Nevis Tunnel, a man-made paved tunnel through the hard rock of the same name. Following the “S-Bend” track of the Tunnel Mjalby accelerated as he exited entering the second stadium Hillhead.
Smaller than Pittodrie but still packed with people Hillhead was a loop with four tight left turns and one tight right turn. Too fast you’d overshoot and have to raise in altitude to turn and re-enter the course losing time and points, too slow and this section would cost you valuable time. Mjalby’s Protector was well suited for this section maintaining the same speed he held the turn again fighting the g-forces once more he put on a show and the crowd loved it. As with the previous stadium section Hillhead Stadium passed quickly and he was soon heading back into Dunnet Forest flying between the trees on one side and Nevis Rock on the other he followed the path of the course left around Nevis Rock and back towards Crownkirk and into the next section.
This part of the course Jonnie Mjalby knew his Protector was not well suited for it with long sweeping turns that took them through the forest and towards a raised area known as Beinn Hob. Here planes with a high-top speed would have a significant advantage the turns suited high-speed flying with relatively low g-forces there wasn’t much he could do but ride through the long turn and concentrate on not messing up. Raising out of the trees and up Beinn Hob Mjalby focused on the next section which would see him travel up, down and then up again long “S-Bend” over the hill which would take him into the third S-Bend. By the time Mjalby’s Protector had the hill for a second time he could see the third stadium section the Daniel Keith Stands. Named for one of the founders of Crownkirk the Daniel Keith Stands jutted out of the side of Beinn Hob and Mjalby felt a little sorry for the packed spectators below as the winds up the side of the hill buffeted the area. But he wasn’t here to feel sorry for them or watch the crowd however instead he was here for an almost leisurely right turn between the stands followed by a second right turn that took him back down the hill and into Dunnet Forest. According to the race guide this section could catch a pilot off guard as the trees appeared to come up rapidly as the aircraft accelerated down the hill and back into the forest but they were no trouble for Mjalby who carried on the straight towards the bridge of Interstate Highway 16.
Unlike his previous encounter with the ground road this time the course took Mjalby’s fighter under the huge bridge that connected Thurso with other parts of the region. He could see plenty of spectators and emergency services in the area watching his fifty-ton fighter pass under the bridge and then once cleared from that obstacle make an immediate right turn under a natural rock formation known as Angelica’s Archway. From there Mjalby crossed the Thurso River for a third and last time now entering Thurso itself to finish the race. Along the sides of the course there were lines of trees which helped dampen the noise for the residence of the city who were only a few hundred feet away. The trees also hid energy barriers similar to those in the Solaris Mech arenas which were designed to absorb an aircraft hitting them and force the craft either into the ground or into the air Mjalby hoped if he ever hit any of them it was the latter result and not the former.
Travelling past the trees Mjalby’s Protector entered the final section known as the Janet Porter Stadium, again named after a founder of Thurso, it was a commercial haven like the other spectator stands with food, drink and advertising throughout designed like the rest of this course to make money little else. Flying around the series of left turns Mjalby intentionally rolled the aircraft in a barrel roll showing off for the crowd counting on their votes to help keep him up the boards as they headed into the final race of the season. Making the last left turn before the finish line Mjalby knew that speed alone would not help him win and instead pulled the aircraft back doing a loop-the-loop just short of the finish line adding a little flourish to his performance.
As he flew away from the course Jonnie Mjalby knew all he could do now was wait for the other competitors to finish. There were seven other competitors that would follow him five of those aircraft would outrun his Protector in open flight he just had to hope the crowds were still on his side or one of the others made a mistake.
---
Hours later the final competitor had crossed the line and the spectator vote had been counted leaving Jonnie with a fourth-place finish. During the course of the other competitors flights Irene Steele the Guardian pilot who had come second in the San Bardo Canyon run had lost control of her fighter and crashed. She’d been able to eject but the fighter was a right-off in the medical GESV Mjalby visited her they’d known each other for years competing in various one-off events.
“Glad to see you made it out of that wreck in one piece” he said greeting her Irene was the same age as Jonnie Mjalby, twenty-six, originally from the Federated Suns she’d moved to Solaris sixteen years before when her father had come looking for fame and fortune. He’d been killed in the Solaris Mech Arenas and Irene had decided that life was not for her instead taking aerospace fighter lessons with the intention of gaining a position within the LCAF. Things hadn’t turned out that way and instead she’d started flying acrobatics on Solaris to make money now that income had been taken from her.
“Yeah, Segura didn’t come out of it so well.” Irene replied, the fighter had been destroyed in the crash. “That’s me out, I see you didn’t do so well either?”
“Still there” Jonnie Mjalby said looking down at his injured friend. “Listen, I asked the doc you’re still flight capable; your injuries are not all that severe.”
“Thanks for reminding me Jonnie, but I’m lacking a fighter.”
“I happen to have a spare” he said smirking he saw her surprised one fighter was expensive a second was nearly unheard of. “Juliusz Kamil decided to hang up his flight gloves before this tournament” he explained she’d heard the “Grandfather of Flight” had retired earlier in the year. “His Striking Cobra was going cheap.”
“I thought Kamil wanted to put it in a museum?”
“He did, it might still end up there, but it’s got more miles in it and I offered him more.” He admitted what Kamil wanted was important but the fighter belonged to him now.
“What difference does that make to me, Jonnie, I’ve barely got enough for my medical bills and to pay off the support staff. I’m out of this game.”
“I’ll give you the Striking Cobra” he said raising his hand to stop her speaking “on credit. You place in this tournament you pay me some of the money for it. You win it you can buy it outright from me.” He suggested offering her a lifeline he could see tears in her eyes.
“Why?” She croaked
“You deserve to see it to the end, just don’t crash that thing before I get a chance to fly it.” He said winking to her before turning to leave. With her last place at Dunnet Forest she was fourth place in the championship out of the major money-making positions but still in touching distance to the leaders going into the last round at the Slanotov Industrial Zone in Solaris Arctic Zone. If she placed and he didn’t at least he’d get some of the money back from this event.
Trade Mission, International Zone
Westover, Sea Fox Claimed territory
Free Worlds League
20th September 3115
The Clans and Mercenaries tended not to get on in fact most occasions Clan forces saw them as dezgra and hunted them to extinction. International Zones on Sea Fox trade worlds were different however, run by Clan merchants the warrior caste was here only to ensure Inner Sphere visitors were not armed and to take part in various Trials of Combat.
Mercenary commander Colonel Naomi Wrangler, the commander of The Thunder Road mercenary regiment, stood near the back of a crowd which had gathered to watch Smoke Jaguar leader Khan Petra Furey dispatch a Sea Fox Star Colonel in hand-to-hand combat. For several years now Naomi had been aware of the Smoke Jaguar faction for a couple of years now since she had taken over control of the Lesnovo District following a popular vote. According to intelligence reports she’d read from Bowang the Free World’s League’s Intelligence Agency SAFE had vetted these Smoke Jaguar survivors and found that they were not acting like the Clan they once were instead helping build up native populations. So far, the Smoke Jaguar faction had little contact with the Clans other than the traders here on Westover. As Naomi watched the young Khan dispatched a second Sea Fox warrior claiming victory in the Trial of Possession over an Elemental Battle Armour Production Facility. As far as Naomi knew up until now almost all of the Smoke Jaguar’s power armour had been of the Nighthawk type built on the world of Niops. For them now to possess Elemental Power Armour was a significant upgrade in capabilities.
As she stood and watched the Clans exchange pleasantries not the battle was over, she felt the approach of Lt. Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson, the former co-commander of the Chaos Irregulars, like her fellow co-commander she’d accepted the new rank when her unit joined The Thunder Road. “I’ll never understand them” Ariel said watching the Clansmen, as a former commander of a unit herself Naomi had given Ariel and Jake leeway when they spoke with her, allowing them to voice their opinions and join her on this mission.
“No, me neither” Naomi admitted the Clans were alien to them even if they were willing to trade with anyone willing to pay. “How did you do?” She asked she’d tasked Ariel with securing transport assets for the Thunder Road given that their command was bigger now than ever. Although a significant military asset the Sea Foxes allowed any trades to occur in the International Zone as long as they were done peacefully, to enforce this both women had given up their weapons when they arrived.
“Not bad, but also not great” she said “Free Worlds League rejects I’m afraid.” She admitted they’d hoped for Clan equipment but Naomi had ordered her to buy what they could afford and what they needed, not wants. “Three Hamilcar DropShips for a cut down price.” Ariel said Naomi didn’t much like the sound of it and her face probably showed it, the Hamilcar was a very specialist design mainly intended for Zero-G assaults. “The Sea Foxes captured them when they captured Westover but no-one had taken any interest in them so they modified them a little bit.” Ariel reassured her explaining her choice. “On each ship they removed a pair of aerospace fighter bays and gave them a bit more fuel making them more useful in an atmosphere, they then streamlined the guns to Particle cannons, long and short-range missiles and anti-missile systems.” She explained “less to break on all three of them, they’ll be easier to maintain and they’ve got better range and uses. I’d class them almost like a modified Leopard.”
“Well, we won’t likely be launching any space borne assaults in the near future but I’ll take the chance to move a company in a pinch. We’ll have to keep an eye on them but they might be worth it.” Naomi admitted “I got off a little better.” She said as the two of them moved away from the trial location. “They’ve started up a modified Dictator-class DropShip manufacturing line here on Westover but sales have been dismal, no-one knows what to expect from them.” She said the design had been modified with more modern weapons and defences and had a reconfigured cargo bay. “The Clans themselves don’t want to buy an ancient DropShip design with Inner Sphere weapons even if it is configured to carry three Binaries of troops.” She explained the Sea Fox idea seemed to be to build up interest in the design and then improve it with Clan technology. “So, the trader was more than happy to turn one over to us, and if we spread the news of its use then we may get a kick-back from them in the future.”
“Sweet, now we just have to hire crews. Our current staff can probably get them back home but operational use will be more different.”
“Agreed, how do you think the boys are getting on?” By ‘the boys’ Naomi was referring to her father John Wrangler and Ariel’s former co-commander Jake Chowla.
“I’m sure Jake is doing his best to get into as much trouble as he can while away from the burden of command.” She admitted Jake’s continued recovery from losing his wife was being helped by her former command’s new place within the Thunder Road and time away from the unit would help too.
“Yes, I’m sure my father is doing the same. Our first major supply run since his retirement and he just happens to come along.” She mused wondering why her father came along.
“He trusts you Naomi, I’m sure of that, I think he mainly came for Jake’s benefit.” She said having been able to observe them a little bit. “You have done a lot for him since Reema’s death and the Chaos Irregulars becoming part of The Thunder Road has been great for him too but your father is quite active with him too.”
“He’s still grieving for my mother’s passing a few years ago and I think he sees Ob, as a bit of a project.”
“Ob?” Ariel questioned Jake’s first name was Obadiah but she rarely heard anyone else use it especially since Reema’s passing.
“Yes, I think my father sees Jake as a bit of a project, seeing a lot of my father in him.” She said dancing over Ariel’s question.
“Ob?” Ariel pushed
“I’m sure they are getting into trouble and will have a surprise for us, I’m sure.” Naomi said carrying on walking “Com’on, we’ll head back to the field we can inform the crews and have them come and collect our new DropShips while we wait.”
“Seriously Naomi? What the hell!” She said as the Colonel kept walking away from her not answering Ariel’s question the two of them were close in age and despite the hierarchy of command, they got on quite well personally but if Naomi didn’t want to share it didn’t seem like she would.
---
Several hours later Naomi Wrangler was back at the landing field which the small contingent of Thunder Road personnel who had accompanied her. She’d arranged the collection of the units newest four DropShips and was now just waiting for her father to return but he was already an hour overdue. Now standing inside the command deck of the Overlord-class DropShip Stonewall she waited trying to show she was calm and not worried he was missing.
Suddenly the radio crackled to life “Road House to Stonewall, permission to approach” it said using her father’s old callsign. Naomi nodded to the crewmen who granted permission. “Received Stonewall, be prepared for a flyby.” Her father said which got Naomi’s attention her father was airborne? She walked over to the sensor desk and watched as from the south a two-hundred-and-forty-ton Koi Heavy Transport WiGE approached the airfield at speed flying low as the Wing-in-Ground-Effect aircraft were known for.
“What on earth?” Naomi wondered heading out of the command deck and down towards the ground. By the time she reached the ground the massive Koi was touching down on the tarmac it was painted in a deep red on the primary wide-bodied hull with the wings painted in black. She could see where insignia had been painted over but it was clearly the insignia of the Draconis Combine which wasn’t too surprising as the craft was designed and built there. How it had crossed the Inner Sphere and ended up in the arse-end of the Free Worlds League was anyone’s guess but here it was and it appeared to be commanded by her father. The craft was designed to land on land or in water with the hull curved underneath like the underside of a boat and the four turbine engines high above the waterline at the rear of the craft with two near the tail on either side of the craft and two more engines over the top of the hull. The massive craft larger than anything else in the Thunder Road’s organisation Naomi did not have a clue how they were going to get it back to Bowang.
Stopping several hundred metres from the Stonewall the massive clamshell doors at the front of the Koi opened with the nose of the craft splitting open like a massive sideways mouth. From inside the craft a ramp extended to the ground and locked in place. From inside she could hear the revving of fuel cell engines and within a couple of minutes the first of two large wheeled transport vehicles drove out. Both vehicles were the same painted in primarily blue and white the vehicles looked like long range transport trucks with extended trailers once they came out onto the ground, they turned to either side and stopped flanking Naomi’s position. From both sides the trucks and trailers of the vehicles opened automatically raising upwards creating a canopy over the side of the truck. From the inside of the truck counters extended and lowered to the ground creating service counters. From the cabs of the two trucks her father and Jake Chowla exited the vehicles heading over to them.
“Good afternoon, Colonel” her father greeted her formally as he approached.
“Father, what the hell?”
“This?” John Wrangler asked surveying the two vehicles and the Koi behind “this is for my retirement” he said “I’m calling it the Road House.” He explained “I’m not going to mope around the Complex back home, I need something to throw myself into this is going to be it. Bowang has a growing entertainment industry especially with all the mercs that have come through in the recent years but outside Darby they don’t have many entertainment venues. Road House is the answer, we’re going to travel across Bowang and we’re going to bring the entertainment to the people and bring in some money for the unit.” John explained Naomi looked at Jake for support but he just smirked at the idea her father had retired but this idea seemed to reinvigorate him.
“How are we going to get it home?” She asked but almost on cue she had her answer as a purple and red painted Danis-class DropShip approached the airfield from a sub-orbital trajectory.
“The DropShip will transport the Koi and anything else we need then she’ll transfer to the Thunder Road full time, use it as you want Naomi myself and my silent business partner here” he said indicating to Jake “have bought the DropShip, the Koi and the GESV’s. Jake will assist me when he’s not deployed with the unit but over wise it’s my show.” He said Naomi glanced at the younger man who seemed like he relished the idea.
“Colonel, I’d expect your commitment to the Thunder Road to continue.”
“Understood, I know what I’ve signed up for.” He said but his eyes told her that he was thrilled by the idea of getting on the road with her father. “Road House will be a success as will the Thunder Road.” He promised her but Naomi couldn’t help but wonder what they’d gotten themselves in for.
Weapons Research Facility WD-1152
Rosice, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
28th September 3115
If the Lyran Commonwealth was not facing enough troubles with the Clans pressing at their borders and the Isle of Skye again pushing for a breakaway from the state on the world of Rosice in the Halfway province a huge explosion engulfs a weapons research facility killing dozens inside and dozens more in the nearby area costing millions of C-Bills. Within days of the explosion terrorists claiming to be part of the Democracy Now movement take responsibility for the attack.
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Another good update there DC.
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Another good update there DC.
Thanks
Royal Mechbay, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
16th October 3115
Walking slowly across the Mechbay’s floor Prince Luther Davion approached his father Burton Davion who stood in front of three BattleMechs which stood proudly waiting for orders. The first BattleMech was Hanse Davion’s famous Battlemaster “Dana” painted primarily in royal blue the number “24” was written in red on the right torso while two stripes one in red and one in white ran from the left shoulder down across the BattleMech to the floor. The BattleMech was over one hundred years old and was only moved once a month as the test pilots ensured its actuators did not seize up. Recently his father had suggested permanently moving it to a display in the city celebrating the successes of the Federated Suns during the Fourth Succession War. Luther stood and looked at the Mech as he approached his father and wondered why he cared for the BattleMech it had sat in this Mechbay for both of their lives and neither of them had met Hanse.
Next stood the Templar III which belonged to his father the eighty-five-ton OmniMech named “Dragon’s Wrath” by Burton Davion. The BattleMech was painted identically to the Battlemaster beside it.
Finally stood Luther’s own OmniMech the Dire Wolf known as “Prometheus” which had originally belonged to his grandfather Victor Steiner-Davion. Luther had piloted the BattleMech twice since returning to New Avalon but the pain from the injuries he took on Terra returned both times. The OmniMech was in the middle of being repainted with the traditional Steiner blue of the Lyran Guards with yellow piping highlights being painted over to match the others. Luther had not known about the new paint job but then he hadn’t been here for several weeks.
“How do you like it?” Burton asked seeing his son appear Burton was tall nearly six foot tall and broad shouldered far unlike his father Victor. Luther had fallen between the two slightly shorter than his father and slightly taller than Victor. They all had the same lightly coloured hair of most Davion men but unlike his father Luther had grown his hair out a bit as long as his shoulders.
“I had not been aware you were having Prometheus repainted” he said looking at the OmniMech.
“It is time, Victor’s time is over with the Federated Suns.” Burton said his father using his Grandfather’s first name felt strange to Luther but recently Burton’s opinion on his father had fallen significantly due to the political changes Victor Steiner-Davion had brought to the growing Protectorate. “The time for us to honour our link to House Steiner is over, now we must show pride in our own House and get you ready for the field.”
“I am not ready” Luther said “I have many studies to complete and my physio-therapy is not complete.”
“Your doctors say otherwise” Burton said angrily his voice raising.
“What do they know!” Luther snapped back at his father “each time I exercise the pain returns, I cannot pilot a BattleMech until my body is ready.” He complained “until then I will continue with my studies. These icons you are so proud of” he said nodding at the three Mechs standing silently “can wait for me to be ready.” He said turning to march off away from his father.
“Then perhaps your sister will accept the challenge of taming Prometheus if you are not willing!” Burton challenged his son to react but instead Luther kept walking. Luther’s sister Leah was seventeen and had already begun training as a BattleMech pilot but she had yet to begin real studies.
Objective Raid, Edasich Motors
Vesteralen, Forbidden Islands
Edasich, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
19th October 3115
After a brief Trial of Possession on Edasich against the Hell’s Horses defenders the Crescent Hawks were more than pleased with what they found at the the Edasich Motors production plant on the Forbidden Islands. When they had arrived Captain Aksel Youngblood had challenged the Clan defenders to a single production run of the contents of the Edasich Motors complex expecting a haul of the fusion engines that had been produced there since the fall of the first Star League. In a hard-fought battle, which had seen two Crescent Hawks BattleMechs fall and the death of MechWarrior Stephen Livingston the Crescent Hawks were victorious against a Trinary of Hell’s Horses from the Thirty-second Mechanized Strike Cluster. To the mercenaries surprise they found that Edasich Motors plant had been refurbished to produce Thor, or Summoner, OmniMechs by Clan Hell’s Horses and standing waiting for deployment were fifteen brand new machines.
With the loss of two of their own BattleMechs and a vacant slot within the Crescent Hawks already existing the Hawks had claimed three of the OmniMechs for themselves while the remaining twelve would go to their employers in Lyran Commonwealth space not a bad haul for a single raid. The Mechs were brand-new and lacked any security precautions of systems making them easy for the Hawk pilots to move them into the waiting DropShips.
Standing guard over the operation was Tassa Kay in her Ryoken II BattleMech. She watched as the brown painted OmniMechs were moved into the waiting DropShips and could help but smirk the Horses had been foolish to upgrade a factory so close to their front lines and then to accept a Trial despite having a full cluster defending it. She knew the Star Colonel in command of the Thirty-second would be facing a Circle of Equals following this failed operation for their failure to stop the Crescent Hawks which would likely cause them to do something rash.
As she stood guard over the loading operations something rash happened almost on queue a single Vulture, or Mad Dog, OmniMech painted in the brown, blue and gold camouflage paint scheme of the Thirty-second Mechanised Cluster approached their position. “Contact, single Mad Dog OmniMech approaching. I am intercepting them.” She said pivoting her Ryoken’s stance towards the incoming Mad Dog switching her communication system to a general frequency she challenged the enemy Mech just as it walked into range of her particle cannons. “I am Tassay Kay of the Crescent Hawks; we are loading our Isorla into the DropShips as agreed upon by our victory in the Trial of Possession. Identify youself and the reason you are here.” She challenged the incoming pilot.
“I am Star Colonel Tvedten Ravenwater of Clan Hell’s Horses I declare a Trial of Refusal against the Crescent Hawks.”
“There is no Trial of Refusal following a Trial of Possession.” Tassa Kay said shooting down the challenge “however, I will allow you to fight in a Circle of Equals with me to show your people that you tried to win honour.” She offered him she saw her personal radio link to Aksel Youngblood was active, he was no doubt monitoring her, but she ignored it, this was something he couldn’t understand a battle between warriors over more than possessions.
“I accept your terms warrior; may no other enter.”
“Seyla” Tassa said accelerating her Mech forwards she fired paired particle cannon blasts from the two torso mounted cannons. The man-made lightning bolts crossed the distance between the two Mechs with one slamming into the Mad Dog’s right leg while the other ripped up the ground beside the Mech. A wave of heat surged through Tassa’s cockpit as her the BattleMech’s heat sinks struggled with her weapons fire Tassa ignored the heat build up and instead turned her Mech to the right firing the Mech’s jump jets launching it into the sky just as a pair of large laser blasts slammed into her Mech’s left arm. The heat from the lasers burned into her seventy-five-ton BattleMech’s arm but she ignored it, there were no weapons there, instead Tassa feathered the engine throttles expertly bringing the Ryoken II down with her heat now lower she fired another pair of particle cannon blasts towards the Mad Dog just as the sixty-ton Mech fired forty long range missiles back at her.
As the flight of forty missiles flew towards her Tassa accelerated the Ryoken II into the fire closing the range between the two Mechs. Missiles slammed against her Mech as she closed on the lighter Mad Dog at range the way the warrior had configured his BattleMech he actually outgunned her at range but as the distance closed between them the weapons would favour her. As the range ticked down, she saw her particle cannons had recharged and she fired again at the Mad Dog just as her enemy fired his lasers again. The armour of her Ryoken II held up under the onslaught but she was glad to see the Mad Dog’s didn’t as one of her particle cannon blasts tore through the armour covering its torso and tore the long-range missile launcher to pieces. The Mad Dog staggered backwards with the loss of the launcher but it didn’t stop the warrior returning fire with another volley of missiles from its remaining launcher most of the missiles missed her still charging Ryoken II but a few hit their target smashing armour on her Mech’s right torso.
“Well done” Tassa commented cutting to the right twisting the Ryoken’s waist to track her target she opened up with both medium lasers mounted there and as soon as the computer gave her a tone the twelve streak short range missiles as well. The heat produced by these weapons was far less than her particle cannons but the damage was not the lasers burned across the Mad Dog’s armour while the streak missiles caused explosions all over the Mech’s left leg and arm which buckled and then broke the large and medium laser there hanging loose away from the OmniMech.
Ravenwater didn’t give up his OmniMech was damaged but not out of the fight as Tassa’s Ryoken II circled he forged forwards unexpectedly and caught her slightly by surprise firing his remaining large and medium laser as well as a flight of long-range missiles into the back of her OmniMech “Stavag!” She shouted angrily firing the Ryoken II’s jump jets she launcher her Mech into the air angling the Mech backwards the seventy-five-ton unconventionally jumped backwards. She fought her instincts allowing the Mech to fall towards the ground she pulled the primary triggers as her Mech came towards the ground sending two particle cannons shots straight into the back of the Mad Dog. At the same time Tassa fired her own Mech’s jump jets one last time countering the falling Mech’s trajectory keeping her Mech standing as it landed on the ground.
The Mad Dog was not as lucky one particle cannon blast tore through the Mad Dog’s right torso vapourizing the armour there blowing through the long-range missile ammunition. The OmniMech’s built in CASE panels blew away from the Mech channeling the blast away from critical components but the ammunition was gone. The second blast tore straight through the back of the Mech punching straight into the OmniMech’s gyroscope destroying it as well. Without the gyro the Mech’s fight was over and the Mad Dog fell forwards giving into the battle with gravity as it slammed into the ground disabled. “MechWarrior Tvedten Ravenwater you are defeated in single battle, I will spare you the embarrassment of returning to your unit following the defeat by a dezgra mercenary and I claim you and your Mech as Isorla, you both belong to me until I decide if you deserve to return to MechWarrior status.” She said opening up the communication channel once more letting the MechWarrior know his fate. She saw that Aksel Youngblood was still waiting to speak to her. “Go ahead Captain.” She said, she was sure he’d be able to tell she was smiling following her personal victory.
“Nice fight, Tassa, the Horses should have known better than to challenge a victor after their battle.” He said she’d almost expected him to try and give her into trouble for her actions but instead he was supportive? Perhaps the time he’d spent with the Kell Hounds and exiled Wolves had done him well, there was hope for Aksel Youngblood. Following the end of the battle the Crescent Hawks completed their loading from Edasich Motors and left the planet soon afterwards. The Union-class DropShip carrying the captured Summoner OmniMechs would go to Freedom while the Crescent Hawks were heading back to Galatea Station.
Meeting Room, SLSS Swartklip Major
Swartklip, Star League Protectorate
Periphery
28th October 3115
The news had filtered into Swartklip that morning that forces of the Stone Spirits had raided Elume, Kwangjong-ni, Ma’anshan and Issaba this morning. Elume’s defenders the First Obsidian Lancers had held as had the forces hired to protect Issaba and Ma’anshan but Kwangjong had fallen to the clan raiders. The lack of Lyran Commonwealth defenders was telling for those in the Swartklip system, which was protected by the Star League Defence Force it was also telling for representatives of Elume, Sweet Water, Canal, Tsarahaven and Howick that as they met onboard the Star League Space Station Swartklip. This fact was further supported as during the meeting the civilian run MS Glomar Explorer, an Explorer-class Mobile Refinery run by the Belters of the Sol system, and two Monolith-class JumpShips filled with supples arrived in the Swartklip system to further support building up the world. The presence of SLDF ground forces and naval forces in the region only added to the sense that the SLDF was supporting the worlds it protected while the Lyran Commonwealth was forgetting them.
Raid in Force
Zanzibar, Tamarind
Wolf Empire
31st October 3115
Lasers and missiles criss-crossed the battlefield as the four Havoc BattleMechs led a group of vehicles towards in a breakout from Zanzibar spaceport. Behind the Havocs came a group of eight Partisan AA Vehicles and a group of R10 Infantry Fighting Vehicles. Each of the vehicles and Mechs were painted in the colours of the First Tamarind Militia as it raided the world of Tamarind taking the Wolf defenders by surprise. The Mechs were painted mostly purple with a red sash that ran from its right shoulder down towards and over the entirety of the left leg while the vehicles were primarily purple with red turrets. Over the days before their two combined arms battalions had been brought to the world right under the Wolves noses aboard cargo DropShips hidden within cargo containers and now they were striking out.
The raid’s objectives were for the ground forces to break free from the spaceport and charge towards the Wolves manufacturing plant at the former Graham-Davies Manufacturing site to the north. The aim of the raid was to destroy the facility in its entirety.
Bursting from the spaceport short range missiles and laser fire from a pair of Havocs turned one of the sentry guard towers into a burning mess as the two light Mechs ran out. Behind them the Partisans opened fire on the Wolves initial reaction forces which was made up of a flight of Red Kite Attack VTOLs. The sight of the Free Worlds League designed VTOL serving Clan Wolf had angered the Tamarind troopers and now they had an opportunity to take them out, from two Partisans paired LBX-class Autocannons filled the air with flak munitions. Each of the four Red Kites took multiple hits as the cluster munitions exploded around them immediately one of the Kites lost power to its right engine as multiple pieces of shrapnel slammed into the VTOL’s thin armour and pulverized the engine unit housed there. As the other engine failed to compensate and the twenty-five-ton craft spun out of control to the ground slamming down hard against the tarmac it exploded. Two of the Red Kites returned fire against the vehicles their nose mounted chemical lasers glowed momentarily as the weapons were loaded with ammunition and then they fired melting armour on a pair of Partisans below more autocannon munitions slammed into the VTOLs even as one of the Partisans exploded open its front armour completely melted away.
From behind the Partisans a flight of long-range missiles followed by a particle cannon blast flew quickly into one of the remaining Red Kits penetrating the aircraft below and behind the forward cockpit the twin attack shattered the control section from the mid-line engine modules. Lasers and then the roar of an Ultra-class autocannon joined the attack as a second Red Kite was torn to pieces in a hail of weapons fire from the leading purple and red coloured Anzu class BattleMech.
The radio channels crackled open as another three sixty-ton Anzu BattleMechs joined the fire “I am Duke Robert Brett-Marik, the true Heir to Tamarind and I am here with my fellow Tamarind citizens in the First Militia to oppose Clan Wolf’s rule over our homeworld.”
“Finally,” the voice a response came as the Free Worlds League’s sensors lit up with contacts “when the Clan Watch said that forces hostile to Clan Wolf’s rein here on Tamarind had arrived, I wished to challenge you immediately but I was cautioned not to. Instead, we have waited for you, waited for you to display your strength and now that you have you will meet the Wolfkin Keshik in battle. I am Galaxy Commander Herbert Kerensky and I will be your end.” The Clan warrior laughed as a Vulture Mk III stood up from its concealed position from the Mech a point of Elementals disembarked from its hull and on either side of it nine other OmniMechs stood up each carrying a point of Elementals. It was clear the Wolves had laid in wait for them to move and they were more than prepared for the attack.
“We will fight for our home and we will win.” Robert Brett-Marik said defiantly targeting the Vulture III with his particle cannon and autocannon which were in range the particle cannon had not fully charged and it sparked against the hull of the heavily armoured Clan OmniMech while the autocannon went wildly wide soaring through the sky past the Mech. With their battle decided the Vulture III returned fire with eighty long range missiles. The missiles arced over the battlefield and blanketed the Anzu in waves battering the heavy BattleMech in waves which exploded all over the armour and the ground beside the Mech. Under such fire Robert struggled to keep his BattleMech standing stepping back under the waves of fire stumbling backwards the Anzu dropping to a knee. Either side of the Anzu the other Free Worlds League troops were under heavy attack from the the other Wolf forces. Bringing his BattleMech back up to his feet Robert saw that the Vulture III was on the move walking towards his position with more long-range missiles arcing over the battlefield towards him. Robert braced the BattleMech for more hits and fired his own long-range missiles in return fire against the Clan Wolf OmniMech. His ten missiles passed the eighty incoming missiles in mid-air and flew towards the Vulture III as the Mech continued to close on his position missiles rained down on his position. A flight of long-range missiles slammed into the top of the Anzu’s head section rattling Robert Brett-Marik’s cockpit, the MechWarrior strapped into his command chair was thrown around the cockpit like a rag doll as he tried to maintain control of his under-fire machine. “Continue to fire! Any unit that can breakout do so and head to targeted plant!” He ordered his troops over the roar of fire inside his cockpit “we must complete this mission or it maybe our last!” He said defiantly at the same time he sent an encrypted message to one of the cargo DropShips located within the spaceport. Moments later he received a message from the DropShip stating his command was understood “our friends will be here soon” he said targeting the charging Vulture III with his autocannon again explosive ammunition battered the enemy Mech with fire.
The plan had never been for this to be a one-way mission for Robert he wished to hurt the Wolves and if possible, liberate Tamarind but there was always a plan to escape. Just beyond Tamarind orbit the second phase of the battle began as the WarShips Sardis, Abbey and Stormos jumped into the system disgorging more than a dozen DropShips and hundreds of aerospace fighters. The majority of the fighters, several DropShips and the WarShips Abbey and Stormos turned to engage the three Wolf Lola IV-class Destroyers which were protecting the shipyards over Tamarind. The Impavido-class Abbey and the Monolisk-class Stormos would be outgunned by the three Wolf vessels but they had a significant advantage in small craft over the defending Wolves. The Sardis with its lighter armour and smaller capital grade weapons arrays remained at long-range providing support and a base for the aerospace fighters to reload should they need it.
Meanwhile several DropShips carrying two ground force regiments hard burned towards Tamarind intent on reinforcing the ground forces. Should they be able to link up the combined firepower had a chance of liberating Tamarind from the Wolves and robbing them of their only shipyard. Unfortunately for the Free Worlds League troops they had discounted the Wolves readiness to protect the system and from the surface rose an entire star of Isegrim-class Assault DropShips along with dozens of aerospace fighters to engage them. In space, the upper atmosphere and on the ground, battle was engaged between the two forces.
Fighting for his life on the ground Robert Brett-Marik cut in his Anzu’s jump jets attempting to jump over the Vulture III which had closed in on him. He fired his autocannon as he jumped targeting the Clan Wolf Mech as he went autocannon rounds exploded all over the Vulture III. Unfortunately for Robert the Clan warrior had at his disposal six extended range medium lasers for close in battle as the Anzu flew over the Vulture III the red laser blasts cut into and then through the knee of the Anzu shattering already damaged armour which had been pocketed by missile blasts the lasers penetrated the armour and caused the knee actuator of the Anzu to critically fail as the jumping Mech began to fall towards the ground. As Robert Brett-Marik’s BattleMech landed the damaged knee actuator collapsed taking most of the lower leg with it the Anzu stumbled forwards and then fell crashing to the ground.
In the cockpit of the Mech Robert Brett-Marik awoke realizing that he had been knocked out by the Anzu’s landing he immediately attempted to bring the Anzu back to its feet and turned looking for Herbert Kerensky’s Vulture III only to see the Clan OmniMech laying on the ground burning. As he looked at the remains of the sixty-ton OmniMech he saw a group of eight Leonidas Battle Armour troops which had attacked the Vulture III when his Anzu had fallen. “Thank you, warriors,” he said quietly as the troopers raised their arms in salute towards him, they had likely saved his life.
Robert glanced across the battlefield and saw that several of the Wolf Mechs had fallen but so had many of his own forces. In his thirty-seven years he had heard stories of huge battles against enemies of his home but he’d rarely been involved in battles larger than battalion strength. Today was different he could see DropShips begin to come in for a landing several of them were heavily damaged. Seeing the DropShips, and the condition of his own BattleMech, Robert realized that today was not the day for the liberation of Tamarind instead he’d be lucky to escape with his life.
In orbit above the planet the WarShip Abbey exploded under fire from the remaining two Wolf Lola IV-class Destroyers. One of the defending Clan vessels had been destroyed by massed fighter attacks but as the fighters ran low on fuel and muntions the tide of the battle had turned back towards that of the defenders. From the ground DropShips rose from the ground fighting their way clear of the planet as they retreated enmasse from the battlefield onboard one of the DropShips Duke Robert Brett-Marik stood defeated in battle by the Wolves but still alive and ready to fight another day.
The Battle for Tamarind was over with a stalemate the Wolves continued to hold the world and its critical shipyards as well as the production facilities it had built on the surface. The Free Worlds League forces had proven they could battle the Wolves on the surface of Tamarind but they would need more firepower before they were able to retake the planet. As the DropShips escaped to their waiting WarShips before escaping the system ending the Free Worlds League assault on Wolf territory, until another day. How the Wolves would react to the attack was anyone’s guess but today the battle was over.
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Nice job DC!
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Cracking update.
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FINALLY!!
Baby Support Unit, Ecol City Hospital
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
1st November 3115
Sitting in his wife’s room in the Ecol City Hospital’s Baby Unit Morgan Christifori watched the Lyran News Network broadcast as the Grey Death Legion Mercenary Regiment was given a hero’s welcome on Tharkad by the population. The units BattleMechs, armoured vehicles, battle armour and infantry paraded through the capital after the mercenaries had spent three months behind enemy lines in the Jade Falcon and Hell’s Horses OZs conducting sabotage operations. The reports Morgan had read suggested the Grey Death had lost at least a third of their numbers in the battles but they had been victorious in the eyes of the Lyran people. Beside him in his cot Adrianna Katya Christifori, his first-born child, slept quietly beside her mother Marika today was a good day for him and the Lyran Commonwealth.
Scout mission
Las Tunes, Outworlds Wastes
Periphery
9th November 3115
For the last month the Thermo Police had been deployed to several worlds scouting along the Raven Alliances periphery border searching out worlds that were once part of the Outworlds Alliance for the most part they had found dead worlds long forgotten following the conflicts which had befallen the Inner Sphere following the fall of the First Star League.
Inside his Warhammer IIC8 MechWarrior Karl of the Kanter Bloodhouse liked one thing about his deployment with the Thermo Police he was in his BattleMech otherwise the assignment had been painfully boring. He had hopes of winning a Bloodname and he wasn’t going to do that scouting out worlds on the border, he needed to do something that would see him recognized. Up ahead on his sensors he detected energy signatures. “One-Adam-One, this is One-Adam-Two, I have energy signatures ahead” he transmitted to Captain Alec Oak who commanded the command Star which had been deployed here to Las Tunes to collect a member of the unit who had been here for sometime meeting local settlements.
“Investigate but if you encounter hostiles hold your range until we can all support, Understood?”
“Aff” Karl said rolling his eyes Alec Oak was trying to understand the Clan ways but he would soon learn. Throttling the Warhammer IIC8 forwards Karl moved his BattleMech into range of the settlement which was made up of a series of small buildings many of which looked like they were centuries old and some that were partially standing. Las Tunes was a nice enough world but without the support from outside to provide additional resources and without heavy industry of their own some of the world’s buildings were showing their age. As he closed his BattleMech’s sensors picked up several low range power signals but one signature stood out the unmistakable signature of a BattleMech. Karl reached over to key his communications system to inform Oak but had a second though alone he could take on any BattleMech in combat and win the glory needed to prove he deserved a Bloodname.
Moving in on the signature he spotted the other BattleMech and immediately halted trying to work out what he was seeing ahead of him just inside weapons range stood an unusual looking BattleMech standing inside a metal cage as infantry soldiers all around it fired flamethrowers onto it. Karl’s Warhammer IIC8’s sensors confirmed a Raven Alliance identification signature coming from the BattleMech. “Unidentified Raven Alliance BattleMech this is One-Adam-Two, identify yourself and do you need assistance, Quiaff?” He asked challenging the MechWarrior who stood still in the cage being fire upon.
“This is One-Adam-Two, this is Three-Adam-Two, negative I do not need your assistance.” The MechWarrior responded the callsign used was for the missing Raven Alliance MechWarrior Alisan Nostra, the great-granddaughter of Kotori Nostra. “You can close on my position Raven but keep your weapons down no need to absolutely scare these people, Understood?”
“Aff” Karl responded moving in on Alisan’s position he could see her BattleMech was no larger than twenty-five tons it looked like it carried a spear in one arm, an autocannon in the other arm and a couple of machine guns in the torso. His Mech’s warbook identified it as a CattleMaster IIC with a secondary name listed as the Hunter IIC. “What exactly are you doing?” He asked seeing the people around the pit slow their firing on her Hunter IIC as it stood in a small pool of water.
“This is a challenge I have been given by the locals known as a Trial of Fire if I can survive this trial then the locals will trust me.” She explained cheerfully.
“Your BattleMech’s heat sinks will easily absorb their fire. You know this?” He pointed out due to the advanced technology used on the BattleMech the infantry had little to no chance of damaging her Mech.
“Affirmative” she responded “I’m winning their trust Raven, sometimes you have to take the time for people to trust you. Are the rest of your lance nearby?”
“Affirmative, my starmates are searching for you.”
“Good call them in.” She said for the next thirty minutes Karl watched as the Hunter IIC was burned by the locals occasionally Alisan would move the Mech around a little to make it look like she was looking to escape but remained in the pool of water using it to enhance her heat sink capacity. Around the caged area the rest of Karl’s star arrived further adding to the mystique that the Raven Alliance force held over the locals.
Once the trial was over they treated the visitors to the very best of meals where Karl got to meet Alisan Nostra. She was approximately Karl’s age, short in height with long hair which was tied back and athletically built, she wore little in the way of a uniform and instead was dressed in a fur jacket which she claimed to have made herself while out in the wilderness. She was like no MechWarrior he’d ever met. After the meal the locals then showed them to their “Shrine of the Past” half buried to the north of the settlement they found an ancient Confederate-class DropShip which had taken some of the original inhabitants to the world. While the DropShip was generally in good condition it would never fly again and the fusion reactor had begun to degrade leading to some radiation leakage while it was at a level lower than many battlefields registered after a large battle it was still dangerous.
Using the HPG onboard their own DropShip Headquarters Captain Alec Oak called for a support engineering team to attend and secure the reactor to protect the locals from further harm. Because it was Alisan’s trial that had won the locals trust the Thermo Police remained on the world for a further week while Raven Alliance specialists made the DropShip safe. As a result of this extra help and time spent with the locals told them stories of another recent visit by “Metal Gods” who had caused damage to one of the worlds other settlements killing dozens of the people who lived there. While Karl did not understand why they cared for this world which was outwith their own realm and did not see how this would help him gain a Bloodname the prospect of meeting these “Metal Gods” who had preyed on the innocent interested him greatly.
Solaris Racing Event
Slanotov Industrial Zone
Solaris VII, Independent Clan Space
18th November 3115
“Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, I am Rick de Graff and I am here today to bring you the latest event in the Solaris Racing League at the Slanotov Industrial Zone! Even as Clan Wolf continues its offensive against the Free Worlds League and Clan Lynx have reportedly invaded the Draconis Combine the racing is all that matters here on Solaris!” The announcer said “following our last event at Dunnet Forest the league standings are as follows. Jonnie Mjalby leads the standings on eighteen points, Joe Normandn and Zhao Jian-guo are close behind on sixteen points, Irene Steele follows on eleven points after her crash at Dunnet Forest just in touching distance to the leaders.” He said “due to her DNF in the last round Steele will be going first today flying a new substitute aircraft a Striking Cobra which she aquired following the race at Dunnet Forest, good luck to her.”
Listening to the announcer Irene Steele sat in the pilot’s chair of the Striking Cobra the twenty-ton turbine driven aircraft she’d found it was far different to her jet engined Guardian. The cockpit was compact but comfortable but more primitive than the Guardian still it had all the controls and switches as you’d expect from this type of aircraft. She’d flown the aircraft twice since she’d left the hospital where Jonnie had given her the aircraft first around the course at San Bardo Canyon and then at a practice run here at the burnt out Slanotov Industrial Zone.
While the town of Slanotov as a settlement was inhabited the Industrial Zone had become a victim of the Succession Wars with most of the building’s now little more than ruins. For the most part the area was used by MechWarriors practicing their moves before going into the arenas on Solaris or by mercenary units training before travelling off world. Due to the built-up nature of the area most of the spectator stands were crammed into stands which had been wedged between buildings and would be using tri-vid screens to follow the action.
“Ladies and gentlemen, without further from me I turn the action over to Irene Steele, good luck racer!” De Graff said and Irene didn’t need further encouragement.
Diving her aircraft away from Interstate 3 she slipped the small Striking Cobra down between two buildings building up speed and as her confidence in the aircraft grew. On each wingtip there was an SRM-4 launcher filled with dummy rounds each pod provided her with a guide for how close she could get to the buildings. The fighter turned tighter than her old Guardian did and she was able to fly around the ruined building in a tight circle before she needed to dive under Interstate 3.
The fighter was under Interstate 3 for only a few seconds slipping between the road’s support pylons before immediately rising way from the ground between two more ruined buildings. Another tight diviving turn hit Irene with the g-forces as her Striking Cobra dived down over Canal Pregolya which ran through the course. As she crossed over the water at less than ten metres in height, she dodged the Striking Cobra between two parked barges before pulling up in between more buildings. She breathed deeply as her aircraft levelled out and the g-forces eased before she pushed the twenty-ton aircraft again under another one of Interstate 3’s roadways heading into an area filled with various disused oil storage containers maintaining an altitude of twenty-three metres Irene was happy with her time so far as she moved into the next section.
This section was made up of a maze of pipes, chimneys, towers and oil drums that Irene expertly dodged through before making a hairpin turn which would take her towards the Port Authority and Pregolya Tunnel the speed and height she had kept through the section would win her much needed additional points. The road tunnel was thankfully closed to road traffic today and was wide enough for her to fly through it with the wings of the small craft level as it took her under the Canal of the same name and out the other side into more buildings.
Rising from the tunnel she followed a lazy figure of eight around two of the dark grey buildings and she was away from them heading back towards the Interstate Highway that bisected the course. Before she reached it, she turned tightly to the right between the buildings then right again tipping her craft up onto its wing as she split between buildings as fast as she dared finally, she turned towards the last area of the course the only open area and the only place with live spectators the creatively named central park. A wide arc over the Canal Pregolya past the spectators Irene Steele threw her craft into a couple of barrel rolls to make the crowd below happy before turning over the Canal towards the finish point. She hit maximum throttle and threw her craft over the finish line hoping that her fancy flying and speed had done enough.
Following Steele came the other six racers of the racing league with Koskova Yartseva doing enough in one of the slowest aircraft to win the race in time and in spectator points. As he’d flown with great skill and style to prove you didn’t need the fastest aircraft to win the race. Irene ended up placing second which given she was in a new aircraft was a spectacular result for her, it earned her third place overall and earned her enough credits to pay off Jonnie Mjalby for the plane. Jonnie himself had placed only fourth in Slanotov his bigger aircraft unable to fit between the oil containers or under the smallest of the river bridges had cost him greatly in the race standings.
The fourth place was enough however for Jonnie Mjalby to be crowned the first champion of the Solaris Racing League. With the League proving itself to be a commercial and spectator success. The sport had also brought up several questions due to the variety of aircraft employed and the different ways that points had been scored. While it was unquestioned whether another year of events would follow already organisers and racers were thinking up new ways to keep the spectators interested and the racing fair… well as fair as Solaris ever got.
Raiding party
Green Hills, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
21st November 3115
As a defending Arbiter SecurityMech fell to her particle cannon Amanda Cavalcanti felt sorry for the MechWarrior she had defeated in her far older but still superior Griffin she remembered when she was the one in an inferior BattleMech it wasn’t a nice feeling but it was the way of the universe she thought as the smaller Arbiter lay still on the ground its pilot either unconscious or dead had not ejected from the Mech.
This was her third raid with McCoy’s Malcontents and so far the Mercenary/Pirate group had proven true to their word in not targeting civilian forces but instead aiming for military targets. Moving alongside her she saw the five strong squad of Ravager Battle Armoured troopers moving in on the Arbiter activating her communications she raised the lead trooper “Leading Gunnner if the pilot lives capture them alive.” She said
“Understood MechWarrior, we will do as you ask.” Eva Marocchino the leader of the Ravager Squad responded. Behind the Ravagers came the unit’s two UrbanMech MC’s which had accompanied them on this raid. Together the three Mechs and the Ravagers had fallen into a sub-unit of the Malcontents supporting Schuyler McCoy’s command lance in their raids taking on the support assets of ann enemy unit while McCoy’s unit took on the main enemy.
Right now, they were assaulting Green Hills support base while McCoy engaged the main militia force. With the Ravagers and several Prime Movers moving into the area to salvage what they could from the base Amanda Cavalcanti moved into the base proper. The base was made up of a few buildings which were single story accommodation blocks and a single larger hanger structure as she crossed the main assembly yard an open area between the accommodation blocks and hanger only for her BattleMech to be struck by a large autocannon blast that had come from the hanger. Turning she could barely believe what she was seeing a lumbering BattleMech which looked like a sixty-five-ton Thunderbolt but it was streaming thick black smoke from two funnels which were attached to the BattleMech internal combustion engine. Amanda was stunned for a moment, despite the age of her old Griffin it at least still had a fusion engine powering it, internal combustion engines were generally only mounted on the smallest and most primitive of Mechs.
Twisting her Mech’s torso Amanda hit the the Thunderbolt with her Mech’s particle cannon. The man-made lightning blast briefly connected the two BattleMechs before exploding across the Thunderbolt’s torso. The blast threw off the Thunderbolt’s return fire from two Medium Range Missile launchers mounted on the Mech’s opposite shoulder. Moving and firing Amanda hit out at the Thunderbolt again with her Mech’s particle cannon adding her Mech’s two Rocket Launchers to the attack showering the Thunderbolt with thirty rockets. Only about half of the rockets struck home, with the rest tearing up the parade ground, but those that struck were enough to cause damage all over the enemy Mech the pilot staggered and the autocannon shot they had been lining up slammed into the ground in-front of the Mech tearing up the ground but causing no further damage. Amanda used the pilot’s distraction to close on the enemy Mech raising both of her Griffin’s arms she opened fire with everything she had left. Her particle cannon tore through the Thunderbolt’s right torso causing a structural failure which left the autocannon right arm hanging loose inoperative. The Griffin’s machine guns and lasers caused further damage to the torso striking off the autocannon’s ammunition bay causing a huge internal explosion in the BattleMech. The ammunition explosion that close to the Thunderbolt’s internal combustion engine caused a catastrophic explosion which consumed the BattleMech in a fiery explosion which sent parts of the Mech all across the torn-up landscape of the base.
Behind the Thunderbolt came another Mech leaving the hanger on her Griffin’s sensors Amanda saw four of the Ravager suits had come to investigate the fight which had just occurred. “Hold your fire.” She ordered using her Mech’s external speakers and communication system at the same time. “MechWarrior that Mech isn’t built for a battle do not make us do anything. If you surrender you will be treated fairly.” She said looking at the light Fwltur SalvageMech. “Don’t make me kill you, stand down and take that Mech back inside.” She said seeing a group of infantry soldiers moving out of the hanger to support the Fwltur, looking at them she could see they were a collection of techs who had armed themselves to take on the pirate force, she made them retreat by hitting the ground with a burst of machine gun and laser fire killing none of the infantry but making it no question that they would be facing death to come out of the hanger again. “No more chances, all of you stand down!” Amanda snapped not wanting to murder the techs and the unarmed Fwltur but making them understand she would of she needed to.
Around the Fwltur the Ravagers moved into flanking positions just as the fifth Ravager joined them with the Arbiter pilot in tow her hands tied but alive and well. Seeing their comrade still alive and captured broke the Fwltur pilot’s will to fight and the Mech stood down from its fighting stance walking backwards into the hanger. With the Mech surrendered the armed techs surrendered as well by the time the rest of the Malcontents arrived the base was entirely in their hands. Schuyler McCoy took the Fwltur as battlefield salvage and left the captured soldiers and techs in the base they had defeated the planet’s defences, they didn’t need the prisoners, from the planet the Malcontents salvaged several weapons from the defeated milita. Schuyler also designated several pieces of farm equipment from the planet as salvage as well for use on Whittington, true to his word the Malcontents did not target any of the civilian settlements other than to take farming equipment with no serious injuries to the population. For her efforts on Green Hills and in other battles McCoy promised Amanda Cavacanti that he’d instruct Whittington’s techs to upgrade the ancient Griffin she’d made her own.
Clan Snow Raven Hall
Hall of the Clans, City of Andrey
Tukayyid, Independent Clan Territory
30th November 3115
While Clan Nova Cat had four stars worth of WarShips and their own production facilities, they lacked the experience of building Battleships and carriers. This lack of capacity had hurt the Nova Cats in their recent conflict with the Federated Suns which had a fleet stacked with Battleships and carriers. To fix this lack of capacity the Nova Cats contract Clan Snow Raven for assistance. The Ravens had concentrated on building WarShips for the majority of the Clan’s existence often with other branches of the Clan losing out.
In exchange for natural resources and a steady stream of front-line Nova Cat OmniMechs built for the Snow Ravens the Raven leadership agree to build four new WarShips for the Nova Cats. One each of the Battleship classes Nightlord II and Arbitration along with two Conqueror-class Battle-cruisers which would be used to reinforce the Nova Cats Cruiser heavy navy.
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Good to see an update!
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Good to see you back at this DC, good update.
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One small screw up on my part... normally at the end of every year I post all active units, warships and a map saying what's going on in the Inner Sphere. (I still will)
But because I've jumped into 3116 and I'm half way through the next month's update the active units and the like will come after the January 3116 update. I normally go through the production database before I jump forwards but I've been enjoying writing and I forgot... it won't be that out of date... just a few worlds changing hands in January... like a dozen or so changing hands... nothing major honest O:-) :thumbsup:
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Ending 3115 - as I stated before I've already ran into 3116 so I'll post the update for January 3116 and then post the updated map and active units/warships documents. This update is very Clan centric... Hope you enjoy.
Dome 43, Substructure 9
Hellgate, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
17th December 3115
Many of the Clan Homeworlds were harsh places to live and they had been colonized purely because the Star League Army in Exile had needed space for its population and needed the resources available in the systems. Hellgate was one of those worlds which had a population only because the Clans could exploit the germanium deposits which were located throughout the system. During the Clans dominance of the Homeworlds Clan Snow Raven had commanded all authority on the world for centuries with only a couple of other Clans gaining a small foothold in the system. Following the evacuation of the Ravens from the Homeworlds the Society had quickly gained dominance over the system and its population which were huddled in domes abandoned by the Ravens quickly turned their loyalties to the Society.
Fortunately for the remaining Clans some of the population still remained loyal to the structures which had led the world and hated what the Society represented and that opened up opportunities for the Blood Spirits and Goliath Scorpions. The Blood Spirits did most of the heavy lifting in the resistance battle against Society but it was time for the Goliath Scorpions to do their duty. Star Colonel Ezell Djerassi was older than most warriors in the Clan and he had volunteered for this mission, it was a suicide mission, he wanted to die as a warrior all of the others in his command had agreed to the price as well. Should fail they would be dead the Society wouldn’t be looking to taking prisoners and even if they succeed in their mission there was no DropShip waiting to evacuate them, they would be stranded in this dome with only the tainted atmosphere outside. Unfortunately, in an effort to gain retribution against the Clans the Society would likely vent the dome to ensure they all died all of his twenty-five warriors accepted that should they be victorious then they would pick another target and carry on until the last of them were dead. There were almost as many volunteers who had picked up a rifle to support them, those that had already betrayed the Society to help them get onto this world, he had cautioned them all that they should be ready to die when the time came.
“All units be ready” he communicated using his star’s dedicated channel to talk to the entire unit. It was a risk for them to speak but he had to take a chance. The strike force was deployed in several buildings near a main access route to the centre of town. The multi-story office buildings and accommodation had for the most part been abandoned when the Snow Ravens left the homeworlds but there were some people still there who would be unfortunate collateral damage. It wasn’t Ezell’s job to safeguard the civilians in the area only to kill members of the society.
The Society convoy moved onto the end of the street a single Septicemia OmniMech led several ground vehicles onto the road. Walking alongside one of the vehicles stood a Cephalus OmniMech while a Sprite and two Hobgoblin ultra-class ProtoMechs rounded out the escort.
“Targets in sight, the civilian vehicles are our primary” Ezell said flexing his right hand inside his Surat Battle Armour suit Ezell waited around him hidden in the buildings and on the ground in the area his people laid in wait. Trying to gain more information he zoomed in on the targets and saw one piece of detail which was important for this plan to work. “The Cephalus is in its primary configuration, no missiles on the vehicles!” He warned seeing no weapons on the Mech the pilot was there simply to defend the vehicles. “Target the Septicemia with all our missiles.” He commanded “everyone else converges on the vehicles before the ProtoMechs can react!”
The change in orders was coming late but each of his warriors had served for more than a dozen years and they all knew how to adapt; it was how they had survived this long. As the Septicemia stepped into the kill zone the Clansmen waited for his command. “IN THE NAME OF KERENSKY!” Ezell screamed at the top of his lungs smashing his Surat out of the building he’d been hidden in. The Surat had been built in the Inner Sphere originally, it had been purchased or captured and taken back to the homeworlds as Isorla. The Goliath Scorpions had armed it with a Heavy Small Laser and Ezell was a deadly shot with it, as soon as he was clear from the building, he triggered the weapon targeting one of the ground cars near the Cephalus burning a hole through the front driver door of the vehicle disabling it at least temporarily. Off to his right the Septicemia pilot reacted to the attack twisting their Mech’s torso to the left and eight machine guns opened up together in fire spraying the building with streams of led. Many of the volunteers who had stepped up to support the Scorpions were cut down in a hail of fire. Two of the Septicemia’s Plasma Cannons targeted the building attempting to burn it down around the remaining Scorpions who were inside but as it fired the remaining missile armed Scorpions targeted the medium OmniMech with half a dozen inferno tipped short range missiles firing from different directions and elevations the pilot had no chance of avoiding them all and at least four of the missiles struck home. The anti-armour warheads on each missile was armed with napalm-like inferno jelly which exploded moments before hitting their targets covering the OmniMech in fire.
“While that murder monster is distracted target the vehicles!” Ezell ordered as a pair of troopers ran past him each was armoured in in Resgate Power Armour which was normally used by emergency services but had been dragooned into service to assist the Clans. Both were armed with heavy pulse rifles and they blazed away with their weapons at the vehicles before being struck down by a hair of long-range missiles from the Sprite ProtoMech. “We do not have long” he said jumping his suit up onto the top of a waiting vehicle he punched out with the battle claw encased left arm punching a hole in the top of the vehicle before bathing the inside of the vehicle with heavy laser and small arms fire. All around them troopers were dying the still on fire Septicemia continued to fire its machine guns wildly while the Cephalus lacking weapons or arms attempted to stand on the infantry troopers.
Another shock wave of explosions struck the Septicemia as another salvo of inferno missiles were fired down on the stricken OmniMech causing even more fire and heat build up onboard the OmniMech. Inside the fifty-five-ton OmniMech its machine gun and plasma cannon rounds cooked off under the huge heat build-up and exploded. The OmniMechs specially built chassis attempted to vent the explosion away from the OmniMech’s critical systems but there was simply too much damage and fire caused by the ten inferno missiles which had struck it. The Septicemia pilot attempted to keep their OmniMech standing but there was little they could do Ezell couldn’t imagine the heat onboard the Mech as it staggered across the street-turned-battlefield into the same building Ezell had hidden in and exploded as its fusion engine let go.
A fusion engine expoding was not like a nuclear bomb, despite what many civilians thought, instead it was more like a serious overload. It was easily strong enough to damage armour plate on units too close to the explosion or kill anyone unlucky enough to be in the blast radius. It was also strong enough to damage a building. As the explosion rippled through the building above shattering the glass façade of that building and every other nearby showing the battlefield in glass and parts of the building as they rained down on top of them.
“Anyone still standing continue to target the vehicles!” Ezell shouted as class showered his suit the glass was no danger to him but deadly to any of the remaining infantry. “Anyone with missiles target the ProtoMechs hold them back!” He said as another volley of missiles flew in from the three ProtoMechs. “They should have closed on us!” Ezell commented although the Sprite was designed to support the two lighter Hobgoblins could have done serious damage in closer Ezell guessed their attacks on the Septicemia had killed their commander which would explain the hesitation.
Taking advantage of their lack of action and the Cephalus inability to deal ranged damage he jumped his Surat from vehicle to vehicle using his suit’s jump jets landing on another vehicle he repeated his tactic punching the roof then reaching in with his weapon arm. He felt a shotgun blasting back against his Surat but there was no threat of damage from it and Ezell continued to fire his weapons into the vehicle.
“Osteon!” Someone shouted Ezell glanced up, at his HUD and saw the OmniMech which had arrived to support the three ProtoMechs which was the last thing he did. The Osteon was an assault class OmniMech and it bathed the battlefield in heavy pulse laser fire. One of the bursts slammed into Ezell’s Surat overwhelming the armour which had protected him until now. The energy pulse blast entered his suit and burned through his body in half a dozen places at once killing him instantly.
With the Osteon’s arrival the battle was over the eighty-five-ton machine marched into the middle of the street gunning down Goliath Scorpion soldiers and civilians alike in a ferocious display of firepower. Dozens of on lookers were caught in the rampage of destruction laid down by the Osteon as it secured the area along with the three ProtoMechs which now with leadership returned were also making up for their lackluster performance. The battle was over but the attack had achieved its objectives and a leading bio-chemist working for the Society was dead. In the coming days a purge of the habitation dome began with dozens lined up and shot by Society enforcers, they stopped short of venting the dome completely but the message had been sent.
Council of the Clans
Hall of the Clans, City of Andrey
Tukayyid, Clan Territory Inner Sphere
28th December 3115
Another Council of the Clan leadership had begun on Tukayyid in the Hall of the Clans with at least one Khan from each of the ten member Clans present arranged in a circle with the Loremaster of the Clans included in their own place. The room was large enough that should the Council ever expand then the circle could grow without a second circle needing to form. On the furthest wall of the room the flags of twenty Clans hung, nineteen original Clans and one newly formed one Clan Lynx. The twentieth original Clan, the not-named Clan’s flag was missing from the room entirely. Other than the tables and the flags the only other thing in the room was a holotank in the middle of the tables as it was presently not in use it just looked like any of the other tables.
The more the Clans met on Tukayyid the more it felt like a home for the Council, at least until the Clans returned to Terra. Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward stood at her table dressed in the ceremonial leathers of her parent Wolf Clan. “I am Sandra Ward, Loremaster of the Clans, I call today's council into session. Clan Sea Fox has the floor.” She said from Sea Fox stand Khan Evangeline Clarke stood, she too wore the ceremonial uniform of the Sea Fox Clan which was a dark navy jumpsuit with highlights across the torso and arm of Sea Fox fur.
“I am Khan Evangeline Clarke the leader of Clan Sea Fox.” She began formally “and today I bring something which effects us all.” She said glancing around the room “when the Clans were formed there were twenty of us, which the Founder created from the Great Father’s Star League army. Now there are ten of us, ten Clans remain half of our original number. Those Clans that have fallen were not strong enough to remain part of our number, but the Founder left the door open for new Clans to join the fold which we have embraced by welcoming Clan Lynx and allowing the reformed Clan Fire Mandrill to rejoin this council.” She said glancing around the room, most members of the council scoffed at those Clans that had fallen others within the council still looked down on the Lynx and Fire Mandills for their junior status in the council. “Today, I bring information to this Council of a rise of another Clan.” She said wondering how many others had heard of what she was about to mention. “Clan Smoke Jaguar has been reborn inside the Free Worlds League.”
“Clan Smoke Jaguar…” Jana Pryde began pausing for a moment before speaking “Clan Smoke Jaguar died at the hands of the Inner Sphere, they are not worthy of a place in this Council.”
“Clan Smoke Jaguar survived when everyone else wrote them off.” Clarke said “elements of their Clan have settled in the Free Worlds League and their Clan has begun to flourish. Clan Sea Fox have been in direct contact with them and traded with them. We were treated as Clansmen should be and they fought several trials against my warriors all of them fought as we would expect with honour.”
“You said they are within the Free Worlds League? The hold no territory of their own?” Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats asked, he was the oldest Khan present but his voice was strong and he was ready to meet any challengers. The Nova Cats and Smoke Jaguars had a troubled past but Rosse was known as a fair individual.
“Aff, they presently command the District of Lesnovo within the Free Worlds League. Khan Petra Furey, a freeborn of a member of the Furey Bloodhouse, has risen to command the area from within the structures that governs the Free Worlds League.” Clarke explained
“So, they are subservient to barbarians.” Jana Pryde pointed out.
“I will not answer for the Smoke Jagaurs, nor their actions since their fall.” She answered refusing to speak for the Clan. “I only wish to make this council aware that their forces exist. If we have questions, they should be asked to the Smoke Jaguar Clan, Quiaff?” She asked calling on any of them to challenge her. Clarke noted that none of the members of the council challenged her on her use of the term Clan to describe these descendants of the Smoke Jaguars.
“I believe that we should send a fact-finding mission.” The Snow Raven Khan Vir Sukhanov suggested. “Already we have accepted that the Ghost Bear, Sea Fox, Fire Mandrill and Snow Raven Clans are part of this Council and yet have… different relationships with the Inner Sphere than others. It would appear that the Smoke Jaguars have found their own way to survival and are flourishing as the Founder desired for each of his Clans.”
“And what will be learned that a group of freebirths now believe that they are a Clan, so we will make them a Clan? I say Neg, they may be Clan in their own minds but they did not come from us.” Jana Pryde said angrily around the table the Hell’s Horses leaders and Wolf leaders nodded in agreement, all three still believed that the Inner Sphere should be ruled by the Clans not worked with. The Nova Cat, Lynx and Coyote leaders remained passive on the subject.
“Clan Sea Fox traded iron-womb technology to the Jaguars.” Clarke said lighting the fire that could not be extinguished. Already my Watch have confirmed the Jaguars are creating new genetic legacies for their future warriors.”
“Technology and genes of free----births… mean nothing.” Khan Sepp Heller of Clan Coyote said simply entering the debate. The mechanical screech of his artificial voice box breaking through the growing argument.
“We all originally came from the genes of freebirths.” Khan Angela Bekker of the Ghost Bears said she was a short woman with her hair slowly turning grey as she aged. “I support Khan Sukhanov’s suggestion Loremaster of the Clans the Ebon Guard is neutral within our numbers, I propose we send a Cluster to investigate.”
“The warriors of the Ebon Guard are capable of such a task.” Ward confirmed “but this Council not the Ebon Guard speak for us. I will only command the Ebon Guard to travel to meet these Smoke Jaguars on the order of this Council.”
“I vote we send them.” Clarke said standing at her desk to support the idea. “And I will offer to provide a trade JumpShip circuit through the Inner Sphere to bring the Ebon Guard to their destination.”
“As do I” Vir Sukhanov agreed also standing, with two votes the issue now would be vote on by all of the present Khans.”
“I vote no. If and I stress the word IF they are ever to join us it should be by their own choice and their own feats. Not because we invite them.” Khan Jana Pryde stated angrily.
“I agree with the Falcons, no.” Khan Teresia Cooper of the Hell’s Horses stated without expanding further the Elemental warrior refused to stand remaining seated at her desk.
“I vote yes, my Clan has flourished in the Rim Collection and yearly my people are becoming the dominant force on the Lyran Periphery.” Khan Jordan Truscott the leader of the Fire Mandrills said. “It would appear the Smoke Jaguars are doing the same, we should acknowledge their survival…”
“My Clan barely acknowledges your existence.” Khan Cade Kell of Clan Wolf said dismissing Truscott’s comments. The Fire Mandrills had been accepted into this council simply because they were the last members of Clan Fire Mandrill and they had the last elements of the Serpent Clans as well, after the destruction wrought on the Clans by the Serpents attack seeing the destruction of yet more Clansmen by refusing them council did not seem right.
Kell himself had once been on the outside of this council in a Clan which was formed outside the Founders plans. He had been born as a Trueborn to Clan Wolf (in-Exile) and was the first of Phelan Kell’s descendants to claim the Bloodname, he understood some of what the Smoke Jaguars may be feeling but also he saw the benefits of having them back in the fold. “I vote yes” he said glancing at Jana Pryde with a smirk he knew his Clan was in the premier spot to strike at Terra when the time came having a Smoke Jaguar Clan at his back taking over the Free Worlds League could potentially make that easier for the Wolves.
“I also vote yes” Khan Canin Rosse said standing surprising many who had thought the Nova Cats would stand to keep their once rivals away from the council. “None of us are what we were in the past.”
“I also vote… yes” Sepp Heller said joining the yes votes. With six votes to three the votes were cast for an expedition to be sent to the Smoke Jaguars.”
“I have six Clusters of warriors based on Tukayyid, they will trial and a Cluster will be sent to meet with the Smoke Jaguars as is the will of this council.” Sandra Ward announced once the vote had been tallied. “Are there any other votes to be called today?” Until now Jordan Truscott of the Fire Mandrills had been tempted to mention the Stone Spirits in the periphery and how they desired to return to the fold as well, but today was not the day for that call and instead he kept his own council.
In the coming two weeks further meetings would be held between the Clan leaders and Trials would be fought between the various Clans present. In an act of vengeance against the Jade Falcons both Clan Lynx and Fire Mandrill launched harvest Trials against the Jade Falcons with the Lynx Clan absorbing an entire cluster of warriors from the Jade Falcons. Trade deals and other agreements were made between the Clans ensuring they all knew where the others stood. While the current Council of the Clans was not a war council it did mean that all of the Clans remained on the same sheet of paper understanding where each stood.
New Years Eve Trials of Position
Clan Wolf Territory, City of Skupo
Tukayyid, Clan Territory Inner Sphere
31st December 3115
In the heart of the City of Skapo Clan Wolf warriors gathered for a Trial of Position. The cities original inhabitants had been evacuated before the Battle of Tukayyid in 3052 and since then had barely returned, most not wishing to live on the front-lines facing the Clans. When the system had been seized by the Rasalhague Dominion some ex-patriots from the old Free Rasalhague Republic had moved onto the worlds and taken up residency in what remained of the north quarter of Skupo. When the world had been made an Independent Territory of the Clans more civilian castes from various different Clans had settled in the city. In the centre of the city where the old City Hall had once stood, before Clan Wolf razed it to the ground following the loss of the Battle of Tukayyid, the building’s foundations were all that remained and these now played host to an unaugmented Trial of Position held by Clan Wolf. During the Battle of Tukayyid the city had been one of the Wolves two targets and it had been claimed by the Clan so any Trials held here were special to the Wolves and would be remembered.
In a brutal hand-to-hand battle between two Cluster commanders Alaric Ward, the commander of the Ninth Wolf Guard Cluster stood bloodied and bruised but victorious over the body of Star Colonel Ivan Ward of the 328th Assault Cluster. In the battle the older Ivan Ward had refused to yield preferring to die in battle against another member of his Bloodhouse than remain as a Star Colonel leading to Alaric being forced to kill him. Now in Galaxy Commander Alaric Ward would lead all of the Wolves Snarling Wolves Galaxy against the Star League Protectorate in the next round of battles which would begin soon.
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3116
McKenna Palace
City of McKenna, McKenna
District of McKenna, Free Worlds League
3rd January 3116
Sat on the throne of McKenna in the room once occupied by her father Duchess Saadia Cameron-Jones was dressed in a Marik purple gown which was lined around the edges with a thick black strip of mourning. Her make up was likewise muted and with no colour visible against her dark skin while her blonde hair was tied back away from her face as she turned to face the waiting Tri-vid camera. Beside her to one side stood her daughters twenty-two-year-old Captain Anita Cameron-Jones and sixteen-year-old Rene Cameron-Jones missing was her twenty-year-old son Caden Cameron-Jones who was presently with his regiment the First Cameron-Jones House Guard on Regulus. She had asked him to travel to McKenna but he had refused and said his place was with his regiment she would miss her son but today needed to happen for her own sanity as well as the safety of her daughters.
“People of the Free Worlds League I am Duchess Saadia Cheynov, the Duchess of McKenna” she announced she’d kept this change a secret from everyone including her closest advisors and children for maximum impact. “My father was Felipe Cheynov the true Duke of McKenna.” She said pausing to allow that to sink in for a moment before speaking again. She knew her worlds would be carried across McKenna live and it would reach the other worlds of the Free Worlds League over the next few days. It would be weeks before her words crossed the Inner Sphere but soon everyone would know of this change. “Today for the good of my people and for my children I am announcing my divorce from Duke Lester Cameron-Jones and the secession of the McKenna system from the District of Regulus effective immediately. Lester Cameron-Jones is an evil man who murdered my father when his forces invaded the world of McKenna, he was not a casualty of war as my husband reported to the people. He was murdered and placed in rigged-BattleMech which exploded under him.” She said pausing again she knew the editors would be playing the video clip of two men dragging her father’s already dead body into his BattleMaster before leaving him onboard the powering up assault Mech. Moments later two Wasp BattleMechs burst into the courtyard and sprayed the BattleMaster with machine gun fire but instead of returning fire the BattleMaster exploded from within as charges placed throughout the Mech exploded in a what was supposed to look like a freak ammunition explosion.
“I hav kept my silence for the sake of my children and for the people of McKenna who Lester threatened with harsh treatment should I not cooperate. Only now with my husband distracted have I been able to act.” She said as the camera returned to her and her children “today I announce the formation of the District of McKenna which will include the worlds of McKenna, Sorunda, Ling, Second Chance, Gomelsa and New Delos.” She said naming them New Delos would be a surprise it was officially a world of the District of Oriente but it had been swayed by her words to join the newly formed District. “In an effort to protect them from the inevitable fallout from my actions I have assisted the systems of Bernardo, Holt Park Place and Ibstock in joining the Star League Protectorate, these worlds are loyal to a peaceful Free Worlds League and wish to be part of what I expect will be my ex-husband’s attempt at taking our worlds back by force.” She said the loss of four systems to the Star League would win her no fans in the Free Worlds League but it would protect them from Lester’s actions in the future, it wasn’t a perfect choice but she thought in time she could perhaps persuade them to return to the fold. “If Regulan forces come to the District of Regulus understand we will protect ourselves as of today I have signed a letter of intent to reactivate the First, Second and Third Atrean Dragoons Regiments bringing them back into the Army of the Free Worlds League ready to protect her borders from enemies foreign and domestic.” She said the Third Atrean Dragoons had been inactive since the First Succession War while the First and Second regiments had been around more recently but were currently inactive on FWL District Rosters.
Within days of the announcement Captain-General Robert Brett-Marik of Gibraltar, the current overall leader of the FWL parliament announces his support for McKenna and announces that the Eleventh Tamarind Militia, a brigade-sized combined arms formation, would be placed on loan to the District of McKenna as a peace keeping force to assist with the protection of the new District until its ow military were ready to protect all of its worlds. In an effort to save face from Brett-Marik’s selfless actions and to spite the District of Regulus the Free Worlds League deploy all three recently formed Marik Protectors Regiments to the District of McKenna to support the peacekeeping effort, their first deployment off of Marik as a Free Worlds League unit. For his part Duke Lester Cameron-Jones denies his wife’s accusations claiming the actions that resulted in her father’s death were made by officers who were no longer part of his chain of command. It is believed that he does not order immediate military action due to the presence of the League peacekeeping forces.
Border conflict
Swartz, Albiero Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
8th January 3116
In a seemingly combined assault, the Rasalhague Dominions and Clan Lynx launch assaults against the Albiero Prefecture of the Draconis Combine. In a blitzkrieg assault the Rasalhague Dominion’s Rasalhague Galaxy awakens from its slumber and assaults the systems of Albiero, Sainsville and Schwartz. Only in the Albiero system do they encounter heavy resistance from the Thirteenth Pesht Regulars and the WarShip DCS Taipan, a Inazuma II-class Corvette, the Bears answer the DCMS defence with the WarShip Rudigen, a Leviathan 2-class Battleship, which blows through the Corvette and its supporting defences barely even noticing the ship was there. On the ground the elite First Rasalhague Bears Cluster outclass and out shoot the Pesht Regulars unit until they are forced to surrender.
At the same time in complete coordination with the Rasalhague Dominion Clan Lynx strike at the backs of the Draconis Combine forces forcing their way onto the worlds of Virentofta, Staplefeld and Echo. On both Echo and Staplefeld the Lynx forces encounter elements of the Seventeenth Pesht Regulars. The Seventeenth was oversized for a Regulars unit and should really have been two separate units with each subdivision of the unit comprised of two each of BattleMech Battalions, Armour Battalions, Infantry Battalions and an aerospace wing each. The unit had been raised in strength to meet Clan Lynx head on and stem its invasion into the Draconis Combine keeping the Clan to the periphery.
Meeting both formations of the Seventeenth Clan Lynx offer the unit a simple Trial of Possession over the two targeted worlds. The samurai of both halves of the Seventeenth jump at the opportunity to meet the Clansmen in honourable combat and agree to fight within the constraints of Zellbrigen. As is Clan tradition the Lynx commanders agree to transmit their pilot and BattleMech data to the Draconis Combine defenders so they could prepare for an open battle the next day.
As dawn breaks the two sides of the battlefield line up the Draconis Combine gain their first look at the Clan Lynx’s newest weapon of war the Bobcat OmniMech. A forty-ton OmniMech capable of almost one hundred-and-twenty kilometres per hour and covered in Ferro Lamellor armour. Capable of carrying fourteen-and-a-half tons of weapons and equipment the Lynx commanders include five different variants of the capable medium OmniMech to confuse DCMS lines and break down the defenders. The Bobcat’s appearance is a complete surprise to the Draconis Combine Intelligence Services who did not believe that the Lynx possessed the capability of building such and advanced OmniMech. This leads many to believe the OmniMech had originally been designed and built for another Clan and either won or traded for by the Lynx. The OmniMech’s pointed and nearly hooked “nose” torso suggests that originally the Bobcat went by a different name and in the service of Clan Snow Raven.
In two short trials both Echo and Staplefeld fall to Clan Lynx and with them in effect the Draconis Combine loses all control over that area of its periphery border with Clan vessel able to traverse any system in the region unmolested. Star League Defence Forces arrive in the Pesht District to support the defences but they are too late to stop the recent gains by Clan Lynx and the Rasalhague Dominion. For the Lynx Clan it is a successful debut of their new OmniMech and another step towards legitimacy working with the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion.
CIC SLS Gryphon (Otey Block II-class Battleship)
Fenwick Shipyards, Fenwick
Star League Protectorate
17th January 3116
“Ex-Oh, have all ties cut and take us out of the shipyard one half gravity acceleration” Commodore Charles Roven the commander of the SLDF’s newest WarShip the SLS Gryphon said from his command chair in the middle of the wide expansive bridge. All of the CIC crewmen were strapped into their chairs while the ship was not under any acceleration saving them from the need of dealing with the challenges of micro-gravity. Charles Roven was Terran born and had served on several WarShips before being assigned to the newly built Battleship.
“Casting off ties, bringing us out of spacedock, sir” Captain Brian Smith, the WarShip’s executive officer, responded like Roven he was Terran born and had served on several WarShips before joining the Gryphon. He’d commanded a DropShip under Roven once before and had been picked for the position specifically by the Commodore the two fit each other like a glove.
As their commands were passed out the Otey-class Battleship slipped clear of the shipyard and slowly into open space. Once the one million and forty thousand tonne ship was at a distance of one hundred thousand kilometres the engines brought the ship up to one gravity of acceleration. “Sir, ship has answered the call to one gravity of acceleration.” Brian Smith reported from his chair on the right side of the CIC. With this announcement Roven released the catches on his chair and stood up experiencing the artificial gravity created by the ship being under at fifty-two years of age Charles Roven always felt better when his ship was under acceleration. Like the other members of the CIC crew, he wore the green Star League Defence Force duty uniform.
“Very good, Major” he said smiling as Brian Smith joined him standing on the bridge both walked several steps ahead of the captain’s chair and stood beside the expansive holo-tank which dominated the long CIC. Around them the crewmen were releasing their chair straps and enjoying a little more freedom in the gravity.
“Time to put the Gryphon through her paces, have a course set for the Pathfinder Group.” He ordered quickly and efficiently Smith passed out the orders and they felt the ship adjust course.
“Intercept course set for Pathfinder, expected rendezvous in three hours.” Smith said checking some of the data presented on the holotank. Roven could read himself but it was good protocol for Smith to call out any changes in the vessel’s status.
“Our DropShips will join us at the rendezvous point. I want to practice with our new toys before we get there. Have each fighter wing take turns attempting to break through the other and attack us.”
“Understood Captain, it will be a good test of the new system.” Smith responded unlike the other Otey-class Battleships in the service with the SLDF the Gryphon had been upgraded with new technology. While the vessel had the same cosmetic profile of the standard Otey-class which hid the vessel’s heritage, which was based on the Stefan Amaris-class Battleship, the cosmetic changes the Otey Block II had were only the start of it. Inside the ship the heat sink capacity had been increased by another half, its fuel storage had been increased significantly, halfway along the hull two full decks had been added to the ship which increased its length by a dozen metres taking the vessel to sixteen hundred-and-twenty-five metres in length packed into these decks were additional computers and servers supporting the ship’s operations. The ship’s armour profile and coverage remained unchanged but half of the conventional pulse lasers had been replaced with laser based anti-missile systems providing superior coverage all around the ship. While four screen launchers had also been added to the vessels defensive armament further enhancing the vessels defensive capabilities. The new Otey II-class was still able to transport four DropShips and two wings of aerospace fighters but its small craft had been increased to eight craft from the previous six. Four of these craft were general use craft which could be used in boarding actions, search and rescue or as support craft. The remaining four were dedicated to a new class of craft which were currently unique to the Otey II-class and would give the ship additional capabilities.
“Yes, it will” Roven confirmed “Major, I want to make sure this system works before we get too far from spacedock. Deploy Ancile craft.”
“Affirmative, sir.” Smith replied the deployment of these ships were a prototype for all SLDF WarShips. From half the way along the Gryphon’s hull four small craft deployed and quickly took up positions around the ship. “Ancile deployment complete, all craft maintaining formation with Gryphon no change to ETA with Pathfinder Group.” Smith reported the Ancile Point Defence Craft was a drone controlled “flying ball” which was designed to intercept incoming missiles targeted on the WarShip and engage those missiles with their massed anti-missile arrays the one-hundred-ton craft had no offensive armament at all. They would enhance the Gryphon’s already impressive defensive armament while the WarShip was deployed in hostile conditions.
The Star League Navy wished to see how the Gryphon and her sister ships operated with the Ancile deployment before deploying a minimum of two of the small craft to every WarShip in the fleet. Built on the world of Bryant the future of hundreds of jobs hung on the success of the deployment of the new craft. Eventually the Ancile would also be sold to the member states of the Star League further improving the sales and giving shipyards work for years in refurbishments.
Rosice News Network
Dei Gratia, Rosice
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd January 3116
Live from the capitol city of Dei Gratia the Rosice News Network screens lit up as the broadcasters spoke to the people of the world. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Venla Nieminen, welcome to Rosice New Network’s Breaking Event” the middle-aged broadcaster said. She had lightly coloured skin, blonde hair with blue eyes and delicate features, the stereotypical Lyran look. She wore a dark blue “Steiner” business skirt and jacket with a white shirt which was open at the collar. “Tonight, we bring you a news story which concerns us all. According to reports which have begun to emerge a new virus has been discovered here on Rosice. Sheridan?” She said glancing over at her co-anchor.
“Indeed” Sheridan Jansen her male co-anchor said. He was more tanned than she was and he looked about ten years her senior with his dark hair beginning to go grey at the temples. He wore a charcoal suit with a white shirt and blue tie. “After first appearing in November last year the virus has reportedly spread across Rosice and displays with a discolouration of the skin, itchy rash and bleeding. Should any of our viewers be experiencing any of these symptoms they should contact the emergency number displayed at the bottom of the screen.” He said pausing
“Rosice Medical are on the case working to protect us all from this new virus. Health officials from Halfway have joined their colleagues here on Rosice and are ready to provide anyone sick of this virus with the best of care.” Venla Nieminen finished off. “At present officials from Rosice Medical do not know where this virus originated from but they have not ruled out that it has come from the weapons facility destroyed in a terrorist action by Democracy Now in September of last year.” She said “thus far Lyran Military Command have refused to comment on what was being researched at the plant and only that they continue mop-up operations there and care for those who had been wounded.”
“Separately Democracy Now have announced that their attack on a weapons facility on Rosice included no biological elements and that anything that may have caused the new virus came entirely from the facility themselves.” Sheridan Jansen said taking over “Democracy Now have said that their actions were against the oppressive Steiner State and not against the people of Rosice or the Lyran Commonwealth.”
Behind the news broadcast Lyran Health officials race to control the Rosice Virus spread. The Virus itself seems to target specific genetic markers within the population and those infected appear to suffer shortly from the virus before bleeding out and dying rapidly. By the time of the news broadcast over one thousand have died on Rosice.
Inner Sphere offensive
Clan Occupation Zones
28th January 3116
In a combined offensive the Lyran Commonwealth, Star League Defence Force and several mercenary commands including two regiments of the Wolf’s Dragoons launch assaults against the Rasalhague Dominion, Hell’s Horses, Coyotes, Jade Falcons and Wolves. By agreement from the Lyran leadership and with the Star League Defence Force all of the attacks are fought in accordance with Clan dueling laws known as Zellbrigen. In each case except one these battles are fought exactly as planned leading to minimal casualties on both sides.
In all the Inner Sphere forces successfully liberate Westerstede and Whittington from the Jade Falcons but fail to win the system of Halmyre Deans. The Isle of Skyes forces and Wolf’s Dragoons Alpha Regiment liberate Edasich from the Hell’s Horses but fail to win on Eaton. During the battle on Edasich the Isle of Skye’s Third Hesperus Guards are debuted against the Clan defenders. While Korbin’s Kommandos fail to liberate Yedi Prior in their Trial of Possession against Clan Coyote.
While the Isle of Skye’s Fourth and Fifth Hesperus Guards are seen in action against Clan Wolf along with several mercenary units no worlds change hands as the Wolves send them home back into the Isle of Skye missing several of their now used Defiance of Hesperus II products.
The only battle to fail to adhere to the rules of Zellbrigen was the battle for Wing between Star League Defence Force troops and troops of the Ninth Wolf Guard Cluster. Alaric Ward’s cluster minus their commander who had been on Tukayyid recently refuses to agree to a batchall with the SLDF troops and fight back against the First Knights Regiment of the Star League Defence Force. Unable to match the ferocity of the attacking Wolves the Knights are sent back to Denebola to rethink their strategy.
Author note: the Bobcat in canon is known as the Carrion Crow however with the Craven OmniMech already developed by the Ravens in this AU I moved the Carrion Crow's origin.
The Ancile was developed by Liam's Ghost and can be seen here: https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/ancile-class-point-defense-craft-pretend-it-was-there-the-whole-time/msg1560535/#msg1560535 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/ancile-class-point-defense-craft-pretend-it-was-there-the-whole-time/msg1560535/#msg1560535)
I'll be posting the active units, WarShips and map in the next few days. I hope you enjoy and as always and questions are welcome.
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Another good update DC.
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The current link to the active units in this AU.
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/active-units-of-the-inner-sphere-clans-and-periphery/30/ (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/active-units-of-the-inner-sphere-clans-and-periphery/30/)
And the most recent map
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/maps/30/#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/maps/30/#lastPost)
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Great to see Dragon Cat!
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Arise from your slumber timeline, ARISE! End your long sleep...
Erm, not sure where that came from maybe because Halloween just passed and this timeline like Frankenstein's monster is Alive once more.
Absolute Truth, (Nightlord-class Battleship)
New Kent, Clan Homeworlds
5th February 3116
High above the world of New Kent three WarShips led by the Absolute Truth continuously bombarded the planet below obliterating two clusters of the Goliath Scorpion Clan and a single cluster of the Blood Spirits. For three weeks the two Clans had defended their holdings on the world from waves of Society enemies but finally the Society had resorted to orbital bombardment.
Due to the lack of coordination with ground forces the WarShips were bombarding everything below them in an effort to finish Clan resistance on the world. This escalation of the fighting reduces the size of both Clans and reduces New Kent to a world of ash. The leader of Clan Blood Spirit Khan Alex Lassenem travels to the new capital of the Goliath Scorpions on the recently settled world of Arizona and meets with their leader Khan Freema Kirov. The two agree that their new objective must be to reduce the capabilities of the Society’s WarShip maintenance and construction starting with the facilities around Tamaron and Strana Mechty.
Visitor Centre Renown
Victoria Commonality, Capellan Confederation
Periphery
16th February 3116
Following another wave of internal emigration, the Capellan Confederation announces new visitor centres on several worlds of its periphery borders near the world of Renown expanding their area of influence. Again, like their previous movement these worlds had been inhabited but now have greater populations the moves into the periphery draws concerning views from the Magistracy of Canopus, Fronc Reaches and Taurian Concordat who have watched Capellan moves carefully.
Border Raiding
Marantha, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
21st February 3116
This was the McCoy’s Malcontents fifth raid in as many weeks and Captain Schuyler McCoy was feeling it his people hadn’t been home in two months and he was about ready to hang up his neurohelmet and take a break. The most recent attack, which like the others were supported by the Free Worlds League, had targeted the world of Marantha where the Magistracy produced aerospace fighters. The Malcontents had targeted an auxillary airfield quickly overwhelming the elements of the Fourth Canopian Light Horse and capturing four Lightning Aerospace Fighters which were now being packed up and prepared for travel along with several thousand tons of spare parts and ammunition all of which would be useful to the small unit.
On the ground Schyler McCoy stood beside his customized Archer BattleMech its left arm mounted hatchet still buried deeply in the torso of a downed Canopian Eyleuka. The fifty-five-ton BattleMech had been the last to fall at the airfield and the pilot had been captured alive following the battle. Like others Schyler would give them a chance to prove their worth to his Malcontents if not they’d be cut off. He thought watching as Stefanie Beas’ Fwltur SalvageMech walked into the frame along with a recently captured Shackleton ExplorationMech together the two Mech’s began to prize the Eyleuka off the Archer’s hatchet.
Amanda Cavalcanti walked over to join him watching the two Mechs work she began to speak but he could barely hear her over the screeching of metal caused by the work of the two BattleMechs. He raised his hand and the two began to walk away from the salvage work. “You know that thing will be more trouble than it’s worth” she said looking at the downed medium Mech “the ex-el will be hard to repair, the small cockpit is uncomfortable and the gyro is tough to repair.”
“You’re in a good mood today” he said sarcastically she’d done well in battle destroying a brand new Capellan-built 5L variant of the Cataphract BattleMech which weighed in at ten tons heavier than her Griffin already from what he’d heard she was thinking about keeping the Mech as her own. He decided that right now was not the time to mention that the Mech’s variable pulse lasers, extra light gyro and reflective armour would make it just as problematic as the downed Eyleuka.
“I’m tired, I’m also not sure what we’re going to do with the Lightnings which we don’t have pilots for or the repair bill we’re going to have after this little adventure.” She said her passion for the unit filled him with pride since she’d been captured into the unit, much like the Eyleuka pilot had in this battle, Amanda was now a member of his command lance following the death of Hector Barbarosa on Vixen.
“The FWL should foot most of the repair bill, that was our agreement” he countered “you keeping the Cataphract?”
“I think so” she admitted, it had been a tough battle with its reflective armour reducing the effectiveness of her particle cannon she’d resorted to a physical attack from behind which had critically damaged the gyroscope of the enemy Mech. The pilot had been captured but had so far refused to join the Malcontents. “We received a communication meant for the airfield commander, it was in the clear so no need to decrypt, Tellman’s Mistake and Bayindir have been invaded by Magistracy forces the Fourth have orders to pack up and prepare to move.”
“The FWL are going to get their war.” Schuyler said he knew his people had been hired in to ruffle the feathers of the Magistracy. Fortunately, they hadn’t sent too many forces against them so far but he didn’t fancy taking them deeper into the periphery state. This would be their last raid before heading home.
“Which could impact our payment.” Amanda pointed out he reached out and squeezed her shoulder gently.
“We’ve got enough in salvage to make up for it.” He said knowing the repair costs alone would probably cause issues “with what we’ve taken we should be able to refurbish a couple more of the hanger queens which are back on Whittington and it’ll set us up for our next move.” He said she didn’t resist his continued touch so he wrapped his arm around her fully as they turned back towards the salvage Mechs which had separated his Archer from the downed Eyleuka. “For now we’re going to head home before fighting fully erupts.”
“Sounds good to get some peace and quiet” she said resting her head against his arm “for a bit anyway.”
“We’ll see” he said continuing to hold her as the downed Magistracy BattleMech was dragged along the ground by the two salvage Mechs which were dragging it to the unit’s Mule-class DropShip.
Hiring Hall, Galatea Station
Galatea, Star League Protectorate
26th February 3116
She’d never been on the dead planet below but Tassa Kay found the concept of Galatea station strange. It had been built to provide mercenaries with a meeting place which she understood but why they didn’t just move the hiring halls from one planet to another bothered her, it seemed like it was such a waste. Not that it played on her mind too much today she’d been busy formally breaking off her contract with the Crescent Hawks which were currently rebuilding on the station.
The raids against Gibbs and Halmyre had cost the Hawks three MechWarriors but they’d salvaged two Jade Falcon BattleMechs which began to help offset their losses. Aksel Youngblood had already decided that the unit would be going back to the Jade Falcon front as soon as possible, which was enough of an incentive for Tassa to break ranks and announce the termination of her membership in the unit. Youngblood hadn’t been happy but he hadn’t tried to stop her which had freed her to look elsewhere.
Now she was in one of the hiring halls on one of the huge gravity decks that circled Galatea station’s solid core. The all of the gravity decks were a marvel of engineering with the internal facing sides of the decks made of reinforced transparent hull plating. The outer side of the internal core was made the same way allowing crewmen to see inside the massive station from the gravity deck. It was a strange set up but one Tassa could appreciate in a strange way the designers had tried to make the station feel bigger than it actually was, from what she understood there were plans to build an even bigger station in the system and try to rotate the entire structure to create a stable gravity field for everyone on board. The hiring halls were all located on the gravity decks and they were little more than open bars for people ready to serve in mercenary units and prospective customers to meet and discuss terms. She ordered a pint of Timbiqui Dark from the bar and searched out the man she’d come to meet Colonel Adam Wyld the commander of Wyld’s Jokers, she’d spoken to the man briefly through the “Link Network” which ran through the station and they’d agreed to meet here on gravity deck five, hall 6, McNasty’s Bar. Adam had said “look for the most unusual hat and that will be me.” He sounded eccentric but he also planned to head into the Free Worlds League which was exactly where she wanted to go.
Walking through the crowd of warriors she finally saw someone that stood out and headed in his direction taking a sip of her beer as she did. “Tassa Kay?” He said looking up at her she stood out, and she knew it, she had long red hair, a black leather jacket and a tight black tank top which revealed far more of her mid-rift than was normally acceptable. Her dress sense was intention she knew her looks made her desirable to men and women and she used that to her advantage.
“Only if Adam Wyld is asking” she answered seeing the man fully he was older than she’d expected in his fifties at least with a long graying beard, he wore a dark brown jacket and true to form he wore a tall pointed hat, almost like he wanted to look like a wizard from one of those old fantasy stories.
“It is I” he bellowed loudly raising his arms in a grand show as she sat down she noticed he had a child with him, so put off by his appearance she’d completely missed him. She suddenly appreciated Adam Wyld a little bit more he was theatrical intentionally so, intending on putting off anyone he spoke to so they would miss judge him.
“I understand you’re heading into the Free Worlds League?” She asked getting straight to business “that’s where I want to go. I’d like to sign on with you for the next six months and I’ll be willing to extend if it works out.”
“It would be more worth your money if you signed on with us fully.” He suggested as she drank more of her beer.
“Neg… Negative” she said covering her stutter as she drank. “Short term works better for me. My BattleMech belongs to me, I will pay for any repairs it needs and I’ll take my own salvage should I desire it. If the Jokers want what I claim you’ll pay me at 0.8 of basic price.” She suggested offering them a discount on her salvage would help even if sacrificing what she captured would hurt the unit.
“You’ll pay for the transport of anything “you” capture as well” Adam Wyld said “I won’t transport what you’re wanting for nothing.”
“Agreed” she said drinking more
“Then I think we can accommodate you. Youngblood sent through your record I think you’ll fit in find. One final question why leave the Hawks?”
“Aksel Youngblood plans to poach for more Falcons, I want to hunt Wolves.” She said smiling.
“That I can work with young lady, welcome to Wyld’s Jokers.” He said standing grandly waving his arms around and then reaching out with a massive hand now standing she could see Adam Wyld was a big man even without the tall pointed hat he stood at an impressive size. Standing up gracefully Tassa met his hand and shook it firmly she smirked internally as she could see his wince having not expected her firmer grip. Soon they’d leave this station and head after their first target.
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Next update
Fighting withdrawal
Wyatt, Thorin Administrative Area
Star League Protectorate
3rd March 3116
The air over the world of Wyatt was full of aircraft of various shapes and sizes as the invasion continued. Three days before the entirety of Clan Wolf’s Beta Galaxy supported by three WarShips had arrived in the system the Star League Navy had engaged them above but already the SLS Britannia and the SLS Surprise had been destroyed engaging the Wolves taking with them the WarShips Devastation and Principle. Both the Principle and SLS Surprise had served in the original Star League Defence Force but after the fighting here neither the Aegis or Kigamure-class vessels would ever fight again. Given their current courses the wreckage of Principle would likely impact with Wyatt’s moon in the next few hourse while the Surprise would soon lose orbit unless the Wolves dealt with it before then.
Now over the planet the SLS Venus faced off against the Wolf McKenna-class Battleship Ward’s Legacy both battleships were damaged from the fighting but they were operational giving the SLDF forces still on the planet a window to escape. Below the WarShips in the atmosphere the battle for supremacy continued with aerospace fighters and DropShips dueling it out for control. Despite the SLDF forces signalling their retreat the Wolves continued to attack and it was the aerospace forces job to hold them at bay. Turning his Huscarl OmniFighter Captain Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron pulled behind a Broadsword DropShip with his wingman Lt Park ‘Petra’ Ye-seul close by off his port side “Petra, hit the port engines I’ll strike the starboard”
“Understood” she said both aircraft hammered the enemy DropShip with their aircraft’s two ultra-type autocannons tearing open the rear armour of the small DropShip its engines showing heavy damage from the onslaught began to stutter off-line with the ship beginning to bank into a starboard turn. From either side of the ship BattleMechs began throwing themselves clear of the doomed DropShip which had little chance of a controlled landing.
“Nice kill, let’s find another one.” Jeremy said banking off to the right with Petra following closely the fighters were specifically outfitted to strike down enemy DropShips and assault fighters but the sky had far more enemy craft than defenders.
“Renegade Actual to all Renegade forces, Renegade One lift off in 3 minutes. All forces rally on Renegade One.” Colonel Jeremiah Rose called out to all his remaining forces Renegade One was their Command DropShip and the callsign of the DropShip’s command squadron. All six remaining Renegade Command DropShips would be leaving Wyatt together.
“We better be close by when they go up” Jeremy noted
“Affirmative Shockwave, new target three-zero-three on tac-map.” She called out Jeremy hated the callsign he’d earned on Vestallas fighting the Capellans following a loss to enemy fighters the shockwave of his exploding fighter had knocked him out, when he’d returned to duty the name had been painted on his locker, his fighter and his new uniform so he had a callsign whether he liked it or not.
“Agreed, under over treatment?” He asked her looking at the target it was a Wolf Union C Mech carrier. Despite the SLDF’s heavy fighter screen covering their ground forces the Wolves still insisted on sending more and more enemies over their ground base.
“Affirmative salvo the engines and the chrome dome should make them think twice.” She said he noticed her fighter taking the lead.
“Alright, Petra, I have your back.” He said slipping the fighter slightly behind hers and onto her starboard wing the two seventy-five-ton aircraft flew in on the Union C tearing down its spheroid shaped hull they let loose a salvo of weapons fire buckling one of the Mechbay doors. Several laser blasts impacted the underside of his Huscarl but the armour held as they reached the underside of the Union they both let off another salvo of weapons fire tearing into the ship’s engines. Unlike the Broadsword this bigger DropShip would not be put off by a single strike unstead the two Huscarls rolled over underneath the DropShip before climbing up around the DropShip again angling in on the chrome-colour painted top of the DropShip.
As the two fighters approached the Union C for their third strike both were struck by a steady stream of autocannon fire which impacted both fighters. “Break-off, Break-off!” He called out seeing they’d been engaged by a pair of Goth OmniFighters the Union would have to wait. “We need to get these guys before we can go near the DropShips.”
“They have range on us but those cannons don’t like being fired often.” She agreed as they saw the pair of Goth’s pursuing them autocannon fire continued to bracket the two Huscarls.
“Take them low and fast keep moving and keep your spacing we don’t need them taking pot shots at one of us and hitting the other!”
“Agreed” she answered the two Huscarls dived low across the SLDF base inviting MechWarriors to take shots at the Goths as they passed unfortunately the Renegade ground forces were busy keeping fighting off Wolf ground forces. The Wolves Beta Galaxy were pushing them back at every turn for a moment Jeremy was tempted to switch to ground attack and help out the ground forces but then his Huscarl took a heavy jolt as one of the Goth’s struck home. “Shockwave, you go over fast and I go under then a heavy lift!” his wing called out ahead he saw what she meant there was a bridge which the ground pounders had put out of action hours before now it would serve as some useful terrain for the two Huscarls.
The two aerospace fighters split as they approached the bridge with Jeremy heading over while Petra went under the bridge the two Goth’s did the same following their own individual targets but the two SLDF pilots had other ideas Jeremy poured on the speed keeping his course forward while Park slowed a little while going under, any pilot taking a seventy-five-ton aircraft under thirty metres in height would slow down. But this also brought one of the Goth’s ahead of her craft as she sped under the bridge Park immediately angled upwards and triggered her autocannons the stream of fire cut through Jeremy’s flight path but his fighter had already passed by unlike the Goth which was just in the right position autocannon fire slammed into the bottom of the aircraft penetrating its armour causing an ammunition explosion which knocked the Goth out of the fight permanently the pilot ejecting from their stricken craft.
Jeremy had also acted as Park as she’d fired on the Goth, he’d cut his fighter’s speed and banked heavily to the right turning his fighter in as tight a turn as was possible. Because of his tight turn his fighter had lost height bringing him in line with the speeding Goth. Unlike Park’s unsuspecting target this one could see him and it immediately opened fire with its paired cannons which had better reach than his own weapons. Jeremy relied on his fighter’s armour and speed accelerating heavily back towards the Goth on a head-to-head pass he let rip with both autocannons and his medium pulse lasers as the range cut to near point-blank range. There was little chance of the sixty-ton aerospace fighter surviving the onslaught with his heavy ballistic attack causing rippled explosions across the Goth’s fuselage and wings. At the height the pilot was at they had no chance of a safe ejection but instead of having to ride the wreckage to the ground as one of the pulse lasers cut through the cockpit instantly incinerating the pilot. One of the autocannons rounds then penetrated the ammunition storage causing a massive explosion which consumed the fighter. At the speed he was travelling and with no way to clear the bridge on his current course Jeremy plowed through the explosion diving under the broken bridge.
“Shockwave, you alright?” Park called out as Jeremy’s fighter flew back into clear air a moment or so later.
“A little beat up, but I’ll manage another round or two.”
“I was worried the shockwave from that explosion would take you out…”
“Shut-up Park!” Jeremy shouted back smiling as he did, she was trying to get under his skin and it was working. “Let’s find another target.”
“Renegade Actual to all commands Renegade One is airborne! All aerospace fighters’ rendezvous in orbit.”
“That’s our bug out call” Park said as the two Huscarls reunited flying towards their base, on the ground in among the broken vehicles and BattleMechs they could see an Outpost DropShip painted in the colours of Clan Wolf’s Beta Galaxy.
“Tempting target” Jeremy said tilting his fighter’s wings at the Outpost considering an attack just as the doors began to open.
“We won’t have the speed to catch up with the other Renegades” Park answered pulling the nose of her fighter towards the sky but maintaining formation “next time Shockwave. We’ll be back.”
“Count on it” he agreed giving up his desire to damage the Wolf ship and instead turning to follow the other retreating Renegades DropShips and fighters, the battle for Wyatt was over. With the damage the command had taken the Northwind Renegades would be out of the fight for months meaning Jeremy had time to plan his revenge.
Terminal Nine
Expanded Region, Nova Cat’s Den
10th March 3116
The Nova Cats complete their ninth Dominion Terminal space station which has been built in the Expanded Region of the Nova Cat’s Den between Terminal Four and the systems of Pegasi and Lucian. The Nova Cats will use the station as part habitat, part way station to be used by the Clan as it supplies Pegasi with troops and other supplies. The Terminal will also serve as a coordination point for mining operations in the system following the discovery of valuable materials on several of the larger asteroids in the system. Already the Nova Cats had built mining operations in the system which provided work for nearly three thousand of the lower castes.
The initial Nova Cat plan had been to build two more of the Terminal type of space station betweenthe Pegasi and Carcri systems and between the Carcri and Caphai systems but following the destruction of the Eigth terminal to Federated Suns hands and the loss of several WarShips during their recent campaign against the Succession State the Nova Cat leadership chooses to put resources into WarShip construction instead holding the Terminal project.
Trial of Possession
Nox, Clan Lynx Territory
Rasalhague Dominion
13th March 3116
In a Trial of Possession, the Seventh Nova Cat Roar Cluster of Clan Lynx’s Zeta Galaxy and engages the Eighth Bear Cuirassiers Cluster of the Rasalhague Dominion’s Polar Bear Assault Galaxy. Fighting in open plains near the capital city of Bolsun the Lynx warriors use their speed to out-maneuver the Rasalhague Dominion forces deploying Elementals and Clan Standard Battle Armour suits in and around the Dominion’s lines. With Lynx warriors swamping the Eighth’s lines the trial is over within an hour with the Seventh’s victory assured. In celebration of the successes on Nox the Seventh changes its name to the Seventh Lynx Battle Cluster casting off its Nova Cat past embracing its place in the new Clan.
Battle of Donegal
Donegal, Lyran Commonwealth
19th March 3116
The Lyran Commonwealth, Star League Defence Force and mercenary forces push Clan Jade Falcons out of the Donegal system but at with heavy losses. Archon Jessica Steiner herself joins the invasion launching off of Tharkad commanding the invasion from the LCS Peter Steiner-Davion, an Indefatigable-class Battleship, she oversees the invasion of their former province capital. As part of the forces the Grey Death Legion who are well experienced in recent Jade Falcon fighting are involved in the battle. The Jade Falcons fight a stand-up battle in a Trial of Position which turns against them leading to the Clan accepting the offer of Hegira and retreating from the system.
The victory in the Donegal system is a psychological victory for the Lyran Commonwealth but it costs them hundreds of men and women. For the Jade Falcons the Clan lost several Cluster’s claiming Donegal but the push towards Tharkad appears to have been slowed and instead the Clan is turning its attention back towards the drive to Terra.
Trial of Possession
Shasta, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
20th March 3116
Star Colonel Darnel Tseng stood victorious on the Battlefield still suited in his Elemental Battle Armour suit as Clan Sea Fox seized control over the Shasta and Mundrabilla systems from the Free Worlds League. Clan Sea Fox had trade embassys on the worlds for years and Tseng’s Khanate the Predators had chosen to expand their embassy to the whole world. After a short battle the Sea Foxes had quickly obliterated the Marik Militia units remaining on the worlds seizing control of the two systems.
The frequency crackled to life “this is Star Colonel Perian Rodriguez of the Fifteenth Cruiser Cluster, prepare yourselves for battle.” A female voice said Darnel looked up and saw an unknown BattleMech falling from the sky it looked like a Summoner OmniMech but it looked differently. The Fifteenth Cruiser Cluster was part of the Starstrike Khanate which hadn’t been part of this battle.”
“This is Star Colonel Darnel Tseng my forces are victorious on Shashta it is now a Sea Fox holding. Fifteenth Cruiser Cluster you may stand-down. Quineg?”
“Neg, Star Colonel Tseng our battle is against your forces. Our intention is to take this holding for the Starstrike Khanate.”
“Our forces have just completed a battle. You would attack your own Clan in a Trial of Possession without allowing them to refit. Where is the honour in that battle?” Darnel asked watching the strange BattleMech land and unload a pulse laser, particle cannon and lasers on one of Darnel’s Mechs. “I request a hold until our forces are prepared and a true Batchall can be held.” Off to Darnels right he saw a fast-moving BattleMech he didn’t recoignize turning he saw it was a deep blue with green lines and stars, the colours of the Starstrike Khanate. He let off his last two short range missiles at the target as he saw it open fire with a pulse laser and missiles against his troops. Both of his missiles struck their target but the BattleMech’s armour barely looked damaged as it turned Darnel noticed the Mech had a strange double low-slung double-sided head and tall arms. His battle computer said that it was named as a Hammerhead. Before Darnel could even move the Mech unloaded another volley of short-range missiles several of which slammed into Darnel’s suit knocking the wind out of the Elemental as his suit flew backwards following the impact. Looking up he tried to pick himself back up but the last thing Darnel saw was another pulse laser blast that illuminated Darnel’s suit and killed the Star Colonel inside.
Within an hour the Fifteenth Cruiser Cluster proclaimed victory seizing control of the trade zone on Shasta and the system beyond with the Fourty-second Combined Strike Cluster destroyed in the battle. Fighting between two Khanates was not an uncommon thing, the Khanates were self contained factions of the Sea Fox Clan out to expand the Clan’s territory and secure the most resources by anyway necessary however the complete destruction of a Cluster and the lack of an honour trial are uncommon within inter-Clan battles.
Public announcement, Presidential Palace
Larkinge, Swartklip
Swartklip Protectorate
29th March 3116
On a sunny mid summer day in the rose garden of the presidential palace on Swartklip in the Lyran Periphery region the assembled press from Swartklip, the nearby worlds, the Lyran Commonwealth and the Star League Protectorate had been invited for a meeting. There it had been announced that the leadership of Swartklip, Elume, Sweet Water, Canal, Tsarahaven and Howick would be making an announcement along with members of the Star League Defence Force. For several years now the SLDF had invested heavily in Swartklip the world now boasted an entire brigade of guard regiments, a permanent naval presence, an extensive training ranges on the ground and in space and a space station all of which had created jobs for the world. The heavy SLDF presence in the system had brought support contracts for all of the nearby systems further creating a boom for the region. The Lyran Commonwealth had sat back and reaped the rewards of this investment while citizens of the Star League Protectorate, who for the most part paid for the SLDF’s expansion, questioned why there was so much spent on a remote region.
Today these questions and more were answered as the leaders of each of the six worlds filtered out President Bihr Huan the dark-skinned leader of Swartklip steeped forwards. Generations ago his ancestors had been some of the first to settle on Swartklip forming part of the Indian population who resided on the world. In the most recent planetary election Bihr had swept his opponents with a progressive and outward looking manifesto. “Ladies and gentlemen of the assembled press thank you for attending today, as you can see, I am joined by the assembled leadership of Elume, Sweet Water, Canal, Tsarahaven and Howick and by Fleet Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald, the commander of the Star League Defence Forces Navy.” He said announcing everyone who was present. “Today we are here to announce that Swartklip and the worlds nearby it have requested aid and protection from the Star League and we have been accepted. As of this date our worlds will form a new Protectorate centred on Swartklip with myself serving as its first Protector-General.” He said the announcement caused several of the reporters’ cameras to flash and it would be a moment beamed across the Inner Sphere.
“All of our planetary forces will immediately be recognised as Star League Defence Force Guard regiments and will immediately be in line for additional support and an influx of personnel. Each of our worlds will continue to build on the relationships we already have and continue to cooperate with our neighbours in the Lyran Commonwealth. To the people of the Lyran nation we are not a breakaway state, we consider ourselves as loyal to you as we were yesterday, we just… need to stand up for ourselves and look at our future with the Clans upon us as they were upon other worlds in the past our worlds need more support and a presence that currently the Commonwealth cannot provide.” He said recently all of the worlds had suffered heavily from raids by the Stone Spirits which although not officially recoignised as a Clan state it was heavily influenced by the Clan members who had formed it. The Lyrans had provided the region with heavy support but the SLDF offered further protection and had placed a greater emphasis on providing the worlds with the equipment they needed and letting the locals do the job creating more local support for the SLDF instead of sending regiments from beyond the worlds. The only heavy outside presence on Swartklip was the resting navy personnel which crewed the WarShips and Space Station in the system and they brought in credits from elsewhere which further stimulated Swartklip’s economy.
“We will of course extend all courtesys to the Lyran Commonwealth personnel stationed within our military units and on our worlds and will make arrangements to have them transferred to other stations should they desire.” He said extending the olive branch for the most part their planetary defence forces would be made up of personnel from their own worlds but there would be those from beyond their borders who had been assigned to a backwater posting who may wish to still be remain within the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. There were also civilians who were employed directly by agencies that were based throughout the Lyran realm who may not wish to move their employment into another nations area of influence.
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I'll try to keep this more up to date than I have recently but December has been the usual fun.
Office of the Khans
Former Kell Family Hold, Arc Royal
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
9th April 3116
The place for a Clan warrior was not behind a desk but today was one of those days that Khan Jana Pryde of the Jade Falcons had to remain. Today she had authorized the creation of several new Clusters of warriors and deployed them into the Lyran Commonwealth against the worlds of Collnas, Jaumegrande, Turinge, Bjornlunda and Furillo. The battles the warriors would face would be their initial Trial of Possession those that survived would become members of the Jade Falcon warrior caste, their time as cadets was over. Recently she had reinforced her Clan with several Clusters of Jade Falcon warriors won in Harvest Trials taken against the Sea Fox, Hell’s Horses and Coyote Clans the Falcons had a plan gone were plans to conquer the capital worlds of the Lyran Commonwealth instead they were going for the nation’s manufacturing capital Hesperus II.
In the coming days only the systems of Jaumegrande and Bjornunda all fell to the Jade Falcon cadets with those that survived their victory now granted warrior status. The forces deployed to Collnas, Turinge, and Furillo were wiped out completely by the Lyran defenders. In all the Jade Falcons had lost the equivalent to seven clusters of warriors but they were a couple of jumps closer towards their goal of Terra. With the cadets proving their worth Jana Pryde and the elite units of the Clan would charge into the heart of the Isle of Skye.
As the Falcons have successes against the Lyrans the Rasalhague Dominion and Lynx Clan factions have other successes jointly assaulting the Draconis Combine the two Clan factions capture Almunge, Brocchi’s Cluster, Coudoux, Hanover and Kabah before the end of April. The continued joint operations by the two Clans and the successes of Clan Jade Falcon shows the Inner Sphere that they need another solution to fight the Clans.
Public Health Announcement
Triad, Tharkad
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd April 3116
On Tri-vid screens across the Inner Sphere and beyond Dr Tobias Roeper, the Head of Lyran Health stands to make an announcement that would cause fear and panic in many places. Tobias Roeper was in his late sixties and had never reached for the limelight but today he needed to be the one that spoke to the people of the Lyran Commonwealth. “Ladies and gentlemen, I am Dr Tobias Roeper the head of the health department for the Lyran Commonwealth, we have been monitoring a genetic virus which targets specific genes causing illness and then death. The scientific and medical community across the Lyran Commonwealth and with our allies in the Star League Defence Force are doing all they can to find the best treatment for sufferers of this virus” the over weight balding man said looking at the tri-vid camera Roeper was not a picture of health but he was the man best placed to inform the people of what was wrong.
“Unfortunately, due to the severity and targeted nature of this virus and the unknown transmission rate and method, certain steps have had to be taken. As of this date the 22nd of April 3116 the systems of Rosice and Radostov are under a quarantine with restricted travel into and out of these systems. This will remain in effect until further information is gained on the virus.” He said pausing for a moment “to the people who are living and visiting these worlds listen to the authorities on these worlds they are there to help you, if you do not have a permanent residence on these worlds and are stranded the authorities there will help you. You will not be forgotten.” He promised the people on the two quarantined worlds. “Updates will continue on the progress of this virus, the ongoing quarantine and treatments that will be rolled out by your health providers. If you have left ether the Rosice or Radostov systems within the last week please report to your nearest health centre for a health check up.”
Distress Signal
Uncharted world, Outworlds Wastes
Periphery
30th April 3116
Following the detection of a distress signal when their JumpShip had entered the system Captain Alec Oak had ordered the Raven Alliance’s Thermo Police into the system to investigate it had taken their two DropShips three days to make the trip. The distress call was generic and continued to repeat that there was a DropShip which had landed on the world and been unable to leave the crew were now taking shelter near their ship and required assistance. The same message could have been playing for decades but one of the reasons the Thermo Police were out here in the Outworlds Wastes was to investigate any signals they picked up.
From orbit the Headquarters, their Lion-class DropShip had detected what appeared to be an ancient Mingo-class Dropshuttle which hadn’t been used in more than one hundred years despite this indication that the ship’s crew would have been long dead Oak ordered the unit to land. The Headquarters had found a landing zone a little under a kilometre from the Mingo at one end of a long rocky ravine from orbit the planet looked entirely land locked with a few small lakes and rivers dotted across the landscape the atmosphere was thin and the world was colder than a comfortable world but there wasn’t enough moisture to make it a wet or snow-covered place. From what he’d seen since leading the landing zone there wasn’t many large creatures in the area either just some small small mammals the size of a domesticated dog, a poorly fed one at that.
From the landing zone the unit’s ten BattleMechs could move in and investigate the find. The Thermo Police’s second DropShip the Precinct One, a Buccaneer-class vessel, had needed a longer area of land to come done on and had landed nearly three kilometres away on board it was their three IndustrialMechs, supporting infantry, support staff and the five ProtoMechs assigned to the unit. For the initial part of the mission the ProtoMechs would be the primary defence for Precinct One. As a trueborn Raven Karl had applauded Oak’s aggressive strategy this way, they would engage with those already on the planet in less than an hour.
In his BattleMech Karl followed Oak’s Dervish in his Warhammer IIC at the other side of the Dervish walked Rhodes Cable’s own Warhammer while the Hercules and Ursus BattleMechs followed them by one hundred metres. Further back still was the support star of its four regular Mechs and Alisan Nostra’s Hunter IIC which had traveled onboard the Headquarters. Making their way along the ravine it was Karl’s Warhammer IIC’s sensors that detected the BattleMech first it was a design he didn’t recognize, as quickly as he’d seen the contact it was gone again. “Contact!” He called out looking over the sensor image he could see it was a smaller Mech than his Warhammer IIC, it had a nearly round torso with two cannons extending from its back one over each shoulder. The Mech had two fully formed arms and back-canted pointed toed legs. “Single unidentified BattleMech, I am moving to investigate.”
“Negative, MechWarrior Karl await until we are in position.” Oak said but Karl’s BattleMech had already turned to face the potential threat.
“Too late” he said to himself allowing his finger to slip off the transmission button he muttered “freebirth” under his breath. As a Clan Trueborn warrior Karl’s position may be subordinate to Oak in position but his birthright took most importance and if he ever wished to win a Bloodname he’d need to count on his genes and taking on every challenge he could.
His Warhammer IIC8 was about two hundred metres clear of the other BattleMechs rounding a pile of grey rocks sitting on the brown soil his quarry appeared standing waiting for him behind the BattleMech there were plenty of thick rock cropping which would impede any Mech’s movement, his BattleMech’s warbook quickly tried to identify the BattleMech but did not recognize it. Quickly Karl opened a communication channel “I am MechWarrior Karl of Clan Snow Raven, I challenge the MechWarrior ahead of my position, this will be a dual of honour may no-one else interfere.” He said before the other BattleMechs could round the corner the smaller Mech’s arms were raised and his sensors could detect targeting systems coming from the Mech. “These other warriors will not become involved if you accept this challenge.”
“I am MechWarrior Berat Hordwon of the Escorpión Imperio Seekers we have claimed this world you are intruding on our territory.” The MechWarrior responded the BattleMech holding fire his Warhammer IIC8’s sensors had identified that the enemy Mech was either forty or forty-five tons in weight and was most likely built using Clan technology.
“The who?” Karl pondered to himself for a moment before triggering the communication system “MechWarrior, I do not know who your Escorpión Imperio is…” he said he noticed his private communication channel between him and Lieutenant Alisan Nostra was also active. “I am a member of Clan Snow Raven and I have challenged you to one-on-one combat. You will accept it or you will face my entire Star’s fury.”
“And yours will face mine” the MechWarrior responded from behind the unknown design Karl saw a Daedalus QuadMech rise fully to its feet, beside it looked like a pair of Orion BattleMechs, though his Warhammer’s warbook was struggling to lock down on the Mech type, finally a Timber Wolf OmniMech rose fully to its feet. Karl cursed himself he had challenged a MechWarrior when the Star Captain was waiting for them, now one of his Starmates would defeat them and the glory that would be attached to that victory. Karl noticed that his communication channel was still waiting with Nostra.
“Wait one” he said keeping his fingers near the firing triggers he switched channel his eyes never leaving the enemy Mech “what is it?” He snapped “you may be born of Clan blood, but you do not know our ways! Quiaff?” He demanded angrily.
“MechWarrior Karl, the name Hordwon was once an Ice Hellion name, this Warrior could be a trueborn like you.”
“Of a dead Clan and now of a Bandit Kingdom.” Karl said pondering for a moment “I have an idea” he said switching back to the other frequency “MechWarrior Hordwon, I am a trueborn of the Snow Raven Clan, we are tracking down a Bandit Caste force. You are far from home it is possible you have stumbled into our hunt.”
“This world has been claimed as our own MechWarrior it is you who have stumbled somewhere.”
“Then we will dispense with our Honour trial which you have failed to answer, I declare a Trial of Possession over this world. Clan Snow Raven’s Thermo Police bring ten BattleMechs, 3 Industrial Mechs and five ProtoMechs to this battle.” He declared now he saw Captain Alec Oak’s frequency was active.
“We agree, but with one provision you accept all surivors from our battle into your Clan.”
“I accept.” He said switching the frequency he activated Oak’s channel “Sir” he said confidently.
“What are you doing! We are not here to declare an invasion on a world?”
“We are Clansmen Captain Oak. Your unit has been allowed some autonomy but I was born for battle, they have accepted our battle.” He said “we were ordered to look around the periphery the Raven Alliance, we have found something that could potentially have found a threat on our border…”
“So, you declare war on them!”
“A Trial of Possession is not the same as a War.” He stated calmly “Captain, these warriors could potentially be from the fallen Ice Hellion Clan, Lieutenant Nostra identified the name of the warrior I spoke to as a Hellion bloodname.” He explained “should they be of Clan blood and should this Escorpión Imperio be close to our borders we should be prepared for them, Quiaff?” He asked wondering if Oak had listened to what was going on.
“You are correct MechWarrior, we should investigate”
“Aff” he said swapping back to the open frequency “we are ready to begin this trial here and now, but as the defender I am willing to give you the choice of venue and time as is our tradition.”
“We are also ready, we have this single star of BattleMechs here, our other forces protect our landing site and will not be included in this battle. I will transmit our combat and codex data. Quiaff?”
“Aff, your bid of five BattleMechs is accepted, the Snow Ravens have ten BattleMech here at present as our initial bid.” He said swapping to the Snow Raven secure channel “Captain Oak, you heard their bid as is our tradition we must inform them who will fight them. We can take all of our BattleMechs but that will not win our Clan honour.”
“It would be the most effective use of our forces.” His commander initially answered “but you understand this sort of thing better than I and this is your battle MechWarrior. Choose the force you wish to battle; I seed command of this trial to you.” Oak said Karl almost smiled, almost being the correct term now that Karl was in command any failure would fall on him but so would the victory.
Karl sat for a moment and looked at the data shared by the enemy MechWarrior the forty-ton Mech he’d initially seen was called a Whipscorpion and was an alien design to him before today. The two BattleMechs which had looked like Orions were in fact known as Reconquista C BattleMechs which were more like IndustrialMechs than proper BattleMechs they were powered by Fuel Cell engines, making them slower than almost any other Mech Karl had seen and they featured strange looking lift hoists hanging from their backs. What they’d originally been designed for was anyone’s guess but now they were a nightmarish mix of IndustrialMech and BattleMech but still would likely be no match for a true Clan BattleMech. The Timber Wolf and Goliath were likely going to be the toughest of opponents the Timber Wolf was an iconic Clan OmniMech known across the Inner Sphere for its prowess in battle while the Goliath was an eighty ton heavily armoured QuadMech. “We must match the BattleMechs we will face, I will take on the Timber Wolf, Rudolf and Joel you will each face one of their Reconquistas they are heavier than your Mechs but you are capable warriors and you have better equipment than them. Adrie your Ursus is lighter than that Daedalus but it is like those Reconquista’s and built as an IndustrialMech, keep moving and force its surrender.”
“And I will take on the Whipscorpion.” Oak said
“Captain, it may be lighter than your Mech but it is a superior machine.” Karl warned
“I’m still the commander of this unit Karl, if we’re going to fight them then I’ll take on the target.” Oak said
“Aff, Captain, transmitting data.”
A short while later the ten Mechs were facing off against each other ready to engage in battle and straight away as planned the separate challenges flew out almost immediately the Dark Crow, Shadow Hawk IIC and Ursus II from the Thermo Police launched themselves into the air attacking their opponents. In the less nimble Warhammer IIC Karl stood his ground. “I am MechWarrior Karl of the Snow Raven Clan; I began this trial and I challenge the Timber Wolf opposite my positon to single combat may no other enter.”
“I am Star Commander Pine I accept your challenge MechWarrior; may no other enter” Karl cursed his luck the Timber Wolf was the star’s commander but unlike the Whipscorpion pilot he wasn’t bloodnamed. Never mind the fight was now more important.” The Timber Wolf opposite him opened fire with both large lasers one went wide while the other slammed into the Warhammer’s left leg just as Karl charged forwards returning fire with both arm mounted Heavy Large Lasers the opal coloured beams stretched the distance between the two Mechs savaging the Timber Wolf’s armour as a wave of heat rushed into the Warhammer IIC’s cockpit.
Ignoring the rising heat Karl pulled the secondary triggers hitting out with his two plasma cannons intending on heating up the enemy Timber Wolf as he fired the Timber Wolf began to move launching forty missiles in his direction. Karl watched as the missiles approached ducking at nearly the last moment throwing off a third of the missiles while the rest slammed into his eighty-ton Mech’s armour. Cutting to the right Karl watched as his lasers cycled and pulled the triggers again ignoring the rising heat once more slapping the manual override keeping forced shutdown at bay. One one of his opal beams hit his target burning into the Timber Wolf’s left side torso coring the armour. He saw a rise in heat from the Timber Wolf indicating his weapons were doing something. The crouched over design twisted its damaged side away from him and firing a pair of blue coloured medium lasers and a green pulse laser all three burned into his charging Warhammer IIC causing more armour damage but little else. Karl smelled blood cutting to side he triggered his Mech’s secondary armament firing his own torso mounted two medium lasers and short-range missile launcher. One of his own blue beams of high-powered light and energy slammed into the ground but the other beam burned into the Timber Wolf’s left leg. Moments later the six short range missiles slammed into the Timber Wolf exploding all over the hunched over Mech’s frame causing damage.
In retaliation the enemy Mech’s long range missiles and red coloured large lasers reached out at the Warhammer damaging armour all down the right side of Karl’s Mech, Karl noticed the SRM launcher blink out damaged by the assault he flicked the ammo dump for the launcher. He continued moving trying to get behind the Timber Wolf firing both plasma cannons one slammed into the side of the ravine the super heated plasma causing the very rock face to explode outwards showering the Timber Wolf in small pieces of rock.
Machine gun, laser and pulse laser fire tracked the running Warhammer IIC causing more damage against the side of the assault Mech, but Karl wasn’t ready to stop he continued moving and firing doing his best to make himself a tough target for the enemy OmniMech while trying to cause heavy damage in response the heat inside the Warhammer IIC rose significantly but he ignored it and continued to move. One twin volley of firey plasma cannon and opal heavy laser blasts slammed into the Timber Wolf’s torso burrowing deep inside the right side of the Mech. Inside the machine the super heated plasma caused the Timber Wolf’s long range missile ammunition bay to explode. The CASE technology built into the OmniMech tried to save the machine by venting the explosions through specially designed panels but the damage done by the heavy lasers was enough to cause the entire right side to essentially collapse with the arm falling useless to its side.
With his BattleMech crippled Star Commander Pine signaled his surrender unwilling to die against a superior pilot. Karl slowed his Mech to a walk and accepted the Timber Wolf pilot’s surrender ordering him to stand down he then turned to face the rest of the battlefield. Both Rudolf and Joel were still fighting their respective targets both of the MechWarriors appeared to be getting the better of their targets. He saw that Adrie’s Ursus II similarly was standing over the hunched over Daedalus, the enemy IndustrialMech’s jury rigged weapons appeared to be disabled and it was trying to engage her with its backhoe but she was refusing to engage in physical combat. Finally, he saw the Whipscorpion though damaged was standing victorious over Captain Oak’s Dervish which lay on its side downed. From his position Karl could see the cockpit was intact and Oak hadn’t punched out meaning he was probably injured inside the BattleMech.
Turning to face the Whipscorpion Karl decided to take a different tract “to the MechWarrior piloting the BattleMech opposite me I am Karl of Clan Snow Raven. You have defeated my unit’s commander and I have defeated yours, my Starmates are getting the better of yours in this battle. We can fight and it may resort in your death or you can accept defeat and we can end this now. I will honour our agreement the warriors that fought today will not be abandoned.” He said keeping his targeting systems active and trained on the lighter Mech at this range both of his heavy lasers could hit the enemy Mech. He wanted to capture the Whipscorpion it was an unknown design to his Clan and although the data gained during this battle would be invaluable in understanding its operation having a copy of the design would cement their victory.
“I MechWarrior Berat Hordwon accept the Snow Raven victory, all Escorpión Imperio Mechs are ordered to stand down. MechWarrior Karl, we are yours to command.” He ordered slowly the fighting wound down to nothing and the Ravens stood victorious over the enemy Mechs. They now controlled the fate of these warriors and of the world.
In the coming hours Karl learned that Alec Oak had died commanding his Dervish which left command of the unit to Lieutenant Andrei Solomatin. Of the enemy MechWarriors Star Commander Pine had also died piloting his Timber Wolf with the OmniMech too badly damaged to be salvaged with his own BattleMech damaged Karl had ordered that the surviving parts of the Mech be used to repair his own while the Thermo Police got to work investigating why these people were on this world.
---
For three weeks the Thermo Police interrogated the captured warriors and those that had accompanied them. The Police’s officers found that the five Mechs had been defending nearly two hundred civilians and conventionally armed infantry soldiers who had been found encamped around their ancient Mingo-class DropShuttle almost three kilometres from the battlesite, on learning that their Mech forces had lost in battle all of the defenders had surrendered without a single shot fired.
During the interviews and interrogations that followed the Thermo Police had found that their ship had been attached to an equally ancient Conestoga-class JumpShip which had been deployed on a long-range exploration of space by the Escorpión Imperio searching for resources and worlds to capture. They had found the Imperio was a fusion of former Clan Goliath Scorpion, Ice Hellion and Steel Viper elements with a deep space periphery nation that they had captured following the loss of Clan space to the Society. Considering the age of the Conestoga, the Mingo and their Reconquista BattleMechs the Snow Ravens did not consider the Imperio to be a threat to the Raven Alliance but with the Conestoga still out there the unit had been tasked with attempting to track down the ship and establishing contact with them before they came into contact with the Alliance.
Karl had been called into what was now Captain Solomartin’s office onboard the Headquarters DropShip. Solomartin was a dark-skinned man of part Japanese descent he wore traditional Japanese styled robes instead of a uniform and he had moved his own personal set of samuri armour into the office since taking it. While the armour had no practical modern use, he knew tha the navy blue/teal set of layered leather and metal armour meant a lot to the unit’s new captain, he that Solomartin’s family came from the former-Draconis Combine world of Tabayama and that the armour had been handed down to him and it was classed as a family heirloom. The armour now dominated one side of the small office with its domed helmet and elaborate face mask staring at anyone who wished to challenge the unit’s new captain. The vibrant colours and delicate workmanship that had gone into the armour were clear to see. “Sir, reporting as ordered.”
“MechWarrior Karl, I have decided to promote you to Section Leader of the second star.”
“Section Leader?” Karl asked “that is not a Clan rank, Quineg?”
“Negative it is not, it is a Thermo Police rank. This command is not a traditional one Karl. You may gain recognition within this unit but you will still need to show your prowess in front of members of the Clan before you gain a true rank. Now I am offering you a chance to gain experience beyond your position so that when you do gain rank within the Snow Ravens you are ready for that position. Do you accept?” He asked Karl stood thinking for a moment, he should be facing MechWarriors of equal skill to him in single combat for the right to command in battle but instead he gained a fake rank inside a unit which his clan cared little for.
“Aff, Captain, I accept the challenge and opportunity. I will also take the first chance I can get when we are back in Clan space to confirm this promotion.” He said deciding to take on the challenge.
“Very good, I’d expect nothing less. Your first job is to prepare the unit for departure we have an enemy to track down.” Solomartin announced but Karl remained hovering for a moment. “A problem Section Leader?”
“Aff, what about the people on this world, they are not Snow Raven but we accepted their surrender.”
“The ruling of our Clan is that we accepted the surrender of the surviving three MechWarriors. Of those only Berat Hordwon has an active BattleMech which we will take with us. Should they prove themselves capable then they will be accepted into the Clan otherwise they will remain as Bondsmen.” Solomartin said respecting the Clan tradition of taking captured MechWarriors and giving them the chance of becoming warriors again. “The others the Clan have decided they did not engage us in combat so they will not be accepted. We will leave them here with the supplies we can afford to and with the conventional weapons they were armed with when we encountered them.”
“There is not a lot of resources on this world” Karl pointed out “our estimates suggest they will not survive long term without support.”
“Aff, that I am aware, I have made my argument to our people but they do not see the value in supporting such a small population at such a distance.” Solomartin said “unfortunately I do not have the influence to ensure they get the support they will most likely need.” He said seeing the disappointment in Karl’s face. “You are showing more concern for the population than most trueborns would” he said seeing Karl’s eyes come up in surprise “that is not a criticism Section Leader to succeed in this unit you will need it.” He said “now prepare the unit for extraction we have a hunt to continue.”
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Good to see new stuff DC.
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Good to see new stuff DC.
+1
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DS Santiago de Cuba (Stork-class DropShip)
Uncharted system near Reese Station
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
8th May 3116
For more than thirty years there had been rumours of an uncharted but habited system near Reese Station deep inside the Lyran Commonwealth but despite a search there had never been a sign of a habitable planet or moon in the area, “never that is until now.” Dr Thomas Mazzarelli thought as he stood on the command bridge of the Stork-class DropShip Santiago de Cuba he had spent a decade of his life working within his scientific fellowship searching for worlds lost off of Lyran maps during the Age of Wars and Succession Wars. Two months ago, when he was based on Reese Station the powerful telescopes there spotted what he believed to be indications of a spacer colony in this system and then only one month before scientists in the Tiruppir system looking at the same thing he had been spotted the same thing. With two pieces of evidence to back his claims his belief up Mazzarelli had been authorized to take one of his fellowships two exploration DropShips to this system. The JumpShip merchant they had hired to take them here had already continued its delivery mission and had left the system for the next month and a half the Santiago de Cuba was on its own which suited Mazzarelli just fine they could take a slow one gravity burn around the system and discover what it had hidden.
Now ten days into their forty-eight-day mission Mazzarelli was buzzing with excitement. “We have something!” One of the bridge officers shouted out he was a young man in an unmarked coverall which had been kept clean, and he was clean shaven another bonus on a civilian ship far from any oversight.
“What is it?” He called out moving towards the front of the small DropShip’s bridge past the Captain’s console “my apologies, Captain.” Mazzarelli said sheepishly nodding and backing off the Doctor was not a small man; he was not afraid to admit he enjoyed the sweeter things in life probably too much. His balding head and greying hair did little to dis-way this idea. He didn’t need to get on the wrong side of a ship’s captain this early into a trip.
“It’s your mission Doc, just turn to me when things hit the fan.” Captain Symonds said quietly he was a lot more like Mazzarelli than he’d like to admit he liked an easy life, exploration missions like this generally caused little in the way of problems he could put up with an excitable scientist or thirteen as this little trip had brought.
“Thank you, Captain,” Mazzarelli said stepping forward once again “what do you have watchman?” He asked not knowing the you man’s rank or position.
“It’s rubbish, sir, a garbage drop by the looks of it from a passing ship.” Mazzarelli beamed the biggest smile he could at the young man.
“If I were twenty years younger, I would kiss you!” He said turning back to Captain Symonds “Captain we’re on the right track you don’t get rubbish without traffic I’d like permission to bring it onboard.”
“Other people’s rubbish” Symonds repeated so he was absolutely sure. “Doctor you know that could include their… left over… bio-matter?” He asked just to make sure that the Doctor understood.
“Their shit, you can say it Captain it doesn’t hurt we’re all big boys and girls here, yes I understand Captain. We will be careful around what we find. If we can study what we have found then perhaps we can figure out how long it has been here, who left it and what kind of people they are. I might be able to tell you what they had for dinner before dumping the rubbish.”
“Ok Doc, it’s you that gets to clean the mess.” Roughly three tons of rubbish, including the expected faces, were brought onboard the DropShip giving the scientists a mini-treasure trove to fall back on.
---
Nearly a week passed and still nothing further had been found in the system Symonds was ready to give up on their search of this area and move on into their secondary search area but Mazzarelli had persevered they had entered what could only be described as a dense area of rogue planetoids and large asteroids. While none of them had atmospheres many had deep canyons and cave networks any of which could have what he wanted. Laying in his bunk Mazzarelli was convinced he was on the right trail for a find in this system so their search would continue. “Mazzarelli report to the bridge, we have something you won’t believe” it was Symonds on the ship announcer.
Mazzarelli hadn’t in his fifty-two years ever dressed so quickly moving through the small four deck Stork-class DropShip. As an aerodyne DropShip the Stork was built like a massive cargo aeroplane with the top two decks dedicated to command and the crew quarters the third deck which carried passengers while the fourth deck was twice as tall as the others and was purely a cargo bay. When in space the ship flew on its belly so the deck remained as the deck for the crew and passengers making it easier to move around without needing to rearrange things.
Entering the Stork’s bridge, he found Symonds leaning forward looking at his screens, Mazzarelli read some of the displays but mostly it didn’t make much sense to him “Captain” he said announcing his arrival.
“Doctor” Symonds said smiling turning to face him “well you said we’d find something here. Take a look.” He said inviting him to look at the screens.
“I’m looking Captain, I just don’t completely understand what I am seeing, can you direct me?”
“Right there!” He pointed up at one of the roof mounted flat screens Mazzarelli stared at it for a moment and began to understand what he was seeing. “That Doctor is a drive plume of a small vessel, probably one hundred tons or so.”
“A fighter, a patrol or scout?”
“More likely a small cargo ship of some sort given its movement profile, they are moving a little under 2G nothing fancy just avoiding the rocks, like us” the same sensor operator who had answered his query before. “It probably can go faster than it currently is but they are in no hurry to go where they are going.”
“Can we talk to them?”
“We wanted you to be here before we did.” Symonds said “Doctor, if you please, you’re on.” Mazzarelli stood up straighter at that, as straight as one could in the cramped bridge before he spoke.
“I am Doctor Thomas Mazzarelli of the Alarion Fellowship of Associated Scientists; we have come to this system on a mission of peaceful exploration and we would welcome the chance to open peaceful relations with you.” He began intending on explaining who they were and their intentions
“That got a reaction! Engine spike they are accelerating.”
“Doctor, they go much past that we’ll lose them. But in this type of belt, they are risking losing something more than just us…”
“This is the captain, everyone buckle in and prepare for reorientation” Symonds announced over the ship wide intercom “doctor, take your seat, you have one more chance to calm this down.”
“To the pilots of the small ship we are not hostile we are purely here to open peaceful relations you don’t need to run from us.” He said pleading with them to slow down and listen to his words. As he spoke Mazzarelli was climbing into his chair as the Stork re-orientated into its normal flight mode with the ship’s main engines driving the vessel forwards. If the DropShip was going to be expected to make any special manoeuvre, they couldn’t do that in the transit mode.
“They are disappearing behind that rogue planet!” The pilot said a rogue planet was a planet which didn’t have a regular orbit of its own, it was a remnant from the system’s formation and now it drifted through the asteroid belt as one of its largest contacts. Part of their next search pattern would have been to explore the planet but this new contact had brought that search forwards.
“Bring us in close and begin scans. Weapons have them ready” Symonds said catching Mazzarelli’s eye “just in case Doctor, this is still your game, I just want to be ready we’re out here on our own.” The Santiago de Cuba spun slowly around one of the small asteroids as it did the ship rolled gracefully onto its back and down towards the planet.
“We have him! He’s gone into that canyon” the dark-skinned sensor operator said tagging the region on her console. On the other consoles of the Santiago’s bridge the canyon was lit up by the vessel’s sensors.
“Helm, slow engines to station keeping keep us in orbit of this rock and in range of that canyon but no need to waste fuel.” He ordered reaching over to other controls as the helm station began to change the orientation of the ship and the power being delivered to the engines. “All hands this is the captain prepare for zero thrust operations; all crewmen not comfortable with zero-g wear your slippers we don’t know when we’ll need to use the engines in a bit.” Symonds ordered his crew into action in rapid succession the ship went from being under trust to spinning in space and breaking to nearly no velocity at all. Now the ship was flying “backwards” but at a fraction of the speed that it had been previously using minimal trust to remain above the canyon the crew may feel the occasional jolt but for the most part they would not have the benefit of thrust delivered gravity for a bit. “What have we got Sujitra?”
“Lots of rocks” the young woman said catching Symonds look out of the corner of her eye “yup, lots of rocks…” she repeated “and some metal, some high concentrations of metal about three hundred metres inside. It could be natural but at that level of concentration I’d say we’re seeing some sort of landing bay.”
“Too small for us to fit in there. If we want to drive them out, we’ll need to bring some sort of landing craft from outside the system.” Symonds said “unless you can talk them out Doctor, we’re at an impasse.”
“To the people on the colony below this is Doctor Mazzarelli, you may not be aware of this but your world is in the heart of a nation known as the Lyran Commonwealth. This nation is ruled by the Steiner family and is known in the Inner Sphere as one of the Succession States…”
“Oh boy, we’re going to be at this for a bit.” Symonds noted hearing the doctor begin his history lesson.
“Maybe not we have movement from the canyon!” Sujitra called out from her station “two small craft similar but not the same as the previous models.”
“Doctor, have you had anything from them?” Symonds asked as the two craft rose out of the canyon. His DropShip was not heavily armed and against two modern aerospace fighters they’d have not chance, but he highly doubted that these craft were modern.
“No, captain”
“Fine, my turn” Symonds said flicking a switch on his control console shutting off Mazzarelli “this is Captain Wayne Symonds of the DropShip Santiago de Cube. My DropShip is not a craft built for an invasion but we can and we will defend ourselves if we are threatened.” He said watching as the two craft continued to approach. “Final warning, identify yourselves or be subject to defence fire.”
“This is Leutenant Julie Mertens of Vendrell to DropShip we welcome you to the home space of Vendrell and the last bastion of the Protectorate of Donegal.” The heavily German accented voice said coming through the radio system. “You are intruders into our space, identify the reason you are here.”
“Protectorate of Donegal?” Symonds said looking at Mazzarelli “Doctor?”
“A precursor nation to the Lyran Commonwealth. One of House Steiner’s founding members, the richest of them, where leaders of our nation were originally born. It hasn’t existed for nearly eight hundred years…” He began to explain but Symonds raised a hand to silence him.
“Leutenant Mertens the nation you claim to represent became a founding member of the Lyran Commonwealth almost eight hundred years ago. You have been cut off for a very long time.”
“We are aware, our colony and Rijeka are happy with our isolation. We do not need to be subjugated by your Commonwealth like the Donegal was, our ancestors close to create a life for themselves in the stars away from the bigger national government which was being created.”
“The people of Donegal led the Lyran Commonwealth. Archon Robert Marsden became the Commonwealth’s first Archon, his brother Alistair the second!” Mazzarelli blurted out cutting over Symonds before the captain could speak.
“The traitor led the new Commonwealth?” Martens asked back over the open channel “Santiago hold position.” The woman said and the comm channel went silent for several minutes. Symonds looked at Mazzarelli annoyed he had broken through.
“Sorry Captain, but these people descend from ancestors who thought their nation which was rich and prosperous was going to be subjugated and broken up by the other nations of the new Commonwealth. They left based on a lie and have been cut off from the rest of us for more than seven hundred years!”
“I was getting to that point Doctor, this is going to be a lot for them to take in.”
“Third contact rising from the surface!”
“Communication from lead ship.”
“This is Leutenant Martens we are sending a small ship as there is not space for your vessel within our landing bay. You are invited to send a delegation to Vendrell to speak to our leadership.”
“Doctor, looks like we’re going for a trip.” Symonds said to the excited looking doctor.
---
An hour later the small craft carrying Dr Mazzarelli and Captain Symonds arrived on the asteroid colony of Vendrell. The small craft had been of the same design as the other two craft and had docked with the Santiago’s external docking port they had been escorted into the rear of the craft which was little more than a converted cargo space. The trip had been short the ship had landed on a landing pad which had retracted into a hanger below. They had felt the ship be pulled along the hanger floor by something as the hanger pressurized outside after several minutes their pilots entered the rear cabin through a small slide door and then the side doors of the small craft opened and a ramp extended allowing the four people to exit.
Mazzarelli and Symonds were greeted by the sight anyone would encounter if they entered a hanger of a military vessel or underground installation all of the walls were made of heavily worn metal and the area was a hive of activity. While they didn’t know if this was their only hanger Symonds could count seven of the craft similar to the three ship’s they had already encountered.
From deeper within the hanger a man wearing a grime covered black and grey coverall approached them he had a full head of greying hair and a greying beard he was easily in his early fifties and looked well for his age if a bit pale, probably due to the lack of natural exposure of sunlight. I am Administrator Daniel de Oliveira of the Vendrell Colony, welcome to our colony and the soil of the Protectorate of Donegal.” He said raising his hands openly to his side “my apologies for my appearance we had a maintenance issue which needed the hands of a trained operator.”
“Thank you for the welcome Administrator, I am Captain Wayne Symonds of the DropShip Santiago de Cuba and this is Doctor Thomas Mazzarelli of the Alarion Fellowship of Associated Scientists.”
“And you are from the Lyran Commonwealth?”
“Well less” Symonds answered the question simply.
“Our ancestors knew that one day the Commonwealth would expand to our shores. What is it the Commonwealth wants with us today?” Oliveira asked Symonds glanced at Mazzarelli who stepped forward.
“Mr Administrator, I do not know how far you think your ancestors travelled for the Commonwealth to finally reach your shores?” He asked carefully seeing a small crowd of about thirty people so far had gathered to see the visitors.
“Our ancestors travelled for approximately eighty years settling in this system in early 2420 after a critical part of their colony ship failed during transit stranding them here. They travelled far from the reach of the newly born Commonwealth and the external wars it was bringing to our lands.” He said loudly enough for the crowd to hear and be proud of their accomplishments. “While Vendrell and Rijeka are not the paradise worlds they hoped to find we have made them home.”
“I understand that and your Colony ship travelled through the Interstellar space between worlds?” He asked trying to establish exactly how they had arrived to live here.
“Yes, their ship accelerated for years and then when they ran into difficulties, they made a heroic effort to slow to a stop in this system.” Oliveira explained “our colony and Rijeka are the results of their efforts.”
“I don’t know how much you know of Interstellar travel Administrator?” Captain Symonds asked not waiting for a response “travel in normal space is significantly slower than using Jump technology and it does not travel nearly as far.”
“Yes, we are aware but our ancestors did not have the funds to move such a large population by JumpShip and they wished to move all of their supporters at once before other elements got to them. Their colony ship was the only option.”
“I can understand the issues they faced.” Symonds said “but because they used normal space travel instead of jump technology. Your people have moved a little under seven light years from Reese Station. While you have been independent and your accomplishments are your own, you are still within the heart of the nation known as Lyran Commonwealth.” He explained he could see the shock on the faces around them “now the Lyran nation is not coming here to enslave you. My ship is one of science and exploration, but what you all need to know is that you are as Lyran as anyone else even if it’s something you haven’t been able to be part of until now. And you could be in line for support from the nation’s leadership.”
“Something we can explore.” Oliveira suggested “talking of which would you like to see more of our home?” He offered and he began leading them of a tour of the facility which laid below. The top level was exclusively the hanger facility but below that there were twelve additional floors which sprawled out several kilometres in every direction housing a population of nearly twenty-five thousand. There were schools, hospitals and accommodation for all with many of the people who lived on the colony working in the maintenance of their home or on one of their satellite mining facilities.
While they were travelling Oliveira explained that Rijeka was similar to Vendrell but was nearly three days away through the asteroids and because of the size of the small craft it required several refuelling stops. The two colonies essentially operated entirely independently of each other but traded regularly for supplies and parts with members of the population occasionally choosing to settle on the other colony keeping their gene pools diverse. The news that outsiders from the Lyran Commonwealth had made contact swept through the two colonies quickly with many afraid of what the nation would do to their tiny “Protectorate” while others embraced the idea of being part of a grander nation and looked forwards to learning more about the nation their ancestors had run from.
Within weeks of the Santiago de Cuba’s arrival in the system and the return of their JumpShip a Lyran contact team is sent to the system with several cargo DropShips carrying additional supplies opening up the two colonies to the rest of the Commonwealth. The people on the DropShips brought stories into the colonies as well as resources opening up opportunities for their population elsewhere. The integration of the two colonies to the Lyran Commonwealth also brings taxes to the systems however because of their long isolation the Lyran government ensure they are introduced slowly. For Symonds and Mazzarelli their mission in the system is done initially Mazzarelli’s scientists were allowed to explore the two colonies learning a little about their culture before the Lyran contact team took over leading to their presence being addition to the needs of the project.
Border skirmish
Ziliang, Ziliang PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th May 3116
It was near the hour of midnight when the people of Ziliang realized something was wrong but things were far more advanced than they realized. Under the cover of night, the Capellan Confederation had arrived on the world with a reinforced battalion of troops which had one goal, eliminate the leadership of the world and sow chaos. The assault on Ziliang was part of a larger goal to unsettle the entire region as the Capellans made a play against their neighbouring succession state.
Their first goal on Ziliang was to target the Duke of Ziliang Marlin Alexander for death for years he had the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry on world to protect him but that elite unit was currently based off world with only the local militia unit to protect the duke. The so-called Chancellor’s Chosen Augmented Battalions were made up of mostly Stealth equipped BattleMechs and they had moved quickly breaking through defence lines to deposit numerous Battle Armoured assassins into the duke’s private residence. Having delivered his four Battle Armoured troopers to their target Sang-wei Lee Ji-sung sat in his Yamal BattleMech waiting for their return, this was a simple hit and escape mission and his sixty-ton Yamal, or Kangaroo, as the Battle Armour troopers nicknamed the design had been sent with a single mission to transport them in and get them back out.
The Yamal (Kangaroo) was a new BattleMech in the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces built at sixty tons it was capable of over eighty kilometres per hour and it was clad in thick stealth armour. The Mech had four medium lasers and a flame thrower as armament but its true asset was its armour, speed and jump jets. The Mech was designed with this sort of mission to get in unseen and to get back out before a defender could react. For this mission his unit had sent six of the Kangaroos each carrying four Battle Armoured troopers to target the duke.
Now that the Battle Armoured troopers were inside Sang-wei Lee Ji-sung sat and waited for their return the night sky on Ziliang was nice tonight there was a faint green colour coming through the clouds Ji-sung had no idea why that would be the case but he took it as a good sign. In his ten years serving with the CCAF he had served in many units but this was his first time leading an assault into the Federated Suns, his first of many. Suddenly there was signal from in front of the Mech and Ji-sung could see a Fa Shih suited trooper with an unconscious figure over their shoulder indicating for his attention.
The Kangaroo was designed to serve as a command Mech but that same facility could be locked out essentially as a cell and be used as a transport for those captured in combat. Ji-sung folded the BattleMech’s legs carefully under itself lowering the Mech’s profile to a near prone position he then flicked the toggle for the front hatch and the forward cockpit on the Mech opened. Unlike many BattleMechs with a Command Console feature the Kangaroo’s was located at the front of the Mech allowing for a prisoner to be loaded quickly into the Mech. The Battle Armoured trooper did not wait long and moved forward buckling his new passenger in place. From what Ji-sung could see she was a young woman in her early twenties still dressed in her bed clothing and wrapped in a robe. As the trooper buckled her in the pilot locked out the controls in the front compartment, he didn’t need her waking during the trip, he didn’t know who she was, the plan had not been to capture anyone. Once his passenger was buckled in the trooper withdrew from the front of his Mech and Ji-sung toggled the cockpit closed before bringing the BattleMech back to a standing position. On his main communication screen at the front of his cockpit Ji-sung could see a simple unspoken command “Go!”
Accelerating quickly Ji-sung ducked his thin BattleMech through the night streets of Ziliang while the Kangaroo weighed in at sixty tons it was not a wide BattleMechs both “arms” were more like shoulder stumps and the rest of the Mech was longer than wider with the forward mounted second cockpit and rear torso mounted jump jets. The guardian electronic counter measures suite and stealth armour combined to hide the black painted Mech from sensors but nothing could hide an eight-metre tall BattleMech charging through the city. The first patrol to see him were a pair of Sortek Mechanized Combat Vehicles which were most likely responding to the attack on the duke’s residence, their response at encountering an enemy Mech was typical and they filled the air with particle cannon fire trying to tag his Mech one blast of man-made lighting slammed into his Mech’s left torso while the other slammed into the building beside him Ji-sung took evasive action and turned his Mech to the right avoiding further fire heading down another street.
Whether it was the impact of the particle cannon or his evasive manoeuvre Lee Ji-sung’s passenger woke following the encounter with the two vehicles and she began to scream out of a mix of fear and anger. Lee quickly muted the intercom between the two cockpits, he didn’t need the distraction as they ran through the city streets. His sensors flashed up with another target a fast-moving BattleMech, he twisted his BattleMech’s torso to see if he could get a look of any targets first on his left and then on his right but nothing appeared before his Mech was hit by four tightly packed pulse laser blasts. Twisting his Mech back around he noticed it was a Gunsmith which weighed less than half the tonnage of his heavier Mech unfortunately its laser reflective armour would make his lasers far less effective against the target. Firing all four medium lasers into the target he saw that three hit their target but even with his successes due to the enemy Mech’s specialized armour he hadn’t even penetrated the Mech’s armour. He lunged the Kangaroo forwards trying to kick out at the lighter Mech, hoping to land a crippling blow, but missed the Gunsmith ran off firing its pulse lasers back at him. Lee Ji-sung wasn’t interested in trying to catch a faster light Mech instead he jumped the Kangaroo away from the lighter target more green pulse lasers filled the air but missed the flying Capellan Mech. His passenger continued to scream angrily at him as his Mech reached the top of its jump, she then continued to scream as they began to fall again. Ji-sung cut in the jump jets at the last moment softening the landing and the Kangaroo continued to run.
Unfortunately, the encounter with the Sorteks and then the Gunsmith had put him behind schedule at reaching his rendezvous point with their DropShips and now time could not be wasted. Landing Ji-Sung plotted a course for outside the city while keeping a look out for additional enemy targets his concentration on piloting the heavy Mech at speed resulted in Ji-sung missing the two Maten Scout VTOLs pass by his position fortunately the automated anti-missile system was ready and immediately engaged the incoming missiles from the two aircraft. Unlike the Gunsmith which Lee Ji-sung knew he could scare away with his Mech’s size the two VTOLs could pick away at his armour and report his Mech’s position to other enemy units meaning he had to do something about them. Stopping his progress rapidly he changed direction heading the opposite way from originally intended trying to throw off the two VTOLs. His passenger had quietened down and was not crying he wondered if she was resigned to her fate or if the heat in the cockpit had finally begun to get to her. Unfortunately, Ji-sung had no intentions of letting up launching the Mech into the air once more he triggered the four medium lasers on hitting one target with two of them, fortunately two medium lasers against a small VTOL were plenty and the small aircraft exploded, his anti-missile system engaged the incoming missiles cutting down several as fragments of the aircraft rained down on the streets below. The Kangaroo came down heavily and Lee Ji-rung ran the sixty-ton Mech back in the opposite direction. His sensors showed several enemy Mechs were combing the area looking for him, word must have been out, dodging further combat Ji-sung piloted his Kangaroo into the city river and waded towards the deepest part. From there he made slow but steady progress out of the Unfortunately, city limits his passenger had fallen unconscious during the engagement with the VTOLs so she was mercifully silent.
Once out of the city Lee Ji-sung piloted the Kamal back up onto the banks of the river. Behind him he could see the city was on fire as other members of his Chosen unit continued to harass Davion defenders. The battle for Ziliang was not over after tonight, it had just begun. He thoughts as he piloted his Mech the several kilometres south of the city back towards their DropShips. His Mech was waved directly towards their command DropShip a low to the ground Assault Triumph he was directed to lower his Mech to the ground position and open the front cockpit then his passenger was unloaded and he was directed to move again this time to the Mechbay for repairs before his next mission.
The battle for Ziliang was not over nor were the battles for eight other systems as the Capellan Confederation launched a mini-invasion of the Federated Suns testing out their new augmented battalion forces flooding the Ziliang PDZ with forces. For weeks the worlds would be contested between the Federated Suns and Capellan Confederation with four of the nine worlds Uravan, Weatogue, Ikast and Manapire falling into Capellan control and the others being contested.
News breaks a couple of days later that Duke Alexander of Ziliang had survived an attempt on his life but his daughter had been kidnapped by the invaders and that they were trying to use her as leverage over the duke as they continued to contest the world. With the news of his daughter’s abduction made public Duke Marlin Alexander has little option but to remove himself from the defence of the world hurting the AFFS defenders but maintaining their integrity. With the Duke out of the world’s defence structure the Capellans have little need for his daughter, a body of a young woman matching her description is found in the river three weeks after the battle for Ziliang once Capellan forces have been forced off the world. The cause of death is confirmed to be drowning and DNA records confirm that it was Duke Marlin Alexander’s daughter.
Solaris Racing League Practice Event
Masako, Solaris VII
Independent Clan Space
23rd May 3116
The game world, Solaris VII, continues to spin and the competitions continue to amaze spectators year-round. The Solaris Racing League event which pitted pilots in single seat conventional fighter craft racing against the clock in its opening season of 3115 was ramping up for a second run and hoping to bring in bigger more profitable audiences than the previous year the organisers of the event choose to introduce additional obstacles. A majority of the racers do not think the new additions are necessary but agree to allow them to be introduced first in the practice race outside of the small town of Masako in the Draconis Combine dominated region on the world.
The practice race is a single lap of a famed area near Masako through a nature reserve which has been surrounded by some elevated spectator areas which are used by the teams to monitor their aircraft and make refinements in a controlled area. Due to the additional areas available some VIPs, members of the press and social influencers from Solaris are allowed exclusive access to watch the practice runs with the intentions of raising the Racing League’s profile.
Unfortunately, this increased scrutiny and additional obstacles makes a mockery of the completion two pilots who were attempting to show off in front of their supporters and the press crash into some of the additional obstacles while one pilot Mathilde Noir completely loses control of her Boomerang Spotter Plane and crashes causing a huge fireball which claim’s the pilot’s life. With these accidents far more public than the SRL would like the rest of the practice sessions are cancelled and the obstacles are removed from the remainder of the season so their introduction can be properly studied.
Border conflict
Thadora’s Land, Southwest Covenant
28th May 3116
The Cirincus Federation launch several attacks on the Southwest Covenant following the failure of a trade agreement. For months the Cirincus Federation had been trying to convince the Southwest Covenant and the Zeta Quadrant worlds that an alliance with the Federation would be beneficial for all three nations, unfortunately the two smaller nations saw these suggestions exactly what they were for, the Federation attempting to conquer them without firing a shot. Both Southwest Covenant leadership and Zeta Quadrant leaderships had rejected the Cirincus Federation trade deals and now the nation was attempting to bully them into submission.
In their attacks on the Southwest Covenant the Cirincus Federation deploy entire companies of WVR-9R Wolverine BattleMechs suggesting that they were able to manufacture the BattleMech and that they had been for some time. The inclusion of so many brand-new BattleMechs are enough for Cirincus to secure control over Thadora’s Land but they are forced off the other two worlds by the dedicated defences of local militia and supporting mercenary forces. In an effort to further bolster their available forces the Southwest Covenant send addition negotiators to Galatea Station and other hiring worlds looking for mercenaries.
The Kangaroo BattleMech I found on facebook and it was created by a Xander MacLeod I'll post it in the TechLab section shortly as the designer said I could use it.
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The Yamal/Kangaroo
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/yamalkangaroo-lkg-04/msg53321/#msg53321 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/yamalkangaroo-lkg-04/msg53321/#msg53321)
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Minnetonka Hotel
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Independent Clan World
6th June 3116
It was 0402 on the morning of the 6th Jun 3116 and Reporter Sarah El-Sabbagh hadn’t had a wink of sleep, she was based three blocks from the massive Star League Stadium and it was the morning of the Forty-third Star League Games, the biggest game on Solaris schedule this week. The air was filled with the sound of low flying VTOL engines and the sirens as a group of Mao-Heng Charioteer ground vehicles sped down the street their police sirens screaming. “Ben, get them on camera then pan up and get the SWAT Carriers in the shot too. I’m going to prep the piece.” Her red Natasha Kerensky-styled hair flowing as she leaned out their hotel room window watching the convoy of vehicles pass by.
“How many calls is that today already?” Ben Tan asked leaning out the window with his Tri-vid camera capturing images of the Charioteers and the nearby VTOLs higher above there was a Cloud Nine Airship also patrolling the area Ben did his best to capture the massive delta winged craft on camera before it slipped back above the clouds. The Clan and Inner Sphere forces on Solaris had two of the thousand-ton support airships as part of their combined police and peacekeeping force rarely was it seen in public other than when they wanted it to be seen.
“At least four I’ve counted, it’s the Sixth of June, Ben everyone is jumping through hoops hoping there isn’t a repeat of previous years.” She said flipping her hair over each shoulder and opening the top button of her white shirt showing a little bit of skin didn’t hurt the ratings. She saw Ben looking at her for a moment “what? I’ve covered these games three times now, this has got to be the worse date of the year for them to hold these games, after the disaster in ‘74 they can’t afford another balls up.” She said “you got the shot?”
“I got it, we have no idea what the context of their trip is but I’ve got it.”
“Why else wake up the entire city?” She demanded with a knowing smirk, they city was on edge they were just reporting it, seeing Ben flick the switch on the camera she composed herself for a moment “ladies and gentlemen, my name is Sarah El-Sabbagh and we have just witnessed the fourth Police Call out in Solaris City in as many hours. While it has not been confirmed by authorities, we believe these call outs have been for scares over potential Sixth of June Terrorist Activities. With the Star League Games due to start in just a few short hours I’ll be staying on the pulse as we watch and pray that nothing befalls these games. I’m Sarah El-Sabbagh live from Solaris City on the Day of the Forty-third Star League Games.” She said she saw Ben cut the feed “good, cut that with your footage and upload it to the server we’re going to have a busy day ahead of us.”
“We don’t even have press credentials to get into the Stadium, the Clanners are clamping down hard on it this year even the Commission hasn’t been able to open up as much as they want.” Ben Tan complained he’d worked with Sarah for three years and he hated the Star League Games, he hated Solaris but they went where Sarah thought they’d get the best ratings looking to pick up the story that would make their careers and the games taking place on such an infamous date was too much to turn down.
The scares continued throughout the day continued with nearly the entire Police force of Solaris VII deployed in and around the Star League Stadium. Fortunately for the competitors, the spectators and the games organizers the games go on without incident with Dracois Combine Mustered Society Officer Tai-sa Kenji Shimura piloting a Hatamoto-suna Assault BattleMech winning the day over other competitors. Without access to the games and without a major story outside Sarah and Ben must wait for another story to earn them fame.
As the anniversary of the Sixth of June passes across the Inner Sphere there are several terrorist attacks claimed to have been committed by the infamous group but none are proven to be the case and all are on a far smaller scale than previously attempted by the group.
Final assault
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
12th June 3116
As the sands blew their heaviest in a century above ground the Mountain Wolfs sat in their den on Gallery and awaited their fate. Unfortunately, the warriors who remained knew this time was coming, they’d known for several days and had made peace with it. “Lyran troops have entered the base! Lyran troops have entered the base!” The warning sounded constantly as a rumble rolled through the caverns as Lyran Commonwealth Commandos approached command.
“This is Star Colonel Daniela Wolf to all Moutain Wolf forces, offer no resistance. Lyran Commanders are to be welcomed to Gallery; we are not their enemy.” The most senior Mountain Wolf warrior said standing beside the command holotank, she had been wrong, wrong so many times today was the day she’d make things a little righter. Daniela Wolf had never expected to lead so many of her people nor had she ever expected to be here at the end of her Clan’s life, she knew that day was today and there was nothing she could do about it.
It didn’t take long for the lead Lyran Commonwealth troopers to reach the command complex of the Mountain Wolves. Barging into the complex fully armoured in their Grey Death Infiltrator Battle Amour Suits their under-arm gauss rifles and firedrake needlers covering the entire room. With these weapons the four lead troopers alone could wipe out ever man and woman in the command complex in a matter of seconds.
“By the order of General of Armies Sabine Steiner, you and all Mountain Wolf forces are ordered to stand down and surrender! ” The troopers screamed. "The Mountain Wolf Clan is charged with deploying a biological weapon against the Lyran Commonwealth."
“I am Star Colonel Daniela Wolf; I am ready to offer my Clan’s unconditional surrender to your forces.” She said raising her right hand up in surrender, weeks before the Mountain Wolves had stood as allies to those of the Lyran Commonwealth now she was faced with their weapons. She understood the challenge, since returning to Gallery she had learned of the Mountain Wolf scientists actions here and in the Commonwealth beyond it made her sick to her stomach.
“Where is Riko Danvers!” The lead trooper demanded not even bothering to introduce himself, at least Daniela thought he was a he the trooper had kept his armour sealed, not that she blamed him after what the Mountain Wolf scientists had done.
There was a genetic illness that had been striking the Lyran Commonwealth for months. It appeared to pick out genetic markers in victims nearly at random but in fact it was very well designed, and it had been designed here on Gallery by Riko Danvers and his other scientists. Daniela had been assigned to Tharkad assisting in the defence of the Lyran Commonwealth and she had not seen what Danvers and his cohorts had done to the people of Gallery, her people. In the months before releasing the illness on the Lyran Commonwealth Riko Danvers had tested it first here on the native population of Gallery and then on the Mountain Wolves based here. The formerly proud Clan was now sick and dying in the caves which the Lyran Commonwealth had gifted them. There was no known cure for this virus the only way was to allow it to run its course fortunately one thing she had learned on Gallery, the virus had a shelf life which she could offer to the Commonwealth.
“Where is Riko Danvers!” The trooper repeated the under arm needler almost twitching as he spoke.
“He’s gone!” She snapped angrily. “He and his allies escaped on a trader DropShip last week. The DropShip was supposed to be taking supplies to our troops on Krevci, it did not arrive. I do not know where he is.”
“Research papers! The damage he has done to the Commonwealth may be irreparable.”
“It is not irreparable” Daniela said through the tears that were running down her wrinkled face she felt like she had aged several years in the last few days alone after seeing the destruction that she had allowed Riko Danvers to wrought here on Gallery. “We cannot undo the damage that has been done, but I have learned that the virus has a shelf life. It needs to be quarantined until its life is over and once that happens it becomes inert. Do you understand time, time is what your people need, time will eliminate this virus to a horrible memory.” She said “we have learned this here on Gallery Riko Danvers released the virus here first and devastated our lower castes with it. Time has passed now and the virus is gone. Our troops that are off world have had nothing to do with this they are innocent of what has happened but we understand that our Clan must pay a price for what we have unleashed.” She said raising her left hand and placing what she held on the table in front of her. The item had two cubes one above her closed hand and the other underneath, she held the trigger in between these two cubes tightly. “I am going to give you time, Commander, time to get your men and women out of this complex before we pay Surkai for our actions.”
“You offered your surrender; how can you turn this on us with this?”
“Our people here have done too many wrongs to simply say sorry.” Daniela explained “our troops off world will continue to serve your people when we are gone. I have ordered them to stand down without resistance, and I have ordered our JumpShips to do the same. Our legacy will survive but these caves which we have made our home in must be cleansed of the stain of our failures.” She said looking down at the device “now go! Leave us to our path!” She bellowed
The Lyran Battle Armoured troopers ran as quickly as they could through the complex of caves with the Mountain Wolves watching as they left. Each member of the Clan had been informed of Danvers actions and informed about what he had done to their people as well, each of them had accepted the chosen path of Surkai.
“All Lyran troops have left the facility. Sealing entrance doors.” The announcer said over the speakers due to the hostile nature of Gallery’s surface almost all of Wolf City had been constructed underground in a huge complex of caves. Each entrance had massive airlock like doors which could be closed to seal off the city to the outside world it would take several minutes for all the doors to close. Daniela Wolf remained silent looking at the dead mans switch in her hands, the tears continuing to flow, she could hear others were also crying as well their failure as Clansmen complete. “All… all external doors are secured. Khan Wolf, we are all ready.” The announcer said sending one final message.
Star Colonel Daniela Wolf was not Khan of the Mountain Wolf Clan. Due to the tiny remains of the Mountain Wolves, and the sway of Riko Danvers, they had never elected a Khan instead trusting Daniela and their Scientists to guide them in their rebuilding. How wrong had they been? Daniela looked around the room “it’s been an honour.” She said releasing the dead-man’s switch. Near the bottom of Wolf City a series of nuclear armed explosives detonate within moments of Daniela releasing the switch. Within hours the last remnants of the Mountain Wolf Clan are wiped from existence as the nuclear flames burns through the entire cave. The explosives cause the caves which Wolf City had been built in to collapse crushing the remains of the city in thousands of tons of rubble.
Off of Gallery the three active Clusters of Mountain Wolf troops on Kreci, Gladius and Donegal are stood down by the Lyran Commonwealth forces with the warriors all cashiered out of service and their equipment seized. While none are found to be guilty of causing harm to the Lyran Commonwealth simply no unit wishes to have them in their units. Many of the warriors leave Lyran space or head to mercenary hiring halls in the coming weeks.
As the news spreads Clan Wolf which took in the other half of Clan Mountain Wolf and remade their Clan whole following the time of the Exiles strikes the Mountain Wolf name from their Clan’s Clusters and from their Clan’s remembrance. Dozens of the warriors of the former Clan face Trials of Grievance from other Wolves throught the coming months as the Crusader Clan attempts to wipe the legacy from its ranks, only a few of the warriors including Khan Cade Kell survive the series of Trials.
Internal Management
Kaumberg, Kaumberg Archonette
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
18th June 3116
Elsewhere in the Lyran Commonwealth there is a series of terrorist attacks claimed by the Democracy Now movement. Without support from Carlisle and Tharkad the Kaumberg Lord of Lords Erich Sheridan announces the formation of the Kaumberg Archonette which will allow him to combat the movement and maintain the correct defences to be used against the encroaching Fire Mandrill Clan. This change encompasses the entirety of the Kaumberg Theatre and adds in several worlds from the Alarion Province. Erich Sheridan cites the lasting Buena Khanate as the reason behind his move to bring more worlds under Kaumberg’s control.
Spirit of Northumberland (Endevour-class Explorer)
Zebra, Deep Periphery
22nd June 3116
A flash of light and the long boxy Endevour-class Exploration Vessel Spirit of Northumberland entered a system further from the Inner Sphere than it had ever been, even further than the research colony McEvedy’s Folly. The massive rectangular gravity deck which dominated the middle of the ship began to spin almost immediately. At the rear of the vessel the huge jumpsail began to extend from the WarShip’s hull.
In the command deck Captain Bruce Barnes sat and monitored operations “deploy small craft and the MacMahon they can assist us in bringing in the cargo pods. Have their Mechs deployed along our hull towards the cargo bay.” He ordered from the ventral spire at the front of the ship the vessel’s Fortress-class DropShip detached and took up a position off the vessel’s bow. Meanwhile three small craft accelerated away from the space craft.
“They are in position.” The sensor operator “The MechWarriors are ready.” Along the hull there were now six ultra-light BattleMechs waiting to assist the crew.
“Open cargo bay – cargo operators can leave the bay but should be no further than one hundred metres from the bay doors.” The captain said near the back of the ship several power armour equipped troopers exited the vessel and took positions waiting for the cargo launch. “None of us have done this before outside simulations so be prepared for anything.” He said briefing the crew “communications raise Cassion One, have them launch package one.”
Several hundred metres away a Cassion Payload Satelite opened its first cargo bay and deployed a fifty-ton cargo pod immediately the first small craft moved in and grappled the pod beginning to drag it towards the Spirit of Northumberland once it got closer the BattleMechs and Power Armour reached out to grab the pod. The first few missed the incoming pod but the next layer of Mechs caught the Pod and passed it onto several power armoured troopers. Immediately the next small craft grappled the next pod and began to move it towards the Spirit while the first small craft moved off heading towards the second Cassion.
These two payload satellites had been deployed in this system several months before the Spirit had even left the docks they were each filled with roughly one hundred-and-fifty tons of spare parts, fuel and supplies which would help the Spirit extend its mission by several months deeper into space. This supply point and one other Whisky would serve as “pit-stops” for the vessel one heading out and one returning home.
Asset redeployment
Marduk, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
22nd June 3116
Intent on maintaining control over their salient into the Draconis Combine the Federated Suns Navy deploy the FSS Sortek, a Davion III-class Destroyer, and the FSS Lancaster, a Vincent Davion-class Destroyer, along with several support DropShips to the Marduk system on the Combine border. Their arrival comes as Warrior House Sortek, the wayward solders from the Confederated Suns, return from a raid into the Draconis Combine returning to their garrison position on Marduk with well over a company’s worth of Combine built BattleMechs.
On the planet’s surface the Warrior House’s fortification deep in the Buick Mountain Range is well under construction and is occupied by the unit and their support personnel, the facility is already capable of surviving a nuclear or orbital bombardment and is able to support nearly five thousand personnel should it be required. Deep within its training ranges the next generation of Warrior House inductees, which have been gleaned from across the Draconis March, are training ready to take their place in what is becoming a prestigious unit. Year on year more people flock to the world of Marduk looking to become associated with the Warrior House which has also led to a boon in the world’s gross national product. The world’s sole production facility Norse BattleMech Works continues to produce Griffin and Wolverine BattleMechs for the AFFS and has been working on a new variant of the Lynx BattleMech which would be produced under licence at the Marduk based plant.
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Excellent updates, and The Society is still clearly going strong, but blimey the end of the Mountain Wolves...that was a shocker!
I regretted not getting rid of them the honourable way and merging them completely with the Wolf Clan but I didn't think the Society cell would grow as well in the full Clan Wolf and I wanted Riko Danvers to have a little time (he's not done with yet). Instead it gave me a chance to play on the Lyran desperation for tech and to give them what they want. Unfortunately that backfired on them just a bit. I to-and-frowed about how to end their story with the virus having already ravaged their own population I thought this was the best way for them to go.
Into another month I've got plenty more twists and turns to come as we head into the second half of 3116.
Solaris Racing League
San Bardo Canyon, Equatus
Solaris VII, Independent Clan Territory
8th July 3116
“Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, my name is Rick De Graff and for the last thirty years I have commentated on the various competitions that have taken place here on Solaris VII.” He said beginning the broadcast in his customary manner. “I stayed on with the Leagues when the Clans came to Solaris and have seen them go from strength to strength, even though the Clan culture is completely at odds with the life of Solaris they understand the need for a good fight.” He said using the same entrance he did to almost all his shows the truth was that when other left Solaris for other markets he stayed on Solaris VII and continued to watch and commentate on the events that took place around the planet. “Today we see the start of another Solaris Racing League season after a bumpy start we have eight pilots who are ready to race it out over three circuits here in San Bardo Canyon, Deep inside Dunnet Forest and in the Slanotov Industrial Zone. A planned fourth race circuit has been cancelled following the recent virus outbreak inside the Lyran realm.” He explained “it is also my duty to inform the spectators here on Solaris and beyond that since the revelation that the virus came from the Mountain Wolves, which our Archon harboured on the world of Gallery, a planned entrance from a team representing Clan Sea Fox has also been cancelled for this year which coincides with with the closure of the borders to all non-essential travel with all of our Clan neighbours.”
While many within the Lyran realm would welcome less Clan intrusions into their territory and no doubt more extreme elements of the nation’s populace would campaign for more extensive use of biological or chemical against their Clan enemies should it make them back off most did not understand that a significant amount of trade continued between the Lyran nation and their neighbours even during war time.
“We’ll bring you the play-by-play from high above every race in what promises to be an exciting season.” Rick De Graff continued “a planned introduction of additional obstacles to this years races was stopped following several crashes during practice sessions including one which resulted in the untimely passing of Pilot Mathilde Noir.” He said as a montage of Mathilde Noir’s acrobatic performances across Solaris VII were played. “Mathilde Noir was a former six-year veteran with the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns piloting her Boomerang Scout Plane throughout combat theatres in the Federated Suns Capellan March. She came to Solaris VII in 3101 and had acrobatic shows at dozens of venues across the planet including the opening Class B season of the Solaris Games in 3106. She was an early acceptance to the planned 3116 Solaris Racing League season. She will be missed by all of us at the Solaris Racing League Team. Please join us in a moment of reflection over our lost racer!” He finished as the Lexan Oceanic Series Luxury VTOL he used as a base was joined in an arrowhead formation by the eight remaining competitors for this season with four on each side of the Lexan.
“But we have another racing season to begin!” De Graff said after several moments of silence suddenly the eight fighters sped forward away from the Lexan splitting off in different directions with the previous season’s winner Jonnie Mjalby’s ASF-23 Protector Aircraft, which had been painted in three different shades of green for this season, pulling upwards and away from the Lexan.
Over the course of the net two days the previous season’s second place finishing pilot Koskova Yartseva piloting her HL-15 Hellfish Light Attack Fighter won the racing competition. Jonnie Mjalby was able to recover from a bad start and a technical issue to finish in third place while pilot Nicolae Carpathia piloting an MSF-42 Bluehawk Combat Support came second.
Northwind Military Academy
New Lanark, Northwind
Northwind EDZ, Star League Protectorate
12th July 3116
On a bright morning at the Northwind Military Academy nearly six hundred cadets stood waiting to begin their careers as soldiers and officers of the Star League Defence Force. As they waited in the early summer sun of Northwind a chilly eastern breeze blew across the parade ground. In front of the entire class the head of the Northwind Military Academy Brigadier General Michael Maguire stepped up onto a slightly raised podium. “Good morning cadets, welcome to Northwind and to one of the Star League Defence Force’s premier Military Academies. Here we will educate you beyond the academies you have attended before, you will learn the art of war and you will learn what it is to be a member of the Inner Sphere’s primary defence force against the Clan threat. We will teach you how to serve, and how to act as members of the Star League Defence Force.” He said introducing himself and the purpose of the facility, if any of them had thought anything differently, standing silently listening to the General about six rows back from the front near the centre of the formation of cadets stood seventeen Lady Janella Lakewood a native of the world of Fletcher, she stood at one hundred-and-seventy-two centimetres tall, she had long dark hair was tied back with a red ribbon, the colour which was on her family crest. Her father had served with the SLDF in the early days of its formation and now he and her mother owned a business and land on Fletcher. She could easily have lived a life as a noblewoman on Fletcher without ever going to war but she saw it as her duty to serve in the defence of the Protectorate and of the Inner Sphere, this was the first step towards what she planned to be a long career.
Border Dispute
Land’s End Prefecture, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
18th July 3116
In an invasion of the Draconis Combine Clan Lynx invades the systems of Korramabad, Lupine V and Pusht-i-rud leading the invasion are three of Clan Lynx’s newest WarShips which had been gained in a trade with Clan Nova Cat for natural resources off of worlds taken by the Lynx Clan. As the Lynx Clan originated from Clan Nova Cat it is of little surprise that the two Clans continue to have good relations. The three systems that had been invaded had been a hot-bed for Black Dragon Society operations for decades and so they had a heavy security and infantry defence force which were completely unequipped to deal with the invading Clan forces.
On Pusht-i-rud the defence forces were not ready to face Clan Lynx forces and felt abandoned by the DCMS command their commander Sho-sho Kiyochika Kane had called for aid but that aid had been rejected, Kane did not plan on laying down for the invading forces but with an Onslaught-class Assault Frigate and several DropShips inbound he knew a defence was impossible. The Sho-sho attended a known Black Dragon hideout with his top three infantry battalion leaders each of them was armed simply with the weapons of a samurai twin swords and a single sidearm weapon.
“You have a lot of nerve attending here Sho-sho Kane-san without your military forces” the black cloaked leader said looking at him. Sho-sho Kiyochika Kane was a gaijin not born of Japanese descent, he was originally from the world of Cosenza, for nearly thirty years he had served the DCMS as an infantry and armour commander and he’d given a lot for the Draconis Combine but because of his birthright he had not raised higher than Sho-sho and he had remained on the periphery border of the Draconis Combine. Now with a Clan bearing down on him his world was under threat and he did not have the weapons to protect them, he’d been abandoned by his commanders.
“I am here to offer your forces a truce.” He said “Clan Lynx has come to this system and we” he said raising his hands to the take in the other three officers “cannot offer this world a fighting chance of remaining independent.” He said looking at the figure “we have always dealt with your people fairly, I have kept the ISF from pursuing you when it could potentially cripple your people because of the good the Kokuryu-kai have done for the people of this world.”
“Your people have benefited as well Sho-sho, yourself included, we are well aware that you have benefited personally from some of our operations.”
“Hai, that is correct” Kane admitted “and now I propose we work together for the benefit of all of our people.” He suggested “I have three Infantry DropShips available to my forces we have space onboard them to carry additional personnel over an above what we have, but I have no access to a JumpShip.”
“And why would you think that we do?”
“I am well aware that your people have access to a Starlord-class vessel and that it frequents this system bringing in supplies. Thus far you have not brought weapons, or at least you haven’t used them, here so we have allowed it to continue.”
“This world is a supply world for our people who are elsewhere.” The cloaked figure said “we could come to an arrangement Sho-sho at least until we are clear from this system. We have nearly three hundred people who we must get off this world.”
“I can help transport perhaps a third of that on board our Nagumos.”
“And we have access to a DropShip as well.” The cloaked figure said “it is being prepared as we speak and will be ready to leave shortly.”
“Then it’s agreed we’ll evacuate this system and once we are somewhere safe we will go our separate ways.” Kane suggested, the figure nodded their agreement.
Several hours later Kane’s three Nagumos were loaded up with his troops and several dozen civilians both from the infantry’s support units and from the Black Dragon Society. The three ships took off and met with the Kokuryu-kai’s Rose-class vessel and the four ships burned away from Pusht-i-rud as the Lynx Clan burned towards the planet which fell with barely a shot fired.
Aeroyard Gargain
Bearclaw, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space
26th July 3116
The streets of Bearclaw had been bathed in blood for months as the Society tried and failed to stop Clans Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion return the world to Clan hands. Hundreds of thousands of the civilian castes had been killed as the Clans wrestled with the Society to break their hold over the world with hundreds of civilians taking up arms to contest the ownership of their home, all of them hoping that returning a Clan to control over the world would make life better than what the Society had made it. Despite the heavy losses the world had finally fallen to the the Clans and it had become the fourth planet in the Homeworlds to be liberated, unfortunately the two Clans currently holding out against the Society were steadily running out of resources as their numbers of trained warriors continued to dwindle.
One the grounds of Aeroyard Gargain a pair of Clan Blood Spirit painted Guardian II Ultra-light Mechs walked by a downed Society Haze OmniMech one of the last to fall in the production centre’s grounds. When the OmniMech had run out of fight the pilot had ejected wearing a power armoured suit and continued to fight against unarmoured infantry soldiers before finally being overrun. For the most part Aeroyard Gargain had been captured intact, the Society commanders had not caused physical harm to the facilities but their electronic technicians had left several computer viruses active leading to the production facility being useless until they were cleared. The goal was clear make the facility unusable by the Clans until the Society could return and retake the facility unfortunately their destruction on the world had been complete during the last offensive and with two WarShips protecting the world from space there was little chance the Society would be returning soon.
The destroyed Haze OmniMech is from Fan XTRO Society while the Guardian II I'm using comes from Patreon creator Bishop Steiner
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Bishop always does good work!
Good to see your still at it Dragon Cat. Keep that timeliness coming.
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That was a nice addition. Thanks for sharing!
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Nice! :)
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Bishop always does good work!
Good to see your still at it Dragon Cat. Keep that timeliness coming.
Absolutely agreed and of course
Halas Manor
Amur, Oriente
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
9th August 3116
In his stately home on Oriente the Grand-duke of Oriente Jonas Halas passes away in his sleep following a massive heart attack aged on fifty-one years old. Jonas leaves behind a nation which is being pressed from two sides with the Capellan Confederation and Magistracy of Canopus both continuing to cause border issues. At twenty-two years old Sophie Halas becomes the Duchess of Oriente and becomes one of the youngest leaders in the Inner Sphere for the last year she had served with the Eagle’s Talons Special Forces Command. To show she is fully in command and control of her emotions on the day of her father’s death she visits important defence contractor Etna Foundries and tours their sprawling Battle Armour production facility. As part of the trip, she is fitted for her own suit of Leonidas Battle Armour suit which she is gifted by the company at the end of the visit. While a Land-Air Mech pilot in the District of Oriente Military the gift from the company and walks away from the facility wearing the suit. Despite her obvious personal loss, the young woman is attentive to the owners of the factory and listens carefully while asking several questions. Meanwhile Sophie’s two brothers Javier and Ralph, both twenty years old, having previously been known for stealing two Persus OmniMechs for their private use causing multiple civilian deaths and millions in damage decide the best way to honour their father is to hold a wake for him in the most expensive restaurants located within Amur in which both brothers, and over one hundred guests get very intoxicated to the point of needing city security forces to break up the party..
Elsewhere in the Free Worlds League Clan Wolf launch several assaults against the District of Marik Wolf troops resecure control over the Preston and Zortman systems and launch a deep strike onto the world of Keystone shattering the First Marik Militia which was on the planet. In space a titanic battle is unleashed as four Clan Wolf WarShips including the Battleships Nicholas Kerensky and Werewolf taken on the Loyalty Battle Group headed by the MS Loyalty, a Thera-class Carrier. While the fighters from the Loyalty cause enough damage to cripple the Nicholas Kerensky and destroy the Vampire Wolf, a Lola IV-class Destroyer and the Swingfire, a York-class Carrier, the heavy guns of the Nicholas Kerensky and Werewolf are too much for the more fragile Free Worlds League vessels. Heavy laser and particle cannon blasts shatter the spine of the MS Loyalty and her three support vessels wiping out the Battle Group.
With the Wolves in control of the Keystone system and its valuable factories the naval battles inform both sides of various weaknesses their forces still have which had cost both of them massive amounts resources and thousands of personnel. The Wolves rely too heavily on their four large Battleships to carry them to victory neglecting their aerospace fighter and DropShip forces. While the Free Worlds League Battle Groups are simply too small to hold back a dedicated Clan threat and too weak to stand toe-to-toe with the larger Clan vessels.
Border Raid
Varna, Glasgow Commonality
Capellan Confederation
13th August 3116
What was supposed to be a routine border raid on behalf of the Free Worlds League had turned heavily against the Wyld’s Jokers when a particle cannon blast from an unknown BattleMech design had impacted the head of Colonel Adam Wyld’s BattleMech and incinerated him. Now the unit was under fire from three directions and they were being herded in a direction. In her customized Ryoken II BattleMech Tassa Kay did not like being herded, she had been born a Wolf, she hunted her prey she did not follow direction.
She had come to the Free Worlds League with a desire to hunt Clan Wolf but Wyld’s Jokers had been sent against the Capellan Confederation with a promise that they would meet Clan Wolf after the “routine” raid. The difference was when they had arrived on Varna, they’d been met by an unexpected regiment of Capellan troops including an unfamiliar class of light BattleMech. The BattleMech looked like a slightly enlarged Locust with the back canted leg over a boxy torso. One arm ended in missile pods while the other had a longer barreled plasma weapon. The first four Mechs had fallen quickly however they had been replaced with more supported by several vehicles Tassa had noticed, too late as it had turned out, that some of the Mechs carried different weapons configurations with heavier weapons on some and stronger electronic signals on others. It was a new OmniMech design she hadn’t come across before, not that she expected to know all Mech designs, but now she was more curious firing a double volley of short-range missiles into one of her targets twelve short range missiles launched from the streak launchers and consumed one of the unknown OmniMechs in fire the Mech didn’t weather the fire well and fell in a crumpled heap of broken metal.
Twisting her Mech’s torso she followed a San Ku Chu tracked APC. Aiming at the APC’s side she kicked into the side of the tank tearing open the armour and crushing the vehicle’s tracks. She followed up with a pair of medium laser blasts burning the inside of the vehicle incinerating the crew. “We are going through the middle!” Tassa called out stepping forwards a Hellspawn BattleMech triggering the left torso particle cannon the man-made lightning blast crossed the short distance in moment slamming into the side of the Mech forcing it backwards as metal and weapons melted under the force of the blast. She then added a set of short-range missiles into the target causing further explosions all across the medium Mech one of the missiles penetrated the armour causing an ammo explosion within the forty-five-ton BattleMech’s body the arm of the Mech exploded outwards as armour and components flew from Hellspawn. The Mech’s engines went into a rapid shutdown cycle as the engine failed and tried to preserve itself.
“Jokers on me!” She said jumping her BattleMech into the air she triggered a particle cannon shot against a Catapult which was holding back the blast washed over the Mech’s left leg before it returned fire with twenty long range missiles. The sixty-five-ton hunched forward BattleMech was designed to bombard targets with long range missiles launched from its two over shoulder mounted launchers, a flight of missiles flew towards the Ryoken II with several of them slamming into it as the BattleMech came in for a landing. Not missing a beat Tassa Kay accelerated her Mech into a run and ran at the enemy BattleMech firing both medium lasers and a particle cannon as it went. She added missiles in as she closed and even though it turned the Ryoken II’s cockpit into a furness she was overjoyed to see the results on the Catapult which laid in a ruin at her Mech’s feet. Behind her several of the Jokers had broken through Capellan lines and were now helping other break through and escape.
The Wyld’s Jokers had been hurt by the battle and victory was clearly out of the question but Kay had hopefully saved their command which would give them a chance of another battle and another victory elsewhere. Standing clear of Capellan lines Tassa Kay watched as the Jokers continued to break through the trap that had been sent from them. Instead of continuing to run from the battle she targeted the Capellan Mechs with her two particle cannons scoring several long-range hits crippling a couple of targets, she was glad to see several of the Jokers who had escaped joined in the counter-attack. As the last of the Jokers fought their way clear Kay opened a channel to the surviving members of the unit “volley-step counter movement” she said she couldn’t bring herself to say the word withdrawal if there was ever a question about what she had said no-one voiced it instead the entire line of Jokers fired their longest ranged weapons then stepped backwards before firing again. This movement and fire repeated for nearly twenty minutes before the Capellans wisely choose to withdraw allowing the Jokers to hold the field and recover any fallen pilots before escaping the world.
Tekenotuji (Star Lord-class JumpShip)
Land’s End, Land’s End Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
22nd August 3116
The Kokuryu-kai owned Star Lord-class JumpShip Tekenotuji had been turned away from the system of Multan by DCMS commanders despite Sho-sho Kiyochika Kane vouching for the vessel and stating that their DropShips had barely escaped the Clan Lynx advance. The Lynx forces were less of a concern for the defenders of Multan due to the presence of a squadron of four Nekohono’o Assault Ships each armed with anti-WarShip Kraken Telescopic Capital Missiles. Kane had been confident when he had seen the ships that his people could help defend this world but the planetary governor and military commanders had agreed that there were was not room for Pusht-i-rud refugees and criminals and the naval forces had kept them at their JumpShip.
From Multan they had jumped again this time to the Prefecture capital Land’s End looking for a more accommodating commander unfortunately they found Clan Lynx had arrived to contest ownership of the system with an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser and a Sovetskii-Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser shooting down the DCS Sunzunami, a Kirishima II-class Cruiser, over the planet. “Evacuate the civilians onto this JumpShip and your DropShip. I will take the infantry in system and assist our forces.”
“You will be wiped out Sho-sho Kane.”
“We are still Draconis Combine warriors, our comrades are on that world, we must assist them.” He countered as another alarm sounded in the Star Lord’s compact bridge. “What is that?”
“An emergence signature another ship has arrived at the Zenith point Invader-class… belonging to Clan Lynx.”
“Could they detect us?” Kane asked despite not having rank over the Kokuryu-kai crewmen they were deferential to him and answered quickly.
“They will within moments they are deploying what looks like three Union-class DropShips all are C-type upgraded versions of the class.” The crewmen answered naming the Clan upgraded version of the DropShip class. The crewmen were little more than merchants without a uniform in sight Kane felt strange and out of place.
“Then we have our own problems” Kane said “continue the evacuation of the civilians from my DropShips we will deploy and keep them at bay until this JumpShip can jump clear.” He said reaching beyond the crewmen triggering the JumpShip’s communication array “this is Kane all civilians are to evacuate DropShips and board the Tekentoji. There is three Clan Union C-class DropShips deploying from a JumpShip at the Zenith point we must hold them off until the Tekentoji is able to jump clear. Land’s End is a contested system I will remain on the JumpShip to coordinate our defence.”
Over the next hour civilians and non-essential support personnel evacuated the DropShips while the three Clan Lynx DropShips began a slow burn around the star towards their location. As they approached the three Nagumo-class DropShips detached and began to approach them while the Rose-class DropShip also detached but remained beside the Star Lord in a defensive position.
As they approached each other both sets of three DropShips unleashed massed waves of long-range missiles supported by lasers and gauss rifles. The Clan DropShip commanders obviously thought that honour was important with each DropShip targeting a separate vessel while the three Nagumo’s targeted a single Union C. While that did mean all three of Kane’s DropShips took hits it meant a concentration of fire blew through the nose armour of the leading Union C and exposed its internals to damage. Explosive decompression's ripped through the vessel and it fell out of the formation as they approached.
To their credit the two remaining Union Cs continued their approach despite what had befallen their comrade hammering the two Nagumos as they accelerated past. At close range the Nagumos opened up with their close-range armament of short-range missiles and heavy autocannons causing more heavy damage to the two enemy vessels. Instead of turning to engage the Nagumos as they turned however the two Union Cs continued to burn towards the Tekentoji and its defending Rose. “Hoxa continue to target board and capture if you can, Kidafore and Kubara turn and assist Vittorio!” Kane ordered sending one of his three Nagumos after the enemy JumpShip hoping to bring them one extra prize. “Vittorio hold!”
As the two damaged Union Cs approached the single Rose approached them to contest the assault immediately engaging with its long-range lasers and particle cannons causing heavy damage on one of the approaching Clan Lynx vessels. “Why no missiles or gauss rifle?” Kane asked the Kokuryu-kai crewmen who remained silent. He had expected a full assault from the vessel. As they closed, he saw the lasers and particle cannons in action again along with multiple close-range lasers and pulse lasers. The firepower was enough to burn through the second Lynx DropShip knocking it out of the fight but Kane was angry he’d hoped that the Rose could hold the two ships at bay long enough for the Nagumos to close.
“You have no ammunition for the gauss rifles and missiles!” He said accusing the Kokuryu-Kai commander Shimatani Yulchiro “you played a bluff!”
“Sumimasen Sho-sho Kane we needed something to counter your ships” the older man said as the two Union Cs pounded the Rose as they flew past.
“Prepare for incoming damage!” Kane ordered watching as his two Nagumos finally opened fire on the two Lynx vessels with long range missiles and lasers targeting the rear of the two ships. Unlike their first past the two Nagumos targeted a separate vessel looking to cripple both ships engines in response the two Union Cs turned their noses back towards the charging Nagumos.
“They are breaking so they can deploy Mechs!” One of the crew called out.
“They will not get that chance open bay four, all units are to fire at will!” Kane ordered further along the hull of the Star Lord a cargo bay opened and Kane’s infantry wearing spacesuits had set up support weapons to target the incoming Union C causing heavy damage to the two Union ships. The two Union C’s rear weapons returned fire targeting the Star Lord’s cargo bay. Kane grabbed one of the handrails as the lightly armoured took damage.
“You have doomed us Kane!” Yulchiro screamed angrily as decompression alarms sounded in the Star Lord’s control room.
“No, I haven’t, I bought us time” Kane said as the two Nagumos opened fire with massed weapons which burned through both remaining armour on both DropShips knocking them out of the fight. As they did the Lynx JumpShip jumped clear of the system escaping now that the three DropShips had been knocked out. “This is Kane begin boarding operations on all three DropShips eliminate the crew, capture what you can.” Kane ordered his infantry DropShips all three Unions would potentially have Clan BattleMechs or Battle Armour which his people could use. The crew onboard the three ships could still put up a fight but he had nearly a regiment of soldiers to contest control over the ships.
Over the course of the next hour Kane’s troops secured the wreckage of the three Union C-class vessels. As expected, the surviving crews onboard the vessels put up a fight and took several of his infantry troopers with them but the battles were decided as they began. On the first Union C which had been knocked out of the fight some of the fire from the Nagumos had blown through the Mechbay and destroyed all fifteen Mechs, their MechWarriors inside their BattleMechs. The entire ship and the crew were a lost cause with a small number of infantry weapons all that was worth salvaging from the ship. On the other two ships however, there were far greater prizes several of the weapons on the DropShips themselves were salvageable as were six of the BattleMechs on one of the ships and eight of the BattleMechs from the second ship. Fourteen Clan BattleMechs it was just a shame Kane had no trained pilots for the Mechs but it was a start. None of his Nagumos were capable of carrying or deploying BattleMechs but the Rose was at least able to carry them. Following the performance of the ship in battle however Kane had insisted that an entire company of his infantry were also deployed on the ship essentially giving him full control over all of their ships. With the Lynx forces taking control over Land’s End, they had no choice but to jump again from Land’s End and look for another safe harbour.
Counter assault
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns border
27th August 3116
In response for the assault on Ziliang and the worlds around it the Federated Suns launches a near immediate counter attack with multiple mercenary and house commands sent to the region. Immediately these units reinforce Ziliang and the worlds that are confirmed to remain in Federated Suns however the Capellan March’s intention is to go far beyond that. On the morning of the 27th three Caliburn-class Battle-cruisers along with dozens of assault and troop carrier JumpShips jump into the systems of Uraven, Ikast and Westogue intending on liberating all three systems with a display of firepower. The Federated Suns remains powerful despite recent conflicts with House Kurita, and Clans Nova Cat and Snow Raven and has one of the strongest Navies. The Caliburn is a relatively new design but with no immediate naval threats the Federated Suns sees an opportunity for victory.
Unfortunately for the AFFS the Capellans had been waiting for their counter attacks. As part of their conquest of the three systems they intentionally took all three HPG stations within minutes of the arrival of a liberation force in the systems a message was sent to Capellan High Command and a counter force was launched. As the DropShips were launching from their JumpShips in each of the systems a Mandarinn Battle-cruiser and Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvette along with their own assault ships arrive in the system to assault the Federated Suns naval forces.
In both the Ikast system and Westogue the Federated Suns liberation forces including both Caliburn-class WarShips, the FSS George Hasek and FSS Morgan Hasek-Davion, being destroyed by Capellan fire. The Confederation WarShip Elia’s Promise a Shoung Bi Shou-class vessel is also destroyed in the fighting but without WarShip support the mercenary commands Beowulf Rangers and Ravannion’s Redemption are both shattered in space along with the Federated Suns line regiments the Eleventh Syrtis Fusiliers LCT and the Third St Ives Lancers LCT with a few survivors making their way to the planets in those systems to join resistance movements but for all intents and purposes they are ineffective commands.
The battle in the Uraven system however takes another turn the FSS Invincible, the Sixth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT and Eighth New Avalon Guards RCT turn on the two WarShips in the system with many DropShips all but abandoning all hope of reaching the planet while the naval units are present. With BattleMechs and Battle Armour dropped directly onto the hull of the CCSS Wu Zetian is rapidly overwhelmed as the Mandarinn-class Battle-cruiser’s weapons are destroyed by units on its very hull. The supporting Shoung Bi Shou-class vessel is brushed aside by the Invincible as the two “surprise” attack is turned back on them. With the Sixth Syrtis and Eighth New Avalon heading towards the planet Uraven is quickly returned to Federated Suns control.
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A hugely delayed update
Trial Grounds
Scientific Sector, Andrey
Tukayyid, Independent Clan Territory
9th September 3116
The PHX-HK2 Pheonix Hawk Land-Air-Mech converted into BattleMech mode as it came in for a landing on the fields in front of the testing facility on Andrey. The scientists had been working for months on a new Land-Air-Mech for use by the Clans. So far, they had tested many different configurations but they had been unable to get a design to work with an Extra-Light Engine nor with the advanced armours favoured by front-line Clan BattleMechs. Today’s test of the Pheonix Hawk, an Inner Sphere machine, tested a different technology an advanced type of Extra-Light Gyroscope much like the same technology developed by the Inner Sphere. Like the inner sphere technology that preceded it the new Clan technology split the gyroscope into two modules locating each in one of the side torsos.
“MechWarrior Avisto, how do you find the new technology?” Scientist Kojiro asked using a small hand-held radio.
“Good Scientist, the gyro works perfectly well but seems a little more unstable in Mech-mode than others. Quiaff?”
“Affirmative MechWarrior, thank you for your feedback.” He replied “bring the Mech into the bay, we have another model ready for testing tomorrow.”
“A Clan one I hope” Avisto responded as he moved the Land-Air-Mech towards the Mechbay Avisto was an old warrior by Clan standards in his late forties but he still desired what all MechWarriors desired, the best of technology and to fight in battle.
Peacekeeping Intervention
Disputed Territories, Capellan March
Federated Suns/Capellan Confederation
15th September 3116
Following heavy Capellan Confederation raids against Federated Suns territories and counter attacks by the Federated Suns Protector-General Devlin Stone fears the fighting will spread into his small Kittery Prefecture and chooses to intervene. In an effort to end the fighting closes to his border Stone deploys Kittery’s First and Second Regimental Brigades along with six WarShips to the Indicass and Hustaing systems.
Both the First, Stone’s Lament, and the Second, Stone’s Liberators, were six regiments in strength with the WarShips supporting them the SLDF troops quickly gain the upper hand against the forces on both worlds securing command of space and the skies over the worlds within hours of their arrival. On Hustaing the SLDF forces shatter the Twenty-second and Twenty-Third Liao Lancers, the Hustaing and Grand Base Regiments of that brigade, they then force the Federated Suns hired Donnel’s Commandos Mercenary Regiment to power down their weapons. The mercenary command were informed by the SLDF forces that they would be re-repatriated back to the Federated Suns once both worlds had been secured. Despite this easy victory the population were not entirely pleased with the heavy presence of SLDF troops on the streets and there were heavy protests for three weeks following their arrival. Slowly however the population began to realize the the SLDF forces had been ordered to allow them to peacefully protest and that their voices were being heard, something that rarely happened under Capellan rule. Although he had sent them as “peacekeeping” troops Protector-General Stone kept the forces in place essentially annexing control over Hustaing. With the WarShips and troops in place and a content population the Capellans had little choice but to accept the SLDF’s rule.
While on Indicass Stone’s Liberators were welcomed exactly like that as liberators by the besieged local militia forces. The Capellan raiders had resorted to using artillery strikes against civilian areas when the battle had not turned their way. The Liberators force of heavy BattleMechs quickly ran down the Capellan forces and won control of the battlefield. As the Liberators had come when the people needed them the SLDF troops were paraded through each large settlement they visited and welcomed as heroes. Within weeks of their victory Indicass held a referendum and petitioned to join the Kittery Prefecture as a full member of the Star League’s Protectorate Worlds Initiative a move which was completed by the end of 3116.
Landing Procedure
JP-M-774, Periphery
23rd September 3116
Continuing their retreat from the Clan Lynx invasion and reeling from being turned away by the DCMS Kane had led his people into the Periphery. Their JumpShip Tekenotuji, damaged in the previous encounters, had finally given up in its fight leaving them stranded in a system which had what appeared to be a single habitable planet. The still functional sensors detected what appeared to be the wreckage of a large JumpShip in orbit around the world and Kane had ordered the DropShips to head into the system hoping that they could salvage parts from the JumpShip or repair it. At the very least he hoped that the world would be a haven for them to shelter on.
Now they were approaching the planet and it was clear that the JumpShip was a wreck with a very low possibility of repairing it, they could perhaps take parts from the ship but that would have to wait. “Land us on the planet we can find somewhere to shelter our people.” Kane ordered “once we have secured out LZ we can send up a team to check on the JumpShip maybe we can salvage something.” He suggested, none of his people or their Kokuryu-kai questioned his orders. Since the discovery that their Rose-class DropShip had no ammunition for its primary weapons Shimatani Yulchiro and the others had been quieter than before with their objections.
The four DropShips hit the atmosphere minutes apart with each of the three aerodyne-type Nagumos coming in belly first while the spheroid Rose-class Vittorio entered with its engines facing the atmosphere. Once in the atmosphere they were treated to a bright world during its day cycle, and found a cold but breathable planet with wildlife detected by the DropShip’s sensors.
“Food for our people to hunt, and plenty of shelter in those caves…” Kane began to suggest before his voice trailed off “what is that?” He asked suddenly seeing something new on sensors “bring up a visual feed!” He ordered the crew onboard the DropShip Kidafore as they followed his orders the image appeared on a small screen and Kane had to lean over their shoulders in the compact bridge to see the screen. “Forget the caves, we will use those ruins. Direct the Vittorio to find a landing area and find the same for ourselves.” He said seeing the images on the screen there appeared a large facility with a ruined HPG-styled dish above it. The facility had clearly been at the centre of a large battle at one point, it looked completely abandoned and while some of the buildings were in a state of collapse others appeared sturdy enough to provide shelter.
He turned to Shimatani Yulchiro “it appears to be some sort of observation station. My infantry will scout the buildings and secure a perimetre. Your people are to remain onboard the Vittorio until we give the all clear signal.”
“Our people are trained fighters Sho-sho Kane.” Yulchiro complained
“I’m sure they are but my people have been trained to shoot those they do not recoignize when in hostile situations. Until we secure this area this world is a hostile place. Your people will stay in their DropShip understood?”
“Yes, Commander Kane, it is understood.”
“Good, I must join my people.” He said finally then he began issuing orders to his infantry battalions. Two of them would deploy in defence of the DropShips while they were grounded while the other would deploy into the ruins and secure a sufficient amount of shelter for their civilians.
The operation took the better part of a day to secure enough buildings for their people to shelter within in. It was into the night before the civilians got out of the cramped conditions on the DropShips and into the buildings. If the day was cold the night was colder while fires were set and barricades were built to shelter the people from the wind it was still colder than comfortable. Kane ordered them to “tough it out tonight and in the morning, they would look to bring portable generators from the DropShips to try and get the facilities back online.” One thing his people did establish was that this facility had once been a Stellar Research Facility run by the original Star League Defence Force, it had been abandoned during the First Succession War when the staff based there had realized they had been left behind by the Exodus Fleet. One of their JumpShips had broken down and been left in orbit.
Pirate Hunting
Kaumberg, Kaumberg Archonette
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
29th September 3116
Using power taken under the Kaumberg Protocols Archonette Erich Sheridan of Kaumberg declares the Democracy Now movement to be terrorists and pirates and with that designation declares them to be enemy combatants of the Lyran Commonwealth. No longer will it be a civilian law enforcement matter but a military one. With that he orders the six Fesnyng Rapid Response Units deployed within the Kaumberg Archonette to begin offensive operations against the movement. Each of the Fesnyng units were designed to move around a region in response to a threat independently of others and had their own DropShips and JumpShips attached. All six of the units also had integral intelligence units, infantry and armour should they need it to face any type of adversary. Within hours of the order all six units had either engaged in raids against suspected Democracy Now elements or were moving station to engage them. While deploying military forces into built up residential areas was an extreme method of dealing with a threat in Erich Sheridan’s words Democracy Now had shown they were willing to take extreme measures to resist House Steiner’s rules so House Steiners forces would respond in kind.
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Nice to see DC!
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Ooh....
No pressure but hurry up then ;)
You asked so I'll deliver, you like fireworks? I do :thumbsup: time to set some off in a few places all at once.
When writing this I realized I hadn't posted the Aumaku-class Destroyer so I'll try to sort that.
Khanate Conflict
Spica, Sea Fox claimed system
Federated Suns
2nd October 3116
On the Sea Fox claimed trade world of Spica two Khanates of Clan Sea Fox come into conflict when the Thirty-sixth Cruiser Cluster of the Fox’s Whelps Khanate challenges the elite Diamond Skate of the Deathstrike Khanate. Initially a disagreement over a trade deal quickly escalates to a fully fledged battle between a Trinary of each of the Khanate units, while this should have been the end of it with the Diamond Skate having more elite warriors and front-line technology over the second-line units of the Thirty-sixth.
Unfortunately for both units Star Colonel Shannon Vewas of the Thirty-sixth calls in a second Trinary to even things up prolonging the conflict. Word of this breaking of honour quickly spreads and a second Trinary of the Diamond Skate entered the battle on their own initiative and engaged the Thirty-sixth’s reinforcements before they could crush what remains of the Diamond Skate.
With the fighting on the planet escalating quickly things go from bad to worse for the Sea Foxes as rival aerospace fighter pilots from rival WarShips beginning calling out challenges against their opposite numbers from to opposing Khanate. If calmer heads had prevailed the commanders of the two WarShips would have contacted each other and agreed that enough was enough but they did not and the misery of Clan Sea Fox in the Spica system continued as the WarShip Triad, a Halcyon-class Cruiser, of the Fox’s Whelps Khanate and the Peuo, an Aumaku-class Destroyer, of the Deathstrike Khanate turned on each other.
WarShip battles between single WarShips tend to be short affairs especially when one of the vessels is bigger than the other. While the Halcyon-class Cruiser is a cruiser in name only at six hundred thousand tons the WarShip has a heavier armament and armour than the lighter Aumaku-class Destroyer and the Peuo is ripped open a mid-ships by the Heavy Naval Gauss Rifle and heavy autocannon armament of the Triad. While the Triad does attempt to save members of the Peuo’s crew the destroyer itself is a right off and the wreck’s multiple explosions light up the night sky as the Peuo's ammunition reserves ripped the ship apart on Spica below and shock the ground troops into calling a cease fire.
Border Skirmish
Vega District, Rasalhague Dominion
9th October 3116
Timed almost to perfection forces wearing the colours and flag of District of Dieron invade Konstance, Eltain, Shimosuma and Tsukude. The Dieron forces strike quickly and efficiently rapidly using aerial dominance to force the Rasalhague Dominion forces on the defensive. In each case the Dieron forces strike from converted cargo ships and in each case their aerospace fighter pilots first strike is against Rasalhague Dominion barracks facilities using fuel-air explosives to flatten the defensive forces.
The Dieron attacks appear to be intended as raids instead of battles of liberation their aim is to sow chaos and unsettle the populations of the worlds informing them that this is the first of many battles and that Dieron would return to liberate them. On each of the worlds the District of Dieron forces fall back and disappear almost as quickly as they came having decimated the Rasalhague garrison forces and spread their promise of liberation and that Akira Kurita’s rule will soon return to these worlds.
On Shimosuma the District of Dieron forces, tentatively identified as Forty-second Dieron Regulars, are surprised by the arrival of a second cluster of Rasalhague Dominion forces who block their path of retreat, low on ammunition and beginning to fall due to damage to their machines the Forty-second have no chance of escape. Instead of allowing their warriors to be captured their converted Mule-class DropShip unleashes a volley of capital missiles against the ground forces position. At least one of these weapons has a nuclear warhead, the entire Dieron force and 115th Strike Cluster of the Rasalhague Dominion is wiped out in a nuclear fireball.
Retirement ceremony, Medusans WarShip John Jellico (Quixote-class DropShip Tender)
Fenwick, Star League Protectorate
11th October 3116
Hanging in formation with their first Quixote-class vessel the Forrestal the recently renamed John Jellico maintained its position with the other Medusans forces. The John Jellico had been delivered a month before under the name Wasp but following the passing of the former commander of the Medusans Admiral Sandra Harrington ordered the vessel renamed in his honour. As it turned out it it was her last command of her unit before her own retirement. She and Jellico had steered the Medusans to a status shared by an elite few units to her knowledge only five other independent units had true WarShips under their command and now her command had two such vessels.
For years they had trained on how to use their original Quixote-class vessel in coordination with their DropShip forces and they would remain in the Fenwick system for several more years completing their contract before looking for new work. She’d already made a couple of suggestions to the new Medusan commanders but after today it wasn’t her choice anymore. She stood in the gravity deck of the John Jellico quietly waiting for a few minutes before the younger Medusan staff member beckoned her through. She had already officially passed the command baton to her replacement the rest of tonight was a formality the staff member waved her over and Sandra moved through the door into the massive meeting room where already the party had begun and the drink had begun to flow as the Medusans celebrated the retirement of another of their commanders.
Office of the Exarch
Geneva, Europe
Terra, Star League Protectorate
20th October 3116
Entering the bright round room in the Terran High Command Knight Christopher Johnson entered the office of the Exarch for the first time. He had been a Knight for a very short period of time and felt like he was barely fitting into the role but now the Exarch wished to see him about a new role. Christopher Johnson was nearly fifty-four years old he had been a MechWarrior serving Terra, and the Star League, for more than thirty years he had grown up under the banner of the Star League Defence Force and was at the service of whomever led Terra to future peace.
From behind an oak wood desk Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion rose from his chair while now well into his eighties the Exarch commanded respect and moved gracefully for a man of his age. While Victor had been born in the Lyran Commonwealth, been brought up as a warrior prince and won great victories leading the Federated Suns Johnson had not seen the man do anything that would harm Terra or favour either of the realms of his birth and so he was willing to give him his loyalty.
“Knight Johnson, welcome to Geneva, it’s a beautiful day.” He said waving his arms towards the large glass windows which provided the room with a lot of natural light.
“Yes, it is Exarch” he said using the man’s title, he’d heard that Victor did not like to be addressed as “Sire” despite being entitled to it by birth. “Thank you for the invitation.” He said following Victor’s gaze out of the windows.
“I hear the Tenth Knights have been busy on Fomalhaut?” The Exarch asked looking back towards him Johnson realized the older man intended on keeping him on his toes.
“Yes, Exarch, we have been helping prepare the Fomalhaut Guards for the influx of refugees we expect from the District of Dieron following the recent activities in the Rasalhague Dominion. There have also been rumblings from across the Lyran border of them potentially taking advantage of the District’s current situation and we do not want that spilling across into our borders.”
“It is… Unfortunate” Victor admitted turning away from him and walking towards the large glass doors Johnson followed at a respectful distance. Johnson took a moment to take in the Exarch while his height, or lack there of, had often been commented about during Victor’s life the man carried with him something that made you notice. Today he was dressed in a standard business suite which only carried the addition of a Star League branded cape over his shoulders. The only hint of his Lyran past was his academy scarf which had been stitched into the hem lining of the cape he wore. “Tell me, Chris, what do you see?” He asked beyond the command complex there was a mass of gardens and open space for the better part of a mile before the city of Geneva extended beyond.
“Geneva, my home, the birthplace of humanity” he said thinking about ways to describe the beautiful towers that dotted the skyscape of the city, while Christopher Johnson was not from Geneva Terra would always be his home.
“I see peace” Victor said quietly “peace bought by the power of who has the biggest gun.” He said glancing over smiling at Johnson seeing the old man smile he saw that there was still plenty going on in his mind. “The Terran Hegemony, the Star League, ComStar and now the Star League again have kept the peace on Terra because they’ve all had the biggest guns.” He said “we’ve tried to do what the Hegemony did before us in building up the Protectorate and creating safe spaces for people to grow up in peace. But we are drawing a lot of attention onto ourselves as our Protectorate worlds grow in size and prosperity.” He explained
“Because people are tired of war and see the Star League as a means of preventing a slip back towars the Succession Wars.” Johnson said “sire, with all due respect if the nations you grew up in were allowed the power, we now hold all of our worlds would suffer and heaven forbid the Clans gained that power!”
“The dark secret is Christopher” Victor said with another knowing smile “they all aready have the power they just don’t control the seats we do.”
“But they want them?”
“Of course, they do!” Victor said laughing loudly it was a deep knowing laugh “for centuries the Succession States have wanted Terra, they always will, so they can claim that they are the inheritors of humanities future. That’s why the stavag Clans want this damned place! They want to tear it all down and start again under their own banner because they know better than the rest of us.”
“What can we do? We have already built up our forces. The Protectorates, the Star Leagues, they are all standing together holding back the darkness. We are staying ahead of the nations around us, we must.”
“Yes, we must.” Victor said calmer now “the Star League Defence Force will fall Knight Johnson.” He said looking at the younger man who was shocked by the statement “already there are cracks in its foundations, cracks that began with the withdrawal of the Capellan Confederation and have continued to deepen. One of these days one world too many will break from its parent nation, or the council will make a choice that more Succession Lords do not like and then the Star League will fall.”
“It cannot be that simple, it has stood for fifty-eight years longer than I have been alive!” He said “all of the current lords were born during its existence. Many of them owe their realms continued safety to the SLDF’s presence.”
“But they have centuries of ‘freedom’ and ‘independence’” he said emphasizing the two words “while the SLDF has technically taken neither of them, year on year we do bring new worlds into our little Protectorates.”
“Quite often war-torn worlds”
“Still followers of the Succession Lords.” Victor Steiner-Davion said “and there are outside pressures which may influence what happens. We’ve already seen the troubles Dieron faces?” Johnson nodded “they’ve brought it upon themselves but the Bears have already struck four worlds sending the defenders reeling by the overwhelming force the Bears are bringing to the fight. We need to be able to hold that back too.” He said mentioning the Bears immediate response to the attacks on their Dominion, the Clan’s military wing had already struck the systems of Kaus Borealis, Kaus Australis, Kaus Media and Ascella destroying the defenders who had tried to hold each of them including one of the District of Dieron’s few WarShips which had been shattered by one of Rasalhague’s fearsome Leviathan 2 Battleships.
“Hence the SLDF and the reason it was formed. All of the nations owe the SLDF” Johnson said repeating himself. He couldn’t see how the Succession States could survive without the SLDF, or vice versa.
“We’ve built swords and shields to protect our space, Knight Johnson, but we need a set of daggers to protect us as well.” Victor said “not every weapon works against every enemy. Not every weapon works the same way in defence.”
“I thought the Knights were along those lines?” The Knights were not supposed to win wars themselves but work with other units to shore up defences and create some sort of unity in the Protectorate. “They are a different kind of weapon.”
“They are but they are also in the public eye, we need a nasty unit one that lives in the shadows is part soldier, part spy and if need be they may need to be part saboteur and part assassin.”
“A black ops unit?” Victor nodded “Exarch, we also have those in the SAS and Intelligence Commands. They are made up of the most elite warriors the SLDF has produced and can do all of those things.”
“For the SLDF, I want a unit that is loyal to two things the Protectorate and its people. Answerable to one office.” He said raising his arms “this one!”
“To you.” Johnson said accusingly
“I’m an old man Knight, I won’t be around much longer. I don’t want your loyalty, just your obedience and that of your peoples. Together we can make this Protectorate safer” Victor announced turning towards the windows once more “and protect the peace.” He said calmly turning back to Johnson “Knight, I hereby name you the Protectorate’s first Shadow Paladin. And I charge you with recruiting a group of Ghost Knights.”
“Shadow Paladin, Ghost Knights?” Johnson asked with a small amused smile at the new ranks.
“Exarch, First Prince, Archon, Prince, MechWarrior.” Victor said listing more ranks all he’d had at one point “they are just titles Paladin Johnson, titles we match our duties to. We are prisoners to duty you and I” he said seeing Johnson smirk slightly “we both chose to be here. We both chose to protect this world and those around it. I may be an off-worlder but this is home now and I am duty bound to protect it. Do your duty and carry my dagger.” He challenged the younger man.
“I accept Exarch Steiner-Davion, we will create a force capable of doing anything you need to protect the peace from the shadows.” Shadow Paladin Christopher Johnson said accepting the position.
Orbital Drop
Marius Tears, Independent World
Periphery
22nd October 3116
Explosions rocked the Cohor’s Morituri’s base on the independent world of Marius Tears as the night was lit up by a surprise attack. The world was a former world of the Marian Hegemony and when that nation had come to an end it had been cut loose by so many others. There were some large mining facilities on the world which had been dug by prisoners sent to the Marian Penal Colony on the world. These prisoners had no choice over what happened on the world its defenders had set themselves up as the new rulers keeping control with the iron fist of a gun. This had kept them in power and the population subdued until tonight.
With their headquarters on fire the few guards were assaulted by an invading force dropping from the skies around them attacking their defence positions. On each of the attacking BattleMechs and paratroopers they wore the red coloured inverted chain mail fist of Ward’s Hunters another former command of the Marian Hegemony. In a rapid surgical strike, the Ward’s Hunters eliminated the entire command structure of the Cohor’s Morituri and force the survivors to surrender. From there with the masters dead the Ward’s Hunters take control over the penal colony and the mining operations setting themselves up as the new rulers of the backwater world.
Observation post,
Ruins of Stellar Research Facility, JP-M-774
Periphery
30th October 3116
Although the ruins of JP-M-774’s Stellar Research Facility looked like they were ready to crumble at any moment from the outside, in fact while the buildings had suffered battle damage centuries before they were also often dressed to look worse to the naked eye. While the former Combine troopers who had followed Kane to this place had set up camp on the lowest levels of some of the buildings that they considered to be most stable there were dozens of buildings to explore through including the massive primary building with its ruined Hyper Puse Generator dish.
At present Kane’s people were making themselves at home and providing their people with shelter they weren’t interested in exploring the remains of the facility. This gave the other inhabitants based on the world time to set up observation posts around them watching the Combine citizens eek out an existance on the world.
“Four Three to Four One, we have sight on who we believe is their commander.” One of the observers said staring through the scope of a sniper rifle from their spot near the top of the Stellar Observation Post using the ruins to get a height advantage. There were two men who made up the observation post both dressed in gear that dated back to the first Star League. “He has shaved his head bald and tidied up his beard.” He said watching the man who still wore a Combine military uniform but with the addition of a civilian wet weather jacket JP-M-774 was well known for its bad weather during daylight hours and clear skys at night which made it well placed for a scientific base.
“Four One to Four Three, understood. We have sight of the other side of the settlement, keep up observation status.” His squad commander replied from his post across from them on the same building technically it meant that both teams could be in trouble if something befell the large building but there was no evidence that the Combine troops had such heavy weaponry beyond the weapons on their grounded DropShips.
“Affirmative, are we all going to die of old age before making contact with them?”
“Unknown Four Three, we don’t make the orders, our Brothers will decide when the time is right.” The two teams remained in their positions watching the Combine troops from afar, they would make contact when the time was right.
-
A November update with 2 additions thanks to marauder648. One is purely inspired by his Project Zhukov and uses several of the units from it (Sorry if you haven't read... and WHY?) The second part was written by marauder several months ago and has sat in the vault waiting to be used, it's gone though a little revision recently but it's still mostly his so I thank you marauder it was much appreciated.
Planetary Assault
Furillo, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
1st November 3116
Over Furillo II green coloured DropShips and fighters almost blotted out the sun as much as the cloudy weather as Clan Jade Falcon arrived on the important Lyran manufacturing world. Higher in orbit WarShips of the Lyran Commonwealth tried to stop the Jade Falcons invading but they also had Jade Falcon WarShips to contend with.
Sitting in his Jade Hawk’s cockpit seventeen-year-old MechWarrior Christian sat waiting for the order to deploy his DropShip had thankfully cleared the Lyran aerospace defences and now they were dropping quickly towards the Defiance Industries plant, their primary target. Like the majority of the warriors involved in this battle Christian hadn’t faced his first Trial of Possession today would be that for all in his unit the Tenth Jade Eyrie Cluster. They would follow in the Xi Solahma Cluster which was already engaged with the Third Arcturan Guards RCT.
The light opposite his fifty-five-ton Jade Hawk went green and Christian surged forwards through the open doors and out into the atmosphere of Furillo. Immediately he triggered the BattleMech’s partial wing built into the Mech’s back the two multi-feathered metal wings raised up behind giving Christian far better control over the fall than a Mech carrying only jump jets. He turned the BattleMech towards the ground below he fell faster and faster at one hundred metres he cut in the Jade Hawks wings further slowing the fall before the Mech slammed into a landing. During his training Christian had practiced hover-drop maneuvers but this was his first in action and he was quite happy with how it had gone.
His happiness lasted less than thirty seconds as his Jade Hawk took an autocannon salvo high on the left of its chest. He looked at who had attacked him and saw a fifty-five ton blue and red painted Uziel BattleMech. While both Mechs weighed in at the same weight Christian’s BattleMech was built with Clan technology and far superior. “Well bargained and done!” Christian responded raising his own Mech’s arm opening fire with both of his own autocannons and then both large lasers. The explosive rounds of the autocannons both slammed into the enemy Mech while one of lasers burned down across the Uziel’s left leg the other laser missing its target harmlessly.
The Lyran Mechwarrior began closing on him firing its autocannon again at the moving Jade Hawk the explosive rounds went wide missing Christian’s Mech but the pulse laser fire moments before didn’t and the green pulses burned down the Jade Hawk’s left leg. While Christian had a significant advantage in ranged firepower his Mech was also faster engaging the Myomer Acceleration Signal Circuitry (MASC) built into his Mech the Jade Hawk surged forwards at over one hundred kilometres per hour. The Uziel pilot continued to fire autocannon and pulse laser shots at his Jade Hawk but Christian ignored the damage returning fire with both of his own autocannon striking the enemy Mech’s torso the fire was enough to throw off a short-range missile volley from the Uziel and the six missiles flew into the air exploding harmlessly away from any target.
Now within range Christian launched his Mech into the air continuing to keep up the autocannon fire. Return fire from the Uziel caused minor damage against his Mech’s lower torso but Christian didn’t flinch from his target firing both lasers down on his target as the Jade Hawk’s legs struck the Uziel one leg hitting the right torso and the other tearing off the Lyran Mech’s short range missile launcher. Momentum carried the Jade Hawk forward away from the Uziel as it toppled to the ground Christian fought with all his skill to keep his own fifty-five-ton Mech standing as he ran a few steps beyond the prone Lyran Mech spinning his Mech on the spot he triggered both autocannons directly into the cockpit of the downed Lyran Mech.
Under the sustained weapons fire the Uziel’s cockpit armour failed and crumpled inwards killing the pilot. “I am Jade Falcon!” He screamed into the shared communication channel he heard others screaming the same and knew he was now a Clan warrior. Not wasting time, he spun back towards the Defiance Industries plant seeing a red and black Axman heavy Mech its massive hatchet raised as its autocannon tore open a Jade Falcon SM1 Tank Destroyer. Raising his arm mounted autocannons he fired both striking the Axman’s torso gaining the pilot’s attention.
Unlike his fight with the Uziel Christian had a different engagement method against the Axman his Mech could run circles around the heavier Mech and that’s exactly what he planned on doing. He ran across the Mech’s field of fire striking the Axman again with its autocannons. He triggered the jump jets taking the Mech cleanly over a Lyran Fafnir assault Mech with was engaging in a long-range duel with a green painted Jade Falcon Hellstar. Not interfering with the battle, he twisted the Jade Hawk’s torso and continued to fire his lasers and autocannons at the Axman which was unable to close on him due to the superior speed of the lighter Jade Hawk.
As the Lyran Axman appeared ready to fall a group of short-range missiles fired by Lyran infantry troops struck his Jade Hawk. “Stavag! The Freebirths have broken Zellbrigen!” He called out but his warned was for nothing as he saw unit’s combining fire up and down the battle line already. “I will teach you!” He cursed the infantry troops firing both autocannons down at the troops caught in the open the infantry troopers were shredded by the autocannon sub-munitions as shotgun-like rounds tore thought at least a dozen troopers. His distraction had allowed the Axman to close and its autocannon roared into action tearing off a large section of the Jade Hawk’s right torso including the partial wing there. “Stavag!” He screamed angrily twisting back to his original target striking it with both large lasers the heavy Axman had already been damaged by his concentrated fire before now and struck dead centre, the torso of the Axman was cored by the Jade Hawk’s fire, his second kill.
Christian barely had time to catch his breath before his Mech was carpeted by long range missile fire from a black and red Catapult. “I killed your Axman, I will kill you!” He said angrily running his damaged Jade Hawk towards the enemy Mech. The long-range missiles had mostly done damage to his arms and legs, fortunately none had hit his Mech’s already mangled right torso.
Intending on closing quickly he jumped and ran towards the Catapult the quick movements and changes in direction throwing off the support Mech’s fire. He fired both autocannons as he ran to keep the heat down and then added in his large lasers as he closed and was surer of good shots. The Catapult added in medium lasers in the closer ranged combat two struck his Mech’s right torso and suddenly he realized that he had lost control over the right arm, right jump jets and his engine was showing damage. “I will still kill you!” He screamed keeping his aim on the Catapult, he was inside the minimum range of the long range missiles but it still had four, no only three, medium lasers active. He didn’t care as the Jade Hawk was failing around him Christian marched forwards screaming into the communication channel “I AM JADE FALCON!” As his remaining autocannon and laser burned away at the enemy Mech. To any outsider the Jade Hawk must have looked like a zombie machine that wouldn’t die as he closed on the Catapult continuing to take hits but march forwards. The heavier Lyran support Mech suffered from a lack of armour and this was what caused its end as Christian continued to fire and scream at the Catapult the heavy Mech suffered a catastrophic failure in its ammunition storage and suddenly the entire BattleMech was engulfed in an expanding fireball. “Stavag! Freebirth!” Christian muttered as his Mech was impacted by the explosions which were rocking the Catapult. During the battle he hadn’t realized but one of the medium lasers had struck the cockpit of the Jade Hawk causing a partial collapse of his cockpit part of the BattleMech’s cockpit had struck his neurolhelmet and as the concussive blasts continued to tear apart the Catapult the Jade Hawk fell over almost in sympathy for the fallen enemy BattleMech with Christian having passed out from his injuries.
Three days later Christian woke in a Jade Falcon field hospital as he recovered from a severe concussion. He sat in bed seeing dozens of warriors his age, little more than children in the eyes of the Inner Sphere, all injured during the fighting. On his fourth day he was visited by Star Colonel Swayman Mattlov the huge elderly Elemental commander of the Tenth Jade Eyrie Cluster. He motioned to rise from his position “Neg, Christian, remain where you are.” The “Old Man” of the cluster said Mattlov was only forty-two years old but he was more than double the age of any of his former cadets turned warriors. “You did well. Three BattleMech kills in your first outing. Enough to be a Star Captain were you fighting Clan opponents but as defeated inner sphere opponents it will be enough to be a Star Commander in future deployments. Quiaff?”
“Aff, Star Colonel, did we win?”
“Aff, but at great cost we lost four Clusters of the seven we brought to this world and Defiance Industries has been gutted by the room-to-room fighting which our Elementals have been forced to fight.” He said, it was a victory but a costly one “we destroyed one of the Lyran WarShips and captured another but we lost both heavy cruisers we brought to this system.”
“A costly battle”
“Affirmative, but a victory, rest now our journey towards Terra resumes soon.” All in all two full Lyran RCTs, four Jade Falcon Clusters and three WarShips had been completely destroyed in the Furillo system. The Fourth WarShip the Danzig, a Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser, had been captured but it was crippled and wouldn’t leave the system without significant refurbishment. Elsewhere the Jade Falcons had also captured the Clotat and Laurelston systems.
Circle of Equals, Bonaventure (Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser)
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
4th November 3116
After a Snow Raven petition to claim territory on an Outworlds Alliance world is turned down by civilian governments the Clan civilian, manufacturing and scientific populations who are largely confined to the newer colonies on the outer edges of the nation’s space, to the Clan’s many Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers, which had become little more than massive cities, or to floating enclaves built on certain worlds become restless. As far as they are concerned the Clan has made the periphery nation a force to be reckoned with and that it should not be begging for scraps of territory on the developed Outworlds Alliance worlds.
In an effort to quell the growing tensions Khan Vir Sukhanov spends the month travelling to each of the Clan’s four Potemkin-class vessels. On each ship he speaks to communities of Snow Ravens onboard the WarShips and attached DropShips and explained that he was doing everything in his power to expand Raven holdings in the Outworlds Alliance but their population was still tiny compared to those in the nation and compromises had to be made. Unfortunately, his words are not enough on the WarShip Bontaventure while he was speaking a hulking ex-warrior Chara Cooper challenged the Khan to a Circle of Equals. Chara Cooper carried a Bloodname from his time as aerospace pilot ace. During his final battle he’d been shot down fighting Clan Nova Cat and lost both his right arm and leg in the crash. While he had been fitted with a cybernetic replacement leg and an arm, he had been unable to continue fighting and been relegated to the Scientific Caste. Now he stated he was challenging the Khan as was his Bloodnamed right stating he had failed their Clan and a new leader with new ideas was needed and while the challenger was not that man, he thought a change was needed with a jeering crowd at his back Sukhanov agreed to the fight.
The two agreed to fight unarmed and unaugmented by armour and space for the Circle was cleared in one of the Bontaventure’s cargo bays and witnesses gathered from the WarShip’s crew and its attached DropShips. In a drawn-out battle Sukhanov successfully broke two of the man’s ribs and one arm but a devastating strike from Cooper’s replacement leg knocks the wind out of Sukhanov shattering several ribs and in a fluid motion he snaps the Khan’s neck.
Following the shocking victory many onboard the Bonaventure call for Chara Cooper to take his rightful place as the new Khan he refused stating the Khan needed to be someone capable of fighting for his Clan and he was no longer that man. Instead, a Clan Council was to be called at the Snow Raven capital enclave on Alpheratz and it took place at the end of November. Because Chara Cooper had been victorious and he still held his Bloodname he was invited and immediately refused the position before leaving the council accepting that because he was not a warrior, he deserved no vote.
With no Khan and no front runner saKhan Adam Howe attempted to take control over the Clan but was challenged immediately and killed in a Circle of Equals. The death of the Khan and then saKhan of Clan Snow Raven leaves a power vacuum at the top of the Clan which lasts well into December as various Bloodhouses attempt to place one of their leading warriors in a leadership position.
At the end of December Galaxy Commander Porter McKenna finally filled the position of Khan after winning the vote of the Bloodnamed Council. As a MechWarrior by profession and knows that he will find holding the position difficult with so many aerospace and naval warriors at his back. To ease their fears, he nominated Star Admiral Lydia Sukhanov the commander of the Montbatton WarShip Star to be his saKhan intending on ensuring a balance remained at the top of the Clan.
In an effort to appease the Clan populations and keep the Snow Ravens on their nation’s side President Rodger Orton, the civilian leader of the Raven Alliance, informs new Khan Porter McKenna that he was personally guaranteed several land grants to the Ravens on developed worlds for the Clan’s sole use allowing hundreds of civilians to set foot on Raven Alliance soil.
Weapons development
Csesztreg, Hell’s Horses OZ
Clan Occupation Zones
17th November 3116
The Snow Raven Clan had not been the only Clan to suffer from civilian unrest however unlike the Snow Ravens Clan Hell’s Horses were suffering troubles from their subjugated populations. Unlike other Clans like the Ghost Bears, Snow Ravens, Sea Foxes and Nova Cats the Horses had maintained a strong leash on their populations reminding them that the Clan was on top and they were the lower castes. This hard-line approach had worked for the Jade Falcons and Wolves but with the Horses it was beginning to cause problems riots were common across the OZ and in some places things had escalated to terrorist cells popping up and striking at Clan positions with everything from improvised weapons such as Molotov cocktails to military equipment, which had either been stolen from the Clan, recovered from hidden caches or sneaked onto the worlds by Inner Sphere powers looking to cause trouble.
Not wanting to use front-line equipment against these groups and in an effort to counter this growing troubles Clan Hell’s Horses first introduce a new Battle Armour suite known as the Demios. The Demios is half as large as a standard Elemental suit and is designed with anti-infantry and scouting operations in mind with an extended jump range over the Elemental and multiple standard and support anti-infantry weapons the suit proves deadly in the first few weeks of deployment with the Hell’s Horses new Thunderflame Clusters however they still need heavier armour or Mech forces to engage some enemies leading to further developments.
While the Horses had already been planning on introducing several new vehicles to their Touman they chose to first test these vehicles by deploying entire stars of their new Durga VTOL, a twenty-five ton VTOL with several pulse lasers and a long range missile array, the Eris APC, a forty-ton hovercraft with several support anti-infantry weapons and a capacity to transport five tons of battle armoured infantry soldiers, and Nike IFVs, a tracked fifty-ton Infantry Fighting Vehicle which carried an autocannon and missile launcher. In an effort to test their new vehicles and battle armour they a minimum of eight battle armour stars and two stars each of the new vehicles are deployed in each cluster and their impact is immediate with multiple cells of would-be terrorists wiped out during their inception. Arguments could be made that several of these people were yet to commit acts against the Clan but the Horses were more content that the peace was being held, even if it was at the end of a gun. By the end of 3116 nine Thunderflame Clusters had been formed with several attached to the various other Hell’s Horses Galaxies.
Battlefield
Shimosuwa, Vega District
Rasalhague Dominion
22nd November 3116
The conflict which had begun with the District of Dieron’s assault on the Rasalhague Dominion was going well with Moore, Lambrecht and Kuzuu being the most recent systems to fall to the Ghost Bears assaults with heavy forces also assaulting the District’s defences on Alya.
Back in the Rasalhague Dominion however the investigation into what had happened during the District’s assaults was just beginning Point Commander Durham moved across the battlefield on Shimosuwa in his Constable Power Armour (Light) suit along with his Watch team investigating the radioactive battlefield. While the Ghost Bear warriors were happy to vent their fury and frustrations on the District of Dieron the Watch had other ideas and wanted to answers.
“Investigator Durham!” One of his warriors, Taro, called out his grey painted Constable suit was bent over a Hitotsume Kozo BattleMech, one that had caught Durham’s attention because of its heavy Draconis Combine design.
“It’s Point Commander” Durham muttered to himself, he had won the rank in combat but he was an old man and the Watch did not see battles on a regular basis “what is it Taro?” He asked keying the radio.
“I have found something; do you want to see?”
“Neg, Taro, continue your investigation” he said lifting part of a broken Rasalhague Dominion BattleMech “find all the facts then present your story to me in full, Quiaff?”
“Aff, Investigator.” The man replied Durham swore to himself as the radioactive winds blew sand against his Mech. The word of Shimosuwa had suffered this greatly from this attack, the first nuclear attack since the First and Second Succession War, but with Clan science they had hopes of cleaning up the radioactive materials and fallout completely. The Ghost Bear attacks against the District of Dieron was allowing the older warriors to die facing an enemy’s guns and was allowing many of its youngest warriors to face a real enemy. The Watch would do its duty behind the scenes and once they had found the complete story here the Clan could continue its war with the civilians fully aware of their reasons, as if the nuclear fireball hadn’t been enough. Sand blew against Durham’s Constable suit as he methodically moved from one piece of wreckage to the next.
Meeting Hall, Gravity Deck Four
CDS Titanic (Sea Fox-class ArcShip), Degholan
Clan Occupation Zone
30th November 3116
At just shy of two million tons the CDS Titanic lived up to her name. What had once been a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser was now a mobile home, factory and habitat for thousands of Clan Sea Fox personnel. Her outer hull bulged where DropShips had been permanently attached to her hull, whilst hydroponic bays dotted her flanks and spine no longer just a Troop Cruiser the Titanic like many of her sister-ships were classed by the Sea Foxes as something new, an ArcShip, with the Titanic forming the centre of power for the Bloodscent Khanate. The massive ship sat at the centre of a fleet of DropShips and fighters, patrolling round the space going leviathan like small fish following a whale. But this titan was not alone, for another leviathan of the black swam alongside her, the CSF Terror of the Deep, a Nightlord II-class Battleship, and flagship of the Faulk Khanate and of Clan Sea Fox overall. Neither ship, nor any of the other JumpShips in the system, had a lot to worry about Degholan was a system fully controlled by the Clan and today was an important day.
The Terror’s passengers and many others from the JumpShips had already been sent across to the Titanic and the two giants now cruised a few hundred meters apart as the conference started. Every Khanate had sent representatives, and it was here that financial futures and the future of their Clan would be discussed, details on profitable markets, areas of growth and shrinkage and areas to be exploited as well as new designs showcased. Following the recent fighting in the Spica system between two Khanates decisions had been made by the two Khans and the ovKhans that helped them.
As the previous presentation about a planned assault transport VTOL came to an end Sub-Chief Scientist Katya stepped up and smiled. Around her she could see hundreds of other Sea Fox personnel, Merchants, Sub-Factors, Scientists of all ranks as well as Warrior-Merchants, those bold profit and market seekers who would travel across the Sphere with minimal support seeking smaller but none the less profitable markets with nothing but their own skill and acumen to support them.
A light on the big holo-projector came on and that indicated that it was her time to start speaking. She’d won the right to give this presentation after winning a Trial where she and her competitor had been tasked with ‘fixing’ the Great Depression or at least lessening its impact. Their papers, reviewed by the Merchant Factor of the Bloodscent Khanate himself saw her declared the winner. So, taking a deep breath Katya nodded and began.
“My fellow Clansmen, I give to you today our workings from the last nine months. Whilst other Clans and the Spheroid houses are now producing greater numbers of Assault DropShips or Pocket WarShips to complement their WarShip fleets it is a market we have yet to move into. And it appears that there is a market for such vessels. The Dominion was looking at producing their own design, even before losing the WarShip Ursla Major in the Alya system, but that is caught in a bureaucratic snarl-up with the Clan unable to direct its civilian castes with enough force.” She said around the room there was a small rumble of laughter from the warrior castes. Many saw the Sea Foxes as too lenient with their Clan but the Rasalhague Dominion was even more lax with its control. “The Wolves have produced the the Isegrim but lack the facilities to produce them at a useful rate and instead of building their infrastructure they are wasting their Clan’s resources on battering the Protectorate’s borders.” She said pausing for a moment “the Wolves are an opening we should exploit. Their one shipyard is overworked in the Tamarind system and we can profit from that.” She said glancing to the side she saw ovKhan Blake Hawker who was willing her to move on with the presentation instead of giving the other Khanates advice. “The Hells Horses also have a want for an assault ship that is not a decades old Noruff. And the Ebon Guard would also desire an Assault vessel for their own uses in the defence of Tukkayid. There is also the potential to sell to the Inner Sphere, the Grand Council of course still having a say in what we can trade with our Spheroid contacts.”
There were soft chuckles round the large chamber, the Sharks sold to whom they wanted and only paid polite lip service to the edicts on trade between the Clans and Houses. Many of the warrior caste believed that the only influence any of the other Clans should have in the Sea Foxes business was should be in a Trial of Possession.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I give you our answer to this need the Nagasawa class Assault Dropship.” She said continuing the large central 3D holo-projector sprang to life, showing a perfectly clear image of a long, sleek and aggressive looking vessel. Smaller windows on the projector opened up displaying her statistics and predicted capabilities.
“Basing our design on the original Noruff, the Nagasawa is half again as large, massing three thousand tons and like the Noruff we chose to make her a fast and agile craft, with her engines producing twice the thrust of a Isegrim class vessel at full burn.” She explained as the display showed the vessel turn slowly for all to see. From the initial reactions to the ship Katya thought she heard several approving comments about the ship.
“Unlike the Isegrim though we chose not to mount any sub-capital weaponry, but chose a mixture of conventional ballistic and energy weapons. A quintet of our newest class-5 Rotary Autocannon and a quintet of Extended Range Particle cannons form the vessels primary punch whilst Extended range large lasers, twenty-tube long range missile launchers and large pulse lasers provide all round firepower. Each of the missile launchers is fitted with the latest Artemis-V tracking system whilst fifteen laser anti-missile systems provide the defences she needs.”
“This weapons fit was chosen because honestly, if she was armed with sub-capital weaponry, she would be under-gunned. There is only so much you can fit on three thousand tons after all.” There were several approving chuckles from the audience. “Each of the weapons is in its own cradle which will allow them to be fully modular, and whilst not an Omni-vessel, our testing has shown that this makes the weapons easy to maintain and refit if needed.”
More data sprang up on the holo-display including a short video, played at several times the normal speed, of Technicians working on a full-scale mock-up of a RAC-5 mounting, with the weapon being dismounted and replaced in ten minutes. The view then went to a 3D cutaway of the interior of the vessel. Katya moved round to the side; a laser pointed highlighting sections of the ships hull which peeled back to reveal the interior layout.
“Using a wide range of input and experience as well as the latest in computer modelling the interior is laid out to be efficient and comfortable. And most importantly the vessel is sturdy it is armoured with ninety tons of Ferro-Aluminum armour the Nagasawa will offer a level of protection that will allow it to a hit from even a capital scale weapon and survive something that cannot be claimed by ships of this size and many far larger vessels. Combined with the ship's speed which allows them to outrun large aerospace fighters and many medium sized ones they have the ability to move into the optimal position to bring its firepower to bare whilst taking the worst that an aggressor can throw back.”
On the holo a simulated battle took place with a Nagasawa engaged against Spheroid fighters as well as a DropShip. The simulation showed the Nagasawa’s strengths, outmaneuvering a larger Spheroid Assault DropShip and crippling its engines before chasing down medium fighters that simply could not outrun it. Watching it Katya smiled seeing the battle and being born an aerospace fighter pilot she could see how the Nagasawa could be outmaneuvered but that wasn’t to happen today those that had programmed the simulation had made sure of that.
“With their superior layout the Nagasawa promises to be easy to maintain and whilst not atmospheric capable it is capable of deep space patrols and escorting larger vessels.” The new projection showed several Nagasawas in formation with the Terror of the Deep. “The hull is also designed to be manufactured in sections, with each section fitting like a jigsaw piece. This allows for them to be constructed at smaller facilities and at greater speed than a traditionally keel or spine-built DropShip.” She explained again now the holo-projector showed several parts of the DropShip being connected together inside the pressurized cargo bay onboard an ArcShip. “This would also allow for the sections to be built and sold as needed, creating a market for spare parts or indeed, spare sections. Each of these sections when broken down will measure thirty meters in length and with this, you could fit a fully broken down Nagasawa in the cargo bay of a Mule class transport. A competent work crew could assemble the hull within a matter of weeks, but of course the fitting out, installation of electronics and the vital systems would still take months, this can shave a significant amount of time from construction and allows the Engineers to work in a safe and pressurized environment.”
“Should construction be approved we believe that the first Star of Nagasawas can be ready within four months and that would be using the production facilities we have aboard the Titanic. A fixed facility could produce them at a greater rate. And we do need these vessels.” She stressed to the gathered warriors “whilst each fleet has its defence capabilities, there are well founded concerns about what might happen if we were turned upon by any of the Great Houses or other Clans.” She said she had been ordered to avoid mentioning the recent fighting between factions of her own Clan in the Spica system, this presentation wasn’t about shaming part of their own Clan. “Whilst the other Clans simply will not turn on us enmasse, because they need us, the House Lords are far fickler.”
A low murmur went round the chamber, the words were true, whilst the ArcShips were massive and well armed, they were not battleships, and their tactical doctrine called for them to simply jump away if threatened, using DropShips and fighters as a sacrificial screen. While most ArcShips had an escorting WarShip with them none of the Clan’s vessels other than the Terror of the Deep could fight a major slugging match with the majority of the Sea Fox vessels falling into the destroyer or cruiser categories. Even the Terror of the Deep while it could hold its own in a major battle, and she was being outclassed by the latest vessels to be produced by the Clans and the Inner Sphere. There were calls by the Warriors to trade for or obtain in battle an Arbitration class vessel to help secure the Clans assets.
The holo now displayed a ‘typical’ ArcShip surrounded by a swarm of Nagasawas much like the Terror of the Deep had been, their bright engine flares driving back an off screen darkness as the symbol changed to that of the Diamond Shark’s insignia. Katya smiled as she felt she’d done well this day and it would be noted in her codex and if production was approved, promotion, prestige and profit all beckoned.
“Now moving on to a lighter subject, we feel that there is another market for us to exploit, and for this we must call upon one of our most potent forces.” Katya said, she knew about the next presentation and decided to ‘big it up’ somewhat as she stepped back. An eager and young-looking Merchant stepped up as the Scientist took her seat, smiling at the applause she received as well as notifications on her console about personal meetings regarding the design.
“I wish to thank Scientist Katya for yielding the floor and I apologies for the tonal shift. But there is a market that we have not thought to swim, one that helps all of the Clans of Kerensky, and stands to bring great profit at minimal cost and with maximum impact.”
The lights dimmed and a rather happy piece of music started playing before the holo sprang to life projecting yellow highlighted orange words that read ‘The New Adventures of Clan Spaniel!’ This then changed to ‘Uhu the Peregrine!’ Around the hall there was a collected low laughter seeing their Clan was expanding into new less natural environments. Discussions would be taken away from the main presentation halls regarding the relationships between the Khanates but nothing concrete would be agreed today instead the traders would have their day and the Clan would look towards a brighter future and away from their troubles.
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Nice!
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This is a canon dropship unless this new version of it. Sarna article (https://www.sarna.net/wiki/Nagasawa_(DropShip_class))
Canon design but I think Shadow_Wraith liked the details on how it was being built not just the design.
Time to end 3116. It's been a slog but I've gotten here. Housekeeping time as with the end of every year I'll be posting Active/Destroyed WarShips (the destroyed list is sitting at a scary 642 ships), Active Units and a map. I'll also be posting Clan Sea Foxes Aumaku-class Destroyer and the Coyotes new Redemption-class Heavy Cruiser (details of its first outing below... enjoy!
Objective Raid, Urseinova
Emris, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
3rd December 3116
In his first “out of the Capellan Confederation” mission Duke Lei Ren Liao, the third and youngest child of Chancellor Dao Shen Liao, at nineteen years of age, joins they Dynasty Guard in a raid against Emris IV. Unlike his two sisters Lei Ren had not showed any affinity to BattleMech piloting and had instead joined Battle Armour training being assigned to some of the Shen Long Battle Armour suits produced in the Confederation. Following the death of Duchess Madison Liao fighting against the Federated Suns there had been some reluctance to allow him to join the raid but Duke Lei Ren dreamed of fighting for his nation.
Now running the quad suit across ground beside the StarCorps Industries plant on the world with his squad as they ran in circles around a Longbow BattleMech the turrets on their suits backs turned towards the Longbow peppering it with slugs from their David Light Gauss Rifles. Dozens of slugs slammed into the back of the Longbow as all four troopers fired in unison tearing open the lighter armour there and causing internal damage. They continued to circle the support Mech as it tried to fire on them and missed with every shot. Duke Lei Ren Liao smiled as he continued to fire his weapons into the face of the Mech as missiles from a Capellan Confederation Catapult II also landed on target. Massive explosions rippled across the BattleMech the Shen Long suits continued their circular course firing again at the Longbow’s back causing more damage to the assault Mech’s back this time triggering ammunition explosions inside the Mech as the ammunition stores were damage. The CASE panels built into the BattleMech stopped it suffering a catastrophic explosion but the damage was enough to take it out of the fight for the rest of today.
Breaking away from the wreckage of the Longbow the Shen Long squad turned on a Stinger light BattleMech the light Mech opened fire on them with its machine guns and laser burning down one of the squad’s members but that wasn’t enough to save it from a volley of fire from the rest of the squad. The damage tore through the Stinger’s left arm snapping it in two and then more damage was done across the Mech’s torso and head. The Stinger staggered under the fire but continued to try and engage them so the remaining three Shen Long suits did exactly what they had done with the Longbow and continued to fire on the light Mech quickly bringing it down.
“Duke Liao, return to our lines”
“We are winning”
“There are reinforcements coming we must retreat.” His battalion commander ordered Lei Ren Liao looked at his suit’s sensor feed and saw at least a battalion of enemy troops closing on them. The Dynasty Guard had already netted themselves several brand-new BattleMechs from one of the storage facilities but conquest was not their intention today. “Duke Liao, did you hear me?”
“Affirmative, I am falling back” he said turning the suit’s course away from the StarCorps plant in defiance he turned the suit’s turret into his aft arc and continued to fire all four gauss rifles as did the rest of his squad. Several of the fast-moving Marik light Mechs were targeted but even the combined effort of their entire line didn’t do enough to bring any of them down. “I will return to this world.” Lei Ren vowed as the Liao line continued its retreat they would soon be off the world and heading home but it wasn’t in defeat. Duke Lei Ren Liao’s star was rising slowly but surely in the Capellan Confederation.
Ghost Bear Retribution Strikes
District of Dieron
11th December 3116
Despite an ongoing investigation in the Rasalhague Dominion into who and what had started the conflict that was at the back of the Ghost Bears minds as they dropped forces onto Rukbat, Shitara, Sabik and Atria. The Rasalhague Dominion was a nation held in a delicate balance the Ghost Bears ruled with the strength of their Touman but also as the nation had evolved more resources and leadership had been passed into the hands of the civilian castes. It was the only way for a nation the size that the Ghost Bears held to remain stable. The Sea Foxes, Nova Cats and Coyotes had identified that and their nations were growing in strength. The Jade Falcons and Wolves believed that their populations belonged on Terra and so they were constantly moving forwards deeper into the Inner Sphere abandoning previously held worlds.
As a result of this greater civilian power and influence the Ghost Bear warriors who saw themselves as the core of the nation had been more and more pushed to the side. The Rasalhague Dominion had intentionally avoided inter-clan conflicts maintaining their strength and only retaliating and blooding their forces against the Draconis Combine. Now against a threat which had been identified as one that had harmed their nation the Clan warriors would not be stopped.
On all four systems were targeted by at least two clusters due to the presence of three combined-arms regiments on Shitara the entirety of the Bear Essentials, Rho Galaxy, were deployed against them along with a WarShip to provide complete aerospace superiority. The battle started with the Eight Rasalhague Bears Cluster and the Galaxy Command Trinary dropping directly on top of basecamp of the Third Arkab Messengers Regiment. They found the base entirely unoccupied but it served as a good base camp for the Bears to operate from it also allowed the Bears to land an additional star of support DropShips unhindered by enemy fire.
Instead of being in their base the Third Messengers had joined with the Twenty-ninth District of Dieron Regulars Regiment near the capital intent opposing the landings there while the Thirty-third District of Dieron Regulars Regiment held the main spaceport. Having established air superiority within hours of their arrival Ghost Bear commander Galaxy Commander Chin Snuka ordered the spaceport bombed by aerospace fighters’ intent on picking away at the Thirty-third’s dug in defences. Initially the spaceport’s defences weathered these assaults but then the troops and the spaceport itself began to be pounded by artillery missiles fired by the support star of Polaris-class DropShips occupying the Third Messengers base. At the same time the remaining four Clusters of the Bears Essentials dropped right on top of the Twenty-ninth Regulars and Third Messengers Regiments.
It was a heavy weight slugging match on open ground with one side having control of the air and having entrenched artillery pieces with the initial ground forces charging into the thick of the battle joining the rest of the Galaxy the two regiments were encircled and annihilated to the man.
With cruise missiles falling all over the spaceport and two regiments completely the planetary governor attempted his escape heading to a DropShip located near the outskirts of the capital far from any Ghost Bears. While the aerospace fighters had been dedicated to bombing operations the WarShip Akakabuto was not, the Bergan-class Destroyer, was holding position near the Battle of Tukayyid, one of the Rasalhague Dominion’s Leviathan 2-class Battleships. Galaxy Commander Snuka had ordered that no DropShip be allowed to leave the planet, seeing the rising Bara no Ryu-class vessel the Akakabuto’s commander allowed the DropShip to rise to ten thousand metres of altitude before four heavy naval particle cannon shots sliced through the atmosphere with three connecting with the DropShip’s port side shattering armour and burning through several decks of the ship the hit killed dozens of people onboard the ship and completely severing the ship’s engines from its fuel supply. A safety feature built into the class to protect the crew from damage in space caused the engines to splutter and stop sending the ship into a horrifying dive from which there was no recovery.
The third particle cannon shot that missed the DropShip tore a three-hundred-metre-long scar across fields south of the capital striking just before the governor’s DropShip also slammed into the ground and exploded in a massive fireball. The two combined acts as well as a continuous bombardment from the Bears broke the remaining defence regiment’s will to fight and the remains of the Thirty-third laid down arms rather than face the entire Galaxy arrayed against them.
Compounding issues for the leadership of the District of Dieron was the Draconis Combine annexing the Umjiri and Junction systems with barely a shot fired as those worlds defences had been stripped to face the Rasalhague Dominion assault. On the District’s other border, the Lyran Commonwealth’s Isle of Skye region launched assaults on Skondia and Alkalurops systems securing them both and isolating both La Blon and Dormini VI from the rest of the District. While JumpShips could traverse the space in between border lines it was unsettling for Dieron as the year comes to a close to see its region of space carved up by its neighbours.
Trial of Possession, Redemption (Redemption-class Heavy Cruiser)
Engadin, Alshian District
Rasalhague Dominion
19th December 3116
With the Rasalhague Dominion busy mobilizing for their conflict with the District of Dieron and the Hell’s Horses once more preparing for assaults against the Lyran Commonwealth Clan Hell’s Horses strike at the two Clans backs with Trials of Possession against a manufacturing plant on the world of Engadin in the Rasalhague Dominion and the symbolic target of Sudeten in the Hell’s Horses OZ. Backing both of these attacks are the first two Redemption-class Heavy Cruisers built by Clan Coyote in an attempt to reinforce their naval arm. Built on a sturdy frame weighing in at eight hundred-and-seventy thousand tons, protected by heavy duty ferro lamellar type armour and armed with primarily naval autocannons and naval gauss rifles supplemented by a bevy of advanced conventional weapons and defences the ship was designed to enter and dominate the battle space around it hammering enemy opponents at all ranges.
In the Engadin system the Redemption, the lead ship in the class, had battered the Rasalhague Dominion’s Norge, a Bergan-class Destroyer, allowing ground forces to move in and secure the planet for the Hell’s Horses. The Norge and what was left of the Dominion’s Fifth Bear Regulars Cluster were now limping towards the jump point in defeat.
In the Hell’s Horses OZ the second Redemption-class vessel, the Vindication, had faced no naval forces but it had escorted the Forty-ninth Battle Cluster to victory over the Hell’s Horses recently formed Fourth Thunderflame Cluster. Their prize for their victory Sudeten was not the manufacturing giant that it once was but it was still a symbolic prize showing that the Coyotes were not just making up the numbers within Clan space but a force to be respected. In Coyote space two more Redemption-class vessels were under construction and being prepared to join their sister ships serving their Clan.
Sam Snell Trading and Warehouse Storage Depot
Algiers, Algedi
District of Dieron
22nd December 3116
Almost every house and mercenary MechWarrior and BattleMech on the planet of Algedi had been involved in the defence of Algedi as they pushed back the Ghost Bear invasion of the world holding onto it for another day. The Ghost Bears controlled the space around the world their gigantic Leviathan 2-class Battleship Rasalhague and its Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser escort having slain both Tatsumaki II-class Destroyers assigned to the defence of the system. The Bears would return to Algedi and when they did the remains of the three regiments protecting the world would more than likely fall.
For Bobby Winchester the survival of those regiments was not his concern, he’d never bought into the whole defence of a realm idea instead when darkness had fallen, he had used his Huron Warrior BattleMech to cave in the wall surrounding the Sam Snell Trading and Warehouse Storage Depot on the outskirts of Algiers, the capital of Algedi, and now he was standing guard as his employers stole several dozen crates of munitions and parts from the depot. Sam Snell Trading was a subsidiary of the Scarborough Manufacturing Annex on Algedi and was used to store items before they were taken off world, today these items would pass through a few more hands before making it off world.
“Time’s money com’on, com’on” Winchester muttered watching the crates being loaded onto the three six-wheeled Prime Movers that had been brought on this trip. Winchester wasn’t being paid by the hour he had insisted that his money be deposited into an off-world account as soon as they left this facility, he planned on staying with the Prime Movers until he’d confirmed his money was transferred and then he’d slip away to his own extraction point.
Unfortunately for Winchester and his associates the fighting for Algedi had ended far sooner than he had hoped and already he was hearing reports from the front lines that troops were returning to their bases most likely meaning that some might also be coming back here. “One to ground troops move your arse we have incoming!” He said just as his Mech was hit by four autocannons of an approaching Mauler. “I haven’t got the weapons for that big bastard, get out now!” He warned them seeing the ground troops scatter towards their lightly armoured vehicles.
So far, the Mauler appeared to be alone and it appeared like it had seen some fighting already with its armour pitted in several places, with luck it was also low on ammunition. This gave Winchester an opening he accelerated his Huron Warrior to the right just as the space he had occupied was bombarded by long range missile fire from the incoming assault Mech “no joy!” Winchester shouted twisting the Huron Warrior’s torso firing both his arm mounted weapons a pulse laser and silver bullet gauss rifles into the Mauler. It was such a large target he couldn’t miss it the pulse laser burned down the big red Mech’s left side while the Silver Bullet shattered armour plates across the Mech with its fast-flying projectiles.
The assault class Mauler attempted to track the Huron Warrior but Winchester was already moving when the laser and autocannon fire tore through the space his Mech had occupied. Activating his Mech’s supercharger, the Huron Warrior accelerated well over one hundred kilometres per hour and moved behind the Mauler giving Winchester a clear shot at its lightly armoured back Winchester quickly took a shot with both weapons neither could miss and they burned and tore open the rear of the Mauler exposing its ammunition bays and staggering the big Mech. Winchester quickly lined up a second volley against the back of the Mauler and fired he could see secondary explosions rock the Mauler as his pulse laser found the ammunition bay and the autocannon or missile rounds inside began to cook off. He savored the moment as he watched the Mauler die from within “ground forces withdraw at your leisure, I got…” Winchester never finished his sentence, he wasn’t an accomplished MechWarrior he hadn’t served in the military and hadn’t fought in any large battles, he was a criminal and he used his BattleMech as an extension of his criminal activities. If he had been trained in the military, they would have taught him to always check his surroundings and never take your safety for granted. The Mauler had been the first Mech to return to the depot for repairs but it hadn’t been alone behind it another damaged Mech was returning for repairs. The second Mech was a smaller but capable Hitotsume Kozo clad in stealth armour which had held back when they detected Winchester’s Mech and the activity at the depot now with its lance mate dispatched the second Mech had moved in behind Winchester’s Huron Warrior and with a single swipe of its Hatchet caught the Mech completely unprepared and caved in the protective armour arranged over its chest and back. The Hatchet enhanced by the Triple Strength Myomers which filled the Hitotsume Kozo’s arms dug through the Huron Warrior’s chest and into the cockpit slicing Bobby Winchester in half before he even realized what had happened to him.
As the Huron Warrior fell to the ground with Bobby Winchester either dead or close to death in its cockpit the criminals, he had been protecting had no chance of fighting off the Hitotsume Kozo and they had attempted to run into the night. With other District of Dieron forces returning to the area the entire criminal operation was hunted down and killed without any quarter given.
Amenemhat (Invader-class JumpShip)
Uncharted system, Deep Periphery
31st December 3116
Since his escape from Clan Mountain Wolf’s holdings on Gallery Scientist Riko Danvers had been at the mercy of his Society handlers he had been bundled from one DropShip to the next as they travelled across House Steiner and into the periphery. Now beyond the grasp of the Lyran Commonwealth or the Clans he had betrayed he had been taken several jumps into the periphery and felt like he was beginning to feel the effects of long-distance travel in space. Riko Danvers was now sixty-two years old even by Clan scientist standards he was old while Clan medicine could easily extend his life span over one hundred years and he’d used what drugs he could get his hands on still the effects of aging were catching up with him.
The Society had invested a lot of resources in his extraction and Danvers was not entirely sure why, his research into viruses’ augmentations had already been transmitted to his handlers, he didn’t have much more to give. The Mountain Wolf experiments had served their purposes they had shown that done correctly a virus could target specific genes and cripple a Clan.
Now standing in the Invader’s gravity deck he waited for his handler to arrive, the whole crew served the Society but none of them were willing to speak to him so he waited, on the monitors in the room he watched as the JumpShip’s massive jump sail unfolded.
“Riko Danvers, how are you doing?” His handler Joseph finally asked as he entered the room. Joseph was half his age standing at average height with short dark hair, he had a well-maintained beard and his clothing would match any traders in the Inner Sphere, he would disappear into any crowd.
“Bored, watching the lifeblood of humanity unfurl.” He said indicating to the sail without jump sails humanity would never have expanded as far as it had, while a JumpShip could use other means to charge its jump engine each of them came with additional risks of damaging the drive.
“Yes, a grand sight, but you’re watching the wrong thing.” Joseph said he smiled noticing Riko’s flinch in his use of a contraction “you’ll have to get used to lots of those where you’re going.” He said laughing at Riko’s discomfort as he reached out and changed the monitor which showed the blackness of space. On a planet you could look into the sky and see the stars and know there were systems beyond your own but here the stars were tiny compared to the black. The isolation out here must be maddening he thought. “Computer isolate area forty-two on display eight and enhance one hundred times.” Joseph ordered as he did the screen changed to show more black but this one showing a large space craft.
“What is that?” Riko asked not knowing the class of vessel it looked massive with dozens of DropShip collars and a large open area at the front which appeared to hold another vessel.
“The future” Joseph said “you’ll learn soon enough about its purpose but on that ship the Society will build a new and our dominance will stretch from the Homeworlds all the way to Terra.” Joseph boasted as the DropShip began to exit the internal bay onboard the vessel, the DropShip appeared to be covered in weapons.
And finally a Special Thanks to Maingunnery for providing us with the Society ship at the end (yes it's an Alexandria-class CoreShip)
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The new (ish) Aumakau-class Destroyer
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/aumakau-class-destroyer/ (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/aumakau-class-destroyer/)
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I Found the Redemption-class from Clan Coyote it was designed by The_Caveman and can be found on the below thread.
The fluff doesn't match the design presented as my AU is different but the design is the same. (I reserve the right to use the other two later...)
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/a-clan-warship-post-wor-coyote-heavy-cruiser/msg1166133/#msg1166133 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/a-clan-warship-post-wor-coyote-heavy-cruiser/msg1166133/#msg1166133)
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Short but fun start to 3117
Castle Dieron, Empress’ Briefing Chamber
Dieron, District of Dieron
11th January 3117
In the carnivorous round chamber deep within Castle Dieron Empress Emiko Kurita stood with former Coordinator Akira Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark. Both men were her closed advisors and wore full military uniform. The District of Dieron had not been around long enough to develop an entirely unique uniform so it followed the traditional lines of the Draconis Combine’s uniform with the Dragon replaced with Dieron’s Castle emblem on the shoulder and right side of chest. Emiko herself wore a traditional green and red silk kimono all three of them stared up at the holo-projector as the connection was made and the image began to settle. The holo-map of the District of Dieron was replaced with the emblem of House Steiner, the clenched chainmail fist before being replaced by the multi-pronged halberd insignia of Skye. Finally, the image changed to an image of Duchess Ilse Kelswa-Aten, now in her forties she still looked fit for her age with her thick dark straight hair cut short into a bob which was arranged around her face. She appeared to be wearing a business suit with a light blue shirt which was open at the top underneath. “Greetings from Skye, Duchess Emiko Kurita, Duke Akira Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark, I hope this communication finds you all well.”
“Well enough given the circumstances Duchess, we wished to enquire why Isle of Skye JumpShips have appeared in the La Blon and Dormini systems?” Emiko asked cutting to the chase immediately.
“We are there to support the forces of the District of Dieron, nothing more.” Ilse said simply with a smile “my regiments and their supporting auxiliary forces wish to provide you with the necessary manpower to hold La Blon and Dormini while also defending your District from Clan attack.” She explained further “like your nation mine is under threat from the Clans, we have faced five Clans assaulting our borders at different times and Skye stands strongly. We wish to see Dieron do the same.” She said, she neglected to mention in her statement that Skye stood with the full backing of the Lyran Commonwealth and SLDF while the District of Dieron had neither support. The Draconis Combine was opposed to the break away state's existence and they had also opposed the inclusion of the District into the Star League with the presence of SLDF forces on Dieron a holdover from previous agreements, not an official defence agreement. Emiko Kurita had no idea how the Eridani Light Hoses based on Dieron would react to an invasion against her world.
“By offering to garrison our cut off worlds?” Akira Tormark asked speaking up, recent Ghost Bear assaults had cut off both systems from the rest of the nation. While JumpShips could cover the gap it was only a matter of time before their position became untenable.
“We are offering peacekeeping troops which will free up several of your ground forces regiments to be used elsewhere.”
“It is an unprovoked…” Akira Kurita began but Empress Emiko Kurita silenced him with a single raise of her arm.
“Such assistance would greatly help our District.” She said smiling an unhappy smile “and tell me Duchess would Dormini and La Blon be the only worlds you would suggest were occupied by your peacekeepers?”
“As you ask no, we believe Ko and Lyon would be benefit from the presence of our troops too. Perhaps if we are there, as neutral forces, the Ghost Bears would realize those worlds did not need to suffer due to the host nation’s actions.”
“We did not attack the Rasalhague Dominion!” Akira Tormark snapped “we have been set up; we are just unable to provide the evidence of this because of the actions of the true culprit.” He said indicating they had their suspicions without actually naming anyone, there was only one nation it could have been that conducted the attack but that did not have to be said.
“Of course, a nuclear bomb will do that.” Ilse suggested “still my offer stands do you wish the assistance of our peacekeeping troops? If not, they will leave without incident.”
“We will contact…” Akira Tormark spoke first but like Akira Kurita he was silenced by a single wave of Emiko Kurita’s hand.
“I accept, on one condition my regiments and any civilians who wish to leave are allowed to leave.”
“Of course, our forces are not an occupation force they are simply here to support you.”
“You have my thanks Duchess Ilse Kelswa-Steiner, I will not forget what you have done for the District of Dieron today.” Emiko said finally bowing slightly to the other woman who simply smiled on the holo display. Before another word could be said Emiko cut the Interstellar link connecting Dieron to Skye.
“We will never recover those worlds.” Akira Tormark said quietly walking around the table facing the Empress “the Lyrans will dig into those systems and we will never pries them out.”
“It matters not” Emiko said dismissively seeing Tormark’s anger “we will not be able to recover anything if the Rasalhague Dominion conquer Dieron and Dyev is an opening to Dieron. Warlord redeploy all of our troops from those four systems to Dyev, they will guard us from the Bear’s invasion forces.”
“They could Passover the system” Akira Kurita suggested “come directly here, they are within range of a Lithium Fusion Battery.”
“Not likely” Tormark admitted, “the Bears like to be systematical. Look at their most recent reinforcements they hit Dublih, Albali and Ashio instead of pressing the attacks they had already made. They are seeing targets in front of them and firing, hiding nothing about their intentions.” He said the holo projector showed the Rasalhague Dominion’s most recent assaults Dublih, Albali and Ashio had all fallen within days of the invasion beginning.”
“We must stop them, bring them to the table and force them to listen to us.” Akira Kurita said “We did not start this war, individually our units cannot defend the District from the Ghost Bears, the Rasalhague Dominion invasion has proven that. But concentrated into one mighty block our forces could stop them.”
“On Dyev?” Emiko Kurita asked she did not have the military mind of the other two but could see the beginnings of a concentration of units.”
“No, too close to Dieron.” Akira Kurita suggested
“I agree” Tormark said nodding his head “we need to bring them to a world of our choosing.”
“Algedi?” Akira Kurita suggested, a heavily fortified world already it also had the manufacturing facilities to supply the defenders for a long campaign.
“Agreed, but how do we bring the Bears to that world?”
“We go there ourselves” Akira Kurita said “we inform the Rasalhague Dominion that we are ready to answer for the District of Dieron’s defence and we will defeat them and prove their accusations are wrong.”
“Challenging them will not be enough, you will need to offer them something in defeat.”
“Algedi?” Akira Kurita suggested
“One system when they are already taking many systems every month, I do not believe they will take that challenge for that prize.”
“Then there is only one solution” Warlord Akira Tormark suggested “if they defeat us the Rasalhague Dominion will have all of what is left of our nation.”
“The ComStar option” Akira Kurita commented but he saw Empress Emiko Kurita did not look happy as she read the data pad in front of her “it is the only way.”
“It is not that.” She said glancing up “the Federated Suns have landed troops in the Towne, Helen, Quentin and Murchison systems.” She said she didn’t even have to mention that House Kurita had this very morning secured control over the systems of Minakuchi, Waddesdon, Katalpha and Sutama. The troops from those systems were already in full retreat.
“The bastards have no honour. Attacking a target in the back.” Akira Tormark said angrily “we should withdraw our units if we wish to preserve our strength to use against the Rasalhague Dominion. We have three regiments worth of troops in that region.”
“Route them to Algedi” Akira Kurita ordered “Empress, with your permission we will submit our challenge to the Rasalhague Dominion and make preparations to move to Algedi?” She nodded both men bowed deeply to her authority. Akira Kurita was a former Coordinator of the Draconis Combine but everyone knew Emiko Kurita held the power on this world.
As the two men left her the Empress looked at the map, almost thirty worlds had been lost already and with their forces concentrated on Dyev and Alegdi more worlds would be vulnerable to attack. She knew what she needed to do, and she knew both men would struggle to forgive her should they survive their encounter on Algedi but it had to be done. She needed to explore options other than resisting the collected powers around her.
Border Fighting
New Samarkand Prefecture
District of Midway, Draconis Combine
23rd January 3117
With the Draconis Combine launching assaults on targets within the District of Dieron and remaining on guard against the movements of both the Federated Suns and Rasalhague Dominion attack comes from the other side of the nation as Clan Snow Raven attacks. On Zalaf the First Ghost Regiment are wiped out by the attacking clansmen on Sinope while the Twentieth District of Midway Regulars are sent reeling from Zalaf. While there are only two attacks, they rock confidence in the DCMS defences.
As the Ravens launch attacks against the Draconis Combine the Nova Cats also cause problems on the border of a Succession state winning two Trial of Possessions against the Federated Suns. Unlike the full assaults against the Draconis Combine the two battles between the Nova Cats and the AFFS are limited to a Battalion against Cluster battle with the Nova Cats victorious in both of the fights on Davisville and Mermentau. The Nova Cats invite the Federated Suns to enter in Trials of Possession against them while both were technically in conflict the Nova Cats would allow Federated Suns citizens to leave their occupied worlds should they wish and allow companies to continue to trade non-military goods with the Federated Suns.
Loading Entrance, Tower of Fronc
Paradise, Fronc
Fronc Reaches
31st January 3117
The world of Fronc was the capital of the Fronc Reaches and seemed to be a world away from the Clan invasion and any external threat. Pirates had long decided that the world wasn’t worth the effort to invade while the Taurian Concordat, Magistracy of Canopus and Capellan Confederation were little threat to the world or its nation with all having non-aggression pacts with the nation.
The Tower of Fronc sat at the middle of Paradise. It had been constructed following the independence of the Fronc Reaches from the Magistracy of Canopus and Taurian Concordat. When described as a “Tower” it was infact five buildings in very close proximity. The four corner buildings were curved on the outside and each was twelve stories high while the fifth central tower was three stories higher at fifteen. On the top there was an observation balcony which allowed the government to look over their city and look at the sand-dunes which dominated the landscape beyond the city.
As mercenary contracts went this one was easy for the Pebal Court Jesters their combined arms regiment had accepted it after a year and a half on the Canopian/Free Worlds League. During the fighting there they had salvaged multiple weapons and pieces of equipment fielded by the District of Lesnovo and now on Fronc they were slowly fitting them into their TO&E and training new recruits. The presence of an additional combined-arms regiment on the planet had allowed the Colonial Marshals to spread out and protect easier to target worlds while the Jesters provided garrison and training support.
After an extended campaign defending Bayindur from raids Infantryman Olivia Baddeley was bored she and her infantry squad had fought off a Clan invasion from the forces bringing down one of their Cheetah BattleMechs. It was only a fifteen-ton ultra-light BattleMech but they’d brought it down and now it was part of their regiment. Now she was bored guard duty of the government centre on Fronc was the complete opposite of combat.
Sitting at the gatehouse at Corner Four she was checking in vehicles to the dock it was 09:04 she was two hours and four minutes into a twelve-hour shift, the sun was beating above and it was another beautiful day on Fronc with the weather expected to hit 29C today, perfect for anything but work. Each vehicle had to be checked with a scanner and physical check before it was allowed into the service yard. She’d worked this detail for two months already and it was monotonous, the same vehicles entered the facility on the same schedules like clockwork. She looked up from her desk and saw the next truck approaching, it was a blue and green painted Iveco Burro II Super Heavy Support vehicle with the Bull logo of Taurian Freshwater Suppliers Limited. She looked up and saw the driver Randall, the same man who came in every week, heading out of the guard house she headed over towards the box truck. “Hey, hero how you doing today?” He called out of the cab window they had begun speaking during his multiple visits to the building he seemed happy to see her.
“Bored senseless” she replied heading out towards the truck looking up at him, Randall was nice on the eyes he had smooth dark skin, short cut hair and well-maintained facial hair. He had ambitions beyond Fronc and delivering fresh water unlike many on the world.
“You just want to get out there and get shot up again, don’t you?” He asked keeping things light.
“Well, you know what it’s like.” She said searching her pockets realizing she’d forgotten her scanner; it was still in the guard post.
“Yeah, it’s dangerous out there…” he said looking at her “you never know when you could have trouble.”
“You going to cause me problems Randall?” She asked half seriously, what trouble could a truck of water cause.
“I really don’t want to” he said seriously
“Good, I hate trouble” she said beginning to walk around the vehicle, she didn’t have her scanner but at the very least she could check the vehicle and have a look around. She got to the back of the vehicle and toggled the open control located there it asked for a passport and she entered the code Randall had given her the day before, it wasn’t standard procedure but they saw each other every other day and he trusted her. The door opened up and it showed a wall of water containers behind there was another line and then another line. She toggled the close and lock control before continuing to walk around around to the cab and looked back at Randall.
“No scanner?” He asked looking her over, he’d obviously expected it and the delay its use cause “hope you didn’t see anything that might worry you?”
“Nothing today, you wouldn’t cause me trouble, would you?”
“I really don’t want to” he repeated he looked more nervous this time.
“You alright Randall?”
“Yeah, I’m fine just a warm day, a lot to day no rest for the wicked” he said smirking looking up, the sky was bright above and it was warm.
“You trying to wind me up because that could be just as dangerous, you know fine I'm stuck in my little box for the next nine hours.” She warned him smiling back
“I wouldn’t do that” he said “you know what it’s like Olivia, busy, busy non-stop in my line of important work.” He said sounding like he only was half joking, they’d talked a lot she knew exactly what he thought about his job and its lack of importance, “if you’re not scanning then I guess I can continue?”
“Absolutely, carry on with your busy day, until tomorrow Randall” she said turning towards her guard post again walking away as the truck began to move again the hum of its fusion engine the only sound it made as it passed by.
Olivia Baddeley watched Randall’s vehicle continue down the slope beside her heading towards the underground loading bay before heading back towards her guard post. She barely got into the small booth and picked up her scanner when the blast wave ripped through the guard post and through the building above. The fireball moved quickly enveloping the lower area of Corner Four and the Central Tower of Fronc, while well built the Tower wasn’t designed to resist an explosion especially one from within its own basement or one quite as large as the one inside Randall’s truck. The blast quickly extended through the basement sections of all four buildings shattering the foundations of the complex and causing massive damage. Further damage was done to all five buildings as fire ripped through them overwhelming the built-in sprinkler and fire suppression systems.
All around the Tower of Fronc the blast wave shattered windows and caused minor structural damage but the damage to the Government’s centre of authority was huge. Despite the efforts of Fronc’s emergency services and the additional assistance provided by the Court Jesters the entire complex collapsed in on itself three hours after the initial explosion. By 12:32 there was nothing left of the Tower of Fronc and 80% of Fronc’s Leading Council were dead or in critical condition included in that number was Prince Marshal Dirk McEvens and his wife Edre McEvens, who were both dead, and their daughter Colonel Emma McEvens who was so badly injured she needed to be placed in a medically induced coma.
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This update sort of just flowed out of me, seemed to work pretty well and sets up a lot of things to come in the future
The next few updates will show exactly where things are going. If anyone wants to see what's happening in a specific area of the Inner Sphere, periphery or Homeworlds feel free to ask either in a comment or PM. Same with any contributions feel free as always you will have my thanks.
Border conflict
District of Dieron
2nd February 3117
As the District of Dieron calls on regiments to dig into Algedi the Draconis Combine takes advantage of the errant state’s concentration on the Rasalhague Dominion by landing troops on Shimonita, Peidmont and Chichbu taking each away from the local militia troops who have been left behind.
On Algedi Duke Akira Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark challenge the Rasalhague Dominion to come to the system and engage the District of Dieron in an honour trial to end the conflict. They state that if the Rasalhague Dominion are victorious on Algedi then the Rasalhague Dominion will gain control of all remaining District of Dieron worlds. With the Draconis Combine, Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth all already taking worlds from the District of Dieron this may be the only way for the Rasalhague Dominion to gain control over the remains of the small state. Arrayed waiting for the Rasalhague Dominion in the Algedi system are eight regiments worth of troops and three WarShips along with several support squadrons of Pocket WarShips.
Tower of Fronc VTOL Port
Paradise, Fronc
Fronc Reaches
21st February 3117
Less than half a kilometre from the rubble that was the remains of the Tower of Fronc the VTOL port had been a hive of activity since the terrorist attack which had leveled Fronc’s Parliament and killed 80% of the world’s leadership. There was a constant stream of VTOLs and ground ambulances evacuating the wounded and dead from the field hospital which had been erected at the site, around the area was an entire battalion of the Fronc Household Guard, Colonel Emma McEvens regiment, who were guarding the evacuation. Since the destruction that had been wrought on the Tower riots and internal fighting had begun threatening the security of the site. While both Dirk McEvens and his wife Edre had been found dead in the rubble while Emma McEvens had been recovered, she was badly injured was in a medically induced coma.
On the main pad of the VTOL Port there was a Cal-Boeing Swiftran. The Swiftran was a large twenty-five-ton VTOL. On each of its four upward tilted engine nacelles the four propellers turned slowly as the aircraft waited to take off. Above the Swiftran four Lamprey Transport Helicopters hovered waiting for them to be ready to move out already the infantry the Lamprey’s had brought here were moving towards ground vehicles.
Sitting in his Hound BattleMech Major Jakub Zboril monitored the situation “All Guards, the Colonel is coming out be on your guard, no-one comes through the perimetre.” He ordered as he did, he saw a group of doctors and medics moving quickly from one of the tents towards the Swiftran, already the VTOL held a half a dozen other patients all crammed in together. As the group entered the rear the four propellers began to spin quicker lifting the aircraft off the ground. “Straight to the DropShips” he commanded the pilots as the Swiftran joined the Lamprays and headed across the city.
“Guards” he said addressing his MechWarriors and ground troops “let’s get out of here, we don’t know who may still be gunning for the Colonel or for us. She needs care off world, let’s get the job done.” He commanded moving his BattleMech towards the city all around him the Guards defence lines fell into formation around him and the ground vehicles. Fronc General Hospital could care for Colonel McEvens but the world was quickly slipping into a state of Civil War and the Guards couldn’t stand against every civilian, it would turn into a bloodbath, a lot of the Guards were from Fronc and the surrounding worlds and none of them wanted to engage in combat action against their own people.
The convoy passed through the city without major incident. The streets were lined with civilians who were screaming insults and throwing items at their units but thankfully nothing that could harm an armoured vehicle or BattleMech. Fronc was a prosperous world and the Reaches had done well in recent years but without leadership, and with the massive loss of life and damage done by the bombing, uneasiness was quickly turning to fear and anger. The Guards were an easy target even though mercenaries had filled guard duty at the Tower of Fronc the Household Guard were the world’s primary defence force.
Once at the spaceport the Household Guard almost wordlessly filed into the unit’s DropShips and boosted off the planet leaving Fronc to continue to fall into disarray. The Household Guard’s plan was to take Emma McEvens out of the Reaches completely and into the Capellan Confederation to neutral ground where she could receive care away from potential threats, while many would see this as cowardice in the face of the enemy Emma McEvens, her daughter and son were the legitimate leadership of the Fronc Reaches and at the moment there was a threat against them all.
Trading Hall
Trading Post P62, Falakuma
Sea Fox Territory, Periphery
28th February 3117
While not on the grand scale of a gathering of the Clan Council on Tukayyid the small insignificant periphery world of Falakuma was the site of a gathering of the largest concentration of Clan leaders in several years. Khan Canin Rosse, the leader of Clan Nova Cat and the oldest of all the Khans, entered the chamber buried deep within the Sea Fox Trading Centre and he saw the young Khan of Clan Snow Raven Porter McKenna, the Khan of Clan Lynx Katrine Devalis and Sea Fox Snapping Jaws Khanate leader ovKhan Brad Hammond already waiting for him. Canin Rosse had taken longer to travel to this system but had also come from further afield to this meeting of the Clans.
“Khan Clan Nova Cat arriving” one of the Elemental Guards announced as he stepped into the room the man was unarmoured but still towered over Canin Rosse as he entered.
“Finally,” Katrine Devalis muttered looking up at the older man, he guessed the five years she’d had control over the Lynx Clan hadn’t mellowed her opinion towards him, he looked at her she had dyed her dark hair bright green which Canin found slightly off putting, for a woman her age she seemed to be trying to prove she was still interesting to look at.
“Welcome to our little party Khan Rosse.”
“Thank you, Khan Devalis” Canin said respectfully “Khan McKenna, nice to meet you.” At thirty-eight years old he was half Canin’s age, of average height and of an athletic build with a full head of blonde hair, unlike Canin who had now fully lost his hair. While he was advancing in age Canin still walked unaided and regularly joined his troops on the field.
“Khan Rosse welcome”
“OvKhan Hammond thank you for hosting us here.”
“It is Clan Sea Fox’s pleasure” the man said he sat in between Khan McKenna’s and Khan Rosse’s age in his early sixties maybe from his build Rosse assumed he was of an aerospace fighter pilot phenotype by birth. He was small with a larger head than naturally born humans. “Why did you want to bring our four Clans together Khan Rosse?”
“The Succession States are a problem” Khan Rosse began moving to the oval table in the room he sat down at one end of the table while Khan McKenna and Khan Devalis took either side of the table and ovKhan Hammond took the far end chair.
“Really? You brought us all that way to tell us that?” Devalis said angrily standing up her green hair moving creating a wave of hair over her head.
“The Draconis Combine detonated a nuclear bomb on the soil of the Rasalhague Dominion” Rosse said bluntly, Devalis and the others looked stunned and she slowly sat down again.
“You cannot know that; I do not know that yet and I am closer to the Bears than you are Rosse.” Hammond stated his voice raising slightly he sounded angry thinking that Canin would be willing to lie to get them onboard with a plan.
“Your Clan may be closer to the Bears than the Nova Cats are but we have capable people in the correct places.”
“Spies” Devalis almost spat angrily, she knew exactly what Rosse was referring to, she knew where Khan Rosse had come from and what he had fostered within the Nova Cat Clan. “The Watch have eyes and ears everywhere as always Khan Rosse?”
“Not spies, they are capable people and they mean no ill to those that they observe.” He said both Khan McKenna and ovKhan Hammond looked equally annoyed and concerned about the revelation by the Nova Cat Khan, just how far this “network” extended. “Some of our observers in the Rasalhague Dominion space have confirmed with the Dominion’s own Watch that the nuclear bomb originated within the Draconis Combine.”
“If they have concluded their investigations and found this, why are they continuing to hammer Dieron?” McKenna asked confused
“Many reasons namely they are able to test their new weapons, blood their newest warriors and close on Terra.” Canin said pointing out the three obvious reasons to pursue an assault on Dieron.
“But the Dominion do not want to conquer Terra” Katrine Devalis stated Canin Rosse smiled
“Publicly” Canin answered “the Bears have a similar view on the ilClan as the Nova Cats, the Sea Foxes, the Horses and…” he said looking at the new Raven Khan not knowing his beliefs “at least until recently the Ravens. The ilClan is a title and it takes Terra off the table as a target but otherwise life goes on and the Clans continue to do what we do.” He said seeing Katrine Devalis disgust at the attitude towards the highest honour that could be achieved by a Clan. “The Founder was very clever when he formed our Clans.” He said each of them nodded their agreements “while we have a lot of joint heritage and shared history, he made sure that each of us was able to grow independently of the shared cause.”
“Except the Not-named” Hammond noted there was silence between the gathered four for several moments before they spoke together “Seyla” before several more moments of silence.
“So, the Succession States are a problem, Quiaff?” Devalis said bringing them out of their silence and back to Canin Rosse’s original point.
“Aff, the Bears are dealing with Dieron and then they will more than likely turn their attention onto the Combine and ensure they cannot prosecute a war of aggression for some time.”
“Aff, you would not want to be their long-term neighbour and enemy” Canin Rosse said remembering when the Clan Invasion corridors were originally being drawn up. Clan Nova Cat was due to join the Smoke Jaguars in fighting the Draconis Combine before a vision had led them to their new home in what was then the Tortuga Dominions on the periphery region of the Federated Suns where they had prospered. “The Combine will be very busy in the coming months allowing us an opportunity to strike.”
“Us? You do not share a border with the Combine Khan Rosse, my Lynx do.” Devalis said almost as if she needed to remind him, she took part of his Clan and their territory away from him. “What is the Nova Cat’s part in this assault?”
“Technical expertise and supply, as well as keeping the Federated Suns busy on the Raven’s back.” Rosse said “I am willing to release enough forces for you to create four combined arms Clusters Khan Devalis in exchange for materials.” He said looking at Katrine he was offering her a chance to build an entire Galaxy worth of troops. “I know the Lynx plan to abandon several of your deeper periphery holdings.” He said seeing the surprise on her face “with these additional forces you can greatly expand you, Clan.” He suggested
“And how do we benefit?” The Sea Fox ovKhan asked
“I am willing to release a Nova Cat holding to Clan Sea Fox. Specifically, to the Snapping Jaws Khanate.” He said seeing the man’s face light up, the Nova Cats had jealously held their territory only allowing a small trading enclave on Tortuga Prime until now, having an entire system would greatly benefit the Sea Foxes. “And we will assault Federated Suns targets between the Nova Cat’s Den and Snow Raven space keeping their attention on us instead of on your forces.”
“Where would you have us strike?” Khan McKenna asked deferring to Khan Rosse’s judgement “you are both already doing it. Katrine your Lynx are placed to attack Herndon?” he asked looking at her, she nodded again annoyed the Nova Cats had picked up a couple of details about her Clan. “And from there you threaten Pesht with direct attack.” He said glancing over at McKenna “your forces recently won two battles near New Samarkand which is already drawing additional forces to the region.”
“And we support” Hammond said he didn’t look happy with the arrangement.
“You are welcome to join the attacks if you wish ovKhan” McKenna suggested “your Sea Foxes would be welcome to join us.”
“A trade world close to New Samarkand would benefit Clan Sea Fox greatly.” He noted, we could coordinate with your forces on a target, quiaff?”
“Affirmative, ovKhan, what do the Nova Cats get out of this Khan Rosse? Your Clan will likely make negligible moves against the Federated Suns, even with them being distracted currently with Dieron.” Katrine Devalis said wondering what Rosse’ endgame was.
“Affirmative, we will make slower and steadier progress than your Clans should but with the new WarShip we’re building with the Ravens perhaps our time will also come.” Rosse suggested “until then we’ll continue to make slow but steady pace. In your attacks the Nova Cats will assist with intelligence and supplies for the most part.” He saw their faces realizing that he knew that they didn’t like that the Nova Cats would be sitting on the sidelines “none of you need to make these assaults, the Rasalhague Dominion will likely assault the Draconis Combine in the few months.” He suggested “given what we know of the attack against them the Bear retribution will come swiftly and be dramatic. Having this information gives you an advantage when the attack comes.” He stated simply “I am placing this information in your hands it is up to you if you wish to use it.” Canin Rosse had the experience to know when he had someone’s attention.
“When did the Nova Cat’s become the spy, Clan?” Hammond wondered out loud, he saw that Canin Rosse did not take offence to the statement. “You appear to have access to quite a bit of information.”
“That is all he has but none of the guts to act on the information on his own.” Devalis stated “that was always your problem, it is why you lost us.”
“I lost you because you are a manipulative bitch.” Canin snapped breaking his cool “Katrine, I knew about your moves within our Clan. I sent what became the Lynx Clan away because of your plans and the plans of others within the Clan. A direct confrontation with the Federated Suns on the scale you wanted would have destroyed out Clan.”
“And now you are pushing us to act against the Combine in the same way? Quiaff” She asked angrily thinking she had exposed an opening.
“Neg” he responded looking at the others “to attack the Federated Suns en masse brought a reaction our Clan could not handle, we all witnessed that when we took Crofton.” He stated the counter attacks by the Federated Suns caused heavy damage to the Nova Cats. “The intelligence I am providing you with will allow your Clans to strike when the Rasalhague Dominion does. Our Clans are powerful, but we cannot take out an entire succession state alone.” He pointed out what should be obvious to the others. “We saw that when the Clan Invasion initially occurred the Clans that invaded invaded together and they won more than a fifth of the territory in the Inner Sphere. However now that there is no combined invasion our progress has stalled. If you want to cause irreversible damage to the Draconis Combine you will strike together when the Dominion does.”
“There is too much territory” Hammond agreed “the Sea Foxes have found the same since we took control over portions of the Jade Falcon OZ.”
“Exactly, our Clans can win the territory but we also need to learn how to garrison huge areas of territory. We need to build Auxiliary forces willing to defend their homes while we take our wars to the enemy. The Rasalhague Dominion has done that faster than our other Clans, the Fire Mandrills on the other side of the Inner Sphere appear to be well on their way to that as well. The Wolves and Falcons sacrifice their territory to move forwards, none of you want to follow that model.” He suggested recent intelligence suggesting that the Lynx Clan planned on abandoning several of their systems to move forwards as they did not have the manpower to garrison all their worlds.
“And where are your Nova Cats?” Katrine Devalis asked
“We follow our visions, and our intelligence, you are correct ovKhan Hammond my Clan has begun to rely on the intelligence, it is the best way for success until there are others in the position to crush the Federated Suns.” He said glancing around the room seeing their surprise his old face cracked into a smile “we are Kerensky’s Clans, while some of us believe that there are better options rather than full invasions, we all hold the same dream an Inner Sphere enlightened by the guidance of the Clans.” He said all of them nodded at that agreeing with the statement “we just need to fight smart.”
While on Falakuma Khan Canin Rosse confirmed a trade agreement with the Lynx Clan where the Nova Cats would trade four clusters worth of equipment in exchange for additional natural resources. They also signed a deal for access to the newest Snow Raven aerospace fighter the Navajo, a ninety-ton aerospace fighter designed to engage the heaviest enemy fighter, DropShips and WarShips, and the rights to build it.
Rosse also negotiates the trade of Memphis from Clan Nova Cat to Clan Sea Fox ownership in exchange for the Sea Fox Clan supporting any offensive actions taken by the three other Clans and supplying them with munitions where required.
Note: the Navajo is from marauder648's Project Nelson
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Very nice DC!
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I become single and suddenly I have lots of time to write... you'd think they were connected ;D honestly I've got the flow to a tee right now I know exactly where this is going
Negotiation
District of Dieron, Federated Suns
9th March 3117
While Duke Akira Kurita and Warlord Akira Warlord attempted to repel the Rasalhague Dominion in the Algedi system already reports suggest that three WarShips from each of the Rasalhague Dominion and the District of Dieron had been destroyed and Rasalhague Dominion troops had landed on the planet. Even with eight regiments on the planet victory was not assured as the Ghost Bears had dedicated two full Galaxies to the planet’s conquest.
Empress Emiko Kurita stood alone on Dieron looking at the holo-tank ahead of her waiting for the connection. She hated what she had to do but it was the only way especially with the Draconis Combine already exerting their authority on three more systems of the District Tannil, Lapida II and Kurhah. The District’s agreement with the Rasalhague Dominion stated that should the Clan force be victorious then all of the District’s systems and worlds would be turned over to their control in the meantime she was duty bound to defend their territory. Either Combine rule or Dominion rule the results would be similar the local government would likely be imprisoned or worse, she had taken them out of the Draconis Combine with a promise of more freedoms but she had led them to ruin.
The holo-tank finally activated and the face of Duke Jerome Sandoval the duke of the Federated Suns’ Draconis March. “Duke Sandoval, thank you for speaking to me on such short notice.”
“My pleasure Empress” he sounded pleased to speak to her Empress Kurita had dark hair the sides of his head were completely shaved while the top was grown longer and tied at the back in a topknot. He wore the uniform of a Field Marshal of the Federated Suns. “How can we be of assistance?”
“I want you to engage the Draconis Combine units on Tannil, Lapida and Kurhah” she said she felt like she was making a deal with the devil and it was a devil that laughed at her for several seconds before calming down. “You don’t need to take the systems
“And why “Empress” woud we help you?” he emphasis her position almost to the point of making it a joke, she was begging another state for help, and she knew it.
“Because I will legally cede those systems to you if you are victorious.” She said willing to give up control over the three systems.
“Not enough” Jerome Sandoval said “you want me to risk my people’s lives for three worlds we could win ourselves there has to be an intensive.”
“What do you want?”
“Galatia to Sadalbari.”
“That is seven worlds!” She said angrily “none of them have been threatened by the Draconis Combine.”
“Yet” Sandoval said “Empress, admit it your nation is in the twilight of its existence. You can accept our assistance, buy your people time, and I will deploy house and mercenary units along with WarShips to Tannil, Kurhah and Lapida within an hour of this transmission ending. But I could lose those house, mercenary and navy units, I need to give First Prince Davion something in return. Your worlds are all threatened.”
“That is a third of our remaining systems.”
“Save your nation or surrender to the Bear or Dragon, your choice.”
“A list of bad options Duke Sandoval.” Emiko said angrily, this felt like her conversation with the Duchess of Skye the other side held all the cards. If her people could defeat the Bears on Algedi they might be able to salvage some of their nation but right now things looked bad.
“Our conversation is wasting time; do you want my troops or not?” He asked leaning back away from the camera as if what he wanted was not all that important when in fact it would be a great win for the Federated Suns.
“I agree” she said through gritted teeth
“Very good, our units will be deployed by the end of the day.” He said within hours of House and Mercenary units each supported by at least one WarShip were deployed from the Draconis March into the three contested systems. Landing quickly on the worlds the Davion and Mercenary forces engage both the House Kurita forces and the militia forces of the Distict of Dieron turning the fighting into a three-way battle for dominance.
Landing Operation
Talltsa, Deep Periphery
23rd March 3117
With the Fronc Reaches falling deeper into a state of civil unrest the Taurian Concordat had decided to expand back into systems that they had abandoned previously starting with those closest to the Concordat and then spreading further out. On the world of Talltsa Subaltern Dwain Murphy strode his sixty-ton Oryx BattleMech through the undergrowth towards to small town ahead of him. He saw a pirate Wasp charging towards him and fired both of the LB-X class autocannons mounted on the rifle arms of the BattleMech. The Wasp was pelted by armour piercing pellets which caused damage across the BattleMech while the light Mech accelerated towards his position, he sighted the Mech again with the autocannons targeting the camouflage Mech. Only one of the autocannons splashed over the Wasp while the other tore across the ground beside it tearing up the dirt.
The Wasp retaliated by firing off a medium laser which burned across the Oryx’s chest burning away some of the BattleMech’s standard armour. As the Wasp closed on the Oryx’s position Dwain fired again but missed the fast moving twenty-ton BattleMech which cut to his right. As it closed Dwain added in his two medium lasers and two short range missile racks from the Oryx one laser burned down the Wasp’s left leg while half of the twelve short ranged missiles slammed into the small Mech while the rest exploded harmlessly on the ground around the BattleMech tearing up the landscape. So much damage was too much for light BattleMech which staggered forwards for a few more steps then it collapsed and staggered into a fall.
As the Wasp was taken out of the fight, he saw another Mech moving from the city his Oryx’s battle computer quickly identified it as an Argus BattleMech. From Dwain’s right flank a brown Shadow Hawk raised and fired its autocannon and missiles into the target, moments later on his left an Enforcer engaged the Argus with a laser while the lances fourth BattleMech a Watchman also stepped forwards and added another large laser to the mix. The Argus was heavier than all three of the Oryx’s lance mates but combined it struggled under the combined hits. Dwain added in both of his light autocannons causing further misery to the BattleMech’s plight.
Despite the damage wrought on the Argus the heavy BattleMech was still able to open fire firing its long-range missiles and its rotary autocannon tearing into the Enforcer on Dwain’s left. The medium Mech staggered under the fire but remained standing.
“This is Subaltern Murphy of the Taurian Guards we are here to bring order to Talltsa and bring it back into the Taurian Concordat. Stand down.” He ordered on an open channel in all Dwain’s dozen years in the military the Taurians had taken hits and retreated from enemies attacking, it felt good to be on the attack. There was silence to his call “Battle engage and bring down that BattleMech, fire at will.”
The three BattleMechs on Dwain’s flanks charged forwards engaging the Argus from all angle’s lasers, missiles and autocannons bore down on the BattleMech causing heavy damage. To the pilot’s credit he tried to fight back but he was one BattleMech against three. From behind Dwain Murphy watched their backs and saw the incoming threat a lance of wheeled short range missile carriers. “Watch your six! They’ve set a trap.” He called out opening fire on one of the short-range missile carriers hitting it with autocannon fire causing heavy damage to the side of the small vehicle. As he did the Enforcer turned and launched itself into the sky on jump jets and engaged a second SRM carrier with its autocannon and laser. The laser burned away armour while the autocannon blew open the front of the small vehicle causing huge internal damage and blowing the vehicle up from the inside out. The third missile carrier peppered the Watchman with missiles blowing away pieces of armour and causing internal damage blowing away the BattleMech’s left arm. The Watchman staggered under the blows but remained standing long enough for the rest of the lance to destroy the remaining SRM carrier.
The resistance here on Talltsa was over but the Taurian Concordat forces extended their reach to Davetall II and III, Acidalla and Charion VI bringing them all back into the periphery nation, all of the systems had once been part of the Concordat and would be again as Protector Sonja Calderon flexed her nation’s muscles once more.
Landing Zone
McCoy’s Malcontents Homebase
Whittington, Periphery
29th March 3117
They had seen the destruction from above, and seen the condition of the remains of the planet’s defenders as they approached the base from orbit. Schuyler McCoy exited the unit’s DropShip Conte Rosso and walked down onto the torn-up ground of Whittington. Less than one hundred metres from the DropShip’s LZ he could see a destroyed Emperor BattleMech, one of the Mechs he’d left here when the unit was deployed, beyond the Emperor laid a Mackie while closer to the base stood the remains of a Banshee BattleMech. On the courtyard three more BattleMechs that he had left behind stood in various states missing limbs and suffering armour breaches. Also littered around the battlefield that had been their home was a destroyed Centurion BattleMech, two destroyed Fulcrum hovercraft and several smashed-up weapon carrier vehicles.
As Schuyler McCoy moved through the base seeing the Marian Hegemony insignia on several pieces of destroyed armour. Moving over to one of the bodies he bent over and flipped the man over revealing the Marian Hegemony’s insignia engraved on the man’s head. “Cohors Morituri” McCoy grumbled angrily, the Marian Hegemony was gone but their remnants still survived. He looked up and saw the survivors of his base coming out, many of them were wounded.
“Schuyer are you alright?” Amanda Cavalcanti asked walking up behind her during their trip away from Whittington she’d taken a pair of hair clippers due to an out-of-control hair day, he wasn’t a huge fan of her close-cropped hair but it did the job.
“Do I look alright?” He snapped back towards her “they came here when they knew we weren’t!” He said angrily “these people are my people Amanda, I brought most of them here and I left… I left them with the scraps of our equipment while we were out adventuring.” He stated the best practice was to take the best equipment you had but it had left Whittington with barely enough for a solid defence.
“We were doing what we needed to. You keep saying if we sit on our asses here then one day someone will come and we’ll lose it all!” She responded
“We need to defend this world better” he said turning to the others “we’re the ones they rely on.” He said turning back to her “tell the Front Two to stay buttoned up in the DropShips, we need food and spare parts, Backdoor Squad are staying behind to reinforce things here. We’re leaving half the unit behind to reinforce things here. Tell Sabrina and Stephanie to acquire themselves something that’s functional they can help with the defence” he said naming the newest two members of the unit.
“Shouldn’t we help them?”
“We’re going after those who did this. We’re going to Marius’ Tears.”
“That hellhole” he said Amanda commented Marius’ Tears was a barren volcanically active world, no-one went there intentionally.
“We’re going in, and we’re going to clean it up. And either they come out or we do.” He said angry at what had happened to his home, he didn’t even want to see the mess the ex-Marian warriors had made of the collection of Mechs his father had left them, that would be a discovery for another day for now he planned on taking two lances off the planet after almost a battalion of enemy troops, they had to do it right.
The Oryx is borrowed from the rather good fan-TRO Operation Lancaster
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Awesome for us!
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Back to work in two days I wonder how much more I can write... honestly this week its been fun, time for April 3117 - the first part is not at all inspired by an old TV show I've been watching honest (I say old it's like a few years old)
Hostage Situation, Detroit Consolidated Mechworks
Deerborn, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
1st April 3117
The Fronc Reaches was spiralling out of control fast with the lack of leadership following the attack on the Tower of Fronc. The bombing had happened at just the right moment taking out the majority of the government, the knock-on effect had been to destabilize the entire nation with people not knowing where their nation was going.
The Colonial Marshals, which were the glue that held their people together, were fighting fires and dealing with issues throughout the Fronc Reaches. On the industrial world of Detroit, a team Marshals known as Team Flashpoint had been sent to Detroit Consolidated Mechworks, one of the most important places in the entire realm, due to an armed incident inside the works.
The Flashpoint Team were known as the Special Reaction Unit and the Marshals job was to defuse the situation, and if they needed to eliminate the threats. The situation on Detroit was a fluid one with angry workers holding several of the plant managers hostage until they got answers.
“Listen my names Sergeant Grieg Parker of the Detroit Marshals Special Reaction Unit, we want to resolve this situation peacefully” from within the Quaestor Mobile Tactical Command HQ which was parked behind the line of Cellco Ranger Law Enforcement Vehicles and the Zhan Heavy Transports which ringed the entrance of the plant. Between him stood eight Amazon Battle Armoured troopers ready to infiltrate the facility while behind the Quaestor, the Cellco’s and Zhans stood the unit’s six BattleMechs. Above the facility several helicopters monitored the site watching for anyone trying to sneak through the
“You cannot help us, we’re all doomed, soon the signal will come and we will all be bathed in the inferno of death.” Came a response over the radio “Fronc was the first sign”
“What do you mean you’ll be bathed in an inferno, we’re all going to be alright” he responded swapping communication channels “Raymond, anything out there?”
“Negative, no sign of contacts” his twin brother Raymond Parker responded from his Wyvern City BattleMech which stood on the outskirts.
“Boss! We might have a problem”
“Go ahead Spike” Grieg called the younger man who was in his Raven II BattleMech he was the units electronic warfare specialist.
“My Mech just picked up an attempted transmission sent to the facility. My Raven’s ECM is set up for a broad-spectrum block, it didn’t get through but someone tried to blow this place to pieces.”
“Any idea where it came from Spike?”
“Planet side, probably within a few kilometres given the strength of the signal.” Spike said his forty-ton Mech carried a lot more than the standard electronics suite “Boss, I don’t know if I’m going to be able to keep it covered if things move.”
“What’s your plan?” Raymond Parker asked from his Mech
“We use the choppers ECM, blanket the area, link them to me and I’ll coordinate positions, it’ll be like a poor man’s C3.” He suggested
“You’re not a poor man, Spike, brains are worth more than money.”
“Tell my banker that” Spike commented
“Do it Spike, take the units” Grieg Parker said from the command vehicle “Eddie, if this goes sideways leave Spike and the helos.”
“Understood” Edward Laing said from his Quickdraw BattleMech on the field he was in charge of running any battle that occurred.
“Boss! We have another problem” Bradick called from his Gravedigger BattleMech, Bradick was an ex-member of the Rasalhague Dominion military and his mixed tech BattleMech was probably the most advanced one in the entire periphery.
“Go ahead”
“I have movement near the Mech entrance.” He said Bradick and the unit’s Anubis BattleMech piloted by MechWarrior JC were checking the perimeter of the building.
“Maybe some employees trying to break out?”
“Only if that break out includes weapons fire!” Bradick called back ducking his Gravedigger away from a salvo of weapons fire. “We’ve got enemies on the move, weapons fire incoming two Ostroc!” He said both were bigger than the two Mechs around the back.
“Wordie, Ed, Raymond go!” Greig Parker ordered the three Mechs began running around the facility leaving the vehicles and battle armour to hold the front door.
“We’re fully defensive!” JC called out her light Anubis was running at full speed putting out long range missiles and laser fire while Bradick’s heavier Gravedigger was firing a combination of its particle cannon, missiles and autocannon into one of the Ostrocs. From the facility two Anubis BattleMechs were joining the breakout. “We need help here”
“You called!” Wordie called out his Marshal landing behind the Ostrocs and in front of the two Anubis which he engaged with his particle cannon and three pulse lasers. Moments later Laing arrived as well his 8X variant Quickdraw raising the hand-held autocannon which burst out hitting one of the advancing Ostrocs. At the same time Raymond Parker added in his laser to the attack engaging the same Mech.
“Boss, we’ve got these guys pinned, there was a report of four attackers we should have them all here now.” Laing communicated seeing one of the Ostroc
“Understood, I’m sending in the Amazons” Grieg responded BattleMechs fall under a hail of fire. The Special Response Unit quickly moved onto the next target combining their fire to bring down the target while the Marshal contained the two Anubis BattleMechs. At the front of the facility the eight Amazon Battle Armour suits launched into the air jumping straight into the building smashing their way through facilities metal frontage shattering the glass. Shards of glass showered the ground in front of the building.
“Four Mechs down!” Bradick called out as the fourth Anubis fell under the heavy weapons fire weapons fire.
“Facility clear, no more subjects inside.” Greig reported after hearing from the Amazons. “Spike anymore signals?”
“Negative, but I wouldn’t drop the ECM net until we search the facility completely. These guys were willing to die when the first signal was sent.”
“Understood, good job team” Parker said from his command vehicle they would check the facility and find the explosives that had been left they also continued to protect the facility while intelligence teams searched for the culprits who attempted to blow up the facility. The intelligence teams eventually found a repeater in the facility which had been set to auto repeat, the owners of the equipment were gone. From the four BattleMechs they found that the four pilots had committed suicide in their cockpits, none of them carried identification of any type the mystery of who had attacked the BattleMech plant remained a mystery while the Fronc Reaches continued to spiral towards chaos. The only defenders of the Reaches, the Colonial Marshals, were fighting the issues but they couldn’t stop everything without politicians to help them the nation couldn’t recover. On multiple worlds individual planetary leaders were trying to gain enough favour to establish some control.
Parliament Meeting
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
5th April 3117
The united Free Worlds League was still fractured in a dozen different ways and every time the Parliament met the fractures came to the surface. One of the main divergence points for the FWL was military strength and deployments of the units in its defence of all their differences one of the few things all of the Districts of the nation agreed on was that military forces should remain in their hands not parliaments.
While the Free Worlds League was different now than it was during the times that the Captain-General held all the power there was a still a fear of a collected military. The Free Worlds Protectors regiments had been seen as a compromise by all of the districts each unit had a combined-arms regiment which had a BattleMech Battalion, a battalion of vehicles, a battalion of battle armour and a regiment of infantry troops. Over time the brigade had grown to ten regiments in strength and they were under the direct command of Marshal Monica Meio and of the Free Worlds League parliament their job was to defend all of the FWL and support the combined defence of the nation.
Monica Meio had been born in the District in the Ionus system on one of the orbital habitats there but she had become a MechWarrior in the service of the District being drawn away from space. After years of service to the District of Marik she’d transferred from the District military into the Marik Protectors intending on creating a true Free Worlds League Armed Forces once more. The problem she found was that not everyone in the reborn FWL believed in a combined military force for the entire nation.
Now it was time for her to convince them in front of the gathered parliament she was dressed in her purple dress uniform waiting to be called. “Marshal Monica Meio” she heard her name called; she gave them several moments then stepped up onto the podium.
The Free Worlds League Parliament building was a large bowl-shaped arena with multiple levels of chairs overlooking a pit like area on the “floor” of the room. In all more than two hundred people could be arranged around the facility. In front of her speaker’s podium were tables and chairs for several of the staff members who kept the facility and the briefings going and at the far end Captain-General Joseph Marik sat listening.
“Elected members of parliament thank you for granting my audience today.” She said glancing around the room but attempting to maintain contact with the Captain-General she continued “it has been my honour to see the Free Worlds Protectors Brigade grow to ten regiments in strength, and we have now begun to roll out aerospace fighter wing and Pocket WarShip support to all regiments.” She explained “but we are asking for more.” She said “if we encounter an enemy WarShip my commands do not have the firepower to counter those forces. Each of your districts has WarShips but they have orders to protect your areas of interest, we are asking for integral WarShip support to be added to each Free Worlds Protector Regiment. We want the power to truly defend the nation and provide the defence that this realm and this parliament deserve.” She said before stepping down even as Monica marched from the Parliamentary Room, she could hear shouts of support and shouts against the plan, she had done her bit, she would spend the rest of 3117 ensuring that each of her regiments had at the very least an aerospace wing attached to them and preferably a squadron of Pocket WarShips as well.
The Parliament would discuss the proposal made by Marshal Monica Meio for the next week before an agreement would be reached. Instead of agreeing for each of the nations to donate a WarShip to the regiments a new design based on the ancient League-class Destroyer would be designed and built at each of the shipyards around the Free Worlds League. While this was considered to be a win for the Free Worlds Protectors the first of these new WarShips would not be available until at least 3122 leaving the protectors to continue to rely on District WarShips and Pocket WarShips for support.
Brunswick Flight Range
Camblam River, Brunswick
New Avalon, Crucis March
19th April 3117
High above the continent of Brunswick on New Avalon two Cutlass OmniFighters flew in tight circles after taking off from an airfield near Winchester now they were above the river of Camblam. “Time to show what you are capable of cadet the hard deck is one hundred metres.” The lead pilot Captain Sabrina Rodzik said glancing over at the other seventy-ton OmniFighter off her wing the pilot didn’t respond instead she saluted and then the other Cutlass began to pull up and to the right Rodzik pulled her own fighter up mirroring the other fighter’s movement. The lead fighter then began a steep dive towards the raging river. “Remember the hard deck is one hundred metres” she said diving her aircraft after the lead aircraft.
“Keep up, Captain” the lead pilot said following the raging river the two fighters banked heavily to the left side and then sharply to the right passing over pleasure boats and swimmers. They then banked sharply left again angling towards a river tunnel which would take it through the Omni Fighter side of a mountain.
“If you fly through that tunnel, you will fail your training, I don’t care who your father is.” Rodzik warned the lead aircraft. The aircraft continued to dive towards the tunnel but veered off to the right before it got within one hundred metres instead of following the river tunnel, they followed the open river rapidly banking to the left and right moving at pace towards their goal Brunswick City.
The two aircraft traveled quickly down river heading towards a series of bridges “this is not a good idea cadet. We’re well below the hard-deck!” Rodzik warned as the lead fighter continued to accelerate pulling out a lead from her fighter the lead Cutlass swing to the left as the river opened wider to show a group of bridges and merchant boats. Rodzik was unwilling to chance colliding with any of them but the lead pilot full of confidence and sure of her capabilities continued accelerate the Cutlass dived under the first bridge before swinging to the left turning the aircraft up on the edge of its wing as it traveled between two transport boats. The aircraft spun one hundred and eighty degrees placing the aircraft in a vertical position on its right wing as it passed under the second bridge. Finally, the aircraft accelerated quickly diving under the third and final bridge before pulling back upwards joining Rodzik in perfect formation.
“Was that entirely necessary Cadet?”
“Not entirely” she admitted “but it was a lot of fun.”
“Know this Cadet Davion your father may be the First Prince but those antics will not be accepted when you are serving this great nation.” Rodzik said she knew she was speaking Princess Leah Davion, the second in line to the Throne of the Federated Suns, but she needed to understand as she grew up there were rules that would need to be followed.
“I know, Captain, this was the last time I would have this chance to have a bit of fun with the job.” Leah Davion replied as the two aircraft banked over Brunswick City “I chose this life, Captain, I want to serve our nation and support my father’s rule. I know what comes with this job.” She said she’d heard stories all of her life from her parents and grand-parents about the life of service that she was joining she had life easy until now and now she’d serve the nation.
As Leah Davion joined the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns the military of their nation secured control over Tannil on the Draconis Combine border. The defenders also faced Combine troops on their own soil Reisling’s Planet, Barlow’s Folly, Matar and Homam as the Draconis Combine began a counter attack. On the other side of the realm the Fifth Tikonov Cossacks Regimental Combat Team win a Trial of Possession against Clan Nova Cat for control over the Steinhatchee system.
Reinforcements, SLDF Forward Operating Base
Horseshoe Valley, Freedom
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
29th April 3117
The Collosus-class DropShip landed along with several others bringing reinforcements to the 208th Hussar Regimental Brigade which was based on Freedom supporting the planet’s resistance to Clan occupation. The BattleMechs and vehicles began to file out of the DropShip and were directed to their spots on the massive Forward Operating Base a thirty-five-ton BLD-XR Blade BattleMech filed out of the DropShip along with the others. Inside the cockpit recently graduated Lieutenant Ezekiel Crow guided his BattleMech towards its berthing with its new unit. Lieutenant Crow was older than most new pilots at twenty-eight years old but as an immigrant from Liao he had several loops to jump through before joining the Star League Defence Force and now he had graduated he was ready to serve in the defence of the Inner Sphere.
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Time for some pay off on what has been set up to date.
Counter-attack
Marius’ Tears
Periphery
2nd May 3117
In the battered volcanic landscape of Marius’ Tears Captain Schuyler McCoy brought his modified Archer BattleMech down on top of the Fennec BattleMech cutting down through the air with the Mech’s hatchet decapitating the arm less BattleMech, it was his fifth Mech kill as his unit’s McCoy’s Malcontents counter-attacked throughout the canyons that the Cohors Morituri made their home. Already his unit had destroyed more than a company of enemy BattleMechs and more than a company of vehicles during the fighting he had lost three of his own ten MechWarriors, and he knew he would lose more in the course of the day.
He pulled his hatchet from the downed BattleMech and he turned towards their goal, the enemy encampment, he raised his particle cannon which was mounted on the underside of the opposite arm firing a bolt of lightning into the enemy base blowing apart one of the rooms. “Continue to pour it on!” McCoy shouted moving his Mech forwards a Javelin BattleMech ran past him peppering his Mech with short range missiles blowing open the armour on the Archer’s right side but not causing an armour penetration, McCoy returned fire with his own short range missile launchers and added in all four medium lasers as well. The return fire tore open the lighter Mech and the Javelin fell to the ground. The heat produced by the lasers and missile fire roared into the cockpit of the Archer as he continued forwards.
“Two, we need cover!” He shouted angrily at the second lance which were about two hundred metres behind his lance, both units were short on Mechs due to combat losses but they had all of the unit’s Ravager Battle Armour and their six vehicles.
“Affirmative Captain, there are a dozen alleys that they can come out of, the faster more mobile units are causing trouble for us.” Leading Gunner Faris Scherwiz replied, “I’ve staggered the unit to cover more ground but the faster units are passing quicker than we can react.”
“Do what you can, One move forward obliterate the base and barracks.” He ordered there were three BattleMechs left in his leading lance and all three moved forwards he saw Amanda Cavalcanti bring down a pair of Flea BattleMechs with heavy blows from her Cataphracts autocannon and then particle cannon.
From behind the base a Firestarter BattleMech ran out and began spraying the command lances Highlander with several flamethrowers. The Highlander’s pilot Tom Ayrton returned fire with a devastating volley of eighteen short range missiles which blew the Firestarter’s leg completely off the BattleMech. Two laser blasts cored the Firestarter’s cockpit killing the downed pilot.
“THIS IS WHAT YOU WANTED!” McCoy said angrily walking up the building firing a volley of short-range missiles into it. He raised the Mech’s hatchet and brought it down on the side of the building caving in the side of the building. “You came to my home; you killed my people. Today you pay the price.” He said slamming the BattleMech through a wall moments later the Cataphract fired its autocannon into another part of the building dozens of people were running from the far side of the building.
“They are evacuating” Amanda Cavalcanti said seeing people escaping from the building Tom Ayrton’s Highlander stepped up and suddenly spat eighteen more short range missiles targeting the running people the ground exploded all around them and the civilians stopped moving.
“Mercenary HOLD FIRE! Those people are helpless.” Another male voice came on McCoy’s Archer’s sensors it registered behind his position turning he saw a lance of BattleMechs remained all of them ancient designs a Galahad, a Talos, a Pheonix and a Hammerhand all Mechs that used to be housed in his father’s hanger.
“Thieves, rapists and murderers all of you” Schuyler McCoy seethed over the radio angry at the sight of the Mechs in enemy hands and the memories of all the losses they had taken. “Stand down immediately and I’ll grant you a quick death.” He cursed
“We are… we are willing to surrender in exchange for safe passage to a neutral system…” McCoy didn’t know who fired first only that it was not him. The Hammerhand went down first in a hail of fire, the Galahad followed quickly after it as gauss rifles, missiles, autocannons and particle cannons tore through the fifty-ton Mech. The Talos turned and tried to run only for a gauss rifle slug from Ayrton’s Highlander to tear through the back of the Mech and tear out the gyroscope. The Pheonix was last another fifty-ton Mech like the Talos and Galahad had no chance against five enemy Mechs, the pilot at least tried to fight back but he had no choice.
None of the remaining Malcontents stopped firing until the entire base was torn down to rubble and not a single survivor remained alive. In all the Malcontents had lost half the personnel they had brought to Marius Tears but they had destroyed more than three times their number, with much of it salvageable, cutting down their enemies in a hail of vengeful fire and hopefully safeguarding their home for the immediate future at least.
Later that night the DropShip laden with salvage lifted off from Marius Tears and began heading back towards their JumpShip. In total the Malcontents had lost more than twenty members of their unit and support staff, Schuyler McCoy had no idea how many of the civilians on Whittington had been lost sitting in his quarters onboard the ship he began to try and figure out what he could have done differently, it was the largest loss he’d ever had and far larger than anything his father had lost.
The alarm bell rang he got up and crossed the small quarters, the door slid open. “Amanda” he said seeing Amanda Cavalcanti standing there in a navy set of work coveralls, she’d been helping the techs repair their remaining equipment and she was covered in grease. Her hair was beginning to grow back and tied at the back of her head. “Come in please” he said crossing the small quarters he sat at the corner table while Amanda crossed the quarters and sat on his bed
“how go the repairs?”
“Messy” she said raising her dirt covered hands “how are you?”
“Trying to make sense of all of this, we haven’t even crossed paths with them before and they come to our home and they kill our people.” He said angrily
“We have done the same Boss” she said looking at him with hard eyes “it’s how I joined this unit.” She said harshly she saw him looking at her angrily “I know, you didn’t target civilian settlements and I know you wouldn’t but we do attack others and take what we need. Perhaps they needed our Mechs, the ones we encountered in the final battle, Whittington is a valuable target.”
“But to target the civilians…”
“Some people don’t care who they hit.” Cavalcanti said “listen Shu if I found out that you were that kind of man after you’d captured me, I wouldn’t be sitting here today.”
“So why are you here?”
“You got me a better Mech” she said smirking looking at him “I wanted to serve in a unit, this unit has slowly become home. I’ve found a reason to stay.”
“So why are you ‘here’” he asked meaning his quarters this time.
“Well, you have a working shower” she said smirking opening her coveralls raising to her feet Schuyler also rose to his feet he couldn’t help himself, he moved over to her. “I’m covered in dirt”
“I have a shower” he said reaching out to her.
“Yes, you do and we’ll definitely need it” she said joining him in an embrace. They had all lost friends and family when Whitting had been attacked and in their revenge mission on Marius Tears but perhaps these two also gained something.
Planetary Assaults
Fronc Reaches
Periphery
10th May 3117
As the Fronc Reaches continues to fall further into a confused state its neighbours, the two nations that supported its founding as the “New Colony Region” fall on the state like wolves attacking cornered prey. From both sides of the nation troops land under the guise of peacekeepers with the Magistracy of Canopus deploying its four newest regiments, the Canopian Lancer Brigade. These units have been raised using equipment purchased when the Canopian Magestix has served as the First Lord of the Star League Defence Force with each of the units trained against the best the Magistracy has to offer. The four regiments have also been reinforced by dozens of ex-Clansmen mainly from the Mountain Wolf Clan in the Lyran Commonwealth who have fled prosecution by the Lyrans and are hiding in the Periphery. Most of these warriors simply wish to die an honourable death and happily throw themselves into combat against the Fronc Reaches defenders as the Magistracy annex Joppa, Ur Cruinne, Cygnus and Addisar. During the fighting the Fourth and Eleventh Colonial Marshals are completely destroyed while the Twelfth are forced to retreat.
On the other side of the Fronc Reaches the Taurian Concordat follow a similar strategy to that taken by the Magistracy landing troops on several worlds in rapid succession but unlike the bloodthirsty Canopian units the Taurians allow the defenders to leave challenging them to make the right choice and defend worlds they can hold. In all Carthage, Asphode, Hellespont, Miridem and Argos fall to the Taurian forces with skirmishes only taking place on Carthage and Argos.
Within the Fronc Reaches news of what exactly happened on Fronc begins to cascade through the nation as courier JumpShips and HPGs carry messages between the stars. Follow up news stories of these attack from outwith the small periphery nation further begin to galvanize the population to take up arms and defend their homes from outside aggression in the nation’s time of need.
Clan Invasion
District of Midway, Draconis Combine
21st May 3117
The plan drawn up by the four Clans on Falakuma is brought into reality as Clan Snow Raven, Clan Lynx and Clan Sea Fox all assault the Draconis Combine. With the defenders already heavily engaged with the District of Dieron, Rasalhague Dominion and Federated Suns in various systems the last thing they are prepared for is another three Clans to attack them. The forces that the Draconis Combine did have in the area were concentrated around New Samarkand and Midway giving the Ravens almost unhindered access into the territory capturing the Tiflis, Goubellat, Budingen and Valentina systems.
On the back of the Raven assaults Clan Sea Fox move their trading hub from Falakuma to Sverdlovsk landing two Clusters of troops on the world seizing it for Clan Sea Fox. They offer the one consolation to the Draconis Combine that they will continue to trade with them. As for the people of Falakuma they are completely freed from Clan rule and given their own system back but without any defences, as the Sea Foxes took all of their own manufacturing with them there is little to take from Falakuma except the people.
As the Ravens and Sea Foxes assault the Draconis Combine from one side the Lynx Clan, reinforced by several clusters of equipment that come from Clan Nova Cat’s factories, invades from almost the complete other striking at the Herndon Prefecture driving through the Chupadero, Jeanette, Matamoras, McAlister and Herndon systems in a series of rapid attacks driving towards Pesht. Only in the Herndon system do the Lynx Clan face serious opposition, the Nineteenth Pesht Regulars, a brigade of three combined-arms regiments. While the Lynx lose two Clusters of troops, they are able to overcome the Nineteenth and capture the world.
While the Rasalhague Dominion had not been part of the discussions between the four Clans on Falakuma there were troops within the Rasalhague Dominion itching to get involved in the fighting but had not been called to serve on the District of Dieron front. Now with Watch agents informing them of the Lynx movement on the border the Rasalhague Dominion garrison troops take it upon themselves to move against the Draconis Combine flooding the area between them and the Lynx Clan. In all six systems are attacked by seven Clusters of the Rasalhague Dominion with all six falling to the invading Clan forces. While the Third Kavalleri Infantry Cluster are completely destroyed on Wolcott the Cluster of primarily Infantry and Battle Armour troops is the only total loss for the Rasalhague Dominion as Wolcott, Bangor, Byesville, Jeronimo, Marshdale and Labrea all fall to the Clan forces.
In all by the end of June, when the last assaults on Labrea and Sverdlovsk are completed, the Draconis Combine has lost seventeen systems. True to their word Clan Nova Cat supplies each of the three Clans it met with additional war material to support their assaults on the Draconis Combine. In exchange the Nova Cats are given access to multiple mining sites within Clan Lynx’s territory.
The Nova Cats also keep the Federated Suns eyes focused on the Nova Cats instead of attacks against the Ravens back by declaring Trials of Possession against Azeban, Okenfenokee, Offerman, Shawnee, Anjin Muerto and Tsamma. All of these Trials are at the most a reinforced battalion against a front-line Cluster the Nova Cats are successful in four of the Trials capturing Azeban, Okenfenokee, Offerman and Shawnee but they are forced off Anjin Muerto and Tsamma. Into June and the Federated Suns return the favour against the Nova Cats striking at Des Arc, Metter, Brockton and Crofton. They are beat back off of Crofton, Des Arc and Metter but Brockton falls to the Federated Suns forces, the Nova Cats block every jump point out of Anjin Muerto intent on starving out the defending regiments.
Unknown invader
Kane, Cirincus Federation
Periphery
26th May 3117
On the virtually barren windswept world of Kane at the far edge of the Cirincus Federation Hawke’s Horde were trying to go straight for the first time in their career. They had for a long time been guns for hire on the Free Worlds League periphery border selling their services to the highest bidder and taking advantage of those who couldn’t defend themselves. But now they’d signed on with the Cirincus Federation to try and hold the small battered nation together.
Kane wasn’t a nice place to live but the materials the locals dug from the ground, sometimes using their bare hands, was very valuable and they tried to make the most of their lives. Now the Hawke’s Horde called the planet home as well and so far, the only thing going for it as far as Fellnir Hawke was concerned was the air was breathable. Now it appeared his company of BattleMechs would actually have to fight a battle for the planet as the base’s long-range sensors detected incoming BattleMechs, at least a company of them thundering towards their position.
Sitting in the heaviest Mech his unit had an aging Warhammer Hawke waited for contact the sensors registered the incoming Mechs and he warmed up the two particle cannons ready for combat. Suddenly his visual sensors showed him what his sensors had been seeing twelve identitical BattleMechs each with stylized armour making them look like an ancient warrior from old Terra each of them was identical each carrying a sword and shield and each was eighty tons in weight, each was also charging at more than ninety kilometres per hour.
“Let them have it!” He screamed into his radio firing both particle cannons at one Mech one of the cannons went wide while the other struck the left leg of one of the approaching Mechs. Across his battle line lasers, autocannons and missiles flew towards the incoming Mechs each hit causing minor damage but the enemy Mechs continued to charge.
Almost as one the twelve Mech fired opal coloured pulse laser blasts; every shot hit their target on one of the Firestarter Mechs of Hawke’s company the left arm completely disappeared under the hit then the machine gun ammunition inside the BattleMech exploded causing the entire thirty-five-ton Mech to explode in a ball of flames.
The remains of Hawke’s Horde continued to fire against the incoming Mechs Hawke included causing damage to the enemy Mechs. Several of the enemy Mechs deflected heavy hits intended on causing heavy damage against them by using their huge shields before twisting and firing again. Within moments the enemy Mechs were in among the Horde firing their pulse lasers and torso mounted short range missiles into their targets. Explosions rocked the defending BattleMechs and these were quickly followed by the slice of a Mech sized-sword which cut through BattleMech armour and structure like a knife through butter.
Hawke tried to defend himself from attacks by two enemy Mechs he fired his particle cannons, lasers, missiles and machine guns trying to hold back the targets but everything he did didn’t matter. He was unable to hold them back and the two enemy Mechs swung their swords almost as one the first sword cut through the left arm mounted particle cannon shattering the weapon causing an electrical explosion which rocked Hawke’s Mech on its footing. The second sword swung low slicing though the right knee of the Warhammer taking the limb off at the knee. Hawke fought to control his Mech but it was a fight against gravity and he couldn’t win it both enemy Mechs peppered his with short range missiles as it fell before plunging their swords into the Warhammer again. Hawke had no chance of winning this battle and tried to surrender by shutting down his systems but one of the enemy Mechs stood over the Warhammer’s cockpit and fired its pulse laser into the head of the Mech.
Hawke’s Horde as a unit tried one-by-one to surrender as a form of survival but there was no chance and the company were all killed. Under orders from their new occupiers the population continued to mine minerals from the planet preparing quantities to go back into the Cirincus Federation. However, without Cirincus knowing the new occupiers also brought new mining equipment in making the process easier on the population, they also brought in supplies that made the people’s lives easier essentially buying their silence but allowing the new occupiers to remain in charge. Because life was hard on Kane none of the population were willing to speak out about the change in regime and because materials continued to flow Cirincus did not question what had happened.
-
so what did the Hawke’s Horde run into??
Who knows, going to be interesting to find out though.
They've featured before just not so public. Nor the whole taking territory thing that's new
Bombing Range
Outskirts Montenegro, Solaris VII
Independent Clan Space
8th June 3117
Following two years since the successful introduction of conventional fighter races on Solaris VII the Solaris Racing League Commission introduce a bombing competition as another form of entertainment featuring conventional fighters. In the inageral competition Claudia Dreyfuss from the Lyran Commonwealth piloting a Defender Medium Strike Fighter is victorious winning the competition. In the days following the first bombing competition the first race of the new Solaris Racing League season also takes place long term racer Jonnie Mjalby is victorious once again at the San Bardo Racing Circuit.
Trials of Possession
Rasalhague District, Rasalhague Dominion
Periphery
11th June 3117
With the Rasalhague Dominion continuing to strip its Touman from defensive positions on their inner worlds moving them to forward operating positions against the Draconis Combine and District of Dieron the Clan’s at their back see an opportunity for expansion of their own. Coordinating their attacks so the two Clans do not strike at the same worlds Clan Hell’s Horses take control over the Rasalhague Dominion systems of Kirchbach, The Edge, Rodigo, Alleghe, St John and Liezen only being stopped by a spirited defence on New Bearclaw by the Sixth Claw Cluster. In a similar move the Coyotes take control over the Hohenems, Kufstein and Radstadt systems in Trials of Possession against what little troops have been left to protect they systems. The loss of the Radstadt system is particularly hard for the Rasalhague Dominion as it is a system deep inside the nation, the site of a massive aerospace construction facility and of a large creche training facility for the Tseng Bloodhouse. In the process of the Coyote victory three warriors with Tseng Bloodnames are captured by the Coyotes giving the Clan access to the Bloodhouse into the next generation.
Trial of Possession
Basecamp, Algedi
District of Dieron
22nd June 2117
Warlord Akira Tormark marched into the Headquarters hut of the District of Dieron’s forces on Algedi. For three weeks the District’s forces had fought and died on Algedi trying to hold back the Rasalhague Dominion’s forces. Four regiments of District of Dieron forces had already died while an estimated three Cluster’s of Bears had also been lost. Walking up towards the portable holo-tank Tormark looked at the deployments of his remaining forces almost all of his remaining regiments were at most seventy-five percent in strength and now they’d suffered a morale loss with the death of former Coordinator Akira Kurita. The former Draconis Combine Coordinator had led the defence of Algedi from the front and been killed when his Sunder OmniMech had been ripped apart by a Kodiak II BattleMech, he had fought the Bears to a standstill allowing several others to escape, Tormark hoped that he would find peace now in death after being haunted for so long since his family’s death when he was replaced as Coordinator of the Draconis Combine.
“Activate the HPG link to Dieron” he ordered the staff who were manning stations around the room within moments the image of Empress Emiko Kurita appeared. “My love, it is my duty to inform that Akira Kurita has been slain in battle.” He said she was somehow able to keep her composure “we have lost two thirds of our forces and I would suggest we will face our final battle within the coming weeks. I will fall in the defence of our nation, but remember I love you; it is now up to you to ensure our children grow up in freedom.”
“Fight well and with honour” she said addressing him directly, “serve our nation and understand we are all within you.” She said “I will do what is necessary to protect our people.” She promised him before the link was cut.
“Transmit to all forces, we hold as long as we can. Continue to try and raise the Ghost Bear Khans on the comm. I want to speak to them and discuss our final battle, we will give them time to face us and we will bring them to a final defeat.” He ordered he knew his remaining three regiments couldn’t hold back the Bears but he had decided he would try.
Objective Raid
Manufacturing Plant SSF-SP2
Ideyld, Sea Fox Controlled Space
28th June 3117
The combined-arms mercenary battalion known as Wyld’s Jokers, under the command of Tassa Kay, raids the Sea Fox manufacturing plant on Ideyld challenging the Sea Foxes to a Trial of Possession over what was being manufactured at the plant. The Sea Fox commander accepts the challenge and the First Starstrike Shoal Cluster was arrayed against the Jokers on an open field.
“We hit them hard and fast” Kay ordered her troops, they trusted her and she believed they needed to engage in this raid to keep the unit alive. “The Shoal Clusters are garrison units’ older units and failed warriors who don’t experience facing a frontal assault often. They are used to facing raids from pirates not an organised assault force. We hit them and we keep going, hovercraft maintain the flanks, Battle Armour initiate swarm attacks as you come to targets.” She ordered the units without giving them a moment longer she activated the comm again “Charge!”
The Wyld’s Jokers moved forward quickly with Kay’s Ryoken II moving quickly at the front its particle cannons alive as she charged the enemy. One blast and then another ripped across Clan Sea Fox units burning away armour and pitting the enemy targets. Kay’s particle cannons found the cockpit of two BattleMechs in a row as she reached shorter range, in among the Sea Fox BattleMechs, vehicles and infantry Kay unloaded volley after volley of short-range missiles taking out several other units as her command pushed through their lines.
“Come around, we’re going through them again!” She ordered looking at their losses she’d lost two Mechs, four vehicles and six battle armoured troopers in the initial encounter. “Swift Wing, strike them now!” She ordered switching the comm to a secondary comm circuit. From above the Sea Fox unit four aerospace forces dived through the clouds blowing through the picket aircraft deployed by the Sea Foxes. Only two of the Jokers made it to their target but their attack led to the entire Sea Fox force being carpeted by inferno jelly setting BattleMechs, vehicles and infantry on fire with sticky burning jelly. “Back through them!”
The remaining Jokers charged together breaking through the Sea Fox lines taking out several more of the enemy units who were weakened by the inferno attack. Several of the Jokers also fell but the mercenary command remained intact coming out the other side. “This is Tassa Kay to Sea Fox force, I understand there is a clan ritual known as Hegira. I offer you that now before you completely lose your command.” She broadcast as the Jokers came around for another pass through the crippled Sea Fox Cluster. “Jokers prepare for another pass!” She ordered in the last attack several of the Jokers had combined their fire taking out extra Sea Fox units but it also meant the next time they attacked the Clansmen would also be released from their dueling laws.
“Mercenary force, we accept Hegira, the field is yours” a male Sea Fox warrior replied a few moments before Kay ordered another charge.
“And our Isorla?”
“When you are ready, we will release a Trinary of Stalking Spider II BattleMechs as agreed” the Sea Fox commander said. The salvage from the held battlefield would make up for their losses while the Trinary of Isorla would allow the Jokers to form a second combined arms battalion making them an even more potent force. As the Jokers had held the field, they were allowed to leave unmolested by the Sea Foxes.
-
Wow, these past years have been brutal and intense.
You want intense? To quote Sir Michael Caine it's time to "Blow the Bloody doors off" and have a bit of fun. There are moments in this next update I have planned for years and I mean years. And there are surprises in this update that aren't even the biggest ones to come. >:D
Battlefield
Algedi, District of Dieron
2nd July 3117
In the last month two additional regiments of District of Dieron warriors had been killed attempting to hold control of Alegdi from the Rasalhague Dominion, it had resulted in the deaths of Rasalhague Dominion Khan Michael Hawkins and Loremaster Boris Jorgensson gutting the Clan’s leadership. Unfortunately, all of the defenders’ efforts had been in vain and among all of the death and destruction around them Warlord Akira Tormark had been forced to admit defeat.
Walking through the wreckage the Warlord approached a small clearing in front him stood saKhan Angela Bekkar, the now de-facto leader of the Rasalhague Dominion. “Warlord Tormark, are you ready to end this trial, Quiaff?” She asked as he approached in a half moon crescent around his position, he saw several more Ghost Bear warriors stood watching.
“I am” he said keeping his head bowed low
“And with it the District of Dieron will also surrender as agreed?”
“What’s left of it will surrender.” He spoke carefully picking his words not announcing a full surrender, which was what the Ghost Bears had demanded.
“Which means what exactly?”
“You have targeted us when we were not the aggressor who started this war.” He said “the Draconis Combine have claimed many of our worlds, the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth have also taken many worlds.” He explained
“And the remains will be turned over to the Rasalhague Dominion without a fight, Quiaff?” She repeated becoming frustrated
“Aff, the District of Dieron will not resist you further on our remaining worlds.” He said “but I cannot be held accountable to the actions taken by those individual worlds.”
“What does that mean?”
“I was informed before coming here that certain worlds have already decided that the Rasalhague Dominion will not be their new leadership.” Akira Tormark finally said looking up seeing Angela Bekker’s face he smiled
“And who will they now answer to? Your nation has been torn into by all of your neighbours, you have fought against them, now what will they do?”
“Turn to another nation.” Tormark said drawing it out further “the Star League Protectorate have taken over stewardship over the systems of Dieron, Styx, Atherny, Pike, Kervil, Telos and Al Na’ir. All the defence forces for those worlds will answer to the SLDF.” He said “the other worlds, what’s left of them will be yours.” In total including the world they stood on the Rasalhague Dominion would take control of ten new systems but the two prizes of the nation Dieron, with its shipyard, and Al Na’ir, with its multiple BattleMech factories would not go to the Rasalhague Dominion.
“You cannot do that!” Bekker shouted angrily her Clan had been hurt in this war, and there was more fighting to be done even after today, the factories and shipyards of the remaining systems would make the prize worthy of those sacrifices and fuel the Dominion’s continued battles.
“I did not, Empress Omiko Kurita, the guardian of Dieron has decided the fate of her people.”
“I will make the rest of those worlds surrender to us.” She snapped angrily
“But as of this morning they are not part of the District of Dieron which was party to your trial Clanswoman, they are part of the Star League Protectorate now, good luck in…” Tormark didn’t finish his taunt instead there was a crack of a sidearm firing and Akira Tormark was taken down by a shot to the head. Angela Bekkar stood there in stunned silence as she stared at the corpse beside her, she saw Star Colonel Ruben Mansdotter holding his weapon.
“What have you done?” She snapped angrily he looked at her stunned at her reaction and began to speak “we were in a Circle of Equals! He was under a flag of truce!” She said turning towards him “now you have you broken a Circle, marking my honour and putting at risk our agreement with the District!” She continued he began to speak “words cannot answer for this Star Colonel, you will meet me in a Circle of Equals!” She said looking at the corpse once more before moving away.
The Rasalhague Dominion took control over the remaining worlds within the next few days ten systems in total with little to no resistance from any of the worlds. True to Tormark’s words the remaining seven worlds now benefited from SLDF reinforcements both on the ground and in space. While the Rasalhague Dominion most likely still held an advantage over the Inner Sphere defences the combined strength of the Protectorate forces and its navy had given them a significant boost in strength.
On Algedi the Rasalhague Dominion allow the remaining two regiments of District of Dieron forces to retreat from the world among them is Tai-sa Harold Nakayama of the shattered Forty-third District of Dieron Regulars he was pryed out of the cockpit of his broken Akuma BattleMech and evacuated into the Protectorate alone with the remains of his battalion which had taken the name Nakayama’s Blood during the battles on Dieron. The unit had a hatred of all things Clan from its warriors to its technology refusing to take any within their command instead of signing on with the Star League forces the unit goes independent and becomes a mercenary command.
From the forces the District of Dieron provide the Star League Protectorate there is enough to field a heavily under-strength Division of troops for the SLDF when reconstituted to Star League standards along with five WarShips. The shipyard and factories taken as part of the District would in time help reinforce these units but the once powerful District’s forces had been reduced to an almost negligible strength. Under Star League Protectorate governance, Dieron and its other worlds are added to the Northwind EDZ initially until a decision was made on how the worlds of the former District would be treated.
For the Rasalhague Dominion’s part the nation had lost nearly three Galaxies worth of troops along with four WarShips, their Khan and Loremaster. Once dispatching Star Colonel Jorgensson in a Circle of Equals Angela Bekkar became the next Khan of the Rasalhague Dominion and the rebuilding began. In an effort to recognize the newly captured worlds new position within the Dominion but also their previous position the new Khan names Algedi as the capital of a new Algedi District which will administer the worlds around it for the Rasalhague Dominion and institutes a massive rebuilding and investment program in the newly captured worlds. The Rasalhague Dominion also now has to contend with a longer border with the Draconis Combine than ever before and new borders with the powerful nations of the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate.
Bridge, Spirit of Northumberland (Endeavour-class Exploration Vessel)
Uncharted System
Deep Periphery
18th July 3117
At just over two hundred light years from the Free Worlds League’s periphery border and probably close to fifty light years from the Magistracy of Canopus the Spirit of Northumberland, the one and only Endeavour-class Exploration Vessel in operation, was at the point of turning around and heading back to the Inner Sphere. So far while they had ventured deep into the periphery and found many things, they had not discovered anything that would radically benefit the District of Lesnovo or the Free Worlds League. On the vessel’s command deck Captain Bruce Barnes watched his displays light up as the ship’s powerful sensors detected almost two dozen ships in close proximity to the jump point alarm bells sounded loudly. “Report” Barnes said from his command chair.
“We have three ships that can only be described as WarShips one of them is over a million tons!” The sensor operator Zhi Wei said looking up from his station before looking back at the sensor screen “the other two are smaller, but still approximately eight hundred thousand tons in gross weight.” He said looking at the data “the rest are no larger than twenty-five thousand tons… that can’t be right…”
“What is it, Wei?”
“Sir, I’m detecting Kearny-Fuchida readings from all of them” Wei said, jump core signals, from that number of small ships was unheard of. “All of them also have at least some damage.”
“Someone has access to some serious manufacturing capabilities.” Barnes said
“Aye, sir.”
“Captain, transmission coming in from the large ship an Admiral Alessandra Schiavon representing the Amaris Empire Remnant.” Lieutenant Eric Labotka from communications said.
“You’re fraking kidding me?” Barnes said stunned the Amaris Empire fell during the First Star League’s Civil War when the SLDF took revenge on Stefan Amaris the Usurper for his murder of the First Lord Richard Cameron and his family.
“Negative, sir”
“Put them on” he ordered
“I repeat this is Admiral Alessandra Schiavon of the Amaris Empire Remnant we are ready to offer our immediate surrender to the forces of the Star League Defence Force.” The voice said
“Hell” Barnes commented as Schiavon continued.
“We warn you that this system is not safe and we require immediate supplies, support and evacuation when possible.”
“What have we walked into?” Barnes wondered as the message began to repeat.
“Sir, further contact! Burning towards the Jump Point at maximum range, I count four, five… no six capital contacts! At their current speed they’ll be here in fourteen hours”
“What in the…” Barnes began but Wei interrupted “sir, they are Casper Drones!”
“Get me on line with Schiavon now!” He ordered “Engineering, this is the Captain, I want you to begin a slow charge of the KF drive the minimum needed to ensure we can jump in fourteen hours.”
“It’ll risk the drive but we’ll do what we can.”
“Captain, I have Schiavon on comms” Labotka said
“This is Captain Bruce Barnes of the Spirit of Northumberland to Admiral Schiavon please respond.”
“Captain, welcome to the Illion system, what’s left of it anyway.” Schiavon began “do you represent the Star League? Our sensors recognize the design of your vessel as a prototype Star League vessel.”
“Negative, we represent the District of Lesnovo of the Free Worlds League.” Barnes replied letting it sink in for a moment “we are here on a peaceful mission of exploration. How did you get here?”
“The Free Worlds League has expanded this far?” Schiavon said surprised “can you offer us assistance?”
“We are exploring space we don’t have the resources to fight off six Casper Drones.”
“We will be ready to jump to Cydonis in fourteen hours if you are?” Schiavon asked
“Yes, we’ll be ready.” Barnes replied confident his engineering team would be ready “at Cydonis will we be safe?”
“For a period of time” Schiavon said “we should be able to resupply at one of our repair caches before the Caspers track us. Captain, I need to attend to my people if you cannot assist us militarily, then we can discuss this further when we are at Cydonis? We’ll transfer you the jump coordinates.”
“Of course,” Barnes replied cutting the link “I want sensors to check every single ship in this flotilla and prepare an inter system probe send it towards the Caspers see if we can glean some information on them too.”
---
Fourteen hours later the Caspers entered range of the weapons of the fleet both of the smaller ships of the Remnant fleet which the Spirit of Northumberland had been informed was classed as a Grozny-class Frigates had turned their broadsides towards the Caspers each ship acted like a small McKenna-class Battleship, their sides lined wth Heavy Navy Particle Cannons. Together they began to fill space with weapons fire trying to bring down the incoming Caspers. The Fearless-class Assault Ship, which was Schiavon’s flagship, did the same adding Medium Naval Particle Cannons to the mix.
“Incoming return fire” Wei reported the three capital ships countered the incoming capital missiles with their own Barracuda capital missiles while the capital lasers and particle cannons weren’t as accurate at this range. All around the Spirit small ships were jumping in groups to escape the system. The approaching Caspers had done something that the Star Leagues couldn’t, each of them had launched a wing of aerospace fighters which were also charging towards them.
"We are being ordered by Schiavon to jump clear.” Labotka commented from the side of the bridge.
“Negative, we remain until the last of the small craft are clear.” During their time in the system with the fleet Barnes had learned that the small craft all carried civilians, what was left of the Empire’s civilian population. They had also learned that the “Empire” once had four well developed systems the people all of them descendants of the people who had once populated the Terran Hegemony when it was ruled by Stefan Amaris, they had left during the Liberation campaign sneaking through SLDF’s lines with three WarShips and half a dozen JumpShips. Amaris wanted them to set up before he arrived, the plan being for Stefan to retreat from Terra should the SLDF reach the planet on his dedicated WarShip RWS Stefan’s Audacity. Amaris had never arrived instead the people had settled on the worlds and built up the four colonies breaking up their JumpShips for parts while keeping the three WarShips as museum pieces. Like the people of the Star League, they had built shipyards and vessels able to transport their populations between worlds but they had also built Casper drones fearful that the Star League would find them. Everything had been peaceful in the systems for centuries until about twenty years ago when something had gone wrong with the Caspers and now they were hunting the civilian population with only the three WarShips capable of defending them.
As one of the Caspers exploded in a ball of flames one of the two Grozny-class vessels took a particle cannon hit from the approaching Caspers armour burned and fell away from the WarShip as the last civilian ship jumped away. “Fortuna is jumping” Wei said naming the damaged Frigate, “Medea is also charging its drive” he said looking over.
“Navigation, lock course, helm, jump when ready” Barnes finally said watching the two Grozny-class ships jump clear. As the enemy fighters descended on the Calypso, the Fearless-class Assault Ship, which would be last to leave the sensors on the Spirit registered two particle cannon hits on the vessel before the Spirit itself jumped clear.
Moments passed and there was no sign of Schiavon’s flagship then finally the battered WarShip appeared. “Message from Calypso, they welcome us to the Cydonis system we should have at least a week before local patrols find us, meanwhile we are to fall in with the fleet as they head to one of their supply depots.” Labotka said Barnes sat shaking his head at what they had witnessed, they were on the run from drones built by an Empire long thought extinct it was like something out of a science fiction movie.
Inbound flight
El Dorado, Markesan Operational Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
19th July 3117
In the heart of the Federated Suns the system of El Dorado had little to fear from external threats but as a jewel of the Succession State and the heart of technology and manufacturing it was also a prize worthy of defence as a result the Sixth New Avalon Guards RCT defended the world. As her carrier craft had required maintenance at a different base Leftenant Duchess Leah Davion and her wingman had launched before they entered the atmosphere and now the two Cutlass OmniFighters were cruising over the beautiful world.
Cruising her aircraft over the ground below Leah hated that she’d been deployed to a “safe” world knowing her father had something to do with it ensuring she’d gone somewhere trouble wouldn’t follow. “Tower this is Cutlass Flight, inbound on base from east requesting permission to be allowed to land.” She called out on the radio but there wasn’t an immediate answer. “Tower this is Cutlass flight copy?”
“Affirmative, Cutlass you are cleared to land at runway one, traffic is clear.” The tower finally responded.
“Received Cutlass One and Two inbound” she said turning the seventy-ton aircraft towards the planet behind her the second Cutlass followed closely maintaining formation “down we go Two, stay on my wing.”
“Affirmative One, I’m on your wing.” Both aircraft continued to descend towards the surface their landing gear lowering as they closed on the surface, the two Cutlass landed within moments of each other touching the hard ferrocrete rolling to a stop. Leah was surprised that no-one had approached them on the runway.
“Guess we’re taxing” she said glancing over at the other Cutlass. The two aircraft rolled across the runway onto a taxi lane and towards one of the massive hangers at the entrance of the hanger there was a Rapier Aerospace Fighter so she guessed this was the right place. The two aircraft entered the hanger and Leah saw a group of people were gathered around a holo-tank “Two, stay with the aircraft, I’m going to find out what in New Avalon’s name is going on.” She said releasing her harness and opening the cockpit, standing up she triggered the automatic ladder which dropped a chain ladder from the side of the aircraft which allowed her to get to the ground.
Walking across the ground she headed to holo-tank “what is going on?” She asked expecting to know why everyone’s attention had been drawn away from work. Looking up at the holo image she realized it was a news broadcast from the Draconis March News Service, the headline at the bottom ready “Anjin Muerto falls to Clan Nova Cat” however the image was most startling. The Hologram played an image of a large battle-damaged Federated Suns WarShip, an Indefatigable-class Battleship Leah believed, taking a series of heavy hits to the rear of the ship the last was most definitely a naval gauss rifle shot. The twisting slug slammed into the upper port side of the WarShip tearing down through the ship’s hull one of the massive engines was blown completely off the vessel’s hull by the hit. As the WarShip continued to take hits it began to roll over onto its port side and then dive into the atmosphere Leah Davion stood like the others transfixed on the image for several moments before the video cut away. She knew that even though the WarShip was 1.8 million tons in weight that there was no way that the ship was surviving the re-entry nor were any of the eight hundred crew that were on board.
Leah had seen simulations before showing what happened when a WarShip entered the atmosphere, the ship would burn, its ammunition would cook off and more than likely explode ripping the vessel apart from within destroying the ship long before it made it to the ground. An area of the ground would be showered by wreckage from above probably killing dozens more if it happened over a populated area. While it was horrible to see Leah wondered if her assignment here would last very long if the Nova Cats were continuing to be so active.
Trials of Possession
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
29th July 3117
While a District Capital of the Free Worlds League Lesnovo also had a growing population that considered themselves to be Clansmen. It had started with the arrival of refugees from the destroyed Smoke Jaguar Clan, the former Nova Cats the Liger Warriors and then over the years more clansmen exiled from their own Clans or survivors from the Homeworlds had made their way to the back reaches of the Free Worlds League and Periphery. When Khan Petra Furey had become Khan of the reborn Clan Smoke Jaguar on the Lesnovo world of Twin Suns and then later leader of the entire district it had added further legitimacy to the Clansmen there. While news of the reborn Smoke Jaguars had passed around the Inner Sphere quickly few had taken notice of a group of “wannabees” the real Smoke Jaguars of old were long dead and the new Clan was not a threat.
To the Clans the reborn Smoke Jaguars were more of a curiosity than anything serious and they weren’t powerful enough to rejoin the other Clans, they were too far from the other Clans to be part of their society and their subservience to the Free Worlds League system of Government made it impossible for them to be classed as Clan.
Not all of the Clans thought of the Smoke Jaguars as insignificant however the Sea Foxes actively traded with them from their two trade systems on the border of the District of Lesnovo while the Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward wished to know more about them to see if they fought like Clansmen or the Inner Sphere forces they were allied with. Dispatching the Tenth Ebon Guard Cluster to the region she had ordered them to engage the Clansmen on their own territory and see exactly how the “Clan” fought.
The Tenth’s Batchall was heard by all of the world of Lesnovo as the unit approached the planet but it was answered by one voice Khan Petra Furey herself. The Ebon Guard Cluster’s commander Star Colonel Dwyane Shaw explained exactly why his unit were approaching Lesnovo to engage the Smoke Jaguars in a series of honour Trials and Trials of Possession to answer questions the Loremaster of the Clans had placed on their existence. Khan Petra Furey accepts the challenge and informs the Tenth that the First Jaguar’s Fang Cluster and the Clusters of the Liger Warriors Galaxy would meet the Ebon Guard Cluster in any trial they called for she also grants the Ebon Cluster Safcon allowing them to land on the planet unmolested. On the planet’s surface and in its atmosphere over the course of the next month the Ebon Cluster engage the Smoke Jaguars in various Trials of Possession winning the majority of them but also losing several trials. The Smoke Jaguars win a lot of honour by fighting completely within the rules of Zellbrigen and are able to capture several Clan OmniMechs during the Trials including a Tomahawk OmniMech.
Before the Ebon Guard Cluster leave Lesnovo members of the unit that had survived the Trials of Possession are invited by Khan Petra Furey to a reborn Hunting Ritual which new Smoke Jaguars, born or adopted, must undertake before joining the Clan. The Hunting Ritual involves hunting down several large predators that roam the land on Lesnovo, most of them are native to the world but the Jaguars have imported several from the system known as Twin Sons, where the Clan was reborn. Several of the Ebon Guard warriors are successful in the Hunting Ritual however several more fall in to the beasts. The Ebon Guard Cluster leaves again protected by Safcon impressed with what it had experienced but confused that the Smoke Jaguars remain working with the Inner Sphere forces around them.
Author note: Some housekeeping which I'm putting here and not at the start for a reason. Firstly my thanks to marauder648 for "Delranes Fighting Ships" as you probably guessed quite a bit of the above piece in the deep periphery was borrowed from there given that the Endeavour, Fearless and the RWS Stefan's Audacity are all in that fantastic piece of work. PS, I also know exactly what I'm doing with them don't worry this is going to be fun. Second inspiration (which you might have got vibes from is the Re-imaged BattleStar Galactica it's been done to death in BattleTech but I really couldn't help myself) (remember the years I mentioned at the start Delranes came out almost 5 years ago, the Grozny was posted 5 years ago - I plan ahead)
Second note the other WarShip the Grozny was designed by Liam's Ghost and can be found in the below link
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/groznyy-class-heavy-frigate-like-a-cannon-made-of-glass/msg1327386/#msg1327386 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/groznyy-class-heavy-frigate-like-a-cannon-made-of-glass/msg1327386/#msg1327386)
Third note about the last bit (I know where that's going too and I'm going to be throwing some curve balls so be prepared to catch)
All that and I had a Davion Princess involved in this update and she wasn't even the star ;D
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Nice 8)
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Hmm, Imperial Remnant?? Have I heard that before? ;)
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Hmm, Imperial Remnant?? Have I heard that before? ;)
Little bit of that too
Briefing Room, Spirit of Northumberland
Asteroid belt, Sancerre
Deep Periphery
1st August 3117
The jump to Sancerre had bought the Spirit of Northumberland and the survivor fleet from the Amaris Empire almost two weeks and still there was no sign of Casper drones. The fleet had jumped to a pirate point in the Sancerre system near a dense asteroid belt because all of the ships in the fleet had jump drives and transit drives the Calypso, Fearless-class Assault Ship, had been able to lead the entire fleet into the asteroid belt to the hidden fleet anchorage within. Initially Captain Barnes, onboard the Northumberland, had questioned how they would remain hidden from the drones that patrolled the system but Admiral Schiavon had explained that the Casper drones followed a set patrol route around the system and instead of burning their engines at all times they spent most of their time “coasting” around the system at 2G until their advanced sensors detected a target. Because of damage the Calypso and the other ships had caused in previous fights there were gaps in the patrol schedule giving them time. This had allowed the fleet to dock the Fortuna at an asteroid base and begin some much-needed repairs Schiavon had explained that while the base locations were known to the Caspers they didn’t class them as a threat unless they were occupied by humans and so supply and repair bases littered the four systems of the pocket nation leaving humanity with a much-needed lifeline.
With work being done on her ships Admiral Alessandra Schiavon had visited the Spirit of Northumberland and she had exchanged history with Captain Barnes. She’d not been surprised to hear that the Amaris Empire had fallen not long after her ancestors had left the Empire’s claimed space Aleksandr Kerensky’s rage had been unstoppable. She had however been surprised to hear that the Star League army had left so soon after their victory not to return to the Inner Sphere after the multiple Succession Wars and to return not as the Star League Army but as the Clans who had become conquerors instead of the protectors its army had originally been. Surprise had turned to anger when she’d heard that a new SLDF had been formed and that Star League like the first and like the Amaris Empire Remnant had turned to Casper Drones to supplement their defences. “So, the same mistakes have been made again?” she suggested looking at Barnes across the round table in the meeting room.
“We’ll see” Barnes said “so far the Star League has not tried to exert control over its member states instead letting them continue as they always have but should its rein continue, I’m sure changes will come to all member states.”
“And you said that your nation is a district of the Free Worlds League?” She asked she was in her early sixties, ten years Barnes senior at least, her black uniform was lined with red which went around the edges of the jacket and down the legs from hip to foot. On the left breast there was the shark symbol of House Amaris overlayed over the Cameron star.
“Yes, the District of Lesnovo has fully autonomy under the Free Worlds League government we share mutual defence with other nations but are entirely independent to make our own choices under the FWL banner. We are part of the parliament and are part of the election process for a new Captain-General.”
“Where House Marik will remain in command whatever happens?”
“No, one non-Marik Captain-General has already served in the League’s short history since reforming, members of House Marik are more likely but it’s not set in stone.” Barnes said defensively.
“So perhaps we could find a place there?” Schiavon asked carefully
“Most likely, the rest of the League will want some sort of access to you but there are plenty of open places for a population as small as yours to fit in. Khan Furey would no doubt welcome your naval support alone.” Barnes admitted the three WarShips would be a significant increase in firepower not to mention the wealth the twenty-two Sub-Compact Core equipped ships would bring if they were traded away, this system could be just the find that his mission was sent out to look for.
“Khan Furey?” Schiavon asked unfamiliar with the position held by the leader of the District of Lesnovo.
“Khan Furey is a refugee herself; her people were originally members of Clan Smoke Jaguar which was destroyed by the Inner Sphere. Her people have settled in the Free Worlds League as members of its people and while they hold onto their identity they have agreed to live by our rules and fit in with our culture. So far, they have proven their worth to the Free Worlds League which has shielded them from external enemies.”
“Do you think they’d welcome members of House Amaris?” Schiavon asked sceptically
“Technically you aren’t members of that House” Barnes suggested “you carried their name here but your people built your own place out here in the Periphery all by yourselves. You didn’t follow Amaris path instead you followed something closer to that of the Star League.” He noted having listened to their history. “The Jaguars believe they have inherited the true Star League’s legacy through their heritage with the Clans and the First Star League below, I think perhaps they’d look at you in a similar way.” He suggested truthfully, he had no idea how the Jaguars would react but he had to say something. Before she could say anything further the comm panel on the table blinked active. “This is Barnes go ahead.”
“Sir, message from the Calypso, they have intercepted a distress signal from the Lakota system. It suggests that four hundred survivors are in that system in a series of bunkers looking for extraction. They have a DropShip but no way to extract their personnel.” The comm. officer reported.
“It can’t be.” Schiavon whispered looking at Barnes “it’s been more than a year since we’ve encountered anyone left on the planets.” She said “I can’t risk the Fearless for four hundred people.” She then said “Fearless is the only ship I could send with a way to get them out, the Frigates don’t have the standing power of their own and the civilian ships would need to dock and manually transfer everyone off a DropShip.”
“Northumberland could do it, with a little help.” Barnes suggested “we need a distraction, jump one of your ships into the range of the Caspers and draw them away. I’ll take Northumberland in, and extract the DropShip, we have two Collars on this ship I can dock them directly to us and jump back out.”
“Our DropShips are surface to orbit capable only, you’ll have to meet them in orbit.” Schiavon pointed out. Because only the WarShips could transport DropShips most of their ships were designed to go up and down between the planet’s surface and orbital docks where the civilian ships could load personnel. In many ways it was less efficient than the JumpShip/DropShip model employed by the Inner Sphere but it did make the ships quite flexible in being able to jump at any time.
“We can do it; we have a smaller jump signature than your bigger ships if you draw away the Caspers far enough we’ll be fine. We have to try” Barnes suggested
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“We have to try” Barnes repeated the words he’d spoken now four days before in the meeting room with Admiral Schiavon. As promised the Medea had jumped in and gotten the attention of three Caspers which were now chasing down the Frigate buying the Spirit of Northumberland time to enter the system to evacuate the civilians. Now in orbit over the planet of Lakota the Spirit of Northumberland was ready to evacuate the civilians but there was an issue their DropShip had been disabled by ground-based Drones and couldn’t fly instead the MacMahon would have to be used to evacuate the civilians and he’d have to use the Cemetery Wind to protect them.
Falling away from the Northumberland the MacMahon was already heading to the surface the old Fortress-class DropShip would be the civilians only hope of evacuation. “Good luck” Barnes whispered “sensors keep an eye on the Medea and the Caspers we cannot be caught flat footed. Weapons we may need to support the ground forces so ready the lasers.”
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The MacMahon landed close to the survivor’s bunker and the Cemetery Wind’s eight remaining BattleMechs and six vehicles deployed in an inverted crescent moon deployment pattern waiting for the incoming drones as civilians began streaming from the bunker’s exits. According to the survivors the Drones were built into UrbanMech BattleMechs and they attacked regularly once they had reloaded their weapons, almost a Battalion of UrbanMechs were expected. Sitting on the bridge of the MacMahon Expedition Leader Christoffer Trossen was reminded of the old joke scenario of how long an Atlas could last against endless waves of light BattleMechs. Unfortunately, today he didn’t have an Atlas to counter the incoming UrbanMechs only longer ranged weapons to try and whittle them down. The Long Tom artillery cannon on the MacMahon’s nose roared to life beginning to bombard the incoming UrbanMechs, this was followed by autocannons, missiles, particle cannons and lasers firing in support before the Cemetery Wind employed their own weapons.
The weapons of the Fortress brought down multiple drone Mechs as they approached but there were many of them and the first two members of the Cemetery Wind fell quickly under heavy fire from the incoming Mechs. “We’re two hundred in” one of the bridge officers said “they aren’t going fast enough” another said “autocannon hit on the right side, we can only take too many of those, Commander” another said
“We need to hold” Trossen said seeing that two of the support vehicles were down as well as a third BattleMech fell.
“We’re three hundred in, the survivors said there’s just over one hundred waiting, we’re going to be tight.” A crew member reported.
“Have the deck crews pack them in wherever there’s space!” Trossen said watching another Mech fall “we’re going to have nothing left at this rate.” He said “Lieutenant Knappe, prepare to fall back the last group is coming across.”
“We will be staying behind Trossen; this is unfortunately a one-way trip for us.”
“Negative, that was not the plan, the Northumberland will begin a bombardment in concert with the MacMahon to cover your retreat MechWarrior.”
“Not enough Trossen, we all knew this when we came out today, get the people safe and our mission is done.” Knappe responded as Trossen saw his BattleMech take an autocannon hit high up tearing off one of the Mech’s arms.
“We’re full!”
“Knappe!” Trossen shouted but he could see the MechWarrior’s Mech take another two hits and go down, it didn’t look like it was getting back up. “Cargo Bay, button us up. Helm, get us airborne when the cargo bay is locked up. Northumberland, we need assistance, the Wind are not returning.” Trossen said into the comms. As the MacMahon prepared to lift off Naval Lasers stabbed into the ground near the DropShip clearing away several of the Drone UrbanMechs. The weapons of the Spirit of Northumberland were most often used to assist with scientific research missions but they were still capital grade weapons which were devastating against BattleMechs of any size.
As the Fortress began to rise off the ground the lasers continued to stab into the ground taking out droves of incoming UrbanMechs. The last members of the MacMahon’s ground defence force were either killed by the remaining UrbanMechs or in the middle of the bombardment, the unit’s sacrifice had saved over four hundred lives but it was still a bitter pill to swallow. Once back out of the atmosphere the MacMahon re-joined the Spirit of Northumberland and the ship moved clear of the planet below jumping clear before any of the Caspers could return. Elsewhere in the system the Medea also jumped clear of the system having taken a couple of non-critical hits and severely damaged one of the chasing Caspers. Once they had re-joined the survivor fleet, they loaded all the supplies they could and began the long journey away from the former Amaris Empire worlds and back towards the Inner Sphere leaving the remaining Caspers to patrol the four dead systems.
House Arano, Throne Room
Cordia City, Coromodir
New Quarter, Fronc Reaches
9th August 3117
While the rest of the Fronc Reaches was continuing to slip into turmoil and Civil War with little to no leadership coming out of Fronc the world of Coromodir slowly begins to regain some of its long-lost prominence. Countess of Coromodir Kamea Arano II now sat on the throne of Coromodir she stood as her Chief Advisor Alexander Madeira and Colonel-Marshal Ann Ogbomo approached. Kamea was a tall woman with jet black hair, she had a red and gold Māori tribal tattoo which covered her chin while her red and gold sleeveless dress showed another tattoo down her left arm while behind her a flag was held high above the throne on it was a Gold Great Cormorant on a red field.
“Welcome Colonel-Marshal” she greeted the commander of the Colonial Marshals on Coromodir.
“Thank you, Countess” Ann Ogbomo said bowing deeply her head was shaved bald, the dark skin glistening in the light of the room, she was also tall, almost of the Clan Elemental breed but unlike the elementals she was also lean and athletic.
“Colonel-Marshal, I am sending your unit off of Coromodir to assist the nearby worlds of the Fronc Reaches.”
“You do not want us here?” Ogbomo asked surprised her thick Haitian accent showing her emotions.
“Of course, I do” she said giving the Colonel-Marshal a disarming smile, “but I believe there are other worlds in greater need than Coromodir at present.” She said glancing at Alexander Madeira nodding.
“Colonel-Marshal” he began he was a little older than Kamea with dark hair glasses and a dark well-trimmed goatee and a business suit. “Coromodir is currently peaceful, we have the home guard present here and Rampart Battalion which will be more than capable of looking after House Arano’s interests in this system. We believe that your Marshals can, and should, assist the whole of the Reaches Coromodir will help its neighbours.” He said as Countess Kamea Arano II approached and leaned close to kiss her cheek.
“A hui hou” she said in the traditional Māori language “until we meet again” she repeated in English “your troops go with our blessing Colonel-Marshal. Protect the Fronc Reaches.” She said dismissing the woman. Ogbomo replied by giving her a short bow then smartly about faced and left. “We’re taking a risk deploying that regiment away from here” she said glancing at Alexander Madeira.
“With great risk comes great rewards.”
“Without foresight or vision, the people will be lost” she said quoting her family motto.
“And through your vision, the people will Behold our Splendour” he said quoting his own family motto with a wide smile, Lady Arano had a plan now they had to see how it worked out.
Trials of Possession
Rasalhague Dominion
18th August 3117
Continuing their campaign of taking advantage of the Rasalhague Dominion’s preoccupation with the Draconis Combine and with the newly captured District of Dieron worlds Clan Coyote strike at the Rasalhague Dominion’s back challenging them to three Trials of Possession for the systems of Kandis, Stanzach and Memmingen. With front line forces previously being sent to the front lines only garrison troops remain with no more than a star of Mechs in each system and the rest made up of armour, battle armour and in Stanzach’s case a cluster of conventional infantry troops.
On the world of Stanzach the cluster of infantry troopers recruited from the population of the world faced off against a mixed star of ProtoMechs and Battle Armour in a wooded area three kilometres from the capital. What follows is a classic cat and mouse game between the more numerous infantry soldiers against the fewer but heavier Coyote armoured force only the few are hunting the many. After nearly a month of heavy fighting with both sides taking significant losses the Coyotes are victorious claiming control over the system thirty-two surviving infantry men are recruited into the Ninth Recon Cluster with the majority given Inner Sphere made Battle Armour suits and the remaining troops trained as crewmen of two Huitzilopochtli AAA Assault Tanks attached directly to the star.
Planetary Assault
Pollux/Devil’s Rock, Talitha EDZ
Star League Protectorate
22nd August 3117
Continuing their drive towards Terra Clan Wolf launches twin attacks on the Pollux and Devil’s Rock systems with both attacks supported by a pair of newly constructed Thebes-class Heavy Cruisers and several Morrigan Pocket WarShips both are brand new classes constructed to serve the Wolf Clan. With no naval defences of their own the ground forces are forced to attempt to resist the incoming Clansmen and hope they do not resort to planetary bombardment.
On the ground the two planetary guard units, the Third Sirius Regimental Brigade and two Special Operations Commands resist the incoming Wolves holding them off as civilian DropShips escape the planet carrying people away from the two worlds. The Wolf WarShips and their attending DropShips stop and board each DropShip in turn checking them for retreating warriors but find none instead they allow them to retreat.
WarShips from the Alua Australis and Oliver systems jump in and attempt to assist the ground forces bringing in additional mercenary forces to assist in the defence but the combined firepower against them is too much for the SLDF to break through en masse. While they are able to destroy the Wolf vessel Adolfus and several Morrigan Pocket WarShips in the Pollux system the SLS Africa and SLS Siberia, two Pinto-class Corvettes originally salvaged from the Fenwick system, are both destroyed in the Devil’s Rock system when they and their assault ships are unable to break through the Wolf blockade. Instead, the remaining SLDF forces screen retreating civilians and the two systems are essentially surrendered to the Wolves with the forces defending them left to fend for themselves.
As civilians retreat from the two invaded systems and several others around them unrest and anger quickly spreads inside the Star League Protectorate as neither system had dedicated WarShip defences while worlds closer to the core of the nation, which are not under threat, have heavy WarShip defences. While the political fallout from the retreat hurts the Star League Defence Force and to a lesser degree the Protectorate the offloading of Devil’s Rock and its criminal gangs is actually a relief for the Protectorate Intelligence as the trouble they caused needed to be constantly monitored. Star League Intelligence Command uses its links to these organisations to secret away several of its agents and equipment on Devil’s Rock ready to be used in a gurellia campaign. The debut of the Thebes and Morrigan classes both please Clan Wolf leadership and the victories bring the Clan closer to Terra after recent Rasalhague Dominion gains.
Author note: Thebes Heavy Cruiser (Derlanes) and Morrigan (Nelson) are borrowed from the two excellent marauder648 fan products. While House Arano... I couldn't not use them some way
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Trial of Possession
New Malibu, Qualip
Hell’s Horses OZ, Clan Occupation Zone
9th September 3117
The skies over New Malibu on the long thought dead world of Qualip were ablaze as DropShips and BattleMechs lit the sky with their fusion powered engines all of the commotion signaled Clan Wolf’s arrival to the battered world. Qualip had been a world which had benefited from the technology at the disposal of the original Star League and had become one of the victims of the early Succession Wars, a victim of the fighting between the Lyran Commonwealth and Draconis Combine. All but forgotten by the Inner Sphere the world had been found by Clan Wolf during the initial invasion of the Inner Sphere. The Wolves had found a bombed-out wreck of a planet with the only real habitable areas around the equatorial coasts and on the islands that dotted the world’s massive oceans. The land was stalked by creatures that had both been introduced to it during the Star League era and that had evolved there.
ilKhan Ulric Kerensky had seen Qualip’s potential he’d heard of the world through historical texts and after finding it had set about the Wolves using their technology to restore the planet to its former glory, and in turn showing the Inner Sphere that the Clans really were the reborn inheritors of the Star League. Unfortunately, Ulric like many others had fallen to the Clan system of honour and betrayal and with his death the Wolf’s initial interest in the world had also waned. With the Wolves moving out of their Occupation Zone and across Lyran Space into the Free Worlds League to establish their Empire the likely hood of any revival of Qualip had been remote, while the system resided inside Hell’s Horses territory, they knew nothing of the world.
Now the Wolves had returned to Qualip with the slamming down of BattleMech feet with the Clan deciding to once more take on the challenge of reviving the world’s fortunes and showing the entire Inner Sphere just what the Clans were capable of. “I Star Colonel Flavia Sender of the Clan Wolf Watch claim Kerensky’s Vision for Clan Wolf, who challenges me” the Wolf commander called out from her Tomahawk OmniMech as it landed on the planet. Her radio was met with silence. “Kerensky’s Vision will become a symbol of all the Clans can accomplish and this city will rise again.” She stated as other Wolf Mechs and DropShips began to come into land around the battered area.
In the coming months the Wolves would establish a colony in what would become known as the New Malibu area which hosted a deep-water bay giving access to the wider world beyond and had been sheltered from much of the nuclear fallout and radiation. The Wolves offer incentive's for workers and scientists to travel to Kerensky’s Vision by offering greater freedoms, more credits for their work and additional chances of advancement in their field. The downsides were that much of the work would include cleaning out irradiated landscapes and radioactive mining equipment that dotted the landscape.
Elsewhere Galaxy Commander Alaric Ward seizes the Sea Fox trade world of Ideyid in a Trial of Possession in retaliation for Clan Sea Fox’s continued trades with the Free Worlds League which were hindering Clan Wolf’s progress against the Succession State. With the Sea Fox Clan holding multiple systems the fight is a simple honour trial which Ward successfully wins without the need for serious losses on either side.
Mechbay, Warrior House Sortek Monestary
Buick Mountain Range, Marduk
Draconis March, Federated Suns
13th September 3117
Deep within the Buick Mountain Range on Marduk Warrior House Sortek had made its home over the last three years carving out a facility within the mountain which could house upwards of three thousand people in an emergency and was completely nuclear and orbital bombardment proof. The Warrior House could hold off an enemy for months in a siege using the Monestary’s defences to augment their firepower. An entire underground airfield allowed aerspace fighters to launch from the side of the mountain without fear of being bombed while there were several DropShip landing pads hidden on the surface of the mountain with each able to retract into the mountain. The leadership of the Warrior House had already sent a request to New Avalon requesting that the Warrior House be allowed to contract companies to build naval defence weaponry into the mountain given the location of Marduk on the Draconis Combine border.
Currently there was a little over four hundred personnel inside the base and the current mission was intended on changing that. Walking down the stainless steel steps to the reinforced base of the huge Mechbay Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek approached the four MechWarriors standing waiting for her Leftenants Chang Wong, Jessica Sortek, Cassidy Youngston and Mark Delanty. Each of them was dressed in the ceremonial hoodless robes of Warrior House Sortek with the insignia of the Federated Suns replacing the one of the Confederated Suns on the arms and on the left breast of their robes. Under their robes Imarra Sortek knew each had a leather sash that crossed their bodies and on it there was a vibroblade and a gauss pistol intended on giving the MechWarriors a fighting chance on any battlefield. Every member of the Warrior House was armed from the MechWarriors to the technicians and cooks everyone would step up to defend their home to the last if it came down to it.
“Good morning to you all” she said greeting them “when we all arrived here you were children, you were sent to our Warrior House to grow up, learn how to be warriors, adults and people of disciple. Now we are far from our homes and far from the nation we were all born into and sworn to protect” she said reminiscing a little remembering the Confederated Suns, her home all of their home, “however, we cannot remain in the past” she said continuing “your mission is to bring the word, and honour, of our Warrior House. Like you were sent to us our hope is your actions will bring recruits to our banner and bring honour to Warrior House Sortek.” She said walking from one end of the line to the other, all four of them were between eighteen and twenty years old far from being fully fledged MechWarriors and members of the Warrior House. “I do not expect you to fight the big battles that the Federated Suns is presently fighting, your lance will not be enough for that, instead you will travel the length and brenth of the Federated Suns and help its people with the smaller jobs that you find across this nation.” She stopped walking and turned to look back at the line of MechWarriors “Good Hunting, your personal belongings have been moved to the DropShip, get to your Mechs.” She commanded them each saluted her then turned and ran towards their Mechs leaving their robe with their technician each of them ascended to their Mech. Each of the Mechs had been picked specifically for this missing each was either a heavier medium BattleMech or a faster heavy BattleMech. Chang Wong’s Men Shen OmniMech was the first prepared it stepped clear of the gantry, built to be fast and capable of delivering a reasonable amount of firepower, Cassidy Youngston’s Ostol OTL-8E was next the sixty ton Mech was capable of delivering a withering amount of pulse laser fire which would make most Mechs the same size and smaller worry, Mark Delanty piloted the third BattleMech clear of the maintenance cradle was the pride of House Davion which had been given to the unit, a recently produced Centurion OmniMech. Finally, Jessica Sortek stepped forwards in her advanced fifty-ton Agrotera BattleMech the Mech’s Partial Wings giving it an almost bird-like Mech moved with the others heading for their Aurora class DropShip which would take them across the Federated Suns in their mission.
Trials of Possession
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
21st September 3117
Following recent successes by Clan Nova Cat against the Federated Suns the Succession State chose to strike back against the Nova Cats by challenging them to two Trials of Possession. On the worlds of Ebro and Sherwood they challenge the Nova Cats to Trials of Possession for control over both systems. Ebro fell in a quick trial with elements of the First Davion Guards RCT being successful against elements of the Four Hundred and Fifty-first Pouncer Cluster.
On the world of Sherwood Prince Luther Davion twisted the torso of his Dire Wolf OmniMech and blasted a Nova Cat SM1 Tank Destroyer with a full volley from the arm mounted lasers. Heat rose within the cockpit of the Mech but it bled off quickly, the SM1 was not so lucky the lasers bored through the vehicle’s armour killing the crew. He then twisted his Mech’s torso in the opposite direction and fired off a volley of long-range missiles striking another enemy Mech. The Federated Suns company were on top against the Four Hundred and Fifty-first Pouncer Cluster’s combined arms binary. “Star Colonel Maggie Nostra, this is Prince Luther Davion commander of the House Davion forces fielded against your unit, my people have…” he started twisting the Mech the opposite way and shooting down an enemy Pack Hunter BattleMech “…my people have destroyed half of your command” he said only to be interrupted again by an explosive blast on the Dire Wolf’s left side caused by an autocannon attack. “Accept my offer of hegira now, or lose your entire command” he said taking the Dire Wolf several steps forward he felt more autocannon shells strike the Dire Wolf’s thick hull he twisted the torso but his target continued its turn running round him.
Luther could break Zellbrigen and call-in support against the more mobile Nova Cat BattleMech but he didn’t want to, if he did it may give the Nova Cats an excuse to extend the battle, while they were far from any population zone there was always a risk. The one thing that Luther hated about combat was the chance of innocents being injured due to the fighting, he saw so many more options to fighting, he had tried to explain this to his father but in Burton Davion’s words “A Davion serves his people from the front-lines, he leads by example.” And the great Burton Davion should know he literally given an arm and a leg for their nation.
The rattle of more autocannon blasts to his OmniMech’s left leg brought him back to reality “Screw you then!” He snapped angrily slamming the leg down he twisted his Mech suddenly in the opposite direction and let rip with everything his Mech had left. The Dire Wolf’s cockpit became a furnace as the lasers, missiles and autocannons mounted on the OmniMech the weapons were focused on where Luther hoped his enemy would be as it circled his assault Mech. Multiple weapons missed their target but the majority tore into the speeding Huntsman tearing into the fifty-ton BattleMech battering through its armour and striking its internal structure.
Inside the Dire Wolf cockpit Luther struggled through the heat blinking his eyes rapidly as sweat poured down his face. He saw the Huntsman staggering about but amazingly still standing. He readied his weapons again ready to fire against the enemy OmniMech but noticed that it had shut down its targeting systems.
“Prince Davion this is Star Colonel Maggie Nostra, my OmniMech is crippled, my unit is defeated. I accept your offer of Hegira, well battled and bargained; I hope you treat this world as well as Clan Nova Cat has.” The enemy commander said Luther’s hands were on the triggers he could end his enemy’s life with a single pull of the trigger but he chose not to. He wondered about the Nova Cat commander’s words. Under the stewardship of Clan Nova Cat, the Sherwood system had experienced an economic boom often serving as a stepping point for goods traded from Clan Sea Fox to the Nova Cats. As a result of this position jump recharge stations had been built at both the Nadir and Zenith points and multiple mining operations had been built by the Nova Cats. Now Luther had brought these back into the Federated Suns but what extra attention would Sherwood get as another Federated Suns periphery world.
Scouting mission
Valencia, Nueva Castile
Deep Periphery
28th September 3117
Over the decades many Clans had come to the Nueva Castile, some as would be conquerors like the Ice Hellions, others like the remnants of the Alliance of Serpent Clans had come to the worlds retreating from the Inner Sphere having been forced back by the established Inner Sphere Clans, while others like the Goliath Scorpions had come retreating from the Clan’s greatest mistake the Society. None of the Clans that had come here had been able to establish a foothold, these worlds had become graveyards for the Clans and held many nightmares.
The world of Valencia was comfortable world with a plentiful water, comfortable tempretures, a slightly higher than standard gravity with a technologically basic but booming population. The world had been fought over several times by various Castilian factions, between the Castilians and the then invading Umayyid and then Clan forces but the world remained unspoiled and now Clan Goliath Scorpion saved from the abyss by Clan Blood Spirit had returned to the world, not as a conquering force but instead possibly trying to pass on what the Blood Spirits had done for them.
Both the Goliath Scorpions and Blood Spirits continued to battle the Society in the Homeworlds with worlds regularly exchanging hands or being completely lost in the fighting. Of the original thirty-six inhabited systems in the homeworlds and five inhabited Pentagon Worlds fourteen of the homeworlds and two of the Pentagon Worlds had been lost while only six of the remaining Homeworlds were held by the two Clans. Two worlds beyond the Homeworlds Colleen and Arizona were held by the Clans while the independent world of Fasa remained shared between the Clans and the Society.
The two Clans agreed that their greatest challenge at present was the lack of warriors, while both clans could breed new warriors and recruit freeborns from their civilians’ castes but they all lacked experience, something that was in dire need against the Society. Instead, they turned back to the remains of the Nueva Castile and began looking for warriors of the former Clans both had agreed that none of the fallen Clans would be resurrected instead any warriors found would be added to their own Toumans in Circles of Equals.
Back on Valencia the Goliath Scorpions waited for their scouts to return with news on what was available in the area Star Colonel Patrice Madsen sat in his Timber Wolf OmniMech waiting for the scouts to return. The sun was slowly beginning to lower in the sky as the first batch of five Boreas Cavalry Hovercraft began streaming from the treeline behind them several armoured vehicles drove behind them at a slower pace. Over the course of the next several hours sixteen of the twenty-five Boreas returned for several hours Patrice waited for the last group to return, it had been a minor miracle that the majority of the troopers had returned as it was to lose one group wasn’t the end of the world but he waited giving them the chance. Finally, the last three of the Boreas returned and behind them two entire trinaries of cobbled together BattleMechs with various paint schemes and technology, and several mixed stars of vehicles, armour and infantry.
“I am Star Colonel Patrice Madsen, you are welcomed by Clan Goliath Scorpion, whom am I addressing.”
“This is Connor Rood of the Ice Hellions, what is left of them.” The other warrior replied Patrice was able to lock in on a Linebacker OmniMech as the pilot’s Mech.
“Connor Rood, Galaxy Commander Connor Rood Quiaff?”
“Aff, I am he, what is it you want Goliath Scorpion? We are both here surviving but if you want your end to come then let us have at it.”
“Neg, Galaxy Commander, Clan Goliath Scorpion is no longer struggling to survive here. We have returned to the Homeworlds and are actively engaging the Society.” Patrice Madsen explained “I have not come here to annihilate your remaining forces.” He explained over the course of the last few hours nearly two Clusters worth of forces from various surviving Clans had moved into the area but Rood’s forces were by far the largest force to arrive so far.
“Then why are you here?”
“We want to offer you all a chance to strike back at the Society and redeem your names following the fall of your Clans.” Madsen said making sure he was transmitting to everyone present. “The Goliath Scorpions have liberated six of the Homeworlds from the Society. We plan on liberating the entire Kerensky Cluster, each of you has proven your worth by your very survival following the fall of your Clans, our invitation is simple. Join us, become parts of Clan Goliath Scorpion and return our homes to our Clans, each of you will face a Trial of Position and on success you will return as Clan warriors once more.”
“You say ‘Clans,’ but all I see is Goliath Scorpions. Who else has survived, who else continues to resist?” He asked by the sound of his voice he was wondering if the Inner Sphere Clans had returned to the Homeworlds.
“Clan Blood Spirit is also active in the homeworlds.”
“The Blood Spirits survive?” Rood said in wonderment, believing the story of their survival would be a worthy one. Madsen remained silent allowing the news to sink in that two Clans remained active in the homeworlds and that they were inviting these sons and daughters of Kerensky to return to the fold.
Off to his left-hand side he saw a Mech, three vehicles, an assortment of Battle Armour and infantry deactivated their targeting systems and moved to join the Goliath Scorpions. From the right a trio of VTOLs carrying the colours of Clan Hell’s Horses did the same flying over the Goliath Scorpion lines their weapons powered down. Rood’s forces remained stationary waiting their weapons and systems active, the force he had could do serious damage to Madsen’s force even in their battered state.
“What do you say you Connor Rood?”
“I say my Trial of Position will be here and now Star Colonel Patrice Madsen. Face me here and now on the mud and among the trees of Valencia. Many of my people have died here on this world, I will not leave it without a fight.”
“We did not come here to threaten your lives Galaxy Commander, but I will honour your request, if you honour mine. Win or lose your people will join the Goliath Scorpions.”
“Aff, I agree, well bargained and done.” Connor Rood said “clear a space!” He barked into the comm. his voice made it clear that it was a command and everyone listened regardless of what Clan they were a part.
Madsen remained where he was his Timber Wolf facing off against the Linebacker in a one-on-one duel, the Linebacker was lighter and faster but not nearly as well armed as the heavier Mech. With the others out of the way both Mechs began to move and fire in unison long range missiles and lasers from the Timber Wolf countered by particle cannons and missiles from the Linebacker. Both of the Mechs took hits as they moved and turned Rood’s Mech was the first to take major damage when one of its particle cannons alone with the entire arm it was mounted on fell from the OmniMech following damage it was a testament to Rood that he kept his Mech standing and moving despite the hit. Next the remaining particle cannon on the sixty-five-ton design found a weak spot in the Timber Wolf’s armour and one of the over left shoulder long range missile racks exploded following a critical hit. Madsen continued to move his seventy-five-ton OmniMech the left side of the Mech on fire as his Mech moved.
Missiles, lasers and particle cannon fire continued to be exchanged between the two OmniMechs until one of Rood’s particle cannon shots hit the Timber Wolf’s left knee causing it to explode knocking the Mech to the ground at the same time missiles from Madsen’s Timber Wolf blew through the armour of the Linebacker and cored its gyro. Neither Mech moved for several minutes and one of Madsen’s MechWarriors called an end to the Trial Techs prized open the two Mechs to find both Mech had been incapacitated by the damage done to their Mechs in a strange twist of fate both had been knocked unconscious by the fall.
Following the battle both had been evacuated to the Goliath Scorpion DropShips in the morning Madsen woke up on a bed in the infirmary and glanced over at Connor Rood who was sat on the other bed with his arm in a sling and his leg in plaster. “You fought well young, Scorpion.”
“As did you” Madsen said sitting up, he suddenly felt very dizzy thinking he’d gotten up too quickly but it was something more.
“Easy Madsen, you suffered a concussion in our draw.” Rood said reaching out
“Our draw?” He asked only now aware of the result, he’d initially thought he’d lost but now took in Rood’s injuries he was tall and lean, his head shaved bald, even with his injuries he looked dangerous at sixty-eight years old he was also old for a Clan MechWarrior.
“Aff, we did not defeat each other but you fulfilled your oath my forces have surrendered to yours and will submit to Goliath Scorpion rule.”
“Thank you” Madsen said
“Neg, thank you Star Colonel Patrice Madsen now I can die as a Clan warrior.” The older man said Madsen didn’t think he had it in him to smile but Rood looked pleased about what he’d accomplished here, he’d kept members of his Clan alive against all odds, and now he was looking forward to fighting for a Clan again.
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Good to see the Scorpions (and Spirits) surviving.
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Private Medical Ward
Risha City, Renown
Victoria Commonality, Capellan Confederation
1st October 3117
After being placed in a medically induced coma due to her injuries and evacuated to the Capellan Confederation system of Renown Colonel Emma McEvens had been treated by the best medical technicians and doctors the world could offer at great expense. In a private ward in the city of Risha she woke to see Major Mitch Gitelman her executive officer in the Fronc Household Guard Regiment “Mitch? Where am I? What happened? Where are my parents?” She asked not recognizing where she was.
“Duchess” he said using her position instead of her rank “You are at a medical facility on Renown in the Capellan Confederation. There was a bombing on Fronc.” He said leaving the details to the side for now.
“We’re in the Capellan Confederation?” She asked confirming what she’d heard “and my parents…” she said this time not asking a question.
“Yes, we have been provided sanctuary while you recovered from your injuries.”
“And Fronc?”
“When we left it was in a state of unrest.”
“We left the world when it was in trouble, you do know how that makes us look?”
“Yes, Duchess” he said “but you would not have recovered there and then we would have been left…” he said not finishing the sentence as they danced around the news that her parents were no longer alive.
“I understand your reasoning Major but now I’m awake, prepare the regiment, we’re going home and we’re going to sort the mess our nation has been left in. Then we’re going to put to rest those we have lost properly.”
“Yes, Colonel, I’ll inform the troops.” He said saluting her then smartly about facing and leaving. Colonel Emma McEvens remained in the bed alone thinking over everything she had just learned and thinking about what she needed to do to sort out what had happened.
Planetary Invasion
Gladius, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
13th October 3117
News had filtered through Gladius that the Jade Falcons and Hell’s Horses were on the move again, the Horses had attacked Edasich, Whittington and Nekkar while the Jade Falcons had targeted three systems of their own Trent, Canonie, and Gladius. The toughest nut of the three was Gladius defended by several regiments of ground forces and two WarShips which were assigned to protecting Skye’s shipyard.
In the three systems targeted by the Hell’s Horses although the Clan is able to dominate space with their WarShips the multiple dug in ground force regiments on each planet hold firm and grind down nine of the Horses Clusters forcing them into retreat when requests from the naval command to assist were rejected by the ground force Hell’s Horses commanders. All six regiments defending the three systems are heavily damaged by the fighting and would likely have been lost in their entirety by orbital bombardment as a result of the fighting Fury’s Fusiliers a small mercenary unit is wiped out.
The Jade Falcons have an easier run of it. On Trent the Ninth Lyran Regulars Regiment put up a fight initially but are rapidly broken into smaller units by the Jade Falcons and crushed piecemeal. Only a single combined arms regiment worth of troops are able to escape with hundreds of civilians. Canonie falls within three hours with none of the militia escaping.
Finally in the Gladius system the Jade Falcons come across their greatest challenge with Lyran WarShips and assault DropShips attacking them as soon as they enter the system. While the LCS Edinburgh, a Coventry-class Corvette is destroyed in the fighting the LCS Helmut Schroder, a Hyperion II-class Heavy Cruiser, and multiple squadrons of Talon-class Pocket WarShips rally to destroy the Jade Lion, a vessel of the same named class of Battle-cruiser, and the Hawk, a York-class Carrier, forcing the Jade Falcons into retreat. The two Clans find a rump of defended territory that is tougher than others to conqueror and may have to change their strategy.
Weapons Development
Twin Sons, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
23rd October 3117
For decades before even the Smoke Jaguars had come to Twin Sons the industrious people of the world had been innovators making the most out of their lack of compact fusion engines and of large manufacturing capacity. Instead of building larger more powerful BattleMechs with built in weapons they built Ultra-light BattleMechs which complemented their firepower with hand-held weaponry which was often short-lived on a battlefield but it gave them something extra.
With the Twin Sons now under the full control of the reborn Smoke Jaguars and with the Clan working with the District of Lesnovo the hand-held weapons had become less useful with few of the heavier BattleMechs needing the additional firepower and the firepower they were able to mount on the weapons not enough to complement the larger Mechs.
After years of development and using Clan grade technology developed by the Smoke Jaguar scientists and traded from the Sea Fox Clan the people of Twin Sons had built the first examples of the “Advanced Gun System.” Designed to primarily complement heavier Mechs firepower this new weapon system was aimed at fitting the heaviest weapons that were able to be carried by a Mech. Unlike standard BattleMech weapons a weapon mounted on the Advanced Gun System weighed half as much as a regular weapon which allowed the heaviest weapons to be carried by a Mech as external ordinance. The drawback to these systems were that only a single weapon could be carried in any Advanced Gun System, due to the increased size of the weapons they suffered from a firing penalty and any Mech carrying one of these weapons needed two functioning hand actuators.
During her mercenary unit’s contract with the Free Worlds League Tassa Kay was able to secure one of these Advanced Gun Systems for her Ryoken II BattleMech. While her customized seventy-five-ton BattleMech already carried significant firepower she added a Class-10 Autocannon with a single ton of ammunition to an Advanced Gun giving her a short lived but potent additional punch. This was first demonstrated on Westover during a raid against Clan Sea Fox holdings there during this raid Kay’s Jokers salvaged a Clan built Gauss Rifle which Kay planned on adapting to the weapon system giving the Ryoken II an addition sniper-type weapon to complement its already potent twin Extended Range Particle Cannons.
Trials of Possession
Sea Fox Occupation Zone
26th October 3117
Attempting to change the course of their conflict with the Clans and gain favour with the other Inner Sphere leaders ahead of the Star League Conference on Terra the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces, Mercenary forces and Star League Defence Force units go on the offensive against Clan Sea Fox targeting twelve systems of their occupation zone with Trials of Possession. The Lyran Archon orders all worlds targeted to be given the chance to fight a limited Clan styled Trial following Zellbrigen instead of initiating all-out war for the planets.
Of the twelve systems targeted by the Lyrans and their allies only five are won the others remain under Sea Fox rule. Of the worlds targeted only on Blackjack and Goat’s Path is Zellbrigen broken in both cases the worlds are targeted by mercenary commands exclusively. On Blackjack the First Obsidian Lancers break Zellbrigen when trying to counter the Sea Fox push, this results in the Clan pulling in additional troops and pushing the mercenaries off the world. On Goat’s Path it is the Sea Foxes themselves who break Zellbrigen during a melee between the defenders and Avanti’s Angels the Clan force overwhelms the mercenary command through superior firepower resulting in dozens of deaths in the mercenary command. Because the Clan force was the one that broke Zellbrigen the commander informs Colonel Marcus GioAvanti that he may salvage whatever he wishes from the planet as a result the Angels are able to rebuild two battalions of their unit before retreating.
Elsewhere the Sea Foxes abandon the systems of Newton Square, Barcelona and Bone Norman leaving the people on the worlds to their own devices. The only presence they continue to maintain is a space station at the Nadir Point of the Bone Norman system which is the Sea Foxes link to the periphery-based Ragnarok Union.
In the Isle of Skye Lyran and mercenary forces retreat from Edasich, Whittington and Nekkar, their units have been pounded on the planet for months by Clan Hell’s Horses and the Skye government could not continue to supply them instead they contract their front lines surrendering the three systems. Within weeks Clan Hell’s Horses realize what has happened and move in on all three systems the planetary militias remain on the battered worlds but are unable to resist the Horses for long and they become Clan holdings.
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New Tech from the AU found on this thread
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/advanced-gun-system/ (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/advanced-gun-system/)
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Another good update DC.
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When I planned out this update I didn't think about how much "Davion" it screams - so Davion Month 3117 is here ;D not even sure if it paints the family in a good light.
The "new" periphery nation is adapted from canon sources (I've moved its story to fit into this one)
Whitting Conference Centre, Unity Chambers
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
1st November 3117
The rebuilding of Unity City had been a priority for the reborn Star League Protectorate as much as building the Star League Defence Force had been. In the forty-nine years since the rebirth of the Star League the population in the city had boomed to several million with hundreds of buildings restored to full use, hospitals, schools and shopping complexes had all opened while the crown jewels of the city the Whitting Conference Centre, renamed for this Star League after the building on Tharkad where the first elections had been held. The facility had been fully restored to its Star League-era looks and capabilities, now from the Chambers the Star League Council could monitor anything in the star system and beyond using the dedicated HPG network which fed it.
Walking through the many corridors of the facility there were multiple external observation decks for the inhabitants and visitors to look over Unity City, First Prince Burton Davion remarked just how much had been done to the city since his last visit. Much like Royal Davion Palace on New Avalon the Whitting Conference Centre sat beside two rivers one which flowed either side of the complex. If it was anything like his home Burton guessed there would be a command facility buried under the surface buildings as well as multiple bunkers and escape corridors should there ever be an attack. “Like anyone could invade Terra” Burton asked himself it was like imagining New Avalon being held by an others hand, impossible to comprehend. The Wolves, Bears and soon most likely the Jade Falcons were all closing on Terra but they were held back by the massed army of the Star League Defence Force, Navy and the Protectorate Guard regiments, none of them had the available forces alone to break through to Terra.
“An impressive sight” Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion said coming out onto the balcony joining his son.
“Father, it is good to see you well, I hoped to see you and mother before I left.”
“You’ve been here for six days son, I worried that you were avoiding us?”
“Not at all father, affairs of the state, I am sure you understand having all of this to look after?” He said raising his arms to take in Unity City beyond.
“It is a job that keeps me busy” Victor admitted “but my family and home are in the Federated Suns, your mothers as well, we took the position here to safeguard what had been built since the Star League’s founding. It doesn’t replace our home, even if sometimes I have to make policies that are not popular in the Federated Suns.”
“No, your reputation has been harmed somewhat by what you have had to do.”
“I unfortunately knew it would” Victor said “Burton, the Star League needs the Protectorate to remain strong. If it doesn’t then it all falls.”
“Today my cousin was elected to the position of First Lord. She will undoubtably use the Star League’s Defence Force to strengthen her fight back against the Clans and weaken the defences of this Protectorate. Much of the factories held by the Star League will sell their weapons to the Lyran Commonwealth at cut down prices also bolstering the Lyran Commonwealth’s position. Much like the Magistracy has increased its power over the last three years.” It was widely known that the Magistracy had used Star League resources to complete their second shipyard and to build several squadrons of a new type of Pocket WarShip based on the Vengeance-class DropShip.
“Which is the way of this League. But with the resources that we have brought together we are all improved. Has the Federated Suns not seen several new bases built during the recent League’s time which has brought jobs for hundreds of citizens.”
“And increased their foothold.” Burton said looking over at his father “the Federated Suns should be for the citizens of the Federated Suns. Even if a former son of the realm is ruling an ally.”
“And your cousin is in charge of another state. Our family have the ability to bring the entire Inner Sphere closer together and in turn make our realms stronger, all three of them. We just need to keep working within the rules of this League.” Victor stressed Burton looked at his father surprised, it almost sounded like he wanted to bring back together the Federated Commonwealth with the Star League as its bridge.
“That dream Archon-Prince is long dead” Burton said using his father’s former rank Victor had once been the first and only Archon-Prince of the nation which was made up of the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth. “The Lyrans are far from us now and soon if the Clans have their way even you will be cut off from them, just as you are the Draconis Combine. Father, this League is failing around us, this Protectorate may be going from strength to strength but every year the Clans creep closer first it was the Wolves, now it’s the Bears who is next the Falcons or Horses?” He asked naming all the Clans moving towards the Protectorate he intentionally omitted the Sea Foxes because while they did have territory near the Protectorate, they were not expansionists and they traded technology with everyone around them.
“But together we can blunt their offensives. The Wolves are contained. The Bears have closed because we couldn’t become involved in the District of Dieron’s conflict with the Combine and the most recent Lyran offensive has been supported by the Star League Defence Force. Burton, the only reason you do not have more of our people in your territory is because of the unique agreement that the Federated Suns has with the Nova Cats and the distraction the Ravens have with the Draconis Combine.” Victor argued “this nation holds the Inner Sphere together AND accountable.”
“Accountable?” Burton asked innocently wondering where his father was going with this line of the argument.
“Orbital Bombardment and weapons of mass destruction.” Victor said bluntly “in the first two Succession Wars the Inner Sphere nations had WarShips a plenty and were happy to use them and destroy multiple worlds.” He said “the horrors of the first two Succession Wars still scarred many systems “the Clans have added a further element to the mix but the Star League’s presence has stopped the decent into complete chaos.” He truly believed that and saw his son was not convinced “tell me, truthfully that you haven’t looked at the power your fingertips wield and not been tempted.”
“You taught us well father ‘every action has an opposite and equal reaction, if you want to pick a fight expect a response.’” Burton said reciting his father’s words at the time his father had said that someone before him had said the same words but Burton had long ago forgotten the name of the other person. “I know what I can and cannot do. The Federated Suns has great strength, to escalate our battles beyond where they have currently reached would be to court complete destruction.”
“You know that because you have been taught to value what you have” Victor said grabbing his son by the shoulders “the other nation leaders perhaps do not. This Star League is keeping them in check.” He suggested he left out his other belief that the most recent experience of the wield District of Dieron had shown exactly how badly the Clans would react to an escalation of the violence.
“My decision stands father, I continue to support this Star League, but you know my reservations about it. Now perhaps we should put politics aside and see mother before I and Sterling have to leave for home.” He suggested Victor nodded and the two men headed back into the building. The cracks of the Star League Defence Force were showing but the threat of the Clans and the fear of what a new Succession War could bring was keeping them all in check.
House Arano Press Conference
Coromodir, Cordia City
Aurigan Collective, Periphery
9th November 3117
On the world of Coromodir VI in front of a massive Star League-era fortification which served as House Arano’s residence Lady Kamea Arano stood to address the gathered media. Lady Arano was in her late twenties with jet black hair. She wore a green dress with a short leather MechWarrior’s jacket over her shoulders. “I am Kamea of House Arano, Protector of Coromodir and the Sword of Restoration” on her head she wore the crown of the High Lady of the Aurigan Reaches a long-forgotten realm which was headed on Coromodir and a nation that had once been comparable to that of what the Fronc Reaches had become. “When I grew up here on Coromodir my father used to tell me ancient stories of the Star League, the first Star League, when the Aurigan Reaches stood with the other nations around it.” She said pausing a several camera flashes went off “it was a prosperous period when much of the facilities we hold dear today were built and out people reached for the stars around us.” She said raising her arms the massive facility behind her dominating the area. “I always dreamed of the prosperity of that era returning and our people moving forwards once more. The Fronc Reaches have treated Coromodir well but they have also taken a lot from our people and prospered on our riches.” She explained “now the Fronc Reaches is falling into Civil War and there are only a few chances of its recovery. I fully support the efforts of its recovery but I must protect the people I can. Today I am announcing the rebirth of the Aurigan nation as the Aurigan Collective the systems of Coromodir, Guldra, Tyrion, Itrom, Mangzhangdian, Smithon, Katinka, Artu, Gangtok, Sananda and Heliat are now under my protection as High Leader of the Aurigan Collective, we are separate from the Fronc Reaches and only want peace with our neighbours. I fully support the Fronc Reaches recovering from its current troubles but I must take this action to protect our people.”
The actions of Coromodir causes the Taurian Concordat to move within a week and take over the systems of Glizer, Qalzl, Aea and Regis Roost which were sandwiched between the Aurigan Collective and the Taurian Concordat.
With chaos still enveloping much of the Fronc Reaches there is no official word on the official reformation of the Aurigan Collective but actions speak louder than words as Colonel Emma McEvens lands on Detroit with her Household Guard and a mercenary regiment reinforcing positions there. She declares herself the new leader of the Fronc Reaches elsewhere fighting continues on other planets as the small battered nation continues to try and recover from the attack against its parliament.
Planetary Defence
Chesterton, Axton PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
19th November 3117
Despite the talk of peace on Terra the Inner Sphere nations were still in a constant state of small-scale conflict with each other and with their neighbours, it didn’t matter how far one was from the front lines a world could face conflict meaning the nation’s armed forces had to keep alert to conflict. Many people joined the armed forces not for the adventure but because it was solid employment and the status as a member of the nation’s defence force brought with it a status that could not be bought. In the Federated Suns this was even more true with members of the AFFS being looked up to like the Knights of old Terra and serving the nation being a cornerstone of citizenship within the Succession State. To serve the Federated Suns and House Davion meant someone would be made for life; if they survived their term of service.
For others however the service was thrust on them as a duty to the nation like Duchess Leah Davion she as a daughter of the First Prince was always destined to join the Federated Suns. She had chosen to follow the footsteps of her mother Sterling McKenna, a former Khan of Clan Snow Raven, and become an aerospace fighter pilot which had led her into the position she was in now, in her Cutlass OmniFighter defending a world of the Federated Suns.
Leah’s fighter along with five others and a Leopard-CV were outbound from the world of Chesterton intercepting and incoming Lung Wang-class DropShip which was heading towards the planet. “This is Captain Kelly Scroggins of the Sixth New Avalon Guards RCT” the lead fighter of the six which had been deployed transmitting “you are ordered to turn away from Chesterton and prepare to be boarded.” At the back of the flight Leah was sat in her Cutlass waiting for the next action.
After several minutes there was only silence from the incoming DropShip before the signal expanded as two fighters were deployed. “They aren’t responding meaning they are a threat. One through Four we’re on the fighters were going to make sure they can’t threaten the Arethuse. We won’t fire unless they do.” She said naming their Leopard CV. “Five and Six, force the DropShip to change course, if they fire you’ve got authorization to open fire.” She ordered Leah sat in her fighter six was fighter number Six in the unit and they’d been tasked with taking on a two-thousand-and-six-hundred-ton DropShip. “This isn’t an invasion force, it’s a raiding party or a merc unit trying their luck, they won’t want us to fight them any more than we do.”
“Speak for yourself” Leah said quietly, she was desperate to get some action, since joining the Sixth she’d went through dozens of drills but not seen any combat. The four fighters accelerated after the two enemy fighters which had split up and were trying to make the Federated Suns fighters change their course.
“Six, you’re with me” her Flight Leader Justin Charters said as the front Cutlass accelerated “stick close Diva, we’re going to see how they react to a flyby.” She hated the callsign her squadron mates had assigned her she’d gained it because she was apparently the complete opposite of a Diva and too quiet for her own good. She’d decided as soon as she joined the service she wouldn’t play on her heritage as a member of the ruling house, she accelerated her Cutlass to follow Charters aerospace fighter.
The two Cutlass fighters approached the Lung Wang which had remained radio silent and had refused to communicate. Onboard would be four MechWarriors and a crew that were intending on landing on the planet. The two aircraft approached the small aerodyne DropShip from the aft and flew past the DropShip quickly “cut the nose Diva, just like we practiced.” Charters ordered “cutting the nose” was an intercept designed to turn away a ship that didn’t want a fight. So far despite being chased by AFFS fighters the two aggressor fighters had not fired and Charters was betting on the DropShip being the same. Unfortunately, the manoeuvre would also expose them to fire from the DropShip at point blank range should the DropShip commander decide now was a good time to engage them.
The two Cutlass accelerated faster than the Lung Wang with one aerospace fighter diving past the nose of the DropShip going one way and then the other diving past the nose the other way. The Lung Wang didn’t fire instead it continued on its course. “He’s not taking the hint Magnet; they could have broken communications?” she communicated to her wingman turning her fighter in an arc.
“There are ways of showing that, no they are ignoring us, right fine they want to be difficult. A Big X off their nose, Diva, no closer than fifty metres you hear me?”
“I got you” she said the two fighters began to approach the DropShip from either side as they closed on their target both opened fire with their nose mounted Gauss Rifles the two hypersonic slugs flew past the Lung Wang’s nose missing the target completely in an atmosphere it would have created two trails of disturbed air in front of the ship creating a massive “X” in space the DropShip’s sensors would have done the same.
That got a reaction as the slugs disappeared into space the DropShip pulled up and turned away from the flight path it was on arcing back towards the jump point. The two fighters which had been dancing around space with the rest of the squadron also turned away and arced back to tracks that would allow them to re-join the DropShip near the jump point.
“All fighters, this is Scoggins, break it off we’ll have no fight today.” The squadron leader communicated “Five and Six, I don’t remember saying you were authorised to use warning shots, nice job.” Kelly Scoggins said as the squadron turned back towards their carrier “Six, let today be a lesson, remember you can stop an attack by persuading an enemy that it’ll cost them more than they are willing to pay.” She said Leah sat in the Cutlass watching the DropShip and fighters moving away and thought that it would be nice if every fight would be so simple of an operation, but she also knew that wouldn’t be the case, she still didn’t have a combat victory under her belt but it felt good to have done something about people who could have hurt their people.
City Tour
Marion, Minette PDZ
Crucis March, Federated Suns
24th November 3117
The world of Sherwood had gained its name from the forests of old England on Terra and its climate was extremely comfortable to humanity. It had been an easy world for colonists to decide to move to hailing from as far as New Avalon and Belladonna in the Federated Suns and beyond to Terra herself as humanity expanded into the stars. Marion, the city he now stood in had expanded greatly under Nova Cat rule located at the southernmost edge of the Watling Mountain Range it always had a spaceport but both the spaceport and the city were larger than he remembered. The Nova Cats had used Sherwood as a trade hub funnelling goods into Sherwood before shipping the out into the Federated Suns and onto Clan Sea Fox’s holdings. As a result, they had added at least two new runways and nearly half a dozen additional DropShip landing pads as well as massive fuel storage facilities. Jonas wasn’t sure how the Federated Suns would support such facilities now it was back in their hands. Similarly, the capital’s mass transit systems had completely been renovated by the Nova Cats the lower tech railway replaced by Star League-era standard electric trains and trams.
He had fought for this feeling for years, he had spent his families fortune trying to see today, but it had not been his hand instead it had been an action by the AFFS which had freed Sherwood from the grasp of Clan Nova Cat. Now former-Earl Jonas Tyler could see the fruits of his labour and that of his nations and he could walk down the street of Marion, the world’s capital and wear the crest of his family with pride.
It felt strange to be back on Sherwood the world felt different the transit systems were just one part. The additional civilians who inhabited the changed the feeling around the city from what Tyler understood most of the civilians were non-Nova Cat by birth having been moved here by the Clan to work the enlarged spaceport, storage facilities, mass transit systems and the BattleMech factory which was located on the world. The Nova Cats had turned Sherwood into a prize one that the Federated Suns had finally liberated. Strangely as he walked around Tyler noticed that there were murals which had been painted on the side of buildings many of the Similarly, size of a BattleMech most of them depicted Clan Nova Cat BattleMechs, armour, Battle Armour, soldiers and even the nova cat animal defending the people of the world. Tyler found it strange having never imagined that the people would be allowed to express themselves so publicly under Nova Cat rule. He wondered how much he had misjudged how this world was being treated for years.
As he walked through the streets, he came across a street market selling various goods as he walked along, he spotted Kimberly Mathijsen running one of the stalls, she was in her sixties now but still seemed vibrant with life as she traded her goods to the people passing by. The Mathijsen stall was well known for its exotic fruit juices and wines. “Mrs Mathijsen!” Tyler greeted her as he approached the stall, she looked shocked for several moments looking at him strangely “it’s me Jonas Tyler.”
“Welcome to my stall, sir… I mean sire” she stammered over the word almost like it was alien to her. “How can I help you?” She asked formally
“Mrs Mathijsen, don’t you remember me?”
“My name is Kimberly young man I have given up that name, life is simpler when we accept that.” She said “now how can I help you?” She said indicating to the goods.
“I’ll have this” he said picking up a 750ml bottle of the famous Sherwood’s Green Apple Juice.
“That will be four Kerensky’s” she said listing the price, Jonas had heard that the world was still dealing in Kerensky’s when he had landed, he’d been given some at the spaceport in exchange for an equal amount of D-Bills. At the price he’d paid elsewhere he’d have spent two or three times that in D-Bills. “And watch your contractions” the old woman said smiling as she accepted his coins.
Jonas walked away feeling strange he’d never known Mrs Mathijsen very well only when his father took him through the market and bought him some juice, but he found it strange she’d adapted so readily to the Nova Cat way of things abandoning her family name. Family was important, it was a connection to your past and to your children it seemed unthinkable to Jonas whose family name was all that was important. Like them still holding onto the Clan currency it seemed his world would have a long road to recovery from what the Nova Cats had caused here. He walked down the street and sipped the cold still apple juice, even with all the things that had changed the juice had not the cold sweet taste was exactly as he remembered.
Continuing down the street he stopped as he saw another drawing on the world, he guessed it was new by what was depicted. Unlike the other mural paintings which showed the Nova Cats in various forms defending the people of Sherwood, this one had far darker undertones and had been done quickly, possibly because the person painting it had been worried about being seen, the picture showed a Federated Suns flagpole which had been snapped in half the flag pointing into the ground being torn to pieces by a nova cat animal. “What have they done to my world?” Jonas wondered to himself looking at the picture transfixed with the image, the artist had skills but it also made Jonas wonder if this was the act of one person or of many. He vowed to himself as he continued to drink the apple juice that he would return Sherwood to the correct path.
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Oh, those Davies. 8)
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Oh, those Davies. 8)
All good sons (or daughters)of the sun's.
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Oh, those Davies. 8)
All good sons (or daughters)of the sun's.
I try to avoid months where one faction gets tons of news, it's part of the planning process for every year... :-[ this one slipped through lol normal service next update
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Time to end 3117 - its taken a little longer than I expected :-\ but we're here with some changes for what's to come in the future. The intent of this update is to show the continued adaption of canon to this AU, every new product I buy gives me an idea of how to make this AU better (at least I hope I make it better - but that's up to you lot!)
Weapons Test
Near Riken Minor, Rigil Kentarus
Star League Protectorate
2nd December 3117
From the surface of Riken Minor, a moon around Rigil Kentarus, six aerospace fighters launched in close formation. The fighters were too close together to be manned their manoeuvres too precise the six thirty-five-ton aerospace fighters rose quickly from the surface of the moon heading for a rendezvous with an orbiting DropShip. The spheroid thirty-six thousand tonne Tiamat Pocket WarShip orbited the moon silently the landing bay doors opening allowing the drones to land completely remotely. Like the fighters the Tiamat was controlled by a drone brain and maintained orbit above the moon standing guard and keeping unwanted traffic out of the area.
Near to the Tiamat’s orbit two Tug DropShips towed a damaged Behemoth-class DropShip through space in another orbit the two Tugs released the DropShip and turned away raising themselves into higher orbit allowing derelict ship to spin free. Moments later several naval lasers lanced out of the moon and cut straight through the Behemoth slicing it in half. In a follow up attack several capital missiles slammed into the two pieces of DropShip obliterating the remains of the wreck. This test was one of many which had taken place recently but it was by far the most public one the destruction of a DropShip the size of the Behemoth was impossible to hide from public eyes instead the test was a demonstration that Centaur Castle was now operational. It was also a demonstration that the experimental Casper II Drone Fleet was also now in its test phase, the Casper II system was one intended on supporting the Casper Drone Fleet and would be built up using drone DropShips and Aerospace Fighters. The Centaur Castle Brian Facility was a stationary defensive position and with the drones which would be deployed from it they could influence the entire system.
Two weeks later on the surface of Rigil Kentarus in the capital city of Minnesota two men met in a coffee shop near the spaceport as the shop’s tri-vid screens continued to play the Star League Defence Forces’ successful test of “Centaur Castle’s weapons.” As the two men drank their coffee the older of the two looked up at the screens.
“They’ve changed the game you know?” Christopher Grant said looking over at the other man in the last few years he had undergone significant cosmetic surgery so being out here in the open wouldn’t set off too many alarm bells. There were still arrest warrants out in his name in the Federated Suns for the assassination of Tancred Sandoval. “Soon everyone will need their own personal WarShip to compete and BattleMechs will be a thing of the past.”
“I disagree, a WarShip cannot take ground and hold it, they can only obliterate it. They also cannot take out selective targets, if you want to take out one person use a Mech or a knife instead of capital weaponry, and we’ve shown several times that a BattleMech team can do a job and disappear.” The younger man Dominic Nostra said in response he had spent five years learning from the current Bounty Hunter and had come a long way from the Rim Collection disgraced Colonel that Christopher had recruited.
“That’ll be your fight to fight” the Bounty Hunter said looking over at the other man who looked surprised Christopher Grant was only forty-six years old, he was in his prime and could live fifty-or-sixty years. “I’ve lost the appetite for it.” He said honestly “the blood and fighting doesn’t interest me anymore, I gave many years to the Federated Suns and I’ve given many years to this, I’ve laid aside plenty its time I enjoyed it.” He said Dominic Nostra had been trained in the Rim Collection, he had raised in rank to that of Colonel he wasn’t that much younger than Grant but he’d also only been working for himself for three years and his accounts in the Free Worlds League were frozen. “I have spoken to the others before speaking to you” Grant continued surprising Nostra again “tradition states that when one Bounty Hunter retires the team do too. Fortunately for you most of them have chosen to remain as part of the command, it seems I've retired a little quicker than most were expecting and they all want to earn a little more coin before they retire.”
“That’s fortunate” Nostra admitted, the longest serving member of the unit a VTOL pilot named Kafka had served with two Bounty Hunters already and must have amassed plenty C-Bills but she appeared to be quite happy to remain within the command.
“Yes, you can continue on as if nothing has changed.” Grant said “and I will quietly disappear.”
“Good luck, enjoy your retirement.” Nostra said raising his coffee glass as the video screen showed the DropShip being obliterated again, it was a changing Inner Sphere but he planned on making the job pay.
Planetary Invasion, DCMS Staging Area
Awano, Awano Prefecture
District of Philadelphia, Draconis Combine
14th December 3117
In space three Draconis Combine WarShips were heavily engaged with four Rasalhague Dominion WarShips which had arrived escorting more than a Galaxy of troops which had arrived to strike at the Draconis Combine staging area on Awano.
Dropping through the atmosphere in his Executioner OmniMech Star Commander Coyle Bekker dropped down towards the Draconis Combine base below. The ninety-five-ton OmniMech was configured in its alternate K configuration mounting a huge class-40 Hyper Assault Gauss and three six-pack short range missile launchers. The jump jets mounted on the OmniMech blazed plasma fire slowing the OmniMech’s fall towards the ground Coyle Bekker was not prepared to simply fall instead he targeted an enemy Catapult. Firing the HAG-40 down towards the sixty-five-ton BattleMech, gauss slugs tore into the upper hull of the Catapult the supersonic slugs pitting the other Mech’s armour as the Executioner closed on it. The Catapult pilot returned fire with its two long range missile launchers filling the air with thirty missiles several slammed into the falling Executioner causing damage to its legs the Executioner was knocked off course slightly.
At the controls of the Executioner Coyle Bekker fought the OmniMech keeping it on course he aimed his HAG-40 again and pulled the trigger sending another volley of gauss slugs down towards the Catapult. Because of the falling range between the two Mechs the slugs were closer packed and flew in on the Catapult causing heavier damage, as the Executioner came in for a landing the Catapult pilot fought to keep control over their BattleMech. Coyle Bekker brought his OmniMech up as the Catapult pilot attempted to counter the Executioner by engaging the Mech with its four Medium Lasers, three of which burned into the armour of the assault OmniMech. Coyle smiled baring his teeth and opened fire with eighteen short range missiles showering the other BattleMech in fire, unlike the gauss slugs which did their damage with kinetic energy instead of explosive warheads the short-range missiles were filled with an explosive payload. The Catapult staggered under the fire as its armour was blown open. One of the two Long Range Missile racks exploded under the fire while the ammunition stored inside its torso was cocked off and exploded after being hit by a missile. CASE panels built into the BattleMech attempted to save the BattleMech but Coyle had already decided that would not be happening and he added another volley of missiles to the already crippled BattleMech, the attack shattered any hope the MechWarrior may have had of surviving the encounter and they punched out as the Catapult began to stumble and fall.
All around Coyle Bekker BattleMechs, Battle Armour and fighters were engaging each other in battles, Clan tradition stated a Clan warrior did not get involved in the battles of other warriors instead allowing them to engage in honour duels with their enemies. But the Draconis Combine troops were not honourable according to the Rasalhague Dominion’s leaders, recently it had been revealed that it was the Draconis Combine and not the Rasalhague Dominion which had detonated a nuclear device on Rasalhague Dominion soil. Instead of searching for another opponent Coyle twisted the Executioner’s torso to the right and opened fire with the OmniMech’s short range missile racks, eighteen missiles burst out of their launchers and flew rapidly into the back of a forty-five-ton Wolftrap. At close range the missiles didn’t take long to reach the enemy Mech and the attack was devastating, as the BattleMech’s rear armour was far lighter than the front armour the damage that was done to the Wolftrap was devastating. Explosions tore open the Mech’s rear armour the ammunition stored in the Mech’s torso was hit by several missiles and caused a fireball to consume the Wolftrap tearing it to pieces.
Time was not to be wasted as the Rasalhague Dominion troops continued to assault the Draconis Combine forces at the centre of the assault force Coyle Bekker continued his own personal crusade against the Rasalhague Dominion. Twisting the Executioner to the right he saw a pair of forty-ton Shillelagh Missile Tank both tanks engaged his assault Mech with their Multi-Missile Launchers thirty missiles flew in on the charging Rasalhague Dominion Mech. Bekker ducked his Mech to the right attempting to avoid some of the missiles even as he targeted the first Mech with the HAG. The missiles exploded all over the hull of the Executioner causing explosions but none punctured its armoured frame several more exploded all around the OmniMech throwing sand and shrapnel into the air, Bekker charged forwards through the fire ignoring the damage as the HAG continued to fire. The Executioner’s Gauss Rifle tore down the side of the first Shillelah the hypersonic slugs flew into the side of the tracked vehicle penetrating the armour in several places causing internal damage. The second Shillelagh opened fire a second time showering the Executioner with another volley of missiles at closer range the Shillelah switched to using short range missiles and they were more accurate. Several slammed into the weaker armour on the OmniMech’s back but they failed to penetrate instead they threw Bekker around his cockpit and unfortunately for him angered the Ghost Bear Warrior. Turning on the spot the Executioner’s missile racks answered the Shillelah’s fire with its own missiles pumping eighteen short range missiles into his target. Several of the missiles slammed into the same spot weakening the armour enough to expose its ammunition bay Bekker screamed angrily as he marched towards the enemy vehicle putting another eighteen missiles into the target. It was overkill but he wanted the missile tank dead his missiles slammed into the smaller vehicle several hitting the exposed ammunition storage. The resulting explosion which consumed the vehicle resembled a small supernova as a mixture of long- and short-range missiles and machine gun ammunition all cooked over obliterating the vehicle in one massive explosion followed by a series of secondary explosions. Pieces of the vehicle were thrown across the battlefield for hundreds of metres.
Bekker stood there for several moments watching the Shillelah burn when a particle cannon blast exploded over Executioner’s chest. Turning the OmniMech Coyle Bekker saw his newest challenger an Awesome BattleMech armed with three Heavy Particle Projection Cannons. “Finally, a worthy challenger.” Accelerating his ninety-five-ton OmniMech to the right Bekker targeted the incoming Awesome with his HAG sand blasting armour from the eighty-ton red painted Draconis Combine BattleMech as dozens of supersonic slugs slammed into the enemy Mech.
The Awesome tracked the running the Executioner as Bekker’s Mech ran to its right-hand side, three more heavy particle cannon shots momentarily linked the two Mechs as the Awesome opened fire again. The electrical charged bolts burned over the Executioners armour and threw off the Mech’s step Bekker fought to keep the OmniMech standing as it continued to run, in retaliation he twisted the left arm towards his target and opened fire with all three short range missile launchers.
Explosions rocked the Awesome shattering its armour but the assault BattleMech was ready for an attack and stood up to the beating. Bekker twisted his Mech’s torso and opened fire with the HAG peppering more armour off the Awesome but it immediately retaliated with three more particle cannon blasts. Only two of the cannons found their target while the other burned across the ground throwing up sand, the two that struck the Executioner caused more heavy armour damage with the Executioner damaged in the previous battles the two particle cannon shots severely damaged the right leg actuator and locked the left arm in its extended position.
Unable to aim the arm’s short-range missiles Bekker kept the Mech standing and fired them blindly before turning the torso and blasting the HAG at the target. The majority of the short-range missiles went wild missing their target while eight of the missiles found their target damaging one of the Awesome’s particle cannons, an internal explosion inside the BattleMech completely ruined the weapon. The HAG’s follow up attack shattered yet more armour but it did not have the concentrated killer blow that some of the heavier Clan weapons had and the Awesome remained standing. With its two remaining heavy particle cannons the Awesome opened fire again this time the man-made lightning bolts shattered what remained of the left arm one of the bolts passing clearly through the Executioner’s superstructure blowing the arm away from the Mech’s body sending shrapnel everywhere. Bekker gritted his teeth levelling his only weapon, the class-forty Hyper Assault Gauss rifle, at his target his Mech was now at a distinct disadvantage. While the class-forty was a powerful weapon unlike the two remaining heavy particle cannons on the Awesome he lacked the killer punch.
The supersonic slugs tore into the Awesome shaving armour off the chassis but only causing significant damage in a couple of places Coyle Bekker could see a shattered heat sink was leaking its coolant fluid down the front of the BattleMech as he prepared for the incoming barrage. The assault he expected did not come instead lasers, missiles and autocannons from all sides came in on the Awesome causing heavy damage to the Mech. A heavy assault autocannon penetrated the BattleMech’s armour and blew through the engine shielding causing the BattleMech to be consumed by the weapons fired at it.
Coyle Bekker was about to call out the other Ghost Bear warriors for attacking his target but he remembered his assault on the Wolftrap and the orders from the Rasalhague Dominion leadership to give the Draconis Combine warriors no honour or mercy, they were to be wiped out. In all four BattleMech Regiments, an entire Land-Air-Mech Regiment and several support regiments were wiped out by the Rasalhague Dominion assault. In space a dozen assault DropShips and four Draconis Combine WarShips were destroyed as were three Rasalhague Dominion vessels with a fourth vessel the mighty Leviathan 2-class Battleship Rudigen crippled as the Rasalhague Dominion seized the important staging world.
In the coming days two more systems fall to the Rasalhague Dominion as the Clan/Inner Sphere nation makes it clear to everyone via a broadband HPG message that they know the Draconis Combine were responsible for the nuclear attack against their nation and the Dieron War. The Rasalhague Dominion made it absolutely clear that the Draconis Combine would never see a lasting peace with them.
Planetary Landing
Penny Marshal Landing Field
Coromodir V, Aurigan Collective
24th December 3117
The Leopard-class DropShip came to a halt at the end of the landing zone and two Pacifier SecurityMechs moved towards it along with a Routemaster Shuttlebus coming to a stop several dozen metres away from the DropShip. After several minutes several figures left the DropShip and headed over to the shuttlebus which moved across towards the tower, the hovercraft effortlessly moving over the ferrocrete maintaining pace with two SecurityMechs. When it arrived three figures left the shuttlebus and entered the facility.
Soon afterwards the three figures entered the conference room escorted by guards “Colonel… I mean Prince Marshal Emma McEvens of the Fronc Reaches.” The guard announced
“Welcome to Coromodir” High Lady Kamea Arano said she had chosen to meet her guest here instead of taking them to the palace and allowing their nearest neighbour to see what was going on within their capital.
“Thank you, Lady Arano, I am here to inform you that we have put down the rebellion that the Fronc Reaches has endured. I have taken the mantle of leadership until a new government is elected by all worlds and that Coromodir is welcome to return and retake its place.”
“As you have taken the role of Prince Marshal, I too have taken another role. I am now the High Lady of the Aurigan Collective the worlds around us have turned to Coromodir in their time of need, we are helping them. You cannot force this issue Prince Marshal” she said respecting McEvens position. “You need to draw your nation back together, beginning a war is not the way.”
“I am drawing my nation together. I am opening up a ballot for a new government and Prince Marshal.”
“And investigating what happened at the Tower of Fronc?” Kamea Arano asked reminding the other woman of her obligation to find out what happened to the previous government. Emma McEvens in her mid-fifties was twenty years Kamea Arano’s senior but given the Fronc Reaches perilous position at present she was finding it hard to force anyone to do anything. While widespread fighting had ended in the Fronc Reaches there was still unrest in several places.
“Yes, of course” McEvens agreed “and we would do better if you were with us.”
“We’re with you, Prince Marshal, we’re certainly not against you. But we will not be re-joining Fronc in an alliance, not now.” Kamea Arano replied “the three regiments that have joined with Coromodir will remain under my command…”
“They are Fronc units, their equipment belongs to the Colonial Marshals and to Fronc!” McEvens snapped angrily.
“The decision is made; you have the forces to oppose us if you really want to. But I would suggest you do not, I have several negotiators on their way to Herotitus and Galatea Station we will be hiring several mercenary units to bolster our numbers and protect our worlds from pirate forces.” Arano warned her.
“I understand” McEvens replied
“We will however extend all of the support we can to your nation and provide all the intelligence we can to help you find out what happened to the Tower of Fronc and our people.”
“I agreed” McEvens said through gritted teeth both of the women knew that there could be serious trouble between their two small nations but for now a peace would exist and each of them would be able to grow as they needed.
Clan Parades
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Occupied Space
23rd December 3117
Today was a special day for Tukayyid the Clans were meeting on the world with dozens of additional Clan warriors on the planet as was tradition the arrival of each Clan began with a parade through the central streets of the capital Andrey with approximately a trinary of troops from each Clan making the journey to the Clan Hall. On the arrival of Clan Lynx, the parade was extra special and large with dozens of BattleMechs, vehicles and battle armour moving through the street as Clan Lynx brought its entire complement of Bloodnamed warriors to the world.
At the Council of the Clans each of the Khans and saKhans arrived to meet and discuss the issues facing their Clans often this involved military operations, new technology developments and trade. But this particular meeting was a special one and would address a problem that was developing within all the Clans.
“So, it is agreed” Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward replied “today, all of you recognize that as a society our Clans must embrace the cultures that make up our Clans. We have over time accepted warriors from other Clans through the Harvest Trials these warriors deserve the right to become Bloodnamed warriors. We also have encountered cultures in the Inner Sphere which have influenced us and warriors who have joined our ranks as Freeborns we have to give them a chance to become one with the Clans.” She said it had taken some time for the Jade Falcons and Lynx to agree to the change but eventually all of the Clans had agreed to the change in Clan policy, some of them would embrace the change whole heartedly others it would take more time. “When Clans fall or contact is lost with them some of their Bloodnamed warriors are invariably left without contact with the Bloodhouse of their birth and training.”
“This Council has taken the first step to mend the damage done to our people by the loss of contact with the Homeworlds and by the fall of several Clans since we came to the Inner Sphere.” She said several Clans had ceased to exist through actions in the Homeworlds and through failed attacks against the Inner Sphere including Clans Ice Hellion, Blood Spirit, Goliath Scorpion and the three Serpent Clans Cloud Cobra, Star Adder and Steel Viper. “To allow the warriors who fight valiantly for our Clans the honour of fighting for a Bloodname and joining the ranks of the Bloodnamed with the Act of Severance.” Sandra Ward said of the two edicts decided by this Clan Council this had been the easiest to pass all of the Clans had members of fallen Clans in their ranks many of them wanting to become part of the ranks of the Bloodnamed. The Act of Severance allowed Trueborn warriors of fallen Bloodhouses to fight Trials and essentially re-found their Bloodhouses, starting them again from the beginning. “The founders of these Bloodhouses will afford their house with prestige based on the warrior’s performance in a Trial with a single victory there will be five slots awarded to that house, two will afford ten and three victories will bring fifteen slots and great prestige to the reformed house. Once a Bloodhouse has been reformed any serving Trueborn member of the legacy house will be allowed to fight for one of these slots.” She said explaining all that had been agreed at the Clan Council, given that any surviving warrior would then be able to fight for the Bloodhouse there would be an amount of pressure on the competing warrior. “These warriors will bring honour to their names and add to our Clans.”
“Secondly as decreed by this council freeborns who have been accepted as warriors into our Clans will be allowed to attempt to found new Bloodhouses in a Trial of Founding.” This had been harder to pass but as Clans Wolf, Ghost Bear and Snow Raven already founded new Bloodhouses through their own actions the measure had passed. “These freeborns will be allowed to fight Trials and found new houses which will bring new Bloodnamed warriors into our society. Our Clans will accept these new Bloodhouses and honour them with the prestige they deserve based on the performance of the founding member of the house, like the Edict of Severance this will be based on victories in Trials one will equal three, two victories will earn six positions while three will earn nine. Unlike the reformed Trueborn houses these will be new to our Clans and they will have to wait until sibkos produce new warriors to fill their ranks and gain further prestige.” The final part had been added on the insistence of Clans Wolf, Jade Falcon, Lynx and Hell’s Horses who did not want a flood of freeborn warriors to join the Bloodnamed ranks “diluting them.”
“Finally,” Sandra Ward said seeing that the assembled Khans were bored having already discussed the details of this agreement for two days, she had stressed it was important as the details would be broadcast throughout the Inner Sphere and Periphery to all clan citizens and to the Succession States showing the changes the Clans were making. “The Clan Bloodhouses which have unilaterally been founded by the Clans will be fully recognized as houses in their own right including Kell, Magnesson, Mansdotter and Avellar. All warriors who have already won a Bloodname will be allowed to keep it and retain the honour they have already won, for these houses to expand Trueborns already born within that house will have to fight a Trial of Founding of their own to expand those houses.” It was one stipulation nearly demanded by the Council that the four Bloodhouses while already established within their Clans of origin would not be allowed to simply expand without any sort of control.
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Four days of later on Tukayyid Clan Lynx gathered three kilometres south of the city of Tost. This had been chosen as Clan Lynx had been founded from Clan Nova Cat and during the Battle of Tukayyid Clan Nova Cat had fought the ComGuards for control over the city of Tost with many Nova Cats dying in the attempt. In this particular crater an entire binary of Nova Cats had been surrounded and fought for their lives against a numerically superior ComGuard force with warriors of the Star not only surviving the assault but breaking out and returning to Clan lines. There was Clan blood on this soil already as well as a Clan victory today a freeborn warrior Star Commander Alwyn of Clan Lynx had the honour of fighting for his name’s future. Standing in the middle of the crater Alwyn’s Dragon Cat OmniMech stood proudly waiting for the trial to begin, the OmniMech was like its sister design the Nova Cat an unpopular one within Clan Lynx due to the reminder that it came from Clan Nova Cat, like the Clan itself.
At three points around the crater stood a Lynx BattleMech ready to meet the Dragon Cat’s challenge. As per the dueling rules of Zellbrigen the Mechs would engage the enemy in sequence not engaging the Dragon Cat until they themselves were engaged, the MechWarriors were allowed to move their Mech but only within a small part of their defined areas and not past any of the other trial Mechs as that could lead to Zellbrigen being “accidentally” violated.
“Star Commander Alwyn, your Trial of Founding begins when you are ready.” Loremaster of Clan Lynx Star Admiral Chelsea Drummond said around the perimeter of the crater stood every Bloodnamed warrior of the Clan ready to witness the victory or failure of one of their own warriors.
“Aff” Alwyn replied gruffly the seventy-ton Dragon Cat configured in its Alternate I configuration suddenly spun to the right-hand side the Mech’s legs moving as the torso also twisted suddenly the Mech’s left arm mounted triple Extended Range Large Lasers and its left arm class-10 autocannon exploded into life targeting the heaviest of the three Mech’s arrayed against him a seventy-five-ton Black Python.
The Clans had been allowed to determine how the Trials were fought by themselves. As was Clan Lynx Trial tradition it had been decided that these Trials would be fought against three very different BattleMechs one of the class of Mech piloted by the challenger warrior, one of the weight class below and one of the smallest class. The suggestion being that the MechWarrior would target the lightest first giving them a greater chance of winning the Trial quickly and earning their position, the MechWarrior piloting the lightest Mech would also be the most elite and most difficult to defeat.
Alwyn had defied the suspicion of targeting the lightest Mech and caught the Black Python pilot completely unaware and while the Mech was moving it was moving quite slowly. All three large lasers connected with the right arm on the seventy-five-ton BattleMech vaporising the armour there blowing through the internal structure and severely damaging the arm to the point that it would be useless in this fight. The autocannon thundered over the torso of the BattleMech pitting its armour as explosive slugs tore and rutted the armour mounted there. The Black Python was far from out of the battle while the damaged arm was useless and the medium pulse lasers mounted there were out of the battle the heavy BattleMech was a duelling Mech with a punishing array of pulse lasers. These lasers spat out bolts of energy at the running Dragon Cat large and medium pulses of energy burning the armour of the slightly smaller OmniMech damaging the left leg, arm and torso. Alwyn ignored the damage; the Dragon Cat had been designed by the Nova Cats to take damage and dish it out running at the Black Python Alwyn triggered the autocannon and two of the large lasers again this time trying to manage the heat which the OmniMech produced as the cockpit’s temperature continued to raise.
Using the integrated targeting computer buried deeply in the Dragon Cat’s torso the autocannon shots and large lasers were all targeted on a single location on the Black Python, the right leg, the lasers impacted first burning away armour and exposing the internal structure then the ultra-autocannon shots followed pounding though the remains of the armour and hammering the structure. A second round of heavy weapons fire was too much fighting for the Black Python’s pilot and he lost his balance the heavy BattleMech missing its step and crumpling over the damaged right leg mid-run. The heavy Mech crashed into the ground with an audible bang while heavily damaged the Mech was not out of the right so Alwyn stocked up to the downed BattleMech and aimed his lasers at the cockpit ready to fire if the pilot did not shut down his weapons. BattleMech combat could be a brutal thing it could last hours as MechWarriors played games of cat-and-mouse or like this in the open it could simply brutal and be over in minutes. The Black Python MechWarrior shut down his weapons systems surrendering the fight confirming Alwyn’s position as a Bloodhouse Founder.
Alwyn Stekhnovskii turned away from the defeated Black Python, he had been born in the Draconis Combine outback on the world of Salford. He had missed the battle for his planet and been allowed to compete to become a Freeborn warrior following the founding of Clan Lynx from Clan Nova Cat’s invading forces. As he turned the Dragon Cat took a gauss rifle slug in the gut as the second enemy a Stormcrow engaged him, as Alwyn had started the Trial the next opponent was free to engage when they were ready, OmniMechs were the pinnacle of Clan technology and sometimes described as being extensions of the human body with the accuracy of their movements. The Dragon Cat was a vaguely humanoid design like its sister design, the Nova Cat, it featured back-canted legs giving it a strange appearance. The gut shot had forced the Mech to lean forwards but it wasn’t out of the fight instead Alwyn brought the arm mounted autocannon up to fire and sprayed a pair of volleys over the enemy Mech. The shots exploded over the Stormcrow’s chest damaging the armour mounted there the Stormcrow pilot was braced for the attack the fifty-five-ton OmniMech’s legs in a wide stance helping absorb the impact, the pilot turned towards the Dragon Cat and fired four Improved Heavy Medium Lasers. The oversized and power opal coloured energy beams lashed out at the Dragon Cat three of them burning sizable holes in the OmniMech’s armour while the fourth missed wide.
In the cockpit Alwyn Stekhnovskii grunted in pain, one of the beams had impacted just below his OmniMech’s cockpit throwing him around and causing his head to be cracked against one of the consoles. The neuralhelmet he wore had protected him from major injury but he still had felt the impact. Twisting the Dragon Cat’s controls, he levelled the autocannon back at the lighter Mech and fired by now the Stormcrow was moving at speed running around the crater attempting to make the shot more difficult but because of the size of the crater there was little chance of a complete miss. Only about half of the autocannon rounds connected with the Stormcrow but they were enough to damage the left leg of the running Mech. The Stormcrow retaliated twisting its Mech and firing its gauss rifle again fortunately for Alwyn’s Dragon Cat the supersonic slug flew high past the seventy-ton OmniMech and imbedded itself deeply in the crater wall shattering the rock face.
Taking advantage of the Stormcrow’s miss Alwyn opened fire with all three large lasers blasting away at the Stormcrow’s armour with two of the lasers as they bored deeply through the right arm and torso. The laser blast which cut across the arm triggered a secondary explosion as it hit one of the lasers mounted there the internal explosion caused a second which blew the entire arm to pieces causing it to fall limp at the side of the Mech only attached by shredded myomer bundles. Robbed of the majority of its firepower the Stormcrow opened fire with its gauss rifle in response this time striking the Dragon Cat tearing open a section of armour. It was a slugging match, there was no room for errors or cover to help either Mech cool down instead Alwyn planted his overheating Mech’s legs and opened fire with the autocannon again this time striking the already damaged left leg and left arm on the Stormcrow disabling the gauss rifle there, with no weapons the Stormcrow shut down his Mech’s systems unwilling to engage in physical combat.
“Two down!” Alwyn shouted triumphantly his victory was short lived however as the Dragon Cat was slammed by twenty long range missiles which coated the upper surface of the OmniMech even as Alwyn sighted the Cougar OmniMech which was engaging him. Even before he could fire the thirty-five-ton OmniMech was engaging him with its secondary weapons the extremely accurate paired large pulse lasers both had been targeted on the already damaged left torso consecutive blue/green pulses of high-powered energy slammed into the Dragon Cat destroying the last armour there. In the cockpit of the OmniMech the temperature shot up as the extra-light fusion engine its heart was damaged.
Barely able to control the heat up before Alwyn had no choice but to fire only a single large laser with the autocannon suddenly his Mech became the hunted as the Cougar maneuverer to fire its pulse lasers keeping up a near constant barrage as the missiles reloaded. The lighter OmniMech could move as fast as the Dragon Cat and was not damaged while Alwyn’s Mech was damaged, struggling with heat build up and running low on autocannon ammunition. Instead of fighting until the destruction of his OmniMech and most likely his death Alwyn signalled his intention to surrender shutting down the targeting system another volley of long-range missiles slammed into the Dragon Cat making Alwyn worry he had left himself defenceless but then realized the enemy pilot had fired them before he had begun to power down, a perfectly reasonable action given the considerable firepower the Dragon Cat still wielded even in its damaged state. He was victorious and had secured six places within his Bloodhouse for future generations born with his DNA, a century from now Stekhnovskii would be a name which could be as known as that of Kerensky, Rosse or Pryde. After today Alwyn’s DNA would be added to the genetic breeding program of Clan Lynx creating the next generation of his Clan’s warriors.
“Arise, Star Commander Alwyn Stekhnovskii, Founder of the Stekhnovskii Bloodhouse” Loremaster Chelsea Drummond said over the radio frequencies. “Clan Lynx, honour him” she said suddenly through the radio every linked in Lynx warrior said in unison “Seyla!” While he had been born a freeborn Alwyn Stekhnovskii was now among the elite of the Clans, none of them would look down on his heritage again he had proven himself to his adopted Clan.
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Nice update DC.
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Nice update DC.
Thank you
Jumping into 3118 - starting with a big part from James Tanaga which sees a nation and a Clan continue their evolution together (I'll have fun with that later >:D), another part later on in this update is heavily influence by the opening fiction of 3118. Hope you all enjoy and my thanks too James Tanaga - additions like this are why this AU has kept going as long as it has the support I've had is awesome and anyone ever has an idea feel free to mention it. There's another impressive fan created project which has previously been referenced and will be again later in this AU (more to come soon)
3118
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Fire Mandrill Border Incursion
Kaumberg Theatre, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
1st January 3118
At the stroke of midnight to inaugurate the New Year, a short HPG signal containing only one word, one name, was sent throughout the Rim Collection and into neighbouring nations. “Natasha.” To some it was received with confusion to others it was a rallying cry. Upon receiving the signal, the Fire Mandrills and Rim Collection military and security forces struck numerous systems along the Collection-Lyran border acting out plans that had been made months in advance. Their immediate task was twofold: capture all systems within two jumps of the Collection’s vitally important Viborg Fleetyards; And to destroy any and all Fesnyng units along their border with the Lyran Commonwealth, while showcasing six new units; First, Second, Third, Fourth Rim Hussars, Fourth Rim Lancers, and Eighty-Fourth Assault Clusters.
The focal point of the attack was the ten Lyran systems within two jumps of Viborg. Heavily supported by national militia forces and using the element of surprise to great effect, the Mandrills take all but two target worlds with seventy-two hours, largely meeting only token resistance from shocked or lacklustre militia forces.
On Halifax, the Lyran’s Second Fesnyng and Halifax Militia are caught flatfooted due to the New Year’s celebrations and most personnel are at home or not near to the main base, the Rim Collection border had been quiet recently. Today Halifax was anything as quiet as the Thirty-first Rim Lancers destroys the largely piecemeal forces. For the remainder of the month, those members that had escaped the destruction of the base are methodically hunted down by the Thirty-first Rim Lancers assisting Rim Militia forces and the Mandrill Watch. Those forces that surrender are briefly held for questioning before being released while all resistance is put down harshly.
Home to the largest militia concentration on the Lyran border, the Rim Collection deployed four clusters to Florida as it anticipated heavy resistance. A night-time orbital drop by the power armour assets of the Fourth Rim Guards Cluster effectively captured the bulk of the Florida Militia that were in Barracks. Unfortunately, large amounts of militia and Lyran national forces on leave on the planet melted into the local population and quickly allowed a guerrilla force to grow. The primary guerrilla threat would not be put down until the end of the month and finally cemented the Collection’s firm control over the planet but caused the deaths of nearly a thousand civilians. Even with full control the planet’s pacification was far from guaranteed and continued to use extensive garrison forces to be kept under control, protests and riots are a frequent occurrence in several settlements. Only the Mandrill’s refusal to use Jade Falcon or Smoke Jaguar-esque tactics saves the world from becoming another Turtle Bay.
New India was the other location where Lyran resistance was expected to be heavy. Again, the Mandrills deployed five clusters. Unfortunately, the surprising appearance of the LCS Thunder, a Hyperion-class Heavy Destroyer, destroys the escorting the York-class Carrier RCS Firestorm before the heavy aerospace and dropship assets of the Rim Collection finally force the battered warship to withdraw from the system and allowing the Rim Collection’s Thirty-second Rim Lancers, Fourth Rim Assault, Fourth Rim Rangers, Tenth Rim Militia, and Second Rim Hussars to land on the planet. In a grueling battle that lasts for most of the month, Archonette Kathy Parks leads the newly activated Stolz Regiment, Fourth Schnelle Kraft, and Second Buena Guards in a spirited defence of the world. Her death during the fighting eventually forced the Lyrans off world, with the survivors rolled into the Second Buena Guards LCT. Mandrill losses are equally severe, with the destruction of the Thirty-second Rim Lancers, Fourth Rim Rangers, and Tenth Rim Militia Clusters. Survivors are absorbed into the remaining two clusters. Like Florida the resistance movements on New India and popular unrest will continue to take up Mandrill resources for months.
Outside the focal area, the Collection’s strike at Kaumberg, Alekseyvka, and Etiler; the former the theatre capital and the latter two home of other primary militia regimental combat teams within the theatre. At Kaumberg, the recent arrival of the Eleventh Commonwealth Guards RCT, together with the Kaumberg Militia and the First Fesnyng, fight a concentrated and protracted defensive campaign against the Rim Collection’s Smoke Keshik, First Rim Battle, Twenty-first Rim Battle, First Rim Rangers, Four-hundred-and-seventeenth Rim Sentinels, and First and Seventh Rim Militia Clusters. Both sides take heavy casualties and neither are able to gain the advantage.
At Alekseyvka, the Sixth Rim Guards and Twelfth Rim Lancers Clusters quickly destroy the defending Alekseyvka Militia and Third Fesnyng due to the festivities. By the end of the month, however, it becomes clear survivors have already begun an effective guerrilla campaign, intent on making the Collection’s lives miserable as they begin a scorched earth campaign to destroy anything remotely useful to the Lyran military. The Rim Collection forces withdraw from the system at the end of the month having caused enough damage to the world to use up a disproportionate amount of resources compared to the wealth of the world.
At Etiler, the Lyran’ Third Triumvirate LCT fights off a raid in force by the Nineteenth Striker and newly formed Fourth Rim Lancers Clusters, but not before the Rim Collection forces destroy the vitally important weapons and supply deport on the world.
At the close of the month, with these victories, President Redburn announces the reformation of the Rim Collection and Clan Fire Mandrill into the Mandrill Collective while he remains in charge of the nation there is little question about the Fire Mandrill influence on the nation. The Lyrans take stock of their losses and begin to form a counter force together with SLDF forces. Altogether, the Lyrans have lost all ten focal targets and Kaumberg is in danger of capture.
High Council Chambers
Isle of Albion, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th January 3118
In the carnivorous and tradition chambers of the High Council of New Avalon, and the Federated Suns, House Leader Imarra Sortek stood ready to address the formation. “Lords and Ladies of New Avalon, I am House Leader Imarra Sortek the leader of Warrior House Sortek. Three years ago, my people were brought to the Federated Suns by a freak accident from another universe, from another nation, with no way back we have dedicated our lives to this nation.” She said speaking clearly, she had chosen to wear a standard AFFS uniform with no decorations but the insignia of Warrior House Sortek on the left breast the insignia was similar to the emblem of House Sortek which featured an artist’s impression of the Crossroads Prairie on New Avalon where the house had gained its first Barony. Warrior House Sortek added a pair of crossed swords behind the image all set upon a shield, they had chosen to keep the insignia removing only the gold colouring of the Capellan state on the swords since coming to the Federated Suns. “Our Warrior House stands guarding the world of Marduk, where we have built a home, the good grace of House Davion and this Council gifted a portion of this world to my people giving us a permanent home and giving you a force of warriors who were fanatically prepared to defend it. An arrangement I think everyone here is happy with?” She asked leaving the question in the air.
No-one immediately spoke so Imarra Sortek continued “I thought so.” She answered her own question “Warrior House Imarra finds this arrangement agreeable and will continue to guard the Draconis Combine border, but we will not continue as Warrior House Sortek.” She said “the title Warrior House brings an image which is not popular in this realm, but we will not give up our name.” She said “instead we will adopt a name more closely related to our current home and become the Order of Sortek.” She said announcing the change as she spoke, she saw members of the Sortek family who looked uncomfortable by her announcement but she had felt it was important for the leadership of the Federated Suns to know about these changes and raise the profile of her people. The Order of Sortek defended a world on the border of a large enemy state, they needed all the support they could gather. The unit was supported by a Household Guard which while not directly attached to the Order’s forces when deployed did regularly exercise with the both the Order’s forces and the planetary militia. Imarra Sortek’s desire was to see the Household Guard merged with the Order’s forces but they needed time and training before they were ready for that leap and her warriors needed time to accept them as equals.
Raid
Kassandra’s Memory, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
21st January 3118
A particle cannons slammed into Schuyler McCoy’s Archer shattering armour plate McCoy twisted the Archer’s torso to track the enemy Ebony BattleMech ran past. The Malcontents had been attacked, well after they had begun raiding Kassandra’s Memory, the group of Ebony BattleMechs had engaged them and already knocked down two of the Malcontents’ BattleMechs. The stealth armour made the Ebony’s hard to track but so far, he had tracked down eight of the enemy Mechs who were harassing them while missile equipped armour peppered their position.
“We need to break out of this before we take some serious damage!” He called out “everyone wheel to the right and pull.” He ordered to his left Tom Ayrton twisted his Highlander and began to move right, Schuyler pivoted his Mech and tried to follow the heavier Highlander. Behind him Amanda Cavalcanti’s Cataphract but it didn’t complete the move as two snub-nosed particle cannons targeted the Heavy Mech’s left leg blowing out the knee actuator. The seventy-ton BattleMech stumbled and fell with a crash.
“Frack!” She called out stumbling about trying to get the Mech back up before she could missiles slammed into its back and two more particle cannons quickly followed “Gyros hit, this thing is toast.”
“Jack, get one of your tanks in here we need an extraction!” He called out as more missiles slammed into Amanda’s downed BattleMech.
“Negative, negative, don’t do it we’re already taking losses pull the hell out!” She called out as Schuyler brought the Hatchet down on one of the Ebony BattleMechs tearing it in half the hatchet tore down through the shoulder tearing off the arm, down through the torso and in one strike tore off the leg too. “I can’t make it, get out of here!”
“Not a chance in hell!” He said opening fire with the Archer’s short-range missiles peppering another of the Ebonys crippling the twenty-five-ton BattleMech. “We can hold!”
“Not long enough!” She replied as an autocannon barrage tore across the side of the Archer one of them striking the cockpit. “Get out of here!” She pleaded with him as particle cannon fire tore across Ayrton’s Highlander.
“We’re coming back!”
“Just go” she said as the enemy units were closing in, the Malcontents had taken eight Mechs and four Prime Movers to the planet but they had now lost three of their Mechs and the MechWarriors.
“Move towards the DropShip, fall back!” He called out seeing an entire company of armour moving in to support the remaining BattleMechs and an additional lance of Heavy Mechs also appearing in the distance. “Disappear before they have a chance to track us.” He said glancing at the downed Cataphract seeing it laying immobile as two tanks approached it. “We’re coming back, I love you.” He said continuing to fall back blasting at the enemy Mechs with his particle cannon, Tom Ayrton continued to fire his BattleMech’s gauss rifle as the unit fell back into the woods.
Two hours later after a game of cat and mouse the DropShip blasted off the surface of the planet with the Malcontents BattleMechs onboard but it had left behind Schyler McCoy and several of his MechWarriors who planned on rescuing Amanda Cavalcanti and any of the other MechWarriors who had fallen and survived.
Trials of Possession
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th January 3118
In the continuing tit-for-tat Trials of Possession being waged between Clan Nova Cat and the Federated Suns Clan Nova Cat seize possession of Symsonia in the Minnette PDZ of the Crucis March. During the Trial Clan Nova Cat debut their newest OmniMech the Shadow Cat III. This new OmniMech based on the original OmniMech features an updated chassis and configurations using the newest technology, the Mech’s fixed jump jets have also been removed and replaced with pod mountable variants. The new design takes the defenders by surprise.
In retaliation for the continued Nova Cat trials but the strong defence around the so-called Crofton Occupation Zone, which was the name the Federated Suns had given the region of worlds the Nova Cats had taken from the Federated Suns in recent Trials of Possession, had made the Federated Suns look elsewhere to try and curtail the Clan’s ambitions. As a result, the Federated Suns target the far side of the Nova Cat’s Den in a series of attacks which sees Gebo, Ivaldi, Mersey and Laskarid all taken by the Federated Suns in rapid Trials of Possession.
The leadership of the Federated Suns believe that these victories will control the Nova Cats ambitions and make them draw back due to the fear of total war but they actually do the opposite. The actions of the succession state towards the Clan show them that the Federated Suns not only respects the Trials of Possession but they are supporting the Nova Cat’s continued Trials as the two cultures take completely different approaches to combat and territorial changes. Even after almost seventy years of co-existence the Inner Sphere and Clans continued to have stark ideological differences.
Liberation
Kaumberg, Kaumberg Theatre
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
28th January 3118
The retreat from Kaumberg was in full swing as Rim Collective forces streamed from the surface heading for JumpShips which waited at a pirate point. The retreat wasn’t being completely uncontested as aerospace fighters from Kaumberg harried them at every turn but the fighters were not what was concerning for the periphery nation’s forces as two Lyran Commonwealth WarShips were bearing down on their position. With an invasion force in retreat conventional wisdom would have been to allow the Rim Collective’s forces to retreat but the Lyrans had no intention of allowing them to leave without a fight and they had taken the typical Lyran approach to an issue. Charging at their fastest acceleration rate the LCS Peter Steiner-Davion, an Indefatigable-class Battleship, and the LCS Błyskawica, a Nightlord-class Battleship, surrounded by dozens of assault DropShips and aerospace fighters were approaching. These two ships were the heaviest in the Lyran Navy and were akin to taking a hammer to crack an egg.
The Rim Collective vessel RCS Rim Collection, one of their newest Warrior-class Battle-cruisers, broke from the retreating formation first arcing to port as the two Lyran WarShips approached to weapons range. The ship’s manoeuvre allowed the nine hundred-and-twenty thousand tonne WarShip to engage the incoming Lyran vessels with its broadside weapons array of Naval autocannons, missiles and lasers. The weapons were concentrated on the closer LCS Peter Steiner-Davion but the 1.8 million tonne Battleship’s heavy armour was far too thick for the ship to be concerned with a single volley from the heavier of the two Rim Collective vessels.
The Lyran return volley was devastating naval grade heavy particle cannons, lasers and gauss rifles fired by both pursuing vessels the initial gauss rifle slots slammed into the front port side of the Battle-cruiser shattering armour and a weapon’s position but not penetrating the armour. Moments later the particle cannons followed burning down the side of the ship hitting multiple parts of the ship causing more damage. While the naval particle cannons speared into the middle of the ship penetrating the armour there causing internal damage.
The damage caused against the Warrior caused the Battle-cruiser to list slightly indicating that a control thruster had been hit but that didn’t stop the ship returning fire on the two closing WarShips causing more damage to the Peter Steiner-Davion but still failing to penetrate the armour. The two Lyran WarShips split their approach with the Warrior damaged and clearly having issues manoeuvring the Peter Steiner-Davion moved under the Błyskawica turning to port as it moved to match the Warrior’s course while the Nightlord-class Blyskawica charged forwards still driving on the retreating Rim Collection forces.
Because they had split up the Rim Collective’s Warrior-class Battle-cruiser was bracketed by the two ships while the vessel tried to defend itself firing another broadside of weapons into the broadside of the Peter Steiner-Davion the Indefatigable-class Battleship returned in kind engaging with a full broadside of its own penetrating the ship’s armour in several place. At the same time the Blyskawica opened fire on the rear of the ship all but obliterating the vessels engine array. The ruined hulk of a WarShip continued on its course now unable to manoeuvre and with multiple compartments open to space or filled with internal fires.
With the Battle-cruiser disabled the Blyskawica continued to charge forwards in pursuit of the Rim Collective force intent on wiping out the invasion force. Ahead of the Nightlord the second WarShip which had been escorting the Rim Collective force the RCS Firestorm, a York-class Destroyer/Carrier, turned to engage the Nightlord along with its aerospace fighters. The Firestorm had one chance of stopping the Blyskawica and the captain took that option setting a collision course with the larger vessel. The captain of the Blyskawica wasn’t ready to commit suicide and continue on a collision course and instead turned to starboard exposing its broadside to the incoming Rim Collective WarShip. Opening fire, the weapons of the Nightlord sliced through the Firestorm shredding its lighter armour with enough firepower to destroy a WarShip twice its size. Some of the firepower tore several aerospace fighters from the same area while the Lyran aerospace fighters engaged the rest. The Firestorm’s actions caused no damage to a single Lyran asset but they accomplished their mission forcing the Blyskawica to change course which had delayed its attack on the Rim Collective’s retreating forces allowing the DropShips to reach their JumpShips and escape the system.
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While the WarShips fought in space around Kaumberg troop DropShips landed on the planet to ensure that the Rim Collective’s forces had retreated from the planet. While the LCAF reinforcements spread across the planet’s island chains a heavily armed convoy moved into the capital city Stuttgart heading to the seat of power on the planet the House of Lords. Once there with the colony surrounded by Battle Armoured troopers made up of both the Lyran Royal Guards and the Royal Black Watch of the Star League Defence Force Lyran Archon, and current First Lord, Jessica Steiner headed into the building.
Inside the House of Lords was a beautiful architecturally Germanic-styled building which had been built soon after the planet’s colonisation centuries before. Inside Archonette Erich Sheridan stood waiting for her. Erich Sheridan was approaching one hundred years old but he appeared to be quite healthy his full head of hair was entirely grey now having lost its dark colour, only his goatee maintained a hint of colour. He wore a dark business suite which had been made along military lines “Archon, welcome home” he said greeting her referencing the Barony which the world had gifted to House Steiner when the world was colonized. “I could have come to your residence.” He offered House Steiner maintained a home on the world which was kept in pristine condition despite its rare usage.
“I wanted to speak to you quickly and ensure the situation on Kaumberg got my immediate attention. What is the situation?”
“Archon, my forces held them at bay until your forces entered the system. When it was clear that you had a superior force, they began to withdraw, my people did not have the firepower to counter them.” He said glancing over the Archon’s shoulder as another woman in LCAF uniform Erich Sheridan immediately recognised her “General Varnay” he said welcoming Kelly Varnay to the conversation. While she had been born to the line that betrayed House Davion and tried to eliminate it from the Federated Suns Kelly Varnay had proven over the last decade and a half of service, she was loyal to House Steiner.
“Archonette Varnay” Archon Jessica Steiner said correcting him slightly
“Congratulations” he said seeing Kelly’s face twist slightly “maybe?”
“I’m an officer not a politician” she grumbled; she hadn’t wanted the position but Archon Steiner believed in the idea.
“You can be so more” the Archon said to the other woman, Erich Sheridan watched quietly as the discussion played out Kelly Varnay was ten years older than the Archon but it was clear who was in command.
“Archon, I think this is an inspired choice General… pardon me, Archonette Varnay’s Fesnyng and Schnelle forces have revolutionised our defences along the periphery border. Her vision goes to further reinforce ideas do not always have to come from up high to succeed. Of course, we need Tharkad’s support and the support of the Navy but Skye has proven that an autonomous region can succeed against the enemies that threaten out realm while we remain loyal to House Steiner.”
“The Triad and nobility on Tharkad and Carlisle do not agree” Archon Steiner said “despite Skye’s successes and the lack of rebellions in recent years they believe we are welcoming the balkanisation of the Lyran nation.” She continued raising her hand to silent his protests “I have decided to continue the experiment, with one simple caveat which I want you to both understand.” She said glancing between them “should Kaumberg or Buena feel the need to go it alone and break with the covenant we will make here I will bring destruction down on your heads that you have never experienced. The Lyran people stand together or they do not stand.”
“I understand Archon” Kelly Varnay said immediately she had been tasked with sorting out Buena and revolutionising the fighting forces in that Theatre while Sheridan would be left to continue to defend Kaumberg. She already wanted to expand the Fesnyng and Schnelle forces debuted in the Kaumberg Theatre to Buena intent on making the defenders robust and mobile.
“Of course, Archon Steiner, we will serve you as all other Province lords do in the service of House Steiner.” He said immediately showing where he believed the Archonette model should stand on a level par with the Provincial leaders on Alarion, Skye and Halfway. “We will turn back the aggressors on our borders.”
-
Infiltration
Forward Operating Base
Kassandra’s Memory, Magistracy of Canopus
1st February 3118
It had taken Schuyler McCoy and his dismounted MechWarriors four days to walk to the forward operating base occupied by Magistracy of Canopus troops that they believed to be holding the three lost Malcontents MechWarriors. None of the four MechWarriors were commandos but they had camouflage gear and rifles taken from their Mechs before they abandoned them. Kassandra’s Memory was a warm world with long days and a lack of weather but there was plenty of shrubs for them to use as concealment. McCoy had deployed them around the facility and they’d spent most of the last week watching the temporary base and the movement of the troops now they were back together.
“What have we seen?”
“They are packing up the eastern flank, they must not be expecting anyone to cause trouble as they’ve taken apart some of the fortifications the troops are down to their hand weapons. There is still a lot more of them than us boss, it’s easier without the fixed weapons but a frontal assault is still out of the question.”
“Agreed, thanks Tom” he said the other MechWarrior was nearly ten years older than Schuyler, and would be fifty next year but thanks to modern medicine he was barely showing it only with some grey on the hairs on the side of his dead, they had known each other for years and Schuyler considered him to be his right hand in most matters.
“They are trying to repair the Cataphract” Faris Scherwiz naming Amanda Cavalcanti’s BattleMech “you can see it from the western side they have it standing in a temporary repair harness.”
“While it would be nice to salvage it, I wouldn’t call it a priority. Have they moved it?”
“Not on its own” Faris confirmed “they lifted it with cranes.”
“Which brings us to what I saw” Derek Lenihan said, “Schuyler these guys have Ebony BattleMechs and the patches that suggest they are Ebon Magistrate forces but I’m not sure if they are.” He suggested he was the youngest of the group just a couple of years short of his fortieth birthday but he’d seen plenty combat so they all listened “I saw some of their training drills in the court yard and runs, their sergeant was a lot harsher than you’d expect with an elite unit. He had them running full drills around the whole facility perimeter with their full kit in the blazing sun.”
“Play hard, fight easy” Tom Ayrton suggested “they have the equipment that suggests they are, but maybe this is a training mission or some sort of graduation mission. Giving them some practical experience.”
“Why would you take new recruits into an elite unit, that doesn’t make sense” Schuyler McCoy noted “maybe they were sent here to the back of nowhere to fly the flag keep the locals in check? These guys are training but whomever sent them didn’t want anyone interfering? So, they dressed them up as special forces”
“They did a good job if that’s the case those Ebonys are front line BattleMechs.”
“Indeed, so what do they have? We know they started with eight Ebony BattleMechs, a minimum of a dozen vehicles and a heavier lance but I’ve saw the heavier lance leave yesterday and it hasn’t returned and the at least half of the vehicles are gone.”
“I think we’re down to five combat vehicles one of them is an APC, the others are support Mechs. We destroyed five of the Ebonys all three that remained have been under repair for the last few days, they are probably functional or close to it.”
“There’s a minimum of three guards at the guard posts I’ve seen, sometimes as many as six during a shift change over” the others nodded suggesting they had seen something similar.” That suggests to me that they’ve got a minimum of twenty-four infantry troopers and an upwards figure of ninety-six.” Tom Ayrton suggested twenty-four would give them a two-shift rotation, the upper figure would give them a four-shift rotation.
“I think it’s only two shifts” Faris said seeing the looks from the other three “a girl notices when the same guys are in a post, they have the same habits.”
“It would go with only one APC and the deconstruction work; they must be preparing to move out.” Derek noted “if they move out, we can’t take on the mobilized convoy.”
“No, I agree, we are running out of time” Schuyler agreed “we need to hit them in the next day or two. Any sightings of our people?”
“I saw Amanda yesterday walking in circles in the exercise yard. She didn’t look badly beat up and they at least clothed her.” Faris said “when she was finished, she was taken to the south side into that complex of tents and fortifications that are there.”
“We can’t take them on just the four of us, a direct assault we won’t have a chance, even having an idea where our people are.” Tom Ayrton cautioned
“We’re not going to hit them directly.” Schuyler said “we’re going to use their work against them.” He said “I’ve seen vehicles arrive the last few days Prime Movers and other support vehicles some of them taken in equipment. They are probably here to help with the removal of the base.” He said “tomorrow we’re going to walk off the road and watch for the next group to come through, we’ll find a choke point and ambush one of the vehicles then use that to get in.” he suggested “once inside I’m going to go for the Cataphract. My codes and patterns should still be stored in its memory bank, if they’ve cleared it, I’ll use the back-up code. You three will find our people and get back to the vehicle. Then when the time is right, I’ll surprise them, if I can take out the remaining Ebonys then you may all have a chance of escape.”
“If you can’t we’re all dead”
“No pressure, thanks Tom, I’ll do what’s needed.”
---
The four of them walked nearly four kilometres from the base following the roads finding a crossroads with a fuel station and shop. There were a few civilian vehicles parked not knowing where the vehicles would turn at the crossroads, they had no choice but to wait. They didn’t need to wait long within an hour two Prime Movers had arrived and the four crewmen filled their vehicles with fuel and used the facilities at the civilian shop. This far into the periphery there was little observance of protocol. “If they want to break the rules we may as well male them pay for it.” Schuyler said “we don’t kill anyone unless we have to.”
Moving quickly down towards shop Schuyler pointed at the two vehicles “Faris, Tom secure those vehicles. Derek with me, quick and quiet!” He called out the two of them half fast walked half ran towards the shop. The shop was like a thousand others which had been seen for over a century in human existence on hundreds of worlds it was filled with fast foods and other convenience goods which travelers would buy. Schuyler looked down one of the two aisles and saw two of the troopers hunched over a machine playing some form of two-dimensional game, Schuyler raised two fingers towards Derek who nodded and stepped past walking past the counter where a dark-skinned middle-aged man dressed in a white t-shirt and well-worn jeans stood looking nervous. Derek looked at him as he passed and shook his head then glanced at Schuyler and raised two fingers of his own indicating he’d seen the other two. In the end aisle stood the final two guards who were huddled over looking at some pornographic magazines laughing despite all of the advances that humanity had made, and all the light years they had traveled some impulses never died. Schuyler and Derek looked at each other one more time and raised their weapons.
“Hands in the air!” Both shouted advancing on the two men their rifles pointed at them “do nothing and you don’t die today.” The four men had no choice and raised their arms away from their weapons.
---
An hour later they were back on the road again the shop owner had been convinced to lock the four ambushed troopers in his basement minus their uniforms. Schuyler and Derek had put on a show for the shop owner by aiming their weapons at him making it look like they’d forced him to contain the four men.
The two Prime Movers were allowed into the fire base with the Malcontents troops showing their papers at the gate the guards waving them through and directing them to a corner lot of the base. Immediately the base inhabitants began to load the two vehicles “we’re not going to have a lot of time, let’s get some equipment make it like we’re helping out then quietly disappear.” He ordered his three lance mates they moved and gathered some equipment helping the base staff load equipment onto the Prime Mover as they did the others returned for more equipment instead of gathering more equipment, they disappeared into the tent city which made up quarters for most of the base personnel.
Schuyler McCoy headed off to the right of the others cutting between the tents until he could see the maintenance cradles for the Cataphract and the four remaining Ebony BattleMechs, it appeared the salvage crew had been able to repair one of the Mechs damaged during the battle with the Malcontents. While it still had some armour damage the Cataphract looked mostly operational, he hoped it wasn’t just for show. McCoy wore a Magistracy uniform and decided to try and make it look like he belonged slinging the rifle over his shoulder he walked over to a Tech’s table and glanced over some of the paperwork and notes left, from what he could make out basic repairs to the gyro had been completed and it was ready for a test run.
“Who are you? What are you doing here?” someone asked off to his right-hand side Schuyler knew that his disguise would only pass so far and decided to take no chances spinning on the spot he brought the laser rifle down off his shoulder and pulled the trigger. The laser blast caught the older man, who was likely one of the leading techs on the Mech in the chest and he went down in a heap. Schuyler looked at the man for a moment then snapped out of it and reached for his radio on his belt clicking the transmit button three times to inform the others he’d made contact with the enemy. He then grabbed the tech and dragged him under the tech table placing boxes in front of the body to conceal it, beside the Mech cradle he found a coolant vest and pulled it on over his coveralls before beginning his climb up the Mech. He found the Cataphract’s cockpit was open and climbed onboard the seventy-ton BattleMech it was almost exactly like the last time he had been inside the Mech he reached behind the main computer screen and flicked a few of the controls there hoping the Canopian techs hadn’t questioned their purpose. He then reached up and to the side finding Amanda’s neuralhelmet pulling it down over his head he smelled sweat but also her scent. As reached over and began to bring the Mech online, as he did, he connected the coolant vest to the Mech’s systems the vest would keep him alive if the Mech got into a fight.
“Schuyler… the movers are gone we’re coming to you” Amanda’s voice crackled over the communication frequencies.
For a moment he was stunned she was alive, let alone on the radio “Amanda what do you mean?”
“The Prime Movers pulled out; another crew must be driving them in tandem with the one we replaced. We’re coming to you cover the Mechs.”
“The Mechs… oh frack!” Schuyler cursed he glanced at the BattleMech’s computer and noticed that the fiddling he’d done with the computer had swapped it over to his patterns and the neuralhelmet had recognised him. While the Cataphract was battlefield salvage like all of the Malcontents Mechs it technically belonged to Schuyler McCoy and so he had the techs load his neural patterns on to its systems. Normally they’d sit in the background and make no difference but today he needed the controls. “Time to cause some noise” he said grabbing the controls forcing the Cataphract into action.
The seventy-ton BattleMech stepped forwards its arms flailing out smashing the maintenance cradle to pieces in one move. He then lined up the torso mounted autocannon and fired a salvo of LB-X Cluster munitions straight into a communications dish shattering it blowing it into hundreds of pieces. He twisted the torso and fired a particle projection cannon shot into a parked LRM carrier blowing the lightly armoured support vehicle to pieces.
Small arms fire exploded all over the vehicle with the occasional high explosive shot grenade launcher or short-range missile added into the mix for a fully operational heavy Mech they were of little threat but with the damage the Cataphract had already taken Schuyler didn’t know how much more it could take. “Status!” he called into his handheld radio not trusting the inbuilt radio on the Cataphract.
“We’re boarding the Mechs we’ve got a group of infantry closing from the east, we could use some cover!” Derek called out twisting the Cataphract’s torso Schuyler laid down a volley of fire from all four of the medium pulse lasers breaking up the infantry formation. He side-stepped the Mech to the right and laid down some more fire cutting down dozens of troopers’ missiles and small arms fire continued to hit the Mech then a flight of long-range missiles slammed into the Mech from another vehicle one of the crews had somehow got online. Schuyler hit the vehicle with an autocannon round but didn’t disable the vehicle which began to move launching more missiles. More than half of the missiles missed their target but nearly a dozen still slammed into the Cataphract.
“I can’t take much more of this… guys” he said firing the particle cannon at the active vehicle missing his shot completely. Moments later another particle cannon shot fired this time from one of the Ebony BattleMechs.
“I can’t believe we’re doing this!” Tom Ayrton shouted as the twenty-five-ton BattleMech ran into combat its particle cannon blazing at the missile carrier. The fast-moving Mech was too quick to be targeted by the tank and as he ran behind it firing the particle cannon shot into the tanks back before following it up with a kick against one of the vehicle’s tracks disabling it. The turret began to track but Schuyler finished off its fight with another autocannon salvo. “We must be the only ones who can turn a jail break into a heist, what the hell were we thinking.”
“No idea” Schuyler said twisting his Mech around cutting down more infantry with the pulse lasers as he saw another of the Ebony Mechs come online. None of them had anti-infantry weapons but their size alone was intimidating to most MechWarriors. A third Ebony stepped forward.
“I’ve just about got this thing going…” Derek Lenihan said before Amanda broke in.
“Derek on your back!” She shouted into the radio but it was too late suddenly there was a large explosion from the back of the Ebony. The explosion exploded forwards breaching the cockpit’s armoured doors and blowing through the front of the light BattleMech instantly killing Lenihan, there was no point even calling to him as the headless BattleMech fell forwards to the ground. “Oh my god…”
“There’s nothing we can do, let’s get out of here before they get anything else going, cut to the east as soon as we leave the base we don’t stop until sundown.” Schuyler ordered looking at the downed BattleMech one more time “sorry Derek” he whispered as the four operational Ebony BattleMechs ran clear of the base all four stopped outside the base and turned firing their particle cannons into the base covering Schuyler’s retreat flattening many of the remaining structures.
All five BattleMechs then ran for their lives in silence both because of the shock at Derek’s death and to keep their radio traffic to a minimum hoping that would make them harder to detect, the four Ebonys had stealth armour but the Cataphract would stand out if a powerful enough sensor suite was turned towards it. They ran throughout the day secreting themselves in a cave where they could rest and gather their thoughts after the events of the day. Schuyler discovered that Amanda had been the only survivor with both of his other MechWarriors killed in the initial battle and now Derek was dead as well. It appeared that every effort he made to defend Whittington either ended up with his people being killed at home or away. The group stayed hidden for nearly a week on Kassandra’s Memory hiding from the Magistracy of Canopus troops before finally escaping from the world heading for home their newly captured BattleMechs in all.
Clan conflict
District of Regulus, Free Worlds League
9th February 3118
While there was little evidence solid proof to show that the Clans were coordinating their activities by agreement there was little question when it came to their actions. While the Wolves were struggling to make an impact on the Star League Protectorate the current change in targets had taken the Free Worlds League by surprise and within days Ariel, Asellus Australis, Asellus Borealis, Gallatin and Autumn Wind had all fallen to a series of lightning assaults by Assault Clusters as the Wolves attempted to isolate Marik and the systems near it.
For years the Clan border had felt so far away for so long but today they had arrived on the world of Sophie’s World. Now sitting in the cockpit of his ZU-G60 Anzu BattleMech twenty-one-year-old Caden Cameron-Jones waited nervously as the Wolves approached. The Anzu’s sensors pinged moments later “here they come!” He called out stepping the sixty-ton BattleMech forwards. “Give them hell!” He said pulling the trigger for the long-range missile launcher and particle cannon sending ten missiles and a particle beam towards the enemy a Clan Wolf Thirty-fourth Champions Cluster Linebacker OmniMech. Less than half of the LRMs hit the sixty-five-ton Linebacker while the particle cannon missed the hunched over OmniMech completely.
On the torso of the OmniMech a hatch opened and five long range missiles fired in return towards the Anzu while both arms fired lightning bolts at the BattleMech. The particle cannons were about three times as devastating as the one the Anzu carried and they fired at greater range. Fortunately for Caden Cameron-Jones only one of the particle cannons struck catching the Anzu high in the chest while the other fizzled out overhead, the five missiles fired by the Linebacker missed completely tearing up the ground beside the BattleMech.
Caden launched his forwards into a run launching more missiles and another particle cannon shot at the Linebacker, the Clan Mech dodged out of the way of the particle cannon shot while the missiles caused minimal damage. Caden had prepared for the dodge however and the Linebacker dodged straight into an autocannon volley which walked its way across the heavy OmniMech’s torso. Missiles and more particle cannon shots returned fire against the Anzu both slammed into the Anzu high on the torso the first vaporising armour there the second came in even higher slamming into the charging Anzu’s cockpit.
The impact of the oversized extended range particle cannon against the Anzu’s cockpit was devastating, the armour there was melted away in seconds while the combined kinetic force and heat of the man-made lightning cannon burned though the cockpit behind it seconds later killing Caden Cameron-Jones instantly. The command less Anzu staggered forwards before falling half burying itself in the light sand of Sophie’s World’s surface. Duke Caden Cameron-Jones was the first person to die on the world but he wasn’t the last for hours the Wolves and Regulan troops engaged each other before finally the Free Worlds League troops gained the upper hand driving the Clansmen from the world but the damage was done and the heir to the District of Regulus was dead.
Aftermath, Andrea Moreira Firebase
Tarncredi IV, Tarncredi IV PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
11th February 3118
In the history of Tarncredi IV Andrea Moreira was a name as well known as the planetary dukes during the Davion Civil War Moreira had been a minor noble woman who had taken up arms to join Alexander Davion’s forces and fought in the final battles for control over Tarncredi IV and to end the Civil War. The firebase occupied by the victors of the most recent battle were a command which while in the service of House Davion were currently working without command authority Leftenant Laure Bieganski of the Order of Sortek had come to Tarncredi IV to assist in the defence of the system fighting against a Clan Snow Raven raid.
Now she and the two MechWarriors of the lance were repairing their three BattleMechs. Unfortunately, MechWarrior Jochen Stuppacher had been killed in the fighting and his Catapult BattleMech was nothing but a wreck. As thanks for their assistance in the Trial the commander of the First Dragonlords Regiment had authorised the surviving MechWarriors to each select a single piece of Clan built salvage from the battlefield so each of them was fitting these weapons into their BattleMechs. Laure’s Enforcer III’s Extended-Range Large Laser had been replaced with a Clan made model with an additional Extended Range Medium Laser mounted beside it increasing the Mech’s hitting power.
Standing away from the lance’s Cuirass Laure Bieganski watched as the Mech’s pilot and a tech continued work to replace the torso mounted laser system with a salvaged laser when she became aware of two people approaching her from the right. Laure was forty-two years old and had served with Warrior House Sortek for twenty-four years and had remained with the House when it had come to this universe thirteen years before she still believed in the warrior-monk ideals of the Warrior Houses she had learned in the Confederated Suns which was why Grandmaster of the Order Imarra Sortek had deployed her with this lance to screen recruits before they arrived on Murduk. As she turned her hand drifted to the sabre which hung from her belt out of habit rather than the threat.
“Leftenant, I am Scott Kelly and this is Charlie Johnston we both served with the Dragonlords but have been given permission by our Colonel to speak with you. We wish to apply to join the Order of Sortek.”
“You have jobs in the service of House Davion, why would you want to transfer to another command?”
“We wish to serve the whole of House Davion, your mission will take you across the Federated Suns. We wish to train with the best and progress our careers. Neither of us could afford to go to one of this nation’s prestigious schools we have learned on the job throughout, we wish to bring that to your command.” Charlie Johnston explained.
“You do know that once our mission is completed, we will be heading back to Murduk and we’ll primarily serve as the defence of that world.”
“Yes, but we’ll learn from the best warriors on the Draconis March and join something bigger than us.”
“I will speak with your Colonel and confirm your attachment to my lance, neither of you will immediately serve as a MechWarrior you will go back to being apprentices that is understood?” She asked both nodded “assuming your transfer is confirmed I will assign you to one of my MechWarriors and your training will begin. You will be tested on academic study, BattleMech piloting, gunnery and maintenance. You need to understand this will be a lot of work.” Both nodded their acceptance of the terms within hours Laure had spoken to the Dragonlords Colonel who explained that while he’d have liked to keep the two MechWarriors both had lost their Mechs fighting the Ravens and he had no other BattleMechs available at present so he was ready to dispossess them as he had no means of transferring them to another unit. Both MechWarriors were capable if not stellar Laure hoped that with training the two would become productive members of the Order of Sortek, if not they would be cut.
Meanwhile the Snow Ravens border raids had been cut short by a Draconis Combine offensive at the far side of the Raven Alliance. In a coordinated offensive launched with WarShip support the entire Ryuken Brigade of regiments invaded the systems of Tabayama, Suianeer and Kazanka with two regiments hitting each of the systems capturing all three within hours from the Ravens driving back their forces.
Ruling Council Meeting
Jetheitania, Zeta Atheni
Zeta Quadrant, Periphery
28th February 3118
It was a wet day on Zeta Atheni and the capitol city Jetheitania was suffering from minor flooding as the planet’s primitive drainage system was struggling with the rain. This hadn’t stopped the Ruling Council from meeting in their chambers on the outskirts of the city. The design of Jetheitania City was that the Ruling Council Chambers were located out with the city so not to distract the people from their daily lives. At this session while the flooding had come up more important was the issue on Zeta Minoris where a viral respiratory disease was passing quickly and according to recent reports had spread to Zeta Parada. The Speaker for Zeta Minoris Rachal Marchand was speaking she was in her thirties and young to represent a world but was dressed impeccably in a navy-blue business suit. “Ladies and gentlemen, it is important that medicines arrive as quickly as possible to Zeta Minoris, already the death toll on my world is in the hundreds. In weeks it will be in the thousands. And now according to reports a similar or the same virus is passing quickly on Zeta Parada. We need help.”
“Yes, so do the people of Zeta Parada” Romy Monteiro said standing for her world while Rachal Marchand was young for her world Speaker Romy Monteiro was on the other end of the spectrum and was in her seventies wearing a red velvet dress with frills around the shoulders, it was like something some people would wear to a formal dance. “While Zeta Minoris is already showing hundreds of cases and by the figures, they are presenting suggests community transmission has begun, our world’s still at single case transmission we could stop it quickly if we get the medicines we need.” She suggested “my planetary council have initiated a social lockdown and are trying to limit community transmission.”
“There is a DropShip at present taking commercial JumpShip to Buena to purchase medicines from the Lyran Commonwealth.” Council Leader Ingvar Lofgren the leader of the council said. The male was in his fifties with a full head of grey hair a black business suit, white shirt and green tie. “We will buy enough to inoculate all of Zeta Minoris, treat all of those on Zeta Parada and have enough to treat more on other worlds should we need it. Each world with infected cases should identify those who have this disease and isolate them to the best of their ability until the vaccines arrive from Buena.”
“And should this virus get out of control what will we do then?” Richard Madisha the representative of Zeta Shimae V asked his was the least populated and least capable of protecting its population. “Can I suggest to this council that the Mandrill Collective is closer than Buena…” he began like Rachal Marshand he was young and was willing to take risks the others began to try and drone him out. “May I suggest that the Mandrill Collective is closer than Buena and we should turn to them for help” he said continuing on “if this virus spreads to the Mandrill Collective, then they will have as much trouble as us, they do not need transmission on the scale of Zeta Minoris any more than we do.” He said “Ladies and gentlemen while I agree with this council’s previous judgement against approaching the Mandrills, or the lack of until now, but in this case, we may need it.”
“I strongly object to this course, the vaccines will arrive from Buena before it gets out of hand.” Lofgren said looking at the others “we have worked this out together up until now and will continue to.” He said Lofgren’s words swayed the council and kept a deal with the Mandrill’s off the table, at least for now.
After the meeting Lofgren retreated to his nearby office there a figure who wore a green pants suit sitting in a comfortable red chair. “I did what you wanted. Now what?” He said looking at the woman she was in her thirties she had brown bobbed hair, almost delicate features, beautiful red lips, piercing green eyes and with a green shirt of the same ton as her suit underneath.
“Now we wait until the other penny drops” the woman said “your DropShip will not be returning from Buena…”
“There are twenty-four of our people onboard that ship! The ship itself is worth a great deal to our nation!”
“The DropShip does not matter” she said quietly “as for your people I am sorry about them, but they are going to be the last that you need be worried about.” She said “the virus is going to get worse; it will spread quickly to all of the worlds of the Quadrant and the outer stagers of the Cirincus Federation, the Mandrill Collective and Buena Archonette of the Lyran Commonwealth.”
“Buena Archonette?” Lofgren repeated not being familiar with the name.
“It is a recent development internal to the Lyran Commonwealth it won’t affect your relationship with them in the slightest, the Lyrans will be scrambling about to counter the virus like you currently are.”
“Without that DropShip our nation will be on its knees without those vaccines!” Lofgren said recovering from what she was saying.
“Yes, it will” the woman said “your nation will suffer Council Leader Lofgren, they will need a strong leader and they will need someone willing to take chances to get you through the next few months. Someone willing to make a decision that will protect what is left of your nation and your future.” She said standing up “be strong, your nation will suffer but it will come through this stronger than ever and in a superior position. That is what you have been promised and that is what we will deliver.” She said leaving the room leaving Ingvar Lofgren alone with his thoughts. As promised news of the a JumpShip’s disappearance along with Zeta Quadrant’s DropShip filtered through to the nation in May with the virus spreading throughout the nation’s four worlds and slowly into nearby systems just as the figure had promised, the virus also began showing up on worlds nearby which have trade with the Zeta Quadrant in the Mandrill Collective, Buena Archonette and Cirincus Federation.
-
Tarmac, Auxiliary Spaceport 3
Outpost Aberdeen, Castrovia
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
3rd March 3118
Stepping clear of the Mule-class DropShip Rybicki onto a spaceport’s tarmac it was like the hundred other facilities that Baily Snow Raven had visited during her career first as a member of Clan Snow Raven, then as a mercenary and then as a freelance operator. There were utility vehicles moving around, fuel tanks and plenty of active machinery. Several BattleMechs were patrolling around the spaceport while two other DropShips were also landed at the spaceport.
She was thirty-four years old and had been born into Clan Snow Raven destined to become an Aerospace Fighter pilot, then as a ProtoMech pilot after aerospace training had not gone well. She had undergone the enhanced imaging treatment to pilot the ProtoMechs and had been assigned to a Centaur ProtoMech, unfortunately only a fortnight after her graduation as a pilot she was captured by a mercenary force. Soon after she and her two surviving point mates had served with the mercenary unit Krecji’s Squadron, a combined-arms battalion, unfortunately combat losses had resulted in both of her point mates being killed and she alone had survived. When Krecji’s Squadron had passed through Galatea Station she had broken from the unit and agreed a personal contract with the Capellan Confederation to help the Confederation with some development work. In exchange for Baily’s assistance and the Centaur ProtoMech the Capellan Confederation had paid a pretty sum to Krecji’s Squadron, enough to purchase a couple of light BattleMechs.
Now she had been transported to the world of Castrovia a jewel of a world in the heart of the Capellan Confederation. From what she had been told the Capellans had been researching ProtoMech technology for several years which had first begun on the dead world of Necromo. Looking around she saw that Castrovia was truly a beautiful world with idyllic green hills and trees surrounding the spaceport. Behind her a transporter vehicle left the DropShip carrying her Centaur ProtoMech which was laid on its back. In the air nearby there was a thundering sound as a four-rotor engine egg shaped VTOL appeared in the sky with several lifting wires dangling from underside. Baily watched as they hooked up the ProtoMech to the VTOL and it was lifted into the sky due to the aircraft’s engine nacelle configuration, two front and two rear, the cargo carried under the aircraft was perfectly balanced. Even as the VTOL and its Centaur cargo began to fly away a civilian vehicle pulled up beside the landing pad. An older woman with greying-brown hair, wearing a white jacket and navy skirt got out of the vehicle and approached her, she stood nearly a full head higher than Baily’s short frame.
“Good afternoon and welcome to Castrovia, I am Citizen Doctor Nadda Jerod the leading scientist on Project Aberdeen.” She said stopping short of Baily.
“Where is my Mech going?” She asked casting an eye on her ProtoMech again.
“To our facility, if you will come with me, we will take you there.” She said Baily nodded and followed her to the limousine. The vehicle drove along a short road before turning off the main road down a track until they reached a rock-face, it stopped briefly before the rock face swung open revealing an entrance and tunnel large enough for a vehicle two or three times larger than the limousine.
Deep inside the mountain face Baily and Citizen Doctor Nadda Jerod stepped out of the vehicle and entered a high military facility with a high ceiling. There were technicians moving around the facility. Jerod led Baily to an opening which overlooked a massive hanger on the deck there were hundreds of ProtoMechs in various states of completion. “What is this?” Baily wondered looking over the field.
“For decades we have had teams scouring battlefields recovering ProtoMechs and purchasing them from the Clans.” Jerod explained “we have been unable to utilise them on the battlefield as we lacked the knowledge that could be gained from a live ProtoMech pilot, until now.” She said looking at Baily “we want to know how your brain works dear.” As she spoke two guards closed from both sides and seized Baily’s arms “unfortunately, this may be a little uncomfortable.”
There was the sound of heavy metal foot prints as something else closed on them and suddenly a shirtless figure with the build of a Clan Elemental but with breathing vents built into and around his neck and metal back-canted faun legs approached. “Welcome to Outpost Aberdeen young warrior, I am Elika Laban and I will enjoy seeing your contribution to our project. Your contributions will not be forgotten.” The near nightmarish character said leaning towards her Baily was reminded of stories of the Word of Blake’s cybernetically enhanced Manei Domini looking at the creature and she wondered exactly what she had volunteered and gotten herself into.
Entrance Jump, Golden Archipelago (Monolith-class JumpShip)
Galatea, Galatea Station
Star League Protectorate
11th March 3118
The Monolith-class JumpShip Golden Archipelago jumped into the Galatea system and immediately launched a Mammoth-class DropShip, the Marion Fulton, which burned towards to Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission run Galatea Station. Remaining at the JumpShip was a Leopard CV and an Avenger-class DropShips which were also part of the unit. Today the unit’s commander Captain Anthony Steve planned to register their command with the MRBC as Steve’s Steve a unit which would specialize in facilitating the movement of resources from one planet to another. The Mammoth’s cargo bay would be turned over to any customers as would the remaining six DropShip Collars on the JumpShip for transport of any customer’s assets.
When registering his command Anthony Steve concealed from the MRBC that there was a lance of Archer BattleMechs hidden behind a fake wall on the Marion Fulton and company of Battle Armoured equipped marines for security. These assets would only be used to get the command out of trouble when on the ground.
The unit’s first contract is to transport a combined arms Battalion’s worth of equipment from Hesperus II to the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry which is based in the Federated Suns.
Assassination attempt
Marduk, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
20th March 3118
A raid on Marduk by an unidentified combined arms regiment is followed by special forces attack on the Order of Sortek’s command complex. Analysis of the attack points towards the attack being directed at the Order of Sortek instead of any of the other facilities on the world. Marduk’s militia works hand in hand with the Order of Sortek to turn the attack aside. Like the main forces the special forces attack employs top-rated stealth equipment which had been sourced from the Draconis Combine but they fall afoul to the layered defences of the Order of Sortek’s facility. The facility is built into a mountain, blast proof door follows blast proof door with multiple secure rooms which are full of heavily armed members of the unit’s Household Guard infantry brigade, most members of the Order begin at the bottom and must work their way up before gaining a front-line position. Sheer numbers turn back the attack with the entire assault force killed, dozens of the Order’s infantry troopers die in the attack but their fanatical devotion to the defence of their facility proves their worth.
Conference Room, Rasalhague (Leviathan II-class Battleship)
Alshian, Alshian District
Rasalhague Dominion
23rd March 3118
Despite living her entire life as a warrior of the Rasalhague Dominion and having travelled in space throughout her life the new Khan of Clan Ghost Bear, and by extension the Rasalhague Dominion, Khan Angela Bekker hated space travel but it was part of her life and today was a necessary duty. On board the battleship Rasalhague she was watching the Rasalhague Dominion’s most recent Trial of Founding, since the agreement by the Khans to honour future Trials of Founding for new Bloodhouses there had been three such battles two by trueborn warriors one who had failed dying in the attempt and another a MechWarrior named Ilnay who had founded the Techus Bloodhouse witnessed by saKhan Faulk Lassenerra.
This was Angela’s first witnessing of a Trial of Founding and the first official Trial of Founding by a freeborn aerospace fighter pilot. Watching the screens Angela subconsciously rubbed the third and fourth fingers on her left hand which had been replaced years ago following The Clawing Rite. She and members of her sibko had hunted a Ghost Bear on Strana Mechty armed with only spears. In order to lure out her prey she had severed the fingers as bait ever since she had rubbed the fingers during moments of thought.
Now she was thinking deeply as she watched freeborn fighter pilot Svenga piloting a Jengiz OmniFighter, a workhorse one-hundred-ton craft built by the Ghost Bears for the last eighty plus years, flying around some well-placed debris which had broken up the “space” giving the pilots some opportunities to break line of sight and turn the tables on their opponents. Already Svenga had defeated one pilot and had succeeded in founding the bloodname but now she was intent on defeating a second pilot enhancing the new Bloodhouses prestige coming around the wreckage she unloaded a weapons salvo on the enemy Sabutai shattering the back of the of the enemy OmniFighter and earning her second kill. With her second opponent Svenga turned her fighter towards the third and last opponent an incoming Scytha immediately the Jengiz was hit by a salvo of large lasers which exposed several armour weaknesses. As Scytha approached it added in its assault-class ultra-autocannon to the mix shattering the Jengiz armour punching into the fighter’s structure ending its fight. Showing her warrior spirit Svenga was returning fire even as she punched out of her stricken one-hundred-ton OmniFighter. Even with this defeat she had won her Trial, even if she had been crippled during the ejection process her DNA would be added to the Rasalhague Dominion’s breeding programs.
“Aerospace pilot Svenga have you survived? This is Khan Bekker” She asked using the Rasalhague’s communication system with a button beside the monitor.
“Aff Khan Bekker.” The pilot answered moments later even as a small craft approached the battle site to recover her.
“You have succeeded today, announce to all on this channel your name which will be entered into our Clans’ Remembrance and become our newest Bloodhouse.”
“I am Svenga Miraborg of Clan Ghost Bear and the Rasalhague Dominion.” She announced Khan Angela Bekker could “hear the smile” on her lips as she said her name. The name Miraborg would go around the Clans like wildfire it was a name that was already in the Clans’ during the Clan Invasion of the Inner Sphere a Free Rasalhague Republic aerospace fighter pilot had flown her aerospace fighter into the flagship of the ilKhan in a suicide run. The pilot had succeeded in killing herself but she had also killed the ilKhan of all the Clans and halting the invasion of the Inner Sphere for a year and her name was Tyra Miraborg. Svenga was not a descendant of Tyra but instead she was the descendant of a cousin of Tyra’s nevertheless the announcement of her name would make plenty of noise among the other Clans and the new pilot would immediately be called upon to answer this new attention.
Landing zone
Body 42, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
28th March 3118
The sky was filled with DropShips and small craft descending through the atmosphere of the world currently named as Body 42. These DropShips belonged to forces of Clan Smoke Jaguar, the defence force of the district, and of the forces of the former Amaris Empire in Exile. One of the DropShips had been deployed from the Exploration Vessel Spirit of Northumberland which had landed away from the other vessels. Now Captain Bruce Barnes approached Admiral Alessandra Schiavon the commander of the Amaris Empire in Exile forces. “Welcome to Body 42” he said
“It’s not a very pretty world” she said looking over the landscape the immediate area of the exiles landing around the equator was pleasant enough with fresh water streams and light shrub vegetation near the water. But beyond that the ground was largely frozen wastes possibly with mineral deposits which the recently landing forces could exploit if they discovered.
“But it is potentially yours, and it’s drone free” he said looking at the woman while she was ten years his senior, she was growing her blonde hair out since leaving her home space. She had also taken his advice and removed the Rim Worlds Republic emblem from her uniform’s left breast before today; as today she met Khan Petra Furey, the leader of the District of Lesnovo and of Clan Smoke Jaguar.
“Yes, it is” she agreed looking around “even this small amount of land will be enough to house our population. With some surface heaters, and greenhouse gas producers we could perhaps thicken the atmosphere and bring more life to this world, our sensors identified plenty of ice beyond the equator.”
“Ready to meet the Khan, quiaff?” He asked looking at her
“What is that word ‘quiaff?’” She asked not recognising it
“It’s a Clan word, you’ll want to learn them, even though Khan Furey and her people are former Clansmen and they hold to many of their traditions.” Barnes explained “they are the District’s little pets, we allow them to hold onto their traditions and pretend they are still Clan while really they are just a bunch of freebirths with delusions of grandeur.” He said
“But they rule the district?” The admiral asked seeing a hole in the captain’s suggestion immediately, the Khan was the ruler of the District and had final say if they gained control over the Body 42 star system.
“Through a vote, just like all things in the Free Worlds League Khan Furey played the system in our district and won the vote to lead. She can be removed by the same vote.” He explained trying to assure her that it was not a dictatorship
“And she accepts that?” Admiral Alessandra Schiavon asked “in our world your seniority gives you leadership and it is up to others to overthrow you. The power is granted based on the abilities you have previously shown. I gained mine by gunning down plenty of drones.” She said proudly even though it was an enemy they had created for themselves
“Khan Furey gained her position through combat; she won the vote for control over the district. I would be surprised if she would roll over and give up the position.” He noted the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser in orbit had been enough of an indication that the Smoke Jaguars would not simply roll over should they be challenged. “Now to meet the Khan” he said reaching out with his arm showing them the way they made their way through some of the brush towards the Khan’s DropShip landing zone. On their way infantry troopers and armoured vehicles guarded the path they group made their way through to the Khan’s party.
As they approached the Khan turned to face them Khan Petra Furey was a young woman surprising Admiral Schiavon, these Smoke Jaguars were clearly powerful and it appeared they did not discriminate on age, she nodded a greeting to the Khan who crossed her fist across her chest in a salute. “Welcome to Body 42” she said greeting them “Admiral, I would like to formally offer this world to your people…”
“Thank you, Khan, the people of…” Schiavon began interrupting the Khan before Furey spoke again.
“Admiral, we are willing to offer this world to your people in exchange for your assistance.”
“Our assistance? We are refugees and this world is uninhabited.” Schiavon pleaded not understanding what they could give them.
“Yes, this world is for now and without your agreement on an alliance with my people it will remain so.” Furey warned
“My people are refugees; we may have ships but we would never have even gotten this far without the assistance of the Spirit” she said turning towards Captain Barnes. “The supplies and fuel you provided us with was invaluable.” Barnes simply nodded “we have agreed to share our civilian vessels with your companies, the twenty-two Sub-Compact Cores will be invaluable.” In the time of the original Star League Sub-Compact Cores were used sparingly on very specialist ships. While the civilian ships that had been brought here were not very good space faring vessels but their component parts would be worth ten times their weight.
“Invaluable to the company that is able to exploit the technology, my Smoke Jaguars and the people of this district” Khan Petra Furey said she did not appear to be angry or frustrated by the Admiral’s suggestions to date. “It will also be in your best interests.”
“I am prepared to listen” she said weary from the struggle in their home systems and the trip.
“It is quite simple, should our District come under attack or be forced to act against an enemy your WarShips will assist in our military operations.” She explained “otherwise they may remain here, though we are willing to offer your vessels repairs and assistance.”
“Those are terms we can agree to” Admiral Schiavon agreed, they would have assisted in the district’s defences without being asked. “Once we have settled, we would expect a vote within the district’s system of legislation?” She asked looking at Captain Barnes who nodded.
“Of course, Admiral, once you are settled” Khan Furey said “and what will we be calling this system?” She asked believing that they would not want to keep the designation “Body 42”
“We will call this system Illion 2 after our previous home world.” She said Khan Furey nodded and agreed Illion 2 would not be a colony overnight but with the civilian ships they could make enough money to get the colony going and support their people. Meanwhile with three new WarShips added the District’s defence Khan Petra Furey could move ahead with other plans.
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There's a nice chunky update!
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Some of you may have noticed recently it was posted that JA Baker/Starbug is possibly no longer with us. I never met him but this timeline wouldn't have become as rich as it is if it was not for contributions like his so the last update is a little tribute going out on the ship he designed, plain sailing to him.
Cache Site #47A
Bearclaw, Society Territory
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
12th April 3118
The struggle to control the Clan Homeworlds continued between Clans Blood Spirit, Goliath Scorpion and the Society. Communities, entire cities had been shattered during the fighting with millions killed in the fighting in space and on the ground. Today Clan Goliath Scorpion’s Crimson Seeker Trinary were engaging Society forces on the world of Bearclaw, once a stronghold of the Rasalhague Dominion, searching for a weapons cache believed to date back to the founding of the Clans.
“Well, it looks like they beat us to it.” Star Captain Fiona Hernandez said sitting in her Summoner OmniMech.
“But they have not opened it yet which gives us an opportunity” Star Commander Edmund Baba the commander of their Battle Armour Star said. His suit was perched on the seventy-ton OmniMech’s shoulder while the rest of the star were arranged over the other four OmniMechs in their star. The Crimson Seeker Trinary had gone through many combinations in the past; often reduced to only a star in strength. Now the unit was a reinforced trinary with the OmniMechs and Elementals working together in a Nova formation, supporting them was a star of ProtoMechs, a star of armoured vehicles and a star of aerospace fighters. At present the aerospace fighters were chasing off Society craft leaving the ground forces to a fight alone.
“We will hit them in waves, Mechs and Battle Armour open the door, we kick them get their attention then Liz, you hit them from the left and at the same time Tyla hits them from the right.” She said bringing in the two sub-commanders no-one disagreed with her they knew she would listen if they suggested something but there was no need the society force, they were arrayed against were inferior in number and experience. “Attack!” She called out
The Mechs ran out of the trees and into the clearing beside the entrance to the underground cache. Fiona stopped her Summoner first the Elementals launching off the back of the OmniMech firing their short-range missiles as they jumped pounding a Society Septicemia OmniMech Fiona joined them with her large lasers pounding the fifty-five-ton design, honourable combat had gone from the homeworlds a long time ago. Now it was all about the remaining two Clans surviving against the Society and expanding their sphere of influence. So far, the Blood Spirits had reformed five galaxies worth of forces while the Goliath Scorpions had four but still the Society claimed control over the majority of the Homeworlds.
The other Mechs ran beyond her Summoner launching their battle armoured troops as they did. From the left the twenty-five ProtoMechs ran into the fray adding their firepower to the considerable to that of the OmniMechs and battle armoured troops. When the ten-vehicle strong star joined the battle, it was almost over Fiona’s targeted Septicemia was on the ground as was another enemy Mech, and three vehicles. The concentrated firepower of the entire force brought down the remaining Society forces in short order, an almost bloodless loss for the Goliath Scorpion force. The Clans would do everything in their power to continue to hold Bearclaw but the Society forces constantly tried to counter their rule.
---
It took them nearly three more hours to crack the codes and break into the cache. With most of the unit in position above ground Star Captain Fiona Hernandez led a few members of her team down into the facility armed with hand weapons and wearing clothing they’d stored onboard their Mechs. Although the cache had been lost from contact for centuries the systems of the cache still worked and lights began to come on for them as they entered “welcome to Star League Defence Force Cache #47 Alfa.” The female voice said as they entered, who had recorded the message none of them knew but they all knew it was one of their ancestors. A couple of them whispered words as they reached the bottom of the entrance ramp and the floodlighting which covered the main Mechbay came up. There were three rows each with at least a dozen BattleMechs standing in them, next were several rows of combat vehicles enough to outfit an entire combined arms regiment of BattleMechs and Armour. None of the equipment would be immediately ready for combat but each of them would contribute to the growing Goliath Scorpion forces. Walking along one of the rows of Mechs Fiona stopped in front of a Minsk, one of the first Ghost Bear BattleMechs. “This isn’t a Star League Cache; our Clans formed it.” She said around glancing to the side she saw a Pollux Heavy Tank and behind it was a Vali Close Artillery Support vehicle.
“Perhaps out Clans refilled it after the supplies the Exodus Army left here were exhausted. The Mechs here may have been surpassed by new designs but they were still potent. It would have been wasteful for them to be disassembled.” Edmund Baba said, he and his point of Elementals had joined them their suits now lacking the missile launchers which gave them their armour piercing punch but they still had heavier weapons than anything the Fiona and the others had. Edmund’s suit visor was open but his deep voice still boomed through the carnivorous room.
“It is a find worthwhile of our mission” MechWarrior William said he was very young to be within the command, one of the ristars of their Clan, the new generation who would replace Fiona Hernandez and others in time but not today.
“Aff, we need to maintain the perimeter until we can extract everything to the FOB” Fiona said “we’ll take it in shifts to maintain watch and to inspect what is down here.”
“Affirmative, Star Captain, what about searching for artifacts?” Tyla Myers asked her wheel chair joining them. Her spine had been broken in a Circle of Equals but instead of resigning from duty she had continued to fight for her Clan, even from the confines of her chair.
“We can make time for that as well; it is our duty.” Fiona Hernandez confirmed every member of the Trinary would be given an opportunity to take some trinkets from the cache on top of whatever else was salvaged.
Landing Zone G6, Cordia City Spaceport
Coromodir VI, Cordia City
Aurigan Collective, Periphery
19th April 3118
The spaceport beside Cordia City was a hive of activity with a constant stream of DropShips with supplies coming in and leaving. Coromodir VI was at the capitol of the Aurigan Collective and the most developed world by a long way but with everything coming through the planet even today was a special day walking out of one of the arriving DropShips was a fifty-five-ton Goshawk BattleMech, a Clan built nimble BattleMech capable of speeds near one hundred kilometres per hour and engaging in jumps of one hundred and fifty metres.
The Mech was painted grey, silver, and black in an arctic camouflage which made it stand out on the dry world of Coromodir on which most forces used forest or urban camouflage. The Goshawk stayed on the Mech paths heading from its DropShip into one of the hangers provided for visiting BattleMechs. The crews guided the MechWarrior into one of the bays and a raising gantry moved up beside the cockpit the MechWarrior stepped out of the back of his BattleMech onto the gantry which moved away from the cockpit and slowly descended towards the ground.
Stepping off the gantry the MechWarrior was dressed in a simple jumpsuit “Colonel Strum Kintaro” he said to the technician who stood at the bottom “the Storm Raiders. I am here to see Lady Kamea Arano to negotiate a new contract.”
“Welcome to Coromodir, Colonel, you are expected there is a ground transport waiting for you.” Strum nodded, he looked at the BattleMech one more time then left heading for the vehicle. He had negotiated contracts several times in his fifty-eight years with the unit after working his way up from being a simple MechWarrior to commander of the combined-arms regiment but he could feel it in his bones, this might be the last time that he’d command the unit in a negotiation. Sturm was seventy-nine years old and he was ready for his retirement this place was as far from Kore, the world he joined the Storm Raiders, that he could get and he’d make sure that the unit was well taken care of for today.
Throne Room, Steiner Palace
Triad, Tharkad
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
21st April 3118
Within the Throne Room of the Steiner Royal Palace Archon Jessica Steiner said on the throne in front of the two Hauptmann OmniMechs which stood guard ready to engage any hostiles. Traditionally the throne room had two Griffins standing guard but as they carried long range weaponry Jessica had elected to change them for the ninety-ton OmniMechs. Both had been configured to be lethal close quarters fighters guaranteeing that nothing would survive an assault against the throne room.
Today there were no such threats however as Archon Jessica Steiner was meeting with the Commonwealth’s highest-ranking officials General of Armies Sabine Steiner and Fleet Admiral Samuel Wyn-Morris. “Archon, we wish to change the Commonwealth’s naval doctrine to combat the heavier WarShips the Clans are now fielding.” Samuel Wyn-Morris began “while the most effective and wise choice would be to employ nuclear weapons against such targets, we do not know how the Clans would react to a mass use of such weapons.” He explained while on a planet the use of nuclear weapons was frowned upon by every civilized nation in space the rules were slightly different, it was acceptable for them to be used against WarShips but rarely was such methods employed instead slugging matches were more common.
“We will not become the first nation to test that theory.” Archon Jessica Steiner answered
“Of course, not Archon, instead we are suggesting using a different method.” Wyn-Morris said “instead we propose a different strategy. The Lyran Commonwealth currently deploys ten Battle-cruiser or Battleship classed vessels, four of these ships are deployed as part of the Isle of Skye’s command and outwith this plan the other six are under our direct command.” He said the devolved military of the Isle of Skye operated independently from Tharkad. “Our proposal is that we deploy all six of these vessels in two squadrons with all other ships operating in support squadrons. With this concentration of firepower, we can overwhelm any Clan WarShip we encounter ensuring space superiority.”
“An interesting proposal we have employed exclusively assault class designs together before on the ground but in space?” Sabine Steiner wondered “won’t that leave our other ships vulnerable to being overwhelmed?”
“Not if we deploy our vessels correctly and have good intelligence backups.” Wyn-Morris said “my second proposal is that any shipyard capable of deploying Battleships and Battle-cruisers does so. Any other class being constructed should be completed but afterwards we only construct new Battleships and Battle-cruisers.”
“An all or nothing strategy” Jessica Steiner suggested “we have ten other WarShips not including scout vessels and Merchant vessels. They could complete normal patrol and guard duties.”
“Because some of our shipyards, such as Coventry are incapable of building anything larger than a Light Cruiser we will have a steady supply of lighter WarShips to fill the ranks of our patrol squadrons. While the Battle-cruisers and Battleships produced will fill out the front-line squadrons and allow us to form other ones.” He said confident in the plan “this way we can counter the Clan threat and push back any WarShip offensive short of a Rasalhague Dominion Leviathan. For that we’d need something else, probably nuclear weapons.” He finished the presentation; the Leviathan was a beast of a design of a WarShip but fortunately the Ghost Bears were the least aggressive of the Clans which operated on their borders.
“We will try out this proposal” Jessica Steiner said she was a pilot at heart and on at least one level agreed with the Fleet Admiral, sometimes firepower was needed to counter firepower and the number of guns you could bring to a fight mattered, nothing could bring more guns than a Battleship or Battle-cruiser.
Conference Room, FSS Pegasus (Columbia-class Battleship)
New Avalon, New Avalon Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
29th April 3118
The New Avalon system was always a hive of activity but today there was a special cruise taking place. The FSS Pegasus and the FSS Courageous cruised through the system heading for New Avalon itself the ancient Columbia-class Battleship and the brand-new Courageous-class Strike Cruiser moved together at a steady 1G acceleration.
Deep within the FSS Pegasus First Prince Burton Davion and Duchess Sterling Davion along with their son Duke Luther Davion stood in front of the collected press of the Federated Suns along with the last captain of the ship all four were dressed in the full-dress uniform of the AFFS. “Today is a very special occasion for our nation, for the centuries long Succession Wars naval combat fell from people’s minds as the technology was lost. The recovery of the Helm Memory Core and the return of the Clans saw the return of WarShips to the Inner Sphere.” Burton said he knew many eyes would have gone onto Sterling at that moment with her history in the Snow Raven Clan. “The Federated Suns was able to restore many vessels to its fleet which had been held in storage until the time we were able to repair them.” He said “the Pegasus was one of those ships, she served the Federated Suns into the First Succession War and she has served us for sixty-seven years since her reactivation.” He said “a ship with such a storied history does not simply go to the breakers yard and fade into history. It has been decided that the Pegasus, while unable to serve in a military fashion due to age and fatigue, she will continue to serve our nation as a museum in orbit of New Avalon. She will be used as an educational tool for future generations.” He said stepping aside to make way for Duchess Sterling Davion.
“For all of the differences that the Clans now have with the Inner Sphere, they too remember and honour the service of vessels which have served for many years.” She said bringing a different perspective “there are WarShips in the Clans fleets which have been maintained since the days of the Star League and continue to serve in different capacities. Since I came to the Federated Suns, I like many others have launched an aerospace fighter from this ship’s decks, she carried me to where I could serve the Federated Suns like she has carried thousands of others over the years. This ship and all who have sailed with her have done so with honour, and they should always be remembered.” She said standing aside making way for her son Luther Davion.
Unlike Burton and Sterling, he looked uncomfortable in the uniform but knew his duty and had agreed to this “while we cannot forget the Pegasus’ service today, we also celebrate the beginning of a new journey with the FSS Courageous joining the Federated Suns’ Navy.” As he spoke the monitor behind them activated showing the almost dagger shaped vessel which flew alongside the Pegasus. “She is the first of the new Courageous Strike Cruiser-class, a design which originally is as old as the Pegasus, and is hoped she will serve our nation far into the future.” He said as the FSS Courageous banked to port and up away from the Pegasus Burton then stepped aside allowing the last captain of the Pegasus to step up.
“My name is Vice-Admiral J. A. Baker, I am the Commander of this vessel, and I have served on this ship for the last twenty years.” He said “I have led this ship and her crew into many battles and it has been my honour to see many sons and daughters of the Federated Suns serve with distinction from her decks. Today is a special one for me as I am also retiring from the service of the AFFS. This old girl and I have done our duty, and we must never forget why we fight, and who we fight for, many people have died for the freedoms we cherish. It is unfortunate but it is the call that we have all answered time and again.” He said behind him Luther Davion watched him carefully as the old Admiral came to attention and saluted the cameras “Attention! And salute!” He commanded out of reflex every member of the AFFS in the room including the First Princes party saluted in unison the Admiral then did a perfect standing turn towards First Prince Burton Davion. “To the Honour of the Federated Suns!” He called out “Long live House Davion!” He finished around the room the words were repeated quite loudly, outside the room they could hear the chant be repeated by other members of the crew who had been close enough, their chants were then repeated throughout the ship as she made her last journey approaching New Avalon into retirement.
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Several hours later the First Princes party visited Admiral Baker’s quarters deep inside the mighty WarShip. “Sire, welcome to… my home” he said showing them into the group of compartments. The Pegasus was such a large vessel that the commander, senior staff, and some visitors were afforded a set of compartments which included a lounge, a small kitchen area, bed and toilet facilities. Entering the room First Prince Burton Davion realized that Admiral Baker’s quarters resembled that of an those that could be found on an old sea going vessel with many wood furnishings and various mementos which the Admiral had acquired over the years each of them was secured to the furniture or into cabinets to save them from drifting around the room when the ship wasn’t under thrust. “How can I be of service?”
“You’ve given plenty service, Admiral, I just wanted to ask what your retirement plans were?” Burton asked heading over to one of the couches in the room, Sterling Davion joined him there while their son Lucian continued to look around the quarters.
“My wife is closing down our assets on Galax then she’ll join me on New Avalon.” The Admiral answered sitting opposite them “I’ve never been one for planetary connections, I like space too much.”
“I know that feeling” Sterling Davion said, she had spent so much of her life in space with the Ravens, she’d tried to stay in the air or space since coming to the Federated Suns.
“A year or two ago we bought ourselves an old KR-61 Long range shuttle, we’ve done her up a little she’s old but she’ll do the job, we plan on visiting some family around the Federated Suns, before going into the Protectorate and onto the Lyran Commonwealth. My wife was originally from the Commonwealth so we’ll track down a couple of her old stomping grounds.” He said the KR-61 was an in-system vessel capable of transporting two people from a planet to a JumpShip in basic comfort.
“I will provide you with the Courageous, she’ll need to go on a journey to test her systems, she can be your escort.”
“Thank you, Sire, for your generous offer” the Admiral said looking uncomfortable “unfortunately I must decline. I have spent forty years in space on various ships of the Federated Suns Navy. My wife has joined me several times onboard, she wants to enjoy our retirement away from the navy.” He said “we’re going to dock with passenger DropShips and JumpShips and pay to use their facilities, live a life in luxury.”
“Quite right too” Sterling agreed with the choice, she’d never retire as the wife of the First Prince but she could understand the sentiment.
“Then I’ll offer you a compromise” Burton suggested “ask your wife to delay your departure by a couple of weeks” he said “on New Avalon I have an Ares Mark IX Attack Craft which was gifted to my family by Universal Air. It’s been extensively modified into an executive transport for two.” He said glancing at Sterling who nodded “I’m willing to offer you the use of the ship, and allow you to travel in safety and luxury.” He offered him.
“Thank you, Sire, that is very kind of you.” The old admiral said smiling at the thought an Ares would be quite an upgrade over their old shuttle and would give them the freedom. “I accept.”
“We’ll also purchase your old shuttle” Lucian said Burton glanced over at his son “the Admiral can use the money enjoy his time off.”
“Why would you buy the old Starbug?” He asked surprised by the offer
“I agree” Burton said nodding to his son as he stood up.
“As do I, thank you all, this means a lot.” The Admiral said raising from his own chair meeting the First Prince’s extended hand shaking it. “I guess we’ll have a new Starbug for our trip.”
“Your service has been welcome” First Prince Burton Davion said “you should enjoy your retirement as should the Pegasus, you’ve both done well.”
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Some of you may have noticed recently it was posted that JA Baker/Starbug is possibly no longer with us. I never met him but this timeline wouldn't have become as rich as it is if it was not for contributions like his so the last update is a little tribute going out on the ship he designed, plain sailing to him.
Nicely done, I'm sure JA Baker/Starbug would be honored.
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Aftermath, Rest and Refit
Kirkenlaard, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
8th May 3118
Following an unsuccessful attempt to wrest control over Gallatin the mercenary units Kay’s Jokers and Jacob’s Juggernauts were licking their wounds. Colonel Tassa Kay convinces the remains of the Juggernauts to join her jokers filling out their third and fourth battalions bringing the Jokers up to a reinforced Combined-arms Regiment in strength.
Basecamp, Brotherhood of Randis
Molokai, District of Bowang
Free Worlds League
17th May 3118
Thirty years had passed since the Brotherhood of Randis had regained its independence from Clan Nova Cat. During that time the Brotherhood had accepted contracts throughout the periphery with the Taurian Concordat, Magistracy of Canopus, Cirincus Federation, Zeta Quadrant, and various independent worlds. From the twelve warriors who had left Hope (Randis) retreating from the Nova Cat advance only eight of the original members remained but Grand-Knight Amy Frews had accepted new Knight-errants from many of their contracts and the unit was now able to field three full binaries of BattleMechs, Armour and Infantry. Small contracts in the periphery were not enough to keep the unit going so they had finally accepted an Inner Sphere contract replacing Jacob’s Juggernauts on Molokai garrisoning the world for the District of Bowang.
The base they occupied could support an entire regiment instead of the short battalion that the Brotherhood currently fielded. They had powered up some of the facility leaving other parts inactive Grand-Knight Amy Frews walked over the exercise yard and entered the Mechbay standing in front of her Nova Cat OmniMech. She hated what the Mech stood for and what the Brotherhood had lost since being part of the Clan and their subsequent retreat across the periphery but she could not deny what it was capable of in the field of battle. The OmniMech like every other unit in the Brotherhood of Randis’ current TO&E was painted blue with silver highlights.
Her waist mounted comm unit beeped for attention and she reached down “Go ahead”
“Grand-Knight, we have a visitor at the gate the Loremaster of Clan Smoke Jaguar who occupy territory in the District of Bowang. He wishes to speak to you.”
“Damned Clanners” she said angrily looking at the Nova Cat OmniMech one more time “are you going to kill more of them today?” She asked the silent giant. She turned and left the Mechbay quickly heading back across the exercise yard to the main gates “Jimmy, Open up the gates!” She shouted as the approached the doors cranked and banged as the slowly swung open, she would have to get those looked at and repaired.
The gate opened revealing a tall well-muscled man wearing a black and red uniform with what looked like clawed fingers reaching over the left shoulder and extending towards the middle of the breast of the jacket. “Welcome to Molokai, I am Grand-Knight Amy Frews of the Brotherhood of Randis, we have taken garrison of this base for the District of Bowang.”
“Thank you, my name is Loremaster Algoth Beckett, I am of the same genetic stock as Lucas Beckett the former Grand-Knight of your order and I wish to speak to you.” He said Grand-Knight Lucas Beckett replaced Amy Frews grand-father as commander of the Brotherhood of Randis. Algoth Beckett was a large man with long hair which extended down over his shoulders his clothing appeared to made of various layers of leather while the forearms of were covered in brown fur. “I understand that your unit has many former members of Clan Nova Cat within it, quiaff?” He asked Algoth Beckett remained at the outside of the gate looking in.
“Yes, there are eight members of our unit active since our independence from Clan Nova Cat. A two of them can chart their service back to when they were members of your Clan.” She said while she hated that her Brotherhood had become part of the Nova Cats, she would not ignore their accomplishments.
“There are Jaguars here on this base?”
“Two” Amy Frews answered proudly “Cray and Ukra both served as members of your Smoke Jaguars before their fall, then as members of the Brotherhood of Randis, of Clan Nova Cat and now as members of the Brotherhood once more.”
“Impressive” Algoth admitted “which is why I am here Grand-Knight, I want to offer the former clansmen of your unit a chance at immortality. The combat experience of your unit is well known to my fellow Clansmen but we may not be known to you. For the last few years, we have slowly been rebuilding our strength within the Free Worlds League, we are not becoming the Smoke Jaguars we once were nor do we have the resources our people once have.”
“What is this about immortality?”
“We would like to offer your former Clansmen a chance of having their DNA added to our breeding program.” He offered
“Why?” she asked the warrior
“We are short on resources” he stated simply “including DNA. While we could take it from the warriors that have fought with us as we have rebuilt, having true Clan DNA in our program will give our next generations an edge.” He explained
“What will they be expected to do?”
“Simply provide us with a sample of DNA, and become part of something bigger.” The clansman offered.
“I will speak with the warriors.” Amy Frews offered “you will not enter this base Loremaster.”
“I understand, I will return to my transport and wait.” He said turning away heading over to a waiting Indra Infantry Transport.
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Almost an hour later a single LGB-10V Longbow BattleMech approached the Indra. “I am Cray Rabbit of Clan Smoke Jaguar.” The MechWarrior said he was ancient for a clan-born MechWarrior at least in his eighties, his head was completely bald his hair having long ago left him, he walked with the aid of a cane but inside a BattleMech he was as capable as any others. “The other MechWarriors have agreed to provide you with a giftake, but I challenge you to accept my Trial of Founding.” He said using the term which recently came into use on Tukayyid. The Smoke Jaguars were not part the Clan Council on Tukayyid but it was a challenge he hoped they could not turn down. “I was born to this Clan, I am Trueborn within the Smoke Jaguars and I have survived when hundreds of others have failed, I will be remembered.”
“If you think you are capable of the challenge, we will accept your Trial of Founding.” Algoth Beckett replied from onboard the Indra “I will have three of my MechWarriors approach, when you see them, you may begin when ready.”
Soon after three BattleMechs approached a Phoenix Hawk PXH-3M, a Ostol OTL-5M and a Prefect PRF-1C approached three House Marik designs each of which carried the Eagle Crest of House Marik and the stalking smoke jaguar of Clan Smoke Jaguar. Immediately Cray Rabbit opened fire with his twin twenty-tube long range missile launchers targeting the Phoenix Hawk the forty missiles flew between the two BattleMechs as a coat of metal and flame. The Phoenix Hawk lifted its right arm the anti-missile system which shot down several of the missiles but the rest slammed into BattleMech exploding all over the Mech’s right arm shattering it into two parts the hand and the weapons mounted there were torn to pieces. The rest of the missiles slammed into the rest of the arm and torso destroying the remains of the right arm staggering the forty-five-ton BattleMech backwards keeping the pilot on the backfoot. Cray Rabbit did not waste time instead he opened fire with the two small long range missile launchers as well adding in another ten missiles striking the Phoenix Hawk’s legs.
To the Phoenix Hawk pilots credit the pilot kept the BattleMech on its feet and ran it to the right of the Longbow firing the BattleMech’s extended-range large laser. The red coloured beam cut across the Longbow’s armoured chest as the Phoenix Hawk continued to run. Cray Rabbit tracked his enemy twisting the BattleMech’s torso and legs to walk and track the lighter Mech both torso lasers opened fire one burned down the right torso of the enemy Mech while the other completely missed its mark. The Phoenix Hawk jumped into the air avoiding another volley of forty long range missiles the BattleMech jumped towards the Longbow Cray opened fire with the smaller racks catching the jumping Mech mid-air causing minor damage. The Phoenix Hawk pilot spun on the spot and unleashed two medium pulse lasers into the back of the Longbow at the same time Cray triggered both rear mounted lasers on his Longbow at near point-blank range the lasers could not miss and both bore into the enemy Mech’s chest burning a large hole in its damaged chest. The Phoenix Hawk pilot jumped away but Cray was already turning targeting the retreating BattleMech he did not give the enemy pilot time to react engaging it with both large long range missile racks. A little over half of the missiles struck the back of the Phoenix Hawk mid-air the Mech lost control and lost power mid-way through the jump landing flat on its face out of the fight Cray had been successful.
But one victory was not enough he twisted the BattleMech’s torso and unleashed a volley of missiles at the Ostol, the sixty ton BattleMech’s anti-missile system swatted several of the missiles from the sky while the rest blanketed the accelerating BattleMech. The short distance between the two Mechs was covered quickly by the Ostol and a pulse laser barrage from the Mech savaged Cray’s Longbow’s torso the pulse blasts punching into the armour burning deeply. Cray’s Mech was built to support others from a distance and not for close range combat he triggered the smaller five tube but the Ostol was moving too fast instead Cray twisted the Longbow to track the Ostol hitting it with the paired medium lasers one of which burned into the lighter Mech while the other missed widely. Cray continued to track the enemy BattleMech and unleashed another volley from the two large missile racks but the pilot had anticipated it and had already changed his Mech’s movement planting the Mech’s foot and twisting towards the Longbow. The Ostol unleashed a volley of pulse laser blasts which tore into the Longbow’s torso the pilot’s weapons targeted on one particular spot caused heavy damage to the Mech destroying one of the smaller missile racks which caused a minor explosion on the Mech’s torso.
Cray’s Mech recoiled from the hit but he regained control quickly unleashing another volley of missiles but the Ostol’s anti-missile system cut down many of the missiles before they reached their target. The Ostol’s larger pulse lasers slammed into the Longbow in return fire the pulse lasers exploited the whole already made in the Longbow’s armour penetrating deeply into the hull of the assault BattleMech. Inside the torso there was a deep ammunition bay for the long-range missiles, the impact of the pulse laser blast caused the missiles to cook off causing an explosion which tore through the Longbow’s torso consuming it in fire. Out of the growing inferno Cray’s ejector seat flew high into the sky propelling him away from the doomed BattleMech.
---
Several hours later Cray laid on a medical gurney inside the base. Loremaster Algoth Beckett was escorted into the room by one of the Brotherhood who remained at the door. Algoth Beckett towered over the gurney looking down at Cray. The ejection from the Longbow had not been good for Cray first the ammunition explosion from inside his BattleMech had sent a neural feedback shock into his brain and then his left side had been shattered by an impact and given his age his prognoses for recover was not good.
“You succeeded Cray Rabbit in gaining the Smoke Jaguars respect and regaining your honour.” Algoth said placing a MechWarrior pin in his right-hand which Cray gripped down on “at seventy-two years of age I believe you are perhaps the oldest MechWarrior our people have granted the title bloodnamed to since our foundation, though the records are a little spotty.” He said giving Cray a proud smile “your name will be remembered in our Clan, it is the name you have been known as for most of your life, Cray Rabbit and you will be remembered as the founder of that name.” Cray was unable to speak due to his injuries simply smiled, to most of the members of his unit giving up his life for an honour battle would sound like a waste but Cray had lived a long time and the honour of being remembered by the Smoke Jaguar Clan forever was something he could not give up. Several hours later Cray Rabbit, eighty-two-year-old founder of the Rabbit Bloodhouse passed away from his injuries but his name would be remembered by both the Brotherhood of Randis and by Clan Smoke Jaguar.
Special Forces insertion
Herndon, Clan Lynx Occupation Zone
22nd May 3118
“Alright troops if any of you enjoy a show you might want to switch on your external feeds as we’re a few seconds from drop” the Hiryo Infantry Scout’s pilot said in the infantry bay there were four Kage battle armour suited troopers. Beside the black painted Hiryo in the bay was a second identical vehicle with the same cargo, the DropShip was buffeted by the wind as the doors opened in mid-air. “Here comes the fun bit!” The pilot announced as first one Hiryo and then the second were pushed out of the DropShip’s cargo bay.
Both forty-ton Wing-in-ground-effect (WiGE) vehicles hit the air and dropped like a stone. The Hiryo like all WiGE vehicles were designed to operate close to the ground using a cushion of air to stay aloft but despite having pair of high wings and an aerodynamic chassis they were not designed to operate at high altitude. The battle armoured troopers inside the DropShip were given a treat as the two Hiryo’s dived straight downwards “we need to get below radar fast hang on!” The two Hiryos continued to plummet towards the ground when they crossed five hundred metres a parachute deployed from the rear of the WiGEs slowing their fall then at three hundred metres the rear parachute fell away from the craft and two more deployed from the top of both vehicles. These parafoils brought the two vehicles level as they continued to fall their weight ensuring they continued to fall at pace. At a little over one hundred metres the two craft started their fusion engines and blew away from the parafoils disappearing into Herndon’s undergrowth in opposite directions their mission to disrupt Clan Lynx’s hold on the planet.
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On the other side of the Draconis Combine the six Ryuken Regiments deployed against Clan Snow Raven with two regiments each targeting Dnieper, Prinis Prime and Risin. With two elite/veteran units hitting each planet the ground forces are overwhelmed and in the Risin system the Snow Raven WarShip Pheonix, a Spartan-class Cruiser, was destroyed by Draconis Combine WarShips. In the Dnieper system the Draconis Combine vessel DCS Kashima, a Kirishima II-class Cruiser, was destroyed by the Snow Raven Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser Eden Rose. With no vehicle or BattleMech production facilities and minimal Snow Raven population in the three systems the Snow Ravens withdraw deeper into their territory.
Raid in force
Zeta Quadrant
Periphery
28th May 3118
After years of allowing the Zeta Quadrant worlds to exist on their border the Cirincus Federation launches an assault against the planets intent on bringing the Quadrant into the Federation forcefully. Deploying four regiments of troops to the four worlds Cirincus believes that it will be a walk over due to the Quadrant lacking significant defences. On all four worlds the Cirincus attack is stopped by multiple lances of Star League-era Royal BattleMechs which steamroll the attacking forces seizing the salvage and their DropShips. In all The Damned, Cirincus MechWorks, The Hateful Survivors, and the Keystone Gang are all wiped out to the man by the defenders of Zeta Quadrant.
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Mandrill Collective update for 3118
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/mandrill-collective-update-3118/ (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/mandrill-collective-update-3118/)
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Carrying on with the timeline proper now with the first part a race featuring the Vector Storm motorcycle from TRO Lancaster (Thank you to the creator and the permission to use it)
This update sets us down a course I've wanted to investigate for a long time - thankfully James Tanaga gave me an idea when discussing the Fire Mandrills current predicament and Clan Smoke Jaguar gave me the motivation for it (let's have some fun)
First Race of Solaris Racing League
Exhibition Track, Dunnet Forest
Solaris, Independent Clan Space
3rd June 3118
The coming of the Clans to Solaris had initially caused nothing but trouble for the Mech circuits and all the other sports based on the planet but that was not the case in recent years. With the Clans and Star League Defence Force essentially sharing responsibility for the system everything was becoming more popular and that could not be truer than with the Solaris Racing League (SRL). Following the smash success of the first season it had been decided that before the season began a high-performance racing aircraft would race against a Dreadnaught Interstellar Industries two wheeled Vector Storm V High Performance Motorcycle. As the aircraft of the SRL were powered internal combustion engines it had been decided to use the enthusiast’s motorcycle instead of the pure racing fusion powered model the VI. The spectacle was to promote the SRL but also the league’s sponsor Dreadnaught which would be putting on their own shows across the planet in conjunction with every race intending on promoting their civilian, support and military equipment across the planet.
Before the race there was an aerial display from a group of ten turbine propelled aircraft from Noisiel. The exhibition team “Spiraling Zeros” fly a half red half white aircraft and put on some stunning flying displays above the crowds before the race even begins filling the air with multi-coloured streams of air. These aircraft were far smaller than the aircraft used in the SRL and they were a throwback to some sort of ancient design.
The race itself was a simple affair Koskova Yartseva in her HL-15 Hellfish Light Attack Fighter would fly the regular Dunnet Forrest track with the Yartseva showing the crowd what they could expect when the actual race happened after while the Vector Storm which was designed to travel faster than the aircraft and at continue cruising at high speed would race around a longer track which went around the forest with its progress broadcast to all crowds on massive Tri-vid screens. The Vector Storm and its driver Martha Alberchtsen were coloured blue and white while the aircraft was painted bright green setting the two apart.
The lights went green and the two racers took off on their respective race Martha Alberchtsen was hallway along its raceway while the Hellfish banked and turned around the twisty course through the forest. On the screens the progress of the two exhibition racers were broadcast to an excited crowd as the motorcycle reached the half way point it was ahead of Yarseva exited Nevis Tunnel entering the Hillhead Stadium to a cheering crowd. The Dreadnaught built Vector Storm was slightly ahead as it moved under the Interstate Highway 16 and began to climb up over Ben Hob this played to Hellfish’s advantage as it did not have to travel up the hill instead continuing its flight.
The Vector Storm entered the final stage of the race ahead of the Hellfish entering a modified Janet Porter Stadium the Hellfish banked above the motorcycle as it moved around the tight corners of the stadium having to move at a slower speed than the aircraft bringing the two to a near photo finish with the Hellfish moving across the finish line seconds before the Vector Storm.
Council of Clan Smoke Jaguar
Jaguar’s Howl, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
9th June 3118
While the reborn elements of Clan Smoke Jaguar held territory throughout the District of Lesnovo their primary holdings remained on Twin Sons in their capital city which had been built in the equatorial sector of the planet. There more than one million men, women and children lived most of whom had been born in the District of Lesnovo or the greater Free Worlds League and flocked to the banner of Clan Smoke Jaguar. Some would learn from the Clansmen and become warriors within the Clan while others would serve its growing worker, scientific and merchant castes unlike the original Clan Smoke Jaguar the current Clan allowed these castes to follow their own paths as long as they benefited the Clan.
Today all members of the Clan’s Bloodnamed castes had traveled to Twin Sons after being summoned there by Khan Petra Furey. None of the warriors could miss the green and gold painted Arbitration-class Battleship Arbitration which served as the flagship of the fleet which was based out of Tukayyid and served as the Loremaster of the Clans personal transport. The Arbitration could engage and destroy almost any other WarShip in known space with a good chance of victory and nothing the reborn Smoke Jaguars had could destroy the vessel.
For weeks the Smoke Jaguars streamed back onto Twin Sons making their way to Jaguar’s Howl finally entering the Hall of Clan Smoke Jaguar on the required date. The Hall of Clan Smoke Jaguar was a perfect circle and had five tiers of seating which went higher with each tier the lowest ranking Bloodnamed would be furthest from the centre and the higher ranks would be the closest. Microphones and speakers were built into the entire building so any warrior who wished to be heard could be. Today standing in the centre of the room stood Khan Petra Furey dressed in the ceremonial uniform which was grey with the Smoke Jaguar crest on its chest, a black belt and black knee-high boots the uniform’s full cape was also grey on the outside with red underneath while on her head Khan Furey wore the head of a Smoke Jaguar, the face of the snarling car above her own. Beside her stood a shorter woman wearing a similar uniform but this one coloured green on her head she wore the head of a Wolf, the Clan she had come from.
“This is Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward” Petra Furey said introducing the other woman to the Clan’s elite warriors “she has traveled her from Tukayyid to address the elite warriors of Clan Smoke Jaguar. Listen to her” she commanded them.
“I am Sandra Ward; I was born a Wolf but I now serve as the Loremaster of the Clans and of the Clan Council which is held on Tukayyid.” She said “Tukayyid was the Clan’s greatest failure, where our invasion ended, now it is our greatest triumph a world held equally by all of the Inner Sphere and periphery Clans.” She stepped around the room looking up at the assembled Smoke Jaguar warriors “your greatest failure came after Tukayyid when your Clan died” she snarled looking at them all “the Smoke Jaguars ceased to be, annihilated by the Inner Sphere here and in the Homeworlds, joining the ranks of the fallen Clans.” She taunted almost daring them to challenge her to a Circle of Equals “but that was not the end of Clan Smoke Jaguar.” She continued “somehow your people, your ideals survived and now you are on the cusp of your greatest triumph. Cast off the dressing your Clan has collected, come to Tukayyid, reclaim your place within the Clan Council.”
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A week had passed since Sandra Ward, the Loremaster of the Clans, had made her challenge to Clan Smoke Jaguar and the debate between the Bloodnamed warriors was continuing. Some of the warriors were angry that the Loremaster had challenged them to abandon their position in the District of Lesnovo and Free Worlds League while other Clans like the Mandrill Collective, Rasalhague Dominion and Raven Alliance had been allowed to maintain their connections to their partner realms and join the council. Unfortunately for the Smoke Jaguars as Ward had explained in each case the Clan force was the dominant one, should the Clan decide the realm they were part of would cease to be, the Jaguars were not in that position with the Free Worlds League. To rejoin the other Clans the Jaguars had to prove that it could stand on its own feet.
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A week later the debate still raged between the members of the Bloodnamed council with no clear favourite in sight. In her private office inside the Hall of Clan Khan Petra Furey spoke with her saKhan Vanik Ismiril who towered over her as she hatched a plan to sway her Clan to her line of thinking. Born to an Elemental Sibko Ismiril like all of the genetically modified infantry troopers of the Clans was taller than any MechWarrior could ever be, his muscles literally had muscles and there were few equals to him in hand-to-hand combat. Vanik’s dark skin was virtually hairless something he prided himself on maintaining it regularly.
“They will not miss me immediately. The District’s politicians can run things day to day and the Clan is busy building up its forces and strongholds within this territory.” She explained to him “once they do realize I have been gone too long there will be no choice but to reveal that I am no longer within the District.”
“At which point you will likely lose control over the District” Vanik boomed “I do not have the pool to maintain that for our Clan.” Petra Furey was a power of nature she was charismatic enough to sway many non-Clansmen to their cause.
“A necessary sacrifice” she said “you may be able to maintain control over the Clan however and with our enclaves across the District we will still hold some sway with the people of Lesnovo. They allowed us into their space now we can take advantage of it.” She said viciously smirking “use the people of Illion to help maintain security in the region, I will be taking the Streaking Mist, we will likely need her firepower.”
“But to turn to them, why make such a call?”
“Symbolism, our great rivalry put to bed for all to see once the truth is revealed our people together bringing what others have only dreamed.” She said wistfully “the Loremaster said we needed to make a symbolic gesture to regain our position. She was right we do and what better one for our people and all Clan peoples, it will win us support where we otherwise would not receive it.”
“And you believe they can be swayed, Quiaff?”
“Aff, outsiders far from the fight for Terra their Khan needs a symbol just as we do, we can prove that anything is possible I believe he will buy into that.”
“And if he does not?”
“Then I die, and the Smoke Jaguar continues.” She replied in a matter-of-fact way “this exhibition will not end our Clan but it could inspire its future. Just keep the Jaguars on the prowl until I return” Petra Furey commanded her saKhan.
Training Mission
Dentieth Pass, Dustina
Arcturus, Clan Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
14th June 3118
The green painted customized Timber Wolf cut through the formation of Hell’s Horses troopers but the OmniMech was not part of the scenario and its pilot was intent on killing as many of the Horses troopers as possible with its pulse lasers while calling in artillery barrages with its TAG laser. Behind the Timber Wolf laid three of its gutted lancemates while a second lance of a Catapult, Adder, Ebon Jaguar and Shadow Hawk remained active in support. In the air a Hawk Moth VTOL, Verwandlung, buzzed the Hell’s Horses formation.
Tearing their way into the Clan unit the Timber Wolf targeted a Mars Assault Tank which held the commander of the unit. From one of the Hell’s Horses units paired particle cannon shots flew high above the Timber Wolf tearing through the air into the Verwandlung tearing the back of the aircraft off completely. In the cockpit of the Timber Wolf Dominic Nostra turned to see the VTOL spin out of control and disappear over a hill exploding in a ball of flames in the trees beyond, this contract had already been too costly he turned the Timber Wolf back onto the Mars lining up the TAG Laser but as he did a pair of gauss rifles savaged the left side of the OmniMech. “You son of a…” he cursed twisting his OmniMech onto the vehicle, an Athena Heavy Tank and unleashed a volley of pulse blasts.
The Athena took the attack and replied with two more gauss shots one fortunately missed the damaged Timber Wolf but the other slammed into the Bounty Hunter’s OmniMech just below the cockpit. Lasers, missiles and autocannon slugs slammed into the Timber Wolf from the Mars Assault Tank causing damage all over the OmniMech as an artillery barrage from the Catapult consumed the Athena. As it did a gauss rifle shot from the Athena tore through the head of the Bounty Hunter’s Shadow Hawk killing the red painted BattleMech’s pilot instantly.
“The Bounty Hunter won’t fall today” Nostra said turning his Mech’s torso savaging the side torso of a Fire Falcon OmniMech. He then continued his turn and fired more shots into the Mars which sat at the centre of the formation but the large assault tank had kept its front armour towards him and the thick armour held firm.
“MechWarrior continue your assault; we are on our way to assist!” Another transmission broke in from the Timber Wolf’s left flanking both the Bounty Hunter and the enemy Mars came a fifty-ton green and black painted Chalchiutotlin Urban Assault Vehicle its pulse laser and missiles engaging the heavier Mars but striking its weaker rear armour.
“Identify yourself!” Nostra demanded firing more pulse shots into the weakening Mars
“Arcturus Resistance, we may need a lift after this though!”
“You’re paying for your travel right now.” Nostra confirmed guiding an artillery shell from the Catapult down on top of the Mars. The vehicle was consumed in fire from the artillery shell as pulse laser fire from the Bounty Hunter and the resistance vehicle continued to pound the vehicle. As pulse lasers burned through the armour of the Mars. “Mission complete let’s go, resistance stay close.”
As they retreated through the formation of Hell’s Horses the Chalchiuhtotolin’s missiles, lasers and machine guns cut down enemy Elemental forces in their droves as they retreated. The Bounty Hunter did not know where they had come from but the vehicle and its crew would be a worthy addition especially with the fall of Kafka.
Four of the Bounty Hunter’s team had been lost on this contract, the Bounty Hunter would need to start again. Withdrawing into the Lyran Commonwealth Kafka’s support team agreed to take their retirement papers from the Bounty Hunter’s team and left the crew each of them agreeing to keep Nostra’s identity safe, knowing that should they betray that trust then they would pay the price with their lives.
Prison Breakout
Royal Foxx, Magistracy of Canopus
20th June 3118
Small arms fire filled the air as the small team tore through the prison facility. Their goal simple reach the high security section of the prison at all costs, killing anyone who got in their way, rescue their lost MechWarrior and escape. Sparks flew from ricocheting shots and bodies fell on both sides as the team pressed through the facility. Entering the prison block the guards were shot down at their posts while the team entered.
“Release the prisoners, find Amanda” one of the troopers said turning back towards the doors aiming his gun towards the door. Several of the others did the same while two headed into the cells gunning down another of the guards as they did. A team of guards attempted to breach the prison only for them to be gunned down in a hail of bullets. The lead trooper turned as his two troopers returned carrying a prisoner between them her face was a nasty mix of blue, red and purple from the beatings she had received but it was unmistakably Amanda Cavalcanti “good to see you.” The masked leader said looking over the prisoner her navy jumpsuit was torn in several places and there was the hint of blood from injuries elsewhere too. “Those monsters, we’ll make them pay.” He said glancing over her shoulder seeing several other prisoners “listen up you men and women, I don’t know why you are here or what you’ve done before today but you’re now free and you can come with us. Or you can stay out of our way.” Several of the prisoners moved to pick up weapons from the fallen guards readying themselves for a fight.
The troopers and former prisoners fought out the same way that they had come in fighting their way back out of the facility the same way they had entered gunning down more guards as they did. Moving back to the loading facility they continued to fight their way out of the building where two BattleMechs stood gunning down any infantry forces trying to get too close. Beyond them more Mechs stood engaging the defenders. “All Malcontents this is McCoy package secured, mission accomplished, we’re loading onto the APC and we’re leaving.” They then fought their way clear of the base and back to their waiting DropShip days later a JumpShip was ready to evacuate them from the system heading back towards Whittington. War had been declared the day that the Magistracy of Canopus had taken Amanda Cavalcanti away from Schyler McCoy and this round the Malcontents had been victorious.
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Nice update.
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Nice to see things carrying on. Can't say I like Rim name being dropped and more Clan society rising.
Good writing, Dragon Cat!
Unfortunately for the Inner Sphere there's a few Clan states
Insert drool here... :drool:
TT
Read this one... a reveal I've been working on for a long time (created the planning document for this in 2013 - first update)
Gravesite Pilgrimage
Gamma 1551 AW
Deep Periphery
4th July 3118
Under the light of a yellow sun in a clearing on a battle-scarred jungle world once known as Barbados in the deep periphery two figures wearing full Star League-era combat armour with cloaks attached entered a small maintained grave site both carried flowers. Across the planet there was wreckage from destroyed ships, BattleMechs and vehicles from a battle centuries before where thousands of people had died but not for conquest of the planet instead it was for the extinction of a people. Today there was no fighting instead it was a pilgrimage made by descendants of the survivors.
The two figures made their way through the grave site until they reached a grave surrounded by sixteen seats over the grave was an archway with nineteen totem animals, the totem animals of the Clans. “Why do we keep coming back to this world? When the clans have not returned here in decades.” The male warrior asked glancing over at the woman he had brown hair which had grown longer than a standard military formation would allow he was in his thirties. The woman was around his age she had long ginger hair which was tied back behind her head in a ponytail.
“Tradition” she replied “our ancestors died here to allow us to survive into today.”
“And soon we will be revealed to have survived” he said “and all of those survivors will curse our existence, not that there are many of them left.” He continued looking over the archway above the grave.
“There are enough and they have expanded further than we could have expected, if we are revealed too soon, we will face trouble.” She cautioned him “We won’t squander the chances we have and we will make the Clans remember our name.”
“Kerensky’s Wolf has their back turned focused on Terra” he said smirking savagely. “The Clans have lost their Homeworlds and soon will lose everything else, we should cleanse the Homeworlds too. There are Clans there which need taught lessons, perhaps we should target them first? Do what the Clans cannot.”
“Don’t get overconfident, one step at a time, the Clans have messed things up in the Homeworlds enough without us those worlds are not important right now.” The woman warrior said clearing flowers away from the gravesite replacing them with the flowers that they had brought with them. “We are positioned to make our move on the Inner Sphere and stop the ilClan being formed” she said standing up looking back at the male warrior “we are the Inner Sphere’s only hope of stopping a Wolf led ilClan and if we stop one, rally the Inner Sphere, then we could stop them all.”
“There is so much Clan space now in the Inner Sphere.” He replied “we might get our revenge on Kerensky’s Wolves but the others are closing on Terra as well.”
“Aff, we could have moved sooner, helped the Inner Sphere, but we were not ready” she replied “you know this” she said becoming irritated by him they only had so much time to make their plan work. Their teachings were clear their people had a duty to resist the formation of an ilClan at all costs. The timeline of this intervention had changed with Clan Wolf moving their occupation zone away from the original invasion corridor now they could not simply position themselves between the Clans and Terra, now they needed to take another plan.
“Our people descend from those that suffered under the Usurper, suffered following the Great Father and then his despot of a son, we have the outcasts of the Dragon, those that pillaged the periphery and those who explored it. We have perhaps the most diverse culture mankind has ever known.”
“And your point is?” The other warrior asked looking up at him from the grave.
“When does the suffering end?”
“We have a mandate to follow, it has been the plan since our exile.”
“And when the Inner Sphere resists us?” He asked looking at the female warrior “you know the Succession Lords will not simply turn over territory and the Spartans have learned that the Star League has not only been reformed but that it is powerful.” He warned “I know our plan, and I support it, but our path isn’t as clear as it once was are we going to become the same conquerors that our Khan fought against.” He asked invoking the title of the one and only Khan of their people, no-one had ever taken the title again after her death.
“On the bodies that are buried on this world and every other we have fought on we owe them to hold to the course. We will show the Inner Sphere that our people can protect them from madness of Nicholas Kerensky!” She snapped “enough of this, we came here for a reason, we must fulfil our purpose.” She said turning back to the grave her eyes looking over the stone at the Wolverine head emblem engraved at the top it was a symbol of their past, and a symbol of their promise.
“Aff, Commanding-General Ebon” the other warrior said joining her in prayer.
Clan Hall, Goliath Scorpion Territory
Goldwater, Arizona
Deep Periphery
16th July 3118
Deep in the heart of Clan Goliath Scorpion Territory on the world of Arizona saKhan Connor Rood entered the Khan’s appointment hall of the Clan’s command Hall in the city of Goldwater. While the Goliath Scorpions alongside the Blood Spirits had retaken several of the worlds in the Homeworlds they maintained their strongest hold on the colony world of Arizona which they held exclusively.
Today the righty year old saKhan Connor Rood entered his Khan’s office. “My Khan” he said approaching Khan Freema Kirov the light of the office glistening off his shaved head.
“How go the Sand Runners?” The Khan asked using his command’s nickname
“Hellion Galaxy improves daily my Khan” Rood said looking at the Khan using the Galaxy’s adopted name the Galaxy had taken, of all the Goliath Scorpion units Rood’s Galaxy had the most orphans from former Clans with the majority coming from Clan Ice Hellion.
“And what brings you back to Arizona?” She asked despite Rood’s age he was a powerful man within the Clan.
“You brought me back to the Homeworlds now I want to pay it forward and bring other Clansmen back to the Homeworlds.”
“We do not have the resources to continue sending troops beyond the Homeworlds while the Society remains a threat.”
“There are men and women who were born as Clansmen. I do not wish to take all of Hellion Galaxy only the First Cateran Cluster we will join with the Seekers, I know you have out there. Our Clan needs trained troops” he said “and you need to get rid of me” he suggested “this will be my last mission for our Clan and I want to improve our strength not divide it.”
“We will not be able to continue to support these adventures, Quiaff?”
“Aff, my Khan I am aware. I will keep our command going by incorporating some of the warriors I redeem while sending others back to the Clan.”
“Agreed” Kirov said quickly “good luck saKhan” they both knew she saw him leaving Arizona as a way of removing any sort of challenge towards her leadership.
“I will make our Clan stronger” he said saluting her with his fist across his chest before leaving without another word.
Star League Deployment Base
Caph, Northwind EDZ
Star League Protectorate
21st July 3118
After four years on the far-off Magistracy of Canopus world of Gallis Colonel Janina el Arguioui was finding her way around her office. The last four years had been a busy four years her command the Integrated Combat Support Services had assisted the SLDF in building a new base on the periphery world. What they had built essentially amounted to facilities that rivalled a Castle Brian. The SLDF at present had a regiment based on the world which had taken over from her Integrated Combat Support Services but the facilities there could easily house a full Regimental Brigade and support it for months in a reinforced series of bunkers. At present the plan was to share the facilities with the local Magistracy of Canopus troops but what was only known to the SLDF and the Integrated Services was that the SLDF could shut down certain parts of the base, namely those which the Magistracy troops would be assigned to, and not compromise the bases defences. They could then drive out the Magistracy forces and retake the full base with minimal casualties. Arguioui did not see that scenario being a problem at present the Magistracy of Canopus was a very strong supporter of the SLDF and was sending as many new recruits as any other member state. Life had also been busy for Arguioui herself while in the Magistracy she had gotten married and had a daughter making life even more complicated.
“Colonel” Lt. Colonel Andreas Dandekar said from the door, he was her XO and the man who had turned the world of Caph into cleaner more habitable world while also expanding the forces she had left on Caph to nearly a full regiment of support workers. As soon as Arguioui had returned to Caph she had promoted the man to Lt. Colonel for his efforts with her new family commitments she wanted to pass on more responsibilities to him after she negotiated a new contract with the SLDF.
“Yes, Andreas” she said turning towards him
“Commanding General Victor Focht, Colonel” he said stepping aside to reveal Victor Focht the commander of all of the Star League Defence Forces. Andreas Dandekar was a mountain of a man an engineer before an officer he barely wore the official unit uniform instead favouring custom made overalls which he said fitted him better. There was a joke around the unit he could match an Elemental in an arm wrestle while drinking the bar dry. Their visitor was far smaller and looked slightly younger than the big man Victor Focht was a MechWarrior by training before rising through the SLDF ranks, she had planned to meet with him on Terra in a few months’ time, seeing him here was concerning.
“Welcome to Caph” she said greeting him he was her employer but not her superior due to her command’s continued status as a mercenary registered unit.
“Thank you, Colonel, congratulations to you on your marriage and the continued growth of your family” he said stepping into the office. He wore the green day-to-day uniform of the SLDF with a red sash which was clasped by an SLDF Cameron Star. “And congratulations to you as well Lt Colonel Dandekar on your promotion and your efforts here on Caph, you have done wonders here” he said looking at the other man who fought his body’s urge to blush in embarrassment.
“Your praise is greatly appreciated” Arguioui said attempting to cover for Dandekar. “Thank you, Lt Colonel I’m sure you have duties to attend to.”
“Yes, Colonel” he said turning to leave the two in the room alone.
“Actually, Colonel would you mind if he stayed a moment?” Focht asked looking at the retreating Dandekar as he began to sit down.
“Of course, take a seat Andreas” the Lt Colonel nodded and sat down on a chair at the back of the room. “Please Commanding-General” she said inviting him to continue.
“As I said you’ve done incredible work on Gallis and here on Caph” he said “you’ve gone far and beyond the terms of your contract. You have done very well but now the SLDF wants more.”
“More? Our people just spent four years in the arse end of the periphery” Arguioui explained unhappy with the prospect of further travelling for her unit. “We need time to rest and refit.”
“Absolutely, and we plan on giving you that time. The Integrated Combat Support Services might never have to collectively leave Caph again.” Focht offered “Colonel, I don’t want your command to travel around the Inner Sphere, I want to use your skills and your resources to train the next generation of engineers who can build a future for humanity.”
“That sounds like a very long and expensive contract.” Dandekar remarked from the back of the room Focht turned towards him and smirked seeing the man’s motivations.
“I want to offer something greater than a contract” he said turning back towards Arguioui “I offer your people the chance to leave a legacy on the entire Inner Sphere.”
“You want to Company Store us?” Arguioui asked using the term when one of the Great Houses absorbed a mercenary unit into their forces.
“Not quite, you’re not in debt to us, instead you would become serving members of the SLDF” he said glancing over at Dandekar who looked more intrigued than worried. Your unit would continue to do what it has done for its entire existence, there are hot spots out there that need work, units that need supported built up.” He explained “the worlds that make up the Protectorate are some of the heaviest fought over worlds in the Inner Sphere some of them need cleaned up, others we wish to fortify along the lines of Gallis and who better to be in command of building it than those that built Fort Gallis and restored parts of Caph?”
“That’s a lot of responsibility.”
“Yes, it is Colonel but your unit is one I think that can handle it. As the command brigade of this new Division, I’d expect some of you to remain here continuing to restore Caph, coordinating the others and training new recruits.” Behind him he heard Dandaker make a noise, he clearly did not want to remain on Caph again. “Others will want to take on challenges beyond Caph.”
“That’s quite an offer Commanding-General.” Arguioui stated “but my people are not fighters, we have minimal combat assets. The SLDF go to hot spots where trouble follows.”
“I am aware which is why I am going to move the First Special Operations Group into your Division. They will be the combat arm of your command, they can handle any unit in the Inner Sphere and Clans, but they also specialize in hot zone incident clean ups.” He suggested the First Special Operations Group was originally formed by two mercenary commands the Devil’s Advocates and Killer Bees that specialized in asymmetrical warfare.
“Our people will have to discuss this before we agree” Arguioui said the Commanding-General nodded his understanding “but I am leaning to suggesting that they agree to the proposal.” She said “I think our people have found a home with the SLDF.” She said over Focht’s shoulder she could see Dandaker nodding his agreement.
“I will be on planet for at least a week Colonel, feel free canvass your troops before your decision.”
“Thank you, Commanding-General” she said raising from her chair Focht and Dandakar followed suit with Arguioui reaching out shaking Focht’s outstretched hand. Focht turned away a moment later ready to shake Dandakar’s hand as well but the large Major was already standing at attention when he turned with perfect military precision he saluted the Commanding-General showing exactly where he believed the unit were going.
A week passed and the Integrated Support Services officially became part of the Star League Defence Force forming the core of a new support Division. Colonel Janina el Arguioui remained in command of the unit taking a promotion to Lt. General with her responsibilities focusing on the command, recruitment, and training for further brigades for the Division, as part of these responsibilities she remained in overall command of the unit which was based on Caph and she was in charge of the continued clean-up of the planet. Major Andreas Dandekar also received a promotion to Lt. Colonel taking over command of the newly formed Second Integrated Support Service Regimental Brigade which was formed primarily from the troops he had commanded on Caph during the unit’s deployment to Gallis. The Second were being sent to Thorin with instructions to expand the SLDF fortifications and facilities on Thorin.
Forty-Fifth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Stadium
Independent World
28th July 3118
In the history of humanity there were buildings that never slept, cities that were active throughout the day and night and then there was Solaris VII, the Game World, at no point in the year was the game world “quiet” there was never a day on Solaris in the entire year that you could not make a bet on a live game where a MechWarrior, pilot, vehicle crew or fist fighter were fighting or racing for the win.
Outside of the primary Solaris Game BattleMech season one competition had gained people’s attention the Star League Games since it was established in 3074 there had been forty-three previous engagements with forty-two winners. Only in 3091 when the game had been interrupted by a terrorist attack and in 3093 when the games had been cancelled due to war commitments. Originally taking place in Solaris’ Colosseum more recently it had taken place within the Star League Stadium, the newest and most advanced of all the stadiums on Solaris.
The competition itself was open to everyone, as Solaris was jointly held by the Star League Defence Force and the Clans, and warriors from across known space traveled to the games to test themselves against other competitors. Due to it being an arena battle the regulars on the Solaris often did well but visitors to Solaris also had as good a chance as anyone who made their livelihood on the game world.
This year the competition was dominated by visitors with exclusively Clansmen making it through to the final battle. Star Captain Robin Kerensky of Clan Wolf, Star Commander Warner of Clan Coyote and MechWarrior Hampus of Clan Nova Cat were the final three standing warriors with Robin Kerensky’s Timber Wolf, Warner’s Linebacker and Hampus’ Shadow Cat the last fighters.
During the battle with his short-range missile system empty Hampus Nova Cat ran circles around the two other OmniMechs sniping at them with the paired extended-range large lasers on his own forty-five-ton machine. With the traditional dueling rules of the Clans abandoned in the melee of fighting the two heavier Mechs tried to split fire against each other and the speeding Shadow Cat. The Nova Cat warrior continued to move and hit the other two Mechs wearing them down with pin-point laser fire which degraded thee two enemy OmniMechs to the point that they could no longer fight. The with neither other two warriors were able to concentrate on one enemy the two heavier OmniMechs fell leaving only one winner. A secret held by Hampus Nova Cat and his support crew was that Hampus was a member of a new breed of MechWarriors and was known as an “Elstar.” A trueborn MechWarrior bred to be better than the previous generation by focusing on one aspect of warfare in Hampus’ case this additional training was in the accuracy of his laser shots. All of the Clans had begun to breed “specialist” MechWarriors and only time would tell if they were superior to the regular trueborn warriors.
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I'm going to post this with crossed fingers that the forum remains - I'm sure many of you who read here have read on the BT forum but just in case there are those of you who only read here. Well here we go
In the tradition of this timeline I'm going to start this entry with a "Thanks" this time to the author of the excellent Project Lancaster Sumaire_STi who allowed me to borrow a unit or two and Dreadnaught Interstellar Industries for this AU. In the next update a fun new Battle Armour the Vixen makes its debut.
Canon materials also continue to influence this AU and a couple of them appear in this update too
First Class, Battle Armour Orientation
Cameron-Jones Battle Armour School, Wallis
District of Regulus, Free Worlds League
9th August 3118
The class of fifty-two cadets stood at attention as the next class of battle armour cadets waited for their training commandant to arrive. In front of them stood a single battle armour suit which had a large double-barrelled weapon over its right shoulder it was a new design built by a new Dreadnaught Interstellar Industries Battle Armour plant here on Wallis named the Vixen BA-X1. The Vixen which was at present being sold exclusively to the District of Regulus was planned to become the primary light battle armour suit for the armed forces units raised by Regulus.
After a few minutes the Commandant stepped out he was a large barrel of a man with a completely bald head. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Jim Montgomery the Commandant of this training facility welcome to the Cameron-Jones Battle Armour School of Wallis. Together you will be assigned to this school’s training unit the First Battle Armour Regiment you will learn how to pilot, how to fight and how to operate Battle Armour tactics here on Wallis before being transferred to units based across the District of Regulus.” He explained to the gathered cadets the term ladies and gentlemen was a loose one with forty-four women standing in the formation and only six men that was due to the Vixen’s design which favoured smaller users and was incapable of being worn by troopers of a larger frame. “This is the Vixen BA-X1 you will become intimately familiar with this design during your time here at this college. You will then take it into battle as members of the Regulan Defence Force.” He said as the trooper began to move forwards between the assembled cadets down the middle of the assembly hall. “The Vixen is able to jump one hundred and twenty metres in a single bound, it is coated in stealth armour and armed with two over-shoulder David Light Gauss Rifles for striking enemy units.”
In the crowd watching Duchess Rene Cameron-Jones the seventeen-year-old daughter and heir to Prince Lester Cameron-Jones stood. Up until three months before she had lived in the District of McKenna with her mother Duchess Saadia Cheynov the Prince’s former wife. On her return to Regulus Rene had demanded that she be allowed to serve the nation of her birth and her father had agreed to allow her to serve in the growing Battle Armour Corps. Looking at the Battle Armour suit Rene watched as the trooper reached up towards the shoulder mounted weapon as they did a handle lowered to meet the glove and the trooper was able to guide the weapon. Rene watched as the trooper turned scanning the gathered troopers its arm on the weapon, she immediately disliked the look having to use an arm to control the weapon was a serious design limitation. But she had volunteered for this, her father had swayed Dreadnaught Interstellar Industries to build factory here in the District of Regulus and she would make the most of the new design.
Border skirmishes
Capellan March, Federated Suns
19th August 3118
With Federated Suns units out of position in the Capellan March attending training exercises the Capellan Confederation and Taurian Concordat raid multiple worlds in force. As part of a coordinated strike the Capellan Confederation strikes at the Ziliang salient while the Taurian Concordat strike at border worlds.
In the Ziliang Salient the Capellans find the Eighth New Avalon Guards RCT, multiple militia regiments and mercenary commands. Hit on multiple worlds and by overwhelming force the Eighth folds under the pressure as they attempt to resist the incoming Capellans. With Capellan WarShips supporting the ground forces the Capellans quickly cement control over Uraven, Valhas, Homestead and Immenstadt leaving only Ziliang and Ambergrist standing in the face of the Capellans. With no major industry on either world the Capellan March’s High Command order Ziliang and Ambergrist abandoned by the AFFS leading to a mass exodus from the population who flood the spaceports looking for a way off the planet before the Capellans gain full control.
While not as successful as the Capellan attacks the Taurian Concordat are able to secure control over Brockway, Mithron and Amber Grove along their border. Attacks against Hyalite, Lothir and Brusett are unsuccessful but it shows where the Taurians wish to expand. From the Federated Suns point of view the resistance to the Taurian attacks is minimal, each of the systems targeted formerly belonged to the Taurians and the Federated Suns had invested minimally in the worlds since their conquest maintaining what was there but adding little else.
Trial of Possession
Fletcher’s Feast, Core Territory
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
23rd August 3118
Days after the capture of Xenia in the Federated Suns by Clan Nova Cat in a Trial of Possession the Federated Suns surprised Clan Nova Cat with a deep raid targeting the world of Fletcher’s Feast. The world of Fletcher’s Feast had been part of the Nova Cat’s Den since its foundation when the Clan invaded what was the Tortuga Dominions and destroyed the pirates who inhabited the world. The world had historically been too warm for human habitation, the limited water and vegetation had kept numbers down and life harsh but it also had great deposits of metals which the pirates had found useful so a continuous stream of people had been brought into the system.
In the time that Fletcher’s Feast was a pirate world the world had been the site of ammunition and petroleum production facilities but since the Nova Cats had come to the system the facilities the Federated Suns troops found there staggered them. Small settlements which once dotted the landscape had been replaced with massive cities which housed hundreds of thousands of people. The old facilities were still there with the petroleum refinery expanded and the ammunition production facilities expanded to supply the Nova Cat war machine dozens of buildings produced all the types of ammunition needed beside them was an extensive live fire area. The Nova Cats had built an area dedicated to science with their own firing ranges, along with a massive aerospace fighter training complex with ground and orbital facilities catering for recruits. Alongside the aerospace training complex was the largest Bavros Bloodhouse Sibko in the entire Nova Cat’s Den. Against the backdrop of all these changes for the last sixty years a terraforming facility had turned the too warm windswept world into a greener one with rivers and lakes where previously there were none before. While not the perfect world Fletcher’s Feast was thriving compared to when it had been a pirate world.
As the Overlord-class DropShip came down to land at the spaceport a solitary Naga II OmniMech stood opposing the incoming DropShip. The Mech was painted with light blue arms and legs which were dotted with red stars the torso was painted in blue, yellow and green colours which were diagonally stripped with stripes leading from each arm and leg towards the centre of the torso the head structure was painted red. “I am Star Colonel Lucian, of Clan Nova Cat, I command the Fourteenth Nova Cat Vision Cluster which defends Fletcher’s Feast who brings this trial to this soil and what do you bring with you?”
“This is Major Daniel de Oliveira of the Federated Suns Rabid Fox Ninth team we declare a Trial of Possession for this system in the name of the Federated Suns.” The male’s voice replied “I bring two companies of BattleMechs and a mixed company of vehicles and battle armour suits to this trial.”
“I counter this bid with a Supernova Trinary, and three Combined-arms Trinaries.” The Nova Cat Warrior countered as the Overlord continued to vent gasses on the landing pad none of the doors had opened yet. The combined forces of the Fourteenth Vision would easily be enough to counter the Battalion of troops the Federated Suns had taken to the battle even if they were an elite unit.
“These trials have been beneficial to both our peoples, we should not be wasteful of lives and equipment, I will counter this bid with my command company augmented by two Battle Armour Platoons.” Daniel de Oliveira said challenging the Nova Cat command to lower their bid reducing the number of combatants to twelve BattleMechs and thirty-two Battle Armoured troopers. Due to the ongoing trials with Clan Nova Cat all Federated Suns commanders had been instructed to attempt to minimise the damage caused by the trials and minimise losses in equipment and personnel.
“I will bid a single Supernova Binary augmented by a single point of aerospace fighters” Lucian said bidding ten BattleMechs and twenty-five Battle Armour troopers and two aerospace fighters, the aircraft were a simple addition which he would only use in an observation capacity, they would only come into play if the Federated Suns troops broke Zellbrigen
“Well bargained and done.” De Oliveira said ending the bidding as the Clans preferred, the more they honoured the Clan way the more likely they would get the result they wanted.
“The Trial will take place in three hours on the Steam Plains to the west of this spaceport. You are invited to explore the Plains during the preparation time.” Lucian explained before turning his Naga II OmniMech away from the Overlord.
The Steam Plains were a by-product of the terraforming process the water reserves buried deep within the planet had been released into the warm planet causing a near constant steam haze over the area. The area would interfere with communications, sensors, and missile guidance the Nova Cat troops trained in the region regularly and it was only fair to allow the visitors into the area.
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Three hours and thirty minutes later the two sides were in the middle of a huge battle and Star Colonel Lucian’s Naga II was in the heart of it. Surrounded in weapons fire and steam Lucian leaned to the right and opened fire with his assault LB-X Autocannon filling the air between Lucian’s Mech and a Federated Suns Centurion tearing open the side of the fifty-ton BattleMech. Through the steam the Centurion attempted to avoid further fire but the Naga II’s Streak equipped short range missile rack maintained a lock further damaging the enemy Mech. Autocannon and laser fire from the Centurion flew back on the Naga II but the assault OmniMech’s armour could take it standing his ground Lucian added lasers to his counter attack not everything connected but enough did to end the Centurion’s fight.
“Star Colonel, Point Three, the remaining Federated Suns forces are combining fire.” The Huntsman pilot off to his right reported Lucian twisted his Naga’s torso seeing what the pilot was reporting seeing an Enforcer III and JagerMech III targeting the Huntsman he opened fire with his Mechs lasers on the JagerMech intending on assisting the Huntsman pilot while switching comm. frequencies.
“Archangel Point, Immolation Protocol” he ordered the two orbiting Scytha OmniFighters. With the order given the two pilots dived into combat the two ninety-five-ton aircraft were loaded with short range missiles which were equipped with inferno munitions and plasma cannons. The two craft dived through the steam targeting Federated Suns units setting the OmniMechs on fire and burning down Battle Armour squads where they stood. The two fighters using the steam as cover dived through the battle laying down short range missile and plasma fire before repeating the pass covering the targets in more fire until every Federated Suns unit was covered in inferno jelly. The tactic was a dishonourable one but Lucian was content with the fact that the Federated Suns had broken the rules of Zellbrigen first and now the Nova Cats would finish the fight. With their BattleMechs overheating the Federated Suns troops found it harder and harder to defend themselves against the Nova Cat attacks. Unable to effectively fight the remaining MechWarriors surrendered the trial leaving the Clansmen in control of Fletcher’s Feast. After the fighting and the final fighter attack only eight of the Federated Suns pilots and troopers survived the battle.
Meeting Room, Abandoned Firebase
Voltenna Island, Dieron
Star League Protectorate
29th August 3118
The military facilities of Dieron had largely been decommissioned following the District’s absorption into the Star League Protectorate. All the surviving military units had been recalled to their primary bases to be re-organised as Star League Defence Force units this had left plenty of spare bases for those needing a place to think and move forward with their lives. One such warrior was Tai-sa Harold Nakayama who had served the District of Dieron before being critically injured and evacuated to Dieron.
While receiving the best of care from the District and Star League doctors Harold Nakayama had learned the truth regarding the war with the Rasalhague Dominion how the Draconis Combine had started the conflict using a mercenary unit to conduct a false-flag operation. Although he had been offered a commission as a Major within the Star League Defence Force Harold had refused the commission instead, he had taken his family-owned Archer and retreated to this firebase. In the last few months, he had assembled nineteen others who felt the same way as he did and now it was time to declare their intentions.
Although his dark hair was beginning to lose its colour, turning grey with age, he still wore it in the traditional Draconis Combine topknot he wore a traditional Draconis Combine outfit which was coloured brown and had no insignia. Entering the meeting room, he saw the other nineteen members of the command “Thank you for all attending” he said “you have all decided that you cannot continue to serve with the Dieron Regiments now that they are joining the Star League Defence Force. You all agree that while the Rasalhague Dominion ravaged our nation that it was the Draconis Combine and their mercenaries that truly doomed our nation.”
“Death to the mercenaries!” Several of the gathered members called out in unison echoing a call once made by Coordinator of the Draconis Combine Takashi Kurita. It was a call that had been made after the Wolf’s Dragoons embarrassed the DCMS by standing up to them and resisting their efforts to destroy the unit.
“We will have no support in our mission” Harold Nakayama warned “Nakayama’s Blood will be a command with no home and no lord. We will be Ronin warriors.” He said meeting each of the MechWarriors eyes making sure they understood exactly what they were proposing. They would take what they wanted and they would hunt down mercenary commands, specifically those under contract with the Draconis Combine but all such units would be forfeit in the eyes of the command.”
“Death to the mercenaries!” The group called out a second time this time all of them had spoken together.
“Your call is heard; I have spoken to a JumpShip captain he is willing to ferry us and our DropShips between the stars. Our hunt is on.” He said the Nakayama’s Blood, Ronin warriors, were now alone cutting their ties with their past they looked for revenge against those who they believed had wronged them intending on taking what they needed from their targets. To show their disdain for the nation that had destroyed their home every BattleMech in the command was one which had been produced within the District of Dieron or Draconis Combine and the entire unit was devoid of Clan technology.
-
Border skirmish
Fujidera, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
6th September 3118
During what should have been a confidence boosting trip around the District of Oriente the twenty-four-year-old leader Duchess Sophie Halas becomes embroiled in a border skirmish with raiders from the Capellan Confederation. While the defenders of the world, the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente Regiment, seemed to have the battle in hand the Duchess chose to join the battle appropriating a sixty-ton Anzu BattleMech from the Sixth’s stores. While she was trained as a Land-Air-Mech pilot Sophie was more than capable of piloting the heavy Mech and had joined the Sixth’s battle line.
The chain of events which followed were the result of a chain of failures from Oriente Intelligence and a well-crafted plan by the Capellan Confederations Maskirovka. Drawing the Duchess and her protection lance into a battle which they could not immediately disengage they trap the unit in place with a suppression barrage of artillery which cuts the Duchess off from the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente.
Sophie Halas fights for her life as the Capellan Confederation pour in fire from every side in a slowly tightening noose as the Sixth attempts to break through with reinforcements. In a battle that essentially guts the Sixth’s fighting strength as it attempts to battle through the thick artillery screen. Three hours into the battle autocannon flak penetrates the Anzu’s cockpit and Sophie Halas, Duchess of the Oriente Protectorate, is instantly killed inside the sixty-ton BattleMech.
With their Duchess dead on the battlefield and the Sixth torn to pieces by their multiple attempts to penetrate Capellan Confederation lines the battle turns into a rout with District of Oriente forces streaming towards their DropShips in retreat and disarray. A raid and assassination attempt becomes an occupation as the Capellan forces allow the Oriente forces to retreat.
---
Three days later a flustered aide rain into the Mechbay where Ralph Halas was assisting technnicians on one of the Halas family Persus OmniMechs. “Sire! I bring important news on your sister” the young dark-skinned woman shouted up towards him. Ralph stood on a gantry watching the techs, he wore his blonde hair down to his shoulders and wore a grey jumpsuit, he looked down at the woman who wore a grey suit.
“What is it, Amanda?” He nearly snapped, the last thing he needed to hear was how his big sister was growing her strength in the District of Oriente. He had a lot of respect for her but he also believed she was stumbling in the dark as she attempted to lead their small nation.
“Sire, the Capellans ambushed her unit on Fujidera, she was killed in the ensuing firefight.” She reported “the Capellans have taken over the planet and driven off our people. I’m sorry for your loss.”
“Where is Javier?” He demanded immediately asking about his twin brother they were both twenty-one years old, almost twenty-two as he had reminded his sister several times, neither had enlisted in the military but both had received extensive BattleMech training even after their joyride in 3100. Both their father and elder sister had insisted they knew how to defend themselves.
“I… I… I don’t know sire” she stammered over the words
“Find him!” He shouted “Now!” Amanda ran off as quickly as she could. Ralph was right to be concerned, an aide of Javier’s had informed him of their sister’s death at approximately the same time and already Ralph was in the process of contacting media outlets not to commemorate their sister’s passing but to declare himself the rightful ruler of the District of Oriente. Ralph, on hearing of his brother’s actions, acted quickly and declared himself the true ruler which sets the two brothers on a collision course.
As the District of Oriente teeters on the brink of invasion and potentially civil war elsewhere in the Free Worlds League Duke Anson Marik, the eldest child of Captain-General Joseph Marik and Duchess Lucy Marik, joins the District of Marik’s military training program.
Ruling Council Meeting
Jetheitania, Zeta Atheni
Zeta Quadrant Periphery
11th September 3118
The four leaders of the Zeta Quadrant worlds were sat in their council chambers on the outskirts of Jetheitania when the doors opened and a tall figure wearing a full set of infantry combat armour with a grey cloak which was draped over the uniform and over their face strode past the two guards who stood just outside the door. The cloak was open at the front but it was still closed enough to conceal any markings. “Thank you for gathering.” The cloaked figure said by her voice they could tell she was a woman but nothing else “I am here to inform you that the mercenary units within your nation have been disarmed. Most of them realized they were outgunned and surrendered with little or no loss of life…”
“Glad to see the money we paid them meant so much” Richard Mashida said interrupting the figure, he was dressed in a navy-coloured suit.
“…they were hopelessly outgunned. Those that resisted died with no chance of survival.” The figure said continuing.
“With our agreement made we will now take over full responsibilities for your defence.” She explained “you will continue to be the face of your planets. You will inform anyone who asks that you are still defended by the same mercenaries that previously defended you.”
“But if you have the power that you claim, we could be far better placed!” Council member Rachel Marshand protested, their new partners claimed to have great power, enough to resist the Cirincus Federation and nearby Rim Collection.
“Council woman this will be your one warning.” The figure said “any deviation from our instructions will result…” she suddenly stopped speaking looking at them she removed her cloak revealing she had white, near albino, coloured skin, someone who had spent little to no time under a planet’s sun. She had ginger coloured curly hair which was pulled back and tied into a pony-tail and she appeared to be in her thirties. “A warning with words is not enough I can see, fine” she said with some finality she drew her sidearm aimed it at them and fired four times in rapid succession striking each of the council members in the chest with a slug throwing weapon. The figure did not make a step but turned on the spot and dropped to one knee as the two guards rushed inside, she didn’t hesitate and fired twice more gunning down both men in rapid succession.
Standing back up she glanced over the dead council members again for a moment before re-holstering her weapon and drawing out a communicator. “One to Two, Elections” she said before turning on the spot and marching out. That afternoon the four former members of the council were reported lost in an atmospheric aircraft crash in Zeta Atheni’s atmosphere. In the days and weeks that followed four new “Ruling” members were elected to the Council each of them was far more agreeable to the changes which had been made to the nation. While each of them had lived on their homeworlds for their entire lives all four were not just natives of the worlds but also agents of the new ruling force. Their first ruling was that the four ruling council members could not be on the same aircraft atmospheric or aerospace in the future. To maintain the ruse that Zeta Quadrant was defended by the same forces than previously the mercenary unit’s forces were used as part of the defence force and all their colours were adopted by any newly arrived forces.
Landing Sequence
Raider’s Roost, Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
20th September 3118
In formation four Union-C type DropShips each bearing the crest of Clan Smoke Jaguar burned towards the surface of Tortuga Prime landing near the former capital of the planet Raider’s Roost. When they had arrived in the system Khan Petra Furey, the leader of Clan Smoke Jaguar, had identified herself as a passenger of the lead vessel. She asked for and was granted Safcon and allowed to land around a barracks facility on the planet’s surface. The long journey from the Free Worlds League to the Nova Cat’s Den had been a hard one Khan Petra Furey was not a fan of space travel at the best of times and was just glad to have a planet under his feet even if it was a desolate rock like Tortuga Prime.
All the Smoke Jaguars knew about Tortuga Prime came from the information brought to the Smoke Jaguars by the rogue Nova Cat unit, the Fifteenth Battle Cluster, they knew that Tortuga Prime had been the first world of the former Tortuga Dominions captured by the Clan but that they had all but abandoned it turning it into a live-fire range. That was not to say that there was no population on the planet, there were several thousand people who lived in the system. These people were captured prisoners of the Nova Cat Clan who had not adapted to Clan life, raiders, pirates, members of their own Dark Caste were often marooned there, they were given enough supplies to survive and live their lives but otherwise left to their own devices. To secure the system the Nova Cat’s had often up to two Clusters of Warriors on the planet to maintain order and stop all out wars breaking out between the factions, while a WarShip or multiple assault DropShips were also assigned to the system ready to shoot down anyone who attempted to rescue those that had been left on the planet.
---
For three days the Smoke Jaguars were made to wait in a barracks facility which the Nova Cats maintained on the base. From what her people could tell, based on items left on the base, the Nova Cats had previously held a Federated Suns command at the facility. Walking around the facility Khan Petra Furey was getting more and more annoyed by the wait before there was noise outside the facility looking out the windows, she saw a group of Nova Cat OmniMechs and Elementals burning down towards the surface. “A little show from our hosts” she whispered seeing the Dragon Cat OmniMech in the lead coming in for a landing, the seventy-ton OmniMech was painted black with gold and red highlights like a Nova Cat’s mane when it was ready to attack. “Welcome Khan Rosse” she said satisfied she had gotten the response from the Nova Cat’s she had expected.
Soon afterwards Khan Canin Rosse and his security force entered the facility. There were other Nova Cats here before he had arrived but they had given the Smoke Jaguars a wide berth so far now she was face to face with a Khan of another Clan, one which was far superior to her own. “Welcome to Tortuga Khan Rosse” Petra Furey said as the Khan entered. The two of them could not be more different Khan Canin Rosse was eighty years old, while he looked healthy, fit, content with his position, and he appeared to have seen a lot he also had many of the scars to prove it, he was dressed in a plain black-and-gold coloured jumpsuit while Petra Furey was twenty-eight years old, full of energy, drive and desire. Her jumpsuit was grey in colour but she had fur lined over the shoulders and down the arms, it wasn’t Smoke Jaguar fur but it was a star and a link to what her people needed to be, what the Founder had designed them to be.
“Thank you, Khan Furey, you are a long way from home” he noted entering the meeting room, the room doubled as a mess hall for Furey’s people while they were here. They had moved the tables and chairs which were in the room to the far side. “It is impressive that you were able to make it to Tortuga without being detected” he said walking between the Jaguars who were with Furey “and you have brought interesting company.” He said stopping beside a young woman with short blonde hair and a denim jacket over her jumpsuit on the shoulder was a unit patch the insignia of Clan Nova Cat with a BattleMech’s silhouette superimposed over it and the number “15” above it. “You MechWarrior are too young to be a member of the Fifteenth Battle Cluster.” He said ignoring Petra Furey to look at the woman who could not have been older than twenty-five years old.
“Aff” she responded looking at him “I am Star Captain Kimberly Higall, Lost Ones Cluster, Liger Warriors Galaxy. ovKhan” she answered using the term to honour her superior.
“Higall is a Nova Cat name, for a Nova Cat unit.” He said nodding towards the unit patch.
“I took my grand-father’s name Khan Rosse, I have fought with honour under his name.” She said defiantly.
“I believe you, but you are not a Bloodnamed warrior yet.” He said turning back to Khan Petra Furey “as I said Khan Furey you have impressed me enough to listen to you.”
“I need your assistance Khan Rosse” Furey said watching the older Khan’s movements around the room before he returned to where he first stood. “A representative of the Clan Council approached my Clan and intimated that it may be time for the Smoke Jaguars to re-join Clan society.” She explained
“I am a member of that Council; and I am aware of this offer.”
“Good, but my people are not ready for this yet.” Furey said glancing down not out of shame but in thought “my people need a true link to our Founder.” She explained raising her arms “you are correct Khan Rosse I did bring the descendants of your Fifteenth Battle Cluster on this mission because they are a link to our past as a true Clan. But I also want some true links to being the Clans and to make a bold statement about our return.”
“A worthy goal” Rosse said approvingly but giving away nothing with his words or his body language instead the elder Khan stood still resting. She was able to study him while his age was advanced and there were signs of deterioration he still stood steadily and proudly, she had little doubt he could fight right now if he needed to. Other Clans, her Jaguars included would relegate warriors his age to garrison duty, but the Nova Cats had always continued to use their warriors beyond others.
“I want to prove to the Clans that the Jaguars are ready to take their place within our society and that we can prove our worth.” She explained “unfortunately I need Nova Cat resources to complete the mission I have in mind.”
“Which is?” Canin Rosse asked his curiosity peaking as she began to explain her thoughts.
“I will not disclose it now, but I will credit the victory to your Clan as well as mine” she promised him, Rosse did not look convinced by the promise of words. “I will also offer you the rights of isorla, for anything your Clan wishes to salvage from the mission.”
“You believe your prize will be of interest to us?” Rosse wondered out loud as Furey continued to speak.
“Aff, you will find what I want to target to be very interesting. But to sweeten the deal I am willing to give your scientists access to our Advanced Gun System immediately.” She offered the Mech-sized weapons were half the weight of normal weapons. While they had limited applications, they did give different weapon options to standard BattleMechs which could offer tactical options.
“And what is it you need from my Clan to prosecute this mission?”
“Your Clan’s Storm and Dezgra.” She said smiling broadly as she saw she had caught the elder Nova Cat Khan by surprise.
“Why would you need either of those units?” Rosse asked the Nova Cat’s Dezgra command was the Third Watch Cluster, they were so named because of their use of BattleMechs, Battle Armour and vehicles which employed stealth armour and sneak attacks directly against the rules of Clan honour. While the Storm was the Nova Cat’s one and only operational Bug-Eye class vessel a ship which was useless in combat but vital in intelligence gathering missions.
“A mission of the utmost importance, and one with rewards that cannot be underestimated.” She promised him “it will not be without peril; we may lose some of our assets but we will gain rewards which I guarantee none of the Clans in the Clan Council have access to from a place that none of the Clans have been willing to go.”
“You have piqued my interest. What naval escorts will our people have?” Rosse asked now honestly willing to consider the operation.
“I have none to give.” Furey admitted “I will use the Storm to scout for our JumpShip and avoid any targets.”
“There may be naval assets at your target quiaff?” Rosse challenged now angry that the Smoke Jaguar leader was being so cavalier about her apparent important mission.
“Aff” she admitted “we can only take what we have to take.”
“And if there is a hardened asset over your target? Will you run away with your tail between your legs?” He challenged her stepping closer “or do you want to fight? I have naval assets I can detach to assist in your quest.”
“In exchange for what? I have nothing else to give you Khan Rosse. My Smoke Jaguars while proud are not the Clan which was your Clan’s equal once. We are rebuilding I want to complete this mission to help in that not squander more strength.” She said becoming angry at the suggestion.
“Information on your mission, what we could encounter? And what you are looking for? And blood.” He said looking at the younger Khan and the others in the room. “I will maintain the secrecy of what you plan until you are ready to release the information.” Petra turned and walked away from Khan Rosse angrily flailing her arms in the air as she moved, other members of her Clan get out of the way allowing her to move around the room. The thing that angered her the most was that she knew he was right.
“I wish to return to Huntress.” She said looking away from Khan Rosse before turning around “I wish to salvage at least one ProtoMech assembly line for my Clan.”
“You could salvage that anywhere, Quineg?” Rosse asked confused Huntress was a lofty goal but it could not be the only reason.
“Neg, I want one that the Smoke Jaguars built, we pioneered the technology, I want our birthright back.” She said “I also want to salvage any Society or Clan technology we encounter in the Homeworlds and gain intelligence.” She explained “we will give that to the Clan Council as our giftake when we re-join the council. As for blood I will not dilute what we have before we head on our mission.”
“Tortuga is a testing world each of you that claims a Bloodname will fight for that honour. If you succeed the Nova Cat Clan will recognize you as being a founder of that line within Clan Smoke Jaguar giving you the honour of the Bloodnamed in the eyes of all the Clans. Those that fail will be consigned to history, you may retain your names in your own company but we will not recognize them.” He explained looking at all the warriors “as for blood” he said drawing a dagger from his belt opening his left palm he drew the dagger across his palm. “You are so challenged”
“Well bargained and done Khan Rosse” Khan Petra Furey said drawing a dagger of her own agreeing to the Khan’s terms taking up the challenge, each of her warriors did the same.
---
Over the course of the next week each of the members of the Clan Smoke Jaguar party fought against members of Clan Nova Cat in simulated battles. Many of the warriors had been defeated in battle but eleven including Kimberly Higall had been successful so far. Today Khan Petra Furey herself proved that she was the warrior that they all believed in.
Moving her Shadow Cat OmniMech through the urban battlefield on the outskirts of Raider’s Roost the forty-five-ton OmniMech’s advanced active probe tracking a fast-moving Nova Cat Locust IIC. She twisted the OmniMech’s torso expecting the Locust to appear but nothing appeared “damned ECM!” She snapped realizing she had been tracking a fake signature as she realized the Locust IIC ran past her Mech’s back spitting fire pulse laser at the Shadow Cat’s back. Petra Furey launched her OmniMech into the sky carried by its jump jets twisting the Mech as it took off Furey opened fire with both arm mounted lasers, one of the green lasers burned down the side of the Locust while the other went wide. The Shadow Cat came in for a landing and Petra continued to stalk the lighter Mech, even though the Locust IIC was half the size of the Shadow Cat the pilot was clearly one of the Nova Cat’s best. Choosing an aggressive strategy, she ran the OmniMech through the ruined city making herself a harder target, the Locust was faster and was shrouded by ECM but the Shadow Cat had advanced sensors and Furey was confident in her abilities.
As she prowled the area searching for her prey the two Mechs stumbled into each other on one of the broken streets. The Locust pilot unleashed a volley of pulse lasers the sensors indicating that had they been at full strength they would have burned several parts of the armour but failed to penetrate the armour. Petra’s returned fire with a simulated gauss rifle shot which simulated a torso hit, the gauss slug would have penetrated deeply into the Locust and damaged the fusion engine irreparably. With the Locust disabled Petra had proven that she was a Clan MechWarrior in the eyes of her peers but that was not enough, moments later a Goshawk II walked past the disabled Locust and opened fire with its large laser and pulse lasers the large laser went over the low-slung Shadow Cat while the pulse lasers pitted the armour in several places.
With the gauss rifle recharging Petra opened fire with both lasers causing simulated burn damage to the Goshawk II’s right torso, Petra immediately jumped her OmniMech over the enemy Mech. The Goshawk II was a humanoid BattleMech which was built by the Snow Ravens but the Nova Cats had obviously gained this one through combat or trade. Landing behind the Goshawk II Petra twisted the BattleMech’s torso trying to bring the gauss rifle in line but the Goshawk II was already prepared blocking the twist with its arm the gauss slug flew harmlessly into the air heading into a nearby building. The Goshawk II’s pilot fired its pulse lasers at the Shadow Cat causing damage but still not penetrating the armour Petra screamed angrily turning her laser equipped arm onto the Goshawk II firing both lasers into the target. The Goshawk II staggered backwards slightly and Petra followed it up by stepping into the other Mech punching out with the same arm knocking the Goshawk backwards, the pilot was unprepared for the punch the Goshawk II stumbled away its arms flailing Petra took advantage launching another gauss slug into the medium BattleMech’s torso. She followed up with both lasers again further damaging the enemy Mech. Petra screamed viciously stepping forwards at the stumbling Goshawk II hitting the Shadow Cat with another gauss rifle shot at near point-blank range before activating the OmniMech’s jump jets jumping into the nearby enemy Mech kicking it knocking it to the ground as it fell the left leg twisted and snapped below the knee. While the weapons fire had been simulated to this point the physical attacks, she had engaged in had damaged the Goshawk and now it laid on the ground disabled.
“Two down” she said further rising her name’s honour just then a Nova Cat OmniMech, her final challenger stepped into the fray. Two particle cannon blasts rocked the Shadow Cat almost immediately as one manmade lightning blast hit the left leg and the other on the right arm. Immediately the seventy-ton OmniMech opened fire with three large lasers from the its other weapon arm these burned into the Shadow Cat’s arm which held the Mech’s gauss rifle. The weapon slowly pointed towards the ground its links to the cockpit disabled by the simulated damage. Ever the Smoke Jaguar Petra continued to fight defiantly firing her lasers into the enemy Nova Cat causing damage to the OmniMech. Unfortunately, it was nowhere near enough and the Nova Cat stepped forwards opening fire again with an “alpha strike” the simulated damage washed over the Shadow Cat disabling system after system as Petra was jolted around the cockpit before the whole cockpit went dark defeated.
---
Eight days later the Smoke Jaguar’s JumpShip, along with a Nova Cat Carrack-class Transport the Eon Trespass and a Drake-class Corvette the Foxhound jumped out of the Tortuga system heading into the periphery. The Eon Trespass carried two DropShips which served as transport for the Third Watch Cluster, the ship had also been chosen to support the mission carrying supplies and serving to transport anything that they encountered at the end on Huntress. The Drake-class was a capable Corvette which was carrying several assault DropShips which would escort the Corvette and the ground forces should it be needed. While the Nova Cat forces outnumbered those that the Smoke Jaguars had taken they had agreed that this was Khan Furey’s mission and planned on following her orders assuming that they did not put the Nova Cats in any undue danger.
-
Opening Ceremony, Liao Naval Arts Academy
Buenos Aires, Andurien Commonality
Capellan Confederation
7th October 3118
The Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation Dao-Shen Liao had travelled far from the Forbidden City on Sian to the system of Buenos Aires which was located deep within the nation. “Today, we add to the capabilities of this great nation.” He said addressing the twenty or thirty people who were gathered in the meeting room in recent years while the other nations had fought wars the Confederation and its Chancellor had quietly built up the Confederation’s strength. Today he stood in front of them, the symbol of the Confederation dressed in green and gold robes. “This space station will be a centre of teaching for the people of the Capellan Confederation and here we will improve the capabilities of our naval arm.” He explained from the crowd there was polite applause. “I will also open this academy to recruits from our allies the Magistracy of Canopus, our friends in the Taurian Concordat and our trading partners in the Fronc Reaches and Aurigan Collective.” He said surprising the crowd with the news “this is a state-of-the-art facility and we will collectively improve our capabilities against those that threaten us.” Dao-Shen explained “one thousand cadets will be trained here by the best pilots and ship commanders that the Capellan Confederation can muster. There will be aerospace fighters, DropShip and the WarShip CCSS Marcus Baxter on hand to assist in the training of the cadets, the defence of this station and of Buenos Aires.” He explained the Marcus Baxter was a Impavido-class Destroyer while it was not the strongest ship to defend the station and world it was more than Buenos Aires had before. The station and the additional resources added to this system’s defence were a significant investment by the Capellan Confederation.
Patrol
Sutama, District of Philadelphia
Draconis Combine
12th October 3118
While mercenaries were not a popular choice in the Draconis Combine they often leaned on the warriors of fortune in assisting in their defence, some that were hired by the Combine directly and some by individual worlds. The world of Sutama was one such which had augmented its defences with a combined arms mercenary battalion Butler’s Brigands. Today the Brigands exercised with the Sutama Militia and Major Christopher Butler’s Longbow Assault BattleMech marshalled the lines of his people in conjunction with the militia forces. The world of Sutama was a desolate one instead of being covered in vegetation the world was covered in red sand and rock, there were no running rivers on the world instead all the water was contained underground in massive lakes which also supported the only native lifeforms. Out of the red sand on the surface massive crystal formations grew from the ground instead of vegetation, the shards of rocks were sharp enough to injure infantrymen or shatter the lift skirts of a hovercraft. The atmosphere was barely breathable and with the sand regularly being blown around it was a good idea to always wear full face protection outside, the only thing that made Sutama a worthwhile prospect was the massive mineral deposits that came with the crystal formations and the adventure hunting expeditions which took place in the underground rivers and caves.
“Bravo-Bravo-One, this is Foxtrot Bravo-One!” Called in one of his company commanders off who was off to the left of the command.
“Go ahead Clive” Butler replied hearing the panic in the other man’s voice
“Sir, we’ve got a problem over here” Clive Harleston replied “a militia company just reported that they were fired on by someone carrying our colours. The local battalion commander is getting edgy.”
“All units accounted for?” Butler asked
“Affirmative, Major all my troops are in play and accounted for…” he reported in suddenly Christopher’s communication lines with the head of the militia were active.
“Tai-sa Staples” Butler responded to the militia commander
“Mercenary Major Butler, your forces have been attacking elements of the militia! I have casualties!” Tai-sa Staples screamed at Butler, unlike the mercenary commander who was in the field the Tai-sa was most likely onboard his command vehicle or back in the main deployment base.
“Sir, I have accounted for my troops in the area and I am currently accounting for others.” He said quickly sending a text message challenge to his company captains to check their troops.
“I am watching captured footage of your attacks Major and now there is a second report from the west!” Staples shouted angrily “Major your Brigands are to stand down immediately, your unit is under arrest, pending review.”
“Tai-sa, my forces are innocent in this…” he began when a Grand Dragon BattleMech opened fire on his Longbow, this one painted in militia colours. The eighty-five-ton support Mech rocked under the attack “Tai-sa, one of your Grand Dragon’s just fired on me!” He exclaimed in shock and anger turning his Mech towards the sixty-ton Grand Dragon as it lined up another shot, elsewhere in the line he saw other militia units turning on his Brigands. Swapping frequencies as the Grand Dragon fired again Christopher Butler made the fateful decision “Brigands, withdraw from the militia, defend yourselves of fired upon!” He ordered as his Longbow took more hits, he leaned into them and returned fire with a volley of long-range missile fire on the Grand Dragon. The forty missiles arced the short distance between the two Mechs and really could not miss, explosions landed all over and around the feet of the Grand Dragon as the sixty-ton Mech weathered the damage.
---
From behind a crystal covered ridge Harold Nakayama watched as the militia and Brigands lines fell to pieces from the cockpit of his Akuma BattleMech. “All Blood hold” he ordered swapping frequencies “Chikai Lance, break contact when you can, we are ready to support.” The night before four members of Nakayama’s Blood had infiltrated the militia lines replacing four members of the command who had been taken out by members of the Blood when they were on leave, due to the requirement to wear full face masks outside they had passed barely noticed as they made their way into the unit. Now in the middle of nowhere far from the base or any support they had sown chaos in the militia and mercenary lines.
“We’re doing our best” Chu-I Carlos Itou communicated instead of his normal Naginata he had commandeered a militia Shadow Hawk. Nakayama could see the fifty-five-ton Mech’s autocannon and short-range missiles engaging enemy targets. Svein Laaksonen’s Grand Dragon staggered out of the mercenary lines its armour pitted and both arms missing, unlike the others Svein was piloting a Mech like his own in the blood, now the militia-coloured machine was barely operational. “Gisei Lance, cover fire.”
From the crystalline ridge Gisei Lance was painted like Butler’s Brigands BattleMech and was comprised of a Hatamoto-Hi, Catapult, Penetrator and Ninja-To. Each stepped up and between them they began to lay down cover fire in the form of long-range lasers, missiles and particle cannons a pursuing militia Phoenix Hawk staggered and fell the Grand Dragon continued its retreat. Behind the Shadow Hawk staggered out of the line and followed the Grand Dragon, Chikai Lance continued do retreat.
“Chikai Four to Chikai One, I’m not making it out of this fight.” The last lance member said Harold Nakayama could not see the Griffin BattleMech.
“I can extract you” Carlos Itou replied spinning his Shadow Hawk around, he was prepared to re-enter the fight.
“Negative, left leg is gone, I will not be taken alive for the blood…” he communicated and then the line went dead.
“Four… Four! Four!” Itou shouted angrily but the other pilot was gone. Finally, the command sighted the last of the four undercover pilots Leesel Leander who was fighting her way clear of the lines in her Vagabond BattleMech running as its anti-missile systems shot down missiles which were converging on it. The armless Vagabond was not engaging any of the targets around it instead just running at pace Gisei Lance opened fire providing cover fire as the Vagabond smashed small crystal formations dodging incoming weapons fire. The surviving members of Chikai Lance passed through the Nakayama’s Blood’s lines and continued to run.
“Blood withdraw” Nakayama ordered and Gisei Lance slowly stepped down from the line while the mercenaries and militia continued to beat each other into oblivion. The plan had been simple sow discord between the militia and the mercenary force they had hired, whatever the outcome of the battle the fighting had expanded now and Butler’s Brigands would not survive the battle, which was perfect for Harold Nakayama and his personal crusade against mercenary commands.
Scouting Mission
Temple of the Muses, Roche
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
19th October 3118
After everything Clan Goliath Scorpion had been through with the infighting between the Clans and the Society the one value, they had held above all else was their reverence for everything that came from the Star League era. While the Scorpions no longer had an entire galaxy of Seekers searching for relics from bygone areas, they still had the Crimson Seeker Trinary which while fighting the Society would try to salvage anything they could from the past.
Having being dropped onto the world of Roache the Crimson Seeker Trinary had headed towards the Temple of the Muses, a facility once held exclusively by the Scorpions, a place which played homage to the relics found by Goliath Scorpions. Below the facility was an enormous bunker which contained other relics the Scorpions had collected while the Crimson Seeker had no plans on clearing out the bunker today they were planning on checking its integrity.
Moving in Star Colonel Fiona Henriquez moved her Summoner OmniMech closer to the Temple her seventy ton OmniMech’s sensors began to scan the ruins of the Temple a tear ran down Henriquez face seeing the facility “the stavags demolished it.” She stated angrily looking at the facility. “They most likely removed the display items.”
“Aff Star Colonel, but the Bunker’s signal is still working indicating the bunker is intact.” Star Captain Robert Scott commented his Phantom’s sensors the best of the leading Mechs.
“Aff, these relics are not worth the Society’s time.” Someone commented “they are more interested in destroying these worlds.”
“Aff, we should take the fight to them, raise the Society from these sands.” Star Captain Scott responded “Star Colonel, the bunker’s entrance is buried under what looks like ferrocrete “the stavags could not get in so they sealed it.”
“Just as well they didn’t get in or they would have realized they had bit off more than they can chew” one of the warriors said in her Summoner’s cockpit Henriquez shuddered at the use of a contraction but she knew what the warrior meant while the Clans hated fixed defences and traps seeing them as dishonourable the Goliath Scorpions had no qualms of using them to defend their facility. The other Clans had no interest in the bunker so the traps did not violate their honour, instead the traps were intended on stopping the Clan Dark Caste, anyone from the Inner Sphere or more recently the Society.
“We will check the secondary entrance before withdrawing, our mission is the relics safety.” Fiona Henriquez commanded “Alfonzo are you ready, quiaff?” she said glancing over at the other OmniMech which stood ready.
“Aff” he responded his Ebon Jaguar was equipped with underwater maneuvering units which would allow his Mech to check the secret secondary entrance.
“Go, we will continue to make it look like we are searching here.” She said, there could still be observers somewhere watching her unit's movements.
“Aff, Star Colonel” the MechWarrior replied turning his Ebon Jaguar towards the east he walked through the undergrowth and into the nearby water there the sixty-five-ton Mech turned into an effective submarine as the UMUs gave the pilot far more control than any regular Mech would have. Alfonso put his Mech into a spiralling dive heading down nearly two hundred metres until landing on the bottom, there was a very specific way to approach the bunker’s secondary entrance. Stepping forwards he looked over he saw a large submarine hovering near the bunker’s entrance, alongside were two smaller vessels while below there was a group of engineers in diving gear near the entrance of the facility. “Star Colonel, there are Society Submarines at the entrance along with the engineers.” Alfonso reported.
“We can deploy more units” Henriquez offered other members of the unit carried weaponry that could be used underwater but none of them had the UMUs.
“Negative Star Colonel, other units would not be maneuverable enough, this sub looks like is designed to support the engineers, minimal armaments. The bigger threat is two Star League-era Manta Submarines I hate to sink them but…”
“Do what you need to, Alfonso.” Henriquez ordered it hurt damage the craft that should be museum pieces but it needed to be done.
“Aff, Star Colonel, if I cannot stop them, I will stop them gaining access.” He said walking the Ebon Jaguar off the ledge he let the sixty-five-ton Mech to sink deeper as he entered range, he opened fire with both long-range torpedo launchers. Thirty torpedoes swam in on the engineers working near the entrance bombarding their positions with explosives. The larger submarine opened fire with its own torpedoes targeted on the Ebon Jaguar while the two Mantas accelerated towards it firing their lasers. One laser missed completely while the other struck the Ebon Jaguar’s leg, moments later the torpedoes struck the Ebon Jaguar’s torso. With the two submarines incoming Alfonso targeted each with a large pulse laser and salvo of long-range torpedoes at each.
The two submarines opened fire on the Ebon Jaguar again with their lasers striking a leg and the torso area again more torpedoes from the larger submarine came in but they missed wide. Alfonso looked at his Mech’s armour coverage and saw the lasers were beginning to weaken it, a breach would lead to an area of the Mech being flooded. The two Manta’s opened fire with their short-range torpedoes only a few hit the Mech’s arms before the two Manta’s sped past the OmniMech. Alfonso triggered his UMUs spinning the Ebon Jaguar on the spot he opened fire with his torpedoes and pulse lasers again this time concentrating on the backs of one of the submarines. The thirty torpedoes and two pulse lasers were enough to penetrate the armour causing several breaches which caused one of the Manta’s to explode.
With his Mech’s back turned to the larger submarine Alfonso was braced for the torpedoes to the back. The concussive blasts of the torpedoes exploding forced the Ebon Jaguar forwards the UMUs struggling to keep the BattleMech stable in the water. The remaining Manta turned quickly and opened fire with its laser again but missed giving Alfonso the opening another volley of torpedoes and pulse laser blasts knocked out the remaining Manta as torpedoes and pulse lasers penetrated the armour and blew up the ammunition reserves. His concentration on the Mantas however allowed the larger submarine to target his back again, this time torpedoes hit the rear of the OmniMech causing damage to the rear of the torso penetrating the armour.
“Star Colonel, both Mantas are down but my Mech has sprung a leak and I cannot disable the larger sub. I am going to eliminate their ability to access the secondary entrance.” He said in a matter-of-fact way he turned his Mech targeting the larger submarine with the pulse lasers and torpedoes he’d used before but the larger submarine had the armour to take it and it had anti-missile point defence lasers to protect it. “Fine, I don’t need to sink you anyway” Alfonso said angrily moving his focus to target the ledges above the secondary entrance he opened fire with his Mech’s weapons damaging the rocks above the entrance. Systems of the Ebon Jaguar were beginning to fail as the OmniMech passed under the submarine Alfonso removed the safeties from the fusion engine even as it filled with water. “You will not get through this” Alfonso said slamming the Ebon Jaguar into the walls above the entrance even as more torpedoes arced in on the OmniMech, it was too late to stop Alfonso though as the fusion engine exploded destabilising the rocks above the secondary entrance.
On the surface above the explosion and shock was felt as water flew into the air above the battle site. Suddenly and slowly the ground disappeared as the explosion caused by the 325 rated fusion engine in the heart of the Ebon Jaguar caused a massive cave in burying the only other entrance to the vault. “Until Roche is liberated no-one will access the vault, move out and remember Alfonso’s sacrifice.” Fiona Henriquez cursed, due to the lack of resources she had only been able to equip Alfonso’s OmniMech with UMUs if they had been able to outfit more Mechs or Battle Armour then the MechWarrior might not be dead and the submarine may have been stopped, she would speak with the Khan and Quartermasters when they returned to Arizona, this couldn’t happen again.
-
Construction Facility, Madeira BattleMech Factory
Guldra, Southern Continent
Aurigan Collective, Periphery
8th November 3118
The world of Guldra was a pleasant located near the centre of the Aurigan Collective it was the home of the Madeira family who were one of the largest mercantile families in the region. The Madeira family were also the holders of the Madeira Archives which was the most extensive library of history and culture in the entire Aurigan Collective. The Madeira family were also one of the largest supporters of the Arano family in the entire region.
The Aurigan Collective was a relatively safe place in the periphery, they had weapons but they also had peace agreements with the Capellan Confederation, Taurian Concordat, the Magistracy of Canopus and the Fronc Reaches this had led to the Aurigan Collective being a centre for refugees as many saw it as a haven in the periphery. While a population boom was costing the worlds of the Aurigan Collective millions of C-Bills in providing housing and jobs for these new arrivals some of them also provided the Aurigan Collective with knowledge and access to resources which they would not have had access to otherwise. These factors had led the Emir of Guldra Abrax Madeira to his current situation dressed in the formal wear of the leader of Guldra the Emir’s outfit consisted of a golden squared off crown with two short spires and one larger one in the middle. His robe was black and rimmed in gold, his clothing under the robe was a gold-coloured business suit.
Standing in the Mechbay adjacent to the newly finished factory Abrax Madeira looked up at the advanced BattleMech which stood in front of him it was named the Kharon and it was built with Clan technology, perhaps the most unique BattleMech in the entire Aurigan Collective. The Kharon was easily more than a century beyond what could be produced in the entire realm “Impressive is it not Emir, Quiaff?” a figure asked off to the side Madeira turned towards the shorter woman she was of Hispanic descent and in her early thirties, she had long brown hair and brown eyes with delicate features. She wore a dark top shirt, with a leather MechWarrior’s jacket over it and blue work jeans. On the leather jacket was the insignia of Clan Mountain Wolf but she was not a MechWarrior, she was a scientist born in the Lyran Commonwealth to the Mountain Wolf faction before its destruction at the hands of the Lyran Commonwealth
“Yes, Marcela it is” he said looking at it the seventy-ton BattleMech “but so is the BattleMech we have designed from its bones.” She said, the BattleMech they had designed and build on Guldra was a pale imitation of the BattleMech which stood in front of them but it was the best that the Aurigan people could do, and it had a couple of features that the Clan Mech did not have.
“Where is Anthony Wolf?” the Emir asked wondering about the MechWarrior, her protector who had piloted the BattleMech and brought it, Marcela and the BattleMech’s schematics to the Aurigan Collective.
“He is asleep” Marcela said her tone betraying her disgust, she had coupled with him tonight and after a coupling Anthony always slept soundly. Anthony was fifteen years Marcela’s senior he wasn’t a very creative MechWarrior nor would he have had the guts to betray his Clan and run away with Marcela without her encouragement.
“I assume he will not be a problem” the Amir knew Marcela had used Anthony to get out of Mountain Wolf territory, she had used her body to win his heart and then twisted his mind to her will while they travelled, but her heart belonged to another to the Amir.
“Neg, my Amir” Marcela said “he is prepared for the Prototype’s demonstration tomorrow.”
“Good, good, and my people are ready for when he returns here.” The Amir said quietly looking back at the Kharon “they will make it quick.” Abrax Madeira whispered despite there only been the two of them there.
“He would prefer a MechWarriors death but there is no need to waste resources. Quineg?”
“No, I would rather not kill him…”
“But if he were to find out about our involvement, he would be a wildcard and a threat.” Marcela cautioned
“I am aware of your concerns; it will be done.” He promised her his hand mingling with her “you have brought a great weapon to my nation. We will build them and strengthen the Aurigan Collective, together. I think I will take this Mech as my own.” He said intending on taking everything that once belonged to the Clan MechWarrior.
The next day the prototype Kharon was piloted by MechWarrior Anthony the seventy-ton BattleMech performed perfectly the design was a solid heavy design. Unlike the Clan design which had an extra-light the Aurigan Kharon used a standard fusion engine which led to a slower top speed of only sixty-four kilometres per hour. Unlike the Kharon which featured heavy large lasers and extended range lasers the locally produced BattleMech had a single large laser backed up with a Plasma Rifle, in the periphery where vehicles and infantry would be a more common threat the plasma rifle would be very effective, both weapons were mounted on the right arm for full flexibility. For support missions the local Kharon featured an over the right shoulder mounted fifteen-tube long range missile launcher unlike the Clan build design which had an Advanced Tactical Missile launcher with twelve tubes. Finally, the main weapons were backed up with two medium lasers, one a pulse model, mounted in the left arm and a Guardian Electronic Counter Measures suite like the back-up weapons on the original Kharon.
For thirty minutes MechWarrior Anthony shows the new BattleMech’s capabilities destroying several stationary targets, two targets which were moving on tracks and a target suspended below a VTOL before retiring the Mechbay. There he was expecting a warm welcome after a successful demonstration but instead he was welcomed with a white hot vibroblade to the stomach. While someone could survive a vibroblade strike the shock of the unexpected strike gave the assassin time to withdraw the strike and stab Anthony again in the stomach, the damage done by the strikes and bloodloss were enough to make recovery impossible. The Aurigan Collective had a capable new BattleMech but the man who brought it there would not see its general deployment.
Order of Sortek Fieldbase, Mobile Maintenace Cradle
Delacambre, Draconis March
Federated Suns, Periphery
14th November 3118
There were not many systems in House Davion this deep into the periphery. Located deep within the outback of the Draconis March the system of Delacambre was in space between territory claimed by the Snow Ravens and Nova Cats but not on either’s border. Due to this remoteness and lack of heavy industry the world had no line defence units and instead was defended by a locally funded and equipped militia and whatever units happened to be passing through. Today the Order of Sortek Detached Lance was on the world, officially the lance of three Mechs had only passed through to resupply with food and munitions but they had also been training with the local militia sharing some of their wisdom and training. When a pirate force had arrived in system Leftenant Laure Bieganski, the lance’s commander, had volunteered their assistance immediately.
In battle against the pirate force the three front-line BattleMechs fought like they were twice as numerous and had helped repel the pirate force after several hours of fighting. While the lance was not a mercenary formation, the Order of Sortek were officially members of the AFFS, the Governor of the world had decided to award the Order with a salvaged BattleMech which now was held up by the maintenance cradle.
“What do we have? Tech Gaubert” Leftenant Bieganski asked the tech who was on the maintenance cradle, looking at the BattleMech she knew what she thought it was it looked like a Rifleman but there was something off and it was too heavy.
“Believe it or not Leftenant this is eighty tons of Rifleman II. Or it was once upon a time.”
“A Rifleman II?”
“She’s SLDF Leftenant, through and through to the structure there’s numbers on this Mech that tells us she was originally built in 2773.” Brigitte Gaubert said
“That Mech’s almost is almost three hundred and fifty years old?” She asked looking at the BattleMech in shock “they were built to last.” She whispered
“Oh, they were at that Leftenant, the problem is the SLDF abandoned this beast in probably during the reunification war. Whoever found it did not know how to repair Endo Steel, they didn’t have a spare extra-light so it has a smaller standard fusion engine and they didn’t have LBX autocannons.” The tech explained reaching over to point at the Mech’s chest and arms.
“So, we have some sort of hybrid?” Bieganski groaned she hated FrankenMechs when techs took parts of one Mech and mated them with another, they were always very unpredictable.
“Sort of Leftenant” Gaubert admitted “but whoever did it is a fricken genius.” She admired “they somehow mated standard structure to the Endo creating an Endo-composite I’d guess from an Awesome, you can see it around the shoulders and upper chest mainly” she said. “It is not nearly as strong to as your normal structure but still lighter. You can see it around the upper torso, they probably made the change when they ripped the old engine out.” It hit Laure Bueganski like someone had hit her, there were no extensions to the torso instead the armour curved downwards towards the torso mounted lasers “you’ve got standard autocannons replacing the LBXs, two medium lasers in the torso and someone’s bolted a small laser to the outside of one of the autocannons. Honestly, I’d rather take off the small laser and have more armour she’ll only carry twelve tons total once we get her repaired fully.” Bieganski nodded twelve tons of armour on an eighty-ton Mech was not a lot of
“Something you can do?”
“Not out here boss, maybe if we ever land somewhere with a full Mechbay I could have a look at it, honestly this thing is carrying too much ammunition, hasn’t got any CASE and there is not nearly enough armour. The SLDF might have been able to field companies of the same Mech and could afford acceptable losses from under-armoured Mechs but we cannot.”
“Agreed, but if you can get it operational, we can use her as an anchor. She’s slower than our other Mechs but heavier.” Laure said looking at the hulk “Mr Kelly, you think you can pilot her?” She asked looking up at one of Gaubert’s assistants. While acting as a tech now Scott Kelly, formerly a member of one of the Dragon Lords regiments was trained as a MechWarrior first.
“Yes, sir Leftenant”
“Then once its operational you get to walk her to the DropShip, if you don’t drop it on its face, you’re a member of the lance.” Bieganski said offering the applicant a chance to prove his abilities in battle. The other applicant they had in the unit Charlie Johnston would get a chance in the future; it was an unfortunate fact.
“Thank you, Leftenant, I’ll do my best”
“You don’t need your best today, Kelly, but I’ll expect that in battle.” The Order’s lance would not be staying on Delacambre, that was not the job of this lance, soon they would leave heading to another system bringing the teachings of their Order to more who needed it.
Command Deck, CBS Rocinate (Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser)
Nadir Point, Priori
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
22nd November 3118
The Clan Homeworlds were a battleground both in space and on the ground. Clan Blood Spirit and Clan Goliath Scorpion continued to try and liberate systems from the Society, the Clan’s self-made menace. To keep the pressure on the Society and continue to blood their troops Clan Blood Spirit planned to liberate the Priori system and capture a significant ProtoMech production and training facility which dominated a large part of the north eastern island.
In a flash of light, the CBS Rocinate, Clan Blood Spirit’s last Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, lead a group of JumpShips into the Priori system arriving at the Nadir point and immediately came under naval autocannon fire. “REPORT!” Star Commodore Phoenix Keller screamed as the vessel was rocked.
“Sir, two unidentified WarShips below the system’s plain.”
“Cut loose the Jump Sail. Set an intercept course now, Assault DropShips with us all others scatter!” Keller ordered the WarShip’s jump sail fell away from the ship and the engines kicked into drive. “Weapons stations fire at will!”
“Sir, sensors suggest two more WarShips of the same class are at the Zenith point! They are engaging our DropShips.” The operator reported “sir, sensors now tentatively identify as Molniya-class Vessels.” He explained as the Rocinate’s own autocannons engaged at long range, there were a couple of hits but at this range they were struggling to zone in on their targets. Some distance from the Rocinate the two enemy WarShips hard their main engines facing the Rocinate with their rear mounted autocannon arrays targeting the WarShip. From their mid-ships aerospace fighters dropped from the aerospace bays.
“It’s a trap!” Keller called out realizing that the Society must have been tipped off about this offensive since the liberation of six of the homeworlds by the two Clans still operating in the Kerensky Cluster there had been an increase in intelligence leaks. “Communicate with all troopships, remain as close to the JumpShips as they can!” Keller ordered as the Rocinate rocked again.
“Helm roll the hull!” The vessel’s executive officer ordered “weapons break them!” He ordered as the Rocinate spun in space, presenting fresh armour at the enemy ships, autocannons fired from turrets around the hull and capital missiles left launchers amid-ships. “Sir, with your permission?”
“Aff” Keller nodded “sensors, why a tentative identification?” He asked thinking about what had been said
“This is a nuclear launch order!” the executive officer called out in the background, the Homeworld Clans had long realized that they could not match the Society in WarShip production, there was only one way to stay relevant.
“Sir, the ships are definently based on the Molniya-class hull but they have been modified, they have significantly more weapon emplacements and it would appear thicker hulls. The conclusion must be these have been newly built.” He explained as the Rocinate launched a nuclear tipped capital missile along with it several other missiles flew from the tubes acting as decoys. As aerospace fighters and DropShips duelled between the closing WarShips the missiles flew in on one of the enemy WarShips immediately hull mounted anti-missile systems and lasers opened fire attempting to swat the incoming capital missiles from space. Small explosions filled the air as several of the missiles were destroyed and then there was one almighty explosion as the nuclear tipped White Shark Missile struck the two-hundred-and-fourty thousand-ton WarShip’s hull. A flash of light and explosive power enveloped the Molniya and the small ship’s hull buckled under the attack as more naval weapons flew and penetrated the hull.
The remaining Molniya continued to fire back at the Rocinate with naval class autocannons, missiles and lasers engaging the larger WarShip but now the Black Lion was closer it switched to its heavier autocannons presenting a heavy broadside of firepower. The Clan gunners were intent on destroying the enemy WarShip in a single pass. “Have all DropShips rendezvous with JumpShips, JumpShips are to Jump when Collars are full” Keller ordered “any JumpShip with spare collars are to remain, we might need them for the Zenith Point DropShips.” He said as the Rocinate blew past the Molniya destroying the smaller ship. “Communications, transmit all date we have on that Molniya, I want it to be taken out of this system, the Clan needs to know what we found here.” He ordered the Rocinate had an HPG but the Blood Spirit WarShips only used them to communicate with each other and liberated homeworlds Colleen and Arizona, the two capitol worlds of the two Clans, were not on the HPG network meaning there was no chance of a transmission being tracked.
Past the destroyed ships the Rocinate twisted in space and its main drives activated boosting the ship at speed towards the Zenith point rapidly leaving the aerospace fighters and DropShips to complete their own battles against the remaining Society craft. “Engineering, vessel status?” Keller asked as the WarShip accelerated heavily but was far from the fighting.
“Sir, we are down to approximately 75% autocannon ammunition, 50% capital missiles, 3 nuclear warheads remain, forward armour at 38%, port armour at 49%, aft armour at 88%.”
“XO, before contact with the enemy turn the ship, I want to go right between them” Keller ordered from the Rocinate’s holotank he could see the two remaining Molniya WarShips were engaged with multiple DropShips from the Blood Spirit flotilla. With no WarShip escort they had been forced to throw themselves at the WarShips and try to break through. Keller had argued that another of the Blood Spirit WarShips needed to be deployed on this mission but Caraxes had recently been ambushed by two Society WarShips and was under repair at Colleen. The only other available WarShips were the Blood Spirits own Molniya-class WarShips were of the original build of the class and they were seen as only good for defensive work.
“Aff, Star Commodore, helm at my count minus… three, pivot manoeuvre using starboard thrusters present our best to the enemy.” He ordered as the two ships they were approaching realized that the Rocinate was burning in on them at pace “weapons all aft weapons as we approach then both broadsides as we pass between them.” He said looking around the command deck seeing their faces “we are going to burn going between them, but it is the only way we can engage both of them! Out Blood may run but our Spirits remain HIGH!”
“SEYLA!” Everyone on the deck repeated in unison as the ship continued to be rocked by incoming fire the ship began its rotation showing fresh armour their target and then the ship’s main engines as it completed its pivot and the rear weapons activated engaging their targets.
With their engines now pointing at the enemy the Rocinate was presenting critical systems towards the enemy but also heavier armour protecting the crew from harm. Enemy weapons fire slammed into the Rocinate damaging several systems but the Black Lion had already built-up significant speed approaching the enemy targets and many of the shots missed. The WarShip passed between the two smaller Corvettes and the entire side of the Rocinate appeared to be on fire from both the vessel receiving fire and the WarShip giving out heavy punishment on the two Molinya-class vessels. The Rocinate could not take such punishment without heavy damage of its own the crippled ship continued on its course away from the two Corvettes leaving the two broken hulls behind them.
“Status” Keller coughed picking himself up off the deck, he felt the gravity beginning to fail as the engines lost power. Looking around the command deck he noticed several crewmen were dead after the command deck had taken damage during the final enemy attacks. He glanced over and saw his XO was among the dead “Jonas” Keller whispered seeing the young unblooded man, Keller had believed he could one day replace him, but in this game death did not discriminate. “Keller all hands, I need help on the Command Deck, medics and crewmen with Command training get up here.” He said glancing around the darkened two-tiered deck, he realized that the holo-tank was dead knocked offline along with dozens of other systems, he saw one or two members of the crew were alive and had retaken control over their stations. “Angela, tell me something good” he asked the young woman at the engineering deck dropping all pretence of professionalism.
“Massive damage Star Commodore” she said, “we have breaches on multiple decks, most of our broadside and after weapons are gone.” She said “engines took a hit; we are down to half a G left for deacceleration.”
“That’s something, bring online the engine bring it up to half a G slowly, we don’t need to burn out the damned engine!” He ordered his voice breaking with joy that they had something “the jump drive?”
“Damaged” Angela answered as crewmen entered the Command Deck some of tending to the injured some trying to take control over the ship. “But operational, we will be better off out of this system than remaining.”
“Affirmative, agreed, communications? Sensors?”
“All communications are down, we only have internal, sensors…” she said glancing at the sensor displays and a feral smile appeared on her lips “Star Commodore, we paid a price but both corvettes have been destroyed the Rocinate has four WarShip kills today.”
“Outstanding, they might be able to build them in numbers but they don’t have our skills.” Keller said looking around the bridge triumphantly as two crewmen carried Jonas out of the Command Deck Keller triggered the internal comms. “Crew of the Rocinate, this vessel and her crew have paid the price for our victory today but we have saved most of our assault forces with our skills and our sacrifices. Rocinate, is not lost, she will rise again as will this crew. Look to the warriors around you, this crew have done our Clan proud today and will be remembered in our Remembrance.”
Protest March, Central Bazaar of Marion
Loxley, Sherwood
Crucis March, Federated Suns
26th November 3118
It felt good to be home Jonas Tyler, the Earl of Sherwood-in-exile, but Sherwood was not the world that he remembered. The world had long been occupied by Clan Nova Cat and much had changed during that time the Nova Cats had brought industry to the world, the former Jabberwocky Headquarters and IndustrialMech plant was now a BattleMech factory capable of building Pack Hunter, Ocelot and Jenner IIC BattleMechs. The Nova Cats had also reopened mines across the continent deep in the Watling and Ermine Mountains which fed raw material into the BattleMech factory and built a MagLev to transport the goods and enlarged the Spaceport all of which employed hundreds of people. Now rumours were abounded on Sherwood that the Federated Suns planned on packing up the BattleMech factory and transferring it all off planet away from the Nova Cat border. The factory was a prize and one the Federated Suns wanted to keep it regardless of cost.
Facing the prospect of people masses of the people being out of work following the closure of the factory and the mines that supported it the people were protesting and the Central Bazaar was just one of those places. Named as it was at the centre of Loxley, the planetary capital, the Bazaar was so named because it brought multiple cultures together the area was generally rectangular in shape and could be entered from either side. On the east and west side there was a tall set of stairs with an observation platform at the top. In the middle of the low area there were dozens of stalls which sold food, drink, clothing, and other goods.
Walking across the bazaar Jonas Tyler walked up the eastern stairs stopping near the top he turned to face the bazaar and sat down watching the activity below, all around the stalls there were literally hundreds of people standing to protest the changes the Federated Suns were making and planning to make. Tyler was shocked to see that several of the flags waved by the protesters were Federated Suns flags which had been crossed out or defaced while even more surprising several other flags carried the rest of Clan Nova Cat, the Clan’s roaring cat set against a starburst. Many were clearing “for” the Clan invaders, he could not believe his eyes, how much the people of his homeworld had changed.
Suddenly on the western stairs several AFFS riot troops moved into position at the top of the stairs in full gear. The troops remained in position silently watching the protest crowd then suddenly near the bottom of the eastern stairs there was an explosion like a grenade had gone off, Tyler rolled backwards from the explosion rolling back onto his feet staying low below at the bottom of the stairs he saw at least a dozen were injured, he immediately began to move forwards down the stairs to help the injured but he stopped and looked up. All around him the crowd were moving in several different directions including towards the AFFS riot troopers who instead of trying to help moved down one step closer banging their riot shields with the batons. Some of the crowd ran away from the riot troopers while others ran straight towards the riot troopers who pushed them back with their shields several people fell backwards some of them being injured the troopers slammed their batons against their shields again and moved forward one more time.
“Earl Tyler, you should come should come with me” a mysterious woman said she wore a red and white summer dress, her dark hair was highlighted blonde and she had a Latino complexion.
“I’m sorry, do we know each other?” Tyler asked watching the troopers move down another step, the pro-Nova Cat protesters were now resisting their movements. Several first responders had moved in to support those that were injured, Tyler stood watching the scene of chaos as it continued to get worse.
“Neg, Earl Jonas Tyler, but my people respect you.” The woman said her use of the Clan term informed him of who she was, a member of Clan Nova Cat.
“Did you set this up!” He asked angrily looking around the scene the troopers and the crowd were continuing to engage each other while innocent bystanders were running out of the area.
“Neg, if we wanted to take Sherwood back with force, we would use a Trial of Possession. As you did, this is the work of people who do not want peace on Sherwood and want an excuse to rule this world with a stronger hand.”
“The Governor?” He asked because his family were technically still in exile and he had failed to gain control of the world for the Federated Suns Field Marshal Paul Bowman had assigned a temporary military governor to the system.
“I do not know; we should go now” she said leading him away from the bazaar nearby DS7-FC Successor Armoured Supercar the six wheeled vehicle was far flashier than he expected as they approached the gull-wing doors swung upwards.
“A little flashy?” Tyler asked looking at the vehicle for a moment as the younger woman got into the vehicle while it was the fusion powered version of the vehicle the Successor was still a high-end civilian vehicle produced by Dreadnaught Interstellar Industries on Acala III for one to be this far out should be a red-flag for anyone watching.
“It is part of my cover as an Executive Director of Sherwood BattleMech Incorporated.” She said smirking getting into the vehicle, he followed her shocked at what he was hearing. Sitting inside both doors slowly closed sealing them inside she reached over and started the vehicle also activating the car’s inbuilt wireless radio.
On the news the riot was already making the news, along with a terrorist attack and further riots elsewhere. “My name is Libby, as you have no doubt guessed I am a member of Clan Nova Cat’s Watch” she said moving the Fuel-Cell powered vehicle away from the city centre. “Earl Tyler, we do not want a Civil War on Sherwood, this world was ours for sometime and these people benefited Clan Nova Cat’s presence.” She explained “the Federated Suns does not mean Sherwood harm, I can guarantee you that but we felt this could happen.”
“Could happen!” Jonas snapped as the vehicle sped out of the city “a fracking grenade exploded at a protest and now we have a riots! People have been injured potentially killed.” He said the vehicle was travelling quickly through a wooded area there was a stream of traffic heading out of the city and also AFFS APCs heading into the city he guessed with additional security troops. The Successor sped through the Woods of Sherwood which surrounded Marion before turning off the main road entering a secluded gated residential area, the radio was still broadcasting information on trouble flair ups in the city and beyond. “How can you be so cavalier with people’s lives?”
“We have done nothing. We treated the population of this world well, it is not our fault that the population believe that they did a better job than the Federated Suns is. Our intention was not to start something here, they people are doing it all by themselves.” She said drawing the vehicle up to a gated residence. Moments later the gate opened allowing the vehicle to enter. “Earl Tyler someone else is pulling the population’s strings, they want to make it appear that it is not viable for the facilities my Clan built here to remain and in turn winding up the population into a frenzy.” She said stopping the vehicle in front of a luxurious residence the gate closed behind them and around the compound Tyler could see several troopers were hidden. “The grenade was only the beginning.”
“What is your plan?”
“We wish to help keep the peace on Sherwood Earl Tyler” Libby said stepping out of the Successor “we cannot do it ourselves; we need your help.”
“I will not assist you in retaking this system.” He said defiantly standing beside the vehicle as Libby began to head towards the building.
“Neg, we know you will not, but that choice may be beyond your capabilities to influence. How Sherwood makes that choice, and what remains of it, may however remain in your hands.” She said entering leaving the door open Tyler headed away from the vehicle into the building. Tyler stood beside the Successor for several moments and then followed her inside as the rain began to fall he wasn’t about to allow his home to fall into internal conflict, especially when he had now identified a Clan intelligence unit on the planet.
This is a month of thanks from the AU with thanks.
The Kharon is an Inner Sphere BattleMech based on the BattleMech seen in the Fan-made Society XTRO, which I'll post separately
The Molniya is a modified variant of the canon WarShip, which I'll post separately
Jonas Tyler is a character based on the canon product Tour of the Stars: Sherwood
And finally the Successor Supercar is from Fanbook: Operation Lancaster
So my thanks to the canon writers, the fan writers and the readers of this ti
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Very cool Dragon Cat!
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Nice
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Ending 3118 - I've got some housekeeping to do with my support documentation but once that's sorted I'll post the current map, units and WarShip listings
Public unrest
Sherwood, Crucis March
Federated Suns
1st December 3118
The rioting on Sherwood had continued for days after Jonas Tyler’s “rescue” by the Nova Cat Watch team now he began to understand the troubles that Sherwood was facing and what he had missed when he was away from the system. There were more and more people rising in support of Clan Nova Cat’s return to the system, which shocked Jonas, this rising support was also causing tension for with those who had openly welcomed the Federated Suns return.
Jonas had spent time with the Nova Cats, mostly Libby but also some of the others who were willing to speak, from what he could understand that while the Nova Cats were willing to accept the Federated Suns had won a Trial of Possession for the world and everything on it but this acceptance came at a price. The Watch’s presence was officially one of observation but in the last few days Tyler had seen that they were also capable of being an actionable force should they need to.
“I thought you Clanners were supposed to be honourable, this whole outfit doesn’t feel very honourable.” Jonas said he was sitting in Libby’s lounge with the Clan woman who was taking a break from her spying.
“We are not” Libby said glancing down “the Watch are not honourable warriors, we are the Watch, we would not be welcome on the field with members of our Clan.” She said quietly looking away.
“I heard your Khan was once a member of your Watch, how can that not bring your people honour?” Jonas asked wondering how the two could be separated. In his efforts to release Sherwood from the grips of Clan Nova Cat he had studied all of the information he could on the Federated Suns neighbours preparing himself for the time when he would face them.
“Aff, but our ways are not your ways. Khan Canin Rosse is different from other members of the Watch; within our Clan he was a ristar” she said seeing some recognition on Jonas face “you have heard the term Quiaff?” he nodded “the Khan chose to join the Watch and serve as he knew it would bring him closer to the Inner Sphere and our leadership in the days when the Watch was needed. He happened to be in the right place at the right time for our encounter with the Fox’s Teeth which catapult his unit into the spotlight within out Clan. A spotlight on which he rode to the leadership of our Clan.”
“Impressive” Jonas admitted, considering Canin Rosse was one of the longest and oldest serving Khans and he continued to hold an impressive reputation within the Clans showed exactly how good the Khan was. The Watch’s presence here also showed that while the Nova Cats held an impressive marital presence, they were also willing to do things which were not within the honour of their Clan. “How does that effect Sherwood?” this world was won by Clan Nova Cat from the Federated Suns and became a Nova Cat territory. Now it has been won again and it is once again a Federated Suns territory, by the agreements made between your people and the Federated Suns this world does not belong to your people.”
“Another Trial of Possession” she answered she answered simply as if the Trials were an answer to everything.
“But there are no Nova Cat forces, other than your own, in this system. You have no way of calling a Trial of Possession, Quineg?” He asked confused and angry by her simple answers which answered nothing.
“Neg, we do not, Clan Nova Cat will not be the entity declaring this, Trial. You will.”
“Me?” He asked shocked looking at her the Nova Cat woman laughed at his surprise curling up on the sofa opposite him, in a different circumstance he could see himself attempting to impress her enough to join him in bed, today however her beauty and words were winding her up. “How my Terrors were destroyed by your forces in a Trial of Possession? I have a lance left and they are stuck in a DropShip at the Spaceport.”
“The people will be your force Earl Jonas Tyler; you will rouse them to make a peaceful decision about their future with your actions.” Libby said uncurling her legs on the sofa she swung them out onto the floor standing up she stretched her muscles with the grace of a cat before reaching out with her hand. “And I will provide you with your sword.” She said taking his hand leading him through the complex. The former owner of this house had provided it with a massive garage space which took up a fair amount of the rear of the property, the Nova Cats had gutted it and replaced it with their own space enough space for a single BattleMech cradle which they had filled with a single BattleMech, the executive of the Sherwood BattleMech Factory had made big news when she’d purchased a brand-new Shadow Hawk SHD-2Hb model for her own personal use.
“What is this?” Jonas was a Shadow Hawk pilot, looking at the Mech he could see the Nova Cats had done further work to the design, but the fact they had a Shadow Hawk indicated there had been a significant amount of planning done behind his back.
“You need a sword Jonas Tyler, this BattleMech will be that sword, how you use it will entirely be up to you. This sword will give you the stage to make a statement after which Sherwood will make its choice.” Libby said looking from Jonas to the Mech and back again “we hoped you would agree to work with us, but we have a contingency should you refuse.”
“And should you need the contingency, what happens to me?”
“The same thing that happened to the person who used to own this house, and the person who bought that BattleMech.” Libby said in a matter-of-fact fashion informing him that he would not make it out of here alive. “Jonas, you do not have to work with us, you can take that BattleMech to the AFFS garrison and turn us in become a hero of the Federated Suns because of it. But I guarantee you that your people will suffer from that choice, not from Clan Nova Cat but from their own distrust of each other and of the changes that will come to Sherwood.” She explained “give the people their voice back, show them their Earl is willing to stand up to the powerful and fight for the people, even if it is only with words.”
“You think that will make any sort of difference?” Jonas asked looking up at the Shadow Hawk, it was tempting to do as she said. Not help the Nova Cats but turn them in, perhaps regain his Earlship of Sherwood and resist the Federated Suns policy of moving the factory away from the Nova Cat border and instead fortifying the system from attack.
“That is up to you and the people Jonas. I think a homegrown hero could help the people along.” She suggested turning and leaving him alone to stare at the BattleMech, it was painted in a forest camouflage with no insignia on it, anyone could own that Mech, he could own it. It was a simple choice he leaned on a tool rack and looked up at the BattleMech trying to clear his head.
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Several hours later Earl Jonas Tyler was walking the Shadow Hawk BattleMech towards the centre of Marion, the planetary capital, Jonas had been taught by his father the legends of Sherwood and where Sherwood and the places on the world had gained its name. He had never seen himself in any of the roles from the legend but today he could almost fit the role of Robin Hood. He was illegally piloting a BattleMech through the roadways and forests of Sherwood, he had no authority other than the moral obligation he felt for the people of Sherwood just like the legendary character. Unlike the story he wouldn’t be fighting the Federated Suns authority, he had made that clear to Libby before leaving in the BattleMech instead he planned on speaking to the people and seeing where it went from there.
Moving through the streets of Marion he saw the streets were quiet it was early afternoon, normally the streets would still be busy but today things were quiet people staying home after the riots. He hoped this little stunt would have enough of an impact making his way to the middle of the city his BattleMech stood there and he flicked the external speakers to active. “People of Marion, I am Jonas Tyler the Earl of Sherwood, I have been missing from this world for several years. I did not experience what Sherwood was like during the occupation of this world instead I fought against Clan Nova Cat with my unit the Terribles.” He said making sure everyone around the BattleMech knew who was talking to them, he saw out of several corners of the central square there were several people looking at the BattleMech.
“You suffered during that time I am sure of that but Sherwood has risen from the occupation stronger than ever. We have industries and jobs on Sherwood now that were not here before, there are recharge stations at the jump points, Sherwood stands at the precipice of being a centre for trade within this region, do not allow your fears to bring trouble and death to our streets. Whatever happens to our system is in our hands.” He said pausing as he saw a Davion militia Cuirass moving to the edge of the square the forty-ton BattleMech carried a nasty rotary autocannon, laser and Mech sized-sword but his Mech outweighed it by fifteen tons.
“I didn’t come here to fight” he saw watching the Cuirass, dozens of members of the public had flocked closer to his Mech to listen to his speech “I am here to encourage the people of Sherwood to take charge of their destiny peacefully and support a better future for Sherwood.” He said his words as much for the other MechWarrior as anything else but his words caused the crowd to cheer. “Make your choice, but respect your neighbours, keep the peace and make Sherwood better because of it.” His words caused more cheering which brought out other people. Jonas was doing his best to remain apolitical and keep a jovial atmosphere trying to turn their minds away from the riots which had proceeded such gatherings. For nearly three hours Jonas’s speech led to others a word of the gathering passed but unlike previous gatherings at this one there was no animosity between the groups instead there was a friendly atmosphere.
Following the gathering Jonas was escorted by the guarding Cuirass to a nearby militia base there he was debriefed by AFFS commanders he chose to stick to the story which he had agreed with Libby. Their story was a simple one Executive Amanda Brownhill of the Sherwood BattleMech Factory had seen Jonas and knew of him as a “war-hero” they had spoken briefly which had led to drinks at her property and personal relations had followed. When he had seen the riots, she had loaned him the BattleMech to try and bring back a sense of peace to the world. The AFFS authorities had believed the story and he had been released to return to his DropShip where the rest of his lance mates had remained during his excursion.
Lower Atmosphere, ODS Hampus Lindholm, Selecus Infantry Transport-class DropShip
Calloway IV, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
17th December 3118
It was continuing to be troubled times for the Free Worlds League’s District of Oriente while Federally controlled troops and WarShips were moving into the region to support Oriente’s defence the Capellan Confederation’s successful invasion of Jasmine and Shuen Wan had seen the destruction of two regiments of Oriente troops and the loss of two WarShips. On Jasmine there was a suggestion that the Eighth Fusiliers of Oriente had divided their forces based on their loyalty to the two brothers which led the nation leading to the destruction of the unit.
Instead of allowing things to continue Duke Ralph Halas had called for a meeting with his brother Javier meeting in the Calloway system onboard a Selecus-class DropShip which was delivering additional battle armour suits to the planet.
“Why are we meeting here Ralph? We could have just spoken on Oriente, and remained in command of our forces.” Javier asked complaining to his brother as they entered the infantry bay which had been cleared of troops.
“Symbolism” Ralph answered leading his brother past the silent battle armoured suits towards one of the deployment hatches. He saw his bother eyeing the suits, no doubt wondering if Ralph had an assassin waiting inside one of them ready to ensure his leadership of the district. Instead, Ralph headed over to the hatch standing to the left of the hatch he toggled the controls to observation mode. The pressure doors which were large enough for an entire squad of Battle Armoured troopers to deploy at once opened fully before a third door segment rose from the floor to nearly waist height. Ralph stood in the doorway looking out as Javier stepped up beside him the DropShip was cruising over the plains of Calloway banking gently in a slow orbit below there was a herd of nearly three thousand Calloway Wildebeests. “Almost fifty years ago scientists used the Helm Memory Core to reverse engineer and clone DNA preserved of an extinct species bringing it back.” He said looking down at the herd of brown haired four hooved, multi-horned beasts below early colonists on the planet had hunted them into extinction. “Short-sightedness had resulted in excessive hunting of those animals and like so many species on old Terra man thought it knew better and man killed an entire species.”
“And then man’s ingenuity brought it back” Javier pointed out a lesson in how man mis stepped was not what he needed.
“What is your point? We didn’t hunt those beasts into extinction, the people of Calloway farm them now sustainably and they are one of this system’s greatest exports. Calloway is a basket world of our district because of how we have protected it.” Javier hated being preached at, their elder sister had done it often, especially about something that he had nothing to do with.
“Yes, but our continued opposition threatens it just as it did the security of Jasmine and Shuen Wan” Ralph snapped back “we need to present a united front even if we don’t agree. Or our nation will go the same way as those original Wildebeests” he warned as the DropShip completed its second orbit of the herd the ship bobbled slightly as it hit a little turbulence as Ralph moved to close the hatch once more and Javier took his moment.
“I’m sorry this is for our people” he said lunging forwards he grabbed his brother’s stumbling form and shoved him over the low guard. Ralph Halas screamed in surprise but he had no chance to stop his motion with his knees slamming into the metalwork there was a large snapping noise as one of them broke instantly. Ralph screamed as his body tumbled over the gap, there was no hope of him holding on, Javier stood and watched as his own twin brother disappeared out of the gap and out onto the short wings of the DropShip. Ralph tumbled across the wing before rapidly moving backwards across the craft's hull as the engines drew him across the hull of the ship and straight through the air intake, there was little chance of survival from the fall but the DropShip’s movement and the damage done by the engine was enough to end Ralph’s life. “MAN OVERBOARD! MAN OVERBOARD!” Javier screamed breaking down in tears as crewmen rushed into the DropShip bay.
Within hours of the “accident” Duke Javier Halas stood in front of a tri-vid camera on the surface of Calloway IV. He wore the full uniform of an officer of the Free Worlds League military. “Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my sad duty to announce that my brother Ralph Halas today committed suicide onboard a DropShip heading to Calloway IV. I cannot tell you the reason behind his motives only the that he was dealing with grief from the hurt and pain our nation is feeling due to the damage caused by the Capellan Confederation. I will put everything I have to heal the pain of that grief our nation is feeling.”
Trial of Possession, Clan Wolf Incursion
Augustine, New Canton EDZ
Star League Protectorate
19th December 3118
Border skirmishes between Clan Wolf and the Star League Protectorate were a common and bloody occurrence. This was the first one on Augustine in several months and the first that Kay’s Jokers had joined the SLDF in the defence of the world. Prowling her Ryoken II along the battleline Tassa Kay, the commander of Kay’s Jokers, was looking for a specific Clan Wolf BattleMech as their incursion was repulsed by the SLDF and mercenary forces. The Wolves were going to leave Augustine in defeat but she wanted to make it extra special for the Wolves.
“There you are” she said smiling savagely looking at the gold, black and red painted Linebacker near the rear of the formation “you always did like commanding from the middle.” She said adjusting the straps of her command couch inside the Mech she wore a green tank top and shorts under her coolant vest, she had never been a fan of the full coolant suits favoured by some warriors instead preferring to feel some of the heat her Mech was producing. She reached to the right of the cockpit flicking a switch “Jokers target identified, I want a wedge of targets attacked between line four of their line and line…” she paused looking at the enemy line, her Jokers were not a massively powerful unit “line 7 hit them all except the Linebacker, he’s mine.”
Moments later almost as one the Kay’s Jokers burst into action firing on the Wolf lines. Tassa remained behind the other Jokers for several moments allowing them to engage the Wolves first before turning her Ryoken II and charging it straight at the enemy Linebacker. As a Wolf Timber Wolf attempted to move to engage with her, she triggered the BattleMech’s jump jets launching the blue, green and grey painted Ryoken II into the air avoiding its charge flying clearly over the Wolf front-line and into the middle of their formation “Star Colonel Quinton Sender, I Challenge you to a Circle of Equals, you against me.” She said on an open frequency, other challenges had been made during the battle which had been honoured and throwing his name into the mix should get his attention. Before the battle Star League Intelligence had provided the unit with the breakdown of the Wolf Cluster, the First Wolf Guards an elite formation, a formation that used to be part of Clan Mountain Wolf before it “returned to Clan Wolf” among its roster Tassa had seen a name which she knew, her target.
“You know my name?”
“I know you” Tassa said as the battle raged all around everyone ignored the two warriors as a challenge had been made. “Do you accept this challenge?”
“What is your ransom?” He asked wondering what she wanted from the trial, during these sorts of trials the Wolves often agreed to honour reasonable ransoms from enemy warriors. Of course, more often than not the challenging warrior either lost their life, or lost their position becoming a bondsman of the Wolves.
“I will tell you, or whomever remains in command, what I want after this battle is done.”
“Your overconfidence will be your undoing.”
“That’s been said, but not today shorty” she snorted knowing that neither the Mech or its pilot were up to her.
“When you are defeated, you will be taken as a bondsman of Clan Wolf and those contractions will be beat out of you.” He warned she saw a twitch in the arms seeing the particle cannons mounted there moving.
“Well bargained and done” she said triggering both of her Ryoken II’s torso mounted particle cannons one struck the hunched over enemy OmniMech while the other hit the upper right arm of the enemy Mech. Her attacks knocked off the shot of one of the Linebacker’s own particle cannons sending the shot wide while the other shot flew into Tassa’s Ryoken II’s humanoid chassis.
Cutting to the right Tassa twisted the Mech’s torso tracking the Linebacker both torso mounted missile racks locked on target and she pulled the trigger sending twelve streak short range missiles straight at the enemy Mech the Linebacker was beginning to move just as the missiles exploded all over the enemy Mech. Tassa added in both of the medium lasers but both went wide missing their target completely.
Missiles from the Linebacker flew in five long range missiles arced high above but missed the Ryoken completely, four short range missiles of the same streak type flew in low from the Linebacker hitting the Ryoken in the stomach area. Tassa ignored the damage and continued to run her Ryoken in a circle before planting the feet bringing the Mech to a sudden stop, Sender continued to try and track the enemy Mech which was no longer running there. “You old fool!” Tassa shouted triumphantly firing both particle cannons into the right arm of the Linebacker, the double impact of the two man-made lightning bolts severed the arm just above the elbow parts of the arm flew everywhere and the particle cannon carried by it fell uselessly to the ground. “You’re going to die Sender! I’m coming for you!” She screamed launching the Ryoken II into the air high above the Linebacker the Ryoken II flew as the Mech rose, she triggered both medium lasers but they went hight above the enemy BattleMech.
Tassa twisted the Ryoken in mid-air but was unable to complete an entire turn coming into a landing. The Ryoken stumbled a little as she fought the momentum, the damage display showed the jump had cost her a damaged ankle actuator. Even as she checked the damage missiles and a particle cannon shot from the Linebacker slammed into the Ryoken II causing it to stumble further. “Stavag! I will not lose to you Sender!” She snapped angrily turning the Mech quickly she briefly exposed the back of the Ryoken II to her enemy but that enemy had just used his weapons against her and would have to wait for another shot. Continuing her turn she brought the two particle cannons in line and took a snap shot but both bolts missed their target she began to run again in a circle opposite the Linebacker trying to keep her opponent off pace, with the damaged ankle the Ryoken II was moving less fluidly this time. One of the two Streak racks obtained a lock and six missiles shot out at the enemy Mech as four missiles from the Linebacker flew in the opposite direction again aimed at the gut of the Ryoken II. This time immediately followed were five closely bunched long range missiles which arced upwards and then came back down on top of the seventy-five-ton BattleMech.
The Linebacker started tightening the circle between them “Yes, Sender com’on put up a fight” she taunted him Tassa smiled squaring the shoulders of the Ryoken facing the Wolf BattleMech “Com’on!” She shouted again triggering one particle cannon and medium laser which smashed into the Linebacker’s hunched over torso heat rose quickly in the cockpit of the Ryoken II as she stepped forwards. With her next step she triggered the other particle cannon and other laser it was like a boxer’s one-two punch against the Linebacker forcing it backwards. As she closed the Linebacker struck out with its remaining particle cannon and the long-range missiles. With neither Mech moving quickly the particle cannon couldn’t miss nor could the five missiles causing armour damage on the torso. As the Linebacker closed on the Ryoken II Tassa’s streak missiles activated gaining a lock against their target and essentially throwing a third punch to the combo she had delivered against the Linebacker. Explosions from the short-range missiles covered the Linebacker even as the Wolf pilot attempted to return fire but the man-made lightning bolt flew high into the air missing wildly. More long-range missiles were fired but they harmlessly flew past the sidestepping Ryoken II.
Another “one-two” particle cannon and laser combination followed from the Ryoken II and this was enough for the Linebacker, the OmniMech stumbled and then fell on its face. Tassa Kay stood over the fallen Linebacker “Star Colonel Sender, you are defeated, surrender” she said.
“Neg, freebirth” he responded his prone Linebacker was attempting to get back up but Tassa delivered a physical punch to the back of the sixty-five-ton OmniMech knocking it back down onto the ground. “Stavag!”
Inside her Ryoken II’s cockpit she toggled the comm. frequency to one used only by Clan Wolf command staff “I’m not a freebirth you old fool, surrender before you die.”
“I’d rather die in my cockpit, if you are not a freebirth then I die with honour, finish…” he began to say before Tassa Kay delivered a particle cannon blast directly into the cockpit of the Linebacker incinerating the Wolf warrior where he sat, she knew where he was coming from, it was a great fear of all Clan warriors to become a solahma and be relegated from the front lines.
Changing frequencies back over again she sat in the middle of the Wolf formation as warriors died all around them. She looked at the Jokers IFF codes and saw that many of them had paid the price for her little excursion, she smiled, they had played their part. Swapping back to a general frequency she challenged the Wolves “Clan Wolf warriors of the First Wolf Guards I have defeated your commander in a Circle of Warriors, it was a duel of warriors to which honour was served and blood was spilled. I demand safcon to your DropShip to collect my ransom.”
“This is Star Captain Finola Shaw, I accept your demand of safcon. We are falling back you may join us at our DropShip and recover your ransom, Quiaff?”
“Aff” Tassa answered smiling she then about turned the Mech and began walking it towards the Wolf landing zone. She saw communications from the surviving jokers but she ignored them instead continuing to march along with the Wolves. On reaching the Wolf DropShips she marched the BattleMech inside and entered the Mechbay, there was a combined panic from the technicians below as they expected her to attack them, the BattleMech was an enemy combatant, several infantry troopers raised weapons towards the BattleMech but did not fire.
Inside the cockpit of the Ryoken II she played with the idea of raising her weapons but the Wolves had given her safcon and she would honour that, she would trust their honour. She manoeuvred the BattleMech into one of the Mech maintenance gantries shutting everything down and putting the BattleMech into safe mode. She removed the neurohelmet placing it on its storage shelf before unhooking her coolant vest and squeezing out of command couch, she reached the rear hatch and keyed the lock, the hatch opened and the cold air rushed in. Tassa loved the feeling of the cold air following BattleMech operations the cold air on her bare skin was as refreshing as any shower. She clambered out of the seventy-five-ton BattleMech’s cockpit and onto the metal gantry that ran around the back of the Mechbay. Climbing up onto the gantry were two security officers with basic armour and hand weapons, she assumed they were lower castemen left to defend the DropShip as a last resort glancing downwards, she saw her weapon belt just inside the Ryoken II and was tempted to reach for it but decided she could intimidate them just fine on her own instead she pulled a red hair bobble from a hook just inside the door and then toggled the lock controls. The hatch slid slowly shut just as the guards reached her. She looked them up and down their weapons not drawn, “sloppy, just as well I am not an intruder” she silently thought.
“I have been granted safcon to this DropShip and a ransom by your commander” she announced stepping forwards both men flinched at her movement which made Tassa Kay smile broadly “take me to your leader, or should I take you?” she joked with them both men continued to look nervous but allowed her to pass. She made her way confidently along the gantry as more Mechs were staggering into the Mechbay of the Union C-class DropShip. The DropShip could hold fifteen Mechs but she would be shocked if that many returned to the bay after the fight the Star League and Jokers had given them. She climbed down the steps and stood in the bay waiting for whoever decided to take charge of the situation. She saw warriors and techs assembling and the admiring eyes from many of the warriors Tassa was beautiful, her skin was perfect, she was well built with an athletic frame, her green tank top did nothing to hide the womanly curves she had, if anything it drew attention to them as did not wear a bra while in the cockpit and she was soaked in sweat. Her exposed belly was trimmed and muscled, and the shorts did their own job attracting attention to her perfectly formed legs. Topping this off was her long bright red hair which she had tied back in a ponytail behind her head. She could be the poster girl for any recruitment poster and would turn heads in any bar in the Inner Sphere and she knew it, she had used these charms more than once she knew what they did to both men and women and her body was a weapon in every sense of the word. She almost felt sorry for the Wolf who would try to contain her.
Finally, an Elemental warrior still fully suited up marched up to her. The suit had been in the thick of the fighting, its missile launcher was gone, the armour pitted and burned over more than seventy percent of its frame, the V-shaped visor at the front slid open revealing a sweat covered dark skinned elemental warrior inside. “I am Finola Shaw, you fought well warrior, what is your ransom? I will honour your victory and give you what you want from this DropShip, including repairs to that fine BattleMech.” She announced
“You cannot give me anything” Tassa Kay said “instead I challenge you Star Captain Finola Shaw” she said reaching into her tank top and pulling out a small cannister which was attached to a think chain around her neck. “I challenge you to read this codex.”
“You’re Clan” Shaw said after moments shock her voice slipping in surprise.
“Aff” she confirmed off to the side a pale looking male technician rushed in with a portable reader and carefully took the codex from Tassa Kay’s out stretched hand. In front of everyone the tech read the codex and his mouth visibly dropped even further open than the Star Captain’s had a moment before. He turned the display towards Shaw “its authentic” she confirmed “I am a Wolf!” She said loud enough for them all to hear “as much a Wolf as any of you. I am Anastasia Kerensky, a Kerensky born on Arc Royal to the same Clan that many of you were once tied to, I was born from the same blood as Natasha Kerensky, the Black Widow herself and I will have my place in my Clan.”
“You will be its bondswoman” Shaw said after giving her a moment to showboat. “I will afford you the respect you are due as one of the Bloodnamed but until we return to Wolf territory, you will be confined to quarters.”
“Don’t forget about me!” She said cheekily as she was led off by the security staff.
“I do not think that would be possible.” Shaw said more to herself than anything “the show is over people, at least for now, prep this ship for immediate lift off. We are going home.” She announced to the rest of the assembled warriors and techs, taking a final look at Tassa… no, Anastasia Kerensky’s Ryoken II before heading off to get her Elemental suit removed.
Back on Augustine with their commander gone and more than half of their BattleMechs damaged beyond the capability to repair the Kay’s Jokers cease to be with the personnel offered positions in other commands or packing their bags and heading towards a mercenary hiring hall looking for new work.
Diamond Crash Bar, Oldtown Square
Hon Hu, Matsuida Prefecture
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
24th December 3118
There were many in the Inner Sphere that said that Christmas was not celebrated in the Draconis Combine, that was a myth it was just different. There were many who also said that the Combine did not have much to celebrate with their borders besieged on almost every front by one aggressor or another, while accurate many of the worlds were dozens of light years from any battle front. Even an intelligence release which glorified the DCMS’ success in the periphery against Clan Lynx with six systems liberated by the brave sons and daughters of the Dragon had been overshadowed when a release of information, which was being blamed on Azami Separatists revealed that the Lynx had almost completely abandoned all six systems with no ground forces and token aerospace defences in each. If anything, the Dragon had added more territory to defend while the Lynx had moved troops possibly into striking range of other worlds.
Making his way through the group a single bar customer moved passed one of the Diamond Crash Bar’s stalls and slumped onto the seat his pint glass landing thankfully upright on the table “do you mind if I take this chair young lady?” He asked her his voice was slurred his brown hair looked greasy, a full beard over grown and dark shades hiding eyes which probably showed not enough sleep. He wore a checked blue, brown and yellow shirt, and a pair of denim jeans, he didn’t stand out at all in the room which was full of men wearing the same enjoying the last day before Xmas.
“Sure, I’m just waiting for friends” she replied she was his opposite she looked tidy her blonde/brown hair cut short she wore a white shirt and, hidden by the table, plain blue velvet bottoms.
“Of course, you are!” He said loudly “quite right too, enjoying Christmas Eve because we can and the Coordinator cannot stop us having a bit of fun!”
“No, he can’t you have a good night though” she said sounding more nervous, talk against the Coordinator even in jest could be dangerous.
“So, you can go drink a water slowly alone elsewhere” the man asked sounding far more sober for a moment before returning to his drunken state speaking quickly. “You’re never going to believe this!” He said giggling away “today the government attempted to release some good news!” He said “they’ve got a brand-new Land Air Mech plant right here on Hun Ho!” He said excitedly “LexaTech is expanding its production base and its products a brand-new LAM design too.”
“I don’t really follow the military news, it’s a long way away from here in the core” she said sounding nervous Hun Ho was a warm jungle world far from any threats and hosted little in the way of industry to make it a target.
“Of course, you don’t lass, quite right too! And tonight, is about celebration!” He said standing up and singing away to a tune, the young woman began to move again “but hang on, I didn’t finish my story.” He said she reluctantly stopped moving “so the government was trying to give us some good news a new factory, new jobs for the folk here and a new LAM design the Needletail, they are calling it a wee nipper of a thing.” He said “but here’s the kicker two nights ago one of the leading development pilots stole one of the prototypes!”
“Oh my, that’s shocking” the young woman said “you have a good night old fella” she said half joking beginning to slide off the booth.
“The pilot of that Needletail will never get out of this system to sell that craft.” The man said “especially if she spends all night sipping a drink of water and then slips out of a booth when someone is trying to speak to her.” He said stopping her movement completely
“You’re my contact!” She said her eyes open in surprise looking at him. She had stolen the LAM after having contact with someone outside the factory who said they’d pay good money for the design.
“Keep your voice down little lady, now listen you can’t stay here with a drunk like me and have water, so go get yourself a double at the bar and a drink to take and if you still want to talk come back here.” He said having a large sip from his glass.
She returned several minutes later with a drink for herself and a drink for him which was well timed as he had just finished his drink, it was like his previous drink so most likely a lager. “So still interested then?”
“That was a test” she said realizing he had let her go for a reason. To see if she would return “what can you offer me?” She asked drinking some of her drink which was not quite a pint but looked like a similar lager to what she was drinking.
“Initially transport out of this system and out of the Combine” he said “in exchange I’ll take the LAM as payment, you’ll get enough to start over elsewhere.” He said seeing her resistance as he continued to drink “if you want to keep the LAM then we need you to work off the debt for transporting it and you. I have a small unit; we could use the unique scouting and strike capabilities a LAM would bring.” He explained, she had thought her contact had wanted the LAM to sell it, a brand new design would make a massive profit.
“Will I get paid anything over and above the debts?” She asked drinking more of the drink. She should be afraid that all would happen is she would be murdered and her LAM taken but she was not, if she remained in the Hon Hu system she would be discovered and the same fate would follow.
“You’ll be well taken care of as long as you’re with us you’ll be part of the team. There is a non-disclosure agreement you’ll need to agree to but I’m sure once you are onboard, you’ll agree.” He explained, the fact that he was explaining this suggested that he ran some sort of black ops unit, but then only someone who was operating under the radar could offer what he had offered.
“If you get me off this world, I’ll sign whatever you want.” She admitted downing the drink “another?” She asked she had loosened up a bit and was relaxing now her contact was real and she had a chance of getting off the world alive.
“I don’t think we need one, not here anyway” he said the effects of the alcohol all but gone from his voice. “Where’s your Mech?” He asked all business.
“In the jungle” she said, that was not much of an answer as the most of the world was covered by jungle foliage.
“Space capable?” He asked she nodded it was a LAM it should be space capable but he wanted to be sure. “Good, lay low tonight and during the day tomorrow if you can. I have a supply shuttle you can shadow until you reach orbit, there I’ll have a Mule-class DropShip, if you can rendezvous with us then we can disappear before the militia finds us.” He explained “from there we can figure out what you want.”
“How will a Mule-class vessel avoid detection and hide my fighter?” She asked a Mule was a transport class of vessel many were used by the military but they were built to a civilian spec. While Hon Hu did not have extensive sensor networks and naval defences they would still have enough to penetrate a Mule’s hull.
“We won’t avoid detection, but if they have anything capable of penetrating our screens then they deserve to detect you.” He said confidently the glint in his eyes showing that the drunken state that he previous showed was gone.
“I’ll get you off this rock.”
---
The next night a Sopworth Supply Craft flew low over the jungle and the single forty ton red and black painted Needletail LAM joined it in the lower atmosphere. The pilot showing an impressive skillset to remain just in the one-hundred-and-ten-ton Small Craft’s sensor shadow. If one looked close enough you could see where the arms of the BattleMech had folded forwards to create the nose of the craft and the engines on the rear of the torso and legs were now creating the thrust that propelled the aircraft. The two arm mounted extended range lasers mounted on the arms were now nose mounted weapons while the torso mounted multi-missile launcher gave the Mech a long range and short range punch in the aircraft mode the launcher was near the rear of the craft giving it its name. The problem, like with all LAMs, was the design could not heavy damage with only seven tons of amour and a composite structure making nearly any it did take a lethal one. The advantage that the Needletail had over other LAM designs was the modular weapons bay in the left torso while not a true OmniMech the weapon system could be replaced far faster than a regular refit.
As the Sopworth and Needletail approached the waiting Mule just outside standard orbit the small craft rotated allowing the Needletail to approach the first small craft bay undetected it slipped into the bay and the doors rapidly closed behind it. Once the small craft had also docked the Mule boosted away from the planet to an awaiting a JumpShip.
I posted the Needletail previously on the forum but it's gone through a change or two since that posting so I'll post it again soon
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OBT is back, I did not realise so here we go time for more Alternate Timeline with Thanks (FULL version), I'll try and update the short one too it just takes time to pick it all out of the pile.
3119
Border skirmish
Warren, Warren PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
3rd January 3119
On a world like Warren border skirmishes were almost a way of life with multiple raids against the world most months from either the Capellan Confederation, Taurian Concordat or independent pirate forces. This meant that joining the AFFS and importantly the local militia was a call many of the locals answered Private Jonas Lobotka was one such recruit.
Jonas did not have the academy training or the family money to be a MechWarrior instead he had joined as a member of the militia’s infantry corps. He had immediately been assigned to the artillery section of the Warren Capellan March Militia joining a crew of a towed Long Tom Artillery piece, the nineteen-year-old had barely been with the command when the Silent Reapers Mercenaries had raided the planet.
The rain beat down on the artillery crew as they bombarded a target far out of visual range. “SPEAR! SPEAR! SPEAR!” their radios collective shouted all at once the crew all shared a look and then began to pull on their chemical protection masks from their gear. Jonas did the same but he stopped for a moment looking up into the sky watching as three long range missiles arced over their position heading towards Warren’s capital city of Aagtekerke.
“What are you doing? Get your gear on now!” His Sergeant screamed at him snapping him out of his momentary trance Jonas pulled on his face mask and then his protective gloves. “Everyone get down now! Turn away from the b…” he screamed at them as the three missiles hit the city a few kilometres beyond their position blast waves tore across the city but it was not the blasts that worried people. A SPEAR call was a chemical warhead attack, they all drilled for it but this was the real thing none of them knew what was going to happen next. Across the city a blue haze spread out from the missile strikes coating the city and its inhabitants.
With the defenders turning to help Aagtekerke recover from the Silent Reapers chemical attack the mercenary force was able to disengage and escape retreating to their two DropShips and then onto the JumpShip. The Silent Reapers had been under contract with the Taurian Concordat and as word of the attack on Warren spread Kathil raised an official complaint against the attack which the Taurians denied all knowledge of and stated that the Silent Reapers were out of contract with the Taurian people. On Warren thousands were sick and the death toll was beginning to rise as Federated Suns medical teams attempted to help the capital’s population.
Public Announcement
Halas Royal Household, Oriente
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
11th January 3119
Stepping out from the right-hand side of the stage Duke Javier Halas stepped in front of the assembled press dressed in a bright red version of a Free Worlds League Marshal’s uniform. His beard was gone but he had kept a full mustache while his brown hair which had been growing during their month of mourning had been cut shorter.
“Gentlemen and Ladies” he said speaking to the reporters with an emphasis on the ‘Ladies’ part “today I am announcing the ending of our month of mourning since my brother’s suicide on Calloway IV.” He said glancing down for a moment of reflection and then he looked up “I am not over my brother’s death… in the end he could not deal with where he had led our nation and the constant pressure, we were under from our neighbours. Today we together as a nation are going to reverse these fortunes, I am declaring War on behalf of the Free Worlds League against the Capellan Confederation. As I make this declaration units of the District of Oriente are making strikes against worlds of the Capellan Confederation, I call on the Free Worlds League to support us in our second round of assaults. I will avenge my brother’s death and I will make the Capellan Confederation burn for what they drove him to.”
Within hours of his announcement on Oriente six regiments of the District of Oriente landed on the systems of Varna, Hassad and Fujidera with the Oriente flagship Santorini supporting the invasion of Hassad. The Santorini’s presence was to counter the presence of one of the Capellan Confederation’s Tikonov-class Carriers, the Qingdao. While the fighters from the two WarShips cancelled each other out two additional Oriente WarShips jumped in and engaged the Qingdao directly. The Tikonov-class Carrier was not designed to engage WarShips directly instead it was intended on deploying aerospace fighters and protecting itself from aerospace fighters. Against an Eagle-class Frigate and a Monolisk-class Destroyer the eight hundred-and-sixty thousand ton had no chance against two dedicated WarShips even with several escorting DropShips and it was torn to pieces. Soon after the destruction of the carrier the aerospace fighters were forced to surrender or be left abandoned in space, likewise when the Oriente troops reached Hassad the CCSS Qiandaohu, a Britannic-class Heavy Freighter, was boarded and the crew forced to surrender. The ship was escorted to Oriente where Javier Halas christened the vessel after his brother Jonas Halas.
On the ground the District of Oriente troops outclass the troops of the Capellan Confederation with naval firepower supporting the ground troops providing Orbital Fire-support when the ground forces needed it to shatter four separate commands bringing all three worlds into the District of Oriente. The Dragonkind a mercenary BattleMech company were also destroyed along with the Capellan unit that they were attached to.
Border Raids
Southwest Covenant
16th January 3119
After a series of raid by companies of Spartan BattleMechs the Cirincus Federation invades the worlds of Zorn’s Keep and Poulsbo. The Spartan raids had caused heavy damage to infastructure and militia forces on both worlds crippling their ability to respond to the occupation raid which followed. During the invasion of Poulsbo, the mercenary company Antian Lanciarii are wiped out to the man as the Cirincus Federation occupiers take no prisoners. In the coming days the Southwest Covenant government officials are banished from the systems and sent to JumpShips which would take them away from the two systems and into the periphery where they would live their lives as members of the Cirincus Federation’s slave caste in mines. This marks just the start of the Cirincus Federation’s rule as more and more people are shipped off the worlds along with resources and industry.
Wedding Ceremony
McCoy Estate, Whittington
Periphery
25th January 3119
While the Cirincus Federation were in the process of showing some of the horrors of the periphery on Whittington a ceremony as old as humanity was taking place showing that beauty still existed. On a beautiful Whittington day at the estate of House McCoy sixteen BattleMechs stood in two lines of eight flanking a seated area. The Mechs that had arms had at least one arm extended into the air, while those that did not have arms had poles attached to their body’s, from the Mechs hung a white awning which let the sunlight through but protected the patrons from being blinded by the low yellow sun.
Under the awning were rows of white seats which were filled by members of McCoy’s Malcontents, their support crews, families, and members of the local community. All the chairs were facing a heavily flowered area closest to the McCoy house while in the middle Schuyler McCoy stood waiting. From the far end of Amanda Cavalcanti entered the awning area she was dressed in a beautiful bright red dress. He had known that is what she had planned to wear and he had asked her why red and not the traditional white? Ever the practical woman Amanda had explained that for three reasons firstly in the periphery keeping white clean and looking perfect was near impossible, secondly, she was not a virgin and she had killed many warriors in combat and three her hair was bright red and it would not look good with a white dress!
They had laughed together about it and he had agreed with her choice, but seeing her in it now made the choice complete and perfect, his bride soon to be his wife, she looked stunning. Without any family to walk her down the aisle she began walking down by herself but then Chief Tech Matthew Yingling dressed in a suit which resembled one of his boilersuits stood up and took her by the arm walking her the remainder of the way. Schuyler McCoy did not have a best man so he stood waiting her to join him in front of all the others, likewise they did not have a religious representative instead they both stood facing the crowd of nearly two hundred.
“You look amazing” he whispered to her drawing a smile her hair was tied back in a simple braid which went down her back but the red stood out for all to see. “Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for coming here today.” He said addressing the crowd “myself and Amanda did not meet through a conventional sense”
“You abducted me” she broke in, with perfect timing just as they had agreed, it brought a quiet laughter from the crowd.
“I recruited Amanda into our little community during one of our missions.”
“Also known by some as raids” Amanda added, not all of their ‘missions’ were of a legal nature and she’d been one of those trying to stop the Malcontents.
“Thank you, dear” he said glancing over “after joining us Amanda won a place within this unit and from there it was only a matter of time before she won also won my heart.” He explained looking at her as there was a collected ‘awww’ from the crowd, we have been through quite a bit since she joined us, we’ve had some adventures, made some friends and some enemies along the way and we have lost some friends.” He said bowing his head as did most of the people gathered Malcontents had died bringing goods to Whittington to improve all their lives and they had died defending the world as well. “But through it all we’ve had each other and I want that for the rest of my life.”
“I did not come to you in the traditional way” she said
“I swept you off your feet…” he interrupted
“Well you took off my BattleMech’s legs” she said countering him recounting how they met when Schuyler had use his Archer’s BattleMech sized axe to smash her BattleMech’s legs, again their back and forth brought the crowd into their story even if they were not there “but I sensed from my first meeting with you that there was something honourable and that you had a deeper integrity. And then we came here, to our home, to these people” she said looking at the crowd “and I realized that the life I had before…”
“The one I kidnapped you from…”
“Was no life at all” she said even as the crowd laughed “you’ve given me a home and a life that I would not change it.” She finished “I want to stay with you for the rest of my life.” She said completing their vow.
“For the rest of our lives”
“I do” she said agreeing to their vow in front of all the witnesses they became Schuyler McCoy and Amanda Cavalcanti-McCoy.
Freedom Riot
Herndon, Clan Lynx Occupation Zone
28th January 3119
After months of behind the scenes work by Draconis Combine special forces personnel the people of Herndon riot against Clan Lynx demonstrating for their freedom. For three days to end the month the people of Herndon protested peacefully in the streets of every town and city on Herndon. Unlike on previous worlds where protests had occurred, like Turtle Bay during the initial Clan invasion almost seventy years before, the Clan military forces do not even make an appearance instead leaving every law enforcement issue up to the local police and paramilitary forces.
Unlike Clan Smoke Jaguar which had enforced law on Combine world using their military forces to enforce Clan law Clan Lynx takes a stepped back approach allowing the locals to be angry for a period of time. The Clan’s stepped back approach shows the population the Clan’s attitude towards its population which is far different from both Clan Smoke Jaguar and the Draconis Combine. Several hundred people are arrested during the course of the protests but all are processed under local laws instead of being charged with various other offences.
Still hidden from the Clan Lynx forces the Draconis Combine forces based on Herndon have too change tactics instead of relying on the people to do their dirty work they instead turn to sabotage. On the 30th January 3119 the DEST teams on Herndon bomb a power plant and a money exchange building killing nearly eight hundred people including a dozen of members of Clan Lynx. Within days of these actions Clan Lynx deploy two additional Elemental stars and two additional stars of conventional infantry along with infantry support vehicles which are sent to hunt down the DEST commandos regardless of cost. After the terrorist actions which cost hundreds of lives the people of Herndon do not stand in the Lynx way.
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Clan Sea Fox Trade Outpost
Coates Continent, Ito
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
2nd February 3119
In an organised move Clan Sea Fox claim the Coates Continent on the world of Ito in the heart of the Capellan Confederation as a trade world. Initially the Capellan Confederation refuses to trade the continent to Clan Sea Fox refusing any sort of fighting trial with the Sea Foxes. Instead, it took the Sea Fox ArcShip Red Tide journeying to Capellan Confederation capitol and negotiating directly with the leadership of the Capellan Confederation. Although they do not gain an audience with the Chancellor they speak with Dao-Shen Liao’s chief military advisor, and wife, Sang-jiang-jun Erin Liao.
During the negotiations the Sea Foxes agree to trade away to the Capellan Confederation an entire star of assault DropShips and the makings of an entire combined-arms regiment to allow the Sea Fox Clan to take possession of the entire southern Coates Continent. The Sea Foxes also secure the Capellan’s agreement to for the Capellans remove all civilians from the Coats Continent before the Foxes land on the ground. For eight weeks the Capellans forcefully relocate civilians from Coates there are several protests however the Eighth Capellan Defence Force are aggressive with the population and do not allow things to get out of hand. The Sea Foxes attempt to make things easier on the people that are relocated by deploying over one hundred temporary housing blocks, often used when creating Clan firebases, to give the people at least a roof over their heads. The Capellans organise these into small towns with everyone from Coates housed together but it does little to dispel the anger from the population.
With the equipment brought in from Clan Sea Fox they deploy the new DropShips with the Confederation’s best WarShips while the ground equipment is deployed to the best regiments in the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces the released equipment from other regiments is sent to Ito where a new Warrior House Mitsukurina owstoni named after the Goblin Shark which is native to Ito having been engineered from the Terran species introduced during the First Star League-era. The new Warrior Houses primary task during peace time will be to guard against any intrusions by Clan Sea Fox forces. The continent of Coates was an island which made up roughly two thirds of the southern hemisphere of Ito it was temperate in climate, with mostly flat farm landed and a massive mountain range making up the southern most part of the land.
Elsewhere in the Clipperton system the reborn Clan Smoke Jaguar, operating as part of the Free Worlds League’s military, claim a newly completed Aumaku-class Destroyer from Clan Sea Fox in a Trial of Possession adding it to the naval forces available to the District of Lesnovo. The trial is fought between two DropShips and their attending fighters on both sides.
Field Base Command, StarCorps Industries
Farrarrah, Annesland
Crofton, Crofton OZ, Nova Cat’s Den
10th February 3119
The Khan of Clan Nova Cat Canin Rosse continued to occupy the office formerly occupied by the CEO of StarCorps Industries on Crofton. The Nova Cats continued to fight trials with the Federated Suns targeting worlds near their expanded Crofton Occupation Zone recently adding Bulford, Kettering and Vincente to the Nova Cat’s claimed worlds on Kettering there was a Cicada factory which the Nova Cats were now evaluating for potential of deploying within their forces.
The most recent Trials of Possessions had drawn the ire of the Federated Suns however two days before at a pirate point the Federated Suns Battleship the FSS Black Prince, a Mercury-class Battleship, had jumped into the system. Immediately the vessel had requested Safcon and announced that the First Prince of the Federated Suns wished to speak with Khan Canin Rosse. The Nova Cats had five WarShips in the system including a Nightlord II-class Battleship but nothing that could match the size of the massive Federated Suns vessel. Not wanting to see five WarShips badly damaged or destroyed Khan Rosse had agreed to grant Safcon and allow the Federated Suns to land one DropShip at the Marcus Spaceport.
The Federated Suns had landed one of their premier aerodyne DropShips, a Conquistador combined arms carrier, and then a convoy had been escorted to the StarCorps facility’s gates. After being checked over the armoured limousine along with a squad of Infiltrator III Battle Armour suits had been allowed into the complex.
Now the First Prince of the Federated Suns walked into Khan Canin Rosse’s office wearing the uniform of a Federated Suns Field Marshal at fifty-five years old Canin Rosse could see that grey was peppering the First Prince’s hair and his hairline was slowly receding. He also noted the First Prince had put on some weight since they had last met a few years before and Khan Rosse wondered if that was why he had not taken his BattleMech to the Nova Cat base. Rising from his chair Khan Rosse wore a simple charcoal coloured combat jumpsuit, with ablative inserts, on his belt he had a vibro-dagger and a gauss pistol, he was dressed for any occasion. In the corner of the room sitting along with his hanging coolant suit and outside jacket there was a compact Gauss SMG, for decades the weapon had been standard issue to most MechWarriors who deployed out of their Mechs Rosse was proficient with the weapon but had not used it in anger for years. The Nova Cats controlled this system but there were still many who would be willing to take a shot at the Nova Cat Khan, and even though he was approaching his eighty-first birthday Canin Rosse was always ready to defend himself.
“Welcome to the Nova Cat’s Den, First Prince Davion.” He said looking to see how the First Prince would react.
“Thank you, Khan Rosse,” his visitor replied stopping short of Khan Rosse’s desk, the Khan noticed that the First Prince had a large heavy slug thrower pistol. “Thank you for granting me an audience. I will cut straight to the point, these raids against the Federated Suns must stop.”
“Neg” Rosse said simply looking at the younger man, from his facial expression it was clear Burton Davion was not used to someone defying him so bluntly.
“Khan Rosse, you must understand you are pushing the Federated Suns to the point of total was in retaliation in response to your actions. I came here in a Mercury-class Battleship, I have access to five more of that class of vessel along with dozens of support vessels, and six combat capable Regimental Combat Teams are within strike distance of your realm. I could bring great harm to your nation even without the support of the Star League Defence Force, which I would get.”
“An over-reaction, but your choice First Prince.” Khan Rosse said turning and stepping away from the First Prince looking out of the window over the base “the Trials of Possession my Clan have undertaken are part of an agreement I made with your father decades ago. They are a cornerstone of our culture and one I will not let go.” He said defiantly turning back towards the First Prince. “Given our agreement with your father my troops have done the absolute minimum damage to the worlds we have targeted, and we have sought to avoid civilian casualties with a near one hundred percent success rate.” He said every Trial of Possession was ordered to be fought outside civilian population centres with Nova Cat troops drawing Federated Suns defenders out and even engaging them on grounds that favoured the Federated Suns defenders instead of taking the fight into a civilian zone.
“And as for your willingness to run to the Star League for assistance I could easily do the same and turn to the Clan Council for assistance with your nation. The Ravens, Foxes and now the Ghost Bears all share borders with your realm First Prince. Do you want to see what the coordinated efforts of the Clans can do?” Rosse asked allowing some anger to enter his voice “ask the Draconis Combine or the Lyran Commonwealth.” While the Inner Sphere had closed on the Clans in terms of firepower and technological knowledge ton for ton Clan units still tended to be superior to their Inner Sphere equivalents with few exceptions. The Nova Cats would struggle to repel a Federated Suns invasion of the Nova Cat’s Den but he also knew that if the Federated Suns tried to invade his realm en masse they would pay the price fighting the Nova Cats and he could count on at least the Ravens for assistance.
“While I respect the agreements you made with my father, I cannot allow your constant violations of our territory.” He said turning away from the Khan briefly before turning back his arms resting on the holster of his pistol. “A Davion does not flagrantly break an agreement with a neighbour.” He said repeating a phrase his father liked as he eyed the Khan?” refusing to copy the Khan by raising his hands towards his own weapon. “I wish to modify our agreement” He asked switching pace and to diplomacy, he did not want a large-scale war with the Nova Cats over periphery worlds even if worlds like this very one had been valuable to his nation. “I will not take these Trials away from you. But we must limit them.”
“Out of respect for your father, your nations strength and your willingness to negotiate I am willing to discuss this.” Rosse said bowing his head slightly. “I will start the bidding at twelve trials per year, equal to one per month of the year.”
“No, that is far too many, that is more than you presently conduct.” Burton responded annoyed that the Khan had started at such a high number. He preferred having a diplomat with him during a negotiation or having his wife Sterling McKenna, formerly the Khan of Clan Snow Raven providing support.
“Counter my bid First Prince Davion” Khan Rosse said trying to not smile, the First Prince probably saw this as a game but this was part of his life and it had been for his entire fighting career.
“Four trials per calendar year.”
“Ten”
“Six”
“Eight” Rosse said finally following the reduction by two that he had started with. He had not intention in going lower, the First Prince had been willing to increase his agreed number of trials. Eight he could sell to the Nova Cat Clan Council “with one additional modification?”
“I could agree to eight, assuming you would still allow any civilians who wished to leave captured systems to leave? And the eight Trials of Possession would be win or lose contests, your Clan is not allowed to simply continue to fight until you win eight trials, Quiaff?” He asked using the Clan word
“Aff, they may leave should they wish, eight trials win or lose” he agreed
“What is your modification?”
“Should the Federated Suns start a conflict with Clan Nova Cat then we are allowed additional trials equal to the number that your nation launched against out Clan?” He said he would not allow his Clan to be cornered by the Federated Suns and bound to only fight defensively should the Succession State prosecute a war against the Nova Cats.”
“Agreed” First Prince Burton Davion said extending his hand to shake the Nova Cat Khan’s hand.
“Seyla” The Nova Cat Khan said extending his own hand to shake the First Princes hand which they both met with a firm handshake. “Would you like to remain on Crofton for refreshments? I can have our kitchens prepare you a meal before returning to your DropShip?” He asked releasing the First Prince’s hand.
“I shouldn’t” Burton said after a moment “however I would be willing to share food with you to show my respect for you Khan Rosse and your Clan.” Canin Rosse nodded extending his hand showing the First Prince to the office door.
Salvage mission, Unknown Asteroid
Uncharted System, Aurigan Collective
Periphery
19th February 3119
“Alright people lines are attached” the commander of Rampant Company Karen “Sunbird” Andris said “engines are at station keeping, we’re ready let’s see if we can get her up.” She said in the space near the asteroid a Leopard and Mule-class DropShips were hovering nearby both had cables attached to their find ready to assist while Rampant Company itself was around the DropShip and they had spent time digging it out. “0.5G acceleration, take us up” She ordered slowly the DropShip began to lift off away from the asteroid sand tumbling off the off the craft “retract tow cords” she ordered the two DropShips in space began to drag their lines back in with the DropShips engines keeping them up and away from a collision.
Slowly the ninety-seven-thousand-ton DropShip cleared the asteroid and sand continued to climb away from the asteroid “one G acceleration, cut the lines” she said looking around the DropShip’s command deck she like the other members of the on the bridge wore full EVA suits due to the ship’s hull being open to space. “Rampart Company, this is Sunbird, she’s flying” she said smirking looking around the other crewmen. “Federated-Boeing obviously made this thing to last” she said the Argo was ancient dating back to the end of the First Star League era but her company had gotten her into a working condition. “I think we’ve maybe got a new home.”
Clan Raid in Force
Goslar, Hanseatic League
Deep Periphery
28th February 3119
While continuing to search for former Clansmen within the deep periphery Galaxy Commander Connor Rood of Clan Goliath Scorpion leads a conquest of the Goslar system. Far from the Clan Homeworlds the forces under Rood’s command needed a base of operations for which to train and being any found warriors before sending them back to the Clan Homeworlds. On the outskirts of the Hanseatic League and sparsely populated Goslar had made a perfect choice, the more advanced and battle-hardened Goliath Scorpions had made short work of the militia forces defending Goslar and the local population had offered no resistance of their own.
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Good to see this and you back DC.
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Funeral March
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Sun
3rd March 3119
Rarely did a someone born outside the ruling houses of the Federated Suns earn the right to be buried within the grounds of the Royal Cemetery on New Avalon but Galen Cox was a man who had broken the mold, he had served the Federated Suns loyally for decades despite originally being born within the Lyran Commonwealth he had helped hold the nation together during the brief Varnay Civil War and had been inducted into the Order of Davion by Victor Steiner-Davion himself and his wife Danai Centrella-Davion both were dressed in military uniforms of the Federated Suns with all of the awards that they were due.
Today, however it was his funeral. At ninety-nine years of age and after decades of service Galen Cox had passed away at his home on New Avalon, as per his wishes he would be buried on the capital of his adopted home nation and the nation had responded with thousands of members of public lining the streets to pay their respects to a true hero. Escorting Galen’s body on its final journey were four Crusader BattleMechs the same design that he had piloted for most of his career. Behind the coffin were hundreds of officers and warriors who had served with Galen over his years of service in the Federated Commonwealth, Federated Suns and with the Star League Defence Forces. All around the procession were members of the elite First Davion Guards RCT and the First New Avalon Guards RCT, two units which had been close to Galen’s heart and that he had served with on several occasions. With them members of the Royal Black Watch Brigade of Guards, the Rabid Fox, and the Star League Defence Forces’ Special Armed Service all watched ensuring that no-one caused harm to those who were paying their respects to the fallen hero.
After the funeral Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion spends nearly two weeks with members of his family on New Avalon remaining on the world until First Prince Burton Davion returns from Crofton. The First Prince apologises to his father for missing the ceremony but he explains that affairs of state had to come first and that he had wanted Galen to be remembered a hero of his father’s era, that the two of them had served together and that it had seemed fitting. While relations between the two were strained the heart to heart was good for both men.
Race of Noisiel
Noisiel, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
10th March 3119
For decades on the world of Noisiel had been host to a variety of games using Mechs, Battle Armour and tanks, these games had evolved over time adding the great BattleMech race of Noisiel and then in 3094 Duke Michael Alextep added the Tournament 1945 which was a ground-based battle using drone controlled, fuel cell powered, primitive armoured vehicles based on the Armoured Tanks used on Terra during the Second World War. These events alone had made Noisiel almost as popular as Solaris in entertainment at least within the Lyran Commonwealth.
Duke Alextep had not rested on his laurels however and in support of the Tournament 1945 he had built an aircraft industry capable of constructing aircraft from the same era as the drone tanks which took part in the popular deathmatch contest on the planet’s surface. Initially these aircraft performed air displays including a special guest appearance on Solaris before the run up to the Solaris Racing League season. Duke Alextep enjoyed the sceptical of the Solaris Racing League and wanted to create something like the event on Solaris but not the same, not in competition, instead of using modern conventional aircraft the Noisiel race would use “1945-era” conventional aircraft built using recovered schematics from Star League Defence Force records. These aircraft like the ground craft would be powered by fuel cell engines but unlike the armoured vehicles the aircraft would be flown by pilots. With the minimal armour available to these designs this made the competition dangerous at best but Duke Alextep added yet another element which would make it even more lethal. Unlike the Solaris Racing League events which were essentially time trials over a difficult course the Noisiel race would be around a simple oval course. But instead of individual aircraft flying at once all twenty racers would fly around the course at the same time at less than one hundred metres from the ground. The multi-aircraft race and the lower armour available to the aircraft caused multiple crashes which led to the deaths of six pilots, Free Worlds League native Deco Xavier piloting a Supermarine Spitfire replica is victorious in the race.
During the promotion of the event MechWarrior Brittany Hale, the most recent winner of the BattleMech Race of Noisiel, promotes the racing events on the world by taking her modified Ostscout in a race against BattleMechs, vehicles and VTOL aircraft through various sights in and around the race course promoting other areas of Noisiel as well as the known race courses. Supporting Brittany Hale and the ground armour tournament are guards from the Armoured Toads and Gorillas, the armour of the Battle Armour is more than enough to compensate for any missed shots by the ancient armoured vehicles.
Unexplained Explosion
Terada WarShip Yard, Dieron
Northwind EDZ, Star League Protectorate
22nd March 3119
In the Dieron system at the Terada Shipyards work continued as it had for months on end. While the District of Dieron had ceased to exist the shipyards which had produced WarShips for Dieron now produced them for the Star League Defence Force directly. While nowhere near the size of the Star League’s shipyards in the Terran system the Dieron shipyards easily dwarfed the shipyards that were in the Fenwick and they were deeper within the Star League Protectorate behind layers of WarShips and ground troops making them far better protected.
On one of the largest civilian structures of the shipyards CEO Keisuke Nishi sat within his office which was on one of the many gravity decks doing what he did every day, when an alert sounded throughout the complex. Reaching over to the communication system built into the desk he activated the controls “Command, what is going on?” He demanded in Japanese.
“Sir, apologies, but please look at your monitors on bay three!” The controller responded with a slight sense of panic; Nishi would discipline the man when they next spoke, he expected all his people to be always professional. They may no longer be in the Draconis Combine but they should all respect their responsibilities to Honour and Duty.
He changed the controls to bay three and saw several of the monitors were off he was about to berate the someone over the comm systems when he finally found a monitor that was working and he himself was lost for words. One of the recently completed Tatsumaki III-class Destroyers which were waiting to be assigned to a crew had exploded amid-ships from what Nishi knew of the ships it appeared to be near one of the main ammunition bunkers, an area which was heavily armoured and protected, the explosion had come from within the ship and it was tearing the bay apart. He could see that the administration block attached to bay three was ablaze and venting atmosphere and crew were abandoning the complex, hundreds would be dead already and the death toll could still rise.
To make matters worse debris from both the destroyer and the construction bay were impacting the other vessels which were under construction. While technically each bay was an independent entity, they were close enough to support each other with both resources and in times of crisis unfortunately that proximity was working against them now. Suddenly there was a flash of light as the Tatsumaki III-class Destroyer inside Bay Two attempted to jump still within its construction bay as someone onboard the vessel panicked. Almost as soon as the light had subsided Nishi could already see the effects the Tatsumaki along with half of Bay Two were now a twisted mess some parts of the bay were embedded within the WarShip as the Jump Engine had warped space all around them both. Because there were things on both structures now located where they should not be further explosions were tearing through the second destroyer and the construction bay, Nishi was powerless but to watch it all unfold.
Watching the sceptical unfold Nishi could not understand how it was possible, none of the jump cores should be powered while in space dock, and then he remembered that Bays two and four were testing their Jump Engine battery system ensuring that they could hold full capacity power for a jump, he looked at bay four and noticed that the bay had been battered by debris, there were parts of WarShip and dock where the destroyer which had been berthed there had previously been.
Of five operational WarShips at the shipyard only two Tatsumaki III-class vessels remained within their docks both WarShips had been battered by debris from the exploding ships and docks while the entire facility was in crisis mode as areas of the station decompressed and burned. Looking at the reports coming from both ships it appeared that both had suffered hull breaches and were dealing with their own issues following the destruction within the shipyards. Thousands were dead and Terada Shipyards were crippled, all by one simple accident. Straightening his suit Keisuke Nishi walked out of his office and directly towards the command centre hoping to salvage the situation and find out exactly how much damage had been done, and how many of his workers had he lost today.
For the next three months Terada would investigate the explosion using salvaged video and sensor logs. Despite their best efforts they were at a loss as to how the initial explosion had occurred. Every scenario they ran through led to the same conclusion, that the safety protocols built into the WarShip should have prevented a catastrophic explosion but they had failed. This led to further questions regarding the design of the Tatsumaki III which was an evolved design of the original hull leading to questions about the viability and safety of the overall class of vessel.
Further investigations also found that while the SLS Akira Kurita was missing from the shipyard the WarShip, which they all had thought destroyed by a second ill-timed and conceived jump may have survived. Salvaged Tri-vid records showed the WarShip in bay four had cut its ties to the shipyard as soon as the first vessel exploded allowing it to drift far enough clear of the shipyards for its transit drive to be activated. While the ship had only moments to act a quick burst of acceleration and then an immediate jump had taken the ship safely out of the system but so far it had not shown up anywhere and remained missing. Although the incident was officially still classed as an accident several things remained clear, firstly two Tatsumaki-class vessels had been destroyed during the event, two more vessels were damaged to the point of not being serviceable while the fifth previously mentioned Akira Kurita was currently listed as missing/presumed lost in an emergency jump. On Terada shipyards sixteen thousand workers and support staff had been killed and the shipyards themselves while salvageable they were currently crippled and would not be producing any new WarShips for several years.
Planning Room
Lothario, District of Lothario
Free Worlds League
27th March 3119
Wearing an elaborate light pink dress with a purple sash and jewellery Grand Mistress Clarissa Logan entered the ruling council chambers on her capital Lothario over her shoulders she wore the pelt of the Lothario polar bear. The world had come a long way from being the centre point of the Lothian League, as part of the Free Worlds League Lothario was moving forwards by leaps and bounds with the capital city becoming large enough and advanced enough to make all of her people comfortable. In orbit over the planet a JumpShip production yard had been completed which would soon be producing a new class of JumpShip for her District’s fleets. The Free Trader-class JumpShip was two hundred-and-seventy-five-thousand-ton vessel capable of carrying twelve aerospace fighters and four DropShips and they would be capable of making the entire military might of the District of Lothario far more mobile than before.
Approaching the leadership caste of the District of Lothario she smiled taking in their faces. Clarissa Logan was only in her forties and younger than many of the planetary leaders of the District of Lothario. “Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for assembling today here today, I have two announcements to make firstly the Angelina Logan Shipyards are now operational over this world while secondly I am deploying the First through Sixth Lothian Legionnaires into the Southwest Covenant as a peacekeeping force.” She announced informing them all the six new BattleMech regiments her district had raised over the last few years. “These regiments were raised from the equipment discovered in the Star League-era weapons cache on New Venice.” She explained “pilots and fighters from across the District of Lothario have been training for the last year and are ready for deployment.” She said “actions by the Cirincus Federation have placed the Southwest Covenant at the point of capitulation. These people used to be members of the Free Worlds League; we will make sure they are protected from these pirates.”
Within days of the announcement on Lothario the six regiments launched a full assault on the four remaining worlds of the Southwest Covenant taking control over them from the mercenaries and the remaining governments located on each world. Unlike treatment by the Cirincus Federation forces the government workers for the most part are allowed to retain their positions as long as they were willing to follow the direction of the District of Lothario government. On Sierra the BattleCorps Legion is wiped out to the man trying to resist the Lothario invasion. Only on Hardisey’s Haven is there a similar occurrence where The City Boyz combined-arms regiment are also forcefully disarmed by the District of Lothario troops. Unfortunately for both the BattleCorps and The City Boyz units are no match for the Star League tech equipped regiments fielded by the District of Lothario.
In an election year on Atreus Lothario’s independent action by Lothario following the actions by Oriente threaten the very leadership of Atreus and the coordination on Oriente. At the other side of the Free Worlds League Oriente continues to attack Capellan Confederation systems in unilateral action with no support from Atreus or the Free Worlds League government. Actions by these two nations cause issues and debate on Atreus which leads to a lot of anger directed at the two districts.
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System Survey, Saratoga (Intrepid A-class ArcShip)
Paran, Chainelane Isle
Sea Fox Territory, Periphery
2nd April 3119
Straight from its refit at the shipyard in the Chainelane Isles the Saratoga jumped into the Paran system. Originally an Intrepid-class Troopship built for war by ComStar, had been configured as a new class of ArcShip for Clan Sea Fox. As part of the refurbishment the class’s internal BattleMech complement had been removed, several of the standard scale anti-aircraft weapons had been removed and replaced with Sub-Capital weapons reducing the crew requirements, its anti-missile systems expanded, as had the fuel storage capacity been increased and one Aqueduct-class DropShip and three Mammoth-class DropShips had been permanently attached to the hull at their collars. Because of the additional mass added to the hull with the DropShips added the ship’s effective minimum force had been reduced to a single gravity of acceleration. With these modifications a total of seven thousand civilian families made the vessel their home, they lived, worked and trained for the betterment of Clan Sea Fox.
With the refurbishments and changes done to the ship the Saratoga needed an extensive testing leading to it being assigned to an exploration mission in the Paran system. During its time in the system the Sea Foxes would test the WarShips systems from before the refurbishment to ensure they were still operational and unhindered by the changes. They would also be checking the transit drives to see if they could cope with the near constant 1G acceleration the craft would be using. The Paran system had been chosen for a specific reason when the Sea Foxes had first taken steps to take military control over the Chainelane Isles they had heard stories of the SLS Pioneer.
The Avatar-class Cruiser had been commissioned into the original Star League Defence Forces navy as an exploration and scientific vessel which was operated by the Star League Expeditionary Brigade. The Sea Foxes had been curious about the vessel and done an initial search but had failed to find her now when a ship completed its construction or refitting at the shipyards they came here for testing and to search another part of the system searching for the missing Cruiser. So far eight ships had completed their trials in the system but star systems and the space beyond them were vast.
Trial of Reaving
Cuneo, Rushaven
Raven Alliance
12th April 3119
Jeremy Howe was going to die, he knew this, he had known this since about three minutes ago when his Crimson Langur’s had lost its right arm and its longest ranged weapon, its extended-range large laser. Now he was reduced to two heavy medium lasers against a OmniMech that had a particle projection cannon, two lasers which matched his own and a six-tube streak equipped short range missile launcher. And with his death his only hope was that his genes would be passed on would be in a now reduced Bloodhouse he thought angrily as he ran the OmniMech at over one hundred kilometres per hour as a man-made lightning blast flew past him missing his Langur by metres. Dancing his fifty-ton OmniMech to the left he twisted the torso and fired both heavy medium lasers into the charging Craven. The enemy pilot Richard Cooper had given up trying to snipe at him and was now charging the Craven opened fire with its particle cannon and short-range missile launcher as it closed the particle cannon slammed into the Mech’s left chest tearing through the armour there penetrating the fusion engine. Warm air rushed into the cockpit as the damaged engine’s shielding was compromised Jeremy gasped for breath in the searing heat as the short-range missiles peppered his BattleMech, there was nowhere to run. He locked on and triggered both heavy medium lasers burning into the Craven’s armour but it was not enough to stop the enemy Mech which had fired both of its own heavy medium lasers at the same time. Opal coloured heavy laser beams criss-crossed in between the Mechs and the last thing that Jeremy Howe experienced was the lasers burning through the OmniMech’s cockpit incinerating him ending the trial.
The Trial had not been Jeremy Howe’s idea, he had not even been involved in the decision for the trial to take place, instead he had been picked as the champion in a political fight between the Howe and Cooper Bloodhouses. The Cooper Bloodhouse believed that the Howe Bloodhouse was weak and had been the cause of a great number of the recent trials with the Draconis Combine the Howe family had refuted this and it had led to a series of Circle of Equal challenges as individual warriors disagreed fought, and in several cases died. Khan Porter McKenna had decided enough was enough and ordered a Trial of Reaving to sort out the disagreement, while some had seen it as an extreme case but it also made things clear to all the Bloodhouses that should a disagreement not be settled quickly then he could and he would take it to the next level and punish the Bloodhouse that could not match its argument with its fighting prowess.
The fighting in the Rushaven system was not over with the Snow Raven Trial however as the Draconis Combine launched an invasion of the system only a day after the Trial of Reaving. In the system the Ravens had three WarShips but it was no match for what the Draconis Combine had brought to the fight in total nine Draconis Combine WarShips invaded the Rushaven system. Following a recent re-organisation of the Draconis Combine Admiralty’s forces the Draconis Combine deployed a force now known as Carrier Force One. This new grouping which was specifically brought together for invasions or defences involved three massive carriers, two Omi Kurita-class Carriers with aerospace fighters and one Akagi-class Assault Carrier with Land Air Mechs. Supporting these craft were six Kirishima II-class Cruisers which defended the carriers and added naval firepower to the group. Adding in the massed assault DropShips and Pocket WarShips the nine WarShips quickly overpowered and destroyed the Snow Raven WarShips.
Four of the Kirishima II-class Cruisers are destroyed in the fighting but among the vessels destroyed on the Snow Raven side is the Montbatton, a Texas-class Battleship which dated back to the first Star League-era, the vessel was also the flagship of saKhan Lydia Sukhanov resulting in her death. Also destroyed during the battle is the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Lord Death, another vessel which had survived from the first Star League-era. The result of the battle leads to another Trial of Reaving where the Sukhanov Bloodhouse is also reduced in strength by one Blood Heritage. The Draconis Combine does not push position from the Rushaven system instead content with one victory and what they see as a successful test of their newest WarShip formation. One thing that the Snow Ravens do realize is that they need to concentrate on Battleship and Carrier production if they want to defeat the Draconis Combine with their new formations. Ashkhan McCorkell wins a Trial of Possession and the support of the Clan Council to become the new saKhan.
Trial of Possession
Alexandretta, Alexandria
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
27th April 3119
The star of OmniMechs charged through the forest near Alexandretta MechWarrior Daeron Jerricho smiled viciously as his OmniMech ran through the trees intending on outflanking the Sixth Isle of Skye Guards RCT. The OmniMech was brand new, manufactured at a new factory in the Blue Diamond system, but the design was as old as the Clans it was in-fact the first OmniMech the Coyotl. Recently brought back from the grave the Coyotl was filling the ranks of Clan Coyote. Daeron’s unit the recently formed Ninety-sixth Striker Cluster was made up exclusively of eight stars of the nimble forty-ton Coyotl design with Elementals and a star of aerospace fighters in support.
Despite the age of the design Daeron Jerricho loved the Coyotl it was fast, well armoured, and well-armed. For this mission knowing he would be going into a close-range battle with infantry, battle armour and armour he had chosen the alternate C configuration which gave him an extended-range large laser, plasma cannon and a six-tube Advanced Tactical Missile launcher, which for this mission had close range high explosive munitions. The OmniMech also had an Electronic Counter Measures suite which helped hide the BattleMechs in their current mission.
Smashing aside the trees with green and blue leaves the first of five Coyotls burst into the clearing near the eastern flank of the Sixth Isle of Skye Guards. “Engage!” Star Captain Amanda Heller called out; she was riding on Jerricho’s Coyotl back in her Elemental Battle Armour suite. While her suit was painted white like all the other Elemental suits on its helmet was a silver coyote’s head. He reached out with his right arm mounted laser and blasted a Lyran Red Shift BattleMech burning the arm and torso of the enemy Mech. “Keep moving, break through their lines we need to get to their support personnel. Our other forces will engage their main line forces.” Behind the first five OmniMechs came another five and another five each of them carrying five elementals dressed in their battle armour. At the same time two other Clusters of Coyotes hit the main defence lines. The Lyran Regimental Combat Team were ill prepared for the Coyote assault as the entire cluster of Coyotl OmniMechs burst through line after line of defenders. From every Coyote OmniMech weapons fire flew into enemy Mechs, armour and infantry troopers as all thoughts of Clan Duelling laws were forgotten. The Coyotes had brought four Clusters to the planet and they had decided that duelling laws were not to be followed. “Take us to that Atlas! Then keep going Daeron lead the star into our backlines wipe them out. If you do well today you will be commanding this star tomorrow.”
“Aff, Star Captain, win honour today” he said to her as the forty-ton OmniMech ran past, from the OmniMech five Elementals launched into the air firing short range missiles into the Atlas before jumping onto the BattleMech into the support area behind the main battle lines. “Wipe them off the face of this planet, target all support assets!” Daeron said as he twisted the OmniMech’s torso he opened up with the plasma cannon and fired a salvo of high explosive missiles. The yellow-coloured plasma cannon blast was fired into several Mechbays burning the equipment and the technicians there while the missiles flew into an ammunition store setting off a huge explosion.
“Point 2, Point 2! We have incoming Battle Armour and Mechs they have Star League colours and the insignia of the Tenth Special Operations Group!” Someone shouted, Daeron Jerricho realized they were shouting on him for orders.
“Excellent, proper enemies turn into them!” Jerricho ordered even without rank the other MechWarriors listened, the star’s MechWarrior commander was dead. Without their supporting Elementals they would be a match for most enemy Mechs even if the power armour became a problem. More and more Coyotl’s staggered through the Lyran lines several with Elementals still on board.
“This is MechWarrior Daemon Jerricho acting commander of lead BattleMech star, Elementals engage the battle armour, MechWarriors be alert there is an entire battalion coming in and it looks like Star League Special Forces be, careful Quiaff?”
“Aff, MechWarrior” they answered and the Coyotls moved quickly towards the enemy the Elementals launching from their frames as they ran. From his position Jerricho opened fire with his Mech’s laser supporting their movements striking a seventy-ton Archer BattleMech.
With Zellbrigen being ignored BattleMechs and Battle Armour were flying and firing in all directions and Daeron Jerricho was in the middle of it from the Archer he laid down cover fire for a point of Elementals firing ATMs into a group of SLDF Battle Armoured troopers. Missiles came back towards Daeron’s OmniMech but the Coyotl was already in motion reaching out with the Mech’s arm Daeron fired his large laser into a Star League painted Shadow Hawk BattleMech just as the medium Mech was hit by a tight grouping of long-range missiles. As the front of the Shadow Hawk exploded under the coat of missiles Daeron’s laser burned into the Mech’s side penetrating the damaged Mech. Something inside the Star League Mech exploded setting off a chain reaction of explosions with the only thing saving the Mech being the CASE equipment built into the ammo bins.
Running his Mech through the battlefield Daeron Jerricho slowed his OmniMech enough to allow a point of five Elementals to leap through the air landing on the forty-ton Mech’s speeding form. The Coyotl was mostly a humanoid form OmniMech with the right arm made up primarily with the extended-range large laser. The Coyotl rocked slightly as the Elementals arranged themselves as a Trueborn bloodnamed warrior Daeron Jerricho did not miss a step and continued to accelerate even as the Elementals arranged themselves on the Mech’s back. Running forwards several hundred metres the Elementals short ride onboard the medium OmniMech came to an end as they launched off the Coyotl landing on a Salamander Assault BattleMech. The Salamander was a support BattleMech with multiple long range missile launchers Daeron Jerricho waited until the Elementals were off the Mech then he twisted the torso towards the Salamander hitting the eighty-ton BattleMech was double the Coyotl’s weight and stood almost double its height but now the MechWarrior was distracted by the landing Elementals and Jerricho made it worse adding in a plasma cannon shot and a flight of ATMs straight into the assault Mech’s left flank. He had to watch his shots with his Elementals who were now attacking from onboard the BattleMech, but Daeron continued to circle the Salamander firing his weapons when he got a clear shot. Finally, a high explosive salvo of ATMs slammed into the Salamander’s right leg causing the knee to explode ending the BattleMech’s battle as it tumbled towards the ground. The Elementals were not finished and they continued to attack the fallen BattleMech until the pilot issued his surrender no doubt worried about the battle armoured troopers tearing into his Mech’s armour with their razor-sharp battle claws.
“This is saKhan Vladamir Heller” the communication cracked to life bringing Daeron Jerricho back to reality for a moment “all Coyote forces stand down. I have received a message of surrender from the Lyran forces and have accepted their request for Hegira. All Lyran forces will be allowed to retreat if they end all hostile acts. Alexandria is ours.” He said the message ended and Daeron throttled down the Coyotl’s speed, his new OmniMech had done well in its first battle. He did not think he had a single personal kill during their flanking battle but he had driven the attack an elemental landed in front of him he could see the insignia on its helmet despite the battle damage a silver painted Coyote’s head.
“Well done MechWarrior” Star Captain Amanda Heller said her suit so small compared to his BattleMech but the complete opposite to the massive hulking warrior that Heller was. “You took command when you needed to and you aided in our victory. Now you must prepare, you will face a Trial of Position in the morning for command of this star.” She said before turning her suit and jumping away with the suit’s jump jets. Today’s battle was over but the fight was not over for Clan warriors until they were dead and tomorrow would be another challenge.
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Trial of Refusal
Goslar, Hanseatic League
Deep Periphery
2nd May 3119
Although the Goliath Scorpions had been operating in the Hanseatic League for two months without real opposition rescuing a total of thirty Clan born warriors and nearly two hundred civilians in the process their actions had drawn the attention of Clan Blood Spirit. From orbit the Clan commander Star Colonel Lionel Cluff had challenged the Goliath Scorpion ground forces to a Trial of Refusal citing that while an entire Cluster had been in the Hanseatic League for more two months, they had barely recovered a clusters worth of warriors, and even less equipment. Cluff believed that the Clan’s attention should be on the homeworlds and challenged the Goliath Scorpions to a Trial of Refusal. Because it was a standard trial the two Clans had lined up opposite each other, with both Clans fielding a Trinary of troops on the battlefield. MechWarrior Jasec waited in his Whipscorpion BattleMech watching as the Blood Spirits approached, he spied a Blood Spirit Ice Ferret OmniMech and decided that was his target. “This is MechWarrior Jasec of Clan Goliath Scorpion to the warrior piloting the green and red Ice Ferret, I challenge you to a duel of equals.”
“We are not equal MechWarrior Jasec, I am Erik Posavatz of Clan Blood Spirit, I accept your challenge.” His opponent responded the Ice Ferret dancing to the side and it fired its left arm extended range particle projection cannon which barely missed the Whipscorpion.
Running to the right Jasec used his BattleMech’s advanced tactical missile launchers to engage the dodging Ice Ferret six missiles flew in on the enemy Mech with only three of them striking their target. Another particle cannon shot flew towards the Whipscorpion striking the forty-ton BattleMech’s right leg burning away the armour and exposing the structure underneath one of the BattleMech’s jump jets showed inactive and the knee actuator was damaged. “Stavag!” he said angrily launching the Whipscorpion into the air on its remaining jump jets angling towards the running Ice Ferret. Jasec feathered the jump jets controlling the flight dropping down towards his enemy he unleashed the BattleMech’s two improved heavy medium lasers hitting the Ice Ferret with everything he could muster only one of the beams hit as the Whipscorpion fell the beam slammed into the Ice Ferret’s left leg. Like the particle cannon shot which had hit his own Mech Jasec was glad to see the beam wrought chaos on Ice Ferret’s armour burning through to the structure. The other beam missed by a few feet and slammed into the ground beside the OmniMech where it turned the turf beside the Ice Ferret into glass.
The forty-five-ton OmniMech fired its particle cannon again but this time it missed its target. On landing the Whipscorpion began running again Jasec kept his aim on his target launching another two flights of ATMs at the enemy OmniMech. All six missiles were armed with high-explosive munitions and four of them slammed into the Ice Ferret blowing away pieces of armour away from the Blood Spirit OmniMech. Two short range missiles flew from the Ice Ferret slamming into the Whipscorpion guided by its streak suite one of the two missiles slammed into the Whipscorpion’s head throwing Jasec around the cockpit. His head slammed into the side of the command chair and only the presence of the neurohelmet stopped the impact splitting his head open. Jasec triggered both plasma cannons out of rage, one missed the Ice Ferret but the other heated ball of plasma slammed into the Ice Ferret. The heat washed over the Ice Ferret just as the pilot triggered his particle cannon, the man-made lightning launcher flew over the Whipscorpion missing widely the heat produced by the weapon and the ongoing rising heat caused by the Plasma Cannon caused the Ice Ferret to stumble and stagger as its heat system was overwhelmed. To add to the Ice Ferret’s wows the streak launcher obtained a lock and the two-tube launcher fired its missiles adding to the OmniMech’s heat problems. As both missiles slammed into the Whipscorpion’s right arm Jasec could see the Ice Ferret was struggling to track his BattleMech’s movements so he accelerated and continued behind the OmniMech unleashing both heavy medium lasers again, moments later he launched another high-explosive flight of advanced tactical missiles into the OmniMech.
The lasers savaged the back of the Ice Ferret burning through the armour causing havoc in the rear of the OmniMech with engine and possibly gyroscope damage occurring. Moments after the lasers hit their target the six missiles slammed into the back of the Mech, all six hitting their target causing even more damage, too much damage. The Ice Ferret rocked as explosions continued to rock the insides of the, stumbled and fell to the ground in a crumpled heap disabled. While having heavier weapons gave a pilot an advantage over the other being able to manage heat build-up was even more important.
Twisting away from the downed Ice Ferret Jasec spotted five damaged painted red and black Elemental Battle Armour suits. “Elemental point, this is the Whipscorpion pilot on your left, I challenge you to a battle of equals”
“Seyla” the lead Elemental responded saying nothing else all five launched into the air releasing their remaining short-range missiles. Ten missiles between the suits flew towards the Whipscorpion even as their launchers fell away from their suits. Jasec opened with both plasma cannons and the advanced tactical missile launchers filling the air with munitions attempting to engage the flying battle armour suits.
The suits and missiles converged in mid-air as missiles slammed into several of the elementals followed by the balls of burning plasma. Two of the elemental suits lost control flying out of formation just as the remaining missiles slammed into the Whipscorpion four slammed into the already damaged right leg crippling the limb. While nothing broke or fell off the BattleMech Jasec noticed he had no control over the limb and he swore triggering his lasers coring a third Elemental suit. The last two suits landed on the Whipscorpion’s chest and fired their small lasers burning into the chest armour of the BattleMech. “Enjoy this” Jasec whispered triggering both torso mounted ATM launchers at point blank range the missiles exploded almost as soon as they left their launchers sending limbs of elemental troopers in various directions as they over penetrated the armour knocking both warriors off the BattleMech disabling or killing the Blood Spirits. The damage to the Whipscorpion was almost equally vicious to the Whipscorpion the explosion blew back disabling both missile launchers and knocking the Whipscorpion back off its feet as Jasec struggled to control his Mech with the disabled right leg. The fall twisted and snapped the broken limb leaving the Whipscorpion flat on its back.
Just because one leg was broken did not mean a Mech was out of the fight. Jasec immediately pushed out with both arms propping up the Whipscorpion. He looked for another target sighting a fast-moving pair of Mithras Light Tanks “Armour point this is MechWarrior Jasec, I challenge you” even as he finished speaking the two tanks opened fire with their light-class ultra-autocannons and medium lasers savaging the Whipscorpion’s chest. The immobile Whipscorpion was an easy target for the two tanks but it wasn’t one without teeth Jasec brought one arm up and fired at one of the vehicles missing wildly, the angle was different than he was used to being essentially sat down, moments after the laser fired he’d targeted both plasma cannons as well, they didn’t miss their target and the two plasma shots burned through the armour and caused a fire inside the vehicle, the twenty-five ton tracked vehicle burned for a moment before exploding in a fireball. The remaining Mithras was far enough away not to be affected by the explosion and the crew were ready to resume their attack the ultra-autocannon and laser both cored into the cockpit of the Whipscorpion killing Jasec immediately.
The efforts of MechWarrior Jasec had not been in vain however killing an OmniMech, a point of elementals and crippling a point of vehicles had been enough to help the Goliath Scorpions to a victory of Clan Blood Spirit. The victory meant that Clan Blood Spirit would return to the Clan Homeworlds while the Goliath Scorpions would be allowed to continue their efforts to find reinforcements within the Hanseatic League.
Training Camp
Outskirts of Macheema, Arcturus
Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
18th May 3119
The founding capital of the Lyran Commonwealth before the leadership moved to Tharkad and then a Province capitol for centuries the world of Arcturus was now deep within the Occupation Zone of Clan Hell’s Horses. Arcturus was not the capitol of the OZ but it was important to the Hell’s Horses serving as a manufacturing and training centre. One thing that people did not think about when they fought about the Clans was the freeborn warriors who also received training to serve the Clan. Arcturus with its plentiful population was one such world where freeborns learned how to serve and fight for the Clan. While there were some civilians within the occupied worlds of the occupation zones would never serve the Clans that now controlled their worlds, in some cases there were still those that dreamed of “freedom” from their Clan oppressors but these movements were routinely crushed by the Watch units employed by the Clans. To serve with the Clan’s Touman freeborn recruits from the population went through many checks and an even more rigorous training regime than those who were born from within the Clan population and breeding programs. Unlike the Ghost Bears, Sea Foxes and Nova Cats which integrated Clan born and native born freeborns into one training program, the Hell’s Horses took an approach like that of Clans Wolf and Jade Falcon which kept the population’s separate. They also trained them with sub-standard weapons and equipment which often dated back to the succession wars.
Over a sprawling training complex which was north of the planetary capital hundreds of recruits practiced drills and trained in preparation for their initial Trial of Position. The noise was like any other across the Inner Sphere with men and women gasping for breath, boots stamping on the courtyard ground and the almost rhythmic crack of semi-automatic weapons fire as recruits practiced. This noise was drowned out by the sound of a VTOL approaching in the blue sky above the facility a Garuda Heavy VTOL appeared high above. The single rotored snub-nosed craft turned as it approached the facility below as if it was turning towards the landing pads but instead of lowering in altitude the Garuda opened fire with its forward mounted long range missile launcher which sent fifteen missiles down on the VTOL which was based at the training facility blowing it to pieces. The VTOL’s second action was to use its chin mounted laser to vaporise a guard tower causing an explosion which killed several members of the Hell’s Horse guard staff as burning wreckage from the tower showers the ground crushing several people below. Even as the Garuda circled the training base below the laser spat out again this time blowing up a supply building off the right of the VTOL, the laser was mounted on a chin turret which hung under the cockpit of the craft. As the laser flew across the camp below the targeted building burst into flames, within moments of the fire starting there was a gigantic explosion as the ammunition contained within burned off and exploded. Moments later the missile launcher activated again this time missiles flew into the main training complex with missiles flying through the windows on the first floor causing a massive internal explosion. Although it was a military complex the building was not designed to take military grade weapons and it was quickly enveloped in fire.
Small arms fire from the trainees and guards below raised into the sky as the Garuda circled the camp alternating between lasers and missiles pounding the facility and those that occupied it. The Hell’s Horses had nothing that could oppose the VTOL as black smoke from the supply building, and most of their ammunition filled the air and further obscured the Garuda. The troops on the ground were still firing into the air when there was a large “boom” from above as the VTOL activated its jet assisted booster engine and accelerated away from the training camp at high speed.
For days the Hell’s Horses locked down Arcturus searching for the renegade VTOL but to no avail the VTOL was confirmed to have been stolen from a Hell’s Horses supply depot three hours before the attack on the training base. The attack itself had taken no longer than three minutes and in that time nearly three hundred Hell’s Horses trainers and trainees had been killed or injured. On the planet-wide public address system an individual claiming to be Kafka, the legendary assassin who it was thought had been killed on the world, claims responsibility for the attack. The individual remains in shadow and they cannot be identified, they call on all people on Arcturus too resist the illegal Clan occupation.
Anti-Clan Strikes
Clan Occupation Zones
23rd May 3119
In an effort to bolster public opinion regarding their opposition to the “Clan Menace” on the borders and to foster closer ties with the SLDF Archon Jessica Steiner authorises strikes by the LCAF and SLDF against Clan Wolf and Clan Jade Falcon. In a series of assaults supported by Lyran and Star League Naval forces the combined forces liberate the systems of Cameron and Gibbs from the Jade Falcons and Nestor and Concord from Clan Wolf. In the Gibbs system the Fleet Admiral Lynn Hood Battlegroup of three Hyperion II-class Heavy Cruisers, supported by the SLDF’s SLS Victor Focht an Enterprise II-class Supercarrier destroy the Texas-class Battleship Falcon’s Nest at the cost of the LCS Fleet Admiral Lynn Hood herself.
Poised to attack Tharkad itself two Elite Gamma Galaxy Clusters of Jade Falcons are wiped out on Gibbs by the combined forces of two elite RCTs and a brigade of SLDF troops. While in the Wolf Empire two Clusters of Wolves are similarly destroyed. The Isle of Skye commends the Lyran Commonwealth and SLDF’s efforts but they point out that the Clans are closing on Hesperus II, which the Lyran Commonwealth have said many times over the centuries is one of the critical worlds to the realm yet none of the systems which have been retaken are anywhere near the Isle of Skye world continuing it leave it vulnerable to Clan assault. In an effort to keep the Isle of Skye onside Concord is added to the worlds under the remit of the Isle these actions however leads to other disposed nobles to petition the Lyran Commonwealth High Command to liberate their conquered worlds.
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Evacuation
Clan Blood Spirit Landing Zone
Hellgate, Clan Homeworlds
8th June 3119
As BattleMechs, vehicles and battle armour fought as civilians and equipment were evacuated into six egg shaped DropShips. The sky of Hellgate was darkened by smoke and ash as another massive double explosion echoed through the area moments later another mushroom cloud rose into the air, ash blew across the ground slamming into the DropShips and evacuating troops, one crippled BattleMech was literally blown to the ground. Walking out of the darkness and approaching the evacuation site were two lines of identical BattleMechs, each line numbering twenty BattleMechs, all of them were painted blue and silver, a stark contrast to the red and brown BattleMechs of Clan Blood Spirit. These Mechs while they looked completely different from the defenders, they moved through the Blood Spirit lines without opposition before turning around and facing the enemies of the Blood Spirits.
Each BattleMech was painted the same and was of the same design with two large shoulder mounted long range missile launchers, each arm ended in two machine guns with a laser under-slung beside them. Between the two large missile launchers sat the bulbous cockpit while below them along the central-line was another medium laser. The fifty-ton design was a two-legged design and on the thigh of each leg was a two-tube short range missile launcher, it was a design that had been extinct in the Clan Homeworlds for over one hundred years and was known as the CS-1 Fox and it was one of the first BattleMechs constructed by Clan Sea Fox. During their time in the Clan Homeworlds the Blood Spirits and Goliath Scorpions had been making a concentrated effort to open the Brian Caches created since the dawning of the Clans and to use that equipment to engage the Society’s forces.
Behind the new line of Fox BattleMechs one of the DropShips launched off the ground as Clan Blood Spirit aerospace forces attempted to defend its rise. As the Overlord C-class DropShip rose into the sky on a trail of fire there was another gigantic explosion as another nuclear weapon exploded. This one even closer than the last the blast rolled over the launching site and the taking off Overlord C, the DropShip rolled over out of control spinning down towards the ground out of control. Moments later a huge explosion followed as the DropShip impacted on the ground destroying the DropShip and killing every person on vessel.
With the destruction of one DropShip the Blood Spirits upped their evacuation efforts entering the remaining three DropShips as more nuclear weapons exploded in the distance the planet’s name was Hellgate and today it was turning into a reality. A few brave souls, the old and the injured mainly remained behind as a final rear-guard while fixed defences were set to automatic. As many of the remaining survivors crammed into the remaining DropShips as they launched from the surface of the planet heading up into the atmosphere. Aerospace fighters of the Blood Spirits and Society duelled around the DropShips as the Clan’s left the dying world of Hellgate for the last time. Today the Society could claim a pyrrhic victory while they had driven off or killed all remaining Clan influences on the world their efforts had destroyed Hellgate and the remaining population would have to leave or be wiped out within months of the final battle.
Trial of Possession
Enif, Military District of Pesht
Draconis Combine
16th June 3119
A Trial of Possession between the Fifteenth Ghost Regiment and the First Cataphract Cluster of Clan Snow Raven’s Hawk’s Head Galaxy sees the introduction of the War Crow Heavy OmniMech. Designed as a follow on from the Craven and the Carrion Crow Medium OmniMechs unlike the previous two designs the War Crow is seventy tons and built from the ground up as a main battle line design capable of carrying twenty-five tons of weapons and equipment. The War Crow had a pair of large over shoulder missile launchers, heavy weapon arms and a beak like hook-like low slung cockpit.
The battle on the surface of the world expands quickly from a simple trial into an all-out brawl with the two sides slugging it out for hours. The Snow Ravens air superiority eventually proves too much for the Fifteenth Ghost even with their Battalion of Land Air Mechs supporting the ground forces both on the air and in the ground. Eventually the Draconis Combine defenders surrender with over a regiment’s worth of personnel, survivors from the combined units which lost the trial are taken off the planet and transported to a world previously known as JP-M-774.
The system which was near the Draconis Combine border had recently been renamed as Montbatten in honour of the recently lost Texas-class Battleship of the same name. While currently not completely habitable the Snow Ravens had found that Montbatten held significant amounts of natural resources which they could use on other worlds. The members of the Fifteenth Ghost would be used as a work force in the many mines that the Snow Ravens were building on the world, these warriors are little more than slave labour for the Clans military working in very harsh conditions on the world’s surface.
Vision Quest, Ways of Seeing Park
New Barcella, Core Territory
Nova Cat’s Den
22nd June 3119
The Ways of Seeing park on New Barcella was a place of pilgrimage for many Nova Cats the lush undisturbed nature park was used as a breeding ground for nova cats and for Vision Quests. The Oathmaster controlled the number of visits that could be taken monthly there was a delicate balance between nature and Vision Quests which the Nova Cats jealously defended. Other places within Nova Cat’s Den were used occasionally by Nova Cat’s but the grounds of the Ways of Seeing Park were particularly important to the Clansmen.
Moving through the underbrush Star Captain Kev Rosse was looking for the perfect place for a vision quest, Kev Rosse was in his mid-twenties a trueborn MechWarrior, he was dressed in Nova Cat furs from top to bottom. Unlike most MechWarriors he wore his dark hair to shoulder length while in both ears he wore an earring which held a green Jade Falcon feather. He was armed with a survival knife which he used to cut down brush and defend himself against any threats although it would not be easy. A dark fur covered nova cat bounded past him, it was one of the main predators in the Ways of Seeing Park, but this one did not see interested in him it turned and looked at him snarling once before jumping clear.
After three days making his way through the underbrush Kev was in no mood to fight a nova cat and he let it go watching the bushes where the nova cat had gone carefully, he decided to make his camp here taking the animal’s appearance as a sign. He spent nearly thirty minutes clearing the area of underbrush and setting a fire before beginning his meditations. A Nova Cat warrior’s vision quest was a very personal thing where they sacrificed vineers, souvenirs taken in battle, in an effort to bring a vision which would show them the future.
For hours Kev sat in front of the fire searching for a vision before finally a nova cat appeared in front of him and snarled but not in an aggressive way instead it seemed to enjoy the heat from his fire. The big cat then turned around and began to walk away for a moment, when Kev did not move the cat snarled at him again prompting him to stand and move away from the fire. For what felt like miles Kev followed the cat through the undergrowth until they entered a clearing which was covered by low grazing grass. Out on the plain in front of them Kev saw an entire herd of what appeared to be bulls, forty or more of them, there were no such creatures in this area of the planet nor were the indigenous creatures on New Barcella like these bulls. The indigenous bulls were small in stature and were covered in brown black fur and they had four small horns these were larger, they had two large horns which extended sideways from their skulls and they were solid gold in colouring.
Beside Kev the Nova Cat snarled angrily its red, yellow, and orange coloured sunburst mane was standing on end threatening the bulls away from attacking. The nova cat while smaller than the bulls was the aggressor moving forward on the herd, against one bull the cat would have a chance at bringing down one of the herd animals but against them all there was more of a chance of the cat being trampled. Kev stood and watched as the nova cat continued to snarl while it stepped forwards but its mane slowly lowered as it got closer. Instead of attacking the cat joined the bull for a moment before moving off and joining Kev once more, the herd now appeared more aggressive with what almost like they were armoured, their horns looked sharper and more defined, the herd was also now coloured gold. The nova cat hissed at them once more and the herd turned and charged away from Kev, the nova cat beside him looked up tilting its head before leaping after the hard breaking into a run, Kev ran after the cat following it only a short distance before he saw the herd charge down a nearby rise. Reaching the top of the rise Rosse looked down and saw the herd was charging a massive fortress, which he knew was not of Nova Cat construction, the herd did not stop smashing their way through the gates inside they continued to smash the knights inside trampling under their heavy hooves and gorging them with their horns. Beside Kev the nova cat hissed and snarled at the scene below seeing defenders streaming away from the base the nova cat leapt towards them cutting them down. “I think I understand” he said quietly.
“Do you?” a voice asked snapping Kev back into reality, he was still sitting at the fire opposite him was the huge form of the Oathmaster Klick Lenardon, the Oathmaster was in his thirties almost ten years older than Kev Rosse.
“I think I do” he repeated “Clan Nova Cat cannot fight all of its battles by itself, there are targets beyond our reach but we can use others to do what we need to do.” He said the bull was the emblem of the Taurian Concordat which shared a sizable border with the Federated Suns, recently the Federated Suns had begun to resist the Nova Cats efforts to seize territory through Trials of Possession.
“But we must be careful, those you speak of arming have been our opponents in battle and there is nothing that says they will turn against those we want them to. Quiaff?” Lenardon cautioned his voice was quite soft for someone of his size.
“Aff, Oathmaster, I think I know how we could do this.”
“You have a plan Kev Rosse, Quiaff?”
“I think I do” he said thinking about a scenario, “I must now convince the Khan.” He said thinking further about his vision and his plan. “You will support my vision, Quiaff?”
“I will discuss with the Khan that you experienced a vision” Klick Lenardon confirmed he said rising from his position near the fire “may your visions guide you Kev Rosse.”
Ullmark Plasma Productions
Morrice, Trylon
Aurigan Collective, Periphery
29th June 3119
The Ullmark Plasma Productions factory had been a godsend for the city of Morrice on Trylon. Before the factory had been built by Count Mikhail Ullmark unemployment had been rife in the small city now more than six hundred people were employed there. Josef Potty was one of the lucky ones to call the factory their workplace the construction of the factory and then the jobs that followed had saved Josef’s life, before he was unemployed trying to look after three children one of which suffered from several medical conditions, he had taken several jobs to support his family but the Plasma Productions factory had brought stability for the family.
“Morning Josef” the gate guard Jacob Smith greeted him as he arrived for the morning shift at work “how is Dakota?” He asked seeing the older man arrive, Dakota was his youngest child and she had suffered from medical problems since her birth.
“Urm… sorry what Jacob?” Josef asked obviously distracted
“Dakota, how is she?” Jacob repeated
“Excited” Josef admitted “she and Katja have been packing for hours, they should be launching soon. It is her first-time off world.” He explained
“I’m not surprised, an important trip, this could change her life.” Jacob said, everyone knew Josef’s story and his daughter’s plight. After years of saving and a whip around among the six hundred workers at the plant had allowed for the family to pay for a trip into the Capellan Confederation for treatment. His wife Katja would take the three children on the trip while he continued to work to keep the family going.
“Yes, she isn’t thinking about that right now just being weightless.” He said laughing as he walked through the gate and entered the facility.
It took him nearly twenty minutes to get to the reactor control room at the rear of the facility. As a newly built facility it had its own fusion power plant which allowed the factory to operated twenty-four hours a day. He arrived at his seat and looked over the systems, his back to back had left already, there were three others in the control room looking at their own screens. Josef logged into the system and loaded up his systems he glanced over the systems and almost immediately noticed trouble he stood up and slammed the emergency button on the wall before going onto the intercom button. “ALL HANDS WE HAVE A PRESSURE BUILD UP IN THE REACTOR! EVERYONE OUT!” He shouted at the top of his voice turning seeing the other three members standing nearby “get the hell out of here, it’s going up!” He warned them, he did not know the cause but one off the coolant lines had been completely shut off and the reactor was unable to clear the excess heat. He did not know how long it had been like that but the damage was too much to be stopped.
He turned back to the controls and attempted to boost the coolant from the other lines to buy his colleagues time but there was little he could do. He began to run after his colleagues through the facility just as the pressure reached critical levels. Running through the facility Josef could not think about anything but his girls hoping that they were off planet before the explosion that would soon come. Even as he climbed the ladder up to the exit level Josef had hopes of escaping the power plant but it was not to be the reactor finally gave up and its shielding failed the resulting explosion tore through the facility incinerating the power plant and anyone who remained inside. The explosions blew through the rear of the factory blowing open the facility causing heavy damage further explosions resulted inside the factory as plasma cartridges exploded inside crippling the entire facility.
The damage done would take the factory out of action for more than a year leaving the only source of plasma rifles residing in the Capellan Confederation. As for the Potty family Katja learned of her husband’s death while their DropShip was heading towards the jump point but she chose to keep this a secret from her children instead allowing the to focus on the journey and on Dakota’s upcoming treatment. Two months later after the successful surgery which would change their daughter’s life Katja Potty informed her children of their father’s passing in what was now being investigated as deliberate sabotage on Trylon which had crippled Ullmark Plasma Productions, the children were informed that their father had saved four hundred other workers.
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The Solaris Games, Game World Extreme
Solaris VII, Independent/Clan World
4th July 3119
Despite being on the Clan Wolf border and having a combined Clan Wolf/Star League Defence Force and Ebon Guard garrison the world of Solaris VII had never been busier or more profitable for both the competitors and the gamblers. While there were nearly regular scuffles between the clan born and inner sphere born populations and even restricted fights between the Clan Wolf defenders and the Star League forces generally speaking the main conflict on Solaris VII was contained to the arenas and race courses. According to Clan Wolf’s Watch and traders it was a symbol of what the entire Inner Sphere could be under an ilClan, with them at its head, a merger of Clan and Inner Sphere life into a perfect meld, from the Inner Sphere leadership it concerned them that Clan Wolf and the Ebon Guard were so willing to allow Solaris to continue as it was. The competitions on Solaris VII are sponsored by Dreadnought Interstellar Industries from Acala III in the Federated Suns and Defiance of Hesperus II in the Lyran Commonwealth.
3119 had been advertised as Game World Extreme on holo-advertisements across the Inner Sphere due to the multiple competitions which were taking place at once. At the start of the month the games begin with the Solaris Racing League (SRL) beginning this year the even includes four separate events at all five of the tracks with races spread from July through to November. During the course of each “Race Week” there would be an Individual Time-Trial, a Multi-Racer event, a single aircraft Obstacle Course and a Bombing Competition. With scores taken from each, from the first race week previous season champion Jonnie Mjalby from Aubisson in the Rasalhague Dominion scores the most points. On the 21st of the month the regular Solaris VII Games Season kicking off in the Inner Sphere-wide famous Coliseum, games would continue from July through to March 3120 before the three-week spectacle of the Grand Champions. Finally, just a week into the regular season the 46th Star League Games, with some of the normal competitors and many seasoned warriors from across the Inner Sphere and Clans, takes place in the Star League Stadium with Michael Noonan an independent warrior from Terra winning the Star League title he pilots a Dreadnought Interstellar Industries assault BattleMech Sumaire (DII-SMR-D1) adding to the publicity for the company.
There is a suggestion from some quarters of Solaris VII that they should copy the Naval Competitions from the Star League Defence Forces’ Martial Olympiad on Defiance however aerospace fighter competitions have never drawn large crowds on Solaris so the competition supporters are wary about such a large investment.
AFFS Command Bunker, Appleton
Sherwood, Minette PDZ
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th July 3119
For eight months Earl Jonas Tyler had been attending rallies with the people of Sherwood and working with the Nova Cat Watch forces based on the planets. The clansmen had been true to what they had promised and they had avoided turning the public disorder into an open fight while they had conducted operations against the AFFS troops causing damage to some infrastructure and AFFS supply bases the Nova Cats had avoided taking the fights into the towns.
Eventually the public issues with the AFFS had come to a head and a public vote had been held despite objections from the AFFS Command. With 82% of the vote in and 75% of the populations voting Earl Jonas Tyler was returned to the position of leader of the world removing the AFFS appointed official. While the Davion family and the AFFS ruled the Federated Suns it was not a dictatorship like many saw it, many worlds Sherwood included allowed the people to choose their leadership. Today the Tyler family had returned to a leadership position on the world with the population supporting his ticket which included inviting Clan Nova Cat to return to the world… now it was his duty to break them to the AFFS leadership.
Escorted through the command bunker Earl Jonas Tyler was led into the command bunker “General Harris, thank you for seeing me” he said approaching the general who wore a green duty uniform of the AFFS he had grey hair which was receding at the sides but it remained longer on top. He was easily in his early seventies but still strode a commanding figure.
“Congratulations on your election victory Earl Tyler, I’m coordinating my two infantry regiments with my armour and BattleMech regiment. We are going to corner and crush the insurgency and start your term with a bright beginning.” He said leaning forwards over a planning table which he invited Jonas to join him at, Jonas felt like a traitor, in truth he was one, and soon they would all know it standing at the table but he loved Sherwood. He had promised his father he would do the best by Sherwood and at present the Federated Suns did not have his world’s best interests in mind.
“Thank you General but I’d rather you didn’t.” He began the General stood his full height dwarfing Jonas but he pressed on. “In fact, I’d like you to recall all of your forces and stand them down until you are able to remove them from Sherwood.”
“Excuse me?” He asked there was a hard edge to his voice “what is that supposed to mean?” From behind Jonas, he heard a soldier drawing their weapon. Jonas placed a portable tri-vid camera on the table anyone could see it was smaller and more advanced than generally available to the people of the Inner Sphere, a design from the Star League-era. “What is the meaning of this Earl Tyler?”
“This is a remote tri-vid camera we are now being broadcast across Sherwood” he said he knew that announcement meant that the AFFS Techs would be working to block the signal so he had to speak quick. “I was elected on a promise to remove the AFFS from Sherwood’s soil and to send a message to Clan Nova Cat to bring them back to this system. While the Federated Suns have done many things for this world over the years the recent actions taking away industries which our people rely on are causing untold hardship on our people and despite being invaders Clan Nova Cat built on what made Sherwood a great world and enhanced our worlds position.” He felt a soldier coming up beside him and he knew he had to be quick “by vote of the people General Harris I have been asked to deliver this message and to inform you that a message has been sent to Clan Nova Cat requestion military assistance with our future garrison and…” he paused for a moment feeling his arms being grabbed “and if necessary, your removal by peaceful action or OTHERWISE!” He shouted as the troops dragged him out of the command bunker. General Harris for his part swung a heavy baton down on the holo-vid camera smashing it.
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Two weeks later a Nova Cat WarShip and three JumpShips arrived in the system disgorging three Clusters worth of ground forces all of which began burning towards the planet. When they are close enough General Harris receives a communication and Earl Jonas Tyler was dragged from his cell to witness it. “This is Galaxy Command Jacob Nostra of Clan Nova Cat declaring a batchall for control over the Sherwood system. We have received a message stating Clan Nova Cat is welcome in this system. If you are willing to accept Hegira, we have brought enough DropShips to evacuate your entire unit from its soil to a safe port. If you oppose us, we will destroy you entirely.”
“You traitorous bastard” Harris said looking at Tyler “I should execute you right here right now” he said during his two weeks of solitary confinement Jonas had been interrogated on multiple occasions, he had been beaten by the guards but he had refused to talk. Outside he knew that the people had protested his incarceration but so far there had not been any violence.
“You could do that general, I could not stop you, you could execute me and still take the Nova Cat’s offer I do not factor in what will follow.”
“You fought these freaks!” Harris said angrily drawing his sidearm pointing it at him “how can you now turn your homeworld over to them?” So far, the AFFS authorities had been unable to track down how Tyler had reached out to the Nova Cats only that the planetary HPG had not been used.
“They have our best interests in mind, I was wrong, you are strip mining this world taking everything we need because it is too close to the Clan border to defend.” He said struggling against the troopers holding him. “We need some of the resources that you are taking from this world.”
“The Clans will do the same!” Harris screamed angrily his gun still aimed at Jonas
“They built recharge stations; a moon mining facility and they expanded Sherwood Jabberworky’s into a fully BattleMech factory ALL of which were manned by people who were from Sherwood. You’ve shut down the moonbase and the factory is gone.”
“Without the factory you don’t need the resources it was mining and there are dangers of mining in space…”
“We needed those jobs!” Jonas shouted back angrily “they made this world better; you are taking everything away from it.” He couldn’t believe he was arguing FOR Clan Nova Cat but over the last few months Jonas Tyler had realised just how much difference Clan Nova Cat had made to the world.
“We couldn’t defend it” Harris said lowering the gun “we are within a jump of two of their systems.”
“Well now you’ll have to and the people won’t support you.” He said Harris arm suddenly came back up and a single shot range out as the slugthrower trigger was pulled and within moments Earl Jonas Tyler’s lifeless body fell to the ground blood streaming from his headwound.
“Shit” Harris exclaimed looking down at the body he had acted on an impulse. “Prepare for evacuation” he said to his staff looking around he knew that his people couldn’t resist three clusters of Clan forces intent on taking the world let alone the WarShip his first duty was to his men and to the Federated Suns.
Five minutes after the order General Ronald Harris communicated with Galaxy Commander Jacob Nostra and accepted the offer of Hegira securing safe passage for his people from the world, with Earl Jonas Tyler's sacrifice a footnote in history. The people remembered him as a visionary who realised his personal mistakes and honoured his sacrifice for their future. From the Nova Cats perspective, they were annoyed that the Federated Suns had removed the Jabberworky factory along with its Ocelot, Pack Hunter, and Jenner IIC manufacturing lines but they resolved to do what they had intended. On the Jabberworky factory site they constructed a new factory and they reopened the moon-based mining facility bringing jobs back to the people they also created job opportunities for the people beyond Sherwood within the Nova Cats Den adopting them as citizens of the Clan instead of treating them as an occupied world. Additionally, unlike other recently occupied worlds the citizens of Sherwood, with their status as members of Clan Nova Cat, were invited to join the Touman as freeborn warriors a challenge several young people took up.
Parliament Elections
Free Worlds League
15th July 3119
Between the Fifteenth and Thirty-first of July elections take place across the Free Worlds League as leaders of the individual states and of the Free Worlds League as a nation are decided by the people. While these elections are open to all candidates there is no question of who will remain the leader of the District of Marik with Captain-General Joseph Marik easily remaining in control the same result occurs in the Districts of Oriente, Regulus, Gibraltar, Bowang, Lothario and McKenna with every current leader remaining in their position with landslide victories. The only change that occurs is in the District of Lesnovo with Khan Petra Furey of Clan Smoke Jaguar “missing” she is in no position to stand for votes leading Duchess Anastasia Legend the seventy-nine-year-old leader of the Bismark system to ascend to the position of District-General. By the end of the month Prince Lester Cameron-Jones the leader of the District of Regulus is elected to the position of Captain-General of the entire Free Worlds League promising the people that the aggressors at their borders will be pushed back.
While Khan Petra Furey is not with her Clan within the District of Lesnovo her people are going from strength to strength. Within their home District the Clan control all military forces while they are also welcomed across the Free Worlds League as warriors willing to fight for the Succession State taking on enemies on all borders. In the District of Lesnovo itself the Clan introduces a new mixed-tech Battle Armour Suit, the King Cheetah, which is built on the world of Romita. While a new Aerospace Sibko training facility has also been built in the Trinity Moons system as their people continue to go from strength to strength.
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Emergence Wave SLS Markov (Indefatigable-class Battleship)
Canopus, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
4th August 3119
The SLS Markov jumped into the Canopus system at the head of a group of three WarShips but they were not leading an invasion force instead the ships were an escort for Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion and his wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion. For the first time in nearly six decades Danai was returning to her homeworld as they stood onboard the massive WarShip deep within one of the command rooms DropShips were deploying from along the vessel’s hull and from the hull of its attending two WarShips. The fleet then began a slow 1G burn towards Canopus for the official state visit. Watching as the fleet deployed via a massive holo-tank which dominated the centre of the room Victor watched his wife who was silently watching the traffic in the Canopus system he was unsure what to say before spotting something on the Indefatigable sensors. Manipulating the controls of the holo-tank Victor could not help but smile “By the Unfinished Book” he exclaimed zooming in on one of the contacts.
“What is it?” She asked rarely hearing him quote scripture, he had inherited the belief from his father but did not follow it closely.
“That DropShip” he said smiling as the image zoomed in displaying the wireframe of what appeared to be a Conquistador-class DropShip. “That DropShip is perhaps the one single Conquistador-class DropShip in the entire Inner Sphere which is owned by a civilian it is called the ConquistaVisho.” He explained trying to distract her seeing her interest wane when she realised what the topic was on “there’s a few owned by mercenary companies but that one, that one is owned by a single man and it is kitted out like a flying party bus.” He said beaming looking at the ship “she is a one of a kind, me and Galen spoke once about jumping on an MIIO flight and coming to the Magistracy to see her.”
“You’re kidding me?” She said, she had been with Victor since the Clan invasion before the class of DropShip had been constructed but she had not heard this story from either her husband or they recently departed friend.
“No, she was supposed to join the Starliner One but after that disappeared the only way would have been to come to the Magistracy, we were going to take a leave of absence to see it.”
“And what about me and Cynthia?” She asked realizing she would have been left on New Avalon with their children as would Galen’s wife.
“That was one reason we didn’t come all this way, that and MIIO would have had a heart attack if we came to a Capellan allied state without an entire battle-group at our backs.” He said his smile reduced to a smile as the sobering thought came to him and he realised that even today he only came here with three WarShips and the entire First Knights of the Inner Sphere Regimental Brigade at his back.
“Trust me if I’d found out about your little joyride to see a “partybus” DropShip the Capellans would have been the last thing either of you would have had to worry about.” She said playfully punching him in the arm.
“Owww” he muttered rubbing the arm “we were coming for the DropShip dear.”
“Of course, you were Prince Davion” she said using an old nickname for him leaning into him “thank you.” She whispered as he wrapped his left-arm around her.
“Always, I love you.” He replied holding her as the DropShips arrayed themselves in a protective screen around the three WarShips, they had been invited here by the Canopian leadership for a month long stay but it did not hurt to be prepared.
During the couples planned month of vacation/diplomacy Victor and Danai would visit several of the sights across Canopus, attend diplomatic functions at the Star League Embassy, at the Canopian Family’s Residence and to the shipyard in orbit which would include a tour of the under-construction MCS Magestix an Athena II-class Cruiser.
A blackmark during the trip was several protests against Danai’s presence with some calling her out as a “traitor” as well as several other expletives regarding her and her Davion Prince. For the most part however, the people are welcoming and warm to her return to the Canopus drawing massive crowds from across the Magistracy of Canopus with few incidents. At every event the Knights of the Inner Sphere are out in force and dressed in their ceremonial SLDF Uniforms behind the scenes three battalions of Knights are kitted out in combat dress prepared to evacuate the Exarch and his wife at a moment’s notice while just outside planetary orbit the SLDF WarShips are ready to assist with entire wings of aerospace fighters and assault DropShips deployed and on standby. While the Magistracy of Canopus government officials watch and attend many of the events the nation’s military is very hands off with the whole process giving the SLDF great latitude in their operations even though they are on the Magistracy capital. The obvious reason for this hands-off attitude is that the SLDF is not here as an occupational force and they do not have the necessary forces to hold the world or supply their units on the ground should it become an open conflict.
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The second and less obvious reason for the Magistracy’s approach to their SLDF visitors is the nation’s military forces are prepared for another operation, one that causes far deeper issues for the reborn Star League than a military operation involving their own forces. The Davion’s trip is cut short on the 21st August when six Canopian WarShips supporting ground force regiments force their way into the Oriente system landing en masse occupying the Halas Family Residence in a surprise military operation.
Over the course of a week the entire Oriente system becomes a battleground with WarShip wrecks littering the system as running battles claim four Oriente-aligned WarShips and three of the invading Magistracy of Canopus vessels. On Oriente the Elite Ducal Guard and two small mercenary units are destroyed to the man while the Sixth Oriente Fusiliers attempt to hold onto their homeworld against several invading regiments.
In what appears to be a coordinated attack the Capellan Confederation occupy Fletcher, Fujidera and Anegasaki cutting off reinforcements who could have retreated to Oriente essentially sealing the fate of the defence of the world with the system of Oriente officially surrendering to the Magistracy of Canopus on the 30th August. Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion, his wife and their escorts leave the Magistracy of Canopus after a formal protest to the actions of the Canopian troops, just as they jump out of the system it is announced that Javier Halas, the leader of the District of Oriente, was killed leading the Ducal Guard’s defence.
Running Battle, Great Southern Farmlands
Broken Wheel, Minette PDZ
Crucis March, Federated Suns
11th August 3119
During their spell detached from the Order of Sortek the lance of BattleMechs commanded by Leftenant Laure Bieganski had been charged with spreading the teachings of the Order of Sortek and helping in the defence of the Federated Suns from outside threats. While on the world of Broken Wheel the Order had successfully held several meetings with people and worked with the local Broken Wheel Training Battalion teaching them some of the drills which made the Order of Sortek such a successful combat unit. Laure’s people had passed on that training, practice and working as a team were key to success now however, she found herself alone and separated from the remaining two BattleMechs of her lance and she was being hunted by a BattleMech belonging to Clan Nova Cat.
In the early hours of the morning a raiding party had arrived with long range autocannon, missile and laser weapon attacks lighting up the night’s sky. During several hours of fighting which had followed one of her pilots Jean-Claude Galley had been shot out of his Cuirass BattleMech, he had been found a short while ago still in his ejection seat killed on impact following a failed parachute.
Now Laure ran her Enforcer III hunting an injured Clan Nova Cat Piranha BattleMech the Mech weighed in half as much as her medium class machine but carried a fearsome amount of firepower twelve machine guns backed up by three lasers. The pilot had wiped out two platoons of the Training Battalion’s infantry and destroyed two vehicles before retreating as Laure’s BattleMech approached. Angered by the cowardly attack on the support forces Laure had pursued the Piranha into the darkness causing damage with a long-range laser shot as the light Mech retreated.
The two BattleMechs were running passive sensors attempting to catch each other out in the corn fields which they now walked through. The genetically modified corn stalks easily stood around eight metres high concealing the Mechs from each other visually until they were directly on top of each other. It was down to wits and chance who the victor would be, despite her Mech’s superior size over the Clan BattleMech due to the tech advantage Clan technology held.
Suddenly, the left-hand side of her BattleMech’s armour registered damage and she heard the ferocious roar of machine gun fire tearing into the Enforcer III’s armoured hide, knowing the potential of the Mech she faced Laure decided not to take the chance of trying to resist the damage she cursed and launched the fifty-ton BattleMech into the air on its jump jets escaping the attack just as two opal-coloured heavy lasers and more machine gun fire tore through the place her BattleMech had been in. Laure controlled the short jump her Enforcer had made coming to land inside the corn field and turned again to hunt her pray, round one to the Clan MechWarrior.
The Enforcer III had taken light damage from the ambush fortunately nothing critical had been crippled but she had surrendered the initiative against the enemy Mech. Standing in the cornfield Laure decided to leverage one advantage she did hold turning her Mech back towards her former location she pointed the BattleMech’s ultra-autocannon left arm and triggered a burst of fire through the cornfield firing blindly, she had ammunition to spare and one lucky hit would cripple the Piranha. The weapons fire was a distraction though she saw that the Enforcer III’s jump jets had recharged she toggled the controls of the Mech’s jets firing them at less than a fifth of their maximum potential making the fifty-ton BattleMech hop into the air on a cushion of fire over the dry cornfield.
At full power the jump jets would incinerate the crops but at this power they had a different effect starting a fire which would likely consume the entire field of corn and drive the Piranha in the direction she wanted it to go. The Enforcer III’s double heat sinks would help resist the increased heat caused by the fire while she knew the enemy Mech only used single heat sinks which would put it at a disadvantage. Setting fire to crops to win a battle was not the honourable thing to do but the greatest honour was to win, should she be asked about how the fire started she would inform anyone who asked that it was an accident they were the only two warriors out here and only she would be walking out of the battle.
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For thirty minutes the fire continued to build and the two BattleMechs continued to duel Laure had been able to catch the lighter Mech unaware with its large laser and she had burned through the connections which held the Clan Mech’s left arm reducing it to a useless piece of slag metal. The Piranha had returned fire with its single remaining laser causing armour damage but Laure had kept her Enforcer III out of the range of the Piranha’s machine gun salvo which the Clan warrior had fired in frustration filling the air around the Enforcer III as she faded into the flames.
The final moments of the battle had come as a surprise to both warriors fighting exhaustion and heat build up the Piranha pilot stumbled upon Laure’s Enforcer III hitting it with its remaining lasers and machine guns devastating the fifty-ton BattleMech’s armour and damaging the large laser and destroying the Mech’s medium laser at near point-blank range. The Enforcer had weathered the assault though and replied with an equally devastating blow with autocannon fire at point blank range which had gutted the Piranha’s torso shattering links between the fusion engine and the Mech’s other systems. Without power the Piranha had fallen to the ground and was consumed with fire. Unable to escape the flames from their prone BattleMech the Nova Cat warrior was consumed by the fire.
With her Enforcer’s battle records “unfortunately corrupted” by damage caused during the battle Laure was cleared of wrongdoing and the fire, which burned for three days after the battle, was put down to being started incidentally during the fighting. The fire had destroyed the cornfield she had fought in and burned through had burned through several acres in every direction but she had been victorious and that was all that mattered for a member of Warrior House Sortek. Despite its “friendly-trappings” of the Order of Sortek Larie Bieganski had been born into the unit and raised with the full knowledge and upbringing which had been instilled in the unit when it was part of the Confederated Suns and was a fanatical believer in the ends justified the means when it came to victory.
Following the battle Laure learned that another of her warriors Ted Souffrant had been killed in the cockpit of his Caesar which had also been destroyed during the battle reducing her lance to two battered BattleMechs and one wrecked Cuirass with no pilot. To rebuild her unit and continue her mission Laure chose to promote a trainee Charlie Johnston to the position of pilot of the Cuirass while also recruiting a Watchman BattleMech independent MechWarrior Lena Hurst to the command, Hurst would be trained in the way of the Order while serving as a MechWarrior which was a break from protocol but required for the current situation. Additionally, the lance brought in two members of the local training battalion as trainees who would be inducted into the order and trained as future pilots.
Marketing Campaign, Sanrio Galactic Incorporated
Oshika, Midway Prefecture
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
18th August 3119
In the heart of the Draconis Combine the most unlikely marketing campaign gathers an immediate following. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Director Yasuhiro Auki and I stand before you as a man humbled by the support that the people of Oshika have shown my company Sanrio Galactic.” A short Japanese-descent man said standing on a stage beside a table which had a grey cover concealing what was on top of it. “We started with a goal of funding a collectible which would be admired and be desirable to the masses. With every entry there was a promise that while every supporter would receive their own collectible for supporting this project everyone would also be entered into a prize draw for an all-expenses trip to our production facilities here on Oshika along with a week-long vacation on this beautiful world.” He said clicking a small button which activated a screen behind him “I present you with our initial product Urbie the UrbanMech” he announced on the screen a yellow, green, and grey “cuddly” UrbanMech was shown with rounder and wider limbs and body than the real Mech but with the same proportions as the UrbanMech with two short legs an autocannon arm on the right and a laser arm on the other side all of which were rounder and more exaggerated than the standard BattleMech.
“Our campaign has not ended there however while we have begun shipping these collectibles across the Draconis Combine, our campaign has reached stretch goals that we never expected to reach” Auki admitted “this has led us to release new products” he said pulling away the cover from the table and picking up the first of their new plushies “allow me to humbly present you with Uhu the Peregrine.” He said holding the grey, blue, and orange coloured Peregrine unlike the UrbanMech the Peregrine BattleMech’s armour was normally more rounded now the two-legged Clan designed BattleMech was recreated in plushie form. “Uru like Urbie will be available for general sale on Oshika by the end of the month with orders beyond Oshika being fulfilled in due time.” He said holding the BattleMech out showing off the cushion.
“All backers of the second stage of our campaign will receive their own version of Uru as part of their backing” he said placing down the second plushie. “We would have been honoured beyond what anyone can imaging if only Urbie had been funded, but for Uru to also be funded led to further questions.” He said looking at the tri-vid camera “what else could catch your imagination. Allow me to present the first products beyond our Kickstarter which will go on general said exclusively on Oshika by the end of this month.” He announced picking his next two products “first is Cutiecat” he said picking up a red, brown, white, and yellow coloured plushie version of the Mad Cat (Timber Wolf) OmniMech. The iconic image of the Clan invasion and a Mech design known in every corner of human space. “And the second is Drago the Great Lizard” he said holding up a larger beast of an animal plushie which appeared to be covered in thick scales and armour, its “sharp” teeth and wicked appearing tail were completely harmless but would provide the other plushies with an opponent worthy of them.
“All of these plushies will be available in retailers across Oshika by the end of the month and they will be sold exclusively in this system.” With this announcement the craze for collecting the four initial plushies spread like wildfire across Oshika and quickly to the entire Draconis Combine with orders from across the state coming into the company as the craze brought the company to greater and greater heights.
Mechbay, Wolf Site Alpha 4
Helm, Wolf Empire
22nd August 3119
The Mechbay was the same as those across human occupied space with BattleMechs of various sizes in various states of operation, some ready for deployment others undergoing maintenance or repairs. In front of one of the BattleMechs stood a MechWarrior with bright red hair tied back in a ponytail she wore a simple black tank top and shorts as she looked up at the Ryoken II BattleMech which was once again hers.
“MechWarrior Kerensky your BattleMech is ready for deployment” the tech said off to her side she turned towards him and nodded. “With respect should someone of your heritage not be piloting something befitting your position, quiaff?” The tech asked looking at the Ryoken II the seventy-five-ton BattleMech was an impressive design but she was a Bloodnamed MechWarrior of Clan Wolf holding the name of the Great Father and of the Founder of the Clans.
“Aff, I am out of favour with the current Khan” Anastasia Kerensky replied her path to the true Clan Wolf had been a difficult one. Born from the Iron Wombs on Arc Royal to the then Warden Mountain Wolves she had followed her heart and headed out soon after winning her Bloodname with the same BattleMech that stood in front of her now and she had fought for several years as an independent warrior. “It will do for now, I am heading to the ranges” she announced after serving as a Bondsman for a year it was time she began her rise once more within Clan Wolf, this time the true Clan Wolf.
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As Anastasia Kerensky’s modified Ryoken II walked out of the Mechbay on the infantry ranges beside conventional infantry troops were facing their first Trials of Position. While conventional infantry troops, like conventional vehicles, had always been part of a Clan’s Touman. These were more often deployed as part of paramilitary and police forces which controlled the civilian populations and were rarely deployed as combat assets by the Clans in the defence of their territory. Since moving to their Empire territories Clan Wolf had seen the need for troops in numbers capable of garrisoning and defending these systems were far outstretching the numbers of troops traditionally fielded by the Clans. Several of the Clans had begun to field conventional troops as part of formations throughout their Toumans and were challenging their conventional forces to be better than they had ever been.
To fill these new roles of Clan Wolf the Clan’s leadership had opened training to every member of the Wolf Empire whether they were Trueborn or Freeborn, Wolf-borne or a native of the occupied worlds. Every new trooper would be trained for a year before their Trial of Position and to join Clan Wolf they would have to face three trials the first was a fitness test a run for two kilometres in full gear followed by an obstacle course. While there was not a finish time limit the faster one finished the higher the prestige. The second test was a marksmanship test with candidates having to hit a target with a ballistic, laser and gyrojet weapon, all three weapons had to be completed before the final test. In the final test potential warriors had to defeat a serving member of the Clan Wolf Touman in hand-to-hand combat. Due to these three gruelling tests the dropout rate was high but Clan Wolf were also gaining some of the best conventional troops of all the Clans due to these requirements.
I am 99% certain that Urbie the UrbanMech and Uru the Peregrine originated from something that someone sent me (outside the BattleTech Kickstarter which was also an influence) but I cannot for the life of my find who sent me the piece they were originally in :cry: so I'm going to say thanks to the contributor who suggested them, it was a while ago but I rarely ignore anything that's ever sent me it just takes a while for them to appear sometimes.
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The “Feast of Oriente”
Former District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
1st September 3119
The so called “Feast of Oriente” begins with the fall of Oriente to the Magistracy of Canopus. Instead of the rest of the Free Worlds League standing up for the small District they turn on the former worlds of the District glad to be gone with the bickering Halas twin brothers. Instead, the Districts of Regulus and McKenna move on the former worlds while the Capellan Confederation and Magistracy of Canopus move on other worlds.
The worlds of Hassad and Varna are rolled into by the District of McKenna with Duchess Saadia Cheynov personally leading the Seventh Regulan Hussars Regiment to the world of Hassad. Initially there is a standoff between the Santorini Battle Group and the District of McKenna’s forces but eventually an assault DropShip is allowed through carrying the Duchess to the planet. There she meets with the leaders of the Second Ducal Guard and Second Militia promising them that the District of McKenna will recover the lost worlds of Oriente from the respective powers that had seized them. As a result of Cheynov’s promises both Hassad and the system of Varna surrender without a single shot fired with the defenders remaining loyal to the Free Worlds League. Within hours the Santorini Battle Group agree to the terms set by the District of McKenna joining forces to resist the Capellans and Regulans.
The worlds of Carbonis and Las Halles fall far more violently with the Elite and Veteran defenders being dug in and ready to resist the Capellan Confederation forces invading but unfortunately, they are hopelessly outgunned with the Capellans dominating the space over the two worlds with several WarShips providing dominance in the sky and in space. With the dug in defences costing the attackers heavy casualties over the course of two weeks Capellan commanders lose their tempers resort to extreme measures calling in orbital bombardment on the District of Oriente troops positions. Overwhelming firepower is brought down on the remaining defences wiping them out in devastating one sided engagements, with the ground troops unable to defend or return fire. The attacks caused massive damage to both Carbonis and Las Halles support infrastructure and tens of thousands of civilian casualties in collateral damage over the two worlds. The damage done to the two worlds would eventually cause humanitarian and ecological problems with both and their Capellan Confederation’s actions would send ripples through the Inner Sphere as a spectre from the First and Second Succession Wars rears its ugly head.
At the same time as the Capellan Confederation assaults take place from the Magistracy of Canopus and District of Regulus on the worlds of Salur and Loaches from the Magistracy and the Matheran and Daneshamand from the District of Regulus. For all four systems mercenaries are the defenders and by the time any opposition forces arrive in the system word has come down that Oriente has fallen none of the mercenaries wish to fight to their deaths for a fallen nation. Instead, the commands negotiate out of their contracts or agree to defence contracts with the new landlords. During the negotiations word of Capellan Confederation’s actions on Carbonis and Las Halles makes its way through the HPG Network and no-one on either side has an appetite for more conflict.
Bloodname Grand Melee, Ways of Seeing Park
New Barcella, Core Territory
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
9th September 3119
In the heart of the Nova Cat’s Den warriors eligible for a Bloodname contest but unable to gather individual support by the Clan’s various bloodhouses enter the Clan’s Grand Melee. Each warrior’s one desire is to win as the victor of the Melee will be eligible for a Bloodname for the reborn Bloodhouse of Attwater. The Nova Cats have breathed new life to this founding Bloodhouse by opening their vaults of DNA from previous Clan warriors, they also take samples of DNA from every contestant joining the Melee adding new life to the Bloodhouse.
From his recent victory on Fletcher’s Feast Star Colonel Lucian Nova Cat had travelled to New Barcella intent on competing in the Grand Melee. As he approached the barriered off area in the Ways of Seeing Park Lucian like all Nova Cats who were attending were dressed in the traditional leathers of the Nova Cat Clan. Lucian had opted for the more conservative soft leather jumpsuit while others wore far more elaborate costumes which they believed would assist them in winning the contest. As he made his way through the crowds of warriors, he approached the perimeter formed by Elemental warriors dressed all in white.
Lucian did not look at any of the warriors instead he handed over his Codex and waited admittance, he was an unblooded warrior of the Rosse Bloodhouse through his father and at twenty-eight years old he was a Ristar within the Clan commanding a successful Cluster. None of the Elementals moved to allow him admittance instead within moments another huge hulking figure arrived beside him Lucian immediately recognised him Klick Lenardon the Elemental who served as the Clan’s Oathmaster, the overseer of this entire contest.
“Walk this way” he boomed his deep but soft voice ordered guiding him away from the Grand Melee Lucian hung his head knowing already what was happening. They walked nearly a kilometre away from the Grand Melee site in silence before Lenardon stopped “you cannot join this contest.”
“Why? I am a warrior of this Clan; I have earned the right!” He almost shouted the contraction in his speech sneaking through with his anger.
“You are freeborn.” Lenardon said simply
“Grayson and Sonya were freeborn both were allowed to carry the Rosse name honouring our Khan. I am the Khan’s grandson; I am the son of a Nova Cat hero.”
“Your father and his sister carried the Rosse name to honour their father neither competed for the name in an open contest…”
“They EARNED that name; I want to earn a name!” He snapped angrily defending his father’s position holding the Rosse name until his death.
“Aff, he did, but his holding of that name and your freeborn status precludes your entry into this contest, you cannot be a holder of any name other than the Rosse name.” Lenardon explained “and even then, your father is dead, his sister is dead and the Khan’s position is not as strong as it once was…”
“So I am in limbo, quiaff?”
“Unfortunately,” he answered “I do however have orders for you from the Khan” he said seeing Lucian’s surprise “take it as a blessing, your Cluster is at the jump point.” He explained Lucian had left them on Fletcher’s Feast being reinforced with new equipment, obviously someone had leaked his travel arrangements which had resulted in the Cluster being ordered to follow him. “Good hunting Star Colonel” Lenardon said turning leaving Lucian to stand alone and work out his anger.
As Lucian stood there in the middle of nowhere a nova cat leapt from a tree where it had been hiding, in a flash the agile black cat struck quickly tearing a bird from the air pulling its prey to the ground not caring for the human nova cat warrior. Quickly the nova cat killed its prey, not playing with its target, before acknowledging Lucian's presence with a quiet warning snarl. “I hope my prey falls as easy” he muttered walking away from the nova cat which was enjoying its dinner.
Trial of Possession, SLDS Terence Gilliam (Pueblo-class Surveillance DropShip)
Jade Falcon Shipyards, Dark Nebula
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
25th September 3119
Hidden within the Dark Nebula the SLDS Terence Gilliam sat on low power watching the operations at the Jade Falcon’s shipyard in the deep periphery. The Gilliam was one of a new generation of spy ships based on a classic Star League-era design of which dozens had been recovered from within hangers on Terra. According to the SLDF ComStar had operated several of the DropShips but eventually turned to using their own designs following the disappearance of several of the expensive ships. Following Terra being taken over by the SLDF the Pueblo-class was one of the first that had been quietly re-added to the SLDF arsenal working for the Star League Intelligence Corps watching for threats. None of the crews knew where any other was based but it was widely believed that the SLDF watched all the Succession States and all of the Clans.
“Captain on deck” one of the crew called out as Lisa Loven entered the observation deck, when the ship was running silent like it currently was the most important room on the ship. Although named the Observation desk on the Pueblo this was not on the outside of the hull observing space but instead located deep within the ship near the sensor feeds and observation telescopes which for now were trained on the Clan shipyards.
“What do we have Michaels?” She asked, she was in her fifties her ginger hair tied back and her square glasses perched on her nose, she wore a plain red jumpsuit with multiple buttoned cargo pockets.
“New Falcon Mississippi-class just launched she’s a beast.” Michaels reported he was in his early forties with short dark hair, like the rest of the crew they did not wear uniforms instead he wore a uniform instead he wore a navy hoodie, grey work vest and pants.
“Aren’t they all” she said looking at the high-definition screens at the huge WarShip “who is that?” She asked looking at the screen seeing another WarShip which had arrived and it was surrounded by DropShips.
“Snow Raven ship, the Black Lancer a Patriot-class Heavy Cruiser.” Michaels responded “they arrived forty minutes ago; we’ve been trying to break their encryption but no such luck so far.”
“Seriously?” Loven asked a little annoyed her crew had not been able to break the encryption “since when can the Clan’s encrypt something we can’t break?” She asked rhetorically “get on it!” She snapped watching the screens.
---
For a day the Gilliam watched silently before a third vessel joined them in the area. The Gilliam like all spy ships remained unseen because it did not do anything flashy to allow itself it get noticed. The ship would sit beyond visual range of the shipyard often near a piece of planetary debris drifting as it observed the Jade Falcon shipyards.
The door chime to Loven’s quarters activated and she called out “enter” Michaels floated into her quarters.
“It’s a Trial of Possession for the Mississippi and its plans.” He said proudly floating in the entrance way like all quarters on the Pueblo Loven’s had a small entrance, a main room and food preparation area and a toilet, the ship was designed to be comfortable for its crew on long duration missions.
“Excellent, the fireworks of the Trial will give us an opportunity to boost away towards the rendezvous point.” Loven suggested rarely did the ship use its main drives but when there was a lot of activity it was a good opportunity to do so, they had planned to leave when the Mississippi began its post-launch trials but this was as good an opportunity as any.
“There will be a lot of fireworks around…”
“The Clans normally bid down…” Loven started but Michaels shook his head “oh…” she whispered “when does their trial begin?”
“One hour’s time.”
“I’ll see you on the bridge.”
An hour later Loven floated onto the ships small compact bridge joining the other three crewmen there. “Status report.”
“Surveillance Arrays stowed – ready for transit”
“Engines standing-by”
“Weapons online… just in case.” Michaels added
“All crew ready.” The crew reported as she strapped herself into her command chair none of them wanted to do unnecessary moving around during a burn.
“Has the trial started?” Loven asked Michaels looked over his screens.
“Affirmative, the two Patriots are squaring off along with their support craft.”
“Helm, thrusters take us away from the rock, main engine burn when we’re clear they won’t have a chance of catching us even if they pick us up.” She ordered the Gilliam slowly turned in space moving gently away from the space rock. Moments later the main engines activated sending them into a gentle one G burn which quickly accelerated to a three G burn as they burned deeper into the nebula.
“Two Avars incoming! They must have been on deep perimeter patrol!” Michaels called out the thirty-ton OmniFighters had better speed than the DropShip but would not have the range or the firepower. “Missiles away from targets, they are configured with LRMs!”
Through the darkness of space flights of long-range missiles flew in on the DropShip “AMS engaging” one of the crew called out. One of the upgrades the SLDF had mandated went on the Pueblo after the class was taken out of mothballs on Terra was the installation of two dozen anti-missile cannons as the missiles got close enough the AMS cannons fired automatically knocking more than half of the missiles out of the sky before they impacted the ship. The remaining dozen exploded across the rear of the DropShip.
“Cut main thrust, thrusters bring our nose on target, it’s a pair of lights Weaps split your fire half and half.” She ordered Michaels who nodded. The ship ceased its forward acceleration but had already built up enough momentum that without the friction of an atmosphere the ship continued along the same course as it did the ship rotated in space suddenly facing off to an angle as the two Jade Falcon fighters continued to close. To the naked eyes the two fighters would be impossibly far away but a DropShips targeting systems were designed to track enemy targets.
Form the nose and wings of the Pueblo the weapon ports which were rarely if ever used engaged as one. Space was filled with man-made lightning particle cannons and red laser fire as the six forward facing particle cannons lashed out nearly as one targeting one ship, while the ships six forward mounted large lasers targeted the other ship destroying both ships in twin balls of flame. “Sensors any more contacts?” Loven asked as the DropShip continued to move away from the two expanding balls of wreckage.
“Negative, scopes clear”
“Damage report” Loven ordered
“Minimal armour kept it out, we’re good.”
“Excellent, Helm turn us back onto course keep the engines silent we do not need to draw any undue attention. We will let the Clanners figure out where their two Avars went.” While the Star League DropShip made its escape the two Clans continued to engage each other eventually the two WarShips fought to a draw with the Snow Raven vessel accepting defeat. They had however done enough damage to win the plans for the Mississippi-class Battleship while not quite a new WarShip the Ravens has extensive facilities for building WarShips of their own.
A month later Clan trials for WarShips continues as Clan Sea Fox challenge Clan Hell’s Horses for control over one of the Hell’s Horses Forge-class Yardships. The Foxes are more successful than the Ravens and they win control over the Forge adding it to the Starstrike Khanate.
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Castle Nautilus
Artu, Aurigan Collective
Periphery
6th October 3119
On the deep periphery moon of Artu in the Aurigan Collective engineers dug through the permafrost and earth for nearly a full month before they had finally come across a pair of armoured doors which had a massive Cameron Star engraved into them. After recovering the DropShip Argo in deep space, they had spent time searching through the vessel’s archives which had pointed them to the moon world. To the Aurigan Collective Artu was a mining world with resources worth taking off but otherwise of little importance, a small population lived on four space stations which orbited Artu while the facilities on the moon were mostly automated with only a few thousand people making the surface their home. Artu was one of fourteen moons which orbited a blue coloured gas giant which dominated the frozen skies.
It would take the Aurigan’s the better part of a month to gain access to the vault under the ground. Inside they found a facility that went a dozen levels down and two entire brigades of armoured vehicles and BattleMechs all of Star League-era vintage and in pristine condition. With the Aurigans presently relying on mercenary forces for their defences the equipment found will go a long way to strengthening the case for the small nation which was nestled between three other powers to remain independent.
SRJS Grumdale (Monolith-class JumpShip)
Uninhabited System
Raven Alliance, Periphery
17th October 3119
In an uninhabited system located within the Raven Alliance located roughly three quarters between Bell and Antallos an elite Draconis Combine assault team had encountered a Snow Raven supply convoy of five JumpShips heading towards Antallos the Combine forces had deployed several DropShips to interdict the JumpShips. The DCMS DropShips were hovering near the JumpShips their weapons locked onto their targets one-by-one the DropShips would dock with their targeted JumpShips and board them.
Onboard the SRJS Grumdale Draconis Combine marines boarded the JumpShip through one of the clear DropShip docking collars due to the general tight confines of a standard JumpShip the Draconis Combine marines wore standard armoured space suits which were sealed in case of a hull breach. The twenty marines floated or walked with magclamps into the loading bay taking up defensive positions the bay was empty other than several cargo containers.
Almost as soon as the marines had got on board the figures appeared from the both corners of the room below and above their position. Larger than standard human bodies these figures stood about seven feet high the suits had triangular helmets, mostly rounded armour, and thrusters on the legs, back and on extended helmet level thrusters. The suited troopers were armed with hand-held Mauser IIC Assault Pulse Rifles and they immediately began engaging their targets, the Combine troopers attempted to resist but their low velocity, mostly non-armour penetrating weapons (deployed to protect the ships from an accidental hull breach) struggled to damage the suits with only a few troopers having effective weapons.
On all the JumpShips hidden doors opened and weapons arrays began engaging the nearby DropShips. While they could not target the DropShips which had docked with their own JumpShip they could target the DropShips docked with other vessels. Even as the JumpShips engaged the DropShips more Power Armoured troopers exited the JumpShips traversing the vessels hull using thrusters boarding the Draconis Combine DropShips entering through the holes punched in the hulls by the hidden DropShip weapons.
With the DropShips damaged and boarded and the JumpShip boarding parties contained the Draconis Combine JumpShips jumped clear of the system abandoning their boarding parties ordering them to fight on. Following communications that they had been abandoned reached the marines and DropShips several of the DropShips immediately surrendered. With their escape ships surrendered and boarded the marines had little option but to surrender to the Snow Ravens with close to one hundred DCMS personnel captured in total. Scans from the DCMS JumpShips showed that the Snow Ravens had removed one of the DropShip collars from each of the JumpShips to add additional weapons, targeting systems and heat sink systems combined with the new Power Armour design this would make the commercial JumpShips a more difficult target for raiders in the future.
Trial of Possession
Stewart, Wolf Empire
23rd October 3119
In a Trial of Possession between Clan Wolf and Clan Sea Fox the system of Stewart changes hands with Clan Sea Fox defeating Clan Wolf for Possession over the world. The Wolves put up a light defence with the Sea Foxes winning but allowing the Wolves to remove several assets from the world. The Sea Fox victory gives the Clan a trade world within Wolf space and another point on their network of trade worlds which were located throughout the Inner Sphere and Clan realms.
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Parlimentary Discussion
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
5th November 3119
“Deals like this have been done before” Ambassador Rebecca Sharangovic said as she addressed the gathered parliament “during the Clan Invasion the Free Worlds League provided weapons…”
“Nothing has been proposed like this before!” Senator Elias Hartman responded “Madam Ambassador, the Free Worlds League waited decades for payment yet the Federated Suns want upfront payment for this deal.”
“They want payment for the first batch due to construction already beginning on these assets. The Federated Suns will build these assets regardless of our decision; however, they are giving us the option to get ahead of the game and purchase these before they enter Federated Suns service.”
“We should just build our own” Dietrich Newall said as the representative of Ionus with its shipyards this was not a surprise.
“We do not have time, this parliament tasked me with finding a contractor willing to produce a vessel to be directly attached to the Marik Protectors Brigade because we do not have the resources or time to develop and produce a ship up to the task ourselves.” Sharangovic said swiping a loose strand of grey hair from her face “through the Star League, I have secured us this deal.” She said trying to appeal to the parliament’s senses, yes they would be supporting a rival succession state but this support would bring much needed military resources into the Free Worlds League.
“I believe the Parliament was expecting something from our long term or known allies.” Captain-General Lester Cameron-Jones suggested speaking up for the first time in a while, he had been against going externally the buy WarShips but the Parliament had out voted him, now he felt vindicated by his opposition as they would be directly funding the Davion military machine.
Lester Cameron-Jones had not intended on opening this door, but as he had Sharangovic decided to take advantage “assuming you mean our Kaptyn “allies” allow me to summarize. The Draconis Combine faces enemies from five separate sources while the Capellan Confederation was part of the attacking forces which conquered Oriente.” She reminded everyone, there was a quiet angry murmur which travelled around the Parliament Chamber and the Captain-General Cameron-Jones looked uncomfortable. She let him squirm for a moment then decided to bail out the younger noble “however if you meant the Star League Defence Force, they were our first point of contact. Unfortunately, the SLDF continues to build its own navy in an effort to hold the Wolves at bay. It was in fact the Star League Ambassador to Atreus Angelica Hawker who directed us to Federated-Boeing...”
“A FEDRAT COMPANY!” Someone in the Parliament cursed interrupting her.
“Yes, the company is based in the Federated Suns, but as an allied nation in the Star League and one that currently shares not a single border with us, they are not a threat to the Free Worlds League and they are willing to assist us!” She called back angry at the interruption.
“What about the Davion over the other border from us? They aren’t going anywhere.” Another called out Rebecca Sharangovic recognised the dark-skinned man with long dark hair tied back as Duke Lieke Modiba the leader of the world Kosciusko.
“Duke Modiba, the Lyran Archon has made a concentrated effort to distance herself from her father’s name. House Steiner faces a greater threat to its security than us that of the multiple Clans beating at their border.” She said attempting to allay his worries and not take the debate away from their deal with a Federated Suns company. “The government of the Federated Suns has agreed for us to approach Federated-Boeing and the company has agreed to supply us with fifteen Robinson Block II-class Transports. They are also willing to modify the design to our requirements should we have any beyond the main design, for example change the weapons to match those manufactured here in the Free Worlds League to make maintenance easier.” She explained the Robinson-class Transport was a support design used to assist in the rapid deployment of ground forces to a planet. The Free Worlds League wished to integrate them into the Marik Protectors Brigade much as the Federated Suns had with their Ceti Hussars Brigade giving the units their own built in WarShip support and a chance of air superiority with every deployment. “If we wish to modify the WarShip our decision must be made immediately or there will be delays in the deployment of the first three vessels. Should we decide to accept the design as it is then we will receive them within months allowing for operational trials and travel to the Free Worlds League.”
“Why can we not build a Thera-class vessel to match its capabilities? We have the technology and a hull design that is native to the Free Worlds League which would be more than capable of supporting our premier Brigades.” Ambassador Will Gorski representing Ionus suggested a murmur especially from within the District of Marik worlds went around the room.
“No” Captain-General Lester Cameron-Jones said as the murmur continued “we discussed this already. The Thera is a Carrier designed for combat in space, its weapons array and fighter deployment bays are deigned specially for that task.” He said using the words which had been used in a previous meeting of Parliament, he also did not want money and manpower being funnelled into a District which was not his own, “with the loss of Oriente and possibly more importantly Fletcher with its small shipyard facilities we have a gap in our production capabilities. Purchasing ships, it was agreed by this Parliament that this was the best way to fill this gap until we can build more facilities in more secure systems.” He said glossing over his own intentions by reminding them all of the loss of a shipyard along with Oriente, which he considered a failure of the entire Free Worlds League, unfortunately there was no way to defend Free Flight from the Capellans and Magistracy.
“Captain-General if I may?” District-General Anastasia Legend the leader of the District of Lesnovo asked formally even going as far to activate her light looking for attention unlike the other representatives and leaders who had spoken.
“Please” Cameron-Jones said surrendering the floor for her to speak.
“My military leadership has concerns regarding the loss of Fletcher, they had deals with Free Flight that they wish are honoured…”
“That is a discussion that your pets will have to take up with the Capellan Confederation, not something that this Parliament will engage in.” Cameron-Jones said cutting her off speaking of the Smoke Jaguars who resided within the District of Lesnovo, Anastasia Legend was not a member of the fragment of Clan Smoke Jaguar that survived on the Free Worlds League’s periphery but was angered by his a derogatory to refer to them.
“So, they can approach the discussion themselves should they desire?”
“And no doubt buy a bullet in the process” he replied in an answer not saying yes or no intentionally he would not authorise the Jaguars to go to Fletcher but he also would not try to stop them the Clan which had survived in the Free Worlds League had a strong following in the District of Lesnovo with many native Free Worlds Leaguers seeing them as the District’s way to power within the Free Worlds League. Even with the recent disappearance of the Smoke Jaguar’s Khan they were gaining power at a frightening speed, and with many with the Free Worlds League simply ignoring them as a fragment of a dead Clan.
“Thank you”
“Captain-General, I need an answer from this body, will we progress with the deal with the Federated Suns and accept the deal to purchase fifteen Robinson Block II-class Transports? And will they be modified to suit our needs?”
The questions were put to the Free Worlds League Parliament and it was agreed that the fifteen ships would be purchased from the Federated Suns with the first three to be delivered before July 3120. Initially the ships would be accepted as standard Robinson Block II-class Transports however the deal with Federated-Boeing accepted that should there need to changes to the design then there was room for modifications over the length of the production run.
Trade Deals
Taurus, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
14th November 3119
With the assistance of the Clan Watch and the Merchant Caste Star Captain Kev Rosse of Clan Nova Cat had spent nearly two weeks on Taurus before his presence had been reported to the authorities. For months the Nova Cats traders had been welcome within the spaceport’s international zone for trades making deals with the Taurians who were passing through, they had been restricted to deals within the Spaceports jurisdiction but it was a start. Kev Rosse had remained with the Nova Cat traders making no effort to cause any trouble for the Taurians and so instead of acting against the Nova Cat officer the Taurians had decided to intercept him and confirm what was going on.
During the negotiations Star Captain Kev Rosse had watched the Nova Cat and local negotiator speak from the corner of the small grey room located in a store room in the Taurus City Spaceport when a woman twenty years Kev’s senior entered, she was obviously a military officer and wore the brown and gold uniform, with a red tunic and white gloves of a Taurian officer of high rank. The two negotiators stopped briefly but she waved them on instead she walked around the small room leaning against the wall beside the Nova Cat warrior.
“Star Captain?” She asked watching the now two nervous negotiators.
“Aff, Kev Rosse” he responded quietly
“I am Marshal Carol Trenouth, Taurian Defence Force I am the commander of Corps I, it is nice to meet you, shall we take a walk?” She asked him. “We will allow the negotiators to continue their work.”
“Aff” he nodded agreeing with her, off world traders were allowed to walk around the spaceport’s grounds if they did not enter the buildings unescorted.
Outside the air on Taurus was a temperate but over populated world during the years the Taurians had built heavy industry on the world to support the Taurian Concordat this had led more and more people to move to the system looking for work which had led to more and more being built on the world.
“When we found out about you on this world your presence here was unexpected” she said as they walked “the last time Nova Cat military forces came to this system it was not in a friendly capacity.”
“Our Clan has not always treated your realm with honour” Rosse admitted “I am here to observe our traders’ dealings with your people and make sure that they are treating you with honour and respect.” He said explaining his presence “it will not make up for what we have experienced in the past but it is a small strep.”
“Your traders have caused no problems since being allowed to trade here, but your Clan is still seen as a threat to our nation.” She admitted he had been willing to admit issues in the past she would do the same. “Please Star Colonel, your role as a… “supervisor” for your traders appears to be for lack of a better term overkill.”
“I go where our Khan orders.” He said trying to sound convincing by his words, sending a Star Commander or a Star Captain would have made more sense instead of someone of his rank and position. There was no honour to be won watching traders make deals. “We are not a threat to you, our Clan has re-evaluated our future threats and are taking actions to counter them.” He said giving little away “we do not presently believe that the Taurian Concordat has any hostile intentions towards our Clan and as such are taking no actions against you.” Anyone could see that the Nova Cats shared a border with the Federated Suns who were a threat and to the Snow Ravens who often worked with the Nova Cats.
“We are still your neighbours, you are being very open with us considering we were last on the opposite side of you on the battlefield.” She replied pointing out “we do not want another war with your Clan, but you can understand our wariness when a Clan Nova Cat Colonel successfully sneaks onto our capital?” She asked he nodded in response “perhaps we can be trading partners should these deals continue but Clan Nova Cat will have to be more open with the Taurian people about what they are bringing to our world.”
“Aff” Rosse agreed “in an effort to show this openness” he said suddenly stopping bringing a radio up to his lips “release” he said simply. From the Outpost-class DropShip which the Nova Cats had used to come to Taurus one of the doors opened as they watched two brown and yellow camouflage SM1 Tank Destroyer hovercraft exited the DropShip and screamed towards them.
“What is this?” Carol demanded reaching for her emergency radio but she caught Kev’s eyes and stopped seeing the look he gave her. She looked at the Nova Cat DropShip and saw no more vehicles or Mechs had left the craft and she hesitated “explain this now” she demanded angry at the Clansmen’s actions she could imagine that the control tower was rushing to direct defenders towards the DropShip and hovercraft.
“These are for the Taurian people” he said as the two craft slowed beside them, nearby spaceport defences were rallying having detected the two unauthorised craft on the ground.
“A bribe?” Carol asked looking at the two fifty-ton hovertanks both carrying huge central autocannons and multiple machine guns. Behind them she saw two Marshal BattleMechs turning around one of the hanger buildings.
“Neg, we want you to do nothing for these vehicles, in fact you already have acted allowing us to come to this world.” He said as the Marshals continued to close on their position several missile carriers were also moving into position. “These are an acknowledgement from my Clan to your nation that we do not have to be enemies and they are payment for you allowing us access to your trade markets.” Kev Rosse explained “Clan Nova Cat wishes to show it knows who its true neighbours and enemies are.”
“Frak, you could have warned us!” She said angrily grabbing her radio “this is Marshal Trenouth security patrol to Condition Two maintain distance and monitoring, no hostile actions from Clan vehicles.” She ordered lowering the radio turning back to Kev Rosse “Two hovercrafts will not change the perception of the Taurian people or its leadership, nor will this stunt we do not take kindly to surprises.”
“They are not intended to make the peace instantly Marshal. We never expect to be your friends, you are of the periphery, you fought against our Star League ancestors and you would resist any attempt for a Clan that becomes ilClan to be your overseer, Quiaff?” He asked he was using some terms that Carol was unfamiliar with but she nodded hating the idea that someone would rule over her realm. “Exactly, Clan Nova Cat and the Taurian Concordat have differing priorities for the future and believe there will be different outcomes to the wars that are coming, perhaps we will be enemies again at some point but perhaps we also have the same enemies.” He said pausing for the moment “there is an old Clan saying ‘the enemy of my enemy is my friend’” he joked smiling knowing fine that the saying was older than spaceflight itself, it belonged to anyone and everyone “perhaps that will be true for our people and yours in the future.”
Elsewhere on the worlds of Tukayyid, Tamar and Lothan in the Clan Occupation Zone on the other side of the Inner Sphere Clan Nova Cat opened new trade opportunities offering all of the Clans an opportunity to trade for or trial for dozens of second line BattleMechs which the Nova Cats had produced and held in reserve. These Mechs are all of the same model a recently developed and tested Shadow Cat IV model which is a standard BattleMech based on the successful Shadow Cat III OmniMech. For the trade market the Nova Cats have produced four variants of the Shadow Cat IV which are based on configurations of the OmniMech predecessor with one key difference instead of the Ferro Fibrous armour seen on the Shadow Cat III the IV models have laser reflective armour which showcases the new type of armour recently perfected by Clan Nova Cat.
High Orbit, Spacestation Key
Lothario, District of Lothario
Free Worlds League
20th November 3119
With the Clans on the move from several directions in orbit over the world of Lothario the Free Worlds League brings online a new shipyard capable of building assault DropShips, this is added to the JumpShip facilities already by the present. With the District lacking their own WarShip production facilities the small shipyard owned by the Stroud family is seen as the literal “Key” to solving this issue. Unfortunately, full WarShip production is seen as being at least a decade away.
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Trials of Possession
Freedom, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
8th December 3119
Following successful Trials of Possession conducted by Clan Coyote against six Rasalhague Dominion systems and the successful seizure of Yed Posterlor, Baxter and New Wassen Clan Coyote surprise everyone with an early morning assault on the Isle of Skye system of Freedom which was defended by a combined Lyran Commonwealth, Star League Defence Force, and mercenary force. The Coyotes deploy their entire Coyote Prime Galaxy supported by an entire star of WarShips, a rare mass deployment for the Clan which usually deployed its WarShips in single deployments.
While the world of Freedom was on the border of Clan Wolf it was not seen as a priority target of the Clans as Clan Coyote and the Rasalhague Dominion which were two Warden Clans while the Jade Falcons and Hell’s Horses were more interested in charging deeper into the Isle towards Hesperus II and Skye itself.
At and near the main system jump points a pitched battle between defending and attacking WarShips breaks out as soon as the Coyotes attack. Four WarShips jump into the Nadir point ambushing the two SLDF WarShips based there, in a mass attack with fighters, DropShips and weapons from the WarShips themselves. In the attack an Essex-class Destroyer, the SLS Loch Lomund, and a Dante II-class Frigate, the SLS Hamburg are overwhelmed by the attacks with both ships destroyed. As the four WarShips move to secure the Zenith point the Coyotes Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser along with a dozen JumpShips enters the system carrying the ground forces. During their defence of the planet the Lyran and SLDF forces have destroyed the Spirit of the Sky, a Liberator-class Cruiser, crippled a second WarShip and heavily damaged two others while securing the main jump points.
The ground-based defenders have two-and-a-half days to prepare for the onslaught from Clan Coyote’s armada which has almost four dozen DropShips and the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser Cordoba. Duke Everett Gunther the leader of Freedom orders all Lyran aerospace assets to stop the invaders deploying two wings of aerospace fighters and six DropShips, the 208th Hussar Regimental Brigade’s commander General Amelia-Rose Knott advises against throwing everything at the incoming Clansmen but agrees to support the Lyran defenders sending two more aerospace fighter wings to join the Lyrans. Of the four mercenary commands on the planet only the Wolf’s Dragoons Alpha Regiment has enough aerospace fighters to be of any use in supporting the fight, the Dragoons who are under Lyran contract agree to support the defence of the planet. On the planet Duke Gunter calls for support from the Isle of Skye and the SLDF.
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If it were possible, it looked like you could step from one aerospace fighter to the next in the space near to Freedom. “Dragoons and SLDF forces you have the heaviest fighters, you will launch a strike and open up the wings, this will hopefully allow our DropShips to get to the WarShip and their DropShips and blunt this invasion before it begins.” Admiral Griedge Tylinski the Lyran commander ordered the aerospace fighters with them.
“Admiral, once again the Wolf’s Dragoons protest this in the strictest terms, we are under contract not cannon fodder.”
“You Dragoons should have thought about that when you didn’t deploy a WarShip to the front-lines!” Tylinski commented “the attack goes ahead as ordered, punch us a hole Major Koslov, punch us a hole and the assault DropShips, yours included, can make a difference in this fight.” The Lyran said, the Dragoon fighter pilots were angry at being up front with the SLDF troops while the house troops who were defending their own territory took up the rear with the DropShips. The fact was the strategy was sound the Lyran fighters were lighter and suited for close in dogfighting which would take place once the two forces had met, the SLDF and Dragoon fighters on the other hand were configured for strike missions intending on causing as much damage as they were able knocking down as many enemies down as possible.
Lieutenant Derek McClean was a pilot of the Wolf’s Dragoons and flew a Clan built Scytha Heavy Fighter, the ninety-five-ton aerospace fighter had been captured from Clan Smoke Jaguar during the Battle of Luthien and several pilots had flown the aircraft in the last fifty years. His aerospace fighter had been configured in the alternate B configuration with five large pulse lasers up front he bore down on one Coyote fighter burning it from stem to stern with green pulse laser fire destroying the craft. He then spun his craft to the port engaging another craft as it flew past, he could barely tell the models he was firing only that his targeting systems were identifying them as hostile. The furball had disrupted the lines of the Coyotes enough that the Lyran fighters and DropShips were now moving in, an egg-shaped Excalibur-class Pocket WarShip moved through the middle of the Lyran formation heading straight for the Potemkin accelerating beyond the Lyran fighters and DropShips. “What the hell are they doing!” He called out turning to join the charge which was most likely going to be a suicide charge. “Breaker One, what are they doing?”
“Unknown Four…” his flight leader began to reply before the Lyran channel broke over all frequencies as the Excalibur’s missile launchers fired. The Excalibur Pocket WarShip was configured with six capital missile launchers.
“All allied units: Vitas, I repeat VITAS!” Someone McClean guessed was on DropShip called out on his HUD the Scytha’s computed recognised the command as one agreed with the Lyrans before the battle began. VITAS was a code for a nuclear launch order.
“Oh my god…” McClean whispered his eyes transfixed on the missiles as they flew towards the Potemkin, the Troop Cruiser engaged the DropShip at the same time with multiple naval particle cannon shots. The capital man-made lighting shots lit up the space in between the two ships and the Excalibur was shredded in a second, no-one on board would have had a chance to evacuate. McClean was not watching the Excalibur though instead even as his Scytha was targeted by missiles itself he had his eyes on the six capital missiles burning towards the Potemkin. The two Kraken Telescopic Capital Missiles struck their target first causing heavy armour damage but they were not the missiles that would deliver the real blow, moments after the Kraken hits all four missiles following them slammed into the hull of the Potemkin.
Nuclear warheads while rarely used in ground combat and controlled by multiple weapon conventions in space there was no such restrictions. This was due to the weapons not having a huge blast radius or leaving radioactive residue for decades afterwards due to the lack of atmosphere, instead the multiple impacts channelled their destructive force through the remaining armour on Potemkin and into the ship. Nuclear weapons were known as WarShip killers and rightfully so the explosive blasts hit the atmosphere inside the ship and lit the entire 1.5 million tonne WarShip up from stem to stern. Along its entire 1.5 kilometres of length parts of the ship were being blown clear of his huge rounded hull as the explosions tried to escape the metal hull. “Oh my god…” McClean continued to repeat looking at the dying WarShip, he had not even known that the Lyrans had nuclear weapons.
“MCCLEAN! PILOT YOUR FRACKING FIGHTER!” Simone Montour shouted through his comms snapping him out of his shock he saw his fighter had taken several missile hits but its heavy armour had protected him he spun his aerospace fighter along its axis and boosted away from the dying Potemkin.
“Did you see that?” He called back heading back to the other fights the destruction of the WarShip had shocked both sides into a general retreat.
“We all saw it McClean” Koslov said speaking up for the others “we now have to hope they haven’t made a mistake; we took heavy losses in this fight; we have the forces on planet to hold them for months.” He said within hours Koslov was proven correct as the Canis Latrans, a massive Mississippi-class Battleship which had been damaged in the initial fight but was still fully operational, boosted from the jump point.
With the Coyotes offensive blunted temporarily the Lyran, SLDF and mercenary forces prepare for a surge from the Coyotes when the Canis Latrans arrives. During the two days burn in the forces on planet learn that there will be no reinforcements coming into the system as two Mississippi-class Battleships of Clan Jade Falcon had jumped into the Gladius system and were threatening to burn towards the Isle of Skye’s only shipyard tying up the two Mjolnir-class Battle-cruisers based there. The two Jade Falcon WarShips do not have ground forces with them but their presence in Gladius is clearly one to tie up Lyran forces and threaten the shipyards in aid of Clan Coyote. It was impossible to know if this had been a preplanned move by the Falcons but it clearly is intended to tie up the naval defences and weaken the response that could be made towards Freedom.
Back in the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone two Clusters worth of Hell’s Horses troops are transferred to Jade Falcon control both former Hell’s Horses units are picked up by JumpShip from the OZ and head straight to the Cameron system where they drop on top of the First Coventry Cuirassiers RCT. The two new Falcon clusters wishing to prove themselves throw their units straight into the well-prepared Coventry unit which has a three-regiment strong brigade of armour waiting for them. The Horde clusters were designed to cause trouble for these units moving quickly and in between armour units the Hell’s Horses despite having many vehicles themselves use inferno rounds and flamers to great effect causing heavy damage. While it may sound almost foolish the now former Hell’s Horses armour warriors know that their time as warriors might be short-lived as the Falcons do not respect armour crews like the Hell’s Horses.
While this does not appear linked to the ongoings in the Freedom system Lyran Intelligence Command (LIC) learn through Clan Sea Fox that the Hell’s Horses agreed to send troops to the Jade Falcon Clan in exchange for the plans to the Coyotes newest OmniMech the Sojourner, a mobile sixty-ton battle line design. The Sea Foxes are willing to broker the information with the Lyrans because the Coyotes had cut them out of the trade of the new OmniMech and had rebuffed their attempts to gain control of the design.
On the morning of the fourteenth the Canis Latrans approaches Freedom along with a protective screen of DropShips and fighters. The Lyrans and their allies rise to meet them once more but unlike the commander of the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser the commander of the Mississippi-class Battleship takes no chances and engages the DropShips and fighters with everything at its disposal at the longest ranges possible. The engagement is extremely one sided with the Inner Sphere forces unable to close on the Battleship and stop the ground forces at the same time.
With an entire galaxy streaming to the ground things go from bad to worse as the Coyotes broadcast to the planet below that the nuclear attack against the Morning Star required a ransom to be paid. They broadcast planet-wide that the main planetary spaceport and the Duke’s personal estate were forfeit along with everything on those grounds and that everyone at these places had eight hours to evacuate before they would be destroyed. One minute to the eight hours mark the Canis Latrans moved over the planetary spaceport and blasted it from space with its naval particle cannons, the huge battleship then moved over the Duke’s residence and flattened it from orbit. The explosions from the two strikes are seen for several kilometres in several direction, following the assault the battleship informs the planet below that it will not commit further attacks against the planet itself unless it is attacked.’ The year would end with Freedom being an embattled world with both sides attempting to reinforce their position with neither able to establish superiority.
System Defence Station One
Moon of Tybalt, Terra Firma
Liberty EDZ, Star League Protectorate
17th December 3119
It was impossible for the Titan shipyards to produce enough Casper WarShips for every system of the Star League Protectorate instead the Star League Protectorate defences was being pursued from a second angle. With worlds that had lesser threats towards them the Casper II system was being deployed it consisted of moon-based stations and space stations both of which could launch drone small craft which would provide support for planetary defences and a nasty surprise for enemy forces.
On the airless moon of Tybalt, the Star League Protectorate Defences had built a base capable of supporting two hundred personnel, a squadron of Dragau DropShips and eighteen Cockatrice Drone Small Craft while in orbit of the moon a Drake System Defence System (SDS) Control Station would extend the range that the drones could be deployed. Near Tybalt the SLS Wasp, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, which was controlling the station coming online while its support ships the SLS Balder Viking and the SLS Ethan Allen making the final touches to the Drake and delivering the drones that would be based there. The additions of the Drake, Dragau and the Cockatrice gave the Terra Firma Casper II fleet more teeth than previously Casper II fleets. To further reinforce the Terra Firma defences naval weapon emplacements on Tybalt were planned as were more Drake stations and additional fighters, small craft, and DropShips.
Trial of Possession
Ferris, Raven Alliance
Periphery
21st December 3119
From New Barcella the Fourteenth Nova Cat Vision Cluster had travelled through the periphery to the world of Ferris in the Raven Alliance where the Snow Ravens and the native company United Outworlders Corporation had constructed a factory capable of producing the fifty-five-ton Wusun OmniFighters. When they had arrived in the system the Nova Cats had requested and they were granted safcon which had allowed them to land on the world unmolested.
Once on the planet Star Colonel Lucian Nova Cat had met with Star Colonel Ryuzo Shu the Elemental commander of the Eighteenth Raven Battle Cluster. Lucian had declared his intention to seize a production run of Wusun OmniFighters from the planet’s factory which Ryuzo had initially refused…
“That was until you, stupid idiot agreed to their Ransom” Lucian cursed himself running his Shadow Cat III OmniMech through the foliage on Ferris. The foliage was not normal trees instead while they were as tall as trees instead of brown wood and green or orange foliage these had completely black with blue, green, and purple bulbs which produced light. “Well, you’re not getting me today” he cursed twisting the Shadow Cat’s torso and letting rip with the arm mounted LB 10X-AC equipped there blasting the chasing Wusun. The Raven Ransom was if the Nova Cats lost the battle, then the entire Fourteenth Vision would become a Snow Raven unit, while Lucian had been rejected at the Grand Melee his father had been a Nova Cat and his mother had brought him to the Clan from St Ives, it was his home.
Today he was going to defend his home and win the battle “One-One, to Command Star I’ve got a pair of Wusuns tracking me through the Blue Forest, status.” He asked realizing he had used a contraction after he used it. He had been separated from the lead Trinary when his star had been ambushed by an aerospace fighter star, he had ordered them to scatter and regroup but his path had brought him into an enemy vehicle unit and then more aerospace fighters.
“We are holding Star Colonel, Assault hit them full force at the same time as the Snow Tigers, the Ravens tried to counter us with fighters but we have them boxed.”
“Roger, I am…” he paused for a moment turning and blasting the lead Wusun with another salvo of autocannon fire, following up with lasers and then finally an SRM salvo as the two craft strafed overhead. Fire hitting the underside of the fighters brought one craft down and crippled a second. “two Wusuns out of the fight, I’m heading back.”
“Star Colonel…” his XO interrupted
“Frack it Jack, I am heading back” he repeated speaking properly “no-one gives a damn.”
“We care Star Colonel and so do you, remember that, things come around in their own time.” He said Jack was six years older than Lucian and a freeborn warrior like Lucian, unlike Lucian he did not have the blood that he had and would never have a chance to fight for a Bloodname.
“Roger” he answered running the Shadow Cat III back towards Nova Cat lines when he arrived, he entered at the far-right flank of the battle and saw the units were adhering to Zellbrigen, the Clan duelling rules. “This is Star Colonel Lucian to the Cougar; you are challenged to a Circle of Equals…” he said seeing an unengaged Snow Raven light OmniMech.
“Neg, let us end this Star Colonel Lucian, this is Star Colonel Ryuzo Shu you are so challenged.” A booming voice broke in leaping from the Cougar came five Elemental warriors quickly closing the distance between them.
“Accepted” Lucian said dodging his Shadow Cat III to the right leaning with his autocannon towards the Elemental point filling the air with munitions several of the brown Snow Raven suits were battered by autocannon pellets but they kept coming. As his Shadow Cat moved missiles impacted on the side and back of the OmniMech further damaging armour plates on the medium Mech’s back and left shoulder. Lucian twisted the Shadow Cat’s fleet while continuing to circle the Elemental’s position a Mech could easily run away from the Elementals but that would make the trial pointless. Instead, he allowed them to stay in range the autocannon clicked as it reloaded and he fired another salvo at the Elementals, as the autocannon munitions flew in on the Elementals while they leapt through the air trying to close on the OmniMech. At the crest of their leap another ten short range missiles launched from the suits heading for Lucian’s Mech, Lucian decided to throw off the Elementals by turning straight into the missiles ducking the head of the Mechs cockpit under the missiles. As he did his own short-range missiles locked on the battle armour point and the launcher sent its four missiles towards the Elemental point, he also pulled the trigger on the large laser which was built into the Mech’s torso. Due to the speed of the Shadow Cat Lucian had outfitted the medium design with an Improved Heavy Large Laser which was mounted above the missile launcher, heavy large laser was a double-barrelled laser, the opal laser tore through one of the Elementals tearing the trooper in half.
Now facing the remaining four Elementals Lucian braced seeing the suits land then launch into the air bringing them within range. Lucian reacted quickly as they closed with the right arm of the Shadow Cat III swatting one of the four battle armoured troopers out of the air sending it flying. The trooper slammed into the ground and flipped several times across the ground and did not get back up. The remaining three troopers latched onto the OmniMech and fired their arm mounted lasers to damage the Shadow Cat III’s armour. Inside the cockpit of the Mech Lucian tried to swat the Elementals using the OmniMech’s arm but did not hit any of the three troopers, instead of allowing them to continue to attack the Shadow Cat he brought the right arm across the OmniMech’s chest and threw the Mech forward rolling onto the ground over the arm. One of the scrambling Elementals were crushed under the forty-five-ton OmniMech’s sprawling form while the other two Elementals jumped clear. Lucian continued to roll his OmniMech bringing the legs back up under it and standing it back up, the roll had caused more armour damage but nothing critical, he brought the OmniMech back under control and spied the remaining two Elementals but before he fired on them, he saw that his comm. unit was active and he flicked the switch.
“Star Colonel this is Elemental Pacheco you just crushed Star Colonel Shu; you have won this Circle of Equals.”
“Elemental Pacheco I accept your surrender, you fought well and I claim you and your point mate as Isorla, you will serve Clan Nova Cat now.” He said seeing that the battle around them had almost grinded to a halt as the two Star Colonels fought, more Nova Cats appeared to be active than Snow Ravens and their commander was dead, the Nova Cats had secured victory, and the aerospace fighter production which was the goal.
Pirate Raid Aftermath
Sierra, District of Lothario
Free Worlds League
25th December 3119
On the world of Sierra near the border of the Cirincus Federation Phil Langenberg laid flat on the roof of the warehouse he was based on. Langenberg was a former twenty-year veteran Free Worlds League military trooper who had retired and returned to his homeworld joining the local militia as a weekend warrior to supplement his retirement funds. Now in the aftermath of the worse raid he had ever experienced he was probably the only remaining militia trooper and he believed it was his duty to the people of Sierra to gather as much information on the invaders as possible before they either left or they killed him.
On his rooftop he watched the victors at the spaceport through binoculars they had hit in the middle of the night with airstrikes against the local militia’s base which had flattened the Mechbay before a single BattleMech had been able to deploy. The raiders ground forces then had steamrolled into the local mercenary base and dispatched every member of The Green Resistance Battalion including their dependents wiping out the combined arms battalion.
Now Langenberg was watching as the pirates secured and stripped equipment from the space port and the nearby militia base. They appeared to have an entire Battalion of BattleMechs supported by vehicles, and aerospace forces. He had not seen a single aerospace fighter so he believed they had returned to orbit probably to a carrier DropShip as nowhere else on the planet had the defences nor the facilities to support their number. There was nothing special with the vehicles other than they appeared to be from manufacturers that were based across the Inner Sphere and from the Star League-era giving no indication of whom they belonged to.
The strange thing about these invaders were their BattleMechs, the tactics of overwhelming force was nothing new but this Battalion of invaders appeared to use only two designs of BattleMech both of which Langenberg classed in the assault category. There were units in the Inner Sphere like the Davion Assault Guards or the Lyran Royal Guards which were known to have entire regiments of assault machines but pirates rarely had more than a lance of the type of unit. The second strange thing was that he did not recognize either design after twenty years as an infantry trooper Langenberg thought he was familiar with the majority of the Inner Sphere and Clan designs but neither of these he could say for absolutely certainty that he knew where they were from.
The first and more numerous designs was a humanoid design with two boxy but agile looking legs supporting a torso which appeared to be split into three sections in the middle the chest almost looked like the figure “8” with a rounded lower part and a rounded upper chest which blended almost seamlessly with the rounded cockpit. From the just above middle of the “8” in were four missile ports but otherwise the central torso section appeared to lack weapons. On either side of this there were two rectangular side torso which extended from the waist to the shoulders extending beyond the central torso and curved over down the back of the Mech. Unlike the central section these side sections featured two weapon ports which extended from the torso which Langenberg had noted that they were probably medium lasers of some type. The right shoulder section of the torso sported a small turret which appeared to be an anti-missile system. Finally, from the right shoulder another laser extended from the arm’s structure while the arm itself held a large Mech sized sword while the left arm held a Mech sized shield. The BattleMech was like a variant of the Spartan BattleMech manufactured during the days of the original Star League but it was like no production model he had ever seen before.
While the first design was similar to something that Langenberg had seen before the second BattleMech was like nothing he had seen before. The design looked like it was around the same size as the first design but took a different approach, this design featured two heavily armoured legs with the armour angled off in multiple directions. Langenberg was no expert in armour design but he believed that the armour may be a form of stealth armour and he had made such remarks in his logs. These legs were connected to one angled box of a torso which extended forward of the Mech’s body the lower part had long angled armour slabs which angled upwards and supported the low-slung cockpit of the BattleMech. It was possible that the heavily armoured cockpit was even a torso mounded variant but Langenberg was sure that the plates of armour on the front of the design were armoured viewports meaning it was more likely a lower slung cockpit. On top of this cockpit was almost like an angled helmet of a ground trooper again like the leg and torso armour this was angled in various directions and looked like it was designed to deflect radar signals while also acting as the ships sensor suite. Finally, the torso featured what looked like a forward mounted ten-tube long range missile launcher over its left side. Both arms were of a similar design featuring the same angled armour as the rest of the BattleMech, the upper arm sections almost appeared like they had been applied in rectangular sections while the bottom of the arms both ended in full battle fists. Over the left wrist there were two large tubular weapon mounts they featured insulation piping and no obvious vents so Langenberg believed that they were some type of laser weapon probably of the large calibre. On the right arm, like the other arm, the rounded weapon was fitted over the wrist of the Mech and it took the form of a wider tube almost like a box with rounded sides the weapon appeared to have several capacitors attached to it leading Langenberg to believe it was a particle projection cannon of some type.
Neither of the Mechs had any insignia or numbers that Langenberg could make out and both designs featured standard forest/urban camouflage giving no clue to their origins. The only thing that Langenberg had decided was that these Mechs did not belong to the Cinincus Federation, they felt far better maintained and disciplined than anything he had encountered out of the nearby realm. He also could not imagine any mercenary unit other than the Wolf’s Dragoons who could build such a unit so that only left the Lyrans, the Star League or one of the Clans but none of them had motives for striking Sierra. With the defenders destroyed and the planetary HPG disabled the invaders had full control over the local planetary region for nearly a week unlike most raiders they did nor pillage the town instead they only acted if anyone attempted to enter the spaceport. Following the week-long occupation, the pirates pulling out leaving the local population to try and recover from the stunning attack.
-
3120
Avachinsky (Dove-class DropShip)
Freedom, Disputed System
Lyran Commonwealth
9th January 3120
Little equipment had been loaded onto the dozen DropShips that were evacuating the world of Freedom instead the ships were filled with mostly injured members of the Wolf’s Dragoons, the Star League Defence Force, and the Lyran Commonwealth. The evacuation was only possible due to the arrival of the Wolfpack a Wolf’s Dragoons Congress II-class Frigate, the WarShip along with six assault DropShips had launched a full strike against the Coyote Battleship Canis Latrans creating a distraction enough for the DropShips to evacuate with the wounded. On Freedom the remaining troops were fighting a battle in which they were losing ground hourly.
On the DropShip Avachinsky Lieutenant Ezekiel Crow of the 208th Hussar Regimental Brigade, laid on a gurney while they were evacuated. He had worked hard over the last nine years, since Liao, to make becoming and integral part of the 208th and now he was abandoning them. A nurse moved between the cots of the ship as it burned towards their waiting JumpShips. As soon as the Wolfpack had begun its attack the friendly JumpShips had arrived waiting to evacuate as many as they could. “Name soldier” she asked over the moans of the wounded.
“Ezekiel Crow, Lieutenant, 208th Hussar Regiment, Star League Defence Force” he replied
“Home planet?”
“Li… Liberty” he stuttered answering her question
“Don’t worry Lieutenant, we’ll have you out of here soon.”
“Have the navy arrived?”
“The Wolf’s Dragoons vessel Wolf Pack is assisting us, the SLDF and Lyran Navies have not arrived.” The nurse explained
“Why not?”
“Freedom does not have enough tactical significance, there are bigger systems that need protected.” She said giving the most basic of explanations, in truth the SLDF were assisting in defending the shipyards in the Gladius system, the factories on Glengarry and the factories on Hesperus II, additional WarShips including the First Lord’s escort group were enroute to Skye along with the Archon and current First Lord but the were still several jumps away from being nearly in a position to help and the troops on Freedom were running short on supplies while the Coyotes with their naval blockade had been able to bring in several additional clusters.
“Not even to evacuate us?” Crow wondered “isn’t that wrong.”
“It’s war son it’s never right.” She said moving on leaving Crow to wonder, he had reinvented his life and fought for the Star League Defence Force but they were ready to leave a system to the invaders due to its lack of industry and its position in the Inner Sphere.
While the DropShips carrying the injured did escape to their JumpShips the Wolf Pack was destroyed battling the Canis Latrans and the ground forces were abandoned to Clan Coyote’s control with the Wolf’s Dragoons Alpha Regiment, along with General Sean Dorran are killed to the man. In protest for the lack of action by the Lyran and SLDF navies the Wolf’s Dragoons Gamma Regiment activates an escape clause in their contract with the Lyran Commonwealth refusing further contracts with the state. Gamma Regiment return to their base on Outreach where despite the world now being under Star League stewardship the Dragoons still have significant training, construction, and recruitment facilities.
On Freedom the Fourth Isle of Skye Guards RCT and the Second Skye Jaegers are reduced in strength to less than four regiments of combined troops by the time they surrender while the two regiment’s worth of the SLDF’s 208th Hussars are also taken as prisoners as Freedom surrenders to Clan Coyote.
Star League Response, Office of the First Lord
Unity City, Court of the Star League
Terra, Star League Protectorate
17th January 3120
Rarely since the formation of this current Star League did the First Lord come back to Terra and use the official Office of the First Lord but the office had existed since the people of Terra had reopened Unity City and begun the renovation of the mighty city. Normally when the First Lord returned to Terra it was for one of the Whitting Conferences where a new First Lord would be elected to replace them but today was not one of those days instead Archon Jessica Steiner, the currently elected First Lord, had returned to Terra for a dual announcement.
Sitting at the desk of the First Lord which was really more of a Tri-Vid studio than a true working office with additional lights set around the room so it could be lit in any way they wanted. Jessica had decided against wearing the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces armed forces uniform, because that was not the only people she represented, and she would not wear the Star League uniform and dishonour the men and women who had fought under that banner. Instead, she had worn a stunning dress which changed colour between Steiner blue and Star League green depending on how the light hit it. She had directed the Tri-Vid directors of this message to change the lighting during the broadcast so her dress showed the Green of the Star League and Blue of House Steiner equally.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I am Archon Jessica Steiner the First Lord of the Star League. Today I remind our enemies that this Star League was created to protect the citizens of its members states and of those that live on worlds designated to be Protectorate worlds.” She said calmly “recent attacks by our neighbours have called into question this Star League’s strength. Today we say enough it enough, two full Star League Divisions are being deployed to the Isle of Skye along with full naval support. Our message to our neighbours is if you think you can continuously use your naval strength to attack us, we will respond in kind.”
She said pausing imagining how those words would hit for a moment, no one was alive today to remember the horrors of the early Succession Wars when naval strength and weapons of mass destruction were unleashed on a mass scale against the populations of the Inner Sphere. That was not what she was advocating but she also had to show that the Star League had steel. “Strength does not mean the reckless employment of firepower; the population of a planet should NEVER be the target of a nation’s ambitions. I will NEVER support or forgive a leader who employs weapons of mass destruction against a population centre whether it be on a planet or from the space around it, it will NEVER be acceptable.”
The warning would not be enough, she knew that, she and the other leaders of the Star League nations had discussed this, none of them would accept the position that words would be enough to send a message. “This Star League was not created to stop a nation’s ambitions nor was it intended of being employed as a peacekeeping force which would take away our traditions of marital spirit or contain our great military units but it was created to protect the Inner Sphere’s people from the Clans and from ourselves.” She said lingering on the word for several moments before continuing, time to wrap this up.
“Some of us have turned away from the Star League Defence Force and its principles, they have turned to isolationism and embraced the ideals of the past. It is an individual nation’s choice to decide the direction to take their nation in. We will not force a nation to join the Star League, but we will punish one that brings total war against civilian targets.” She said issuing her final warning, now for the promise “this morning in coordinated strikes by Star League members and the Star League Defence Force made retribution strikes against the Capellan Confederation for their actions in bringing war to the populations of Carbonis and Las Halles.” She announced, for the most part the attacks had come as a complete surprise in the Capellan Confederation but that was not the end of it. “This message goes to the Capellan Confederation Chancellor and to anyone who thinks we do not take attacks against Star League nation states seriously, attacks will continue until retributions are made for what you have done.”
Jessica Steiner had tried to sway opinions for such a campaign against the Clans but the actions of the Capellan Confederation on Carbonis and Las Halles had all but crippled both world’s ability to support their populations. Some of the Star League experts had put their recovery at decades, possibly longer, possibly never if the Capellan Confederation followed its standard practice of strip-mining border worlds to support its core industry. Instead, twelve systems had been targeted by the Free Worlds League, Federated Suns and Star League Defence Force by all accounts they had taken the mercenaries and militia forces by surprise and rolled over the defenders in nearly every system.
The largest battle had happened in the Vertabren system when three Star League Defence Force WarShips led by the SLS Truce of Tukayyid had led two Otey-class Battleships against the CCSS Chancellor’s Might, a Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleship, the CCSS Qetesh, a recently acquired Independence-class Escort Carrier, and the CCSS Mandarin, a Mandarin-class Battle-cruiser. During the battle the SLS Tukayyid a vessel which had served the original Star League before being held in reserve by ComStar during the Succession Wars, the vessel finally reactivated into Star League service in 3082 took fatal damage in a head-to-head pass forcing the Capellan WarShips to manoeuvre exposing the Chancellor’s Might’s flank to barrages from the two Otey-class Battleships which were enough to break the back of the mighty WarShip and end its fight. Neither the Qetesh or Mandarin had enough firepower to resist the two Battleships and both were destroyed.
In the Elnath system two Mandarin-class Battlecruisers are destroyed by SLDF forces at the cost of the SLS Makarov, an Indefatigable-class Battleship. The two ships concentrate on the command ship of the Second WarShip Squadron but they have nowhere near enough firepower or fighters to counter the DropShips and fighters of the Star League Defence Force.
Elsewhere near Capellan Confederation space the Free Worlds League on the world of Wisconsin Lord Simeon Simmerson announces that Hindmarsh, Fieferana, Mauripur and Al Jubaylah are joining Wisconsin and joining the Magistracy of Canopus following repeated disagreements with Lesnovo and Atreus over the presence of Clansmen specifically the Smoke Jaguars in the District of Lesnovo and Sea Foxes traders within the Free Worlds League, the Free Worlds League’s inability to liberate territory from the Wolves nor stop the Magistracy of Canopus gaining territory.
Intelligence Briefing
Buena, Buena Archonette
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
30th January 3120
Agent Aaron Price-Lewis walked into the office of Archonette Kelly Varnay the present leader of Buena and of the Buena Archonette which controlled the territory in the Lyran Commonwealth which bordered with the Mandrill Collective, the Cirincus Federation and Free Worlds League. “Aaron good to see you what do you have for me today?” She asked not standing on ceremony, Kelly Varnay was a military officer at heart and had taken on the position on Buena simply to ensure the region remained part of the Commonwealth, with support from Tharkad and then Carlisle waning the people needed to know that they had a leader who cared for them. Today she was dressed in a simple duty uniform but her slightly greying grey hair was worn down to her shoulders.
“News from Cirincus” he said, Aaron was in his mid-thirties he wore his brown hair longer than regulation and looked like he could do with a shave but what else could be expected from someone in the intelligence community.
“What are our pirate friends up to?” She asked, more often she was interested in the Fire Mandrills movements especially considering their recent actions had secured the Cruz Alta and Sarikavak systems from Buena defenders completely destroying the Fifth Buena Guards LCT using air superiority provided by their WarShips and attending DropShips, something Buena simply struggled to match. Varnay had applied to the province capital and to both co-capitals of the Lyran Commonwealth but so far there had been no definitive answer.
“It looks like their campaign in the Zeta Quadrant worlds is coming to an end quicker than expected, the mercenaries hired to cover that region are laying down arms. Apparently, there is a crack mercenary unit that has deploying companies of the same Mech to knock down defenders.” He explained
“The same company that has been hitting worlds in the Free Worlds League?” She asked having read the reports of four worlds in the Free Worlds League being struck by similarly equipped units.
“We believe so SAFE has only just arrived on Sierra where the most successful attack occurred, we will probably find out something from them in the next six months to six years.” He said only half-jokingly SAFE had never been classed as a first-rate Intelligence organisation and was not known for its speed. “Either way the Cirincans appear to be gaining the upper hand and securing their border.” He explained
“Do you think they will be willing to listen to my proposal?” She asked, she was struggling to gain support from any place of authority, none of them saw the threat that the Fire Mandrills posted. The Rim Collection was no-more the Clan now fully controlled by the Clan influences which had been allowed to settle there. According to briefings she had read there were as many as the remnants of five different Clans within the Collective all living under the Fire Mandrill banner each of them had been absorbed just like the Rim Collection, and what she feared would happen to the Buena worlds.
“They may, these mercenaries can only do so much your offer of weapons and materials I think would go a long way to building back up the Cirincus state.” He suggested “but it may also build a rod against our own back if they turn on us.”
“Agreed, but we have already stripped all manufacturing assets from Andrion and Baltazar III as well as all resources they could find useful.” She suggested, both worlds had small native populations she could not negotiate with their sovereignty but she needed the Cirincus Federation to act with them against the Mandrills to have any hope of resisting further occupation from the Clan force.
“True, but it is a pirate state just having the territory and population may be enough.” Price-Lewis said “that said your presence alone in the Cirincus Federation may be enough of an incentive for them to take action, they could capture you.”
“Hopefully it does not come to that” she said agreeing with him “I am taking the Maersk as part of my escort, that should stop them thinking about doing anything stupid.” She suggested it was only a Fox II-class Merchant vessel but at its core it was a WarShip and would provide superior firepower to any JumpShip.
“They are pirates, stupid is at their core.”
“Someone may suggest our actions fall into that category.” The Intelligence Agent cautioned knowing exactly how Tharkad and Carlisle would react when they found out about Kelly Varnay’s actions.
“If we do not do something then the Fire Mandrills will continue to spill over the border. We need to hit their supply lines and Cirincus has the access. I will not stand ideally by and let them win. The Clans do not do support structures, they will not defend their lines sufficiently enough to stop the Cirincans and if they do then we’ll eliminate Cirincus as a threat as a by-product.”
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With a nice update from Marauder648 from the Hell's Horses included in this update (yes Marauder this is years old, I don't leave anything that people send me)
Border Conflict
Aurigan Collective
Periphery
2nd February 3120
The Aurigan Collective and Fronc Reaches come into conflict when the systems of Lost World and Aether choose to join the Aurigan Collective through democratic process over their current position within the Fronc Reaches. On both worlds the defences and mercenaries hired to support the Fronc Reaches government them attempt to resist but it becomes very clear that the local populations support the change in overall government and they withdraw into the Fronc Reaches. Interstellar messages exchanged via Fronc and Coromodir make it clear from Fronc that they will not allow the Aurigans to muscle Fronc out of their current territories while Coromodir respond by stating they will fully support anyone who wishes to make a choice about the government they follow.
Site 03-Gamma, Test Site 0930 AM
Csesztreg, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
11th February 3120
Csesztreg was cold and barren, a world of grey mountains, seemingly endless tundra and cold dark seas. Its rather thin atmosphere and cold temperatures would have left it to be passed over if not for its huge mineral wealth and in the early days of the human diaspora, Csesztreg’s resources made it a world ripe for colonization.
During the Star League era, efforts to thicken the atmosphere so you could breathe outside without wearing a re-breather or having to carry an oxygen tank paid off, and as soon as people could breathe normally, the mining begun.
Even now, centuries later Csesztreg was an industrial powerhouse, its reserves of metals and other ores nowhere near close to being depleted and whilst it was far from the most habitable world, its strategic value was one of the reasons that Clan Hell’s Horses chose the world as the capital of their Occupation Zone.
Although the administrative capital of the entire OZ was the capital city of Budapest, the Hell’s Horses had made their home several hundred miles from the city in a far more defensible location. The Horse’s Blood Chapel was buried in a former mine which was covered from above by over a kilometre of rock from the mesa that the Horses had made their military capital.
Nicknamed ‘The Stables’ or Istállók in the local Hungarian dialect, the Mesa was the seat of the Hell’s Horses Khan as well as the meeting place for the Bloodnamed of the Clan, as well as a major R&D centre. Because of its importance, several batteries of fifty-five-centimetre Naval Lasers as well as heavy anti-ship missiles dominated the space above ‘The Stables’ whilst at lower altitudes any attackers would have faced turreted weapons and concentric walls that gave the whole facility a layer of protection and defence that would have rivaled a Star League-era Castle Brian.
Despite being purpose built for their use Khan Teresa Cooper did not like spending much time at her Headquarters, and much preferred being closer to the front lines, and thus closer to the action. But she had duties to perform and this was one of them especially with a recent Lyra counter attack which had seen Nekkar and Whittington liberated from Hell’s Horses forces.
Research and Development Site 03-A was not a glamorous name for any facility, but its name belied its importance. Here the Scientist and Technician Castes worked on new weapons and configurations as well as new Mechs and more.
The Khan was met by a deputation of Scientists and Technicians, all of whom bowed low as the Khan approached at the door behind additional Elementals stood and waited guarding the exit.
“Scientist Kline, what do you have to report?” She asked the Elemental Khan stood over all others in the room. The Scientist in question stepped forwards his long lab coat flapping in the cold air before the facilities hangar door closed with a rumbling boom.
“Initial testing goes well; we have used data from our SLDF archives as well as field data obtained on ChatterWeb regarding the Inner Sphere’s new LAM designs and applied it to our three prototypes.”
“Three? I authorised two…” Khan Cooper said, a coldness entering her tone several of the scientists withdrew from her immediate presence. If the Khan flew into a rage and took it out on them physically none of them would survive.
“Aff my Khan, and I apologise for overstepping our boundaries but with three prototypes we can explore and examine the three different weights to see if the design is indeed viable. Also, we have verified that, unlike LAM’s we can make the new ATV modular.” The Scientist hurried his words, hoping to impress the Khan with information instead of immediate demonstration.
“The construction of the third prototype has not delayed testing, and whilst it did take slightly more resources than initially planned, we have made use of as many off the shelf components and all three units share the same electronics suite and communications systems.
The Khan and several other Warriors who were part of her Keshik stepped forwards as they beheld the result of the labours of the Scientists and Technicians. Called ATV’s or ‘All-Terrain-Vehicles’ to hide the program from any causally prying eye, the concept was in essence a Land Air Mech but for the ground, able to move between a vehicle mode or a rugged quadrupedal BattleMech design, offering stability and flexibility as well as superior cross-country performance to vehicles. The ‘Quadvee’ as they were really called would not have to rely on bridging vehicles to cross rivers and could move through heavier terrain than any tank could ever dream of.
But to the Khan’s eyes, the three largely similar vehicles were tall, ungainly things. The smallest of the three massed thirty-five tons and stood on four rather spindly legs, each one bulked out by the tracks that were its motive system when in vehicle mode. Its ‘double-decker’ cockpit was repeated on the fifty-five and seventy-five-ton designs, making them look rather top heavy and presenting a rather easy target.
“And what of the transformation system itself? Three months ago, you reported that there were ‘difficulties,’ have these difficulties been overcome?” Khan Cooper turned to look at the Scientists some of whom all but wilted under her gaze. There was an almost agonising silence until a Technician spoke up.
“Not entirely my Khan, while the actual process of transitioning between the two modes has been done, it is slow, and there has been issues with stability on the prototypes. We are also working on ensuring redundancy and toughness. If I may be so bold My Khan, I saw the distasteful look you gave them and honestly, I do not blame you. But… these are only prototypes, once we have the basics fully worked out, then we can refine the units for combat roles. The lighter unit has been tested on ranges and we have had no problems with weapon system integration.”
“Aff!” Scientist Klein spoke up, eager to regain control of the conversation “We are now ironing out the bugs and with each iteration of the conversion systems and their associated electronics, we are getting closer to a fast, fluid and stable conversion.” He promised his leader, he was confident that they would perfect the project and create a weapon system superior to the SLDF’s LAM project.
The Khan looked at the Technician who had spoken up “Your name please.”
Several Scientists and more junior technicians shuffled ever so slightly away and to the side. “I am Technician Hector my Khan.”
“It took courage to speak to me over your supervisor and senior, how long have you been working on this project?”
“Since its inception My Khan, I work on the mechanical part of the conversion system, overseeing my work teams on the project.” He said confidently he could see the disapproving looks from the two supervisors.
“You are a plain-speaking man; I want your appraisal. How soon do you think the conversion process will be finished and fully viable?” The Khan demanded; the scientists could talk in riddles for hours trying to hide their inadequacies.
Hector glanced at the Scientists and his fellow Technicians and Khan Cooper could not help but smile slightly as she pointedly cleared her throat. “Now is not the time to be quiet…” She stated becoming angry
“My Khan, once the conversion process is done, we can then work on a true combat capable prototype, and of course there is the training program for any crew.” The Tech said confidently he was sure that the QuadVee concept was a sound one, it just required the last few kinks to be worked out.” He said the conversion process was the most difficult part of the entire process. “I do have a suggestion which may further our progress, one which our Touman may be best placed to assist…”
“Advising your Khan on military matters now hmmm?” She said calming after hearing someone with confidence.
“N-Neg My Khan, I would never think to…” His confidence melted in moments facing a challenge from an Elemental but that was to be expected, she was more than their Khan she was a member of the ruling warrior caste, none of them would ever be allowed to forget it. The Clans knew the chaos which had over taken the Homeworlds was caused by scientists rising above their station and attempting to rule, they would not allow that to happen here.
“I have decided I like you Senior Technician Hector. Scientist Klein, Senior Technician Hector, I will hold you to your time schedule. But I will not tolerate delays or excuses.” She said stepping back “what is your suggestion?”
“A Trial of Possession” he suggested looking straight at the Khan specifically one aimed at one of two targets.” Hector said pausing waiting for Khan Cooper to nod “there are many military units that are equipped with Land Air Mechs but to inspect their conversion systems we would need to disassemble them and attempt to reverse engineer the systems.” He explained “my suggestion is a Trial of Possession against Irece in the Draconis Combine or Talitha in the Star League Protectorate, the site of two of the largest LAM factories in the entire Inner Sphere.”
“Two of the most heavily defended systems in the entire Inner Sphere.” Cooper noted “we would need half of the Touman to capture either system.” She said dismissing the idea completely out of hand. “Not to mention Talitha is through not only Star League claimed space but also Lyran territory and Wolf space.” She continued thinking out aloud “Irece is more vulnerable, but neither the Bear nor the Coyote is likely to wish to negotiate with us…” She said beginning to pace, sometimes it helped her think, members of the gathered scientist caste scattered out of the way. “The Lynx however…”
“My Khan we would not need to seize the factory, our records from the Star League-era are spotty on the Land Air Mech technology, much of the information was destroyed during the Exodus Civil War we are literally reinventing the systems hence our issues with the conversion technology. The Star League scientists were impressive.”
“Perhaps the Clans made a mistake in only breeding warriors in the Iron Wombs, we should have harvested some scientist DNA as well.” Cooper half joked she could just imaging if the Scientist, Technician and Merchant castes gained access to Iron Womb technology, trueborns in every caste… she shuddered at the thought.
“I will get you your technology, Hector you will accompany our strike force to Irece.” She said to his shock “you appear to be the only one that believes in making this a success, now it’s time to put your beliefs where your mouth is.” She said smiling then glancing back at the other scientists “I will get you what Hector believes you need. And then you… You -will- be finished on time…” She turned her eyes back to one of the towering QuadVee’s, in Mech form its tall ‘turret’ like body stuck out like a sore thumb. “And for Kerensky’s sake and for the morale of those who have to use the damn things, reduce their height and make them more aesthetically pleasing! We are the Hell’s Horses we ride into battle gracefully.”
A chorus of “Aff’s” greeted Khan Cooper’s words and she smiled, perhaps the day had not been a complete waste after all. She had lit a fire under the QuadVee design team as well as tour the production lines for the Kratos and Alke tanks. It was good for her people to see her taking an interest in things other than combat. Although the role of governing the people was left largely to the various Factors of her Clan, they still needed to see the person who was their leader. Not a Scientist, not a Merchant and not a technician, but a Warrior. And now thanks to Hector she had her next target… the Lyrans could wait.
Political Debate
Royal Court, Carlisle
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
20th February 3120
At a closed session on the co-capital world of Carlisle deep in the Lyran Commonwealth the Royal Court meet and discuss the Archon Jessica Steiner’s recent performance as leader of the Lyran Commonwealth and as the First Lord of the Star League. Many of the system leaders believe that her actions in targeting the Capellan Confederation instead of the multiple Clan threats is a failure to the people of the Lyran Commonwealth. Not only had the Coyotes threatened and invaded House Steiner but now both the Fire Mandrills and Stone Spirits were causing more trouble invading multiple systems between them.
Recent counter attacks by the Lyrans which had seen Nekkar and Whittington liberated from the Hell’s Horses and the securing of Star League Defence Force reinforcements to protect the Isle of Skye gave many of the Archon’s supporters counter arguments to the calls against the Archon. Also unknown to many Lyrans the Cirincus Federation had begun striking logistical targets within the Mandrill Collective causing issues with their assaults against the Buena Archonette.
SAFE Investigation
Sierra, District of Lothario
Free Worlds League
22nd February 3120
Following the heavy raid and short occupation of Sierra in 3119 a SAFE investigation team of twenty arrive on Sierra to investigate who raided the world and search for evidence. During their investigation they take witness statements, gun camera footage and fragments of armour which had been blown off the invading BattleMechs and vehicles.
Without the resources to analyse the armour fragments on Sierra the samples are taken off world for further laboratory work on Gibraltar, the travel and work will take a minimum of two months for the results to come back to Sierra. The people of Sierra are still recovering from the attack and scrambling for answers to what happened to their world and who is responsible.
Scout mission, Bug-Eye-class Surveillance Craft
Huntress, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
26th February 3120
On the outskirts of the Huntress system there was a flash of light as a small vessel appeared in the system. The ship was one of the smallest WarShips ever designed, a relic from the first Star League, the Bug-Eye-class Surveillance Craft it looked more like an aerodyne-type DropShip. The black-painted ship’s main maneuvering drives fired and the ship began to move in system as it did several sensor dishes and radio antennas extended from hatches along the hull scanning the system as it went.
Within two days the Bug-Eye reached Huntress’ ship lanes which would take it to the main jump point continuing to scan as it went. Huntress, the former homeworld of Clan Smoke Jaguar, was now fully under the control of the Society which controlled most of the Kerensky Cluster. As a result of the domination of Kerensky Cluster by the Society ship traffic in the system was far lower than at any other time in the history of the Clans but the current levels of traffic and the system's damaged sensor net is enough for the Bug-Eye to slip through the traffic relatively unnoticed.
For five days the ship cruised silently through the Huntress system intentionally changing course away from incoming ships to avoid direct contact, when the ship received any messages an automated message is sent reporting that the ship’s receiver was damaged, they were unable to answer and they were heading for a JumpShip and then onto Circe. After the five days the ship passed beyond Huntress' star where it used its Jump drive to escape the system. There were no WarShips in the Huntress system and few of the JumpShips cared about one DropShip disappearing off their sensors.
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It has been way too long (with extra delay here :'( as I thought I had and forgot), I have finally freed up sometime for an update so here it is:
Raid in Force
Outskirts of Lootera, Huntress
Kerensky Cluster
6th March 3120
The sky over the former homeworld of Clan Smoke Jaguar Huntress was on fire as DropShips and aerospace fighters entered the atmosphere and engaged the Society’s defenders. “This is Khan Petra Furey of Clan Smoke Jaguar; we have returned home! Glory to the people of Clan Smoke Jaguar.” The leader of Clan Smoke Jaguar declared as her Shadow Cat OmniMech dropped on its jump jets from the Union C-class DropShip Tigerspire.
From the ground weapons fire rose towards the falling BattleMechs and Battle Armoured troopers as several OmniMechs, Battle Armour and ProtoMechs moved to engage them. A cluster of Smoke Jaguars was nowhere near enough forces to invade Huntress, but conquest was not their goal, today they were here to challenge the Society’s rule, awaken the population and salvage as much as they could which was why as part of this joint operation the Nova Cats had provided an entire clusters worth of salvage equipment as well as trained techs to operate them during battlefield conditions. This unit blurred the line between that of a tech support unit and a combat unit which made many within the Smoke Jaguars uneasy.
When Furey had first heard of the unit she had been shocked that a Clan had embraced an Inner Sphere philosophy so readily and was curious to see them in action. As well as that the Nova Cats had unleashed another surprise as well as the Bug-Eye class ship Storm, the Drake-class Corvette Foxhound and the Carrack-class Transport Eon Trespass in the deep periphery Khan Furey had been surprised by the arrival of the Tetrarch-class Battle-cruiser Norsel. Such support from a Clan that once classed her own as enemies had humbled Khan Furey but it had also lit a question with her, if the other Clans were as enthusiastic about returning to the Homeworlds as Clan Nova Cat, why hadn’t they returned before now?
“Ten metres!” The computer called out to her “jump jet fuel low… jump jet fuel empty” the Shadow Cat called out to Petra she flexed the OmniMech’s knees and prepared for landing. The forty-five-ton machine landed heavily on the dark soil of Huntress as laser fire and missiles flew past her Petra Furey opened up the communication grid.
“Clan Smoke Jaguar has returned” she communicated intent on reaching as many of the people in Lootera as possible, this city was once her Clan’s capital but since their fall the city too had fallen on hard times, she could see in the distance that entire apartment blocks had been burned out and left in ruin. Seeing the state of the city made her angry it appeared the other Clans and the Society had treated her people terribly. “Come and face us!”
As she spoke, she saw a four-legged ProtoMech run past her Mech followed by a pair of battle armoured troopers she twisted the Shadow Cat’s torso and blasted the ProtoMech with two large lasers coring the enemy unit as her Mech was rocked by missile fire. “They are among us!”
From all side’s missiles, lasers and autocannon fire flew into the mix as more units engaged their targets but these units were not firing on Furey’s units instead Clan Nova Cat’s Watch Cluster, which was equipped with stealth armour, suddenly revealed themselves within Furey’s unit and engaged the Society forces. The appearance of an entire additional cluster of forces quickly overwhelmed the Society forces closest to their forces and forced the others back towards Lootera. “Push them back, annihilate them!” She ordered, she paused for a moment realizing how ironic it was that her forces were planning on wiping out their enemy after what happened to her own Clan on this world. She glanced down and saw her private channel with the Dezgra Cluster’s commander was active “Star Colonel Ariana Nostra, go ahead” she said welcoming input from the Nova Cat commander.
“Khan Furey, we should not over extend against these people, we do not know how much they have fortified” she cautioned the Khan.
“Aff, I agree Star Colonel, but my people need a victory like this on this soil.” She said watching her Lost Ones push forwards into the Society’s retreat “also I want as much salvage as possible, command your people to get to work on the units nearby, any weapon system we have not encountered before, any unknown type of unit is of interest” she commanded.
“Our salvage crew is well aware of the briefing Khan Furey” Nostra said, Furey could hear the annoyance in her voice and could not help but smile. “But we did not just come here for a Smoke Jaguar victory and the salvage from broken BattleMechs and ProtoMechs.”
“I’m well aware” she replied off the cuff intentionally using a contraction to keep the Nova Cat Watch commander off balance, they were allies in this operation but she had no intention on letting them run everything, to be Smoke Jaguars her people had to act like them. Petra glanced down and saw one of her Star Captains was also wishing to speak “you have your orders” she said switching channels not waiting for Nostra to reply. “Go ahead Loric”
“Khan, the dezgra Society have retreated into the city firing inferno loaded missiles into the buildings to cover their retreat we will be welcoming ambush to chase them into Lootera…” he briefed her quickly, she could see his Clan-modified Grasshopper was standing on the outskirts of the city firing at long range. He did not mention the civilians at risk and nor had she expected him to, these people had not been Smoke Jaguars for a very long time, they were not their concern.
“Understood continue to fire at targets of opportunity, fall back to the drop-zone the Nova Cats are setting up salvage operations, I want out Techs out and assisting them, we need to make sure they do not take the lion’s share of the salvage.” She had contracted the Nova Cats to assist her people, they had the units, the WarShips and the personnel but this was a Smoke Jaguar mission.
“Aff, Khan Furey, it is nice to be home Quiaff?” He asked, he was too young to remember calling Huntress home, being a freeborn who had grown up on the Twin Sons but she appreciated the sentiment.
“Aff, it is, just a shame we will not be staying.” She admitted
“Maybe not today” Loric responded she could see his two stars were arcing back towards the landing zone leaving her with her thoughts. The Smoke Jaguars were quickly securing their landing zones but just landing on Huntress was not their goal instead of remaining silent she decided to wake the beast of Huntress.
“This is Khan Petra Furey to the people of Huntress, we are Clan Smoke Jaguar, you were our people once. We failed you against the stavag Inner Sphere, the Clans failed you against the Society…” She said broadcasting to the local communication grid “this is your world, fight for your world, fight for Huntress!” She called out to the population she had no idea if it would make a difference but it was not her job to fight for the people, if they wanted it, they had to fight for themselves. She needed to win her people and the people of Huntress time so she switched communication channels “Jaguar Actual to Norsel Actual.”
“Nosel Actual, go!” the commanding officer of the Norsel which was in high orbit answered.
“Have you identified the location of the planetary HPG signals?” She asked, she hated that she had to make this decision but it was a necessary evil. It was also not a Smoke Jaguar that would be pulling the trigger.
“Affirmative Storm has identified primary, secondary and a tertiary signal emanating from the surface. Tertiary signal may be from a mobile emitter on a vehicle of BattleMech.” The WarShip commander reported one of the reasons she had wanted the Storm along in the first place was the Bug-Eye’s advanced signals.
“Drop the anvil on all targets Jaguar Actual Out!” She commanded it was her decision, she would deal with the consequences. From orbit the Tetrarch-class Battle-cruiser boosted out of its position doing a flyby over Huntress. As it closed on the world the forward quad mount of class-45 naval lasers activated in a single strike which targeted the planetary HPG station streaks of red light burned through the atmosphere from the WarShip bearing down on Lootrea City. Three of the laser blasts struck their target from above burning through the Hyper Pulse Generator dish ruining it and the station below as the blasts struck bedrock a massive explosion consumed the entire building brining it all to the ground. Naval strikes from orbit were never perfect like they were seen in holo-movies unlike what was broadcast in the news and in entertainment there was always collateral damage, always a price for such a barbaric act. The fourth high powered capital laser was off target and burned along a nearby street incinerating civilian vehicles and pedestrians alike killing dozens. The power of the naval blast combined with the destruction of the HPG Station shattered windows for half a dozen blocks I either direction.
The Norsel’s nose then came up before the ship smashed into the atmosphere but the eight hundred-and-thirty tonne vessel did not arch away from the planet instead its engines kicked in again and it flew over Huntress once in position its forward port weapons and broadside weapons opened fire. From orbit the precision naval lasers tore down through the atmosphere flattening two secondary HPG sites and a miliary base where the tertiary signal had come from. Secondary explosions from the strikes levelled civilian homes and storage areas around the HPGs dozens more civilians would have been killed or made homeless by the strike. The Nosel then boosted away from the world escaping Huntress’ gravity well their actions dishonourable but classed as necessary by Khan Petra Furey she had decided on this course of action before they had even jumped into the system. The Nova Cats protested engaging targets within the city and they had fought in Circles of Equals with the Khan, which she had won, even then they had demanded the orders in writing before they had agreed to the actions.
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For three days the population of Huntress had risen up against the Society with mass rioting across the globe in every settlement where there was a population. Some people had hidden weapons and were now openly using them against the Society, others were attacking their oppressors with clubs made out of metal and wood. The society had cracked down heavily on the people and thousands had been killed in the streets across Huntress in places the streets literally ran red with Smoke Jaguar blood. Pretra Furey hated what the Society was doing but she had no choice. The population rising up against their Society oppressors was something that her force could use as a distraction allowing them to operate while the Society dealt with the population.
So far, the mission was going well they had taken the Society on Huntress by complete surprise and they had already accomplished two goals the Nova Cat Dezgra force had drawn Society forces into a trap allowing them to salvage eight different designs which the two Clans had previously not known. They had also salvaged several weapons technologies including a variant of the Advanced Tactical Missile fielded by the Clans. Petra herself had not used the technology, living in the arse end of the Free Worlds League made getting top-of-the-line Clan technology difficult at the best of times, but from what she had heard the Nova Cat salvage crews were over the moon at capturing the technology and already impressed with their findings. The other success had been the successful capture of a ProtoMech production facility nearly sixty kilometres south of the capital city the Nova Cats and Smoke Jaguars had overwhelmed local defences and gutted the facility stripping it of everything worth salvaging.
The biggest surprises however had been the arrival of an entire star of battle damaged BattleMechs painted in the colours of Clan Smoke Jaguar presented themselves at the gates of her encampment. She had allowed them in under guard and the seven MechWarriors onboard the Mechs dismounted five men and three women of various ages. They all stood at attention as she walked down the line of warriors they were of various ages, colours and condition. “Who speaks for you?” She demanded Petra had come straight from her Shadow Cat OmniMech, she wore only a charcoal-coloured jumpsuit over her coolant suit, her dark hair tied back in a ponytail, she did not care what she looked in she wanted answers.
“I am MechWarrior Lyle” a tall bald pale skinned warrior said in a deep voice, he was in his early forties and his only distinguishing feature a handle-bar moustache which was turning grey.
“Would you like to explain why you pilot BattleMechs in the colour of Clan Smoke Jaguar without any right to wear them?” She demanded looking at the warrior.
“The Warhawk is my father’s BattleMech” he stated “the others similarly are son, daughters and grand-children of Smoke Jaguars, their assets remained on this world hidden for decades until we returned them to the field.”
“Hidden…” Petra repeated walking away from him down the line a disgusted look on her face “hidden no doubt like you have hidden your heritage for all these years” she said stopping in front of one of the women “how could you have hidden away while the Society took control of your home?”
“Tell me Khan what was it like for your Jaguars hiding in the Inner Sphere and hiding your heritage? What was it like allying with a Succession State for survival? Or allying with our Clans enemies to return home…” she replied “you ask us what why we have hidden “Khan” but I think you know yourself that being Jaguar now is not the same as it once was, Quiaff?”
“Aff, we are not who we once were, we made choices to ensure our survival and ensure that Clan Smoke Jaguar could return” she answered justifying what she had done.
“Exactly Khan” the dark-haired woman replied
“What is your name warrior?”
“Andreja Tbrise” she answered the surname she used was not one that the Khan recognised “my father was a member of the Star League Defence Forces when they were stationed here. He remained behind after the Star League withdrawal to keep an eye on the Clans.” She answered in her thick native accent which was similar to the old Russian of Terra.
“A spy, Quiaff?”
“Aff”
“Surat” Petra swore “spying on the Clans and then siding with one?”
“My father decided that the people of Huntress, including my mother, deserved better and that he had to fight for it.” She answered Petra nodded and walked back along the line.
“By hiding…” the Khan commented
“We have been fighting for months!” Lyle snapped “Khan Furey, we have presented ourselves to you as we are Smoke Jaguars but do not question our dedication.”
“I appreciate that you have presented yourselves to us” Furey answered walking back along the line “but we are not here to fight for Huntress” she explained, she saw the shock on their faces, “Clan Smoke Jaguar is still rebuilding, we are still re-establishing ourselves in the eyes of the other Clans…”
“But the Nova Cats are here…” Andreja interrupted not understanding the situation nor that one does not simply interrupt the Khan.
“Aff, we contracted the Nova Cats, we have resources that they can use and exploit more extensively than us.” Pretra replied irritated at the interruption “we have to establish ourselves with all of the Clans before we can reclaim our home. You present yourselves as Clan Smoke Jaguar warriors so this is something you must understand.”
“Perhaps this is not the right time, Lyle” another of the MechWarriors said
“This is the only time” Lyle responded remaining in the line Petra looked at him “if this does not happen today then our people will have to wait.”
“The others, Quiaff?” She demanded looking at the man “you brought a force to my gates but you hide exactly what you have? We are Clansmen speak plainly or face me in a Circle of Equals.”
“We have eighty people, a mixture of personal weapons and light vehicles. These are our only BattleMechs and MechWarriors, we are aware that Clan Smoke Jaguar respect BattleMech forces over all else.” Lyle explained “we attended without the others to protect them but we cannot continue at the level we are, we need your help.”
“We have a mission here; you have presented your forces I am prepared to take you as Isorla and claim your forces as my own….” Petra began but she saw his hesitance
“you expected something else, Quiaff?”
“Anything short of the liberation of Huntress is not enough” a fourth warrior with a shaved head and a scar running across her face from the left of her forehead to lip said Petra ignored her and looked at Lyle.
“We came here to bring you information, Khan Furey” Lyle responded. “We know of a Smoke Jaguar Brian Cache that has remained untapped through all these years.” He said “unfortunately we do not have the forces to secure and hold the Cache ourselves. Khan Furey, we wish to serve Clan Smoke Jaguar but we also wish to secure our world, you could help us complete both tasks.” He suggested.
“What do you propose MechWarrior?”
“We have the location, your forces assist us in stopping the Society from securing the cache, we split the weapons within the facility and you leave us to continue to fight for our home in the name of our Clan.” Lyle requested Petra looked at the man, depending on the forces that he had they could be a worthy addition to her Clan unfortunately she had no way to transport them to the Inner Sphere and here on Huntress she had no way to support them.
“We have mission objectives on Huntress, our plan is to return to Huntress but the time has to be right…” She began
“We understand your position Khan Furey and we understand you cannot support us in the immediate term.” He explained exasperated, these warriors had presented themselves to Petra but they were desperate “but Khan this is a chance for us to hurt the Society and to give the people of our Clan’s Homeworld a chance against into the future.”
“You will be on your own” Petra warned but she could see the determination behind his eyes and she simply nodded her agreement. “Understood Star Commander, we’re in” she said giving Lyle her word of support.
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Missiles, autocannons and lasers flew across the battlefield as the Smoke Jaguars and Society forces engaged in the largest battle which had occurred on Huntress to date. Huntress was not a pretty world, it was a hard warm world which many found to be too humid, the closer one travelled to the equator, like most worlds, the more intolerable it got.
That’s what made this location the perfect one for a cache. These caches, known as Brian Caches after the name for the Star League Defence Force’s Castle Brian fortifications, had been built by all of the Clans as reserves and fall-back points where a Clan could reinforce their Toumans. The equipment would likely be old but in the right hands any weapon was deadly.
Petra Furey’s Shadow Cat ran across the battlefield firing one of the large lasers against an enemy BattleMech the laser burned across the Mech’s round torso and then the other laser at a ProtoMech, the blast was strong enough to put the two-legged min-Mech on its back. She then triggered her OmniMech’s jump jets sending the Shadow Cat into the air as it took off her streak equipped short range missile achieved a lock on a group of battle armoured troopers the six missiles flew from the OmniMech as it jumped. The missiles landed in and around the group of troopers as a second Smoke Jaguar BattleMech opened fire on them with its autocannon showering the area with fire standard Clan engagement protocols, one-on-one duels, had been abandoned before the battle had been joined neither the people from Huntress or Petra’s Smoke Jaguars were willing to give the respect of honourable combat. When her Shadow Cat landed it was like a furnace inside the forty-five-ton OmniMech but Petra pushed forward running her OmniMech and continuing to fire, her Jaguars needed her to fight until she couldn't and that was exactly what she needed to do.
From the other side of the battlefield Star Commander Lyle marched his Warhawk methodically across the battlefield engaging first with the paired particle cannons on the left arm into one target savaging a Society vehicle’s side armour melting the plating and the wheels mounted there. He then fired the second set of paired cannons mounted on the other arm targeting a BattleMech obliterating the Mech’s arm even as his target reeled from the attack another hit slammed into the BattleMech as a gauss rifle slug ravaged the BattleMech. Like his Khan the Warhawk’s cockpit was a furnace as Lyle marched into across the battlefield.
Explosions rocked the Khan’s OmniMech as she took fire from the Society units armour exploded on the Shadow Cat but Petra also noticed that her OmniMech’s systems were acting differently. “Jaguar Prime to all units, anyone else experiencing issues after being hit these stavag enemies, Quiaff?” She demanded as the Shadow Cat’s heat sinks suddenly spiked despite her OmniMech’s weapons not being fired.
“Aff Khan, it is after being hit by their missile systems” MechWarrior Tanya confirming what Petra believed to be the case, not only were these ATM systems more accurate than the standard missiles they also appeared to have multiple different ammunition types as well.
“The stavag ATMs” another warrior called out “another volley set my Mech on fire.”
“We will make them pay” Petra cursed and pay the Jaguars made them. Over the course for the next sixty minutes the Jaguars picked apart the Society forces destroying dozens of units securing the cache. Petra decided that every example of the so called Improved Advanced Tactical Missile (iATM) launcher along with every surviving missile for the launcher. Most of the cache turned out to be designs of Star League-era vintage ancient BattleMechs and vehicles compared to what was available to the Clans but still capable, she turned them all over to the fighters that were going to remain on Huntress. The cache itself could not be used as a base but the resources gained from it would allow the Smoke Jaguars to fight and survive for longer both on Huntress and in the Inner Sphere.
Elsewhere on Huntress the Nova Cat forces which had been contracted by the Smoke Jaguars kept the Society on edge with raids using their stealth equipped units. This netted the Nova Cats quite a bit of captured equipment and information. Finally, before evacuating Huntress the Smoke Jaguars entered Huntress vast Osis-Rhyde Natural Reserve and the captured ten adult smoke jaguars five males and five females breeding pairs but also animals that Petra Furey’s scientists could use as paternal pairs for prides of smoke jaguars in the Inner Sphere. With Huntress cut off from the other Homeworlds due to the destruction of the HPG nodes the Smoke Jaguars and Nova Cats finally left Huntress after nearly a week of causing havoc for the Society. Behind they left a resistance movement of warriors and civilians ready to oppose rule being forced on them again.
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Trial of Position
Odessa, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
13th March 3120
The Trial of Position was over the Hellbringer laid broken on the ground as Malvina of Clan Jade Falcon walked her ninety-five-ton Cygnus up to the broken Mech. The back-canted legs of the Cygnus were torn open after fighting its way through three opponents the armour was burned away. One of its ultra-type autocannon arms was completely missing while the other hung buckled and broken.
“This Trial of Position between warriors is open. Malvina of the Hazen sibko you have proven yourself to be a warrior, you have earned the rank of Star Captain…” The male voice said over the radio Malvina looked down at the final defeated MechWarrior and even as the spoke she raised the assault BattleMech’s foot and brought it down on the BattleMech’s cockpit crushing it under the weight of her Mech killing the warrior inside. Malvina was a warrior of Clan Jade Falcon now and until she died, so far she had done enough to become a Star Captain, and while she was a warrior she would not tolerate weakness. With the defeated MechWarrior dead, she stepped away from the wreck and walked back towards her base.
Second Round of Reprisal attacks
Glasgow Commonality, Capellan Confederation
20th March 3120
The Star League Defence Force, Armed Forces of the Federated Suns and the Free Worlds League military continue their reprisal strikes against the Capellan Confederation for their previous actions. In a series of heavy assaults, the Free Worlds League’s District of McKenna take control over the systems of Wazan and Chambo, while the Star League Defence Force moves into the Phact and Corey systems and the Federated Suns move into Raballa and Bora systems. Fighting is relatively light as the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces have all but abandoned the six systems preserving their military forces instead of attempting to resist the incoming forces.
Trial of Possession
Freedom, Clan Coyote Occupation Zone
27th March 3120
The Trial of Possession was a Clan term for a conflict over territory, technology and people when they had come to the Inner Sphere the term had been an alien one used to justify a fight, a battle or an invasion. While it was rare sometimes the Inner Sphere challenged the Clans to Trials of Possession, these were often ignored but not when the Inner Sphere force had the firepower to back it up. Following recent battles over the Freedom system between the Lyran Commonwealth, Star League Defence Force and mercenary commands and Clan Coyote hundreds of Inner Sphere warriors had been captured and were now held in camps on the world’s ravaged surface.
In a flash of light the WarShip Subtlety, a modified McKenna-class Battleship, entered the system and deployed several DropShips. For the last fifty years the vessel which acted as a training ship for mercenary commands in the Galatea system but today it had been deployed in its capacity as one of the most powerful WarShips ever designed to act as the muscle for the Wolf’s Dragoons mercenary command in its mission.
“This is Colonel Egizia Carucci of the Wolf’s Dragoons we are here to declare a Trial of Possession for the Inner Sphere prisoners held on Freedom.” The mercenary commander declared once her DropShip was clear from the Subtlety.
“Dezgra Mercenary traitors” was the only response that was initially sent it was a standard response by the Clans when facing mercenaries and especially the Wolf’s Dragoons.
“If we have to fight, we will fight our way onto Freedom and fight our way off of it. We will destroy as many of you Coyote pups as we can while we do it.” Carucci warned “we will do enough damage that the people of Freedom will fight for that exact cause in our name.” The message was defiant and angry but with the Subtlety’s weapons to back it up and the damage their units had taken when capturing Freedom, the Coyotes could not ignore them.
“What do you propose?”
“A limited battle, I have a team of twenty-five warriors they will fight your hand-picked unit in a Trial of Possession. You may choose how we fight and where. We will fight for the possession of all of your prisoners taken during the battle for Freedom.”
“Many of those were taken as Bondsmen.” The other warrior complained
“Any warrior captured as a Bondsman will be allowed the fight of freedom if they desire if, should my force win. They did not decide to be Clan warriors, they should have a choice should their side win. If we are victorious, I will demand that condition, if we fought you in open combat it is something that we would take by force.” She bargained even as the DropShips under Subtlety’s escort began their burn in system.
“We agree to your terms but with one condition, those warriors who have already begun their journey as Coyotes will remain in those positions, any who decide to remain with us can without exception.”
“Agreed” Carucci said deciding that it wasn’t worth fighting over people who had decided to embrace the Clan way of life.
“Then we will see you in four days, we are sending you a landing site, we will fight on the fifth day. I am an Elemental so we will fight in Battle Armour suits twenty-five of yours against twenty-five of ours.” The Coyote responded no doubt thinking that as Clansmen their Elementals would have an advantage over inner sphere battle armoured troopers but obviously forgetting that the Dragoons fielded plenty of Elemental suits of their own. They had also neglected to respect that they were facing the Seventh Kommando, one of the most experienced units in the entire mercenary brigade.
Five days later the two forces engaged each other on the plains of Freedom twenty-five battle armoured troopers on either side of the battle engaging each other in open combat. While the Seventh Kommando troopers of the Wolf’s Dragoons had many Elemental suits they also employed several Inner Sphere designed suits giving them options beyond that of the Elemental. The two sides fought with missiles, lasers, flamethrowers and gauss rifles followed by hand to hand close-quarters fighting. By the end of the battle eighteen of the Coyotes were dead and all of the other battle suits were disabled with their warriors injured on the Dragoon side sixteen of the warriors were dead and many of the surviving warriors were injured but they had held the field.
With the Coyotes agreeing to the terms of the Trial of Possession the Wolf’s Dragoon found almost four-hundred-and-fifty prisoners captured during the Battle for Freedom. Following their basic medical needs being taken care of the Dragoons escorted the survivors back to the Subtlety’s base system of Galatea and the Galatea Station which was based there, the Dragoons showing the Inner Sphere a victory.
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Royal Meeting, Throne Room
Centrella Palace, Crimson
Canopus, Magistracy of Canopus
1st April 3120
There were rapid clicks on the floor as a pair of leather boots marched its way into the Magestix Throne Room on the capital world of Canopus. The man that wore the uniform wore a pure white military cut suit with dozens of combat medallions across his chest he wore a purple slash which had a golden broch. Under his right arm he had a triangular hat while on his left had a sword hung from his belt, his while hair was immaculately combed. He stood at attention looking at the Magestix who sat on the gold and red throne in front of him speaking with another aide, the Magestix was dressed in a dark green dress. When she didn’t immediately take him on the man made a throat clearing noise leading to her gaze being turned towards him, the man moved uneasily on his feet for a moment but remained standing the Magestix went back to speaking to the other woman.
“Lord Simeon Simmerson of the Wisconsin system” he finally said before making the awful throat clearing noise again.
“Welcome to Canopus” the Magestix responded dismissing her other visitor.
“Thank you my dear, I come to you on a matter of great importance” he said Simmerson was in his seventies perhaps eighties but Inner Sphere medical science made him look ten years younger, Magestix Ilse Centrella was forty-seven years old and in no mood for a man of his ilk.
“How can I assist you?”
“It is my belief that Canopus” he said raising his arms to his side signifying the greater nation around them “is becoming more and more like the Succession States. The further we have pushed into the Inner Sphere the more we must adapt, the further our nation expands the longer our supply route.” He said making another throat clearing sound.
“How would you suggest ‘we’ do that?” She asked noticing his use of the term and repeating it.
“My suggestion would be that we set up Regional Centres of Authority to link Canopus to all regions of our nation.” He said clearing his throat another time, she did not want to spend too long speaking to him.
“You mean like the worlds that joined you when you became a part of the Magistracy of Canopus?” She asked she knew that the worlds nearest to the Wisconsin system relied heavily on each other for trade and defence.
“Exactly! HA! I’m glad you are aware of our efforts.” He said quite happy that she was aware, Ilse was far from being happy that one system had taken it upon themselves to declare authority but she was also aware that it was a growing concern within her civilian administrators.
“Yes, I thought you would be pleased which is why I have decided to devolve power to Wisconsin and allow it to remain at the heart of the Wisconsin Region” she said giving him his little prize “I have also decided that power will also be devolved to the Oriente Region which will have eleven systems, Guangzho Region of twelve worlds and Booker Region of twelve systems will follow suit.” She said explaining that Wisconsin would have the smallest piece of the devolution process. She could see the man’s face redden in anger but he remained silent. “Also, I have decided to recognise your defence force as a unit of the Magistracy of Canopus. It will be named the First Wisconsin Lancers and it will be responsible for the defence of your region.”
“Simmerson’s Own will be proud to be part of the Magistracy Armed Forces.” He responded clearing his throat again.
“Thank you, Lord Simmerson, for bringing this issue to my attention and for volunteering your unit for Magistracy duty our military commands will welcome another unit.” She said with a smile dismissing he man, he stood there at attention for several moments and then he turned and left marching across the marble flooring, he was annoyed that she had not given him all he wanted but he could work on it.
Demonstration, Council of the Clans
Andrey, Tukayyid
Independent Clan Space
14th April 3120
The Tri-Vid screen in front of the assembled Khans and Loremasters showed a Phoenix Hawk LAM flying into the frame as a fighter before converting into a BattleMech in mid air, its engines becoming the BattleMech’s jump jets as it came into a landing and stepped off camera firing its weapons. The Phoenix Hawk LAM was one of the original Land-Air-Mechs developed by the Star League Defence Force and the footage could have been taken from anywhere.
“This is the Phoenix Hawk IVC” Scientist Tualo said the fifty-year-old man could feel the anger emanating from the room, Land-Air-Mechs were banned within the Clans. “This design is based on the Star League Defence Force model of the same name but evolved with new technology to bring it into the modern era.”
“Why are you showing us a Stavag Land-Air-Mech?” Oathmaster Klick Lenardon of Clan Nova Cat asked angrily raising to his feet. Khan Canin Rosse was not present today and, as per the Council’s agreement the Oathmaster’s words were to be taken as if they were from the Clan’s Khan and the Oathmaster was to be respected as an equal with the Khans present. “The Founder banned them from our Toumans since our foundation. The Dezgra Inner Sphere has returned to use them but our Toumans remain pure…”
“We have been exploring their design, their construction and their capabilities since the Inner Sphere began using mass formations of Land-Air-Mechs…” Tualo began cutting off the large Elemental.
“We know their capabilities; they served the original SLDF” Khan Angela Bekker of the Rasalhague Dominion pointed out “we have also fought them on several occasions. Our warriors know how to fight them” she countered the Draconis Combine was known to use entire regiments of LAMs with their Special Naval Forces.
“Exactly” Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward said breaking in “they served the Great Father and they serve the new Star League Defence Force.” She said “now our Scientists and the Free Guilds on Tukayyid have created a weapon that we can all embrace…”
“NO!” Lenardon barked his huge Elemental frame still standing “these weapons are banned within the Clans; these weapons were outlawed by the Founder! They have no place within our Toumans.” He snapped staring at Sandra Ward his dark eyes blazing with anger “you have brought shame to your Clan and to your post, I challenge you Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward to a Circle of Equals and I call on this council to confirm that these weapons are banned and will remain banned forever!”
“I accept your challenge Oathmaster” Sandra Ward replied “when and where?” She demanded staring at the Oathmaster.
“Tomorrow, un-augmented in the main courtyard.” Lenardon boomed remaining standing.
“Fine, we will meet.” She agreed before turning towards the assembled leaders, she had no fear of facing her own mortality but she had already decided on her next step ignoring the anger of the large Elemental. “For now, you have all seen the demonstration model we now need additional resources and support to continue development and produce usable models.” Ward said “I call for a vote on the continued development of current test models of Land-Air-Mechs and to develop models which could be fielded by the Clan Toumans.”
“Neg!” Lenardon snapped angrily “warriors are bred to be MechWarriors or Fighter pilots not this Chalcas!” He said damning the project.
“The Rasalhague Dominion vote Aff” Angela Bekkar said if looks could have killed Lenardon would have killed the Ghost Bear leader where she stood.
“The Hell’s Horses also vote Aff” Loremaster Nathan De Laurel said “we have already developed a new type of Phenotype, the ProtoMech warrior which has been accepted into all of the Clans ranks, there is no reason we cannot adopt and adapt to another.”
“Clan Coyote agrees to this proposal” Loremaster Charles Koga said
“Clan Jade Falcon say Neg” Khan Jana Pryde of the Jade Falcons said from her table.
“Clan Wolf vote Aff” Khan Cade Kell of the Wolf Clan said briefly.
“The Sea Fox Khanates vote Aff”
“Clan Snow Raven also will vote Neg; we have enough fighters to maintain air superiority without resorting to the use of Land-Air-Mechs.”
“Clan Lynx also vote Aff” Khan Katrine Devalis answered finally.
“With Six votes for Aff to three for Neg the resolution is passed and development will continue.” Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward said looking at Klick Lenardon “regardless of our battle this council has spoken.”
“We shall see” he answered raising to his feet once more and marching from the chamber.
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The next day Oathmaster Klick Lenardon and Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward fought hand-to-hand in the courtyard of the Clan Council. While Sandra Ward was quick footed, she had her youth and fitness she was no match for the hulking Nova Cat Elemental. Despite his advanced age of fifty-nine years old Klick Lenardon landed several crippling blows on the smaller woman shattering several of her bones as he methodically took her apart. Finally, the Nova Cat warrior smashed her skull under his giant boot.
Following the battle the Nova Cats bid for Lenardon as the victor in the battle to be the new Loremaster of the Clans but the other Council members instead vote Loremaster Chealsea Drummond of the Lynx Clan to the post. The appointment is seen as an attack on the Nova Cats as Drummond was born a Nova Cat but joined the new Clan when the Lynx formed. With the Lynx supporting the LAM Development resolution at least of now the Scientific Caste and Free Guilds of Tukayyid would continue now in public and with additional resources. To aid these efforts new Loremaster of the Clans Chealsea Drummond as her first she forms the Phoenix Cluster, named for the test Phoenix Hawk LAM which had been built, as a test unit for the newly developed LAMs. At the same time as this resolution, she also cuts orders for one of the Ebon Guard Clusters to be deployed to Clan Lynx space for “combat experience.”
Defence Line
Engadine, Inarcs Theatre
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
20th April 3120
A combined-arms battalion from the Fifth Coventry Cuirassiers had been deployed to defend Engadine from the Stone Spirit raiding party and things were not going well. The Stone Spirits were turning the Cuirassiers flank with their superior numbers and firepower. Just as the Fifth’s lines appeared to be buckling a green painted Archer BattleMech advanced on the enemy firing at all comers, somehow weapons fire targeted on the Archer left the BattleMech unphased, especially particle cannons which appeared to have little to no effect.
The Archer which on closer inspection by those at the battle was painted in multiple shades of green making it's armour appear almost plated like an ancient knight continued forward breaking Stone Spirit BattleMech after BattleMech with its unique mix of weapons first the Archer engaged its enemies with two five-tube Long Range Missile racks, as it closed four extended range medium lasers (one mounted the head, one in the torso and another at the top of the BattleMech’s thighs.) Finally, within close range the BattleMech opened fire with four six-tube short range missile racks. The seventeen missile tubes and four lasers burned multiple targets at once causing uncertainty in the ranks of the Stone Spirits allowing the Cuirassiers and militia to rally and force them from the world.
Following the battle the enigmatic pilot of the Archer refuses to formally identify himself, nor admit to being part of any particular unit. The only payment the Green Knight takes from battle is salvage enough to repair his Archer before leaving the planet on the next civilian transport. Across the Lyran periphery the legend of the Green Knight begins.
Diplomatic Meeting
Samantha, Taurian Diplomatic Consulate
Taurus, Taurian Concordat
27th April 3120
While the Taurians had diplomatic consulates which belonged to the Federated Suns, the Magistracy of Canopus, the Fronc Reaches, the Capellan Confederation and Free Worlds League on Taurus they also had a separate Consulate for independent visitors who wished an audience. In today’s case Star Captain Kev Rosse of Clan Nova Cat was one such visitor meeting with Marshal Carol Trenouth once more. The two sat in comfortable padded arm chairs and sipped a fruity green-yellow coloured drink from one of the Taurian Concordat’s outlaying systems.
“It is not that we see you as dishonourable…” Kev Rosse was trying to explain. He saw Trenouth begin to laugh “…we do not see you dishonourable but your tactics and the weapons you use are what my Clan has a problem with… your use of… nuclear weapons…”
“We must!” She snapped angrily, she was nearly twice Rosse’s age and had seen what their neighbours could do. “The Star League Defence Force had dozens of WarShips and ground troops, the Federated Suns and Nova Cats who have fought us have the same. The Taurian people have less systems, less technology and less warriors.”
“But your position is exactly why you should adopt Clan duelling rules…” Rosse suggested
“Bah! We cannot adopt such practices they are alien to us and our enemies other than the Nova Cats will not respect them.” She countered
“Fighting Trials against your enemies will improve your peoples self respect and conserve your numbers.” Rosse pointed out
“That is correct but your people have your WarShip fleet to back up that practice. The only thing that we have that can counter a WarShip fleet is nuclear weaponry.” She explained “we need ground forces that match an enemy AND warheads that can keep WarShips at a distance.”
“Your nation is at a disadvantage” Rosse admitted “but your commanders must learn that just because a WarShip is present it does not mean that it is always a threat…”
“WarShips are hammers which are used to batter nails into the ground. They are weapons and they are always a threat.” She countered
“But if you engaged your enemies honourably then perhaps those weapons nor your own weapons ever need to be used.”
“You Clanners have an interesting outlook” she said laughing lightly “if only you could make the Federated Suns understand that.”
“Perhaps they will in time” Kev Rosse said finishing his drink “they need to learn the correct lessons first, when losses mount a different approach is needed. The Clans learned this in our earliest years, we realised that we needed to make the most out of what we had and we had to conserve what we made and make it go further.” He explained “for now, I must check on our traders I am sure they are having equally interesting discussions if perhaps less philosophical ones” he said half joking as he raised from his chair “Marshal Trenouth I have arranged for two Donar Attack Helicopters to be transferred to Taurian Concordat ownership.”
“That is quite a gift” she admitted as she rose from her chair impressed but also suspicious “the SM1s donated previously have impressed within our military, Clan technology has taken the Saladin Hovertank and improved on it in every way.”
“These are but a token of our appreciation for your willingness to listen to our Clan and accept our attempt to make amends for our previous transgressions against your nation.” He said bowing slightly.
“I am sure we make the best use out of these donations as we can” she answered offering him her hand which Kev Rosse met with his own and they shook. “Until our next meeting” she said nodding her head respectfully Kev Rosse saluted in return by crossing his right fist across his chest in the Clan-styled salute.
Note: Yes the Green Knight's Archer is Agincourt with a couple of modifications (I may post)
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The Archer Agincourt (Green Knight) BattleMech from the Story
https://obtforum.com/forum/techlab/archer-agincourt-green-knight-au-with-thanks/ (https://obtforum.com/forum/techlab/archer-agincourt-green-knight-au-with-thanks/)
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Great to see you back at it here again DC!
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Trial of Possession
Lucianca, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
7th May 3120
During a Trial of Possession for the system of Lucianca the Jade Falcons are defeated by Clan Hell’s Horses armoured units. During the battle the Jade Falcons refuse to fight duels with vehicles allowing the Hell’s Horses to employ their superior numbers of armoured vehicles, which were dismissed by the Jade Falcons as inferior weapons of war, they surround and bombard the Jade Falcon units while moving constantly. Unable to counter the Hell’s Horses superior numbers the Jade Falcons fight their way our of the Hell’s Horses attack and retreat from the system. A member of the Jade Falcons unit is young MechWarrior Malvina who is heavily affected by the witnessing of the other Clan’s so-called Mongol Doctrine.
After Race Interview, Second Race of Noisiel
Noisiel, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
14th May 3120
“I’m Irina Badurina of the Solaris Gazette and I’m here with Jonnie Mjalby on Noisiel following the end of this year’s Race of Noisiel.” The presenter a young woman with strawberry-blonde shoulder length hair, she wore a three-quarter length green dress. “Jonnie congratulations on your third-place finish here on Noisiel, may I ask why you chose to compete here instead of on Solaris?” She asked
“Thank you, Irina, it was a tough competition they have created a challenging course here.”
“All of the competitors clearly found it difficult three of the aircraft have been destroyed attempting to complete the course in time.”
“We all are trying our best” Jonnie admitted “it’s part of the challenge taking your aircraft as close to the ground and to obstacles as possible to shave off some time.”
“Which of course leads to my next question” she said smiling broadly glad he had brought up the aircraft “you chose a strange aircraft for your flight here. Normally you pilot a Protector Aircraft but you chose differently, could you let us know why you made that choice?”
“I flew a N-1945 Mustang here because its built here on Noisiel. Duke Alextep is quite inventive when he looks for entertainment. They brought back a design that is over eleven hundred years old specifically for the race of Noisiel, I thought why not pay a little homage to their efforts and reward them for their efforts in constructing these aircraft and the course.” He said expanding on the ancient design which was based on the P-45 Mustang an aircraft built during the Second World War on ancient Terra. He did not mention that Duke Alextep had also paid him handsomely to use the design instead of a modern aircraft and promised that he could keep the ultra-light aircraft following the race. “Honestly, I would love to fly on both Noisiel and Solaris but the races happen too closely together unfortunately.”
Clan Border Fighting
Wolf Empire
18th May 3120
The Star League Defence Force and the Protectorate Guard units strike at Miaplacidus, Avellaneda and Abaden finding that Clan Wolf forces have abandoned all three systems, at the same time invasions and conquests of Angel II and Oceana are confirmed as is fighting on the world of Marik, ancestral home of the Marik family. Although well-fortified Marik is ill prepared for the battle-hardened warriors from Miaplacidus, Avellaneda and Abaden falling back on it along with their WarShip support. Within days of the Wolf landing the world’s fate is decided with Free Worlds League, mercenary and SLDF forces streaming off the world in retreat, four WarShips are left broken in the system by the Wolf onslaught, the MS Mordred, an Eagle-class Frigate, the MS Triton, an Agamemnon-class Destroyer, the MS Corrine Marik, a Venturer-class Light Cruiser, and the SLS Pathfinder, an Otey-class Battleship. Six Wolf WarShips remain in the system all in various damaged states.
In the aftermath of the battle for Marik the Fifth Marik Legionaries absorb the survivors of the Fifth Marik Protectors Regiment after both take heavy damage on the world. There is a minor outcry in the Parliament on Atreus as the Protectors regiments were formed as a force answerable to Atreus and not the member Districts however as the Protectors command structure is non-existant there is little chance of reforming the unit which fought weakly in battle against Clan Wolf, instead it is allowed to die quietly. Further questions are raised by the Parliament over the Star League Protectorate’s claim over Miaplacidus, Avellaneda and Abaden, all of which were once Free Worlds League systems however the SLDF bled for the worlds and as is pointed out by more than one member of Parliament “Ownership is nine tenths of the law.”
Elsewhere Lyran Commonwealth forces engage Clan Coyote on New Wessex and Yedi Posterior in the Clan Occupation Zones defeating the Coyotes on New Wessex. While the Lyrans are successful on New Wessex they fail on Yedi Posterior. Unable to hold an isolated system they are forces to retreat before being overwhelmed. Before the Coyotes can move in the Rasalhague Dominion move troops onto New Wessex securing it and the corridor of space which had led toward Vega. The reaction by the population on New Wessex surprises many observers, following the return of the Rasalhague Dominion their troops are welcomed with parades through the streets of every major settlement. This reaction shows how Clan indoctrination can take over a populous.
Capellan Confederation/Star League Peace Agreement
Terra, Star League Protectorate
22nd May 3120
Lights lit up to show Star League Commanding-General Victor Focht standing beside the Star League Ambassadors to both the Capellan Confederation and the Magistracy of Canopus. Victor Focht stood at the microphone and spoke first “Ladies and Gentlemen of the Inner Sphere and of the nearby periphery today I can announce at a Cease Fire to the Hostilities between the Star League Alliance and the Capallan Confederation Alliance.” He said bringing in the Star League, Free Worlds League and Federated Suns on his allied side against the Capellan Confederation and Magistracy of Canopus on the other.
“What started with heinous acts of violent and the use of orbital bombardment by Capellan Confederation will end in peace. In the interim the Magistracy of Canopus government will take stewardship over the systems of Fletcher, Calloway, Las Halles and Carbonis. They will continue humanitarian aid efforts and allow access to the worlds in these systems to both Free Worlds League and Star League observers and agencies in an effort to locate survivors.” He said glancing at each of the Ambassadors but allowing neither to take the stand “failure to allow observers and aid agencies into these systems will see an immediate end to the Cease Fire and a forfeit to control over all four systems.” He said “contrary to the words spread by some the Star League was created, Star League of the Camerons, for the protection of humanity. We want peace but know this should you bring war to our borders we will ensure that you pay a heavy price.”
Unreported at Victor Focht’s press conference is that the Capellan Confederation will continue to benefit from the use of the shipyards in the Fletcher system while the Free Worlds League will have full access to the worlds in the systems and be allowed to take whatever resources which have not already been tapped by the occupiers. In all the agreement is little more than a complete surrender by the Capellan Confederation.
With ownership over four more systems and systems which are deeper into the Inner Sphere than the nation has ever controlled previously many experts begin to take an even closer look at the Magistracy of Canopus than before. The so-called Periphery nation now stretches as deep into the Inner Sphere as many of the Clan nations, while they control far less ground forces or naval vessels than most other nations the strides, they have taken have impressed many observers. The territory controlled by the Magistracy also begins a new debate in the Inner Sphere, does territory relate to a nation’s military strength or is it defined by something else. Many point to the recent changing of the hands of the system of New Wessex which after being “liberated” by Lyran Commonwealth forces from the Coyotes quickly welcomed the Rasalhague Dominion back with open arms and celebrations.
Command Complex, Sub Complex 4
Buena, Buena Archonette
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
30th May 3120
Deep underground on Buena Archonette Kelly Varnay could communicate with any world within the Buena Archonette and the wider Lyran Commonwealth, it was a seat of power which rivalled any other within the nation.
“Archonnette Varnay!” An aide called rushing over to the command table it was his eyes which caught her eye they were full of fear. “Unknown elements have breached outer defences and are proceeding through the upper levels!” He said rapidly clearly panicking.
“Who’s forces?” She demanded there had been no planetary invasion, Buena was at peace the nearby Stone Foxes were giving her nation the peace it needed.
“Unknown Archonnette” he said as weapons fire was heard along with explosions which were getting ever closer. Elsewhere in the command room weapons were being distributed among the personnel present. Even as Kelly Varnay readied her rifle the main doors exploded open, she recoiled at the explosion but quickly readied herself for who was entering. She did not understand how the facility had fallen so quickly there were hundreds of personnel between the surface and her current level but the invaders had made their way through the facility in less than thirty minutes…
Suddenly through the broken doors and smoke stepped two Infiltrator III Battle Armour suits their weapons raised but no fire coming from them. On the chest there was the symbol of the Lyran Commonwealth. “HOLD FIRE!” Varnay commanded still holding her rifle aiming at the suits but not firing her weapon “what is the meaning of this?” She demanded holding her position she realised that the invaders had made such quick progress because only her strongest supporters had resisted the attack.
From behind the two Infiltrator suits stepped Archon Jessica Steiner, the leader of the Lyran Commonwealth, she wore a full set of army BDU (Battle Dress Uniform) and carried a rifle which was presently lowered. “This is the end of you Kelly Varnay!” She boomed angrily “By my order you are all ordered to stand down and face appropriate judgement at a Military Tribunal.” She said speaking to the entire room “some of you may not be aware but the Archonette has made weapons deals with the Cirincus Federation.”
“To weaken the Stone Spirits!” Varnay seethed angrily
“Dealing weapons and technology to an enemy state of the Lyran Commonwealth is treason and you will be judged as such” Steiner said meeting Varnay’s anger with her own. “You have done some fantastic work here on Buena but did you really think that Tharkad was not watching?” She asked incredulously “our duty is to protect the Steiner people not deal with our enemies!”
“My duty is to Buena and…” Varnay said gripping her rifle tightly one movement and she could cut down the Lyran Archon.
“YOUR DUTY IS TO ME!” Steiner said angrily with the raising emotions both Infiltrator III suits raised their own weapons and took a step forward partially obscuring the Archon behind them another pair of suits and dozens of conventional infantry troopers stood ready to enter. “STAND DOWN NOW!” She ordered looking around the room “any of you who walk out now will be dealt with leniently, anyone who stays…” she stooped allowing them to figure it out themselves. Several people from Varnay’s side moved but the Archonette spoke before something else happened.
“It is I who will stand down” she said throwing her rifle down “no-one else needs to die, everyone guns down!” She said as conventional troops rushed into the room two rushing towards her and placing plastic cuffs around her wrists. Archon Steiner stepped up to her “I did this for the Commonwealth Archon, turn our enemies against each other, weaken them both.”
“You did it for yourself, ambition has always been the weakness of your family, grabbing for power that is not yours” she replied referencing her father’s efforts to oust the Davion family from the Federated Suns. “There was a right way for you to accomplish what you wanted, but you chose to do it your way. Build a powerbase which could be seen as one against the Lyran State and against my family, I won’t allow history to repeat itself.” She said glancing at guards “remove them all, I want the ground cleared.” She commanded, Jessica had hated having to act against Buena and Varnay in such a dramatic and final way but she would not take disobedience from someone in a place of power like Kelly Varnay had been.
Elsewhere within the Archonette Lyran Special Forces were capturing or taking out Varnay’s strongest supporters putting an end to the region’s disobedience, already she had ordered that all weapons sales to the Cirincus Federation to end immediately. Some may have seen her actions as extreme, Varnay had sold weapons to an enemy state it wasn’t like she was openly planning on attacking the Commonwealth or attempting to overthrow House Steiner but her actions were clear disobedience and the resistance her forces had encountered on Buena proved to Jessica Steiner that the Archonette was no fan of the Tharkad leadership. Out of the hundreds of personnel working in this complex only a few dozen had attempted to resist her but that was possibly a drop in the ocean compared to what could have happened had Varnay knew the Archon was coming.
Things she could not chance happening. Leaning on the command table the Archon looked around at the mostly empty room “If” she whispered “what we do because of it” she muttered quietly thinking deeply.
If she had come here openly and Varnay had openly resisted.
If she had been forced to annihilate the defenders of Buena.
If her people had refused or failed to defeat those that defied her.
If that resistance caused her enemies inside and outside of the Lyran Commonwealth to act.
Not today, not under my watch
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Good to see a new update DC.
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Good to see a new update DC.
Here, here!
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Updates won't stop... Just slower... Also open to anyone but if there are any topics, factions, areas etc you're interested in seeing covered in this AU the canvas is open 3120 is pretty full and the next big events affect several years but there's always space for more stuff
I may actually split off another thread
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Forty-seventh Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Independent Clan Space
4th June 3120
On the sands of the Star League Stadium on Solaris VII MechWarrior Nikhail Jade Falcon of the Clan Jade Falcon wins the competition marking the fifth time in forty-five successful Star League Games that a warrior from the Clan had successfully won the competition. With the Eighteenth Games cancelled by armed conflict and the Twentieth interrupted by a terrorist attack. The victory also marks the second time a MechWarrior piloting a Gryfalcon BattleMech, this one a different variant than previously, has won the competition. During the conflict regular season competitor MechWarrior Vlad Carlyle enters piloting a modified Templar OmniMech coming in fourth place.
An ever presence on the world of Solaris Star League Intelligence agents look into MechWarrior Nikhail finding he is a warrior with no history in the Jade Falcon Clan. Although Solaris has a heavy Clan military presence and is administered by the Clan’s Free Guilds and the Loremaster of the Clans the SLIC has several assets on the world and they find that every member of Clan Jade Falcon who entered the competition on Solaris was an ungraduated Warrior of their Clan and the Falcons had used it as a testing ground. They find that the warrior were all from the same gene-house and after analysing their fighting styles note that these Jade Falcon warriors ignore the Clan disdain for physical attack and combined fire.
During the competition executives of the Solaris Racing League meet with representatives of the Niosiel Racing Competition regarding a multi-planet race using conventional aircraft involving both systems racing circuits.
Nadir Jump Point, Bulwark (Halcyon-class Cruiser)
Staplefield, Lynx Occupation Zone
14th June 3120
The Hell’s Horses WarShip Bulwark had jumped into the Staplefield system which was controlled by Clan Lynx where they had been challenged by Lynx sentry craft. Still building a Touman the Lynx had lacked sufficient WarShips or DropShips to patrol every system so instead the challengers two modified TIG-15 Tigress Gunships. Not looking for an armed conflict with the Lynx Clan for no reason the crew of the Bulwark had invited the gunships onboard to discuss free passage.
Boarding the Bulwark the four-person crew of one of the Tigress Gunships were surprised to come across Khan Teresia Cooper. “Gentlemen welcome onboard the Bulwark; I am Khan Teresia Cooper”
“Star Commander Lexington, Guardian Point of the Staplefield system” the older man said he was easily in his fifties. “Why are you in our system?”
“Passing through to strike at the Inner Sphere.” Cooper answered
“We were not informed of your arrival; your presence will be reported to Clan Lynx authorities.”
“Of course, it will” Cooper responded “however our strike is time sensitive.”
“Orders are orders” Lexington responded
“I completely agree and will make our apologies with Isorla to answer for your challenge?” She suggested seeing the confused look on the Lexington’s face “you challenged our WarShip and you are correct we have no right to be in this system, however I do not have time to waste waiting for your Clan to clear us to travel and I do not want to kill you. So, I will offer you Isorla for your challenge and permission for us to move on. You will pass our Isorla onto your Clan as an answer to your superiors why you let us pass.” She suggested, she could see wheels turning behind the man’s eyes “it is a victory against insurmountable odds Star Commander, take the win allow us on our way.”
“What is your offer of Isorla?”
“We will transfer a single point of Gnome Battle Armour suits to your craft as payment to Clan Lynx for your victory.” She said suggesting to the man that he was coming out ahead, she did not need her Clan being delayed.
“I agree to your Isorla terms Khan Cooper.” He said saluting her by crossing his fist across his chest the Hell’s Horses Khan responded by saluting the Lynx warrior with the same salute before turning and leaving them at the docking bay. Within an hour the five Battle Armour suits had been transferred to the Tigress and the Bulwark quickly made its way out of the system.
Anti-Government Protest
Rudigen, Altenmarket Province
Rasalhague Dominion
22nd June 3120
The balance sought by Clan Ghost Bear and the former Free Rasalhague Republic had been a delicate one for decades with the Rasalhague Dominion government monitoring and shutting down protests quickly however every now and then a public protest flared up like the one which was currently being staged in the capital city on Rudigen. While it was peaceful the several hundred protestors marching through the city calling for the end of Ghost Bear “domination” over the population.
Angela Bekker, Khan of the Ghost Bears and leader of the Rasalhague Dominion, stood with the Administrator of Rudigen City on a balcony overlooking the protestors as they assembled in the square opposite the City’s main administration block. The Watch had informed her of the protest and their inability to stop it so she had attended herself, now she would address the crowd. The Khan did not like addressing the freeborn population but she saw little other way of calming them and making them understand that the Strength and Prowess of the Ghost Bears was all that was giving them their freedom and that some freedoms needed to be sacrificed.
As she stepped out into public view on the balcony several shots rang out the first two struck Administrator Kate in the chest while the following three shots struck Bekker in the shoulder and the side of the head both of them went down immediately with large pools of blood. With the sound of gunshots and the imposing Elemental Guards watching them, the gathered crowd panicked which was intensified as the Ghost Bear Elementals based around the administration block fired tear gas into the crowd to disperse them, the tear gas and panic caused the crowd to stampede in multiple directions causing dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries.
With the use of tear gas against civilians and the injuries from the stampeding protestors more aggressive factions of the population come out turning the whole situation a lot worse with what amounted to a riot. Cached weapons which had been hidden for decades were brought out and turned on the Ghost Bears as those employing them hoped for the violence to spread beyond Rudigen City and beyond the system of Rudigen. With the factions lashing out and destroying everything in their path the Lassenerra saw no option other than to bring heavier weapons in to quell the violence, regardless of the rationale adding more weapons could do only one thing.
Lassenerra’s order unleashed a wave of violence on Rudigen City which had not been seen since the early days of Clan rule on the world with points of Ghost Bear infantry and Battle Armour moving rapidly through the city stopping rioting citizens with levels of violence only a military force could match. And matched they were as Planetary Garrison Clusters manned by freeborns who had been born on Rudigen as part of the Rasalhague Dominion’s attempt for worlds to be completely capable of self-defence mobilised into Rudigen City and forced Lassenerra’s troops to pull back to their staging base. While the Garrison Clusters were under the saKhan’s command they had defied orders which had held them in their bases and they had moved to defend the city.
As dawn broke news passed that Angela Bekker had died of her wounds and the people of Rudigen braced for more violence this time against Lassenerra’s troops and the garrison clusters which had remained in the city all night maintaining order but it never came. The troops had been preparing for operations but they had not been needed as one person stood up and halted any further movement Planetary Administrator David Bekker former saKhan of the Rasalhague Dominion and now the leader of the world. “We are Ghost Bears, we are family, we do not bring war to our own people. This is not our way, this has never been our way, I will not allow it to ever be our way. We built this Dominion with the people of Rasalhague, we will not tear it down.” He had said while standing completely unarmed in front of the military base which saKhan Fulk Lassenerra was based within, while David Bekker had no standing within the Touman his words carried weight and none of them truly wished to bring conflict upon their own people. With the Garrison Clusters maintaining peace in the City Lassenerra called for all of his troops to stand down as well.
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Good stuff DC!!
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Trade Mission
Victoria, Victoria Commonality
Capellan Confederation
3rd July 3120
In what was essentially an ambassadorial role Star Captain Kev Rosse and the Nova Cat trading party had joined Taurian Concordat traders on a trip into the Capellan Confederation. Rosse had trusted the Taurians “vouching” for his crew would gain them access to Capellan space without an official invite and it had worked. Now the Nova Cat Merchant Caste members were making trades with locals while Kev Rosse oversaw them.
“Star Captain Kevin Rosse?” A woman of Chinese descent asked coming up beside him she had black hair and wore a purple V-necked top, she was easily fifteen-to-twenty years older than Rosse.
“Kev Rosse” he corrected her “the scientists decided I did not need the ‘in’” he joked, during his time with the peoples of the Inner Sphere he had begun to realise that they appreciated a little humour during their encounters.
“Of course,” she said “are we able to speak privately?” She asked indicating for them to move off.
“Aff, they seem to have things in hand” he agreed following her.
“You are quite young for a Captain” she suggested as they walked together, she led him away from the trading market and down towards a footpath that walked along a river.
“Those that lack rank at my age are heading towards the garrison units. I have my rank and my name.”
“Kev?” She asked looking back at him
“Neg, my bloodname Rosse won through combat.” He explained
“Ah yes, I was told that your people fought over names, otherwise you have no name.” She said with a smile.
“We have the name of our Clan” he said defensively “but our names have meaning, they have honour and a link to our past.”
“Much like my name does I am Madam Marie-Li DeMichele-Hong, but please call me Marie.” She said seeing his interest “my parents were from the Capellan Confederation and from the Federated Suns originally I inherited names from both sides of my heritage.” She explained “my name carries my history, my heritage and my honour.”
“Aff, it does but you were one of perhaps a couple of children?” He asked she nodded giving little away. “I was a child of thirty born in my geneclass to the same geneparents. Two of us have won the right for our names to continue the Rosse name.” He explained “while we do not have the same connection to our parents as freeborns have it is our honour to carry our Bloodnames.”
“So many of your words are different from ours.” She revelled talking to them as they walked along the path, he was unsure how far they had walked.
“Which is one of the reasons behind our interest in making connections with the Taurians and your people.”
“It is a little afront to us that you approached the Taurians before the Capellan people.” Marie explained
“Aff, but would you have welcomed us with open arms Quineg?”
“Probably not” she admitted the Capellans had little experience dealing with the Clans and would very likely have been hostile especially one who was known to have links to the Federated Suns. It was one of the reasons she had drawn this duty as some of her Maskirovika commanders believed her Federated Suns mixed lineage would set her up well with the “so what is Clan Nova Cat looking for from this new relationship?”
“Fair trade between our peoples” he suggested but saw her face twist “we know it will not happen overnight but we are willing to work with you if you are willing to work with us…”
“Perhaps we can work on something” she admitted “in fact your arrival here is quite fortunate” she said stopping walking turning to face him. “The Capellan Confederation is looking for industrial air and water purifiers. We could re-tool a industrial centre to produce these but if Clan Nova Cat were willing to trade them to us then that could be a step in the right direction.”
“That is a possibility, although they will be of Star League vintage that is not a technology the Clans have ever invested much thought in.” He warned her
“Even Star League-era equipment will probably match what we could produce ourselves. What would you be looking for in return?”
“There are things we cannot produce ourselves. Certain compounds that a nation with a larger industrial base would be better suited to produce and things that you will have more experience than us constructing from scratch.” He explained
“The more cryptic you be Star Captain the harder it is for me to say yes or no to.”
“One specific area we are looking at is for is that of Stealth Armour…”
“Straight for the throat, you Clansmen don’t beat about the bush.”
“Neg, no games, just honesty. While our new partnership does not by any means hinge on your decision to provide us with such armour it is a preferred trading target for us.” He admitted
“I can try to fulfil that request and if we are unable, we will provide appropriate compensation for what you produce. Perhaps if you were able to produce two of our purifying units and we saw them in operation we could trade something other than military equipment in return and then we could move forward with other trades as more were produced would that be acceptable?”
“Aff, I think it would work for us. I will discuss with our leadership once I return home. In the meantime, to prove our commitment to peaceful and fair trade I have ordered a Pack Hunter BattleMech offloaded from our DropShip and transferred to Capellan control.”
“You talk about peaceful and fair trade and you start by providing us with a BattleMech?” She asked laughing a little “how very Clan of you.” How the relationship between the Capellans and the Nova Cats went was anyone’s guess but so far Marie saw benefits to working with the Nova Cats.
Negotiations
Coromodir, Cordia City
Aurigan Collective, Periphery
11th July 3120
The three VTOLs flew over Cordia City which basked in the late afternoon sun, Cordia City was mostly low built buildings and it was dominated by the massive castle situated in the middle. Two of the aircraft were Mantis Combat VTOLs painted in the brown and red camouflage of the Aurigan Collective while the centre craft was a green painted Cobra Transport VTOL with the insignia of the Star League Defence Force. The three craft orbited around the city a couple of times before the two Mantis pulled up and away from the Cobra leaving it alone. The transport craft moved in on the castle at the centre of Cordia City and came into landing on the guarded pad. Unlike the two Mantis VTOLs which had traditional propellers on top and at the back of the craft but the Cobra was more like a convention plane it had two jet engines situated in the middle of aircraft wings either side of the craft. At the rear of the ship a ramp lowered and out walked a man with peppered grey and black hair with a matching beard and a business suit at his side he carried a small box. Behind him two green camouflaged soldiers stepped out of the DropShip each carried rifles at shoulder rest. The two troopers fell into step behind the suited male as they walked away from the landing pad and down some steps to a lower level where they were met by brown and green uniformed soldiers these escorted them inside.
Inside the Castle they were escorted to the throne room High Lady Kamea Arano II sat on the throne waiting for him she was dressed beautifully in a red and black dress. “High Lady Arano, thank you for seeing me. A gift from the Commanding-General” he said handing the box to one of Arano’s aides “a bearskin hat and scarf, he understands that winter is coming to Coromodir.”
“Ambassador Aitkin, welcome back to Coromodir” she greeted him “thank you for the gift. Shall we get to business?”
“Of course, I am here to request access to the facility you have discovered on Artu. We would like to investigate it, potentially refurbish it and use it as a base of operations.”
“It is quite an impressive facility” she said
“Yes, it is and of Star League vintage.”
“A past Star League.” She reminded him “we have reoccupied the facility and are in the process of refurbishing the gear present.”
“The Commanding-General is willing for the Aurigan Collective to keep all of the contents of the base, and maintain a presence alongside our own.” He suggested “with your permission we will refurbish the base and operate it, we will of course support the Aurigan Collective in shoring up security and obviously our presence will require a steady supply line which will bring more trade.”
“Those would all be welcome, but we would require one further step.”
“Which would be?”
“Support in re-establishing Project Rook.” She suggested
“That is a very large ask High Lady Arano.”
“I’m not convinced given the size of the SLDF and the resources you have available. The Aurigan Collective does not have the resources of the SLDF, nor of our neighbours. We do not expect an attack today, we do not expect an attack tomorrow but an attack could come. Rook would guard against that.”
“We could work towards that Lady Arano.” He agreed “but to give the Aurigan Collective that we would need a stronger base behind our control over the facility on Artu. We would likely need the full control over that world, to use it as a base to support what you will require from us.”
“Artu is a frozen rock with a small population. Should any of them wish to leave the SLDF will have to facilitate their move and support their new living place.”
“Agreed we can do that” he admitted he knew that Artu had a population in the low thousands even if they wall wanted to move out of the Aurigan Collective and to the Star League Protectorate, hell Terra itself, the SLDF could do it without a thought. According to their initial analysis 90% of the population stayed nowhere near the facility anyway and they shouldn’t be a problem. To keep Arano happy he would ensure that every family was visited independently and given options to stay and be supported or to move anywhere they wanted to go.
Stand-off
San Bardo Racing Circuit
Southern Continent, Solaris VII
20th July 3120
As the crowds arrived at San Bardo Racing Circuit outside BattleMechs from six separate BattleMech Stables stand opposite a star of Clan Wolf BattleMechs. Neither of the sets of warriors are involved in the racing but the tensions on Solaris are bubbling over as the Stables are looking for ways to expand and the Wolf Garrison on the world refuse further expansion.
Diplomacy wins over rather than open combat with the Solaris Stables instead Clan Wolf agrees to hold annual Trials of Propagation. In those Trials the Stables will be allowed to increase their size with a win against the Wolf Garrison to a maximum strength of ten BattleMechs however should they fail then the number of Mechs they will be allowed to own will be reduced. Should a stable be reduced to less than a single active BattleMech their remaining assets and supplies will be seized by Clan Wolf. For the benefit of fairness SLDF observers will be allowed into every Trial of Propagation as the balancing act on Solaris continues.
CIC, Bulwark (Halcyon-class Cruiser)
High Orbit, Irece,
Irece Prefecture, Draconis Combine
27th July 3120
In a flash of light the Halcyon-class vessel Bulwark arrived near the planet of Irece, inside the Draconis Combine, at a pirate point. “Status” Star Admiral Seidman, the commander of the vessel, called out from his position in the middle of the round room which was dominated by the tactical holo-tank in the centre of the room.
“Sir, we have a Kyushu II-class Frigate breaking orbit turning in our direction.” One of the sensor operators reported.
“Very good, Deploy DropShips and fighters to the Planet we will cover them.” He said, their primary duty here was to escort the Khan to the planet’s surface where the actual mission would take place. “Prime Gun crew you are clear to engage with Reaper.” He commanded looking over at the two operators on his right side, the Bulwark had recently been refitted with a Repeating Naval Gauss Rifle or Reaper as the crew had begun to call it, along with the main gun changes multiple secondary arrays of hyper assault gauss rifles and advanced tactical missiles had been added to the starship essentially creating a new version of the Halcyon.
“Aye sir, clear to engage with Reaper, targeting helm adjust course two degrees to port.” One of the gunners said “engaging with Reaper” he replied the weapon fired three light naval gauss slugs in a single volley. The three gauss slugs crossed the space between the two targets rapidly, the first slammed into the nose of the turning Frigate while the second bored down the side of the ship tearing into the armour. The third slug missed the target completely.
“Not good” Seidman said glancing at them “secondary crew take firing control over” he commanded as the Kyushu II engaged them with Naval Lasers striking the Bulwark’s nose. “Damage control teams to stations.” He called into the ship’s intercom activating controls on the holo-table in the centre of the room.
“Secondary’s have target” one of the other set of gunners replied, “we have target engaging with Reaper, firing” she said again the Bulwark fired three shots from its forward weapon this time two struck the nose of the ship and the third tore down the side of the ship.
“Better Secondary Crew you have gunnery duties for remains of engagement…”
“I declare a Circle of Equals!” One of the crew called out angrily standing at his post.
“Agreed” one of the other gunners replied not moving from his station “firing Reaper on enemy target!”
“You will fight in a Circle after this battle, to the death, retake your station” Seidman ordered the man who nodded “you will control point defence and tertiary armaments.” He said calmy demoting the primary crew to the conventional weapons allowing operations to continue. As this drama had continued in the CIC the Reaper shots slammed into the nose of the Kyushu II forcing it to change course. “Excellent work, open them with the secondary array!” He ordered as the Bulwark closed on its target the Naval Autocannons mounted in turrets behind the gauss rifle engaged the Kyushu which each tore holes in the Frigate’s port armour. “Helm turn us to port, Broadside guns on target!” As the ship passed its heavy naval autocannon array engaged lighting up the side of the Kyushu II, the Bulwark had the advantage over the other ship now causing disproportionate damage on their enemy.
“Pivot along the axis!” Seidman ordered “continue along course.”
“Pivoting to starboard” the helm officers replied the Bulwark began to turn while continuing along the same course.
“Targeting their engines” the gunners said Seidman allowed them to work. The Reaper fired again this time targeting the rear of the retreating Kyushu II, this time all three slugs slammed into the main engines of the enemy frigate one of the ship’s main engine nacelles stuttered out from the damage. In response from the Kyushu lasers and autocannons continued to slam into the heavily armoured hull of the Bulwark. While light for a Cruiser the Bulwark was built around a reinforced core and had heavier armour plating than most ships of its size and it absorbed the damage.
“Helm main engine burn, kill our momentum and keep us in range.”
“Aff Admiral” the helmsman responded at the rear of the Bulwark the ships massive engines ignited once more cutting the reverse velocity of the Cruiser as it did the weapons array continued to blaze away at the rear of the Draconis Combine vessel shredding its rear armour and the remaining engine nacelles, from the Bulwark’s he could tell there was a hull breach.
“Comms, give me direct contact with the target, continue attack aim to disable them in their entirety.” He ordered moments later the crewman at comms sent his console a message to say he was connected.
“Bulwark Actual to Draconis Combine Cruiser, your engines are disabled, our sensors can see your hull is breached. Cease defence fire, heave to and prepare to be boarded, I Andreas Seidman, claim your ship, its crew and cargo as Isorla for Clan Hell’s Horses.”
“No, you cannot have this vessel!” The ship’s commander replied
“Then prepare to be boarded!” He replied “deploy assault shuttles to target.” He commanded watching the heavily damaged frigate begin to spiral out of control having its main engines being disabled. Soon from the Halcyon ten Pelican-class Small Craft headed over to the Kyushu and deposited several stars worth of Elementals and conventional marines.
Watching on the Holo-tank Seidman noticed that the Bulwark had slowed to a stop and was beginning to accelerate forwards again “Helm, bring us alongside them but keep enough distance that should their core explode, we will be minimally harmed.”
“Star Admiral, this is Star Captain Cooper heavy resistance being encountered however we have reached the cargo bay and we have confirmed that the cargo is intact as the Watch suggested it would be.” One of the Elementals confirmed “we are blasting clear the cargo bay doors and will eject them from the Mechbays before the defenders try something rash.”
“Aff Star Captain Cooper, well done Pelicans are in place for recovery.” He responded “deploy second and third Pelican stars for recovery operations lets secure as many of these machines as we can.” The Watch had said they had intelligence that the Land-Air-Mechs onboard the Kyushu II based in the Irece system did not have pilots and that the ship was being used as a transport for moving the units across the Draconis Combine and now the Hell’s Horses would be salvaging as many of them as they could. “Contact the Khan and inform her mission accomplished.”
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On the ground near the LexaTech Industries the Khan’s forces pushed heavily against the Draconis Combine defenders while they were not near to controlling the facility her people had fought well so far. News that the Frigate in orbit had been disabled and that the Horses were salvaging the LAM cargo on-board. Like the Frigate the ground defenders had refused a batchall and now instead of an honourable Trial of Possession this was a grinding raid.
“Khan Cooper” one of her warriors call for her attention.
“Report” she ordered from her Gnome Battle Armour suit.
“We have broken into the barracks; we have confirmed there are eighty engineers and their families present.” The Elemental reported
“Good evacuate them”
“The engineers are resisting leaving their factories, we could execute them?”
“Neg, we need the engineer’s cooperation. Tell them we will take them all if they agree to cooperate with us.” She stated activating her suit’s communication system “Star Admiral Seidman I need three of the Pelicans to be redeployed to the surface.” She commanded “yes, I understand that Admiral but this is just as important, do it. We will hold until they arrive.”
On the ground the Horses held their ground as the Khan had promised but it came at a cost more than half of the Khan’s troops had been killed in the fighting and the Khan herself severely injured with her left arm severed at the shoulder by enemy fire. The three Pelicans flew through the continued fighting to evacuate the recently captured engineers and their families which were immediately evacuated to the Bulwark. On the ground the Hell’s Horses attempted to pull back but the Draconis Combine defenders would not let them go.
“Cooper to Bulwark, this will be my final transmission” Teresia Cooper said into a communication link from her medical bed onboard a combat vehicle. “When our Pelican’s arrive, you are to leave this system and return home. My forces have fought bravely but we cannot win the day. Our mission today was to secure the future of Clan Hell’s Horses and we have succeeded. You have the blueprints adapt them to our great work and continue the STAMPEDE!” She commanded as her forces continued to battle. In all three Clusters of Horses personnel, equipment and their Khan are lost on Irece as they are surrounded and pounded by the Draconis Combine defences. The LexaTech Industries facility survives damaged but intact with the personnel losses discovered after the fighting was over. Meanwhile the Bulwark is able to slip through Draconis Combine naval units and is not seen again within the Succession State’s territory.
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Forensic Examination
SAFE Military Complex, Atreus
District of Mark, Free Worlds League
9th August 3120
Following months of work SAFE scientists finish their analysis of armour fragments recovered from the Battle/Occupation of Sierra. While the armour is similar to modern ferro-fibrous armour there were chemical components that were no longer used by known manufacturers. This results in the SAFE analysers believing that the armour was of Star League-era origin meaning it was likely that someone had discovered a sizable Star League cache. In an attempt to discover how extensive the cache was the FWLM authorise scouting missions into the near peripheral region.
Trial of Possession
Adrian, Bryceland PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
12th August 3120
In a move which is similar to that taken by Clan Nova Cat in pervious encounters with the Federated Suns a Snow Raven raiding party declare a Trial of Possession for the system of Adrian in the Draconis March challenging the leadership of the inhabited world directly. With only militia troops defending the world the leaders accept this with one caveat… like worlds which had faced the Nova Cat advance the leadership of Adrian request that anyone who wishes to leave can leave. The Seventeenth Raven Swoop Cluster’s commander Star Colonel Johannes Snow Raven accepts these terms and his unit make landfall.
Facing the Ravens with honour the Adrian Draconis March Militia fight capability and destroy three trinaries of Snow Raven warriors before being forced to surrender. This results in the Snow Ravens absorbing the remains of the Militia force taking every survivor as a bondsman. Because of the “honour” which the people of Adrian gave the Snow Ravens and the lack of any sort of resistance movement the Snow Ravens choose to fully honour the request to allow anyone who wishes to leave are allowed to leave.
In the following weeks several hundred personnel leave the system of Adrian with Federated Suns civilian ships allowed access to the system. This actually acts as quite a boon for the Federated Suns with traders able to open lines of communication with Snow Raven traders and of course the Department of Military Intelligence (DMI) are able to use these evacuations as cover for inserting agents into the Raven Alliance. During one such insertion the DMI agents actually leave Adrian almost as soon as they have arrived due to a sighting in orbit over the world of the Snow Raven’s newest WarShip the Krasin which is a Svalinn-class Light Cruiser. Due to the Federated Suns lacking information on this particular class the DMI agents use this opportunity to document as much as they can about the WarShip class and return it to the Federated Suns.
From analysis of passive sensors and visual pictures taken of the WarShip the DMI believe that the WarShip is roughly between five hundred and nine hundred thousand tons in weight, it appears to be over five hundred metres in length, it has large naval and standard weapon arrays, there are at least three DropShip collars and that the ship carries aerospace fighters. Unfortunately, none of the civilian DropShip commanders are willing to lock active sensors on the Svalinn so no concrete information is gathered.
Trade Delegation
Free Flight, Fletcher
Oriente Administrative Area, Magistracy of Canopus
24th August 3120
Under the escort of the Streaking Mist, Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, a single Overlord C-class DropShip approached the Free Light shipyards in the Fletcher system. The DropShip had requested to dock with the shipyards while the WarShip remained at maximum weapons range guarded by Magistracy of Canopus flagged vessels.
No inside the shipyard a Smoke Jaguar Star Colonel a striking dark-skinned man with a completely shaved head, his face scarred on the left wide with his left eye completely concealed by an eye patch which appeared to be attached to his skull. The Star Colonel under escort by two Battle Armoured Elemental warriors he was led to a conference room on one of the station’s gravity decks. The room was spartan saved for a large conference table, seven comfortable chairs and six massive screens which dominated the wall which would face to the outside of the station. While he waited the Star Colonel was left with an image of the Streaking Mist the Black Lion had been returned to full capability its rounded armour and imposing turrets were superior to anything else in the area.
Joining the Smoke Jaguar Star Colonel was a long red-haired woman wearing a body hugging green and gold coloured dress. “Welcome to Free Flight I am Director Amanda White and you are?” She greeted the Star Colonel with a broad smile.
“I am Star Colonel Alister of Clan Smoke Jaguar and the District of Lesnovo of the Free Worlds League.”
“A pleasure to meet you Star Colonel, how can we be of assistance? You WarShip” she said indicating to the screens behind the Star Colonel as she took one of the chairs around the table “appears to be in good repair.”
“Aff, the Streaking Mist is here only as an escort.” He explained “there are no plans for her weapons to be used, none of our warriors should be needed for this mission.”
“I am very glad to hear that” she replied as she sat down.
“We are here to discuss our agreement with Free Flight and how it has been effected by the change in ownership of this system.” He said staring at her as she opened a folder.
“Ah yes, the District of Lesnovo and by extension Clan Smoke Jaguar made an agreement with the Free Flight company for three Monolisk-class Destroyers.”
“Jaguar’s Grace, Jaguar’s Determination, Jaguar’s Dominion.” Alister said naming the vessels the Jaguars had contracted the shipyard to construct.
“Indeed, due to the change of control over this system from the now defunct District of Oriente to the Magistracy of Canopus that agreement is no longer viable.” She said getting straight to the point, “Free Flight production is slated for the Magistracy of Canopus and Capellan Confederation.” She explained
“That is unacceptable.” Alister replied “our agreement was made you cannot break it, we have provided you with weapons and equipment. Perhaps the Streaking Mist will be needed…” he said allowing his voice to trail off.
“We have WarShips of our own…”
“Yes, three in the Oriente system, none within range of the jump point.” He replied showing the Smoke Jaguars had intelligence on them. Streaking Mist’s weapons are currently in range of this space station.” He said levelling the ultimatum, even at maximum range the capital weapons of the Battle-cruiser could obliterate a stationary target in minutes.
“Then there would be no chance of gaining your WarShips, the best way would be if we came to a new agreement that both of our peoples can agree on.” She said Alister sat there silently for several moments. “It is not the fault of Free Flight that the District of Oriente could not protect its assets.”
“Of course not” Alister agreed, it was the same in the Clans territory when Clans won Trials of Possession over worlds and facilities. “What is it that the Capellan… Magistracy of Canopus are looking for?” He said intentionally dropping that the Jaguars were well aware of Capellan Confederation influence.
“While the Capellans do influence things here" she said accepting his suspicion. "The Magistracy of Canopus do control the fate of the three Monolisk-class Destroyers to the District of Lesnovo. Now, we do not want a conflict with your district or the wider Free Worlds League which would happen if Clan Smoke Jaguar attacked a Magistracy of Canopus facility. Don’t you agree?”
“Aff” he agreed “What is it that the Magistracy of Canopus wants?”
“There is a salient of systems the District of Lesnovo control into Magistracy of Canopus territory. A cost of building a WarShip is roughly worth the GDP of a prosperous system. We are not saying those worlds are all prosperous but we are willing to take control over five systems for the WarShips your district require.”
“Three systems for three WarShips…” Alister suggested
“Four is as low as Canopus and Sian would agree to.”
“Blood was spilled for those systems…” Alister suggested
“Blood on both sides” Amanda countered sternly “we are giving you weapons that could be turned against us in a future conflict. We will require a minimum of four systems. And of course the previous resources which were agreed to be traded must be honoured.” She explained, she knew she had these wannabe Clansmen over a barrel and she intended on making them pay.
“I will have to confirm the trade of territory for WarShips with Lesnovo before any moves can be made.” Alister suggested standing up, Amanda White did the same.
“Of course, Star Colonel, in the meantime Free Flight will continue to construct the three vessels which we are still working on.”
“We will be in touch” he said without further discussion Star Colonel Alister and the Smoke Jaguars left the station and then the system further. Within a week of the meeting Lesnovo and Canopus officially agree to transfer the systems of Saonara, Rushkegg, Rohinjan and Payvand to Magistracy control while the production of the WarShips for Clan Smoke Jaguar would continue.
Negotiations
Lost World, Aurigan Collective
Periphery
30th August 3120
The arrival of the FSS Melissa Davion II, an Avalon II-class Cruiser, in the Aurigan Collective had caused quite a stir but the ship was not there to cause war, instead it was just a very flashy, very expensive taxi craft for three members of the Federated-Boeing Board of Directors who wished to speak to the owners/commander of the Argo which was currently assigned to the First Ramparts regiment. The Argo was a unique DropShip designed before the First Succession War by the Federated-Boeing company. While it was a DropShip in classification it was actually more like a mobile space station capable of docking with other DropShips and acting as a command base of operations.
Onboard the ship the crew had been met with the executives in one of the meeting rooms. While the Argo was a stationary as it was now the DropShip was able to deploy its other unique feature, a gravity deck like those found on WarShips, JumpShips and true space stations. On the Argo the crew used the gravity deck spaces as crew quarters, mess hall, briefing, kitchen and gym areas, places that would benefit all the crew and passengers so the briefing area was now their meeting area.
“Captain Rhys, this ship is truly a marvel of engineering” Executive Senni Kotka said glancing around the compact briefing room, they really do not make them like this anymore. Kotka was a tall olive-skinned man wearing a business suite said smiling broadly at Captain Glain Rhys a large white man with bulging arms and a white tank top. He was a seasoned commander and warrior.
“Yet they do make them like that either” Colonel Karen Andris said pressing her remote-control button once activating the briefing room’s three-foot wide holo-tank which displayed an image of the Avalon II-class Cruiser which had carried them here. “It’s strange how humanity can quickly return to build weapons of war but this ship… this ship which could have so many more applications is forgotten.” She said Andris had been with the unit since its inception and since they had discovered the Argo. A seasoned MechWarrior she knew the importance of the Argo to the Ramparts and to the Aurigan Collective.
“Exactly” Kotka agreed “we want to reproduce this ship so future generations can benefit from its capabilities.”
“You’re nae getting my ship” Rhys stated in his broad accent he was originally from a small hamlet on Argyle in the Federated Suns, one of the reasons that he’d agreed to this meeting he still missed home every now and then, seeing people from the Federated Suns made a difference. The command capabilities of the Argo were second to none and the Ramparts had benefited from it time and time again.
“We would compensate you for your loss considerably.” The second executive said, they had said their name but Glain Rhys had forgotten the name already.
“This ship was legitimate salvage. She is my home…”
“Our home” Darius Oliveira added, he was ten years younger than his commander the two of them had served together for years in several occupations.
“This ship is an integral part of the First Rampart. This is more than a base of operations for us” she said glancing at Glain smirking “its home for all of us. Even though The Ramparts have grown beyond its capabilities of holding us, it is still part of our unit.”
“We can provide you with a state-of-the-art Conquistador-class DropShip as a replacement.”
“You hiv got to be jokin’ me, right?” Rhys asked chuckling “you want to give me an assault ship? This is a command vessel, she is designed to be a base of operations, she is home.”
“The Conquistador is more than an assault ship; you can command armies from her.” Kotka responded.
“Not in this same way as this beauty” Oliveira responded “out here in the black we don’t have the resources for something like that” he said pointing towards the holo-image of the Avalon II. “Your assault ship isn’t needed out here, this” he said raising his hands “this is what we need out here.”
“You see there isn’t anything you can offer us that would really make a difference” Andris said “we have what we need in this ship and her crew.” She said glancing again at Glain who nodded in response.
“There it is you cannot have her, if you want to learn about this ship instead of pulling her to pieces, perhaps a team could remain onboard. Three or four people, observe how she operates for a few months.”
“And what payment would you want for this?” Kotka asked “we couldn’t give you DropShips in return for study time.”
“The Aurigan Collective is allowed to bid to buy future Argo-class vessels should Federated-Boeing into production” Karen Andris said thinking of the wider Collective. “It doesn’t get hidden behind Federated Suns legislation.
“Agreed, it can be written down that the Aurigan Collective is a preferred customer, with no trade restrictions.” He promised showing Federated-Boeing’s commitment.
“And… the supplies to upgrade a regiment of troops to lostech standards.” Rhys said allowing the Collective to buy future examples of the DropShip was small fry, the real price would be to pay for upgrading the Collective’s equipment.
“That can be done.”
“It’ll cost you that much for the board of our new passengers” Oliveira joked which broke the tension which was building up. “Allow this to be the start of a great partnership.” The Federated-Boeing wanted to produce the Argo-class for Regimental Combat Teams back in the Federated Suns, mobile bases which could be placed in orbit giving ground forces additional views of a battlefield. But they also wanted to trade the design to exploration groups which had approached them over the last few months and potentially to other customers, agreeing to trade to the Aurigan Collective was an easy task making them one of the first tiers in those allowed to buy the DropShip was a small compromise in the grander plan. The weapons and equipment provided would boost Aurigan power and hopefully raise feelings about the Federated Suns in the area as well so yet another potential win for Federated-Boeing.
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Whose lurking around in the Periphery? That's always a great question to keep dangling in any Battletech story.
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New spin off story
https://obtforum.com/forum/stories/triple-zeros-answering-the-call-au-with-thanks-story/ (https://obtforum.com/forum/stories/triple-zeros-answering-the-call-au-with-thanks-story/)
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Nice, I'll take a look.